GIFTFOCUS INCORPORATING ATTIRE ACCESSORIES WWW.GIFTFOCUS.COM WWW.ATTIREACCESSORIES.COM SHOW FOCUS Home & Gift Glee Exclusively Housewares B l a o b v y e Gift ideas for little ones COOKING UP A STORM Kitchenware items to stock Planet FRIENDLY Go green with eco products
01747 840499 thewheatbagcompany.co.uk sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk Made in the UK
4 In this issue REGULARS 8 Industry news All the latest from the world of gifts 11 On with the show Trade fair dates and show news 14 Brand spanking new Latest launches and brand-new products 17 Bookstand The latest releases in gift books FEATURES 18 Baby love Gift ideas for little ones 23 Wellness retreat We round-up the best bath and body products 26 Planet friendly Go green with eco products 30 Cooking up a storm Kitchenware items to stock 53 Stylish stationery Jazz up your workstation with these on-trend items 30 May/June 2025 FOCUS ON 35 Scottish Fine Soaps Scottish Fine Soaps has stuck to its core values amidst hard times and is reaping the rewards of an expanded product offering. Hear more from Richard Sloan… 38 Namaste Namaste is dedicated to sourcing beautiful fairly traded products from the far corners of the world, embracing traditional artisan skills 18 26 23
5 CONTENTS SHOWS 42 Creativeworld From 7th to 11th February, Frankfurt once again became the hub of the international consumer goods industry. Here’s what we discovered... 46 Home & Gift Our round-up of what’s to come at Home & Gift, Q3’s ultimate inspiration source 49 Manchester Furniture Show From timeless classics to contemporary designs, Manchester Furniture Show is your chance to explore new collections, discover fresh trends and connect with industry peers all under one roof 51 Exclusively Housewares Retailers can explore top gift brands, trend insights, and exclusive show incentives at the key industry showcase that is the Exclusively Show 52 Glee Glee, the UK’s leading garden and outdoor living trade exhibition, is set to return to the NEC Birmingham from 16th to 18th September 2025 46 BUSINESS ADVICE 32 Finding freedom How can businesses retain their 50+ workforce? Gary Clark, Academy Director at ski instructor course business: SIA Austria, explains 33 FSB FSB’s Tina McKenzie looks at how to navigate the bumpy road from starting, to sustaining a business 56 ACID Dids Macdonald and Faith Capstick look at protecting innovation for giftware designers 52 35 38
7 EDITOR’S LETTER 18 On the cover Cinnamon Aitch has become renowned for beautiful greetings cards and stationer, as well as eco-friendly gifts. All made entirely in the UK, with sustainability at the forefront. www.cinnamonaitch.co.uk Surviving the storm Since his inauguration in January, U.S. President Donald Trump has raised concerns with his on-again/off-again tariffs on goods from countries like Mexico and China. There has been minimal impact for the UK, but murmurs of a global trade war have economists wary about financial stability. The unpredicatable ‘Trump Effect’ is a growing concern for businesses worldwide. However, as an industry, we are nothing if not resilient. Time and again, we have weathered economic storms and emerged stronger. With exceptional products such as those featured in this issue continuing to elevate the market, we can be confident in our ability to thrive, even in uncertain times. On a brighter note, this issue covers a broad spectrum of the market, with a spotlight on eco-friendly products, kitchenware, homeware, and perennial bestsellers like baby gifts and bath & body products. That’s not all – we also bring you an essential guide to upcoming must-visit trade events, including Glee, Exclusively Housewares, and the first of our two previews of Home & Gift. Alongside our regular lineup of company profiles, industry news, exciting new products, and expert business advice, we’re confident this issue has something for everyone. Until next time! Louise Prance Editor Louise DESIGN +44 (0)1376 535 616 artwork@giftfocus.com ACCOUNTS +44 (0)1376 535 616 accounts@giftfocus.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis +44 (0)1376 535 602 sarah.ellis@giftfocus.com Gift Focus and Attire Accessories are solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Gift Focus is published six times a year. ISSN 1758-0897 @giftfocus @giftfocusmag @gift_focus Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated with and supporters of: ADVERTISING Account Manager Loretta Smith +44(0)1376 538 495 loretta.smith @giftfocus.com EDITORIAL Editor Louise Prance +44 (0)1376 514 000 louise.prance@giftfocus.com 26 Louise Prance, Editor 46
Industry news GREETING CARD ASSOCIATION AWAITS GOVERNMENT RESPONSE AS ITS ROYAL MAIL PETITION SURPASSES 10,000 SIGNATURES The Greeting Card Association’s campaign to keep the Royal Mail service reliable, national and affordable, has received a significant boost as its parliamentary petition reached 10,000 signatures. Despite Royal Mail’s claims that it should be allowed to reduce second class postal deliveries to as few as two days per week and cut Saturday deliveries altogether, over 10,000 UK voters have now joined the GCA’s call for proper parliamentary scrutiny of any proposed changes. This petition, which also calls on MPs to regulate the price of first-class mail and mandate the Royal Mail meet existing delivery targets before changing the Universal Service Obligation (USO), must now receive a formal response from the government. The posts highlight the concern caused by the current uncertainty over Royal Mail’s ownership and the threat to the price and reliability of the postal service if they are allowed to dilute the service. Royal Mail has failed to meet delivery commitments outlined in the current USO since 2022 but has consistently raised prices. A first-class stamp is now 75 per cent more expensive than three years ago offsetting the £15m-plus fines levied by Ofcom on Royal Mail for missed delivery targets. The cost of a first-class stamp price is up a staggering 170 per cent over the last decade, and the price rise that took effect on 7th April when the price rose to £1.70, was the sixth in under three years. GCA members believe the proposed weaking of the USO will lead small businesses and consumers to rely on an increasingly unaffordable, uncapped and unregulated firstclass service to ensure cards and important letters are delivered on time. The GCA, which represents over 500 publishers, retailers, agents, specialist suppliers and distributors that make up an industry worth over £1.5bn to the UK economy now awaits the government’s official response to its petition. Amanda Fergusson, chief executive of the GCA said: “Our members are deeply concerned that they’re being railroaded into accepting reforms that will make the Royal Mail service they depend on, less reliable and affordable. “We now look forward to receiving a formal government response to their petition. We know a postal service that’s a mere shadow of the service Royal Mail should be delivering, will cause real damage to small businesses, consumers, high streets and communities.” Catch up on all the latest in our news round up GIFT OF THE YEAR 2025 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED The Giftware Association has unveiled the finalists for the Gift of the Year 2025 awards! After months of anticipation, hundreds of incredible entries, and two rigorous rounds of judging by an esteemed panel of over 120 industry experts, the very best products from the home and gift industry have been selected to move forward in the competition. The Gift of the Year awards celebrate the most exciting, innovative, and commercially successful products across 20 categories covering Home Fragrance, Home and Kitchen and Games and Puzzles as well as introducing new categories’ such at the Made in The UK Category for this year. This year’s competition has been one of the most competitive yet, with judges from leading retailers, trade press, and industry professionals struggling to select their top choices from a truly outstanding pool of over 900 entries. The second round of judging took place at Spring Fair which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and saw hundreds of visitors across the week to view the shortlist, take away a shortlist brochure and see the best new products to be released this year. Chris Workman, PR & Marketing Manager of The Giftware Association, shared his excitement about this year’s finalists: “Each year, we are blown away by the level of talent and creativity, within the home and gift industry, and 2025 has been no exception. It’s nice for me to set up the display and finally see the products in the real life. The Home Fragrance category, along with all the others, but in particular this year has amazed me with its increased innovation, new design led vessels for the candles as well and brilliant new fragrances and box designs really pushing innovation within this sector. The judging panel faced an incredibly tough decision, with so many outstanding products and brands. Congratulations to all the finalists - it’s a huge achievement to be selected, and we can’t wait to reveal the winners At The Gift Awards in May” What’s next? The ultimate winners will be announced at the highly anticipated The Gift Awards. This prestigious event will be held at the Royal Lancaster London, in collaboration with The Greats Gift Retailer Awards, bringing together the biggest names in the industry for a night of celebration. The full list of Gift of the Year 2025 finalists is now available to view at: www.giftoftheyear.co.uk if you click on the finalist tab. The People’s Choice But it’s still not over for the shortlisted brands as they can now push for The People’s Choice Award, which is voted on by the general public, brands audiences and everyone in between. To vote is easy – find your favourite product or category and choose ‘cast my vote’ and it will be taken automatically. Votes for The Peoples Choice will close on 16th May. 8
STOCKWELL CERAMICS PARTNERS WITH GALLERIES ON BESPOKE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Stockwell Ceramics has been working with a number of galleries on a variety of bespoke products. Of particular note was a collaboration with Dulwich Picture Gallery on a highly successful range of ceramic buttons, brooches and drop earrings featuring the beautiful images on display at their current Tirzah Garwood: Beyond Ravilious exhibition. To create these ranges, selections were made from Tirzah Garwood’s stunning experimental marbled papers for which she was widely known during the 1930s. Filling an entire room at the gallery they make a magnificent display. The cropped images were fired onto the ceramic surface and were beautifully captured on the buttons and jewellery that are available at the Gallery gift shop. A collaboration with Jade Starmore, the well-known knitwear designer, has also been a highlight of the year. Jade used a variety of boat buttons from the bikes and boats range in a creative and cohesive way on her beautiful Breton pullover. The ever popular floral and Heritage buttons have also featured in her work and with more plans for the future it is proving a very exciting and creative experience resulting in a variety of new and varied button designs. Mary Goldberg of Stockwell Ceramics says: “It has been very satisfying to continue production of the bespoke drop earrings created in collaboration with the V&A Museum from their beautiful James Leman silk designs as well the William de Morgan earrings with designs taken from the wonderful tile collection which they hold. “Other designs made for the V&A Museum, which have repeated again this year, were those created from the Iran Tiles in the Islamic Middle East collection and Art Deco jewellery adapted from Hilde Wagner-Ascher’s Tapestry-woven woollen carpets. This year so far has been an exciting series of creative adventures into bespoke designs and artistic collaborations.” www.stockwellceramics.com FARM SHOP & DELI RETAILER AWARDS WINNERS UNVEILED On Monday 7th April 2025 the highly anticipated winners of the 2025 Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards were announced, and the prestigious title of Retailer of the Year has been awarded to Delilah Fine Foods Ltd in Nottingham! In an evening at the annual Farm Shop & Deli Show held at the NEC Birmingham, Delilah Fine Foods not only claimed the top honour but also took home the award for Delicatessen of the Year and was recognised as the Midlands Regional Winner. The Awards, presented in partnership with The Grocer and championed by Fieldfare, showcased an impressive lineup of nine category winners, six regional champions, and a highly coveted Newcomer of the Year award. An enthusiastic audience of finalists, visitors, and exhibitors cheered as Delilah Fine Foods Ltd triumphed over fierce competition from across the UK and Northern Ireland. In addition to Delilah Fine Foods Ltd’s accolades, Field to Fork from Henley-In-Arden, Warwickshire, was named the 2025 Newcomer of the Year. This category was fiercely competitive, with Kale & Corn from Belper, Derbyshire, and Must Be Crackers! Cheesemongers from Dunfermline, Scotland, receiving Highly Commended certificates. The awards process involved a rigorous evaluation by a panel of leading experts who meticulously reviewed entries online before convening in November to shortlist contenders. Secret visits during January and February allowed judges to assess nominees firsthand, culminating in the selection of this year’s winners. The coveted accolades celebrate the best specialist independent retailers with judges recognising retailers’ achievements in the independent sector. Nigel Barden, Chairman of Judges and Food and Drink Journalist and Broadcaster, said: “Despite it being a cautious retail market, it’s still been another great year for the Farm Shop & Deli Awards and we are grateful for the quality of the entries and gratified that busy retailers still found time to take part. The quality of our judging panel certainly helps draw businesses in and I was delighted to welcome new judges from the Farm Retail Association. 25 extra visits were made to made to ensure there was no doubt as to who our winners were to be, and this included putting some of our online retailers through their paces. Alongside category winners, we handed out awards for regions, Best Newcomer and Highly Commended, for the very close calls.” Take a look at all the winners here: event.farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/live/en/page/retailerawards-winners-2025 To find out more about Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards, visit https://www.farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/awards. THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH TILDENET GARDENWARE The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has announced a partnership with Tildenet Gardenware, the UK’s leading independent horticultural specialist. The agreement will see the launch of RHS-endorsed products under Tildenet Gardenware’s admired Country Forge brand, a comprehensive range of handcrafted garden structures, hanging baskets and plant supports. Both beautiful and functional, the Country Forge range offers a variety of styles to suit any garden setting. All RHS-endorsed items will carry the highly recognisable RHS logo. Country Forge product distribution will be via independent garden centres and retailers across the UK and online from Tildenet partners. The RHS-endorsed products are available now. INDUSTRY NEWS 9
GIFT CARD SALES DEFY SLUGGISH RETAIL MARKET TO DELIVER DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH Gift card and voucher sales continued to outshine broader retail trends in the second half of 2024, according to the latest research from the Gift Card & Voucher Association (GCVA) and KPMG UK. Data from GCVA’s members shows that in the last six months of 2024, gift card and voucher sales surged by 11.39 percent on a like-for-like basis, marking the first double-digit growth since H1 2021. This strong performance stands in sharp contrast to a tough year for UK retailers, with total retail sales growing by just 0.7 percent during the same period (according to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor). Retailers saw an 11.3 percent uplift in gift card sales, with grocers leading the charge. Sales in the grocery sector soared 20.48 percent, as both employers and consumers turned to food-related gift cards to help manage household budgets amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. The data also reflects the increasing popularity of employer-sponsored gift card schemes, enabling staff to stretch their pay further. The leisure sector continued its impressive run, posting 13.3 percent growth on a like-for-like basis for the seventh consecutive period. Consumers increasingly opted for experience-based gifts despite tightening budgets, highlighting the resilience of leisure gifting. B2B gift card sales remain the primary growth driver, registering a 13.7 percent increase, with employee benefits, savings, and salary sacrifice programmes leading the way. This mirrors the ongoing trend of businesses using gift cards to support staff, offering a practical tool in managing everyday expenses. Digital gift cards also hit a significant milestone. For the first time, they claimed over half (50.3 percent) of market share on a rolling year basis, with sales up 20.6 percent year-on-year. The growth of digital sales underlines shifting consumer habits and the growing demand for flexible, instant gifting options. Despite the growth of digital options, physical gift cards remain popular particularly for festive gifting, with over half (54 percent) of consumer sales from retail stores and 22 percent from gift card malls. Sales from which increased 5.6 percent and 13.6 percent respectively. Commenting on the findings, Hannah Shimko, GCVA Managing Director, said: “This report demonstrates the resilience and versatility of the gift card market. Gift cards are a vital tool helping consumers and businesses navigate challenging times. Whether it’s employers supporting staff through benefits schemes or consumers choosing flexible gifting options, the sector has shown remarkable adaptability. “The strong growth we’re seeing, shows that amidst wider retail struggles, gift cards remain an essential part of the UK’s shopping landscape for consumers, and that consumers continue to see gift cards as fantastic gifts. As we celebrate these results at our GCVA Conference, I’m excited about the future opportunities for our industry, particularly in the digital space and through B2B channels.” LESSER & PAVEY APPOINTS NEW SALES REPRESENTATIVES Lesser & Pavey has appointed two new sales representatives Nick Garner covering the Midlands, & James Binckes-Williams looking after customers in the south of England. Two new sales representatives ensures the personal service Lesser & Pavey offers to customers. Both are highly experienced with excellent knowledge in the gift industry. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225, E: sales@leonardo.co.uk, www.leonardo.co.uk MORLEY STORES TO REOPEN JOLLYS STORE IN BATH Morleys Stores has announced plans to reopen the iconic Jollys store in Milsom Street, Bath, and will bring a revitalised shopping experience to this historic retail destination. Against a backdrop of negative retail stories this news is a huge boost for the city of Bath and a much needed and positive demonstration of investment and growth from a UK department store business. In addition, they are announcing a £3m investment into Pearson of Enfield during 2025. James Binckes-Williams Nick Garner 10
INDX Toys 2025 set to inspire the industry The INDX Toys show will return to West Midlands event venue, Cranmore Park on 2-3 September, 2025. Save the date and get ready to explore an inclusive product showcase, perfect for a variety of retail spaces and carefully crafted to drive commercial success. The only dedicated toy industry trade show taking place in Autumn 2025, this two-day show is an unmissable opportunity to secure stock for Christmas and preview new launch products for 2026. Register today and be inspired by an expertly curated brand showcase featuring market leading suppliers, the hottest new toys and games, the latest licensed product ranges, and unique kidult gifts. The show is open to all retailers and Cranmore Park is easy to access and centrally located, offering visitors free onsite parking and complimentary Barista refreshments. Following the INDX Shows re-brand, the 2025 INDX Toys show promises an elevated visitor experience and a bold new look and feel. Attendees are also invited to the INDX Toys Networking Social, taking place after the show on 2 September at the Loft, Cranmore Park’s new eatery and hospitality space. A great chance to get together, relax and catch-up, accompanied by drinks, canapés, and live music. Exhibitor booking is now open, and enquiries should be directed to: Liz.Ayto@cranmorepark.co.uk Be part of the 2025 show, make connections, source new products, and celebrate the industry at INDX Toys. www.indxshows.co.uk/shows/toys On with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad Hyve Group announces Autumn Fair and Glee to co-locate from 2026 Hyve Group, a global leader in events and exhibitions, has announced the exciting co-location of Autumn Fair and Glee at the NEC Birmingham. Autumn Fair will take place 6th – 9th September 2026 and Glee will take place 8th – 10th September 2026. This strategic move by two industry-leading trade exhibitions unlocks multiple benefits for their respective sectors, creating a stronger, future-proofed platform that supports the long-term retail growth and successes of the industries they represent. Driven by industry feedback, extensive research, and considered planning to streamline the buying calendar the co-location will deliver new opportunities, maximise return on investment and enhance the experience for both exhibitors and visitors. Sitting alongside Autumn Fair, the UK’s leading home, gift, and fashion exhibition with a four-day content programme, Glee, the premier event for the garden retail sector, will continue as a dedicated three-day showcase for the garden, leisure, and pet industries. Each show will continue to bring their distinct identity, voice, and ethos. Delivering tangible value across the board, aligning both events unlocks extensive commercial opportunities. Exhibitors gain access to a broader network of high-quality buyers spanning home, gift, and garden sectors. Meanwhile, the thousands of retail buyers attending Autumn Fair and Glee will benefit from expanded cross-sector buying opportunities, accessing a wider range of suppliers, trends, and innovations. Enhancing return on investment for all participants, the colocation delivers cost and time efficiencies, providing strong insight into broader consumer trends that are driving growth opportunities for both audiences. Ultimately, co-location will foster new business partnerships, streamline the sourcing experience, strengthen innovation, and drive increased sales for all involved, resulting in an exceptionally powerful and uniquely comprehensive trade. Jackson Szabo, Retail Portfolio Director, Hyve Group, comments, “We’re excited to announce the alignment of Glee with Autumn Fair from September 2026. The Hyve Group’s heritage across its retail portfolio, Spring Fair, Autumn Fair and Glee, has been delivering commercial opportunities to brands and buyers for over 75 years. Looking to the future, the colocation aligns with our mission to support and spearhead growth within the UK retail and garden sectors. We are excited about this next step for Autumn Fair and Glee and look forward to welcoming our communities to an even more dynamic and commercially rewarding event in 2026.” Autumn Fair and Glee continue to connect industries by driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and inspiring growth. To learn more or to register interest in exhibiting at Autumn Fair 2025 (7th – 10th September, NEC Birmingham), visit www.autumnfair.com and Glee 2025 (16th – 18th September, NEC Birmingham) visit www.gleebirmingham.com 11 NEWS & EVENTS
The Source trade show and Expowest Cornwall celebrate successful 2025 show and announces 2026 dates Following this year’s successful events, The Source trade show and Expowest Cornwall – two of the UK’s leading events for the food, drink, and hospitality sector – have announced the 2026 dates. And for a sector that’s hungry for high-quality events, there’s more good news: a new show will launch in 2026. The Source trade show 2025: The best of retail & hospitality on show Held at Westpoint Exeter, The Source trade show once again proved to be an unmissable event for industry professionals. The show featured more than 200 diverse exhibitors, from local producers to renowned brands, offering visitors an unrivalled range of products and services, invaluable networking opportunities, and a unique insight into the latest trends and innovations. Partnership with Taste of the West highlighted the region’s finest offerings, and for the first time, the Guild of Fine Food brought a group of Great Taste Award winners, for the region’s buyers to sample and order. Expowest Cornwall 2025: A focus for Cornish business Expowest Cornwall once again showed why it’s the heart of Cornwall’s food, hospitality, and catering community. The event showcased a comprehensive range of products and services, from fresh produce and bakery items to cutting-edge catering equipment and business services, alongside more than 50 leading drinks brands brought together by distributor LWC. Many first-time visitors to Expowest Cornwall are surprised by just how much is on offer. With everything from essential supplies to new innovations all under one roof, Expowest Cornwall made it easy to find everything needed for the year ahead – without the need to look elsewhere. Mike Anderson, Managing Director of Hale Events, organisers of both events, said, “These two shows bring together the best of the South West food and drink industry, offering fresh ideas, exceptional networking, and access to the best suppliers. They provide the perfect place to prepare for a successful year. We’re delighted to be launching our new trade show to Somerset in 2026, bringing this proven recipe to a region that that hasn’t previously had an event like these.” Looking ahead: 2026 dates announced Planning ahead is crucial for businesses in this sector, with the 2026 shows dates now here: • The Source trade show: Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th February, at Westpoint, Devon – thesourcetradeshow.co.uk. • Expowest Cornwall: Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th March at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre, Cornwall – expowestcornwall.co.uk. • NEW – The Source Roadshow: Wednesday 25th February, at the Bath & West Showground, Somerset - sourceroadshow.co.uk. Attending these shows enables buyers to connect directly with key suppliers, discover new products and the latest industry innovations, and understand the trends shaping the regional market. If your business is in food retail, catering or hospitality, these friendly, professional shows are well worth a visit. In just a few hours you’ll find the products and services that will help give you a competitive edge in the South West. For more information, please visit the shows’ websites, or contact Hale Events on +44 (0)1934 733 433. Christmas & Gift 2025 finishes on a high The year 2025 certainly began on a high note for the UK’s only festive trade show – Harrogate Christmas & Gift – as exhibitors and visitors turned up in large numbers to not only see the latest products the industry had to offer; but to celebrate a few important milestones too. Whilst the fair celebrated its 75th anniversary this year, one exhibitor, Playwrite, boasted having attended every single show since it began! Warren Cornelius, one of the directors of Harrogate Christmas & Gift, first attended the event himself as an exhibitor in 1967. However, his predecessor Syd Vening (who joined the company with his brother-in-law William (Con) Cornelius and took over the reins on Con’s death in 1944), was one of the show’s founders when it began its journey in Harrogate as International Toy Fair. Fast forward seven decades and the show never fails to impress. The halls of the Harrogate Convention Centre were absolutely packed with an array of fabulous products, not only for Christmas but for celebrations throughout the year. New colours and trends are presented each season and for Christmas 2026 it looks as though we will be seeing lots of rustic colours with autumnal hues; and pretty bold colour mixes such as purple with pink and blue with brown. Quality wrapping and packaging was also trending with a number exhibitors displaying gift wrap, gift boxes, labels, cards and adornments to make gift giving that extra bit special. The traditional Christmas cracker appears to be returning in popularity – and family pooches will be topping Santa’s wish list next year with a selection of dog toys and baubles to choose from. Kerry Brassil of Listowell Garden Centre in Ireland, told us: “It’s been a great show and we placed lots of orders. I loved seeing more unusual colour mixes this year. It’s so nice to see so many bold and retro colour schemes.” Exhibitors were happy with the quality of visitors and buyers too with Tara Hardman of RSW commenting: “RSW had a great show. Our sales figures were up by a whopping 80 percent on 2024. Many of our existing customers visited us and we also gained a lot of new customers. Once again, the show was great for networking.” Alan Pimm of SIL Interiors reiterated this adding: “Harrogate Christmas & Gift was very successful for SIL with both orders and quotes substantially up on last year’s show. Visitor numbers to our stand also increased and we look forward to re-booking for 2026.” This was the second year that Jackson’s Comprehensive Retail Supplies exhibited in Harrogate and Greg Jackson of the company told us that it was their most successful trade show to date. “We noticed a significant increase in footfall to our stand, which was incredibly encouraing. Not only did we engage with more visitors but secured numerous orders during the event. This has had a positive impact on our business and we are thrilled with the results.” Next year, Harrogate Christmas & Gift will take place at the Harrogate Convention Centre from Sunday 11th to Wednesday 14th January 2026. 12
Easyfairs UK announces launch of Easyfairs Packaging Council Easyfairs UK has announced the formation of the Easyfairs Packaging Council (EPC), a strategic advisory board that will play a key role in shaping the future of two of the packaging industry’s most significant events: London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. The newly established council brings together a prestigious group of industry leaders who will offer expert insights and guidance to ensure these events remain at the forefront of packaging innovation, sustainability, and technology. The Easyfairs Packaging Council will advise on event content, address emerging trends, and provide valuable perspectives on industry challenges. The council comprises an esteemed group of professionals from across the packaging industry. Current members include Cory Connors, Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions; Szymon Klos, Senior Packaging Design Manager - Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever; Boma Krijgsman, Brand & Talent Manager at JDO Global; Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystems at SHARPEND; Martin Settle, Senior Manager of Polymer Science Sustainability & Packaging at Reckitt; Thomas Stone, Packaging Development Manager at Bakkavor; Joanna Kut, Central Purchasing Manager at Liberty; Paul Jenkins, Managing Director at The PackHub; Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights & Innovation at WRAP; Victoria Whyley, Plastics & Packaging Manager at ALDI; Ian Rothney, Principal Packaging Scientist at Haleon; and Adam Ryan, Head of Pentawards. As members of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, these industry experts will help guide the content and features of London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. Their contributions will range from offering strategic advice on stage content, speaking at events, moderating sessions, and serving as jury members for various awards. By leveraging the collective expertise of the council members, Easyfairs will be better equipped to shape these events to address the evolving needs of the packaging sector. The EPC will convene once a quarter, with opportunities for smaller, more focused discussions, and members will serve a two-year term, with the possibility of reappointment. Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights & Innovation at WRAP, said, “WRAP has been working on supporting efforts to reduce the impacts that packaging can have on the environment for around two decades. We work collaboratively across the supply chain and have a thorough understanding of the challenges and solutions, which I am looking forward to bringing to the group.” “With the launch of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, Easyfairs is reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class events that help shape the future of the packaging industry,” said Casey McHugh, Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global. “Collaboration is at the heart of innovation, and the EPC provides a unique opportunity to bring together industry experts from all corners of packaging. Their combined insights will ensure that our events continue to address the evolving needs of the industry, creating spaces for forward-thinking discussions and the exploration of new packaging solutions. “The council will ensure that London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack continue to be leading platforms for innovation, networking, and industry advancement.” With one eye on London Packaging Week 2025, you can now register your interest in this premier event, where luxury packaging meets cutting-edge innovation. October’s exclusive two-day exhibition is the ultimate destination to connect with industry pioneers, discover the latest in bespoke and sustainable packaging, and immerse yourself in a world of luxury brand excellence. Be part of the community shaping the future of packaging - register your interest today and ensure your place at the most prestigious event in the packaging calendar. www.easyfairs.com 13 NEWS & EVENTS
14 Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market JOE DAVIES Joe Davies unveils the Heart Wood Collection, a beautifully crafted range that embraces the charm of rustic, reclaimed-style décor. Designed to complement any interior, each piece features a driftwood-inspired finish, adorned with a whitewashed wooden heart and, in some designs, a delicate string bow, enhancing the handcrafted appeal. This thoughtfully curated collection includes photo frames, tealight holders, coasters, storage drawers, and a wall key hanger, offering both style and functionality. Perfect for gifting or adding a warm, rustic touch to the home, the Heart Wood Collection is a must-have for retailers looking to stock timeless and heartfelt décor pieces. T: +44 (0)161 975 6300, E: sales@joedavies.co.uk, www.joedavies.co.uk HOLY MACKEREL Eloise Hall continues to bring fresh creativity to the world of greetings cards with her latest collection of beautifully delicate designs, now tailored specifically for female family birthdays. Inspired by the beauty and power of nature, each card features Eloise’s signature handcrafted collages, combining hand-cut origami paper with intricate ink drawings to create elegant and distinctive designs. This latest range expands on her already extensive collection, offering dedicated birthday cards for much-loved family members, including Mum, Mother, Daughter, Grandma, Nan, Granny, Aunt, Wife, Sister, Niece, Cousin, Granddaughter, Great Granddaughter, and Great Niece. The thoughtful designs provide a meaningful way to celebrate close relationships, ensuring a personal touch for every recipient. Holy Mackerel, the publishers of Eloise Hall’s cards, remain committed to sustainability without compromising on quality. All cards are printed in the UK on FSC-certified board, and customers can choose between biodegradable cornstarch packaging or “naked” cards for an eco-friendly, packaging-free option. By blending artistic craftsmanship with a strong environmental ethos, Eloise Hall’s new relatives’ birthday card collection offers an elegant and thoughtful way to celebrate family connections, making each birthday that little bit more special. E: sales@holy-mackerel.co.uk, www.holy-mackerel.co.uk ANYA SUSHKO Anya Sushko’s range of stunning refillable leather notebooks come in A4 and A5 size, with the matching refill pads and glasses cases a staple for any stylish executive. Handmade in England by expert leather artisans using the finest Italian leather and softest goat suede, these timeless pieces are not just functional accessories but also beautiful adornments. The full-grain Italian leather is supple, yet also hard wearing, and will only get better with time. Whether you want to preserve your precious memories, keep track of your contacts, create to-do lists, or take business notes – the possibilities are endless with Anya Sushko leather journals. And if you are fed up with bulky glasses cases that don’t fit inside an evening bag or a jacket, look no further! Keep your glasses safe and secure in these sleek and tactile two-tone glasses cases. The luxurious goat suede not only cleans and protects the lens, but also looks and feels fantastic. There is a huge selection of colour combinations to choose from – go for a classic matching option or add some sparkle with a contrasting fusion. Whether it is a treat for yourself or a gift for someone special, why not add a personal touch by embossing personalised initials and choosing the luxury giftwrapping option? The company offers smart and elegant packaging in Anya Sushko black boxes with embossed gold logo and black grosgrain ribbon. www.anyasushko.com
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW BURLEIGH POTTERY Burleigh Pottery introduces Blossom Calico, a fresh reinterpretation of the company’s beloved Calico pattern, first created in 1968. This new Spring/Summer 2025 collection softens the iconic deep blue with delicate floral tones, offering a vibrant update for contemporary tables. Handcrafted in the heart of the Staffordshire Potteries since 1851, the full range includes tableware, teaware, and giftware, with select pieces available in gift boxing. Designed to be layered with other colours especially Blue’s and Pinks. Blossom Calico brings timeless British craftsmanship to every setting. Th Alison Howell Head of Design says ‘Scentscaping looks to become even bigger in 2025, and anchoring that scent within your interior with visual prompts will maximise the impact on the senses; try pairing a floral spring scent of opening blooms with Blossom Calico tableware to replicate this effect.’ www.burleigh.co.uk MUSEUMS & GALLERIES With award-nominated ranges of kitchen textiles launched in 2024, and following successful launches of organic cotton napkins, paper napkin packs, and insulated bottles and mugs, Museums & Galleries has introduced new Place Mat Sets and Coaster Sets for 2025. Both place mats and coasters are cork backed, laminated and heat resistant to 100º, and cleanable with a damp cloth. The collection of place mats comprises 6 sets of 4 place mats (single design per pack, 290 x 218 x 24 mm, SRP £17.99). The choice includes designs from M&G new licenses Angela Harding and Mary Katrantzou, joining long-time favourites from the V&A and Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press. There are 12 sets of coasters, each containing 4 coasters of the same design and with a recommended £6.99 price point (coasters 103 x 103 x 24 mm). The V&A, Mary Katrantzou, Angela Harding and Wild Press feature here as well, but also included are quirky and colourful designs from the British Museum, Catherine Rowe, and Brambly Hedge. www.museumsgalleries.co.uk LESSER & PAVEY Lesser & Pavey bring to the marketplace ‘Elements’ reactive glaze range of tableware, which includes mugs, cup and saucer, jug, tea pot, canister for storage of beverages, sugar and cream jug and traditional butter dish that are rapidly returning to the tabletop. Each piece is hand glazed and features wonderful, scalloped tones of grey edging. The gift packaging reflects the quality of the range and colouring. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225, E: sales@leonardo.co.uk, www.leonardo.co.uk BRAINSTORM Brainstorm will launch Freak Marbles, a spin on the everpopular traditional game for Spring/Summer 2025. With an initial collection of 24, Freak Marbles have characterised 360º decoration, trading points, epic gameplay and skins that convert them into figurines for imaginative play or display – they’re the ultimate marble playing experience. As well as the core range, rare freaks will also be available, including sought after glow-in-the-dark, glitter jelly, silver and colour-changing Freak Marbles and the super rare Golden Golem marble. Collectors will be encouraged to swap, mix and hear the pop! Halftoys spark curiosity in preschoolers thanks to a minimalist design that belies their play value. The open-ended play range provides a multi-sensory experience and features dinosaurs, forest, savannah and ocean creatures. Each Halftoy has a tactile, soft-hued skin, which includes safe magnets seamlessly embedded into each half so they can be opened and closed easily to reveal their skeleton within. As well as being highly collectable, kids will love to play, fidget and role-play with their Halftoys and they can even display them too. The range includes World Playsets, Diorama Sets, Picture books and Single Halftoys. www.brainstormltd.co.uk
16 INIS Inis’ new Seascapes Scented Sachets feature the sparkling scent of Inis and images of beautiful coastlines in countries around the world where Inis is sold. Place the sachets in a drawer, closet, suitcase, or car to enjoy uplifting fragrance, and to celebrate and dream of beaches near and far – all to make you feel close to the sea, no matter where you are. Pre-pack assortment includes a free display. Individual sachets available separately. www.inis.com TILNAR ART Tilnar Art is thrilled to lead the way once more with the introduction of the AluminArt Collection, new Wall and Garden Art that will bring a fresh wave of creativity to outdoor and indoor spaces, blending style, functionality, and personal expression. These artistic pieces are hand crafted intricate metalwork and vibrant murals for eco-friendly conscious gardens and homes. Tilnar Art has also added an exciting new vibrant Brushed Pink Collection to the renowned Azeti range of recycled gifts. In 2025, Tilnar Art is also delighted to unveil captivating new additions, including Pink and Black Poppies alongside the colourful dragonflies to the AluminArk Garden Collection. The new products express Tilnar Art’s commitment to creativity and sustainability, ensuring that there’s something extraordinary for every taste. Each of these items is individually hand crafted to the very highest quality with a hand finished colour enamel. T: +44 (0)1277 297 259, E: sales@tilnarart.co.uk, www.tilnarart.co.uk PUCKATOR Puckator, a brand synonymous with creativity and fun, has recently unveiled an exciting range of stationery designs that are sure to excite all ages. The new collection features an array of products that combine practicality with personality. Among the standouts are the popular Everlasting Pencils, which offer a twist to traditional writing tools, never needing to be sharpened and lasting far longer than typical pencils. Alongside these, Puckator has introduced Erasable Pens, a brilliant addition for those who want to write with confidence but also need the freedom to correct mistakes. Adding to the charm of this collection are fun and quirky designs, such as animal-shaped sharpeners and highlighters that bring fun to any desk or pencil case. These playful designs are not just for kids – they also appeal to adults looking to add a touch of whimsy to their workspace. What’s more, many of the products feature exclusive characters, all hand designed by Puckator’s UK creative team, giving the stationery a sense of artistry and individuality that stands out in a crowded market Puckator’s diverse range of stationery caters to different ages and personalities, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking sleek sophistication, playful patterns, or quirky designs, this collection is designed to bring out the best in every user. It’s clear that Puckator is redefining stationery, blending functionality with creativity and ensuring that every piece feels as unique as its owner. T. 0800 011 6969, E. customerservices@puckator.co.uk, www.puckator.co.uk PORTLAND LIVING Prepare for the season ahead with this charming coastal collection brought to you by Portland Living. You don’t have to live beside the sea to embrace the beauty of coastal interiors. This muchloved theme brings a sense of relaxation, freshness, and timeless charm to any space. Whether you’re inspired by sandy beaches with soft, sunkissed hues or prefer a traditional nautical look with classic navy and white stripes, Portland Living offers a stunning range of seaside treasures to complement your collection. Inspired by the land and the sea, the extensive range of unique nautical gifts, souvenirs, and interiors celebrates everything the company loves about the coast. From rustic wooden accents and woven textures to hand-painted details and weathered finishes, each piece is designed to bring a touch of the shoreline into everyday life. Discover a rich and inviting palette of whites, blues, and natural hues, effortlessly combined with organic materials like driftwood, linen, and rattan. Whether you’re curating a beachside retreat, a contemporary coastal home, or a quaint seaside gift shop, the Portland Living collection offers the perfect blend of style and authenticity. Stock up on your next nautical-themed range of gifts, interiors, and souvenirs today at www.portlandliving.co.uk ANCIENT WISDOM Add a touch of mystery and fun to your shelves with Ancient Wisdon’s Zodiac Fizzers. Each bath bomb hides a waterproof horoscope inside, ready to reveal a unique fortune as the fizzer dissolves. Perfect for gifting, self-care, or a playful bath-time ritual, these vibrant fizzers are designed to attract customers looking for something a little different. With hundreds of short, horoscopes in every batch, Zodiac Fizzers are ideal for boutiques, gift shops, and wellness retailers. Sold in a gift box (Pack of 2). www.ancientwisdom.biz
17 BOOK REVIEWS Bookstand The latest releases in gift books SLOW TRAINS AROUND BRITAIN Author: Tom Chesshyre RRP: £20 Format: Hardcover ISBN: 9781837995271 Join travel writer and train enthusiast Tom Chesshyre as he celebrates 200 years of passenger railways in a zigzagging tour around the UK – the home of the railways – from the Isle of Wight to Snowdonia, Inverness and Penzance. In a small market town in the northeast of England in 1825, something momentous happened: ticket-bearing human beings began moving along wrought-iron tracks on a contraption with wheels powered by engines. The contraption was called a “train”. What happened in Darlington, along a 26-mile line to Stockton, would kickstart the railway revolution. Today, 1.3 million miles of tracks crisscross the planet. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of this groundbreaking event, Tom Chesshyre embarks on a journey around the country that invented trains, taking in many heritage lines maintained by armies of enthusiasts. On a series of rides beginning and ending in Darlington on a train-inspired circle, Tom enjoys the scenery, seeks out the history, dodges delays (best he can), and lets the rhythm of the clattering rails help him understand what it is about trains – especially wonderful old trains – that we love so much. www.summersdale.com ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE RRP: £7.99 Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781837996193 Find the rainbow in every storm with this cheerful collection of uplifting quotes, designed to boost your happiness and have you radiating joy. Life has its challenges, and even the strongest among us can feel low from time to time. Sometimes, all we need is a little boost to get us back on track. This pocket-sized book is filled with inspiring words of wisdom to remind you that brighter days are always ahead! Discover a treasure trove of empowering quotes from a wide array of inspirational figures – from the ancient wisdom of Confucius to the modern insights of Taylor Swift. Each quote is carefully selected to lift your spirits, add some pep to your step, and keep you moving forwards with confidence. This book is guaranteed to help you: • Appreciate the brighter side of life • Bounce back from hard days with a positive attitude • Accept mistakes as part of life and success Let this little book be your go-to source of motivation and positivity, providing a quick and powerful pick-me-up whenever you need it most. www.summersdale.com THE LITTLE BOOK OF SLEEP MEDITATIONS Author: Annie Fay Meitchik RRP: £9.99 Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781837995073 Fall asleep effortlessly every night with this little book of sleep meditations that will leave you feeling rested and revitalized. Slipping into slumber isn’t as dreamy as it sounds for the staggering 79 per cent of the population who struggle to switch off at bedtime. For many, it is the reel of worries and an overwhelming to-do list that can hamper a good night’s sleep, not to mention the added threat of our devices lighting up throughout the early hours. It’s no wonder so many of us are scraping by each day with low energy levels. Thankfully, this book is here to help you change your sleep habits via the power of mindfulness and meditation. Inside its pages you will find: • Information on why sleep is so important and a breakdown of the sleep cycle • Advice on sleep hygiene and how to make your bedroom a peaceful environment • A beginner’s guide to meditation and the benefits it brings • 5-, 10- and 15-minute meditations that will help you ease your anxious thoughts • Other meditative exercises to help you relax, including mindful body scanning, visualizations, counting and breathing exercises, and movement-based meditation Your journey towards better sleep starts now. www.summersdale.com DOPAMINE HOME Author: Rachel Verney RRP: £25 Format: Hardback Create a joyful, moodboosting home through the transformative power of dopamine decor. Packed full of ideas for every budget, interiors expert Rachel Verney shares her creative design process, colour know-how and interior hacks to make every corner of your home a colourful, dopamineinducing haven. Whether you’re looking for cost-friendly ‘mini upgrades with maximum impact’, or largescale inspiration as part of a renovation, Rachel guides you through the core principles of dopamine décor room by room, showing you to implement them as you transform your space. With easy-to-follow practical projects to get you started, including: • How to paint tiles • Upholster your own headboard • Upcycle a cocktail cabinet • Build your own planter pergola www.quercusbooks.co.uk
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