Following the announcement of our Tableware International Awards of Excellence, this issue we talk to 10 of our global expert panelists to find out what they love about the tableware industry. Celebrating tabletop is what we do best and this month there's plenty to celebrate: we talk to Denby's creative director Richard Eaton, who is celebrating 30 years with the company; we celebrate Vista Alegre's securing of nine German Design Award nominations for 2018; and we pay tribute to Noritake's increasingly smart moves into the casual sector. In retail, we talk to the co-owners of Canadian tabletop store Hopson Grace about the secrets of their success; we profile Main Dish in Arizona to find out why it's a 'shop that pops'; and resident columnist Michele argues the case for trunk shows and artisan events. Cutlery takes centre stage this month with our in-depth guide; we also spotlight Decorative products and spotlight the benefits of handmade.