Gift Focus - Nov/Dec 2017 (Issue 104)

96 giftfocus Strengthening ties with Hong Kong Sarah Ward CEO of The GA was once again honoured to attend the Hong Kong Dinner organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. The dinner acts as a celebration between the strong ties and friendships between Hong Kong and the UK. The event was very well attended with The Chief Executive of Hong Kong, The Hon Mrs Carrie Lam, and her first trip outside Hong Kong since becoming Hong Kong’s leader on the 1 st July, 2017. There was a special address by The Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, underlying the importance of the event and the strong links between the two countries. This year the event also brought together more than 550 influential government and business leaders from Hong Kong and the UK for an evening that combined both insight and pleasure. The enduring relationship between Hong Kong and the UK is deeply rooted in our shared history, with the respective commitments to economic and social progress. Hong Kong continues to be a centre of opportunity for some 1,000 UK companies operating in the city, including some of our members, as well as the large number of British nationals residing in Hong Kong. Sarah Ward said of the importance of being invited to the event, “It’s great to be invited to these events and talk about The GA and our members and the great initiatives that we’re up to, with the UK being Hong Kong’s second largest trading partner in Europe, it’s important we keep the relationships strong to allow our members businesses to flourish. The event attracts big such as partners from KPMG UK, Vice President of the Law Society and members from the House of Lords, highlighting the importance of world trade connections and relationships. With the aftermath of Brexit, it’s an area that’s becoming even more attractive to trade in.” An excerpt from Mrs Carrie Lam’s speech said, “Ladies and gentlemen, yes, the best of Hong Kong is yet to come. As the new Chief Executive of Hong Kong, I’m full of confidence and optimism. I have said during my election campaign and on many occasions, as long as we get our act together, adopt a clear vision and embrace the many opportunities in front of us, Hong Kong will scale new heights.” LAUNCHPAD TO SUCCESS The GA is proud to announce not one, but two Giftware Association members, Dr Emma Lawrence and Paper Mirchi who have both found success with the Stationery Show’s new Launchpad competition. Taking two of the six winning positions in the competition celebrating suppliers looking to break into the booming design led stationery market with new and innovative designs. Shropshire-based illustrator and designer, Emma Lawrence has developed range from her range of illustrated books, ‘The Little Nature Explorers.’ The range features designs to educate children about our fascinating and beautiful natural world. Emma said, “I’m thrilled to have won a stand at the Manchester Stationery Show 2017. The whole concept of the Little Nature Explorers books is to encourage children to get outside, explore and develop an early interest in nature. I’m so happy that it’s been recognised by the judges. Being a new company, it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase my new children’s stationery range and to receive support and advice to progress further”. The other winner is Paper Mirchi, for her range of beautifully handcrafted giftwrap which is a new product in the UK market. A qualified textile designer, company owner Rani has developed this stunning giftwrap using traditional techniques like hand marbling and age tested textile processes like tie and dye, batik and block printing. The competition was judged by leading names from the stationery sector: judges Paul Walker and Fred Aldous, joint MDs and stationery buyers for Fred Aldous; Marple Stationery Supplies owner Sarah Laker; Silk Hat Greetings owner Nigel Anderson, and Helen Riley-Ditchfield, designer for Widdop And Co had the difficult task of finalising six entries who will receive a free stand space at the Stationery Show’s inaugural Manchester show and also benefit from extensive marketing and PR support to help out the new businesses. GA news We bring you the very latest n ws from The Giftware Association Further information For The GA, log on to ga-uk.org