3 Employment issues According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), jobs in retail are continuing to fall. In March 2025, there were 2.8 million jobs in the sector – that’s 93,000 fewer than at the same time last year, and 364,000 fewer than in 2015. Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, has urged the government to take action to reverse this decline: “The Government has a clear path to securing the future of these flexible and local jobs. It must ensure the Employment Rights Bill tackles unscrupulous employers without hampering employment opportunities offered by responsible businesses. This will help the industry provide routes back into work for those who need it – a winwin-win for employees, employers, and the wider economy.” Independent retail is the backbone of our communities, and we all know that dedicated, passionate staff are at the heart of every successful store. As an industry, we must unite to ensure that the government does its part to help safeguard jobs and support retail businesses like yours to thrive. Of course, thriving retail also depends on great products – and this issue is packed with ideas to help you curate a stand-out, profitable in-store collection. From pet accessories and statement pieces to weekend bags and the latest new launches, we’ve got you covered. We also know how important it is for you to stay ahead of the curve with expert business advice, so in this issue you’ll find insights into AI in retail, sustainable packaging innovations, and the growing trend of intentional luxury. And let’s not forget the power of live events. This issue we shine a spotlight on two key dates for your diary: Moda x Pure and Harrogate Fashion Week – both essential for sourcing, networking, and staying connected to the beating heart of the industry. Enjoy the issue! Editor Louise Prance @AttireAccessories @AttireAccessories @AttireAccMag www.attireaccessories.com EDITOR LOVES Shared Earth has an ethical ethos with fair trade is at the heart of everything the company does. And with bright and bold fashion accessories such as this stunning necklace, what’s not to love? Head to page 10 to read more about the company. www.sharedearth-trade.co.uk 4 INDUSTRY NEWS All the latest from the world of accessories 7 BRAND SPANKING NEW Latest launches and brand-new products 8 ON WITH THE SHOW All the latest from the industry events 10 COMPANY PROFILE SHARED EARTH Shared Earth Founder Jeremy Piercy tells Gift Focus Editor, Louise Prance, about the company’s ethical ethos and how fair trade is at the heart of everything the company does 14 PAMPERED POOCHES Pet-loving shoppers armed with a high spend budget aren’t afraid to splurge on their beloved four-legged friend 17 WANDERLUST Mini breaks are still en vogue post COVID, with the luggage just as important as the accessories 18 HAT’S OFF From winter warmers to wedding wear, choose from this eclectic selection of hats 21 STATEMENT PIECES Show-stopping accessories that look good in-store, and on your customers 23 MODA X PURE Moda x Pure makes its return to Autumn Fair as a standout fashion destination, showcase four sectors: Womenswear, Clothing & Footwear, Fashion Accessories, and Jewellery & Watch 27 INTENTIONAL LUXURY New research shows how 80 percent of Gen Z consumers ditch fast fashion jewellery for timeless pieces – ushering in a new age of intentional luxury 28 HARROGATE FASHION WEEK Harrogate Fashion Week offers a onestop-shop for all your buying needs, with womenswear, footwear and accessories all well represented at the event 30 EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY How brands are responding to eco-conscious consumer demands 34 BLOG Attire Accessories Editor, Louise Prance, asks, can the gift industry be both joyful and sustainable? CONTENTS On the cover Katherine Elizabeth Hats www.katherineelizabethhats.com
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