59 SCOTLAND TRADE FAIR SPRING PREVIEW Independent retailers across Scotland are generally reporting solid sales for 2024 following a summer of plentiful visitors. Despite soggy weather and challenging economic times, sales of gifts, homewares, jewellery and clothing was up on 2023. Against this backdrop, Scotland’s Trade Fair is seeing a healthy interest in stands with exhibitors booking from around the UK. Taking place at the SEC in Glasgow from 19-21 Jan 2025, this Show allows buyers from far and wide to come and restock their shelves, source and plan for the coming year, and reconnect with suppliers. Scottish brands continue to be popular, with an emphasis on quality and value for money. Ones to look out for at the 2025 Show are Eribe, Dook of Edinburgh, Cath Waters, Ocean Plastic Pots, Scottish Fine Soaps, Neon Magpie, Scott’s Apothecary and mclaggan & co. Love the launch First stop for many buyers is the Launch Gallery in the centre of the show, where this year they will be inspired by products from new young companies such as Woolkind, Malmo Home, The Wee Engraving Co, Hilary Janes Keyes knitwear, Brilliantly Brave cards and Anke Rainbow Art & Jewellery. For those looking for more mainstream products, suppliers such as Sea Gems, Joya, Upper Canada, Xystos, Paper Sheep, AC Jade, Aether & Nox, Gold Trip and Tipperary will have large stands highlighting their new ranges for 2025. Crafted with style Artisan products are housed in the Craft Gallery with its array of artistic creators such as Agate and Ayre accessories, BAKKA, Ruby Jones jewellery, Orraman Leather, Lolla Mac jewellery Rosana Exposito sustainable fashion and Freya Mabel Makes tapestries. Helen Crawford from The Old School in Beauly said: “Footfall at our shop has grown year on year and this year is no different. It is particularly noticeable and pleasing how many returning customers tell us a visit to our shop is a must-do for them on every visit to the Highlands. Along with loyal local customers we have had a good year and look forward to re-stocking at the Show. It is an absolute ‘must attend’ event where we will source new suppliers and re-connect with existing ones.” Talking Shop Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring offers more than just sourcing and buying, it’s about learning too. With a rich programme of panel discussions, educational talks and practical masterclasses on all aspects of retailing from digital to tourist updates, and sustainability tips to retail trends, this is the place to learn how to improve your business and retail skills and be inspired by highly acclaimed experts. The Best Product Awards, sponsored by The Giftware Association, will take on a new format this year with a dazzling display of winners in the centre of the show. Show Director Mark Saunders said: “We recognise how key this Show is for retailers across, not just Scotland but the rest of the UK and overseas, to come and look, feel and discover products that will increase their sales. By attending you can be assured you’ll be ahead of your competitors in sourcing new ranges and new stock for the coming year. Ensure this date is firmly in your diary.” A learning experience Scotland remains strong for independent retail with an increase in sales this year. Hear more about Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring IN BRIEF: Who: Scotland Trade Fair Spring, www.scotlandstradefairs.com Where: SEC, Glasgow When: 19-21 January, 2025
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