Show News: Industry news from Gift Focus magazine

Dates announced for Scotland Trade Fair Spring

Over three quarters of all stands are already secured for Scotland's Trade Fair Spring which takes place from 21st-23rd January 2024 at the SEC, Glasgow. With a healthy re-booking, on top of what hopes to be one of the busiest tourist seasons ever, the Show is looking to be a smasher of a Show. The Show will feature the best of what Scotland has to offer in terms of gifts, homeware, fashion, textiles, jewellery and crafts. A clearer identification system for Scottish producers will also ensure easier navigation around the show.

Posted: 13 October 2023

Just Around the Corner SS24 a roaring success

Just Around the Corner (JATC) SS24 saw the show's debut in Wapping's Tobacco Dock event space. The venue's stunning aesthetics, a series of stunning wood beamed halls with oodles of natural light with excellent accessibility for both buyers and brands all connected with an outdoor courtyard housing JATC's baristas serving up their complimentary delectable treats for everyone to savour throughout the day. Buyers from independents and keys alike came out in force and perused the products on show, which included over X40 brands new to JATC...

Posted: 11 October 2023

JFS 2024 registration opens unveiling new brands, new products and a new visitor experience!

Registration is now open for the January Furniture Show (JFS) which is set to make a triumphant return to the NEC Birmingham on the 21-24th January.

The 2024 edition of the highly anticipated show is introducing a host of new exciting additions which will enhance visitors' experience and sourcing process.

Returning in full force across 4 halls at the NEC Birmingham, JFS will welcome over 400 exhibitors along with over 20,000 of the UK's most important buyers including senior decision makers from key retailers.

Plus, for the 2nd year running the Home Interiors Show will be taking over Hall 2 with the best interior accessories and lighting options.

Posted: 11 October 2023

The GA and Hilton Hotel Group join forces

The Giftware Association is thrilled to announce a new and mutually beneficial partnership with the prestigious Hilton Hotel Group. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the company's ongoing efforts to provide unparalleled benefits to its esteemed members. The Hilton is a globally recognized hospitality brand known for its exceptional service and luxurious accommodations. Through this exciting collaboration, valued members will now have access to exclusive discounts, complimentary access, and special offers at the following Hilton sites: Hilton Birmingham Metropole, Hilton London Olympia and Hilton London Canary Wharf.

Posted: 2 October 2023

Women In Furniture Network announces three upcoming event dates!

The Women In Furniture Network (WIFN) is excited to announce three upcoming events across the UK. All centred round empowering and celebrating women, WIFN unites women from across the furniture and design industry to foster meaningful connections, gaining invaluable insights and inspiring leadership. On the 25th October, WIFN will be coming to Birmingham for their "Mentorship Matters" event, at the Iron House art space. This event will focus on the importance of mentorship in professional growth and will provide attendees with a platform to connect with experienced industry leaders.

Posted: 29 September 2023

Visitor registration open for Toy Fair 2024

Visitor registration is now open for Toy Fair 2024, the UK's largest dedicated toy, game and hobby exhibition. Taking place between the 23rd-25th January 2024 at Olympia London, the show returns to celebrate its 70th anniversary with a sold-out floorplan and extended footprint. Toy Fair is an unrivalled opportunity to forge new business and build on existing relationships. This will be the first opportunity of the year in the UK for visitors to see thousands of exciting new product launches in person across a vast range of categories including licensed toys, construction toys, board games and puzzles, tech toys, plush, arts and crafts, plus many more.

Posted: 28 September 2023

Statement from Autumn Fair on Connect

Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee, owned by Hyve Group, has announced that its connections programme Connect will not be running in 2024, while the business collaborates with the industry and key partners to create better shows and experiences for the future. Exhibitors have been contacted with full details on the adjustments to fees and contract details relating to both Spring and Autumn Fair 2024.

Posted: 26 September 2023

Top Drawer sees double digit visitor growth!

The warm weather couldn't deter eager crowds of buyers from visiting Top Drawer at Olympia London last week, with the season's biggest trend-led retail event closing its doors on a high, having delivered a 10% increase in attendee numbers vs. the same edition last year. Strong pre-registration was reflected in the breadth of visitors across the past 3 days, with a veritable who's who of retailers present, including from the likes of Anthropologie, Argos Asia, ASDA, Avoca, Blue Diamond Garden Centres, Burford Garden Company, Capital Gardens, Card Factory, Cardzone, Clintons, DFS, Dunelm, FatFace, Fenwick, Fortnum & Mason, Frasers Group, Fron Goch Garden Centre, Garsons, Graham and Green, Habitat,

Posted: 20 September 2023

Female empowerment revitalises architecture & design scene

The panel discussion 'Women Leaders in Design: A Conversation with By Design TV' with Esha Gupta, founder and publisher of Design Pataki from India, Molly McGowan, partner of Ennead Architects from the USA, and Shida Salehi, founder and managing director of Customs Bureau from the UK, made it very clear: the international architecture and design industry benefits from female entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. On the one hand, the three pioneers stand for fascinating new projects and unique spatial designs with emotional added value. On the other hand, they convince with a strongly collaborative and inclusive leadership style. A mixture that invigorates the entire industry and is ground-breaking for the next generation.

Posted: 18 September 2023

Tourism brings cheer to the British economy

As we enter autumn and the start of a new school year, tourist resorts around the UK are counting the profits after another booming staycation season. Chief amongst these chosen destinations for holiday makers was the South-West* of England, home to the most important regional event of the trade show calendar, Giving & Living - taking place 14th to 16th January, Westpoint, Exeter.

Posted: 14 September 2023