Christmas in January 2020

Christmas in January The UK’s only Christmas decoration trade magazine

Hall A Stand A08 & A40 Glass Baubles - Tinsel Garlands – Snowglobes - LED Wooden villages Christmas Crafts - Home Decoration – Lanterns - Artificial Snow – Logo Baubles Extensive Range of Mango Wood Products.

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Harrogate Christmas and Gift Fair.

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Eight halls of Christmas Hall C

Hall A

Hall Q

A37

CGB Giftware

C2

Anglo American Distributors Ltd.

Q12

Artcuts Ltd

A1

Christmas in January

C6

Archipelago

Q11

Blue Roo Imports Ltd

A39

Emagination Store

C24

Bailey & Brooke

Q10

Calico Cottage

A29

Florelle Import Co.

C25

Bollywood Christmas

Q2

Charles Taylor

A34

Global Journey Ltd

C20

Casdon Toys

Q32

CK SUPPLIES

A38

I E P Wholesale

C17

DCUK

Q41

D & J Glassware

A16

Jeno Floral Imports

C4

Fair to Trade Ltd.

A9, A22

Leisuregrow Products Ltd (NOMA)

Q18

C5

Felt so good

Gaeltag Keltika Ltd.

Q48

Heathside Trading

A25

Lemax Europe BV

C1

Festive Productions Ltd.

Q50

Khan Trading Company

A6

Lesser & Pavey Ltd.

C21, C27

Heaven Sends

Q37

Labelling-Solutions

C3

Heyland & Whittle

Q28

Manchester Asset Management Ltd

C26

House Of Marbles

Q21

N. Smith & Co Ltd

C19

Joe Davies Ltd

Q20

Pets Love Scruffs

C18

Lotus Imports Ltd.

Q40

Price Hunter International Ltd

C22

Puleo Asia Ltd.

Q30

RTC Direct Ltd

C10

Sass & Belle

Q43

Sandal Tekstil Aksesuar IC Dis ve tic Ltd. Sti

C3a

Sparkle and Light Ltd.

Q1

Smart Garden Products Ltd

C41

The Straits Trading Company Ltd

Q19

Stands Out Ltd

A26

Low's

A5

Padgett Brothers AtoZ

A4

Richard Lang & Son Ltd

A8, A40

Riffelmacher & Weinberger GmbH & Co KG

A18

Sincere UK Ltd.

A36

Suki Gifts Interantional Ltd

A30

The Giftware Trading Company

A2

The Milford Collection

A3

The Satchville Gift Company

A35

Walton & Co Ltd.

Hall B

Hall D D16

Apollo Gardening Ltd

D1

BALTUS CANDLES

D8

Evexmas

D5

Florist Supplies UK Ltd.

D2

Keel Toys Ltd

D19

Snowtime

D12

Tallon International Ltd.

D17

XYSTOS

B18

Adobe

B11

Art Marketing

B21

Brink Nordic ApS

B8

Christmas Inspirations Bv

B5

Davies Products (Liverpool) Ltd.

B22

Deva Designs Ltd

B2, B9

Floralsilk Ltd.

Hall H

B25

FREEDOM Juniors s.r.o.

H1

Premier Decorations Ltd.

B16

HELLMANN - VERSAND GmbH

H2

Premier Halloween

B6

History & Heraldry

B1

Hogewoning B.V

B12

Home Deco London Ltd

B10

Hall M Ascalon Design Ltd.

Majestic Designs

M24

Culinary Concepts

B15

National Tree Company

M27

B13

PolarX Ornament & Gift

FDL Festive Decoration & Lighting Ltd.

B14

RSW International Ltd.

M14, M16

Gisela Graham Ltd.

B4

Shatchi

M2

Hamac Trading Co

B3

Sifcon International Plc

M1

Kaemingk BV

B20

The Kilted Christmas Tree Company

M22

Konstsmide (UK) Ltd.

B13a B19 B7

The Winter Workshop

M26

Luxa Flamelighting

M6

Sagedecor

M28

Weiste

Widdop Bingham & Co Ltd

Terra Rossa

Q15

The Festive House

Q22

The Playwrite Group Plc

Q36

TREND MANIA LTD

Q6

Twinkly

Q39

United Brands Ltd

Q23

Wombat Retail

Q24

Wot Evry1 Wants Ltd

Q25

Zidac Laboratories Ltd

Queen Suite Foyer

M12

Tildenet Gardenware Ltd

Q38

QS1, QS02

Fountasia International Ltd

QS1

Vivid Arts Ltd.

s

Harrogate Christm

12th to 15th January 2020 Harrogate 9am - 6pm Sunday - Tuesday, 9am -

ristmas & Gift

arrogate International Centre y, 9am - 4pm Wednesday

FEATURES

Leader page

7

News

8,10

Coffee Break With Simon Joy of Culinary Concepts

10

GCA News A blooming good year

12

Step Back in Time

14

Catch-up with the HTA

16

Shop Talk with a Number of Retailers

18

All about the experience Christmasworld, Frankfurt

24

All about the New Spring Fair latest

26

Going Silver at Seventy Harrogate’s still young at heart

30

A selection of new products to Be seen at the show

50,77

RETAIL Dobbie’s creative manager Ian Mitchell Is interviewed by CIJ’s Editor Sarah Welsh

28

Phylip Mullan-Reid of Scotland’s Sterling 58 Furniture Chain is head of Visual Merchandising and is Interviewed by Sarah Welsh

31st YEAR OF PUBLICATION Publisher: Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk Sales: Marian McNamara marian@lemapublishing.co.uk Features Editor:

A season of giving & sharing 32 The 2020 Christmas Collection From Kaemingk

Sarah Welsh

Production Director: Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk Layout: Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk Circulation: Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

Published by: Lema Publishing Ltd 1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts.

HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930 Fax: 01442 289950 Email: info@lemapublishing.co.uk k

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J

Christmas is crazy, but I Wouldn’t have it any other way Giftware Trading’s Ben Jeffrey

34

A Christmas range to suite all tastes I visit Hiran & Hemal Patel of Shatchi

36

Creating a sustainable Christmas Keel Toys bring us up-to-date

40

Christmas Icons Piers Croke of Gisela Graham gives Our readers a history lesson

42

Festive Wonderland from Tallon

44

Be Inspired, Be Different Riffelmacher are fast becoming One of the leading Christmas suppliers In the U.K. and Ireland

46

Another Blooming Christmas Floralsilk’s latest take on Christmas

52

Noma’s seven years of growth We interview Noma’s Frank Kapinski

54

A Christmas selection box to Smile about 100’s of fresh new lines from Joe Davies

56

FDL Quality, cost and innovation from FDL

60

Soap Creation Heyland & Whittle give us a History lesson on soap making and of course speak about their own soap-making business

63

Pounds not Percentages Richard Jerrom Konstsmide’s U.K. M.D. tells it like it is!

66

Unwrapping a new look For Christmas Family business Davies Products have a new look

68

Lang’s at Christmas Richard Lang have some festive goodies to show you!

70

A Culinary Christmas Culinary Christmas have seen their Christmas Collection go from strength to strength

72

A Smart Garden Christmas We catch up with their M.D. Jonathan Stobart to find more

76

Two decades of innovative Illumination Festive Lights are celebrating 20 Years in the business

78

Jingles all the way One of the fastest-growing Christmas suppliers in the U.K.

79

The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

Contents

REGULARS

Leader C

an it really be 70 years ago that Harrogate in January first opened its doors to the toy trade that even back in 1950 included a number of tinsel-type Christmas products as well as baubles and no doubt a few lights.

Throughout their history along with a number of name changes the Directors of the show have always endeavoured to make Harrogate not only the first show of the New Year, but also a most friendly show for both the exhibitor and the visitor.

Back in those early years, you could almost always count on snow, that would not only see car drivers suffering some hairy moments, but also the local buses skidding all over the place, endangering life and limb for the hardy exhibitors and visitors.

“We shall once again be in our usual position just inside Hall ‘A’ and look forward to meeting everyone as usual” Perhaps to illustrate how the social scene has changed, Harrogate was a six day show with official dinners and functions almost every night. Tuesday was the Organisers ‘do’ at the Royal Hall. Busloads of the local nurses from Leeds would come in and perhaps appropriately with the success of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ there was always a ballroom dancing show, not featuring Anton du Beke of course, but the then current World Champions giving us all a demonstration of how it should be done.

The Wholesalers association, the Toy Importers and of course the Fence Club all ran official dinners along with a number of the larger companies such as Waddingtons organizing a fantastic night out.

I digress!

Moving on to 2020, the show is housed in modern exhibition halls, which compared to the use of all the local hotels in bygone years is a Godsend, so there is much to look forward

to. The show is full and as you will find in the 80 pages of this year’s edition, plenty of fantastic new products to whet the appetites of even the most demanding of buyers.

Sales for the industry in 2019 I believe have been tough for everyone. The uncertainty of Brexit, the then looming General Election all played their part in affecting sales. With the Pound at almost an all-time low, suppliers have had to pay more for their products, although talking to many of you, deliveries have been pretty good in the main. One company bucking the trend is Giftware Trading. M.D. Ben Jeffery told me “It is the best Christmas to date. We brought in our deliveries much earlier than last year, which really worked well for us , leading to increased sales.”

With the Election over and Boris with the biggest majority since Maggie’s golden era, at least Brexit will be well on the way to being finalized and whether you voted ‘for’ or ‘against’,’, at least many of our M.P’s who prevaricated and almost most paralysed Parliamentt can do no more.

The show has a number of first-time exhibitors including Christmas Inspirations onss from Holland, who are exhibiting one off America’s largest suppliers ppli pp liier es Kurt Adler. On the many man any any occasions that I havee vi visited visi site si ted te d America and I always ys call in n at several of their specialist eecc ecialist all-year-round Christmas stm mas shops, Kurt Adler almost most dominate a number of tthe he he main categories of C Christmas. hrist hr hri istmas is They are showing on B.8.

I’m also pleased to welcome back, after a gap of a few years F.D.L. they are showing in Hall ‘M’ stand M27.

The editorial content gives the reader an early ‘in’ to what they can expect to see when they arrive in town This year we have added a number of ‘Question and Answer’ articles that has seen our Editor Sarah Welsh kept very busy.

Our two retail interviews are with Dobbies, who in April acquired 31 Whyvale Stores, their Creative Manager Ian Mitchell tells all.

The second interview moves up to Scotland to interview Phylip Mullan-Read of the Sterling Furniture store group. They have eight stores in Scotland and Ian tells us that he adores Christmas. Ian emailed me earlier this year to say that he always looked forward to reading Christmas in January and would we consider interviewing him for our next edition. Turn to page 58 to find out more.

Our ‘Coffee Break’ interview on page 10 features Simon Joy of Culinary Concepts, a company creating quite a buzz with their quirky Christmas offerings. 2020 sees their biggest range yet.

To celebrate the show’s 70th year, the Organisers will be holding a drinks event on either the Sunday or Monday after the show sh and our front co cover advertiser Riffelmacher will be el inviting customers invi old and new to their stand in Hall ‘A’ on the t Sunday evening from e five onwards for some so sparkling German cheer and Ger nibbles. nibbles Finally, learning of the using Glitter in th he ban ban on u ba Christmas products such Chri Ch rist stm maas p as a snow snoow globes and lanterns, lant la ntterrn I understand that this was that iinitially ni ni driven driv dri dr iven by schools iven and later laate taken up by the ‘Green’ lobby. Evidently, Glitter is not biodegradable, but come on, is glitter that is encased in these products really a threat to our planet – Get a life for Christ’s sake!

We shall once again be in our usual position just inside Hall ‘A’ and look forward to meeting everyone as usual. For those exhibitors at Spring Fair, it is not too late to be included in our Christmas in February edition with both advertising and editorial space. christmas in january 7

NEWS

Nick Chrispin – Head of National Accounts Premier Decorations have recently made a significant restructure of their Sales Department.

Nick Chrispin has been promoted to the position of Head of National Accounts. In his new role, Nick is taking on responsibility for Managing a team of three National Account Managers.

The team has been further strengthened in the Autumn with the appointments of Shirley Dawson and Andy Lamb as National Account Managers, who both joined Premier with excellent previous seasonal experience.

This move is not only recognition of Nick’s contribution over his seven years with Premier, but also takes into consideration the rapidly changing Retail Market. The move will strengthen the team and our ability to satisfy customer requirements more effectively. Nick will continue to report to Rolf Hunt, Premier’s National Sales Manager, who has relinquished his previous National Account responsibilities, in order to concentrate his efforts developing Premier’s Sales strategies and in managing Premier’s ten Sales Account Managers to further support and grow our Independent and Export business.

Davies Products unveils a new look for Christmas All Davies Products wants for Christmas this year is to showcase its sleek, updated new branding across its entire range.

The Liverpool-based family business, now being run by the third generation of the Davies brood, has harmonised the branding across its product portfolio, with a simple, monochrome theme, making it simple for their many customers to mix and match.

The new look has proved a big hit with Davies Products’ customer base, who love that they can now select from many different ranges and seasons to maximise sales and create their own individual themes.

“The simple design emphasises our heritage – as a family business we are proud of the reputation built over three generations since 1947,” Gemma Davies says.

“Come and see our fabulous new ranges at Harrogate Hall B, Stand 5! We have hundreds of new items to delight you – featuring inspirational themes, on-trend colours and classic Christmas essentials. All with our unbeatable combination of quality and value.”

8 christmas in january

News.indd 1

20/12/2019 15:34

Lighting specialists… not generalists

Harrogate Christmas Show: Hall A – Stand A9 / A22 www.noma.co.uk PART OF THE LEISUREGROW GROUP

NEWS

Coffee Break CiJ had a coffee with Simon Joy from Culinary Concepts You have shown at Harrogate Christmas & Gift for a few years now, so I assume the show gives you an early window of opportunity to show off your new ranges?

Yes it gives us the perfect opportunity to do this whilst Christmas sales are still in the buyers minds.

Your Christmas offering has grown over the last few years, what should buyers look out for particularly at Harrogate?

We have a whole host of new products building on the success of our stag range for example and also our statement Christmas decorations and barware ranges Would you say that Culinary Concept’s products are at the top end of the Seasonal product ranges on offer at Harrogate?

There is something to suit everybody’s budget , for sure we have found buyers being very attracted to our statement pieces which sell strongly for them but also the smaller and lower price point lines like our candle jewellery Of course, quite a few buyers at Harrogate continue to use their existing suppliers, but I believe many of them are looking for new and exciting companies to enhance their Christmas Buying. Please tell me why they should call on your stand.

With over 300 new lines launching at Harrogate we think we offer something to suit all budgets , we are well known for our quirky lines so if you are looking for something a little different next sure to come and see us. We will also have a number of show offers Exclusive to the show.

The Unstoppable Rise of Elf Pranking Our readers should be aware of just how well the PMS Elves Behavin Badly has caught the imagination of the Public. You will be able to see for yourselves when you visit their stand at Spring Fair.

Since the phenelfmenal success of the Louis Walsh 2018 Christmas campaign, the Elves strange persuasion for being naughty and pranking has rapidly expanded into the new “older kids” market with 16-60 year olds now pranking their adult family, friends and neighbours and most of all their colleagues at work. These cheeky, likeable and very naughty pranksters have captured the imagination of an unprecedented wide age group from toddlers to wobblers. Kids and older kids all love a prank.

In the privacy of adult places of work some of the pranks can be a little XXX but no matter how these cheeky, big eared Elves are posed in amusing, embarrassing and compromising positions the cheeky, happy faces stay with the Elves and all those that participate in serious “prank making”.

With more than 5 million dolls now sold in the UK the Elf “Prank Month” of December is here to stay.

Creative light humorous relief is the order of the month for December. The internet is awash with creative and humorous kids and adults pranks. December is truly the Elves Behavin’ Badly month of fun.

PMS, the distributors of the naughty Elves offer a wide range of Elf Doll choices including poseable Elves and Elves with 14 electronic sounds from laughter to giggling and to some rather unpleasant sounds.

PMS also offer a super range of over 100 accessories for dressing up the Elves and to serve as props to assist in the Elves pranking escapades.

Kids of all ages can’t wait to encounter the next prank.

POS material and Display Units are available to promote sales.

Christmas 2018 saw Louis Walsh promote a tear jerking “Help an Elf at Christmas” campaign. Christmas 2019 saw Joey Essex promote the “Prank your Colleagues at Work”. The celebrity leading role for the 2020 prankster of the year is being kept closely under wraps.

Riffelmacher Welcomes Jason Hardwick to the team Riffelmacher are very pleased to announce that Jason Hardwick has joined the ever expanding Sales Team. Jason is a very well known and respected figure in the Garden centre industry particularly in the South of the UK. Export Manager John King welcomes Jason to the team and looks forward to working with him.

10 christmas in january

Innovative decorative lighting since 1939

Harrogate Christmas Show: Hall A â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stand A9 / A22 www.noma.co.uk PART OF THE LEISUREGROW GROUP

GCA NEWS

A Blooming Good Year!

It’s been a hectic year as usual for the GCA, challenging and hugely rewarding in equal measure. Just don’t ask about the weather! Chief Executive Iain Wylie takes a look back at 2019.

They say that if you’re stuck for something to chat about, the weather is always a safe bet – and it has certainly been something those involved in the garden centre trade can rely on this year. Although not always in a good way.

Last year I began this article talking about the challenges Garden Centre Association members had faced throughout 2018, namely Brexit and the weather, leading to a year of ups and downs for the industry.

So, it seems rather fitting in some ways that I start this retrospective of 2019 by talking about how the same two issues have again posed us challenges – with an election thrown into the mix for good measure too.

Weather wise, 2019 was not the extremes of hot and cold of 2018 but more extremes of wet and dry but, taking the year as a whole, GCA garden centres had a good year - particularly for plants and at the end of the year Christmas was positive.

Autumn proved to be too wet for gardeners so perhaps they decided to give up and just enjoy Christmas instead.

Undoubtedly, they will be back again next spring – weather permitting of course!

The GCA was formed back in 1966 with our origins in the very roots of the garden centre movement, and while it might seem a cliché in this industry that we bang on about the weather so much, even with all the major economic and political events we’re currently seeing on both the national and international stage it still undoubtedly remains the biggest influence on our businesses for a large part of the year.

Diversification into areas such as catering and, of course, Christmas has helped to ‘weatherproof’ the industry to a certain extent, but then the other factors have the potential to assert a greater influence.

This doesn’t mean that garden centres can be complacent though, they must be fit for purpose, boast an attractive destination for the public and work hard to retain customers. The GCA can help with this through the many benefits it offers its members, not least through the inspection process, with every centre visited by an independent consultant each year to assess standards and highlight best practice. This in turn leads to great networking opportunities where members can share ideas and solve problems with like-minded garden centre operators.

12 christmas in january

With January now upon us, the GCA Conference will see delegates from around the country gather with their sights set firmly on a successful spring and in the process of determining next Christmas’s ranges.

The GCA Conference, this year taking place at Bristol’s Mercure Grand Hotel from Sunday, 26 January to Wednesday, 29 January, comes at the perfect time of year. It is an opportunity for retailers and suppliers to network, share experiences from the year before and plan with optimism for the year ahead.

This year the environment, sustainability and wellbeing will be high on the agenda as these important topics play an everincreasing part in our customers’ thoughts and our business strategies.

We will have presentations from our team of inspectors to emphasise the best practice within the GCA and share this with all our delegates, as well as the announcement of our competition and award winners. We also have a wide range of external speakers, all touching on our theme, helping members to fine tune their plans and preparations.

Sir Tim Smit, the founder of the Eden Project and Trewin Restorick, founder of the Hubub charity, will share their sustainability expertise and help delegates understand the issues we face ahead, not forgetting the opportunities for garden centres to showcase the positives as well - we do sell plants after all.

Following the great presentation, he made last year, Paul Mason will join us again to help us wade through the economy and recent political uncertainty, highlighting the bigger picture and what could lie ahead.

And we are also joined by former BBC Chief News Reporter and ‘war correspondent’, Kate Adie and finally, double Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes. Dame Kelly will not only talk about winning and success but also wellbeing, from the benefit of experience as a mental health advocate since retiring from sport.

Conference aside, there’s been lots going on at the GCA over the past 12 months too, and this is set to continue in the year ahead.

The GCA launched GROW – Garden Retail Online Workshops, seven years ago.

GROW is an innovative e-learning project to enable member businesses to train their

staff with high quality material, without the need for leaving the centres to attend expensive courses. This is a cost-effective way of improving product knowledge and customer service and GCA GROW continues to grow itself!

GCA GROW now has more than 13,000 employees at member centres learning from almost 100 subject modules, which include the topics of health and safety and food hygiene and a comprehensive Customer Service Programme, as well as the core gardening subjects.

The GCA ran two Rising Stars programmes in 2019; one covering catering, which was helped through the sponsorship of Creed Foodservice and the other covering core gardening, sponsored by Westland.

These programmes have been running for a number of years and are always well supported by member centres who nominate members of staff to join the programmes to help with their training and career development through a series of workshops and projects during the year.

As well as representing the garden retail sector in the UK, the GCA also has links to similar international bodies through membership of the International Garden Centre Association (IGCA). Back in September we had the privilege of organising this year’s International Congress in Windsor. The week-long trip was a fantastic success, with 240 delegates from 21 different countries travelling from around the world and visiting some of the best garden centres in the UK. There are a host of benefits available to GCA members; the ‘Barometer of Trade’ which is the most accurate and up to date picture of trading available, using the monthly sales figures from participating centres, our annual competitions and area meetings, to name just a few.

Above all, most of our members would agree, the greatest benefit is from sharing information and experiences with likeminded businesses and individuals. Wishing everyone a successful 2020! *For more information on the GCA, email: info@gca.org.uk or call: 0118 930 8918. Alternatively, please visit www.gca. org.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/ GardenCentreAssociation or follow the organisation on Twitter at www.twitter. com/GC_Association.

ChristInJan-ShatchiA4advert_Layout 1 11/12/2019 17:36 Page 1

Shatchi are delighted to announce our exciting and extensive new ranges of Trees, Lights, Fibre Optics, Room DĂŠcor and Gifts for 2020 Come and see us at: Harrogate Harrogate Fair Hall B, Stand B4 12 -15 Jan 2020

Birmingham Spring Fair NEC Hall 5, Stand C76 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; E77 2 - 6 Feb 2020

Feature Step Back In Time

Step back in time Malcolm Naish looks back to 1991, 2000, 2010 and 2015 January 1991

January 2010

I publish our first stand alone ‘Christmas in January’ magazine.

My opening ‘Leader’ page bangs on about the biggest problem that suppliers to the Christmas industry have is that buyers appear to be ha placing their orders far too late to p ensure deliveries in ample time for en October onwards display.

O With garden centres beginning to take over from gift and department ta sstores in the selling of Christmas decorations we visit Colin Roberts d garden centre Springtime in Crews g Hill, Enfield to interview him. An eight H and a half acre site Colin had devoted a 112,000sq. ft. to his Christmas display.

Well ahead of his time Colin told me “I W ssee Christmasworld as more than just a place to buy Christmas deocrations – we are offering an experience to the whole family. People feel almost as if w they have to pay to get in.”

One quote from Porth estimated the total Christmas market at around £115m at retail. I also included the fact that David Metcalfe – M.D. of TPS the then organisers of Spring Fair that he felt it would be a good idea for future shows to group the Christmas Decoration companies together all in one hall!

As they say, it came to pass!

With everyone suffering from the downturn in business in 2008/9, there seemed to be an air of cautious optimism as we approached 2010.

The Widmann company had been bought by Colin Roberts and Jack van Vliet and moved to Colin’s premises in Crews Hill.

I was very sorry to see Vernon Butler and Andrew Widman no longer involved.

Triflora become the first U.K. Christmas company to join Efsa, I hoped at the time that this might become a growing trend, but looking back they are still very much mainland European based.

Our favourite features Editor ian Jones visited Chaplins in Taunton, Somerset.

A new company comes to the U.K. – Cinter with showroom and offices in Cheshire A family business based in Holland, just 20 minutes from Schipol airport, they didn’t last that long in the U.K. sadly.

Christmas companies still going strong today that featured in 2000 include Premier, Snowtime, Puleo, Kaemingk, Konstsmide, Noma, National Tree, Morris May, Playwrite, and Robin Reed.

January 2000 The main topic of conversation with suppliers is the cost of containers. They faced big increases in 1999 and hints of a cartel operating that decided both prices and the number of ships bo bringing goods from China was also b hinted, but obviously not proved. hi Walmart had just taken over Asda and I put the point that will this a badly affect those current suppliers b to Asda. TLhis must have been the case as a few had already been c de-listed. Growth categories tor d 2000 seemed to be fibre optics and 2 outdoor lighting. o Premier Decorations raise £3,000 ffor the ‘Make a Wish’ charity when eight of their sales guys shaved off e ttheir hair, much to the delight of their Harrogate customers.

W We include an interview with ‘Focus Do It All’. With 210 stores across the U.K. and 7,000 staff they are important players in the Christmas market.Neil Banfield was their head buyer for Christmas and told us that seven new stores were ear-marked for 2000.

One of the most interesting articles were written by industry legend Bert Wood on his 44 years of attending the Harrogate show.

I must admit that today’s reps., and agents never had it so good!

Derek Culley the proprieter of Oaktree Nursery based in Warfield, Berks., was one of our interviewees. Average customer spend for Christmas was around £20.

14 christmas in january

January 2015 I am most impressed by John Athwal of Premier Decorations.

On his trip to China in September, John managed 26 flights within a 35 day trip. Says much for his staying power.

John King joins Riffelmacher after 25 years representing Krebs in the U.K.and has steadily increased the company’s share of the U.K. market.

Hayes Garden World are the subject of a two page feature.

Based in Ambleside, they have a fascinating history going back over 200 years, and Leane Coulson was the interviewee.

2015 sees my 50th consecutive visit to Harrogate and I reminesce about the good old days when the show ran for six days and I seemed able to network each evening until the early hours!

I comment that LED lights continue to grow the Christmas business as do fibre optics and batterydriven products .

Stand out this Christmas with

Come and see our sensational new ranges at:

Contact us:

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair 12th-15th January 2020 Stand B2/B9

sales@floralsilk.co.uk 01778 425 205 www.floralsilk.co.uk

Spring Fair 2nd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6th February 2020 Stand 6 D40-F41

Feature HTA NEWS

Cultivating Business The Horticultural Trade Association has been supporting its family of members for more than 100 years, and it’s had another profitable and busy year – as Sarah Welsh reports…

T

he roots of the HTA are all about supporting UK garden businesses – and cultivating retail opportunities alongside green-fingered entrepreneurs. That’s why the organisation is proud to count more than 1,500 retailers, growers, manufacturers and landscapers as members.

In fact, cultivating retail was the main focus of a conference event in Nottingham that took place in November, at which the HTA threw the industry spotlight on how garden centre and green businesses can stay ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainability, and also looked at the threats and myriad opportunities facing this evergrowing sector in the years ahead.

Environmental focus proved to be a core concern for the garden centre sector in 2019, alongside the growing importance of social media storytelling and customer experience – and there was also an exciting addition to the HTA team with a famous face who you will know from BBC Gardeners’ World and as a regular expert from Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time.

In September it was announced that well-known botanist Pippa Greenwood had been appointed as HTA Horticulture Manager. Pippa, whose previous roles involved running the Plant Pathology

department at RHS Wisley, will now play a key part of the grower, nursery and plant production committees and groups within the HTA, as well as providing horticultural and technical input across the organisation.

She will also be driving forward the Plant Health and Biosecurity Alliance.

HTA President Boyd DouglasDavies, commented: “This is a very different role for Pippa, but with her technical knowledge and strong media credentials, she’ll be well placed to ensure our grower members’ needs are met.”

Pippa added: “With such a vibrant UK horticulture industry, and recognising the importance that plants and gardening now play in our lives, I’m looking forward to bringing my skills and experience to this role.”

In terms of industry performance, according to the HTA’s annual market update, released in October, figures revealed that wet weather in September had dampened sales for the month, but in general terms all product categories were up on 2018 figures for year to date comparisons.

Martin Simmons, HTA Director of Membership, commented: “Despite losing ground in September, year on year comparisons show that garden centre sales have maintained strong growth. The rolling year to September 2019, compared to 2018, show that sales are up by nine per cent.”

Sustainability hit the headlines during National Recycle Week, which ran from 23 to 29 September, with the HTA calling for more local authorities to collect nonblack recyclable plant pots from kerbsides nation-wide. Research conducted by HTA found that by recycling plant pots an estimated 8,000 tonnes of rubbish could be diverted from landfill and recycled back into new-use pots.

James Clark, HTA Director of Policy and Communications, spoke at the RECOUP Plastics Recycling and Resources Conference in Peterborough to highlight the issue, outlining how the forwardthinking British horticulture industry has come together to move to using non-black polypropylene recyclable pots.

Finally, harnessing the power of storytelling and authenticity in social media were two key factors raised at the HTA Marketing Forum, which took place in midOctober at Chilton’s Horticulture House.

David Denny, HTA Futures and Sustainability Manager, spoke about new online tools which will enable businesses to target customers as never before, enabling retailers to gain deep insights into spending behaviour and habits. Julie Hall, from The School of Marketing, discussed how social media is all about building communities and engaging with your customers, which Simone Bonnett, from The Social Managers, focused on the importance of treating social media as your ‘shop window.’

The forum also highlighted the key importance of storytelling across all digital platforms, from podcasts to video content to blogs to channels.

The day was chaired by Ferndale Garden Centre, and director Neil Grant, also an HTA council rep, who commented: “Digital marketing plays a key role within an overall marketing strategy and we all need to embrace it within our businesses. As an industry we have such great stories to tell – about our plants and our people, and we need to make time within our businesses to ensure we’re maximising the opportunity of the power of social, in all its forms.” *For more information on HTA visit: www.hta.org.uk

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20/12/2019 15:38

CHRISTMAS & GIFT FAIR Harrogate UK 12 – 15 January 2020

HALL M | STAND M1

SPRING FAIR

Birmingham UK 2 – 6 February 2020

HALL 6+7 | STAND 6F40-J41

NEW

LOCATION

at one of our fairs KAEMINGK.COM

Seasonal Home Christmas Lighting Glass ornaments & Tree trim Artificial Flowers & Plants Christmas Trees

Shop Talk

Shop Talk!

From novelty ornaments and animal themed baubles, to floristry pieces flying out the door. Three very different businesses gave Sarah Welsh the lowdown on their selling story of last Christmas…

Ione Gow, Owner, Appleton Christmas Barn, Appleton, Oxfordshire (www.appletonchristmasbarn.co.uk) When do you ‘open for business’ for Christmas?

We always open our doors on November 14th, after the buzz of Bonfire Night and once Remembrance Sunday has passed. 2019 was our 11th year of trading at the barn, having first established the business back in 2008 alongside our busy arable farm, and it was another good one. My husband David’s great grandfather sold Christmas trees on the farm and it’s something we’ve done ever since – firstly selling trees grown in our own woodland, and now buying them in as well.

What trends were popular last Christmas?

A big thing was novelty ornaments. They were incredibly popular with 20-something customers who look for an easy way to individualise their tree, make it quirky. It’s a fun way to decorate without being too traditional.

We had baubles shaped like pineapples and lemons, ones shaped like tools – including a drill and a hammer – champagne and tequila bottle decorations and even a burger in a bun!

I also bought a lot of felt decorations last year from suppliers Felt So Good and Amica, and we also sold a lot of dried fruit with Christmas scent, from a supplier called Jourmaepourri.

Pink was also a popular colour. Not bright pink, but the pastel shades inspired by the 1950. I remember the vintage pale pink decorations my grandmother used to hang on her tree, and that design inspiration from the past has been coming back in.

Real Christmas trees are big business for you at Appleton.

Which ones sell best?

On the farm we grow Nordmann Fir and Norway Spruce varieties, 18 christmas in january

and these are our best sellers, but we also sell quite a few others. We sell Alpine Firs and also Lodge Pole Pine trees, which are unusual because they have very long, thick pine needles.

We sell trees from opening, but they really start to fly out from the beginning of December. I think people are realising that real trees are actually environmentally friendly – for example, still absorbing carbon dioxide while in your house. They are cut, but more are grown and this means that plantations have better biodiversity. We also invited customers to bring their trees back to us last year, to be chipped and used in our woodland.

When does planning for Christmas start for you?

We’ll look through the trend booklets from Kaemingk and Premier, and then we head to Christmas & Gift in Harrogate to do a lot of our buying. What I love about the show is that is completely Christmas focused and the fact it attracts bespoke designers and suppliers – it means you can find something different.

We head to Spring Fair for Kaemingk.

In September we go back into the barn and deep clean it, and think about how the displays will be centred. We have limited space so I don’t dress trees, rather garlands – which is a tip I picked up from Gisela Graham. We are hoping to expand our floorspace this year though.

Are you personally a big fan of festive, despite it taking up so much of your working life?

Yes, I love Christmas. Running the barn and seeing the same customers come back year on year is lovely, it’s a great atmosphere.

I have to say we do let our two teenage girls do the decorating at home though!

Frances Kingham, Manager, Jacksons Boutique Garden Centre, Trelawnyd, Rhyl (www.jacksonsgardencentre.co.uk) How did you come to be the Christmas buyer for your business?

My grandfather Stanley Jackson founded the business and now my sister Emily and I are the third generation working here. I’ve been here for 17 years and I’ve been buying and dressing the shop for Christmas for five of those, alongside my mum Lorraine. She’s brilliant with visual merchandising, so has taught me a lot of her ‘tricks’ and we’ve since won several awards for our festive displays.

My dad Robert Kingham buys the lights and the Christmas trees, but everything else is down to us, and Emily looks after the gift side.

What’s your central focus when it comes to Christmas in store?

We like to give customers the wow factor and that’s why people come back here year after year with high expectations. We take quite a different approach to garden centres who use peg boards – we do a little of that but our displays are generally very visual and theatrical. We do take some ideas from the Christmas fairs, but we also glean inspiration from anywhere and everywhere throughout the year. This year we have a Christmas tree spinning around in the middle of the shop, but with a gazebo-style metal arch framing it, and that was an idea we picked up completely by chance!

What were your themes for Christmas 2019?

We had a popular ‘Red Velvet’ theme that combined pinks with other jungle-inspired colours. We included eclectic pieces such as frog and monkey ornaments and some of these sold out very quickly. It just goes to show that you can use anything in a festive display if the theme is well thought out!

We also had an industrial theme that also embraced nature, which combined black walls with brassy metal touches, light fittings and mirrors. At Jacksons we tend to bring home interior touches into our festive displays. Another popular theme was ‘Around the World’, with flamingos and tigers and Indian-inspired jewel tones, and we also took a traditional twist with ‘Country Christmas.’ This set had tartan wallpaper with big impact pieces such as elaborate candle holders.

Shop Talk

Rachel Gibbons, Shop Manager, Buckingham Garden Centre (www.buckinghamgardencentre.co.uk) Do you find it a challenge to ‘re-invent’ Christmas every year?

I’ve been at Buckingham Garden Centre in my current role for a little over 10 years, and you do have to refresh things every year because you need to show the customers something different – particularly if they are regular visitors. This year we completely changed our foyer display to be bigger and more impressive, to give that ‘wow’ factor. The concept was to elude to the colour and story themes in the Christmas shop, and it’s been very successful.

What colours and products sold well for you for Christmas 2019?

“A big trend for 2019 was novelty ornaments. They were incredibly popular with customers looking for an easy way to individualise their tree, make it quirky,” Ione Gow, Appleton Christmas Barn lanterns that light up and play music, and it was shocking how well they sold from the moment they went on display.

We also went with The Milford Collection, having been asked for seasonal pot pourri, and because they featured three times in the Garden Trade News top 50 sellers for 2018. We will definitely be going back to them for next year on a bigger scale.

Our best colour theme was blue and silver, and that’s been true in previous years which is why we re-introduced it. Our other colour themes were gold and champagne, candy cane – red, white and lime green, and woodland.

We put a particular emphasis on lighting for last Christmas, as it’s core to our offering and amounts to 20% of sales. I designed what I like to call a lighting barn, with the different types of lighting inside – and because it was darker in there it showed off the product to best effect, plus customers could also walk through it.

Floristry also did exceptionally well for us. We made up a table to look like a market stall, and many of the products sold through before December! We will be taking this idea a stage further for Christmas 2020 with a particular focus on natural picks and berries.

It gives us a first look at how all the suppliers’ themes are working and confirms our decisions for the following year.

I’ll also be going to the Festive showroom, where we move products around and sit them together so I can make sure we are offering lots of different textures and shapes in our themes.

This makes us different to everyone else, which is something we take pride in!

What are your favourite festive suppliers to work with?

What’s the aspect of Christmas you love the most on a personal level?

Festive has proved to be very successful for us this year. We always buy tinsel from them in many, many different colours!

We also worked with Transcontinental for the first time in 2019.

We didn’t have a big selection, choosing the bronze snow

I love my children’s reactions. We have Grace, four, and Emily, who turns three in February. I took a few days off to decorate our house and the pure joy on their faces as they saw all the lights and baubles is something I will remember forever.

“Our tree was up within in ten seconds of being placed in the stand, which for me is something of a record! All those past years of struggling uggling and fighting are now thankfully fully past.“ Jonathan Dellar

Why is Harrogate a mustattend show for your business?

Visit us at: Christmasworld Frankfurt Hall 9.0 · Stand B 20 office@krinner.com

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SF20 AD - Christmas 2020.indd 1

19/12/2019 12:16:16

PREVIEW Christmasworld

All About the Experience The leading global trade fair for seasonal and festive decoration is getting emotional about Christmas this year – and you’d be mad to miss it…

visitors promises to unwrap everything from a trend edit in Hall 11 that will educate and inform on upcoming colour, material and design fashions to the ‘Retail BLVD’ area in Galleria 0 – a ‘shopping street’ with innovative pop up stores where show-goers can gain inspiration from 20 point of sale 0 ts world 2ry presentations. a t S as nua ain And m n order to stand out owChristo 28 Jat am M orld. the retail h S hat: 24 t kfur asw in retail these days expertise m : n W t you need to forge a en Fra ris continues, Wh ere: w.ch t.com connection with your r h w u f w with professional W customer and deliver an nk b: We ssefra development sessions, in-store experience that has them e m specialist lectures and guided coming back for more – especially at tours, all taking place at the show, Christmas. under the heading of the ‘Christmasworld The key to a customer’s heart Academy.’ where festive product of any and all In terms of show layout, the new types is concerned, is encouraging them ‘Christmasworld concept’ that launched in to feel something, through clever visual 2019 has been rolled out and refined for this merchandising, convenience, quality of year, designed to make the show experience service and the breadth of range that you as inspiring as it is efficient for visitors, aided offer. Which is why the motto for the by the opportunity to make a circular tour of trends edit at Christmasworld 2020 – the the fair on the ‘0’ and ‘Via’ levels. leading international retail event focused on And all this located in one of Europe’s Christmas – is ‘family matters’, while the most beautiful cities, famed for its Christmas show’s slogan itself is: ‘Coming home for Market. Frankfurt combines a futuristic business.’ skyline with a stunning, historical old town From 24 to 28 January, around 1,050

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centre – the Römerberg, where the beautiful half-timbered buildings were reconstructed after World War II. Frankfurt is one of Germany’s main financial centres, so a fitting setting indeed for a show with the reach of Christmasworld.

No wonder buyers travel so far to come to the show, such as the Farberman brothers, who run the Swish Collection, located in Mentone, a suburb of Melbourne, Australia. They said: “Christmas is our life so we are prepared to travel the long way to Frankfurt at the other end of the world.

Christmasworld primarily presents the latest design trends from Europe, as well as Asia and the USA, and this makes the show extremely valuable for us.”

“Seeing, testing, smelling, feeling and tasting are the unbeatable advantages of shopping offline,” says Eva Olbrich, Christmasworld Director. “Moreover, the exchange of information within the ‘community’, cannot be reproduced online.

“In future sales will be generated via the shopping experience and no longer via the product alone. To be part of a brand or lifestyle is a new shopping incentive and for this Christmasworld offers inspiration unlike any other consumer goods fair.

“Christmasworld combines emotion and business with presentation magic to generate business success.”

exhibitors hailing from 48 countries will open their show stands at Frankfurt’s impressive exhibition centre to thousands of visitors, including buyers from all corners of the globe. From seasonal decorations and lighting to candles and fragrance, ribbons, wrapping and fresh and ornamental flowers, literally everything you could ever need to deliver a memorable Christmas is here.

And on top of this Christmasworld’s programme of complementary events for 24 christmas in january

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20/12/2019 15:43

PREVIEW Spring Fair

All About the New! Visitors to Spring Fair 2020 will enjoy an entirely new show experience from the moment they arrive at Birmingham’s NEC. But then, as Head of Content, Suzanne Ellingham, told Sarah Welsh, after a decade a re-edit and refresh was needed…

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hen it comes to Christmas it seems people really do like change. At least when you’re talking about the seasonal offering at one of the year’s biggest retail events, Spring Fair, and the products and exhibitors on show.

Suzanne Ellingham has worked within retail for 15 years, for Spring Fair for several, and been the show’s Head of UK Content for the past year. As she explains, over the past 12 months she and her team have spent hours curating visitor and retailer feedback and building on this to unveil a new and improved Spring Fair from 2 to 6 February at the NEC. “As Head of Content for the UK for several shows, including Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee, a big part of my role is finding out exactly what visitors want from us and meeting those needs,” Suzanne says. “Buyers are so central to what we do, and for them the Christmas offering is a favourite.

“The success of a show like Spring Fair is all about the human stories – be that visitors or brands. I’d say 90% of my time is speaking to buyers, finding out what we can do to add value to their experience of retail shows. We’ve spoken to more than 200 buyers this year alone and the feedback we’ve had in the past few months has all been around trends, inspiration and display, all of which are becoming increasingly important.

“All these have been central to the re-edit of Spring Fair we’ve just undertaken, and that’s why we’ve invested heavily in show features.

We’re bringing new energy and life to the show this year.”

Suzanne says that the seasonal hall has long held a special place in the heart of all who attend Spring Fair, and this year it is moving from Hall 2 to Hall 5 with a dazzling line-up of new features designed to maximise visitor experience.

“You can’t walk into the seasonal hall without smiling – especially when confronted with giant animatronic polar bears and singing Santas,” Suzanne says. “But we think the beams on faces will be even bigger this year.

“We’d had the same standard floor plan for a very long time. Visitors knew their route,

A Thirst for Trend Knowledge If you’re on the lookout for household names you won’t be disappointed at this year’s Spring Fair, with Mary Berry and Mary Portas two of the ‘headline acts.’

Molly Park, Head of Design for Home & Gift at Oliver Bonas, will be giving a talk, as will buyers from iconic retail brands including John Lewis and Monsoon.

“Visitor demand for information and content is huge,” Suzanne Ellingham explains. “That peer to peer information is so important, and a must-attend for any festive buyer this year is a talk by Ruth Kelly, Head of Gift & Greetings at Trend Bible. She will be chatting all about Christmas 2020 and what the best buys will be.”

The Ruth Kelly session takes place on 3 Feb, from 12.15 to 12.45pm, on the Inspiring Retail Stage in Hall 6. knew who they were going to see when they arrived – but that also meant they were going around the show on autopilot. Buyers have told us they want new – new ideas, new exhibitors, new discoveries, and the changes we’ve made will help them explore the show with new eyes.

“Our show has the largest gift offering in Europe in terms of square metreage and visitors, but the wow factor of Spring Fair will now also be about the magic.

“Christmas is one of our busier halls and we had a long time to think about how people walk the show. Hall 5 is the main walkway to get to the home part of the show, and people use this route rather than walking over the sky bridge. The move has meant that seasonal now has more space, plus the show refresh we’ve done will help ensure buyers now don’t miss a think and find that product gem they were perhaps searching for.”

The updated seasonal hall now includes a

“The success of a show like Spring Fair is all about the human stories – be that visitors or brands.”

themed winter wonderland café that will serve mulled wine and speciality drinks, and a festive and gift-themed curated product display. There will be a lot more product on show, according to Suzanne, and in addition special workshops are being held, including a session on Japanesestyle wrapping.

In addition, visitors will discover the ‘party playground’, a purpose-build demonstration area shared between Christmas, gift, party and play and tech, and a VIP lounge located just off the show floor where senior buyers can head to for lunch or to charge their phone.

“People want to be able to source locally, and by that I mean within the UK. Customers love handmade and sustainable products. Some smaller brands to check out within festive include; Peacock Emporium, Pilino’s and 12 Drummers.

“At Spring Fair we want to be a show that people can’t wait to see. Yes, we’ve got the scale and we’re a one-stop shop, but where we’ve seen a need for change is how we delight buyers and visitors. Hall 5 and the creativity it inspires is central to this focus, and that’s exciting.” *For more information visit: www.springfair.com

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20/12/2019 15:45

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FEATURE Dobbies

‘I can literally never get away from Christmas!’

Dobbies’ Creative Manager Ian Mitchell lives and breathes the festive season for all 12 months of the year – so just as well that he’s obsessed with the decorations, the glamour and the drama of it all…

What’s your own retail story, Ian?

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019 was nothing short of a stellar year for Dobbies Garden Centres. The trendsetting retail brand acquired 31 stores from Wyevale back in April, massively expanding the company’s national footprint, and followed this up with being awarded Best Trade Stand at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.

This garden centre sector giant has come a very long way since James Dobbie launched the business with its first store way back in 1865.

Key to Dobbies’ success is the importance they place on customer experience in their 69 centres, a packed events programme and for putting community links and environmental focus right up there with hard-earned retail growth.

Creative Manager Ian Mitchell has been leading the charge with Dobbies’ visual merchandising and design aesthetic since joining the business almost three years ago, and says he loves the fact the brand’s customers often talk about their love of retail theatre. It’s this overriding need to entertain visitors of all ages combined with meticulous planning and clever themes that ensured Christmas at Dobbies was bigger and more beautiful than ever before last year…

I’ve been working in visual merchandising for almost as long as I’ve been in the industry – 18 years. I started as a part time sales assistant in Gap when I was still at school, but two months later I was dressing the mannequins and realised I had a passion for the creative side.

Prior to Dobbies I worked at Harvey

they love the theatrical side of it, which was the best news ever! Translating the magic of the festive season to consumers is key.

We were also delighted last year to have the opportunity to reach a wider audience with the new stores – allowing us to spread the Dobbies festive cheer even wider!

Dobbies is famous for being built on so much more than just retail success. How much of your Christmas planning is about the festive experience in store and events, as well as product placement?

A huge focus for us is the customer’s overall experience in our centres, and the visual merchandising and space planning team works

A huge focus for us is the customer’s overall experience in our centres, and the visual merchandising and space planning team works closely together to ensure consumers get the full Christmas journey Nichols and The White Company.

What I’ve loved about coming to Dobbies is the sheer diversity of product we work with and also the plants. There’s a massive trend for plants right now, and it’s one I love personally as well.

2019 was such an important year for Dobbies as a business. Was preparation for last Christmas even more crucial than the norm?

Christmas 2019 was massive for us as a company. It’s always a really important time of year, and we make sure we tap into the key trends as well as ensuring stand-out favourites are still in the range.

I always listen to customer feedback as a starting point and take things from there.

What came up time and again was how much

closely together to ensure consumers get the full Christmas journey. My boss heads up the VM team, as the creative manager I look after the design side and then I work with a visual coordinator and space planner, and we also recently hired five regional presentation managers.

Sustainability is important to us as a business, and we’ve tried to reduce packaging where we can and are constantly searching for new eco-friendly materials We also have an extensive programme of events in stores. It’s important as we are a family destination and our stores have great floorspaces to work with. Our events tie into our central festive themes, with a Christmas Grotto experience, Breakfast and Tea with Santa events and of course Santa’s arrival.

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20/12/2019 15:25

In terms of festive planning, when does it all start?

We workshop with the buying team, and the planning starts in July looking ahead to the Christmas in 18 months’ time. So, we started the workshop process in July 2019, for Christmas 2020!

We create our festive themes as a group – also alongside the marketing and PR teams, as this ensures we get the best from every element of Christmas. We predict what will be the biggest trends for the season, and do a lot of research to support this. Year on year traditional themes are always a key factor for us. Last year the main theme was Santa’s Workshop, which was all about the magic of Christmas – cheeky elves, candy canes, lollipops, basically everything children love.

We had a really great response to Festive Fiesta. Cacti has been a massive recent trend, and customers were looking for alternative Christmas trees. The theme was really eye catching. In general themes for us are about catering to a really broad age range and all tastes.

You can bring in elements from one to add to another – for example, to warm up Into the Night theme.

How much of the initial planning is based on sales from the previous In terms of year? Do catwalk and social media VM planning, do individual trends also play a part? stores have We always start off with what went well last freedom to plan year and build from there. We don’t feel that as they wish? catwalk plays a huge part when it comes to Christmas, and while we do look at what’s trending on social media we only use elements.

For us Christmas is all about nostalgia and magical feeling for our customers.

Aside from Santa’s Workshop, what other major themes did you have for 2019?

Merry & Bright, which had traditional and rustic touches combined with warm jewel tones, Dreaming of Christmas, that was a warm and comforting theme, with Scandi influences, amber tones and that featured foliage and evergreens, and Into the Night – a very sophisticated theme featuring navy, silver and white. We also had Glamour, a seductive theme with rose golds, coppers and glitter accents, and Festive Fiesta, a colourful theme that blended influences from Mexico with bright pops of floral, to make a fun, vibrant and unmissable festive alternative.

With our flagship store just outside Edinburgh, I’ll go in to make sure everything is set up correctly, but otherwise it’s the presentation managers that work across the country. It’s really tricky to get everything to look exactly the same when you’re working with different floor spaces and shop heights, but what is important for us is that consistent customer service experience and the festive feeling they take away.

How many of the decorations that you stock are exclusive to Dobbies?

About 60% of our decorations have been developed by the buyers. Exclusivity at Christmas is important, we want to be the destination shopping place for customers.

Our customers are very into personalised products and crafty Christmas, and our wreath tables have been a big hit as a result. They allow you to decorate your own wreath, currently a huge trend in home styling.

What’s your biggest ‘ta da’ moment when it comes to Christmas at Dobbies?

It gets me in stages. It’s exciting when the themes come together, that first phase, and then when the samples come in and you see everything set up. The final ‘wow’ moment though is definitely when I see the customers coming in, loving what we’ve done and modelling how they can do the same at home.

Finally, what does Christmas mean to you personally Ian?

I absolutely love it, which is just as well as I can literally never get away from it! I’m festive focused all year round, but I also love the fact I’m constantly working on two seasons – Christmas and recently Spring/Summer 2020.

I love festive decorations, the food, the music. I’m the person who feels sad when it all has to come down each year and that’s when I start buying new pieces for my home!

I’m actually quite alternative when it comes to Christmas styling. I recently painted my lounge black, which is quite striking. Last year that tied in really well with the Glamour theme and I bought a lot of gold. I like change, but I also like decorations that last, but fortunately gold is pretty timeless! *Visit: www.dobbies.com

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20/12/2019 16:33

PREVIEW Christmas & Gift Show

Going Silver at Seventy!

This year Harrogate Christmas & Gift Show celebrates seven decades of festive success and selling, as Sarah Welsh reports In the post-war years of 1949, what topped Good and The Milford Collection. Which is a child’s gift wish list was a dice rolling game why buyers from garden centres to multiples christened, ‘The Game of Cootie.’ Whereas in and major department stores to the smallest the last couple of years at the show, popular independent stores all flock here. products and trends have included Christmas & Gift is also Christmas Eve boxes, llamas and not just a trade show elves and festive ‘magic sequin’ for festive products. pieces, where you brush the With seven halls shiny sequins each way to of the Harrogate & as reveal different pictures.

Convention m t ris But while festive Centre packed Ch m e a at 9 g , trends and customer with product, y s rro uar Wed Ha n demands may change, you’ll also find : a ( t a m 5J what remains the same offerings for Wh Fair to 1 o 4p t t 2 Gif en: 1 9am at Harrogate is the every gifting m Wh pm, te relaxed, low-key show vibe occasion o a g .c 6 e to ) rro entr tefair a that visitors love and which, imaginable, h H C 15t ere: onal rroga this year, is extending to the from i h a t W rna w.h 70th birthday celebrations.

Hanukka and e Int b: ww There are no ‘major EID, to Mother’s and e W celebrations’ planned, although Father’s Day, baby showers, show organisers have created a christenings, Easter, Halloween, new logo to mark the occasion – birthdays, anniversaries – and many more. taking the original logo and re-casting Simon Anslow, show organiser, says: “The it in silver. And there diversity of products on display at the new will also be a drinks show has grown dramatically in recent years reception held on and I’m always pleasantly surprised to see so either the first or many new and unexpected ranges. second night of the “Last year visitors could purchase anything show, straight after from garden furniture and ornaments to doors close, although housewares, toys, food and gift ranges, cards details of this were yet and candles. And in fact, as soon as you walk to be confirmed at the into the Harrogate Convention Centre you time of going to press. will be enveloped in delicious smells, from In terms of big-name brands booked to perfumed products such as diffusers, pot attend Christmas & Gift this year, retailers pourri and fragranced cones, and of course can look forward to visiting the show stands the ‘must have’ gift of fragranced candles.” of; Premier Decorations, Widdop, Floralsilk, So whatever you are searching for Gisela Graham, Heaven Sends, Riffelmacher with Christmas 2020 in mind, from and Joe Davies, to name just a few. unusual gifts to handmade decorations to But of course, Harrogate is also renowned ingenious product ranges sure to capture the for championing smaller, artisan and growing imagination of your customer, you’ll find it at brands, including the likes of; Artcuts, Felt So Christmas & Gift.

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n anyone’s book a 70th birthday is something to celebrate, an important milestone to be marked.

But then, on the other hand, if you know you’re good at something, that you deliver what you promise not just well, but in a way that sees satisfied customers returning year after year, you don’t really need to shout about it.

2020 marks 70 glorious years since the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair first opened its doors to the retail trade – although then it was known as Harrogate International Toy Fair. Since then it has grown into one of the most important festive and gift trade industry events, and also one of the most loved.

Festive and gift designers, manufacturers, suppliers, buyers and retailers come back to Harrogate each January for the amazing product range and choice, the friendly ambience, the social side of things and the nostalgia.

t at S w ho

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2020 marks 70 glorious years since the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair first opened its doors to the retail trade

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FEATURE Kaemingk

Stand M1

A season of giving and sharing | The 2020 Christmas Collection Kaemingk’s spectacular 6,200m² Christmas showroom showcases a fast range of Christmas trees, over 3,000 lighting items and is the home of eight inspirational theme rooms filled with Christmas decorations, gifts and home interior products.

Pink Forest

Step into our Fairy-tale forest and enter a magical world. Pink Forest is a fairy-tale theme with a colour pallet containing several tones of pink with a little green. It’s a place where elves, woodland animals and gnomes live peacefully together.

There are beautiful, velvety-soft garlands, hanging sprays, fantasy greenery with a sugary coating, and trees decorated with sprays, garlands and lights. Very large pink toadstools grow in the forest, some as high as 3 metres, with rope ladders hanging down allowing the gnomes to climb up. In the centre of the forest, where the lights draws you to a magical hidden spot, you will find a large fairy-tale tree surrounded by several little houses and elf benches.

A theme full of fantasy and imagination!

Christmas Eve

On a charming hill in the Provence, surrounded by vineyards, you will find an authentic country mansion. Large lanterns are hung in the porch, which creates an amazing entrance into the wine merchant’s tasting room. Above the festively decked table there are wreaths decorated with berry garlands and Christmas baubles, and extra broad tartan ribbons. The owner Jacques has an eclectic collection of nutcrackers which, together with the wine, makes a great Christmas box. The nutcrackers and tartan design play a prominent

part in this country-chic surrounding.

Christmas Eve; a wonderful name for one of the most important nights of the year. It is a time for getting together to enjoy delicious food and a good glass of wine.

Mountain Lodge

After a great day spent outdoors, enjoying the sun, snow and winter sports, come in, relax and get cosy at the Mountain Lodge.

On the outdoor terrace there are low lounge sofas with lovely thick cushions and throws arranged around a cosy wood fire. It’s a perfect place to relax.

Inside the lodge you can sample delicious food at a long table that is already laid for dining. The Christmas tree is decorated in a characteristic Alpine style with edelweiss, baubles with a tree print, tiny ski gondolas, little wooden skis and various animal hangers.

The warm and friendly surroundings feature a large winter/Christmas collection, gorgeous home decor items and various animals and animal heads. The ambience is contemporary, cosy and very inviting.

and flower shop. Because it is nearly Christmas, the greenhouse holds a table fantastically laid with stonewashed table textiles, romantic tableware, glassware and cutlery. There are also beautiful candlesticks and tea-light holders.

On and above the table, there are greenery decorations made from a combination of dried flowers, sprays of berries, eucalyptus, pine greenery and little glass baubles.

Nature’s gift includes the major trend of flowers and plants, but now with a wintery ambience and an abundance of miniature trees.

Would you like to see more?

Please visit www.kaemingk.com

Nature’s Gift

With our wonderful new colour Sage Green, combined with Misty Grey, touches of white and two soft pastels: lilac and pink, Nature’s Gift evokes a sense of frozen nature.

In a romantic farmhouse, with a greenhouse and an old vinery, you will find an ornament

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Konstsmide ’Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten’

KONSTSMIDE (UK) Ltd Hardwick View Road, Holmewood Industrial Estate Holmewood, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 5SA, United Kingdom

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Tel. +44 (0)1246-852140 Fax +44 (0)1246-854297 E-mail: sales@konstsmide.co.uk www.konstsmide.co.uk

FEATURE Giftware Trading

Stand A30

‘Christmas is crazy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way’ For Giftware Trading’s Managing Director, Ben Jeffrey, Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair is quite simply the best way to bring in the new year…

How important is the Harrogate Christmas & Gift show to you as a major supplier - and how long have you been taking a stand there?

our clients require.

We have our own warehouse in Bristol and all orders are picked and prepared by ourselves, so it’s all hands-on deck at Christmas. We’re flexible in our approach and as everything is done in house, we can pretty much manage anything - whether an order is one pallet or a hundred.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift 2020 will be our twelfth year exhibiting at the fair and it continues to go from strength to strength. It’s become one of the most important trade shows of the year for us, providing a foundation to build on for the year ahead. It’s the best way to start the New Year!

What is it about Harrogate that you think buyers like?

The show has a very strong festive focus, buyers know exactly why they are attending and that certainly helps. You genuinely feel as though Christmas is in January whilst you’re there.

Harrogate is a manageable size, which means buyers can walk the show and then decide where they wish to re-visit, without feeling pressured over time.

Christmas & Gift is also very diverse, with an excellent balance of some of the biggest names in the industry through to new and bespoke companies that may be exhibiting for the first time, or still be very much in the infancy of their business.

What about the show’s social ambience and the history of the town itself?

Harrogate is a unique town and to have a show within easy walking distance of the town centre is rare. At the end of each day it is a privilege to be able to walk into town and have such an amazing choice of restaurants where you can relax with colleagues and clients.

Will you also be at Spring Fair?

In terms of Giftware Trading’s extensive Christmas collection, what is it that enables you to stand out against the competition?

We have worked hard to develop our own niche with certain products which our clients seem to sell very well. We also understand our market and why clients visit us, and we do try to find some unusual products that are a little bit different but still with a sensible price point. We now work with many suppliers in Asia, developing certain ranges and collections that are exclusive to us.

Trying to find products with a real point of difference is what this business is about after all. I’m always amazed at the amount of fresh and innovative products at the show. Every year it genuinely seems to get better and better.

Yes, we are in Hall 5, Stand A01. This is the largest stand of any show we exhibit at and will include our Christmas collection, plus Easter and Spring collections.

We always try to make an effort when making our displays at shows, but I do think it is also important that clients can clearly see the products.

Christmas is fun because it gives you the opportunity to go that little bit further and attempt to visually deliver some of the ideas that have been floating around in your head for the last few months!

“We have worked hard to develop our own niche with certain products which our clients seem to sell very well”

How do you manage to meet the needs of both multiple stores and one-off independents?

We work very hard to offer a diverse and eclectic collection with many different products and materials, so hopefully there are areas of interest that would appeal to both.

We’re also in a unique position where we can always offer bespoke packing solutions so certain products are presented in the exact way

What trends do you think will be big for Christmas this year?

I think outrageous and quirky tree decorations will continue to be popular, where you can put anything from a tiger to a train on your tree.

Finally, what does Christmas mean to you personally?

Simple, family. Despite working with Christmas products almost 12 months of the year I still completely see the magic of what Christmas brings. It’s truly the one time of year when families come together and that is special. I’m a dad of three so the big day is normally quite a chaotic affair with various grandparents, uncles and aunts descending on us for a few days. It’s crazy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

*For more information visit: www.giftwaretrading.co.uk.

Harrogate show stand: A30

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Konstsmide Quality lasts longer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more environmentally friendly

KONSTSMIDE (UK) Ltd Hardwick View Road, Holmewood Industrial Estate Holmewood, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 5SA, United Kingdom

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Tel. +44 (0)1246-852140 Fax +44 (0)1246-854297 E-mail: sales@konstsmide.co.uk www.konstsmide.co.uk

Stand B4

FEATURE Shatchi

A CHRISTMAS RANGE TO SUIT ALL TASTES I recently journeyed to Hitchin in Hertfordshire to meet with Hiren and Hemal Patel, who run the family business Shatchi from their offices and warehousing in Hitchin.

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aving their H.Q. in Hitchin means that Shatchi have excellent transport connections to mainline trains, Luton and Stansted airports and of course the A1 and M1 motorways so you can easily get to their showrooms to see the latest innovations.

Earlier this year they appointed John McVey as their National Sales Manager for the U.K. and Europe. John is no stranger to the Christmas Decoration business, having over 30 years’ experience in the industry.

The company have been exhibiting at both Harrogate and Spring Fair for quite a number of years now and the Harrogate 2020 show will see the company with a new stand and hall number, having moved from Hall ‘Q’ to Hall ‘B’ with a larger stand to better display their growing selection of Christmas products.

Now approaching their 11th year, Shatchi first began by importing toys and giftware products, soon expanding into Christmas.

The rapid growth of their Christmas business made Hiren realise the potential this had to offer, although the toy and gift side is still very popular with the company supplying many toys to the garden centres for Christmas grottos.

Shatchi pride themselves on sourcing all of their ranges from ethical and environmentally aware producers in the various factories in China and India. They have offices and employ their own Q.C. and sourcing staff in both these countries.

Shatchi cover all of the major Christmas categories including

Trees –

Both pre-lit and non-lit in a wide variety of sizes styles and

to 1,200 LEDs offering customers total flexibility in option choice as you only need to stock one size.

Shatchi Cluster lights are available from 480LEDs up to 1,920 LEDs Compact lights and LED battery lights also add to the lighting collection.

All lighting is available in either clear or green cable.

Many of these lighting options can be App and/or remote controlled.

Outdoor connectable string lights, battery lights, copper wire lights and many other lighting and lit items add depth to this exciting category. prices. These include fashion trees, tinsel and flocked designs. A veritable forest ranging from the Alaskan Pine all the way to the sumptuous Lapland Fir means there should be a tree to suit all tastes and requirements.

A matching range of wreaths and garlands is also available to enhance that festive feeling and complete the that Christmas look.

Don’t forget the famous Shatchi Tree Train to give your tree that bit extra that the kids will absolutely love.

A range of tree bags and also ones for wreaths and garlands make easy work of storage after Christmas.

A large collection of Fibre Optic trees complete the range, again in a wide choice of sizes, looks and functions.

Pallet Displays / Wraps and FSDU retail solutions are all available on this wide and popular tree range.

LED Lighting –

Plenty of variety to choose from both mains and battery-operated for both indoor and outdoor use with variable timers and all the latest technologies. LED String lights ranging from 100 up to 2000 LEDS in all the popular colours White, Warm White, Multicolour and Blue and also other fashion colours too. The whole range is multi-function and memory chipped.

Connectable Icicle lights from 240 LEDs

Room Décor

A large and extensive range of Wreaths and Garlands and floral items to give rooms that Christmas touch. There are both non-lit and pre-lit either plain or decorated designed to give your Christmas décor that special feeling.

LED Lanterns including swirling glitter lanterns, candles, figurines, to mention but a few. Add in the many other mouthwatering decorative items such as table trees, Laser-cut wooden Christmas scenes and plaques plus themed decorations and a glittering array of tree trim and baubles.

To make any party complete Shatchi are into dressing-up in a big way with not only Santa outfits, but also Elves costumes and all the party accessories such as hats etc.

Outdoor Snowfall projectors plus LED reindeer and penguins and other woodland themed animals complete the Shatchi range, so as we said earlier the company have plenty of product to offer in all of the major categories at prices to offer the very best of margins.

Come and join us for a cuppa (or something a bit stronger!!), we would love to see you.

Harrogate Stand B 4 Hall B Spring Fair Hall 5 – C76/E77 Tel: 01462 432 600 Email: john#shatci.co.uk

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Konstsmide THE brand for all your quality Christmas Lighting

Visit us at: HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT 12th–15th January 2020 Stand M22 BIRMINGHAM NEC SPRING FAIR 2nd–6th February 2020 Our New Larger Stand Hall 5, Stand 5C50-E51

KONSTSMIDE (UK) Ltd Hardwick View Road, Holmewood Industrial Estate Holmewood, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 5SA, United Kingdom

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Tel. +44 (0)1246-852140 Fax +44 (0)1246-854297 E-mail: sales@konstsmide.co.uk www.konstsmide.co.uk

FEATURE Premier

Stand H1 & H2

Managing change and growth John Athwal, managing director of one of the UK’s largest Christmas suppliers – Premier Decorations – discusses some major changes for the company in recent years, that will future-proof the business in line with the ever-changing retail landscape. He explains …

I

n the past couple of years, Premier Decorations has undergone some major changes. We are gradually waving goodbye to the days when people walked into their local high street shops to see what is new, saw something fabulous and purchased it without questioning whether it was safe and kind to the environment; and whether they could purchase it cheaper elsewhere.

To add to this and help our retailers with a little inspiration, we have also once again launched our hugely popular Christmas Stories catalogue for 2020 The millennial consumer is conscious of the impact their purchases may have on the planet; they are concerned about the health and safety of the products they purchase; and importantly they have the internet in their hand giving them access to not just every physical and online retail outlet in the UK, but potentially the world too. Herein lay the first problem, in that the internet does not always guarantee the foregoing.

Stores across the board from multiple departments, small independents to individual garden centres and chains have had to adapt to this new retail landscape, not only ensuring they have the type of products that consumers are seeking, but also providing a shopping experience to tempt 38 christmas in january

them away from their computer screens to purchase instore. The garden centres in particular capture this in their stride.

Adapting to demand Recognising all the challenges that our retail customers face, Premier Decorations has scrutinised its business model and adapted to ensure it delivers on every aspect that will keep its customer’s sales flowing and profit margins increasing.

Existing clients will already be aware of the new divisions in our product offerings.

Our designers are constantly coming up with fantastic new products and consequently our annual Premier Decorations catalogue was getting so big, it could almost stop a bus in its tracks! We decided it was time to restructure. We took this opportunity to not only compartmentalise our products, but to rebrand them with a fresh new image making them even more attractive to the end consumer. All of our summer, garden and outdoor products are now presented under the umbrella of The Outdoor Living Co and The Summer Living Co. Halloween has its own catalogue and also The Tree Company – as we have so many exciting new greenery products from Christmas trees to floristry ranges, we felt they deserved their own imagery under the Tree Company trade mark. This means that when you now pick up a Premier Decorations Christmas 2020 catalogue – it will contain exactly what it says on the tin – hundreds of decorations, ornaments, novelties and gifts, and lighting all aimed specifically at the Christmas market.

Customers will notice the new packaging on lighting, which on previews has received excellent reviews. Remarks such as ‘best in the market;’ ‘now so much more upmarket;’ to ‘now we have a product range that not

only is the best specification but now looks the part.’

In-store inspiration To add to this and help our retailers with a little inspiration, we have also once again launched our hugely popular Christmas Stories catalogue for 2020 which highlights different colour schemes to appeal to all sectors from sophisticated and on-trend to cute and traditional. Examples include the Winter Forest collection which has rustic wooden tones, shades of green and grey with crisp white connecting nature and winter animal scenes and appealing to those who prefer a natural look to their festive decorations; whilst North Pole is themed to appeal to children with bright primary colours, modern nostalgia and joyful characters (including nutcrackers and naughty elves!). There are eight themes to choose from and retailers using these collections for inspiration for their instore displays have already commented on the effectiveness of increasing sales. When the consumer sees how well the products all complement and enhance each other they find it difficult to walk away without purchasing more!

Effective instore displays really are key to attracting impulse buys – and Premier is ensuring that its customers have the tools to make the very best of its ranges. This includes display pieces such as nutcrackers from 6ft polyresin and 6ft plush pieces, right down to tree decorations in an array of colours and finishes, sequins, glitter, painted and fabric. We have invested in larger, eyecatching display items including a 6ft plush wobbly body Santa, Reindeer, Nutcracker and Angel, along with a flexible body cheeky elf (smaller in size – but still larger than the rest!).

Gingerbread is one of our showstopping display areas this year from trains to nutcrackers, candy canes and cakes, gingerbread figures and tree trims. We also have three new ranges of our own-design products: Night Before Christmas, Frosty and Friends and Christmas Reindeer – all of which have multiple products including door mats, candles, Christmas Eve boxes, pre-lit canvas and tree trims (to name just a few).

The real deal The consumer move towards more natural looking Christmas trees has not gone unnoticed and The Tree Company has focused on this for its 2020 range; as well as the use of Ultrabrights® pin wire lights on pre-lit trees. In addition to its commitment to offer quality products at achievable prices; there has also been a move towards higher price point trees for next year, as consumers appear to be spending more, preferring to invest in more expensive products designed to last. Another exciting new development is the detachable star topper, which creates a stunning effect by wrapping lights around the star.

Floristry has been a major growth area in 2019 and next year’s range will deliver on all fronts from the high-end dressed floristry to lower price point naked wreaths and garlands. Natural eucalyptus products were also a huge success and consequently this range has also been expanded.

on all tree and floristry items, as well as QA procedures such as tilt tests and sharp point tests undertaken at source.

As retail is changing, so has our packaging and we now offer high-grade corrugated cardboard boxes which are tough enough to withstand courier transportation systems.

Assisting our retailers Acknowledging the challenging and fastchanging market, the Premier team aims to help its customers wherever it can. We not only offer a range of eye-catching, quality POS solutions, but have a photo library of catalogue items, product specifications and media packages to help with marketing.

To see more of what Premier has to offer for next year’s festive season, including some outstanding offers and deals, visit us at Harrogate Christmas & Gift from 12th to 15th January 2020 – or contact the Premier Decorations team on 020 8624 5555 or email: sales@ premierdec.com

Quality and sustainability Premier Decorations is proud to have achieved FSC accreditation and in line with this, is committed to reducing its use of nonreusable plastics even further throughout its ranges. Our QA standards remain high with inspections of every production order undertaken. Flame retardant PVC is used christmas in january 39

Stand D2

FEATURE Keel

Creating a Sustainable Christmas 2020 marks Keel Toys’ third outing to Harrogate Christmas & Gift, and this year the iconic brand’s emphasis will be on the eco-friendly side…

K

eel Toys are recognised the world over by the iconic red disc sitting in the ear of each toy they produce. The brand’s very own seal of quality and value.

But with 2020 marking the launch of a new, more environmentally-friendly focus for the famous children’s toy company, Keel Toys will be showcasing its freshly-launched Keeleco 100% recycled range of soft toys at the Christmas & Gift show – and encouraging its many customers to make this Christmas a more sustainable one.

“2020 will mark our third year exhibiting at Harrogate,” says Keel’s UK Sales Director, Steve Cox. “It’s a great opportunity for us to meet the Christmas specialists in a relaxed environment and has unquestioningly helped us to develop the garden centre market.

“With the company having launched a new sustainability initiative, we were delighted to announce at the end of last year that the first step was, from November,

“At Keel, we are proud to say that we have already phased in the 100% use of recycled polyester stuffing in all our toys having all our items carry a new Keel Toy icon formed from FSC cardboard – saving plastic on the millions of toys we sell each year.”

As everyone knows, thanks to people like Sir David Attenborough raising the public consciousness and concern over single use plastics and bottles, these have become one of the hot topics over the last few years, and have resulted in the increased use of recycled polyester.

Keel Toys

being one of the companies ahead of the curve on this move.

As Steve explains: “Recycled polyester, also known as rPET, is obtained by first collecting bottles and other plastic waste and cleaning them. The cleaned bottles are then shredded into pellets.

“To create the yarn the pellets are then crushed, melted and spun into thread. This process gives plastic a second life and takes 59% less energy to produce than virgin polyester. To give an example, 16 water bottles would produce enough fibre to make a 30cm toy.

“At Keel, we are proud to say that we have already phased in the 100% use of recycled polyester stuffing in all our toys. The next phase for us was to design a fully sustainable range.”

This collection takes the form of Keeleco, and will take centre stage on Keel’s show stand at Harrogate. The delightful eco-friendly designs are manufactured and stuffed with the 100% recycled polyester and weighted with recycled glass beads.

“These gorgeous floppy toys have been perfectly designed for hugging by a loving new friend!” Steve says. “Traditional glass eyes have been replaced with cotton embroidered eyes which give the toys a unique and playful character. The iconic Keel symbol and hang tag are now formed from FSC card and attached to the toy with cotton. Even the sew-in label is recycled, and all are manufactured in an ICTI ethically audited factory.”

The Keeleco range features endangered animals from the four corners of the globe, including; Turtle, sloth, tiger, snow leopard, panda, blue whale, great ape and polar bear models, just to name a few.

“For eco awareness the range will be clearly labelled with the sustainable message and offered with a variety of retail solutions,” Steve adds.

“Keeleco will be at the heart of the Christmas soft toys launching at the Harrogate Fair. The range will also feature favourite Christmas characters including reindeer, husky, snowman and polar bear with a new donkey, all in 100% recycled fabrics. Our aim is that our customers can promote a sustainable Christmas in 2020 with Keeleco – soft toys for your heart and mind.” *For more information visit: www. keeltoys.com. Harrogate show stand: D2

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CHRISTMAS ICONS Piers Croke of Gisela Graham London traces how the various Christmas icons earned their places on the Christmas tree

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hat is a Christmas tree decoration? Anything goes, nowadays! Our company pleads guilty to offering as Christmas treetrim things as random as glass cupcakes, spaceships and dressedup crocodiles. But about 800 years ago, when the custom of decorating a Christmas tree first appeared somewhere on the shores of the Baltic, decorations were very simple.

I’m glad to say that those classic decorations are still very much alive and well, and major components of our range every year: the original Christmas icons.

First and foremost is the Star – ideally 8-pointed. It’s taken as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Wise Men, and after many centuries it’s still chosen by millions around the world to top the family Christmas tree. The tradition was so strong that even atheistic Soviet Russia had to make room for it. Their spin was to invent a Red Star to surmount socialist trees or “New Year Spruces” as they were officially re-branded.

Stars made of straw as treetrim have been decorating trees in Germany, Poland and Scandinavia for many centuries, often made by hand by the family. Gisela Graham herself remembers skipping homework as a child in Germany to make straw stars, earning detention.

Angels as the alternative tree-topper have a mere 300 years of history behind them. They are the invention of a German doll-maker in the early 18th century.

But Apples, especially red ones, can be traced right back to the beginning of the tradition and were among the typical decorations of those proto-Baltic Christmas trees.

Scholars note a parallel tradition in mediaeval Germany. Miracle plays were performed by the guilds on December 24th, the name day of Adam & Eve, which featured a Tree of Paradise. Red apples decorated the tree to denote the Forbidden Fruit, which was balanced by wafers to symbolize redemption. The apples were soon replaced by red wooden balls, the direct ancestors of today’s glass bauble - which Above: Lights on the Christmas tree: Martin Luther’s bright idea!

42 christmas in january

Left: Eve’s apple: It cost her Paradise but it inspired a Christmas decoration!

technology made possible in the mid-19th century.

There’s always been a place too for Artificial Flowers, then as now.

Back in the 16th century coloured paper roses, a symbol of the purity of the Virgin Mary, were prominent on those early trees.

Martin Luther, no less, is credited with putting Lights on the Christmas tree from the 1530’s – candles of course in his day – and from then on until Edison in 1890 produced the first electric fairy lights, at a price today equivalent to around $3,000. Luther was inspired, it seems, when walking through a forest of fir trees by the sight of stars twinkling between the branches.

Finally, Sweetmeats (or candy or gingerbread) have always featured: the sort of specially nice expensive foods fit for a celebration. Sixteenthcentury trees carried the real thing, to be consumed by children and apprentices. In our own times we offer indigestible simulations.

But, give or take the odd crocodile or spaceship, we and our counterparts in the Christmas business generally hold true to the spirit of the Baltic Christmas tree. In the main, the decorations we purvey today owe their inspiration to those muchrespected pioneers.

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FEATURE Tallon

We are very excited to welcome you to the launch of our 2020 Christmas Collection at Harrogate Christmas & Gift Here’s a quick look at our main trending categories for 2020!

Festive wonderland from Tallon

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allon have been exhibiting at the Harrogate Christmas Gift show for many years and their ‘Festive Wonderland’ range will be showing 500 new items. This is their major brand for Harrogate, but of course they do have five key areas that make up the Tallon Collection.

Kraft Christmas Traditional Artic Skies Winter Wonderland Snowmuch Fun Speaking with Tallon’s Barry Heath just before Christmas, Barry told me that the company have a very loyal customer base and that he believes that the outlook for 2020 is looking really promising.

Tallon keep the vast majority of their products in stock, enabling the company to supply orders very quickly. They show at all the major exhibitions , following Harrogate with Paper World in Frankfurt and of course Spring Fair.

Harrogate stand number is Hall D – stand 04 with Spring Fair Hall 10 Stand A40-B41.

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FEATURE Riffelmacher

Stand A8/A40

Riffelmacher – Be Inspired, Be Different!

Riffelmacher are fast becoming one of the leading Christmas suppliers in the UK and Ireland.

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ow, no stranger to the Harrogate Christmas and Gift fair, everyone at Riffelmacher has been quietly and diligently working away to ensure they stay on top of their game.

Listening to their customers, acting on their requests and bringing something different, something special, something unique to the market place. John King - Head of Export sales tells us “ Working closely with our customers enables us to react to the needs of the end customer and in turn this brings a synergy between us.“ Every supplier can claim a good relationship with their customer but when you really partner with a customer to bring their ideas to life and realise their dreams then you truly have a cooperation you can both be proud of. As manufacturers Riffelmacher believe they have this relationship that includes sketches and ideas made round a table that can soon become reality!

Bespoke items for customers large or small are their specialty. If you need an ornament in a corporate colour or in a certain design, need your logo or special message on a bauble then Riffelmacher are the specialists for this.

The company’s latest trends will be here to see in Harrogate, Silent Night, Nature, Homey Red, Black and Gold and Nude but Spirited are just a few of the new themes to take your breath away and Inspire you!

Let it be GLASS!

Riffelmacher are one of the last remaining Glass Bauble manufacturers in Germany.

Proud of their German heritage they produce baubles and ornaments in a myriad of shapes and sizes in their own factory 800 metres on top of a mountain in Thuringia.

Here, inspired by the nature and beauty around them, designers and production staff

customers as the last remaining Tinsel manufacturer in Germany. Well known for their quality, even consumers can see and feel the difference in a Riffelmacher tinsel to any other. For those in the know, the company’s garlands are easily identifiable even without a header card. John King points out a stand out feature that no other competitor has...

If you want to know what it is?..then you’ll have to come to Hall ‘A’ to see them, this is no gimmick, you will see for yourself !

With a range of hundreds of colours and the capacity to handle everything from small retailer to multiple retailer, Riffelmacher have the capacity to deliver.

Tinsel has seen a resurgence over the last few years and has become fashionable again for the tree and home. So if you are sourcing single garlands to tinsel display systems n o to tinsel fountains, i work their magic tatte of stars, hearts, and i v n a s . . . . our med and create the i numbers, for retail An A Tanyinvite an The er, most wonderful or commercial to ermacher Germ an be s on Christmas they can make e G ffelm to a Germ nibbl the ornaments and fulfill your i s h n R der wit an ‘ o imaginable. Working m m needs. If you’re a A r ll 5p re ning Ge Ha rom in the latest trends in d e looking for v n n i e gf e a nd design and colour the quality garlands win ir sta venin e company offer everything that will look as the day ! n from the traditional to the Su ards if they just came off the w trendy! Here they are also on machine, packed in small outer able to supply every customer quantities to preserve their appearance branch from small retailer, and haven’t spent weeks on end in a shipping internet sales, multiple retailer and container then look no further... commercial suppliers.

Let It Be TINSEL

To complement Riffelmacher’s range of Glass ornaments the company have their own production of Tinsel Garlands.

Situated next to their Head Office and warehousing in Roth near the beautiful city of Nuremberg, they are proud to supply

Good To Know!

Riffelmacher are famous for their traditional German style LED villages. For 2020 the collection has been extended to help customers optimise sales. .Snow-globes in various sizes from kids pocket money value to exquisite collectable pieces are as popular as ever! Also very popular are Lanterns and

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Lantern sets. This range has been further extended due to demand. As well as these items you‘ll find thousands of other home, tree and table top decorations and DIY accessories for the ‘make your own’ market.

Let it GLOW!

The company’s latest trends will be here to see in Harrogate, Silent Night, Nature, Homey Red, Black and Gold and Nude but Spirited

New for 2020 Riffelmacher launch a brand new candle range in the UK and Ireland.

This range is inspired by Scandinavian design, rustic candles which include the glass and a high quality wax candle.

Manufactured by hand in Europe to the highest quality, these unique Lanterns will really add atmosphere to any setting. Bought on either a ¼ or a ½ Pallet these displayers are ready to sell the moment they hit your stores. Also available are top up lanterns in cartons to keep the display looking it’s best.

Customer Own labeling can also be handled along with retail pricing.

The Company’s 2020 Trend brochure and catalogue are available on request.

Should you not be able to attend the Harrogate Christmas and Gift Fair in January then you can also see them at Christmasworld Frankfurt.. More and more buyers are making the trip to Riffelmacher’s spacious showroom in Roth just a 35 minute drive from Nuremberg Airport. Why not take advantage of their Fly and Buy showroom package and see the complete range all under one roof.

With a U.K sales force calling on all areas of the country, John King – Head of Export sales hopes he has sparked an interest and looks forward to seeing both old and new customers in Harrogate or Christmasworld, Frankfurt..

Tel: 0049 152 09527957 Email:John.king@riffelmacher.de

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FEATURE Premier

Get ready to party Premier style

H

alloween is no longer just about dressing up and is no longer child-orientated.

Adults have started having more and more parties that are getting bigger and bigger and fancier and fancier. Party hosts put a lot of effort into organizing their long awaited party with their plans requiring much thought.

Premier Halloween incorporate all the latest trends into their ranges thus ensuring that any Halloween party is right on trend.

Outdoor lighting is a fast growing part of Premier Halloweenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range for 2020 with around 1000 items making up the Collection. The U.K. is fast catching up with the USA in not only having Halloween items inside the house but also in their front gardens.

The visual impact of merchandising and the dramatic effect of in store Halloween displays fuel customer excitement to participate in the festival, so be sure to check out Premierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s merchandising solution, which include Gondolas, Stands and premerchandised FSDUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

They look forward to meeting customers old and new at Harrogate in Hall H stand H.2.

Tel: 0208 6245555 Email: sales@premierdec.com

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- EST. 1947 -

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair Hall B Stand B5 www.daviesproducts.com

Spring Fair Stand F20 G21 Hall 9 0151 922 4246

info@daviesproducts.co.uk

PREVIEW Christmas & Gift Show

Lesser & Pavey Ltd Stand A6 Tel: 01322 279 225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk

Featuring the hand painted excellence of Jennifer Rose and exclusive Christmas range is unveiled to buyers at the January Harrogate fair in the International Centre on Stand A6 and at Birmingham NEC in Hall 3 stand N20-P21.

The range featuring many favourites including sets of fine mugs, single mugs, melamine trays of various sizes, individual coasters, placemats, jugs and much more.

Also new is the Santa range illustrations by the Macneil Studio exclusively created for Lesser and Pavey. This range features Santa leaving presents under the Christmas tree in a traditional festive setting, the illustrations capturing the little detail such as Santa’s sleigh through the window.

From the same studio comes the exclusive Robin range. This range features three beautiful Robins perched in a snowy, country setting the illustrations capturing many festive elements such as snowmen and traditional Christmas elements scattered throughout the background.

These ranges feature all of the quality classic ceramic and kitchen items that make for a comprehensive Christmas array of products.

Brand-Based Journey Stand Q18 Web: www.gaeltagkeltika.com

For Gaeltag Keltika, Harrogate’s Christmas & Gift Show is always a winner – and the perfect place to showcase their beautiful portfolio of festive and gift brands From plans for a Celtic Christmas to representing some of the most beautiful glass and ceramic gifting brands in the UK, Gaeltag Keltika’s journey has taken some unexpected turns since the company opened its doors back in 1997.

The business started life with a Gaelic theme to it as Managing Director Frank Emmerson saw a gap in the market for stationery products with Celtic designs, but it has since gone on to trade as licensee for brands including figurine specialists Cow Parade and Your Name in Lights, that makes personalised LED festive baubles.

This year Gaeltag will be making the journey from its trading offices, located

in a 15th Century barn in Old Amersham, to Harrogate’s Christmas & Gift Fair for the seventh time.

“Christmas & Gift is the first show in many members of the garden centre sector’s buying calendar, and our product ranges are very popular in garden centre gift shops,” says Frank.

“So, it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase our new ranges.

“We have exhibited for six years and have always found it to be a positive show, and because it is a smaller, focused show it gives us more time to talk to our customers.

“With specific Christmas product in mind, we will be showing our personalised Your Name in Lights LED baubles with updated names for 2020. And we will also be showing the fabulously colourful and creative ‘Build a Bauble’ range in a modified format.

These collections continue to perform exceptionally well for us.

“We are also very excited to be showing the latest releases from the You are an Angel figurine range at Harrogate, which will be bringing a splash of colour to the eye-catching collection.” *For more information visit: www. gaeltagkeltika.com. Harrogate show stand: Q18.

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FEATURE Floral Silk

Stand B2 & B9

Another Blooming Christmas!

The old adage that the Christmas season is all about family certainly rings true for Floralsilk, as Marketing Manager Amy Thorley explains…

Floralsilk is famous for being a family-run business - how would you say this adds to your expertise with seasonal and Christmas product?

Floralsilk was established in 1979 by John O’Flaherty and is now run by John’s son, Liam and his wife, Steph. Liam has grown up in the business and brings a wealth of experience in sourcing and selection, combined with long-standing supplier relationships.

Steph has brought an injection of retail and market understanding which complements Liam’s skills. Our core family values mean the company is a great place to work, and this also translates into our customer service. We see customers’ business as an extension of our own.

How important is Christmas for the business?

Very! Floralsilk’s Christmas business will make up close to 50% of the company’s sales for 2019, which is an incredible achievement given that it was closer to 10% back in 2009.

The growth in Christmas has contributed considerably to the company’s overall growth resulting in Floralsilk tripling its turnover in the past decade.

Your known for beautiful silk flowers, but have you seen a growth in popularity for your artificial trees?

Our artificial trees are the best in the industry.

They’re incredibly life-like. The trend for green plants and trees has fuelled a 40% growth in sales of them this year, and we’re also growing our retail business on Christmas trees year on year.

Our Gold Luxe theme has been inspired this year by fashion and interiors trends and features animal print and feathers

What colour and product trends are shaping up to be the big sellers for you for 2020?

We won’t have feedback from our wider customer base until we launch the collection at Harrogate, but so far we’re finding natural products, made of metal, paper, fabric and felt are becoming more and more popular and our whole collection has been expanded in this area.

Our Gold Luxe theme has been inspired this year by fashion and interiors trends and features animal print and feathers. Classic Blue is the Pantone colour of the year for 2020 and our Northern Lights theme reflects the popularity of dark blue in people’s homes – including complementary blue, silver and snow kissed decorations. All of our themes will be presented on our Harrogate Trade Fair stand, with room sets and displays to inspire our customers.

And what about for Christmas 2020?

The interiors trend for pastels has trickled

through into Christmas decorations to complement people’s homes. These can be seen in our new shimmery iridescent tree trim range in our Contemporary Pastels collection.

In Christmas foliage and berries, Eucalyptus continues to play a strong role, along with Lambs Ear, Ivy and of course our natural berries range.

Our collection of pre-lit decorations also grew in 2019 and we have built on this for 2020 with a range of pre-lit garlands & wreaths as well as pre-lit presents – perfect for sitting beneath the tree after gifts have been opened.

The Instagram generation now wants to make Christmas as ‹wow› as possible in their homes - how does high quality silk florals and foliage play its part?

We see silk flower and foliage profiled constantly on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat with key influencers such as Mrs Hinch regularly featuring faux blooms as part of their stories. People are beginning to realise that nowadays the quality of faux foliage and flowers is so good it is often difficult to tell them apart from real, plus artificial stems are an easy to look after, sustainable option.

Will you be at both Christmas & Gift and Spring Fair this year?

Yes, we take a large stand at both events, where we will be featuring our renowned displays.

Every year, our customers come to our stand to capture display ideas which they can replicate in their shops, shop windows and website photo-shoots. This year will be no different – come and see our Gold Luxe mannequin and our (almost) life sized Land Rover display!

Our exclusive and best-selling Land Rover tree decoration will be brought to life.

*For more information visit: www.floralsilk.co.uk. Harrogate show stands: B2 and B9

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FEATURE Noma

SEVEN YEARS OF GROWTH It doesn’t seem like seven years ago that LeisureGrow acquired Noma – a famous brand with a rich history that saw Leisure grow celebrate Noma’s eightieth last year with a splendid knees-up at the Royal Hall, Harrogate.

I

journeyed to Noma’s picturesque H.Q. at Dewmead Farm, Hinxworth in deepest Hertfordshire to meet up with Sales & Marketing Director Frank Kaminski who told me that the key to their success was to constantly be innovating and this has proved a huge point of difference when buyers have compared Noma to the other big players in the Christmas industry.

Frank told me that Noma were facing challenging but exciting times. “You have to be

on your toes and to be constantly creating new themes and ideas. It’s all about innovation!”

With a range that comprises around 2,000 items, everything from Noma has a light on it – lighting being Noma’s heritage and core area of expertise.”

The only products Noma sell that don’t come pre-lit is their non-lit Christmas trees, which begin at 45cm.

The BIG news is that Noma have created a totally new collection of BIG display trees up to twelve metres in height designed for both

consumers and in particular public areas and for display companies.

In line with Noma’s innovation in decorative lighting, Frank is of the opinion that if you create something new, it is not so

“The key to their success was to constantly be innovating and this has proved a huge point of difference when buyers have compared Noma to the other big players in the Christmas industry.”

much about what it costs – within reason! – as people are prepared to pay a little more for something totally new and original.

For 2020 Noma will be building on its USB lighting range with different functions that plug into a standard plug or standard USB, completely doing away with transformers. Sales have proved impressive

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since its launch in Harrogate last year.

Noma has also built on its range of highend products that can be lit all year round in both Summer and Winter. New for 2020 will be a collection of Wicker Reindeers and other items including sheep and mushrooms, all in several different sizes.

Noma believe that Micro lights are the future. These have been big sellers for Noma, including firework lights and curtain lights – and the latest range introduces new colours to add to the warm white lights.

Noma Classic- As a company with a rich history in lighting, Noma are the only lighting company to continue to offer the 240 watt bulb Heritage collection that features their

Pickwick, Victorian and Canterbury designs.

Not forgetting of course their Value range under the ‘Alderbrook’ brand.

The LED Nostalgia range is yet another lighting collection that grows its sales year on year and not forgetting Noma’s ‘Edison’ Bulb collection, that offers yet another alternative within their lighting ranges.

Finally, ‘Connectables’ – ideal for stately homes and other large properties as the connectables can connect up to 4,000 lights, all connected to just one mains socket.

So all in all, exciting times for Noma.

Harrogate is Noma’s BIG statement of their commitment to lighting where tradition links with innovation to keep one step ahead of the game.

Hall A – Stand A9 and A22 Tel: 01462 744 500 Email: sales@leisuregrow.com

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FEATURE Joe Davies

Stand C19

A Christmas Selection Box to Smile About Joe Davies always bring the ‘new’ when it comes to Harrogate, and this year is no exception with hundreds of fresh lines making their festive debut

J

oe Davies is a name that retailers rely on, for choice, product innovation and award-winning customer service. In fact, it’s a name staked on a hard-earned reputation of putting customers at the centre of everything they do for the past century.

The company celebrated 100 years in business in 2019, and as it moves into the next century with optimism, where better to start the journey than at the social setting of Harrogate Christmas & Gift, where boutique independent shops are valued just as much as multiples.

As well as winning 17 awards for first class customer service, Joe Davies pride themselves on always having new and exciting products at the best possible prices. What’s more everything is available in sensible quantities with carriage paid orders of just £100.

“The Harrogate show is perfectly timed to meet the needs of the seasonal buyer,” Sales Manager, David Cree says. “It also gives exhibitors the perfect opportunity to present their collections before the Spring Fair rush, and allows forward-thinking customers the chance to secure stock and to plan themes for the key Christmas period in a relaxed yet focused environment.”

For Harrogate 2020, Joe Davies are showcasing more than 750 items from their Christmas selection, with hundreds of new lines. The company is rightly famous for breadth of choice and unique items, and highlights this year include exciting gifts, jewellery collections and accessories, all beautifully merchandised and clearly priced.

Taking advantage of a new natural, ‘crafty’ Christmas trend, Joe Davies will be showcasing their ‘Snowtime Pine’ collection of Christmas houses, churches and bird boxes.

The pieces feature delightful pinecone detail, with many also containing LED features.

The Yuletide Craft collection was a great success in 2019 and there are a large number of additions to that range at Harrogate.

Mixing pine cones and wooden detail with bright Christmas colours there is something for all tastes and price points. There are also many new additions to the best-selling Soft Shades range of angels, Santas and reindeers, in on-trend pastel colours.

The use of tactile fabrics in vibrant colours on traditional Christmas décor pieces is a strong development for this year. Joe Davies ‘Xmas flock’ collection of Reindeers, stylish Christmas trees, T light holders, signs and tree decorations combine rich fabrics in burgundy, blues and black with traditional wood. With gold embellishments, they really are one to look out for this year.

Items featuring LED lights look set to still be big news for 2020 and Joe Davies has a huge range of product to suit. These include new additions to the best-selling Cost Christmas collection of Christmas houses and churches, and a brand-new collection of Glass Art LED Baubles.

The range consists of exquisitely detailed glass Christmas figurines encased in modern colour changing LED Baubles to create a perfect festive glow – and retail prices start at just £2.99.

The Joe Davies Equilibrium selection continues to be one of the UK’s hottest fashion

As well as winning 17 awards for first class customer service, Joe Davies pride themselves on always having new and exciting products at the best possible prices

jewellery brands and this year’s Christmas selection is their biggest yet. There are number of new additions, with brooches, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and scarves priced to hit the key retail price points, and everything comes exquisitely boxed. The company is also delighted to be launching Christmas Equilibrium Jewellery for Children at the fair.

With the continued success of their range of David’s Polka Dot ducks the company has launched a number of Christmas additions to further boost sales of this best-selling collection. Featuring Santa hats and cosy scarves these cute Christmas ducks are sure to be a real winner for the festive season.

Joe Davies are also the UK’s leading distributor of the Leonardo collection from Lesser and Pavey. At Harrogate they will be showcasing the best of the range’s new Christmas items, alongside some old favourites.

With the current challenging retail environment, it makes more sense than ever for retailers to keep control of their budgets and buy less, but more frequently.

“At Joe Davies our whole philosophy is to make buying as simple and easy as possible and this is where our little and often ordering system comes into its own,” says David. “We are geared towards helping the independent retailer with carriage paid orders of just £100, arranging delivery at our customers’ convenience and on a date to suit their requirements”. *For more information visit: www. joedavies.co.uk, email: info@ joedavies.co.uk, or call: 0161 975 6300. Harrogate show stand: C19

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Visit us at: Harrogate Christmas & Gift Stand D04 www.tallon.co.uk

Visit us at: NEC Spring Fair Stand 10: A40-B41 enquiries@tallon.co.uk

INTERVIEW Sterling Furniture

Completely committed to Christmas Phylip Mullan-Reid, Head of Visual Identity at Scotland’s famous Sterling Furniture chain, fell in love with the festive season as a young boy – and that sense of wonder and magic now drives his incredible merchandising aesthetic, as Sarah Welsh discovers…

W

hen Phylip Mullan-Reid was seven years old, he used to climb into the attic in his Belfast family home in the middle of summer to ‘celebrate Christmas.’

This involved him unpacking the tree and decorations, carefully dressing the tree and then sitting back to admire his work before dismantling his creation and secretly putting everything back into packing boxes.

“That far back I remember just being in love with the whole idea of Christmas,” Phylip, who now lives in Glasgow with his partner, recalls. “We didn’t have a huge amount of money growing up, but my mum, like me, loved Christmas and she always made everything beautiful. That’s where I think my fascination with it all comes from really.”

Phylip started out in retail on B&Q’s YTS scheme as a 16-year-old, but has come a very long way since then, and has been buying with Christmas in mind for the past two decades, becoming Head of Visual Identity at Sterling Furniture two years ago, having now worked for the brand for seven years in total.

Sterling is both one of Scotland’s leading furniture and homewares chains, with eight stores across the country including two in Glasgow and a vast flagship store in the town of Tillicoultry – or ‘Tilly’ as it’s more commonly known, and also the country’s ‘best kept retail secret.’ It’s a retail brand that was founded back in 1974 and has been growing ever since, but it is only the past few years that it has become famous for its amazing Christmas displays and product ranges.

Here Phylip lets Christmas in January in on just what it takes to put on what must surely be some of the best festive retail magic in the whole of the UK…

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How important is Christmas to Sterling Furniture as a business?

We’re Scotland’s largest independent furniture retailer, but in recent years home accessories have become really important to the business. Christmas displays and product are a very important part of our home stores, including Aberdeen, Martin and Frost in Edinburgh, London Road, Glasgow, and our new format store which

is in Uddingston, near Glasgow. Christmas is particularly important to our flagship store in Tillicoultry, which is a wonderful retail experience for the whole family and where you can easily spend a day.

The Tilly store is set in a former mill and sits over four levels, so it is atmospheric. It’s also a great floor space to work with – between 30 and 40,000 square feet, and because we also have a garden centre on site it’s a perfect space to create magical Christmas experience for people of all ages.

In a tough economic climate, retailers are having to evolve to survive. How does Christmas play its part for Sterling?

I’m a big believer in ‘retail to survive’, and what it comes down to is that people like to be entertained. Lots of us by the same festive products from the same retailers, year on year, but at Sterling we’re trying to do something different. For example, around 70% of our Christmas stock comes from the famous supplier Kaemingk, but by removing a lot of the branding and packaging we can make items look cleaner, more stylish and importantly more unique.

Our Tilly store is in quite a rural setting, around 45 minutes between Edinburgh and Glasgow – so we have to work hard to attract people here, but what we do is working. Last year we officially launched Christmas for the first time at Tilly and, aside from a little social media, we didn’t advertise the event. The surge of customers who turned out was astounding – we quadrupled the turnover of a normal day in the space of just four hours!

What’s your personal retail business background, and how has it played a part in building your unique festive expertise?

I always had a flair for design and detail, and having started out on the B&Q YTS scheme at 16 years old, became the youngest person in the company to work as a designer for kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. I’d also always loved fashion, so from there I moved into management at River Island, working in the flagship store in Manchester’s Arndale Centre.

20/12/2019 15:28

I then worked for Olympus Sports before moving to the interiors department at Bents Garden Centre in Warrington. I became part of the Christmas team there, which was exciting because they always put on a spectacular festive display, but then when I married we relocated to Scotland. I then worked in management for Dobbies before starting with Sterling some seven years back. I like to think that my varied retail background and 20 years of Christmas buying experience gives me something of a unique take on all things festive! It’s where I add value anyway.

What are your aims when you sit down to plan Christmas each year?

It can seem quite hard to ‘reinvent the wheel’ when it comes to planning Christmas at Sterling but my approach and aim is simple.

I want customers of all ages to delve into a fantasy world they can escape to, even if only for a few minutes. I want to see jaws drop when people see our amazing displays. I want adults to experience the childhood joy they felt at Christmas. That’s why we do things on the scale we do at Sterling.

I work very closely with our interiors buyer Isabelle Cadzow and we start by looking at the previous year’s sales and what product was successful. Looking ahead to the following year’s Christmas, we travel out to Germany during the December 12 months previously, to visit suppliers Kaemingk and now also Edelman, and it is following this trip that we firm up our themes. For 2019 we had seven themes in total, with four key themes across several of our outlets, and three ones exclusive to the Tilly store.

How long does it take to ‘install Christmas’ at the Tillicoultry store?

Christmas is really a 12-month job for me, but it takes around 12 weeks to put the themes together at Tilly, beginning in early August.

I work with a team of two carpenters, two decorators and two electricians, and then we recruit a team specially to process festive stock.

For example, last year we had 24 pallets from Kaemingk alone, it’s a massive job. I always think the devil is in the detail though and I position all the baubles myself.

Christmas really is about theatre for us at Sterling. For each theme we have four-metre square pods with a raised back wall and side return, and trees up to 13 feet tall.

What Christmas themes did you have for 2019?

A major theme we had was ‘Winter Wedding’, which actually counted as two, as there were two distinct parts to it. It was based around shades of white and silver with rhinestones and crystals.

We had a white tree on one side, a green one on the other, and one side was set out as a banquet, the other as a bride’s dressing room. To give you an idea of scale, the sets included seven full size lit chandeliers.

We had a ‘Frosted Sparkle’ theme, with colours of soft blue, white and silver, which depicted a magical winter barn scene, and a modern theme ‘Ring in the New’, based on shades of black, gold and silver and top hats and canes in the Christmas tree.

Another key theme aimed at children was ‘Santa’s Sweetshop’, with shades of red, turquoise and pink, and we also had ‘Merry Manhattan’ which depicted a scene in a New York apartment looking out over a snowy city, with a 10-foot tree suspended upside down.

Finally, we had ‘Sugar Plum’, pegged around shades of pink and silver, and the set included a mannequin on top of a 10-foot tree that rotated,

creating a life size music box.

What festive trends were big for you last Christmas?

Customers were buying a lot more glass decorations, and in terms of colours silver and white sold well, along with crystals. Pink was also popular for another year. I think we’ll see more red next year, and I think Kaemingk will also be bringing in a pale lavender shade for 2020. Wreaths and floral picks are also very big for us at Sterling and we work a lot with Floralsilk.

What suppliers and trade shows are important for you?

We’ve just started working with Edelman, and aside from Kaemingk and Floralsilk, we buy a lot from Festive, Premier, Sage and Coach House, which is based in Lancashire. By the time we get to Spring Fair Christmas is pretty much tied up for us, but it’s an important show for those last-minute touches.

Finally, how does festive decoration play out in your own home?

Christmas is a really big deal for me, and just because it forms a major part of my day job doesn’t mean I love it any less on a personal level! We have two trees, one 10 foot and one eight foot, in our Glasgow home, and usually I have the house fully dressed by Halloween, but it was a little later last year.

My partner and I throw an annual ‘Christmas reveal’ party which is usually the last weekend in November. It’s black tie and we literally roll out the red carpet. People might think I’m nuts but that’s okay – I just genuinely love Christmas! *For more information visit: www. sterlingfurniture.co.uk christmas in january 59

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FEATURE FDL

Firelamp Torch

Firelamp

MovinďŹ&#x201A;ame

Quality, cost and Innovation from FDL

synchrone set

F

DL would like to welcome everyone to see them at Spring Fair in Hall 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stand 2D02 FDL will continue to supply the wholesale, retail and commercial design markets with the focus very much on QUALITY, COST & INNOVATION. The company will be presenting many new lines for 2019, extending the range of firelamps and movin flame candle sets.

They will also be introducing a new range of XL-XP light strings and XP SYNCHRONE RGB remote controllable light strings.

FDL would like to invite you to make an appointment to view their complete range of products in their South Manchester showroom.

Alternatively , they can have one of their sales team visit you at your preferred location

FIRELAMP TM XP-XL

FDL firelamp range has been extended for 2019 FDL supplies lamps with both E14 and E27 fittings.

64 & 96 Surface Mounted Diode (SMD) versions are available.

FDL has the FIRELAMP TORCH, which has proven to be extremely popular for both the summer and winter seasons and have introduced the FIRELAMP TORCH with solar power for 2019.

They believe that there are many inferior copies on the market and suggest you come and visit them to see the original FIRELAMP range for yourself.

MOVIN FLAME TM

synchrone ropelight

FDL now has an extensive range of movin flame candles for 2019 The collection includes sets of 3, with both timer and remote in a variety of colours and diameters.

FDL also supplies single candles, with timer

and remote in various colours, diameters and wax effects.

The company has a giant 15cm diameter candle range, which can be powered by battery, giving an incredible 1000 hours of burning time.

Alternatively , they can be used in conjunction with the MOVIN FLAME power pack and plugged directly into the mains.

FAIRYBELL

FDL will be introducing new editions to the Fairybell range in 2019 The range includes includes Wall trees of 2m,4m,6m & 8m Door trees of 2m.

Free Standing 2m,3m,& 4m trees. Flagpole trees of 6m,8m,10m & 12m.

XP RANGE

FDL has added XP-SYNCHRONE RGB light strings and XP-XL light strings to the already extensive range of XP products.

The XP SYNCHRONE is a remote controlled set with 8 colour modes, 6 function effects and 2 speed options.

The XL- XP is a 10mm LED with cap can be supplied either static or with a random twinkle. This product is proving popular in both the commercial and retail sectors.

CANDLED

Exclusive U.K. distributors for this LED candle range made in Devon in the heart of the Tamar Valley. Candled pride themselves on being a luxury brand with a real wax finish and an elegant life-like flame. The candles are realistic in colour, texture, wick and flicker.

Now used in the National Trust and event venues across the U.K. They are a perfect addition to any setting.

They look forward to seeing you at both Harrogate Hall M stand M27 and Spring Fair in Hall 5 Stand A61

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UPCOMING SHOWS

HARROGATE The St. George Hotel, Harrogate

11th - 15th January 2020 8am - 10pm

SPRING FAIR

Birmingham NEC

2nd - 6th February 2020 Hall 5, Stands 5A60-C61 & 5A66-C67

Stand C3

PREVIEW Heyland and Whittle

Soap creation When you pick up your bar of Heyland and Whittle traditional soap or use some of our liquid body wash, you probably don’t think much about the thousands of years of evolution that have gone into them.

soap or purchase it from small companies, but factories started to be built in Italy, France and Spain.

The demand for soap products increased after this, with it still being fairly expensive to purchase. Even when more companies developed their own recipes - most of which used plant or animal byproducts - the cost stayed quite high.

Soap prices finally started to fall after 1791 when a new process was discovered for soap making. A Frenchman called LeBlanc found that certain alkalines reacted with the fats used in soap making to result in a finished product quicker and easier.

I

Heyland and Whittle’s soap

n fact, soap has undergone numerous changes over the centuries, transforming from something you might not recognise into one of the most readily available products in many countries.

Here’s exactly how soap became the products you know and love today:

The start of soap There is evidence that soap-like substances were used as early as 2800 BC, with a material found in clay cylinders during the excavation of ancient Babylon. This soap was made from animal fats that were boiled with ashes, creating a product that was effective but not necessarily great smelling.

Although soap did exist at this time, it wasn’t really used for personal cleansing.

Instead, it was primarily used for cleaning utensils and to wash wool for the textile industry.

Increasing popularity of soap While soap started to be more common by around 600 AD, it wasn’t until the eighth century that it was mass produced.

Previously, people would make their own

At Heyland and Whittle, we make our solid soaps according to a traditional recipe that includes natural oils, an alkaline and essential oils. This results in lovely soft and gentle soap that smells amazing and is incredibly effective. Using the unique Heyland & Whittle recipe, only the purest ingredients, including a vast array of essential oils, herbs and spices, are blended to create these handmade soaps. We use only natural colouring such as madder root, walnut leaves, nettle leaves and turmeric.

When the soap is ready, it is hand cut and weighed into the different shapes and sizes so it is ready for packaging. In fact, it is the job of just one person to cut and weigh every single piece of soap!

The soap is then boxed up into individual packages, all ready for the final stage of its journey - getting sent out to you. christmas in january 63

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FEATURE Konstsmide

Stand C5-E51

POUNDS NOT PERCENTAGES It is always a pleasure to visit Konstsmide and to catch up on their plans and thoughts for the forthcoming show period. Long known for their attention to quality in the lighting sector of the industry, Richard Jerrom their U.K. Managing Director told me that their brand will never lower their prices to meet specific buyer percentage requirements, hence our headline!

R

ichard explained “We have found that garden centres are increasingly looking to buy with a percentage mark-up in mind. Sadly this results in certain garden centres looking for cheaper items to give them the percentage mark-up they require for their perceived retail price.

This cheapening of the price results in a cheapening of the product.

In our opinion, a far better option is to select a branded quality product in the same category, which maybe a little more expensive, but selling at a higher price point that the

quality item can attract. This gives them more pounds in the till as opposed to an own-brand look-a-like.

So the branded product might cost you more and the margin less, but the Pounds profit will be higher.

Generally when the public visit a garden centre they are not buying price sensitive products, so why stock cheaper own-branded items? At the end of the day, the customer benefits and the garden centre is in a win, win situation .”

Richard further made the point that you pay your staff in pounds and not percentages!

Another point he made was that the quality branded product is better made and will last longer, a thing Konstsmide pride themselves on.

This, of course, will have an environmental impact as well. Instead of buying the “one year throw-away” cheap product that impacts on the environment, you can have a wellmade Christmas item for many years to come.

Konstsmide are famous as specialists in all forms of lighting and whilst this magazine concentrates on Christmas related products, their other lighting assortment that specializes in outdoor lighting for your house and garden also enjoys a very good reputation.

Any company that has a long history such as Konstsmide (founded in 1942) and one that has never deviated from its core products must be doing something right!

With the growth of UK on-line sales, Konstsmide have seen on-line sales increasing with the likes of Amazon and Wayfair.

Water Lanterns have been huge sellers in 2019, so 2020 will see plenty of new designs to whet the appetites of buyers at the shows in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Other ranges well worth checking out are as follows:• Laser-cut wooden villages ideal for Multiples.

• Acrylics – Plenty of new designs for 2020 • App-controlled lights for both indoor and outdoor use • LED party lights in all shapes, colours and sizes.

• Dream Catcher – A circular and very eyecatching display light to brighten any room Virtually founded on their ‘Welcome’ lights, Konstsmide’s wooden and metal welcome lights come in all shapes, sizes and price points.

LED continues to lead the way, although their filament bulb still remains very popular.

Antique White light or Amber as they call it, has been a big success in Sweden and Richard believes that this will also be the case in the UK.

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SHOW OFFERS Plenty of mouth-watering show offers to bring plenty of cheer to buyers visiting their stand. The Harrogate stand has been redesigned to show the many benefits of buying Konstsmideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products.

PACKAGING A top quality product deserves top quality packaging and Konstsmide have always excelled in producing packaging that complements the brand. As a global supplier their packaging is both sturdy and includes instructions printed in 20 different languages illustrating their European wide appeal.

Richard confirmed that their 2020 prices will be about the same as 2019 and in certain instances some prices will be slightly lower With the future very much in mind the company have appointed Oscar Johannson as their e-commerce specialist to explore and increase their on-line business for not just the U.K. but the whole group. Also their website, which was relaunched in 2019, has added information for all customers and consumers alike.

Generally when the public visit a garden centre they are not buying price sensitive products, so why stock cheaper own-branded items?

At the end of the day, the customer benefits and the garden centre is in a win, win situation .â&#x20AC;?

Having driven up to Holmewood in the most foul weather conditions (relentless rain that created poor visibility) at least the homeward journey saw an improvement in driving conditions.

Konstsmide is at Harrogate - Stand M22 and NEC Hall 5 Stand 5C50-E51 christmas in january 67

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FEATURE Davies Products

Stand B5

Unwrapping a New Look for Christmas Family business Davies Products is taking 500 new lines to Harrogate Christmas & Gift this year, and they’ve also rebranded their festive showcase, as Gemma Davies told Christmas in January As a family business, we always make every effort to give our customers the best possible experience. We pride ourselves on our personal approach, and our knowledgeable staff ensure we offer superior customer service.

Our longevity is in no small part due to our relationships with our customers. We listen, try to understand their needs and develop ranges that they want. Our customers operate in an ever-demanding retail environment and we strive to provide them with the products that meet the expectations of the retail consumer in both price and style.

D

avies Products are nothing if not Christmas veterans.

Since 1947 the family company has been supplying its product ranges to some of the best-known names in wholesale and retail, both based here in Britain and internationally.

The company has quite rightly earned an unrivalled reputation as one of the gift industry’s most reliable and well-respected suppliers of Christmas, Halloween, Party, Floristry and Easter-themed product. But why not see for yourself at Harrogate’s Christmas & Gift Fair where Davies Products will launch their festive collection for 2020 with more than 500 new lines…

We hear your Christmas ranges have been rebranded for 2020?

Yes, we have a new look! We updated our branding and packaging across our Christmas range to co-ordinate with our year-round ranges.

The new packaging is simple, monochrome and allows our customers to mix and match between ranges and seasons, and the reaction so far has been amazing.

What does Davies Products have in store for Christmas 2020?

We have a wide selection of products within our Christmas range with wonderful tree decorations, beautiful baubles, fabulous florals, including clip and stem flowers, foliage, picks, wreaths and garlands, room décor and pre-lit

How do customers order from Davies Products? decorations. As always, they reflect current trends and have our unique emphasis on quality and value. Our co-ordinated ranges make merchandising easy.

You have hundreds of new items every year.

How do you bring it all together?

Our in-house designers and buyers are constantly listening to the needs of our customers and following trends to produce exciting ranges specifically for the UK market.

We create goods that expertly combine great style and value and are truly exclusive to Davies Products, offering diversity and originality to the customer. Our products are all delivered in our own branded packaging and are designed for effective retail display.

What colours and themes are your focus for 2020?

Blush pink continues to rise in popularity and we have beautiful soft toned pieces throughout our floral and decor ranges. They blend perfectly with our Frosted and Champagne selections.

This year we are showing strong ranges of traditional core colours, as well as the fashion shades and on-trend accents covering everything from maximalist glitzy to contemporary chic styles. If you are looking for something different, come and see us at Harrogate!

What are the factors which have contributed to Davies Products longevity do you think?

Come and see us on stand B5 at Harrogate!

Our items are displayed and priced clearly to make your selection easy and our friendly team will be on hand to welcome and assist you.

Our dedicated sales and customer service teams are always available to offer advice on product selection and availability, ordering and delivery – and our experienced, professional sales reps cover the whole of the UK and Ireland We also offer an online ordering facility for our customers. Registering for this service gives you flexibility to order at your convenience from the full range with live stock and account information.

You can also see us at Spring Fair, Hall 9, Stands: F20/G21, or visit our extensive showroom in Liverpool featuring all of our ranges.

What else do you do apart from Christmas?

Aside from our massive festive collection, Davies Products cover all the main seasons. Our Scream Machine range has all you need for a truly terrifyingly Halloween season with decorations, props and accessories for suitable all the family.

Our fabulous Spring range is built around our very successful Easter collection with beautiful decorations for the home as well as all the cute bunnies and chicks you could wish for. Plus, we have our Floral and Home Decor selection which is available all year. *For more information visit: www. daviesproducts.co.uk, email: info@ daviesproducts.co.uk or call: 0151 922 4246. Harrogate show stand: B5

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Supplying the wholesale, retail and commercial design markets with the focus on quality, cost and innovation.

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FDL Festive Decoration & Lighting Ltd. T +44 (0)161 4747 772 F +44 (0)161 4747 882 FDL@FDL.Li www.FDL.Li

FEATURE Richard Lang

Stand A4

Lang’s at Christmas

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hristmas is a time for much loved traditions and spending time with family and friends. We delight in dressing the house and home with treasured decorations that have been collected over the years, wrapping presents and filling stockings with gifts that will bring a smile to someone we hold dear.

It’s these special moments that have inspired our design team in creating our new Christmas ranges with something for all and pieces that will become firm favourites for many years to come.

Some of the collections that will be on our wish list include…

TARTAN ROBIN with tweed and tartan fabrics to create warmth and texture.

RUSTIC CHRISTMAS a cosy woodland retreat look with natural finishes.

STAG & FRIENDS with hand painted woodland animals and frosted berry stems.

PAWSOME CHRISTMAS a bright and jolly range of gifts for pets and their owners.

FUNNY CHRISTMAS because what’s life without a little humour?

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EWE sees our famous sheep wrapping up warm for Christmas.

JOLLY KIDS, North Pole magic that the little ones will love.

Other ranges include Peace, Joy & Mistletoe, Traditional Christmas, Mooey Christmas, Christmas Donkey, Icy Penguins, Simple Christmas, Dachshund through the snow and more.

View our new Christmas ranges at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair, Stand A4.

www.richardlang.co.uk Tel:01332 340927

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HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT Harrogate Convention Centre 12th - 15th January 2020

HALL H! ALL DIVISIONS - all to ourselves SPRING FAIR NEC Birmingham • 2nd - 6th February 2020 Hall 5 Stand J80

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PREMIER DECORATIONS LIMITED www.premierdec.com

Tel: 020-8624 5555 • e-mail: sales@premierdec.com

FEATURE Culinary Concepts

Stand M24

A Culinary Christmas in Harrogate Over the past three years, the Culinary Concepts Christmas Collection has gone from strength-to-strength and 2020 has seen the launch of their biggest ever collection to date.

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rom exquisite hanging decorations and baubles to cheerful garlands, their luxurious decorations have all been beautifully designed and crafted, with vintage styling, etched glass and elaborately beaded decorations all taking centre stage this year. They’ve also extended their festive collections to feature stylishly enamelled stars, hearts and reindeer, intricately etched glass jars and perfume bottles plus a whole new range of glass and jewel studded tea light holders to add a warming glow to the wintry evenings.

With further additions to the ever-popular Stag range including majestic candle stands, punch bowls and hurricanes, you’re sure to find everything you’ll need to create a truly magical display this festive season.

To learn even more on their Harrogate offering, go to page 10 to read our ‘Coffee Break’ interview with Culinary Concept’s senior trade sales manager Simon Joy. Visit them at the Christmas Home and Gift Fair in Hall M, Stand M24 to see their full Christmas Collection for yourself. Be sure to ask about the special show offers that are available exclusively to this show.

Email:simon@culinaryconcepts.co.uk Tel: 01252 852235 www.culinaryconceptsliving.com

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FEATURE Smart Garden

Stand Q1

Smart Garden Christmas We catch up with company M.D. Jonathan Stobart to learn more of their plans for Harrogate *Having interviewed the Head of Content for Spring Fair this week (Suzanne Ellingham), I know that the show organisers are excited about you exhibiting in 2020 and the size of show stand you have booked. Please can you give some detail about how you go about laying out show stands, and the visual merchandising aesthetic you take to shows? Will this differ markedly for Harrogate and SF?

as over 200 new products. Also completely new for 2020 is a range of Christmas Pet products under our Zöon brand. Pet products is a new product group at Smart but already generating significant customer interest. We know that pet owners spend considerable amounts of money on their dogs and cats at Christmas so we have developed a range of Christmas goodies to tap into that part of Christmas too.

*Also SGP are increasingly being spoken about as a brand with its finger on the pulse in terms of product trends, and breadth of product

We are using a similar design for the space although we have a much bigger footprint than last year with nearly double the quantity of products on offer.

This also includes several new merchandising solutions since we aim to make it as easy as possible for our retail partners to display the products to best visual effect in-store to maximise sales. We will be using very similar stand designs at both Harrogate and Spring Fair.

*How important are Harrogate Christmas & Gift and Spring Fair as shows to you as a business?

I am sure that most Christmas product suppliers would agree that Harrogate is the most important trade fair for the Christmas market so if one is serious about becoming recognised as a serious player in the Christmas sector, one really needs to be there. Smart has exhibited under the Three Kings brand for the last two years and the response at the show has been instrumental in Smart investing in extensive ongoing product development.

While the traffic for Christmas at the Spring Fair is not as heavy as at Harrogate, it makes it easier for those customers based further south to still be able to see the Christmas offerings available while as an exhibitor one can also access visitors who have come to look at non-Christmas ranges.

*Also SGP are increasingly being spoken about as a brand with its finger on the pulse in terms of product trends, and breadth of product - can you talk a little about how you have branched out in the last couple of years, what product areas sold particularly well for you for xmas 2019 and what you predict will be big news for 2020.

We are still finding our feet in this exciting category but hopefully learning fast what type of products sell. As a business we place a high priority on genuine product design and development – sometimes this means coming up with complete new product concepts while also being able to develop ranges with new features and designs where we have established encouraging sales the year before. For next season this will include extensions to our popular range of Gonks and Festive Characters, as well as new figurines and in-lit statuettes, all of which we hope to be big hits for 2020.

*Just how important now is Christmas to you as a business?

It is becoming increasingly important to us not just as a significant product group in terms of value but also due to seasonality, since sales are made in the second half of the year which helps to slightly counter-balance the higher volume of sales we achieve with our spring and summer collections in the first half of the year. And, unlike sunshine in summer in the UK, Christmas is guaranteed to happen every year! *Finally to mention the dreaded B-word has Brexit affected you at all as a business, with Christmas product in particular in mind?

Our Christmas business not been materially impacted by Brexit, apart from product cost increases due to the weakening of the UK£ since the referendum, while consumers seem to still be spending heavily on Christmas despite any concerns they may have about the economy at large.

*What collections/product are you showcasing at Harrogate?

We will be showing our complete collection at both shows, which comprises the best sellers staying in the range from 2019 as well

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PREVIEW Christmas & Gift Show

Craft-Filled Christmas Joy Stand Q12 Web: www.artcuts.co.uk

For crafts and gifts specialists Artcuts, Christmas & Gift is a show with business, geographical and nostalgic importance, all rolled into one…

Although family business Artcuts are based in Surrey, as founder and owner Derek Cox will proudly tell you, its roots lie in Scotland.

Derek, who is himself originally from Dunfermline in Fife, says that this is one reason why Harrogate Christmas & Gift is a retail show with real resonance and importance for this crafts and gifts company.

“We went to Harrogate five years ago initially, then had a couple of years away and came back last year,” Derek says. “This will be our fourth outing to Harrogate and for us the beautiful North Yorkshire location is really our second town, we spend so much time there.

“We’ve always had a real Scottish theme to the business, and are known for our distinctive Tartan decorations. A lot of our trade comes from Scotland and the North of England.

“Harrogate is a show close to our heart because of this, but also because of the relaxed ambience, how social it is and because it is a show completely dedicated to Christmas.”

Artcuts has been trading since 2012 and with a huge amount of repeat custom. 2020 marks a big year for the brand as it launches

a brand-new website dedicated to the retail trade this month, showcasing the many beautiful Christmas decorations, craft shapes and bespoke, personalised designs it produces.

“Our product emphasis is on design and quality of materials,” Derek explains. “We believe in using the finest materials, such as top grade birchwood direct from Finland and our authentic hand silk-screened Chiyogami papers from Japan.

“We also use Liberty of London fabrics alongside other fine Tartan material.

Everything is designed and made by us in our workshops in Surrey, and in terms of new ranges for 2020 we will be offering different finishes, different shops and new styles of wood, including new veneers.”

As well as Christmas & Gift, retailers from multiples to independents will be able to visit Artcuts at Spring Fair, Top Drawer, the Scotland Spring Trade Show and Christmasworld in Frankfurt in the first few months of this year. *For more information visit: www.artcuts. co.uk. Harrogate show stand: Q12

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FEATURE Festive Lights

Stand Q6

Two Decades of Innovative Illumination Best known for their LED expertise, Festive Lights have been leading a lighting revolution for the past 20 years due to their championing of exciting brands…

These include Festive Lights Ltd, DRiBOX Ltd, Disklok UK Ltd, and new venture MiRiDER Ltd and all add up to strong domestic and international sales. If that wasn’t enough, the group also offers third party fulfilment from its distribution centre.

Two years ago, in the run-up to 2017’s festive season, Festive Light’s forwardthinking team saw a golden opportunity with the brand Twinkly. Having seen Twinkly’s huge social media following in action during those months, Festive Light’s bosses met with the company, fell in love with their vision and secured an online exclusive for 2018 with John Lewis.

T

alk about a lightbulb moment!

From its humble beginnings in a Christmas shop back in 1999, lighting specialists Festive Lights has since taken the worlds of trade and retail by storm.

Since its industry start 20 years ago, Festive Lights has embraced the online world and developed into a significant multichannel and multi-national operation serving hundreds of B2B and B2C customers every day.

The company is best known for its comprehensive, market leading, connectable lighting systems, life size LED sculptures, LED bulbs and next day delivery.

“We spread the joy of LED lighting across many industries for all occasions,” says Marketing Manager, Louise Gray. “Whether you’re a commercial decorator, attraction, shopping centre, wholesaler or retailer. “And we stock lighting ranges for weddings, events and seasonal decorating, all year round, from stock or bespoke products and projects.”

Festive Lights has a 50-strong work force who enjoy a diverse mix of challenges across the brand’s group of companies.

“New features for 2020 include an advanced FX creator and music integration dongle, video upload function, and an online sharing platform,” Louise says.

“We knew then that this was the start of a lighting revolution,” Louise reveals. “Twinkly is the world’s most advanced decorative lighting system, giving the user ultimate control through their smartphones or tablets, via its powerful APP. The range started with tree lights and has now grown to include icicles, festoons, curtain and cluster lights, all capable of amazing effects and animations.”

Twinkly’s patented technology allows precise mapping of every LED bulb within a display via the device’s camera, cutting out the need for an engineer and giving anyone ‘the power’ to create a show-stopping lighting display.

The brand’s retail range offers hundreds of pre-set functions to choose from, but you can also get creative and make your own as well as grouping and syncing multiple sets or display areas together. You can even send commands to a display via virtual assistant

Alexa or Google Home kits.

“New features for 2020 include an advanced FX creator and music integration dongle, video upload function, and an online sharing platform,” Louise says.

“We launched the retail range at Harrogate last year, with great success, collecting like-minded national and independent retailers, supported by interactive point of sales and specially arranged brand ambassadors on key sales weekends. 2020’s offering will be bigger and better, with amazing new features and floor displays to engage audiences.

“Having successfully test launched the Professional version at selected projects throughout the country over the past few months, we are now ready to also introduce this game changer to everyone. The vision was to have the ability to control entire displays - even whole towns - remotely, and thanks to Twinkly’s clever use of 3/4G internet controllers and a cloud-based platform, this is now a reality!

“Project based lighting will be forever changed with this system, so we are excited to showcase it exclusively in the UK at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift fair. Pop along to the entrance to Hall Q to discover more!”

*For more information visit: www.festive-lights.com.

Harrogate show stand: Q6

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FEATURE Jingles

Jingles – All The Way! It’s been a hectic 12 months for Jingles, and looking ahead to Christmas 2020 this fast-growing festive company is expecting more of the same…

S

et in the rolling hills of County Down in Northern Ireland, Jingles are rightly proud of their Christmas heritage. In fact, 2020 will see their 30th year within the Christmas

industry.

As Managing Director, Iain Mercer, says, they have seen massive changes during this time. “However, we at Jingles have always tried to keep ahead of the curve, offering quality and service as our priorities,” he adds.

A few months ago, on 25 November, Jingles opened the doors to customers at their 34,000 square foot showrooms, where they launched the 2020 Jingles collection – featuring their twelve trends of Christmas.

2019 saw a year of expansion for the Jingles brand within the UK, and now with a team of six area sales managers, they cover every corner of Britain and Ireland.

Jingles have built their brand on the principles of quality and service and as such have a selective customer base, recognising that the Jingles brand is best served in a selected number of quality garden centres and gift stores and resisting the temptation to flood the market through the internet and discount stores.

Each year 80 to 90% of the Jingles range is new, offering a clean, fresh look year after year.

And when it comes to value for money, Iain is adamant that Jingles are at the front of the queue, offering extremely good prices across the range.

Jingles is best known in the industry for their innovation in Christmas lighting, introducing the Diamond Cut series of lights in both low voltage connectable and their Christmas Tree Lights series. This year has seen the successful launch of several new light ranges, and 2020 will see more development around the connectable range.

Jingles have now put a greater emphasis on developing their trends and head buyer, Elise Mercer, has spent much of the year developing their 12 trends of Christmas which have been fantastically received in the showroom.

Whilst the traditional colour trends with a few twists remain the most popular commercially, several of the new fashions are reflected in a stroll down Carnaby Street in London where you will enter the world of Orpheus. Or take a look at the brand’s ’Boys and their Toys’ range with a modern take on decorations, including a fully modern Gramophone – retailing for £1,200 - which will be offered in a draw into which each

customer attending Jingles show stand at Spring Fair will be entered.

Jingles have also increased the size of their stand at Spring Fair this year by 400%, where a full selection of the showroom will be on display.

The Jingles team look forward to seeing customers old and new at the NEC, check out the range on the website – www. merceragencies.com (simply call them on 02892 619881 for the password), or have one of the brand’s knowledgeable sales team call you. *Spring Fair stand number: 5A60 christmas in january 79

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