Gift Focus inc Attire Accessories - Page number 75 - November/December 2021

Highland fling The second in-person show post-pandemic, Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring promises to be a buying event not to be missed Scotland’s Trade Fair returns to the SEC, Glasgow, from 23-25 January, 2022, and is looking forward to bringing suppliers and buyers back together. As the only trade gift show in Scotland, it is not to be missed with its extensive range of innovative suppliers. Scotland’s Trade Fair Online has been busy throughout 2021, keeping 175 suppliers and over 2000 retailers in touch all year with a combination of an online product directory and live product sessions. However, nothing beats an in-person show, which has been seen by the high number of producers seeking out stands for the January show. Around 500 exhibitors will showcase their products across the gift, craft, homeware, jewellery and textiles sectors. From large established companies to newbies, this show offers something for all retailers. NEW TALENT Gain inspiration and new products from the Launch Gallery for young producers that have just begun trading in the last two years, with companies such as Brawbags, Feather and Thistle Candles, Edinburgh Illustrations, Glenstocken Herb and Plant Co and gift producer Tammie Norries. A highlight of this gallery is Agate and Ayre and its wonderful designed homewares and scarves, which recently won the #LaunchWithSTF 2021 competition, judged by industry experts. Newcomers to the show include White Rose Aromatics, Catherine Kleeli Cards & Prints, Art by Lana Mathieson and Wishstrings. These complement the established exhibitors such as Tweedmill Textiles, Siabann, Selbrae House, Pewtermill Crafts, Pink Pig, Isle of Skye Candle Company, Lomond Books, Emma Ball and The Highland Soap Company. The creative Craft Gallery is not to be missed as it’s there that Scottish talent from bespoke producers will be showcased, aimed specifically at craft shops and galleries such as Clarabella Christie, Helen Chatterton Textiles, Tessuti, Olive Pearson designs, Carla Edwards Jewellery, BAKKA and Lynsey Walters Jewellery. BEYOND THE BUYING The show’s Talking Shop zone will provide visitors with insight into current topics such as sustainability, targeting influencers, social media, customer buying habits, own brands and attracting tourists back. There will be a range of informal talks, panel discussions and workshops. Nessie’s Den is also returning, which is where emerging producers will showcase their products to the ‘Nessies’ – well respected retailers, in the mode of the BBC’s Dragon’s Den in an entertaining and exciting session. Best Product Awards will be judged on the opening day with the resulting winners’ products on display in the centre of the show. WHY ATTEND? Scotland’s Trade Fair has evolved over the decades to become a ‘must attend’ event in the calendar of all retailers, farm shops, tourist destinations and department stores. Although online has supplemented the buying process over the last 18 months, retailers are keen to return and actually re-connect with suppliers. Many of the exhibitors only attend this show so it is key to come and see and touch their products and place orders ahead of the competition. The show also promises to be a great networking and sociable event where friendships can be re-kindled and new suppliers sought. Feedback from the September show was that many retailers were delighted to be able to buy in person again. Jilly Wilson from the Square Peg gift shop in Lochgilphead said, “Scotland’s Trade Fair just gets better and better. There is a more positive attitude toward independent local gift shops and a growing support which is giving confidence to the home and gift industry. This has led to a great degree of innovation among producers.” Mark Saunders, Scotland’s Trade Fair Show Director, added, “We are excited that Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring is back as it is the place where many new products are unveiled and 2022 ranges will be launched, orders are placed and friendships made and sealed. Many of the smaller town gift shops have seen a huge growth in sales this year as more people shop local so this Show will be vital for them. “Now more than ever we welcome our exhibitors back who have been tremendously supportive of the show and we can’t wait to re-connect with them and our many buyers too. It promises to be an exciting three days.” IN BRIEF When: 23 th -25 th January, 2022 Where: SEC, Glasgow Who: www.scotlandstradefairs.com 75 SCOTLAND TRADE FAIR SPRING