Independent retailers will stock more adventure-inspired accessories, opulent vintage pieces, natural goods and playful nostalgic items this year, according to the 2025 forecast from online wholesale marketplace Faire.
Faire's newly-released report examined thousands of product searches from the independent retailers using the platform across the world to identify the products that are expected to see a surge in demand in 2025 and the four consumer trends behind their growing appeal:
Victorian noir
It found a growing appetite for bold, indulgent décor and accessories among Faire's retailers, influenced by period dramas and the rejection of pared-back minimalism, was contributing to a rise in searches for shop owners looking for 'burgundy', 'mirrors', and 'brocade' on the platform.
Posted: 31 March 2025
Following this year's successful events, The Source trade show and Expowest Cornwall – two of the UK's leading events for the food, drink, and hospitality sector – have announced the 2026 dates.
And for a sector that's hungry for high-quality events, there's more good news: a new show will launch in 2026.
Held at Westpoint Exeter, The Source trade show once again proved to be an unmissable event for industry professionals. The show featured more than 200 diverse exhibitors, from local producers to renowned brands, offering visitors an unrivalled range of products and services, invaluable networking opportunities, and a unique insight into the latest trends and innovations.
Posted: 31 March 2025
Annual figures released by the British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) and Circana, have revealed that toys under £15 continue to rise in popularity in today's challenging economic climate.
Officially unveiled at Toy Fair at Olympia London, the latest statistics show that 47 percent of the UK toy market in 2024 was dominated by sales under £15, which equated to 80 percent units overall. Meanwhile, Pocket Money toys costing less than £10 took up 28 percent of market share.
These are predominantly made up of classic lines like Paw Patrol Vehicles and Pup from Spin Master Toys, Dobble from Asmodee, and Sea Monkeys from Bandai. The increasing popularity of Collectibles was important for driving sales of Pocket Money toys throughout the year, with the overall Collectibles sector generating 1 in 5 toy sales last year, with an average price of £7.59.
Posted: 24 March 2025
Stationery lovers, get ready — National Stationery Week 2025 is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever! With an incredible line-up of sponsors and a renewed passion for celebrating the joy of pen and paper, this year's event is set to inspire, engage, and spread the stationery love far and wide. So, write, doodle, and share your love for stationery!
Posted: 20 March 2025
As the June 2025 deadline for the European Accessibility Act approaches, Nexer Digital has launched a new campaign, I Matter Too, to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive online experiences.
The campaign aims to encourage online retailers to act now and embrace digital accessibility as a core part of their strategy, not just to meet legal requirements but to go beyond compliance and deliver true inclusivity.
I Matter Too sheds light on the barriers faced by people with disabilities in accessing digital services, apps, and platforms, tools that have become essential to daily life.
The campaign video, central to the initiative, highlights real stories from individuals who have struggled with inaccessible technologies and services.
Posted: 17 March 2025
Returning to Cranmore Park on 20th May 2025, INDX Gift Food promises visitors a world of culinary delight. As part of the UK's busiest retail trade show calendar, INDX Gift Food is open to all retailers, and brought to market by AIS, the UK's top buying, services, and event group. The one-day pop-up show is expertly curated to ensure visiting retailers find an inspiring product showcase from a selection of leading exhibitors – handpicked to drive commercial success. Led by market trends and industry insight, the 2025 show will bring together pickles and preserves, drink gifts, savoury snacks, sweet confections, and festive bakes, and attendees can look forward to product launches, exclusives, demos, tastings, and special guest appearances.
Posted: 12 March 2025
Joe Davies has been appointed by Star Link Global Group as exclusive UK distributor for the renowned US artist Gus Fink Studios brand of licensed plush, resin and accessories.
A full launch collection, including a large selection of on trend plush debuted at NEC Spring Fair in February, featuring some of Gus Finks most loved characters, such as Numb Bunny, Agony Ann, Skellbo, Grim the Stitchy Bear and Devil Doo.
Hailing from Pennsylvania Gus Fink has a unique talent of bringing together the weird and wonderful, with a touch of darkness, combining his art with a playful mindfulness and very unique style.
The range will be available to order from the Manchester-based importer at the NEC and consists of plush toys, bag clips, key rings and resin figures. Each item is collectable, with swing labels telling the story of each character.
Posted: 10 March 2025
British walking stick specialist Classic Canes has announced a forthcoming change of ownership. From 1st June 2025, Classic Canes will be owned by its long-term supplier, Gastrock of Germany.
Classic Canes' managing director and co-owner Charlotte Gillan said, "My parents and I are delighted to have accepted an offer for Classic Canes from our long-term suppliers and close personal friends, the Gastrock family of Germany. Hans and Elke Gastrock and their children, Peter and Sara, share our commitment to excellence in design and quality and they are the perfect people to supply our customers in Great Britain and beyond."
Gastrock was established in 1868 and has passed through many generations of the same family. The company manufactures high quality wooden walking sticks in Germany to this day and is also an established international wholesaler.
Posted: 4 March 2025
This year marks a significant milestone as The English Soap Company's parent company celebrates 25 years of soap making.
The English Soap Company celebrates this momentous occasion, having grown into a business admired for being family-run and its dedication to quality, sustainability, and beautiful design.
What began with a single bar of soap has flourished into an expansive range of luxurious products, including hand creams, soy wax candles, and more.
Each item is crafted with care on the company's tranquil Sussex farm, reflecting its unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence. Proudly made in England, the products combine high quality ingredients with timeless elegance, making them perfect for gifting or everyday indulgence.
Posted: 3 March 2025
The INDX Toys show will return to West Midlands event venue, Cranmore Park on 2-3 September 2025.
Save the date and get ready to explore an inclusive product showcase, perfect for a variety of retail spaces and carefully crafted to drive commercial success.
The only dedicated toy industry trade show taking place in Autumn 2025, this two-day show is an unmissable opportunity to secure stock for Christmas and preview new launch products for 2026.
Register today and be inspired by an expertly curated brand showcase featuring market leading suppliers, the hottest new toys and games, the latest licensed product ranges, and unique kid and adult gifts.
Posted: 28 February 2025
