STEVE GOMEZ JOINS WARMIES UK TO ACCELERATE EUROPEAN GROWTH Warmies® has appointed former Ty executive Steve Gomez to help lead the brand’s next phase of sales growth across Europe. The appointment follows a period of rapid international expansion for Warmies, including exceptional growth in the United States, increasing momentum in the UK and the continued development of its global licensing programme. In his new role, Steve will work closely with the Warmies UK team to grow sales across European markets, strengthen relationships with existing retail and distribution partners, and identify new opportunities in priority territories. Steve brings extensive experience across the toy, gift and consumer products industries, with particular expertise in plush, collectibles and character-led merchandise, as well as a strong track record of developing successful commercial partnerships across multiple international markets. David Tweedale, CEO of Warmies, said: “We are delighted to welcome Steve to the business. He is a highly respected figure within the industry and brings an exceptional level of commercial experience, market knowledge and long-standing relationships. “Warmies has achieved tremendous growth in the United States, and we are now seeing strong momentum in the UK and across a growing number of international markets. Our retail presence continues to expand, while our licensing programme has developed rapidly, with more than 30 licensing agreements now in place. Steve’s appointment gives us additional expertise and focus as we look to build stronger retail and distribution partnerships throughout Europe.” Warmies is best known for its distinctive range of fully microwavable plush, wellness and comfort products, combining warmth, softness and a soothing lavender aroma. The brand occupies a unique position across the toy, gift and wellness categories, appealing to a broad consumer audience ranging from children and families to adult gift and lifestyle customers. Warmies products are now sold through an expanding network of toy retailers, gift stores, pharmacies, department stores, lifestyle outlets and specialist retailers. Commenting on his appointment, Steve Gomez said: “I am very pleased to be joining Warmies at such an exciting stage in the company’s development. The brand has created a genuinely distinctive proposition by bringing together comfort, wellness, gifting and licensed characters in a way that strongly resonates with consumers. There is considerable potential to develop the Warmies business across Europe, both with existing partners and through new retail and distribution relationships. I am looking forward to working with the team and helping to deliver the next stage of growth.” Steve’s appointment forms part of Warmies’ broader strategy to increase its presence across international markets, expand its licensed product portfolio and establish the brand as a leading global name in comfort, wellness and gifting.” GIFT OF THE YEAR 2027 LAUNCHES AT HOME & GIFT HARROGATE AS THE SEARCH BEGINS FOR THE INDUSTRY’S NEXT STANDOUT PRODUCTS The Home and Gift Association, previously The Giftware Association, is delighted to announce the official launch of Gift of the Year 2027, with entries now open following its launch at Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival, Harrogate. Recognised as the UK’s most respected awards programme for the home and gift industry, Gift of the Year continues to champion innovation, creativity and commercial excellence. As the competition opens for a new year, entrants can look forward to even greater value, enhanced exposure, and exciting new opportunities, with entry prices frozen for 2027. The decision to hold pricing at the same level comes as The Home and Gift Association continues its commitment to supporting brands of all sizes, helping them gain valuable recognition and connect with retailers to showcase their products to the industry’s leading buyers and decisionmakers who judge the awards. More value, more exposure, same entry price Over recent years, Gift of the Year has evolved into far more than an awards competition. Entrants benefit from extensive industry exposure through media coverage, social media promotion, retailer engagement, judging opportunities, finalist showcases, and the prestigious winners’ celebration. For 2027, entrants will once again gain access to a platform designed to put products in front of influential retailers, buyers, distributors, and industry experts, all while keeping entry costs the same as the previous year. New luxury gift category introduced Among the exciting updates for 2027 is the introduction of a brand-new Luxury Gift Category, created to recognise premium products that deliver exceptional craftsmanship, quality, and desirability within the gift market. The category reflects the continued growth of the luxury gifting sector and provides a dedicated space for brands creating products that offer a premium gifting experience. The return of ICONS The ever-popular My Gift of all time will return as the ICONs category also returns for 2027. A favourite among both entrants and the industry, this unique category allows brands to celebrate products that have stood the test of time, whether they launched recently or many years ago. Unlike many categories focused exclusively on new products, My Gift of All Time recognises those enduring gifts that continue to delight consumers, drive sales, and deserve additional recognition. The category offers companies the opportunity to shine a spotlight on proven favourites that remain at the heart of their collections. Entries are now open, and brands, designers, makers, and manufacturers from across the home and gift industry are encouraged to submit their products and take advantage of the opportunities available through the competition. Whether launching a brand-new innovation or celebrating a product with proven success, Gift of the Year 2027 promises to be another exciting showcase of the very best the industry has to offer. For more information and to enter, visit www.giftoftheyear.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS 13
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