Gifts Today February 2019

Supporting your industry for 29 years Month: February 2019 Issue: 4 Volume: 30

NATURE’S GIFT Nature’s Gift candles and reed diffusers bring together beautiful fragrances made with essential oils and natural botanical pieces.

Fragrances include Geranium Rosa | Red Rose | Coastal Flowers Ocean | Pink Pepper Flowers | English Country Garden | Apple Blossom.

Find Us

Spring Fair – 3-7 February – Hall 8 A15

SS19 Advert 240 x 315-V1-Natures Gift.indd 2

09/01/2019 15:05

Contents

Regulars 10 14 16 18

February 2019

News GA News Exhibition News Licensing News

Cover story 24 Price’s Candles

p 19

The iconic candle company will be extending their fabulous Fragrance Collection at Spring Fair this year

Retail 50 V&A Lauren Sizeland, head of licensing & business development at the Museum, tells us about the giftware collaborations they have planned for 2019

82 Trade Talk Spring Fair, trends and new launches – it’s all up for discussion with some leading gift companies this month

p 50

96 Happy birthday, Joe Davies!

Discover the fascinating story behind one of the biggest names in the gift industry

Gifts Today team

Special Features

Editor

20 Q&A with Julie Driscoll

Sally Norton sally@lemapublishing.co.uk

The new MD of Spring Fair tells us what we can expect from this year’s show

Advertisement Manager Mark Horsnell markh@lemapublishing.co.uk

p 38

38 Living Coral Pantone’s Colour of the Year is Living Coral.

We take a look at the wide range of gifts that have taken inspiration from this ‘energising and nourishing’ shade

Layout/Design Rick Vickers rickv@lemapublishing.co.uk

86 Portmeirion Group

Publisher

Phil Atherton, group sales & marketing director, tells us about the company’s new launches for the show

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

p 96

108 Toys at Spring Fair We take a closer look at this great category at the show.

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Opinion 60 Ross Hewitt’s social media 98 The Insights People 127 Julie Dodsworth

Special Preview 19 Lema Publishing Ltd

PUBLISHING

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930

Spring Fair As thousands of exhibitors, retailers, buyers and manufacturers head to the NEC in February, we take a comprehensive look at the show.

122 New products

- The UK’s leading supplier of Personalised Gifts for 15 years -

NEW

Give a little bit of love 0Xź\ 0H this 4 R " 3(5621$/,6(' 5$1*(

THE ONE STOP SHOP FOR PERSONALISED GIFTS - For Him - For Her - For Children - For The Home - For All Occasions -

0Xź\ 0H

NEW

3(5621$/,6(' 5$1*(

7KH SHUIHFW JLIW IRU D ZRQGHUIXO PXP LGHDO IRU 0RWKHUŪV 'D\ NEW

NEW

NEW

NEW NEW

W E D D I N G G I F TS

J E W E LLE RY

GIFTS FO R T H E H O M E

VISIT US AT SPRING FAIR HALL 4 E90-F91 www.personalisedmemento.co.uk I sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

PE T GI F TS

Message from the Editor www.gifts-today.co.uk Instagram: @giftstodaysally

p24

By the way, it really is worth heading to the show on the Sunday as the Gift of the Year awards will take place in the evening, and everyone’s invited.

As one of the judges again, I can assure you there are some great companies and products in the final line-up and I’m really looking forward to discovering who scoops the big prize! You can read more about the finalists on page 14.

Our cover stars Price’s Candles will be at the show and I heartily recommend a visit to their stand. They’re a company with such an incredible heritage – producing candles way back in 1830 and holding a Royal Warrant for Her Majesty the Queen – but they’re incredibly forward looking, too. They watch trends and listen to their customers and will be extending their fabulous

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

Fragrance p96 Collection at the show.

Read more about them on page 24.

One of the great things about Spring Fair is that you come away with a great idea of what’s going to be on trend this coming year.

Now of course, the new Colour of the Year – Living Coral – is a great place to start. This colour is described as ‘a shade that affirms life’, and it’s already popping up everywhere on all sorts of gifts. You can discover more on page 38. When it comes to other trends, we help you get ahead of the game by asking some movers and shakers in the gift industry for their predictions and you can read more in our three-page Trade Talk special that starts on page 82.

Of course, one trend that’s huge is the licensed gifts category. And it was with this in mind that I spoke to Lauren Sizeland, head of licensing & business development at the V&A, about the Museum’s increased moves in licensing.

Such a fascinating story and you can read more on page 50.

In addition, this issue is packed with new product from the leading gift companies. We give you a sneak peek of some of the best new products being launched at the show, so pop the kettle on, put your feet up and have a peruse ahead of the show.

Before I sign off, I also wanted to say a very happy birthday to the brilliant team at Joe Davies – a real stalwart of the gift industry – who are celebrating their 100th birthday this year. Do pop along to their stand to wish them happy birthday – they’re such a friendly, professional team and have so many great products to introduce this year. You

“

One of the great things about Spring Fair is that you come away with a great idea of what’s going to be on trend

“

I

t’s here – our Spring Fair special! With Christmas and New Year sales behind us, it’s time to dive headlong into buying season. And, if you’re planning on doing some serious buying, this is the show to do it. Birmingham’s NEC will be jam-packed with the newest and the best offerings in the gift industry.

Whether you’re looking for must-have bamboo cups, Frida Kahlo merchandise or home fragrance that makes a design statement you’ll find it all here, and lots more besides.

This will be my third Spring Fair as editor of Gifts Today – and my ad manager Mark Horsnell’s 13th! - and we can’t wait to see what’s new out there and catch up with friends old and new.

We’ll be there for the whole show and I already know that when Thursday afternoon rolls round we’ll agree, as usual, that we didn’t manage to see everything we’d planned to. I’ve already got my diary at the ready to help me be as efficient as possible this year!

p86

can read a little about the company’s incredible history on page 96.

Have a great month

p48

3-7 FEBRUARY 2019 Hall 5, Stand D50/E51

Equilibrium® Eternal Flowers

Equilibrium® Scarves

Provence Cool Grey

Leonardo Bamboo Eco Mugs

David’s Spotty Ducks

16 Times Winners of the PG Greats Awards

Gold Award Winner 2018

BEST SERVICE TO THE INDEPENDENT RETAILER

OPEN YOUR ON-LINE ACCOUNT TODAY AT

www.joedavies.co.uk Specs Appeal Wobble Heads

Sunny by Sue New Gin Glasses

Joe Davies 149 Broadstone Rd, Reddish, Stockport SK5 7GA

Tel: 0161 975 6300 email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk *LIW 7RGD\ GSV 6SULQJ )DLU -DQ )HE LQGG

ANNIVERSARY Modern Mount Wedding Frames

Floral Wreath Sentiment

Sunny by Sue Water Bottles

EquilibriumÂŽ Crystal Collection

Nellie Ellie

EquilibriumÂŽ Fashion Bags

Funny Bone Skeletons

Are you buying from Joe Davies?

EquilibriumÂŽ Lunar Tones

Leonardo Strawberry Thief

Over 2,500 brand new gifts 10,000+ lines to choose from Only ÂŁ100 minimum order ‘Little & Often’ ordering system FREE next day delivery The Greats Gold Award winner 2018 for customer service

Tel: 0161 975 6300 email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk *LIW 7RGD\ GSV 6SULQJ )DLU -DQ )HE LQGG

NEWS

Waitrose to ban plastic glitter Waitrose have pledged to ban plastic glitter found in their Christmas products by 2020 in response to growing pressure for grocery retailers to do more to combat plastic waste. ‘While it’s important to eliminate the use of glitter, we’ll find other ways to make sure our products sparkle at Christmas and throughout the year,’ said Tor Harris, head of social responsibility.

Parlane International Joins the Gallery Group Gallery Direct has announced the purchase of Parlane International, one of the UK’s top interior companies, who design and supply home accessories to the trade. The purchase, which was completed in January, was part of a strategic decision to expand Gallery’s home accessories collection to boost their complete interiors offering.

‘This is great news for Gallery’s and Parlane’s clients,’ commented Peter Delaney, Managing Director of Gallery Direct. ‘The two companies share the same core values and work ethics. Like ourselves, they are a well-established business who have developed a strong, trusted brand, focusing on design, quality and value for money.’

Mike Burgess, Managing Director of Parlane International Ltd, commented: ‘We are very proud of our business, which has been developed over the last 48 years. We have grown to a size where we now need to partner with a likeminded business.’

Xystos buys Di Palomo PaperAwards SS19 winners announced Raspberry Blossom, Cardy Club and Lagom came top of the public vote.

Sponsored by G.F Smith, the PaperAwards support and recognise the creativity and innovation of talented exhibitors. Visitors to Top Drawer had the opportunity to see the winning and shortlisted designs, and meet the winners and finalists in person, at the PaperAwards S/S19 showcase in the heart of the Greetings & Stationery area.

Dartington Crystal on TV The ITV 4 documentary series Made in Britain has featured many great British manufacturing businesses and their products.

One of the latest was Devon based crystal and glassmakers Dartington. The 30 minute programme shown in December, let viewers see how their classic Dimple Double Old Fashioned tumbler is mouth-blown and hand crafted from molten crystal to create this iconic drinkware piece.

New face at Jumbo The company are delighted to announce the appointment of a new national account manager who has joined the team. Carianne Wylie joins the team with over 10 years’ experience of sales and retail management making her the ideal addition to the existing team. Carianne will be looking after a wide variety of key accounts across the company’s portfolio, such as online platforms, toy specialists, high street retailers and garden centres.

10 gifts today

Xystos has bought leading bath and body brand Di Palomo from owners Unex Designs.

Unex directors concluded that after a successful 18-month period of being distributed by Newcastle based Xystos this was ‘unquestionably the correct commercial decision’.

David Lewis, MD of Xystos, comments: ‘We are delighted to own this prestigious brand and regard its acquisition as a natural development as we increase our own intellectual property portfolio.’

Bag charge to double The price of single-use plastic bags is soon set to double to 10p across the UK amid the Government’s latest effort to reduce waste. Retail Gazette reported that Environment Secretary Michael Gove has laid out plans to increase the cost, while extending the initiative to every shop in the UK rather than the current law covering only major retailers such as supermarkets.

Small and medium-sized retailers are exempt although many do voluntarily impose the 5p charge but among the estimated 253,000 shops that don’t, some 3.6 billion bags are understood to have been handed out since the tax was imposed in 2015.

MAD Beauty_Gifts Today.pdf 1 07/01/2019 10:38:15

Gift Giving…All Wrapped Up! ENESCO LIMITED, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, England, CA3 0EN. UK Customer Services: Telephone: 01228 404022 Email: trade@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services: Telephone: +44 1228 404066 Email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk

Join us at the International Spring Fair

4H81

4H80

NEC, Birmingham 3rd–7th Feb 2019 Hall 4, H80-J81

© 2019 Pusheen; Pusheen®. © GUND 2019. GUND is a division of Spin Master Inc. en9077-gifts-today-dps-feb19.indd 1

03/01/2019 14:02

en9077-

19 14:02

a

4H81

4H91

4H80-J81

4H90-J91

en9077-gifts-today-dps-feb19.indd 2

t that last

4H100

03/01/2019 14:02

GA news Latest developments from The Giftware Association, the trade association serving the gift and home industry since 1947.

Who’s a GOTY winner?

Head to the awards on Sunday at Spring Fair to discover who will win each category of Gift of the Year – and who will scoop the big overall prize!

You’re invited!

GOTY awards

Sunday 3 February 2019 Main stage, Hall 20, NEC Drinks reception from 6.15, followed by awards See you there!

W

ith the shortlist of Gift of the Year announced just before Christmas, all eyes are now on the NEC in February where the winners will be crowned.

The judges - including Gifts Today editor Sally Norton - had their work cut out this year with over 1100 entries across 20 categories. At the final judging day in January, judges got to touch, hold and smell the shortlisted products to make their final choices.

‘As ever, we are delighted by the diversity of products this year. We are blown away by some of our categories, particularly Ethical Gift and Design & Craft, which have each more than doubled our expectations’, said Luke Palmer, the competition’s project manager.

The winners from the live judging day will be kept under wraps and announced on the first evening of Spring Fair in February, at an allinclusive ceremony on the main stage in Hall 20. Everyone is invited to see who the winners are, and it’s an excellent opportunity for buyers and retailers to meet the people behind the products. Entry to the event is free and The Giftware Association would like to invite as many of the industry to come together to raise a toast to the hard work of the winners, to network and celebrate all that is great about the home and giftware world. Finalists across key gift categories include:

giftoftheyear.co.uk

14 gifts today

Contemporary Gift • Flip Click Clock – Gingko Electronics • Frida Kahlo Boho Collection – Talking Tables • Gentlemen’s Hardware Recycled Leather Range – Wild & Wolf • Modern Classics – Two Little Boys

Home Fragrance • Infusion – Stoneglow Candles • The Open Window – Heyland & Whittle • Urban Botanics – Stoneglow Candles • Wild Things Luxury Scented Candle Born With Cattitude – Ashleigh & Burwood

Fashion Accessory • Blade & Rose – Arora Design • Cosmetic Bag Collection – Wrendale Designs • Unicorn Umbrella – Something Different Wholesale • United Oddsocks Stress Heads – Sock Academy

Hot Novelty • Animal Nano Origami – The Lagoon Group • Pop Out Unicorn Greeting Card – The Pop Out Card Co • Unicorn Umbrella – Something Different Wholesale • Weird Things Humans Search For – Big Potato Games

Ethical Gift • Bee Green Wraps – Bee Green Wraps • Handcrafted Gift Wrap Sheets – Paper Mirchi

• Ideas Range – Vent For Change • Palm Leaf Plates & Bowls – Talking Tables

Children’s Gift • About The Seashore Nature Kit – The Green Board Game Co • Compendium Tickle Monster Laughter Book Kit – Widdop And Co • Engenius Contraptions Marble Run – Cheatwell Games • Sow And Grow Kits – Gift Republic

Fashion Jewellery • Glitter Charm Bracelets – Carrie Elspeth • In A Nutshell Locket – Christin Ranger Jewellery • Katy Welsh Earrings - Gin – U Studio Design • Love You To The Moon Pendant – Sheila Kerr Jewellery

Gift Stationery • Bookaroo Pen Pouch For Books – If (That Company Called) • Personalised Happily Ever After Wedding Planner – Personalised Memento Company • Unicorn Boxed Notelets – Deckled Edge • Yes Studio Stationery Range – Wild & Wolf

Beauty, Bath & Spa • Betty Hula Delicate Dusting Powder – Betty Hula • Peony Rose – Beefayre • Sleep Easy Gift Box – Heyland & Whittle • Villains Face Mask Book Set – Mad Beauty

Branded Product • Disney Christopher Robin – Widdop And Co • Harry Potter Hogwarts Crest Colour Changing Umbrella – Half Moon Bay • Personalised Beano Annual From Your Year – Signature Gifts • Professor Rubik - Rubik Square – The Lagoon Group

Commemorative & Collectable Gift • Disney Classic Collectable Mugs – Widdop And Co. • Paddington Book And Coin Set – Signature Gifts • Sweet Memories Tins – Gibsons • Vintage Years Tumbler – English Pewter Co

Design & Craft • Citygami London – Clockwork Soldier • Craft Your Own Herbal Handsalve – Bathing Beauty • Felt Embroidery Needle Case Kit – Corinne Lapierre • Handcrafted Gift Wrap Sheets – Paper Mirchi

Food & Outdoor • Baking Club Gift Subscription – Bakedin • British Roast Dinner Box – Ross & Ross Food • Christmas Rocks – Two Little Boys • Tough Nut – O’Donnell Moonshine

www.ga-uk.org

CREATING MOMENTS As a gift for others, a treat for ourselves or a workplace essential, stationery is a striking and personal way for people to express themselves. @stationeryshowsuk @stationerybytes

Register now to discover the ultimate gift.

stationeryshowlondon.co.uk/giftstoday

@stationeryshowsuk

exhibition news

The London Stationery Show gets it right Pen and pencils at the ready for the London Stationery Show! The 2019 show will include a full programme of show features, live talks and thought-provoking features, live talks and thought-provoking design and trend initiatives put together with stationery buyers and retailers in mind.

Stationery Awards 2019 The show will also run the annual Stationery Awards that will take place on the Tuesday evening of the show.

These Awards are now bigger and better as they have been expanded to include retailer categories for the first time. Both specialist retailers and those who sell stationery as part of their offer are eligible for the five honours, designed to recognise and benchmark good practice and innovation in the retail sector.

The categories are Best Customer Experience Initiative, Best POS/ Merchandised Display, New Store Of The Year, Best Specialist Stationery Retailer, Best Non-Specialist Stationery Retailer.

All entries should relate to the past year of trading, from January 2018 to January 2019, with the online entry form to be completed

by February 15. Retailers can enter themselves or be nominated by customers, agents or account managers, and can enter as many categories as they wish, and the judges would appreciate images to help them understand the business offer.

Relevant industry judges will assess all entries, with the finalists to be revealed at the end of February, and all shortlisted companies will be able to showcase their teams’ skills and hard work. stationeryawards.co.uk

Pure Class Visitors to February’s fashion trade show Pure London will be treated to a re-edited layout and a surge of new British and international brands who have signed up to showcase their AW19/20 collections.

Julie Driscoll, Managing Director of leading festival of fashion Pure London, says; ‘The February show will offer visitors a host of new brands and we are really looking forward to revealing our floorplan re-edit which will freshen the show, offer new discoveries, and give the space new life.’

Pure London’s strongest sector growth area is the newly created Gen Z section encapsulating the energy and mood of young fashion and set to burst with of-theminute, trend-led, street style and unisex collections.

Pure London and Pure Origin takes place at London Olympia from 10-12 February 2019. purelondon.com

LaunchPad London 2019 The annual competition to find and support individuals and companies in their efforts to break into the steadily growing stationery industry is back for its fourth edition at Stationery Show London 2019.

Run for the first time by the London Stationery Show in April 2017, the LaunchPad initiative has so far showcased 30 new hopefuls, with some notable successes for winners such as Back Pocket Notebook, Peace & Blessings, Paper Mirchi, Type and Story and Batch.Work, to name but a few.

The LaunchPad search aims to find up to 12 individuals or companies with new ideas for products or services for the stationery industry.

Entrants just need to put their ideas and a product sample forward to be in with a chance of winning a free exhibition stand at the 2019 Stationery Show London. The closing date for entries is 28 February 2019. stationeryshowlondon.co.uk/launchpad

Fact File London Stationery Show When: Tuesday 30 April – Wednesday 1 May 2019 Where: Business Design entre, Islington, London stationeryshowlondon.co.uk

16 gifts today

All set for the BCTF The British Craft Trade Fair will showcase the very best authentic British collections.

It runs from 7-9 April 2019. The use of traditional skills combined with 21st century ones mean that Britain is leading the way with fresh new innovative designs across a huge variety of product categories including: jewellery, glassware, metalwork, fine art, greetings cards, ceramics, fashion accessories and homewares.

Promoting British art and craft has been a passion for the BCTF team for over 38 years, this longevity within an industry with ever changing ideals and craftsmanship has proven to be both exciting and rewarding, this is the perfect event for retailers seeking affordable British design led products with sound provenance and strong design values.

Heading into its 45th year in 2019, BCTF will host hundreds of independent designermakers in a fabulous state of the art venue, the Yorkshire Event Centre in beautiful Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Trade prices for the unique handmade works on display start from just a few pounds and there will be plenty to choose from. The British Craft Trade Fair has remained over its 44-year history the largest display of unique items from exhibitors who are guaranteed to be working from Great Britain and Ireland.

Visit: bctf.co.uk

licensing news

Happy birthday Enesco

New RHS line with Moorcroft The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has announced that their licensing partner Moorcroft, a renowned producer of heritage art pottery and a leading name in the world of ceramic design, has produced a brand-new RHS collection. The RHS Beatrix Stanley Collection is a beautiful line of art pottery, with designs based on the floral watercolour studies of the gardener and painter Lady Beatrix Stanley as well as the iris that celebrates her name.

Catherine Gage, Director of Legal & Marketing W Moorcroft Ltd, says: ‘Renowned ceramic designer Nicola Slaney has produced a vibrant but delicate homage to the captivating works of Lady Stanley.’

Cathy Snow, RHS Licensing Manager, says: ‘As a horticultural authority and a creator of marvellous watercolours of the flowers and plants she loved so much, Lady Beatrix Stanley’s life and work are well worth celebrating. This beautiful new art pottery collection from a valued RHS partner is a fitting tribute to this wonderful woman.’

2019 is a very special year for all at Enesco - whose portfolio includes licensed products from the likes of Disney, Beatrix potter and Peppa Pig as they are celebrating their 25th anniversary. ary.

Having purchased Lilliput Lane and Border Fine Arts the company was registered as Enesco European Giftware Group back in January 1994, more recently known as Enesco Limited. Together the two companies joined forces and moved to a new headquarters in Carlisle that remains their home today.

Innovation First partners with Kellytoy The deal will see Innovation First, creators of the universally popular Hexbug brand, distribute the new Squishmallows range exclusively throughout the UK. The plush toys combine the cuteness and wide appeal of the Japanese ‘Kawaii’ look with an irresistible squishy softness.

Tony Norman, President and CEO of Innovation First comments: ‘The popularity of Squishmallows in 2018 has been phenomenal and we know that this new take on the soft collectable will appeal to children of all ages. We are supporting the launch with an intensive marketing campaign beginning in early 2019.’

National Gallery’s first international café opens

Poetic Brands get brewing Apparel specialist Poetic Brands has signed a new deal with Wychwood brewery to develop a clothing range based around its beer brands, which include the famed Hobgoblin.

The brewery is known for the fabulous artwork that adorns its bottles and pump clips, much of which is inspired by the myths and legends surrounding the ancient Wychwood Forest that once dominated the area near the brewery’s Oxfordshire base. The deal will see Poetic Brands using classic Wychwood imagery to create an adult clothing range that promises to have huge appeal for beer fans.

18 gifts today

The National Gallery Company has continued to expand its brand offering in Asia with the opening of a new café in Seoul, South Korea. Located in the Lotte Shopping Mall and branded under Delicious Art, it is the National Gallery Company’s first international café.

The National Gallery Delicious Art café was designed by creatives Teo Yang Studio who, throughout the project, made reference to the architecture of the National Gallery building in London. The space is dominated by an oversized replica of Monet’s ‘The Water-Lily Pond’ and Van Gogh’s ‘Van Gogh’s Chair’ - encouraging visitors to interact with the art. Food and drink packaging corresponds to existing Delicious Art branding and ties in with the aesthetic of the National Gallery in London.

Judith Mather, Buying and Merchandising Director at The National Gallery Company comments: ‘This is great for the global reach of the Delicious Art brand and the National Gallery, London. I am looking forward to opening other cafés in the region in 2019’

Supporting your industry for 29 years Month: January 2019 Issue: 3 Volume: 30

SPECIAL PREVIEW

THE COMPLETE GIFT SOLUTION HAS ARRIVED

JEWELLERY

CHRISTMAS

HANDBAGS

TABLEWARE

CANDLES

VISIT US AT: SPRING FAIR NEC BIRMINGHAM 3RD -7TH FEB 2019 - HALL 4 - STAND C50 To become a stockist email: bryn@alliedimports.com www.baileyandbrooke.co.uk

Gifts Today B&B Full Page 315 x 240mm.indd 5

04/01/2019 12:21

Bailey & Brooke

So Stylish

Bailey & Brooke Hall 4, stand C50

New season collections from Bailey & Brooke 2019.

The Bailey & Brook Handbag Collection

Bailey & Brooke have created a stunning collection of stylish and on trend handbags and wallets.

Expertly designed and manufactured, the Bailey & Brooke design team have travelled the world, visiting all the designer fashion shows to create these chic and functional handbags.

From casual to formal affairs, they have a handbag to suit your requirements.

Their handbag collection is a perfect complement to any ensemble, the epitome of refined luxury

The Luminosity Jewellery Collection

Introducing new addition to the Bailey & Brooke Jewellery Collection – Luminosity.

Inspired by the colours of the world‌desert sunsets in Morocco, the vibrant rich tones of Marrakesh to the fresh crystal blue coastline of the French Riveria. The vibrant Luminosity Collection has been designed to add a little sunshine whatever the season.

This new collection includes a vast array of bracelets, earrings, bangles and necklaces, each one featuring a myriad of colours and accents.

Email: bryn@alliedimports.com Visit: baileyandbrooke.co.uk

Spring Fair

Leap into Spring Fair Packing every hall of the NEC, with 16 show sectors, exhibitors and visitors are perfectly positioned to connect.

With thousands of exhibitors, retailers, buyers and manufacturers heading to Birmingham for the annual Spring Fair, we spoke to key gift exhibitors and retailers to discover what they hope to achieve at this year’s show...

Retailers say…

‘We sell gifts all year round and like to refresh the autumn/winter range with some new lines in the spring.

Buying online is like buying from a catalogue, and our customers don’t do either when they choose to come into our store. If an item tempts us, and the price is right, our customers will be tempted by it too – touchy feely is essential for the sensitive gift purchaser. We also like to get a feel for what is happening trend wise in the gift market that you can only get by walking the show and this is the best way to find new and different suppliers. Once you have seen and felt the products you are happy to re-order online or from a catalogue.’

Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens, Broxburn ‘We believe you have to go to plan for the coming year. You need to see new product from suppliers, I wouldn’t dream of relying of buying product online, as we say to our customers, you need to touch and feel products if you are making a purchase and it’s always good to practise what we preach.’

Kevin Bellwood, Roobarb, Bridgnorth, Shropshire

Did you know…?

‘I love Spring Fair because it allows us to exhibit our full range in the flesh, giving customers old and new the chance to see everything PMC has to offer.’

Cara Beech, new product manager, Personalised Memento Company.

‘Exhibiting at Spring Fair since 1996, we find it a great way to kick start the season and a chance to see all our customers early in the calendar year.’

Anna Borrett, Ashleigh & Burwood.

It’s a fantastic networking opportunity, which gives us a great chance to chat to both potential and existing customers.’

Yvonne Hambridge, marketing manager, Price’s Patent Candles.

‘It’s the best opportunity to catch up with our customers and meet new ones.’

Perry Simmons, MD, Stoneglow ‘It marks the start. The start of the giftware calendar year, the start of all our new product launches to the widest possible audience and the time we start to see all the amazing new products in store.’

Andrew Illingworth, MD, Widdop and Co. ‘It’s always wonderful to see our faith in new product rewarded with great sales at the UK’s biggest home and gift show.’

Tom Sykes, Xystos.

Louis Vuitton, Pinterest and the V&A lead speaker programme at Spring Fair 2019. With three theatre and workshop spaces, there’s plenty of opportunity to listen, learn and connect with key trendsetters and sector experts at the show.

‘It’s THE place to meet old friends and new, have a laugh, share ideas, get loads of orders, and explore Birmingham’s brilliant restaurants at night. What’s not to like? (I know, set up, pack down!).’

Jules Vahrman, Wild Things.

gifts today 19

Spring Fair

‘It’s an exciting and challenging time for the industry’ Editor Sally Norton caught up with Julie Driscoll, MD of Spring Fair, to discover why this year’s Spring Fair is set to be more relevant than ever What’s your journey to becoming MD of Spring Fair?

I was previously the managing director of the Fashion Portfolio and I’ve been working in the events industry for over ten years.

What can we expect from Spring Fair 2019 with you at the helm?

We’re going to deliver a higher return on investment for our exhibitors and an unrivalled return on time for buyers. It’s an exciting and challenging time for the industry and one that I relish helping our customers navigate for their continued business success. Spring Fair offers plenty of help, support and advice for retailers and suppliers to make 2019 their best year yet, so I’m really delighted to be leading the great team we have. We’ll ensure that our visitors have the toolkit at their disposal to adapt to changes in the sector, whilst always having the consumers’ needs at the forefront of their minds.

What effect do you foresee Brexit – if it happens – having on the Fair?

I can only comment on what we know which is that - potential extension to the transition period notwithstanding – the UK will leave the European Union on 29 March 2019. But what we need to remember is that in the face of the ongoing uncertainty, the British consumer is incredibly resilient. Retail had a bumper summer last year, and a number of big high street retailers such as John Lewis and Selfridges, are already reporting strong numbers for the recent festive period.

It’s not all doom and gloom!

Spring Fair will help ensure that the sector is in a strong position, helping retailers and suppliers maintain 20 gifts today

collaboration and an open conversation. Brexit will see opportunities for sector representatives to source and market products in person become even more important, and Spring Fair is the place to do just that.

It will be one of the last chances for retailers to come together and listen to each other as well as experts on how to best prepare for the year ahead.

What makes the timing and location of Spring fair so good?

Spring Fair is the gateway to the rest of the retail calendar. It services all the upcoming year’s major gifting periods from Mothers’ Day and Easter, right through to Christmas and beyond. It will help set many retailers’ 2019 agendas, offering them an opportunity to get up close and hands on with the year’s freshest and most on-trend products.

What’s new for 2019’s Fair?

Across all the show’s 15 sectors, Spring Fair will be welcoming hundreds of new exhibitors, and thousands of products and ranges – it is vast! With a new year comes exciting new additions to the Spring Fair line up, and updates to the event’s most popular sectors.

The ‘First’ initiative across a number of show sectors alongside ‘Debut’ in Greetings are set to offer upand-coming and pioneering exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their products at the largest and ever encompassing sourcing marketplace for Home & Gift.

Amongst the newcomers in Spring Fair’s Gift showcase for 2019 will be one of Europe’s largest candle manufacturers, Gala Candles, who will exhibit alongside other well-established and long-standing home fragrance brands including Yankee Candle, Bolsius, Price’s Candles and Wax Lyrical. In addition,

the 2019 exhibitors line up in Contemporary Gifts will also include first timers Portico Designs and KMI Brands alongside Nordal, J-line by Jolipa, Nkuku, RJB Stone, Chic Antique and Manta Gifts, just to name a few of more than 600 exhibitors displaying their new ranges in the Gift and Contemporary Gifts halls.

Why, do you think, should buyers attend the show this year?

Spring Fair always offers unrivalled scale, variety and choice for gift sector buyers. This year’s event is set to inject a fresh and vibrant flair into retailers’ 2019, with a first look at the hottest, most on-trend and most desirable new items on the market.

As we continue to wake up to the fact that not everything we see and shop for online is as good as it may appear, retail events like Spring Fair are becoming increasingly important to the industry. Quality – at a reasonable price – is of paramount concern to consumers, so the ability for buyers to be able to touch and feel the products they’re buying is more important than ever. Spring Fair allows visitors to strike up a real relationship with suppliers and truly get to grips with their products.

How do you make such a huge show easy to shop?

Autumn Fair saw us launch the successful Product Match app, which helped visitors find and locate the best suppliers for their business. At Spring Fair 2019, we’ll be relaunching a newly improved and updated version of the app to help visitors cut through the noise to the exhibitors that are most relevant and important to them.

Gifts Today Ad Feb 19.pdf 1 13/12/2018 13:14:27

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Spring Fair

Xystos

Hall 4, Stand H50-J51

Xystos tunes in to Spring Fair with Cello as Splosh makes a big splash.

The Cello home fragrance collection of candles, reed diffusers and accessories will lead the charge for one-stop shop Xystos with a raft of new products at Spring Fair.

The spring/summer launch sees the addition of three new scents, Ginger Fizz, Cucumber Spritz and Poppy Blush in different sized jars, as well as wax medallions, scent cups, standard and hourglass reed diffusers and essential oils.

Cello’s new ultrasonic diffusers will be introduced in three different styles with colours to suit any décor.

These are spearheaded by six decanters, while the Signature ultrasonic diffusers use fragrance burst colours and red and blue. There is also a simple dream catcher design.

Essential oils are being launched for the ultrasonic diffusers, comprising the UK’s 12 best-selling fragrances, as well as five unique, exclusive scents and the three new spring/summer fragrances. Cello also adds six new porcelain accessories in tea light domes and barrel-shaped and straight electric melt burners.

Eight new Splosh ranges are also being introduced. Hamptons features a variety

Photo finish Abacus Cards Hall 3, stand L10-M11 Fabulous new photographic images have been added to the Countryfile range by Abacus Cards. Now in its 30th year Countryfile is one of the BBC’s best-loved programmes, and continues to be the country’s most popular weekly factual TV programme reporting on farming and rural issues while celebrating the beauty and diversity of the British countryside, Building on the success of this brand Abacus are launching nine stunning new designs in the collection of rural landscapes, coastal scenes, farm animals, working dogs and agricultural machinery.

There are also 12 new designs including a wren, polecats, tawny owl, bank vole, long-tailed tit, greenfinch, rabbits, otters, fox and badger in the BBC Earth Springwatch collection, perfect range for those passionate about nature and the great outdoors. Both ranges are blank inside, with a branded Countryfile and BBC Earth Srpingwatch front labels, the 160x160mm designs carry factual information relevant to the featured image on the reverse.

Call: 01638 445396 Visit: abacuscards.co.uk

22 gifts today

of coastal homewares that capture the essence of beachside living, while the Magnolia homewares collection brings the simplistic elegance of magnolias into the home mixed with organic textures and trending tones of off-white and olive green.

The Splosh Mushrooms range features caring messages, while Travel Maps enable the adventurous to ‘pin’ where they’ve been and want to go.

There are new Mini Change Boxes and hanging Loving Hearts with sentimental sayings. And Message Boxes enable well-wishers to leave their kind thoughts on special occasions. Little Boxes of Love, bearing inscriptions, complete the new introductions.

Bath & body will also be to the fore. Di Palomo continues to win admirers with a range of appealingly presented products, while The Naked Bee’s Orange Blossom Honey products range from shampoo to restoration foot balm.

Look out too for Himalayan Chef products, as well as Himalayan Glow natural salt lamps and stunning centrepieces

Call: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk Visit: xystostrade.co.uk

Cover story - Price’s Candles

Over the rainbow with Price’s Candles The company are set to extend their fabulous Fragrance Collection at Spring Fair 2019, taking the range to an astounding 30 contemporary fragrances aimed firmly at the younger generation of candle lovers. Proof positive that Price’s Candles are both heritage and on-trend

V

isitors to Price’s Candles’ stand at last year’s Spring Fair will remember the launch of their Fragrance Collection with its bold colours and contemporary scents. Over the year, the range has gone down incredibly well with consumers of all ages and, in February 2019, the company are set to launch a further six fragrances to complete the collection and take it to an astounding 30 fragrances.

While Price’s Candles may be known to many as a heritage brand, with a history dating back to 1830 and a Royal Warrant for Her Majesty the Queen, they are now becoming known to a whole new generation as a company that offers fresh, contemporary candles. And that’s where the Fragrance Collection comes in. It offers a variety of sizes and burn times within the range, starting from the smallest candle tin with a burn time of 25 hours, up to the contemporary large glass jar, with a burn time of up to 150 hours. All this is offered alongside a reed diffuser, to create the perfect fragrance layering in any home.

Current popular fragrances from the collection are the relaxing Spa Moments, which features base notes of camomile designed to create a soothing, tranquil environment in the home, as well as the ever-popular Black Cherry; a delicious mix of ripe, handpicked cherries and bitter almonds, this deliciously sweet fragrance gives a long lasting and intensely mouth watering scent.

It’s typical of Price’s Candles that they listen carefully to their customers. In fact the final six fragrances launching at Spring Fair were created following direct feedback from customers.

They discovered that, while people were looking for subtle scents, they also wanted a bright, bold design to complement the interior design within their homes. As a result, the company have come up with six following new fragrances and colourways.

The entire collection in its rainbow beauty can be viewed at Spring Fair 2019, where Price’s Candles will be offering 13 show deals, with savings of up to 55% off. In addition to this, all orders taken at the show will receive a further 5% off.

24 gifts today

Magnolia Wax colour: Bright fuchsia Scent: Elegant base notes of sweet magnolia, in perfect harmony with top notes of rose and jasmine.

Warm Cashmere Wax colour: Pale grey Scent: Calming notes of coconut, cashmere wood, musk and vanilla bean, this warming fragrance promotes comfort and relaxation.

White Musk Wax colour: Ivory Scent: Inspired by the delicate scent of fresh linen sheets drying in the sun, this soft,

sweet fragrance combines the downy skin of almonds with the silky notes of white musk.

Sandalwood Wax colour: Golden orange Scent: A woody, oriental fragrance with milkysoft top notes.

Did you know?

All visitors to Price’s Candles’ stand at Spring Fair w ill receive a free candle tin in sw eet, juicy Melon.

Retailer Q&A

We caught up with Andrew Scott Cogan from the Toy and Gift Shop in Haltwhistle, Northumberland, to discover why Price’s Candles work for his business. The toy and gift shop stocks a vast array of quality toys and gifts for the entire family.

What is your history with Price’s Candles?

We’ve been stocking Price’s Candles since September last year and they’ve already taken off in our shop! Right from the very first week they’ve sold incredibly well. We’d sold LED candles in our shop for a while and our customers were telling us they wanted to buy the real thing. We were initially a bit hesitant about stocking candles, so to make sure we had the very best product, we tried about four different candle manufacturers, including Price’s Candles, who came out the best in our tests in terms of the quality and performance – and the fact the scent remained strong throughout the entire burn of the candle.

What did you find helpful in the buying process with Price’s Candles?

We initially started off with a small tower display of the Fragrance Collection and quickly introduced an expanded range as the product sell through was so good. We wanted to give our customers a larger choice in both fragrances and price point.

Having the larger range and a greater variety of fragrances available has inevitably attracted more customers, which is great for us. We have had and continue to have a really good service from the Price’s Candles Sales team and I’d like to say that the rep who visited us was actually the best we’ve ever come across! We think Price’s Candles are a fantastic company to deal with; we really believe we’ve successfully expanded our business with a quality product from Price’s Candles.

What feedback do you get from your customers on the Fragrance Collection?

We’ve had great feedback from all of our customers – we’re a small, local business and people have actually travelled quite long distances to purchase Price’s Candles from our shop, so stocking them has worked really well for us. The customers love the variety of fragrances, the burn times, the quality… everything really – we haven’t heard anything negative!

What is your personal favourite fragrance and why is this ?

Mandarin and Ginger is my personal favourite. This was the initial sample that the sales agent bought into us and really cemented the fact that we wanted to stock candles. This has also been one of our bestsellers, so it seems like our customers agree with me!

Oriental Nights Wax colour: Cream Scent: A spicy, flowery bouquet marked by citrus and zesty top notes, along with a heart of rose, all combined with cosy base notes of sandalwood

Argon Wax colour: Sand Scent: A delicious combination of zesty citrus, sweet vanilla and musky amber notes to create a calming, rich and woody aroma

Get in touch

Spring Fair, Hall 4, stand E80-F81 Call: 01234 264500

Email: sales@prices-candles.co.uk Visit: prices-candles.co.uk gifts today 25

Spring Fair

So stylish Stoneglow Hall 8, standA15 Urban Botanic is a new range that aims to bring the outdoors to the indoors. The exotic aromas packaged in fun vibrant vessels will transport you to a relaxing urban oasis. The stunning collection of ceramic diffusers and candles are available in four punchy scents and tropical colourways. These are sure to make a wow statement. This stunning range has been shortlisted for Gift of the Year 2019 along with Infusion! Stoneglow are so proud to have two collections shortlisted.

They have given their iconic Modern Classics range a facelift. Simplicity is key for this timeless collection, with classic designs and modern aromas, selected for their captivating fragrances. Their beautiful Modern Classic collection comes in seven decadent high fragrances of candles and diffusers.

Another big change is Stoneglow’s Nature’s Gift collection that has also had a revamp, with new bottles and packaging featuring the tree of life.

Additionally, they have added in new fragrances to key ranges, hanging perfume cards to their loved Luna range, and many more new lines.

Call: 020 8595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk Visit: stoneglowcandles.co.uk

O the Over rrainbow Rainbow Designs R Hall 5, stand H21 H R Rainbow Designs will be adding over 30 adorable new lines to their classic character portfolio in 2019. This year will ch mark the milestone 50th anniversary for m Eric Carle’s classic storybook character, E The Very Hungry Caterpillar. To celebrate T this momentous occasion, the Home of th the Classic Characters is launching an th exciting new nursery range. e The beautiful, new Tiny and Very Hungry Caterpillar Collection features a H beautiful selection of products crafted b sspecifically for the newborn to 18 months age range. Gorgeous new nursery toys a iinclude a wooden and plush Ring Rattle, colourful apple-shaped Comfort Blanket c with attachable clip and textured Jiggle w A Attachable Toy. Also new are the Booties presented in a gift box, developmental A Activity Spiral, and a fun-packed Activity T Toy for sensory play.

To mark the 50th Anniversary of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Rainbow Designs will also be launching a colourful and super cuddly, Made With Love Very Hungry Caterpillar, created from knit fabric with beautifully embroidered detail to give a stylish homespun feel.

There will be some gorgeous new additions to the Classic Winnie-the-Pooh ‘Hundred Acre Wood’ collection of whimsical and high quality range of baby soft toys. Brand new for 2019 is a Jiggle Winnie-the-Pooh, baby soft Booties in a gift box, a charming Winnie-the-Pooh Cot Mobile and a Gift Set featuring a tactile Comfort Blanket and Ring Rattle presented in a beautifully illustrated box.

For Disney fans of all ages there is a cute new Classic Winnie-the-Pooh in a Union Jack bag, and the adorable Made With Love Winnie-the-Pooh 20cm toy made from knit fabric to deliver a home-made feel and create a forever keepsake of this beloved bear.

Call: 01329 227300 Visit: rainbowdesigns.co.uk 26 gifts today

3 rd - 7 th Feb | NEC Birmingham

HALL 4 Stand G10 - J11

One of seven stunning Christmas themes for 2019 sales@widdopandco.co.uk | www.widdop.co.uk | 0161 688 1226 Broadway Business Park, Broadgate, Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 9XE

Spring Fair

Great gifts Enesco Hall 4, stand H100 2019 is a very special year for Enesco, as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. Proudly still the leaders in both gift and contemporary collectables, they will launch over 800 new products at the Spring Fair, featuring brand new licences Peppa Pig and Jimmy The Bull, plus new distribution lines LIHIT Lab, Kafe In The Box. Plus of course extensive additions to their Disney Collection, Beatrix Potter, Heartwood Creek and Willow Tree.

Maleficent Enesco, is delighted to present a brand-new figurine from the much-loved 1939 Disney feature-length animated film, Sleeping Beauty. The Maleficent as Dragon Figurine depicts the moment in the movie the evil fairy transitions into a fire-breathing dragon. In a bid to prevent Prince Philip from sharing true love’s kiss with the sleeping Aurora, as he attempts to break Maleficent’s most terrible curse.

Enchanting Disney Building on its highly popular licensed brand collaboration with Disney, Enesco has unveiled a brand new series in its Enchanting Disney collection.

Featuring all twenty-six letters of the alphabet, the new Enchanting Disney Alphabet items are set to spell out success and be a big hit with your customers. Each letter features a different character from one of Disney’s best-loved films at the base of the figurine. The letters mostly feature characters with names that either begin with that letter, or share a phonetically similar sound within their name.

Bloomin Contemporary gift retailer Enesco is delighted to announce a brand-new line from Lihit Lab, called Bloomin. Jam-packed with bloomin’ good ideas for organisation with colourful accessories to brighten up any day, the new items from Lihit Lab are every fashion-conscious stationery lover’s dream.

The Book Band and Pencil Case is made from a pliable silicon fabric featuring a wave incision down the centre of the case to easily slip pens and pencils into it without them falling out. With the capacity to hold up to three pens or pencils, the innovative band design allows your customers to neatly and efficiently attached the pencil case to the cover of their note pad, with the snap-on adjustable strap changeable to fit covers between 18-21cm.

To complement the Book Band and Pencil Case, the Bloomin Bag makes the perfect partner for all your customers’ pens, pencils and other stationery needs. Made with the same silicon fabric as the pencil case, the Bloomin Bag is self-standing, easily washable and opens super-wide for easy access.

Peppa Pig Enesco is proud to present a brand new licensed Peppa Pig collection – all the items necessary for arty fun and messy play. The collection includes a tabard, bib, apron and drawstring bag. All items in the new collection feature a colourful and fun print of Peppa Pig and her friends, set against a lovely teal background, making each item gender neutral and ideal for both little girls and boys to enjoy. The Peppa Pig Tabard, Peppa Pig Bib and Peppa Pig Apron are made of PU fabric, making them easily wipeable and perfect for protecting little ones’ clothing, when they are creating their own works of art!

The Peppa Pig Drawstring Bag which is the perfect choice to complement the collection, is made of cotton, making it a practical item for storing and transporting little ones’ belongings.

Visit: enesco.co.uk

28 gifts today

Mushrooms with a Message

These quirky artisan mushrooms feature a heartfelt message, making them a perfect gift for someone special.

Spirit

This range combines modern watercolour feathers in cool, neutral tones with a rustic textured background.

Magnolia

The Magnolia homewares collection brings the simplistic elegance of magnolias into your home, mixed with organic textures and trending tones of off white and olive green for a look that’s both sophisticated and warm.

See the full range at...

Xystos 'MBNF 'SBHSBODF t #BUI #PEZ

Gifts Today February.indd 1

Spring Fair NEC Birmingham 3 - 7 February 2019

Hall 4 Stand 4H50 - J51 For more info, contact our Customer Service Team Email: sales@xystos.co.uk or Tel: +44(0)191 499 1570 www.xystostrade.co.uk

09/01/2019 15:36:08

Spring Fair

Love to hug Keel Toys Hall 5, stand E40/F41 There have been some great new emerging colour schemes and fabric trends that will grow further in 2019. The trend of rose gold and soft fluorescents has been incorporated into Animotsu with a new four assorted selection of Elephant, Unicorn, Bear and Chihuahua in both 15cm and 25cm.

New for 2019 are the Glittermotsu ranges, finished in iridescent sequins in three product mixes with characters including Penguin, Unicorn, Dinosaur, Bear, Elephant and Monkey. Simply stroke the sequins to reveal the contrasting colour. In 20cm and 30cm sizes the ranges will add glitter to your sales this year.

Puppy eyes are adorable and heart melting to the point where you cannot help but love them. With those sad eyes you just want to cuddle, protect and love them. New adorable puppy eyes in Keel Toys Cuddle Puppies make them a breed apart. Each eye is bespoke to the breed of dog in size and colour including blue, green and brown variations. With weighted paws and a floppy body, they simply loved to be hugged. Without doubt Keel have put the play value and ahh value into the Cuddle Puppies. There are 12 designs in the 25cm size presented in a floor display that also features fabulous collars that are purchased separately. The breeds include old favourites like the Labrador and Husky and are complemented with new including French Bulldog, Labradoodle and Wheaten Terrier. Larger versions are available in 32cm, 37cm, and 47cm sizes. To complete the Cuddle Puppies there are 12 Standing Puppies with Lead which have always been a toy favourite.

Pugsley the cutest Pug of them all has some great new outfits for 2019 including a Rainbow Unicorn and Leopard Onesie plus novelty touches including a doughnut that will keep this pooch top of the breeds!

Call: 01233 506363 Email: sales@keeltoys.com Visit: keeltoys.com

30 gifts today

Spring Fair

Great giftware Widdop & Co Hall 4, stand G10-J11 There are so many new products, brands, licences and distributorships all on show on the Widdop stand at Spring Fair. Here’s a little taster of their new launches to whet your appetite.

Launched in 2018, The Aromatherapy Company has become a major force in the natural products market. The Therapy Man range is a new addition for 2019 targeting the burgeoning men’s grooming market.

Therapy Garden not surprisingly is aimed at gardeners, combining mint and wild lime essential oils expertly blended for the hard-working gardener.

Roald Dahl and his marvellous creations, iconically illustrated by Quentin Blake, are amongst the world’s most beloved characters and stories.

Their power to bewitch and enthral people of all generations is both timeless and truly magical. Widdop’s delightful range of giftware brings all your favourite characters and tales to life and is sure to bring a smile to everybody’s face.

Dads are important too! Widdop’s exclusive range of giftware for Father’s Day brims with heartfelt sentiments, quirky slogans and quality embellishments.

The Santa Express will be rolling into town packed full of their new Christmas 2019 ranges. Representing all the most exciting trends in interior decoration and design, The Santa Express is brimming with stunning decorations and functional festive giftware. Contemporary or traditional, Scandi rusticity or cheerful novelty, there’s really something for everyone.

Dreamy illustrations and luxury champagne foils combine to bring you the Swan Lake collection - produced under licence for Hotchpotch.

Offering contemporary, design led elegance with Hotchpotch’s signature glamour to create a stunning range of women’s giftware.

Call: 0161 688 1226 Email: sales@widdop.co.uk Visit: widdop.co.uk

32 gifts today

See TUHC’s Colonial Candle Offering at: Spring Fair Hall 4 Stand C41

Email: enquiries@TUHC.co.uk

Call: 0113 201 8822

Spring Fair

What a gift Lesser & Pavey Hall 5, stand D10-E11 On the Move Save time and the planet by carrying your own mug with you for a hot or cold drink. Lesser & Pavey introduce a range of Bamboo Travel Mugs in three designs, including one William Morris branded assortment. The range is made with ecofriendly sustainable natural bamboo fibre; the mugs are re-usable, environmentally friendly and dishwasher and microwave safe.

Birds at Home The Country Life Birds range consists of fine china mugs gift sets, as well as matching fine china jug, butter dish, eggcups, salt and pepper pots with a tea, coffee and sugar sealed canisters, individually sold. A great gift!

Bold, Fun and Educational Primary colours make this new range of melamine tabletop stand out, while the zoo animals illustrated help learn animal shapes and colours. The gift boxed range includes lunch bag, kids lap tray, cutlery, folding storage box and plastic water beaker.

Tropical Picnic Time There’s an array of tropical patterns in this Bamboo Eco Friendly Tropical Leaves range that includes beaker, bowl, plate, jug and trays in two sizes.

Silver Art Check out the nine large silver vase designs, with their cutting edge designs and icon status.

Close by are styled animal studies of a French bulldog sitting with a Chihuahua both relaxing, in a sitting pose with a standing pug, a pair of swimming fish, elephant bookends, Maasai people, cheetah and elephant family as well as mystical characters of unicorns and mermaids. Other style pieces include silver finish trumpeter, saxophonist guitarist and skull study.

Call: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk Visit: leonardo.co.uk

34 gifts today

Spring Fair

Fine quality Scottish Fine Soaps Hall 6-7 and 20, stand B04-C05 In 2019, Scottish Fine Soaps are delighted to unveil expansions of their most popular collections and introduce some true originals that your customers will love.

Their award-winning Men’s Grooming range has proven so popular that they’re creating a second, with a fresh new scent and colour, Vetiver & Sandalwood. They’ve given their best-selling Sea Kelp collection a makeover inside and out, and are adding must-have new products to Au Lait Noir, La Paloma, Coconut & Lime, Silver Buckthorn and Gardener’s Hand Therapy. And for ‘new new’ there’s their Original Recipes, a contemporary take on traditional ingredients featuring four blends of active extracts.

Skin friendly and earth friendly.

Their customers told them they preferred natural ingredients, so that’s all you’ll find – great news for those with sensitive skin. They’re also proud to have introduced their Men’s Grooming shampoo as a bar – the same high-quality shampoo you’ve come to expect from them, just not as you know it. By making it into a bar they’ve been able to cut down the number of plastic bottles they’re using and, to top it off, your shampoo bar will come in recyclable tin. It’s all part of the company’s longer-term commitment to reducing plastic waste. They believe in a clean planet as well as clean bodies!

Visit: scottishfinesoaps.com

Hello beautiful Rachel Ellen Designs Hall 3, stand 3R07 Brand new from Rachel Ellen Designs is a stunning range of fine bone china mugs that are bound to cause a stir.

Within the range are milestone ages from 30 to 60 in bright and bold designs along with others featuring various captions that include ‘shine bright’, ‘hello beautiful’ and ‘born to sparkle’.

Each mug comes with a bespoke coordinated premium quality hat style presentation box to complete what is a perfect gift.

Call: 0115 970 0321 Email: sales@rachelellen.co.uk Visit: rachelellen.co.uk

36 gifts today

Living Coral

Start 2019 with Living Coral Step aside Ultra Violet! The Pantone Colour of the Year has been named as Living Coral, described by the company as ‘a shade that affirms life through a dual role of energizing and nourishing.’ Lots of designers across gifting categories are taking inspiration from this shade and we highlight some of the best here.

Trend analysts and colour experts at Pantone have once again scoured the globe, drawing on entertainment, sport, fashion, art, travel and cultural influences, as well as socio-economic conditions, emerging tech and social media platforms, to find the colour that embodies the year ahead. The 20th Pantone Colour of the Year is a warm orangey shade with golden undertones, evoking coral reefs and the natural world - Pantone16-1546 (also known as Living Coral).

Juno vase by Dartington

dartington.co.uk

Ashleigh & Burwood Apricot Shimmer Lamp

ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk Alessi Mediterreaneo fruit bowl by LPWK and Emma Silvestris

alessi.com/en

Bronte By Moon Lambswool Coral Parquet Throw

moons.co.uk 38 gifts today

l earrings Resin and shel ollection C ia from the Flor illy M at Miss

Price’s Mandarin and Ginger Boxed Scented Candle

prices-candles.co.uk

k

missmilly.co.u

Crazy for Coral leatheresque notebook from Widdop & Co

Miffy sitting velvet toy in coral pink

widdop.co.uk

hurnandhurn.com

Talking Tables Decadent Decs Coral Honeycomb

talkingtables.co.uk

‘Colour is an equalising lens through which we experience our natural and digital realities and this is particularly true for Living Coral. With consumers craving human interaction and social connection, the humanising and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial Living Coral hit a responsive chord’ Leatrice Eiseman Executive director, Pantone Colour Institute

Orla Kiely Daschund set of two tea towels

orlakiely.com

Wild & Wolf Magnetic Flashlight Keyring Multi Tool

wildandwolf.co.uk gifts today 39

Spring Fair

At Liberty Liberty Candles Hall 4, stand D39 Liberty Candles have been appointed the exclusive distributor in the UK & Ireland for Candle Warmers Etc, and will be showing the range at Spring Fair.

Candle Warmers Etc was founded in 2000 by Bart Kennington who realised the potential dangers of lit candles when an unattended candle sparked a fire and destroyed a neighbour’s home. Bart set out looking for a solution and turned to a mug warmer he was given as a gift. He realised that the mug warmer was the perfect solution to release a candle’s fragrance without the need for an open flame. Following a hunch, Bart spent nearly all of his family’s savings and purchased five thousand mug warmers, introducing the world to a safer alternative to burning a candle.

Within a few years Candle Warmers Etc. was selling to over ten thousand gift stores across the United States. In 2007 Bart’s family business merged with another and grew substantially, continuing to lead the rapidly growing candle g warmer industry and now offering 140 styles across nine unique wa candle warming collections and 250 wax products. ca Candle Warmers Etc. introduced Airomé in 2016, a full line C of diffusers and 100% natural, therapeutic-grade essential oils.

Through on-going innovation, and a proven track record for high Th quality products, the Airomé brand has grown by leaps and qu bounds, and continues to grow as a leader in the essential oils bo market. ma To learn more about Candle Warmers Etc, as well as Liberty T Candle’s own Premium Heritage Jars, Homestead range and Ca Marvel Fragrances (which offers an own-brand service), get in M touch. You can visit Liberty Candles’ showroom at Butts Mill, to Butts Street, Leigh, WN7 3AE, or contact them via the details B below. be

C 01942 677 448 Call: Email: sales@libertycandles.co.uk E Visit: libertycandles.co.uk V

40 gifts today

GERMANY SINCE 1880

Steiff UK 01483 266643 info@steiff.de

Spring Fair

House of fun House of Marbles Hall 5, stand E52-F53 With over 45 years of experience as a leading supplier to the gift industry, make House of Marbles your one-stop shop for a huge range of high quality toys, games, books and must-have gifts at Spring Fair. Their latest ranges will be brimming with lots of new arrivals for customers to choose from.

Retailers wanting a fun selection of outdoor toys and games will love the company’s Active Fun collection that includes a striking Octopus Kite. Based on their best-selling Pocket Kite, this new addition comes in a handy portable bag for easy use and storage and unfolds to a massive 72cm in size with enormous multi coloured tentacles! You’ll receive a uniquely illustrated counter display to present your kites in and with a retail price of just £12.99, it’s the perfect pick up for spring and summer.

They will also be revealing a host of nostalgic pocketmoney items that have been given a modern twist to capture the attention of a whole new generation.

Look out for owl-themed kaleidoscopes, Eyeballs in Ooze and the addictive Squisha-Saurus with lots of bulging bits to reveal! You can place your orders in modest quantities and repeat as often as you like with their low carriage paid of just £150.

Call: 01626 835358 Visit: houseofmarbles.com/tradeuk

Sticks of style Classic Canes Hall 20, stand K10-L11 ‘2019 is our 30th consecutive time exhibiting at the Spring Fair, which is especially exciting for my mother Diana Porter who will have been every single time,’ says MD Charlotte Gillan. ‘This year we will be presenting our latest floral print designs, plus canes suitable for Valentine’s Day, cat lovers and collectors of unusual canes.

‘Fashions change in walking sticks as with all accessories and it is important to stay up-to-date as stick users are more fashionable than ever before.

After all, who wants to look as if they borrowed their cane from the hospital? Folding canes are increasingly popular and we have over 90 different models of these.

‘As independent retailers have to carve out reputations as specialists in order to compete against the multiples, it is really important that they have access to a wide range of products that the multiples wouldn’t be able to cope with stocking. At Classic Canes, we have everything they need to become real experts in walking sticks.’

Call: 01460 75686 Email: info@classiccanes.co.uk Visit: classiccanes.co.uk 42 gifts today

Spring Fair

Time to get busy Apples to Pears Hall 6, stand L22-M23 Apples to Pears are very excited to announce three new Gift in a Tin products for 2019. The first comes in a cute and cuddly form of George the he Giraffe. Perfect for children of all abilities, all that’s needed are a few simple stitches tto b bring i G George tto lif life.

The second is Space Station, a fantastic set of plastic play blocks to build a space rocket,, satellite and moon buggy. Complete with easy instructions, children of all ages will love this little set.

The final addition to the multi award-winning Gift in a Tin range is My Garden Play Set. Designed to get children out in the garden, they have included a trowel, gardening gloves, mini potting bags, plant markers, pencil, felt pens and a colouring picture.

Also new to Spring Fair will be the homeware range the company launched in autumn: The BollyNice Collection. Boasting beautiful, contemporary designs, each product is handmade by artisans in India from natural materials. The collection features an array of kitchen, gift and homewares such as sustainable mango wood bowls and chopping boards, storm lanterns and beautiful screen-printed organic cotton fabrics. You will also find an array of beautiful yet functional gardening gifts on the stand.

Call: 01453826759 Email: sales@applestopears.com Visit: applestopears.com

Inspired by nature Heyland & Whittle Hall 4, stand A41 Heyland & Whittle is a British soap and home fragrance manufacturer, well known for creating beautiful natural products, the traditional way. Step through the doors of the Heyland & Whittle factory and glorious sophisticated fragrances greet you

Men’s Collection • Amber Oakmoss, a rich, woody, warm fragrance for men, in a comprehensive collection of bath and body products for a complete washing experience.

• No 1 Charcoal Beard Bar – to cleanse your beard and maintain a balance of the natural oils to prevent dry skin.

• No 2 Hydrating Shampoo Bar – a luxurious blend of olive oil and goats milk delivering a deep cleansing formulation for hair and scalp.

• No 3 Exfoliating Body Bar – olive oil and goats milk to nourish and rejuvenate with poppy seeds to exfoliate and stimulate.

• Duo Beard & Shampoo Bar – a gift pack of No 1 and No 2 for the daily care of your hair and beard.

• Luxury Wash – a natural formulation for the ultimate deep clean.

Blending the subtle warmth of amber with a dash of oakmoss helps to keep the perfect mix of motivation and relaxation. Such a combination is hard to accomplish, but at Heyland & Whittle they have managed to achieve this perfect balance in the Amber Oakmoss fragrance.

Soap Trio The award-winning, handmade soaps are lovingly made with a special blend of natural essential plant oils, herbs and spices - their own unique Heyland & Whittle recipe. They use only natural colouring such as madder root, walnut leaves, nettle leaves and turmeric.

The company are well known for creating beautiful natural products the traditional way. These creamy ‘cold processed’ bars clean with a good lather, gently moisturise and smell wonderful. There are four Soap Trios in beautiful packaging, offering a versatile collection designed to suit a variety of skin types. Parabens and sulphate-free, not tested on animals and vegetarian friendly.

• Fragrant Floral Soap Trio – Lavender, Rose and Jasmine & Lilac • Fresh Start Soap Trio – Herbal Mint, Citrus Grove and Hemp & Walnut • Deep Cleansing Soap Trio – Tea Tree, Seaweed and Herbal Mint • Nurturing Care Soap Trio – Oatmeal & Spice, Queen of the Nile and Citrus Grove

Call: 01293 525825 Email: sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk Visit: heylandandwhittle.co.uk 44 gifts today

Spring Fair

Over the moon Half Moon Bay Ltd. Hall 6, stand G22-H23 With over 20 years trading and experience in the industry, Half Moon Bay is an established name in licensed giftware. Its recent acquisition of Shruti and the launch of its new publishing division, 2019 is set to be an exciting year for Half Moon Bay. Specialists in Licensed giftware, Half Moon Bay work with a raft of entertainment licences and 2019 will see the addition of thirteen new licences to its portfolio. These high-profile licences include Disney brands such as Aladdin, Dumbo, Toy Story, The Lion King and Disney Princess; Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin characters; the evergreen Paddington Bear; retro TV series Thunderbirds; the famous Beano; Warner Bros’ hit sitcom Friends; and ranges based on Marvel superheroes Captain Marvel and Guardians of the Galaxy. Additionally, extensions for popular collections such Game of Thrones, Marvel Avengers, Marvel Spider-Man, Batman, Star Wars and the award-winning Harry Potter range will also be launching.

Half Moon Bay will launch its new publishing imprint, Ice House Books in 2019. Specialising in gift books aimed at independent retailers, the launch range will include gift sets of comprising books and mugs. As well as creative own brand content, Ice House Books is working with licensors to produce titles that their existing customer base can easily add to their product offering. The initial launch titles include a Moomin Comfort Food recipe book and Thunderbirds Lady Penelope Boss Lady handbook, with additional titles following throughout the year.

Call: 01225 473873 Email: sales@halfmoonbay.co.uk Visit: halfmoonbay.co.uk

Glass class Dartington Hall 4. stand F53-G53 Dartington Crystal will feature a host of great new products at their new location at the show. With a strong track record in creating bestseller gift and tabletop concepts Dartington will unveil more winning ideas for 2019.

While Dartington Gin and Whisky glasses are in high demand, they are closely tracking the growth in rum drinking. The Rumbler and Rum Cocktail are hand made in England from 24% lead crystal. These special glasses are designed to enhance the rum drinking experience for both shorts and long rum mixes.

The latest Gin gift collection is Dartington Gin Time that features a selection of stemmed Copa glasses each with a witty gin text and presented in a smart gift tin.

Among the many new home accessories and gift collections are the eye catching Juno vases that feature a soft pastel colour palette accented by an opaque white inner surface.

With or without flowers they make a lovely addition to any contemporary home. As well as the many new elements to the Dartington collection, the stand will feature all the new designs for their associated brands of Royal Brierley Crystal, Caithness glass and John Beswick ceramic gifts.

Call: 01805 626226 Email: sales@dartington.co.uk Visit: dartington.co.uk

46 gifts today

Spring Fair

On a journey Global Journey Hall 5, stand B80-C81 Launching at the NEC Spring Fair are three very exciting new products from Global Journey. They know it’s all about quality and not quantity, so their promise to their customers, is that in 2019, they will have available very exciting, great quality, new gift products.

On display for the first time at the last Autumn fair, (with a 2019 launch) were the very popular new Hand Sanitisers, and listening to customer feedback since then, Global Journey have decided to launch with two new ranges of this product, a Christmas version and an everyday range. These are a great fun product, will help to keep winter germs at bay, and retailing ling for only £2.99 are certain to be a massive success in 2019.

Also on show on the Global Journey stand at the NEC, will be a fantastic new range of Car Air Fresheners. Bright, vibrant colours blended with a long lasting fragrance, this is yet another great gift idea retailing for only £4.99.

Their Colour Therapy Car Fresheners, consist of six different categories and sixty-four captions, with eight fresh scents. A small double sided floor display measuring only 35cm is available free of charge.

New product number three is a stunning range of A5, Retro style Notebooks, with 200 lined pages and motivational quotes on each page. Also included inside are Doodle pages, Goal Setting pages, and To Do list pages.

A product that would normally retail for £9.99 - £12.99, this is certain to be a big seller at only £7.99 RRP.

Visit: global-journey.com

On trend Puckator Hall 4, stand C10-D11 The year will shortly be coming to an end and it’s time to start looking ahead to 2019 and the excitement of the Spring Fair season. Nothing in the giftware world quite beats the dazzling display of new trends and exhilarating new products, greeting your eyes when entering the hallowed halls of the Spring Fair. Puckator have given us a sneak peak at a few of the fabulous ranges they’ll be launching in the New Year.

Following the pandemonium of Christmas and New Year’s festivities, how about some Pandamonium to look forward to? Throughout 2018 there was an influx of Kawaii culture on the high street. Courtesy of the influence from Eastern cultures, particularly South Korea and Japan, this is a trend we won’t be waving goodbye to presently. The endearing features of oversized animal heads and exaggerated characteristics have been instrumental in the development of Puckator’s new ‘Pandarama’ collection. The team will be making a big splash with their new range of Pandarific gifts this Spring. With a fantastic new collection centring on these fluffy, humorously lazy bears, Puckator are sure to charm children and adults alike. Top products include a set of bamboo tableware and a reusable bamboo lunchbox. What design could be more appropriate to grace this resilient resource than the bamboo loving panda?

Now we’re going all the way back to the

48 gifts today

1990s. It’s 20 years since the boom of the console and the creation of the big name gaming giants we all know and love today. Fashion has come full circle, everything retro is once again popular and relevant; there’s nothing more retro than an old school gaming console. Puckator have infused their current ‘Game Over’ design with trendy badge like pixelated icons. This nostalgic concept has been brought careening into present day thanks to the use of bright colours and ingenious ideas. This range is a treasury of eclectic gifts that will appeal to all, from the adults old enough to remember when graphics really were pixelated blocks, to the kids who are now playing pixelated games because it’s ironic.

If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to the trends and fads of 2018 don’t worry, not all will be leaving us so soon. Focusing on the key attraction of the Peruvian native animals, Puckator have breathed a fresh lease of life into their existing llama depictions. Filled with shocking pinks and bold blues, riotously clashing together in South American inspired patterns, these new llamas will have you ready for a fiesta.

Call: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Visit: puckator.co.uk

COME AND SEE OUR NEW COLLECTIONS AT THE SPRING FAIR

HALL 4 STAND E10-F11/F10-G11 0-F11/F10-G11 -F11/

Retail Interview - V&A

Q&A with the V&A

Last year saw the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) launch more licensed collections than ever before, making its first foray into confectionery and beverages and working with tech accessory brand Knomo to launch organisers and travel wallets. With more giftware collaborations planned for 2019, we caught up with Lauren Sizeland, head of licensing & business development, V&A, to discover more...

A

s head of licensing & business development, Lauren is responsible for the V&A’s multi-awardwinning licensing and publishing programmes. Her strategic vision and ability to evaluate and translate ideas into bespoke marketable solutions has enabled the business to achieve sustainable growth in a broad range of product categories, through working with licensees, retailers and media internationally.

About Lauren

Lauren Sizeland has more than 25 years’ experience as a leader within the arts, heritage and museum sector. Following developmental roles in retail and licensing at the Royal Academy of Arts, Science Museum Group, she joined the V&A, the world’s leading of museum of art, design and performance, in 2005.

50 gifts today

Lauren, what licences do you offer and which are most successful?

The V&A programme started over 20 years ago and today we have over 80 licensed partners worldwide. Our global programme reaches across product categories, from homeware to apparel, jewellery to stationery, with the home interiors arena a core part of our business. Our most successful European licences include handcrafted rugs, furnishing fabrics and wallpaper, bedding, ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Paper tableware and our extensive ranges of china mugs and tea sets are incredibly successful.

How important are your licensed collaborations?

As a charity, licensing provides a vital revenue for the museum, helping to fund exhibitions, research and collections of the future. All the profits from the royalties are returned to the Museum, helping to keep admission free to all.

What benefits does licensing provide?

Licensing is a key part of our strategy to increase brand awareness. We reach existing and new audiences through our licensees, helping them learn more about the Museum through our products. We also extend our brand reach through our licensees’ customer database - such as emails and social media.

Our work helps the museum to achieve its founding mission to make art available to all. Every product we create tells a story from the incredible artefacts in the archive. As the product categories are broad, the merchandise is available at a variety of price points, making our ranges accessible and allowing more people to enjoy the beautiful designs from our archives.

How do you choose the companies to work with?

We carefully select who we work with and work collaboratively with them on every aspect of how they

produce, promote and sell our licensed products. We generally look to develop long-term partnerships – we look for companies that embody similar values of innovation, high quality design and craftsmanship. We like to see clever twists and innovation in our products.

Every detail should be carefully considered, from the weight of the fabric, to the choice of special finishes.

Did you have any new gift collaborations in 2018?

2018 was another busy year for us. In terms of new licensees, Fells has launched a range of giftable confectionery and teas exclusively for John Lewis.

We continue to work with tech accessory brand Knomo, launching organisers and travel wallets in a luxe Art Deco print just in time for the Christmas gifting period. More products in our line of inspired yet functional accessories are set to launch in 2019.

Royal florist Philippa Craddock has transformed floral designs drawn from the Museum’s archive of original botanical drawings into faux floral bouquets; and British-based furniture maker Sofa Workshop has released a line of unique new shapes of upholstered furniture and exclusive fabric designs. On a smaller scale, we released a stylish new range of barware with Royal Selangor, one of our longstanding licensees - Streamline takes its inspiration from some of the V&A’s Art Deco artefacts.

‘The V&A programme started over 20 years ago and today we have over 80 licensed partners worldwide’ What giftware collaborations are planned for 2019?

An exciting new collaboration with embroidery brand DMC will be launching in 2019, consisting of a new collection of premium embroidery kits inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement. The range will feature ten cross stitch and tapestry kits, each depicting a world-famous design by one of the most celebrated artists of the era. We look forward to the year ahead with exciting product launches from Creative Tops, Wild & Wolf, and Museums & Galleries to name a few.

Which trade shows are most important to you?

Exhibiting at Brand Licensing Europe has been a key part of our strategy since 2006. The show provides a fantastic opportunity to discover and meet manufacturer and retailers, opening doors to new product categories and raising brand awareness. Home interiors is a core category for us, so we collaborate with our licensees to exhibit at leading interior design show Decorex International. Spring Fair, Autumn Fair and Top Drawer are also key events for several of our licensees.

What are your most popular giftware licences?

Creative Tops continues to be one the V&A’s most successful and established licensees. In 2018, we brought two very diverse tabletop ranges to market in 2018, the Cole Collection and the whimsical Edward Lear Nonsense Alphabet. Our best-selling Alice in Wonderland range was also expanded to include glassware and a ‘his and hers’ gift set. Our giftware range of home and gardening tools with Wild & Wolf remains popular. Together, we have developed a range exclusively for the US market, expanding our offering to include stationery and gifting. gifts today 51

Spring Fair

Making it personal Personalised Memento Company Hall 4, stand E90-F91 Personalised anniversary gifts The Personalised Memento Company are launching a fresh and modern range of anniversary gifts at this year’s Spring Fair. The range features a variety of designs, with both classic and quirky options available. Their fashion-forward Cotton Anniversary cushion is a great example of this, as it details the amount of the time couple has been together, down to the day!

PMC’s full range of personalised gifts are all made to order and can be drop-shipped straight to your customer. Visit their stand at Spring Fair to view the full range.

Personalised Valentine’s Day gifts Share the love with a personalised gift from The Personalised Memento Company! Their new range of personalised Valentine’s Day gifts feature something to suit all tastes and styles. The new Confetti Hearts range is a modern twist on the classic Valentine’s look, resulting in a range of gifts that are perfect for any recipient in love.

As with many of PMC’s personalised gifts, their new Valentine’s range is available for drop-shipping on rapid lead times, making these gifts the perfect way to start selling with PMC. Visit their recently revamped trade website to apply for your account today.

Personalised Mother’s Day gifts PMC’s brand new ‘You’re Like a Mum to Me’ range is a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day with an alternative twist. The design is also available for Dads, creating the perfect gift for stepparents, guardians and other parental figures in a child’s ild’s life.

These adorable designs are available on a range of PMC’s best-selling personalised gifts, many of which can be produced and drop-shipped on a next day service to your customer.

These include ceramic mugs, cards and chocolate bars, which are all ideal for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

Email: sales@ personalisedmemento.co.uk Visit: personalisedmemento.co.uk

52 gifts today

Spring Fair

Scent-sational Ashleigh & Burwood Hall 4, stand B10-C11 Ashleigh & Burwood are set to showcase some exciting new additions at Spring Fair 2019. Their popular The Scented Home collection is expanding to include a new range of multi-wick Scented Candles.

Housed in decorative tin vessels and available in eight UK-made fragrances, the candles are hand-poured using a vegan-friendly refined mineral wax blend, and use Ashleigh & Burwood’s ‘megathrow’ fragrance release system, to match the impact and quality standard that customers know and trust in The Scented Home.

In addition, new double-sized 300ml refills in eight of The Scented Home’s best-selling fragrances will be adding depth to the collection’s comprehensive diffuser offering.

New large 500ml Reed Diffusers in three top fragrances bring value and volume as they join the collection, giving ng loyal customers their favourite scents in larger, ger, longer-lasting ng sizes and providing greater choice.

The vibrant Wild Things collection welcomes three unique new designs, each of which will be available as a Reed Diffuser, Luxury Scented Candle, Diffuser Refill and Candle Refill. Pandamonium, Rhino Saw Us and You’re Having a Giraffe are the quirky names for the latest animal inspired designs. Vessels carrying this season’s asson’s limited edition designs will also carry a unique edition numberr highlighting their collectability.

In fragrance introductions, citrus takes centre stage with zesty Bergamot & Oud added to Lamp Fragrance, refreshing Lime & Basilil to Lamp Fragrance and The Scented Home and uplifting Orange Grove to The Scented Home. All contain a citrusy element, yet each h one is individual thanks to some unexpected pairings that make for fabulous new fragrances for 2019.

Call: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk Visit: ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

54 gifts today

60 BRAND NEW PUZZLES TO MAKE THE WINTER NIGHTS MORE ENJOYABLE!

VISIT US AT SPRING FAIR, HALL 5 STAND K64!

OR CONTACT US ON: Telephone: 01707-289289 Email: uk.saleshotline@jumbo.eu -80%2 *,)76 72'$< -DQ LQGG

Spring Fair

Perfect patterns Dunoon Hall 9, stand F18 Dunoon will be introducing over 250 new mug patterns over their vast English Made Fine Bone China mug range. The full range of 1000 mug patterns, spread over 15 mug shapes, will be on display at Birmingham Spring Fair. New patterns include:

Skye Rosabunda/Agapanthus Pretty pink roses and mid-blue Agapanthus painted by artist Michelle Aubourg are featured on this oversized cosy ‘Skye’ mug shape that is proving very successful since its introduction last year.

Lomond Masai Using 22ct gold, this African tribal influenced design by ceramic artist David Broadhurst develops the expanding and popular geometric patte patterned range from Dunoon.

Cairngorm Splosh!

A set of six bright bold mug designs by Dunoon’s designer Caroline Bessey builds on her very successful h Warm Hearts and W Hot Spots range.

H Featured here on the F best-selling 480ml b sized Cairngorm shape, si these are bound to brighten th your day. yo

Ca 01785817414 Call: Email: Em sal sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk Visit: dunoonmugs.co.uk Vis

Go organic

Vanilla Blanc

Hall 6-7, stand T43

Organic Coconut Wax Double Wood Wick Candles are the late st addition to the 2019 release as part of ‘La Collection Apothicaire’ . Three sublime blends inspired by the serenity experienced during a soo thing spa.

Hand-blended with org anic coconut wax that dispenses unp aralleled scent throw, strong enough to fill large spaces.

All the essential oils use d are sourced from Surrey Do wns fields.

English Grosso Lavend er is a notable feature throughout the collection.

Natural double wood wic ks are used to simulate the relaxing burning of a gentle wood fire.

Call: 0333 772 0673 Email: info@vanillablanc. co.uk Visit: vanillablanc.co.uk 56 gifts today

SDW3619_GiftsTodayFebruaryAd.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

10/01/2019

10:30

Spring Fair

What a puzzle Gibsons Games Hall 5, stand E30-F31

On trend Shruti Hall 7, stand F04-G03 Half Moon Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trend-led gift, home and fashion brand Shruti is creating new ranges with Shrutiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing partners, as well as securing partnerships with new licensors. The new Planet Cat range celebrates cats and cat lovers alike with colourful illustrations by Angie Rozelaar. Shruti is also expanding its RHS range with additions in a beautiful new Irises and Hellebores collection, while its RSPB range highlights puffins and other coastal birds to raise awareness for the organisation and the birds they protect.

Products from all of Half Moon Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s divisions will be exhibited at various trade shows throughout the year, and new ranges will be launched for the autumn/winter season.

Call: 01225 473873 Email: sales@halfmoonbay.co.uk Visit: halfmoonbay.co.uk 58 gifts today

Gibsons are looking forward to attending Spring Fair once again in February. 2019 is especially important for them as it will be their centenary year of trading as a British, family business.

This momentous occasion will be celebrated by showcasing their brand-new product ranges on stand, as well as thanking customers for working with them over the last century. Gibsons will be hosting drinks on their stand from 5pm on Monday 4 February, so make sure you come along and raise a glass.

Gibsons are excited to be launching their new fast and frantic dice game Zonkers at Spring Fair.

The aim of the game is to match your dice with the dice graphics on the cards. When the cards are filled with dice or when a player places their last die, the round ends and the player with the most dice on a card wins. Unused dice are worthless and when the deck of cards runs out, the player who has collected the most cards is the winner.

Gibsons will be holding a Zonkers competition on stand for the duration of the show, so make sure you swing by to be in with the chance of winning discount off your next order.

Gibsons will also be releasing an exciting collection of design-led jigsaw puzzles especially for adults. Available in six quirky designs that have been specifically selected*, the puzzles will be presented in a smaller box and shrink wrap will be lost to avoid excess plastic waste making them more environmentally friendly. Designed and manufactured in the UK from the thickest board available on the jigsaw puzzle market, the collection complements the mindfulness movement as puzzling reduces stress by occupying and engaging the mind.** *In a poll of 139 prospective puzzlers, the respondents voted for their favourite designs that were then selected for this range. ** 62% of respondents aged 18-54 feel that their mental health/well-being is either as important or more important than their physical health/wellbeing.

Call: 020 8661 8866 Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk Visit: gibsonsgames.co.uk

Social Media - Ross Hewitt

Video marketing 101 Video is the king of content and, with mobile devices what they are today, making them is easily within the grasp of any retailer or brand…

B

Ross Hewitt, Managing Director of Secret Pie and author of ‘Savvy Social Media’. Ross began his digital marketing career in 1998 when social networking was something you only did in a pub. He set up Secret Pie in 2010 and has been helping clients get found and loved online ever since. www.secretpie.co.uk | Ross@secretpie.co.uk | 01904 410027 | Twitter: @Secret_Pie

60 gifts today

efore you start buying tripods and make up and one of those fabric director’s chairs you need to set your strategy. This goes back to understanding your customers and your audience and having genuine insight into who you want to attract.

How can video content draw them closer to you and encourage engagement with your business?

What questions can you answer?

What content is already prevalent and sewn up by others? And, more importantly, what content is hard to find yet would be very useful to your audience?

Maybe it is a 40-second video that shows how to properly use that product, and you know it solves a problem for many because you always get asked about it on your Facebook page. Perhaps, for retailers, a member of staff giving a detailed demonstration of a product or picking out their top gifts is a new way to get your store found and loved online.

But making one video is not a strategy, and neither will it get you found or sought after. You need to be consistent and you need to start as you mean to go on. At least one video a month for the next four to six months is realistic and will give you a great ‘test & learn’ environment to gauge whether video is something that can move your marketing and audience engagement up a few notches.

Ideas for content will come a lot easier than you might imagine if you give it a little bit of thought. How about customer video testimonials?

Can you tempt someone who can clearly string a sentence together to get in front of the camera and big you up? Are you going to an event

that warrants a bit of film time that you can share…Autumn Fair was a great example in recent months, and maybe Spring Fair is a good forthcoming opportunity for you to put some ideas into practice? Maybe a video interview with someone we don’t normally hear from…a product designer for example, or a buyer?

“

How can video content draw them closer to you and encourage engagement with your business?

”

Oh, and retailers, there is a rich seam of video content readily available from the brands you likely stock, but the uptake is staggeringly minimal from you all as a collective so time to start leveraging that as soon as possible.

When you have a brainstormed list of videos then separate the wheat from the chaff and put the final list into a calendar and give yourself plenty of time to get them filmed and finished.

And onto the videos themselves.

You need to make them as polished as possible. We’re not talking Hollywood standard, but one example is if someone is talking on the video

then the viewer needs to be able to hear them, so make sure you have a microphone that picks up the chatter.

Buy a tripod; it makes for a much better video than a tired arm shaky-cam effect. Film your video somewhere that is well lit. Get the people in it to smile, even just a little bit, now and again…it makes a huge difference.

Aim to grab the viewer’s attention in the first five to ten seconds as that is crucial to keeping them watching and make sure you have a very clear and obvious call to action at the end of the video. Don’t leave people hanging.

Do make sure you watch your final video through a few times and get some people you trust to be honest to give you their verdict before you publish it. If it is not right or has some mistakes in it then, sorry, do it again as it needs to be as accurate or smooth as possible. It’s a key piece of promotion and potentially will reach a lot of relevant people so make a good first impression.

Video hosting platforms such as YouTube and Facebook’s video service give you the opportunity to upload your own thumbnail image.

This is a vital part of someone’s decision to watch a video or not.

Think about your own visits to YouTube – how often does the thumbnail image play a part in whether you click play? A random scene from the video is not a good thumbnail and you get a very limited choice when you upload your footage online so make a great image that you can upload that will increase your chances of drawing in viewers.

Finally, when the final cut is uploaded don’t forget to share it as far and wide as possible…you want your work to be seen don’t you? See you at the BAFTAs…

Spring Fair

Designed in Derbyshire!

Langs Hall 4, stand E50-F51 Did you know that nearly all of Langsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products are exclusively designed in Derbyshire by their in-house creative team to bring their quirky and original gifts to life? You will be able to meet the design team on their stand and see the original paintings that now feature on their products, including their newly launched greetings cards, all printed in the UK. Spring is definitely in the air with over 25 brand new ranges with some additions to their most popular gift ranges. They are really proud and extremely excited to share with you the launch of their second seasonal catalogue for spring/summer. This will be available on their stand.

One of the winning lines from last year was the bank of mum and dad hanging sign.

This year they have a new addition with a fun twist on the original this is sure to be a winner!

Customers are always at the forefront of their collections and they are more than happy to look at bespoke designs that are unique to you.

All their new collections will be on display at the NEC and the team will be on hand to help with any questions and show you around. Christmas 2019 will also be on display and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great time to get this ordered ready for delivery from July onwards. So come and see the products on their stand, great designs, great prices and a great team!

Ways to shop: visit their stand, shop on line or get in touch to make an appointment with one of their agents. You can also follow Langs on social media - @lang_and _son to see more of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening at the company.

Call: 01332 340927 Visit: richardlang.co.uk

Survive & thrive Wild Things Hall 4, stand C61 In 2019 crystals will be sparkling away along with freely flowing prosecco on the Wild Things stand at Spring Fair. Founded 35 years ago, Wild Things will be celebrating in style. Visit their stand and receive a free goody bag and enter into the prize draw.

New products on show will include additions to the classic Crystal Fantasy window ornaments range - British designed and made, incorporating mirror-bright metals and embellished with crystals from Swarovski. People love how they make rainbows when the sun shines through them.

Designs include these gorgeous toucans and swans. They are designed to be displayed on their brilliantly lit display booth, which launched in 2018 and became a game changer with Wild Things and customers alike reporting massive sales boosts. Indeed Wild Things have such confidence in its selling power that they will be giving it away free subject to a minimum stock order at the show.

The latter part of last year saw new additions to the range bees, flamingos, foxes, sheep and penguins, all of which have become instant best sellers. 2018 saw a rebrand and, in January, Wild Things will be launching a brand new all bells and whistles website. The fun never stops at Wild Things!

Call: 01392211268 Email sales@wildthingsgifts.com Visit: wildthingsgifts.com 62 gifts today

A major new license launching at Spring Fair 2019

The TATE collection features greetings cards in two sizes alongside a range of gift stationery. Our NEW catalogue is available now, NEW catalogue is available or see the fullOur collection at Spring Fair: STANDnow.

N16â&#x20AC;&#x201C;P17, Hall 3 See the full collection at Spring Fair:

STAND N16â&#x20AC;&#x201C;P17, Hall 3

E: sales@mgml.co.uk Gifts_Today_FPage_Ad_Feb.indd 1

museumsgalleries.co.uk

Tel: 01373 462165

Home of the finest arts brands 07/01/2019 13:56

Spring Fair

Lamp light Life of luxury

Mandarin Arts

Global Luxury Brands

Reminiscent of the nishikigoi carp fish of Hokusai, the new blue and white lamp is decorated with koi carp, waves and plum blossom and has an off-white pleated lampshade. Koi carp originally came from China where the fish is greatly revered, often seen as an incarnation of a dragon. There is a Chinese saying, ‘The carp has leapt through the dragon’s gate’ which is used to describe someone who has worked very hard and been rewarded with success, such as a student passing his exams with distinction. The lamp has a small, lidded pot of a similar design to accompany it.

With the Chinese New Year of the Boar approaching (5 February 2019), there is hardly a better time to explore the lighting and extensive giftware and artefact ranges, all of which reflect the many dynasties of Chinese history.

In 2018 Mandarin Arts celebrated its 30th anniversary, thirty years in which China has changed so much in so many areas, now sitting alongside the United States at the top of the World GDP ranking.

Hall 4, stand H55 Global Luxury Brands are delighted to have been appointed the exclusive agent for Goebel in the UK. This iconic German brand will sit really well with the other established giftware brands that GLB already work with. Many of the ranges are well known in the market but there is much more available which GLB will be showcasing at Spring Fair.

The pop art range Britto is bang on trend and has some stunning designs that the company think will have great appeal in the UK. Although the Christmas decorations are only just down it is time to be thinking of Christmas 2019 and the range of festive items available from Goebel is really extensive. A selection will be shown at Spring Fair and many more will be available.

The De Rosa range has established a loyal following since its introduction into the UK in 2014. The range continues to grow with new pieces being added which broaden the appeal. After the huge success of unicorns over the past few years there have been many requests for flamingos. Although a subject to make many ceramic sculptors cringe the skilled team at De Rosa have certainly not shied away from the challenge and the results are beautiful. As usual every piece is hand carved and hand painted in a fine ceramic body before being gilded, again by hand. As well as the pink feather friend they have, among others, new cats and elephants to add to the range.

Hall 4, stand F70

Visit: mandarinarts.co.uk

Call: 1538 807780 Email: srw@glb.uk.com Visit: globalluxurybrands.co.uk

Koi carp crazy Temerity Jones Hall 4, stand G40-H41 After the success of 2018’s fishy ornaments, Temerity Jones have gone koi-carp crazy for spring/summer 2019. With shades of jade-green, gold and blue with highlights of goldfish orange, they’ve created a range that takes in beautiful Japanese-inspired koi wind chimes, high-gloss glass-printed wall art and a set of delicate ginger jars. They’ve also used the designs across textiles and a set of four matching placemats.

64 gifts today

Call: 01992 807477 Email: sales@temerityjones.com Visit: temerityjones.com

HEYLAND & WHITTLE HOME

SPRING FAIR

3rd - 7th February

STAND 4A41

01293 525 825 heylandandwhittle.co.uk sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk Follow us

Spring Fair

Pretty paper Ambiente Europe Hall 3, stand K01 Ambiente Europe are one of the leading European producers of printed paper napkins and coordinate accessories based in South East Holland.

They produce two major collections each year covering many seasonal events such as Easter and Christmas and the designs lend themselves to virtually any occasion or celebration. Designs range from contemporary to traditional in colour and style.

Ambiente Europe are suppliers to a variety of retailers including garden centres, department stores, giftware and kitchen hardware shops. Their napkins are made in 3 ply/ FSC-certified paper in packs of 20 in sizes 25x25-33x 33-40 x40 and packed in outers of 12.

In the collection they have a large range of plain coloured embossed napkins that match many of the prints.

The coordinate collection includes many accessories including candles, matches, handkerchiefs, porcelain mugs, teapot, cushions, trays and the ever-popular napkin holders in over 20 designs and sizes. This year they are introducing two very exciting new products, bamboo travel mugs and placemats, in a range of designs all matching the napkins.

Ambiente Europe also offer a range of free sales aids available to all customers so they can maximise their sales of the collection. They will be making special offers to new customers at Spring Fair.

Call: 07956-424482 Email: richard@ambproducts.co.uk Visit: ambiente.eu

Class glass D & J Glassware Hall 4, stand A58 D & J Glassware are looking forward to another busy year with many new products scheduled to be launched during 2019. The popular colourful fused glass animals are well known for making folk smile and the already extensive collection will see the introduction of several new designs.

They are renowned for their quality handcrafted mouth blown glassware. As the first UK company to introduce the British market to the stunning Tree of Life balls, their designs have a real wow factor. The Friendship collections, tea light holders and beautiful vases are proven sellers and will be joined by exciting new products.

Not to be missed are the ever-growing home fragrance collections, using great quality British fragrances. The eye-catching glass globes are real statement pieces and the re-fill oils are firm favourites. New glassware designs and fragrances will make their debuts at the Spring Fair. The collection is complemented by wax melt burners, Pot Pourri and also, new for 2019, Room Sprays.

David & Jocelyne look forward to welcoming you to their stand.

Call: 01953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com Visit: dandjglassware.co.uk

66 gifts today

Liberty Candles have been appointed the exclusive distributor in the UK & Ireland for Candle Warmers Etc, and will be showing the range at Spring Fair.

Hall 4, stand D39 Liberty Candles & Marvel Fragrances Company Ltd. www.libertycandles.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 01942 677 448

Spring Fair

Fine art Museums & Galleries Hall 3, stand N16-P17 Museums & Galleries are known in the Industry as the ‘Home of the Finest Arts Brands’, and with that in mind are delighted to announce they are working with TATE, with whom they have secured the licence for cards and stationery.

They are thrilled to head back to the NEC for Spring Fair, and will be launching and showcasing three new ranges within the Gifts & Stationery Collection.

Pencil Sets are a new product format for M&G. There will be eight designs, featuring licences from V&A, Natural History Museum, BBC Earth and the world-renowned 20th-century painter LS Lowry.

Sketch Books are a brand-new premium edition to the stationery range. They take the same size as the Grande Journals but offer a heavier weight unlined pure white paper, which make them ideal for drawing and sketching.

The hard cover and varnish detail, along with the foil/colour paper edging are bound to make these a new must-have for 2019.

Museums & Galleries are also helping you to travel in style by launching Bamboo Travel Mugs. The reusable bamboo mugs feature food-safe bamboo composite bases and lids with thermal grips (delivered inside the mug). The products will feature 12 designs from M&G’s partners including V&A, Natural History Museum and The British Library.

These will be the ‘must-have’ eco-friendly travel mugs of 2019 Come and visit them at stand 3N16-P17 and view the new products in the flesh.

The team would love to see you and promise that you won’t be disappointed.

Call: 01373 462165 Email: sales@mgml.co.uk Visit: museumsgalleries.co.uk

68 gifts today

GIFTS TODAY ADVERT 2019.indd 1

10/01/2019 12:42:53

Spring Fair

Feeling festive SiL Hall 4 stand E10-F11/F10-G11 Christmas Eve Box With the Christmas Eve Box trend stronger than ever, SIL have created a full range that covers all angles for this lovely new seasonal tradition. Starring a marvellously mischievous Christmas Eve elf character, who’s come to check if children have been naughty or nice before Santa’s arrival, the collection takes in a whole heap of ways to keep the little ones busy on the Night Before. As well as a pair of cheeky little elf figures in red and green who’ll be keeping an eye on the tykes, there are ‘I’m watching you!’ plaques, special door stops to appear on the day, sticker sets to keep them busy and a pair of magical mugs, all of them guaranteed to make the day extra-exciting. You’ll also find stockings and sacks and some sweet gift baskets that they’ll be hanging up ready for the big day.

Gingerbread At the heart of homeware experts SIL’s Christmas range is this lovely collection of all things Gingerbread. With an emphasis on hearth and home, it heads straight for the kitchen but is sure to spread a warm glow of Christmas cheer all through the house. All emblazoned with a charming traditional Christmas motif, there are cake tins, cookie jars, heart-shaped serving dishes and a special Christmas plate that allows the little ones to write their own message to Santa. Napkins and drinking jars will give the perfect finishing touch to Christmas meals, and there’s plenty more for the big day, too. You’ll find gift boxes and bags that will make wrapping a doddle, and even

a delightful candle with a special Gingerbread & Spice fragrance that will spread joy to the world and possibly beyond.

Festive dogs There’s only one thing better than dogs, and that’s dogs and Christmas! Enter SIL’s brilliant new seasonal collection, starring a pair of canine cuties: Dachshund Through The Snow and Christmas Pugs & Kisses. They’re present in cuddly plush toy form, both wrapped up warm in winter coats, and also in classic cartoons across an array of products that will be transforming homes this December. Wall plaques for each of the merry mischiefmakers lead the way, with an array of beautiful gift bags and boxes in stunning pastel shades that could turn the smallest token into a gift to remember. Along with all these goodies are a matching pair of fragrances that come in both candle and diffuser form, as cute a package as can be imagined.

It’s the perfect range for any dog-lover – which means, of course, everyone you know!

Call: 01992 718033 Email: sales@silplc.com Visit: silplc.com

Your village is our village Village Candle Hall 5, Stand D40-E41 Village is introducing a Fun Fantasy Fragrance collection to bring a playful and mystical fragrance experience to consumers and retailers alike. Escape into a world full of glitter, sparkle, unicorns and even mermaids. This range offers a real point of difference to the customer and encapsulates the current trend of all things mystical. Offered in two sizes, large and new petite, in five fun fragrances: Mermaid Tales, Forbidden Forest, Unicorn Dreams, Magic Spell and Fairy Dust.

Fairy Dust Plum, raspberry, cedarwood, amber With sprinkles of rich plum, raspberries, cedarwood and warm amber – this mystical dust swirls over you, lifting you to fly away with the fairies.

Unicorn Dreams Lemon, red berry, lime Magical dreams conjure up sweet and fruity notes of tart lemon, strawberry wishes, hot pink candied cherries and lime confetti as your inner unicorn delicately prances and softly descends into the pastel forest.

Forbidden Forest Pine, herbaceous, cedarwood, patchouli, smoke At first glance the bright and cheery pine forest invites and then transforms into a mystical world where gnarly twists of cedarwood, eucalyptus clouds, dark fireside smoke and drifts of patchouli mysteriously mingle to capture your spirit and darken your mood in the hidden forbidden forest.

70 gifts today

Mermaid Tales Aquatic, sea salt, dewy green, muguet, cyclamen, musk Mermaids mystify in aquatic notes as they dance in the sea in soft movements gathering tiny treasures of forbidden apple, melon and citrus swirls. Swimming through the sea-salted water and dewy greens, the day turns to night and invites all creatures to this delightful dance amongst the glittering goddess mermaids and coral maze.

Magic Spell Enchanted apple, blue hibiscus, gardenia, clean musk, ocean water accord Cast a spell as this magical effect invokes a vision of enchanted apples, dark blue hibiscus and a warm splash of ocean water. This unexpected chant enlightens and uplifts through innocent petals of white gardenia and a subtle velvet curtain of clean musk that bewitches your journey of intrigue and taboo light.

Email: enquiry@ villagecandle.com Visit: villagecandle.co.uk

ANNIVERSARY *LIWV 7RGD\ (4 %HDG] IS 6SULQJ )DLU 287/,1(' LQGG

Spring Fair

Heritage beauty Fruity Palette Miss Milly Hall 19, Stand C18 Riding high from a fantastic 2018, Miss Milly, the British brand for gorgeous, colourful jewellery and scarves, is kicking off the year with a stunning array of bold designs featuring hearts, flowers, leaves and abstract and geometric designs. With tropical and citrus colours at the forefront of the palette, the collection is the most eye-catching to date and still as reasonably priced as ever. On-trend coral and watermelon colour combinations feature heavily, and the necklace styles range from elegantly delicate to dramatically statement. The new scarves aren’t shying away from boldness either with fuchsia pink, yellow and turquoise attractively staking their claim. Come and see this fantastic mix of beautifully crafted, stand-out jewellery and soft, tactile scarves.

‘Despite Brexit trying its hardest to scupper the exchange rate and limit our design scope, we’re delighted with the new collection and have used imaginative colour combos and various resin finishes to offer a fresh, striking range for SS19,’ says Sarah Watmore, the brand owner.

‘We consistently focus on what the colour trends are and what sells best for our customers, and work hard to bring the two happily together, always with an eye on the final selling price.’

If you’ve not yet taken the plunge, Miss Milly’s minimum order is only £100 and they’re more than happy to put a starter pack together for you. As Sarah says: ‘It’s in our mutual interest to supply you with best-sellers and co-ordinating pieces, working to any budget. We have a very loyal customer base for our ranges that are different and combine bold design with everyday wear-ability, and we offer a friendly, efficient customer service.’

Branded packaging and display stands are also available. And there are sales agents carrying full sets of samples for some areas too. New collections available to order online from early January.

Call: 01905 622509 Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk Visit: missmilly.co.uk y

72 gifts today

Sea Gems Ltd Hall 18, stand P04-Q05 Sea Gems Cornwall, a family run company with over 35 years experience in design- led jewellery and gifts, is launching brand new and exciting collections for spring 2019.

Their ‘Silver Origins’ boutique jewellery brand features contemporary handcrafted 925 sterling silver, cleverly combining high polished and textured surfaces together with gold vermeil or semi-precious stones enhancing the beauty, spirit and story of each piece. Designed in Cornwall, you will discover striking organic designs, the intricate beachcomber range, delicate botanical and wildlife designs and fun, whimsical motifs that celebrate love and life.

The ‘Celtic Lands’ silver collection evokes and celebrates their rich heritage with timeless motifs and elaborate knot work. Launching new designs that give fresh look and feel to the already successful brand. The art of fine enamelling, with its fusion of vibrant colours creates truly unique jewellery and gifts in their Mackintosh, Celtic and nature ranges. Inspired gift ranges include pens, bookmarks, compact mirrors, pillboxes and scarf-rings.

Call: 01736 335840 Email: sales@seagems.co.uk Visit: seagems.co.uk

to new season SAY

H E L LO

DISCOVER OUR WORLD AT K A T I E L O X T O N . C O M | J O M A J E W E L L E R Y. C O M

Spring Fair

Spring fling Alexander Thurlow Hall 19-20, stand B07 Alexander Thurlow is an enduring British family business thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passionate about jewellery and scarves with a special emphasis on poppies and bespoke products. They are major suppliers to the gift and cultural retail trade.

Alexander Thurlow will be launching their new spring flower range of jewellery. These wonderful and exclusive designs make a great gift for all ages. They will also be happy to talk to you about their bespoke jewellery and scarf service that has been a great hit with many large retailers.

The company are also launching a new purple poppy to commemorate the animals that were injured and lost their lives in conflict. According to the Animals in War Memorial Fund, eight million horses died in the First World War. Dogs were relied upon for duties including detecting mines and digging out bomb victims, while 100,000 pigeons were used to carry messages.

Call: 020 8766 6466 Visit: alexanderthurlow.com

Catch the light Joe Davies Hall 5, stand D50/E51 Following the success of their 925 by Equilibrium collection of sterling silver jewellery, Joe Davies will be launching a brand new silver range which incorporates stunning Paua Shell into each piece.

The mesmerising iridescent colouration of Paua Shell is utterly beautiful when combined with sterling silver. Swirling patterns of blues, purples, pinks and greens that move with the light, no two pieces are completely alike. Packaged in luxurious foiled boxes, this stunning collection really does stand out from the crowd.

Ordering from Joe Davies couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easier with their signature little and often ordering system and their low minimum order value of just ÂŁ100 for free delivery.

Call: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: joedavies.co.uk

74 gifts today

What a gem!

Carrie Elspeth Hall 19, stand C20-D21 Spring has sprung at Carrie Elspeth who are delighted to be celebrating 20 years of trading this year. The established Welsh brand has created another on trend collection that is sure to get your tills ringing. Still proudly producing amazing, affordable and quality designs in the UK, spring sees the launch of one of their most colourful collections yet. Crammed with luscious semi-precious gems and gorgeous glass Carrie Elspethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spring range has something to make your customers happy whatever the occasion. Gorgeous packaging and full point of sale items are available. Get in touch now for your full-colour spring catalogue.

Discover the magic of Gemstone bracelets After the huge success of their well-being range of jewellery, Carrie Elspeth have expanded upon this by adding thirty different Gemstone bracelets to the collection. Looking after your emotional and physical self has never been more important and it is said that wearing the right semi-precious stone at the right time can encourage balance and wellbeing. Perfect for collecting and great for stacking, these beautiful charm bracelets come with an organza gift bag and a card explaining the properties of the semi-precious stones. At the time of going to press this range had been shortlisted in Gift of the Year, fingers crossed for the new round of judging. Feel-good jewellery at its finest and all lovingly handmade in Wales! Get in touch now for your full-colour spring catalogue.

SPRING FAIR NEC 3RD-7TH FEBRUARY

HALL 18 STAND P04-Q05

Call: 01446 771271 Visit: carrieelspeth.com

SEAGEMS.CO.UK T: +44(0)1736 335840 E: sales@seagems.co.uk Š A ll des igns prot ect ed by S e a G e m s C o py ri g h t & D e si g n Ri g h t .

gifts today 75

Spring Fair

Back to the UK Colonial Hall 4, stand C41 At TUHC, they try to bring the market superior quality and design, along with strong brands, whilst staying true to what their customers expect. Consequently, they are very excited to bring the Iconic American brand Colonial back to the UK. Colonial strive to make a candle that does more than light up a room; a candle that brightens your day and makes every single moment something to celebrate, no matter how big or small. Whether giving Colonial Candle as a gift, or buying a gift for yourself to enjoy, their mission is to make people happy.

They will be re-launching Colonial at Spring Fair.

Alongside the Classic Oval range, they have on offer an exciting new collection of Tumblers, Jars and Tapers. As always, the Americans know how to present a seasonal and special occasion selection. They have chosen a range from this that they feel will suit the UK Market and will truly enhance the overall offering.

Illuminate lives and celebrate everyday with Colonial Candle’s unique fragrances available all year round.

Their trademarked Oval Shaped Jars allow for a bigger wax pool to enhance fragrance performance and ensure the cleanest, most even burn possible. Two 100% cotton, woven wicks extend the candle’s burn time and quickly permeate the air to encompass your room with fragrance.

Colonial Candle use 40% stronger fragrance oils than the average candle, along with that, the highest quality craftsmanship and trend-forward colours they believe will meet their customers’ every need.

Available in today’s most popular colours and with over 20 core fragrances across several different formats, their uncompromising attention to quality sets Colonial Candle apart from all the rest. Colonial Candles are made in an eco-friendly facility in the USA.

Visit: unitedbrandsltd.com

76 gifts today

Design delights A Gift From The Gods Hall 3, stand Q16-R19 The design-led accessories brand are making their long-awaited return to Spring Fair. And visitors can expect this year’s AGFG collection to be a showstopper, with statement pieces sitting alongside a brand-new collection for spring/summer 2019.

Design-led jewellery, stationery, fashion accessories, cosmetic bags, and homewares will be on display with distinctive graphic prints, textiles, and metallics taking centre stage. Their spring/summer 2019 collection is bigger and more beautiful than ever with extended ranges of stationery, loungewear, fashion accessories, gifts, and tote bags all making their trade debut for 2019.

Defined by the four distinctive design stories that make up the central pillars of the AGFG brand, the spring/summer 19 range is all about freshness and vibrancy. And this year, AGFG will be showing off their softer side with a new range of fabric tote bags and pouches that explore the beauty and versatility of textiles.

A Gift From The Gods do more than create beautiful accessories. They create them at a good price point, allowing buyers from small businesses and large to add a little sparkle to their product lines without breaking the bank. This balance of affordability and luxury combined with AGFG’s unique aesthetic has proven a hit with buyers around the world.

Email: chloe@agiftfromthegods.com Visit: wholesale.agiftfromthegods.com

SPRING FAIR NEC 3RD-7TH FEBRUARY

HALL 18 STAND P04-Q05

SEAGEMS.CO.UK T: +44(0)1736 335840 E: sales@seagems.co.uk © Al l des i g ns pr otected by S ea Gem s C op y ri g h t & D es i g n Ri g h t .

gifts today 77

Spring Fair

Get licensed Pyramid International Hall 5, stand J66-J71 Pyramid International are proud to be exhibiting again at this year’s Spring Fair. One of their fabulous new licences is the Netflix phenomenon that is Stranger Things. Launched in September last year, Pyramid are thrilled to now be able to present a growing range that includes a doormat and stationery items as well as heat-change and metallic-finished mugs. These will sit alongside their great range of UK-produced everyday mugs, posters and wall art, resulting in an excellent retail prospect that reflects the broad appeal of the show.

Pyramid have also developed new collections for the ever-popular Harry Potter franchise. This refreshed range includes debossed, foil premium notebooks for each of the famous houses, an espresso set inspired by potion bottles and a magical glow-inthe-dark Patronus mug. They are also excited to be displaying for the first time a number of new formats including tech stickers, luggage tags, and an eco-friendly travel mug as well as a collection of other new pieces.

Call: 0116 284 3640 Visit: pyramidinternational.com

Doing the rounds Carousel Calendars Hall 3, stand Q30-R31

True blue Blue Eyed Sun Hall 4, stand 4A01 Blue Eyed Sun are launching two gorgeous ranges of handmade cards as part of their recent deal with Italian greetings card sensations Origamo. With 32 designs in each, the first range uses the beautifully intricate handmade art of quilling and the second is an exciting collection of handmade pop-up cards, some of which take up to 40 minutes each to produce and have been massively successful in Italy.

They have a host of other exciting products, including their ecofriendly BambooCups, SlideCups and BambooFriends products from Chic.mic and new collections of lifestyle products being unveiled at the show.

Call: 01273 823003 Visit: blueeyedsun.co.uk

The range of regional calendars from Carousel Calendars is the largest available in the UK market for 2020, offering a collection that covers all major counties, cities, and areas of interest across Britain. The range was expanded considerably for 2019 with the addition of all-new products and the acquisition of an exciting licence, and will continue to grow for 2020 as more locations are added to provide the most comprehensive choice for customers. Along with standard places such as Oxfordshire, Birmingham, Newcastle and similar, the collection has added more niche products such as Yorkshire Dales National Park, Canals & Waterways, Shakespeare’s Country, The Wirral, and Shropshire Hills, among many more.

As part of Carousel’s commitment to sustainability, the Plastic Free Packaging Range has been developed this year as the publishers’ first step towards reducing plastic from their calendar ranges. Their ultimate aim is to make all of their packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025 or earlier.

These wall calendars are packaged with unlaminated, printed-board outer envelopes to help eliminate the plastic packaging and do away with the cardboard stiffener.

Call: 01392 826482 Visit: carouselcalendars.com 78 gifts today

On fire!

Flame Tree Publishing Hall 3, stand N31 Flame Tree have signed a new licence agreement with the Frida Kahlo Corporation for 2020 calendars, diaries and social stationery. They have also signed a new agreement with Historic Royal Palaces for two wall calendars and a mini wall calendar for 2020 featuring Hampton Court Palace Gardens and Queen Victoria whose 200th birthday it will be in 2019.

Other new licences include Jasmine Becket-Griffith whose fantasy art is collected worldwide, iconic satirist R Crumb, and the lovely Beryl Cook whose work will be featured on Flame Tree notebooks this spring. Flame Tree are also excited to introduce many new wall, mini wall and slim calendars to their already extensive list for 2020. These include the magical Dragons by Anne Stokes, the beautiful art of Annie Soudain, the stunning Ominous Beauty – The Art Of Robert John Thornton, and the fascinating art of Giuseppe Arcimboldo.

Following the success of their extended range of pocket diaries, they have increased it yet again with Frida Kahlo, Angela Harding, Anne Stokes, Aimee Stewart and many more, and they have counter packs and counter spinners to help showcase these beautifully foiled and embossed diaries. This year will see Flame Tree’s 1000-piece jigsaw range growing even more, with puzzles including The National Gallery’s Monet: The Museum At Le Havre, Frida Kahlo, and Aimee Stewart’s Fantastic Voyage. New designs in their luxury series of notebooks, pocket books and sketch books include Moomin and Snorkmaiden, Bodleian Libraries’ Girls’ and Boys’ Adventure Books, and Jasmine Becket-Griffith’s Peppermint Dragonling. And Flame Tree’s gorgeous foiled greetings card range goes from strength to strength as they introduce two new colourful Nel Whatmore designs (Up, Up And Away and Beautiful Reflections), new Bodleian Libraries bookshelves (Boys’ and Girls’ Adventure Books), as well as the beautiful art of Vittorio Zecchin.

SPRING FAIR NEC 3RD-7TH FEBRUARY

HALL 18 STAND P04-Q05

Call: 020 7751 9650 Visit: flametreepublishing.com

SEAGEMS.CO.UK T: +44(0)1736 335840 E: sales@seagems.co.uk © A l l d e s i g n s pr o t e c t e d by S ea G e ms C o pyr igh t & De s ign R igh t.

gifts today 79

Spring Fair

Perfect puzzles Jumbo Games Hall 5, Stand K64!

There is nothing puzzling about Jumbo Games’ intentions for 2019 with the staggering release of 60 brand new puzzles for January.

Hot on the heels of a successful 2018 performance across their Adult Puzzle portfolio, Jumbo Games are starting 2019 off with a host of new releases across their much-loved and top-selling puzzle brands.

Leading the way as the UK’s number one Adult Puzzle Brand, Jumbo Games have released six new puzzles across the popular Original, Destiny and Mystery puzzle concepts.

The innovative and highly collectable brand new releases will include the Wasgij Original 31: Safari Surprise!, Destiny 19: The Puzzlers Arms! and Mystery 16: Birthday Surprise!, all across 1000-piece formats. Complementing the lineup of proven selling formats, Jumbo have re-released the third installments in the Wasgij Retro range (having not been available for over 15 years), with the titles Original 3: Full Monty Fever!, Destiny 3: The Sands of Time! and Mystery 3: Drama at the Opera! in 1000-piece formats.

Jumbo’s nostalgic inspired Falcon de Luxe range adds 10 new editions this January, continuing to cover the traditional and quintessentially much-loved British themes of Nostalgia, Scenery, Cottages, Animals and Transport, across varying piece counts that are popular with consumers. Key new releases to look out for include; ‘A Summer Evening at the Pub’ 2x500-piece, ‘A Day on the River’, ‘Farmer’s Market’ and ‘The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage’ 1000-piece and ‘A Beautiful Summer’s Day’ in a fantastic 2x1000 and ‘Your Favourite

80 gifts today

Shops’ 4x1000-piece box sets.

Adding to their hugely popular own-brand comic style puzzles, Jan van Haasteren, Jumbo have released four brand new puzzles for Spring; including the 500XLPiece ‘The Kitchen’, the 1000-piece ‘Camping in the Forest’, ‘Acrobat Circus’ and ‘The Pharmacy’ 1000-piece puzzles, as well as a 1500-piece ‘Highland Games’ puzzle.

With a portfolio catering for all prize points and design themes, Jumbo are also releasing an incredible 41 new designs to add to their Premium Collection. From luxurious holidays destinations to picturesque scenery to classic illustration styles, the Premium Collection offers retailers and consumers a point of difference from traditional British artwork.

If it’s children’s products you are looking for, Jumbo have a range of new Wooden Toys, Puzzles and Games from their high-quality Goula range, that make for great gifting ideas for toddlers and preschoolers alike. The Goula range features over 100 beautiful toys and Jumbo can find the perfect selection for your customers.

Lastly, Jumbo are launching a brand new, Eco-Games range to their children’s games portfolio, focusing on 100% environmentally friendly games, using recycled materials. The four Eco-Games are Catch the Mouse, Colour Chameleon, Honey Yummy and Peek-a-Boo. All four of these games are made from 100% recycled materials and suitable for ages 3+.

Visit: jumbo.eu

SIMPLY GORGEOUS

JEWELLERY AND ACCESSORIES

Â?  ­ ­ Â&#x20AC; Â&#x201A; Â&#x192;

SPRING FAIR

Hall 19 Stand C18

 ���� � ��

Â&#x201E;

Â&#x20AC; Â&#x192; Â&#x2026; Â? Â&#x2020; Â&#x2021; Â? Â&#x2020; Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2030; Â Â&#x2020; Â&#x192;

Buy online at missmilly.co.uk or call: 01905 622 509

YEARS

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Carrie Elspeth H A N D M A D E

I N

WA L E S

NEW Spring 2019 Collection

Spring Fair - Stand 19C20-D21 Full colour catalogue available sales@carrieelspeth.com | 01446 771271 | www.carrieelspeth.com

Trade talk Spring Fair, trends and new launches – it’s all up for discussion with some leading gift companies this month

Gifts Today loves to hear your views.

Monique Scott MD, Groovy UK Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

Yvonne Hambridge Marketing manager, Price’s Patent Candles Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

Price’s Candles have been exhibiting at Spring Fair since 2003 – we’re loyal to the show! We find it a great place to meet new customers and chat to existing customers alike, plus we’re offering a number of show deals, with up to 55% off and offering 5% off on all orders placed on the show days themselves.

Because it is a fantastic showcase for our new ranges both with new and existing customers.

What’s the big news on your stand?

Launching completely new collections and products for Frida Kahlo, Brandalized (25 years of Banksy’s work photographed), Jimmy The Bull, Yoga Cats and Dogs and Mr Men, Little Miss. With the new Fantastic Beasts movie out in November Harry Potter fans are always looking for interesting new products and Groovy has them and will continue to develop with each of the new movies to follow.

What’s the big news on your stand?

We’re launching six new fragrances to complete our Fragrance Collection – taking the collection to an impressive 30 scents.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

Our customers are keen for a subtle scent, contrasted with bold, bright colourful wax. Our Fragrance Collection addresses those trends, with 30 contemporary scents offered in vibrant coloured, high quality wax.

Charlotte Gillan MD, Classic Canes Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

The Spring Fair is one of our most important ways of meeting new customers from the UK and abroad, and to meet up with our existing stockists, some of whom have been coming to see us at the show for decades.

What’s the big news on your stand?

As it is our 30th Spring Fair we are celebrating by bringing our largest ever range of walking sticks. We have well over 700 models now, including around 90 folding canes.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

Contemporary reinterpretations of classics such as floral print canes are working well. Flowers are still very popular, but now they are based on modern designs so they feel fresh and new for the next generation of walking stick users.

82 gifts today

Paul Hooker Commercial director, Joe Davies Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

We are one of the few companies that still launch the entire Spring Collection at one event; that’s around 2500 brand new exciting items that will debut at the show. There really is nowhere else so well organised or attended where all our customers can see the collection together.

What’s the big news on your stand?

For Joe Davies it’s an extra special event at the Spring Fair this year as we celebrate our 100 years anniversary. On the stand there will be plenty of prosecco, and we’ll be staying late on Monday for our customers to enjoy a glass or two.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

Tribal Animal is looking very interesting in home décor, on jewellery seashell and seaside themes are hotly tipped. Wooden, craft finished occasion and home photo frames look very strong. Generally flowers, florals and bees are also key designs and feature on everything from recycled bamboo and hand decorated glass to cosmetic bags, totes and ceramics.

Jonny Greves Buyer, Lesser & Pavey Ltd Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair this year?

We have exhibited at every Spring Fair since it moved to Birmingham. We use it to launch our new ranges for the year, see regular customers and also meet new customers.

What’s the big news on your stand?

We’re making big moves towards being more eco-friendly as a company and have expanded our range of bamboo fibre gifts, soy wax candles, recycled lunch bags and shopping bags. Buyers can expect to see new products across all our product spheres.

Julie Dodsworth Owner, Julie Dodsworth Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

It’s a great platform to reach out to our lovely customers and showcase our new products. Beth (pictured) and I love to meet as many people as possible including those who may

Sarah Watmore Owner, Miss Milly Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

It is the perfect launchpad for the spring/ summer season and we usually have a great mix of existing, new and potential customers coming throughout the show to look at what’s new.

possibly supply to us in the future too.

What’s the big news on your stand?

Our new vegan-friendly collections. So proud we are plastic, paraben and paraffin free.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

We love the all the upcycled, recycled, single use products.

We feel very inspired to make more and more of our own.

What’s the big news on your stand?

The brightest and boldest colour palette yet. We are over the moon with it it’s scrumptious. There are limes, turquoises, fuchsias, bold corals and rich cobalts. Tempered with a sprinkling of peach, sky blue, soft grey and dusky pink, there really is something for every taste, as long as you’re looking for colour.

Cara Beech New product manager, PMC Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

Clive Briscoe MD, Apples to Pears Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair this year?

Spring Fair remains the biggest and most important opportunity for us to showcase the wonderful Apples to Pears ranges and new lines each year.

What’s the big news on your stand?

We are excited to announce three new additions to our multi award-winning Gift in Tin range: George the Giraffe, Space Station and My Garden Play Set.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

Natural and wellness will continue to grow as key consumer themes throughout the year, as will spending quality time in and around the home.

This will cause parents in particular to think about how their children are occupied and the debate around quality educational experiences versus superficial digital activities will be a hot topic. The brilliant engagement and education which Gift in a Tin provides for everyone and especially the new Craft, Build and Garden & Wildlife lines are perfectly placed to tap into these trends.

Spring Fair gives every visitor to the show the opportunity to see what we do, meet our team and allows us to build relationships with current and future customers. Spring Fair also allows us to showcase our best-selling products and ranges, giving visitors the chance to see products in the flesh and decide what products will suit their business best.

What’s the big news on your stand?

We launched our brand new and revamped trade website in early January, so it’s also a great opportunity to walk customers new and old through the new features of the site and to demonstrate how working with PMC and selling with us is now easier than ever. We will be unveiling a range of new products that are being personalised with a brand new personalisation process.

gifts today 83

Andrew Illingworth MD, Widdop and Co Why are you exhibiting at the Spring Fair?

Perry Simmons MD, Stoneglow Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

We will be showcasing some exciting new ranges and launching revamped collections, to bring our brand up to date with the current trend and market. We love the trade shows as it is great to meet and catch up with our customers - we find their feedback invaluable.

What’s the big news on your stand this year?

Newness, new ranges and new looks …2019 is for moving forward.

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

Big is beautiful! Big floral prints are on trend, so check out our new Urban Botanic range that has been shortlisted to Gift of the Year 2019.

It represents our biggest marketing effort of the year with most of the company involved in the event in one way or another. We expect to meet lots of new customers as well as export customers it would be difficult to meet elsewhere.

Big trends you’ve spotted for2019?

Journaling, the practice of mindfulness and celebrating good news are three key trends that have taken giftware by storm.

Baby showers and gender reveal parties have made their way across the pond and been embraced by future parents. Iridescent finishes combined with pops of colour or pearlescent look like they will create a splash in 2019 while bright neons take on a life of their own giving ordinary items a new lease of life.

What’s the big news on your stand?

The Meg Hawkins Art collection includes gift and home accessories with hand-illustrated design. Other exciting new licences include Roald Dahl and from the Disney stable we continue to build on the success of Disney films as well as the classical Magical Beginnings.

Look out for The Office from our gents Harvey Makin and Estella from our Sophia ladies brand, a high-end classy ladies range with crystal, lacquer and lots of gold foil. Now or Never (N.o.N.) features fabulous and fun giftware from fashion’s new queen of cool - Kendra Dandy as well as Unicorn Snot a unique range of cosmetics.

Tom Sykes Director, Xystos Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

We use Spring Fair as a showcase for our new ranges and as a result write orders from existing customers and open new accounts. It’s a must-do show.

Stephen Thurlow Partner, Alexander Thurlow Why are you exhibiting at Spring Fair?

We exhibit here because it really is the main show of the year to kick-start the new ranges that we are currently promoting.

What’s the big news on your stand this year?

For us bespoke has been the way forward, being able to offer the customer something unique to them is a great incentive.

84 gifts today

What’s the big news on your stand?

The acquisition of the Di Palomo brand, new fragrances from Cello, the Xystos own-brand candle collection, and a raft of new affordable homeware ranges from our Australian partner Splosh. We’ll have one or two surprises as well!

Big trends you’ve spotted for 2019?

I think we will all find consumers being more discerning than they once were. As far as the candle market is concerned, they are increasingly aware that buying the cheapest isn’t necessarily a good option: you get what you pay for. I also expect there to be a continuing appetite for electric melt burners, reed diffusers and flame and fragrance accessories.

Show offers available S p r i n g 路 E a s t e r 路 Ev e r y d ay 2 019

Are you looking for

agents... if so contact: Mark Horsnell 01442 289949 mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Tray 13x21 cm

Mug 0,4l

Candle big

Cushion 34x34 cm

SPRING FAIR BIRMINGHAM NEC 路 Febuary 3-7 2019 路 Stand 3KO1 Contact Richard Weitzkorn 07956 424482 richard@ambproducts.co.uk Come and See our New Spring Easter Everyday 2018 collection!

Portmeirion Group

Top of the table In the run-up to Spring Fair, we caught up with Phil Atherton, Group Sales & Marketing Director of Portmeirion Group, about the company’s new launches for the show Phil, how was business for Portmeirion Group and its many brands in 2018?

2018 saw us complete the first twelve months of our four-year growth strategy, and was a really exciting and successful year for Portmeirion Group as we continued to invest in our world-renowned brands.

The V&A Museum opened a gallery dedicated to Susan Williams-Ellis’ (the founder of Portmeirion) groundbreaking designs last year, as 2018 marked the 100th anniversary of Susan’s birthday.

Demonstrating the illustrious heritage of Portmeirion, the exhibition showcases the legacy of the brand to a huge, international audience.

Heritage is key for Portmeirion Group’s brands and we continue to remind our audience of this. Spode’s 250th anniversary is fast approaching and so 2020 promises to be a spectacular year for the brand. Not many brands have 250 years behind them.

How is giftware doing for the company?

Giftware is at the core of our business. Pretty much

86 gifts today

everything we make is giftable – whether that be a teapot, a candle, a baking dish or even a plate.

As entertaining at home continues to increase in popularity, consumers know that a gift of tableware, cookware or serveware will be very well received. The concept of entertaining at home is evolving rapidly.

We’re even seeing people who are invited to a homebased gathering contributing to that get-together by cooking or preparing a dish and buying a serving piece or cookware item to present it in, and then giving that item to the host as a gift.

It’s also very important to make tableware and homeware feel like a special purchase. Those who are investing in our products want to feel like they’re treating themselves. Gift packaging is key to this, as well as making products stand out in store.

Which giftware ranges did well for you in the past year?

Royal Worcester’s Wrendale Designs collection continues to be a stand out success. After six years

on the market, it has more than proven its status as a best-seller. Uniquely charismatic designs, fine bone china, gift pieces and fresh new launches each year means the collaboration goes from strength to strength.

The Sara Miller London Portmeirion collaboration has been an unprecedented success. The two brands have so much in common and are therefore the perfect fit for each other – and like any good licence, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.

Our heritage collections continue to perform well too. Portmeirion’s Botanic Garden collection remains a best-seller across the globe as does Spode’s Blue Italian. Both of these collections are bought as gifts and are presented in beautiful gift packaging.

Any specific trends you’re predicting will be big for 2019 - and how are you responding?

Timeless, heritage designs continue to inspire trends in 2019 which is great news for our heritage brands at Portmeirion Group. In a crowded market, heritage

signals experience, quality and relevance and thus helps a consumer make a purchasing decision. Not only that, the archives of our brands have a wonderful array of designs that have relevance in today’s market. By using these heritage designs in a modern way we not only deliver ranges that are on-trend, we are also able to talk more about our heritage.

Botanic Garden Harmony builds on Portmeirion’s iconic design with new textures and colours that have a retro heritage feel. Spode’s new Kingsley collection also fits this trend perfectly.

In terms of colour, earthy tones are on trend for 2019, especially amber. Botanic Garden Harmony utilises this trend to wonderful effect with retro motifs in earthy tones complemented by amber, forest green, moss green and stone colourways.

Tropical designs continue to be popular and we’re launching a new collection from our partnership with Sara Miller London. Tahiti features playful designs in rich colourways that certainly make a visual impact.

Cutesy animals stay a firm favourite for gifts. Royal Worcester’s Wrendale Designs sees the introduction of new characters and new pieces as well as a melamine picnic-ware collection.

Timeless, textural and organic remains strong in the global market and as such we have extended the Sophie Conran for Portmeirion collection to include serving pieces inspired by the beautiful shapes of shells – they make the perfect gift.

And, florals continue to dominate as people bring the outdoors in. Portmeirion’s Atrium mixes florals with textures and geometric designs to offer something unique to the market.

As you can expect from Portmeirion Group, all our new launches feature striking gift packaging that attracts consumers and looks great in store.

Why Spring Fair? How important is it for you as a company?

Trade shows are the ideal platform to showcase our new ranges and products as well as enabling us to listen to our customers about the opportunities they have and the challenges they face at a time when people are really focused.

Whilst everyone is incredibly busy, the trade shows still give you the chance to have in-depth discussions about the industry and markets as well as the product ranges and consumer demand.

Spring Fair is perfectly timed. It’s at the start of the year when retailers are looking forward to seeing what the year holds in terms of new. It is a fantastic opportunity to talk to our customers about the year ahead, what they have planned and what we have planned. It is a great platform to demonstrate to the trade why Portmeirion group are the ideal gifting partner.

Call: 01782 744721 Email: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com Visit: portmeiriongroup.com

Get in touch

Spring Fair, Hall 9, stand E20 – F21 Ambiente, Hall 4.1, stand D05 gifts today 87

Spring Fair

Super sculptures Edge Sculpture Hall 1, Stand H20 2018 was a fantastic year for Edge Sculpture with market appreciation for the entire portfolio being pursued with th energy and an appreciation from m their stockists that has been nothing short of breathtaking.

From a personal point of view this is of course very flattering indeed, but more importantly stokes the fire of motivation to continue to create, sculpt and release even more diverse pieces that serves to maintain Edge’s unique style of work.

Going forward then into 2019 and there are some fantastic new subjects for the Spring Fair, with a Sea Turtle, Polar Bear and d Sloth being just a teaser of what to expect when you visit the stand.

Magic melt Melt Hall 6-7 & 20, Stand R10 Melt produce Fine Fragrance Candles and Reed Diffusers, handmade in the beautiful Ribble Valley in the Lancashire countryside. All products are made from the finest materials, sourced locally giving a low carbon footprint, long burn times and fabulous fragrance. All candles and reed diffusers are supplied in beautiful quality branded packaging.

Melt launch brand new Hand, Body & Home range. Good things take time – but are mostly worth the wait. When Melt started to investigate the possibility of taking some of their stunning candle fragrances across into Hand, Body & Home products, it wasn’t the fragrances that gave them a challenge… it was creating the very best base formulations to marry them with.

But now the hard work is complete - and they are delighted to introduce this naturally-derived and vegan range with no parabens, no SLS. No silicone and no animal ingredients. The packaging is also fully recyclable.

Available in Hand Wash, Hair and Body Wash, Hand Cream, Body Cream and Aromatic Sprays in three of their most iconic candle fragrances, with more to follow. All lovingly crafted in England.

Call: 01952 884804 Email: sales@edgesculpture.com Visit: edgesculpture.com

Call: 01200 443377 Email: info@themeltco.com Visit: themeltco.com

Getting warmer Intelex Stand: 5H30-J31 Intelex Group, the innovators behind the world’s first ever fully-microwavable soft toys, are delighted to showcase their best-selling Warmies range at the upcoming Spring Fair.

Three new ranges for 2019 include; super soft, luxurious hand warmers suitable for all ages, adorable Warmies Cuddles and new children’s long hot water bottles.

New for 2019, Intelex have created a range of four cute microwavable hand warmers.

The fully heatable range offers hours of warmth and comfort, simply slip your hands into each pocket to keep them warm and toasty!

They will also be showcasing six detachable cuddling Warmies that will melt your heart, these seven-inch Cuddles offer double the fun and are supplied in attractive gift packaging.

Intelex have created a lovely alternative to their ever-popular plush range. Showcasing the latest innovation on hot water bottles with a collection of unique and fun covers for kids.

These adorable new kids designs provide fun and warmth and are a perfect introduction to hot water bottles.

Ten new exciting characters have been added to the world’s best selling heatable soft toy collection. The range will feature llamas, a flamingo and a swan along with many other playmates. These loveable new Warmies take their Plush collection to 38; however, visitors will still be able to find some of their favourites. These will include beautiful unicorns, enchanting dragons, cute dinosaurs and adorable pooches, allowing clever retailers to capitalise on popular trends.

Call: 01933 679 777 Email: sales@intelex.co.uk Visit: intelex.co.uk

88 gifts today

ted Hand Craf ients d e r g n I l a Natur ts Luxury Gif

Spring Fa ir 2019 Stand 6T4 3 Hall 6,7 & 20

For all Trade enquires E: info@vanillablanc.co.uk T: 0333 772 0673

www.vanillablanc.co.uk

Spring Fair

In the groove Groovy UK Hall 6, Stand H40 – J41 2019 looks to be a very successful year for Groovy UK who will be launching their new ranges at the NEC Spring Fair in February. Their new licences include Frida Kahlo, Mr. Men, Brandalised, Jimmy The Bull and Gudetama, boosting the creativity and unique style of Groovy, alongside growing new product areas within their licences.

Frida Kahlo is recognised as one of the twentieth century’s most iconic women, a uniquely talented Mexican artist and activist renowned for self-portraits.

Brandalised is an urban graffiti licence with high visibility and recognition with a collection of artworks and photographs of Banksy graffiti, the world’s most famous graffiti artist.

Mr. Men and Little Misses, the fun little characters we have all grown up with have expanded over time to include cheeky new personalities but still have a very cool 1970s retro edge which sits well with the Groovy persona.

Gudetama is a lazy egg, cracked too early on the wrong side of the shell. Starring in short animations muttering and grumbling, complaining and sighing, he’s one of the newest characters to come out of Sanrio, the Japanese mega company that created Hello Kitty and Groovy’s ranges have a cracking sense of humour.

Harry Potter continues to be a fabulous licence for the company and the design team are continually refreshing the range with fabulous new lines. A Patronus, Hedwig, Love Potion and Kawaii character ranges, which includes bathrobes, slippers, bags and lighting. Kawaii’s meaning is ‘the culture of cuteness’ and no matter what age you can’t help but love these adorable characters.

Fantastic Beasts have enjoyed great success with their second movie and Groovy have created collections inspired by the weird and wonderful characters and creatures.

Groovy’s philosophy in the world of official licensed giftware is designing and creating original products, in line with current trends in movies, TV and fashion as well as always comprising a sense of humour to add fun in sharing gifts across apparel, accessories and homewares. So, if you love your gifts, ‘Different by Design’ Groovy is the place to be.

Call: 0844 372 7820 Email: hello@groovyuk.com Visit: groovyuk.com

Scent with love Wax Lyrical Hall 4, D40 – E41 Wax Lyrical are adding innovation to their 2019 home fragrance collections, with a host of brand new products and new inspiring fragrances - including the return of timeless classics, Day At The Spa and Blissful Sunday into their Colony collection.

A new range of Fired Earth candles and reed diffusers have been developed to join their already best-selling collection, this time inspired by the beautiful tile designs of Fired Earth. They’ve kept the luxury tea-inspired fragrances that are known and loved, so all your favourites can still be found within this sophisticated and classic collection, whilst the new products offer more choice for consumers looking for something different – the large ceramic candles (which come in a branded gift box) are a particular highlight.

Following the trend of super foods Wax Lyrical have created Fruit Scents, a collection of bright and fruity candles and reed diffusers, perfect for the health-conscious among us or for those who simply want to enjoy a light and refreshing fruity fragrance. This range is available as candle, candle tin, reed diffuser and refill in four fruity fragrances - Apple & Raspberry, Blueberry & Blackcurrant, Cranberry & Pomegranate, Kiwi & Passionfruit.

Their Yvonne Ellen collection sees newness too, with the introduction of candle stacking tins (with a combined burn time of up to 96 hours) and a scented tealight gift set, alongside three new premium fragrances - Fancy Flamingo, Safari Nights and Savannah Sunset.

GiftScents sees three more occasions added to their core collection of reed diffuser cards – Thank You, Thinking of You and New Baby – and a brand new range of pun-inspired messages. Choose between their classic reed diffuser card or new scented card and an on-trend character like a mermaid or unicorn to give a modern gift #ScentWithLove this year.

Call: 01229 461 166 Email: info@waxlyricaltrade.com Visit: waxlyricaltrade.com 90 gifts today

Come and see the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite glassware supplier: where quality meets design Spring Fair, NEC Hall 4 Stand A58

www.dandjglassware.co.uk Tel: 01953 450280 Exciting New launches!

Spring Fair

Daringly different Something Different Wholesale Hall 4, stand E40-F41 Something Different Wholesale will be showcasing over 2300 products at Spring Fair 2019 including a variety of exclusive new ranges. These exciting new additions include Dream Big Little One that is packed with contemporary new baby keepsakes and nursery decor, as well as Botanical Mum that provides charming gifts perfect for celebrating Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Visitors to the show will also be able to see the highly anticipated Black Magic range which features unique, gothic-inspired homeware and accessories like coffin-shaped shelves, pentagram wall art and an ouija board makeup pouch.

A new range of backflow burners will also be on display with designs including dragons, Buddhas and the Green Man. Something Different are also offering high quality Goloka backflow incense cones in popularr fragrances like Lavender, Rose and Nag Champa.

At the show Something Different will be unveiling their new range of exclusive licensed canvas plaques featuring the stunning artwork of fantasy artist Nene Thomas which includes 12 designs inspired by dragons, fairies and sorceresses.

As well as the many new products, Something Different will also be showcasing bestselling lines such as Himalayan Salt lamps, incense, wind chimes and exclusive licensed products by Anne Stokes and Lisa Parker.

Stop by the Something Different stand to get a copy of their new spring/summer catalogue.

Call: 01792 940 288 Email: sales@somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk Visit: somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

92 gifts today

+HDYHQ 6FHQW GRLQJ WKLQJV QDWXUDOO\ 6SULQJ )DLU UG WK )HE _ 6WDQG &

HPDLO FRQWDFW#KHDYHQVFHQW FR XN ZZZ KHDYHQVFHQW FR XN

Free floor stand with orders of 24 pieces or more

RRP £19.95

By Intelex Group (UK) Ltd. www.intelex.co.uk

01933 679 777

sales@intelex.co.uk

Snuggle up to our Extra Long Hot Water Bottles

Visit Us at Spring Fair on 3rd - 7th Feb. Stand 5H30-J31

14 cover designs to choose from 3 new chunky cable knit covers for 2019

Supplied in attractive gift packaging

Spring Fair

Giving garden Angelic Hen Hall 6, stand R39 Brand new ’ The Giving Garden’, a photographic range of fresh blossoms with key racks and key rings, gift labels, giant pegs and gardening quotes.

Family life is a constant source of inspiration at Angelic Hen. One of their first products ‘this week’s masterpiece’ peg is still a best seller. As the family has grown, they have discovered new problems that need solving. Odd socks that can be sorted with ‘The Sock Exchange’. How to encourage keen gamers to do anything else with their ‘things to do when I’m not gaming ‘giant peg.

If you want to organise your life, their best-selling range

of ’Jolly useful key rings’ will appeal. Some of the team have reached the ‘Hmm what did I come in here for?’ stage, so they have developed a wonderfully witty range of signs and coasters because no matter what age you are everyone still loves a laugh. Free homemade fudge for visitors

Call: 01600 891572 Email: customerservices@angelichen.com Visit: angelichen.com

Head to the country The Country Candle Company Hall 4 Stand J16 Pastels & Petals Hand-decorated with British grown and handpicked petals, the Pastels Collection from The Country Candle Company is a truly unique take on home fragrance. Launched last summer in tin candles, diffusers and wax melts, the collection quickly became a big hit and is now their best selling range.

New for 2019, a set of medium glass candles (50-hour burn time) and small glass votive candles (20-hour burn time) will be joining the collection. Offering something to suit all price points and home fragrance needs, these really do make a wow statement.

The Country Candle Company make all their products in-house and source their materials from UK suppliers wherever they can. All their products are vegan, GMO free, palm oil free and ethically manufactured in the UK. Handcrafting candles, diffusers and wax melts in Corsham, Wiltshire. The Country Candle Company is a family run business, taking great pride in creating high quality, vegan, GMO free and palm oil free home fragrance.

What’s New For 2019 The design department at The Country Candle Company have been busy developing brand new products for Spring Fair, as well as updating some old favourites. Their extremely successful Pastels Collection which is hand decorated with delicate British grown petals, is expanding to include medium glass candles and small glass votive candles. Offering something to suit all price points.

Two brand new fragrances will be joining the luxury Wonderwick Collection, which features crackling wooden wick candles and fibre technology diffusers.

The ever popular Superstars and Polka Dot Collections have also been updated with new fragrances and colours, keeping them up to date with the latest home and gift trends. See The Country Candle Company at Spring Fair, and pick up a free goody bag.

Call: 01249 478 660 Email: sales@thecountrycandlecompany.com Visit: thecountrycandlecompany.com 94 gifts today

GIFTS

LIMITED EDITIONS

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

creative solutions for tabletop, gifts and accessories.

Contact us for more details on new product introductions and existing collections from our exclusive brands or come and see us at N.E.C. Spring Fair, Hall 4 Stand H55 Email: info@glb.uk.com Telephone: 01538 807 780 www.globalluxurybrands.co.uk

House Beautiful See Us At: Spring Fair NEC Hall 4F53-G53 Frankfurt Ambiente Hall 4.0 A31 01805 626226 sales@dartington.co.uk

Spring Fair

Happy 100th!

Joe Davies Hall 5 D50-E51 Spring Fair 2019 will be extra special for leading giftware importer Joe Davies, as the family owned business celebrates its 100-year anniversary. A lot has changed since Joe Davies founded the business in 1919 on his return from the war; but he would certainly approve and be very proud that his attitudes towards looking after independent customers continue to remain at the heart of everything the company does.

Joe’s first agency was with Benjamin Parkes selling Hearth Furniture, and within a few short years, Joe Davies as a wholesaler was born with just a couple of hundred lines.

One thing Joe would not recognise now is the company’s stand at the Spring Fair. This year there will be over 8000 lines on display at the Spring Fair. The offer is also a lot more exhaustive than fireside and hearth furniture. General gift, Equilibrium jewellery, fashion accessories, home décor, snoozies! foot coverings, a huge Christmas selection and gifts for all life’s special events are all on display.

It was 1928 when Norman Davies, Joe’s son came on board the business and by 1958, Norman’s son Peter, the current Chairman, joined the business (initially as floor sweeper and boiler stocker). At that time, the company had just six employees and was still based in Shudehill, Manchester.

Steve Davies, Peter’s son and the fourth generation, now heads up the business as Managing Director and has been responsible for the buying and development of the range over the last 20 years. For this Spring Fair, Steve and his buying team have worked very hard over the last six months and more to ensure that they have more than least 2500 brand new lines making their debut at the Spring Fair.

In the modern world Joe Davies have become renowned

96 gifts today

for their ability to adapt quickly to trends in the market place, making sure that the range is exciting and meets the needs of vibrant and hard-working independent retailers nationally. The company still delivers customer service the Joe Davies way, personally and from the heart. This consistent approach has seen the company voted, by their customers, as winners of the coveted ‘Best Service to the Independent Retailer Award’ sixteen years in a row; every year since the awards inception, Joe would be very proud.

Joe and his son Norman used to travel by steam train and show their wares around towns using a horse and cart as transport for the many samples they would take everywhere with them. Luckily, these days, the only horses you will see are on product. The company carried out its first exhibition during the 1980’s, not long after Norman and Peter started buying from the Far East.

Both events were revolutionary and propelled the company forward. Own label ceramics, fancy goods, silver plate and poly resin figurines, all developed in the Far East was sold and developed under the company’s own brand Shudehill Giftware.

Over the last 40 years, there have been more changes, including technology. Peter remembers receiving the first fax from the Far East; everyone was crowded in a tiny office in

Shudehill and with expressions of awe everyone agreed this exciting development would truly change how they did business with the Far East. The only downside was it used to take suppliers at least two weeks to tell you the prices had gone up, now it was instant!

It was also nearly 50 years ago that the company first stared to distribute for Lessor & Pavey, and now are the country’s number one distributor of the Leonardo Collection to the Independent trade. Other brands have joined their Joe Davies range too.

At the Spring Fair you will see the Equilibrium collection from Joe Davies, which is one of the company’s biggest success stories of recent times. The collection encompasses both fashion and sentiment jewellery as well as an extensive range of fashion accessories.

Latest Equilibrium additions debuting at Spring Fair include the Seashore Collection, Bumble Bee and the latest, hugely successful incarnation of the range in sterling silver, branded as Equilibrium 925. In all, over the last five to six years the Equilibrium Collection has grown from 40 bracelets into a huge range over 1600 lines of on trend jewellery, complemented with accessories such as bags and scarves. All perfect for the independent retailer. Equilibrium is also a leading brand name in sentiment jewellery. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, the collection has some stunning sentiment pieces to make Mum’s day very special.

Shudehill giftware has developed, with Home Décor, Occasion, Pick up Lines and quirky gifts galore. Whilst in the 1970s the company would have been very excited by horse brasses, copper jugs, and bed pan warmers today it’s all about ranges like wobble head spec holders (hotly tipped), Aztec Animals, Baby’s First Print, Bee Happy Collection and Flower Garden, an exciting range of Silk Flowers. In all there will be over 1500 Shudehill lines appearing for the first time at Spring Fair All the best lines from Leonardo will feature heavily including a greatly extended Eco Bamboo Collection, Highland Cow and lots of very strong ceramic designs. Other hot brands on the stand include new water bottles and cocktail glasses from Sunny by Sue, adding to the massively successful Gin Glasses from last season. There are also new additions to the best selling Bug Art and Kooks Ranges to continue their success in 2019.

There will also be a strong showing of the company’s bestselling snoozies! Collection. Not socks and not slippers, Joe Davies call them ‘cosy little foot coverings’. These will be sitting perfectly alongside their Sock Society Collection of funky socks.

Perhaps the strongest reason to visit Joe Davies though will be to see first-hand their huge collection of outstanding giftware, all in one place at great prices. To enjoy the company’s hospitality, share in their 100-year anniversary celebrations and experience first-hand their philosophy of not making it difficult for people to do business with them.

Minimum order value is just £100 with free nationwide delivery.

If you are an independent retailer, a visit to the Joe Davies stand certainly will not disappoint.

Call: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: joedavies.co.uk gifts today 97

Consumer Insights

Nick Richardson, CEO of The Insights People, discusses the latest trends his business is seeing and what the impacts are for brands and retailers…

2019 could be the rebirth of the high street as we know it

T

he Kids and Parents Insights portal enables clients not just to view, filter and interrogate our data, but to also cross reference and build bespoke analysis to understand your target audience in far greater detail than ever before.

Surveying more than 400 UK kids every single week (20,000 per year) and 200 parents (10,000 per year) they produce four insight-led reports across the Kids’ ecosystem and a further four across the parenting environment, every 12 weeks. Additionally, they provide clients with access to this data in realtime, via their award-winning portal. kidsinsights.co.uk/giftstoday Nick, how would you describe 2018?

Children are growing up in a constantly changing world. Parents are also entering this phase in their life faced with a widely fragmented landscape. The only way to truly understand their needs is to open a line of communication with the children and parents themselves, which is exactly what we do here at The Insights People. We gain an unrivalled view into the fragmented landscape of this generation of children and their parents.

I think I would probably describe 2018 as OTT (over-the-top) – as this was the year where we have seen over the top commerce become prevalent across the majority of categories – which has hit some businesses extremely hard. But this in many ways should not have been a surprise, as it has been coming for a number of 98 gifts today

years. 2018 was the year where the dust settled after the digital explosion that we saw erupt earlier this decade, and when the realisation that a different approach to retail is needed, and I think this will lead to an exciting year of innovation in 2019.

2018 has been difficult for the high street, do you think 2019 will continue that way?

I think the conditions will remain challenging for retailers as the existing business models which retailers have means that they are always going to be at an unfair disadvantage to digital retailers. However, I see that there are enormous opportunities for the high street to evolve and unlock new revenue opportunities by creating more complete experiences, and I think 2019 could be the rebirth of the high street as we know it.

What are your insights identifying as key opportunities in the gift market?

From a parents’ perspective, we have seen baby showers and gender reveal parties significantly increase in interest. From a kids’ perspective we have seen now that almost a third (31%) of young children in the UK purchase decorative items relating to Halloween, and of course the continued growth in unboxing.

What do you believe is behind the unboxing craze?

So much of the kids’ ecosystem is now digital and in many ways intangible.

Music, gaming and reading which were typically all categories which

were all items which were heavily gifted to children have now become intangible. That combined with the value that this generation of children place on experiences, and how user-generated content is one of the most popular forms of content with children, goes to providing some of the reasons why unboxing has become a popular past time.

“

The most important thing is to really understand your audience, as if you understand who your audience is, where they are, and what they actually want

”

What predictions are you making for 2019?

Well we have just issued our annual Kids Insights Future Forecast report, where we share ten of our predictions for this year. If readers would like a copy, they can download one at: kidsinsights.co.uk/futureforecast

What are you looking forward to seeing in 2019?

I think we are going to see a lot of innovation in the high street, for two reasons – the accessibility and possibilities which new technologies such as AR and VR provide retailers, and because this is the time that high street needs to be reborn, as if it continues to do what it has done before, it will not survive. The exciting thing is that if retailers listen to their audiences, the answers and solutions are there.

We work with lots of different organisations – manufacturers, distributors and retailers and one of the key things that form part of our discussions is improving agility.

The ability to reduce timescales from concept to customer basket is key, as is developing products which are more flexible and adaptable to enable personalisation. But in my mind the most important thing is to really understand your audience, as if you understand who your audience is, where they are, and what they actually want – all critical parts of your business such as product design and marketing are going to perform significantly better.

Understand your audience The Insights People is the leading provider of market intelligence on all things kids, parents and families; providing clients with access to the most comprehensive and dynamic insights on their attitudes, behaviours and consumption. In the last 18 months they have been honoured and delighted to work with many leading brands, including: Crayola, Disney, Hasbro, Keycraft Global, Sambro, Vivid and Warner Bros.

Spring Fair

Hall 4 Stand A35

Manor House Home Fragrance Ltd

T 01359 250720 www.manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

TM & Š 20 19 E r

ic C

arle

L LC

.

See our 2019 collection at Spring Fair, Hall 5, Stand G18 -H19

uk Follow us . o c . s n esig Call 01329 22730 r visit www.rainbowd 0o

Spring Fair

Style statement Culinary Concepts Hall 7, stand A20-B21 Renowned for their luxurious home accessories, lighting and furniture, 2019 is set to be another stylish year for Culinary Concepts. With a whole host of new additions added to their bestselling repertoire, visit them at their 2019 shows and discover a world of unique designs influenced by top trends of the moment.

At this year`s Spring Fair they will be introducing over 600 new and exciting festive lines - heavily inspired by vintage finishes and antique shop delving. With subtle colour pops of dusty pink and sage green, amidst a sea of shimmering silver, their huge assortment of stunning baubles and festive decorative accessories will join their collection of hand cut glass bud vases, dainty tea light holders and smaller gift ideas.

Statement style is also a big focus for Spring and Culinary Concepts will be introducing their newest furniture pieces, accent soft furnishings and contemporary lighting. Their distinctive new musical collection sees traditional trumpets and clarinets transformed in the most unique way to create eye-catching table lamps and side tables.

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be taking elegant upholstery to the next level with plush velvet style armchairs, two-seaters and snuggle chairs with trendy two-tone finishes and exquisite piped edges. Their vintage-feel Persian rugs with beautifully faded patinas will also be waiting to be discovered in an array of chic colours and patterns.

Taking inspiration from around the globe and the beauty of the natural world, take a trip from the plains of Africa to the stunning Orient at Spring Fair where the company will be showcasing their newest barware and home dĂŠcor accessories featuring lions, elephants, cranes and swans. With new additions to their signature octopus collection too, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have everything needed to transform any interior space into a stylish haven.

Visit: culinaryconceptsliving.com

100 gifts today

PROVEN, ORIGINAL

Spring Fair

Marvellous mugs…and more Emma Ball Hall 3, stand S03 Emma Ball Ltd have so many new products this year they can’t list them all.... but one thing they›re particularly excited about are the mugs. Beautifully boxed Bone China in two shapes with 20 new regional additions (more to come) and 16 other lovely designs to match Emma›s best selling ranges - including Abigail Mill Tweedies and Caroline Cleave, you really can›t go wrong. Retailing at an affordable £12.50.

Call: 0115 9858081 Email: sales@emmaball.co.uk Visit: emmaball.co.uk

In the kitchen Julie Dodsworth Hall 20, stand B20 All shiny and new, British artisan Julie Dodsworth will be unveiling a brand new kitchen collection with her new collaboration with one of today’s market leaders MyGiftsTrade. The new licence for Julie includes a beautiful textile range with cake tins, trays, canisters and lovely eco friendly bamboo travel cups. The designs in the new Daisy Daisy (inspired by Julie’s tandem days!) and the best selling Lavender Garden pair up to create a fabulous fresh look for the show.

Churchill China have created stunning china mugs and gift boxes to complete the ensemble. The new China collection also complements Julie’s best sellers and all time favourites .

Julie’s designs have never strayed from her original format of using the heritage paints from her beloved narrowboat Calamity Jane and painting in the traditional two-dimensional style of the 18th century.

There’s a very unique and refreshing approach to business from this very warm and friendly mum and daughter team – Julie and her daughter Beth. Every product exhibited is trialled and tested through their own shops in North Yorkshire. A valuable insight they feel to giving the buyers exactly useful information, free point of sale and tasters. Their motto ‘the people who specialise in listening!’ Is a cornerstone to their business ethics - just one of the many reason the Dodsworth team won The Press Family business of the year.

Call: 01423 360090 Visit: juliedodsworth.co.uk

Inspirational fragrances Sandy Bay London Hall 6, stand S33 Sandy Bay are proud to introduce three fabulous new fragrances to their unique Gentlemen’s Club Collection. Dolce Vita, which is inspired by the beauty and vibrancy of Italy’s Amalfi Coast portrayed in the cult 1960s film by Federico Fellini. Hemmingway, created to depict the vibrant, sensuous Cuban Capital of Havana a regular haunt of Ernest Hemingway during his writing days; and Espionage, a dark sultry fragrance of Russian leathers and dark woods, intense and glamorous, but with a dark side which is utterly beguiling.

Also new to the Home Collection is Linden Flower, a captivating exotic fragrance, with beautiful floral notes, enveloped in velvety, luxurious warmth; and Sel de Mer, a light bright ozonic fragrance, with refreshing citrus and floral notes, set into a luscious salty heart.

102 gifts today

Call: 01992 579949 Email: enquiries@sandybaylondon.com Visit: sandybaylondon.com

3H\UJOPUN H[ [OL

:7905. -(09 5,* )09405./(4

5V[LIVVRZ Notes n Quotes XL is a fabulous new range of inspiring, motivational and fun A5 notebooks featuring inspirational, uplifting quotes, goal setting, and doodle pages.

Spring Fair International: 20K10-L11 or contact us for a trade catalogue. www.classiccanes.co.uk

Bright, colourful and great quality, these 24 titles include Retro themes as well as Motivational, Sentiments, and Travel. These beautifully bound notebooks with 100 lined pages to ÄSS ^P[O PUZWPYPUN [OV\NO[Z anecdotes, goals and dreams, are a great gift for only £7.99.

*VSV\Y ;OLYHW` *HY -YLZOLULYZ

Scent your car with our exciting new colour therapy car fresheners.

FIT S

T

Bringing together colour and fragrance we have created a wonderful new gift and a product that TH` OH]L THU` OLHS[O ILULÄ[Z 0U]PNVYH[PUN JVSV\YZ blended with the right fragrance can R VENT AR AI create a better balance of emotional YC N A and mental wellbeing. A great gift O retailing for only £4.99

࠮ -P[Z [V HPY ]LU[ ࠮ 3VUN SHZ[PUN ZJLU[ ࠮ ]PIYHU[ JVSV\YZ ࠮ KPɈLYLU[ JH[LNVYPLZ

;V ZLL [OLZL UL^ WYVK\J[Z HUK TVYL WSLHZL ]PZP[ \Z H[ [OL

:7905. -(09 5,* )09405./(4

/HSS :[HUK ) *

-,)9<(9@ =63<4, 67,5: -,)

^^^ NSVIHS QV\YUL` JVT

Spring Fair

Bubbling up Heaven Scent Hall 6-7 and 20, stand C19 Heaven Scent have always thought about their packaging options and have where possible used recycled materials. Choosing gift boxes that are easily biodegradable and are made of FSC recycled board, Heaven Scent wanted to persuade customers to have very minimal gift packaging to prevent excess wastage, that only ends up in a landfill site.

They use recycled glass for their candles and, of course, natural plant wax that is kind to the environment, cruelty free and suitable for vegans. Last year they took soap production in house and are working on creating a ‘hard shampoo bar’.

‘We would like to be plastic-free and do try and keep the use of plastic in our business to a minimum, by creating a shampoo bar this will help consumers have a plastic free option available to them,’ says Sarah Pettitt of Heaven Scent. ‘We do use plastic bottles for our body products, but it is recyclable material, which means it can be recycled in a council run recycled scheme. We are having a conversation with our packaging companies about introducing plastic alternatives for our products in the future.’

Call: 01225 868788 Email: contact@heavenscent.co.uk Visit: heavenscent.co.uk

To the Manor born Manor House Hall 4, stand A35 Manor House has just finished a record breaking Christmas season and are proud to announce the success of their new website, which has given a greater audience a view of their 25 stunning home fragrance collections with new fragrance launches ready for Spring Fair They are proud to have just launched with a high-end internet based company and gift shop in the USA which will allow more people to purchase their products, along with many new garden centres and gift shops around the UK and Ireland.

They pride themselves on producing all their products by hand in Suffolk, England which comprise: Pot Pourri and Scented Pine Cones, Scented Botanical Candles, Room Diffusers and Sprays, Drawer Liners and Sachets along with Advent Candles, Luxury Hand Washes, Scented fabric Bags and Cushions and so on.

All products are produced by hand in their Suffolk workrooms, using mainly British packaging and fragrances. They use the finest botanicals from around the world, packaging, fabrics, hand woven silks from Suffolk silk mills and ribbons mainly from British companies thus creating a true Handmade in Great Britain Home Fragrance Collection.

The Facebook page ‘Manor House Home Fragrance Ltd’ and a Twitter account ‘ManorHouseHome1’ to link their business with their final end customers and clients is gaining many followers and positive comments.

Manor House work with many leading retailers to produce private label collections incorporating clients’ thoughts and ideas, fragrances and branding to offer bespoke and unique one-off collections. Manor House will be presenting their complete collection including Christmas 2019 at the Spring Fair.

Call: 01359 250720 Visit: manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

104 gifts today

Looking for vegan friendly?

Look no further!

Our all new fragrance collections are also…

• • • • •

The Press ‘Family business of the Year’ www.juliedodsworth.co.uk

See Us At SPRINg Fai r 4J16

|

Deliciously Natural!

Plastic FREE Paraben & 3DUDIÀQ )5(( Palm Oil FREE Handmade in the UK

Find us at the NEC Springfair HALL 20 - B20 01423 360 090

|

07977 137 126

handcrafting candles, wax melts & diffusers in Corsham, wiltshire on the edge of the cotswolds. we are a small family run business dedicated to creating high Quality, vegan, gmo Free, palm oil free & ethically manufactured products.

We are committed to sourcing our ingredients and components from uk suppliers wherever possible. come see us at Spring Fair with our new pastels Glass Candles and a whole lot of other new products!

01249 478 660 www.thecountrycandlecompany.coM sales@thecountrycandlecompany.com

Spring Fair

It’s a mad, mad world Mad Beauty Hall 6, stand Q01 Mad Beauty are known for taking stand-out licences, and adding a new dimension to their historic, universal impressions. Their uniquely designed Bath, Body & Gift products are aimed at the teen, millennial and adult market and have a very strong nostalgic appeal; this year their tagline ‘Never Too Old For…’ has never been more relevant.

In 2019, Disney are welcoming an array of new releases, and Mad Beauty are thrilled to be collaborating the upcoming films with their captivating new ranges. For SS19, Minnie Mouse, Aladdin, Dumbo and The Lion King are taking centre stage.

With Mickey’s 90th birthday celebrations last year, Mad have decided to use their wizardry to create a range for Minnie entitled Minnie Magic.

For the upcoming live-action releases, Mad Beauty have used these timeless, known and loved stories and have taken their design inspiration from the classic films. They believe that combining the old with the new creates products that can be loved by all ages, for decades.

Mad Beauty are known for using their creative brains to come up with new ways of bringing products to life. Their ‘Never Too Old’ ranges celebrate the characters that are continuously loved across generations, showing that you really are ‘Never Too Old’ For – Disney, Kellogg’s, Barbie, Slush Puppie & Jelly Belly, all of which have had the Mad Beauty treatment in recent years.

However, those creative bods at Mad are now excited to add a new licence to the Mad Family, with the announcement of the upcoming launch of their Hello Kitty range.

In July, Mad Beauty were honoured to attend the Disney UK Licensing Awards and were proudly awarded The Disney Company’s Health & Beauty Product of the Year for their Beauty and the Beast range of bath & body gifts.

Passionate about what they do, Mad’s designers work tirelessly to provide a wide array of products that can be loved by all. Perhaps their mission statement says it all: ‘We’re serious about making cosmetics fun.’

Visit: madbeauty.com

Time to play Paul Lamond Games Hall 5, stand F10-G11 Games and puzzle specialist, Paul Lamond Games are welcoming a number of exciting new additions across their family, children and preschool portfolios for 2019.

Fun-packed new releases include the fantastic new family games; Shaboom! Tip of the Tongue and I Spy Eagle Eye. Paul Lamond Games will also be asking the question: Are you Dumber than a Box of Rocks? The new quick play, trivia game is easy to learn and is perfect for parties as any number of players can play.

For preschoolers there is a colourful new series of 35-piece puzzles and an educational Matching Game in an embossed tin, starring the renowned Oi Frog! Oi Cat! and Oi Dog! characters from the award-winning storybooks. The puzzles and Matching Game feature the colourful illustrations and humorous quotes from the hilarious rhyming books by Kes Gray and Jim Field.

For younger board game players, the new Gangsta Granny ‘Stash the Swag’ board game is just what all fans of The World of David Walliams have been waiting for.

‘They had until tea time to plan the greatest Jewel theft in History!’ but can Granny and Ben avoid the Queen and collect and stash all the ‘jewels’ and be the first to spell out the word Gangsta?

A fantastic, easy play board game that encourages strategic thinking.

In a major enhancement to their puzzle range, Paul Lamond are delighted to announce an exclusive new UK distribution deal with the world renowned Educa Borras company. Paul Lamond will introduce a wide range of the high-quality family puzzles, ranging from 500-4000 pieces, all at competitive retail prices and very good margins.

Call: 020 7254 0100 Visit: paul-lamond.com

106 gifts today

See the NEW lines at Spring Fair!

Stand 6L22-M23

applestopears.com 01453 826759 sales@applestopears.com

Melt Bath & Body Introducing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Preserve & Protectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.Good things take time but are mostly worth the wait

Spring Fair 2019 Stand number 6R10

Web: www.themeltco.com Email: info@themeltco.com Tel: 01200 443377

Toys at Spring Fair

Bursting with toy inspiration

It might not be a specialist trade event but smart toy suppliers and retailers miss Spring Fair at their peril! Sarah Welsh spoke to the show’s resident expert and industry insiders to find out more…

What: Spring Fair 2019 When: 3-7 February 2018 Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: www.springfair.com

H

ead to Birmingham’s NEC this February and you’ll find a veritable wealth of toy inspiration, from handcrafted wooden pieces to train sets.

From 3 to 7 February, Spring Fair throws open its doors and 15 show sectors to an amazing 56,000 trade professionals and 2,500 exhibitors – and this year’s event promises to have a bigger toy offering than ever before.

Hall 5, Children’s Gifts and Toys, will play host to some 200 exhibitors. “There’s definitely a bigger toy offering at Spring Fair this year,” Robin Hayes, Key Account Director for Children’s Gifts and Toys, tells TnP. “And with new features, such as Toy and Nursery First, it’s an area we’re only

looking to grow.”

And as for the brands heading to Birmingham to exhibit their latest ranges at Spring Fair – many say this show attracts buyers from right across the spectrum, from independents to big chains.

“While we find that Toy Fair and Nuremberg are more of a showcase of new products for the new year, at Spring Fair our experience is that buyers are ready to commit and build ranges after seeing the new collections,” says Michelle Probert, Sales and Marketing Manager for Jura Toys.

“This year we have over 150 new Janod products, including three new ranges.”

Green Board Robin Hayes, Games is a company that relishes the opportunity to exhibit at a number of different shows.

“As an established brand with household names, including BrainBox and Qwirkle, we feel that Spring Fair gifts us the opportunity to meet with many of our independent retailers,” says Head of Sales, Sarah Winter. “As a progressive manufacturer and designer of games

“At Spring Fair our experience is that buyers are ready to commit and build ranges after seeing the new collections” Michelle Probert, Jura Toys

108

it’s imperative that we stay ahead of what our audiences are demanding.

Spring Fair provides a great platform for spotting upcoming trends and getting to the heart of what our retailers are looking for.”

Steve Cox, UK Sales Director for Keel Toys, says part of Spring Fair’s attraction is having access to customers from many Spring Fair market sectors, including both gift and toy retailers, plus experience-based customers including museums and zoos.

“It’s important for us to be at the show to work with our existing customers, explore other opportunities and most importantly launch new ranges,” he explains. Sarah Dayus, Sales and Brand Manager at Great Gizmos, is on the same page when it comes to the broad appeal of Spring Fair. “We always open new accounts at the show which is fantastic,” she says. “It’s important for us to have a presence in Birmingham to showcase our range and all of our new products too.”

“Spring Fair marks the culmination of the show season, and as a toy buyer you can only be confident you’ve seen everything once you’ve attended here”

CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DRESSING UP COSTUMES AND ACCESSORIES FOR EDUCATIONAL PLAY High quality selec on of designs igns for 6 months month hs to 11 years. y yea No minimums.

10% off any order placed at the show just show us this advert to get your discount

ll 5 Ha nd Sta 1 K0

Ha Sta ll 8 n B1 d 5

Go to www.pretendtobee.com to register for more details.

Tel: +44 115 921 5690 Email: support@pretendtobee.com

Toys at Spring Fair Funko 0203 957 7018 www.funko.com

Hall 6

Stand J32

Licensed gifts Funko is back at Spring Fair this year; not only are they showcasing their iconic Pop! Vinyl and other figural lines, but they’re also bringing to the show a host of exciting new Gifting and Homewares products, as well as bags, wallets and accessories from their Loungefly brand.

The Gifting and Homewares collection features the hottest licenses, with plenty of products to suit all tastes.

Their Disney Retro line will be on display, as well as their outlandish Rick and Morty range.

The Rick and Morty line is the perfect pop culture showpiece for the kitchen - with plenty of humorous references from the hit TV phenomenon that fans will love, including the Pickle Rick Bottle Opener, Pickle Rick Banana Guard, Mr. Meeseeks mug and Rick and Morty Egg Cups. With plenty more key licenses joining the range for 2019, including The Little Mermaid Pearl Anniversary collection, Toy Story, Aladdin’s Genie collection, in addition to a second wave of their Nightmare Before Christmas products, the Gifting and Homewares line is going from strength to strength.

Loungefly, Funko’s premium collection of bags, wallets and accessories will continue to be a big focus for the brand in 2019.

Existing licenses, such as Disney, Marvel, Star Wars and Overwatch will be joined by exciting new collections and licenses perfect for fashionable Funko fans. Loungefly’s distinctive and eye-catching designs and prints are already proving to be a hit in the EMEA market, and the high-quality materials and intricate details make these the perfect gifts for fans who want a subtle look to their pop culture interests.

Fact!

Loungefly gifts, which include wallets, handbags, accessories and more, are perfect for fans who want a subtle look reflecting their pop culture interests.

110

Juratoys 0208 878 2133 www.juratoys.co.uk

Hall 5 Stand G64

New Year – new look!

This year at Spring Fair, you will see a completely new look from Juratoys UK. Juratoys has worked for months on a new and improved stand design to really show off the 200 new products they have to offer for the new year.

Their design teams in France have put together a completely new range for 2019, across both Janod and Kaloo, which Juratoys is really excited about.

Whilst the distinct French design shows through, they have taken into account new trends and colours for 2019 and they are really proud of the new product they have to offer this year.

Kaloo brings you into tropical lands with this fun, new and colourful activity range. Discover Alban the sweet toucan and Sam the adorable monkey on each of the 13 references. This activity range stands out with its cute and exotic characters, fresh colours and textures, and wide range of activities.

Each product was designed to promote child development, whether it was to strengthen little ones’ teeth, enhance cognitive abilities, or support with sensory development.

Children will love to play and develop their senses!

Within Janod, Juratoys is adding many new ranges to the 2019 collection, including a gorgeous new collection of wooden toys suitable for babies aged 12 months plus, called Pure. This is a collection inspired by a Scandinavian trend using pastel colours, natural wood and a gender-neutral theme, which they know to be important to the consumer.

Did you know…

Pure, the new collection of wooden toys for babies aged 12 months plus, was inspired by a Scandinavian trend. It uses pastel colours, natural wood and a gender-neutral theme.

ToysandPlaythings amscan SF ad.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

11/12/2018

12:24

Toys at Spring Fair

Great Gizmos 01293 543221 www.ggtrade.co.uk

Fully coded!

Hall 5 Stand F30-G31

Great Gizmos will be showcasing loads of new products at Spring Fair, with exciting additions to 4M, Avenir, Barney and Buddy, and the introduction of new brands, Monkey Business and Tower Kids.

In a completely new direction for 4M, kids can discover how fun and easy it is to code with the groundbreaking Code A Maze. Children from the age of three can intuitively learn coding skills by choosing a challenge and navigating their robots around the board using the arrow cards on the ‘snap-to-code’ patented technology.

The incredibly popular Mould and Paint range has a new addition; Mould and Paint Zoo Animals. Kids can mould six different zoo animals and decorate them with the paints included. The cute characters can then be turned into magnets or badges!

The science category is evolving, with new introductions that combine the elements of STREAM, encouraging fun learning. Deluxe Kitchen Science allows kids to discover the fun and excitement of science in everyday life.

The kit includes over 30 interesting experiments, such as a fruit-powered clock! Deluxe Magnet Exploration contains over 40 components for fun experiments and games, including a super magnet racer.

The Avenir range is also expanding. Perfect for children aged 5+, these craft boxes make the perfect gifts. Ocean World Shrinky has everything you need to make cute shrinky designs that can be turned into jewellery and more. Make cute fuzzy animals with the Pom Pom Children can intuitively learn Animals kit and create colourful animals with Wild Animals Scratch. coding skills from the age of three New to the Barney and Buddy range is a selection of craft kits, with Code A Maze, Great Gizmos’ including the Make Your Own Unicorn kit, which contains everything you need to make your very own plush character! new revolution, which uses ‘snap

Did you know…

to code’ patented technology to navigate robots!

Ravensburger 01869 363 800 www.ravensburger.com

Hall 5 Stand H32

On Trax for success The GraviTrax Starter set is tipped to be Ravensburger’s best selling item of 2019. GraviTrax is developing into a standalone category; there will be eight new items launched in AW 2019.

2018 saw Ravensburger’s seventh consecutive year of growth, and they plan to grow again in 2019, with increased marketing spend, digital campaigns and TV advertising.

There will be almost 200 products to discover at Toy Fair, including children’s puzzles. The multi-award winning Peppa Pig range has been hugely successful, with more exciting products set for AW 2019. There are also new designs for Thomas and Friends, PJ Masks, Bing Bunny and Disney, plus exciting movie products – How to Train your Dragon 3, Secret Life of Pets 2, Toy Story 4, Frozen 2. Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, Spirit, Rusty Rivets, That’s Not My…, Enchantimals,

112

Guess what…

The GraviTrax Starter set is tipped to be Ravensburger’s best-selling item of 2019.

Top Wing and School of Roars have also been added to Ravensburger’s collection of the UK’s most popular licences.

Adult puzzles show growth of 19 per cent YTD, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to UK specific development and its selection of the best international images. The 80 new titles for 2019 reflect British consumer tastes and deliver fresh ideas to attract new consumers to the puzzle market.

3D Puzzle remains an important category, and will be supported by new TV spots and digital content. Key products are vehicles (Porsche 911; Harry Potter Night Bus), iconic landmarks with lights, stylish storage sneakers and licensed balls in various formats and licences, including Frozen 2 and Harry Potter designs.

Games have enjoyed a positive year, with over 29 per cent growth and similar growth planned for 2019, supported by a TV-focused media spend. Disney Villainous, Harry Potter Labyrinth, Harry Potter Pictopia, and Break Free are amongst key items available now, with launches planned for AW 2019.

Finally, BRIO has had another great year of growth and 15 new products will be launched for SS 2019, with more new additions for AW 2019.

Other gifting licenses include Toy Story, Aladdin and many moreâ&#x20AC;¦

COME AND VISIT US! STAND 6J32 THE LARGEST LICENSE IN THE INDUSTRY!

For any queries please contact us via email at inquiriesuk@funko.com Follow us for more exciting product updates!

FunkoEurope

Funko_Europe

Funko_Europe

Toys at Spring Fair Hall 5 Stand K10-L11, L10

Premier Halloween 020 8624 5555 www.premierdec.com

Hall 5 Stand E112-F113

Bringing the X Factor Wilton Bradley 01626 835400 www.wiltonbradley.com Wilton Bradley returns to Spring Fair with an everexpanding range of new products and brands for retailers to see.

The focus for 2019’s range has been to evolve products within existing brands at more competitive price points and targeting a younger age group, whilst also further developing categories that have been a success in the current market.

The new Mi-Mic and The X Factor range introduces new Mi-Mic Mini and The X Factor XF1S models which have the same fun features as the best-selling Mi-Mic range but in a more compact size, so family members of all ages can join in the fun.

The RC brand Monster Smash Ups also presents two smaller all-exploding trucks to the range, at more competitive price points for those younger smash enthusiasts.

Following the success of the Xootz Viper Go Kart, Wilton Bradley’s focus 2019 brings the release of the for 2019 has been to Typhoon Power Drift Trike. evolve products within This new design evolves the existing brands at stylish look of the Viper and more competitive price brings more action-packed points and targeting fun to the range.

Wilton Bradley will also be a younger age group, showcasing their beach stand whilst also further this year with their Yello, UB developing successful and Osprey brands and their categories. new VW licensed range.

The Osprey range includes a brand-new range of wetsuits called the Zero - a higher spec wetsuit, with a new, stylish design. This range includes the brand new 6mm wetsuit, the first affordable suit of its kind. Then the Official VW Licensed range brings iconic Volkswagen Retro Campervan and Beatle styling to Wilton Bradley’s most popular beach, festival and camping products.

Finally, a selection of the Lay-Z-Spa range will be at Spring Fair. The entry-level Miami, the brand-new Helsinki and top of the range Maldives HydroJet Pro will all be on display.

These products from Wilton Bradley can be seen at Spring Fair or by making an appointment at their UK showroom.

Fact!

Seriously spooky Premier Decorations Limited is delighted to launch its 2019 Halloween Collection, which is packed with a selection of exciting new products.

In response to customer feedback, they have expanded their family friendly ranges and reintroduced some of their spookier collection. With close to a 1000 products, there is plenty within the 2019 range to cover a wide variety of tastes and markets.

As reported in trade press, Halloween 2018 was a one of the most successful years, where retailers reported an unexpected increase in demand, leading to many lines being sold out entirely. It is without doubt that the Halloween Festival is becoming an increasingly popular event. The visual impact of merchandising and the dramatic effect of in-store Halloween displays fuel customer excitement to participate in the festival. Be sure to check out Premier’s merchandising solutions, which include gondolas, stands and pre-merchandised FSDUs. Be sure to visit Premier’s stand to view the entire range in its full glory. Alternatively, showrooms visits are also welcomed in Ruislip or Wrexham.

Fact!

Halloween is becoming an increasingly popular event. Halloween 2018 was a one of the most successful years to date, leading to many lines selling out.

114

PLAY DIFFERENT…..

With Janod

32 High Park Road, Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 4BH • United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)20 8878 2133

Come and visit us at Spring Fair Stand 5G64

Toys at Spring Fair Amscan International 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk

Hall 5 Stand J110-K111

Party people For retailers looking for exciting, on-trend party, balloon and costume ranges, head to the Amscan stand in Hall 5. The leading supplier will be showcasing an array of new ensembles for 2019, including generic designs and new licensed options. Together with the launch of new product ranges, Amscan will also be displaying their refreshed company branding.

Joining their party offering are over 20 new ranges, including a stylish collection of Rose Gold Blush decorations, ideal for celebrations, such as birthdays and baby showers.

Items include a personalisable pennant banner to add any message for the special occasion. Nerf fans will not want to miss Amscan’s new licensed party collection, containing everything required for an action-packed celebration.

Amscan also has some stunning new balloons joining the collection for 2019.

New licenses include L.O.L. Surprise!,

Nickelodeon’s Rusty Rivets, Enchantimals and Disney’s Vampirina to name but a few.

With Llamas and Flamingos both still a popular trend, look out for the fabulous new AirWalker balloons that make a wonderful party statement! Don’t miss the mesmerising new Ombre Orbz balloons, which are available in seven eye-catching colourways. These are sure to be a hugely popular addition at celebrations everywhere.

That’s not all; the costume collection has also been expanded to include exciting new licenses such as Dr. Seuss, featuring The Cat in the Hat, The Grinch and Thing 1 and Thing 2, all perfect for World Book Day in March. Amscan’s collection of Ride On costumes make great gifts and can keep Joining the party children entertained for hours. for Amscan in Recent additions include a llama, 2019 are over 20 peacock, pink dragon and digger, new ranges! ready to order now.

Fact:

Keel Toys

Ahh factor!

There have been some great new emerging colour schemes and fabric trends, which will grow further in 2019. The trend of rose gold and soft fluorescents has been incorporated into Animotsu, with a new assorted selection of Elephant, Unicorn, Bear and Chihuahua in 15cm and 25cm.

New for 2019 are the Glittermotsu ranges, finished in iridescent sequins in three product mixes, with characters including Penguin, Unicorn, Dinosaur, Bear, Elephant and Monkey. Stroke the sequins to reveal the contrasting colour.

The ranges will add glitter to your sales. New puppy eyes in Keel Toys Cuddle Puppies make them a breed apart. Each eye is bespoke to the breed of dog in size and colour including blue, green and brown variations. With weighted paws and a floppy body, Keel Toys have ensured the play value and ‘ahh’ factor. There are 12 designs in the 25cm size presented in a floor display, which also feature collars, which are purchased separately. Larger versions are available in 32cm, 37cm, and 47cm sizes. To complete the Cuddle Puppies there are 12 Standing Puppies

116

01233 506363 www.keeltoys.com

Hall 5 Stand E40-F41

with lead. Pugsley the cutest pug of them all has some great new outfits for 2019 including a rainbow unicorn and leopard onesie. Keel Toys’ love the pastel pink and rose gold finish that is featured in the new Confetti range of eclectic animals including Llama, Unicorn, Cat, Mouse, Polar and Hedgehog, each featuring a pink tutu and princess crown. Pippins, the loveable fun-sized pets, have been updated with new characters and a fresh look.

New floor and counter displays, incorporating Prussian blue and mustard hues, are a nod to the trend of 1970’s palettes seen in the gift world for 2019. For Hugg’ems, launched in 2018, Keel Toys have developed a new mini version. In eight characters, the Mini Hugg’ems are available in a counter display or in the new floor stand that incorporates all three sizes of Hugg’ems. Christmas 2019 will feature iridescent sequins in Glittermotsu festive characters. Pugsley the beloved pug will once again dress for the season in some new outfits.

RAV_TnP_HalfPage_Jan2019_FINAL.pdf

DISCOVER

1

11/12/2018

09:55

Iconic nic shaped 3D Puzzles

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

12524 Buckingham Palace 3D Puzzle® Night Edition

CMY

K

Discover more

Toy Fair E140

12528 Porsche 911 3D Puzzle®

Tel: 01869 363800 sales@ravensburger.com

Spring Fair 5H42

Toys at Spring Fair Hall 5 Stand K100

Use your head Pretend to Bee 0115 921 5690 www.pretendtobee.com Pretend to Bee will extend their dress up ranges in 2019 with the addition of new headband accessory sets, which will be launched exclusively at Spring Fair.

The brand new Pet Headbands are made from highquality fabrics and allow children to choose their favourite pet to pretend to be. The impulse price point is a great way for retailers to incorporate dress up! The new ranges can be viewed in full at the show.

There will also be updates to existing lines next year and the best-selling Postie and Policeman costumes have been revamped with new details added.

Pretend to Bee successfully added the baby and toddler costumes to their Natural History Museum range in AW 2018; marketing activity throughout 2019 will support this range. Thunderbirds are Go! also continues to be one of the company’s most popular collections and new programming will ensure the ranges popularity through 2019 and beyond.

Did you know…

Pretend to Bee are launching Pet Headbands that will allow children to pretend to be their favourite pet.

Hall 5 Stand 5F88-G89

Sweet selection Posh Paws 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Posh Paws is preparing to fill its stand at Spring Fair with some of its most exciting plush ranges yet. New to the Posh Paws portfolio will be a new Love Hearts range of plush.

The Posh Paws Winnie the Pooh offering is extensive and has something for fans of all ages. The Christopher Robin official movie plush range includes Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet and Tigger in a range of sizes, each styled as per the characters on the big screen.

6

Hall 5 Stand H21

Classic characters

Rainbow Designs 01329 227300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Rainbow Designs will be adding more than 30 adorable new lines to its classic character portfolio in 2019. On show at Spring Fair are some gorgeous additions to the Classic Winnie-the-Pooh Hundred Acre Wood collection. New for 2019 is a Jiggle Winnie-the-Pooh, baby soft Booties in a gift box, and a Gift Set featuring a tactile Comfort Blanket and Ring Rattle presented in a beautifully illustrated box. For 2019, Rainbow Designs is also introducing some beautiful new Gift Sets into both the Peter Rabbit and Guess How Much I Love You collections.

Hall 5 Stand J90-K91

A* for Asmodee!

Asmodee UK 01420 593593 www.asmodee.co.uk Asmodee UK are set to bring a can’t-miss selection of the best games on the market to Spring Fair 2019.

One of the highlights of their stand will be the introduction of a dedicated Party Games range. This brand new roster of hilarious, casual games that excel with larger groups is guaranteed to get friends and families laughing together with simple and accessible rules.

Headlining the Party Games collection is Telestrations, which is a new addition to the Asmodee catalogue for 2019! Players must sketch out a word from a secret card, then pass their drawing to their neighbour who writes down what they think the word was, before that word is passed along again for another drawing and so on. Watching a word become gradually distorted – or unexpectedly making it all the way around without any mistakes – is a sure-fire way to get the whole table in stitches.

Telestrations is joined in the range by the creative word-association game Just One, the clues and mimes of Time’s Up (in a fresh new edition focused on the UK market) and riotous dexterity-based fun of Crazy Eggz and Maki Stack.

Spring Fair attendees will also be able to check out a prototype version of a new TV-licensed game based on Tenable, the hit ITV game show! Players will be challenged to complete ‘top ten’ lists from various trivia categories.

With presence at the show from their Fun Fast Games and Modern Classics ranges as well, the Asmodee stand promises to offer something for everyone.

Must see...

Asmodee’s brand new Party Games range comprises a roster of hilarious, casual games that excel with larger groups. Games in the range are guaranteed to get friends and families laughing together.

Halloween_240x315mm_toys_n_playthings_ad_co_PRINT.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

21/12/2018

12:36

Toys at Spring Fair HALL 5 STAND H36-J37

Lots of new product The Green Board Game Co.

Hall 5 Stand 5J67

Walk on the wild side Schleich

01494 538999 www.greenboardgames.com

01279 870000 www.schleich-s.co.uk

Green Board Games will be showcasing a plethora of new and improved product this year at Spring Fair! Be sure to visit the stand to see the fresh and contemporary new look for our family favourite Flights of Fancy range. Last year, the popular Flights of Fancy nature and creative kits were all redesigned. GBG will also be showcasing a number of new additions to the award-winning, robust-selling BrainBox range. These titles will include six new licensed Disney and Roald Dahl BrainBox games, as well as two other BrainBox titles: ‘World Traveller’ and ‘Time Traveller’.

Pre-school buyers will be well catered for, with a bigger selection of products from the award-winning Fat Brain Toys range! GBG will also be presenting their two new pre-school ranges, which have been carefully designed to promote fun learning. Foot Steps (for children up to 3 years of age) and Leaps & Bounds (for children aged 3 years plus) not only offer trend-setting designs and styling for new parents and gifters, but also tick the box for encouraging imaginative play and fostering the development of motor skills, memory, hand-eye coordination and more!

Hand-painted animals from Farm World and Wild Life, horses and riders from Horse Club, and the ranges of Dinosaurs and Unicorns make Schleich a must-have brand for gift buyers. The world of Wild Life is perfect for zoos and wildlife attractions and has some exotic new species added to the line-up. The Komodo Dragon from Indonesia and Australia’s Quokka join the Ring-Tailed Lemur in the 2019 range, which also includes the Okapi, the animal that was voted for by Schleich’s fans. Plus, for added play appeal the Schleich Wild Life Flash Cards are a combination of intricate figurine and double-sided flash cards for a simple game of find and match.

HALL 5 STAND L53

Plenty to play with...

Playmobil

01268 54811 www.playmobil.co.uk Playmobil will launch a wide range of exciting and innovative new toys at Spring Fair, with new additions promised to its figures, playsets and licensed ranges.

Pocket-money favourites Playmo-Friends will see new characters join its hugely popular cast while fans of Playmobil Fi?ures surprise bags will be able to take their pick from 24 fresh designs. New additions to the Playmobil universe include the Playmobil City Life Tiny Paws Pet Hotel. For aspiring astronauts, endless galactic adventures are guaranteed during each voyage on the Playmobil Mission to Mars Space Station. Small world play lovers can create the perfect holiday, time and again, with the Playmobil Family Fun Summer Villa.

The ultimate small world play gift, Playmobil allows children to discover the universe in miniature.

To add to the excitement, life-sized Playmobil figures will be making a debut on the stand!

120

HALL 5 STAND H50

Lots to see Marbel

0845 6000 marbel.co.uk

286

Attending Spring Fair? Then visit Marbel for a closer look at a fantastic selection of new product launches from brands, such as Hape, Relevant Play, Nanoblock and Kathe Kruse, as well as new arrivals, Nebulous Stars and Eureka Kids.

As one of Marbel’s latest additions for 2019, Nebulous Stars offers youngsters, aged 7 years plus, the opportunity to get involved in a unique experience that combines matters of wellbeing and positive values.

HALL 5 STAND 5H28 – J29

Big screen birds Tobar

01603 397 105 www.tobar.co.uk Bird watchers will have a field day at Spring Fair when Tobar unveils its new Angry Birds range well in time for the new movie launch in summer 2019.

The Tobar range will include pocketmoney items such as slime, and light-up gadgets such as lava lamps and night lights. Six characters will appear in the already popular Jellyball range, large squishy stress toys perfect to calm down anyone who ‘sees Red!’ Brand new Jellyballs make their debut appearance, a mixture of the popular existing squishy stress ball fruit line combined with animals! The existing popular Animigos line is extended to feature the New Born Animigos. These are baby animal versions of the existing animated plush, each with their own baby bottle.

TO B Y IRM SP BE ST IN RIN A AN G G C D H F H : A A ST 5K M IR A 1 N N 0 E D – C :5 L : L1 11 0 &

UK’S LEADING INFLATABLE COMPANY

Learn More / Request a Catalogue • Tel: 01626 835400 www.wiltonbradley.co.uk • Email: sales@wiltonbradley.co.uk

New Products In character CiD Ltd

CID Ltd are delighted to launch a range of Harry Potter Pom Pom Beanies adding to the hugely successful headwear range already on offer. The new designs include the classic Hogwarts House crests across several colourways along with a Platform 9 ¾ hat.

CID Ltd, the Leicester based apparel company, have an unrivalled collection of t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags and jackets for Harry Potter, which continues to be one of the best-selling franchise in 2019.

Last year saw CID Ltd launch a brand new range of tote bags that received widespread acclaim due to imagery, pricing and sell-through rate. With a world focus on reducing plastic bags the recycled Tote Bags have never sold better and are set to increase this year. This spring will see additional designs being launched to sit alongside an unrivalled collection of officially licensed character and music t-shirts, hoodies, headwear and jackets.

Call: 0116 2844750 Email: salesteam@cidmerch.com Visit: cidmerch.com

Say it with a personalised label

Digital label printing has allowed the personalised gift market to flourish, and label.co.uk can help you stand out from the crowd.

When it comes to gifting, personalisation is a huge trend, adding an extra dimension to a product. Digital label printing specialist label.co.uk can offer that extra personalised wow factor, helping you produce unique labels with ease and cost-effectiveness.

Take their work with gifting and fulfilment company Intervino, who offer personalisation on beers, prosecco, champagnes, spirits and wine as part of their Letterbox Wine by Intervino range. These are specially designed, recyclable PETG bottles that are perfectly sized to fit through a standard UK letterbox whilst still containing a full 750ml of red, white or rose wine.

‘The use of technology and digital printing effectively means each gift can be unique to the recipient,’ says Amy Lennox, Sales Director at Intervino. ‘label.co.uk has been a great support with our wine labels and offer embellishment options, such as hot foiling, that we can not produce ourselves in-house.’

It’s good to know that whatever you want to say there is a label that can do just that. Make your message count and show your customers that you care. Get in touch with label.co.uk to discover what they can do for you.

Call: 0203 588 1080 Email: info@label.co.uk Visit: label.co.uk

Jazzy Journals Joe Davies

Bright fun journals are always a huge hit within the gift market. This vibrant collection from Joe Davies is both eye-catching and practical.

The journals come in an array of finishes including metallic inks, spot gloss varnish and feature current on trend design and patterns. They are made with high quality paper and are all supplied in a stylish counter display unit for easy display.

This fabulous collection will be displayed on Joe Davies’ spacious Spring Fair stand alongside over 8000 exciting gift lines. Buying is easy as everything is available in ‘little and often’ quantities with carriage paid orders of just £100 and free nationwide delivery. Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, Hall 5, Stand D50/E51 Call: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: joedavies.co.uk

122 gifts today

7th - 9th April 2019 The original fair for authentic British design-led gifts and homeware Stand enquiries info@bctf.co.uk Register as a buyer www.bctf.co.uk

New Products Feeling pretty

Create your own perfect paradise this season with all of the prettiest things from Katie Loxton and Joma Jewellery’s spring/ summer 2019 collections. There are some seriously stylish newadditions, from small accessories, sparkling jewellery, perfect gifts and statement pieces that will have you spoilt for choice!

This season each stunning collection is sure to give you a touch of sparkle and provide you with the sweetest, most sentimental gifts for every occasion, and with Mother’s Day just around the corner, discover precious treats that every marvellous Mum will treasure forever.

Perfect pouches Katie Loxton Katie Loxton’s Perfect Pouches are back once again with beautiful new additions, and this season they’re radiating a sunny glow with luxurious metallic finishes, designed to have you shining through every day. As well as these gorgeous additions, a new collection of beautiful, contemporary Perfect Pouches have been crafted from a supple pebble textured material. These must-have Soft Pebble Perfect Pouches are finished with a gold logo bar and come in array of beautiful hues, a sure star of the season! As versatile as can be, every Perfect Pouch can be used as a classic clutch, a little life organiser, the perfect handbag compartment or the chicest travel wallet … the possibilities

are endless! Whatever purpose your Perfect Pouch holds, fall in love with all of the beautiful new designs today.

Email: enquiries@katieloxton.com Visit: katieloxton.com

Sentimental Joma Jewellery As always, sentiment is at the heart of all of the Joma Jewellery collections and each piece is carefully designed to carry a little piece of happiness and meaning. With gifting at their heart, every occasion is covered, full of beautiful treasures to cherish forever. The bestselling and most sentimental ‘A Little’ collection is back with some gorgeous new additions for the new season, including shining new summer pieces, sure to fill every day with a little sunshine and sparkle. From ‘A Little’ Adventure Awaits to ‘A Little’ Ray of Sunshine, each summer design is complete with glowing gold foil finished cards, sure to brighten even the cloudiest of days.

Email: enquiries@jomajewellery.com Visit: jomajewellery.com

Soft cuddly friends So Steiff St

M Margarete Steiff GmbH takes enormous pride knowing they have always remained at the fforefront of the Toy Industry. Not only did they gift children the very first soft toy in 1880 but they took the Toy Industry and indeed the world by storm with their inspirational invention, the teddy bear, in 1902. Today the company embraces its history, and in doing so embraces innovation, imagination and perfection.

In the summer of 2017, the company’s new Soft Cuddly Friends range was launched resulting in many children around the world enjoying and adoring a new exciting range of toys from Steiff. The company’s new Soft Cuddly Friends embrace all the ingredients that made Steiff famous – ultra-high quality materials, intricate hand craftsmanship, and the m famous Button in Ear – in a fresh new collection of contemporary styles designed to appeal to fam today’s children. toda fabulous characters held the coming out party for Soft Cuddly Friends and in only 18 months Six fa the range now boasts over 25 designs, all in a multitude of colours and sizes and a little something extra! With gift gif boxing available and price points starting at £15 retail, it is no surprise to see why these new kids in town are such a big hit across ross the world.

Steiff has pursued excellence with determination, fuelled by their guiding principle ‘Only the best is good enough for our children’. Soft Cuddly Friends illustrates once more the company’s motivation and drive for innovation within the Toy Industry. y.

Not only can children cuddle up to their favourite soft toy, they can keep them m close, always, on their phone. Soft Cuddly Friends have their own emojis.

Imagine the fun personalising your messages with your favourite character!

So you really will become inseparable from your favourite Steiff friend! A simple link will enable Soft Cuddly Friends emojis to be downloaded to the phone.

Call: 01483 266643 Email: leyla.maniera@steiff.com Visit: steiff.com

124 gifts today

Julie Dodsworth

Trust yourself!

When running your own business, trust your own intuition. It’s impossible to please everyone, no matter what you do!

A

Julie Dodsworth is a British artisan whose lifelong business in her plant and display company gave birth to her homeware business in more recent years.

Gifts Today has invited Julie to share with us her inspirations, the great ideas of others she meets along the way and what she feels has been amazing advice in business.

126 gifts today

head of Spring Fair, I thought I’d share this lovely story I was told at a business event I attended at the New Year.

A very young boy, an elderly frail gentleman lived in the hills with their donkey. They decided one day all three would make a journey down to the village. The old gentleman rode the donkey and the little boy walked alongside. At the very first house, they passed some women at their gate. They pointed and gossiped that it was cruel to make the boy walk. So the old man and little boy changed places and the boy rode the donkey.

At the next house the people pointed again and said how cruel to have the frail old man walking whilst the boy rode, so they decided this time to both walk. At the crossroads the villagers laughed again and said what a waste of a donkey with the two walking. With this last accusation they both tried to ride the donkey together only to be met at the town square by folks shouting they were being cruel to the donkey. The old gentleman and little boy had run out of ideas and decided to try and carry the donkey - they were ridiculed all the way home.

I know in our own business we have potential old men, little boy donkey scenarios every and do day of the week. Deciding what is best to do when you have multiple options h takes take a sensible head to be sure su we never lose the plot! plot Most of all it is the avoidance of multiple avo opinions that is key. opi For F Beth, Simon, the team tea and I, delineation of decisions and duties works beautifully for w our o family business.

A clear, total selfresponsibility to r

different tasks works a treat.

For a ‘donkey’ experiment, I decided to throw something that is usually my domain wide open to the rest of the team. I usually focus all my efforts on the design and packaging of our lovely fragrance products, and so I asked the

“

Your first idea will probably be your best!

”

team their thoughts on my new hand cream box. I presented the prototype and kindly asked for their comments.

I ended up with six different opinions, ranging from adding gold leaf, using simple brown paper packaging to having no box at all!

Confused by so much randomness, it became clear to me that my hand cream box was soon going to be the donkey I was going to carry home.

Of course you could consider that all the suggestions had merit but, the truth is, none of the team carry my knowledge of cost of packaging/ inks/finishes, how colours must fit with the wider collections and the tried and tested formats that were already working for our lovely collaborations. And so I realised I needed to trust my own judgement.

And so fellow gift heroes, stay strong with your visions and direction because life really is too short to go down every single avenue! And remember - your first idea will probably be your best!