Gift Focus inc Attire Accessories - Page number 39 - September/October 2021

39 COMPANY PROFILE CINNAMON AITCH +44 (0)121 773 6833 www.cinnamonaitch.co.uk strength to strength. With complementing lip balms now added to the range we are building a strong reputation within the gift market, becoming synonymous with contemporary design, produced with quality in the UK and a strong environmental ethos. Do you keep an eye on trends? Our designs are kept relevant for today’s consumer by keeping a close eye on current trends that surround us, be it retail, fashion, interiors or illustration. We are constantly inspired by nature and our surroundings, something which has become very domestic over the last year, largely working from home. This has resulted in the creation of the popular card range ‘Margo,’ which focuses on pets’ personalities within the domestic arena, something that has resonated with many of us over lockdown. What sets you apart from others on the market? It is as important as ever to keep on top of what’s new and current and continuously renew and refresh our designs. Buyers are always looking for beautiful, well made, British products that will draw customers in. Our core business are the independent retailers and we appreciate wholeheartedly the challenges they currently face. We have turned away the offer to supply many of the large grocery stores in order to support our independent customers who need products that are unique and can’t be found on every supermarket shelf. This may seem like a poor commercial decision to some but it’s important to us and sometimes it’s what you don’t do that counts. Anything else to add? We believe that the past year, though challenging, has made us stronger. Though it has not been without its stresses or financial burdens it has given us the opportunity to reflect, take hold of the business and refocus. There remain challenges and the UK retail climate is still precarious but we have determination, resilience and more importantly a never ending passion and love for the work that we do.