Greetings Today September 2020

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30. 1. – 2. 2. 2021, Frankfurt am Main

September 2020

contents REGULARS 7 Leader We’re back and ready to get back to business.

8 News Catch up on all the industry’s latest news.

12 Spotlight See what new releases are set to launch.

16 John Ryan Columnist John Ryan looks at the impact colour can have for your store.

54 Retail Advice Henri Davis discusses how the pandemic has impacted environmental concerns in the industry.

the team Editor Rachel King rachel@lemapublishing.co.uk

40 Shop Talk Get to know retailers from across the country and hear what is happening in their stores.

Advertisement Manager Simon Davis simon@lemapublishing.co.uk 01442 289940 (direct)

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46 On The Shop Front Two shopkeepers provide an insight into their businesses.

52 Ward’s Words Sarah Ward reveals some exciting new developments for Gift Of The Year.

58 Step Back In Time Chairman Malcolm Naish delves into the archives to see what happened in years gone by.

FEATURES

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14 Cover Story

Managing Director Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk Chairman Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

Keep in touch follow us: @greetingstoday

Danilo looks at some of the big titles set to be launched in the coming months

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24 The New Normal Retailers discuss how trading has been and how they are coping with the new normal.

greetingstoday

56 Face Coverings Face coverings are must haves for most of us now, are they becoming a new fashion accessory?

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1 Church Gates, Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930 www.greetingstoday.co.uk Greetings Today has a circulation of 6,076

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leader Editor Rachel King

W

e’re back! It’s been a tough few months for many with lockdown, businesses closed, staff furloughed, home-schooling, cancelled trade shows – not to mention that pesky global pandemic! But now things are reopening, kids are going back to school and Boris and his buddies are trying to get us all back to work and out there again, albeit with social distancing measures and face coverings of course.

So, how did the Greetings Today team keep ourselves occupied during our hiatus you may ask?

Well there was plenty of DIY and projects at home from shed painting, to decks and a great deal of gardening. I taught my kids how to spell their names and they are becoming very proficient at using our laptops to type them out. Like many other parents there have been hours spent trying to keep the kids occupied with crafts galore, lots of baking (when I could buy flour) and hours spent outside trying to wear them out. We discovered new walks in our area and probably watched more television than I should admit to. I even gave my family some not too terrible lockdown haircuts!

It was strange not knowing how long things were going to go on for though (I know I didn’t think Covid would still be an issue now).

In the retail sphere we are used to seasons and events and planning our year and stock to suit and in the publishing world deadlines are a regular occurrence that you work towards. All this went out the window in March however and I think everyone is only just starting to grasp that it’s September already and we’re staring down the barrel of Christmas trading. Many hoped

that the Autumn trade fairs would be happening soon, or we could be visiting the events that had been postponed from earlier in the year, but this wasn’t meant to be. Many shows have gone online however, so it will be interesting to see how they go.

With all of that in mind our bounce back issue is all about sharing what has happened, what’s new and what’s in store for 2021.

We spoke to some retailers to see how they traded (or didn’t trade) over lockdown and what things are like now in our New Normal story on page 24. Danilo are looking ahead with a sneak peek at some of the new ranges they are launching over the coming months in their cover story on page 14. In Ward’s Words (p52), Sarah Ward discusses the newly launched Gift of the Year competition and website. While Henri Davis looks at how the pandemic has shifted environmental concerns over manufacturing and packaging yet again on page 32.

We have two wonderful On The Shop Front columns from two different retailers on page 46 and 48, plus our regular Shop Talk on page 40, a column discussing colour from John Ryan (p16) and a look back at what was in Step Back In Time on page 58 plus so much more.

There are exciting new ranges, a catch up on the news and plenty of ideas and products to inspire.

We hope our Bounce Back issue in its handy new size, provides plenty of encouragement and stimulus for everyone to get back to business again.

Send your views and submissions for the magazine to: rachel@lemapublishing.co.uk Tel: 01442 289930

It’s September already and we’re staring down the barrel of Christmas trading.

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inthenews

Bill Greeno joins Abacus Abacus Cards Ltd.’s MD Nick Carey announced they have secured the services of industry stalwart, Bill Greeno of BG Consulting Services. Bill Greeno, MD of BG CS Ltd, will aid Abacus with its National and Multiple customers.

Bill is the former Sales Director of Paperlink and previously Sales Director at Quitting Hollywood.

Commenting on the announcement, Bill said, “I’m really looking forward to representing Abacus Cards and all its card brands in these challenging and exciting time.”

GA New Chairman The GA has welcomed in a new chairman, Gert Schyberg from Sebnini.

Gert Schyberg said, “It’s a privilege to take over as Chairman and help guide The GA into its future, we have strong foundations to build on and have been creating brand new initiatives like our popular webinars and excitingly for this year a brandnew competition system for Gift of the Year. This will allow us to promote entrants to even more buyers and retailers during these difficult times.”

Sustainability Theme at Paperworld 2021 Paperworld 2021 will feature the overriding central theme of sustainability The event is scheduled to take place from January 30 to February 2, 2021 in Frankfurt and will for the first time have the overriding central theme of sustainability.

The three topics of environmentally conscious shopping, ecological practices and sustainability have been key issues in the paper, office supplies and stationery sector for a long time and will be brought directly into focus at Paperworld 2021.

The holistic concept is covered by three pillars: firstly, the exhibitors who are represented with sustainable products at the trade fair. Secondly, the complementary programme will highlight sustainability on several levels through speakers and specialist presentations. And the third pillar, is the cooperation with associations and clubs such as The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and others, which inform both visitors and exhibitors about their activities and the latest developments in sustainability.

Manufacturers from all office and stationery segments are increasingly focusing on sustainable and

environmentally friendly goods and their production. To make these even more visible to visitors, Paperworld is introducing sustainability as a “Special Interest”.

This labelling system clearly identifies manufacturers with sustainable products, in the exhibitor search on the website, the app and catalogue.

“Under the search term ‘Sustainability’ on the website, it will be possible to display all exhibitors in this area. This will make it easier for visitors to find the manufacturers in the halls. Moreover, they will be able to gather information about the products and the company in the exhibitor search,” said Michael Reichhold, Director of Paperworld.

“Making sustainability the top theme of Paperworld in 2021 is an important and pioneering step into the future. I am delighted that we are taking this step together with our exhibitors and partners,” said he added. Additional programme items will be developed in the coming months to integrate sustainability into other areas of Paperworld.

Festival of Licensing Wellbeing Programme The Festival of Licensing, held from October 6-29, has unveiled its Community & Wellbeing programme, sponsored by ViacomCBS Consumer Products.

The online programme will feature exclusive wellbeing sessions, business mentoring and a charity fundraiser.

The wellbeing sessions will include family friendly Dance and Yoga based on popular Nick Jr. exercise videos. A Retro Workout Class complete with classic MTV soundtrack. Plus Self-Care tips from an expert on nutrition, sleep and exercise.

Festival goers can take advantage of in-region business mentoring and advice clinics offering legal, financial and career advice. Speed networking sessions will also be available to those looking for new job opportunities.

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The event will also launch a global charity fundraiser in support of The Light Fund, Magic Wheelchair and Licensing International Small Business Global Grants Fund.

“We’re delighted to be working alongside ViacomCBS to bring valuable – and much needed – community and wellbeing content to Festival of Licensing attendees from all the over the world,” said Anna Knight, VP Global Licensing Group, Informa Markets. Free visitor registration is open at www.festivaloflicensing.com.

Kickstart Scheme The government has introduced a new Kickstart Scheme in Great Britain to create work placements for young people deemed at risk of long-term unemployment.

A £2 billion fund has been established to create hundreds of thousands of high quality 6-month work placements aimed at those aged 16 to 24 who are on Universal Credit and are deemed to be at risk of long-term unemployment.

Funding available for each job will cover 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus the associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions.

If you are an employer looking to create job placements for young people, visit the gov.uk website to check if you can apply for funding as part of the scheme. If you are considering becoming a representative for a group of employers, check what information you need to provide to apply for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.

A Century of Rupert Bear Royal Mail celebrates 100 years of Rupert with the launch of a set of 8 stamps.

Created in 1920 and first illustrated

by Mary Tourtel, Rupert Bear is Britain’s longest continually published comic strip, first appearing in the Daily Express in November of that year. The stamps feature the artwork of Alfred Bestall, who wrote and illustrated more than 270 Rupert stories after he took on the role in 1935.

The set is made up of four pairs of stamps featuring two illustrations from one of Rupert’s adventures with some of his friends including Algy Pup, Bill Badger and Pompey the baby elephant.

Philip Parker from Royal Mail, said, “We celebrate the 100th birthday of Rupert, one of the mostloved characters in children’s literature. He has introduced successive generations of children to a wonderful make-believe world of magic and adventure.”

The full set of eight stamps, available in a Presentation Pack, retails at £10.00. The stamps and a range of collectible products are available now from www.royalmail.com/rupertbear

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inthenews London Stationery Show Collaboration Finalists Announced The finalists for the Stationery Awards 2020 have been revealed!

Originally due to take place in April to coincide with London Stationery Show, the awards have been delayed this year due to the pandemic.

The Stationery Awards take place annually and benchmark good practice and innovation in the sector recognising manufacturers, retailers and rising talent.

For 2020 the Product Awards returned alongside regional Retailer Awards and a brand-new Rising Star Award, with the awards receiving over 350 entries.

“It’s more important than ever to recognise the wealth of talent across the stationery sector and champion the industry,” said Event Director, Alex Butler. “We want to thank everyone who entered for their patience whilst waiting for the shortlist to be announced. We’re very excited to reveal the finalists!”

The awards are judged by a crosssection of stationery retailers and manufacturers. Luckily plans were already in place for the judging to be completed online, so everything was set up and ready to go.

“We would like to extend a huge thank you to our judges for their time and expertise - their insight is invaluable,” Alex added.

Finalists across the categories include Collins Dedben, VENT for Change, Danilo Promotions Ltd, The Great British Card Company, Paper Mirchi, Laura Stoddart, Royal Talens, Love Writing Co and many more.

Visit www.stationeryawards.co.uk to see the full list of finalists. The winners will be announced later this month.

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Ocean Media Group has announced it is working with London Stationery Show’s founder Chris Leonard-Morgan.

Chris will work with Event Director Alex Butler as Special Advisor on the future development and direction of the London Stationery Show.

He is an acknowledged stationery champion, well known in the industry and a Liveryman and guide at the historic Stationers’ Company in the City of London.

“The team and I are so pleased to be working with Chris,” said Alex. “We’re very much looking forward to what the future holds for London Stationery Show and know that Chris’ experience and knowledge of the market will prove invaluable in driving the show forward.”

For more information on London Stationery Show or to find out how you can get involved visit www.stationeryshow.co.uk or contact the team at stationeryshow@oceanmedia.co.uk.

BCTF Run Second Online Show Following the success of their first online trade show in June, the organiser of the British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) has announced there will be a second interactive online event on September 20-22. The interactive online exhibition

will help designer-makers and buyers get ready for Christmas trading.

More than 600 buyers logged onto the first online exhibition to support over 200 British designer-makers, most of whom had been due to exhibit at BCTF before lockdown put a stop to all major events.

Organiser, Margeret Bunn said, “Covid19 has set new challenges for this growing industry but with some forward thinking and ingenuity we aim to keep supporting those that place their faith in us. Since lockdown began all 2020

exhibitions were either postponed or cancelled, including our own physical event. We quickly made the decision to hold an online interactive exhibition, which took place in June.

“Because the first event went so well, we have decided to put on a second edition of BCTF Online in September, at a time we feel buyers will be more than ready to start stocking up for what is predicted to be a bumper Christmas trading period as families seek comfort after such a difficult – and for many people, traumatic – year”.

All designer-makers already signed up for the next physical edition of BCTF, which is due to take place from April 1013 2021 at the Yorkshire Event Centre, can automatically be included in the online event if they choose to participate.

Any other British makers who are keen to take advantage of this unique opportunity to reach a large trade audience ahead of Christmas can register their interest at https://bctf.co.uk/. The cost of exhibiting online is £140 and profile pages will stay live until May 2021.

This sum will be deducted from the cost of a physical stand for anyone who signs up to the online show and chooses at a later date to exhibit at the Event Centre as well.

UKG Net Zero Carbon Programme UK Greetings has announced that they have become the first Kuehne+Nagel UK customer to sign up to their Net Zero Carbon Programme.

UKG’s teams have been working hard to bring about cost efficiencies and improved ways of working – particularly from an environmental perspective.

The intricacies of the supply chain are complex with distribution to 20 countries, production facilities across the globe and supplying over 8000 retail stores.

To ensure the quality and availability of their products, UK Greetings works with a network of suppliers. Since March 2020, UKG have been working in partnership with Kuehne+Nagel UK, to manage their sea freight logistics from Asia.

By choosing climate-friendly transport solutions and offsetting the remaining emissions with CO2 certificates, UKGs’ logistics can now say that this process is climate-neutral.

Richard Wilkinson, Operations Director, UK Greetings Ltd, said, “Businesses have a hugely important role to help build a more sustainable future. UK Greetings actively supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to transform our world by ending poverty and inequality, protecting the planet, and ensuring that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity.

Targeting the climate crisis, UK Greetings are making every effort to reduce carbon emissions from overseas shipping, as we strive to increase manufacturing in the UK. We are excited to join the Net Zero Carbon Programme, which will offset our remaining carbon emissions associated with the importation of our products.”

Footfall Strengthens yet Vacancy Rate Rises Footfall continued its steep climb back to pre-Covid levels, dropping by -30.8% from 2019. The rate of improvement was only around half that in June and July 2020.

Smaller high streets continued to benefit from home working and shopping local, with footfall in market towns down -26.6% on last August.

Coastal towns saw the benefit of Summer staycations with figures down -24.4% from the same time last year.

But with reports that non-food spending remains lower than February 2020 and news that the UK is officially going into recession, the retail sector is on edge. The reality of the situation is being reflected in the latest vacancy rate data which accounts for the widespread store closures. Figures representing stores that have ceased trading rather than having not yet reopened, the UK vacancy rate rose in July 2020 to 10.8%, up from 9.8% in January. It is now at its highest level since January 2014.

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Danilo

spotlight A selection of the latest greetings, gift and industry services releases

Danilo are excited to launch their stunning new “Guess How Much I Love You” card, wrap and bag collection. “Guess How Much I Love You” is a timeless story created by Sam McBratney that has captured the hearts of children and adults alike for over 25 years. The story features the sweet Nutbrown Hares trying to find a way to measure the unmeasurable, and Big Nutbrown Hare’s heartwarming declaration to Little Nutbrown Hare, ‘I love you right up to the moon – and back’, has helped this story become a way of saying ‘I love you’ all over the world. The beautiful illustrations created by Anita Jeram in gentle watercolours for the book series, have been delicately reflected in this stunning new range, consisting of over 30 designs to date.

01992 702 900 | www.danilo.com

Real & Exciting Designs T: 01223 207080 www.realandexcitingdesigns.co.uk

Ling Design September is all about adult ages for Ling Design. They have been wanting to refresh their offering in this area and over recent months the design teams have been working tirelessly on some bright and bold new looks.

Following the successful open launches with The Curious Inksmith, the team have now released a range of adult ages cards in the brand’s signature style. The range features 12 cards and offers a male and female option for the milestone ages between 18 and 60.

The cards feature hand-drawn artwork and are finished with touches of gold foil.

Alongside The Curious Inksmith, September also sees the introduction of an adult ages line within Ling’s popular Cocktail Hour range. Combining floral motifs and a pastel colour palette, the cards in the range have been designed with the women in your life in mind.

As well as these two range extensions, Ling are also releasing a brand-new line of adult age cards. Two Tone combines champagne and cocktail motifs with bright colour accents and striking gold foil.

The six gender neutral designs cover all the milestone ages from 18 through to 60.

01892 838574 | www.lingdesign.co.uk

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Roll up, roll up, the fabulous Circus range is in town! Launched earlier this year, this beautiful collection is inspired by the fun of the fairground. Printed on a luxury textured board and finished with embossing and a matte gold foil. Some cards also feature neon pink ink, and are supplied with a coordinating neon pink or metallic gold envelope, bringing the fun of the circus to life.

The range features 32 general birthday, relations and occasions as well as 16 festive Christmas cards.

Abacus Cards Belle is an elegant figurative range featuring beautifully illustrated feminine characters in a loose painterly style from Abacus. These stunning birthday designs have wide appeal and encompass an array of popular subjects including fashion, birthday toasts, celebratory balloons, pampering and birthday gifts. For an added touch of luxury, the designs feature intricate hot foiled details, decorative die-cut scalloped edges and a hand applied bow. These stunning designs feature front birthday captions presented in a 5 x 7 format, they are printed on a textured art board and are accompanied by a complementary bespoke printed envelope. Printed and hand finished in the UK, these gorgeous designs are a must have.

The Abacus sales team are furnished with samples of these fabulous new designs.

The Prime Minister is now the main feature of a new greetings card collection designed by illustrator and satirist, The Grey Earl.

Utilising The Grey Earl’s distinctive humour and illustrative style, each design ‘celebrates’ Boris’ most famous moments and wraps them up in a neat greeting card format, along with a conservative blue coloured envelope. It’s even received some attention after Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon was given one for her recent birthday.

Illustrator Jon Bishop, aka The Grey Earl, fills us in on his reasons for creating the collection, “Having dealt with Donald Trump with my previous card range (‘Ask Donald’), it felt like the right time to bring it home and focus in on our very own blonde leader. Personally, I feel it is a range of cards that Britain needs right now. Whether you’re a fan of BOJO or not, the designs offer a much-needed bit of laughter for a politically fatigued nation.”

www.abacuscards.co.uk | 01638 569 050

07973850321 | www.thegreyearl.com

The Grey Earl

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 13

COVER STORY DANILO

Danilo looks ahead

Following a tough few months, our attention turns to the remainder of 2020 and what hopefully will become a really positive 2021 with some exciting new licensed ranges.

Stranger Things

Father Ted Van Gogh Museum Dedicated to the prominent works of Vincent Van Gogh, Danilo are delighted to partner with the Van Gogh Museum.

More than 125 years after his death, he is still inspiring the next generation of artists around the world. The new official greetings card and gift wrap range will display some of Van Gogh’s most renowned and revered works of art. Danilo will be launching a full range of Official Van Gogh Museum greeting cards, gift wrap, calendars and diaries from Spring 2021.

This Irish sitcom was first aired from 1995 until 1998 and achieved critical acclaim with several BAFTA awards and still remains popular now.

The new greetings card range will utilise the show’s brilliant characters alongside renowned catch phrases to accommodate a number of different captions and designs. The new range will launch Spring 2021.

This ’80s sci-fi horror series has become a cult hit over the past few years, receiving over 35 award nominations and winning a Screen Actors Guild Award. The third season, released in July 2019, quickly cemented its place as the mostviewed Netflix original series in its first four days and a fourth season is in the works. A new range of Stranger Things greetings cards will be launching later this year, alongside the official Stranger Things 2021 Calendar and Diary range which will be in stock from Autumn.

Billie Eilish Billie first gained media attention in 2016 when she uploaded the song “Ocean Eyes” to SoundCloud, which was subsequently picked up by a record company. Billie has since become the youngest person and first woman to win the four main Grammy categories in the same year. Danilo have published the first official Billie Eilish 2021 calendar, with a range of greeting cards due to follow.

Brightside The Brightside brand, created by Rachel Bright with its distinctive ‘voice’ and look has proved to be very positive and successful since it was first created over 10 years ago. This fun range includes ‘silver-lining’ captions which aim to encourage, inspire, indulge and uplift and the new Brightside greetings card range will aim to do exactly that, helping people to send happy thoughts around the globe. The range will launch in Spring 2021.

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Next Year is set to become one of the biggest years for movies, with many of the planned 2020 movie launches being impacted by Covid-19 and now rescheduled for 2021. With that in mind, Danilo has pulled together a selection of hot movie card ranges ready to launch in 2021.

Minions 2 The loveable yellow minions are set to return in July 2021, with the new movie Minions 2: The Rise of Gru. The film tells the story of Gru’s twelve-year-old’s dream to become the world’s greatest supervillain and is expected to be one of the biggest movies of the year. The new ’70s style greetings card range is now available, with further cards and wrap launching in 2021. Plus, there will be an official 2022 calendar and diary range launching next year as well.

Spirit This popular Netflix TV series, which is based around three best friends and their horses, has had over 800k viewers since it launched and is the fastest growing girls brand, currently No.4 in the chart of Girls Toys licenses. The special feature film titled “Spirit Riding Free” is due for release in May 2021 and a fantastic range of colourful and vibrant Spirit greetings cards will be on offer to support this movie.

Paw Patrol From the UK’s No 1 preschool property comes the first ever Paw Patrol movie with rich CGI animation. Due for release on August 20th, 2021, this new movie will discover Chase’s origin story as well as include daring rescues and emotional moments.

The new official range will be launching next year, to coincide with the film.

My Little Pony 2 As the UK’s official No. 2 girls licensed property, My Little Pony continues to appeal to generation after generation.

The first movie was released in 2017, performing well at the box office, and now the second movie is set for release in September 2021. Although currently untitled, this CGI-based film will look to see the return of popular characters Twilight Sparkle and her five pony friends, the ‘Mane 6’ as well as some new characters. Next year, Danilo will be releasing a new range of updated My Little Pony greetings cards as well as an official 2022 calendar.

www.danilo.com | 01992 702 900

In other news…

Speaking of special anniversaries, originally launched in 1971, Mr Men will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary next year! Having sold over 100 million books worldwide, a new official range of greetings cards is in the works which will celebrate the brand’s strong nostalgic appeal as well as giving a fresh and modern edge to the design and captions. The range will be ready to launch in Q2 next year.

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JOHN RYAN RETAIL ENVIRONMENT

The Colour of Attention John Ryan looks at the impact colour has on shops, stock displays and how customers may react to the choices that are made.

E

ver thought about the effect pink and Kermit green, with all of them outlets vying for the attention of timecolour has on how you react to pressed commuters yet one store stands having been put through their retail things? For the most part shops above the rest and it is Paperchase. paces. These may not be your top tend to be fairly neutral, and the stock choices of colour, but the concept is It is a two-floor branch, brightly lit should do the work when it comes to worth considering as much as the actual and it’s yellow. On a dark evening, while making a store stand out. paint tone. waiting for a friend, I watched how Yet is something being missed? Head The other point is that changing the many people’s eyes headed towards the to an art gallery and the bigcolour of the walls is a low-cost means store. This is a shop name exhibitions have walls “Three of effecting a revamp that may lead that draws people that have been coloured to your store being noticed ahead of in, actually makes colours do for the purpose and are others. Current alternatives range from them feel warm and changed when the next one the job when expensive digital screens, to graphics for good and then lets comes along. them get on with the the walls or new mid-shop equipment. it comes Shops don’t have this All will cost more than a coat of paint business of buying to turning luxury as it’s difficult to and few are likely to prove quite as greeting cards. heads: yellow, Therefore, is redecorate on a regular striking in the effect they will have on hot pink and basis. That said, there are prospective shoppers. it worth looking those stores that take a I urge you to step beyond the confines Kermit green” at your store and chance with a single colour, considering whether of your store(s) and take a look from the running with it for a while. In 2018/2019 it might be improved in some way? outside in. Does your store draw the eye the Calvin Klein flagship on Madison or could more be done? The odds are Three colours do the job when it Avenue was bright yellow. It was almost heavy that the latter is the case. comes to turning heads: yellow, hot impossible to pass without looking in.

It’s gone now, but the number of column inches generated by its non-standard John Ryan is Stores Editor of Retail Week, a position he has held for appearance probably paid for the fit-out more than two decades, and managing director of Newstores, a daily and more. information service on what’s new in retail across the world.

Now head to London’s Victoria station. @newstores | www.newstores.co.uk | +44 7710 429926 There are a lot of shops and hospitality

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IN-FOCUS UK GREETINGS

UK Greetings Female Relations

Boofle SA Our latest refresh brings with it 22 new designs in the classic Boofle collection. A fresh colour palette and pretty patterning breathes new life into everyone’s favourite knitted dog! As well as reformatting best-selling looks, we’ve introduced lots of new fun poses too, including candles, champagne glasses and buckets of love. We’ve also introduced some new editorial, including the 365 days lovelier sentiment.

Thinking of You Week UK Greetings are delighted to be supporting this industry initiative founded by the GCA once again this year. Along with all the hype and support the GCA themselves are working on to promote the week and the importance of sending cards to raise a smile, UK Greetings have developed POS using the affiliated design originally created by Paper Salad to offer our Independents a small bespoke kit to promote a preselected assortment of designs perfect for this sending event.

We are providing the POS kit free with one of two assortments. Any retailers who are interested should get in touch with their sales representative or the UK Greetings customer service team at salesandservice@ukgreetings.co.uk.

There will be loads of activity on social media across all our platforms and we’ll be running two competitions where entrants can win a bundle of fabulous product.

Internally our colleagues will also be getting into the spirit of the week where they will be provided product for their selection and we’ll be covering the cost of the postage.

For more details on the event and how you can get involved visit www.thinkingofyouweek.cards/

UK Greetings are pleased to offer a fabulous new range of female captions that are available now.

The latest refresh offers a fresh and updated look to best-selling designs and an introduction of some brandnew looks.

The designs are not only beautiful and highly commercial they are balanced to offer great value for money. UKG are implementing many initiatives, working towards becoming a more sustainable business by engineering our cards in a specific way which means they no longer need a plastic cello bag, and we are also doing all that we can to remove glitter.

As part of the 40% refresh there is also an exciting introduction of the adorable new character Burdock, the big huggable bear, perfect for expressing warm wishes to the special ladies in your life.

Webshop T: 01924 465 200 www.ukgreetings.co.uk

Don’t forget to check out the UK Greetings webshop to see all of our products. Go to www.myukaccount.co.uk to register and take advantage of all the benefits and incentives on offer.

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 17

IN-FOCUS BELLY BUTTON DESIGNS

Belly Button Designs Togetherness and community have been the inspiration and essence behind the new contemporary greeting and giftware collection ‘Happy Days’. A collection that is very much of the time that we live in and one of 25 collections released in Belly Button Design’s 25th year of being in the greeting card business.

Hand drawn celebratory scenes of characterful people depict past familiarity and new norms to create a fresh and modern twist among designs.

Retailers will find this collection caters for all sends, from Birthdays through to milestone celebrations, engagement, new births and weddings - capturing the more intimate and personal affairs of the present, but still portraying a union that is fondly reflected upon as a memoir of someone’s ‘Happy Days’.

Unconventional pockets emerge within the collection that allows consumers to connect with themselves and others with no call for an occasion but merely to embrace traditional methods of communication, with designs playfully reminding us to – ‘Sleep, Rest, Recover’.

A collection that is very much The cards are produced to a high of the time that we live in and standard of quality in both design and one of 25 collections released production with their greeting card in Belly Button Design’s 25th signatory finishes of embossing and year of being in the greeting metallic foil flashes very much in the mix. card business.

The cards are 146mm x 146mm with a card clasp and no cello bag.

Happy Days

Printed on a new board produced by G.F Smith made from post-consumer coffee cup waste. “One of many considerations taken on the environment and the impact we play as a company,” said Rachel Hare, Creative Director and Belly Button Company Founder.

Happy Days from Belly Button Designs is available now. Contact sales@bellybuttondesigns.com or call 01619 020 200 for more information.

sales@bellybuttondesigns.com www.bellybuttondesigns.com T: 01619 020 200

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IN-FOCUS JOE DAVIES

Joe Davies With the cancellation of both trade fairs during the second half of the year, it’s the perfect opportunity to do your buying in comfort and safety with the Joe Davies team on hand to help and advise. Browse new collections and revisit their extensive range in readiness for the busy trading period, here’s a taster of what’s on offer......

The fabulous new “Nuzzles” collection of slipper socks from Joe Davies is a “must have” for Autumn/Winter 2020. Nuzzles have a super soft Sherpa fleece lining, ensuring your feet stay extra snuggly in the cold Winter evenings. Fun, on trend designs for all the family and all are machine washable, have non slip silicone soles and are available in ladies, men’s, kids and toddler sizes. The collection is available to order by design or on a free display stand; one for the adult selection and a smaller one for the kids and toddlers. What better way to maximise sales during the most important trading period of the year?

The Equilibrium jewellery collection is the UK’s hottest fashion jewellery brand. Up to the minute designs, indisputable quality, luxury branded packaging and affordability make this highly successful range a “staple” for many retailers and customers alike. Joe Davies have been working hard to ensure there are many new Equilibrium collections on offer for Autumn/Winter 2020 including the pretty “Rainbow Collection” which includes necklaces, earrings, brooches and bracelets; some hand painted and others featuring pretty coloured crystals.

The rainbow represents hope and a sense of community and during the course of lockdown it has become an iconic symbol the world over. Rainbows are a very popular trend so this really is a collection not to be missed.

The brand new Equilibrium “Chakra collection” of necklaces each with an element of natural quartz, takes its

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inspiration from the seven chakras which make up the main energy centres of the body. Each chakra has defining characteristics, elements and colours and these have been perfectly translated into stylish pieces of jewellery. This is a spiritual collection which gives focus to our state of balance - because when our chakras are aligned, our body, mind and spirit work in complete harmony.

Who would have thought that figurines that look like pebbles would feature in home decor? The eye-catching “Pebble Art” collection is a modern, contemporary range which captures this trend to perfection. The combination of a “craftstyle” look and sentimental messages really are a winning formula and when times are tough words from the heart are always a popular choice. There are heartfelt messages for mum, family, friends and much more, there really is something for everyone. What’s more this quirky collection is sure to raise a smile!

Metallic gold teamed with monochrome black and white is an on-going trend in home decor and the stylish new “Golden Sentiments” collection of ceramic hanging hearts has this trend covered. There are 24 inspiring messages available to order ensuring there is something to suit everyone, what’s more there is an attractive display stand allowing you to maximise on that valuable sales space. All this and a retail price point of around £6.00 makes this collection an ideal pick up line and a real winner for the busy selling period.

Joe Davies are well known in the industry for their trademark “Little & Often” ordering quantities and their amazing minimum order value of just £100, what’s more their friendly, helpful staff are waiting to welcome you to their showroom. So in the words of the Joe Davies team “Come and see us, we’re here to help!”

sales@joedavies.co.uk | www.joedavies.co.uk | 01619 756300

The At Home

1st-11th September (open every day) Manchester Showrooms 9am-5pm

Wireless Phone Chargers

Kooks Collection

Floral LED Candles

Angel Sentiment Stones

Leonardo Painted Gin Glasses

Scrabble Sentiments

Equilibrium® Purses

OPEN YOUR ONLINE ACCOUNT TODAY AT

www.joedavies.co.uk Equilibrium® Sentiment Jewellery

Drinks On Me Coasters

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

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

2020 07 - Greetings Today FP NEW SIZE.indd 1

24/07/2020 14:55:07

COVER STORY KALI STILEMAN IN-FOCUS CHERRY ORCHARD

Cherry Orchard

“

It's a slow return to a new normal, but it’s been wonderful to see the way people have pulled together and hopefully we can continue to look out for one another, keeping each other safe and in good spirits.

”

On April 1, 2020 Cherry Orchard marked the 25th anniversary of the business. It wasn’t how they’d planned. With plenty to look forward to this year, they had made lots of plans to celebrate and mark the milestone, but then along came a global pandemic and everything was put on hold. The team were furloughed and Jackie Collins, owner and co-founder of the business found herself taking calls, placing orders and parcelling hundreds of catalogues.

Jackie found the experience very humbling and although it was difficult circumstances that brought the telephone conversations into play, Jackie said, “During the weeks of lockdown I had so many wonderful chats with customers, it was so lovely to reconnect with so many and to share experiences and concerns not just on the business front but personally too. I even had a call from as far afield as Spain with the older generation desperate to want to be able to find a source of finding cards. That had a really big impact on me whilst working alone. It made me realise how much friendship and support makes such a difference when we’re going through troubled times and I feel that Thinking of You Week will be extra poignant this year as people look for a way to say thank you for being there. The GCA has done wonderful work to promote card giving and Thinking of You. I wanted to offer a collection that let people show how much they care and appreciate the support that we can all give one another. It makes such a difference receiving something in the post and it’s a small gesture that has a big impact.”

As we start to move out of lockdown and the shops are opening their doors with masks, safe distance markings and hand sanitiser all in place, the team thought it would be nice to run a shop window competition to mark Thinking of You Week. We’re offering a £250 M&S voucher to the best shop window display – just email your photos to helen@cherryorchardpublishing. co.uk or send them through to their Facebook page at facebook.com/cherryorchardp.

Cherry Orchard are still keeping an eye on Government guidance and for the time being they’re accepting orders in the office by email on info@cherryorchardpublishing. co.uk or call them on 01684 295 500. They’re also taking lots of orders on the website at cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk. You’ll need to hold a trade account to be able to set up an online account, but the whole process is quick and easy and if you’d like to open an account, you can email info@cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk and they’ll send you the relevant information to get started.

T: 01684 295 500 www.cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk

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The New

Normal

High Streets and retail were already under pressure but a global pandemic and lockdown caused even more strain for some. We spoke to a number of retailers to see how they coped while their beloved shops were closed and how things are going since stores reopened.

Denise Laird Spirito, Glasgow Did you continue to trade in some capacity during lockdown while your shop was closed? If so, how?

Unfortunately, we weren’t trading online during lockdown, it is something I wish I had done sooner. When we returned it was one of our main priorities, so we have managed to launch our e-commerce website recently.

helpful especially one hosted by Caroline Gardner.

What has been the biggest change or challenge you’ve noticed since you have reopened your store?

The biggest change has been limiting the number of customers in the shop at any one time to maintain social distancing having customers wait outside with the West of Scotland weather is a concern for me although the customers have been very understanding and we have been managing it as best we can. A major challenge has been not being able to restock as the supply chain for some of our suppliers has been disrupted and has not quite recovered in some cases.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products/lines that you previously didn’t sell?

How did you cope during lockdown?

I decided to close the shop a few days before the Lockdown. The day we closed It was so sad, I had spent 20 years trying to attract customers into the shop and it did not feel good to close the door. During lockdown I coped well by keeping busy at home and also managed to have the store redecorated inside and out as lockdown restrictions started to ease as well as lots of other maintenance and upgrades that are very difficult to carry out when trading 7 days a week. I also joined in a number of zoom workshops with many of our suppliers which were really good and very

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Prior to lockdown we would not have expected that face coverings and hand sanitiser would become best-selling products. Plant pots and interior accessories have also become very popular as everyone has had a little more time to grow plants and make some home improvements.

How are you finding the ‘new normal’?

The new normal is what it is and we are doing fine and I have been trying to operate as normal as we can. I find I’m more focused on here and now a lot more, reacting and adapting. I think the future is difficult to predict, buying ahead is more challenging without the trade fairs and predicting trends.

Andrea Tripp The Card Shop, Staple Hill Did you continue to trade in some capacity during lockdown while your shop was closed? If so, how?

Not during full lockdown as I didn’t see the requests for balloons as essential trade or travel. When the first part of lockdown eased, I did a few deliveries from Facebook messages, but less than a handful. I had thought about online trading before Covid and again when it was approaching but I have decided to focus my all on running my shop to the very best of my ability rather than investing 000s with uncertain return on investment, and also not running myself ragged and doing neither to their best.

How did you cope during lockdown?

As a shop I got a grant and was able to furlough one of my two staff.

Unfortunately, a new lady missed the furlough deadline. I paid her for April but then we agreed she would ‘sit tight’. Personally, I focussed on my kids and family but it was very stressful at times, other times it was lovely having unexpected time together.

What has been the biggest change or challenge you’ve noticed since you have reopened your store?

Lower footfall, having to enforce all the Covid-19 safety measures, particularly reminding people to not push past each other, put their masks on etc.

How are you finding the ‘new normal’ in retail?

Challenging but I anticipate all the measures will be in place for some time, anxious about how we will manage numbers as we approach Christmas, and people having to wait outside in bad weather.

Kathleen Swift Gayle McCartney The Little Gift Shop, Beith I reopened 10-3. I’m in a really small Scottish town, we don’t have many shops, but I’ve been really lucky, it’s transformed my wee business, although I’m hoping the bubble won’t burst!

Aga Gabrysiak Highworth Emporium Did you continue to trade in some capacity during lockdown while your shop was closed? If so, how?

We carried on working sending online orders and delivering local orders usually placed via Facebook or phone. This is how we sold the majority of our Easter stock which was great! There was one member of staff in the shop every day to deal with all enquiries and deliveries. In the meantime, we finalised our own website, which went live in May and we’re focusing on pushing online sales as well as click & collect for local customers.

How did you cope during lockdown?

Personally – as busy as normal working on our website. I was looking at photos of people having a clearance at home, immaculate gardens, etc., and I was not one of them lol.

Though we did get a puppy – a lovely yellow lab, something we always wanted but old ‘normal’ didn’t allow us to do so. Business wise – we got a government grant really quickly, so that helped a lot and most of our staff were furloughed, though we rotated them every 3 weeks for their sanity. And we had weekly zoom meetings and sent Easter parcels to them and tried to stay as positive as possible. It is fair to say that the weather helped a lot!

What has been the biggest change or challenge you’ve noticed since you have reopened your store?

I think the biggest, especially in the beginning, was navigating the traffic in the shop and policing the number of customers. We have a very awkward shop layout so not everything is obvious and not everywhere can you keep 2m or even 1m distance, so that was challenging to start with. And then we all got used to it so that seems to be working ok. We have not got any issues re sanitising hands or gloves, everyone is very willing to do so. A few challenges regarding not accepting cash payments but again nothing major. Managing the shop is definitely more difficult – topping up shelves and tiding up cards is almost impossible to do with social distancing. So, we are keeping our opening hours shorter but we actually coming to the shop an hour earlier to do the basic things around the shop when customers are not around.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products/lines that you previously didn’t sell?

Obviously face coverings – and we’ve sold tonnes of them! Mainly Eco Chic and Zelly.

Also hand sanitisers, but not a great amount.

How are you finding the ‘new normal’ in retail?

It is slightly challenging but actually not too bad. We find people want to support small local businesses more, therefore shop local is stronger than ever and that is good news for us. I am not seeing as many reps, probably some of them are still on furlough, and the ones I am seeing we do early meetings before the shop opens or phone/zoom meetings.

The most difficult thing for me personally is lack of trade shows. Because if that I don’t think I am ready for Christmas yet! Lol! Though Xmas deliveries started arriving already.

Kennedy’s Gifts, Kirkcudbright

Did you continue to trade in some capacity during lockdown while your shop was closed?

If so, how? (Online, Facebook, Delivery services etc) We closed for 14 weeks as per government guidance.

How did you cope during lockdown?

We stayed at home catching up on long-promised DIY projects.

What has been the biggest change or challenge you’ve noticed since you have reopened your store?

No change to speak of other than local shoppers distancing themselves from tourists due to the pandemic.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products/ lines that you previously didn’t sell?

We are doing brisk trade in reusable and disposable face masks.

How are you finding the ‘new normal’ in retail?

The wearing of face masks and hand sanitising has now become an accepted part of retail.

Anything else to add?

We are apprehensive about the forthcoming winter trade after the tourist season ends.

We reopened doing 10 to 3 six days a week. With the banks closing early and all the restrictions in place, shopping is no longer fun and sales have declined markedly.

Our footfall in the shopping centre is still about 40%-50% down.

Scott Taylor www.greetingstoday.co.uk 25

Terrys, Wigan

The New Normal Philip Downe

Calliope Gifts, Dorking

Julia Keeling,

Wishes of Cudworth Did you continue to trade in some capacity during lockdown while your shop was closed? If so, how?

We’ve always been a bricks and mortar shop rather than online and felt the safest thing to do was to listen to Boris and to Stay Safe and Stay Home. With that in mind we decided to close completely and take a break.

How did you cope during lockdown?

Did you continue to trade during lockdown while your shop was closed? If so, how?

Andy Adamson and I removed all the greetings cards from our shops and took them home. We also selected specific ranges that we thought (a) might appeal to people spending more time at home and (b) were easy to post in standard size packages. We removed everything from our website that wasn’t available from the “home warehouse”, so that we were only offering what we could supply, and we added free local delivery to our offer, as click-andcollect was no longer appropriate. We also opened up an eBay channel which gave us much greater reach on many non-card ranges, albeit at the cost of additional eBay/PayPal charges. We also stayed busy and visible through social media.

How did you cope during lockdown?

Dealing with online and continuing to manage the business kept us occupied. Obviously, we also had to observe scrupulous hygiene in dealing with the goods we were selling.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve noticed since you have reopened your store?

Fewer browsers. Partly because of the limits on people permitted into the shops. However, it’s also been apparent that customers are shopping far more specifically than before – they are on a mission to buy a gift or card, they may well have looked it up on the website beforehand. There is less “browsing for ideas”, and more “shopping with a purpose”.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products/lines that you previously didn’t sell?

Masks, unsurprisingly. Otherwise we are dealing with selling through our SS20 ranges across a shorter time-span to a more limited customer-base, so it’s been better to provide “tried-and-tested” than go off in new directions. Obviously not a position that’s sustainable forever, but it gets us through this season.

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We did Joe Wicks in the morning, walked every trail where we lived for our once a day exercise and got some very suspicious looks from our pet rabbits wondering why we were spending so much time in their garden.

The lovely sunshine helped too.

Of course, it was very difficult not to worry and having built up Wishes over a number of years the uncertainty did trouble us. But we decided to look at the positives and so did a stock take, cleaned the shop and started prepping. We focused on getting ready to re-open by producing new guidance posters, creating a one-way system, stocking up on hand sanitiser and buying a new counter screen. We even got a sparkly new shop sign which we’d ordered pre-lockdown so that was nice to have in place. Ultimately, in this situation it helped to be proactive on the few things we could control and try and have a positive outlook.

What has been the biggest change or challenge you've noticed since you have reopened your store?

Cash payments are way down and this may be a signal of what's to come.

Are we moving towards a cashless society? Naturally, card payments are up and it didn’t help when our card reader recently stopped working and then we were informed it could be a month before a replacement would be available. Luckily, I found a solution but it did add to the stress – ahhh!

Getting hold of stock is a little difficult, especially partywear like balloons, with some lines sold out. Understandable Reps and Companies are not as easy to reach with people working from home.

I have seen a drop in footfall from my older customers and there’s still some confusion about wearing masks/face coverings for people with medical conditions.

On the whole though people have been supportive and understanding.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products/lines that you previously didn't sell?

I resisted stocking face masks at first, thinking they’d be the new fidget spinners, with everyone selling them but people kept asking so I got a small order to try from History & Heraldry. They did really well and I’m already on my second order.

Card wise, we've not gone for any great changes as we know what our customers like and expect from us. Pizazz by Nigel Quiney are our constant good sellers and the new Botanical range is just beautiful. Simple yet sweet with a three-layer design that gives a great 3D effect. Another new card range, Fantastic by Kingfisher is doing really well. A great size card that really hits the spot for those teens when you’re not quite sure what age they are or what interests they have. For us it’s not about fads, politics or current events but rather offering our customers the cards they love and couldn’t get elsewhere when we had to close.

Moving forward I’m being cautious and it’s going to be little but often at the moment. Christmas will be out sooner rather than later too!

Sarah Holmes Pencil Me In, Elgin Did you continue to trade during lockdown?

We are very lucky that we have had an online shop for a few years now, a few weeks prior to lockdown my amazing employee Claire and I began loading up all the single cards onto the site to prep ourselves so that almost everything we sell was online.

How did you cope during lockdown?

I furloughed Claire and began working in the business again, what felt like 24/7. My husband was on garden leave so thankfully could handle the childcare which allowed me to work when I wanted or needed to (and enjoy those sunny days together in our garden). I have had a member of staff for four years so it felt odd being right back in the thick of it, but I also think that was good.

Our online percentage is usually around 10-15% of turnover and that

grew to 50% during lockdown plus we picked up new wholesale customers (Somehow??) for our pencil printing business.

What has been the biggest challenge since you have reopened your store?

Maintaining the momentum of those online customers is a challenge but has been the change for us as we are now doing about 35% turnover online but also seeing an increase in spend in store. We have been very busy, at first there were no browsers but when tourism opened up in Scotland in mid-July we saw a shift change.

Since reopening, are you offering any different products or lines?

Due to increase in online sales during lockdown we had capacity to bring in new designers, Mean Mail, Alison

Carl Dunne Cards & Gifts Sheffield Did you continue to trade during lockdown?

Initially I used the time to adjust the store, get stock take done as well as my year end. It wasn’t until they announced the second three weeks that my partner couldn’t listen to me complain anymore and overnight, had me online. Our praise to Cherry Orchard, UKG, ICG, Nigel Quiney and Carte Blanche’s fast response with pictures within a few hours of asking. Thank goodness we operate on EPOS and having just done a stock take, it was relatively easy to get everything online. We just needed to work out the Shopify interface. So, the remainder of lockdown was spent doing home delivery and preparing for the delayed shop two!

Since reopening, are you offering any different products?

Face coverings, Hand Sanitiser, Sanitary Wipes are all new to both stores. In our Dronfield store I added plants and flowers. These are going down a storm and I find myself at the flower market most mornings. The other surprising thing is the thirst for balloon sculptures and arches. We opened Dronfield with an arch and since then we have bookings coming out of our ears. I worked on balloon art during lockdown, which is giving us just about one order every day. I think since parties are having to take place in smaller settings, people are wanting to go for a bigger wow factor!

How are you finding the 'new normal' in retail?

I’ve always been anti-social so keeping 2 metres away from everyone was nothing new to me. No seriously it shouldn’t be taking this long for things to get back to normal. Though as common sense is needed to keep everyone safe, and the lack thereof in the public, has resulted in a slow start. I see the ads about “restart”, referring to health and losing weight and wonder when the government will help the high street out and encourage people to come and spend again.

Hardcastle for cards, and we jumped on the Folding Crate band wagon!

How are you finding the 'new normal' in retail?

Our customers have been great with mask wearing and sanitising, no difficult conversations. We had some fun pencil and stationery masks made for us in the shops so if we need to pop out to talk customers through products we are on brand! I guess we are relieved to be back open and busy - we feel well supported.

Sarah Laker Stationery Supplies, Marple In the land of stationery all is going well.

Customers are returning, many of them have waited for me to reopen instead of buying online. I've had many compliments of my social media during lockdown, people have appreciated my upbeat community-based approach and how I've conveyed my Covid safety measures.

Several customers have made their first shopping trip out to my shop as they knew they'd feel safe due to watching the videos I made for social media. People working from home who normally shop in the city centre are shopping locally and so it's been great to see new faces.

July saw an increase in footfall, an amazing 50% increase in card sales and a 40% increase in sales overall compared to July '19. August is on a par with last year too. Face coverings have sold like crazy and I've noticed an increase in the sale of humorous cards. I think everyone needs something to make them smile right now.

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 27

IN-FOCUS ROSANNA ROSSI

Rosanna Rossi

‘Little cards of joy’ are how the latest range of Rosanna Rossi cards have been described, and that’s exactly what the team were trying to achieve.

Beautiful illustrations alongside fresh, rainbow pops of colour. It is a little bit of happiness in a card, that is sure to brighten the recipient’s day.

There are now even more birthday and occasion titles to choose from within the ‘Fiori Rosa’ collection. The fun, vibrant, cheerful designs are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face and the zesty colour palette garners many a shopper’s browsing eye. The cards in the range are 150mm x 150mm and they are all enhanced with emboss detail.

The team have also added further extensions within the ‘Kirra Mini’ range with sympathetic titles for those who need it most. In this charming range, each card is finished with satin gold foil and emboss detail. Cards measure 125mm x 125mm.

To see more of the new designs the other available ranges, visit www. rosanna-rossi.co.uk.

T: 07900 698 522 www.rosanna-rossi.co.uk

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IN-FOCUS STARLET CHARLOTTE

StarletCharlotte: Bringing joy through colour!

Charlotte Willoughby-Paul is a painter and printmaker based in York.

She launched her StarletCharlotte range of Fine Art cards in 2015, as an affordable way for people to share and collect her creations.

University and loved it so much that she has stayed in the city ever since.

Charlotte attended her first Greetings Card trade fair with Prince’s Youth Business Trust in 1997 and has since illustrated children’s books and designed cards for charities.

She now sells her highly sought after original artworks in galleries across Yorkshire and at Open Studio events. Charlotte supports two charities through the sales of her paintings; Action For M.E. and York Inspirational Kids. Her Fine Art cards are often sold alongside her original artwork and prints, for people to frame and keep.

There is a distinctive style to her dream-like paintings. Using bright flashes of colour, Charlotte uses her love of animals and a childhood spent roaming the woodlands in West Berkshire to inspire her beautiful designs. She also visits the east coast often to paint seascapes and colourful fishing boats. She creates likable, unique pieces that range from whimsical, cheerful, funny and reflective. As such, these bespoke cards can be used for any occasion.

Charlotte first came to York in 1990 to study art and music at York St John

Charlotte has used her time in lockdown to focus her creativity and is now launching her new range of Fine Art cards that aim to bring joy in difficult times. She decided to share a new painting every day on social media during lockdown, with the aim of spreading positivity and hope by bringing a daily splash of colour to people’s lives. Although a lot of hard work, the response to this initiative has been fantastic and has boosted awareness and a love of her work.

Charlotte’s Fine Art cards are 148mm square and are supplied with a plain white envelope. They are ideal for a general note card or a special occasion.

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“ I really believe that art can bring a sense of creativity and joy to people, even in the darkest of times.

When I get inspired, I appreciate the little things around me and I hope that others can feel my ‘song of colour’ within the images that I paint.”

All StarletCharlotte products are made using high quality FSC certified card, responsibly sourced from sustainable forests. If we use bags they are made from cornstarch and are fully compostable, protecting the planet for future generations.

At StarletCharlotte we make a wide range of inspirational fine art cards that can be used for all occasions.

Our colourful designs are printed on FSC certified card, to keep both the recipient and the planet smiling! starletcharlotte@gmail.com 07554 366 306 www.folksy.com/shops/StarletCharlotte

IN-FOCUS CAROUSEL CALENDARS

Carousel Calendars We all know it has been a tough year so far, for everyone, including publishers, printers, wholesalers and retailers. We all hope that the retail environment improves as we move through the latter half of the year and we at Carousel Calendars are staying positive and doing our best to be prepared for it.

As such we have been very active, and while our order levels are down, we’ve done our best to publish as much as we can and have only cancelled titles where volumes were extremely low.

It’s been busy getting organised, particularly with the extra challenges of working with all of our staff at home

and many of our licensing partners and clients working from home as well, yet overall the numbers are still looking healthy.

Plastic-Free Packaging Our commitment to reducing the use of plastic in our products has increased, and will continue to increase. Beginning with a small trial involving a handful of 2020-dated products, now over 200 of our 2021 titles will have plastic-free packaging or be plastic free entirely.

The reduction has come from the development of new wrap-around covers, which replace shrink-wrap packaging, as well as changing our

box calendar stands from plastic to cardboard – this move alone resulted in a four-tonne reduction.

Response to these changes, from the licensors, customers and the end buyers, has all been very positive. Plastic use is a hot topic at the moment and it’s great to see everyone along the supply process is getting on board with making these important changes. In the same way, we are trying to increasingly influence and support others in the calendar business to implement such environmental endeavours.

Carbon Footprint Plastic isn’t the only issue – reducing our carbon footprint is every bit, if not more, important.

As a Group, we have put together a team dedicated to this issue.

Changes we’ve sought to implement include major steps like switching our power sources to renewable electricity and bio diesel, and installing LED lighting in the warehouse, as well as smaller changes like optimising all power settings, re-setting light motion sensors and changing our lease cars to hybrid/electric to minimise our emissions.

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The 2021 range in numbers: ■ ■

■

Our focus is on: ■ ■ ■ ■

■ ■ ■ ■

5.7 million – the number of units on order 854 titles being published – including titles published in other territories and our own brand titles 1,298 titles being distributed – our own products plus titles we distribute for our key publishing partners 289 regional titles in the range 148 dog titles in the range 264 licensed titles in the range 223 products with no plastic product packaging

inimising our power consumption M Accurate monitoring of our electricity usage Changing to renewable electricity and bio diesel Offsetting what emissions are left using a Gold Standard and ICROA alliance company

Manufacturing While we’re making every effort to minimise and offset our carbon footprint, even more important is reducing and eventually offsetting our third-party scope 3 emissions – caused by manufacturing paper products around the world.

Our ambitious aims here are to encourage a move to renewables across our supply base, with a similar carbon reduction scheme, and then to offset a percentage of emissions ourselves on behalf of our suppliers.

We have also stepped up our auditing to SMETA 4-pillar so we can monitor our suppliers power usage and updating of renewables, as well as other environmental factors.

T: 01392 826 482 carouselcalendars.com

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 33

IN-FOCUS COLLINS DEBDEN

Collins Debden New Trade Website Collins have been busy launching their new Trade Website, allowing trade customers to purchase directly from the Collins website.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for customers to order directly from us,” said Collins Managing Director Shahrazz Hayat.

On the new Trade website, users can view all Collins products with their trade discount already applied to products. They just need to add what they want to their basket and either pay by card there and then, or pay by proforma when convenient.

“With the changing landscape of business and workforces,” added Shahrazz, “we had to adapt to offer flexibility and convenience for our customers. Once they have registered for our trade site, they can place orders quickly and easily, and receive their orders quicker than ever.”

To set up your Collins Trade Website account, just go to uk.collinsdebden.com/trade and enter your details, it’ll only take a minute!

Collins New 2021 Range Now Available Collins new 2021 Diary Collection is its most diverse and exciting yet, with brand new cover designs, materials and layouts.

“Collins continues to evolve towards becoming the enviable lifestyle brand,” said Collins Marketing Manager Richard Sloan.

“With our stylish new ranges perfectly complementing our staple business diary and stationery ranges that made the Collins name so well-known and respected.”

The new Kalos, Aura, Edge Camo and Natura ranges are all accompanied by matching notebook and stationery products which will make great displays and perfect add-on sales opportunities for retailers.

Mindfulness Collins are also continuing to highlight the benefits of journaling and writing as a means of helping our mental health and mindfulness. During the lockdown months these were key issues, hence Collins’ #StayWriteAtHome campaign, encouraging us to use our notebooks as tools for mindfulness through the likes of gratitude journaling and meditation.

“Lockdown may be easing but ental health remains a huge theme for us” explains Richard, “with our diaries, notebooks and especially on our website, where we have a whole series of blogs about mindful journaling. Pouring your anxieties and sorrows, your fears and worries, and your joys and amusements onto a blank page can be immensely therapeutic. The blank page in your (Collins) journal can be a non-judgmental friend, a confidante, a buddy, a casual acquaintance or brutally honest critique…it can be anything you want it to be.”

T: 01413 008 500 www.collinsdebden.co.uk

34 www.greetingstoday.co.uk

IN-FOCUS ARDEA

Ardea Christmas is coming, the Hedgehog is getting fat!

The lockdown may have delayed many things, but it isn’t stopping the approach of Christmas. So, the digital wizards at Ardea have been keeping themselves busy preparing for everyone getting back to work by producing some great new Christmas designs which are available for licensing as cards and other merchandise.

You can see a sneak preview here or search for “Christmas” at www.ardea.com

T: 02083 181 401 www.ardea.com

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 35

IN-FOCUS MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Museums & Galleries Museums & Galleries is proud to announce a brand-new range of face coverings developed in collaboration with its national museum licenses and showcasing works of art and design from the museum collections, available for pre-order immediately.

The coverings have a suggested retail price of £9.99. These face coverings are only the company’s second foray into fabric-based products (after the success of their pencil cases launched at the Spring Fair) and M&G is thrilled with the superb quality of the colour printing and construction of the coverings.

The face coverings are made out of 100% cotton, pleated and cut for a better facial fit. They are digitally printed with a full-colour design on the front and contrast colour on the reverse with adjustable elastic straps. The coverings have a pocket for filters and come with a matching cotton bag for hygienic storage. They are machine washable at 60 degrees.

The coverings have a suggested retail price of £9.99

The range offers 12 different designs, the majority of which come from the national museums. William Morris’s ‘Strawberry Thief’, Edward Lear’s colourful ‘Birds’ and Owen Jones’s ‘Moresque’ all come from the V&A; the Natural History Museum showcases beautiful mineral designs as well as dinosaurs; Turner, Mondrian and Norman Adam’s ‘Rainbow Painting’ come from the Tate Gallery, and ‘The Great Wave’ and ‘Cranes’ by Hokusai come from the British Museum. Wild Press’ delicate fern fever design, launched on stationery by M&G this spring, makes the twelfth

design. All the designs have been carefully selected on the basis of suitability for the product and commercial track record on other products in the range.

With coverings now recommended by the authorities in shops and public transport, we will all be wearing face coverings for the foreseeable future. M&G’s range offers the chance to do so in style.

The full range is available in a counter top display unit.

www.museumsgalleries.co.uk sales@mgmk.co.uk T: 01373 462 165

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The finest arts brands. Covered.

An exclusive range of 12 licensed Face Coverings for delivery in early Sept ‘20 – Available for pre-order!

Please contact your local agent, register online or call our sales team for more information.

E: sales@mgml.co.uk Tel: 01373 462165 The home ofmuseumsgalleries.co.uk the finest arts brands

museumsgalleries.co.uk Tel: 01373 462165 Home of the finest arts brands

E: sales@mgml.co.uk

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IN-FOCUS EMMA BALL

Emma Ball We have been extremely busy throughout lockdown and beyond here at Emma Ball, with many tasks been juggled between Emma and Lucy before all staff members returned back to work.

Social media was a game changer for us in lockdown, Emma spent hours upon hours building up a collection of daily ‘things to do’ posts along with online jigsaws, which helped promote the brand in addition to allowing followers to have a daily fix! Since lockdown was lifted, the daily posts have become a blog about our stockists, posting Social media pictures of their shop, more about the brand, and was a game where our followers can find them if they would like to shop local. The response from our following changer has been fantastic, and has been really lovely to for us in see comments of people actually going to visit after lockdown seeing our post.

So, what’s new with us? We have just signed off a range of six face-coverings, featuring Emma’s most popular designs with an RRP of £8.95. They have three cotton protective layers (but are light so you don’t feel that they are there) and have a shape to them that doesn’t actually make you feel like you’re being ‘smothered’!! Most importantly, these are handmade in the UK, and both mask and packaging are fully biodegradable – UK manufacturing and protecting the environment are huge points for us as a brand. These will be in stock within the next few weeks and pre-orders are coming in thick and fast.

Another design that came about from lockdown, is our new Menu planner- an A4 tear off weekly pad, with an incorporated shopping list for you to become more organised when doing online – this range is being expanded over the your weekly shop. We also launched a next few months. rainbow magnetic notepad, which has Our Bauble Cards are back in stock over been popular with both stockists and the next few weeks, having originally sold out quickly. These 5” x 5” cards make the perfect Christmas Wishes for someone special, with a detachable melamine bauble gift to hang on a tree. These have an RRP of £4.50, and are also manufactured in the UK. Our best-selling Christmas card packs, RRP £2.95 for six cards (what a bargain!) are back, featuring seven new designs from Susie Lacome and Shelly Perkins. We still have a limited stock of our single Christmas Cards for your relations too.

Lastly, our award-winning Cornwall and Coastal calendars are now in, and selling fast. These both tend to sell out by the end of October, so please get in touch to avoid being disappointed.

Just to finish on sending an absolutely huge thank you for our stockists’ continuous support, it means the world to us.

T: 01159 858 081 www.emmaball.co.uk

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Shop Talk Greetings retailers tell it how it is....

Jemma Guilmard, Just Delights, Cornwall How did you get into retail?

Mum and I started Just Delights in 2006 after I finished university in Cornwall.

When we first started, we only did a few cards to complement our home and gift sales but as we have gone on over the years, our card sales are very strong and keep us going.

Did you continue to operate during lockdown, if so, how?

We only did a little bit during lockdown, just a few local sales. I’m looking to do more online as not all of our customers feel comfortable to come into the shops, and some click & collect too.

How has trading been since retail reopened?

Things have been really good at the moment but it might change next

month as things return to normal with kids back at school. I heard someone say we could have two months of Christmas followed by 12 months of Januarys but I’m hopeful this isn’t the case. Local holiday lets are booked out for some time so fingers crossed the holiday trade continues for us.

What are the best & worst thing about working in retail?

The best thing working in retail is our customers - without them and their support, we wouldn’t be here trading today. We have a strong local following and also regular visits from customers who holiday several times of year in Cornwall and it’s always lovely to have a chat and a catch up with everyone.

The worst thing working in retail for me is this trend of customers rating shops and businesses all the time. In business, we all try so hard to help and please all our customers so you can’t but

How do trade magazines like Greetings Today help you?

We love getting our trade magazines - great way to see new products but also to hear how other retailers are getting on. It helps to know that you’re not alºne and the articles are great source of reassurance and advice.

40 www.greetingstoday.co.uk

not take it personally when you get a negative review and I know it shouldn’t but it does affect me a lot.

What is in your window at the moment?

We have a bit of a tropical theme in the window at the moment, we’re trying to keep things Summery with bright colours, some parasols and other lovely things.

What cards are selling well in your store at the moment?

This is hard with so many to choose from and they are all so lovely. A few companies we are doing well with at the moment are: Laura Sherratt, Raspberry Blossom and Rosanna Rossi - I think because they are cheerful and bright.

Rosie Made A Thing has some lockdown theme ones that are doing well too.

What card range or category do you always ensure you keep in stock because of its popularity?

The card range we top up the most at the moment is Rosie Made A Thing’s humorous cards. Our customers love them.

Andy & Denise Ross Suttles of Malden New Malden, Greater London How did you get into retail?

We took over the family business in 2009.

Did you continue to operate during lockdown, if so, how?

Yes. We took orders via email and social media and delivered three days a week.

How has trading been since retail reopened?

The first week was like the last week, Xmas came early. Since then the shop has performed well keeping in line or just ahead of last year, our commercial business is sluggish and our print busines is just starting to pick up.

What are the best & worst thing about working in retail?

Being a part of the community is the best and working six-day weeks is the worst.

What is in your window at the moment?

A varied and colourful display of the different products we stock from TY Flippable mermaids to Cross Pens and Leuchtturm notebooks and Back to School, all colour coordinated with a splash of greetings cards too.

What is your favourite item in store?

Our recently delivered Leuchtturm embossing machine, but a ‘for sale’ item would be Sushi Post it notes from Wholesale Stationery.

What is the most surprising thing a customer has said or done?

My heart skipped a beat when I first met the original owner and she cut her leg on a stand and I had to administer first aid.

Have you had any strange requests for something on a card and did you have the stock to meet the customer’s needs?

Yes, but we always offer an in-house bespoke printed card to solve the problem from our printshop out the back.

What card range or category do you always ensure you keep in stock because of its popularity?

Art Angels especially Angie Lewin and Second Nature Paper Dazzle.

If you could send anyone a card from the past or present, who would it be and why?

My late grandad, just to hear yet more wisdom from a great man who is sorely missed.

How do trade magazines like Greetings Today help you?

In a very insular world where we don’t have time to get out and see what the competition is doing it’s a useful window/crystal ball.

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 41

IN-FOCUS JONNY JAVELIN

Jonny Javelin

“

The design team have been working hard for the last five months and we have lots of new products in the pipeline.

”

Well I’m trying to work out in my head if the year has gone fast or slow. The years generally seem to be going faster anyway and, in this industry, we’re constantly looking for the next season.

But although you would think with everything grinding to an almighty halt in March, time would seemingly slow down, yet here we are in September and Christmas is well and truly in sight for the Greeting Card world. Jonny Javelin kept going through the lockdown period and it was good to do so (although I still never got to clear my office - maybe next year!) but things have really picked up again for us since June.

The design team have been working hard for the last five months and we have lots of new products in the pipeline. It’s a difficult decision as to when to release it into the market place but the general feeling is that the shops are understandably keeping things very tightly controlled at present.

It’s still an uncertain world out there and no-one really knows where this is going or what might happen in the next 12 months. Releasing new products would certainly not have the impact it normally would as retailers concentrate on what they know sells and products that they trust.

Hence all the hard work of the design team would be somewhat wasted. We think it would be better to wait until the mood is more optimistic and confidence has returned.

We have been working on extending our key ranges: Velvet, Signature and Fudge and will be looking forward to releasing some fresh titles in these ranges in January 2021. However, we had planned this year to renew our range of Velvet ‘Caring and Sympathy’ cards in November 2020 and this will still happen. After five years, we thought renewing rather than reprinting again would be welcomed.

And then in the new year, we will be releasing new Fudge main relations, new Signature Occasions and Teen Ages, new Velvet Anniversaries and Caption Ages and a whole new Wedding package! There’ll be lots to go at!

But first, we all hope that we can get through the latter half of the year successfully, with a Christmas season that isn’t further hindered by the virus and then 2021 can see the back of Covid-19, and a return to a normal shopping environment for our wonderful retailers.

T: 01423 563 740 www.jonnyjavelin.co.uk

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Our Christmas Cards are in stock and being delivered now to our wonderful customers.

If you haven’t ordered your Christmas then it’s NEVER too late!

Give us a ring!

New customers are warmly welcome!

IN-FOCUS NATURAL PARTNERS

Natural Partners

Natural Partners have been busy during lockdown, adding two new greeting card ranges to their extensive collection, which now includes work from more than fifty artists and photographers.

The first, by Norfolkbased artist Kate Green, features 52 beautiful cards inspired by the abundance of wildlife around her home, which is just 15-minutes’ walk from the sea.

The second, a smaller range of 15 cards is by Hampshire artist, Wendy Brown. Her work is inspired by classic illustrations from the Golden Age of Children’s Literature and will appeal to the young and old alike.

All Natural Partners’ greeting cards, along with lots of fine art prints, can be seen on the company’s website (www.naturalpartnersart.co.uk), where retailers can register with the trade part of the site and order online.

To be kept up-to-date with new releases and hear about occasional discount offers to trade customers, just email your details to joe@naturalpartnersart.co.uk and you will be added to the mailing list.

T: 07714 768 956 www.naturalpartnersart.co.uk

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or a Looking f nge of diverse ra reeting quality g cards?

www.naturalpartnersart.co.uk With more than 1,250 designs reproducing original works by 51 talented artists and photographers, Natural Partners offer a one-stop shop for quality cards with wide ranging styles and subjects.

New artists and designs are added on a regular basis.

Register as a trade user on our website and order online or email joe@naturalpartnersart.co.uk to request a copy of our current catalogue. www.naturalpartnersart.co.uk

On The Shop Front VIEWPOINT FROM AN INDEPENDENT

Timing Is Everything It has been a tumultuous year but lockdown didn’t stop Carl Dunne of Cards & Gifts Sheffield making some bold moves.

W

atching Matt Hancock tell parliament on March 16 that “all unnecessary contact should cease” I guess was the start of it, then on the 23rd when Bojo delivered the lockdown I began to weep. I’d just started the ball rolling on taking on another premises in Dronfield, what was I going to do?

Through the remainder of March, I watched my waist line expand and my bank balance dwindle, while my longsuffering partner tried to convince me to go online. It is something I’ve always been reluctant to do as I’m an old-fashioned bricks and mortar trader! Then some light, the bailout grants from the local authority and I was one of the lucky ones to receive the maximum. Looking back now as we stare down the barrel of the gun that is September, £25k doesn’t stretch very far!

Especially as the high street is still empty of people and sadly many have already shut up shop and gone.

I think it was when the Prime Minister announced another three weeks of lockdown at the 6pm briefings, that my partner spat his dummy out and set to work through the night. Thanks to UKG and Cherry Orchard responding so quickly, by morning I had a website and online selling platform. Then, I couldn’t believe it, 10am and I was on my way with my first delivery!

I didn’t believe it could be done, let alone that fast! Being a technophobe, I’d always shied away from technology but now I had a life line. Doing nothing was killing me, I’ve worked all my life, and there’s only so many times you can move things around to try and keep busy before even that starts to drive you crazy.

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Cut forward to the end of May and I measures will relax again to make their couldn’t hold off any longer, the second efforts nothing but a waste of time and premises I’d signed for in February had to money. I’m certain ours isn’t the only open in some form as the landlord was not place where the total lack of joined willing to defer possession any longer. We up thinking by various government set to work and within 4 days I had a store bodies has had a directly detrimental together and ready to effect on high street trading. open. I checked with As for the “new normal” “I watched the local authority of retail, well it’s quiet. Too my waist who confirmed as we quiet! People need to get line expand were selling PPE, Hand out and start spending. They and my bank need to stop being afraid of Sanitiser, Wipes and plants/flowers that we balance going to the shops. I get it were allowed to open. dwindle, with pubs and restaurants as Alas jealous and distancing is more difficult while my inaccurate comments people don’t have face partner tried and from a shop neighbour coverings on. But in the to convince made the authority shops, you can distance and me to go do a re-think. Not everyone should have a face to be defeated we covering on so its ok now online” were allowed to do people. Get out there and click and collect so again Ollie set to work start supporting your high getting the plants and PPE online and we street, support your independent started selling from the door and offering traders and support jobs and spend, more on delivery. Another report to the spend, spend!!! local authority and this time a physical visit Carl Dunne, Cards & Gifts and they were happy and satisfied that we Sheffield & Dronfield were going above and beyond even what www.cards-gifts-sheffield. the supermarkets were doing to keep the myshopify.com public and our staff safe.

Today I stand with two stores, one new in Dronfield that’s thriving and the other just about treading water. Sheffield City council has closed off the city centre to traffic to allow for better social distancing. At the same time, the council also decided to put concrete blocks everywhere for better protection from terrorists. Lord knows why as there’s no one out and about and potentially by the time extended bus stops and closed roads are needed, distancing

IN-FOCUS LAURA DARRINGTON

Laura Darrington Design What a year so far? It’s had its ups (I can count one) and downs (all the downs), but we are still here (just). As we lurch towards the latter part of 2020, not quite knowing where the last six months went, all at Laura Darrington Design can safely say that we are glad to see the back of it.

But, don’t think we have let one of the biggest pandemic’s modern civilisation has ever faced let us rest on our laurels, no sir. We have been busy beavering away creating new designs (mostly sympathy cards) and silently pondering as to when we might be reunited with our greetings card friends and family? How we long to stand in a draughty exhibition hall watching a long line of customers flock over to Rosie Made a Things stand (honestly its fine, were FINE *sobbing*).

Back to the cards!

We have recently launched over 100 new designs, including Father’s Day, Valentines, Spring and Christmas, as well as the launch of a new Men’s collection.

Like most publishers these days, we are on the look-out for sales agents in most areas - so if you fancy a crack at it please drop us a line.

We’re in to our 17th year now, so we know exactly what we are doing. *Note to self: check what we are doing* If you require any brochures, samples or just a general enquiry, please drop us a message at info@lauradarrington.com where Ross (our work experience lad) will drop everything and get back to you ASAP. Alternatively give us a tinkle on 01162 849 660.

T: 01162 849 660 www.lauradarrington.com

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ON THE SHOP FRONT VIEWPOINT FROM AN INDEPENDENT

Times Change Times may change but some businesses can stand the test of time and welcome generations of new customers. Mary Singleton-Jones, the owner of Panda Cards, reflects on the history of her business and some of the things that have changed – or stayed the same.

P

anda Cards opened February 1st, 1977. The Hewitt family ran a coach business near Watford, offering trips to various locations. They decided to find a small retail unit in St Albans from where they could sell tickets. They decided to put a greeting card spinner into their newly acquired unit at 3 Waddington Road to fill the space, which in time would multiply into a few more! As a result Panda Cards began its journey.

Through the years Panda Cards began to collect more and more loyal customers.

The first choice to acquire the best cards was always Panda Cards. It was also my favourite card shop when I moved to the area from London in 1996 with my husband and then two-year-old son.

I had suffered from Epilepsy for many years but in 1997 I underwent a Temporal Lobectomy which was successful. With my new-found freedom from Epilepsy I popped into the shop to pick up a few cards and say hello to Christine who worked there. Christine mentioned that the owners, John and Edward were looking for a parttime assistant, and would I consider such a role? I began working there shortly after meeting with them.

In May 2012, John and Edward announced that they had decided to close Panda Cards and after a lot of thought and discussion, my husband and I decided to take it over.

I have noticed some changes through the years. Formally, John and Edward would make the majority of their card buying at trade shows that they attended.

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Rarely seeing agents or reps and ordering little card shop their parents would bring from them. I on the other hand, have them into as children has survived after all meetings with agents and reps throughout these years. My favourite expressions that I the year. Plus, I generally visit two or three hear from my customers are “definitely the card trade shows each year – although not best card shop in St Albans” and “I knew this year sadly. I love to that I would find the perfect catch up with all my creative “I love the card here”. card designers and look for relationships I have also noticed and new ones coming into this been told by a new wave we have fabulous industry. of 30-something-year-olds, with our Another change I’ve that once they have found customers” noticed over the years is in us they spread the word customer service. Generally, on the internet to shop at when I walk into a retail business there are no this great little Independent! welcome words let alone eye contact. When Panda Cards is also relied upon for you walk into Panda you are greeted with people’s Ethnic greeting cards. Whether smiles, encouragement and helpful advice. it’s Chinese New Year or Jewish holidays, I love the relationships we have with our we try to cover them for our customers. customers. Some have been with us almost Things may be uncertain at the moment from day one! We also find once they find us with all that is going on in the world but the whole family follow their lead. you have to remain hopeful and positive.

People return and are overjoyed that the Like many we had to temporarily cease trading back in March but we have reopened with all the necessary PPE and safety measures in place. We celebrated 43 years of selling cards in St Albans in 2020 and also Christine, our long-serving sales assistant, will celebrate 25 years serving our card-loving public at Panda Cards. Both milestones to be proud of and celebrated.

Mary Singleton-Jones from Panda Cards, 3 Waddington Road St Albans

Mary’s secrets to success ■ Uniqueness ■ Plenty of variety ■ Great customer service

IN-FOCUS LEONARD SMITH PUBLISHING

Leonard Smith Publishing Leonard Smith Publishing have found big demand for their keeping-in-touch cards and stationery.

Issy Smith got quite emotional when she was served her first flat white coffee when meeting up with a much-missed friend as lockdown eased. “Just getting back together and spending the time together over a coffee was such a treat, it made me realise how much keeping in touch with our friends and family means to us during this difficult time.”

Leonard Smith Publishing have been open for business all through the pandemic and they have seen strong sales of their blank cards and stationery with particularly good orders for their photonotes and Notecard wallets ranges. They recently added new designs to their stylish photonotes collection including a ‘Just To Say’ design featuring ... coffee cups.

The photonotes are sold in hang packs of five of one design and envelopes and printed in Suffolk on sumptuous Italian textured FSC board.

T: 01376 562 727 www.leonardsmith.co.uk

IN-FOCUS MOOCOW STUDIOS

Moocow Studios

Moocow Studios print and manufactures an extensive range of products.

They have a wealth of experience in the giftware industry, all of which bring something different to the mix. They design and produce their items in their East Sussex HQ and are also proud of their work with local and national charities.

Moocow Studios obtained the licence for Dick Twinney’s Know Your Dog range earlier this year, with the launch delayed until now due to Covid-19. The range has 50 dogs, from old faithfuls to breeds that have become extremely popular over the last few years.

Be also sure to check out their two ranges that are ideal for Christmas – Sue Podbery Country Artist and Mike Jackson’s Quirky World. Sue’s paintings are a minder of the farming that many people grew up with – featuring barns, cart sheds, hedges and day-to-day farm clutter that she grew up with. She paints in watercolour and gouache, with lots of pen work. Mike Jackson’s illustrations are now available on bespoke coasters and fridge magnets, textiles, pens, key rings and more for the tourism, souvenir and promotional industries.

Moocow Studios offer UK manufacturing at it best – not relying on overseas imports and available in low quantities. The company is constantly developing new products and is reactive to customer needs.

T: 01424 310057 | sales@moocwostudios.co.uk moocowstudios.co.uk

www.greetingstoday.co.uk 49

IN-FOCUS MIDDLE MOUSE

Middle Mouse Trade Website

We’ve been keeping busy during lockdown with new designs for existing and new ranges, and creating a brand-new Trade website which is now live! Our wholesale customers can log in and order in just a few clicks with our quick and easy order form, or take their time and browse each different card available. We’ve also reduced our carriage paid orders to £100 for the rest of 2020!

Christmas

We’re only a few weeks away from the big day, but there’s still time to order your Christmas stock. We’ve got our beautiful new Midnight Christmas range (a spin-off from our ever-popular Midnight Garden series) with bright, bold colours printed on luxurious FSC stock.

Our Christmas Carol Cardlet™ is back, with space for your message and extra pages of carols to have your very own sing along, as well as four brand new A6 cards to match.

Our bestselling Characterful range has two new faces joining Elf, and Kevin McAllister from Home Alone: Love Actually’s Billy Mack and Alan Rickman’s inimitable Sheriff of Nottingham rounds off 2020 with the infamous words ‘Call off Christmas’ – sure to be popular after the year of Covid-19!

Cardiau Cymreig (Welsh Cards) We’ve translated our popular Midnight Garden and Floribunda ranges into Welsh, with all 18 designs available to order now!

Including greetings from Penblwydd Hapus to Cartref Newydd Hapus, there’s something for everyone.

Characterful Cards

We now have 62 designs in this range, and it’s growing every week!

To our evergreen bestsellers, Blackadder, Poirot, Downton Abbey and The Goonies, we’ve added Indiana Jones, Dolly Parton in 9 To 5, Ferris Bueller and many more. As ever, these are printed on luxury recycled stock with kraft envelopes and are available naked!

To see a catalogue or place an order, either register your details on www.middlemouse.co.uk/trade-register/ or email Bec at sales@ middlemouse.co.uk.

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sales@middlemouse.co.uk www.middlemouse.co.uk/trade-register/ T: 07855 959 176

TRADE WEBSITE NOW LIVE!

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Ward’s Words

SARAH WARD

GIFTWARE ASSOCIATION

Incoming Gift of the Year

It has been a challenging year, but the GA is looking ahead to the new Gift of the Year competition as CEO Sarah Ward explains.

T

he Giftware Association are set to launch this year’s Gift of the Year competition on September 1, 2020 and we have some exciting surprises for you after being busy working during lockdown. The first one being that this year’s competition will feature a brandnew website. The new site will allow participants to enter their amazing products easier and to gain more visibility from the judges. There is the capacity for more product imagery, video and back links to your business website so the judges will be able to get a more complete view of your overall business.

The user experience for both the

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entrants and the judges has been taken into consideration so the process is much smoother for all but to also give the maximum exposure for entries.

The new website will also celebrate the winners in more style, allowing for better promotion of the winning products and more ways for buyers and retailers to find those products. We still have a few more surprises up our sleeves for the future that will hopefully provide buyers with even more access to the shortlisted products, businesses and of course the well-deserved winners.

This year’s competition also features several new categories in

an attempt to move with the times and to allow for entries from across the whole of the industry. The new categories that have been added are My Gift of All Time, Own Label, International and Tech and Gadgets.

To find out more about the new categories and other aspects of the 2021 competition, plus see how you can enter, please contact chris. workman@ga-uk.org or check out the new website from its launch on September 1.

Sarah Ward is Chief Executive of the Giftware Association which is at the heart of the gift industry supporting members by offering invaluable advice and assistance. Coming originally from a retail background she then worked at Penny Kennedy gaining extensive knowledge in the card, wrap and stationery sector, and now utilises these skills across a broader environment.

T: 0121 236 2657 www.ga-uk.org

Enveco Despite the challenging times of late, Enveco have continued their hard work producing envelopes and notebooks for their customers, following government guidelines to ensure the safety of their staff at all times.

Earlier in the year, before the UK went into lockdown, Enveco launched their exciting new sample pack which includes a new recycled range. The range has options available in stock sizes and an assortment of 44 different recycled papers available for bespoke makings. So, if you are thinking of pairing your greeting cards with recycled envelopes and bio degradable cellos then give them a call and discuss some options with the team.

If you want more information about the new recycled range or just need a new sample pack, please don’t hesitate to call the team on 01908 378 866 or email info@enveco.co.uk

01908 378 866 info@enveco.co.uk

Art By Janice New Thinking of You and Thank you cards from Art By Janice greetings cards.

Comforting and uplifting words to help through difficult times in our lives.

With over 20 new designs to choose from, these cards, from the new Serenity Collection, tick all the boxes with beautifully illustrated designs and words of wisdom. This card, pictured, has the wording, ‘Thinking of You, a solitary tree still sees the sky, still feels the wind, you are not alone.’

Within the collection are also ‘Thank You’ cards of scenic and floral designs.

www.artbyjanice.co.uk janice@artbyjanice.co.uk

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Retail Advice WITH HENRI DAVIS

Balancing Act The environment and sustainability are important considerations for businesses as consumers become more informed and it changes their buying habits, Henri Davis looks at how the card industry is balancing protecting the environment and card design.

W

e are living in strange times, yet one of the upsides of lockdown is that the planet is getting a break from the emissions from industry and travel and now we need to make sure that we reduce our impact going forward.

Back in 2018 we were all talking about changing the way we produced and packaged cards so as an industry we have reduced our impact on the environment, what have we learnt so far.

Unpacking cards on display has been the most significant change so far with adhesive clasps being used by some, nesting by others and some still using bags although these are now largely biodegradable or compostable.

Some retailers still have concerns over the durability of cards and the merchandising of unwrapped cards and Covid has meant that people are preferring products to be wrapped so they can be ‘kept safe and wiped’.

What about the actual designs

themselves? One business that has completely re-designed its range is James Ellis who publish the Shakies range which is now Paper Shakies.

Worried about the impact their cards were having on the environment because they used plastic glitter and confetti contained in a plastic bag as part of their designs, it all changed in 2019. After extensive research they have moved to using eucalyptus-based glitter that biodegrades in water in 28 days and paper confetti contained in a tracing paper pocket which they print the design on.

Lucy Creed at Poet and Painter comments that environmental impact is integral to their design process. They have always avoided any non-recyclable embellishments and every element of production is UK based. Designwise they focus on keeping their work bold and unpredictable. They have moved to using eco klasps but it hasn’t impacted on their approach to design

“As we come out of lockdown and shops reopen, the next steps we need to take in protecting consumers and the environment will become clear” and where customers are nervous about damage to unbagged stock they are trialling a mixed delivery, including a few designs with the eco klasp option.

Most customers have reported fewer problems than they feared so most have had the confidence to take the plunge and go fully naked!

As we come out of lockdown and shops reopen, the next steps we need to take in protecting consumers and the environment will become clear, understanding how it will impact on our businesses will follow.

Henri Davis is an independent retail advisor to businesses in the cards, gifts, stationery and heritage industries, with 35 years of retail experience. She has worked for Habitat, Next, WHSmith and the National Trust and now advises small and medium-sized businesses, including retailers, visitor attractions, manufacturers and suppliers. She is the first retailer deputy chairman of the Giftware Association and the recipient of this year’s Greats Honorary Achievement Award. For more information visit www.henridavis.co.uk.

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Kali Stileman

IN-FOCUS KALI STILEMAN

Kali Stileman’s cheerful, colourful designs aren’t just popular on cards, she has an ever-growing wrap collection with over 60 pieces. The wraps feature her Kali’s palette favourite motifs and collages on a larger scale on superb matt, heavy paper. There are wraps that is as bright and stand alone, and wraps with co-ordinating cards. blocky as ever “A popular option is wrap with a Tiddly card to in her wrap compliment – it’s a lovely half-way between a gift design tag and a large card,” says Kali.

Kali’s affection for animals in clearly evident in her wrap designs, there are llamas, cats and dogs, flamingos, puffins, swans, and her iconic dinosaur print.

Kali’s palette is as bright and blocky as ever in the various designs, with tessellated prints, and some softer ‘ditzy florals’ and birds.

Kali’s newest additions to the collection include crisscross train tracks, busy streets and some new animal designs as well.

Her work as a children’s book author and illustrator often crosses over into her cards and gift wrap as shown in her personal favourite, the W90 spaceman gift wrap. “I like the movement and contrast of the colours against the black background,” she says. “It looks super paired with a glittering silver ribbon.”

T: 01305 848 899 www.trade.kalistileman.co.uk

over in

100

designs

the

range

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Face Coverings the next fashion accessory?

Whether you call them face coverings, masks or consider it all part of personal protective equipment (PPE), these items are becoming an everyday essential – and a popular new item to sell.

I

t’s been a confusing year when it comes to face masks. First they were in, then they weren’t necessary, then we needed them for public transport, everyone in close contact roles needed PPE but there wasn’t enough, then shops reopened and ultimately we’ve all been told to wear face coverings over our nose and mouth in enclosed spaces, but we don’t have to wear them while eating and more recently government advice is for secondary students

Museums & Galleries

to wear them in corridors and communal areas – unless you have an exemption. It’s a hot topic and the goal posts definitely keep changing.

With limited availability of disposable ones, people jumped on the home made band wagon with many a YouTube video created and shared with how to make your own face mask with an old T-shirt or sock, then when it became obvious this issue wasn’t going away (as we all hoped), businesses got involved and they’ve hit retail store counters and shelves across the globe.

Who would have predicted that reusable and washable fabric face masks would be popular sales items in greeting card and gift retail stores at the beginning of the year (if you did, well done)? Now retailers have multiple options to choose from when it comes to the type, style and variety

Mary Singleton-Jones, Panda Cards

they wish to carry, as consumers purchase multiple pieces in order to always have a clean one. Plain, patterned, cheeky slogans, filters, fabric choice, comfort and general design are just some of the varying facets to consider when choosing a face mask, and as with all things, fashion is a factor too.

Celebs are being spotted with their designer brands but for everyone else it will come down to availability, accessibility, price and personal preferences.

So, whether your customers are happy with a basic black design, some humour from the likes of Cheeky Chops, something sparkly or even an artistic inspired piece like those from Museums & Galleries, Emma Ball or the Art File. Then there are the ecofriendly options made from recycled plastic such as those from Eco Chic.

There are plenty of options to choose from as retailers, so we can all be coordinating our face coverings with our other fashion accessories in no time.

“Who would have predicted that reusable and washable fabric face masks would be popular”

What the retailers say!

“I’ve got to order more face coverings, they have been really popular and I keep selling out.”

Emma Ball

“Prior to lockdown we would not have expected that face coverings and hand sanitiser would become bestselling products.”

Denise Laird, Spirito

“We’ve sold tonnes of face coverings! Mainly Eco Chic and Zelly. Also, hand sanitisers but not a great amount.”

Aga Gabrysiak, Highworth Emporium

“I resisted stocking face masks at first, thinking they’d be the new fidget spinners, with everyone selling them, but people kept asking so I got a small order to try from History & Heraldry. They did really well: I’m already on my second order.”

Julia Keeling, Wishes of Cudworth

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IN-FOCUS PINK PIG

Pink Pig Pink Pig have been working hard in lockdown, and have added 26 new occasion and birthday designs to their popular ‘Cutie Crew’ range.

Featuring cheeky giraffes, adorable sloths, cute hedgehogs and more cheerful and sweet animals, these cards are all completely irresistible and sure to appeal to many customers!

The cards are 150mm x 150mm, and sold in 6’s with a textured envelope. They are available cello wrapped or naked, just choose your preferred option.

To see more of the Cutie Crew range and the other new designs on offer, contact Pink Pig and ask for a brochure, or browse online at www.pinkpigcards.co.uk.

www.pinkpigcards.co.uk info@pinkpigcards.co.uk T: 07795 574 548

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Step back in time Celebrating more than 25 years of publishing Greetings and Greetings Today, here we step back in time each issue to five, 10, 15, and 20 years ago in the greetings card industry – Malcolm Naish

September 2015 ■ The ’50 Shades of Grey’ sequel and adult colouring books have been credited with helping W.H. Smith profits reach £121 million plus for their year-end figures expected to be announced next month.

and more of the larger Publishers were acquiring other brands in order to begin offering to plan retailers’ racks. This had previously been a big part of the likes of Hallmark and U.K. Greetings, so were we likely to see a threat to their ‘rack’ business from up-and-coming card Publishers?

■ Card Factory announce revenues up by 8% to £161.4million with a dividend to shareholders of 15p. plus an interim dividend of 2.5p per share. 36 new stores have been rolled out so far this year with a further 14 by the end of 2015.

Who said retail was tough!

■ Clintons upgrade their enterprise resource planning with the adoption of the Psion NEO mobile. The device will be used for electronic data capturing across a broad range of applications including goods receipting, range planning and price checking.

■ Laurence Prince of Danilo fame was presented with the ‘Honorary Achievement’ award at the industry’s Licensing awards. Having begun his licensing career in 1978 with his first ‘Elvis’ calendar, Laurence is rightly called the ‘Calendar King’ and can also boast in 2015 that Danilo had published their 37th Cliff Richard calendar.

■ Thorntons celebrate 100 years of chocolate making, having opened their first shop in Sheffield in 1911 when Joseph Thornton handed the keys of the shop to his two teenage sons and told them “Make this the best sweet shop in town.” Much has changed since then with their franchise manager Hans van Reen giving possible new franchisees a great entrance into the business by slashing the franchise fee from £15,000 down to just £5,000.

■ An interesting discussion in this edition when retail agent Neil Anthony highlighted the fact that when retail customers order top-up cards directly from the Publisher, that some Publishers do not let the agent know, which leads to the agent losing his commission.

Does he/she deserve their commission if they haven’t actually taken an order?

To be fair it was also said that quite a few Publishers would inform their agents, sending a copy of the cards ordered. I guess it is all part and parcel of being a self-employed agent!

September 2010 ■ Back in 2010, Carte Blanche had just acquired the Wishing Well business.

Our Editor pointed out that the two companies were two very different animals, but made the point that more

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September 2005 ■ Diddle and Friends was a new licensed character from Depesche that was enjoying much publicity back in 2005.

■ Size does matter – this was William McCracken’s take on the latest Royal Mail’s request to Postcomm to raise their prices on all large letter mail. In his role as Special Adviser to the G.C.A., William outlined the new proposals.

First raised over four years earlier the Royal Mail argued that larger cards were more expensive to handle and deliver.

Now called ‘Pricing in proportion’ these increases are due to be implemented in August 2006. Not only large cards are due to increase in postage, but also

those that are thicker than 5mm.

I’m sure the Publishers rose to the challenge and that the general public simply coughed up the extra in postage!

■ Cinnamon Aitch celebrated their 10th year in business.

■ ‘Greetings Today’ ran their first golf day with an excellent turn out at Sandy Lyle’s old course Hawkstone Park. Still supporting our golf day 15 years later to name but a few are Bill Greeno, Chris Dyson, Bob Morgan, Rod Brown, William McCracken, Neil Hirst and Steve Grocott.

September 2000 ■ Retailcards. was a recent start-up that burst on to the card scene in the Spring of 2000. We caught up with Sean Harper who told us that his site now featured over 50 card Publishers including Gemma, Glick and The Really Good Card Co. It was the first on-line card trader, but sadly, did not last very long.

■ We publish a major interview with Paul Woodmansterne. The company had been founded by his father in the Coronation year, primarily producing and selling colour slides that originally of course, featured the Coronation. With Paul and his wife’s involvement, the rest of course is ‘history’!

■ Our columnist Ali Mafi is also writing about the internet. In his opinion the internet bubble will burst and when it does, it will be with a colossal bang! Ali was perhaps partially right twenty years ago, but now look at how successful many internet companies are!

■ Letts Diaries is sold by public company Bemrose in a £12.5 million M.B.O. With a turnover of £25 million it looks like a solid buy for M.D. Gordon Presly and financial Director Gordon Raw.

Check out

Greetings Today’s new website Get involved Contact Simon Davis at e: simon@lemapublishing.co.uk m: 07525 201391

www.greetingstoday.media