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4 In this issue REGULARS 9 Industry news All the latest from the world of gifts 14 On with the show Trade fair dates and show news 17 Brand spanking new Latest launches and brand-new products 23 Bookstand The latest releases in gift books FEATURES 39 Putting pen to paper Stunning stationery items 43 The best of British We round-up the best products made in Britain 46 Smelling of roses Candles and home fragrances to stock 50 Father focus Cater to the key sales opportunity that is Father’s Day 52 Wining and dining Food and drink gift products 39 March/April 2025 FOCUS ON 33 Makasi Imports Jake Moizer, Marketing & E-Commerce Manager, Boxer Gifts, shares how the company is dedicated to producing great gifts that put a smile on the face of the receiver 55 Up & Coming Elliot Webb, CEO and Founder of Urban Farm-It, aims to be a leader in the future of food, helping people achieve food security. And he’s starting with the bestselling Grow Your Own food range… 52 43 33
5 CONTENTS SHOWS 24 Artisan Made ArtisanMadeuk stands out as an event created by artists and makers, for artists and makers. Here’s all you need to know ahead of the 2025 show! 27 INDX Food & Gift Returning to Cranmore Park on 20 May 2025, INDX Gift Food promises visitors a world of culinary delight 28 Farm Shop & Deli Get ready for the 2025 Farm Shop & Deli Show, where innovation, inspiration and expertise come together in one place 27 BUSINESS ADVICE 69 Harnessing gift cards Dr. Hannah Shimko, Director General, Gift Card and Voucher Association (GCVA), shares how, in today’s fiercely competitive market, customer loyalty is a precious commodity, and gift cards are an effective took 60 The pyramid scheme Visual Merchandising Consultant, Debbie Flowerday discusses how to dress a window using the pyramid scheme. Here’s what we learnt... 64 ACID Fighting copying in the giftware industry: The role of ACID and the case of Temu 67 FSB The Employment Bill will do more harm than good, says Tina McKenzie, FSB Policy Chair 28 55 24 50
7 EDITOR’S LETTER 46 On the cover St Eval was born in the Cornish countryside. From a clifftop home in North Cornwall, the company works with nature to collect fragrances and turn them into wildly scented candles. Each one is a journey, an experience, a landscape the company loves. www.st-eval.com Innovative and inspiring I always find writing the March/April issue of Gift Focus invigorating. Fresh from exploring the aisles of Spring Fair, I’m inspired by our industry’s endless creativity, innovation, and resilience. This year, what stood out most was the sheer vibrancy of the products – each one crafted with care, foresight, and passion. It’s inspiring to see how our industry continuously evolves, never resting on its laurels but always pushing forward and staying ahead of the curve. Independent retail has always had a heartbeat that mass brands often lack. In the face of ongoing challenges – Brexit, COVID-19, the cost-of-living crisis, to name a few – this heartbeat has only grown stronger, more resilient, and more united. Spring Fair reaffirmed what we already knew: our industry can weather any storm and emerge even stronger. In this issue, we spotlight a host of brands that have stood the test of time, bringing you a stunning array of giftware. With Father’s Day on the horizon, we’ve curated a selection of must-have products to maximize this key sales opportunity. Our feature on candles and home fragrance explores products perfect for both self-purchase and gifting. We also turn our attention to stationery, British-made goods, and gourmet food and drink gifts. It’s a stellar lineup, complemented by the latest industry news, business insights, and exciting new product launches. We hope you enjoy the issue! Louise Prance Editor Louise DESIGN +44 (0)1376 535 616 artwork@giftfocus.com ACCOUNTS +44 (0)1376 535 616 accounts@giftfocus.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis +44 (0)1376 535 602 sarah.ellis@giftfocus.com Gift Focus and Attire Accessories are solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. 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. ISSN 1758-0897 @giftfocus @giftfocusmag @gift_focus Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated with and supporters of: ADVERTISING Account Manager Loretta Smith +44(0)1376 538 495 loretta.smith @giftfocus.com EDITORIAL Editor Louise Prance +44 (0)1376 514 000 louise.prance@giftfocus.com 50 Louise Prance, Editor 45
Industry news GUS FINK STUDIOS APPOINTS JOE DAVIES AS UK DISTRIBUTOR 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 Manchesterbased 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. Dana Davies, CEO of Star Link Global commented, “Gus Fink is hugely popular and successful in the US, and we have been looking for some time for the right distributor to take the brand forward into the UK. The range is perfect for independent retailers and with their great reputation for service and experience with the independent gift trade, Joe Davies is the perfect partner for us.” Paul Hooker, Managing Director at Joe Davies commented, “We are delighted to be representing Gus Fink Studios, and our customers will love the fun plush collection, it’s a great impulse purchase, is very collectable and right on trend for the UK market.” For all enquiries regarding Gus Fink Studios at Joe Davies or to place orders please contact Joe Davies on +44 (0)161 975 6300 or visit www.joedavies.co.uk Catch up on all the latest in our news round up LICENSED TOYS AND BUILDING SETS LED THE WAY IN 2024 The British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) and Circana presented their annual industry insights at London’s Toy Fair. Held at Olympia London from the 21st to 23rd January 2025, unveiling a whole host of positive trends gleaned from the previous 12 months’ sector-wide performance. While the UK economy may have continued to present a challenging picture during 2024, figures released by Circana show that the UK toy market remained resilient, generating £3.4billion in overall sales, which was bolstered by a surge of Christmas sales (up 51 percent) in the week leading up to Christmas. While sales in 2024 may have been down by 3.7 percent, several toy categories achieved growth in 2024, adding to the positive trajectory. The Building Sets Super Category was up by 6 percent, which resulted in it achieving the highest category share of the toy market last year, driven by The LEGO® Group performance, while Vehicles and Soft Toys also outperformed the market. Vehicles have been on the rise in the last 12 months, including the popular Monster Jam from Spin Master Toys, which has outperformed total Vehicle growth. Boosted by top toy blockbuster movies, sports, and video games, Licensed toys continued to play a key role in shaping market dynamics during 2024. Licensed toys occupy 35 percent of overall total market share, up by 3 percent, thanks to the likes of Lilo & Stitch, UEFA, Despicable Me/Minions, Bluey and Sonic. As for the Top Properties spots, Star Wars topped the list followed by Pokemon and Marvel. Meanwhile, Lilo & Stitch led the Top Gaining Properties list followed by LEGO Botanicals and LEGO Icons. Retailing at £8.57, the Squishmallows Plush 8” Assortment retained its position as the top-selling item in 2024 for the second-year-running. This highlights the enduring appeal of soft toys for UK consumers and emphasises the importance of accessible pricing within the toy market. The latest figures also show that MrBeast Lab, the Wicked Movie, Unicorn Academy and Squish-a-longs to name a few, were among the top new launches within the total market. The Wicked Movie was also highlighted as gaining new property traction, thanks to the widespread appeal and success of the recent hit movie. www.toyfair.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS 9
CONSUMER BRANDS TAKES UP NEW PREMISES Morphy Richards licensee Consumer Brands is taking up new premises at Whittle Court, in Hanley, investing a six-figure sum into refurbishing the building. The headquarters will be home to the company’s sales & marketing teams, alongside customer service staff. In August 2023, Consumer Brands Limited became the official licensee of Morphy Richards and is currently situated at the Smithfield Works in Hanley. A warehouse facility and distribution centre is located in Chesterfield as well as a testing site in Leeds. Now 18 months later, Consumer Brands has reaffirmed its commitment to Stoke-on-Trent, by taking on new headquarters which will lead to a local recruitment drive. Some employees from Chesterfield and Leeds will also be moving to Stoke-on-Trent once the new base opens in April. Consumer Brands has also said it is hoping to increase employee numbers from 31 to 53 this year. Managing Director Rob Wileman said: “We are keen to stay within Stoke-on-Trent. The quality of staff that we have in the city is excellent and we didn’t want to lose them by moving away. The city also represents great value for money.’’ Rob added: “The Morphy Richards brand is instantly recognisable, and we think it is great for Stoke-on-Trent to have it here.” Consumer Brands will be moving into space totalling 7,400 sq ft, which was formerly the headquarters of social housing and supported accommodation provider Brighter Futures. The units have been sold to NLC Group of Companies, which Consumer Brands is part of, by property company Sandyford Properties. www.morphyrichards.co.uk THE GIFTWARE ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION The Giftware Association (GA) announces Sarah Ward has stepped down as CEO, creating a pivotal opportunity to move the association forward. Tom Jones, CEO of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), will step in as interim CEO, ensuring continuity and supporting the GA’s mission to serve its members during this critical time. The giftware industry is undergoing significant change, with new opportunities and challenges emerging daily. At this critical juncture, the GA remains committed to its mission of providing resources, connections, and advocacy to help members thrive in a competitive global marketplace. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, the GA aims to drive growth and continued success for the industry and its members. The GA would like to extend its gratitude to Sarah for her leadership and the valuable contributions during her time as CEO. Tom Jones has a wealth of experience in supporting trade associations. His strategic vision and expertise in the sector will ensure that the GA continues to deliver on its mission while navigating this important transition. Tom Jones, Interim CEO The Giftware Association: “I am honoured to step into the role. The industry faces numerous challenges, but I am confident that with the Gift Association’s renewed focus on inclusivity and innovation, we can continue to support our members and ensure that the association remains at the forefront of the giftware sector. I look forward to working alongside the Board and our members to ensure the ongoing success of the Giftware Association.” Mark Jones, Chair of The Giftware Association: “We are incredibly grateful to Sarah for her leadership and the significant contributions she has made to the Giftware Association. As we move forward, we are excited to have Tom step in as interim CEO. His extensive experience and leadership within trade associations will ensure a smooth transition and continued focus on our strategic goals. We remain committed to our mission of supporting the giftware sector, driving growth, and enhancing inclusivity as we evolve with the changing industry landscape.” As part of the ongoing evolution of the GA, the association is focused on enhancing its support for members by strengthening relationships with importers, wholesalers, and retailers. The GA’s new strategic vision is designed to foster innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability across the sector, positioning the association to better serve its members and support the growth of the giftware industry. “As we face a rapidly changing world, the mission and vision of The Giftware Association remain central to our work,” says Tom. “It is crucial that we support our members in navigating these challenges, and I am committed to ensuring that we continue to deliver valuable resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities,” he continues. www.giftwareassociation.org TOYS UNDER £15 ACCOUNT FOR ALMOST HALF OF UK SALES IN 2024 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. Commenting on the key report findings and insights, Kerri Atherton, Head of Public Affairs at the BTHA, said: “With consumers still being budget-conscious, the latest statistics show there is high demand for a wide range of smaller, more affordable options on the market. “We look forward to seeing how Collectibles perform this year, particularly the rise of Micro Collectibles, as we have seen a lot of excitement for these tiny toys that offer a significant cute factor minus the hefty price tag.” Melissa Symonds, Executive Director UK Toys at Circana added: “Collectibles continue to evolve into different categories, areas and sizes such as Micro Collectibles. Over the past year, these segments have outperformed the market, and we anticipate this trend of innovation to accelerate even further.” www.toyfair.co.uk 10
WIDDOP & CO LAUNCHES NEW PLUSH CUDDLY TOYS AND GIFT RANGE Home and gifting company, Widdop & Co, has announced the launch of its latest product range: Softies, a collection of plush cuddly toys and gifts designed to bring joy to children and adults alike. The new line features charming characters from teddies to turtles, bunnies to brown foxes. Developed by Widdop & Co.’s CEO, Stephen Illingworth, the collection was inspired by the children of the company’s team, including Stephen’s own kids. He said: “This range is close to my heart. The names of these cuddly companions, like Talia and Hudson, were lovingly chosen thanks to our team’s children and my own family. It’s a celebration of the creativity and innocence that kids bring into our lives.” Stephen, alongside his brother and Widdop & Co. Managing Director Dan, have both worked tirelessly to expand the company’s portfolio of gifts to now include plush and soft toys while staying true to the firm’s heritage. “As a family business, we’ve always been about creating products that capture connection and warmth,” said Dan. “The Softies range perfectly embodies that spirit. These toys are not just adorable – they’re designed to be cherished companions for years to come.” According to market research from Statista, revenue in the UK Dolls & Stuffed Toys market is projected to reach £880 million in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 4.09 percent expected from 2025 to 2029. Softies is perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand, emerging as a must-have for retailers across the UK. Each cuddly toy is made from soft-touch, highquality fabrics that are safe for all ages. Featuring a wide variety of timeless character designs and cuddly animals, Softies caters to a broad customer base, from children to adults seeking comfort in plush toys and gifts – a trend gaining momentum in today’s market. The collection also taps into the growing demand for collectible characters, offering a playful and comforting range that resonates with all ages. Each character is presented in a gift box designed to resemble a charming house, complete with white detailing and branded elements that enhance the gift-giving experience. With competitive pricing, excellent quality, and reliable supply, Softies is the ideal partner for gift shops, toy stores, and boutiques aiming to enhance their product offerings. Available to trade customers, this collection is poised to deliver consistent retail success, combining customer appeal with strong business value for retailers nationwide. The Softies collection is now available for trade customers to order from www.widdop.co.uk/shop-by-brand/softies HOUSE OF PHAEDRA OPENS A NEW SHOPPING EXPERIENCE House of Phaedra is a new shopping experiencing in the historic Antelope Walk, Dorchester, Dorset. “Take your senses on a journey around our beautiful store, House of Phaedra. A shop dedicated to beautiful natural home fragrance and stunning lifestyle pieces, carefully curated to work in harmony,” says Phaedra Radestock, Founder. “We wanted to create a space where our beautiful candles play the leading role in a beautiful lifestyle store, where home fragrance is the pivotal element for stunning interiors. Warm cosy scents accentuate beautiful plush blankets and sheepskins, while stunning dried hydrangeas and eucalyptus plants in beautiful glass vases blend in perfect harmony with the subtle aroma of lemongrass and ginger emitting from a carefully placed Oriental Flowers Reed Diffuser. This creates stylish zones of colour, texture and fragrance.” It has always been a dream of Phaedra’s to have a lifestyle store that put home fragrance at the very core of the shop, building layers of style and colour around what arguably is the essence of every well curated room. Not only was finding the perfect store and location key but there also needed to be room for Purbeck Candles production, situated at the back of the store with cleverly placed crittall windows that allow shoppers to view the candles being made. Situated in the heart of Dorchester, Dorset’s historic county town, House of Phaedra is a wonderful addition to the numerous lovely independent stores now to be found in this re invigorated town. House of Phaedra, 7 Antelope Walk, Dorchester DT1 1BE. PERSONALISED MEMENTO COMPANY CELEBRATES 21ST ANNIVERSARY Personalised Memento Company (PMC) is excited to be celebrating its 21st Birthday! Since PMC began in 2004, it has been supplying retailers with a large range of personalised gifts, following trends and using the latest personalisation technology to produce special gifts covering all recipients and occasions! Register for a free trade account today, to see the full range of personalised gifts. E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk, www.personalisedmemento.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS 11
THE ENGLISH SOAP COMPANY CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF SOAP MAKING 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. To commemorate this special anniversary, The English Soap Company is thrilled to unveil new additions to its Anniversary, Kew Gardens, and Vintage collections. These ranges celebrate the company’s journey, blending nostalgic charm with contemporary luxury. The company is especially excited that its new Anniversary Seaweed Collection and Kew Triple Gift Boxes have been nominated in this year’s Gift of the Year Awards. Now operating across eight units on the farm where it all started, the company remains rooted in its values while looking to the future. Reflecting on the incredible milestone of 25 years, The English Soap Company is proud to have grown from kitchen experiments to a globally recognised brand. “Thank you for being part of our story as we continue to bring joy and quality to homes worldwide,” says the company. www.theenglishsoapcompany.com NEW CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES URGING RETAILERS TO PRIORITISE ACCESSIBILITY AHEAD OF THE EUROPEAN ACCESSIBILITY ACT 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, emphasising the importance of getting it right and creating inclusive digital experiences. Hilary Stephenson, Managing Director at Nexer Digital, said: “The European Accessibility Act is an important step in ensuring equality, but compliance alone isn’t enough. Through the I Matter Too campaign, we’re calling on businesses to take this as an opportunity to go beyond the minimum requirements.” In June 2025, the European Accessibility Act will come into full effect, requiring businesses across the EU to ensure that their websites, apps, ATMs, card readers, and other digital interfaces are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. Nexer Digital is urging businesses to act now, ahead of the act’s implementation, to avoid fines and to focus their efforts on creating accessible products and services. As part of the campaign, the company is also providing a series of tips on its website so retailers can take steps to ensure they are truly inclusive all year round. THE FRAGRANCE HOUSE ACQUIRES HEYLAND & WHITTLE The fast-growing fragrance company, The Fragrance House, is delighted to announce the acquisition of the brand Heyland & Whittle. Heyland & Whittle has a long-standing heritage in the UK market with its primary focus on creating home fragrance and Bath & Body products. Since its launch in 2003 the brand has been widely known for its beautiful natural soap collections and premium home fragrance ranges. David Brown, CEO The Fragrance House says: “The Heyland & Whittle ethos of using pure natural ingredients to create stunning fragranced products fits perfectly with The Fragrance House. The brand has a great long-standing reputation in the UK market and will be a fantastic addition to The Fragrance House.” The Fragrance House will be looking at operations and production in the coming months. For further details email enquries@tfhltd.co.uk or call +44 (0)1727 836 454. 12
ONLINE WHOLESALE MARKETPLACE FAIRE’S 2025 FORECAST REVEALS FOUR MAJOR CONSUMER AND PRODUCT TRENDS 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. This includes a 240 percent increase in searches for ‘burgundy’ compared to two years ago, a 29 percent increase in searches for ‘brocade’ and a 50 percent increase in searches for leather products. In response, interiors wholesale company McGowan & Rutherford in Cambridge has seen a 40 percent sales increase for its black-framed mirrors and a 20 percent increase for its rustic bottles and vases. And Charmaine Ryan, the founder of Augusta Jewellery in Somerset said programmes like Bridgerton were increasing the popularity of her most opulent pieces. Charmaine said: “I have sold jewellery on Faire for about 18 months and have definitely seen higher demand recently for the more opulent pieces of jewellery, especially those with richer coloured darker gemstones like Ruby, Emerald and Amethyst. I expect this could be influenced by programmes like Bridgerton. “I do think retailers are bored of the minimalist scandi look which has dominated for a long time and are turning towards maximalist pieces that create impressive, eye-catching displays for their gift shops, allowing them to stand out from the crowd. I absolutely love creating the more dramatic pieces of jewellery for the Victoria Noir look and . It’s so much fun.” Husband and wife team Lucas Ruth in Walsall has also experienced a 220 percent surge in sales of its handmade leather journal kits and its co-founder Adam Haycock said: “We really try to recapture a bygone era of rich textures and old-world elegance, making high quality leather products in traditional ways, making our products by hand. “In the last 90 days, our website has seen a 220 percent rise in sales compared to this time last year, and most of our sales platforms sales percentages have risen. Our Django brown colour has done particularly well this year and we’re finding that customers are wanting more of a rustic look, rather than a look that’s closer to corporate.” Intentional detours Increasing demand for items that support adventurous travel, fuelled by the post-pandemic urge for offline experiences and spontaneous trips away, is also leading to a rise in searches for ‘outdoor’, ‘tent’, ‘blankets’, ‘polaroid’ and ‘film’ on Faire, with searches for ‘outdoor’ doubling since 2024. This includes a boost in sales for Pairs Scotland’s ultra-durable mohair socks which director Alice Macfarlane partly credits for an overall 60 percent sales rise during the last quarter of 2024, and puts down to more customers looking for ‘off beaten adventures.’ Alice said: “We’re seeing growing demand for our mohair socks because more people are looking for off beaten-path adventures. They are knitted with fibre from South African Angoran goats that have to withstand massive temperature swings and can also be worn for several days on the trot without washing them as mohair has unique properties which don’t require washing as often.” And Franck Jehanne, co-founder of Heating and Plumbing London said: “We saw a surge in sales for our picnic toolkit collection right after Covid as more people wanted to be outdoors. Since then, the trend has continued and numbers have remained high. We have quite a few direct customers who select their blanket according to their car colours and have a blanket called the Roadster which is for old car collectors who love a picnic on their way to a rally.” Neutral good Environmental awareness and a desire for unique, artisanal quality was found by Faire’s report to be spurring a growing demand for handcrafted, eco-friendly products made from raw, natural materials, with searches for ‘wicker’, ‘rattan’, ‘woven’ all rising. Sophie Beaumont Willis, founder of Tenth Muse, said: “We have found our solid perfumes to be the best-selling item for many of our retailers this year. Our products are plastic-free and we have had reviews from customers stating they have switched from their usual fragrance to our solid fragrances. “Since launching in March 2023 we have seen a huge uplift in sales from people desiring a more sustainable and natural way to wear scents.” Everyday hopecore And shoppers indulging in colourful and playful purchases that nod to their childhood and brighten daily routines has contributed to a 500 percent rise in searches for ‘purse charm’ by the end of 2024 and an increase in retailers looking for bows, claw clips, ballet flats and ‘nostalgia’. Chloe Hardisty, founder of Cotton Clara in Leicestershire, which has seen strong demand for its embroidered friendship bracelets and sewing kits, said: “Nostalgia plays a big role in the design of our products, from the packaging which has a vintage haberdashery feel to it, to the products that are designed for adults but are very reminiscent of childhood. Our bestselling friendship bracelet is a great example of this. The idea of comfort and hope all link really well to the art and practice of sewing and its mindfulness and calming influence that so many of our customers tell us they get, often coming from a need to find a sense of peace in a tough time. “The positive slogans that we use on a lot of kits also sit really well with this feeling of hope’ and ‘comfort’. Our ‘You are Wonderful’ & ‘You can Do Hard Things’ are great examples of this. Shoppers are prioritising adventure, opulence, sustainability and nostalgia.” Charlotte Broadbent, UK general manager at Faire added: “The Faire Forecast 2025 highlights how a pursuit of joy is leading shoppers to prioritise a need for adventure, opulence, sustainability and nostalgia in their purchasing decisions, from indulgent Victorian-inspired décor to handcrafted, ecofriendly products. “For independent retailers, this presents an exciting opportunity to curate product selections that resonate with today’s consumers on an emotional level. By tapping into these trends, shops can offer shoppers products that provide moments of happiness and self-expression and retailers who embrace this will be well-positioned to strengthen customer loyalty and drive meaningful growth in 2025.” www.faire.com INDUSTRY NEWS 13
Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards reveals 2025 finalists Supported by Fabulous Farm Shops, Farm Retails Association and Go Jute, the shortlist for the 2025 Awards has been announced, with businesses across the UK in line to win best in category, best in region and the overall accolade ‘Retailer of the Year’. Last November Fortnum & Mason in London played host to the Judging Day, where an esteemed panel of judges came together in person at for a day of deliberations and decisions. From this they have created their shortlist of category finalists, whittled down from hundreds of entries, by taking into consideration the achievements retailers have made in the independent sector and testimonials from suppliers and customers. The 52 successful businesses span seven categories: Butcher, Delicatessen, Farm Shop Large, Farm Shop Small, Independent local shop/Village store, Online Business and Other Specialist Retailer. They cover seven UK regions: Anglia, Midlands, North of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South of England and Wales. In addition, judges went on to select the Newcomer of the Year finalists. The five successful new businesses finalists represent the Midlands, Scotland and South of England. Judge Matt Whelan, MD Fieldfare who champion the Retailer Awards, tells us: “It is wonderful to meet the inspiring and enthusiastic people behind the businesses. I love finding out more about them, their businesses and their aspirations for the future. The Awards finalist announcement has a real buzz to it. It’s great to be there and celebrate the achievements within our industry, network and learn from our colleagues.” Regional winners will be selected from the category finalists and, with the ‘Retailer of the Year’ accolade, ‘Newcomer of the Year as well as ‘Best in Category’ and ‘Best in Region’ Awards up for grabs, the winners’ announcement on Monday 7th April, 15:15 at Farm Shop & Deli Show, is set to be a fantastic celebration of speciality retailers. Take a look at the shortlisted finalists on the Awards website here: event.farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/live/en/page/home On with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad Registration Open for London Stationery Show 2025 Visitor registration is officially open for London Stationery Show 2025, set to take place at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, on Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th May. London Stationery Show 2024 was one to remember, crammed full of newness, chat, fun, gossip, creativity, deals, and competitions – as well as lots of business too over the two days. Visitor numbers were up 40 percent on the previous year, with many exhibitors and visitors agreeing that it was one of the busiest shows in recent years. Plans are now well under way for the 2025 edition of the show, which attracts the biggest UK and international brands, through to exciting new designers and innovative start-ups, all under one roof giving visitors the chance to explore an exciting edit of new products and names alongside recognised bestsellers. “Last year we welcomed just over 120 exhibitors to the show and 2025 is going to be even bigger!” enthused Chantelle White, event manager for London Stationery Show. “We’ve had so much interest from exhibitors that we’ve had to open up a new section at the Business Design Centre, so we’ll have even more exhibitors this year.” Some of the leading brands already signed up for 2025 include: Blueprint Stationery, Carousel Calendars, Craft Buddy, Crayola, Daler Rowney, Edding, Exacompta Clairefontaine, Hahnemuhle, IG Design Group, Jakar International, Kaweco, Leuchtturm1917, Manuscript Brands, Maped Helix, Mitsubishi Pencil Co, Nu:notebooks, Paperblanks, Pentel, Portico Designs, Premier Stationery, Puckator, Pukka Pads, Royal & Langnickel, Royal Talens, Silvine/Artgecko, Snopake, Stabilo International, Staedtler, Stone Marketing, Tallon International, The Pilot Pen Company and Zebra Pen UK. One of the highlights for many visitors is the Show’s Boutique Collection; a carefully curated section centred around innovation with quirky, independent suppliers presenting their product offerings. Among those exhibiting this year are Amy Britton, Andhand, Another Studio, Art House Stationery, Coffeenotes, Divide & Rule, Dodolulu, Emily May, Forma House, Good Tuesday, House of Tula, Huunuu, In Real Life, Makers Cabinet, Meraki Notebooks, Oh Laura, Rebel Stationery, Studio Frewb, Sylvia Prince and The Inspired Stories. For further information visit: www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk 14
Top Drawer unveils SS25 trends Top Drawer was abuzz with excitement as Top Drawer S/S25 unveils its exclusive trends, setting the stage for the upcoming season. Partnering once again with The Better Trends Company, Top Drawer brought you the best in forecasting and design direction for Spring/Summer 2025. This collaboration ensures that attendees are always ahead of the curve, with insights into the latest trends and innovations. Explore the top 3 seasonal trends Grandma’s Attic Step into the charm of a trend steeped in heritage and heart. Soft muted tones evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Knitted characters, hand-drawn meadow flowers, and timeless Liberty florals become cherished heirlooms. From delicate craftsmanship to pieces that tell a story, we invite you to slow down and wrap your world in a comforting, vintageinspired beauty. Art School Channel artistic energy with our celebration of analogue experimentation and DIY expression. Deep rich tones collide with soft mid-tones across print, ceramics, and marbling. Perfect for sparking creativity, we invite you to break the rules and be bold. Spring Soiree Bring the outdoors in with a Spring Soiree that’s all about tablescaping brilliance. Think vibrant sorbet hues, playful stripes, and classic gingham checks setting the stage for much-needed gatherings. Add fresh spring flowers as the final detail in this trend that celebrates colour, creativity, and connection. www.topdrawer.co.uk INDX Gift Food returns to Cranmore Park INDX Gift Food returns to Cranmore Park in 2026 with culinary delights to whet the appetite. From pickles and preserves, to savoury snacks, sweet treats, and seasonal bakes; discover key brands from the gift food and drinks arena with product launches, demonstrations, tastings, and special guest appearances. A feast for foodies, INDX Gift Food delivers a tradeshow to tantalise the tastebuds. This year, culinary connoisseurs and gift food stockists can expect a gastronomic experience with confirmed brands to include Spice Kitchen with their award-winning spices and sweet treats, Joy Pots who will be showcasing their mouth-watering flavours, Sweet Snob who will be presenting their luxurious confections, and British brand Gnaw Chocolate with their range of great-tasting, sustainable chocolate. Plus, returning favourites Bramble Foods, Stewarts of Scotland, and Petty Wood & Co will also be in attendance with their portfolios of fine food and drink brands. INDX shows are brought to you by buyers for buyers; delivering trade shows that spark connections, inspire innovation, and fuel business growth. www.indxshow.co.uk 15 NEWS & EVENTS
17 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market WIDDOP & CO LAUNCHES NEW SOFTIES CUDDLY TOY AND GIFT RANGE Home and gifting company Widdop & Co. has announced the launch of its latest product range: Softies, a collection of plush cuddly toys and gifts designed to bring joy to children and adults alike. The new line features charming characters from teddies to turtles, bunnies to brown foxes. Developed by Widdop & Co.’s CEO, Stephen Illingworth, this heartwarming collection was inspired by the children of the company’s team, including Stephen’s own kids. “This range is close to my heart,” said Stephen. “The names of these cuddly companions, like Talia and Hudson, were lovingly chosen thanks to our team’s children and my own family. It’s a celebration of the creativity and innocence that kids bring into our lives.” Stephen, alongside his brother and Widdop & Co. Managing Director Dan, have both worked tirelessly to expand the company’s portfolio of gifts to now include plush and soft toys while staying true to the firm’s heritage. “As a family business, we’ve always been about creating products that capture connection and warmth,” said Dan. “The Softies range perfectly embodies that spirit. These toys are not just adorable - they’re designed to be cherished companions for years to come.” According to market research from Statista, revenue in the UK Dolls & Stuffed Toys market is projected to reach £880 million in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 4.09 percent expected from 2025 to 2029. Softies is perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand, emerging as a must-have for retailers across the UK. “We’re incredibly proud of our heritage,” added Stephen. “But what excites us most is how we continue to evolve while staying true to our values.” www.widdop.co.uk/shop-by-brand/softies HOLY MACKEREL Get ready to brighten up any display with Holy Mackerel’s brand-new Holy Moly range! Bursting with colour, energy, and a touch of warm humour, these vibrant cards are designed to bring joy to every occasion. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a heartfelt anniversary, or a simple “thinking of you,” this collection has it all. With designs covering everything from get well soon (a must-have at this time of year!) to new baby, new home, and everyday connections, there’s a perfect card for every moment. Each Holy Moly card is a carefully crafted piece of art, featuring quirky illustrations and uplifting messages that make them stand out. Designed with both fun and sentiment in mind, these cards capture the essence of celebration and togetherness, making them a delightful choice for customers looking for something truly special. Measuring 12 x 17cm, each card is blank inside for a personal touch and printed in the UK on high-quality G F Smith 300gsm board with a contemporary matt finish. This premium quality ensures a luxurious feel, making them as delightful to hold as they are to give. At Holy Mackerel, creativity knows no bounds. Every card in the collection is designed to spread joy, spark smiles, and celebrate life’s little (and big!) moments. Whether you’re refreshing your display or simply looking for cards that stand out, the Holy Moly range is sure to make an impact with its bold, uplifting style. E: sales@holy-mackerel.co.uk www.holy-mackerel.co.uk SHARED EARTH Jute bags are the perfect eco product: long-lasting, a great alternative to plastic, and made with sustainable materials. Shared Earth’s designers come up with several great new designs each year, like this Japanese-inspired crane. Over 50 designs are available, and you can also order ownbrand bags at the same price (minimum order only 250) – an excellent way of advertising your business as customers use them again and again for years. T: +44 (0)1904 655 314 www.sharedearth-trade.uk
18 SUNSHINE LANE Sunshine Lane, a brand known for its positivity-boosting stationery and gifts, is thrilled to announce its expansion into the world of greetings cards! For the first time, Sunshine Lane is offering five collections, each brimming with uplifting messages and eye-catching designs. This exciting launch adds 60 stunning cards to the Sunshine Lane product range, making it a one-stop shop for spreading joy and encouragement. Each collection features 12 thoughtfully crafted cards, perfect for celebrating special occasions, sending heartfelt messages, or simply brightening someone’s day. From vibrant florals to playful and punny illustrations, the five collections cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. www.sunshinelane.co.uk THE PERSONALISED MEMENTO COMPANY The Personalised Memento Company (PMC) is excited to announce its brand new Tiny Tatty Teddy® range! The adorable Tiny Tatty Teddy features alongside a cute safari design on a large variety of products. With storage bags, tableware and keepsakes, there is sure to be the perfect gift for any little one. Each item in the range is personalised, making these a heartfelt gift that can be treasured for years to come. E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk www.personalisedmemento.co.uk TILNAR ART Tilnar Art is thrilled to lead the way once more with the introduction of a new collection, the AluminArt Collection. This is new wall and garden art that will bring a fresh wave of creativity to outdoor and indoor spaces, blending style, functionality, and personal expression. These artistic pieces are hand crafted intricate metalwork and vibrant murals for eco-friendly conscious gardens and homes. Tilnar Art has also added an exciting new vibrant Brushed Pink Collection to the renowned Azeti range of recycled gifts. In 2025, Tilnar Art will unveil captivating new additions, including Pink and Black Poppies in addition to the colourful dragonflies to the AluminArk Garden Collection. T: +44 (0)1277 297 259 E: sales@tilnarart.co.uk www.tilnarart.co.uk FRECKLEFACE HOME FRAGRANCE Freckleface has collaborated with the independent charity Historic Royal Palaces to create a unique range of candles and home fragrance products. This range has been designed to capture the essence of the palaces’ rich history, combined with Freckleface’s craftsmanship in sustainable scent production. The new collection has been inspired by the grandeur and stories of some of the historic sites in Historic Royal Palaces’ care such as the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, and Kensington Palace. Each scent in the range has been meticulously crafted to reflect the atmosphere and character of these remarkable locations. The range features hand crafted products that evoke the sensory experience of stepping into a palace, whether it’s the scent of historic wood panelling, opulent interiors or the magnificent palace gardens. All of the products are eco-friendly and made with premium ingredients and plastic free packaging. With a shared commitment to sustainability and authenticity, Freckleface has designed this exclusive collection to offer everyone the chance to bring a piece of royal history into their home. This collaboration is a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the allure of some of Britain’s most iconic palaces.. www.frecklefacetrade.com
www.studiopens.com “ In Salon-de-Provence, we have passed down through four generations our traditional expertise in producing Marseille soap as well as olive oil-based black soap.” A FAMILY STORY since 1900 Julie & Marie Bousquet-Fabre For more information: www.studiopens.com info@studiopens.com 01423 815700
www.ancientwisdom.biz Teakwood Bowls
21 BRAND SPANKING NEW KAWECO At the start of spring, nature’s colour palette explodes in a rich variety of yellow shades, and the first rays of golden sunshine and spring flowers radiate optimism, vitality and warmth. The coming of spring also signals the start of honey production in the wild. These bright and uplifting spring awakenings are the inspiration behind Kaweco’s newest product, the Kaweco collection Honey fountain pen. The Kaweco collection Honey fountain pen, made of highquality plastic, combines the warm yellow colour of sunflower honey with the fine golden accents that give the fountain pen a classy touch. It comes presented in a golden cardboard carton complete with a honeycomb print, and to match the pen’s vibrancy and ensuring it’s ready to use, each pen comes with a Kaweco Sunrise Orange ink cartridge. This fountain pen works with any Standard International ink cartridge, and can also be used with bottled ink (ink converter available separately). The Kaweco collection Honey fountain pen is available in five different nib sizes (Extra-Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad and ExtraBroad). While the extra-fine nib (EF) is particularly suitable for small and fine handwriting, the extra-broad nib (BB) is often used for large and dramatic signatures. The company recommends nib size M as the nib size to offer new customers. Kaweco collection is a limited-edition range. There are approximately 6 special colours released in the Kaweco collection range each year, and each colour is only produced for 12 months. For more information, please contact Kaweco’s exclusive UK distributor, Studio Pens. T: +44 (0)1423 815 700 E: info@studiopens.com www.studiopens.com EXACLAIR Decopatch Dolls House Décopatch, the bestselling crafting activity with creative papier mâché shapes, is thrilled to introduce an enchanting dolls house and accessories to its range. The Dolls house is supplied with picturesque windows, a magnetic opening front door and a handy rope carry handle. Sized 22 x 25 x 27cm when closed, a latch fastening allows it to be opened, revealing 4 separate rooms to decorate. Additionally, there are 4 furniture sets available, which allow the crafter to fill and decorate their dolls house as they wish. There is a choice of either kitchen, living room, bedroom or bathroom, all of which are supplied in pegboardable packaging, with each set including 6 miniatures to Décopatch. Multi-technique Colouring Pads Embark on a journey around the world by exploring three different themed colouring pads from art & craft specialists Clairefontaine. Whether you’re a fan of coloured pencils, felttip pens, paint or watercolour, these pads are made for you. Featuring designs based on either women, cities or botanical gardens, each pad contains 6 beautiful illustrations that are repeated 3 times to give you the opportunity to explore different colouring techniques and styles. A sheet outlining the different techniques is included, as well as an inspiration sheet to inspire and guide you. T: +44 (0)1553 696 600 E: sales@exaclair.co.uk www.exaclair.co.uk DENBY BRANDS Halo has always been so much more than just another tableware and home decor collection - when it was launched in 2010 it was truly trail blazing and rebellious and the impact was instant. Launched at the forefront of the industrial interiors trend combined with an artisanal aesthetic in ceramic design, this now-iconic unique collection created ‘Halo effects’ that at the time could never have been predicted. Today, Halo is embraced and relied upon in homes and restaurants around the world who appreciate its inherent strengths and ability to present food at its best. Safe to use in the oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher. Halo carries Denby’s 10-year manufacturers guarantee and is made to the pottery’s award-winning sustainability ethos. Denby knows that strength is nothing without beauty and provenance and the Halo collection is therefore just as strong as it is elegant and is handcrafted using local Derbyshire hardy clay and showcases a combination of Denby’s own reactive glaze recipes. The appeal of Halo is achieved using challenging techniques mastered by crafts men and women who apply two glazes by hand to each piece which then react and merge during firing in the kiln achieving a truly captivating effect - each piece being an individual work of art. Denby’s Halo pattern remains a best seller and offers a wide selection of tableware and home décor pieces. T: +44 (0)7970 611 287 E: linda.salt55@live.co.uk www.denbypottery.com JOE DAVIES A thoughtfully chosen pen from Joe Davies’ new brand Bridgewater Pen Company will make the perfect gift for professionals, students or anyone who appreciates a nice pen. The range consists of ball pens, roller balls, mechanical pencils and fountain pens. Each pen comes with its own stunning gift box, and all have a lifetime mechanical guarantee. Along with the classic collection, they have some extremely giftable occasion pens and pen sets for wedding, anniversary, graduation, retirement and birthday. There really is something for everyone. To make an eye-catching display of the collection there is a counter display unit available that can hold 9 different designs and 3 pens per design. Joe Davies has many more exciting ranges at their Manchester showroom, they offer free nationwide delivery, carriage paid orders of just £100 and have an award-winning customer team on hand to help! T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk
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