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LEADER A

speech: “Before I close, I would be happy to join in a game of the newest version of business bingo. A shot of tequila every time someone say says: ‘Tariffs’, ‘Trump’, ‘Keir Starmer’ or ‘10%’!” (Hope you didn’t have too sore a head the morning after Mark!).

With these words/names likely to define the year, we asked Greats winners for their views on the coming months. Did National Insurance, staffing, wages and shoplifting crop up? You bet they did! Tequila shots anyone? Turn to pages 21-25.

Staying with this year’s incredible Greats winners, I was delighted to interview two proud retailers for this issue – Barkers department store in Northallerton and family business Jeyes of Earls Barton in Northamptonshire – who have much in common. Despite being at opposite ends of the retail spectrum, both are independent family businesses and both boast a strong heritage. Turn to the articles on pages 26-27 and 34-35 respectively.

With this month’s Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate the official launchpad for the Gift of the Year 2026, we’ve turned the spotlight on next year’s competition, with The Giftware Association’s Chris Workman

view, we take a look at how gift retailers can make the most of the all-important autumnal season. Turn to pages 62-65.

Elsewhere in this issue, it was insightful as ever to meet up with Mike Winch, founder of Candlelight, winner of The Gift Awards

Outstanding Achievement Award. Turn to pages 30-31 to read about some of the company’s brand new launches for the second half of the year as well as what’s in the pipeline.

And finally, we also put a focus on the ‘magnificent seven’ shows organised by the HKTDC in Hong Kong in April. It was a great privilege to be invited out to the show this year, especially as the Hong Kong Gifts and Premium fair was celebrating its 40th anniversary. Turn to pages 68-69. Meanwhile, as we go to press with this issue in early July, Ali Farrell and I are hugely looking forward to the Harrogate show, meeting up with industry friends, making new ones and discovering who the winner of the Gift of the Year’s People’s Choice award is, which will be announced at the Sundowners networking event on Sunday July 20! But first, turn to pages 83-107 for our Guide To Home Fragrance/Bath & Body. It’s a fragranced ‘must read’ for gift shops looking to keep up with trends and industry news.

Enjoy reading the issue and see you in Harrogate!

Sue

Sue Marks Editor

The UK gift and home industry is dynamic, innovative and vibrant and The Greats Awards reflect all of this and much more. Be a part of it! Visit www.thegreatsawards.co.uk

Home & Gift Celebrates 65th Anniversary

Over 150 New Brands Will Be Making Their Debut

Celebrating its 65th edition, the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival will be returning to Harrogate from 20-23 July, welcoming a host of new brands to include over 150 which will be making their show debut.

Organised by Clarion Retail, visitors will discover over 500 exhibitors spanning seven halls and Design Points (DPs) –some 30% of which are brand new to the show. There will also be an increased showfloor, boasting over 10% more exhibitors than in 2024, and over 20,000 products on display across home, gift and lifestyle. Some 6,000 buyers are expected, 33% of which visited for the first time in 2024. Show highlights include the Sunday Sundowners networking party, a show party on Monday evening, drinks on the lawn on Tuesday after the show closes, and an exclusive Trends feature, curated by Clarion’s official trends partner, The Better Trends Co. (TBTC), showcasing three curated immersive trends. VIP visitors will also

have access to the Indigo Lounge at the Majestic Hotel.

Commenting on the show’s landmark, event director David Westbrooke says he anticipates another record-breaking edition. "As we celebrate the 65th anniversary of Home & Gift, this milestone is testament to the enduring value and significance of our show within the retail community, and the trust that they place in it. With such meaningful growth over the past few editions, it remains a shining jewel in the crown of the retail industry and is packed to the rafters with fantastic brands. I look forward to welcoming everyone to Harrogate this July to mark the special occasion.”

People’s Choice Winner

Announced

The People’s Choice award winner – the only Gift of the Year accolade voted for by the public – will be revealed at Home & Gift’s Sundowners drinks at the end of the first day of the show (July 20) taking place from 5.30pm at the Alfresco Bistro.

Additionally, visitors will also be able to see this year’s finalists and winners at the Gift of the Year showcase, located in Hall B.

Adds commercial manager Alison Graham: “It’s inspiring to see so many lovely new brands joining us at Home & Gift this year, helping to make the 2025 edition bigger and better than ever. The diversity of products across every category shows that the industry’s appetite for newness and connection is stronger than ever.” See Summer Soiree on pages 36-37. To register, visit homeandgift.co.uk

Mooch Celebrates Ten Years Of Mooching

Last month saw gift shop Mooch’s cofounders, Jon May and Luke Jacks, proudly celebrate the store’s tenth birthday.

The first Mooch store opened in Stourport on Severn in 2015 –later moving to larger premises and trading over three floorsfollowed three years later by a store in Bewdley.

During the past decade, Jon and Luke have won numerous national and local awards, been invited to 10 Downing Street to champion small business and been featured on TV.

“The aim has always been to bring something completely different to the local high street,” says Jon. “We are all about flying the flag for small independent business and shopping local.”

Utility Expands Its Retail Portfolio

Gift multiple Utility - which triumphed in the recent Retas awards - has opened a sixth gift store, with the new Chester retail outlet marking a further milestone for the company in the North West region.

“We’re proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Harrogate Home & Gift,” states The Giftware Association’s Chris Workman, PR & marketing manager. It’s a fantastic platform for our members and we’re excited to support the show in its 65th year.”

Morleys Begins Jolly’s Refurb

Work has begun on Morleys’ refurbishment of Bathbased Jolly’s department store ahead of a 2026 reopening plan. The store is one of Europe’s oldest and has been in Bath for over a century, with plans to re-open next year following essential restorative works.

Owned by Bath & North Somerset Council, the first phase is an overhaul of the external fabric of the building, including roofing renewals, window repairs and drainage improvements. This will be followed by internal refurbishment, carried out by Morleys, to create a vibrant new store.

Commented Allan Winstanley, chief executive of Morleys: “We’re extremely proud to be another step closer to taking stewardship of Jolly’s and creating a world class shopping experience for the people of Bath and its many visitors.

Co-founded in 1999 by Richard Skelton, Dick Mawdsley and Kate Cowie, Utility also has two gift stores in Liverpool, plus shops in Manchester and Altrincham.

Søstrene Grene Opens Wimbledon Store

Danish lifestyle retailer Søstrene Grene is set to continuing its UK expansion with a new store in Wimbledon. Mikkel Grene, chief executive and co-owner, comments: “Wimbledon is an exciting next step in our London expansion.”

The retailer is planning to have 100 stores in the UK by 2027.

Below: Fox Under The Moon won the People’s Choice Award in both 2023 and 2024. Shown, from left to right, are: co-owners Stacey and Jamie O’Neill, and Home & Gifts’ event director David Westbrooke.

Above: Mooch’s birthday themed party windows.

Below: Exhibitors and visitors are shown networking at the Sundowners at Home & Gift last year.

Above: Jolly’s department store in Bath is undergoing renovation.

opened a sixth gift store in Chester.

Above: Søstrene Grene is continuing to expand across London.

THE UK’S LEADING TRADE SHOW FOR PEAK SEASON BUYING

Bring young imaginations to life by finding the most in-demand toys at Autumn Fair 2025.

Jellycat Lambasted On Trustpilot

Support For Dropped Independent Stockists Grows

Jellycat’s three letter approach to loyal independent stockists – ‘you’re in’, ‘you need to up your game’, ‘you’re out’ – appears to have spectacularly backfired on the company, potentially damaging the brand.

While official stockists celebrate their status, embittered long-standing former Jellycat stockists took to social media to express their raw feelings at being unceremoniously dumped by the company. The furore moved to Trustpilot, where Jellycat consumer fans were quick to offer their support to affected local retailers, giving Jellycat low star ratings and damning reviews.

Jellycat’s response was to mitigate the negative posts by informing people that: “the company’s Trustpilot profile is currently closed for new reviews due to media attention.”

Numerous comments left on Trustpilot recently sum up the feelings of many devoted Jellycat fans. They include Joanna Bubb (2 stars): “Disappointed in your treatment of independent stores/small businesses; Jemma Clarke (2 stars): “It’s really disheartening to see small businesses – many of whom have been loyal official stockists of Jellycat –suddenly have their contracts cut without much explanation. These shops helped build

the Jellycat name, and seeing them pushed aside is sad and frustrating.”

Added Michelle McIntyre (1 star): “The way smaller stockists have been treated is disgusting. I’ve loved Jellycat for years, the big fun always came from finding smaller stockists and having a mooch.”

The BBC too, has waded in on the story, highlighting independent gift shop Bo Peep Boutique in Lincoln which will be dropped as a Jellycat stockist at the end of this year without explanation.

"Independent stores that offer a joyful experience to their customers have always been a big part of our journey and we love working closely with them,” Jellycat’s ceo, Arnaud Meysselle, told PG Buzz, GiftandHome.net’s sister digital newsletter. “As the demand for

Gift Companies Scoop Local Awards

Enesco’s New European Distribution Agreement

Enesco – which has been the exclusive distributor of Yankee Candle, WoodWick and Chesapeake Bay to the UK and Eire markets since March 2023 - has announced a new European distribution agreement with Newell Brands.

Enesco will be exclusively responsible for the selling and marketing of Yankee Candle, WoodWick and Chesapeake Bay brands into Germany and Austria, supplying the independent gift trade to both existing stockists and Enesco’s existing customer base.

The new distribution agreement will continue to strengthen the partnership between Enesco and Newell Brands who are both committed to supporting and growing the independent retail channel.

PEOPLE

l Enesco has strengthened the company’s UK sales team with the appointment of two new area sales managers: Marian Byrne and Sarah Smart Marian is responsible for Scotland and the North East of England, while Sarah is responsible for managing the South West of England and Wales.

Both Sarah and Marian bring a wealth of knowledge to Enesco, each of them having over 20 years experience as sales representatives in the gift trade and other sectors.

Small Shop Summer Campaign

Two delighted gift suppliers – Miss Milly and Meg Hawkins – were recently crowned winners of local business awards.

Jewellery and fashion accessories company Miss Milly was crowned Micro Business of the Year at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Awards, while Meg Hawkins was crowned winner of the Best Small Business in Shropshire category at the Shropshire Chamber Business Awards.

“I’m over the moon that our consistency, passion, evolution and success has been formally recognised,” enthused Miss Milly’s founder and managing director Sarah Watmore.

Added Meg Hawkins, founder of her eponymous company: “From submitting our entry to becoming finalists and welcoming judges into our studio, the whole journey has reminded us how far we’ve come. On the tough days, this will keep us going.”

Smart Shopkeepers Club is a new platform created by Sophie Edwards, coowner of Narborough-based gift shop More Than Just a Gift, to support independent retailers with campaigns, resources and marketing ideas.

“Small Shop Summer is a free, feelgood campaign to help independent gift and home retailers boost visibility and footfall over the summer months,” explains Sophie.

“The platform includes a pack of ready-to-print posters, signage, conversation starters and social media prompts. Everything is free to download and easy to use.”

She adds that there is also a Smart Shopkeepers Discovery Quiz and a 16 page Smart Shopkeepers starter pack. Additional resources, which will be launching soon, include a Smart Shopkeepers Guide to AI and a Christmas Starts in Small Shops campaign and tie-in with Small Business Saturday. Visit smartshopkeepersclub.com/summer2025

Above: Jellycat’s response to negative reviews on Trustpilot.

Above: Enesco has signed a new European distribution agreement with Newell Brands.

Above: Sarah Smart.

Above: Marian Byrne.

Above: More Than Just A Gift’s Sophie Edwards has created a platform to support indies.

Hot NEW products in Harrogate

To see these and our new ranges we will be in Hall A Stand B23. 20-23 July 2025.

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COMING NEW

Father’s Day Got The Tills Ringing

Practical Gifts Were Among The Best Sellers

Gift retailers reported a strong Father’s Day in June, with gift givers purchasing a myriad of giftware for their dads or father figures.

Confirmed Paddy Morton, director/manager of Strickland & Holt in Yarm: “We did more business in the week running up to Father’s Day than last minute, with the store doing well with food-orientated gifts. Other products that sold well were socks, beer themed soaps from The Somerset Toiletry Co, and an affordably priced pen/multi-tool gift.”

At Barkers department store in Northallerton, buyer/gifts and cards manager, Sarah Lishman, highlighted: “We did well with products from Gentlemen’s Hardware from Design Collective, plus gift books from Bookspeed, such as Dad’s BBQ Cookbook.”

as men's sock orders, and boy, did that pay off!” stated Judy. Other hot hits included humorous mugs and travel/sports related items, such as water bottles, earbud holders, journals etc.

A Dog’s Life Raises Over £22,000

For Judy Evans, owner of Williams of Audlem in Audlem. Father's Day gifting resulted in a welcome spike in sales. “We had anticipated that practical, price sensitive gifts would be our best strategy and invested heavily in items that met the brief such

At The Voewood in London’s Blackheath Royal Standard, owner Nicola Hibon Jackson highlighted: “Our range of Father’s Day mugs from Stubbs Mugs flew out. Price points definitely felt key, with most customers looking to get a gift and card for under £25. Other popular gifts included Arthouse chocolate and our new portable BBQs from Rex London.”

In Scotland, Father’s Day was also a hit at Orange Blossom Home and Gift in Pollokshields, with customers leaning toward quality gifts with a personal touch.

“Overall, shoppers seemed to favour thoughtful, well-made products over novelty items, looking for gifts that felt special and had lasting appeal,” summarised Shirley.

GA Summer Sizzler

The sun shone as Giftware Association members met up at Fidelity Fulfilment in Daventry last month. The company hosted a networking afternoon that included a guided tour of the company’s fulfilment centre, enabling attendees to experience the process from webstore to doorstep, with valuable insights around logistics and international growth.

GA Launches New Service Provider Directory

June saw the launch of the Giftware Association’s debut Service Provider Directory, a one-stop resource showcasing the service providers that support the gift industry.

A panel discussion followed, chaired by The Giftware Association’s head of membership, Victoria Louise. Aditi Pany, founder and ceo of Qalara, discussed sourcing strategies, sustainability, the India Trade Agreement and what it means for UK brands; Mark McCormack, co-founder of Talking Tables, discussed US tariffs, and Ashley Stein, US commercial director at Fidelity, who advised how UK companies can take their first steps into the US marketplace. Qalara’s Aditi Pany also fronted a display showcasing gift and home products from India.

The curated document brings together trusted experts across a range of services that the GA offers, ranging from logistics and packaging to legal advice and design protection.

The directory is available via the GA’s

The Little Dog Laughed’s A Dog's Life, a GOTY 2024 award winning gift book, has so far raised £22,257.76 for the Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, with a reprint aimed at doubling that.

The book features 50 illustrated true tales of Dogs Trust adopted dogs living their best lives.

Heatable Plush On The Up

According to The Wheat Bag Company’s owner, Sally Moore, heatable plush companions are firmly in growth mode driven by wellness, sustainability and smart design, with the market set to double over the next decade.

“Our range of designs are expanding year on year and we are currently working on some exciting new designs for the Autumn/Winter,” confirms Sally.

Charity Walk Smashes Fund Raising Target

With 55 walkers, to include a host of independent gift and card retailers, the Cardgains annual Charity Walk set off on Toni’s Trek on June 26 to raise £30,000 for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

However, the walk, in memory of Toni Creswell, who worked for Emotional Rescue, ended up smashing the target, raising over £50,000 and counting.

Walkers included Andrea Pinder, owner of Presentations in Barrowford; Caroline and Jon Ranwell, owners of Hugs and Kisses in Tettenhall and Ele Spreckley from Highworth Emporium in Highworth.

The walk covered some 27 miles – two more than originally anticipated - and included Birmingham’s city centre, canal network, parks, a reservoir and riverside walks.

Donations can still be made on the Cardgains JustGiving site: www.justgiving.com/page/cardgainscharitychallenge2025-tonistrek

Above: Rex London’s portable BBQ. Below: Dad’s BBQ book from Bookspeed.

Above: Cuddly Beddy Buddies from The Wheat Bag Company.

Above: A Dog’s Life from The Little Dog Laughed.

Above: We did it! The Toni’s Trek finishing line.

Above: The panel discussion at Fidelity Fulfilment in Daventry. From left to right: the GA’s Victoria Louise; Talking Tables’ Mark McCormack; Fidelity’s Ashley Stein and Qalara’s Aditi Pany. Left: Fidelity’s management took attendees on a tour of the fulfilment centre.

Entries Galore For Autumn Fair Campaign

Winners Will Receive Package Worth Over £10,000

Autumn Fair’s Retail Makeover Mission, which launched last month in partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org, received 225 entries from a diverse range of independent retailers across the UK keen to win a retail transformation package worth over £10,000 including support from an elite team of Task Team experts.(See news story below).

Participating businesses will gain access to tools and strategies that address the most critical challenges facing independents today.

The two winning businesses will be selected and supported through a structured programme, with their transformation journey

documented and revealed live at Autumn Fair 2025.

“The Retail Makeover Mission presents a rare opportunity for indies to gain access to expertise and tools, previously out of reach for many small businesses,” comments Soraya Gadelrab, Autumn Fair’s event director. “The initiative comes at a critical time for independent retail, as businesses face rising operational costs, shifting customer expectations, and the urgent need for digital and experiential evolution. Retailers need more than advice - they need partners who can roll up their sleeves and achieve results.”

Task Team Revealed

A Task Team of retail experts have been signed up to support Autumn Fair’s Retail Makeover Mission campaign, (see above), who will be taking a deep dive into the winning businesses, offering hands on, face to face support. The line-up features high-profile retail leaders with decades of experience to include: John Abbate, visual merchandising expert; Sara Allbright and Neil Amer, directors, Retail100 Consulting; Claire Bevan, head of retail at The Natural History Museum; Samantha Gibbs, founder of gift stores Nest; Sharon Good, PR specialist and owner of Good Results PR; Andrew Goodacre ceo of BIRA (British Independent Retailers Association); Alex Schlagman, founder of SaveTheHighStreet.org; Lauren Strivens and Felicity Harris from the marketing and content teams at Autumn Fair; Deryane Tadd, founder of award-winning boutique The Dressing Room, and David Whiteley, coo of Together Futures.

The Task Team will also be attending Autumn Fair offering exclusive 1-2-1 consultations at the Retail Makeover Mission Hub, with priority given to businesses who entered the competition.

Autumn Fair Reveals Content Agenda

Autumn Fair has revealed its most ambitious and retailer-focused content programme to date, with over 30 short, high-impact sessions across the brand new Retail Corner stage and Buyers Retreat.

Among the speakers will be Priya Aurora-Crowe, co-owner of Lark London, who will be delivering an honest conversation about building a 19-store empire in today's challenging retail landscape. Her session will be taking place at Retail Corner on Wednesday 10 September.

“We’ve designed the Autumn Fair content programme to reflect the urgent conversations happening on Britain’s high streets and the need for retailers to think differently and act decisively,” says Autumn Fair’s event director Soraya Gadelrab.

The show will be fanfaring its broadest exhibitor line-up to date, breaking records with new-to-show brands, (an increase of 25% in new exhibitors across the show floor), and exclusive exhibitors. There will also be five New Business Pavilions with the Taste at Autumn Fair Pavilion making its debut.

Visit https://www.autumnfair.com/agenda for the full content programme.

NEWS

Cereria Mollá 1899 Expands Internationally

Spanish luxury brand

Cereria Mollá 1899 has announced its expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, beginning with key markets in China, South Korea and Japan.

To lead the APAC expansion, Denny Zhuang has been appointed regional director, APAC, based in Shanghai. He brings a strong track record in luxury brand development and home fragrance across Asia and will be responsible for driving growth and establishing key retail partnerships in these rapidly evolving markets. In addition, there has been the appointment of the brand’s APAC distribution partner, Zepu, a leading Chinese fragrance distributor with deep expertise and a proven track record in the premium fragrance sector. Cereria Mollá 1899 says that this collaboration will significantly enhance the brand’s presence in China and lay the groundwork for long-term regional growth. Additional distributor partnerships across APAC will be announced in the coming months.

Within the APAC market, Cereria Mollá 1899 aims to offer a premium alternative to mass-produced fragrance brands.

Herdy Raises Funds For Bay Hospitals Charity

The Herdy Company, based in the Lake District, recently raised £6,477.50 for the Bay Hospitals Charity through the sale of its limited edition NHS 75th Anniversary collection, launched to celebrate the National Health Service’s milestone birthday in 2023.

The special edition collection, which included an NHS-themed mug, tea towel, and ‘Thank Ewe’ card, was designed to celebrate the diverse roles that make the NHS so special.

Top left: Sara Allbright. Middle left: Samantha Left: Claire Bevan.

Above: The cheque presentation from Herdy.

Above: Autumn Fair campaign partners: Autumn Fair event director Soraya Gadelrab and Alex Schlagman, founding partner of SaveTheHighStreet.org

Below: Autumn Fair will be delivering an ambitious content programme for retailers.

Above: Denny Zhuang has been appointed Cereria Mollá 1899’s regional director.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Is Almost

Full

Space Is Limited For Potential Exhibitors

Companies specialising in Christmas products and giftware are already planning for the 2026 season with space at Harrogate Christmas & Gift – which takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre from 11-14 January 2026 – almost full.

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

Simon confirms that there will be a few changes to the layout in 2026. Longstanding exhibitor Premier Decorations will

be returning, along with Kaemingk and Gisela Graham which have both reserved even larger stands. Widdop & Co has taken a new position in the Queens Suite foyer area and Joe Davies and Portland Living have both taken more space and moved to a new location in Hall C.

Among the companies which have confirmed significant sized stands are Giftware Trading; Shatchi; Partisan Products; Ascalon Design; Sincere UK; Norfolk Leisure and RSW International.

Adds Simon: “The show website has just been updated and we will be uploading the 2026 exhibitor list as soon as we have finalised all of the stand bookings we have so far. Companies wishing to exhibit, and those planning to visit, can book and register online.”

Visit www.harrogatefair.com or contact Simon Anslow e: simon@harrogatefair.com

INDX Gift Edit To Launch In May 2026

INDX Gift Edit, a brand new gift show, organised by AIS, will be launching next year. Designed to connect leading suppliers with UK and Ireland retailers, the INDX Gift Edit will take place at Cranmore Park, Shirley, Solihull, on 19 May 2026.

Responding to the evolving needs of the gift industry, the show will offer a commercially curated selection of high-quality products spanning homeware, fashion accessories, stationery, toys, artisan crafts and food and drink.

“We have listened to the industry and are creating an event that is both commercially focused and inspiring,” comments Jane Bartlett, director of events, AIS and Cranmore Park. “It will be offering a fresh perspective and a valuable opportunity for both established and emerging brands to showcase their products, with the show covering everything from gourmet to lifestyle.”

The show will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, from established industry leaders to new brands and emerging talent as well as product demos and workshops providing insights into the latest market trends and business strategies. Visit www.indxshows.co.uk

Moda x Pure To Debut At Autumn Fair

Following its successful debut at Spring Fair 2025, Moda x Pure will be returning to Autumn Fair 2025, (7-10 September at the NEC), offering visitors everything from sustainable and ethically sourced pieces to statement collections and commercially driven ranges. There will be four sectors: Womenswear, Clothing & Footwear, Fashion Accessories and Jewellery & Watch. The show floor will be complemented by Retail Corner, a space designed for independent retailers to explore emerging trends through engaging sessions and workshops across merchandising masterclasses, peer networking and problem-solving events. Visit www.autumnfair.com

New Dateline For Giving & Living In January

To avoid a date clash with Top Drawer Spring and the Harrogate Christmas & Gift show, Giving & Living, taking place at Westpoint, Exeter, has moved the show’s timeline to a later date, with the exhibition now taking place from Sunday 18 to Tuesday 20 January 2026.

"We will be able to attract businesses to the South West that could not previously attend,” comments Giving & Living’s sales manager Paul Thomas. “Among the attendees there will also be buyers who do not visit other trade shows so it's timed to give them the opportunity to both refresh and restock their merchandise for the year ahead,” says Paul. Show features include Coastal Path, Naturally and the Designed and Made in Britain area. Visit givingliving.co.uk or call 01934 733433.

Registration Opens For Source Home & Gift

Registration is live for Source Home & Gift, colocated with Autumn Fair, which returns to the NEC from 7–10 September. The show connects global manufacturers committed to sustainable and responsible production with leading retailers, designers and brands.

Register at www.source-homeandgift.com

BLE Is Back At ExCeL

Following a record-breaking Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) in 2024, which attracted almost 11,000 attendees, BLE will be returning to London’s ExCeL from 7-9 October 2025, with online registration open.

This year, almost 200 brand owners and agents are already confirmed to exhibit across character and entertainment, brands and lifestyle, art, design and image licensing. Visit www.brandlicensing.eu

Above: Visitors browsing products at this January’s Giving & Living.

Above: The Lesser & Pavey stand at January’s Harrogate Christmas & Gift.

Above: Visitors browsing the aisles at a recent Source Home & Gift show.

Above: Talking shop at Moda x Pure at February’s Spring Fair.

Above: The BLE character line-up in 2024.

Bamboo Collection Tassel Collection

Monochrome Collection

Twisted Bliss

Equilibrium Fashion Accessories

Pebble Glass Frames

Fluffy Coos

Glass In Art

Cottage Garden

Opportunities

Customer Challenges Are Challenges For Us

The positives: “There are a number of things that I feel positive about for the second half of the year,” states Paddy Morton, manager/director, Strickland & Holt, Yarm, winner of The Greats Independent Gift Retailer of the YearNorth & Northern Ireland.

“Staffing and recruitment pressures have eased for us now and are improving, which is great. We have significant housebuilding around us which will hopefully allow us to attract some more customers to our lovely shop. For the first time since covid, I feel there is some stability in retail customer behaviour and habits, which gives us more confidence in our business planning and purchasing for Autumn and Christmas.

“Plus, directly for our business, we feel there is an opportunity to develop and grow our own designed local product range. In addition, we have also found someone to help us with our social media which we need to improve to help us connect better with our customers.”

Adds Paddy: “It has been difficult for gift and lifestyle manufacturers over the last few years. However, a number of our suppliers

gift retailers? What are the opportunities and what are the challenges?

PG&H asked a selection of The Greats 2025 winners to share their views.

have some great new product this year which makes me positive we will in turn have great new product to offer our customers in the second half.”

The challenges: “We naturally think a lot about our customers,” points out Paddy. “For example, are they feeling positive or negative about their environment? Are they feeling financially secure or under pressure? How will this affect their spending, visits and shopping behaviour? This then feeds into our planning and our outlook for our business. Challenges for our customers are therefore challenges for us. So currently, a seeming slowing of reduction in interest rates is a concern for us, and potential further tax rises in the Autumn are also a worry. Directly for our business, further cost increases from our suppliers and from the Government through taxes or legislative changes are all a potential downside.”

A Love For ‘Shop Local’

FEEDBACK: LOOKING

The positives: “As we head into the second half of the year, I feel really positive about what’s ahead for gift retail,” enthuses Shirley McIver, owner of Orange Blossom, Pollokshields, winner of The Greats Best Newcomer category.

“People are showing a lot of love for local and independent businesses, which is such a great opportunity. Interest in unique, thoughtful gifts with a personal touch is growing, and that's our specialty.

While celebrating our Greats success, it’s also a good time to reflect on what's within our expertise and where we can expand creatively.”

The challenges: However, Shirley points out that it’s not all smooth sailing. “The rising cost of living and inflation might make people think twice about how they spend, especially with the holidays coming up.

On top of that, keeping operating costs under control isn’t easy.

“Looking ahead, I think staying close to what customers want is the way to go. Mixing trendy, fresh products with timeless, classic ones can really appeal to different tastes. For physical stores, creating a welcoming, memorable experience is going to be key.

“All in all, the next few months bring plenty of opportunities to grow, along with some challenges to tackle. But with some creativity, flexibility, and focusing on customers, I’m confident the gift retail scene can keep thriving.”

Shoplifting Is Our Biggest Challenge

The positives: “While the retail sector continues to be a challenging landscape, the demand for products such as Jellycat and influencer/viral-driven items present great opportunities, subject to being able to acquire the relevant stock of course!” says Cesca Haskins, owner of Attico in Westbourne, winner of The Greats Best Display category.

“Immersive and personalised shopping experiences that resonate with local demographics are vital to ensure that we become a destination outlet within our community, whether that means reimagining our displays for the season, sourcing something customers won’t find elsewhere on the high street or making their day with a bit of humour and sparkle in the shop window.”

The challenges: “Shoplifting has become one of our biggest challenges. And it’s not just the occasional missing item - it’s frequent, very noticeable and affecting us in a very real way. Like

Rising Costs A Concern

The positives: “Trade has been strong and consistent over the first half of the year, which gives me confidence looking ahead,” says Aga Marsden, owner of Highworth Emporium in Highworth, winner of The Greats Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – West & South West category.

“It’s been amazing to see continued support from our lovely customers. The run-up to Christmas is always a key season in gift retail and, with a solid start to the year, I’m feeling positive about what’s to come.”

The challenges: “The recent increases in National

and wages are definitely unsettling. It’s still too early to tell how big the financial impact will be, but it’s something I’m keeping a close eye on. Like many independents, rising costs in general are a concern, and the challenge will be to manage those while still offering great value and experience to customers.

“Nevertheless, despite the ongoing pressures, I remain optimistic. There’s still a real appetite for thoughtful gifting and a genuine desire to shop locally. For us, it’s all about staying flexible, keeping our offer fresh, and giving people a lovely experience when they visit – whether it’s for a card, a gift, or just a bit of inspiration.”

many shops, we’re having to rethink how we display and protect products without losing the charm and accessibility people love.

“One of our most popular product rangesthe sought-after Jellycat soft toys - are now displayed in elegant glass cabinets. It’s not

the way we imagined showcasing the range, but it’s how we can keep them safe and still on show for our customers. It’s a compromise.

“Slow response times from the police –who also face their own resourcing issues –have exacerbated the issue, with an almost free-for-all environment. This epidemic has resulted in us needing to install costly crime prevention systems, a cost which we can barely afford, especially in light of the recent increase in the staff and operating costs.”

Inset: Orange Blossom’s owner Shirley McIver (centre), winner of The Greats Best Newcomer Gift Retailer category, and Alina Mahood, (then) business development manager of The Giftware Association, category sponsor. Left: All smiles! Shirley with her coveted Greats trophy.

Above: Aga Marsden, (centre), owner of Highworth Emporium, won The Greats Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – West and South West category. She was presented with her Greats trophy by Kate Ellis, managing director of Dizzy Heights Agencies, category sponsor.

Left: We did it! Aga’s smile says it all!

The positives: “Across Autumn, our entrance tower display and displays throughout the store are remerchandised to offer additional cosy-themed homewares that create a warm, welcoming feel,” says Alice MacDonald, assistant manager at Mains of Drum in Banchory, winner of The

we do see increased interest in seasonal décor and confectionery, with our food department increasing its treat selection. Meanwhile, at Christmas, all departments have a part to play in ensuring the best festive retail experience. Crossmerchandising plays a key role, with gifts, cards, food, and decorations integrated across departments to inspire easy gifting solutions.

“The Christmas gift department setup begins in late September, with the unveiling usually in October.

The section spans approximately 30% of the store's floor space. Our entrance tower becomes

home to a 20ft Christmas tree, decorated with garlands, baubles and lights that are all available in store. We also hang matching garlands over our walkways in store and along the sides of our restaurant walkway.”

The challenges: “As we move into the second half of the year, like many businesses, we face the challenge of increasing costs in utilities, employer national insurance contributions and staff salaries. One of the biggest challenges will be managing these costs while maintaining prices that our customers will appreciate.”

Increased Costs Are Out Of Our Control

The positives: “In terms of general trade going forward, I believe that Jellycat is still the most important brand for independent gift stores,” comments David Robertson, co-owner, Bijou, Elgin, winner of the Independent Retailer of the Year – Scotland category.

“The company has had challenges, but nothing good ever comes easy. Personally, I have never worked or concentrated on a brand more.”

The challenges: “Many of the challenges for gift shops are the same as challenges for any store - rates, wages, staff issues and national insurance. These are not controllable. We can manage staff/opening hours to a point but, ultimately, we will have to pay what is required. We are constantly looking at footfall numbers and may change our opening hours further9.30am-4.30pm seems to be a sweet spot – and then extend them for December only. This goes against everything that we believe in as a retailer as we simply want to trade.”

Left: A big smile from a delighted David Robertson, coowner of Bijou. He received The Greats Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – Scotland trophy from Jak Kelly-O’Donnell, sales manager, Scotland’s Trade Fairs, category sponsor.

Right: A beaming David with his Greats trophy.

Left: Audrey Forbes, director, Mains of Drum, was presented with her trophy by Hannah Jenkins, Cereria Mollá 1899’s director of UK and Ireland. Above: Audrey celebrates with Hannah.

Rising To The Challenge

last August, was crowned the winner of The Greats Best Department Store Retailer of Gifts category in May at London’s glittering Royal Lancaster Hotel.

PG&H headed to the North Yorkshire market town to meet up with buyer/gift and card manager Sarah Lishman to hear what gives the awardwinning department its edge.

Fto The Gift Department at Barkers in Northallerton is ‘wow!”. The second ‘wow’ comes on discovering that buyer/gift and card manager, Sarah Lishman, had just seven months to go from zero to hero.

“Before we opened The Gift Department in August 2024 we didn’t have a standalone gift department as such. Gifts were linked to specific instore departments with each one responsible for buying their own giftware,” explains Sarah, who joined Barkers 28 years ago as a Saturday girl, coming back full time via a degree course in textiles and surface pattern.

“It was actually the store’s director, Guy Barker, the fourth generation of the Barker family, who decided that the 143 year old department store, a landmark on Northallerton High Street, should have a dedicated gift department.

The decision resulted in a major investment for the store – around £50-60,000 – with Sarah, then responsible for card buying –tasked with becoming the sole gift buyer, too. With purchasing decisions completely down to her – other than a request from Guy to source LEGO - she headed straight to London’s Top Drawer in January 2024, also referencing the Best Sellers articles in Progressive Gifts & Home. “It started me off and helped me when I went to Spring Fair the following month for two days. The show seemed overwhelming at first – plus, there was so much to cram into 48 hours, to include travelling - but it turned out to be a great success, with the majority of brands I placed

orders with being completely new to Barkers. My remit was to buy books, stationery, homewares, men’s shop, games and pet accessories, children’s toys and baby, so I practically shopped the show, keeping our customer profile in mind at all times, and aiming for retail prices of between £5-£50.”

Today, core brands include: Gisela Graham; Designworks Collective’s Gentlemen’s Hardware and Here’s How; Talking Tables; Freckleface; Plum & Ashby; FYG; Caroline Gardner; Casa Verde; Stackers; Pillow Drop; Morgan Wright; Museums & Galleries; Heathcote & Ivory; Bookspeed; Jellycat; Joma (children’s jewellery); Emile et Rose; Juratoys;

Moulin Roty, Barbour and Sophie Allport.

Inset: Barkers on Northallerton High Street.

had often looked longingly at the increasing amount of giftware that card companies such as Museums & Galleries, Caroline Gardner, Toasted Crumpet and Artebene were bringing out. “However, as the gift buyer too, I can now bring some of those excellent products into the new department,” she points outs. “It all helps to tell a brand ‘story’ and means that customers can find a gift in The Gift Department, such as a hand cream or soap, then go down to the card department and discover a same-brand card, gift bag or wrap to go with it.”

She admits that the first seven months were a steep learning curve. “In essence, I was bringing in gift, home and children’s products for the busiest and most important gifting period of the year, Christmas, so my biggest concern was how the products would be received by the customers.”

She needn’t have worried. “The new Gift Department was much busier than expected, so much so that it was tough to keep up with re-orders,” reveals Sarah. “I would go straight into the department on Monday morning and be amazed at how much the staff had sold over the weekend. It was an incredible feeling to see how much had flown off the shelves. Therefore, the key lesson I learned was to place much larger orders with suppliers for the last three months of the year, something I kept in mind when placing my Christmas orders at the Spring shows this year. I’ve also bought more pick up gifts, selling for £10 or under, such as little jigsaws from Bookspeed, toys from Juratoys, and small stationery items from Caroline Gardner and The Art File.”

Aside from sourcing at the major trade shows, to include Harrogate Home & Gift and PG Live (for greeting cards), Sarah discovers

praises of the reps and agents she works with.

And interestingly, it’s not only about the bigger, mainstream brands. She’s clearly proud to have spotted a small designer/maker at Top Drawer in January. The company, called My Bags of Stuff, does totes with slogans on such as Mum’s Stuff, Swimming Stuff, Teacher’s Stuff etc. “For gift givers, it’s an easy, affordable choice,” Sarah points out, “with the bags ringing up sales.”

Of course, merchandising is all important, with Sarah crediting her colleague, Jill Hancock, for pulling everything together and elevating the displays to create the ‘wow’ factor. “It’s a far cry from the early days when we were trying to build the department. All we had were huge bare walls which seemed daunting. It was therefore thrilling – and a relief! - to see it all come together last August. We have a fantastic team of staff who work really hard to keep the department looking its best. When you’re buying so many products, it’s very difficult to envisage how they are going to look grouped with other complementary products on a wall, a shelf or a display table,” she continues. It’s so crucial to get it right. With autumn on its way, I’m now looking forward to the changing season and a new merchandising vibe. It’s an opportunity to introduce autumnal colours into the department, and to put in Christmas from the third week of September. As with last year, we’ll be creating a Christmas department, complete with Christmas trees, although gift

Winning A Greats Award

Barkers: History & Heritage

l Barkers is an independent family department store that dates back to 1882.

l At 14, William Barker became apprenticed to John Oxendale, the owner of a drapery store, becoming a senior partner in 1907, with the store subsequently renamed Oxendale & Barkers. l William eventually bought out the remaining Oxendale family in 1918, renaming the store Barkers, and going on to open Barkers Home – a furniture, linens, cook & wine store – that celebrated its 30th anniversary last year.

products won’t be Christmas specific. It means that recipients, and self-purchasers, will be able to enjoy the item long after the festive season is over.”

If there’s currently a downside, it’s the ever present threat of shoplifters. “It’s got much worse this year, so much so that we have tagged our Jellycat products and increased the store’s security team,” Sarah confirms. Is she concerned about getting her Jellycat order through in time for Christmas? “I’m keeping my fingers crossed!” she smiles. What does she most enjoy about being in gifts? “I love buying beautiful products. It’s so rewarding when a brand comes into the department and it sells. It means I’ve got it right and that’s a great feeling.”

It was a very special moment for Sarah and her colleague Sharon Wake, Barkers Home buyer for Cook, Dine & Wine (located at the Barkers furniture store). “We were both gobsmacked –surprised and very thrilled – especially as we were up against such strong finalists,” enthuses Sarah. While in London, Sarah and Sharon made the most of their time visiting Selfridges, Liberty and Fortnum & Mason. “It was great to be able to do some comparison ‘shopping around’ before we headed back to Northallerton,” says Sarah.

Inset: The Gift Department.

Inset: Among the colourful, curated displays.

Below: From left to right: Awards compere George Zacharopoulos; Alister Marchant, ceo of Carte Blanche Greetings, category sponsor; Barkers Home’s Sharon Wake, and Barkers department store’s Sarah Lishman (right).

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Each and every Tatty Teddy is handmade with love, using 20 different pieces of fabric, hand stuffed and stitched with meticulous attention to detail, blow drying of the fur and finishing with premium quality accessories to ensure that every Me to You bear is not only unique but of the highest quality. We’ve introduced subtle changes that make Tatty Teddy cuter than ever.

Available all year round

Vision For Growth

One of the most prestigious Gift Awards categories each year is the special Outstanding Achievement Award which is presented to someone who has contributed greatly to the UK gift industry. This May, the trophy was presented to Candlelight’s founder Mike Winch who received a rapturous, standing ovation as he made his way to the stage at London’s glittering Royal Lancaster Hotel on May 15. There to cheer him on was his son Ben, the company’s managing director, daughter Kate, head of sales, Sue Mayo, design

director, her son Tommy Bartles, head of brand, and Mike’s close friend and legendary fashion designer Jeff Banks.

“To be honest, I missed the first part of the speech because I was in my own little world,” admits Mike. “Then I heard the words ‘started the business with £10’ and that got my

Inset: The Silk Road Samarkand home fragrance collection.

Below: The Gift Awards Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), was presented to Candlelight’s founder Mike Winch by BATF’s president Gert Schyberg (left). Also on stage is Mike’s daughter Kate Winch.

On the right is Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home.

Inset: The Silk Road’s Bukhara bath and body collection.

attention. I felt the blood rushing to my head and thinking, what’s coming next? That’s when the penny dropped. Jeff was staring hard at me to see my reaction and, at that point, I became a bit emotional, thinking about how far we’d come as a company, which started out making candles at the kitchen table when I was an ambitious 20 year old in 1971. It was during the miners’ strike and, together with a business partner, we each put £10 into the business.”

As it turned out, it was a brilliant investment, with that initial £20 stake spawning a multimillion £pound gift company, located in Mike’s hometown of Rotherham, which now has bases not only in the UK, but also in Hong Kong and China.

“We’ve been around for 54 years and I often think of the gift companies that were also around back then – a time of great opportunity - but eventually fell by the wayside over the years because there was no succession in place. Having Ben and Kate join me in the business has been fantastic, each bringing their own skills and talents to the table, with a recent new family appointment being my granddaughter Charlotte Daniels, Kate’s eldest daughter, who has joined the sales team as an account manager.”

What does Mike see as the secret of his own entrepreneurial success? “You have to appreciate your qualities. Mine are energy, creativity and not being afraid to rattle cages. As an entrepreneur, you have the power to make things happen with the pressure on you to deliver. You have to be totally focused and committed and set yourself goals. You also have to be very straightforward because business is black and white.”

With Autumn Fair on the horizon, the company’s new Autumn/Winter launches are currently a main focus. With around 150-200 new lines, Candlelight’s newest home fragrance launch is The Silk Road Collection, which draws inspiration from the historic trade routes connecting the Western world with Asia and the Middle East.

“The idea came to me when I was watching a TV programme about The Silk Road on the Discovery channel last year,” reveals Mike. “It was Sue Mayo, who has a very commercial eye, immediately having the vision for the new home fragrance collection, liaising closely with our team of talented in-house designers to bring it to life. There’s a huge attention to detail.”

product lines that include huge 1000ml reed diffusers, ceramic candles, glass candles, LED candles, mugs and home accessories, with Kate confirming that it’s already been very well received.

Complementing the home fragrance collection is a Silk Road bath and body range which is proudly manufactured in the UK.

“Bath and body is a completely new category for Candlelight and adds another string to our bow. It’s definitely one that we intend to grow,” states Kate.

Phase one features two of the three fragrancesBukhara and Samarkand –with scents inspired by the rich heritage and sensory experiences of the historic trade route. Products include bath bombs; shower steamers; hand & body lotion; bubble bath; soap and bath salts.

The premium range focuses on three cities: Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan, and Jaisalmer in India. Each city inspires its own colourway - terracotta, olive and blue respectively - across 11

“Curated with gifting in mind, the collection is beautifully packaged at excellent price points, making it ideal for both the retail and gifting markets,” says Kate.

Looking ahead, phase two of the launch will see the addition of washbags and toiletry bags that have been designed to add further appeal and value.

In addition to The Silk Road collection, there will also be another 150-200 lines showcased at Autumn Fair. “Everything will be in stock,” confirms Mike, with Kate highlighting that the company will also be unveiling its Spring 2026 stock at the show. “We can deliver product for the coming season and the one after that. There’s no waiting. It’s why we’ve expanded our stand space by another 25% in September and will be doing the same at Spring Fair in February 2026.”

Despite the ongoing challenges, both in the UK and globally, Mike is proud to reveal that Candlelight grew by 32% in the financial year ending in May 2025, with a further growth of 20% predicted for the coming year.

“What is unique to Candlelight is that we have been able to expand the business with the same team,” he explains.

“They are very experienced with a wealth of knowledge, and we continue to value, recognise and reward them so that they feel appreciated.” He says that he sees the next two years as growth years, explaining: “we have the designers, products and infrastructure to elevate Candlelight to the next level.”

Meanwhile, Mike’s passion for his rock band, RockStock, (which provided the live music at The Gift Awards in 2024 and 2025), remains an important part of his life. “You are only on this planet once and we like to have fun,” he points out. “But I still have lots to do and places to go, with my main goal now to make Candlelight the No. 1 candle brand in the UK.” So speaks a true (award winning) entrepreneur!

Inset: The Arts & Crafts collection, inspired by William Morris, will be launching in Autumn 2025.

Inset: The Silk Road Samarkand bath and body collection.

Harrogate Home & Gift beckons for Bill Nettelfield, owner of Bill & Bert’s in Colchester, who is looking forward to seeing both new and existing suppliers as well as discovering some new best sellers.

The Gift Awards, as always, was another fabulous evening and many congratulations to all the winners.

Plus, here’s hoping that everyone had a fabulous Father’s Day trading time, and that you are all geared up for the summer holiday period. Whitsun half term trading was especially good at Bill and Bert’s, with record Bank Holiday Monday sales.

Now we are really looking forward to another Harrogate Home and Gift fair. This is the most enjoyable show of the year, and the only gift show with any decent food at lunchtime! Other trade shows should take note and up the quality of F&B choices and service.

It’s great to walk from show to pub to restaurant to hotel without thinking about the car. Let’s hope the weather is kind to both buyers and sellers alike this July. After walking around the show for eight hours, it’s great to meet up with like-minded retailers for a beer, gossip and a catch up. Hearing other retailers’ opinions of the show, suppliers and stock ideas are so important, as it’s very easy to have missed a potential winner.

At Bill and Bert’s, we’ll be on the lookout for new and exciting lines that we feel will add to the offer we have already. It’s great going to trade shows with an open mind as that’s where we seem to find a few winners. It would be wonderful to find a couple of £25-30 lines that sell in big numbers for the second half of the year. A repeat of 1989 and the dancing flowers comes to mind. With the show, like all shows, being smaller than years ago, it’s easier to get round and then return to place orders having given proper thought to new products, rather than rushing orders.

Last year we bought a new range of jewellery from Vurchoo at Harrogate. It’s a great range with a wonderful story behind every piece. It’s well worth a look if you haven’t been on the company’s stand before. The smaller exhibitors in the marquees are often where a few winners can be found too. A few years ago, it was here that we found Sugar Shed who have produced a wonderful souvenir range of Colchester-themed items for us, their tea towels and coasters being some of the best lines.

Additionally, the new Roka Gatwick bags have proved a real hit with customers going away for a few days or even a week. They’re perfect for taking on a plane as

GiftThe

which I will be using at Harrogate.

Having only stocked Emma Bridgewater ceramics since January we have high hopes for great sales with the range in the second half of the year. Sales so far have been excellent. We also started stocking Charlie Bears this year - we should have done that ages ago. I’m hoping for strong sales this Christmas from both of these great brands.

For those that haven’t been to Harrogate before you are in for a treat. Dress sensibly though, starting with your feet, as there’s plenty of walking to be done.

My daughter Amy came on board with us last year and has really taken our social media to a different levelFacebook, Instagram and TikTok. Some of our TikToks are collecting over 2.5 million views and we have found footfall has increased significantly throughout the year on the back of this. It’s also great fun getting my staff, as well as our customers, involved with the videos. We have a 91-year-old customer, Alfie, who comes in every Friday and is becoming a star in his own right.

At the end of my last column, I was wishing for a great end to the season for Leeds United. Well, indeed it was, promotion as champions and now the struggle of the premiership starts. MOT. (That’s Marching On Together!).

OFF TO HARROGATE

Below: Bill Nettelfield, owner of Bill & Bert’s, says that Roka’s Gatwick bags have proved a big hit with customers.

A Family Affair

It would be hard to find a more delighted Greats 2025 winner than family-run Jeyes of Earls Barton, which won The Greats Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts category at The Gift Awards in May.

As PG&H discovered, families don’t come much tighter and closer than the Jeyes, who brilliantly combine business and family life.

75th birthday last September, (daughters Pip and Anna, who both work at Jeyes, bought her Emma Bridgewater ovenware in honour of her signature dish, Toad in the Hole), but also celebrated 35 years of running The Keepsake Gift Shop within the visitor attraction, Jeyes of Earls Barton. Then, crowning a very special few months, Georgina was thrilled to hear Jeyes of Earls Barton announced as the winner of The Greats Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts category at The Gift Awards, held at London’s Royal Lancaster hotel in May.

“It was such an exciting moment, and such a special evening, with all of us still celebrating at

coffee, a homemade lunch or afternoon tea in The Apothocoffee Shop - or vice versa.

In addition to the gift shop, the beating heart of the sprawling complex, Jeyes also boasts a bright, breezy conservatory and spacious Moongate garden (“perfect for weddings and other special occasions”), the New Moon Cabin (“great for smaller parties”), the Evergreen Courtyard and Garden Room, the John Clare Contemplative Garden, a children’s playground, as well as a fun Jeylato’s ice cream parlour. Upstairs, there’s a maze of fascinating heritage exhibitions including Northamptonshire’s rich boot and shoe history,

Below: Georgina Jeyes, along with daughters Anna and Pip, were presented with The Greats Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts award by Sophie Elliston (right), head of brand - business unit, Talking Tables, category sponsor.

Inset: Jeyes of Earls Barton has become a landmark on the Village Square.

Inset: Among the eye-catching displays.

Boots showcase - a true Earls Barton story. It’s no wonder Jeyes tag line is: ‘Shop, Lunch and Explore’.

In fact, the origins of Jeyes of Earls Barton can be traced back to 1810 when Philadelphus Jeyes opened as a traditional Chemist & Druggist at 6 The Drapery in Northampton. Following in the family footsteps over a century later, David, a pharmacist, together with Georgina, opened Jeyes Chemist, a traditional village pharmacy, in the shadow of Earls Barton’s renowned All Saints’ Church, one of England’s finest Anglo-Saxon Towers.

While David focused on prescriptions, Georgina grew the gift and card shop, officially opening The Keepsake Gift Shop in 1989 in the Old Nat West Bank. The couple had purchased the Victorian properties either side of the original chemist, expanding into a larger gift shop which today is a labyrinth of interconnecting rooms, all with a welcoming, homely feel and a nod to the past.

accounts, administration and staffing. Her sister Anna, who graduated as a criminologist, (but who admits that she hasn’t caught a shoplifter yet!), joined two years later and now oversees the business’ marketing, social media and events.

All three jointly do the buying for the gift shop, with Pip and Anna focusing on gifts, fashion, fashion accessories, toiletries, children’s clothing and toys, while Georgina’s buying passion is for greeting cards, giftwrap, unusual gift books, local books and prints on Northamptonshire, and stationery.

Best-selling gift brands include Powder, Wrendale, Peace of Mind, East of India, Wild Olive, Jellycat, Rainbow Designs, Joe Davies, House of Marbles, Gibsons

A Sauce-y Titbit

The brand ‘Jeyes’s Northamptonshire’, created in 1852 by Philadelphus Jeyes, was brought back to life at the start of the pandemic in 2020 by the family when they discovered the original 19th century recipe for Jeyes’s Northamptonshire Sauce.

With true entrepreneurial flair, they have gone on to develop an award-winning range of recipes, enhanced by Philadelphus’ Northamptonshire sauce, which is produced locally. Products are not only celebrated on The Apothocoffee Shop menu, but also in pubs, restaurants, delis, farm shops and supermarkets across the UK, with the brand even featuring in the Channel 4 series, Aldi’s Next Big Thing.

we listen, although you do have to claim your idea before someone else does! We also all share a desire to evolve the business and that gives us confidence to maintain the momentum. If we have a good idea we go with it.”

Tomato ketchup, BBQ sauce, chutney, jam and chocolates have recently been joined by Jeyes’s Northamptonshire Mustard which has a special ‘kick’. “It was created as a tribute to The Great Fire of Northampton in 1675, where, each year on May 29, we celebrate a commemorative local event, Oak Apple Day,” explains Georgina.

Within the gift shop, a Jeyes hamper station helps customers to mix and match their sweet and savoury products, with the company also supplying hampers to hotels and businesses across the UK. Christmas 2024 was a record-breaking year with the trio hand delivering festive hampers to corporate businesses all over the county.

Adding the award-winning Apothocoffee Shop in 1991 was followed by the conservatory and gardens.

Some 20 years ago, David and Georgina’s daughter Pip, (former PA to the head of Hong Kong International School and later PA to the heads of sport and drama at Channel 5), joined the business, responsible for the

Did You Know...?

Jigsaws, Talking Tables, Blade & Rose and Music Gifts, with numerous greeting card ranges including publishers such as Rush, Lagom and Louise Mulgrew.

So, what’s the secret of the gift shop’s success? “Flexibility,” states Anna, “and having fun. Plus, we like to do things differently. We constantly bounce ideas off each other and

Back in 1995, Jeyes Chemist was the first and only chemist in the country to have a building society. “All the banks were closing in the village, so when Market Harborough Building Society approached us, we built a purpose-built kiosk cabin and ran the building society until it closed in 2018,” explains Georgina. “It even led to a question in the 1995 edition of the board game Trivial Pursuit. “What does a chemist in Northamptonshire sell alongside Durex and Disprin? We had a lot of fun with that!” she laughs. (The answer was mortgages!).

The Jeyes trio have also been working closely with family friend and auctioneer Charles Hanson from BBC Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Show, to host antique valuation days at Jeyes. Georgina is Charles’ warm up act and comments, “We have such fun on our valuation days. Everyone stays on to have lunch and a natter afterwards.”

As for challenges, Pip says that the Autum Budget made them re-look at staffing and hours. “It’s the advantage of being an independent, family-run business. We can pivot quickly whatever a Budget might throw at us.”

As for the average in-store spend, she emphasises that customers know that they are getting value for money, quality products and a great experience. “Plus, importantly, our pricing is very fair, we’re not greedy.”

What does Georgina love most about owning a gift shop? “I love serving and helping our friendly customers who leave with just the right card and present they needed. With so much history, everyone finds something that they can relate to at Jeyes,” she reflects.

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, there are, as always, numerous balls in the air, although thoughts are naturally turning to Christmas, with many of the orders pre-placed.

“The team often joke that if the local radio or TV station is struggling for news, they’ll phone us for an interview because there’s always something going on here,” says Anna. “They can guarantee that, with our involvement in so many different things, we’ll always have a story to tell them!”

Inset: Books and plush galore. Right: The ‘Great Wall Of Socks’.

FACE TO FACE: JEYES OF EARLS BARTON

Inset: The Jeyes’s Northamptonshire range.

There’s always a frisson of excitement in the air as both exhibitors and visitors head to the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate, which this year sees the show not only celebrate its milestone 65th anniversary, but also a bigger show, which will be welcoming a host of new brands, to include over 150 companies making their show debut such as Cereria Mollá 1899 and Rosie Made A Thing.

Across the show, visitors will discover over 500 exhibitors spanning seven halls and Design Points, some 30% of which are brand

increased showfloor, boasting over 10% more exhibitors than in 2024, and over 20,000 products on display across home, gift and lifestyle. Some 6,000 buyers are expected, 33% of which visited for the first time in 2024.

Among the returning brands is Inis. “Harrogate Home & Gift in July is always a joy,” enthuses Elaine Nolan, Inis’ sales and business development manager UK, Australia and Europe.

merchandising. It helps to create an enhanced ‘close to the sea’ experience within the Inis display, with plenty of room in the bag’s large design to carry essentials for a shopping spree, yoga class, seaside escape or day at the beach.”

Joe Davies is also delighted to be returning to the show.

“Home & Gift is a highlight in our trade show calendar,” says managing director Paul Hooker.

“We look forward to it each year, especially to meeting all our loyal customers. Everybody is in super form, and we always get some sunshine which is an added bonus!”

“The timing couldn’t be better, as it coincides perfectly with the launch of our brand new Autumn/Winter collection, with visitors to our stand among the first to see over 2,000 new lines which will be making their UK debut.”

New products include a health and wellbeing

This year, the company will be introducing its new, improved soy wax blend scented candle.

“Users will enjoy over 36 hours of our oceanfresh signature Inis fragrance to uplift them like a sunny day by the beach,” says Elaine. “We also have a new summer beach bag, an ocean lifestyle fashion accessory that’s perfect for

PG&H Home & Gift Partnership

Below: Inis’ new summer beach bag.

Inset: Visitors enjoying the sunshine at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Below left: Inis’ new summer beach bag. Left: Among the new wooden keyrings from Global Journey. Bottom: Taking time out to relax.

Home & Gift Highlights

l Visitors and exhibitors will again be able to mingle at the Sunday Sundowners 5.30pm on 20 July, dance the night away at the show party on Monday 21 July, and enjoy drinks on the lawn as the end of the day on Tuesday 22 July.

l An exclusive Trends feature, curated by Clarion Retail’s official trends partner, The Better Trends Co., will be unveiled at the show. (See Trend Talk below).

l The winner of the Gift of the Year’s People’s Choice Award Giftware Association on Sunday 20 July, during the Sundowners party, with a showcase of Gift of the Year winners in Hall B.

collection featuring eye masks, gel filled eye soothers, shower caps and heatless curlers. “They make great stocking fillers, with handy CDUs for easy display,” Paul explains. Meanwhile, ceramics continue to shine, with the company expanding its offering with several new collections launching exclusively at the show. “Glass is also making a strong impression this season,” he highlights. “Our latest ranges feature beautifully crafted frames, tealight holders, lamps and new additions to our much-loved Art in Glass collection. Plus, a highlight at Harrogate will be our best-selling Glass Pebble Art collection which is set to grow, with new additions centred around occasions. Joining the line-up is a new mini size, making the collection a super on-trend sentiment gift.”

Also unveiling a range of new products for Autumn is Global Journey. “In response to the popularity of our UK manufactured metal and wood signs we have expanded the range to include a new selection of signs that are

l VIP attendees will also have access to the exclusive Indigo Lounge where they can relax and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Halloween-themed,” explains sales director Ian Samuels. “Inspired by last year’s success and this year’s seasonal trends, they feature witches, pumpkins and a striking orange palette. Plus, due to high demand, we’ve expanded our handmade 3D wooden keyrings from 84 to 144 designs, introducing a new sentiment range and an eye-catching new display.”

At Talking Tables, the company will be showing its Autumn and Christmas collections, alongside a new Dine in Colour candle collection. “New items have been added to popular favourites such as our Fun Santa and

Talking Trends At Home & Gift

An exclusive Trends feature will showcase three specially curated, immersive trends curated by The Better Trends Co. (TBTC). The company’s co-founders, Nathalie Alexander and Louise Healy, have also designed this year's Summer Soirée show theme.

"For a huge brand anniversary such as 65 years of Home & Gift, we knew it had to encapsulate everything the show represents,” explains Louise. “The Summer Soirée trend was the perfect embodiment of outside dining, stylish stripes and elevated tablescapes, blended with Home & Gift’s British heritage and retro summer party atmosphere."

our games collections and there’s a new party games launch too,” confirms Jo Jeffery, head of brand development.

Fragments of Fashion meanwhile, sees the company making further strides in its sustainability journey. The collection of tree decorations are handmade from upcycled shredded cotton fabric waste from the fashion industry. They are made in India in a set up powered by solar energy and recycled waste, with local women workers,” confirms Jo. For the full A-Z of exhibitors, and to register, visit www.homeandgift.co.uk.

Inset: Colourful candle holders from Talking Tables. Below left: Occasions is a new addition to Joe Davies’ Glass Pebble Art collection. Bottom: Networking at the Sundowners drinks party.

1: Cottage Garden

Step into a world of gentle charm and timeless elegance with the new collection of pastel floral vases and planters from Joe Davies. Delicately hand-painted blooms in soft hues of lavender, coral, sky blue and sunshine yellow on a soft cream background, make the perfect vessel to showcase any flowers and plants. The pretty range has been put together using some of Joe Davies’ bestselling shapes such as the milk bottle and jug vase. With their uplifting design and timeless appeal, the vases and planters aren’t just home décor - they’re heartfelt gifts and collectable treasures. If you’re looking for something new and inspiring visit the Joe Davies stand at Harrogate Home and Gift (Hall B-A02).

Joe Davies

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand B-A02

T: 0161 975 6300

E: sales@joedavies.co.uk

W: www.joedavies.co.uk

2: WhoHa Party Game

Get the party laughing with WhoHA - a guessing game where players must guess who said what and attempt to gain the biggest laughs at the table. Talking Tables

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A38

T: +44 020 7627 6767

E: info@talkingtables.co.uk

W: www.trade.talkingtables.co.uk

3: Stylish And Practical

Opticaid has partnered with socially conscious greetings publisher Brilliantly Brave to launch a new floral RFID wallet collection. From ditsy prints to bold botanicals, each design blends vintage charm with a contemporary feel. Made using recycled materials and packed in Kraft CDU displays. Beautiful, useful and doing good – with every sale supporting mental health projects in Scotland. Launching at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Opticaid

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand A-B16

T: 0113 239 1400

E: sales@opticaid.net

W: www.opticaid.net

4: Something To Woof About

Rex London has introduced its new Dog Park collection. The charming new design is inspired by visits to local dog parks where breeds of all shapes, sizes and personalities come together in play. Featuring an organic colour palette, the natural colourways reflect the original colourings of the dogs, while also translating beautifully across homeware and accessories. The collection currently includes the bestselling jumbo bag, a ceramic mug, magnetic shopping list and insulated lunch bag, with more items coming this summer.

Rex London

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A42

T: +44 (0)20 8746 1700

E: info@rexlondon.com

W: www.rexlondontrade.com

Products New

5: Bedtime Besties

Beddy Buddies are microwavable comforting plush toys designed to bring warmth and relaxation. Each Beddy Buddy features a soft, cuddly exterior with a secure Velcro opening, revealing a removable inner bag filled with 100% English flaxseed. Simply heat the bag in the microwave for up to one minute to enjoy gentle, soothing warmth. Perfect for snuggling, calming bedtime routines, or for easing aches and pains, Beddy Buddies are suitable for all ages over 36 months.

The Wheat Bag Company

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B58

T: 01747 840500

E: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk W: www.thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Microwavable soothing warmth

With removable insert filled with English Flaxseed

1: Adorable Picnic Baskets

Make sure you get your five-a-day with Rex London’s new fruit baskets. The sweetest addition to your shop this summer, you can choose from picnic baskets in watermelon and orange designs, or go for a display basket in apple, strawberry or pineapple - perfect for a year-round fruit bowl. All products are in stock now and ready to ship. Order today and enjoy no minimum order. More product information can be found on Rex London’s website, and there is a handy lookbook available for free online or as a downloadable PDF. Rex London

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A42

T: +44 (0)20 8746 1700

E: info@rexlondon.com

W: www.rexlondontrade.com

2:

‘The

Power of’ Candle Gift Sets

Wellbeing gifts with sentiment… following the launch of the affirmation sticker range in January, Cotton & Grey is launching a matching range in its 20 minute relaxation candle sets, which will sit perfectly alongside them. Both ranges cover wellbeing and self-care titles to boost, nurture and encourage positivity in everyday life. Thoughts and mantras that can be focused upon in 20 minutes of reflection. Supplied with an attractive point of sale stand for easy display. Each box contains 12 candles with a ceramic holder. See all the designs across the collections at www.cottonandgrey.com/brochure.pdf

Cotton & Grey Ltd

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP4-C03

T: Paul on 07931 373756

E: info@cottonandgrey.com

W: www.cottonandgrey.com

Products New

3: Fragments Of Fashion

The new collection Christmas decorations are handmade from upcycled shredded cotton fabric waste from the fashion industry. They are made in India in a set up powered by solar energy and recycled water and with local female workers. The Santa is hand painted, while the folk ornaments are decoupage banana paper. The design is printed onto the banana paper and then torn up into pieces that are wrapped around the shape.

Talking Tables

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A38

T: +44 020 7627 6767

E: info@talkingtables.co.uk

W: www.trade.talkingtables.co.uk

4: New Stunning AluminArt Collection

Tilnar Art continues to lead the way in Fair Trade and eco-friendly products with its new AluminArt collection. Featuring differing styles of Tree of Life, Highland Cows and Stags, the bold wall art promotes ethical labour and sustainability. Made from plastic free, recycled aluminium, it helps reduce pollution and conserve resources. By choosing Tilnar Art you are supporting global fairness and a cleaner, greener planet for future generations.

Tinlar Art

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Hall DP4, Stand B21

T: 01277 297259

E: sales@tilnarart.co.uk

W: www.tilnarart.co.uk

Following on from the success of the recently launched Lifestyle Mugs & Coasters, the company has introduced eight great new designs for 2025. Due to the really strong sales and positive feedback, it decided to increase the range and offer more choice to customers and consumers. With full colour glaze and intricate designs inside the mugs that complement the outside wording beautifully, the specialised range of mugs and coasters is as unique and innovative as it is colourful and attractive. Not to mention surprisingly affordable and competitively priced. With high temperature decals inside and out, they are also fully microwave and dishwasher safe.

Global Journey

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Hall A, Stand B23

T: 0161 872 0333

E: isamuels@global-journey.com

W: www.global-journey.com

Eco-friendly - recycled & recyclable

Fairtrade & handmade by Indian craftsmen

BRAND NEW FOR 2025

Tilnar Art is proud to once again be adding to their collections. This time a brand New Wall and Garden Art which will bring a fresh wave of creativity to outdoor and indoor spaces, blending style, functionality, and personal expression. These artistic pieces are hand crafted intricate metalwork and vibrant murals for eco-friendly conscious gardens and homes.

Come and see the fabulous new products along with many more Harrogate Home & Gift –Harrogate – 20-23 July 2025

– Hall DP4- Stand B21 Autumn Fair – NEC Birmingham –7-10 September 2025 - Hall 6 Stand J30 sales@tilnarart.co.uk www.tilnarart.co.uk

1: The ‘Signature Collection’ Candle Gift Sets

Launching at Harrogate Home & Gift this July is Cotton & Grey’s ‘Signature’ Collection, a curation of its 16 bestselling titles from across the many collections of the 20 minute relaxation candles. Available in four unique design themes, each offering a distinct aesthetic to keep the customer offering fresh and focused. The pattern ranges are Vintage, Abstract, Floral and Folk, while they have also been released in the popular ‘Little Box of’ collection so that both title selections can be mixed seamlessly within a POS unit. Each box contains 12 candles with a ceramic holder. See all the designs across the collections at www.cottonandgrey.com/brochure.pdf

Cotton & Grey

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP4-C03

T: Paul on 07931 373756

E: info@cottonandgrey.com

W: www.cottonandgrey.com

2: On The Go Fun

Plus-Plus’ Activity Pads have made an impressive start and are highly sought after by travel retailers, now being available on cruise ships and in service stations in the UK. The pads contain 125 pieces, kept safely in a secure box, and six pages of activities containing 12 2D and 3D builds, where two items can be constructed at one time. The pads are perfect for on the go fun and entertainment and are sure to be a hit for families wanting to entertain their children while travelling, folding neatly away when it’s time to go. The four themes available are Space, Ocean, Fairytale and Transport. Plus-Plus looks forward to welcoming visitors to its stand at the Harrogate Home & Gift Fair.

Plus-Plus

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand B-C25

T: 03330 500 144

E: info.uk@plus-plus.com

W: www.plus-plus.com

3: Perfect Gifts For Dog Lovers

The Little Dog Laughed is loved by people who love dogs! Need award winning pet inspired collections that have an established pedigree and a super loyal following? Look no further. It was a category winner at Gift of the Year 2024 with the A Dog's Life gift book in partnership with Dogs Trust. Delightful artwork with humorous and heartfelt captions featuring real dogs and cats. Available on greeting cards, homeware and gifts.

The Little Dog Laughed

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1 A39

T: Gavin Smith - 01332 290605

E: info@thelittledog.co.uk

W: www.thelittledog.co.uk

4: Woody Pals

Unveiling in Harrogate, Woody Pals features on a stylish new four-sided stand. Two sides of the stand showcase the popular Wooden Animal Keyrings, while the other two sides are dedicated to Woody Pals - 72 unique, characterful keyrings designed to bring a smile to every customer.

Global Journey

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Hall A, Stand B23

T: 0161 872 0333

E: isamuels@global-journey.com

W: www.global-journey.com

5: Perfect Gift For Art Lovers

Particularly popular with adults and the perfect tube for arts enthusiasts is the new Inspired Series tube featuring the artist Edward Munch - The Scream. Builders can be inspired by the colours to follow Munch’s iconic scream face or create their own works of art by using the subtle palette of colours featured in his famous painting. This and the other six Inspired tubes are each displayed in an attractive gift box and include an educational flyer outlining the history of artists’ work and life.

Plus-Plus

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand B-C25

T: 03330 500 144

E: info.uk@plus-plus.com

W: www.plus-plus.com

your

The Gift of the Year competition has been successfully running for 47 years and attracts an amazing pool of talent from our diverse and creative industry.

The awards celebrate the best new products to market. At its heart it’s all about raising your profile, boosting your brand, and getting you in front of retail judges.

‘‘

We’ve definitely noticed a little extra sparkle around our ranges since being shortlisted – buyers are engaging more and customers are cheering us on! Being a finalist gives us a lovely boost of credibility, especially when talking to new stockists or entering new markets

Santoro, 2025

To find out more visit www.giftoftheyear.co.uk

@the.giftoftheyear.awards

1: Bright And Uplifting Gifts

Destination giftware from The Littler Places - each landmark or building is hand drawn and painted in Julie’s bright and uplifting style, giving your gift shop something unique and definitely eye-catching. Made using UK companies where possible, with high sustainability credentials, the range includes jigsaws, chocolate, fridge magnets, mugs, cards, prints and more. Bespoke or current images available. Now, isn’t that something to smile about!

The Littler Places

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP3-A03

T: 07713 120190

Whatsapp: 07903 544850

E: hello@thelittlerplaces.co.uk

W: www.thelittlerplaces.co.uk

2: Limited Edition New Oud & Leather

Cereria Mollá 1899 introduces Oud & Leather, a luxurious limited edition candle and diffuser fragrance. The richly layered scent blends warm sandalwood and smoky oud with subtle hints of leather and spice. Handcrafted with care and heritage, it captures the essence of quiet luxury. Sophisticated and powerful, it’s a statement in scent from a brand steeped in tradition, quality and understated elegance.

Cereria Mollá 1899

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand: Hall A-A21

T: (+34) 96 290 10 96  E: info@CM1899UK.com

W: www.cereriamolla.com

3: Birthday In A Box

Games, Puzzles and Gifts - catering for the whole family, University Games and Lagoon will have their extensive product line-up on display, including Lagoon’s new Birthday in a Box range. From 18 to 60, make every milestone birthday unforgettable with the Birthday in a Box all-in-one Celebration Kit. A Birthday Trivia Card Game, Booklet of Birthday Fun Facts, Happy Birthday Badge and a Cake Topper are just some of the goodies included. University Games and Lagoon

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1– D81 & D91

T: 020 7254 0100

W: www.university-games.co.uk

4: Luna Collection New Fragrance

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

Stoneglow

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B05

T: 020 8595 8878

E: trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

W: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Products New

3

5: Just Because DuosPerfect for Gifting

Best Kept Secrets is launching its ‘Just Because’ Duos at Harrogate Home & Gift. Each duo features two seriously scented candle tins with coordinated messages like ‘Happy Birthday’ and ‘Make a Wish, beautifully presented in a matching gift bag. Ideal for the under £10 gift market.

Best Kept Secrets

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand A-A16

T: 01670 512222

E: info@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

W: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Gift Of

The Year 2026

Home & Gift in Harrogate will, once again, be the official launchpad for the Gift of the Year Awards 2026, organised by The Giftware Association, with 100 plus retail judges expected to be on the judging panel.

PG&H asked The GA’s PR and marketing manager, Chris Workman, what makes a Gift of The Year winner?

As the largest recognised product awards in the gift industry, there will, again, be a frisson of excitement among suppliers as the 2026 Gift of the Year awards, now in their 47th year, kick off at this month’s Harrogate Home & Gift.

The question that everyone wants to know, of course, is what makes a Gift of the Year entrant a winner?

“It’s a tough one,” admits The GA’s PR and marketing manager Chris Workman, who has been at the helm of the competition for the past nine years. “There are so many great products that get entered each year. We sometimes see products that we think might be winners, but it can be a curve ball as to the products that get through to the final

doubts about entering, or about the competition per se, then we strongly advise would-be entrants to contact the team at The GA. We can guide companies through the entry process, giving them peace of mind that they’ve done everything they possibly can before their products are seen by the judges.”

He emphasises that good photographs are

much about styled, lifestyle shots as the level of photography has been greatly elevated.”

As he highlights, the first round of judging is online in December, and it can be challenging

The People’s Choice Award

Over 12,000 votes - the biggest entry yet, up by 20% on last year - were received for this year’s Gift of the Year’s People Choice award, which is voted for by the general public. All shortlisted companies are eligible.

“The top five companies across the board each received over 1,000 votes,” confirms

Inset: Judges are shown at the Gift of the Year’s live judging at Spring Fair in February. Below: Pikkii’s Sam Fern and Em Lemaitre-Downton and Sam Fern show off a hat trick of Gift of the Year trophies.

Bottom: The Gift of the Year 2026 trophy standing proud.

Chris. Now in its fifth year, the People’s Choice winner 2026 will be announced by Victoria Louise, The GA’s head of membership, at Harrogate Home & Gift’s Sundowners party which will be held at the end of the first day of the show (Sunday 20 July).

for judges. “It’s the first time they get to see the products, so getting photography right is very important. The more interesting and ‘real’ companies can make their photography the better. We’re happy to accept videos too.”

Continues Chris: “Companies also have the opportunity to enter their products across multiple categories which not only increases their chances of becoming a finalist, or winning, but also works out at a cheaper price per entry. For example, a product that fits into the Best Health, Wellbeing & Accessible Gift Product category might also be a fit with the Best Ethical & Sustainable category.”

Of course, maximum exposure for brands is very much what the competition is all about. “It’s why entering more than one category also allows an entrant to widen their reach in terms of getting their products seen by different judges,” points out Chris. “This year, we are expecting over 150 judges, but not all judges vote in every category, although many do. Some judges prefer to only judge the category or categories where they feel they have a particular interest or expertise. So simply by entering, all products have the opportunity of being seen by numerous different types of retailers.”

Another plus for entrants is that, through each stage of the competition, the GA creates showcases, events and displays at key UK trade shows, to include a Gift of the Year winners showcase at this year’s Harrogate Home & Gift. Next will be Autumn Fair in September, Giving & Living in January, and, most importantly, Spring Fair in February, where, for the past few years, the second round live judging takes place throughout the duration of the show. “All of this gives a company, a brand, enormous exposure,” says Chris. “For example, once again, our Gift of the Year judging area at Spring Fair in February drove traffic - and orders - to the shortlisted companies who were exhibiting and even to those that were not.”

So, what’s the most frequently asked Gift of the Year question? “Companies usually query the PDF section of the entry form,” Chris reports. “When companies go through the

Gift Of The Year 2026 Categories

l Best Affordable Gift Product

l Best Beauty, Bath & Spa Product

l Best Branded and Licensed Gift Product or Range

l Best Cards, Wrap & Stationery Product

l Best Children’s Educational Product

l Best Contemporary Gift Product

Gift Of The Year Timeline

entry process – product description, photos etc – there is a section where we ask for a PDF that we can use for the Gift of the Year brochure. It gives entrants an opportunity to showcase not only the product they’ve entered but also the range, giving judges a real insight into the brand.”

As for categories, among the most popular for entrants, and growing year on year, is Best Branded Gift Product, which for 2026 is being renamed Best Branded and Licensed Gift Product. “Licensing is incredibly important and valuable to the home and giftware industry for all sides of retail,” comments Chris. “From a Gift of the Year perspective, we have seen the Branded Gift category really shift over the years, not just the bigger businesses but smaller brands too, who are realising the fantastic opportunities that licensing collaborations bring. This has really grown the category with a big variety of product collaborations with well-known licensees.” (In 2025, the Best Branded Gift Product category winner was Blade & Rose for its The Gruffalo collection).

Home fragrance is another strong one, with the 2025 Best Home Fragrance Product category won by Design Collective’s Paddywax A Dopo. “This year’s entrants really impressed me,” states Chris, “particularly the design of the vessels, containers and packaging, along with the fragrances of course,” he states. At every stage of the competition, entrants will receive promotional marketing material to

l Best Design & Craft Product

l Best Ethical & Sustainable Gift Product

l Best Fashion Accessories, Textiles & Jewellery Product

l Best Festive & Occasions Product

l Best Food & Drink Product

l Best Games & Puzzles Product

l Best Garden & Outdoors Product

l Best Health, Wellbeing & Accessible Gift Product

30 NOVEMBER, 2025: Entries close (“but our worst-kept secret is that we do usually extend this a couple of weeks,” says Chris).

DECEMBER, 2025: Judges view products and vote online.

2 JANUARY, 2026: The shortlist is announced.

2-5 FEBRUARY, 2026: Live judging at Spring Fair.

LATE FEBRUARY, 2026: Finalists announced (the top six products in each category).

14 MAY, 2026: The winners are announced at The Gift Awards. (Dates subject to change.)

boost their brand, as well as ways to fanfare achievements. From the start, all entrants will be able to feature a Gift of the Year ‘Nominated’ logo on their products, their printed and digital marketing material, as well as on their stand at a trade show, all of which will attract the eye of buyers. “We’ve also done podcasts in the past,” points out Chris. “This all helps to build up a brand in front of an audience, significantly raising the entrant’s profile.”

As with previous years, the 2025 Gift of the Year winners will be announced at The Gift Awards 2026, which take place at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel on 14 May 2026, alongside the winners of The Greats Awards 2025.

For more about this year’s Gift of the Year email: chris.workman@ga-uk.org. To enter products and ranges visit awards@ga-uk.org.

l Best Heritage Gift Product

l Best Home Fragrance Gift Product or Range

l Best Home & Kitchen Gift Product

l Best Made In The UK Gift Product

l Best Novelty, Tech & Gadgets Product

l Best Pet Gift Product

l The Judges’ Choice Award

Below: A proud Andrea Harkin, ceo of House of Marbles, winner of the Gift of the Year Awards Best Novelty, Tech & Gadgets Product category, with her trophy.

And Beautiful Big, Bold

to get cooler, jewellery will definitely be hotting up, with rich warm tones and gold pieces a strong vibe for Autumn/Winter.

PG&H asked some of the leading suppliers in the sector for their take on what will be adorning necks, wrists, fingers and ears.

As we transition from the pretty jewellery of summer to warmer, vibrant colours of Autumn/Winter, an eclectic, diverse array of pieces will be winging their way into shops.

“Autumn/Winter is always fun for the accessories sector, a time to embrace the theatre of the season,” says Hot Tomato’s managing director Alex Machin. “Retailers should be on the lookout for metallic finishes, jeweled colour palettes, as well as the growing trend for stainless steel jewellery.”

She highlights that rings are also in ascendancy, especially adjustable, stackable styles. “Don’t hold back!” she advises. “More is always more as people style their way into the winter months.”

Tassel jewellery too, is becoming a huge trend for Autumn/Winter. “Tassel necklaces and earrings are definitely having a moment. Flattering, yet playful, the tassel has a sophisticated appeal,” says Joe Davies’ fashion director Mary Caputo, “with the brand new Equilibrium Tassel Collection from Joe Davies featuring necklaces, bracelets and earrings all incorporating long fluid tassels to add drama and intrigue to a minimal look.”

opportunities, styling items in ways that directly reflect their own personalities.

At CME, the company will be focusing on both practicality and personality over the coming months. “Voluminous jewellery is a staple of our lineup for the latter half of the year,” confirms CME’s Debbie Hunt, administrative manager. “These new electroformed designs create organic silhouettes offering volume with a light feel. Paired with lower price points, the jewellery suits those seeking high-quality impact pieces that remain wearable every day.”

“Plus, amber continues to be a timeless favourite, although this season we’re noticing a playful twist in that wildlife designs are becoming increasingly trendy, with amber animals offering warmth, charm and a touch of whimsy.”

She adds that the company is also seeing a strong movement towards asymmetry and individuality, with single earrings becoming increasingly popular. “End-consumers are really responding to the mix and match

Crumble & Core’s director, Jilly Mercer Pont, concurs: “Warmth and colour is definitely the new trend for Autumn/Winter 2025. Reflecting this, we have created an Indian inspired colour theme that features bright rich surface pattern combinations. Pinks, oranges, turquoise and greens, yellow, bright greens and blues, have been matched with the warmth of a gold necklace and finished with a bright pink envelope to complete the vibrant colour palette.”

Continues Jilly: “All of the necklaces are a combination of modern, simple designs and can be layered or worn alone for any occasion.”

Inset: New from Joma Jewellery are Laboratory Grown Diamonds.

Below: New sterling silver jewellery from Sea Gems’ brand Silver Origins. Bottom: Electroform

Inset: The Equilibrium Tassel Collection from Joe Davies.

Also “adventuring with colour” is Miss Milly, with the company’s seasonal jewellery palette revealing fuchsia and lime green, allowing darker, more traditional colours, such as grey and navy blue, to be uplifted. Dark reds and purples too, are very prominent.

Miss Milly’s managing director, Sarah Watmore, also highlights new resin pieces, such as the Deco necklace, featuring bold pops of colour, with the hand-painted jewellery selection including some of the company’s boldest designs to date, such as a striking lime green and midblue statement Emmental necklace that has a creative, holey design. Plus, new designs in the company’s magnetic brooch range feature animals and birds incorporating semi-precious and acrylic beads. Among them are squirrels and geckos, with a new robin and cat.

At Sea Gems, the company’s Silver Origins jewellery brand features contemporary sterling silver with a handcrafted charm,” says director Marcus Price.

At Cavendish French, autumn/winter 2025 is all about embracing rich, warm tones and timeless design. “Gold vermeil jewellery remains a standout trend, bringing a blend of designer style and affordable luxury that includes refined silhouettes,” says the company’s Anna Haynes. “It’s classic with a contemporary twist."

But it’s not only gold that’s dominating the jewellery market for autumn/winter.

“Attention to detail is everything with delicately textured, polished surfaces, together with gold vermeil or semi-precious stones inspired by our roots.”

The collection also features organic designs, intricate beachcomber shells, botanical and wildlife designs as well as fun, whimsical motifs that celebrate moments of love and life. “They’re every day, wearable creations designed to endure,” says Marcus. Meanwhile, launching at Joma Jewellery this season is the brand’s new Laboratory Grown Diamonds. “This first-to-market collection pairs bestselling and milestone birthday sentiments with Laboratory Grown Diamonds, set in an enhanced silver plating, making diamonds accessible to every type of customer,” says the company’s founder Katie Loxton. She adds that ribbons and bows are currently everywhere, with the brand’s Christmas packaging no exception.

gift sets which are tied up in a double bow in foil-embossed plum red and blush pink packaging.

More on the jewellery front is that, at Katie

Festive ‘A Littles’ and boxed Christmas crackers will be making their return, alongside two new velvet stocking

With Men In Mind

As for men’s jewellery, there’s a wealth of pieces and styles for men who like to accessorise to impress. “Men’s jewellery is now worn as a staple rather than considered unusual and a bit daring,” says Midhaven’s Alison Smethurst. “Multiple bracelets are everyday wear, and although conservative jewellery has an important place, men are increasingly expressing themselves through what they choose to wear and are discerning.”

She says that natural stones, soft leather, vegan options, texture, colour and symbolic motifs are all selling well, with ease of wear and comfort important considerations when purchasing, as is longevity and quality.

With Halloween in mind, new from Midhaven is Beasties & Gothic in real silver and stainless-steel. Quips Alison, “the jewellery is mainly for men, with the odd item for maidens, featuring ghastly rings, paranormal pendants, enigmatic earrings and Macbethian bracelets!”

featuring brand new birthstone earrings laced with real semi-precious birthstone beads and gold charms. The brand has also added oversized, sculptural shapes to its curated collection which have been designed to make a statement, alongside woven designs that co-ordinate with the brand’s bag collections. (See Bags And All That Jazz on page 57).

From rings ‘n’ things and mix ‘n’ match single earrings to tassel necklaces, warm golds and vibrant colourways, there’s clearly a tremendous choice for retailers looking to ‘wow’ their customers over the coming months.

Right: Stackable rings from Hot Tomato Inset: Among the new men’s jewellery from Midhaven.

Inset: Gold earrings from Cavendish French.

Inset: Miss Milly’s Emmental necklace.

Top left: Necklaces from Crumble & Core with an Indian-inspired colour theme.

Bags And All That Jazz

Joe Davies’ fashion director, Mary Caputo, says that this winter’s hot trends in accessories will be the opposite of quiet luxury. “Trends will be influenced by a mix of nostalgia and personalisation, with faux fur, faux sheepskin and animal prints dominating,” she states.

Explains Mary: “The Equilibrium Autumn/Winter 2025 fashion accessories collection will include a wide range of faux fur and faux sheepskin handbags and totes in varying shapes and sizes, all with the softness of texture and refinement of shapes. Additionally, fashion is going wild for the return of animal prints, with its versatility ensuring it never truly goes out of style. The collection is tapping into the trend with a large selection of faux fur animal print bags, scarves and gloves.”

addition, iconic classics have been updated with seasonal colourways such as cherry red and frosted green.

Also new to the brand for autumn/winter will be soft-to-thetouch teddy mittens, fluffy gift boxed socks and recycled tassel scarves.

“The brand’s gifting selection has also been updated with bestselling boxed keyrings and card holders reimagined in festive-inspired printed packaging,” highlights founder Katie Loxton.

At Miss Milly, autumn/winter sees the addition of a capsule collection of handcrafted velvet pouches and purses in two sizes, with intricate beaded and sequin décor based on the brand’s magnetic brooches. While the smaller pouch can be used as a make-up bag, the larger pouch can be worn as an evening and occasion bag.

As for the brand’s colourful, recycled leather bag collection, larger handbag styles have been introduced. A smaller, multicolour striped handbag will also be launched alongside a coordinating wallet purse. The scarf collection meanwhile, features a seasonal palette.

Also seeing a demand for animal print is Beau & Elliot. Among its new launches this September will be a Love Your Lunch Bag collection for fashionistas on the go. Other coordinated accessories include a matching hold-all, water bottle and a travel mug.

Katie Loxton meanwhile, will be launching easy luxury with tactile textures and details that include signature branded beads and statement studs, with hand-woven finishes and crackle vegan leather across new bag silhouettes that include Nova and Taya. In

For those who love on trend specs, Opticaid’s buying director Gill Marchant, highlights that Remaldi’s fashion reading glasses blend trendforward design with sustainable innovation. “The upcoming season sees a mix of bold statements and refined minimalism,” she confirms, adding that design trends for AW25 continue to balance the oversized with the micro. “Bold frames remain in demand, delivering impact and personality,” she says.

The company’s new shapes include Bamberg, a versatile unisex style in contemporary colours, alongside fresh colourways for styles such as Barnes Almond and York Sage. Gill adds that the resurgence of '90s nostalgia is also influencing a return to smaller silhouettes, with Remaldi introducing the Paris frame in Dusk and Tortoise.

Sustainability remains core to the brand’s ethos, with many of the new

crafted from recycled plastics. Building on AW24’s burgundy tones, AW25 will be embracing shades such as deep cherry with a new colourway, Stamford Cherry, as well as purples, earthy browns and greens, with contrasts from retro inspired turquoise, buttery yellow and a punchy flame red. “In line with the trend for high-saturation statement accessories, we have expanded the popular Annecy range with a bold new entry, Annecy in Electric, a popping fuchsia,” adds Gill.

styles

Inset: New reading glasses styles from Opticaid.

Elliot lunch bag and accessories.

Below: The Equilibrium from Joe Davies Autumn/Winter 2025 fashion accessories collection.

Mini Charms Collection RRP from £24.99

Nova Hand Woven Large Shoulder Bag

£79.99, Chocolate

The Curated Collection, Waterproof Jewellery RRP from £22.99

Christmas Collection

from £18.99

1: Make A Statement

Discover the latest Remaldi reading glasses collection for AW25 at Harrogate Home & Gift. With over 25 new styles in rich autumnal tones - from fuchsia and purple to amber, brown, and nature-inspired greens - the range blends bold statement looks and 1990s inspired narrow shapes with recycled materials. Look out for standout styles like York Sage, Annecy Electric, Paris Dusk, plus unisex Bamberg Olive, as well as new accessories coming soon.

Opticaid

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand A-B16

T: 0113 239 1400

E: sales@opticaid.net

W: www.opticaid.net

2: Elegant Quatrefoil Turquoise Jewellery

Capture summer style with the on-trend turquoise quatrefoil earrings and pendants. Bold yet elegant, the versatile unbranded pieces make ideal gift sets for the season and offer total flexibility in packaging and presentation - perfect for boutique retailers looking to customise.

CME Leicester

T: 0116 283 2240

E: Assist@cmejewellery.co.uk

W: www.cmejewellery.co.uk

Products New

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the

3: Fabulous New Colourful Ranges

AW25/26 sees a huge refresh of the jewellery collection with a host of new designs and a fashion-led colour palette in both the resin and hand-painted ranges. The spotlight is on dark reds, blues and corals with touches of yellow, while there is a new gloss painted finish for extra shine on some pieces. Gorgeous scarves complement the jewellery in fresh, seasonal colourways featuring abstracts, florals and geometrics. Minimum order £100 with no MOQ, carriage paid order £300. Miss Milly

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP3-B08 T: 01905 622509

E: hello@missmilly.co.uk

W: www.missmilly.co.uk

4: Vibrant New Jewellery Collection

Carrie Elspeth has unveiled her autumn/winter 2025 jewellery collection. Discover glittery studs, stunning glass designs, new gemstones, plus some festive Christmas Sentiments. Visit her stand at Harrogate Home and Gift to enjoy a Welshcake, while exploring the vibrant new range and amazing show offer. Known for exceptional colour, quality and customer service, Carrie also offers no minimum order quantities, branded packaging and display stands - making it easy for retailers to stock up. Carrie Elspeth

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A09

T: 01446 771271

E: sales@carrieelspeth.com

W: www.carrieelspeth.com

5: Lightweight Luxury Electroformed Earrings

Introducing the electroformed pear drop earrings –crafted with precision for exceptional lightness and comfort. The growing trend is redefining contemporary jewellery design, and the unbranded, retailready format makes them ideal for custom branding. Lightweight luxury, made to move.

CME Leicester

T: 0116 283 2240

E: Assist@cmejewellery.co.uk

W: www.cmejewellery.co.uk

jewellery and fashion products to be showcased this month 2 3 5

6: Equilibrium Twisted Bliss

The new Equilibrium Twisted Bliss Collection from Joe Davies (Harrogate Home and Gift Hall B-A02) is a bold new jewellery range where modern design meets effortless elegance. Featuring a striking selection of necklaces, earrings and bracelets, each piece showcases a distinctive ‘twist’ that captures movement and fluidity. Plated in real silver and gold, with some styles blending both for a chic two-tone effect, the collection is all about contemporary sophistication. Select pieces are adorned with shimmering gemstones, adding just the right touch of sparkle. Perfectly on trend and endlessly versatile, the stylish designs offer a new ‘twist’ on everyday glamour. Joe Davies

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand B-A02

T: 0161 975 6300

E: sales@joedavies.co.uk

W: www.joedavies.co.uk

6

2

Products New

Progressive Gifts & Home

some

3

5 4

1: A Sparkling New Season Awaits

Joma Jewellery’s just landed AW25 collection is designed to capture every memory, moment and milestone in the most meaningful way. This season, the brand introduces innovative Laboratory Grown Diamonds set in enhanced silver plating; a first-to-market range that makes luxury accessible for all. Festive favourites and bestsellers also return, including the strong selling A Littles with even more sweet sentiments to choose from, playful Christmas Crackers, plus two new velvet Stocking Gift Sets, each beautifully finished with double bows and foil-embossed packaging to inspire gifting stories in every store.

Joma Jewellery

T: 01295 263430

E: enquiries@jomajewellery.com

W: www.wholesale.jomajewellery.com

2: Sensational Slouch Bag

Hot Tomato have embraced this season’s hot trend and taken their hugely popular leather slouch bag and given it the metallic treatment, and we are absolutely loving it! Tactile and utterly glamorous this is the kind of bag that really does improve with use and age & there’s not many things you can say that about!

Launching at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Hot Tomato

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-D05

T: 01225 422188

E: sales@hot-tom.com

W: www.hot-tom.com

3: Bang On Trend Beauties

Hot Tomato continues to extend their StainlessSteel offering with these gorgeous gold-plated rings - being adjustable is key there’s no size malarky here! This seasons trend signals more is more with this category so layer away, stack ‘em up, wear on very digit – whatever your vibe these beauties are bang on trend! Launching at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Hot Tomato

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-D05

T: 01225 422188

E: sales@hot-tom.com

W: www.hot-tom.com

4: Spoilt For Choice

Tribal Steel by Midhaven is the UK’s leading brand for men’s bracelets and will be showing a number of new styles at the show. The men’s real stone bead bracelets come in a choice of drawstring, elasticated and lobster fastenings, plus many styles and stones. RRPs range from £8.75 - £20.00. All bracelets come in a natural hessian pouch and point of sale is available. Supple Tribal Steel leather bracelets come in over 200 styles in a choice of sizes and colours, with competitive prices and top-quality materials. With additional ranges like the recycled Tribal Earth, and Tribal Sports, the brand aims to cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Also on display will be new silver jewellery lines from Midhaven’s popular and good value CZ, Beasties & Goth, Opalique and Lavish Silver ranges.

Midhaven

Visit: Home & Gift Show, Stand C-B29

T: 01299 851513

E: info@midhaven.co.uk

W: ww.midhaven.co.uk

5: An Autumn/Winter To Remember

This autumn/winter, Katie Loxton puts easy luxury front and centre. While timeless profiles and soft-to-touch suedette remain, the collection has been elevated with branded beads, statement studs and minimal, chic silhouettes. A rich palette of chocolate brown, cherry and frosted greens meets trending textures like hand-woven vegan leather. Meanwhile, the Christmas gifting selection has also been refreshed with gift boxed socks, stylish keyring and cardholder sets, and cosy home fragrances, ready to make every unboxing moment feel extra special.

Katie Loxton

T: 01295 250879

E: enquiries@katieloxton.com

W: www.wholesale.katieloxton.com

6: Frightfully Spooky Designs

6

Midhaven sells bone-chilling the Beasties & Gothic collection, real silver and stainless steel jewellery that is not intended for spectral wimps. The range includes diabolical designs, made mainly for men with the odd item for maidens, and in the dead of night, you can see ghastly rings, paranormal pendants, enigmatic earrings and Macbethian bracelets. Made in sinister sterling silver, with horrifying RRPs from £20.00 to £200.00. Items cast from sinister stainless steel are frighteningly less expensive. Each wicked design brings a certain style and is worshipped by generations of frightful individuals (and the odd, frankly boring soul). If you’re looking for a good range of wicked designs, contact the ghastly but helpful humans at Midhaven. It would be wicked if you came to see the company at Harrogate Home & Gift, London Jewellery Show at Olympia and Autumn Fair.

Midhaven

Visit: Home & Gift Show, Stand C-B29

T: 01299 851513

E: info@midhaven.co.uk

W: ww.midhaven.co.uk

Bridging The Gap

Leaves changing to deep russet, burnt orange and yellow-y gold; that slight morning chill in the air; the smell of a new school year beginning – it’s a scenario that’s familiar to us all as we all hope for an Indian summer while embracing the start of Autumn.

For gift shops, it’s a season that has become something of a winner, creating a new vibe in terms of both display and product. It is, after all, a big jump from Father’s Day to Christmas, with Autumn and Halloween nicely filling a seasonal/occasions

Spooky ghosts, scary spiders, pointy nosed witches and smiling pumpkins are sure to be among the gift and home items winging their way to gift retailers in the coming weeks, with Autumn too, an increasingly important opportunity for shops to create evocative windows and in store displays featuring the distinctive colours that reflect the season.

around it and it was our most featured press shot by some distance,” Jo confirms. “Therefore, for the coming season, we’re launching Hot Stuff and Autumn, collections that are a bridge from high summer to autumn to winter.”

store and online.

Talking Tables’ head of brand development, Jo Jeffery, highlights that the company became very aware of the market demand for an Autumn collection via feedback from agents and customers, but especially through the success of an autumnal paper napkin design Talking Tables launched featuring leaves, mushrooms and acorns. “We styled an autumnal tablescape

Explains Jo: “Hot Stuff was inspired by the success of our summer Bon Appetit range which had a strong focus on enamel. We have built on this range with additions of Autumn colours to tie in with our Autumn range of felt bunting, crochet flowers, a new napkin and fabric gingham tablecloth and tea towel. We have also added enamel dipping bowls, small bowls, jugs and serveware with an iconic chilli motif which we have used across a range of other products too. These include an on-trend fabric embroidered sign, recycled plastic tote bag and tin tray all featuring a stripe, chilli and our wavy line motifs. Additionally, we’ve also added this trending motif to 3D candles as well as to a novelty chilli-shaped candle holder.”

At Gisela Graham, Autumn ’25 sees an abundance of new products in rich, earthy colours, with plenty of texture. They include an orange physalis wreath, woodland and spiced scented boxed candles as well as an orange velvet pumpkin ornament. “Of

Inset: Talking Tables’ Autumn tablescape. Below left: Autumn Days from Something Different Wholesale has a cosy, autumnal feel.

Inset: A brown stoneware oak leaf jug from Gisela Graham is part of a wider autumnal range.

particular note this season is our extended ceramics range which includes reactive stoneware pieces, all with a sculptural mushroom theme, and a selection of vases, dishes and bowls designed around leaf shapes,” comments commercial manager Mark Jones. “The overall trend is definitely towards items imbued with the feel of nature.”

Joe Davies’ managing director, Paul Hooker, says that preparations for Autumn 2025 have been non-stop. “We have some great on trend products making their debut at Harrogate Home & Gift,” he confirms. “The trade is Highland Coo crazy, and we have lots of products featuring an autumnal feel, with toadstools, plant pots, watering cans and farmer themes all featuring.

“Printed tin is in,” he continues, “with embossed, delicate high-definition printing in floral designs giving a modern look to classic products. Hotly tipped are pressed coloured glass, particularly heavy candle and tealight holders, in darker colours such as teal, dark plum, green, and crimson.”

At Something Different Wholesale, buying manager Rebecca Hawkes, says that for Autumn 2025, product development has been aligned by evolving lifestyle and design trends. A key theme this Autumn is the continued popularity of the ‘staying in’ mindset, with being a homebody now something to be celebrated, and cosiness central to shaping our two new collections –Autumn Days, featuring cuddly motifs and seasonal touches, such as pumpkin spice lattes, and Autumn Magic which brings a more whimsical, dreamy feel, with celestial motifs such as moons and stars, and a rich palette of burnt orange and deep navy.”

Sass and Belle’s head of design, Chloe Mills, points to an Autumn 2025 collection, “that is full of character and charm. Shades of pink and red are very prominent for this season across several product ranges,” she highlights. The key trends we have focused on include cherries, bows, ducks and croissants with additions to our Mojave and animal ranges.”

At Portland Living from Gainsborough Gifts, the Autumn season has continued to grow each year, with the range expanding again for 2025. “We have drawn inspiration from nature and developed interior pieces which are rich in colour featuring intense

Key interior items include jugs, vases and decorative pumpkins as well as gifting items including decorative ornaments, signs and mugs. “We predict that pumpkins will continue to trend for Autumn, as well as other seasonal homegrown vegetables, seeds and nuts, such as acorns. These feature on print and as vessels to include vases and shaped dishes.”

For gift retailers, there’s a ‘harvest festival’ of themed home and giftware to choose from, ranging from decorations and home fragrance to more serious pieces for the home and garden. As the days get shorter and the nights longer, they’re just the ticket for adding an autumnal vibe and pop of colour and cosiness.

Inset: Decorative pumpkins from Portland Gifts.

Below: Sass & Belle’s decorative pumpkin.

Right: Autumn sparkle from Candlelight. Below right: Something Different’s Cute and Creepy range.

spooky TheSeason

As Halloween gains traction year on year, it’s no longer the supermarkets and bargain volume stores that are making the most of the commercial opportunities. With many gift and home suppliers expanding their product ranges due to demand, gift retailers too, will be spoilt for choice this year when it comes to home décor and garden items.

“We now have five core ranges featuring everything from ghosts and black cats to witches and monsters,” confirms Something Different Wholesale’s Rebecca Hawkes. “We’ve also introduced smaller additions such as garden ornaments and haunted house décor.”

She predicts a strong trend towards witch-themed décor, driven in part by the success of the Wicked movie, with part 2 on the horizon. “We’ve also tapped into the growing ‘creepy cute’ trend which puts a playful twist on traditional Halloween themes,” Rebecca adds.

At Sass & Belle, head of design, Chloe Mills, says that as seasonal home décor grows in popularity, there is a need for decorative additions that can easily be added to interior trends.

“With that in mind, we have added Halloween themed decorations into our recycled paper category for eco conscious buyers. They are reusable year on year and a sustainable product choice. We have also created a characterful mini bat planter that will be ‘hanging around’ all year,” she quips.

“Halloween remains an important seasonal occasion for us and this year is no different, with the launch of an array of witches, pumpkins, spiders and ghoul decorations and ornaments, many of which are new

for this year,” highlights Mark Jones at Gisela Graham. “Although Halloween isn’t a season that has stand-out trends, the feel is always one of all-round scariness and pretty much anything in the traditional categories can perform well in sales terms,” confirms Mark.

Enesco meanwhile, is building on the success of the Disney character Stitch. “We’re launching three new Stitch figurines dressed up in Halloween themed costumesGlow in the Dark Skeleton Stitch, Spider Stitch and Pumpkin Stitch,” highlights trade marketing manager Aylish Ellwood. Also offering a Halloween collection this year is Talking Tables. “The focus is on cats, with lots of cat dress up, cat face shaped plates and napkins, and hanging honeycomb cat skeletons,” confirms the company’s Jo Jeffery. The collection also features two ceramic pieces for the first time, again on the cat theme, with two pumpkin heads. “All Autumn/Halloween collections feature a complementary colour palette and merchandise seamlessly together,” points out Jo.

While not specifically for Halloween, Paul Hooker, managing director of Joe Davies, says that the company’s exclusive distribution of Gus Fink Studios plush is ideal for the run into Halloween. “It will give the brand a nice boost with consumers,” comments Paul. “We have Highland Coos with a pumpkin theme, ghosts and LED glass pumpkins all joining the line up.”

Top: Halloween themed ceramics from Talking Tables.

Above left: Glow in the Dark Skeleton Stitch from Enesco. Left: Striking Gus Fink plush from Joe Davies.

Below: A Trick or Treat wooden sign from Global Journey.

1: Light Up Your Room This Autumn!

The personalised Autumn Gonk LED glass jar from Personalised Memento Company creates a cosy atmosphere in any room.

With a warm ambient glow and fully personalised, the versatile gift can be used for all occasions, from celebrating the autumn season, wishing a happy birthday, or even as a special gift for your own home. Part of PMC’s new autumn collection, visit the website to see the full range. PMC

E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

W: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

2: Pumpkin Spice Latte

Already a seasonal favourite, the bestselling ceramic oil burner is beautifully shaped like a pumpkin spice latte and is quickly becoming a must-have this autumn. Perfect for melting autumn-inspired wax melts and fragrant oils, it fills any room with cosy seasonal scents. A top choice for home styling and an ideal gift for coffee lovers and autumn enthusiasts alike.

Exclusively designed by Something Different. Something Different Wholesale

T: 01792 940288

E: Customercare@somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

W: www.somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

3: Enchanting New Fragrance

Unveil your destiny with Enesco this Halloween with the enchanting new fragrance from Yankee Candle. Mystical Tarot Card captures the senses with a blend of fruity, woody and spicy notes. Opening with bursts of mandarin, star anise and crisp apple, leading into a heart of rich cherry leather, warming cinnamon bark and bold black liquorice. Available in signature Yankee Candle formats Large Jar and Small Tumbler. Enesco

T: + 44 1228 404022

E: uksales@enesco.co.uk

W: www.enesco.co.uk

4: Packed With Wicked Surprises

Count down to the spookiest night of the year with the Shelf of Shadows 12-Day Advent Calendar, packed with wicked surprises behind every door. Discover miniature resin treasures like a crystal ball, witch’s hat, sleeping black cat and more, adding playful mystery and charm to the Halloween season. Ideal for spooky enthusiasts of all ages, it’s a fun way to build excitement.

Exclusively designed by Something Different.

Something Different Wholesale

T: 01792 940288

E: Customercare@somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

W: www.somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

5: Cast A Seasonal Spell

Products New

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest halloween products to be showcased this month

2 3 5

Shaped like a mystical book of spells, the ceramic flower vase brings an enchanting, gothic charm to autumn interiors. Perfect for Halloween styling or year-round dark decor, it’s a must-have for witches, book lovers and admirers of mysterious aesthetics. Whether filled with moody blooms or displayed alone as a striking statement piece, it effortlessly casts a seasonal spell. Exclusively designed by Something Different.

Something Different Wholesale

T: 01792 940288

E: Customercare@somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

W: www.somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

Hong Kong’s Magnificent Seven

Earlier this year, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) marked the milestone 40th anniversary of the Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair, held at the Hong Kong Convention Centre, by unveiling seven different shows, all with synergies and cross-over buying opportunities.

Among the exhibitors was the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), which curated and showcased a UK pavilion featuring 11 British companies, to include Sue Ure Maison, whose Ambit collection won the show’s European Product Design Award.

PG&H was privileged to be among the HKTDC’s specially invited guests.

There was certainly a strong British vibe at the HKTDC’s Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair in April, with an eye-catching British pavilioncurated by the British Allied Trades Federation for the Department of Trade and Industry – showcasing 11 British companies: Art on Scarves, Bothy Threads, British Colour Standard, Freya Rose London, McLaggan+Co, Meg Hawkins, Pure Table Top, Skyline Chess, Sue Ure Maison, Talking Tables and Wrendale Designs.

“The HKTDC offered us an opportunity to return to the show this year to showcase brands whose designs

reflected a British theme, culture or heritage,” explained Taran Sahota, international services manager at the British Allied Trades Federation. “Since the pandemic, and without government funding, this was our first opportunity to expand the market and understand how it has bounced back post pandemic.”

She says that the show turned out to be a fantastic experience for members. “The Cultural Avenue within the Home InStyle section was an ideal setting for the brands we brought as it captured beautifully curated products from across the world. What stood out most was the quality of the buyers the show attracted. We had some excellent conversations with key decision-makers, including buyers from Burj Khalifa, the Shangri-La hotel group, and a major resort and casino developer in

Inset: The HKTDC’s April lifestyle exhibitions welcomed exhibitors and visitors from around the world.

Below: Taran Sahota, (left), international services manager British Allied Trades Federation, (BATF), and Natalie Edmead McKie, are shown on the BATF stand at the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair in April.

Bottom left: Among the design-led glassware from Artiseme.

HKTDC’s Seven Lifestyle Shows

The seven HKTDC lifestyle and licensing events, see below, attracted some 100,000 buyers from 131 countries and regions.

l Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair

l Home InStyle

l Fashion InStyle

Macau, among others. It was encouraging to see such strong interest and we left with an impressive list of contacts on behalf of the British companies we represented.”

Taran adds that feedback from both buyers and brands has been incredibly positive.

“We’re now looking at how we can build on this momentum and return in 2026 with an even broader mix of British brands under our umbrella. The showcase format really works. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to connect with serious buyers without the overhead of a full stand. Therefore, as long as we continue to have support from the HKTDC, we’re committed to growing our presence and helping more UK companies tap into this exciting market.”

The Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair marked its 40th anniversary with the theme Celebrating Four Decades of Wonder showcasing products that blended functionality with creative design, to include award-winning entries from the Hong Kong Smart Design Awards highlighting local design talent. Explained HKTDC deputy executive director Sophia Chong: “Hong Kong’s exports

of gifts, home products, fashion items and packaging solutions are increasingly targeting the mid-to-high-end market, transitioning from

l Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair

l DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong,

l Hong Kong International Licensing Show

l Asian Licensing Conference

Continued Sophia: “This year’s lifestyle fairs, held together in late April, offered buyers a one-stop, diverse sourcing experience, helping industry players explore cross-sector and cross-disciplinary business opportunities and creating synergies.”

design. The HKTDC remains committed to supporting exhibitors’ needs to help them upgrade and transform their businesses, while enhancing the overall quality of our exhibitions to provide a premier platform for cultural and creative design that can reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a leading regional creative hub.”

Fashion InStyle’s new highlighted zone, NEXT@Fashion InStyle, showcased advanced fashion materials from over 60 global suppliers – to include apparel and giftware made from mushroom leather and also water hyacinths. Meanwhile, Home In Style also expanded its Cultural and Creative Avenue, welcoming first-time exhibitors from the Czech Republic to include fragrance company Pigmentarium and design-led glassware company Artiseme, both from Prague.

Additionally, two packaging fairs showcased printing and packaging solutions balancing sustainability and smart design aligning with market trends. The 2025 lifestyle fairs and conferences attracted some 6,000 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions, including Mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as Australia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand from the Asia-Pacific region, and the UK, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and the United States from the European and North American regions.

In the gifts and premium market, respondents believed cultural gifts (17.6%), tech gifts (17.0%) and fashion accessories (16.9%) had the most growth potential.

Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Show 2026 takes place from 27-30 April at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Inset: NEXT@FASHION InStyle included displays from Thailand.

Below: Some of the UK contingent are shown at the 40th Anniversary party of the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair. They are: David Reuben, (third from left), founder of Diabolical Gifts; Retail100’s co-founders and directors Sara Allbright and Anna Berry; GiftandHome.net’s editor Sue Marks (centre); Meg and Coral Hawkins of Meg Hawkins, and Nelly Ng, gift sourcing at John Lewis.

Below: Sue Ure Maison’s Ambit collection won Best in Show at the 2025 European Product Design Awards, following its showcase on the BATF stand.

WINE STOPPERS

GIFTWISHES LTD are delighted to bring some Californian sunshine to the UK marketplace with fabulous ranges from Capabunga!

A range of unique yet FUNctional products:

★ Wine Stoppers: Seals the bottle which can be laid sideways without leakage. Stopper has a fun message making an ideal gift.

★ Glasswhere: Brightly coloured Wineglass identifiers carrying an amusing phrase.

★ Market Tote bags: Stylish double stitched heavy cotton with vegetarian leather bases and handles. The Tote bags are useful for many purposes.

WINE GLASS IDENTIFIERS MARKET TOTE BAGS CDU £103 carriage paid £4.95 RRP.

HERE’S TO YOU GLASSWARE

1: Steampunk Stallion

One of the larger models (47cm wide) to be introduced into the Steampunk range of 30+ items. Cast in poly resin, it is highly detailed with intricate cogs, gears and bolts. Finished in antique silver and embellished with copper and brass highlights. The top seller is the 15cm Tarantulas, while the collection also includes a variety of other designs, such as cats, dragons, birds, insects and even a 49cm high dinosaur.

JJ Vaillant

T: 0121 667 3629

E: info@jjvaillant.co.uk

W: www.jjvaillant.co.uk

2: A Special Gift For Any Occasion

What better gift for the one you love, than a heartfelt personalised gift - the personalised jewellery case from PMC is the perfect mix of stylish and functional. With a secure zip, removable divider, elasticated pouch and necklace hooks, it is a great way to keep all of those treasured jewellery pieces safe, on the go or at home.

A special message can also be added to create a unqiue gift that is made just for them. Available in a wide range of new designs. Visit PMC’s website to see the full range of personalised gifts.

PMC

E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

W: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

3: The Tale of Peter Rabbit Animated Soft Toy

Enesco has unveiled the new The Tale of Peter Rabbit animated soft toy. The super cuddly plush brings Beatrix Potter's beloved character to life, combining the timeless charm of Peter Rabbit with engaging story telling. The animated soft toy recites the full 8-minute long story of The Tale of Peter Rabbit along with enchanting sound effects to create an immersive storytelling experience. Complete with batteries and presented in an attractive gift box.

Enesco

T: 01228 404022

E: uksales@enesco.co.uk

W: www.enesco.co.uk

4: Pen Pals

Introducing Puckator’s fun and quirky new addition: the Clicker Pens. Featuring playful cat designs, the pens bring a whimsical touch to any desk or pencil case. Simply pull the cat’s tongue and watch as the pen’s tip pops out. The pens are not just for kids, but also appeal to adults who enjoy a little personality in their stationery. With their charming design and practical use, the Clicker Pens are perfect for adding a touch of character to any workspace or retail display.

Puckator

T: 0800 011 6969

E: customerservices@puckator.co.uk

W: www.puckator.co.uk

Products New

5: New Good Luck Bookmark

The top seller in Wild Things’ popular Crystal Dream suncatcher range is the elephant, and it is now available as part of the bookmark collection. A luxurious deep blue sparkly background framed by gold metallics create a lapis lazuli background for the colourful floral motifs. Floor or counter displays to suit.

Wild Things Gifts

T: 01392 211268

E: sales@wildthingsgifts.com

W: www. wildthingsgifts.com

1: Moomin Range

For fans of beloved characters, Puckator’s Moomin range has been refreshed for the summer season with bright and cheerful new designs. The Moomin collection features compact mirrors, lip balms and nail files, all designed with a minimalist yet vibrant aesthetic. The range brings a burst of colour to everyday beauty routines and is sure to be a hit with both long-time Moomin fans and those discovering the characters for the first time.

Puckator

T: 0800 011 6969

E: customerservices@puckator.co.uk

W: www.puckator.co.uk

2: Fabulous Floral Suncatchers

Birth month flower suncatchers have been extended and rebranded as Fabulous Floral Suncatchers. Beautiful designs, stained glass effect colours, embellished with top quality crystals from Austria and Bohemia. The upgraded packaging now features a folding card with room inside for a message. In addition to the sunflower, new designs also include snowdrops, violets, bluebells and forget me nots. Customers can still stick to the birth month range if they wish, and a suitable flower is provided.

Wild Things Gifts

T: 01392 211268

E: sales@wildthingsgifts.com

W: www. wildthingsgifts.com

3: Mr. Men Little Miss From Rainbow Designs

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now 3 5 4

Rainbow Designs

T: 01329 227300

E: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk

W: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

4: Cheers!

Arriving this summer is the new fun and vibrant Mr. Men Little Miss range. A treasured British brand for over 50 years, the characters, with their distinct personalities, have been adored by generations of families. Rainbow Designs’ colourful new range includes an adorable collection of large cuddly cushions, collectable soft toys and plush keychains, starring favourites Mr. Tickle, Mr. Happy, Mr. Bump and Mr. Strong, alongside Little Miss Hug, Little Miss Sunshine, Little Miss Princess and Little Miss Chatterbox.

The new Giftwishes’ CapaBungas are fun yet functional wine stoppers, with an RRP of just £4.95 or the CDU (48 stoppers) is just £103 carriage paid. They make an ideal impromptu gift, Secret Santa or stocking filler. And if you are looking to raise a glass take a look at the ‘Here’s To You’ glassware range.

Giftwishes T: 020 8998 1781

E: frank@gaeltag.com

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Hall M, Stand A48

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Hall M, Stand A48

Giftwishes T: 020 8998 1781

E: frank@gaeltag.com

The perfect gift for busy people

The Mepal Vita drinking bottle with its elegant design can be used with both still and carbonated drinks, is completely leak-proof and available in three sizes. The Mepal Vita Bento lunch bowl defines a new generation of eating on the go. With its unique 100% leakproof twist lid and five separate compartments you can enjoy a different lunch every day – hot or cold.

The Lunchpot Ellipse is the perfect companion for snacks and joghurt on the go. The two compartments keep the joghurt separate from granola or fruits until it is time to eat. Leakproof in your bag and easy to clean. Available in 6 fresh colors and perfect to fit everyone’s (eating) style.

Mepal has been producing smart products to store and take along food and drinks in, since 1950. Over 80% of our production takes place in The Netherlands and these products are being assembled in various social workplaces. Mepal products are built to last a lifetime, due to their high quality materials and the availability of spare parts.

Products New

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

1: The Perfect Gift

Who’s that hiding inside the mug? Reveal a surprise character with every sip. The cute and quirky mugs bring a little fun to your wholesale kitchenware collection and are perfect for animal lovers and collectors.

Sass & Belle

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand A-A26

T: +44 (0)207 346 0100

E: info@sassandbelle.com

W: www.sassandbelletrade.co.uk

2: Guess How Much I Love You

Rainbow’s popular collection of adorable Guess How Much I Love You soft toys and gifts make the perfect present for any special occasion. New additions to the bestselling range include a heartshaped Comforter, Nutbrown Hare Soft Toy with Silicone Teether and a fun-packed Activity Cube, alongside the super soft and cute Nutbrown Hare Soft Toy and Milestone Cards and Soft Toy and Muslin Gift Sets. The heart-felt gifts make a cute way to express just how much you love them.

Rainbow Designs

T: 01329 227300

E: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk

W: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

3: The Essence Of English Garden

Captured In Glass

Inspired by the delicate charm of a classic English garden, the new ‘My Sweetpea’ collection for 2025 embodies the gentle beauty of the beloved flower. Each piece of high-quality, mouth-blown glass is meticulously hand-decorated bringing the graceful forms and soft colours of the sweet pea to life. Contact Nobile Glassware to discover the stand out collection for your new seasonal range.

Nobile Glassware

T: 0118 973 2033

E: info@nobileglassware.co.uk

W: www.nobileglassware.co.uk

4: Beau & Elliot Carnaby Collection

The boutique British brand inspired by all things charmingly chic and beguilingly beautifulintroducing ‘Carnaby’ from Beau & Elliot, with three modern print designs and feature embossing, brought to life across a range of well thought out gifts for the home, kitchen, lunch-on-the-go, stationery and travel accessories.

Navigate

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-D104

T: 01279 653249

E: sales@navigate.ltd.uk

W: www.navigate.ltd.uk

W: www.beauandelliot.com

2

4

3

5

5: Sentiment Heart Collection

In a world of fleeting messages, offer a gift with history and heart. Inspired by the glassblower's tradition of giving personal, handcrafted tokens for special occasions, each art piece is designed to be a meaningful gesture. With a stunning variety of reflective colours that catch the light, they serve as a beautiful and lasting way to say ‘thank you’ or celebrate a loved one, while also enhancing the beauty of their home. Individual heart stand shown are available to purchase.

Nobile Glassware

T: 0118 973 2033

E: info@nobileglassware.co.uk

W: www.nobileglassware.co.uk

JENNIFER BRAMPTON, BUYER, YARNTON HOME & GARDEN

An independent garden centre acquired by Blue Diamond Group earlier this year.

Decorative Home

Accessories

Fragranced Giftware

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Indra Importer: textiles, rugs etc

Grand Illusions: serveware

Lords Fragrance House;

Aery: across the board

Ohh Deer

Noi

Paper Mirchi

Ricorumi: crochet sets with books

These beautiful, affordable soft furnishings from North India are strong sellers for us.

Colourful and design-led, with a young vibe.

A local supplier. The owner is a scent blender and customers love her fragrances.

Good packaging that’s very gift-led. We have leant into the themes, especially wellbeing.

Both the core range and pop-up cards sell very well.

Fun, feminine giftwrap.

Beautiful, hand-blocked, hand-crafted paper.

These products tap into the trend for people wanting to create their own gifts.

SOPHIE EDWARDS, OWNER, NOT JUST A GIFT AT NARBOROUGH HALL, NARBOROUGH

A destination gift store located in a 425 year old building on the edge of a village.

CATEGORY SUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Fragranced Giftware

Jewellery

Fashion & Fashion

Accessories

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Freckleface: pick ’n’ mix wax melts;

Serenity Vivid: across the board

PoM: across the board

Joma: A Little bracelets

Alice Wheeler: bags;

Laura Darrington Design

Glick

SIL: glassware

Widdop & Co: occasions giftware

People love the tactile element of seeing, touching, feeling and smelling the melts.

Great fragrances and fabulous packaging.

The bracelets are easy pick-up gifts and come in lovely packaging.

This range is still going strong for us.

Fabulous, on trend colours.

Bright, beautiful designs.

A consistently good seller.

Summery glassware featuring oranges, lemons and strawberries.

The new Wild Flowers wedding range is a real hit with customers.

Right: Among the wellbeing candles from Aery.

Above: An Alice Wheeler cross body bag.

Top: ‘A Little’ 21st Birthday bracelet from Joma.

Below: Ricorumi puppy crochet kit.

LIZ KILLICK AND CLARE WHITE, CO-OWNERS OF CALLADOODLES, CARSHALTON

An established gift and card shop on a Surrey high street.

CATEGORYSUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Fragranced Giftware

Jewellery

Fashion & Fashion Accessories

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Agnes+Cat: bath salts;

Wild Olive: bath bombs

The Country Candle Company

Ninaouity: across the board;

Bumble & Bees

Zelly: scarves

Jess & Lou: gloves

The Art File

Studio Boketto

Beautiful packaging and lovely fragrances.

Very affordable tiny gifts that people buy for their mums, teachers etc.

Classic products that are good for repeat custom. Everybody loves them.

Very pretty, very saleable. Suitable for all age ranges. The jewellery is unique, very different.

Again, very unique. The jewellery is made of clay with lots of detail.

They co-ordinate their colours across their hats and scarves. Easy to buy.

Gloves include fingerless which are very popular. They also do a jewellery range, plus a unisex range of socks.

They are great every which way!

We can’t keep their breakfast paper on the shelves.

Their plastic bibs are fantastic, and they also do a popular Highland cow range. Good for accessories as well.

A

Ziggle: across the board Decorative Home

large gift and card shop on a high street.

CATEGORY SUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Greeting

Other Hot Hits

La de da Living: pebble pictures;

Straits Trading: SS25 crackled glass collection

Best Kept Secrets: Just Because candle tins;

DM Brands: My Flame;

DX: gold and silver mix;

Life Charms: Just Because

Alice Wheeler: across the board;

David Jones: bags and purses

The Great British Card Company

Glick

Rosie Made A Thing: coasters;

Jellycat: across the board

An absolute winner! The quality, design and sentiment work perfectly together.

A beautiful range of vases, candle holders and light-up globes.

The tins can also be personalised. Ours say: ‘Queen of Carlisle’.

SONYA HAANDRIKMAN SIBBALD, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CELEBRATIONS, CARLISLE

Pastel colours with a brief message or saying. The coupe and wine shaped candles are particularly good.

These are a good price, and also come with a nice little pouch and gift bag.

This is the bread and butter of the collection, but the new Flower Box range makes a statement for that higher price point.

A super-stylish and practical range. Sunglasses, manicure sets, beauty/make-up sets and train cases are fab!

Lovely colourways that are on trend, good quality and at a fair price.

Wildflower Press from Paper House features clean, crisp and modern designs - a current favourite with customers.

The Stephanie Dyment range is beautifully designed and appeals to our customer base.

Having started off with a coaster display at the till we now have a 4ft display of gifts and cards!

Wish we could get product to fulfil the demand!

Right: Agnes+Cat lavender oil bath salts.

Right: A colourful scarf from Zelly.

Right: A humorous coaster from Rosie Made A Thing.

T: 01274 655980

E: sales@glick.co.uk  W: www.glick.co.uk

T: 01242 250653

E: info@ladedatrade.com

www.ladedatrade.com

www.agnesandcat.org

WELCOME...

. . . to Progressive Gifts & Home’s special July issue Guide

To Home Fragrance/Bath & Body. This fascinating publication will give you an insight into what’s trending for the second half of the year in these two key product sectors that continue to go from strength to strength.

Starting with home fragrance, the biggest trend this Autumn/Winter is for cosiness, with ambient amber vessels creating a welcoming warmth during the winter months. For the most part, fragrances are typically seasonal and traditional, scenting homes across Autumn and in the lead up to the festive season.

FYG is excited to launch the company’s first Christmas Edit, with founder and owner Demi Pendakis looking forward to showcasing the collection at this month’s Home & Gift in Harrogate. Turn to pages 98-99 to discover what else is new from FYG for the coming season, and what’s in the pipeline. Vessels meanwhile, are increasingly design-led, created not only with home interiors in mind but also, to be re-used and re-purposed. If you’ll forgive a little paraphrasing here, nowadays, a candle holder or diffuser vessel can be used for life, not just for Christmas. Think Paddywax’s A Dopo, winner of the Gift of the Year’s Best Home Fragrance category. (See news on page 85).

On the bath and body front, companies are raising the bar when it comes to beauty, self-care and pampering products, especially when they are linked to emotional wellbeing. Gift companies such as Candlelight and Joe Davies have recently launched debut collections, with FYG also unveiling a bath and body range to the trade for the first time. Wash bags too, are on the up. Turn to pages 101-103 to discover what else is trending.

Elsewhere in this issue, gift retailers reveal their best sellers across both home fragrance and bath and body, highlighting the brands and the fragrances that are making the tills ring. Turn to pages 106-107.

But first, turn to pages 85-87 for an update on all the latest industry news.

Enjoy reading! 85-87

Sue Marks Editor

Left: Best Kept Secrets’ Just Because collection was highly commended at the GOTY awards.

Below right: GOTY award winning Paddywax A Dopo range from Designworks Collective.

Right: Designworks Collective’s James Mountfield (second left) and Gavin Jones (second right) received their GOTY trophy from PG&H’s Ali Farrell (right). On the left is compere and comedian George Zacharapoulos.

Below: David Brown, ceo of The Fragrance House, is shown at last year’s Harrogate Home & Gift.

Expansion Drives New Location

Best Kept Secrets – whose Just Because candle collection was highly commended in the Affordable Gifts category at the 2025 Gift of the Yearhas moved into larger premises in Morpeth, Northumberland.

“The strategic move allows Best Kept Secrets to expand its manufacturing capabilities and operate under one roof, enabling increased production efficiency and continued focus on hand-crafted quality,” explains managing director Vanessa Curry.

On The Move

Since being acquired by new owners The Fragrance House, Heyland & Whittle Soap & Herbal Merchants is looking to make a substantial investment in meeting the growing demand for the company’s soaps, bath bombs, hand washes and lotions, along with other bath and body products.

“We have been fortunate to acquire a brand new build location three times bigger than our existing site and will be investing in new production equipment,” confirms The Fragrance House’s ceo David Brown. “We are looking to quadruple the output to meet demand without losing any of the outstanding quality and long tradition of excellence for which Heyland & Whittle were known.” l Meanwhile, following a year of acquisitions and new brands, Potters Crouch Ltd has now formally changed its name to The Fragrance House Ltd.

Indury news

Sweet Smell Of Success

Explains David: “As we have expanded and added new brands to our group, there was the potential for confusion among our customers. Nothing will change with our brands - Potters Crouch Candles; McKelvie Candles; The Wellness Range; Bettyhula; Waxkind; Fragrant Life and Scentiments - all coming under the umbrella of The Fragrance House.”

Paddywax’s A Dopo from Designworks Collective won the Gift of the Year’s Best Home Fragrance category in May. The company’s sales director, James Mountfield, collected the award, together with Gavin Jones, which was presented by Ali Farrell, advertisement manager, Progressive Gifts & Home, category sponsor, at The Gift Awards, held at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Finalists in the category were: The Contemporary Kiln Collection from Zesty Lemons London; Funny Smells Fragrance Sticks from Go La La; The Signature Home Fragrance Collection from Meg Hawkins; Whimsical Botanical Cast Fragrance Diffusers from The Foxglove Tree and William Morris At Home Beautiful Sleep Bedside Edit from Heathcote & Ivory.

Commenting on the category, The Giftware Association’s PR and marketing manager, Chris Workman, said: “This year’s home fragrance category entrants really impressed me, in particular, the design of the vessels, containers and packaging, as well as the fragrances of course.”

Artisan home fragrance brand Henry & Co has appointed , formerly retail director, as managing , part of a wider strategic restructure designed to fuel the company’s wholesale growth and brand evolution following its successful rebrand earlier this year. The company’s founder, Mark Rees, will step away from the day-to-day running of the business to take on a more

Spanish luxury brand Cereria Mollá 1899 is strengthening its presence in the UK with a key appointment to Denise Hall, who has extensive experience in premium retail and the home fragrance sector, has joined the team as UK sales manager She brings deep knowledge of the UK market and a strong network of retail relationships. Strengthening the company’s service to the independent sector, Wax Lyrical recently recruited two new field-based business development executives: , who looks after the South of England, and Kirsty McKim, who looks after the North of England and Scotland.

Right: Sharon Green. Far right: Denise Hall.

Below: Emily David. Below: Kirsty McKim.

Wizard News

Mad Beauty has confirmed a long-term licensing agreement with Warner Bros to create, develop and distribute a Harry Potter beauty gifting collection. From bath elixirs and body care basics to beauty masks and lip balms, the officially licenced Warner Bros collection is due to be released in Autumn 2025 and will include a line-up of beauty essentials and accessories, inspired by Harry Potter and the Wizarding World.

New Home Fragrance Range From Nkuku

Interiors and lifestyle brand Nkuku will be launching its first home fragrance collection this September. It features five curated scent stories in candles and diffusers: Sea Salt & Moss, Cedarwood & Fig and Cardamom & Amber in the brand’s signature collection, with Juniper & Fir and Mandarin & Clove aimed at festive home scenting and Christmas gifting. In keeping with the brand’s ethos, each fragrance is presented in an organically shaped vessel made from hand-blown recycled glass in India, designed to be repurposed and reused as tealight holders or vases.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Indury news

Freckleface Makes The FEBE Growth 100 List

Co-founder Becomes The Youngest FEBE Member

Home fragrance company Freckleface, founded in 2017 by Tara Carlile-Swift and her son Noah, then 14, has earned a placing on the prestigious FEBE Growth 100 list with a 40 % compound annual growth rate (CAGR). Now aged 21, Noah also holds the distinction of being its youngest member.

Now in its fourth year, the ranking celebrates the people building the fastest-growing British businesses where founders remain at the helm.

l Myrrh will be featured in The Fragrance Shop’s Advent Calendar this year.

l Talking Tables will be launching Dine in Colour premium collection of dinner candles in 12 colours. Hand dipped in Vietnam, they come in stackable CDUs made from recycled paper.

l Illuminate Candles has unveiled ‘Candle Seven – Tomato Vine’ Handcrafted in Britain, the new fragrance has taken over a year in development.

Company, Adhok and Jasper & Co will be among the new-to show exhibitors at Autumn Fair, which takes place at the NEC from 7-10 September 2025.

Over the past eight years, Tara and Noah have grown Freckleface organically to include four Freckleface high-street stores in York, Lincoln, Petergate and Stamford, with a presence in over 900 garden centres and gift shops nationwide. With strong year-on-year growth, the brand continues to expand to include successful collaborations with the RHS, Laura Ashley and, most recently, Historic Royal Palaces.

“We are just a mum and son with a vision and a passion to bring artisan products to our high streets and, with our amazing team, we are seeing this dream become a reality,” comments Tara. “We are proud to still hold true to the same values we established on the kitchen table from day one, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for Freckleface.”

Herdy Launches A Home CollectionFragrance

Building on the enthusiastic response to its limited edition Ewe by Herdy candle last year, a full fragrance range will be launching at Harrogate Home & Gift this July. The range includes a handpoured soy candle, room diffuser and wax melt burner, each housed in a re-fillable, reusable ceramic vessel echoing Herdy’s aesthetic of contemporary design with a playful twist.

“With its strong gifting appeal and storytelling, the collection offers highquality, handmade fragrance products with instant appeal and emotional resonance,” says the company’s social media & comms manager, Sally Proctor. At the core of the collection is Herdy’s signature scent, Ewe, evoking memories of the Lake District.

Inset: Tara and Noah Carlile-Swift, cofounders of Freckleface Home Fragrance.

Above: Mad Beauty’s Harry Potter invitation.

home fragrance collection.

Right: A new home fragrance range from Herdy.

Above: Dine In Colour is a new Autumn launch from Talking Tables.

Left: The Tipsy Candle Company will be new to Autumn Fair.

Below: ‘Candle Seven –Tomato Vine’ from Illuminate.

For over 40 years we’ve used the extensive knowledge of our in-house experts to design, develop and manufacture candles, reed diffusers and more from our home in Cumbria. We’ve been busy behind-the-scenes improving our factory and developing new home fragrance collections for 2025, ready to fill shelves and homes in the UK and beyond.

Inspired by the latest trends across fragrance and interiors, our products set the scene for moments to wax lyrical about.

Fresh scents that make fragrant spaces, from our home to yours

Reach out to our Customer Service team today and explore our new collections and best-sellers online at: www.waxlyricaltrade.com Customer Service Tel: 01229 461 111 info@wax-lyrical.com

Images from top: Homegrown Lavender, Homegrown Tomato Leaf, Made in England Sunlit Apricot, Colony Sweet Macarons, Colony Strawberry Surprise

Colony Herb Garden

New for Autumn/Winter 2025

Ready to wrap your home in warmth and comfort as the days grow shorter and the nights more inviting – and inspired by autumn’s rich colour palette and comforting aromas – this new home fragrance collection features both best-selling classics and exciting new additions, perfect for the cosy season.

Four comforting fragrances are available in: 35 hr Candle Tin, 200ml Cube Reed Diffuser and Scented Tealights

Find your new Festive Favourites – Christmas Candles, Reed Diffusers, Wax Melts and more

Christmas Village

Count down to the big day with our Christmas Village collection. With 4 best-selling festive fragrances to choose from and a variety of products, there’s something for every home and budget this Christmas.

• 42hr Boxed Candle

• 35hr Candle Tin

• 100ml Reed Diffuser

• Wax Melts

branded

• Tealight Gift Set

• Multiwick Candle

• Wax Melt Burner

Winter Warmer Boxed Candle

Frozen Lake Reed Diffuser Gold & Myrrh Candle Tin

Festive Fir Wax Melts

FSDU and Wax Melt CDU available

SCENTS OF THE SEASON

With candles, diffusers and wax melts ready to give homes a cosy, autumnal/festive ambience over the coming months, Guide to Home Fragrance/Bath & Body sniffed around for some of the newest launches.

With Autumn/Winter all about warmth, cosiness and cuddling up, there’s a big trend to bring that hygge feeling into the home through fragrance this year.

“Amber glass really comes to the fore for Autumn/Winter with our new frosted glasses for Christmas also very popular,” says Demi Pendakis, owner and founder of FYG. “Fragrance evokes so many memories, and when coupled with an ambient glass it makes the fragrance more powerful still,” he states.

“We’re taking our customers into Autumn with a focused edit of our most loved fragrances – warming, fresh and indulgent,”

The line-up centres around scents that evoke a sense of warmth during the darker months, with fragrances including Sandalwood and Black Pepper; Eucalyptus and Peppermint; Winter Nights and Royal Nights, the latter a collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces.

Premium brand Cereria Mollá 1899 has launched a debut curated, exclusive Christmas collection featuring luxury candle gifts wrapped in seasonal gift packaging. Comments Santiago Molla, ceo at Cereria

Inset: Amber glass from FYG.

Right: A Christmas candle from Freckleface. Below: Cereria Mollá’s new Home Fragrance Cracker.

Mollá. "‘Feliz Navidad’ is more than a greeting. It’s a spirit of warmth, family and celebration, and embodies the heart of this collection.”

The Cereria Mollá Home Fragrance Cracker features the company’s new Wax Melt Tin and a Cereria Mollá signature candle, while the Cereria Mollá Festive Gift Set includes two giftable Cereria Mollá candles encased in the brand’s signature gift packaging, with two new Spanish-inspired, festive fragrances: Spiced Valencian Orange and Andalusian Nutmeg & Ginger.

In addition, the company has launched a limited edition Oud & Leather fragrance which joins Cereria Mollá’s collection of luxury candles and diffusers.

“As with previous seasons, fragrancing remains an important element in our Homes & Gifts Autumn/Winter ’25 range,” says Mark Jones, commercial director of Gisela Graham. “With a focus on scented candles and diffusers, we’re emphasising the mood of the season with a selection of spicy scented boxed candle pots, each with a burn time of 40 hours. They include our Woodland Scented Boxed Candle Pot (amber wood & honey) and Pumpkin Spice Scented Candle Pot (spiced pumpkin and patchouli). Meanwhile, diffusers for the season include one of our favourites, the Dandelion Clocks diffuser, with a scent of Chamomile & Vetiver, available in 100ml. As winter arrives, we’ll add Christmas scents to the collections including our new Nostalgia Santa/Tree Boxed Candle Pot (Christmas Pudding scented) and Holly Scented Boxed Candle Pot (cinnamon),” highlights Mark.

(amber and oud), and Cashmere Comforts (vanilla and soft musk), with plans to introduce some as single wax melts later in the year.

The company’s Christmas Fragrance Collection meanwhile, has been designed to evoke the magic of the season, says the company, bringing a specific seasonal story to life.

Fragrances include Christmas Joy, (cranberry, apple and musk); Festive Cheer, (rhubarb, cinnamon and apple); Winter Wonderland, (apple, sandalwood and vanilla) and Christmas Wishes (lemon, orange and cinnamon).

Reflecting shorter days and longer nights, Wax Lyrical recently launched the Cosy Season, with seasonal fragrances featuring Pumpkin Spice, Autumn Rose, Smoked Vanilla and Winter Apple, with interior-led autumnal hues that complement the scents. In addition, to celebrate the festive season, the company’s Christmas Village collection offers Winter Warmer (cinnamon and clove), Festive Fir (freshly cut evergreen woods), Frozen Lake (a snowy winter landscape) and Gold & Myrrh (festive). Fragrance formats include a tealight advent set and a multiwick candle.

At Henry & Co, creative director, Jo Stubbs, is continuing to track seasonal fragrance trends, with Spiced Fruits (fig, cardamom and clove), Smoky & Resinous Woods

As Joanne Cunliffe, brand development manager at Widdop & Co comments: “Home fragrance is no longer just a finishing touch. These days, it’s right up there with lighting and accessories as part of how we style and curate our spaces, with The London Wax Company’s latest collection showing how home fragrance is becoming more thoughtful, stylish and personal. Each scent in the new range - Dream & Cocoon, Enjoy the Silence and Essence of Time - is about making moments in the busy day-to-day of how we’re living right now, making time to unwind, slowing things down, or just creating a bit of cosiness.”

Adds Joanne: “The glass vessels, in rich deep tones with metallic accents, are as much a part of the experience as the

scents. We’re seeing moody hues as a key packaging trend into 2025, and there’s a real move toward premium, elegant design that feels sophisticated but remains understated. They’ve been designed to be both seen and reused.”

With such an abundance of seasonal product, gift retailers are sure to be spoilt for choice.

Trending For Autumn

Candlelight will be continuing its popular Fruits and Florals home fragrance range for Autumn 2025 with a seasonal collection that features an array of autumn-inspired scents - from Pumpkin & Maple to Spiced Apple - available as candles, reed diffusers, wax melts and tealights. “This cosy collection offers something for every fragrance lover, adding an autumnal seasonal touch to the home,” says head of sales Kate Winch.

Adds Kate: “As for home fragrance trends, the bigger the better! 1000, 2000, 5000 ml

Inset: Gisela Graham’s Pumpkin Spice Scented Candle Pot fragranced with pumpkin and patchouli.

Below: A red glass Fruits & Floral autumnal candle from Candlelight.

Left: The London Wax Company’s Essence of Time from Widdop & Co. Below: Cosy Season from Wax Lyrical. Bottom: Henry & Co’s Christmas fragrances.

Fm U t YU. Grown, blended, and hand-finished by experts. Plant-based. Cruelty-free. Made in Britain. Sustainable products your customers will come back for. our

the Fragrance House Tel: 01462 414741 Email: enquiries@fhld.co.uk Web: fhld.co.uk

to the top on who can bring out the largest vessel! These can last up to a year and are a great statement piece and a popular choice for Autumn.”

Best Kept Secrets meanwhile, is building on the success of its Just Because Three Lites range with Just Because Duos showcasing eight different titles.

“They feature two scented candle tins with two different co-ordinated sayings and a matching gift bag for under £10,” highlights Vanessa.

“Affordable yet meaningful home fragrance products are more important than ever,” she adds. “Consumers are being more careful with their spend, but they still want to celebrate friends, family and milestones. Therefore, quality gifting at accessible prices, with a touch of fun or elegance is what people are really connecting with.”

Also new for the second half of the year is a Mystical Tarot Card candle from Yankee Candle. “It’s a fruity, woody new fragrance that brings together notes of cherry leather, cinnamon bark and black liquorice to create a vision of good fortune in mystical orbits,” says Enesco’s trade marketing manager Aylish Ellwood.

At The Fragrance House, ceo David Brown says that Harrogate Home & Gift will see the introduction of Autumn/Winter colours to the company’s Wellness range, with Waxkind launching Halloween and winter fragrances.

“The past 12 months have seen no loss of enthusiasm for the healing and wellbeing fragrance category where we have seen our Wellness collection become our top selling brand, and the candle in glass the top seller within the range,” he states.

At Lesser & Pavey, director Jonny Greves says that there’s been a huge surge in demand for the company’s Desire home fragrance collection, from the smaller sized gift sets to the one and two litre vessels to infuse larger rooms. “The appeal and visual attractiveness of each range offers something uniquefrom the vessel that contains the fragrance or the candle to the shape and colouring of the reeds from nature. Our larger size diffusers reflect consumer demand for more elaborate, statement pieces that complement home décor.”

The company’s new range of Desire Aroma diffusers feature Oud and Pomegranate Noir, with new fragrances including Azure, Suave, Aventi, Coco, Liberty and Rouge. Packaging shows the item inside, the colouring, the style of glass container and the reeds.

Meg Hawkins meanwhile, has expanded the company’s home fragrance range. Four new

Beeswax Making A Comeback

As long-time champions of beeswax, Cotton & Grey’s co-founder, Claire Sowden, highlights that beeswax is making a strong comeback in the candle and wellness world for Autumn/Winter 2025.

“Valued for its clean, non-toxic burn and subtle honey scent, this natural wax is increasingly favoured by consumers,” she states. “Unlike some other waxes, beeswax emits negative ions that help to purify the air. It burns cleanly, with a beautiful bright flame enhancing its appeal in mindful and wellness products.”

The company has launched a new Signature range, a collection of Cotton & Grey’s Twenty Minute beeswax relaxation candle gift sets. “We have carefully curated 16 of our bestselling titles and reimagined them into four unique design themes, each offering a distinct aesthetic,” confirms Claire. “This thoughtful approach keeps the experience fresh and engaging, giving customers four new ways to enjoy the wellbeing candles and the titles they love to gift.”

The four new pattern ranges in the Signature collection are: Take Some Time; Abstract; Floral and Folk & Vintage, with Claire adding, “we have also released these pattern ranges in the popular Little Box of Collection to enable retailers to mix and match the titles across the two collections in a coherent display.”

launches – Rainforest, The Ocean, The Thistles and The Retreat - are steeped in story, style and sensory appeal with the new additions marking a bold new direction for the brand, aimed at a broader audience while staying true to Meg’s artistry and love of nature.

“Each fragrance is more than a scent, it’s an experience,” states Meg. “Staying true to the brand’s ethos, every product is designed to look beautiful, tell a story and evoke an emotional connection. The packaging and vessels reflect the narrative behind each fragrance, blending illustration with innovation.”

Clearly, nothing says Autumn/Winter more than fragrance.

Below: Cotton & Grey’s Little Box of Happiness in Floral.

Left: The Wellness range from The Fragrance House.

Left: One of eight Best Kept Secrets Just Because Duos. Below: Rainforest Hummingbird from Meg Hawkins.

Above: A woody new fragrance from Yankee Candle. Centre left: Desire reed diffusers from Lesser & Pavey.

Add botanical wax melt to infuse your surroundings

Create a focal point with a 1

Hang a ceramic diffuser and spritz with your favourite scent

Add ambiance with the soft glow of a candle

Share the gift of fragrance

COSY VIBES

Nutmeg|Ginger|Spice

Aromatic nutmeg and sparkling ginger are combined with warm woody notes of cedar and sandalwood for a sophisticated and luxurious fragrance.

Visit us at Harrogate Home & Gift Stand No. DP1-B05

020 8595 8878

stoneglowcandles.co.uk trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

1: The Christmas Edit – Candles

RRP £20.00

Celebrate the season with The Christmas Edit - three enchanting new fragrances wrapped in whimsical, evocative packaging. The limited edition scents are designed to capture the magic of the holidays, making them irresistible for festive gifting and seasonal displays. From cosy spice to frosted woods, each fragrance tells a story. Eye-catching and emotive, this trio is set to become a Christmas favourite.

FYG

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B32

T: 0208 914 7974

E: contact@fyghome.com

W: www.fyghome.com

2: Inis New Blend Candle

With a scent as uplifting as a sunny day by the sea, brighten your surroundings with the new sparkling Scented Candle from Inis. Made with a new blend of 80% soy wax, 20% sustainably sourced palm wax and a leadfree wick - for 36+ hours of energising fragrance.

Inis

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-C91

T: +3531 286 7125

E: hello@inis.com

W: www.inis.com

3: Scent Appeal

For the A/W season, Stoneglow is introducing three autumnal fragrances to its Modern Classics range. It has also added wax melt bars across the collection, with a selection of 15 fragrances to choose from. Looking ahead to the festive season, the brand has a new Christmas look featuring rich jewel tones and elegant gold accents. New products include crackers filled with wax melts, decorative hanging ceramic stars, packs of tealights and mini sprays.

Stoneglow

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B05

T: 020 8595 8878

E: trade@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

W: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

4:

Christmas Village

Celebrating the magic and sparkle of the festive season, the Christmas Village home fragrance collection features four enchanting fragrances, ready to bring the spirit of the holidays into every home this winter. From the charming tealight advent set which contains 24 scented tealights - perfect for counting down to the big day - to the elegant Winter Warmer multi-wick candle in luxurious white glass, there's something special for everyone.

Wax Lyrical

T: 01229 461 111

E: info@wax-lyrical.com

W: www.waxlyricaltrade.com

5: Freckleface X Historic Royal Palaces

Introducing the new collaboration with Freckleface and Historic Royal Palaces – a collection inspired by the timeless beauty and rich history of royal palace gardens through the eras. Handcrafted in the UK, the three scents (Royal Bouquet, Royal Nights and Palace Garden) have been meticulously crafted to reflect the atmosphere and character of the palaces. Influenced by opulent interiors and the magnificent palace gardens, every fragrance tells a story.

Freckleface

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B77

T: 01778 393699

E: hello@frecklefacehomefragrance.com

W: www.frecklefacehomefragrance.com

4

6: Waxkind

This season, Waxkind is ready to unveil four new limited edition scents designed to capture the essence of autumn and Christmas. For autumn, Pumpkin Spice offers a warm, nostalgic fragrance perfect for a cosy display. For Christmas, the company is introducing Mulled Wine, Winter Berries and Christmas Eve each designed to capture the festive season at its best. With a focus on premium quality, sustainability and strong sell-through, Waxkind offers luxury fragrance without the luxury price tag.

The Fragrance House

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A106

T: 01462 414741

E: enquiries@tfhltd.co.uk

W: www.tfhltd.co.uk

1: Beautiful Handmade Glass Reed Diffusers

HOT Guide to Home Fragrance Wha’s 3

Discover the bestselling collection of Handmade Glass Reed Diffusers, where scent meets sophisticated design. With over 60 unique options in a kaleidoscope of colours and textures, the ever-growing range is curated to perfectly complement any décor style. Each diffuser is a piece of mouth-blown art, beautifully gift-packaged and ready to be paired with a favourite fragrance. Offer your customers the ultimate finishing touch for their home.

Nobile Glassware

T: 0118 973 2033

E: info@nobileglassware.co.uk

W: www.nobileglassware.co.uk

2: A Festive Favourite Returns

Best Kept Secrets is bringing back the muchloved ‘Red One’ from its Seriously Scented Three Lites collection - a festive trio of scented tins featuring Mulled Cranberries & Orange, Sparkling Snowflake, and Warm Gingerbread. RRP £9.99. See it at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Best Kept Secrets

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand A-A16

T: 01670 512222 |

E: info@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

W: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

3:

Cosy Season

As the days grow shorter and the nights more inviting, the Cosy Season collection is ready to wrap your home in warmth and comfort. Inspired by autumn’s rich colour palette and comforting aromas, the new selection of candles and reed diffusers features both bestselling classics and new additions including Pumpkin Spice, Smoked Vanilla, Autumn Rose and Winter Apple.

Wax Lyrical

T: 01229 461 111

E: info@wax-lyrical.com

W: www.waxlyricaltrade.com

4:

Melt Away

A sensory delight, the Wax Melt Gift Box (RRP £7.50) features six highly fragranced melts that fill any room with warmth and charm. Elegantly boxed for gifting, the bestselling set combines long-lasting scent with beautiful presentation. Perfect for festive sales or everyday indulgence, it's a must-stock item for home fragrance lovers looking for premium quality at an affordable price point.

FYG

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B32

T: 0208 914 7974

E: contact@fyghome.com

W: www.fyghome.com

5: Feliz Navidad

Celebrate the magic of the season with Cereria Mollá 1899’s debut festive collection, inspired by the warmth and craftsmanship of Spanish traditions. The limited edition collection features two elegant gifting formats: a Home Fragrance Cracker (including a candle, 2 x wax melt tins and fragrance spray) and a Festive Gift Set (featuring two new 70g glass candles). Scents include the new Spiced Valencian Orange and Andalusian Nutmeg & Ginger. Handmade in Spain and thoughtfully curated for the holidays.

Cereria Mollá 1899

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand: Hall A-A21

T: (+34) 96 290 10 96

E: info@CM1899UK.com

W: www.cereriamolla.com

6: Homegrown

Building on the success of the Homegrown collection, which celebrates cherished scents from a well-tended garden, Wax Lyrical is introducing two new additions for 2025: Tomato Leaf and Lemon Basil. Tapping into the growing demand for nature-inspired, green-forward scents, the two new scents celebrate the vibrant aromas of fresh homegrown ingredients, marking a return to the collection's botanical roots.

Wax Lyrical T: 01229 461 111

E: info@wax-lyrical.com

W: www.waxlyricaltrade.comz

Award winning home fragrance brand, FYG, (pronounced fig), is continuing to go from strength to strength, with the company recently expanding into larger premises in Radlett, Hertfordshire.

The sales team has expanded too, plus, there are new launches – both home fragrance and bath and body – about to be unveiled at Harrogate Home & Gift.

But even that’s not all, as founder and owner Demi Pendakis told Guide To Home Fragrance/Bath & Body.

ON THE MOVE

Five years on from starting FYG at the beginning of the pandemic, founder and owner Demi Pendakis is feeling upbeat. “2025 has been a fantastic year,” he states. “At the end of June, we moved into new, much larger premises where there’s plenty of room for the company to grow.

We’ve seen lots of new customers come on board, to include leading garden centres and gift stores. We’ve also expanded the team of sales agents – appointing Rosie Trow in the South West, Carl Stirk in the North and Nicola and Richard Freeman to cover the South East.

We’ve launched a new bath and body collection for the trade, and also launched FYG’s first Christmas Edit. While pre-sale is happening through our agents - to include Steve Powell who covers garden centres - Harrogate Home & Gift will see the official, exclusive launch of everything that’s new from FYG for the second half of the year.”

Taking on the new premises – and a storage unit a few miles down the road - marks a big step for the company. “Over the past two years, I’ve tried to put the business on a fulfilment model which frees more of my time,” explains Demi. “However, as we’re growing so fast, there was a lot of control I needed over that, so I’ve brought it all in-house. Right from the start, all our products have been manufactured in-house with another recent appointment being a head of production. As for fragrances, which, personally, I am very invested in and have the final say on, I work closely with four fragrance houses, something I love doing, and also work closely with our designers on the packaging side, so we’re quite a team now and expanding.”

The new Christmas Edit – the first seasonal home fragrance collection launched by the company - celebrates three fragrances in the lead up to the festivities – Ice Skating in the Park, Under the Mistletoe and Night Before

Demi Pendakis: The Lowdown

l What was your original career plan? “To be a stockbroker/trader.”

l What did you do before you started FYG? “I did a degree in marketing then, over a 22 year period, I worked in a global fashion manufacturing business and also launched my own fashion company. I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart.”

l What was the best business advice you were given? “My dad taught me that everything is a sale, and also, that there has to be a reason why people want to work with you.”

l What’s your advice to upcoming entrepreneurs? “Do your research. Focus on whether you are going to do wholesale or online retail. You can’t do both effectively straightaway.”

l How do you start your day? “I don’t take a call, or answer an email, before 10.30am. Most mornings, I go to the gym and walk the dog before going to the office.”

Below: Demi Pendakis, founder and owner of FYG.

Inset: The colourful new packaging for the Back To Basics range. Shown is Peony & Blush Suede.

Christmas. “The luxury fragrances and their packaging are evocative and whimsical, everything that FYG stands for,” explains Demi.

Products, which are affordably priced, feature candles, diffusers, tin candles and wax melts. “The collection has been very well received and, consequently, we are hoping to bring out another signature collection next year.”

As for Back To Basics, FYG’s original brand, the collection has been given a facelift. “The new look packaging features beautiful colours, helping retailers to create eyecatching merchandising displays,” Demi explains. Additionally, another FYG brand, Botanicals, continues to reflect outdoor fragrances that stimulate the senses, with each candle box opening out into a flower shape, the inside printed with a floral design that’s been inspired by a literary English Gardenthink The Secret Garden, Pemberly and Manderley.

something FYG has been doing for a couple of years on the commercial front with washes and lotions for gyms, B&Bs and hotels –there’s a new range for the trade

It’s certainly unusual, with Demi explaining that when it comes to packaging – all of which is sustainable - it’s very much about being seen on the shelf. “You know an FYG product when you see it,” he comments. “It’s considered, it’s not OTT. For example, the colour pop you get with Back To Basics is brilliant. All our ranges have personality, right down to the label, and all sit beautifully together.”

As for the expansion into bath and body –

Fair and the range was very well received,” Demi highlights. Fragrances include Orchid Noir, Cedar & Jasmine and a Damson Plum Rose & Patchouli. “The fragrance hit you get is amazing,” he highlights. “Products are competitively priced in relation to

collection sits in

What does he believe gives FYG its authenticity of the brand, which is something our customers and end users

FYG is a mid-market home fragrance brand, launched in 2020, to recreate feelgood memories for users.

l The following year, the company’s first range, Back to Basics, won the Home Fragrance category at the Gift of the Year awards.

l In addition to candles, reed diffusers and wax melts, the FYG range also includes a new bath and body collection, which will be launching at Home & Gift this July.

l Further establishing his credentials in the gift industry, Demi has joined The Giftware Association’s National Committee, and is also on the advisory board of Hyve, organisers of Spring Fair and Autumn Fair.

have really bought into. Originally, I called the brand Find Your Glow, because figs were the first things I could smell after a bad bout of Covid in 2020. The acronym is FYG, pronounced fig, which, for me, says it all.”

He continues: “Also, being a luxury brand, consumers get a lot of bang for their buck. We’re not the cheapest, but people are often surprised at how amazing our fragrances are for the price.”

As for what’s in the pipeline for FYG, Demi has a long list of ambitions both for the short and the longer term. “When you become a recognised brand, people want to see what else you are bringing out. In terms of fragrance, we’re working on a new geranium and lavender fragrance. As for vessels, I’d like to look at ceramics next. I’d also like to introduce gift sets for 2026 to include wellbeing diffusers and an FYG travel range for people on the go. While we have gift sets in home fragrance I’d like to create bespoke bundles in the bath and body sector too.”

As for trade shows, Demi has plans to exhibit at the Atlanta show in January. “I’d love to break into the US market,” he highlights. “I’d also like to do online retail next year. Plus, as an entrepreneur, I have ambitions to take FYG in another direction entirely but, for now, that idea is still under wraps!”

Right: A debut bath and body collection will be unveiled at Home & Gift. Shown is Black Pomegranate bath salts. Below: Botanicals reflects nature and outdoor fragrances. Bottom: The Christmas Edit.

BODY BEAUTIFUL

As self-care, wellbeing and pampering continue to trend, Guide To Home Fragrance/Bath & Body discovers what’s driving sales in the fast paced, fast moving bath and body sector.

Wellness, pampering, self-care and skincare are just a few of the many words to describe an ongoing, gift-led product category that continues to go from strength to strength, with people looking to invest in choosing products with only the finest ingredients.

“Bronnley is a fusion of classic and modern from a heritage body care brand with a 140year history, made in the UK using the finest British botanicals. Active ingredients once reserved for skincare are now being harnessed to power up body products - it’s the skinification of body care,” states Lesley Aaronson, creative director, Bronnley.

is all about this. We are using skincare heroes niacinamide, vitamin C and yuzu extract which are known for their ability to add radiance and a glow.”

She continues: “Including these actives at efficacious levels has produced a finely tuned body care story with Lemon 5% Niacinamide Body Serum, Brightening Hand Balm, Lemon Hand Wash and Vitamin C Body Exfoliator, a daily body wash with the added benefit of exfoliation. Paired with the trend for functional fragrance, the citrus scent of the iconic Bronnley Lemon brings

an uplifting element,” she points out.

“Gourmand fragrances, those with edibleinspired notes, are trending across the beauty world,” states The Somerset Toiletry Co’s Zantore Buoy, associate director. “Once niche, these comforting scents are now mainstream, offering a blend of indulgence and emotional wellbeing. Coffee, in particular, brings warmth, nostalgia, and a boost of energy, making it ideal for self-care rituals. It isn’t just aromatic, it’s packed with skin-loving benefits. Antioxidants help fight signs of ageing, caffeine boosts circulation and natural exfoliants leave skin smooth and refreshed.”

“Our new collection for Bronnley Lemon

Explains Zantore, “Our Urban Café Collection taps into this trend with body scrubs, whipped creams and candles in café-inspired scents such as Caffè Mocha,

Inset: The Silk Road bath and body collection is new from Candlelight.

Bottom: The Somerset Toiletry Co’s Urban Coffee Collection.

Caramel Latté and Vanilla Bean. Inspired by our own Soap Bar Café, the collection transforms everyday routines into sensory experiences.”

At Wild Olive, (winner of the Gift of the Year’s Best Beauty, Bath & Spa Product category for its Mineral Bathing Infusions), founder Julie Holmes points out: “Trends are about linking bath and body care with mental health, with consumers looking for products that look after the skin and enhance mental wellness. Our crystal infusions, combine both.”

New Kids On The Block

More and more gift companies are expanding their ranges to include bath and body products. Among the new launches for the second half of the year is a brand new bath and body collection from Candlelight, which is manufactured in the UK and launching this Autumn, part of the company’s opulent The Silk Road Collection. There are two fragrances - Bukhara and Samarkand – with scents inspired by the rich heritage and sensory experiences of the historic trade route. Products include bath bombs; shower steamers; hand & body lotion; bubble bath; soap and bath salts.

Highlights Julie: “Our latest innovation is a range of Bath Sands. Inspired by a visit to Jordan, they feature Dead Sea salts and sand art, and bubble like crazy! We think that life is better with bubbles and our range of ‘bubble shots’ is unique, focusing on mood and sentiment. We’ll be launching it at Harrogate’s Home & Gift this month. Plus,

products that are sustainable and easily carried are very much the ‘go to’ choice for the Gen Z generation, with travel and the gym high on their list of priorities. Our shower pods are ideal for this, and continue to increase in popularity, with our Gym Buddy pod lasting for five showers.”

Ailsa Cunningham, business development director at The English Soap Company,

continues to grow, driven by a strong focus on selfcare, emotional wellbeing and thoughtful gifting. “While we sit within the category of utilitarian products, our offering is very much about gifting. Each product is designed to make people feel good and loved, turning everyday moments into something special.”

“Curated with gifting in mind, the collection is beautifully packaged at excellent price points, making it ideal for both the retail and gifting markets,” says Candlelight’s head of sales Kate Winch.

Looking ahead, phase two of the launch will see the addition of washbags and toiletry bags that have been designed to add further appeal and value.

The company’s Autumn/Winter collections have been designed to capture the comforting, feelgood essence of the season featuring soft, evocative scents. “The packaging plays a key role, with designs that are festive, elegant and ready to gift,” adds Ailsa.

At Toasted Crumpet, founder Jo Clarke says that shoppers are looking for thoughtful, design-led products that add small moments of pleasure to daily routines. “Nature remains a strong influence with customers drawn to products that feel fresh, calming and beautifully presented.

“Design plays a central role in shaping our collections for this sector. Our latest ranges, that we'll be showcasing at Harrogate Home & Gift, feature new illustrations inspired by seasonal themes, including cherry motifs,

Also launching a brand new health and wellbeing collection is Joe Davies. “It’s currently one of the biggest trends,” concurs managing director Paul Hooker. “It’s ideal for gifting as well as self-purchase, with the comprehensive co-ordinated collection including eye masks; gel filled eye soothers; shower caps; heatless curlers and much more besides, all of which make great stocking fillers, with handy CDUs for easy display.”

Inset: Wrendale Designs’ new cosmetic bag feature four different embroidered designs. Bottom left: Wild Olive’s award-winning Mineral Bathing Infusions feature Dead Sea salts, perfumed with oils and charged with natural crystals.

Inset: The Bronnley Lemon Brightening Body Care Collection from Heathcote & Ivory.

Inset: Himalayan bath salts from FYG. Left: A Christmas bauble hand moisturiser from Bettyhula.

in step with shifting customer tastes. Keeping designs current is as important as the product itself, ensuring that our bath and body lines continue to feel relevant and appealing,” states Jo.

new selling presentation making it easier for the retailer.”

Meanwhile, with relaxation in mind, Lesser & Pavey recently unveiled a new range of fragranced bath and body products, with packaged gifts sets including hand and lip care; soap and hand cream; bath fizzers; hand wash and cream; a bath and shower set with a foaming sponge, and a five piece pamper set with a complementary sponge.

Part of the range features William Morris illustrations, complemented by fragrances that include Willow Bough, Fresh Linen, Lemon and Pomegranate, Lodden Fresh Linen and Redoute Rose. Other items depict the fragrance in coloured packaging with transparent panels.

“For cosy nights in or self-therapy, our Himalayan bath salts across our Back to Basics collection have proved ever-popular, strongly requested for pre-Autumn buys,” says FYG’s owner and founder Demi Pendakis. “Coupled with our new hand creams, users can immerse themselves in the curated fragrances whenever they want to relax or need a pick me up.”

At The Fragrance House, there will be new products in the company’s Bettyhula range. “We will be introducing a new size of dry soap and non-talc dusting powder at Harrogate Home & Gift, as well as a Christmas bauble featuring an anti-bacterial hand moisturiser as a small gifting item,” says David Brown, ceo of The Fragrance House. Also part of The Fragrance House is the brand Heyland & Whittle. “Following the recent acquisition, we are looking to add an improved range of luxury hand lotion and hand wash to complement to soaps and bath bombs already produced,” confirms ceo David Brown. “While the Luxurious Lotions range isn’t new, it has been refreshed and upgraded in terms of product quality. Plus, the bath bombs will feature a

In The Bag

Since acquiring the Aromaworks London brand three years ago, Wax Lyrical confirms that the company has experienced significant growth driven by a rising consumer demand for more natural and wellnessfocused products. “As people continue to seek out cleaner and more mindful lifestyle choices, our commitment to using only 100% pure essential oils has really resonated with our customers,” says Wax Lyrical’s senior national account manager Gary Ponsford.

“By combining the therapeutic benefits of essential oils with natural formulations, our Aromaworks London collections offer a sensory experience that enhances both physical and emotional balance. We proudly manufacture a full range of home fragrance and personal care products onsite in Cumbria, all powered by the tenets of aromatherapy. From calming candles to revitalising bath oils, essential oil reed diffusers to linen sprays and more, each product supports a holistic approach to wellbeing within the home.”

Reflecting the importance of lovely products to wash in or put on the body, gift companies are bringing out bags to keep items together, especially when people are on the go.

At Wrendale Designs, founder and creative director Hannah Dale concurs that the bath and body sector is thriving as consumers embrace wellness, self-care and more natural products. “With a growing demand for clean ingredients and beautiful packaging, there’s a big focus on both function and experience,” she comments.

“For Autumn/Winter we’re introducing a new range of cosmetic bags for storing bath and body favourites at home or while travelling.”

Building on the success of the company’s recent floral block print washbag launch, Namaste has expanded the collection for Autumn/Winter. “We’re adding a vibrant mix of funky, bright prints that not only capture the spirit of the season but are also versatile enough to brighten up any time of year,” says junior buyer Emma Lightowler. “This expansion meets the growing demand for accessories that combine bold, eye-catching design with practical everyday use.”

For gift retailers looking to expand their self-care offer, there’s sure to be a strong focus on self-purchase as well as gifting in the run up to the festive season.

Inset: Toasted Crumpet’s Bows & Berries collection of soaps. Top left: Festive bath and body treats from The English Soap Company.

Left: Bath and body is a new category for Joe Davies.

Above: William Morris Fresh Linen from Lesser & Pavey. Inset: Bright, colourful washbags from Namaste.

New ranges launching

Come and see us at Home & Gift DP1 - A106

We are proud to be a quintessentially British Brand. At Heyland and Whittle, we create bath & body products using plant based, natural ingredients.

Supplying hundreds of independent retailers across the UK.

our brands

the Fragrance House Tel: 01462 414741 Email: enquiries@fhld.co.uk Web: fhld.co.uk

1: A Spa Touch To Everyday

Treat your customers to wellness with the 250g Himalayan Bath Salts (RRP £10). Naturally rich in minerals, the salts detoxify, soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. Ideal for gifting or self-care, each packet adds a luxurious spa touch to the everyday. Beautifully packaged and perfectly priced, they appeal to health-conscious shoppers seeking a calming ritual and natural beauty solution in one premium product.

FYG

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B32

T: 0208 914 7974

E: contact@fyghome.com

W:  www.fyghome.com

2: Heyland & Whittle

The Fragrance House is relaunching Heyland & Whittle with a fresh new look at Harrogate Home & Gift. Known for its handcrafted, cold process soaps and natural bath melt truffles, the company is evolving while retaining the same high quality of product within. The new design is clean and modern, giving a fresh feel to the much-loved products. Visitors to the show will be the first to see the new look and try the full range. This marks a new chapter for Heyland & Whittle, bringing new energy to the brand while staying true to tradition.

The Fragrance House

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A106

T: 01462 414741

E: enquiries@tfhltd.co.uk

W: www.tfhltd.co.uk

3: A Helping Hand

Luxury on the go! The nourishing 75ml Hand Creams (RRP £12) are enriched with skin-loving ingredients to soften, hydrate and protect. Fast-absorbing and nongreasy, they’re perfect for everyday use and ideal for gift sets or travel. With beautifully designed packaging and captivating scents, they offer yearround appeal. A premium yet practical beauty essential customers will reach for again and again.

FYG

Visit: Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-B32

T: 0208 914 7974

E: contact@fyghome.com

W:  www.fyghome.com

4:

Heathcote

& Ivory English Lavender

Discover the relaxing and nourishing collection of lavender scented bath and body gifts. Vegan blends with lavender oil, extracts of wild hops, argan oil, shea butter, vitamin E and glycerin leave skin feeling soft. Fragranced with English Lavender, rosemary and eucalyptus under a sunlit canopy of lilac, the gifts come with charming hand painted illustrations of lavender in terracotta pots and wicker baskets. Heathcote & Ivory

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5: Citrus And Floral Scented Shower Steamers

Following on from the success of the awardwinning Shower Steamers, Bramblewood has launched a new, smaller sized box. The Shower Steamers are handmade using the finest essential oils and decorated with an array of dried botanicals to transform an ordinary shower into a luxurious, spa-like experience through the power of aromatherapy.

Bramblewood Soap

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Discover which home fragrance and bath and body brands and formats are flying off the shelves for gift retailers.

FRAGRANCE CHART TOPPERS

With so much choice across the breadth of the home fragrance market, gift retailers have a wealth of strong brands to choose from, with Barkers Home in Northallerton’s Cook, Wine and Dine and gift and home buyer/manager Sharon Wake - whose remit also includes home fragrance - highlighting that the store’s best-selling brand is Stoneglow. “It’s definitely number one,” she states. “Price points are in the mid to high price bracket, but the fragrances really last, and our customers love them so feel it’s worth paying that bit more for.”

Continues Sharon: “Modern Classics is very popular, along with a recently launched new range, the Walled Garden, which comes in beautiful packaging. Customers know that they’re getting a quality product and vessels that will fit in well with their décor.”

Another best seller for Barkers Home is Marmalade of London. “The design is clean and simple with lovely fragrances that last. We also do well with Zesty Lemons, a brand which predominantly does candles but has a point of difference. Products are very giftable and come in beautiful packaging. Customers love the brand.”

For the past year, the store has also stocked Maison Berger fragrance lamps. “They’re not only high end and beautiful to look at but also purify the air,” points out Sharon.

“We stock several home fragrance brands including Classic Candle Company, which is our best-selling brand for candles, wax melts and, particularly, their reed diffuser refills,

more,” says Lesley Bancroft, owner of Buy the Light in Bury St Edmunds. “Customers are loving the fresh fruity fragrances, with current hot fragrances being Fresh Rhubarb, Lemon Lavender and Bergamot and Holy Basil,” she highlights.

“We also stock St Eval fragrant candle tins, tealights and reed diffusers. Their fragrance range is a bit different, being very natural, with inspiration derived from the countryside, botanicals and the seaside.

Above: Stoneglow’s Moroccan Rose & Bay from the Modern Classics collection.

Right: Classic Candle Company is among the best sellers for Buy the Light.

Below: Maybugs own brand Vanilla & Tonka Bean diffuser.

“Everyone's favourite is Bay & Rosemary, a top seller all year round in all the product styles, but Wild Rhubarb is also doing really well at the moment in the tins and tealights. Again, it's a fruity fresh fragrance.”

Lesley highlights that another brand that continually rings up sales for Buy the Light is Maison Berger’s perfume lamps. “The lamp was originally designed in 1898 with its prime function being to remove odours such as cooking smells, pet smells and cigarette smoke, rather than masking the odour. It adds fragrance into the room - a brilliant product which works superbly. At this time of year, our best-selling perfumes for the lamps are Ocean Breeze and Zest of Verbena, but we also have a new fragrance, Blue Seduction, which is proving very popular.”

In addition, Buy the Light also carries a very small maker's range of fragrance melts, Solas Home. “They are a natural coconut and rapeseed-based wax that look pretty as well as smelling divine. Very popular fragrances are The Florist, and Fresh Mint and Rhubarb.”

As for bath and body, the shop’s best-selling range is The English Soap Company's fragrant wrapped soap bars, both The Anniversary range and The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew range.

“The best seller all year round in the Kew range is Magnolia & Pear, but also very popular currently is Pineapple & Pink Lotus. In the Anniversary range the top seller is The Gardener’s Pink Grapefruit soap which is particularly useful at this time of year for self-use as well as for gifting. Customers love the soaps because of the appealing wraps, the strong fragrance and the fact that they last for months without going mushy,” points out Lesley.

working on it with them for over 12 months, and have selected four fragrances that include Wild Strawberry, Vanilla and Tonka Bean and Jasmine & Patchouli.”

Adds Greg: “In addition, Inis continues to be a best seller. For the last seven years we have continuously stocked it and customers keep returning because they love the fresh, clean, sea inspired scent. Each season we add in any new lines with the Seascapes scented sachets proving to be a winner.”

He says that sweet scents seem to be performing much better than citrus ones. “Things that smell good enough to eat seems to be the trend,” he points out. “Of course, traditional scents such as Lavender and Clean Laundry will always have a core following, but more unique aromas such as Cherry Blossom and Jasmine & Lime seem to be on the up and trending, particularly with a younger customer base.”

Marmalade of London, Lily Flame, Best Kept Secrets and Clyde Candles’ candles and wax melts.

“However, our top seller is definitely Inis,” states Caroline. “Our customers absolutely love this beautiful, refreshing fragrance and keep coming back for more!

“We have a standalone display of pretty much the full range and it sells really well and has done for a few years now. The beautiful fragrance is inspired by the ocean and is so refreshing. Our customers love it.”

“Across our four shops located in Bexhill on Sea, Eastbourne, Hailsham and Tunbridge Wells we stock Inis, Freckleface and Candlelight Products,” confirms Greg Rose, co-owner of Maybugs. “In addition, we’ve just launched our brand new Maybugs branded candle and diffuser range, created by Candlelight Products. We have been

Greg continues: “Within our body and bath ranges, Inis is, of course, at the core of what we do, and products such as their shower gel, hand cream and body lotion continue to fly out the door for us, particularly in the summer as customers look for a scent that brings the summer vibes. We have also done well with the new hand creams from Wrendale Designs, purchased by customers mainly as a gift. Their unique scents such as Jasmine & Violet and Sage & Bluebell come in beautifully designs tubes which our customers are loving.”

At gift shop Hugs & Kisses in Tettenhall, owner Caroline Ranwell stocks Inis,

Caroline adds that the store also sells a huge amount of candles and diffusers from Marmalade of London. “They’re beautifully packaged and make a really lovely gift. They look similar to a high end brand but without the price tag! Our best-selling fragrances are Tuscan Lime & Basil, Bergamot & Soft Rose, Pomegranate & Pear, Pink Fizz & Juniper and Pink Pepper & Plum.”

Also popular with Hugs & Kisses customers are Lily Flame candles. “They sell extremely well for us and, for many years, the best seller has been Fairy Dust. This pretty, super feminine fragrance is available in candles, diffusers, wax melts and a boxed room spray and makes a really lovely gift. Customers just keep coming back for more.

“Recently, we have also started to stock a range of lovely little wax melts from Clyde Candles,” she adds. “The scents are absolutely gorgeous and include a lot of oud type fragrances which do seem to be extremely popular at the moment.”

Right: A selection of fragrant wrapped soaps from The English Soap Company’s Anniversary range. Below right: Inis continues to be a top seller for gift retailers. Below: The Marmalade of London display at Hugs & Kisses.