Gift Focus - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 114)

70 great names as we get closer to the show. The iconic Majestic Hotel, the grounds of which are home to the show’s Design Points, has also been undergoing a dramatic renovation over the past year. We’re thrilled to be unveiling the beautifully refurbished facilities at this year’s Home and Gift. New and returning visitors can enjoy the comfort of the new luxury bedrooms or enjoy a cocktail or two in Frederick’s Piano bar followed by a delicious dinner in the gorgeous Carter’s Champagne Bar and Grill restaurant, making it the perfect place to meet and relax during a busy few days of buying at the show. Who are the must-see newcomers? We have a variety of big names joining the lineup this year, including Premier Decorations, Transomnia, Forma House, Haus, Parlane, Kikkerland, Le Toy Van, S’ip By S’well, Designed in Colour, Tyrell Katz and Caspari. Home and Gift is also a must-visit destination for those seeking emerging talent, with newer sectors such as Taste, Design Now and Craft catering to those seeking innovative new brands and undiscovered design talent for their store offerings. Who are this year’s returning favourites? Home & Gift is held at the perfect time in the buying calendar for brands to launch new products and for buyers to discover bestsellers ahead of their most important retail season. Visitors won’t want to miss Jellycat, Caroline Gardner, Wild & Wolf, Sass & Belle by RJB Stone, Gisela Graham, Joe Davies, Belly Button Designs, Pacific Lifestyle, Nkuku, Grand Illusions, Sophie Allport, Container Group Buying, Heathcote & Ivory, Village Candle and a host of other returning favourites. How can visitors and exhibitors best get involved with the new Match initiative? We want to give visitors and exhibitors every opportunity to connect with one another before, during and after the show. The new Match platform makes it easier than ever before for visitors to explore suppliers on the Home & Gift website and plan pre-arranged on-site meetings through the website’s Visitor Login portal. A new VIP Hosting programme will also run within Match, encouraging those who may not be familiar with Home & Gift to visit the show and explore the great brands and products on offer while enjoying the unique Home & Gift buying experience. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event? 2019 is set to be a great year for Home & Gift and what I’m looking forward to most is seeing wonderful business being done every day throughout the show. The team has been working hard over the past 12 months to deliver an extraordinary event experience for visitors and exhibitors. From the brand selection, product offering and improved layout, to new on-site networking and meeting tools, a hosted buying programme and the inspirational ShopTalk lineup, everything has been crafted to help buyers and suppliers make valuable, meaningful connections. What was your favourite part of last year’s show? Last year’s show will always hold a special place in my heart, as it was my first as show director. I love Home & Gift for the same reasons our exhibitors and visitors do; it’s an event environment like no other, and nothing quite compares to seeing the marquees, halls and grounds of the Majestic Hotel abuzz with activity as orders are being placed, stockists are being discovered and new relationships are being forged. As much as Home & Gift is a crucial buying opportunity for visitors ahead of the Christmas period, it’s also a celebration of our beloved industry. Bringing the perfect balance of business and socialising for nearly 59 years, the show has a unique spirit. Is there anything else visitors should explore while visiting Harrogate? Harrogate is such a beautiful town, and we feel honoured to call it the home of Home & Gift. From picturesque walks and the iconic Turkish Baths to the famous Bettys Tearooms and the great array of restaurants to spots for a late-night drink, there is something for everyone. Visitors should keep an eye out on the Home & Gift website, as special deals for local restaurants, bars and attractions are revealed closer to the show. For more information please visit homeandgift.co.uk