Gifts Today

Supporting your industry for 28 years Gift's Today Front Cover July 17.pdf 1 12/06/2017 15:02:05

Month: July 2017 Issue: 7

Independently audited ABC circulation of 7,093 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

Volume: 28

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1,000’S PRODUCTS NEW PRODUCTS LAUNCHED EVERY WEEK

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INDUSTRY LEADING SERVICE A FRIENDLY, NO QUIBBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM

Personalised

Silver and Rose Gold Jewellery

DROPSHIP FAST, RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT DROPSHIP SERVICE.

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Contents July 2017

Regulars 8 12 16 20 88 122

News Exhibition News Giftware Association News Licensing News Ross Hewitt’s Social Media Julie Dodsworth

Retail 24 Shop London We take a peek inside some of the Capital’s most beautiful gift shops

28 ZSL Buying & Merchandising Manager Tracie Nesham explains how she and her team successfully combine conservation, education and commerce

32

Trade Talk Leading figures in the gift industry talk trends, gifts and Harrogate

Gifts Today team

112 Retailers’ Panel Key gift shop owners talk summer buys, shows and selling strategies

p 38

Editor

Exhibitions

Sally Norton sally@lemapublishing.co.uk

30 Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

Advertisement Manager Mark Horsnell markh@lemapublishing.co.uk

Our guide to this summertime favourite

Layout/Design

114 Show Previews

Rick Vickers rickv@lemapublishing.co.uk

Top Drawer, NY NOW, Autumn Fair and more

Group Editor

120 Tendence Review

Mirella Cestaro mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Sally Norton reports back from June’s

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

show

p 28

Publisher

Profiles

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

38 Ashleigh & Burwood

Production Director

The company unveils a sensational re-imagining

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

of their brand

44 Xystos

Managing Director

New collection aims to ‘bring out your inner

Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

artisan’

86 Classic Canes

Lema Publishing Ltd

PUBLISHING

As the company celebrates 35 years, MD

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

Charlotte Gillan reminisces about growing up with the family business

Special Features

A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 7,093 July 2015 to June 2016

p 30

64 Jewellery @ Home & Gift 102 Toys & games for Gift Shops

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Message from the Editor www.gifts-today.co.uk Twitter: @giftstodaymag It really does seem that innovation and positivity are key when it comes to building our businesses.

In our July issue, we talk to our friends at Ashleigh & Burwood about their ‘sensational reimagining of the brand’ in celebration of their 25th anniversary.

It’s definitely worth popping along to their beautiful stand if you’re heading to Harrogate for Home & Gift. In the meantime, you can read more about them on page 38.

Another company that constantly impresses me with its forwardlooking attitude is Xystos, who will be unveiling several new ranges and line extensions on their huge flame and fragrance stand at Harrogate.

You can get a head start on what they’re doing by turning to page 44.

This fresh thinking is also in evidence in my interview with Tracie Nesham, Buying & Merchandising Manager for the Zoological Society of London’s shops. During my chat with her, I discovered how she and her team manage to so successfully combine conservation, education and commerce. The key, I learnt, is to remember it’s all about the animals.

Page 86 Of course, Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival really sums all this up and I have really enjoyed putting together a special in-depth look at the show. I’ve been lucky enough to have a sneak peek at just some of the new products, collaborations and marketing opportunities you can discover at the show. As Show Director Cleere Scamell told me: ‘there’s a real spirit in Harrogate during the Festival. It’s one of the very few B2B events that people really look forward to. Everyone usually arrives in a good mood and we just get on with it and do what we’re all about – which is buying.’ I hope to see you there.

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Ava & I collection from Creative Tops

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

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Every challenge is also an opportunity

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o here we are, at the height of summer with the second half of the buying year ahead of us. I’m just back from an exciting couple of days at Tendence and am now preparing for the Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival. I don’t know about you, but there’s definitely that end-of-the-schoolterm feeling in the air – so much to do, yet a desire to take a breather for just a moment.

Speaking of schools, I’ve just caught up on this week’s newsletter from my daughter’s secondary school. In this one, as usual, there are news items celebrating the positivity, creativity and resilience of the students. And, as I read this week’s Page 30 email talking about youngsters’ great attitudes as they prepare for exams, sporting and drama events, it struck me that I see the same qualities at play every day in the gift industry.

For, even in the trickiest political and economic times, we see companies everywhere creating new products, diversifying, building relationships, and just getting on with business. As Charlotte Gillan, MD of Classics Canes says: ‘Every challenge is also an opportunity.’ With her company celebrating 35 years in business, she certainly knows what she’s talking about and I was so pleased to share her story with you in this issue on page 86.

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NEWS

Gibsons are in pieces The independent jigsaw puzzle and board game company held their first sponsored puzzle-a-thon in May in order to raise money for Jigsaw4u, the community-based charity which helps children who have been affected by complex social, emotional and bereavement issues.

The Gibsons team managed to complete ten and a half 500-piece puzzles in just six hours which was fuelled by coffee, cakes from the sponsored bake sale and many well-known, puzzle piece themed songs such as Razorlight’s ‘Before I Fall to Pieces’ and Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Jigsaw Puzzle Blues’! The final donation figure came to £300 which the company has matched, taking the total raised to £600.

‘Our Puzzle-a-thon was a great success,’ says Managing Director Kate Gibson. ‘It was so lovely to see the joy of jigsaw puzzles bring people together for such a worthy cause and we can’t wait to do it again!’

Clintons urge us to celebrate Turkey Lovers’ Month The national card and gift retailer are encouraging consumers to celebrate a whole host of unusual occasions by sending a card. One such example is Turkey Lovers’ Month, Accordion Awareness Month and Potty Training Awareness Month.

Tim Fairs, a director at Clintons, says: ‘I can’t promise that Clintons has a card for each of these occasions, but we do have blank cards that can be adapted – and of course for occasions like Father’s Day we have several hundred options in our stores this year.’

An American Tale GA member Laura Darrington won the Christmas Seasonal award at the prestigious LOUIE awards, nicknamed The Oscars of Greetings Cards. Laura and BD Manager Ross Harrison headed to New York to collect the award at a ceremony held in the Edison Ballroom, just off Times Square. Said Laura: ‘It was hugely unexpected but very satisfying nevertheless to know our product translates well over the pond. We are absolutely delighted and enjoyed the whole experience of an American Awards gala.’

Elf n Safety goes mobile Elves Behavin’ Badly are hitting the roads of Britain on PMS’s 18-tonne lorry. The huge 30ft (9.5m) poster is sailing up and down the roads of Britain on the side of an 18-tonne lorry to keep their festive elves in full view.

The elf craze started life a couple of years ago as animated humour and creative fun aimed at entertaining young children throughout December, and has escalated into a Christmas phenomenon of folk creating daft poses for their elves each day.

The increasing popularity of the elf tradition, coupled with the limited availability of elf dolls and associated merchandise in the UK market has culminated in PMS International Group introducing their exclusive Elves Behavin’ Badly range of elf dolls, accessories, games and novelties, to help the elves go about their mischief making and also to inspire even more creative scenes.

Apart from their vinyl-faced dolls, PMS are also offering a range of plush elves, bendable dolls, incredibly cute baby elves and an unrivalled range of elf accessories, all heavily branded in coordinated artwork.

They are supporting their brand with a nationwide publicity and marketing campaign – starting with the lorry livery – and their own website and Facebook pages exclusively devoted to Elves Behavin’ Badly.

While PMS only sell to the trade, their extended marketing programme will also target the consumer in due course. pmsinternational.com

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www.aromatize.co.uk Tel: 01254 300268 Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk

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NEWS

A mudder charity race for Price’s The team took part in the Race for Life Pretty Muddy 5k in Northampton on June 3, raising valuable funds for Cancer Research UK. They

scrambled over the A-Frame, crawled through the mud pit - all in the aid of a brilliant charity.

The team from Price’s Candles raised £1,283.02 (plus £220 Gift Aid) for Cancer Research. ‘It was great fun and for a good cause. We will definitely be doing it again next year,’ says Nicky Dawson. prices-candles.co.uk

Sgt. Pepper store popped up in Liverpool The special store opening and special events celebrated the 50th anniversary of the groundbreaking album. Running from 25 May - 11 June at 1 Mathew Street in Liverpool, the shop featured loads of exclusive Sgt. Pepper related products including apparel, gifts, prints and of course, music. There was a special opening at 12 midnight 2am on the 26 May in order for fans to be the first to buy the anniversary editions of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band including the super deluxe box set which was sold in an exclusive tote bag only available with purchase at the store. Also on sale were 500 copies of The Beatles’ single ‘Penny Lane/Strawberry Fields Forever’ in a custom Sgt. Pepper striped paper bag.

Portmeirion Group’s window winners The competition celebrated the success of Royal Worcester Wrendale Designs collection. Judges deciding the six winners included Hannah Dale, founder and designer of Wrendale Designs and Phil Atherton, Portmeirion Group’s Sales & Marketing Director.

Due to the high standard of the window and in-store displays, it was unanimously decided by the judges that, on top of the six winners, all participating stores should receive a prize and three extra stores would be highly commended.

Hannah Dale said: ‘What a fantastic response we had from our retailers! We had 28 entries and each and every one was absolutely brilliant. The standard was so high it made judging very difficult indeed, so much so that we decided to send a prize to all the entries. The six winning stores showed real creative talent. I was truly blown away.’

After much deliberation, the judging panel decided on the six winners: Heart of the Home, The Hollies Farm Shop, Bromley & Co, Webbs of Tenterden, Potters Cookshop and Prillys Pantry. They were all awarded £300 worth of Royal Worcester Wrendale Designs stock, £100 Portmeirion Group vouchers for the team who created the display and a ‘winner’ certificate. royalworcester.co.uk 10 gifts today

Showtime for Lesser & Pavey The company are holding a July show to launch new ranges this summer.

Launches include a range called Exotic Cream Art, which includes Buddhas, elephants and skulls, all made in resin. This range has also had the Exotic Black Art added to it, each piece featuring antique paint finish and sold individually boxed in a classic gift box with appropriate labelling to depict the range.

Focusing on the current trend for monogramming, Lesser & Pavey will also be launching the ‘Initially Yours’ fine mug range. Each fine china mug has a letter on it and comes individually boxed in an open fronted window box.

• Show runs from 10-23 July, including weekends.

• Air-conditioned showrooms.

• 6,000 sq. ft. showroom just off the M25 in Kent.

• Over 4,500 new products, covering quality and innovative gifts, homewares, tabletop, stationery, glassware, photograph frames, lifestyle pieces, reading glasses, fashion accessories, occasions, bespoke opportunities.

Jonny Greves, Buyer & Key Accounts Manager for Lesser and Pavey Ltd says: ‘We will use this showcase to launch our second half of the year new ranges and enable buyers to make an appointment throughout the week and weekend so that they can be assured of one to one service from our experienced team.’

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

One month before Christmas,

are coming to town

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exhibition news

It’s beginning to look a lot like… …Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn What buyers said about Pulse ‘The focus on emerging designers provides something that we know our customers won’t have seen before. Products are really specialist and niche.’

Jane Hall, Buyer, Snape Maltings, Suffolk.

• Over 150 designer makers exhibited, including Bhavin Taylor Design, Promises Promises, Jacqueline Colley, Bird Brain and James Barker.

‘I really like Pulse because I find people I’ve never seen before.

One of my main interests is the new brands. The show is more intimate and well edited, which makes my buying experience a lot easier.’

Paul Jardine, Darbymade.com

Christmas seems to come earlier each year but, as a retailer, it’s good to be organised. With bookings up on last year and a successful tourist season predicted, it’s hoped the show will be at full capacity this year. Over 130 exhibitors are all set to offer a great variety of gifts, homewares, jewellery, accessories, and food and drink gifts. New to the show are: • Ty, the big beanie toy specialists • Sandia Silver’s exquisite jewellery • White Rabbit skincare • House of Tweed Mark Saunders, MD of Springboard Events, who organises the show said: ‘Our Autumn Show provides the perfect platform for restocking for the frantic Christmas retail season. There is an excellent mix of really interesting exhibitors with gifts for all retailers from clothes to food, accessories to homewares.’

• Show runs 17-18 September • SECC, Glasgow scotlandstradefairs.co.uk

• A highlight of the show was the Pulse Awards, celebrating the best in innovation and design. A new award was unveiled this year – the People’s Choice Award.

It was won by the handpainted Bowie Doorstop from Wedgi (above).

‘I find it more intimate that other trade shows, and more curated, which means the quality is amazing. It really is an interesting day out.’

Stuart Delahoy, Set Design Limited • The show which ran from 14-16 May at London’s Olympia, offered inspiring new gifts, modern living and fashion accessories. It returns next year from 15-18 May 2018. pulse-london.com

It takes two ICHF Events, leading lifestyle, craft and cake events’ organiser, has strengthened the team with two new creative development appointments.

Emma Leamon and Jodie Firmin are the company’s new Creative Development Managers, focusing on the creative presentation and content of the shows to meet the changing expectations of audiences and potential audiences. Jodie and Emma will work closely together using their own creative skills to ensure the shows mirror industry trends and changes. Emma has a photography and visual arts background as well as experience working for ICHF events, liaising closely with exhibitors. Meanwhile, Jodie has extensive experience in the events industry.

ICHF events organise more than 25 shows in the UK each year including CHSI Stitches, Europe’s No 1 trade show for the art, craft, needlecraft, fabric and hobby industry. ichf.co.uk

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exhibition news

Pam Hogg at Pure London The legendary fashion designer, DJ, rockstar and artist has been announced as the keynote speaker at July’s show.

A graduate of both the Glasgow School of Art and Royal College of Art, Pam’s work has appeared in fashion shoots for Vogue V and W Magazines and i-D to name but a few. Also a celebrated DJ, Dr Hogg has performed DJ sets for Chanel in Paris, The British Library in London, The Royal Academy Summer Show and amongst many others has played several times at the Cannes Film Festival.

Speaking on Sunday 23 July, Hogg will add to a line-up of more than 30 inspiring speakers across the three days, with a whole host of panel discussions, Q&As, trends, insights and fashion-forward catwalk shows set to further enhance the visitor experience and guide buying choices at Pure London. purelondon.com

New Director of Sales for Exclusively Shows Brook House, the organisers of Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical, have announced that Lindsey Hoyle has been appointed director of sales following the announcement that Patrick Wade will be stepping down from the role at the end of June.

Lindsey has previously held senior roles with several leading housewares brands including Le Creuset, DKB and Everywhere Global and, having spent nearly ten years in the housewares industry and six years in various buying roles, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the shows.

Will Jones, chairman of Brooke House Exhibitions and BHETA housewares director commented: ‘We are absolutely delighted that Lindsey will be joining the team. Patrick was always going to be a hard act to follow but we are confident that Lindsey’s market and commercial experience will bring an added dimension that will serve the shows well.

It is also a bonus she was able to work with Patrick on the handover and attended this year’s shows.’ exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk

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PG Live celebrated strong card market Progressive Greetings Live, the international trade show dedicated to greeting cards, was officially declared a success following two fun-filled days on 6 and 7 June.

The high-energy show got off to a strong start with former Curiosity Killed The Cat saxophonist Graeme Airth welcoming in the early birds. The friendly, enthusiastic atmosphere proved particularly conducive to business, and it wasn’t long before the aisles filled up and exhibitors were taking their first orders.

A number of exhibitors reported record-breaking numbers of orders being placed and new accounts opened, with a boost in the numbers of overseas buyers and export business proving a particular highlight. ‘I always love this show,’ said John Lewis’ buyer Lisa Rutherford. ‘It is really spirited! We have seen every single one of the 280 stands and are so impressed with the creativity out there.’

The dates for the 2018 show – the big 10th anniversary year – have been confirmed as Tuesday 5 to Wednesday 6 June 2018, so pop the date in your diary. progressivegreetingslive.com

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GA news

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

GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION Time to prepare for GDPA changes. The biggest overhaul of data protection legislation for over 25 years will introduce new requirements for how organisations process personal data.

And, before you wonder what will happen after Brexit, it’s worth knowing that all businesses will have to comply, which means it is likely we will adopt all or most of GDPR as domestic legislation. Key points to consider include: • The GDPR is going to happen and will come into effect in Q1 2018.

• You can no longer assume you have consent to send direct marketing.

You’ll need freely given, explicit consent to collect, store and use personal information.

• You’ll need opt-in consent to use personal information in any other way than was originally intended.

• Individuals now have the right to be forgotten, affecting the way you process and store data and how long you keep hold of old data.

• Companies can no longer confuse their customers. Clear wording throughout your customer journey is an absolute must.

• It will be easier than ever for consumers to make a complaint, making it straight forward for them to take legal action.

• Stronger than ever enforcement will be introduced with heavy ‘on the spot’ style fines.

The GA will be issuing regular updates on this important issue.

Henri Davis speaks at the BCTF Henri, chairman of the GA’s National Committee, spoke recently at the British Craft Trade Fair in Harrogate, offering advice for prospective suppliers, in the form of questions they should be prepared to answer.

GA enters TAF Best Practice Awards Having been a member of the Trade Association Forum (TAF) for many years, the GA has entered the Best Practice Awards, putting forward their success in the Gift of the Year competition as well as their new branding and website. The winners will be announced at a special ceremony in July – keep your fingers crossed! taforum.org

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Meet The Buyers After a hugely successful Meet the Buyer event with The Tillingdon Group of Garden centres, the GA is planning more events.

‘The event was extremely well organised and I felt the approach was really refreshing. It was great to see so many concentrated buyers in one room and to get their honest feedback,’ said India jane Interiors Ltd. ‘We are aiming to do more events like this in the future of the back of the success of this one, so watch this space,’ says Sarah Ward.

www.ga-uk.org

PRESENTS:

collection

To become a stockist of our Sophia Vintage Boutique collection visit our website or contact our sales office:

www.widdop.co.uk | 0161 688 1226 | sales@widdop.co.uk

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GA news

Happy birthday GA! Members enjoyed tea, cake and talks at the big birthday bash.

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MG moments, a cream tea, an update on the looming new data protection regulations, a 70th birthday party, membership drive and the big reveal of a revamped Gift of the Year competition were the highlights of the Giftware Association AGM which took place on 21 June.

In their biggest gathering yet, 120 members met at the Fazeley Studios in Digbeth, Birmingham, to mark the GA’s big birthday where they were treated to a full programme of seminars and networking, followed by the evening barbecue and disco – with cake!

Representing a gifts and greetings industry valued at between £220 and £390bn, the GA’s plans for the year are to make GOTY, which is coming up for its 40th anniversary, more influential as well as increase the association’s membership.

CEO Sarah Ward welcomed everyone and introduced speaker Andy Powell who talked through details of the General Data Protection Regulations where the onus for ensuring the security of all private information held falls on that business whatever the size. He explained the Government has decreed the regulations will still apply after Brexit and, while setting companies with 250 employees as the level at which a full-time compliance officer must be appointed. The new rules come into force from May 25 next year, and Andy said that, as compliance will be monitored by auditing in a similar process to financial affairs, firms must have evidence of due diligence, training, and continued monitoring.

The headline speaker was Geoff Ramm who gave an amusing and informative talk on OMG marking – Observational Marketing Greats – prompting everyone to consider different ways to capture the attention of their potential customers. Examples he gave included the photographer who got 75 out of 96 people on the visitors’ register to respond by emailing them prior to a trade show to ask their favourite chocolate, with the promise that if they responded it would be waiting for them on his stand.

Chairman Henri Davis led the AGM business side, explaining how Sarah and the team are taking the GA to

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both current and potential members by visiting more trade shows than ever, setting up the Meet the Buyer events and encouraging retailers to join too, helped by the seminars they present at shows, and columns in trade magazines such as Gifts Today.

She announced that Widdop & Co’s Andrew Illingworth has stepped down from the national committee after many years’ service, while the GA have agreed to manage the Jewellery Distributors’ Association, where Sanghat Chandhok is about to take over from John Milligan as chairman. Henri said: ‘Doing business in the sectors we represent has changed beyond recognition in the last 10 years and our relevance for our members has changed to, impacted by technology and the fact the services they valued then are not the same now.

‘We have spent the last 18 months talking to existing members and, indeed, those who have said they want to leave us, so that we understand clearly what it is they need from us in 2017.

This face-to-face approach is particularly successful as the team become recognised and start to build strong relationships with members who are exhibiting and keep up-to-date with industry trends and issues.’

Following the biggest-yet entry for the 2017 GOTY awards, Henri added: ‘We are pleased to announced the GA are going to be working with Ascential Events to develop a much bigger and more influential awards that will take it to another level,’ including a bigger and more prestigious ceremony at the end of the first day of Spring Fair. The plan is for shortlisted products and companies to benefit from significant promotion in the run up to Spring Fair through Ascential’s 300,000 reach, plus featuring on the GOTY website, along with a dedicated UK and international PR campaign, plus social media activity. The winners will be announced across all Spring Fair channels immediately at the show and in brochures available from the second day of the show.

Past chairman Michael Papé – whose family company Ravensden have been members for 33 years – closed the business part of the day with details of a new initiative where any member introducing companies and retailers as new members will receive a discount on their membership fee.

‘As of December 31, 2016,’ Michael said, ‘The GA ended the year with 670 members – we have set ourselves a target of 750 by the end of 2017. We have a non-member subscriber base of over 3,500 who receive our emails, newsletters and, ultimately, utilise our services.’

0121 236 2657 ga-uk.org giftoftheyear.co.uk

www.ga-uk.org

GIFT GIVING…all wrapped up

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Enesco Limited, Head Office & Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN. Tel: 01228 404022 email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services: Tel: +44 1228 404066 email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk. © Disney © Miss Mindy

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International Autumn Fair, NEC, Birmingham, 3rd–6th September, Hall 3, Stand 3S22-W23

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Come along and see all of our collections at the:

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licensing news

Meg Hawkins teams up with Instawrap Brian May unboxes Queen Monopoly The Queen guitarist and music legend unboxed the new licensed board game during a livestream video on Facebook. Brian said: ‘I think fans will be enchanted by the depth of detail in this special Queen edition of an already well-loved game. We have subtly morphed the traditional property-developing journey of Monopoly into the real-life adventure of a rock band on the road. Players will plot a whole career, based on developing bigger and better shows in venues all around the globe. Join us and conquer the world!’

PMC Launch Personalised Boofle Wedding Gifts The Personalised Memento Company are celebrating the newest additions to their popular licensed Boofle range – Boofle wedding! Drawing upon delicate, neutral themes and featuring everyone’s favourite lovable pup, the personalised Boofle wedding range adds a feather in PMC’s cap of licensed Boofle gifts, which now feature ranges for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, for him and for her. Each range has been carefully designed to merge unique personalisation with Boofle’s heartwarming message of love and friendship.

The new personalised Boofle wedding range features practical ‘on the day’ gifts, such as guest books and venue decorations, as well as charming keepsakes for all members of the wedding party, including personalised mugs, coaster sets, photo albums and money boxes. Each item can be personalised with a name or message, creating a one-of-a-kind gift that perfectly captures the sentiment of the bride and groom’s big day.

With an ever growing collection of personalised gifts, PMC will be showcasing highlights from their enormous range at this year’s Autumn Fair at the Birmingham NEC, as well as unveiling a new range of personalised gifts from a brand new licence. personalisedmemento.co.uk 20 gifts today

Watercolour artist Meg chose Instawrap, the revolutionary lick and stick wrapping paper, as the first company to license her stunning range of designs and art work. Speaking of the collaboration with gift wrap entrepreneurs Wrap Nation, Meg said: ‘I am really looking forward to seeing my collection of stags, robins and foxes appear on Instawrap’s Christmas gift-wrap and am excited to develop my range with Wrap Nation and grow our collaboration still further.’

Pac-Man x Rubik’s The ultimate 80s pop culture mash-up was announced at Licensing Expo. With a range of exciting designs, this collaboration will feature retro-inspired designs updated for the digital generation with hashtag slogans. The licensing program will appeal to fans of Rubik’s and PAC-MAN from back in the day and also the legions of 14-24 year olds that have gone retro crazy in the last 18 months. With a limited edition PAC-MAN branded Rubik’s Cube also in the works for retail release, the 80s revolution really is in full swing for 2017. Mike Townend Managing Director of Rubik’s Brand Limited said: ‘Rubik’s is very excited to be working with PAC-MAN and the limited edition nature of the collection should ensure instant collectability with fans.’

Ink dries on Zafari deal Ink Global has appointed Hijink as master toy licensee for Zafari, the new animation that promises to be big. Created by David Dozoretz, it tells the story of a group of friends who inhabit a land where all the resident animals have been magically born with an amalgamation of varying skins, patterns and characteristics, making each individual truly unique. Spanning plush, figurines, collectables, create and role play categories, the company will act as global manufacturer (excluding China, MENA and Japan) and will distribute the line across UK, North America, Australia and New Zealand.

Autumn Fair: Birmingham NEC 3rd - 6th September Hall 5, Stand E1

www.straitstrading.com

Tel: 01254 300260 Advert (Gifts 1Today) 2017 FINAL.indd 16 Straits.indd

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Profile - PMS International

Express your elf The Christmas elf tradition looks set to be huge this December and PMS International have got it all wrapped up with the original elf with big ears, Elves Behavin’ Badly.

C

hristmas is a time for family tradition and coming together to celebrate in your own special way. Every household marks the days until Santa’s appearance differently, but with the arrival of PMS International’s Elves Behavin’ Badly, the countdown to Christmas will never be the same again.

The Elf phenomenon exploded in the UK last year, and looks set to be absolutely huge this festive season. ‘I’ve been forty years in the business, but I’ve never seen anything like it,’ says Paul Beverley, MD of PMS International.

It started in the USA, as many things festive do.

The idea behind it is that parents create a little scene, incorporating a child’s elf, ready for them to wake up to in the morning. The children then leap out of bed in the morning, desperate to see what their elf friends has been up to. Of course, with PMS’s Elves Behavin’ Badly, this could mean spilt cereal, funny faces drawn

On the road

It’s a craze, but it’s also an evergreen

The marketing machine is already well underway as a huge Elves Behavin’ Badly lorry livery makes its way up and down the roads of Britain. At a whopping 12 ft, the sign is sure to catch the eyes of kids and parents alike!

22 gifts today

on bananas, hanging upside down on the Christmas tree – the possibilities are endless. ‘Your imagination creates the fun,’ says Paul. ‘It’s a craze, but it’s also an evergreen.’

The key characters in the range are Elfie and Elvie, who come out to to play with their friends from the first of the month up to Christmas Eve. They keep a close eye on all the children’s behaviour and report back to Santa on who’s been good and who’s been bad.

Rudie is a reindeer and is the elves’ best friend who dutifully and tirelessly pulls their sleigh and takes them home to the North Pole. Rudie needs to save his energy for the long trip back to Elfland and tries not to get up to elf mischief, despite the elves trying everything to get him into trouble.

The Elf Babies are adorably cute. Almost identical in appearance, they can only be told apart by the colour of their clothing – red, blue and pink. Enjoying their first Christmas, the elf triplets are still trying to discover their magical powers. They love to play and sometimes need help getting out of tricky situations.

They have a special talent for creeping into places they shouldn’t be.

Families are encouraged to buy one for each child – and perhaps each adult, too. And, then everyone can share all their mischief by posting photos on social media.

What started life as a bit of creative fun has now become a nationwide tradition and is as popular

I’ve been 40 years in the business, but I’ve never seen anything like it with adults as it is with children of all ages. Adults are using their elves to create scenes that are…well… a little more risqué, and then posting them on social media. You need only look on social media to see how popular they were last year, and as we gear up for Christmas 2017, PMS expects Elves Behavin’ Badly to make an even bigger impact at retail.

Paul predicts that December 2017 will be dominated by this craze. ‘It’s fun, infectious and actually it’s a lot more difficult than you may think to create an elaborate elf scene, especially one that hasn’t been constructed before,’ he says. That’s why the company are inviting customers to upload pictures of their Elves Behavin’ Badly so that they can award prizes to the most original constructed Elf scenarios.

With very affordable price points, the Elves Behavin’ Badly are fantastic impulse purchases for retailers to offer customers. A whole range of accessories means families will be back for more as they add over-sized Christmas jumpers, Elf house stickers, Elf beds and even a post box to their collections. So watch out for the Elves Behavin’ Badly and get your orders in early – you won’t forgive your elf if you miss out on this Christmas craze.

Social snaps Families are invited to share their most inventive Elves Behavin’ Badly stories online - and the results are hilarious…

Contact PMS International Tel: 01268 505050 Email: sales@pmsinternational.com Visit: pmsinternational.com gifts today 23

Shop London

Shop for inspiration Take inspiration from some of London’s most beautiful gift shops.

PENTREATH & HALL Tucked away down a quiet Georgian street, interior designer Ben Pentreath and artist Bridie Hall’s beautiful little shop is filled with treasures for the home which are quintessentially British but far from twee. Great for gifts but equally good for moments of distraction, it is a must-visit for discovering things you never knew you needed.

17 Rugby Street, WC1 pentreath-hall.com

NIDDLE NODDLE Is it a shop? Is it a playroom?

Who cares, as long as the kids are happy. Aside from the big draws (namely the play kitchen and big yellow slide in the corner), Eilidh Fraser and Katrine Camillo also furnish Niddle Noddle with pocket money playthings, nostalgic wind-up toys and lovable clothing labels you won’t find anywhere else.

5 Topsfield Parade, N8 niddlenoddle.com

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FEZ This Aladdin’s cave of well-priced Moroccan imports is like stepping into the heart of a medina without crossing the M25. Owner Omar Serroukh, who has called the Capital home since 1986, travels back to his native country three times a year to stockpile leather slippers,, hand-woven carpets, tagines and decorative lanterns to furnish his jampacked bazaar.

71 Golborne Road, W10

New products.

Fresh ideas.

More reasons to visit than ever before Register now!

Find out more and register at homeandgift.co.uk/GiftsToday

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Shop London

ROUGE For a taste of the Orient that goes beyond China Town’s lucky cats, seek out this colourful little shop.

Whether you’re in the market for an ornate vintage cabinet from Gansu or delicate handpainted ceramics, this shop is packed with authentic pieces that shopkeeper Lei Yang brings back from her native China.

158 Stoke Newington High Street, N16 rouge-shop.co.uk

LUNA & CURIOUS This independent shop on Shoreditch’s cool Calvert Avenue was opened ten years ago by a collective of young artisans – ceramicists Polly George and Kaoru Parry and jeweller Rheanna Lingham.

Their stock, which includes witty English teacups and beautiful feathered necklaces, take pride of place in their miniature department store, alongside a melting pot of fresh talent.

Architectural hoops by minimalist jeweller Jenny Sweetnam, Made in England bags from M.Hulot and lotions from social enterprise The Soap Co., which employs blind and disabled people in its East London workshop, are just a handful of the brands which have been lovingly sourced by the trio. The boutique also recently introduced its own line of knitwear and home accessories, which includes bright baby blankets and handmade scented candles. In essence, it’s a gift-hunters dream.

24-26 Calvert Avenue, E2 lunaandcurious. com 26 gifts today

PRESENT & CORR CORRECT RECT R ECT Grown-up lovers of old school stationery will find much to line their pencil cases with at Present & Correct. This meticulously organised shop in Angel, founded by graphic designers Neal Whittington and Mark Smith in 2012, specialises in sourcing iconic and retro office supplies from Europe – some of them highly practical, others just aesthetically pleasing. Hermes baby typewriters sit side-by-side with calligraphy sets, old-fashioned airmail envelopes and vintage erasers, while the ingenious keyboard brush from Berlin is ideal for sweeping out even the most deeply embedded Hula Hoop crumbs. If you need any further encouragement to overhaul your workspace, the range of Bakelite desk tidies, big brass scissors and 1970s click calendars are also guaranteed to induce colleague envy.

23 Arlington Way, EC1 presentandcorrect.com

Extracted from Shop London: An Insider’s Guide to Shopping Like a Local by Emma McCarthy. Published by Frances Lincoln, £9.99

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Retail Interview

Stocked with everything from high quality plush to a new aquariuminspired marine range, from the recently launched Little Zoo Keeper clothing line to pocket money buys that sell in their thousands, ZSL is reporting a huge uptake in sales. Sally Norton caught up with Buying & Merchandising Manager Tracie Nesham to discover just how she and her team successfully combine conservation, education and commerce, and to learn why it really is all about the animals.

Wild about shopping W

hen her seven-year-old son Freddie stood up in school and declared she was his hero, Tracie Nesham knew she was right in deciding to work for ZSL (Zoological Society of London). ‘He worships David Attenborough,’ she says, ‘and was so proud when I joined ZSL.’ Coming from a background that included fashion names Monsoon, Debenhams and Kurt Geiger, joining ZSL was a big career change for Tracie. ‘It was one of the most exciting career moves I’ve done,’ she says.

‘I’d taken some time out of work to really assess what I wanted to do, when I got a call from ZSL, asking if I’d consider an interim role as Buying and Merchandising Manager. I researched it and quickly realized how amazing it was. Then I met my line

28 gifts today

manager Kathryn England, who was so inspiring and made me feel there was so much I could do with the role.

And so I wrote a 12-month plan and before I knew it, they gave me the job permanently. That was two years ago and I haven’t looked back.’

Since then, the commercial team at ZSL has seen sales going against the trend, rising 7% over the last year. ‘We have two million customers coming through the zoos each year and they all want to spend in the shops,’ says Tracie. ‘There is more spend per transaction now, with an average transaction value of around £10, which is amazing when you consider that we have a lot of product under £10.’

ZSL London Zoo sees many tourists coming through during the week, plus lots of school trips. On Fridays the

trips tend to head for ZSL Whipsnade Zoo on the Dunstable downs in South Bedfordshire, where they’re joined by yummy mummies and their preschoolers attracted by the awardwinning Hullabazoo playground there.

Then of course, there are families during school holidays and weekends.

Tracie’s challenge is to make sure there’s something in store for everyone.

‘Some children from inner London will only have a pound to spend and we have to make sure there’s plenty of relevant items for them to buy,’ she says.

Tracie’s role covers both sites – London and Whipsnade – and a recently launched online presence with Rachel Smallwood. There are two main gift shops in each zoo, with five satellite outlets in London and two in Whipsnade. The team, including warehouse staff, comprises 15 people and includes buyer Roz Roper and junior buyer Apaksha Patel. Tracie and her team also work with a very talented

visual merchandising retail team headed up by Chris Webb in London and Simon Maples at Whipsnade. And, for all of them, the key responsibility is not just to the customer but to whom Tracie calls ‘our internal customers’ – the animals. ‘Everything we generate moneywise goes straight back in,’ she says. ‘There is no surplus. We don’t lead on profit as an organisation.’

It’s for this reason that everything in the shop is carefully thought about.

‘We live and breathe conservation and education,’ says Tracie. ‘I believe it’s essential that every single item in the shop is related to what we do as an organisation. We showcase new products to our Conservation Programmes Director to get his approval, making sure nothing controversial goes into the shops; there’s a critical path that takes anything up to nine months to make sure that a product is absolutely right and relevant before it goes in store.

‘One of the first things I did when I started was have a massive sale to clear out anything that wasn’t right for us conservationally or as a zoo.

A product has to fit with the remit of who we are. As an organisation we are really passionate about the flight of the pangolins.’ Indeed, look online at: shop.zsl.org and you’ll spot a Giant Pangolin Figure for £5, mirroring ZSL’s support for this endangered species – the only mammal in the world that is completely covered in scales.

‘By having conversations with people around our organization, we can really try to support what they’re doing in the field and in the zoos,’ says Tracie.

Tracie’s next step was to look at pricing. ‘Last year we carried out a huge price exercise to standardize all of our prices, making sure we were in line with or just under high street prices,’ she says. ‘It was essential we weren’t seen as expensive – people pay a lot of money to visit us already.

This has seen a huge uptake in sales.’

The ZSL buying team is very strategic in who they work with.

‘We deal with very ethical suppliers, like Nature Planet who only work with attractions and don’t sell to the high street at all,’ she says.

‘Our clothing supplier only exports from India, where they can trace every single component back.

The majority of our plush is made in Indonesia because we know that it’s a quality product and we can price it reasonably.’

Tracie laughs when I ask her about plush. ‘I never thought I’d say it but we get really excited about plush here,’ she says. ‘It’s our bestseller, 40% of the entire takings – huge business.

‘Sales are through the roof on hammerhead and blue sharks and we’ve sold nearly 3,000 units of a stand-alone tiger. Sloths are the most looked-for item online and so we have three different sizes. We have one tiny giraffe beanie retailing at £3 that sold 10,000 units last year.

Our beanie range is around 70,000 units a year.

Magnets do incredibly too, with our London Zoo magnet selling up to 6,000 units a year.’

However, it’s the new clothing and homeware ranges that Tracie is especially proud of.

‘One of my highlights is introducing the Little Zoo Keeper range,’ she says. ‘I suggested we created a uniform the children could go away with. We introduced hoodies, socks, shorts, caps, the entire outfit.

My son and his friends wear them the whole time. We have introduced a baby Zoo Keeper

body this year with matching socks and we’re launching a cute Zoo Keeper dress this summer.’

Another range she introduced with Roz was the bespoke ZSL branded Marine line of tableware for children.

‘After all, we have an aquarium, so it makes sense to build on that,’ she says. ‘It’s also educational because it names all of the species on there. It’s more relevant to us than the Smurf and Gruffalo items we had before.’

Future plans include further er educational items, including ga top that looks like a tour t-shirt, shirt, but with names of endangered ered species on the back rather than bands. And next year it will be all about bugs! ‘They’re y’re everywhere around us, they’re y’re beautiful and we should look ok after them,’ says Tracie.

As well as developing their ir own lines, Tracie and her team are always on the lookk out for new products. They visit a lot of toy fairs and gift ft shows, looking for something ng new, perhaps an anatomical al element to a product that they haven’t had before.

‘I don’t believe a buyer should be sat behind their desk all day,’ says Tracie.

‘They should be in the field,, coming back with constant ideas and inspiration. Roz

and her team do a fantastic job.’

When I speak to Tracie, the Commercial Team is still celebrating their recent win at The Greats Gift Retail Awards 2017, scooping the Best Museum/Visitor Attraction Gift Shop Award. ‘It felt amazing for the team,’ says Tracie. ‘It was great to be recognised within the industry and for everyone to get a pat on the back.’

And next? ‘I want to carry on building. It does get trickier to build on success after such a phenomenal year.

It may be that Brexit acts in our favour, with more tourists and more Brits staying at home. It’s all about homing in on exactly what we’re trying to do, building a brand that’s recognisable.’

shop.zsl.org

gifts today 29

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

A place in the sun Prepare for some summertime buying at Harrogate Home & Gift. With over a thousand brands exhibiting this year, it’s the perfect opportunity to purchase from a range of trend-driven areas including gift, home fragrance, greetings & stationery and jewellery. It’s also the perfect opportunity to have some fun and get inspired.

‘Home & Gift is a fixture in our calendar every year as it’s where we launch our Autumn ranges’ Marcus Price, Co-Director, SeaGems, Cornwall

Cleere Scamell

A

s the finishing touches are being made for this summer’s Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate, it’s time to get ready for the chance to combine business with pleasure.

Time to prepare for some serious buying, some serious chat, some serious socialising. Show Director Cleere Scamell sums up the show experience when he says: ‘The thing I love most of all is about half an hour to an hour after the show opens when I’ll stand back and, for once in my life, listen! There’s that noise that people talking en masse make, I call it “the buzz.” It’s the event humming. You know conversations are happening and,

if conversations are happening, that means business is being done and that makes me really happy.’

Over the following pages we take a look at some of the key companies and products for you to check out when you’re looking to fill your shelves in the second half of the year and beyond. There promises to be so much to explore, so much to see – and, of course, there’s also beautiful Harrogate to enjoy. We’ll see you there!

homeandgift.co.uk

‘The new trend-driven areas that showcase new brands are my favourite parts of the show.’

Eleanor Gregory, Assistant Buyer, Home Accessories, Stationery & Christmas, Selfridges 30 gifts today

By Numbers 5

There are five edited sectors: gift, interiors, fashion & jewellery, greetings & stationery and new designers.

25 A quarter of exhibitors – 25% - are new this year.

4 The show runs for four days from 16 -19 July.

57 The show is now in its 57th year and has built up a strong reputation amongst retailers, designers and manufacturers.

1,000

Over a thousand brands will be exhibiting this year.

‘We always aim, or hope, to pick up a new line each year.’

Jill Nicholson, Chief Buyer, Gordale Garden Centre

ON TREND

The show’s Product Collections allow you to explore the industry trends, showcasing a range of interesting products from exhibitors. There are four key Product Collections at this year’s show.

1) Best of British

Warren Knight

Barney Edwards

TALKING HEADS The Great Northern Retail Forum featuring leading industry speakers, panels, advice and insights – will run over the three days of the show.

Highlights include:

• The beginner’s guide to building a social media strategy. Warren Knight, social media strategist and author shows you the ropes with his step-by-step process of establishing a digital presence in 2017.

• Online v bricks & mortar, Barney Edwards, Commercial Director of Prezzybox.com., shares his

Dan Bartram

Perseverance and dedication are key attributes that all of the brands in the Best of British Collection possess. They strive to keep their design and manufacturing processes as native as possible, both contributing towards the British economy and celebrating the country with their products. Exhibitors include Caroline Gardner Publishing Ltd, Gibsons Games and The Original Metal Sign Company.

2) Eco Collection tips for making your mark in an already crowded marketplace.

• The power of local and ‘Made In Britain.’ Dan Bartram from VMC Accessories and Rachael Rowe from Grace and Favour Home share their stories on how they’ve found business success on their own doorstep.

• Visually stunning product displays… made easy. Elena Fantuzzi, stylist and visual merchandiser, explains how to create the perfect setting for your merchandise.

• 10 ways to attract customers (and keep them).

Jenny Spivey, retail and small business consultant, suggests ways to reach a wider audience.

Reusing, recycling and reducing is at the forefront of our minds given the impact manufacturing products can have on the environment. The Eco Collection highlights exhibitors who are making their products in an environmentally-friendly way and allows you to make informed purchasing decisions. Exhibitors include Melt, Grace & Favour Home and John Hanly & Co Ltd.

3) Christmas Collection It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Home & Gift Festival 2017! The biggest gift-buying holiday is nearly upon us, so get into the spirit of the season and check out the Christmas Collection to make sure you have ordered your stock in time.

Exhibitors include D&J Glassware, Julie Dodsworth and Rachel Ellen Designs.

4) New Collection

Rachael Rowe

Elena Fantuzzi

Jenny Spivey

Who doesn’t love new products?! Look out for brands tagged with the New Collection logo to discover all of the latest products for the autumn/ winter season before anyone else. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge design, traditional gifts or homeware accessories, you’ll find all of the newest products at Home & Gift. Exhibitors include Aroma Home Limited, Besp-Oak and Aromatize. gifts today 31

Trade talk

Gifts Today loves to hear your views.

Leading figures in the gift industry talk trends, gifts and Harrogate.

LAUREN WOODSFORD ANGELA STEVENS Founder and Design Director, Dora Designs Ltd

Having exhibited for over ten years, we never tire of this show. It allows us to showcase our full range of products and launch our latest designs for the A/W season.

to remain popular; products with textures and vibrant colours are emerging.

What’s your focus this year?

How’s 2017 going?

We enjoy catching up with our existing customers, but equally we are hoping to attract new buyers. The new designs offer something new and exciting and ultimately fun for their A/W collections.

A positive start with our spring releases performing well.

Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

Describe your company in 3 words

Tips for new exhibitors?

Make your stand an enjoyable buying experience by having a friendly, approachable team with a well ordered display.

Quality, luxury, established.

Best thing about the gift industry?

Trends…?

It’s so nice to be able to design products that make people smile.

Grey tones and heritage palettes will continue

Trade Marketing and Online Manager, House of Marbles Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

It takes place at a great time when buyers are planning for the second half of the year. The show’s in a great location too, making it very social and a lot of fun!

What’s your focus this year?

We are launching some fantastic mid-year products at the show including some limited edition Christmas toys and games.

Describe your company in 3 words Traditional, quirky and fun!

Trends…?

if they contain gold cursive script so much the better. Unicorns, fairies and anything girly and mystical is another up-and-coming trend as well as floral designs, embroidery, tropical, particularly flamingos, pineapples and, for some reason, cacti galore!

Gift books are making a massive comeback and are now a very important part of our range.

There’s so much choice from activity and education to humorous adult books - they can really complement a gift shop’s core collection of toys and games. We are expecting our Christmas range to be really popular again during the second half of this year and are launching some new additions, including a festive selection of Jumping Jacks and a hilarious O-Deer party game.

How’s 2017 going?

How’s 2017 going?

STEVE DAVIES Joe Davies Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

Harrogate is one of the most important shows of the year for us and is certainly the most enjoyable. It’s the perfect venue for us to introduce our new A/W collection and enables our customers to get a head start on their buying for the upcoming season.

What’s your focus this year?

Our main focus is always is customer service and to give all visitors to our stand a fantastic buying experience. Visitors to our Harrogate stand can expect to see over 9,000 fresh, exciting gift, home décor, jewellery and fashion accessory items and well over 2,000 will be brand new for A/W.

Despite all the turmoil and upset all around us in 2017, trade has been remarkably resilient. Our products are up to date, good quality and above all affordable, so in tough times sales are not too much affected.

Trends…?

Message-related items continue to dominate and

32 gifts today

Tips for new exhibitors?

Display your products as clearly and attractively as possible, make your stand open and welcoming and be yourself.

Make your stand as attractive as possible and provide an excellent customer experience for buyers. We often have some show treats including cakes and chocolates, which are always very popular!

Best thing about the gift industry?

Best thing about the gift industry?

Tips for new exhibitors?

Describe your company in 3 words Innovative, efficient, customer-focused…and one more - friendly.

Retailers have been slightly more cautious with their buying after recent events – but we’ve had a really good 2017 so far.

The gift industry is a very civilised world to work in. Most companies and shops are still relatively small and owner or family-led, which means the industry is still refreshingly friendly and open.

The people – full of creativity, energy and in general a thoroughly lovely bunch!

HARROGATE HOME & GIFT Sunday 16th – Wednesday 19th July 2017 Hall Q Stand 23

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NEW Winter Collection available to order now

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DAVID GEE Owner, Music Gifts and Element Men’s Gifts

SARAH WATMORE Owner, Miss Milly Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

It’s where we launch our A/W collections as well as taking the last batch of orders for in-stock summer products. It’s our favourite show of the year.

What’s your focus this year?

Our focus is on the launch of the new ranges; getting customer feedback on them and taking forward orders, helping us to plan the restock of what we anticipate will be the bestsellers.

Describe your company in 3 words Dynamic, contemporary, colourful

Trends…?

Retailers are really focusing on their in-store displays and taking inspiration from suppliers’ stands at trade shows. Theming by colour is definitely something we are discussing more and more with our customers. As we move into summer, we are also seeing the sales of more delicate pendant necklaces increase.

We’re looking towards the brightest A/W season we’ve seen for a while and we’re expecting to see lots more bold, block colour and simple, fresh contemporary styling.

How’s 2017 going?

Miss Milly has just reached the end of its fifth year of trading and we’re still experiencing very strong growth. 2017 has been fantastic

for us so far and we’ve worked hard to ensure that the new collections are just as good, if not better, than the previous ones. Whilst we have had to increase prices on some lines, all suppliers are in the same boat, and retailers have thankfully taken it in their stride, appreciating it’s a national and unavoidable currency situation.

Tips for new exhibitors?

Engage with every potential customer that visits your stand as you never know where it might lead. With the old adage that on average it can take eight touch points from initial contact to first order, the sooner you start the process the better. We have customers who have shown interest in Miss Milly from our launch in 2012 and only just placed their first order this spring.

Best thing about the gift industry?

The people! Whether it’s customers or competitors they’re a friendly bunch, closely followed by working with products you can appreciate and love. Having marketed industrial glue and spark plugs in my previous career, designing jewellery and browsing other companies’ beautiful gifts makes it a very enjoyable industry to work in.

Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

It may be difficult to think about Christmas when it’s a scorching 30-odd degrees outside, but Home & Gift remains the ideal show to select products for the autumn and Christmas season. Even though Element was only launched two years ago (at Home & Gift), the range has already created a tremendous loyal following.

What’s your focus this year?

This year’s focus is on ‘wordy’ gifts, with the introduction of two great new ranges – ‘I should be …cycling, playing golf, playing rugby, in the pub’ available for mugs and coasters as well as socks; and for car lovers, more socks – ‘Mine’s the Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin.’

How would we describe our company in 3 words?

Unique, exciting, happy.

How’s 2017 going?

Being a relatively new brand, we are fortunate in that we seem to be bucking the trend by establishing many new outlets for our growing range of men’s gifts, which bodes very well for the second half of the year.

Tips for new exhibitors?

Take on board any advice given. Life is always a learning curve.

Best thing about the gift industry?

Its enduring appeal.

PAUL ROBERTS Commercial Director, Rachel Ellen Designs What’s your focus this year?

Along with a few exciting new card ranges, we will use the show to launch our new gift lines for the second half of the year.

Describe your company in 3 words

2017 has been really good so far. Some products have sold much quicker than anticipated which shows that there’s still a strong appetite for the right products.

We have been expecting more turbulent waters with Brexit and the election but as yet that hasn’t happened.

Fabulous, flittery, fantasticness.

Tips for new exhibitors?

Trends…?

There are obvious trends such as unicorns (we can’t supply enough unicorns!) but we don’t tend to look around too much. By the time you’ve seen something – it’s too late.

How’s 2017 going?

34 gifts today

Do everything you can to promote your brand, engage with buyers and don’t be afraid to ask if someone would like to write an order!

Best thing about the gift industry?

It has everything - design, product development, buying, managing stock and best of all, selling product that you’re passionate about.

e h t t n i pa d e r n w to

t 020 8288 9696 e luca@carolinegardner.com www.carolinegardner.com

Come and see our bold NEW AW17 range at Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1 - 113 Caroline Gardner.indd 1

21/06/2017 15:27

SIMON WILLIS Global Luxury Brands Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

Having been at Home & Gift every year for almost the past 30 years it has become something of a fixture but if it didn’t work we wouldn’t do it. The location and the timing work well for us and the buyers we want come to the show. Without a show at this time of the year our push for the second half would be much less focussed.

What’s your focus this year?

We are delighted to have Cmielow (Chimi-air Louf) joining the GLB family of hand-made giftware so that is obviously a focus for us. We have already had many accounts who used to stock the range contact us and we hope we can add to that number at the show. In addition, we have some great launches from De Rosa and Herend which we really want to let visitors see in the flesh - it is always better than even the greatest picture.

Describe your company in 3 words Quality, exclusivity, service.

Trends…?

We have seen a marked increase in interest in collectables again. We are not yet back in the heady days of ten years ago but quality and authenticity seem to be what both retailers and consumers are looking for. We have tried to respond to that by having three key brands which share those values and are all hand made by skilled artisans. The uncertain economic times we are in now make any predictions about the future slightly dangerous but

we hope that retailers are continuing to look for products that are not in mainstream retail with all the challenges that brings. A point of difference and suppliers that recognise the need for the business relationship to be a partnership, neither can survive without the other so flexibility and understanding is needed, on both sides.

How’s 2017 going?

With our business having two sides - retail and bespoke contract - we see marked differences in each sector. This year retail has held up really strongly, much more so than we expected after Brexit and then the start of a General Election. We have more new accounts and most of our existing accounts seem to be performing well. The bespoke business is also stronger than last year and I think the flexibility of our partners helps with this.

Tips for new exhibitors?

The key is to make things as easy as possible for yourself. All shows are hard work on both the set up and the open days so anything that makes the process easier is worth looking for. Planning is key.

Best thing about the gift industry?

Compared with the tableware sector where we also work, the gift industry is much faster moving and the new styles and designs coming in, and going out, much faster. I have always enjoyed both sectors but giftware is much more fun!

TOM SYKES Director, Xystos Why are you exhibiting at Home & Gift?

Home & Gift is a very successful show for Xystos. It is well attended and has the right buyers and a good feel – people are prepared to invest their time and aren’t in a rush. We benefit from this because we have such an extensive mix of fragrances that they need to be explored.

What’s your focus this year?

As always it is to sell as much candle and bath and body product as possible and give our introductions maximum exposure to new as well as established Xystos customers.

Describe your company in three words.

First for fragrance.

Trends…?

Consumers are seeking out subtle and discerning blended fragrances and more muted colours. They are looking for synergy – and a twist of something that gives a candle its USP. We have seen exponential growth in the burners’ category. Unlike candles, you don’t have to be in a room to monitor a wax melt.

How’s 2017 going?

In line with our expectations. Summer brings a dip in candle sales universally, but not in the purchase of ‘home fragrancing without a flame.’

Tips for new exhibitors?

Make sure that your stand is easy to navigate and give customers the time they deserve.

Best thing about the gift industry?

Although highly competitive, it is extremely friendly and caring.

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Each candle in the Traditions line features Village Candle’s dual-wick technology, for a cleaner, more efficient burn and greater fragrance release...

Whats not to love?

See the full range at...

Xystos 'MBNF 'SBHSBODF t #BUI #PEZ

The UK’s No.1 Home Fragrance Supplier to the Gift Industry Xystos.indd 1 GT July 2017.indd 1

Hall Q Stand13 For more info, contact our Customer Service Team Email: sales@xystos.co.uk or Tel: +44(0)191 499 1570 www.xystostrade.co.uk

05/06/2017 09:57 05/06/2017 09:11:38

Ashleigh & Burwood

5 things you need to know about Ashleigh & Burwood 2017 is set to be a landmark year for home fragrance experts Ashleigh & Burwood as they prepare to unveil the results of a sensational re-imagining of the brand in celebration of their upcoming 25th anniversary and 10 years since the launch of their heritage collection of Fragrance Lamps.

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he Ashleigh & Burwood team are extremely proud of the new designs they have been crafting behind the scenes, believing them to be some of the company’s most exciting and creative work. As they embark on their mission to shake things up in the world of Home Fragrance this season, we give you the lowdown on five things you need to know about Ashleigh & Burwood.

1.

TIME FOR A CHANGE

With a big birthday coming up next year, Ashleigh & Burwood have taken a careful eye to the look of the brand to make sure 25 years sees them still looking their best. ‘Fragrance ReImagined’ is how they

Meet the Team

Designer Philippa Steele tells us how the delicate artwork for Artistry was created.

Q: What’s your history with Ashleigh & Burwood?

A: I’ve been working at Ashleigh & Burwood since 2014, starting out as a Junior Designer, straight from university. My time at the company has allowed me to practise many aspects of design and I now work as a Designer within the New Product Development Team.

Q: What were the inspirations behind the artwork for the Artistry collection?

A: The inspiration behind each artwork is always the fragrance itself. The product development team brainstormed and we all came up with the original concept together. We wanted to keep some photographic element to the design, but combine it with a more personable and trend-led illustrative touch.

Q: What feel did you want to bring to the collection with the artwork?

A: We wanted to have a kind of playful colourfulness to make it eye-catching, but also give it a grown up, sophisticated and unique style. I think that the different layers and textures

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of the design appeal to the senses, evoking the sense of smell as much as a visual representation can.

Q: How did you create the artwork?

A: They were created using pencils and the computer. They’re hand-drawn outline sketches combined with photography and splashes of watercolour. It’s quite a unique combination.

Q: Had you any experience with this style of design beforehand?

A: I’ve always loved art and have been drawing and sketching my whole life. But combining the sketches with photography this way is something I have never done or really seen the process of it being done before, so it was a very interesting and fun challenge.

Q: Do you have a favourite and why?

A: That’s like making me choose a favourite child! I love them all equally!

express their new vision for the brand, beginning with a sleek redesign of their classic ranges.

This re-imagined vision was headed by Product Development Manager Anna Borrett who joined Ashleigh & Burwood two years ago. The team began by examining every aspect of their former branding to carefully review each element, before building them into the final refreshed and contemporary look.

Keeping true to the roots of the brand, they returned to their traditional black and gold colour scheme, now modernised with a glossy geometric pattern.

These motifs, incorporated into the designs of their Fragrance Lamps, Fragrance Oils and Incense, lends a fully cohesive look to their heritage collection.

For The Scented Home, their entry-point collection of Reed Diffusers, the re-imagining centred on transforming the rainbow colours of the range into on-trend softer tones to add a touch of elegance.

2.

IN WITH THE NEW

Two striking new collections, Wild Things and Artistry, join Ashleigh & Burwood for AW17 as the company reasserts their passion for creativity, innovation and high-quality, stylish, scented products.

The brand new Artistry collection is inspired by the creativity of fragrance design and the incredible art of perfumery. A selection of beautifully designed scents encapsulating modern tastes and trends are matched with hand-illustrated artwork by in-house designer Philippa Steele inspired by the fragrances.

Meanwhile, the vibrant and adventurous Wild Things conjures up destinations of country estates, mysterious islands, and tropical jungles with evocative high quality fragrances celebrating the collection’s colourful eccentricity. The collection traces a journey across the globe through highly-fragranced ‘scented souvenirs’ in richly-decorated ceramic vessels inspired by Chinese tea sets and designed in-house

by Sumitta Spencer-Townson.

3.

A PASSION FOR FRAGRANCE Despite the eye-catching imagery of their newest designs, Ashleigh & Burwood are keeping fragrance firmly at the heart of what they do.

Their passion for fragrance is the driving force behind Ashleigh & Burwood so, while their packaging designs were being given a fresh lick of paint, they were also paying keen attention to what’s inside the packaging. A full review of their fragrances was undertaken to phase out certain scents while keeping key scents covering every major fragrance family as well as popular trends and bestsellers like Moroccan Spice and Fresh Linen. New fragrances this season include the cosy, woody aroma of Winter Forest and celebratory Champagne Noël, scents that were specially picked by the team to expand the choice they offer to consumers.

4.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Offering their customers a diverse choice of home fragrance solutions has always been key for Ashleigh & Burwood, but with their latest launches they ensure that they provide something for everyone across all price-points and tastes.

From the outset of planning for this season, Ashleigh & Burwood have envisioned Fragrance ReImagined as not only introducing exciting, innovative new products, but collectively forming a comprehensive,

diverse buying portfolio full of unique and varied collections. They now provide a complete and robust product portfolio, which offers a variety of high quality home fragrance products at every price point, from the accessibly-priced Earth Secrets to the luxury Wild Things collection, and for every home, from the clean and minimalist Artistry designs to their brilliant mosaic Fragrance Lamps.

5.

BURNING THE CANDLE AT BOTH ENDS Moving to a bigger home last year has finally given Ashleigh & Burwood the opportunity to begin work on a very special project – the development of their own candle production facility here in the UK. ‘We have invested in some excellent equipment that

enables us to pour candles very quickly and efficiently with fragrance changes being done in a matter of minutes,’ says Special Projects Manager Tony PalmerJohnson, who is responsible for developing the new production facility. ‘This is exciting for us as it gives us the flexibility to pour both large orders of a single fragrance and lots of smaller orders using multiple fragrances.’

While production gets up and running, Ashleigh & Burwood’s Product Development Team are hard at work in the facility’s new lab in search of the perfect candle formula. As Technical Development Manager Alison Clayson explains: ‘There are so many different types of fragrances, waxes and wicks; my job is to find the right combination of the three so that we can produce candles of the highest quality that will release the most beautiful scents.’

Meet the Team

Sumitta Spencer-Townson, the designer behind Wild Things’ bright, bold artwork, tells us her inspirations.

Q: What’s your history with Ashleigh & Burwood?

A: I joined Ashleigh & Burwood 10 years ago as a maternity cover right after graduating. Over the years I’ve progressed from Junior to Senior designer.

Q: What were the inspirations behind the images you created for Wild Things?

A: I started seeing trends appearing everywhere playing with the idea of bringing the outdoors into the home and wild, tropical prints popping up in home décor. I wanted to bring the same concept to Wild Things by creating playful nature-inspired images with vibrant colours.

Q: What feel did you want to bring to the collection with the artwork?

A: I wanted the images have an element of boldness, both in the vibrancy of the colours and the designs themselves, that really makes them a statement piece for the home. The tiger staring

out from between the leaves on Crouching Tiger for instance has a very striking visual impact. I also wanted there to be a feeling of fun to the collection with totally random designs like the gentleman bunny for Sir Hoppingsworth.

Q: How did you create the images for the packaging?

A: I took specific elements that I wanted to use from lots of different stock images and illustrations, I then worked in Photoshop to adjust the colours and add in other effects. Finally, I layered all the elements and played around with the composition until I was happy with the final look.

Q: Do you have a favourite and why?

A: Pinemingos - who doesn’t love flamingos at the moment, they’re everywhere!

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

JOE DAVIES Hall Q: Stand Q50 Introducing the new Equilibrium Kiss Collection. The exquisite detail and stunning designs in this elegant collection from Joe Davies are a real show stopper for any jewellery display. Stunning crystals beautifully set into elegant silver and rose gold plated necklaces, bracelets and ear-rings give this range a modern contemporary twist. This collection really does have something for everyone... quality without compromise, beautiful designs and that added “sparkle”. Don’t miss out, visit the Joe Davies stand and see this fabulous new collection and many more exciting new gifts all available to buy in small quantities for easy and affordable ordering, minimum orders of just £100 and free delivery nationwide.

Gold cursive script is all the rage in giftware at the moment and these lovely Heart Sentiment box plaques from Joe Davies capture the trend perfectly. The bright, foiled gold messages are used on plaques, photo frames and money boxes and are just part of an extensive, exclusive range that will be displayed for the first time.

Joe Davies always have the busiest stand at the show and with the introduction of 2,000 brand new gifts for autumn and winter, the company’s award winning staff are looking forward to an exciting time at everyone’s favourite show.

Unicorns, fairies, mermaids and all things pretty and mystical will also feature heavily on Joe Davies’ spacious stand. These charming Unicorn Money Boxes are just one of many appealing ranges which will debut at the show along with 8,000 exciting commercial gifts, home décor, jewellery and fashion accessory items.

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

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Heaven Scent doing things naturally

Harrogate Home & Gift Stand Q88

01225 868788 contact@heavenscent.co.uk www.heavenscent.co.uk Heaven Scent.indd 1

28/06/2017 16:44

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

AROMATIZE Hall A: Stand A19 Aromatize is a leading supplier of fragranced products and candle accessories. Their brands include Goose Creek, Woodbridge, Beluma and Aroma Accessories. They offer high quality items at very competitive prices. Please visit their stand at Harrogate to view all their latest designs, new fragrances and comprehensive collections.

Alternatively contact their sales office to request a copy of the latest sales brochure.

Call: 01254 300260 Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk Visit: aromatize.co.uk

CREATIVE TOPS Hall M: Stand M27 Home & Gift will see an exciting launch from Creative Tops of four new gifting collections specialising in on-trend gifts for women, men, pets and gardeners. Pretty and motivational, Ava & I is about achieving goals, embracing wellness and taking time out to play. Best friends, sisters and daughters will fall in love with the flawless Millennial pink, precious gold detail, marble effects and beautiful iridescence of this giftable brand.

Earlstree & Co excels in men’s gifting, offering refined brass-finish and faux leather products for the modern gentleman who demands classic quality with a dash of bold charisma. The Tails & Treats collection is ideal for owners who prefer a more premium choice for their pets, styling beautiful products with clean designs, muted colours and sweet slogans.

Finally, be welcomed to your own little plot with Bulb & Bloom, a fresh new collection designed especially for gardeners to create peaceful moments in their outdoor hideaways. Trend analysis has always been integral to Creative Tops’ designs, and now the company ventures into stylish contemporary gifting that combines a number of on-trend features that will hit all the right notes with consumers.

Call: 01536207710 Email: sales@creative-tops.com Visit: creative-tops.com

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08/06/2017 10:19

Xystos

New collection from Xystos aims to ‘bring out your inner artisan’ WoodWick and Village Candle are bang on-trend as Cello melts the hearts of buyers.

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uyers who are fans of the candle with the crackling wick will have plenty to look forward to at Home & Gift where Xystos will unveil new WoodWick ranges and line extensions on its mammoth stand.

The brand has burnt its way into the psyche of UK retailers who will be keen to place orders for the candles that give them repeat orders.

There is expected to be great interest in the new Artisan Collection and a contemporary and decorative range of HearthWick vessels, as well as colourful designs in the ever-popular Art Deco-style which incorporate metal. Look out too for reed diffusers and new jar candles.

Artisan is developed with a unique blend of herbs, dashed with deep woody fragrances and citrus undertones.

This tasteful palette of vibrant painted textures is designed to ‘bring out your inner artisan’. It comprises a medium hourglass, HearthWick ellipse vessel, tin, mini wax melt and four-ounce reed diffuser. All are available in eight fragrances: Black Amber & Citrus, Ebony Woods, English Lavender, Honey Tabac, Red Currant & Cedar, Lime Bergamot, Sea Salt Magnolia and Vanilla Sol. RRPs are from £2.29 to £29.99.

There are four additions to the best-selling HearthWick Trilogy range – the new fragrance Calming Retreat, as well as Café Sweets, Warm Woods and Fresh Baked, each with an RRP of £29.99. These scents will also be available in medium and large hourglasses with RRPs of £19.99 and £25.99 respectively. Says Xystos director Tom 44 gifts today

Sykes: ‘HearthWick continues to be our most popular shaped vessel, with sales growing at the same level as last year. It never fails to give us sell-through.’

The Inspirational range gets a new look with candles in different containers – the medium hourglass (£19.99 RRP) and HeathWick ellipse (£29.99 RRP).

Fragrances are Family, Friends, Happy Birthday, Love, Sister and Home The success of the Cello melt burner range heralds the introduction of six further designs and major development within the Porcelain Collection, which has ‘placed very well’.

Summer brings a dip in candle sales universally, but not in the purchase of ‘home fragrancing without a flame’. Tom explains: ‘Unlike candles, you don’t have to be in a room to monitor a wax melt. We have seen exponential growth in the burners’ category.’

Shoppers now have the opportunity to create their own personal blend of fragrances when melted in a burner. The Basic Collection from Xystos comprises 36 sumptuous scents – fruity, fresh or sweet – while the Extended Collection also has three dozen fragrances.

Buyers can order ScentChips in one-fragrance bags – weighing either 1,360 grams and containing approximately 226 pieces, or 500 grams with around 84 pieces. A choice of box is offered – small, holding eight pieces and with an RRP of £4.25; medium, 13 pieces, £6.49; large, 26 pieces, £12.99, extra-large, 38 pieces, £16.99.

The company’s 2016 partnership with America’s Village Candle is flourishing, as repeat sales testify.

‘It’s a brand we are looking to continue to invest in – which is what you will see in Harrogate in terms of the space this extensive range will occupy. We are delighted to have it in our portfolio.’

As far as trends are concerned, Tom believes that consumers will be seeking out subtle and discerning blended fragrances and more muted colours, including plenty of green! ‘People are looking for synergy – and a twist of something that gives a candle its USP.’ This is reflected in the new Village Candle limited

editions. Urban Nights has scents of fresh sage, patchouli and a touch of vanilla, while Forest Hike comprises rainforest moss, juniper and dark timer.

The trio is completed by Acai Berry Tobac, featuring light tobacco, sweet berry and soft musk. They are available in three core vessels, 11oz, 16oz and 26oz, with RRPs of £12.49, £16.99 and £19.99 respectively.

Bath and body will continue to feature strongly in the offer from the home of flame and fragrance. At the time of writing, Xystos is hoping to sign an agreement with another company which will strengthen its presence in this category and give a further distribution boost and additional focus to its Woods of Windsor and Naked Bee personal care products.

Says Tom: ‘We will have a huge bath and body stand at Home & Gift running alongside our candle ranges.’

Here, retailers will see the new Gardener’s Range from Woods of Windsor. The unisex line comprises a hand wash, hand scrub, hand cream and hand balm/ butter, with RRPs from £4.99 to £7.99. It includes the fresh floral accord of Blackberry & Thyme, which opens with refreshing notes of green tea and ripe blackberry followed by a heart of rosemary, thyme, mimosa and white jasmine, resting on a background of musk and amber.

A counter display holds four hand washes, five hand scrubs, five hand creams and six hand butters, and has a combined retail value of £130.80.

Xystos has never been happy to rest on its laurels and is always keen to explore the possibility of entering into new partnerships to maintain and grow its position in the flame and fragrance market.

‘We are always looking for synergies, so products need to have a reason to exist in our portfolio.’

It is also determined to enhance its service to retailers, evidenced by a new, soon to be unveiled business-to-

business website and upgraded back office and warehouse system.

As far as Home & Gift is concerned, Tom comments: ‘I continue to be surprised at how successful it is for us. The show is well attended and has the right buyers and a good feel – people are prepared to invest their time and aren’t in a rush. Xystos benefits from this because we have such an extensive mix of fragrances that they need to be explored. And with continued investment and support from Clarion Events I am confident that we can look forward to another successful show.’

Xystos stand number Q13 & Q13A&B/Q25B Call: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk Visit: xystostrade.co.uk

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

DUNOON Hall B: Stand B27 Fine bone china, made in England. On Dunoon’s very popular large size ‘Glencoe’ mug there is a new colourful informative design on the subject of ‘Ballroom Dancing.’ This features a brief history and interesting facts about popular ballroom dances such as The Waltz, The Foxtrot, Salsa and many others. Designed by Caroline Dadd, made in fine bone china and in the heart of Staffordshire, England.

Call: 01785 817414 Email: sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk Visit: dunoonmugs.co.uk

DORA DESIGNS DP2-18 The company welcomes a variety of new additions to their current collections for autumn/winter 2017.

Their Posh Collection welcomes Blue the Weimaraner Dog Doorstop finished in the luxurious grey brocade fabric.

The elegant Hartwell the Deer Doorstop finished in a beige brocade fabric joins the Traditional range for autumn.

To add a splash of colour they’ve introduced Hamish the Golden Eagle Doorstop to the award winning Country Folk Collection and to the Patchwork Collection a pink Patchwork Pig Doorstop; both designs are full of character!

Not to forget our canine and feline friends. Dora Designs introduces Boris the Bloodhound and Teddy the Yorkshire Terrier Doorstops to the Canine Collection, both finished in a gorgeous boucle fabric. Also in the boucle there is Felix Cat Junior, the Paperweight.

The Pedigree and County range are a definite must for your 2017 collection. Introducing Solo the Alsatian and Chico the Chihuahua Doorstops which are finished in beige herringbone fabrics. Inspired by existing doorstop designs three new Draught Excluders join this collection, Thurston Senior, Jackson Senior and Egbert Senior.

Call: 01780 430188 Visit: doradesigns.co.uk

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22/06/2017 09:55

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

GIBSONS DP1 – 20A Gibsons are excited to return to the Home & Gift Show this year with plenty of exciting new products to show. As well as 17 new puzzles in an array of piece counts, they will also be showcasing two new additions to the Iconic Brands Collection, the successful gift range that includes branded jigsaw puzzles in larger-than-life packaging. Joining the collection is quirky 250pc Twister jigsaw and a 500pc Krispy Kreme puzzle.

The Wall’s Ice Cream Twister puzzle is a temptingly tasty, double-sided jigsaw puzzle. The 250 pieces are presented in an iconic Twister-shaped tin that is bound to bring back memories of summer holidays spent enjoying your favourite twisted ice lolly.

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

GLOBAL LUXURY BRANDS Hall B: 13A Cmielow joins De Rosa and Herend at Home & Gift 2017.

Global Luxury Brands are delighted that they are now distributing world renowned Polish porcelain house Cmielow (Chimi-air-louf). As with their other brands De Rosa and Herend this range is hand-made and handpainted in the original country of its birth. The range of subjects covers not only animals but human figurines, all executed in the sleek and minimal style that has made Cmielow appreciated for over 200 years.

There will be new introductions from De Rosa and Herend including an addition to the bestselling Striped Cat family. The De Rosa team is well known worldwide for their range of superb hand-carved and hand-painted ceramic animals, but now their talented designers have turned their hand to this wonderful collection of limited edition vases. Each vase is cast in a fine ceramic body before being hand carved, fired and hand hand painted before being fired again. The process of hand carving a ceramic body is a skill that De Rosa’s artisans have developed over many years and the detail on these pieces has to be seen to be fully appreciated.

Call: 01538 807780 Email: enquiries@globalluxurybrands.co.uk Visit: globalluxurybrands.co.uk 48 gifts today

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16/06/2017 14:18

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

CAROLINE GARDNER DP1: 113 This will be the company’s 15th year exhibiting at the Harrogate Home & Gift show, and they’re looking forward to getting together with their agents and customers.

Perfect Prints The company will be launching their A/W17 range. The three prints on display are: • Wanderlust: This fashion-forward range encompasses the successful rose gold metallic from the previous season n with flirty florals and a pretty yet neutral style. To cater for that life fe on the go, they’ve designed even more travel accessories, including cluding the ultimate holiday planner, drawstring bags, marble pocket mirror and glasses case.

• Good As Gold: Reflecting attention to detail and a hand finished feel, this collection mimics their core card ranges. Inspired by the ‘Hey You’ cards, they have paired the core hearts print with gold metallic foils, solid charcoals and soft creams with inspirational motifs.

• Paint The Town Red: This is the latest bold range of accessories and stationery for the girl about town who loves colour and print.

The inspiration comes from the successful card range ‘Jumble’ which features all over floral prints in clashing bold colours. Key products include the Jumble print Canvas Clutch, the Essential Case and the little jotter.

Handbag & Accessory range With three commercial prints to choose from along with a selection of bold solid colour handbags there is something to suit all! The essential ial shapes include clutches, totes and cross bodies all with leather detailing.

…and now for the cards!

Caroline Gardner are launching a whopping 74 cards for A/W17 with six brand new ranges. They think these two will be especially popular:

• Palm Springs This range draws inspiration from LA & Palm Springs; with a soft pastel colour palette of blues and pinks and some bold typography.

They have added a new extra chunky glitter finish in pink, red and gold, alongside classic gold foil with a few additions of blue and pink foil too.

• Pom The trend this season is definitely Honeycomb paper decorations.

Bright pink flamingos, blinging diamond engagement rings and cherry adorned cupcakes are just some of the vibrant designs that pop in this range. Each card has a Honeycomb Pom-Pom integrated into the design, which the buyer folds over and sticks to the card, once taken from its envelope.

Other ranges they are launching are a range of keepsake cards, text cards, Polaroid-style cards and lastly ‘Lunette’ - a new modern range with a cut-out section on the front of the card to reveal a message on the inside. So much to explore!

Christmas Christmas 2017 has had a fabulous update where all products have been designed to sit in a theme. There are three festive themes this year - Nordic Snow, Traditional and Enchanted Christmas. The themes are there to help pick beautiful products that sit together perfectly. Also new this year are the advent cards, a lovely festive card to send where the receiver can count down to Christmas in style!

Visit: carolinegardner.com

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Mad Beauty.indd 1

28/06/2017 16:47

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

HOUSE OF MARBLES DP1 - 39 Following the huge demand for their mid-year range last year, House of Marbles are delighted to offer an even better collection this year - with masses of new toys and games for customers to choose from.

Much of the range has been inspired by classic toys and games throughout the ages, so retailers can expect a high quality selection of well-loved products including a nostalgic Snakes and Ladders game. All come in gorgeous vintagestyle packaging designed by the team.

One new addition to the range and looking to be a huge success is their Little Red Riding Hood Shadow Puppets Kit. Presented in a beautifully illustrated gift box, children will absolutely love making their own shadow puppet show with the puppets and re-chargeable torch included. This is certainly the best gift set money can buy.

If that wasn’t enough to tempt you, there are lots of entertaining additions to their exclusive Christmas range too. Retailers can pick from a festive selection of traditional Jumping Jacks and the hilarious O-Deer game - where players try to catch hoops with their inflatable antlers!

The great gift margins make this a must have collection in the run up to Christmas. There’s only limited stock though and last year the collection sold out fast.

Call: 01626 835358 Visit: houseofmarbles.com/tradeuk

MISS MILLY DP3 - 8 With its striking colour choices and combinations in bold yet wearable designs, the Floria Collection from Miss Milly continues to grow its fan base within gift shops, garden centres, fashion boutiques and visitor attractions. Designed mainly in resin and enamel, the range is based on a strong selection of beautiful necklaces with a variety of coordinating bracelets, earrings and rings. The range is developed further each launch with new colourways for the most popular lines and always introduces a great selection of brand new designs in that season’s colours.

All Miss Milly products are designed with an ethos of eye-catching, contemporary design and high quality at a reasonable price with the Floria Collection as the flagship range.

For the coming autumn/winter season, look out for vibrant combinations as we head into the most colourful winter in fashion for some time. Brilliant Blue, Pompeian Red and Magenta Haze sit alongside the more traditional greys, blacks and jewel tones of amethyst and teal.

Miss Milly offers a range of three types of packaging and branded display stands. There is a low £50 minimum order online and no minimum order quantities. Register online for trade pricing access and to order or give the friendly team a call.

Call: 01905 622509 Visit: missmilly.co.uk 52 gifts today

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08/06/2017 10:52

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

MELT DP1 - 40 It’s all about fragrance at melt. With a passion for hot wax and fine fragrance, melt have been creating candles of exceptional quality since 1999. Fragrance is known for turning your mood and creating the right ambience in your surroundings – and melt’s preferred choice is always elegant, sophisticated, and a tad refined, confident and slightly sexy – or as some splendid newspaper of note said ‘Recherché’.

Melt’s range has now grown to include 33 unique Fine Fragrance scents with six candles sizes in each one and with burn times ranging from 22 hours up to 160 hours. Every single candle is hand poured – and working with molten waxes ensures they are fragranced throughout.

Scents for All: • Shine – Beautifully fresh, clean with a zingy grapefruit top note.

• Verbena & Clary Sage - Smells like the most gorgeous chap (or at least one who wears the most exquisite fragrances) - loved by both men and women.

• Neroli & Rose Geranium – Ultra feminine and lady like, this fragrance would be found on any dressing table.

Call: 01200 443377 Visit: themeltco.com

PoM DP1 -103 Autumn always feels like a good time to relax and reboot. The hectic summer is nearly over and the Christmas rush is looming - it’s a great time for a style overhaul. A change of season almost always means a change of wardrobe, with women looking for a quick and inexpensive way of updating their looks. Jewellery, scarves and accessories make the perfect solution.

Late summer and early autumn are all about mellow colour, texture, layering and keeping chills at bay while remaining stylish.

Peace of Mind’s autumn silver and silverplated jewellery collection is the perfect blend of fresh clean and well-polished style with an underlying bohemian vibe. Easy to wear, ageless and timeless it has, as always, PoM’s signature laid back elegance at its core.

Mixed metals have huge appeal with the rose gold, gold and silver combination being one of their big hitters. Crystals, pearls and charms all add to its playfulness. This is spirited jewellery for spirited women. The summer trend for metallics follows through to autumn, not just with jewellery but also with scarves, bags and accessories. A new batch of grown up metallic foil print scarves, clutch bags in super soft leathers and suedes shimmer with sparkle, tote bags glistening with gold will make summer feel that little bit longer. And if bling isn’t your thing, then there is still plenty to keep you and your customers happy. Ultra-feminine, hand-printed slim silk scarves and soft cotton ponchos are great transitional pieces, perfect for an Indian summer.

With new branded packaging, great point of sale and such a comprehensive collection to choose from, PoM offers you an autumn that’s all wrapped up.

Call: 01225 777749 Email: sales@pom925.com Visit: pom925.com 54 gifts today

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

YANKEE Hall Q: Stand Q23 Yankee will be exhibiting its Autumn Fall In Love and Perfect Christmas collections. The products in the range for Fall In Love are Vibrant Saffron, Mulberry & Fig Delight, Warm Cashmere and Autumn Glow. They’re available from August 2017.

The products in the Christmas range are Perfect Tree, White Spiced Cocoa Spiced White Cocoa, Crackling Wood Fire and Christmas Magic, available from October 2017

Visit: yankeecandle.co.uk

INTELEX Hall B: Stand B9 Intelex Group are excited to showcase their new Warmies heatable soft toys and other innovative products at the Harrogate Home & Gift show. Visitors will have the chance to discover the latest additions to the Warmies Cozy Plush family which include a charming blue dragon, an adorable baby penguin, a cute boxer and a lovable husky, to name just a few.

This is also an opportunity for Intelex Group to introduce their brand new Warmies Minis’ counter units which feature miniature versions of some of the most popular Warmies characters, including Bagpuss. Retailers will be able to take advantage of the growing popularity of small plushies by choosing from four standard counter units, each at £7.95 RRP. The Bagpuss counter unit will retail for £9.95. Gift shop owners and other retailers will be able to add these charming counter units to their stock and place them strategically near the tills, to attract the attention of their customers, from young children to adults, and thus encourage more impulse purchases.

The Home Therapy range now includes Long Hot Water Bottles that offer a safer alternative to traditional hot water bottles and better warmth distribution due to their elongated design.

Shortly after the release of Despicable Me 3, Intelex Group are also launching new additions to the Warmies Minions range which has seen great success so far.

Call: 01933679777 Email: sales@intelex.co.uk Visit: intelex.co.uk 56 gifts today

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

MAD BEAUTY DP1-109 Following on from the highly successful launch in 2016 of Never Too Old For Disney, Mad Beauty are debuting another two iconic Disney classics Bambi and Beauty & The Beast.

These products are specifically designed to tap in to the Millennials and older target market.

Everyone grew up with Disney and it is that emotional link that they are seeking to develop with these beautiful collections. The company is also showcasing new and exciting new collections.

Mad beauty Limited is a UK design-led, award-winning leading manufacturer of beauty products.

Serious About Making Cosmetics Fun. Designed in the UK by Mad People.

Call: 020 8958 0555 Email: sales@madbeauty.com Visit: madbeauty.com

RACHEL ELLEN DP1 – 31 Rachel Ellen Designs has chosen Harrogate Home & Gift to launch an expansive new range of stationery and co-ordinated products that includes two new styles of pen. The stationery line-up ranges from large A4 hard backed notebooks supplied with foiled stickers for personalisation to fabulous little A7 mini notepads.

In addition, there are beautiful A5 perfect bound notebooks in striking designs with a foiled spine and elastic closer and six new A6 size featuring various beautiful finishes, these can now be supplied in a handy countertop CDU. To complete the range are some gorgeous soft cover wiro-bound notebooks and a fabulous new tabbed organiser. Other products being launched at the show include foiled gift bags, pencil cases and new designs of drinking bottles, mini tote bags and proven best sellers such as writing sets.

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

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival al

JULIE DODSWORTH DPD – 23 Julie’s story is very proudly from British folk art. She paints and creates all the original designs from her narrowboat ‘Calamity Jane,’ e,’ inspired by her artisan living with flora and the heritage of the waterways. She paints using 18th century simple methods of one paintbrush mixing with just three colours.

This simplicity is the cornerstone of all she creates.

Call: 07977 137126 Visit: juliedodsworth.com

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES DP1 - 32 The last couple of years have seen Museums & Galleries develop their ranges of journals considerably – there are now well over 100 different designs to choose from, in a variety of different sizes and formats. The company has an increasing number of address and birthday books, guest books, and diaries as well. To help make sense of this wealth of product, and to market the products efficiently in store, M&G have developed a bespoke spinner for their stationery products, which is being previewed exclusively on their stand at Harrogate.

The fair is a great opportunity to stock up on Christmas gift ideas and the M&G journals with their beautiful cover designs make wonderful and on-trend gifts for all those eager to reconnect with pen and paper.

This year M&G launched gift ballpoint pens to match and co-ordinate with their V&A journals, and also brought out journals in a new luxurious ‘Grande’ size. These feature best-selling Matthew Williamson patterns as well as classic V&A archive designs reinterpreted for today.

M&G will have their full everyday card ranges and Christmas ranges on show as well.

Visit: museumsgalleries.co.uk

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GIFTS

LIMITED EDITIONS

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

creative solutions for tabletop, giftware and interior decor.

We are delighted that Cmielow, [Chimi-air-louf ] the famous Polish porcelain house has joined our other exclusive giftware ranges De Rosa and Herend. All our premium brands are hand made and hand painted by skilled artisans.

At GLB we are passionate about finding high quality hand made ranges that can offer something different for discerning retailers who want something that will never be everywhere.

Please contact us for more details or come and see us at Home & Gift 2017, Hall B, Stand 13a.

Email: enquiries@globalluxurybrands.co.uk Telephone: 01538 807 780 www.globalluxurybrands.co.uk

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

SEA GEMS Hall C: Stand C15 Sea Gems, Cornwall, is launching hundreds of new, exciting additions to its popular jewellery and gift ranges for summer 2017.

Original British designed Silver jewellery brand ‘Pure Origins’ is truly inspirational with story collections of handcrafted, wearable designs that are fun and personal. Whimsical and romantic themes, the natural world, and beloved woodland animals.

Exquisitely detailed boutique style Silver that expresses individuality, with a story unfolding with each design. From their ‘Beachcomber’ collection of shells, oceanic creatures and organic forms to the botanical collection of flora from around the world, attention to detail, design and quality remain at the heart of every piece.

Distinctively different textures add depth and enhance the natural feel of each piece.

Their well known ‘Celtic Lands’ collection of Silver jewellery goes from strength to strength, celebrating their heritage and the intricate knot work of the Celts. To complete their diverse jewellery ranges is the ‘Fine Enamel’ collection featuring Mackintosh, Celtic and the new ‘Nature series’ of floral and wildlife designs. The

beautifully vibrant and translucent colour of enamelling is a true art form.

Inspired gift ranges include contemporary rose gold pens, crystal pens, touch stylus, compact mirrors, pillboxes, bookmarks and scarf rings.

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

STONEGLOW Hall A: Stand A32 For 2017 think hygge, that stay at home feeling all wrapped up, cosy and comfortable. Stoneglow are offering a new natural wax range Geometric, sculptured matt coloured glasses and material, all set beautifully with fragrances such as soft Freesia & Cedar for comfort, Rose & Oud with velvety rose petals for a fragrance hug. Geometric consists of 4 wonderful fragrances in candles, diffusers and refills.

Stoneglow have teamed up with renowned Letter Artist Carol Kemp and have launched a stunning Occasions collection of fragrance candles and diffusers to let that someone know you are thinking of them.

They are introducing a stunning new range called Luna. A premium range of luminous candles and revitalised diffusers with opulent textures, luxury materials, combined with sumptuous perfumes for a decadent experience.

They have updated their Seasonal Collection with fun Christmas crackers, cute tins, advent candles and a collection of inclusion candles and scented diffusers and candles. This range is full of festive cheer for the traditional to the

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contemporary. You will also find new additions to Nature’s Gift, White Orchid and Modern Classics. The company is proud to claim this is their best and most diverse collection to date.

Call: 020 8595 8878 Visit: stoneglowcandles.co.uk

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If you’re looking to add a little sparkle to your offering, the jewellery sector is well worth exploring for ideas and inspiration.

Jewellery @ Home & Gift W

hether you’re stocking one shelf or an entire department, you’ll find plenty of jewellery in the show’s Jewellery & Fashion halls.

They will be overrun with silver, stones and sparkles, alongside leather, silk and more, creating a jewellery and fashion buyer’s paradise in the middle of the show. Look out for the latest ranges from returning favourites and discover unique pieces from brandnew designers. Key trends to look out for include:

1. An Explosion of Colour ‘Our palette includes Brilliant Blue, Pompeian Red and Magenta Haze, much brighter tones that we’d normally work with for autumn and winter,’ says Sarah Watmore from Miss Milly. ‘Sitting alongside the more usual grey, navy, teal and amethyst, it has created a very vibrant collection that will hopefully help the summer vibe last well into the dreary days. We’re also seeing colour

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blocking and strong, simple designs really kicking the vintage look into touch.’

2. Semi-Precious Stones There’s been an increasing use of beautiful semi-precious materials that looks set to continue into the second half of this year and beyond. And it’s not just the likes of turquoise and moonstone making an appearance – more unusual finds look set to be popular. ‘Druzy and natural agate feature prominently for the second half of the year,’ says Mary Richards, Jewellery & accessory buyer for Joe Davies. ‘Equilibrium will have a stunning collection of these semiprecious crystals which will adorn any jewellery display.’

3. Stunning Silver While rose gold is still very much in evidence – albeit appearing in darker variations this season – silver looks set for a comeback. Perfect timing for award-winning designer lifestyle and jewellery brand Nambé, who are launching in the UK and Irish markets. The company offers a sterling silver jewellery collection, which draws inspiration from the aesthetic of its successful home and gift ranges. The collection includes bracelets, earrings, pendants and rings, all with a recognizable fluidity and bold shapes.

THINKING OF STOCKING JEWELLERY? ‘Space is limited for many stores and this is where jewellery comes into its own as a high turnover can be achieved from a very limited amount of space,’ says Mary Richards from Joe Davies. ‘Jewellery n indulgent appeals both as a gift and an self-purchase, so there is a double chance of that all-important sale.’

Sarah Watmore from Miss Milly believe that stocking jewellery can have several advantages. ‘Firstly, you can achieve a decent mark-up of x3 for the right products. And with such a variety of brands available, you should be able to stock something different to your closest competitors. If you’re already selling fashion, then adding jewellery makes sense as it offers customers the convenience of a complete outfit and you achieve a higher transaction value for not much more effort,’ she says.

‘For gift shops, jewellery works well with cards if it can be easily posted and the right pieces can add colour and depth to a display.’

If you’re considering buying into jewellery, then take the time to have a wander around the Halls to see what’s out there and get some display ideas.

It’s worth chatting to the exhibitors about first orders and bestsellers – many will put together a ‘starter package’ for you. Happy shopping!

You can find jewellery here: • Hall C and the Queen’s Suite (Level One) within the Harrogate Convention Centre.

• In the Design-led Gift marquees.

Bleed 3mm on all 4 edges

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

CARRIE ELSPETH DP1 - 36 Autumn sees Carrie Elspeth add more beautiful designs to her stunning best-selling jewellery collections. With gorgeous branded packaging and new point of sale, this latest collection is keeping pace with the hot trends for the season and will undoubtedly put a smile on your customers’ faces!

There are additions to all her brands as well as a new concept - which she is keeping under wraps until Home & Gift Harrogate! Still proudly made in Wales, Carrie prides herself on quality, super-fast delivery and supporting local! Call the studio for the latest full-colour autumn brochure.

Call: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com Visit: carrieelspeth.com

MARBEL DP1 - 37

ELEMENT DPD-1 It’s never been easier to find men’s gifts. If you struggle to find men’s gifts, then at Home & Gift it may be worth taking a look at Element in Design Point Debut.

It’s a unique collection solely offering men’s gifts. Socks are the biggest selling gifts for men and therefore feature strongly within the range with 12 designs for both sports and car lovers. There’s even a rotating display stand which comes complete with 36 pairs made from finest 95% cotton.

Other highlights include mugs and matching coasters, cufflinks, English-made washbags with pewter zip-pulls, pens, bottle openers, keyrings and much more.

The products are designed by the in-house team as well as a range by awardwinning illustrator Vikki Gibson. What sets Element gifts apart is their attention to detail and how they strive to offer the finest quality products, beautifully packaged. Latest new gifts include ‘I should be…cycling, playing golf, playing rugby, in the pub’ available for mugs and coasters as well as socks, and ‘Mine’s the Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin’ socks for any aspiring supercar dreamer.

Call: 01202 57 00 57 Email: info@elementgifts.com Visit: elementgifts.com 66 gifts today

Get a first look at what exciting new products one of the biggest children’s distributors Marbel will be showcasing as they exhibit at The Harrogate Home & Gift Show this July. You will find collections from much loved brand including: Hape, Nanoblock, Bullyland, Comansi, Carioca, Relevant Play, Kids Preferred and Pink Poppy.

Firstly, why not check out the all new and exciting ranges from Hape. Including Early Melodies, encouraging children to create their own music and Happy Puzzle, offering puzzles of all shapes and sizes. Showcasing all things micro sized Nanoblock reveal their new array of amazingly detailed and realistic recreations including sets like: The New York Scene, Blue Whale Skeleton, The White House and mini animals like the Gorilla, Swan and Meerkat. The extensive range at Nanoblock is sure to keep on growing.

Call: 020 7060 4582 Email: sales@marbel.co.uk Visit: marbel.co.uk

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

TERRAMUNDI DP1 - 35 Terramundi are innovating with colour and finish this season. Their much loved traditional terracotta money pots, ever popular following the changes of the £5 note and £1 coin, continue as a gift favourite. We see some very contemporary designs in the new ranges. Featured in Harrogate will be a delicate pearlised range that changes colour at every angle, an expansion of the metallic splash range, and the fabulous addition of a copper and grey selection to complement every interior.

They offer the very best of their most popular vintage designs, and have a range of loving, humorous and memorable pots for all occasions. A Terramundi Money Pot full to the top of gold coins can hold between £500 and £700. So a lovely gift when received and even nicer when its contents is retrieved for that special treat or event.

Call: 020 8808 3818 Email: moneypots@terramundi.co.uk Visit: terramundi.co.uk

CULINARY CONCEPTS Hall M: Stand M18 Best known for their unique and timeless collections, Culinary Concepts’ reputation for producing quality and inspirational wares is well established and 2017 has seen the introduction of over 400 new, beautiful pieces that both complement and enhance their increasingly impressive catalogue.

Their best-selling lighting ranges have grown to feature more on-trend pendants and lamps including magnificent geometric framed chandeliers that create a dramatic look with real atmosphere.

The Christmas decoration range is simply stunning and very new to Culinary Concepts, having never before offered a Christmas collection.

A delightful mix of contemporary and vintage styles including LED ornaments, gorgeous beaded fabric decorations, delicate glass baubles and elegant candle holders. Each piece is beautifully hand crafted and thoughtfully designed to bring an understated, luxurious twinkle and magical touch to the home.

Distinctive barware invites you to take a walk on the wild side with the fabulous new Elephant collection along with further additions to their show-stopping Octopus series.

Harrogate will see the exclusive unveiling of their brand new Crocodile barware, plus additions to their Art-Deco range that complement the newly launched collection that proved so popular earlier this year. Visit their spectacular stand to discover this must-have brand.

Call: 01252 852235 Email: trade@culinaryconcepts.co.uk Visit: culinaryconceptsliving.com

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equilibrium

Thank you for your support You have raised

£21,462.50

Poppy

equilibrium

C O L L E C T I O N

Joe Davies and Equilibrium® would like to thank all their customers for their support of Equilibrium® Poppy Jewellery.

IN SUPPORT OF

The charity for children of the fallen

www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk

www.soldiersoffthestreet.com

A contribution of 50p from every sale has raised a total of £21,462.50 which has been split evenly between two fantastic charities; Scotty’s Little Soldiers and Soldiers Off The Street.

Equilibrium® the UK’s Hottest Jewellery Range Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk f: joedaviesgiftware

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

CHEATWELL DP1 - 89 Cheatwell Games will be exhibiting at Harrogate Home & Gift in DP1 on stand 89 with their 2017 ‘games for gifts’ lines and puzzles.

Offering exceptional value for money, their eye-catching and pocket-friendly Total Trivia contains a staggering 300 questions for an equally pocket-friendly £2.99. Cheatwell have always taken pride in the quality of their trivia questions – all written in house by their very own team of ‘questioneers’. Keeping them busy this year are two other new quiz products – Ultimate Trivia contains 4,500 questions and retails at £12.99 and the QuizMaster Range offer three titles in a more structured game.

Two new quality games with a sensible £12.99 price point offer something veryy different. Both games are super simple to learn. What makes them unique is thatt depending on the players and, in the case of Quirky, the location, the game will change subtly each time it’s played – how’s that for value for money? dback Retro doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon and they’ve had great feedback aging, on the new designs for their Great Zuchinni Range – featuring classy retro packaging, the range has a price point for everyone starting with chunky metal puzzles from £3.99 e up to elaborate wooden logic problems at £9.99. These new lines are a welcome zzles (in addition to their gift portfolio which still includes traditional IQ Buster dexterity puzzles ner Games fabulous new packaging) our World’s Smallest Jigsaw puzzles and our After Dinner Range.

Call: 02392 524098 Email: sales@cheatwell.com Visit: cheatwell.com

D&J GLASSWARE Q37 David & Jocelyne are delighted to announce that D & J Glassware has moved to new larger premises. The company had needed to move to larger premises for a while and, when the neighbouring business unit became available unexpectedly, it was too good an opportunity to miss.

‘It has been an achievement for us to move and continue to despatch in the busy run up to Easter’, explained David. ‘We would like to thank our customers for their support during the move. Having more space will mean that we can continue to give our expanding customer base great service. It is a very exciting development in our 15th Anniversary year!’

The new address is: Unit 7, Rookery Business Park, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Norfolk. NR17 2LD. All other contact details remain unchanged.

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

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Come and see the UK’s favourite glassware supplier: where quality meets design

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Home & Gift, Harrogate.

Hall Q Stand 37

Harrogate Home & Gift Show 16th - 19th July

www.dandjglassware.co.uk Tel: 01953 450280

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29/06/2017 10:09

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

ALEXANDER THURLOW Hall C: Stand C24 Alexander Thurlow are an enduring family business, passionate about jewellery and placing a special emphasis on quality, design and unrivalled customer service.

Alexander Thurlow will be showing their new modern scarf clip range at this year’s Home & Gift Festival.

Their idea was to get away from the old traditional designs and create a new modern twist to complement the huge sales that are currently selling in scarves.

Also showing will be their latest jewellery designs for autumn / winter 17 and an exciting new poppy range.

Call: 020 8766 6466 Visit alexanderthurlow.com

DARTINGTON Hall B: Stand B40 Champagne Saucer Party Celebrating its 50th Year in 2017 Dartington rocks the party with this latest set of great glasses. The set of six in-vogue coupe Champagne glasses let you serve fizz in style or can dress up a tasty desert. Presented in an eye catching box the set makes a great year-round gift or a very affordable new addition to the drinks cupboard.

Boys Night In Take the pub ‘back home’ for the boys with this Dartington set of four dishwasher safe pint glasses. Great for sharing a few beers together, these quality crystal glasses will raise a cheer every time. Supplied in eye catching packaging this latest Dartington winner makes another great man’s gift and are an easy to afford treat for any home.

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

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Destination: Address Books

Harrogate Home & Gift Show 16th - 19th July

www.seagems.co.uk

+44(0)1736 335840 sales@seagems.co.uk Š All designs protected by Sea Gems Copyright & Design Right.

See us at Home & Gift, Harrogate – Stand DP1-32 Alternatively please contact your agent or request a brochure for more information.

sales@mgml.co.uk

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museumsgalleries.co.uk

Tel: 01373 462165

28/06/2017 17:01

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

EMMA BALL DP1 – 4A These handy desk planners have been a real winner at Emma Ball since their launch in January....with an RRP of £8.00 they make the perfect (dare we say) stocking filler for any busy person!

This fabulous 100% cotton tea towel, printed un the UK, designed by Abigail Mill is now available from Emma Ball Ltd. Perfect for that holiday gift, stocking filler, or posting abroad!! RRP- £6.50

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

HIMASAL A8 Himasal are working hard to produce an innovative and beautiful range of salt lamps. People are becoming more aware of the health values of the lamps. They are bringing out a range of lamps, salt lamp burners and gift sets to support our retailers and keep customers coming back time after time.

The range of lamps are stunning when lit and they offer a comprehensive range that will meet the needs of the most discerning customers that visit retailers. Their BBQ sets are a perfect complement for summer and their fire bowls range in size to ensure there’s the right style, shape, and size for any environment.

They shall be running a prize draw at each show for a 25 Kg Salt Lamp and all people must do is drop their name into a hat on the stand and they’ll pick a winner at the end of the show with the lamp delivered to the winner the following day.

Call: 0333 733 1264 Email: sales@himasal.co.uk Visit: himasal.co.uk 74 gifts today

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29/06/2017 10:02

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

MARMALADE OF LONDON DP2 - 32 Marmalade of London is a British Home Fragrance Brand that creates a little indulgent luxury for every home. They have a passion for fragrance. Fragrance is very personal and different scents can remind us of a person, a place or a moment in time; Marmalade have created their fragrances to suit different tastes.

All their products are lovingly made in Great Britain. The candles and reed diffusers contain essential oils. The body and bath range contains natural ingredients including Shea butter, Vitamin E and Aloe Vera.

The nearest they get to animal testing is their family black Labrador Plum who accompanies them to work and sniffs the occasional Candle or Reed diffuser - she seems to approve! Please visit them for a glass of fizz at 4pm on Sunday 16 and Monday 17.

Call: 01242 257509 Visit: marmaladeoflondon.com

PORTICO DESIGNS DP1 – 12B Portico Designs will be exhibiting once again at the Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival! After exhibiting last year for the first time after a 20-year break, they are thrilled to be back for the 2017 show.

They have some really exciting product launches this summer - they have been given the incredible opportunity to collaborate with The Eden Project. The Eden Project needs very little introduction, an educational charity, whose aim is to connect us with each other and the natural living world, exploring how we can work towards a better future. This is the first time they have licensed out the brand in garden gifting and stationery and Portico are thrilled to be working with the team on this ethically sourced 20-piece collection.

Call: 01225 329494 Email: sales@porticodesigns.com Visit: porticodesigns.com

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SNUGGLE UP TO ONE OF OUR NEW WARMIES®

HARROGATE HOME & GIFT 16-19 JULY 2017 HALL B STAND 9

Intelex Group (UK) Ltd Unit 17-18 Regent Park, Park Farm Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, NN8 6GR Email: sales@intelex.co.uk Phone: 01933 679 777 Web: www.intelex.co.uk

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29/06/2017 09:57

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

LUMINARA DP2 – 47B Following a phenomenal fall launch in USA, Luminara launches in UK the first ever Fragranced Diffusing Living Flame Candle range, giving safe candle ambience with the added benefit of fragrance without flame.

Luminara fragrance diffusing candles feature eight luxurious scents crafted with rare ingredients and essential oils to diffuse subtly, safely and beautifully. And they couldn’t be easier to use. Simply pick your perfect fragrance pod, place it in your fragrance candle and then prepare to get carried away.

Their candles safely go where traditional flame candles can’t. Perfect for homes with curious kids, pets and places like bookshelves and bedrooms. No more soot on the walls or ceiling, either. You get peace of mind and a whole new world of decorating possibilities.

Luminara Fragrance Diffusing Candles offer 200 hours of fragrance from a single fragrance pod. To change your fragrance, you don’t need to buy another candle, just change the pod for a completely new aroma in your home. Each Luminara Fragrance Diffusing Candle gives 500 hours burn time from 2 x D batteries and are equipped with Infrared Remote Control and 5hr Security Timer in luxurious cylindrical gift packaging.

Natural Fragrance from Paris Fragrance House available for the European launch in June are Warm Embers, Amber, Jasmine & Neroli, Rose & Peppercorn, Orange Blossom, Spiced Cinnamon, Blackcurrant & Tea and Fig & Moss. As a special incentive to retailers there is a supplier funded launch promotion including free fragrance and free remote control combined with full web and POS support. Stocked by premier retailers Selfridges and John Lewis, don’t miss out be one of the first to offer the innovation of Luminara electronic Fragrance Diffusing Candles in your store.

Call: 01622 845995 Email: info@luminaracandles.co.uk Visit: luminaracandles.co.uk

HEAVEN SCENT Stand: Q88 A beautiful range of naturally scented candles, ethically sourced and hand poured in England. Their glass is recycled and so is most of their packaging.

The first to create a natural alternative to a paraffin wax candle over 24 years ago, the company created a unique blend of plant wax that burns cleanly and effectively infused with fine fragrances and essential oils. They also offer other natural products to complement their scented candle range.

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

THE MUSIC GIFTS COMPANY DPD-50 Twenty-two years of musical creations. It’s hard to believe that The Music Gifts Company has been designing gifts since 1995. The world may have changed in the last 22 years, but music remains timeless. The same is true for their best-selling gift The Chopin Liszt, which was the first product the company designed and remains at number one every year. Their latest creation is Musical Dominoes which tests your knowledge of music notation. This 28-tile game is made of resin and comes gift boxed, with a launch price of just £7.50 for orders at Home & Gift. Fresh off the press is a new range of stationery as well as a collection of fridge magnets. Wherever possible, the company has remained true to its origin by producing most of the gifts within the UK. With over 500 gifts on a music theme, there’s something for everyone.

Call: 01202 57 00 57 Email: enquiries@musicgifts.co.uk Visit: musicgifts.co.uk

78 gifts today

Celebrate Creativity

Home & Gift Harrogate: Hall B Stand B40

01805 626226 sales@dartington.co.uk

FIND U S AT H A R R O G AT E HOME & GIFT S TA N D DP1-87

N E W F RO M S M I L I N G FAC E S !

New from the company that brought you the best-selling, original Light Up Letters, UP IN LIGHTS, comes new and exciting Light Up Shapes. Plus, Smiling Facesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cake Candles collection relaunches with exciting new designs.

Visit us at www.smilingfaces.co.uk | 01444 882323 | Find us at Home & Gift, Harrogate. Stand DP1-87 GiftsToday_JulyIssue.indd 1

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

AROMA HOME DP1 – Stand 27 Aroma Home is pleased to announce that it has merged with Danielle Creations. The joint businesses have great synchronicity and the merger will allow both brands to expand product development to give retailers a one-stop solution for many of their gift/spa and beauty requirements.

Aroma Home will continue its growth in becoming an all year around gift solution to retailers and the company’s design led skills will also help Danielle to develop new innovative product.

Aroma Home will be launching over 100 new lines at Harrogate this year including the new Sleepy Heads range of warming novelty animals in a range of different fabrics. In addition it has extended its hugely popular ‘Snuggables’ range, warming plush animals with a removable pouch. The company is pleased to announce that it has not increased the wholesale or RRP of this range following Brexit and these soft, fun warming characters have an RRP of £12.99. The display unit comes free and will hold ‘Cosy Hotties’ and ‘Snuggables’.

‘We have great success this year with our uniquely designed ‘ Sox in a Mug ‘sets that has a number of designs targeted at the male gift market’ says Gina Martin, Key Account Manager.

Call: 02037359500 Email: katem@aromahome.com Visit: aromahome.com

NPW DP1 – 53 Trends change with the seasons and it can be hard to keep up with your customers’ latest obsession. Luckily your good pals here at NPW have got A/W17 covered. They’re devoted to travelling, discovering and researching exactly what their latest thing looks like so you can rest assured your shelves are stocked with the most impressive, on-trend range imaginable.

This season they are pleased to welcome a new stationery and lifestyle range We Live Like This – notes to self, beauty and stationery range, Mermazing plus new additions to their popular Unicorn, Vibe Squad & Drinking Buddies ranges not forgetting a brand new games collection.

NPW take care of it all: brainstorming stylish new products, designing dazzling packaging and carefully curating it all so your customers will want to collect the entire range.

Call: 020 8735 Visit: npwgifts.com

80 gifts today

ADORABLE DOORSTOPS, DRAUGHT EXCLUDERS AND MORE!

Showcasing new additions to our current collections for Autumn/Winter 2017 at

Harrogate Home & Gift 16th-19th July 2017 DP2-18 & Autumn Fair International 3rd-6th September 2017 Stand 3T22-U23 We look forward to welcoming you onto our stand!

Contact us: T: 01780 430188 - E: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk - W: www.doradesigns.co.uk

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28/06/2017 17:08

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

SMILING FACES DP1 - 87 New Light Up Shapes & Characters from Smiling Faces. New from the company that brought you Up In Lights, the original and bestselling light up letters, comes additional Light Up Shapes and Characters.

Adding to the extremely popular range of Unicorn, Cloud, Cactus, Panda and Moon and Stars, the exciting, contemporary, new designs will be in stock in early July, beautifully packaged in a rebranded box.

Call: 01444 882323 Email: sales@smilingfaces.co.uk Visit: smilingfaces.co.uk

DANIELLE CREATIONS B42

ST EVAL DP1 - 95 Bring the ambience of a balmy Tuscan evening to your back garden or terrace with these stunning outdoor candles. Available in three sizes including the eye catching three-wick candles, which certainly set the mood. The fresh lemony fragrance of Citronella is great to keep insects away and the popular Sea Salt fragrance is a blend of ozonic and citrus tones for the uplifting scent of a sea breeze.

For over twenty years, St Eval Candle company have been hand crafting candles in Cornwall using traditional methods and

82 gifts today

developing fragrances inspired by their beautiful and natural surroundings.

They source the finest ingredients for their wax blends and today produce well over 100 different types from scented candles to huge seven-wick masterpieces.

As part of the company’s ethical and sustainable trading in the UK, they erected their own wind turbine and where possible, source materials from sustainable and renewable sources.

Visit: stevalcandlecompany.co.uk

Danielle Creations are pleased to announce that they have merged with Aroma Home and Voluspa Candles. The joint businesses have great synchronicity and the merger will allow both brands to expand product development to give retailers a one stop solution for many of their gift/spa and beauty requirements.

Danielle Creations will continue to become a one-stop shop for all your beauty needs. They are constantly creating new and innovative products which make unique gifts. They have created over 100 new products that will be launching this year at Harrogate.

Their hugely popular distribution line of Korean face masks is the hottest trend in the beauty industry in the last 10 years. They have two new masks; the #1 Korean hair mask called ‘Ggongji’ & the ‘Camellia’ the full face sheet mask. A beauty lover’s Dream. Other Hot products are new items in the ‘Erase your Face’ line and new Damsel in D-Stress Emergency kits for Beauty & Pet lovers. As always they have their brand new Premium range of Men’s and Women’s Wash bags.

Email: sales@danielle-ltd.co.uk Call: 01277 220842 Visit: danielle-ltd.co.uk

Carrie Elspeth H A N D M A D E

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Autumn 2017 Collection Home & Gift, Harrogate - Stand DP1-36 sales@carrieelspeth.com | 01446 771271 | www.carrieelspeth.com

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Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

TRENDS AT HOME & GIFT This year’s show will see the launch of a huge range of products so whatever your customers’ tastes, you will find a great selection of gift ideas being introduced for the first time.

MADPAX Stand G53 Multi-award winning backpack brand MadPax will be introducing its new Monsters collection, a range of funky colourful bubble bags that feature monsters and include temporary tattoos designed by Ankepanke.

These bags are loved by celebrities including Kate Hudson, Ben Affleck, Heidi Klum, Kourtney Kardashian and Hugh Jackman and make a great Christmas gift for kids.

Visit: madpaxworld.com

SPONGELLE Stand G8 Spongelle will be launching the perfect Manicure and Pedicure Treat for dry hands and tired feet. Infused with a skin-softening formulation and soothing extracts of peppermint and sea kelp, these dual sided buffers are the solution to silky polished hands and feet. They will also be bringing their Zodiac Collection of Buffers with built in Body Wash.

Visit: spongelle.co.uk

Yankee Candle Stand Q23 The festive ‘Perfect Christmas’ Yankee Candle range for 2017 incudes Perfect Tree, which recreates that unique Christmas Tree scent in your home. The range will be available from October 2017 and the hugely popular company will also be premiering the brand new S/S 18 fragrances at the show.

Visit: yankeecandle.co.uk

84 gifts today

CARDS AT HOME & GIFT Enhance your greetings card offering at the show. Check out the offerings from these companies.

THE ART FILE Stand DP1-23 The Art File are delighted to announce they will be launching two brand-new stationery collections - an evolution of the extremely popular Call Me Frank stationery collection, and a beautiful female-orientated stationery look called Wild Berry.

Call: 0115 850 7490 Visit: theartfile.com

I LIKE BIRDS Stand GS55 Beloved by the design-conscious and bird-obsessed alike, high-flying I Like Birds’ beautiful bird-based greetings cards can already be found among the best gift shops, nature reserves and galleries across Britain – and this summer they’ll be making their first appearance at Harrogate.

Call: 07581 282820 Visit: ilikebirds.net

REALLY WILD CARDS NATURAL PARTNERS Stand GS25 The company is getting ready for a bumper release of 290 new card designs at the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival. The selection includes ranges from seven artists new to the company – Sarah Campbell, Jos Haigh, Caroline Hodson, Fi Powers, Karen Risby, Louise Scott and Jo Scott. There are also new designs from several of their established favourites such as Andy Broderick, Fiona Calder, Clare Lindley, Morag Lloyds and Nikki Monaghan. The company already have a reputation for quality fine art cards and are now starting to add occasions and humour to its offering so, whatever your tastes, it’s worth going along to have a look!

Call: 07714 768956 Visit: naturalpartnersart.co.uk

Stand GS76c The company is making sure customers can definitely get the bird in the nicest possible way with the newly-released Stamp collection.

Featuring Royal Mail stamp drawings of British birds, the latest audio designs are married with the sounds from the Birdsong range to bring the cards to life.

Call: 020 3174 1144 Visit: reallywildcards.com gifts today 85

Profile - Classic Canes

Stick with me As walking stick specialist Classic Canes celebrates its 35th anniversary in business this year, MD Charlotte Gillan reminisces about growing up with the family business.

‘The story of Classic Canes began in the late 1970s when my parents returned from a period working in Singapore. They bought a woodland in Somerset which contained a ruined Tudor hunting lodge and, whilst they were rebuilding the house, they discovered that the surrounding woodland was naturally producing suitable raw material for walking sticks.

‘Enquiries to local retailers revealed a demand for walking sticks and so the wholesale business of Classic Canes was launched in 1982. Some other suppliers had ceased trading which helped us open our first accounts. The early 1980s recession was a challenging time to launch a new business but it taught us how to run the business tightly and never take the boom times for granted.

‘The raw material was initially sold to the famous Coopers walking stick factory in Surrey and bought back as finished sticks.

My mother called on prospective customers such as tobacconists and leather goods shops in between doing the school run, selling from the boot of her car. Soon, the retailers demanded greater variety and the selection of walking sticks grew.

‘My parents did all the work themselves at this stage, from harvesting walking sticks to writing invoices by hand in triplicate and making the deliveries. Walking sticks were piled up in the kitchen 86 gifts today

and quite frequently in our bedrooms too, until a small wooden outbuilding could be constructed to house them. My brother and I helped put code numbers on sticks and Johnny learned to count by sorting rubber ferrules into bags of ten. Years later, after the Coopers factory had closed, Johnny would set up the Classic Canes workshop, which specialises in producing unusual walking sticks in smaller batches.

‘A delivery van was purchased and our father would take us on journeys all over the south-west to visit customers, many of whom would press boxes of fudge and other delights into our little hands. Unfortunately, this generosity dried up once we became teenagers and were no longer so cute, but we still learned a great deal from visiting retailers in their shops and seeing what their problems and opportunities were.

We would discuss them afterwards with our father who would ask us questions, such as why we thought one shopkeeper wasn’t doing as well as another or how we thought we could help a particular retailer improve their sales. Indeed, these are questions we still ask ourselves every day.

‘Today, our marketing campaigns take many forms - trade fairs, the website, social media, email and postal newsletters, special events and so on. Then it was not so easy. Digital printing did not exist and it was difficult and expensive for small companies to print small runs of price lists, catalogues and business cards. Also, without the

internet, it was extremely hard to locate potential suppliers or stockists around the world, or for them to locate us. Instead, directories had to be consulted in the county library or enquiries made of overseas embassies. On the plus side, it was also a lot more difficult for one’s competitors to find out these things.

‘Business took much longer to conclude, too.

Air mail letters had to go back and forth to export customers and international payments took forever to clear. Now we can email our catalogue to a new overseas enquiry, and often receive an order and even their payment the same day.

‘Fortunately not all the work is done by the family anymore. We have gradually acquired a loyal team of employees, most of whom have been with us for at least ten years, and one for 28. Our rural location makes finding staff difficult but, when the fit is right, people stay a long time. We can’t offer a staff gym or gold plated pensions, but a pleasant environment, interesting work and flexible working arrangements go a long way to minimising staff turnover.

‘Another change is that there is far more cheap competition around now due to the rise of manufacturing in China. There are no formal standards governing walking sticks in the UK and the quality of some of the very cheap sticks on the market is appalling. Instead, Classic Canes has developed to serve the middle to upper end of the walking stick market, selling to those retailers who value good quality products and knowledgeable service over rock bottom prices. Also, a family business is a way of life and who wants to spend their working day resolving endless quality issues and dealing with disgruntled customers?

‘As a family business, we find it interesting that the vast majority of our customers are independent retailers and many are family businesses themselves.

We have a few stockists that have been with us since those early days and many more that have sold Classic Canes for over 20 years.

‘Moving on, we have our challenges like all small businesses. We need to re-home Classic Canes in larger premises because additional storage space is required. We will also be watching the Brexit negotiations carefully as a large proportion of our business is export, much of it to Europe, and we don’t want to see that made more difficult. However, they say every challenge is also an opportunity.

We hope to develop new export markets and find interesting new retailers for our products. The ways and means of doing business have changed so much in the time we have run Classic Canes. It will be fascinating to see how the business continues to change and develop over the next 35 years.’

gifts today 87

Social Media - Ross Hewitt

It’s all about the people, people As we hurtle through an age where marketing communications have been abducted by technology and the ability to tweet, post or email, it’s easy to be distracted from the fact that people like to deal with people.

T

he core principles of marketing revolve around what is known as the Four Ps. They are: 1. Product – the thing(s) you make or sell 2. Place of Distribution – where the products are sold 3. Promotion – the actual communication and advertising undertaken 4. Price – how much it sells for and its position in the market

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 88 gifts today

All those four core elements combine to create a marketing position. Ideally it is via a strategy that combines those Four Ps into a symbiotic and successful harmony that leads to products being sold in the ‘right’ brand environment in response to efficient consumer messaging at a price that manufacturers and retailers make profit on.

It seems quite simple when it is put like that.

There is a fifth ‘P’ that I believe is always the most important part of the marketing mix…and that is ‘People’.

The finest examples of ‘People’ as a marketing thing in our industry in the UK will be visible throughout the forthcoming Harrogate Home & Gift Show.

Products on plinths and hangers and platforms look great, but people are what bring them to life. A new gift range displayed on a stand can be cooed at but having the owner or creator talk you through it is golden.

Being brought that cup of coffee when you sit down in someone’s booth to discuss orders, after an hour of traipsing around the halls is all part of the sales and marketing

experience. Chewing the fat and having your questions answered there and then by a person is important for so many business decisions at a trade show. Being able to play together as an industry for a few hours is also crucial, so make sure the conversations continue in the bars and restaurants during the evening.

It’s all marketing, but it is the very

“

Products on plinths and hangers and platforms look great, but people are what bring them to life

”

human side of marketing…the bits you can really believe in and enjoy. The bits you warm to.

People like to deal with people.

People who enable face to face business always get my maximum respect so I raise my glass (erm, mug actually) as I write this to the brands who will be displaying in Harrogate and manning a stand for the four days. I keep it raised to the retailers who are making the trip too.

People like people who go the extra mile and contribute to the industry

with passion. Retailers appreciate brands that make the effort, and brands appreciate the retailers that take time away from their stores to come and see them…and it kind of works doesn’t it, and isn’t it good for business generally? Fancy that, something that has been a cornerstone of good business for hundreds of years still works!

When it comes to your marketing communications, it’s worth considering how personable your business is. When you do communicate electronically, whether it be responding to questions on Facebook or sending out an email newsletter, is it clear that a real person has written it, and will the reader feel like this is a person that they would like to spend time listening to? Have a look back through your recent online activity and see how well it scores on a human scale.

What happens when someone walks into your store at 4.55pm?

Do you or your sales team internally sigh and quickly point out that you are closing in five minutes’ time, or does that last-minute gift shopper who is currently bewildered by how many darn products are available get some personal attention and advice, followed by a ‘thank you’?

‘People’ create customers, and customers are more valuable than sales. A result of a customer is a sale but a result of a sale is not necessarily a customer. Customers tell their friends about you and customers come back when they need the next thing, all of which increases sales.

Harrogate will be a great success because of people…now how can you make ‘People’ work for your business?

Stylish & practical for those

“On The Go Men”

A fabulous New collection of travel mugs, the perfect gift for busy guys to keep their favourite drink hot or cold wherever they go.

Contact us to reserve your stock of this Summer 2017 launch, as well as other items in our fantastic men’s gift range.

Travel Mug

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Award winning BBQ set Lap Tray

ARORA DESIGN LTD, WORCESTER, ENGLAND

2016

T: +44 (0)1386 861666 Arora GTFullDesigns.indd page Ad June117 UGFM.indd 1

e: sales@arora-design.co.uk

w: www.aroratrade.co.uk 07/06/201712:22:19 16:08 07/06/2017

New Products GIFT IDEAS FROM ARORA DESIGN The company continues to create and innovate. Take a look at these three ranges…

Said With Sentiment The success of Arora Design’s Said with Sentiment brand continues to grow with these fantastic gift sets that encompass both a tea light holder and photo frame presented in a window gift box. This brand has a strong and proven track record at retail, in store, on line and also with mail order.

Both the tea light holder and the frame are ingeniously designed with artwork and text to give the perception of a hand written, and hand drawn message.

Initially available in the new gift sets are sentiments for Friendship, Daughter, Mum and Sister - all perfect gifts for friends or loved ones. Tea light holders are also available individually in branded gift boxes, and whether purchased as a single item or as part of a gift set each holder has a tea light included.

For Men ‘On the Go’ Stylish and practical this fabulous collection of travel mugs is the perfect gift for those men ‘On the go.’ Part of Arora Design’s smart gifts for men range ‘The Ultimate Gift For Man,’ the first sports to be covered in this line are Cycling, Golf, Rugby, and Football with Dad and Grandad getting in on the act as well.

Also available in this ever growing range are BBQ Sets, an apron and three implements one of which has an integrated bottle opener, Mugs in Tins and Lap Trays covering other sports and past times such as Angler, Cook, Dart Player, Cricket, Gardener, Petrol Head, and Rambler. Each design imparts information on the theme, and in some cases includes the quirks of the game.

Keep an eye on the website as due to their phenomenal take off, more travel mug designs are planned for later in the second half of the year.

A family collection, piece by piece Ingenious and innovative in their design, the popularity of Arora Design’s Said with Sentiment Jigsaw range continues to grow. Added to the collection for Summer 2017 are designs with photo apertures that cover ‘Forever Loved’, ‘Special Moments’, ‘Wedding,’ ‘Devoted Dog’, ‘Cherished Cat’ and ‘Perfect Pet.’ Each jigsaw can be displayed as a stand-alone piece, or hung on the wall with several pieces from the range to form a family or friendship collection. This jigsaw wall art has proven highly successful at retail both in store, on line and with mail order, with many consumers choosing to purchase a collection of pieces to form their own family story as a self-purchase or as a family gift for friends or loved ones.

Call: 01386 861666 Email: sales@arora-design.co.uk Visit: aroratrade.co.uk

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Mix. Match.

Melt.

Create a bespoke home ambience that perfectly complements your mood.

- Choose from over 30 unique fragrances.

- 8 ceramic burners.

- Dedicated merchandising solutions.

T +44 (0)800 169 5126 sales@uk.bolsius.com www.bolsiusaromatic.com

Bolsius.indd 1

09/06/2017 16:20

New Products

INSPIRED BY ITALY, MADE IN ENGLAND

Di Palomo offer English luxury with a delightful Italian influence… Fond memories of Italy led the company to create four ranges, each with its own unique inspiration.

Exquisite packaging and fine fragrances will carry you away to the warmth and relaxation of an Italian summer…from a Tuscan farmhouse in the early morning to an evening walk through the orange groves or a vineyard overlooking an Italian lake.

All made in the UK using the finest quality ingredients and free of parabens and harsh chemicals. Style, quality and attention to detail have been combined to create four truly indulgent ranges.

The range includes Eau de Parfum, Bath, Body & Home Fragrance with price points ranging from £4 to £25.

Di Palomo offers a full support package to retailers including point of sales material, display stands, testers and gift with purchase offers.

The brand is now well established in the UK gift market, and is particularly suited to high quality gift shops, department stores and garden centres.

For Autumn 2017, Di Palomo have launched a brand new collection of gift sets.

Beautifully packaged and presented with ribbons and gift tags, there are six different sets, each available in all four fragrances. With names like ‘Pamper Yourself’, Treat Yourself’ and ‘Just for You’, this new range of sets offers a personal touch and message for each gift.

In addition to the pre-made sets, empty boxes are available for stores to offer a gift-wrap service for customers who prefer to create their own gift.

For more information about becoming a Di Palomo stockist, or for details of the new gift collection, contact Rob Tyler (Sales Director).

Call: 01803 612772 Email robt@dipalomo.com Visit: dipalomo.com 92 gifts today

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New Products

A/W 17 COLLECTIONS FROM LANGS Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots to explore over at Langs, the family import and wholesale business, established over 50 years ago. Just four of the new ranges worth taking a closer look at are:

The Everyday Collection They say laughter is the best medicine and some of the new plaques will definitely make you do that! Soft neutral colours mixed with some quirky metal animal heads, lots of one-off pieces make this collection a stand out from the crowd.

Hollywood Glamour Lights, camera, action! The inspiration for this dazzling collection comes from Hollywood, V.I.P and Art Deco. Black and gold metallic with a hint of gold sparkle give these pieces sophistication, with added tones of coral and mint to add that touch of femininity.

Love Your Home Think cosy, warm and snuggling on the sofa, a place to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures in your own sanctuary. This style of living has come from the Danish word Hygge (pronounced Hoo-ga) which translates into English as cosiness. Soft colours of grey and pink complement this range of candle holders, lights and cushions all of which make ordinary everyday things more meaningful and special.

Rosy Glow The latest hot dĂŠcor trend, this is a very sophisticated colour that is stealing the spotlight. Its soft feminine hues of pink rose-gold glitter, mixed with champagne gold, bring a truly sumptuous feel to the pieces Langs have created. Many different items make this a stand-out collection.

Call: 01332 340927 Email: sales@richardlang.co.uk Visit: richardlang.co.uk

94 gifts today

BATH

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Perfect Gift

Discover our New Collection of 24 Gift Sets plus empty boxes for your customer to Create their own Gift

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Black Cherry almond

ORDER NOW FOR SEPTEMBER DELIVERY

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23/06/2017 15:23

New Products SEASONAL AUTUMN COLLECTION FROM BOLSIUS

The Seasonal Autumn Collection from Bolsius consists of four brand new scents to suit the season; Autumn Walk, Home Comfort, Frosted Garden and Celebrate.

On sale from September 2017, these scents come in four styles to choose from including small glass candles, reed diffusers, three-wick candles and tea lights.

Not only do these products make ideal gifts, they also fit in with many styles of interior. Perfect for adding a warm and cosy feel just in time for the autumn/ winter seasons when the weather begins to cool.

Visit: bolsius.co.uk

CALLING ALL WIZARDS

Harry Potter fans will love to brighten up any space with the new Gryffindor and Hogwarts House Crest string lights from Groovy UK. Twelve folded plastic, die-cut shaped crests are illuminated by yellow LEDs with a 2.5m cable length. 2 x AA batteries (not included).

Packaged in three-sided window full colour box, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect pressie for a wannabe wizard!

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

SHOWROOM FOR STRAITS

Despite their absence from the Harrogate Home & Gift exhibition, Straits will have their showrooms open throughout the show period. Here, all their new collections for the A/W seasons, including many Christmasspecific items, will be showcased in a range comprising over 3,000 items.

They are less than 50 miles drive from Harrogate and can easily be tied into a visit whilst attending the exhibition.

To arrange a showroom appointment or to request a copy of the latest catalogue please contact their sales office.

Call: 01254 300260 Email: sales@straitstrading.com Visit: straitstrading.com

96 gifts today

‘What’s new’ is the biggest question we hear you ask?

At Lang’s, we have been very busy designing our latest collections for the autumn/winter season. You could say that we are brimming with excitement with all of the gift ideas we have lined up for you!

We have given you a glimpse of some of our favourites and we have many more collections, including sweet teen, a fun vibrant collection of sparkles and sprinkles, the unicorn has been a great range, so we have added some more pieces to tempt you. Your only problem will be wanting to buy it all!

THE EVERYDAY COLLECTION They say laughter is the best medicine and some of our new plaques will definitely make you do that! Soft neutral colours mixed with some quirky metal animal heads, lots of oneoff pieces make this collection a stand out from the crowd!

HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR Lights, camera, action! Our inspiration for this dazzling collection comes from Hollywood, V.I.P and Art Deco. Black and gold metallic with a hint of gold sparkle give these pieces sophistication, with added tones of coral and mint to add that touch of femininity. A truly fabulous array of gifts for that very important person.

LOVE YOUR HOME Think cosy, warm and snuggling on the sofa, a place to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures in your own sanctuary. This style of living has come from the Danish word Hygge (pronounced Hooga) which translates into English as cosiness. Soft colours of grey and pink complement this range of candle holders, lights and cushions all of which make ordinary everyday things more meaningful and special.

See us at Home & Gift Harroga te Stand B1 8

ROSY GLOW The latest hot décor trend, this is a very sophisticated colour that is stealing the spotlight.

Its soft feminine hues of pink rose-gold glitter, mixed with champagne gold, bring a truly sumptuous feel to the pieces we have created.

Many different items make this a stand-out collection. Our favourite is the gorgeous ‘follow your dreams’ cushion with sequins and pompoms which are another very popular accessory this year.

It’s ‘all hands to the wheel’ to create our stand for the Harrogate Home & Gift Fair, lots of paint, glitter and teamwork from all at Lang’s. All we need is a visit from you! We are really excited to show you all of the new collections, along with some of our classics, and our festive Christmas collections will also be making an appearance …… see you there!!

Richard Lang & Son Ltd 1 Little Chester Park, Alfreton Road Derby DE21 4AA T: 01332 340927 E: sales@richardlang.co.uk W: www.richardlang.co.uk

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28/06/2017 10:53

New Products LUCKY FEATHER FROM WIDDOP

Lucky Feather was created to fill the niche for pretty, trendy, delightful jewellery at a price that everyone can afford. Bright packaging and inspirational words make the most perfect caring gifts even for yourself.

Eight collections include silver customizable jewellery in both with a choice of 20 different charms and ‘Best Day Ever’ necklaces, perfect gifts for the entire wedding party. The trend for inspirational quotes is captured in the Strong and Sassy collection – how about ‘Yes She Can’ as a daily encouragement!

Each piece in the range is made from either 14 carat gold dipped or sterling silver over a zinc base.

The design of the range doesn’t stop with the product but continues right through to the coordinating gift box or carded packaging and branded counter top displays and backing card for each collection.

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

NEW FROM SANDY BAY Not…Just For Him

If you’re looking for something different, then look no further. Sandy Bay Gentlemen’s Club Collection is designed for men, but the ladies love it too. The range is presented in impressive black and gold glassware, with the stylish branding featured on both the candle and packaging. The range comprises six on-trend Fine Fragrance Blends which have been given catchy names such as City Boy, Forever Man, The Charmer, True Gentleman, Countryman and The Boss.

Sandy Bay use only premium ingredients in all their fragrance blends so the quality of the fragrance shines through when the candle is both lit and unlit. All products are produced on site at their facility in Epping by their team of skilled candle-makers. Being a Heritage brand, quality is key, where possible they source materials from the UK so they have total quality control. Their candles are made with their own exclusive Natural Wax which is blended on site, and contains 98 gifts today

coconut wax, this offers an exceptional burn quality and a very good fragrance throw. The Autumn/Winter Season sees the introduction of the ultimate luxurious stunning Multi-Wick Candles, and a spicy new Festive Season Fragrance.

Then there’s Sandy Bay’s Home Collection, featuring six fabulous fragrances such as Persian Rose, Lemongrass & Lime, Orange Amaro, Driftwood, White Tea & Lily, and Pomegranate Rouge. Each candle is presented in a stylish white branded glass, and stunning taupe packaging which merchandises beautifully in store.

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

The Walking S ck Specialists

Introducing our new range of 12 walking

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

s cks and folding canes based on pain ngs

by Bosschaert, Van Gogh and Stubbs.

www.classiccanes.co.uk

HEART OF HEARTS!

Brand new from Wild Things Gifts, a mirror finished brass heart ornamented exclusively with Swarovski hearts and beads. This beautiful Heart of Hearts will add colour to any window, sparkle to any room.

Designed and handmade in Devon, it is a great addition to the Wild Things range of Crystal Fantasies - now featuring more than 60 designs. Motifs range from tree of life to birds, insects to fairies, sea life to cats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and recently, the Esoteric range including the Green Man, the hare and the Vesica Pisces.

Wild Things Gifts are the leading supplier of high quality crystal window ornaments, with most products made locally and exported all over the world.

Displays range from dresser style booths to self-lit hanging displays, from floor standing trees to counter stands. Constant evolution!

Call: 01392 211268 Email: sales@wildthingsgifts.com Visit: wildthingsgifts.com gifts today 99

New Products

10 Years of Manor House

Manor House launched its 10th anniversary catalogue earlier this year - consisting of 21 fragrance collections, all consisting of their trademark pot pourris, scented botanical candles, room diffusers and sprays, drawer liners and sachets along with their newly launched collection of luxury hand washes.

All products are produced by hand in their Suffolk workrooms, using mainly British packaging and fragrances. The company uses 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.

Manor House are currently supplying many leading garden centres, gift shops and department stores. They work with many leading companies on bespoke private label collections, and can tailor a collection to your requirements using a client’s own fragrances, labelling and ribbons.

Please telephone or e-mail for a copy of their new 2017 catalogue and price list, as the web site is currently being constructed.

Call: 01359 250720 Email: darren@manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk Visit: manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

British Summer Time

Have a Strawberry Summer with Lesser & Pavey’s brand new tabletop range called Strawberry Fayre. The range is of the highest quality and consists of: glass cutting board laptray tea towels and napkins shopping bag two different shaped fine china mugs cup and saucer breakfast mug sets of two mugs and four mugs teapot and tea for one accompanied by a jug and sugar/ cream coasters and placemats three sizes of melamine trays teabag tidy spoonrest scented candles to bring the summer fragrances into the home.

The displays have feminine colours and themes and offers the quality of products and packaging that is expected of Lesser & Pavey.

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

HARRY POTTER MAGIC

Add a bit of Hogwarts inspiration to your jewellery merchandise with some official Harry potter merchandise from The Carat Shop. There’s a new Cutie Collection launched in June, consisting of charms, bracelets, necklaces and pin badges. The range includes Hagrid, Malfoy, Ron, Hermione, Hedwig, Dobby and Luna, as well as the main man, Harry.

Email: info@thecaratshop.co.uk Visit: thecaratshop.co.uk

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Sales Agents Required Organisation: Mathilde Creations Location: Opportunities-UK & Ireland inc Channel Islands Salary/ Offer : 10% Commission with Incentives MATHILDE CREATIONS Specialist in home fragrance and decoration for 30 years.

Mathilde Creations is based in Macon, French Burgundy.

The group owns 3 different brands MathildeM, Orval Creations and Art Tempo.

Product Ranges: • Home Fragrance & Scented Decorations • Diffusers, Scented Candles • Soaps & Perfumes • Home & Bath • Decorative Artificial Flowers • Home Textiles, Furniture,Tableware.

The design Staff presents 2 collections for each brand Spring-Summer and AutumnWinter, with more than 800 new products per year, All created with passion and enthusiasm.

Company Information can be found on www.mathilde-m.com • www.orval-creations.com

For more information please contact Mike Day at Michael.day@mathilde-m.com

AGENTS REQUIRED Liberty Candles are blended soy wax candles infused with the finest American fragrance oils in a choice of smooth wax finish (Homestead range) or premium mottled wax (Heritage range).

The Homestead range offers 18 fragrances with stylish bronze labelling and a coordinated range of jar candles, tealights and votives; the Heritage range offers 16 fragrances with premium metallic accented labels.

Agents • • • • • • •

are required for the following regions: Scotland North West North East Midlands South East South West South Wales

For further details, or to apply for this role, please email: sales@libertycandles.co.uk

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Sales Manager, Paperstyle Books Paperstyle Books is the wholesale division of Ryland Peters & Small, award winning gift and lifestyle publishers, with a successful track record of producing cutting edge books built over twenty years. Since its inception in 2013, Paperstyle has grown quickly into a leading supplier of books to gift markets in the UK. We are looking for a Sales Manager to continue this growth and take us into new markets in the UK. The remit also potentially includes buying from third party suppliers and managing field agents, which will be determined by experience and your desire to closely manage these sides of the business. A creative approach and an eye for identifying sales trends within the gift market are desirable.

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter including your current salary to Danny Parnes – danny.parnes@rps.co.uk. Closing date for applications is 17th July. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. www.paperstylebooks.co.uk

29/06/2017 12:00

Toys for Gift Shops

With the British toy market now worth £3.2 billion – the biggest toy market in Europe – it makes sense to find space, big or small, in store to entice buyers who are looking for something special for the little people in their lives.

It’s Playtime!

F

igures from the 2016 Toy Fair indicate there’s been a recent 5.9 per cent rise in British toy sales, proving the business of UK toys to be big business. While you can’t compete with the big specialist retailers and supermarkets when it comes to toys, there are plenty of options out there for gift shops when it comes to toy treats. The toy market is absolutely huge but the key may be to consider exactly which customer you are aiming to attract.

From a christening gift to a birthday present for a young child, from pocket money treats to a wooden toy that’ll be treasured for a lifetime, there’s plenty out there to boost your toy and games offering.

Pocket Money Treats Covering everything from ubiquitous fidget spinners, yo-yos, skittles and hopscotch, eye-catching pocket money toys are priced to encourage impulse purchase.

‘Good quality but affordable pocket money toys are continuing to drive sales,’

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comments Lauren Woodsford from the House of Marbles. ‘Especially popular are ones with a wooden element as they have a higher perceived value to them.’

At House of Marbles, as with several other companies, many pocket money toys come packaged in attractive counter displays for hassle-free retailing. ‘Their great price points really encourage those important impulse buys,’ says Lauren. One of her favourite products in the company’s range is the Pocket Kite. ‘It’s always great to see a customer’s reaction when they realise that a surprisingly good kite comes in such a little bag,’ she says. ‘It comes in a brightly coloured counter display, too, so it looks very attractive in a shop display.’

Licenses When it comes to toys for the nursery, the licensed sector continues to grow and grow, with classic and new licenses flourishing. Enesco are a great company to get to know in this sector, reporting that their Peter Rabbit Gund collection is going from strength to strength with parents, grandparents and children all responding well to the Beatrix Potter characters. For slightly older children, the company’s Pusheen range continues to be popular, especially the runaway success of their Mystery Box range.

Timeless Classics Adults looking for something special for a child are often drawn to traditional toys that’ll be treasured for years. ‘In an era when the appeal of anything digital is racing ahead, the strength in the toy world of traditional building sets is a welcome surprise,’

says Frederique Tutt, Global Toy Industry Analyst. The likes of Orange Tree Toys is a great place to look when it comes to traditional wooden toys suitable for babies, toddlers and young children. Says Phoebe Goodchild: ‘Our number puzzles are very popular, especially in the Lion and Pink Mouse designs.’

For all ages, too, don’t overlook the joy of a jigsaw!

‘Piecing together jigsaw puzzles as a pastime is a trend that has increased dramatically this year,’ says Samantha Goodburn from Gibsons. ‘In March, jigsaws were added to the basket of goods used to keep track of inflation, which demonstrated that jigsaw puzzles are now part of the nation’s modern shopping habits. We are thrilled that this fantastic hobby is finally recognised by the mainstream consumer and, as a result, we have introduced a record number of puzzles this season.’

So, if you’re looking to venture into the world of toys for your store, it may be worth thinking small with pocket money treats, big with licensing brands and traditional with wooden toys and timeless pastimes.

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28/06/2017 13:37

Toys,Games&Puzzles

Mickey at Marbel

Take a look at the exciting new array of hand painted licensed figurines Bullyland have to offer, taking some of children’s most loved TV favourites and making them a reality. From one of the biggest children’s distributors Marbel, new ranges include Cars 3, The Chubby Unicorn, Roadster Racers and, of course, Mickey Mouse.

Call: 0845 6000 286 Email: sales@marbel.co.uk Visit: marbel.co.uk

Spitfire style from Cheatwell

Joining the ever-popular Build Your Own 3D range is the iconic Supermarine Spitfire. The detailed 3D models need no glue or tools to assemble – the clever paper engineering means that the model can be put together by folding and pushing the tabs in place. It’s a perfect gift for either the plane or model enthusiast, as well as those difficult to buy for individuals.

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Instore displays are available depending on MOQ.

Call: 02393 524098 Email: sales@cheatwell.com Visit: cheatwell.com

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09/06/2017 10:08

Toys,Games&Puzzles

Playtime with House of Marbles

Following the huge demand of their mid-year range last year, House of Marbles are delighted to offer an even better collection this year - with masses of new toys and games for customers to choose from.

Much of the range has been inspired by classic toys and games throughout the ages, so retailers can expect a high quality selection of well-loved products including a nostalgic Snakes and Ladders game. All come in gorgeous vintage-style packaging designed by the team. One new addition to the range and looking to be a huge success is their Little Red Riding Hood Shadow Puppets Kit. Presented in a beautifully illustrated gift box, children will absolutely love making their own shadow puppet show with the puppets and re-chargeable torch included.

Call: 01626 835358 Visit: houseofmarbles.com

Delicious ideas from Gibsons

The Krispy Kreme jigsaw is a delightful gift that captures the joy of Krispy Kreme in puzzle form. With 500 pieces of appetizing, melt-in-your-mouth doughnut delight, the circular shaped puzzle is sure to have us all salivating. Filled to the brim with flavours, including Lemon Cheesecake, Strawberries & Kreme and Nutty Chocolatta, this puzzle is perfect for anyone who wants to dig in to a tasty treat.

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

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09/06/2017 10:31

Toys,Games&Puzzles

Traditional fun from Orange Tree

Traditional wooden toys will always make a beautiful gift for little ones; Orange Tree Toys have a large range of toys and nursery items, all presented in beautifully designed packaging.

With the rise in events such as baby showers and Christenings, occasions to purchase gifts throughout the year has risen, and therefore the demand from the consumer has also.

The variety offers a price point to suit everyone, starting with the smaller pocket money toys such as push ups, pull alongs, and individual vehicles, to the mid-range popular push alongs, mini puzzles and vehicle sets, up to the high range items like the Alphabet puzzles and trains; all of which make wonderful gifts!

Call: 01242 244500 Email: sales@orangetreetoys.com Visit: orangetreetoys.com

Sweet, sweet music from Tobar

Check out the Mechanical Singing Bird from Tobar. This miniature wooden cage contains a feathered bird that moves realistically in time to its chirps. Simply turn the key from underneath to hear a string of cheerful notes!

Visit: tobar.co.uk

Wasgij Celebrates the Big 20!

To officially start the Wasgij 20th Anniversary celebrations, Jumbo Games have released the Special Edition Wasgij Original 27: 20th Party Parade!

1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle. The puzzle is themed around a celebratory village parade, with faces new and old joining in the party.

The unique Wasgij Original puzzle concept is the most popular choice for fans and challenges puzzlers to use their imaginations to piece together what the people in the picture on the box are looking at.

Call: 01707 289289 Email: uk.saleshotline.@jumbo.eu Visit: jumbo.eu 108 gifts today

Perfect Puzzle Presents and Gift Games.

Great Gi All NEW for 2017

www.cheatwell.com

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For more re information nformation and a copy of our latest catalogue please contact mark@cheatwell.com or call 02392 524098

29/06/2017 10:19

Steiff UK

‘Soft cuddly friends’ from Steiff A fresh new collection of soft toys from the makers of the world’s first teddy bear looks set to delight a whole new generation of children.

W

hen Margarete Steiff created the world’s first soft toy in 1880, little did she realise the enormity of the gift that she was giving to children everywhere. In 1902, her nephew Richard designed the Steiff company’s signature invention - the teddy bear! Now, in the summer of 2017, a new exciting development arrives from the very same buildings in Giengen, Germany, that the world’s first teddy bear was born. The company’s new ‘Soft Cuddly Friends’ embrace all the ingredients that made Steiff famous – ultra-high quality materials, intricate hand craftsmanship, and the famous ‘Button in Ear’ – in a fresh new collection of contemporary styles designed to appeal to today’s children.

Steiff has always devoted itself to making the very best soft toys for children and embracing innovation imagination and perfection. As Margarete Steiff herself

110 gifts today

said: ‘For children, only the best is good enough.’

Still renowned for creating unrivaled ‘life like’ animals, Steiff are thrilled to add this extra dimension of playful characters that are sure to become friends for life. Soft as soft can be, always ready for the biggest cuddle possible, the new kids in town are guaranteed to be a big hit with children of all ages. They’re destined to become a child’s most cherished companions, day in and day out.

This new range is, of course,, machine washable and manufactured to the highest standard. But what will surprise you is the pricing thatt accompanies this fabulous new collection.

Soft and cuddly friends are available in many designs and in three sizes, retailing at £14.90, £22.90 and £34.90. A full range of gift able plus floor boxing is available and shelf displays to support as POS. The story of Steiff is full of adventure, ambition and innovation, lavish with romance, nostalgia and childhood dreams. It is the story of a company responsible for the unequalled popularity of the teddy bear, the world’s most favourite soft toy. Over 100 years later and the popularity of Steiff has spread the entire globe and grabbed International headlines as antique bears, made of traditional

mohair and firmly filled with w wood wool, set world record prices at auction.

Proud of their heritage yyet forward-looking and vventuresome, Steiff never sstops chasing dreams. After all, just what would bedtime a be like if there were no cuddly b friends to snuggle up to? fr Unimaginable!

U

M Margarete Steiff UK Email: Em leyla.maniera@steiff.com ley Call: 01483 266643 Ca Margarete Steiff UK, Astra Ma House, The Common, Ho Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8RZ.

CUDDLE UP FOR CHARITY

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hen it comes to soft toys, you couldn’t do better than a classic Peter Rabbit, Beatrix Potter’s most famous character. Gund’s Peter Rabbit soft toys make enchanting gifts but, importantly, they also raise vital charitable funds to celebrate the amazing work of Great Ormond Street Hospital. GOSH brings together the broadest range of dedicated children’s healthcare specialists under one roof in the UK. This hospital’s pioneering research and treatment gives hope to children from across the UK with the rarest, most complex and often life-threatening conditioners.

Call: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Visit: enesco.co.uk

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Retailers’ Panel

Gifts Today Retailers’ Panel Key gift shop owners around the UK talk shows, selling strategies and their best summer buys.

KAREN GREIG Destined for Home, Edinburgh, Scotland Are you planning to visit Harrogate Home & Gift?

Yes, it’s huge, but well worth the effort. I stumbled across Makeup Erasers the last time and they have been a great selling point. This time I’d like to find something unusual for Men - customers have the same dilemma…what do you buy for a man?

Any special news about your business you’d like to share with us here?

My exciting news is that we’ve just celebrated our first year – it’s been an amazing year, welcoming a loyal group of customers and seeing our Destined for Home family of customers grow every day. Our window at present is full of our promotion bags which give

our loyal customers a discount as a special thank you.

Of all the gifts you sell in your shop, which one would you like to be given for your birthday – and why?

Oh that’s an easy one - I’d like the Paris Dressing Gown. Ever since I first clapped eyes on them at the trade show I was like ‘oh I’d love one of those’…and yet so far my wardrobe doesn’t have one. I think I’ll make my husband’s job easy this year and ask for one.

What techniques/strategies do you use to enhance the shopping experience in your shop?

Know your supplier – people buy from people. They want to know the story of the product, about the maker/designer/supplier.

There is no substitute for touching, feeling and smelling. While I try to put as much information on my website to assist online customers, I don’t really think it’s the same as popping into your local independent store, to experience genuine friendly customer service. Your independent stores will go that extra mile to keep you as a customer with flash promotions or bulk buy discounts – I don’t see High Street stores doing that.

TABI MARSH Heritage in Thornbury, Thornbury, Bristol Of all the gifts you sell in your shop, which one would you like to be given for your birthday – and why?

I have a major weakness for scarves, I can’t help myself! Any of the scarves from Powder that we have would be a welcome addition to my collection…although we’ve also just put in candles from Ester & Erik which are stunning, so that’s a close one at the moment.

What techniques/strategies do you use to enhance the shopping experience in your shop?

One of the key things is ensuring customers can touch the products, so getting them out of boxes and cellophane is key, otherwise they might as well be looking at it online.

They need to be able see the quality of the product - shopping should be a tactile experience. Making sure we are family-friendly

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has definitely increased repeat business. Our BRIO play table has transformed parents’ shopping experience. The kids will happily stand and play for a long time, enabling parents to have a proper look around the shop without feeling harassed or rushed.

JENNY MORRISON Top Drawer, St Andrews, Scotland Are you planning to visit Harrogate Home & Gift?

I hope to be able to pop down for a day to look at lastminute Christmas gift ranges. Home and Gift is always a lovely show to attend, but I can never stay for as long as I would like to, as I always have to get back up to open the shop as it’s right in the middle of tourist season for us. I always make a list beforehand of suppliers who I want to see and will have a good walk around to see if any new products catch my eye.

Any special news about your business you’d like to share with us here?

We were a Finalist at May’s Greats Gift Retailer Awards for ‘Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – Scotland’ category and although we didn’t win, we had a fantastic day at the Dartington Crystal table and it was lovely to catch up with some of our fabulous suppliers.

Of all the gifts you sell in your shop, which one would you like to be given for your birthday – and why?

Widdop and Co Prosecco Flute (‘Keep your days sparkling and your glass full of Prosecco’) because I love this range of flutes; a Crafty Clara handmade sign (‘One Prosecco, two Prosecco, three Prosecco floor’); a Stoneglow ‘Hip Hip Hooray’ candle from their new occasions range because it smells divine; and the Pale Pink stiletto enamel keyring from Bombay Duck for my car keys, because I’ve had my eye on this since we took delivery of the keyrings at the beginning of this year!

What techniques/strategies do you use to enhance the shopping experience in your shop?

The one thing at the moment which almost every customer comments on is the ‘beautiful smell in the shop!’ Each morning I turn over a couple of reeds in each diffuser we sell and it really attracts customers to those products! I try to display my candles and diffusers in different parts of the shop, so you get the different scents as you wander through the shop. The one thing you can’t do is smell these beautiful diffusers and candles online and being able to talk to your customers about what scents they are smelling, makes the shopping experience much more personal.

ALICE MAYOR We Built This City, London W1 Any special news about your business you’d like to share with us here?

ALISON CHAPMAN Wonder Stuff Ltd Treorchy, Rhondda, South Wales Any special news about your business you’d like to share with us here?

We have just celebrated our 17th year of trading at Wonder Stuff. We have become an inspiring and influential business, whilst also being a community advocate. It is important to look after the community you live and work in, which is something Wonder Stuff has done increasingly over the last few years, from becoming Marie Curie Fundraisers, to community champions to organising events in Treorchy town.

Of all the gifts you sell in your shop, which one would you like to be given for your birthday – and why?

Since we opened the shop in 2000, we have stocked East of India gifts. They have been a constant good seller for us because their products are so different and practical. I would love one of their memory boxes, especially one that reads ‘Leave a little sparkle wherever you go’. It is a lovely gift, with a lovely sentiment and would definitely suit the decor in my home.

We’ve just launched our Summer range on Carnaby Street and, as part of the collection, we’ve released our own exclusive product lines for the first time - we’re very excited to be doing so! We have developed an exclusive ‘Marmalade on Toast’ flavour milk chocolate bar in collaboration with Creighton’s Chocolaterie, which we’ve named ‘The Carnaby’. We’ve also launched an exclusive range in collaboration with statement jewellery designer Lou Taylor - featuring necklaces and brooches celebrating London’s style icon greats; Princess Diana, Twiggy, David Bowie and Isabella Blow.

Of all the gifts you sell in your shop, which one would you like to be given for your birthday – and why?

I absolutely love the Wonderground coasters and place mats by Loris and Livia that we stock inspired by the colourful, patterned flooring found across the London Underground network. They’re a guaranteed talking point and perfect for decorating a birthday dinner party table with.

What techniques/strategies do you use to enhance the shopping experience in your shop?

At WBTC we pride ourselves on offering more than just a transaction! We regularly invite the artists, designers and makers whose goods we stock, to host creative live experiences for our customers.

These have included: painting of live art murals in store, foil-blocking personalisation of leather stationery goods, DIY perspex jewellery-making and much more. We also host ticketed events at the store outside of our opening hours - giving further opportunity for our community of artists and makers to meet and get creative with our customers (and vice versa!).

What techniques/strategies do you use to enhance the shopping experience in your shop?

I think it is so important to ensure customers feel welcome when entering the shop and be at ease whilst they are looking around. We always play music like Glenn Miller and Doris Day as I feel music plays an important part of the shop as it puts people at ease and we always hear them singing along to the songs while they are looking around, which I love.

I think we can offer friendly and helpful service to our customers that online retailers can’t. Again, we offer a calm and pleasant environment for our customers with oneto-one help if they need it. We also have a VIP Customer Loyalty Card scheme offering in-store promotions and discounts. We often organise gift evenings, inviting our VIP customers along, with special deals and free refreshments in our little tearoom. Again this is something an online retailer can’t offer.

JOIN OUR RETAILERS’ PANEL! Fancy having your say about the gift industry? Want to share news about your business? Just drop editor Sally Norton an email at sally@lemapublishing.co.uk. Look forward to hearing from you! gifts today 113

Exhibition Preview

Summer in the city Pack your bags for NY NOW Summer 2017 market for gifts, accessories, home and more.

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ith attendee registration for the show open, retailers and buyers are encouraged to sign up to ensure they have a front row seat to the latest design trends.

Attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. NY NOW features three comprehensive collections – Home, Lifestyle and Handmade – that encompass tens of thousands of products in hundreds of product categories.

Leading exhibitors – both large-scale and boutique – will showcase their newest products and set the stage for an exciting holiday season and beyond. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate in a cuttingedge lineup of seminars, events, and more – all under one roof and only available in New York City.

NY NOW will continue its tradition of featuring a staggered opening.

The Handmade Global Design section of the Handmade Collection will open on Saturday, August 19 and close on Tuesday, August 22.

The Home and Lifestyle Collections, as well as Artisan Resource will open on Sunday, August 20 and close on Wednesday, August 23.

The popular Handmade Designer Maker section will move to Level 3 of the convention center for the first time, and as a result, it will follow the same schedule as the other sections on that level, opening Sunday, August 20 and closing Wednesday, August 23.

‘There’s no better place to be in August than NY NOW. With thousands of established and emerging brands to explore, NY NOW buyers are sure to find the perfect products to stock their shelves for the holiday season,’ said Randi Mohr, Vice President and NY NOW Director. ‘This summer’s market is on track to be one of our most exciting yet and we recommend that buyers looking to attend register today to make the most of their market experience.’

Thousands of Products on Display NY NOW is always looking to spotlight the latest industry trends and help ensure that everyone finds exactly what they are looking for. This year, more than 2,400 premier brands – established and emerging alike – are expected to showcase tens of thousands of on-trend products across hundreds of categories. Located all under one roof, NY NOW will provide attendees with the opportunity to browse an endless mecca of innovations from home décor and furnishings, tabletop and housewares, gifts, stationery, and textiles, as well as personal care and accessories for men, 114 gifts today

women and children, and more.

Seminars & Events For anyone looking to expand their knowledge while at the Market, NY NOW invites them to participate in this year’s seminar series. Designed to help attendees advance their career or business, NY NOW offers a jampacked agenda featuring dozens of sessions that provide new insights on the industry and invigorate attendees to succeed. A full range of educational programming will be led by industry experts including representatives from industry associations, leading trade and consumer publications and more.

Only in NY NY NOW will again deliver a number of special ‘Only in New York’ activities and promotions that will help attendees take advantage of all that this great city has to offer. This year, the popular A Night On Broadway outing takes place on Tuesday, August 22 and will feature Come From Away, the breathtaking new musical that played record-breaking engagements in La Jolla, Seattle, Washington D.C., and Toronto.

Register Today!

Qualified members of the trade may register and upload their credentials online for free until August 2 2017. After that, members of the trade may still

register for free online through August 18, however required credentials must be presented on-site to complete the registration process.

Fact File

19 – 23 August New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

Exhibition Preview

Get 2018 off to a flying start Harrogate Christmas & Gift is one of the fastest growing trade shows for festive goods and year-round gifts, attracting over 5,000 independent gift retailers, garden centre and department store buyers; also, buyers from visitor attraction outlets such as theme parks and museums to heritage centres and cathedral shops.

T

he show, which takes place in Harrogate every January, exceeded all expectations last year with two additional halls opening to accommodate exhibitor demand and an increase in visitor numbers for the sixth year running.

Simon Anslow, show organiser, said: ‘We are delighted that Harrogate Christmas & Gift continues to gain momentum. Since 2010 the show has been attracting a diverse array of new exhibitors with home and gift ranges as well as products to cater for diary events the entire year round.

‘Consequently, we have seen an average of five to eight per cent growth in visitor numbers year on year and once again we welcomed new buyers visiting for the first time. Feedback from both exhibitors and visitors has been extremely positive and we can honestly say that the show is now firmly on the map for UK retailers and buyers in festive, gift and visitor attraction sectors.’

Lindsey Brown of Thorntons attended Christmas & Gift for the first time in

2017 and said: ‘I thought it was a great show and the diversity and quality of exhibitors fantastic. I’ll definitely be visiting again.’

Harrogate Christmas & Gift 2018 takes place from 14 to 17 January and with Halls A, B, C, D, M and H of the Harrogate International Centre already fully booked and space available in Hall Q and the King’s Suite, companies wishing to participate are advised to reserve their space as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

harrogatefair.com

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Exhibition Preview

The design-led show returns with an A/W edit across the worlds of gift, fashion, craft and home. And this edition launches Fashion Spy.

Top Drawer returns in September T

he adventure in design returns as Top Drawer autumn/winter 17 offers creative retailers an edit of the finest new products across gifts, home, fashion, food and craft.

Top Drawer A/W17 unveils an inspiring and carefully selected edit of the most original, beautifully designed products across gift, wellbeing, children’s, and greetings & stationery.

Exhibiting brands include: True Grace, Nnuku, Rice, Sunnylife, Katie Leamon, Cubic, S-C Brands, Apothecary & Barbershop Supply Co, Castelbel, as well as new names: Aden + Anais, Wildfire Teepees, Doiy, Siabann, Grey + Lily, Bespoke Letterpress, PABUKU, Isla Apothecary and Coco Four. A final key element of note is the return of the dedicated product trails, guiding visitors through the halls to discover specific categories including: UK Debut, Product GB, Men Only and Eco. In addition to gifts, this season’s show has the following highlights:

Fashion Forward The Fashion floor is the style destination of choice for buyers looking to update their offering for the coming season. This edition sees the launch of a new area, Fashion Spy, showcasing premium and innovative international jewellery and accessory designers.

PaperFest The creative festival offers inspiring talks from leading industry experts, while the accompanying PaperAwards celebrate the creativity and innovation of talented exhibitors within the 116 gifts today

greetings & stationery area.

Foodie Heaven An exciting addition to the line up sees the Food Emporium making its September debut, adding a delicious selection of the finest ‘giftable’ food products from the best producers and artisans.

Tantalise those tastebuds by paying a visit to Teapigs, Avlaki and Brooklyn Brew Shop.

New Kids On The Block Spotted brings the strongest edit of brand new talent to date, showcasing totally fresh designs from up-and-coming designers across all sectors of the show. Offering a thrilling introduction to today’s most innovative, market-ready new products and designs, hot names to look out for include Ali Joe Design, Danny Lee Design, Leigh Bagley, Delicate Owl and Lara Quin.

Getting Crafty Expect the unexpected within Craft, and explore an inspiring and expertlycurated selection of one-off pieces across ceramic & glass, fashion & textiles and mixed media from over 150 hand-picked international makers.

Home Is Where the Heart Is Home is at the heart of the show and plays host to an expertly curated mix of directional brands, from Britain’s finest to global players, offering buyers an exceptional choice of inspirational products across interior accessories,

kitchen & dining, furniture & lighting and outdoor living.

10-12 September 2017 London Olympia. topdrawer.co.uk.

W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S N E X T I S N O W

AUG 19-23 REGISTER NOW AT NYNOW.COM

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J AV I T S C E N T E R , N E W YO R K C I T Y

EBONY NECKLACE AND GOLD RESIN BY GERDA AND NIKOLAI MONIES

22/06/2017 09:20

Exhibition Preview

Autumn Fair 2017

Head to Birmingham in September to discover what consumers will be looking for next year.

On Monday 4 September, leading trend forecaster WGSN’s Gemma Riberti will be revealing the key gift & home trends for 2018 and offering her top tips on getting the most out of your Christmas orders.

Learn how to get the best out of your retail business with expert insight and top tips from the likes of Made.com, Pinterest, eBay and Google.

Learn how to engage your customers online to maximize your Christmas sales.

From July, you’ll also be able to book one-to-one sessions with leading industry experts and take part in small focused workshops featuring Martin Holland (winner of BBC’s Great Interior Design Challenge) and renowned Visual Merchandiser Debbie Flowerday.

Autumn fair runs from 3-6 September at NEC, Birmingham.

Visit: autumnfair.com

118 gifts today

Entries open for Farm Shop & Deli Awards 2018 In 2018 Farm Shop & Deli Awards will enter their 5th year in recognising and celebrating the very best standards in the UK’s independent, specialist retail market. With an expert panel of judges joining Nigel Barden Chair of Judges, the prestigious Awards will celebrate the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement from entrants from across the UK and Northern Ireland.

These Awards really are a great way for retailers and their customers and community to get involved together.

The 2018 Awards are open for online entries now until 30 September 2017, with the finalist announcement in early March 2018. Category, Regional and overall Retailer of the Year winners will be revealed live on stage by Nigel himself, at the Farm Shop & Deli Show on Monday 16 April 2018.

The 2017 Awards received over 3,400 online votes during the consumer voting stage, and the final in April 2017 was attended by more than 120 visitors supporting the 55 category and regional finalists. Keelham Farm Shop Ltd cleaned up at the ceremony, proudly taking home a hat-trick of awards: Farm Shop Large Retailer of the Year, sponsored

by Lakeland Computers Ltd, their regional award (North East) and the coveted Farm Shop & Deli Retailer of the Year Award for 2017.

‘I feel amazing and really proud to have won the awards. We decided to enter, as the awards are prestigious, recognised and fantastic for the team to be rewarded in such a way,’ said Victoria Robertshaw, co-owner of Keelham Farm Shop and overall Farm Shop & Deli Retailer of the Year 2017.

‘In the build-up to the final we’ve had great PR in both local publications and food magazines which is great for businesses.’

Visit: farmshopanddelishow.co.uk

10—12 September 2017 Olympia, London

A/W 17 EDITION

ADVENTURES IN

GIFT

Explore the unique worlds of Top Drawer, expertly curated to inspire your buying.

With over 1,500 design-led brands, it’s the only destination for creative retailers to source irresistible new products.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE Register now at topdrawer.co.uk/giftstoday

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29/06/2017 30/06/2017 16:28 09:23

Tendence Review

It’s a gift!

Sally Norton spent a fascinating weekend at Tendence in Frankfurt, and came back full of ideas and inspiration. Here are ten things that caught her eye…

3.

CHRISTMAS The new date of the show – 24-27 June - meant that Christmas orders could be taken in time for Christmas 2017. ‘For many buyers, the previous date of late August was too late,’ says Thomas Grothkopp, Director General of Home & Office Trade Association.

1.

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PRETTY FLAMINGOS While there are still cacti, pineapples and gnomes aplenty, the big trend has to be flamingos! I spotted them everywhere I went around the show.

DELICIOUS FOOD

There was so much giftable food to explore, offering everything from chocolate to olive oil to flavoured sugars. Beautifully packaged salt, in tubs, tubes and even in huge pink slabs was definitely a trend.

2.

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BRITISH COMPANIES It was great to bump into some British companies who were exhibiting, including Enesco, Rex London and Jellycat Toy Company.

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OUTDOOR LIVING This new segment of the show was really beautiful and seemed to be a hit with all who visited it. Aiming to demonstrate how life can be lived outside with atmosphere and style, the star of the show for me was this beautiful metal horse at the entrance.

MODERN HANDICRAFTS

6.

I particularly loved the display of goods created by artisans in the Modern Crafts area in Hall 9.0. It proved a perfect place for buyers looking for something outside the mainstream. One display that really caught my eye was this wall of Blue Sunday plates by Anna Badur; the traditional cobalt blue underglaze is applied in a truly playful way w wa ay, m ay eaning ean ing ng th ng hatt every eve eryy p pie ie ece ce iss d dif ifferent iffer fer erent nt – and un uniqu niq iqu qu q ue. e. way, meaning that piece different unique.

FLOWERS, FLOWERS EVERYWHERE With the 4th International Floristry Congress taking place as part of Tendence, I saw so many beautiful floral displays both inside and out. Visitors were clearly taking inspiration from the floristry stands for shop window and in-store design ideas. ‘It’s easy for visitors to put together a selection of appropriate items that fit with this or that colour combination or a particular trend,’ said Felicitas Lehner, founder of the Floristry Congress and Chief Executive of Lehner Wolle.

LOOKING UP….AND LOOKING DOWN The show really is a visual feast and many exhibitors really went to town on the design of their stands. Looking up, I saw everything from lanterns to pompoms, cacti in jars to inflatable toys. Looking down, I was surprised to see…dogs. Lots of visitors brought their pooches with them – though I don’t think my pup is nearly well-behaved enough to make it through the doors!

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A CHANCE TO EXPLORE THE CITY

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Many visitors I chatted to were planning to combine their trip with a day or two sightseeing in the city – perhaps because admission tickets include free local transport through the public transport network.

A SNEAK PEEK AT S/S18.

Combined with the Christmas offering, the show really did offer ‘two seasons, one date’ approach, and I spotted some fantastic S/S18 products in all the halls. gifts today 121

Julie Dodsworth

Do it your way!

One of the hardest disciplines in business is to keep focussed on your plan and motivations - it seems to come in fits and bursts. If only we all had the secret of finding our own inner confidence just when we need it - but self-employment can be a very strange animal!

M

Julie Dodsworth is an artisan British designer who works from her narrowboat Calamity Jane. At the age of 50 Julie started her ‘third age business’ - leaping into the unknown to follow her heart. From a tiny beginning Julie has launched an international-selling home and gift business working with the very best of British manufacturers. Gift today have invited her to share with us her experience, her passion for the industry and some of the great advice she feels she has been given along the way.

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any, many years ago I was given some incredible advice from a good friend who was in business in my home town of York. He told me never (as much is humanly possible) look at or research your competitor. Don’t go on their websites, don’t peek at what they do, don’t try and obtain their brochures. Just don’t do it.

I thought this strange advice at the time - after all, isn’t standard business advice to benchmark and keep an eye on what others are doing? But hey, do you know I thought, I’ll try it! I even took the new mantra a step further and asked my colleagues in our plant and flower display business to embrace our new ethos and not to mention our competitors by name. Curiously they agreed and we diarised a catch up on the subject matter a few weeks hence. What followed was the eighth wonder of our business world.

Our feedback and shared experience all concluded we were happier in ourselves, more productive and felt generally more positive. We considered what the science behind our experiment was and decided it was because of the following: • We were no longer ‘advertising’ our competitors by talking about them.

• The copycat things they did didn’t matter anymore - after all if they couldn’t be original, they were already lost.

• Seeing something truly successful from others was deflating, and it was nice not to suffer that feeling!

• Seeing we did something better than our competitors didn’t actually teach us anything.

• Knowing we were not peeking

made us certain of our own originality.

• Those negative rivalry thoughts were not draining our soul and psyche anymore.

• There was more brain space for us!

“

I remind myself daily that everyone is at a different stage in their business

”

The sealer of our new policy came when a potential new client asked me about our national competitor in the midst of our meeting. I replied with: ‘well it wouldn’t do to discuss them after all I know so little about them.’ It felt so nice to not get sucked in and I knew this was a game changer for me.

We carried this maxim through 30

years in our display business and I adopted the same motto from day one of my homeware business.

I remind myself daily that everyone is at a different stage in their business. I may be on chapter 26 and so it’s no good my trying to compare myself with someone on their chapter 987. After all, you only ever see their edited highlights whereas your own movie is running in your head - blooper reel and all!

So whether this ‘Julie habit’ would work for you, only you would know.

But asking my lovely long-serving colleagues if we would go back and change our ways the answer was ‘never.’ The inner peace it seems to have brought us over these many, many years is, for us, a business value beyond measure.

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