Progressive Gifts and Home February 2016

FEBRUARY 2016 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

VISIT US IN HALL 4 AT STAND E41

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www.dealers-uk.com We have a constantly changing assortment of over 8,000 items including decorative goods, old and new, recycled, vintage, upcycled and reproduction items of furniture, accessories, garden wares, architectural and unusual items It is well worth a visit to our 36,000 square feet warehouse and acres of outside show area or visit our website

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www.max-publishing.co.uk The home of market leading trade magazines

From baby to toddler to starting school

EXHIBITIONS

THE HOME OF MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax: 020 7607 6411 www.progressivegifts.co.uk www.thegreatsawards.co.uk Publishers

Jacqueline Brown, Warren Lomax and Ian Hyder

Design & Production Russell Sutton

Subscriptions enquiries: maxsubscriptions@marketingreinforcements.co.uk Tel: 020 8943 9541 ABC figure 6,788 July 1st 2010 - 30th June 2011 Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation.

This Month Like a lot of people in the gift and home industry, I hold up my hand to being a bit of a trade show junkie, and with Spring Fair around the corner, I, for one, can't wait to trawl the aisles this February. What's really inspiring me is that 2016 is a milestone year for the show.

It was the very first exhibition to open its doors exactly 40 years ago, in 1976, at the NEC in Birmingham, the UK's first, purpose-built exhibition venue that started out with five halls.

It was so historically important to the country, that it merited a visit from Her Majesty The Queen (who celebrates her own milestone 90th birthday this year), with Her Majesty The Queen Mother and Princess Diana following in her footsteps in subsequent years.

I've had the most tremendous fun talking to people who were at that very first exhibition. I've loved hearing their recollections and anecdotes, good and bad, and discovering so many things I didn't know about that memorable Spring Fair which prompted Jimmy Young to mention it on his eponymous morning BBC Radio 1 show, and BBC TV's Pebble Mill to invite a bevy of 'dolly birds' (very non-PC 40 years on!) into the Birmingham studio to talk about the companies that they were representing. There's lots more besides to discover, so I really hope you enjoy reading the article as much as I enjoyed writing it. Please turn to Ah, I Remember It Well on pages 49-53.

Staying with the theme of milestones, Portmeirion Group is celebrating the 200th anniversary of Spode Italian, an intriguing design that continues to baffle the experts! You can read the design and the brand's fascinating history on pages 64-65, and discover how Portmeirion is creating a historic, brand new look for 2016. Additionally, other companies celebrating significant milestones in 2016 are Beatrix Potter (150 years), see pages 130-131, LSA International (50 years) and Carte Blanche Greetings (21 years), see pages 81-83.

Celebrating an unofficial milestone meanwhile, are The Greats Awards, now in their 14th year. Having celebrated my 17th anniversary as editor of Progressive Gifts & Home in December, I'm delighted to say that I was there from the inception of The Greats in 2003, and couldn't be prouder to see how many gift retailers, gift departments and niche retailers have been recognised and rewarded over the years. For more about The Greats Awards, how and where to send last minute entries and/or to buy tickets to the event on Thursday May 5, turn to What's The Buzz? on pages 37-41. By popular demand, the closing date has been extended to February 16. (See entry form enclosed).

And finally, to Christmas 2015. Was it a milestone year for retail? Not, it seems, for the general high street. For many towns, footfall was down, not least because of the mild weather, while for other areas, the terrible flooding and torrential rain couldn't help but take its toll. However, fortunately, as our Feedback article, Festive Fluctuations, reveals on pages 31-33, for many gift independents it wasn't all bad by any means, leaving many indies counting down to Spring Fair to refill their shelves.

I've got my suitcase packed, so looking forward to seeing you all at the show!

Above: Sue (right) with Alison Brooks, general retail manager at Chester Zoo's Diamond Jubilee Gift Shop, winner of The Greats Best Visitor Attraction Gift Shop category last year.

Turn to Animal Crackers on pages 68-69.

Cover: Lesser & Pavey proudly present their new Spring 2016 range.

Progressive Gifts & Home is published 7 times a year.

Subscription: UK; one year £50, two years £85 or three years £110. Overseas; one year £75, two years £125 or three years £165. Please send your cheque to: Progressive Gifts & Home, Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax 020 7609 4222/020 7607 6411 email: ianh@max-publishing.co.uk Copyright 2016. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Inside Jakki Brown Editor in Chief jw@max-publishing.co.uk PAGES 68-69

Sue Marks Editor suem@max-publishing.co.uk

Ian Hyder Publishing Director

9-23

News

27

Gift of the Gab THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS

Face To Face: Carte Blanche THE RIGHT BEARING

85-87

In Profile: madebyzen AN ULTRASONIC SUCCESS

89-95

Spotlight On... Candles SPRING SCENTS

104-105 Face To Face: Ashleigh & Burwood MAKING SCENTS OF CHRISTMAS 2016 108-109 In Profile: Root Candles A NATURAL PASSION 111-113 In Profile: Kaemingk IT'S GETTING TO FEEL A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

31-33

Feedback FESTIVE FLUCTUATIONS

37-41

The Greats 2016 HAVE YOU HEARD THE BUZZ?

45-47

Industry Issue THE YEAR AHEAD

49-53

Spring Fair: NEC 40th Anniversary AH YES, I REMEMBER IT WELL

55-57

Retailer Face To Face JOHN LEWIS: GETTING ENGAGED

133

59-61

Take 3 BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS

134-135 Spring Fair Exhibitors IT'S SHOWTIME!

63

Trends: Blush

137-139 Spring Fair: Retailers SPRING FAIR STRATEGY

64-65

Spode's 200th Anniversary BACK TO THE FUTURE

162-163 Best Sellers

67

London Stationery Show/ National Stationery Week SOCIAL STATIONERY - IT'S A GIFT

68-69

Retailer Face To Face CHESTER ZOO: ANIMAL CRACKERS

71-73

Early Ambitions WHEN I GROW UP

74-75

In Profile: Widdop and Co. 'BRAND' NEW

77-79

PG Live 2016 DESTINATION PG LIVE

ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

Angie Bryant Advertisement Manager

81-83

angieb@max-publishing.co.uk

115-119 Spotlight On... Jewellery & Fashion Accessories PERFECTLY PRETTY 125-127 Spotlight On... Nursery/Children's TOYING AROUND 130-131 Beatrix Potter CELEBRATING 150 YEARS

165

Sounding Off

Last Word SARAH WARD AND HENRI DAVIS

PAGES 130-131

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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THE UK’S NO.1 SHOWCASE OF NEW.

7-11 FEBRUARY 2016

NEC BIRMINGHAM UK VOLUME OPENS 6 FEB

Discover the latest innovations, coolest brands and most original products in gift and home.

www.springfair.com Espresso Cup, Bialetti, Hot Plate Products · Tree, CB Imports · Pineapple, Two’s Company by Mulhouse · Stool, Baa Stool · Foo Dogs, India Jane · Cockatoo Cushion, Bombay Duck · Patterned Cushion, CB Imports.

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Industry News

The Greats All Abuzz Last Chance To Enter!

In response to requests from retailers, the, closing date for The Greats 2016 has been extended until February 16. "With a busy festive season for many independent gift retailers, as our Feedback article on pages 31-33 reveals, and a myriad of London and regional trade shows to attend in recent weeks, the closing date for entries has been stretched a bit to enable entrants to get their submissions in to us," explains Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home.

(For those keen to get an entry in, a Greats form has been enclosed with this issue.)

A strong entry at the time of going to press in mid January reveals an exciting postbag, with gift shops and gift departments large and small revealing what has kept them at the forefront of gift retail over the past year.

The awards event, which is taking the theme of birds, bees and butterflies for 2016, is already gearing up to be spectacular, with the pre-lunch champagne reception - sponsored by category sponsor Root Candles - picking up on the important and topical theme of bees. (See Have You Hear The Buzz on pages 37-41).

"We're as excited as ever to discover which shop names will be on the trophies this year!" adds Sue. "We know that there are some wonderful, high energy gift shops out there, and we're looking forward to getting to know them over the coming year. For those entrants that are selected as finalists, it's a terrific way to up their shop's profile, helping to encourage footfall as well as a media presence."

For entrants who would prefer to submit electronically, entries can also be submitted by email to suem@max-publishing.co.uk ● Tickets to The Greats Awards, which take place at Park Lane's Grosvenor House on Thursday May 5, are available from Greats event organiser Clare Davies at Createvents tel: 01183 340085, or e-mail Clare at clare@createvents.co.uk.

For more information about how to enter The Greats Awards, visit www.thegreatsawards.co.uk Left: Have you entered your gift shop or department for The Greats Awards? To be in with a chance of seeing your name on a trophy this year, entries need to arrive by February 16.

Greats Sponsors 2016 The current impressive line up of category sponsors of The Greats 2016 include (in alphabetical order): Carrie Elspeth; Carte Blanche Group; Clarion Events/Home & Gift Harrogate; Gift Republic; Harrogate Christmas & Gift; Joe Davies; Gisela Graham; i2i Events/Autumn Fair/Spring Fair; Kaemingk; London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week; PG Live; Parlane International; Premier Decorations; Really Good/Soul; Ravensden; Root Candles; Sass & Belle; The Giftware Association; Wild & Wolf; Xystos and Yankee Candle.

Tell Us About An Extra Special Employee As always, The Greats is setting out to recognise and reward gift retail staff who go the extra mile. "The Retail Employee of the Year category is a terrific opportunity for retailers to enter members of staff who are extra special, those that put their all into helping shop owners make their business a success," says Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home. "We know from previous years how thrilled winners have been to walk off stage with a prestigious Greats trophy - many of whom didn't even know that they had been entered!"

Last year's Retail Employee of the Year winner remembers: "It took a minute to realise that they had called out my name," says Mandy Elliot, retail supervisor at the Giant's Causeway, National Trust Ireland. "I can't remember anything about getting on stage, shaking hands or collecting the award. I just remember wanting to keep everything together until I got back down to the table - then the tears came! For me this is the biggest achievement in my professional life to date."

To enter a member of staff for The Greats Retail Employee of the Year Award, a form can be downloaded from The Greats website, www.thegreatsawards.co.uk. Alternatively, entries can be sent directly to suem@max-publishing.co.uk By popular request, the closing date for entries has been extended to February 16.

UK Distributor Appointed Bookspeed is the new UK distributor for Hamburg based design brand Donkey Products, and will be launching the new 2016 product range at Spring Fair.

"It was a natural progression for our business to look at how else we can bring value to our retailers," explains Bookspeed's commercial director Lewis Dawson. "We believe we can use the skills we’ve developed selecting the best books to pick the best of the other products out there too. In 2013 we began acting as the UK agents for a couple of smaller gift and toy companies from mainland Europe, and realised that our customers valued our warehousing and fulfilment system, so we made the decision last January to bring Egmont Toys (Brussels) and Global Affairs (Amsterdam) into our warehouse as their exclusive UK distributor too. We’ve been speaking to Donkey Products for over three years," continued Lewis, "and once the Donkey team had the opportunity to meet the Bookspeed team, we realised that it was a great fit and that we share the same goals" Above: Donkey Tea, part of Donkey's 2016 collection, distributed in the UK by Bookspeed.

50 Year Anniversary Celebrating its half century, LSA International has unveiled a new collection for Spring/Summer 2016 using the five materials which have been central to the company’s aesthetic over the past five decades – glass, porcelain, wood, leather and enamelled steel.

The collection has drawn on the company’s design heritage to create contemporary interpretations of drinkware, tableware and decorative accessories. The Spring/Summer 2016 collection includes Celebrate and Host which were specially designed to capture the spirit of special occasions. Meanwhile, some of the original designs from LSA International’s archives, such as Otto and Olivia, have also been reissued, while best sellers Serve, Lulu and Stack have been extended with new styles and colours.

Each piece in the new collection has been designed by creative director Monika Lubkowska-Jonas, the daughter of LSA’s cofounder Janus Lubkowski. All glassware is mouthblown using traditional techniques.

Below: LSA International's mouth blown limited edition Host range of bowls - shown here in gold - has the special 50th year logo individually marked on the base.

Above: Did they really call out my name? A thrilled Mandy Elliot on her way up to the stage to collect her trophy at last year's Greats Awards.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS Spring Fair Open Week Preview

7th-11th February 22nd -25th May

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Industry News

Spring Fair Anniversary 40th Year For Mega Show At NEC February 2016 is a special year for Spring Fair, with the show celebrating its 40th year at the NEC in Birmingham.

(See Ah Yes, I Remember It Well on pages 49 - 53).

From just five halls in 1976, there are currently 16 halls across 14 categories: Body & Bath, Children's Gifts, Toys & Gadgets, Contemporary Gift, Christmas Gifts, Floral & Seasonal Decorations, Fashion Jewellery, Accessories & Luggage, Volume Gift & Home, Greetings & Gift, Home, Gift, Retail Solutions, The Summerhouse, Kitchen, Dining & Housewares, Licensed Gifts and The Party Show.

Gifts has been re-edited this year, with Hall 4 now including many home and fragrance companies, while more general gifts will be showcased in Hall 5, alongside Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets. Home in Hall 1 will focus on home furnishings, textiles, artwork and accessories, adjacent to Christmas Gifts, Floral & Seasonal Decorations in Hall 2.

Hall 3 meanwhile, will be home to the New Product Showcase.

“Consultation with our customers revealed the need for certain modifications to the hall layout and access points to improve footfall, so we’ve implemented a raft of new changes to meet those requirements in 2016," comments Spring Fair portfolio director Nick Davison.

Other changes this year include an improved layout to encourage footfall to the Atrium side of the show via an express entrance in Hall 9, channelling visitors to Halls 6, 7, 8 and 20 as soon as the show opens. Linking walkways between Halls 4 and 8 and Halls 5 and 9 have been implemented to improve the flow of visitors around the show. Seminars will be taking place in Hall 6, which houses the e-commerce Theatre.

Overall, some 3,000 'best of British' and international suppliers, including hundreds that are new to Spring Fair for 2016, will be presenting up to 300,000 new products.

The show opens its doors on February 7-11 at the NEC, Birmingham, where it is colocated with Jewellery & Watch Birmingham. The Volume Halls will open one day early on Saturday February 6. Visit www.springfair.com Above: Talking shop at last year's Spring Fair.

Left: The popular Fashion Accessories catwalk.

Making A Spring Fair Wish List Spring’s Fair’s organisers, i2i Events Group, are encouraging visitors to visit the show's new online Wish List facility, which enables retailers to explore exhibitors products throughout the year, as well as plan their visit to the show.

Buyers can save and print ‘shopping lists’ of favourite items from a comprehensive database of Spring Fair exhibitors’ products. The search and select mechanism also provides insight into trends as popular products are placed on wish lists. ● A new, dedicated licensing section also features on the website, highlighting hot licensed properties that include Star Wars, The Great British Bake Off, Doctor Who, Me to You, Minions and Katie Alice. Visit The Wish List at www.springfair.com Right: Katie Alice on the Creative Tops stand at Spring Fair 2015.

New Look For Wax Lyrical Wax Lyrical will be among the companies at Spring Fair unveiling their new branding (Hall 4, stand D40/E41). "The inspiration for the new design was created in-house, with the lettering inspired by British ironmongery to give it a 'Northern' feel," explains confirms Nikki Garnett, heading of marketing and creative. "The copper lettering reflect candlelight while the icon encapsulates a candle flame."

Spring Fair At A Glance ● Hall 1: Home ● Hall 2: Christmas Gifts, Floral and Seasonal

Decorations; UKTI stand and seminar theatre; Café ● Hall 3: Greetings & Gift; The Party Show; The Party Show Stage; New Product Showcase ● Hall 4: Gift ● Hall 5: Gift; Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets ● Hall 6: Contemporary Gift; Ecommerce Seminar Theatre; Retail Solutions ● Hall 7: Contemporary Gift ● Hall 8: The Summerhouse ● Hall 9: Kitchen, Dining & Housewares; Seasons Club ● Halls 10, 11 and 12: Volume Gift & Home; Volume Bar ● Hall 19 & 20: Fashion Jewellery, Accessories & Luggage; Fashion Accessories Catwalk ● Halls 17 & 18: Jewellery & Watch Birmingham; Jewellery Catwalk and Café

A Bubbly Breakfast Invitation It's open house on the newly re-branded Widdop and Co., stand G10/J11 in Hall 4 at 8am on Sunday February 7! Champagne corks will be popping as the company (formerly known as Widdop Bingham) celebrates a new milestone in its 133 year old history with a new name, a new logo in 'Widdop blue', a new stand and new products. (See 'Brand' New on pages 74-75).

Louise Young, divisional director at i2i Events Group, will be among those joining in the celebrations.

Hollywood Here We Come!

Following his partnership with Kitchen Craft, Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood (below) will be among the celebrities popping into Spring Fair on Monday February 8. Paul will be visiting the Kitchen Craft stand G24/H25 in Hall 9.

"We are thrilled that he will be involved in the preview launch of our new collection which Paul and the Kitchen Craft design team have worked on together," comments Kitchen Craft’s marketing controller Claire Budgen.

Addressing the surging popularity in homemade baking beyond cakes - such as bread, pies and puddings - the range focuses on bakeware and baking prep tools and accessories.

Other well known names at Spring Fair include designers Cath Kidston, who will be presenting the Gift of the Year winners with their awards, Sophie Conran and Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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we’ve got giftware all wrapped up

Come and join us at…

29th January–2nd February Christmasworld, Frankfurt, Germany, EF: Hall 9.1 Stand C78–Enesco Ltd Hall 9.1 Stand C71

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12th–16th February Ambiente, Frankfurt, Germany, Hall 9.1 Stand C71

SUMMER HOUSE

7th–11th February International Spring Fair, NEC,Birmingham, Hall 4

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Enesco Limited, Head Office & Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN Tel: 01228 404022 Fax: 01228 404041 email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services: Tel: +44 1228 404066 Fax: +44 1228 404080 email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk

© Disney BRITTO™ © 2016 Britto Central, Inc. © Disney © Disney/Pixar. © Disney © 2016 Enesco Ltd. © Disney, based on the “Winnie the Pooh” works by A.A Milne and E.H.Shepard.

Enesco reserves the right to retire, or change the specification or colouration of any model, at any time without prior notice.

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Save the date!

The London Stationery Show makes stationery buying a pleasure with hundreds of great brands and thousands of products from around the world, all in one place.

Beautiful pens… wonderful wrap… stunning notebooks and diaries… gorgeous gift and social stationery… stylish storage… this is where fashion meets function! Be part of it.

RSVP to stationeryshow.co.uk for free entry

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Industry News

GOTY Awards Cath Kidston Takes To The Stage Iconic designer Cath Kidston is the new ambassador for the Gift of the Year Awards 2016, (GOTYs), with her first assignment being the presentation of the Awards to the category winners on Sunday February 7. The event - which includes PG&H as a sponsor - will take place on the Trends Catwalk in Hall 20 at the end of the day.

“This is a terrific coup," enthuses Sarah Ward, chief executive of The Giftware Association which Above: Cath Kidston is the new ambassador for the Gift of the Year Awards. organises the GOTYs. "Cath is revered in the gift and home industry and her involvement with Gift of the Year is testament to the esteem in which the industry’s most prestigious competition is held. We are delighted that she wants to become a part of the great community that is the GA. Her presence will give great encouragement to all those who take part in Gift of the Year, irrespective of whether they are successful or not.”

There was an increase in entries in several categories this year, to include Home Accessories (sponsored by Progressive Gifts & Home), Card and Wrap and Branded/Character. Other categories which attracted a good entry were Kids and Under £10. According to the Association, the Hot Novelty and Festive and Seasonal categories were more popular than in previous years.

Visitors to Spring Fair will be able to view the winning and highly commended products on the GA’s stand in Hall 5 (F84/G89) throughout Spring Fair.

Nail Biting Time For GOTY Finalists Three products have been shortlisted as finalists in this year's GOTY Home Accessories category, sponsored by Progressive Gifts & Home. They are Floating Cork Light from SUCK UK; a vegan suede cushions range by Katherine Williams for Wraptious and an iBeani iPad, tablet and eReader tablet bean bag stand from DeVancer.

Other finalists include Cherry Orchard, shortlisted in the Commemorative and Collectable Gifts category, Wow Stuff's Great British Bake Off, shortlisted in the Best Brand License category and Elite in the Gifts For Men category.

The entries were judged by 22 retail buyers and industry experts who selected the winning and highly commended products.

Home At Top Drawer Home, Craft, Gift and Fashion came together, along with a brand new Food Emporium for gift and artisan foods - and a Spotted section for up and coming talent - under the newly re-branded umbrella of Top Drawer held at London's Olympia in January.

Visitors were delighted to be able to chat to Keith Brymer-Jones, a judge of BBC2’s Great Pottery Throw Down, who was throwing his potter’s wheel live inside the entrance to the Home sector of the show. Keith - who is head of design at Make International - also revealed his ‘life as a potter’ in a talk at Academy Live, with insights into the TV show and its impact.

Other presentations at Top Drawer’s Academy Live included homewares designer Ella Doran and lifestyle entrepreneur Charlie Gladstone from gift retail outlet Pedlars.

The show was a 'first' for new show director Alejandra Campos, who told PG&H: "Top Drawer has evolved from being a London gift show to our largest ever event, representing five 'worlds' - Gift, Home, Craft, Fashion and Food plus Spotted - while keeping the standard as high as ever with a higher level of product. We are a very edited show and our point of difference is our selection and our design-led merchandise placement which give the buyer a more enjoyable experience."

Making 'Little People' Happy Lifestyle brand Happy Jackson - created by Heather Flynn and Giles Andreae - has added a further raft of licensed products to its fast growing collection. The company is expanding into products aimed at the ‘little people’ of the family - children and pets.

Lines from licensee Wild & Wolf will include dribble bibs (right), changing mats, snack tubs and feeding sets for babies and children, as well as ceramic food bowls and storage tins for food and treats for pets.

“We’re excited to be adding a range for little people to Happy Jackson this Spring,” enthuses Heather. (Turn to Bright Young Things on pages 59-61 and Toying Around on pages 125-127).

Ambiente's Taste Of Italy February's Ambiente will be putting the spotlight on Italy - its partner country - with an eye-catching Dolce Vita exhibit in the foyer of Hall 4.1. It was created by renowned Italian designer Paola Navone and will showcase traditional Italian craftsmanship and craft skills as well as Italian conviviality.

Elsewhere at the show, educational and fun designs, particularly for children and the younger generation, will reveal less kitsch and more intelligent ideas, say organisers Messe Frankfurt. Exhibitors in the show's three major product areas - Dining, Giving and Living - will be reflecting the trends.

Looking to its green credentials, Ambiente’s first Ethical Style Guide will be marked with an Ethical Style label both at the show and on its website. Other show highlights include Design Plus, enabling businesses to show off their newest designs; Solutions 2016, which focuses on products offering everyday solutions for the home and kitchen, and Speed-Dating@Ambiente, a three minute presentation slot by companies looking to get their products noticed by the media. New this year will be 12 exhibitors in the Gourmet Shop in the Dining section.

Ambiente takes place at Messe Frankfurt from February 12-16. Visit www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Below: The Living sector at Ambiente.

Above: Keith Brymer-Jones is shown at his potter’s wheel during Top Drawer in January.

Left: New Top Drawer show director Alejandra Campos, who joined Clarion Events in the Autumn. She brings a wealth of experience from her roles within exhibitions, life events and publishing.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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SPRING FAIR HALL 4 E10-G11

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Industry News

Dampening Spirits

Below: Poppies in Whalley, Lancashire, was devastated by the floods.

Storms Desmond And Eva Cause Havoc Independent gift retailers based in areas that were severely affected by floods have had to dig deep to keep their spirits ups as the long recovery programme continues.

Early in December, the devastation of Storm Desmond hit Lancashire and Cumbria, causing flood damage to properties within the towns and villages in the counties. But worse was to come when, on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, Storm Eva brought winds of up to 80mph and persistent downpours to not only those same areas but also Yorkshire and South-West Scotland too, inflicting more watery destruction.

Among the communities that awoke on Boxing Day morning to severe floods was Jill Landon, who together with her business partner Janet Slater, own Poppies gift and card shop, based in Whalley, in Lancashire where the river Ribble burst its banks.

The water, which went a metre high, not only flooded the shop and its contents, but caused a lot of destruction. “It was horrendous to see the damage that had been caused. The water had caused cupboards and racks to be tipped over,” says Jill. She explained that the shop has had to be “totally gutted” and that she has no idea when they will be up and trading again.

“I had no idea it would take so long, but it takes a while for it all to completely dry out. We will miss Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day at the least. It is the shock of it all,” she told PG&H.

Out Of The Blue Spode, part of Portmeirion Group, is celebrating the 200th anniversary of iconic design Blue Italian this year. Celebrations will include window display competitions, retailer hosted birthday parties across the globe, a social media campaign, the pledge of 200 hours to local charities as well as films, point-of-sale material and the launch of two new Spode collections at Spring Fair. (See Back To The Future on pages 64-65). ● An upbeat Portmeirion Group expects to report record revenues for the year ended 31 December 2015 of over £68 million, an increase of at least 11% over the previous year. This is the seventh consecutive year in which the company has achieved record sales.

The Gift Of Giving Kind hearted North East gift and greeting card agent Neil Greenwood, and some lovely folk from Oldham, were real life Santa and elves at Christmas when they helped out those affected by the flooding.

“After seeing some of my customers’ shops flooded on the news I offered, on Facebook, for a family of four to come for dinner on Christmas Day and stay over. My friend owns a local pub and said he could feed up to 30 people. I then contacted a hotel I DJ at to see if they could accommodate Above: Gift agent Neil Greenwood (front) will some of the 30 people and also a local coach company to transport them. I giftwrapped presents that were coached over to Appleby to then asked local business and neighbours to donate ingredients add some festive cheer on Christmas Day for people for the big day along with presents, so that we could send the devasted by the floods. coach back full of gifts,” he explained.

Sadly, there was a second flood so the people Neil had invited ended up having to salvage their homes and businesses. However Neil organised a coach to go to Appleby (one of the affected towns) on Christmas Eve filled with over 600 presents.“Hopefully it made Christmas Day a little bit less stressful for those flooded”, said Neil.

Adding An Extra Dimension Carte Blanche Group (CBG) recently commissioned leading research company Structural Thinking to undertake an extensive project which has involved talking to 4,000 consumers in depth, even accompanying some of them on shopping trips to buy gifts and cards.

“The consumer purchasing decision of buying a card or gift is more complicated from so many other consumer products,” explains the company's commercial director Gerard O’Mahony.“Structural Thinking has worked with many major brands in different product categories. In all the other studies it has undertaken, they look at the ‘five 'ws’ of consumer purchasing behaviour (who, what, when, where and why). For the first time ever, with our research, they have had to add a sixth 'w' - whom, as the recipient is such an important part in the purchasing decision for a card or a gift.”

The full findings, expected to be presented to Carte Blanche by the end of February, will feed into the direction and specifics of the company’s greeting card model line, including its other brands such as Wishing Well Studios and Hotchpotch as well as subsequent gift collections.

“We will also be able to use the research findings to enable us to tailor selections for specific retail customer needs whether they are independent or multiple,” confirms Gerard.

Record Fund Raising Achievement The recent British Jewellery Giftware & Finishing Federation’s Benevolent Society Ball was quite a night, raising a record £32,000 on the evening for the charity. The majority of funds came from an auction by David Doyle of Jewellery Brokers, the Society's vice chairman.

The date for next year’s Benevolent Society Ball has been announced as December 1, with early bird tickets available at a special rate. Contact either Lynn Snead or Gill Price at the Federation on 0121 745 4613 or 0121 237 1138.

Left: Guests having fun - and raising money - at the record breaking Benevolent Society Ball.

You're The Greatest Premier Decorations has again been voted The Greatest Christmas Supplier of 2015 by Garden Trade News in its annual Greatest Christmas Awards.

“This category is voted by retailers, so we are very pleased that our customers feel that we are getting things right and look forward to delivering the same excellent level of service in 2016,” comments Pravin Patel, director at Premier Decorations, who accepted the award.

Above: Front row, from left to right: Carol Paris (ceo of HTA), Pravin Patel (Premier), Usha Patel (Premier) and Trevor Pfeiffer (Garden Trade News).

Harrogate High Five Visitor numbers were up 8% at Harrogate Christmas & Gift, with exhibitors and visitors reporting brisk business. “Christmas & Gift has once again exceeded all expectations with visitor numbers up for the fifth year running and the potential for further growth highly likely," comments show organiser Simon Anslow. "This is great news for the industry as a whole, indicating that the festive product and gift sector is more buoyant than ever. During the show we had numerous enquiries from new companies wanting to participate next year and, potentially, we may even have to expand into further halls in 2017,” Simon added.

Next year’s show runs from January 8-11, 2017. Exhibitor bookings open in early March 2016. For more information visit www.harrogatefair.com PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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British by design... British by design... British by design... British progressive gifts final 2016.indd 2.indd 2 1 018_GH_February

bctf

British Craft Trade Fair

British Craft Trade Fair 10th - 12th April 2016 Great Yorkshire Showground Harrogate, HG2 8QZ, UK

The definitive home and gift fair for independent retailers.

If you haven’t already registered, go to...

www.bctf.co.uk Tel: 01444 246 446 Email: info@bctf.co.uk

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Industry News

Me To You Rebrands A 10,000 Bear £180K Giveaway In the coming year, Carte Blanche Greetings (CBG) will give away 10,000 free Me to You plush bears as part of the massive re-launch of the brand.

This mega giveaway, which represents a £180,000 investment by CBG, will see a mass of specially produced plush Me to You bears being given to retailers, general consumers, members of the press and bloggers, in a year long programme of events, competitions and promotions.

The thrust of this activity, is summed up in three words - “brand to hand” - by Gerard O’Mahony, CBG’s commercial director.

“Once you get people engaging with Me to You, either again, or for first time, you can win them over,” he believes. The company sees it as a long-term investment in the brand. With retail engagement in mind, the first batch of the 10,000 special bears will be given away at Spring Fair with some retained for PG Live in May. Other activities in the pipeline will be timed to support the launch of the new range into retail in April. These will be aimed more at consumers, to include competitions to drive custom to retailers as well as events in key locations such as major shopping centres. These include Bluewater, Lakeside and the Trafford Centre.

Wrendale's Shock 'No Thank You' Survey According to a survey commissioned by Wrendale Designs, one in four parents has revealed that their child does not send thank you messages - written or digital - to say ‘thank you’ for Christmas gifts. Yet 68% of the1,000 parents surveyed, with children aged 5-16, were in favour of written 'thank you' notes.

Better news is that just over a quarter of parents (27%) confirm their child sends only handwritten 'thank yous' for their gifts, while a further 12% send mostly hand-written notes. More than 1 in 10 (14%) says their child sends either a combination of digital and handwritten notes, or only digital 'thank you’s.'

“To me, nothing beats the thrill of opening a handwritten card or letter, and it’s especially lovely when it expresses gratitude for something you have given," states Hannah Dale, founder, award winning artist and author of Wrendale Designs. (See Bright Young Things on pages 59-61). "In this increasingly digital age, I’m delighted that so many people still see the value of a handwritten ‘thank you’, although it’s a shock that a quarter of parents say their children don’t send any 'thank you' message at all."

Regional statistics revealed that 73% of parents in the East of England agreed it's nicer to receive a handwritten 'thank you' note than a digital message - four in 10 parents said their children pen handwrite notes only - with 17% of parents in Wales revealing that their children sent the fewest handwritten notes.

Overall, almost six in 10 respondents agreed that is nicer to receive a handwritten note than a digital message.

Above and left: Hannah Wrendale's new Snails & Pigtails range was inspired by her three children.

Digital Christmas 'Thank You's' Becoming The Norm A survey carried out by The Present Finder has indicated that handwritten 'thank you' letters have been overtaken by digital messages for the first time this year. Some 75% of respondents said they didn't expect a traditional 'thank you' card or letter, while 50% of the 1,300 people surveyed confirmed that they would be happy with an e-mail, text message or Facebook post. A quarter of respondents also confirmed that they enjoyed receiving a phone call.

Saying 'thank you' for a gift has also been highlighted by former MP Anne Widdecombe, who recently banged the drum for 'thank you' letters in relation to Christmas gifts. Unconcerned whether the 'thank you' note was a letter or a text, she urged parents to encourage their children simply to write them. ● BIC has joined the line-up of National Stationery Week sponsors. "Each year, we embark on a new journey with National Stationery Week and for 2016 we are focusing on Writing Maters," says Chris Leonard-Morgan, founder of National Stationery Week and the London Stationery Show. (See Social Stationery on page 67).

PEOPLE ❐ The British Retail Consortium's (BRC) chief executive Helen Dickinson (right) was awarded an OBE in the New Year’s Honours List for 2016 for services to the retail industry. Helen is a strong advocate of retail, supporting retailers and influencing governments and stakeholders in order to make a positive difference to the industry and its customers. ❐ Rebecca Morrisroe (right) has been appointed to the Joe Davies sales team. She brings a wealth of experience to the company, and will be looking after customers in the South of England. ❐ James Illingworth (right), who studied for his degree in Economics and Management at Oxford University, will be joining Widdop and Co. as business information manager on April 1, a critical role in the future development of the business, says the company. James is currently working as a consultant with North Highland. Fifth generation, he joins his cousins Stephen and Daniel Illingworth in the business. ❐ Walking stick specialist Classic Canes has announced the appointment of Cordelia Chapman (right) as account manager.

We'll Miss You Bob Bob Bean, Joe Davies' area sales representative for the South of England, retired in December. Popular with customers and colleagues alike, Bob’s dry sense of humour and his warm and open manner will be missed by everyone who has been lucky enough to come into contact with him, say the company. The team at Joe Davies wish him a long and happy retirement.

Right: Bob Bean, who retired in December.

Left: Anne Widdecombe is among many high profile celebrities encouraging children to write ‘thank you' notes.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Industry News

Lack Of Christmas Cheer

Below: A seven year festive low was a disappointment to high street retailers.

High Streets Suffer Seven Year Low Bargain hunters and mild, wet weather resulted in the worst Christmas trading figures on the high street, in general, since 2008. BDO’s monthly High Street Sales Tracker recorded a massive 5.3% drop in year-on-year sales for December - the worst monthly results for seven years.

Sales of lifestyle goods were down 3.7% year-onyear, although homewares rallied with 16% growth.

Nevertheless, BDO’s HSST index for non-store sales, grew at the slowest rate since BDO’s records for nonstore began in 2010 (up 7.5%). The monthly figures could have been worse but for a rally between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, say the analysts, with the last week of the month dropping 2.6% compared to the same week last year.

A combination of record-breaking rainfall and reduced discounting also deterred shoppers in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

“Many retailers held out for a last minute sales Christmas rush that never arrived,” comments Sophie Michael, head of retail and wholesale at BDO. “People were much savvier about bargain hunting. After Black Friday, many shoppers seemed to sit tight waiting for the sales to start on December 25. Early indications are that activity in January strengthened, so retailers will be hoping they can claw back some ground in the traditional January sales period, but it’s clear the overall picture is one of reduced spending.” ● According to the CBI’s monthly Distributive Trades Survey, the volume of retail sales in the run-up to Christmas remained below retailers’ expectations despite picking up in December and finishing slightly above the average for the time of year.

See Festive Fluctuations on pages 31-33 for how independent gift retailers fared.

NEWS IN BRIEF ❐ Portmeirion Group is among the Stoke companies commemorating the Queen's 90th birthday in April. The company has launched a Royal Worcester and a Spode collection to include commemorative mugs and plates.

Above: In honour of HM The Queen, Royal Worcester's 90th birthday tankard.

❐ Tobar Group Trading recently announced the successful completion of a management buy out, led by ceo David Mordecai and financial director Glyn Loveday, backed by Merino Private Equity. Brands within Tobar Group Trading include Tobar, Hawkins Bazaar and Stocking Fillers. ❐ In the run-up to Christmas, scented candles got a big thumbs down from Daily Mail journalist Laura Freeman, who claimed that they are over-priced. Nevertheless, quoting The Grocer magazine, she said the sector was said to be worth £78m, with sales rising 22.1% in the past year. Over 25% of households are scented candles purchasers.

(See Spring Scents on pages 108-109).

How The High Street Performed ● John Lewis continued a good start to 2016, with sales climbing 15.6% for the week to January 9. The department store said that it recorded double digit growth every day apart from one during the period. Online sales, meanwhile, grew by 21.4% compared to last year (representing 40% of total sales). Mobile continued to be its fastest-growing channel. Sales through Click & Collect were up 16% - chosen by half of all online orders. ● House of Fraser saw an overall 5.3% lift in like-for-like sales boosted by its biggest-ever online trading day on Black Friday (jumping 40% year on year online). The retailer reported that its sales in the seven days before Christmas rose 6% (online up 61.8% and store sales up 2.2%.) ● Debenhams reported a strong performance in the seven weeks to January 9, with a 3.7% increase in like-forlike sales despite acknowledging tougher high street trading. ● Poundland, which bought 99p Stores last year, was among the high street multiples that saw its profits hit by poor Christmas trading. ● Gifting sold well at Tesco with the supermarket revealing both group and UK like for like sales growth. For the six weeks ending January 9, Tesco reported group like for like sales growth of 2.1% and UK like for like growth of 1.3%.

Left: Debenhams was among the department stores which saw an increase in sales.

Sweet On Thorntons Three gift/greeting card shops have recently become Thorntons franchisees: Thorntons at Every Occasion, Oadby; Thorntons at Smart Ideas, Bromsgrove and Thorntons at Baristas Café, Clydebank.

"For three years we’ve been proud to roll out our successful new concept stores which feature new Above: Smart Ideas, Bromsgrove, recently put in furnishings and elaborate finishes, all lit up with LED lighting that truly the 'Thorntons in your store' concept. showcases the fantastic range we offer. We know these finishing touches will make all the difference," says Han Van Rees, Thornton's franchise D&R manager.

"Chocolate is the perfect gift for any occasion," continues Han. "If you run a card and gift shop, our chocolate adds an extra special touch to gifts at every season. Our 'Thorntons…in your store' concept offers a full range of crafted Thorntons chocolates in beautiful packaging, complementing all product ranges in store." ● Thorntons is among the exhibitors at Spring Fair and will be exhibiting by the entrance to Hall 3, stand M01.

❐ A young 18-year-old candlemaker, Aidan Paterson, is looking to take on the candle big boys. With a new range of handmade, soy wax candles launching for Spring, Aidan, who is based in the Scottish Borders, comments: "Retailers and consumers frequently tell me that my candles look, smell and perform like products that are two or even three times the price."

Above: Sunshine created by Aidan Paterson.

❐ Local businesses in small towns and villages could receive a boost in trade of between 30-60% if councils abolished car parking charges claimed car leasing company Flexed.co.uk, who carried out a survey of parking and shopping habits. ❐ Some £225 million worth of unwanted gifts are estimated to have been taken back in the UK alone this year. In the period after Christmas, returns jumped by 81% compared to their normal levels. Over 65% of consumers were expecting to return items bought online this year, compared to 51% just three years ago. ❐ Australian retailer Wesfarmers bought 265 Homebase from Home Retail Group for £340 million. The outlets will be rebranded under the Bunnings banner over the next three to five years. Wesfarmers said it would spend a further £500m on upgrading the stores.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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.

Cards & GIFTS

At Thorntons we know that chocolate is the perfect gift for any occasion! If you run a Card and Gift shop, our delicious chocolate adds an extra special touch to all your gifts, at every season.

We want to make sure we give you the best possible options to enhance your in-store gifting opportunities – which is where “Thorntons …in your store” comes in!

“Thorntons…in your store” gives you and your shoppers

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th be

Fo th lig to

C H

... in your store

TS

or us

ns

... join us at the full range of passionately crafted Thorntons chocolates in beautiful packaging, that will compliment all your product ranges in store.

For 3 years we’ve been proud to roll out our successful ‘new concept stores’ that feature new furnishings and elaborate finishes, all lit up with state of the art lighting that truly showcases the fantastic range we offer. We know these finishing touches will make all the difference in your store(s)!

Come and see us for a chat and a chocolate (or two)! Next to the entrance, Hall 3 stand M01

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EXPERIENCE THE WORLD OF MILLEFIORI

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BIRMINGHAM Feb 07th - 11th 2016

HALL 4 - BOOTH D30 – E31

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Left: John Jackson, md of Retro36 in Scarborough.

Below and bottom: Retro36's Christmas themed windows included Harry Potter and an Advent display.

GIFT OF THE

GAB

The Magic Of

Christmas

The festive season was a series of ups and downs for Retro36 in Scarborough, explains md John Jackson. An award winning shop window display helped to draw people in, but continual rain couldn't help but put a dampener on footfall in the town. However, footfall in-store was up on the previous year. So how else did Retro36 work some Christmas magic?

"Christmas is, of course, the most crucial time in the retail calendar.

Most retailers are looking to take around 20% of their annual turnover in the final six weeks of the festive period so it’s make or break. And that goes for my business too.

This Christmas, we set out to really capture our customers’ imagination. We wanted to create such a festive frenzy that people would be drawn into our store to see what all the fuss was about. We therefore set about creating a five point plan which included: windows, product placement, price points, visual merchandising and social media.

Our windows had an inspirational theme: The Magic of Christmas. We designed and made brand new, 6ft high

window backing, effectively encasing each window. This gave us the freedom to create and communicate The Magic of Christmas message in a clear and captivating way. The displays went down a storm. Customers regularly congratulated us on how fabulous they looked.

What made things even sweeter was receiving a local accolade by winning Best Themed Christmas Window Display, an annual competition run by Scarborough’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

In tandem with the new window backing, we rearranged the store layout to highlight key Christmas lines from our product portfolio. Usually, our store has a very neat and tidy feel, but we had a brainwave… why not make our store like a giant Christmas stocking, bulging at the seams with stock? So we loaded our displays. And it worked!

Social media was another area where we really pushed hard this Christmas. We scheduled Facebook and Twitter updates, focusing our followers’ attention on no-

brainer yet interesting gift ideas for friends and family. Scheduling updates, in advance, took the burden off us at the busiest trading period of the year. This allowed us to focus on our customers’ needs in-store and online.

We also extended our opening hours in December, giving our customers extra time to shop. However, Scarborough’s Thursday late night shopping turned out to be a festive flop. It’s been running for a number of years in the town, but, unfortunately, very few businesses take part. We were the only retailer open on our street. Suffice to say, it wasn’t worth staying open. The town was also troubled with Christmas lights outages in the run up to Christmas, which didn’t help matters.

Also impacting on business was that the town as a whole suffered from surprisingly low footfall in December, down by an alarming 12%. However, amazingly, footfall in our store was up on the previous year.

We put it down to our window displays drawing people in. But, it was still difficult to prize cash out of people's wallets. Another negative was the very high rainfall. The constant wet weather dampened customers’ appetite to spend, affecting trade, particularly at the weekends.

Best selling Christmas lines this year included Yankee Candle and Bomb Cosmetics. These sold very well in the final few days, especially to our male customers who were desperate to find a decent present and score some much needed brownie points with their loved ones.

All in all, we had a very good Christmas. But, we’re not resting on our laurels. We want to do more. To inspire. To delight. To push forward. To take Retro36 to new heights. We’re looking forward to the challenge!"

Black Friday Bonanza "Black Friday was a great day for us," confirms John. "We advertised our Retro36 Black Friday Bonanza a week in advance, creating a sense of anticipation.

It paid off. Takings were up, compared to the year before. It’s the first time we’ve been involved with Black Friday and we plan to build on our success."

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New Inspirations From Transomnia Spring may not quite be in the air yet, but it’s certainly what everyone in the gift trade is gearing up for. The NEC Spring Fair sees the launch of Transomnia’s new collection for Spring / Summer 2016, which builds on the success of their best-selling Scandi Chic and Felt Animal ranges, while adding in lots of brand new design themes to offer their customers even more fast-selling must-have products.

In the past year Transomnia have strengthened their design and buying team to help ensure they can deliver even more winning products to their customers.

The strategy has clearly worked, as this season they have a greater proportion of own-design new products than ever before.

Whether it’s a cool conservatory, a trip to the beach, an adventurous journey into the great blue yonder - or any of numerous other on-trend themes Transomnia have the products to help retailers create the look they want for the coming season.

The new collections have already been previewed at the company’s January Open Days at their Tunbridge Wells showroom, at which the feedback was overwhelmingly positive and customer orders were well up on last year’s event.

If you didn’t make it to one of the Open Days, the next best way to see their new collections is at the Spring Fair in Birmingham, where Transomnia have a spacious stand in Hall 7 - but if you run out of time at the show, the company’s team of sales agents will be out on the road immediately afterwards with their iPads, ready to take customers through all the new ranges.

Transomnia Spring Fair Hall 7 Stand E04/F03 028-029_GH_February 2016.indd 3

To find out more, or to arrange for an agent to call, contact sales@transomnia.com or phone the sales team on 01892 703660.

www.transomnia.com 16/01/2016 13:58 15/01/2016 17:12:45

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Feedback: Christmas 2015

Festive Fluctuations

Above: Old Time Christmas decoration from Gisela Graham.

Below left: Saffrons of York.

Below: Polkadot, Keynsham.

Christmas 2015 turned out to be a bit of a mixed Santa's sack, with some gift shops very pleased with the festive season, while others battled adverse weather conditions and the knock-on effects of a drop in footfall.

PG&H braved the early January elements to find out what impacted and what didn't.

A Very Merry Christmas

"Christmas 2015 was excellent, as good as the previous year," enthuses Mike Gaskell, who co-owns Saffrons of York with his wife Stephanie. The couple have two other shops, Little Saffrons in York and Saffrons of Northallerton. "Christmas products sold much better than last year, especially baubles, angels, snow globes and Christmas signs," he confirmed.

Explains Mike: "Our Christmas shop goes in during the last week of October, which is half term, and then we launch it more aggressively at the beginning of November. We feel this is the right balance. People don't like to see Christmas promoted too early in the way that the supermarkets do it. So we've found that half term works for us and I'm pleased to say that we definitely got it right this year."

As with previous years, the average spend at Saffrons starts to increase from the last week of October. "While a normal average spend is about ÂŁ10, in the run-up to Christmas, this rises to around ÂŁ30," confirms Mike. "Christmas Eve was steady, as with previous Christmases. It's never manic, although, of course, we do get mainly male last minute shoppers. While it may not the best day, it is still a good day for us.

More people were shopping locally in the last two weeks, especially in our Northallerton shop."

Knowing, from previous years, that takings were bound to dip on Black Friday/Cyber Monday, Mike and Stephanie did consider offering a percentage discount to counteract the knock-on effect, but in the end, decided not to go ahead. "We do have some sale items after Christmas however," continues Mike, "such as Christmas themed candles, but other than that, our products work throughout the year."

If there was a downside for Saffrons, it was the post Christmas weather, with media stories about York being closed keeping people away. "Yet the flooding didn't affect the whole city of York," highlights Mike. "We traded all the way through it, but unfortunately, it did mean that it was much quieter because people were avoiding the city."

2016: "I think it will be a great year," states Mike. "Definitely as good as last year. We are currently freshening up our shops and really looking forward to Spring Fair in February so that we can bring back lots of new products for our customers."

Late But Steady

"Christmas was steady but it could have been better," says Wendy Day, owner of Polkadot in Keynsham, Bristol.

"Somehow, it didn't have that exciting, last minute buzz.

Normally, people start to buy from us much earlier. This year however, it came very late, kicking in after Black Friday, where we offered 20% off everything, carrying the discount through to the following week. Nevertheless, we did very well with our seasonal decorations, up on last year, with diffusers from Stoneglow Candles another winner, along with Equilibrium jewellery from Joe Davies which flew out.

Scarves however, were a big disappointment. In fact, after Christmas, I reduced them by 50%."

Wendy says that what had the biggest impact though, was the weather. "It is very open here, and we did battle with very wet, dreary weather throughout December. We didn't see the sun at all."

2016: "I think it will come down to product," says Wendy. "I will have to be more picky re the products I choose for the shop. I will also be looking at ordering smaller quantities but, hopefully, more often."

Increased Sales Across The Board

"We opened our Christmas room on October 5 and followed this up with a large window display on November 2," explains Tilley Tebbutt, co-owner of Marmalade Meringue in Hinckley.

"We found that in November, Christmas decorations were a big seller for us which backed up our increased spend in this area. We found 'present buying sales' only really began in December when our customers used us for special gifts that they wanted to choose in person, unique items that they struggled to find elsewhere, as well as for stocking fillers. We are also lucky to have a loyal customer base who wanted to 'shop local' this Christmas, as well as

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Feedback: Christmas 2015 sending their husbands, children and mothers into our store.

The result was increased sales across the board."

Adds Tilley: "We sold a lot of small gifts at reasonable prices, meaning that we personally were working harder than ever. Our complementary giftwrap service went down a storm and we regularly had to rope in other family members to keep up with demand!"

She highlights that, over the past few years, she and her mother Trudy have bought brand new and exciting stock to put in the windows immediately after Christmas.

"Our customers absolutely love this and just can't help themselves. We found Black Friday had less impact on us this year than it did last year. We don't offer any Black

Christmas Started Earlier

Above: Marmalade Meringue's Christmas window which went in at the beginning of November.

Friday deals so trade continued as normal while Christmas Eve was fabulous and fun! There was lots of Christmas joy and good wishes, and continued shopping throughout the day with us eventually shutting well after our estimated closing time of 4pm."

2016: "We are looking forward to the new year, with new window displays and fresh and exciting stock. In fact, we can't wait to see what's in store for us at Spring Fair. We are constantly striving to succeed and have learnt that our customers love change, so that is what we will continue to do throughout 2016."

"It was a very good Christmas for gifts," confirmed Jan East, md, Hawley Garden Centre in Dartford, Kent. "Winners were definitely glass and crystal.

We also sold more jewellery this year than last year, especially from D&X, and did very well with Christmas decorations from companies that included Premier Decorations and Suntime. Baubles from Vitbics, which have Swarovski crystals, were especially successful. I think people bought them with the idea of building up a collection. We were also pleased to find that Christmas started earlier in late October whereas, in previous years, it has kicked off well into November.

Although we considered whether to do something for Black Friday, we decided that people don't associate the event with garden centres and so we didn't do anything. After Christmas, we held a half price sale for all our giftware in order to clear it, with smaller items going to charity."

2016: "I think it will be a good year. Despite the success of online sales, I still think people prefer to come in and have a look round a garden centre. They come out for the day and tend to buy gifts on impulse."

Above: Hawley Garden Centre.

Average Spend Up

Christmas at The Granite House in Fort William, based in the Highlands and Islands, saw the average spend increase by 15%. A three generation family business, currently owned by Alistair Ness, he says that the festive season was very much the same as the previous year. "Although we don't have an online presence, it didn't impact," confirms Alistair. "The people coming down our high street were still coming down our high street. Where we're based, if you've left it too late for online Above: The Granite House. shopping, you have to shop on the high street and we are the Christmas destination store."

In fact, Christmas kicked-in three weeks beforehand, with Alistair holding his nerve because, with the experience of having been trading for 39 years, he knew it would happen. "Christmas Day was crazy and is still the busiest day. Yankee Candles were an exceptional seller this year," he reveals, "with our customers expressing a preference for the brand. We also carried more clothes stock this year and did well with brands such as Joules and Ness."

As for Black Friday, there was an all day 15% discount for customers. "It happened to coincide with our late night shopping/entertainment night, organised by Town Team, and was a great evening. Black Friday was definitely worth doing."

2016: "We're looking forward to another great year," says Alistair. "I think there will be lots of stay-at-home tourists plus, last summer, we also saw a lot of tourists from China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Malaysia and Thailand, with the Chinese and Japanese tourists arriving throughout the year, with numbers definitely up on previous years."

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Celebrating a decade of making every day beautiful Visit the Portmeirion Group stand at: Spring Fair (Hall 9, E30–F31) Ambiente (Hall 4.1, B16)

www.portmeiriongroup.com +44 (0)1782 744721 Copyright © 2016 Portmeirion Group Limited

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Greats A4 Ticket Booking advert 2016 NEW!!!!_Layout 1 09/12/2015 14:54 Page 1

The only awards that celebrate gift retailing in the uk...

Illustration courtesy of Beefayre www.beefayre.com

Lunchtime Thursday May 5 2016 The Grosvenor House Ballroom Park Lane, London I would like to book………………place(s) at £160 per place + VAT I would like………………table(s) of ten at £1600 per table + VAT I would like………………table(s) of twelve at £1920 per place + VAT I enclose a cheque made payable to Max Publishing Debit my Visa/Mastercard (please delete as necessary) Card No...........................................................................................................

Expiry date........................................................................... Start date.......................................................................... Security code...........................................

Address if different to company address....................................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name................................................................................ Company Address......................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tel............................................................................................................................. Fax.................................................................................................................................... email....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

All bookings must be accompanied with payment. We will be unable to refund any cancellations after 1 May. Tickets and invoice will be sent to you once payment has been received.

Please return this booking form with payment to: Createvents Ltd, 450, Brook Drive Reading Berkshire RG2 6UU Tel: 01183 340085 or by E-mail: clare@createvents.co.uk www.createvents.co.uk

www.thegreatsawards.co.uk

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The Greats 2016

Have You Heard

The Buzz?

For gift retailers and gift departments that have put their all into the shops and online stores over the past 12 months, The Greats Awards 2016 is the perfect opportunity to do a bit of self-trumpeting!

With the Awards already attracting another huge entry, there's still time to tell us why your shop is a winner.

As the 14th year of The Greats unfolds, all eyes are already on the glittering line-up of Greats trophies that recognise and reward every strand of the gift retailing spectrum: from the smallest gift shop in the tiniest village in England, to the major multiples and garden centres, as well as the niche and lifestyle retailers selling jewellery, fashion, accessories and furniture. By popular demand, the closing date has been extended to February 16.

The winners will be announced at a spectacular Awards lunch, which will be taking birds, bees and butterflies as its theme, in the Ballroom of the glittering Grosvenor House hotel on London's Park Lane on Thursday May 5, 2016, The only criteria for entering The Greats is that, over the past 12 months, your gift shop or gift

department has achieved something 'great' to shout about, irrespective of whether it is situated on a high street, secondary site, shopping mall, village or trades online. If you think your shop is great, then we want to hear from you!

We want to know about what you've been doing over the past 12 months, so tell

Above: David Hicks, md, and Lisa Marcuccio, sales manager from Really Good/Soul, sponsors of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year London category, with winner Timothy Duggan-Rees, director of retail, Charles Farris.

Below left: Stephen Senior, ceo of Root Candles Europe, sponsors of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Midlands & Wales category, presented The Greats trophy to Tilley Tebbutt, co-director of Marmalade Meringue in Hinckley.

Bottom: The Greats winners 2015.

us about your marketing initiatives, how good you are at display, and/or how you've expanded or upped the ante on the gift side.

We're delighted to receive selfnominations as well as nominations from suppliers, agents and reps. We know that there's a wealth of talent out there and we want to recognise and reward you!

Plus, as many past Greats winners can testify, winning a Greats Award, or being selected as a finalist, can be a tremendous

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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The Greats 2016

boost to business, with winners over the years proud to confirm some of the positive spin-off impact The Greats can have.

"We can't believe how our customers reacted to our success and the number of customers who have congratulated us!" commented Sara Park-Patterson, manager

Left: John and Paul Jackson of Retro 36 in Scarborough received their Greats trophy from Paul Hooker, commercial director of category sponsor Joe Davies, as winners of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year North & Northern Ireland category.

Below left: Gary Hogan, md of About Living, holds the winning Greats trophy for Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts, which was presented to him by Chis Leonard-Morgan, director of category sponsor the London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week.

Below right: Emma Niven, buyer and director of Loch Leven's Larder, Kinross and Perth, received the coveted Greats trophy for Best Retailer Initiative from Melanie Stack (right), president and general manager EMEA of Yankee Candle Europe, category sponsor. Emma is shown with Katie Gilmour and Emma McCallum.

of Bluestone in Largs, Barrhead and Lochgilphead, winner of last year's Best Gift Retailer of Jewellery & Fashion Accessories category. "Our Facebook 'likes' went up by a few hundred! We were really overwhelmed by the number of lovely comments."

Over in Northern Ireland, owners of The Bottom Drawer in Portadown, Frances Doran and Rhonda Jardine finalists in The Greats 2015 North and Northern Ireland category - were invited to take part in a high profile question and answer panel to discuss their experience and growth in business. The event was organised by The Northern Ireland Assembly, in conjunction with the Further Education Colleges, and was held in the

The Greats Awards Move To Park Lane The Greats Awards have a new home this year. Following two sell-out events, the event has expanded with a move to the fabulous newly revamped Ballroom at Park Lane's swanky Grosvenor House Hotel in London, which simply oozes glitz and glamour!

The Grosvenor House, is already home to high profile Award ceremonies that include the BAFTA Film Awards, Pride of Britain Awards, Q Awards and the Crime Thriller Awards.

Above: A 'stand up/sit down' competition helps to get everyone feeling in a party mood.

Left: The Grosvenor House in Park Lane, the home of The Greats Awards in May.

Greats Sponsors 2016 The current impressive line up of category sponsors of The Greats 2016 include (in alphabetical order): Carrie Elspeth; Carte Blanche Group; Gift Republic; Harrogate Christmas & Gift; Joe Davies; Gisela Graham; i2i Events/Autumn Fair/Spring Fair; Kaemingk; London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week; PG Live; Parlane International; Premier Decorations; Really Good/Soul; Ravensden; Root Candles; Sass & Belle; The Giftware Association; Wild & Wolf; Xystos and Yankee Candle.

prestigious Stormont Estate, Northern Ireland's Government Buildings. "Although we didn't win our category, this didn't detract from the positive effect that being part of the Awards has had on our business," concurred sisters Frances and Rhonda.

In addition, many winners and finalists hit the headlines last year, with others invited to take part in local radio programmes giving the shops a high profile and encouraging footfall.

"The Greats is a terrific platform for talented gift retailers and gift departments to receive recognition for achievement," states Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home. "The competition is easy to enter and the rewards are huge. We are also delighted to receive nominations from across the industry highlighting those extra special gift retailers, large or small, who deserve to see their name on a Greats trophy. " To download an entry form, visit www.thegreatsawards.co.uk Continued on page 41

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The Greats 2016

Best Retail Employee Award What could be lovelier than rewarding employees who treat your shop as their own and go the extra mile for both you and your customers every day? If you've got that 'special someone', a right hand man or woman working in your gift shop or gift department, now's your chance to nominate them for The Greats Best Employee Award.

We want to know more about that person and why he or she stands out. Either download a Greats Best Employee entry form by visiting www.thegreatsawards.co.uk or email your entry direct to Sue Marks at suem@max-publishing.co.uk

£50 Bonus For Gift Independents

Right: Last year's Retail Employee of the Year winner, Mandy Elliot, retail supervisor, Giant’s Causeway, National Trust Ireland, with Angelina Stojsavljevic, marketing manager for Clarion Events’ Home & Gift, Harrogate show, sponsors of the category.

As an extra 'gift', all independent finalists and winners of The Greats 2016 will receive a £50 bonus that can be spent against orders placed at the dedicated PG Live greeting card show, organised by Max Exhibitions, which takes place on May 10-11 at London's Business Design Centre in London's Islington.

For more about PG Live, turn to Destination PG Live on pages 77-79.

You Are Invited...

To Lunch At The Grosvenor House, Park Lane The winners of The Greats 2016 will be announced at a fabulous Greats Awards lunch being held in the Ballroom at London's Grosvenor House on Thursday May 5. (See The Greats Awards Move To Park Lane on page 39).

A glass of champagne will be at the ready as guests arrive at 11.45am, followed by a special Greats lunch, created by one of the hotel's top chefs. Before the winners of the awards are announced, there are sure to be a few giggles thanks to a top line comedian who will be entertaining everyone in true Greats style!

All guests attending the event will also receive a fabulous goody bag bursting with lovely gifts as a going home present.

For tickets, contact event organiser Clare Davies at Createvents on 01183 340085 or e-mail Clare at clare@createvents.co.uk.

Last year's event was a sell-out with a waiting list for tickets, so don't delay!

Left: Every guest will go home with a goody bag.

What Some Of Last Year's Guests Told Us... ● "Thank you so much for a brilliant day

enjoyed by us all, a real treat!" Mandy Elliot, retail supervisor, Giant's Causeway, National Trust Ireland ● "Thank you and the Progressive Gifts team

for another really professional event." Mike Burgess, md of Parlane International ● "Another great event spent with 'great'

people." Julie Andrews, Carte Blanche Greetings ● "A huge thanks to you for once again

organising a fantastic awards ceremony. We had a ball!" Paul Hooker, commercial director of Joe Davies ● "Thank you so much for making us feel so

welcome. It was a wonderful day and here's to next year!" Caroline and Kevin Irons of GiftsMade4u ● Sam Malvern, owner of Inside Out in

Cheltenham: "Dad and I had a fantastic day.

Well done for organising such a great event!" ● "We had such a great time. It was a

fantastic day!" Sara Park-Patterson, manager, Bluestone, Glasgow

The Greats Supplier's Award While The Greats is dedicated to recognising and rewarding gift retailers, the awards also set out to highlight those special companies who provide exceptional service for their customers, with three separate awards - gold, silver and bronze - to be won.

To nominate your favourite suppliers, visit www.thegreatsawards.co.uk and download an entry form or e-mail ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

Left: There was huge excitement from the Joe Davies team as they accepted the Gold Best Service Award from Simon Boyd (right), show director of category sponsor Progressive Greetings Live.

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Industry Issue: The Enconomy

The Year

Ahead

The world has entered a new year with ructions in China, a plunging FTSE 100, the possibility of interest rates going up, and indecision over with Britain should or shouldn't come out of the EU. PG&H asked stalwarts in the gift industry - both suppliers and retailers - for their views on what is likely to impact on the gifts sector this year.

It's All About Innovation "It’s easy to think it’s going to be a tough year for retailers and suppliers alike, given the whole pot pourri of national and international, political and economic issues to contend with," says Jon Cameron, md of Wild and Wolf, "but on reflection, when, in the last 10 years, did the start of a year not feel like that? We have then gone on to have a successful year's growth, so let’s be optimistic. Rather than worry about the oil price or ‘EU in or out’ let's think about product innovation or visual merchandising - things you can affect.

“There are now a lot of suppliers and retailers selling increasingly similar products to a market that probably can’t sustain that amount of supply, so there may be tough times ahead for some. Growth will be proportional to how much we all innovate and differentiate ourselves from other suppliers and retailers."

Above: Will we see a cautious consumer again this year?

Weather Woes Rolf Lang of Richard Lang & Son, says that with no real summer, and the wettest December, on record many of the company's customers suffered difficult trading last year, particularly those in country areas. "However, I feel sure that the recent falls in fuel prices will encourage consumers to use their cars more and head for the countryside this year," he predicts. "Can we please order a proper summer for 2016!"

Cautious Optimism "2016 might be a good one. I feel at least the odds are that it won't be a bad one!" says Piers Croke, sales director at Gisela Graham. "But as Mr Osborne reminds us, there us some clouds on the horizon. The strength of the dollar and the weakness of the renminbi is one.

Conceivably, the latter is going to cancel out the former. I certainly hope so! Oil prices are going to stay low and that's a good thing for all of us - unless you're an oil producer!

“I'm betting interest rates are not going up in the UK this year - helpful for our trade anyway, if not for savers. My biggest anxiety is a 'No' vote in the EU referendum if it happens this year. That will surely mean weaker sterling and higher import costs in the short term. But one should never underestimate human ingenuity. The gift trade, since The Big Crash of 2008, has shown remarkable resilience and is more innovative than ever. All in all I'm cautiously optimistic for our trade in 2016."

Above right: Lower fuel prices will leave people with more disposable income.

Left: The dollar is currently strong while the renminbi is weak.

Business Is Challenging "The economy is reported to be growing, with talk of a Northern Powerhouse that could begin to rival that of London and the South East, but I think business will still be challenging," says Stephen Senior, ceo of Root Candles. "It's being said that people have more money to spend, but whether people feel that or not is hard to say. Retailers and suppliers will need to be innovative and pro-active. In business, the more you have your finger on the pulse of everyone in the chain, the more successful you will be because you will be able to respond to demands more easily. It's about working from the ground upwards."

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Industry Issue: The Enconomy

Survival Of The Fittest "There's quite a lot of spin about the UK being out of the s**t and being a successful economy again. I don't see or hear this in terms of gift retail, or in fact most retail," states David Hicks, md of Really Good/Soul.

"Rents and rates still are not helpful, and the canny customer will happily buy in the sales or wherever they can get the best price from.

Meanwhile, we are still buying from China and paying in USD, which is stacked against us with the pretty awful exchange rates.

Furthermore, buying from China isn't cheap anyway. The Chinese assume that we're made of money, and they want it! So, what does this mean? Well, to be honest, it means the same as it always has; that the strongest will survive, and others will struggle or disappear. Nothing has changed except the margins are more difficult to achieve."

Continues David: "For us, we are focused on designing the best product we can, negotiating with the Chinese the best we can, and supplying our customers and consumers with the most original and best quality product we can. We have invested heavily in our future, and even have our own employed sales force now. To stay where we were in just publishing cards would have been suicidal. But to branch out as much as we have is not exactly risk free.

However, we're very positive about the future. We're two years into a five year plan. We've learnt some lessons for sure, but we think we're getting better all the time. And if we're good at what we do, and in fact, everyone who designs and produces gifts is the best they can be, then the market is better and stronger for it.

"Competition is both healthy and a tad annoying at times," adds David, "but luckily we still have original thought about our design. Nobody can afford to be the same as others, so brands we will need to continue to build and be distinctive, and that's a problem we share with retailers."

Quietly Positive "I feel quite bullish about 2016," says Laurence White, director, White Brand Agency. "We're seeing increasing numbers of retail customers from across the UK happy to invest in higher quality branded homewares. There does seem to be a movement towards good design and long lasting quality so I’m quietly positive for our slice of the industry."

From A Retailer's Perspective

Quality Comes First "Our focus this year is on quality - doing fewer things better," says Oliver Tress, md of Oliver Bonas. "We want people to be enjoying our products for years to come, so that means products that are well designed both aesthetically and in terms of functionality. To really elevate the customer experience, we want to take the product to a new level. Sometimes challenging our customer, but certainly keeping pace with what we believe are increasingly discerning and sophisticated consumers. We enjoy the challenge of innovating to maintain our point of difference and keep our distance from our many competitors."

Oliver adds that, alongside this, the company will be putting more resources into elevating the store and the online experience. "We believe that if we can design desirable products, put them into an inspiring environment, and give amazing service, our business will continue to thrive, and we’ll have fun along the way. As always, this means investing in people, so that we that can deliver on our objectives."

Above: Oliver Bonas in York.

A Healthy Recovery "All signs for 2016 are pointing towards a continued and healthy recovery of the UK economy, albeit at a slower rate than most of us would wish for," comments Stuart Illingworth, md of Widdop and Co. "Lower fuel prices and historically low interest rates, combined with a gentle increase in salaries, should increase consumer demand. The globalisation of the world’s economy means that a sneeze in China can have massive repercussions right across the world.

The predicted slowdown in China’s economy for 2016 will undoubtedly result in the loss of demand for western manufactured goods, which might have a knock on effect on the UK economy. However, weaker demand in China will make the slightly overheated economy keep costs lower, which will balance against the recent fall in the UK Pound against the US Dollar."

Stuart says that consumers continue to look for great value, hunting out the best deals both on and off line with events such as Black Friday fuelling the fire. "The fine balance between bricks and mortar and online will continue to be a challenge, but those that change and embrace this I believe will fare well. Product design and innovation are King. The maxim 'innovate or die' has never been truer."

Above: Will the EU referendum take place this year?

Right: Homeowners are getting ready for interest rate rises, while savers will see their pot go down.

Going For Growth “At Tiger, we have experienced good growth across all the product categories, says Emma Bier, Tiger's design & marketing manager. "Although in general, retail online shopping is gathering pace, we plan on opening a further six to eight stores in London and the South East. We are very much about the shopping in store experience where customers can see the fortnightly changing selection of our products, a more touchy feely approach."

In 2016, she says that Tiger will be concentrating on own designed and branded items, with an emphasis on offering unique, relevant and surprising household, stationery and toy products.

"We definitely need to keep the magic!" states Emma.

Above: Tiger will be expanding on both the retail and product front.

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Spring Fair: NEC 40th Anniversary

Ah Yes, I Remember It Well Top: The NEC in Birmingham was built on a farm.

Right: Sir Edward Heath, who was Prime Minister in 1973, turned the first sod of earth.

On February 2, 1976, HM The Queen arrived to open the much fanfared National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham - the UK's first ever purpose-built exhibition centre.

For the home and gift industry, International Spring Fair (as it was then known) had the distinction of being the very first exhibition to open its doors, with most people in the 'fancy goods' industry remembering the day as much for the fact that the food ran out as for the union problems and the parking difficulties.

As Spring Fair celebrates its 40th year at the venue, which has seen an initial five halls expand to 20 over the years, PG&H indulges in a bit of unashamed nostalgia with those who were there at that first, historic show.

Left and below left: Elkan Simons was honoured to take HM The Queen on a tour of the first ever Spring Fair at the NEC. Below: 1976 was the year Concorde took flight.

Visit By Her Majesty Of all the people who were at the very first Spring Fair at the NEC in 1976, perhaps David Simons, currently chairman of the British Jewellery Giftware & Finishing Federation Benevolent Society, can claim to have been the closest to it. At the time, his father, Elkan Simons, was chairman of Trade Promotion Services, (TPS), a company he had formed in the late 1950's, which owned Spring Fair. (TPS was subsequently sold to EMAP, and then to i2i Events Group which currently owns the show). Percy Sweetser, secretary of the Fancy Goods Association, was the first show organiser.

"It was my father, who had the distinction of taking

HM the Queen and HRH Prince Philip on a tour of the show," recalls David. "The Mayor of Birmingham was there too, as well as other important dignitaries to include the chairman of the NEC. It really was a very memorable occasion."

David's family's company, Simons (Bros), founded by his father Elkan, was also an exhibitor, with a young David

on the stand in Hall 3. "The procession swept along the aisles, and I remember quickly moving out of the way to let it pass.

It was a really wonderful occasion, as a milestone had been reached, although noone knew how it would all turn out."

Some 80,000 people attended that first show, with BBC radio presenter Jimmy Young advising people on his programme to avoid the M6 as it was solid with traffic, and BBC 1’s Pebble Mill carring a news item.

David particularly remembers the last day of the show. "It was always a 'trade only'

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Spring Fair: NEC 40th Anniversary show, but members of the public somehow managed to get in!” he recalls.

Exhibition stands, of course, were very different to the stands at the show today, and were basically just shells. "Now stands are very sophisticated and professional, with companies spending money on them," comments David.

Something else he clearly remembers is the food running out. "After noon on the first day, which was a Sunday, you couldn't buy a packet of crisps!"

Then there were union problems.

Recalls David: "In 1976, due to the fact that the NEC was unionised, an exhibitor was not allowed to lift a paintbrush or put down a carpet tile!"

1976: Major Events 21 January 1 February 19 February 16 March 26 March 3 April

The first commercial Concorde flight took off.

John Curry became Britain's first gold medallist in skating at the Winter Olympics.

Iceland broke off diplomatic relations with Britain over the Cold War. Harold Wilson announced his resignation as Prime Minister.

Anita Roddick opened the first branch of The Body Shop in Brighton.

The UK won the Eurovision Song Contest with Save Your Kisses for Me, sung

by Brotherhood of Man. 5 April James Callaghan became Prime Minister.

22 June -16 July The heatwave reaches its peak with the temperature reaching 26.7°C (80°F) each day during this period.

14 July Ford launched the Fiesta.

29 July Fire destroyed the pier head at Southend Pier.

5 August Big Ben suffered internal damage and stopped running for over nine months.

4 October InterCity 125 trains were introduced on British Rail between London and Bristol.

Left: The first Body Shop opened its doors.

Below left: David Metcalfe.

Below: James Callaghan became PM. Below right: Mike Burgess.

Bottom: The Ford Fiesta was launched.

Then And Now In 1976, David Metcalfe - who went on to become md of Trade Promotion Services (TPS) and Spring Fair in 1988 (under EMAP), and is currently a consultant for Spring Fair and Autumn Fair - was at the show working for the trade magazine Tableware International.

"We had a small stand in the entrance of Hall 1," explains David. "I sold advertising space so I was able to move around the show. To understand the full significance of the arrival of the NEC, it has to be remembered that the UK did not have a purpose-built exhibition centre at all - only Olympia and Earl's Court in London - and they were full occupied with consumer events. West Germany, by contrast, had built an international standard exhibition centre in every one of its major cities after the war."

Explains David: "Before the NEC opened, the predecessor of International Spring Fair was the Gifts and Fancy Goods Fair held in a series of makeshift venues around Blackpool, including a multistorey car park, some hotels and an amusement arcade. It can be seen, therefore, that the move to the brand new NEC was something of a culture shock," he highlights.

He says that this was reinforced by the fact that the facility itself wasn't really fully completed. "The heating was erratic, the roads weren't finished, and the car parks weren't surfaced. The result was that people arrived with muddy shoes, confused with the unfamiliar surroundings. Plus, we had snow that year. On top of everything, the restaurants closed at midday for the staff to have their lunch!"

David also points out that many of the things that we now take for granted weren't in place. "Due to the space restrictions, editing and product arrangement hardly existed at all. Hall 1 was china and glass, with the major British manufacturers at the front, and importers at the back. Hall 5 was giftware and smokers' requisites and resembled a jumble sale. Hall 2 was stationery, cards, some jewellery and clocks and watches. Hall 3 was the hardware show with the tenancy shared. Hall 4 was everything else. Many of the product categories that we have today, such as Christmas decorations, did not exist as such then. Signage was basic, and there was no attempt to qualify visitors as everyone paid £5 and got a badge saying 'buyer', so nobody really knew how many visitors that there were."

As for the Royal visit, even that had its downside. "When Her Majesty arrived officially to open the NEC, all the halls emptied and nobody did any business for some hours," he states. "This is why subsequent organisers, including me, have been reluctant to have official opening ceremonies."

Bird's Eye View

Mike Burgess, md of Parlane International, is among those in the gift and home industry who have never missed a show at the NEC. "I have been at every Spring Fair and did a lot of Blackpool fairs before that," states Mike. "At the very first Spring Fair in 1976, I was, in fact, a retail buyer, buying for our family business, Charles Thursfield in Alderley Edge, Cheshire, and also for J&M Wilcox in Leamington Spa," he explains.

"My first wife was also at the fair with me. She was eight months pregnant with our son and because of my wife's condition, we managed to park our car almost at the front door of the Piazza entrance. It was there all day, even though the Queen was arriving for the opening of the NEC, so, of course, we had a bird's eye view of the Royal party!"

Continued on page 53

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Spring Fair: NEC 40th Anniversary

Bright And New

Hot Hits

"The size and the scale of the first Spring Fair was what impressed those first exhibitors at the show," says Stuart Illingworth, md of Widdop Bingham, who was a teenage university student at the time. Although Stuart wasn't at the show, his father, Bob Illingworth, and two of the company's retired reps, Cliff Dalziel, and his father, Fred Dalziel, shared their memories with him.

"Apparently, parking provision was rudimentary with no signage which meant that finding your vehicle at the end of the show proved Above: Stuart Illingworth. difficult for a lot of the exhibitors and visitors," relays Stuart. "Widdop Bingham was in Hall 4 and our stand size was 60 sq metres, manned by six members of staff.

By way of comparison, at Spring Fair in 2016, the Widdop stand will be 400 square metres and will have 40 members of staff working on the busiest days of the show."

He says that the company's products at the time could best summed up as 'fancy goods'. "We had Stratton of Mayfair which was in its heyday, which we acquired in 2013.

We also showcased Oneida cutlery - Queen Ann silver plated gifts such as candelabra and gallery trays - Westclox alarm clocks and Big Ben clocks, as well as Ianthe from Ian Heath, which included silver plated cruet sets and teapots, which were highly sought after lines."

Stuart concurs that the opening of the NEC by the Queen was clearly a highlight for many of the exhibitors and the organisers. "Her appearance clearly indicated just how important the role of this building was to be within the UK’s exhibition scene."

Huge Success

Dunoon director Peter Smith was a student in 1976, but remembers the first Spring Fair at the NEC as being really important for the company. "At the time, we were only two years old as a business, but we'd developed a high-fired rustic glazed stoneware range of mugs that just took off. I remember the show being a great success and my dad, Gordon, being delighted!"

Peter says that the exhibition did a terrific job of promoting the Dunoon name.

"We exhibited under the umbrella of the HIDB (Highlands and Islands Development Board). As we were originally a Scottish company we, along with some five other Scottish companies, shared a stand in Hall 1. I remember that we had no power and no lights when the exhibition opened because, the day before, our designer had put up a poster.

As he'd used a hammer we'd been blacklisted by the union, as the NEC was heavily unionised at the time!"

"Our first impression of the NEC was of an enormous space so very different to the multistorey car park which was the very cold Blackpool venue the February before," says Geoff Williams, co-owner of The Tokenhouse in Nottingham with his wife Diz. "The weather was snow flurries which have punctuated shows ever since. We had to park on the unfinished motorway and be bussed in as not all the car parks were ready."

Recollects Geoff: "We were looking, as we do now, to test product ranges for the year.

However, it was much more obvious then who to buy from as the show was ‘only’ five halls.

Among the 'hot' products were Hunkydory you could have stocked a complete shop - Sari fabrics (remember those cat tea cosies?), Pat Albeck’s designs of lavender bags and coathangers for Cuckoobird, Elgin Court and Gallery 5 which were all strong for us. We also remember selling posters. Whatever happened to that market?"

Geoff says that products seemed to fit into styles of shop. "Now, many outlets, and even supermarkets, sell products we could once have called our own," he reflects.

For Geoff and Diz, the high spot of the first show was how bright and new it all was, with aisle after aisle of products to choose from. "In that first year, we thought it was so big. Little did we know how much bigger it would get!"

Below: Geoff and Diz Williams, co-owners of The Tokenhouse in Nottingham.

Above: Peter Smith, director, Dunoon.

Right: Dunoon's Arran Iona stoneware mugs which were a big hit for the company.

Quite Revolutionary

Ronnie Pavey (below), chairman of Lesser & Pavey, emphasises that the company is one of the few that has exhibited at every Spring and Autumn Fair at the NEC. "We're delighted to see how Spring Fair has blossomed and grown to be recognised internationally, attracting international buyers," he states.

"Although Blackpool, where Spring Fair was previously held, was very sociable and fun, with many stories to be told, it was not easy, as we were spread out over numerous hotels, based in hotel rooms with towels over sinks so that we could display products in all spaces available. So the move to the NEC was met with great enthusiasm as, for once, we were to be under one roof making the event much easier to operate for exhibitors and buyers.

However, because Birmingham was more central, some buyers were able to come for the day, so the social aspect somewhat disappeared. But those that stayed were spread out in hotels in and around Birmingham. This was a whole new experience. We all arrived by car with ample parking, and thought it was a vast improvement by contrast to showing in bedrooms. It was quite revolutionary. It was obviously more expensive than hotel rooms, but affordable, while allowing all the products to be displayed in one area. It made the event more comparable to Frankfurt. But the stands were nothing like today's, with virtually all having just a shell scheme."

Absolutely Freezing

"My first impression of the NEC was that, as a purpose-built exhibition centre, it bore absolutely no resemblance to the car park in Blackpool where Spring Fair had previously been held!" comments gift agent Mark Devery (below). "There was no heating and I have never been so cold in my life! Plus, the weather was dreadful.

Cars were spinning round, and we were only allowed into the car park one car at time. In addition, I remember the first day of the show being utter chaos.

However, since that first show, I have attended every single Spring and Autumn Fair staying until 4pm each day for the duration. The only exception was when my wife was unwell and we had to leave on the Thursday morning."

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Retailer Face To Face: John Lewis

Getting Engaged John Lewis is continuing to go from strength to strength, building on its omni-channel offer, opening a flagship store in Birmingham, expanding in both the UK and Europe and engaging with its customers as never before.

So where are the growth areas in giftware and home fragrancing? What's trending? How does own brand fit into the product mix?

These were just a few of the questions PG&H put to Sara Allbright, the store's buyer for Home and Gift Collections and Candleshop.

Having worked at John Lewis since she graduated from Birmingham University in 2001 with a degree in textile design, Sara Allbright has certainly moved up the ranks.

She started out in lampshades and bases, moving to Living and Dining furniture, followed by the Christmas shop, stationery, gift food, wall decor and currently the gift and home and Candleshop department where she has held the role of buyer for the past two years.

Sara Loves...

Aside from John Lewis, another favourite shop of Sara's is Anthropologie. "It's very 'me', how I live and how my flat looks. I also love American retailer Williams Sanoma/The Pottery Barn," she adds.

"But interesting things are happening in the UK retail market places too, most notably the Scandinavian element that has crept in, with the growth of Tiger for example. It's changing the high street and mixing things up."

She also highlights online retailer notonthehighstreet in terms of the influence it has had had on personalisation and gifts per se. "There are some great brands, especially in terms of start up companies and people who are making products in the UK, many of whom we are lucky to work with at John Lewis."

"It's all been very fast paced," she admits, "and because the job evolves all the time it keeps it very fresh." Currently, her remit spans not only home and gift, but puzzles and games, home fragrancing and gift experiences such as Red Letter Days, with one of the most exciting aspects of her day - ("no two are the same, it's hugely varied," she emphasises) - seeing how customers have reacted to the products that she and her team of four - two assistant buyers and two buying assistants - have selected. "There are so many facets to buying and the ultimate test is when all the work comes to fruition and people are reacting well," she enthuses.

So who, exactly, is today's John Lewis customer? "There is more of a balance between male and female than most people expect, partly due to our strength in electronics," confirms Sara. "We feature a more trend driven offer, with customers shopping for quality and value. It's not always about the cheapest prices," she points out. "People shop with us to find something unique or exclusive and know that if they are buying a gift for example, their gift won't be the same as someone else's."

Own brand is clearly a growth area for the company with the reach stretching to gifts, home accessories and home fragrancing. In fact, the nation's favourite

Above: Sara Allbright, John Lewis' buyer for home and gift collections/candleshop, was presented with The Greats Best Department Store Retailer of Gifts category at The Greats last May by Stefan Koldeweij, Kaemingk's senior account manager for the UK & Ireland, and category sponsor.

Inset: The exterior of the new John Lewis store at Grand Central, New Street, Birmingham.

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For the very best in housewares, tableware and small appliances ADDIS HOUSEWARES AEROLATTE AMEFA ANNIVERSARY HOUSE APOLLO HOUSEWARES ARTHUR PRICE AUTEUR AYDYA CHARLES BENTLEY & SON BERGHOFF WORLDWIDE BHL GROUP BLACK + BLUM BODUM BOSKA CHEESEWARES BRABANTIA BRITA BURTON MCCALL CHARLES VIANCIN CITY LOOK IMPORTS COOKWARE CO COUNTRY MATTERS CREATIVE PRODUCTS CROWN TRENT CULINARY CONCEPTS CURVER DAVID MASON DESIGN DENBY BRANDS DKB HOUSEHOLD DNC THE DRH COLLECTION DUBOST COLAS PRADEL EATON HOME & DINING E-CLOTH ECOEGG EDDINGTONS ELIA EMILE HENRY EUROPASONIC FAIRMONT & MAIN FALCON PRODUCTS FISKARS FOSSEWAY TRADING

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And don’t forget to visit Exclusively Electrical, our sister show running alongside Exclusively Housewares ARZUM ELEKTRIKLI BEURER BRABANTIA APPLIANCES DUALIT EPE INTERNATIONAL EUROPASONIC GROUPE SEB

JURA PRODUCTS KALORIK KITCHENAID MAGIMIX MEYER RKW SAGE APPLIANCES

SMART WORLDWIDE SMARTWARES EUROPE TEAM UKI ULTIMATE VITA-MIX EUROPE WITT

For more information on the show take a look at www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or call 0121 237 1130 056_GH_February 2016.indd 56

Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

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Retailer Face To Face: John Lewis

"There was talk that technology would be the end of shops, but they still remain valid for creating inspiration and energy." retailer is actively looking to develop more products that are exclusive to the store, with the in-house design studio tasked to stretch the design credentials of the ranges.

Products are sourced from many different countries (including India, Vietnam and China), with Sara personally making two sourcing trips a year. She says it's difficult to put a figure on how much of what the stores sell is own brand, as it varies from store to store, but a ball park figure could be around 15% (although this only refers to own brand within Sara's buying office, and not for John Lewis as a whole).

"However, we are nevertheless very aware that one of our biggest strengths lies in our brands and licenced products, so we are continuing to operate within the realm of, for example, Ted Baker, Orla Kiely, Sophie Allport and, more recently, House of Hackney," continues Sara. "All these designers offer something different, which enables us to offer our customers more choice across the board, to include gift, home and home fragrancing."

From Sara's perspective, what she and her team expertly select for home and gift has to fit in with the key 'looks' for the season, enabling customers

John Lewis: The Lowdown

● John Lewis currently has 32 department stores and 12 John Lewis At Home stores, plus shops at St Pancras International station and Heathrow Terminal 2. ● johnlewis.com is consistently ranked one of the top online shopping destinations in the UK. ● The company has its own sourcing office in Delhi staffed by John Lewis Partners.

to buy into that specific 'look' across all departments.

Currently trending is the opulent Boutique Hotel, launched for A/W 15; Fusion, where textures and colours take inspiration from global travel, and Country, reflecting soft, pretty florals.

"Spring will also see a resurgence of Coastal, where we will be taking the theme in a new direction, well away from beach huts," Sara smiles. In addition, she highlights that there is also a trend for location giftware, with Sara and her team working closely with the Cardiff store on a range of Welsh language textiles from local producers, and going down a similar route with the John Lewis stores in Scotland.

One of the strongest sectors for Sara's department is home fragrancing, with reed diffusers outselling candles.

"The sector is a runaway success with growth year on year," Sara states."Buying a scented candle makes people feel better, and we have an endless choice of new brands and innovative product on offer, such as the new generation of ultrasonic diffusers. Suppliers are encouraged to come in and do demos for customers who tend to be among early technology adopters."

Top: madebyzen Bloom ultrasonic aroma diffuser.

Above right: The Big Potato Obama Llama game.

Left: Ted Baker’s Shadow floral travel set.

Sara Allbright: The Lowdown

● Sara Allbright joined John Lewis 15 years ago. "Being a buyer combines creativity with strategic thinking which I love," she states. ● A John Lewis initiative she really enjoys is Helping Hands, which asks staff to volunteer two days of their time to work in a branch of their choice. "I love being on the shopfloor, doing till work, shelf filling and interacting with customers. People often nail things on the head so the feedback is very valuable."

Also leading the field are puzzles and games, where again, in-store demos encourage customers to connect with the products. "While at one end of the spectrum we have started to work with high end gadget company Red 5, we are also selling thousands of selfie sticks, with social media trends continuing to have an enormous influence," she highlights. "There are always board games being demonstrated, especially those that are new to the market, such as Obama Llama, Mr Lister and Qwordie. It all helps to create a fun, in store atmosphere."

Examples of how Sara feels that she has put her own stamp on gift and home include bringing new products to the fore by partnering with the right companies, and by initiating product demonstrations.

As for the rise and rise in omini-channel retailing, while Sara agrees that a lot of purchases are mobile phone related, she's quick to emphasise

Meet The Buyers Days

A successful recent initiative has been Meet The Buyers Days in conjunction with The Giftware Association, with more in the pipeline for 2016. "Several companies who have presented to us are now stocked by John Lewis to include Branche D'Olive and Two's Company," Sara confirms.

that people are still shopping in store. "There was talk that technology would be the end of shops, but they still remain valid for creating inspiration and energy."

Her personal vision for gifts and home at John Lewis is that customers will find gifts they want to give throughout the year, without specifically waiting for special occasions to buy them. "I'm a huge gift giver, and that's how I buy my gifts, so I want our customers to feel the same. I want people to feel that if they do their gift shopping at John Lewis they will always find something that appeals."

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Spring Fair 2016 Hall 6 Stand P56

Beautiful Lifestyle Giftware

Home and garden gifting inspired by iconic British designs

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018_GH_February 2016.indd 18

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BRIGHT

Young

Take 3

THINGS

As a new year unfolds, PG&H take a look at a trio of 'ones to watch' in gifts and home - three women who are rapidly establishing themselves as stars in the industry.

So how did they start, what has propelled them to success and in what exciting directions will they be heading during 2016?

Meet Hannah Dale (Wrendale Designs), Heather Flynn (Happy Jackson and Alice Scott) and Katie Loxton (Joma Jewellery).

Hannah Dale, wildlife artist and founder of Wrendale Designs Hannah Dale, a Cambridge Zoology graduate, and former London stockbroker, is the multi-award-winning artist founder and director of Wrendale Designs, a company that began life just four years ago in 2012 on a kitchen table in Melton Ross, Lincolnshire.

W

ith a young baby in tow, Hannah found herself inspired by the countryside and the wildlife around her in the Lincolnshire wolds, and now works with her husband Jack and a team of people who deal with orders from around the world, enabling Hannah to focus on her passion, the artwork.

"I started off painting hares which were an immediate success, and spurred on by this, I expanded my repertoire and began

painting foxes, pheasants, geese, dogs and hens," Hannah explains.

"When I first decided to try and draw on my creativity to earn some extra money I was selling children’s nursery paintings through local shops. One of the shop owners saw some of my hare paintings and immediately thought that she could sell them in her shop.

The response was amazing and it was she who suggested I turn some of the images into cards. It was like a light bulb moment the more I looked into it, the more I realised that it was the perfect business for me, so it was definitely a turning point."

Wrendale cards are now in shops all over the world, and four years ago, Hannah also forged a very successful collaboration with Portmeirion Group, with her designs featuring on a range of mugs, textiles and melamine items. "Portmeirion approached me on my second ever trade show and initially licensed six designs for six Royal Worcester mugs. They tentatively launched them at Spring Fair 2013 and we were told that they had never had such a response to six mugs! On the strength of that, the range has expanded and now includes many other ceramics, textiles and kitchenware. It's a true collaboration in terms of the design and the direction we are taking the brand."

But that's not all. She has also launched stationery, and produced exclusive products for National

Above: Four of Hannah's Royal Worcester mugs for Portmeirion Group.

Inset: Wildlife artist Hannah Dale.

Trust; tinware has been launched in the States, and in Autumn 2015, Hannah added two books, Mr Hare’s Big Secret, a picture book for young children, and Flying the Nest, a coffee table follow-up to her first book The Country Set. So what else is on the drawing board?

"There are lots of things in the pipeline with Portmeirion and we are both very excited about the future projects," confirms Hannah.

"I have also just been working on a brand new children’s range - it’s quite a different direction for us - but I’m really excited about that too. Plus, over the next 12 months, we have plans to develop the range further into giftware, and are progressing with a melamine gift set aimed at children.

However, our key focus is developing our own giftware. We have launched a very successful tinware range and my next project is a home furnishings collection, to include fabrics and wallpapers."

Admits Hannah: "We never imagined in our wildest dreams that Wrendale would take off so quickly. We still pinch ourselves when we see window displays of our products in shops. It's such a thrill and a great privilege.

I feel so lucky that I am able to make a living from my art. I still can’t believe that I can spend all day painting and call it a job!"

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Take 3

Heather Flynn, co-creator of Happy Jackson and creator of Alice Scott It's 15 years since Heather Flynn graduated in printed textiles with every intention of looking for a job in fabric design. But when greeting card publisher UKG approached her at the graduate New Designers show where she was exhibiting, it was the catalyst that changed her career path and has led her to be the creator of two brands that are making their presence felt in the gift and greeting card arena.

H

aving got a taste for greeting cards during a three month stint at UKG, Heather took a job at Hallmark, where, in her first week, she was introduced to Giles Andreae, Purple Ronnie's creator. They went on to work together for many years, with Heather designing exclusive ranges for the brand.

Then, six years ago, Heather took the plunge to set up her own business, meeting up with Giles early on. "It was then that he sowed the seed that we should do something jointly, so I put together some rough concepts for Happy Jackson”, Heather explains.

Armed with a few sample ideas of how Happy Jackson could be translated onto products, Heather and Giles visited Spring Fair. "Wild and Wolf immediately got the

Top: Heather Flynn.

Above and inset: A selection of Happy Jackson giftware.

60

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

joyous, exuberant, fun essence of the brand which is so evident in how they have helped us to drive the product range,” continues Heather.

With greeting cards under licence from Pigment, gift bags from Penny Kennedy, tins from Elite, a new range of toiletries in Boots through H&A, and a strong following on social media, Happy Jackson is continuing to go from strength to strength.

"From the beginning, I felt pretty confident the brand had a great look and concept, but the speed it's grown at has been quite a surprise," she states. "We work across such a broad range of categories now, and I certainly didn't imagine I'd be designing chocolates in the morning and lip balms in the afternoon when we first started out! We had a strong launch of exclusive gift, beauty and toiletries in Boots last year, so we'll be building on that with a whole new collection this year. In addition, we're really excited to be launching all new gift ranges for babies and pets. They're ideas we've had on the drawing board for a long time, so it's been exciting and very cute to see them come to life."

She says the one area they haven't cracked yet is apparel and fashion accessories. "However, we're working on a stack of great looks for this category that we know would make an awesome range!" she adds.

Alongside Happy Jackson, Heather is kept busy developing her other award winning creation – Alice Scott. Picking up two Henries in two years, plus a National Stationery Award in NYC, the brand continues to grow apace, with its quirky black and white style now licensed on to cards, giftwrap, stationery, mugs and tin.

Heather says what she loves most about her job is working with some lovely people and the variety that comes with working across so many categories. "I started out in cards and giftwrap, so working on products that have multiple considerations like construction, finish, scent and flavour is a great opportunity to extend my design ideas and add personality to a product at each level. Getting all those aspects to work together, and seeing the final product samples come in, ready to hit the shops, is easily the most rewarding part of my job."

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Take 3

Katie Loxton, creative director, Joma Jewellery Katie Loxton, founder and creative director of Joma Jewellery, is probably best known for the company's 'a little' range of sentiment carded bracelets.

She launched the business with her husband Geoff Loxton in the Spring of 2008 with a vision to create "timeless, beautiful jewellery" that was high quality but also affordable.

“W

e went travelling through the Far East after university when we were 21 and 22, a mix of travelling and looking for business opportunities along the way," explains Katie. "When we discovered the most beautiful semi-precious stones, we designed a handful of turquoise and quartz pieces at a small market stand which we put in our backpacks. They later became our first ever Joma Jewellery pieces."

For about three years, it was just Katie and Geoff working from their small flat, surrounded by boxes packed to the ceiling. "I spent the days driving, selling to our stockists and the nights stringing jewellery," she recalls.

"At the very beginning we were working with sterling silver but then, an almost overnight change in the market increased our prices dramatically, forcing us to look at changing. It was then that we decided to

Top: Katie Loxton.

Right: New from Joma Jewellery.

Inset: New for 2016 are reed diffusers, part of the new Katie Loxton collection.

completely focus on the wholesale market and make a complete change to creating high quality costume jewellery specifically for the gifting market, but still working with semi-precious stones, pearls and crystals."

A turning point came when Katie and Geoff started working with sales agents. "It allowed us to really start concentrating on the business more and developing our product lines," Katie continues. "From that point on, the company has grown at an incredible rate. Now our focus is on delivering the strongest collections we can every season and developing the brand across Europe. Both Geoff and I are incredibly ambitious. We both had a really clear vision that we wanted to grow Joma Jewellery into a leading gifting jewellery brand from the very beginning."

She says that it's been the most amazing journey she and Geoff could ever have imagined, with the next 12 months looking very exciting for the company.

"We have just launched our new brand, Katie Loxton, as we felt that

there was a huge potential to create a gifting brand that made luxury accessible and affordable. Our initial collection of scented candles pouches and scarves have been a huge success and our debut collection of handbags is launching in Spring/Summer along with reed diffusers, clutch bags and make-up bags."

Adds Katie: "Our vision is to continue entering into new categories to create beautiful gifts at strong price points."

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7 - 11 February : NEC Spring Fair International, Birmingham - Hall 4 Stand C10-D11 17 - 20 July : Home & Gift, Harrogate - Hall DP 1 Stand 23 060_GH_February 2016.indd 60

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TRENDS: BLUSH

First Blush Of Spring As London's Top Drawer show revealed in January, Pantone Blush is one of the top trending colour palettes this year, with suppliers thinking shades of pink - from Barbie through to LadurĂŠe macaroons - when it comes to gifts, homes, fashions and accessories.

PG&H spared no blushes in asking gift suppliers how they will be tapping into the trend this year.

Left: Pink is the colour for Abigail Warner's cards and stationery.

Right: Sitting pretty, a striking, pink striped cushion from Rolfe & Willis also includes a trendy geometric design.

Below right: In the pink, two Sue Ure Ceramics' vases in a calamine hue.

Left: Three natural Blush beeswax candles from Root Candles.

Right: A Peony reed diffuser from Ashleigh & Burwood.

Below: Lavia and Belle's pink necklace includes silver hearts and stars.

Below: A pink Sherbert Fizz champagne flute from Boxer Gifts, which features sparkly diamante embellishments.

Above: A Malawi vase and pink poppies from Parlane International.

Left: Carrie Elspeth's Blush satin hearts bracelet reflects the trend.

Far left: Hand and nail cream are among the items in Heathcote and Ivory's new Blush Rose bath and body collection.

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Spode’s 200th Anniversary

Back To The

Future

2016 is a historic year - not just for Spode's enigmatic, classic Blue Italian tableware, which is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year - but for Portmeirion Group.

The company bought the Spode brand in 2009 and will be rolling out two exciting new collections this Spring - a signature collection inspired by genuine archive pieces, and a new Giallo range which features a modern re-interpretation of the Blue Italian design first launched in 1816 and in production ever since.

PG&H took a privileged, early peek at the products that will be taking Blue Italian into a new era and to a new audience, with sales and marketing director Phil Atherton explaining the concept behind the new designs.

It's a question that has been perplexing historians, academics, Spode collectors, curators and researchers around the world for 200 years. Exactly where did the Blue Italian design originate from in 1816, in the midst of Britain's Industrial Revolution?

The most widely held theory is that the central scene depicts ruins in Italy, possibly in Rome or Umbria, with the floral chinoiserie border being inspired by the popular Chinese blue and white designs of the day. Also, exactly where is the original artwork for Blue Italian? Despite impeccable records held at Spode, it was never recorded and, to this day, remains a mystery that may never be solved.

"The general consensus is that it’s not an actual place in Italy," says Portmeirion Group's sales and marketing 64

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director Phil Atherton. "But it is very much of the time, and it's mystery remains part of its charm."

A huge best-seller in its day, Blue Italian soon became a design icon - finely detailed in shades of deep cobalt blue with the Italianate scene said to 'instil peace, tranquillity and wonder into the home'. It adorned the most fashionable and aristocratic tables on a global stage, with up to 700 bespoke items being produced for people who wanted to own a dish for every dining occasion, from a soup tureen to a cranberry dish. "It's very different to today now that tableware has become multi-functional and much more casual," points out Phil.

Back To Stoke-on-Trent

Belowt: Spode’s 200th anniversary signature collection, which has been inspired by historic Spode designs.

Bottom: Phil Atherton, group sales and marketing director of Portmeirion Group.

He says that because Blue Italian was collected and passed down through the generations, many people can still recall seeing it on the tables or dressers at their parents’ and grandparents’ homes. "The design has become nostalgic which has in turn made it iconic," says Phil.

Therefore, tasked with the hugely important role of taking Spode's Blue Italian into the next stage of its rich history (see From Rags To Riches right), how have the designers at Portmeirion Group not only reflected Spode's heritage but taken it into the 21st century?

"The six new pieces in the signature collection - a biscuit barrel, a fruit strainer and stand, a large platter, an entertaining set, a bowl and a hot beverage pot - have been inspired by some of Spode's own archive designs," points out Phil. "We also have a second range called Giallo which is a

l The Spode brand has a classic product portfolio with worldwide favourites including Christmas Tree, Delamere and Woodland as well as Blue Italian. l Following the purchase of the Spode brand in April 2009, Portmeirion Group has brought the manufacture of many of Spode’s products back to The Potteries and its factory in Stoke-on-Trent.

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Spode’s 200th Anniversary

modern re-interpretation of Blue Italian. The Italianate scene has been recreated in watercolour, with a geometric yellow patterned border. We are sure that the anniversary will inspire a new audience to add Blue Italian into their homes, while new and existing collectors will also buy into the Anniversary and Giallo collections."

He says that there will always be an audience for Blue Italian, from the ages of 25-85. "For example, Louise Thompson, who appears in the TV show Made in Chelsea, has been shown on the

Above: A Blue Italian copper plate and graver.

Left: A lifestyle shot showing the new Giallo collection, which has been given a contemporary twist.

programme drinking out of a Blue Italian cup." Phil also points to a global market with America, Australia, Canada, Sweden and Norway the biggest markets for Spode outside of the UK. Naturally, supporting the company's retailers will be key. "We have developed some very special POS material, to include a brochure that really helps to contextualise both collections while engaging with consumers through the history and provenance of the brand," highlights Phil.

"After all, Blue Italian is one of the only

From Rags To Riches

l The enigma surrounding Blue Italian is part of a rich tapestry that has been weaving a unique story since Josiah Spode I, (a pauper's son, whose father died when he was just six years old), decided to become an apprentice potter in Stoke-on-Trent. At the age of 16 he was paid a princely sum of 2 shillings and 3 pence a week. l Through various apprenticeships, he went on to become a dedicated master potter, eventually taking out a £500 mortgage to open his Spode factory in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent in 1770, which is now home to the Spode Museum Trust and a visitor centre. (Ironically, it is just a short walk from Portmeirion Group’s HQ, founded in 1960, which now owns the brand). l Josiah Spode I tapped into the trend for tea which had become the national beverage. He quickly saw the advantage of producing teaware at the Spode factory, when, at the time, it was being made in China and imported. l A Spode shop followed, in London's Fore Street, necessitating that Josiah Spode I’s son, Josiah Spode II, become a freeman of the City of London. (A larger shop, in a converted theatre in London’s Portugal Street, opened later). l It was here that Josiah II, the 'business brain', took orders for bespoke ceramics when the nobility and upper middle class came in with images from books, or their own paintings, following Grand Tours of Europe which was something of a rite of passage for the monied, that they would like reproduced onto various ceramic items.

patterns in the world that can say it is not only 200 years old but also, has been in production since 1816. There is also an animated video - a first for us - and we will, of course, be engaging with retailers and consumers through social media."

Local school children meanwhile, will be receiving education packs encouraging both them and their parents to learn more about their Stoke heritage. "The Potteries may have had its ups and downs over the years, but the celebration of Spode's Blue Italian 200th anniversary is something to feel very proud of," says Phil. "In fact, we're setting out to make it a year long event."

l Blue and white ware was extremely popular, but the market was dominated by Chinese imports. However, when an auction ring lowered the profits for Chinese exporters, it resulted in the slowing down of Chinese imports. l For Josiah I, this was the catalyst that led him to develop England's first commercially viable production method for blue printed earthenware. None of the other Stoke-on-Trent potteries were able to replicate the earthenware or quality of design, and it therefore gave Spode a huge USP, with its blue and white ware rapidly elevating the company's stature. l Astonishingly, with huge orders to fulfil, it took the company's engravers two months to engrave the design for a dinner plate! l Spode went on to produce hundreds of blue and white designs. But it wasn't until 1816, that Josiah Spode II launched Blue Italian, now acknowledged as one of the oldest surviving - and most admired tableware designs in the world. l Poignantly, Josiah I didn't live to see it. He died suddenly in 1797 aged 64, with Josiah II taking over the business. He went on to be awarded Spode’s first Royal Warrant in 1806, having been appointed as Potter and English Porcelain Manufacturer to HRH The Prince of Wales. l Josiah Spode II died in 1827, aged 72, having seen Spode become one of the leading pottery manufacturers in the world.

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London Stationery Show

Social Stationery-

It's A Gift What do you get if you cross the London Stationery Show with National Stationery Week and World Stationery Day? The answer is a lot of people all over the world thinking about, talking about, selling and buying stationery.

And that's exactly what the man who has an unshakeable belief in the sector, Chris Leonard-Morgan, wants to happen. In fact, he's on a mission to involve as many independent gift retailers as possible in National Stationery Week this year, which takes place from April 25 - May 1.

With pen poised, and trendy notebook in hand, PG&H caught up with Chris to hear more about his plans for getting people writing.

Selling social and gift stationery is a no brainer for gift shops as far as Chris Leonard-Morgan is concerned. The man behind the dedicated London Stationery Show - now in its sixth year and two-and-ahalf times bigger than when it first opened its doors in 2011 - as well as National Stationery Week and World Stationery Day, is passionate about getting people writing and sending letters, cards and anything else that requires someone to put pen to paper.

"Sometimes, only a handwritten note will do," he smiles.

He is particularly keen to get more gift shops involved in National Stationery Week this year, whose Writing Matters campaign aims to keep Britain - and children - writing.

"This event is a mega opportunity for gift shops to sell social and gift stationery," he states. "It's in its fifth year now, so it's a very established event on the calendar. We provide all the marketing tools a shop needs to get involved, and give the Week the most

tremendous publicity boost. Last year's event generated ÂŁmillions worth of media coverage and retail sales, reaching over 20 million consumers with the message that writing by hand is important and has a vital part to play in personal communications. From a gift shop's perspective, they get to sell more social stationery because of the publicity and make a decent profit as well. For example, in 2015, independent gift retailer The Country House Gift Company in Somerset ran some very successful poetry, drawing and writing competitions," he highlights.

Bloggers too, are helping spread the word - last year there were over 100 - while comedian Sarah Millican and author Jill Mansell tweeted about their love of stationery - just two names out of an estimated 251,000 tweeters; plus, radio presenter Chris Evans and guests talked stationery on his Radio 2 breakfast show, as did Steve Wright on his afternoon show, collectively reaching some 19m listeners.

This year, there are two themes: Stationery Heaven For Stationery Buyers (for the

exhibition), and Writing Matters (for National Stationery Week). Chris believes they perfectly sum up what the London Stationery Show, National Stationery Week and World Stationery Day are all about. "It's impossible to separate handwriting from stationery," he underlines. "Stationery is hot, and writing is cool! National Stationery Week is driving the debate about the importance of writing by hand in a digital age, and championing writing and paper products to the consumer," states Chris.

He's also hoping that more gift retailers than ever will visit the London Stationery Show in April. "There are hundreds of great brands and thousands of products from around the world, and all in one place," he points out.

"Some 20 years ago, stationery, like candles, was purely functional, hidden away in a cupboard and brought out when needed," reflect Chris. "Today, it's where fashion meets function - everyone loves it!"

Above: Chris Leonard-Morgan is shown at last year's show.

Left: Social and gift stationery is all under one roof.

The Lowdown l National Stationery Week takes places from April 25-May 1, 2016.

Visit www.nationalstationeryweek.com l The London Stationery Show takes place from April 26-27, 2016, at the Business Design Centre in London's Islington, and includes the annual Stationery Awards.

Visit www.stationeryshow.co.uk l World Stationery Day takes place on April 27, 2016. Visit www.worldstationeryday.com

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Retailer Face To Face: Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, which welcomes some 1.5m visitors a year, boasts one of the largest zoo gift outlets in the country - the Diamond Jubilee Gift Shop opened by the Queen in 2012. It won The Greats Best Visitor Attraction Gift Shop category in 2015, and, on a busy summer's day, can see some 15,000 visitors walk through its doors.

Combined with the zoo's two other gift outlets, The Islands and The Fountain, the shops put over 400,000 transactions through the tills last year, to include 150,000 items of plush, with all proceeds going towards conservation not only in the UK but also globally.

PG&H spent a day at the zoo with general retail manager Alison Brooks to hear what else makes the zoo such a special place.

Alison Brooks, who joined Chester Zoo as general retail manager just over two years ago, made her first sale in the family post office and gift shop at the age of four. "I sold a greeting card, and had to stand on a milk crate to reach the till, so retail has definitely been in my blood from a child," she recalls with a smile. "Having initially worked on the high street, I now have the pleasure of walking through Chester Zoo every day and seeing the animals which makes me feel extremely lucky. There aren't many retailers who can say that they have elephants outside their door!"

Dedicated to the zoo as well as to gift retail, and taking a huge pride in her job, she

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constantly strives to monitor the carbon footprint of the retail operation, working with local suppliers where possible to keep product miles to a minimum.

Among the main gift and home suppliers are Root Candles, Joe Davies, Aurora World, Puckator and Pure Fashions.

Boasting over 600 sq metres of retail space - it was doubled in the year prior to the Queen's visit in 2012 - the shop was designed to bring the zoo's brand identity and conservation mission to life, and is its busiest commercial operation. It focuses on bringing the outdoor experience indoors, with a vast, diverse range of product, many of which are fair trade, catering for all ages and budgets, with displays ensuring that the products always tell a story.

Unsurprisingly, the top seller by far, across all three gift outlets, is plush. Price points range from £4-£400,

Inset: A Sumatran Tiger.

Above: Chester Zoo's Alison Brooks, general retail manager, with colleagues John Sutton, retail operations manager, and Vicky Powell, retail buyer, shown with the coveted Greats 2015 Best Museum/Visitor Attraction Gift Shop trophy. Presenting the award was Michael Papé, director of category sponsor Ravensden.

Left: The zoo's current No. 1 plush item: an own brand Chester Zoo giraffe from Aurora.

Below left: The interior of the Diamond Jubilee Gift Shop.

reflecting the animals that visitors will find as they wander round. When new arrivals come along - most recently, two unusual African sengis, a baby capybara from South America and a Sumatran orangutan, all born at the zoo last Autumn - Alison and her buyers are fast off the mark to place a bespoke order!

Additionally, when the Sun Bears returned to the zoo after a 40 year break, a range of Charlie Bears were introduced, and when sloths appeared in a certain TV sofa ad last year, all panic broke out to try and track plush down ahead of the other zoos, with Puckator coming up trumps with bespoke sloth cushions! "We want children to become conservationists and animal lovers early on.

So a big part of my remit is to ensure that we have their favourite animals at the zoo

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Retailer Face To Face: Chester Zoo

The Islands Gift Shop

One of Chester Zoo's most exciting ventures over the past six months has been the opening of The Islands Gift shop, a 'must visit' for 'explorers' choosing to venture into the brand new ÂŁ40m Islands extension, the biggest and most ambitious zoo development in Europe. There are six authentic South East Asian islands - Panay, Papua, Bali, Sumatra, Sumba and Sulawesi - where the brand new Islands Gift Shop is situated.

"It's an immersive environment and very different to the rest of the zoo," says Alison, "with visitors learning about real life conservation skills."

The majority of products are fair trade and sourced from South East Asia, with the shop and nearby restaurant a replica of a real South East Asian craft worker's house. Displays are filled with authentic giftware from suppliers that include Java Art, Gringo and Shared Earth.

available in our gift shops," states Alison.

"My goal is constantly to look at product sourcing from the visitor's perspective."

Unique Chester Zoo labelled souvenirs and clothing, as well as collectables, books, jewellery, and fashion accessories, span 3,000 lines, with confectionery products made using sustainable palm oil. "We also like to produce the unexpected for our visitors, ranging from artwork of our animals to a baby's first range of bespoke Chester Zoo clothing," Alison highlights. "We have 12,500 fantastic animals spanning over 450 species so there's a lot to build on!" Fair trade

products make up a large part of homewares, with Alison actively looking for products that support communities in areas where the zoo carries out its conservation work.

The shop boasts 10 cash tills and with good reason. According to Alison, during the summer, from 3.30pm every day, it feels like Christmas Eve, with 80% of the shop's retail trade taking place in the last hours of the day. "It's because most families visit the Diamond Jubilee Gift Shop as the leave the zoo," points out Alison. "The shop combines everything we do in our other gift shops as well as offering a wider range, with most products animal themed. However, we do look at what's trending on the high street and are currently helped by ongoing trends for owls, flamingos and butterflies for example. Also, as 2015 was a special year for our tigers, who moved to a new

enclosure, we have reflected tigers on our cushions, plush and other souvenirs."

Helping to create a point of difference is own brand, a growing sector, with children in particular looking to take home a souvenir that has a Chester Zoo label.

"Some 50% of own brand sales come from plush, magnets, keyrings and mugs, although, depending on the season, sales do fluctuate," she comments.

With school children very much in mind, The Fountain Gift Shop is situated in the middle of the zoo. "It's very popular with children on a school trip who can buy their souvenirs before they get too tired," explains Alison. Favourite purchases include plastic replicas of animals, friendship bracelets and zoo badges with the average spend between ÂŁ2-5. (Unlike the high street, Christmas is the

Below: The Islands Gift Shop, new to the zoo in summer 2015.

Below right: A popular sloth cushion from Puckator.

Below left: Among the crocodiles at the zoo.

Below far left: The Fountain Gift Shop, a magnet for children.

Below middle: A Sulawesi Macaque.

Top 5 Plush Best Sellers 1. Giraffes. ("Little girls love their big doe eyes and eyelashes.")

2. Elephants 3. Tigers 4. Sloths 5. Orangutans

zoo's quietest period and summer its busiest thanks to visits from schools, families and tourists).

So what's in the pipeline for the coming year? "We'll be expanding our own brand offer to include bespoke toys and giftware and we will also be putting over 200 products online for the first time which is very exciting," Alison reveals. "Plus, we'll be continuing to make all our gift shops easy to buy from and a very pleasing experience for our visitors."

Chester Zoo: The Lowdown

l Chester Zoo, the UK's most visited wildlife attraction, has been a conservation charity

since 1934, working to protect animals and plants from extinction. l It was founded by George Mottershead and his family in 1931. l The zoo was the focus of a recent BBC1 drama series, Our Zoo, based on the story of

l l l l

how the Mottershead family opened the zoo in the face of staunch opposition and huge personal sacrifice.

The zoo's ethos and mission is to use sustainable, energy efficient materials while supporting local suppliers to reduce its own carbon footprint.

The zoo spans 125 acres to include an award winning zoological garden.

When the Queen visited in 2012, she rode on the monorail which now flies the Union Jack to commemorate the occasion.

Overseas conservation initiatives include giraffe and okapi projects in Uganda, elephant and orangutan projects in South East Asia, a chimpanzee project in Nigeria and a spectacled bears project in South America. ("As Paddington comes from Peru, I suspect he would have been a spectacled bear," laughs Alison).

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Clever Design Ideas and Excellent Value since 1986

We have moved

to Hall 4, middle of main central aisle.

Stands 4D52-E53

online ordering: www.orchid-designs.co.uk tel: 01484 866903

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fax: 01484 866955

Home, Gifts, Textiles

Spring Fair : Hall 4 stands D52-E53

orchid@orchid-designs.demon.co.uk Dearne Park Ind. Est., Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD8 9XJ, England.

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Early Ambitions

When I Grow Up

It seems that most people in gifts initially hankered after another career - from a policewoman to a professional golfer - when they were in their teens and 20s.

PG&H takes a look at the different career paths that might have been trodden had things turned out differently.

Model

Left: Li Case in her modelling days.

"I had never even contemplated modelling as a possibility, and then, out of the blue, I was in London and a scout started talking to me," reveals Li Case, owner of luxury lifestyle store Orange Tree in Topsham, Devon. "I didn't really take it seriously until a few months later, when I was in America and was scouted again. Modelling was an exceptional experience. Yes, the pressures were very high and it got very stressful at times, but I was introduced to sides of life that were fascinating. I met some really interesting people and did some very cool things."

Li says that after that, and being a single mother, she worked a lot. "I did promotional work for companies such as Porsche and also designed windows for Topshop before eventually taking the plunge and opening my own luxury lifestyle store Orange Tree, in Topsham, Devon. There have been times along the way when the struggle has been so overwhelming that to even dream of owning my own business was far-fetched. Now that I do, I can't help but reflect every day, and be thankful for how lucky I am to have my hard work pay off. I fill my shop with beautiful things that I adore, and would want to fill my own home with, and that is an exceptionally fulfilling achievement and one I don't take for granted."

Policewoman

When she left school, Sara Park-Patterson, area manager at Bluestone for the company's shops in Largs, Barrhead and Lochgilphead, went to university to study Marketing and Business Law. "Having been fascinated by the whole legal system from a young age, I also joined Strathclyde Police as a Special Constable with the hope to gain a better understanding of the legal system in practice and a view to potentially joining full time following my graduation. This voluntary position certainly opened my eyes and provided me with a whole new skills set, from dealing with aggravated individuals, attending emergencies, assisting the public and also how to deal with the odd shoplifter in my part time employment within the family gift shop.

"But after four years at university, I realised I had underestimated how lucky, and indeed happy, I was to have Above: Sara Park-Patterson at her passing out parade in 2008. grown up within the gift industry," continues Sara. "I have therefore continued with my voluntary position which has taught me so much, while giving back to the community and our emergency services which many take for granted. While friends undertook graduate positions for large multinationals, I chose to remain within the family business and have been made area manager of our three gift shops. I'm so grateful to be submerged within such a positive, rewarding and thriving industry, doing something which I have a real passion and enthusiasm for."

Taxidermist

"I passionately wanted to be a taxidermist," recalls Sharon Jervis, founder and artist at Beefayre. "I had a passion for the natural world from a very young age, becoming a bird watcher before I was a teenager and it's a passion I avidly pursue now."

Continues Sharon: "While on a bird watching trip, I found a couple of dead birds which I later stuffed by candlelight in our garden shed. Although I was only 13, I took them down to Leicester Museum where I met the taxidermists. They literally took me under their wing and I learned the basic skills over the next few years. It was a creative outlet for my love of natural history and I loved the atmosphere in the museum. However, my artistic skills developed as I got older. A different pathway opened up with my talent as a wildlife illustrator, and I have now spent decades as a prolific illustrator in the gift trade."

Above: Sharon Jervis at her drawing board. Growing up, she passionately wanted to be a taxidermist.

Popstar

For gift agent Mark Devery, his dream was to be a famous guitarist. "I wanted to play and sing in a band," he remembers.

"Although, on reflection, if I had pursued a pop career, I feel sure I would have starved!"

Right: Mark Devery still has a passion for music.

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Early Ambitions

Professional Golfer

Jeweller-cum-Actor

"My first passion is jewellery, specifically diamonds, but as a young man, it was never my dream to grow up and work in jewellery although I was shown the ways of diamonds by my uncle and I began the journey," says Dave Kukadia, business development executive at The Giftware Association.

"However, after a number of years, my creative side began to take over and I started an evening course in drama at the Birmingham Theatre School. I'd always wanted to try it and immediately loved it. This led to completing my Above: A screen shot from a new degree. Again, I accidently found something I British drama set in Birmingham called loved and have a true passion for. I’m extremely Guilty Pleasures. Dave Kukadia is lucky to be able to incorporate both aspects of my shown as Sid coming face to face with his cousin for the first time in five years. passions into my work and I definitely wouldn’t change it. Most recently, I used my film-making experience to produce a promotional video for The Giftware Association."

Investment Banker

Above: Hannah Dale started out in the City, but found her passion as an artist.

Fashionista

"I always really struggled to know which career path to take," confirms wildlife artist Hannah Dale, founder of Wrendale Designs. "I had loved my degree in zoology but wasn't sure if I wanted the life of an academic."

Continues Hannah: "If someone tells me that something is out of my reach it makes me all the more determined and I knew that investment banking internships were among the hardest to get, so I decided to hedge my bets and apply, as well as applying for a Masters in Zoology at Oxford. I got a place on both and, after a lot of hard deliberation, decided to give the City career a go. It was an amazing experience and the education in finance I received undoubtedly helped with running my own business, although I couldn't have imagined that this is where it would lead. I then worked as a stockbroker for five years, leaving the City to return to my home county of Lincolnshire. I wouldn't change my experiences for anything, but I love what I am doing now and would never want to go back."

Right: Kate Muncaster.

"From a very young age I’d always envisaged my career path to be something to do with making, buying, selling, shops and clothes. I just didn’t have much of a plan!" explains Kate Muncaster, creative director of The House of Disaster.

"At 18, I left school with my A levels under my belt and deferred a place at Manchester university to pursue fashion. So I packed my shiny new backpack, rustled up £500 and went off to travel the world for a year.

“I’d been working part time in a beautiful local boutique from the age of 16 until my travels, with an inspirational owner who gave me the opportunity to go on fashion buying trips with a budget which I was over the moon about and completely got the fever. While I was away though, time was ticking and uni was beckoning."

Continues Kate: "I then received a letter offering me the chance to become a director at the boutique rather than go to uni. I was so happy as I had enough of education and realised I wanted a job where I could continue travelling and source all these amazing products that I’d seen all over the world. Luckily, after a very happy few years of learning all the ins and outs of retail, I then had a wholesale opportunity to go and live and work over in Bali and India and to manufacture clothes. We were supplying lots of independents and I was also doing bespoke work for high street fashion labels. It was great fun, crazy and fast paced. I was permanently on the move buying in the Far East and selling at trade shows all over Europe. I kept coming across local gift and accessory artisans with amazing specialist skills making gorgeous homewares and fashion accessories. I started to work with them and from then I was hooked. The rest, as they say, is history!"

"My career aspiration was definitely to be a professional golfer," reveals David Theobald, owner of two gift shops, Emporium in Winchcombe and Cheltenham. " I played amateur golf for Kent, where I captained several teams, and also played golf for England when I was 17. However, unfortunately, I injured my back and couldn't maintain the progress I was making, so it all ground to a halt.

Nevertheless, I subsequently went into sports marketing, working for the golf division of Nike where I signed up players around the world with the exception of Above: David Theobald, a golfer turned gift shop owner.

America. I also did the same in Australia, where we lived for five years, and in Asia. It was a great life when I was single, but when I got married and we had a young daughter, we made the decision to come back to the UK to live in Winchcombe. We opened our first gift shop in 2011, followed by a second one in Cheltenham in 2013."

International Lawyer

Before she opened The Old School Beauly, Helen Crawford, owner of The Old School Beauly, Shop & Cafe, was a Scottish qualified lawyer and spent many years in the Balkans working for the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office. "I advised emerging governments on the EU legal standard because that was something they aspired to join," she explains. "Typically, I'd be meeting with foreign ministers, the UN and other international organisations. I loved it, but eventually got fed up with airports and constantly packing my suitcase. I headed back to The Highlands for a new adventure there! The travel bug might hit me again but I for now I love the world of retail."

Below: Helen Crawford.

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In Profile: Widdop Bingham

'Brand' New As the saying goes, what goes round comes round, and for Widdop Bingham, a fresh new look for the company has meant going back to its heritage, with a re-branding that incorporates the trademark 'Widdop blue', as well as the date the company was established - 1883 - reinforcing the company's place in the gift industry's hierarchy as being one of the oldest companies in the sector.

With a new trading name - Widdop and Co. - and a myriad of exciting new products for 2016, Spring Fair will be the official launchpad for the unveiling of an exciting new beginning, with Widdop and Co. going back to the future, as md Stuart Illingworth reveals.

S

The Lowdown

l Widdop Bingham was founded by William Widdop in Brighouse in 1883 as a jewellers and watchmakers. l John Illingworth married William Widdop’s daughter Mary, and took over the business on the death of William. l Today, the company is one of the UK's largest suppliers of clocks, giftware and home accessories to the trade. l Widdop prides itself on its service levels and is proud to have won The Greats gold award four years in a row. l There are 7,000 products in the company's range, with a launch of over 3,000 new products every year. Most lines are available in single quantities. l An in-house design team is responsible for the company’s 25 brands which offer a real differential in the market place. l The company's showrooms in Chadderton, Manchester, are open all year round to buyers.

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pring, traditionally, is all about 'green shoots', and for the newly rebranded Widdop and Co., a company whose roots go back 133 years, 2016 is about proudly going back to its heritage, yet with a fresh and contemporary new feel.

“The evolution at Widdop over the last 10 years has been continuous and enormously exciting," explains md Stuart Illingworth. "Our product offering has evolved almost beyond recognition. Ten years ago, we were selling predominantly resin figurines, clocks and photo frames. General giftware had a much lower emphasis," he points out.

"As we have increased our in-house design team, as well as developing our own brands and partnerships with wonderful licences, our product offering now has a much greater depth, appealing across many retail sectors. So 2016 will continue in this vein, but with a brand new logo, a new stand and location at Spring Fair and fantastic new product ranges that have already had very positive feedback on early viewings. Although we are losing the ‘Bingham’ bit of our name, it has no family associations," explains Stuart. "The name was added to the business in 1949 with the takeover of a business in Manchester."

He highlights that the aim of the new branding is to portray a clear, simple and coherent message across all content. "The timing has been designed to coincide with the launch of several, major, state of the art projects during 2016," he points out.

Above: Stuart Illingworth.

Far left: Blue is the colour for the company's new logo, taking Widdop's back to its heritage.

Above left: John Illingworth outside his watchmaker’s shop in Brighouse, Yorkshire. (The photo was taken just after the end of WWI when he returned back from active service).

Left: Yay, a new range launching at Spring Fair.

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In Profile: Widdop Bingham

On the new product front, several new ranges will be making their debut at Spring Fair. Among them is By Appointment, a distinctive collection of high quality, themed ladies giftware from Pigment Design Studio, along with Yay, a young, fun, summery range featuring easy pick-up items at competitive price points. Licensed product includes new launches from Disney: The Good Dinosaur, Jungle Book and Finding Dory, along with an exciting Star Wars collection, Pretty Princesses and Magical Moments, a collection of baby giftware figurines that have been shortlisted in this year's Gift of the Year competition.

"Spring Fair represents the major launch pad for our 2016 product launches," emphasises Stuart. "The biggest change for us is our move from our long-standing location in Hall 5 to our new spot in Hall 4."

Marking the change will be a new look stand (G10-J11) that is over 20% larger than the company's previous Spring Fair stands. "It has been organised by room set, giving each brand its own showcase with a distinctive look and feel. Everything truly will be under one roof, with every single one of our brands represented in the Widdop village," underlines Stuart.

One room set will be entirely dedicated to Christmas 2016.

The collection is made up of nine eye-catching Christmas

themes across a wide range of home decorative accessories, tree decorations and Christmas candleholders. "We'll be offering over 1,000 lines that are competitively priced with sensible minimum quantities," Stuart confirms.

Among the ranges being showcased is Coton Colors, a collection of 70 celebration glass baubles which tell the story of each collector’s life, as major events are celebrated with a different keepsake bauble.

As well as the traditional Christmas baubles, the collection also marks every important occasion, from love and marriage to the baby carriage and beyond, with each line handdecorated and packaged in a bespoke box.

Highlights Stuart: "The collection has two display solutions - a white wooden Christmas tree for displaying the products and a second solution for displaying stock."

In addition, brand new for 2016 is a sparkly pink Princess themed collection.

"It’s a real show-stopper, providing a high impact in-store display," he states. "As well as tree decorations, there are some great light-up home accessories which would not look out of place once Christmas has been and gone."

Meanwhile, following on from the successful Love Life collection, Widdop and Co. is launching Love Christmas, a collection of Christmas-themed plaques and baubles, with a floor-standing in-store display that houses the entire range. On the licensing front, festive licensed giftware includes baby's first Christmas gifts and collectable figurines, based on the film The Snowman and the Snowdog. "Each item has been hand-finished with a high level of detail to ensure a faithful rendition of the endearing nature of the two characters," comments Stuart.

Looking to the company's future, Stuart and his two brothers, sales director Andrew Illingworth, and operations/finance director Chris Illingworth - the great grandchildren of William Widdop, the original founder of the business - have now been joined by Stuart's sons Stephen and Daniel. Their cousin James, Chris' son, joins the company on April 1, making them the fifth generation to take the business forward in a fast, dynamic and changing market place.

Comments Stuart: "It’s a very exciting time for the business, where we're looking towards an exciting future whilst, at the same time, delighted to be celebrating the company's rich heritage."

Above: Wendy Jones-Blackett licensed baby gifts are a small part of a baby range featuring over 700 lines.

Right: Always and Forever wedding gifts are among thousands of gifts and brands being showcased at Spring Fair.

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The LARGEST COLLECTION of Greeting Card Publishers IN THE WORLD “I thoroughly enjoyed the 2015 show. A really good mix of publishers - and a fantastic lunch!”

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PG Live 2016

Destination PG As most gift retailers will confirm, greeting cards are still a growth area, with more and more gift shops, up and down the country, now recognising the merit of making dedicated card show PG Live a 'must visit' show each year.

With an expanded Springboard section fanfaring the newest publishers, and the strongest ever roster of leading publishers exhibting, PG&H reveals what else will be new for 2016 when the show opens its doors on May 10-11 at London's Business Design Centre.

F

or gift retailers looking to source those extra special greeting cards that make their shops a destination store, PG Live is undoubtedly the place to find new talent alongside the more established publishers.

Holding the distinction as the only dedicated trade show for the greeting card industry, PG Live, now in its eighth year, continues to strengthen its position in both the UK and the international market place, offering an opportunity for buyers to see the latest designs and offerings from across the greeting card industry. In fact, the show has become a respected global launchpad for new ranges and promotions, with thousands

of original designs for retailers as well as illustrations available to buy or licence for overseas publishers and licensees.

"I come to the show most years, as it's a chance to concentrate on cards. Everything is in one place," says Denise Laird, owner of Spirito in Broomhill, Glasgow. "It's also a good way to receive feedback from people in the card industry and it's always nice to speak to the designers too. On the first day of the show in 2015, we placed nine orders in the first two hours, four of them with new suppliers in the Springboard section."

Louise Heyler-Prydderch, owner of Forget Me Not in Stubbington, has been coming to the show since its launch seven years Top: PG Live is the world's only dedicated greeting card show.

Left: Visitors enjoy a friendly, businesslike atmosphere while on the look-out for new artists and publishers.

Above: Gift shop Maddy Moo's co-owner Karen Nolan with exhibitor Jeremy Corner, md of Blue Eyed Sun. As a Greats 2015 finalist, Karen presented Jeremy with her ÂŁ50 Greats voucher to spend on cards from the company.

Live The Lowdown PG Live 2016 takes place on Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 May, 2016, at the Business Design Centre in London.

Tel: +44 (0) 1635 297070; email: warren@progressivegreetingslive.com; visit www.progressivegreetingslive.com

ago. "I always come for two days and feel it's really nice to focus purely on greeting cards where we've had significant growth. I tend to do Springboard first," continues Louise, "and always try to find two new publishers at the show. In 2015, I placed orders with Bluebell 33, Inspired Goodbyes and Hammond Gower. I always find PG Live very enjoyable to visit."

At Pippin in Edinburgh, owner Erica Stahl is quick to point out that PG Live looks after its visitors very well. "Also, I love cards, and to have an entire trade show that is Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Come and see our lovely new gift ranges at the Spring Fair NEC 7th - 11th February 2016 You will now find us in HALL 6 Stand J22 - K23 www.reallygood.uk.com 086_GH_February 2016.indd 86

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PG Live 2016 devoted to them is fantastic. Some of my current suppliers were among the exhibitors and it was good to see them there last year as they weren't doing any other shows at that time of year. I came by train and took back lots of catalogues. I placed my orders when I got back. I like the fact that there are smaller, new companies in the Springboard section and in the Artists’ Quarter. I was once a struggling jewellery designer, so I like to help to give smaller companies a step up."

Sam Malvern, owner of Inside Out in Cheltenham, who came along with her mother Angela, was at last year's show to

New Look Website The PG Live website has undergone a makeover for 2016, with the online portal www.progressivegreetingslive.com transformed to reflect the exhibition's fresh, modern approach to trade shows.

“Our new website makes planning for and attending PG Live even easier,” explains marketing manager Jacqui Parr.

“We wanted to make the website faster, easier to navigate and more user-friendly, while still keeping the friendly feel PG Live is famous for.”

She highlights that the fresh, clean design allows buyers to browse the exhibitors exciting new ranges and designs in advance, making their time at the show as productive as possible, while the newly positioned exhibitor zone allows publishers to make the most of their preview page on the website, allowing over 250 publishers, artists and designers to showcase their latest collections in advance of the show.

In addition, the simple navigation and streamlined content makes it simple for visitors to plan everything ranging from which exhibitors they want to see to where they want to stay overnight.

Brimming with information about the show, as well as helpful links to local accommodation and entertainment, the website continues to be a valuable online resource, say organisers Max Exhibitions.

l Springboard@ PG Live Springboard@ PG Live is dedicated to fanfaring new and emerging publishers and has become a major element of PG Live. l Artists' Quarter The Artists' Quarter is home to a group of talented artists, creative designers and agents. Portfolio features new works that are available to buy or licence.

look for new publishers. "It was our second year and we saw lots of publishers we hadn't seen before," she confirmed. "We collected brochures and also placed a couple of orders while we were there. We had a few gaps in our card ranges and went to find particular genres of cards. One of the ranges we particularly liked was Inspired Goodbyes, a new type of sympathy card."

Retailers Sara and Nigel Morris went to PG Live to find cards for their second store, gift shop Rhubarb in Malvern.

"We don't do a huge amount of cards at Rhubarb," explained Sara. "We have some great suppliers but we came to find new companies.

One company of particular interest was Cardlight, featuring cards made from fire retardant material. They open out so that you can put a tea light inside. Another range that impressed us at last year’s show was the Fab Funky range from Victoria Armstrong."

Meanwhile, making a first visit to PG Live was Sally Robinson, owner of Mrs Robinson's Store in Worthing. "I headed for the Springboard section and very quickly Top: The international greetings community comes together for two days of networking, business and fun.

Below: Among the show surprises last year were Punjabi dancers organised by Davora.

discovered lots of greeting card publishers that were completely new to me. I found the show very inspiring. I like to see a strong handwriting and style on cards and really liked the designs from Pippi and Me which had a certain nostalgic feel to them."

Commenting on the show, Warren Lomax, joint show director, says that, with so much going on, everyone in the industry has the opportunity to get involved, make great business contacts, and - most importantly of all - enjoy themselves. "In fact, a number of leading publishers are choosing to make PG Live their only trade show of the year," he confirms.

Naturally, the friendly, supportive atmosphere is an essential part of the show's appeal. "It's a pleasure to work with some of the most creative and passionate people in the business and we'll be coming up with a few new surprises for the 2016 show,” promises Warren.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry PG Live has become well known for its friendly service and added extras. These include free refreshments throughout the entire two-day exhibition, a free hot, two course lunch, a free post-show industry party at the end of the first day and the use of the Henry Cole Buyers’ Lounge, where tea, coffee and biscuits are served.

Free wifi is also available.

Above: The new look PG Live website.

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Face To Face: Carte Blanche

The Right

Bearing

Spring Fair is a very special one for Carte Blanche this year. The company will be unveiling its "biggest ever launch" according to the company's ceo Alister Marchant.

Yet it is not just the size of the totally revamped Me to You plush and gift collection that is significant, but how it signals a massive shift in attitude and commitment to its retail customers.

PG&H found out all about the Me to You plans to ensure the brand, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, has ‘the key to the door’ and hearts.

For a little bear with a blue nose who doesn’t speak, Tatty Teddy (the star of Me to You) has prompted an awful lot of listening, numerous questions being asked, hefty investment in product development being made, packaging totally reassessed and considerable marketing muscle being flexed recently. Why? Because Me to You is not just important to Carte Blanche, but to

thousands of retail stockists, and millions of fans around the world.

Following an extraordinary amount of ‘behind the scenes’ work by the Carte Blanche team in the last six months, Spring Fair marks the official launch of a totally revamped Me to You plush and gift collection, which fanfares a relaunch of the brand. As marketing director Ruth Leonard puts it: “We want everyone to fall in love with Me to You all over again.”

Carte Blanche has certainly put a lot of thought and effort into how to rekindle the love affair.

Top: Carte Blanche’s marketing and PR will involve more lifestyle shots of Me to You products in situ.

Above: Carte Blanche’s ceo Alister Marchant (right) and commercial director Gerard O’Mahony, at the recent AGM of the Greeting Card Association, of which the company is a member.

Below left: The sentiment on this piece from the Signature Collection has been taken from one of the best selling Me to You greeting card designs.

Far left: The 6’ planned display accommodates the three different strands of the products – from the higher end Signature, the middle Essentials as well as entry level price points in the Impulse collection.

Independent retailers are being offered the first order of the planned displays on SOR.

Interestingly however, while Alister acknowledges that sales of the Me to You plush and gifts have been on the slide for the past few years, the brand has been holding up well on the greeting cards and licensed merchandise fronts.

“Our greeting card sales have been pretty constant,” confirms Alister, “which proves that Me to You really means something to the consumer.”

It is not just the new Me to You product line itself that marks a step-change in the Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Face To Face: Carte Blanche

“We’ve listened to our customers. This is a big ‘thank you’ for the loyalty they have shown us while we relaunch Me to You and realign it back to where it should be.” brand’s development, but the very approach Carte Blanche is taking towards its former and would-be independent retail customers.

The very generous SOR offer (for an independents’ first order of the 2’, 4’ or 6’ planned display options) has not surprisingly gone down very well with those indies who have had a pre-sell sneak peak of the range (only on paper, as the ‘real thing’ will be shown at the Spring Fair for the first time).

Other plus points is the improved packaging as well as the fact that retail prices on many lines have been substantially reduced, but with no loss of margin to the retailer.

“We’ve listened to our customers. This is a big ‘thank you’ for the loyalty they have shown us while we relaunch Me to You and realign it back to where it should be,” says Alister. Although clearly buoyed up by the new collection and the support in place to facilitate its launch (PoS, social media campaigns, consumer insights etc), he is aware that its success will mean meeting competition head on, and that competition is not just any other plush character.

As Gerard O’Mahony, who joined CBG as commercial director in the middle of last year, elucidated: “Our competition isn’t another bear; everything is our competitor. It could be a Yankee Candle, it could be a Pandora charm; it is whatever the consumer purchases as a gift for something. What we are doing is re-introducing Me to You as the brand that conveys emotion and sentiment

Left: Carte Blanche founder Steve Haines (left) with Me to You artist Steve Mort-Hill on the company’s stand at the Brand Licensing Europe exhibition last October, which showcased the brand’s licensing prowess.

Below: Mugs feature within both the Signature collection (pictured here) and the Essentials range, with differentiated products, packaging and price points.

Bottom left: This year will see an even more active marketing and social media campaign which will promote Me to You as well as its retail stockists as it did with the Twitter competition to promote ladies nightwear in M&S at the end of last year.

like nothing else; consumers eyes light up when they see Me to You.” The new collection is sub-divided into three distinct segments - Signature, Essentials and Impulse - each catering for different consumer purchasing decisions.

Signature, definable by its sophisticated packaging, caters for the more considered purchase for which higher price points are less of an obstacle. “This is epicentre of the

brand,” proposes Gerard. It covers all the core sentiment captions “including some that have proved incredibly popular on our greeting cards,” he says citing ‘I love you to the moon and back’ as a prime example.

The Essentials range caters for the sizeable middle market, including what Gerard describes as “the engine room” of the whole collection, the 7” bear.

Boxed mugs (RRP £4.99) are also included within this range, but at a lower price than previously.

The Impulse range is anchored by lower priced pick-up lines, such as keyrings, keepsake friendship items. “These are a great entry point into the brand, which should help regain traction with younger girls,” believes Gerard.

Special 2’, 4’ and 6’ planned displays have been devised for retailers, including products from each of the three sub-brands with a suite of supporting PoS. Although the first consignment of products have been earmarked for the planned displays, in the future, retailers will be able to cherrypick from the entire collection. “Our days of being seen as arrogant and telling retailers what to order are long gone,” says Alister with an assuring smile.

Clintons is all lined up to fanfare the new range, dedicating windows and prime display space to it at Easter, but independents form a vital force in the Me to You relaunch, with shipments primed for very early in April.

It was 21 years ago that Me to You was first launched on the planet, and it does seem as though, with all of the activity planned for this year, Tatty Teddy is going to be marking his coming of age big time.

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In Profile: madebyzen

An

Ultrasonic Success

madebyzen's luxury, ultrasonic aroma diffusers and fine fragrances were first introduced into the UK in 2009, successfully expanding their reach into Europe and the Middle East.

A sub-brand of Europium World, madebyzen has also been successfully launched pan India, where husband and wife, Dharmesh and Kajal Bhayani, md and creative director respectively, confirm that there is a receptive and growing market.

So what will be driving sales in the UK and internationally for the company during 2016?

O

ver the past few years, ultrasonic aroma diffusers have upped the ante in the home fragrancing market, with madebyzen a trailblazer in the UK. "The concept is based around niche-ness, innovation, style, elegance and desirability," explains Dharmesh Bhayani, md of the company.

"The brand has evolved to cater not just for the middle tier but also for the luxury/affluent tier of the market, with our aim being to continue to create affordable indulgent luxuries."

He says that the inspiration for madebyzen has evolved through constantly

focusing on finding niche products. "We source items which are significantly innovative in order to fire the imagination.

Kajal, as creative director, has always had a personal interest in the aromatherapy sector and, while researching various ways to diffuse essential oils, she came across ultrasonic technology. Seeing the niche and the innovation, we subsequently decided to create a new brand specifically for both the product, and the aromatherapy market, under

Below: Dharmesh Bhayani.

Inset: Athena pink, one of the latest madebyzen ultransonic reed diffusers that has ambiente lighting.

the Europium umbrella. As a result, madebyzen was born in 2009 and a range was developed."

Interestingly, neither Dharmesh nor Kajal had a background in home fragrancing. "All we had was an interest and liking for all things fragrant," comments Dharmesh.

As the brand started to grow, he and Kajal quickly realised that their ultrasonic aroma diffusers could also be used for home fragrancing. They therefore set about learning as much as they could about the home fragrance sector, soon making inroads and gradually becoming experts in the field.

"We pride ourselves on both our home fragrance and our aromatherapy products and now have a vast range of customers in both sectors," Dharmesh confirms.

Aside from the ultrasonic aroma diffusers, the company has also added fragrance and essential oils, reed diffusers, candles, scented sachets, room sprays and other fragrance accessories to the brand. In fact, the range of products offered by madebyzen has grown significantly over the years and is continuing to expand. Currently, new fragrances are offered every few months, but the company is intending to increase the frequency of the launches driven by customer demand. "Our customers

madebyzen: The Lowdown l Europium World, known for bringing new,

innovative products to market, has been trading since 2001 with the madebyzen band launched in 2009. l The company has several brands for different market sectors and is continuing to grow both the company, and the madebyzen brand, globally.

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In Profile: madebyzen

look to us for a unique scent offering, and what makes us stand out from the crowd is the fact that our scents are based around fine fragrance, rather than traditional home fragrance, although we do offer traditional scents as well," says Dharmesh.

The company's scent options have also grown from one range of fragrances to several which incorporate not just fragrance oils but also premium fragrances, pure essential oils and essential oils blends.

Dharmesh believes that what gives madebyzen a point of different in a hugely competitive market place is that the company works with a team of talented perfumers who have worked with the leading fragrance houses in both France and Italy.

"We have great relationships with them as they really understand the madebyzen brand philosophy which constantly keeps us ahead of our competitors," he emphasises. "They also work closely with our growing in-house team, who are focused on delivering excellence to the market, creating unique scent offerings that are tested thoroughly for their effectiveness with ultrasonic diffusers, and also with the other home fragrance products that we offer. Additionally, we also work with passionate designers from Europe to create stunning, desirable designs that are unique yet meet the requirements of a working product."

With a constantly evolving range of on trend products, inspiration comes from different materials, shapes and scent ideas, as well as from the latest home and fashion trends. "We want to stand out from the crowd and be the forerunners in the field of ultrasonic aroma diffusers," Dharmesh states. "We do tend to lead, so it's important for us to remain inspired and to constantly innovate and move forward. We have also forged great relationships with some British universities as we believe in bringing young

Left: madebyzen's reed diffuser collection includes Amber Sakura.

British design talent to the forefront. We feel that it's our duty to support our youth."

Feedback from customers is, of course, key in moving forward. The company sells through both multiples and independents, and values their relationships with both. "It was the independents that first took on the product, and, through our efforts, and those of our independents, the madebyzen products were subsequently noticed and taken on by the multiples," Dharmesh explains. "However, the independent sector remains the lifeblood of our business and we continue to support both sectors. Our customer base is very diverse as our brand offers an extremely unique product that fits into so many different selling propositions. As a result of our uniqueness, we have a formidable portfolio of retail names that currently list the madebyzen brand nationwide."

On a global stage, the export market is certainly growing with madebyzen available in a multitude of countries and different sectors. "We are dealing with retailers across the globe and this is increasing year on year," says Dharmesh. "We have a very wide range of customers in Canada, America, Europe, Iceland, Africa, the Middle East, India and the Far East. We are also in discussions with retailers or distribution partners in various other Above right: Lotus House, which has airport shops, are among the leading Indian retailers stocking the madebyzen brand.

Left: Among the fine fragrances offered in madebyzen's new Signature collection.

countries. Certainly, we sometimes have to make changes or develop products for specific markets as what works well in one market may not always appeal to other markets. However, our creative team pay great attention to consumer demand and are quick to react. Our new Lotus aroma diffuser, for example, has been specifically created for the Middle East and Indian market."

Looking to the coming year, the company will be continuing with its expansion plans in India and will be looking at other concepts with its current retailers in the Middle East.

"This should result in further interesting developments of the brand in this region," predicts Dharmesh. "Further inroads in the export market are incorporated in our plans for the next three years, and, based on the growth in the last 12 months, we are sure that these plans will continue to be achieved."

Back to the domestic market place, the company is excited about its growth in the UK over the last couple of years, with plans afoot to continue to grow the home market, giving retail partners full support, while constantly developing ‘newness’.

As to the future of the home fragrancing sector, Dharmesh concurs with others in the sector that the market is continuing to grow with no signs of slowing down. "Regardless of the economic climate, there is always a requirement for both home fragrance and aromatherapy," he points out.

He says that more consumers are also becoming aware that there is a requirement for a home fragrance version of fine fragrance, not just for the home, but also for a car or a cupboard, with the company always on the look-out for innovative ways to spread fragrance through a variety of mediums.

So what else is in the pipeline for 2016?

"We are already looking at new fragrancing ideas which will be coming through over the next 12-24 months," Dharmesh confirms. "In fact, as our customers will discover at Spring Fair, we are going to be launching something that really is quite amazing!"

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Spotlight On... Candles

Scents Of Spring Despite the highs and lows of the economy, if there's one product category within gifts that has really got the consumer's attention it's candles, with candle lovers constantly on the lookout for products that offer something new and different for their homes - a touch of luxury at an affordable price.

With Spring on its way, and deliciously fruity/floral fragrances starting to waft their way onto the shelves, PG&H enjoyed an early preview of what will be scenting homes over the coming months, with blush pink leading the colourways, and decorated containers becoming a growing trend.

Also, watch out for natural candles which are beginning to make their presence felt in the market place.

As home fragrancing continues to quicken its pace, with more companies than ever a part of this hugely competitive market place, the onus is on suppliers, not just in the UK but in America and Europe too, to up the ante when it comes to innovation. From fragrances and quality to colourways and packaging, it's a dynamic, fast moving sector with all serious players determined to keep their collections new, fresh and evolving.

The UK market continues to be a key focal point for Bolsius, which is continuing to see increasing consumer interest.

"We're seeing our more decorative ranges, such as rustic candles, sharply increasing in sales, with more and more people using

candles to bring colour and atmosphere to their homes," says international sales manager Alain Grillo.

Alain confirms that Bolsius has seen a clear upturn in overall consumer confidence.

"With the economic crisis behind us, there's a more positive feeling, with people willing to go out and shop for new products for their homes. With this in mind, we have focused on developing exciting new summer fragrances for our Aromatic limited edition range, reminding people of vacation destinations and romantic moments.

We have also

incorporated bright flower designs in our new sleeved glass ranges, combined with sunny pastel colors in our rustic pillar candles.

These designs come in new glasses with elegant shapes, as well as a tin range."

At Yankee Candle, the company is anticipating a shift towards home fragrances that feature sophisticated blends of woods, notes of exotic florals and fruits, and other culinary-inspired creations, combined with bright hues and pastel colours which reflect the beauty of the season, with the new My Serenity and Riviera Escape ranges developed to suit these trends.

"We've chosen to blend a selection of the on trend fragrance notes, such as

A Flicker Of Candlelight "It’s amazing how many people buy beautiful candles and never burn them," says Steve Davies, md of Joe Davies. "Possibly because of this, one of the biggest developments in candles in recent years is the use of LED lights to develop candles that flicker just like the real thing. Some are even remote controlled," he points out. "We've had tremendous success with our sentiment Flicker candles, which feature heart-warming messages, and will be introducing a new two tone range at Spring Fair."

Top: The My Serenity collection from Yankee Candle.

Above: Flicker candles from Joe Davies.

Inset: A summery look and feel to candles from Bolsius.

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Spotlight On... Candles

peach, peony, salt and thyme with classic candle aromas to create a range of fresh, unusual and invigorating scents," says Hannah Jenkins, Yankee Candle's brand marketing director for EMEA. "They are a complete change to the candles we launched for Autumn/Winter, but we think they are going to be extremely popular with consumers."

New to Wax Lyrical's ranges for Spring/Summer this year is Kitchen Garden, which has been inspired by the trend for superfoods and home grown produce. "It was dominant at the Chelsea Flower Show and has seen high growth in the premium

home fragrance market place," highlights the company's Nikki Garnett, head of marketing and creative. "It gives us a new unisex range appealing to both men and women as it brings the fragrance of fresh British fruit and vegetables into the home."

Meanwhile, the company is introducing rose into its RHS Fragrant Garden range in response to the 2015 trend in fine fragrance which is penetrating home fragrance for 2016. "Rose is no longer seen as an old fashioned fragrance for great aunts, in fact it is driving innovation in the floral family," Nikki continues. "Our best selling Fired Earth range has a new blue addition to the family in Assam and White Cedar, which contains woody notes and rich amber. It's a sophisticated fragrance that has been developed for a Above left: Rose, a trend fragrance, has been introduced into Wax Lyrical's RHS Fragrant Garden range.

Right: Kringle's new Fresh Air candle fragrance from Xystos.

Below right: Colonial's Spring fragrances from Widdop and Co. Below: The new Caption range, launching this Spring, comes in three formats: for the home, for cars and for scenting artificial flower arrangements and plants. The paper sticks can be placed in vases or hidden away.

sophisticated consumer who is being influenced by the heavier fragrances that are coming through from the East."

The company is also anticipating tropical fragrances trending in the summer, emerging from the mood for everything Brazilian in response to the Olympics in Rio. "We have therefore introduced coconut to our Made In England range, and Lemon and Lime to Colony, along with a new range of vividly designed citronella fragranced candles for outdoor entertaining,� adds Nikki.

Xystos enjoyed a record-breaking 2015, with director Tom Sykes predicting that over the next 12 months, an even greater proportion of disposable income will be spent on candle products. "Fruit and floral fragrances will be very on trend, and there is also a growing trend for emotive fragrances rather than fragrance specific scents," emphasises Tom. "Colour palettes for 2016 will be very pastel and soft."

To reflect the trends, the company, which also sells candle lighters - an add-on sale for many retailers - will be bringing in six new fragrances from WoodWick Coconut, Honeysuckle, Lemon, Lilac, Pineapple and Rose - and

Sticking Out Although not a candle product, another company that is concerned with health and wellness is EnviroScent. "We are seeing several trends that have spilled into home fragrance, with consumers looking for natural based fragrances that will make them relax, moving away from chemical, solvent based fragrances that smell 'like a perfume'," states Tamara Kullback, VP of International.

Caption paper sticks - that are infused with natural oils and fragrances to release fragrance at a constant level for 30 days - are a case in point. “They take you back to happy memories such as trips to the beach, Christmas, trees and woodland. Every scent in the range has been chosen because it evokes strong, happy memories, inspired by nature, making the home a happy place for relaxation and de-stressing," adds Tamara.

Range fragrances stretch from Coastal Waves to the scent of flowers and fruit such as Amber Dahlia, Tuscan Lemon, Champagne Rose, White Orchid, Provence Lavender.

"The Caption range also addresses another trend - seen by Mintel in several of its studies versatility - scenting rooms differently according to function," continues Tamara. She highlights Provencal Lavender suits the bedroom, with a fresher scent in the living room and something different in the car.

"We see car fragrances as a growth market," she states. "People are spending more time in their cars than ever and want it to be an expression of their style and make them feel good, hence a wide variety of fragrances inspired by nature are available."

eight fragrances from Kringle Candle Egyptian Cotton, Fresh Air, Fresh Mint, Picket Fence, Spa Day, Sweet Pea, Mystic Sands and Dewdrops.

"We will also be launching 18 new electronic melt burners, increasing our offer from 36-54," Tom confirms. "We are the market leaders in wax melts and electronic melt burners, a non-messy way to fragrance a house very quickly. Our home fragrance business crosses very nicely into home decor."

Colonial Candles, from Widdop and Co., meanwhile, will be celebrating its first Continued on page 93

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Spotlight On... Candles anniversary at Spring Fair this February. "The fragrance candle market is one of the most innovative and dynamic product categories within gifting," comments Sue Grant, marketing manager at Widdop and Co. "The fact that it is a mature market means that there is a huge demand for newness - new blends of fragrances, new packaging solutions, new jar shapes, new candle accessories - which all serve to maintain this very vibrant market place. New candle fragrances and blends are a must, and, with this in mind, Colonial Candles will be launching six new fragrances at Spring Fair, with combinations including Sweet Pea & Green Tea and Sea Salt & Lime which have been designed to bring the scent of Spring into the home, with gift packs for special occasions, including Mother's Day." Sharing her predictions on the sector, Denise Edwards, director at Best Kept Secrets, comments: “2016 is going to be a year of real change in the candles market.

Left: Morning Mist from Best Kept Secrets.

Throughout the last two years, the consumer has been increasingly sophisticated in their choice of candles, and 2016 shows no signs of this trend changing. As manufacturers, we are responding with new fragrances and with a greater focus on packaging design, so that candles can be used in any setting and on any occasion."

She highlights that candle tins are still extremely popular. "Compared with glass candles, they are functional and convenient, so sales in the tins market is expected to grow steadily. We know that natural fragrances are much stronger, and demand for more natural scents is significant, so specialist natural fragrance ranges are key to an enticing offer.’ Candles it seems, in all their forms and formats, are continuing to burn as brightly as ever, with the most successful companies creating their own niche in the market place.

Wellbeing In The Home "The scented candles market will continue to expand in 2016 as consumers seek ways to improve the ambience in their homes and to promote general feelings of wellbeing," says Dharmesh Bhayani, md of madebyzen. "Candles are an easy, convenient way to create pleasing psychological effects from the ambient aroma of fragrances, which are instantly mood-enhancing. Recent research has further confirmed that despite thousands of different fragrances available in scented candles, fragrance selection remains the leading factor for consumers in making a purchase decision for candles."

He continues: "If the consumer focus is on wellbeing, it follows that fragrances like vanilla, which is thought to promote relaxation, will remain popular. Fragrances such as ylang ylang, ginger and mint, which create a sense of calm, will also grow in popularity. The consumer is also becoming increasingly concerned about the impact on the environment and health regarding the products they use, particularly with scented candles, as there is growing awareness on the harmful effects of certain waxes and contaminants created by burning certain scented candles.�

Adds Dharmesh: "Our madebyzen Signature candles are made using an eco-friendly manufacturing process, which contain 100% refined food grade wax which is toxin free, has an extremely high fragrance content and a pure cotton wick. They have a high burn time and release clean water vapour."

Inset: The madebyzen Fresh Mint & Grapefruit Signature candle offers a bright bracing aromatic fragrance packed full of fresh, crisp mint and zesty grapefruit with hints of warming ginger.

It's A Natural 'Natural' seems to be the buzzword for candle suppliers, with many companies proud to fanfare their natural criteria. "While the candle market continues to go from strength to strength, we're finding that our customers are becoming more and more sophisticated, appreciating a good quality fragrance and a clean burning candle," says Hazel Simmons, head of design and product development at Stoneglow.

Above: Stoneglow's natural wax Red Rose fragranced candle, part of the Nature's Gift range.

Below: Vanille Infusions from Root Candles will be launched for Spring.

"We've noticed that larger candles are growing in popularity, and, with this in mind, we have launched a new super-sized gel inclusion candle in our Nature's Gift Range. These candles stand 120mm tall and contain a 30 hour inner candle packed full of fragrance. They are a cut above our standard gel candle range, and are made with beautiful botanical pieces, some sourced from exotic locations, others Continued on page 95 Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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New Range Launching April 2016

In a tranquil Tuscan piazza, under the dappled shade of almond trees, we relish the warmth of late afternoon sun.

Delicious aromas of ripening fruit are carried on the warm breeze, creating a memory we will cherish forever‌ Top Notes Black Cherry, Rosehip & Bergamot

Middle Notes Almond, Freesia & Pink Pepper

Base Notes Sandalwood, Amber Vanilla & Musk

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Spotlight On... Candles locally grown to create some truly spectacular designs."

As Hazel confirms: "Each candle is produced with our exclusive natural wax blend, which we have developed to provide an improved appearance and fragrance throw. The candles are presented in a stylish white box with silver foiling, the simplicity of which is intended to offset the dramatic candle designs."

Root Candles meanwhile, produces premium candles using an all natural beeswax blend, essential oils, and vegetable dyes, as opposed to synthetic fragrances and artificial colouring.

"We make our own natural custom cotton wicks for each fragrance, colour and size to ensure all our candles burn cleaner and for longer," says Stephen Senior, ceo of Root Candles Europe. "We see the trend for all natural candles growing in the market place, along with people wanting to protect their interior decorations by having candles that burn cleanly, and believe that this will set Root Candles in good stead for 2016. We will be introducing two new ranges at Spring Fair, the Vanille Infusions collection and the Luxe collection."

In 2016, The Country Candle Company will be introducing a soy wax candle in the company's Simply Natural collection. "It will offer a natural product with great fragrances," says director Hamish Smith.

Meanwhile, this year marks Paddywax's 20th year hand pouring artisan soy wax candles. To celebrate, the company will be launching 65 products for Spring, its largest release yet, with the candle holders designed so that they can be re-used once the last flicker has gone out.

Left: Spring Garden candle tin from The Country Candle Company.

Below: Paddywax's Botany Romance collection.

Packing A Punch According to Yankee Candle, its iconic, instantly recognisable original apothecary jars are often what attracts consumers to their candles, and remain a best seller.

As Hannah Jenkins, Yankee's brand and marketing director for EMEA points out, "we don't disguise it, or plan to for Spring. However, we do acknowledge that the popularity of home fragrance gifts continues to grow, which is why we have developed more creative and appealing packaging ideas to offer consumers a perfect gifting solution. This includes a boxed large jar which would be suitable for Valentine's Day, along with the small jar trio tins from My Serenity."

At Beefayre, where candles are made in the UK, sales and marketing director Bex Hewetson says that along with fragrance, the company is continuing to place huge importance on packaging and design.

"Customers love our play on words with bee themes, and we have had huge success with our Mummy Bee, Bee Mine and Bee Happy collections. The quality of the packaging is important to customers and we seem to appeal to a broad demographic of customer through our contemporary nature designs and colourful packaging." Adds Bex: "In addition, our 3% bee conservation donation gives these gifts extra significance.

Customers really connect with the fact they are helping the bees by buying Beefayre."

Echoing the importance of packaging, Xystos’ Tom Sykes says that it can help to sell a quality candle product, citing Acquiesse as an example. "WoodWick too, has clearly defined and recognisable branding which is a boon to retailers when it comes to product display.�

Above: A boxed large jar is part of Yankee Candle's offer for Valentine's Day. Right: Bee Mine from Beefayre.

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A QUALITY CANDLE WITHOUT EQUAL IN THE UK MARKET. BUT DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT, HERE’S WHAT COLONIAL RETAILERS SAY ABOUT THE BRAND:

“It more than holds its own against all the leading candle brands” - Hayley Roberts, Springtime Nurseries, Enfield

“Once customers buy it, they keep coming back for more”- Gillian Newby, Cardcraft, Crook “A quality product - strong, consistent fragrance and an amazingly clean burn” - Emma Gillett, Special Occasions, Castle Bromwich

S P R ING FA IR NEW LOCATION HALL 4 STAND G10-J11

BECOME A PART OF THIS EXCITING BRAND:

0161 688 1226 sales@w iddop.co .uk www.wi ddop.co .uk www.co lonialcan dle.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Candles and Fragranced gift products to be showcased this month.

New From WoodWick New collections are in the pipeline from America’s Virginia Gift Brands, the creative force behind WoodWick and the staple offering from Xystos, the home of flame and fragrance. The candle with the crackling wick already has six core fragrances confirmed for 2016 – Coconut, Honeysuckle, Lemon, Lilac, Pineapple and Rose.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand H50-J51

Warm Summer Nights

Fan-Tastic Candle Jars Village Candle are pleased to announce that they will be exhibiting in a new location at the Spring Fair, Birmingham this year. Hall 4 is the new dedicated area for Gift where we will be showcasing many new items along with a new-look, larger stand. Among the new items are electric mosaic wax melt burners available at £7.50 and Rotary Fan Candle Jar Tops at just £2.05.

Whilst all our new collections for Spring will be available immediately for delivery, we will also preview some of our new products from the Autumn/Winter 2016 collection.

Village Candle are a market leader and offer fantastic products at amazing prices to cover all your branded candle requirements. For more details on these and other exciting product collections please take a look at our website or take time to visit us at the NEC in February.

Village Candle Tel: 01254 300268 Email: sales@villagecandle.co.uk www.villagecandle.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand D50/E51

Yankee Candle reveals a new collection for Autumn 2016 which captures the essence of a balmy summer evening. Warm Summer Nights includes four new fragrances Flowers in the Sun, Passion Fruit Martini, Dreamy Summer Nights and Sunset Breeze. They will be available as gift sets and are complemented by striking accessories which combine luminance and glowing patterns, dark metals and colourful glass, adding ambience to any evening.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4D30-E31

Harvest Time Treats Yankee Candle brings Harvest Time to life with a collection of new autumnal fragrances for Autumn/Winter 2016. Honey Clementine provides a refreshing fragrance of orange dipped in honey, whilst Rhubarb Crumble conjures up memories of tangy rhubarb topped with brown sugar and vanilla taken straight from the oven. Autumn Night combines lavender and earthy woodland notes, whilst oak, pine, ebony, eucalyptus and patchouli make Ebony & Oak an elegant forest fragrance.The range is complemented by a striking collection of accessories featuring frosted glass, copper and wood.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4D30-E31

HearthWick Keeps On Giving Down the years, Virginia Gift Brands has been responsible for a number of significant breakthroughs in the candle sector which have given retailers what they most want – repeat orders. Xystos says that the range now delivering these is HearthWick, featuring gorgeous WoodWick fragances in beautiful oval vessels. These give the cosy comfort of a glowing fireplace and the sound of a crackling fire anywhere in the home.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand H50-J51 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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HAPPY

A day without laughter is a day wasted

Fun patterns, bright colours and mood-lifting fragrances make our Happy collection the jolliest of gifts. Each candle comes with a delightful quote sure to elicit a smile.

Go on, give a little happy this Spring!

– Charlie Chaplin

We ought to be opening a bottle of wine.

– Edith Wharton

THE FRAGRANCE LOUNGE Spring Fair Hall 6 Stand P44 t: 01829 730028 e:sales@thefragrancelounge.com w:thefragrancelounge.com

Hall 5, Stand C30/D31

Joe Davies in partnership with Rose & Co® in the UK

VISIT US AT THE SPRING FAIR

Joe Davies Limited, 149 Broadstone Rd, Reddish, Stockport SK5 7GA Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Candles and Fragranced gift products to be showcased this month.

Sparkling Champagne Named after the French region where these special grapes are grown, Champagne has become the quintessential celebratory beverage.

Effervescence with notes of orange zest, peach nectar and ozonics complement the berry and pear subtleties.

Root Candles Tel: 01484 850059 Email: sales@rootcandles.co.uk www.rootcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand C21

Botanical Candles

Vanille Candle Collection Unexpected combinations and fragrance blends that surprise in their elegance and sophistication. Vanilla continues to be the most preferred scent in the marketplace, from fine fragrance to candles.

Root has carefully selected six unique fragrances to blend with vanilla to create our Vanille Infusions line. Unique, unexpected, elegant.

Root Candles Tel: 01484 850059 Email: sales@rootcandles.co.uk www.rootcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand C21

Modern Classics Modern Classics, Sea Salt & Oakmoss, is a new fragrance/colourway to add to this bestselling home fragrance collection. The simple classic styling, high fragrances and unusual bottle shapes make this range a very popular choice. The new blue colour option is bang on trend, as is the wonderful salty, oceanic fragrance. The range offers a wide selection of products such as a 140ml reed diffuser, 40 hour candle and 15 hour candle as well as a room spray and gift set option.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand B20/C21

These beautiful large size gel inclusion candles feature real botanical items, some sourced from exotic locations and others locally grown. Each piece is carefully positioned to create the stunning designs and contains a high fragrance natural wax inner to be burnt. Presented in a simple, stylish white gift box with foiled print, it offsets the dramatic designs. Available in nine stunning options, the candles have been designed to complement our popular Nature's Gift reed diffusers, and will be on display alongside our other exciting new products on our biggest stand ever!

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand B20/C21

Art Collection This stylish grey vignette effect glassware will bring a touch of class to any room. Each item is packaged in a stunning box which features real watercolour artwork. This design features beautifully on trend tones of grey, amber and taupe, which perfectly complement the gorgeous scent of crystal amber, sultry musks, powdery iris and pepper. The collection features three different products: a 140ml reed diffuser, a 40 hour tumbler and an 18 hour bubble ball.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand B20/C21

Modern Apothecary Mini reed diffuser gift pack: a great gift or way to try out three of the fantastic fragrances from this award winning range in one go. Packs include three 'mini me' 40ml reed diffusers with frosted bottles. Each one is printed with their fragrance number. There are two different packs available, 13, featuring Tea Rose & Geranium, Sandalwood & Cardamom, and Grapefruit & Lime, with 4-6 featuring Lavender & Chamomile, Verbena & Spiced Woods and Geranium & Clary Sage. Each 40ml reed diffuser will last for up to four weeks.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand B20/C21 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Candles and Fragranced gift products to be showcased this month.

Fragranced Sticks Floral sticks designed to bring to life the artificial flowers with true to life fragrances. The 12 inch floral sticks with floral stakes will enhance bouquets, displays and simple posies with pure fragrance. Fragrances include the floral scents of Amber Dahlia - clean linens, fresh flowers; Provence Lavender - Summer in the South of France, lavender fields sway; White Orchid fragrant florals in bloom, butterflies abound, orchids clinging to the tree and Champagne Rose - bubbly as a crystal flute, rose petals on the bed, falling in love.

Enviroscent Email: uksales@enviroscent.com www.enviroscent.com Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand 5A23

After high demand from customers, Wax Lyrical has added a fresh take on Rose to its RHS Fragrant Garden collection. With Pantone’s two Colours of the Year 2016 in the design, Rose rounds out a strong British-made range, created in association with the Royal Horticultural Society. Innovative scented spheres and 200ml reed diffusers have also been added in all fragrances.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111, Email: customerservice@wax-lyrical.co.uk www.waxlyricaltrade.com Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand E41

Occasion Candles Pop! From New Home, Birthday Wishes and Mr & Mrs to Friendship, Thanks and Gin & Tonic we have a candle to celebrate every occasion. Hand poured in the UK ensuring a premium quality these fragranced luxury candles make the perfect gift. Enjoy responsibly.

La de da! Living Tel: (01242) 250 653 Email: enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk www.ladedaliving.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 6, Stand P41

Eden Expands Puckator’s brand new Eden range has expanded and now includes these gorgeous jar candles available in a variety of mouth watering scents.

These candles come packaged in decorative brown boxes. They are on-trend and make a perfect gift. Other items in the Eden range include fragrance oils, wax melts and essential oils.

Puckator Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C10-D11

RHS Rose

Vintage & Co The new Vintage & Co collections by Heathcote & Ivory comprise a selection of very British vintage prints, sourced from a wide range of archived mediums, up-cycled and re-worked to create two new vintage chic collections: Fabrics & Flowers and Patterns & Petals, offering an appreciation of the past, yet forward looking designs. Products range from beautifully packaged single lines such as hand cream or lip butter through to gift sets in a variety of sizes and prices. RRPs from £4.00 - £12.00.

Contains no parabens or sulfates.

Heathcote & Ivory Tel: +44 (0) 207 483 8383 Email: info@heathcote-ivory.com www.heathcote-ivory.com Spring Fair: Hall 19 & 20, Stand E04-F05

Blush Rose The latest floral range to be launched by Heathcote & Ivory is the elegant Blush Rose Collection, designed to celebrate the universally loved flowers and their addictive fragrance. Gentle blush pink complemented by the green stem of the flower, fragranced with changing rose notes and balanced with subtle strands of cassis and soft cedarwood. Comprising a selection of single lines and beautifully packaged gift sets, the RRPs range from RRP £2.50 - £11.00. Contains no parabens or sulfates.

Heathcote & Ivory Tel: +44 (0) 207 483 8383 Email: info@heathcote-ivory.com www.heathcote-ivory.com Spring Fair: Hall 19 & 20, Stand E04-F05

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Candles and Fragranced gift products to be showcased this month.

Mojito Diffuser Sweet, fresh and invigorating, Mojito puts an original spin on classic fresh and citrus notes, and ensures every hour is happy hour! Top notes of vibrant lime and juicy lemon are mixed with a heart of crisp mint leaves on a base of white rum, soft musks and verdant green leaves, creating the perfect ice-cold blend. This deliciously zesty scent is available as a 200ml reed diffuser and a 200ml diffuser refill.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand B10-C11 Ambiente: Hall 9.0, Stand A33

Simply Ceramic Perfectly balancing and combining trends in home décor and home fragrance, the new Simply Ceramic fragrance lamps’ contemporary designs and price tag both appeal to a modern audience ready to discover a new world of home fragrance and the benefits of fragrance lamps. The Spring launch includes three on trend embossed models in pastel shades, of Vintage Rose, Wicker & Weave and Olive Branch.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand B10-C11 Ambiente: Hall 9.0, Stand A33

Tantaslising Scents Xystos, the home of flame and fragrance, is introducing eight tantalising scents for 2016 from new American partner Kringle Candle, which is bidding to increase its market share in the UK. The new fragrances, which have wide customer appeal, are Egyptian Cotton, Fresh Air, Fresh Mint, Picket Fence, Spa Day, Sweet Pea, Mystic Sands and Dewdrops. RRPs are from £22.99 for the large candle to £2.49 for the wax melt and Daylight candle.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand H50-J51

"Adventure Is Worthwhile” Aesop Spring is going to be an exciting season for The Fragrance Lounge as we celebrate Paddywax’s 20th year hand-pouring artisan candles. We have lots of lovely new lines to show you including Vagabond - inspired by the thrill of adventure and exciting destinations. Tour around the world with audacious scents, stunning designs of iconic landmarks and distinguished travel quotes from Aesop to Confucius. Be adventurous and put stand 6P44 on your list of places to visit this Spring Fair!

The Fragrance Lounge Tel: 01829 730028 Email: sales@thefragrancelounge.com Spring Fair, NEC Stand Details: 6P44

Aroma Diffuser Leading home fragrance brand madebyzen has added an exciting new travel aroma diffuser, the Niko, to its already extensive and unique home fragrance range. Everyone can now take their favourite fragrances with them wherever they go in the car, or to the office, as the revolutionary technology ensures that it works effectively in a moving vehicle. It comes with a home and car adapter for use anywhere and works as an air purifier, humidifier and fragrance diffuser. madebyzen Tel: 0161 257 3524 or 0161 257 3644 Email: info@europiumworld.com www.madebyzen.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4E60-F61

Rose & Co. No.84 Joe Davies' partnership with UK made Rose & Co. is strengthened by the introduction of some lovely new fragrances and products at Spring Fair with sales already strong for Mother's Day. The entire Rose & Co. collection can be seen on Joe Davies' attractive Hall 5 stand at the very start of the gift section at Spring Fair. A warm welcome is guaranteed as Joe Davies are proud to be the recipients of 13 consecutive Greats Awards for their customer service.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand C30/31 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Face To Face: Ashleigh & Burwood

Making Scents of Christmas 2016

Spring Fair 2016 will be a series of exciting 'firsts' for home fragrancing company Ashleigh & Burwood. Along with a move to Hall 4, and a brand new stand - its biggest yet the company will also be previewing Christmas for the first time at the show, featuring warm, 'cosy up' fragrances, helpful seasonal packs and multi merchandising options.

"Shopping for Christmas with us has never been easier," confirms Steve Powell, the company's national field sales manager. So what fragranced festive 'goodies' are about to be unwrapped?

Although independent retailers have always been, and still are, the mainstay of Ashleigh & Burwood's core business, looking to Christmas 2016, the company has taken on board feedback, especially from its garden centre and department store customers, to make Christmas product available to order at the beginning of the year. "For many of these retailers, the Christmas buying window comes a lot earlier, when the previous Christmas is still fresh in their minds, and the best sellers are high on their shopping list," explains Steve Powell, the company’s national field sales manager.

With this in mind, the company has taken the decision to make February's Spring Fair the launchpad for its 2016 Christmas ranges, together with the new launches for Spring/Summer 2016. A brand new, inaugural festive area will be unveiled in Hall 4 (stand 4B10-C11), showcasing new product launches across all ranges - The Scented Home, Earth Secrets and Amora - with new developments too, in the company's fragrance Above: Steve Powell.

Inset: Simply Ceramic fragrance lamps cater to a younger demographic.

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lamps and diffusers collections, and new gift sets to encourage impulse purchases.

Fragrance lamps, for example, are being aimed at a younger purchaser, with the ontrend, textured Simply Ceramics collection, sitting alongside the original mosaic crackle design.

"We're giving retailers across the board the opportunity to plan six months ahead for Christmas 2016," highlights Steve, who joined Ashleigh & Burwood ten months ago, bringing with him experience from his 12 previous years in the home fragrance industry. "For example, seeing our Christmas ranges at Spring Fair will help to give buyers a broader picture across our home fragrance collections, and is why we decided to open our window earlier this year.

When every penny counts, buyers can advance plan

their budgets, putting money aside as relevant early in the year. Our objective is to help them to buy cleverer by managing their ranges and budgets across the seasons.

Meanwhile, from our perspective as a supplier, it means that we can plan ahead too, guaranteeing that stock will be available.�

To make shopping easier still for retailers, the company has also put together bespoke festive fragrance preorder 'packs' across all its categories and ranges. "It's the first time we've done this," continues Steve. "We want to give our customers peace of mind through being able to order the bestsellers and new products from us in advance, to secure delivery when they want it products that not only have a track record, but also products that are proven to sell through. We feel it will help to give retailers a sense of confidence when placing their orders. Product will be available to pre-order for delivery from mid August to the beginning of November, to suit the individual requirements of different buyers, from the smallest independent to the largest garden centre." (If the

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Face To Face: Ashleigh & Burwood Christmas packs are successful, going forward, other seasonal packs will be rolled out too).

But it's not all about the tried and tested. Steve is quick to add that there will be brand new products in the packs as well, with exciting surprises in store for retailers.

The company will also be unveiling more new products at Home & Gift in Harrogate in July, and at Autumn Fair in September, so that newness will continue to be an 'extra' for smaller independent buyers and larger retailers who find themselves with extra budget available.

Fragrances, have, of course, been very carefully considered, with the company launching a nostalgic, cosy Christmas scent, Log Fires, into their existing range of Christmas best sellers. There will even be a log fire on the stand at Spring Fair to reflect the ambience of the festive season, with the scent remaining a generic fragrance on the basis that people continue to want that cosy feel in their homes throughout the chilly months of January, February and March.

Meanwhile, other ways in which Ashleigh & Burwood is making it easier for retailers is

Celebrity Fan TV presenter Rylan Clark, best known for being a former finalist on the X Factor, is among the celebrity fans of Ashleigh & Burwood's fragrance lamps. With the social media side growing in importance for the company, Rylan, a follower, who has some 1.2 million followers himself, tweeted a direct message to the company to say how much he loved the lamp he received as a gift. "I'm completely obsessed," he wrote, retweeting to his followers how much he also loved the woody lamp fragrance, Amber & Tonka Bean.

It Pays To Display

Above: New product development in 2016 includes festive candles which are launching at Spring Fair.

Below right: The flexible cube stand.

Below left: The Log Fires fragrance, launching for Christmas 2016, will stay in Ashleigh & Burwood's fragrance portfolio all year round.

by listening to, and acting on, how to make the most of Ashleigh & Burwood products through in store displays. "We are very hands on with regard to how retailers want to display their stock, and have taken customer feedback very seriously," confirms Steve.

"Their views have prompted us to take traditional display methods and adapt them, with the result being that our fixtures are more ordered."

With this concept in mind, the company has launched a series of display options to include a cube destination island that can be positioned within a central area, allowing products to be viewed from all four sides. There is also a 'store within a store' illuminated boutique stand, which sits against a wall or fits into a corner, plus a recently introduced nest of display tables. A fourth option is a bespoke stand to display and demonstrate the company's range of eight, ultrasonic Amora scent hubs.

"The cube fitment is very adaptable and fits into most retail environments," explains Steve. "Garden centres especially find them really useful for display purposes, encouraging shoppers to stop and look without obscuring line of site within store.

The nest of tables meanwhile, add a

New for Ashleigh & Burwood this year is an in-house merchandising lab where the company can work through its ideas for the best possible display options in order to help retailers maximise their sales.

"We have numerous options and ideas to discuss with them," confirms Steve. "For example, with our cube unit, we can show retailers how to put it together to maximise their sales generation, which products can go where, how much product it can hold, and the sales value to them of each side of the fixture. We are continuing to think very creatively on the retailer's behalf, really trying to help them at every level, using the same format to maximise their sales in terms of our boutique stand and our tables."

The company is also delivering product information from the ground up.

"We're explaining the 'how' - how our fragrance lamps and our Amora scent hubs work, so that it makes it easy for consumers to understand the concepts."

theatrical touch, and are especially useful for displaying seasonal or year-round products.

It's basically about us as a supplier, thinking like a retailer. It's about new product development and it's about sell through and how to position products in the best possible light, with our ultimate goal to help retailers going forward."

New For Christmas 2016 Premium boxed candles will be launched in time for Ashleigh & Burwood's Christmas presell for Christmas 2016. Another 'first' for the company, the candles will be an all-important element that will be introduced into the portfolio now, to complement its Christmas 2016 collection. "Candles will fill a gap for us," enthuses Steve, "and also give consumers the opportunity to layer fragrances and formats in their home." The launch range, featuring two best-selling festive fragrances, will complement Ashleigh & Burwood's reed diffusers and fragrance lamps.

"We are advancing our product development in 2016, and our Christmas pre-sell will be very much a part of that at Spring Fair this year," comments Steve.

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Candles and Fragranced gift products to be showcased this month.

Huge Hit Best Kept Secrets, the seriously scented candles, soaps and fragranced gifts specialist, launched its new range of 12 fragranced diffusers in the last quarter to fantastic reviews and orders. They come in distinctive gift packaging, with seven coloured reeds and a newly designed cube container to make a distinctive gift with outstanding scent. Denise Edwards commented: "We have something for every occasion and these are a fantastic gift option with a great price range, with some outstanding fragrances like Classic Cotton."

Best Kept Secrets Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4B33

Summertime Limited Editions Bolsius celebrates the summer with lots of news. Next to our new home deco collections, Flower Burst and Floral Garden, we are introducing a new limited edition summer range. Bringing the summer feeling into the home are three new sophisticated fragrances: Sunny Beach, Love In The Air and Tropic Cooldown.

Bolsius Tel: +44 (0)800 169 5126. www.bolsius.com Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand G30-H31

Inspired by Italy Black Cherry & Almond is the new fragrance from Di Palomo. Including perfume, bath and body, home fragrance products and gift sets, the new range is Made in England and presented in luxurious, soft touch packaging. Supported with testers and point of sale material, the new collection is set to launch in April 2016 with pre-orders being taken from now.

Di Palomo Tel: 01803 612772 Email: debbie@dipalomo.com www.diaplomo.com

Romantic Tones To celebrate Spring, Millefiori Milano is adding a pastel themed new fragrance to its Natural range which combines the delicate scent of jasmine and the warm notes of ylang-ylang: Jasmine Ylang. Gentle floral head notes rest on aromatic and intense rosewood and patchouli, to create a sensual and intoxicating perfume. The romantic pink tone of Jasmine Ylang reflects the beauty of Spring blooms and the start of the new season. For further information please contact Katie Ellor.

Millefiori Milano Tel: 07761245276.

Email: Katie.ellor@millefiorimilano.com www.millefiorimilano.com Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4D30-E31

Natural Luxury Karma Feeling candles bring a touch of love, luxury and lust to any home.

Each scented soy candle comes in black glass and is presented in a premium re-usable trinket box.

Hand-poured in Yorkshire using 100% soy wax, Karma Feeling works with 100% ecological products. The oils and fragrances used in each candle are vegan and have not been tested on animals.

The lead free wicks used are made from cotton and are dipped in the same natural coloured soy wax used to make each candle.

Karma Feeling Tel: 07590 331 757 www.karmafeeling.co.uk Tel: (+44) 07590 331 757

Spicy & Floral Millefiori Milano has introduced an exciting, exotic new fragrance to its popular Natural line. Nero adds an aura of mystery and a touch of elegance to Millefiori’s stylish, colourful collection of reed diffusers, scented sachets and room sprays. Dark and enigmatic, the new perfume combines woody, aromatic and exotic notes to produce a warm and welcoming oriental fragrance. For further information please contact Katie Ellor.

Millefiori Milano Tel: 07761245276.

Email: Katie.ellor@millefiorimilano.com www.millefiorimilano.com Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4D30-E31 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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In Profile: Root Candles

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Which US candle company advises the White House beekeepers, has hand rolled the official Presidential candles from their beeswax, employs the No 1 beekeeper who is also the advisor to Her Majesty the Queen's Royal beekeeper, and is the world’s leading publisher of beekeeping books and magazines? The answer is Ohio based Root Candles, founded in 1869 in Medina by Amos Ives (A I) Root, known as the father of modern day beekeeping.

With Brad I Root currently at the helm - the fifth generation of the Root family to take the reins - the company took its first foray into the UK and Europe two years ago.

PG&H put Root Candles Europe's ceo Stephen Senior into the hot seat to discover what gives Root its USPs (and yes, there's more than one!)

With two new ranges - the Vanille Infusions limited edition collection and the Luxe collection - about to be unveiled in Hall 5 (stand C21) at Spring Fair in February, (see All The Fun of Spring Fair on page 109 and Spotlight On Candles on pages 8995), Root Candles Europe is currently making its mark not only in the UK but also in Europe too.

The company's main USP is that the emphasis is on being all natural. "We are the only company in the world to make our own cotton wicks which is the reason why all our candles burn with no smoke and no soot.

We make an individual wick for each candle, fragrance, size, shape and colour with the wick machines running 24/7, 365 days of the year," emphasises UK ceo Stephen

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Senior, who has spent some 27 years in the UK home fragrance industry, firstly as a retailer for 25 years, and currently as a distributor for Root Candles in the UK and Europe. (He is also proud to own an organic farm in Holmfirth, West Yorkshire,

Above: The Luxe Infusions collection.

Below: Stephen Senior, ceo of Root Candles Europe (second right). Root Candles’ President Brad I Root, is in the back row (centre).

Bottom: The Vanille Infusions collection.

where he is passionate about the environment and beekeeping).

"One of my then colleagues, Hester, who is now our general manager, asked for sample candles from Root in 2013," he explains. "We burned them, and, within days, we were on a plane to Root's HQ in Ohio to tell the senior executives how much we wanted to represent them over here," Stephen enthuses, who says he was especially impressed that Root strives to make everything natural. (Luckily for Stephen, the company was looking into how to export, so the timing couldn't have been better).

“Underlining Root’s passion for all things natural, the company uses the finest food grade natural ingredients, including natural essential oils and natural vegetable dyes," continues Stephen, "In fact, every single ingredient used is sustainable. Even the ink we use in the printing is vegetable based, and all materials have been recycled. For example, the glass containers are dishwasher safe and can be used as drinking glasses, so we are as environmentally friendly as it is possible to be."

Having spent the past two years building the company's reputation in the UK and Europe, Stephen and his team - which includes a mix of six reps and agents, and a small, tight head office staff - are growing their independent base, as well as making inroads into garden centres and visitor attractions. "The type of retailers we're looking for are those that care, those who are passionate about natural ingredients, beeswax and the environment, such as London based, wellness multiple As Nature Intended. Chester Zoo,

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In Profile: Root Candles

Root Candles: The Lowdown l Root Candles was founded 147 years

which has been a conservation charity since 1934, is another good example." (See Animal Crackers on pages 68-69).

Continues Stephen, "Our holistic wellness candle range is going into the pharmacy channel, and we also have excellent garden centres on board to include Bybrook Barn Garden Centre and Hayes Garden Centre in Ambleside. These type of retailers are happy to wave the flag about our candles being natural, and it's this USP that makes us stand out on the shelf, instead of us being just another candle company. Their customers also love to learn about the company's history and provenance."

Stephen is also proud to point out that Root Candles is instrumental in setting the standard for the candle industry worldwide.

"Our Quality Control Board sits on the USA's National Candle Association Board, so we can say, quite accurately, that we are 'the

Above: Wild Strawberry, a new Spring/Summer fragrance.

Below: Circa 1916, A I Root is shown driving his Baker electric car.

best candle is America since 1869'. No-one can argue with that. Our natural candles burn cleaner and brighter."

In fact, yet another USP Root has, is that it pours its wax cold. "Everything is folded and blended, and only sets when it goes into a container," points out Stephen. “That allows us to maximise the fragrance impact of every product we make.�

So where does he see the UK/European arm of the company in, say, one to three years time? "In the shorter term, we are looking to appoint more field staff and to increase our European reach. At the moment, we have distributors in Scandinavia, Italy and Malta, but we will be actively targetting new territories in the coming year.

But my main goal is to grow the business 40-50% year on year across the board. If we hit that target, then we can start to manufacture Root Candles in the UK too."

In the longer term, he hopes, along with Root Candles' President, Brad I Root, to create a museum at the company's premises in Medina Ohio. "It will serve as a testament to the company's history and will feature everything from chandlers that make candles by hand to state-of-the-art robot production lines."

In the meantime, Stephen is looking forward to strong growth in 2016. "The

All The Fun Of Spring Fair As sponsors of 25,000 Spring Fair bags, made from recycled paper, Root Candles will be making its presence felt the moment that people walk through the doors of the NEC in February.

As with previous Spring and Autumn Fairs, there will be a honeycomb display at the entrance to Hall 5, with retailers invited to visit the stand to take back a candle sample. They will also be invited to join the company for a glass of bubbly at the stand's champagne bar.

"Our stand will be twice as large as last year, and we will be merchandising products to show the different display options," explains Stephen. "Our 'natural' message will be reflected in the rustic appearance, and the materials we have chosen, to include reclaimed natural wood and grass matting. And we will, of course, be taking our beehive to the show with us."

Adding gravitas will be three of the company's most senior American executives, President Brad I Root, ceo Rex Mason and director of marketing & retail operations, Heather DeRosha.

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ago by A I Root, a Professor of Electricity, beekeeper, honey manufacturer, publisher, innovator and entrepreneur.

He was a friend of the Wright Brothers, publishing the first account of their flight when others remained sceptical.

He was also a humanitarian, and lifelong friend of deaf/blind American Helen Keller.

A I Root was also an early advocate of electric cars. At the turn of the 19th century, he used wind power to recharge the batteries.

To this day, the company continues to be wholly family owned and still operates from the original HQ in Medina, Ohio, with A I Root's books and magazines, including the ABC and XYZ of Bee Culture and Bee Culture magazine, continuing to be published.

In the 1920s, the Root brand of honey was known to be the finest table grade honey there was. Its honey and beeswax enterprise eventually turned to candle making in 1928, at the request of a local Catholic priest looking for high quality, natural candles.

Today, church candles represents 60% of the company's business, with Root Candles using a fifth of the world's beeswax.

At its American HQ, the company employs three organic chemists, and five members in its fragrance development team. Five fragrance houses are also used to ensure Root is continually aware of on trend fragrances.

Candles cost from 10 cents to $1000 for a Pascal candle.

home fragrance market is very buoyant and will continue to grow. And I believe that we'll see the demand for natural, clean burning candles growing at a faster rate," he predicts. "Root Candle has so many USPs and statements that we want to get that across to people. In America, we have a tag line that says, 'once you burn a Root candle, you will never burn another brand', and that's a message we intend to drive home very strongly over the coming years.

It is not about the here and now. It is about building something for the next generation and bees are the future."

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The power of colour and Fragrance in one holistic candle, for a greater sense of health and well being.

We would love you to come and visit us at the Spring Fair and join us for a drink at our Champagne Bar. Hall 5, Stand C21 For more information please contact or email our sales team.

Tel: 01484 850059 email: sales@rootcandles.co.uk Follow us: facebook Twitter & Instagram

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InProfile: Kaemingk

It's Getting To Feel A Lot Like Christmas For over 75 years, Netherlands based Kaemingk, one of Europe's largest seasonal decoration companies, has been an innovative global partner, renewing at least 65% of its Christmas offer year-on-year.

PG&H asked Stefan Koldeweij, senior account manager for the UK & Ireland, which trends retailers should be on the lookout for as a new Christmas season unfolds.

For the team of 20 buyers at Kaemingk, it's definitely Christmas all year round. "They constantly travel the world searching for new ideas, materials, colours and products," explains Stefan. And when you consider that the company's Christmas ranges offer over 12,000 products - varying from Christmas baubles, tree decorations, Christmas and interior lighting, trees wreaths and garlands, as well as candles and gifts - it's clear that it's a full time job! "The ranges are reviewed and renewed every year to ensure we offer the very latest trends," Stefan confirms.

"Products offer value for money, helping retailers to gain a point of difference."

The Christmas 2016 collection, which is brimming with inspirational display features, is presented in the company's spacious 54,000 sq ft showroom in Aalten in the Netherlands that certainly has the 'wow' factor. For Christmas 2016, the company has created a completely new layout to showcase its products, with retailers guaranteed to find not only the latest themes, but also ideas for in-store merchandising.

Regardless of the time of year and the temperature outside, visitors are immediately transported to a winter wonderland that can't help but get them into the Christmas spirit.

There's everything from massive, statement displays to the tiniest Christmas tree accessories, with the focus based around the home and the garden. Themed colour displays,

merchandised in separate 'rooms', provide inspiration, with stockists encouraged to buy into a specific 'look' for the festive season.

"Christmas 2016 is a larger offer than our Christmas 2015 collection," Stefan states, "renewed by almost 70% in comparison to last season.

It's very important to us that visitors can see something new each time they visit. For example, we will be offering a wider range of authentic artificial trees in our Everlands tree

Above: Stefan Koldeweij, senior account manager for the UK & Ireland.

Inset: Getting away from it all.

Misty Lake

This theme focuses on a beautiful house decorated for Christmas in serene winter scenery with a view over the lake. The ambience reflects a peaceful Christmas away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

How Many Bulbs Does It Take To Light A Christmas Tree? l A 6ft tree takes a set of 750 bulbs; l A 7ft tree takes a set of 1,000 bulbs.

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SEASONAL DECORATIONS • CHRISTMAS LIGHTING • FLORISTRY CHRISTMAS TREES, WREATHS AND GARLANDS • GLASS BAUBLES

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InProfile: Kaemingk range such as the Nobilis and Nordman, to include floating trees and giant outdoor trees."

(All trees come with a 12 year guarantee).

The new 2016 collection also reveals a bigger lighting range. Lumineo Christmas lighting will be a big feature, with over 1,500 lighting items that include novelty and core ranges such as the Durawise battery operated, 1-2 glow lighting concept that lights up a Christmas tree within five minutes. Other lighting products buyers will find include the brand's compact, cluster and core LED ranges and lit villages.

Christmas Time

Focusing on a family estate up in the hills this theme recreates a traditional country barn. A red sleigh next to the barn, fully packed with presents, indicates that his is where the family will be gathering for its Christmas celebrations.

Above: A family Christmas.

Above right: A festive barbecue puts another twist on Christmas.

"We're also unveiling new, majestic styles, with micro LED lights for our pre-lit tree ranges, as well as motion within the retail presentation," highlights Stefan.

There is also a concept store for Christmas lighting as well as a separate one for our floral/silk ranges. Plus, there will be a more extensive and exclusive range of dinnerware and kitchen goods."

As you would expect, there are inspiring display features for each theme, as well as for each main product category, to enable customers to take these ideas on board for their own Christmas 2016 displays.

However, if Aalten is a bit far to go for Christmas shopping, Kaemingk also makes sure it has a very visible presence at the major trade shows, both in Europe and the UK. "In addition to our main showroom in the Netherlands, in January and February, we will also have a major presence at Christmasworld in Frankfurt, the Christmas & Gift Fair in Harrogate and at Spring Fair in Birmingham," points out Stefan. (The company will also be returning to Autumn Fair in Birmingham in September with its Spring/Summer ranges).

Stefan is particularly looking forward to the shows this year, as the company will be unveiling a stunning new stand layout which will be showcasing nine different themes for Christmas 2016 to include Misty Lake, Christmas Time, Into The Woods and Pure and Warm.

"We cater for customers all over Europe and have therefore built a range that reflects the demand," comments Stefan. "With growth in both the UK and Ireland market places, our range sets out to accommodate the needs of our stockists across the board."

Into The Woods

It may be Christmas, but this theme highlights a winter barbecue in a country holiday retreat located in a forest. It invites friends and family to celebrate together and enjoy a taste of the good life.

So what does he feel is continuing to drive growth for the company? "The interest from gift shops and department stores has definitely increased compared to last year, with plenty of opportunities to expand further still. We will therefore be continuing to concentrate on these markets."

As Stefan and his team get ready to transport the Kaemingk 2016 Christmas collection to Christmas & Gift and Spring Fair, he says that customer feedback is already extremely positive, with Christmas sales up on last year. "We're feeling very confident that 2016 will be another strong one for the UK across lifestyle, home and gift," he states.

Kaemingk: The Lowdown

l Kaemingk has one of the biggest showrooms in Europe, with

additional showrooms in Germany and Belgium. l As well as items for Christmas, the company has also built

up a reputation in home decoration for Valentine's Day, Easter and Spring/Summer. l Eight warehouses cover 70,000 sq ft, with products distributed in Aalten. l Over 23,000 sea containers are handled every year for distribution to customers in over 30 countries in Europe and globally.

Pure and Warm

An old ranch house with 'rough' elements, such as plastered walls, wooden beam ceiling, conÂŹcrete columns and an old authentic wooden floor overlooking the wild meadow grasslands, has elements Navajo Indians in the contemporary, robust home decorations.

Left: Warm candlelight, long pile plaids and a natural tree create an entirely new look for Christmas.

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Jewellery/Fashion Accessories

Perfectly Pretty Jewellery is all set to be about colour for Spring/Summer, with the big and the bold vying with the dainty and the pretty. Dusty pinks and purples, along with blues and lilacs, are going to be a big colour trends say suppliers, with personalisation still a strong theme.

No matter how much jewellery someone owns, there's always the impulse to go on buying more. It's a great gift to give, and a great self-purchase, with jewellery having the power not only to add statement and style, but also the feelgood factor no matter how the economy is performing!

With soft colours and strong patterns in the frame this year, more companies than ever are pushing the boundaries.

"Vintage dusky pink - think Farrow & Ball Calamine - is trending through fashion accessories for Spring/Summer 2016, teamed with our growing appetite for subtle gold accents," says Alex Machin, director, Hot Tomato. "This really is a very pretty feminine look," she highlights. "Historically, we have tended to be a nation of die-hard silver wearers, but this is now definitely being challenged. Look for transitional pieces combining gold and silver that help nudge us towards this warmer palette."

Following Joe Davies' Equilibrium Three Tone collection, the company will be launching two fresh new, on trend

colourways: Warm Tones, featuring pretty pinks and purples finished in rose gold, and Cool Tones, a combination of blues and lilacs plated with real silver.

A further two brand new collections for Spring/Summer feature luxurious new packaging to enhance the brand, giving it a whole new look. “Vintage style is a very popular trend in fashion, and to ensure Equilibrium is at the forefront we will be launching our new Vintage Collection featuring elegant, ornate jewellery, reminiscent of a bygone era, giving an opulent look to the range," says buyer Mary Richards. Also new from the company will be modern, colourful birthstone bangles, another new Equilibrium collection, launching into the company's luxury collection.

At Miss Milly, colour is back with a vengeance, ranging from ice cream pastels to hot tropicals. "We adore colour and have taken this trend fully on board by introducing new lines in our pastel-led Amora Collection, with shimmering lilacs and aquas, alongside a bouquet of hot pinks, vivid turquoises and lush limes in our flagship Floria Collection," comments md Sarah Watts. "Oceans and the sea will also be a big influence on fashion next Spring and we have incorporated a range of blues across all our collections as well as different finishes including iridescence and metallics to represent the look of water."

Left: Featuring the trends for Spring/Summer, an armful of bracelets from Hot Tomato.

Below: A pink Hot Tomato wraparound bracelet featuring a gold accent.

In terms of designs, Chris Holden, designer and director at PoM, points to geometrics and simple shapes, which she says will continue to inspire this Spring. "We'll be using mellow golds and subtle textures to soften bold forms, creating a warmer, more feminine jewellery collection and will echo this too in our scarf range, where being bold really works. Again, being clever with colour and using super soft fabrics will soften this very striking look."

Carrie Shapiro, creative director at Carrie Elspeth, points to consumer trends which still favour products made in the UK, with very little social or environmental

Above right: Miss Milly soft aqua earrings from the Amora collection.

Left: Joe Davies' Warm Tone jewellery from its Equilibrium collection.

Right: Geometric shapes have influenced PoM's new Spring ranges.

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Proud to be part of Summerhouse!

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Hall 8 Stand A19, Spring Fair NEC 7th -11th February 2016

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Jewellery/Fashion Accessories

Trendspotting: Jewellery l l l l l l l

Pink and blue colourways Gold accents Gold and silver combinations Yellow gold Layering: bracelets and necklaces Stacking: bracelete Personalisation

Far left: Carrie Elspeth's double strand Satin Hearts necklace.

Above left: A Druzy ring from Balagan, part of the company's Natural Collection.

Left: Long necklaces will be trending in 2016 says Dansk.

Below right: New for Spring 2016, a jewellery gift card from La de da! Living.

Below left: Light Coeur from Coeur de Lion.

a place on the high street, but many catwalks have displayed a more delicate touch this year, with the revival of pearls and demure sparkle heralding a return to a more classical beauty style of adornment."

German jewellery brand Coeur de Lion too, has also gone for pale pretty colourways and pearls. "Once again the catwalk has shown an increase in the use of pastel shades, such as rose pinks, mint greens and aqua blues," says founder and designer Carola Eckrodt. "I have taken these delicate shades and combined them with pearls and shells to create bold yet feminine jewellery which is ideal for the summer months. However, by contrast, I have drawn on the bright and bold summery colours seen in the catwalk shows across Europe and created bold designs for my new collection Fresh Coeur.

footprint. "Our jewellery has always been handmade in Wales, a significant factor which buyers take into consideration," she states.

Looking to product trends, she says that crystals, florals and layers of soft, sophisticated pastels will be among the hot trends this Spring, with an emphasis on detail, femininity and strength. "Bold, brassy statement pieces will always have

Continued on page 119

Quirky In Silver For the past year, Amanda Angless, creative director and founder of One Button, has been working on a boutique, 925 real sterling silver collection which retains the brand's much loved quirky personality.

"All the pieces have wobbly bits, it's great fun and no-one has anything like it as I hand draw it all, and we cast, make and polish in our own tiny silver studio using 18ct gold," Amanda explains.

The pieces originate from Amanda's sketches taken from inspiration gathered far and wide. "Each item comes boxed and is part of a collection of long and short necklace, bracelet and earrings," she highlights.

Below: Love Boat is part of One Button's brand new 925 silver collection.

That Personal Touch Personalisation is continuing apace, with people wanting to put their own stamp on their personal belongings, to include jewellery, say suppliers.

"Jewellery for 2016 will continue to play a huge part within the gift industry," underlines Dominique Fracasso-Stroud, co-director of La de da! Living. "As always, keeping it personal to the consumer is key which is why every range we design keeps this in mind. Our bracelet greeting cards, launching at Spring Fair, combine a jewellery gift and card in one making it all the more special to give and receive."

At Kit Heath, collectability and personalisation have been strong trends for the company over the past year, and will be continuing through 2016. "Everyone wants to find that perfect, unique gift for their loved one, friend or as a treat for themselves - something that shows their personality, which will further be seen in the jewellery world this season," says creative director Katie Nickell. “Monogram or initials jewellery also has a growing presence in the fashion market and, to satisfy this trend, we will be launching an array of initials giving customers the opportunity to personalise their own piece of jewellery," highlights Joe Davies' buyer Mary Richards.

The collection, incorporating both necklaces and bracelets, will be a key feature of the Equilibrium Spring/Summer range and will be displayed on a counter stand, helpful for retailers with limited space.

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Jewellery/Fashion Accessories Meanwhile, introducing Druzy stones tiny quartz crystals - will be Balagan. "This is a bright, colourful natural collection, perfect for layering," says md Rachel Parkin.

Scandi chic, continues to be big news, with Danish jewellery company Dansk Smykkekunst's Spring/Summer Collection including three new ranges: a colour collection, a leather collection and a haematite collection.

"In Denmark, the big trend this season is to wear stylish long necklaces with simple plain T shirts and jackets,” explains Dansk's design and concept manager Malene Storm.

The company's new leather collection incorporates black and tan fake crocodile leather, with necklaces in long and short lengths using supple leather with metal detailing to create a dramatic look.

“Another big trend in Scandinavia in 2016 will be jewellery that is either very large and eye-catching or very light and

It's A Wrap Scarves are the hero product of many a gift shop, with customers walking out with armfuls either as gifts or for themselves.

"Geometrics with a soft colour palette and metallic detailing are coming through strongly and there’s a strong Scandi look replacing some of the vintage inspired prints that we did so well with in previous seasons," says Kate Muncaster, creative director at The House of Disaster. "You can see this with a collection such as our Arm Candy range which is much a cleaner look design wise, and which we expect to do well in 2016."

Kate adds that certain new icons and looks are starting to trend as well, such as the Hot Air Balloon print on the company's Penny Black collection. "It was really strong in the run up to Christmas, and we expect

Ancient Traditions

According to Katie Nickell, creative director at Kit Heath, yellow gold detailing has given rose gold a run for its money, which she says will continue into 2016. "We have carried this through into our Heritage designs where Above: A Celtic design Celtic knot, symbolism and meaning in from Kit Heath. general is enjoying a revival," she adds. The company's Heritage designs take inspiration from classic Celtic themes and motifs, a contemporary slant on ancient traditions based on themes of love, friendship, loyalty and eternal life.

"Our Spring/Summer 2016 collection features charm bangles and bracelets to layer and stack which is a strong trend for wristwear," Katie highlights. delicate," explains Malene, "with marble effect designs very popular.”

For the new Spring/Summer collection, the company has also designed fine pieces using synthetic stones in turquoise and navy blue with gold. Drawing on Grecian influences, the new designs include delicate chain necklaces, which can also be worn in a number of ways. "They can be layered

and combined with other necklaces to develop a stylish look," Malene points out.

For jewellery lovers, either as gift givers or jewellery wearers, clearly there's a lot to choose from over the next season.

Be it pink and pretty, something 'cool' for warmer days or Scandi chic, it's certainly going be a colourful and varied start to the new year!

Left: Among the new geometric scarf designs from The House of Disaster.

Right and below: Hot Tomato's wristies.

Bottom: An Aztec bag from Dansk Smykkekunst.

this to still sell through well into Spring," says Kate.

Scandinavian Dansk Smykkekunst launched its first bag and scarf collection two years ago. This year, the collection will include designs in various sizes, such as holdalls, shoulder bags, clutch and toiletry bags in either black and white Aztec designs or suede/nylon bags in simple shades such as black, beige and navy blue.

"Our new scarf collection focuses on texture this season," explains design and concept manager Malene Storm. "Designs include intricate stitching to creature more texture with the designs available in soft pastel shades or in strong vibrant shades, such as Moroccan inspired scarves in orange or red shades."

The collection also includes scarves in neutral earth tones, such as browns and beiges, with the scarf design crimpled, again adding more texture to the look. Additional accessories

Trendspotting: Scarves l l l l l l

Geometric patterns Metallic detailing Texture Skinny scarves Fabric ties/wristies Watches with large faces

in the collection are colourful fashion watch designs. The watches have large faces which Malene says are a big trend for the coming season.

Meanwhile, Alex Machin, director, Hot Tomato, says that textiles are transforming too. "Watch out for skinny scarves making a comeback, with simply crafted embellishments through beadwork and crochet - think 1970’s rock chick," says Alex. She adds that pretty co-ordinating fabric ties/wristies will also enhance the look, which can be worn layered with other favourites, or simply used to embellish a bag. "It’s all about being versatile and creating individuality," she states.

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest in Jewellery & Fashion Accessories gift products to be showcased this month.

Celebrating Colour & Light Carrie Elspeth’s gorgeous new collection for Spring 2016 is a celebration of colour and light. These elegant new ranges are a masterclass in beauty and subtlety, blending Carrie’s much-loved style with a delicacy of touch that sets them apart.

Alongside the Spring Collection are additions to Carrie’s Colourbands, introducing three adorable charms making this range the perfect gift. All of Carrie’s jewellery continues to be lovingly handmade in Wales.

Carrie Elspeth Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com www.carrieelspeth.com Spring Fair: Hall 19 Stand 19C20-D21

Sparkling New Collections We are launching beautiful new jewellery, with fine chain detailing and an expanded freshwater pearl selection, including combining pearl with leather. We focus on attractive designs with competitive pricing, allowing for great margins. Try our Eliza Gracious gift packaging and display stands.

Benefit from no minimum order at shows, free branded packaging for orders over £200 and free delivery over £300. All stock items are delivered within two working days.

Eliza Gracious Tel: 07767 785822 www.elizagracious.com Spring Fair: Hall 19, Stand C15

Danish Delights

Layering & Mixing Hot Tomato’s broad appeal continues with its latest collection: "2016 is about being versatile, about creating originality through layering and mixing," says Alex Machin, director at Hot Tomato. "We are witnessing the moment where jewellery and textiles collide. Scarves are narrower, embellished and can be easily mixed. Smaller scale co-ordinating textiles emphasise the look further, while handbags capture that ‘reworked’ vibe. This is an exciting time where everything is less formal and far more easy-going."

Hot Tomato Tel: 01225 422188 Email: sales@hot-tomatouk.com www.hot-tom.com

Swarovski Crystal Wild Things Gifts are expanding their jewellery range. Pictured is a sterling silver angel necklace set with a Swarovski crystal. It is featured in their new catalogue and website which include nature themed sterling silver earrings and necklaces.

Available from the website or by requesting a catalogue via email or phone.

Wild Things Tel: 01392 211268 Email: sales@wildthingsgifts.com www.wildthingsgifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand C61

The award winning Danish brand, Dansk Smykkekunst, launches its new S/S 2016 collection at Spring Fair 2016. The new collection is strongly influenced by Scandinavian style. A new range, Philippa, is a fine jewellery collection made from synthetic stones in turquoise and navy blue shades.

Dansk Smykkekunst’s successful bag, scarf and watch collections will also return again this season in new designs and shades. The entire collection will be available to view at The Jewellery and Watch Show at the NEC, Birmingham.

P & A Agencies Tel: 0161 653 1586 Email: info@pa-agencies.co.uk www.dansksmykkekunst.dk Spring Fair: Hall 18, Stand A14-B15

Shimmering Metallic Miss Milly, the British brand for gorgeous jewellery and scarves, is launching a plethora of new lines in on-trend, seasonal colours. Look out for pastels and tropical brights, including shimmery iridescent and metallic resins. Choose from best-selling pieces, floral designs and gift sets. Fantastic prices and great quality backed up by an efficient, friendly service, you can order at the shows or online now. Branded packaging and display stands available.

Miss Milly Tel: 01905 622509 Spring Fair: Hall 19, Stand C18

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Carrie Elspeth EXCLUSIVE

DESIGNER

HANDMADE

IN

JEWELLERY

WALES

Come and see our brand new Spring Collection & new additions to mycolourbands.

Spring Fair, NEC, Stand 19C20 - D21 NEW

e sales@carrieelspeth.com | t 01446 771271 | w www.carrieelspeth.com

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Jewellery & Watch Birmingham NEC 7th - 11th February, Hall 18 Stand D40

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest in Jewellery & Fashion Accessories gift products to be showcased this month.

Bracelet Cards They say your name defines who you are... now you can say it with our new bracelet cards. Each silver plated initial bracelet is delicately attached to a greeting card which defines the persons best qualities. A present and card in one... the perfect combination!

RRP £14.99 La de da! Living Tel: (01242) 250 653 Email: enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk www.ladedaliving.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 6, Stand P41

Silver Collection Vintage Birthstone One of this year's Equilibrium highlights is a brand new vintage collection. The series is beautifully presented in new, round, retro boxes and the designs are right on trend. Don't miss the new vintage birthstone bracelets as well as hundreds of more new Equilibrium jewellery and fashion accessory items. Building up an eye-catching collection of Equilibrium jewellery is easy and inexpensive using Joe Davies trademark Little & Often ordering system.

The minimum order is just £100.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 675 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand C30/31

Love Boat is part of our brand new and stunning 925 silver collection. Retaining the much loved quirky personality, our boutique 925 silver collections are hand crafted in our own studio using 925 sterling silver, oxidised silver and plated 18ct gold. Trade prices from £24.00 One Button Tel: 0116 279 3715 Email: info@onebuttonuk.com www.onebuttonuk.com Spring Fair: Hall 20 Stand G40 Jewellery & Watch: Hall 18, Stand G46

Scarf Hanger Hand Crafted Jewellery Spring sees PoM add more beautiful designs to their stunning collection. From simple geometrics through to intricate Celtic and nature inspired designs. All beautifully hand crafted in sterling silver, silver plate or mellow rose gold, even through to their well loved scarf range. What a delightful way to start the year.

Peace of Mind Tel: 01225 777749 Email: sales@pom925.com www.pom925.com Spring Fair Hall 19 Stand F20-G21

Black Ginger will be launching their biggest ever range of new products including bags, purses, Britishmade jewellery from designer Isabella Grace, clocks, men’s gifts, frames, scarves, coasters and of course...scarf hangers...now starting at just 60p. Visit the stand at the Spring Fair to see all the new products and also take advantage lots of show offers.

Black Ginger Tel: +44 (0)118 940 3731 Email: info@blackginger.co.uk www.blackgingertrade.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 7, E31

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Introducing a fabulous new collection of exclusive gifts for boys and girls.

MEMORY GAMES

TOOTH FAIRY CUSHIONS

HEIGHT CHARTS

SKIPPING ROPES

DOORSTOPS

DOMINOES

LOCKABLE NOTEBOOKS WITH SCENTED PENS

JIGSAWS

ALSO GLOW IIGLOW ININTHE THE DARK AS DARKAS WELL LIGHT UP!

GLITTERED DETAILS

INCLUDES CANDY FLOSS SCENTED PEN

LIGHT UP CANVASES

Come and see us at the following shows: Nuremberg Toy Fair. 27th Jan - 1st Feb 2016 (Hall 1 Stand G-05) NEC Spring Fair. 7th - 11th Feb 2106 (Hall 5 Stand G27)

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Spotlight On... Children’s/Nursery

Toying Around

Nursery and children's products have become a big trend within gift shops, with everything from personalised gifts to licensed and general giftware encouraging yummy mummies to pop in to buy gifts for school friends, new babies and christenings on their way to and from the school gates.

So what's new for this year? PG&H reverted back to childhood days to play with the latest toys from some of the leading suppliers.

For many suppliers, there is still mileage to be gained from retro products, with gift shops differentiating themselves from the supermarkets, department stores and multiples by avoiding the heavily advertised toys, instead tapping into the mood for nostalgia.

"Toys, games and puzzles is an increasingly important category for us which we have plans to develop much further," says Jon Cameron, md of Wild and Wolf.

"We have seen our Ridleys toys and games brand really ‘grow up’ and achieve very significant growth in the last year, despite an increasingly crowded market. In the end, as ever, innovation in both product and packaging will bring success to those that put their energy into it - make it fun and make it relevant."

At House of Marbles, the company's Lauren Woodsford, sales, comments that the company is seeing a growing market for activity and stationery kits, with more parents choosing products that are not only fun, but have an added educational element. "With TV, computer games and so many other distractions for children, customers are really turning to toys that help promote creativity and stimulate the imagination.

Also, toys and games with a very vintage feel continue to be hugely popular,

appealing to parents and grandparents who wish to reminisce and share the fun toys they enjoyed playing with as a child."

This year, the company will be adding in a variety of children’s sewing and build your own kits that have a retro feel, with appeal to all ages, and will also be launching a Tiddlytots range for a child’s early years, to include a fun collection of pull along wooden toys. Other popular products include chunky nursery rhymes board books and an outdoor play collection. "We are also introducing our biggest windmill to date, expanding our Adventurer’s camping range and introducing a brand new stunt kite so that children can get up and go whatever the weather,” adds Laura.

"Animals continue to be all the rage in the children’s market," emphasises Piers Croke, sales director at Gisela Graham.

"Babies get offered horses and elephants, especially in pinks and blues. Meanwhile, wild British and tropical animals are 'in' for toddlers upwards, especially foxes and owls.

Pirates are most definitely 'in' for boys, where we have a new pirate range for Spring. For girls, it’s princesses and fairies – pink of course - with unicorns. So we’re hoping for a double whammy with our new Fairy Princess range that features unicorns!"

Above and right: House of Marbles' colourful pull along horse and stripy windmill.

Top: A Ridleys Boules set and colourful hoola hoop from Wild & Wolf.

Above: Gisela Graham's Ballerina children's collection.

At Signature Gifts, the company sees the main trend as the exclusivity of gifts.

"Customers don’t seem to mind paying a little extra as long as the gift is a more premium quality," says Kat Grant, trade marketing communications administrator, "and we plan to take advantage of this by extending our range of premium gifts.

Recently we released our most popular children’s titles, including educational books, in our premium embossed cloth covers, which adds value in the customer’s eyes and makes the gift more special than a standard personalised book. Going forward, we are also offering special ‘just for you’ embossed gift boxes for our books which will add an extra element of extravagance."

Nursery products meanwhile, are continuing to ring up sales for gift indies.

"The children’s market continues to evolve subtly over the years," says Sue Grant, marketing manager of Widdop and Co. “My first... is a big trend, building on the evergreen favourites of My first curl and tooth, My first Birthday, My first Christmas and even a keepsake box for My first outfit.

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Toys t f o S e l b H e at a WARM ME IN A MICROWAVE The perfect bed-time companion.

Warm in a microwave e to soothe, relax and comfort ort

See us at the Spring Fair, Hall 5 G10/H11 or visit www.intelex.co.uk Progressive Gifts Advert - Intelex.indd 1

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Spotlight On... Children’s/Nursery

Boxes for storing precious keepsakes continue to remain popular, but now keepsakes are coming out of the box and onto the wall with peg collage frames.

Keepsakes are no longer being shoved in a drawer," she emphasises.

Sue says that interactive gifts are strong favourites too, especially light up plaques fitted with a motion sensor. "Our night light casts a soft light and turns off automatically after a couple of minutes," she adds.

Lesser & Pavey believes there is a firm market for quality, fun, practical items that encompass the joy of a new little one. "Baby for Lesser & Pavey is about traditional items with traditional themes," explains md Julian Hunt. "Our in-house designers produced Little Sunshine which can be for either boys or girls, featuring illustrations of a giraffe in a multitude of baby colours." (The range comprises an egg cup set, gift bags, keepsake boxes, storage box, money box, clock for the nursery wall, baby birth or naming certificate holder and lunch bag for baby’s lunch). Continues Julian: "It sits alongside other traditional ranges, such as pure white christening lines as well as naming gifts."

Above: Personalised children's books from Signature Gifts.

Below: Widdop and Co.'s Bambino collection.

Interiors have evolved too, with suppliers looking to tap into the current trends. At Joe Davies, the company points to shabby chic moving into the nursery, with home decor trends playing an increasingly important part in nursery decoration. "More traditional silver plated and plush gifts still sell well, but there is a plethora of choice out there for baby and nursery gifts," says md Steve Davies. "We've seen strong sales of our Provence series of lime-washed, pale pink and blue frames, boxes and accessories, and at Spring Fair, we will be introducing a brand new series of light up words and a series of plush animals and baby blankets in soft non-traditional colourways."

Nursery company babybundle concurs that today’s parents are no longer faced with the limited choice of pink or blue nursery décor or gender specific cartoon characters.

"Subtle hues and sophisticated gender

Above: Safebreathe Patch and Hoppy from babybundle recently won a Progressive Preschool Award in the Best Preschool Gift Range category.

Below left: Little Sunshine from Lesser & Pavey.

Below: Provence Baby from Joe Davies.

neutral colour schemes rule," says md Helen Westmoreland. New products from the company include Safebreathe SleepiSac, a breathable sleeping bag from its awardwinning SafeDreams range, with complementary soft toys, Patch and Hoppy, made using the same layered mesh fabric.

As always, when friends and family buy gifts for babies and children they tend to dig deep, with a myriad of giftware on offer to ensure that there's plenty of choice.

Licensed Giftware As the licensed sector continues to grow year on year, nursery and children's products have long been among the front runners. "I think licensed and branded products will remain at the forefront," says Helen Shield, director of marketing at Enesco. "We are therefore extremely excited to be launching our new Beatrix Potter range of eco-friendly children’s dinner sets which are made from bamboo melamine, and packaged in recycled craft card packaging."

At Rainbow Designs, md Anthony Temple highlights that branded and licensed products are an important, established and growing part of the baby and nursery market, with brands from both the publishing and entertainment worlds becoming an ever increasing part of the industry. "In addition to these classic brands, there is also a strong trend of nursery plush emerging born of entertainment properties," comments Anthony. "2015 saw the successful launched of our new Peppa Pig for Baby collection and this Spring we will be bring to market a complete new Miffy for Baby collection."

Above: Enesco's new Beatrix Potter collection.

Right: Rainbow's new Miffy For Baby.

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Children/Nursery gift products to be showcased this month.

Party Games

Walt Disney Archives The launch of this exciting new collection celebrates the rich history and superb artistry of Disney with seven prestigious limited edition figurines, reproduced from the original film maquettes which are preserved in the Walt Disney Archives. Maquettes, three-dimensional character models of Disney characters, are used by animators as a way to study crucial angles, reveal play of light and shadow and to clarify issues of perspective. Each figurine is presented with a storycard revealing the magical history behind the original maquette.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4H90-J91

Shortlisted in the branded or character category of Gift of the Year is this classic collection of 50 old-fashioned party games to be played inside, outside or around the table. Riding the wave of current popularity for the brand, The Lagoon Group will be doubling its Ladybird Books’ range at Spring Fair when it will be launching more Mini Jigsaws, some 256-piece Ladybird Montage Jigsaws, Ladybird Classic Card Games, A Ladybird Magnetic Fishing Game, a Ladybird Knot Tying Kit and a Ladybird Parafoil Pocket Kite.

The Lagoon Group Tel: 020 8 563 6520 Email: sales@thelagoongroup.com www.thelagoongroup.com Spring Fair Hall 6, Stand L44-M45

Fresh New Collections Rainbow Designs' Air Puppy collection is certain to be a firm favourite at Spring Fair with Rainbow also previewing their brand new Air Puppy Nursery Collection. Additions to Rainbow’s new Big Box range of products are the new Large Activity Playmats featuring in many of their nursery collections including Guess How Much I Love You. Also new to the Guess How Much I Love You Collection will be a set of Illustrated Stacking Blocks and the feature plush, Peekaboo Nutbrown Hare.

Rainbow Designs Tel: 01329 227300 Email: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand F06 – G07

New Children’s Brand

Children’s Giftware Puckator has a fantastic range of gifts for children. The brand new Zooniverse range is full of fun, bright animal characters that kids will love. The latest addition to this collection is the set of three handy snack boxes, designs include Roarsome Bites Tiger, Cheeky Treats Monkey and Snappy Snacks Crocodile. These are perfect for storing tasty treats for kids or keeping little toys organised. To see the full range of children’s giftware available visit our website.

Puckator Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C10-D11

Introducing Floss & Rock the exciting new children’s brand from the people that brought you Think Pink, a genderless brand offering exclusively designed gifts for boys and girls. In its first season, Floss & Rock will launch 52 brand new products, promoted alongside the existing Think Pink collections. Boasting its Blackpool roots, there will be a strong focus on packaging and the strap line “designed by the seaside”. We will officially launch at the following shows where we will exhibit under our new name Floss & Rock.

Think Pink Collections Tel: 01253 831512 Email: flossandrock.co.uk) www.flossandrock.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand G27 Nuremberg Toy Fair: Hall 1 Stand G-05

Floss & Rock Floss & Rock is the exciting new brand from the people who brought you Think Pink! It’s a genderless brand targeting young boys and girls with an exclusively designed collection of novelty gifts, bedroom accessories and dress up. Secret diaries with matching scented pens, dominoes, matching pairs, giant jigsaws, skipping ropes and height charts are all part of this exciting new brand’s launch offer.

Floss & Rock Tel: 01253 831512 Email: flossandrock.co.uk) www.flossandrock.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand G27 Nuremberg Toy Fair: Hall 1 Stand G-05 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Spotlight On... Beatrix Potter

Celebrating

15 Years This year marks 150 years since the birth of Beatrix Potter, whose tales of Peter Rabbit have captured the imaginations of children around the world for over 100 years. PG&H looks back on the early days of Peter Rabbit merchandise and also catches up with modern day licensees on how they’re celebrating this year.

Peter Rabbit came to life in 1893 when Beatrix Potter sent an illustrated letter about one of her pet rabbits, Peter, to a little boy called Noel Moore, the son of an exgoverness. She sent more letters, and encouraged by the children’s enthusiasm, eventually decided to try and get her Peter Rabbit story published. She sent the manuscript to six publishers who all turned it down. So, in 1901, she decided to have 250 copies privately published. The books sold so well that Frederick Warne & Co (one of the publishers who had initially turned

2016: A Year Of Celebration Penguin Ventures and Silvergate Media will be celebrating the legacy of Beatrix Potter in 2016 with some exciting partnerships and products, not just focusing on Peter Rabbit, but also Beatrix Potter's work as a conservationist, botanist, businesswoman and artist. Some of the highlights include new commemorative coins and stamps from the Royal Mint and Royal Mail, two new Peter Rabbit attractions opening in the UK and a high profile campaign from the National Trust to promote Beatrix’s conservation work at Hill Top, her property in the Lake District.

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down the book) offered her a publishing contract. In 1902, Warne published an initial print run of 8,000 which were all pre-sold prior to publication.

After the success of the books, Beatrix herself initiated the development of Peter Rabbit merchandise by registering a patent for a Peter Rabbit doll with the Patent Office in 1903. “This really was the start of the Peter Rabbit merchandise programme,” says Sara Glenn, curator of the Frederick Warne Archive. “Beatrix was ahead of her time when it came to merchandising, and we know from letters in our archives that she was very handson. In 1910, she designed a Jemima Puddle-Duck doll, which was made by J K Farnell. Not only did she negotiate the

Above: Beatrix Potter.

Inset: Wedgwood’s children’s tea set is a best seller.

agreement, she also visited the factory in Acton to collect royalties, most unusual for a woman in that time.

Beatrix’s goal was to create high-quality merchandise which was true to the original stories and she was fiercely protective of her characters. “Beatrix took a lot of care with her characters. The animals are all anatomically correct and true to form. She was not afraid to tell people what she thought of their designs,” says Sara.

In 1923, William O’Hanlon approached Warne with a design for cretonne fabric. In a letter to Warne, Beatrix describes the animals as ‘awful’.

Presumably some changes were made on the O’Hanlon side, and the fabric went into production with a licence issued for three years.

Wedgwood is one longstanding licensee who has been producing beautiful nurseryware Left: This Peter Rabbit doll from 1908 was based on a patent Beatrix filed in 1903.

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Spotlight On... Beatrix Potter and giftware since 1949. “Peter Rabbit remains one of our most iconic collections because the Peter Rabbit stories and illustrations have such universal appeal,” says Leigh Taylor, global vice president central marketing, branding and design at WWRD. “The British countryside setting and expressive story telling are what makes Beatrix Potter and the Peter Rabbit characters so endearing and the illustrations are instantly recognisable. One of our most popular products is the children’s tea set. It’s presented in delightful ‘minisuitcase’ packaging and allows children to emulate the very British ritual of taking afternoon tea, something that Wedgwood is so well known for.”

Wedgwood also recently introduced silver-plated giftware which is proving popular, particularly as christening and new baby gifts. In 2016, Wedgwood will release a collectors’ plate decorated in 22ct gold featuring Peter Rabbit in a limited edition of just 1000.

Border Fine Arts is another longstanding licensee, producing hand-painted figurines for nearly 30 years. Wendy Addison, creative and licensing manager at Enesco, explains the enduring popularity of Peter Rabbit: “Peter Rabbit is an iconic British character who is known by all age groups. Generations have grown up reading the books and buying merchandise. He is loved by grandparents, parents and children.”

The Border Fine Arts collection has expanded over the years to include Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny ceramic child gifts sets, money banks, musicals and picture frames, as well as alphabet letters, all inspired by Beatrix Potter’s artworks. “Our Friends of Peter Rabbit collectors’ club offers members the opportunity to add to

Left: An original Jemima PuddleDuck circa 1912 made by J K Farnell.

Below left: Gund is launching a limited edition Peter Rabbit to celebrate the 150th anniversary.

their collection with a members-only figurine," says Wendy. "In the 150th anniversary year, we have produced a hand-painted figurine depicting the iconic scene of Mrs Rabbit and Peter, and the Flopsy Bunnies from the Tale of Peter Rabbit.”

New style guides from Silvergate Media - the global licensing agent for Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit - offer licensees a contemporary interpretation of the brand, keeping it current and on trend for today’s customer.

“The challenge has been to create a set of creative assets that will appeal to new mums, but also grandparents,” says Thomas Merrington, vice president of brand and creative for Silvergate Media. “We want to stay true to Beatrix Potter’s original values, but also keep up with the 21st century. Our new adult and nursery style guides are contemporary and fresh, bringing the adventures of Peter Rabbit alive in a new way.”

One licensee embracing the new style guides is housewares and kitchenware distributor Stow Green. “Stow Green first became involved with the Peter Rabbit brand just over two years ago and last year we launched our classic range and contemporary range” says director, Adrian Bedford. “The contemporary range is an entirely new take on the theme using original artwork in a modern linear floral setting and the result is a collection of really attractive giftable products. Historically, Peter Rabbit products have been associated with children and nursery ranges but the excellent take-up Above right: Stow Green’s tableware brings Peter Rabbit to life in a fresh, contemporary way.

Above left: Silver-plated giftware from Wedgwood is popular as a christening or new baby gift.

Below: The 150th anniversary members-only piece from Border Fine Arts.

that we have experienced confirms that the appeal of the brand is alive and well with the older generation.”

Peter Rabbit plush toys have always been popular with children over the years. In fact, a Peter Rabbit doll from Steiff was the first commercially licensed product in 1905.

Rainbow Designs has been producing Peter Rabbit plush for well over two decades and in 2014 launched a new Peter Rabbit collection specifically for baby. “This collection was very well received and has performed exceptionally well since its arrival in the marketplace,” says Rainbow's md Anthony Temple. “As the 150th anniversary of Beatrix Potter approaches it's clear to see that the brand has stood the test of time. Early last year we introduced a range of Flopsy Bunny nursery products to the collection which have proven to be very popular. We also have some fantastic new additions to the collection planned for the 150th anniversary year including an activity spiral, cot mobile and a developmental playmat.”

Meanwhile, Gund has been creating soft toys for over a century and, in January 2014, launched the Peter Rabbit plush collection.

The plush captures popular characters such as Peter Rabbit, Flopsy Bunny, Mrs TiggyWinkle, Jemima Puddle-Duck and many more. To celebrate the 150th anniversary in 2016, Gund is launching a limited edition Peter Rabbit, displayed in a gift box with gold embossing, complete with a hand numbered certificate. With only 500 pieces available worldwide, this is guaranteed to be much sought after piece.

The World of Beatrix Potter is one of the world’s longest running and largest international literature-based licensing programmes. Beatrix Potter was a pioneer and a very astute businesswoman and thanks to her early efforts, Peter Rabbit has appeared in books and on licensed product in more than 110 countries throughout the world so she deserves her 150th milestone to be celebrated.

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Come & see us...

01242 244500 sales@orangetreetoys.com www.orangetreetoys.com

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MICHAEL WEEDON

SOUNDING OFF

Not Very

Appealing A new year is an opportunity to blow away the cobwebs with a good rant, says Michael Weedon, deputy ceo and communications director for the British Independent Retailers Association (bira).

With confusion reining over the appeals system for rates valuations, with less rather than more information on hand for retailers, it' s becoming something of a dark art and one that gift retailers need to be aware of.

"Way back in October, before almost every retailer in the country panicked at the prospect of Black Friday and just went on sale right through to Christmas - and then went on sale again immediately afterwards - the government asked everybody not desperately putting up sale signs what they thought about changes it was considering making to the appeals system for business rates valuations. This should be of interest to any business with a property and a rates bill.

There has been much hand-wringing about appeals, because out of 1.8 million rated properties, 280,000 still have queries on them arising from the last revaluation carried out in 2008 and implemented in 2010. The next revaluation is already well underway, and will be based on rental values in April last year, with new valuations becoming operative next year.

So, the bits of government that have to deal with this are keen to make sure that it doesn’t happen again.

The idea was that a new three stage process called Check, Challenge, Appeal

Top: Mick Weedon.

Above: Gift retailer Retro36 recently made an appeal against the business rates for its Scarborough store and managed to secure a 12.5% reduction.

would make sure that all the details of the property would be verified, and all relevant facts considered before an actual appeal could be made. All of which sounds reasonable until you take into account that the consultation is looking at bringing in upfront fees just for starting cases, and adding penalties for 'carelessly' providing information that turns out to be wrong.

For the ratepayer, a gift retailer for example, valuation can look like a dark art.

"There has been much hand-wringing about appeals, because out of 1.8 million rated properties, 280,000 still have queries on them arising from the last revaluation carried out in 2008 and implemented in 2010."

It's supposed to be based on what rent a premises would have earned if let at the beginning of April last year. Most shops weren’t in the process of being let at that point, and the valuer often has to construct a value based on information for perhaps just one in 10 shops in a street. Many retailers own their own premises outright, so this supposed rental value comes as news to them and this is a prime reason why they appeal.

A past President of the Valuation Tribunal for England commented: “I don’t know any other tax that can be levied where the taxpayer doesn’t understand in full, down to the last detail, the basis on which the taxman has calculated the tax due.”

It’s likely, looking at the consultation document, that less, rather than more, information will be made available to the ratepayer, so they’ll be even deeper in the dark, having to decide if the upfront fees are worthwhile and running the risk of penalties if they make a mistake.

So when we put in our reply, bira said that they should reduce the number of appeals by simply excluding small premises from the tax, taking out 80% of the potential disagreements and that there should be more transparency in the system, not less.

It’s possible that our submission and others will affect the outcome. It’s equally possible that the new regime will come clanking in exactly as outlined in the proposals. We should know fairly soon. In the meantime, with the new year rant over, we can get on with 2016."

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Spring Fair: Exhibitors

It’s Showtime!

Thousands of gift and home suppliers are gearing up for the biggest gift event on the industry's calendar - Spring Fair - which will be taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from February 7-11.

All will be proudly showing their new collections for Spring/Summer 2016, with some companies moving hall, many to concentrate more on the gifting side of their business. Others meanwhile, have linked in with greeting card companies to give their gift ranges a point of difference.

PG&H talked to a selection of exhibitors about some of the show stoppers retailers can expect to find.

It's A Gift

For the first time, Really Good will be exhibiting in the gift sector, instead of the greeting card sector, at Spring Fair in Hall 6 (stand J22-K23). "As the company is now approximately 70% gifts we feel this is the right place to be exhibiting and we are very excited," enthuses sales manager Lisa Marcuccio.

Among the gift collections being unveiled is a new range, Happy Housewives, from the artist Dupenny, with a kitsch take on 1950’s style.

"Inspired by the days of seamed stockings and suspenders, we’ve used the iconic illustrations from the monochrome housewives series to create a retro collection of giftware," comments Lisa. "Each housewife exudes character and allure, and we’ve combined some retro pattern and bold colour in the presentation boxes creating a quirky and unique collection which ranges from mugs and shot glasses to tea towels and cake tins."

The company has also been working with wordsmith Rachel Bright to revamp The Bright Side, which will feature a new palette of colours as well as new products.

"We’ve used bright and bold repeating patterns to add sparkle and spirit to the old block printing synonymous with The Bright Side," explains Lisa. Using the same printing processes, the shapes and forms created tie-in with the individual products, such as a retro flower used within the new garden range.

"One thing that hasn't changed though is the quirky quotes and sentiments expressed in each piece," Lisa continues. "We've taken some of our best-selling lines and updated them to reflect current fashions, such as the selfie, along with seasonal trends, and gifts for treasured family members to include wrinklies."

However, not forgetting its roots, the company has also been working on a new concept of light-up greeting cards. Called Showtime, they follow the light-up trend. "The cards feature a colourful retro design overlaid with a collection of LEDs for illumination to light up, for example, ages or initials," highlights Lisa.

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Above: The NEC, Birmingham, has been playing host to Spring Fair for 40 years this year.

Below left and bottom left: Really Good will be unveiling a host of new products to include Happy Housewives and a re-vamped Bright Side collection.

Card Sharp

As well as looking forward to being in a new location with a larger overall stand near the entrance to Hall 4 (stand DO1) Gaeltag Keltika will be marking the New Year with a raft of brand new launches. These include Royal Furmily, humorous cat-themed merchandise, to diversifying into impulse gifts with the introduction of Little box of... concept, merchandised in individual mini gift boxes.

However, something that the company has been keeping under its hat is a new project linking up with some of the most innovative and successful card publishers in the UK and further afield. "Building on our expertise in glassware, we’re really pleased to be working with award-winning designers Paper Salad, Berni Parker Designs, Kali Stileman of The Square Card Co., plus Australian Emma Kate Co., in developing 24 new gift wine glasses," explains md Frank Emmel. "The range will go under the overall branding of Here’s to You and will initially focus on six designs from each of the collaborating companies. We’re excited about this and feel it will give us the chance to offer something genuinely fresh and new to consumers in this sector of the gift market with Spring Fair the perfect springboard for us."

Below: An image from Berni Parker Designs that will feature on a new gift wine glass, part of a brand new Galetag Keltika glassware range, Here's to You.

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Spring Fair: Exhibitors

Mugging Up

Kick-starting Cherry Orchard's 21st anniversary celebrations, the company will be launching a brand new nostalgic line of Down Memory Lane gift mugs for the coming year in Hall 3 (stand Q31), with the mugs shortlisted in the Commemorative and Collectable Gifts category of the 2016 Gift of the Year Awards.

"Building on our best-selling card range, the Above: Cherry Orchard's new launch of the mugs marks a diversification into the giftware Down Memory Lane gift mugs. market for us, with branded display stands, free PoS material for stockists and other promotions both at the show and online," explains md Jackie Collins.

Promotions will play a big part for Cherry Orchard at this year's Spring Fair, with a programme of events that includes the announcement of the winner of the company's Shop of the Month Grand Prize Draw, where one lucky retailer (from the 2015 monthly finalists) will receive a prize of greeting card stock worth £1,000 (at RRP). Other competitions taking place on the stand include the opportunity to win a bumper selection of Christmas cards designs.

New, New, New

Xystos will be among the home fragrancing companies moving into Hall 4 (stand H50/J51), positioned just off the super highway that leads into Halls 6, 7 and 8.

"Our stand will be 20% larger because we need the extra space to merchandise all of our new products to include our new American brand Candle-Lite which offers affordable luxury and value," explains director Tom Sykes.

"In fact, it will be the size of most people's stores! We are also launching a tremendous amount of Autumn/Winter ranges at Spring Fair - 14 new Autumn collections - in addition to our new Spring fragrances. Plus, our electric melt burners have grown by a third," continues Tom, “which have been repackaged and re-branded with new patterns."

In The Bag

"Our shopper 'bag in a bag' range seems to be the new success story for us," says Annie Paddison, director of Black Ginger.

"Fun designs include flowers, fishes, cows, dogs and cats and we’ve worked hard to make it a big collection with a shop display box," she explains. "Our ranges will also include a big selection of gifts for Mother's Day and Father's Day. For example, our female gifts include a new scarf and jewellery collection, while our scarf hanger range is continuing to expand. New designs include a horse, flowers and trees. For men, we have ventured into leather wallets and key holders, with new gifts for boys too."

This year, the company will be moving to a new stand in Hall 7 (E31). "It's a more open stand at the end of an aisle," confirms Annie.

Below: Black Ginger's shopper 'bag in a bag' range.

Above: Xystos' wax melt burners have been re-packaged and re-branded.

Bigger And Better

"Spring Fair is always a special show for the company but never more so than in 2016," says Widdop and Co.'s marketing manager Sue Grant. "Not only do we have a new stand location - Hall 4 stand G10-J11 - we also will be revealing a new look stand, new product categories and new licenses as well as other changes. To make room, the size of our stand has increased by 20%," she confirms.

Among the products making their debut at Spring Fair will be By Appointment, a distinctive collection of high quality, themed, ladies giftware licensed from Pigment Design Studio. In addition, Colonial Candles will feature new product categories to include reed diffusers and Mother’s Day gift sets. "A new Christmas collection, incorporating nine contemporary themes, will also take pride of place," adds Sue. Below: Widdop and Co.'s new By Appointment collection.

New Look Stand Wax Lyrical has gone for a very different look for its stand at Spring Fair this year, with the company exhibiting in Hall 4 (stand E41) in the super highway section that leads into Halls 6, 7, 8.

"Instead of our stand being long and thin, it will have more of a square shape, and will be the first time that we are open on all sides," explains Nikki Garnett, head of marketing and creative."It will also reference the Lake District and will feel very contemporary to complement our re-branding.

It's very innovative, reflecting a fresh new look for the company. The stand will be displaying our new collections as well as new additions to our best selling ranges."

Continues Nikki: "After this year’s sell out success, we have also developed a new collection of Christmas gift packs, as well as some innovative Christmas gift and home décor ideas. To celebrate our Best of British success, we will have a number of offers available on the stand that will be exclusive to show visitors."

Above: Wax Lyrical's Fired Earth candle tin in Assam and White Cedar, a finalist in this year's Gift of the Year Home Fragrance category.

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Spring Fair: Retailers

Spring Fair Strategy From the newest independent gift retailers - both bricks and mortar and online - to department stores, multiples and garden centres, Spring Fair is the show that few good retailers can afford to miss, with the exhibition the biggest gift trade show in the UK. As Spring Fair celebrates its 40th year at the NEC, PG&H asked a cross section of retailers about their approach to show in February.

Whitehall Garden Centre "We will be going to Spring Fair for four days, one of which will be dedicated to visiting the Christmas section, which is a huge part of our offer as we have two massive, dedicated Christmas rooms to buy stock for," says Clare Self, director of Whitehall Garden Centre, Lacock, Chippenham, and Whitchurch, Bristol. "Together with Ali Harding, head of merchandising, we take a list and try and stick to it. We also look at where we might have a 'gap' product-wise in the gift department. We do some research beforehand and highlight the suppliers that we want to visit. These include existing suppliers, where we look at what's new. The only areas we don't go into are fine jewellery and kitchenware, otherwise we walk every hall, going up and down the aisles, with one of us looking to the left and the other one to the right. If we spot something exciting, then we phone or text. When we get back to the hotel we're always shattered, but nevertheless discuss the day and our plans for the following day."

To a certain extent, Claire says they have an open budget. "For example, if we do see something that's above our budget we might still give it a go as you have to keep making your offer interesting for customers," she comments. "We need to use the days we have at the show as best we can, so unfortunately, we don't go to any of the seminars." l Claire's Tip: "Plan your day so that you don't miss things. We have a map of the show with us at all times, and highlight the halls we want to visit Above right: Spring Fair will shortly and then tick them off when we've done them. We also be welcoming thousands of visitors.

Above left: Whitehall Garden Centre, make a point of finding the shortest routes to take to take Lacock and Bristol. us from hall to hall."

Below right: Gifts From Handpicked

Gifts From Handpicked "We will be spending three days at Spring Fair," confirms Natalie Yates, founder of online store Gifts From Handpicked. "We take it in turns so that every staff member gets to influence our choices. We have learned along the way that it is not everything that I necessarily like. We have taken family members too, who work in the fashion industry, so it's a team effort."

Explains Natalie: "Every year we go with a plan of who we want to see, but we become easily distracted and go off track.

This year we will be walking the halls of every aisle in two teams. We wouldn’t normally do every hall but there may be a hidden opportunity! We place orders at the

A New Visitor Experience

l Resorts World Birmingham, a new ÂŁ150 million leisure and entertainment destination on site at the NEC, will be enhancing the visitor/exhibitor experience at Spring Fair this February. l The first of its kind in Europe, the complex features a host of major retailers - to include JOY and the Gift Company - 18 bars and restaurants, plus an 11-screen Cineworld. l Visitors can also stay at the four star Genting Hotel, the first to open in Europe, which includes the Genting International Casino.

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DISCOVER A BRITISH TREASURE Gluggle Jugs by Wade Ceramics A market leader in the design and production of high-quality ceramic products, for you.

T: +44 (0)845 481 0206

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www.wade.co.uk

E: enquiries@wade.co.uk

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Spring Fair: Retailers show and also gather information to place orders later in the year so that all our new stock doesn’t arrive at the same time."

She says that she and the team will be on the look-out for two new product sectors - jewellery and accessories. "We also love going into the greeting cards hall as you can find lovely gift ideas too. Currently we don’t have a card range but we might consider this as an add-on opportunity."

The team tend to be very spontaneous in their buying. "We have a rough idea, but if we like it we tend to buy it. Eight years ago we would have been nervous and budgeting, but now we are in a very fortunate place that we can shop away!" l Natalie's Top Tip: "Try and make time to plan attending the live debates and seminars.

They are inspiring as people within the gift industry have a wealth of knowledge. Also, call by the GA stand to take a look at the finalists for Gift of the Year. Wear light clothing as it is very warm and take your time."

Aspire Style

Sugar Loaf

Chris Bulligham, owner of Sugar Loaf and Time Watch in Cheltenham's Regent Shopping Arcade, spends two to three days at Spring Fair, and will be going to the show with his parents who have a watch shop in Gloucestershire.

"Once we're there we go our independent ways, but it's great to have them there in an advisory role too," Chris comments. "I go into all the halls, and although I pre-plan meetings with some companies, I'm spontaneous with others," he explains. "During January, I spend a lot of time thinking about what I want to look-out for as we are always looking for different things." l Chris' Top Tip: "Try not to get carried away. Visiting Spring Fair should stimulate ideas, but once the buzz of the show has disappeared, don't think afterwards, 'why did I order that?'. Additionally, we have learned not to waste time with companies who won't supply us because they are already supplying someone else in our area."

Rhubarb

Above: Sugar Loaf, Cheltenham.

Below left: Aspire Style, which has "We're planning to do two days at Spring Fair this year," five stores. confirms Emma Woodward, co-owner of Aspire Style, Right: Rhubarb, Malvern. which has five shops in Earlsdon, Warwick, Solihull, Stratford and Oxford. "We spend one day visiting our current suppliers and, on the second day, we'll walk most halls with a view to looking for new and exciting suppliers and products.

We place most of our orders at the show, but sometimes we'll take information away to digest and check where the products will fit with the rest of our ranges. Currently, we are increasingly looking at homewares, as there seems to be a real trend, with people spending money on accessorising their homes. Greeting cards have always done very well as an add on purchase for us, as so many people come to buy gifts from us, so it's becoming increasingly important for us to find new ranges and keep the collection constantly evolving.

We will therefore be spending time looking for new suppliers as well and checking out what our current suppliers have brought out for the new year."

Emma says that she prefers to have a budget in mind when she visits the show, but it can be flexible if she and the team see something they really like. "As we stock a lot of jewellery and clothing, as well as gifts, we can move our budget between categories if we feel one season is stronger in one category than another," she explains.

Adds Emma: "We always take a couple of members of staff with us to each show we visit. Our team are talking to customers every day so they get a real feel for what customers are looking for. All the shop teams love a visit to a trade show and are a great support with the buying. Also we find they get really excited when the products they've helped choose arrive in store and are very enthusiastic about them which is always a big boost to selling!" l Emma's Top Tip: "Tea and cake! Don't rush a decision if you're not sure. Take time to contemplate whether it's on brand for the business and if it will sit well with existing ranges.

Sometimes we'll ask suppliers to put down a long list of selected products for us and we take it away and choose the products that will work best for us once we sit down calmly in the office a couple of days later."

"For us, Spring Fair is the biggest and most important show, so we will be flying up and down the aisles for the entirety!" concur Sara and Nigel Morris, owners of Rhubarb in Malvern. "We do tend to follow the same route each year when we navigate the halls, more out of habit than organisation.”

The couple always place orders with new companies at the show, to include seasonal gifts, that they say they can only see in 'real life' at Spring Fair. "We don't worry too much about ordering there and then with existing accounts, but it's good to see any new products," comments Sara.

This year, Sara and Nigel will be on the look-out for larger gift items, and some smaller furniture items in particular, as they are finding that bigger statement pieces are selling very well.

"We don't really have a fixed budget," says Sara. "If we love it, we buy it! This year we won't be bringing any staff along with us. It will be just the two of us." l Sara and Nigel's Top Tip: "Try going right the way through a hall you possibly normally wouldn't go into, as we have found a few really good accounts doing this. It may be that a company has booked late, or isn't familiar with the show, and would be more suited to be in, say, contemporary gifts."

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The Milford Collection New for 2016 Benaya at Milford ‘Light Glass’

The Milford Collection

Telephone: 01686 629919 Email: david@milfordcollection.com Website: www.milfordcollection.com

We look forward to introducing you to this exciting new range of ‘Light Glass’ nightlights at Spring Fair 2016.

HALL 4 STAND B32

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Rural Retreat

Country Retreat This year we are launching a number of new ranges at Spring Fair.

Whether you have a country kitchen or contemporary kitchen, Country retreat will sit comfortably in both. The exquisitely hand drawn animals are placed on a range of contemporary white ceramic kitchen products giving a clean but slightly quirky and fun appearance. Products include a large butter dish, storage jars, utensils jug, cute salt & pepper shakers and egg cups, teapot, creamer and sugar bowl, along with new contemporary shape mugs.

DMD David Mason Design Tel: 01246 260500 Email: sales@davidmasondesign.co.uk www.davidmasondesign.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 9 Stand J24 K11 Ambiente: Hall 1.2 Stand C70

Following on from Dunoon's popular Highland Retreat is Rural Retreat, a set of three designs on the large size mug shape called Cairngorm. The artwork is by the very popular artist Ron Lawson and in his inimitable style. The mugs are very stylish and feature a sheep with post box, a fishing boat and a tractor in a simple landscape. The limited colour palette makes for a sophisticated range, and the splash of red on the subject gives them the 'wow' factor.

Dunoon Tel: 01785 817414 Email: sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk www.dunoonmugs.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 9 Stand H01 Ambiente: Hall 4.2 Stand E22

Commemorative Royal Mugs

Personalised Adult Colouring Books The Personalised Memento Company is the UK’s largest drop shipper of personalised gifts. New to their range for Spring 2016 are their collection of personalised colouring books for adults. Perfect for grown-ups of all ages, these personalised colouring books combine mesmerising patterns and stunning detail with a personal touch.

Personalised Memento Company (PMC) Tel: 01782 744900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand E-90-F91

To commemorate HM The Queen's 90th birthday on April 21, Dunoon has produced two fine bone china mugs. On Wessex shape, there is a very traditional and classic design in a rich royal blue, embellished with real metallic 22 carat gold. It is by designer David Broadhurst and is sure to be a collector's item. On Cairngorm shape, there is a more fun design featuring iconic images relating to Her Majesty, portrayed in a quirky and colourful style by designer Kate Mawdsley.

Both are fine bone china, Made in England in the heart of Staffordshire.

Dunoon Tel: 01785 817414 Email: sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk www.dunoonmugs.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 9 Stand H01 Ambiente: Hall 4.2 Stand E22

Purrfectly Appealing In The Frame Kenro will be unveiling a number of new designs at Spring Fair, including new wood frames, plastic frames and designer photo albums featuring baby and travel themes. Expected to steal the show is the popular new Bergamo wooden frame series.

Available in black, white and vintage grey finishes, these come in single and multi-aperture formats. Visit our stand and pick up the new brochure.

Kenro Tel: 01793 615836 Email: sales@kenro.co.uk www.kenro.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4C45

Gaeltag is delighted to present a new licensing link-up with UK artist Emily Stracey. Emily specialises in characterful animal imagery, producing original one-off pieces. The initial range, The Royal Furmily Pawtraits, is based around four ceramic cat figurines, with the cat imagery also featuring on mugs, a tea-for-one teapot, tea towels, aprons and fridge magnets. Product will be available to order for the first time at Spring Fair. Gaeltag Keltika will be in their new location at the NEC. Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com www.gaeltagkeltika.com/www.cowparade.eu Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4D01

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Solar Pal Characters Puckator’s ever-popular selection of Solar Pal characters is expanding. Among other designs is the best-selling Dancing Queen which now has a London guardsman and waving policeman to sit alongside her. These are soon to be followed by a British Bulldog and exciting officially licensed characters. There is a new collaboration with Aardman Animations to announce. Later this year there will be brand new Solar Pal characters of Shaun the Sheep and Wallace & Gromit! Sign up to the newsletter on our website.

Puckator Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand C10-D11

Ceramic Tableware Introducing a new range of ceramic tableware.

Quail's Egg combines sophisticated shapes with high gloss finish to produce modern, stylish and desirable gifts. The freshness of 5 Colours, and the subtle glazing of Dapple make these jugs, dipping bowls and serving platters an exquisite addition to any table.

Quail Tel: 01304 379 901 Email: info@quailsegg.co.uk www.quailsegg.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 6 Stand T21

That Festive Feeling SIL Christmas 2016 is a going to be a colourful occasion.

Highlights include Vintage Script, a vintage styled range, bursting with a vibrant Christmas red. The Berry Wreath range is pretty and traditional, the main motif being a seasonal wreath containing all the classic Christmas elements. The Festive Floral range brings us bang up to date. The deep reds and plums make this range a must for a glamorous Christmas.

SIL Tel: 01992 718033 Email: sales@silplc.com www.silplc.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 stand E10-G11

Garden Retreat Bring the outdoors in with SIL’s wonderful Rustic Retreat collection. Decorate your home with an array of planters from whimsical wheelbarrow shapes to 70’s revival hanging macramé pots. For a ready-made option try their ceramic pots planted with faux Lavender and Sweet Peas. For that final touch, light up your garden with their selection of hurricane lamps, lanterns and strings of lights.

SIL Tel: 01992 718033 Email: sales@silplc.com www.silplc.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 stand E10-G11

Up In LIghts New from the British-designed, fast-selling Up In Lights range from Smiling Faces are Giant Letters. Standing 32 cm high, they are perfect for home décor and events. Also available will be new Standard and Giant Numbers from 0-9, plus 18 and 21 birthday combinations along with hearts and stars. The contemporary, high quality, LED-lit letters can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Call for more details or a trade login.

Smiling Faces Tel: 01444 882323 Email: sales@smilingfaces.co.uk www.smilingfaces.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand B41

Tinplate Giftware We are delighted with our new keepsake tin range! Great pick-up lines for our retailers and at a wonderful price point. Official VW, Ford, Route 66, Lambretta, MG, Shell, Eddie Stobart and Will Patrons license holders showcasing exclusive designs 2016.

Eye-catching and captivating exclusive giftware make us one not to miss!

Innovative and bold, our approach is different and our products…well, they do the talking for us! For wall signs and tins, join the RHL experience!

Red Hot Lemon Tel: +44 (0)121 552 5338 Email: jo@redhotlemon.co.uk www.redhotlemon.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 6 Stand Q32

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SIGNATURE GIFTS PREMIER supplier of

Personalised

GIFTS

ANY NAME

Convenience of a one-stop shop with skills from specialist businesses Tel: 01582 464809 www.signature-gifts.co.uk Twitter: @signaturegifts

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Come and see us at Spring Fair

Hall 4 – Stand D60-E61

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Feminine And Floral Our collection of Spring /Summer 2016 is soft, feminine and floral, characterised by soft pastel shades of pink, green and grey, and pretty, delicate patterns adorning bowls and tea-lights, various shapes and sizes of vases spilling with relaxed, country meadow flowers, and plenty of garland light strings, including our mini cork bottles, which make the perfect decoration for parties and weddings.

Parlane International Tel: 01451 812700 Email: sales@parlaneinternational.co.uk www.parlaneinternational.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 8, Stand C10 - D09

Arabian Nights Arabian Night lanterns from Joe Davies fit the current Moroccan trend perfectly. There are standing and hanging lanterns of various sizes in the range, all with exotic, patterned, coloured glass which glows beautifully when illuminated. The lanterns join over 2500 brand new gifts on Joe Davies' spacious stand which is in its same great location in Hall 5 (C30/D31) The lanterns and all Joe Davies' gifts are easy to buy in modest quantities with free delivery nationwide.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand C30/31

Christmas Collection Royal Worcester, one of Britain’s most recognised brands of ceramics, is expanding its best-selling Wrendale Designs giftware collection. Joining the family in 2016 is a fabulous Christmas collection including new festive mug designs, mug and coaster sets and Christmas decorations. Four new creature illustrations will also be launched. Capturing the captivating personalities of irresistible animals in effervescent style, this collection of gifts has something for everyone at every gifting occasion.

Portmeirion Group Tel: +44 (0)1782 744721 Email: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com www.portmeiriongroup.com Spring Fair: Hall 9, Stand E30-F31 Ambiente: Hall 4.1, Stand B16

Milestone Celebrations 2016 is an exciting year for Portmeirion Group with two of its best-selling collections marking impressive milestones. Spode’s Blue Italian celebrates its 200th anniversary with a stunning anniversary collection and new design, Giallo. The Sophie Conran for Portmeirion range also celebrates its 10th anniversary with an inspired and varied collection of mugs. A variety of new introductions will also join the portfolio alongside three new designs - Dandelion Clocks by Sanderson for Portmeirion, Vintage Kellogg’s Sunrise and Enchanted Tree.

Portmeirion Group Tel: +44 (0)1782 744721 Email: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com www.portmeiriongroup.com Spring Fair: Hall 9, Stand E30-F31 Ambiente: Hall 4.1, Stand B16

New From Edge Edge Sculpture is a striking collection of contemporary statement pieces. The infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex, although initially showcased at Autumn Fair in a prototype bust form, will have its launch at Spring Fair. The new Green Man bust, Pug bust and Duck figure will also be present.

Those coming to see what we will be showing for the first time for 2016 will be able to view our new Edge Sculpture Horse bust, a bold, exciting Owl piece and a Moon Gazing Hare.

Edge Sculpture Tel: 01952 884804 Email: sales@edgesculpture.com www.edgesculpture.com Spring Fair: Hall 1, Stand H20

Holiday Party Celebrate winter 2016 in style with Yankee Candle's glittering new festive range. This season’s on-trend Holiday Party collection brings shimmer and sparkle to enhance the festive mood. All is Bright, Festive Cocktail, Macaron Treats and Star Anise & Orange.

Expertly blended, they range from classic Christmas red tones to a luxurious touch of gold. The new fragrances will be available as gift sets and will also feature in a new advent calendar design. Party inspired accessories will accompany the range.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4D30-E31

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Same great location!

Hall 5, Stand C30/D31 Jewellery ranges are complimented by high quality accessories including scarves, men’s ranges and handbags.

Only £100 minimum order ‘Little & Often’ ordering system FREE next day delivery Award winning customer service

Equilibrium Vintage Birthstone

Equilibrium Bracelets

Equilibrium Owl Tapestry

Equilibrium Sentiment Earrings

Equilibrium Vintage Collection

Equilibrium Bead Message Bracelets

Equilibrium Scarf Rings

Progressive Gifts Greats Awards 2015

13 times winners

Best Service to the Independent Retailer

Equilibrium Warm Tones

Equilibrium Folding Handbags

Joe Davies (Manchester) Limited 149 Broadstone Road, Reddish Stockport SK5 7GA Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Neon Chess Loncraine Broxton is launching this bold and bright laser-cut chess set, that’s made of fluorescent acrylic, at Spring Fair 2016. A contemporary take on a classic game, the neon chess set has been shortlisted in the Men’s category of Gift of the Year.

Loncraine Broxton, part of The Lagoon Group Tel: 020 8 563 6520 Email: sales@thelagoongroup.com www.thelagoongroup.com Spring Fair Hall 6, Stand L44-M45

In Bad Taste

Pixies and Fairy Doors

At Nemesis Now we believe that collectables are going to be popular than ever before in 2016... That’s why we are adding new lines.

The Bears are back with purpose, launching at Spring Fair. Working in collaboration with renowned artist Pete Underhill, Nemesis Now are presenting an all new collection of Bad Taste Bears. The new range features new designs and each product in the range has a functional purpose around the home, including wine bottle holders, tankards, toilet roll holders and more.

Nemesis Now Tel: 01782 596660 Email: sales@nemesisnow.com www.nemesisnow.com Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C30-D31

One of the latest additions to Fiesta Studios’ catalogue is the fantastic selection of Pixies and Fairy Doors. The resin sculptures feature the mystical creatures in a variety of poses making an excellent range of quirky gifts. See the entire collection on fiestastudios.com or at Spring Fair.

Fiesta Studios Tel: 01460 242464 Email: info@fiestastudios.com www.fiestastudios.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4H70-J71

Bi-Plane Kit

Men’s Gifts A new collection of men’s gifts is making its Spring Fair debut. Element has been created to capture men’s love of sports and interests. A range of 10 mugs and matching coasters has been designed by an awardwinning illustrator. Other gifts include English pewter keyrings and pins, cufflinks, socks, hankies and birthday cards. The collection is the new brand from The Music Gifts Company which has more than 20 years experience in designing gifts.

Element Tel: 01202 57 00 57 Email: info@elementgifts.com www.elementgifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand A53

Recreate the Wright Brothers famous Kitty Hawk with this great 41-piece kit that has been shortlisted in the Men’s category of Gift of the Year. See if you can fly the rubber band-powered model further than the pioneering brothers whose plane flew a record-breaking 120 feet in their first flight on 17th December 1903. The kit is part of Lagoon’s best-selling Vintage Planet range of old fashioned toys, kites and kits. Model length is 500mm and the wing span is 490mm.

The Lagoon Group Tel: 020 8 563 6520 Email: sales@thelagoongroup.com www.thelagoongroup.com Spring Fair Hall 6, Stand L44-M45

Harriet Glen Hares The world-renowned sculptor and Fiesta Studios stalwart, Harriet Glen, has sculpted some brand new hares. Following the massive success of her initial designs she has worked with Fiesta to add the characterful Heather and Hazel to Fiesta’s extensive collection of cold cast bronze. See them at Spring Fair.

Fiesta Studios Tel: 01460 242464 Email: info@fiestastudios.com www.fiestastudios.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4H70-J71

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Spring Fair 2016 Hall 6 Stand T21

Top Drawer N39/41 Telephone: 01304 379901 info@quailceramics.co.uk www.quailceramics.co.uk

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www.quailsegg.co.uk Email: info@quailsegg.co.uk Tel: 01304 379 901

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Rowing 8 Sculpture Designed exclusively for Libra an aluminium hand finished rowing sculpture in antique silver. Trade price £34.

The Libra Company Tel: 01223 895800 Email: sales@thelibracompany.co.uk www.thelibracompany.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 8, Stand 8C03

Handcrafted Glassware D & J Glassware’s fabulous fused glass designs are a celebration of quality handcrafted glassware. The collections include a wide selection of mirrors, pictures and coasters, as well as extremely popular animals, trees and angels. Visit the company’s stand to see the new additions and be amazed at the eye-catching designs.

D & J Glassware Tel: +44 (0)1953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com www.dandjglassware.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand A58

Lily Sitting Whippet Designed exclusively for Libra by British designer John Piper, this sculpture Is beautifully detailed and finished In antique bronze. Trade price £49.95.

The Libra Company Tel: 01223 895800 Email: sales@thelibracompany.co.uk www.thelibracompany.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 8, Stand 8C03

Up, Up And Away Joe Davies customers looking for something different will find plenty to whet their whistle, among them these gorgeous metallic mercury LED balloons, brand new to the UK market. They look fantastic during the day, but when lit up by their internal 'firefly' LED lights they look truly spectacular. There are three sizes and a plethora of colours. A collection is easy to put together with minimum outlay as Joe Davies specialise in selling in 'Little & Often' quantities.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand C30/31

Wind Spinners Whirl These new wind spinners from Joe Davies make an eye-catching display for Spring/Summer and look set to repeat their recent success in the States and Australia.

For retail display, Joe Davies offer a practical stand and battery operated revolving motors. Lovely, 'levitating ball' spirals can also be added to the spinners to enhance the effect. Wind spinners can be ordered individually or as a starter pack complete with accessories.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand C30/31

Sporty Socks Witness the dawn in a new era of men’s gifts. Element is making its Spring Fair debut. It is a unique collection of gifts based around a variety of men’s sports such as cycling, football, rugby, golf, cricket, tennis and running as well as hobbies like sailing, motor-racing, fishing, motorbikes, photography, trains, darts and beer ! The range has been created by The Music Gifts Company which is exhibiting at its 20th Spring Fair.

Element Tel: 01202 57 00 57 Email: info@elementgifts.com www.elementgifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand A53

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morplan.com

Call

0330 44 55 666

Call & Collect from one of our three stores - full details online London 020 7636 1887

Bristol 0117 964 3883

Glasgow 0141 429 0537

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Tree Of Life D & J Glassware was the first UK supplier to introduce the marvellous Tree Of Life globes to the British market and continues to add beautiful designs to the collection. Using recycled glass, the anniversary Tree of Life exudes the high quality for which the company is renowned.

D & J Glassware Tel: +44 (0)1953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com www.dandjglassware.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand A58

Contemporary Lifestyle Collection Wild & Wolf is excited to announce its new, original lifestyle design range Wild Wood. The stunning contemporary collection showcases stylish household accessories, from desk lamps, lamp shades, wall clocks and globe lights. All Wild Wood products follow a bold, yet elegant, colour palette, ideal for brightening up any room. Add a retro feel with the solid colour wall clocks or a contemporary boost with beautifully folded paper design lamp shades. See the new range at Spring Fair.

Wild & Wolf Tel: 01225 789909 Email: sales@wildandwolf.com www.wildandwolf.com Spring Fair: Hall 6 Stand H42-J43

Farmers’ Market The Farmers' Market collection was born out of the recent popularity for locally sourced ingredients and artisan, handmade, home-cooked food – championing all that is local and fresh, and is perfect for farm shops and delis. We commissioned the ‘I Rule The Roost’ chicken illustrations to feature on a range of kitchen textiles to co-ordinate with the rest of the collection and to be humorous as well as practical.

Parlane International Tel: 01451 812700 Email: sales@parlaneinternational.co.uk www.parlaneinternational.co.uk Hall 8 - Stand C10 - D09

Spring In Bloom Following SIL’s success with their top selling Bloom Collection they have launched a new floral range to brighten our lives! This collection moves on from the soft watercolour print of the first collection to the vibrancy of photography.

The flowers are bursting with freshness and vivid colour and look particularly effective on their glass jewellery boxes and photo frames. SIL have also created a matching signature home fragrance range that will fill your homes with the delicate aroma of jasmines and peonies.

SIL Tel: 01992 718033 Email: sales@silplc.com www.silplc.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 stand E10-G11

Chocolate In Store At Thorntons we know that chocolate is the perfect gift for any occasion! If you run a card and gift shop, our delicious chocolate adds an extra special touch to all your gifts, at every season. We want to make sure we give you the best possible options to enhance your in-store gifting opportunities - which is where “Thorntons... in your store” comes in! “Thorntons... in your store” gives you and your shoppers the full range of passionately crafted Thorntons chocolates in beautiful packaging, that will complement all your other product ranges in store. For three years we’ve been proud to roll out our successful ‘new concept store’-format that features new furnishings and elaborate finishes, all lit up with state-of-the-art lighting that truly showcases the fantastic range we offer. We know these finishing touches will make all the difference in your store(s)! Come and see us for a chat and a chocolate (or two)! Next to the entrance of Hall 3 Stand M01.

Thorntons Tel: 0845 075 0056 Email: thorntonsinyourstore@thorntons.co.uk www.thorntons.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 3 Stand M01 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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www.winterinvenice.co.uk SPRING FAIR 2016 HALL 20 STAND E09 We are a British Award Winning Brand of Toiletries and Gifts committed to make a difference through the way in which we make and sell our products. Read our story online..

We pay special attention to the power of how scents and smells intensify emotions and permeate into the moment itself. It is a form of escapism and being totally in the present.

Our reusable packing is cleverly designed so that you are reminded of the experience every time you re-use our sets.

Our formulations are paraben free, vitamin infused and laced with natural extracts. Our moisture locking formulations are thick and luxurious.

We have a very exclusive boutique clientele and we select or invite our traders to stock our range as we don’t want to be found on every shelf on every high street.

Our sets are hand finished and not mass produced so we really treasure the exclusivity and the right of passage created by the fact that we are never in competition with anyone but ourselves. Our non saturation policy protects our retailers whilst our ethos has been to create quality at an affordable price.

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

First of its Kind Technology Enviroscent, known for its sustainable paper-based fragranced sticks, launches Caption Fragrance Co., a new brand range designed to provide fragrance through a simple but high-tech, patented format of sustainable paper sticks infused with pure essential oils designed to give consumers the most authentic fragrance experience available. Through first-of-its-kind technology, fragrance is released at a constant rate over 30 with no need for flames, oils or mess. Its available in three different formats designed for convenient use at home or on the go.

Enviroscent Email: uksales@enviroscent.com www.enviroscent.com Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand 5A23

Monochrome Collection Black is the new... er black, say Transomnia. The great gift buying public is increasingly moving away from shabby chic and is now looking for clearer lines and crisper colours. Over the last year, Scandi has become the new Shabby and this trend is set to continue through 2016, but there is an additional new direction now towards the simplest colour of all - black. Transomnia's new Monochrome collection is comprised of items whose dominant (and sometimes only) colour is black. This striking new collection offers simplicity of design and up to the minute style - perfect for minimalist urban living, but also a welcome addition to homes that have just got a bit too shabby.

Transomnia Tel: 01892 703660 Email: sales@transomnia.com www.transomnia.com Spring Fair: Hall 7 Stand E04-F03

In Bloom Longevity is key when it comes to a strong promotional range, which is why Wax Lyrical has designed a solution to cover Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Easter. With en eye-catching Spring design, gift packs of candles and reed diffusers form the main collection with individual diffusers to extend the range. Bloom is a gifting solution that will carry through from February to end of Summer and beyond.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111, Email: customerservice@wax-lyrical.co.uk www.waxlyricaltrade.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand E41

For The Men Enjoy the experience of shopping on our fabulous new stand at the NEC in Hall 4, where you’ll discover over 500+ affordable new exciting own designed gift and home décor products. As a family business we pride ourselves in offering friendly and personal service. Our exclusive collections are on trend, including an addition to our very successful For the Men range, with new LED light plaques natural wood items and glassware. Come and take a look.

Richard Lang & Son Tel 01332 340927 Email:sales@richardlang.co.uk www.richardlang.co.uk Spring Fair Hall 4 stand E50/F51

Hey! Baby Widdop & Co’s premium baby brand, Bambino, combines smart, understated design with contemporary style to produce traditional giftware for newborns. 2016 sees the launch of new knitted plush, innovative storage for keepsakes including a My First Outfit box and amazing new photo frames. Stylish packaging in ivory, cream and silver, completes the product making Bambino the perfect range for that touching, sentimental and loving gift for a christening, baby shower or otherwise.

Widdop & Co Tel: 0161 688 1226 Email: sales@widdop.co.uk www.widdop.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand G10-J11

Let’s Get Married Enjoy the experience of shopping on our fabulous new stand at the NEC in Hall 4, where you’ll discover over 500+ affordable new own designed exciting gift and home décor products. As a family business we pride ourselves in offering friendly and personal service. Our exclusive collections are on trend, including an addition to our very successful Let’s Get Married range with new cushions, LED light bottles, mugs and sentiment plaques . Come and take a look.

Richard Lang & Son Tel 01332 340927 Email:sales@richardlang.co.uk www.richardlang.co.uk Spring Fair Hall 4 stand E50/F51 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Bea’s Wees Ev-wee gift giving occasion is catered for with the whimsical Bea’s Wees collection designed

by Natalie Kibbe for Enesco, as the wideranging selection of new introductions for January 2016 reveals. From gifts of love, for Easter and for fathers and mothers, there’s al character to express exactly how you feel, to whom, whenever you need!

But it’s not all about special occasions, with new characters with heartfelt messages such as: ‘missing you’, ‘sparkle’, ‘celebrate!’, ‘feel better’ and ‘proud’.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4H90-J91

Lifestyle Enamelware With the launch of their William Morris collections, Briers brings to market new lifestyle enamelware in iconic Honeysuckle and Strawberry Thief designs - two much-loved patterns created by the hugely influential British Arts & Crafts designer and his family. This 10-piece enamelware range beautifully captures this sentiment and includes seed tins, metal mugs, watering cans, triple herb pots and string in a tin, and perfectly complement the other 24 products in the collections. Finished with well-thought-out, artful labelling and pre-priced with an easily removable label. Prices start from only £5.99!

Briers Tel: 01963 279077 Email: sales@briersltd.co.uk www.briersltd.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 6-7 Stand 6P56

Herend & De Rosa At Spring Fair, Global Luxury Brands are showcasing two of their brands, both new to the show. Herend, well known to connoisseurs as the very best hand painted porcelain tableware and giftware in the world. De Rosa however, may not be known to so many. After huge success in the USA and Australia we are now showing the superb range of hand carved, hand painted ceramic animals. For something different with assured exclusivity, come and see us on stand 4G89.

Global Luxury Brands Tel: 01538807780 Email: simon.willis@globalluxurybrands.co.uk www.globalluxurybrands.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand G89

Natural Tree Selection Quality & Design Christopher Vine Design, the leading Australian homeware brand, continues to add style to the UK homeware market. Amalgamating unique creativity with quality and design, ranges include Cotton Bud, a colourful quirky design sure to brighten any room. Available in four colourways - perfect to mix and match! Christopher Vine Design is distributed in the UK and Eire by: Valerie Graham Tel: 020 8200 5100 Email: sales@valerie-graham.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 9, Stand 9M01-N01

This Kaemingk`s Everlands tree range is completely inspired by nature.

With realistic branches, shapes and colours, these are the most authentic looking artificial Christmas trees! Now all include a 12 years guarantee.

Kaemingk Tel: +44 12 54 85 11 18 Email: kaemingkltd@aol.com www.kaemingk.com Spring Fair: Hall 2. Stand 2C04-D05

New Colour Bolt Add some colour to a cup of tea with these directional new Colour Bolt breakfast cups and saucers from Maxwell & Williams. Bright, graphic and generously sized, they are perfect for those who like a little extra of their favourite brew. Made from prestige porcelain, microwave and dishwasher safe, they come gift boxed.

Maxwell & Williams is distributed by: Valerie Graham Tel: 020 8200 5100 Email: sales@valerie-graham.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 9, Stand 9M01-N01 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Innovative New Sculptures Frith Sculpture are introducing more stunning and innovative sculpture for the new season. Shown here is their delightful new Tulip and Thimble Hares, skilfully created by Thomas Meadows, surely a most unusual Mother's Day gift. Also see their two new dogs sculpted by Harriet Dunn - Rudi the Dachshund and Duke, an imposing Alsation.

The collection consists of over 200 bronze finish designs, which will be displayed at the Fair, originally sculpted by British artists and then handmade by their craftspeople in Somerset. Other new creations for the show are puffins, Highland cattle, lambs and more hares. A We invite everyone to visit our stand and are certain you will admire the fine quality of the original sculpting and the skill taken with every work of art. You will also realise how well they will sell in your store.

Stunning cold cast bronze exclusive sculpture from Frith – created originally by British artists and hand made on Exmoor by our craftspeople. We have been supplying to British retailers for 22 years now. We try to be innovative and introduce additions to our collection every six months. At Spring Fair we will introduce 18 new works of art including the wonderful new hare design Tulip and Thimble – plus many other animals and a skilfully designed selection to mark the start of Chinese New Year – the year of the Monkey!

Also take advantage of our introductory best seller pack and receive free sculpture!

Frith Sculpture Tel: 01666 577110 Email: sales@frithsculpture.co.uk www.frithsculpture.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4G52

Dream Big Following last year’s successful launch of the Peanuts by Jim Shore collection, featuring the much loved comic strip characters of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang, 14 witty, colourful figurines are added to the range. Linus, Franklin, Sally, Marcie and Snoopy’s sister, Belle join the Personality Pose Collection. Also new are figurines based on favourite scenes from the comic strips such as Snoopy & Woodstock Beach Buddies.

Also, there’s a debut appearance of Snoopy’s alter ego, Joe Cool as The Blues Beagle.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4H90-J91

Coo-lest gifts

The Hairy Coos - Highland cows and calves dressed in winter warmers and chic accessories are one of the most loved of Border Fine Arts gift collections. Whatever the occasion, there’s a fashion-conscious cow to raise a smile and lift the moo’d! Five smart new coos join the hairy herd in 2016 and cheekily three of the new figurines don onesies to impersonate other cattle breeds. Each Hairy Coo is packaged in a glossy white box with bright logo sticker, making amoos-ing gifts for friends and family alike.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4H90-J91

Facematt Cards Following the success of the Facematt sets and games that were a massive hit last year, Brainbox Candy is extremely chuffed, nay estatic, to launch Facematt greeting cards. Each card in this amazing range has a pop-off double sided facemat, that you can wear on your face, creating a totally unique, fun birthday card experience. There are 12 designs with many more to follow.

All cards are printed on quality FSC accredited board, come cello wrapped with colourful envelopes and are, of course, made in the UK. Brainbox Candy Tel: 01702 716643 Email: info@brainboxcandy.com brainboxcandytrade.com Spring Fair: Hall 3-3A, Stand 3S50-T51

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Office Humour Transomnia are tapping into the growing market for humorous gifts for workplace colleagues with their new range of office humour mugs Anyone who's ever worked in an office (or anywhere else for that matter!) will surely appreciate the sentiments expressed in this new series of mugs.

Supplied in attractive natural card display boxes, these mugs are finalists in the 2016 Gift of the Year awards Transomnia Tel: 01892 703660 Email: sales@transomnia.com www.transomnia.com Spring Fair: Hall 7 Stand E04-F03

Notebook Collection Following the huge success Maranda Ti enjoys using Marilyn Robertson’s fantastic imagery across our product range, we are now delighted to be launching our Notebook collection featuring Marilyn’s Kimono designs. A taste of the Orient flavours this collection which are finished in gems, foil, emboss and flitter. The Notebooks are handbag sized, containing 75 high grade printed pages per book. The book cover has a magnetic fastener.

Maranda Ti Tel: 01628 523866 Email: gifts@maranda-ti.com www.maranda-ti.com Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand B49

Welly Boot Manicure Sets Funky designs and bright colours – these manicure sets are ideal for the washbag when travelling as well as looking good on the bathroom shelf. Each contains four good quality tools, and the lid of each boot opens to reveal a handy mirror. See these and lots more at Spring Fair.

Clere Concepts Tel: 01635 297911 Email: info@clereconcepts.co.uk www.clereconcepts.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C41

Magnetic Mirrors Following the huge success we have enjoyed with our Mi Torch Vintage collection, Maranda Ti have now launched a collection of magnetic PU mirrors in an attractive display. Also available are pill box versions of the same designs. Fabulous retail prices of only £4.99 will also ensure these collections enhance the beauty offering from Maranda Ti. Maranda Ti Tel: 01628 523866 Email: gifts@maranda-ti.com www.maranda-ti.com Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand B49

Music Mugs Spring Fair sees the launch of three striking new mugs from The Music Gifts Company.

These wonderful designs have been created exclusively for them by award-winning designer Vikki Gibson. There is a choice of pop, jazz and blues - each design perfectly depicting its musical genre.

Whatever your musical preference, there is something for everyone. All the mugs are hand-decorated in Stoke.

The Music Gifts Company Tel: 01202 57 00 57 Email: enquiries@musicgifts.co.uk www.musicgifts.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand A53

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Flower Pot Pen Four bright and cheerful pens for the Spring/Summer season. Each soft touch flexible stem has a large brightly coloured flower on top and stands in a terracotta coloured pot.

Available in display packs of 12. See these and lots more at Spring Fair.

Clere Concepts Tel: 01635 297911 Email: info@clereconcepts.co.uk www.clereconcepts.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C41

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products on show at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 7-11 February 2016.

Unlock The Love

Bike Mug Cycle widows and orphans always struggle to find the perfect gift for their bike-mad husbands, wives, dads or siblings. Seek a different route to their gifting needs! Our bike mug is the perfect present for cyclists. The white mug features a 3D bike-shaped handle and bike related phrase for example: ‘Live to ride’ ‘King of the mountain’ etc. It’s sure to be appreciated as their mug of choice when it comes to enjoying a brew after a ride.

Boxer Gifts Tel: 01133 955 599 Email: sales@boxergifts.com www.boxergifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand A04/B03

DEMDACO’s Art Hearts collection continues to go from strength to strength and January 2016 welcomes the addition of five beautiful new designs. Each heart features a contemporary and imaginative design with sentiments of love, friendship or celebration. Highlights of the launch include two brand new themes being introduced for the first time: Grandma Art Heart, decorated with a vibrant modern pattern designed by Rebecca Jones, and True Friends Art Heart featuring beautiful folksy botanical motifs, designed by Valentina Ramos.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4H90-J91

Contemporary Classics

Emoji Flipbook For when words just aren't enough… Having a great day? Or feeling under the weather? These little smiley faces and amusing icons are a very useful way to show your mood when sending text messages so why not bring them into the real world? Each page in this fun flip book is divided into four sections, each with a different emoticon. Just flip the pages to create a pictorial message that fits your frame of mind. RRP £5.99.

Boxer Gifts Tel: 01133 955 599 Email: sales@boxergifts.com www.boxergifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand A04/B03

Building on the success since its launch in June 2013, Border Fine Arts proudly launched three striking new dog studies in its Contemporary Classics collection in Autumn 2015. In the endearing dog figurines - a Pug, French Bulldog and Staffie (in two colourways) - the emphasis on movement and character over anatomical realism is captured to stunning effect. All Contemporary Classics studies are entirely handmade in our Scottish Studios in Langholm and hand-painted by our highly-skilled artists - a provenance that speaks volumes for the quality of every piece.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand 4H90-J91

Songbird Suncatcher

Vibrance Collection Add some extra sparkle to your shelves with the new Vibrance collection from Hambledon Studios. The range features bold designs, bouncy editorial, and unbeatable prices. With 380 fantastic designs, Vibrance covers a whole host of occasions including wedding, new baby, anniversary and so many more.

Incorporating luxury finishes, great prices and a whole host of styles, Vibrance is the ideal selection for any wholesaler’s shelves!

Hambledon Studios Tel: 0845 1300007 Email: wholesaleshipping@hallmark-uk.com Spring Fair: Hall 3 Stand 3M22

Exciting times at Wild Things Gifts. A new catalogue, a revamped website, a new display - all on show at the Spring Fairand, of course, lots of new products including this gorgeous songbird suncatcher, featuring genuine Swarovski(R) crystals. Visit the stand to see it in all its glory, and take advantage of one of the many special offers on starter packs.

Alternatively you can register on the website.

Wild Things Tel: 01392 211268 Email: Sales@wildthingsgifts.com www.wildthingsgifts.com Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand C61 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

One Stop Warehouse These composite stone pairs of classic facing lions are just an example from a diverse range of statuary that we carry in varying sizes and designs including other animal statuary both large and small, plus male and female statues, cherubs, buddha’s, dragons and everything in between.

We also stock a variety of other composite stone garden features including bird baths, fountains, urns, wall planters and staddle stones. So a good variety – plus we also stock statuary, urns, and classic benches in cast iron. In a complementary way, being able to offer these two different choices of materials has always proven to be very popular for us and for our customers to be able to offer their customers their choice of decorative and useful garden pieces.

Dealers Ltd Tel: 01743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com www.dealers-uk.com

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Quirky One Offs Always available in stock at Dealers, a most unusual mix of goods to meet your stocking needs and your refurbishment and design needs. Lots of unusual quirky one off feature items can also be found at our showroom/warehouse.

New and exciting products come in daily - we never know what will arrive next! Along with all the old and vintage items, we also carry our regular stocking lines - easy for you to repeat. Here is an example of old and new just arriving at our warehouse.

Dealers Ltd Tel: 01743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com www.dealers-uk.com

Exciting New Licenses Posh Paws range continues to expand at fast pace and has added some great new licensed properties to its existing portfolio of high quality plush, backpacks and accessories. The all new product line-up includes: The Secret Life of Pets, new Tsum Tsum collections, Finding Dory, Zootropolis, Lion Guard, Miles from Tomorrow and Jungle Book to name but a few. In addition, Posh Paws will launch brand new Disney Baby character ranges that will be available for retail in 2016.

Posh Paws Tel: 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Toy Fair – D89 Spring Fair: Hall 5, Stand 5E22

Ceramic Bakeware

EastWest Gets Tango'd

Wade Ceramics are very experienced in the development and production of ceramic products. These new products, from the Milton Brook range, are made using the finest porcelain. Wade’s bakeware has been thoughtfully designed and manufactured to deliver the very best cooking experience for bakers around the world. These expertly crafted pieces are produced in a range of shapes and sizes to suit all of your cooking requirements.

Wade Ceramics Tel: +44 (0)845 481 0206 Email: enquiries@wade.co.uk www.wade.co.uk

Luxury Lighting

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

The Tango licensing programme has been expanded with the addition of EastWest (Europe) as gift licensee.

The company will produce mugs, tinware including storage and money tins, coasters, keyrings and a specific drinkware range including glasses, bottle openers and tin coolers. The range will use the latest Tango style guide and feature brand phrases such as the well known 'You've Been Tango'd' line. 2016 will see further new products launched including popcorn and ice cream. For more details call Ian Downes.

Start Licensing Tel: 0208 337 7958 Email: ian@startlicensing.co.uk

2015 heralds an exciting return to luxury lighting from one of England’s most famous and established ceramic makers. Wade invites you to share in its passion for great design and innovation. These exclusive pieces are handcrafted in Staffordshire and are finished to the highest standards. Offering a bespoke design and development service, Wade delivers unique pieces which enable you to stand out from the crowd - for all the right reasons.

Wade Ceramics Tel: +44 (0)845 481 0206 Email: enquiries@wade.co.uk www.wade.co.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest Mothers Day gift products to be showcased this month.

For Mum Puckator has plenty of choice when it comes to pretty and perfect gifts for mums on Mother’s Day. The fresh and colourful design of their new Botanical Garden collection is ideal and set to be a best-seller for 2016. The range includes compact mirrors, glasses cases, nail files, lip balms, tin mugs and vacuum flasks. With so many products to choose from, it’s easy to create an eye-catching floral display and brighten up your windows ready for Spring.

Puckator Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand C10-D11

Warming Gift Sets Aroma Home are continuing to expand their selection of warming gift solutions with the introduction of gift sets. These gift sets incorporate their best-selling products but also include new products which create a well-being factor. All gift sets come beautifully packaged in two colours, pink and grey, and are the ideal gift.

Aroma Home Tel: 0203 735 9500 Email :info@aromahome.com www.aromahome.com Spring Fair: Hall 6/7, Stand U21

My Mum Signature have once again expanded their range of occasions gifts with another fantastic addition to their personalised books. The perfect way to show Mum how much you appreciate her with this book that's personalised with your name and message This book of rhymes lets mum know that for everything she does, you think she’s the best! RRP from £9.99. Browse the full range and more at Spring Fair.

Signature Gifts Tel: 01582 464 809 www.signature-gifts.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4D60-E61

A Message That Lasts Forever Spaceform, the innovators of contemporary glass tokens, are engraving intricate messages onto their core tokens from their studio in London. A wide range of core product can be used to produce your very own messages too, with a minimum of only four pieces to start. Take a look at their website for some wonderful gift ideas they have in time for Mother's Day, as well as romantic tokens, gifts for friendship, family and all other occasions.

Spaceform Tel: 020 7736 6211 info@spaceform.com www.spaceform.com

New Orla Kiely Wild & Wolf announces a new collaboration with renowned designer Orla Kiely. Continuing Orla’s trademark stem design, this range takes on an original, fresh colour theme, perfect for Spring and Summer.

Garden trowel and fork sets make for an ideal gift this Mother’s Day. A stand out product for the collection is the retro-style, brightly coated watering can. Completing the range are seed pots, a garden kneeler, potting gloves and secateurs.

Wild & Wolf Tel: 01225 789909 Email: sales@wildandwolf.com www.wildandwolf.com Spring Fair: Hall 6 Stand H42-J43

A Little Box Of...

Gaeltag is excited to be presenting a brand new impulse gift line called ‘A Little Box of …’ at Spring Fair. The product is a set of individual mini gift boxes tailored to different occasions from Birthdays wishes to 'thank you’s', to celebrating special relationships and friends. Designed for counter-top display, the individual boxes come ready merchandised in a mixed set contained in a bright, eye-catching display outer. Perfect for the office, or as ‘thank you teacher' gifts. Gaeltag Keltika will be in their new location at Spring Fair.

Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com www.gaeltagkeltika.com/www.cowparade.eu Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4DO1

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Best Sellers Progressive Gifts & Home asked a selection of retailers about the products which have been flying off their shelves this month.

Phil Parkes, owner, Cliftons, Lytham A large shop on a high street CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Voyage: wooden sculptures

Something new and different that fits in with the rest of their brand.

Fragranced Giftware

Marmalade: across the board;

Visually strong. We get lots of repeat business.

Pintail Candles: across the board

Good price points.

Attractively packaged.

Customers often buy more than one.

Dansk Smykkekunst: across the board; Edblad: stainless steel

Leather based jewellery featuring rose gold are the most popular.

The Glow collection is our best seller.

Fashion Accessories

Helen Moore: faux fur

Attractive, high quality design-led fashion accessories.

Greeting Cards

Belly Button

Bright, colourful cards with appropriate sentiments. New designs come out regularly.

Giftwrap

Deva

Quality wrap that fits in with the type of products we sell.

Other Hot Hits

L C Designs: Jacob Jones

We do very well with men's leather accessories ranging from watch boxes and shoe shine to men's trays.

Jewellery

Above: Cliftons, Lytham.

Roger Eames, director, Celebrations of Stourbridge A large gift and card shop on a high street

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Widdop Bingham: glass tea light holders;

These make a really good gift, especially for the winter months.

Fragranced Giftware

Di Palomo: toiletries

Great fragrances, very well presented.

Jewellery

Joe Davies: Equilibrium;

Great value. The company is always bringing out new designs.

Good quality, fashionable designs.

Espree: silver

Fashion Accessories

Cath Kidston: bags and purses

A strong brand with two major seasonal launches each year.

Greeting Cards

IC&G

Family ages are great sellers and cover a lot of options.

Giftwrap

Glick

Great designs, good value.

Other Hot Hits

Ravensburger: puzzles

We have a large selection of puzzles that ensure great repeat business.

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PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

Above: Celebrations of Stourbridge.

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Harriet DeWolff, co-owner, The Indigo Tree, Streatham, S London Small gift shop on a high street CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Smiley Faces: Up In Lights;

Extremely popular for any age group. Good price range.

Lots of variety and different sizes. Great designs.

Transomnia: photo frames

Fragranced Giftware

Jewellery

Mirrens: aromatherapy personal fragrances; Naturally European: bath and body

Beautiful and edible.

Crystal & Stone: across the board;

Very, very delicate, beautifully made silver and gold jewellery.

Fashion led. Great prices.

Very popular with customers.

Tempest: contemporary

The fragrances are delicious.

Above: The Indigo Tree, Streatham.

Greeting Cards

Shakey by James Ellis

Eye-catching, beautiful cards.

Giftwrap

ArteBene

Good quality giftwrap, great designs. Beautiful bags and wrap.

Other Hot Hits

Orange Tree Toys: push alongs

Lovely hand-painted wooden toys.

Jane Richard, owner, Ark, Cambridge A large gift shop opposite the Cambridge Tourist Information Centre CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Lesser & Pavey: glass hanging frames;

These clear glass, double sided frames hang on a string. People can interpret them in any way they want.

They look like an angle poise 1950s desk lamp.

We can't keep up with orders!

McGowan Rutherford: floor standing lamps

Fragranced Giftware

Vineyard Candles: across the board

Pintail Candles: across the board

These natural wax candles come in recycled wine and champagne bottles. Fragrances Above: Ark, Cambridge. include Gin & Tonic, Merlot and Prosecco.

The candles are Made in Britain and retail for under ÂŁ5. We have our own logo on the tin and sell them all year round. We never stop ordering.

Jewellery

Siren Silver: charms and pendants; Rodney Holman: Christmas brooches

The traditional silver charms and animal pendants sell really well, as do the lockets.

These were brilliant sellers. People came back for more.

Good price points.

Fashion Accessories

Ark Wholesale: leather pouches; Bronte Tweed: scarves

Great colours and designs. A best seller is the 'lip' purse.

Greeting Cards

Holy Mackerel

Our best seller is the David Fawcett humorous range.

Giftwrap

Cambridge Imprint

Good quality wrap that's Made in England. It makes a lovely display in the shop.

Other Hot Hits

Dowman Imports: plush; Key Craft: Living Nature plush

We stock one of their most expensive ranges, and it's the most popular.

More product is now available than in previous years. Good price points.

Large scarves that are made in the UK from 100% wool. A huge range.

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Best Sellers

What better testimonial for products than those of your fellow retailers. Here's all the information you need to get in touch and start stocking!

DANSK SMYKKEKUNST T: 0161 653 1586 E: info@pa-agencies.co.uk W: www.pa-agencies.co.uk

JOE DAVIES T: 0161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk W: www.joedavies.co.uk

DI PALOMO T: 01803 612772 E: debbie@dipalomo.com W: www.dipalomo.com

UP T: E: W:

PINTAIL CANDLES T: 015395 59007 E: sales@pintailcandles.com W: www.pintailcandles.com

GLICK T: 01274 655980 E: info@glick.co.uk W: www.glick.co.uk

BELLY BUTTON DESIGNS T: 0161 902 0200 E: kerry@bellybuttondesigns.com W: www.bellybuttondesigns.com

LESSER & PAVEY T: 01322 279 225 E: SALES@LEONARDO.CO.UK W: WWW.LEONARDO.CO.UK

IN LIGHTS FROM SMILING FACES 01444 882323 sales@smilingfaces.co.uk www.smilingfaces.co.uk

ARTEBENE T: 0044 20 8588 9510 E: info@artebene.com W: www.artebene.com 164

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Last Word

With a newly appointed chief executive at the Giftware Association and a new chairman taking over the reins later this year, PG&H reveals what makes them tick.

Sarah Ward Sarah Ward's first introduction to retail was as a schoolgirl in Bath. She went on to hold senior positions at Next and the Burton Group as well as Arcadia and Coast, where Sarah Ward. colleagues along the way included Sir Stuart Rose and Peter Jones.

Sarah subsequently became a director of Penny Kennedy, before joining The Giftware Association as chief executive last Autumn. l Three words that best describe you? "Passionate,

astute, stylish." l Is there a quirky fact we don't know about you? "I snuck out

of school in Bath when I was 15 to work in a French baguette shop!" l What was the best business advice you have ever been

given? "Just make a decision." It was said to me by my then boss Stuart Rose, and more recently by Chris Leonard-Morgan, the man behind the London Stationery Show and National Stationery Week, who passed on advice that had previously been given to him.” l What's the best advice that you would give to someone else?

"Take on board all the advice you are given, but stick to what you believe in." l What are your favourite TV programmes? "Home

programmes such as Grand Designs, A Place In The Sun and George Clarke's Small Places. I also love The Good Wife on Netflix." l What's your favourite film? "Breakfast At Tiffany's." l What are your favourite books? "I'm a voracious, diverse

reader, so it would have to be Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, A Year In Provence by Peter Mayle and novels by the author Cecelia Ahern." l Where is your favourite holiday or place to visit? "Mykonos

which is beautiful and chic with food to die for!" l How do you start your day? "I live over a river which looks

different every day, so I take five minutes out to gaze at it and enjoy what I see, before making coffee and sorting out my 13year-old son's school uniform. Before I start work, I always chat to everyone to find out how they are." l How do you end your day? "Midweek, after making dinner and

helping with schoolwork, I like to go to the gym." l What do you love most about your home? "It's very tidy, very

clean, very co-ordinated. Also, I love collecting bric-a-brac." l What's your favourite item of clothing? "A navy velvet dress I

bought for The Henries Awards, organised by Progressive Greetings. I also love a silver chevron dress my mum had in the '70s. It was full length and I had it shortened. I recently wore it to PG Live." l Which one item would you take to a desert island and why?

"My red lipstick in case a handsome hunk came to rescue me!"

Henri Davis

As an independent retail advisor to businesses in the gifts, cards, stationery and heritage industries, Henri Davis combines 30 years of retail experience with a Henri Davis. knowledge of trends and consumer motivation to analyse markets and identify new opportunities.

She has worked at Habitat, Next, WH Smith and the National Trust and is also part-time head of buying and merchandising at Scribbler. Currently vice chairman of The Giftware Association, she takes over as chairman in the summer. l Three words that best describe you? "Organised; loyal;

fresh air-lover." l Is there a quirky fact we don't know about you? "I love a

slice of fruit cake with a cup of tea and the time to enjoy it in the afternoon, preferably looking out over a beautiful view." l What was the best business advice you have ever been

given? "Never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t be prepared to do yourself." l What's the best advice that you would give to

someone else? "Lead by example and don’t be afraid to work really hard when necessary." l What's your favourite TV programme? "I watch very little TV,

but at the moment it is Who Do You Think You Are?" l What's your favourite film? "Love Actually, a real feelgood film." l What's your favourite book? "Mrs Tiggy Winkle by Beatrix Potter.

It is really reminiscent of my childhood and very evocative for me." l Where's your favourite holiday or place to visit? "The beach

at Rhossilli." l What time do you wake up and how do you start your day?

"Usually 6am but I prefer 7am! Until relatively recently it was taking our two dogs for a morning walk in the clear air. Currently however, I'm in London two or three days a week but try to walk to the office if I can." l How do you usually end your day? "I work well at night so if I

am away I work as late as I can and then fall into bed and am asleep within seconds." l How do you like to relax? "Walking and being with my

husband Rob." l What's the best gift that you've ever received? "I've had

some wonderful gifts over the years but now the thing I value most is time with Rob and the children." l What's the best gift that you've ever given to someone

else? "Recently I spent four days in Yorkshire with my sister and my mum going to the area where my mum was born and revisiting places from her childhood that she hadn’t seen for 60 years. She was blown away." l Which one item would you take to a desert island and

why? "Walking boots so I could explore the island."

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED BESPOKE

Intelligent eCommerce

Sell more

Online

Manufacturer & distributor at your door.

Your one stop shop for bespoke photo frames.

Wood, plastic, metal & glass frames.

Our expert team have all the reputable qualifications to drive your business forward.

With an outstanding creative team, leaders in SEO, and a premium shopping engine, we are all you need to propel your business forward. With hundreds of sparkling eCommerce sites and a proven history of success, find out more about our fine range of solutions today.

T: 01908976443 E: sales@homsquare.co.uk www.homsquare.co.uk

GIFT IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS

Just a few reasons to buy from Joe Davies: Over 7500 gift lines Low £100 minimum order ‘Little & Often’ order system Free carriage Please contact our award winning sales staff for further details Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

www.joedavies.co.uk

GIFTS & GREETINGS

TRADE ASSOCIATION

bsite paid “The EPoS system and welf months.” ha a d for itself in four an dred

Paul, One Hun

The Giftware Association is the UK’s long established trade association serving retailers and suppliers in the gift and home industry, offering a wide selection of money-saving services, including free marketing, product offers, discounted hotel rates, legal advice and much more.

Rachel - Customer Services

Website: www.ga-uk.org Email: enquiries@ga-uk.org Tel: 0121 237 1104 10 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6LT

Call us on 0845 68 00 126 or email info@intelligentretail.co.uk

FOR SALE POSITION: Buyer, gifts, packaging and party Scribbler is a vibrant, humorous card, gift & stationery retailer with over 30 shops in the UK

Profitable, prime location gift and kitchen ware business for sale in East Anglia.

Leasehold consists of 2000 square feet sales floor plus upper floor storage. Stockists of major gift and kitchen brands.

We are looking for an experienced Buyer to join our hardworking and dynamic Buying and Merchandising team in our Head Office in Kennington, London.

This role requires someone who is passionate about product and finding the next great product that will excite our customers and drive sales.

★ Yankee Candle ★ Charlie Bears ★ Steiff ★ Enesco ★ Nemesis Now ★ Joe Davies ★ Widdop and Co. ★ Kitchen Craft ★ Horwoods ★ Portmeirion

As part of the team you will be responsible for: + + + + + + +

Sourcing new products for your categories that fulfil the range strategy Driving sales and profit of your product categories Analysing sales of current products to identify strengths and weaknesses of current range Develop a calendar of promotional opportunities Working with the merchandisers to deliver the stock strategy for the category Negotiating terms with suppliers Developing visual merchandising guidelines for implementation

To do this effectively you will need the following skills and experience: + + + + + + +

Previous retail buying experience as a buyer or junior buyer Experience of working in a design led retail business Negotiation experience Strong analytical skills, numerate Proficient with Excel Good planning and organisational skills Enjoy being part of an energetic team and a good team player

The position is full time (35 hours per week), Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and we offer a competitive salary.

Established 10 years Please Email all enquires to: lena.ina291@gmail.com

Interested applicants should send their CV together with a brief covering email to work@scribbler.co.uk by Friday 12th February we will contact suitable applicants for interview shortly after that.

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www.dealers-uk.com We have a constantly changing assortment of over 8,000 items including decorative goods, old and new, recycled, vintage, upcycled and reproduction items of furniture, accessories, garden wares, architectural and unusual items It is well worth a visit to our 36,000 square feet warehouse and acres of outside show area or visit our website

www.dealers-uk.com Contact us on: Phone: +44 (0)1743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com TRADE ONLY Covers.indd 2 2016.indd 1 IFC_GH_February

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FEBRUARY 2016 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

VISIT US IN HALL 4 AT STAND E41

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