Giftguide January 2018

JANUARY 2018

for home & lifestyle retailers. Est.1975

ETHICAL RETAILING A marketplace for retailers with a conscience

Meet the newest gia Australia Award winner How JOCO Cups is making a difference Proudly supported by the Australian Gift & Homewares Association - the Voice of the Industry

MELBOURNE REED GIFT FAIR - Stand J136 & J137

SYDNEY REED GIFT FAIR - Stand F46 & F47

Sat 3rd – Tue 6th February 2018 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Sat 24th – Wed 28th February 2018 Sydney Exhibition Centre

It’s never too early to make a lifelong friend

Popular Licensed Friends

Jasnor (Australia) Pty Ltd. 1300 881 940

sales@jasnor.com

www.jasnor.com.au

facebook.com/jasnorAUS

from the editor

Giftguide is published by

THE INTERMEDIA GROUP PTY LTD ABN 94 002 583 682 41 Bridge Rd Glebe NSW 2037 Australia Ph: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Simon Grover PUBLISHER: Mark Kuban EDITOR: Marion Gerritsen Email: marion@intermedia.com.au JOURNALIST: Ruth Cooper NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER: Carolyne Gowan GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Leanne Hogbin, Chris Papaspiros PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper HEAD OF CIRCULATION: Chris Blacklock Print Post Approved Publication No. PP 250003/01405 ISSN 0312-5327 DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws.

Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages.

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H

ere at Giftguide we like to keep up with the trends, and there are some interesting things happening in the industry. On one hand, technology has infiltrated most aspects of our lives including our homes. The Internet of Things and the evolution of the Smart Home have really taken off, especially in the US, and on page 40 we catch up with US expert Mike Wolf, who will tell us what the future holds and what is currently happening in the smart world.

On the other hand we have gone back to natural materials, the simpler things in life and we want products that are free of chemicals, made sustainably and friendly to the environment. JOCO Cups founder Matt Colegate launched his sustainable answer to the growing global epidemic of disposable coffee cup waste and plastics in the ocean, after seeing the impact of this waste firsthand. You can read his story on page 32.

When Byron Bay based Ainsley Schumacher launched her one-stop-shop ethical marketplace, she wanted to create a community of like-minded people who are passionate about ethical and sustainable shopping. After two years of research and development, she knew consumers and businesses were ready for an ethical online marketplace. You can read more on page 48.

Our cover story is all about Lisa Pollock, who has come from humble beginnings to turn her brand into a local success. On page 24 we catch up with the woman who lives by her daily mantra of believing in your dreams and never, ever giving up.

We have picked the gia Australia winner, this time it’s iconic Sydney retailer Opus Design that will be representing Australia at the gia awards in Chicago in March. Congratulations to Chris Tourgelis and we wish him all the best. Read more about this store on page 62.

Check out our retailer profiles including Minimax on page 44, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary with its Toorak flagship store having undergone a major revamp to coincide with the birthday celebrations. Online retailer NoteMaker has also gone through some changes including a name change to Milligram, and has ventured offline to open its first bricks and mortar store. Read more on page 60. Homing Instincts was born after founder Jennie Lane struggled to find anything that excited her and, spotting a gap in the market for a shop selling quirky gifts, she launched her store in 2010 along the Yarra River.

Read her story on page 56.

The second half of 2017 was an exciting year for trade fairs as we visited Maison&Objet Paris, NY NOW in New York, the Delhi IHGF fair and the Mega Show in Hong Kong. This issue will have trade fair reports as well as previews for some shows in early 2018.

Don’t miss our product selections starting on page 68, with our seasonal feature this issue being Mother’s Day.

Marion Gerritsen, EDITOR

contents

FEATURES

62 gia awards meet this year’s gia Australia winner Opus Design

11 AGHA 8-page section with news and information for all members

64 wrap-up NY NOW Summer gift fair

24 cover story how Lisa Pollock’s dream became a reality

66 wrap-up trends spotted at Maison&Objet Paris

28 trends the colours for 2018 32 sustainability JOCO’s

PRODUCTS

sustainable answer to waste

44

68 accessories & jewellery 36 trade fair report what’s trending at the IHGF Delhi Fair

72 baby & child

40 smart living the future of the

80 bed & bath

smart home

82 home & living 42 wholesaler profile a new wave in retailing with Koh Living

86 kitchen & dining

44 retailer profile Minimax celebrates anniversary with events and a relaunch

92 outdoor & pet 94 mother’s day

48 ethical retailing online one-stop-

56

shop marketplace Known Effects

REGULARS

50 trade fair report the latest trends from the Hong Kong Mega Show

8 news

56 retailer profile Melbourne store

10 trade fair news

Homing Instincts

98 trade fair diary 58 preview what to expect at Ambiente this year

58

42

98 advertisers index

60 retailer profile a new name and a fresh new vision for NoteMaker

OUR COVER This issue’s cover features the latest Mother’s Day collection by Lisa Pollock.

Lisa Pollock, 07 5576 2369, online@ lisapollock.com.au, www.lisapollock. com.au, facebook.com/LisaPollock.

ArtFromTheHeart, instagram.com/ lisapollockartist

ABOUT OUR PRICES

24 6 giftguideonline.com.au

In all product stories, prices are expressed as either wholesale before GST or recommended retail including GST, unless otherwise stated.

news & reviews

AUSSIE BRANDS LOUVELLE & GRATITUDE GLASS JARS MAKE OPRAH’S FAVOURITES LIST We all know that when Oprah Winfrey likes something and promotes it through her TV show, website or magazine, that product is going to do very well.

So when Simone Taylor of Australian brand Louvelle was told she had made it onto Oprah’s Favourite Things List 2017, she knew things were about to change.

Louvelle was one of four Australian brands that made the list including Orbitcard, Emu Australia and the Gratitude Glass Jar. Claire Summers, the woman behind the Gratitude Glass Jar concept says it was amazing to be picked by Oprah. “I was invited as a guest to the big reveal and she shared me as her favourite, I was the only one brought up to speak because of my story,” she explains.

“I was the number one selling product on Amazon that day and sales have just continued to go crazy.”

HEAVEN IN EARTH TO DEBUT IN THE US THIS YEAR

AUSSIE BRAND QUEEN B LAUNCHES BEESWAX WRAPS Beeswax candle company Queen B has just launched a range of beeswax wraps.

“Every other brand we’ve tested has made wraps that are too brittle,” says owner Cate Burton. “We have chosen stunning fabrics and, as with everything from Queen B, they are beautifully presented...”

The wraps are made from fabric coated in a beeswax, tree resin and organic coconut oil mix— the beeswax for longevity, waterproofing and preserving things, while tree resin is anti-bacterial and the organic coconut oil is for flexibility.

The response has been huge says Burton, with many retailers already reordering.

“Consumers are looking for solutions so they aren’t contributing to the problem and forward thinking, clever retailers are providing those solutions to them... The response has been bigger than we could have ever anticipated.” queenb.com.au 8 giftguideonline.com.au

In an effort to expand its business abroad, Heaven in Earth is launching at a gift fair in New York in February this year.

“We [will] launch at NY NOW but are also exhibiting at Expo West, an eco trade show in California in March as our items are made from FSC wood and many are made from plant material and manufactured responsibly and fair trade,” says co-founder Jocelyn van Hoven.

“For our brand, NY NOW is the best platform, especially if we are not represented by an agency.

We wanted to do two NY shows and their financial year correlates with the calendar year. It is a huge month for us going from New York to Life Instyle Sydney and to California Expo West.”

To keep up with demand and to ensure they can give their clients the best possible service, Heaven in Earth has also introduced a designated trade and retail site specifically for the US and Canada. www.heaveninearth.com.au

SUNNYLIFE AUSTRALIA LAUNCHES SUNNYKIDS CHILDREN’S RANGE Popular wholesaler Sunnylife Australia has launched a new children’s range, putting its colourful, fun-loving spin on everything from kids’ plates to backpacks.

Sunnykids was 12 months in the making and includes mealtime, bathtime and party items along with games, instruments and beach and pool floats in the familiar quirky Sunnylife style.

The debut range focuses on four themes— wonderland, fruit salad, under the sea and sweet tooth—and managing director Barry Glick says the inspiration behind the products was simply to put smiles on kids’ faces.

“We looked at introducing new concepts as well as reinventing existing product formats on the market and thought, ‘How can we sunny-fy this item? How can we make it fun and enjoyable for the consumer and the gift giver?’” he explains. www.sunnylife.com.au

trade fair news

TENDENCE 2018: A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR THE TRADE Retailers will find striking ideas with wow factor at Tendence in Frankfurt am Main from 30 June to 3 July 2018. Tendence offers the trade a great experience and value add thanks to special areas such as Tendence.Impulse, Outdoor Living and the Tendence Academy.

Next season, Tendence will not only present the latest winter and Christmas trends for furnishing, living and giving, but also give the high-volume, international trade an opportunity to place orders in time for spring and summer.

However, Tendence is more than just an order fair—it is a source of information. “The quality of the special presentations at Tendence is very high and, via special exhibition areas and a wide-ranging complementary program of events, we aim to show small to medium-sized retailers how to position products strategically and to turn shopping into an exciting experience,” says Philipp Ferger, group show director, Tendence. tendence.messefrankfurt.com

SHOWROOMISATION TAKES OVER MAISON&OBJET

WORLD OF TOYS PAVILION HONG KONG FULLY BOOKED

Since September 2016, the three trend consultants of the Maison&Objet Observatory have taken turns designing the Inspirations Forum to bring the edition’s concept to life.

In January 2018, it is Agence NellyRodi’s turn to design the Inspirations Space and the Bookshop-Café based on the concept Showroom. The concept emerged as part of the investigative work conducted by NellyRodi’s team of consultants.

“The financial crisis and the digital revolution have had a tremendous impact on our behaviours,” says Vincent Gregoire of Agence NellyRodi.

“With the advent of Instagram, consumers are becoming trendsetters themselves. This is what we have called the showroomisation trend: it is no longer the product that makes the consumer, but the consumer that makes the product.” www.maison-objet.com

The international World of Toys Pavilion by Spielwarenmesse at the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair is as popular as ever. Thirty companies from 13 nations are exhibiting at the pavilion, which opens together with the international trade fair at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 8 to 11 January 2018.

“The consistently high interest in our pavilion shows that it is seen as a doorway to the Far Eastern market and as an important step towards greater internationalisation,” Ernst Kick, CEO of Spielwarenmesse, explains.

In organising the pavilion, Spielwarenmesse supports its exhibitors and are looked after throughout the fair with services including the organisational aspects of participating in the show as well as marketing services. event.hktdc.com/fair/hktoyfair-en

10 giftguideonline.com.au

HEIMTEXTIL 2018: LOTS OF READY-MADE PRODUCTS Heimtextil (9 to 12 January 2018) in Frankfurt am Main will sparkle with a wide range of finished products. In Halls 8 to 11, wholesalers, online retailers, boutique operators and buyers will find a wide selection of ready-made products.

“Almost 1,500 international manufacturers will present their new collections from the bed, bath and table segments on nine hall levels,” says Meike Kern, director Heimtextil/Messe Frankfurt.

“This means Heimtextil now offers the world’s largest selection of bed linen, mattresses, bathroom textiles and table and kitchen linen.”

Further, the number of exhibitors that include textiles for animals in their portfolio has grown steadily. Heimtextil is meeting this growing interest for the first time in January by providing an area for textiles and accessories for animals in Galleria 0. www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

INSIGHTS FROM YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

As the peak industry body, the Australian Gift & Homewares Association (AGHA) has connected businesses in these sectors for over 40 years.

AGHA achieved significant success in 2017 with two huge AGHA Gift Fairs, indicating that our approach to delivering uncompromised value and benefits is stronger than ever before. We continue this momentum moving into the new retail buying season along with exciting plans for the future, including several new exhibitions.

The AGHA Sydney Gift Fair in February 2018 is now visible on the horizon. This important industry event will be the marketplace to source big brands, premium products and new season ranges at a pivotal time in the retail buying calendar.

Centrally located in Sydney’s retail heartland at Sydney Olympic Park, hundreds of exhibitors will display thousands of products designed to help your business achieve a competitive advantage and kickstart the new retail season.

Don’t forget, if you would like to join the only Gift & Homewares Association in Australia, visit agha.com.au/membership or call 1300 441 384 to talk to one of our friendly team.

I look forward to greeting you all in February at the AGHA Sydney Gift Fair.

Welcome from AGHA

1

AGHA Member Spotlight HoneyBee Toys

2

AGHA Business Partner Network

4

Austbrokers ABS Insurance Cover

6

AGHA Retailer Member Benefits

7

Design Life Sydney

8

New Season Ranges

10

Sydney Gift Fair Highlights

12

UPCOMING AGHA GIFT FAIRS

24-27 FEB 2018

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Looking ahead to August, I am delighted to announce that the next AGHA Melbourne Gift Fair is to take place under one roof following a massive expansion and redevelopment of the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, costing over $200 million. This timely consolidation of our exhibitors will provide a more convenient and effective buying experience for all retailers.

CONTENTS

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

WELCOME FROM AGHA

sydneygift.com.au

SYDNEY SHOWGROUND SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK

Wayne Castle, CEO Australian Gift & Homewares Association

4-8 AUG 2018

melbournegift.com.au MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT HoneyBee Toys AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

AGHA Wholesaler Member HoneyBee Toys is a specialist provider of organic wooden toys designed with educational and imaginary play in mind.

Here, AGHA turns the spotlight onto the family-owned business about how the ecofriendly and diverse range of toys enthrals both children and adults alike, and what makes their products special.

When did the HoneyBee Toys story begin and how?

HoneyBee Toys began nearly 20 years ago when our first daughter was born. We wanted to nourish the magical side of childhood and for her early years to be a time of wonder and exploration. We sought out beautiful wooden toys, but they were almost impossible to find in Australia back then. That’s how we discovered European toy makers, and from there it became our passion to share the beauty and quality of those toys with others.

Why did you choose to focus on baby and children’s toys?

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

We have a love affair with handmade, wooden toys. Children learn through discovering what is around them and through their senses. They play very differently when provided with simple, well-made natural toys. We are passionate about providing children with toys that will allow their own imagination and creativity to flourish.

“AGHA Gift Fairs has such a fine reputation as the place to be.”

“We are proud to be part of an Association and an industry that brings such a diverse and beautiful range of products to the Australian public.”

Absolutely. We represent 16 of the world’s best wooden toy makers, and have the largest selection of Europeanmade wooden toys available in Australia. Our toys are made using traditional methods, sustainable timbers and non-toxic, natural finishes. Our customers know they can come to us for the finest quality toys with exceptional play value. The very first time we exhibited at a trade fair, a buyer burst into tears on our stand, saying this is what she has been looking for all her life. That was quite special.

What is your personal favourite piece from your range?

It’s hard to go past the Grimm’s rainbow, but at the moment it’s the new Wobbel balance board. It assists children to find their balance and keep active, but it’s also the basis of imaginative play – it can be a bridge, a cave, a step, a building platform or a cradle…but it’s not just for kids and we love that. It is safety tested to a whopping 200kg, so it’s suitable for adults too, who can use it for yoga, core strength training, stretching and rehabilitation and it looks so stylish. What’s not to love?

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

Many of your products are based around traditional play.

Do your customers generally seek you out for this style of product?

What attracted you to exhibiting at AGHA Gift Fairs?

What does it mean to you to be a Member of the AGHA? We are proud to be part of an Association and an industry that brings such a diverse and beautiful range of products to the Australian public. It’s more than an industry, it’s a community and we’ve met many like-minded people and even made a few friends.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

AGHA Gift Fairs has such a fine reputation as the place to be. We wanted to showcase our beautiful products in an environment where we could meet like-minded customers that shared our core values and love of wooden toys and children’s play, whether that be a toy store, boutique, an eco-store, a book shop or whoever. We love that we can share with such a diverse range of businesses at AGHA Gift Fairs.

Meet HoneyBee Toys at the upcoming AGHA Sydney Gift Fair 24-27 February 2018. Visit sydneygift.com.au for more information.

To learn more about exhibiting at AGHA Gift Fairs or about becoming an AGHA Member, contact the AGHA team on 1300 441 384 or membership@agha.com.au.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

AGHA BUSINESS PARTNER NETWORK Supporting Small Business Growth As part of our value proposition to Members, AGHA has established a network of top-tier business partners offering extensive savings to our Members that are often reserved for bigger organisations.

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

Offering a valuable opportunity for retailers of all sizes to reduce costs on a range of everyday retail and business services, this network of industry experts makes it easier to find a range of banking, insurance, freight and business solutions that are right for your business.

Read on below to meet with three key AGHA Business Partners and discover more about how their helpful services can benefit your business today.

AUSTBROKERS ABS YOUR BUSINESS INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS

Austbrokers ABS is a long-standing Business Partner of AGHA and we take pride in offering tailored risk management and insurance solutions to AGHA Members.

At Austbrokers ABS we recognise that all of our clients’ business operations are unique with individual requirements according to scale, location and industry.

With over 20 years’ experience in providing insurance to the giftware industry, Austbrokers ABS consists of a team of qualified, experienced and reputable insurance brokers, who specialise in a wide range of services and products.

Available services to AGHA Members include an obligation-free review of your current insurance policy and premium estimate, a tailored and exclusive insurance program, and ongoing access to the dedicated claims and insurance teams at Austbrokers ABS, amongst many other services.

AGHA Members can contact agha@austbrokers.com.au or call 1300 441 384 for more information

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

OFX THE SMARTER ALTERNATIVE FOR GLOBAL MONEY TRANSFERS

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

Focused on assisting individuals and business customers, OFX international payment service is safe, simple to use and provides significant cost savings on transfers in 55 currencies.

Most major banks traditionally take a wider margin, sometimes up to 5% on the daily exchange rate. OFX have built a global business around giving our clients a better deal. We leverage a network of 115 bank accounts worldwide to keep rates as low as possible, and your money may not even need to leave the country - OFX pay your recipient from their funds in the destination country.

It also means we can stay open during times of high currency volatility and allows us to process your transfer 24/7, 363 days a year – even when the banks are closed.

AGHA Members have access to these great rates, as well as a wide range of tools and resources, including a proprietary online platform and automated processes service, that allows you to operate with maximum efficiency when it comes to foreign exchange.

AGHA Members can call 1300 441 384 for more information.

WORKFORCE GUARDIAN GET FREE ANSWERS TO ALL YOUR HR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW QUESTIONS

•

Modern award coverage

•

Minimum rates of pay

•

National Employment Standards (NES)

•

Dismissals and redundancies

•

And much more

With everything employers need to achieve bestpractice HR management and full-compliance with Australian employment laws, the software keeps businesses up to date, with mix and match modules, so you only pay for what you need.

Used correctly, Workforce Guardian can help employers save time and money, prevent big fines and penalties, avoid expensive employee claims and maximise workforce productivity.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Workforce Guardian can answer all your HR and Fair Work-related questions. Our experts routinely answer questions about:

AGHA Members can call 1300 441 394 to talk to one of our friendly team.

AGHA Members receive a 25% rebate on Australia’s #1 HR Compliance System. Just for being an AGHA Member. The offer includes any annual subscription to HR Lite, HR Essential or HR Professional.

To learn more about these Business Partners and other valuable Member benefits, contact the membership team on 1300 441 384 or membership@agha.com.au.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

DESIGN LIFE SYDNEY Exclusive to AGHA Sydney Gift Fair AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

Hosting a carefully curated edit of market leading brands and inspirational suppliers, Design Life Sydney is a must-see buying destination for every retail buyer seeking Australia’s most coveted new season stock.

Paired with a luxurious bar in The Dome at Sydney Gift Fair, expect to find the very latest international design practice and a unique portfolio of inspirational brands.

SOHUM

STAND: DY16

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

FLAIR GIFTS & HOME STAND: DZ13

INDUS DESIGN STAND: DT10

DARLIN (AUST)

STAND: DK24

STAND: DY9 & DZ9

STAND: DU24

CARNIVAL HOMEWARES STAND: DJ17

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

CONCEPT JAPAN

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

HOLIDAY TRADING & CO

To discover these exhibitors and more, register to attend the AGHA Sydney Gift Fair, 24-27 February 2018 sydneygift.com.au

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

MUST-HAVE NEW SEASON RANGES Looking for innovative products and fresh ideas?

In 2018, AGHA Sydney Gift Fair will welcome a cohort of new exhibitors to the trade floor at Sydney Showground, displaying hundreds of fresh and exciting products for the first time ever.

1

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

The Launch Pad is where Australian start-up ventures realise their vision of building a great business.

There’s plenty to gain by visiting this space, beginning with unprecedented access to innovative products that are normally hard to source and cutting-edge designs, all in one location.

Find a huge selection of never-before-seen ranges entering the Australian market in The Launch Pad together with unique products and brands to help build a store inventory that is assured to boost sales.

Below, we introduce a taste of what’s to come this February, with plenty of additional new and exciting exhibitors soon to be announced.

NEW

1

NEW NEW

2

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

MUST-SEE PRODUCTS

5

3

THE LAUNCH PAD

NEW 4 1. Calico Cottage Fudge Systems Stand 2L20 | 2. Wax Obsession Stand 2R6 | 3. Guyedy Hydrosols Stand 4D15 | 4. Keycraft Stand 3Y18 | 5. Dambeck Stand 3G15 | 6. Oleria Emporium Stand 4E18 | 7. Anni Mac Jewellery Stand 4K15 | 8. The Luminaire Collective Stand 3X3 | 9. Cool Clutch Stand 4K18 | 10. Mooyee Stand 3R8 | 11. My Lily Earth Stand 4E17 |

6 THE LAUNCH PAD

NEW

THE LAUNCH PAD

7 THE LAUNCH PAD 9

INSPIRATIONAL BRANDS

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

THE LAUNCH PAD

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

8

11 NEW 10

To discover these exhibitors and more, register to attend the AGHA Sydney Gift Fair, 24-27 February 2018 sydneygift.com.au DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

SYDNEY GIFT FAIR HIGHLIGHTS Exclusive to AGHA Recognised as an important industry event, AGHA Sydney Gift Fair will be the marketplace to source big brands, premium products and new season ranges.

AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION

Centrally located in Sydney’s retail heartland at Sydney Olympic Park, there is plenty to look forward to, including exciting new exhibitors, Design Life Sydney and The Launch Pad. Here we highlight the mustsee hotspots to visit at your industry event.

NEW EXHIBITORS

Design Life Sydney is a mustsee destination for every retail buyer seeking a carefully edited selection of premium brands. Find the very latest international design trends and high-end ranges within an inspiring environment inside The Dome.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

MEMBERSHIP STAND

New Exhibitors are identified with distinctive ‘new’ labels in the AGHA Exhibition Directory, allowing you to clearly see the very latest brands.

With over 300+ exhibitor displays, keep an eye out for these markers as an innovative solution to finding exciting and original brands.

EXCLUSIVE FAIR OFFERS

Be guided directly to Exclusive Fair Offers by a series of signs printed on the floor, and in the Buyers Guide providing a great way to keep track of which exhibitors are extending valuable discounts and deals. Look out for these and bag yourself a bargain.

The Launch Pad is where Australian start-up ventures realise their vision of building a great business. There’s plenty to gain by visiting this space, beginning with unprecedented access to innovative products that are normally hard to source and cutting-edge designs, all in one location.

AGHA VIP BUYERS CLUB

FOOD TRUCK ALLEY Our friendly team will be on hand at the Membership Stand during the Sydney Gift Fair to answer all your questions and explain the benefits of AGHA membership, which includes full access to exclusive offers from our network of Business Partners and the opportunity to grow your business.

Register now to attend the AGHA Sydney Gift Fair, 24-27 February 2018. sydneygift.com.au

Take a break from shopping to taste a range of delicious delights and refreshments on offer at Food Truck Alley, conveniently located in the halls at Sydney Gift Fair.

AGHA Retailer Members and VIP’s are invited to take a break from the buzz of the trade floor in the exclusive AGHA VIP Buyers Club. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and freshly brewed coffee within a private setting.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT AGHA MEMBERSHIP TODAY - AGHA.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP

24  giftguideonline.com.au

cover story

Hand Crafted Oil Painting with 3dimensional Pompom & Feather detailing

Starting in a garage, Lisa Pollock has come from humble beginnings to turn her brand into a local success. We catch up with the woman who lives by her daily mantra of believing in your dreams and never, ever giving up.

W

hen was Lisa Pollock – Art from the Heart launched?

The ‘DREAM’ that is the Lisa Pollock brand was created 14 years ago from humble beginnings in our little garage. It was the first step on an incredible journey— following my dreams, trusting my inner voice and totally backing myself.

What challenges did you face trying to get your business up and running?

Mmmm… where do I start?! From bursting out of our little garage and using our lounge room as our despatch centre for 12 months, many crazy late nights to the stage of needing to really invest a lot financially, it was all a bit of a whirlwind and quite scary.

But aside from this, the biggest challenge for me was on a personal level. Each artwork is created from my heart, it’s like putting a little piece of ‘me’ out there every time. It was a massive step to face my fears and not listen to that little voice of self-doubt that we all have and do it anyway.

What inspires you when creating and designing products?

My inspiration comes from my love of nature and life itself. My studio looks out over our tranquil little creek in a beautiful rainforest setting. Many ideas have come to me while sitting in this stillness. But on the flipside, I also do a lot of crazy barefoot dancing around my studio to get the creative energy flowing—I’m a true believer in having fun and just letting it all flow.

What makes your products different and unique?

All my ranges are originally hand painted and these images are applied to our unique products. Nothing is generic, picked off a shelf, or taken from stock libraries. It’s all heart and soul stuff. There is so much time and research that goes into the creative process before paint even hits canvas. I strive to create a point of difference and I think this is what makes our brand so unique.

How has the market changed since you first launched?

Nowadays the market is just evolving so fast. Social media has had a huge impact on the industry. It’s such a great way to share images of new ranges. Customers have such great opportunities to purchase—it’s easier than ever before.

January 2018 25

What philosophy do you apply to managing the company?

I believe I have created a very unique culture within our business. It’s like a big family environment and I am surrounded by a very talented tribe who each bring their own unique gifts to our world and so believe in the brand.

I often have moments of overwhelming gratitude. Our world’s pretty awesome! My managing style certainly doesn’t fit the ‘normal’ mould and I’m sure the girls could strangle me some days, but it all seems to work.

What do you believe is essential to be successful in business?

It’s all about believing in your dreams and never, ever giving up—this is my daily mantra. Also, surrounding yourself with an incredible tribe who see the big dream and are willing to walk that journey with you.

What is the best advice you have been given in life?

Spend as much time on your business as in it, which is easier said than done.

Are there any people that you admire and take inspiration from?

I really admire my dad. He works in the business and in the sometimes craziness of our world has brought such a calm presence and he is always a sounding board for me.

I’m proud to have had the opportunity to work beside him and learn from him.

All artwork is created from my heart in the beautiful setting of our tranquil rainforest within the Gold Coast Hinterland in the hope that in some small way it may inspire others to dream big and never, ever give up!

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cover story

What have been your greatest highlights and challenges untill now?

Having one of my products—that I collaborated on with the empowering YMAG—being chosen to go into the Golden Globe Goodies bag (yes, Hollywood!) and also being chosen to go into Ellen DeGeneres’s 60th birthday gift box (ok officially pinching myself!).

What kind of retailer stocks your products?

All kinds! We supply a huge range of newsagents and pharmacies with our smaller pieces that are ideal grab’n’go gifts, plus we also have the Lisa Pollock brand in specialist stores who love to use our whole range in their window and shop displays. Our big wall canvases, cushions and throw rugs look great everywhere.

What are your future plans for the business?

My dreamboard has been in overdrive, everything is possible! Firstly, 2018 brings an exciting collaboration with local publishers Henderson Greetings and Waterlyn. It has always been a dream of mine to design an affirmation card range featuring art from my heart. I’m so proud to be partnering with another business that really understands my dream and believes in the Lisa Pollock brand. ◆ Lisa Pollock is exhibiting at Reed Gifts Fairs in Sydney, Stand P10. www.lisapollock.com.au January 2018 27

Pretty in pink

We are going back to the 80s with these 2018 colour trends.

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trends

Photographer: Lisa Cohen

Styled by Bree Leech.

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f you are an 80s child you will love the colour palettes for this summer as they are dipping into the retro vibe of those years while adding a touch of luxury and glamour.

While individuality and personal expression will be key, Dulux colour trends contributor and owner of homewares store Jumbled, Pip Brett, says this palette is pure happiness.

“It’s about creating that holiday feeling all-year-round,” she explains. “It has a retro 1970s and 1980s vibe, while still managing to be thoroughly modern.”

One of Dulux Balance’s main palettes is Escapade, which combines playful, tropical colours such as pale mint and soft pink. Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux colour expert, adds this is a quite a departure from the cocooning neutrals and deeper tones of last year.

“This season’s colours are all about balancing the different parts of ourselves—our passion for our homes, our lust for adventure, our love of retro glamour, and fascination with technology,” she says.

“Summer will be filled with palm prints, positive vibes and visual delights. Incorporating uplifting colour and prints in a white space can be transformative, lifting the soul and making you feel more dynamic and creative.”

If you’re hesitant to dip into colour, fear not: even small doses can have a huge impact.

Create fun, eye-catching accents in unexpected places such as doors, the inside edge of the wall or door frame, along a staircase or add an element of surprise to a storage nook, says Lucena-Orr.

January 2018 29

trends

Pip Brett’s styling tips • Declutter your interiors so that furniture and accessories have plenty of room to breathe • Seek out retro furniture with organic shapes and simple lines • Add in plenty of luxe textures—think soft furnishings and accessories in sumptuous velvet, silk and sheepskin • Introduce bright artworks that pick up on this season’s bold, tropical hues • Touches of gold will add a glam feel • Don’t forget greenery—indoor palms and ferns will bring a botanical inspired interior to life and help you create a happier, healthier space whether it’s a home, office or store

“Complete the look by painting one or two smaller pieces of furniture in the same striking hue, and then add in tonal accessories, such as coloured glassware, bold artworks, patterned cushions and bedlinen. For the rest of the walls choose a cool white— our hugely popular Lexicon Quarter is the perfect pairing.”

For a richer and more decadent look, Cuticle Pink combined with the deeper pink Carmen and Solution, a mid-base blue is a colour combination that would work well in summer and winter, adds Brett.

“To really make the combination pop, you could then add in splashes of mustard in soft furnishings and artwork.”

Just remember colour is nothing to be afraid of, says Lucena-Orr. “Introducing new schemes can invigorate a space—making you more positive and productive. And the beautiful thing about paint is that if you decide on a new colour down the track, you can simply paint over it.” ◆

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sustainability

War onwaste

There are a lot of reusable alternatives out there, but JOCO is unique in both the materials it uses and the superior engineering of the cups. We catch up with the man behind this innovative concept.

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OCO cups, launched in 2011, is founder Matt Colegate’s sustainable answer to the growing global epidemic of disposable coffee cup waste and plastics in the ocean.

After seeing the impact of this waste firsthand while riding waves in Victoria, he couldn’t ignore the shocking reality that over 500 billion disposable paper, styrofoam, and single-use plastic cups are thrown away worldwide each year, and over eight million tonnes of plastic ends up in the ocean.

Colegate found the health risk that plastics were creating for both people and the planet was overwhelming. With a deep appreciation for the environment, health and wellbeing, and a love of a good coffee, JOCO was born—the original glass reusable coffee cup, an eco-innovative solution to experiencing life’s luxuries without the harmful impact on our environment and our health.

“The JOCO brand was first conceived in 2009, out of personal protest to the huge amount of disposable waste and plastic waste that was being created by our daily lives,” explains Colegate.

“Being a lifelong surfer and outdoor enthusiast, I gained a great appreciation for the environment and my personal health. I was also exposed first hand to the critical impact that disposable waste and plastic is having on this amazing world of ours.

“Witnessing the sheer abundance of disposable coffee cups, and plastic lined coffee cups that were filling the bins two to three times a day, it was something I could not steer past, and I set out to make a personal change�in 2012, the original glass reusable eco-cup, JOCO cup, was born.”

Having a light-bulb moment and being passionate about a concept doesn’t automatically mean you will succeed. No matter how good your idea is, starting a business always comes with its challenges.

“The inception of our business was quite simple: to reduce the number of disposable coffee cups and refuse plastic, but it actually took two years of product development and

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sustainability

market research to finally bring a truly plastic-free, baristacertified reusable glass coffee (or tea) cup to Australians,” says Colegate.

One of the reasons it took so long was the challenge of working entirely outside of the plastic world.

“We were determined to make sure our entire product lifecycle was as sustainable and plastic-free as the resulting product, but thanks to our obsession with cheap convenience, the world is inundated with plastic packaging and processing materials too. Creating a successful production and business model without plastic was challenging, but we’re proud to say we’ve achieved it.”

Indeed, Colegate enthuses that developing and producing an eco-cup that people really love, and that’s empowered so many Australians of all types to make a direct and instant positive impact to not only their own health, but the health and wellbeing of our environment has been the greatest highlight.

“While response slowly grew in the beginning, consumers are more and more comfortable with the idea of eco-cups and are more educated about the impact of plastic and disposable paper cups on the environment.

What makes JOCO cups so unique?

JOCO products are specially crafted using leading industry knowledge and premium materials, designed for a lifetime of use. JOCO cups are 100 per cent plastic, toxin free. The cups are artisan blown (handmade) by highly skilled artists, using high grade borosilicate glass, developed for its light weight, heat retentive properties and unique durability.

“Some of the challenges we’ve faced were in developing industry-leading techniques for artisan-blown glass that enables mass distribution of a hand-made product. We also faced challenges developing unique materials that were truly sustainable enough to be fit for a life time of use.”

It’s also thermal shock resistant and protects from the acids common in many beverages.

Each JOCO cup comes with a thermal silicone sleeve and an ergonomically designed lid; the medical grade silicone is non-toxic and non-porous, specifically developed for use with coffee and beverages.

In addition to offering bold colours and a charming Seaglass range, JOCO has collaborated with international artists and non-profit organisations to design bespoke collections that guarantee style while you sip.

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“Our business has grown from small start-up to a full team recognised around the world.

We continue to grow each year, and can see a shift in people now actively looking to make a difference with the products they purchase, so it has been great to see regions worldwide getting involved.”

Colegate must be doing something right as JOCO cups have won plenty of praise, accolades and awards including New York Coffee Festival’s Best Product award, and was named a life-changing and superior product by the likes of Buzzfeed and The Guardian UK. This recognition means a lot to Colegate as he is very much aware of the struggles they went through to get to this point. “It’s been a challenge to compete against the draw cards of plastic and the resulting products. Cheap, convenient and easy to work with, the overuse of plastic has been strengthened by the false understanding that plastic can be safe, and that plastic can and is recycled in circular model economies.

“The idea of guilt free convenience has now clogged our recycling efforts on a global basis.

With only a small portion of plastic making it to recycling, these items can only be recycled a few times before they are down cycled into non-recyclable items. Additionally, there is the fact that plastic impacts our health and environment during use via micro particles.

“The days are gone where we can label recyclability as a benefit of plastic use,” he adds.

“We’re excited that Australians and other countries know things need to change. We can educate about the issues facing our environment and our health as much as we can, but it’s even more important that we’re presenting those people with a simple solution―one purchase that will impact their health and reduce waste every day.

“We will continue to develop eco-innovative product solutions, working with the best in the industry, and communicating and educating consumers around the world about the effects of disposable waste and plastic.” ◆ jococups.com

trade fair report

Incredible India At the 44th edition of the IHGF Delhi Fair, Indian designers using local resources and traditional manufacturing techniques took centre stage.

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he IHGF Delhi Fair Autumn closed its doors in October after another successful edition showcasing products from nearly 3,000 exhibitors to buyers from all over the world.

Held over five days from 12 to 16 October 2017 at the India Expo Centre in Greater Noida, Delhi, the fair attracted visitors from Australia, the US, Canada, Europe, South America, Asia and the Middle East. With 14 show sectors, the products ranged from gifts and decoratives to furniture, fashion and accessories, housewares, and lamps and lighting.

For Australian buyers the Delhi fair is a chance to source some of the US$79 million of handicrafts that are imported into Australia each year, accounting for around two per cent of India’s handicrafts export market.

The Minister for Textiles, Smriti Zubin Irani, opened the show after a colourful ceremony that featured Indian bagpipers and a traditional

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choir. She said the handicraft sector in India had witnessed growth of 14 per cent in 2016-17 compared to the previous year, and spoke about the need to take care of the artisans who had created many of the products on display, as they are the backbone of the industry.

This includes a new program implemented by show organisers the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) and exporter members, which will help fund education for the children of artisans. “This is the dream of the honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi that no child in the country should be left illiterate,” she said.

Prime Minister Modi is also known for his focus on promoting the north eastern region (NER) of India, and the Minister said he would be pleased that the EPCH is supporting this cause through the themed NER pavilion, which featured 20 artisans and entrepreneurs.

The NER is home to around 450 different

communities, each specialising in a different traditional technique like handmade paper, hand loomed textiles, cane and bamboo basket weaving, hand thrown pottery and eri silk jewellery.

The people of the North Eastern Region use the natural resources found in their states to produce their wares, and have also started incorporating ecofriendly practices into their manufacturing techniques. By focusing on the area through the North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme, the EPCH aims to improve the artisans’ design and marketing skills to increase their employment opportunities and improve the overall conditions in the region.

Other pavilions shone a spotlight on the country’s different regions and local designers using traditional techniques, but not necessarily to make traditional products.

Instead, many exhibitors were eager to use indigenous manufacturing methods to

trade fair report

produce modern designs that will appeal to an international market.

This includes Dhruv Talwar from Iera Living Designs, which launched its latest fashion and accessories ranges at the fair. The business was started by Talwar’s mother 10 years ago and works with smaller factories to develop its products.

“They are good factories but slightly smaller than the really big ones that can afford huge marketing budgets and a design team,” he says.

“So our design team integrates their techniques into our designs. This means we don’t just sell one type of bag—we coordinate our collections based on the factories’ traditional techniques.”

For example, Iera worked with artisans in rural areas in India to create its Conscious Collection of bags. The range incorporates traditional weaving techniques into modern accessories, creating designs today’s consumers want to purchase.

“They have beautiful techniques which are really old, people have been doing it for centuries, but their designs aren’t contemporary,” says Talwar. “They are really ethnic designs which don’t sell too well, so our designers work with them to contemporise their techniques and make them more accessible.”

This modern take on old techniques was also evident on the event runway, where daily fashion shows highlighted dresses, bags, jackets and jewellery made by local designers that combined Indian textiles with on-trend styles.

Jaipur-based MB Exports sent a collection of handcrafted bags down the runway that were made using centuries-old Jaipur techniques updated for the modern market, while Veva’s Fashion used indigenous techniques to create its range of eco-friendly cotton canvas bags screen printed with trendy palm tree patterns.

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Visitors could also get a glimpse into the country’s future in the design pavilion, where Delhi-based start-up Studio SQ1 showed buyers what modern Indian design looks like.

The homewares brand was founded just three months before exhibiting by furniture designer Melvin Josy and three friends—a ceramic artist, interior designer and a pilot. “[The pilot] manages the company,” explains Josy. “He also sources textiles from all around India.”

For the studio’s launch the friends created a collection called Dawn, based on the colour palette of the sun rising and falling every day over India’s fields, which is conveyed through pops of orange and green in the products. It also has a more metaphorical meaning.

“It was a new beginning for us,” says Josy.

“We decided to create a few products—a few lighting fixtures, chairs and ceramic teapots—all inspired by the dawn.”

This concept really comes through in Studio SQ1’s chairs, which feature circular orange backs with a textured green or smooth beige seat, echoing the Indian landscape.

The products are designed by SQ1 using materials mainly sourced from Delhi and its surrounds.

“We work with artisans, not big export houses, so we support them. We get the products made by different vendors and local vendors also come to our studio and work with us. Everything is sourced locally, that’s the idea.”

Studio SQ1 came to be featured at the IHGF fair after being named as a finalist in the India Lifestyle Awards, and Josy was then contacted by the EPCH who wanted to create a space at the fair for emerging designers. As the brand is still so new, Josy says he didn’t know what to expect from the fair but was pleased at the number of buyers showing interest in the products, including a few from Australia and Europe.

“EPCH liked the idea of having a designer pavilion so they invited us to set up here…

Initially we didn’t have a plan but after coming here I think it is a good opportunity—it’s good exposure for us. A lot of buyers really liked the products so maybe we will consider exporting our products in the future.”

The next edition of the IHGF Delhi Fair will run from 23 to 27 February 2018. u www.epch.in

smart living

Get Michelle Hespe catches up with Mike Wolf—a leading US expert on the Internet of Things and the evolution of the Smart Home—for a chat about what the future holds, and what is happening in the smart world, right now.

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t’s hard to comprehend that the first iPhone was released in 2007, and today over two billion people are using them. It all happened so quickly. What most people don’t know is back in 1999, another tsunami of technology was gaining momentum. That’s the year that Kevin Ashton, a British technology pioneer, supposedly coined the phrase ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) while working for Procter & Gamble.

As reported by Forbes in late 2015, around 87 per cent of people hadn’t heard of the term IoT, however, most of us have used IoT much earlier than we think—the ATM was one of the first IoT objects used by the public way back in 1974. Fast-forward 18 months to 2017 and IoT is now commonly used, and everyone with a home most likely has a smart object within it.

As IoT approaches the point of being as gigantic as the smart phone phenomena, retailers should be aware of the more commonly used IoT objects in the smart home, and more importantly, understand how consumers relate to them.

Take note of the emerging trends in the IoT arena, consider some common misconceptions about IoT, and explore the ideas, concepts and resulting products that continue to evolve until they become a part of everyday life.

Soon consumers will want to develop a smart home to make their lives easier, not to mention cheaper—can my fridge tell me when my food is almost gone and put in an order to my local supermarket? Can my oven teach me how to make my cookies come out perfectly? Can someone call emergency services if my mother has a fall in her home while by herself? The answer to these questions is yes, some are already a reality and others are in the pipeline.

With so much change afoot, and data being king, consumers also want to maintain a comfortable, safe environment for their loved ones. Questions retailers may soon hear include ‘How smart should my home be?’ and ‘Am I in danger of losing my privacy?’

Enter Michael Wolf, owner of NextMarket Insights, a boutique research and strategy firm that helps companies better understand the smart home and the IoT consumer. His advice and ideas have helped retailers (and ultimately consumers) understand what IoT means in the changing face of smart homes. “Over my career, I’ve helped do two main things: build million-dollar content/advisory services and help companies better understand and navigate consumer technology markets,” he says.

Wolf is about as passionate as a person can be when it comes to discussing IoT. “I’ve been following the future and the way we live with technology since the late 1990s, in particular connectivity—the way devices talk to one another and change the way we live, and in turn, how businesses are shifting their business models,” he says.

“Today, the smart home is no longer a futurists’ idea—it is actually happening across 40 giftguideonline.com.au

tens of millions of households. We’ve crossed the chasm to this era and many of us are now living in a ‘connected’ household.”

Two new trends allow consumers to manage their own smart home experiences, Wolf explains. For the technologically experienced consumer, the DIY smart home is a self-installable smart home and is not connected to any home service provider. For those who aren’t sure about which smart or connected products are right for them, Amazon offers a free in-home consultation service where consumers can try smart home products and learn how to voice control their home with Alexa.

“Today, a lot more products that people need are easy to install, whereas before, you had to buy an entire system,” Wolf explains. “There is a movement toward more focused products—products that do one thing really well. And Amazon came in and had a rethink about the market.”

Hence the popularity of the Amazon Echo, a connected speaker that helps you interact with your home. If you have a question about how to cook something or where to buy a product, simply ask Echo and it provides an answer.

The new technology is also helping the average consumer become an expert at tasks or activities that normally require hours and hours of training.

“As technology advances, it compresses the time it takes to become an expert,” he says. “For example, I have a connected beer brewery in my home. Before smart technology, I shied away from brewing beer on my own as it didn’t taste good and I didn’t want to serve up bad beer.

But now I can make a great brew as the products do a lot of the hard work for me.”

Wolf also believes that the smart home will help the growing elderly population. “Smart homes will be able to assist with extending the time that elderly people can spend in their own homes,” he says. “As safety technology develops, there are more ways to assist them.

For instance, if your elderly mother living alone fell, the smart home would register that and call 911. You could be notified if she didn’t come down for breakfast.”

The smart home will also add convenience to our increasingly busy schedules. As smart home systems become more integrated, one day the sensor that knows you have arrived home from work will alert the smart cooking system, which will begin cooking the meal and then let you know when dinner is ready. That’s heaven for busy executives or those with kids and babies to feed before they get to sit down.

The promise on the horizon is that the IoT can save

consumers a lot of money because the products purchased today are not static. Rather, they are shells to a product inside that can change with the times and advance alongside technology.

“Smart products that you buy now can be improved,” Wolf says. “Connected products can be improved without the consumer having to buy a new one. For instance, you buy a washing machine from a manufacturer and you pay a small fee. That manufacturer then becomes your service provider. It’s more than just gaining a product—you’re gaining an ongoing service.”

As the creator of the Smart Kitchen Summit, Wolf is fascinated with the advancement of smart home kitchen spaces. From ovens that help you cook to benches that adjust to your height as you approach, and from surfaces that talk to you to cameras built into appliances, designers and manufacturers today must change the way they make things as people are changing the way that they interact with the very fabric of their homes.

“Appliances, countertops and the furniture of a home all interact,” he says. “It’s a bigger idea, and it’s still early days. It’s about putting all of this into the fabric of the home, to improve lives.”

Smart home advancements also raise the question of privacy. Essentially, a home can be filled with smart products gathering data from the people living there and that data is used by companies to communicate with them, and ultimately sell them more things and services.

“We’re coming up out of this Wild West now,” Wolf says assuredly. “There is a greater understanding of security, but when the first smart products were being developed, security wasn’t a top priority. Today, manufacturers and businesses should understand that it’s a privilege, not a right, to have someone’s data.”

So, is there reason to be concerned? As with any new trend or wave in technology, it’s a matter of education. Wolf recommends listening to tech podcasts and visiting sites such as thespoon.tech (a site that his company developed) to read stories, watch videos and join a community of others who are on the learning curve as well. Another great resource for those interested in the IoT is iotpodcast.com.

“We’re not slowing down,” he says. “Things are only about to get a whole lot more interesting.”

And no doubt, smarter. u Smart Home will be a key theme again at the 2018 International Home + Housewares Show. For more information about the International Home + Housewares Show and to pre-register for the 2018 Show, taking place in Chicago on March 10-13, 2018, please visit www.housewares.org.

January 2018 41

wholesaler profile

In a fast-paced world, it’s nice to stop and connect with those around us. For Melbournebased business Koh Living, this connection goes far beyond stock on shelves.

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tarted 10 years ago by good friends Tui Cordemans and Nyree Hibberd, Koh Living is all about connecting with others while adding purpose and meaning to customers’ and retailers’ lives. It’s easy to see Cordemans’ passion in doing things differently within the gift and wholesaling industry.

“We believe in creating gifts that make a difference,” she explains.

“For us, it’s all about connecting people and making them feel important, thinking about others when you’re gifting, for example, and knowing that you have purchased an experience rather than just an object on a shelf.

“I see this as the new wave in retailing, where there is a sense of integrity, much more than just pushing out SKUs for the sake of the bottom line.”

As part of this refreshing vision, Cordemans and her team have focused on products that reflect their belief in personal connection and gift giving.

“We look at each product with the idea of how it will add meaning to our customers’ and retailers’ lives. We work with local designers and try to ensure ethical manufacturing and distinctive packaging. We look at each piece as adding a feeling of peace and tranquillity to the everyday,” she adds.

The Koh Living Collection encapsulates individually designed products built around distinct stories. The range includes calming and restorative Minikin lanterns, glass and ceramic votive holders, nature-inspired votive cups, mugs

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and porcelain vessels and dreamtime designs that support a local indigenous community. Each piece is designed to create a mindful oasis.

Showing a 30 per cent year-on-year increase in sales since its beginnings, the team has won industry awards such as the Reed Gift Fair Gala Award for Christmas product of the year 2016 and more recently the Reed Gift Fair Gala Award for handmade product of the year.

“We work on two levels—retail and consumer. We offer our retailers realistic tips to help them improve their customer service including initiatives like training videos. We also encourage our retailers to involve their local community and add meaning to their store, rather than just stocking our products. It’s all about connecting rather than just selling and we would prefer to see our retailers (and customers) having a coffee with a member of their local community than pushing a cash register button.

“For our consumers, we are all about creating experiences through our unique stories. From coastal living inspiration, mindful and meditation collections, country living and our European styled Christmas collection, each and every Koh Living piece encapsulates a sense of emotion. We love to make people feel important.” u www.kohliving.com.au

Reaching a milestone should always be cause for celebration, whether it is for yourself or for a 50-year-old store that is in need of a revamp.

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retailer profile

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ith its 50th anniversary looming, there was no better time to re-launch Minimax’s Toorak, Melbourne store than 2017. However, you would be forgiven for thinking that is quite a challenge considering the current retail climate.

Andrea McCormick, group merchandise and creative manager, the Homewares Group, says that while general feedback around the economic environment is challenging, there are still some areas of the business that are producing strong growth on last year.

“It’s about continuing to try new product and seek out new items until you are able to find what connects with your customers,” she explains.

“Understand your customer and local market demographics. We identify and respond to buying patterns that differ from our stores in Tasmania versus stores in Melbourne or South Australia—most businesses are not that nimble and therefore miss out on opportunities.”

As the oldest Minimax store and one of the largest in the group, it was important in the planning to ensure the Toorak store was set up as its flagship.

“The rebranding of the store started with the makeover of the store including replacing the floor, new lighting, fixturing, counters and introducing new ranges of

product not available in other Minimax locations,” McCormick adds.

“We included a Wedding List Co (an online bridal registry service owned also by our group) service site where we have dedicated staff that prepare bridal registry lists either online or in-store.

“We also reinvested in our website, launching a new digital platform. The brief for the digital agency was to ensure that customers had the same sense of range, inspiration and assortment that you get from visiting one of our stores in order to achieve an omni-channel view of the brand.

“Finally, we celebrated the 50th birthday with multiple events for VIP customers, media, suppliers and staff. The highlight was a VIP night held for our customers from our loyalty program and media. The event was supported by suppliers with a mixologist preparing custom cocktails (Minimax Mai Tai) using Spiegelau drinkware. We also held a cocktail party to recognise long-serving staff members.”

The relaunch was not without its challenges as the team had to ensure there was minimal disruption during trading hours while finishing the renovation by the deadline.

“To manage this we had two shifts of work, with the second shift starting late afternoon and finishing in the January 2018 45

retailer profile

and merchandise planning is in line with these. We work closely with our local suppliers to support international brands. Where possible we seek exclusivity to avoid competition and distribute these same lines though our other retail stores, General Trader and Your Habitat.

“We also have our own imported ranges that are a result of visiting all the major housewares fairs across the world.

Our imports provide us with exclusivity and gross margin gains. We import from Italy, Portugal, Austria, Germany, India, Thailand, France, Poland and China.”

But nothing is more important than your staff—the people that are the face of your store, your brand and interact daily with the customers.

“You need people that have a shared passion for what you are trying to achieve in appealing to the customers’ needs and who understand and operate with the brand values at all times―that’s what makes a successful store.” u www.minimax.com.au/

early hours of the morning. It was also critical the timeline did not extend beyond the project plan as we needed to complete all works in between some major marketing events scheduled for that store.”

The layout of the store was ‘inspired’ by visits to major retailers in the UK and US, says McCormick. “We seek inspiration from all retailers, not just those within our category. Our fixturing has been designed to hold maximum stock but also merchandise coordinated ranges. We chose one of our supply partners, Australian-made Mud ceramics, to assist with the lighting over our counters, which create stunning anchor points within the store.”

She adds that customers have also commented on the ease of shopping within the store. “Due to the new fixturing we have been able to maintain the stock levels but merchandise in a more effective and space efficient manner. This has created more open space. We also used the opportunity to reconsider all the adjacencies within the store to create a more lifestyle approach to how customers shop. Our approach in everything we do is very customer centric.”

Indeed, the brand’s focus has always been to inspire customers and give them ideas for the home. Customers want to walk into a shopping environment and feel calm, relaxed, inspired. The store’s visual merchandising team spends a lot of time working with buying and marketing to design merchandise features in store to create this ambience.

“We have two seasonal plans each year (summer and winter) and our marketing plans 46 giftguideonline.com.au

COME In 2015, Ainsley Schumacher found there was a gap in the market and that Australian businesses and consumers were ready for a one-stopshop ethical marketplace.

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tarting a new business is hard and comes with plenty of ups and downs, challenges and highlights, and when you get to the point where you think, ‘what the hell am I doing?’, many people give up as it’s not worth the stress, hardship and lack of sleep!

Not for Byron Bay based Ainsley Schumacher, whose passion for the earth was stronger than any challenge that came her way. After two years of research and development she finally launched the online one-stop-shop ethical marketplace, Known Effects.

“We faced many challenges,” she explains. “Given that Known Effects is a no-loan, selffunded business venture we felt the force of all the start-up setbacks. We learnt some hard lessons in the beginning when our first web developer went missing halfway through the build and after the final deposit was paid. We had nothing to show for this investment, not even a homepage.

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“Then of course the launch challenges—is anyone going to want to open a shop with us? Are we even going to get sales for our vendors? The great unknown is always an initial challenge. We decided to re-focus on the business strategy of growing organically, as opposed to growing too quickly. All our hard work and patience is now starting to pay off.”

Known Effects is application based and product assessed so they have control over what brands and products are listed on the website. This means that when consumers visit the online shop they can purchase products with complete confidence that the brands that have stores on the site make their products themselves or are aligned with manufacturers who uphold strict fair trade agreements and have high work ethics.

“Our focus in the application process is how the products are made, from start to finish. When we receive applications we read through their description of how their products are made to ensure that there is little to no effect on the environment and that any products made using a manufacturer have implemented ethical standards for environmental protection and adhere to fair trade agreements.

“We also assess their packaging and shipping processes. As small businesses we are continually learning so we are able to help each other with suggestions on how to become even more sustainable in lowering wastage and carbon footprints.

“All our applications so far are from small to medium businesses who have not taken the word ‘ethical’ lightly in their practices and we love them for this.”

ethical retailing

Once an application is approved the brand can then open and design its own store on the platform and list its products to start selling with its own Known Effects URL. The platform is currently free for brands to create their shop with a small commission of sales. A range of advertising for the brands through vlogging, social media, blogging, PR and more is included.

Schumacher says the inspiration and driving force behind building an ethical marketplace was ultimately to create a community of like-minded people who are passionate about ethical and sustainable shopping.

“A lot of small Australian businesses boast an organic product range with ethical packaging and when all these smaller businesses band together in one place (Known Effects) their voice, passion and inspiration becomes louder and more visible to the ethical consumer.

“We want to inspire shoppers to shop local, support small business and become more aware of the background of the product they are purchasing and how it was made. We love small businesses and we want to help businesses grow as ethically and sustainably as they can and by creating a community we are all helping and learning from each other.”

Being a coastal person has definitely influenced how Schumacher runs the business, with personal drive coming from family and the environment.

“We believe in a work/life (social/family) balance. It is so important. Surrounding yourself with people who are supportive, positive and give you the energy to succeed is vital. With so much negativity in this world

we believe it’s important to be positive and attract those like-minded energetic people who love your work and want you to do well.

“We assure that each month we keep our customers and brands up-to-date with what is happening that month. We love family environments so making this vibe inside the workplace is important to us so that everyone feels comfortable.

“To keep creativity flowing we have an unspoken agreement that everyone needs vitamin sea, so the ocean is a vital part of our philosophy to keep us grounded and the perfect balance applied, so if we need a salt water fix or the surf is good we take the time for ourselves as well.”

Looking to the future, Known Effects has big plans— for its community, its brands and for the business.

Schumacher says they have shown it’s possible to start from nothing and build from the ground up, getting on the road to success and growing your business.

“Get out of your comfort zone and start talking with businesses or people in business who you can learn and grow from. We plan to take off and grow our business overseas, joining forces with some friends with the same ethical and sustainable goals.

“For our brands, we want them to grow with us (and out-grow us) to be known and recognised as brands that are succeeding in their business the right way, ethically!

“For our community, our future plans are to deliver Known Effects markets around Australia so that our customers can meet the makers in one place and enjoy a day with like-minded people.” u www.knowneffects.com January 2018 49

trade fair report

Trade fairs such as the Mega Show are a great opportunity to source new products and discover trends that will influence the merchandise you stock in your store.

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he Mega Show in Hong Kong has been around for 25 years and consists of two parts, creating the ultimate destination for companies looking for products manufactured in Asia. For seven days in October over 50,000 buyers visited the event to source giftware, packaging, premiums and souvenirs, housewares, toys and games, and stationery items.

More than 4,000 suppliers from 33 countries displayed the very best in gifts and premiums, housewares, kitchen & dining, home textiles, indoor & outdoor décor, Christmas, festive & seasonal, toys & games plus baby & nursery, giftwrap & packaging, glassware trends, Asian stationery, and ecofriendly products, making sure there is plenty on offer for visitors.

The Mega Show provided buyers with an abundance of products from suppliers not only from Asia but from all over the world. There were nine group pavilions including India, Turkey and Vietnam.

Other countries such as Australia, the UK and US were also exhibiting at the fair, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for diversity and variety.

India is known for its beautiful colours, materials and textures and India Exports’ stand at the Hong Kong Mega Show Part 1 was an excellent representation of Indian culture.

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Owner Rajesh Punjabi says he likes to follow the trends when picking colours for his collections. “We like to move with the times and clients tell us about trends they have noticed,” he explains. “For 2018 we will see a lot of oranges, reds and mint is coming (back) in a big way. You will see this in our new collection to be launched in January.”

His fabrics are 100 per cent hand woven by skilled artisans. “We employ over 1,000 weavers to create our products. We are the only company in India to do this.”

India Exports produces cushions, throws and soft furnishings for markets including Western Europe, Scandinavia, the US, Argentina and Australia. “We used to sell to Freedom in Australia, we worked closely with their designer for about two years. It was mostly low-end items so when they became more price sensitive we couldn’t fit into their price bracket anymore, which is a shame.

Regarded as an annual global trading destination within the international gift, housewares and toy industries, there has been a steady increase in the number of suppliers participating at the Mega Show who are looking to expand their customer base not only in the Asian market but globally as well.

9 – 13. 2. 2018

What makes glamour a part of your life.

What is the trend for the latest designs.

What gives your day the finishing touch.

What makes you love your sweet home so much.

What makes every day seem like a gift.

When do you take your time and just drift.

What’s breathing new life into familiar views.

What is this riddle’s solution for you.

Ambiente, the show.

Tel. +61 2 99 55 55 15 info@australia.messefrankfurt.com

trade fair report

This rise in creativity and design-led and innovative products has resulted in two new sections being introduced at the show, the Design Studio and Asian Designer Start-Ups, providing visitors access to unique and high quality products.

A trend that kept popping up was multifunctional products, such as the Tree Of Light from Chinese company Hometree Technology. Launched at the gift fair, it is a light, charging pad and speaker all in one. The lamp features a thin, cherry wood shade, and the brightness can be adjusted via touch controls on the base.

The base also features an integrated wireless charging pad and a builtin wireless neodymium speaker. You simply pair your device through Bluetooth to play your favourite music wirelessly, while using the controls on the base to adjust the volume and switch songs. There’s also a sleep mode that programs the light to turn off automatically after 30 minutes.

“Our designer and co-founder, Wang Yi Cheng, wanted to create a user-friendly, functional experience, something for the home that would make things simple,” says Hometree’s Simon Shao. “The inspiration for

Trends spotted at the Mega Show All-in-one Consumers are looking for products that are easy to use, look great but are also (multi) functional. So it basically needs to be able to do everything! We saw speakers that also functioned as a light and a charger from Hometree Technology, and amazingly versatile bagpacks from NIID that have a modular storage system, carry your water bottle, and charge your phone while looking very stylish at the same time.

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the Tree Of Light came to him when he went away on a family trip where they stayed in a house [that was] built like a tree house and surrounded by old, ancient trees in a small village. It was a beautiful, natural and almost healing experience, something Yi Cheng wanted to bring back to China and introduce to people’s homes.

“Hence the Tree Of Light is shaped as an actual tree. It can serve as a reading light before you go to sleep and you can play music, while charging your phone at the same time, as a way to relax and reconnect,” Shao explains. “Wireless charging is the future.”

Europe is the company’s biggest market, but Shao says they have had interest from Australian buyers at the show and are eager to launch into the Australian market. u www.mega-show.com/

The simple life Technology has basically taken over our lives so it is no wonder people are looking for ways to make their lives a bit simpler where possible. Refines Handicrafts showcased its DIY kits to make your own decorative animals such as elephants, deer and cats as well as tote bags, handbags and placemats.

What’s a drone Drones are cool gadgets for young and old.

They can be used as a toy, camera and, in the near future, to order and deliver your

groceries! Huajun Toys showcased a big collection of drones including the selfie drone, which we are sure will be a popular gift this year.

Technology is beautiful Electronics and technology were wrapped up in a pretty package to turn gadgets into a great gift. Like handmade speakers from Studio Oll&All, which were designed beautifully so they can be used as a decorative when not turned on, or toys that use mobile apps to create an exciting virtual world to escape in.

Visit: shervinverkil.com.au

mosaics, and folk art through to room makeovers and house makeovers. I would stay up to all hours throwing myself into a creative vision and seeing it come to life.”

For Kim inspiration can be found anywhere and everywhere, and she regularly travels overseas searching for the latest trends, colours, fabrics, patterns and products. Her ideas are then briefed to the design team and collectively they create over 10 new collections each season.

“We [still] design and develop every concept from the base product idea to a finalised design, overseeing production to ensure it is brought to life in the way I envisioned. It is quite an undertaking as we launch at least 10 new concepts to market each season.

“I have three talented designers who work with me and an amazing upper management team that supports me. My main role in the business is to channel what is in my heart and head into a design brief that my team can understand and follow.

“We’re also committed to discovering and nurturing the next generation of home-grown local talent to design our latest ranges at our Brisbane office.”

Splosh’s first trade fair was in February 2000 where Kim and Michael showed their homemade wares.

THE INSIDE STORY Splosh founders Kim and Michael Kendall take us on their journey from humble beginnings making gifts in their garage in 1999 to having their products stocked in more than 2,600 stores.

The story of Splosh goes back to 1999, when founders Michael and Kim Kendall started crafting handmade timber gifts and selling them at the local markets.

“Splosh started in our garage at home when I talked my husband into building homewares out of some fence palings,” remembers Kim. “He made them and I painted and decorated them but struggled to sell them at the markets. Each week, I had a new idea and on how we could improve and sell our wares.

“Design and art have always been my greatest drivers. From the age of 15 I found myself searching for creative mediums from watercolour painting, 54 giftguideonline.com.au

“The response and sales were not bad but they certainly were not great, however, as the stock went into store and sold, our reputation started to grow and so did our customer base.”

To keep up with demand and grow their business at the same time, the pair decided to import. They put in their first order from Asia in 2001, and while this one was quite an easy process, it wasn’t all smooth sailing.

Splosh Branded Content

“The second order, which we imported from another supplier, was a complete disaster and all stock had to be discarded. We quickly learnt that you can’t assume a factory understands your requirements―a tough but important lesson for us. Still to this day we travel overseas to visit our manufacturing suppliers each season and complete stock checks in person to make sure all products meet our high standards,” she explains.

“I am involved in the concept and development of every product step by step and still do the trips to China to approve samples and check shipments before they leave to us.”

Today, Splosh launches over 800 products annually and has introduced new concepts to the market including change boxes, wish jars, signature frames and its latest collection, fairy houses.

In addition to the Splosh brand, the company also has its own candle and fragrance brand, KoKo and is the distributor of WoodWick Candles in Australia and New Zealand.

“KoKo is a private label luxury home fragrance brand established in 2015 and we have six product lines and 12 fragrances. WoodWick is a US premium fragranced candles brand with patented Pluswick technology, which means the wooden wick crackles when it burns. We have been the nominated distributor in Australia and New Zealand since 2009.”

Splosh now has over 2,600 stockists across Australia and New Zealand as well as international distributors and Kim says the hardest part of growing the business to this point was being a creative but still having to wear the many organisational hats of running a small start-up business.

Today Kim and Michael’s daughter Laura Colman has taken over the reigns as general manager, taking the business to new heights whilst remaining grounded in the solid roots her parents created.

“Currently my role is nearly all creative, I still wake at night with ideas floating in my head, and I still love being involved in all things creative from product to catalogue and working with our marketing team.

“There is not a day that goes by that I don’t feel blessed to be able to do a job that I feel so passionate about and work with the incredible people that are Splosh today.

“Splosh is all about fostering creativity and positivity and live by our vision of ‘spreading optimism into the lives of everyday people, every day’.

“We’re more than a homewares and gifting brand―we’re a community of passionate, dynamic and innovative team members dedicated to creating the latest home decor and bringing it direct to our customers.”

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No place like home After a brief retirement, the founder of Melbourne store Homing Instincts, Jennie Lane, went from selling camping equipment to quirky gifts.

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hen Jennie Lane attempted to retire after 23 years in the retail business, she realised she wasn’t ready. Instead, after an 18-month break what she wanted was a new challenge.

Having owned camping stores with her husband, Lane decided to use her retail skills to run a different kind of store and began looking for an existing gift shop to purchase.

After struggling to find anything that excited her, and spotting a gap in the market for a shop selling quirky gifts, in 2010 Lane started a business from scratch in a shopfront along the Yarra River in Melbourne.

“After stumbling across a vacant shop in Warrandyte, my husband, two boys and I worked around the clock to convert the empty space into something really special,” Lane explains.

The result was the first Homing Instincts store, which has since spawned three other locations in Melbourne—Hawthorn opened in 2012, Malvern in 2016 and Moonee Ponds, which opened in July 2017. The Warrandyte location closed briefly but reopened last November, taking the shop count to four plus an online store, which has been trading since 2015.

Lane works on the business alongside her son Jackson, who has been instrumental in helping to grow the brand. He was responsible for opening the Malvern store and the pair took on Moonee Ponds together.

“We are constantly moving with demand and with my son now working in the business he has brought in some fresh energy and a desire to grow the business,” says Lane. “He is a natural retailer—perhaps as a result of spending his whole life around a retailing family.”

Homing Instincts stocks a varied range of gifts, cards and homewares that are sourced at local trade fairs along with visits to Europe and the US. The idea is that customers can find a gift for their grandma or their grandchild—there’s something for any age and interest.

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retailer profile

Walking into a Homing Instincts store customers discover shelves filled with everything from Sunnylife inflatables to S’well bottles, Hunter Lab skincare, Halcyon Nights babywear, Frank Green reusable coffee cups, La La Land cards and Bon Lux candles.

Lane says she has been impressed with the quality of the products available in Australia and has enjoyed forming relationships with local wholesalers over the past seven years.

“For a small country I think Australia does a fantastic job of pulling together a great mix of international products and influences… I have been surprised by the honesty and integrity within the wholesale gift industry and the overwhelming professional attitude from most suppliers that we come across and in particular those that we do business with.”

With such a diverse product range, the store fitouts are kept relatively simple so they don’t detract from the items on show. Lane adds character to her stores by using found objects paired with practical solutions to create vast product displays, and she says merchandising is about “fun, fun and fun”.

“We create a relaxed, fun environment with great service and a true feel-good factor for our customers.

With visual merchandising we keep a clear message for our customers in all categories.”

Because gift and homewares trends move extremely quickly, Lane says she and Jackson are always on the lookout for new products and categories to introduce into Homing Instincts, paying close attention to what customers want. As a small business, they have the ability to move quickly by keeping an eye on what’s selling (and what’s not) across the stores.

“Product trends move extremely fast these days so last year’s best-sellers can be completely overturned with some hot new products a season later… We are constantly changing, closely managing our ordering to

keep in line with trends and customer needs. Small businesses have the ability to be quite nimble in this regard. By managing our sales reports we can keep product fresh and changing, thereby holding the interest of our customers and helping them find something new.”

Having been self-employed for over 30 years now, Lane knows what it takes to keep an independent retail business afloat: hard work, listening to your customers and a desire to keep improving.

“We always listen to our customers and keep them central to the way we run our stores. It’s a huge workload and there’s a real need to push through obstacles along with the way. Tenacity is the order of the day—it’s not for the faint hearted.

“Monitor and manage your stock, staff and customers carefully and be prepared to put in some serious hours. Be committed to training your staff at every level. Continue to nurture and show appreciation for the huge effort from your team.”

“Our success is down to years of experience in retail, built on a solid foundation with the desire to keep abreast of all things retail. Quite simply it’s hard work coupled with experience and the desire to be the best we can.” u hominginstincts.com.au January 2018 57

preview

MADE IN HEAVEN Ambiente is one of the largest trade fairs in Europe with visitors from around the world attending to start their buying season for the year ahead. We have a look at what to expect in 2018.

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etworking and B2B matchmaking are becoming increasingly important for trade fair visitors, and so Ambiente is introducing Business Matchmaking this year. The digital program—available in German and English—enables manufacturers and attendees to save specific search paramaters to the web portal, whereupon the program ‘matches’ relevant parties.

Ambiente vice president, Nicolette Naumann, says making the right contacts and finding new visitors or exhibitors has become a central issue for anyone coming to the trade fair. “We are now a digital step ahead of this trend, offering our exhibitors and visitors an uncommon service—the Business Matchmaking Program—which gives them major added value, even during the run-up to Ambiente,” she says.

Anyone with a ticket is automatically included in the Business Matchmaking Program and can log in with their trade fair access details which they already have at this stage.

What’s trending?

Urbanisation, globalisation and individualisation are trends influencing consumer behaviour in more ways than one. “Our industry is going through a period of radical change. Young designers are responding with creative solutions that reflect the spirit of the time,” says Naumann.

For example, Spanish brand Closca has developed an entirely new folding bike helmet, inspired by the experiences of city cyclists, and will be showcasing this stylish innovation at Ambiente. Parisian brand Carmen will present its clever take on the current notebook trend—a single cover contains several notebooks for different projects and comprises a variety of models, some including an organiser, wallet and card holder.

Another company to look out for is Danish label Nichba Design, which will present its space-saving living concepts for city nomads. The range of steel furniture features a minimalist design, and uses everyday products in sometimes unusual ways. For example, its range of cat furniture blends easily into the home and is secured on the wall like a shelf.

Tapping into the handmade and sustainable trend is Kalaika’s cult ECO net bag, which is not just an alternative to disposable plastic bags but also a fashion accessory.

Dutch brand Jonghlabel is taking the traditional rattan into the next generation. Designer Anne de Jongh has translated the characteristic hexagonal pattern of rattan into a computer algorithm that allows the development of endlessly new contemporary designs.

Social implications What is sustainability? Why is it relevant to consumers?

And where do visitors find suitable products and product lines? All three questions will be answered in the Ethical Style Guide, now in its third season at Ambiente.

The sustainable line-up for the event will be listed in a directory comprising seven categories. Each participant is listed with their hall and stand number, and their stand will have an Ethical Style sign.

Going Dutch The partner country of Ambiente in 2018 is the Netherlands, following Denmark, France, Japan, the US, Italy and the UK in previous years.

“I am very pleased that we were able to win the Netherlands as a partner country for the next Ambiente—a country which is known for its outstanding design and which is both minimalist and experimental while also being innovative and unconventional,” says Detlef Braun, member of the board of management of Messe Frankfurt.

The presentation at Galleria 1 will cover a wide range of products curated and designed by Amsterdam-based Dutch designer Robert Bronwasser.

Ambiente will be held from 9 to 13 February. u ambiente.messefrankfurt.com 58 giftguideonline.com.au

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A NEW PAGE After 10 years in business, online stationery retailer NoteMaker has ventured offline with its first bricks-and-mortar store, a new name, and a fresh new vision.

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elebrating a decade in business is a milestone for any retailer, and for the founders of NoteMaker, Scott Druce and Matthew Harris, it was the catalyst they needed to reassess their vision for their online store.

As the 10-year anniversary of NoteMaker approached they realised it was time to change things up, christening the store with a new name—Milligram—and taking the plunge into bricks-and-mortar retail with their first physical location.

Druce and Harris may not be household names, but stationery tragics will have no difficulty recognising the brands they sell. They started NoteMaker in 2007 and what began with a small selection of designer stationery products grew into a booming online store selling wellknown brands like Moleskine, Rifle Paper Co, Delfonics, Pilot, LAMY and MT Washi Tape.

The entrepreneurial pair also founded popular wholesale business Telegram Co in 2008, which now supplies the same brands and more to over 1,000 stores across Australia and New Zealand and was acquired by Dymocks Group in 2015.

Milligram head of retail, Kimberly Palmer, says rebranding NoteMaker in 2017 was necessary as over the decade the store had grown beyond just stationery to

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retailer profile

include products like bags, gifts and books, and needed a name that reflected its wider focus.

“It was the right time for a new name as we ventured into a new phase,” she says. “We’ve grown over the years and the range has naturally extended beyond design stationery to include lifestyle accessories and design homewares on the site. “[The name] Milligram reflects our focus—and the focus of the brands we sell—on the smallest of details. Paper is also still at the heart of what we sell, and this is measured in both milligrams and GSM (grams per square metre). It felt right for what our future holds and what we want to bring to our customers.”

The brand’s first bricks-and-mortar store opened in Melbourne Central in November and currently stocks 50 stationery and lifestyle brands from across the globe.

While the brands ranged by Milligram are diverse, they all have one thing in common: they are what Druce and Harris see as the world’s best tools for living.

“We don’t ‘source’ anything in our business,” says Palmer. “We work with strong, growing and authentic brands, discovering international and local stationery, bags and lifestyle accessories from across the globe and bringing them to our customers…

“We care, and our customers care, about craftsmanship, heritage, performance and impact. This will be a central theme of our Milligram business going forward.”

This ethos is carried through to Milligram’s recently launched in-house label, Milligram Studio, which is featured in the new store. Milligram Studio products are

designed in Melbourne and manufactured both in Australia and abroad, with a focus on ethical and sustainability issues.

“Our Milligram brand’s tagline sums up our focus: ‘Stationery. Life’,” says Palmer. “The brand we’re also now producing, Milligram Studio, is about creating beautiful and useful objects of ‘measured design’.”

The Studio products are crafted to be beautiful, useful and used for years. This includes the terrazzo cork range of desk accessories, made using recycled rubber offcuts and reconstituted cork collected from cork oak trees in China and the Mediterranean region.

There is also a canvas art collection designed and made in Australia and a range of diaries, including one created in collaboration with Melbourne artist Beci Orpin.

While online will always be Milligram’s largest store, Palmer says a bricks-and-mortar offering is something both shoppers and the business’ founders have wanted for a long time. They plan to open more stores in 2018, including locations outside of Melbourne, using the first store as a test-case as they work out how to deliver the best experience for customers.

“NoteMaker customers have been asking for this for many, many years,” she says. “The founders Scott Druce and Matthew Harris have also long wanted to expand into physical retail, to really be able to deliver the expertise of the online store but with the experience of a physical store.

“We want to really focus on our first store and ensure we’re doing the best for our customers and learning what they want and need…We’ve worked hard [with designers Studio Y and builders MIC Projects] to create a space our customers will love, new customers will want to visit, and one that is worthy of the brands we carry.”

The physical store has been designed to offer a showroom experience that gives customers the chance to interact with Milligram’s products. There will be workshops, talks, product customisation options and writing instrument repairs “The stationery and lifestyle products that we range are incredibly tactile and so we wanted to provide a space for customers to have the chance to look, touch and see our range in person,” says Palmer.

“We’ve always championed a customer centric approach with our online store, with customer satisfaction being the bedrock of what we do… We will take the same approach with the physical store and believe it will deliver the same results. Our customers want a unique experience, so our store is created to share our passion and love of what we do.” u milligram.com January 2018 61

Life inSTYLE

Opus Design has been named gia Australia winner and will represent the country at this year’s gia Awards in Chicago.

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hen you mention Opus Design most Sydneysiders know the store you are talking about—it is basically an institution on the Oxford strip and its customer service is legendary. The store has generations of customers that keep coming back because it has been consistently operated by the same family for so many years. Celebrating 50 years in the industry this year, the retailer is still going strong after all this time, in fact, it is probably doing better now than ever before.

“Opus has designed and manufactured two new gifting ranges that have been distributed throughout Australia from October last year,” says owner Chris Tourgelis.

“We have grown our number of product ranges both in-store and online, as well as increased our social media following on all of our platforms.

OPUS has completely reinvented its mobile website and also made improvements across all online capabilities.

“We have expanded the number of staff in our media team to improve our digital marketing capacity as well. To top it all off our Opus store celebrates 50 years in business and our Octopus Design store in Newtown celebrates 15 years.”

The business is operated by Tourgelis and his family and all 30 staff members are seen as part of an extended family—some of the staff have been with Opus for more than five years.

“It comes down to allowing each member of the team to keep evolving and growing through the organisation. As the business grows it allows staff to venture into new areas that they find a particular connection with.

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By nurturing this talent we ensure a higher level of performance and loyalty. Key staff are also encouraged to further their knowledge through education and training as well,” he adds.

Tourgelis is constantly looking for new ways to help the business grow and built a state of the art premises in Paddington two years ago. The two-level building covers about 400 square metres of retail space and includes a passenger lift. The lifestyle store is stunningly merchandised and provides customers with a beautiful shopping experience that could take an hour to really see properly.

“Our flagship store is on an international level and it houses thousands of the best gifts from all over the world. The store has high staffing levels on both levels to ensure that customers receive attentive service every time. Our merchandising team also ensures that the store looks and feels amazing as well,” he enthuses.

Opus also has a growing media team that is in-house. Recently launched initiatives include FM breakfast radio ads, targeted Facebook ads with tailor made video content, Instagram, email newsletters and specific PR campaigns.

“One of the most exciting developments this year is that we have grown our capability to include our very own videographer. The Opus media team can now create video content for social media from scratch and completely in-house. Our video content is world-class and we are at the very leading edge of this technology.” u opusdesign.com.au

gia awards

What does it mean to be a gia Australia winner?

• Recognition as a retail leader among peers in home country • High visibility at the International Home + Housewares Show (Chicago): - a special gia winners’ display in the main show area - large gia winner banners in the walkway at McCormick Place - a presentation at the gia dinner - store introduction on IHA’s website - in gia printed materials such as gia fliers • Access to gia expert jurors’ know-how (Chicago) • Networking with other gia winners—chance to find new business partners, get new ideas, benchmark performance, etc.

• Opportunity to conduct customer/press events • Boost employee morale and productivity • Enlarged customer base and potential sales increases: - right to use the gia logo, photos and information in marketing and in-store promotions, etc.

- access to other gia-related materials that can be used for promotional purposes housewares.org/show/gia-retail

January 2018 63

wrap-up

NEW YORK, NEW YORK Visitors looked for uniqueness and inspiration at NY NOW.

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Y NOW was the place to be early August as more than 2,400 exhibitors showcased their products ranging from home décor and furnishings, tabletop and housewares, gifts, stationery, and textiles, as well as personal care and accessories for men, women and children, and more.

Offering a mecca of on-trend items, the product range was top-notch according to group show director NY NOW and vice president Emerald Expositions, Randi Mohr.

“We were excited to see so many incredible trends come to life,” she says.

“From a growing number of men’s lifestyle exhibitors, to an expanded toy and game section, plus nearly 500 new exhibitors and a busy seminar schedule, this market really shined.”

Creative director of O, The Oprah Magazine and Emmy Award-winning fashion correspondent, Adam Glassman, admits that this fair was one of the best NY NOW markets he has attended in a while.

“The layout felt fresh and exciting, I saw a lot of new introductions, and the energy was at a peak level,” he says.

“I found things to help complete our 2017 edition of Oprah’s Favourite Things including a completely new exhibitor that was showing in the US for the very first time! That’s the thing I love about NY NOW—you can find new things, meet new people and really impact their business.”

That new exhibitor was young Australian company Gratitude Glass Jars, which also won best product for the gift sector in

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the lifestyle category at NY NOW Summer Market. The concept is simple: every day you open the jar and write down on one of the 365 cards what you are grateful for that day.

The jars actually ended up on Oprah’s Favourite Things List 2017. “Not bad for a business that has only been doing this [seriously] for the past four months,” says founder, Claire Summers. “I was invited as a guest to the big reveal and Oprah shared me as her favourite, I was the only one brought up to speak because of my story,” she explains.

“I was the number one selling product on Amazon that day and sales have just continued to go crazy.”

Trying to get a business up and running can be challenging and for the founder of Solveig Studio, Kaaren Anderson, the learning curve was steep, like 85 per cent steep.

“This is my learning curve, there’s really no curve,” says Anderson.

“Most people laugh, and shake their head, yet it’s true. I’ve had a crash course in creating a business plan, marketing, public relations, R&D, product creation, budgeting, projections, networking, what risks to take, etc.”

Only launched in September 2016, Solveig Studio made its debut at the NY NOW fair in August featuring Anderson’s DOG Days of Summer line including 14 new dog plates.

“It’s the place to be with new products, ideas and designs. I wanted to challenge myself early on to take on such a beast. It proved both fruitful and engaging. I made great contacts, met some wonderful new customers, and launched my line nationally and internationally.

“People resonated with the quirkiness of the illustrations, the utility of the work, and the biographies of each animal character. I felt very fortunate and encouraged by the end of the show,” she enthuses.

The winter edition of NY NOW runs from 3 February to 7 February 2018. u www.nynow.com

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wrap-up

French CONNECTION An upsurge in the number of international buyers for Maison&Objet Paris makes this show one of the most successful in recent years.

V

isitors flocked to Maison&Objet (M&O) Paris last September with a 21 per cent increase on September 2016.

The number of international buyers visiting the fair continues to soar with visitors from Belgium up 18.18 per cent, Italy 23.62 per cent, Germany increased by 18.5 per cent, the UK was up by 13.56 per cent and the Netherlands rose by 27.46 per cent.

Visitors from non-European countries such as Russia, Brazil, India, Morocco and China also increased significantly as well as Japan and the US. And of course M&O remains one of the French buyers’ favourites, with 20 per cent more locals attending this September compared to last year’s show.

With more than 3,000 brands including 674 new exhibitors, the lifestyle trade fair had plenty to offer including an insight into current and future trends and a new and improved layout for the Objet Hub.

66 giftguideonline.com.au

Founder of Merci concept store, JeanLuc Colonna, who contributed to the reconfiguration of the Objet Hub, says the fair needed to adapt to changes in the market.

“The market has evolved and we are now exhibiting to more open boutiques, less formatted, that think in a lifestyle way, and not in product categories,” he explains.

Colonna says the focus has shifted from the products to the customers and the question is no longer ‘what do I want to sell?’ but ‘who do I want to talk to?’

“This is why it has become essential for buyers to make bold choices to boost their businesses.

Making bold choices means buying unique products―‘gems’―exactly the kind that they will find in hall 6.”

Social media also played a major role in promoting the fair, with more than 256K followers on Instagram, 360K fans on Facebook and its online platform MOM (Maison&Objet and More) which launched last year.

Manufacturers and design brands use MOM to present their showrooms and latest collections. It is a great way for suppliers to remain visible between trade fairs and a constant source of inspiration for retailers.

“After exhibiting at the fair, we posted our products on the MOM platform,” says David Marchal, general manager of French lifestyle brand La Maison de Lilo. “All year round, we received requests for contacts.”

Belgian company Meisterwerke, which is German for masterpieces, introduced several art pieces with a twist at the recent M&O, where it showed its collections of woven art.

The brand’s first range, The Historian, includes decorative and acoustic wall panels and folding screens of medieval portraits with a modern edge.

“M&O had a special stand this year with just a

few eye catchers, each with its own name and unique story,” say founders Isabelle Torrelle and Christian Otto.

“Venerable portraits of medieval noblemen and women in dark classic costume with one bare arm decorated with a brightly coloured sleeve tattoo. The tension between the present and the past can be read from their Mona Lisa-like smile. You feel the contrast between the past and the present, the light and dark hues, and the interplay of the traditional visual weaving technique with modern embroidery.”

They combine the strengths of weaving and embroidery, making possible the interweaving of more than 90 different colours and techniques.

“The customer can choose specific techniques, shades and nuances, which we use to create an indisputable style—a true piece of art to own and cherish,” adds Torrelle.

Also showing at M&O, Dutchdeluxes combines fashion and style with a love for cooking, and it is demonstrated in all of their products. The combination of leather and solid wood has made this brand popular since its creation in 2013.

Sebastiaan Eerhart and Maud Eerhart-Vorspaget created this label sitting at their kitchen table in Eindhoven. They started by designing colourful food platters and XL bread boards, soon followed by their famous leather aprons.

“We were missing fashionable products in the kitchen which would make you and your food look good,” says Eerhart. “Combining passion and fun, it is our challenge to design products for the kitchen that are fashionable and exhibit functional craftsmanship at the same time.

The next M&O Paris is held from 19 to 23 January 2018. u www.maison-objet.com/en

Apsley Branded Content

OUR EXPORT JOURNEY Helen Armstrong, director of Apsley and Company, shares the challenges of international trading and how to deal with them.

UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES Whether it’s in life or business, things can happen that are out of your control.

This unpredictability is not the issue, it is how you deal with it that will make the difference between you succeeding or not.

When we were about to exhibit at our first trade fair, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Show, in 2003, disaster hit—SARS. The world was in a panic and needless to say not many buyers came to the fair.

However, instead of letting it defeat us, we saw it as a great learning experience and a very quick introduction to what we needed to know and do the next time we were showing at an overseas fair.

Many successful shows followed including the New York Gift Fair and trade fairs in Bologna in Italy, Birmingham and Harrogate in the UK. Each show was an opportunity to meet with existing and new customers and learn more about local market conditions and customer must haves, likes and dislikes, preparing us for our actual export journey.

DIFFERENT RULES FOR DIFFERENT COUNTRIES Some of the interesting aspects of exhibiting at an international fair include understanding the logistics, how the setup/pull down arrangements work and the selling techniques that (potential) customers expect. Everything varies by country and can be quite confronting. For example, the selling style in the US is very ‘full-on’ by Australian standards and it can be challenging to boast about your brands + products when that is not in your DNA. Other fairs have very rigid rules about which tradesperson is authorised to do which activity on stands during setup and if not done properly there could be significant consequences. Something as simple as hammering a nail into a fixture could get you into big trouble!

UNDERSTANDING THE MARKET We now export to over 30 countries, which represents more than 60 per cent

of our business with major customers in the Middle East, Taiwan and South Korea, where Apsley is the market leader in the diffuser category.

We found it is very important to understand the culture of the country you are exporting to as well as how they conduct business―what is acceptable practice in one country might not be in another.

Negotiation styles also vary a lot― some cultures are happy to accept the prices and terms of trade you offer without discussion, for others it can take a lot of toing and froing before an agreement is signed. One of the most important issues we needed to understand was what market channel our potential customer was working in and the level of tiers of distribution. A lack of understanding on this issue can have a very significant impact on margins.

TRIALS & TRIBULATIONS When doing business overseas there are many challenges to deal with, such as different time zones for example. This seems like such a small issue in the scheme of things, but it means that your inbox is constantly full and every morning you wake up to a lot of emails that require attention.

We often work with our customers to develop fragrances and products that meet the specific requirements of their market. The fragrances and colour palettes for the Middle East, for instance, are very different from what is preferred in other parts of the world.

From when we first began exporting in 2003, the rules and systems have changed significantly. There is increased government regulation encompassing everything from product composition to bans on corporate gift giving, required warnings and product registration.

Logistics requirements are also far more complex nowdays, to meet the needs of black box warehouses. This means much more administrative support is required, and processing an order takes considerably longer than it took even as recently as three years ago.

January 2018 67

In style Fun, fashionable and classic finds for any style

Bellroy slim work bag, retails for $239. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge | Como keyholder, wholesales for $9.50. Madras Link, 03 9490 0600, showroom@madraslink.com.au, www.madraslink.com, facebook.com/MadrasLinkHomewares, instagram.com/madraslink | Sassy Duck Florence handbag, wholesales for $40. CH Collections, 08 9470 1611, sales@sassyduck.com.au, www.sassyduck.com.au, facebook.com/SassyDuckBags, instagram.com/sassyduckbags | Nail polish range, wholesale for $9 each. Say It With Polish, 0412 873 713, jessica@sayitwithpolish.com.au, sayitwithpolish.com.au, facebook.com/sayitwithpolish, instagram.com/Sayitwithpolish 68

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accessories & jewellery

Paraiba tote bag, wholesales for $36. DWBH Homewares, 07 3907 7567, info@dwbh.com.au, www.dwbh.com.au, facebook.com/dwbhhomewares, instagram.com/dwbh_homewares | Essence summer hats, wholesale from $4.52 to $13.61. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibsongifts.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au, facebook.com/gibson.gifts, instagram.com/gibsongifts | Sara Miller tin, wholesales for $4.15. Tinco, 03 9588 0411, sales@tinco.com.au, tinco.com.au | Allen Designs compact mirror, wholesales for $2.65.

Rikaro, 03 9587 9554, wsales@rikaro.com.au, www.rikaro.com.au | Cool Stuff Holographic bag, purse & clutch, retails from $6.90. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia | LEFF tube watch, retails for $285.

Until, 02 9119 8700, hello@until.com.au, until.com.au, facebook.com/untilhq, instagram.com/untilhq January 2018

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Auto sensor bag light, wholesales for $9. Arnott’s of Australia, 03 9326 9696, arnotts@arnottsgadgetman.com, www.arnottsgadgetman. com | Rose gold jingle hook earrings, wholesale for $27.60. Bianc, 0412 251 257, info@bianc.com.au, www.bianc.com.au, facebook.com/ Bianc-132213890190652, instagram.com/bianc_jewellery | Aromatherapy jewellery, wholesales for $39. Blue Turtles, 03 9557 9972, sales@blueturtles.com.au, www.blueturtles.com.au, facebook.com/blueturtlessilverandstone, instagram.com/blue.turtles | Ecoa Andino Panama Hat Chambe, wholesales for $65. Content Imports, 0418 143 950, contentimports@hotmail.com, www.contentimports.com.au | SwingSAK in feathers design, wholesales for $6.50. Envirotrend, 07 3376 4416, sales@envirotrend.com.au, www.envirotrend.com.au, facebook.com/EnviroTrendAustralia-186000075884, instagram.com/envirotrend | Allen Designs glasses cases, wholesale for $6.65. Rikaro, 03 9587 9554, wsales@rikaro.com.au, www.rikaro.com.au | Fashion accessories, wholesale prices range from $16.90 to $46.90. Conti Moda, 02 6574 7222, info@contimoda.com.au, www.contimoda.com.au | Hello Sunday bag, wholesales from $36 to $45. Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, instagram.com/vevoke | The Art of Cats tote bag, wholesales for $7.20. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia 70

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accessories & jewellery

Visit us at SYDNEY

DY17

Journie Florabelle clutch, prices on request. Anna Nova, 1300 307 149, info@annanova.com.au, www.annanova.com.au, facebook.com/annanovafashion, instagram.com/ annanovaaccessories | Amol Links Morocco shopping basket, wholesales for $30. Content Imports, 0418 143 950, contentimports@hotmail.com, www.contentimports.com.au | Mod Squad long bang multi necklace, wholesales for $15.22.

Ruby Olive Jewellery, 0436 854 731, hello@rubyolive.com.au, www.rubyolive.com, facebook.com/rubyoliveonline, instagram.com/rubyoliveonline January 2018

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kids PLAY Toys, games, clothing and educational products for babies, children and mums-to-be

Rattles and squeakers, wholesale from $4. ES Kids, 08 8371 0371, info@eskids.com.au, www.eskids.com.au | Baby romper & jumpsuit, wholesales from $12. Flat Friends, 0416 118 881, lina@flatfriends.com.au, www.flatfriends.com.au, facebook.com/flatfriends, nstagram.com/flatfriends98 | Bunnies by the Bay Nibbles bunny, wholesales from $11.35 to $40.90. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Scribbly Koala, wholesales from $4.54. Cooee Brands, 02 8040 2776, sales@cooeebrands.com.au, www.cooeebrands.com.au 72 giftguideonline.com.au

baby & child

I’m Toy Style Rider ride-ons, wholesale for $52.25. Artiwood Australia, 02 8294 3030, info@artiwood.com.au, www.artiwood.com.au, facebook.com/artiwoodaustralia, instagram.com/artiwoodaustralia | TeeBee multi-purpose toy and lunch box, wholesales for $25. Axis Toys, 02 9986 3456, paulaopfer@axistoys.com, www.axistoys.com, facebook.com/AxisToys, nstagram.com/axis_toys | HABA colour whorl clutching toy, wholesales for $11.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/ BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | green sprouts learning plate, wholesales for $12.50. For Baby and Up, 02 8011 3873, info@forbabyandup.com.au, www.forbabyandup.com.au | Paddington Bear, wholesales from $18.15. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor. com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Cool Stuff rainbow pom pom keychain, retail from $3.99.

TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia January 2018

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Kinderfeets board, wholesale for $82. Artiwood Australia, 02 8294 3030, info@artiwood.com.au, www.artiwood.com.au, facebook.com/artiwoodaustralia, instagram.com/artiwoodaustralia | Janod family croquet trolley, wholesales for $57. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/ brightbabyimports | Sleep Sheep, retails for $59.99. Cloud b, australiainfo@cloudb.com, www.cloudb.com/au | Picture books, wholesale for $14.

Compendium, 1300 304 569, michael@compendium.com.au, www.compendium.com.au | Fox soft toy boy and girl, wholesales for $44.98.

Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Marcus & Marcus sensory teether, wholesales for $8. Next Generation Homewares, 0418 287 829, sales@ngh.com.au, www.nextgenerationhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/NextGenerationHomewares | Thomas & Friends flip and learn phone, wholesales for $13.65. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Briers kids hat, tool belt & watering can, wholesale from $6.50. Products of Excellence, 02 9939 0566, sales@gardenproducts.com.au | Cool Stuff Cuddle Pals plus dinosaur, retails for $7.99. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 74

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baby & child

Kiddus Accessories teaching watch, wholesales for $18.80. Axis Toys, 02 9986 3456, paulaopfer@axistoys.com, www.axistoys.com, facebook.com/AxisToys, instagram.com/axis_toys | Clipacharm (10 asst in display of 60), wholesales for $5.40. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibsongifts.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au, facebook.com/gibson.gifts, instagram.com/gibsongifts | Bush Baby World Blossom Meadows mini plush toys, display of 12 wholesales for $92.40. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS

Fair Trade & Eco-friendly products Find us: Syd

Showground 2E3

Follow us: Instagram@import.ants

info@importants.com.au | 02 9516 1496

www.importants.com.au January 2018

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Indigo Jamm Colin Walker van, wholesales for $86.35. Artiwood Australia,, 02 8294 3030, info@artiwood.com.au, www.artiwood.com.au, facebook.com/artiwoodaustralia, instagram.com/artiwoodaustralia | Sassi Junior travel, learn & explore Australia puzzle and book set, wholesales for $14.50. Axis Toys, 02 9986 3456, paulaopfer@axistoys.com, www.axistoys.com, facebook.com/AxisToys, instagram.com/axis_toys | Janod baby range, wholesales from $8.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | GAIA Natural Baby soothing cream, wholesales for $6.03. GAIA Skin Naturals, 03 9703 1707, info@gaiaskinnaturals.com, www.gaiaskinnaturals.com, facebook.com/gaianaturalbaby, instagram.com/gaia_skin_naturals | green sprouts cleaning teether, wholesales for $6. For Baby and Up, 02 8011 3873, info@forbabyandup.com.au, www.forbabyandup.com.au | Sock Society, wholesales for $4.50. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibsongifts.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au, facebook.com/gibson. gifts, instagram.com/gibsongifts | Kids aprons with applique & oven mit, wholesales for $15.76. Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Cool Stuff power patches, retail for $7.99. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia | Hey Duggee assorted mealtime items, wholesale from $2.25. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 76

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baby & child

Sassi Junior 3D dolls house and book construction set, wholesales for $14.50. Axis Toys, 02 9986 3456, paulaopfer@axistoys.com, www.axistoys.com, facebook.com/AxisToys, instagram.com/axis_toys | HABA ice cream shop, wholesales for $44.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | Baby gift box sets, wholesales from $12.70. ES Kids, 08 8371 0371, info@eskids.com.au, www.eskids.com.au | Unicorn doorstop, wholesales for $15.95.

Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibsongifts.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au, facebook.com/gibson.gifts, instagram.com/gibsongifts | BabyGUND Luna unicorn lovey blanket, wholesales for $12.25. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Girl Gang assorted stationery, wholesales from $1.80.

Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Cool Stuff unicorn balloon ball, retails for $6.25. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia | Marcus & Marcus food cube trays, retails for $23.95. Next Generation Homewares, 0418 287 829, sales@ngh.com.au, www.nextgenerationhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/NextGenerationHomewares | Kids safe knife, wholesales for $5.90. KiddiKutter, 0403 832 949, info@kiddikutter.com.au, www.kiddikutter.com.au, facebook.com/kiddikutter January 2018

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Bowl XL + straw, wholesale for $7.50. b.box for kids, 1300 362 255, sales@bbox.com.au, www.bbox.com.au, facebook.com/bboxforkids, instagram.com/bboxforkids | Playforever Heat Shadow, wholesales for $43.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com. au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | HABA bubble bath whisk, wholesales for $10.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | Marcus & Marcus straw drink bottles, retail for $21.95. Next Generation Homewares, 0418 287 829, sales@ngh.com.au, www.nextgenerationhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/NextGenerationHomewares | Boxed muslin wraps, wholesale for $14.95. ES Kids, 08 8371 0371, info@eskids.com.au, www.eskids.com.au | Wiggles mealtime set, prices on request. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Pusheen with donut backpack clip, wholesales for $9.05. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Cool Stuff light up gyro wheel, retails for $13. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia | Zoolu greeting cards, wholesales for $10 per 10 pack. Zoolu Game, 0405 712 105, zoolusales@gmail.com, www.zoolugame.com, facebook.com/zoolugame 78

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baby & child

Mother to be, wholesales for $30.30. Aromababy Natural Skincare, 03 9464 0888, info@aromababy.com, www.aromababy.com, facebook.com/AromababyOrganicBabySkincare, instagram.com/aromababy_official | Goki bunk bed, wholesales for $36.95. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 859 566, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | Vintage Paddington with long hair, wholesales for $68. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | HABA pegging game flower garden, wholesales for $33.50. Bright Baby Imports, 1300 85 95 66, info@brightbabyimports.com.au, www.brightbabyimports.com.au, facebook.com/BrightBabyImports, instagram.com/brightbabyimports | Dinosaur & girl with puppy key ring, wholesale for $13.86. Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Pusheen interactive super Pusheenicorn, wholesales for $36.35. Jasnor Australia, 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS/, instagram.com/JasnorAUS/ | Marcus & Marcus drink & eat range, prices on request. Next Generation Homewares, 0418 287 829, sales@ngh.com.au, www.nextgenerationhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/NextGenerationHomewares |Marcus & Marcus cutlery pouch, retails for $21.95. Next Generation Homewares, 0418 287 829, sales@ngh.com.au, www.nextgenerationhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/NextGenerationHomewares | Cool Stuff power pins, retail from $5.25.

TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia January 2018

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bed & bath A selection of products for the bedroom & bathroom

Gumleaf Essentials hand and body lotion, wholesales for $9.05. Buckley & Phillips Aromatics, 03 9735 3755, sales@buckleyandphillips.com, www.buckleyandphillips.com, facebook.com/BuckleyAndPhillips, instagram.com/buckleyandphillips | Maine Beach Mount Macedon Rose collection, wholesales from $4.60 to $18.85. Cocco Corporation, 08 8383 0715, info@stanzee.com.au, www.cocco.com.au, facebook.com/MaineBeach, instagram.com/mainebeachofficial | Age revitalising eye defence cream, retails for $88. Enbacci, 03 9041 2167, customerservice@enbacci.com, www.enbacci.com | Advanced beard kit, retails for $220. Milkman, 02 9712 8889, admin@milkmanaustralia.com, www.milkmanaustralia.com, facebook.com/milkmanaustralia, instagram.com/milkmanaustralia 80

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bed & bath

Men’s boxer short, wholesale for $15.90 each. Gingerlilly, 03 9329 2223, sales@gingerlilly.com.au, www.gingerlilly.com.au, facebook.com/gingerlillysleepwear, instagram.com/gingerlillysleepwear | Kellerbursten hair brush, wholesales for $10.90. Heaven in Earth, 02 4423 2041, wholesale@heaveninearth.com.au, www.heaveninearth.com.au, facebook.com/HeaveninEarthhomewares, instagram.com/heaveninearth | Beauty & travel accessories, retail up to $50. Louvelle, louvellewear.com.au, facebook.com/louvellewear, instagram.com/louvellewear | Onkaparinga Florence sheet set, prices on request. William A McNeil & Co, 03 8390 3333, sales@mcneil.com.au, www.onkaparinga.com.au, facebook.com/onkaparinga, instagram.com/onkaparinga_home | Onkaparinga Maddison sheet set, prices on request.

William A McNeil & Co, 03 8390 3333, sales@mcneil.com.au, www.onkaparinga.com.au, facebook.com/onkaparinga, instagram.com/onkaparinga_home | Bath Blend, wholesales for $11.40. Short Story, 03 9738 1906, marketing@shortstory.com.au, www.shortstory.com.au, facebook.com/shortstoryhome, instagram.com/shortstoryhome January 2018  81

at home Decorative, contemporary and classic homewares for all lifestyle choices

Amal Links Morocco criss-cross wool & palm stool, wholesales for $45. Content Imports, 0418 143 950, contentimports@hotmail.com, www.contentimports.com.au | Kalhu Wall of Frames, wholesales for $80.36. Corban & Blair, 02 9560 0122, info@corbanblair.com.au, corbanblair.com.au/, facebook.com/corbanblair/, instagram.com/corbanblair/ | Silver clock, wholesales for $14.50. DWBH Homewares, 07 3907 7567, info@dwbh.com.au, www.dwbh.com.au, facebook.com/dwbhhomewares/, instagram.com/dwbh_homewares/ | NF Living velvet basic cushions, wholesale from $13.95 to $17.95. Nicholas Agency & Co, 02 9579 2200, sales@nf.net.au, www.nf.net.au, facebook.com/NF-Living-223048861162437/, instagram.com/nicholas_agency/ 82

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Max Benjamin classic diffuser, wholesales for $34.34. CWM Homewares, 03 9765 5700, marketing@cwmhomewares.com.au, www.cwmhomewares.com.au | Pink Blocks 2 Art print x-large, retails for $119. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com/, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge/ | European Tour candle holders, wholesale for $12.92. Koh Living, info@kohliving.com.au, www.kohliving.com.au | Wall art, homewares & giftwares, prices on request. Rayell, 1300 859 728, sales@rayell.com, www.rayell.com, facebook.com/rayellgifts, instagram.com/rayell__/ | Set of 2 spring flower oval pots, wholesales for $39.

Terracotta Clayworks, 07 3376 7437, orders@terracottaclayworks.com.au , terracottaclayworks.com.au/, facebook.com/terracottaclayworks/, instagram.com/terracotta_clayworks/ | Wild collection, wholesales from $2.80 to $6. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia January 2018  83

Chloe labrador retriever statue, prices on request. Anjian Australia, 03 9544 9918, teresa@anjian.com.au, www.anjian.com.au | Menu Carrie LED lamp, wholesales for $161. Design Mode International, 02 9998 8200, sales@designmode.com.au, www.designmode.com.au, facebook.com/DesignModeInternational, instagram.com/designmodeau | Monstera Leaf &Jungle slip-in albums, wholesale from $13.61 for 200 photos. ProďŹ le Products Australia, 02 9476 4568, sales@profileproducts.com.au, www.profileproducts.com.au, facebook.com/ProfileAustralia, instagram.com/ProfileAustralia | Botanical cushion, prices on request. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia | Allen Designs designer planter pots, wholesale from $17.95 to $19.95. Rikaro, 03 9587 9554, wsales@rikaro.com.au, www.rikaro.com.au | Signature Collection Veneto metal frames, wholesale from $13.61. ProďŹ le Products Australia, 02 9476 4568, sales@profileproducts.com.au, www.profileproducts.com.au, facebook.com/ProfileAustralia, instagram.com/ProfileAustralia | Blue Stairs art print x-large, retails for $119. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com/, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge/ | Buddy Pot, retails from $49. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com/, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge/ | Bloomsbury cushion & Hinterland charcoal throw, wholesale for $26 and $35 respectively. Madras Link, 03 9490 0600, showroom@madraslink.com.au, www.madraslink.com,facebook.com/MadrasLinkHomewares, instagram.com/madraslink 84

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Batman Collection, wholesales from $127.25 to $340.89. Royal Selangor, 03 8797 0750, sales.au@royalselangor.com.au, www.royalselangor.com, facebook.com/RoyalSelangor, instagram.com/royalselangor | Marvel miniature figurines & lapel pins, wholesale from $9.07 to $22.70. Royal Selangor, 03 8797 0750, sales.au@royalselangor.com.au, www.royalselangor.com, facebook.com/RoyalSelangor, instagram.com/royalselangor | Monstera and Palm Leaf framed canvas, wholesale for $24 each. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia IHAad_Australian GiftGuide_185X135.qxp_Layout 1 11/8/17 3:18 PM Page 1

2018 10 – 13 March Chicago, USA

I attended my first International Home + Housewares Show this year and was so impressed with the scale and organisation of the whole experience. Not only was every major supplier represented but the Show was extremely well run: from the hotel shuttles to the mobile app, to the informative volunteers, we navigated the entire large event without any delays or problems. The seminars were varied, inspirational and informative, and I would highly recommend attending any of these.

Lucy Given, Owner LUC. Design

Show information and free online pre-registration: www.housewares.org For more information, please contact the IHA Australia & New Zealand representative: Robert Parker, Tel: +61 419 330447, robert@rpmi.com.au

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MADE EASY From food preparation to table presentation, all the latest tools for the kitchen

Zwilling whistling kettle, wholesales for $82. DKSH Australia, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Beeswax wraps, wholesale from $11.36 to $22.73. Queen B, 02 9905 1188, thehive@queenb.com.au, www.queenb.com.au, facebook.com/QueenBcandles, instagram.com/queenbcandles | Maison Balzac J’ai Soif carafe & glass, retails for $69. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge | Broome cheese set, wholesales for $24. Madras Link, 03 9490 0600, showroom@madraslink.com.au, www.madraslink.com, facebook.com/MadrasLinkHomewares, instagram.com/madraslink 86

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Lock & Lock glass water bottle, wholesales for $16. DKSH Australia,, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Ecosoulife salad bowl with cutting board, wholesales for $15.50. Ecolife International,, 03 9568 4222, info@ecosoulife.com, ecosoulife.com, facebook.com/EcoSouLifeR, instagram.com/eco.soulife | Ceramic mugs, wholesale for $10.50 each. Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Frank Green reusable smart cup, retails for $34.95. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge | Sesame Street dunk mugs Cookie Monster, Elmo or Oscar, wholesale for $14.95 each. Jasnor(Australia), 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Salt&Pepper Miami range, wholesales from $16.35 to $24.50. Bambis, 1800 246 987, service@bambis.com.au, www.saltandpepper.com.au, facebook.com/SaltandPepperHome, instagram.com/saltandpepperhome January 2018

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Bread bag, wholesales for $10.50. 4MyEarth, 0400 210 468, sales@4myearth.com.au, www.4myearth.com.au, facebook.com/4myearth, instagram. com/4myearth | Edible cookie dough, retails for $8.99. Cookie Doh Co, www.cookiedoh.co | Matchmates coasters, wholesale for $3.30 each. Cooee Brands, 02 8040 2776, sales@cooeebrands.com.au, www.cooeebrands.com.au | Broome Cane salad servers, wholesale for $25. Madras Link, 03 9490 0600, showroom@madraslink.com.au, www.madraslink.com, facebook.com/MadrasLinkHomewares, instagram.com/madraslink | Heaven in Earth flat whisk, wholesales for $6.50. Heaven in Earth, 02 4423 2041, wholesale@heaveninearth.com.au, www.heaveninearth.com.au, facebook. com/HeaveninEarthhomewares, instagram.com/heaveninearth | Cole & Mason Sherwood gift set, wholesales for $40. DKSH Australia, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Salt&Pepper Madeira range, wholesales from $10.90 to $43.60. Bambis, 1800 246 987, service@bambis.com.au, www.saltandpepper.com.au, facebook.com/SaltandPepperHome, instagram.com/saltandpepperhome | AUS-ION wrought iron sauteuse pan, retails from $109.95. Solidteknics, 0423 436 723, kara.wright@solidteknics.com, solidteknics.com, facebook.com/solidteknics, instagram.com/solidteknics | Gold Cloud on a black round medium tray, wholesales for $82. Whitelaw & Newton, 02 9489 9991, info@whitelawnewton.com, www.whitelawnewton.com, facebook.com/whitelawnewton, instagram.com/whitelawandnewton 88

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Gifts of Inspiration for You!

Allen Designs cotton aprons, wholesale for $12.65 each. Rikaro, 03 9587 9554, wsales@rikaro.com.au, www.rikaro.com.au | Mugs to Give, wholesale for $5.95 each. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia | Ohh Deer mug, wholesales for $9.

Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, instagram.com/vevoke

www.anjian.com.au ABN: 72 145 991 260 1 Murdock Street, Clayton South VIC 3169 • Tel: (03) 9544 9918 Fax: (03) 9543 9919 • Email: info@anjian.com.au “Wholesaler since 1993 of TradiTional & conTemporary GifTs focusinG on The mind, Body & spiriT”

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Snack Pocket, wholesales for $6. 4MyEarth, 0400 210 468, sales@4myearth.com.au, www.4myearth.com.au, facebook.com/4myearth, instagram.com/4myearth | Franklin mugs, wholesale for $5.42 each. CWM Homewares, 03 9765 5700, marketing@cwmhomewares.com.au, www.cwmhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/ecologyhomewares, instagram.com/ecologyhomewares | Tala bakeware, wholesales from $6.70 to $14.70. DKSH Australia, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Alessi Michael Graves kettle, wholesales for $154.50.

Design Mode International, 02 9998 8200, sales@designmode.com.au, www.designmode.com.au, facebook.com/DesignModeInternational, instagram.com/designmodeau | Eva Solo glass decanter carafe, retails for $115. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge | AUX Steam+Grill, wholesales for $113. Living and Dining, 03 9810 4565, info@livinganddining.com.au, www.livinganddining.com.au, instagram.com/livinganddiningaus | William Morris Bottle Chiller, wholesales for $159.07. Royal Selangor, 03 8797 0750, sales.au@royalselangor.com.au, www.royalselangor.com, facebook.com/RoyalSelangor, instagram.com/royalselangor | AUS-ION wrought iron wok range, retails from $179.95. Solidteknics, 0423 436 723, kara.wright@solidteknics.com, solidteknics.com, facebook.com/solidteknics, instagram.com/solidteknics | Beauty design range, retails from $349 to $549. ShervinVerkil, 0418 884 651, sales@shervinverkil.com.au, www.shervinverkil.com.au, www.facebook.com/ShervinVerkil, www.instagram.com/shervinverkil 90

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Ecology Avoca cup & saucer, wholesales for $11.38. CWM Homewares, 03 9765 5700, marketing@cwmhomewares.com.au, www.cwmhomewares.com.au, facebook.com/ecologyhomewares, instagram.com/ecologyhomewares | Marcato Regina wellness pasta & macaroni machine, wholesales for $85. DKSH Australia, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Ecosoulife bio sip cup, wholesales for $6.90. Ecolife International, 03 9568 4222, info@ecosoulife.com, ecosoulife.com, facebook.com/EcoSouLifeR, instagram.com/eco.soulife | Menu bottle grinders with walnut lid, wholesale for $64. Design Mode International, 02 9998 8200, sales@designmode.com.au, www.designmode.com.au, facebook.com/DesignModeInternational, instagram.com/designmodeau | Wooden hot mats, four pieces wholesale for $ 14.98. Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Inspired design range, retails from $349 to $549. ShervinVerkil, 0418 884 651, sales@shervinverkil.com.au, www.shervinverkil.com.au, facebook.com/ShervinVerkil, instagram.com/shervinverkil | Scroll black metal cookbook stand, wholesales for $16.50. Terracotta Clayworks Australia, 07 3376 7437, orders@terracottaclayworks.com.au , terracottaclayworks.com.au, facebook.com/terracottaclayworks, instagram.com/terracotta_clayworks | Silver Leaf on a navy blue square tray, wholesales for $88. Whitelaw & Newton, 02 9489 9991, info@whitelawnewton.com, www.whitelawnewton.com, facebook.com/whitelawnewton, instagram.com/whitelawandnewton | The Borobi Collection, wholesales for $22. Sweet Themes, 1300 848 514, enquiries@sweetthemes.com.au, www.sweetthemes.com.au, facebook.com/SweetThemesPtyLtd, instagram.com/sweetthemesptyltd January 2018

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OUTSIDE IN The latest pet and backyard products to enjoy the great outdoors

Colourful windmill, wholesales for $54. Alfresco Gardenware, 03 9490 1575, service@alfrescogardenware.com, www.alfrescogardenware.com, facebook.com/AlfrescoGardenware | Kamilaroi Rarities boomerang range, wholesales from $3.75 to $9.05. Cooee Brands, 02 8040 2776, sales@cooeebrands.com.au, www.cooeebrands.com.au | Regal Garden DĂŠcor mini solar poppy stake & mini solar dragonfly stake, wholesale for $13.65 each. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Cuckoos Nest bird house, wholesales for $45. Think Outside, 02 8824 4488, sales@thinkoutside.biz, www.thinkoutside.biz, facebook.com/thinkoutsidetos, instagram.com/think.outside 92

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Ecosoulife barbeque set, wholesales for $10.70. Ecolife International, 03 9568 4222, info@ecosoulife.com, ecosoulife.com, facebook.com/EcoSouLifeR, instagram.com/eco.soulife | Tropical Paradise range, wholesales from $3.48 to $10.98. Ginger Lifestyle, shop@gingerlifestyle.com.au, www.gingerlifestyle.com.au | Regal Garden DĂŠcor solar flamingo stake, wholesales for $27.25. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, enquiry@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS | Beverage tub on stand, wholesales for $52. Terracotta Clayworks, 07 3376 7437, orders@terracottaclayworks.com.au, terracottaclayworks.com.au, facebook.com/terracottaclayworks, instagram.com/terracotta_clayworks | Rub A Dub Tub Planter, wholesales from $135. Think Outside, 02 8824 4488, sales@thinkoutside.biz, www.thinkoutside.biz, facebook.com/thinkoutsidetos, instagram.com/think.outside | Briers lavender garden range, wholesales from $15 to $38.

Products of Excellence, 02 9939 0566, sales@gardenproducts com.au January 2018

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MUM’s

THE WORD Lovely gifts for her special day

Vandoros Chloe wrapping paper, wholesales from $45. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging | Bloomin Beautiful collection, wholesales for $12.20. Conscious Candle, 08 9498 1452, sales@consciouscandleco.com.au, consciouscandleco.com.au | Mother’s Day range, prices on request.

Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia | Motherhood soothing bath salts, wholesales for $15.12. Aromababy Natural Skincare, 03 9464 0888, info@aromababy.com, www.aromababy.com, facebook.com/AromababyOrganicBabySkincare, instagram.com/aromababy_official 94 giftguideonline.com.au

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ColourAway cockatoo apron, wholesales for $15. Axis Toys, 02 9986 3456, paulaopfer@axistoys.com, www.axistoys.com, facebook.com/AxisToys/, instagram.com/axis_toys/ | NF Living Angels on Rocks figurines, wholesale from $5.50 to $9.95. Nicholas Agency & Co, 02 9579 2200, sales@nf.net.au, www.nf.net.au, facebook.com/NF-Living-223048861162437, instagram.com/nicholas_agency/ | Orbit protect, prices on request.

HButler, 02 9114 9288, harmony@hbutler.co, www.findorbit.com, facebook.com/findorbit, instagram.com/findorbit | Mother’s Day collection, wholesales from $3.94 to $7.50. Tamboril, 03 9646 6468, julia@tamboril.com.au, www.tamboril.com.au, facebook.com/tamborilgift, instagram.com/tamborilgift | Salt&Pepper Palias range, wholesales from$8.15 to $32.70. Bambis, 1800 246 987, service@bambis.com.au, www.saltandpepper.com.au, facebook.com/SaltandPepperHome, instagram.com/saltandpepperhome | Vandoros Woodland baby and jelly wrapping paper, wholesales from $45. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging January 2018

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Birthstone angels, prices available on request. Anjian Australia, 03 9544 9918, info@anjian.com.au, www.anjian.com.au | Triple scented pure soy candles with bonus calico bag, wholesales for $14.95. Conscious Candle, 08 9498 1452, sales@consciouscandleco.com.au, consciouscandleco. com.au | Oasis Shimmer Stainless Steel insulated drink bottle, wholesales for $10.50. Donaldson Enterprises, 07 3348 1111, sales@donaldson.com. au, www.donaldson.com.au, facebook.com/DonaldsonEnterprises, instagram.com/donaldsonenterprises | Fluffy slides, wholesale for $18 each.

Gingerlilly, 03 9329 2223, sales@gingerlilly.com.au, www.gingerlilly.com.au, facebook.com/gingerlillysleepwear, instagram.com/gingerlillysleepwear | Marimekko Pieni Unikko red apron, retails for $69. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge | East of India ring holder, wholesales for $9.05. Heaven in Earth, 02 4423 2041, wholesale@heaveninearth.com.au, www.heaveninearth.com.au, facebook.com/HeaveninEarthhomewares, instagram.com/heaveninearth | Umlaut Brooklyn greeting cards, retail from $5.50 to 6.99. Spirit Publishing, 02 8354 0091, mail@spiritpublishing.biz, www.spiritpublishing.biz, facebook.com/spiritpublishing, instagram.com/spirit.humour | Peonies Sentiment plaques, wholesale for $4.33 each. Kelly Lane, 07 5534 6844, enquiries@kellylaneart.com, www.kellylane.com.au, facebook.com/KellyLaneHomewares, instagram.com/kellylanehomewares | The Art of Cats, wholesales from $2.80. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/sploshaustralia 96

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Vigar Lulu microfibre mitt, wholesales for $10. DKSH Australia, 02 9425 5000, sales.consumergoods@dksh.com, cg.dksh.com.au | Kreafunk aHead wireless headphones, retail for $175. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com/, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge/ | Marimekko Pieni Unikko oven mitten, retails for $32. Hunting for George, 03 9421 4849, hello@huntingforgeorge.com, www.huntingforgeorge.com/, facebook.com/huntingforgeorge, instagram.com/huntingforgeorge/ | Graphique de France greeting cards, retail from$5.50 to 6.99. Spirit Publishing, 02 8354 0091, mail@spiritpublishing.biz, www.spiritpublishing.biz, en-gb.facebook.com/spiritpublishing/, instagram.com/spirit.humour/ | Masha D’yans greeting cards, retail from$5.50 to 6.99. Spirit Publishing, 02 8354 0091, mail@spiritpublishing.biz, www.spiritpublishing.biz, en-gb.facebook.com/spiritpublishing/, instagram.com/spirit.humour/ | Vandoros Botanica and Coolabah wrapping collections, wholesale from $2.70 for gift tag. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/Vandoros fine packaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging | Emily McDowell mug, wholesales for $9.

Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, instagram.com/vevoke | Neoprene lunch bag, wholesales for $10.

Sue Janson, info@suejanson.com, www.suejanson.com | Papaya waterbottle, wholesales for $27. Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, instagram.com/vevoke January 2018

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trade fair diary brought to you by

Following is a list of forthcoming 2018 trade fairs. Details can change so double check dates and venues before making firm travel plans.

AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND The Retail Quarter Melbourne, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, February 3-6 Life Instyle, Royal Hall of Industries and Hordern Pavilion, Sydney, February 22-25 AGHA Sydney Gift Fair, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, February 24-27 Reed Gift Fairs Sydney, ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney, February 24-28 Autumn Gift & Homeware Fair, ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane, Auckland, New Zealand, March 4-6 Australian Toy Hobby and Licensing Fair, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, March 4-7 Brisbane Gift HQ, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, July 7-9 Décor + Design Melbourne, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, July 19-22 Life Instyle, Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton, Melbourne, August 2-5 AGHA Melbourne Gift Fair, Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre and Melbourne Showgrounds, August 4-8 Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne, Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre and Melbourne Showgrounds, August 4-8 The Retail Quarter Sydney, ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney, September 8-11

ASIA IHGF Delhi Fair Spring, India Expo Centre Expo XXI, Noida, India, February 23-27 Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF), MITEC & PWTC, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, March 8-11 China Beijing Gifts, Premium & Houseware Exhibition, China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China, March 17-19 Sipremium, COEX Exhibition Centre, Seoul, South Korea, March 22-25 BIG+BIH, Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Thailand, April 19-23 Manila FAME, World Trade Centre, Manila, Philippines, April 19-21 Giftionery Taipei, Taipei World Trade Centre, Taiwan, April 19-22 Hong Kong Houseware Fair, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, April 20-23 Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, April 27-30 98 giftguideonline.com.au

Interior Lifestyle Tokyo, Tokyo Big Sight, Japan, May 30-June 1 GIFTEX, Tokyo International Exhibition Centre (Tokyo Big Sight), Tokyo, Japan, July 4-6 Singapore Gifts & Premiums Fair, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, July 18-20 Gifts World Expo, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India, August 10-12

UNITED KINGDOM Top Drawer Spring, Olympia, London, January 14-16 Spring Fair Birmingham, NEC Birmingham, February 4-8 Pulse, Olympia, London, May 13-15

EUROPE Maison&Objet, Paris Nord Villepinte, France, January 19-23 Oslo Design Fair, Norway Trade Fairs, Lillestrøm, Norway, January 24-26 HOMI Milano, Fiera Milano, Milan, Italy, January 26-29 Paperworld, Frankfurt am Main, Germany, January 27-30 Intergift & Giftrends Madrid, Feria de Madrid, Spain, January 31-February 3 Spielwarenmesse, International Toy Fair, Exhibition Centre, Nuremberg, Germany, January 31-February 4 Formland, MCH Messecenter Herning, Denmark, February 1-4 Ambiente, Frankfurt am Main, Germany, February 9-13 Forma Spring, Helsinki Fair Centre, Finland, March 2-4 Cadeaux Leipzig, Exhibition Centre Leipzig, Germany, March 3-5 Papergift, Feira Internacional de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal, March 15-18 Tendence, Frankfurt am Main, Germany, June 30-July 3 Formland, MCH Messecenter Herning, Denmark, August 16-19

NORTH AMERICA Seattle Gift Show, Washington State Convention Centre, Seattle, January 20-23 Toronto Gift Fair, Toronto International Centre, Toronto, January 28-February 1 NY Now, Jacob K Javits Centre, New York, February 3-7 California Marketplace, Los Angeles Convention

Centre, Los Angeles, February 23-26 Alberta Gift Fair, Edmonton Expo Centre Northlands, Edmonton, Alberta, February 25-28 International Home & Housewares Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, March 10-13 ASD Market Week, Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las Vegas, March 11-14

AUSTRALIAN TRADE FAIR ORGANISATIONS Australian Gifts and Homewares Association (AGHA), 1300 441 384, contact@agha.com.au Reed Gift Fairs, 02 9422 2500, reedgift@infosalons.com.au Diversified Exhibitions Australia, 03 9261 4500, retail@divexhibitions.com.au Life Instyle, 02 9422 2552, info@lifeinstyle.com.au Fair Events, 02 9452 7575, info@expertiseevents.com.au For more information about overseas trade fairs, contact the trade commission, consulate or embassy of the country in which you are interested or visit www.eventseye.com

advertiser index AGHA 23 Anjian Australia

89

Apsley & Company

59, 67

Artiwood Australia

47

Cool Coconut

IBC

Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts 43 Gatto & Co

65

Gibson Importing

5, 7, 9

Import Ants

75

International Housewares Association 85 Jasnor (Australia)

OBC, 2,3

Lisa Pollock

cover

Messe Frankfurt

51

Shervin Verkil

53

Sweet Themes

89

Splosh Australia 31,33,35, 37,39,54, 55 Vandoros Fine Packaging

71