Gift Focus inc Attire Accessories - July/August 2020

17 NEWS & EVENTS On with the show HARROGATE FASHION WEEK CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC After consultation with exhibitors Harrogate Fashion Week (HFW) organisers has postponed the July show and is set to concentrate on having a successful event next season. Organisers Sarah and Wendy commented, “It has been a difficult decision and one that has not been taken lightly as HFW wants to support the fashion industry through these difficult times. For the brands to invest in shows when it is going to be an extremely short and difficult season, with some shops not wanting to buy or attend, plus the fact that to date the government have not said it is safe to hold trade shows, made us come to the sad conclusion to miss a season. “We would like to thank everyone including the many trade publications for their continued support and we will be back bigger and stronger next year.” HFW has confirmed that the next edition for AW2021 is planned for Sunday 31 st January and Monday 1 st February. For further information email wendy@harrogatefashionweek.com or call on 01423 623 701 Trade show updates from home and abroad Top Drawer launches CONNECTED Top Drawer announces the launch of CONNECTED, its new initiative to bring the design and retail community even closer together. CONNECTED will act as a platfrom for the community to share industry insights, stimulate connections and open dialogue through a comprehensive programme of digital content and networking. Presented by some of the industry’s best, this will include webinars, product launches, blogs and polls created both to unite and to inspire suppliers and buyers. Kicking off CONNECTED in May, Google Digital Garage shared their ideas on “How to design a standout Digital Marketing Strategy”, with a focus on how small creative businesses can use digital marketing channels to build a successful strategy to help navigate this uncertain and ever-changing time. Show Director, Alejandra Campos, comments, “Top Drawer has always been about much more than just the buying and selling, it is a place for our design and retail community to unite. These opportunities for genuine connection and shared learning have never been more important and, through CONNECTED, we are committed to helping our community access the resources, information and support they need to succeed.” For more information visit www.topdrawer.co.uk or to register for this webinar, please visit www.topdrawer.co.uk/connected Reed Exhibitions cancels International Jewel lery London Reed Exhibitions has announced that International Jewellery London (IJL) will be cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduled to take place at Alexandra Palace, London, from 13-15 September 2020, Reed is following UK government guidelines and has had comprehensive discussions with its customers, public health authorities and partner organisations. The exhibition provider said in a statement, “We do not believe that we are in a position to host a large scale gathering for the industry in September without compromising the key valuable elements of IJL. “The health and safety of our exhibitors, visitors, partners and staff is our number one priority. Therefore, after careful consideration, we feel it is in everyone’s best interests not to go ahead with this year’s event and wanted to give everyone involved as much notice as possible. “IJL has 65 years of heritage that we look to protect and maintain during this unprecedented time. For now, and in recognition of the challenging time our industry has to face, both personally and professionally, we will continue to collaborate with exhibitors and visitors to do all we can to support the global jewellery industry during this difficult period. We are working out these details now and will inform everyone at the relevant and appropriate times.” 