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In normal circumstances I, like so many of you, would currently be gearing up to tread the aisles of Autumn Fair and Top Drawer, as well as all the other amazing trade shows that take place in the UK. However, as the implications of COVID-19 continue to hit the events industry hard, this year’s season isn’t going to take place as normal, with physical shows being replaced with virtual events. And while this isn’t ideal (coronavirus, it’s about time you took your leave), the positive to take from the chaos is the speed in which show organisers created a series of digital offerings, with a plethora of seminars, webinars, retail talks, product showcases and so much more, all available at the click of a button. Of course, we know it’s not the same as touching the items and building relationships in person – and the irreplaceable nature of those parts of the buying process is why we know the show circuit will come back bigger and better – but it’s definitely a wonderful and helpful interim offering. And while we’re looking forward to getting back to normal soon, the increased focus on the virtual offerings will undoubtedly continue to play a key part in the events industry going forward, giving visitors and exhibitors more bang for their buck!

However, while the shows may not be happening, retailers are now open for business, which means stock needs to be bought! To this end we have created features for Autumn Fair and Top Drawer to showcase the exhibitors that would normally have been showing their fabulous wares, check them out on pages 63 and 71 respectively.

Until we meet again, please enjoy the issue!

Louise Prance-Miles, Editor

PS. If you have any news you would like to submit to this site or Gift Focus magazine, please email editor@giftfocus.com