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Retailer Reactions
The Popularity Stakes With the wealth of newness in abundance, retailers were spoilt for choice at the recent PG Live show that they were keen to rave about. Following on from last month’s Viewpoints, the good news keeps flowing as PG shares more buyers’ top picks that are now pepping up the product selection in their stores.
Above: Retailers enjoyed a feast for the eyes at PG Live, which was awash with thousands of new designs.
Adam De Wolff, director of The Indigo Tree, Streatham and Crystal Palace Top picks: “Emily Nash and Klara Hawkins stood out for us. Emily Nash’s cards were just delightful. We chose the Pattern Delight and the kids ranges from Klara Hawkins as we loved the fact that the cards popped out at us on the stand with their vibrant use of colour.” Showbiz: “We had a great time at PG Live. We placed several orders, but most exciting of all was to see everyone face to face again!” Above: The Indigo Tree’s (right-left) Adam, Harriet and Meg De Wolff with Klara Hawkins. Right: One of Emily Nash’s delightful card designs.
Greg Rose, co-owner of Maybugs, Eastbourne, Hailsham and Bexhill-on-Sea Top picks: “In Springboard, two companies really stood out for me. The first is Wild Lines, I love the beautiful illustrations with pops of colour and the second is The Comedy Card Company, just simply hilarious cards and so rude! In the main show area my top three picks would be Miranda B, for its beautiful foiled everyday designs; Soochichacha, for its quirky and humorous designs that stand out and Popsy & Plum, for its contemporary and funky designs, of which the new cactus one was my favourite.” Showbiz: “PG Live is one of the most important shows for us as we use it specifically to find new and upcoming publishers, and this year’s was the best ever! We placed 21 orders at the show, with 16 of these from the Springboard area with new suppliers. As always, the show continues to be one of our favourites, not just because of the density of high quality suppliers but also because it’s such a pleasurable experience to attend.” Above: Maybugs’ Greg Rose and colleague Joan Tippett at The Greats/Retas champagne drinks reception. Left: Greg loved the pops of colour on Wild Lines’ cards.
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PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE
Anne Barber, owner of In Heaven at Home, Market Harborough Top picks: “I found three new suppliers that stood out for me. I spent my Greats’ voucher with Real & Exciting Designs, spent my Retas’ Sunshine ticket with Susannah Bleasby and loved Sea Glass by Archie. I will also be following up with two other suppliers who caught my eye.” Showbiz: “I honestly thought the atmosphere and my whole day at PG Live was the best at any trade show I have ever been to in my career. I met up with 16 of my current suppliers and placed orders with them all and found three new suppliers. To me it just felt special and magical and buzzing - loved every moment. A very happy day. I’ve put the PG Live 2023 dates in my diary for next year already!!!” Top: In Heaven at Home’s Anne Barber (right) with Susannah Bleasby. Right: One of the many designs from Real & Exciting Designs’ Voilà range.