The Gift Awards 2026 by Max Publishing: Print, Digital Media + Events (London)

THURSDAY 14 MAY 2026 NINE

WELCOME TO . . . . . . THE GIFT AWARDS 2026

We’re delighted to welcome everyone in the gift industry - retailers, gift suppliers, manufacturers, reps and agents - to The Gift Awards 2026, a glittering event that brings all facets of our incredible industry together for an evening of celebration, networking and bonhomie!

Uniting the gift industry, the winners of The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year (GOTY) product Awards, and The Greats gift retailer awards will be revealed at tonight’s fabulous black-tie awards here at London’s 5 star Royal Lancaster Hotel. While the Gift of the Year

Awards celebrate product excellence, innovation and creativity, The Greats Awards – which celebrate their 24th anniversary this year – shine the spotlight on gift independents and multiples that demonstrated exceptional retail flair in the last year. Tonight is therefore

a fabulous opportunity to recognise and reward excellence on both sides of the industry.

The widespread support for The Gift Awards, now in their fifth year, has seen another strong roster of sponsors, as well as a high level of engagement with the Gift of the Year and The Greats Awards, further underlining their importance and status of these accolades that do the industry proud.

The outstanding winners of the Gift of the Year Awards and The Greats Awards will be revealed during the evening, and afterwards, everyone is invited to let their hair down on the dancefloor – which includes a live set from Candlelight’s founder Mike Winch and his band

RockStock - and do some networking!

With such a stellar line-up of gift companies and gift retailers, we’d like to congratulate each and every one of our fantastic finalists and wish them all the very best of luck.

Have a fabulous evening!

Gemma Sault, managing director, The Giftware Association

Sue Marks, editor, Progressive Gifts & Home/ GiftsandHome.net

ticketing has been the responsibility of Clare Hollick of Createvents while Max Live Events has undertaken the

Above: London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Above: Gemma Sault (left) and Sue Marks.

WITH THANKS TO . . . . . . OUR FABULOUS SPONSORS

The Gift Awards 2026 have been supported by a strong roster of sponsors. They include: Ambiente; British Allied Trades Federation (BATF); Boxer Gifts; Candlelight; CardGains; Cereria Mollá 1899; The Gift & Lifestyle Consortium (The G&LC); Giftsource International; The Giftware Association (GA); Gisela Graham London; Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair; Home & Gift, Harrogate; Housewares.net; Inis (Fragrances); London International Stationery Show; Joe Davies; London Toy Fair/British Toy and Hobby Association; N Smith Packaging & Display; Paper Salad; Products of Change; Progressive Gifts & Home; Method UK; Pembe the Pink Cat; Progressive Greetings Live; Progressive Preschool; The Puppet Company/Wilberry Toys; Skylight Media; Talking Tables; Top Drawer A/W 26 and Trade Counter Distribution.

Our Headline Supporters: Spring & Autumn Fair

Spring Fair & Autumn Fair are, once again, proud to be the headline supporters of The Gift Awards.

Extra thanks to associate sponsors …

…Stacey McNeill, founder and creative director of Fox Under The Moon, for designing the bespoke Gift Awards tickets and illustrated pocket notebook from licensee Joe Davies featuring an uplifting quote.

“Spring & Autumn Fair are very proud to continue as headline sponsors of The Gift Awards, celebrating the creativity, resilience and innovation that define our industry,” says Autumn Fair’s portfolio director, Jackson Szabo. “At a time of rapid change, recognising and bringing together the retail community has never been more important. These awards champion the people and businesses shaping the future of retail, reinforcing our shared commitment to supporting growth, collaboration and longterm success across the sector.”

. . . Boxer Gifts for supplying The Gift Awards Good Luck gift books and sponsoring the place cards.

. . . Audiobook in a Card for sponsoring tonight’s menu cards featuring three delicious, bespoke courses, specially created for The Gift Awards by the Royal Lancaster Hotel.

. . . Cereria Mollá 1899 for making loo breaks a fragrant experience tonight thanks to the company’s premium fragrance reed diffusers in the cloakrooms.

Above: The Gift Awards tickets designed by Stacey McNeill, founder and creative director of Fox Under The Moon.

Above: Boxer Gifts’ gift books are doubling as place cards.

Left: The Gift Awards menu cards have been sponsored by Audiobook in a Card.

Right: Autumn Fair’s portfolio director Jackson Szabo. Far right: Fay Tranter, Spring Fair event director.

The Greats Awards 2026

The fabulous Greats retailer finalists are the result of an industrywide poll of gift suppliers, reps, agents and selfnominations.

Amazing Raffle Prizes To Be Won

Please dig deep for The Gift Awards

raffle, where there are lots of fabulous prizes to be won! All monies raised on the night will be divided between The Benevolent Society and The Light Fund

The Benevolent Society is a charitable society of the British Allied Trades Federation (which the GA is a part of) and financially assists individuals who have worked within the giftware, jewellery, surface engineering, travel goods and fashion accessories industries. The Society also helps individuals starting or progressing their career journeys in these industries through bursaries to help with their studies.

The Light Fund is a registered charity (with Max Publishing directors Jakki Brown and Ian Hyder two of its founders) which raises money for charity projects that help men, women and children all over the world. It has now raised well over £2.5million since its inception in 2004 and has changed the lives of thousands.

Rockin’ The Room

Rock ‘n’ roller Mike Winch, founder of Candlelight, will, once again, be taking to the stage tonight, strutting his stuff with his band RockStock

A Double Billing

Hosting tonight’s fabulous Awards ceremony we have two superstars from different fields.

The Greats awards will be hosted by legendary fashion design Jeff Banks, who, throughout his long career, has dressed some the biggest celebrity names in the world, shaken hands with the late Queen and met the King of rock and roll Elvis Presley, along with countless other famous names and celebrities.

After dinner, the Gift of the Year awards will be presented by comedian Ignacio Lopez, a crazy mix of Welsh & Spanish, who has been wowing audiences internationally with his individual style and high gag-rate since 2010.

As a young ‘60s Rotherham rock star, his then band - The Origators Creed – topped the bill ahead of Joe Cocker, playing gigs supporting the Cream, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Pink Floyd and Wilson Pickett.

Joining Mike on stage will be RockStock’s lead guitarist, Andrew Poulston, managing director of PR Home.

A frequent headliner and MC in top comedy clubs all over the UK, he gained TV recognition in 2011 when he appeared on ITV’s Show Me The Funny, and since then he has gone on to become a regular face on BBC Wales Sesh, also appearing on Live At The Apollo, QI and Have I Got News For You.

Left: Comedian and compere Ignacio Lopez.

Left: Candlelight’s Mike Winch on stage with his band RockStock.

Above: Jeff Banks will be hosting The Greats awards.

2026 FINALISTS

Bill & Bert’s, Colchester

Brand Academy, London

Daisy Home, East Twickenham

The Voewood, London

Category sponsored by

Nellie & Dove, Deddington

retail spectrum over the past year, to include their range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

2026 FINALISTS

Cotswold Trading, Broadway and Leamington Spa

Robins and Feather Robins Gifts, Northampton and Daventry

In Heaven at Home, Market Harborough

and

KooKoo Madame, Caerphilly, Pontypridd and Talbot Green

Gift Shop, Ludlow

Hugs & Kisses, Tettenhall

Feather

Foxy Lots, Melton Mowbray

Oakham

Ludlow

Village Pottery

Pebble Glass Art In Glass

Cheery Crochet

Fox Under The Moon

The Barn At The Hollies and Hollies Farm On the High Street, Little Budworth

The Curious Fox, Chorlton-cum-Hardy

Belly Button, Stockport and West Didsbury Celebrations, Carlisle

Razzberry Bazaar, Tynemouth

Robert & Ruby, Helmsley

CRITERIA: Independent gift retailers in the West and South West who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the past year, to include their range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

2026 FINALISTS

Attico, Westbourne

Hyde And Seek, Exeter

Daisy Park, South Molton

Fig & Fox, Basingstoke, Romsey and Salisbury

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Just Delights, Penryn Soukous, Bristol

INDEPENDENT GIFT RETAILER OF THE YEAR – SCOTLAND

2026 FINALISTS

Bijou and Pozzi, Elgin and Buckie

Maia Gifts, Glasgow

Groats Gifts, John o’Groats Halibut & Herring, Edinburgh

Ruby Red, Milngavie

Scarlet Ribbons, Falkirk

CRITERIA: A new independent gift shop which has opened in the UK since January 2023, showing excellence in all areas of the retail spectrum over the past year, to include their range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

2026 FINALISTS

Category sponsored by

Ashbrooke Home, Sunderland

Ivy & Rose Gifts, Birmingham

CAHM, Farsley

Forget-Me-Not and Green, London

Little Red, Petworth

Rebel & Ashby, St. Neots

2026 FINALISTS

Collectables, North East (10 stores)

Lisa Angel, East Anglia and West Midlands (7 stores)

Jumping Bean, London (5 stores)

Lark, London and the South (24 stores)

Oliver Bonas, Nationwide (Over 90 stores)

Vinegar Hill, South and the Midlands (16 stores)

includes product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, window and product display, as well as commitment to the gift sector.

2026 FINALISTS

Barkers,

Morleys Stores, 7 stores in the South

Fenwick, 8 stores nationwide

John Lewis & Partners, 36 stores nationwide

Northallerton

Bradbeers, Hedge End, New Milton, Romsey and Salisbury

Elphicks, Farnham

Jarrolds, Norwich

The category is open to independent or multiple retailers for whom gifts are not their main product focus, to include visitor attractions, museums and supermarkets. Retailers should demonstrate excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the past year, to include their range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

2026 FINALISTS

The Ashmolean Museum Gift Shop, Oxford

Gift Barn, Priory Farm Shop, Redhill

Chester Zoo Gift Shop, Chester

The Savill Garden Visitor Centre Gift Shop, Windsor Great Park

House & Garden, Snape Maltings, Snape

Garsons, Esher and Titchﬁeld

Okells Garden Centre, Tarvin

Gates Garden Centre, Hinckley and Oakham

The Mains of Drum, Banchory

Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup

Scotsdale Garden Centre, Great Shelford

Twenty Pence Garden Centre, Wilburton

demonstrating excellence in gift and homewares over the past year.

2026 FINALISTS

Blue Diamond Garden Centres (59 centres)

Longacres (6 centres)

British Garden Centres (79 centres)

Hillier Garden Centres (22 centres)

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Otter Garden Centres, (8 centres)

Yorkshire Garden Centre Group (7 centres)

Category sponsored by

CRITERIA: The category is open to retailers whose window and/or in-store displays are either specific to one product range, or of a more generic nature, demonstrating originality and maximum visual impact.

2026 FINALISTS

Attico, Westbourne

Kookoo Madame, Caerphilly, Pontypridd and Talbot Green

Cornucopia, Worcester

The Curious Fox, Chorlton-cum-Hardy

Moda, Folkestone Paper Tiger (4 stores), Edinburgh

CRITERIA: This category is open to all retailers who have undertaken a specific development or initiative over the past year that was instrumental in increasing retail growth of gift products, e.g. through promotions, website activity, a staff training programme or a customer loyalty programme.

2026 FINALISTS

Bill & Bert’s, Colchester for its What’s In The Box? Initiative

Highworth Emporium, Highworth for its role in the Highworth Volunteers’ Week Initiative

Brand Academy, London for its Creative Career Catalyst Programme

Mooch London, London for its 12 Days of Moochmas Initiative

More Than Just A Gift, Narborough Hall, Narborough for its Female Founders Month and Gratitude Tree

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Groats Gifts, John o’Groats for its Tales From Behind The Counter Social Media Series

GIFT OF THE YEAR 2026

The Judges Cast Their Votes. . .

After months of anticipation, hundreds of entries, and two rigorous rounds of judging by a panel of over 125 industry experts, the winners of the very best products from the home and gift industry will be revealed tonight, with categories including the prestigious Judges’ Choice Award.

This year’s Gift of the Year competition was one of the most competitive to date, with judges from leading retailers, trade publications and industry bodies challenged to select their top contenders from an outstanding 700+ entries.

Once again, a dedicated area in Hall 5 at February’s Spring Fair provided the ideal venue for leading names in gift retail, as well as experts in the fields of sustainability, licensing and gift trade media, to come together to browse and judge the shortlisted products.

“Hosting the Gift Of The Year live judging at Spring Fair is incredibly important, not just for the competition, but for the wider industry,” commented Fay Tranter, event director of Spring Fair. “It brings the

process to life, allowing judges to see, touch, feel and experience each product exactly as customers would. With all shortlisted entries in one place, it creates a moment for leading retail voices to assess innovation, creativity and commercial potential in real time.”

Continued Fay: “As our gift sector continues to grow, it’s a strong platform for discovery, giving brands valuable exposure to buyers while reinforcing Spring Fair’s role at the heart of the gifting community. It also highlights our focus on championing the people, stories and craftsmanship behind the brands, creating space for meaningful, real-world connections.”

The show, which welcomed thousands of visitors, saw many of them eager to explore the shortlisted products, collect the official shortlist brochure

The Gift of the Year Awards

The Gift of the Year awards celebrate the most exciting, innovative successful products across 20 diverse categories, spanning Affordable Gifts, Beauty, Bath & Spa and Contemporary Gift to Ethical & Sustainable Gift, Home Fragrance and Novelty, Tech & Gadgets.

and discover the most exciting new launches.

“The selection of products for Gift of the Year is always strong and they get stronger every year, whether that’s through the quality of photography on

Gift of the Year 2026 Judges Included. . .

Connecting retailers with the newest products is one of the most rewarding aspects of the competition, says The Giftware Association. With such a wide range, the Gift Of The Year awards judges reflect the diversity of the gift industry. Judges are experts, operating at the heart of the industry, with every judge lending prestige to the competition.

This year’s GOTY retail judges included: Carla Ringer, buyer, Blue Diamond; Claire Bevan, head of retail, Natural History Museum; Lucy Benham, sourcing own brand Home category; John Lewis; Rebecca Gilligan, buyer, Elphicks; Sarah Crees, head gift buyer at Garsons; Beth Kirwin, buying assistant, National Portrait Gallery; Hannah Oxley, head of retail and ecommerce at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; Dale Boreham, senior design manager, Moonpig and Helena MansellStopher, founder and ceo, Products of Change.

Above: The Giftware Association team are shown at the Gift of the Year judging at Spring Fair. From left to right they are: Greta Baker, Chris Workman, Gemma Sault and Sequioa Horton.

their initial entries or through the actual products themselves,” stated The Giftware Association’s head of operations and events, Chris Workman.

“A lot of the products we saw this year are a reflection of the state of the industry, with attention being put into making them more meaningful gifts, gifts that will last. There was also a lot of fun put into products, with our Novelty and Tech category the strongest it has been for a long time. Plus, the home fragrance category always impresses with new innovation, new vessels and, of course, new fragrances. In fact, the judges pointed out that this year was a super strong year for the competition, with the gift industry back to full strength.”

Samantha Gibbs, owner of Nest gift stores in Stoneygate and Thurlaston Garden Centre & Tearoom, enthused: “Every year, it’s such an inspiration to see the wealth of new products that have been put forward for Gift of The Year. The talent and creativity are there to see. However, beyond that, the time and effort it takes to create new ranges is testament to the companies that apply.”

Pointed out Samantha: “As a buyer, it’s such a wonderful

way to see - and buy!new ranges. The huge positive is that our customers at Nest then get to see them too, and we have award winning products on the shelves in no time at all.”

Paddy Morton, manager of Strickland and Holt in Yarm, agreed. “There were great products all around this year, and it was good to see the gift industry back to full speed.” Concurring was

Andrea Pinder, owner of Presentation Cards & Gifts in

Barrowford, who emphasised, “there was wonderful talent producing fabulous products. Being a judge is not only a privilege it’s a great honour too.”

Hannah Bartlett, owner of festive influence site, Jolly Festive, revealed: “I’m always in awe of the innovation on display with so many products striking that careful balance between utility and visual impact to create something truly original. It’s fascinating to see how entries evolve each year in response to changing customer needs, particularly the growing focus on provenance, sustainability and opportunities for personalisation.

The People’s Choice Award

Once again, The Giftware Association will be announcing the winner of the Gift of the Year People’s Choice award at the Sundowners drinks event at the end of the first day of Home & Gift Buyers' Festival on Sunday 19 July.

The category is judged by the general public, enabling everyone to vote for their favourite product across all GOTY categories.

As with previous years, The Giftware Association has opened the category up to all shortlisted products.

“For me, judging is a real privilege. There’s something very special about getting a first glimpse of what’s coming to market, discovering new brands, and then, in many cases, meeting the designers behind the products at Spring Fair. It brings the whole process to life.”

Start Licensing’s founder and director, Ian Downes, said that being a Gift of the Year judge gives him a useful snapshot of the ‘best of’ the gift sector.

“It’s very rewarding to see the level of creativity and innovation driving new product development in the sector. It’s clear that gift companies are working hard to ensure the ranges that they

develop resonate with retailers and consumers. The Gift of the Year programme helps to drive creativity in the industry and helps keep standards at a high level. I always leave the process buoyed up and full of admiration for the companies who have entered the awards.”

There was international praise and recognition too, from Jenna Barlow of Nifty Gifts. “Judging Gift of the Year from South Africa gives me a front row view of what’s next in gifting globally, which is invaluable for keeping our range fresh and on trend. It’s always inspiring to see the creativity and innovation that comes through from such talented entrants.”

Summing up, Chris emphasised: “The judging panel had an incredibly tough task choosing their favourites from such an outstanding selection, so congratulations to all of our finalists. It’s a huge achievement, and we can’t wait to reveal the winners tonight at The Gift Awards!”

Top, middle and left: Gift of the Year judges were out in force at Spring Fair for the live judging.

products excellent or price or under.

CRITERIA: Gifts products that offer excellent value without compromising on quality or style, with a retail price point of £20 or under.

2026 FINALISTS

City Mystery Guides from Mystery Guides

Grab & Go Play Activity Cards from UnderSky

Boxed Ceramic Decorations from Belly Button Designs from Thinking Gifts

Screen Cleaner Buddies from Gift Republic

Tiny Notes A7 Notebooks from Ohh Deer

13-15 September 2026

THE CURATED EDIT OF DESIGN-LED BRANDS AND EMERGING TALENT

10,000+ RETAIL BUYERS

25,000 INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

600+ CONTEMPORARY BRANDS

7 CURATED SECTORS

APPLY TO EXHIBIT

CRITERIA: Products for grooming, beauty or health, or those that bring a touch of the spa into the home. spa

Bubble Shots from Wild Olive

Shower Steamers from Wild Olive

Heritage Lily of the Valley Collection from The English Soap Company

The Indulgence Collection from Meg Hawkins

Tiny Town Soaps from Neon Magpie

Signature Tranquility Twenty Minute Candle Gift Sets from Cotton & Grey

worlds of entertainment, heritage, charity or other licensed brands.

Aardman Collection from DCUK

2026 FINALISTS

Build Your Own Matilda Book Nook from Build Your Own Kits

Fox Under the Moon Sentiment Jewellery from Joe Davies

Advent Calendar from The Carat Shop

Category sponsored by

Mr Men Little Miss Range from Rainbow Designs

Royal Horticultural Society Wall Hanging Paint by Numbers Kits from West Design Products

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notebooks, pens, pencils as well as greeting cards and giftwrappings.

2026 FINALISTS

Audiobook in a Card from Spiracle Audiobooks

The Bouquet in a Book: Spring from David & Charles

Rainbow Dachshund Markers from Kikkerland

Category sponsored by

Ink A Dopo! Collection from Designworks Collective

Sari

from

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V&A Neon Floral Stationery from Ohh Deer

Recycled

Gift Wrap

Namaste

P r e s c h o o l N e w s . n e t is the new online resource for the preschool product and retail sector. From the publishers of Progressive Preschool Magazine and the organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash will land directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry. A modern, easy to navigate website will provide a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

PreschoolNews.net is the online resource for the preschool product and retail sector. From the publishers of Progressive Preschool magazine and the organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this website and e-newsflash portal provides the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

The magazine and awards do a great job in joining the dots between toy, nursery, gift, apparel, publishing, and of course licensingand this digital offering will further enhance our position as a trade media partner that offers a tangible response to advertising investment.

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers.

With an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash lands directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry.

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers.

A modern, easy to navigate website provides a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

P r e s c h o o l N e w s .

is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

P r e s c h o o l N e w s . n e t is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

PreschoolNews.net is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL:

Jo Pilcher jop@max-publishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL

Jo Cassidy joc@max-publishing.co.uk

Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk

Brought to you by the publishers of PreschoolNews.net

EDITORIAL AND CONTENT:

Jacqui Parr jacquip@max-publishing.co.uk

EDITORIAL AND CONTENT

Samantha Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk

Sam Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk

Tessa Clayton tessac@max-publishing.co.uk

Preschoolnews.net is published by preschool sector experts…

About Hedgehog Children's Book from Eco-Able

Jumini Giftable Collection from Inside Out Toys

Fun Things To Do... Range from Pikkii

Go Genius Great Britain Family Card Game from Whiz Kid Games

The Solar System Craft Kit from Cotton Twist

Softies from Widdop and Co

CRITERIA: Funky, design-led gifts with a modern, quirky feel.

Become An Expert In Range from Pikkii

Flower Measuring Spoons from

2026 FINALISTS

Sass & Belle

Bookaroo Book (Ruck) Sack from IF

The Cardboard Vase Sleeve from IF

Zipcharger from Thinking Gifts

Retro Floral Whistling Kettle Range from Enamelhappy

CRITERIA: Products that celebrate the beauty of creativity and craftsmanship.

Colour By Numbers: Travel from Search Press

2026 FINALISTS

Crochet Emotional Support Sunﬂower from Heaven Sends

Dotwork Art Kits from Shaded Art Kits

Make Your Own Kits Range from Pikkii

Oribon Origami Plant Pots from Sting In The Tail

Pocket Crochet Kits from Gift Republic

produced to a high standard of worker welfare.

2026 FINALISTS

Cardboard Vase Sleeve Collection from IF

Self Watering Ocean Pot from POTR

JEWELLERY PRODUCT

CRITERIA: Wearable accessories and jewellery, including scarves, bags, purses and belts.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil

Diffuser Bracelets with SemiPrecious Stones from Kodes

Gem Jars Crystal Chip

Bracelets Collection from Letterbox Love

2026 FINALISTS

Embroidered Cosmetic Bags from Wrendale Designs

Mother's Day Flower Box With Sleeve from Life Charms

Fox Under the Moon Sentiment Jewellery from Joe Davies

Party Feet from Rosie Made A Thing

Good luck to all of the finalists! Look forward to seeing you in Harrogate in January 2027 at the UK’s only dedicated Christmas trade show! 10th to 13th January 2027 www.harrogatefair.com

CRITERIA: Products specifically designed around key calendar events or parties.

Santa Tracker Advent Calendar with Activity Cards from Designer Kids & Baby

2026 FINALISTS

Fold Your Own Christmas Tree from

Stitched Christmas Tree Decoration Kit from Cotton Twist

Pop-out

UK and Ireland Countries Glass Hanging Books from Heaven Sends

Category sponsored by

The Art File Tales of Christmas Puzzle Advent Calendar from Gibsons Games

Pikkii

Christmas Bauble Cards from Stormy Knight

HousewaresNews.net is the online resource for the entire housewares sector. From the publishers of Progressive Housewares, and the organisers of The Excellence in Housewares Awards, this e-newsflash portal and website delivers and is the hub of the very latest news, views and analysis from across the housewares sector – covering both supplier and retailer aspects of the trade.

Launched with an expertly qualified email subscriber base of 5201 (and rising) readers, the twice-weekly newsflash lands directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced sector. A modern, easy to navigate website provides a central resource for the trade too, offering pithy news, indepth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Housewares, and much, much more.

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and a direct connection with retail buyers for a whole calendar month.

HousewaresNews.net is published by housewares sector experts, for housewares trade experts.

To sign up for the HousewaresNews.net newsletter please visit www.HousewaresNews.net

Advertising and commercial opportunities: Jo Pilcher advertisement manager jop@max-publishing.co.uk Rob Willis publishing director robw@max-publishing.co.uk

Editorial and content opportunities: Katie Roberts Mason editor katierm@max-publishing.co.uk

make your own food and beverages.

2026 FINALISTS

London Dry Lemon Peel, Coriander & Cardamom Gin from Gin In A Tin

Arts & Crafts Food Filled Gift Tins from Elite Tins

DIY Dubai Chocolate Kit from Signiﬁcant Otter

Bread Dipper Tasting Set from Charlie & Ivy's

The Coffee & Croissant Club Truffle Tin from The Chocolate Gift Company

Feasting Kits from Spice Kitchen

19th-21st JANUARY 2027 AT OLYMPIA, LONDON

Pre-register for your FREE visitor badge at toyfair.co.uk

Pre-register for your

Establish

CRITERIA: Gifts that are games, including board games, card games, party games, jigsaws and non-traditional games.

2026 FINALISTS

The Art File Classic Games Collection from Gibsons Games

Fox Under The Moon Keepsake Jigsaws from Joe Davies

The Banana Game from Pikkii

Four In A Row from Block Design

Whirly Derby from Big Potato Games

Quick Flix Movie Trivia Game from Boxer Gifts

The pairing that always belonged together Autumn Fair and Glee come together for 2 days on 8th & 9th September 2026, creating Europe's biggest buying moment.

Scan to ﬁnd out more

The Early Bird Catches The Bookworm Bookmark Collection from IF

Seed To Sip: Home Grown Cocktails from Boxer Gifts

Flower Bookmarks from IF

Wildﬂower Grow Kits from Seedball

Terracotta Watering Spikes from Namaste

Grow Pals Grow Kits from Gift Republic

Affirmations Candle Collection from Stoneglow Candles

How are you REALLY? Check-In Cards from Flow Consulting and inclusivity.

Highland Cow Beddy Buddy from The Wheat Bag Company

Category sponsored by

2026 FINALISTS

Anxiety Toolkits from Sunshine Lane

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser Bracelets with Semi-Precious Stones from Kodes

Wellbeing Story Kits from ESSTAKids

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Storage, Assembly and Fulfilment

Order Pick, Pack, Rework

Reliable, Flexible, Accurate, Trusted

Dedicated Customer Care

Shipping UK/Worldwide

Over 60 Years’ Experience

Connection With On-line Sales Platforms

Congratulations to all finalists and winners tonight!

collectable and/or with a charitable connection.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Premium Vegan Leather Notebook and Reﬁllable Ballpoint Pen Range from Cardology

Framed Chocolate Art from ChocArtist

2026 FINALISTS

English Heritage Legends Castle from Playpress Toys

National Trust Collection from Gibsons Games

Picturemaps’ Inventors & Scientists Collection from Mclaggan + Co

Christmas At Blenheim Palace Collection By Jessica Hogarth from Temple Island Collection

AT

THE

HEART OF THE GIFT TRADE FOR OVER 30 YEARS…

Progressive Gifts & Home (PG&H) is the cutting edge, industry ‘must read’, the most respected and trusted print and online trade title that continues to be at the very heart of the gift trade.

While the team behind the magazine have a wealth of in-depth experience in the gift sector, they continue to look at the industry with fresh eyes, fast o the mark to spot new trends, as well as making contact with today new breed of emerging retailers.

All of this means that we really understand your product, the mark and how to help you reach retailers, everything that we, as a magazine, stand for.

PRODUCT

CRITERIA: Gift products that bring scent into the home or car, such as candles, reed diffusers, oils and melts.

Back To Basics Collection from FYG

2026 FINALISTS

Classic Cocktail Collection from The Tipsy Candle Co

Car Diffusers from Rosy Roo

Carnival Collection from Zesty Lemons London

Paddywax Cherie Collection from Designworks Collective

Paddywax Bistro Collection from Designworks Collective

ON THE LOVELIEST GIFT IDEAS

The Gift Awards celebrate the creative diversity of gifting every year. We’d like to congratulate all the finalists on their outstanding products –and are excited to welcome the industry to Ambiente from 29 January to 2 February 2027. Discover the international variety of gift items for every occasion, emotion, and lifestyle in the Giving area.

THE NEXT MOVE IN LIFESTYLE

ambiente.messefrankfurt.com

2026 FINALISTS

Aperitivo Spritz Collection from Rex London

Flower Measuring Spoons from Sass & Belle

Cocktail Recipe Straws from Gift Republic

Flat-Pack Self-Watering Plant Pot from POTR

Retro Floral Whistling Kettle Range from Enamelhappy

I'm A Password Book (In Disguise) from IF

The Dragonﬂy Range Botanical Cast Fragrance Diffusers from The

Car Diffusers Collection from Rosy Roo

The Mini Matchbox Cross Stitch Kit Range from The Crafty Kit Company

Coastal Blankets Collection from Creek Lifestyle

The Silk Heritage Collection from Art on Scarves

National Trust for Scotland Tails Of Scotland Dogwear from Wag & Wool

and crafted in the UK.

Foxglove Tree

CRITERIA: Gifts that have a technical or gadgety feel to them as well as those with a touch of silliness (or naughtiness) and fun.

2026 FINALISTS

The Mini Matchbox Cross Stitch Kit Range from The Crafty Kit Company

Super Micro Keychain Gamer from Blaze Entertainment

The Retro Gaming Collection from Fizz Creations

Zipcharger from Thinking Gifts Company

Ripe ’N' Ready Stress Banana from Bubblegum Stuff

Tidy Tech Pen by WITH Creative from Kikkerland Europe

CRITERIA: Any pet-related gift, such as accessories, toys, food or bath product.

2026 FINALISTS

Category sponsored by

Dog Birthday Cake Kit from Four-Legged Fancies

National Trust for Scotland Tails of Scotland Dogwear from Wag & Wool

Dog Travel Bowls from The Little Dog Laughed

Pet Perch from Jacwicks Designs

Personalised Dog Bone Pillow from Designer Kids & Baby

Kiko Catnip Bubbles from Kikkerland Europe

Sara Miller London Dapper Dogs Collection from EliteTins

Retail’s ultimate summer buyer’s festival

20,000+ products

6,000+ buyers

500+ exhibitors

4 days of sourcing

2026

Which product will win the Judges’ Choice this year?

2023

Flat Paper Pens from IF

SOME PREVIOUS WINNERS

2025

The Bouquet in a Book from David & Charles

2022

The Plantable Children’s Book from Willsow

2024

2021

Filthy Gorgeous Soaps from Go La La

Choccy Cards from Rosie Made A Thing

Fabulously

Congratulations to the winner of the

Outstanding Achievement Award

individuals who have contributed greatly to the sector, either as a retailer, supplier or trade services provider.

WHO WILL BE THIS YEAR’S HERO?

Winner 2021

Bob Illingworth, former chairman, Widdop & Co. (awarded posthumously)

Winner 2016

Andrew Illingworth, former sales director of Widdop & Co.

Category sponsored by

PREVIOUS WINNERS

Winner 2025

Mike Winch, founder of Candlelight

Winner 2020

Will Gatacre, co-founder and former md of Jellycat

Winner 2015

Mike Burgess, former md of Parlane

Winner 2024

Hannah Dale, founder and creative director, Wrendale Designs

Winner 2019

Henri Davis, independent retail advisor and former buyer

Winner 2014

Ken Johnson, former md of Enesco Europe

Winner 2023

Clare Harris, founder and md of Talking Tables

Winner 2018

John Athwal OBE, founder and md of Premier Decorations

Winner 2013

Gisela Graham, founder and md of Gisela Graham

Winner 2022

Ronnie Pavey, chairman of Lesser & Pavey

Winner 2017

David Hicks, former md of Really Good/Soul (now deceased)

Winner 2012

Oliver Tress, founder and md of Oliver Bonas

Winner 2011

Martin, Sam and Julian Rayner (Martin Rayner pictured), director of Lakeland

SPECIALIST BUSINESS MAGAZINES

SO WHO’S SITTING WHERE?

THE GIFT AWARDS EVENT BRINGS TOGETHER TWO ESTABLISHED AND REVERED AWARDS PROGRAMMES TO RECOGNISE AND REWARD PRODUCTS AND RETAILING IN THE GIFTS ARENA.

THE GIFT OF THE YEAR AWARDS ARE PRODUCT AWARDS OWNED BY THE GIFTWARE ASSOCIATION WHILE THE GREATS ARE GIFT RETAILER AWARDS THAT ARE OWNED BY MAX PUBLISHING, PUBLISHERS OF PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME/GIFTSANDHOME.NET.

“YESTERDAY'S THE PAST, TOMORROW'S THE FUTURE, BUT TODAY IS A GIFT. THAT'S WHY IT'S CALLED THE PRESENT” BILKEANE

THE GIFT AWARDS EVENT IS ORGANISED BY MAX PUBLISHING IN CONJUNCTION WITH CLARE HOLLICK, OWNER OF CREATEVENTS.

MAX PUBLISHING UNITED HOUSE NORTH ROAD LONDON N7 9DP T: 020 7700 6740