announced - Gift Focus magazine

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Issue 108 July/August 2018

www.giftfocus.com

Christmas C hristmas p products roducts – p part art o one ne

WIN! WINNERS

£500 RRP worth of stock from ClimeMET

announced

London Stationery Show Farm Shop & Deli Show

TOP MAN Men’s accessories

PLUS Halloween Home accessories Photo frames & albums

SPOTLIGHT ON... Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

July/August 2018 Issue 108

contents focus on...

Editor Lucy Macdonald

news&events

business with heart 27 Heart of the Country marks WWI anniversary with a special partnership

industry news All the latest from the world of gifts

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on with the show Trade fair dates and news

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Account Manager Sharon Dengate +44 (0)1376 535 607 [email protected]

brand spanking new Latest launches and new products

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Production +44 (0)1376 535 616 [email protected]

hot property 53 Catch up on what’s new in the world of licensing

Chief Sub Editor Louise Prance Marketing Manager Michael Richards Sales Manager Sarah McLean

Production Manager Scott Brothwell Senior Graphic Designers Chloe Edey, Stephanie Hodder, Vicky O’Connor, Sarah Young Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley

retailer interview 57 Hambledon owner Victoria Suffield speaks about the independent department store’s evolution

bookshelf The latest books to hit the shelves

namaste’s showroom event 132 The company welcomes visitors to its open week

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shows

Subscriptions Beth Varney +44 (0)1376 514 000

award winners announced London Stationery Show

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KD Media Publishing Ltd Pantile House, Newlands Drive Witham, Essex CM8 2AP UK www.giftfocus.com

accolades announced Farm Shop Deli winners

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welcome to Harrogate Home & Gift preview

65

inside interiors Formex preview

126

where style resides HOMI preview

129

global sourcing Kenfair preview

130

Gift Focus is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. 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. Subscription rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing Limited and sent to Gift Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP UK.

company profile 46 Managing director Julian Hunt from leading supplier Lesser & Pavey tells Gift Focus about the company’s future plans

competition 149 Win £500 RRP of stock from ClimeMET

Production Assistant Charlotte Potter

Cover image courtesy of: Xystos

company profile 29 Jude Kenney and Stacey Barthorpe from card company Molly Mae talk about their product offering

business advice 135 Really Good and Soul founder David Hicks shares his tips on cracking the U.S. the ga 139 All the latest from the Giftware Association retail technology 142 David Fairhurst looks at the importance of category names for e-commerce insurance Brokers TH March answer your insurance-related questions

anti copying in design 146 ACID CEO Dids Macdonald discusses taking action against online infringers up & coming 154 It’s been a successful start for the Curious Department co-founders Chris McShane and Ross Taylor

successful show 140 Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair review

Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated with and supporters of:

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Average Net Circulation: 6,880

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features picture perfect Photo frames & albums

25

home comforts Home accessories

33

looking sharp Men’s accessories

41

spooky delight Halloween ideas

51

(01/07/16 to 30/06/17)

MEDIA SUPPORTER

ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN

special feature ’tis the season Christmas part one

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JH Designpoint

ringing in the changes Welcome to my first issue as editor of Gift Focus. I thoroughly enjoyed putting together this edition for you and look forward to the next few issues at the helm as I step into the Rachel’s shoes while she is on maternity leave. Show season is in full swing, and after putting together a packed Home & Gift preview, which starts on page 65, I do encourage you to turn to it to help plan your time at the show. I’m excited to head to Harrogate for the first time to see all the wonderful products and ideas on the stands. I hope to see lots of you there! That’s not all the show coverage, though, as in this issue there are previews for HOMI and Formex as well. Although we are still at the height of summer, getting in stock for the upcoming seasonal events is key. With this in mind, I have rounded up some nifty ideas for Halloween over on page 51, and the countdown to Christmas begins with part one on page 19 – keep your eyes peeled for part two in September/October. Enjoy the issue!

Lucy Editor

Dartington Crystal

VISIT US ON facebook.com/giftfocus twitter.com @gift_focus pinterest.com /giftfocus Instagram.com /giftfocusmag

Editor loves… Beautifully decorated vases can transform a room and the flowers that they hold. The John Beswick collection of vases and giftware from Dartington Crystal can work as functional items or decorative pieces. giftfocus 5

industry news Catch up on all the latest in our news round up THE NATIONAL TRUST JOINS ACID The National Trust has recently joined Anti Copying in Design (ACID) to lend its support to the organisation’s mission of encouraging original design work. ACID is the leading UK and IP membership and campaigning body committed to raising awareness and encouraging respect for IP. With more than 300 stores and an online shop, the National Trust’s retail range is an important income generator, funding the work the conservation charity undertakes to protect the special places in its care. The intellectual capital, of which intellectual property plays a key role, is paramount. Releasing four collections per year, the National Trust’s in-house designers seek inspiration from the range of properties and the natural environment in the charity’s care. Each print is unique to the charity and represents national treasures that are being preserved for everyone to enjoy. Dids Macdonald, OBE., CEO of ACID, said: “We are delighted that National Trust is supporting Anti Copying in Design, not only to help protect its own in-house designs but as an advocate of the original design of others. From writers to fabric designers and photographers to painters, the protection of their intellectual property is paramount.” For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk, acid.uk.com

DISTRIBUTION DEAL FOR KITCHENCRAFT KitchenCraft has announced the acquisition of the exclusive distribution rights for the Maxwell & Williams and Casa Domani (owned by HAG Corp Australia) brands for the UK and Ireland, which were previously distributed by Valerie Graham Ltd. Maxwell & Williams is an iconic brand that, for 22 years, has been a trusted name in tabletop, providing an exceptional product range for every consumer need, no matter their age or style preference. With a family-owned Australian heritage and availability in more than 50 markets around the world, Maxwell & Williams is known for producing high-quality fine bone china, porcelain, glassware, stainless steel and acrylics. The brand is also dedicated to cultivating the best Australian talent and has collaborated with an exceptional stable of renowned illustrators and artists. “We are absolutely delighted with this new partnership,” says KitchenCraft MD, Matthew Canwell. “This development opens up different channels of distribution for us and complements our current tableware brands, including Mikasa. With the Maxwell & Williams portfolio also offering some wonderful glassware ranges and cutlery, we have become a veritable one-stop shop for the dining category.”

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ROYAL WINNERS Bath-based gifting company Wild & Wolf is celebrating after picking up a Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2018, one of the UK’s most respected business awards. Judged solely on merit, the awards recognise and celebrate business excellence across the UK. First instigated by Royal Warrant in 1965, the esteemed Queen’s Awards for Enterprise has a long history of recognising exceptional UK businesses. Wild & Wolf has been recognised for its excellence in International Trade, demonstrating substantial international growth in overseas earnings and commercial success within its sector. It is one of a group of 238 organisations nationwide to be presented with the prestigious accolade. Paul Taylor, CEO at Wild & Wolf, said: “It is a great honour to have been awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade. We’ve experienced tremendous growth in our international trade, particularly in the past three years. Once a predominantly UK-driven business, by the end of 2018, two-thirds of our business will be outside of the UK, with the U.S. being our single biggest market.” The company will celebrate its award during a Royal reception for Queen’s Awards winners this summer.

news and events

NEW APPOINTMENT Accessories brand A Gift From The Gods continued its expansion into the wholesale market with the appointment of experienced sales manager Ryan Sloan. The brand, along with its range of accessories, stationery, jewellery and loungewear, has been attracting all the right kinds of attention from commercial buyers in recent times. This strategic appointment looks set to cement its reputation as a strong wholesale player. Ryan’s varied experience in a range of fashion brand organisations will help to support further strategic growth in the next phase of the A Gift From The Gods brand odyssey. Ryan is no stranger to key account sales, having most recently worked with iconic footwear brand Birkenstock. There, he achieved some impressive results, exceeding yearly forecasts and securing a number of new, high-profile accounts. Previously, he worked with a large global apparel and accessories brand, growing and maintaining key international accounts. A dynamic and driven sales professional, Sloan is a natural relationship builder and looks set to bring energy, enthusiasm and expertise to his new role. Ryan says: “I’m delighted to be joining an exciting and dynamic brand just at the right time when it is attracting attention from top buyers. I will be creating a key account sales strategy and developing a network of international distributors. The product portfolio is diverse yet coherent, and there are so many opportunities for the brand. I can’t wait to get started.” Visit agiftfromthegods.com

The winner of our March/April competition is Cathy Headdock from Bay Tree Gifts in Wickham. She’s won £500 RRP of jewellery from Rosa Red. To win £500 RRP worth of stock from ClimeMET, head over to page 149.

ENESCO MANAGING DIRECTOR STEPS DOWN Enesco’s managing director, Ken Johnson, made the decision to retire at the end of May 2018 after five decades in the ceramic and giftware industry. Starting thanks to Anthony Wood and his father, Gerald, Ken was fortunate enough to sell its products in London in the ’60s, which were followed by regular trips to the U.S. and Canada, where he first met Enesco and Mr Gene Freedman. Some years later, Ken joined Border Fine Arts, which became the agents for Enesco in the UK and Ireland in 1989. Enesco Ltd, as it is now known, was formed in 1993. Ken was at the helm of the business for 12 years.

HENRYKA TO GROW BRAND IN THE SOUTH EAST WITH FIRST SALES AGENT Fast-growing British jewellery brand Henryka has welcomed its first sales agent, Ian McWilliams. He will work alongside sales manager Hollie Francis to grow the brand in the South East. Experienced sales professional McWilliams, who works with a range of well-known industry brands and service providers, will be responsible for growing the influence of Henryka across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex. These key areas are a source of untapped potential for Henryka, which has already won the favour of more than 70 stockists across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Many of its most successful partners are based in countryside locations, with local customers and tourists alike finding a synergy between the landscape and Henryka’s nature-themed designs. In recent months, Henryka has added to its best-selling Birds & Bees and All Creatures Great & Small ranges with its Exotic Palm collection for SS18. This tropical offer is accompanied by fresh model imagery, which is being developed into point-ofsale materials and a customer-facing lookbook.

From L-R Henryka founder Anna Emmett, new sales agent Ian McWilliams and Henryka sales manager, Hollie Francis

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industry news

RETAILERS MUST GET SHARPER ON CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT TO AVOID CHURN, WARNS TRYZENS Recent retail sales figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) highlighted the pressing need for retailers to focus on making the customer experience more innovative and engaging, according to ecommerce systems integrator Tryzens. The integrator has urged retailers to review and update their digital capabilities to weather the current storm. Announced recently, the BRC KPMG retail sales monitor report revealed the sharpest decline in retail sales since 1995. UK retail sales fell by 4.2 per cent on a like-for-like basis compared with April 2017, reinforcing the notion that the UK may see negative growth in 2018, making the UK one of the declining retail markets in the world. Commenting on the figures, Andy Burton, CEO of Tryzens, said: “Whilst one set of analysis should not be a precursor of things to come, these numbers should act as a cautionary note to retailers that continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty can markedly affect overall sales. Consumers are still spending, but how, where and when they do is dramatically changing. “Retailers now need to fight harder to win their share of customers’ wallets and ensure that their channels are aligned with the market. At the same time, they need to make customer engagement a consistent, intuitive and engaging experience for the consumer. The retailers that are winning in the market today are the ones that have perfected their digital customer-engagement strategies and have the ability to adapt quickly to market changes. This is because they have cracked the challenges of achieving a single view of their customers and stock, coupled with a flexible enhancement delivery model.” He continued: “The digital revolution we are going through means that there are some relatively simple steps that they can take to improve their performance. Retailers have never had the amount of access to consumers and their shopping data as they do today to gain insights into their target market and how their customers shop and spend, which can be leveraged to improve service and engagement. “To succeed in this climate, it is essential that retailers showcase great products, demonstrate good value and provide consistency of offers (and access to them) across channels with a strong responsive design across device types to drive sales conversion and loyalty.” Visit tryzens.com for more information. 8 giftfocus

HALE EVENTS SUPPORTS FINAL STRAW CORNWALL In 2018, Hale Events supported Final Straw Cornwall at the Expowest Cornwall trade show. Final Straw Cornwall is a campaign to rid Cornwall of single-use plastic straws and raise awareness of the damage single-use plastics are causing to the environment. The campaign ran a Straw Amnesty where businesses visiting the show could bring in old plastic straws. Over the course of the event, around 30,000 straws were collected from a broad cross-section of businesses, such as takeaways, restaurants and hotels, for upcycling. Inspired by the levels of support for the campaign from so many businesses, organisations and individuals within the Cornish community, Hale Events has decided to aim to go single-use plastic free at all its 2019 trade shows. It will be actively looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to any single-use plastic used at its shows. As well as no longer using plastic carrier bags, Hale Events is planning to stop using plastic wallets for exhibitor and visitor badges, which tend to be only used once and then thrown away. It has come up with innovative solutions for 2019 that enable exhibitors and visitors to pre-print badges or collect them on arrival and then use completely recyclable badge clips to fix them to clothing or bags, avoiding the need for wallets. Hale Events also works closely with event caterers to remove single-use plastic from its offerings. At Expowest Cornwall, Truro & Penwith College, the event caterers, introduced a wave of environmental improvements and initiatives aimed at reducing single-use plastics and creating a cleaner environment for Cornwall. It has removed single-use plastics from the restaurant, and replaced them with compostable paper cups, biodegradable takeaway containers and cutlery. It also stocks resealable cans of water, made from aluminium, which are 100 per cent recyclable, instead of plastic water bottles. Hale Events will also be working with event exhibitors, suppliers and contractors to help minimise the plastic waste brought to its trade shows by other organisations. For more information about Hale Events and their trade shows, please visit hale-events.com or call 01934 733433. For more information about Final Straw Cornwall visit finalstrawcornwall.co.uk.

SOCKSMITH BRAND LAUNCHED AT PULSE LONDON Californian sock brand Socksmith has launched into the UK, using Pulse London as its launchpad. The brand has developed a one-off, upbeat character with a prolific, different and fun design ethic and is distributed widely across the U.S. The brand’s aim is to offer something fun and different to brighten every day. Socksmith launches a new stock range and seasonal range for men and women separately every season. The brand has already had a great reaction in the UK, with sales having got under way early with both major fashion stores and the gift shop sector, including national treasures such as The Natural History Museum and The National Gallery. The socks are being distributed by N16 Vintage. Visit socksmith.com

on with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad

Diary dates Manchester Furniture Show When: 15th - 17th July, 2018 Where: Manchester Central, Manchester Website: manchesterfurnitureshow.com Home & Gift When: 15th – 18th July, 2018 Where: Harrogate International Centre, North Yorkshire Website: homeandgift.co.uk NY Now When: 12th – 15th August, 2018 Where: Javits Center, New York Website: nynow.com Formex When: 21st – 24th August, 2018 Where: Stockholmsmässan, Sweden Website: formex.se IJL When: 2nd – 4th September, 2018 Where: Olympia, London Website: jewellerylondon.com Autumn Fair When: 2nd – 5th September, 2018 Where: NEC, Birmingham Website: autumnfair.com Maison & Objet When: 7th – 11th September, 2018 Where: Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris Website: maison-objet.com/en Top Drawer When: 9th – 11th September, 2018 Where: Olympia, London Website: topdrawer.co.uk (All dates are subject to change. Contact the organisers for more information before making arrangements).

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair taking bookings for next year After another bumper event in 2018, Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair is open for bookings for its 2019 show, which takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre from 13th to 16th January, 2019. This is a not-to-be-missed event for manufacturers and suppliers of festive, all-yearround gift and garden ranges, as the show is a favourite for multiple, independent and garden centre buyers sourcing new products. Simon Anslow, show organiser, explains: “Harrogate Christmas & Gift has seen significant growth in the past five or six years, filling seven halls of the Harrogate Convention Centre and attracting almost 5,000 serious buyers. Products on show have diversified from simply Christmas decorations to a large range of toys, gifts, greetings cards, aromatherapy products, confectionery, garden ornaments and even furniture ranges. The show is a favourite with garden centre buyers – so almost anything found in this type of retail setting can now be sourced at the show.” For more information about the show, prices and booking forms, visit the website at harrogatefair.com – alternatively contact Simon Anslow, show organiser on +44 (0)1902 882280 or [email protected]

BCTF AWARDS BRITISH DESIGNER-MAKERS April saw another successful edition of The British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) take place at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, where more than 400 of the best British designermakers showcased their latest creations to the trade. One of the show’s highlights was the hotly anticipated BCTF awards ceremony, which took place when the exhibition closed on April 9th and was well attended by exhibitors. The winners, highly commended and commended exhibitors were: BCTF Award For Excellence Sponsored by: PSM Ltd Winner: Anderson Creations Highly Commended: Albert And Alfred Commended: Sarah Saunders Ceramics Best Newcomer Award Sponsored by: Craftanddesignonline Winner: Charlotte Wilkinson Glass Highly Commended: Rouaida Jewellery Giftware Association Award For Excellence

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Winner: Charlotte Hupfield Ceramics Highly Commended: Ann Charlish Studio Commended: Rachel Thornton Award For Excellence In Jewellery Sponsored by: The National Association Of Jewellers (NAJ) Winner: Ellen Monaghan Highly Commended: Caroline Finlay Greetings Card Award Sponsored by: Greetings Today Winner: Faye Stevens

Highly Commended: Rhombus And Pineapple Commended: Artinker, The DM Collection, Catherine Kleeli Cards Greetings Today editor Tracey Bearton gave the Just Because award to Rhian Winslade Ceramics Wow Factor Sponsored by: DesignGap/ArtGap and voted for by exhibitors Joint winners: Joanna Coupland and Albert And Alfred For more information visit bctf.co.uk

news&events

Successful show for Pulse In May at London’s Olympia, Pulse welcomed a discerning audience of enthusiastic visitors seeking the latest design trends and cuttingedge products. The show offered an edit of products from new emerging designer-makers and launches from well-loved brands, and the buyers were not left disappointed. Retailers were presented with the next must-haves and the freshest design talent. Big-name buyers out in force included Arcadia, Aria, ASOS, Bentalls, British Museum, Debenhams, Fenwick, Harrods, House of Fraser, John Lewis, Liberty, Heal’s, National Trust, Notonthehighstreet.com, Oliver Bonas, Scribbler, Selfridges, The Conran Shop, The White Company and The V&A. A popular new addition to Pulse 2018 was Makers Live, a showcase of live demonstrations and interactive workshops from designermakers. It proved a great way for visitors to understand the creative process behind the products from Catherine Lewis Designs, Rosa Pietsch, A-Laise, Glorious Mud Ceramics and Scribble & Daub. Another highlight was the daily ShopTalk conference, which was presented by 5X15 – curators of inspirational talks and workshops. Shoptalk provided visiting retailers with invaluable business advice and support from a lineup of high-profile speakers. Keynote speakers included Kris Manalo from Heal’s, who discussed the story of how new products are made, and celebrity designer Sophie Conran in conversation with journalist Katie Law. Pulse returns next year from 12th – 14th May, 2019, at Olympia London. Keep up to date with all news at pulse-london.com

A highlight at the end of the first day’s trading was the announcement of the annual Pulse Awards, celebrating the very best in innovation and design. Judged by leading retail experts including Sarah Sevier, head of retail at the V&A; Kris Manalo, senior buyer at Heal’s; Katie Law, deputy literary editor of the Evening Standard; Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire of Mini Moderns; and Barbara Chandler of the Evening Standard.

Best Newcomer Winner Lucy Tiffney Runner-up OFFDN Best Brand Presentation Winner Yod & Co. Runner-up One We Made Earlier Best New Product (Makers and Brands) Winner XD Design, Runner-up PR Home Best New Product (Living) Winner Gedigo OY Ab Runner-up Ark Colour Design Best New Product (Fashion) Winner ROKA Runner-up Jessica Wilde Design

Glee organisers report display of support from the garden retail sector More than 300 exhibitors are confirmed to attend Glee (set to take place 10th - 12th September at the NEC), helping to keep the 2018 event on track to be the most vibrant and exciting showcase of garden, landscaping, outdoor leisure and pet brands anywhere within the garden retail calendar. Key brands include leading pet food experts Royal Canin, as well as Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Festive Productions – who will be showcasing an exciting solar lighting link-up with Duracell, Gorse Lodge Garden Ornaments alongside Asia Style and Greenkey Garden & Home. Returning again is the Retail Lab, which launched last year to critical acclaim and was a place to experience the beating heart of the industry with a view to what the future holds. Combining interactive content with inspirational product displays and tangible business advice, the Retail Lab cemented itself as a thriving hub of inspiration and knowledge at Glee. This year, the area will once again be supported by creative director Romeo Sommers, leading trend predictors WGSN, the HTA and Paula Parker of PP8 Marketing. Glee is also introducing an enhanced Pets at Glee section, which aims to make it easier for garden centre pet buyers to directly source 2019 ranges while also benefitting from unrivalled networking and educational content. Marking a significant investment for this new era of Pets at Glee, the special pet care seminar stage will offer content that can be implemented in store to boost pet care within the garden retail environment. To keep up to date on the latest Glee news, visit gleebirmingham.com. To inquire about exhibiting at Glee 2018, call +44 (0)203 033 2160. giftfocus 11

on with the show Autumn Fair caters to artisanal products with new showcase As part of its 2018 show offering, Autumn Fair is launching Global Handicraft, a showcase of artisanal products from across the world. The £3billion UK craft industry is growing by 4.5 per cent per year, and the artisanal trend has become a key feature of the home and gift market globally too. Global Handicraft at Autumn Fair 2018 will see manufacturers feature bespoke ranges, from jewellery to fine ceramics and from exotic textiles to quirky lighting, allowing retailers the opportunity to be the first to stock the rare products. The showcase, which will run for the full length of Autumn Fair at NEC Birmingham

from 2nd – 5th September, 2018, will also feature live demonstrations by talented craftspeople and seminars for retailers on how to take advantage of the booming handicraft market. Louise Young, the managing director of Spring and Autumn Fair at Ascential Events, said: “With this new section, buyers can get their hands on products that are handmade, inspiring and steeped in culture, and get their orders in ahead of the competition. Global trend forecaster WGSN has been tracking this trend for a long time and also predicts it will become increasingly important across all interiors categories in the seasons to come.”

Pure London expands with launch of Pure Kid London’s biggest festival of fashion, Pure London, continues to expand with the launch of Pure Kid, a new edited curation of kids’ fashion, footwear, accessories and maternity collections. Launching in July in response to the fast growth in this sector, Pure Kid will offer a platform for standalone childrenswear brands. The sector will sit alongside womenswear brands that already offer kidswear such as Hatley, 4Funky Flavours, Dekoz and Sugarhill Brighton. Julie Driscoll, managing director of Pure London, says: “The children’s and maternity-wear sector is worth $158 billion dollars globally*, and key trends such as mini-me dressing, influential celebrity parents and an ever-increasing number of blogger parents who curate their kids’ Instagram feeds are driving more style-conscious parents to look for childrenswear that chimes with their own personal aesthetic and values. We are very excited to add Pure Kid to our expanding show, and the collections will also be brought to life on our much-loved catwalk shows.” The next edition of Pure London and Pure Origin takes place at London Olympia from 22nd – 24th July, 2018. For more information, visit purelondon.com *Source Euromonitor

NEW EXHIBITORS HEADING TO SCOTLAND’S TRADE FAIR AUTUMN For inspirational gifts to stock this Christmas, make sure you attend Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn, which will be held at the SEC in Glasgow from 16th – 17th September, 2018. Brimming with fresh talent, this year’s show has a host of new exhibitors in both the Launch Gallery and the main show. The Launch Gallery is the place for inspirational products, as all exhibitors must be trading for under two years. Ones to look out for in particular are Lumens for its stunning glass Christmas decorations, Botanic Isles’ jewellery, Cascayde’s cushions and gifts for interiors, The Divine Hag’s aromatherapy products, Clarabella Christie’s upcycled interiors and Rama McCrorie’s stationery. In the main show, there is a host of new exhibitors, and more than 170 will be there in total, which includes the Food Section. For further information, visit scotlandstradefairs.co.uk 12 giftfocus

Looking ahead HOMI Milan When: 14th – 17th September, 2018 Where: fieramilano, Italy Website: homimilano.com Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn When: 16th – 17th September 2018 Where: SEC, Glasgow Website: scotlandstradefairs.co.uk Brand Licensing Europe When: 9th – 11th October 2018 Where: Olympia, London Website: brandlicensing.eu Style Fair When: 17th – 21st October Where: BITEC, Thailand Website: stylebangkokfair.com Mega Show Part 1 When: 20th – 23rd October 2018 Where: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre Website: mega-show.com Jinhan fair Home & Gifts When: 21st – 27th October 2018 Where: Guangzhou, China Website: jinhanfair.com Mega Show Part 2 When: 27th – 29th October 2018 Where: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre Website: mega-show.com For further show previews and reports turn to: P65 Home & Gift preview P126 Formex preview P129 HOMI preview P130 Kenfair show review P140 Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair review

brand spanking new

brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market Kit Heath Ltd RRP: £15 - £30 A refreshing new collection of summery, fun sterling silver charms by Dew, the lifestyle and gifting collection by the award-winning silver jewellery designer and supplier Kit Heath Ltd. The diverse collection is full of exclusive designs from the in-house design team. From ice cream cones to palm trees and flamingos to toucans, the endearing charm pendants are the perfect gifting solution, appealing to a wide range of customers and occasions. The Kit Heath field representative team is available for full presentations of the collection at your convenience. The full collection is available to view on the brand-new and updated B2B website and in the stunning new seasonal full colour catalogue. T: +44 (0)1271 329 123 E: [email protected] W: kitheathretailer.com

Charlotte’s Web RRP: £55 - £80 Ibiza, amongst many things, is known for its beauty and mystique, as the island has a magnetism that makes it hard to leave. The Ibiza Map jewellery from Charlotte’s Web features the Scorpio star constellation, which shines its powerful light over this magical island, blessing it with creativity, transformation and freedom. This jewellery is a truly luxurious memento of a personal Ibiza experience that allows one to take some of the island’s magic away whenever you wear it. It’s also a thoughtful gift for those who would appreciate its power and simple beauty. Made from sterling silver 925 and micron plated in 14ct gold, the necklaces dazzle with a sparkling gemstone constellation, and the bracelets are an embossed constellation only. T: +44 (0)7717 744 738 E: [email protected] W: charlotteswebuk.com

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Enesco SRP: £8.95 - £9.95 Enesco has announced three new pet figurines will join the Willow Tree family: Love My Cat (light), Love My Dog (small, standing) and Love My Dog (small, lying). As with all Willow Tree figurines, artist Susan Lordi carves the original figure from her studio in Kansas City, Missouri. Pieces are then cast from her carvings and individually painted. The hand-carved forms reveal their expressions through body gestures, be it a tilt of the head or a turn of the body. Emotions and feelings are left to the viewer to discern, which makes them personal yet universal. Measuring in height 7.5cm, 5cm and 3cm respectively. T: +44 (0)1228 404 022 E: [email protected] W: enesco.co.uk

From You to Me RRP: £9.99 Poet Brian Patten’s new book, The Book of Upside Down Thinking, is being published by From You to Me under its new Forget Me Not Books imprint of exquisite gift books. The Book of Upside Down Thinking is an enthralling collection of wise and witty rhymes inspired by traditional folk stories from the near and Middle East, many dating back as far as the 11th century. Brian has been internationally renowned since 1967 as coauthor of the ground-breaking poetry collection The Mersey Sound, written with fellow-Liverpudlians, Roger McGough and the late Adrian Henri. Selling more than 500,000 copies, the book is widely credited with bringing poetry off the shelf and on to the streets and kickstarting the performance poetry movement. “We’re delighted to work with Brian on this wonderful gift book” says Helen Stephens, director of design and new product development at From You to Me. “The deep-red fabric cover with foil blocking reflects the quality of Brian’s verse within.” T: +44 (0)1225 866 225 E: [email protected] W: forgetmenotbooks.com

Disney x Couture Kingdom RRP: £18 - £95 Disney x Couture Kingdom offers a licensed range of premium Disney jewellery inspired by Disney animations and films. Evoking fun and nostalgia, there is an accessory for every fashion-loving Disney fan. Bold and whimsical or elegant and romantic, Couture Kingdom’s jewellery designs add Disney magic to your everyday look. The collections are designed for adults who believe you’re never too old to be young! To celebrate the 90th birthday of Walt Disney’s most iconic character, Mickey Mouse, Couture Kingdom’s popular earrings range has been expanded to include a new Mickey Mouse birthstones range. Featuring durable stainless steel, with Swarovski Elements crystals representing each of the 12 months, these adorable earrings are the perfect gift or keepsake. Already stocked in major retailers, including The Disney Store, Disney x Couture Kingdom is now available to independent gift and jewellery retailers via an easy-to-use website. All Disney x Couture Kingdom jewellery is presented in official Disney packaging. T: +44 (0)121 314 6564  E: [email protected] W: couturekingdom.co.uk/wholesale

KC Lux Flowers RRP: from £85 The Eternity Box is a grand superior flower box gift. These boxes are created with real roses that last up to a year. The soil-grown roses are cut at their peak bloom and preserved to keep their natural form and beauty. The company’s flower boxes do not require any water and should be kept out of direct sunlight to avoid premature fading. These divine forever roses will add year-round style and elegance to any room or space. They are available in a wide range of stunning colours, and it is easy to find the perfect rose colour to match interiors. The luxury flower boxes are available in sizes small, medium and large and have a choice of black or cream hatboxes – ideal for a luxury present, a wedding gift, special birthday or for an anniversary. T: +44 (0)7703 849 316 E: [email protected] W: kclux-flowers.co.uk giftfocus 15

brand spanking new

Kenro RRP: £12.95 ex VAT Just in time for summer, Kenro has released a pair of brandnew holiday albums. These bright, upbeat memo albums each hold up to 200 6x4” / 10x15cm photographs, with a discreet writing area beside each photo for notes. The inspirational New Adventures album features an open road stretching to a sunny horizon, overlaid with the words 'Say Yes To New Adventures.' Its companion, the Wanderlust album, features a warm yellow cover with a stylish word cloud filled with positive travel phrases: Wanderlust, Discover, Enjoy, Travel, Memories, Holidays, Explore, Good Times and Adventure. These high-quality albums are bang on-trend and ready for dispatch now, in time for your customers’ returns from their summer holidays. Order codes: New Adventures – HOL121; Wanderlust – HOL122. T: +44 (0)1793 615 836 E: [email protected] W: kenro.co.uk

Henryka RRP: RRP £25 to £180 British jewellery brand Henryka has launched its new Exotic Palm Collection for Spring/Summer 2018. The significant new launch captures the shape of tropical leaves and lush palms in sterling silver, including statement earrings, pendants and delicate studs. At the heart of the collection are the eye-catching Areca Palm Leaf earrings, available in both small (RRP £85) and large (RRP £180) sizes. These are complemented by daintier pieces, including the Split Leaf Palm necklace and Split Leaf Palm stud earrings, inspired by the Split Leaf Philodendron that is native to the tropical forests of Mexico. The Palm Burst stud earrings, matching Palm Burst necklace and the Fallen Leaf Palm earrings offer a more abstract and contemporary take on the leaf inspiration. These designs are ideal to wear every day and suit summer gifting at RRP £25, £30 and £45, respectively. Finally, the Dwarf Leaf stud earrings create a feminine fan shape with teardrops of green amber set in sterling silver. Further pieces set with natural gemstones will be added to the collection over the coming months. T: +44 (0)1432 266 538 E: [email protected] W: henryka.co.uk

brand spanking new Groovy UK Ltd RRP: £20 Struggling with that back-toschool feeling? Not anymore thanks to this amazing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Back To School Backpack. The gold printed logo and pattern on the front pocket brings this bag to life for all those wizarding fans, not to mention the gold Harry Potter custommade zip pulls. Groovy’s new Wizarding World collections also now include Platform 9 ¾, Quidditch, The Golden Snitch, Dobby the House Elf and Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them. Groovy UK designs and manufactures many unique gift lines including bathrobes, slippers, lighting, bags and ceramics. Licences include Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, Suicide Squad, Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, Assassin’s Creed, Deadpool, Mr. Men, Gudatam and Frida Kahlo.  T: +44(0)844 372 7820 E: [email protected] W: groovyuk.com

D & J Glassware RRP: £21.99 As the first UK supplier to bring Tree of Life glass balls to the market, D & J Glassware is justifiably proud of the stunning designs. Each one is mouth-blown by master glassblowers, using recycled crystal glass from the wine-glass industry. David and Jocelyne are constantly developing new ideas, gaining inspiration from walks on the North Norfolk coast, visits to galleries and gardens and, of course, discussions with customers. The popular collection will now include two exciting new designs: the Friendship Tree of Life and the Tree of Hopes and Dreams. Each one has its own special sentiment and comes individually boxed, making it a gift to cherish. T: +44 (0)1953 450 280 E: [email protected] W: dandjglassware.co.uk

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Pintail Candles RRP: £4.50 - £5.50 Scents of Christmas is the brand-new festive candle range by Pintail Candles. The expertly crafted fragrances evoke a sense of celebration and nostalgia, which are complemented by evocative phrases and an opulent styling that captures the spirit of Christmas. This yuletide extravaganza of rich, seasonal colours and enchanting flourishes guarantees an eye-catching display for the busy gift-giving season ahead. With 12 seasonal fragrances to choose from, there is bound to be a perfect scent of Christmas to suit every taste. Why not cosy up with Christmas Spice? Take a walk in a Winter Wonderland. Or dust off your tutu for the Sugar Plum Fairy. The company also presents its signature fragrances in beautiful sophisticated styling, capturing the elements of the classic scents of Summer Fruit & Prosecco, Sea Salt and Linen & White Pepper. The 12 Elements candles are exquisitely presented in bespoke designs, lovingly created for each fragrance. Individual wax colours are carefully crafted to complement this gorgeous candle experience. Specially created for this new range is the Rosewater & Ivy fragrance, blending delicate notes of rose, peony, honey and amber. T: +44 (0)1539 559 007 E: [email protected] W: pintailcandles.com

Jo Clark Design RRP: £2.65 New from Jo Clark Design is the Catty Christmas greetings card range, a selection of handillustrated cards featuring feisty felines who want their own way at Christmas. There are nine hilarious cards in the range, and they are sure to cause some giggles this Christmas. Order your stock now! The designs are digitally printed on to FSC paper, and the cards are paired with recycled paper envelopes. Each card measures 105x148mm. T: +44 (0)7886 193 734 E: [email protected] W: joclarkdesign.co.uk

christmas part one

’tis the season

Start stocking up for the festive season now with these jolly products

Baylis & Harding – distributed by Xystos – will be making the festive season fun with its delightful new Fuzzy Duck and Skin Spa Winter Wonderland collections. High-quality bath and body products are beautifully packaged with Christmas in mind. The Fuzzy Duck range includes a bauble with bath bubbles, while a robin and Christmas tree adorn a Tall Travel Cup and cream cableknit socks gift set, which accompanies foot lotion. The collection – with RRPs from £6 to £30 – also includes a hatbox, which houses personal care items. A gorgeous plush polar bear is at the centre of the Skin Spa collection, where bath fizzers make these bear essentials a must. RRPs are from £8 to £25. T: +44 (0)1914 991 570 W: xystostrade.co.uk

Add a personalised touch of Christmas magic to your home with the Personalised Memento Company’s new collection of wooden decorations. The Santa Claus decoration is a perfect way to commemorate a special Christmas, be it baby’s first Christmas or even a first Christmas in a new home. PMC’s range of personalised wooden Christmas decorations prove to be hugely popular year-on-year. Many are available on a rapid lead time too, making them attractive as gifts leading right up until Christmas. Each item in PMC’s extensive range is made to order, meaning there are no minimum order quantities. What’s more, all orders with PMC can also be drop-shipped straight to your customer, removing the need for you to hold stock. T: +44 (0)1782 744 900 W: personalisedmemento.co.uk

A highlight from Joe Davies is the Starlight Christmas Dome collection. This Scandi-style range features natural wooden scenes captured within attractive glass domes. Warm LED lights in the domes make them stunning Christmas decorations for the mantelpiece or Christmas table. These and more Christmas products will be on the stand at Harrogate Home & Gift (Hall Q, Stand E18). Everything from Joe Davies’ extensive range is available to buy in its signature ‘little and often’ quantities, and its industry-beating minimum order value of just £100 makes this an opportunity not to be missed. T: +44 (0)1619 756 300 W: joedavies.co.uk

It might still be summer, but Christmas is very much in the minds of virtually all retailers. Best Kept Secrets has two wonderful collections of Christmas Candles, with the the very best fragrances, designer labelling and, of course, plenty of sparkly toppings. A combination of fragrance, colour and fun that can appeal to the widest spectrum of customers right across the country. This tried-and-tested collection in new designs guarantees sales at this important time of year. Vanessa Curry, managing director at Best Kept Secrets says: “Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh, plus Snowflake, remain at the top of customers’ Christmas Candles choices. And a Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without Hot Cinnamon, Spicy Satsuma and Sleigh Bells.” T: +44 (0)1670 512 222 W: bestkeptsecrets.co.uk giftfocus 19

’tis the season

For Christmas gifting, Ashleigh & Burwood is introducing its popular Home Gift Sets in two festive scents from the Artistry collection. Each Home Gift Set contains a votive Scented Candle fashioned from beautiful, light-refracting fluted glass, a scented fabric heart and a petite 50ml reed diffuser with white fibre reeds for brilliant diffusion. For the first time, these adorable gift sets – presented in a homeshaped gift boxes – are available in Christmas Time and Frosted Snow fragrances. They join a collection of scented candles and reed diffusers also available in festive fragrances that make ideal gifts this Christmas. T: +44 (0)1932 267 060 W: ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Included in The Puppet Company’s popular Long Sleeve Puppets collection is Father Christmas and a Snowman, arguably the festive season’s favourite puppet characters. Large enough to accommodate an adult-sized hand, these beautiful puppets will bring hours of fun to any Christmas celebrations. Manufactured from high-quality plush materials with close attention to detail, they will bring a smile to old and young alike. T: +44 (0)1462 446 040 W: thepuppetcompany.com Attractive china baubles make welcome gifts. These stunning and special designs are made of English bone china, exclusive to JH Designpoint. If desired, the baubles can be supplied in transparent boxes with the wording ‘English bone china’ in gold. The baubles are around 60mm diameter. Shown is the gold and red dragon design. T: +44 (0)1413 394 927 W: jhdesignpoint.net

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D & J Glassware’s Christmas Glassware Collection was shortlisted for this year’s Gift of the Year award. This beautiful handmade collection includes Christmas Trees, Roundels, Angels, Robins, Hearts and Stars. The Company’s fragrance collections add to the festive ambience with fragranced Pine Cones, the delicious Christmas Spice-fragranced Scent Diffuser and, new for 2018, Christmas Pot Pourri. You can also visit D & J Glassware’s stands at Harrogate Home & Gift (Hall Q Stand D23) and Autumn Fair International, Birmingham NEC (Hall 5 F16). T: +44 (0)1953 450 280 W: dandjglassware.co.uk

christmas part one

This year, Gibsons will be unveiling plenty of exciting new products for the Christmas season. Amongst the selection will be three brand new Christmas puzzles with an array of piece counts to suit the entire family. The first is Santa Scramble. Adorned with twinkling snowflakes, this gorgeous bauble may look like an innocent tree decoration, yet it encases 250 pieces of Christmas chaos! Illustrated by Armand Foster, the jigsaw inside this festive trinket will provide hours of entertainment and look magnificent in any tinsel-laden Christmas tree. Unbox 12 festive surprises with Gibsons Christmas countdown puzzle, Christmas Street: 12 Days of Christmas Calendar. Behind each door is an irresistible treat in the form of an 80-piece jigsaw. The 12 puzzles eventually create one gorgeous, panoramic Christmas scene. Finally, there is the 16th limited edition Christmas puzzle, Driving Home for Christmas. This ever-popular 1,000-piece puzzle contains a serial numbered certificate, making it the ideal collector’s gift. With celebrations in the village well under way, residents make their final journey home before Christmas. Greeted by warm mugs of mulled wine, sleigh rides and the brightly lit carousel, everyone is getting into the Christmas spirit. T: +44 (0)208 661 8866 W: gibsonsgames.co.uk

Christmas 2018 is right around the corner, and Puckator is ready to Get Lit this festive season. With a fab array of festive lights and candles, it has got everything you need this holiday season to light up your store like Santa’s Grotto. This year has seen a continuous trend for cute fairy lights, shaped LEDs and string lights; all of which won’t be fading fast once the run up to Christmas begins. With a fantastic selection of LED decorations to choose from at Puckator, your shelves will be bursting with merry delights. The Festive nights LED range can be purchased in Christmas tree, snowflake and reindeer designs. There is an extensive collection of seasonal string lights, including a beautiful set of mesh copper stars and an adorable set of Santa and his reindeer mini string lights. To top the whole selection off with an ambient glow, have a nosey at the festive candles on offer. Puckator stocks a wonderful range of kitsch festive candles – there are realistic Christmas trees and oversized pinecones to sit with adorable Santa and snowmen tea light sets, creating a lovely Christmas glow. T: +44 (0)1579 326 901 W: puckator.net

Brand new for 2018, Enesco is presenting two hand-made hanging decorations from Treasury of Ornaments. The Rose Hanging Ornament is shaped like a heart, featuring a floral design using rich colours of red, green and gold with gentle white accents. The Paisley Bell Hanging Ornament is bell-shaped and features a traditional paisley print pattern, using deep tones of purple, pink and green, and is accented by hints of gold. The process of creating these beautiful pieces begins with the intricate sculpting of wire on to each bauble to create the pattern design. Then, artistic shapes are created and brought to life with the hand-painting of colour, using enamel glass paint, before each bauble is then carefully packaged into a luxury gold gift box. Perfect for proudly displaying around the home, the new items from Treasury of Ornaments make a stylish statement all-year round. Both the Rose Hanging Ornament and Paisley Bell Hanging Ornament retail with a SRP of £26. T: +44 (0)1228 404 022 W: enesco.co.uk

Gisela Graham’s 2018 Christmas collection is another winner. The company is one of a handful of the world’s Christmas specialists that designs the greater part of the range, creating the difference that helps its mainly independent loyal retailer customers to stand out from the crowd. For 2018, she presents 16 themed ranges spanning an exceptionally wide variety of tastes and styles: glamorous, glorious, exotic, childish, traditional or plain fun. Sometimes, she will take a familiar genre and give it a charming original twist. This year, she tweaks the Scandinavian look by creating nutcracker characters in Scandinavian clothing. A surprise is the regal and golden Balmoral theme. Each range covers several merchandise categories and not just the famous baubles but also snow globes, gifts, table decorations and heritage figures. T: +44 (0)207 708 4956 W: giselagraham.co.uk giftfocus 23

photo frames & albums

picture perfect Ensure memories stay safe and enjoyed for years to come

Joe Davies is proud to offer one of the largest selections of photo frames in the UK. The company is famous for its wide and varied frame offering and will introduce many new designs at Home & Gift. Don’t miss the trendy, bestselling Message Clip Frame collection, which will encompass new double- and triple-picture formats. This popular range features sentimental messages to accompany treasured photographs of friends and loved ones. The collection is just one of the many exciting ranges on offer on the extensive Joe Davies stand at the show. T: +44 (0)1619 756 300 W: joedavies.co.uk Some of Kenro’s most popular ranges have been expanded and refreshed to make them bigger and better than ever. The fun, colourful Candy Series (CN) of albums is expanding ready for summer. The series is available in two playful, art-printed designs: pastel-coloured stripes complemented by a blush pink spine or brightly coloured spots on an off-white background paired with a teal spine. The existing memo albums for 200 photographs are being joined by minimax albums in both sizes and designs, as well as a self-adhesive version. In frames, the Kenro Ambassador Series (AM) of wood frames has undergone a complete refresh. These frames are superior quality, hand-crafted in solid rubberwood. They are available in a choice of warm natural wood or black finish. These exceptional frames are finished to the highest standard and feature a 20mm square profile, plus a generous 10mm deep white bevel mount. They are available in a choice of 10 popular sizes, from 6x4” up to A3. T: +44 (0)1793 615 836 W: kenro.co.uk

Building on the success of its launch in January 2018 as a collection within the Demdaco range, Enesco announced new items for the Sharon Nowlan Collection for June. A Place to Call Home, measuring 15x15cm, is a piece that features small pebbles carefully crafted together to create a scene showing a small house standing serenely by a towering tree. The Sharon Nowlan Collection uses nature as inspiration for immortalising precious moments in life. Sharon uses pebbles in her creations, turning them into framed scenes that say so much with so little in a simple yet beautiful style. The art speaks to the heart and is open to interpretation by each person admiring her work, making them very attractive and highly personal gifts. SRP of £25. T: +44 (0)1228 404 022  W: enesco.co.uk

Celebrate the best of friendships with the Personalised Memento Company’s new Besties Box photo frame. This trendy design is perfectly suited to a variety of occasions and is great for both girls and young women. PMC’s personalised box photo frames are all on-trend in their own right and are available in designs for all occasions, including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, weddings and anniversaries. PMC supplies an enormous range of personalised photo frames and albums, with a design to suit every taste and occasion. Visit the trade website to browse the range today. T: +44 (0)1782 744 900 W: personalisedmemento.co.uk giftfocus 25

heart of the country

businesses with heart

Heart of the Country launches Greenleaf Painted Poppy Sachets in support of the Royal British Legion Heart of the Country is proud to announce its partnership with the Royal British Legion on this centenary year of the Armistice with the launch of a limited-edition scented sachet. This Autumn/Winter season, Heart of the Country is looking to raise £36,500 for the Legion by selling 36,500 Greenleaf Painted Poppy large scented sachets. The target of 36,500 represents every day that has passed since the end of the Great War on the 11th of November, 1918. The Royal British Legion The Legion was founded by veterans after the First World War. A century on from the start of that conflict, it’s still helping today’s servicemen and servicewomen, veterans and their families in almost every aspect of daily life. The Legion also champions Remembrance, safeguarding the memory of those who have given their lives for our freedom through Remembrance education and events. Ben France, head of corporate partnerships at The Royal British Legion, says: “We’re delighted to have partnered with Heart of the Country and Greenleaf on the Painted Poppy Scented Sachet. The funds raised from the sale of these sachets will ensure we can continue our vital work providing through-life support to the Armed Forces Community. This year is

particularly important to us as we mark the end of the First World War and lead a national movement to say thank you to the entire generation who lived through the war, served, sacrificed and changed our world. We are so grateful for every moment of support.” Ben Stubbs, director at Heart of the Country, commented: “This year will be the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. So many of us, including [fellow director] Toby and I, have great grandparents and great uncles who fought, died or survived and families who gave everything in the Great War. We owe them everything we have today, and they should never be forgotten.” The Scented Sachet Each large Greenleaf Painted Poppy sachet will bear the iconic poppy of the Royal British Legion and the Poppyscotland logo and donation information. Painted Poppy is Greenleaf’s new fragrance for Autumn/ Winter 2018. It is a confident fragrance with a powerful boost of juicy mandarin, a floral

heart and a base of warm musk and amber. Each beautifully decorated scented sachet will fragrance a room for up to four months by just being there. Greenleaf’s scented sachets are 100 per cent biodegradable and made using the naturally occurring mineral vermiculite, made with recycled paper and essential oils. Scented Sachets are just about the safest way to fragrance your home, with no heat, no flame and no liquid – just fragrance. Manufactured in South Carolina, U.S., Greenleaf has been producing sachets for more than 40 years and is the original scented sachet. The Donation For every sachet supplied at trade, Heart of the Country will donate £1 directly to the Royal British Legion. To achieve this donation, Heart of the Country will be sacrificing its margin. Greenleaf, the manufacturer, has also generously supplied the sachets at a reduced cost to Heart of the Country. The final contribution is made by the retailer, who will pay £0.25 extra per sachet, taking the unit trade cost from £1.44 to £1.69. This final contribution means £1 of the £1.69 total trade cost will go directly to the Royal British Legion. For sachets sold in Scotland, the £1 donation will be directed to Poppyscotland, the Legion’s partner charity north of the border. g

Heart of the Country will be launching Greenleaf’s Painted Poppy Sachet in support of the Royal British Legion at Home & Gift, Harrogate, Stand A26. The range can also be viewed at Autumn Fair, NEC, Stand 3G23. For more information visit heartofthecountryltd.co.uk, contact [email protected] or call +44 (0)1543 481 612 giftfocus 27

company profile

warm greetings Joint-owners Jude Kenney (left) and Stacey Barthorpe

Gift Focus talks to joint-owner Jude Kenney of Molly Mae as the card company celebrates 10 years of exhibiting at Home & Gift Christening invitations, party invitations, thank you notes and gift wrap. What’s your most popular collection? The Carried on the Breeze range has been incredibly popular, with its many titles covering a huge range of occasions as well as birthdays.

Who started the card company Molly Mae, and what was the reason for doing so? Follow joint-owner Stacey Barthorpe and I started the company because we both have a huge passion for design. Stacey had a gift shop and supplied local shops with handmade cards, and I was working as a graphic designer at Great Ormond Street Hospital but wanted to work in a more creative environment. We both felt we’d like to join together and each had some great ideas, so back in 2009 we booked a tiny stand at Home & Gift before having sold a single card. So there in Harrogate, Molly Mae was launched.

Where does the name come from? Molly Mae is a combination of my daughter’s name, Rosa Mae and Stacey’s daughter’s name, Molly. Tell us about your product offering. Molly Mae focus mainly on greetings cards, but we also do wedding stationery,

Have any designs taken you by surprise with their popularity? Or any designs that simply didn’t sell? Some of the higher-end age cards in the Flutter on the Breeze range have sold incredibly well. Molly Mae has always had fabulous sales with the age range, but recently age cards from 50 onwards have flown out of the door. How do you keep your cards fresh? How often do you launch new lines? We tend to look outside of the industry for inspiration, such as at clothes and jewellery

How has the company developed over time? Molly Mae has grown from the two of us to seven people in the team based in our studio/ office with another two or three outworkers, who do the hand-finishing and sleeving. The ranges have grown too – we have cards for every occasion you could possibly think of, and in terms of design, Molly Mae has perfected the foiled and embossing look seen on many of the new designs. giftfocus 29

fashion, homewares and nature. Additional designs are added to ranges consistently, but totally new collections are launched on average four times per year. What have been the key milestones in the business? Molly Mae will celebrate 10 years exhibiting at Home & Gift in Harrogate this July, so that’s a big milestone. A couple of years ago, we won a local business award. By winning this award, we received help from experts in a variety of different fields, and that has allowed us to run our business more efficiently and helped the business grow. So winning was a very proud moment for Molly Mae but has also been essential in the business’s success.

How are you finding the current economic climate in the UK? Is it affecting business? We use UK-based businesses for all our card, envelopes, printing supplies and so on, so any external economic problems have not affected us. In fact, we have seen continuous growth in the business over the past two years. Are you active on social media? How is this important for the business? Yes Molly Mae is active on social media, and we regularly post on Instagram and Facebook, as well making the odd tweet here and there. We find it creates good links with new trade customers, suppliers and direct public customers and is helping to lift the business’

profile within the industry. We use Instagram to connect customers with our artistic side too, as we can show designs in progress or videos of Stacey creating new drawings. It’s also a great tool for our customers to provide instant feedback. Do you visit trade shows? Which ones, and how are these important for the business? We exhibit at Spring Fair in Birmingham, at Home & Gift in Harrogate and, this year, we also exhibited at Top Drawer London. The shows are great for meeting and engaging with new customers, for meeting potential new suppliers and to network with our peers face-to-face. Do you have any tips for new traders? Try to be an individual, find a style that’s unique to you and follow that. What can we expect in the future from Molly Mae? We have lots more exciting new designs and ranges, so look out for Spring 2019, when we will be launching some new beautiful botanyinfluenced designs. For further information: +44 (0)1455 557 115 mollymae.co.uk

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Please contact us for a trade catalogue: www.classiccanes.co.uk

RRP £5.99 Cost price £2.50

RRP £8.99 Cost price £3.75

• Fresh, unique, and colourful brand • Unique paint tin containers (regular candle tins also available) • Original, imaginative fragrances

• Designed in Scotland, hand-poured in Cumbria

T: +44 (0)7887 423 069 E: [email protected]

www.esscentualcandles.com

home accessories

home comforts Gifts that add a personal touch

Enesco has added a new Miss Mindy collection to its portfolio, fronted by the Candy Queen figurine. This stone resin figurine is hand-crafted with exquisite details like peppermint swirls, while the folds of her skirt part to reveal a lightup scene of cotton-candy trees and a gingerbread house. A hot new artist on the collectables scene, Miss Mindy has a whimsical take on the world, and her design aesthetic is completely ontrend. With their big heads and eyes juxtaposed against small mouths and noses, her figurines are perfect for adults and young adult consumers looking for a more unique collection to call their own. Miss Mindy is proving to be the next big thing in collectable figurines. This figurine stands 26cm tall, includes three LR41/AG3 batteries and is presented in a branded gift box. It retails with an SRP of £89.95 and is available to buy along with other Miss Mindy figurines via the website. T: +44 (0)1228 404 022 W: enesco.co.uk

All you need for the perfect afternoon tea. Beautiful bone china teapots, jugs and mugs, featuring wildlife paintings by awardwinning artist Mary Ann Rogers. Part of a range of bone china tableware produced by Mary Ann Rogers Gallery and inspired by subjects seen from her studio in the wilds of Northumberland, where many of the subjects for her paintings are seen right outside her window. Along with her originals and limited-edition prints, Mary Ann’s work has translated seamlessly on to wonderful homewares, gifts and stationery. Her leaping foxes, startled guinea fowl, voluptuous tulips, racing hare and proud cockerels all burst with life and colour. Carefully observed, each painting captures the essence of the outdoor life that Mary Ann loves so much and has the ability to bring a little piece of the countryside into your kitchen or living room. T: +44 (0)1434 270 216 W: marogers.com

From J J Vaillant’s hugely popular Once A Tree range is this 17-drawer Almirah Cabinet. This stunning piece is hand-crafted and beautifully polished with a superior handwax finish, made using solid mango wood from sustainable sources and fairly traded. It comes with 17 colourful handpainted pottery drawers, making this a practical as well as a stylish addition to the home. It’s a great solution for storing trinkets. Trade Price is £69.50 with a SRP £168. More designs and sizes are available, from tall narrow drawer units measuring 94cm high to small trinket cabinets at 18cm high.  T: +44 (0)1213 800 720 W: jjvaillant.com Cheese and wine is the epitome of stylish entertaining, and Gourmet Cheese by Creative Tops ensures hosts can effortlessly provide this dining experience. New accessories in this expertly crafted collection include rustic cast iron cheese bakers for deliciously melted cheese, natural acacia wood tools and boards to serve with, plus vintage-style ceramics with which to dine. An indulgent fondue party needs the new cast iron fondue set, the ultimate piece for contemporary dining and entertaining at home. A new cheese dome is a striking centrepiece, made of marble and acacia wood with a glass dome to beautifully present cheese selections and keep the food deliciously fresh. Excellent quality tools have natural acacia wood elements, including freestanding graters and individually boxed cheese knives, while rustic butter knives are simply carved from wood. T: +44 (0)1536 207 710 W: creative-tops.com

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home comforts

Wraptious has announced the new Splatter Lovebirds design by awardwinning artist Katherine Williams. Made from supersoft vegan suede, this adorable owl design forms part of Katherine’s best-selling Splatter cushion range, with each piece lovingly hand-made in the UK. The cushions come complete with a fibre insert and measure 45cmx45cm. RRP £26. Also new from the company is A Bad Hair Day. This highland cow design is part of the bold new home accessory range by competition winner Adam Barsby. Adam’s brilliant animal portraits have been printed on to solid ceramic mugs and come complete with their own box. The mugs are all made in the UK, and the artists are paid for every sale. T: +44 (0)1614 302 310 W: wraptious.com

Frith Sculpture has added some 15 new additions to its collection for the Autumn/Winter season. New designs will be added to most of the ranges, including Cockapoos, Cats, Farmyard and Wild Animals, Dogs, Highland Cattle, Donkeys and more. All have been designed exclusively for Frith by its artists and are manufactured by hand in the West Country. Some of these will be fitted in with the successful new Miniature collection (MINIMA), which features exquisite small animals with a RRP of £25. T: +44 (0)1666 577 110 W: frithsculpture.co.uk 34 giftfocus

Global Luxury Brands has a wide range of new pieces from De Rosa. Each one is hand-carved in a fine ceramic body before being fired, hand-painted and gilded. They are all works of art and testaments to the skills of both the modellers and skilled artisans at the studio in Uruguay. The new Abanico Cats are just some of the wonderful pieces for 2018. Joining them is a true example of the sculptors’ art, the Elephant, which is a limited-edition piece of superb quality. Slightly more accessible is the new range of piglets in a selection of inspiring colours. These wil be shown at Home & Gift. T: +44 (0)1538 807 780 W: globalluxurybrands.co.uk

Everyone needs a little inspiration and something different to brighten up the home. The John Beswick collection of vases and giftware from Dartington Crystal is a must for art lovers and any interior. With striking colours and designs inspired by famous works of art, any of these pieces would sit perfectly as a standalone item or as part of a group with other items from their individual collections or a mix of several artists with colours that tie together. The vases have uniquely sculptured top edges to give a point of difference with stunning interior colours that complement the exterior artwork. With a mixture of vases, tea lights, coasters, trinket boxes and pocket mirrors to choose from, there is something for everyone. And each one can be a functional item or a decorative piece within the home. T: +44 (0)1805 626 226 W: johnbeswick.co.uk

THERE’S A RANGE OF DIFFERENT DESIGNS TO SUIT EVERY INTEREST.

JH Designpoint AWARD-WINNING AND EXCLUSIVE MUGS, VASES AND BAUBLES DESIGNED AND MADE IN THE UK Simple but effective design on bone china mugs, vases and baubles

The full range of mugs, can be seen at www.jhdesignpoint.net

0141 339 4927 | [email protected]

www.jhdesignpoint.net

¨ :;

; 30*,5:05. 9 (

Nadiya Hussain is looking to develop a select range of products with licensees and manufacturers. b A ready to use licensing style guide is available. b If you are interested in working with Nadiya please contact : b Ian Downes at Start Licensing b e :[email protected] t : 0208 337 7958 m : 07776 -228454

home accessories

According to Best Kept Secrets over the last few weeks there has been an increase in customers are turning away from liquid soaps because of the plastic packaging content. The community spirit and collective responsibility for our environment is now transferring itself to the products we buy for the home. There is a noticeable return to solid soap subject to the soap being made with natural products. Best Kept Secrets offers a range of 30 handmade natural soaps including Lavender & Patchouli which is made with essential oils. Vanessa Curry, Managing Director of Best Kept Secrets, said; “The British public have taken on-board their individual responsibility to the environment. This applies both in the home and in the world at large.” T: +44 (0)1670 512 222 W: bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Buoyed by the success of its Menagerie and Sunday Best ranges, Repeat Repeat has added another eccentric range to its collection. The new Cobaltic Sea designs are inspired by all things nautical and consist of a whimsical collection of creatures set in a quirky maritime world. They are printed in a classic vibrant cobalt blue, making it perfect for coastal-themed interiors. The mugs are generously proportioned and hold well more than half a pint, with a comfortable outsized handle. The bone china is lovingly hand-made in the company’s hometown of Stoke-onTrent, and Repeat Repeat is determined to fly the flag and keep the traditions of the English potteries alive. T: +44 (0)1782 845 870 W: repeatrepeat.co.uk

Tilnar Art, a Fairtrade supplier, will now be the new home of Azeti Interiors. Azeti offers a high-quality product range that Tilnar feels will be a great fit for many retailers. Azeti is an established Fairtrade brand with more than 10 years’ experience developing and refining its ranges. Azeti prides itself on the high quality of its products. Its signature range is the Recycled Aluminium Collection, which comes individually gift boxed, making it a great gift item. Other new products for 2018 that are now in stock include an expanded Champagne Grey, including many new products and smaller and larger sizes; Spiral Peacock Blue Soapstone collection; Soapstone Snowmen and Father Christmas; Carved Wooden Animals; Red Robin Heart Plant Stakes; Red Robin Hanging and Standing Cage Birdfeeders; Painted Seedpod Giraffes; Beaded Collection, and an expanded Religious collection. Contact Tom or Nicky on [email protected]. T: +44 (0)1277 362 815 W: tilnarart.co.uk

This pretty mug and creamer is from JH Designpoint. The mug design is based on Jacobean embroidery, but its timeless appeal will brighten shelves and delight the user. And who can resist a creamer with snowdrops? Designed by botanical artist Mary Bates, this is one of the most popular of JH Designpoint’s ranges. There are larger jugs (halfpint and pint) for those who like more milk or the option of a set. Get in touch to inquire about gift boxes. T: +44 (0)1413 394 927 W: jhdesignpoint.net giftfocus 37

home comforts Since Wild & Wolf’s first collaboration with Orla Kiely in 2011, with the launch of its gardening collection, the brand has continued to go from strength to strength. This season, Wild & Wolf is celebrating Orla Kiely’s iconic design handwriting through a beautifully designed collection of homeware accessories. Highlights include the Square Flower Layered Vase, an elegant ceramic vase in a vibrant dandelion yellow colour, as well as the small Striped Petal Stem Vase in a delicate rose pink colour.  Following the popularity of the Dachshund Wooden Serving Board in SS17, this season sees the launch of the Ela Elephant Cheese Board, a unique and stylish shaped acacia wood serving board complete with two Linear Stem print cheese knives secured beneath a removable slate platter – an ideal piece for entertaining!  Expanding on the popular Orla Kiely enamel kitchenware collection, Wild & Wolf is also pleased to be introducing new Enamel Storage Jars that feature Orla’s iconic Linear Stem print in retro colours, including Persimmon, Slate Grey and Dandelion Yellow. T: +44 (0)1225 789 909 W: wildandwolf.co.uk Lesser & Pavey is delighted to preview the Sandy Bay range of kitchen accessories, as well as items for the summer picnics by the sea. Sandy Bay comprises cushions for comfort; a lunch bag and cooler bag for picnics; a shopper and beach bag for carrying towels and goodies; a mug and mug coaster for hot beverages; a gift set for the coastal lover of two mugs with coaster tray; salt and pepper for the tomatoes and egg cups for the morning boiled egg; coasters, placemats, three sizes of trays, a butter dish, tea towel, apron and oven glove; a spoon rest, lap tray, two styles of glass cutting board a melamine cutting board and more. The range captures much of the home accessories and home on the move to seaside jaunts. Each item is of exceptional quality and presented in individual gift packaging. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225 W: leonardo.co.uk

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Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters. Introducing the beautiful range of clocks and weather dials from ClimeMET, available to personalise with a quote, the name of your town or local beach. Mix and match with other weather dials in the range, such as a garden thermometer for gift shops in the English countryside or a tide clock for gift shops along Britain’s stunning coastlines. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, the clocks and weather dials are available in four colours: Slate Grey, Classic Cream, Rose Copper and Golden Bronze. For free delivery on your first trade order, call the ClimeMET Team and quote GIFT2018. T: +44 (0)1787 883 138 W: climemet.com

Dog lovers can show off their precious pet or keep a beloved pet’s memory alive in photo frames that carry messages such as ‘A home without a dog is just a home’ and ‘Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.’ The frames are part of Splosh’s Precious Pets range, which is distributed by Xystos. T: +44 (0)1914 991 570 W: xystostrade.co.uk

RRP £5.99 Cost price £2.50

RRP £8.99 Cost price £3.75

• Fresh, unique, and colourful brand • Unique paint tin containers (regular candle tins also available) • Original, imaginative fragrances

• Designed in Scotland, hand-poured in Cumbria

T: +44 (0)7887 423 069 E: [email protected]

www.esscentualcandles.com

men’s madeaccessories in britain

looking sharp we round up those essential gifts for men

Goodlookers rs wants to help men tto llook good this season, and its trendy range of readers can help them do just that. Retro-style specs continue to be a top look among men, and standout styles in the Goodlookers’ Autumn/Winter ’18 collection include West, which sports a stylish marble-esque finish, and Nico readers in an ultra-trendy mottled metallic finish. Other range highlights include Bloomsbury, incorporating a round frame shape that is on-trend with a distinctive flat brow-line certain to make the right fashion statement. T: +44 (0)1634 713 900 W: goodlookers.co.uk

Walking stick specialists Classic Canes reports burgeoning sales of canes featuring skulls. Managing director Charlotte Gillan explains: “The skull motif has long been popular among collectors in the gothic style but now has become quite mainstream thanks to designers featuring it on scarves and other accessories. We have a range of skull canes in various materials such as resin and silver plate, which is glamorous for the evening.” T: +44 (0)1460 75686 W: classiccanes.co.uk

For the past three years, The Music Gifts Company has strongly increased its focus towards men’s accessories since the introduction of a specific men’s range, Element. This means that as well as a great selection of music-themed gifts for men, there are more than 200 sports-themed gifts. Both ranges are on show at this year’s Home & Gift. New men’s gifts being featured at the show include glasses cases, socks, mugs and ties, as well as a great selection of cheeky gifts within Element for sporting enthusiasts. T: +44 (0)1202 570 057 W: musicgifts.co.uk and elementgifts.com

The men’s Bedside Coin Tray is one of the most sought after gifts from the British award-winning brand Winter in Venice. The set comes complete with luxury toiletries infused with seaweed extract and fortified with vitamins and includes a high-quality 90-grade beechwood nail brush. All of this is packed in a reusable brown coin tray that is ideal to hold a mobile phone, keys, cufflinks, watch and even spectacles. Any father would appreciate this gift, which would remind him of loved ones each time he sees it on his night stand. T: +44 (0)845 652 1223 W: winterinvenice.co.uk

giftfocus 41

looking sharp

Opticaid UK, creator of the Remaldi reading glasses brand, is expanding its men’s selection. Buyer Gillian Marchbank says: “Each season, the range grows to meet demand. We successfully supply department stores, garden centres and pharmacies, who often ask for an extra men’s only display stand.” The team will launch the AW18 range at Harrogate Home & Gift. Among the many new styles are preppy Woburn in a horn and black finish, eye-catching Marylebone Black and fashionable Belfast Tortoise. Each product retails for great value at £12.99 and comes in six reading strengths. The team will also showcase its new stylish night sight overglasses, RRP £14.99. T: +44(0)113 239 1400 W: opticaid.net Hasso Fashion has elegant British-made jewellery for men and women that is stylish and intriguing. The company wants to let people express themselves with a wide range of gemstones – a full range of birthstones launches at Home & Gift – in a choice of three precious metals: gold, silver and rose gold. This is to match all tastes, whether reserved or extravagant, classic or contemporary. All products are ethically sourced and made in the UK. Around 1.3 carats of gemstones are in each pair of cufflinks, which are presented in a wooden gift box with a traditional wax seal for that special feeling. The bestseller is Madeira Citrine, created Tanzanite and Peridot.  T: +44 (0)191 465 9988 W: wearhasso.com

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Jewellery for men is big business, and Tribal Steel from Midhaven is the leading brand, with more than 130 different styles of leather bracelets in an assortment of sizes and colours. New lines are introduced each season, the prices are extremely competitive and quality is high – top-skin leather is used, which means the bracelets are soft and supple. Stainless steel is 316L, which is jewellery grade and hypoallergenic. Trade prices range from under £5 to £25. Sizes are from 19cm to 24cm, with the fastest-selling size of 21cm accounting for around 70 per cent of sales. The Tribal Steel Men’s Collection comes with excellent customer service, and the team can put together a best-selling selection to suit your customer base and budget. A new Men’s point of sale is available free with orders of at least £250 or over and includes branded hessian pouches. T: +44(0)1299 851 513 W: midhaven.co.uk Box office smash The Avengers has gone from strength to strength. The Guardians of the Galaxy feature in the film, with the cute Rocket and Groot and other Marvel heroes such as Black Panther, Iron Man, Captain America and Spiderman, who all have their own ranges at Groovy UK for those hardcore superhero fans. DC Comics’ Justice League also has its own ranges: Batman, Superman, Aqua Man and The Flash. And don’t forget Star Wars! Groovy will be updating its large Star Wars offering with a Han Solo and Rebellion range for the latest Anthology film, Solo: A Star Wars Story. Whether you are a Jedi, have joined the Rebellion or have gone to the Dark Side, Groovy has the perfect gift, with a selection of robes, slippers and lighting available. RRP for robes is £32- £55 and £12 for slippers. T: +44 (0)844 372 7820 W: groovyuk.com

Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-C55

[email protected]

01582 882124

men’s accessories

ClimeMET is introducing this beautiful range of clocks and weather dials, available to personalise with a quote, the name of your town or local beach. Mix and match with other weather dials in the range, such as a garden thermometer for gift shops in the English countryside or a tide clock for gift shops along Britain’s stunning coastlines. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, the clocks and weather dials are available in four colours: Slate Grey, Classic Cream, Rose Copper & Golden Bronze. For free delivery on your first trade order, call the ClimeMET Team and quote GIFT2018. T: +44 (0)1787 883 138 W: climemet.com Sourcing new and unique gifts for men is a challenge for buyers each year. Jola Designs, which is based in Cheshire, makes quality gifts for men that are printed in-house with no minimum order. Without the constraints of minimum orders, buyers can be creative with their selections, allowing them to try new ideas without any risk. Jola’s City range has proved to be popular over the past five years, and sales have been strong again this year, with many of its independent stores stocking the new bespoke Bestest Daddy City collection. This July, Jola will be launching its new men’s T-shirt range. The 100 per cent cotton T-shirt will be available in white and grey and in four sizes. Jola is confident its gifts will enhance displays. So whether it’s a cycling or golfing promotion, the design team is happy to work with retailers to collate a visually strong bespoke collection for stores. T: +44 (0)1625 503 162 W: joladesigns.co.uk

Men’s jewellery continues to grow in popularity, and the Equilibrium for Men collection from Joe Davies is no exception. These stylish yet masculine woven leather bracelets, complete with metallic accents, put a modern spin on any look and come complete with a branded Equilibrium box for a luxurious finish. Fabulous quality and affordable prices ensure this contemporary collection is constantly up there in the Equilibrium list of bestsellers. Equilibrium for Men boxed wallets and scarves are always a popular choice for the second half of the year, as they make perfect gifts. The debut of RFID protection boxed wallets by popular customer demand will add handsome appeal to this highly successful collection. This collection is available to order in small quantities with a minimum order value of just £100 for free nationwide delivery. T: +44 (0)1619 756 300 W: joedavies.co.uk giftfocus 45

changing with the times

As Lesser & Pavey approaches its 50th birthday, managing director Julian Hunt says the company is relishing the challenges of the future of the first to work directly with Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China. Having outgrown the premises in Hatton Garden in London more than 35 years ago, the business moved to new premesis close by still in Dartford, where we stayed for another 10 years. With the significant growth of the business in the ’90s, new 15,000 sq ft offices and a showroom were purpose-built to match the growing needs of the business. Leonardo House gives us the space and facilities to expand extensively and remains the home of the business, which boasts a range of 5,000plus products. Tell us about your product offering. The majority of the product range is made up of exclusive products designed by the hugely talented in-house design team. The design team works closely with the buying team in identifying and developing the latest trends and translating these into highly saleable products. In addition to this, we work with a number of artists who are briefed and commissioned to produce original artwork for exclusive new products. The other important

When did Lesser & Pavey start up? What was the reason for setting up this business? Established in 1971, Lesser & Pavey has grown to become one of the UK’s leading supplier in the giftware and homewares markets. We pride ourselves on offering high-quality and beautifully gift-boxed products at affordable prices. How has the company developed over time? The well-known brand The Leonardo 46 giftfocus

Collection has become renowned worldwide. The Leonardo Collection is established as an international brand name to be recognised and trusted, supplying the retail sector with quality, hand-sculptured figurines as part of the collectable ranges offered. The lady figures were especially popular alongside animal studies of wild birds, field mice, dogs and cats. The brand name is still very much at the forefront of ranges, as it’s known for its quality collections that have diversified since its original concept. We were importers of European glassware and ceramics and one

company profile In the past two or three years, some of the company’s most popular ranges have been those that appeal to a younger customer base. On-trend designs featuring flamingos, unicorns, mermaids and, most recently, llamas have been hugely popular. What has been happening with the business this year? This year has already welcomed the sales executive appointments of Edd Cannan for the Midlands and Wales, and Matt Slade for the southern part of the country, covering the Home Counties and London. Also, Jonny Greves is now part of the product development and buying team after having worked in the giftware trade so he is appreciative of the consumer’s desires. We are supplying the ever-changing demands of consumerism with exciting merchandise to encapsulate fashion and interior trends whilst maintaining quality and affordability. Do you visit trade shows? Which ones, and how are these important for the business? We have been exhibiting at trade shows all over the world since the beginning of Lesser & Pavey. We were an exhibitor at the first Spring Fair and continue to have a large stand to display our full range at all major international events during the year in the UK and overseas.

source of new designs is through licensing and includes The Macneil Studio, Jennifer Rose Naylor and Hearts Designs, to name a few. What’s your most popular collection? Currently, a really popular range is the Mad Dots Collection by Heart Designs, which encompasses baby and wedding gifts, jewellery, a range of bracelets carrying messages for mum, grandma, nan and a fabulous friend as well as with Sparkle and Dreams. Kitchenware and ceramics produced with illustrations under the licence from The Macneil Studio are also popular, as well as the

new William Morris Strawberry Thief White, which includes fine chinaware mugs, tea for one, melamine trays, lunch bags, coasters and placemats while also diversifying into fashion accessories such as handbags, a cosmetic bag and a wash bag. Bespoke items have also grown as clients seek their own designs to be produced by us, as expertise avoids expensive mistakes – from concept to finished item, there is assured quality. The giftware retailer developed, and we assisted in presenting ever-changing gift packages for the consumer, meeting the demands for something that was affordable but of the utmost quality with eye-catching point-of-sale material to accompany ranges.

What can we expect in the future from Lesser & Pavey? In spite of the current challenging economic climate, the business continues to thrive, driven by a changing product range and a dedicated, hardworking and multi-talented team. The business continues to advertise extensively and, more increasingly, via all the most popular social media – all very important to help keep the company in the forefront of the trade and the public. Buyers can expect more of the same from Lesser & Pavey in the immediate future: new innovative on-trend gift and homewares ranges offering great quality at incomparable prices. For further information, visit leonardo.co.uk giftfocus 47

Halloween

spooky delight Add a sense of fun for Halloween with these gifts

Sugar Skulls are set to be a huge trend for Halloween 2018, expanding upon their popularity last year. The Personalised Memento Company’s Sugar Skull gifts are a fantastic way to liven up a Halloween party, and the design is available on a range of its bestselling products, including personalised glassware. The popularity of this design doesn’t stop at Halloween, as it’s proved to be a hit all year around too. With more than 6,000 personalised products available on its trade website, covering all occasions, the company has cemented its position as a leading supplier of customisable gifts. T: +44 (0)1782 744 900 W: personalisedmemento.co.uk

More notably for younger party-goers but also for grown-up kids at heart, Spookily Does It from KitchenCraft has lots of fun lines to create the best of Halloween parties. Pumpkin carving kits, skull jelly moulds and spooky cookie cutters ensure that children are well catered for, while more adult-themed items such as skullshaped shot glasses and drinks jars help to really get into the spirit of things. T: +44 (0)1216 041 111 W: kitchencraft.co.uk

Pyramid International has a number of spooktacular licences and ranges for the Halloween season. This includes a great collection of items for Pennywise, the terrifying clown from the creepy IT, AMC’s smash hit The Walking Dead and classics such as Jaws. The company has also been working away on expanding its collection for the muchloved Disney classic The Nightmare Before Christmas. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, The Nightmare Before Christmas is sure to see an increase in its already fantastic popularity. Fan favourite Jack Skellington takes centre stage in an ever-growing range that includes stationery, homeware and wall art, which come together to intrigue and delight. T: +44 (0)1162 843 640 W: pyramidinternational.com

If you want a product that’s different but sells, the chances are that Groovy has it. The Halloween Look-ALite collection includes a skeleton, mummy, psycho surgeon, devil, Dracula, zombie and Frankenstein’s Monster. The Look-ALite mood lights have been designed to bring fun and groovyness into the world of novelty lighting, and the subtle white light from the LED bulb brings these spooky characters to life. This lighting style is taken across most of Groovy’s licenses, including Star Wars, Marvel and DC Comics, with Batman, Superman, Darth Vader and Storm Trooper being strong favourites. They also come in three different sizes for specific characters. The RRP is £20 for the original size; £12 for mini and £5 for keychains. T: +44 (0)844 372 7820 W: groovyuk.com giftfocus 51

hot property

hot property Catch up with all the latest from the world of licensing Licensing: the gift horse you should look in the mouth Retail footfall plummeted in March and April, dropping 3.3 per cent* and 6 per cent*, respectively, the worst performance since the depths of recession in 2009. Much of the nosedive was blamed on the weather: the Beast from the East, a miserable Easter weekend and then a mini heatwave. However, if we’re being honest, the snow, sleet and sun are not entirely to blame. As British Retail Consortium CEO Helen Dickinson said: “[These stats] are just adding to the long-term downward [trend] in footfall, resulting from changing consumer behaviour. That shift in the way we shop, coupled with a highly challenging business environment, is having a significant impact on the nation’s high streets.” In stark comparison, retail sales of licensed goods are growing, reaching £262.9 billion, according to the 2016 LIMA Global Licensing Industry Survey, representing a 4.2 per cent increase on the previous year. Licensed gifts are worth 4 per cent of that market. So why is licensing succeeding where general retail is failing? Put simply, it’s because licensing gives consumers access to products featuring brands they have a connection with – brands they trust, relate or aspire to – and they will pay more for the privilege. The licensee or manufacturer essentially rents the brand to use on products, and that connection can help to increase sales and drive revenue. The licensor or brand owner can use licensing to extend a brand into new categories, areas of a store or into new stores entirely. When it comes to gifting, the use of licensing is exploding, resulting in extraordinarily high-quality and creative products. Just look at the finalists in the recent B&LLAs for proof. The winner was Wild & Wolf’s Orla Kiely stationery range, but Wild & Wolf has already produced some wonderful product for Ted Baker, Polaroid and Stanley Tools. Another

Anna Knight, Brand Director, Brand Licensing Europe

of the finalists, Kimm & Miller, has created a beautiful range of vintage-inspired gifts using Kellogg’s back catalogue. And The Einstein Collection from Professor Puzzle is a range of quirky, well-designed puzzles – perfect stocking fillers. Away from the B&LLAs, Pringles is being seen on a range of novelty gifts, like circular pencil cases, Breton tops and socks that never fail to raise a smile. Licensing Link’s recent deal will soon see the TV smash hit Robot Wars move into gifting. Personalisation is a huge trend, as seen through Signature Gifts, which is working on a range of customised annuals. Celebrity continues to be a massive trend, especially reality stars, YouTubers and influencers. Food and beverage, this year’s theme at Brand Licensing Europe, will continue to eat into gifting thanks to the rise and rise of wellbeing and clean eating. And, of course, anniversaries are always brilliant vehicles for reintroducing a brand to market. The Snowman is soon to be 40, and Elmer the Patchwork Elephant will be celebrating the big 3-0! *Stats via BRC. brandlicensing.eu

Santoro wins The Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade Santoro Licensing is proud to have been awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2018, which is the UK’s most prestigious and highest accolade for international business success. These Awards are made by HM The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister. Santoro Licensing is a division of the London-based design house Santoro Ltd, a privately owned British business founded in 1985. It has demonstrated the necessary level of growth and development on an international scale to meet the strict and demanding criteria required to be considered for these Awards. The Licensing division has seen 20 new licensing partners signed since October 2017 and works with 65 global licensing partners. Santoro Licensing has seen a 40 per cent growth since 2016, and a major factor in this can be attributed to the global phenomenon of Santoro’s Gorjuss brand. Launched in 2009, Gorjuss is available at more than 35,000 points of sale across 93 countries and has already become a £120million brand.

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hot property Celebrated children’s book series Elmer celebrates 30th birthday next year Andersen Press, publisher of Elmer, has announced a programme of exclusive, bespoke books and merchandise and its biggest-ever marketing and PR drive in celebration of Elmer’s 30th birthday in 2019. This includes special anniversary editions of books, clothing and consumer products throughout 2019, a new book by David McKee and Elmer Day on 25th May, 2019, with schools, nurseries, bookshops and libraries hosting their own birthday parties for Elmer. Elmer remains one of the most iconic and widely read children’s book series of all time, selling more than eight million copies worldwide since it was first published by Andersen Press in 1989. Written and illustrated by celebrated children’s author and artist McKee, the Elmer books have been translated into more than 50 languages, and now new books, toys and clothing add to the world of Elmer the Patchwork Elephant. In the UK, combined TCM sales for hero-title Elmer in paperback and board book were up in 2017 in comparison to the previous year. Volume increased by 27 per cent and value by 20 per cent, showing significant growth as it enters the anniversary year.* Penguin Ventures is working on behalf of Andersen Press to ensure

Start Licensing gets into the Spirit of Concorde  Award-winning agency Start Licensing has signed to represent Spirit of Concorde trademarks in the run up to the 50th anniversary of Concorde’s first flight. It will work with award-winning film-makers Chris Purcell and Paul Darter on the short film Ode to Concorde. The film-makers have created a brand design to accompany the film, which is Spirit of Concorde. The Spirit of Concorde trademarks will allow companies to leverage this interest in a commercial way and develop products that have long-term potential. Spirit of Concorde is a registered trademark in a wide range of classes. The trademarks are accompanied by a suite of materials sourced from Ode to Concorde, making a compelling licensing opportunity and focused way to mark the anniversary. Product categories that Spirit of Concorde is registered in include watches, artworks, jewellery, statues, travelling bags, suitcases, clothing, beers, mineral waters, wine, cider and glassware. There is a brand design manual available for licensees, which includes fully developed product concepts featuring the stylish Spirit of Concorde brand device. Ian Downes from Start Licensing commented: “The Spirit of Concorde brand is a commercial opportunity that allows licensees to mark the anniversary of Concorde’s first flight and to create products that will have long-term potential in relevant product sectors. Categories like luggage are obvious ones to link to the legacy of Concorde, whilst categories like beer, cider and wine hold great potential. Companies can develop products that build on the

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that Elmer has high visibility across all categories in licensing as Global Licensing Agent for the brand, and Metrostar is representing apparel and bedding in the UK. Elmer’s licensing programme has gone from strength to strength since the launch of apparel in 2017. In 2018, Metrostar signed Lifemarque for backpacks and harnesses, and further signings will be announced soon. Penguin Ventures is in discussion with several toy and game partners to ensure that there will be an increased offering for Elmer in the run-up to the anniversary year. It is also working with existing licensees to expand their ranges and looking at new opportunities for the brand overall. Products across all lines will be launched later this year and throughout 2019. *TCM values based on Nielsen BookScan data 4th May, 2018. heritage of Concorde and the fact that it was a state-of-the-art form of travel. We believe this is a focused opportunity that is relevant to newer areas of licensing and categories that seem to favour heritage, luxury and up-scale opportunities. We are looking forward to working with Spirit of Concorde.”

Advertorial feature

Nag Champa Satya Incense Namaste has the biggest range, the best stock and the best prices. A total of 80 varieties of Nag Champa are in stock and lowest trade price guaranteed Satya Nag Champa is the world’s bestknown incense and the brand becomes more popular day by day. Founded in 1964 in Mumbai, India, Shrinivas Sugandhalaya recently split into two businesses. Namaste buys from both, in order to give its customers access to the biggest range of incense possible. As well as providing all the ranges available, Namaste is also well known for its excellent stock availability (the company doesn’t like to disappoint so it holds huge stocks!), customer service and fast and efficient next-day delivery. All of Namaste’s Nag Champa incense is hand-rolled and the use of bamboo in the process ensures a minimal ecological footprint. The suppliers provide workers with a fair wage, social overheads and workwear. Additionally, both are committed to being

equal opportunity employers and have predominately female artisans working for them. • Give Namaste a call on +44 (0)1756 700 790 and the friendly sales team can offer advice on best-sellers. • More and more customers are placing orders on Namaste’s website which is easy to use and constantly updated. Inspirational free colour catalogues are also available. Please just ask. The minimum order amount is only £150. Showroom: Skipton, North Yorkshire: Monday - Friday 9am - 5.30pm.

Namaste is a member of BAFTS, the British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers. namaste-uk.com

retailer interview

Passion makes

PERFECT The Hambledon owner, Victoria Suffield, gives us a brief overview of the independent department store’s evolution from a mail-order business to a thriving store selling fashion, accessories and gifts Can you tell me about The Hambledon’s background? I don’t have any kind of background in jewellery specifically. But it has always been something we have sold at The Hambledon. However, we’re not exclusively jewellery – we sell across all sorts of product categories. I don’t really like calling us a concept or lifestyle store. We’re really a mini independent department store just selling things we

genuinely love. We set up the shop in 1999. I had a mailorder business, and we knew that we had customers in and around Winchester, which was the sum total of my market research! I had a contact in the city who knew a good commercial agent that found the site for us. Once we’d seen the building, there was absolutely nowhere else we wanted to be. It’s a beautiful four-storey Georgian building just

off the High Street that overlooks the cathedral. I had worked with my mum in her shop, The Hambledon Gallery in Dorset, and The Hambledon is inspired by and an homage to her. What challenges were overcome when the company was starting out? The challenges were mainly financial! When we first opened, customers thought we were closing down. We hadn’t quite realised how much stock it would take to make the building feel plentiful. I was very lucky to meet a new accountant who encouraged me to spend more money than I thought wise. As a result, we started to make more money. How are you different to similar competitors in the industry? We are sort of a mini department store. We sell all sorts of things across many different categories. We are not accessories specialists, but we are accessories enthusiasts. What is your product offering and how do you go about sourcing your stock? The product offering is very broad. And we source from all over the place. It might be trade shows, but it could equally be leads from customer recommendations, Instagram, giftfocus 57

magazines, websites, spying on other stores. Anywhere, really. What is your customer base? Again, it’s quite broad because we sell so many different things. It’s probably predominantly within a 30-mile radius of Winchester, but our online business is growing, and that obviously means our geographical reach is expanding. When was your website launched, and how does this support your bricks and mortar store? We relaunched the website earlier this year and made fashion transactional for the first time. It is a great window on the world of The Hambledon for customers who like to research before coming into the store, but it is obviously designed with online sales in mind.

How important is the backstory to the company? I don’t really consider it a backstory. Anything we’ve done in the past is just something that informs who we are now. What has been your standout moment since opening the store, and why? I think retail is a funny old game and made up of lots of little moments. I love buying. I love selling. I love visual merchandising. I love the people who work here. Most of all, I think traditional shopkeeping gives you a very privileged position in the local community, and I love the fact we’re part of the furniture of people’s lives.

I don’t think of the accessory market as separate from all the other categories. The demands are the same. Buy the right stuff. Sell at the right price to the right people. Do what you do with conviction and a sense of purpose and fun. Pay your bills and look after your customers, and you should be fine. What are your future plans for the business? We plan to develop the online business but stay true to the roots of the business in oldschool bricks and mortar retailing. There is room to do both well.

How do you view the fashion accessory/ jewellery retail market at present, and what advice would you give other retailers?

The Hambledon +44 (0)1962 890 055 thehambledon.com

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NATURE COLLECTION

www.reevesandreeves.co.uk

Tel: 07793 251980 Email: [email protected]

Visit us at Harrogate Home & Gift Stand G-B9 15 - 18 July where we will be showcasing our new collections for WHITE LEAF and LAST TRUE ANGEL

whiteleafcompany.co.uk/wholesale

This year’s judges spent the first morning of the London Stationery Show reviewing some 400 entries covering 11 product categories, plus a new category for ‘Good Design’ and their own ‘Judges’ Choice’ Judging panel chair, Henri Davis – Independent Retail Consultant and Chair of the Giftware Association – commented, “We’ve really enjoyed seeing such an interesting cross section of new products being entered and from such a variety of new and established suppliers. “The judges commented that seeing the products in a judging environment helped them identify products and suppliers to go and talk to that they wouldn’t normally visit – surely having this opportunity to be seen by these buyers and to be showcased at the front of the show is enough of a reason to enter next year.” The judging panel comprised: Jo Irons of Bureau Direct, Sidonie Warren, founder at Papersmiths, Simon and Amanda Walker of Cult Pens and Lucy Wilson of Waterstones.

CATEGORY WINNERS AND THOSE COMMENDED: Filing Joint Winners: Tied by the Flatty Wallet and Compack (document holder) – both from JPT Europe Commended: Mini Moderns document wallet – from Portico Designs Social Stationery Winner: Green in Bloom Notecards – from Laura Stoddart Ltd Commended: Decoupage Card Kit Freshly Cut Flowers – from West Design Products Ltd Fawn Boxed notecards – from Portico Designs Everyday Writing Winner: Construction Liliput pen by Troika – from Lime Stationery & Art Commended: The Clarity Fountain Pen – from Manuscript Pens The Faber-Castell Grip Fountain Pen 2010 – from Stone Marketing Novelty Winner: Calendar Stickers – from Carpe Diem Commended: Teeny Weeny Tape from Legami – Lime Stationery & Art Cactus Paper Clip by Alice Scott – from Portico Designs Sloth Sticky Notes – from West Design Ltd Vajournal – from Thames & Hudson Gift Packaging & Wrap Winner: Hand tie-dyed gift wrap – from Paper Mirchi Commended:

When Puffins Go Shopping gift wrap book by I like Birds – from Quadrille/Hardie Grant Christmas Wrap – Holly and Mistletoe – from Laura Stoddart Ltd Licensed Winner: Christian Lacroix New York A5 Notebook – from Abrams & Chronicle Commended: Lulu Guinness stickers and labels – from Quadrille/Hardie Grant Diaries, Organisers and Calendars Winner: New Octagon Collection – from Octagon Design (LaunchPad Winner) Commended: Legami Star Diary – from Lime Stationery & Art Palm Springs Desk Pad – from Ohh Deer Birthday Calendar – from Laura Stoddart Ltd It’s a Sloth’s Life organiser – from West Design Products Ltd Writing Instruments (over £25) Winner: LAMY aion – from LAMY Commended: Caran D’Ache 849 Nespresso Ballpoint Pen – from Stone Marketing Ltd Construction Spectrum – from Lime Stationery & Art Notebooks Winner: Troika Lilipad and Liliput – from Lime Stationery & Art Commended: Back Pocket Notebooks – from Back Pocket Notebooks The Celestial Bullet Journal – from Peter Pauper Press Casanova-Fenice- Vivaldi – Gruppo Padovana srl

Desk Accessories Winner: The Never-Ending Notebook – from Abrams & Chronicle Commended: Max 10-NL compact stapler – from Lime Stationery & Art Original Crown Mill Keyboard Notepad – from Lime Stationery & Art Arts & Crafts Winner: Colour Happy Big Box – from edding UK Ltd Commended: Tombow Beginners Hand Lettering Set – from Stone Marketing Faber-Castell Starter Hand Lettering Set – from West Design Artline Supreme Brush Marker – from Shachihata Europe Ltd Deluxe Modern Calligraphy Set – from Manuscript Pen Good Design Winner: Back Pocket Notebooks – from Back Pocket Judges’ Choice Joint Winners: The Lilipad & Liliput – from Lime Stationery & Art The Octagon Collection – from Octagon Design General comments about the Judge’s Choice Awards: Lilipad is a great pen and multi-tool. The perfect size, perforated and great paper… Octagon Design – the new collection offers undated planners to use as you wish. They lay flat, which is an absolute must for a planner. Punchy orange brightens up your day, or shop window!

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london stationery show

Stationery Awards 2018 – winners announced!

Farm Shop and Deli Show 2018 – winners announced!

The coveted accolades celebrate the best specialist independent retailers in the UK, with judges looking for the most impressive levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement JUDGING PROCESS The winners were chosen by a group of esteemed speciality retail, fine food and food media experts, who came together to whittle down the high-calibre, high-volume entries. BBC Radio 2 presenter and food aficionado Nigel Barden again stepped in as chair of judges, joined by co-chair Elaine Lemm; Ashleigh-Kate O’Mahony, food trends reporter, The Grocer; and John Gill, head of commercial operations and buyer at Booths. Paper judging produced a shortlist of the best, some of which then

CATEGORY WINNERS AND THOSE COMMENDED: BAKER OF THE YEAR Winner: Filbert’s Bakery (Lancaster) Commended: Bondgate Bakery (Otley) / Hambleton Bakery (Oakham) / Hobbs House Bakery (Tetbury) / Jervaulx Abbey Tearooms (Ripon) BUTCHER OF THE YEAR AND NORTH WEST WINNER Winner: Edge & Son (Birkenhead) Commended: Cunninghams Butchers and Food Hall (Kilkeel) / Low Howgill Butchers & Deli (Appleby-in-Westmorland) CHEESEMONGER OF THE YEAR Winner: The Courtyard Dairy (Austwick) Commended: Love Cheese (York) / Paxton & Whitfield (Chelsea Green, London) DELICATESSEN OF THE YEAR AND SOUTH EAST WINNER Winner: The Goring Grocer (Reading) Commended: Chandos Deli (Bristol) / No2 Pound Street (Wendover) / The Hungry Guest (Petworth) / The Norfolk Deli (Hunstanton) / Thornham Deli (Hunstanton)   FARMSHOP – LARGE RETAILER OF THE YEAR AND MIDLANDS WINNER Winner: Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Café (Nr Uttoxeter) Commended: Becketts Farm (Wythall) / Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop (Bakewell) / 62 giftfocus

underwent mystery guest testing, as the judges took to the road to observe what was on offer at venues across the country. Looking for staff knowledge, enthusiasm, service, a second-to-none product offer, professionalism and an integrated stalwart of their respective communities, they were left with the tough job of picking the winners for these increasingly prestigious awards for 2018. After weeks of onthe-ground judging, the victorious entrants were chosen for both the category awards and the best in each of nine UK regions.

Farmer Copleys Ltd (Pontefract) / Mainsgill Farmshop (Richmond) / The Udder Farm Shop (East Stour) FARMSHOP – SMALL RETAILER OF THE YEAR Winner: Welbeck Farm Shop (Worksop) Commended: Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm Shop (Stirling) / Cedarbarn Farm Shop (Pickering) / Etherington’s Farm Shop (Redruth) / Fordhall Organic Farm (Market Drayton) / Rhug Farm Shop (Corwen) / The Gog Farm Shop (Cambridge) / The Lambing Shed Farm Shop and Café (Knutsford) / Three Trees Farm Shop & Cafe (Swindon) / Waterloo Cottage Farm (Great Oxendon)   FISHMONGER OF THE YEAR Winner: Fyne Fish Ltd (Cockermouth) Commended: Dabs ‘n’ Crabs (Great Yarmouth) / Latimers Seafood Ltd (Sunderland) / The Fresh Fish Shop Ltd (Haywards Heath) FOODHALL OF THE YEAR Winner: Webbs (Droitwich Spa) Commended: Delifonseca Dockside (Liverpool) / Fodder (Harrogate) / Great Cornish Food Store (Truro)/ Ludlow Food Centre (Ludlow) GREENGROCER OF THE YEAR Winner: Rafters (Driffield) Commended: Oakchurch Farm Shop (Hereford)

 MARKET OF THE YEAR Winner: West Malling Farmers Market (West Malling) Commended: Lenham Country Market (Lenham)    NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR Winner: The Goring Grocer (Reading) Commended: Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm Shop (Stirling) / Great Cornish Food Store (Truro)/ Love Cheese (York) / Low Howgill Butchers & Deli (Appleby-inWestmorland) / The Lambing Shed Farm Shop and Café (Knutsford)    ONLINE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AND NORTH EAST WINNER Winner: Farmison & Co (Ripon) Commended: Eat Great Meat Limited (Wortley) / Farmer’s Choice Free Range (Fareham)   VILLAGE STORE / LOCAL SHOP OF THE YEAR Winner: FINK (York) Commended: R Campbell & Son Limited (Leyburn)/ Shropshire’s Own (Shrewsbury)

The Farm Shop & Deli Awards will be back in 2019, with entries already open. Further information and how to register interest in entering can be found at: farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/awards

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FOR THE 2018 BROCHURE AND PRICE LIST Online: ABitQuackers.com/brochure (P/W nothingventured) T: John on 02380 769455 e: [email protected]

home & gift preview

design details

Harrogate’s Home & Gift promises to be a hive of inspiration for the buying seasons ahead

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new directions A host of new features look set to make the 2018 edition of Harrogate’s Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival the most successful event to date

Home & Gift 2018 will present the largest number of show sectors in its history, creating the biggest buying opportunity and giving you more choice than ever before. There are a number of new features for the 2018 show, which include: Design Now – A beautiful selection of designled products that showcase leading UK brands alongside innovative new names to create a compelling new offer. Expect to find distinctive pieces that will set your store apart from your competitors. Taste – An exciting new edit of fun and tasty giftable food and drink products showcasing emerging and well-known food and drink brands. It will be an ideal hunting ground for discerning retailers looking for unique new products. MADE will showcase leading UK design in handmade products. It’s the perfect opportunity to find unique pieces directly

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from artists, makers and craftspeople. Design-Led Fashion and Jewellery – A new hall of design-led fashion and jewellery that will increase the offering to more than Home & Gift has ever had before. Exciting fashion brands this year include Shyla Jewellery, Icon Watches, Hasso Fashion, Miss Milly, Nova Leather and the Breton Shirt Company, to name a few. Design Point Home and Interiors – By popular demand, Home & Gift has doubled the size of Home and Interior accessories, with some amazing brands being welcomed back again for 2018, including Libra and Pacific Lifestyle. Jam-packed with exciting new brands, product launches and next season’s best sellers, you’re guaranteed to find the best in design-led gifts, traditional gifts, home and interior accessories, jewellery and fashion, greeting and stationery plus the next new

IN BRIEF Show: Venue: Dates: Website: Twitter:

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival Harrogate Convention Centre 15th – 18th July, 2018 homeandgift.co.uk @Home_And_Gift

wave of design-led brands, talented makers and food and drink gifts. Home & Gift 2018 really does have it all! Set across five marquees and eight halls, Home & Gift is the largest showroom in the North. If you are looking for a bigger choice of products and new brands, Home & Gift 2018 won’t disappoint. With an amazing show lined up for 2018, visitors are advised to book accommodation early to take advantage of the best rates available in and around the beautiful town of Harrogate. Travel and accommodation can be arranged through official Home & Gift travel partner Reservation Highway on +44 (0)1423 525 577. For more information on Home & Gift, the retailer’s favourite buying festival, please visit homeandgift.co.uk g

New Giftware From

Clere Concepts & Vision Home & Gift - Hall B, Stand B25 Visit our website to see all products www.clereconceptsandvision.co.uk

T: 01635 297911 F: 01635 299237 E: [email protected] www.clereconceptsandvision.co.uk

home & gift preview

exhibitor profiles

WINTER IN VENICE Stand: A19B winterinvenice.co.uk This award-winning British brand has been creating the perfect pamper hampers for 12 years and presents luxurious toiletries filled in beautiful reusable containers for a long-lasting gift. Winter in Venice understands the power of scents and how a scent can trigger beautiful memories and help us reminisce about moments from our childhood that made us feel loved and nurtured. The company goes to great lengths to capture all your favourite scents from your childhood in its range of luxurious toiletries and gifts. Each set is expertly designed,

hand-finished and made to create a lasting memory of the person who gave you the gift, and the clever reusable packaging ensures that nothing gets thrown away. Beautiful reusable items such as jewellery boxes, bath caddies, wooden cabinets, hat boxes and more find their way home to you in the form of lovingly hand-finished gift sets packed with an array of luxurious bath and body products. The rich formulations are concocted with Natural Fruit and Plant Extracts, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Mango Butter, Almond Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Pro-Vitamin B5 and Evening Primrose oil. The company’s moisturelock formula leaves skin nourished and feeling soft and silky. The new formulations are free from parabens, paraffins, SLS, SLES, DEA and mineral oils, and products aren’t tested on animals.

BEST KEPT SECRETS Stand: Q1 bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Best Kept Secrets is excited to announce the rebranding of its award-winning Seriously Scented Candles and to introduce seven brand-new fragrances for theautumn season. Vanessa Curry, managing director at Best Kept Secrets, said: “In conjunction with Edinburgh-based designer Elise Rayment and using feedback from Focus Groups across the country, we have revamped our top-selling range. This exciting format incorporates new candles: Pink Pomegranate, Horizon Sky, Caspian Silk, Indian Summer, Plum Champagne, Peony Blush and also Lotus Blossom. The new range of 40 fragrances includes many established favourites: Classic Cotton, Watermelon and Coastal Breeze, to mention just three. This guarantees successful and profitable sales for retailers as the peak selling season approaches.” Best Kept Secrets will showcase the full range for the first time at Harrogate Home & Gift. Come to see and sniff for yourself.

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exhibitor profiles

TALBOT FASHIONS Stand: C8 talbotfashions.com At Harrogate, Talbot will be presenting enting the Tide Jewellery collection in its eye-catching branded anded box. With nearly 600 styles to choose from, designs include nclude unicorns, birds, Celtic motifs, flowers, wildlife, sea life and zoo animals. Talbot Fashions launched thiss highly successful, branded range of wholesale natural Paua Shell jewellery in 2016. The collection has provided outstanding ding sales for all their retailers and outlets. The company supplies many heritage sites, museums, tourist centres, retail outlets, zoos, garden en centres and gift shops, where this range is flying off the shelves. s. Rhodium-plated and inlaid with th natural paua shell, each piece is different because of the shell’s natural and It iis also t l patterns tt d colours. l l fully tested for nickel, cadmium and lead compliancy. You can visit the website to view the full range of pendants, earrings, bracelets, bangles, brooches, cuff links, pill boxes and compact mirrors.

GOODLOOKERS Stand D118 goodlookers.co.uk

ALLJOY DESIGN Stand: GS-46 alljoydesign.com The Message in a Bottle Christmas range is beautifully engineered with handcrafted perfection. These dimensional cards are handmade with a patent-pending process. The cards offer a simple diverse message for a variety of occasions and are left blank inside for your own message. Alljoy’s latest designs play with a sixlayered, laser and die-cut paper technique.

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Goodlookers’ reading glasses are for people who want to look good, and the colourful, up-to-the-minute designs help them to do just that. At Home & Gift Harrogate, Goodlookers will be unveiling its fabulous Autumn/Winter 2018 reading glasses collection, which features an array of up-to-date new looks – from vintage chic to sassy snakeskin! New readers include West, a design perfect for the men, which sports a stylish marble-esque finish. Other range highlights include Nico readers in an ultra-trendy mottled metallic finish and the bold and fun Joy readers, which incorporate a stylish double-eclipse metal stud accent. The brand has updated its floor and countertop spinners, which are now available in a sleek white for a modern and clean look in store. Goodlookers continues to offer value for money and high margins for customers with quick lead times and trusted quality. Made with high-quality materials, Goodlookers reading glasses not only look great but are also durable and incredibly pleasing to the touch.

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MISS MILLY Stand: tand: DP3-8 missmilly.co.uk Miss Milly, the British brand for gorgeous jewellery and scarves, is introducing a stunning palette that includes Persian Red, Blueprint and Pantone’s colour of the year, Ultra Violet. The best-selling Floria Collection jewellery has evolved with revamps of popular lines alongside gorgeous new resin and enamel pieces. Look out for eye-catching colour combinations in this range with a growing, loyal fanbase. The Carmen Collection has bold new lines with striking, statement metal necklaces in gunmetal, matte silver and matte rose gold featuring crystal highlights. The Scarf Collection features seasonal tones alongside the launch of a poncho at a great price point and in three striking colours to co-ordinate with our jewellery. Miss Milly offers reasonable prices and great quality with no minimum order quantities, so buy exactly what you need. Branded packaging and display stands are also available. Register on the easy-to-use website for trade pricing or give the company a call.

MOLLY MAE Stand: DP1 – D80 mollymae.co.uk It’s been 10 years since Molly Mae first exhibited at Home & Gift in Harrogate, and this year the company celebrates by launching its newest range of cards and gift wrap. Inspired by the plants in homes, gardens and open spaces, the fantastic Botanical Garden range is new for Spring/Summer 2018. Molly Mae is excited to launch 18 new designs, each one thoughtfully designed, foiled and embossed to create a striking collection of cards for birthdays, moving home and lots more. Alongside the cards, the company has six new gift wrap

MIDHAVEN LTD Stand: C22 midhaven.co.uk Midhaven will be showing its new collection of Opalique with Cubic Zirconia. These are beautifully crafted in sterling silver and available in subtle white hues or vibrant blue. Most earrings have matching pendants, and each piece is rhodiumplated for an anti-tarnish finish. The ever-popular Tribal steel brand of leather bracelets will be showing a new kids range alongside the existing men’s and women’s bracelets. This is a great value range with RRPs from £9.50 to £40. Prices are competitive, and expect great quality and excellent service. Tribal bracelets are supplied with a branded hessian pouch. Point of sale is also available.

designs, also following the plant-inspired theme, printed on luxury uncoated paper, and four fabulous A3 prints printed on luxury board.  Also new at the show and following on from the successful launch of the luxurious And All That Jazz range at Top Drawer, Molly Mae has added several new wedding anniversary titles to the collection. The beautiful calligraphy-style font and hand-finished pearlescent detailing add to the deluxe feel of the cards. Continued success of the Light Fantastic range has meant that the collection will be extended by a further five female birthday cards and five male birthday cards, all with fresh, exciting designs. Come to see the new cards, wrap and prints for yourselves at the stand at Harrogate. 

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exhibitor profiles

XYSTOS Stand: Hall Q, Stand C17-18 & 20 xystostrade.co.uk Xystos will unveil nine new bath and body collections from Baylis & Harding and three new ranges from Splosh – its new Australian partner – as it strengthens its lifestyle gifting portfolio at Home & Gift. Renowned for its flame and fragrance offering from leading brands such as Village Candle and personal care specialist Di Palomo, Xystos will also be introducing a new candle range under its own Cello brand, which earlier this year saw the launch of Birch Bark handcrafted candles. Spearheading the Baylis & Harding Autumn/Winter introductions is The Sweet Mandarin & Grapefruit Collection, which sees the return of its best-selling fragrance, with the stylish geometric print cleverly incorporating presents of all shapes and sizes and setting the tone for the gifting season. Baylis & Harding has personal care covered from head to toe and includes products that range from a bar of soap to a luxury wicker hamper that includes bath and shower crème, body cleanser, bath soak crystals and a wash mitt. Its Boudoire Secret Garden Collection is simply stunning, featuring a striking floral design set against a dark background and accented with rose gold foil – all complementing the Midnight Rose Petals fragrance. The Jojoba, Silk & Almond Oil Collection is a gorgeous fragrance fusion that enhances the blush pink and rose gold packaging – a truly luxurious range. The Naturals Collection has a delicate Oatmeal, Milk and Honey fragrance that will sooth the senses and leave the skin feeling soft and nourished. Delicately fragranced with Pink Magnolia and Pear Blossom, The Royale Garden Collection from Baylis & Harding is a bold new floral design that incorporates pinks and gold set against a muted grey background, while La Maison is inspired by the coolness of a winter in Provence. It brings together chic, neutral tones with luxurious styling to create a stunning range of gifts delicately fragranced with Fig & Cassis for the ultimate indulgence. The Skin Spa Winter Wonderland Collection blends calming rosemary and eucalyptus with the refreshing fragrance of white tea to create an indulgent spa experience within the home. Baylis & Harding’s Fuzzy Duck Cotswolds Floral Collection – 76 giftfocus

inspired by the company’s surroundings – has fragrances of Woodland Bluebell and Wild Flower Meadow, which beautifully enrich the exquisite design, while the local countryside was also the inspiration for The Fuzzy Duck Winter Wonderland Collection, which has a Frosted Christmas Tree and Mulberry & Mistletoe fragrances. Splosh Fairy Houses have flown out since Spring Fair, and Xystos will be hoping for great things from the three ranges launching in Harrogate. The Art of Cats has images of furry friends on mugs, cushions, journals and notebooks, tote bags and sticky notes, while the Precious Pets range has pictures of different breeds of dogs on mugs, as well as photo frames carrying tributes to them and hanging door signs of various breeds. Celebration Glasses from Splosh are a fun way to mark any occasion, such as the stemless wine glass, which comes with a fabric gold-glitter wearable crown or hat that clips to the hair. The glass design, for any kind celebration, has a gold foil confetti print with a wish that reads 'Congrats to you'. Xystos director Tom Sykes says: “We are a one-stop shop for busy retailers. We offer high-quality candles and bath and body products, as well as a strong range of lifestyle gifts that sell through because they meet the needs of today’s consumer.”

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SEA GEMS LTD Stand: C15 seagems.co.uk

PINTAIL CANDLES Stand: A10 pintailcandles.com Join Pintail Candles for a silver jubilee jamboree on its stand, which will be bursting with fabulous fragrances, captivating candles, magical melts and divine diffusers. The company is celebrating 25 years as one of the best-loved candle makers with a fizzing party of best-selling candles, the launch of creative new ranges and a birthday surprise of extra-special show offers. On the guest list are the 40 fragrances and colours of the iconic Filled Tin candles in their classic paint pot design. Crowdpleasers such as Linen & White Pepper and Fig & Wild Pear will be hobnobbing with seasonal favourites of Frankincense & Myrrh, Cinnamon & Orange and Christmas Spice. Making a dramatic entrance, the signature 3-Wick Large Tin candle range is established as a gift-giving favourite at Christmas.  Launched earlier this year, the gold, bold and sparkly Occasions range has been a winner, and Gin O’ Clock and Prosecco Princess are sure to take centre stage again. Which leads on to the leading cocktail tin candle range, the fantastic Happy Hour collection with a cheeky Snowball and a naughty Cosmo sure to keep the party in full swing. The Tis the Season range makes a welcome return with great seasonal fragrances and cheery yuletide styling, including twinkling stars, an adorable Rudolph and the world’s happiest Santa. Come along to join James and Fiona in celebrating their silver anniversary. They look forward to welcoming you to the party.

A family-run business established in 1962, Sea Gems has grown into an innovative company creating beautiful and versatile brands. Creativity and craftsmanship combine to produce high-quality collections at affordable prices. Enhanced by attractive packaging and POS, and backed up by fantastic online ordering and friendly, knowledgeable customer service. Sea Gems is launching hundreds of new, exciting additions to its popular jewellery and gift ranges for summer 2018. The products are exclusively designed in Cornwall and reflect the county’s spectacular landscape and heritage, encapsulating a unique lifestyle both past and present. Nature’s dazzling array of floral and natural shapes are captured in the contemporary silver jewellery brand, Pure Origins. Myriad beautiful designs, each hand-crafted and finished with textures, gold vermeil or semi-precious stones, enhance the beauty, spirit and story of each piece. The boutique collections draw on the creativity of Mother Nature and celebrate love and life, inspiring strong organic statement pieces, delicate wildlife designs and the intricate Beachcomber range. New long necklaces make bold statements when worn alone or teamed together for a playful layered look. The Celtic Lands silver jewellery collection evokes the rich and stunning Celtic heritage. Timeless designs capture the powerful motifs and beautifully elaborate knotwork of this ancient culture. The original art of fine enamelling, with its fusion of vibrant and translucent colours, creates stunning jewellery and gifts in the Mackintosh, Celtic and Nature series ranges. Every piece is individually hand-crafted to bring to life the purity of the design. Inspired gift ranges include pens, compact mirrors, pillboxes, bookmarks and scarf rings.

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exhibitor profiles

CORINNE LAPIERRE Stand: G-D10 corinnelapierre.com Over the past few years, Corinne Lapierre has become well known for the quality and quirkiness of her felt craft kits, her craft books, published by Search Press, and regular appearances on Create and Craft TV. This year, the company will be launching a whole new range of embroidery Hoop kits at the Home & Gift show. Retailing at £12.50, the kits make perfect gifts for beginners as well as more experienced crafters, featuring designs that are fresh and modern and instructions that are easy to follow. Wholesale orders can be placed at the show or by email, and sample packs are given to retailers to display with the stock.

H2K OF HARROGATE Stand: DP1-B62 h2kskincare.com H2k of Harrogate has been creating exceptional skincare products since 2000, when managing director Hazel Barry founded H2k of Harrogate by introducing Kalahari melon seed oil into skincare. Infusing organic extracts with enhanced formulations, the range promotes vitality inside and out, making you feel H2k happy. The company puts the environment at the heart of what it does, which is why it strives to create luxury products that are safe for you, safe for wildlife and are ethically sound.

KITCHENCRAFT Stand: DP2-44, DP2-47 kitchencraft.co.uk Home & Gift presents the perfect opportunity for KitchenCraft to showcase some spectacular new launches for AW18 – ideal for providing distinctive gift solutions as well as inspiration for parties and entertaining for all ages. The award-winning Artesà brand will feature some fabulous lines that will focus heavily on trends such as brass-coloured frames, handles and edging across a wonderful collection of serveware. These latest additions add an element of luxe while still maintaining the established key element of the collection, which is focused on the mix-and-match of materials and textures. Crisp, stylish packaging features throughout, which is perfect for gifting as well as providing a fresh in-store look ready for the key AW18 season. Couple Artesà with sumptuous on-trend lines from BarCraft, and you have the makings of the most memorable of social gatherings. More notably for younger partygoers but also for grown-up kids at heart, Spookily Does It has lots of fun lines to create the best of Halloween parties. Pumpkin-carving kits, skull jelly moulds and spooky cookie cutters ensure the kids are well catered for, whilst more adultthemed items such as skull-shaped shot glasses and drinks jars help to get into the spirit of things.

exhibitor profiles

KATE GUEST Stand: GS-10 kateguest.com

CLERE CONCEPTS Stand: B25 clereconceptsandvision.co.uk A brightly coloured, fun, low-cost gift is always a good seller, particularly in the run up to Christmas. Luckily, Clere Concepts has lots of products that fit the bill: the ever-popular Double Pen Sets (new cat and dog designs this season); extending backscratchers, dusters, shoehorns and golf-themed massagers; pill boxes – travel and handbag; keyring pens (functional in themed or everyday designs); and slim-line pens. The list goes on. Many of the new ranges are packed in ready-to-display CDUs, but as always, Clere Concepts has many ranges from which customers can pick and choose exactly the colours and quantities they want.

At Home & Gift 2018, Kate Guest will be releasing new designs across all the main collections. February’s best-selling Rose Gold release will be followed up with more additions to complete the birthday ages from 18-100. There will be new releases in the Pastel Sparkle Collection and new children’s birthday ages (one-five) in the Typewriter Collection, among other designs. All of which make this an exciting show for Kate Guest, with plenty of new product on display. The company will also be launching its Christmas 2018 Bauble collection, which is made up of six designs that combine classic Christmas lyrics and sentiments with rich wintery tones. Additionally, both the Typewriter and Rose Gold collections have recently been translated and released in Welsh.

KMI BRANDS Stand: DP2-7 kmibrands.com KMI Brands will be at this year’s Harrogate Home & Gift Festival showcasing a collection of fragrance gifts, home fragrances and travel washbags across the Ted Baker, Orla Kiely and Mini Moderns brands. Ted Baker’s Residence home fragrance collection is inspired by an on-trend colour palette of burgundy, grey and pink, available in three fragrances: Bergamot & Cassis, Pink Pepper & Cedarwood and Fig & Olive Blossom. Harrogate will also provide the perfect opportunity to present the new Ted Baker Christmas fragrance gifting for men and women, featuring the popular Sweet Treats and Tonics collections. From small cosmetics bags to large hanging washbags, Orla Kiely’s popular washbag collection is available in three iconic prints and colourways. Her candles and diffusers use only the finest natural essential oils and include four key fragrances: Fig Tree, Geranium, Earl Grey and Lavender. KMI has partnered with British Interiors brand Mini Moderns since 2016 and will be showcasing the home fragrance and washbag collection in four key prints: Whitby, Darjeeling, Pavilion and Paisley Crescent.

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LADYCROW SILKS Stand: DP1-D103 ladycrowsilks.co.uk Ladycrow Silks is a company with a passion for creating fabulous scarves and pewter jewellery in the heart of Scotland. All handdyed silk scarves are made in-house and are available in a superb range of bold and subtle colourways. Lustrous and opalescent Liberty Belgravia Satin fabric is used to make gorgeous scarves, necklaces, pendants and magnetic brooches in a selection of beautiful prints. Opulent hand-dyed velvet scarves and wraps are available in a palette of shimmering colours that are both practical and beautiful to wear. The Ladycrow pewter jewellery collection features scarf rings, brooches necklaces and earrings in a selection of both contemporary and traditional designs. Each piece is hand-made by artisans in the UK and hand-finished by Ladycrow in Scotland.

exhibitor profiles

CREATIVE TOPS Stand: DP2-44, DP2-47 creative-tops.com Creative Tops will be launching its new range of Maxwell & Williams homewares after recently acquiring the distribution rights to this iconic brand. New products being exhibited on the stand will include the stunning new Caviar Speckle collection. Complementing existing matte black Caviar products, new Speckle pieces feature a charcoalspeckled glaze atop textural cream plates, serving platters and bowls. Also being showcased will be Marini Ferlazzo tableware, where the natural world comes to life. Each collectible piece features a recreation of wildlife portraits by Nathan Ferlazzo, hand-drawn with a traditional nib and Indian ink.

Creative Tops will also be exhibiting a new collection from Mikasa, named after the Azores. In this striking collection, abstract markings of rich blue are warmed by exotic gold, while a hammered texture, crafted with rambling edging, adds a handmade feel to plates, bowls and mugs. Meaning “the warmth of the winter sun,” Katie Alice will introduce the new Wild Apricity collection. A romantic floral design sees rambling blooms and rusted foliage unfurl on a luxuriously dark canvas, framing a dusky blue wildlife scene of a lakeside hunting bird. A collection to add fun and absurd poetry to the mug cupboard, the new Nonsense Alphabet from V&A styles rhymes, sketches and a medley of colour, with a bit of nonsense thrown in! Stanzas from Edward Lear’s Nonsense Alphabet are patterned across mugs, featuring his matching illustrations for the letters and a colourful handle.

TILNAR ART Stand: D58 tilnarart.co.uk Tilnar Art is delighted to be the new home for Azeti Interiors, which was an outstanding success at Spring Fair and is fast becoming the biggest-selling collection. The company has been ahead of the curve, as all its ranges are handmade, Fairtrade and recycled, which makes it a fabulous alternative to plastic, especially as the consumer

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begins to move away from plastic items. Another exciting development is that Tilnar has been working with great wildlife artist Meg Hawkins to develop a wildlife and Christmas range of the recycled aluminium bowls. Tilnar has put Meg’s stunning artwork on to the bowls and coasters to produce a new range that features robins, stags, pheasants, sheep, thistles, highland cows and many more during the coming year. Each product also comes in a superb presentation box, making a perfect gift.

home & gift preview

RIEKING VIOLET SHRIEKING Stand: d: D79 flowerjewellery.com erjewellery.com

OPTICAID Shrieking eking Violet has some exciting new designs to launch at Home & Gift. These include a Dachshund necklace with forget-me-nots, the Sunflower Collection and greetings cards with a necklace. Shrieking Violet is also offering its sterling silver jewellery range with gold plating. The company started its journey in 1990s, trading at London’s Camden Market with its unique range of handmade sterling silver jewellery with real flowers. It slowly shifted focus to supplying the trade and now has over 400 active trade accounts, including jewellery and gift shops, museums, botanical gardens and department stores in the UK and beyond. Popular collections include rose, forget-me-not, poppy, daisy, purple haze, heather and mixed flowers. Styles include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, chokers, brooches and cufflinks. Shrieking Violet jewellery retails between £19.99 and £54.99.

Stand: B30 opticaid.net Opticaid UK is launching its new AW18-ready reading glasses at Harrogate Home & Gift. Among the many new styles are the ladies’ styles Portofino Purple, Ashford Teal and Lymington Pink Stripe. All frames have deeper fashionable lenses and represent key colours of the season. Also trending is animal print, and Opticaid has three new animal prints with Veneto, which is a cat’s eye-shaped frame, Waterloo Red and Boracay Dusk in shades of blue. Also on display will be new patterns from its best-selling Aluminium wallet range. These hold up to 12 credit and debit cards and protects them from demagnetisation and RFID scanners, which fraudsters use to steal personal details. RRP £6.99. The team will also showcase stylish new night-sight overglasses, which are designed to be worn over prescription eyewear. These help remove headlight and streetlamp glare when driving in the darker winter months and are sure to be a bestseller. RRP £14.99.

MARY ANN ROGERS GALLERY Stand: DP4-D46 marogers.com Everything is hotting up at Mary Ann Rogers Gallery as the company prepares for Home & Gift. Five new limited-edition prints in a choice of beautiful contemporary frames will be launched, to add to the existing range of prints, covering wildlife, landscapes and domestic poultry, all painted by award-winning wildlife artist, Mary Ann Rogers, from her remote Northumberland studio/gallery. Along with her prints, Mary Ann’s work has translated seamlessly onto wonderful homewares, scarves, gifts and stationery. Leaping foxes, voluptuous tulips, racing hares and proud cockerels all bursting with life and movement. New calendars, diaries and planners for 2019 that will bring order into hectic lives, as well as new bone china tableware including elegant teapots, jugs and mugs, all adorned with fabulous artwork will be on display.

CARDMORE Stand: DP5, GS-58 cardmore.co.uk Cardmore & Pictura’s new Botanical range of greeting cards features 19 beautifully developed designs with lined envelopes to match. All cards are finished with glitter and foil, are embossed and wrapped and are sold in units of six per design. Also available is the popular Jane & Two Twenty Two range of greeting cards and gifts and the ever-popular Sienna’s Garden greeting card and gift range. Come to see the ranges at Harrogate Home & Gift stand. For a catalogue, please contact [email protected].

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exhibitor profiles

GLOBAL LUXURY BRANDS Stand: A16 globalluxurybrands.co.uk Global Luxury Brands is delighted to be partnering with designer David Redman and the Cavallo Moda brand. David has designed and sourced a superb range of pashminas all in plain colours and all in the softest fabric while keeping them practical and accessible. An introductory pack with display stand will be available at the show. For more information, call +44 (0)1538 807 780.

NANA'S MANNERS Stand: Hall G, E27 nanasmanners.com Having launched only last summer, Nana’s Manners’ children’s cutlery is already a firm favourite amongst parents, grandparents, childcare professionals and, most importantly, children themselves. The award-winning cutlery most recently gained a record haul of four Platinum and Gold accolades in the Loved by Children Awards. Through simple yet effective design, Nana’s Manners’ patented

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knife and fork have been developed to empower children to learn to eat confidently and independently. The unique shape supports little fingers in forming the tri-grip position, and fun finger stickers guide children’s hands – no adult intervention needed! The cutlery, which featured on Dragons’ Den in October 2017, is only comfortable when held correctly, as demonstrated on TV by dragon Peter Jones. The knife and fork are presented in a beautiful box, and consumer and buyer feedback has already placed them as a favourite in the gifting market. They are the perfect present for a friend or relative who wants to gift something meaningful and purposeful that will be used every day.

exhibitor profiles

IBEANI Stand: DPD-C43 ibeani.co.uk With our busy lifestyles, we all love the luxury of taking time to relax with our tablets, and with iBeani, complete comfort comes as standard. iBeani is an ultra-lightweight, award-winning, Britishmade universal tablet bean bag stand, suitable to hold any tablet device, eReader or book at any viewing angle on virtually any surface. Trusted by organisations such as the National Gallery, Cancer Research UK and Help for Heroes, and with new, on-trend designs to suit all, iBeani is fast becoming the must-have lifestyle accessory for every home and a great gift idea too. Having premium packaging, iBeani now sits confidently on the shelf among other gifting products, home accessories, lifestyle or tech, moving the brand from strength to strength. Independent retailers, garden centres and larger retailers are seeing an everincreasing amount of interest and sales.  With low minimum orders, a great wholesale price and free delivery, there has never been a better time to add iBeani to your stock list.

Come and see the UK’s favourite glassware supplier. Exciting NEW launches.

Home and Gift, Harrogate Hall Q Stand D23

FRITH SCULPTURE Stand A9 frithsculpture.co.uk Proud to be still producing its products by hand on Exmoor, the Frith team has spent the past few months working on some exciting designs for autumn and Christmas. After the recent successes with its lovable hedgehogs and cute Cockapoos and Labradoodles, the company will be adding to those categories as well as introducing some new ideas. A magnificent elephant has been sculpted by wildlife expert Harriet Dunn – it’s majestic and will provide an excellent display model. However, the innovative miniatures have sold extremely well over the past 12 months, so a number of new designs and subjects are being added. The range will now include cattle, pigs, donkeys and sheep. Artist Thomas Meadows has turned his skills to cats recently, and new designs will be included. Cats were one of the first sculptures Frith introduced back in 1993 and some are as popular now as they were then, and some models have been supplied all over the world. Visit the stand to take advantage of the special show offers. If not, a stylish catalogue is available.

www.dandjglassware.co.uk Tel: 01953 450280

home & gift preview

HUMBLEWOOD Stand: G-E3 humblewood.uk Handmade from sustainable hardwoods with a dash of eco-friendly colour, Humblewood’s products ooze with contemporary, retroinspired personality. As well as the best-selling Fridge Magnet Vases, quirky Wonky Clocks and popular All-In-A-Row vases, the range includes vases, clocks, desk tidies, smartphone and tablet stands and keyrings. All items are designed and made by the company in its workshop in Cumbria.

Humblewood’s signature product is the All-In-A-Row vase. Other popular products include the stylish It’s-A-Quarter-Too wall clock, Inthe-round Table Centre and Leaning Posy vase designs. The first foray into furniture was the colourful Bertie 3-legged Stool, a fun-size seat that is proving popular with customers. Bertie’s big brother, the more adult-sized Bennie, is being launched at Harrogate Home & Gift. If you fall for Humblewood’s charms, retailer support includes low minimums, online ordering, point-of-sale materials and professional product images.

MOLLY&IZZIE Stand: G-B17 mollyandizziewholesale.co.uk Molly & Izzie is thrilled to be bringing its design-led jewellery to the Harrogate Home & Gift Show for the first time. The company’s jewellery gift products offer a sense of cohesion across a varied range of low price points and has a minimum order of just £50.  All of its products are produced in its Cumbrian Studio using high-quality materials, which are sourced locally where possible.  Product ranges include luxury wish bracelets beautifully packaged with crisp white envelopes, a luxury range of boxed charm bangles, stretchy fabric charm bracelets presented on backing cards ready to gift and delicate beaded bracelets.  All products come packaged ready for display, and a choice of high-quality, branded display solutions are also available. Molly & Izzie will be launching a new range of Wish Bracelets, created especially for gift shops, tourist attractions and visitor centres along with a bespoke-wording Wish Bracelet service. For the duration of the show, there will also be no minimum product quantities.

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JOE DAVIES Stand: Hall Q, Stand E18 joedavies.co.uk Harrogate Home & Gift is one of the premier events of the year for Joe Davies. The mid-July timing of the show is perfect for the independent retailer, as it enables it to place the orders in good time for the Christmas selling period. And of course, it is one of the most delightful shows in the giftware calendar. Joe Davies will introduce its brandnew Autumn/Winter 2018 collection at the show, with more than 2,500 exciting new gifts, frames, fashion accessories and jewellery on display on the spacious, friendly stand. The company has been trading for almost 100 years and prides itself on the excellent standard of customer service, for which is has won 16 awards, including the Greats Gold Award for customer service in May this year.  One of Joe Davies’ most successful ranges to date is the popular Equilibrium jewellery and fashion accessories collection. Customers are in for a treat this year, as there are many exciting new Equilibrium collections to offer. The eagerly awaited launch of the 925 by Equilibrium sterling silver collection will add a new dimension to this hugely successful brand and offers something that little bit extra special. The brand-new Celestial Collection will also be launched, showcasing embellished stars and moons that have been influenced by the vibrancy of the Northern Lights. The decadent new handpainted Jewel Tones range in vibrant shades of purple and teal complements the Celestial collection perfectly – look out for these sumptuous trends!  Equilibrium fashion accessories have become a must-have collection for many retailers, and the trend for metallic foil printing features strongly within the range for Autumn/Winter 2018. Some of the metallic-foiled scarves are boxed in co-ordinated branded boxes, making them ideal gifts and perfect pick-up lines for the busy Christmas period. 

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All things LED continue to dominate the gift market, and the Starlight LED Lantern collection ticks all the right boxes. The 24 colourful designs are ideal for night lights in children’s bedrooms and make great gifts for all occasions and ages.  Joe Davies is delighted to offer the fabulous unisex Sock Society collection. This funky, bright range of socks has won the Australian Gift of the Year 2018 and is taking the UK by storm. These socks are made to the highest quality and hit that all important £4.99 retail price point. Phase one was successfully launched at Spring Fair earlier this year. The second phase, consisting of 16 stylish new designs, will debut at Home & Gift. There is an attractive free spinner display stand that holds all 16 designs, enabling the retailer to make a real statement and maximise margin opportunity.  Snoozie, the cosy little foot coverings exclusively distributed in the UK by Joe Davies, is always hugely popular for the second half of the year, and some of its fabulous new collections will be featured on the Joe Davies stand. Fun Boozies and Creature Comforts are just two of the exciting new ranges and capture popular trends with both humorous captions and applique designs like Prosecco Princess, Gin Made Me Do It and Drama Llama – great for those cold winter nights.  Home fragrance has become important for many gift retailers, and Joe Davies is proud to be the distributor of the prestigious Landon Tyler home fragrance collection.  The brand is both luxurious and affordable and has been developed using the finest ingredients and a high percentage of scented oils, ensuring a rich, long-lasting scent. This fabulous, luxuriously packaged range offers great sales potential as both a gift and as a self-purchase for home décor.  Customer service is always at the heart of everything Joe Davies does, whether it’s the trademark “little and often” ordering system, its amazingly low minimum order value of £100 or the friendly, welcoming staff who look forward to seeing you on their spacious stand.

ASHLEIGH & BURWOOD Stand: B4 ashleigh-burwoodtrade.co.uk Ashleigh & Burwood is excited to unveil brandnew Car Fresheners at Home & Gift. Its Car Freshener is the first on the market to offer the user complete control over their in-car fragrance. The innovative design features dual fragrance chambers, both with adjustable vents that allow scents to be swapped, switched, mixed together and the strength of fragrance to be adjusted, offering personalised fragrance experience to the user. The Car Freshener also features a customisable case design, with four ready-to-use designs supplied and the option to download a template that allows the user to add their own image for a unique look. Following the recent successes Wild Things has enjoyed, which includes the Pinemingos Scented Candle from the collection making the shortlist for a Fragrance Foundation award, Ashleigh & Burwood is delighted to be extending the collection. Recognising the popularity of the iconic Wild Things designs conceived by in-house designer Sumitta Spencer-Townson, this season, it is introducing four new products that deliver strong style statements in the home. New to the collection are super-sized Luxury Scented Candles & Diffusers, Home Accent Cushions and printed A5 Notebooks. Another first for the collection will also be Candle Refills in all of the Wild Things fragrances, designed to slot perfectly into standard Wild Things Scented Candle vessels. There is so much more to see on Ashleigh & Burwood’s stand, including a revamped look for the popular Earth Secrets range, new festive gifts in the Artistry Collection, a limited edition Fragrance Lamp Gift Set and new scents for their Fragrance Lamps and Scented Home Diffusers.

BLUE EYED SUN Stand: D110 blueeyedsun.co.uk Blue Eyed Sun is launching a gorgeous new range of everyday cards called Biscuit at Home & Gift. Biscuit has 60 cute designs based on original hand-painted artworks by Jo Corner. They all feature decoupage elements and are hand-finished with jewels in the UK. Covering a good selection of relations and loved ones, this cute range includes loads of relations and occasions captions. The cards are 125x125mm in size, and RRP is £2.75 (trade price £1.14 each). Sold in lots of six to trade buyers only, all of the cards are blank inside, barcoded and cello-wrapped with a coloured envelope. All are printed on board from sustainable sources. Blue Eyed Sun’s cards are available to order through the company’s easy-to-use, trade-only website, as well as via the latest brochures. There is also a team of sales agents across the country that can come in to see you with samples and help you choose the right look for your shop.

exhibitor profiles

CARRIE ELSPETH Stand: DP1-D60 carrieelspeth.com

HEAVEN SCENT Stand: Hall Q, E87 heavenscent.co.uk Heaven Scent is celebrating its 25th year in business in 2018 and has been going to Harrogate Home & Gift for more than 20 years. As a familyrun business, it still keeps its products fresh and interesting. As product designer Sarah Pettitt says: “We add new lines to our candles and body products every year – mainly out of inspiration, much to the apprehension of staff at Heaven Scent as adding to our product ranges has storage implications! We have so many different businesses that we cater for, and trends in beauty and home fragrance are changing all the time, so we like to offer up-to-date, excellent products.” For further details call +44(0)1225 868 788 or email [email protected]

Carrie Elspeth’s AW18 collection builds on nearly 20 years of success, is all lovingly handmade in Wales and ticks all the boxes for the coming season. You’ll find new pieces bursting with bright and colourful glass, semi-precious stones and crystals. The company has additions to the hugely popular wellbeing Chakra Collection, with new positive mantras and adorable charms. Carrie Elspeth also has more of its best-selling leather bracelet range, with new clasps, finishes and designs that are set to make tills ring! To top it all off, it has gorgeous packaging, fresh point of sale and, as always, amazing customer service.

HASSO FASHION Stand: QS-2 wearhasso.com Hasso Fashion is a start up from Newcastle upon Tyne that creates style with a story. Inspired by a love of fashion and cycling, the company designs high-quality shirts and cufflinks for men and women and will be showcasing a new collection of cufflinks this season at Harrogate. “We help our customers to feel special and unique,” says founder Matt Henderson. “It’s about the whole experience, from opening the wooden gift box, moving aside the luxurious fabric and wearing an unusual piece of UK-made jewellery inlaid with fine gems. People are always surprised because they’re not obviously bike chains, so it’s like wearing a small secret in plain sight. It’s a real conversation starter.” Show discounts will be available.

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GOOD AND ORIGINAL Stand: G–D9 goodandoriginal.co.uk Good and Original is a new, dynamic lighting and furniture design studio that brings together many influences to create unique products. From one-off bespoke pieces to volume retail items, it caters for all markets and clientele. The company is delighted to be bringing its low-energy, no-waste lights to Harrogate this year, including the stunning Maelstrom Light, the centrepiece of the LONO range. The versatile Enkel Light, fun Paere Light, tailored Brev Light and striking Kranium Light represent the rest of the carefully considered range. These innovative creations demonstrate the commitment to the production of merchandise that is sustainable, affordable and, most importantly, marketable. Based in Kent, all the products are designed and manufactured on-site in the company’s workshop, meaning the lights are UK through and through.

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SOCK ACADEMY Stand: C55 sockacademy.com Sock Academy is thrilled to be launching its brand new baby sock brand, Cucamelon, at Harrogate Home & Gift 2018. Following the success of its United Oddsocks and Cockney Spaniel brands, Cucamelon will complement the other gifting ranges by providing beautifully cute and colourful gift-boxed socks for babies from 0-2 years. With an initial launch of 10 different boxes in the range, Sock Academy has carefully looked at baby clothing trends, colours and designs to create a range that is adorably eye-catching, both in terms of the socks themselves and the cute designs of the gift boxes. Claire

HOLLY J CRAFTS Stand: GF28 hollyjcrafts.co.uk Holly J Crafts is a family-run sewing and embroidery business based in Yorkshire, with products handmade with passion and pride. The company’s products include: cushions, hanging cushions, peg bags, baseball caps, chefs’ aprons, babies’ bibs and much more. Most products are machine-embroidered with popular on-trend sayings. It is constantly researching, developing and designing fresh

Catlin, assistant director, said: “We wanted to create a range of beautiful baby socks to complement our existing brands and provide more choice in baby gifting. We see this as a market area we can add real colour and fun to. We’re all in love with our new Cucamelon baby sock range and can’t wait for the launch at Harrogate Home & Gift. Our designers have created the most heart-meltingly beautiful range of baby socks, which I’m sure everyone will enjoy giving and receiving, and they have the same superb quality of our other brands.”

ideas into products and embroidery artwork. A Holly J Craft product makes a wonderful handmade gift for all occasions and all ages, with a personalisation and bespoke items service offered too. The products are designed and manufactured to the highest standard and are competitively priced. Holly J Crafts can produce bespoke and personalised products for your shop, company or customer. The company has no minimum order quantities and offers free carriage on orders of more than £100.

MEHA ART Stand: DPD-A44 mehaart.com Originally from Kenya, artist Meha Hindocha now calls Manchester her home. Meha creates vibrant, intricate pieces inspired by everyday interactions and emotions. Her range of richly illustrative cityscape designs includes Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool, London,

Sheffield, New York and Las Vegas, with many more places to come. Meha’s work is available as a wide collection of gift and homeware items, including prints, cushions, mugs, coasters, gin glasses, tea towels and more. She also offers exclusive commissions and bespoke work. Meha has recently worked with the British Museum, Fenwick, Museums Sheffield and Liverpool Cathedral, and her work is stocked in a number of independent gifts shops across the UK.

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PENGUIN INK Stand: GS-36 penguinink.co.uk Penguin Ink makes it debut at Home & Gift and is excited to be launching new designs. The luxury Letterpress puppy collection now includes 16 breeds of dog and sells exceptionally well. New for 2018, a pussycats collection was also launched in this range, and several bestsellers are already appearing. Also new for Christmas 2018 are the 12 days of Christmas large square cards, measuring 150mm square, printed on 360gsm Italian board and letterpress-printed with a deep, crisp pressed design and metallic inks. The designs are striking, bright and simple, using just one or two colours to depict the shadows, highlights and character of animals, concentrating on their eyes. The way in which Penguin Ink uses letterpress printing is modern and unique, juxtaposing the old and the new to give the work a wonderfully tactile finish that can be both seen and felt.

JANICE DAUGHTERS – ARTIST & ILLUSTRATOR Stand: G-A27 janicedaughters.co.uk Janice Daughters – Artist & Illustrator, will be exhibiting for the first time at Home & Gift and featuring her artwork on greetings cards. Janice’s art include designs from the Inky Creatures and Inky Wings collection of animals and birds. These are illustrated using pen and ink with coloured ink wash. The Bouquet Collection of floral designs, depicting colourful, digitally produced artwork, has expanded to include a Sentiments range. Cameo Creatures is a new collection of animal designs, being shown for the first time at the show, with some designs aimed at male recipients. Janice is also the creator of Scruffo Bear Designs, with charming illustrations of Scruffo Bear and his paw pals, Choco and Polo. There are lots of new designs of these delightful characters, with themes of outdoor pursuits, animal friends, gardening and food.

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THE PUPPET COMPANY Stand: DP1 A83 thepuppetcompany.com The Puppet Company is looking forward to exhibiting at the Harrogate Gift Fair again this year. It will be showcasing its latest puppet designs, which include a new 30-piece collection of budget-priced glove puppets. Also new for autumn 2018 will be three superb Dino Head hand puppets, complete with realistic teeth. The Wilberry soft toy collection has grown again this year with the addition of more than 60 new designs. The continuing success of Wilberry Toys is keeping the company busy, but it couldn’t be more pleased.

home & gift preview

JOLA DESIGNS Stand: G-B28 joladesigns.co.uk

NOA Stand: DP3-39A noajewellery.com NOA’s new catalogue will be launched at the Home & Gift Show in Harrogate, featuring a fresh selection of colourful designs hand-crafted in the UK. The company’s jewellery has a distinct identity: British-made yet influenced by art and culture from around the world. NOA is using alternative materials such as ceramics, walnut wood and aluminium, as well as sterling silver, stainless steel and brass, to create a unique yet affordable collection. A beautiful line of men’s cufflinks is also available. The NOA range includes small understated designs and large statement pieces, and it is a perfect fit for gift shops and galleries, as well as fashion boutiques.

Jola Designs is a design company based in Cheshire. As well as designing and producing unique handmade gifts, the company also offers a bespoke design service that includes personalised promotional products along with branded gifts. The Jola team prints everything in-house so is able to offer low minimum quantities, ideal for designers and retailers who want to trial a product or design with no risk involved. The digital printer prints full colour designs directly on to cotton fabric, giving a premium-quality finish to all its products. Jola prints linen cushions, cotton bags, linen make-up bags, linen canvas frames, cotton babywear, cotton tea towels, cotton T-shirts, sweatshirts and aprons. The company works with independent retailers, helping them to keep pace with the ever-changing moods and trends on social media and giving them the flexibility to offer their own designs and to link into trends.

MARMALADE OF LONDON Stand: DP1-A98 marmaladeoflondon.com Never one to rest on its laurels, Marmalade of London has recently added three new collections to its portfolio: Freesia & Pear, White Nectarine & Honey and Prosecco & Juniper. The passion for fragrance and design can be seen not just in the ingredients but also through the contemporary packaging. The company is excited to be presenting these new products at the fabulous Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival 2018 along with its existing portfolio of seasonal and all-year collections. As with all of the collections Marmalade of London produce, they are 100 per cent British-made. The candles are 100 per cent soy wax with cotton wicks and essential oils. The bath and body ranges contain lovely natural ingredients, including shea butter, vitamin E and aloe vera. These new collections have been developed and manufactured in

its laboratories and premises in Cheltenham. Marmalade of London is delighted to be trading in Canada and will soon to be launching in the U.S. But as great and exciting as exporting can be, Marmalade of London has a special place in its heart for Yorkshire.

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exhibitor profiles JEWELCITY Stand: C31 jewelcity.co.uk

DARTINGTON CRYSTAL Stand: B40 dartington.co.uk Dartington Crystal has some fantastic new launches to offer this summer. There are great ideas for the festive and party season with some additions to the ever-popular Party Packs: Slim Gin Party and Rum Party. Just the One Brandy and Rum additions make up the perfect range of drinking gifts, and not to be missed is the new Gin Time Collection, which is a range of Gin Copa glasses with colourful gin-related slogans. Each one comes in a gift tin, making the products ideal as quirky gifts at a great price. Perfect for any home and to display summer flowers, it has a selection of vases. One such product is the funky Bubble vases, which have a distinctive shape and come in on-trend colours to sit in any home with simple minimal stems. Settle is a stunning collection of clear crystal vases – the optical effect adds extra sparkle and enhances the display of either a small posy or a large bouquet of flowers. There are lots of other exciting new things to see from the popular Dartington Crystal drink and gift collections, striking launches from Caithness and a selection of items to add to the John Beswick collection of products.

WRAPTIOUS Stand: DP1-C2 wraptious.com Wraptious is back at Harrogate Home & Gift with some fantastic new products this year. These include work from the company’s newest artists, Adam Barsby and The Lady Moth, who beat 700 other entrants to win the Wraptious artist competition. Adam’s vibrant and bold animal designs are sure to brighten up any home, and his range has been expanded to include prints, cards, ds, cushions, coasters and mugs. The Lady Moth’s adorable able animal cushions have proved to be popular too; her on images are painstakingly created using a combination felting methods, which are then photographed and digitally printed on to soft vegan suede. Her Dormouse se design forms part of her range of six cute animal cushions, created using a combination of felting techniques, with an RRP of £26. Wraptious will also be showcasing new work by textile artist Kate Findlay. Herr gorgeous nature-inspired designs have been created using raw edge appliqué and now form a range beautiful printed greetings cards. Wraptious will also bee introducing a brand-new range of square art canvases, along with the new rustic wooden print frames. 

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Jewelcity is a leading brand and wholesale supplier of jewellery, scarves, bags, cosmetic bags, hats, fascinators and other fashion accessories in the UK and Europe. New for AW18 at Harrogate is the Fable Vintage collection, which started from inspiration from a 1940s vintage bee-style scarf, and this immensely popular selection of make-up bags has expanded to include embroidery and metallic fabrics, covering scarves, cross-body bags and washbags. Many new AW18 ranges will also be launched at the show, and a special exclusive show discount will be available. Designer brand Kaytie Wu, is strongly influenced by the minimalist art movement with contemporary interpretations. Products feature in House of Fraser and other premium gift retailers, as well as welcoming new stockists in certain areas. Two new collections with brand-new packaging will be launched at this show, with special show offers available. Come to see both collections.

home & gift preview

GROOVY UK LTD Stand: DP2-29 Fizz Creations groovyuk.com Groovy will be exhibiting with its distributors at the show. Groovy’s philosophy in the world of licensed giftware is creating original gift lines across bathrobes, jumpsuits, slippers, bags, lighting and ceramics. Licences include Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, Suicide Squad, Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, Assassin’s Creed, Mr. Men and Frida Kahlo. It’s a great time to be a superhero fan, especially if you love the wisecracking mercenary Deadpool. The hilarious tongue-in-cheek, fast action sequel came out earlier in the summer, and Groovy has launched its new ranges for hardcore fans. The line includes a selection of bathrobes, slippers and logo string lights. And if you’re not a robe fan, why not try the hot-off-the-press Deadpool jumpsuit for the more active relaxer! Other superhero collections include Marvel’s Avengers, which is enjoying immense success, becoming the fastest film to reach $1billion at the box office! Ranges include: Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk and Thor, Black Panther, Thanos, Guardians of the Galaxy and more. With the release of the new Harry Potter smartphone game Hogwarts Mystery and with the British exhibition that celebrates the 20th anniversary of the series’ launch, as well as the success of its Harry Potter range, Groovy is expanding its Wizarding World collections to include Harry Potter’s Platform 9 ¾, Quidditch, Dobby, The Golden Snitch & The Deathly Hallows and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. With products ranging from bathrobes, slippers,

lighting and bags, Groovy has gone all-out with magical detail. It includes a luxury hotel-look white and gold Golden Snitch bathrobe and slippers with embroidered wings, a reflective gold body for the Golden Snitch bag and a travel range inspired by Platform 9 ¾, which includes a holdall, backpack, washbag and cosmetic bag, along with a super-soft fleece robe with the 9 ¾ logo embroidered on the back and matching slippers. And Groovy isn’t forgetting the newest film in the Star Wars Anthology series, Solo: A Star Wars Story. During an adventure into the criminal underworld, Han Solo meets future co-pilot Chewbacca before joining the Rebellion. Groovy UK has the perfect accompaniment with its Chewbacca outfit robe. Or go the whole hog with the Chewbacca jumpsuit, made with “Chewie” fur and with his trusty shoulder bag printed and embroidered on to satin. Whether you’re a Jedi, joined the Rebellion or have gone to the Dark Side, Groovy has the perfect gift for you in robes, slippers and lighting. giftfocus 113

HOT TOMATO Stand: DP1-9 hot-tom.com Hot Tomato will be launching more than 400 new fashion accessory lines at Harrogate, ranging from the everyday to partyseason wear. Stars continue to shine bright for the second half of the year and touch all areas of the company’s range in one way or another, including these fab ostrich feather star crystal drops and star frame studs. Design director Alex Machin says: “Harrogate was the first-ever show for Hot Tomato and holds a very special place in our hearts. As with most things, timing is everything. And that first show was back in the heady days just before the scarf revolution, when that was pretty much all we did. But fashion is a fickle mistress, and soon there were scarves everywhere. Segueing into jewellery was a significant step in our evolution and enabled us to offer a comprehensive and commercial balance of all things fashion accessory. We also care about what we buy in terms of the materials used in our designs – the component parts as well as the plating, crystals, stones, etc. And we are lucky enough to have worked with our core suppliers for many years now. They understand our work ethic, and we have built trusting relationships with these partners and their workforces. Harrogate is where it all comes together for our Autumn/Winter collection, and in line with previous years, there will be several-hundred new lines for 2018. It’s always a very exciting show, and we love launching for that 'golden quarter' that is so key to the buying calendar.”

SIMPLY GORGEOUS JEWELLERY AND SCARVES

WILD THINGS GIFTS Stand: B1C wildthingsgifts.com The Wild Things Gifts stand will have lights, movement and sales – a stunning display and a must-see at Home & Gift. There will be 54 watts of LED lighting showing off the slowly rotating Wild Things display tree, featuring 132 sparkling best-selling crystal window ornaments. The original Wild Things are sold all around the world but are designed and mostly made by the company in Devon, all featuring the highest-quality Swarovski crystals. The hand-made, brightly painted Art of Glass range is divided between the flying section – showcasing hummingbirds, dragonflies, butterflies and songbirds – and the marine, featuring seahorses, dolphins and fishes. The British-made Crystal Fantasies range comprises a wide range of designs, from the Tree of Life to the Fairy with Wand, Robins to Owls, Blue Tits to Hares, the Cat in the Moon to Owls, Angels and many more. There will also be four ranges of crystal Guardian Angels. The company is so confident in its new booth display it is offering it free, subject to a minimum spend.

HOME & GIFT STAND

DP3-8

Buy online at missmilly.co.uk or call: 01905 622 509

exhibitor profiles

EARTH SQUARED Stand: DP1, C-74 & QS-50 earthsquared.com

PRETTY PENS Stand: G-C37 pensprettypens.co.uk Pretty Pens is an independent Scottish company based in Glasgow, owned and managed by Moya McNicol, who has been involved in pen sales for many years. Recently, Moya acquired the pen business operated by the long-established company Mandarin Enterprises. The company imports pretty pens from East Asia and sells to retail outlets throughout the UK and across Europe, as well as on eBay and Amazon. The name aptly describes the designs of the pens, which are also known as glitter pens because of the sparkle applied. The range includes geometric, flower and themed bespoke designs, many of which originate in Glasgow and include cats, dogs, butterflies, pandas, owls, tartans and flags. Each pen is supplied with a free velveteen pouch, and gift boxes and refills are also available at extra cost. The company is also offering a 10 per cent discount on orders placed during the event.

N.J. PRODUCTS LTD Stand: DPD-B15 njproducts.co.uk Once again at the Harrogate Home & Gift Show, N.J. Products Ltd is proud to introduce its best-selling Christmas product: the Novelty Christmas printed toilet rolls. These toilet rolls are made from high-quality three-ply tissue and are supplied in a range of 24 designs—a perfect stocking filler for under a fiver. The company welcomes visitors to the stand to discuss its special pallet rate for these novelty rolls. It also supplies a vast range of printed napkins and printed hankies in Everyday and Christmas designs, along with seasonal confectionery bags, paper hankies and cellophane rolls. Why not pop by to pick up a catalogue?

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Visitors to the Earth Squared stand at Home & Gift will see a carefully considered presentation of product ranges with variety of textures and fabric choices. There’s a large collection to choose from, with something for everyone and consistently low prices that give excellent margins for retailers. This year, the beautiful tweed range contains a number of bestselling styles plus the introduction of brand new Phoebe bags and classic tweed-buttoned wraps lined with super-soft cotton jersey. There are eight gorgeous shades, ranging from contemporary cool to traditional and understated. The AW18 collection also includes an impressive range of oil cloths in cool and calm colours that blend seamlessly with the tweeds and other products across the entire collection. There are four new prints all available in favourite styles, such as back packs, Freya bags and messengers, all with soft viscose scarves to match. New ranges to look out for are a winter version of the fabulous patchwork range, which was a big hit in spring, as well as animal appliqué designs including fresh styles in this line.

GISELA GRAHAM Stand: DP1–A8 and A17 giselagraham.co.uk Gisela Graham looks ahead to the Easter/ Spring season. The company’s 2019 collection underlines why she leads this fast-growing secondseason market, featuring four new co-ordinated designer ranges spanning different market sectors and styles: country style, pretty pastels, bold and child-appealing primary colours and sophisticated Victorian style. Each range comprises fillable and decorative eggs, German-style hanging decorations and twigs and Easter trees to hang them from, spring gifts and novelties and impulse pick-up gifts. Harrogate is also a chance to see Gisela’s 20 highly commercial co-ordinated gifts ranges – gifts for gardeners, children’s rooms and modern interior concepts. Some are for autumn delivery; others are for forward-buying, including the pretty new Feathers design especially for Mother’s Day.

NEW LAUNCH

PRODUCTTE HOME & GIFT GA

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STAND DP1-A25 [email protected] 01622 812897

www.raggedrose.com

Adorable Dogs from Frith!

We are adding to our range no less that eight new dog sculptures  - including every ones favourite three more Cockapoos - at Home and Gift as well as new designs of Hedgehogs, Elephants, Cats, Hares and Otters. Also our very successful miniatures MINIMA will expand even more to a collection of 20. Retailing at only £25 these perfect little models will make ideal presents at Christmas. The gift for the person who has everything - suggest these to your customers when they want to find something unusual. Order early and take advantage of our Show offers – ONLY available at Harrogate!  See us in Hall A on stand A9 – Harrogate Home and Gift Contact us for more details www.frithsculpture.co.uk | [email protected] | 01666 577110

home & gift preview

ABITQUACKERS Stand: Q-D7 abitquackers.com This is the fourth year of ABitQuackers showing at Harrogate, and it is an established part of its season. The company will be showcasing further developments in its range at the show with new developments this year and a sneak preview of some of the new ranges launching shortly. The M64 Stallion bust has been a popular addition to the range, and the company is revealing two updates to this, which will be available to order at the show. ABitQuackers is friendly to deal with, and managing director John would love to say hello to you at the show.

WILD & WOLF Stand: DP2-3 wildandwolf.co.uk Wild & Wolf will be showing lots of new products this year. In Gentlemen’s Hardware, the new range of stylish accessories are thoughtfully crafted using recycled leather fibre, and the tools feature premium finishes such as wooden handles and scratchresistant titanium carbide coating. Last season, it launched Yes Studio and is pleased to be introducing five bold new stationery lines to the collection. Ridley’s Games sees a season of newness like never before! Two years in the making, with hundreds of hours play-testing along the way, the company is launching original new games Avocado Smash, Selfish, Caffeine Hit, Sumo Slam and Draw A Blank. Petit Collage has expanded its popular early-years collection with the launch of a new Peek-a-boo House Stacking Blocks Play Set and a delightful Wooden Ferris Wheel Play Set. Additionally, it will be showcasing two new DIY craft kits from the Crafts and Activities range: My Wood Jewellery and My Stationery Set. The Orla Kiely collection of ceramics is extending to feature a lovely new Scribble Square Flower print along with a Dachshund print, stemming from the success of its Dachshund serving board in SS17. Visitors will also be able to get their hands on a stylish new collection of gifts from Ted Baker, as well as the aromatherapy range from Folklore.

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hot off the press

YANKEE CANDLE Stand: Q-E39 yankeecandle.co.uk This year, Yankee Candle will be showcasing new festive collections Holiday Sparkle and Elevation.

HOLIDAY SPARKLE Launching in store and online in October 2018, the exciting new Christmas collection is influenced by that magical hour of sunset, with a fresh take on reflective materials. An elegant, metallic palette is beautifully complemented by rich and traditional red, green and blue tones, creating a mixture of finishes for a contemporary twist on a classic festive look. The new festive collection will help bring an air of sparkling warmth to displays this Christmas, aiming to emit a refreshingly optimistic and uplifting energy. Snuggle up to loved ones, relax by the tree and become immersed in this enchanted season with an array of beautiful and exciting candles, accessories and gift sets from Yankee Candle. The four new charming fragrances include: Winter Wonder – A dazzling winter fragrance mix of champagne and citrus, vanilla and silver balsam. Glittering Star – A shimmering fragrance that gives sandalwood a sparkle with sugar plum and ginger. Frosty Gingerbread – Freshly frosted gingerbread is a fragrant holiday delight that help fills any room with welcome and warmth. Icy Blue Spruce – A fresh breath of winter forest, blending scents of juniper berries, blue spruce, spearmint leaves. Each of the Christmas fragrances is available in the six classic candle forms, including Large, Medium and Small Jar Candles, Votive Candles, Wax Melts, and Tea Light plus Scenterpiece™ Easy Melt Cups. Completing the Holiday Sparkle offering will be seven new collections of accessories that feature an array of beautifully designed decorations, including: Holiday Sparkles, Frosty, Gold Mosaic, Shimmer Glow, Forest Glow, Winter Trees and Winterscape. Each fabulously festive collection includes a variety of accessory forms, including Melt Warmers, Votive Holders, Large and Small Shades, Trays and Lanterns to help set the scene and create a perfect Christmas ambiance inside the home. 120 giftfocus

ELEVATION Add a touch of sophistication and style to the home this autumn with the new Elevation Collection from Yankee Candle. Available in store and online from September 2018, this collection has an elegant silhouette and stylish aesthetic that is enhanced by integrating the lid as a base. The dual-purpose lid has been specifically designed to securely fit into the bottom of the glass, providing stylish protection for most surfaces and creating a unified look – the perfect home accessory! It has been developed using a balance of the high-quality glass and contemporary, clean lines to create a distinct shape that complements the style of any room. Smooth soy wax and modern, on-trend fragrances lead to enjoyable, sensory experiences. Creating enjoyable, room-filling fragrance experiences, the large-sized statement and medium-sized décor candles contain multiple wicks to allow for an even burn. The collection’s chic design, paired with décor-focused palettes and artistic watercolour imagery, will complement each and every room. The collection is specifically nuanced to embrace each scent’s major note, with newly developed complex and on-trend fragrances helping appeal to the refined consumer. The Elevation Collection candles are available in 12 indulgent core fragrances: • Velvet Woods (HERO) – A fragrance reminiscent of a stroll through rich woods with exotic interludes of warm amber and a hint of sweet fruit blossoms. • Evening Star – Baby rose and juniper. • Magnolia & Lily – Magnolia blooms tinged with citrus. • Citrus Grove – A breath of bright lemon zest rounded with soft pine and a hint of eucalyptus. • Dark Berries – Reminiscent of a bowl of ripe blackberries near a window overlooking peony and rose. • Sheer Linen – Linen sheets dancing in the breeze and welcoming in the scent of fresh morning air. • Shore Breeze – Sweet beach blossoms and a kiss of salt in the air. • Coastal Cypress – A refreshing swirl of sea breeze combing through the coastal pines with inland iris and orchid. • Sweet Nectar Blossom – Sweet vanilla and creamy coconut mingle with delicate lily. • Harvest Walk – Fragrances of bright sun on birch and eucalyptus with a dash of sandalwood. • Ginger Pumpkin – Cinnamon, clove, ginger and pumpkin. • Pear & Tea Leaf – Smooth chai tea with notes of ginger, apple and fresh pear.

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hot off the press

THE MUSIC GIFTS COMPANY Stand: DP3-13 musicgifts.co.uk Having exhibited at Harrogate since 2000, this year’s show sees The Music Gifts Company to a new location within DP3. As well as the music-themed gifts, there is also its men’s range Element which was launched at Harrogate just three years ago. At this year’s show, Music Gifts has taken the bold move to show the two ranges on a combined stand. By doing this, Music Gifts wants to stress that customers can select products from both ranges with the benefit of just one supplier. As a combined stand is more economical, they want to pass on the saving to customers, by offering five per cent discount on all orders placed at the show. Being their last show of the year, this means that all the new gifts for Christmas are being showcased. Highlights include four glasses cases (two music-themed, one cycling and one golf) as well as fridge magnets, socks, ties, cards, mugs and the return of photo frames. Element has a great new selection of cheeky gifts for sporting enthusiasts, available as socks, mugs and birthday cards.

GIBSONS GAMES Stand: DP1-C16 gibsonsgames.co.uk Gibsons is excited to return to Home & Gift this year with plenty of exciting new products. Not only will it be showing a selection of beautiful new Christmasthemed jigsaws, but it will also be revealing a new licensed jigsaw puzzle and new range of Sweet Memories gift tin puzzles. One of Gibsons’ Christmas puzzles is Christmas Street: 12 Days of Christmas Calendar. Unbox 12 festive surprises this December with Gibsons’ Christmas countdown puzzle. Behind each door, you’ll find an irresistible treat in the form of an 80-piece jigsaw. Due to the the popularity of the 500-piece VW Campervan puzzle released last year, Gibsons has launched a brilliant new VW Campervan 1000-piece puzzle. Travel back in time to the Summer of Love with the hugely iconic Volkswagen Campervan montage. Finally, Gibsons will be unveiling four new gift puzzles, the Sweet Memories Tins. Each tin holds a 500-piece puzzle featuring a mouth-watering collage of delicious treats from either the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s or 1980s. Open the tin and dive in!

LIFE CHARMS Stand: DP3-40 lifecharms-trade.co.uk

LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME Stand: DP2-19 littlebirdtoldme.co.uk Little Bird Told Me is renowned for its stylised and innovative infant rocking horses and animals. Following on from the huge success with Celeste and Fae Rocking Unicorn comes its unisex stablemate, Moonbeam & Rae. This stunning rocking unicorn features an exquisite starry-printed fabric body in delicate shades of powder blue and grey and a silvery soft chenille mane, tail and saddle. Included with the unicorn is Rae, an adorable co-ordinating little teddy bear that fits snugly into Moonbeam’s pocket. Moonbeam & Rae Rocking Unicorn is available from August and is suitable for children aged nine months and up. It comes complete with a scrunchy mane and tail, smartly painted wooden rockers, handles and detachable foot plates.

Life Charms has launched a new collection of gifts themed on the everincreasing fascination with social media. This exciting new range is called #SHAREiT and #WEARiT and features Instagram-inspired cards that are designed for family, friends and special occasions. They all come with an exquisite adjustable silver or gold bracelet for the lucky recipient to wear.  Modern, fresh and bang on-trend, this most thoughtful gift is designed to pop into an ordinary greeting card and can be posted for the price of a normal letter.  Additionally, trade prices are only £3.75, with starter packs and display stands also available.  Come to say hello and see these and all the other lovely products for yourself. giftfocus 123

new exhibitor showcase Pretty Pens Stand G-C37

Humblewood Stand G-E3

An independent company based in Glasgow, Pretty Pens imports from the Far East and sells to retail outlets throughout the UK and Europe. 8LIVERKIMRGPYHIWKISQIXVMG¾S[IVERHXLIQIH bespoke design’s many of which originate in Glasgow. Each pen is supplied with a free velveteen pouch and Pretty Pens are offering a 10 per cent discount on carriage paid orders (£80) placed during Harrogate Home & Gift.

Hand-made from sustainable hardwoods with a dash of eco-friendly colour, Humblewood’s homewares and giftwares ooze with contemporary, retro-inspired personality. From their best-selling fridge magnet vases and quirky wonky clocks, to all-in-a-row vases, in-the-round table centres, iSmart phone stands and fun-sized furniture, everything is designed and made in England.

T: +44 (0)141 533 7780 E: [email protected] W: pensprettypens.co.uk

T: +44 (0)7740 076 173 E: [email protected] W: humblewood.uk

Holly J Crafts Stand GF28

The Point Paper Art Company Stand G-C38

Holly J Crafts is a family-run sewing and embroidery business based in East Yorkshire. The products are designed with passion and lovingly handmade in Yorkshire. Items are manufactured to a high standard and competitively priced. 8LI½VQSJJIVW[SRHIVJYPYRMUYI gifts for all ages and occasions with personalisation and bespoke items also available. Holly J is new to the show with fresh ideas!

Prior to the advent of computer-aided design (CAD), drawings for woven textile patterns were translated by craftsmen onto special graph paper called point papers. The Point Paper Art Company brings the lost craft of point paper drawing and its beautiful art to a new audience through its artwork and greeting card range.

T: +44 (0)1759 318 200 E: [email protected] W: hollyjcrafts.co.uk

T: +44 (0)7715 002 090 E: [email protected] W: richardmrsmith.com/the-pointpaper-art-company

Penguin Ink Stand GS-36

Nutmeg and Sage Stand G-A8

New to Home & Gift, Penguin Ink will be showcasing its whole range of luxury letterpress animal greetings and note cards. Lizzie’s unique style has been well received with the new Puppies designs and Christmas cards, bringing her design-led Letterpress cards to nearly 100 designs.

Nutmeg and Sage creates original textiles, gifts and kitchen ware, all inspired by nature and botanical art with a touch of the Arts and Crafts movement. Using the colour palette of the Cotswolds and Yorkshire, products are handmade to add colour and textural accents to home décor and gifts. The range includes cushions, ceramics, tote bags, stationery and tableware.

T: +44 (0)7525 497 122 E: [email protected] W: penguinink.co.uk

T: +44 (0)7777 692 146 E: [email protected] W: nutmegandsage.co.uk

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new exhibitor showcase

Cardmore Stand GS-58

H2k of Harrogate Ltd Stand DP1-B62

The Sienna’s Garden Collection features greeting cards, notepads, boxed notes, emery boards and smart cloths. Really great gifts with matching designs throughout the range – match a notepad to a smart cloth or an emery board to notepad and give them to a friend to say thank you. Beautiful designs with high UYEPMX]½RMWLERHE  fast-selling product!

Inspired by the beautiful spa town of Harrogate in North Yorkshire, ,OSTIRIHMXW¾EKWLMTWXSVIMR)ZIV]TVSHYGXMWYXXIVP] YRMUYIERHVI¾IGXWXLITYVMX]ERHZMXEPMX]XLEXLEWQEHI,EVVSKEXI W]RSR]QSYW[MXLLIEPXL ERHFIEYX]JSVGIRXYVMIW -RJYWMRKSVKERMGI\XVEGXW [MXLIRLERGIHJSVQYPEXMSRW XLIGSQTER]TVSQSXIW ZMXEPMX]MRWMHIERHSYX

T: +44 (0)1947 601 604 E: [email protected] W: cardmore.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1423 709 030 E: [email protected] W: h2kskincare.com

Hasso Fashion Stand QS-2

Nana’s Manners Stand G-C27

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T: +44 (0)191 645 9988 E: [email protected] W: wearhasso.com

T: +44 (0)20 3179 2350 E: [email protected] W: nanasmanners.com

Good and Original Limited Stand G-D9

By Molly&Izzie Ltd Stand G-B17

Good and Original Limited will be showcasing its ‘low energy, no waste’ lights this year, including the stunning Maelstrom Light, the centre piece of the LO-NO range. The versatile Enkel; fun Paere; tailored Brev; and striking Kranium lights represent the rest of their carefully considered range. Sustainable, affordable and most importantly, marketable.

&VMRKMRKMXWHIWMKRPIHNI[IPPIV]XS,SQI +MJXJSVXLI½VWXXMQI By Molly&Izzie jewellery offers a sense of cohesion across a varied VERKISJPS[TVMGITSMRXW[MXLEQMRMQYQSVHIVSJNYWX† 8LIGSQTER][MPPFIPEYRGLMRK a new range of bespoke Wish &VEGIPIXWEXXLIWLS[GVIEXIH IWTIGMEPP]JSVKMJXWLSTWXSYVMWX EXXVEGXMSRWERHZMWMXSVWGIRXIVW

T: +44 (0)7530 787 505 E: [email protected] W: goodandoriginal.co.uk

T: +44 (0)7738 244 537 E: [email protected] W: mollyandizziewholesale.co.uk

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inside interiors Visit Formex in Stockholm this autumn for leading Nordic design In brief Show Organiser Where When Website Twitter

Formex Stockholm International Fairs Stockholmsmässan, Sweden 21st – 24th August 2018 formex.se @formex

Formex started in 1960 and is held twice a year, at the beginning of January and at the end of August. The show has about 850 exhibitors per fair, with products within interior design, fashion and accessories and more. The fair brings together national and international buyers, agents, designers, producers and media from all over the interior design and gifts industry. Each fair has about 23,000 visitors and about 650 media representatives. Besides the opportunity to do business, the fair gives visitors information about trends, inspiration and knowledge in the form of exhibitions and lectures. At Formex this autumn, the show is presenting a guest creator: Abigail Ahern. Ahern, a formidable name on the UK interior design scene, will create a themed exhibition in the entrance hall. Internationally acclaimed for her interior design style, Ahern combines dark inky hues, odd shapes, the new and the old, plants and faux botanicals. The title of guest creator is a new initiative from Formex in response to growing international interest in the fair. “We are noticing more international interest in Formex with each passing year, which is fantastic because it fits with our internationalization strategy and confirms that we’re moving in the right direction”, says Christina Olsson, project leader at Formex. Ahern’s inspiring exhibition at the entrance hall will greet the fair’s visitors on their way inside. “It will be highly rewarding to be a part of Formex and do an exhibition in Sweden, which is a first for me,” she says. “I look forward to creating the exhibition handin-hand with the seasonal theme, where

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unexpected gatherings form a creative synthesis.” Ahern is one of the hottest names in interiors and design. With her unique combination of deep colors and playful proportions, she has redefined standards in home design, light years away from our conventional expectations of “bright and fresh.” She is admired for her ability to break boundaries and take on darker palettes with a masculine touch, crafting a style that adds magic and mystery to any space. “We truly look forward to our collaboration with Abigail Ahern, who, with her personal sense of style and feel for colour and shape, will create something totally unique for Formex in August,” says Kajsa Falck, operative event manager at Formex. “Visitors will be

able to experience British design style, which is more colorful and more daring than its Scandinavian counterpart and pairs well with the autumn theme of Unexpected Gatherings.” During 21st – 24th August, there will be the opportunity for visitors to experience a unique collaboration between Sveriges Hantverksråd and Hemslöjden. There will be six masters and journeymen showcasing their exceptional knowledge within crafts. Firewood ceramics, tulle embroidery, linseed oiled oak and much more will be presented with the possibility to try it yourself. Visit Formex this August to experience the crafts and workmanship of the industry’s best sculptors, hand weavers, pottery makers and portrait photographers.

HOMI

HOMI, where style resides The 10th edition of the Fiera Milano Lifestyle Trade Fair will take place in September amidst new experimentations, trends and creativity HOMI, the Fiera Milano Lifestyle Trade Fair dedicated to decorative elements for the home and personal accessories, will be back this September with endless new stylistic ideas thanks to the extensive exhibition proposal that characterises the event, which is renowned for its strong and unmistakable personality. Now in its 10th edition, the exhibition that bears witness to changing styles has cemented its status as a privileged observatory on lifestyle-related trends. The show will once again come alive with an extensive and transversal product offering: accessories and decorative home furnishings, tableware, fabrics and textiles for the home, essences and fragrances for the ambient, as well as promotional items, gift ideas and decorative objects for the office and for special events. Alongside homeware, there will also be a vast space dedicated to personal items, including fashion accessories and bijoux. Here, creativity reigns supreme, with endless materials and infinite possible shape combinations – a continually evolving mosaic that will feature an even greater focus on experimentation and research. There will be special pathways and spaces that combine traditions and revamped elaborations,

where visitors will be able to find original and exclusive creations. Numerous workshops, conferences and talk shows will breathe life into each exhibition sector, representing a highly formative moment for industry players, as well as an opportunity to meet up and exchange views and ideas on topics dear to the Lifestyle Trade Fair. THE EVENTS NARRATING TRENDS Not simply an exhibition event, HOMI is also a place where visitors can directly explore the styles that come alive through events and exclusive initiatives. Amidst experimental areas, exhibitions and symbolic spaces designed to inspire the operators in terms of new trends, the Lifestyle Trend Fair explores different worlds, seeing them coexist and evolve edition after edition. The HOMI Trend Area will therefore be making a comeback. The space – organised alongside WGSN, the international leading company in market analyses, style forecasts and the consumer – will host the up-andcoming season’s most interesting trends, and becoming an essential logbook to best understand where lifestyle trends are heading. The scientific-cultural partnership between HOMI and Polytechnic University of Milan has been confirmed, for the third consecutive edition, to organise HOMI Hybrid Lounge within the Materials Area. The fruit of important research activities on new trends in interior design and innovative materials, HOMI Hybrid Lounge will once again be an informal space for discussion, imbued by the fluidity of contemporary living. Mirabilis Vitrum - Vetri D’italia is instead the title of La Magnifica Forma, the experimental HOMI laboratory dedicated to the comparison

IN BRIEF Show Organiser Where When Website Twitter

HOMI - The Lifestyle Trade Fair Fiera Milano Spa fieramilano, Italy 14th - 17th September 2018 homimilano.com @homimilano

between design and arts and crafts, which, in its 10th edition, will be devoted to glassworking, an activity boasting longstanding traditions and profound historical roots.

THE SPECIAL AREAS There will also be countless new offerings in the special areas, where HOMI focuses on specific themes. These include DA UNO A CENTO, with the most original limited-edition self-productions, and HOMI CREAZIONI, with the premium-quality design and craftsmanship proposals of Italian and international companies, selected for their outstanding technical and research capacities. There, visitors will discover innovative offerings and interesting revisited elaborations. Last but not least, EDITORA TESSILE will feature innovation and essential textile product trends that will expand the home textiles segment already present at HOMI with the addition of outstanding finished products. g

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GLOBAL SOURCING

At the centre of Asian sourcing every October are Comasia’s seven co-located product shows to cater for every sourcing need

In brief

Managed by Comasia Limited, the largest sourcing event running across the last two weeks of every October in Hong Kong is one of the region’s most important marketplaces for gifts, premiums, housewares, kitchen and dining, lifestyle, toys, games and stationery. The show has become a regular fixture for global buyers. In 2017, the seven co-located product shows together brought in nearly 50,000 buyers from more than 130 countries and regions. With 5,315 exhibition stands featuring 4,085 suppliers over the seven show days, the two-phase mega event again provided a vital trading platform for global buyers to connect with seasoned Asian manufacturers and source from the highquality merchandise on offer.

Managed by Where

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Show

When Website

In addition to the ideal show dates and convenient downtown venue location, the wide spectrum of directional products, creative ideas and design innovations all help to reaffirm the mega event’s status as a premier platform for Asian sourcing in Hong Kong every October. The 2018 edition will take place on 20th23rd and 27th-29th October at the world-class Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with a further-refined product segmentation into seven thematic product shows. The first four co-located shows,

Asian Gifts & Premiums Show Asian Festive, Christmas & Seasonal Show Asian Gifts & Travel Goods Show Comasia Ltd Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre 20th-23rd October, 2018 and 27th-29th October, 2018 asiangnp.com asianchristmas.com asiangnt.com

taking place on 20th-23rd October, will present four product sectors, namely the Asian Gifts & Premiums Show, Asian Housewares & Kitchen Show, Asian Toys & Games Show and Asian Festive, Christmas & Seasonal Show. A few days later, during 27th-29th October, 2018, another three merchandise categories will be featured and presented as part of the Asian Gifts & Travel Goods Show, Asian Stationery Show and Asian Sanitary & Bathroom Accessories Show. With well-defined product sectors presented in clearly designated halls, attending buyers will easily find and locate their target merchandise and suppliers. Be there to capture the biggest value and reap the great benefits from the mega sourcing experience. For further information, please visit asiangnp.com

[email protected]

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Namaste – a greener vision for the planet Be sure to visit the company’s showroom during Open Week Open Week 15th-20th July 2018 Opening times: Sunday - Tuesday 9am-8pm Wednesday - Friday 9am-5.30pm Namaste is known for its inspirational and eclectic collection, fairly traded from the far corners of the world. The company is perhaps less well known as a supplier of products with environmental credentials, but that is all set to change with a new focus on the very positive trend of increasing demand for products that reduce the load on the planet. We all know we need to consume less and recycle more, but how do you square that with buying beautiful things for the home and as gifts? Namaste believes that by focusing on items made from recycled or environmentally friendly raw materials and ensuring they are made under Fairtrade guidelines, this can be achieved. The company makes sure to discuss its environmental policies and use of recycled materials with its suppliers while encouraging them to use both recycled and environmentally friendly packaging materials.

Customers are becoming more and more interested in these subjects, and Namaste’s loyal band of retailers are reporting back that interest in these product areas is booming and driving sales forward. Namaste’s 2018 catalogue has just been printed and features an increased range of recycled and environmentally friendly products again. It has also improved the labelling of these in the catalogue to quickly identify them and to provide their valued customers with more information. Open Week The busy team in Yorkshire is gearing up for its Open Week during the week of Harrogate’s Home & Gift Show (which runs from 15th -18th July, 2018). Namaste’s impressive and wellorganised showroom is in the market town of Skipton, 30 minutes from Harrogate. ‘Namaste’ can be simply translated as ‘welcome’ in the Himalayan country of Nepal, and this has a special resonance during the company’s Open Week. Last year’s event

Handmade eco-friendly coconut bowls with eggshell decoration 132 giftfocus

Vintage Effect Burnished Glass Tealight Holders from handmade recycled glass

Namaste open week

100 per cent handloom-recycled cotton Mandira cushion cover was a great success, and this year, visitors will again be provided a warm welcome, with homemade curries or fantastic Yorkshire cream teas available. An inspirational, eclectic collection of products, fairly traded from the far corners of the world, an extra Open Week discount, excellent stock levels, a huge range, friendly efficiency and a warm welcome are on offer! Namaste is hoping to move to a bigger warehouse soon and to clear out the current warehouses of all sale lines, one-off bargains and samples. The company has a vast amount of stock in these areas and will be launching a massive clearance sale during the Open Week. Don’t miss out; this will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Extra Discount A visit to the showroom is the best way to appreciate the extensive offering, which includes gifts, home accessories, furnishings, furniture, clothing and accessories, jewellery and incense, as well as one-off pieces and amazing clearance deals. A very generous discount system with an extra one-off five per cent for visitors during the week means savings can add up to a massive 25 per cent. This focus on strong products is complemented by impressive stock levels. The vast majority of customers are independent retailers, and the friendly sales team strives to accommodate their disparate needs. Increasingly, garden centres, visitor attractions, zoos and museums are featuring their products. Ordering is easy, and orders can be placed several ways: • Large, well-organised and relaxed showroom and cash and carry. Many customers take advantage of this and combine a visit to Namaste with a holiday or break in the Yorkshire Dales or Lake District National Parks. An extra five per cent discount applies to cash and carry orders, and during Harrogate week, this extra discount still applies even if you cannot take the goods with you. Delivery is at Namaste’s expense. • Take your time to browse through a full set of free catalogues. Prices are coded, allowing smaller retailers to show the catalogues Halaka Multi Circles 100 per cent handloom Jute Rugs. Jute is a natural organic fibre and is eco-friendly, biodegradable and recyclable

Best-selling ranges of Indian wind chimes, made from recycled iron to customers and then place orders with Namaste on a regular basis. • Give Namaste a call on +44 (0)1756 700 790, and the friendly Sales Team can offer advice on best-sellers. • More and more customers are placing orders on Namaste’s website, which is easy to use and constantly updated. The minimum order is only £150. The showroom is open all year, Monday – Friday, 9am - 5.30pm. g Namaste is a member of BAFTS, the British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers. Namaste UK Ltd. Snaygill Industrial Estate, Skipton, North Yorkshire. BD23 2QR T: +44(0)1756 700 790 W: namaste-uk.com giftfocus 133

business advice

do you want to launch your brand and sell in America? Gift entrepreneur David Hicks is the founder of card & gift brands Really Good and Soul. David started with a £200 investment and built a business that’s blossomed into a £4 million company selling to more than 30 countries globally. Here are his tips to help you crack the US Do you want to break into America and make your fortune? Good idea…I did too. Once. So, what happened? Just months after I started my business, I thought why bother with little England when I had the dizzy lights and huge population of the States to conquer. I quickly landed to my senses. Literally. The warnings came thick and fast. An awful flight over to New York, followed by hiding from knife wielding thugs in Port Authority bus terminal, and I was already thinking that this wasn’t how it was meant to be. I saw the British Council in a tall, posh building in central Manhattan. One of the first questions they asked was the size of my then-

cards. I had the answer of course, in decimal measurements, which the Americans didn’t use or understand. I bullishly pressed ahead. I can’t tell you exactly when I got the message that I was being naive, but at least I did. It was the early days of the business, and I’d spent every penny I had on the flight, staying with the brother of a good friend of mine, a two-hour bus ride out of New York, and commuted every day.  It was the New York Stationery Show, so I had a slight excuse to be there at that time too, walking around showing my cards to anyone who would look also drew a muted response. I really couldn’t see why. After all, the cards were funny and designed well,

according to me and English people. Then, a failed partnership with a small business distributing my cards meant I had to look myself in the mirror. I was forced to come to several conclusions. Firstly, they didn’t understand or appreciate my, or the British, sense of humour. Secondly, I’d never get the money back that I’d lost trying. Thirdly, a rather long overdue look at American stats.  Yes, they have a population of some 325 million, as opposed to our modest 65 million, but about 90 per cent of their market is taken by two massive companies. That leaves about 32.5 million people between all the other companies operating in that market,

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do you want to launch your brand and sell in America? and some of those companies are quite big!  Effectively, our now distributor is the equivalent of one of our sales areas in the UK. A sobering thought, and one that closed the fantasy down for good. The other huge factor is that things that look good and sell in England don’t necessarily work in the USA. Obviously, this works the other way around too. There are some things I see in America that I honestly think are dreadful, so it stands to reason that this would cut both ways. And we’re talking design and styling here. Take American Folk Art for instance. We simply don’t have that history, desire and love of it that they do. I wince when I see some things over there. So, we’re not only divided by a common language, but a design sense too.  Clearly that doesn’t apply to everything or nothing would work or sell either side of the ‘pond’. But it’s a massive thing to take into consideration when you want to deal there. I repeat, not everything that is great here or there, will work in the opposite market. The humour is different there, and frankly in lots of countries, which is something that’s plagued me for many years. I once did a deal with a German company. They translated the cards in a German way, and someone read them back to me in English. They were dire. Truly awful I thought. So, I employed my own German person to translate them, and guess what? They flopped big time. The words and humour just didn’t work over there, and

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I rebuilt my assumptions and retreated. A lesson learned.  Nowadays, I’m completely comfortable with the cultural differences of everywhere, and my philosophy is to design for my own market and hope that others like it. And, as someone that uses a distributor, whom I’m sure will openly admit to all the buying mistakes and assumptions that they’ve made too, I can honestly say just relax and take it on the chin. Some things you have may well work well there, but others won’t. We all want to take over the world and be number one everywhere, but we can’t. While the UK is still seen as the most creative hub for cards in the world, the most important thing is just to keep designing fresh looks and something will stick. After showing my cards to no avail in a number of foreign exhibitions, I decided that the best thing was to just relax, design, and let the professional distributors find us, which they did. After all, their businesses rely on fresh new design, and they know their market, so why would I assume any better. Yes, I can advise on how something is doing for us, but they know what they can sell, and it’s their job to walk the shows and see everything for their business. So what about dealing directly? A great idea in theory. Well we looked at it and it’s not so clear cut. American businesses, stores in this case, understandably want to deal with a company that has an American office, phone number, and warehouse. I recently chatted to a small UK company that had the idea of setting up to deal there. Quite rightly, they could have a phone number that’s American and forward it to their place in England, until I pointed out that the time difference would mean them getting phone calls in the early hours of the morning. They weren’t as keen on that idea.  And yes, you could set up an office and distribution out there, but when you really break down your figures from hope to reality, and factor in your time, travel, exhibitions too, is it really worth it? You could do all these things. Research it well, after of course you’ve tested your product to make sure it sells over

there. Factor in your flights, which could be every month easily (good for air miles and upgrades at least!), your time, and most importantly your time spent away from your home market. Are you going to take your eye off the ball here?  Exhibitions are frequent there, and regional, and as we all know, this is a big country so regional could easily be an internal flight away. And you’ll have to attend, at least while you’re building your business there, which could take a long time.  You’ve got to sleep somewhere, make phone calls, employ someone to pick up the phone, have some sort of office, a warehouse (or fulfilment company) to store, pack and deliver your goods, and see customers here and there. No worse than building a business here, but a very big country to deal in, with the small matter of a large ocean in the way. Everything is possible, so don’t let me put you off, but if you take nothing at all from my experience, just make sure you have something that’s wanted there, and don’t leave it to assumption or your own optimism. It’s a big market, which makes for big opportunities if you have the time and determination. Good luck! For further information, visit DavidHicks.co

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Clere Vision Home & Gift - Hall B, Stand B25 Visit our website to see all products www.clereconceptsandvision.co.uk

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Home & Gift Hall A Stand 28 Order online www.malaleather.com Agents Required

Tel: 01827 67401 Fax: 01827 67046 2 Bridgeside Trading Estate, Kettlebrook Road, Tamworth, B77 1AG

the ga

GA news We bring you the very latest news from The Giftware Association Hotel. It was an exclusive opportunity to meet newer members and talk about the needs and wants of suppliers for the home and gift industry. Simon Wadsworth from Wraptious, one of the suppliers, said: “For me, it was really well-organised, and there was fantastic engagement from majority of buyers. And what a great setting!” Simone Rose, business development manager at the GA said: “We want to take these types of events on the road more often, as the day was a real success. We are very happy, as these events have always generated orders from buyers and allowed them to see products that they may have never seen at a larger trade show or event. It was also a great chance to catch up with our members and hear more about what they want from the months ahead.” Success at Meet the Buyer event The Giftware Association recently took its successful Meet the Buyer events on the road for the first time, with an exclusive and exciting event with The Tillington Group of Garden Centres. The event was held in Low Wood Bay in the heart of the Lake District and featured giftware suppliers presenting and showcasing their products to buyers from 10 Tillington garden centres. It is the second time the GA has worked with the Tillington Group, with last year’s event being held in Essex, and it was such a success that the GA was invited back to present members to key industry buyers. The event kept the usual formula, with all suppliers getting important one-on-one time with the buyers. It was by application only, and the successful attendees were carefully selected by the various Tillington buyers ahead of event. Gillian Munro from Otter Nurseries, who helped with the organisation of the event, said: “It was a great success, and the feedback was positive from the Tillington buyers and suppliers. The proof will be in the scale of new orders and accounts.” The GA team hosted all the suppliers the night before at the Low Wood Bay Resort

The Future of CE Marking meeting Using its unique position as the voice of the home and gift industry, the Giftware Association has been present at high-level government talks recently on subjects that matter to its members. This includes taking part in the Access to Finance Committee meetings, discussing the finance needs of SMEs and being invited to the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. This was a great way to present GA members’ views to the people with the power to make the changes. GA CEO Sarah Ward was in attendance, invited by the British Toy and Hobby Association to the Future of CE Marking meeting to discuss the challenges and benefits of the CE marking and potentially moving away to a UK-only safety standard.

Safety and product testing are big issues in the home and gift industry, and with it affecting so many member businesses, Sarah was once again honoured to go to the Palace of Westminster, hosted by Neil Coyle MP and staff from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, to discuss the future of the safety marking after Brexit. The progress of Brexit and what it means to UK businesses has been slow, with information being drip-fed from the government, which can be worrying for a business trying to plan for the future. The Toy and Hobby Association has set up a confederation of sorts with 11 fellow associations, representing more than 3,000 businesses that will be affected by the future of safety testing and the CE mark. The Toy Retailers Association, Hasbro Toys, Tech UK and the British Standards Institute were all in attendance. The mark currently gives industry and consumer confidence to many companies and is a sign of the free trade movement that is recognised across the EU member states. The concerns from all in attendance was that after Brexit, if a new UK-only mark was to be introduced, whether this be recognised amongst other EU member states and whether the relationship between the UK and EU be strong enough for the mark to be acknowledged. Timescales were also discussed, with the government not being transparent on timelines or deadlines and a strong contingent wishing to remain with the current CE marking. There still needs to be a great deal of discussion on further steps to ensure that the most effective safety marking, CE or otherwise, is implemented. The Giftware Association will be party to further discussion and will continue to update its members and the industry at large.

Further information For The GA, log on to ga-uk.org giftfocus 139

GIFTS & PREMIUM FAIR AND PRINTING FAIR DRAW 64,000+ BUYERS The 33rd Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair closed its doors in April after a very successful show The 33rd Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The concurrent 13th Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and CIEC Exhibition Company (HK) Ltd, took place at AsiaWorld-Expo. The four-day twin fairs together attracted more than 64,000 buyers from 145 countries and regions, up 3.5 per cent on last year. Among emerging markets, Russia, India, the Chinese mainland and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) saw notable growth in buyer attendance, while many traditional markets, including France, South Korea, Canada, Germany and the U.S. also recorded doubledigit percentage increases. Some 48,000 buyers attended the Gifts & Premium Fair, while close to 16,000 buyers visited the Printing & Packaging Fair. “In the face of fast-changing consumer demands, businesses with a good grasp of market trends will have an advantage,” said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin

Chau. “Therefore, we commissioned an independent on-site survey at the Gifts & Premium Fair once again to gauge participants’ views on market prospects and product trends. The survey found that the gifts and premium industry is optimistic about the market this year – and more so than it was last year.” Of about 940 exhibitors and buyers polled, 93 per cent expected overall sales of their businesses to remain steady or improve this year. The proportion of respondents who expected increased sales was up 11 percentage points over last year. About 60 per cent of respondents expect production or sourcing costs to increase. More than half of respondents, however, did not expect to raise FOB selling prices or retail prices, suggesting that they will not transfer the increased cost to customers. “Among major export markets, most of the respondents (70 per cent) see Western Europe as having the best prospects in the next two years, followed by the Chinese mainland (64 per cent), Japan (63 per cent), North America (56 per cent), Hong Kong (56 per cent) and ASEAN countries (55 per cent),” explained Mr Chau. “We encourage industry players to capitalise on the opportunities available in these markets.” The survey also analysed product trends in the gifts and premium market. Thirteen per cent of respondents expect advertising gifts and premiums to have the strongest growth potential this year, followed by tech gifts (11 per cent), figurines and decorations (10 per cent) and toys and sporting goods (nine per cent). Show highlights The Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair

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welcomed 4,360 local and overseas exhibitors from 35 countries and regions, making it the world’s largest trade fair of its kind and an ideal platform for companies to present their new products. The highlight zone, the Hall of Fine Designs, attracted more than 130 renowned brands, including Italian brand Pininfarina, a first-time exhibitor that showcased an innovative patented inkless pen, which was well-received by buyers. In response to the latest product trends, the World of Camping & Outdoor Goods was launched at the fair, featuring more than 90 exhibitors from around the world. A number of other thematic zones were set up to facilitate marketing and sourcing, including the World of Gift Ideas, Licensed Gifts, Travel Goods & Umbrellas, Startup Zone and Tech Gifts. New products showcased at the Printing & Packaging Fair The Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair featured more than 480 exhibitors from six countries and regions, showcasing a broad spectrum of printing and packaging solutions. Highlights included the De Luxe Zone, which featured value-adding and high-end packaging solutions for various industries, helping businesses sharpen their competitive edge. Catering to the needs of different industries, the fair comprised the Innovative Retail Display Solutions, Green Printing & Packaging Solutions, Digital Printing & 3D Printing and Food & Beverage Packaging Solutions zones.

For further information about the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair visit hktdc.com/ hkgiftspremiumfair/

word count

word count David Fairhurst looks at the importance of focused category names for e-commerce Trying to optimise a website for organic search results can sometimes be likened to playing a game of cards for high stakes in which nobody will tell you the rules or what you forfeit if you lose. Google, especially, loves to come out with half-truths, innuendo and contradiction with its ever-changing policies for both organic and paid search programmes – it’s sometimes hard for even seasoned online marketing professionals to know who to believe. It’s no wonder the majority of new e-commerce retailers I speak to are nervous about online marketing, especially those who have been convinced by some of the shadier members of our profession that Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is some kind of voodoo that only those who have spent

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years in meditation (probably at the top of a mountain, cross-legged and surrounded by chanting monks) can perform. Whilst it’s true that working in the online marketing industry can be ‘challenging’ – read: mind-bendingly frustrating – at times, I’m here to tell you that SEO is common sense. Anybody can optimise and promote a website, assuming a willingness to learn and the time to do it. There. I’ve said it! No mystic ninja throwing star skills required. There is a quite huge caveat to the above statement when you are optimising an e-commerce website. You’ve got to think not like a retailer but like a consumer at every point in the optimisation and promotion process. A large portion of planning SEO strategy involves finding out what people are

searching for and want because there is no point in ranking for what nobody is looking for! Keyphrase research Categorising product content requires a logical approach and a definite focus on what people may search for. For SEO purposes, it’s important to cover all the keyphrases in any trading vertical that could possibly bring in useful traffic and may convert into a sale. I always try to get into the planning of an e-commerce website early if possible, before category structure has been decided. This ensures that the right categories can be created. Doing this gives the maximum potential for success in any on-going promotion for each website we work on. Planning category names requires

retail technology

keyphrase research to be undertaken. This way, you can name categories based on projected keyphrase traffic estimates and competitiveness data. In a way, a good online marketer can see the potential revenue and chances of success for any website before the website is created just by knowing the trading vertical, product ranges and the brands that are going to be stocked. All good keyphrase research tools are based on solid, real-world data. There are many paid tools out there on the web to help with research. However, Google AdWords still allows you to use its Keyphrase Research tool to find historical search data and competitiveness. You need a Google AdWords account for this. However, this is free. Method For promotion of a brand-new website on a brand-new domain, things are all a bit manual and involve getting lists of brands, product lines and maybe even products together before any research can be carried out. However, once you have this data, it’s fairly easy to start extrapolating it into an initial list you can put through keyphrase research tools in order to get an idea of search volumes and competitiveness. Getting an initial list together is important and can be made easier by using keyphrase

suggestion tools like https://goo.gl/KTva0P and even Google’s own suggestion tool, which is integrated into Google search. Just start typing, and you should get a list of suggestions to expand your initial lists. To streamline the process (with lessthan-optimal results), you can use Google AdWords’ own keyphrase suggestion tool https://goo.gl/oJ5HXX, this will suggest keyphrases that have been seen relating to your base set of keyphrases in AdWords campaigns previously. Capture these suggestions, and then you can proceed to competition and search volume research. This should give you not only an idea of optimal category names but also a solid foundation for creating content for those pages. You’re going to need this for your category pages in order to have any chance of ranking well for more competitive keyphrases. The whole aim of this research is to choose category names that reflect what you are offering and have a worthwhile amount of search volume. If you can choose names that also have lower-than-expected volumes of competition, then even better. This puts the new e-commerce website on the best possible footing going forward. Avoiding duplication Avoiding category duplication is important in e-commerce because having more than

one page within a website targeting the same set of keyphrases will lead to leaching of page effectiveness. Ideally, each page in the website should be optimised for one set of closely related keyphrases, and this set should not be reflected on any other page. This is important to remember when adding brands and product types into the mix. As an example, if you are selling “sports watches” and wish to categorise by gender (men’s, women’s, boys’, girls’) it makes sense to have a “men’s sports watches” category alongside sports watch categories for women, girls and boys and then segment by brand as well. But don’t be tempted to then be dragged into duplication by adding a separate ‘brands’ top-level category, which could dilute your optimisation efforts. With planning, your freshly created website category structure should be totally focused on keyphrases that are popular search terms and have a history of promoting conversions. David Fairhurst is head of creative online marketing at Intelligent Retail. David has been involved with SEO and web development since 1999 and has spoken at many different retail and SEO conferences, including Spring Fair and SES London. Call David on +44 (0)845 680 0126. giftfocus 143

How safe are your selfies? IIs your selfie lfi jjeopardising di i your security, i and d are there h really ll ways to controll your employers’ l liability costs? Insurance broker TH March answers your need-to-know questions… SELFIE SECURITY While social media can be a valuable tool for entertainment and communication, it can also open the door to crime. When you share pictures of your location or possessions on social media, you enable criminals to target you for criminal behaviour. None of your social media posts are ever truly private. And can you really trust all of your “friends” on social media networks? With that in mind, follow these tips to stay safe while enjoying social media: 1. Monitor what you share. A simple selfie can give away more information than you think. Wearing a certain logo or revealing certain landmarks in a picture can clue a criminal into your location. Don’t forget that considerations like age and gender must be protected too. Remember to only add people on social media whom you know and trust. 2. Turn off geolocation settings. Every smartphone has location settings imbedded. If you don’t turn these settings off, apps can then use your location data for their benefit. When you post from a certain location, not only does the app know where you are but it often shares your location as well. Protect yourself by denying apps from using your location for their advantage. 3. Understand that nothing on social media is private. If you wouldn’t share something in person, don’t share it on social media. Be especially cautious of posts that are public, such as on Twitter. Anyone can find you through a hashtag and then discover your profile in an instant. Always err on the side of caution and privacy when posting. 144 giftfocus

WAYS TO CONTROL YOUR EMPLOYERS’ LIABILITY COSTS We are often asked for advice regarding employers’ liability insurance, so here are a few tips that should help readers negotiate this often tricky subject. Be aware that insurers will likely analyse your claims history when underwriting your employers’ liability premium, so it follows that if you can help to control your claims, you could lower the price you have to pay. Q: What should I do if/when an accident happens? Investigate accidents immediately and thoroughly. Take corrective action to eliminate hazards, and be aware of fraud. Q: What should I do straight away? Report all claims to your insurer immediately. Alert the insurer to any serious, potentially serious or suspect claims. Frequently monitor the status of the claim, and communicate with the adjuster to resolve them as quickly as possible. Q: On return to work, how do I deal with an injured employee? Take an aggressive approach to providing light duty to all injured employees upon their release from treatment. Supervise light-duty employees to ensure their conformance with restrictions. Q: What about more serious cases? In serious cases that involve lost time, communicate with the loss adjuster to demonstrate your interest in returning the injured employee back to gainful employment. Q: Do I get colleagues involved? Set safety performance goals for those

with supervisory responsibility. Success in achieving safety goals should be used as one measure during performance appraisals. Q: What procedures should I put in place? Develop a written safety programme, and train employees in their responsibilities for safety. Incorporate a disciplinary policy into the programme that holds employees accountable for breaking rules and rewards them for correctly following safety procedures. Frequently communicate with employees, both formally and informally, regarding the importance of safety. And make safety an absolute priority. Lead from the front! Senior management must be visible in the safety effort and must support improvement. Q: What about keeping records? Evaluate accident history and near-misses at least monthly. Look for trends in experience. Take corrective action on the worst problems first. Talk to your insurance broker if you have any questions at all – they are there to help! Further information: TH March is a chartered firm of insurance brokers. Established in 1887, the company has offices in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Sevenoaks, as well as its National Administration Centre in Yelverton near Plymouth. To find out more, call +44 (0)1822 855 555 email [email protected], or visit the website thmarch.co.uk

fighting fakes and copies – how you can prevent it ACID CEO Dids Macdonald discusses how to take action against online infringers Globalisation and the internet have been best friends to those who take the fast track to market by counterfeiting. The exponential rise in online IP theft as the internet has grown to literally billions of sites is a critical issue worldwide and provides challenges rarely experienced before, especially for micro and small businesses. The time, expense and crippling effect that blatant online infringement has on businesses is increasingly difficult to manage, and this seemingly insidious and anonymous means of IP theft, with few deterrents, makes enforcement difficult if you don’t know where to turn. To put a scale on the growing threats of online infringement, according to OECD

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statistics, imports of counterfeit and pirated goods are worth nearly half a trillion dollars a year, or around 2.5 per cent of global imports, and many of the proceeds go to organised crime. In the UK, it is 4 per cent. This means there is even more of an issue nationally. Counterfeiters take advantage of our trust in trademarks and brand names to undermine economies and endanger lives. Fake products crop up in everything from handbags and perfumes to machine parts and chemicals. Footwear is the most copied item. Counterfeiting also produces knockoffs that endanger lives – auto parts that fail, pharmaceuticals that make people sick, toys that harm children, baby formula that provides no nourishment and medical

instruments that deliver false readings. Taking action against online infringers by adopting a do it yourself policy can put a huge strain on micro businesses because it is cost and time debilitating, made even more difficult by the fact that online platforms differ in their processes for take down, and their response time is also inconsistent. In one ACID case study, it took more than a month to achieve take down of infringing designs, and this has a negative effect on resources, especially on businesses that are under resourced and unfamiliar with what do to. However, it is worth checking each platform for its guidance and help on IP issues. As a result of pressure from campaigning, online platforms are becoming

increasingly accountable. ACID’s advice is to let the experts do it for you, and this is one of the main reasons for forming a partnership with Snapdragon IP to create an ACID Brand Enforcement Service (ABES), specially designed for cost- and time-effective management of online theft. This is endorsed by the UK Government and the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU). HOW CAN WE HELP? ACCESS HELP FROM THE EXPERTS: ACID members can access Snapdragon’s services through our website and at specially negotiated member discounts. GET YOUR IP HOUSE IN ORDER: Removal of links is only possible if you can prove your ownership of the intellectual property that is being infringed. This may include using your registered trademarks, registered design rights or, in some cases, your unregistered copyright. SPEED IS OF THE ESSENCE: The team, via the ACID Brand Enforcement Service, strives to begin the process of reporting these links within 24 hours of your commissioning it to do so, so you can be assured of swift action. ONGOING MONITORING ESSENTIAL: There is also an optional subscription choice for ongoing support at discounted rates. Monitoring of the internet for infringing items would be part of this package, together with take downs. EVIDENCE? WHAT DO I NEED TO PREPARE? Simple. Create an email containing all the links. Explain within the email what the issue is and which product(s) are being infringed. PROVE YOUR REGISTERED IP: Proof of the registered IP that is being infringed. This could be your registered trademark certificate or registered design certificate – or in the case of copyright, a URL link back to the original image on your website, whether a current or historic page. Sadly, unregistered design rights cannot be used to support claims at this time. To use the service you will need to provide the following; • Proof of your trading status/identity. For Limited Companies and Limited Liability Partnerships, this is your Certificate of Incorporation. For Sole Traders and Partnerships, this needs to be a digital copy of your passport. • A completed version of the downloadable Authorisation Request that will enable SnapDragon to do this work on your behalf. Download the file from the ACID website and reproduce the wording on to your company letterhead before returning it to Snapdragon IP. • Amazon has started a new service for rights owners with a registered trademark. That means you may be eligible to enrol your brand in the Amazon Brand Registry, which provides access to powerful tools including proprietary text and image search, predictive automation based on your reports of suspected intellectual property rights violations and increased authority over product listings with your brand name. ACID has not had any feedback on this service yet and would welcome any comments. Generally, search engines and online marketplaces are being held to account more, and there is increasingly much more Government pressure to make access to help with infringing material more accessible and easier to enforce. However, there is still a lot more to be done. ACID acid.uk.com

competition

WIN!

£500 RRP worth of stock from ClimeMET ClimeMET is a small, family-run business specialising in home and garden weather instruments. The company designs its one-ofa-kind range of products from its workshop in rural Suffolk, where there’s a team of outdoor enthusiasts including cyclists, surfers, dog walkers and kayakers. The new range of mounted mini weather dials is inspired by the beauty of the English coastlines, and is perfect for helping spread the company’s love of the great outdoors. The mini dials measure temperature, humidity, pressure, tides, time and moon phases.

To celebrate the great outdoors this summer, ClimeMET is giving away RRP £500 worth of stock, consisting of five ‘Surf’s Up’ mount boards and five ‘High Tide’ mount boards. These can be personalised with an engraved plaque original to your shop, such as My Heart Belongs in Croyde Bay to provide your customers with a special reminder of their summer holidays. For further information, please call +44 (0)1787 883 138 or email one of the team at [email protected]. Find the complete range at climemet.com

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question: ClimeMET weather dials can measure temperature and tides. Name any other weather parameters measured by the ClimeMET weather dials? The winner will receive £500 RRP worth of stock from ClimeMET. Enter online at giftfocus.com before the closing date of 31st August, 2018. Terms & conditions apply. giftfocus 149

Family Designs Distinctive cards that make a little thought go a long way

CARDS FROM SUMMER 2018 COLLECTION

Visit our website: www.familydesigns.co.uk or contact us: [email protected] | 07967776635

Be wise when you advertise Test a publisher’s statement of circulation. In today’s business climate you can’t afford not to. Our ABC Certificate provides accurate, independently verified circulation figures, giving you confidence in your advertising investment. If you want to reach 7,072* total average net circulation, then call Sharon Dengate on 01376 535 607 or email [email protected]

For more information visit www.abc.org.uk or email [email protected]

bookshelf We turn the page on some of the latest gift books to hit the shelves

PROSECCO IS ALWAYS THE ANSWER RRP: £6.99 Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781786854964 For years, prosecco has been waiting in the wings for the right time to make its sparkling appearance – and now it’s taking the world by storm and putting the fizz into all social occasions! This book, packed with recipes, facts, trivia and tips on hosting the perfect sparkling-wine soiree, will make you even more potty about prosecco. For further information, please visit summersdale.com

MIDDLE-CLASS HARDSHIPS: THE STRUGGLE IS REAL BY HATTIE HAMILTON AND DANNY CAMERON RRP: £7.99 Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781786852816 “I can’t believe I bought a toaster with no bagel setting!” “Irritating… just done a massive precleaner clean, and they’ve just texted to say they’re not coming!” Have you ever had to buy cava because the shop’s out of Champagne? Ever put too much wasabi on your sushi? Or maybe your latest lifestyle post on social media didn’t get enough likes? Well, the struggles are real, and you’re not alone. Cheekily illustrated throughout, this book showcases these and other first-world problems that might find you wincing in self-recognition. For further information, please visit summersdale.com 152 giftfocus

STARRY SKIES BY SAMANTHA CHAGOLLAN AND NILA AYE RRP: £10.99 Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781633225091 The follow-up to Many Moons, Starry Skies is a great introduction to space, astronomy and Earth science. With the same two-colour scheme of black and yellow from the first book, paired with unique illustrations, this book is a simple, elegant and timeless addition to any child’s library. Each spread features one of the 14 constellations, such as Pegasus, Hercules and Leo, presented on a shiny surface. The hands-on, tactile design of the book provides an interactive element that’s sure to engage young readers and help them learn. For further information, please visit quartoknows.com

FUZZY DINOSAURS AND PREHISTORIC CREATURES ILLUSTRATED BY PAPIO PRESS RRP: £8.99 Format: Paperback ISBN: 9781786031648 Explore seven different categories of dinosaurs in Fuzzy Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Creatures. Colour in the different creatures with these unique touchand-feel books! The raised edges of the creatures add a sensory element while colouring in the page. The best-loved and most spectacular animals and dinosaurs are featured; you’ll meet plant-eaters, tigers and birds of prey, all the while learning interesting facts about them. At the back, children will not only find out even more facts but also an atlas for the animals and a timeline for the dinosaurs. In a Top Trump-like format, the facts on the left of the colour charts have the creatures’ skills listed. For the dinosaurs, their length is also recorded, giving kids a reference to the magnitude of the creatures that once roamed the earth. For further information, visit quartoknows.com

objects of beauty co-founders Chris McShane (left) and Ross Taylor (right)

The first 18 months of business have been a whirlwind of success for The Curious Department co-founder Chris McShane our home! means o ou ur h ome ome me! e! So S I think thi h nkk this this his naturally hi naatu natu t rall rallllyy me ra mean ans an ns our ou ur designs different desi de signss are are a bi bitt di diffe ffere rent nt to to what’s what wh at’s ’s out out there there already. alre al r ad ady. y. But But we we also also always alw lway ayss have have a little lit ittl tlee twist twis tw istt make designs memorable. to m akee ou ak ourr de desi sign gnss me memo mora rabl ble. e.

What made you decide to start up The Curious Department? Both Ross and I became homeowners a few years ago, and in the process of decorating and adding our own styles to our places, we realised there was such a gap in the market in interesting and curious homewares – affordable items that were not massproduced beyond any semblance of being special. That’s when The Curious Department was born really, that moment when we sought to design and produce homewares that reflected our passions and personalities but could also be appreciated by the budgetconscious and interior Instagrammers alike. How would you describe your product offering? Nature-inspired homewares with a small dose of high drama. Everything is designed by us and made using British materials and expertise. Our first collection, Metamorphosis, was an exploration of insects and creepy crawlies, transforming them into objects of beauty with our fine bone china range and limited-edition art prints. Our second collection, Elemental, explores the relationship between flora and fauna and is seen on our greeting cards and stationery, where the creature cameos have been designed using elements from the background designs they sit on. What makes your products stand out in the home accessories market? We never set out to be part of any trend or design movement; we just design from our hearts and what we think looks good. And the true test is whether we’d have them in 154 giftfocus

What challenges What cha hall llen enge ges have ha ave you you o overcome verc ve rcom omee as a new business? As a passion business, we decided to fund it ourselves. We didn’t want to go down the route of investors or have anyone else be part of our journey just yet. It was key to us that it was a fun and enjoyable experience, and the pressures of owing money or having expectations just wasn’t for us. us Once we released our first few parts of the Metamorphosis collection, we knew we needed the funds to expand. So we figured the best way to validate our designs with the masses, and not shoulder huge debts in upfront production costs, was to embark on a pre-order campaign using Kickstarter. This way, we used their huge platform to garner interest in the UK and worldwide and to see whether there were enough likeminded quirky and curious individuals who’d appreciate our designs and were willing to invite us into their homes! And it worked. We ended up doubling our target, generating nearly £10,000 in preorders in a month. How do you market your business? Do you attend any trade shows? So far we’ve only done Top Drawer and the London Stationery Show, which have been great for us, and we’ve picked up some fantastic stockists. But I’d say our No. 1 marketing tool is Instagram. We worked with influencers and bloggers from day one – our first blog feature was with the iconic Kate Watson-Smyth, who is now a best-selling author – and it’s been a great and authentic way of building interest, as well as a network of some amazingly talented people who’ve ended up becoming firm friends. You were recently one of 12 winners at the London Stationery Show LaunchPad competition – please tell us a bit about that.

Our O ur stationery stat st atio tione neery range raan ngee iiss on only nly ly a ffew ew m months on nth ths hs old ol d an aand d pretty p ettyy ssmall pr malll in ma n co ccomparison mpar mp aris ison on tto o ma many ny other of tthe he o ther aapplicants, th pplilica pp cant nts, s, so so we rreally eallllyy didn’t ea didn di dn’t ’t think Needless thin th inkk we’d we’d gget et sselected. elec el ecte ted. d. N eedl ee dles esss to ssay, ay,, ay we w eree ov er over erjo joye yed d to have hav avee made made the the final finall were overjoyed wee ha 12!! Th 12 Thee sh show ow iitself tsel ts elff wa wass great, grea gr eat, t, aand nd w had d the pleasure of sharing a co ccorner rnerr with Type T pe Ty And Story, Batch Works and High Meadows Stationery, who are hugely talented guys all around! Are there any plans to evolve your product offering? We spend every waking hour dreaming up designs and product extensions. There’s just never enough time in the day! We’re currently juggling the imminent launch of our new luxury cushion collection with an exciting jewellery collaboration. We’ve looked into fabrics, wallpapers and lampshades and other home interior staples too, and if someone were able to clone us to help get it all done, that would be super great! What has been the highlight moment for the business so far? It’s been such a fantastic ride these past 18 months. I’d say the highlight is seeing our designs styled and coveted by real customers on Instagram every day. It’s such an amazing feeling to see that we achieved what we set out to do: to provide homewares people actually want and love. What are your hopes for the future? We’d absolutely love to open up our own physical store one day, mixing our own curious items with a hand-picked range of other homewares from upcoming British talent.

For more information, email [email protected] or visit thecuriousdepartment.com