129 INTERVIEW increases in popularity season on season as this element becomes more important to our retailers. Footwear and accessories continues to grow especially with more and more small women’s accessories coming on board. Overview of returning/new brands being showcased? We launched a new women’s zone last season, “The Edit”, to house our more premium brands which proved very successful so expect more from that area in Feb. We have also moved the jewellery brands into Lifestyle and Beauty as this area has had an influx of new exhibitors joining. How can buyers and independent retailers make the most use of JATC? Make sure you keep your eye on the brand line ups via our social channels, newsletters and website (www.justaroundthecorner.co.uk) and plan your visit ahead of arrival so you know which brands you are going to view and so you don’t miss any. Also pre-register via the website so you can get speedy access on arrival. How do you see the future of independent retail? We have seen a huge resurgence in the independent market since Covid which is so pleasing to see. We put this down to people working from home, holidaying in the UK, avoiding shopping and city centres and a general willingness from the consumer to support local and independent businesses. We have also seen a shift in buying patterns as indies diversify their offering to include categories that we have in our Lifestyle and Beauty zones. What are the future plans for the show/company? Continued growth and expansion of exhibitors and zones and a concerted effort to offer the UK trade show calendar something unique and different to what else is on offer. Is there anything you’d like to add? We are exceedingly proud of the fact that the new zone at the London event will give a voice to the carefully curated independent, emerging and niche brands from Beauty, Grooming, Home fragrance, Skincare, Jewellery, Wearable accessories, Home, Seasonal gifting and much more. To date there has never been a B2B platform in the UK for these brands to showcase their wares to buyers from independent and commercial retailers within an accessible priced exhibition.
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