Progressive Gifts and Home May/June 2015

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May/June 2015

KRINGLE CANDLE速 available from

emails: sales@xystos.co.uk

Contact

Tel: +44 (0)191 499 1570

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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

This Month

The best news in recent weeks has undoubtedly been the Treasury's chief secretary Danny Alexander's announcement of a 'radical' review of the medieval business rates system which, for all too long, has punished local high streets.

Helen Dickinson, director general of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), summed it up perfectly. "It's great news for all of us who want a fairer, more efficient and sustainable system."

The phrase 'fiscal neutrality', which has not yet been defined by the government, seems to be the phrase of contention, but you can be sure the lobbyists are on the case and will be in the retailers’ corner! (See Feedback on pages 25-27 for the opinions of independent gift retailers up and down the country).

As we're all only too aware, business rates have been a major factor for shop closures across the board, but for those left standing and viewing their future on the high street positively - which includes many gift retailers - the good news is that decisions, hopefully sensible ones, will be taken before the next Budget in 2016. With an uncertain outcome to the General Election on May 7, thankfully all the major parties support the review.

Meanwhile, greeting cards too, have been in the news recently thanks to Ed Miliband, whose 2014 Christmas card 'outed' him as 'two kitchens' Ed. In December, he and his family were pictured on an official Christmas card in their spacious family kitchen, while in March, Ed and his wife Justine were filmed by the BBC in a smaller, sparser second kitchen! Who'd have thought a Christmas card could wield such power in getting hapless Ed more unwelcome column inches!

Talk of greeting cards also brings me to a major event taking place at the beginning of June - the dedicated greeting card show PG Live, organised by Max Exhibitions. Now in its savvy seventh year, the show concentrates purely on cards - an increasingly important and profitable part of the product mix for many gift retailers as the recent PG&H Retailer Barometer - and Mother's Day - revealed. With everything under one roof, from the smallest start-ups to the biggest greeting card publishers, there's a lot for gift retailers to discover on the card front. See All Decked Out on pages 31-33 to find out more.

And finally, we couldn't be more excited to start the countdown to The Greats Awards which take place at the historic Savoy Hotel on Thursday May 7 - co-incidentally General Election day! With trendy tropicana as the theme, it's not too difficult to picture pineapples and palm trees mingling with coconuts and cocktails as guests are transported to the tropics! With a menu that's been specially created for The Greats by a top chef at the Savoy, there will be lots of lovely bubbly at the pre-lunch reception, and a first class comedian to 'warm' everyone up before the winners of the Awards are announced!

If you'd like to join us, contact event organiser Clare Davis on 0118 334 0085 or email: clare@createvents.co.uk. The event sold out last year, and at the time of going to press towards the end of April, there are only a handful of tickets left!

Hope to see you there!

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

Above: Sue met up with three real life 'cardies' at last year's dedicated greeting card show, PG Live.

Publishers

May/June 2015

Jacqueline Brown, Warren Lomax and Ian Hyder

KRINGLE CANDLE®

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

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Cover: Lemon Rind by Kringle Candle, distributed by Xystos.

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Copyright 2008. 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.

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See us at Pulse 2015, Stand H52, 10-12 May 2015

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Greeting Card & Brace let‌ The perfect combined gift in one!

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Inside 7-19

News

21

Gift of the Gab NOW IS THE TIME...

23

Sounding Off YOUR HIGH STREET NEEDS YOU

25-27

Feedback: Business Rates Review RATING THE RATES

29

Trends WARM METALS

31-33

PG Live 2015 ALL DECKED OUT

Sterling Silver Jewellery

PAGES 31-33

PAGES 46-47

34-35

Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts MR AND MRS

39-45 Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing SUMMER DAYS, FRAGRANT WAYS 46-47

Spotlight On... Bath And Body TOP TO TOE PAMPERING

55-59

Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifs COOKING UP A STORM

66-67

Best Sellers

IBC

On The Road: Anna Bedford

IBC

Last Word: Louise Wallace

Call us for our latest catalogue

Sue Marks Editor

Angie Bryant Ian Hyder Advertisement Manager Publishing Director

suem@max-publishing.co.uk

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www.kitheathretailer.com Tel 01271 329123 Email sales@kitheath.com

ianh@max-publishing.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Industry News

The Greats

£1m Investment At Wax Lyrical

A Tropical Heatwave

The General Election on May 7 is not only a nail biting time for politicians. With the winners of The Greats 2015 gift retailer awards co-incidentally announced on the same day, The Greats Awards are going to be another closely run contest!

A stellar line-up of finalists range from the smallest to the largest gift retailers and gift departments - to include garden centres, museums/visitor attractions and jewellery shops - with each of them crossing their fingers tightly as the sponsor for each individual category reads out the winning shop names!

In addition, there will also be Greats 'gongs' for the Best Employee and the Best Service to the Independent Gift Retailer, as well as a very special Honorary Achievement Award for a special someone who has contributed greatly to the gift industry.

Prior to the Awards ceremony, there's sure to be plenty of laughter when stand up comedian and Greats compere Ben Norris entertains guests with his quick fire patter.

"It's been a long wait for our finalists, and we couldn't be more thrilled to be announcing the winners on May 7," comments PG&H's editor Sue Marks. "As always, the bar was raised higher than ever this year, demonstrating the wealth of gift retail talent that's out there which, as always, we are delighted to reward and recognise."

Evoking a feeling of exotic holidays, this year's theme is tropicana, with all guests receiving a take home goody bag brimming with themed gifts.

A list of all finalists can be found on The Greats website www.thegreatsawards.co.uk - with winners announced online, along with photos of the Awards, shortly after the event.

If you'd like to be a part of The Greats Awards but haven't booked your ticket yet, please contact event organiser Clare Davis on 0118 334 0085 or email: clare@createvents.co.uk. ❐ Every Greats finalist will also be receiving a £50 bonus voucher to spend at dedicated greeting card show PG Live which takes place on June 2-3 at London's Business Design Centre. (See All Decked Out on pages 31-33). ❐ The Greats Awards, organised by Progressive Gifts & Home magazine, and owned by Max Publishing, were first launched in 2003 to recognise and reward the very best in gift retail.

Above: Which shop names will be on the Greats trophies this year?

Above left: Comedian Ben Norris is hosting this year’s Greats Awards.

Left: Guests at last year's Awards lunch held at the Savoy in London.

Strategic plans for growth has led to Wax Lyrical investing £1m in its Cumbrian 80,000 sq ft factory to drive improvements in productivity. “We are making the investment to meet increasing demand for our products and to level off peaks in production," explains md Joanne Barber.“During our busiest period, which runs from August to December, we work double shifts to meet demand. Improved efficiency in production will mean that this is no longer required. However, having said that, if we need to up-scale production we will be able to do it with ease and to a far greater extent than was previously possible.”

Later this year, the company's in-house testing laboratory, will receive a complete upgrade and be moved to be closer to the factory's production lines. The introduction of a new wicking line will increase the production rate and the repositioning of the existing fill line will enable it to be extended.

Other improvements include a re-organisation of the factory to move the Above: Joanne Barber, liquid filling lines into the main md, Wax Lyrical. factory space to improve the flow of goods.

“Having re-shored the business back in 2007 we now manufacture 95% of the Wax Lyrical range ourselves," states Joanne. "It’s been a huge success and we have control over the quality and supply of our product. The factory improvements will further enhance this." (See Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing on pages 39-45).

Hollywood ‘A’ Lister Drops In

It's not every day that a Hollywood 'A' lister comes calling for natural scented candles, but that's exactly what happened to Best Kept Secrets, based in Northumberland, where the company manufactures its candles.

The candle company was the natural choice for the multi-award winning actor William Hurt, who was in the North of England filming scenes from his new blockbuster Beowulf.

"He wanted the scented candles for his trailer while staying in the North East, and his driver did some local research," explains coowner and director Denise Edwards. "They then called in to make their purchase."

The Hollywood star is best known for leading roles in Captain America, Children of a Lesser God and Broadcast News.

Below: Actor William Hurt.

The Greats 2015 Sponsors

The sponsors of The Greats 2015 are (in alphabetical order): Christmas & Gift Harrogate; Clarion Events/Home & Gift Harrogate; Dansk Smykkekunst; Davis and Brown; Di Palomo; Gisela Graham; i2i Events/Autumn Fair/Spring Fair; Joe Davies; Kaemingk; La De Da Living; London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week; Parlane International; Premier Decorations; Progressive Gifts & Home; Progressive Greetings Live; Really Good/Soul; Ravensden; Root Candles; The Giftware Association; Wild & Wolf; Xpressions 4 u and Yankee Candle.

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Industry News

Headline Grabbers

Return On Investment Award

Greats Finalists In The Media Spotlight

Among the numerous Greats finalists to hit the headlines in recent weeks was The Bottom Drawer in Portadown. The shop is co-owned by Gift shop hopes to have two national accolade all wrapped up sisters Rhonda Jardine and Frances Doran, who wasted no time in making the most of social media to shout about their success in

reaching the final stage in the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year North and Northern Ireland category, receiving tremendous feedback

from the shop's Facebook friends, the local council and the government.

"I posted a picture on Facebook of Rhonda and I holding a poster announcing the news that we were a finalist and the response was staggering!" enthused Frances. "It received one of the largest responses we have ever had on Facebook and over 50 people left encouraging messages."

Continues Frances: "In addition, our local MP copied our photo to his Facebook page to congratulate us on all our hard work and also to affirm what a great asset we are to the town of Portadown. He also offered to take us on a tour of The Houses of Parliament while in London for the Awards!"

Adds Frances: "I also contacted our town centre manager who thought it was a fabulous accolade for us and our town and is currently working with a PR agency to get as much coverage as possible for us.

We are doing our best to make a valued impact to ensure that this opportunity does not go unnoticed."

Welcome media attention has also augured well for GiftsMade4u in Northants, a finalist in the Best Newcomer Midlands, North and Scotland category.

IFTS-ADE U S-ADE U s 'IFTS-ADE U s 'IFTS-ADE U s 'IFTS-ADE U s ' "Our Facebook followers have been so supportive since we announced the good news about being in the final," confirmed co-owner Caroline Irons. "A local publication, the Hargrave Herald, delivered to local households, featured the press release. In addition, another publication, Village Connect, will be carrying a feature on us in their May/June issue. They deliver free of charge to approximately 18,000 households in our area so we are Raunds gift shop absolutely delighted!"

LQ LQGXVWU\ DZDUG Âż QDO Other Greats finalists who hit the headlines following their Greats nomination were Angela and David Theobalds, owners of Emporium in Winchcombe and Cheltenham, who received coverage in the Cotswold Journal and Gloucestershire Echo, Viv Stephen and Dave Blair, co-owners of Quirky Coo in Dundee, who were delighted with the coverage in the Dundee Courier, and Sally Matson, owner of Red Card, who received coverage in The Midhurst & Petworth Observer. "This is really fantastic coverage for Petworth and Red Card," commented Sally. â?? Elsewhere, two Greats finalists in the Edinburgh area - Homer, a finalist in the Best Lifestyle, Homewares and Gifts category, and The Brotique, a finalist in the Best Newcomer, Midlands, North and Scotland category - are considering the possibility of collaborating on joint marketing activities. "After all, we're both cool and hip!" quipped Jayne Ramage, owner of Homer.

NEWS

Emporium owners husband and wife team David Theobald and Angela Teasdale who are shortlisted for national awards for their shops in Winchcombe and Cheltenham

First published Tuesday 10 March 2015 in News

by Vivien Mason, senior reporter Follow

73 followers

A WINCHCOMBE family-run gift shop has been shortlisted in two categories of the national Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2015 nals, which recognises and rewards the best gift shops in the UK.

There was certainly return on investment for Widdop Bingham, when the company was announced as the winners of the Return On Investment (ROI) category at the SHD Logistics Awards, hosted by comedian Romesh Ranganathan, at the London Marriott Hotel in Grosvenor Square during March.

Widdop Bingham won for its commitment to its return on investment of the warehouse management system implemented only 12 months ago.

The judge’s comments, read out by Romesh live on stage, said: “This leading wholesaler clearly demonstrated a return on its investment, after it moved from a paper picking system to an automated one, which has delivered improved picking accuracy of 99.8%, labour savings, space utilisation and productivity by 10%.� “This was a fantastic evening for our company," said a jubilant Chris Illingworth, director of IT and logistics at Widdop Bingham.

"The implementation of the warehouse management system was no quick fix involving many different departments within the company. However we saw results immediately the system was implemented and winning the award is a tremendous achievement."

Added Peter MacLeod, editor of SHD Logistics, said: “I congratulate Widdop Bingham a very deserving winner."

The event celebrates excellence in the logistics industry, across eleven main categories.

Other winners on the night included John Lewis.

Below: From left to right : Pete Jones, chief financial officer, Briggs Equipment UK, sponsor of the award; Tony Pearson, IT director, Proteus; Chris Illingworth, IT and Logistics director, Widdop Bingham and Romesh Ranganathan who hosted the evening.

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Top: Angela and David Theobalds, owners of Emporium, received a big splash in the Cotswold Journal.

Above right: Red Card received some welcome coverage in The Midhurst & Petworth Observer.

Above left: Village Connect will be featuring an article on GiftsMade4u this month.

Right: The Dundee Courier did an article on Viv Stephen and Dave Blair, co-owners of The Quirky Coo, finalists in the Best Newcomer North and Scotland category.

Jo Malone's Sweet Smell Of Success

It is sure to be standing room only at the May Design Series Conference as Jo Malone MBE (right) takes to the stage on May 19 at ExCeL, London.

As part of an impressive line up of speakers within the theme of The Business of Design, Jo, who founded Jo Malone and, more recently Jo Loves, will be sharing her story of how she made it from humble beginnings to establishing a ÂŁmultimillion business.

The May Design Series will be bringing together five sectors: furniture, lighting, home decor, DX and KBB, showcasing new products and the latest trends. Visit www.maydesignseries.com

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Industry News

Bira High Street Conference Mary 'Queen of Shops' Portas Is Keynote Speaker Retail guru Mary Portas will be taking a look at the challenges independent retailers face, as well as the opportunities they can embrace, in what is likely to be one of the most popular and well attended bira High Street conferences to date, taking place at Chesford Grange in Kenilworth on May 13.

In recent years, Mary's goal has been to bring economic and community life back to high streets.

At the High Street Conference, she will be talking delegates through her vision and the steps she has taken with the government to secure Britain's high streets for the future.

“We’ll never get back the high streets of old, nor should we, but with creative re-imagination, policy change from government and a society which knows the value of their high street, I am hopeful for the high street of our future,” Mary states.

Other speakers at the conference will include Andrew McMillan, an expert in customer service following a 20 year career with John Lewis, whose motivational session will focus on the customer experience and how this will contribute to the survival of independents. Delegates will also be able Above: Mary Portas will be the keynote speaker to hear from retailers and suppliers on their strategies for the future. at the bira High Street Conference this month.

“Independent retailers have a crucial part to play in the survival of our high streets," comments incoming bira president and independent retailer Cliff Elliott. "We can no longer sit back and wait for something to happen. Embracing and implementing change, and continuing to offer a service like no other, will all help to future-proof our businesses and our high streets. We are thrilled to have such a high calibre of speakers this year - speakers who will leave our delegates inspired, motivated and excited for the future.”

There will also be an interactive ‘themed’ exhibition of information, services and products, which will provide an opportunity for delegates to speak directly with service providers and suppliers about practical ways to save money. Event host, Alexis Conran of BBC’s The Real Hustle will entertain delegates with close up insight into the world of tricks and scams.

The conference will be followed by a Gala Awards Dinner, where independent retailers and suppliers, who have done excellent work in the last year, will be recognised and honoured.

Visit www.thehighstreetconference.co.uk

Mum's The Word For Gift Indies Everyone loves their mum, with children of all ages delighted to tell and show their mothers how much they care. According to Intelligent Reach, over a quarter of Britons purchased a Mother’s Day gift, making it an increasingly significant day in the retail calendar.

Alongside gift sales this year, Mother's Day cards were definitely among the hero products for gift shops in March.

"The Mother's Day weekend was very busy for both gifts and cards," confirmed Katharine Maclaverty, director, The Dulwich Trader, Tomlinsons and Ed's in South London. "There was definitely a lot of last minute shopping on Saturday. We also ran our usual Mother's Day competition with local primary schools, and had lots of children coming in with their parents to see the portraits they had done of their mum or special person in their life, which created a good atmosphere and footfall. People definitely seemed more upbeat this year."

At Love It in Stamford and Bury St Edmunds, co-owner Amanda Oscroft said that overall, the shop also did well with gifts and cards. "Sales were pretty similar to last year but this year, we seemed to sell more gifts with card purchases, and each card sale was more mid range and not from our lower price point."

For one gift shop, cards actually performed better than gifts.

"Mother's Day held up very well for greeting cards," confirmed Annie Rockley, owner of Peppertrees in Northampton. "Five Dollar Shake's new collection with a feathered edge were a big hit, and we also did well with Johnson Press' bespoke cards which said 'Northampton's Yummy Mummy' and 'Northampton's Best Mum.’"

Christmas Shopping At Tendence Christmas 2015/Spring 2016 will be on the agenda for buyers to Tendence, which features Giving & Living sectors.

"Visitors get a unique impression of the look and feel of new products for home, furnishings and decoration," comments Sabine Scharrer, director of Tendence who has special responsibility for Living. "The show gives the retail trade an opportunity to place additional orders for the season that is just starting, and they can also place orders for 2016."

The show takes place at Messe Frankfurt from August 29-September 1.

Visit www.tendence-messefrankfurt.com

Record Profits For Portmeirion

Portmeirion Group, hit a record profit for the sixth consecutive year, with pre-tax profit rising 8.6% to £7.6 million, and revenues increasing by 5.3% from £58.3 million in 2013 to £61.4 million in 2014.

“We are delighted to be reporting another record year," enthused Dick Steele, non-executive chairman. "Our core values of innovation, targeted product development and operational excellence remain unchanged. We remain confident for the future. The outlook for 2015 is positive.”

The company has enjoyed a successful start to the year following the launch of its exclusive new Ted Baker Portmeirion ceramic range and the announcement that a new £1.5m kiln will be installed, increasing its UK manufacturing capacity by 50%.

Portmeirion Group has four brands: Portmeirion, Spode, Royal Worcester and Pimpernel.

Tiger Retail Honoured

Having successfully roared into UK retail from Denmark 10 years ago, Tiger Retail, the London and South East division of the Danish store Tiger, was recently presented with The Danish Export Association's Diploma and HRH Prince Henrik's Medal of Honour, by the Danish ambassador, Claus Grube, for its performance in the UK market.

Tiger Retail opened its first UK branch in 2005, with its second store in Hammersmith, West London, recognised as being key to the chain's rise in the UK and other European markets.

Below: Philip Bier, md of Tiger Retail UK (left), was presented with The Danish Export Association's Diploma, and HRH Prince Henrik's Medal of Honour, by the Danish ambassador Claus Grube.

Above: Among the winning portraits from The Dulwich Trader's Mother's Day competition which attracted over 500 entries.

Left: Mother's Day cards were among the best sellers for many gift shops.

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Industry News

The 'New' Pulse

Design Focused Show Reveals What's Trending Design trends will be the order of the day when Pulse opens its doors from May 10-12 at London's Olympia. Brand new design features include Secret Emporium, showcasing the newest, ground breaking East London fashion brands and the International Design Pavilion which will be highlighting over 20 new international designers from Finland and Hungary. Also new will be Emerging Talent, home to 16 of the top designers at the University of Arts London.

Two brand new product trails have been introduced for 2015: Custom Trail, to help visitors identify brands that can be customised to help them stand out on the high street, and Christmas Trail, which will highlight stand out products for the Christmas season.

Hundreds of designers who are new to the market have been handpicked by the show's curators to offer quirky new products.

In collaboration with Trend Bible, design styles that will be trending for Autumn/Winter 2015/2016 have been highlighted, to include the New Monochrome, Geo & Chevron, Tropical & Botanical, Pops of Colour and Dynamic Graphics. Micro trends include a reference to nature, hand rendered type, tactile surfaces, simple repeats and warm metals, a trend that will continue beyond 2015, with a particular emphasis for Autumn/Winter homeware products.

(See Trends: A Myriad of Metals on page 29).

In addition, the talk and workshop programme has been extended to offer retail insight across three new content streams: eCommerce, trends and business advice. These will cover PR strategy, startup advice and expert tips on using Pinterest for brand growth.

Visit www.pulse-london.com Left: Visitors at last year’s Pulse.

Christmas Trends The Focus At 'Exclusively'

With kitchen gifts a growing sector for many gift retailers, the Exclusively Housewares show is now most definitely on the radar for gifties. With a new show - Exclusively Electrical - running alongside Exclusively Housewares on June 9-10, which takes place at London's Business Design Centre, the show will be putting a huge focus on trends for Christmas.

Returning for the second consecutive year will be trend forecasting agency Scarlet Opus, who will be identifying the products that highlight what will be trending this year.

“Mid way through the year is a good time for retailers to take a fresh look at their stores, start thinking ahead to the busy Christmas sales period and get their eye in on what trends will be dominating the coming seasons,” comments show director Simon Boyd.

“We’ve asked the Scarlet Opus team to review all the products our exhibitors are putting forward for the Show Preview, and all the gift ideas they’ve come up with for our Christmas Shopping promotion, to identify those products they think are good examples of on trend items. Their selection will be highlighted by our new On Trend icon, so that our visitors can share their view.”

Among the trends already highlighted is Nature Luxe. “This will include elements with reference to historical glamour and archive designs, textures and shapes found in nature, artisanal skills and craft techniques, blonde wood tones and lace patterns and marbleised effects," says Victoria Redshaw, lead futurist, and founder of Scarlet Opus.

Looking ahead to next year, the company's hot trends tips for Spring/Summer 2016 will be focusing on an Olympic Summer, with suppliers encouraged to explore the flavours of Rio - rich red and hot pink, Amazon green Toucan yellow.

The Scarlet Opus team will also be creating a display of trend mood boards incorporating relevant product shots from the show. A Scarlet Opus trends presentation will take place on Wednesday June 10.

Adds Simon Boyd: “Many products in housewares and electricals are fashion-led, on trend, and are often a key visual element in the home. They also make great gifts." ❐ As with previous years, visitors to Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical will receive a free lunch and free refreshments at the show on both days. Visit www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

Shopping For Christmas 2015

Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical will be featuring a Christmas Offer Trail to encourage buyers to place or plan orders for Christmas while at the shows.

The trail will use Christmas tree icons along with a leaflet to guide visitors around offers and potential ‘hot’ sellers for the festive season.

Visit www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

A Hat Trick Of Awards For Stoneglow Candles

Stoneglow Candles is continuing its winning streak. Following the company's success at the Barking and Dagenham Business of the Year award in 2014, and success in the Gift of the Year awards in January as winners of the Home Fragrance category, the company was proud to accept East London Growth Business and the overall Business of the Year award at a ceremony hosted by the East London Chambers of Commerce and Docklands Business Club at the Tower Hotel.

Sponsors were HSBC. Below: Key Stoneglow staff were present at the Award ceremony. From left to right: Jade Webb, customer services manager; Louise Dooley, account development manager; Perry Simmons, owner/chairman; Hazel Simmons, head of design and product development, and Antonia Murphy account development assistant.

Yankee Sponsors Shaun The Sheep Sculptures

Tower Pier, next to the Tower of London, is currently home to Yankee Candle Europe's sponsored sculpture in the Shaun in the City London art trail, which features a flock of 50 five ft tall Shaun the Sheep sculptures decorated by celebrities and artists. The Yankee statue was created by Chilean artist Vivi Cuevas, who designed a Yeoman of the Baaa-rd Shaun. The Trail is on show in London until May 25.

A second Shaun in the City art trail will also run across Bristol, from July 6 to August 31, featuring 70 different Shaun sculptures, with Yankee sponsoring a second Shaun sculpture.

Following the end of both trails, all 120 ‘Shauns’ will be sold off at a public auction in October. The money raised from the sale of the London trail sculptures will go towards Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity, which supports sick children in hospitals throughout the UK, with funds from the Bristol sculptures benefitting The Grand Appeal, Bristol Children’s Hospital’s charity.

Melanie Stack, Yankee Candle president and general manager for Europe, Middle East and Africa, comments:“The facilities and support that the Children’s Charity helps to fund is crucial to Bristol, where Yankee Candle Europe is based. It's why we're so excited to, once again, be supporting such a fantastic and exciting initiative.”

Above: Yankee Candle's Yeoman of the Baaa-rd Shaun.

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KRINGLE CANDLE

速

Crisp, clean scents. Perfect for any home. available from

For more info please email sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570

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Industry News

PG Live

On Their Bikes For Charity

Below: Springboard at PG Live.

Dedicated To Cards Card sharps from all sectors of retail will be out in force when the seventh PG Live opens its doors at the slightly later timeline of June 2-3 at London's Business Design Centre.

There will be more major new launches from existing leading publishers than ever before at the show, while the Springboard section (for new and emerging publishers) has also been expanded to include Springboard Extra, giving gift shops and greeting card shops leading brands as well as complete newbies, enabling them to stay ahead of the competition.

"The support that has been shown for PG Live is fantastic," concurs Warren Lomax, joint show director. "We have all the major publishers exhibiting as well as the burgeoning Springboard sections, which will be showcasing an impressive array of brand new and emerging publishers."

Continues Warren: “While the array of brand new card publishers who will be making their trade show debuts at the show has never been stronger, many leading publishing names, such as Belly Button Designs, Paperlink and Paper Salad will also be marking milestones by investing in thousands of new designs."

For the second consecutive year, all Greats finalists will receive a £50 bonus voucher that can be spent against an order placed with any of the 200 plus exhibitors.

In addition, there will be a champagne reception on both days of the show for Greats finalists and winners, where they will able to see their store’s name on a 'Wall of Fame'!

As with previous years, all visitors to the show will receive a free, hot, two course lunch, free teas and coffees throughout the show and an invitation to a free drinks party on the first night, Tuesday June 2.

“With the wealth of new products, show-only offers and friendly atmosphere at PG Live, plus, of course, the free hospitality, it is great to see that so many retailers from right across the retail spectrum, to include many gift shops, have already registered to come along," enthuses Warren. Visit www.progressivegreetingslive.co.uk (See All Decked Out on pages 31-33).

Everything Is Tickety Boo

London To Utrecht Bike Road Among the charities benefitting from the forthcoming four day London to Utrecht Miffy & Friends Cycle Challenge will be The Light Fund, set up by Max Publishing's/PG&H's joint managing directors Ian Hyder (right) and Jakki Brown and like minded friends in the industry 11 years ago.

Says Ian, who will be cycling the 300 mile course himself (after some gruelling training!): "Having taken part in the London Marathon in 2014, this year, I'm thrilled to be pedalling away to raise funds for The Light Fund, a charity very close to my heart."

The event takes place from June 30 July 3. Visit www.justgiving.com/ian-hyder

Left: Tickety Boo.

Gift shop Tickety Boo has moved location from a shopping precinct to Moulsham Street in Chelmsford. "Our lease was up on our old shop so we used it as an opportunity to find a more fitting home," explains owner Alison Smith. "It's an older building with a wonderful homely feel and has already inspired many ideas – for example wallpapering the inside and lace drapes around the tables. We have even made curtains which customers want to buy! Other projects are in the pipeline too," Alison enthuses.

New UK Distributor For Kringle Candle

PG&H's advertisement manager Angie Bryant, and Steve Cox, the UK sales director for Keel Toys, will be cycling the Prudential London Surrey 100 on August 2.

Angie, who also did the race last year, will be raising funds for Lymphoma and Steve will be raising funds on behalf of World Wide Fund for Nature. The race starts from the Olympic Stadium and finishes on the Mall.

For Steve, the race will be a great personal challenge as he only took up cycling 12 months ago. Visit www.justgiving.com/Steve-Cox/

Right: Kringle Daylight.

Xystos has been appointed as the only authorised UK distributor of Kringle Candle in the UK and Ireland. The announcement was made by Mick Kittredge, son of Yankee Candle founder Michael Kittredge.

“We are pleased to partner with the team at Xystos to grow the Kringle brand in the UK and Ireland," states Mick. "Our exciting array of beautifully crafted, highly-fragrant candles has already found an enthusiastic and loyal fan base in the UK and we look forward to working together to grow the fan base with exciting new fragrance introductions and home fragrance products.”

Continues Mick: “We carefully considered several outstanding options in the UK market. This team caters to the very best gift shops and their service and track record as a distributor for home fragrance are very impressive. We’re delighted to work with Xystos and we’re confident that together we will grow the Kringle brand in this market.”

In addition to the vast assortment of fragrances, Kringle will offer a comprehensive range of candle formats. “The goal is to offer something for everyone,” says Mick. “Our premium products are ideal for home use and gifting alike."

Kringle Candle was established in 2010 by Mike Kittredge and his father, Michael Kittredge II. Michael Kitteridge founded the Yankee Candle Company in 1969. Kringle Candle is among the world’s foremost makers of intensely fragranced all white candles.

Global Opportunities For Bangkok Companies

Taking ASEAN Life+Style as its theme, Chutima Bunyapraphasara, permanent secretary for commerce, presided over the opening ceremony of BIG+BIH (Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair) which took place at BITEC, Bangna, in April.

“In addition to creating diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs at BIG+BIH, the fairs serve as the launch pads for entrepreneurs’ innovative products to visitors from both Thailand and abroad thus expanding the recognition of their brands," she told VIP delegates, which included PG&H's editor Sue Marks and other international press.

BIG+BIH April 2015 attracted over 500 Thai and international lifestyle companies where the focus was on quality and design.

Above: Chutima Bunyapraphasara, permanent secretary for commerce (centre) is shown at the opening ceremony of BIG+BIH in Bangkok.

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Industry News

The Next Generation

NEWS IN BRIEF

GA Members Day At Birmingham HQ

The Next Generation is the over-arching theme of the GA's Members Day on Wednesday June 10, with a lively panel debate taking place at the GA's HQ at Federation House in Birmingham.

Panellists to date include John Lewis' buyer for home and gift collections/Candleshop, Sara Allbright and Steve McGuire, global sales director and senior vice-president at LSA International.

“We are reaching out to the young entrepreneurs who help run the numerous successful gift supply and gift retail businesses in the UK,” explains GA chief executive Isabel Martinson. “Many of the products winning Gift of the Year awards are designed and created by the upcoming stars of home and gift. The Members’ Day is the perfect opportunity to bring these young leaders together to debate the future of our great industry and discuss what can be achieved collectively to maintain the health of this vibrant sector of the economy.

Isabel adds that it will also enable new companies to learn from those members with great experience. "They, in turn, may be able to glean some useful information too,” she points out.

A live feed will also be taking place, with those watching encouraged to join in the debate via Twitter and email. “We want this to be the start of an ongoing conversation within the industry,” continues Isabel. “Those who can’t get away from their businesses on the day will be able to access the debate and keynote speeches afterwards via a videolink.”

Keynote speakers on the day will include Daniel Sinclair Taylor, partnerships manager at Funding Circle and Richard Hill of digital marketing consultancy SEO Traffic Lab. One-to-one surgeries, discussion groups and workshops will take place after lunch. Topics include the law relating to sales agents, (Steeles Law); insurance and financial services (TH March); EPOS systems (Data Strategy Consulting); lead generation and conversion technology (Reach Local) and social media (Tamsin Fox-Davies). Gary Schaffer of United Oddsocks will host a session on selling skills. ❐ Following on from the successful Meet The Buyers days in 2014, two further Meet The Buyers events for GA members took place in March with John Lewis and Achica. ❐ The GA has announced that a fourth, year round, virtual showroom will shortly be up and running. It will run alongside Christmas, Garden and Outdoor Living and Wedding.

Above: Isabel Martinson, chief executive, the GA, will be hosting Members Day at the GA's HQ in Birmingham during June.

Left: John Lewis recently held another Meet The Buyers day for GA members.

TV Times For Wax Lyrical British manufacturer Wax Lyrical recently played host to BBC Breakfast which broadcast live from the company's factory floor several times during its April 16 programme.

The focus of the programme was British manufacturing, employment and the £1 million investment that Wax Lyrical has made this year in both its factory and the laboratory. (See £1m Investment At Wax Lyrical on page 7).

Wax Lyrical's owner Mike Armstead, and md Joanne Barber, were interviewed by business presenter Steph McGovern, along with several colleagues who were busily at work on the production line.

Right: BBC Breakfast presenter Steph McGovern shows off a personalised candle during a filmed visit to Wax Lyrical last month.

❐ Social media is playing an increasingly important role for shoppers, with over a quarter (26%) following retailers on social media, says new research by analysts Future Thinking. ❐ There is hope that retail sales, boosted by an early Easter, will continue to hold up in the run up to the summer. UK retail sales increased by 3.2% on a like for like basis in March 2015 compared to 2014, according to the recently released results.

Overall, sales were up 4.7% against 0.3% last March. ❐ After a nationwide search Maped Helix, which was an official sponsor of National Stationery Week in April, has found the oldest Oxford Maths set tin which is owned by Kaye Radford whose maths set dates back to the 1950’s. She received a £50 voucher and a huge bundle of Maped Helix stationery. ❐ Richard Joseph, co-founder and md of Joseph Joseph, was featured in a double page spread in The Times' in April where he revealed that IP battles have cost the company dear. Five years ago, the company spent more on fighting rip-offs than it did on designing new ones.

❐ Gift shop La de da! has moved from Montpellier in Cheltenham to join its sister company, La de da Living, at Unit 28 Malmesbury Road, Kingsditch Trade Park.

The shop will continue to be the exclusive Annie Sloan Chalk Paint stockist in Cheltenham and will also offer 'while you wait' personalised vintage cutlery and jewellery as well as La de da! designed giftware collections and cards.

Above: La de da's Living Mr and Mrs wedding cutlery.

❐ Argos is to open 10 new Argos digital stores within existing Sainsbury’s supermarkets by the summer. These new format stores will provide customers with a choice of over 20,000 non-grocery products, which they can either buy in store via tablets, or reserve online for easy collection within hours. ❐ As part of its celebrations to mark Smiggle's first anniversary in the UK, the Australian children's stationery giant has launched a local online store.

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29. 8 – 1. 9. 2015

Discover international new ideas for the home and gift sectors – at the industry’s most important meeting place in the second half of the year. fresh.new.ideas. info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83

Come and take a look inside: talk-abouttendence.com

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Industry News

What A Relief!

Radical Reforms For Business Rates Promised Could business rates be a thing of the past for the smallest retailers, to include independent gift shops?

To help them compete with online retailers who do not pay business rates, a statement by the Treasury's Chief Secretary, Danny Alexander, was announced prior to the Budget in mid March, hinting that property values could be dropped as the yardstick. Instead, the CBI will recommend that the small businesses should be completely exempt from paying the tax which has forced many retailers into administration since the recession.

Speaking on BBC News after Chancellor George Osborne delivered his Budget in March, bira ceo, Alan Hawkins, greeted the news that the government intends to review business rates with approval, while highlighting that, “a review is not reform.”

The association has promised to ensure that independents’ voices are heard and "bring powerful new research to the inquiry to lay bare the imbalances of the current system – and detailed, workable, plans to make it work fairly in the future."

Commenting on the business rates announcement Helen Dickinson, British Retail Consortium (BRC) director general, said the organisation welcomed the official announcement of a ‘radical’ review of the business rates system and would be looking forward to working with the government throughout the process to make sure a new system is modern, sustainable and crucially - competitive.

“It’s important then to get the review process right, so that we don’t waste this great opportunity," stated Helen. “The government is seeking the views of UK business on a whole range of questions about the future structure of the system. Therefore it's critical that it seeks an authoritative and independent analysis as the review progresses, so as to ensure the final solutions are based on objective, robust hard evidence. " (See Feedback: Rating The Review on pages 25-27 for independent gift retailers' views).

Fabulous Felt Wins GA Award

It was a tough choice for Isabel Martinson, chief executive of the GA, and fellow judge John Allan, director of Stone The Crows, when they had to choose the winner of the GA's Award for Excellence at the British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) last month, but after much deliberation, the award was presented to felt maker Kate Ramsey for her Fabulous Felt Organza Leaves range.

Ceramic artist Linda Warrick was highly commended for hand built, semi-abstract birds in porcelain.

Above: Kate Ramsey proudly shows off her GA award at the BCTF in Harrogate.

Playing With Politics

Italian Style Partner For Ambiente

Designer Paola Navone has been chosen to create the special presentation for Italy, the partner country of Ambiente 2016. “Italy and Germany are linked not only by important cultural and economic relationships," commented Detlef Braun, member of the executive board of Messe Frankfurt. "Italy is also a country renowned for outstanding design.

Therefore, we are delighted that Paola Navone, a personality of high standing on the international design scene, has agreed to create the Ambiente Partner Country presentation. " Ambiente will take place at Messe Frankfurt from February 12-16, 2016.

In the run up to the General Election, cartoonist Oliver Preston launched a range of political playing cards featuring Nigel Farage of UKIP, Alex Salmond of the ScotNats and Nathalie Bennett of the Green Party as the jokers in the pack. "They have been selling really well," Oliver told PG&H. Below: Anyone for a game of politics? Topical political playing cards by cartoonist Oliver Preston.

Right: Designer Paola Navone.

NY NOW Ups The Ante In August NY NOW, the Market for Home + Lifestyle, is getting ready to open its doors from August 15-19 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

New and returning exhibitors, along with a strong seminar programme and networking activities, will once again up the ante at the summer edition of the show which covers every aspect of home and lifestyle.

NY NOW will again will again co-locate with an expanded Artisan Resource.

Over 100,000 products will be showcased within three main collections: Home, Lifestyle and Handmade.

Colour and trend insights will be available through the show's annual Open House project, presented in collaboration with Pantone and Progressive Business Media.

A comprehensive series of seminars will address both practical and directional aspects of the home and lifestyle industry, with subjects ranging from retail operations and social media marketing to colour and design trends.

NY NOW will also be introducing a new NY NOW Market Planner which will include a matchmaking capability to help attendees find companies and resources central to their category interests.

NY NOW’s Only in New York after-hours offerings include industry networking and a show on Broadway.

Attendees from all 50 US states and more than 70 countries worldwide will be visiting the summer show which will showcasing products from 2,500 exhibitors from over 300 countries worldwide. Visit www.nynow.com Left: NY NOW's summer show will be held from August 15-19.

Enesco Displays New Competition

Weddings and babies are the two gift giving themes chosen by Enesco for the company's brand new display competition. It's anticipated that the competition, which runs until July 31, will showcase Enesco’s vast product collections for consumers, with extra incentives for participating retailers including a £400 M&S voucher (one winner per theme).

Other offers designed to support retailers throughout the competition period include a free prize draw and a gift with purchase, which have both proved popular with consumers over the years.

Members of the public are also being encouraged to engage with Enesco’s social media sites by ‘liking’ the Enesco Facebook page or visiting @EnescoLimited on Twitter.

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GIFT OF THE

GAB

Now is the time...

After almost 20 years as PG&H's erstwhile columnist, Toni Williams, who has owned Bagpuss Gallery in Ottery St Mary for almost three decades, is shutting up shop and putting his pen down.

As he looks forward to a 'bucketload' of things to keep him busy during his retirement, he takes the opportunity of this his last column to bid farewell to his many friends in the industry.

“As the Walrus was quoted as saying, “The time has come…” And so it has. I’ve never been described as being shy and retiring, but I am now going to become at least half of that. After 28 and a half years at Bagpuss, and over 50 years of one-day weekends, apart from holidays, She Who Arranges Timetables is going to have to get used to having me permanently under her feet every day. (Actually, I’ve been under her heel for years, haven’t I dear?). I’m going to become a Gentleman of Leisure (oh yeah?).

In all my time at Bagpuss, I have been privileged to meet a considerable number of very special people, both customers and members of the giftware industry. It would be invidious to single out individuals. (Knowing me, I’d be bound to miss out some who have been very kind, helpful and great friends). Together they have made my time as a 'shopkeeper' - the only word which insurance and banking proformas seem to accept as opposed to 'entrepreneur' or 'galleriste' - so enjoyable. And to all of those who might vaguely remember me (“oh, isn’t he the bearded guy married to that gorgeous Helena?”) I would like to say a very heartfelt 'thank you'.

I first saw the name Bagpuss Gallery appear in Progressive Gifts in August Right: Toni Williams and his wife Helena, who are looking forward to a long and happy retirement.

1995 in the Feedback column, when independent retailers were asked to comment on the state of the giftware market. Apparently, I pontificated and waffled well enough to be invited by the then editor to start contributing a regular article. My first offering was published under Retailer Comment in August 1996.

I obviously made my mark, because by May 1999, the column had been redubbed Gift of the Gab. Interpret that as you may! What has really surprised me has been that, over the ensuing years, I have had the considerable pleasure of visits by many gift shop proprietors, from all over the UK, coming to see what 'The Gab' looked like. To all of them, I would

like to say 'thank you' for your kind interest. It’s really fantastic to know that people have actually taken the trouble to read my efforts.

Since the middle of February, we’ve been having a 'Retirement Sale', and week after week, our takings have skyrocketed. In each of the first three weeks of the sale, takings exceeded the whole of last December’s receipts, and this past week’s takings - at the time of writing in mid March - although now diminished in comparison, are still greater than several months from 2014. One of my neighbouring shopkeepers remarked: “I see the vultures are flocking.” I actually think this was a little unkind, as disposable income in this part of the country is well below the national average, and I feel very gratified that they have demonstrated their support. Many of them have come in to buy Christmas presents for next Christmas, as repeatedly, I have heard comments that they don’t know anywhere else where they can buy similar gifts. Mind you, if my stock is so desirable, how come I’ve sold so much more at sale prices than I did in December? I don’t care. I’m getting my money back and I’ll soon achieve the aforementioned status of Gentleman Of Leisure with all that it entails. In fact, I predict that I’ll soon be looking for a part-time job in order to have a rest! I actually had one customer in the shop who had, herself, retired from private business two years ago, who told me that she and her husband were bored stiff in their retirement with nothing to do. Really? I can’t foresee that happening to us. We’ve got a bucket list as long as a Railtrack maintenance schedule! So, dear friends, this is goodbye.

Live long and prosper.”

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Ravensden Plc Ravensden Farm, Bedford Road, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 0SQ England.

Telephone +44 (0) 1933 356221 Fax + 44 (0) 1933 410108 Email office@ravensden.co.uk www.ravensdenonline.com www.ravensden.co.uk

23_David Robertson_v8_New Grid 23/04/2015 17:40 Page 23

DAVID ROBERTSON

SOUNDING OFF

Your High Street

Needs You This month, our guest columnist is David Robertson, owner of Bijou in Elgin, Scotland, who wholeheartedly agrees with Mary Portas' comment: " I don' t want to live in a Britain that doesn' t care about community. I believe that our high streets are a really important part of pulling people together in a way that a supermarket or shopping mall, however convenient, however entertaining and however slick, just never can."

"I was recently asked to speak to a group of business people - councillors, planners, consultants and, most importantly, the general public - on the future of Elgin Town Centre. I started by reading the statement above which is taken from a speech Mary Portas gave some time ago. What she does, and has done, is to give good common sense advice, and the opinion she shares above is one I have held for a long time.

When I hear of people getting excited about going to various shopping malls it leaves me cold. They are, in essence, shop by numbers - functional retailing which holds little character or uniqueness.

Most of you reading this will not operate in these environments and, with the rent and service charge, never will. Most will operate in towns as I do.

The medieval town of Elgin is home to one of my key property holdings and businesses, one where we have invested a great deal over the last five years, but the halcyon days where it was a draw for shoppers of all ages has gone.

We have a Business Improvement District which has worked diligently to try and get things kick-started, with various degrees of success, and I, for my sins, have been vice chair of the group since it started. We also have numerous other projects relating to tourism, and are also one of only three healthy high street projects in Scotland which has Blue Chip partners that include Boots and Marks & Spencer. So we have more than most.

To its credit, our local council realised that it needed to look further at the adjacent areas with prime sites for development, greenbelt park and a community centre, and pitched for a charrette, becoming one of 17 successful city centres in Scotland to get Government backed funding.

I am, and have been, a bit sceptical about these type of things. This process has been ongoing for a year or so with a team of consultants who have spoken with schoolchildren, the arts, property owners, businesses and the public. They have held forums in town halls, pubs and basically had an open door policy for anyone who wants to contribute.

I can hear the groans of “stop him, we have heard this one before�, but stay with

me. I am not telling you how to run your business. This column is about pleading with you to get involved. Maybe you already are.

I am worried that our high streets really might be dying. I am worried that they are starting to gasp for breath. In the last few weeks we have seen the figures announced for 2014 with 5,839 shops having closed and only 4,852 having opened. We are faced with a high street which is filling up with more and more betting shops, coffee shops, discount stores and, of course, charity shops, all of which would not entice me to park my car, pay the price and walk around a town.

It is our responsibility, along with the various partners I have already mentioned, to change the high street or area in which we operate. They are looking at making the high street more relevant, with more housing and a better, different retail mix. They are looking at getting traffic and movement back into city centres. They want to create places of interest - art space and places to meet and hang out are all being considered. From a retail perspective, it is all about tangible small things, such as offering your customers free WiFi. As retailers, we need to encourage and coax people back into the town centres first and then into our stores.

Elgin has a castle called Ladyhill.

My final message, my call to arms so to speak, is to ask you to put your head above the parapet of your castle and be prepared to be shot at. You are brave and bold already, you have to be as you own or run your own business, so please get involved.

Please stand up and be counted. With each success we can breathe the air back into each town centre and make them multi-purpose areas that we are all proud to use."

Top: David Robertson.

Left: Mary Portas.

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s t a t i o n e r y

g i f t

h o m e

a c c e s s o r i e s

b e a u t i f u l p r o d u c t o f t h e f i n e s t q u a l i t y, f o r t h e d e s i g n c o n s c i o u s r e t a i l e r

with caroline gardner gifts...

www.carolinegardner.com t 020 8288 9696 e katie@carolinegardner.com

25_27_v8_25/27 23/04/2015 17:45 Page 25

Feedback

Rating

Business Rates Review

The Review Following on from the government's Autumn statement at the end of last year, Chancellor George Osborne used his last Budget in March to reconfirm his commitment to carry out the most "far reaching" and "radical" review into the burdensome business rates system, kick-starting a process that will hopefully lead the way to positive changes and future growth.

So has there been a huge sigh of relief from gift independents? PG&H asked a cross-section of retailers for their views.

Not Much Impact

Below: Temptation.

"There is one critical proviso that is built into the review, which is that whatever the findings and subsequent decisions, the government has decreed that they have to be 'fiscally neutral'," points out Mike Adams, md of Temptation, which has seven outlets in the Home Counties. "This means that the revenue generated by business rates can’t go down as a result of this review. So, to be frank, I can’t see the review having a major impact on this most regressive tax, which currently penalises business to the tune of over £22bn a year. Just imagine how much business investment there would be - and how much tax generated as a result - if companies could retain that money to invest in their own business expansion."

Above: Prior to the Budget in March, a statement concerning a business rates review was announced by the Treasury's Chief Secretary, Danny Alexander.

Rates A Constant Worry "Currently, I get small business rates relief which is a help but is still not enough, although I rely on it to stay in business," says Stephanie Morrison, owner of The Gift Box in Peebles. "Even with the rates relief, I still pay £500 a month on top of rents of £1,500 a month, so if the business rates review is favourable towards small businesses then it will be very welcome. Unfortunately, the local council are not interested in whether businesses are struggling to pay the rates."

Continued Stephanie: "I previously owned two shops in Peebles, paying full business rates on both, with rates one of the main reasons I closed one of the shops down. Sometimes, I feel as though I'm subsidising other small retailers who are not paying rates at all because they're not rateable. Nevertheless, I do agree with the policy that small businesses should not pay business rates in their first year."

Above: The Gift Box, Peebles.

Feeling Uncertain "My fear is that the area in which my shop is based is expensive," says Heidi Early, owner of Earlybird Designs in Stoke Newington. "Property values have gone up massively, so I don't know how the review might affect us. If it is going to mean that our business rates will go up then I'm nervous. I don't know if we will be better off or not. Currently, business rates are a huge expense for us. We do get relief but it is still a lot of money, and we still have to pay separately for, for example, waste to be collected which is an added expense.

Following Ed Miliband's comments about business rates at the end of March, I will be very interested to see what it says in Labour's manifesto."

Right: Earlybird Designs.

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Feedback Not Keen On Change "I've had a waiver on business rates for four to five years now, as my shop is under the rate-able value, although I used to pay 50%" comments Sue Hill, owner of Derry's Den in Wallingford. "Therefore I would be very unhappy if the proposed business rates review changed that."

Below: Derry's Den, Wallingford.

Business Rates Review

Doesn't Mean A Thing "So far, all the government has announced is that there is going to be a review and that it will be 'fiscally neutral'. So until the nuts and bolts come out, it doesn't mean anything," says Miles Robinson, co-owner of House of Cards, which has seven shops in the Home Counties. "The government does a review every five years, and every time business rates go up. What we need is a root and branch review as to how the system works."

Adds Miles: "When we first opened our doors 22 years ago, rateable value was two thirds of rental value. Now, rateable value is at least rental value and, in many instances, in excess. However, over the past couple of years, we have had money back for each of our branches which has been a welcome boost, and I suspect that that might be part of the review's thinking. Nevertheless, my gut feeling is that the review won't make a massive difference. Personally, I think business rates should go down by 25%, although the government would have to find the shortfall from somewhere else."

Nationwide Changes Following Local Trials

Labour's Business Rates Promise

The Budget confirmed that the regions of Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Greater Manchester and Cheshire East would be keeping 100% of business rates paid by local shops and restaurants, in a trial that could lead to nationwide changes.

The Chancellor emphasised that, “local areas will see the full benefits of policy decisions that increase the local growth rate and business rate revenues, sharpening incentives to boost jobs and growth.”

Following the announcement that the Conservatives would carry out a radical review of business rates, Labour leader Ed Miliband confirmed that if the party is elected on May 7, it proposes to cut business rates for 1.5 million small business properties and then freeze them the following year.

Welcome News "The business rate review sounds like good news in difficult trading times," says Cass Mahon, md, Cotswold Trading in Broadway. "Currently we receive small business rate relief, but business remains difficult, so government measures to cut that still further would be very welcome."

Business Rates Defined ❐ It is estimated that business rates generate some £26bn a year for the Treasury, with the tax rising by over 16% since 2011. A bone of contention for many retailers has been that charity shops, staffed by volunteers, selling new as well as donated items, receive business rate relief of up to 100%, making it an uneven playing field on the high street. ❐ In addition, if the rateable value of a business, such as a stallholder, is £6,000 or less, business rates do not apply. ❐ In 2014, an average of 16 shops closed each day.

Above: House of Cards, Home Counties.

Left: Ed Miliband.

What The Lobbyists Said...

Below: Helen Dickinson, director general, BRC.

❐ “The current system of business rates is outmoded, clunky and regressive and it's holding back the high street," stated John Cridland, CBI director,general.

"We’ll be making the case for removing the smallest firms from paying business rates completely, linking rates to CPI (Consumer Price Index) rather than RPI (Retail Price Index) and introducing more frequent valuations. This would go a long way to achieving a more competitive business rates regime that incentivises business investment and supports the high street.” ❐ "We would like to see all SMEs, which represent roughly two thirds of properties, but account for just 6% of rental income, removed from business rates entirely," said Ion Fletcher, director of policy (finance) at the British Property Federation (BPF). ❐ “It’s important to get the review process right so that we don’t waste this great opportunity, and can guarantee that we end up with a system which is better for business, better for local government and better for the communities that retailers and other rate payers serve every day," stated Helen Dickinson, director general of the British Retail Consortium (BRC). “There are plenty of interpretations as to what 'fiscal neuturality' means and I would encourage that as broad a view as possible is taken. With cross-party political support for a fundamental review of business rates I’m confident that we can put an end to this drag on our local and national economy.” ❐ “A review is not reform," pointed out Alan Hawkins, ceo of bira. "We will bring powerful new research to the inquiry to lay bare the imbalances of the current system and detailed, workable, plans to make it work fairly in the future."

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Pulse is changing.

Exclusive products Cutting edge trends Inspirational insight Curated by experts. All year round.

Be part of the change at pulse-london.com 10–12 May 2015, Olympia London

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TRENDS: WARM METALS

A Myriad Of Metals

Warm metals are currently among the very latest trends for Autumn/Winter 2015/2016 say analysts and forecasters Trend Bible, with copper, bronze, brass and gold adding a smart, distinctive finishing touch both to interiors, jewellery and fashion accessories.

As the 'new' Pulse gets ready to reveal an exciting, fresh look at London's Olympia this month (May 1012), PG&H shines a spotlight on the Pulse exhibitors who will be showcasing the trend on their stands.

Below: Autumn Lace Jewellery, crafted using different metals and stones, includes two of the company's latest intricate necklace designs.

Above: A metallic look is the focus for Becksie's Boutique's striking bum bags, which can be found on the Secret Emporium stand.

Left: From Shine-Ink: metallic, jewellery inspired, temporary tattoos, designed in Cape Town, South Africa.

Below left: Upmarket books and desk accessories from Sloane Stationery put the focus on gold lettering.

Right: Fun, functional products from Lollipop Designs include jotters and planners which are shown to great effect on a metal noticeboard.

Below: Taking inspiration from Scandinavian design, these funky ear phones, in hot colours, have a cool metal trim.

Below: Greetings cards from Purpose & Worth etc., pay homage to the written word, featuring an eyecatching metal design.

Below: Gold has been used for the interior of the Adamlamp, designed by Hungarian designer Adam Juhasz, who will be exhibiting in International Design.

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Focus On... PG Live 2015

All Decked Out Fun, friendly, with form and function, what more could you ask for from PG Live, a show that dedicates itself solely to greeting cards? And not just the 'big boys' although all the best known publishers will, of course, be there. Good news for gift shops is that the ever expanding Springboard area will be showcasing the designs of approaching 100 start-up publishers.

With the doors opening at London's Business Design Centre on June 2-3, it's a show not to be missed for those gifts shops serious about letting their greeting cards give them a point of difference on the high street.

And being PG Live, there are bound to be some special touches and welcome surprises!

When PG&H published its much anticipated Retail Barometer in March, it was no surprise to discover that greeting cards have been growing in importance for gift shops over the past year. In fact, greeting cards were cited as one of the 'movers and shakers' for gift shops, among the fastest growing areas second only to jewellery and fashion accessories.

Publishers that cropped up time and again were Five Dollar Shake, Wendy JonesBlackett, Pigment, Really Good, Belly Button and many more, with good gift shops rating cards as an essential part of their product mix, helping to drive customer traffic and increasing average value transaction. For buyers who are constantly on the look-out for cards that will encourage customers to come back for more, PG Live will see them spoilt for choice.

Many high profile exhibitors will be exclusive to PG Live this summer, making it the only opportunity to see the 2015 ranges from, for example, Carte Blanche, Emotional Rescue, Paperlink and Gemma.

And more good news is that Springboard has an 'Extra' section this year again, offering retailers even more opportunity to find card companies who are new to the industry.

PG Live: The Lowdown

Top: PG Live will be opening its doors at London's Business Design Centre at the beginning of June.

Above: Even the meters and greeters will be in full greeting card mode, wearing dresses made from exhibitors’ cards.

❐ ❐ ❐ ❐ ❐ ❐ ❐

PG Live takes place on June 2-3 at the Business Design Centre in London.

Some 220 exhibitors will be showcasing product.

To register, visit www.progressivegreetingslive.com or phone 01635 297070.

Follow the show on Twitter@PGLiveLondon Opening times are: 9.30-6pm on June 2 and 9.30am - 4.30pm on June 3.

In addition to buyers from the UK, over 40 countries will be attending this year's show.

PG Live is celebrating its seventh year. The show first opened its doors in 2009.

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Focus On... PG Live 2015

Greeting Cards In Numbers

Now in its seventh year, regular visitors to the show include gift shop The Ark in Stoke Newington, North London. "It's a very useful show because it's solely greeting cards," states Jo Georgiou, manager of The Ark. "When you are buying for a small independent gift shop you have a lot of sectors to cover and this show really focuses your attention. We have found several small publishers that we would otherwise not have spotted. We will be going again this year and look forward to finding other new companies there." Adds Jo: "Obviously, the hospitality is welcome too, making it a very sociable and attractive show to attend."

Other regulars to PG Live each year are Jackie and Matt Shearing, directors of All Good Gifts in Battersea in South London.

Wine And Dine On Us!

Above: A relaxed way to do business.

Below left: Gift retailers and Retas finalists Matt (left) and Jackie Shearing spending their Silver Ticket (worth £50) with Keith Gillespie of Cardmix at last year’s PG Live.

Below right: A card design catches a buyer's eye.

"We've been going to the show since PG Live first started," confirms Jackie. "It's a very friendly, easy show to do and we always enjoy talking to our existing suppliers as well as finding new ones. As always, we're looking for smaller publishers so Springboard is an important sector."

At Cadeaux in Walton-on-the-Hill, owner Diane France is another gift indie who has been going to the show since it started. "It's appeal is that it's dedicated to greeting cards and the venue is lovely," she highlights. "Our objective is to find smaller publishers as well as new companies."

Over in Kent, Jenny Wilson, owner of Barley Mow in Faversham, sums up PG Live as “a really nice way to meet up with people in the industry. I have some really good greeting card agents, but it's always good to see what else is out there," says Jenny. "I go for a day, and walk the show from one end to the other. I always take a look at

❐ Ensuring that visitors to PG Live receive the friendliest and warmest of welcomes, lunch really is 'on us'! ❐ All visitors and exhibitors can enjoy a free, hot two course lunch. ❐ Teas and coffees are on the house too, with a trolley service 'doing the rounds' throughout the show, and refreshment areas ready to offer a free welcome cuppa or a cappuccino. ❐ Adding to the hospitality, visitors and exhibitors are also invited to make merry Above: Retailers socialising at the Wall of Fame drinks for finalists and winners of The Greats and The Retas. at the first night post-show drinks party, where publishers and retailers can clink glasses and enjoy networking opportunities as well as the chance to let their hair down for a few hours.

The GCA Market Report 2014 is the only fresh research on the greeting card industry, with figures gained from the sales figures of publisher members.

The 2014 report covers value and volume figures for the sales of single cards, across the main sending occasions in 2013, compared with 2012.

Findings reveals that value of the market has increased by 5.4%, with everyday cards at £1.02 billion compared to £0.96 billion in 2012, an increase of 6.1%. ❐ The average retail price (ARP) of a card is £1.44 compared with £1.34 in 2012. ❐ The value of the Christmas singles market is £130m. ❐ Mother’s Day remains the largest Spring Seasons card sending event, with a value of £50.4m and an ARP at £1.71. ❐ The UK public continues to show its romantic side with a Valentine’s Day value of £40.2m and an ARP of £1.86, the highest of all the card categories. ❐ The GCA estimates that the Christmas boxed market has a volume of 900m cards and a value of around £200m.

Springboard where I have occasionally found some quirky cards.”

With the PG Live exhibitor line-up already reading like a real who’s who of greeting card publishers - from the leading names to brand new companies - retailers have a myriad of reasons to visit the show this year. "The support that has been shown for PG Live is fantastic," concurs Warren Lomax, joint show director. "We have all the major publishers exhibiting as well as burgeoning Springboard sections which will be showcasing an impressive array of brand new and emerging publishers. It's always a real honour to be able to bring so many card suppliers and buyers together, but the real joy comes from seeing the industry working together to do business, network and exchange ideas."

Visit www.progressivegreetingslive.co.uk or phone 01635 297070.

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Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts

Mr andMrs

If you thought weddings were all about a gift for the bride and groom think again! When it comes to gifting, there's also the best man, the bridesmaids, the ushers, the bride and bridegroom's parents and heaven knows who else to say 'thank you' to, with gift suppliers delighted to oblige.

As the summer wedding season gets underway, PG&H drifted down the wedding gifts aisle.

Right: Part of the wedding gift collection from Gisela Graham.

Left: Something for everyone from Really Good's Bright Side wedding gift collection.

Below: Dartington's Glitz champagne flutes.

I

n days gone by, buying a wedding gift couldn't have been easier. Most couples put together a list of things they wanted big and small - to get them started, and then left it with a major department store such as John Lewis for friends and relatives to browse over, making it a win/win for both the giver and the receiver.

Today however, with living together the norm, wedding lists are the exception rather than the rule, with couples happy with just your presence or a cheque, leaving those guests still wanting to give a physical gift wondering what to buy, and the bride and groom themselves looking for the perfect gifts for the immediate wedding party.

"Finding unique wedding gifts can be tricky and time consuming," concurs Nicola Hall, marketing manager at Really Good/Soul.

"Wedding shoppers tend to be looking for something either classic and traditional or quirky and original something breathtakingly spectacular which embodies the momentous occasion. We’re seeing trends driven by the desire for something individual such as customised illustrations and personalised song lyrics," she explains. "We’ve also noticed a steady rise in the popularity of gifts for the entire wedding party."

Piers Croke, sales director at Gisela Graham, points out that the things that sell well for weddings are smaller signs for decorating the bride’s office, or for hen party venues, in a style that might be called 'tastefully jokey'. "Token presents for bridesmaids meanwhile, are another good area, although these are usually accompanied by money or vouchers and sweet or slightly absurd things such as our wedding music box or wobbly bride and groom," he adds.

"We see a lot of gifting outside of the traditional 'bridal list' demand for sets of

Weddings: The Lowdown ● About 70% of all brides sport the traditional diamond on the fourth finger of their left hand. ● In the English tradition, Wednesday is considered the best day to marry, although Monday is

for wealth and Tuesday is for health.

● Saturday is the unluckiest wedding day, according to English folklore, although it's the most

popular day of the week to marry!

● The groom carries the bride across the threshold to bravely protect her from evil spirits lurking below. ● June is still the most popular month for saying 'I do'.

(Source: www.theknot.com)

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glassware," confirms Richard Halliday, marketing and design director at Dartington.

"Perhaps because crystal and glass are easily engraved, and universally accepted as a good gift, we sell a great variety of items that are gifted to the best man, bridesmaids and others involved with the 'big day'. For example, vases for the bride's mother, tankards for the ushers and glamorous champagne glasses are some of the most popular choices. In addition, personalisation and adding a special message on the item has grown hugely in recent years for us and our customers."

Artist Clare Davis, who creates handmade painted glitter glassware, glitter cards and giftware under the Davis & Brown brand, emphasises the trend for handmade, with weddings no exception, and websites such as Pinterest and Instagram helping to ensure that

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Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts many of our Lolita wedding options, are ideal for this."

"Weddings should be seen by buyers as a growing market that continues through much of the year," underlines Julian Hunt, md of Lesser & Pavey. "The wedding sector of the giftware industry has grown and diversified as each couple desires to make the day different from other weddings."

He adds that there has also been a trend to return to traditional values, with

the wedding itself as unique and personal as it possibly can be.

"Our hand-painted champagne flutes are great to have at weddings although we have seen a bigger shift to wine glasses," confirms Clare. "As our product has a very loose design style, all the handmade boxes have been ticked. It has a personal touch that translates well from the giver to receiver.

“The internet is overflowing with ideas that people have not only done themselves, but who also have a keen eye for putting the right Instagram filter on to make even the worst homemade three tier wobbly cake look like it's just stepped out of the pages of Vogue!"

Clare jokes.

"If you check out the themes for weddings, personalisation is the common factor everywhere you look," concurs Gaeltag director Lorena Golfetto. "Articles and blogs advising brides-to-be are full of suggestions on Clever Ways to Personalise Your Wedding and how to make the big day unique. New and different ways to make the special day truly memorable, and above all, personal, are the key to success for giftware retailers," Lorena continues.

"The Tindra alphabet candle bags, plus

Above left: Davis & Brown’s bride and groom glitter glasses.

Above right: Widdop Bingham's Wendy Jones-Blackett wedding collection.

Left: Mr & Mrs jam jar cocktail drink holders from Lesser & Pavey.

Below: Joe Davies' contemporary Circle photo frame.

gifts not only for the happy couple but also for the bride's mother, mother of the groom and bridesmaids. "These are all areas that we have designed for," he states.

Products range from traditional champagne flutes with special messages for the couple and members of the family to Mr & Mrs Always Right items and Mr and Mrs jam jar cocktail drink holders.

(Other Lesser & Pavey wedding gift items include photo frames and books, trinket boxes and motto plaques).

"Key drivers have to be the desire for ‘his and hers’ gifts," says Sue Grant, marketing manager at Widdop Bingham, "with the most prolific the desire for the perfect photo frame, something with a considered stylish finish that's good enough to frame treasured memories of the wedding day." She says that Above right: Enesco's new alove story range.

Left: Tindra alphabet candle bags from Gaeltag.

contemporary styles in neutral palettes are set to be strong this season alongside clean, crisp glassware. "In addition, mugs, keyrings and keepsake boxes are all key lines, with a personal sentimental message. However, the staple of any wedding has to be the guest book where loved ones can share their memories of the bride and groom's special day," Sue adds.

However, David Cree, sales manager at Joe Davies, says the company is seeing trends in the more homely sentiment frames, as well as wedding related options that include the Provence sentiment collection.

"In addition, classy, understated designs are performing well on albums

and guest books, and we have also had a great reaction to our new circle Occasion frames. These are much more contemporary and very different from more traditional wedding items,” highlights David.

Enesco meanwhile, points to a continuing trend for glassware and mugs in pairs, both for the bride and groom, as well as gifts for bridesmaids and hen parties.

"Humour is often a key element," says Helen Shields, director of marketing. "Our Mr Right and Mrs Always Right products are consistently on our best sellers list, and this year, we also launched our own brand new collection, alove story."

As the wedding season gets underway, what's not to love?

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Contemporary appeal, elegant design and pure unadulterated romance — each exquisite piece in the collection is the perfect way to celebrate your love story.

Overseas Customer Services: Tel: +44 1228 404066 Fax: +44 1228 404080 email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk

we’ve got giftware all wrapped up

© 2015 Enesco Ltd.

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

British Designed Compacts

A Love Story Contemporary appeal, elegant design and pure unadulterated romance, love, whether it’s a first kiss, Valentine’s Day, a wedding, or an anniversary, is always to be celebrated and what better way is there to celebrate than with a glass of bubbly or lovely bunch of flowers? Such special occasions demand an extra special glass or vase and this alovestory collection offers the perfect choice! All glass items are finished with a gold rim and come with their own branded box packaging.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk

Charles Mallory London presents their exclusive collection of British designed powder and mirror compacts. Made of solid brass, plated in gold and exquisitely packaged, a Charles Mallory compact feels special in the hand. Each lid is host to a beautiful work of art including designs by the renowned textiler William Morris.

These engravable heirlooms make the perfect gift for bridesmaids and mothers of the bride.

Charles Mallory London Tel: 02036 370371 Email: sales@charlesmallory.com www.charlesmallory.com

Wedding Toast Traditional wedding flutes are offered by Lesser & Pavey in attractive gift packaging, with the wording ‘Mr & Mrs’ or detailed with hearts, diamante, bridegroom, bridesmaid, mother of the bride or mother of the groom.

For more contemporary couples, there are ‘Mr & Mrs’ trendy glass cocktail drinking jars, and for Mr and Mrs Right, there is a fine china mug and coaster set presented in a tin, or as individual fine china mugs. All come beautifully gift packaged.

Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk www.leonardo.co.uk

Card & Gift Ideas Gaeltag Keltika have taken delivery of a raft of new ‘card and gift’ titles from Swedish design company Tindra just in time for the Father’s Day and the wedding season. The range is an innovative product combining a simple and chic card with a gift - beautiful die cut candle bags, perfectly complementing the sentiment of each card. An elegant and original gifting solution for busy consumers. For additional information contact: Lorena Golfetto.

Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: gaeltag@btinternet.com www.lolitadesigns.co.uk/www.cowparade.eu

Sophie Conran Boards A range of wooden chopping boards, designed by cookery writer and designer Sophie Conran, in collaboration with the talented team at Bristol based T&G, are perfect for wedding gifts. New for Spring, T&G has launched a new board stand, the perfect way to display the boards in store. The collection comprises of 15 gorgeous boards, in uplifting colours and five different shapes, making an elegant, tactile collection, prefect for everyday use or a special kitchen gift. All boards are made from FSC certified natural beech.

T&G Woodware Tel: 01275 841841 www.tg-woodware.com

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing

Summer Days, Fragrant Ways This summer, smell the roses, the sweet pea and the freesias! As home fragrancing companies look to grow their share of the market by launching ever more innovative products and scents, PG&H reveals what will be fragrancing gift shops and homes over the coming months.

Floral fragrances will be bringing the outside in this summer as many home fragrancing companies recreate the scents of an English country garden.

Add to this the scents of holiday memories, and the nostalgia of a childhood spent having fun in the sun, and a carefree picture begins to emerge.

"This year, home fragrancing has a great focus on the Best of British," says Laurence Whiting, national sales manager at Price's, "and we'll be seeing lots of great British brands celebrating traditionally British fragrances. Florals, and roses in particular, are in the ascendancy, filtering through from fine fragrance. In our Signature fragrance range, for example, you can find Damson Rose, Honeysuckle Hedgerow and Elderflower Presse."

Another Made In Britain company is Wax Lyrical, based in Ulverston, Cumbria. As md Joanne Barber comments: "Spring/Summer 2015 will see the continued growth of our new collection from our best selling licensee The Royal Horticultural Society. The new range, Fragrant Garden, presents a fresh

Below left: The RHS range from Wax Lyrical.

Below right: Stoneglow's colourful Art Collection features the company's new new Lime & Mandarin fragrance.

Bottom left: Price's Signature range.

Bottom right: Three floral fragrances - sweet pea, blue jasmine and freesia from Best Kept Secrets.

Best Kept Secrets, which manufacturers products at its factory in Morpeth, Northumberland, says that seasonal fragrances are in big demand this summer with floral fragrances among the best sellers. "Our range of summer scented candles include Freesia, Blue Jasmine and Sweet Pea which have proved extremely popular this year," director Denise Edwards confirms. new contemporary look combining the illustrations from the historical archive library with striking accent colours."

Also proud to be manufacturing in the UK is Stoneglow, with the company recently moving to new premises in Romford to double its production capacity. "Customers love our Art Collection range of vignette coloured glassware, presented in bold dramatic packaging featuring real works of art," states Hazel Simmons, head of design and product development.

New this year is fresh, vibrant green glassware, fragranced with Lime & Mandarin, which received a Highly Commended at this year’s Gift of the Year awards. "The whole range features exciting colours and fragrances, which will bring impact into store and merchandise well anywhere," says Hazel.

She adds that there is also growing demand for naturally natural candles, with combination fragrances such as zesty Lime, Cardamom and Ginger. "Consumers are getting more sophisticated and are looking for greater intensity in their fragrances as well as something unique or special," she states. "In addition, the age range of fragranced gift consumers is continuing to widen with customers at both ends of the age spectrum."

Hamish Smith, director of The Country Candle Company, based in Wiltshire, highlights that the company is seeing a trend for softer water colours and subtle hues rather than bold blocks of colour, hence a Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing mid-season launch of Chelsea. "This will help drive sales, with its bright summery colour palette driven by floral scents for the months ahead.

This Summer will also see a focus on reed diffusers with promotions to help retailers maximise their sales," he adds.

Meanwhile, Di Palomo, based in Devon, believes that consumers will be looking more towards reed diffusers and room sprays this summer, rather than candles.

"Room sprays are getting more sophisticated and making a comeback into the market," confirms sales director Rob Tyler.

While many home fragrance companies have focused on English florals this year, others have opted for foodie fragrances, with Ashleigh & Burwood following up its Spring fragrances, Watermelon & Cucumber and Vine Tomato, with a mid-season launch derived from simple, nature inspired notes: Black Cherry and Lavender & Vanilla.

Meanwhile, Rosemoore has introduced Seville Orange, a juicy new fragrance with tingling notes of orange, lemon and pink grapefruit. "Its vibrant colours and fruity scent are perfect for cheering up the home with the expectation of Spring and Summer sunshine," says md Jason Tongue.

Technology too, is playing its part in the evolution and development of the home fragrance market, with Ashleigh & Burwood launching aroma scent hubs at the beginning of the year. "The product uses advanced cutting edge ultrasonic technology to deliver fragrance to the home, while offering several other benefits including ionising and humidifying the air in the home, plus mood lighting and music with some models," explains marketing manager Deborah Bettinson. "The appeal is incredibly broad as it offers so much to the consumer from one hub, and it's interactive,

allowing the consumer to control the functions with ease."

While fragrance is so obviously a key part of the home fragrancing mix, Rachel Parker, product manager at The Fragrance Lounge, believes that retailers should also consider the container in which the candle or diffuser is poured when making their selection. "Consumers are looking for products that enhance the décor of their home and can be reused once the last flicker of light has gone out. It's therefore important to get this message across to the

Retailer Know How

● "The key to a great fragrance display is clear information for the consumer. We have worked hard this year to develop point of sale which makes product selection easier than ever." Denise Edwards, director, Best Kept Secrets ● "Having full size reed diffuser testers on

hand for consumers to handle and smell also have the benefit of pleasantly scenting the store. The right POS imagery on counter cards etc., can immediately add a seasonal feel to the store while highlighting specific products and fragrances." Deborah Bettinson, marketing manager, Ashleigh & Burwood Top left: Cottage Garden from The Country Candle Company.

Top right: Apollo Acqua Portrait with music notes, from Ashleigh & Burwood.

Above: Rosemoore's fruity Seville Orange.

Above left: A room spray from Di Palomo.

Inset: Heaven Scent’s Meadow Buttercup.

Continued on page 43

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Inspired by Italy...

Made in England

Tel: 01803 612772 debbie@dipalomo.com www.dipalomo.com

NEW! CHELSEA COLLECTION Home fragrance redefined.

Made in the United Kingdom. t 01225 794920 e sales@thecountrycandlecompany.com www.thecountrycandlecompany.com The Country Candle Company 路 Aroma House Unit 10, Hercules Way 路 Bowerhill Industrial Estate Melksham SN12 6TS

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing

Retailer Know How

● "Have a diffuser refreshing the check-out and, if insurance allows, light a scented candle.

Consumers want quality, so why not show it to them?"

Simon Pykett, country manager and director, SIA. Below: All SIA fragrances - from Sweat Pea to Rose and from Fig to Cedar - are natural and mirror Mother Nature, say the company. Products come gift boxed too.

Above: Seamoss from Rosemoore.

customer," she emphasises. "We provide point of sale that encourages them to rekindle their candles once the candle’s life is over. In the Paddywax range for example, we've introduced Foundry, Provisions and Terrain this season. Each collection has been made unique by the vessels in which the candles are poured. They make a striking display both in store and in the home."

Faraway Places For those people who can't wait to go on holiday, home fragrancing companies are capturing the scents of far off destinations that revive nostalgic memories, or preview scents and smells yet to be experienced.

Among the new collection from Wax Lyrical is Fragrant Escapes, a collection of sophisticated, evocative fragrances.

"Consumers continue to be fascinated by the

Above: Paddywax's Foundry collection, distributed

by The Fragrance Lounge, encourages people to reuse the containers.

Retailer Know How

● "Lifestyling is important and can really

help boost sales. For example, adding petals around our Damson Rose diffusers, and using cloches to display the jars, can bring a bit of theatre to a shop. Retailers should also be looking to their suppliers for marketing help with great images and information to help highlight their products in-store." Laurence Whiting, national sales manager, Price's

Above: Wax Lyrical's Fragrant Excapes.

Above right: Roots Candles' Seaside Surf Collection.

Below: Ashleigh & Burwood's Seychelles' gift set, part of the company's Escapology collection.

unique cultures, foods and age old-traditions of different countries around the world," comments Wax Lyrical's md Joanne Barber.

"Inspired by some of the most memorable travel destinations, we have encapsulated their essence in this new range of candles, reed diffusers and reed diffuser refills."

Also looking to travel related fragrance is Ashleigh & Burwood. "Products that offer some form of escape from the rigours and concerns of daily life are popular now, with escapism a trend that's feeding into our market sector," says marketing manager Deborah Bettinson. "Fragrance transports the mind to another place, so taking this concept one step further, we have recently unveiled the new look Escapology range where each of the fragrances have been developed around evocative, desirable destinations."

At Rosemoore, the company highlights bright, vibrant colours for Summer and strong invigorating fragrances.

Examples include Seamoss, which has delicate tones of fresh mossy florals and sea lavender. "It creates the scent of both summer and the seaside," says Rosemoore's md Jason Tongue.

Also looking to the distinctive smells of the seaside is Roots Candles with its Seaside Surf collection. "It features rosemary, combined with the hearty florals of violet, jasmine and geranium in a cocktail that evokes the clean notes of a seaside spray and cedar and Amber musk subtleties," says Roots Candles Europe’s ceo Stephen Senior.

Continued on page 45

Retailer Know How

● "Packaging helps to create an elegant

display, another key component to a successful home fragrancing product.”

David Cree, sales manager, Joe Davies

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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速

For more info please email sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing

Retailer Know How

● "Home fragrance has never been so popular so displays should always be well stocked, themed

for the season and placed in a position where an impulse buy is irresistible. Customers should be encouraged to smell the products to make their retail experience more enjoyable, and most importantly, be knowledgeable about them. People always need guidance."

Marvin Lomax, md, Village Candle

What's New Stateside “When it comes to the biggest influencers on a consumer’s buying decisions, innovation and 'what’s new' will always be at the top of the list, which means they will also always be at the top of ours," says Mel Stack, president & general manager, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

"This Summer we have created something special: a brand new flameless fragrance innovation for the wax melt market called Scenterpiece. We wanted to develop a decorative melt warmer which suits the needs of the current day shopper, and so in a time where consumers are feeling the pinch on their personal time, we have created Scenterpiece which gives consumers quick and easy home fragrancing. The innovation also has the unique benefit of being able to instantly swap fragrances from one to another."

She says that looking ahead to the coming season, the company sees a continued need for scents which bridge the gap between Summer and Autumn, "those exotic and unusual fragrance blends which will complement their holiday season rather than bring it to a close. Out of Africa is our

new collection which will give consumers homes a colourful glow in those mid-months”.

At Xystos, general manager Tom Sykes says that Virginia Gift Brands - which produces WoodWick candles - has again managed to capture the essence of Summer with its new scents. In the core range, fragrances include Seaside Mimosa, Trilogy collection’s Beachfront Cottage, and Driftwood, one of 12 new reed diffuser scents from WoodWick Reserve which has been designed with men in mind.

Adds Tom: “However, HearthWick Flame, with its beautifully designed vessels and fragrances, has been the stand-out range in 2015. Retailers and their customers have fallen in love with this product and demand is incredible. As always, consumers are Above left: Scenterpiece, new from Yankee Candle.

Above right: Summer fragrances from Village Candle.

Below: WoodWick's Hearthwick, which is distributed in the UK by Xystos.

Below right: Old Fashioned Lemonade from Widdop Bingham's Colonial Candle range.

Packing A Punch

The home fragrancing market is continuing to grow for Joe Davies, with the company's sales manager, David Cree, highlighting that packaging is always key when it comes to selling fragranced products. "It should add value to the product and enhance its appeal," he comments. "For example, our Biarritz home fragrance collection, which consists of scented candles, diffusers and a room spray, are beautifully packaged and hit all the right retail price points. The elegant packaging gives the range a higher perceived value."

Lesser & Pavey is keeping modern interiors and lifestyles in mind with its new ranges of candles and reed diffusers. "They are comprehensive in packaging sizes and fragrances," comments md Julian Hunt. "Larger dome candles, or candles in glass jars and cup and saucer style, are presented in transparent packaging with a card base and top, finished with ribbon trim and labelling. Smaller candles are encased in glass and come in gift sets."

Above: Joe Davies' Biarritz Home Fragrance collection.

Left: Lesser & Pavey's candle ranges are complemented by home fragrance sprays and reed diffusers.

Retailer Know How ● "Themed displays always grab

consumers' attention in store and putting the products in situ bring them to life to the point that consumers can visualise the products in their own homes." Rob Tyler, sales director, Di Palomo.

demanding new and innovative products. High quality candles are a staple of the giftware market and manufacturers must be creative to grow their share of this important sector.”

Marvin Lomax, md at Village Candle, says the summer months are always conducive to bright, fresh, floral fragrances and colours. "New fragrances added into our collection this season include Scarlet Berry Tulips, Rosemary Lavender, Violet Blossom and Fields of Clover," he confirms.

Meanwhile, Widdop Bingham has recently become a distributor for Colonial Candles. "Summer fragrances often evoke a sense of nostalgia as we recall childhood summers," reflects Sue Grant, Widdop Bingham's marketing manager. "Although Summer is not the high season for candles, their role in home fragrancing becomes more important.

Old fashioned lemonade in a bright, sunny yellow, and a simple white Simple Breeze are ideal for this time of year. Containers remain simple and stylish - vessels not just for holding the wax but for creating a decorative statement of their own."

Retailer Know How

● "Keep a retail box of scented sacks by

the till point. Customers waiting to pay can’t resist picking them up, smelling them and then buying them!" Jason Tongue, md, Rosemoore Home Fragrance Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Spotlight On... Bath And Body

Top To Toe Pampering A stronger economy this year has given everyone more of a feelgood factor, with consumers feeling a tad less guilty about treating themselves.

Whether it's a luxury hand cream or body lotion, or a lovely soap that can't be found on the supermarket shelves, products that make someone feel 'special' are continuing to ring up sales for gift shops, with those that come beautifully packaged leading the way.

PG&H took a bit of down time to indulge in a few of the latest bath and body giftware treats that are finding their way onto bathroom shelves.

There's something very 'girlie' about bath and body giftware that often starts with eye catching packaging or something 'unwrapped', such as a soap, that looks good enough to eat! As many gift shops will confirm, bath and body products can often make ideal impulse gifts, with clusters of soaps and related giftware items, to include pretty nail files in a trendy design or packaging, hard to resist.

"The surge in sales of soap bars has been driven by a revival in the search for traditional handmade products across many markets," says Denise Edwards, director of Best Kept Secrets. "In the soap market, customers are keen to purchase bars because they offer significant value, but they are also considered a luxury product."

With this in mind, the company has revamped its soap range this year, with new

Top: Women enjoying a bit of 'me time'.

Above: Rose & Co.'s new range: No. 84.

Left: Best Kept Secrets new lavender and patchouli soaps.

Below: Wax Lyrical's Made In England's range of hand and body wash.

packaging and point of sale to accentuate the luxury range on offer. "We have also responded to demands for a skincare and pampering range, so alongside our traditional soap bar products we also have products specifically for those with sensitive skin as well as for those who want a real 'pamper'," explains Denise.

She highlights that this summer will see a continued growth in demand for traditional and hand-made, hand finished products.

"Soaps which have been poured, matured and logged, using natural and local ingredients whenever possible, will do very well," she predicts.

"Pampering products are always a popular choice," concurs Joanne Barber, md of Wax Lyrical. "Increasingly, home fragrance and bath and body products go hand in hand enabling consumers to create a relaxing environment at home." Suggests Joanne:

Retail Know How

● "The Spring/Summer months offer a brilliant opportunity to create theatre

in store and encourage a memorable shopping experience. Just a simple thing like moving brighter, fruitier products to the forefront of the displays can make a massive difference to how shoppers experience the space."

Caroline Rose, md of Rose & Co., and Rose & Co. Apothecary, Haworth ● “Retailers can enhance merchandising displays by adding elements of real life, props or indicators that each product will enhance the environment into which it’s placed." Amanda Pullen, marketing, PR and business development manager, Heathcote & Ivory 46

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Spotlight On... Bath And Body

"Gift retailers can make the most of this by merchandising home fragrance and bath and body products together."

Caroline Rose, md of Rose & Co. also wears a second 'hat' as owner of Rose & Co. Apothecary in Haworth. "Launching our new No. 84 range is close to my heart," she explains. "Not only is it a sumptuous modern rose that I adore, but the design helps to me tell the story of Rose & Co." Continues Caroline: "It's our heritage that makes us unique to our customers.

Everyone loves a good story, and we are all more likely to remember a product or brand if we are captivated by a

sense of the journey and passion behind it."

From a retail perspective, Caroline says that customers are always looking for something new that will catch their eye and their imagination, and regularly changes up both her window and in-store displays for seasonality. "We have got some lovely new fruity scents such as Apple, Raspberry, Juicy Blackberry and the summery Guava & Passionfruit – all of which will be out in pride of place so that customers get a waft of sunshine-evoking scent as they walk around the displays."

Of course, trusted brands, the finest ingredients and gorgeous fragrances will always lead the way, but being on trend too can help to drive sales. "Summer brings trends of cool, coloured bold prints, pretty and feminine, with fresh, clean backgrounds and illustrated floral visuals in soothing tones," says Amanda Pullen, marketing, PR & business development manager at Heathcote & Ivory.

"Consumers are looking for something light and airy that looks good in any setting," she continues. "We recently launched Lily of the Valley for Spring/Summer 2015 featuring a warm, Top left: Heathcote & Ivory's new Lily of the Valley moisturising hand lotion.

Top right: Honeysuckle & Jasmine Hydrating Body Butter and Refreshing Shower Gel in Hearts & Roses.

Above right: Beefayre's award winning Waggledance Collection.

Left: Tuscany from Di Palomo.

Suitcase Savvy

With people jetting off on holiday all year round, and weekend and midweek breaks the norm, anything that's travel-sized and able to fit into a carry on case is right on trend.

Demonstrating both form and function, the new Naked Bee Travel Kit and Mini Bee Kit from Xystos are sure to come into their own this summer, says Xystos' general manager Tom Sykes.

Even if they are only going to be used for a few days on holiday, products have to step up to the mark, and only the best ingredients will do.

“Consumers are increasingly careful about what they put on their skin, and in Naked Bee we have an easy-to-carry range of products that contain all the good stuff, none of the bad stuff,” Tom confirms.

Enabling retailers to make the most of the products in their stores, there is a free counter display for the range, which Above: The Naked Bee travel kit in includes hand and cuticle healing salve, body wash and body Orange Blossom Honey. Products range from shampoo to foot balm. lotion, as well as hand sanitiser, lip balm and soap.

soft floral scent complemented by graceful, delicate packaging. The Sanderson Dandelion Clocks body and home fragrance collection has also been extended and is right on trend for this season."

For Di Palomo, gift sets are playing an important role.

"Fragrance and pampering products are always strong contenders as gifts, especially effectively priced gifts sets which offer the optimum packaging," says sales director Rob Tyler. "For Spring and Summer, consumers will be looking for lighter, fresher fragrances so we have launched a limited edition range to give retailer something new to feature in store. The name Tuscany offers many opportunities for display ideas that will draw the consumer to the fragrance," suggests Rob.

Claremont & May has also introduced several new lines this year. "However, the biggest advance is the introduction of a new Bodycare range in eight of the fragrances from our Home Fragrance collection," says marketing co-ordinator Rob Knight. "These include body balm, deodorant, hand cream, shower gel and after shave balm."

Meanwhile at Beefayre, the company's Waggledance Collection of bath and body products was selected as the winner of the Body, Bath and Spa category at the 2015 Gift of the Year Awards. Featuring rich and luxurious products, Bex Hewetson, sales & marketing director, says that skin is left feeling "sumptuous". Some 3% of profits are donated to bee conservation projects in the UK. From a retail perspective, fragranced giftware - be it bath and body or candles and reed diffusers - often hits the senses first, before a customer has even walked through the door of a shop! Few people can resist a delicious scent, and once they've walked through the door, it's down to a beautiful display, gorgeous packaging or an impulse price to make the sale!

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Ashleigh & Burwood Ltd. 328-334 Molesey Road, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, KT12 3PD T:+44 (0)1932 267060 F: +44 (0)1932 267080 E: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

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

Mid-season Fragrance First For the first time, Ashleigh & Burwood present a mid-season launch of two all-new seasonal fragrances, designed to add a second wave of freshness to their first half launches. Black Cherry and Lavender & Vanilla for Fragrance Lamps are available in both 250ml and 500ml sizes. A supporting POS sales package includes a countercard that encourages consumers to try both fragrances, carrying the tag line 'Fine Fragrances for Your Home …from Dawn until Dusk'.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Gentleman’s Fragrances Yankee Candle, the world’s best loved candle, has created a new, distinguished candle collection specifically for the discerning gentleman.

Launching in Autumn 2015, Barber Shop is a limited edition collection of new fragrances inspired by the current trend for men’s grooming and reminiscent of a traditional barbershop. Each fragrance is a fresh and clean classic with a modern twist. Available in seductive black glass tumblers with sleek brushed metal lids, the Barber Shop collection includes the fragrances Aftershave, Chrome, Barbershop, Hair Tonic and Hot Towel.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk

Essentially Amora Ashleigh & Burwood has re-entered the world of aromatherapy with the recent launch of a range of naturally therapeutic amora essential oils, to complement the new amora Scent Hubs. Each of the seven amora essential oil blends is 100% pure and 100% natural. The 10ml bottles are presented in an attractive box with an information leaflet. Each blend combines oils which promote a specific mood:1 Relax Me, 2 Make Me Happy, 3 Deep Breath, 4 Calm Me Down, 5 Bedtime, 6 Energise Me and 7 Focus My Mind.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Stylish Scenterpiece Yankee Candle reveals Scenterpiece, the newest innovation in the wax melt market which simplifies Flameless home fragrancing into one easy process. Scenterpiece allows customers to enjoy and quickly swap out their favourite fragrances without the cooling, scraping and pouring normally associated with traditional melt warmers. The stylish wax Easy MeltCups work with the Scenterpiece Easy MeltCup Warmers. Designed to be heat-resistant so it remains cool to the touch, the new MeltCup system keeps wax contained within the MeltCup so that fragrances can be changed quickly and with ease.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk

100% Natural Wax Candles Parks, manufacturers of 100% natural wax candles, have introduced a sensational luxury 10 wick candle in a heavyweight 25cm diameter glass bowl with silver rim. This new range comprises a selection of eight of the most popular and sophisticated fragrances from their Parks Aromatherapy Collection. This is the perfect candle to have as a centrepiece in any beautiful home with a burn time of approximately 100 hours. It will sit beautifully in a hotel foyer or company reception area or make an excellent executive corporate gift. It is opulent, lavish, luxurious and superbly packaged in a luxury rigid box making it a wonderful gift to give and receive. This product can be customised to bespoke requirements.

Parks (London) Tel: 0208 830 6300 Email: Info@parkscandles.com www.parkscandles.com

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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01225 868788

email: contact@heavenscent.co.uk www.heavenscent.co.uk Facebook.com/heavenscentincense, Twitter/ heaven scent incense @SarahBellis1

sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk / www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk T: 01293 525825 Handmade in England

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

Buyers Love HearthWick

Kringle Scents Xystos, the new UK and Ireland distributor of US brand Kringle Candle, will initially launch 34 fragrances in large and medium two-wick jars, and small classic and mini classic jars. The scents - which include Cherry Blossom, Fresh Baked Bread, Warm Cotton and Apple Cider will also be available in the Daylight range and as wax melts. There will also be a car air freshener and tea light in 14 fragrances.

Kringle is looking to grow its enthusiastic and loyal fan base on this side of the Atlantic.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422

Retailers are placing repeat orders for the HearthWick range, which has been flying off the shelves. A best first-quarter seller for Xystos, its stylish vessels, stunning fragrances, different coloured waxes and unique wicks make it a firm favourite with buyers.

Twelve new scents have been added, including Baby Powder, Island Coconut, Jasmina, Dew Drops, Marionberry and Fireside.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422

Something Different The two, recently introduced WoodWick candle collections from Xystos, have captured the imagination of retailers seeking something different. The Bedroom Collection, in medium and large sizes, features Lasting Love, Quiet Bliss, Sultry Spice, Satin Sheets, Warm Slumber and Terrace Breeze, while the Macaron Collection debuts with Pistachio, Lavender, Tiramisu, Pineapple, Coconut and Berry. New scents in WoodWick’s core range are Cherry Bark, Ginger Macaron, Cedar, Seaside Mimosa and Soft Chambray, which are also available as wax melts.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422

High-End Candle Lighters Xystos has added Sienna Gold electronic candle lighters, for all parts of the home, to its portfolio. Zen Spa (pictured), which is ideal for the bathroom, has an RRP of £29.99 and is available in four colours - blue, purple, green and yellow. Says Xystos general manager Tom Sykes: “Lighting candles with matches has meant burnt fingers, dripping wax and broken matches. Our partnership with Sienna Gold puts an end to that pain and frustration.”

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422

The Naked Bee Flies!

The Naked Bee Orange Blossom Honey bath and body products from Xystos have personal care needs covered from head to toe. The Travel Kit and Mini Bee Kit have sold in well and will come into their own this summer. Naked Bee products are paraben-free and contain no propylene glycol, mineral oil, dyes, pigment, lauryl or laureth sulfate. And no animal testing is ever involved in their production. There is a free counter display for the range, which includes hand and cuticle healing salve, body wash and body lotion, as well as hand sanitiser, lip balm and soap.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422

Candle Scents For Men WoodWick Reserve Candles have been carefully based on fragrance notes which have men in mind. They feature a substantial piece of glass with stylish architectural detailing, and a front label made of stamped leather. Xystos has added new candle scents Royal and Midnight, as well as 12 reed diffuser fragrances including Driftwood, Canyon and Humidor.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk Exclusively Housewares: Stand 422 PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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scented candles natural soaps fragranced gifts Just relax and see the Seriously Scented ranges from Best Kept Secrets.

T. +44 (0)1670 512222 E. sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Best Kept Secrets, Coopies Field, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6JT, UK www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

HANDM

IN THE ADE UK

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

Fragrance Best Sellers Best Kept Secrets, the seriously scented fragrance gift specialist, has had an outstanding response to its new range of fragranced gift products, with selected products becoming best sellers since their introduction at Spring Fair and Scotland’s Trade Fair. Alan Edwards from Best Kept Secrets commented: "We had lots of interest in our new scented bags with gift bracelets at the trade shows, and this has instantly converted into orders across the country. These gifts are popular because they offer great quality impulse gifts at a great value price."

Best Kept Secrets Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Over 80 Years Experience With its official launch at PG Live in June, Classic Candle Company is a brand new company with over 80 years of experience in the candle and fine fragrance industries. Designed in England using fragrances popular in the UK and Europe, and hand crafted in all white wax in New England USA, they have created a range that will look good in any home. Available in 12 hour MiniLights, melts, three jar sizes, reed diffusers and room sprays, with more formats planned, there is a price point and product for every outlet.

Classic Candle Company Tel : +44 (0)1473 487748 Email : sales@classiccandle.com www.classiccandle.com

Just for Him

Art Collection

Leading bath and body brand Di Palomo introduces a new gift set option, just for him with Per Lui. Renowned for its bath and body ranges, Di Palomo launched a fragrance for men just last year. The success of the collection has led to additional gift set options for the perfect gift solution for men. The new gift set offers a shaving cream and a hair and body wash. The bold packaging ensures the product stands out on the shelf.

Displayed alongside the complete range, it makes an impactful instore display.

Di Palomo Tel: 01803 612772 www.dipalomo.com

Gift of the Year: Highly Commended New, fresh, vibrant green glassware is the perfect new colour introduction to this popular range for Spring, fragranced with a gorgeous citrus accord of lime, litsea cubea, grapefruit & mandarin. This zesty fragrance is calmed with herbal notes of lavender and basil, leading to a heart of orange blossom and fresh green patchouli.

Stoneglow Candles www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk Tel: 0208 595 8878 sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Sophisticated Florals Oozing style and sophistication, eight new floral scents launch in the new Chelsea Collection, all connected to Spring florals: Beautiful Blooms, Cottage Garden, English Rose, Garden Rose, Painted Garden, Spring Garden, Velvet Petals and Wild Flowers. They are available in three home fragrance options, the original tin, reed diffusers and tumbler glass jar. Each product is decorated with petals and flowers in soft hues giving a pretty English country garden look. As the Chelsea Flower Show approaches, the products, teamed with Springtime flowers and accessories, are sure to catch consumers’ imagination.

The Country Candle Company Tel: + 44(0) 1225 794920 www.thecountrycandlecompany.com

Colony Collection Expands Wax Lyrical’s best selling Colony collection has expanded for 2015 with three new fragrances: Strawberries and Cream, Jasmine and Sandalwood and Seashore. Each fragrance captures the company's best selling scent categories: fruity, floral and fresh, ensuring there is a new fragrance to suit every taste. The collection is available in a variety of product formats including candle jars, candle tins, reed diffusers and reed diffuser refills. Each is highly giftable.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461100 Email customerservice@wax-lyrical.com. www.waxlyricaltrade.com PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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design, colour and function for the home ADDIS HOUSEWARES AEROLATTE AMEFA ANNIVERSARY HOUSE APOLLO HOUSEWARES ARTHUR PRICE CHARLES BENTLEY & SON BARISTA & CO BERGHOFF WORLDWIDE BHL BLACK & BLUM BOBBLE BODUM BRABANTIA BRAMAX BURLEIGH BURTON MCCALL BWT CHARLES VIANCIN CITY LOOK IMPORTS COUNTRY MATTERS CREATIVE PRODUCTS CROWN TRENT CURVER DARTINGTON CRYSTAL DAVID MASON DESIGN DENBY BRANDS DEXAM DKB HOUSEHOLD DNC THE DRH COLLECTION DUBOST COLAS PRADEL E-CLOTH

EATON DINING ECOCOOK EDDINGTONS ELIA ETHOS EUROPASONIC FALCON PRODUCTS FISKARS FOSSEWAY TRADING GEH GILBERTS GIMI GOURMET GADGETRY GREEN PIONEER GROUPE SEB I GRUNWERG HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL HAUS HORWOOD HOMEWARES IC INNOVATIONS ICB NOSTIK ICTC IMPERIAL INTERNATIONAL JERAY JOSEPH JOSEPH JUST MUGS JVL HOMEWARE SOLUTIONS JWP KILNER KINETICO KIS KUHN RIKON LADELLE

LE CHATEAU TEXTILES LE CREUSET LEKUE MAGEFESA BY VITRINOR MAHITTI MAKE INTERNATIONAL MASON CASH, RAVENHEAD AND PRICE & KENSINGTON MASTRAD MAXWELL & WILLIAMS METALTEX MEYER N J PRODUCTS NAVIGATE NEAT IDEAS NORDIC WARE OCTOPUS PUBLISHING OXO GOOD GRIPS PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES PHA KITCHESSENTIALS POLDER HOUSEWARES POOLE POTTERY PREMIER HOUSEWARES PYREX READY STEADY COOK RKW ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS ROOT 7 ROSTI MEPAL H & L RUSSEL SABICHI HOMEWARES SALTER SCOTT BROTHERS

And don’t forget to visit Exclusively Electrical our sister show running alongside Exclusively Housewares ARIETE (JALENO) BAMIX (PROVEN PRODUCTS) BEURER DUALIT EPE INTERNATIONAL EUROPASONIC EWBANK GROUPE SEB

HOSTESS (CROSSLEE) HSCL JURA KALORIK KITCHENAID KUVINGS MAGIMIX MEYER GROUP

REDMOND RKW SMART WORLDWIDE TEAM UKI UP GLOBAL SOURCING VITALITY 4 LIFE VITAMIX WITT

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

SIMPLEHUMAN SISTEMA SMASH GLOBAL SODASTREAM SWAN T&G TAYLORS EYE WITNESS TERRAILLON THE COOKWARE COMPANY TONTARELLI TRADESTOCK TYPHOON ULSTER WEAVERS UNIKIA UP GLOBAL SOURCING WESCO WESTERN HOUSE WHAT MORE WHITEFURZE WHITFORD WILTON XYSTOS ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS ZWILLING J A HENCKELS

Run by the industry, for the industry

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

www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

55_57_59_v8_New Grid 24/04/2015 09:51 Page 55

Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts

Cooking Up A Storm

With the ‘heat’ turned up on kitchen gifts - and Exclusively Housewares taking place at London's Business Design Centre in June - PG&H took a look at the trends in the housewares-cum-gift market place to discover what is making these type of kitchen products increasingly popular with gift shops.

At an astonishingly youthful 80 years of age, the ever delightful Mary Berry has managed to re-invigorate baking in the UK. All ages are now eager to have a go at everything from Mary's Victoria jam sandwich to her cupcakes and celebration cakes, with cookery programmes across the board, to include The Great British Bake Off, Master Chef and Saturday Kitchen, encouraging people to either 'bake!' or 'cook!'.

“We have seen some really exciting developments on kitchen products," agrees Joe Davies’ commercial director Paul Hooker. "In fact, nothing demonstrates the current trend better than our Living Collection from US brand Mudpie. It takes the shabby chic genre across a combination of ceramics, silver plate spoons, forks and servers and gives everything a unique home sentiment twist. Quirky sayings are glazed into the ceramics and the spoons, knives and forks all have trendy words stamped into them.”

At Arthur Price, ceo Simon Price, reveals that the company is producing more kitchen gift items than ever before and has recently invested in additional items in the Arthur Price Kitchen range, as well as repackaging everything.

"There is a mix of trends going on at the moment and this is having a positive effect on the housewares and gifting sector," Simon states. "People always want good design and quality, but they are also looking for more practical presents. The challenge for designers is to make this pragmatism playful and enjoyable, combined with attractive design. For example, we have just launched a brand new range called Vintage, which celebrates the English tradition of teatime.

You have the design, the play having tea - and the practically all rolled into one housewares and gift package."

Of course, offering something different remains key. "It's more important than ever to create on trend products that are unique and have clear design, function and quality," points out Jenny Handley, head of marketing at T&G Woodware. "Consumers

Above: Mary Berry, Queen of Cakes.

Below left: Arthur Price's new Vintage range includes boxed cake forks.

Below right: T&G Woodware's award winning CrushGrind Optic mills.

Bottom left: Mudpie's Living Collection, available from Joe Davies.

are more astute nowadays and are demanding something different, combined with great value for money, but the product must have a clear function and use. It's therefore vital for suppliers to design and manufacture products that appeal both for their aesthetics as well as their function."

She says that 2015 is seeing the rustic 'al fresco' look grow, with vintage and retro trend still popular.

"As a result, there is definitely a move towards housewares products being bought by women for men, an example being T&G's CrushGrind Optic mills that won the 2015 Gift of the Year 2015 Kitchen & Dining category. They are a good example of a

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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FOR COLD

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RRP £14-£18.

AND HOT

Visit Green Pioneer at Exclusively Housewares Stand 426

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It’s a VAT free Father’s Day!

% 20 OFF Beer glasses Contact us for details

www.lolitadesigns.co.uk Call: +44 (0) 20 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com

VISIT US AT

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55_57_59_v8_New Grid 24/04/2015 09:51 Page 57

Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts Clare adds that products which have a distinctive style, or are unique or have a multi-function, have always been the bedrock for kitchenware items as gifts. "An example is our Savora collection which offers products that look and feel special. They are presented in gift packaging which adds to their perceived value."

Of course, tableware too, has become a big sector for lifestyle shops. "Following the increased popularity of cookery programmes, hosting a dinner party at home is still very much on trend this year," comments Phil

modern design, but the mills have a proper function in that they are able to grind not only salt and pepper but also whole dried herbs and spices allowing consumers to blend their own spice mixes for cooking."

Clare Budgen, marketing controller at Kitchen Crafts, highlights artisan-led products which look unique. "Everyone likes to receive something they think they either would not have been able to find themselves or which others are not likely to have," she comments. "We're seeing a great deal of interest from gift shops in these type of products which vary between rustic style wooden serving boards to pitchers and bottle carriers. Many of the items, while being useful and usable, can be decorative too."

Above left: Kitchen Craft's Master Class Gourmet Prep and Serve range.

Left: Pretty Butterflies by Harold Shooter for Tradestock offers a contemporary alternative across placemats, coasters, trays and worktop saver.

Below: Ted Baker Portmeirion Collection.

Bottom right: J-Me's Droplet bottle opener is a timeless design classic.

Continued page 00

At Home With Cafe Culture

With more and more people wanting a strong cup of barista style coffee, coffee machines and related products have become the norm for many households.

"Kitchens and dining rooms are used much more as a social space for dinner parties, drinking coffee with friends and general socialising with families and friends," says Katrina Lawton, marketing and public relations manager for Creative Tops, whose brands include La Cafetière. "The UK is thirsting for the coffee shop experience and the consumer has become coffee savvy, researching blends, products and methods to create the experience at home.

Sales for beans are growing, and instant coffee sales are declining, as serving barista style coffee at home is becoming just as important as afternoon tea or the dinner party."

Left: For Spring/Summer, Creative Tops' La Cafetière has introduced a collection of coffee essentials which includes stoneware embossed ceramic espresso, latte and cappuccino coffee cups with a mix and match range of products.

With Men In Mind

With men happy to spend time in the kitchen either cooking or baking, suppliers are looking to humour and quirkiness when it comes to giftware.

"There is a growing trend for men’s kitchen gifting, which is becoming increasingly popular across cooking products with a steer towards a novelty feature covering an entire range," says Ben Craddock, marketing manager at Half Moon Bay. "For example, there are now more unusual and humorous items to offer, such as aprons and oven mitts featuring iconic film and comic book characters."

Below: A quirky oven mitt from Half Moon Bay.

Atherton, Portmeirion Group's sales and marketing director. "People are becoming more adventurous in the kitchen and want to impress their guests with fantastic food served on attractive tableware. Our Ted Baker Portmeirion Collections are an example of tableware which not only looks fabulous on the table but which are also packaged in beautiful boxes."

Also doing the business for the company is Sophie Conran for Portmeirion, which now includes the new Sophie Blue collection, and Royal Worcester’s new Wrendale Designs range. From owls and peacocks to chickens and squirrels, products feature Wrendale Designs’ images on an assortment of fine bone china pieces which include egg cups, jugs, teabag rests, a breakfast set and gift boxed cutlery. "With every piece including a tag, wrap or gift box, all the items make great gifts," says Phil.

As for products that solve problems that everyone experiences in the home, particularly the kitchen, the multiaward winning Joseph Joseph continues to lead the way. "There are various trends that we have identified when it comes to creating new products," says md Richard Joseph.

Continued page 59 Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Eddingtons are delighted to offer the Epicurean brand.

Talk to us about these exciting ranges +44 (0)1488 686 572 sales@eddingtons.co.uk Barware | Childrens | Drinkware | Tabletop | Outdoor Dining

55_57_59_v8_New Grid 24/04/2015 09:52 Page 59

Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts

Exclusively Housewares/Exclusively Electrical: The Lowdown

❐ June will be a significant landmark in the history of Exclusively Housewares as it launches a new show, separately branded as Exclusively Electrical, to run alongside the long established housewares show for the first time. ❐ The shows take place on June 9-10 at the Business Design Centre in London's Islington. Tel: 0121 237 1130; email: info@exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or info@exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk.

Visit www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

Tins Win Tinware continues to be extremely popular as a kitchen gift or self-purchase, with licensed tinware in particular ringing up sales for many gift shops.

James Brierley, owner of "One is more of a focus on tools, especially Elite, says that the company's specialist tools that do an impeccable job. best stockists continue to sell They don’t necessarily have many functions, Elite's brightest and boldest products. but the function that they do have is flawless Above: Elite's Record Player tin "While 60’s and 70’s influences are still as people are very keen to have the best is from the Vintage Audio range. prevalent, fresh and modern designs are now on the tools for the job at hand. It's why we have Below left: Cockerel tea, coffee, sugar and bread containers up, possibly the next step, or appealing to a younger audience," created products like Multi-Peel, Twist from Lesser & Pavey which James comments.

Grater, Scoop&Pick and Flavouriser which come gift packaged for "While the recession is over, but not forgotten, I see retailers presentation and display. appeal to a discerning customer." embracing really strong themes and identities to make their stores Below: For budding and For gift shops looking to diversify, having experienced bakers, Half Moon stand out, offering lifestyle looks that the consumer Bay's McDougalls Flour tinware a 'cook's corner' might be just thing! says it all. can take home, led, as always, by licensed Above: Joseph Joseph's Scoop&Pick. design which brings provenance and sales. As a one stop shop for tin, we have seen increases in our contemporary and retro ranges," confirms James.

Among the gift suppliers offering not only flexibility in terms of Textile Trends purchasing, but also a collection that people can build on, is Lesser & Pavey.

Textiles are, of course, a major part of life in the kitchen, often chosen to co-ordinate with "What's really nice about our new tinware range, which features an illustration the decor, but also reflecting a person's under licence from Jennifer Rose, is that it combines so many elements of personal taste and interests. the kitchen in one range," underlines Lesser & Pavey's md Julian "Trends are becoming a lot more graphic and Hunt. "They are attractive as individual pieces, or as a full simplistic, using bold yet simple designs," says collection, with a selection of kitchenware accessories as Owen McErlain, retail manager at Ulster Weavers. well as a fine china and fabric elements in the form of "This can be seen in our new Workwear range and mugs, melamine trays and oven gloves." in our collaboration with Seasalt." He says that At Half Moon Bay, marketing manager Ben gifts the company are really seeing a demand for Craddock, says that vintage trends are still very much are those that are practical and serve a purpose, around for the home this year, combining a variety of adding colour to the home. materials, themes and colours.

"These include tea towels and aprons which "Gone are the days now feature our new plain dyed colours," he adds. when branded storage tins Below: Ulster Weavers' colourful Dotty Sheep oven mitts. were stacked away in the larders of huge stately homes in the 1900s," he comments.

"Today, consumer branded tinware is making its reemergence featuring original designs which are both on trend, colourful and practical, as is a focus on ‘make-doand-mend’ themes thanks to upcycling."

Ben adds that there is also an increasing choice at the higher end of the market with the aspirational brands increasingly extending their ranges into kitchen gifting.

International Trends: Kitchenware

Key highlights at the recent International Home and Housewares Show, held in Chicago earlier this year, included: multi-faceted surfaces, shapes and structures; ombré inspired blending of multiple hues on homewares; speckled and textured surfaces and geometric patterns on cookware and kitchen appliances.

(Source: Trend Bible) Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Simple but effective design...

...on bone china mugs and vases

JH Designpoint AWARD-WINNING AND EXCLUSIVE MUGS, VASES AND BAUBLES Designed and made in the UK

www.jhdesignpoint.net Celebrate the bicentenary of Jane Austen’s “Emma” with our collection of commemorative mugs featuring quotes from “Emma” and “Sense and Sesibility”

0141 339 4927 enquiries@jhdesignpoint.net

61_52-53/55 24/04/2015 17:10 Page 61

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

Is There A Diva In You? Wine glasses with a difference from Lesser & Pavey feature four different designs of party girls having a fun time, coloured in turquoise, pink, lilac and green. Each one comes individually gift packaged and two have slightly different shaped bowls. Each one is hand painted and all come with 3D ‘boobies’. The drinking glasses make for a fun gift and have various birthday messages - ‘Drink til he’s cute’, ‘Sip back and relax’, ‘TGIF thank God I’m fabulous’ and ‘Why limit happy hour’.

Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk www.leonardo.co.uk

Mudpie Circa Style Wine Joe Davies reports strong, repeat business for the company's new Mudpie table top collection which looks set to emulate the huge success it enjoys in America.

The design led series is unlike any other collection on the UK market, with trendy stoneware and Dolomite ceramics teamed up with rustic, silver plated cutlery stamped with humorous messages. Wine bottle stoppers and tags have been particularly popular and there are some lovely wooden frames too.

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

Arty Tea for One These eye-catching Tea for One sets are new from Joe Davies and are complemented by equally quirky Elephant and Owl teapots too. All are entirely hand painted using top quality French paints for durability and brightness and every tea pot is unique.

The series makes a great retail display and all come beautifully boxed to make a unique gift.

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

New Shaped Pan Bundts are becoming a hot property, and, as producers of the original and only Bundt Pan, Nordic Ware are excited to announce their newest Bundt shape, The Squared Bundt Pan. The company thought outside the box to create this stunning new design which highlights the best in bakeware. Made in the USA from cast aluminium with high-grade non-stick, the 70 plus shapes are easy to use and consistently produce the greatest detail. Contact: Marcus Findlay Nordicware Tel: 0121 580 8398/0121 353 8284 Email: Marcus@nordicware.co.uk www.nordicware.com Exclusively Housewares Stand No: 287

Sheep Designs Contemporary Clock Collection iSTRA has recently introduced its new C-47 model, which comprises two new contemporary clocks available with a distinctive black or white dial design. They feature a best quality hand-polished stainless steel case, along with a high-quality Quartz movement. Case diameter: 41cm.

New to the market, iSTRA offers a superb collection of contemporary stylish clocks, suitable for any room in a modern home. Futuristic, elegant and unbeatable quality throughout, there are 22 different striking new designs. iSTRA Tel: 01245 262611 Email malcolm@oldeani.com www.oldeani.com

New for 2015 is a range of mugs and coasters featuring our best selling sheep designs. Bright and colourful, with great prices, they are printed in the UK and are a perfect addition to Spring/Summer ranges. Order online at www.vanessabeetrade.co.uk or contact us for a paper catalogue.

Vanessa Bee Designs Tel: 017687 71447 Email info@vanessabeedesigns.co.uk www.vanessabeedesigns.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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The Walking Stick Specialists Walking sticks, folding canes, seat sticks and umbrellas for ladies and gentlemen

Carrie Elspeth EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER JEWELLERY H A N D M A D E I N WA L E S

Summer Collection out now!

Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ Tel 0044 (0)1460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk

Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com www.carrieelspeth.com

Aroma Holiday English Handmade Luxury Candles

TAKE A TRIP OF A LIFETIME WITH AROMA HOLIDAY HOME FRAGRANCES!

TAKE A TRIP OF A LIFETIME WITH AROMA HOLIDAY LUXURY HOME FRAGRANCES! Twelve beautiful fragrances conjure up the sights, sounds & aromas of some of the world's most colourful destinations. Recreate the atmosphere of Paris, New York, London, Rome, Istanbul without leaving the comfort of your own armchair. Let the fragrances transport you to Tokyo, Valencia, Rio, Hawaii and Sydney. Relax, shut your eyes and you're in exotic spicy Agra or seductive Dubai with the help of Aroma Holiday Special Edition Collection's in glistening White & Gold!

Aroma Holiday is the new luxury scented home fragrance brand which captures the

spirit of the world's most enthralling places with a range of stunning, evocative fragrances. Handmade in Yorkshire, designed

by Mark Jordan, the range of expertly created products make perfect gifts for travellers & would-be travellers alike.

Aroma Holiday products are beautifully packaged and available in the Twelve luxury destination scents, with a range of sizes, including 185g Single Travel Tins, 245g Coloured Glass Votives, 2 Wick 750g, 100ml Diffusers and chic Candle & Diffuser Gift sets.

Please visit www.aromaholiday.com or email sales@aromaholiday.com Trade inquiries tel Mark 07882 610705

Call 07882610705 email sales@aromaholiday.com www.aromaholiday.com

63_52-53/55 24/04/2015 17:15 Page 63

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

Birthdays Just Got Better Two completely new designs for 18th and 21st Birthdays have just been launched by Lolita. The glasses have been specially designed for the UK and follow the attractive style of the latest range of highly successful Lolita birthday age glasses - 30th, 40th, and 50th. Fun, original and presented in signature Lolita gift boxes, these glasses will provide a lasting reminder years after the special events! Gaeltag Keltika will be showing Lolita at Harrogate Home & Gift DP 4-5. For additional information contact: Lorena Golfetto Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: gaeltag@btinternet.com www.lolitadesigns.co.uk/www.cowparade.eu

Summer Collection Carrie Elspeth’s exclusive Summer Collection is a feast of delicious bright colours and cool pastels. Keeping pace with current trends, these gorgeous designs maintain a classical versatility. Look out for the bubbly Happy range and luscious glow of Jelly Rocks! Carrie’s jewellery is still beautifully handmade in Wales: boost your sales with this stunning Made in the UK collection!

Carrie Elspeth Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com www.carrieelspeth.com

Quirky, Unique Gifts

Build & Draw STIX is Shachihata Europe’s sensational new product! It's the 'Number 1' pen in Australia, and we are delighted to be launching it here in the UK, and across Europe, at the Stationery Show. With the benefit of the associated connectors, characters and building ability, STIX is designed to inspire and excite children to ‘build & draw’ in their day to day activities.

Shachihata Europe Tel: 01928 790 844 Email: sales@shachihata.eu www.artline-xstamper.com

Everythink In Ink’s quirky and unique illustrative style is expanding their greeting card designs into the gift market. The company now offers coasters, magnets, mugs, notebooks, prints and framed prints. Coming soon are wooden jigsaws, fabric products: rabbit stuffed ‘toys’; aprons; tea-towels; silk scarves and more. Artist Sally Bun Bun has teamed up with Don Badger from Badger Designs and between them the sky’s the limit!

Everythink In Ink Tel: 01692 538637 Email: info@everythinkinink.com www.everythinkInInk.com PG LIVE: Stand 120

Exciting New Elements Peace of Mind are ready to wow you this summer with well thought out designs, exciting new elements, the introduction of some stylish point of sale display and a scarf collection to be proud of.

There really has never been a better time to buy PoM. Contact Hayley Smith 01225 777749 www.pom925.com sales@pom925.com PULSE: Stand E68

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.

Pastel Blooms Spring has most certainly sprung at Paper Whites with the launch of their new Pastel Blooms collection. This new collection features the most beautiful of blooms which are arranged in unique, pastel coloured vessels. From sugar pinks to pistachio greens and Caledonian blue, this range is bursting with a Spring energy to brighten up any home.

Paper Whites Tel: 01592 654222 Email: info@selbraehouse.co.uk www.paper-whites.co.uk

Melting Hearts The launch of Fusion Melts in the first quarter of 2015 has been an instant success for Best Kept Secrets. Denise Edwards from the Northumberland based scented gifts specialist commented: "We worked hard to develop our heart shaped wax melt range, so that we had the perfect combination of exceptional scent, and a wonderfully bold collection of colours. The response has been great from our customers, and our new point of sale and introductory packs are a great way of introducing the product to any retail environment."

Best Kept Secrets Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Roses Are Red A stunning new addition to Stoneglow’s gorgeous Nature’s Gift range is a classic red rose stem immersed into the fragrant bouquet of deep Red Rose petals and rich geranium blooms, with soft powdery notes and a sultry musk base. Other stunning designs include, Ocean, English Country Garden and Pink Pepper Flowers.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Busy Bee Busy Bee Candles offers an extensive range of home fragrance products expertly crafted to suit every budget, décor and setting. This includes two fabulous ranges of scented candles, wax tart melts, their bestselling super high strength Magik Beanz wax melt product as well as natural bath and and body ranges and more. Busy Bee Candles range offer a mind blowing catalogue of over 200 fragrances. Every Busy Bee Candles product is handmade in the UK using natural ingredients. Enquire today to become a stockist of this fast growingUK brand.

Busy Bee Candles T: +44 (0)1550 750 419 M: +44 (0)7511 642 733 E: info@busybeecandles.co.uk W: www.busybeecandles.co.uk

Light Up Your Imagination Bang on trend, these carnival LED battery operated wall lights from La de da Living are a 'must have' for this season. Each light arrives gift boxed and has an RRP of just £20 for the letters and £25 for the symbols. With the first shipment already sold out on this incredible collection, make sure you don't miss out. Secure your July delivery with us at Pulse 2015!

La de da Living Tel: 01242 250653 Email: enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk www.ladedaliving.co.uk Pulse: Stand: H52

Animal Tea Light Holders Trendle Products are glad to be the distributors of Klima miniature porcelain animals. Amongst their vast range are beautifully hand painted tea light holders. These complement their many animal designs which can be viewed on the website.

Trendle Products Tel: 01984 618311 Email: mail@trendle.co.uk www.trendle-co.com PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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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.

Annie Rockley, owner, Peppertrees, Northampton A medium sized gift shop on a secondary site CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

East of India: hanging ornaments; Paper White: country style floral arrangements

A core product. We sell them every day.

Fresh and Spring like, they did well for Mother's Day.

Home Fragrancing

KMI Brands: Ted Baker Candles: Residence;

Xystos: WoodWick's Hearthwick

Following on from our success with Wild and Wolf's Ted Baker ranges we added this one and it's been really popular.

They're selling so well we can't keep them in stock!

Jewellery

JOMA Jewellery: carded bracelets

Beautiful packaging and good price points. These carded bracelets tick all the boxes.

Fashion Accessories

Pure White: scarves

Great designs and a great mark up opportunity.

Greeting Cards

Five Dollar Shake

The new collection with a feathered edge is delightful and is flying off the shelf.

Giftwrap

Belly Button Designs

Good quality metallic designs with universal appeal.

Other Hot Hits

That Company Called IF: Alphabooks

We had to re-order within a week!

Above: Peppertrees, Northampton.

Susan and John Kerr, owners, Harvey Willis, Kingdom Shopping Centre, Glenrothes A medium/large shop within a shopping mall CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Straits Trading: across the board; Robert Harrop Designs: Edge sculptures

Good price points, plenty of choice.

Beautiful pieces that make a statement in the home.

Home Fragrancing

Stoneglow: Art Collection:

These are handmade in the UK and we can't get enough of them!

Customers love to match the fragrances of the candles with the reeds.

Yankee Candle: decorative reeds

Jewellery

Above: Harvey Willis, Glenrothes.

JOMA Jewellery: across the board; Carrie Elspeth: across the board

Beautiful pieces with delightful packaging.

Fashion Accessories

Ness: bags and purses; Miss Shorthair: scarves

Tartan sells well in Scotland.

Good price and lovely colours.

Greeting Cards

Noel Tatt

A huge selection and at a good price.

Giftwrap

Belly Button Designs

Good quality; stylish wedding giftwrap.

Other Hot Hits

Really Good: Bright Side tins

The Man Tin was especially popular at Christmas as we filled it with sweets!

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PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

Always popular, well made jewellery at a good price.

66-67_72-73 24/04/2015 10:00 Page 67

Nicolette Byrne, owner, Number 45, Newport A small gift shop in a market town at the end of the main high street CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Parlane International: across the board; Jo Downs: art glass

Good quality products across all sectors.

Beautiful, tactile, English made fused glass coasters, bowls and earring dishes.

Home Fragrancing

Lily Flame: candles/reed diffusers;

Bright, eye-catching packaging and strong scents. Fairy Dust and Blush outshine all others followed by Daisy Dip. Good price point. The fizzers appeal to a younger customer.

Bath, Bubble & Beyond: bath fizzers Jewellery

Blaze: necklaces/bracelets;

JOMA Jewellery: A Little range.

Good mix of natural stone and shell combinations with strong colours that are very tactile. You have to try the necklaces on!

The A Little range continues to be a very strong line that appeals across the board, with nice sentiments and well presented packaging.

Fashion Accessories

Orla Kiely: bags and purses; Cath Kidston: across the board

Stylish designer bags and purses in bright designs. Very retro and on trend.

Our customers continue to want the latest season's designs.

Greeting Cards

Wendy Jones-Blackett: Quicksilver

We have stocked this range since we opened six years ago and it continues to be our best seller. Good price point with fun, bright designs.

Other Hot Hits

Jellycat: soft toys

Cute, cute, cute!

Above: Number 45, Newport.

Heather and Annette Heath-Coleman, owners, Acorn Gifts, Axminster A medium sized gift shop on a secondary site CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Container Group Buying (CGB): photo frames;

Perfect gifts at good prices. We sold lots of double heart wooden frames for Mother's Day. Manufactured in the UK, many of the cushions have beautiful images of animals.

Evans Lichfield: cushions

Home Fragrancing

Marmalade of London: candles in tins; Fikkerts: toiletries

Stylishly presented. The scents are particularly scrumptious!

Above: Acorn, Axminster.

These sell well for us, especially the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew ranges, made from natural ingredients.

Jewellery

Mollie, Wren & Mi: charms

Customers find their cute, often quirky charms have a meaning to the intended recipient. Affordably priced and non-allergenic fixings.

Fashion Accessories

F&J Collection: scarves;

A lovely selection of warmer scarves in winter and animal and floral prints all year round. An easy gift to post.

The 'pair with a spare' concept for the children's sizes stimulates conversation once the bright colours have caught the eye.

Solmate: recycled cotton socks Greeting Cards

The Little Dog

We have just re-stocked these cards after several years and they are leaping off the shelves.

Giftwrap

Pomegranate: designer rollwraps

Lovely arty, quirky designs.

Other Hot Hits

Petit Jour: licensed;

The melamine licensed ranges are safe and colourful, with Peter Rabbit an enduring favourite.

Lovely licensed soft toys, with Guess How Much I Love You and The Very Hungry Caterpillar still proving popular.

Rainbow Designs: licensed plush

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Best Sellers

EDGE SCULPTURE T: 01952 884804 E: sales@edgesculpture.com W: www.edgesculpture.com

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Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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!

WENDY JONES-BLACKETT T: 0113 2888468 E: info@wendyjonesblackett.co.uk W: wendyjonesblackett.co.uk

PAPER WHITES T: 01592 654222 E: info@selbraehouse.co.uk W: www.paper-whites.co.uk

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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!

CARRIE ELSPETH T: 01446 771271 E: sales@carrieelspeth.com W: www.carrieelspeth.com

FIVE DOLLAR SHAKE T: +44 (0)1424 434602 E: Sales@fivedollarshake.com W: www.fivedollarshake.com

PARLANE INTERNATIONAL LTD T: 01451 812700 E: welcome@parlaneinternational.co.uk W: www.parlaneinternational.co.uk

LILY-FLAME T: 01963 240 463 E: info@lily-flame.co.uk W: www.lily-flame.co.uk

XYSTOS T: 0191 499 1570 E: sales@xystos.co.uk W: xystostrade.co.uk

STONEGLOW T: 0208 595 8878 E: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk W: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

POMEGRANATE EUROPE LTD T: 01926 430111 E: sales@pomeurope.co.uk W: www.pomegranate.com

THAT CO CALLED IF T: 01751 475757 E: new@thatcompanycalledif.com W: www.thatcompanycalledif.com

REALLY GOOD CARD CO T: 01235 537888 E: ello@reallygood.uk.com W: www.reallygood.uk.com Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED BESPOKE

GIFT IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS

Premium solution without a premium price

Premium

Manufacturer & distributor at your door.

Your one stop shop for bespoke photo frames.

Wood, plastic, metal & glass frames.

Why is Connect a Premium retail system?

It’s fresh software that’s simple to use, amazing functionality and surprisingly low prices.

Supported by warm friendly people to help you as your retail and eCommerce business grows.

Why choose anyone else?

T: 01908976443 E: sales@homsquare.co.uk www.homsquare.co.uk

business “I don’t know how I ran my” ct! nne Co t hou bef ore, wit Geoffrey Harris

COUNTER ROLLS

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

TRADE ASSOCIATION

is at Geoffrey Harr

Stacey - Intelligent Retail’er since 2009

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.

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

SALES CAREER WITH A DIFFERENCE BASED IN CARDIFF

GIFTS & GREETINGS

It costs as little as £250 per annum to advertise in the Product Directory.

Contact Angie Bryant on 01993 212 994 for further information.

We are a long established, family orientated company who are looking for a self motivated, ambitious, person with strong Sales and Marketing abilities, preferably in the Gift Industry, who has a desire for something different to the normal, ‘run of the mill’ job.

Your primary responsibilities would be to service existing Retail and Internet Based House Accounts and to source and develop new business within these sectors.

You would be involved in all other aspects of Sales and Marketing including design and selection of new product ranges, catalogue design and layout, design and set up of exhibition show stands, mail outs, advertising and promotions and assisting in the development of our own website.

DISPLAY/SHOPFITTING

You would be based at our office in Cardiff when not attending exhibitions or making sales visits.

Basic Requirements:-

• Full current driving licence • Good computer skills • English speaking and numerate • Sales & Marketing Experience • Smart appearance • Living in or near Cardiff • Physically able to build and dismantle show stand • Availability to be away from home for 30 nights + p.a.

• Current Passport

Apply in writing with a copy of your CV to: Bill Caddick Mele & Co. Sanatorium Road, Cardiff, CF11 8PN. ALTERNATIVELY CALL ON OUR STAND AT SPRING INT FAIR NEC FEB 1st - 5th HALL 5 K23 70

71_v8_New Grid 24/04/2015 10:04 Page 71

On The Road Anna Bedford, who works in a team of three with Neil Bedford and Amanda Morris, has been a gift agent for the past 14 years covering Wales, Wiltshire, North Somerset, Gloucester, Hereford and Oxford. The agency's current principals are Di Palomo, Gardman and Pots of Distinction.

With just a few days to go to the General Election, Anna says it's the weather, rather than the politicians, that will have the greatest impact on sales over the coming months.

Looking back over the first four months of the year, Anna says that although she's working with fewer accounts and principals, she is still achieving growth thanks to higher sales. "The drop in fuel prices has also helped us as a business, but regardless of expense, I have always called on my customers regularly, driving over 40,000 miles a year."

Nevertheless, as she points out, while higher petrol prices encouraged more people to shop locally, lower petrol prices saw higher levels of day trippers out in the Spring, increasing footfall at destination stores.

"2015 has been positive so far, with garden centres a weather related, seasonal business," she states. "This year there's been quality footfall. People seem to have more available income, but

they are also very discerning and are looking for quality gifts. Consumers don't want to buy 'just' a hand cream. They want to have an understanding about the quality of the brand, know that it's made in the UK and what it constitutes."

Reflecting on the three Spring events so far - Valentine's Day, Anna Bedford.

Mother's Day and Easter - Anna confirms that where special promotions and displays were used, the results paid off. "The most important aspect for Spring sales was to make sure that gift departments were ready, looking well stocked and beautiful after Christmas, with plenty of new lines."

With Spring done and dusted, her thoughts have turned to Christmas 2015. "I'm currently finishing off selling in lines for Christmas 2015, with Christmas 2014 creating a demand for fragrance gifts sets this year," she confirms.

With the General Election looming, does she think that the uncertainly will impact on retail? "For garden centres, it's the weather that is King, not the Election," she highlights. "Although reduced business rates and more investment in high streets would be welcome."

Last Word Louise Wallace is the show director of the 'new Pulse', organised by Clarion Events, which takes place from May 10-12 at London' Olympia. She joined the company in 2014 having previously worked in the renewable energy sector. ❐ Three words that best describe you? "Stubborn, determined and adventurous." ❐ A quirky fact that we don’t know about you? "I was once in a Hollywood film." ❐ The best advice you have ever been given? "Never think you know it all. There is always something new to learn." ❐ The best advice that you would give to someone else?

"Hard work and determination will get you everywhere." ❐ What do you love most about your job? "There is no greater satisfaction in seeing everything you have worked hard to deliver come together in an exciting and intense three days. I have been given the opportunity to put my own stamp on Pulse to make it even better." ❐ Your favourite TV programme? "I love drama series and am currently watching Fortitude, but I was a big fan of The Killing, Breaking Bad and The Wire." ❐ Your favourite film? "I love films! The greatest films would have to be Casino, The Departed and Little Miss Sunshine." ❐ The book that you’re currently reading? "Becoming Steve Jobs."

Anna Bedford

Louise Wallace

❐ Your favourite holiday or place to visit? "I lived in China for a couple of years so these are my most memorable holidays." ❐ How do you begin your day? "As soon Louise Wallace. as I am up I am checking my emails and planning the day ahead. I always make sure I have breakfast." ❐ What time do you finish and how do you usually end your day? "I often work late. It's quiet in the office and you have more thinking time. After that, my evenings vary between going to the gym, meeting friends or cooking a nice meal. I love cooking and I find it a great way to relax." ❐ How important is being 'on trend' to you? "I particularly love clothes, accessories and make-up and enjoy reading about the latest trends. Working on Pulse is like working in the most amazing store as I get to see many of these beautiful products before anyone else." ❐ What is the best gift you have ever received? "One of the loveliest gifts I have been given was an illustrated poem written about me by my university friends. I was very touched as it was so personal and would be something I will keep forever." ❐ What was the best gift you have ever given to someone else?

"I organised a surprise party for my brother’s 30th birthday." ❐ Which one item would you take to a desert island?

"Chocolate. I can’t live without the stuff."

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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