Gifts Today

Independently audited

25

ABC circulation of 7,100 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

Month: March/April 2015

Issue: 4

Volume: 26

SIA Home Fashion Unit 7, The Votec Centre, Hambridge Lane, Newbury RG14 5TN

Telephone: 01635 32868 Website: www.sia-homefashion.co.uk Email: salesuk@sia-homefashion.com

NEW

O N E S TO P SHOP FOR P E R S O N AL I S E D GIFTS est: 2004

NEW

Royal Crown Collection

NEW PERSONALISED LICENSED GIFTS

FOR THE HOME

FOR THE GARDEN

FOR HIM

FOR HER

GIFTS FOR GIRLS

GIFTS FOR BOYS

All products are designed and manufactured at our Stoke On Trent premises

DISCOVER THE FULL RANGE AT:

w w w. p e r s o n a l i s e d m e m e n t o . c o . u k Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Contents

Regulars 6 12 20 26 69

April 2015

News Exhibition News GA News Trade Talk New Products

Retail 18

Retailer Profile Penny Franks had the pleasure to question Afzal Sachak, senior buyer, Wyevale Garden Centres to find out why they are such a household name

27

Brian Wiseman At last! Brian Wiseman offers words of optimism

46 Rachel Parkin Rachel takes a look at technology, social media and the whole internet

P22

64 Grass Roots

P34

We had the pleasure to speak with many retailers during Spring Fair

Gifts Today team

Features 22

Handmade Flowers Flora or forna? The pull of handmade flowers

Editor Penny Franks penny@lemapublishing.co.uk

34 Licensed Gifts

Assistant Editor

What makes licensed products have such huge appeal?

Paul Donnelley pauld@lemapublishing.co.uk

52

Advertisement Manager

Beach Themed Gifts Dust of the sand, bring on the sunshine!

Mark Horsnell mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

54 Christmas Gifts

Group Editor

P52

Mirella Cestaro mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Red or Green? What’s Santa saying this year?

66 Collectables

Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

What’s hot in the world of collectables?

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Profiles

Production Director

24 SIA Home Fashion

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

What’s happening at SIA? Take a closer look

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Show Previews

Media Solutions Manager

28 Pulse London 50 The London Stationery Show 55 BCTF

Bradley Mason bradleymason@hotmail.co.uk

Lema Publishing Ltd

PUBLISHING

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930 A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 7,100 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

P54

Show Reviews 48 Ambiente A look back at Ambiente

62 Spring Fair Positive feeling during Spring Fair 2015

Pulse is changing.

Exclusive products Cutting edge trends Inspirational insight Curated by experts. All year round.

Be part of the change at pulse-london.com 10–12 May 2015, Olympia London

Message from the Editor www.gifts-today.co.uk Twitter: @giftstodaymag of these coveted awards – we’ve highlighted the winners in this issue, turn to page 10.

The GA continues to gain momentum and this year has demonstrated the strength of the association as membership numbers continue to climb. GA membership development manager Simone Rose reported that the association signed 27 members and more than 500 retailer subscribers during the early year trade shows and Spring Fair. If you’re not a member, perhaps now is the time to really start considering this? There are so many great benefits and as an industry, we should ensure that our association is fully supported.

What else does this issue bring? Well, we have a great handmade flowers feature. SIA Home Fashion have a huge stronghold on this category, producing both fauna and flora ranges – all being meticulously handmade, with each petal hand crafted, which in turn means that no two flowers are the same. The great advantage is that not only can they be bought as a gift, for home floral decoration

Gift of the Year 2015

The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

“

The Gift of the Year awards were also announced at Spring Fair.

Congratulations to the many deserved companies who won one of these coveted awards – we’ve highlighted the winners in this issue, turn to page 10

“

E

aster is nearly upon us. Spring is starting to show signs on being on its way! Are your customers on egg hunts or are they searching out that something alternative and perhaps looking for gifting options instead? It’s amazing how many now shy away from the traditional egg giving and opt for a gift instead – I for one fall into this category (although I’m not adverse to a little chocolate!).

So, what do we have in store for you this issue? Well, it’s our first opportunity to take a look back at Spring Fair and what this meant for many this year. From information received, we can see that visitor numbers held steady, exhibitors were in excess of 3,000 across 14 sectors this year and it would appear from chatting to exhibitors and visitors, that buoyant business was conducted throughout the duration of the show. The show organisers have stated that perhaps around £3.6 billion worth of orders were placed as a direct result of participation at the show.

We spoke to many exhibitors to gain their views (take a look at our review, starting on page 61) and also to an array of retailers who were in attendance – you can see what they had to say by taking time to read our Grass Roots this issue on page 64.

The Gift of the Year awards were also announced at Spring Fair. Congratulations to the many deserved companies who won one

or to, for example, replicate perhaps a bridal bouquet, they are also fantastic for dressing displays in-store. Turn to page 22 to find out what developments have been taking place in this category.

To ensure that we keep you busy, you will also find great previews in this issue of upcoming events – BCTF, the London Stationery Show and Pulse London. All of these are definitely worth a visit, with each offering something different. For example, BCTF has been promoting British handmade giftware for 40 years and takes place 12th-14th April, The London Stationery Show (28th-29th April) offers buyers one of the widest selection of stationery and writing products all in one place, with everything from the everyday to high end, whilst over at Pulse London you’ll find the newest, most exclusive, directional and unique products, inspirational industry insight and cutting edge trend forecasts. If you’re not already registered, now is the time. Take a look at our previews in this issue which will give you a great insight into what to expect from these this year.

It doesn’t end there! We also take a look at different product categories (Licensed Gifts, page 34, Beach Themed Gifts, page 52, Christmas Gifts, page 58 and also the Collectables category, page 66).

What more can I say? Apart from happy reading!

NEWS

regular

Premier Decorations finds the solution Premier Decorations have come up with a solution to the problem of replacing batteries in LED devices. There are three versions of this product available that convert products that run off two, three and four AA or AAA batteries to mains power with use of a transformer.

This means that all battery operated displayed products look bright and sharp at all times. Then at the end of the day, with the flick of a switch these can all be switched off. All connecting 3M leads are interchangeable so you can combine AA and AAA. Only £15 for each adapter.

Baby Jorja – the star of the show Widdop Bingham announced its arrival on the Instagram scene by hosting a fun photography competition during Spring Fair.

Customers were invited to take a photo of themselves with supporting cast and props and post them on Widdop’s instagram page. The winner was judged by staff back at Head Office and here she is, sweet Jorja Muir with her Scottish rep, Paul McAleese. She (or rather her Mum Jillian) won £50 of Colonial Candles from the brand new collection of fragranced candles launched at Spring Fair.

Pick a card — any card Cartamundi, one of the world’s market leaders in playing cards and card games, has announced the arrival in late 2015 of its exciting new series of cards dedicated to magic card tricks.

The range — under the name Carta Magic — was developed in collaboration with a professional magician and offers four collections of cards and special tokens with varying numbers of tricks for children from age eight upwards and adults.

Every pack contains full instructions on a variety of tricks including mind reading, card finding, making things disappear, prediction, name and number guessing, speed reading and more, all offered in rising levels of difficulty.

The four packs are Carta Magic 25 Tricks (£9.99), Carta Magic 50 tricks (£14.99), Carta Magic 80 Tricks (£19.99) and Carta Magic Tadaa (£9.99), a special starter pack of five carefully chosen magic tricks for the younger magician with a magic wand for extra fun.

Trudi Bishop, Head of Marketing and Licensing, Cartamundi Group, says: “Demand for magic tricks is always strong — and card tricks are their most popular form. But it’s also important not to take the market for granted. The Carta Magic range has been carefully researched, packaged and designed to ensure a high quality, educational and above all magical experience.”

HAPPY 80TH BIRTHDAY LINDESAY Founder of Gemma, one of the UK market leaders in licensed greetings; Lindesay RuddClarke turned 80 years old on 3 March.

The company celebrated by presenting Lindesay with a unique card, specially commissioned by the Gemma studio. The card featured all the brands that the company has signed since Lindesay and his late wife Margaret started the company back in 1985. From My Little Pony (its first licence signing) and Pokemon, to new signings including Jurassic World, Teletubbies and World of Warriors, the card really was a trip down memory lane for Lindesay.

David Wesson, CEO of Gemma said: “Lindesay, a real pioneer in the licensing and toy industry, is not only our founding partner but also a real gentleman and everyone at Gemma wishes him a very happy 80th birthday.”

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PRODUCTION CAPACITY IS FIRING UP Portmeirion Group has announced it will be investing £1.5 million in a new kiln and other equipment for the factory following a period of strong growth and an increased demand for its British-made products.

The Stoke-on-Trent based business has appointed Burslem-based kiln builder Therser (UK) Ltd to design and manufacture a bespoke Glost Roller Tunnel Kiln, which will be installed at the manufacturer’s factory later this year.

Phil Atherton, Group Sales and Marketing Director at Portmeirion Group, said: “Since 2009, demand at our factory has grown dramatically. By investing in a new kiln and other equipment we are able to increase our factory output by 50%. We are delighted to be working with Therser UK, a local company who understand the needs of businesses based within The Potteries.”

News of this investment follows the announcement that the Group are expecting to report record revenues for 2014 of more than £61 million, approximately 5 per cent above last year. This will mark the sixth consecutive year Portmeirion Group has achieved record sales.

Over 2000 brand new gifts 7500+ lines to choose from Only £100 minimum order ‘Little & Often’ ordering system FREE next day delivery Award winning customer service

Apothecary Vases

mudpie® Circa Style

Visage Dog Cushions

Equilibrium Aqua Marine Necklaces

White Diamond Lanterns

Leonardo Message Hearts

Metallic Message Tea-lights

Progressive Gifts Greats Awards 2014

12

Times Winners

Best Service to the Independent Retailer

Equilibrium for Girls

Leonardo Ditzy Daisy

Joe Davies (Manchester) Limited 149 Broadstone Road, Reddish Stockport SK5 7GA Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Great Service • Great Products • Great Prices

NEWS

regular

Exceptional Spring Fair for Village Candle Village Candle had quite an exceptional Spring Fair and their new fragrances and candle accessory collections were extremely well received. New accounts are continually opened on a daily basis as brand exposure throughout the UK and Europe becomes increasingly prominent. The secret to their incredible growth is simple. They offer a very high quality product at the best prices available on the market. Over 60 different fragrances of wax in 8 formats and 90 different designs of candle accessory collections are offered within their range.

Don’t just take their word for it, contact the sales office to request some free of charge samples. These will be despatched with immediate effect so you can experience the quality first hand and compare them against other leading brands. To request samples, order a copy of their new catalogue, visit the showroom or have a sales agent call please contact them on the details given below. Alternatively, visit their brand new website where all products and company details can be found.

Web: www.villagecandle.co.uk Tel: 01254 300268 Email: sales@villagecandle.co.uk

New distributor for Mr & Mrs Fragrance Heart of the Country Ltd are proud to announce exclusive UK and Ireland distribution of the Italian brand Mr & Mrs Fragrance. Blending technology with a passion for fragrance and design. Mr & Mrs Fragrance is certain to shake up the UK home fragrance industry.

Heart of the Country Ltd look forward to introducing you to George and Sisi at Pulse, two innovative electronic diffusers which utilise Mr&Mrs capsules. Made of alcohol free and natural base fragrances, they can be conveniently swapped and re-used many times. www.HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk 01543 481612 Pulse Stand J70.

BHS deny store closure plans The future of more than 50 BHS stores is in doubt after its new owners began a review.

Retail Acquisitions bought the chain from Monaco-based tycoon Sir Philip Green recently and insisted that they had no plans for mass closures reports Retail Week.

However, the company has sent a list of 52 shops that could be sublet or made smaller or closed.

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Ten years on and still going strong The Gambian Children’s Fund is ten years old this year and to celebrate, Sharon Jervis (founder of Beefayre) and her daughter Lucy (a teacher) returned to the school that the charity has continuously supported. She met the new children attending the school and the past pupils who have now moved on to secondary school.

In ten years, more than 800 children have passed through the school and gone on to further education to complete their schooling. Originally, there was no proper school in the small village of Kunkujang, other than two, small breeze block buildings with 100 children in each room, very run down and definitely not conducive to delivering any level of education. They are proud and immensely grateful to Leicester Grammar School and all the individuals who have helped over the past ten years, to not only extend and improve the school, but to have given 800 children an opportunity to receive an education, which will have an effect on their lives and the lives of their families.

If you would like to help to celebrate this ten year

anniversary, and work towards achieving a further ten years, either by making a donation, holding your own fundraising events or just interested in finding out more about the school project, please contact either Sharon Jervis, the chairman of the Gambian Children’s Fund at Sharon@sharonjervis. com or Eileen Neelands secretary of the charity on eileenneelands@yahoo.co.uk.

SMIGGLE CELEBRATES FIRST BIRTHDAY IN THE UK Australia’s best known children’s stationery brand is now celebrating its first birthday in the UK. And what an amazing first year it has been.

In February 2014, Smiggle opened its first store in Westfield shopping centre at Stratford, revealing an ambitious expansion plan of up to 20 stores in its first year. Twelve months on and the successful retailer with more than 160 stores across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, now has an impressive 19 stores also operating in the UK. Surprising and delighting British fans across the country, Smiggle’s ever-expanding range of quirky and unique stationery has proved a huge hit in the UK with the company committed to opening up to 40 stores per year for the next four years.

As part of celebrations to mark its one-year UK anniversary, the colourful stationery giant is now launching a local online store that will see orders for its vast range of goodies fulfilled out of Smiggle’s UK distribution centre, and delivered directly to the front door within two to three days.

VILLAGE CANDLE

R

www.villagecandle.co.uk Tel: 01254 300268

Email: sales@villagecandle.co.uk

NEWS

regular

And the winners are…

The Giftware Association’s respected Gift of the Year 2015 competition attracted the highest number of entries in recent memory and also sparked lively debate among this year’s judges.

None more so than when it came to selecting the winner of The Judges’ Choice prize, sponsored by Spring Fair, which was awarded to the Stoke-on-Trent produced Hinchcliffe and Barber Songbird Grey Ceramics from My GiftsTrade.

At a special ceremony at the NEC, attended by finalists, judges, GA Retail members and sponsors at the close of the opening day of Spring Fair 2015 (Sunday 1 February), internationally renowned product designer and Gift of the Year ambassador Sebastian Conran presented this coveted prize – for the outstanding product in the competition – and the awards to the winners of all 20 categories.

As part of The Judges’ Choice prize, My Gifts Trade will also be given a free stand at Autumn Fair by the competition’s headline sponsor, i2i Events Group, organiser of Spring Fair and Autumn Fair.

GA chief executive Isabel Martinson commented: “The 2015 competition has been a memorable one. We again strengthened our team of judges so that it would be representative of retailers of all shapes and sizes. And our suppliers have again stepped up to the plate to present a diverse array of innovative and beautifully designed products.”

Louise Young, Divisional Director Retail of i2i Events Group, said: “The Gift of the Year Awards co-hosted by Spring Fair creates a unique and significant commercial opportunity for those winners during the fair.

“And I am particularly thrilled that ceramics made in The Potteries have won The Judges’ Choice award. Buyers will be able to order them at Spring Fair, where many other companies who have been successful in this year’s competition are also exhibiting, giving buyers immediate access to next season’s best sellers.”

The GA is celebrating the success of winners, with product and company photos on www.giftoftheyear.co.uk and www.ga-uk.org, as well as Facebook and Twitter.

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Gift of the Year 2015 winning and highly commended products are: The Judges’ Choice, sponsored by Spring Fair: Winner, Hinchcliffe and Barber Songbird Grey Ceramics (My Gifts Trade) Body, Bath and Spa: Winner, Waggledance Collection (Beefayre); highly commended, Compact Lenses (That Company Called If); highly commended, Modern Apothecary Candles (Stone Glow Candles) Branded/Character: Winner, Fascinations Star Wars 3D Metal Construction Kits (Professor Puzzle); highly commended, Rubik’s Cube Light (Paladone Products); highly commended, RSPB Singing Birds (Ravensden) Card and Wrap: Winner, FORM (The Art File); highly commended, Speedy Gift Wrap for Awkward Shaped Gifts (Lux-Wrap); highly commended, Coaster Cards (The London Studio) Commemorative and Collectable Gifts: Winner, Personalised Brass Travellers Compass (Treat Gifts); highly commended, National Geographic Picture Playing Cards (That Company Called If); highly commended, Iconic Bookchairs (Thinking Gifts) Eco-Friendly, sponsored by T H March: Winner, Felt Animal Puppets (Sew Heart Felt); highly commended, Building Blocks (Lanka Kade); highly commended, WeWOOD Kappa Chocolate (WeWOOD UK) Fashion Accessories: Winner, Love the Glove (Burgon & Ball); highly commended, Compact Lenses (That Company Called If); highly commended, Collier Campbell Shoulder Bag (Quintessential) Fashion Jewellery: Winner, Branch Out (Martick Jewellery); highly commended, Keep Me Jewellery (Keep Me Jewellery); highly commended, WeWOOD Kappa Chocolate (WeWOOD UK) Festive and Seasonal: Winner, Skeleton Crew (Talking Tables); highly commended, Reusable Gift Box Crackers – Hellebore design (Keep This Design); The Great Egg Hunt (Talking Tables) Garden and Outdoor Living, sponsored by GES: Winner, Citronella Wood Wick Patio & Picnic Candles (Enigma); highly commended, Sophie Conran Raspberry Collection (Burgon & Ball); highly commended, Milk Bottle with Straw (Parlane International) Gifts for Men: Winner, Battery-powered Paper Planes (The Lagoon Group); highly commended, Ridley’s Games Room (Wild & Wolf)); highly commended, Gentlemen’s Hardware (Wild and Wolf)

Home Accessories, sponsored by Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide as Primary Magazine Sponsor: Winner, Vintage Light Bulb (Amber Bright Creations); highly commended, Goat Flower Vase (Quail Designs); highly commended, Woodland Trophy Hooks (Transomnia) Home Fragrance, sponsored by the NEC: Winner, Modern Apothecary Candles (Stone Glow Candles); highly commended, Art Collection Lime & Mandarin (Stone Glow Candles); highly commended, Fired Earth Earl Grey and Vetivert Large Twin Wick (Wax Lyrical) Hot Novelty: Winner, Rubik’s Cube Light (Paladone Products); highly commended, Comedy Bandana (Bluesky Designs); highly commended, King for the Day (NPW) Kids, sponsored by Ravensden: Winner, Animal Toothbrush Holders (j-me); highly commended, Takes and Adders (House of Marbles); highly commended, RSPB Small Singing Birds (Ravensden) Kitchen and Dining, sponsored by Autumn Fair: Winner, CrushGrind Optic Mills (T&G Woodware); highly commended, HOST Chill Cooling Pour Spout (Uberstar); highly commended, Drinks Cooler Range (Parlane International) Made in UK: Winner, Hinchcliffe and Barber Songbird Grey Ceramics (My Gifts Trade); highly commended, Spode Delamere Rural (Portmeirion Group); highly commended, Victor’s Drinks – Ciders and Ales (Victor’s Drinks) Occasions, sponsored by E.ON: Winner, Photo Booth Prop Range (Ginger Ray); highly commended, Blossom and Brogues (Talking Tables); highly commended, Christmas Origami (The Lagoon Group) Premium/Luxury: Winner, Cassini Terrestrial MOVA Globe (Turtletech Design); highly commended, BassBuds 24 Carat Gold Collection (Electro Box); highly commended, New Supersize Aztec Gem Terrarium (The Urban Botanist) Stationery, sponsored by Henri Davis: Winner, Ted Baker Ladies’ Stationery (Wild & Wolf); highly commended, Meal Planner (Busy B); highly commended, Set of 36 Pencils Mr Badger (Rex International) Under £10: Winner, Animal Toothbrush Holders (j-me); highly commended, Essential Tools (Burgon & Ball); highly commended, Line Markers (Thinking Gifts)

design, colour and function for the home ADDIS HOUSEWARES AEROLATTE AMEFA ANNIVERSARY HOUSE APOLLO HOUSEWARES ARTHUR PRICE CHARLES BENTLEY & SON BERGHOFF WORLDWIDE BHL BLACK & BLUM BOBBLE BODUM BRABANTIA BURTON MCCALL BWT CHARLES VIANCIN CITY LOOK IMPORTS COUNTRY MATTERS CREATIVE PRODUCTS CROWN TRENT CURVER DARTINGTON CRYSTAL DAVID MASON DESIGN DENBY BRANDS DEXAM DKB HOUSEHOLD DNC THE DRH COLLECTION E-CLOTH EATON DINING ECOCOOK EDDINGTONS

ELIA ETHOS EUROPASONIC FISKARS FOSSEWAY TRADING GEH GILBERTS GIMI GOURMET GADGETRY GREEN PIONEER I GRUNWERG HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL HAUS HORWOOD HOMEWARES HOT PLATE PRODUCTS IC INNOVATIONS ICB NOSTIK ICTC IMPERIAL GROUP JEAN DUBOST JERAY JOSEPH JOSEPH JUST MUGS JVL HOMEWARE SOLUTIONS JWP KILNER KINETICO KIS KUHN RIKON LADELLE LE CHATEAU TEXTILES LE CREUSET

LEKUE - EMILE HENRY MAHITTI MAKE INTERNATIONAL MASON CASH, RAVENHEAD AND PRICE & KENSINGTON MASTRAD MAXWELL & WILLIAMS METALTEX MEYER N J PRODUCTS NAVIGATE NEAT IDEAS NORDIC WARE OCTOPUS PUBLISHING OXO GOOD GRIPS PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES PHA KITCHESSENTIALS POLDER HOUSEWARES PREMIER HOUSEWARES PYREX READY STEADY COOK RKW ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS ROOT 7 ROSTI MEPAL H & L RUSSEL SABICHI HOMEWARES SALTER SCOTT BROTHERS SIMPLEHUMAN SISTEMA SMASH GLOBAL

And don’t forget to visit Exclusively Electrical our sister show running alongside Exclusively Housewares ARIETE (JALENO) BAMIX (PROVEN PRODUCTS) BEURER DUALIT EPE INTERNATIONAL EWBANK GROUPE SEB

HOSTESS (CROSSLEE) HSCL - SEVERIN JURA KALORIK KITCHENAID KUVINGS (IPAS) MAGIMIX REDMOND

RKW SMART WORLDWIDE TEAM UKI UP GLOBAL SOURCING VITALITY 4 LIFE VITAMIX WITT

For more information on the show take a look at www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or call 0121 237 1130

SODASTREAM SWAN T&G TAYLORS EYE WITNESS TEFAL TERRAILLON THE COOKWARE COMPANY TONTARELLI TRADESTOCK TYPHOON ULSTER WEAVERS UNIKIA UP GLOBAL SOURCING WESCO WESTERN HOUSE WHAT MORE WHITEFURZE WHITFORD WILTON XYSTOS ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS ZWILLING J A HENCKELS

Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its NEW sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

exhibition news

BTHA confirms Toy Fair 2016 dates

Do Your Christmas Shopping At Exclusively Housewares!

The BTHA has confirmed the dates for Toy Fair 2016, which will run between Sunday 24 and Tuesday 26 January in order to avoid a clash with Nuremberg Toy Fair.

The BTHA and Olympia have been working hard to find a resolution to the clash of dates since finding out about Nuremberg not moving to its normal week at the beginning of February. The BTHA wishes to alleviate issues for visitors and exhibitors.

Extra opening hours are planned on the first two days with opening from 8.30am – 6.30pm on Sunday and Monday and opening from 8.30 – 4pm on Tuesday. Build times have been arranged to allow contractors the same number of hours as previous years in order to create a great event. All opening and build hours are at the bottom of this newsflash.

To acknowledge that there may be extra cost and inconvenience for some exhibitors, Toy Fair will offer a number of discounts: • Rates will be frozen at 2015 prices • 5% special discount to all exhibitors • 3% early booking rebate for all exhibitors who have paid deposits by 21 April 2015 • 4% early settlement rebate for all those paying their final invoice by 30 October 2015 This equates to a 12% rebate, and with the price freeze is equal to a 14-16% lower rate in 2016. In addition the exhibitors that have received a discount for participating on the balcony level will continue to receive a discount on their space, which will be 6% for 2016.

The BTHA understands from the Nuremberg Fair organisers that from 2017 onwards, the fair in Germany will be back in its traditional slot in early February. Nuremberg organisers have indicated that this one-year clash is an accident caused partly by the early Carnival time in Germany.

Visitors to this year’s Exclusively Housewares and new Exclusively Electrical show are being encouraged to come along and do their ‘Christmas Shopping’ when they attend.

“June is a good time to place orders for delivery in October ready for the busy Christmas sales period,” says show director Simon Boyd, “So we’re asking all our exhibitors to think ahead and make sure they’ve got some good offers available.”

With high end kitchen gadgets, colourful sets of kitchen appliances, matching accessories, great tableware, juicers and coffee machines all making great functional gifts, the show will have plenty of seasonal present ideas for visitors to take a look at.

“Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical will be the perfect place to find attractive Christmas gift ideas to help attract footfall –and whether the items ordered are a mainstream or complementary offer, they will add colour and impact to any retail environment!

“Many products in housewares and electricals are fashion-led, on trend, and are often a key visual element in the home. They also make great gifts – so whether you run a kitchen showroom, a department store, a specialist cookshop, or a general electrical store, a good product offer will help to create interest and deliver good profit margins.”

The Christmas Shopping promotion will be presented as a Christmas Offer Trail, with a special Christmas tree icon and leaflet to help guide visitors around the offers in both shows.

Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical are free to visit for bona fide trade buyers.

All visitors will be well looked after, with free refreshments, including lunch, on offer.

Buyers interested in visiting either show can register their interest online via www. exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk or by calling 0121 237 1130.

Messe Frankfurt announces Partner Country Messe Frankfurt announced that Italy is to be the next Ambiente Partner Country. During the Partner Country Reception for this year’s Partner Country, the USA, Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt GmbH, said, “We are delighted that Italy is to be the Partner Country of Ambiente, the world’s leading trade fair for the consumer-goods sector. As hosts, we want do everything possible to provide the perfect platform for a successful presentation of outstanding Italian design by new and long-standing exhibitors from our South European neighbour.” After Denmark, France, Japan and the USA, Italy is the fifth Ambiente Partner Country. The Partner Country presentations are always a magnet for visitors, and this year’s presentation by the USA was no exception. Now, exhibitors and visitors can look forward to an impressive display by the new Partner Country.

The official handover of the Partner Country Globe by Kevin C. Milas, Consul General of the United States of America, to Italy’s Consul General, Cristiano Cottafavi, was attended by numerous guests from business, politics and society, including American actress and Oscar winner Helen Hunt and Scott Henderson, the designer and curator of this year’s Partner Country presentation.

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THE LARGEST COLLECTION OF

GREETING CARD PUBLISHERS IN THE WORLD

“PG Live was fantastic, as always!

As the only exhibition that has favourite publishers and new companies all under one roof it has been the only trade show I’ve attended for a few years now.”

Sophie Greenwood, senior buyer of cards and gifting of WHSmith Travel and Funky Pigeon

ow! ter N its s i g e R d for e, Fame tmospher a res dly frien Live featu tors b i i PG 0 exh major 2 2 r ove om d ng fr rangi lishers an to s d pub n a and ng br leadi e names u s q r . bouti designe w ne

Register Now! 01635 297070

@PGLiveLondon

www.progressivegreetingslive.com

PG Live

2nd - 3rd June 2015

The Cool Card Collective The UK is a world-leader in greeting card design and publishing, so it’s no surprise that PG Live, a dedicated show for the industry, is playing host to the largest collection of greeting card publishers in the world – perfect for gift shops looking to do their greeting card buying. Taking place from 2 – 3 June at London’s beautiful Business Design Centre, here’s a little taster of what’s in store at the seventh annual PG Live.

F

amed for its fun, friendly atmosphere, PG Live brings the greeting card industry together, making the twoday show the ideal place to source fresh product and find exciting new publishers and artists.

Diversification is key to retail and greeting cards continue to increase in

already carry cards reported growing or stable sales, with many of them reporting that cards are the fastestgrowing area of their business. With this in mind, PG Live offers the perfect opportunity to ensure that your card offering is as modern and fresh as the rest of your store.

More than 220 exhibitors will be

PG Live has become well-known for its efficient, friendly service and added extras, as the entire team goes the extra mile to make sure everyone is having the best show – and the most fun possible importance to gifts shops – with 29% of independent gift retailers reporting that they were looking to start selling cards during 2015. A wise move, considering that more than 90% of gift retailers who

Register Now! Looking for fantastic greeting cards and original design?

There’s only one place to be during 2 – 3 June 2015.

Opening Times: 9.30am to 6.00pm on 2 June, 9.30am to 4.30pm on 3 June.

Register now at: www.progressivegreetingslive.com Follow us on: Twitter @PGLiveLondon Or call the team on: 01635 297070

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showcasing their latest collections, ranging from major publishers and leading brands, to boutique names and new designers. Most importantly, PG Live gives gift shops the opportunity to see the fantastic new releases from high-profile specialist gift shop suppliers like Belly Button Designs, Five Dollar Shake, Blue-Eyed Sun, Wendy Jones Blackett and Glick Designs.

“The support that has been shown to PG Live is fantastic,” said Simon Boyd, joint show director. “We have all the major publishers exhibiting, and many of them have some incredibly exciting plans in store for the show, with major launches, private viewing rooms and even a few celebrity visits!”

This year’s Springboard section is also playing host to more than 80 new specialist publishers who have never exhibited before, with many of them

gearing their offering specifically to the needs of gift shops.

PG Live has become well-known for its efficient, friendly service and added bonuses, as the entire team goes the extra mile to make sure everyone is having the best show – and the most fun possible. Buyers are enthusiastic about the event, with Suzie Abel, buyer at Jarrold, Norwich, naming PG Live as her favourite show because: “I never fail to be impressed by the warm and enthusiastic welcome.”

Everyone visiting and exhibiting at PG Live receives free refreshments throughout the show (the famous tea trolleys will be out in force again!), a delicious complimentary two-course lunch, a colourful keepsake show

catalogue, full use of the Henry Cole Buyers’ Lounge and even a fabulous free post-show drinks party on the first night.

“It is always a real honour to be able to bring so many card suppliers and buyers together, but the real joy comes from seeing the industry working together to do business, network and exchange ideas,” said Simon. “The 2015 show is going to include all the special touches we have added in the past – but it wouldn’t be PG Live without a few surprises in store as well!”

A focused, friendly, compact show, PG Live is the ideal place to source fresh product and find exciting new publishers and artists – it’s all there, just waiting to be explored. What will your big discovery be?

Show Facts • Lucky for some! 2015 is the seventh PG Live show.

• More than 220 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest creations and newest ranges.

• PG Live attracts buyers and exhibitors from 40 different countries.

• PG Live’s free lunch service sees 1,200 buffet lunches, 300 round of sandwiches and 1,800 soft drinks served each day.

• More than £8,500 worth of Gold and Silver tickets are given to The Reta Award winners and nominees each year to spend at the show. The Greats Award winners and nominees will also be receiving them for the first time this year!

Fashion meets Function You always find something new at the London Stationery Show.

See thousands of stationery and writing products from over two hundred different suppliers from around the world, all in one place.

To find out who’s exhibiting and register for free entry, go to www.stationeryshow.co.uk For information about National Stationery Week and World Stationery Day, go to www.nationalstationeryweek.com Join the conversations

@StationeryBytes @NatStatWeek

StationeryShow NationalStationeryWeek

Stationery Event of the Year

licensing news

Penguin Ventures has signed the first tranche of licensees Ladybird Books is celebrating its centenary throughout 2015 and so Penguin has capitalised on this moment and the huge affection held by the British public for this iconic and much-loved book brand to launch the official licensing programme.

‘The Penguin Ventures team has long been aware of the huge potential for a ranged of licensed product utilising the original illustrations from the Ladybird Books archive.

We knew that there was an incredibly unique opportunity with this resource and we were keen from the outset to work with licensees that share our vision to reimagine the nostalgic heritage of vintage Ladybird Books as a long term, well-loved brand,’ said Damian Treece, Brand Manager at Penguin Ventures Elements from the most iconic and beloved illustrations from the golden era of Ladybird Books, spanning the late 1950s to the 1970s have been utilised in a fresh style guide and cover a range of themes from the work place to domestic settings, from make-and-do crafts to international travel. The Vintage Collection captures a very nostalgic British view of life that will appeal to adults who grew up with the original Ladybird books as well as design-conscious consumers.

The first products to be available in the Vintage Collection include greeting cards from Kiss Me Kwik, prints and canvases from King & McGaw, dated stationery from Portico and wooden postcards from The Wooden Postcard Company, which are all available now; mugs and tea towels from W2 will launch in March, a range of adult retro games, jigsaws and kits from The Lagoon Group will launch in September and a further stationery and gift range from Portico will be available in the summer of 2015. There is also a range of vintage titles being published by Ladybird Books throughout 2015.

Licensing campaign Street Cat Named Bob Independent licensing agency TPA has been appointed EMEA licensing agent for Bob, the street cat that changed the life of a homeless busker and became a publishing sensation.

After he tended and befriended an injured cat, James Bowen wrote about how his cat changed his life in the book A Street Cat Named Bob. The book has now sold over a million copies in the UK, and has topped the charts in the USA, Germany, Brazil, Portugal and Turkey, to name just a few of the more than 30 countries in which it has been published. More Bob books have followed and enjoyed similar success.

In fact today, nearly three years after the original book appeared, James and Bob still attract massive queues at book signings up and down the country.

There is now a powerful demand for branded product linked to this astonishing pair, which is why the literary agency representing James and Bob — Aitken Alexander Associates — has appointed TPA to manage a licensing programme for Bob the brand.

Chris Taday, MD of TPA, says: “Bob the street cat is much more than a publishing hit. He is an inspirational figure with strong name recognition, lasting appeal and a potential that extends into many product categories. We’re looking forward enormously to developing that potential with Aitken Alexander Associates — and of course James and Bob!”

16 gifts today

Licensed Frozen Jewellery by Disney Couture Disney Couture has created a magical range of licensed adult and children’s jewellery inspired by the popular Disney animation, Frozen. This coincides with the release of the short sequel Frozen Fever which is due for release this March.

The collection consists of 11 premium white gold-plated designs featuring characters and quotes from the Frozen film. The range retails from £22 to £39 and is perfect as gifts to Frozen fans of all ages. For retailers, special Frozen starter packs costing from £300 are available.

“We are delighted to be distributing the Disney Couture brand in the UK and believe there is a significant gap in the jewellery and gift market for high quality, licensed jewellery. With unique designs and inspirational quotes, our jewellery holds a special meaning for the recipient which is what makes the brand so successful.” said Tom Coulter, director of Disney Couture Jewellery UK.

Games, Posters and More!

The licensing campaign for Shopkins — the hit new girls’ collectible range that’s taking the UK retail market by storm — is expanding fast with the announcement of three more licences: in games, posters and amusement plush.

Winning Moves, a leading maker of board games, card games, and puzzles, is set to launch their Shopkins range with Top Trumps card game in markets worldwide and will follow up with more exciting games for the EMEA and Asia/Pacific markets. Pyramid, a leading name in licensed images, will offer posters in all sizes for the UK and Ireland market and Whitehouse Leisure, the leading market innovator in amusement plush and redemption products, is to produce plush and key chains for the European amusement channels. The new licensees join a programme which already boasts the support of major companies including Pedigree Books, DJ Murphy magazines and Scholastic.

The games ranges will be available from spring 2015 with the poster range available now. The Whitehouse range will reach the amusement market across Europe from mid-2015 The property is already hugely popular in Australia and the US and has now hit the UK — with retailers everywhere struggling to keep the line in stock and having to airfreight in new supplies to fulfil consumer demand.

Flame & Fragrance

Accessories

Add a touch of style and elegance to any home dĂŠcor

For more info please email sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570 or order online at our trade website www.xystostrade.co.uk

Retail Interview Wyevale Garden Centres

Firmly planted Penny Franks had the pleasure to question Afzal Sachak, senior buyer, Wyevale Garden Centres Wyevale Garden Centres is a wellknown name - can you tell us a little about Wyevale Garden Centres and how this has been achieved over the years?

Wyevale Garden Centres, formerly The Garden Centre Group, is the nation’s largest group of garden centres, with 148 centres across the country.

Their roots date back to Wyevale Nursery, which was founded in 1932 and eventually became one of the earliest garden centres.

Wyevale Garden Centres’ mission is to bring the joy of the garden to everyone, providing a place where

18 gifts today

anyone can come to find help, ideas and inspiration.

Naturally, you have a great opportunity within the gifting sector - how do you manage this in-store?

We ensure that the customer journey within the store takes them through our Home & Gifts department which is usually located alongside our houseplants and greeting cards categories to create a gifting destination.

What type of products do you stock?

We stock a wide a variety of gifts that includes candles and fragrance

We ensure that the customer journey within the store takes them through our Home & Gifts department which is usually located alongside our houseplants and greeting cards categories to create a gifting destination through to figurines, photo frames, vases and decorative objects for the home. We also stock a wide variety of personalised products for all age groups, as well as a selection of decorative objects that can be used as ‘gifts’ for various age groups and occasions - from weddings and births

through to key seasonal events such as Mother’s Day. How do you keep abreast of any gift buying trends?

By monitoring what is going around me in my life every day and following lifestyle trends and cultural influences

as reported by the likes of WGSN and Trend Bible and then translating this into a range of giftware that will attract our customer. It could be anything from a fashion colour or a print that makes its way onto a mug design or onto a range of decorative objects for the home, through to cultural references from foods of the world or popular holiday destinations that may incorporate icons and design.

I also use a variety of resources available on internet such as blogs as well as being aware of the impact a film or TV series may have e.g. The Great Gatsby and Downtown Abbey on products.

Is there a particular gifting category that performs exceptionally well for you?

Our candle and home fragrance category performs very well.

What about trade shows, how important are these to you?

shows such as The Canton Fair, Atlanta Gift Show, Frankfurt Ambiente and Maison et Objet in Paris.

• 148 centres across the UK What’s the most exciting part of your job?

Sourcing and developing new products to inspire our customers.

What gifting categories would you say you cover?

Home fragrance - such as candles and candle accessories, body and bath products and also decorative home accessories - such as photogram’s, ornaments, figurines and vases.

How far in advance do you plan products that you will stock?

Six to nine months in advance on our everyday giftware ranges.

Do you source seasonal gifts? How do you manage this?

We source for the following seasonal

Trade shows are very important as these give me an opportunity to see a large number of resources under one roof. Apart from picking up key trends, the international shows can be a great opportunity to source a new and exclusive supplier Trade shows are very important as these give me an opportunity to see a large number of resources under one roof. Apart from picking up key trends, the international shows can be a great opportunity to source a new and exclusive supplier.

Which ones do you typically attend in a year?

I attend a number of UK shows including Autumn & Spring Fair at Birmingham NEC, Home & Gift in Harrogate, Harrogate Christmas, Top Drawer in London and many more.

I will also visit the key international

FUN FACTS:

gifting occasions: St Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter, Father’s Day and Christmas.

• Established in 1932 • Over 5,000 employees • Marie Curie Cancer Care is their chosen National Charity Partner in this area are largely driven by the age, relation and celebration genres.

locations as well as offering tips and advice for our customers.

Do you feel that ranges are refreshed regularly?

We work with our suppliers to offer a changing mix within each genre at least twice a year and within each season we may change the selection from a particular range or brand based on performance and to accommodate new launches.

And to the future, do you see your gifting ranges increase in their size?

Gifting will always be an important part of our business and I would expect to grow the area as our customers are continually looking for new and inspirational products. There is no shortage of products for us to buy to inspire and entertain them with.

What about gift wrap? Is this something that compliments your greeting cards sector?

We see gift-wrap, gift bags and gift boxes as a growing opportunity which not only complements the greetings card but also the main gifts section and also the Houseplant and Gifts for Gardeners areas.

This is capitalising on the trend to upscale a gift and increase its perceived value.

Do you have a particularly busy time of year - say Christmas as an example? How far in advance would you plan for this?

Christmas is the busiest time of the year – we usually begin our planning at least 18 months in advance.

What about social media, how important is this to Wyevale Garden Centres?

Social media is very important to us, both for keeping on top of current news and using it as a platform to give customers content and information. It is also an important tool for building relationships and brand presence.

How important are greeting cards to your business proposition?

Greeting cards are an important part of our total gifting experience – sales

How does your website operate alongside your stores?

Our website provides content and information on all our stores and

How important are greeting cards to your business proposition?

Greeting cards are an important part of our total gifting experience – sales in this area are largely driven by the age, relation and celebration genres.

Do you feel that ranges are refreshed regularly?

We work with our suppliers to offer a changing mix within each genre at least twice a year and within each season we may change the selection from a particular range or brand based on performance and to accommodate new launches.

gifts today 19

GA news

Surge in Gift of the Year entries as competition becomes a key element in company campaigns Why were there so many entries for Gift of the Year 2015, the most in recent years?

Michael Papé, chairman of The GA and a director of Ravenden – a sponsor of the competition – commented: “Sales increase for those products that win Gift of the Year awards.

“And because competition in the marketplace is now so intense, many companies are upping their game by putting an increasing emphasis on marketing and PR. Gift of the Year is fast becoming one of the key elements in their campaigns – not only for large companies but smaller businesses, too, who can be suddenly thrust into the limelight when they are finalists in a particular category.”

GA vice chairman praises Made in UK products Made in UK entries for Gift of the Year won plaudits from the judges this year: Anna Rigby, the John Lewis Partnership’s Head of Buying, Home Accessories, Gifts and Seasonal, was among those who thought it was the strongest category in the competition.

This has delighted The GA, whose vice chairman, Henri Davis, presented the award to My Gifts Trade for the Stokeon-Trent produced Hinchcliffe & Barber Songbird Grey Ceramics. The range also took The Judge’s Choice prize for the best product across the whole competition.

Commented Henri: “It wasn’t so long ago that people were saying that British-made products were too expensive and, often, not very good.

But with costs rising in the Far East, manufacturers in the UK have grasped the opportunity and the quality of their product is now shining through – and in some markets they have created a greater appetite for it.

“Made in UK as opposed to designed here is very close to my heart. As a stationery buyer for the National Trust, all our own-brand stationery, Christmas cards and calendars were all printed in the UK. And in my consultancy work I always recommend sourcing in the UK on paper because there’s more and more quality, innovative product available at competitive prices.”

Henri added: “The GA is thrilled that The Potteries were so well represented in the competition this year and that Portmeirion – which is thriving – was highly commended in the Made in UK category.”

Anniversary celebration GA member Leonard Smith Publishing is celebrating its thirtieth year of publishing greetings cards. It marked the anniversary at Spring Fair – where Issy and Leonard Smith have exhibited since 1988 – by holding a daily draw for a magnum of champagne. The GA’s Isabel Martinson pulled out one of the winning numbers.

20 gifts today

Sebastian Conran, the competition’s ambassador and renowned international product designer, said: “Because Gift of the Year is a barometer of trends in the gift and home market – reflecting the ever-changing landscape of the economy – I say to retailers, ‘Seek out the companies which have been successful in this year’s competition. They have the products that are of the moment. What a terrific opportunity to steal a march on your competitors’.

“To suppliers, both in the UK and from overseas, my message is simple: ‘Entering Gift of the Year is a must: if you’re successful you’ll reap the benefit in increased sales at home and abroad – as well as immeasurable kudos for your company’.”

Successful Sally took seminar tips Tips about setting up as a retailer weren’t lost on Sally Robinson when she attended one of the Spring Fair seminars presented by GA chief executive Isabel Martinson two years ago.

Sally has since opened the independent retail company Mrs Robinson’s Store, establishing a gift shop and website with a strong visual identity.

She returned to Spring Fair this year just 14 months after starting her own business and gave a seminar about becoming an independent retailer online and on the high street. And Sally was quick to thank Isabel for her advice about product and the need to enjoy serving the general public – and cleaning – when setting up as a bricks and mortar retailer.

“It’s gratifying that she was inspired as a result of attending the seminar and took the advice offered before going on to set up her own successful business,” said Isabel. “I get lots of feedback from people who tell me that when they are working in their shops they put into practice what they have learnt.”

Those attending this year’s seminars were people planning to start online ventures; potential bricks and mortar retailers and others who were already in business. There were questions about margins, product, profitability and location.

Isabel added: “There was also discussion about whether or when to hold sales. Some independents didn’t like them at all – fearing an expectation by customers that prices should always be reduced – while others had one sale at the end of January of difficult-to-shift stock before they moved on to new product.”

Trade associations lobby on late payments and T&C The GA’s Isabel Martinson and other trade association chiefs attended a meeting with shadow business minister Iain Wright. According to Isabel, he was lobbied about the “catastrophic effect” on the cashflow and profits of small businesses caused by late payments and retrospective changes to terms and conditions.

GA community grows GA membership development manager Simone Rose reports that the association signed 27 members and more than 500 retailer subscribers during the early year trade shows and Spring Fair.

www.ga-uk.org

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Focus Handmade Flowers

Picture Courtesy of SIA

Bloomin’ lovely The flowers in the spring... and summer not to mention autumn and winter

I

22 gifts today

“

t is an area that is growing in popularity by the year as people have less and less time to tend to the items they use to adorn and beautify their homes.

One of the items that can be used in just such a way are handmade flowers. They do not require the same level of care as real flowers and consequently last much longer.

It is for this reason that they are often also used as keepsakes. For example, some brides are having a recreation of their bridal bouquet prepared for them to keep and admire long after the real blooms of the flowers have wilted and died.

Similarly, the table decorations are created from handmade flowers allowing the bride and groom and their guests to have a permanent reminder of the happy day.

We spoke to Simon Pykett of SIA Home Fashion, a company that is more than fifty years old and named for its founder Sonja Ingegerd Andersson.

Mrs Andersson created handmade flowers with silk paper before expanding into designs such as vases, batiks, tableware, decorative accessories, candleholders, candles and small furniture.

Simon said: “For more than 50 years now SIA Home Fashion have been supplying the world market with beautiful handmade flowers. Almost unrecognisable from their real cousins, SIA flowers bring colour and joy to homes all over the world.”

Simon is absolutely correct and confirms our belief that the desire for handmade flowers can only increase.

He added: “Handmade flowers are an ever growing category for SIA and in the UK and Ireland it represents more than 50 per cent of the turnover.

“The appeal of these flowers to the consumer is due

“

The appeal of these flowers to the consumer is due to the unmatchable quality; they look so real. to the unmatchable quality; they look so real.”

The other bonus for handmade flowers is their versatility – you can buy a selection to decorate your home and then after a period of time decide that you would like a change. Nothing could be simpler than putting them in the cupboard and then in a few months or years bringing them out and it is like having a fresh new look in your home.

When asked about the most popular item retailer EllieRose from Braintree in Essex, said: “We find that people mainly go for roses, they are definitely our biggest seller.

“Our customers tend to buy out homemade flowers to adorn dresses and hats. We also get quite a lot of business from film and television companies.”

Simon agrees saying, “Unlike the real ones however they don’t wilt or die and whilst you may decide to change them for a new look or to match the season, SIA flowers will last forever.

“Whilst most SIA customers are small and medium sized boutiques and department stores, increasingly they are supplying garden centres, florists and interior designers.

“Garden centres and florists of course really understand flowers and so do their consumers.

Interior designers welcome the big show pieces which SIA do so well and all of the vibrant colours which they can use to mix and match for the projects they manage.”

Fun Facts: ■

Established for 52 years

■

Red Christmas is the traditional side of the SIA Christmas offer, taking inspiration from their Nordic roots

■

SIA can be found all over Europe, the middle east and Asia; recently they have signed a new distributor agreement in the USA, something they are extremely excited about

■

SIA Flowers can be put in water to mix and match them with real flowers

■

Some SIA flowers not only look real, they smell real.

Contact your local Sales Manager to make a showroom booking Simon Pykett Director T +44 (0)1635 39881 M +44 (0) 7826 851241

Paul Francis Southeast M +44 (0) 7769 934055 Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Central and Greater London, Channel Islands, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Surrey & Sussex.

Nicola Atkinson Southwest England and Wales M +44 (0) 7802 313128 Wales, Staffordshire, Shropshire, West Midlands, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Avon, Berkshire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon & Cornwall.

John Murphy Ireland M + (0) 353 87 2640065 Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

John Gibbons Scotland M +44 (0)7956 934059 Scotland

Chris McVey Northern England M +44 (0) 7795 484412 Northumberland, Cumbria, Tyne and Wear, County Durham, Lancashire & Yorkshire

Harriet Ayers Central areas M: 07714 656106 Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & SuffolkNottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & Suffolk

SIA Home Fashion

Unit 7, The Votec Centre, Hambridge Lane, Newbury RG14 5TN

Telephone: 01635 32868 Website: www.sia-homefashion.co.uk Email: salesuk@sia-homefashion.com

SIA

SIA handmade f lowers are exactly that, ‘handmade’ This is why SIA flowers stand out from those of the competition. any consumer products are labelled handmade when in fact the component parts have been produced by machine and finally only assembled by hand.

M

Not so with SIA. For SIA to produce flowers of such beauty, which are remarkably close to their real cousins, the entire process has to be made by hand. Initially the petals, of varying sizes, are cut from a special fabric. They then go through a steaming process making them pliable to facilitate the shaping process.

The next stage is for the petals to be painted. This is a highly skilled process and sees them literally being held by tweezers and painted with a small paint brush.

Irrespective of the type of flower, all SIA petals and leaves start life as a white fabric.

It takes 60 seconds to produce just one petal and therefore the average flower head containing 60 petals will take an hour to put together. Being made this way means that no SIA

24 gifts today

flower is exactly the same as the next; they are just as unique as those made

by Mother Nature.

The exact percentage of flowers sold, when compared to the rest of SIA product, varies from country to country and area by area. However in the UK it exceeds 50% of their business. Simon Pykett, UK director said: “We are constantly looking for new ideas and new flowers to introduce and this is facilitated by how often we change our collection.

“At SIA there are two main trading periods, Spring/Summer and Autumn/ Winter and Christmas. The changing seasons allow us to change our offer twice yearly.

“For Christmas we allow ourselves a little indulgence and artistic license.

Whilst striving ever to mirror real flowers, at Christmas we bend the rules just a little and offer our retailers SIA flowers with a hint of glitter! SIA consumers expect only the very best from us. This is important because our flowers are used for a multiplicity of different occasions.

“Many may just wish to decorate their

Where can you view the SIA ranges this year?

At SIA they are proud of the working relationships with their customers. Some go back very many years and some are more recent.

They are always looking for new partners and this year will see them attending ‘Home’ at London Olympia 13 – 15 September and earlier in the year organising a ‘pop up showroom’ in Harrogate 19 – 22 July.

Outside of this, their showroom in Newbury is always open and appointments can be made with any of their area sales managers.

Simon Pykett

Interesting Facts: Established for 52 years

■

Red Christmas is the traditional side of the SIA Christmas offer, taking inspiration from their Nordic roots

■

SIA can be found all over Europe, the middle east and Asia; recently they have signed a new distributor agreement in the USA, something they are extremely excited about

■

SIA Flowers can be put in water to mix and match them with real flowers

■

Some SIA flowers not only look real, they smell real.

home with beautiful flowers which last forever, whereas others may be looking to decorate their hotel reception.

SIA flowers can be found almost anywhere!”

In keeping with this, there have been occasions where wedding bouquets have been replicated for brides to keep long after throwing her real one over a shoulder to be caught.

“Not just flowers” Their ‘floral fame’ often overshadows the other side of their business, Home Décor. As the company name suggests, Home Fashion is their business.

Their retail partners are able to use SIA as a ‘one stop shop’ purchasing

items such as picture frames, candles, lighting, furniture, Art Deco, hurricane lamps and knives and forks, to name but a few.

For those who have a good selection of SIA flowers they also offer visual merchandise support where their very own Claire Youldon, responsible for making their showroom look so beautiful, will visit customers to create beautiful floral displays and help with staff training.

“If it’s for the home, then it’s our business” SIA Home Fashion in the UK and Ireland can be found in a multiplicity of different retail outlets. From Harrods and Selfridges to department stores, small and medium sized boutiques.

Where it all began SIA … stands for the initials of its founder Sonja Ingegerd Andersson This modern fairy tale started in the kitchen of Sonja Ingegerd Andersson where she began to create handmade flowers with silk paper.

It was in 1963 and the “Flower power” era was in its infancy.

When the magazine for women Femina published her designs, it immediately became a spectacular success.

Numerous orders were made in the small house of Lustgarden which quickly turned it into a real workshop with the entire village cutting, folding and dispatching the colourful flowers.

The house was more and more dedicated to Sonja’s creations and she quickly developed new designs such as vases…

SIA Home Fashion is an international company present today in a myriad of countries on five continents.

The brand is known as a reference for floral arrangements with an undisputed quality and savoirfaire and also as a very unique signature with collections of textiles, tableware, furniture, lighting, vases, frames, candles, candleholders and a broad variety of giftware and accessories.

SIA particularity lies in creating four extensive and inspirational selections of gifts and seasonal decorations each year and developing a large variety of flowers reproducing the natural cycle of seasons.

Paul Francis Southeast M +44 (0) 7769 934055 Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Central and Greater London, Channel Islands, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Surrey & Sussex.

Nicola Atkinson

“

Many may just wish to decorate their home with beautiful flowers which last forever, whereas others may be looking to decorate their hotel reception. SIA flowers can be found almost anywhere!

“

■

Director T +44 (0)1635 39881 M +44 (0) 7826 851241

Southwest England and Wales M +44 (0) 7802 313128 Wales, Staffordshire, Shropshire, West Midlands, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Avon, Berkshire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon & Cornwall.

John Murphy Ireland M + (0) 353 87 2640065 Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

John Gibbons Scotland M +44 (0)7956 934059 Scotland

Chris McVey Northern England M +44 (0) 7795 484412 Northumberland, Cumbria, Tyne and Wear, County Durham, Lancashire & Yorkshire

Simon Pykett, UK director Harriet Ayers Central areas M: 07714 656106 Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & Suffolk

Telephone: 01635 32868 Website: sia-homefashion.co.uk

gifts today 25

Trade talk

Gifts Today loves to hear your views. This month we speak to key wholesalers and suppliers to learn what’s on their minds.

This issue we asked some of the industry’s finest their thoughts on 2015 so far.

Megan Walsh Nick Morley Sales Manager, Completely Independent Distribution How is the year going for you so far?

Busy – much busier than anticipated to be honest. Since last summer we had put a number of things in place to make things easier and better for our customers and the response has been incredible. We expected a quiet period in the first quarter but have been pleasantly surprised. The Spring Fair was a huge success as well as we really got the mix of new gifting products like Harry Potter and the traditional licensed music and character apparel spot on.

Do you think we will see any specific trends emerging?

For us the interest in our Star Wars designs is already apparent although the film is not out until the end of the year. We are getting a lot of interest in the more fashion styled apparel so this will continue to grow for us.

What are your retail partners specifically requesting at present?

Superheroes are just massive at the moment and not just the well known characters like Batman, Superman, The Flash, Green Lantern and Wonder woman but the more “fan boy” characters like Harley Quinn, Aquaman & Arrow are selling really well. There are a number of the rock bands on tour this year so demand on bands like AC/DC & Metallica has increased.

Simon Pykett UK Director, Sia Home Fashion How is the year going for you so far?

Spring Sumer 2015 shows an increase on last year’s performance and is exactly where we thought it would be. However, our new Autumn/Winter and Christmas 2015 collection is widely believed to be the best it has been for 10 years and the ‘significant’ increase of our order book when compared to same period last year reflects this and is a remarkable leap forward.

Do you think we will see any specific trends emerging?

The gift market is reviving and moving forward it will be more important to have items gift boxed.

What are your retail partners specifically requesting at present?

Retail partners are looking for something new and exclusive. SIA don’t offer exclusivity but they are selective where they trade. This means that if you retail SIA products you are likely to be alone in your town and you won’t be able to purchase the same product from other suppliers.

Ben Stubbs Director -Heart of the Country How is the year going for you so far?

2015 certainly feels like a breath of fresh air. We are picking up new customers at our fastest rate for years. There seems to be a real appetite on the market to invest in new products as customers look to build on the green shoots of recovery in 2014.

Do you think we will see any specific trends emerging?

Whilst the pick-up price scented sachet has always been our top seller we are definitely noticing customers investing in fragrance technology. This has been a major factor in Heart of the Country’s new partnership with Mr&Mrs Fragrance. Electronic diffusers offer customers the ability to control fragrance in their homes in the same way they can control light and sound. The future of home fragrance is exciting and we are very proud to be working with Mr&Mrs who are actually driving the future.

What are your retail partners specifically requesting at present?

Fragrance needs to be experiences in the same way as food needs to be tasted. Heart of the Country now offer free jar candle burning samples with any order of Bridgewater Jar Candles. Our customers have noticed a huge spike in sales since this policy was offered.

26 gifts today

International Sales Manager - RJB Stone How is the year going for you so far?

2015 has been a very exciting year for RJB Stone so far: we made the decision to expand our Occasions ranges. The reception that these products have received has been remarkable and we have enjoyed positive feedback from our retail partners.

We are delighted at the continued success of the spring trade show season: we now attend 6 shows over spring, so our team has been very busy! Our customer base continues to grow and the trade shows play a large part in retailers discovering and engaging for the first time with RJB Stone. We are thrilled that our Sass & Belle brand is becoming established and we feel that it is holding its own in the giftware market. Our designers have been working harder than ever to create on-trend and individual gifts and in the coming months we will be introducing new lines and also expanding some of our most popular ranges from the start of the year.

Do you think we will see any specific trends emerging?

One very prominent trend for the coming season is a global fusion of pattern in bold colours - inspired by world travel, this trend encompasses Aztec and geometric prints, quatrefoils and chevrons and tropical prints. Our take on this is the inspiring Tribal Adventure range which we will be showcasing at Top Drawer, Autumn, and our geometric Modern Morocco range which we are expanding in response to popular demand. Animals are still a huge trend, especially woodland animals, often shown with distinctly human characteristics.

What are your retail partners specifically requesting at present?

Christmas seems to come earlier every year. We have received a large number of Christmas orders already and we are seeing a huge demand for seasonal decorations over all. Encouragingly, our Easter range performed exceptionally well and we believe that this is a result of changing gifting trends in the Easter market. The trend for uplifting sayings is stronger than ever and is in line with much of the fashion and interior design movements we are currently seeing. As a result of this, all of our sayings products (the collection is extensive to say the least!) have been selling at a remarkable pace. We love to draw on positivity, aspirations and fun that the retail market seems to be enjoying - there is a real sense of humour in current trends and it is a wonderful experience to be part of. One of the commitments that we take very seriously is our retail partner’s desire for face to face and human interaction.

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Special - Brian Wiseman of Present Company

n a m e s i W n a i r B ! t s s At la d r o w s r e m s i off m i t p o of Deflation now stalks the economic landscape and threatens recovery.

Disinflation Brian Wiseman

is the elegant terminology

I

s the nuclear winter that followed the economic catastrophe finally showing signs of thawing? Sunshine after the rain? I rather think at last it may be.

I would characterise the improvement thus: customers are coming in to Present Company and although some buy nothing at all, or very little, we are now seeing a small but growing minority who are making significant purchases. It may be a repeat visit after much consideration or it may the impulsive, “That is beautiful – I’m going to have it.” Whichever, it does represent a very welcome resurgence after so many years of very severely depressed demand. I am gaining particular pleasure in reporting encouragement rather than the perpetual, grinding gloom.

Spring Fair, as always, attracted almost as much rumour mongering as orders. The show, we were informed very earnestly by several exhibitors, was, “Down 25% attendance on the Sunday.” More solemnly some prophesied the end for Fair, “within the next five years.” I rather doubt it.

The general mood that we gathered was cautious, realistic optimism. And, as always, the Fair was presented with

employed to characterise the current scenario of falling prices in a narrow variety of sectors

enormous flair as well as professionalism.

Against the backdrop of a gently recovering business environment, we were unprepared for the news of Windhorse Trading’s closing down. Louise and I were very much saddened. We were not a major customer of this most well intentioned company, but our dealings with them were always characterised by a dignified decency of kind and gentle people who felt that business in a capitalist system could be different. For Windhorse was a sizeable company with a soul and an ethos. We wondered if the rather substantial retail business might survive the wholesale operation, but it was not to be. It seems that the unpalatable decision to close the company was taken soon after disappointing Christmas trading and was designed to avoid the unpleasant possibility of administration and unpaid creditors. Time will tell whether the company can extricate itself from (presumably) very onerous high street leases.

Be careful of what you wish for Maybe we should be more careful what we wish for. For deflation now stalks the economic landscape and threatens recovery. Disinflation is the elegant terminology employed to characterise the current scenario of falling prices in a narrow variety of sectors, primarily driven by the fall in hydrocarbon energy prices. Hence very low inflation statistics that are threatening to turn negative. Deflation is dangerously close and now lapping the shores of the English Channel. I am amazed that anyone who owns their own business would be deluded enough to think it a virtuous development. Consider just one consequence alone: imagine the menace to retailers facing falling sales accompanied by upwards only rent review regimes.

And then there’s the General Election campaign. The sheer puerility of the proceedings is staggering, accompanied by pathetically partisan newspaper headlines.

Is this really to be the quality of debate

until Thursday 7 May? For the first time since I was given a vote I am greatly surprised to find that I am a floating voter.

I know who exactly who I don’t want to vote for, but I really haven’t decided who will be the lucky recipient of my pencilled cross. Let us hope that this tedious yet crucial appointment with the electorate will not unduly undermine the fragile economic recovery.

The Present Company January sale lingered on well into February and produced some useful results. Any red SALE sign seems to attract great attention and we did enjoy a January well ahead of last year’s sales. But still there is that small but intractable residue of leftover sale lines that simply won’t shift at any price. I was ruefully considering a mound of greeting cards that had failed to move even at the junk price of 10p each. Louise helpfully reminded me that it was me who ordered them. Which was, regrettably, entirely true. Every retailer needs to clear out some stock from time to time and I certainly don’t wish to infer that we often make bad buying blunders. We don’t. Yet it always seems easy to understand with hindsight why these disappointments disappointed. And our sad unsold pile of 10p cards? Highly amusing and well designed, but simply too clever for their own good I suspect with witty and acerbic words that rendered them totally unsuited for sending.

A lull in the UK trade show calendar now follows. However, I do commend the excellent British Craft Trade Fair to you at Harrogate 12 – 14 April. Always superb British design to be found in abundance.

Maybe see you there?

Brian Wiseman has owned home and gift shop Present Company in Burgess Hill, West Sussex for 27 years. Brian’s wife Louise is the buyer and is surprised at her husband’s sudden though heavily guarded outburst of optimism. brian_presentco@yahoo.co.uk gifts today 27

10th-12th May 2015

Pulse Preview

Discover the newly curated Pulse Pulse has taken on a new direction for 2015: discover the most exciting new products and the very latest trends, emerging talent and directional brands for you to buy.

T

Ink Bandit Stand C20

aking place at its new home in Olympia from 10-12 May, and curated by a new panel of market leading experts, you’ll be able to discover a wide array of never seen before UK and international designers.

Be part of the change. Discover five refined departments at Pulse that have been expertly curated to put you ahead of the game.

Launchpad Launchpad is the largest growing platform of emerging design talent, where you can find unique, new-to-market products that you won’t have seen anywhere else.

This department is expertly curated by David Nicholls, features director at House & Garden, who explains “If there is one thing that buyers and journalists have in

including the pick of east London’s most exciting and trend-setting new designers in Secret Emporium. Claire Foster, fashion accessories trend and design consultant, explains: “By setting out clear trends for this year’s Pulse show, I will be showcasing how to update best-selling gift accessory products that cross-over from the fashion world as well as what products should be at the top of the buyers’ must-have list”.

Pulse Trends Stay ahead of the game with Pulse’s new show features, brought to you by our official trend partners, Trend Bible, interiors and lifestyle trend agency, Katie Law and Claire Foster. “Pulse Trends will become your source of inspiration ahead of the show in May, revealing unique information on future trends, unseen at any other trade show,” says Ruth Hilton from Trend Bible. “Pulse

Lapuan Kankurit Stand G14

Launchpad is the largest growing platform of emerging design talent, where you can find unique, new-to-market products that you won’t have seen anywhere else

Niza Huang Stand A45

common, it’s that we are all on the lookout for the new, the exciting, the innovative and the exclusive. That’s why I am so pleased to be working with Pulse this year to help curate its Launchpad area.”

Living

Kith & Kin Stand K50

Living offers the crème de la crème of design-led UK and international brands from gifts to homeware, children’s gifts to stationery and bath & body. Get ahead of the busy autumn buying season and source brand new launches. Joining the expert line-up in Living is Katie Law, design journalist for the Homes & Property section of the London Evening Standard.

Katie is collaborating with Pulse to curate the Living section of the show and to write regular articles on the latest, hot off the press design news on the Pulse blog.

Fashion Calypso Rose, founder of The Indytute 28 gifts today

Pulse’s panel of fashion experts will help you spot the latest fashion trends and discover the finest emerging designers

Trends will help you understand the design themes you need to be responding to for Autumn/Winter 15/16.”

ShopTalk Whether you need help curating your store or understanding the power of social media to promote your brand, ShopTalk is an inspirational talk and workshop programme designed to give you expert, practical advice to help grow your business. Brought to you in collaboration with The Indytute, ShopTalk is a year-round programme offering retailers business insight at the show as well as online. “The Indytute provide ‘Brilliantly Inspired Lessons’ across London,” explains the founder, Calypso Rose. “You may have spotted us with our ShopTalks at Pulse 2014 where we curated the seminars. Now we are contributing to the new Pulse website too.”

See the changes for yourself by registering for your ticket today.

Simply visit pulse-london.com and click ‘Register Now’.

Home to all things new, Pulse 2015 is the most anticipated gift show of the year.

• NEW Expert Panel: Pulse is curated by a new panel of market leading experts, whose role is to pinpoint new products, highlight the latest trends and uncover emerging talent.

• NEW Look: Discover five new inspiring show departments; Launchpad, Living, Fashion, Trends, and ShopTalk.

• NEW Products: Pulse is the perfect place to find hundreds of never seen before unique and quirky products from more than 500 designers, 75% of whom you will not have seen at other UK shows.

• NEW International Design: The International Design pavilion at Pulse will host some of the most exciting international emerging designers from Finland, Hungary and South Korea.

• NEW Secret Emporium: Discover trend-setting east London fashion designers in the brand new Secret Emporium fashion feature.

• NEW Trails: Discover all of the NEW, CHRISTMAS and CUSTOMISABLE products launching at Pulse with the brand new product trails.

• NEW Trends: For the first time, Pulse works with leading trend experts including Trend Bible and Claire Foster to bring you cuttingedge design, interiors and fashion trends at Pulse and online.

• NEW ShopTalk: The inspirational talk and workshop programme has been extended to offer you even more insight across three new content streams: ecommerce, trends and business advice.

• NEW Online Content: Pulse’s experts provide business insight, industry news, design, interiors and fashion trends all year round – offering smart and educational advice via videos and blogs online.

With over 5000 beautiful Sass & Belle products and more than 1000 new lines in the Spring/ Summer 2015 collection, you are sure to find affordable gifts at www.rjbstone.com.

Established in the heart of London and with six in-house designers, RJB Stone is renowned for their unique gifts and home accessories.

Minimum order £150 net Carriage paid UK £200 net

www.rjbstone.com | +44 (0) 207 346 0100

Pulse Preview

Alexander Thurlow WWWW

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Stand: D56 Alexander Thurlow’s upcoming show at Pulse will feature some new charm pendants featuring various catch phrases. As with the word inspired bangles from last year these make ideal impulse gifts.

Also featuring will be some new additions to their Poppy Jewellery range with some exciting new presentation ideas. Find out more by visiting stand D56.

Tel: 020 8766 6466 Email: sales@alexanderthurlow.com Web: www.alexanderthurlow.com

Shruti Designs

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Stand: F66

Pulse is a fantastic opportunity for retailers to experience the new autumn winter 15 collection from Shruti Designs. This year the company will be showcasing a new category British Talent - products from home grown designers including Susie Faulks, Lisa Buckridge, Casey Rogers and Daisy Maison. You will find a fantastic range of retro velvets with a definite 70s vibe, in various styles and colours including, handbags, washbags and purses, a new collection in oil-cloth which is exceptional and features a beautiful woodland repeat pattern, as well as an extensive range of Cosy Up blankets in seasonal tones.

The core Shruti lines for High Summer 2015 will also be available for immediate delivery. Products stories have been inspired by nature - trips to the coast, woodland walks and beautiful gardens and underline the colour palette for the season. 100 per cent soft cotton scarves, the versatile, reversible sling bag and the zipped day bag are must have accessories and make perfect gifts.

Tel: 01985 847774 Email: hello@shrutidesigns.co.uk Web: www.shrutidesigns.co.uk

Braw Scotland

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Stand: B22

Braw Scotland is exhibiting at Pulse for the first time. Launched by textile designer Gabrielle Schoenenberger in March 2014, Braw’s fabrics celebrate Scotland’s scenery and heritage through hand drawn and printed gifts and home wares.

Although Scottish in flavour, the prints are proving to have universal appeal with customers throughout the UK and from abroad. The brand already has 20 stockists in Scotland, where the products are selling strongly.

Braw will be in Launchpad on Stand B22 at Pulse, showing its range of aprons, cushion covers, tea towels, oven gloves, book bags and beach bags. All products are made in natural fabrics such as linen union and cotton hopsack.

The original print collection includes Edinburgh Illustration, Capercaillie Song, Highland Coos and Scottie Sausage. There are two new whimsical and colourful prints for 2015 - The Shore (vintage boats) and Puffins. Inspired by Scotland’s seafaring history and its rare birdlife, these prints are featured on tea towels, aprons, cushion covers and beach bags Braw’s Christmas Westie print appears on tea towels, napkin sets and aprons. Oven gloves are new for 2015, in the best selling Scottie Sausage and Highland Coos fabrics.

Tel: 0779 2179956 Web: www.brawscotland.com

Beefayre

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Stand: K28

Ethical home fragrance brand Beefayre continues to enjoy huge success with their Waggledance Collection, which recently won Gift of the Year in the Body Bath & Spa Category. The collection includes candles, room diffusers, hand creams and body & bath gift sets, in three uplifting fragrances.

Their signature ’bee happy’, bee calm’, ‘bee kind’ nick names for the products make for ideal gifts and work well with the fresh new packaging and designs handdrawn by illustrator Sharon Jervis and inspired by the honey bee.

Waggledance has been one of Beefayre’s most popular collections since its launch in 2011. A honeybee performs the Waggledance to communicate to the rest of the hive where the sweetest nectar lies.

The refresh of the packaging and introduction of a larger 300g candle, 100ml diffuser and refills comes just in time for SS2015. The Bee Garden Collection also has a new Hyacinth fragrance boxed in a pretty yellow, which is designed to match the Homeware mugs and coasters.

Tel: 01858 43 44 92 Web: www.beefayre.com 30 gifts today

Always changing...always something new...always something to love!

Visit us at Pulse for beautiful summer ranges – Gifts, Home and Fashion Accessories and discover our wonderful new ranges for Autumn/Winter 15!

Pulse, London Olympia, Stand F66: May 10th – 12th email: hello@shrutidesigns.co.uk

Distributed by:

tel: +44 (0)1985 847774

01225 868788 email: contact@heavenscent.co.uk www.heavenscent.co.uk Facebook.com/heavenscentincense Twitter/ heaven scent incense @SarahBellis1

Pulse Preview

4Sided XXXX Stand: K83 The team at 4Sided are very excited to be exhibiting and launching two entirely new ranges, Cats and Optic, plus a new version of their current Christmas card range that has been reduced in size to form a four card pack. They will also be launching their new bespoke counter-top spinner created for us by Wire Fittings, so that’s four new products to exhibit at their first Pulse.

The Cats photographed for the Cats range are all mostly rescue and local to their area, Walthamstow, London E17 and include their own plus local pub cats and those belonging to friends and neighbours. These can be found on any occasion card, they are close cropped so their faces fill the cards with the message MEOW inside.

The Optic range, another any occasion card, is black and white and pay homage to many of the Op artists of the 60s. The interior message is WOW. Both ranges are sold with a white 125 X 175 envelope packaged in a cello bag with a circular sticker on the front.

The four mini Christmas cards come with C7 colour coordinated envelopes that are sold in a cello bag pack.

The spinners are free with all orders over £150

Tel: 07835 01983 Email: Joandchris@4sided.co.uk Web: www.4sided.co.uk

Heart of the Country XXXX Stand: J70 Heart of the Country will be launching Mr&Mrs Fragrance at Pulse where the UK public will meet George, Mr & Mrs Fragrance’s iconic electronic diffuser. A friendly shape with open arms releasing a world of fragrances thanks to the scented Mr&Mrs capsules. George is available in soft touch, chrome as well as a Bluetooth speaker combining scent with sound. They will meet Sisi “a mechanical divertissement of the eighteenth century, it hides in the image of a little bird perched on a tree, the mechanism of the diffusion of perfume”.

Both diffusers utilise Mr&Mrs Capsules, made of alcohol free and natural base fragrances. They can be conveniently swapped and re-used many times.

Each capsule embodies the experience of a journey, the collection includes 23 fragrances from the most enchanting places around the world.

The Mr&Mrs collection also includes reed diffusers and car and wardrobe fragrance products.

Tel: 01543 481612 Web: www.HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk

New softer PoM Stand: E68

With their new collection wowing buyers at the spring shows, PoM year has got off to a fabulous start.

“We’ve had a great response so far and our customers are immensely positive. It makes all the hard work worthwhile and gives us such a buzz, its wonderful.”

Christine Holden, Peace of Minds director and designer thinks it’s the new softer, maturer PoM that has appealed to retailers. “Our silver plated range has been refined and is so exquisitely made - it’s designer jewellery with a gift price tag. We have expanded PoM’s silver collection and its now seeing a very welcome return to form.

“With well thought out designs incorporating new elements such as gold and

32 gifts today

rose gold, it elevates sterling silver to a whole new level.

“We are also incredibly proud of our new scarves, and the key word is new.

Wonderful prints on super soft cotton, beautifully made with superb detailing, we can’t wait to get them out there.”

With the introduction of some stylish point of sale display, stunning jewellery and a must have scarf collection, there really has never been a better time to buy PoM.

Tel: 01225 777749 Email: sales@pom925.com Web: www.pom925.com

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Sterling Silver Jewellery

Honey Bee Yourself!

Call us for our latest catalogue www.kitheathretailer.com Tel 01271 329123 Email sales@kitheath.com

Licensed Gifts

Licensed to thrill Companies can make money by buying for a long or short period a licence to exploit a brand that has popularity with the public.

I

t’s the must have for many businesses now. In days gone by, companies would find their creation, their intellectual property, used willy-nilly by many other people often to the detriment of their good name and definitely to the detriment of their bank balance.

Nowadays a lot of that heartache is avoided by the use of licences and licensees. Companies sell licences for a set period that enables others to use and profit from the property be it a film or an artwork or a song.

We spoke to those with experience in this developing field. Fizz Creations

well as cuddly play toys by day.”

A good licence is not limited only to cuddly toys or television cartoon animals. It can be linked to a product used by a celebrity. For example, a number of television chefs have had branded cooking implements licensed to shops in their names. Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen has had a fifteen year-long relationship with Arthur Price, as he told us at Spring Fair. “This has been one of my longest-running and most successful licences,” he said. “Back then things were quite straightforward and the idea was that I would come in as a design name. It

“With a good licence you have the power of familiarity and many people out there have a strong connection with a favourite brand or character” is a creative novelty gift supplier based on the south coast near Brighton.

Their Holly Taylor told us: “A good licence can push a product. With a good licence you have the power of familiarity and many people out there have a strong connection with a favourite brand or character, this means they will trust the product more.

A good licence should, however, have a connection with the product to really work at its best, ‘label slapping’ will not necessarily sell the product more.’

It does appear that the connection with a loved or recognised television character does give the product that extra push. Philip Gannon, the founder and CEO of Intelex Group, said: “Our microwavable licensed soft toys continue to be perennially good sellers year on year. People love the familiarity of the characters from their favourite TV shows, teamed with the heatable functionality that makes them brilliant bed-warming companions by night as 34 gifts today

has changed a lot in 15 years. For me, I am always looking for relationships with companies that make things well.”

Holly Taylor concurs that this is an ongoing trend. “Currently on the market I can see two strong trends, one being kitchenware which is branded with a chef or cooking programme. People are relying on this as ‘sponsorship’ from that particular chef and believe it to be of a quality they would use,” she said.

Frozen has been one of Disney’s most successful licences and one that shows no sign of stopping. Diane Harwood of Fab Fairy HQ said: “I thought that had gone but it seems that Frozen is here to stay. There are some quite expensive items so companies wouldn’t have invested in them unless there was a market. I’ve heard that Frozen 2 is on the way.”

It would appear that superheroes are going to feature in the next trend.

Holly Taylor said: “I can see, with the

Picture courtesy of Edge Sculpture

rise in Marvel and DC movies which are due out over the next two years, comic book branding on loungewear items for the young adult being the next trend.”

Nick Morley from CID is of the same opinion: “From a merchandiser’s point of view we consider how successful a licence is by how much product we sell more than viewing figures, ticket or CD/ DVD sales.

“There are films, TV shows or music acts that sell lots of CDs, tickets etc but do not have that pull on merchandise.

“Over the last few years Superheroes have really moved from either very young kids or fan boy comic stores to the mainstream. Here at CID sales on

our DC comics range such as Batman, Superman, The Flash, Harley Quinn and Green Lantern have never been stronger. And without doubt Star Wars will be huge this year so we are looking to capitalise on this.”

Not everyone is seeing the same trends, however. “Trends we are seeing now are a hark back to the traditional country lane concepts, warm colours, animals and British country side – foxes, hedgehogs and stags show no sign of going away,” says Kelly Anne Barnacle of Coleshill Design. “We feel that customers are still looking for their home wares to be practical, beautiful – something they can use and display.”

Interesting Facts:

• Far from being a superhero Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, then pupils at Glenville High School in Cleveland, envisaged Superman as a telepathic, bald villain who wanted to rule the world.

• When it launched the iPod Apple decided not to produce accessories but to have licensees make them.

• Mickey Mouse’s popularity in the 1930s and 1940s resulted in an explosion of toys, books, and consumer products, none of which were manufactured by Disney. In 2013, Disney Consumer Products was the world’s leading licensor with $39.3 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise.

• The term Expanded Universe is an umbrella term for officially licensed Star Wars material outside of the six feature films.

• Batman began his film career in the 1940s. Having earned a total of $1,900,844,295, the Batman series is the fifth-highest-grossing film series in North America.

V&A Licensing continues the museum’s founding mission, taking inspiration from its extraordinarily diverse collections, to drive and excite designers, manufacturers and retailers. Licensing partners throughout the world create a broad range of products, from jewellery and beauty accessories to ceramic tableware, stationery and interior furnishings.

We will be exhibiting at Surtex, New York (17–19 May), booth #522 For further information contact: Lauren Sizeland Director of Business Development & Licensing +44 (0)20 7942 2981 licensing@vam.ac.uk

www.vandalicensing.com

Licensed Gifts

Gibsons

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Sherlock fever is taking the world by storm and Gibsons fulfil our whodunit needs with their two Sherlock Holmes-themed games.

221B Baker Street is one of Gibsons’ bestselling board games. The game has benefitted from a smart packaging update and a further 25 new cases to play through in the past year and ever since, the demand for this classic game has soared. Players begin at 221B Baker Street and travel through the streets of London, collecting clues to try to work out who has committed the crime. What makes this game different from other detective games is that instead of generic villains and weapons, each case tells a different story with different characters, so each time the game is played there is a new mystery to solve.

A new release in 2015, Sherlock Holmes the Card Game sees Sherlock and Watson on the trail of those notorious arch-villains, Professor Moriarty and Colonel Sebastian Moran. Players will travel between locations by hansom cab and train, seeking clues and suspects. Police inspectors, alibis and even thick fog will cause confusion, while players frantically attempt to pass on their villain cards to the other players to avoid being caught red handed. Finally, an Arrest will be made and Holmes and Watson will have cracked another intriguing case.

Packaged in a luxury gift box with silver foil finish, this product is ideal for the gift market.

Each Gibsons game is made from only the highest quality materials and makes a gift that can be treasured year after year.

Tel: 0208 661 8866 Web: www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Intelex

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The popularity of Intelex Group’s licensed products and their full range of Warmies shows no signs of slowing in 2015.

The licensed range under the Intelex Group portfolio includes fully heatable Bagpuss soft toys, slippers and boots, Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Boofle and the best-selling YooHoo and Friends.

The warming gifts category continues to grow in popularity both in the UK and around the world with thanks to fresh new designs that are attractive, functional and represent good value for money.

Intelex’s heatable plush toys are welcomed by consumers as fun and convenient replacements for traditional hot water bottles, making great gifts for young children and the young at heart.

Tel: 01933 679 777 Web: www.intelex.co.uk

36 gifts today

Licensed Gifts

Edge Sculpture

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Edge Sculpture, designed and sculpted by Matt Buckley, is a contemporary range of pieces with the intent to be both striking and unique and raging with life. Up until now the fierceness of the carnivore, the silent power of the ape and the striking beauty of a goddess has provided the brief for this fine art series of work. However, from late 2014 Matt was incredibly fortunate to gain the trust of the BBC and was given the permission to begin sculpting a Cyberman Bust in his very own unique style.

The only caveat from the BBC was that the bust be one of the latest variants of the Cybermen first seen in the Doctor

Who episode “A Nightmare in Silver�. And so it was that Matt was unleashed and began building the armature and throwing on the clay just as the BBC began the Doctor Who series 8 World Tour. The end result, as you can see here, is truly stunning.

As a mark of provenance, each sculpture will be provided with a signed certificate of authenticity.

Tel: 01952 884804 Email: sales@edgesculpture.com Web: www.edgesculpture.com

Personalised Memento Co

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Following the incredibly successful launch of Personalised Me to You gifts since Spring Fair the Personalised Memento Co has stormed the market with even more new designs. From stationery to mugs to unique gifts such as aprons and personalised tea pots. Me to You is regarded as being a well-recognised gift licence with the range of personalised gift designs set to expand even further this year. New to the range is the adorable plush Tatty Teddy, perfect for cuddles and smiles, the t-shirt can be personalised with a personal message ideal for mum, favourite aunt or special friend.

Other textile gifts include personalised shopper bags, perfect as an eco-friendly alternative plastic bags and a way to shop with style, made from 100 per cent cotton.

Me to you Personalised gifts are available now from PMC.

Tel: 01782 744 900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Web: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

38 gifts today

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Licensed Gifts

Complete Independent Distribution XXXX

Completely Independent Distribution (CID) are delighted to announce the signing of the phenomenal selling Adventure Time licence to add to their substantial roster. Since Adventure Time came to prominence two years ago, the sales of all related merchandise has been incredible and show no signs of slowing down.

CID’s range will consist of various designs featuring all the favourite characters across T-shirts, vests, baseball shirts, hooded tops and sweatshirt crews which will all be available in April/ May. Alongside the apparel CID will also be distributing the Kid Robot range of Adventure Time Collectable Toys which are sure to be huge, especially leading in Quarter 4.

Tel: 01162 581450 Email: salesteam@cidmerch.com Web: www.cidmerch.com

Fizz Creations

SSSS

Novelty Toy and Gifts Company Fizz Creations have found a way you can become a Jedi in your home and no longer fear the dark side… their phenomenal range of Star Wars lighting. With a collection of licensed neon lights, mood lights and LookAlites, you can illuminate your home with Star Wars lighting.

The Look-Alite is a fantastic little character light which the Star Wars branch of currently includes Darth Vader and Storm Trooper, both these quirky figures are instantly recognisable as the familiar characters from the Star Wars films and would be the perfect gift for anyone who wishes to possess a piece of the force. The

40 gifts today

Mood Lights are also available in Darth Vader or Storm Trooper, and as they are constructed as the famous helmets themselves their resemblance is uncanny.

It doesn’t stop there though, as 2015 goes on, in a Galaxy (not so) far, far away, Fizz Creations intends to expand the range to include more characters.

Tel: 01903 327006 Email: sales@fizzcreations.com Web: www.fizzcreations.com

/,&(1&(' '(6,*16 Licenced Designs Sara Page is our local renowned Designer here in the West Midlands Emma Ball’s popular Puffin design is available on our products alonside her beuatiful regional water colours A touch of Sweden from Anna Viktoria Brand New for 2015 Villager Jim Look out for our Arisit Collection coming later this year, new exciting designs from some up and coming Designers

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Licensed Gifts

Museums & Galleries XXXX Museums & Galleries Ltd successful Gift Stationery range was extended with the release of the company’s 2015 Brochure in January. In addition to new products from the British Library and Wedgwood Museum, the central story was focused on a range of Gifting products from the V&A based using four bestselling patterns.

Already available within the range as either Gift or Poster Wraps, the four key patterns (Strawberry Thief, Almond Blossom, Voysey Owls and Chintz Roses) can now be matched with gift boxes, gift bags and tissue paper. Boxes are sold as a single nest of four boxes (at a very competitive trade price of £6.99 per nest), bags come in three sizes each with matching tags (Trade £0.83, £1.04 and £1.14 for small, medium and large respectively), and tissue paper is sold in cello packs of four sheets at a trade price of £1.04 per pack. Feedback at Spring Fair was universally positive and sales have shown immediate take-up from customers.

As well as Gifting Products, the V&A range also saw the introduction of a new Softcover Journal, offering a tactile cover with 160 lined pages and a coloured ribbon. The range of eight journals features a mix of new and classic designs,

including patterns from William Kilburn, William Morris, EH Seguy, an original design for a board game titled Wonders of the World and a classic Indian pattern to tie in with the V&A›s forthcoming summer exhibition.

Products will be on show and available to order at the London Stationery Show, 28-29 April, Stand M448.

Tel: 01373 462165 Web: www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Neviti - Guess How Much I Love You TTTT

Neviti

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Neviti are delighted to be launching their licensed Dennis The Menace & Gnasher collection of tableware and party essentials. Featuring the mischievous duo from the renowned Beano comic, this collection is sure to be a big hit with fans of the brand both young and old. The collection offers a vibrant selection of tableware including plates, cups, bowls, treat tubs and napkins featuring Dennis and Gnasher illustrations and fun phrases from the comic book. The range also offers some fun stationery including name stickers perfect for your party guests to wear or for labelling cups or party bags and fun invitations inviting menaces to ‘join an awesome party.’ The decorations in the range co-ordinate perfectly with the vibrant tableware and include red and black party balloons with phaaart text or a Gnasher design and an eye-catching paper bunting perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Cathy Locke, Creative Manager at Neviti, commented: “This has been such a fun collection to produce, working with the fantastic Dennis and Gnasher characters.

We hope fans of the iconic comic book both young and old will love this range as much as we have loved designing it.”

Tel: 0845 638 1358 Web: www.neviti.com 42 gifts today

Expand your product range for Christenings, baby showers and first birthday celebrations with the gorgeous new Guess How Much I Love You collection from Neviti, based on the bestselling children’s book. Featuring stunning original illustrations and logos in a delicate pastel colour palette, this range includes all your celebration must-haves such as paper plates, cups, treat tubs and bowls.

Other necessities such as napkins and pretty cake cases are featured in the collection which draws inspiration from the heart-warming story of a father hare explaining to his little son just how much he loves him.

Room decorations complement the tableware and include adorable bunting, a simple way to add some colour to your party room and pretty confetti featuring a mix of designs – scattered across a party table or around a cake table this confetti adds a sweet touch to room décor. Other pieces featured in the range include packs of 8 balloons in a mix of two designs, featuring Little Brown Hare holding out a daisy and the Guess How Much I Love You logo.

The range also extends to stationery so the party host can co-ordinate every aspect of their little one’s special day.

Tel: 0845 638 1358 Web: www.neviti.com

Rugby World Cup Commemorative Mug

TTTT

A new innovative and fun member to Pyramid Internationals’ officially licensed Premier Commemorative Mug Collection, is the player mug. This dishwasher and microwave-proof mug incorporates the Rugby World Cup logo and makes an ideal gift for any rugby aficionado at home or in the office.

The 11oz ceramic mug is available in all leading gift and sports shops soon along with the full range of Pyramid’s Rugby World Cup merchandise.

Tel: 0116 284 3645 Email: john.malins@pyramidinternational.com

Cheers to the 2015 World cup!

SSSS As one of the second phase of products in Pyramid International’s Rugby World Cup Collection, the hip flask set is the ideal gift to toast your favourite team during the world cup this autumn (18 September to 31 October). The stainless steel flask is passivated, therefore removing any metallic taste and potential for staining from oak aged spirits.

Pyramid International has a range of official licensed merchandise, which includes mugs, wall art posters, canvas and framed prints, key chains, wristbands and calendars. Soon to be added to the category, will be Shaun the Sheep merchandise.

The Rugby World Cup Collection, of which the first mugs rolled out during late 2014, will be joined by a comprehensive array of England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand merchandise.

Tel: 0116 284 3645 Email: john.malins@pyramidinternational.com

gifts today 43

Licensed Gifts

Award-winning licensing programme In its position as the world’s leading museum of art and design the Victoria and Albert Museum has always been a place of inspiration.

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he V&A’s extraordinarily diverse collections inspire excellence in design and drive and excite designers, retailers and manufacturers across the world.

Its award-winning licensing programme continues the museum’s founding principles. It provides an exclusive resource for research and design of all products developed under the ‘Inspired’ label. In identifying patterns or styles that are seasonally on trend, licensees are given scope to

As well as enjoying the treat of a little piece of the V&A. 2015 is a very exciting year for the V&A, as the greatly anticipated exhibition Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty runs until August and Shoes: Pleasure and Pain will be open between June 2015 and March 2016. These high profile shows

As provenance is key throughout V&A packaging, marketing and the products themselves, customers are able to learn about the V&A and its collection from a distance adapt colours and highlight particular details to give the designs relevance and appeal. The products have a visual language that is recognisable both within the Museum and retail stores in the global market. Categories include homeware, apparel, jewellery, accessories, stationery and gifts.

As provenance is key throughout V&A packaging, marketing and the products themselves, customers are able to learn about the V&A and its collection from a distance. The additional appeal to the consumer is that all profits are covenanted to the V&A to help it to maintain its position as the world’s greatest collection of art and design, funding exhibitions, research, conservation and collecting for the future.

In developing ranges inspired by these magnificent collections, it is hoped that consumers will gain some understanding of the historical source from which each collection is inspired.

44 gifts today

are expected to generate more demand from new licensees who will value the brand association.

Exhibiting at Surtex, New York (17-19 May), booth #522 Email: licensing@vam.ac.uk Web: www.vandalicensing.com

Interesting fun facts: • The Museum was built in part of Brompton, in the western outskirts of London, but the Museum authorities re-christened the area South Kensington, which sounded more fashionable.

• The first Director, Sir Henry Cole, described the Museum in 1857 as “a refuge for destitute collections.” More than a century later Sir Roy Strong called it “an extremely capacious handbag.”

• The South Kensington Museum (as the V&A was originally called) was the first museum in the world to provide a public restaurant.

• The V&A’s buildings occupy 12 acres of land in South Kensington, and are over a third of a mile in circumference.

• There are seven miles of galleries in the V&A. • The wartime Special Operations Executive used the Royal College of Art building at the back of the V&A to fit out spies who were to be dropped into France.

• Queen Victoria was said to be shocked by the nudity of a full-size plaster-cast of Michelangelo’s ‘David’. A suitably proportioned fig leaf was made, and hung on the figure using a pair of hooks when dignitaries visited. Today, the fig leaf is no longer used.

• The V&A owns a copy of the first commercially produced Christmas card, which was invented in 1843 by the Museum’s first Director, Henry Cole.

Coleshill Design

Coleshill are always excited to have new licence opportunities. Having on-trend current designs and images on their products is a great pleasure and allows them to keep their product range up to date alongside their traditional customer favourites.

The headline licence this year for them has to be their new Villager Jim Range. Beautiful, English country lane photography portrayed onto high quality melamine home wares, which really do complement each other.

They are really excited to later this year be launching their Artist Collection, where they will be do a short term licence agreement for a select few artists and designers who normally would not have the opportunity to see their work across a wide product range, accessible by so many independent and national customers. They believe manufacturers such as themselves have a unique position to be able to help along new and upcoming designers and sometimes a licence agreement is the best way to do this.

Tel: 0845 505 2808 Email: sales@coleshilldesign.com Web: www.coleshilldesign.com

The V&A Gifting range: Timeless, Quality, Coordinated.

Gift Boxes: 4 Designs in 4 sizes

SIA HOME FASHION www.sia-homefashion.co.uk For over 50 years SIA Home Fashion has led the world market with our passion for bringing beauty and sophistication into the home.

Famous for our handmade flowers and envied for our deco product, we have retail partners who have been loyal customers for many years.

After a recent restructure SIA UK are currently seeking sales agents in all areas excluding Scotland and Ireland.

ED L L I F N We are looking forSagents to join us who, like us, share a PO ITIO passion for design and excellence.

If you wish to join us on our exciting journey forward then please email your CV and covering letter to the UK Director Mr Simon Pykett on simon.pykett@sia-homefashion. com To be considered you must have long term experience and contacts within the home and giftware sector and will already be selling to garden centres, gift shops, independent department stores and boutiques.

Simon Pykett Country Manager and Director Phone : +44 (0)1635 39881 E-mail : simon.pykett@sia-homefashion.com

Gift Bags: 4 Designs in 3 sizes Matching Tissue Paper also available Tel: 01373 462165 Email: sales@mgml.co.uk

www.museumsgalleries.co.uk gifts today 45

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Regular - Rachel Parkin

The age of individuality and micro production

Rachel Parkin

Technology, social media and the whole internet has enabled a new generation to live, make choices and define themselves in a completely new way - for those of us struggling to keep up or see the relevance – I hear you. It can be hard to see the relevance of a selfie, but bear with me…

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et’s take a stroll back through the last sixty years or so, to put my theory into context.

Mass media exists because it allows mass marketers to do their job – pretty much everything you read or watch is funded in some way by advertising… Take a second and think about that, how much advertising permeates our lives!

I propose that the advent of mass production abilities way back around the 1920s created a need for mass marketing.

Logic says that in order to shift greater quantities of things you can make in ever greater quantities you need mass marketing – so in the beginning newspapers and magazines, radio, then television.

Wikipedia defines mass marketing as market coverage strategy in which a firm decides to ignore market segment differences and appeal the whole market with one offer or one strategy. Mass marketing is the polar opposite to niche marketing as it focuses on high sales and low prices. Mass marketing aims to provide products and services that will appeal to the whole market.

And how has this changed?

Fast forward a few decades and with the advent of the internet everything changed. The internet wasn’t invented so that marketers could create internet adverts – sure they do create them, but what the internet basically does is create a million niche markets. Niche marketing targets a very specific segment of market for example specialised services or goods with few or no competitors (or no sizeable competitors) Think of a left-handed only shop, or a shoe shop only for people with extra large feet for instance.

46 gifts today

So for most advertisers the ongoing decline of mass media is a huge challenge.

As it becomes ever harder and more expensive for the short tail search, the long tail search becomes more and more significant

This is both coupled with and fuelling the resurgence of micro production.

Interest in hand-made, customised, individualised products is at an all time high. Sites such as Not on the High Street and many others are experiencing massive traffic as customers search for ever more personalised and niche products. So much so that micro production is becoming sexy.

So for most advertisers the ongoing decline of mass media is a huge challenge.

As it becomes ever harder and more expensive for the short tail search, the long tail search becomes more and more significant.

This demise could be seen as terrifying, or as the opportunity of a lifetime for the next generation.

For five decades TV and mass media was the shortcut to the masses, average stuff for average people, promoting in a spray and pay strategy.

But since very definition of mass is fading away (it doesn’t necessarily compute that if you show everyone what you have, everyone will like it). Now, more than ever, people want individuality Today I propose that the micro market is the way forward. One person at a time, one long tail key search at a time, one personalised birthday card at a time, one bespoke piece of jewellery, one surpassing of expectation at a time.

Marketing to a micro market is a whole lot easier than marketing to a mass market – it’s a whole lot cheaper too. The way I see it, the whole supply chain, structure of retail and high street is breaking down and reassembling. If you want to be at the top of the debris after the implosion thinking about what you do differently would be the best place to start. This has gone way past the advent of great customer service this clearly won’t help if you don’t have any footfall in your town. What might help is fabulous Facebook marketing (you can buy books on this for under £25, you can watch webinars, you can play about for tiny sums of money) a clear and precise brand image and a definitive brand led strategy, oh and a barrel load of guerrilla marketing.

You can be incredibly important to your niche market and your niche market doesn’t have to be local. It could be national, global or mums at your children’s school. It is whatever you decide it is. So rather than asking how big your market is? Think instead about how much more effective it would be to be important to your niche market, to be irreplaceable to them, to solve a problem for them, to educate them and the only way to be important is to be relevant, focused and specific.

Rachel Parkin is managing director of jewellery wholesaler Balagan. She also runs independent gift shop Trollbeads and contemporary jeweller Pandora’s Box in Cambridge.

It’s the big fish, small pond analogy.

Today it’s better to be a big fish in a small pond rather than a minnow in a sea. A micro market can be a safe market, a general market can be, well just too damn general.

Email: rachel@balagan.co.uk Rachel suggests that you might like to look at the following Retail Rehab website as it’s a free resource for retailers.

Web: www.retailrehab.co.uk

New T hai Incense Collection HAND MADE CANDLES & INCENSE GIFT SETS

These incense and mini cand le gift sets are made for Namaste in Nort her n Thailand on a fair trade basis. The range is extensive and is in addition t o t heir already best-sel ling range which includes mini animal and heart cand les.

HAND MADE IN THAILAND

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global inspirations... traded fairly

Exhibition Review: Ambiente

Ambiente...

Hundreds of aisles, thousands of exhibitors, so many products Gifts Today visits Messe Frankurt’s Ambiente and talks to some of the UK exhibitors to find out how well they fared. Was it a success and will they be back? After much worn shoe leather, Publisher Mark Naish finds out

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mbiente, the last in a long line of shows and its the big one! More than 4,700 companies exhibt at Ambiente making it one of the world’s largest consumer goods fairs (see boxout for all the impressive stats).

I have been to ambiente many times over the years and it truly is an international show, with more than 75 percent of the exhibitors and just over 50 percent of visitors being nonGerman. What I wanted to find out was how the British contingent fared which, as it turned out was very well.

There is little point as a Brit exhibitimg here unless you are looking for international business in some shape or form.

Almost all the exhibitors I spoke to mentioned that in addition to

Ambiente Facts • Number of exhibitors: 4,749

• Non German visitors by region 50% EU 16% Rest of Europe 21% Asia 9% America 4% Other

• Trade visitors by sector 43% Retail 22% Wholesale/Export 19% Services 4% manufactoring

sales they picked up either new or potential international distributors, invaluable to many companies when expanding overseas.

The first day was busy; the hall’s full with buyers seeking out the newest product. Visiting exhibitors to get their view of the exhibition is understandably premature on the first day, which gave me time to walk the halls and get a sense of the show and what value it would be to British buyers who might consider coming next year. General gifts can be found in hall nine, which given that it is on two floors (three, if you include the ground floor which is gifts and interior decoration) is a lot of product. With so many exhibitors from around the world, it is a safe bet that as a British buyer you will find product that works in the UK but is unlikely to be found elsewhere. I have visited most of the key UK shows this year and they all had fantastic product, but I saw plenty that I hadn’t seen before in the UK and I don’t just mean stereotyped reginal product, I mean ranges that would sell well in Britain.

Hall 11 is Messe’s newest hall, opening in 2009, has two levels, is very modern and airy, but also busy. Upstairs is Loft containing product for the home and the ground floor is general gift, both very much on trend and contemporary.

The first night the organisers always stage a lavish exhibitors party in the

Joanne Thompson from Herdy posing with one of their Peep mugs

Hugo Middleton (Left) and Jude Ludgate of Mens Society and top their Damn Handsome Beard Kit

It’s here!

Gary Schaffer and Claire G Swinburne of United S Odd Socks O

Festhalle which first opened its doors in 1909 fact fans. Every year it is themed for the host nation. This years host was the USA and what a night. For in the centre of the theatre was a New York Police car and taxi. With excellent music and food (all free of charge!) it was a great night, enjoyed by all.

Over the next couple of days, the halls were bustling and I did get to speak to some of the UK contingent all of whom were having a good show. Hugo from the Men’s Society told me it was a successful event and that they would be looking to return. Harriet Hewitson of Milly Green was also happy not just with orders but the level of interest from International distributors was an added bonus.

So all in all a great show, very well organised, some great product for visiting UK buyers and a lot of business for UK exhibitors. That, my friends, is what we call a successful show!

TV Helping everyone sell EVEN more!

If you would like to find out more about exhibiting or visiting Ambiente call Mills Richey Sherwood Event Services Tel: 01483 483983 UK and Ireland Sales Partner for Messe Frankfurt GmbH

Exhibitor Contacts • Herdy: 01539 739202 • Mens Society: 01406 362633 • United Odd Socks: 01582 882124 • Luxa Flamelighting: 020 7585 0055

Stock toys as well as gifts?

Toys ‘n’ Playthings, sister title of Gifts Today has launched TnP TV a weekly TV show hosted at www.toysnplaythings.co.uk For all the latest goings on in the toy trade it’s not to be missed!

Luxa Flamelighting’s Michael Nicholas

If you distribute toys and would like more details on how you could profile your company and products to 60,000+ viewers contact Ryan Horwood on 01442 289930 ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

London Stationery Show

Discover something new at London Stationery Show As the biggest London Stationery Show yet prepares for its fifth outing - it has grown every year since its 2011 launch - organisers have promised visitors they will find plenty to catch their eye!

“W

ith over 200 stationery brands and suppliers from around the world gathered in one place, we are confident that our visitors, whether they are mainstream stationery buyers or looking for more quirky or boutique products to suit a particular age group or market, will find it at the show!” says director Chris Leonard-Morgan.

The London Stationery Show takes place on Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 April at the Business Design Centre in London. It is the only UK trade show dedicated to stationery and writing products, and its focus on fashionable, functional and fun products has created a unique platform for suppliers to show off their latest design led creations.

For gift and greeting buyers in particular there is a real momentum for new products in higher end boutique

50 gifts today

lines from suppliers such as ExaClair, Wild & Wolf, Parker, Cross and Sheaffer and the burgeoning desktop gifts category, which is embodied by suppliers such as Mustard, NPW, Luckies of London and Lexon which between them produce fun, wacky and seriously grown up desktop products, all of which make perfect gifts.

Other categories include writing products, notebooks, diaries, calendars, social stationery, filing and storage, licensed and children’s stationery, leather goods, wrap and desktop.

“One in three exhibitors are new to this year’s show and over two thirds are exclusive to it, so they haven’t been seen by buyers anywhere else in the UK this year, says Chris.

“The exhibition is an exceptional opportunity for buyers to get to grips with how the stationery market is developing and how these fashionable

and creative products can fit into their offer.”

The fantastic line up of top names includes Filofax, Lamy, Semikolon, Quadrille, Letts, Pyramid, uni-ball, Collins, Midori, Maped Helix, Staedtler, Zebra Pen, Otter House, Faber-Castell,

Stationery Awards, judged by a panel of leading independent and multiple retailers will be centre stage on arrival at the show. The awards highlight the year’s standout products, helping to give visitors a view of trends to come.

This year not only marks the show’s

This year not only marks the show’s biggest exhibitor line-up to date, but also the role it plays in the wider view of the stationery industry which includes the hugely popular consumer campaign, National Stationery Week, which is also run by the London Stationery Show.

National Stationery Week Pukka Pads, Enveco, Montegrappa, Leuchtturm1917, Stabilo, Caran d’Ache, Santoro, Portico Designs, Paperblanks, Sinclairs/Silvine, Kaweco, Snopake, Castelli, Knock Knock, and Pentel.

In addition, the show’s annual

biggest exhibitor line-up to date, but also the role it plays in the wider view of the stationery industry. It also includes the hugely popular consumer campaign, National Stationery Week, which in addition is run by the London Stationery Show. National Stationery

Exhibitor Stand No

Week runs from 27 April to 3 May, and will include for the first time on 29 April, World Stationery Day. The two campaigns work very closely together; at trade level, buyers can attend the London Stationery Show and meet the people behind almost every major stationery brand in the UK market and key international suppliers, from countries as far flung as China and Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Germany, India, Ireland, Latvia, Singapore, Spain, the USA and Vietnam, along with plenty of names new to the industry. In addition, they can easily participate in National Stationery Week. This UK-wide consumer campaign reached more than 20 million consumers last year

“National Stationery Week, and for the first time this year World Stationery Day, encourage people to share what they like about stationery, what their favourite products and brands are to inspire creativity, and even their favourite retailers. And of course, encourages more people to write by hand and not just text or email.

“The widespread enthusiasm for these events is helping to promote and grow the stationery and writing products market for everyone,” says Chris.

“Stationery is a dynamic market, which reflects and unites many different trends – from new colours, textures and fashion to changes in social habits and etiquette. Combined with

“Stationery is a dynamic market, which reflects and unites many different trends – from new colours, textures and fashion to changes in social habits and etiquette.”

Christopher Leonard-Morgan and celebrates the written word and all things stationery.

Retailers wanting to get involved can download all the images associated with the campaign from www. nationalstationeryweek.com and register as a Participating Retailer via email to georgina@smallmanmedia. com to benefit from being part of the campaign.

the enduring appeal of a handwritten note, and the fact you are much more likely to remember something if you have written it down, it creates a great synergy between consumers’ appetite for new products and those producing them,” concludes Chris.

The London Stationery Show is the place to see them all.

To register to attend the London Stationery Show and browse the exhibitor list go to www.stationeryshow.co.uk, and for more information on the consumer campaign visit www.nationalstationeryweek.com.

A T Cross Abrams & Chronicle Books Amodex Antalis BDS Office Blake Envelopes Bong UK Brother UK Browntrout Publishers Bruce Douglas Busy B Butterick Company CARL Carla Craft Carole Group Castelli Cathedral Products Centrum Europa Clipper Retail Collins Debden Cordello Home Craft & Stationery UK Crownn Designlines DKL Marketing Dodo Pad Durable Edding Enveco Exaclair Flame Tree Publishing FLB Group Funky Brilliant Gadgets GBA Pen Genie GF Smith GO Stationery Hide Stationery Hillcrest Marketing Inkviva Jakar International Jet Tec International Karl Meisenbach Lamy Leuchtturm1917 Lexon Lime Internet LSM Luckies of London Luxor UK Mad Stuff Magic Whiteboard Manuscript Pen Maped Helix Modrec International Monolith UK Montegrappa Museums & Galleries Mustard Newell Rubbermaid Nightingale International Ningbo-Link Art Paper Notable Designs NoteShel

M730 M629 M720 G103 M334 M738 M649 M401 M748 M640 M631 M735 G211 G100 G121 M538 M415 M620 M324 M638 M531 M310 G122 M531 G221 M515 M348 M540 M648 M501 M305 G212 M607 M618 M405 G200 M349 M440 M740 G125 M709 M316 M716 M630 M400 G215 M421 M406 M605 M407 M650 M516 M315 M506 M312 M441 M617 M448 M321 M422 M320 M711 M528 G111

NPW

M420

Nuco International

M701

OLFA

M325

Organise-US

M722

Otter House

M416

Paperblanks

M449

Paperlinx

M739

PaperPro

M337

Parax Paper

M539

PCC/M&G Stationery

M331

Penfold Card & Gift

M641

Pentel

M610

Peter Pauper Press Inc

M537

Piano Pens

G219

Portico Design

M648

Postsafe

M439

Pran-RFL

G208

Premier Grip

G116

Presco Group a s

M749

Publishers Group

M725

Pukka Pads

M428

Pyramid International

M330

Quadrille Publishing

M706

Quiver Pen Holders

M635

Reliable Source

G222

Robert Frederick

M616

Sadipal Arconvert S.A.

M743

Sambro International

M341

Santoro

G203

Semikolon

M303

Shachihata

M721

Shiny Stamps/Stamps Direct

M600

Sinclairs

M408

SLG

G226

Snopake Brands

M729

Spring Innovative Workshop

M301

Stabilo International

M621

Staedtler

M541

Stationery Market

M742

Stewart Superior

G102

Stone Marketing

M521

Strawberry Design & Marketing M350 Studio Pens

M520

T-Tag Technologies

G107

Tallon International

M700

Tesa UK

M339

Thames & Hudson

M510

The Art File

M507

The Colman Group

M548

The Hira Company

M346

The Paper Stone

G114

Thien Long

M308

Totto

M728

Trinity Xtras

M715

Trodat UK

G112

Two Little Boys

M639

uni-ball

M710

West Design

M530

Whitefurze

M438

Wild & Wolf

M340

Woodware Craft Collection

G231

Write Size

G225

Zebra Pen(UK)

M601

gifts today 51

Beach Themed

Life’s a beach Formerly the preserve of coastal dwellers, now everyone can enjoy beachware

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t is not just on holiday that beaches come into people’s lives. Now there is a whole scene of beach-related giftware and according to some that trend is only going to increase this year.

Once upon a time you would have to go to the coast to see items of seaware; dockside taverns would be decorated with bottles that one housed some exotic spirit now used as a candle holder or above bar accoutrements.

That has all changed and now the seas have began dominating the lives of landlubbers.

Joyte Brown of RJB Stone told us: “2015 sees an increasing demand for beach-themed gifts and home accessories, as this classic look is injected into trend-inspired products.

This year’s catwalks are featuring nautical themes and the colour

at Heaven Sends, also believes that the beach theme has moved ‘inshore’. She said: “Consumers have been right ‘on board’, readily incorporating maritimethemed items into their bathrooms and en-suites. More recently, retailers have seen a rise in sales of beach style homeware, due to consumers including more and more nautical products throughout the home.”

Surprisingly, RJB Stone have found that the nautical theme has permeated into the worlds of wedding. Joyte Brown remarked: “Notably, the 2015 world of weddings has fully embraced the coastal theme, with bridal fashion encouraging surf-hair and mermaid-style gowns in coral and teals. Wedding decorations are natural, fresh and distinctly seaside, with a preference for finding a wedding location at the seaside if possible. With this, invariably comes the increased

Crockery, cushions and photo frames are but a few of the seaside style products that will increase in popularity over the summer months, as weddings get going. palettes inspiring designers this season; pastels, natural tones and muted greys, blues and stone, lend themselves perfectly to exploring the saltier side of life.”

Retailer Suzanne O’Leary founded her Little Beach Boutique in 2011 in a former fisherman’s arch in the Artist’s Quarter on Brighton Beach.

Suzanne decided to diversify her range of gifts in May 2014 and Little Beach Boutique moved to a larger space in the vibrant and bustling shopping centre of the North Laine in Brighton. “Much of the success of Little Beach Boutique has been down to building a strong online presence.

As I work in a competitive market, the ability to interact and engage with my customers is made possible via the shop’s digital presence, particularly when it comes to my social media channels,” she said.

Ashley Barber, the head of marketing 52 gifts today

demand for coastal and beach-themed wedding gifts and home accessories.

Crockery, cushions and photo frames are but a few of the seaside style products that will increase in popularity over the summer months, as weddings get going.”

Again, Ashley Barber: “Coastalthemed gifts have been a prevailing concept among seaside-located home and gift shops in years gone by, however in recent times this trend has filtered in-land to retailers nationwide. Weather worn woods in chalky, paint flaked colours, distressed photo frames and signs with rusted metal accents, smooth porcelain shell decorations – all things that consumers are accumulating and displaying in their seashore inspired homes.”

Joyte said: “The burgeoning numbers of stay-cationers and increased demand for holiday accommodation of the past few years has created

Making Waves in Your Kitchen XXXX Novelty Toy & Gifts Company Fizz Creations have got the answer to getting the coolest kitchen – a Surfboard Cheese Grater with Stand which will make the kitchen groovy and make cooking as easy as catching a wave.

The Surfboard Cheese Grater with Stand is a beach lover’s kitchen favourite, a quirky accessory which brightens up one of the most boring and tiresome food preparation tasks. It has a rubber border to avoid hand slips whilst grating and its sand stand makes it a show piece for the kitchen. Any surfer or beach lover would be happy with this board as you don’t even have to wait for a grate wave!

The best part about the Surfboard Cheese Grater is that everyone can see a bit of the beach in their kitchen all the time. This item is currently available from Fizz Creations.

Tel: 01903 327006 Email: sales@fizzcreations.com Web: www.fizzcreations.com a whimsical desire to re-create the look and feel of coastal bliss in the home and where it was once limited to driftwood and lighthouse prints in bathrooms, you will now find interior designers taking the stripped-back timber and stormy beach aesthetics of the British coastline and implanting them in dining rooms, living rooms and even bedrooms. The effect is one of

calming serenity and a one-ness with nature.

“These trends reflect people searching for the good life, an increased desire for serenity and a nostalgic desire to get back to nature.

As players in the home and gift field, our belief is that retailers choosing to embrace the coastal theme will find that life’s a beach.

Fun Facts: • The first seaside resorts were opened in the 18th century for the aristocracy.

• The longest beach in the world is the Praia do Cassino in Brazil which is 132 miles long.

• One of the earliest such seaside resorts, was Scarborough in Yorkshire during the 1720s.

• It was the railways that allowed the final development of coastal towns as holiday resorts.

• In the Maldives is an artificial beach that is named Artificial Beach.

The Walking Stick Specialists Traditional and contemporary Walking sticks, seats and umbrellas for ladies and gentlemen

Joe Davies XXXX

What better way to carry all your essential beach accessories than these Fabulous Equilibrium Bright Tote Bags from Joe Davies.

Practical, with a large zipped main pocked and a usefully concealed zipped internal pocket, bright and fun, the bags come in over a dozen fabulous designs to suit all tastes. With retail prices at just ÂŁ7.99 the collection is available in Joe Davies famed ‘Little & Often’ quantities and will undoubtedly prove to be a great summer sizzler.

The Equilibrium Bright Tote bags are part of the 8000 + items available in Joe Davies extensive collection. Minimum orders just ÂŁ100 and delivery is free nationwide.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Web: www.joedavies.co.uk

Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ Tel +44 (0)1460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk gifts today 53

Beach Themed

Emma Ball XXXX

Classic Canes WWWW Walking stick specialists Classic Canes stock over 700 different models of walking sticks and believe they have one for every outfit and every occasion. An appropriate stick for the seaside is this height-adjustable derby cane, vividly patterned with colourful fish, coral and shimmering water. Managing partner Charlotte Gillan comments, “This is a fabulous, upbeat cane. It is proving very popular with ladies going on cruises and accessorising summer outfits with a cane that makes a very cheerful statement. Being easily height-adjustable, it also makes a perfect present.”

Tel: 01460 75686 Web: www. classiccanes.co.uk

Did you know that at Emma Ball Ltd you can bespoke existing artwork with a place name? Well they can and it’s proving very popular with customers. Shown here is an example of a tea towel designed for a customer in Scotland!

With minimums as low as 100 on certain products is this something you cannot afford to miss?

Tel: 9858081 Email: sales@emmaball.co.uk Web: www.emmaball.co.uk

Shruti Designs XXXX Shruti Designs have created a wonderful range of products inspired by trips to the coast and relaxed seaside living.

The collection includes some delightful and original lines, perfect for those lazy summer days; Blankets in soft blues and sea greens, seahorse motive cushions, fun sunglass sleeves and ipad covers, and many fabulous nautical themed gift ideas with beach living in mind.

Driftwood styled picture frames, candle holders, seaside wall art, aqua ceramics and glassware are just some of the items that make up the strong product story this summer.

New for 2015 from the company’s British Talent focus, designer Casey Rogers has created the Regatta Collection. This pretty selection of fashion accessories was inspired by seaside holidays – sailboats on the water and sea gulls in the sky; Fun and functional sling bags, cute back packs, co-ordinating stripy scarves in soft cotton and a variety of make-up purses and washbags are not to be missed.

Visit them at Pulse on stand, F66.

Tel: +44 (0)1985 847774 Email: hello@shrutidesigns. co.uk 54 gifts today

BCTF

British and beautifully crafted 12th - 14th April 2015

T

he British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) represents the best of British art and design.

BCTF was launched 40 years ago, with the sole purpose of showcasing top British Crafts to the giftware industry, mainly to independent gift shops, heritage outlets and galleries.

The Arts and Crafts movement of the early Twentieth Century celebrated all that was great about British handmade. Today, with established makers such as Grayson Perry fuelling the imagination of our future stars, Britain continues to leave its mark on the creative world and BCTF represents the very best designer makers with an excellent representation coming from all disciplines.

With 500+ exhibitors at the 2015 fair all disciplines are represented, and exhibitors are

My Letters From…

eager and ready to supply to trade buyers.

Everything you see at the fair is handmade in Britain, and with the increasing demand for genuine British products BCTF offers trade buyers the opportunity to source unique work to satisfy collectors and consumers alike.

Many of our exhibitors can work to commission, creating collections and products that will fit with any specialist exhibitions or events that you may be hosting.

A visit to BCTF is always inspirational and pleasurable, parking directly outside the venue, easy registration process, high quality venue catering and a relaxed but business friendly atmosphere, it will make your buying experience a pleasure.

If you are a trade buyer in any sector of the home and gift industry apply for your free invitation by registering now.

The British Craft Trade Fair Hall 1 The Great Yorkshire Showground Harrogate, HG2 8QZ Dates: 12 – 14 April 2015 Web: www.bctf.co.uk REGISTRATION – Go to www.bctf.co.uk

On these pages you will find a representation of the talented trade exhibitors that will be present at this year’s fair.

TTTT

Stand number N15

Customised ‘photo font’ pictures from around the world with a selection of the most popular words printed onto canvas and hand finished in a wooden frame.

They also print their designs onto mugs, T-shirts and can incorporate logos into the designs.

Remnant Black XXXX Stand number N11 Specialising in darkly stitched delights; alternative embroidery inspired by anatomy, vintage medical books and Victoriana.

Much of their work explores anatomy and scientific subjects, mixed with a dark sense of humour and vintage soft edge.

gifts today 55

BCTF

Jenny Pearce

Tildy’s Room

XXXX Stand number N28

WWWW Stand number 355 Driftwood cottage scenes inspired by the Yorkshire Jurassic coast and villages.

Tildy’s affinity with recycle means that she frequently uses found items from beaches into her work creating unique gift and homeware.

Willow baskets, woven from unstripped willow with its variety of texture and colour.

Jenny’s work is both functional and beautiful. Her inspiration comes from the rugged nature of the West of Ireland.

Alice Maud

WWWW

Stand number N8 Traditional style calico dolls which for centuries were a staple part of a child’s nursery, are making an extraordinary come back, as a tailored, high fashion, top quality gift.

Loved by adults and children and adults, Alice Maud dolls have a huge nostalgic appeal and they all carry their own embroidered golden heart logo and they include a certificate of authentication which is individually numbered and signed.

Memo Illustration TTTT Stand number 94

Hand screen printed stationery, art prints and accessories, inspired by mid century kitsch.

Each item is individually printed by hand onto 100% recycled locally sourced card and paper stocks. Bold colours, striking imagery and hand drawn lettering are key in the design process.

Calico Tree XXXX Stand number 77 Flat pack fabric vases.

A reversible fabric vase cover in a variety of cotton, linen and silk fabrics and individually gift wrapped. All of their range uses recycled materials.

56 gifts today

BCTF

Adrian Higgins Visual Artist XXXX Stand number 302

David’s of Stoke

A freelance visual artist, Adrian uses old photographs and using digital imaging software creates high quality limited edition prints and greeting cards. His work is always humorous, quirky and often provocative.

SSSS

Stand number 455

David is a ceramic designer and manufacturer based in the historic world renowned centre for ceramics of Stoke-on-Trent. His work is influenced by the English Arts and Crafts movement and using bold graphic designs his latest range includes a new black and white style embellished with platinum.

Kalypso Glass WWWW Stand number 189 Contemporary lampwork and fused glass for the home, from Christmas decorations to jewellery and cabinet knobs, all formed by manipulating glass using fire and heat.

Gin Durham

WWWW

Stand number 75

Gin’s quirky ceramics draw on imagery which has been shaped by treasured tales and translated into beautiful figurines and vessels. Her figures are rich in both features and character.

Mirjami Design Some interesting facts: • More than 500 exhibitors • Established for 40 years • Promoting British hand-made giftware • Three-day event • Strictly trade only

XXXX Stand number 446 Animal character soft sculpture paperweights created by artist Laura Mirjami. Her collectable animal characters are available in real life and as a range of greeting cards. gifts today 57

Christmas Gifts

It’s Christmaaaassssssss!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year so what can we learn about Christmas gifts?

I

t’s regarded by many as the most popular holiday of the year and it certainly is one of the most expensive as people battle to buy presents for friends and family.

It is not just presents but people also spend money on decorations for the house. We asked a number of those in the know for their take on Christmas decorations.

Premier Decorations is one of the biggest companies in the Christmas industry. Jo Marsden of Premier told us: “Whatever the colour of your home, whatever you choose as the colours for your Christmas decorations, there will be a range of Christmas gifts to match your style and budget.”

Traditionally the colours of Christmas

traditional or could there be something new on the horizon?

If what we have been told is anything to by then we can expect some new and exciting trends in and around our homes come November and December.

Jo Marsden commented on upcoming trends: “Copper and pewter are among this year’s stronger colour trends – both of these colours can be seen throughout the home too. For example, copper pans in the kitchen and pewter coloured walls in the dining room.”

Retailer Diane Harwood of Fab Fairy HQ in York has a different take. She said: ”I think gold, silver and sparkles will be the colour trends we will be

“Quirky fun sentiments such as ‘Dear Santa. Please leave presents for the kids, and take my husband!’ and ‘Believe in the Magic’ are making more of a statement this year.” are green and red. Father Christmas’s outfit used to be green until an advertising campaign by a certain soft drinks company in the 1930s was so successful that Santa has worn red ever since.

Will this year’s colour trends remain

“Glass candle holders and candles continue to be good gift lines not only for people to buy for themselves, but, as presents too.

“Christmas cushions are a fun way to brighten your home over the holidays, whilst of course, Fun Christmas jumpers are making very big in roads in to the total Christmas spend year on year.”

The last word goes to Sue Grant: “Commemorating a special Christmas such as Baby’s First Christmas is important as are the many Christmasthemed gifts that children love such as advent calendars, Christmas stockings, a cup and plate for Santa’s snack and fun snow globes with all the Christmas characters.”

So it would seem that we are in for a decorative, functional, glittery and cool yule to look forward to.

seeing at Christmas this year.”

Sue Grant of Widdop Bingham said: “Christmas is a very traditional occasion and not surprisingly colour trends follow along very similar lines.

However, there’s no holding back with Christmas colours and this is a

Some Christmas fun facts • George III’s German-born wife, Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, introduced a Christmas tree at a party she gave for children in 1800.

• The celebration of Christmas was banned on more than one occasion in Britain.

• Post – and therefore gifts – were delivered on Christmas Day in Britain until 1961.

• The first commercial Christmas card, produced by Sir Henry Cole, was introduced in London in 1843.

• The first Christmas Number 1 was not a festive song at all. It was Here In My Heart by Al Martino in 1952.

58 gifts today

time of the year when we can let our imaginations run wild. Red and green in various guises remain firm favourites and this colour combination is regularly updated to produce both traditional and contemporary gifts.”

And what about the Christmas gifts?

When it comes to buying presents are people happy with socks and smellies or do they want something decorative as well as functional?

It would appear that some people introduce humour into their presentgiving. Jo Marsden tells us: “Sentiment pictures and message boards are also a big winner this year. So not only is there the usual ‘Seasons Greetings’ or ‘Merry Christmas’ but also quirky fun sentiments such as ‘Dear Santa.

Please leave presents for the kids, and take my husband!’ and ‘Believe in the Magic’ are making more of a statement this year.

GiftScribes

Being able to personalise any one of the exclusive, design-led hanging decorations in the ‘Special Moments Christmas collection – at the point of sale – is what sets GiftScribes gifts apart. This transforms a thoughtful gift into a unique and special keepsake.

On offer is a large range of Christmas decorations including classic festive season designs for the many faces of a happy Santa, snowmen, reindeer, Santa’s sleigh and a stocking full of presents. In addition, seasonal sentiments for couples, families, friends and baby’s first Christmas are covered; as well as numerous humorous decorations! So many themes are featured that these gifts become highly collectible as families grow and other major events are celebrated throughout life.

Every product is made from high quality poly resin and each comes with a gift bag and a hanging ribbon.

Tel: 01584 811 190 Email: sales@giftscribes.co.uk Web: www.giftscribes.co.uk

Carrie Elspeth EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER JEWELLERY H A N D M A D E I N WA L E S

Gibsons

SSSS

There’s nothing quite like a good competitive game to bring the family together (or tear them apart!) once the Christmas dinner has been devoured. Manufacturing high quality games for almost a century, Gibsons really know their stuff about how to entertain both the young and old.

Pass the Pud will test player’s nerves to the limit as they press the button on the Pud to set off its menacing little jingle. The timer could go off at any point, so they’d better think of an answer quickly and Pass the Pud to the next player before time is up and the pudding lets off its dreaded ‘burp’! There are four different categories to choose from and each will have players scrambling for an answer as they try to recall obscure knowledge from the depths of their memories. How many songs contain the word baby anyway!?

Presented in a clear acetate box, this quirky product has strong shelf appeal and is a popular gift choice during the festive season. This product will be available for purchase in July.

SSummer um mmer C Collection ollection nnow ow aavailable. vaiilabble.

Pleasee call call for for our our latest lattesst full full colour coloour Please brochure oonn 001446 brochure 1446 7771271.

71271.

Follow us on CarrieElspethJewellery @carrieelspeth CarrieElspethJewellery www.carrieelspeth.com

Tel: 020 8661 8866 Web: www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Personalised Memento Company XXXX New to PMC are the Acrylic Decorations featuring subtle design elements fully personalised in a huge range of shapes. The new angel decoration is presented in a charming gift box and makes a perfect ‘in loving memory memento.

The decorations are available in heart, bauble, star and tree shapes perfect as Christmas Decorations.

Each gift is made to order and personalised at their Stoke-on-Trent premises.

The majority of PMC’s lines are personalised and despatched for next day delivery.

The established keepsake Christmas gift range includes wooden, slate and metal decorations, and the best-selling glass baubles.

Tel: 01782 744 900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Web: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Being able to personalise a Christmas hanging decoration transforms it from a lovely gift into a special keepsake and a collectible item. GiftScribes offer a large collection manufactured to a long-lasting high quality, with attention to detail and many unique designs.

Every decoration in the Special Moments Christmas range is easily personalisable at the point of sale and all product lines are available year round.

Proven demand t Good margins Small minimum orders t Personal service Christmas

by GiftScribes Gifts

www.giftscribes.co.uk

eMail: sales@giftscribes.co.uk Call: 01584 811 190 gifts today 59

Christmas Gifts

Carrie Elspeth

XXXX

These fresh additions to Carrie’s Sentiments collection are the perfect way to say a really heartfelt, special thank you at Christmas time to a friend or loved one, and to celebrate your treasured bond with them.

Each saying is designed to express your appreciation and love for that wonderful person in your life, and what better way than with these divine beaded bracelets with their adorable charm?

All of Carrie’s jewellery is still beautifully hand-made in Wales: support a genuine made-in-the-UK company and boost your sales with this stunning new collection.

Don’t forget to ask the friendly team about their fabulous packaging; branded display stands and unbelievable lead times… and watch this jewellery fly off your shelves.

Tel: 01446 771271 Web: www.carrieelspeth.com

Joe Davies

WWWW

Joe Davies, the Manchester based importer and distributor of the Shudehill Giftware Collection, reports brisk pre-sales of their Christmas range at the Spring Fair. Particularly strong sellers are these charming, hand-made, glass Christmas trees and tea light holders with colourful glass baubles. The tealights are beautifully complemented by the company’s best-selling glass trees and delightful glass angels in similar colours.

As with all from Joe Davies’s vast collection of exciting gifts the trees are easy to buy in sensible quantities using the company’s trademark Little & Often ordering system.

Nationwide Carriage paid orders are just £100.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Web: www.joedavies.co.uk

Shruti

XXXX

The Christmas gift range for 2015 is extensive for Shruti Designs and Junction 18, and the products have never been stronger. The company launched its exciting collections in January with an inspired array of home decorations and gift ideas in a series of new product stories.

Stand out gifts must include Shruti’s wooden games collection; made of solid wood with brass detail and individually packaged, represent great value and make fantastic gifts for men – a category which is always in demand. Games include chess/backgammon, cribbage, dominoes, bridge, bar skittles, solitaire and noughts and crosses to name a few.

Baby’s First Christmas collection has proved to be another winning range from its launch. Soft felt hand stitched tree decorations, stockings, a nativity scene and woodland animals, make lovely gifts for proud new parents. As well as a beautiful 100% soft cotton blanket designed with those very words.

Finally, every dog has its day and Shruti are delighted to be distributing the Victoria Armstrong collection of canine ceramics. Elegant, monochrome silhouette designs of dogs in a variety of breeds is sure to delight any dog lover this Christmas.

Tel: 0 1985 847774 Email: hello@shrutidesigns.co.uk 60 gifts today

Spring Fair Review

Spring Fair 2015 heralded a success Once again Spring Fair provided a strong transactional platform for the market that will see an estimated £3.6 billion worth of orders placed as a direct result of participation at the show.

S

enior buyers from leading independents and multiples such as Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Liberty, Fortnum & Mason, Fenwick, John Lewis, Heal’s, Oliver Bonas, Ocado, Steamer Trading Cook Shop, Toys R Us and Temptation Gifts alongside 63,225 other unique industry professionals were in attendance at this year’s event, all representing quality and buying power to 3,000 Spring Fair exhibitors across 14 different market sectors.

The Gift area of the show in Hall 5 was exceptionally busy, with companies such as Xytos experiencing a very high influx of visitors to their stand. Tom Sykes, general manager of Xystos, said: “By the close of the 2015 show on the Monday, we had already achieved the order figures of last year’s Spring Fair.

I am very pleased. Everyone at the show seemed to be extremely upbeat about 2015.”

More closely aligned with gifts than ever before was the rebranded Table & Kitchen sector, which for 2015 had a new home in Hall 9, a strategic move that saw this crucial part of the show flanked by The Summerhouse in Hall 8, Gift in Hall 5, and Gift, Home & Volume in Halls 10, 11 and 12. The move was well received with Matthew Canwell, Director of Buying, Lakeland commenting, “I was truly impressed by the changes at Spring Fair this year.

The move to hall 9 has given the show new impetus and there was a real wow factor as you walked in. And the product offer didn’t disappoint either.

Welcome back Spring Fair as a serious destination for kitchenware.”

Further development is underway for Table and Kitchen 2016 following exhibitor feedback on how to attract a larger proportion of Spring Fair’s huge contingent of gift retailers.

We spoke to a number of exhibitors during the show to find out their thoughts. Here’s what they had to say.

2015 show facts: • 63,225 visitors

“It’s the start of spring for us, a springboard to the new year. We are fortunate to live and work close to the NEC. We’ve been exhibiting since 1976 so it does something right, and we have Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen (right) continuing his relationship with us.”

Julian Price, Arthur Price

“This year’s show has been very good. Sunday was very busy. We are pleased so many suppliers have made the effort to seek us out. Their response has been very positive to new ranges.

There has been a great interest in our spring, summer and autumn ranges. The key new range is Creations to make your own scent which appeal to many new retailers looking for something new and original.”

John Barthorpe, Bolsius

• In excess of 3,000 exhibitors • Represents 14 different market sectors • Estimated £3.6 billion worth of orders placed • Home to Gift of the Year Awards

2016 Show dates: Sunday 31 January – Thursday 4 February 2016 www.springfair.com

“A good show; it was busy. We have had returning customers – people learning the error of their ways and coming back after two years.”

Jules, Wild Things gifts today 61

Spring Fair Review

“We are regulars but have found the Guess How Much I Love You range has brought people to the stand like never before.

The show has been everything we expected – an outstanding event.”

“This year’s Spring Fair was our best for more than a decade. We had a great number of new customers, as well as attracting many past customers and regulars.

We also have made more contacts than any show ever. It was an extremely successful show and sets us up well for the coming season.”

“The show is slower this year than last but is always a good show for us. There are not too many shows for online retailers. We always have people on our stand and it’s a good opportunity to showcase our lines.

We have a niche in personalised books.”

Tracey Cooper, Neviti

David Gee, Musical Gifts

Kevin Spindler, Signature Gifts

“It was pretty busy. People came to look and then ordered online. Sunday used to be the most busy day but that’s not the case so much now. We have had lots of people but fewer huge orders.”

Sam Brummitt, Navmastre

“The show has been a success for us this year. Sales are doing well which is unexpected because of the recession.”

Lolita, Gaeltag

“It’s been splendid. We have met customers old and new – it’s been a great mix. Customers viewed our brand new products and we have had new leads focusing on our established ranges.”

“It’s a well organised and very good show. We have had lots of customers and good orders and I’m sure it will be even better next year.”

Nick Morley, CID

John Athwal, Premier Decorations

“Spring Fair is always good for us. We did some sampling – giving people free chocolate and the results were eggsellent.”

“It’s been successful. We have met some interesting people. It was a great opportunity to meet new customers and let people view our new products.”

Han van Reen, Thorntons

Fiona Clark, Red Herring

“It’s been great. We had a good time, stronger than expected. Lots of customers used to come and see us at the end of the day and now they come to see us first. We got a lot of orders.”

“Lots of work goes into Spring Fair but what really makes it so successful is the effort put in by retailers who take the time to come and attend the show. Without them there would be no Spring Fair. And we really appreciate those efforts.”

Dan Smith and Mal Pashley, Camal

Paul Hooker, Joe Davies

62 gifts today

“We were delighted to be back at Spring Fair again in what is a landmark 185th year for us. It was really great to see old and new customers turning out and making a big effort to come and see us. A big thank you to all of them.”

Laurence Whiting, Price’s Patent Candles

Coffee Break “Spring Fair will always be one of the most important buying events of the year.

Throughout the week the stand remained busy and we’ve met a wide variety of buyers of UK and international and small to large businesses. Launching product that has something innovative to offer is always a winner at the show and is something that we always strive for. Yet this year we’ve been overwhelmed by the amazing response to our new Amora ultrasonic diffusers in particular, which has been really drawing the crowds.

Overall the show has been fantastic for us and has got our year off to a great start.”

Deborah Bettinson, Ashleigh & Burwood

“It was a good show for us. Footfall is noticeably down, however our order book is up 60 per cent on last year, which speaks for itself. I’m very pleased about that. Most orders have come from existing customers. I’m looking forward to the intended move to Hall 5. We have had a great response to new products especially the Peppa Pig nursery and baby range.”

Anthony Tremble, Rainbow Designs

“The show this year has been a real buzz. As a company we have been very impressed by the footfall coming onto our stand especially their interest in our new launch Colonial Candle. We launched 3,800 products this show across three different stands and so this is a crucial event to kick start our year.”

Stephen Illingworth, Widdop Bingham “This year we’ve really brought innovation to the industry and the results at the show have been fantastic. We’re thrilled our pioneering innovation, Scenterpiece, has proved to be a show stopper and the reception to revealing four seasons of inventive home fragrance at one show has been phenomenal.”

Hannah Jenkins, Yankee Candle (International)

We caught up with Simon Morton and Kay Griffith at Ronin during Spring Fair to find out a little more about this innovative Jewellery company.

What’s the inspiration behind your ranges?

We work with semi-precious gemstones so our inspiration is the gemstones.

Where are the products made?

We make them in our studio in GwaunCae-Gurwen in South Wales near the Brecon Beacons.

What support do you give your retailers?

We make sure our products are very well packaged because we feel that helps sell the products. They come with information on the gemstone so the shop assistant doesn’t need to know what things are. We do POS material.

Gemstones are actually amazing things, formed often over millions of years, deep in the Earth, so we like to tell people about them and also the beliefs in their powers, developed from people wearing and valuing them over thousands of years. We attach tags to the jewellery to tell people about the gemstones in each piece. Along with our lovely gift boxes, we feel this is a strong selling point.

How important are trade shows to you?

Very important. That and advertising are the only ways we come into contact with our customers and put our stuff out there for people to see.

Anything exciting on the horizon?

We are always thinking about new things we can do. We want to develop things we can do with gemstones but we are thinking about possibly creating a more expensive range using higher quality stones than we do at the moment.

Is there an average price?

We work within an average price range so everything we bring out is within that range. Our prices range from £4.50 to £11.95.

How do you keep up with consumer trends?

That’s very much down to Kay keeping an eye on current fashions. She has set colourways and the other beads fall into place for the new season. We often receive compliments on our colour combinations, but colour ways come

about quite instinctively. We feel we now know the colours that a Ronin customer will feel comfortable wearing, and we bear this in mind whatever the colour trends forecasters may be pushing.

We will spend time between designing new ranges gathering images of colour combinations we love. Pinterest is a wonderful tool for this, and we now use it a lot.

Do people have a favourite colour that they want you to use?

Not really, it’s fairly instinctive. We usually get complimented on our colourways.

I studied textile design and I think choosing the colours come from that.

We won’t necessarily work on fashion trends because we feel that some of our customers won’t necessarily want certain colour combinations. So if yellow and orange are on trend, we wouldn’t follow that because our customers don’t want that.

Who is your stereotypical end consumer?

It tends to the middle-aged or older lady.

With some of our more recent ranges we have tended to be hitting a younger market as well. Our staff are now wanting to buy our jewellery whereas before it tended to be too old for them. They used to buy it for their grandmothers now they are buying it for themselves so we have a good age range.

What materials do you use?

Semi-precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, and glass mixed in as well. All the findings are hypoallergenic. We are pleased we are able to make all our stuff in the UK, that’s important to us.

We also make sure we pay our staff the living wage for the UK, not just for Wales, which is lower, but for the whole country.

We don’t use outworkers or people from working from home. We employ people properly.

Our plans for 2015 are to continue developing our range of jewellery and building up our loyal following. We will be showing new ranges at Home & Gift, Harrogate and also the Autumn Fair, NEC.

gifts today 63

Grass Roots Claire Durham

Vanessa Fenton,

Beyondagift, Beauchamp, Leicester

Beat the High Street, Sutton Coldfield

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

It gives us ideas for spring and Christmas. We can look at new ranges so it’s very important. We want to see what’s out there.

How many days do you attend?

Just one.

What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

Aprons. We saw one stall with a lady with very different aprons – Pinny Pockets.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

There are a lot the same. There’s still a lot of shabby chic out there and a lot pastels. I’m looking for something that’s not on the high street.

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

It is important because I like to come and look for something different.

How many days do you attend?

Just the one. I live locally so if I need to come back I would but I generally just go to the halls that I’m interested in.

What category interests you?

I’m here primarily to look at jewellery.

But I also intend to have a look at the gifts just in case there is something that catches my eye but that will make my fortune.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

Leather jewellery. It’s leather jewellery with a difference, however. It has nice sparkly diamante things on and at a reasonable price rather than just a piece of leather strap. That’s gone really well.

For my business I like to offer different things rather than just the things you can get off the high street. I am here to see if I can find something different to introduce new lines.

Lisa Forde

Nosa Talabi

Tree of Hearts

Leez World Enterprises, Lagos

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

We haven’t been for a few years but we thought it would be useful to come just to see what’s out there. Sometimes you can look online but you can’t necessarily find everything online. Coming here means you can see the quality and the people behind the products as well. So yes it is important.

How many days do you attend?

One. What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

We have been looking at some packaging companies just to revamp the way we do packaging.

We are also looking for new suppliers.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

Not really any different to what we have seen.

64 gifts today

This issue we caught up with a selection of retailers during Spring Fair

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

It’s very important. That’s where I meet most of my suppliers.

How many days do you attend?

I come in on the first day and I don’t leave until the last day.

What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

Household products and giftware.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

I think different countries have different trends.

Many of the Britishbased companies have predominantly white products, which would not go down well in my country. Africa is very dusty so we wouldn’t buy anything that is white or off-white. We would gravitate towards the darker colours.

Samantha McKay

Emily Goodhall

Lincoln Minster Shop, Lincoln Cathedral

L.R. Godfrey, Lowestoft

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

Spring Fair is important. It gives us an idea of new trends. Different ideas that people are doming up with and it gives us a chance to see the product and touch it rather than just look at a photograph in a catalogue.

How many days do you attend?

One. What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

Pictures and new cards. We are looking for something different that not everyone else has got. We are seeing a lot of repetition, a lot of the old shabby chic stuff.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

At the moment it’s still the shabby chic, a lot of candles and a lot of scented items.

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

Massively, We come here to look at all different suppliers. We purposely write down everything that we need and look at different stalls. Because we are an independent department store it’s important to look at new trends.

How many days do you attend?

We attend for three.

What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

Yes we have just been to a stand called Wilcom – they have lots of beautiful pastel colours, which to us say spring and summer. That’s what we have come here for. There are gardening bits and pieces, candles and giftware.

Wilcom is an amazing company – they are Swedish – and we wouldn’t have see them if we weren’t here.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

Pastel colours. A lot of vintage – crockery, giftware. We have a massive Christmas department as well so vintage festive gifts as well are a definite trend.

Philip Watler and Diane Harwood Fab Fairy HQ, York How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

Really important.

It’s where we come to find new lines for the rest of the year.

How many days do you attend?

Three.

What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

We have seen some retrotype gifts, 3D pictures, soft toys, hobbits, figurines, gothic jewellery and a whole range of different things. We have all seen a lot of other terrific things that are really interesting but they are not for us. We have also seen some great items that we will order towards the back end of the year but we are not ready yet, some great Christmas lines.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

Not so much. Shabby chic is still there. I (Philip) think spotting a new trend is quite difficult. Someone here will have the next big thing but until it happened we won’t know what it is. I (Diane) thought Frozen had died the death but it still seems to be hanging on.

Meriel Evans and Catherine Bletcher Gore Glass. Conwy

How important is Spring Fair to you and why?

It’s our first time. We have just graduated so we are looking for business ideas.

We have looked online but we feel it is important to make contacts personally.

We have been speaking to a lot of suppliers who are really interested in talking to us.

How many days do you attend for?

Just one but next year we might have to come for two.

What have you seen of interest or what category interests you?

We do rural events and country things so some of the children’s items like tractors.

Have you noticed any trends emerging?

There are a lot of novelty gifts that seem to be doing very well.

gifts today 65

Collectable Gifts

Carry on collecting Not just for children, collectables are big business

I

t’s a hobby that often begins in childhood with collecting stickers of football players and for many it is an attraction that remains into adulthood.

Collecting is a serious business with many collecting themes while others find a wide range of items that take their fancy. We chatted to a number of people for whom collectables are more than just a corner of an unrevisited childhood.

Ken Johnson, the managing director of Enesco, said: “We had a very strong start to 2015 with great demand for

their own. Ken Johnson mentioned the Man of Steel: “Spider-Man, one of our Marvel Heroes, was launched at Spring Fair and again demand is very strong.”

Debbie Waters is company secretary and projects director at Arora Designs.

She said: “Although collectables have seen a decline from the heydays of years gone by, there are still positive indicators that certain ranges out there in the market place continue to have a strong following of collectors.”

We tend to assume that collectors are restricted to the more obvious stamps, autographs, coins and film

“Although collectables have seen a decline from the heydays of years gone by, there are still positive indicators that certain ranges out there in the market place continue to have a strong following of collectors.” their collectable ranges in particular the new Disney A Moment In Time collection which is entirely handmade in Langholm, southwest Scotland.

These hand-painted short limited edition figurines are becoming a big hit not only in the UK but also in Belgium and Holland.”

It would seem that whenever a successful franchise is launched then the collectables follow, with anthropomorphism especially popular.

“Enesco has a collection of figurines inspired by Disney’s Frozen film and it is proving very difficult to meet the demand for these products with total sell-out as each new container arrives,” said Ken. “Retailers find that by offering a wide selection of Enesco collectables on a year round basis then consumers will return for more regular purchasing.”

However, the superheroes are holding 66 gifts today

and television ephemera but as Debbie Waters points out: “Trinket boxes still appear to have their place in collectors’ hearts and by popular request Arora Design are introducing a new range inspired by the phenomenally popular Hidden Treasures. Many of our retailers and previous collectors have missed this beautiful range and are keen to get on board with the new one Secrets.

“By working with our retailers to stock the whole collection and encouraging collectors to form relationships with their local shops, we can hopefully inspire the pattern of regular purchasing from both the retailer with us and the collectors from their chosen stockist. Supporting our retailers with striking point of sale that conveys the collectible message is also important, giving them the opportunity to promote discussion with consumers about what else is available in the range.”

Enesco

SSSS

Loved by town and country folk alike for more than forty years, Border Fine Arts Classic figurines represent all aspects of country life, from nostalgic farming scenes to magnificent wildlife studies — as these two new figurines selected from the January 2015 launch demonstrate.

Red Alert, a spectacular study of a red kite, celebrates the successful resurgence of this beautiful bird in recent years after being persecuted and killed to extinction in both England and Scotland during the eighteenth century. While Winter Wheat, depicts another job on the farm that is made easier with the use of a tractor — this time it’s sowing the ‘winter wheat’.

Border Fine Arts Classic figurines are entirely hand crafted to exacting standards at their studio in the Scottish Borders. Attention to detail is very important to them and they are sure these new pieces will not disappoint.

Every piece is presented on a high quality wooden plinth for a perfect finish.

Many are limited editions, and a special painting service is also available — allowing collectors to create their own totally unique figurines of lasting precious memories of special moments in their lives.

Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Web: www.enesco.co.uk

Interesting Facts • The first price guide for collectables was the Stanley Gibbons catalogue issued in November 1865.

• The term antique usually refers to items made more than 100 years ago.

• The Epherema Society was founded in 1975 for collectors of collections often ignored by museums and galleries.

• Zero Freitas owns probably the world’s biggest private record collection – at more than 5 million pieces of vinyl. He pays for them with the fortune he made running a bus company in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

• Mexican lawyer Asher Silva Vargas owns a record-breaking 3,000 pieces of Harry Potter memorabilia

“Secrets�

Dora Designs

SSSS

Dora Designs ever popular Country Folk Range continues to flourish. This year the range has welcomed Penny Pony and Danny Brocklehurst Badger. Dora Mouse is one of our original characters and has never had a companion, but this year we thought it was about time she did. Welcome Duncan Mouse, partner to Dora Mouse, into our charming Country Folk Range.

Dora Designs will be attending Harrogate Home & Gift, 19th-22nd July and will be located in DP2-18.

from Hidden Treasures a fabulous new range of innovative trinket boxes with pendants hidden away inside.

Tel: 01733 305452 Email: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk Web: www.doradesigns.co.uk

Robert Harrop Designs

TTTT

Robert Harrop Designs invite you to be part of their history with the introduction of the very first pieces to be released into their new Doctor Who range of figurines!

They have been creating collectable hand painted figurines for over 30 years and have gained a well earned reputation of high quality and accuracy of detail. Their extensive portfolio includes Thunderbirds, Camberwick Green, Beano Dandy and 2000AD to name but a few. A portfolio that is extremely nostalgic and very British, so it was no surprise that Doctor Who would be the next project that we wanted to embrace into our studios!

In partnership with the BBC, they have meticulously hand sculpted a range of 1:12 scale, hand cast and hand painted figurines, each made to strict Worldwide Limited Editions.

As a mark of provenance, each Limited Edition figurine will be numbered with a unique Edition Number and will come packaged in a presentation box with an Information Card and Certificate of Authenticity!

Tel: 01952 884804 Email: sales@ robertharrop. com

e: sales@arora-design.co.uk w: www.arora-design.co.uk WORCESTER, ENGLAND T: +44 (0)1386 861666 gifts today 67

Collectable Gifts

Classic Canes XXXX Charlotte Gillan, managing partner at walking stick specialists Classic Canes, notes that many walking sticks are bought for and by collectors.

“Lots of people inherit a grandparent’s collection of sticks, display them in their hallway and soon find that they have become walking stick collectors, or ambulists.

Antique sticks are usually bowed, damaged or too short for people today, so our formal and collector’s canes are very popular.

Some have chrome plated or resin handles and retail for under £50; others are heirloom quality ebony and silver canes, often featuring animal’s heads. In Victorian and Edwardian times, no gentleman would be properly dressed without an appropriate cane. It is lovely that there is now a resurgence of interest in canes as formal accessories and collector’s items.”

Tel: 01460 75686 Email: charlotte@classiccanes.co.uk Web: www.classicanes.co.uk

Arora Design SSSS Secrets from Hidden Treasures is Arora Design’s new range of trinket boxes with beautiful pendants hidden away inside. Cleverly designed to conceal the openings, each box is gold or silver plated dependant on its decoration, hand painted with vibrant coloured enamels, and encrusted with hand applied Austrian crystals to create the ornate finish. The opening range includes eighteen pieces featuring several British birds, such as a Robin, a Blue Tit, a Kestrel, a Kingfisher, a Mallard, a Tawny Owl, a Barn Owl, a Wren, a Peacock and a Swan, wildlife favourites such as a Baby Elephant, Panda, Dolphin, Frog and Field Mouse and other birds which include a Penguin and Puffin.

All fabulously sculpted and beautifully presented in luxurious silk lined boxes they are the perfect gift or self-purchase for collectors. RRP is £27.50

Tel: 01386 861666 Email: sales@arora-design.co.uk Web: www.arora-design.co.uk 68 gifts today

Enesco - Lilliput Lane

SSSS

Handmade and hand painted in Great Britain, if there’s one thing that Lilliput Lane proves year on year, it’s that it has every gift occasion well wrapped up.

There are two lovely new cottages — Lucky in Love and No Place Like Mum’s. Lucky in Love features two border collies and one has a rose in his mouth. Whilst No Place Like Mum’s is a pretty thatched cottage in Little Hadham with a lovely garden full to overflowing with colourful flowers, which is obviously mum’s pride and joy.

Looking for a birthday present? Then look no further than Birthday Cake, a cottage from Hemingford Abbots that was chosen for this delightful model as it is roughly shaped like a slice of birthday cake when viewed from above. And finally, for all those countryside pursuits lovers, there’s The Brace, a former gamekeeper’s cottage built for the Burderop Estate.

And, remember, every Lilliput Lane Cottage comes in attractive gift packaging.

Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Web: www.enesco.co.uk

New Products New Thai Incense Collection

In home messaging

The Apothecary Range from Manchester-based Importer Joe Davies has been a huge success and the company has introduced lots of exciting new lines for 2015. The collection takes the trend in home messaging to a new level, incorporating homely sentiment sayings across apothecary shaped vases, water jugs, regular vases and tea light holders.

With a fantastic crackle glaze and beautiful washed out colours the range sits beautifully with shabby chic home offers. Each sentiment is modelled in clay with raised lettering before being fired and glazed; the range is proving to be one of the hottest collections of the season.

All items are available Little & Often along with the company’s other 8000 gifting lines. Minimum order is just £100 with FREE carriage nationwide.

These incense and mini candle gift sets are made for Namaste in Northern Thailand on a fair trade basis. Their supplier is a relatively large incense producer with an enthusiastic and happy workforce who enjoy excellent working conditions and benefits. Some of the component items are made by artisans in their own homes and then assembled into sets by permanent employees. The ability to be able to work from home is vital, enabling women to combine work with family life and be able to contribute to the household income.

The range is extensive and includes a lovely wooden elephant carved tea light holder complete with tea light, incense gift sets in natural wooden trays with incense sticks, holders and candles. There is also three new flower shaped candles in tea light holders including frangipani flower, rose and a delightful daisy. These are additions to their already best-selling range which includes mini animal and heart candles.

Namaste is a fair trade importer recognised by BAFTS (British Association for Fair Trade Shops & Suppliers.) Contact their friendly team for free full colour catalogues and details of their generous discount structure.

Tel: 01756-700790

Tel: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Web: www.namaste-uk.com

Web: www.joedavies.co.uk

Clear lighting

High Soziety

The PHILIPPI Clear garden light is a stylish and sophisticated addition to any border, plant pot or patio. The Clear takes a standard tea-light and is available in frosted or clear glass. The design is simple yet ingenious; the pointed aluminium rod means you can pitch the 40cm high Clear virtually anywhere; indoors or outdoors. The rod can also be removed transforming the Clear into an elegant table decoration and with an adjustable tea-light position within the glass tube the effect can be quite magical.

This contemporary lifestyle accessory is perfect for creating an intimate and atmospheric setting whether for romantic dining or relaxing outdoors on balmy summer evenings.

Heart of the Country Ltd will be launching Votivo’s Soziety Collection at Pulse. Since its inception in 1994, Votivo has built a reputation for its quality fragrances and distinctive packaging. Each Votivo product is a culmination of care and commitment to detail.

Each candle is handwrapped and each seal is hand-pressed making each product special. At the heart of every Votivo candle is a unique fragrance meticulously formulated and layered to reflect depth, richness, and complexity. As one of the very first American made luxury candle lines, Votivo passionately pursues excellence in the art of candle making.

Votivo’s Soziety Collection captures the picture-perfect moments where the essence of all you aspire to be suddenly appears in the palm of your hand. Soziety’s shimmering surface reflects that which is utterly gorgeous, truly remarkable, and even a bit outrageous.

Tel: 01789 262900

Tel: 01543 481612

Web: www.sololtd.com

Web: www.HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk gifts today 69

New Products Quintessentially British

alovestory — Celebrating Life’s Moments

Contemporary appeal, elegant design and pure unadulterated romance — each exquisite piece in the alovestory collection is the perfect way to celebrate your love story.

Love, whether it’s a first kiss, St Valentine’s Day, a wedding, or an anniversary, is always to be celebrated and what better way is there to celebrate than with a glass of bubbly or lovely bunch of flowers? Such special occasions demand an extra special glass or vase and this collection offers the perfect choice!

Each item in the range features a beautiful dark blue and metallic gold heart motif which is very intricate and delicate, whilst on the reverse a word spells out the occasion — ‘Love’, ‘Bride’, ‘Groom’, ‘Bridesmaid’, ‘Always’, ‘Forever’, or a simple heart motif — making them an ideal keepsake too.

Champagne flutes are sold in sets of two (‘Love’, ‘Bride & Groom’ and ‘Always & Forever’), as is the ‘Love’ wine glasses set, whilst other wine glasses are sold singularly (‘Bridesmaid’ and ‘Bride’), as are the photo frame and vase. All glass items are finished with a gold rim and come with their own beautiful branded box packaging.

Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Web: www.enesco.co.uk

HearthWick’s repeat business

Retailers are placing repeat orders for the HearthWick range, which has been flying off the shelves. It was a best seller for Xystos at Spring Fair where the stylish vessels, stunning fragrances, different coloured waxes and unique wicks made it a firm favourite with buyers. Twelve new scents have been added, including Fireside (pictured), Baby Powder, Island Coconut, Jasmina, Dew Drops and Marionberry.

Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk Web: www.xystostrade. co.uk 70 gifts today

Dew, the essential everyday sterling silver jewellery collection from the team at Kit Heath.

The Spring collection introduces British themes, cute motifs and quirky profiles. Like afternoon tea, love your home tweet home or you think someone is bloomin’ marvellous? Dew has the perfect motif design making the perfect gift for everyone. Other designs for the season include stone of the moment synthetic opal in new and most popular designs. A must have collection of beautiful contemporary designs at affordable prices.

Last year Kit Heath launched a trade website to enhance the ease of ordering and product information. New designs available now. Kit Heath continue to strive to offer their retailers the best sterling silver designs at the best prices.

New Dew season designs from £9.50 rrp Tel: 01271 329123 Email: sales@kitheath.com Web: www.kitheathretailer.com

No room for confusion

4sided.co.uk have taken time to get feedback from their stockists and with this knowledge they have made improvements to their packaging and displaying issues.

They have designed a larger, circular sticker, that in addition to the original individual card image, it now displays the words ‹4 Sided Greeting Cards Write, Peel, Stick›, so there is no confusion as to what the product is and how to use it.

Also, a bespoke, counter-top spinner has been created by Wire Fittings, that will allow a retailer without much space to stock their cards. It has sixteen pockets, four each side which fit twelve cards in each. The spinner has an additional feature enabling you to display an assembled card on the top.

The spinner can be yours for free on orders over £150.

Free card display samples are always available.

Visit them at Pulse, Stand: K83 Tel: 07803501983 Email: Joandchris@4sided.co.uk Web: Www.4sided.co.uk

New Products With Love collection announced by Neviti With Love is the beautiful new wedding collection from Neviti offering a wonderful selection of table accessories and decorations perfect for your special day. This new range features subtle pastel shades and stunning wedding motifs of delicate love hearts, fluttering butterflies, tranquil doves and bouquets of flowers, perfect for adding a romantic flourish to wedding your décor. Some gorgeous items within the collection includes sweetie bags, cake boxes and cute favour bags perfect for creating thoughtful gifts for your wedding guests and a wide selection of decorative bunting including a floral design, candy buffet bunting, Mr & Mrs chair bunting and mini Just Married bunting. Another exquisite item within this collection is the delicate laser cut place cards for glass, available in ivory and baby pink they offer a pretty alternative to standard place cards. Adding some interest to your welcome drinks is easy with the beautiful candy stripe straws and co-ordinating straw flags, with a variety of celebratory messages such as ‘Joy’, ‘Happiness’ and ‘Laughter’. A wedding wouldn’t be the same without confetti and the With Love collection offers a gorgeous variety containing a mix of heart and butterfly motifs which is bio-degradable and perfect for filling the co-ordinating floral confetti cones. If you’re looking for something a bit different the range’s wedding wishes post box with matching cards is the perfect way for guests to leave messages and well wishes, creating a unique and personal gift to keep for years to come.

Tel: 0845 638 1358 Web: www.neviti.com

Funky new Block Light from IF

Proof, if it were ever needed, that building bricks are not just for kids.

Now you can enjoy reading in the dark without disturbing anyone else. Simply clip onto your book, position the adjustable neck to the best position and read on in style.

The Block Light is available in six cool colours and is supplied with batteries fitted.

Farm Friends & Woody Owl

Farm Friends, Joe Davies’ brand new collection of wooden sentiment plaques, boxes and tea lights has been more than well received. The range features an incredibly cute Cow and Sheep design and a craft finish – add to this a great selection of humorous and sentiment sayings with prices to hit impulse retail price points and you have a very commercial line.

Following in the same vein is the Woody Owl Collection; with its butterscotch and white finish the range sits perfectly with any décor. Both ranges are available Little & Often along with the Company’s other 8000 gifting lines.

Minimum order is just £100 with FREE carriage nationwide.

For more details contact Joe Davies on 0161 975 6300, email sales@ joedavies.co.uk or visit www.joedavies.co.uk

Stylish Zen Spa

Because candles are now a bathroom favourite, Xystos has responded by adding the stylish Sienna Gold Zen Spa home lighter to its portfolio. With an RRP of £29.99, it is available in four colours – blue, purple, green and yellow.

Says Xystos general manager Tom Sykes: “For 130 years, people have been lighting candles with matches. This has meant burnt fingers, dripping wax and broken matches. Our partnership with Sienna Gold puts an end to that pain and frustration.”

Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk Web: www.xystostrade. co.uk

Tel: 01751 475757 Email: new@thatcompanycalledif.com Web: www.thatcompanycalledif.com gifts today 71