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SUMMER 2025

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MAX PUBLISHING THE HOME OF MARKET LEADING TRADE MAGAZINES March/April 2013

S

ummer is upon us and with Glastonbury already over, having been a huge success, the months ahead hold a wide range of festivals and events, for which consumers will be donning their finest dress up. The growing popularity of concert tours, festivals – both national and local - and family events offer a strong sales opportunity for party retailers.

Key dress up and costume suppliers share the latest trends emerging in the festival sector, as well as what new products are available later in this issue.

The warmer months also bring the usual surge in the planning of nuptials and 2025 is bringing in some new themes, including colourful décor and outfits, as well as the usual hen and stag do accessories. Find out more about what’s hitting the market for summer weddings later in the magazine.

While the cost of living remains high, many consumers are using the summer months to plan parties in the garden, cutting the cost of venue hire and bar bills for celebrations. Party suppliers have responded with some striking summer themed ranges to ensure the events still have the wow factor, regardless of where they are hosted.

As we cross the halfway point of the year, we also chatted to some of the industry finest independent retailers

to find out from the front line how 2025 has gone so far. We also asked about their expectations for the rest of the year, including the all-important Halloween and Christmas seasons.

While there’s no denying things are still tough throughout the party industry, with tariffs disrupting supply and retail bills soaring, NABAS saw a huge turnout at its Party Industry Event. Read co-chairs Claire and Victoria’s column to find out about the importance of community and support in the industry in this issue.

Meanwhile, the National Costume Association’s Ed Avis talks in his regular column about how indies stateside are navigating the impact of tariffs and offering tips on how to excel this Halloween.

Next time you read this column, we will be in full fright mode ahead of Halloween. Do keep in touch in the meantime with your news, views and launches. We love hearing from you – katierm@max-publishing.co.uk | robw@max-publishing.co.uk.

THE HOME OF EXHIBITIONS

THE HOME OF MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

EDITOR

@Prog_Party_Eu www.partyworldwide.net

MEET THE TEAM

editor KATIE ROBERTS-MASON katierm@max-publishing.co.uk

publishing director ROB WILLIS

robw@max-publishing.co.uk

Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP • T: 020 7700 6740 www.max-publishing.co.uk • hello@max-publishing.co.uk SUMMERL 2025 PROGRESSIVE PARTY EUROPE

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WHAT’S

INSIDE 06

News: What’s

been happening in the world of party.

15

Letter from America: Ed

Avis finds out how US retailers are navigating the impact of tariffs.

19

Aspects of association:

NABAS reflects on its Party Industry Event and the importance of community.

22

20

Feedback:

Indies share how things really are on the front line.

26

31

22

Festivals: The latest trends heading to the big festivals, concerts and events this summer.

26

Outdoor parties: The

garden is where it’s at for summer 2025.

31

Weddings:

What’s new in the land of ‘I do’.

35

Executive profile: BAPIA’s

John Bowler chats about social media, community and the value of the industry.

Copyright © 2025. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of publication, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or ommissions, 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.

ISSN 2058 797X

If you’re a party supplier and not included in these pages – how will you increase sales? Progressive Party magazine is sent to buyers in almost every territory around the world – don’t miss out on your opportunity for growth.

Contact Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk SUMMER 2025 PROGRESSIVE PARTY EUROPE

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PARTY

SUMMER 2025

TOP STORY

Rubies to partner with licensors and retailers on upcoming promotions

Chaks unveils Wednesday party and costume range Chaks is celebrating the long-awaited season two of Wednesday with a new collection of party goods and costumes.

To welcome the highlyanticipated release of season two of Netflix show Wednesday, Chaks has put together a complete range of costumes, wigs and accessories inspired by the gothic atmosphere of Nevermore Academy.

Consumers can now immerse themselves in the world of Wednesday Addams with the frightful new collection.

For a birthday that's out of the ordinary, discover the party goods range too, featuring tableware and decorations with a dark and original look. The atmosphere is guaranteed from the plates to the tablecloth.

Designed for fans of all ages, costumes include the Wednesday Prom night black dress, the bestseller, now available now in size 164cm, featuring a dress and belt in three sizes for children and five sizes for adults. The male school uniform in black and violet features jacket, breastplate with tie and trousers in

Above, left and below: Chaks is offering a wide range of costumes, accessories and partyware ahead of the launch of season 2 of Wednesday.

two sizes for children and three sizes for adult.

The Morticia dress comes in four adult sizes, while the Gomez costume features a jacket with waistcoat, shirt breastplate with tie, trousers and a tie clip in three adult sizes.

Adult accessories include the Morticia wig and Gomez wig, both in one adult size and The Thing latex hand which clips to the shoulder.

Under partyware, there are two designs of plastic free plates – Wednesday playing the cello in 18cm diameter and Wednesday with crossed arms in 23cm diameter. Plastic free cups feature a dancing Wednesday, while the cardboard gift bags also feature the star. Rooms can be decorated with the cardboard Happy Birthday garland and the imitation cotton table runner. There is also a shaped 89.5cm Wednesday foil balloon and a generic round 43cm diameter Wednesday balloon to complete the offering.

Rubies is curating ‘better than ever before’ offers for trade customers including monthly promotional deals focusing on brands and characters pertinent to the season.

The company is also looking to Above and below: Rubies’ partner with licensors Superman promotion saw and retailers of all the company instal Daily sizes on upcoming Planet newsstands in activations. central train stations.

Recently, the Superman promotion Rubies led in partnership with Warner Brothers Discovery saw a multi-channel marketing campaign take flight across London and the web.

From Daily Planet newsstands in central train stations driving consumers to their retail partner, to the entire cast of Love Island wearing its Superman costumes for the duration of an entire episode in a ‘challenge’, Rubies has shown that prioritising its retailers and driving to their selling platform is its number one priority when it comes to marketing at any level.

Smiffys signs Dragon Ball Z Smiffys is stepping into the world of anime with a new addition to its licensed portfolio, Dragon Ball Z. In collaboration with Toei Animation Europe and Reemsborko, Smiffys will launch a Dragon Ball Z costume collection later this year.

Originally aired in 1989, the action-packed saga has remained a staple of pop culture and its recent resurgence highlights the enduring appeal of legacy anime franchises. As Japanese anime continues to influence Western entertainment markets, the Dragon Ball Z costume range is set to be a hit with cosplayers and collectors alike.

The debut range will focus on the iconic main

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character Goku, with his signature orange and blue jumpsuit and unmistakable black spiked hair. With the appeal of Dragon Ball Z spanning generations, the costumes will be available for both children and adults.

“The Dragon Ball Z brand is legendary and we’re excited to welcome Goku and friends to the Smiffys portfolio,” commented Dominique Peckett, director at Smiffys. “The anime characters translate brilliantly into costume, making this a perfect collaboration between our two brands.”

Smiffys Dragon Ball Z costume collection is available to order now in the UK and Ireland.

Above: Smiffys’ Dragon Ball Z range will feature children’s and adults’ costumes.

For the latest news visit PartyWorldwide.net

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PARTY NEWS

TOP STORY

CAP Expo returns to Telford International Centre in 2026

allowing attendees to curate their schedules, engage with visitors, speakers and exhibitors before the doors open.

BAPIA is also offering exclusive manufacturer invites for national buyers and expanded interactive features throughout. The CAP Expo Party will also return.

“The energy at CAP Expo is truly unmatched. It’s where meaningful business happens,” said John Bowler, ceo of BAPIA. “Whether you’re a small, independent business or part of a larger retail group, if you’re serious about growth in the celebration industry, this is where you need to be. It’s about discovering what’s next and taking your business to the next level.”

Exhibitor stands are now open for booking. Businesses looking to connect with a highly targeted and engaged audience are encouraged to act early.

For exhibitor enquiries, contact Jacob Megram at jacob@bapiaonline.com.

After a successful 2025 event, CAP Expo, the UK’s only dedicated trade show for the celebration and party industry, will return to Telford International Centre on 22–23 March 2026.

CAP Expo 2026 is set to be bigger, better and more diverse than this years show.

Visitor feedback from the 2025 show has led to the inclusion of broader product categories, including dress-up and costume, soft play and children’s installations, dried and silk flowers and extended gifting and greetings.

Several leading brands are already confirmed for 2026, including Kalisan, Unique Party, BAPIA, Ecobion, ABC Party, Gemar, BOC, Bubblegum Balloons Direct, Balloons4U, Tuftex, Emporium TwentyTwo, NABAS, Hootyballoo, UK Helium Supplies and Sempertex.

Left: Cap Expo will return bigger and better for the 2026 show.

With more exhibitors still to be announced, the show floor is shaping up to be a comprehensive showcase of the party and celebration sector.

NABAS unveils new branding NABAS, the National Association for Balloon Artists and Suppliers, has unveiled its new branding.

The new logo, which is accompanied by a new website, features three overlapping balloons illustrating NABAS’ evolving journey: Above: The new NABAS logo represents ■T he largest teal the association’s evolving journey. balloon symbolises NABAS’ leadership and vision, lifting businesses to new heights and setting industry standards.

■T he purple balloon represents NABAS’ thriving community of artists, decorators and suppliers who support and elevate one another.

■T he dark blue balloon, forming a subtle location pin, anchors NABAS in expertise and education, the foundation of everything NABAS stands for.

Together, they represent NABAS as the heart of the balloon and party industry – uplifting, inspiring and uniting.

NABAS co-chairs Victoria Cooke and Claire Carney said: “After 38 years as the balloon and party industry’s founding trade association, we have listened to our members feedback that our brand needed refreshing.

“Our new logo is fresh and modern and our new website will have much better functionality for visitors to the site and members accessing our dedicated resources. We are excited for this new chapter which will help both our members and the association as a whole to grow.”

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“CAP Expo is more than a trade show - it’s a vibrant hub of innovation, collaboration and community,” said Jacob Megram, events and projects manager at BAPIA. “We’ve been blown away by the feedback from the 2025 edition and we’re working hard to further diversify the experience in 2026. There will be more hands-on experiences, more relevant product lines, and more opportunities to connect than ever before.”

In 2026, the expo will use a bespoke event app

Opposuits partners with The Smurfs

Right: The new collection has launched with a printed Opposuits suit.

Opposuits has added a new licence to its line-up with a new movie premiered this summer: The Smurfs.

Launching with a printed OppoSuits suit to introduce our blue friends, the new range is expected to become a staple within the collection, introducing more styles over multiple categories next year.

Chaks launches Terrifier collection With Halloween just around the corner, Chaks has unveiled its official Terrifier 3 licensed collection, inspired by last year's viral horror film.

Rediscover modern horror icon, Art the Clown, in a terrifying range of costumes, ultra-realistic masks and chilling accessories. Whether it's for a Halloween party, a horrific event or simply to surprise friends and family, the effect is guaranteed. The Terrifier collection is the perfect choice for true horror.

Costumes include the Art the Clown jumpsuit Terrifier and an Art the Clown bloody jumpsuit Terrifier, both available in three adult sizes. Accessories include an Art the Clown latex mask Terrifier, as well as a deluxe version; a Bloody axe Terrifier; Christmas Tree glasses Terrifier; and Yellow flowers glasses Terrifier.

Above and right: The new Terrifier range from Chaks features a number of costumes and accessories.

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PARTY NEWS

TOP STORY

Fancydress.com acquired by Fun.com Progressive Party understands that long running consumer website fancydress.com has been sold to fun.com. Public accounts show a transaction fee of over £500,000 for the sale, completed in March 2025.

Fancydress.com was established in 2001 by Angels Costumes, a renowned BAFTA‑winning costume house in London with an industry legacy dating back to the 1840s in film, television and theatre costume production.

As part of Angels’ expansion into online retail, Fancydress.com gradually became the UK’s largest online fancy‑dress store, offering thousands of costumes across themes,

sizes and accessories, with many items as low as £0.99 and shipping available in over 200 countries.

The site also developed branded content such as costume guides and blogs to engage shoppers and position itself as a seasonal authority, particularly for Halloween.

Fun.com, established in the early 1990s by the Gallenstein family in Minnesota, is a significant player with over 200 staff, alongside seasonal growth via its halloweencostumes.com site, which accounts for substantial revenue.

Anagram launches new Roly Polies balloons Anagram has introduced a new format of foil balloon – Roly Polies.

Julie Dommett, head of marketing, Anagram Europe, said: “We’ve taken the best of our Standard and SuperShape balloons and combined them into a fun, brand-new format.

“At the centre of each balloon is a circular balloon and then we’ve adorned it with fun additional details to make exciting new shapes. Roly Polies are bigger than a Standard and smaller than a SuperShape – a fresh new offering to the market.”

Roly Polies are initially available in seven popular character styles and three licensed designs featuring Bluey, Spidey and His Amazing Friends and Dora the Explorer.

Below: Rolie Polies are initially available in seven character styles.

Gemar’s Genesio Rocca appointed president of Assogiocattoli Vice president of Gemar, Genesio Rocca, has been named as the new president at the AGM of Assogiocattoli members.

Above: Genesio Rocca The board is the new president unanimously of Assogiocattoli for elected Genesio – the 2025-28 term majority shareholder, vice president and coo of Gemar – as the new president of the Association for the 2025–2028 term, succeeding Gianfranco Ranieri.

The appointment represents not only an important personal recognition for Genesio and Gemar, but also an extraordinary opportunity to actively contribute to the development and innovation of the toy industry.

“I would like to thank the assembly and all the members for the trust they have placed in me,” said Genesio. “It is a great honour for me to take on this role and with a deep sense of responsibility, I will dedicate myself with passion and commitment to strengthening the role of the association, tackling together the challenges of a constantly evolving sector.

“United, we can create new opportunities and increasingly enhance the value of businesses and their ability to innovate.

Assogiocattoli plays a vital role in promoting and protecting a strategic sector that blends creativity, education and economic growth.”

Tiger Feet appoints digital agency UK partyware and greeting card wholesaler, Tiger Feet, has appointed digital agency Wolfenden to drive a new digital marketing strategy.

Wolfenden’s partnership with Tiger Feet began with a successful site migration and brand merger project. Off the back of this, the agency has been appointed to lead an all-encompassing digital strategy designed to build brand visibility, accelerate sales and increase market share.

Wolfenden will draw on its multi-channel expertise – spanning SEO, paid media, digital PR, UX and data & analytics – to connect Tiger Feet’s core audiences with its unrivalled product range and service offering.

Jon Fawcett, head of ecommerce at Tiger Feet commented: “We were looking for a partner who not only understood the complexities of our business and market but could help us scale digitally with confidence.

“Wolfenden’s data-led and collaborative approach has already impressed us, and we see them as a vital strategic partner in our next phase of growth. They’re helping us build a clear, compelling brand presence across all digital touchpoints.”

Daisy Wolfenden, managing director at Wolfenden, added: “There’s so much opportunity in helping a powerhouse like Tiger Feet build out a digital journey that

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truly matches the scale of their offline presence.

“We’re excited to shape a multi-channel strategy that not only increases visibility and performance but makes the brand even more competitive in a dynamic market.”

Above: Wolfenden will use a multi-channel approach to reach Tiger Feet’s core audiences.

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GOMEZ COSTUME

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PROM NIGHT DRESS

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BOY SCHOOL UNIFORM

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MORTICIA DRESS

web : chaks.eu / mail : info@chaks.fr

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PARTY NEWS

TOP STORY

Party suppliers named as finalists for The Licensing Awards Smiffys has signed a new licensing agreement with Dr. Seuss Enterprises to create an officially licensed costume collection inspired by Dr. Seuss stories.

The finalists in the Product categories at The Licensing Awards 2025 have officially been revealed.

Over 4,000 products were entered across the 12 awards categories, with the finalists being arrived at by retail buyers across the whole gamut of licensed and consumer products.

“We were overwhelmed by the amount of entries we had for the Product categories this year – in fact, we had the highest

amount of entries ever, only serving to further underline how vibrant our industry is,” enthused Ian Hyder, ceo at Max Publishing (which owns and organises The Licensing Awards).

The finalists in the Best Licensed DressUp or Partyware Range category are: ■ Angry Birds Costumes from Fun.com ■ Bluey Preschool Range from Rubies Masquerade ■ Captain America: Brave

New World Range from Rubies Masquerade ■ Cinderella 2-in-1 Reversible Rags to Riches Costume for Tu at Sainsburys by Smiffys ■ Deadpool & Wolverine Range from Rubies Masquerade ■ The Gremlins Collection from Smiffys ■ House of The Dragon Range from Rubies Masquerade ■ Kellogg’s Costume Collection from Smiffys ■ Peperami Animal Break Out Costume from Smiffys ■ Pokémon Dress-Up Collection from Disguise

Above: Waiting on the correct logo from Carly to go above here.

■ Skibidi Toilet Costume Collection from Rubies Masquerade ■ Wicked Dress-up Collection from Disguise The Licensing Awards 2025 takes place on Tuesday 16 September at Grosvenor House Hotel, London.

Tickets and tables can be reserved quickly and securely online by visiting Max-Tickets.net or by contacting Clare Hollick at Create Events: clare@ createvents.co.uk or phone +44 (0)1183 340085.

Party Plus signs distribution deal for Conver Party Following its recent distribution partnership with Been Smile, PartyPlus is now the sole UK distributor for Conver Products.

Alongside its own manufactured ranges, wholesale can now be ordered via the company’s new website www. partywholesaler.co.uk.

Conver Party Right and below: The Conver Party range includes a Smurfs ranges include nonparty collection. licensed themes such as Magic, Dino Blast, TNT, Gymnastics, Ballet, Horse, Golf, Tennis and many more, as well as a brand new licensed collection for The Smurfs.

Products include tableware, decorations, balloons and more.

Steve Wilson, co-owner of PartyPlus, commented: “We are thrilled to add Conver Products to our portfolio. The extensive range covers all party needs in a range of attractive designs, which are already very popular with our customers.”

Below: The Spooky Awards are now open for entries.

HCA’s Spooky Awards are back The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has announced the return of the Spooky Awards for 2026.

Now entering its second year, the award programme invites manufacturers and creators to showcase the very best in costumes, accessories, décor, make-up and more.

Back by popular demand, the 2025 Spooky Awards are open to all Halloween product manufacturers — HCA members and non-members alike.

Despite recent increases in tariffs impacting the Halloween industry, HCA remains committed to spotlighting the creativity and innovation within the industry.

Submissions are officially open and will be accepted until 15 August, 2025. HCA members receive one complimentary entry, with additional submissions available at a discounted rate. Non-members are also welcome to participate for a fee.

To submit your entry, visit www.hiaonline.org. Entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts based on innovation, marketability, trendsetting potential, including food and drink appeal and usefulness. characters and Kawaii animal Finalists will be announced on collections. or around 1 October, 2025 and The catalogue also includes will receive the official HCA over 30 new licensed lines Spooky Awards Finalist including Spidey and His logo for use on packaging Amazing Friends, SuperKitties and promotions. Winners will be revealed live during and Winnie the Pooh, as well as the 2026 Halloween & Bluey, Gabby’s Dollhouse and Party Expo in Las Vegas.

Dora the Explorer collections.

Anagram releases new Everyday ranges Anagram has introduced a new trend-led Everyday Collection catalogue, featuring more than 95 new foil and Orbz balloons.

There are new birthday and baby designs with coordinating latex colours highlighted, as well as new trend-led offerings Left: The new catalogue features new trend-led offerings and new licensed lines.

For the latest news visit PartyWorldwide.net

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BLOODY AXE

ART THE CLOWN LATEX MASK

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ART THE CLOWN DELUXE LATEX MASK

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YELLOW FLOWERS GLASSES

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ART THE CLOWN BLOODY JUMPSUIT

ART THE CLOWN and TERRIFIER are registered trademarks of Art The Clown LLC, all rights reserved

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PARTY NEWS

TOP STORY

UK Face & Body Art Convention returns in October 2026

workshops and seminars, covering technical skills, creative techniques and professional development.

Sessions will be led by a diverse roster of UK and international instructors.

Evening events will provide additional opportunities for networking and community building, including themed gatherings such as the ‘Think Pink’ party, a formal Five-day international event celebrates creativity, masquerade gala and a relaxed community and innovation in face and body art. pyjama-themed social night.

The convention concludes face painting The UK Face & Body Art Convention on Monday with a final series competition, will return to Coventry from 8 - 12 of masterclasses delivered by alongside early October 2026. Organised by BAPIA world-renowned instructors, access to the (the Balloon and Party Industry providing a learning experience Traders Room, Alliance), the five-day convention will in a focused setting. offering the bring together professional artists, Tickets are now on sale, with opportunity educators, suppliers and enthusiasts single-day passes starting to explore for a programme of education, from £99 and VIP packages and purchase competition and networking.

Above: The Face and Body Art Convention including accommodation and the latest tools The 2026 convention will open on returns from 8 – 12 October 2026. meals available from £523.50 and products Thursday with a series of exclusive per person (based on double ahead of the general opening. masterclasses and a body painting occupancy). The instructor line-up will From Friday to Sunday, delegates competition. The day will conclude be announced in the coming months. will have access to a schedule of with a live catwalk showcase and VIP

Rubies signs multi-brand agreement with Paramount Consumer Products and Experiences UK New costume lines and accessories featuring PAW Patrol, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants, Avatar: The Last Airbender and DORA will launch across the UK and EMEA Paramount Consumer Products & Experiences UK and Rubies have partnered to launch a new range of costumes and accessories inspired by some of Paramount’s most popular franchises.

New ranges based on PAW Patrol (produced by Spin Master Entertainment), DORA, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Avatar: The Last Airbender will target children of all ages and are set to roll out across the UK and EMEA throughout 2025.

The range coincides with a raft of new content for the brands, including new theatrical releases for PAW Patrol and Avatar: The Last Airbender, a new DORA series, fresh Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles content and a new SpongeBob SquarePants film this December.

“We are constantly exploring different ways to engage our audience and bringing our characters to life through Rubies’ best-in-class role play items enables kids to become their favourite characters all year round,” Simta Sawhey, senior director licensing, Paramount Consumer Products & Experiences, said.

Above: The PAW Patrol range includes costumes inspired by the Fran Hales, head of portfolio brand’s most iconic characters. and marketing at Rubies said: “We are thrilled that Rubies has firmly solidified its strong working partnership with Paramount. Together we’ve always had a longstanding relationship, and we welcome them back into our licensed portfolio.”

The PAW Patrol range includes costumes inspired by the most iconic characters from the hit animated series. Whether it's Marshall, Skye, Chase, or Rubble, each costume comes complete with a jumpsuit, a hat and a backpack.

For the latest news visit PartyWorldwide.net

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UK Greetings launches SmileyWorld partyware range UK Greetings has collaborated with lifestyle brand, SmileyWorld to launch a new kids partyware range.

This is the first time that UK Greetings and SmileyWorld have collaborated and the collection features 13 party goods SKUs and multiple occasion cards.

The new range features greetings cards, balloons, cake toppers, gift bags, gift wrap, paper cups and plates and tablecloths, all featuring Above: The new Smileyworld party the fun and playful icons range features 13 SKUs. of SmileyWorld. The designs feature a mix of icons and include age-specific products, highlighting the width of SmileyWorld’s appeal for kids.

Janet Martin, chief product officer – lifestyle consumer products, The Smiley Company, said: “We’re delighted to see the new SmileyWorld and UK Greetings partyware range launch to trade. SmileyWorld is all about expressing yourself and spreading positivity, this range is about celebrating that and invites everyone to join the party.”

Lora Madigan, licensing manager of UK Greetings, added: “We are delighted to embark on our partnership with The Smiley Company. The brand is a perfect fit for our category and we’re thrilled to bring this product range to market. Our creative team have done a fantastic job adapting Smiley’s wealth of style guides across greeting cards, gift dressings and partywear.”

The range is underpinned by both UK Greetings and SmileyWorld’s commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, with both companies aiming to create products that are Future Positive and take as much care of the planet as possible, this includes the greetings cards, gift bags, paper cups, gift wrap, tablecloths and cake toppers.

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2025 THE HOME OF GLOBAL BRANDS Thousands of exciting meetings happening under one roof, the countdown is on!

7-9 October ExCeL London

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COLUMNIST

Left: Ed Avis is the executive director of the National Costumers Association Contact him at executivedirector@costumers.org.

Let me just start by saying this: Halloween is going to be great this year. Despite the craziness and unpredictability going on in the world right now, Halloween still falls on a Friday and people are still going to want to celebrate.

Halloween in a time of turmoil

C

hildren, especially, couldn’t care less about turmoil in the world – all they care about is getting a costume they want, getting lots of sweets in their trick-or-treat bags and having fun on a chilly autumn day.

There’s an article on the website of the US National World War II Museum that describes Halloween during the war years. Even with rationing and the uncertainties and fears of those years, most communities celebrated Halloween like they always had – parades, parties, trick-or-treating.

In my opinion, the difficulties we are facing now are pretty tame compared to 1941-45.

The real question is this: How can costume shops succeed this Halloween, knowing that many prices will be higher and product availability will be lower?

One of the board members of our association, Courtland Hickey, owner of Chicago Costume, made some great points in this regard in a commentary he wrote for the NCA website.

Regarding the massive tariffs that are sending wholesale costume prices through the roof in the United States, he noted that independent, bricks-and-mortar costume retailers have a different relationship with many of the costumes made in China, than the big box retailers do. Larger stores evidently make worthwhile margins on those costumes, but small retailers need more. The tariff situation will only exacerbate that.

So Hickey is leaning into the strengths of an independent retailer. He’s getting

creative with the cloth, foam and other materials he has and is making oneof-a-kind costumes. He’s refreshing his existing inventory by repacking items, dusting things off and in general making things look spiffy. And he’s reorganising his stores – he has two locations – and his website to emphasise in-stock items.

At the same time, he’s buying new inventory cautiously and he’s not fighting the price fight – he’s charging enough to actually make money on each sale. Let the bargain basement shoppers pick through

the slim inventory at Walmart and Target. If they come to Chicago Costume, they’ll find more and better costumes at appropriate prices.

The NCA has two categories of members: Buyers (retail stores) and suppliers. Since the tariff chaos has begun, I’ve spoken with many of our supplier members about how they’re dealing with it. It’s a moving target for them – the tariffs change whenever the presidential administration seems to have another idea – but overall, I’ve been impressed by how our supplier members are trying to limit the impact of the tariffs.

In some cases, when it’s possible, they are ‘eating’ the tariffs and in other cases, they are only passing on a portion of them. That will hurt their own margins, of course, but they evidently feel the long-term benefit of helping their retail customers will make that temporary hopefully - margin sacrifice worthwhile.

Of course, some of our supplier members are domestic suppliers.

Now more than ever we are grateful to have their steady supply of quality products available.

As we approach Halloween, the NCA will continue to do what we can to make it a great season, with webinars and articles about ways to succeed, emails about discounts and availability, Zoom roundtables to facilitate idea-sharing and other projects.

Together, let’s make this a season that lives up to the expectations of a weekend Halloween.

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From playtime to dreamtime – experts in every line Specialist divisions designing & manufacturing Kids & Adult Nightwear, Babywear, Fashion Sportswear & Outdoorwear

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Experts in all our One creative team.

Specialists in cross category ranges

Our newest licenses

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ASPECTS OF ASSOCIATION: NABAS

Left: Claire Carney and Victoria Cooke.

Have you heard of the famous saying by Jim Rohn – ‘You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with’? The idea is that if you surround yourself with people who are, for example, kind, aspirational or driven, then these traits are likely to rub off on you and the same is said to be true for less favourable characteristics too. Not only is this true in your personal life, but in your business life as well.

Finding your tribe

F

inding or creating a network that can help you develop your strengths is invaluable. Without this support, you are likely to find it harder to develop your ambition and growth.

Constantly pushing and challenging yourself, even if it feels uncomfortable, is when you will stretch your capabilities and your confidence will grow as a result. Having people around you to support and advise will enable you to take these steps more positively.

For many years NABAS has been well known for its friendly, family feel and this was abundantly evident at our Party Industry Event in April. With over 100 people attending, the event

brought out the very best in those who were looking to develop their skills, contacts and confidence.

The networking in classes, at meals and at our supplier stands provided multiple opportunities for delegates to create new connections with others who share a passion for balloons, had advice to share or were just incredibly enthusiastic.

We were also thrilled to launch our first ever awards, giving balloon artists the opportunity to enter for free and try out new ideas and push their boundaries in a safe environment.

The number and standard of entries was fantastic and we send our huge congratulations to all the winners.

The delegates gave us some fabulous feedback: “It is the first time I have exhibited at any event and have been made to feel really welcome.”

“Everyone is really lovely and the atmosphere is really nice, so I’d definitely come back next time.”

“The party and networking with people was absolutely amazing.”

So with this in mind, perhaps think about what it is you want for both your personal and business life. What do you need to help you grow – someone to challenge you, lift you up, act as a sounding board or something else?

Are your closest contacts supporting you to achieve that or hindering you? Or do you need to extend your network to find what you need to help you reach your full potential?

Having someone to bounce ideas off who understands our industry can be incredibly valuable in helping you decide the direction you’d like to take your business in and how that can impact your personal life too.

If you’d like to find out more about joining our NABAS family, either as a decorator, retailer or supplier member, please do contact us at info@nabas.co.uk.

We’re now getting stuck in to planning our 2027 PIE event as it will be our 40th anniversary year, so pencil 10 – 11 October 2027 in your diary now. Tickets will be going on sale later this year - will you be joining us to celebrate our amazing milestone with our very special balloon family?!

Claire Carney and Victoria Cooke NABAS Co-Chairs chair@nabas.co.uk www.nabas.co.uk Inset: Over 100 people attended the Party Industry Event this year.

SUMMER 2025 PROGRESSIVE PARTY EUROPE 19

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HALF TIME FEEDBACK

Half time reaction As we head into the second half of 2025, Progressive Party sits down with some of the industry’s finest independent retailers, balloon artists and wholesalers, to find out how the year has been so far and what their expectations are for the final half.

Jon Evans Operations manager, Plymouth Fancy Dress “It’s been tough. We’ve had some issues related to our town and shop front. The street is being completely ripped to pieces and the majority of where our footfall is, is like a demolition site. That’s not helped us, on top of all the other doom and gloom.

“Trading conditions are tough across the board.

I don’t think we’re only blaming Amazon, eBay and online any more, I think consumers are struggling and they’re choosing to spend disposable income on food and drink rather than non-essentials.

“Another thing we’re noticing compared to previous years, is there’s hardly any events locally and things like Plymouth Pride are being cancelled. So that has a knock-on effect. Our products aren’t impulse buys, people buy them for specific events and parties.

“I think Halloween will be in line with last year. Based on last year, I would have predicted a downturn, but because of the day it falls on, I think we’ll be okay this year. I think it will be damage limitation and we’ll come out more or less even from the October period.”

Right: Plymouth Fancy Dress is seeing less events taking place, meaning less footfall into store.

Gary Watts Managing director and founder, Up Up and Away “The year has been challenging. I think the problem is that now life is so social media driven, we’re all looking at what everyone is doing. Someone will post one picture of something nice and that product will then go ballistic. Then you don’t have enough stock of it because everyone has got caught out.

“You can also never tell if the next film will be popular. You’re trying to get ahead of the curve by buying into something before the film is released, but if it doesn’t do well, you’re sitting on stock. And then something else will come out of the blue like the Labubus, where they create a demand and nobody has got a balloon for it.

“I think all this government seems to do is slaughter anyone who wants to make their own living. Business rates are crippling small businesses.

“Looking ahead, we are seeing some new events taking over for balloons. Elf on the Shelf has been a big one for us. Two years ago, nobody would have asked for ‘back to school’, but then last year, all of a sudden, everyone wants back to school stuff.

“There’s always something coming through and I think as a business you just have to listen to the customers. Having a walk-in cash and carry gives me that edge, because I do listen and react and sometimes I’m able to react way more quickly than the big players.”

Left: Gary Watts is the founder and md of wholesaler, Up Up and Away.

Above: Elf on the shelf has been popular for Up Up and Away.

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HALF TIME FEEDBACK

Robin Flux Managing partner and founder, Master of Disguise “This year, we’re doing pretty well. Every week bar one since April, we’ve been up on last year.

And there actually hasn’t been any large, unusual events – no coronations, or victory day – it’s just been the usual stuff.

“We are careful about how we run the shop. We change the window every week, keep things fresh. We also make sure we have variety – always buy a big variety of the same product.

For example, I have over 200 colours of glitter and when we have festivals, people will buy six or seven. If I only had a few options, they’d just buy one or two.

“To survive in a bricks and mortar retail shop, the key is to diversify. The party industry relies on two main factors – regular events like Halloween etc and less regular occasions – birthdays, concert tours. If Harry Styles or Taylor Swift do a concert tour, we are going to do well on cowboy hats and feather boas. But they won’t be back next year. You get little spurts, which are great, but you can’t rely on them.

“To do well, it’s a good idea to find another avenue to bolster your turnover. We do a lot of animé, Pokémon cards, horror masks, so when we have a bad week on costume, for example

in the summer holidays, Left: 2025 has been a good year for Master of Disguise. we still get customers Below: Stocking a wider variety of one product had coming in and buying. encouraged consumers to buy nore, says Robin.

“Halloween will be great, I have no doubt about it.

Stick to what you normally do – get the usual Ghost masks in, blood, latex, etc and you’ll be fine. I cannot remember a year where I didn’t sell out of blood, makeup and latex. And I order a lot.

“People worry about the value retailers and the grocers, but you can compete. If you can buy in the weird stuff, that’s the strength in a small retail shop – if you pack it with good quality, good variety of stock, you won’t have to worry.”

Ian Ashford Owner, Castle Costumes

Lana Baynton The Pink Balloon Lady

Above: The Pink Party Shop became the Pink Balloon Lady when Lana Baynton set up her home balloon workshop.

“I’ve now closed the Pink Balloon Shop and I’m doing balloons from home, which has been a game changer for me. After Covid, the cost of everything, especially helium, was too much. I was working 80-hour weeks for no money, just to keep the shop open. We owned the building, so I rented that out, set up a workshop at home and I wish I’d done it a while ago now.

“I think the problem is online. The likes of Temu and Shein have killed the industry. I’d had the shop for 20 years and before that my parents had owned it since the early ‘90s, but we were just fighting and it was going to get worse.

People can now get hold of stock at less than wholesale prices. Now that the general public has that access and it’s not just business owners, you can’t compete.

“I’m really busy for the rest of the year. I’m feeling positive about the change I’ve made. Back in the early 90s, my parents started the balloons from home, then they opened the shop, so it’s gone full circle now.

“I’ve just had prom, which was really successful. I’ve got a busy few weekends in August and people are booking for the rest of the year and next year already, so it’s gone really well.”

“It’s not been the easiest of years, but it has picked up a bit this month and this has been one of our best months for three years, which I think is probably due to the good weather. But the rest of the year has been pretty quiet. Certainly quieter than last year. Every year it gets less and less.

“I’ve just done 20 years on the high street and it’s not like it used to be, but I’m still here. I’m quite a small shop, which helps. My overheads are very small compared to some.

“Western has been the biggest theme for the last 18 months.

The 80s and 90s stuff is popular. I always use Halloween as a guide. If you have a good Halloween, you can keep going for another year. I’m feeling relatively confident this year, it falls on a weekend which is a big plus.

“You’re being bitten by the internet and value retailers massively, those who do the decorations.

But I don’t do the decorations now, I just stick to the costumes and accessories, so I’m not trying to compete.”

Above: Ian Ashford, owner of Castle Costumes, modelling some of the latest stock.

Left: Castle Costumes has recently celebrated 20 years on the high street.

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FOCUS ON: FESTIVALS Right: Boland is placing a big focus on festival products in its new product launch in September.

With festival season kicking off and many more to come throughout the year, Progressive Party looks at what is trending this year and how retailers can tap into festival fever in 2025 and beyond.

Live and direct F Right: Colour is key at festivals across Europe, says Opposuits.

estivals continue to be a growing trend among consumers and having had a tough time during Covid restrictions, the sector is back on an upward trajectory. In 2023, figures showed a 35% increase in total revenue for the live sector since 2019. In 2024, Glastonbury alone generated £5.9m in pre-tax profits, up from £2.9m the year before, demonstrating the power of live events.

A trend for summer concert tours is also establishing and while the larger organisers are established in the industry, there is a growing number of local events and family festivals popping up around the UK and further afield, making the sector a growing opportunity for the party sector to tap into.

Mark Brett, sole UK agent for Boland, expands: “With the best part of £83 million spent on tickets alone, plus an estimated further £80 million travel, accommodation, food and drink, at Glastonbury this year and a further £45 million

on ticket sales of Beyonce’s six concerts at Tottenham Hotspur’s ground in London, the figures sort of suggest that perhaps when it comes to festivals and concerts, the cost-of-living pressures are put to one side for a while.

“Festivals (Europe wide) are becoming an increasingly important focus for the dress up market, particularly during the summer months. Within the Boland new product launch in September, there will be a big focus of new products for festivals and concerts. As far as the consumer is concerned, the experiential economy is where it is at.”

Dominique Peckett, director, Smiffys, agrees: “Festival season is well under way. Glastonbury coverage went bigger than ever this year, paving the way for a summer of festival fun. Although the continuing costof-living pressures may make larger festivals inaccessible to some, we’re seeing smaller events pop up.

“Local music festivals and family fun days give that festival feel at a more affordable price point, while still offering opportunities for bright accessories, fun costumes and face paint.”

Fran Hales, head of portfolio and marketing, Rubies, adds: “Despite the continued pressures of the cost of living, we believe that consumers will continue to embrace the joy and escapism that

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FOCUS ON: FESTIVALS

festivals provide, seeking opportunities to express themselves through imaginative and immersive costumes.”

In terms of what’s hot at festivals, colour is key throughout Europe. Jafeth Vermeij, account manager, Oppo Merchandise Group comments: “Festival season in mainland Europe, very much so in the Netherlands, consistently drives interest in colourful party outfits.

From local events to more known festivals, no matter what occasion or music genre, our products are regularly spotted in crowds.

“Coordinated summer suits, summer sets and bold shirts are especially popular with duos and groups looking for some cohesion or playful contrast.

Not all, but a lot of festival goers tend to go all out during festival season. Looking at the amount of festivals taking place and the visitors they attract, people seem to keep attending although prices on all services keep increasing globally.”

There’s a clear winner for adult costumes at Rubies. Fran outlines: “As we look at summer festival season, we anticipate a vibrant and eclectic mix of trending costumes with adults in particular, which means a focus on accessories that will capture the spirit of these celebrations such as Pride.

“When it comes to costumes though, there is always one set of summer stand outs… the adult Teletubbies range. We always see an uptake on sales for our Teletubbies when we hit the summer months and it’s part of the reason why

we expanded the range last year, by introducing the character headbands, which retail at just £9.99.

“It follows the same trend every year as fun and novelty costumes seem to reign supreme; in the non-branded space we have introduced our Beer Leader costume (perfect for any stag do), whilst amongst our licensed properties our new range of Marvel adult costumes including Ghost Spider, Spider-Man and Hulk have seen considerable interest from festival and party goers.”

Cowboys and cowgirls are set to make a festival appearance again this year. Dominique says: “The western trend isn’t going anywhere, with cowboy hats, boots and bandanas seen all over social media once again this summer, boosted by the Cowboy Carter Tour and Above: Smiffys says coordinating costumes are still going strong.

Below: Teletubbies proves a hit for Rubies every summer as consumers ready their festival outfits.

the continuing popularity of country music. This fashion/fancy dress cross over is a great opportunity for party suppliers to boost sales, with costume accessories going mainstream.”

The occasion has some influence on the costume, too. Mark comments: “What products sell? that depends very much on the festival. During Beyonce’s concerts there was a huge spike in the ordering of white cowboy hats. While not having any objective evidence, it wouldn’t be too much of a wild guess as to where most of those ordered were destined.”

Accessories also remain king this year. Mark concludes: “As for a more general trends on festival and events dress up, the focus is on hats (plus assorted varieties of headwear), sunglasses, boas, ponchos, leis and wigs.

“Festivals (Europe wide) are becoming an increasingly important focus for the dress up market, particularly during the summer months. Within the Boland new product launch in September, there is a big focus of products for festivals and concerts. Boland see that this is the area for growth over the coming years. As far as the consumer is concerned, the experiential economy is where it is at.”

SUMMER 2025 PROGRESSIVE PARTY EUROPE

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ADULTS & KIDS

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FOCUS ON: FESTIVALS

FESTIVALS PRODUCTS

The Night Jungle Hawaiian shirt from Oppo Merchandise Group leans into darker, layered tropical visuals.

Within the Boland new product launch, there is a range of Bucket hats. A great add-on item for festivals and concerts and everyday fun wear, the hats are easy to wear, easy to carry, easy to look good and pretty easy on the pocket.

From classic leather looks to metallic hues and animal print, Smiffys’ cowboy hat range is trending, with new colours and embellished styles adding to the range every season. The perfect finishing touch for a stylish western look or a fun group accessory to help find friends in a crowd.

Oppo Merchandise Group’s Tropic Pride Hawaiian shirt celebrates inclusivity with bright, festive motifs.

Comedy group costumes are always a hit for festival season. Smiffys’ new license food themed costumes from Kelloggs, Pringles and Peperami make the perfect, easy to wear group festival costumes.

SUMMER 2025 PROGRESSIVE PARTY EUROPE

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FOCUS ON: OUTDOORS

let’s go outside

Left: Ice creams themes, such as these Anagram balloons, are popular with children.

Bottom left: Bright, fun themes such as flamingos, lend themselves well to outdoor parties, says Anagram.

Bottom right: Tropical themes like this range from Anagram, are ideal for summer gatherings.

Below: Consumers are swapping pricey venues for making statements in their own gardens, says Tiger Feet.

Entertaining at home continues to be popular in the UK and further afield, as consumers opt to host their own parties to combat continuing economic pressures.

Party suppliers share the products set to trend this summer and beyond.

T

he move towards forgoing venue hire for summer parties may be continuing, with consumers inviting friends and family to their gardens to celebrate instead, but there is still a huge appetite for products which help them style their space, create themed events and make the occasions special.

Joanna Formby, head of product, Tiger Feet, explains: “There’s no question, the back garden is the new party venue for 2025. Families are still eager to celebrate big moments, but the ongoing cost-of-living pressure means they’re swapping pricey venue hire for creating party spaces in their own gardens.”

“We’re seeing a direct surge in demand for party essentials that offer maximum impact for a minimal price; balloons, bunting, flowers and

themed tableware are flying out.”

Anagram is seeing a move towards fun themes for outdoor gatherings, including tropical themes, with lush green and pink colourways, cocktails, bright flowers and flamingo graphics – and says its AirLoonz air-filled balloons are an easy way to instantly theme any party.

Julie Dommett, head of marketing furthers: “The cocktail based ‘Tini Bit Older’ theme has also been trending on Instagram recently. Anagram’s new Cocktail Surprise range includes a classic martini glass large foil shape as well as a Standard and Orbz with a coordinating birthday message.”

Oppo Merchandise Group sees themes as instrumental to outdoor party planning. Jafeth Vermeij, account manager, expands: “Outdoor gatherings, whether personal or public, are very theme-driven in our experience. Across all our current sales regions, national holidays and seasonal events often set the tone for what people wear. From Fourth of July celebrations to local summer fêtes, dressing up for outdoor occasions remains a popular tradition.

“The product demand here is varied, depending on the nature of the event, but strong themes such as tropical, retro etc, tend to guide purchases. Lightweight fabrics such as our Hawaiians and matching Summer Sets are particularly valued for standing out during warmer weather.

I think outdoor parties is something people will choose above hiring a venue anytime as long as the weather allows it.”

For family gatherings, Joanna sees an opportunity for incremental sales: “Our outdoor and active play ranges are selling really well. Parents want affordable fun that keeps everyone entertained for hours, so pick up items like our bubble machines and garden games are muststock products for any retailer this summer.

It’s all about helping people create those memories without it costing a fortune.”

Julie expands: “For children with summer birthdays, outdoor parties at home are a

great option. Dinosaurs and Ice Creams are always a favourite for younger children, gaming continues to be the hot theme for older boys. Cute anime type designs are also trending up in all consumer categories.”

Steve Wilson, co-owner of Party Plus sees demand for both licensed and non-

licensed themes for children’s outdoor parties. “We now offer the BeenSmile licensed ranges of partyware and while the new blockbuster films like The Smurfs will always be popular, we are also seeing great demand for more evergreen characters such as PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig and Garfield.

“Meanwhile, our latest offering from Conver includes non-licensed themes which are always popular with little ones, such as ballet, animals, tractors, football and more.”

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OUTDOORS PRODUCTS

Anagram’s new Cocktail Surprise range includes a classic martini glass large foil shape as well as a Standard and Orbz with a coordinating birthday message.

The recently released Launch 1 Collection from Anagram balloons includes new Cool Dinos, with a fun SuperShape and new Roly Polies format dinosaurs.

Rainbow Glaze, a colourful suit colour from Oppo Merchandise Group, has been transformed into a summer set for outdoor summer parties.

Crafted from premium latex, Tiger Feet’s latex balloons are printed on both sides to ensure they look good from every angle. Whether you’re planning a kids’ party or a grown up birthday bash, the balloons are suitable for either helium or air filling.

BeenSmile licensed products now come with the snack trays, lunch boxes and popcorn boxes to match.

Party Plus has seen lots of interest in the full set, instead of standard plate, cup, napkin assortments.

Anagram recently launched a new ‘Game On’ range.

Ranges such as magic and game on are available in a wide range of products from the Conver collection from Party Plus.

Anagram expects to see Kawaii trending this year and recently introduced the supercute Kawaii Puppy and Kitty collections.

Tiger Feet printed latex balloons are the perfect way to add personality to any event - from birthday parties to baby showers to engagement parties.

In line with the movie coming out in the midst of summer, Oppo Merchandise Group has launched subtle Superman swim shorts for all fans.

The new Conver offering from Party Plus includes all partyware in a range of popular themes, such as ballet.

Lush green and pink colourways, cocktails, bright flowers and flamingo graphics, such as this Let’s Flamingle design from Anagram, are set to trend in 2025.

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FOCUS ON: WEDDINGS

love and marriage There’s no one size fits all for weddings in 2025 with some couples opting for more traditional neutrals and others choosing tropical brights.

This opens up a wealth of opportunity for sales in the party sector with a wide range of products available for brides and grooms to-be.

Left: Anagram has seen soft dusty blues, blush colours and soft lilac colourways trending for wedding décor.

Below: Tiger Feet has seen a trend for balloons making a statement for the big day.

Bottom right: Smiffys has added to its Wedding Celebrations range for 2025 with accessories such as glasses and jackets.

T

he annual Pinterest Wedding Trends Report for 2025 showed that Gen Z is set to shake up the wedding scene this year. Pinterest forecasted that minimalism is taking a backseat to make space for colourful modern aesthetics and hyper-personal touches. Brown was expected to be the hottest colour for the big day, while other influences like nature, florals, nostalgic looks and tropical destinations are also set to be in favour.

The use of balloons – particularly organic style décor installations – continues to be popular as a stylish way to celebrate that most important day.

In terms of colour trends, Julie Dommett, head of marketing at Anagram Europe says: “While neutral colours have been popular for a number of seasons (soft pearl whites, pearl ivory, sand, eucalyptus greens with silver and gold accents), in 2025 we have seen soft dusty blues, blush colours and soft lilac colourways trending upwards – with Anagram’s Dusty Blue, Galactic Lilac and Antique Pink latex shades proving extremely popular.”

More daring colours are also popular.

Dominique Peckett, director at Smiffys

adds: “Bright, vibrant colours are everywhere for weddings this year. Bold décor and playful retro details make a statement, with orange and pink hues and 70s influences on the rise.”

Colour is also important for the men at the ceremony. Jafeth Vermeij, account manager, Oppo Merchandise Group, explains: “Solid coloured suits have been a core part of our collection since the beginning of OppoSuits, also during wedding season. This category mainly performs well yearround in the US, where the demand spans both adult and children’s sizes.

“The US contains much more larger stores with a wider range of mixed inventory as opposed to European stores, which makes complimentary sales possible. Our suits are often chosen for their accessible look and price point across all designs.

“My advice to maximise sales

is to make sure to always keep a complete size range in stock of a particular category for fitting. With present digital order and shipping possibilities, retailers can get in stock items delivered in no-time.”

Ways to capture memories of the day are also changing. Dominique concludes: “Couples are also choosing to use QR codes inviting guests to share their photos and hiring wedding content creators.

This is both cost effective and allows access to instant content from the wedding, with photos and videos from the big day ready to share the day after.

“With social media an increasing influence on weddings, photobooths remain a popular choice. Creating a fun, sharable memento for hours after the photographer has left. This is a big opportunity for Smiffys, with novelty accessories and props making a fun addition to the photos.

Decades accessories are particularly popular, adding to the retro feel.”

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New Format!

Roly Polies™

Trend Alert!

Ballerina Birthday Range

Trend Alert!

Kawaii Puppies & Kitties

Trend Alert!

Food Friends

“Cheers” to the Newest Additions in the Anagram Range!

Check out the latest new products in our Launch 1 collection featuring a host of on-trend foil and Orbz® designs, licensed character favourites and our brand new format - Roly Polies™ Scan here to view the catalogue, or email hello@anagrameurope.com or call +44 (0)1279 501090 to request your printed copy.

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FOCUS ON: WEDDINGS

WEDDING PRODUCTS

The boys’ Charcool suit from Opposuits offers a deeper, modern shade of grey.

Retro feels and disco vibes, Smiffys new disco ball décor and tinsel curtains are an affordable wedding décor option. Easy to hang, tinsel curtains and disco balls instantly transform any event, adding a nostalgic feel.

Smiffys has added to its Wedding Celebrations range for 2025. For the style conscious Bride, a classic white Bride-to-Be Kit, Tinsel Jacket and Pink Heart specs make for an insta worthy Hen Do.

For stags and hens who are up for a laugh, Smiffys’ new collection features Inflatable willy and stripper costumes, willy hats, a money gun and more.

Hootyballoo’s Geometric Greenery collection takes inspiration from nature and retro design to create a classic look.

Pastellow introduces a fresh pastel style with a product name you would expect from OppoSuits.

Time to Trio Shine – Gemar has launched three sprays, available individually or as part of the exclusive Time to Shine Kit, to make the best of any balloon installation.

Time to Sparkle is a glitter spray; Time to Clean is a degreasing spray, ideal for cleaning all surfaces after events; and Time to Shine is a polishing spray to restore the shine of balloons, removing fingerprints and dullness to bring back vibrant colour and clarity.

Hootyballoo is offering a monochrome wedding range for sophisticated style.

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PartyWorldwide.net is the only digital news platform dedicated to the global party products and celebration industry. It serves as the digital companion to Progressive Party magazine, the world’s only business magazine for the sector.

Covering the industry’s updates each week, the newsflash reaches the inboxes of suppliers, buyers and all industry executives, with opted-in subscribers from across the globe.

Industry News & Updates: Major developments, company acquisitions, executive appointments, retail trends.

Event Coverage: Key dates, interviews and event coverage for all key exhibitions and conferences.

Market Analysis: The platform features discussed insights, product trend and seasonal performance news along with the latest retail movements.

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EXECUTIVE PROFILE

John Bowler, chief executive of BAPIA, the Balloon and Party Industry Alliance, chats about community, social media and the value of the industry.

John Bowler.

Focus on your own business HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT BAPIA? After about 25 years in different roles throughout the industry, I started BAPIA in 2010 so I have been here for 15 years. It wasn’t something that I had planned, it came about after a conversation with one of the key manufacturers and then further conversations across the industry and there was clearly a lot of support for the idea, so here we are 15 years later.

myself generally to be a very positive person and I view all aspects of my role as being part of what makes the whole thing interesting for me. If I had to give a definitive answer, I would say it is probably the accounting side

painting, soft play, sleep over parties or one of the many aspects of party, social media has been a major factor in the growth of the industry and I believe that while it has increased the numbers of ‘Do It Yourself-ers’ it has also been pivotal in significantly increasing the demand for party professionals nationwide.

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? There would be two different pieces of advice that I stand by. The first one is to focus on your own business.

All of the time spent focusing on a competitor is time and energy wasted while your competitor is moving ahead. The second is that your business can benefit more by going over the top to correct a mistake or error, than if you had got it right in the first place. Customer service is absolutely key to success.

BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE TAKEN AWAY FROM THE LAST YEAR? We have an incredible small team at BAPIA, they are dedicated and keen to ensure that members get the most out of their membership. This has really hammered home the fact that people are the most important part of any organisation.

Without them and their commitment, BAPIA, CAP Expo, GOSH Décor Day, UK FABAC and everything that we do, would not be possible.

I love it when we create a new project, CAP Expo, Face Painting Convention etc. I get really excited and enthusiastic when there is something new that I genuinely feel will excite the industry.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT AT THE COMPANY? I am very proud of the company as a whole and I like to think that we are trusted and respected by our members and the industry generally.

I also want our members to feel like they are part of a community. If I have achieved these things, then that would be my greatest achievement.

FAVOURITE PART OF YOUR JOB? I love it when we create a new project, CAP Expo, Face Painting Convention etc. I get really excited and enthusiastic when there is something new that I genuinely feel will excite the industry and we can work on as a team to develop the idea. I really enjoy working with like-minded people and bringing things to fruition.

LEAST FAVOURITE PART OF YOUR JOB? This is a difficult one as I consider

of the business, but even with that we have a bookkeeper who handles most of it, so I just do as I am told.

WHO IS THE UNSUNG HERO OF THE COMPANY? I think we would probably all agree that it is Michelle, our membership administrator. She has been with us for a couple of years now and is totally invested in the role, communicating with members and responding to questions as promptly as possible while also ensuring that memberships are kept up to date. Thanks Michelle.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHANGE WITHIN THE PARTY INDUSTRY THAT YOU HAVE SEEN SINCE YOU HAVE WORKED IN IT? This would have to be social media.

It created greater awareness of the party industry and the possibilities and opportunities that are available.

Whether it is balloon décor, face

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT THE PARTY INDUSTRY, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY? If I could change just one thing in the party industry, it would be how the world sees us. We’re not ‘just a bit of fun’ – we are an industry of skilled professionals running real businesses. By educating customers, setting standards and valuing ourselves and our work, we can elevate the entire industry.

IF YOU DIDN’T WORK IN THE PARTY INDUSTRY, WHAT INDUSTRY WOULD YOU WORK IN AND WHY? If I had the skill and opportunity, I would be an F1 driver as I think it is about the only job that would give me a similar buzz to running my own business. Clearly that is never going to happen, so I am very happy to stay in the party industry.

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