Spring Fair, which celebrates its 75th anniversary at the NEC Birmingham on 2nd – 5th February 2025, is delighted to announce twelve new winners of Theo Paphitis's #SBS Small Business Sunday initiative who each receive a free stand at the February show. Since 2018, the TV dragon and #SBS Small Business Sunday creator and Spring and Autumn Fair have joined forces to support start-up businesses. Together they have worked with over 60 SMEs, playing a vital role in their future success.
Posted: 15 October 2024
"As I sit down to reflect on the past two decades, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride at the journey Laura Darrington Design has taken," shares owner Laura. "What began as a simple idea after graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2000 has grown into something far greater than I ever could have imagined. This year marks the 20th anniversary of my business, and I couldn't be more thrilled to celebrate this milestone with the people who have been with me every step of the way."
Laura continues...
Posted: 2 September 2024
The UK Jewellery, Silverware and Allied Crafts industry welcomes the appointment of Lisa Nandy MP and Sir Chris Bryant MP as new Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and Minister of State (DCMS), respectively.
In letters to both ministers, the industry-wide group expressed its desire to continue open communications with the government to help drive the jewellery, silverware and allied trades forward.
Back in February, then shadow minister Sir Chris Bryant approached the National Association of Jewellers to host an industry-wide roundtable to better understand the industry's challenges, needs and opportunities. 25 individuals representing businesses and institutions throughout the breadth of the trade came together to outline the state of the industry and, in collaboration, its future direction.
Posted: 26 August 2024
After a successful transition phase, the consumer goods trade fairs Christmasworld and Creativeworld have a new show director. On 1st August 2024, Stefan Schopp took over from Eva Olbrich, who commenced her well-deserved retirement at the end of July. With the Conzoom Circle network, Messe Frankfurt links the most important international platforms for the global consumer goods and retail industry and bundles industry knowledge and expertise.
Posted: 22 August 2024
James Skidmore, Director of Consulting at Valpak, explained that the PackFlow 2023 reports, commissioned by WRAP, show that, for most materials, the amount of packaging placed on the market has decreased compared to 2019. He added: "As we approach the full implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR), accurate data and baselines are more important than ever. The reports, which are used by UK governments to inform packaging policy, also offer valuable insights into packaging market trends.
Posted: 7 August 2024
Literacy Capital has announced the appointment of Penny Grivea as its new CEO for Ashleigh & Burwood, their consumer Home Fragrance brand. Ashleigh & Burwood has a 30 year heritage.
Penny Grivea brings 25 years of consumer and retail experience to the brand, having previously worked for Selfridges, Harrods and Georg Jensen. For the last 9 years she's headed up the Beauty and Home multinational Rituals in the UK and IE; establishing the business and leading their expansion from 7 to 80 stores.
"We are thrilled to welcome Penny to the Ashleigh & Burwood team," said Paul Pindar at Literacy Capital."
Posted: 5 August 2024
The trend areas of the leading consumer goods trade fairs now have digital twins: 360° images of Ambiente and Christmasworld Trends 24+ enable users to discover new trends all year round - and order them directly. Via Conzoom Solution, the content hub specifically for retailers, users can now get inspired by Ambiente and Christmasworld Trends 24+ all year round. In addition, embedded information tags provide details to the exhibition products and link directly to the exhibitor profile for ordering.
Posted: 27 June 2024
Iconic high-street stationer Ryman has opened a new Ryman Design Store in Edinburgh, Scotland. The store is the latest addition to a growing number of Ryman Design stores across the UK, following the opening of the London Bishopsgate in June 2023, and London Marble Arch and Birmingham Grand Central stores later last year. Located in Edinburgh's St James Quarter, the store is a one-stop shop for stationery enthusiasts and professionals looking for unique, high-quality products.
Posted: 20 June 2024
ACID has announced the appointment of Laura Newbold Breen as its new Chief Executive Officer.
With a background in IP, Laura will open a new chapter of growth, development, and innovation for ACID.
ACID is dedicated to safeguarding the original work of creators, providing robust support and advocacy to ensure their intellectual property rights are protected. The organisation's approach has been a trailblazer in the IP landscape, establishing it as a trusted ally for designers, IP creators, and entrepreneurs.
Dids Macdonald OBE., ACID's Co-founder said, "I am confident that Laura will bring a wealth of experience and a dynamic vision to ACID. With her impressive experience in intellectual property, including leadership roles in the famous "Trunki" brand, she is well-equipped to build on ACID's legacy."
Posted: 4 June 2024
The Gift Card and Voucher Association (GCVA) has announced the appointment of Dr Hannah Shimko as its new Managing Director.
Dr Shimko brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having served as Chief Executive Officer at the Online Dating and Discovery Association and Head of Policy and Communications at The Heritage Alliance.
Dr Hannah Shimko's selection for this pivotal role was based on her extensive skills and experience in managing the diverse activities of trade associations. Her track record of successfully leading teams, growing memberships, and championing initiatives aligns seamlessly with the GCVA's vision for the future.
Commenting on Dr Shimko's appointment, Siobhan Moore and Adam Hobbs (GCVA Executive Co-Chairs) stated, "Hannah's skills and experience were just what we were looking for."
Posted: 20 May 2024
