Gifts Today July 2025

Gifts Today July 2025

Contents

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p 28

Regulars 10 News 68 Shop Talk: Independent retailers reveal their Home & Gift experiences and expectations, and share some surprise finds and tips on must-visit stands, to help your maximise your visit to the show 72 Trade Talk Home & Gift Special: A selection of key exhibitors reveal details of products they are planning to launch and showcase at the Harrogate event 80 Trade Talk: As we hit the second half, key suppliers tell us how business is going for them, from unexpected hits to hot trends, and what the vibe is like among retailers

Columnists

Gifts Today team

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Advertisement Manager

Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

20 Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting 30 Bryony Taylor-Edwards, co-founder of Think BIG 71 Sarah Halsall, owner of Hand Picked by Henrietta in the Cheshire town of Poynton 83 Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association)

Cover Story 28 When Home & Gift opens its doors, all eyes will be on the new season - and Langs is ready to steal the spotlight with a launch that’s “nothing short of spectacular,” says director of design and buying Jane Bourne

Editor

Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director

Fair Focus

Production Director

14 16 18 46

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

The Gift Fair Preview Autumn Fair Preview Harrogate Christmas & Gift Preview Home & Gift Preview

Retailer Focus

Lema Publishing Ltd

Unit 1 Broomstick Industrial Estate High street Edlesborough Buckinghamshire LU6 2JA Telephone: 01442 289930

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www.giftstoday.media

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Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers, nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by contributors and writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

ContentsJuly.indd 1

26 Rebekah Mudie, owner/director of Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts in the North Cardiff suburb of Llanishen 32 Nicola Hibon Jackson, founder of The Voewood in the Blackheath Royal Standard area of South East London 44 Sally Davies, owner of Flippin’ eck in the West Yorkshire town of Guiseley 78 Richard Skelton, director of six-strong gift shop chain Utility in the North West

Product Focus 22 New Products 36 Plush 76 Socks

Supplier Focus 31 33 34 35

Wild Things Museums & Galleries Puckator Candlelight

04/07/2025 13:45

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Message from the Editor

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www.giftstoday.media LinkedIn: @giftstoday Twitter: @giftstodaymag Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

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elcome to Gifts Today’s Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival preview issue. This four-day exhibition returns to the picturesque Yorkshire spa town of Harrogate on July 20 and, speaking with retailers and suppliers for this issue, it’s clear there’s deep affection for this much-anticipated event, which is a highlight of the industry’s calendar.

Show director David Westbrooke tells us that Home & Gift 2025 is set to be “another bumper year, with an enlarged footprint, as well as more product launches, more features, and more networking opportunities - and, of course, this is all against the backdrop of our 65th birthday!”

As he rightly says, this is a huge milestone, and he reveals that it will be “celebrated in true Home & Gift style, with even more features, more inspiration, and more ways to connect than ever before”.

The whole show will be themed as a Summer Soirée, with curated experiences designed to reflect the festival’s rich heritage and vibrant personality. From celebratory branding and creative direction through to special Trend Installations and an expanded Indigo Lounge, everything’s been designed to mark the occasion. He adds: “I can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be a truly unforgettable edition.”

From the diverse exhibitor mix of household names to emerging players, to the unique environment and setting, indies interviewed in our Shop Talk section all agree that Home & Gift is well worth a visit.

Their comments range from “I love the relaxed vibe and setting - the venue feels more like a summer escape than a trade show!” to “it’s a great few days away in a beautiful location, where I can visit many of my suppliers and see their amazing products - which is much better when placing orders. We always manage to find new suppliers which is so important; we are based in a small village and really need to keep our stock fresh and interesting”.

We also caught up with several exhibitors for our Trade Talk Home & Gift Special section, who share these retailers’ enthusiasm. In the words of Langs joint managing director Keith Edmondson: “Home & Gift continues to be a major draw for customers, and the usually good weather adds to the relaxed and positive atmosphere.

“We’re using the show as the perfect launchpad for our exciting Spring 2026 range… of all the collections that Langs introduces, Spring is truly the jewel in the crown - both in terms of volume and the showstopping artwork.”

If Keith’s comment has piqued your interest, check out our Cover Story, which showcases that very range.

Turn to page 28 to read all about the new collection, which Langs director of design and buying Jane Bourne describes as brimming with colour, joyful design and artistic flair.

Our Home & Gift Preview is packed with a plethora of other fresh finds, from exhibitors both large and small. And there are plenty of other features to spark your imagination. We know you love reading about the experiences of fellow retailers, so we’re pleased to say we’ve shone the spotlight on some very different independent businesses.

We’ve chatted to The Voewood in Blackheath (winner of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - London, South, South East & East Anglia category of The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025); Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts in the North Cardiff suburb of Llanishen (winner of the Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer - Wales category of The Retas 2025); Utility in the North West (winner of the Best Greeting Card Small Multiple of The Retas 2025), which is celebrating its 26th anniversary and is set to open its seventh branch next month; and finally, relative newcomer Flippin’ eck in the West Yorkshire town of Guiseley, which opened in 2021 and describes itself as a little gift shop… with big ideas.

As always, our columnists have shared their words of wisdom on business matters. Sara Allbright of Retail100 Consulting suggests innovative ways to increase basket spend, Bryony Taylor-Edwards discusses effective bricks-and-clicks strategies, Sarah Halsall of Hand Picked by Henrietta shares some clever time management tactics, and Andrew Goodacre of Bira gives a reality check on employment rights and risks.

So why not relax with a glass of wine or beer, and enjoy leafing through this issue in the sunshine (long may it last!). Our Home & Gift Preview starts on page 46, so prepare to be inspired!

p 40

p 43

Clare Turner, Editor clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

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

LeaderJuly.indd 1

03/07/2025 22:07

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30

News Bira launches Love Cereria Mollá 1899 Your High Street Awards strengthens UK sales team Retailers are being encouraged to put themselves forward for the first-ever Love Your High Street Awards, designed to celebrate small businesses that support their local communities across the UK. The nationwide competition, launched

by Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), aims to recognise independent retailers who go above and beyond.

Communities across Britain can nominate their favourite independent shops via www.bira.co.uk, with nominations closing on July 20.

A panel from Bira will then review all entries to select standout finalists, before public voting opens on August 4 across social media platforms, with supporters invited to use #LoveYourHighStreet #ShopLocal #HighStreetHeroes.

The winner will be determined by public vote, with the shop receiving the most votes crowned as the inaugural Love Your High Street Awards champion.

Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre said: “Independent shops are the beating heart of our communities, and it’s time we celebrated the incredible work they do every single day. These awards will shine a spotlight on the retailers who go the extra mile for their customers and communities, often in the face of significant challenges.”

Renowned for its exquisite, handcrafted candles and more than 125 years of artisanal heritage, Spanish luxury brand Cereria Mollá 1899 is strengthening its presence in the UK with a key appointment.

Denise Hall joins the commercial team as UK sales manager. An accomplished sales professional with extensive experience in premium retail and the home fragrance sector, Denise brings deep knowledge of the UK market and a strong network of retail relationships. Her role will focus on driving commercial growth, expanding retail distribution, and supporting brand elevation across the region.

Santiago Mollá, CEO of Cereria Mollá 1899, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Denise to the Cereria Mollá family. Her passion for the category and her understanding of the UK retail landscape makes her the perfect addition to the team to drive growth in this key market.”

Exciting times for

Stoneglow Exclusively Show

‘exceeds expectations’ Held at the Business Design Centre in London last month, The Exclusively Show delivered a very well-received event, setting the bar high for next year’s show.

With exhibitor space for 2025 selling out earlier than ever before - the show space was fully booked by January - and a rise in both domestic and international visitor attendance, this year’s exhibition has confirmed its status as a go-to trade fair for the home and kitchen sectors.

More than 140 exhibitors and 300 brands filled the venue, with exciting new product development (NPD), expert trend forecasting, and creative brand engagement driving traffic across both days. A refreshed second-day programme ensured strong footfall throughout the event, bolstered by a high-energy press event and popular networking opportunities.

Exclusively 2026 will take place on June 9 and June 10 2026. To find out more, visit www.exclusivelyshows.co.uk.

2025 has been a year full of exciting news so far for home fragrance supplier Stoneglow.

The company said: “In February we were thrilled to win The Summer House Edit category of Spring Fair’s ‘75 Years of Excellence Awards’ for our beautiful Walled Garden Collection.

“This range also received a highly commended accolade in the Made in the UK category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025 in May. “We’ve also had some wonderful personal news within the team. Our commercial director Louise Dooley married our IT manager Lee Gattrell in April. Additionally, our sales director Curtis Simmons is eagerly anticipating the arrival of his second child, who might even make an appearance while he is at Home & Gift!

“It’s a truly exciting time for Stoneglow, filled with professional achievements and personal happiness among our team members.”

10 Gifts Today

NewsJuly.indd 1

03/07/2025 17:53

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News

Marian Byrne

L-R: Jennifer Long, Vice Chair of Worcestershire Growth Hub; Sarah Watmore, owner of Miss Milly; host Lewis Fuller

Sarah Smart

Two new faces Miss Milly wins Micro Business of the Year at Enesco Global giftware company Enesco is delighted to welcome two new area sales managers to its UK sales team. Marian Byrne is responsible for Scotland and the North East of England, while Sarah Smart is managing the South West of England and Wales.

Both Marian and Sarah bring a wealth of knowledge to Enesco. They each have more than 20 years of experience as sales representatives in the gift trade and other sectors.

The extensive portfolio of leading brands from Enesco promises a very exciting and busy future for them, as they share their enthusiasm and love of great product with their new colleagues from Enesco. You can contact Marian on 07711094664 and Sarah on 07885767787.

Jewellery and fashion accessories supplier Miss Milly has scooped the gong for Micro Business of the Year at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards 2025.

The judging summary lauded Miss Milly’s remarkable resilience during the Covid pandemic, followed by sustained growth underpinned with a clear business model and a successful marketing strategy. Owner Sarah Watmore said: “I’m over the moon that our consistency, passion, evolution and success has been formally recognised.”

Meet the boy Opticaid collabs behind Bat Cat… with Brilliantly Brave

Opticaid is teaming up with greeting card brand Brilliantly Brave for a new RFID wallet collection: Benevolent Blooms.

Launching at Home & Gift on the Remaldi/Opticaid stand (A-B16), the range features florals that span ditsy to big and blousy, with a vintage-meets-modern aesthetic pulled straight from Brilliantly Brave’s bestselling card range. The wallets are made from recycled materials and come packaged in a Kraft CDU unit that dials up the retro styling.

This is Opticaid’s latest designled collection, and Brilliantly Brave’s second licensing launch.

It’s feel-good gifting that’s doing good too: a portion of proceeds supports mental health projects in communities across Scotland.

Ten-year-old Spencer Codling from Skelton in North Yorkshire, who is bravely facing acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), is the winner of the Cancer Support UK and Warmies national Create your Dream Bestie competition.

Children with cancer were invited to draw and enter a picture of their dream best friend, for the chance to see their design brought to life as a cuddly toy made by Warmies.

Spencer’s cute teddy with superhero qualities - Bat Cat - emerged as a clear winner through a public vote from a shortlist of six entries.

Warmies managing director David Tweedale and Cancer Support UK CEO Mark Guymer visited Spencer at Great Ormond Street Hospital, while he was recovering from treatment, to present him with his prize: a soft toy version of Bat Cat, created by Warmies. Spencer also received a framed copy of his winner’s certificate, together with Warmies’ concept artwork for Bat Cat. David said: “Working with Cancer Support UK on this competition has meant a lot to us all.

Helping bring Spencer’s Bat Cat idea to life was a special project, and seeing his reaction when he received the toy is something I won’t ever forget. His family and the hospitals involved have been supportive throughout, and we’ll be offering a limited-edition Bat Cat to help raise money for Cancer Support UK, with all proceeds going directly to the charity.

Only 1,200 Bat Cat toys will be produced by Warmies, so to secure one of these coveted cuddlies, pre-order now for just £24.99 from https://warmies.co.uk/products/warmies®-batcat.

12 Gifts Today

NewsJuly.indd 2

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THE UK’S LEADING TRADE SHOW FOR PEAK SEASON BUYING A curated showcase of thoughtful gifts, keepsakes and lifestyle treasures at Autumn Fair 2025.

Scan to register

Preview

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THE GIFT FAIR

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The Gift Fair

returns this Autumn The Gift Fair aims to be a one-stop digital destination for inspiration and sourcing - without the stress of travel or time restrictions. Gifts Today finds out more about the second edition of this online gift trade show

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etailers across the UK will once again have the opportunity to discover the latest in Christmas gifting without ever leaving their stores, as The Gift Fair returns for its second edition this September.

Running from September 8 to October 24, this online trade show offers over six weeks of flexible, on-demand access to new products, seasonal collections, and emerging brands - all curated with retailers in mind.

Designed for independent gift shops, boutiques, department stores, and e-commerce platforms alike, The Gift Fair provides a fully interactive, digital alternative to traditional in-person trade events.

With no travel costs, no scheduling constraints, and no entry fees, the platform allows retailers to explore at their own pace, sourcing last-minute standout merchandise just in time for the busy holiday season.

What retailers can expect Unlike many virtual events, The Gift Fair offers a highly curated and immersive experience.

Buyers can explore digital booths showcasing exclusive ranges, product launches, and festive lines from both established and up-and-coming brands.

Interactive features allow users to: • Watch product demonstrations; • Discover new undiscovered brands that are not at traditional trade shows; • Chat and talk live with exhibitors; • Discover brand stories; • Get access to the latest catalogues and brochures; • Save favourite products and suppliers into your own personalised curated show.

Preview TheGiftFair.indd 1

Boxer Gifts

Gogo Olive

Call: 0208 781 1106 Email: info@xpofairs.com Visit: www.xpofairs.com When: September 8-October 24

Registration is intentionally frictionless. There is just a three-click sign-up, and the show is accessible 24/7 throughout the event period and completely free. While exhibitors will be 14 Gifts Today

available during specific hours for live interaction, browsing and sourcing can take place at any time.

To support retailers on the go, The Gift Fair is also launching a mobile app for iOS and Android, allowing participants to explore the show on their own terms, from any location.

For first-time visitors or those returning after the debut edition, the show organisers have made onboarding easier than ever.

Short introductory videos and platform tutorials are available at www.xpofairs.com, helping users navigate the show and make the most of its features.

Whether retailers are seeking bestselling holiday stock, unique artisanal goods, or insight into the latest consumer trends, The Gift Fair aims to be a one-stop digital destination for inspiration and sourcing - without the stress of travel or time restrictions.

The question is: why wouldn’t you visit? Mark your calendar (September 8 - October 24) and register today to get ready to discover your next bestseller.

Visit www.xpofairs.com to sign up and start exploring, or reach out to the team via info@xpofairs.com or 0208 781 1106.

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03/07/2025 13:18

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30/06/2025 08:10:03

Preview AUTUMN FAIR

Autumn Fair

appetiser From first-time exhibitors to trend-led pavilions and immersive networking spaces, Autumn Fair returns to Birmingham in September with its most enriched and energising edition yet

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ach year, Autumn Fair celebrates the Great British High Street by connecting 12,000 buyers with more than 800 British and international suppliers. Hosted at the NEC Birmingham from September 7 to September 10, it’s the perfect time to stock up on trendsetting gifts just in time for the festive season.

Carefully curated to help retailers explore and shop with ease, Autumn Fair spans destinations across gifting, fashion, lifestyle, and home. Discover Home, Living & Décor, The Summer House Edit, Gift, Beauty & Wellbeing, Kids, Toys & Play, Greetings, Party & Celebration, Everyday, and in Moda x Pure Clothing & Footwear, Fashion Accessories, and Jewellery & Watch.

This year’s show is already breaking records, with a significant percentage of new-to-show brands and exclusive exhibitors. Hundreds of sought-after brands will be on show including Bedeck, Candlelight, Bedeck, Ty UK, Gingko, Widdop & Co., Kikkerland, Sass & Belle, Bomb Cosmetics, Ryland, Peters & Small, Socktopus, Langs, Rex London, Lesser & Pavey, Joe Davies, Gift Republic, Bumblegum Stuff, Gentlemen’s Hardware, Five Dollar Shake, Baby Republic, Ohh Deer, Heroes Inc, Powell Craft, My Gifts Trade, Casa Verde, Hot Tomato, Hill Interiors, Trampoline, Inside Out, Nordic Style, Malini, The Otters Brook Collection, Bronte By Moon, Blooms by Samuel Baker, Present Time, Elle Sport, Lighthouse Clothing, Hedgeroe, Baby Bambino, Bill Skinner Studio, Nudie Jewellery and Big Metal London.

The popular New Business Pavilions offer a dedicated platform for first-time exhibitors and small businesses. Situated across the show’s Home, Gift & Fashion sectors, they’re a brilliant discovery zone for buyers on the hunt for something fresh and original.

Food gifting is booming, and Autumn Fair now has a whole new space to celebrate it.

‘Taste at Autumn Fair’ in Hall 5 is a new product pavilion to meet the industry’s growing demand for food and drink gifting, with live sampling, and gifting galore. Confirmed brands include Spice Kitchen, Cocoba Chocolate, Chococo, Popaball, The Chocolate Gift Company, TTK Confectionary, Sweets by Zoia Kulesh, and Stylish Whisky.

But Autumn Fair isn’t just about what you buy. It’s about a host of experiences to enhance your visit, from retail masterclasses to networking retreats. Retail Corner is a hub for trend talks, trend forecast presentations, and practical sessions. The mini stage will facilitate a myriad of sessions from merchandising masterclasses to Pitch Live competitions.

Buyers Retreat is an ambient oasis off the show floor exclusively for buyers to unwind and regroup. Buyers will also be able to take part in daily Retailer Social Workshops, providing a mix of creative ideas and problem-solving suggestions.

All buyers benefit from a buyer’s benefit package saving £30-plus per day which includes free parking, complimentary tea, coffee and water, and subsidised cloakrooms (£1 per item).

And look out for Autumn Fair’s new partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org: Retail Makeover Mission. This is an exciting new initiative championing independent retail innovation and resilience.

To benefit from exclusive offers including discounts off hotels and 20% off Avanti train travel, register now at www.autumnfair.com/visitorregistration. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the UK’s ultimate buying event at the heart of retail’s peak season.

What: Autumn Fair Where: NEC Birmingham When: September 7-10 Visit: www.autumnfair.com

16 Gifts Today

Preview AutumnFair.indd 1

03/07/2025 16:47

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Preview

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

Planning for

Christmas 2026 Harrogate Christmas & Gift is almost full - six months prior to the event!

Show organiser Simon Anslow shares an update on plans for the UK’s key festive trade buying destination

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ompanies specialising in Christmas products and giftware are already planning for the 2026 season with space almost full at Harrogate Christmas & Gift, which takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre in North Yorkshire from January 11 to January 14.

Show organiser Simon Anslow explains: “We have a list of new companies which expressed an interest in exhibiting next year. However, we always give previous exhibitors the first option to rebook, and most of them have taken up this offer. Halls A, B, C and M are full, and we are now juggling to find space in the remaining halls for potential new exhibitors.”

Among those companies which have confirmed significant-sized stands are Giftware Trading with its collection of Christmas decorations, garlands and wreaths and Halloween products; Shatchi, a leading importer and supplier of Christmas products from artificial trees, fibre optics, room décor, and floral, to gifts and decorations; Partisan Products with a reputation for design and service in the gift packaging market; Ascalon Design with an extensive range of festive decorations; Sincere UK with Christmas display box picks and floral decorations; Norfolk Leisure with its BOSK brand of beautifully designed, high-quality artificial trees and decorations; RSW International with a variety of Christmas crackers, accessories and table top decorations; and Calipso Roast, a distributor in the floral packaging industry, which supplies wholesalers, garden centres and large retailers - to name just a few.

Those visitors familiar with the show layout will be interested to see a few changes in 2026. Long-standing exhibitor Premier Decorations returns, plus Kaemingk and Gisela Graham have both reserved even larger stands.

And, looking for a change of scene, Puleo Asia has moved to a new location at the front of Hall M, Widdop & Co. has taken a new position in the Queens Suite foyer area, and Joe Davies and Portland Living have both taken more space and moved to a new location in Hall C. Sadly, after exhibiting for around 30 years, Konstsmide will not be returning to Harrogate in 2026.

Simon continues: “The show website has just been updated and we will be uploading the 2026 exhibitor list as soon as we have finalised all of the stand bookings we have so far. Companies wishing to exhibit, and those planning to visit, can book and register online at www.harrogatefair.com and find out pertinent information about the show.”

What: Harrogate Christmas & Gift 2026 Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate, North Yorkshire When: January 11–14 2026 Email: simon@harrogatefair.com Visit: www.harrogatefair.com 18 Gifts Today

Preview HarrogateC&G.indd 1

03/07/2025 16:51

OPINION

Every day is a birthday Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting, considers some clever ways to maximise sales of gifts and cards all-year-round - and increase basket spend

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s we navigate the no-man’s land that lies between the end of the spring seasonal events and the wait for the start of winter seasonal activity, it’s often easy to think that there is no drive to sales. I’ve always, though, stood by the mantra that birthdays happen 365 days a year, so there is always someone in need of a gift or a greeting card.

Unlike gifting at Mother’s Day or Christmas for instance, we can often neglect how we communicate birthday gifts to customers.

Although many retailers have online navigation for the likes of ‘gifts for her’ or ‘gifts for garden lovers’, being explicit about gifts for birthdays is much less common. But in my view it represents a big opportunity for retailers and brands.

Quite often, birthdays can catch people off-guard - as they may have forgotten the date or it creeps up on them. So purchasing can easily become something they need to deal with quickly, and with less thought and planning. Therefore, making it obvious on gifts or greeting cards that you would recommend, easily converts into sales.

When it comes to products, the simplest way that brands do this is to offer giftable packaging solutions that say ‘happy birthday’ on them - most commonly on product types like chocolate or candles. This immediately indicates to the purchaser that

this is a gift which they can give happily for a birthday.

In my opinion, that can feel quite cold and unimaginative.

So, as a retailer, you could create a more imaginative version by wrapping products in advance and adding a ‘happy birthday’ tag. This

brought together in a gift box or basket, can suddenly look far more compelling than when they are sat separately on the shelves. And this has the added advantage that you have also increased the average order value of your customers’ purchases in an instant.

“You can create flexible solutions to highlight products as birthday gifts” can be a great solution to increase sales of bestselling products, or a way to highlight and move on slow-selling stock.

Bundling products together can also create helpful solutions, especially for those making a lastminute or distress purchase for a birthday. Thoughtful products,

This can also work with greeting cards. Imagine a busy parent navigating all their child’s party invites - a bundle of birthday cards might save them time and stress, while again allowing you to potentially include and move on slower selling products.

Other ways of making products

appropriate for birthdays include sentiment-driven gifts that feature the month of the year, a star sign, or a monogram. These can work well but are trickier to manage from a stock point of view, and more planning is needed to get the best out of a range like this. But don’t be afraid, because they can be a great addition to your offer.

Plus, you can create flexible solutions to highlight products as birthday gifts - with sleeves that simply go over the product’s box but can be removed when not relevant, or changed when other events like Christmas come into play.

In essence, don’t worry about being blatant in telling your customers about the products that they should buy for a birthday; many will appreciate the help and efficiency that this adds to their shopping mission.

Sara Allbright is a director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting, which is a consultancy firm with 100 years of retail experience that helps retailers and brands grow.

Prior to Retail100 Consulting, Sara worked in buying roles at John Lewis for 18 years, predominantly for home and seasonal categories, including eight years leading gift and home fragrance buying.

She specialised in brand relationships and growing small emerging brands into market leaders. Sara is also experienced in own-label sourcing across multiple categories and countries.

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk L-R: Sara Allbright, Anna Berry, Neil Amer and Visit: www.retail100consulting.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting Elaine Hooper

20 Gifts Today

Ret100.indd 1

03/07/2025 16:53

Sip in style with our branded china mug collection.

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New products

Global flora Fresh arrivals

Alexander Thurlow

Alexander Thurlow has been working closely with a well-known botanical garden to produce a new range of intricate flower pieces. The designs were inspired by the artwork of Victorian artist Marianne North, who travelled the world depicting global flora with her unique drawings. New flowers include Double Lily and Jasmin Mango brooches and you will also love the quirkiness of the Water Lily.

In addition, the company has just launched its new branded box packaging to complement its ever-increasing range of beautiful flower jewellery, which is now available to buy via its website.

Alexander Thurlow won’t be showing at Home & Gift this year, but all products are available on its web shop. Or do give the team a call and they will be more than happy to help.

Call: 020 8766 6466 Email: sales@alexanderthurlow.com Visit: www.alexanderthurlow.com/trade

Scent appeal

Lesser & Pavey

New items have joined Lesser & Pavey’s evergrowing Desire Aroma fragrance ranges. Aroma lamps are a new introduction, featuring auras of colours to fill the home including imagery of Highland cows, and the magical and dazzling impression of the Northern Lights.

And Lesser & Pavey has taken the influence of contemporary interiors with a new range of Desire Aroma diffusers, releasing a blend of fragrances into the home. The range includes the familiar fragrances of Desire - Oud & Bergamot, Amber & Sandalwood, and Pomegranate Noir - and also features many new fragrances such as Azure, Suave, Aventi, Coco, Liberty and Rouge.

These contemporary stylish bottles are embellished with a gold Desire Aroma logo badge, and come with environmentally-friendly reeds. Each one is presented in attractive packaging showing the item inside, the colouring, the style of glass container and reeds.

Finally, there are additions to Lesser & Pavey’s tabletop ranges for this Christmas, featuring traditional festive wildlife. Using new designs from MacNeil, they cover scenes of Robin Redbreast in a winter setting featured on fine china mugs, a jug, tea for one, matching coasters, placemats and trays.

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

Stoneglow

For A/W, Stonelow is introducing three autumnal fragrances to its Modern Classic range and has added wax melt bars, with a selection of 15 fragrances.

The brand has a new Christmas look featuring rich jewel tones and elegant gold accents. New products include crackers filled with wax melts, decorative hanging ceramic stars, and packs of tealights and mini sprays.

The Luna collection welcomes a new fragrance presented in Pantone’s colour of the year, Mocha Mousse: a warm, rich brown. This addition offers a Black Pepper & Juniper fragrance. Finally, the Elements collection now includes a ceramic diffuser bottle. This allows customers to create their personalised diffusers by selecting their preferred ceramic bottle colour, choosing their favourite Stoneglow diffuser refill, and adding reeds - making it a truly unique gift.

Call: 0208 59598878 Email: trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk Visit: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk 22 Gifts Today

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New products

New releases Heartfelt cards Fox Under The Moon

New from Fox Under The Moon is a collection of 16 greeting cards for Summer 2025, featuring artwork and words adapted from Stacey McNeill’s upcoming hardback gift book “Fox Under The Moon – Seasons of Comfort and Hope” (Quercus, Hachette UK).

Each card carries a tender message, paired with soft, whimsical illustrations of Fox, Moon, and their friends journeying through the changing seasons of life. Whether it’s a gentle nudge to keep going, or a heartfelt note to someone going through grief, burnout or change, these cards are designed to be more than just beautiful, they’re meant to be felt.

Call: 07979 600 587 Email: info@foxunderthemoonart.com Visit: https://foxunderthemoonart.com/

Museums & Galleries

Museums & Galleries (M&G) previewed new home and giftware products at The Exclusively Show last month, which are all available for immediate pre-order for September delivery.

Following a licensing partnership on cards, gift packaging and stationery, M&G is thrilled to launch British designer Matthew Williamson’s work on bottles, PLA and bone china mugs, as well as kitchen textiles. The luxuriant and striking colourwork of Matthew’s ‘Peacock Ikat’ drew much admiration from visitors to the show. The design features on a collection of co-ordinating products including an insulated bottle, PLA mug, apron, oven glove, tea towel set and organic cotton napkin set.

And further to its launch in January, London designer Emily Burningham’s ‘Saxifrage’ design has been such a hit with buyers that M&G has released it on a bottle, PLA mug, bone china mug, co-ordinating kitchen textiles, and a coaster set. Plus, the resurgent Brambly Hedge character licence (a huge fan favourite) also now comes as an insulated bottle, PLA mug, apron, oven glove, and tea towel co-ordinating set.

Finally, M&G’s coaster sets have been flying off the shelves since they were launched in January, and the company launched six more new designs at The Exclusively Show. In addition to ‘Saxifrage’ by Emily Burningham, there are new designs by Angela Harding, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse (from the Tate), Walter Crane (from the V&A), and Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press.

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

Coos and bamboo Joe Davies

Sip in style Herdy

Herdy’s new range of ‘Hello’ travel flasks and bottles are the baarilliant way to sip sustainably in style. Bursting with personality and vibrant charm, these eco-conscious companions are made from premium materials and are 100% recyclable at end of life.

Lightweight and leakproof, these bottles tick all the boxes for today’s green-minded grazers.

Call: 01539 739202 Email: sales@herdy.co.uk Visit: www.herdy.co.uk

Celebrate the beauty of nature with the brand-new Equilibrium Bamboo Collection.

Featuring an array of bangles, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, each piece is crafted to reflect the natural texture and shape of bamboo.

Plated in real gold or silver, the collection exudes a warm, luxurious glow that enhances its botanical charm. Some pieces are delicately accented with gemstones, adding a subtle sparkle. Whether you’re drawn to simple sophistication or standout statement pieces, the Bamboo Collection offers something for every jewellery lover.

And say hello to Fluffy Highland Coos! These delightful figurines combine a soft, fuzzy coat with playful, characterful expressions - making them an instant hit on the shelf. The range includes a variety of sizes and poses, including the dangle-leg version, allowing for flexible merchandising across gifting zones, window displays, and till-point features. Whether perched on a ledge or grouped in a themed display, these lovable coos are the perfect pick-up gift.

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

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Seasonal vibes We Love Seasons

Bags of joy Miss Milly

Well known for colourful jewellery, Miss Milly began adding fashion accessories 10 years ago with the introduction of scarves. This spring, the brand launched a range of colourful, upcycled leather bags and purses, and this autumn it’s expanding the offering with a further 14 designs.

Brand-new for this season is a capsule collection of handcrafted velvet pouches and purses with intricate, beaded and sequin décor based on Miss Milly’s popular magnetic brooches. Featuring a fox, bee, dragonfly and owl, the pouches use seasonally coloured velvet backgrounds with detailing of the wildlife on the front.

They will be available in two sizes with high quality zips and finish.

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

We Love Seasons has a selection of new seasonal ranges, continuing its signature use of earthy, neutral tones. The latest collections feature light brown ceramic bunnies, soft-toned pumpkins, and new homeware décor - designed with a timeless, Nordic-inspired aesthetic.

The autumn range includes decorative pumpkins in warm, natural shades that blend beautifully with cosy, nature-inspired interiors. Meanwhile, the Easter 2026 collection introduces charming ceramic bunnies that evoke nostalgia and simplicity, ideal for building family traditions. A range of new Easter eggs - perfect for decorating an Easter tree - adds a playful yet elegant touch to springtime displays.

With a focus on thoughtful design, enduring materials and a soft, seasonal palette, We Love Seasons offers a refreshing alternative to trend-driven décor.

Call: 07895840887 Email: sales@weloveseasons.com Visit: www.weloveseasons.com

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RETAIL INTERVIEW

Daisy Daisy

“We decided to t Rebekah Mudie, owner/director of The Retas 2025 award-winning Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts in the North Cardiff suburb of Llanishen, reflects on her retail journey

Our key categories are…

•

Homeware & ceramic gifts: mugs, jugs, vases, napkins, plant pots

•

Ornamental, glassware and pewter gifts: votives, candle holders, glass, wooden and ceramic figures, love spoons, keepsakes

•

Home fragrance: scented candles, diffusers, wax melts, lavender wheat bags

•

Toiletries: hand cream, soaps, bathing products, nail files

•

Handbags, purses, scarves, hats, gloves, key rings, umbrellas, cosmetic bags

•

Jewellery: both costume and silver/gold

•

Giftable stationery: notepads, journals, planners, diaries, calendars, pens, pencils

•

Children’s gifts: toys, cuddlies, games, books, clothes, stationery

•

Confectionary: chocolates and mints

•

Gift wrap, bags and accessories

•

Balloons and partyware, banners etc

•

Our very own gift vouchers to spend at Daisy Daisy!

I

own and run a charming little greeting card and gift shop called Daisy Dairy in the North Cardiff suburb of Llanishen. It all started five years ago during the Covid pandemic.

Daisy Daisy was already an established business in my local community when my husband Andy and I purchased it. I had been working part-time as a bookkeeper and small business accountant but was hoping for something new and exciting - particularly my own business; a project to get stuck into and a challenge.

That’s when I randomly stumbled across Daisy Daisy being up for sale. At the time in 2020 it was looking a bit outdated and tired, as the previous owner had been trying to sell it for some time due to family circumstances.

Despite this, it’s in a very good area with high street parking and loyal customers. So we could see real potential to make it a success again. After some consideration, we decided to take a risk and invest. It wasn’t necessarily about financial gain, but rather about saving a much-loved small independent community shop and bringing it back to life.

At that stage Covid was prevalent with no sign of a vaccination, and many uncertainties due to lockdowns and financial considerations. But I felt very passionately that I could make the business work, using my skillset and Andy’s expertise in marketing. I previously worked as a greeting card merchandiser for a large UK card company, so I had a little bit of knowledge about the industry. I learnt quickly!

I originally intended to scale down the vast number of cards and focus more on gifting. I felt that today’s generations were not sending as many cards and using technology and social media platforms instead. I also thought most people purchased cards at supermarkets and gifts online from Amazon.

However, I was wrong!

We opened in November 2020. For several months we made no changes in terms of products, but just gave the environment a little bit of TLC and took everything in. I soon realised cards were actually the bread-and-butter income, and gifts and accessories were the bonus sales.

I knew that in the future we would need to adapt to trends and changes. I also wanted to put my own stamp on the business but not change it too quickly so as not to lose any customers and, more importantly, to gain new ones.

“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved at our lovely shop” For the first three years, I worked very hard and saved as much money as possible to put towards a full shop refurbishment. We needed to remove a wall to open up the layout and make the best use of space. The plan was to relocate cards from the central aisles to the wall perimeters, and move all the gifts into the centre to make them more visible and appealing - thus having the best of both worlds in terms of maximising sales.

Previously, gifts were crammed into a little adjoining not well-lit room. Very few customers could fit in there and it didn’t naturally flow. It was too easy for shoplifters as well. So there were many reasons to make alterations.

Last summer we gutted the shop - and it was challenging! In five weeks we removed the wall, raised the low ceiling, and fully painted and decorated. New flooring and lighting were fitted, along with new fixtures, fittings and gondolas - and a new modern

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o take a risk” EPOS till was installed. This obviously came at a price (way over budget) but the investment has certainly been worth it.

We’ve seen a wonderful increase in footfall since day one of reopening following these improvements, and had such positive feedback. We feel very lucky that our hard work and risk-taking is proving rewarding.

Having done nothing like this before, I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved at our lovely shop. Without the brilliant staff (who I inherited when we bought Daisy Daisy) and our fantastic customers, we wouldn’t be where we are now.

So, what do we sell gift-wise? We try to tick many boxes, from traditional ranges to the more modern and contemporary. We would need a much bigger shop to cater for all tastes!

I’d say traditional, original products take the edge.

I tend to steer away from licensed and endorsed products unless they are old British favourites like Beatrix Potter, Paddington, William Morris, and charities like The National Trust and RSPB. I also like modern designs by female designers such as Caroline Gardner, Sara Miller, Rachel Ellen Designs, and Emma Bridgewater. Welsh language and Welsh designed/made products are really important here in Cardiff of course.

There are so many great companies I like to buy from [see box] and I rotate their products. I have to say, men’s gifting is a challenge to source. We’re very limited in this area until we find a range or two that we feel is a good fit, good quality, and will actually sell! Any recommendations would be gratefully received…

I source stock through several means: agents, sales reps, trade magazines, social media, and exhibitions such as Spring Fair, Autumn Fair and Progressive Greetings Live. The Gift of The Year Awards coverage is a source of inspiration. I also visit similar shops to Daisy Daisy for ideas.

I look for quality above all else. Rather than cheap and cheerful, we have more higher-end gifts which are

value for money. And sustainability is important; I try to steer clear of a lot of plastic where possible. Pleasingly, this is improving with many suppliers.

Ideally, I source UK-made (particularly Welsh) products. I try to find unusual designs and go with my gut instinct - plus my personal taste. I also like to offer some local handmade items. Our gifts range from 60p to £50 so they’re all affordable, and many are pick-up items.

New arrivals include Rex London (sourced at Spring Fair), Wild Things’ ornamental glass hangers, Enesco’s Kloche and Wild & Wood ornamental keepsake gifts, Rosie Made A Thing’s fun boxed china mugs, Rainbow Designs’ soft toys and children’s books, and Coral & Mint’s stylish boxed jewellery.

On our counter/till we have Wild Things’ hanging glass sentiment birds, Toasted Crumpet’s mini cards on a spinner, sparkly pens, tinned mints, wooden sentiment hearts, charity donation tubs and more!

We always offer to tissue-wrap customers’ purchases free of charge. We actually have a tissue menu! Bee & Daisies patterned tissue paper from Morplan is the most popular design, and gives a lovely finishing touch to a gift, along with a sticker with our logo on it.

In short, I absolutely love my job and my business.

I work all hours/days and give it my all because Daisy Daisy, my customers, and my community mean the world to me. I do hope this is conveyed by our welcoming, friendly environment and atmosphere.

I thoroughly enjoy stocking great products and finding exciting new ones. Above all, my staff and I love helping, chatting to, and getting to know our customers - it’s so rewarding and a privilege.

Our larger suppliers are…

Gisela Graham: particularly Spring and Christmas stock Joe Davies: especially Equilibrium jewellery and Village Pottery Langs: it has a lovely Welsh collection (while based in England) Enesco: especially Kloche and Wild & Wood CGB Giftware: sentimental hanging hearts and tokens Jellycat: extremely popular soft toys Peace of Mind (PoM): lovely affordable ranges of jewellery, scarves, bags and accessories - all great sellers for us Joma Jewellery: sentiment bracelets have a huge following

Other great suppliers include...

Wild-Olive, Hot Tomato, Belly Button Designs, Rader, Wrendale Designs, Widdop & Co., Alice Wheeler London, Talking Tables, Lily-Flame, Coral & Mint, Toasted Crumpet, Wild Things, Museums & Galleries, Crumble & Core, Glick, Rachel Ellen Designs, Caroline Gardner, Rosie Made A Thing, The Wheat Bag Company, Half Moon Bay, CoCo Pzazz, AE Williams, Sass & Belle, and Ziggle Baby Gifts Today 27

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Cover Story...

Langs

The joy of spring - u When Home & Gift opens its doors in Harrogate this month, all eyes will be on the new season - and Langs is ready to steal the spotlight with a launch that’s “nothing short of spectacular,” Gifts Today finds out more from director of design and buying Jane Bourne

W

e will unveil our brand-new ranges for the upcoming season of Spring 2026 at Home & Gift: a collection that’s brimming with colour, joyful design and artistic flair. With the backdrop of Harrogate, it’s a great way to plan your buying before the busy season of Christmas hits!

This charming spa town turns into a buzzing hub of exhibitors and buyers.

We find it’s a nice, relaxed atmosphere to catch up with our customers and welcome new customers to our stand, while enjoying a stroll in the evening for some lovely food and drinks.

Behind-the-scenes

Our talented in-house team of creatives’ passion for design fuels every product. Whether it’s hand-drawn illustrations, hand-painted artwork or crafted digital graphics, every detail in the collections has been thoroughly created with care and a genuine love for what they do. We are very fortunate to have a diverse team with strengths in all areas of design.

At the heart of every collection, our core values will shine through with storytelling. We believe the design should not only look beautiful but feel meaningful and bring a sense of delight into the everyday - it’s about creating products that our customers truly love.

It’s this thoughtful, heart-led approach that sets us apart and makes our stand at Harrogate one not to miss. If you’re sourcing statement gifts, eyecatching homeware, or just looking for a burst of inspiration, this is where spring truly begins.

And with spring now one of the biggest buying seasons of the year, our early launch gives our customers a valuable head-start, allowing buyers to plan with confidence and freeing them up to focus on the all-important buildup to the Christmas season. The stock can be delivered in the New Year - just when shops need that fresh burst of exciting new products.

Floral Serenade

Our latest hand-painted floral collection is a true celebration of spring in full bloom. Floral Serenade is a mix of anemones, hyacinths, tulips and more.

This new range bursts with colour and is brought to life through original artwork, lovingly painted by our inhouse designer. It features a diverse mix of patterns and palettes, with delicate brushstrokes used across a blend of materials including mango wood, hand-crafted Indian textiles, glass and ceramics.

“

If you’re sourcing gifts, homeware, or just looking for a burst of inspiration, this is where spring truly begins

Bright and Beautiful

”

It may sound like a hymn, but Bright and Beautiful is the name of one of our most uplifting new collections, designed to bring a smile the moment you see it. True to its name, the collection is bursting with cheerful colour, patterns and artwork that radiate positivity. From giftware to home accessories, each piece is made to lift the mood and bring sunny energy to shelves and interiors alike. It’s not just a collection - it’s a feel-good moment in product form.

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g - unwrapped The art of a card

Tiny World

We’re delighted to introduce the latest additions to our best-selling Tiny World collection. These sweet mini boxed gifts include Spring and Easter-themed ornaments as well as adorable food-themed fabric keepsakes. Each design comes with a matching sentiment, making them a thoughtful and ready-to-gift keepsake.

From an adorable spring lamb and goose to a cup of tea and a tiny burger, there’s a Tiny World favourite for everyone. Beautifully packaged and full of charm, these miniature treasures continue to capture hearts and are perfect for brightening displays and delighting customers.

Flourish & Foliage

Step into spring with Flourish & Foliage: our fresh new home and giftware range blooming in calming blues and greens, punctuated with joyful coral accents. This collection celebrates nature’s charm, from hand-painted ceramics featuring floral motifs, to the standout flower-handle detail on the mugs and jugs. Tactile textures shine through with scalloped-edge mango wood boards; their floral engravings adding warmth and depth. It’s a curated blend of rustic elegance and playful detail, which is perfect for seasonal refreshes and feel-good gifting.

Looking for a beautiful greeting card range?

Our collection offers something for everyone.

It features our much-loved hand-painted artwork, alongside charming illustrated and digital designs. Whether your customers are after heartfelt sentiments, a little humour, or timeless art styles, we’ve got it covered.

All our cards are proudly designed and printed in the UK, blank inside and retailready with envelope. Not only do they look lovely, but they’re excellent value too. For a simple sales solution, ask about our card spinner - complete with 288 cards across 24 bestselling designs. A true fuss-free favourite!

Coo-lour explosion

Meet Rainbow Coo, inspired by the beloved Highland cow. This cheerful chap or lass gets a vibrant makeover in this joyful gift collection.

From bold brushstrokes to rainbow splashes, each piece is designed to spark a smile. The artwork, which is developed in-house, really brings this iconic Scottish figure to life.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our stand at Home & Gift, where you’ll be the first to explore a host of brand-new collections making their debut. If you’re still on the hunt for those last-minute Autumn and Christmas gems, we’ll have plenty of seasonal favourites ready to shop too.

See you there!

If you can’t make it, all products will be available to view online. Or even better, call your agent, who will be happy to help.

Stand: A-A30 Call: 01332 340927 Email: sales@richardlang.co.uk Visit: www.richardlang.co.uk Gifts Today 29

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OPINION

OPINION

Let’s talk about…

bricks and clicks Should indie retailers go online? For most businesses, the answer is a resounding yes, says THINK BIG co-founder Bryony Taylor-Edwards. She shares her essential start-up strategy

T

he digital revolution has fundamentally transformed how consumers shop, and independent gift retailers face a critical question: should they establish an online presence? The answer, for most businesses, is a resounding yes. However, the key lies in approaching digital expansion strategically, rather than rushing headlong into the vast ocean of e-commerce.

Independent retailers who resist online expansion risk being left behind. Recent consumer behaviour shows that even local shoppers research products online before visiting physical stores.

By maintaining solely a bricks-and-mortar presence, indie retailers limit their reach to foot traffic and wordof-mouth recommendations, missing opportunities to connect with customers who may never stumble upon their physical location.

The benefits extend beyond simple reach. An online presence provides valuable customer data, enables targeted marketing, and creates opportunities for repeat business through email marketing and social media engagement. Moreover, digital platforms allow retailers to showcase their unique product curation and brand personality to a much wider audience.

The prospect of launching an online store can feel overwhelming. But successful digital expansion doesn’t require a massive initial investment or complete business overhaul.

Begin by identifying your bestselling products and most distinctive offerings. Rather than attempting to digitise your entire inventory immediately, focus on 2030 products that represent your brand well and have proven appeal. Here is my 3-step launch strategy:

1

stablish your digital E foundation

Start with a user-friendly e-commerce platform such as Shopify, Squarespace, or WooCommerce. Invest time in high-quality product photography: this single

element can make or break online sales. Natural lighting and clean backgrounds work better than expensive studio setups for most gift items. Create compelling product descriptions that tell stories rather than simply listing features.

2

I ntegrate with existing operations

Your online presence should complement, not complicate, your current business model. Use inventory management systems that sync between your physical and digital stores to prevent overselling. Consider offering click-and-collect services, which drive online traffic to your physical location and reduce shipping costs. Leverage your existing customer relationships by announcing your online launch through in-store displays and personal conversations.

3

Build gradually

Once your initial product range is live and functioning smoothly, gradually expand your online offerings. Monitor which products perform well digitally versus in-store - you may discover surprising differences in customer preferences between channels.

Perhaps the most crucial realisation for indie retailers is that online and bricks-and-mortar operations are fundamentally different businesses that happen to share the same brand.

Your physical store thrives on atmosphere, tactile experiences, and spontaneous discoveries. Online retail operates on entirely different principles. Customers typically arrive with specific intent and rely heavily on visual presentation and detailed descriptions.

In-store customers expect personal service and expert advice. Online customers expect immediate information, fast checkout processes, and quick responses to enquiries. This doesn’t mean compromising service quality, but rather adapting your approach through comprehensive FAQ sections, detailed product guides, or responsive customer service features.

Running both channels successfully requires understanding their different rhythms and customer behaviours. Consider dedicating specific products to each channel initially, allowing you to understand each channel’s preferences without constant inventory conflicts.

Designate specific team responsibilities: one person could handle online photography and uploads, while another manages digital customer enquiries and shipping.

Starting an online presence need not require substantial upfront investment. Basic e-commerce platforms cost between £50-£100 monthly, and initial setup can be accomplished over several weekends.

Many successful indie retailers report that their online sales complement rather than take over their in-store purchases. However, e-commerce is a different and specialist skill and you may need some freelance help with setting-up and building a strategy.

The question isn’t whether independent gift retailers should go online, but how to successfully manage two complementary yet distinct business channels. Success lies in playing to each channel’s strengths.

Your physical store provides warmth and discovery that builds brand loyalty, while your online presence extends reach and provides convenience. Start simple, build gradually, and remember that the digital world needs more independent voices.

Bryony Taylor-Edwards is co-founder of Think BIG - a community dedicated to empowering purpose-led founders to build their business confidence, master a growth mindset, and have lasting impact.

Email: bryony@thinkbigleadership.com Visit: www.thinkbighuddles.co.uk

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Focus On...

Wild Things

Continuous

evolution!

Wild Things founder Jules Vahrman shares a mid-year progress report on developments at the artisan crystal gifts and collectables brand, which designs and handcrafts all of its products, which are shipped directly from its base in Exeter

W

ild Things’ products are still evolving, 41 years in. We are extending existing ranges, developing new ones, and reinventing old ones (watch this space!). All our gifts are designed in-house so are therefore unique to Wild Things. Each product features the best quality components and demonstrates our legendary attention to detail. Our mission is to produce ‘magical timeless gifts’ which transcend fashion.

Fabulous Floral Suncatchers Our beautiful Birth Month Flower Suncatcher range has been extended and rebranded as Fabulous Floral Suncatchers. Why? Because the range has been so successful that we felt the Birth Month Flower concept was too limiting. For instance, who doesn’t like sunflowers? And yet they don’t fit within the birth month category. Of course, It’s still possible for customers to limit themselves to the Birth Month Flowers and we provide a suitable flower guide for their displays.

Upgraded packaging now features a folding card with room inside for a message.

In addition to the Fabulous Floral Suncatchers pictured of the sunflower and violets, new designs include snowdrops, bluebells and forget-me-nots.

These are handmade, hand-painted, and embellished with 24 carat gold paint and a twinkly crystal - all with a £9.99 RRP price tag. There are counter displays for each range, and a floor stand which can take all three ranges.

months. The Pins still feature genuine sparkly Austrian crystals and still have an RRP of only £5.99 until the end of the year. Another tillside treat!

Bookmarks

Finally, Wild Things’ brand-new website at www.wildthingsgifts.com is almost there, along with many other works in progress. Stay tuned!

The top seller in our Crystal Dream range is now available as part of our Bookmark collection, featuring vibrant colours with sparkle and a lovely design. Again, there are floor or counter displays to suit.

Guardian Angel Pins This time, we have a completely revamped display for our Guardian Angel Pins. Away with the midnight blue, and in with lovely subtle pastels to complement the birth

Website

Call: 01392 211268 Email: sales@wildthingsgifts.com Visit: www.wildthingsgifts.com

Happy Little Bears Our Happy Little Bears are irresistible! These charming creatures follow in the wake of our bestsellers Pretty Little Birds, and last year’s Pretty Little Kitties. All 12 birthstones are featured, each with a different sentiment.

Again, a birth month guide is supplied ‘just in case’ customers wish to buy by the month.

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RETAIL INTERVIEW

The Voewood

“It’s our 10th anniversary this year, so we’re planning a party”

“We whooped!”

Clare Turner catches up with Nicola Hibon Jackson, founder of The Voewood in Blackheath Royal Standard: winner of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - London, South, South East & East Anglia category of The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025

Why did you decide you wanted to be a gift retailer?

I’m following in the footsteps of my parents. They still have a fabulous gift shop in Durham, The Mugwump, that my mum founded in 1966. I spent a lot of time throughout my teenage years working there and supporting them with buying at trade fairs. As a student, I enjoyed taking their gift shop to events as a pop-up stall.

Tell us a bit about The Voewood.

We are 50sq m in Blackheath Royal Standard: a green and leafy residential area of South East London near Greenwich Park. We opened in 2015 and are in a secondary retail location with very much a local customer base. We don’t really have tourists or students, so we rely on repeat customers and word of mouth.

Congratulations on your win in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025! How did you feel when you heard the news?

We whooped! The whole team came together for the awards ceremony and we were just totally thrilled with the news.

What do you think sets your gift shop apart from others?

I think we have a lovely unique range of really highquality products that stand the test of time and meet different price points. We put a lot of effort into making the shop itself an experience to enter and be part of so, for customers, it becomes just a nice way to spend time.

How would you describe your gift range?

Eclectic! I only get things that I would either like to have myself, or I can imagine precisely the person who would like them. They are very design-led. So,

whether greeting cards, bubble bath, pottery or scarves, they have to go beyond the form of the product and bring something extra to it that isn’t simply a copy of another brand.

moments in the year much more than previously, with a big effort put into Mother’s Day, Easter and Father’s Day - and we’re now focusing on the wedding season.

What are your key categories?

Cards, chocolate, toiletries, candles, toys, scarves, and jewellery.

How do you attract new customers and maintain the interest of existing ones?

We do a lot of work locally and act as a leader among local businesses to promote the district itself, rather than just the shop alone. We’ve designed and created street banners and posters and have also produced our own local magazine.

We have a digital mailing list that we use to connect with customers and promote offers, and we also make active use of Instagram and Facebook.

How do you find products?

We visit Top Drawer and Home & Gift, do online research, and look at Instagram.

What’s your selection criteria?

Price point, wide appeal, and design.

Which ranges are currently doing well?

Gisela Graham’s summer dining range, and HKLIVING pottery.

Who are your key suppliers?

Roka, One Hundred Stars, The English Soap Company, Maileg, Big Metal, Art House Unlimited, and St. Eval.

What’s on your counter/by the till?

Gift bags and chocolate: both a good upsell.

What are some of your new arrivals?

We’re very excited to have recently got Jellycat in-store and it’s proving hugely popular. We’re in love with the giant Evelyn Swan and the big Ricky Rain Frog Bag! We’ve also introduced a very localised range of mugs that is popular too, and bringing in an additional demographic.

How’s trading for you at the moment?

We’re definitely seeing economic constraints and a bit of an end-of-the-month/payday spend, with people perhaps not able to buy quite what they would like, when they would like. We’re focusing on

Do you offer any services?

We have gift vouchers which we sometimes offer as a sales incentive (for example, spend £100 and get a voucher for £10), which is a better margin than simply a discount.

What’s next for your gifts?

We have just expanded with Jellycat and are also considering other soft toy lines.

What’s next for your business?

It’s our 10th anniversary this year, so we’re planning a party.

What do you like most – and least - about your job?

Most? Chatting with customers and sourcing fantastic products. Worst? Paperwork!

What’s your current favourite gift on your shelves?

C.Atherley Geranium No.1 Bath Oil. It smells divine and is a fantastic way to unwind at the end of the day.

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Focus On...

Museums & Galleries

Marvel

at the mugs...

Museums & Galleries explains the story behind its move into fine bone china mugs - a new product category for the company, which made its debut at The Exclusively Show last month

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he team at Museums & Galleries (M&G) is excitedly awaiting delivery of its first shipment of bone china mugs this summer - a new product category which the company previewed to visitors at The Exclusively Show, held in London last month. The collection is available for pre-orders immediately, with delivery in September.

The mugs join M&G’s home and giftware collections including insulated bottles, travel mugs, PLA mugs, aprons, oven gloves, tea towels, organic cotton napkins, and cork-backed placemats and coaster sets - and, in many cases, co-ordinate across featured designs.

Research and development of the collection took more than 18 months, with chinaware being a completely new medium for the company. However, over the last few years, M&G has successfully broken out of the paper-based greeting cards, stationery and gift packaging arena.

The first departure was into textiles (tote bags, pouches, and kitchen textiles) and then metallics (insulated drinksware). So M&G was experienced in the issues - not the least of which is achieving a close colour match across different substrates, to ensure optimum co-ordination across ranges of different products to create the most effective in-store displays.

The mugs, which contain 380ml, are dishwasher- and microwave-safe and presented in keepsake gift boxes (but also have a ribbon tag for out of box display).

Creative director Ben Dorney explains that M&G drew on the expertise of many stakeholders and experts, including many prestigious museum licensors. The V&A and Tate Galleries especially have huge in-house experience in creating, retailing and licensing bone china products. So both institutions were able to advise and have input into the final design.

Ben says: “We wanted the overall profile of the mug to be timeless and classic, but also uniquely ours. We adapted and refined the mug’s profile, subtly elongating the can and contouring the base. The loop of the handle was also reconfigured. The result is a stylish, classic and very satisfying vessel for a delicious drinking experience.”

M&G selected William Morris’s iconic ‘Strawberry Thief’ from the V&A collections as its primary choice for the collection of four V&A mugs.

Another William Morris design is the popular ‘Leicester Wallpaper’, with favourites by Walter Crane (‘Cockatoo and Pomegranate’) and William De Morgan (‘Frog tile’) demonstrating the V&A’s wealth of Arts & Crafts masterpieces.

“The result is a stylish, classic and very satisfying vessel for a delicious drinking experience” Designs from the Tate include two bold modern pieces: a Henri Matisse paper cut out (‘Dancer’) and a contemporary work by Alvaro Barrington - a detail from the artist’s recent installation at Tate Britain, ‘Grace’. Accompanying these are designs by Romantic movement geniuses J.M.W. Turner and John Constable - the subjects of a joint exhibition at Tate Britain in the autumn.

Designers Matthew Williamson, Mary Katrantzou and Emily Burningham supply beautiful and striking designs, as do popular M&G artists Angela Harding, Catherine Rowe and Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press. Van Gogh’s beautiful ‘Almond Blossom’ is also included.

For M&G general manager Tom Williams, the packaging was an essential component of the product, in order to elevate the mug as a gift or self-purchase for either the home or office. The boxes are beautifully printed in full colour to match their contents, with all the technical details printed on a belly band. And the box itself is sturdy enough to function as a keepsake gift box after Call: 01373 462165 the mug takes pride of place Email: sales@mgml.co.uk in the kitchen Visit: www.museumsgalleries.co.uk cupboard.

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Puckator

Get summer ready!

With summer in full swing, Puckator - the wholesale supplier of unique gifts and lifestyle products - is gearing up for an exciting season with a sizzling new collection

K

nown for offering trend-led, practical and innovative giftware, Puckator is showcasing a diverse range of products for S/S25, designed to appeal to customers looking for both style and functionality.

The latest collection includes everything from versatile travel accessories to playful stationery and vibrant home essentials, making it the perfect fit for retailers looking to refresh their summer stock.

One of the highlights of this season’s collection is the Nectar Meadows range, which seamlessly blends elegance with everyday utility. Designed with versatility in mind, this floral collection features a wide range of products that add a touch of sophistication to any routine.

Whether it’s a chic accessory for the home or a thoughtful gift, this range is crafted to elevate the ordinary, offering something that suits a variety of tastes. With its refined design, the collection is perfect for retailers looking to cater to customers who appreciate both beauty and everyday use in their purchases.

For those on the go, the Swapseazzz 2-in-1 Travel Pillow is a must-have addition to any travel collection.

This innovative pillow effortlessly transforms from a cosy neck support pillow to a plush toy, offering both comfort and convenience for travellers. Whether it’s a long flight, a car ride, or a train journey, the Swapseazzz ensures that customers can travel in comfort.

This multi-functional travel accessory is sure to be as big a hit with families as it is in the industry. It was highly commended in the Novelty, Tech And Gadgets category of The Gift of the Year Awards 2025, making it a top contender for retail displays this summer.

In the world of stationery, Puckator has introduced a fun and quirky new addition: the Clicker Pens. Featuring playful cat designs, these pens bring a whimsical touch

to any desk or pencil case. By simply pulling the cat’s tongue, the pen’s tip pops out, making writing both fun and practical.

These pens are not just for kids but also appeal to adults who enjoy a little personality in their stationery.

With their charming design and practical use, Clicker Pens are perfect for adding a touch of character to any workspace or retail display.

For fans of beloved characters, Puckator’s Moomin range has been refreshed for the summer season with bright and cheerful new designs. The Moomin collection features compact mirrors, lip balms, and nail files, which are all designed with a minimalist yet vibrant aesthetic.

This updated range brings a burst of colour to everyday beauty routines and is sure to be a hit with both long-time Moomin fans and those discovering the characters for the first time. It’s an ideal addition to any retailer’s beauty or gift section.

Finally, as the summer heat rises, staying hydrated is a priority - and Puckator’s new Stainless Steel Water Bottles are the perfect solution. Available in more than 10 unique designs, they can store either hot or cold drinks for any occasion. Stylish, practical, and environmentally-friendly, these bottles offer a fresh way to stay hydrated on the go.

With this exciting new range, Puckator continues to reinforce its position as a wholesaler of choice for retailers looking to offer fresh, creative, and functional products.

By combining aesthetics with everyday usefulness, these products provide both quality and novelty, ensuring a summer season filled with great sales potential.

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

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Candlelight

A significant step Candlelight is extending beyond home fragrance into the realm of personal care, with the launch of a brand-new luxurious Silk Road-inspired Bath & Body collection

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andlelight is delighted to announce the expansion of its product offering with the launch of a brand-new Bath & Body collection, arriving in July.

This launch marks a significant and exciting step for the well-loved home fragrance brand, as it moves into the personal care market with a beautifully curated and indulgent range.

Part of the brand’s opulent Silk Road Collection (which was shortlisted in the Home Fragrance category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025, organised

by The Giftware Association), the new Bath & Body line is inspired by the rich cultural heritage, sensory richness, and timeless elegance of the ancient Silk Road: the network of trade routes and trading posts that connected the Western world with Asia and the Middle East.

The collection launches in two captivating signature fragrances - Bukhara and Samarkand - each designed to evoke the mystique and exotic charm of their namesakes. Importantly, the entire Bath & Body range is proudly made in England, ensuring high standards of craftsmanship, quality, and consistency across the collection.

The initial range includes six luxurious products: bath bombs, shower steamers, hand & body lotion, bubble bath, soap, and bath salts.

Created with both everyday indulgence and thoughtful gifting in mind, each product is beautifully packaged in line with Candlelight’s signature aesthetic.

The packaging is sophisticated and refined, with price points that make the range ideal for both self-purchase and the retail gifting market.

Looking ahead, Candlelight will be introducing Phase 2 of the collection later in 2025. This next phase will see the launch of elegant washbags and toiletry bags, expanding the collection’s appeal and allowing customers to build complete gifting sets.

The full Bath & Body range will be officially launched and available for purchase at Autumn Fair 2025, one of the UK’s leading trade shows for home and gift retailers. Visitors will be able to experience the collection firsthand and place orders ahead of the key retail seasons.

With this expansion, Candlelight continues its mission to combine beauty, quality, and affordability - now extending Call: 01709 723000 beyond home fragrance Email: contact@candlelight.co.uk into the realm of Visit: www.candlelight.co.uk personal care.

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Product Focus

Widdop & Co.

Rainbow Designs

Plush

The soft sell

The Wheat Bag Company

Soft toys continue to resonate strongly with consumers due to their timeless appeal. They evoke feelings of comfort, nostalgia, and emotional connection that transcend generations. Cuddle up with us as we discover more about what’s shaping the ever-evolving plush sector

O

nce seen primarily as cherished children’s companions, soft toys are now capturing the hearts of a much wider demographic. More adults are rediscovering the joy of plush, building collections and celebrating their nostalgic charm. We asked suppliers to share their thoughts on why this timeless gift category continues to resonate…

What’s been happening in this sector lately?

Zara Grindrod, sales and brand director of Rainbow Designs: Long gone are the days when a soft toy was just a gift for a baby or child. The baby gifting category is well versed in plush, but high quality products and the collectability factor has played a large part in the evolution of plush enveloping the kidult audience.

Ranges such as our new Mr. Men Little Miss collection, as well as the Classic Paddington and Disney Winnie the Pooh lines, deliver across all age categories, making them a smart choice for gift retailers.

A further trend playing a large part in the rise of plush gifting is Kwaii: Japan’s beloved culture phenomenon. And we’re very excited to be Zara Grindrod welcoming a new brand in this growing genre into our character collection for 2026 - look out for the announcement!

Sally Moore managing director of The Wheat Bag Company: Heatable plush companions are firmly in growth mode, driven by wellness, sustainability and smart design. These products are popular with adults and children - everyone loves to snuggle up with our cuddly warm Beddy Buddy.

Stephen Illingworth, CEO at Widdop & Co.: We’ve definitely seen a shift in who soft toys are for. It’s no longer just about children - more adults are engaging with plush to express personality, or as gifts or collectables. We kept that wider appeal in mind when creating our Softies Sally Moore range, aiming for a design with broad, timeless charm that works for all ages.

What hot trends have you noticed?

Zara: There’s a demand for toys that support emotional development and imaginative play, and our new timeless and classic range of Bonnika Soft Dolls from the Sri Lakan-based Tikiri Toys certainly support this. These traditional and contemporary soft huggable dolls offer a meaningful and distinctive alternative for retailers seeking thoughtful, emotionally enriching toys.

Collectables are still very much a growing trend, and our new Mr. Men Little Miss range includes an adorable range of large cuddly cushions, collectable plush toys and plush keychains.

Stephen: Storytelling and character-driven products are huge right now. Every Stephen Softie has its own name and backstory; many inspired by our own children. That Illingworth personal connection makes them more than just a toy; they’re little characters you can really relate to, and we really want to build on that. We’re also seeing a big appetite for soft toys that feel ‘giftable’ - and our house-style packaging really taps into that.

Any new product developments you can share?

Sally: Our range of designs is expanding year-on-year, and we’re currently working on some exciting new designs for Autumn/Winter.

Stephen: This is just the beginning for Softies! As our first step into plush, we’ve poured everything into getting it right - and the response so far has been fantastic. We’re already looking ahead at what’s next in the range, with new characters, merchandise, and nursery décor in the pipeline!

Buyer’s Eye

Self-proclaimed plush professional Lindsey Scott-Walker, owner of Feather Robins gift shop in Northampton, shares her insights

We’re plush professionals and proudly stock a carefully cuddled collection of beloved brands. You’ll find charming characters from Maileg, the vintagestyled darlings from Powell Craft, squishy cuties from Orange Toys, and the palmsized bundles of joy from Palm Pals.

What sells really well for me? The whole Maileg collection is like a tiny Danish fairytale that just flies off the shelves! Mice in matchboxes, rabbits with wardrobes - they’re all absolute stars.

Beyond that, we’ve noticed some quirky critters stepping into the plush spotlight lately. Capybaras are having a major moment (the internet’s chillest rodents are finally getting their plushy due), and axolotls - those sweet, smiley underwater wonders - are proving to be surprisingly huggable heartthrobs. And black cat Palm Pals are a favourite with kidults and children alike.

But of course, classic teddy bears still reign supreme. There’s something about that timeless, cuddly comfort that never goes out of style. Basically, if it’s soft, slightly odd, and totally lovable, it’s so Feather Robins - which is what we are known for.

Have I noticed any changing trends over the past couple of years?

Absolutely! One of the biggest (and most delightful) shifts we’ve seen is the rise of the kidult: those grown-up-but-you’d-never-guessit customers who are rediscovering the joy of plush toys, miniature worlds, and unapologetic whimsy.

Our Maileg range has been particularly popular with this crowd. The beautiful matchbox mice and dreamy dollhouse pieces tug right at the nostalgic heartstrings. And Powell Craft’s vintage-inspired teddy bears are totally irresistible to anyone with a love of old-school charm and character.

More and more, we’re seeing adults buying for themselves, not just for little ones - and we love that! And what’s particularly great is that these are not seasonal sales.

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Bear essential

Meet Softies!

The Art File

Widdop & Co.

The Art File is pleased to offer a stunning gift collection of plush toys. Bear Plush is a super soft and huggable plush toy that has sustainability in mind. Every ‘Bear’ is produced from 100% post-consumer recycled PET plastic bottles - both the outer fabric and inner stuffing. There are two sizes available in Bear Plush, with every Bear also coming with an embroidered colourful logo tag, stitched into the side, giving it a touch of charm.

Step into the whimsical world of Softies - where cuddly characters, big personalities, and everyday adventures come to life!

Launched earlier this year, Softies is a heartwarming new plush range from Widdop & Co., packed with charm and characterful personalities. From bookish bunnies to trivia-loving dinosaurs, each Softie has its own unique story to tell - like Freddie the athletic Fox or Tommy the T-Rex, who’s full of fun facts.

Designed for kids and grown-ups alike, Softies are made for gifting, collecting, and cuddling. With optional add-ons available, such as house-shaped gift-ready boxes, a branded FSDU, and POS packs including character bio cards, it’s a range that’s as practical as it is irresistible.

Created by Dan and Stephen Illingworth and inspired by real people and family members from the Widdop & Co. team, Softies blends 140 years of family heritage and experience with a fresh, playful spirit - helping retailers meet the growing demand for soft toys.

Call: 0115 850 7490 Email: hello@theartfile.com Visit: www.theartfile.com

Plush pals

The Wheat Bag Company Beddy Buddies are microwavable comforting plush toys designed to bring warmth and relaxation. Each Beddy Buddy features a soft, cuddly exterior with a secure Velcro opening, revealing a removable inner bag filled with 100% English flaxseed. Simply heat the bag in the microwave for up to one minute to enjoy gentle, soothing warmth.

Perfect for snuggling, calming bedtime routines, or easing aches and pains, Beddy Buddies are suitable for all ages over 36 months.

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

Call: 01747 840 500 Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk Visit: www.thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Our best selling Classic collection

Real wooden toggles

Embroidered PB initials

Classic Paddington with Boots

© P&Co. Ltd./SC 2025 Licensed by Studocanal Kids & Family Limited

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Product Focus Plush

Timeless tales,

treasured moments Contemporary gift supplier Enesco is very proud to have been a leading Beatrix Potter licensee for almost 40 years

E

nesco’s wide Beatrix Potter collection celebrates the beloved characters and tales created by the eponymous children’s book author-illustrator, most notably “The Tale of Peter Rabbit”. Each piece in this line is thoughtfully designed by the in-house product development team based in the UK, to capture the whimsy and innocence of Beatrix’s enchanting world.

Enesco’s headquarters in Carlisle, near the picturesque Lake District, deepens the emotional connection with the Beatrix Potter brand. This proximity to the landscapes that inspired Beatrix’s stories infuses each collection with authenticity and local heritage, resonating strongly with fans and enhancing the sentimental value of every gift and plush.

Intricately detailed giftware seamlessly blends art and storytelling, making it ideal for collectors, gifters, and fans of all ages. Loved and admired globally, the Beatrix Potter collection is also a great favourite with tourists throughout the UK. The gift collection features a wide array of decorative items such as nursery gifts, the alphabet, mugs, children’s dinnerware, money banks, frames, and so much more. Frequently adorned with delicate illustrations and famous quotes from the original books, these thoughtful gifts bring the timeless appeal of Peter Rabbit and friends into everyday life.

They make perfect presents for special occasions such as baby showers, birthdays, and christenings offering not only practicality but a sentimental value that will be cherished for years.

A brand-new introduction is ‘The Tale of Peter Rabbit Animated Soft Toy’. This super cuddly plush brings Beatrix Potter’s beloved character to life, combining the timeless charm of Peter Rabbit with engaging storytelling.

The animated soft toy recites the full eightminute-long story of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” along with enchanting sound effects, creating an immersive storytelling experience. It comes complete with batteries and is presented in an attractive gift box.

Meanwhile, the plush collection introduces a tactile dimension to Beatrix Potter’s universe. Each plush is designed with a focus on authenticity and attention to detail, using soft, high-quality materials to ensure safety and comfort for even the youngest fans.

Characters such as Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, and Jemima Puddle-duck are brought to life as cuddly companions, perfect for snuggling or imaginative play.

These plush toys are tested to the highest standards, making them ideal as gifts for young children and adults alike.

With strong brand awareness, Enesco’s Beatrix Potter collections boast multi-generational appeal.

Parents and grandparents who cherish the stories from their own childhood are often eager to pass them on, creating an emotional resonance that extends across generations.

Whether displayed as keepsakes, incorporated into nursery décor, or built into a lifestyle, the Beatrix Potter collections from Enesco offer more than just products. They offer nostalgia, comfort, and cherished memories.

With their reputation for quality and broad range appeal, these collections remain perennially popular. For your customers, gifting from the Beatrix Potter range means sharing a piece of literary and artistic history, lovingly reimagined by Enesco for modern families.

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

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Product Focus Plush

Animal magic Hannah Dale, creative director and co-founder of Wrendale Designs, chats to Gifts Today about the global giftware company’s ever-growing plush collection

Tell us about your plush range.

Our plush collection brings our much-loved animal characters to life in a tactile and utterly huggable form. Each character has its own personality and backstory, and we’ve worked hard to ensure the plush toys retain the charm and expression of the original illustrations.

How did it evolve?

The collection was a natural evolution of the brand. Our animal characters had already developed a strong following, so turning them into plush creations felt like the perfect next step. The range launched in 2020, and since then has grown steadily, supported by strong demand and heartfelt feedback from fans of all ages.

What inspires your designs?

Our plush designs are inspired by British wildlife, and each one is infused with my signature style: soft, expressive watercolours with quirky, lovable characteristics.

We work incredibly hard to ensure that the plush really does reflect the artwork we want each character to be instantly recognised as a ‘Wrendale’ plush; unique and totally different from anything else on the market.

We do this by insisting on the very best quality and by choosing fabrics that best reflect the textures and colours in the artwork, adding extra detail, making sure that each character has something extra special, retaining the essence of the artwork, and really bringing them to life.

How many ranges do you offer?

We currently have 17 animals within our plush collection, each with its own name and story, and those animals each come in the ‘original’, ‘Junior’ and keyring sizes, offering something for every budget. The collection is continuously expanding, reflecting the strong demand we are experiencing.

What are your bestsellers?

Among our bestsellers are Rowan the Hare, Fern the Fox and Gordon the Highland Cow. These characters really seem to capture people’s hearts and have become staples in our plush collection. The combination of fabrics truly captures the essence of the animal and artwork they were inspired by.

Do you have any upcoming plush releases?

Yes. We’re excited to launch three new animals to the collection this season: Chester the Beaver [see box], Vanessa the Pig, and Rosie the Rabbit. To those who have had a sneak peek of the range, Chester has proved to be the most popular, but Rosie the Rabbit has also captured hearts with her super soft fur and long, floppy ears.

What’s the best way for retailers to see your plush collection?

Retailers can explore our plush range through our network of sales agents, visiting us at a trade show or heading to our website. We’ll have the full collection at Home & Gift, as well as the new releases.

Call: 01652 680253 Email: info@wrendaledesigns.co.uk | Visit: www.wrendaledesigns.co.uk

Say hello to Chester!

In 2019 Hannah and her husband Jack (director and co-founder of Wrendale Designs) made the decision to cease commercial food production on their arable farm in Lincolnshire and transform the land into a landscape where nature can recover and flourish.

Their rewilding project ‘Wild Wrendale’ is a true labour of love, bringing their passion for nature and wildlife to life. Just a year ago, they introduced two beavers to their farm - the first in Lincolnshire in over 400 years! Now, they’re celebrating a special milestone: welcoming their very first beaver kit. It’s perfect timing for the launch of their new beaver plush Chester, inspired by the first beaver pair arrival.

This lovable plush not only captures Chester’s charm, but spreads awareness of their ongoing conservation efforts. Chester is already proving to be a firm favourite at Wrendale HQ, and the company is excited to hear feedback from customers and loyal plush collectors.

After a reveal of giant plush Chester at Spring Fair, and many customers requesting to home Chester temporarily in their stores to promote the plush collection, Wrendale Designs ran a competition for stockists to put forward their pitch to host him.

You can meet Chester in giant plush form as he goes on tour* across the UK at Northumberland Zoo (July 21-August 29), Dyfi Wildlife Centre, Wales (September 1-October 3), One More Bear, Stoke on Trent (October 6-November 26), The Bay Tree Company, Edinburgh (November 27-January 2 2026), Maybugs, Eastbourne (January 5 2026-February 27 2026), and Groves Nurseries, Dorset (March 2 2026-April 3 2026). *Dates subject to change.

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customersevices@puckator.co.uk | 0800 011 6969 | www.puckator.co.uk

Product Focus Plush

Charlie Bears

celebrates 20 years The beloved British premium collectable bear brand Charlie Bears is marking its two-decade milestone with iconic collaborations and expanding gift-ready ranges

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s 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of Charlie Bears, the premium bear brand is celebrating two decades of “Bears with Personalities” with a series of high-profile collaborations and expanded product offerings, designed to delight both devoted collectors and new generations of bear-lovers.

Founded in 2005, Charlie Bears has built a global reputation for its hand-crafted, limited-edition bears and characters, cherished by collectors around the world. To commemorate this milestone year, the brand has partnered with two cultural icons: beloved storybook favourites the Moomins, and renowned British fashion designer Julien Macdonald OBE (see box).These special editions are a testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, character, and collectability.

For retailers, Charlie Bears offers more than just collectors’ items. The brand has evolved to offer a broad portfolio of giftable soft plush characters, appealing to a wide audience and suitable for all ages. Whether it’s a luxurious heirloom gift or a snuggly bedtime companion, Charlie Bears presents a heartwarming solution for gift stores looking to add value, variety, and emotion to their shelves.

Bearhouse

Bearhouse by Charlie Bears introduces mythical and magical characters in soft plush. These enchanting, non-jointed creations are machine washable and entirely child-friendly, making them perfect for imaginative play and storytelling. Following the Bearhouse by Charlie Bears reveal of dragons and gargoyles, the final launch of 2025 features more magic in the form of ogres and giants.

Bear & Me

Bear & Me by Charlie Bears is tailored for the youngest fans, offering ultra-soft plush animal companions suitable from birth.

These huggable characters are designed for comfort and calm, making them ideal gifts for newborns and toddlers alike, and new to the brand are Bear & Me by Charlie Bears wearable bags, suitable for little ones aged three and up.

Cuddle Cubs

For families on the go, Cuddle Cubs by Charlie Bears provides compact, portable plush companions perfect for travel, outings, or quiet moments on the move. With characters small enough for little hands and big enough to offer a comforting presence, they make an ideal everyday gift.

In a market where emotional connection and meaningful moments matter more than ever, soft plush gifts offer a timeless solution. Charlie Bears taps into the enduring joy of cuddles and

comfort, giving consumers the chance to share warmth, nostalgia, and love, one bear hug at a time.

With its premium appeal, diverse product range, and a milestone celebration featuring headline collaborations, Charlie Bears is perfectly positioned to help retailers capitalise on both the collector market and the family gifting space.

As the brand celebrates its 20th year, it invites new stockists to join the journey and share in the magic of gifting heartfelt companions that last a lifetime.

Call: 01566 777092 Email: uk-sales@charliebears.co.uk Visit: www.charliebears.co.uk

A dazzling collaboration

Charlie Bears has announced a collaboration with British fashion designer Julien Macdonald OBE. This exciting partnership sees Julien bring his trademark glamour to the Charlie Bears Signature Collection.

The debut release from the Charlie Bears Julien Macdonald Signature Collection features three exquisitely Julien Macdonald designed, fully jointed characters: OBE with Charlie Cosmo, Miyaka, and Feleena. Each Morris, founder of showcases feline elegance, pom-pom Charlie Bears adorned tails, and bespoke fashion neckpieces, inspired by Julien’s signature style.

Launching exclusively on QVC UK on June 26, the collection will also be made available to both new and existing Charlie Bears stockists. Retailers interested in stocking this limitededition range are encouraged to contact the Charlie Bears sales team.

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Cuddly characters Rainbow Designs

Rainbow Designs offers a collection of licensed character soft toys and gifts. Bestselling character ranges include Paddington, Peter Rabbit, Guess How Much I Love You, and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh.

Arriving this summer is the Mr. Men Little Miss range. A treasured British brand for more than 50 years, these characters - with their distinct personalities - have been adored by generations of families. The range includes large cuddly cushions, collectable soft toys and plush keychains, starring Mr. Tickle, Mr. Happy, Mr. Bump and Mr. Strong, alongside Little Miss Hug, Little Miss Sunshine, Little Miss Princess and Little Miss Chatterbox.

The Peter Rabbit Signature Collection includes soft toys, comforters and ring rattles, and features two of the most traditional and much-loved children’s literacy characters. Popular lines are the Signature Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny Blanket Gift Sets, which include a plush toy and knitted blanket, featuring a white bunny silhouette with a cute bobble tail: all packaged in an illustrated keepsake box.

The nation’s favourite bear, Paddington, is the focus of three of Rainbow’s bestselling collections. The Paddington For Baby range of nursery toys, comforters and rattles make beautiful gifts for newborns and young babies. The fun-packed The Adventures of Paddington toy range keeps preschoolers entertained, and the bestselling premium Classic Paddington collection makes a heartfelt keepsake for Paddington fans of all ages.

Rainbow’s Guess How Much I Love You soft toys and gifts make the perfect present for any special occasion. New additions this summer include the Nutbrown Hare Soft Toy and Milestone Cards and Soft Toy and Muslin Gift Sets.

Finally, the Disney Classic Pooh Always and Forever range is a collection of Winnie the Pooh soft toys and baby gifts, including gift-boxed soft toys, comforters and ring rattles - and a super soft Winnie the Pooh Muslin Comforter will join the range later this year.

Call: 01329 277300 | Email: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk Visit: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Weird & wonderful Joe Davies

Baa-rilliant!

Herdy

Surround yourself with serious cuddle appeal at Home & Gift with Herdy’s adorable new range of premium plush toys. Pop over to the stand and be the first to meet the super-sized snuggly characters and their mini-me clip-on companions.

Bringing the lovable Herdy and Sheppy characters to life, this collection will appeal to both little lambs and grown-up fans alike.

Made from ultra-soft luxury plush with Herdy’s signature charm, each toy is ideal for gift-giving across all ages.

The range features full-sized cuddle companions for home, alongside pocket-sized clip-on versions perfect for bags, keys, or on-the-go adventures.

Whether you’re after a big cuddle buddy or a pocket-sized pal to tag along on your adventures, Herdy’s new plush range will have ewe coming back for more!

Call: 01539 739202 | Email: sales@herdy.co.uk Visit: www.herdy.co.uk

Get ready for a plush revolution with Gus Fink Studios’ character collection, exclusively distributed

by Joe Davies. New for 2025, this range features a bold selection of on-trend plush characters that merge the sweet with the strange: the perfect formula for capturing customer attention in a crowded market.

Direct from the creative mind of Pennsylvania-based artist Gus Fink, the collection includes fanfavourites such as Numb Bunny, Agony Ann, Skellbo, Grim the Stitchy Bear, and Devil Doo. Adding to the collectable appeal, limited edition hand-drawn hang tags, signed and illustrated by Gus Fink himself, will be randomly included with selected units - a detail sure to excite fans and boost repeat purchases. More information on this exclusive insert programme will be revealed soon.

Boldly coloured and packed with personality, these plush toys are perfect for gift shops, lifestyle stores, and trend-forward retailers. The range is supported by a branded display unit, and available with Joe Davies’ ‘little and often’ ordering model. With just £100 carriage paid, they’re as easy to stock as they are to sell!

Call: 0161 975 6300 | Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk | Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk Gifts Today 43

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RETAIL INTERVIEW

Flippin’ eck

A little gift shop… w Sally Davies, owner of Flippin’ eck in the West Yorkshire town of Guiseley, talks to Clare Turner about why she decided to combine her ‘love for nice things with a vision’ What’s your career background?

I grew up in the family business of wholesale and began my working life in my mum and dad’s shop.

I then worked in sales for companies like Haribo and Cadbury.

After my dad passed away 10 years ago, I decided to use my degree and set up my own landscaping business. This soon became very successful, but after eight years I got arthritis in my feet and knees.

So, due to health reasons, I decided it was time to hang up my spade and create something that I felt Guiseley lacked - and combine my love for nice things with a vision.

Why did you decide to move into gift retailing?

I lived near a really cool gift shop that I used to go to all the time. So I thought to myself: “I wonder if this will work in the small West Yorkshire town of Guiseley?” I thought of a gift shop selling unique gifts and cards different to supermarkets and other multiples, but also selling Yorkshire-themed products.

And here we are.

Tell us a bit about your business.

Flippin’ eck opened in October 2021. I saw that a unit in a prime position in Guiseley was ‘to let’, and I went for it. There were charity shops, vape shops, barbers and beauticians all after the same unit. But luckily my landlord wanted a tenant that was going to add something positive to the high street, which wasn’t already here.

It was really scary: Morrisons is right across the road from us, M&S is down the road, and I wasn’t sure if the people of Guiseley and the surrounding areas would want my business, so it was a massive risk.

The business is called Flippin’ eck [a Yorkshire slang phrase] because I wanted something Yorkshire but not something you see a lot. I thought of Ey Up first but settled on Flippin’ eck. My daughter goes to a Catholic school, and when she told everyone her mum was opening a shop called Flippin’ eck she got into trouble for saying it. Not going to lie - I did wonder

if the name was going to cause issues. But I had already sorted branding and logos at this point. So Flippin’ eck it is.

How would you describe your range?

I try to find unique, original pieces - not the standard gifts you find in larger multiples. It never gets boring when I hear people say “you have lovely things”, or “you have a lovely shop”, or “I knew I would find something different here”.

I have loads of suppliers but the mainstays are East of India (which always sells, no matter what time of year - I’ve had people cry in the shop at some of its sentiments), Bath House, PoM, Roka, Freckleface, Wot Ma Like, Radēr, Best Years, and Gisela Graham.

“I’m looking at ways we can diversify or expand our offering” How do you find products?

I try to attend as many trade shows as possible, including Spring Fair, Autumn Fair, Progressive Greetings Live, and Home & Gift - which is easy because it’s pretty much on my doorstep.

But social media helps a lot too, along with visiting other gift shops. If I see things that I think will fit what we’re about, then I nick their ideas!

What’s your selection criteria?

Sometimes finding new stock can be really frustrating.

I try to source products that are different (and,

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… with big ideas dare I say, not tacky) and cool. But I also have to bear in mind what customers may like as well, which can sometimes be tricky.

Quite often I’m surprised when what I think will fly out doesn’t, and vice versa. Price point can sometimes be a factor - which is standard, especially in this day and age where the cost of living is a struggle for a lot of people. But then equally, it doesn’t always matter.

What’s selling well right now?

East of India is always popular, and Fish vases from Rex London are selling well at the moment.

Cabana candles from Paddywax are in too, so we’ll see how they fare for the summer.

“I love the fact that I took a chance on this business; it gives me a sense of pride each day” What are some of your new arrivals?

We have Katherine Sheard Designs in [a range of gifts and homeware with hand-drawn illustrations of animals], which have gone really well, especially for those who love Dachshunds.

How has trading been for you so far this year?

Although some days have seemed particularly quiet, each month so far has been better than the previous year. Fingers crossed that carries on!

What are you most excited about stocking for the next season?

I’m always excited when I have new products coming in and think they will go well. Currently nothing new is on the immediate horizon, but that can change on a daily basis if I

find something. There are also a few trade shows coming up… so, we will see.

Who are your typical customers?

They vary massively. I was really surprised when I initially opened by how many men buy greeting cards and gifts. I don’t have a typical customer, as each person who walks through the door is different.

How do you get the word out there?

I use social media a lot; I’ve even enrolled my 11-year-old daughter to help with videos. In the past, I’ve run competitions to help get the word out by asking followers to like and share posts. A lot of my family and friends also share my posts, which helps massively.

Do you offer any services?

We offer gift wrapping, gift cards, and a card writing service: customers contact us for the occasion they’re shopping for and I send photos of a selection of cards via WhatsApp. They then choose what they would like, tell me the message, and we write and post the card to the recipient.

What’s on your counter/by the till?

I hate clutter so it kills me that I have to have products on the counter! But I need to for the impulse buys. So, along with tissue paper and my iPad (which is the till system), I have a few purchases such as pens, coasters from Wot Ma Like and Rosie Made A Thing, plus personalised Toblerone chocolate bars.

What’s next for your gifts?

I’m looking at ways we can diversify or expand our offering. I try to listen to customers as much as possible and, if I can get products that they’ve asked about, I will - as long as they fit the image I’m trying to create.

What’s next for your business?

I’m quite impulsive, so while I’ve no exciting news right now, this can change very quickly. It has crossed my mind about opening more Flippin’ ecks. My partner lives in Liverpool and I’ve lived there for most of my life. So I’ve thought about opening a branch there as well - though I’m just not sure how scouse Flippin’ eck is…

What do you like most and least about your role?

I love the fact that I took a chance on this business; it gives me a sense of pride each day - and even more so when I’m told how lovely it all is. And I like the new and exciting products that I get to choose.

Plus, I love the friendships I’ve developed while being here, and the banter I have with a lot of customers - and that they know they can give it back. It’s even nicer when they just call in to say hi, or to tell me how certain life events have gone for them during the week.

The thing I like least? Anything that relates to doing accounts, or anything serious!

Do you have a favourite gift?

To be honest, I love everything. Of course I do, because I picked it all!

Top 5 Best Sellers 1. Anything from East of India 2. Joma Jewellery bracelets 3. PoM jewellery 4. Wot Ma Like Yorkshire Mugs 5. Bath House hand cream Gifts Today 45

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03/07/2025 19:11

Preview HOME & GIFT

Let’s celebrate!

To mark the 65th anniversary of Home & Gift, event director David Westbrooke examines how the combination of an impressive exhibitor roster and strong turnout of repeat attendees has helped this exhibition become one of the industry’s most popular events How is the 2025 show shaping up?

Home & Gift 2025 is set to be another bumper year, with an enlarged footprint again (Design Point 1 seeing the most obvious increase, with another whole module of space added!), as well as more product launches, more features, and more networking opportunities - and, of course, this is all against the backdrop of our 65th birthday!

Are many new suppliers exhibiting this year?

The massive growth that’s been so evident over the last couple of years has been driven in large part by huge numbers of brand-new exhibitors who have been flocking to the show. For 2025 we’ll have over 150 companies with us who have never taken part before, from established brands such as Donna May London, Heyyy Cards and Cereria Mollá 1899, through to smaller ones like Puzzle Post, SOEK, and Fatso.

Arguably as important are the lapsed brands returning this year after an absence, including the likes of Rex London, Suck UK, and Le Toy Van. So, all in all, there’s a staggering amount of brands to discover that weren’t here last July!

How is the attendance from retailers looking in terms of numbers?

We’re anticipating a strong turnout again this year, with a 10% increase in registrations targeted and very encouraging signs across key segments. Our VIP attendance continues to grow - we saw an 82% rise in buyers with £1 million-plus budgets last year, and we’re building on that momentum for 2025.

What’s especially exciting is the return of so many repeat attendees: we saw a 7% increase in revisits last year, and our visitor satisfaction hit an all-time high, with an NPS [Net Promoter Score: a customer loyalty and satisfaction metric] of +43. That tells us people love the experience, and we’re confident this year will be no different.

“I challenge anyone not to find their next bestseller at Home & Gift!”

Are there any changes to the format this year that might help retailers plan their visits?

Absolutely. We’ve made a number of changes designed to improve both the planning and the experience. We’ve expanded the show footprint again, with Design Point 1 seeing an additional module added, giving buyers more to explore across the 500-plus brands onsite.

To help with prep, we’ve launched Retail Revealed Online - a brand-new digital content series offering expert insight on trends, PR, AI, tariffs and more - all before you arrive in Harrogate. We’ve also fine-tuned the Indigo Lounge experience for returning VIPs to help them plan their days in a bit of peace and comfort.

Any special show features that we can look forward to?

Plenty! The ever-popular Gift of the Year Showcase returns to Hall B, and we’ll be announcing the People’s Choice Award live during Sunday’s Sundowners.

One of my personal favourites this year is the new Trends Feature, curated by The Better Trends Co. It’s immersive, inspiring, and closely tied in with our Summer Soirée theme. And of course, the social side is as strong as ever. From the Sunday Sundowner Drinks and the famous Show Party on Monday to Tuesday’s Drinks on the Lawn, we’ve got networking covered in style.

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Do you have plans to commemorate the show’s 65th anniversary?

It’s a huge milestone and we’re celebrating it in true Home & Gift style - with even more features, more inspiration, and more ways to connect than ever before. The whole show is themed as a Summer Soirée, with curated experiences designed to reflect the festival’s rich heritage and vibrant personality.

From our celebratory branding and creative direction through to the special edition Trend Installations and expanded Indigo Lounge, everything’s been designed to mark the occasion in style. I can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be a truly unforgettable edition.

Why do you think Home & Gift is so important to retailers?

It’s important for a number of key reasons. First and foremost, the dateline lends itself perfectly to retailers looking to firm up ideas for the all-important Golden Quarter. Buyers can also source across the whole spectrum of products, from suppliers both big and small, from contemporary to traditional - I challenge anyone not to find their next bestseller at Home & Gift!

“I can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be a truly unforgettable edition” And what are the benefits for gift companies?

For exhibitors, it’s their chance to get new products in front of buyers from all across the UK - from London to Scotland and beyond - before anyone else, and at such a key point in the buying cycle.

As well as the obvious advantages of seeing gift exhibitors in one environment, how important is the social side when it comes to the event?

I think they go hand-in-hand. Because of the timing and the setting, it’s a much more relaxed atmosphere than you’ll find at other trade shows - it opens conversations that you just wouldn’t have on a stand alone. We deliberately have social events throughout the show - Sunday Sundowners, the Show Party, Drinks on the Lawn etc - that lend themselves to these sorts of informal interactions, and the opportunities that they create.

What do you believe sets it apart from other trade shows?

It’s fantastic that Home & Gift is so clearly growing every year, and that the exhibitor roster has become a literal who’s who of suppliers. That, combined with the unique atmosphere and all the onsite activations, means it’s a show that people genuinely want to go to.

Where else can you reward yourself for a hard day’s sourcing with a nice cool glass of something on the lawns of a beautiful country hotel, mingling with like-minded contemporaries, and enjoying the sunshine?

The gift companies keep turning up, the retailer response is great. How can the show improve further and grow beyond the levels it has already achieved?

To keep this upward trajectory, we need to make sure that we continue to deliver what people are looking for - on both the buy and sell side. It means keeping our ear to the ground so we can react to changes in the market, and thinking big!

I’m a great believer in the opportunity for trade shows to add a more experiential side to them, and we will continue to invest in ours every year, to give people those ‘wow’ moments that we’ve become known for.

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What do you personally enjoy most about the show?

Besides the beautiful products on display and the gorgeous surroundings, I love all those unexpected handshakes you have over the four days - across the halls in the daytime, and Harrogate itself in the evening. The amount of familiar faces you see and the new connections you make every year is extraordinary - and everyone is always so happy!

How has the show evolved over the decades - and do you have any favourite memories?

My first Home & Gift was back in 2005 and I think the entire industry has evolved since then. While we’ve switched between different hotels and halls over the years as individual product sector growth ebbs and flows, what’s remained a constant is that unique mixture of business and pleasure that Home & Gift’s known for. And we’ve tried to build on that with a more experiential offering recently, with a separate Indigo Lounge for loyal visitors and VIPs, trend features, and the like.

I’ve personally got so many amazing memories from over the years, so it’s hard to single out only one, but a lot stem from those late-night escapades at the Show Party - people really do love to let their hair down!

Finally, any other thoughts you would like to add?

An interesting fact for you: our tenancy for the show is almost 50 days long (versus an average of a week for most others in the industry). It takes a huge amount of time to do things like level the hotel grounds and build those marquees!

What: Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate, North Yorkshire When: July 20-23 Visit: https:// homeandgift.co.uk/

03/07/2025 19:23

Preview HOME & GIFT

Setting the mood Renowned for luxury home fragrance products, Stoneglow’s A/W25 range is filled full of autumnal aromas and festive glam

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he team at Stoneglow has been working hard to bring the festive vibe and much-needed joy to the company’s latest collections. This season’s range is the most extensive collection to date, providing retailers with a comprehensive selection of premium British home fragrance products.

The best-selling Modern Classics range has been expanded with three brand-new autumnal fragrances that encapsulate the spirit of the “spooky” season.

These scents are designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere as the days grow shorter.

In addition, Stoneglow has introduced wax melt bars across all 15 fragrances in the range.

Commercial director Louise Dooley says that wax melts offer a fantastic way for customers to enjoy their favourite scents.

Stoneglow has also unveiled its brand-new Christmas look, and this year’s design features rich jewel tones and elegant gold accents, creating a truly luxurious and joyous atmosphere.

Louise notes that the company’s emphasis is

on offering products with appealing price points, such as cute crackers filled with wax melts (ideal for stocking fillers) and decorative hanging ceramic stars, designed to adorn Christmas trees while gently diffusing fragrance.

And this season sees the inclusion of the Pantone Colour of the Year - Mocha Mousse, a beautifully warm brown - which is featured in the Luna Collection, fragranced with an elegant blend of Black Pepper & Juniper.

The Elements Collection, a consistent favourite among Stoneglow stockists, continues to appeal.

This season, a new ceramic diffuser bottle has been introduced which is reusable; a key selling point. This addition offers a unique level of personalisation for customers, with a build your own pick-n-mix concept.

Despite ongoing global challenges, 2025 has been a productive year for Stoneglow. The brand has achieved a strong sales performance, received an industry award and a highly commended accolade, and celebrated several personal team milestones, including a wedding and an upcoming baby.

Stoneglow has also welcomed two new team members - Hilary and Cheryl from Power Agencies who represent the brand in the South West.

Plus, the company has plans to expand its internal sales and service teams. To support this growth, Stoneglow has made significant investments in upgrading its production lines, ensuring it can meet growing demand for its products, while futureproofing the brand.

Stand: DP1-B05 Call: 020 8595 8878 | Email: trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk Visit: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk 48 Gifts Today

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Preview HOME & GIFT

Turning struggle

into starlight Fox Under The Moon will showcase a heartfelt new book and card range inspired by a journey of hope, healing, and humble beginnings, as founder Stacey McNeill explains

W

hat began with a single greeting card - crafted in a caravan, drawn with hope, and offered to a friend in need - has since grown into a much-loved brand, touching souls and healing hearts worldwide.

Fox Under The Moon, the creation of former teacher turned award-winning authorillustrator Stacey McNeill, is known for its gentle words, whimsical characters, and comforting reflections on the challenges of being human.

This year marks a huge milestone for the brand, as Stacey’s hardback gift book “Fox Under The Moon - Seasons of Comfort and Hope”, launches in October with Quercus (Hachette UK). Stacey says: “Signing a real book deal was definitely a pinch-me moment, and something I’ve dreamed about for as long as I can remember.”

The book is a heartfelt companion for life’s changing seasons, weaving illustrations and reflections into a quiet space of encouragement and calm. Early praise includes Sunday Times best-selling Scottish poet Donna Ashworth’s glowing endorsement: “Warm and wise, like a hug from the universe.”

To celebrate the upcoming release, the Fox Under The Moon team is unveiling a brandnew collection of 16 greeting cards, launching for Summer 2025. Each design features adapted artwork and wording from the book, offering quiet encouragement around themes

like resilience, self-doubt, grief and hope. Buyers at Home & Gift will be among the very first to preview the full 2025 range at Stand B-A29.

In honour of Home & Gift’s 65th anniversary, the husband-and-wife duo at Fox Under The Moon is bringing something extra special to this year’s show. Visitors are invited to pause at the stand, choose one of hundreds of bestselling Fox Under The Moon greeting cards, and write a note to someone who may need a kind word or some thoughtful encouragement. Stacey and her husband Jamie will provide stamps and post the cards at the end of every show day, spreading kindness, one handwritten card at a time.

Public and trade pre-orders for “Fox Under The Moon - Seasons of Comfort and Hope” are available now through Amazon, Waterstones and other major retailers. For trade stockists, there’s no minimum order quantity, free UK postage, and a 40% trade discount available. Interested retailers can visit the stand or contact the Fox Under The Moon team for information on how to order directly from the publisher.

The gentle approach to emotional connection has not gone unnoticed. Fox Under The Moon is the proud winner of multiple Gift of the Year accolades including most recently, the Health & Wellbeing and Accessible Gift category of the 2025 Awards: a testament to its power to uplift those navigating mental health challenges, grief, or self-doubt.

For Stacey, this next chapter is about deepening that purpose. “I started this to help one person feel a little less alone,” she says.

“That will always be at the heart of everything we do… Fox Under The Moon is more than a business. It’s a mission to help people find Call: 07979 600 587 beautiful ways to say the Email: info@foxunderthemoonart.com things that matter.”

Stand: B-A29

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Visit: https://foxunderthemoonart.com/

03/07/2025 19:28

Preview HOME & GIFT

Goodies galore Joe Davies promises that its extensive stand will be packed with fresh ideas, exciting finds and a warm welcome for every customer, both new and familiar

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trusted favourite among independent retailers, Joe Davies offers the flexibility to buy across a broad and diverse range in small, manageable quantities, making it easy to trial new product areas with confidence. Here’s just a little taster of what will be on offer…

Pebble Glass Mini range After the outstanding success of the original collection, Joe Davies is proud to unveil the Pebble Glass Mini range: a charming series of compact framed designs, perfect for gifting occasions throughout the year.

Each mini frame features a heartwarming scene crafted from smooth coloured glass pebbles, paired with delicate illustrations and thoughtful messages. With themed options for birthdays, friendship, and Christmas, these petite keepsakes are bursting with sentiment in a spacesaving format.

A great addition for independent retailers and garden centres looking to offer something heartfelt and affordable, their smaller size makes them ideal impulse gifts or shelf fillers, suitable for till points, display units or gifting zones.

Equilibrium Monochrome Collection The Equilibrium Collection is always a firm favourite on the Joe Davies stand, and new for A/W25 is the striking and sophisticated Equilibrium Monochrome Collection. Featuring an elegant selection of necklaces, bracelets, bangles and earrings, each piece is intricately crafted with contrasting clear and black gemstones to create a bold, impactful look.

Plated in real silver and gold, this stylish collection offers a luxurious finish that will elevate any outfit, day or night.

Designed for those who appreciate effortless sophistication, the contrast of light and dark stones adds instant glamour with a refined touch.

Equilibrium for Men Collection The Equilibrium Collection of fashion accessories is a musthave for many retailers and features many of Joe Davies’ hottest selling lines for the winter season, including the Equilibrium for Men collection.

This thoughtfully curated range features a wide choice of scarves, from classic designs with a luxurious feel, to more

modern styles with on-trend fringing and colour palettes that span traditional neutrals to rich, contemporary hues.

Complementing the scarves is a selection of gloves, including knitted, fleece and waterproof options. Pair them with cosy chenille or classic beanie hats, or opt for the smartly co-ordinated scarf and gloves sets.

Presented in premium Equilibrium gift boxing, these accessories are not only practical but make stand-out Christmas gifts that look and feel extra special: perfect for the modern man who appreciates comfort, quality and effortless style.

Hedgerow Flower Planter range Looking to stock gifts that combine beauty and practicality?

The Hedgerow Flower Planter range is the perfect choice.

With delicately stamped wildflower motifs in calming greens and bold indigos, each ceramic piece is finished with a classic crackle glaze for a charming, handcrafted touch.

Available in a range of sizes, they make great gifts for garden lovers, home decorators, or anyone who appreciates nature-inspired design. Whether used for houseplants, herbs, or dried arrangements, these planters are as functional as they are beautiful.

A thoughtful gift that lasts well beyond the occasion, the planters are ideal for Mother’s Day, birthdays, housewarmings, or “just because”, and are a popular pick for independent gift shops and garden centres.

Joe Davies’ ‘little and often’ ordering quantities and low minimum order of just £100 for free nationwide delivery takes the pressure out of buying, letting you top up as needed. Whether you’re planning your Christmas range or looking for the next bestseller, this is a stand you shouldn’t miss. The team looks forward to seeing you there!

Stand B-A02 Call: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

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03/07/2025 19:29

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Preview HOME & GIFT

Game changers Catering for the whole family, from preschool through to adult, University Games and Lagoon will have a comprehensive product line-up on display at Home & Gift

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rom licensed preschool and children to family and adult games, and puzzles ranging from 100 to 4,000 pieces, there is plenty of fun and entertainment to be found on the University Games and Lagoon stands this year: from the new Birthday in a Box and How Things Work series, to the extensive Learning Journey and Project Genius ranges, and much more.

Lagoon’s Birthday in a Box range is billed as the ultimate birthday gift.

Available for milestone ages 18 to 60, as well as a general Happy Birthday format, the range contains everything needed to make a friend’s or family member’s birthday perfect. A Birthday Trivia Card Game, a Booklet of Birthday Fun Facts, a Happy Birthday Badge, a Cake Topper, and Confetti are just some of the goodies included.

The National Geographic How Things Work range is a new series designed with creative play in mind. These beautifully styled 3D puzzles use card and other materials to create a ‘build and play’ range of STEAM science toys. The eight-line range includes a Periscope, Monocular, Hydraulic Lift, Blast Off Rocket, and Parachute Launcher, which all come with an instruction booklet that outlines fun facts about the unique build, to help children understand How Things Work.

Everyone loves a good old pub game, and the new Lagoon collection of Classic Pub Games is certain to hit the mark. With a Card Game Compendium of more than 50 different card games, a Dice Game Compendium, and a Pub Coasters Game, this range offers great entertainment - whether played at home with the family or at the pub with friends!

The Lagoon stand will also showcase an extensive seasonal collection of games and puzzles which includes CDUs of Christmas tabletop games as well as festive games such as Oh What Fun, Cryptic Christmas and Down the Chimney, that make great gifts for the whole family.

University Games’ stand will focus on the new Bullseye game and Mini Game, the family strategy game Buying Time and, for the children, Easy Cheesy featuring Nibbles the Mouse. Also on display will be its bestselling preschool and children’s ranges of games and puzzles, headed up by the core four: What’s Up, Don’t Say It, Charades for Kids and Yes! No! These will be alongside the extensive offer of licensed ranges that include Roald Dahl, Dog Man, The World of David Walliams, and The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The Learning Journey range of games, puzzles and construction toys will also include the new Lift and Learn and Lift and Sort puzzles that are now available!

Stands: DP1-D81 and DP1-D91 Call: 020 7254 0100 Email: sales@ugames.uk.com Visit: www.university-games.co.uk 54 Gifts Today

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5 1

3

Steps to Christmas

Create a focal point with a candle or diffuser

2

Add ambiance with the soft glow of a candle

Add botanical wax melt to infuse your surroundings

4

Hang a ceramic diffuser and spritz with your favourite scent

5

S Share the gift of fragrance o

FROSTED WOODS Pear | Patchouli | Musk Lemon zest and green pear add a touch of sparkle to a winter floral with notes of white jasmine, iris and violet.

Cashmere musk, patchouli, amber, vetivert and a whisper of vanilla give a powdery warmth to the base.

Visit us at Harrogate Home & Gift Stand No. DP1-B05 020 8595 8878 stoneglowcandles.co.uk trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

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Preview HOME & GIFT

Adding joy to

the everyday Hannah Dale, creative director and co-founder of Wrendale Designs, talks to Gifts Today about her company’s values and its mission to create beautiful nature-inspired gifts and homeware Tell us about Wrendale Designs.

Wrendale Designs was founded in 2012 when I designed a range of greeting cards featuring my watercolour paintings of wildlife. The designs immediately seemed to resonate with people, and what started as a small collection of greeting cards quickly blossomed into a lifestyle brand known for its distinctive artwork and quality products.

Since then we’ve expanded overseas, won numerous awards including a King’s Award and a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, and worked hard to embody our brand values, culminating in our B Corp certification and our work to restore nature through our rewilding project: Wild Wrendale.

suppliers. Being a part of the Wrendale family - as a customer or retailer allows people to become part of this story as well.

We also pride ourselves on our attention to detail, customer service, and the ability to translate our artwork across a broad range of products without compromising on quality or style. Our brand carries a blend of countryside charm and modern appeal that resonates with a wide audience.

The company has been trading successfully for many years.

What factors do you attribute to this growth?

I think that one thing that has helped Wrendale to be successful is our commitment to our values. Even from the very first greeting card I designed, I wanted our products to stand out from the crowd due to their exceptional quality, thoughtful detail, and sustainable choices.

These are still core to our values as a company and influence every decision we make, from product design through to customer service, where we always strive to deliver excellence. I hope that this consistency has helped us to build trust and long-lasting relationships with our retailers.

There’s no doubt that the retail environment is challenging, but so far 2025 is shaping up to be another good year - marked by continued international growth, new product launches, and strong feedback from both new and longstanding customers.

Any new launches?

Our July launch is here and we think it’s one of our best yet! After several years in development, our new cosmetic bags and cushions feature rich colours, exquisite textures and beautifully detailed embroidery.

Our signature stationery collection adds an element of elevated luxury to the range with a sophisticated colour palette, paired with some of our bestselling designs and gorgeous detail. Our plush collection sees three new characters, all made with the usual care and attention to detail and character that the collection is well known for.

And pet-loving customers will love our new pet bowls. The new and improved dog and cat designs feature a variety of illustrations and a dishwasher-safe bowl that can be taken out for easy cleaning. As always, there are also new greeting cards in our range, and new designs across popular ranges such as bookmarks, foldable shoppers, and other stationery lines.

What’s your company’s mission?

To create beautiful, nature-inspired gifts and homeware, adding joy to the everyday, and supporting nature recovery in the process. It’s important to us that we don’t just give back to nature ourselves - we want to inspire others to care for the environment too. It’s also important to us that we support our community, creating opportunities, nurturing talent, and growing the Wrendale family.

What sets you apart from other gift suppliers?

Our hand-painted illustrations are at the heart of everything we do, and it’s that artistic integrity that really sets us apart. The designs are inspired by the natural world, and our commitment to nature restoration through Wild Wrendale is something completely unique compared with other

What products do you offer?

A wide selection of gifts and homeware, all featuring our award-winning designs - from greeting cards and stationery to kitchen textiles, tins, calendars, home accessories, and of course, our popular plush collection.

Finally, how do you support your retailers?

We offer a range of support including display materials, in-store merchandising tools and other marketing support. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and building strong, collaborative relationships to help our customers grow. We have a lot of loyal customers who have stocked Wrendale from the very beginning and Call: 01652 680253 it’s so important Email: info@wrendaledesigns.co.uk to us to maintain those Visit: www.wrendaledesigns.co.uk relationships.

Stand: DP1-C111

56 Gifts Today

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03/07/2025 19:30

Preview HOME & GIFT

A new direction Billed as a new classic, Belly Button Designs is excited to launch the Signature collection of giftware at Home & Gift. Creative director Rachel Hare tells us more

M

ore than a collection, Signature is the heart of the Belly Button giftware brand and celebrates the design heritage of the company - and reflects a new direction for the brand.

Encompassing simplicity and style, the designs are elegant and simple, with clean lines and a subtle colour palette which incorporates gentle gold foiling.

Belly Button is synonymous with design and has triumphed in the greeting card and giftwrap sector for more than 30 years. After a decision to expand the business into gifting eight years ago, creative director Rachel Hare is excited to see all the hard work over the past few years coming together.

She says: “The Signature collection really encompasses the heart of design at Belly Button, and has been inspired by some of the earliest drawings I did when I launched my card business in 1994! Everything we create is hand-drawn in-house, and I’m so proud to be launching the ranges at this year’s Home & Gift.”

Featuring a large collection of ceramics, stunning glassware, home fragrance, and jewellery, the ranges give retailers the opportunity to select from product categories or buy into the whole story - enabling strong merchandising and selling opportunities.

Belly Button has two shops of its own where the products are showcased, and with this experience in retail supporting the product development, the company has ambitions to only grow further with its gifting collections.

Stand: DP1-A62 Call: 0161 902 0200 Email: michelle@bellybuttondesigns.com Visit: www.bellybutton.gifts | www.bellybutton.cards

58 Gifts Today

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Preview HOME & GIFT

Making people smile Co-founder/director Diane Hannah explains how Herdy built a lovable British brand from the heart of the Lakes

H

erdy is more than just a cute face. It’s a brand that’s brought joy to millions through its charming, character-led design, inspired by the Herdwick sheep of the Lake District.

Founded in 2007 by designers Diane and Spencer Hannah, Herdy started with a simple mission: to offer responsibly made, high-quality gifts to visitors and locals alike. Today, it’s a multi-million-pound business, with over 500 SKUs spanning homeware, accessories, toys, and gifts, still driven by a singular purpose: to make people smile.

From its roots in the Cumbrian market town of Kendal [often called the Gateway to the Lake District due to its location near the Lake District National Park], the selffunded business has grown into a household name in the region and far beyond.

“Design is our background and remains our passion,” says co-founder/director Diane. That passion is evident in every product: all designed in-house with Scandinavian-inspired simplicity and colour, fused with the lovable Herdy character.

Herdy now retails through five brand-owned stores, a thriving e-commerce platform, and more than 200 UK wholesale partners. It also exports to the US, Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Despite the growth, Herdy hasn’t lost sight of its values. Around 40% of its range is made in the UK, with ethical sourcing a core principle. Diane says: “We visit every factory we work with.

It’s essential we know how they operate and that they reflect our standards.”

The bond with independent retailers remains strong.

“They’ve been instrumental in building the Herdy brand,” Diane notes. Herdy supports its partners with POS, display units, merchandising advice, and social media exposure to its 120,000-plus followers.

New product categories continue to expand Herdy’s reach. Recent licensing deals include wall art with The Art Group, and floor rugs with Hug Rug. Meanwhile, the brand’s playful spirit is evolving in other creative directions.

Alongside picnicware, a range of super-sized plush, new mugs, and more, a home fragrance collection will debut

at Home & Gift. It features a hand-poured candle, a room diffuser, and a wax melt burner - all presented in elegant ceramic vessels that reflect Herdy’s signature style. With a sleek yet playful design, the range offers a sophisticated aesthetic with a whimsical twist.

At the heart of the collection is the signature ‘Ewe’ fragrance, blending juniper and cedarwood with earthy oak moss and a hint of sea salt to take you on an aromatic journey through the Lake District. The scent captures the tranquillity of dewy woodlands, rugged fells, and coastal breezes. This distinctive combination evokes the landscapes of the Lakes, and transforms any space into a peaceful retreat inspired by nature. Perfect for when you need a bit of ‘ewe’ time!

There’s also a sense of fun in the brand’s regional characters, like Herdy McHerdy for Scotland, and the newly introduced Welsh Herdy, proving Herdy’s potential to charm across cultures.

So what’s next? “We’re working on some exciting new projects,” Diane teases. “It’s top secret for now, but we’ll be revealing more soon.” Herdy has managed to turn a local icon into a lovable brand with global appeal. Behind every product is a smile, a story, and a celebration of what makes the Lake District - and its famous sheep - so special.

And from day one, Herdy has committed to supporting its community. A percentage of profits is donated annually to the Herdy Fund, managed by the Cumbria Community Foundation. The Fund supports local projects, rural initiatives, and upland fell farmers who care for the Herdwick sheep. “Giving back is integral to the Herdy story,” says Diane. To date, the brand has donated over £200,000, helping protect the region that inspires everything they do.

Stand: DP1-A61 Call: 01539 739202 Email: sales@herdy.co.uk Visit: www.herdy.co.uk

60 Gifts Today

H&GFocus Profiles:A-Zs.indd 9

03/07/2025 19:31

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Contemporary Eyewear

We’re Exhibiting!

Come find us on Stand A-B16, 20-23 July

*RRP’s from £15

Preview HOME & GIFT

Big move, big ideas Best Kept Secrets

It’s been a busy and exciting time for Best Kept Secrets, which recently made the leap into a significantly larger premises, with a new factory space that brings all aspects of its growing business under one roof.

Founder Vanessa Curry says: “We’d outgrown our old units, which were split across six smaller spaces. This move gives us the room to expand our production, develop new product lines, and streamline our operations - all while giving us the flexibility to grow.”

The increased capacity couldn’t come at a better time. The company continues to see fantastic success with its Just Because range, known for its colourful, thoughtful designs and giftable price point.

Building on this momentum, Best Kept Secrets will launch a brand-new addition at Home & Gift: Just Because Duos. These beautifully packaged gift bags pair a themed tin candle with a complementary sentiment, such as “Happy Birthday” and “Make a Wish”. With a magic £10 price point, they’re an ideal grab-and-go gift for retailers and consumers alike.

Also on show will be the ever-popular Three Light Box - affectionately referred to by customers as “the red one” - which helped inspire the new Duo format. “Our customers know what they like - they literally run up to us at shows saying, ‘we’ll take 10!’” Vanessa laughs. “It just made sense to expand that concept into something new.”

Best Kept Secrets is looking forward to welcoming visitors to Stand A-A16 at Home & Gift. “It’s our favourite show, “ says Vanessa. “It’s relaxed, welcoming, and a great opportunity to catch up with our customers face-to-face.”

Silver star

Stand: A-A16 Call: 01670 512222 Email: info@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Visit: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Sea Gems

Sea Gems is an established family-run jewellery company with more than 40 years of experience.

Proudly designed in Cornwall, it has crafted silver jewellery and gift collections that capture the essence of the local landscape, nature, wildlife, and its Celtic heritage.

The Silver Origins brand (pictured) features contemporary sterling silver with an undeniably handcrafted charm. Inspired by Sea Gems’ roots, you will discover striking organic designs, intricate beachcomber shells, botanical and wildlife designs, as well as fun, whimsical motifs.

The Celtic Lands silver collection celebrates Sea Gems’ rich heritage with timeless motifs and elaborate knotwork. Plus, the art of fine enamelling, with its fusion of vibrant colours, creates truly unique jewellery and gifts. Inspired gift ranges include pens, bookmarks, compact mirrors, and pillboxes.

Sea Gems offers eco-friendly packaging and POS, with easy online ordering and friendly, helpful customer Call: 01736 335840 support - along Email: sales@seagems.co.uk with a fast and Visit: www.seagems.co.uk reliable service.

Stand: C-A27

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04/07/2025 12:56

Home & Gift stand DP1 C77

www.weloveseasons.com – sales@weloveseasons.com

Preview HOME & GIFT

Home fragrance done differently Ella And I Ella And I is a female-founded home fragrance brand making waves with its standout gel wax melts. Launched in 2021 and hand-poured in the Cheshire market town of Macclesfield, the brand has earned a reputation for delivering something different to today’s fragrance lover.

At the heart of the collection are Ella And I’s best-selling gel melts. These clever melts are not only cleaner burning but also peelable and reusable, offering flexibility for scent lovers. Once cooled, the gel lifts cleanly from the burner without any mess.

Customers can swap out fragrances as often as they like, reuse partially melted gels, or save favourites for later. It’s a simple and waste-reducing solution that fits busy, fragrance-loving lifestyles.

Beyond gel melts, the brand offers a range of diffusers and room sprays, designed with the same style and quality.

With more than 100,000 happy customers, Ella And I has built a loyal community drawn to its stylish scents, innovative concept, and design-led appeal. Thanks to low minimum orders, distinctive branding, and a strong customer following, Ella And I is a great addition for gift shops, lifestyle retailers, and garden centres seeking something functional and on trend.

As interest in gel melts grows, Ella And I is proud Email: info@ellaandi.co.uk to offer an innovative and design-led collection that captivates fragrance lovers.

Visit: www.ellaandi.co.uk

Stand: DP1-B96

Fashion focus Remaldi

The Remaldi eyewear brand is returning to Home & Gift to showcase its latest collection. The A/W25 range delivers on style, sustainability, and seasonal colour, making reading glasses a true fashion accessory.

With more than 25 new designs, Remaldi embraces the catwalk’s key influences of rich autumnal tones of amber, yellow, browns, olives, flame red and purples, paired with on-trend frame silhouettes. Many styles are crafted using recycled materials, saving plastics from landfill while keeping fashion credentials firmly intact.

The A/W25 collection offers something for every customer - whether it’s bold statement frames or the 1990s revival of slim ovals and sleek rectangles. Key launches include Annecy Electric in vibrant fuchsia, Stamford Cherry (updating last year’s bestselling Burgundy), chic oval Paris frames in dusk and tortoise, York Sage and unisex style Bamberg Olive, reflecting nature’s continuing influence. The transparent Barnes Almond aviator adds a fresh modern edge.

Beyond eyewear, Remaldi offers a first look at new S/S26 glasses chains, multifunctional glasses wraps that protect frames without bulk, glossy Snozzle spec holders, and an expanded gifting range with RFID wallets in animal prints, and updated assorted Pattern and Retro counter display boxes.

For fashion buyers seeking trend-led, commercial eyewear Call: 0113 239 1400. and gifting, Remaldi at Stand A-B16 is not to be missed.

Email: sales@opticaid.net The team is looking forward to Visit: www.opticaid.net meeting you!

Stand: A-B16

64 Gifts Today

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03/07/2025 19:35

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Ginger Betty

Ginger Betty is excited to show its new card collections, brand-new Christmas keepsakes, and popular wooden pin badges at Home & Gift.

The new cards reflect customers’ requests, so the company has created a children’s age range featuring debossed numbers, a new female relations range, new Christmas cards, and a collection of Christmas keepsakes.

The Christmas keepsake cards can be given as a ‘personal thank you’ to people you spend Christmas with, and send that extra bit of love in addition to a Christmas card. They are perfect to keep all year round in a purse or wallet, as a little reminder of the lovely Christmas you spent together.

Ginger Betty is also showing its new wooden pin badge CDU spinner for the first time at Home & Gift, which holds Call: 01706 557285 24 pin badge designs. Each pin badge is Email: hello@gingerbetty.co.uk fixed to a backing card, which has a small Visit: www.gingerbetty.co.uk message. Each one retails at £3.99 and all are made in the UK.

Stand: DP1-D46

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03/07/2025 19:36

Preview HOME & GIFT

Seasonal innovations Cereria Mollá 1899

Spanish luxury home fragrance brand Cereria Mollá 1899 will unveil a trio of new launches for the upcoming A/W season.

The new Wax Melt Tin Discovery Set is an innovative flameless format, offering an effortless olfactory journey.

Each melt is crafted using premium natural ingredients and housed in practical tins, designed to pair with the Cereria Mollá Wax Melt Burner. The set includes four bestselling fragrances: Bergamotto di Calabria, Santal & Tonka, Mediterranean Blue, and Black Orchid & Lily.

For Christmas 2025, Cereria Mollá 1899 will debut its Feliz Navidad festive collection: a celebration of Spanish holiday traditions brought to life through fragrance. It includes a Home Fragrance Cracker, featuring a selection of the brand’s bestselling scents and formats, making it a standout stocking filler or table gift; and a Festive Gift Set, headlined by two limited edition fragrances created exclusively for the season.

These are Spiced Valencian Orange, which is a warm, zesty blend of citrus, clove, and cinnamon; and Andalusian Nutmeg & Ginger, which is a rich, comforting scent combining nutmeg, ginger, and creamy woods Adding to the seasonal offering, Cereria Mollá 1899 will introduce a limited edition fragrance for A/W25: Oud & Leather.

Joining the brand’s collection of luxury candles and diffusers, this scent layers clove, frankincense, amber gris, oud, and aged leather, delivering a sophisticated, immersive sensory experience, perfectly suited to the autumnal months.

Stand: Hall A-A21 Call: (+34) 96 290 10 96 Email: info@CM1899UK.com Visit: www.cereriamolla.com

Toast of the town Toasted Crumpet

Toasted Crumpet will showcase three new gift and card collections: Mon Cheri, Woodland Treasures, and Bows & Berries.

Mon Chéri is a sweet and stylish range of gifts, stationery, and cards inspired by the juiciest moments of summer and the rich tones of early autumn. At its heart is the iconic cherry, reimagined in fresh, painterly prints and playful palettes that feel both nostalgic and new.

While the collection bursts with summer charm - think ripe cherries, soft pastels, and hints of vintage ice cream parlours - subtle nods to blackberries and blackcurrants add depth, making it the perfect bridge into autumn. The season-spanning vibe is effortlessly chic, making these designs ideal for gifting or keeping.

Woodland Treasures is a range of mushroom-themed gifts and cards inspired by the beauty of the forest. With mushrooms continuing to be a key design trend, this whimsical range brings together delicate toadstools, foraged herbs, and charming woodland flowers 66 Gifts Today

H&GFocus Profiles:A-Zs.indd 13

to create something very special: every design feels like a little treasure found on a woodland walk. At least £14,000 will be given to the National Trust through the sale of this range, helping to look after places like the woodlands that inspired this collection.

Bows & Berries is a range of 20 Christmas cards and gifts designed to bring elegance and festive charm to Yuletide. Featuring hand-painted watercolour illustrations, this collection embraces a feminine and on-trend aesthetic, with luxurious bows, classic red colourways, and delicate berry details woven throughout each design. With its blend of traditional winter botanicals and contemporary bows, Bows & Berries is the perfect choice for those who love pretty, festive cards, gifts and stationery, with a Call: 01372 383436 touch of sophistication.

Stand: DP1-B11

Email: jo@toastedcrumpet.co.uk Visit: www.toastedcrumpet.co.uk

03/07/2025 19:37

Exciting times ahead The Wheat Bag Company

The Wheat Bag Company managing director Sally Moore says: “We’ve had an exciting and busy start to the year since January, focusing on product development and our new website. Our new Microwavable Beddy Buddies arrived earlier in the year and have been a tremendous success with our existing customers and new ones. Currently we have eight designs, and more are coming soon. These cute cuddly characters come filled with a removable bag of English flaxseed, which can be heated in the microwave for warmth and soothing relaxation.

“We’ve also introduced some new fabric designs which were chosen by some younger members of our team and have been a massive hit - and some new styles of Wheat Bags including our Neck and Shoulder Wheat Wrap and Back Wraps. These are perfect for targeting specific areas of the body and helping to relieve tension and soothe aches and pains. They are available in a range of our fabric designs including some of our new ones.

“We’re looking forward to showcasing all our products on stand DP1-B58 and welcoming our customers.”

Stand: DP1-B58 Call: 01747 840 500 Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk Visit: www.thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Colour splash Miss Milly

With a huge number of stunning new jewellery designs, beautiful scarves and an increased range of recycled leather bags, the Miss Milly stand will be full of colour and choice. This season sees the addition of a capsule collection of handcrafted velvet pouches with intricate, beaded décor based on the brand’s popular magnetic brooches, of which there are some fantastic new designs coming.

The new seasonal jewellery palette includes fuchsia and lime green to uplift darker colours. Dark reds and purples are very prominent, lending an elegant touch to the collection. And you’ll find statement pieces, magnetic clasps and adjustable length necklaces.

Three larger handbags will be launched in response to customer demand. The most impactful of these is a symphony of colourful, chevron stripes Call: 01905 622509 and will turn heads everywhere! In fact, Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk there will be 14 new styles available Visit: www.missmilly.co.uk this season, saving more leather scraps from going to landfill.

Stand: DP3-B07

Seasonal style We Love Seasons

We Love Seasons is returning to Home & Gift, bringing with it a delightful showcase of new autumnal treasures, alongside the first Home & Gift appearance of its Easter 2026 collection. Known for distinctive, nature-inspired themes and timeless Nordic décor, the company continues to capture the magic of each time of year with thoughtful design and carefully crafted products.

This year’s autumn range celebrates warm tones, rustic textures, and a cosy aesthetic that effortlessly transitions homes into the harvest season. Expect charming pumpkins in earthy and neutral tones that blend beautifully with nature.

The Easter 2026 range will feature soft pastels, playful characters, and timeless traditions - reimagined in a gentle, contemporary style. The collection includes ceramic bunnies designed to be kept and cherished year after year, becoming part of family traditions.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your seasonal Call: 07895840887 offering or plan ahead for Email: sales@weloveseasons.com key retail moments, We Love Seasons’ stand is a Visit: www.weloveseasons.com must-visit.

Stand: DP1-C77

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03/07/2025 19:39

Gifts Today

SHOP TALK

Independent retailers reveal their Home & Gift experiences and expectations, and share some surprise finds and tips on must-visit stands, to help your maximise your visit to the show Sally Davies Owner Flippin’ eck Guiseley West Yorkshire What do you enjoy about the show?

I really enjoy looking for new and exciting products for the shop.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/ products?

Not really, just newness to help the shop look fresh and exciting for customers.

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

I don’t really have any. I will walk around them all, hoping to find some gorgeous new products.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

I’ve only been twice, and I found a lot of products during my first visit as it was a trip to source suppliers because I was just opening up, so that was really exciting. This time I hope companies will have something different. I don’t know what, but I’ll know it when I see it!

Soni Ahmed & Samantha Rose Co-Founders Maia Gifts Glasgow Scotland What do you enjoy about the show?

The atmosphere at Home & Gift is unique. The environment and layout make for a very relaxed and enjoyable show experience.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

We pretty much cover most of the categories on display, from jewellery and fashion to greeting cards, plush, and more. We use the show as a prep for Christmas, so we’re looking to add extra men’s gifts, winter fashion, games and novelty gifts.

Have you found many suppliers here in the past? If so, any success stories?

We’ve always been successful at sourcing new exciting products here, mainly from existing suppliers that are launching their Autumn/Winter collections. But there’s always a few new gems too.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

Often the weather is better than the February shows, so it feels less intense when you can sit outdoors and have a break between hall visits. The atmosphere is always friendly, and the location creates a lovely ambience.

Caroline Ranwell Shopkeeper/ Buyer Hugs & Kisses Tettenhall West Midlands What do you enjoy about the show?

I love the Harrogate show. It’s a great few days away in a beautiful location, where I can visit many of my suppliers and see their amazing products - which is much better when placing orders.

We always manage to find new gift suppliers at this show which is so important; we are based in a small village and really need to keep our stock fresh and interesting.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

I will be mainly looking for new gifts, jewellery, and clothing.

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

My must-visit list includes Lola Design, which has gorgeous cards with some really lovely contrasting gifts, which are great for everyday and also would be great for Christmas presents. And Best Kept Secrets: when buying beautiful candles it’s so much better to be able to smell them!

Also on my list is Envy Jewellery. This lovely company always has some gorgeous new designs.

Again, it’s much easier to buy when you can see the products and also try them on! Finally, MSH: this company sells a lovely range of clothing, scarves and accessories. Once again, it’s much easier to buy at the show where you can see and feel the items.

Have you found many suppliers here in the past? If so, any success stories?

I always seem to find something new at the show.

In the past, I’ve found great jewellery companies and companies selling handbags, scarves and accessories.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

It must be my first visit to Home & Gift back in 1989 when I had just started a new job as a sales rep. I had been with the company for less than a month, and off to Harrogate we went. It seemed such a long way, and it was so hot! We had a great time working and socialising, and I remember thinking what a lovely friendly industry it was.

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03/07/2025 19:41

Bill Nettelfield Owner Bill & Berts Colchester Essex What do you enjoy about the show?

The best part of Harrogate is the relaxed atmosphere, and the social side after the show closes for the day.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

We go to every show with an open mind, hoping to come across unexpected winners.

The smaller stands are often where new lines are to be found.

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

Wrendale Designs is showing this year, so it will be great to catch up with the team.

Have you found many suppliers here in the past? If so, any success stories?

One of the standouts was in our first year when we ordered Swole Panda socks.

It’s a great company with great service.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

My best memories would probably have happened in a bar somewhere!

Natalie Yates

Priya AuroraCrowe Buyer Lark London 20 stores across London What do you enjoy about the show?

The fantastic atmosphere and location.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

No, we will be looking at them all!

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

Designworks Collective, The Art File, and F.Y.G. What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

The after-show parties!

Retail Director Gifts From Handpicked Online retailer What do you enjoy about the show?

I love the location, the vibe, and the smaller marques. And I like being able to interact more with suppliers, as Home & Gift is not as overwhelming and busy as other shows.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

I will be looking for new trends and lines to add to our Birthday and Christmas gift collections.

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

Alice Wheeler London, Kikkerland, Wrendale Designs, and Hairy Coo. Have you found many suppliers here in the past?

If so, any success stories?

We work with over 70 suppliers so it’s difficult to pinpoint where we located each one. We would definitely have created accounts at Harrogate though, due to the friendliness and positive atmosphere of the show.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

I remember it being really warm, and a brass band playing while I was drinking sangria on the lawn, and putting the gift world to rights with the owner of one of our brands. We then went for a lovely Thai meal in Harrogate, as it was too nice a day to head straight home after the show.

Nicola Hibon Jackson Founder The Voewood Blackheath South East London What do you enjoy about the show?

The relaxed atmosphere and the lovely location.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/ products?

I’ll be on the search for mid-priced gifts for men.

Gifts Today 69

ShopTalkJuly.indd 2

03/07/2025 19:41

Gifts Today

SHOP TALK Rachel Buckley Director RBUK Rochdale Greater Manchester What do you enjoy about the show?

Home & Gift was the first trade show I attended. As it was my first buying experience, it will always be a special place to me. It’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the camaraderie between exhibitors and visitors makes it a joy to visit.

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

For the last few years I have attended with no set plans, and no particular products to source or stands to visit. I do carry a list of the companies we work with and their locations at the show. But I love just walking around, and hopefully finding something new for us.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

A favourite memory of mine would be the BBQ lunches - steak or chicken - and a delicious summer salad. A good day out, with a side of work!

Paddy Morton Manager Strickland and Holt Yarm North Yorkshire What do you enjoy about the show?

It’s local to us, which is great. I love seeing the new product, and I like the relaxed vibe, the manageable size, and the layout of the whole show. It’s by far my favourite gift fair.

Which stand is on your ‘must-visit’ list?

Joe Davies.

Have you found many suppliers here in the past? If so, any success stories?

We find new products and new suppliers every year! Heaven Scent was a good recent supplier for us, with some fantastic candles and its incense stick display stand - which has been a great seller. Traditionally we only stocked a single-boxed incense stick, but we now have a colourful display of indulgent and modern fragrances that has surprised us with its mainstream popularity.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

Having a G&T in the sun at the end of a good day, while listening to a live jazz band.

Laura Cooper Owner Handmade Design Ashbourne Derbyshire What do you enjoy about the show?

I love the relaxed vibe - and Harrogate is such a beautiful setting. The venue feels more like a summer escape than a trade show!

Will you be looking for any particular categories/products?

Yes, mainly new jewellery makers and seasonal Christmas stock. I’m always on the lookout for unique pieces to add to the shop.

Which stands are on your ‘must-visit’ list?

Definitely Bullion Chocolate - they were a great find last year. I’m also looking forward to a catch-up with Wild-Olive and My Bags of Stuff.

Have you found many suppliers here in the past? If so, any success stories?

Last year was actually my first visit and I discovered some amazing brands. Bullion Chocolate and Clay and Jewel were real standouts and have become firm favourites in the shop.

What’s your favourite Home & Gift memory?

Honestly? The whole experience last year! It was my first time and I was blown away by how fun and well curated the show was.

70 Gifts Today

ShopTalkJuly.indd 3

03/07/2025 19:42

OPINION

Diary of a gift shop Sarah Halsall, owner of Hand Picked by Henrietta in the Cheshire town of Poynton, talks about time management, charity treks, and the importance of taking a break

W

e all have the same 24 hours. How we prioritise our time has been at the forefront of my mind this last month.

My usual routine has been turned upside down to support my sister while her husband has been in hospital. From the outside, the shop has run smoothly, apart from one day when we opened late. Customers really wouldn’t have been aware though.

My staff have been brilliant. They’ve stepped up and taken care of some of my ‘job list’. And using a social media scheduling tool has been a great way of keeping up with posts.

Top 5 Best Sellers 1. Elite Tins Emma Bridgewater Spectacle Cases filled with fudge 2. Stone Marketing Legami Erasable Pens 3. Global Journey Gifts Gemstone Jewellery 4. Lovely Paper Stuff Sorry You’ve Been So Eel Card 5. Fox Under The Moon A Hug in a Book

I’ve also used a VA [Virtual Assistant] to set up some new tech stuff. It’s saved me hours of messing around trying to create automated email chains. I’ve learned that time is precious. So accept your strengths, stick to the jobs you’re best at, and delegate the jobs you dislike. It’s totally worth every penny paying someone else to do them.

But my new situation has made me question what would happen if I were in my brother-in-law’s shoes, and taken away from the shop and my income. We do have a small backup cash flow that a member of staff has access to, but that wouldn’t last long.

I used to network with a local insurance broker who provides critical illness and income protection insurance especially for the self-employed. I’m thinking I need to get something in place…

While non-vital tasks have been cancelled, I do try to visit the gym three times a week, and always feel better once a session is complete. I’ve been going since January, because taking care of my own physical health was something I hadn’t previously prioritised.

And, with the idea of walking more, I signed up to the [greeting cards and gifts buying group] Cardgains’ Charity Challenge Fox Under The Moon 2025. The event, which took place on June 26, was a 25mile walk through and around Birmingham.

I’ve never done it before, so hopefully my feet cope!

This year the

team is raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK and I’d definitely appreciate any donations to this very worthy cause. Here’s the link to my Just Giving page if you’d like to sponsor my effort: https://www. justgiving.com/page/ handpickedbyhenrietta.

So remember: work hard - play hard. I hope you’ve booked a holiday or taken a break. If not, this is your reminder to do so - before golden quarter busyness begins! In the meantime, I’m looking forward to catching up with suppliers and retailers at Home & Gift. I’ll be attending the show on Sunday and Monday. I hope to see you there!

Elite Tins

Stone Marketing

Global Journey Gifts

Lovely Paper Stuff

Gifts Today 71

Diary of a Gift Shop.indd 2

03/07/2025 19:51

Trade talk Home & Gift Special

With the 2025 edition of Home & Gift just around the corner, we ask a selection of key exhibitors to share details of products they are planning to highlight at the Harrogate event Vanessa Curry Managing Director Best Kept Secrets

Hannah Jenkins Director UK & I Cereria Mollá 1899

Stand: A-A16

Stand: A-A21

Why are you exhibiting?

Why are you exhibiting?

Home & Gift is always a highlight on our calendar. It’s a friendly, well-paced show that gives us the chance to connect with our stockists and showcase new ideas in a relaxed, welcoming environment. It’s also a great opportunity to hear direct feedback from our retailers, which we really value.

“We’re really excited to present our ever-growing Just Because range” What are you showcasing?

We will present our ever-growing Just Because range - it continues to perform incredibly well, and we’re expanding it in some exciting directions. It’s a range that people connect with emotionally and visually, and it’s been fantastic to see it evolve.

Any launches?

Yes! We’re launching our brand-new Just Because Duos at the show: beautiful gift bags featuring a themed tin candle alongside a matching product like a “Make a Wish” or “Happy Birthday” message. These sit perfectly under that £10 price point and offer something a little extra-special for the gifting market. We’ll also be showcasing the original “Red One” from our Three Light box range, which has become a customer favourite.

Any show offers?

Home & Gift is the ideal platform to connect with key buyers. It provides a unique opportunity to introduce Cereria Mollá 1899 to a wider audience seeking to differentiate their fragrance offering with something truly authentic and handcrafted.

It’s also a valuable moment to reconnect with our existing stockists, showcase our full range, and present launches for Christmas and beyond, as we look ahead to 2026.

What are you showcasing?

We’re excited to present our signature Boutique home fragrance collections, including luxury scented candles, reed diffusers, perfume incense, and room sprays - all handcrafted in Spain using specially developed fragrance oils and sustainable materials.

Visitors will experience our bestselling scents such as Bergamotto di Calabria, Amber & Sandalwood and Santal & Tonka. We’re also showcasing some new launches, including a fresh fragrance innovation and a special range developed exclusively for Christmas.

Any launches?

Our upcoming A/W fragrance collection features rich, enveloping scents that transform spaces into sanctuaries. Our new Wax Melt Tin Discovery Set is the ultimate induction into the brand’s olfactory universe. Encased in stylish, practical tins - and featuring four of our bestselling fragrances - each melt preserves the brand’s blends in an easy-to-use, mess-free format.

Also new for A/W25 is our Limited Edition Oud & Leather fragrance: a bold, seductive scent that blends smoky woods with soft, supple leather for a luxurious experience.

And last but by no means least is our new Christmas collection. There are two formats. The Cereria Mollá Home Fragrance Cracker features a Cereria Mollá signature candle, new wax melt tins, and a 3ml perfume spray. The Cereria Mollá Festive Gift Set offers two candles and features two new Spanish-inspired festive fragrances: Spiced Valencian Orange, and Andalusian Nutmeg & Ginger.

We don’t run show offers - our pricing always reflects great value. We prefer to keep things simple and consistent for our stockists. That said, we’re always open to chatting about ranges and opportunities at the stand.

Any show offers?

What makes this show special?

What makes this show special?

There’s a warmth and charm to Home & Gift that you don’t get elsewhere. The location is beautiful, and the show has a really relaxed feel. It feels more like a community than an industry event.

Top tips for visitors?

Book your restaurant tables early - trust us on that one! And definitely take time to enjoy the atmosphere; the show has such great energy. Oh, and don’t miss the G&Ts on the lawn!

Absolutely. We’re pleased to offer some exciting new promotions and in-store support. Visitors who pre-book a meeting will also receive a complimentary Home Fragrance gift pack.

Home & Gift is an important moment in the retail calendar. It offers a meaningful opportunity to connect directly with our customers in a relaxed yet focused setting. The timing is ideal: perfectly placed for buyers planning a strong second half, while also offering a forward-looking perspective as we begin conversations around 2026.

Top tips for visitors?

Take your time to explore and of course, visit us early - we have limited samples to give away and would love to share the Cereria Mollá story with you.

72 Gifts Today

Trade Talk H&G July.indd 1

04/07/2025 13:00

Paul Hooker Managing Director Joe Davies

Stand: B-A02 Why are you exhibiting?

Stacey McNeill Founder Fox Under The Moon

Home & Gift just falls so perfectly for retailers wanting to get their busy season off to the perfect start. We launch our entire A/W collection and can even manage a repeat or two on our factories, based on sales at the show.

What are you showcasing?

Why are you exhibiting?

With more than 2,500 products making their debut, there really is something for everyone. One standout range that we’re particularly excited about is our range of health and wellbeing beauty products. Super for self-purchase or gifting, the beautifully co-ordinated collection consists of gel-filled eye masks, heatless curlers, shower caps, eye masks, and so much more. Perfect as stocking fillers too, the items are all supplied in CDUs for ease of display and impulse purchase appeal.

What are you showcasing?

“With more than 2,500 products making their debut, there really is something for everyone”

Stand: B-A29 Home & Gift feels like a second home to us. It was one of the first trade shows we exhibited at, and we’ve been returning ever since because of the warmth, connection and care that flows through the whole event.

It’s not just a trade show, it’s a gathering of likeminded creatives, retailers and buyers who really understand the value of meaningful, heartfelt products.

Harrogate is the perfect setting for us to connect with people who align with our values.

We’re excited to showcase our bestselling core range of books, greeting cards, prints, and gifts - all designed to gently support mental health and emotional wellbeing through encouraging messages and whimsical illustrations.

We’re also proudly showcasing our children’s range of journals and affirmation cards, which won the Health & Wellbeing And Accessible Gift category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025.

Any launches?

Yes! We’re launching a collection of 16 greeting cards for Summer 2025, featuring adapted artwork and text from our forthcoming gift book published by Quercus (Hachette UK): “Fox Under The Moon - Seasons of Comfort and Hope”.

The cards are themed around emotional resilience, gentle encouragement, and the changing seasons of life, mirroring the heart of the book. Home & Gift will be one of the very first opportunities for buyers to view the full collection in one place.

While the book itself isn’t available to order at the stand, trade pre-orders are open now (with no MOQ, free UK postage and a 40% discount). And we’d love to talk to retailers about book signing events or displays.

Any show offers?

To celebrate Home & Gift’s 65th year, we’ll be inviting visitors to sit, pause, and write a card to someone they care about. We will provide stamps and post them at the end of each day.

We’re encouraging all visitors to take part in our card-writing activity. Whether you’re new to Fox Under The Moon or a long-standing stockist, we’d love you to stop by and say hello, and maybe post a little love into the world.

Any launches?

We’ve spent the last 12 months developing product for the show. Pebble Glass is repeating strongly for retailers, and we will launch some super new additions. Glass LED lamps with shades, and heavy glass tea light holders in warm rich colours, look fantastic.

A surprise development has been embossed tin, made possible thanks to a new high-definition print treatment which has given a classic product a completely modern and refreshing feel.

Equilibrium will see the best range of hats, gloves, scarves, and bags launched to date, with animal print, faux sheepskin, and fur trending strongly.

What makes this show special?

Joe Davies has been exhibiting for well over 30 years at Harrogate, and it’s a firm favourite in our show calendar; it’s far less frenetic and more laid-back than the NEC. The atmosphere is super, both inside the venue and around the town in the evenings. It’s a very special show.

Top tips for visitors?

Take your time, walk every hall (and aisle), and always ask suppliers what their bestsellers are.

What makes this show special?

The people, the pace, and the personality. It’s not rushed or transactional - it’s thoughtful, warm, and full of meaningful conversations. The Harrogate setting adds to the magic.

We also love how many independent retailers attend. These are people who really care about what they curate and who their products speak to, and that’s exactly who we want to work with. Add to that the celebration of the show’s 65th year, and this one’s shaping up to be extra special.

Top tips for visitors?

Come curious and come comfy! Home & Gift is full of hidden gems and the magic often lies just a little off the beaten path. So wander, chat, bring a notebook, and pop by our stand - whether to stock our range or simply take a gentle breather.

Best tip of all? Don’t just shop for products. Shop for purpose. Look for brands whose stories resonate, whose values align with your own, and who’ll support you long after the show ends. Those are the partnerships that last.

Trade Talk H&G July.indd 2

03/07/2025 21:04

Trade talk Mark Jones Sales Director University Games and Lagoon

Stands: DP1-D81 and DP1-D91 Why are you exhibiting?

Rebecca Moss Founder Ellie And I

Stand: DP1-B96 Why are you exhibiting?

We’re thrilled to be part of this event, which offers a unique opportunity to connect with over 500 brands and thousands of new products, making it an ideal platform to showcase our latest innovations and engage with key retailers.

It’s great for meeting up with our independent retailers. The event allows us time to work with each, understand their needs, and make recommendations on products and ranges that best suit their requirements.

What are you showcasing?

What are you showcasing?

Any launches?

We will be showcasing both best-selling lines and new ranges across two stands. Our Lagoon stand will display our Games in a Tin range, Purple Cow Science series, and Project Genius collection of brainteaser puzzles, as well as a Christmas range of seasonal games and CDUs. Our University Games stand will have all our hot favourites, including the core four: What’s Up, Charades for Kids, Don’t Say It and Yes No! as well as key licensed lines such as Dog Man, Roald Dahl and The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Perudo, Who’s in the Bag, the iconic Subbuteo range, and the extensive Learning Journey range will also be on display.

Our much-loved peelable gel wax melts; customer favourites for their mess-free removal, long-lasting fragrance, and easy scent swapping. We’re also featuring our flower diffusers, which have quickly become a go-to for adding lasting scent and a touch of style to any space. We look forward to sharing these loved products with even more retailers at the show.

Yes! We will unveil some brand-new burners designed to complement our gel melts perfectly. These additions aim to enhance the customer experience by combining style and functionality.

Any show offers?

Visit us for exclusive show discounts on all products, including gel melts, burners, and flower diffusers. Plus, pick up free samples to experience our bestselling fragrances first-hand.

What makes this show special?

Home & Gift is renowned for its friendly, collaborative atmosphere and high-quality visitors. It’s the perfect place to build lasting partnerships, learn from fellow brands, and get live feedback on our products from experienced retailers.

Any launches?

Three new ranges have joined the Lagoon lineup this year. The first is the Birthday in a Box range that includes lots of birthday celebration items delivered in one gift box. This covers all the milestone ages from 18-60, as well as a generic Birthday Box. The second is the National Geographic How Things Work range of nine STEAM science toys. In addition, we have the new Classic Pub Cards, Dice and Coaster games.

There have also been several additions to the University Games range including the Bullseye Game, Buying Time and Easy Cheesy, as well as three lines joining the Roald Dahl range: Matilda The Extraordinary Challenges Game, the Swashboggling Story Telling game, and the Roald Dahl Find It Fast game.

Any show offers?

In an attempt to reduce the ‘stampede’ of traffic onto the stand, we don’t want to share our show offers just yet! But if you pop along, we can share them on the day.

What makes this show special?

It’s always fun and relaxed, and allows us to spend some quality time with our current retailers, as well as meet new faces. Although the show has a gift focus, it attracts buyers from a variety of sectors, which makes Harrogate a really fun and interesting event for the whole team.

Top tips for visitors?

Make sure you use your time to enjoy yourself and soak in the atmosphere. Go along to each exhibitor with an open mind, and spend some quality time really getting to know the company and its ranges. Harrogate is a perfect location to embrace new and exciting trends and products.

Sarah Watmore Owner Miss Milly

Stand: DP3-B07 Why are you exhibiting?

We love Home & Gift. It’s our favourite show for the location, happy vibes, and (hopefully) the sun shines. It’s also held at an important time, as we launch our A/W collection as well as taking high summer orders for immediate dispatch.

What are you showcasing?

I feel like I say it every season, but this one is really my favourite yet. Why? Because as well as some new jewellery to showcase with statement pieces, magnetic and adjustable necklaces, and magnetic brooches, we have a vivid collection of scarves, brand-new designs in our recycled leather bags, and a new capsule collection of intricately-beaded velvet pouches.

Any launches?

Our new pouches are so detailed with their bead and sequin decor and are exquisitely handcrafted in India, with a cotton lining and quality zip closure. The four designs (owl, fox, dragonfly and bee) are based on some of our magnetic brooch designs, giving real cohesion to the range.

And they are available in two sizes: an evening and occasion pouch that’s large enough to fit a big iPhone, and can also be used as a make-up bag; and a smaller purse that will take a bank card, cash and keys.

What makes this show special?

Unlike the NEC where we travel home most nights, Harrogate is a mini break for us - made so special by the evenings out with customers and industry colleagues.

The happy vibes carry over into the show days and there is usually a lovely, buzzy atmosphere and a really positive approach to buying.

It’s also where we get the first feedback on the A/W collection, so it’s important for that too. And, as with all shows, it’s great to catch up with our peers - often for the first time since Spring Fair.

74 Gifts Today

Trade Talk H&G July.indd 3

03/07/2025 21:05

Gill Marchbank Managing Director Remaldi

Stand: A-B16 Why are you exhibiting?

We see Harrogate as one of the UK’s most vibrant mid-season buying events. Its carefully curated mix draws gift, fashion accessory and lifestyle buyers in one place, giving Remaldi the ideal stage to position reading eyewear as a bona fide fashion item and to deepen relationships with independents who value quick-to-market trend product.

What are you showcasing?

The spotlight is on Remaldi’s A/W25 reading and sun reading glass collection: 25-plus new styles in the season’s key shades of amber, mustard, warm browns, olives, flame red and regal purples. Crafted largely from recycled plastics, the range balances sustainability with fashion cred, spanning punchy statement frames through to 1990s-inspired slim ovals and rectangles.

Any launches?

Yes. Buyers will get first sight of Annecy Electric (vivid fuchsia) and Stamford Cherry (deep burgundy) colour expansions, transparent plastic aviator Barnes Almond, and modern York Sage and unisex Bamburg Olive in nature-driven hues.

Plus, there will be sneak peeks of S/S26 optical chains, versatile glasses wraps that replace bulky cases, glossy new Snozzle spec-holders, and RFID card wallets in on-trend animal prints, plus refreshed mixed pattern and mixed retro boxes. These make great Christmas gifts and will be available from September.

Any show offers?

We offer free display stands with realistic initial order quantities, so new stockists don’t have to worry about outlaying too much money to trial something new.

What makes this show special?

The great July timing lets us talk trends before peak autumn drop dates, while Harrogate’s historic setting creates a friendly, community feel. We’re also Leeds-based, so it’s very convenient for us!

Top tips for visitors?

I’d visit the external design marquees first thing in the morning - when they’re quieter and cooler - and then visit the main halls in the exhibition centre. You’re doing it in reverse order but I think it would be more pleasant. Wear comfortable shoes, and make sure you come and say hi!

Lisa Marcuccio Head of Sales Wrendale Designs

Stand: DP1-C111 Why are you exhibiting?

After a few years away, we’re thrilled to be back. This show has always been a highlight for our customers, and we look forward to welcoming familiar faces, meeting new ones, and unveiling our new collections.

What products are you showcasing?

We’re particularly excited about our new plush characters, as well as a new embroidered collection including cushions and cosmetic bags with rich colours and exquisite textures, made from recycled fabrics.

Any launches?

We’re introducing a ‘Signature Stationery’ collection, featuring beautiful packaging, signature designs and gold foil detailing. The luxurious collection includes illustrated notebooks, a boxed pen and pouch set, boxed pencils, and a stationery set.

What makes this show special?

There’s a unique energy at this show, and it’s one our customers and team love to attend - with the sun often shining and a really welcoming atmosphere. There’s nothing quite like hearing immediate feedback on new products and seeing customers experience them in person for the first time.

Keith Edmondson Joint Managing Director Langs

Stand: A-A30 Why are you exhibiting?

Home & Gift continues to be a major draw for customers, and the usually good weather adds to the relaxed and positive atmosphere. We’re using the show as the perfect launchpad for our exciting Spring 2026 range, giving customers the chance to pre-order well in advance all with the reassurance that Langs offers complete flexibility, allowing amendments or cancellations without any hassle.

What are you showcasing?

Stand: DP1-B05

We’re really excited to launch our Spring 2026 range. Of all the collections that Langs introduces, Spring is truly the jewel in the crown - both in terms of volume and the showstopping artwork.

I’d highly recommend visitors stop by our stand to see it for themselves. What makes it even more special is that the artwork is created in-house by one of our incredibly talented designers. The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing real appreciation for the creativity and quality we bring to the table.

Why are you exhibiting?

Any launches?

Louise Dooley Commercial Director Stoneglow

It’s our favourite trade show!

What are you showcasing?

Our new ceramic hanging diffusers: they’re so cute and reusable.

Any launches?

Yes, our fabulous new Seasonal range, with jewel coloured vessels and festive fragrances.

Any show offers?

There’s a free gift when you pop onto the stand!

What makes this show special?

Home & Gift is so unique; it’s a social and work event that blends perfectly. We get to see customers at the stand, and then at the bar!

Top tips for visitors?

Wear comfortable shoes, apply sunscreen, and bring an umbrella, because you can never predict the British weather.

Our Spring launch is extensive, featuring around 19 distinct ranges for customers to choose from - so there’s plenty to excite and inspire.

What makes this show special?

The relaxed atmosphere gives us a great opportunity to spend more time talking business with customers - something that’s not always possible day to day. I always find it fascinating how similar many of us are in the challenges we face and the goals we share. Relationships really do matter, and after 25 years at Langs, it’s always a pleasure to catch up with customers I’ve known for so long.

Top tips for visitors?

Take the time to walk as much of the show as you can. There are plenty of companies spread across multiple halls of all sizes, so planning your route in advance can really help you make the most of your visit.

I’d also recommend wearing comfortable footwear and bringing a refillable water bottle. There are water stations around the venue, and staying hydrated makes a big difference during a long day on your feet.

Gifts Today 75

Trade Talk H&G July.indd 4

03/07/2025 21:06

Product Focus Socks

Wrendale Designs

Socktopus

Bare Kind

Buyer’s eye Perfect pairings Leading independent gift buyers reveal what’s trending and what’s ascending in their socks merchandise mix

Bill Nettelfield of Bill & Berts in Colchester:

The socks sector has certainly seen some changes over the years, shifting from simple foot coverings to trendy fashion statements.

We find out more from suppliers and retailers

F

inding the right socks to appeal to friends and family can be tricky - but times are a-changing, and the offerings have become more diverse, meaning retailers can provide their customers with a better choice than ever before.

We asked suppliers for their scoop on this staple sector, which holds a special place on the gift scene…

How has this sector evolved in recent years?

Josephine Starsmore, co-founder and creative lead at Josephine Starsmore Socktopus: Socks are the new greetings cards! We see endless trends from sweary and rude to fluffy and nostalgic designs while bamboo yarn continues to be increasingly adopted by customers. Forward-thinking, eco-aware and responsiblysourced are now - rightly - top of the wishlist for retailers.

Lucy Jeffrey, founder of Bare Kind: We’ve seen a huge shift in how people view socks. They’re no longer just a practical item, but a genuine form of self-expression.

There’s been a noticeable move away from plain black and white socks towards fun, brighter designs. More customers are using socks to add a pop of colour to their outfit, or as a way to show off their personality - from the ground up!

Lucy Jeffrey Perhaps the biggest change, though, has been the move towards sustainability. Customers are increasingly aware of what their products are made from. We love that our socks are made using bamboo: a soft, breathable, and eco-friendly material that’s better for the planet and your feet.

Any hot trends that we can look out for?

Josephine: Capybara themes seem to still be gaining momentum. Kidulthood and texture is also key for 2026 gifting for us.

Lucy: Conscious gifting is a trend that’s here to stay. Consumers are leaning into meaningful purchases that align with their values, whether it’s sustainability, animal welfare, or ethical production. We’re also seeing a rise in demand for matching family sets and gift boxes that offer a curated, ready-to-gift experience.

Anything you’re working on for this sector?

Josephine: Collaborations. We love to join forces with like-minded businesses across all sectors, to surprise and delight our customers by showing them something unexpected. We’re also putting a lot of focus on our Socks For Good range to use sock sales to donate to causes close to our core values.

Lucy: We’re super-excited to be expanding our range to include more animal designs, all made from our signature bamboo fabric. We very recently launched brand-new Highland Cow, Duckling and Goat designs - because who doesn’t love pasture perfect farm socks?! We’re also developing new Christmas socks, just in time for the festive season.

From the day we opened, Swole Panda and Powder have sold well - and Powder socks come in a stunning gift bag, which really sets them off. We also stock Miss Sparrow and Wrendale Designs, and have just started stocking football socks from White Cotton.

Last Christmas we sold Otterdene’s cosy thick socks for the first time and this year we’ll sell a lot more. Plus, we’ve sold Roka bags from day one, and its new range of plain socks have been great; it’s been worth stocking every colour.

Most of our socks are bamboo mix. The comfort of bamboo would seem much more important than any sustainable factors.

Natalie Yates of online retailer Gifts From Handpicked:

Our brands are United Oddsocks and Wrendale Designs. What’s popular? Anything that’s on trend, from llamas, unicorns and sloths to more recently cocktails, beer and sport. Bamboo does really well for us, and the softer designs. However, add colour and fun, and these sell just as well. And not just for kids - the men’s and women’s fun designs trend as gifts.

Heather Middleton of Bazaar in Barnstaple:

We sell Smiling Faces bamboo ladies’ and men’s socks and Wrendale Designs socks. The Smiling Faces range is brilliant, with something for everyone, but it’s the rude ones that sell out first! They’re such a good gift idea for men and women - and super soft and sustainable too. The Christmas designs are very popular. Wrendale Designs socks are also excellent quality and gorgeous designs for both men and women.

I’ve definitely noticed a trend of customers wanting sustainable products and having more awareness about what they are buying and what impact it has on the environment.

Caroline Ranwell of Hugs & Kisses in Tettenhall:

Socks have certainly become a really popular small gift. We stock Belly Button Designs, White Cotton, Wrendale Designs, Smiling Faces, and Miss Sparrow. Our customers love cute socks with animals or pretty animal designs. We also do really well with football socks from White Cotton.

Soni Ahmed of Maia Gifts in Glasgow:

Socks seem to be a real fashion statement now. We stock Miss Sparrow, Gemjar, and Smiling Faces. Animal-themed socks sell best: cats in particular. In recent years there’s been a big increase in white sport socks for the younger generation, as well as an overall appeal for bolder patterns and brighter colours.

Nicola Hibon Jackson of The Voewood in Blackheath:

Our bestselling brands are MSH, Thunders Love, and Roka. Our most popular lines are bright and classic quality men’s everyday styles, in favour of novelty socks. But glitter socks always sell well over the festive season as stocking fillers.

Priya Aurora-Crowe of Lark London in London:

We carry the Sock Talk brand, and anything with cats and dogs on is popular. Plus, bamboo always outsells cottons.

Paddy Morton of Strickland and Holt in Yarm:

Over the past three years, socks have come back and been a great seller for us. Our bestselling brands are Joya and Miss Sparrow. What’s popular? Bamboo, in all designs.

Cathy Frost, owner of Loveone in Ipswich:

We stock Black Colour DK. Floral patterns were particularly strong this spring, and people are asking for vegan socks.

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Namaste

Namaste is bringing the socks, and they’re colourful and full of personality. Made with 100% fine knit wool, each pair is handcrafted by skilled artisans in Nepal using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Bursting with funky patterns and feel-good vibes, they’re ideal as boot socks or for relaxing on camping trips, caravanning holidays, chilly evenings, or dancing through festivals in comfort and style.

These cosy companions are warm, woolly, and wonderfully unique.

Call: 01756 700790 Email: sales@namaste-uk.com Visit: www.namaste-uk.com

Wrendale Designs

Festive, cosy and designed for all the family, these beautifully illustrated socks from Wrendale Designs offer great gift appeal this season. As with all Wrendale socks, they each come with a free illustrated gift bag - making them feel extra special to gift and receive.

Call: 01652 680253 Email: info@wrendaledesigns.co.uk Visit: www.wrendaledesigns.co.uk

Bare Kind

Bare Kind has introduced three brand-new animal sock designs: the lovable Highland Cow, playful Goat, and sweet little Duckling. The brand says: “These charming additions to our growing collection are inspired by the animals we adore - and they’re designed to make a real difference.

“With every pair sold, we donate 10% of profits to two incredible charities: the North Wales Wildlife Trust, which works to protect native wildlife and natural habitats; and The Farm Animal Sanctuary, the UK’s first shelter dedicated to the care and rescue of farm animals. These donations help support the wellbeing of the very creatures that inspire our designs.”

The socks are crafted from luxuriously soft bamboo, so they're not only kind to animals but also kind to your feet: naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and gentle on sensitive skin.

Durable and long-lasting, they’re made to be worn and loved time and time again.

Perfect for thoughtful gifting or adding a pop of personality to your everyday wardrobe, the new designs are ideal for summer or simply celebrating a love of animals. Whether your customers are buying for themselves or a loved one, each pair is a meaningful step towards a more sustainable and compassionate world.

Call: 07899 004764 Email: hello@barekind.com Visit: https://barekind.co.uk/

Socktopus

Joe Davies

Call: 07763200645 Email: wholesale@soctopus.co.uk Visit: www.socktopus.co.uk

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

Socktopus is a family-owned and operated sock business whose mission is simple: to spread joy with every pair you wear or buy as a gift. It says: “We believe that within our ranges we have a design for absolutely everyone, whether it be cotton, bamboo or licensed. We are passionate about fun, doing good and banishing boring socks!”

More designs have been added for 2025 including Fluffy Friends, which won gold in the jewellery & textile category of Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring’s Best Product Awards. The range is ever-expanding, with new A/W designs arriving from mid-July onwards.

Bold, bright, and bursting with personality - the latest Sock Society collection (Phase 12) from Joe Davies is here, and it’s guaranteed to put a spring in your customers’ steps. This new release for 2025 features eight fun and original designs, including Citrus, Shark, Fast Food, Gym, Veggies, Electric Guitar, Strawberry, and Scooter.

Available in a bulk pack containing 96 pairs across three assorted colourways per design, this range makes merchandising effortless. Even better, all designs are also available to order individually, giving you complete flexibility to top up your bestsellers or tailor your selection to your store.

Perfect for gift shops, lifestyle stores, fashion retailers and garden centres, Sock Society socks continue to sell through fast, thanks to their mix of vibrant designs, great quality and value.

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RETAIL INTERVIEW

Utility

“We pride ourselves o Clare Turner chats to Richard Skelton, director of The Retas 2025 award-winning six-strong chain Utility, which is celebrating its 26th anniversary as an independent design and gift retailer What’s your career background?

I qualified as a chartered surveyor in 1992 and worked for Bass PLC as an estate manager in the Thames Valley before moving into operational management. After eight years on the corporate ladder, my partners Dick Mawdsley and Kate Cowie and I set up coffee stores in Liverpool, which we sold in 2002 to concentrate on Utility - which we opened after our second coffee store in 1999.

Why did you decide to make the move into gift retailing?

It was by accident really. It developed from an initial foray into homeware when we opened the first Utility with a few design-led gifts from brands including Alessi and Iittala, and a small selection of cards.

“It’s a fun sector to be involved in”

Did You Know?

Utility is an independent design and gift retailer with stores across the North West. The company says: “We believe that design is for everyone. At Utility we have a passion for finding the new, unique, quirky, cool, and very best in design for gifting and pure self-indulgence.

“We pride ourselves on being different, offering our customers an original shopping experience and being the go-to place for designs that people will love.”

Tell us a bit about Utility.

We opened the first store on Liverpool’s Bold Street in November 1999, which we fitted out ourselves with a mix of gifts, home accessories and small furniture items.

We opened a second store a few doors down the road to accommodate more furniture, and the original store became a gift store in its own right with more cards and a wider selection of gift product.

From there we were asked by Grosvenor [the original developer and manager of Liverpool ONE] to open in Liverpool ONE - the region’s premier shopping destination - and we were the only independent in there.

Since then, we’ve opened further stores in Manchester, Altrincham and Chester. Typically, we look for stores around the 1,000-1,200sq ft mark.

How would you describe your range?

It’s an edited selection of design-led product focused on current and aspirational trends.

What are your key categories?

Greeting cards, home fragrance, stationery and apparel.

How do you find products?

Through a mix of rep visits, trade press, and trade shows - as well as competitor visits both here and especially abroad.

What’s your selection criteria?

We look for product with a design edge and avoid anything too twee or corny. We tend to avoid anything which is too clichéd such as signs which say ‘Wine o’clock’ or ‘This way to the beach’, or ‘Gone fishin’’... that type of thing. It’s a hackneyed word but we look for the ‘cool’ and fashionforward rather than what might be generally seen as generic gift store product.

What’s proving popular at the moment?

Jellycat - isn’t it popular everywhere?

What are your best sellers?

Jellycat, our own-brand candles, greeting cards, prints, pens, apparel including bags, fashion and sunglasses.

What are some of your new arrivals?

Photo frames by Helio Ferretti, Mr Maria’s Bundle of Light and Snoopy Lamps - which we have brought back following a change in their distribution, Earlybird stationery, and storage tins from Wrap and HAY. How has trading been for you so far this year?

It’s been fantastic. We’re considerably up on the previous year with two new physical store openings - one in central Manchester in December

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s on being different” 2024, another in Chester (pictured below right) on May 2, and a third opening in August: the location is under wraps at the moment.

Chester has actually far exceeded our expectations and is already our second-best trading store, not least due to its plum location [on Eastgate Row]. While we are seeing regulars now, we are also enjoying the benefit of new customers daily due to the volume of tourists visiting the city.

What are you most excited about stocking for the next season?

More of our own-brand product, and developments of this into other areas.

“Our agents are currently scouting for new sites with heads of terms agreed on our next location” Who are your typical customers?

Our customer base is extremely broad. I wouldn’t say anyone is ‘typical’ though they would tend to have an eye for the unusual and are probably looking for gifts and cards for the more discerning recipient.

How do you get the word out there?

Via our social media platforms on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and our own website and database.

Do you offer any services?

Yes, we offer gift-wrapping and gift vouchers and also run offers from time to time, both in store and through our website database to subscribed users.

What’s next for your gifts: are you looking at expanding into new product categories?

We’re always on the lookout. Like any business, we can never afford to stand still and are always looking for new trends and opportunities - as well as moving on when sales start to slip, or the market

becomes saturated, or the supermarkets jump on the bandwagon.

What’s next for your business: do you have any exciting news or plans that you would like to share?

Our agents are currently scouting for new sites with heads of terms agreed on our next location.

We have spent a lot of time and money fine-tuning our brand identity and overall store look, layouts and appeal - but this is very much dependent on the location and opportunities available.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I have overall responsibility for our websites www.utilitydesign.co.uk and www.utilitygift.co.uk and enjoy all aspects of the business.

I like the variety of each day and dealing with customers - and I love hearing the positivity about the business when this gets fed back. It’s a fun sector to be involved in, and every day brings its own rewards.

Finally, do you have a favourite gift?

Yes, Ampersand Fragrances’ Portofino Eau De Parfum.

Timeline • Liverpool Gift Store - opened 1999 86 Bold Street, Liverpool • Liverpool ONE Gift Store - opened 2010 10 Manesty’s Lane, Liverpool ONE (though this was at 8 Paradise Place, Liverpool ONE until two years ago) • Manchester Gift Store - opened 2019 128 Oxford Road, University Green, Manchester • Altrincham Gift Store - opened 2023 50 George Street, Altrincham • Cross Street, Manchester Gift Store opened December 2024 46 Cross Street, Manchester • Chester Gift Store - opened May 2025 50 Eastgate Row, Chester Gifts Today 79

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Trade talk As we hit the second half, key suppliers tell us how business is going for them, from surprise wins to in-demand styles, and what the vibe is like among retailers Stephen Thurlow Director Alexander Thurlow How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

We’ve had a very strong start to the year, and this is continuing on into the second half, which is very exciting. We have some great new designs coming through and the brand is really starting to get noticed now. It hits a nice sweet spot on price in shops, so makes a wonderful gift purchase.

How is retailer confidence?

We feel that with the right products, retailers can do well - but there is still a sense of a battle with online sales. So providing they can offer multi-level sales, it can make up for the slightly reduced footfall.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

Our bluebells continue to surprise us, and it’s a struggle to keep them always in stock. Fortunately, we now have a much larger range in both gold and silver finishes, so if one is sold out there are always good alternatives.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

Flowers have been a big trend in clothing this year so this all helps to promote our brand going forward, and we don’t see this stopping any time soon.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

The general worldwide trade shenanigans don’t help…

It’s impossible to predict what might happen in a few months, let alone next week, at the moment. It certainly keeps the mind focused. But that’s all part of running a business, and Alexander Thurlow is now well into its 70th year and is still going strong.

Louise Dooley Commercial Director Stoneglow How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

The first half was better than expected. We launched two ranges for S/S25, along with new additions to our popular ranges - all of which have gone down really well with customers. For the second half, we’re excited about our new Seasonal range and, based on our pre-selling, we should sell out before Halloween.

How is retailer confidence?

Stoneglow stockists are repeat purchasing, so that’s wonderful news. But we know some retailers are being stretched with less staff, to overcome the national insurance and minimum wage hikes, and some now only open for five days rather than six.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

Our bold colours from the Modern Classics range have surprised us. This range is renowned for its soft pastel vibe but this year we added some strong colours, and they’re selling well.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

Strong impactful colours seem to be everywhere in fashion, so you will see this filter down into the home. Colour has a big impact on emotions and moods.

Sarah Watmore Owner Miss Milly How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

We’re just about to hit the year end and have successfully achieved our targeted growth, so we’re really happy.

As over the past five years, there continues to be little predictability with sales patterns. So you just have to work hard to keep costs down, service levels up, and deliver the right products.

June is always a quiet month as we close for a couple of days for stocktaking and then retailers tend to work through their stock and wait for the first launches in July. It gives us a chance to catch up on the next season’s product launch admin and start the following S/S collection.

How is retailer confidence?

It’s quite varied. Some are doing brilliantly, as reflected by our own growth, but we’ve noticed that the coastal towns are late starting the season, despite the run of good weather. It’s such a balancing act; it’s either too nice and people want to be outside and not shopping, or it’s nasty and they don’t want to leave home.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

While yellow was a forecast trend for fashion this year and we backed it, we didn’t expect to do so well, as it’s usually a hard colour to sell. We unexpectedly had to restock our yellow resin jewellery earlier in the season.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

Yellow will continue to flourish as the sun shines on, and coral is selling really well. Its warm tone works really well with wardrobe staples such as navy and taupe, and it adds a lovely pop of colour. And magnetic brooches continue their incredible popularity, with record numbers selling for us this year.

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Hannah Jenkins Director UK & I Cereria Mollá 1899 How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

It’s been an exciting time for Cereria Mollá following the launch of the brand to the UK market early in 2025. Retailers are responding positively - as they look for premium products that offer something truly unique in-store.

We’re seeing strong interest from gift stores, home and lifestyle stores, premium garden centres, and retailers who are looking for elevated alternatives to mass-market home fragrance and want to stand out from the crowd.

How is retailer confidence?

Retailers are cautious, but they’re actively seeking points of difference.

There’s a real appetite for products that are beautifully crafted, tell a story and deliver an authentic, elevated experience - especially in categories like home fragrance where emotional connection is key.

Confidence is building among those who can offer consumers something special and Cereria Mollá is fitting that partnership well.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

Our Bergamotto di Calabria and Santal & Tonka fragrances have been early standouts in 2025, while our candles and reed diffusers continue to be bestsellers. We’ve seen a notable rise in demand for our fragrance incense and home perfumes, signalling a growing consumer interest in alternative ways to scent the home.

With Christmas ahead and several key new launches on the horizon, we’re excited to see which fragrances capture attention next; there are sure to be some new standouts

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

We anticipate strong momentum in luxury gifting and seasonal home fragrance as we head into Q4. Customers are looking for products that elevate the everyday, particularly those with an authentic story of craftsmanship and heritage.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

Retailers are telling us they need help creating in-store experiences that drive footfall and encourage discovery. That’s why we’re investing in strong trade support, from visual merchandising and sampling, to exclusive retailer bundles and storytelling tools. Cereria Mollá is not just a product; it’s an atmosphere. Helping retailers bring that to life is core to our brand experience.

Aylish Ellwood Senior Marketing Manager Enesco How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

While trading is still challenging, there has certainly been a positive uplift with strong signs of improvement compared with 2024, in all markets and all channels. New opportunities and initiatives have fuelled this growth, with hopefully more to come as we move into the all-important second half.

How is retailer confidence?

There’s no doubt that retailer confidence has grown significantly in recent months. However, with the economic uncertainties of the wide world, this confidence is fragile. Daily, we’re mindful of this when making future plans.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

Having been a Beatrix Potter licensee for almost 40 years, this leading gift and collectable collection has always been strong for us. However, we’re seeing significant growth in many formats, particularly plush and nursery gift items, which have always performed strongly.

Our charming new animated Peter Rabbit, where storytelling meets cosy cuddles, plays an eight-minute full-length rendition of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit”. It has proven to be a particular success story. Working closely with retailers in the Lake District, the news is that international tourists (particularly from Asia) are back this season, resulting in a positive impact on Peter Rabbit sales.

Willow Tree and Disney Traditions have also been part of our portfolio for many years. Again, we’re enjoying growth with these two well-known brands, as consumers seek brands they can trust.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

Following the recent success of the live action movie “Lilo & Stitch”, we’re confident that sales of this much-loved mischievous character will continue to grow, eventually being considered a true evergreen Disney character.

And home fragrance is such an important category as we move into the second half. Most certainly, home fragrance gifts sets and advent calendars will grow in popularity as consumers look for an alternative way to gift and enjoy their favourite fragrances. Our home fragrance collection Yankee Candle has many such gift sets and an advent calendar offering varying price points and content, resulting in broad appeal.

Malene Brondberg

Trevor Cash

Founder

Director

We Love Seasons

Mad Beauty

How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

Growth with positive optimism.

How is retailer confidence?

Improving, but still measured.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

We Love Seasons is still new, so launching new collections is both nerve-wracking and exciting - and we’ve received positive feedback and reviews on recent releases.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

With climate change ever-present, we hope to see a shift towards quality over quantity and a stronger focus on ethical sourcing.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

No - we’re just really pleased to be back at Home & Gift!

We’ve seen a surprising increase in demand and continued confidence in our products. We have new development that is really appealing to buyers in the gifting space.

How is retailer confidence?

We think we’re benefiting from a shift, especially in younger customers, to wanting to buy into cosmetics and bath & body products. This is in addition to continued strength in nostalgia items, especially in movie/TV properties.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

While not unexpected, Stitch remains strong - and there is massive interest in our Harry Potter launch, scheduled for later this year.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

We specialise in gifting in the cosmetics and bath & body space and obviously, as we run into the holiday season, we’re expecting continued interest - especially in gift sets and advent calendars.

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Trade talk Jonny Greves Director

Holly Stafford-Smith Commercial & Operations Director

Lesser & Pavey

G H Stafford & Son

How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

While at times it does feel fairly quiet out there and the media still reports the usual ‘doom and gloom’, I think the best way to describe things is ‘steady and growing’.

We had a really good reaction to all of our new ranges at Spring Fair, particularly our Christmas range, so we’re going into the second half with a very strong order book.

We’re just about to launch another 1,200-plus brand-new lines for the second half too, so we’re excited to show these to our customers.

How is retailer confidence?

Guarded optimism, I would say. I think people are getting used to hearing the media reports I’ve mentioned, but life and business must go on. Every day is an occasion: a birth, a birthday, a wedding, or an anniversary… So our customers - particularly those that are resourceful and creative with their offerings and displays - are able to maximise these opportunities.

Of course, I’m sure they will be both realistic and optimistic that the final quarter, and the build-up to Christmas, will be the busiest and best time of the year after the summer holiday season etc.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

We’ve been seeing real success with our bigger ticket items, which in the past we might not see until later in the year. In particular, our XL Fragrance offering with 1 litre reed diffusers is a big hit - and we now have 2 litre reed diffusers and even 2000g soy candles. They are big ‘wow’ statement pieces, with not only stunning bottles and vessels but trendy colours and strong, luxurious fragrances as well.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

We’ve seen big trends in the bright and bold this year. Our Tuscany range of ceramics has been hugely popular. I’m confident this will continue into Q4, and we have lots of new products to introduce for the second half.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

I’d just like to mention our open showroom event in Kent this July. We invite our customers to view our entire range, particularly the brandnew additions. Among the new products we will be launching is a range of Aroma lamps, plus premium soy candles and diffusers, awesome new wall art, clever gift sets and food gifts, and much more.

Trading has been steady, though we’re very aware that “steady” doesn’t necessarily mean strong. It’s no secret that things are tougher across the board this year, and we’re seeing more cautious ordering as retailers manage stock levels and space carefully. That said, there’s still consistent demand for well-priced, goodquality accessories - particularly those that suit lifestyle and gifting categories.

How is retailer confidence?

Understandably mixed. Many of our customers are still buying, but they’re buying tighter and with more scrutiny. Confidence seems to vary by region and retail type, but value-led ranges continue to perform where they meet a practical customer need.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

Not really - our top sellers are very much in line with what we’d expect. Styles like unisex casual crossbodies and walking sticks continue to perform well, which reinforces our belief in offering useful, everyday products that are easy to gift and easy to sell.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

We’re simply staying close to our customers and doing what we can to support them through uncertain trading. For us, that means availability, consistency, and making it as easy as possible to buy from us.

Keith Edmondson Joint Managing Director Langs How is trading for you as we head into the second half?

Trade has been strong recently, but that doesn’t mean we take our customers for granted. I believe one of the key reasons we’ve had a successful first half is our ongoing commitment to improvement in everything we do. Our customers are always at the heart of that.

With so many suppliers out there, it’s essential that we continue to stand out and give people a clear reason to keep choosing us.

How is retailer confidence?

It’s been a bit of a mixed bag, and things seem to shift from week to week. There are so many factors that can impact our customers’ trade - from the weather and location to seasonal trends. What works well for one customer might be a challenge for another, so the effects can really vary.

Any unexpected hits so far this year?

I wouldn’t say anything was unexpected - there’s a lot of work happening behind-the-scenes to help drive a high success rate. That said, the recent spell of sunny weather has been a surprise, and it’s clear that some customers are seeing the benefit of it.

What hot trends do you predict from now until Q4?

I think price points are going to be critical. Fortunately, Langs has a strong reputation for offering well-priced products that give our customers great margins.

Any other issue you’d like to highlight?

I would encourage customers to place orders earlier than they might have in the past (pre order is what we call this at Langs). While supplier lead times aren’t as bad as they’ve been, they’re still longer than many might expect. Getting organised and locking in ranges early gives better visibility of what’s needed and shows intent.

At Langs, we even offer a no-questions-asked policy that allows customers to amend or cancel orders up to a week before despatch.

We hope that flexibility gives our customers the support and confidence they need.

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OPINION

Rights and risks Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), gives a reality check that indie retailers need on the employment challenge facing Britain’s high streets

W

hen employment lawyers start using phrases like ‘tectonic shift’ and ‘generational changes’, it’s time for independent retailers to sit up and take notice. These aren’t the usual incremental tweaks to workplace regulations - we’re facing the most significant transformation of employment law in decades.

What emerged from Bira’s latest ‘High Street Matters’ podcast wasn’t just legal jargon about new rights and responsibilities. It was a stark wake-up call. As John Jones, managing partner of Hereford department store Philip Morris & Son, said: “It ultimately comes down to the viability of businesses.

We’re already dealing with this huge new tax burden and then we’ve got essentially a huge raft of changes to deal with.”

This isn’t melodramatic. When you’re already grappling with increased business rates, rising national minimum wage, and the everyday pressures of running an independent shop, the last thing you need is a maze of new employment regulations that could trip you up at every turn.

Consider the practical reality. Day one dismissal rights mean that the hiring mistake that you made (and we’ve all made them) becomes exponentially more difficult to rectify. The probationary period, that once gave you breathing space to assess whether someone fits your team? That safety net is being fundamentally altered.

Then there’s the sick pay changes. From day one, employees will be entitled to statutory sick pay, with those on lower earnings receiving 80% of their wages. As John observed, this particularly affects younger workers - often in their first jobs where the temptation to take paid time off might increase significantly.

But here’s what concerns me most: the sheer volume of changes hitting simultaneously. It’s not just dismissal rights and sick pay. We’re talking about enhanced harassment prevention duties, parental leave modifications, zero hours contract reforms, and flexible working adjustments. For small businesses without HR departments, this represents hundreds of hours of work just to ensure compliance.

The timing couldn’t be worse. Independent retailers are already stretched thin, and now they’re being asked to become employment law experts overnight. One misstep could result in costly tribunal proceedings that many small businesses simply couldn’t survive.

However, we’re not powerless in this situation.

The government has recognised the scale of these changes and is implementing them in phases, with most taking effect in 2026. This gives us a window - not for complacency, but for preparation and influence.

“We can’t stop these changes, but we can influence their implementation and ensure that we’re ready for them” Bira has been actively engaging with the Department for Business throughout the consultation process. We’re not alone in raising concerns; virtually every sector is highlighting the potential unintended consequences. But we need your voices too.

This is where every independent retailer can make a difference. Contact your local MP. Explain how these changes will affect your business, your ability to employ people, and your contribution to the local community. We’ve already seen the government reconsider policies based on feedback from constituents - the winter fuel payment debate proved that local pressure matters.

The key is being specific about the impact. Don’t just say the changes are burdensome; explain how the additional costs and administrative requirements might force you to reduce staff hours, delay expansion plans or, in the worst case, question whether you can continue operating.

For immediate practical steps, start reviewing your current employment practices now. Strengthen your recruitment processes - getting the right person first time becomes crucial when dismissal becomes more complex.

Document everything carefully, especially during probationary periods. Consider how you’ll handle the new sick pay requirements and budget accordingly.

If you’re a Bira member, our legal helpline with WorkNest (0345 4500937) can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation. Don’t wait until these laws take effect to understand how they’ll impact your business.

The reality is that employment law has always been complex, but what’s coming represents a step change in both scope and potential consequences. The businesses that will thrive are those that prepare early, engage with the political process, and adapt their practices proactively rather than reactively.

We can’t stop these changes, but we can influence their implementation and ensure that we’re ready for them. The question isn’t whether these new employment rights will affect your business - it’s whether you’ll be prepared when they do.

Listen to episode 9 of our ‘High Street Matters’ Podcast (available on all major streaming platforms) to hear our full discussion with legal experts and fellow retailers about navigating these unprecedented changes at https://bira.co.uk/resources/podcast/.

Call: 0800 028 0245 Visit: www.bira.co.uk

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