Gift Focus - Nov/Dec 2018 (Issue 110)

For information on exhibiting at the 2019 show head to autumnfair.com display everything from artisanal soaps to handmade jewellery. Sharing little more than a penchant for alternative ideas, the innovative DesignFirst exhibitors introduced buyers to a world of new-to-market products. Across key 2018 sectors, Children’s Toys & Gifts and Home, feedback was positive, with exhibitors reporting exciting sales figures and increased interest. Louise Young, managing director of Spring Fair and Autumn Fair said: “Off the back of what was a flat summer of trading for retailers, buyers came ready to be inspired by ranges for the up-and-coming major sell-though periods for retail. It’s simply good news for all of retail that suppliers and retailers have come together to make this year’s Autumn Fair a commercial success for those who visited and exhibited – it’s a good barometer for the Christmas trading period and into spring.” Exhibitors may have also been inspired to secure their spaces for next year in response to the announcement of a major investment programme in Autumn Fair by new owners ITE Plc. The newly organised halls will improve visitor flow and facilitate greater crossover buying opportunities, delivering an Autumn Fair that aims to be the “sourcing destination for all of retail” with content that will encourage multiples to source more private label/own brand with exhibitors at the show. In addition, a new investment programme will focus on increasing attendance from online and international retailers. “Looking forward, Autumn Fair is evolving as we embrace the structural changes in the market,” Young continues. “Consumers have not stopped buying goods, but how they buy has changed. In 2019, both Spring and Autumn Fair are well positioned to continue providing a unique proposition for retailers. With the new re-edit plans, we’re looking at optimising the fair experience for visitors and exhibitors alike, including updating show sectors to present real opportunities for crossover buying and better-enabled networking. As the hub for all of retail, 2019 will offer buyers tangible, profitable insight that will help them stay ahead of the curve.” giftfocus 71 Autumn Fair review