Gift Focus - Mar/Apr 2018 (Issue 106)

The atmosphere was buoyant at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring in Glasgow, which took place from 21 st - 23 rd January. Despite some terrible Scottish weather with snow, rain and gales, retailers were keen to place orders and be inspired with new products, following the highly successful 2017 season. Praise was given to the high quality of products and exhibitors that make up Scotland’s Trade Fair, which has improved dramatically over the last decade. Gone are the days of ‘tartan tat’ and many visitors commented on the incredibly high quality, well designed and inspirational products that graced almost all stands. Textiles and clothing was a growth area for the 2018 Show and was warmly welcomed. The Best Product Awards were judged at the opening of the show with the judges praising the innovation and strength of the entries. Judge Gemma McQue buyer from National Trust for Scotland said, “The entries were very strong and varied and we were particularly struck by the quality and production of the home-produced items. Packaging and presentation is all-important and many have this spot on.” LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT 2018 AT SCOTLAND’S TRADE FAIR HOMI, the Fiera Milano trade show dedicated to lifestyles, has closed with 82,300 professional visitors of which 17 per cent were from abroad. This Homi edition was focused on quality and creativity, showcasing many rare innovative pieces. “HOMI confirms to be an event full of quality content,” declared Fabrizio Curci, CEO of Fiera Milano – an effective platform that generates business and knowledge around the reference industries. “This is what makes the trade fair dedicated to lifestyles mature, ready to further evolve.” This edition welcomed 1,463 exhibitors, 25 per cent of which from 39 countries, with Spain, France, Germany, Greece and India being the most widely represented nations. Some delegates, such as those of Iran and Argentina, had the opportunity to liaise with Italian and international markets, showcasing artisan products of excellence and enhancing the value of their culture and traditions. Save the date for HOMI’s next edition, which will take place at fieramilano from 14 th to 17 th September, 2018. ITALIAN FLAIR AND SOPHISTICATION AT HOMI Readers’ poll What we’ve learnt from the latest reader poll at giftfocus.com We asked: How would you rate 2017’s festive season for sales? You said: Extremely busy – 18% Good – 21% Not as busy as previous years but still ok – 41% Terrible – 21% Congratulations! The winner of our November/December competition is John Mcinally from Not Socks Again in Penarth. He’s won more than £500 RRP worth of Puckator products. To win more than £500 RRP worth of Rosa Red jewellery, please turn to page 99. Launch Gallery Gold - Love Scottish Candles - candles Silver - More-2-Explore - child adventure belt Bronze - Hey Ewe - range of cards, bags and gifts Clothing & Textiles Gold - Blockart - scarf Silver - Eribe Knitwear - wrap Bronze - Green Grove Weavers - blanket Home & Giftware Gold - Rupert Blamire Ceramics - Highland cow chopping board Silver - Dragonfly Dichroic - glass gifts Bronze - Esscentual Candles - candle Jewellery & Fashion Accessories Gold - Two Skies Ltd - leaf jewellery Silver - Cath Waters - bangle Bronze - Leather Guild - bag Scotland’s best product award winners: giftfocus 11 news & events

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