WWW.GIFTFOCUS.COM WWW.ATTIREACCESSORIES.COM LOVE LETTERS Greeting cards HcomeerseSanta Christmas products part two Family FUN Toys & games to stock
18-20 JANUARY, EXETER givingliving.co.uk TRADE SHOW 2026 Join us and discover your next best-seller! Connect with top suppliers, get hands-on with the newest gift ideas, explore customisation options, compare products, and lock in the best deals. Why visit? PERFECTLY TIMED Order here and be first in the queue for new. SHOW EXCLUSIVE Exhibitor o ers - make your trip extra worthwhile. MEET MORE ‘Designed and made in Britain’ exhibitors. YOUR PATH TO PROFIT The best coastal and tourism gifts. AND LOTS OF FREE PARKING! To secure your FREE visitor trade entry badge just go to: givingliving.co.uk or, call us on: 01934 733456. Stand enquiries: 01934 733433.
3 EDITOR’S LETTER 29 On the cover Lesser & Pavey Established in 1971 by Chairman and Co-Founder Ronnie Pavey, Lesser & Pavey has become a leading UK trade supplier of giftware and homewares. www.leonardo.co.uk And the winner is… This year’s Autumn Fair was yet another example of just how much incredible talent the UK’s independent business community has to offer. Every aisle felt like a celebration of creativity – a rich showcase of beautifully designed, expertly made, and lovingly presented products from makers and brands. If you’re anything like me, you probably found yourself lingering longer than planned, drawn in by stand after stand of inspiring ideas. The 10 dedicated sections made navigating the event effortless, giving structure to the creative chaos, while Taste at Autumn Fair was a welcome (and delicious) new addition. This fresh product pavilion brought together top-tier buyers and exciting brands, reflecting the booming demand for food gifting and indulgent treats. Of course, Autumn Fair is just the beginning. In this issue, we’ve pulled together a sparkling selection of what’s new and noteworthy across Christmas, Women’s Jewellery & Accessories, Greetings Cards, and Toys & Games. Expect gift inspiration, seasonal showstoppers, and the latest industry news to keep you ahead of the curve. As we turn the page toward our November/December edition, we’ll be looking ahead to the new year with a focus on thoughtful giving. Expect inspiring features on Valentine’s Day, a spotlight on Fairtrade and handmade treasures, and clever gifts under £10 that prove its not about the price tag! Here’s to finding your next bestseller! 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 32 Louise Prance, Editor 24
Beautiful natural Paua shell By Talbot Fashions Est. 1980 info@talbotfashions.com 01273 776415 www.talbotfashions.com Minimum order just £25 (Ex VAT & P&P) See us at: Autumn Fair Birmingham NEC 7th-10th September Hall 7 Stand A49
HANDMADE KEYRINGS 7cm 14cm Two sides of Nature keyrings. Two sides of Woody pals. Dimensions H195cm x W38cm x D38cm For more information please call 0161 872 0333 or email Ian at isamuels@global-journey.com or scan here: Exhibiting at 6H20 Who knew keyrings could be this popular? Well, the Global Journey 3D handmade wooden keyrings are breaking all records for keyring sales, just ask some of our customers. “The Handmade Wooden Keyrings have been a real hit with our customers! Great quality, great price and in a broad range of designs. They appeal to so many different ages and are a fantastic pick up gift” David Ellis, Welcome Break Our brand new Woody Pals Series is designed to sit alongside our very popular nature range. Woody Pals, features on a stylish new 4-sided stand. Two sides of the stand showcase our ever-popular Wooden nature keyrings, while the other two sides are dedicated to Woody Pals – 72 unique, characterful keyrings designed to bring a smile to every customer. NEW
6 In this issue REGULARS 8 Industry news All the latest from the world of gifts 12 On with the show Trade fair dates and show news 14 Brand spanking new Latest launches and brand-new products 19 Bookstand The latest releases in gift books FEATURES 24 Yule tide Our second spotlight of Christmas products to ring in the festive spend season 29 Love letters Greeting cards never go out of fashion, stock something for everyone with this array of product 32 Game on Cater to old and young alike with this selection of toys and games 37 The bling ring Gorgeous gifting opportunities with women’s jewellery and accessories 29 September/October 2025 FOCUS ON 42 Company Profile Dip & Glow Incense brand Dip & Glow is all about the scents – from traditional incense to the more alternative smells of Fizzy Pop and Sizzlin Bacon, there really is something for everyone. Jo Everall, Proprietor, tells us more… 45 Company Profile Samantha Salvatorelli, founder and director of Gilded of Oxford (Formerly: Gilded Words) chats to Gift Focus about bringing quality and craftmanship to your home or office desk 49 Retailer Interview Djamel Benziane, Director, shares more about Aberston.com, a curated B2B wholesale marketplace designed to connect small, design led brands with independent retailers 19 14 24
7 CONTENTS SHOWS 53 Brand Licencing Europe Ella Haynes, Brand Licensing Europe event director, tells Gift Focus what’s to come at the October show 53 BUSINESS ADVICE 54 FSB Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) explains what net zero has got to do with your business, and how you can help get there 56 Adapting for growth Retail business models need to adapt to drive growth, according to new report from EY and World Retail Congress 59 Spending power New study reveals Brits spending power is back, despite the cost-of-living crisis 61 ACID Faith Capstick, Social Media & Communications Executive of ACID, looks at what Generative AI means for the giftware world 32 14 37
Industry news INSIDE OUT TOYS APPOINTED AS EXCLUSIVE UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR SMARTIVITY STEM KITS Inside Out Toys, a leading UK distributor of sustainable and educational toys, is excited to announce a new partnership with innovative toy brand Smartivity. From 1st July 2025, Inside Out Toys will become the exclusive UK distributor for a range of Smartivity STEM-based construction and science kits, aimed at children aged 6 years and above. Designed to inspire young minds through hands-on play, Smartivity kits combine STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) with creative construction to provide hours of educational fun. The range includes everything from mechanical models to art-meets-engineering projects, all made from high-quality, sustainable materials. With retail prices starting at just £11.99, Smartivity kits offer accessible and engaging options for independent toy and gift retailers, garden centres, museums, and educational stores looking to expand their offerings in the growing STEM toy sector. Julian Garner, Director of Inside Out Toys, commented: “We are thrilled to bring Smartivity to the UK market. Their awardwinning kits are not only fun and educational but also align with our commitment to sustainability and child development. We believe this range will be a fantastic addition for retailers seeking purposeful and planet-friendly products.” The Smartivity range will be available to order from 1st July 2025 via the Inside Out Toys B2B platform, with marketing support and POS materials available to stockists. For more information or to request a catalogue, please contact: sales@insideouttoys.co.uk, www.insideouttoys.co.uk Catch up on all the latest in our news round up NATIONAL TRUST FOR SCOTLAND LAUNCHES LICENSING PROGRAM TO ‘SHARE THE LOVE OF SCOTLAND’ The National Trust for Scotland, Scotland’s largest independent conservation charity, has launched its first official brand licensing program. The charity that cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s heritage will, through this initiative, aim to extend the reach of the Trust’s iconic brand; allow audiences across the globe to enjoy a slice of Scotland and the Trust wherever they are; and generate additional funding to support its vital conservation work across Scotland. As a brand and charity looking towards its centenary, the 94-year-old Trust stands for Scottish authenticity, heritage, and quality, and is working alongside partners to develop products that reflect Scotland’s unique stories, people, and places. This includes allowing access to a rich archive of thousands of assets – from historic illustrations, architectural details, and textiles to traditional patterns, botanical drawings, and decorative arts – spanning centuries of Scottish culture and craftsmanship. From architects to poets, beautiful film locations to pink castles – the Trust’s diversity of places offer something for everyone. “We are excited to launch our first ever licensing program at National Trust for Scotland,” said Caroline Reid, Director of Commercial Enterprises, National Trust for Scotland. “This is an important moment for the Trust - our licensing program allows us to collaborate with best-in-class partners who share our values, while unlocking the creative and commercial potential of our collections and places. Every licensed product will help protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage for generations to come.” Funds raised through licensing will go directly toward the care and conservation of more than 100 historic properties, over 76,000 hectares of countryside, and thousands of artefacts in the charity’s collection. Working alongside Speak Consulting, the Trust will curate a portfolio of licensees across categories such as homeware, gifting, apparel, stationery and food and drink. The program will be underpinned by a strong focus on sustainability, provenance, and storytelling. “We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Trust for Scotland,” said Graham Speak, Director at Speak Consulting. “This is a great opportunity to create authentic, Scottish ranges alongside the Trust, with its brand, expertise and diverse assets. There’s a wealth of design inspiration and licensing potential – and we’re excited to do new things with a unique Scottish twist!” Expressions of interest are open to prospective partners in the UK and beyond, with initial partners to be announced over the coming months. www.nts.org.uk/licensing 8
CHI CUPS CROWNED GIFT OF THE YEAR 2026 PEOPLE’S CHOICE CHAMPION The people have spoken, and the results are in! Gift of the Year, organised by The Giftware Association, is thrilled to announce that Chi Cups by Chi Cups has been officially crowned the sixth People’s Choice Champion. The brand earned an overwhelming number of votes – nearly 20 percent of the total – and captured the hearts of fans and supporters within their network. The award was announced at the Harrogate Home and Gifts Sundowners drink, held after the first day of trading. From the very beginning, Chi Cups brought energy, creativity, and an undeniable spark to the competition, making its way through to the shortlist stage of the awards and proudly exhibiting at Spring Fair. The company’s ability to rally support and inspire its community was nothing short of phenomenal in the most voted awards to date. “We are incredibly proud of Chi Cups, and the passion they’ve shown throughout each stage of the awards has been great to see,” said Chris Workman, Marketing and PR Manager of the Giftware Association. “Their win is a testament to the power of their community and the power of knowing your audience.” The People’s Choice Champion title is awarded to the participant who garners the most public votes, and anyone who made it through to the shortlist stage of the awards is eligible to be crowned. Chi Cups did just that – drumming up impressive support that carried the company to victory. Gift of the Year is now open for entries now – www.giftoftheyear.co.uk GARDENING FOR KIDS COLLABORATES WITH EMMA LAWRENCE DESIGNS A new collaboration between Gardening for Kids and Emma Lawrence Designs is a natural match – combining a love of the outdoors with beautifully illustrated, educational products. Gardening for Kids is a family business with one goal – to get children growing! Founded by Louise Edgeworth, a teacher, in response to the question “What’s the point of plants Miss?” they are the UK’s only specialist children’s gardening supplier. The company has licensed Emma’s charming sub-brand, Little Nature Explorers®, across a brand-new range of growing kits, garden tools and accessories. With a shared ethos of helping children learn about nature and encouraging outdoor play, the range is designed to inspire curiosity and creativity - while also supporting the KS2 science curriculum. Little Nature Explorers® began life as a series of non-fiction children’s books that Emma wrote and illustrated, featuring fun and cheeky bugs, friendly insects and native wildflowers. The popular characters have since evolved into a range of illustrated products that celebrate the magic of the natural world. Gardening for Kids first stocked the original books in their shop, and later reconnected with Emma at Harrogate Home & Gift, where the idea for a wider collaboration took root. Fittingly, the new range and republished books will launch at this year’s Harrogate show including The Worm, Slugs & Snails and Butterflies, now with fun facts and a crossword to engage young readers and help them learn amazing facts. www.gardeningforkids.co.uk ANNA MCLOUGHLIN FINE JEWELLERY AWARDED HALO AWARD Anna McLoughlin Fine Jewellery has been awarded the prestigious HALO Award for 2025, in recognition of her innovative work to engage customers with the importance of hallmarking and consumer protection in the jewellery sector. The HALO Award, established by the British Hallmarking Council in 2021, and now operating under the Assay Assured banner, a joint venture between the four assay offices of the UK (Birmingham, Edinburgh, London and Sheffield) is awarded annually. HALO recognises the UK-based jewellery business that uses their online platform in the most creative ways to leverage the added value that hallmarking provides and to educate their audience on the meaning and importance of the hallmark. ‘I’m absolutely thrilled to have won the HALO award for a second time,’ said Anna McLoughlin, founder of Anna McLoughlin Fine Jewellery. “I feel that hallmarking and raising awareness of it amongst both my clients and fellow micro-businesses, is incredibly important. It adds prestige to a piece and is a legal guarantee that the quality of the metal is actually what I say it is!” By law, all items described as being made from precious metals above certain weight limits must be hallmarked by one of the four UK Assay Offices. The hallmark confirms the metal’s purity, identifies the individual or business putting the item on the market and ultimately protects both consumers and retailers from counterfeiting and false descriptions. Noel Hunter, Chair of the British Hallmarking Council said: “I congratulate Anna McLoughlin Fine Jewellery on winning this year’s HALO Award and commend the extensive efforts undertaken to educate and protect the consumer by embedding hallmarking awareness into all aspects of the business.” www.annafinejewellery.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS 9
UNIVERSITY GAMES RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE WORLDWIDE DISTRIBUTION RIGHTS TO HANSEN RANGE In a Global Distribution Agreement, Hansen Games, Gift and Toy Company have partnered with University Games, granting them exclusive worldwide rights to distribute the complete Hansen product range. The Hansen range includes Hoberman Spheres, Fame Master models, handheld electronic games, Hansen-branded classic games, and a variety of distributed games and dolls. Select Hansen lines will be included in the 2026 University Games UK Catalogue, and available early 2026 in the UK. Bob Moog, President of University Games and John Hansen III, CEO of the John N. Hansen Company, jointly announced the global distribution agreement. Bob Moog explained the personal importance of this new agreement, “In 1985, when we started University Games, our first customer was John Hansen who started the John N. Hansen Co in 1947 as a gift distributor. John was my mentor as well as our first customer. At a time when games were still sold to department stores and the NY Stationary Show was Hansen’s biggest show, the two companies worked together to launch Murder Mystery Party games, the Aerobie and the 20 Questions game. John ordered the first 5,000 Murder Mystery Party games and he paid in 10 days so that we had money to pay the printer for the games. This generous gesture by John Hansen gave University Games its start. I worked with John until he died, then John Jr. and now John’s grandson, John Hansen III.” www.university-games.co.uk INDEPENDENT STATIONERY BRAND WINS AT 2025 STATIONERY AWARDS Independent stationery brand Under the Rowan Trees is proud to announce its win at the 2025 Stationery Awards, taking home the Best Online Retailer award. The results were revealed at the awards ceremony following the first day of the London Stationery Show. Recognising innovation, excellence and impact across the stationery industry, the Stationery Awards are judged by an independent panel of experts and receive entries from leading retailers and manufacturers across the UK and beyond. Founded by Danielle Stanley, Under the Rowan Trees began as a hobby in 2015 and has since blossomed into a thriving online shop and community for stationery lovers, known for its curated selection of journaling supplies, creative subscription boxes and its signature personal touch. “As a teeny tiny business, I was shocked to be a finalist for the Best Online Retailer category, and I still can’t believe we won!” said Danielle. “Under the Rowan Trees has grown and changed over the last 10 years, as have I as a business owner, and I’m so proud that I’m able to show that us little guys can be just as amazing (if not more so) than the big brands with huge teams and deep pockets” Danielle also expressed heartfelt thanks to the Under the Rowan Trees community, “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped us to get here, including my team, the brands we work with, the business support community and most importantly, to our customers who support and champion us every day.” Under the Rowan Trees continues to lead the way in independent stationery retail, offering sustainable, joy-filled tools for journaling, planning, creativity and self-expression, all from their charming HQ in rural Northumberland. www.undertherowantrees.co.uk BULLDOG LICENSING ANNOUNCES MULTIPLE DEALS FOR BULLSEYE As the iconic darts game show Bullseye prepares to make its triumphant return to ITV, Bullseye licensing agent Bulldog Licensing has announced an equally impressive boost for the Bullseye brand as it welcomes not fewer than four new licensees – with many more on the way. The newest partners for the top-scoring brand are Rose Marketing for chocolate gifting and confectionery gifting, Blues Group for dress-up and dress-up accessories, Themed. co.uk for wall stickers, murals, prints and LED wall art, and Penguin Michael Joseph for an Official Bullseye Quiz Book. Rose Marketing, a company that brings novelty and fun to confectionery, is planning a licensing and brand partnership that will bring Bullseye to a fabulous selection of themed sweets for confectionery fans of all ages. The first products – two gift boxes containing strawberry-flavoured gummy ‘Bullseyes’ and beer-flavoured gummy ‘Pints’ – will arrive in the UK later this year to coincide with the Christmas selling period. The packaging will feature the Bullseye logo and much-loved mascot Bully. Blues Dress-up is the newest division of bespoke apparel collection designer Blues Group. It delivers innovative, marketleading costume collections, with a strong commitment to sustainability, for women, men and children. The new Bullseye dress-up and dress-up accessories range for the adult market features both Bully and dartboard-themed costumes (with Velcro balls for the board!), an iconic Bully darts shirt, complete with character gloves and head, and even a rideon costume that makes it look as if Bully is giving the wearer a piggyback. Launching online in September, the range is ideal for parties, events or even a fun night out watching the darts! www.bulldog-licensing.com 10
FRECKLEFACE HOME FRAGRANCE NAMED ON THE FEBE GROWTH 100 The UK’s fastest-growing founder-led businesses have been revealed in the highly prestigious FEBE Growth 100. Now in its fourth year, the ranking celebrates the people building the fastest-growing British businesses where founders remain at the helm. But it isn’t just a list. It’s a community. A celebration. A snapshot of the energy, ambition, and resilience that define the UK entrepreneurial scene. Founders on this list are making an impact, and FEBE is proud to champion them. Freckleface, based in Lincolnshire, has earned a spot on the prestigious list with a 40 percent CAGR and, notably, with cofounder Noah being its youngest member. Freckleface Home Fragrance was founded by Tara CarlileSwift in 2017, and her then 14-year-old son, Noah Carlile-Swift. What started as a simple kitchen-table hobby, making wax melts and candles to teach Noah about entrepreneurship, has blossomed into a beloved British brand, known for its natureinspired, artisan home fragrance and wellbeing products. Tara and Noah have grown Freckleface organically to include four high-street stores in York, Lincoln and Stamford and have a presence in over 900 garden centres and gift shops nationwide. With a remarkable year-on-year growth, the brand continues to expand, including successful collaborations with the RHS, Laura Ashley and most recently Historic Royal Palaces. Commenting on the announcement, founder Tara said: “We are so thrilled to be on the list, we are just a Mum and Son with a vision and a passion to bring artisan products to our high streets and with our amazing team, we are seeing this dream become a reality. We are proud to still hold true to the same values we established on the kitchen table from day one, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for Freckleface. Noah is still only 21 and being part of the FEBE community with like-minded entrepreneurs is amazing for him. Charlotte Quince, founder of FEBE, said,“The Growth 100 isn’t just a leaderboard – it’s a tribute to the founders pushing boundaries, taking risks, and building brilliant businesses against all odds.” For the full list and methodology, visit: www.febe.com POPCORN KITCHEN JOINS FORCES WITH THE FARM RETAIL ASSOCIATION B-Corp, Popcorn Kitchen has launched its eagerly anticipated alliance with the Farm Retail Association, a leading light within the UK’s bustling farm shop movement and a prominent voice within today’s vibrant indie shopping sector. In July 2025, The Farm Retail Association launched its ambitious #morethanfood movement geared specifically at raising awareness for real food, better ingredients, supporting the UK’s blossoming farm shop community and the local food economy, whilst taking a stand against ultraprocessed foods and mundane flavours. Today, ever greater numbers of food enthusiasts choose to pro-actively shop locally, supporting best-in-class suppliers, whilst enjoying a truly immersive, hands-on shopping experience that’s so very different from a typical supermarket outing. In and amongst the hero meats, fruit and veg, bakery and preserves there’s also a growing demand within farm shops for a number of small batch snacks and goodies that faithfully mirror farm shop’s non-negotiable ‘slow food’ movement values of good, clean and fair! According to Popcorn Kitchen spokesperson, Louise Monk, “Our best-in-class, hand-popped values are very much aligned with everything that the Farm Retail Association is seeking to champion; namely provide the perfect foodie setting for truly differentiated artisanal offerings to stand out and prosper. Our ongoing commitment to involving flavour marriages, best-inclass ingredients and clear sustainable values means that we are perfectly suited to foster ever closer ties with aspirational farm shops up and down the country.’” www.popcornkitchen.co.uk TIGER FEET APPOINTS WOLFENDEN TO ACCELERATE DIGITAL EXPANSION ACROSS UK AND IRELAND Leading UK partyware and greeting card wholesaler, Tiger Feet, has appointed Leeds-based digital agency Wolfenden to drive a bold new digital marketing strategy, marking the next stage of growth for one of the industry’s most established players. Founded in 1984 as Budget Greeting Cards Ltd, Tiger Feet has grown to become one of the UK and Ireland’s most prominent wholesalers in greeting cards, balloons, and partyware, operating a vast network of eight wholesale branches and an expansive e-commerce platform. The brand has consistently evolved to stay ahead of retail trends, most recently acquiring Paul White Ltd and Tiger Feet Party Ltd further reinforcing its dominant position in the wholesale market. With over 30 years of heritage and a commitment to value, Tiger Feet is known for its extensive and ever-growing product catalogue, exceptional service, and strategic vision to deliver quality, variety, and affordability to a national customer base. Wolfenden’s partnership with Tiger Feet began with a successful site migration and brand merger project. Off the back of this, the agency has been appointed to lead the charge on an all-encompassing digital strategy designed to build brand visibility, accelerate sales, and increase market share. Wolfenden will draw on its multi-channel expertise – spanning SEO, paid media, digital PR, UX and data & analytics – to connect Tiger Feet’s core audiences with its unrivalled product range and service offering. www.tigerfeet.com INDUSTRY NEWS 11
On with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad Autumn Fair and Savethehighstreet.org announce winners of Retail Makeover Mission competition Autumn Fair, the UK’s leading marketplace for home, gift and fashion, in partnership with Savethehighstreet.org, has announced the winners of the highly anticipated Retail Makeover Mission, a nationwide competition aimed at revitalising the independent retail sector. After receiving hundreds of applications from across the UK, two exceptional businesses have been selected to receive a complete retail transformation, tailored to unlock their growth potential and future-proof their operations ahead of the crucial autumn/winter season – and for years to come. The 2025 Retail Makeover Mission Winners Are: OSO Fashion Boutique in Salisbury and Taba Naba in Felixstowe. Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair says, “We are so proud to announce the winners of our inaugural Retail Makeover Mission. Both winners demonstrated a strong growth mindset, community focus, and readiness for change – key criteria in a competition designed to champion resilience and innovation in independent retail. This initiative isn’t just about transforming two stores, it’s about showcasing what’s possible when independent retailers are supported with the tools, expertise, and visibility they need to thrive. These amazing stores stood out for their passion, community spirit, and determination to grow. We can’t wait to transform their businesses and share every step of the journey with you!” The Retail Makeover Mission was launched to champion the resilience, innovation, and community spirit at the heart of British independent retail. The initiative attracted 225 entries from across the UK, each showcasing the vital role independents play in local economies and high streets. OSO Fashion Boutique, an award-winning fashion and jewellery destination in Salisbury, impressed judges with its commitment to customer service, curated collections, and a clear vision for growth. Owner Katie Gibbs says, “We’re incredibly excited for this opportunity to take OSO to the next level, not just for our team, but for our loyal customers and the Salisbury community. Becoming the owner of OSO has been such a proud moment, but I know there’s so much more we can do to help the business reach its full potential. We have an amazing customer base and a strong reputation, but we’re still working with very traditional systems, and it’s time to bring OSO into the modern retail world in a way that feels right for us. The Retail Makeover Mission is the perfect opportunity to learn from experts, introduce smarter tools, and rethink how we operate without losing the charm our customers love. I’m excited to improve everything from our shop layout to the way we use technology, and to build a future for OSO that’s more connected, more efficient, and more inspiring, for our team, our customers and local community.” Taba Naba, a gift shop in Felixstowe, was chosen for its passion for creating memorable customer experiences and its deep-rooted community connections. Michaela Sawyer, Owner of Taba Naba says, “This is such an exciting moment for Taba Naba. Like many independents, I’ve poured my heart into the shop, but bringing everything together into one clear plan has always been the biggest challenge. The Retail Makeover Mission feels like the perfect opportunity to step up, to gain expert advice, build something more focused and sustainable, and take our customer experience to the next level. I’m ready to transform not just how the shop looks, but how it works behind the scenes. This is a huge turning point for us, and I couldn’t be more thrilled!” The Makeover Magic begins Transformation work will commence this July, perfectly timed to help both businesses prepare for the all-important autumn/ winter retail period. The process and results will be documented and shared, providing valuable insights and inspiration for the wider independent retail sector. A blueprint for sector-wide success The Retail Makeover Mission aims to create a blueprint for sustainable growth and innovation across the independent retail landscape. From upgrading legacy systems and improving inventory management to enhancing digital integration and customer experience, the lessons learned will be shared with the entire Savethehighstreet.org and Autumn Fair communities. Alex Schlagman, Founding Partner of Savethehighstreet. org, commented: “Independent retailers are the backbone of our high streets. By investing in their success, we’re not just supporting individual businesses, we’re strengthening communities and local economies, and inspiring a new era of retail innovation. It has a positive ripple effect. Both OSO Fashion Boutique and Taba Naba employ local people, support local suppliers, and actively participate in community initiatives. Their success will drive local economic activity, foster partnerships, and serve as a beacon for what’s possible when independents are empowered to reach their full potential.” Follow the journey The Retail Makeover Mission transformations will be shared across Autumn Fair and Savethehighstreet.org’s digital channels, offering practical insights and inspiration for retailers nationwide. Join to celebrate the power of independent retail and help shape the future of the UK high street, one store at a time. Katie at OSO Boutique Michaela Sawyer Taba Naba 12
Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn provides launchpad for new suppliers Crammed with new suppliers wanting to take a stand, Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn is a Show that caters well for companies eager to explore opportunities in the Scottish market. The Launch Gallery has already been extended with some exciting first timers. Taking place at the SEC, Glasgow from 21-22 Sept 2025, this boutique show offers exhibitors more time and space to meet and network with buyers. Solid relationships are forged here ahead of the busy Spring buying period in January. For those retailers searching a dynamic mix of creativity and innovation head to the Launch Gallery with its rich mix of suppliers. These include Art by Annie, Curiously Charmed, Heatons, Laconic, Little White Candle, Lunabuloona, Middleshade Perfumes, Sara Willa Landscapes and The Modern Crafter. Beyond the Launch Gallery, the Show will feature a wide range of businesses ready to make their mark in Scotland. Newcomers such as 3D Studio Gifts, Alba Wholesale, The Cottonist, All The Colour, Blade & Rose, Fantasy Candles, Hamilton & Morris Candlemakers, Heritage Playing Cards, Ink and Snail, Lismore Luminations, Mindful Art, Rogers Ink, Silver Birch Cards, Slime Party UK, Strings and Dreams and Yoojoo, will all be showcasing their latest ranges. Registration has just opened for the Show so be sure to register now to get any key Show news - Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn 2025. Show Director Mark Saunders says: “We’re delighted with the surge in interest from new companies this year. The Autumn Show’s more intimate setting appeals to independent, creative brands who relish getting orders and making contact with Scottish buyers. With a strong summer tourist season and good weather on our side, we anticipate retailers will be keen to stock up ahead of the festive period.” Craig Hunt from The Wee Engraving Company who exhibited for the first time last year added: “Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn was an incredible Show for us and allowed us to showcase our products to many key Scottish buyers for the first time.” Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring will take place from 18-20 January 2026 - another date for the diary. www.scotlandstradefairs.com GLEE 2025: where insight grows and innovation blooms When Glee returns to the NEC Birmingham from Tuesday 16th – Thursday 18th September 2025, it will bring with it a dynamic and future-focused seminar programme, designed to spark insight, drive profitability, and energise the garden retail sector. This year’s content will be delivered across two specialist stages. The Hive will serve as the hub for all things garden retail, from leadership and sustainability to business strategy and future trends. Meanwhile, the Feed Your Business Stage, located in the newly launched Food @ Glee area, will take a deep dive into the commercial opportunities within catering, hospitality, foodservice and food retail as well as design. Profit, purpose and the ‘Garden Centre of the Future’ From high-level strategy to hands-on innovation, Glee 2025 addresses the real challenges and opportunities facing today’s garden retailers. Central to the programme is the need to balance profit and purpose, and lead businesses into a new era defined by smarter operations, sustainable growth, and unforgettable customer experiences. In one of the most unique and interactive sessions of the show, Michael Perry – better known as Mr Plant Geek – returns with his ever-popular ‘Future Plants’ insights. This year, he’ll take things a step further by hosting an exclusive walking tour of the show, giving participants the chance to meet the pioneering growers behind the next generation of plants set to transform UK garden centres. In a flagship keynote, Pleydell Smithyman’s Paul Pleydell will unveil their visionary take on the “Garden Centre of the Future”, combining architectural creativity with realworld data to show how design can power everything from dwell time to footfall and spend. In one of the most anticipated sessions of the show, Alan Roper, Managing Director of Blue Diamond Garden Centres, will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at leadership in action. “An Industry Conversation” will explore his approach to retail transformation, culture, and staying ahead in a competitive and increasingly digital landscape. Alan is inviting the industry to submit their questions ahead of the session in a unique opportunity to engage directly with one of the most influential voices in garden retail. Whether you’re curious about leadership strategies, business transformation, or the future of the sector, Alan wants to hear from you. British Garden Centres will also take centre stage with “Buzzing with Innovation: Next Gen Leaders”, where Amy and Libby Stubbs present how the next generation is not just preserving a legacy but actively rewriting what success looks like in the modern retail era. The HTA will also bring its invaluable market intelligence to The Hive stage, helping retailers decode the latest research, performance metrics and consumer trends in their session “Pollinating Insights”. With a clear focus on data-led decision making, this is a must-attend for anyone looking to build resilience and plan for the long term. Other sessions explore technology, supply chain strategy, and sustainability as competitive levers, showcasing stories of garden centres that are not just surviving but thriving by placing environmental and ethical practices at the heart of their operations. Feeding growth On the Feed Your Business Stage, content is all about delivering ROI through food and catering. From expert-led sessions on menu engineering and kitchen design, to talks on food truck partnerships, the power of farm shops, technology-driven cooking methods, and the evolution of the high-street coffee model, attendees will walk away with actionable ideas to increase dwell time, margin, and customer loyalty. To find out more about Glee’s thriving seminar programme, be sure to visit www.gleebirmingham.com/seminars. 13 NEWS & EVENTS
14 Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market JOE DAVIES Step into a world of gentle charm and timeless elegance with this stunning collection of pastel floral vases and planters from Joe Davies. Delicately hand-painted blooms in soft hues of lavender, coral, sky blue, and sunshine yellow on a soft cream background, make the perfect vessel to showcase any flowers and plants. This pretty range has been put together using some of Joe Davies bestselling shapes such as the milk bottle and jug vase. With their uplifting design and timeless appeal, these vases and planters aren’t just home décor – they’re heartfelt gifts and collectable treasures. If you’re looking for something new and inspiring visit the Joe Davies stand is the perfect place to start. With helpful faces, innovative products and a stress-free “little & often” approach to ordering it’s a stand not to be missed. The Joe Davies team look forward helping you to make the busy trading period as successful as possible and invite you to explore their exciting range. T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk WARMIES Whether you’re switching up your summer accessories, getting ahead for back-toschool, or looking for a dopamine boost for your daily bag, Warmies has just delivered the drop of the season. These scented, soft, and stylish new accessories are more than just cute, they tap directly into the rise of comfort-core sensory gifting, and collectible fashion that’s trending across social feeds, highstreet, and playgrounds across the UK. From teens styling their backpacks to adults personalising their keys and totes, the demand for tactile, feel-good accessories is growing fast, and Warmies® is meeting it with a launch that›s practical, playful, and seriously giftable. Global brand Warmies, proudly based in the UK, has launched a new collection of scented keyrings and bag charms and they’re set to become the most wanted accessories of 2025. Designed to be clipped to bags, school backpacks, keys, and beyond, these plush, weighted companions combine Warmies’ signature softness with a calming scent, bringing a feel-good touch to everyday style. Warmies Keyrings are sized at just 3”, but have all the Warmies style you’d expect, The keyrings cost just £8.99 from Warmies.co.uk: The range includes 11 unique characters, making them highly collectible and irresistibly giftable. Choose from. Brown Bear, Boba, Pink Elephant, Frog, Turtle, Brown Sloth, Cockapoo, Puppy, Bunny, Avocado, and Donut. Warmies Bag Charms are slightly bigger than the keyrings at 5” meaning they are perfect for accessories for bags and backpacks. The Bag Charms cost £9.99 from Warmies.co.uk: Available in 11 designs including: Brown Bear, Boba, Pink Elephant, Frog, Turtle, Brown Sloth, Cockapoo, Puppy, Bunny, Avocado, and Donut. Warmies are consistently in high demand across the globe, these new launches offer fans a fresh way to experience the brand’s signature style, created for life on the go. As trends shift toward sensory well-being and feel-good fashion, Warmies continues to lead the way with products that are as comforting as they are collectible. www.warmies.co.uk/pages/wholesale REBECCA UDALL The Lola cushions are made using exceptional Italian milled linen velvet – an interesting alternative to typical velvets. Meticulously crafted in Europe with a fringed hem, these cushions suit contemporary and more classic settings – easy to style and mix and match with patterns and other fabrics. www.rebeccaudall.com STOCKWELL CERAMICS The much loved Heritage Range of buttons by Stockwell Ceramics has recently been expanded by the addition of a lovely selection of new, exclusively William Morris designs, particularly featuring the hexagon shape, much loved by crafters and patchwork makers. Stockwell Ceramics’ green fern cardigan buttons have been newly added to the range for use by Jade Starmore’s on one of her beautiful knitting patterns. Going all the way to Bluff Cove on the Falkland Islands are a colony of quirky little penguin drop earrings in both a black and blue heritage pattern, with necklaces to match on silver plated chains. www.stockwellceramics.co.uk
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW THE WHEAT BAG COMPANY The Wheat Bag Company’s new neck and shoulder wraps are designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation. Thoughtfully shaped to fit snugly around the neck and shoulders, each wrap is filled with natural English wheat for gentle, soothing warmth. When heated in the microwave, the wrap helps to relieve aches, ease tension, and promote relaxation, making it ideal for use at home, in the office, or after a long day. Handcrafted in the company’s Wiltshire workshop using quality materials, this is a comforting essential you’ll want to reach for again and again. www.thewheatbagcompany.co.uk POPCORN KITCHEN Popcorn Kitchen has upped the ante with regards its Christmas gifting offer, courtesy of a three-strong chocolate bar offer consisting of White Chocolate Raspberry, Dark Chocolate Orange and Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate Popcorn. With Salted Caramel Popcorn Chocolate already firmly established as a cult giant bar, the decision was taken to give further impetus to the natural ‘foodie chemistry’ that exists between snacking icons, popcorn and top-drawer chocolate, by exploring the full spectrum of enticing chocolate meets crunchy popcorn flavour marriages. In further exciting news, the Popcorn Kitchen family welcomes the arrival of Vanessa Andrews as Marketing Director. Vanessa comes armed with a wealth of brand marketing wisdom and experience from an array of enviable blue-chip roles (Mars, Danone, Pladis & Oxford SM) and will be overseeing the next chapter of the brand’s eagerly anticipated evolution that will include a new foray into on-the-go and the on-trade. www.popcornkitchen.co.uk LESSER & PAVEY Lesser & Pavey has developed its enchanting Desire range of fragranced products. 20cm tall glass vase shapes hold a soya candle with three quality wicks that will constituently burn the fragrance captured within. At the end the vase has a new purpose, one for holding new cathedral candle or floral arrangement – so it could be said it offers two gifts in one. Along with a varying range of quality fragrances captured in the candle, the outer glass vase brings colour in white and grey swirls, speckled patterns offering light randomly, coffee brown base colour with charcoal animal print, and creams with whirls of toffee. Add to these Desire candles comes larger statement diffusers in masculine shades of coffee, tobacco and rum as well as modular square glassware of cranberry, green and neutral. Each diffuser is presented in a stunning gift box, showing a peak at the inner glassware vessel, capturing fragrances that reflect perfumeries and classic masculine fragrances including Azure (Aquatic woody note), Suave (Spicy Oriental), Oud Wood (Woody Oriental Blend), Aventi (Fresh fruity), Coco (Floral Oriental Blend), Liberty (Floral and woody scent) and Rouge (Floral Oriental Blend). Lesser & Pavey also has ranges of smaller candles and diffusers, refills and fragrance room sprays. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225 E: sales@leonardo.co.uk www.leonardo.co.uk MAKASI IMPORTS Makasi Imports is the UK’s largest supplier of driftwood style teak root giftware, home accessories, and home and garden furniture. The fair-trade products are all hand-crafted by small family businesses in Indonesia using locally available sustainable or recycled materials such as teak root, coconut shells, bamboo and discarded boats and fabrics. Responding to customer trends, Makasi has been expanding its giftware range over the last couple of years and on a shopping trip to Indonesia earlier this year, managing director Dan Unsworth bought or designed and commissioned a large selection of new giftware products from his family suppliers: “It’s good to meet with the local craftspeople face to face and chat with them about what we’re after over a cup of sweet tea in a relaxed environment,” says Dan “The personal contact allows us to choose materials and sketch out product designs with them so they know exactly what we need.” Makasi’s new offerings include a range of luscious handcarved and hand-painted mushrooms inspired by the natural world, adorable tiny hand-carved creatures on branches and plants, unique soap and lotion dispensers made from bamboo or coconut shells and some fabulous organically shaped bowls – among many others, all available to view on the website. www.makasiimports.co.uk
16 THE CHELSEA CANDLE COMPANY An olfactory tribute to Chelsea’s floral richness and fashionable west end district. Designed to mirror the beauty of The Chelsea Flower Show. Immerse yourself in the complex yet harmonious blend of Rose Geranium and Mimosa. The candle captures the richness and grandeur of this iconic village with a luxurious blend of Rose Geranium, Oud, and Mimosa. Expertly hand-poured in London, setting the standard in artisan candle-making, it is an ethical choice that doesn’t compromise on quality. Up to 40 hours of burn time, ensuring enduring fragrance. www.thechelseacandlecompany.co.uk BOXWILD The perfect gift for a bird lover – Boxwild’s new Thinking of You gift box contains: • Two of seed blends • A bird feeder • One lovely scoops Boxwild blends its seeds in its kitchens in Monmouthshire to give optimum nutrition for your garden birds. The company also make a 50p donation from every box sold to various Wildlife Charities to support the wonderful work they do. Please note that the scoop is not included. https://dev.boxwild.com DRAW UK Draw UK, the handdrawn giftware and greeting card design company, has added to its vibrant range of kitchen textiles with the launch of a collection of fun and handy pot grabs. These join a wide selection of high quality tea towels, oven gloves and stylish aprons to provide retailers with Draw UK’s largest and most colourful kitchen textile collections to date. Featuring characters that followers of the brand will recognise, know and love and rendered in punchy colourways, Draw UK’s pot grabs will collectively add further interest to any in-store display and individually provide a design option to complement any kitchen scheme. At 20cm x 20cm, each pot grab is made from 100 percent cotton with a heat resistant core that protects the user around the kitchen, from lifting hot pan lids to removing dishes from the oven. Available to the trade at £2.90, with a RRP of £6.99, Draw UK is yet again delivering high quality and a high potential profit margin for retailers. The launch of these pot grabs further bolsters Draw UK’s kitchen textiles range which features an array of tea towel designs and aprons in fun, characterful designs. All products are manufactured using a heavy weight, 100 percent cotton to give a luxury feel to the products. Again, Draw UK recognises the importance of introducing exciting new products whilst at the same time offering real value to its retailers. Draw’s tea towels are £4 to the trade with a RRP of £9.50 whilst its aprons are £7.10 with a RRP of £15.99. “Our textiles range really is unrivalled,” comments Draw UK’s managing director, Will Digby. “With so much choice across tea towels, oven gloves, aprons and now our new pot grabs, we aim to add a touch of fun to any kitchen counter and offer truly fresh new designs and ideas for our customers’ shelves. The overall kitchen textiles offer ensures Draw UK remains at the forefront of giftware design with one of the largest, most relevant and enduringly popular ranges in this sector.” www.drawuk.co.uk CANDLEMELEON Influenced by bold, geometric forms and the architectural wonders of South Beach, this superb Candlemeleon Miami Art Deco candle is infused with bergamot and lavender. Fragranced with sub-tropical citrus and tempered by vintage musk, this candle quicksteps you back to Roaring 20s Miami. Once you light its wooden wick, you will want to let loose and sip on your favorite cocktail. https://candlemeleon
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