On with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad Hyve announces cancellations of connections programme Connect Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee, owned by Hyve Group, the UK’s leading creator of global events and retail shows, has announced that its connections programme Connect will not be running in 2024, while the business collaborates with the industry and key partners to create better shows and experiences for the future. Nicola Meadows, Divisional Managing Director, Hyve Group says, “I would like to thank our exhibitors for reaching out to us with their candid feedback on this year’s Autumn Fair. As a business, our purpose is to help our customers to succeed by helping them meet with new and existing buyers. We understand better than most that face to face is the best way to make meaningful business connections, discover new products, and build relationships in the world of retail. We don’t take our responsibility - to help this community thrive - lightly. We know how important these shows are to the sector, much of which is made up of independent businesses which are the pride of the nation. “I recognise that, during what are increasingly challenging times for everyone in retail, the introduction of Connect did not add value in the way we expected it to. Whilst for most the Autumn Fair was successful and produced great outcomes, it is clear that Connect became a distraction and cause of disruption. Up to now, our shows have been highly reliant on an analogue format which has remained the same for decades. We introduced Connect with the aim of improving how buyers and sellers do business at our events in a way which makes the most of time and resources. We hold our hands up that we fell short on executing this at Autumn Fair. For that reason, we will not be running Connect in 2024 at Spring Fair, Autumn Fair or Glee. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers again for their patience during this time and the continued support of these historic shows. We have listened to what they have to say, and we care about getting this right.” Looking ahead, Meadows says there is an opportunity to provide the industry with a considerably better show which delivers increased return on investment through the smart use of data and technology. Committed to innovating and finding ways to improve the show while making an increased effort to keep exhibitors and visitors at the heart of its decision making, they have announced the introduction of working groups to help shape the future of the shows. Exhibitors and buyers are invited to get involved to share their views and opinions by emailing SpringAutumnFairMarketing@hyve.group. Focusing on the future of their retail portfolio beyond 2024, Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee are committed to creating meaningful experiences and on delivering quality buyers to the shows. Exhibitors have been contacted with full details on the adjustments to fees and contract details relating to both Spring and Autumn Fair 2024. For further information on Pure London please visit www.purelondon.com. SOURCE HOME & GIFT GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH The only international sourcing platform of its kind, Source Home & Gift, continues to go from strength to strength with over 430 exhibitors expected to be at its third edition from 4th – 7th February 2024 at NEC Birmingham. Uniting global manufacturers and artisan makers who all pride themselves on responsible manufacturing and sustainable production, with key retailers, brands, and contractors, Source Home & Gift increases in size by 25% with producers from UK, China, India, Philippines, Nepal and many more showcasing their wares. Debuting at the show will be pavilions from Senegal and Ghana. Suzanne Ellingham, Director of Sourcing says, “We are changing the perception of sourcing in the UK, doubling down on quality products and championing not only the largescale global manufacturers but also the makers and social enterprises that are really making a difference to communities around the work. I continue to be blown away by the work people are doing and some of the incredible stories behind the products. Buying from these makers has an enormous impact on their lives. “At the opposite end of the scale, we’re also extremely proud to be showcasing the great manufacturing and products coming out of specialist regions across China such as the Fujain region – Dehua is the birthplace of Chinese ceramic culture and the quality and craftsmanship is second to none.” Source Home & Gift brings the world to the UK as an easier, cheaper, and more effective destination to discover what’s trending, and develop and source new materials and products. All exhibitors are required to have had a recent audit from Sedex or a recognisable audit institution giving buyers the confidence that they will meet suppliers that have responsible business practices. The show features eight sectors including Homewares, Toys, Packaging, Stationery & Greetings, Gifts, Furniture, Textiles, and Technology & Services. With a content stage dedicated to presenting and discussing the latest trends and topics in responsible and sustainable manufacturing from internationally renowned industry professionals, Source Home & Gift is the must-attend event for the retail community. The last show in September was attended by high level personnel from leading retailers and brands including Sainsburys, Dunelm, Haskins Garden Centre, Blue Diamond, Funky Pigeon, M&M, Matalan, Disney, Morrisons, M&S, Next, Costcutter, AIS, Alzheimers Society, Amazon, B&Q, and Card Factory. Talking about his experience at the show, Mike Dickens, Senior Program Manager, Amazon said, “Source Home & Gift is a great chance to meet lots of potential domestic and international suppliers in one place. Early face-to-face interactions with suppliers give you a good opportunity to build trust and rapport before getting into business together.” 19 NEWS & EVENTS
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