Gift Focus inc Attire Accessories - Page number 43 - November/December 2021

43 UP & COMING designs, really, as the original ones were based on a book of 19th century botanical engravings that I found in my parents’ attic. In terms of the fragrances, I follow my nose (pardon the pun!) and mostly create things that I like. But I’m always looking to expand the range so that I’ve got something for everyone. At the moment I’m developing a candle that’s based on leather, to create a more classically masculine fragrance. What sets you apart from your competitors? We always get a great response to our design and packaging – both men and women love it. I want people to use the packaging around the house; the empty glass holders make great little vases, and I use the outers for everything from holding make up brushes to pens and pencils on my desk. However, I think it’s mainly the fact that our fragrances are really high quality, and we use coconut wax in the candles, which is very eco- friendly – the candles also last for ages. How are you finding the current climate in the UK? Is it affecting business? On the one hand, because people have had to spend so much more time at home, it’s been good for business, as they want their homes to be a sanctuary and they’ve been spending more on interiors. On the other, bricks and mortar retail has obviously suffered with the lockdowns. Also, being unsure about whether big seasonal events are going ahead, such as Spirit of Christmas, makes it tricky with cash-flow and working out how much stock we need. How do you view the future of independent retail post-pandemic? I’m really hoping that people support independent retailers, rather than relying on the convenience of buying online. It’s the independents that give towns and cities their personality and heart. Plus, when you smell the fragrances, and see the packaging in a shop, you obviously get a much better feel for what you’re buying. The range also looks great when it’s all displayed together! Are you active on social media? How is this important for the business? I have an Instagram account – it’s great for showcasing new products and promotions. Do you have any advice for new businesses starting out in the world of gifts? I think do a lot of research in terms of who your target market is going to be, and the products that you’re competing with in your category. What are their price points? What are they doing well? What could you do better? What makes you different? When I launched at Top Drawer I had a lot of talking points about the product, in terms of where I was based, what fragrance and wax I use, the origins of the design and the fact that it’s a family company. I found that made potential retailers interested in the candles, and I also had some fantastic chats! What can we expect in the future from the company? I get a lot of queries about diffusers, so that’s next on the list! I’m researching the packaging for them, so I’m planning to launch those next year. I’d also love to create Collingwood hand cream and liquid soap to expand the range. COLLINGWOOD OF SOMERSET T: +44 (0)7949 653 642 www.collingwoodofsomerset.co.uk