Gifts Today August September 2025

Gifts Today Contents

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Marian

Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

22

Industry Talk: Gemma Sault, managing director of The Giftware Association

78 Trade Talk: Leading gift suppliers reflect on the trends set to shape autumn, and reveal how they’re preparing for the crucial Q4 trading period

84 Shop Talk: Independent gift retailers share summer sales trends and spill the beans on bestsellers, fresh finds, and how they’re getting set for the upcoming season

Columnists

24 Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting

Sarah Halsall, owner of Hand Picked by Henrietta in the Cheshire town of Poynton

Bryony Taylor-Edwards, co-founder of Think BIG

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association)

Cover Story

Warmies is celebrating 30 years of warmth, wellness, and heart in every hug

Fair Focus

Retailer Focus

Bishop, co-owner of Cornucopia

in

Morton, manager of Strickland and Holt in Yarm Product

Message from the Editor

www.giftstoday.media

LinkedIn: @giftstoday

Twitter: @giftstodaymag

Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

Here’s a surprising statistic for you. Did you know that 3% of Brits have already done all their Christmas shopping by June? And, on the opposing end of the spectrum, 1% intend to do it in the last week before Christmas! That’s according to research just released by IPA (The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising).

Based on a survey of 2,000 UK adults, November and the first week in December remain the peak Christmas gift-buying periods, with 53% of Brits doing the majority of their Christmas shopping during this time.

This November timeframe coincides with Black Friday, during which an increasing percentage of people intend to do most of their festive shopping, rising from 13% in 2022 to 16% in 2023, and now standing at 17%. And almost half (47%) of Brits now split their shopping between online and instore, with a further third (31%) now mostly and/ or exclusively, shopping online.

So ensuring you’re well prepared before the all-important Q4 rush is critical - and we’re here to help. This issue is filled to bursting with exciting new products across the gifting spectrum to inspire you.

With the autumn trade show season upon us, we have previews of four trade shows that take place in September and October, making them well-timed for you to stock up well in advance of the festive flurry: Autumn Fair, Top Drawer, Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), and The Gift Fair. (We also look further afield to the IHGF Delhi Fair, and ahead to Harrogate Christmas & Gift.)

In our Trade Talk section, we’ve asked a selection of leading gift suppliers to share their preparations for the Yuletide trading period, from the plans they’ve got in place to support retailers with Christmas orders, to the products they anticipate will be standout performers.

Our Cover Star Warmies, which will be exhibiting at Autumn Fair, no doubt has high hopes for some of the charming additions to its range. It’s tapping into collectible culture with the launch of keyrings, bag charms, and mini plush toys, which are small, affordable, and ultra-giftable.

You can read more about the brand’s new product developments - and its impressive 30-year growth story - on page 32.

Autumn Fair is definitely a go-to show for retailer Lindsey Scott-Walker, owner of Feather Robins in Northampton, who takes part in our regular Shop Talk section. “We’re looking forward to Autumn Fair, which always helps us get into the Christmas mindset and plan strategically for Q4. It’s a great opportunity to discover new suppliers, find fresh inspiration, and solidify our festive buying plans,” she says.

And we can safely predict that Lindsey will pop by the Warmies’ stand. Why? Because she recently introduced the brand to her store, and it’s already proving popular with customers - so much so that Warmies are set to feature heavily in her seasonal campaigns as we head into the cooler months. “Their comforting warmth, gifting appeal, and calming lavender fragrance make the perfect trio,” she says. “I’m quietly hoping that the soothing scent will bring a little serenity to our busiest trading days too!”

Other indies we’ve spoken to for Shop Talk have also told us how they’re getting ready for the A/W buying season, and shared details of their summer trading experiences, recent arrivals, and current bestsellers. It’s a must-read, as always!

Plus, we’ve got the inside scoop on two award-winning businesses. Check out our Retail Interviews with Hannah Bishop, co-owner of Cornucopia Home & Gift in Worcester, and Paddy Morton, manager of Strickland and Holt in Yarm - who were respectively crowned Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - Midlands & Wales, and Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - North, Northern Ireland and Scotland, in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025.

Finally, don’t miss Bryony Taylor-Edwards’ column, which offers practical advice on how to maximise the pre-Christmas season, from planning your core festive offer, to trends and marketing tips. In her wise words: “By curating your offer with intention, from autumn all the way to Christmas Eve, you’ll give your customers a reason to keep returning to your store, both online and in person. The path to a strong festive season starts now!”

Clare Turner, Editor

clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

News Bryony seeks next challenge

Senior brand leader and retail strategist Bryony Taylor-Edwards has announced she is seeking her next leadership opportunity within an aspirational retail, lifestyle, or gifting brand - with a focus on brand marketing, buying, or a hybrid strategic role.

Bryony brings a blend of creative vision and commercial rigour, having most recently served as marketing, brand & buying lead and executive board member at Yarnton Home & Garden. There, she was a central part of the team that transformed it into an award-winning, designled retail destination, directly contributing to a successful business sale in February this year. With a background that spans luxury and premium retail, Bryony is known for her ability to craft bold brand strategies, grow loyal customer communities, and lead high-performing teams. She has delivered stand-out omnichannel campaigns, strategic partnerships, and product curation across home, gift, spa, fashion, and food.

Charlie Bears partners

with The Cinnamon Trust

Charlie Bears has announced a heartwarming new partnership with national charity The Cinnamon Trust, which supports the elderly and terminally ill in caring for their beloved pets.

Deeply moved by the Trust’s mission, Charlie Bears founders Will and Charlie Morris have created an exclusive, limited-edition teddy to raise vital funds, Cinnamon Pup is an adorable, cuddly corgi, inspired by the loyal companions the charity helps every day.

Her commercial achievements include launching an e-commerce platform during the Covid lockdown, building a loyalty programme with more than 40,000 engaged members, and consistently securing national press coverage in titles such as ‘Tatler’ and ‘House & Garden’.

As a qualified executive coach (ILM Level 7) with a deep understanding of leadership development, Bryony combines brand-building expertise with people-first leadership. She is now looking for a senior role where she can bring her full toolkit - strategic thinking, creative direction, buying instinct, and team development - to help a values-led brand grow its impact.

Bryony said: “I’m excited to find a new challenge with an ambitious, design-led brand that’s ready for bold thinking, commercial creativity, and meaningful customer connection. Whether leading brand strategy, buying, or both, I’m passionate about shaping businesses that truly stand out.”

For opportunities or introductions, Bryony can be contacted via LinkedIn or at bryonytayloredwards@gmail.com.

Zebra Pen strengthens UK team

Japanese writing instruments manufacturer Zebra Pen has appointed three new team members as it seeks to accelerate its growth further across the UK.

Having recently moved from Snopake Brands, Sarah Carnell-Grist has taken on a new national account manager role within the company. Bringing a wealth of experience, including over a decade at STABILO, Sarah will be focused on developing the business’ commercial and educational channels.

Similarly, with Zebra looking to extend operations within the independent retailer sector, well-known and respected territory sales manager Gary Smith has now made the switch from Pilot after 16 years of service.

And following seven years with the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, Lawrence Savage has joined as UK marketing manager. He will be working closely with the new sales team as it seeks to expand its product ranges throughout these sectors.

Launched this summer, 15% of sales from each Cinnamon Pup sold via the Charlie Bears website will be donated directly to The Cinnamon Trust, helping to ensure pets and their owners can stay together for as long as possible. This meaningful collectible combines Charlie Bears’ signature craftsmanship with a cause close to the brand’s heart.

Fox Under The Moon collabs with Joe Davies

Fox Under The Moon, the much-loved brand celebrated for its whimsical illustrations and heartfelt words, has announced a new licensing partnership with awardwinning giftware distributor Joe Davies.

Revealed at the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival, the collaboration marks an exciting step forward for Fox Under The Moon, whose books and greeting cards have become favourites with customers seeking thoughtful, comforting gifts.

In a first for Joe Davies, the partnership sees the company expand into sentiment-based licensed ranges. Fox Under The Moon founder Stacey McNeill’s gentle storytelling and signature characters will soon feature on an extended selection of products, including mugs, coasters, jewellery, trinkets, jigsaws and more.

She said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Joe Davies. Its reputation for quality, care and independent retailer support makes it the perfect partner as we bring our little world of comfort and hope to new gifting formats.”

The licensed gift collection is set to launch in early 2026, with retailers able to preview the range via Joe Davies’ trade channels in the months ahead.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift The UK’s ONLY Christmas trade show!

Ella and I wins business award

Home fragrance brand Ella and I has been named Small Business of the Year at the North Cheshire Business Awards, organised by North Cheshire Chamber of Commerce. The accolade recognises the company’s dedication to innovation, growth, and quality as an independent brand.

Ella and I director Rebecca Moss

Ella and I director Rebecca Moss commented: “This award is a significant milestone for Ella and I. It reflects the hard work and commitment of our entire team, as well as the ongoing support from our customers and supporters. We’re grateful to the judges and organisers for this recognition.”

Based in Macclesfield, Ella and I produces peelable gel wax melts and home fragrance products: all hand-poured in-house. The business continues to focus on creativity, quality, and innovation as it looks ahead to further growth and expansion.

Recognition for Letterbox Love founder

Kerry Bilson, the director and founder of jewellery gifting business Letterbox Love, has reached the finals of two categories of the National Business Women’s Awards: Businesswoman of the Year - Micro, and Young Businesswoman of the Year.

The awards programme recognises and raises the profile of industrious, hardworking and enterprising business women nationally. The winners will be announced during a ceremony at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge in October.

Kerry said: “To say I’m thrilled is an understatement! I started Letterbox Love in 2020 in an e ort to create meaningful, a ordable gifts that spread kindness and connection. Over the past year, our little brand has gone from strength to strength, thanks to our amazing customers and stockists who believe in what we do.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Letterbox Love’s journey so far, from our customers and retail partners to our friends and family who cheer us on every step of the way. This recognition really does mean the world.”

Helen Cottrill joins Figured’Art

Helen Cottrill has joined Figured’Art as its new business development director, with a key focus on expanding the brand’s presence in the UK retail market.

Founded in 2018, Figured’Art specialises in DIY art kits, o ering a wide range of creative products including paint-bynumbers, diamond painting, and other artistic leisure activities.

Helen brings with her more than 30 years of experience in the gift and collectible industry, having spent most of her career at Enesco as marketing and product director. Following a brief break during when she worked with Blade & Rose as a marketing consultant, she is returning to the gift and craft sector full-time.

Helen said: “I’m very product-oriented, and fell in love with the collection at Figured’Art. The quality and innovation is exceptional. The attention to detail really elevates the product - and their 175,000 Instagram followers clearly agree. I see so many exciting opportunities ahead.” For further information, email helen.cottrill@figuredart.com.

Planet Sal scoops prize

Sally Wilde, owner of Planet Sal in the Devon town of Honiton, has won the Card & Gift Shop category of the South West England Prestige Awards 2024/25 - for the fifth consecutive year.

Sally said: “This is such a boost in a di cult year. I’m absolutely thrilled that my little-shop-with-bigaspirations, Planet Sal, has won. This is all down to my lovely customers supporting me and making every day in the shop a pleasure.”

Owned and operated by publishing house Fenice Media, The Prestige Awards is a regional and country-specific awards programme that recognises small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for their excellence in service and products.

Osmaan Mahmood, founder & CEO of Fenice Media, commented: “Although small businesses may not be able to compete with multinational companies on their size and scale, there is a personalised service-driven focus that is often void from large organisations.”

A go-to hub for festive finds

The 2026 edition of Harrogate Christmas & Gift , which takes place from January 11 to January 14 at the Harrogate Convention Centre, continues to grow in scale and impact

After an impressive expansion in 2025, featuring a multi-hall extravaganza of Christmas décor, gifts, and year-round seasonal o erings, the 2026 edition of Harrogate Christmas & Gift promises to be even bigger.

Trusted by thousands of buyers from department stores, garden centres, heritage outlets, and independent retailers across Europe and beyond, this show is a key destination for those seeking the latest festive trends and products. Halls A, B, C and M are now fully booked, with limited space available in the remaining halls. Leading exhibitors to look out for include:

• Premier Decorations (Hall H): a standout exhibitor, occupying the entire hall with premium Christmas decorations, trees, lighting, and sophisticated décor.

• Snowtime (Stand D1): famous for its lifelike artificial trees and immersive Christmas village displays.

• Festive Productions (Stand C1): o ering an impressive variety of seasonal items, including ornate glass and shatterproof baubles, tinsel, wreaths, lights, fibre optics, and artificial trees.

• Gisela Graham (Stands M14, 16, 28): known for its eclectic, design-led Christmas and gift lines, Gisela Graham’s stand has expanded to showcase collections featuring popular characters like The Gru alo & Friends, as well as nostalgic tableware.

• Kaemingk (Stand G10): a leading Dutch supplier of festive products, Kaemingk will present an extensive range of items, from hand-blown baubles to Everlands artificial trees and Lumineo lighting, all in a dedicated Hall G. The company will be joined in Hall G by one of the UK’s top importers of artificial flowers: Lotus Imports (Stand G16)

• Joe Davies (Hall C, Stand C22): has moved to a new location in Hall C presenting hundreds of brand-new, seasonal gift and decorative lines, many designed inhouse and exclusive to the company.

• Smart Garden Products/Three Kings (Stand Q1): returns to the show with hundreds of new lines including indoor and outdoor Christmas lighting, festive plush decorations, wreaths, festoons and garlands, fantastically giftable figurines and even pet products!

• Floralsilk (Stands B2, B7, & B9), Norfolk Leisure (Stand B15), Heaven Sends (Stand C37 a, b, c & d), APAC (Stand Q6) and Puleo Asia (Stand M22): returning with extensive collections of artificial florals, greeting cards, giftware, and garden décor that are popular among garden centre and retail buyers.

• Sincere UK (Hall A, Stand A18): Offering reliable gifting and presentation solutions across wholesale channels.

• Widdop & Co. (Queens Suite Balcony, Stand QS2): A new location for the brand, alongside Portland Living (Stand C11), which will showcase its latest o erings in Hall C.

A number of fresh faces will be adding variety to the show, including Arthur Cameron, Candlelight, Enesco, Willow Brook and Ikon Sales. These newcomers will feature an array of products, from fine stationery and pen sets to scented candles, international figurines, home décor, and lifestyle accessories.

Department store buyers will benefit from access to high-volume, design-led brands, giving them the chance to secure exclusive collections and plan their product o erings well in advance of Christmas 2026. Buyers will find endless inspiration for creating immersive festive zones, all under one roof.

For those looking for something truly unique, Harrogate Christmas & Gift o ers a selection of artisanal-quality ranges, character-filled designs, and exclusive niche products that stand out for their provenance and creativity.

With more than 100 exhibitors spread across nine halls, buyers will enjoy unmatched breadth and variety, making it

easier to pre-plan merchandising and secure next-season stock at preferential rates.

The best part? Harrogate Christmas & Gift is free for all trade visitors, and with accommodation in the beautiful Yorkshire town of Harrogate o ering extremely favourable rates at this time of year, visitors should allow plenty of time to spend at the exhibition. Simply register online at www.harrogatefair.com to access full details about the show and a complete list of exhibitors.

What: Harrogate Christmas & Gift

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Kings Road, Harrogate, Yorkshire

When: January 11-14 2026

Call: 01902 882280

Email: simon@harrogatefair.com

Visit: www.harrogatefair.com

Big personality in your palm

Aurora World’s Palm Pals are proving that great things really do come in small packages. With a fast-growing range spanning animals, snacks, and garden-themed characters - all designed to be collected, displayed, and loved - these irresistibly tactile plush toys are capturing hearts across age groups and creating fresh retail opportunities

Palm Pals from Aurora World are an irresistibly cute collection of soft toy characters that have been designed to fit perfectly in the palm of your hand. Made from super soft materials, each Palm Pal features an under-stu ed bean-filled body, giving them a unique and highly tactile design that’s both cuddly and endlessly playable.

The Palm Pals range has such wide appeal that Aurora has expanded it to include a variety of fun categories. There are fruits and vegetables to help you get your five a day, and for those with a sweet tooth, there’s a delightful selection of plush toys shaped like your favourite pastries, with doughnuts, cake, and bagels, along with matching drinks to have with them like Boba Tea.

For garden enthusiasts, there is a range of garden-themed plush, with Flo the watering can or Junie the Daisy flower pot, with butterflies, ladybugs and other insects to collect.

To delight the collector who loves animals, the Palm Pals range includes a wide selection of creatures from Jungle and Farm animals to Sealife, Pets, Dinosaurs, Dragons and Unicorns. With new additions arriving regularly, you’ll be able to collect all your favourite animals and more.

Every Palm Pals in the range comes with its own name and personality - such as Airy the Avocado or Safara the Gira e - and includes a collector’s number on its hangtag. For fans eager to build their collection, Aurora o ers a downloadable collector’s guide to track their growing group of Palm Pals.

Retailers can choose from a variety of eye-catching display options, including CDUs, FSDUs, and POS units to promote this must-have collectible range. Backed by a targeted and strategic marketing campaign, Palm Pals enjoys strong digital engagement and brand loyalty. The focus on collectability and contemporary character design makes them perfect for social sharing.

“Palm Pals have universal appeal, thanks to their on-trend designs”

Palm Pals have universal appeal, thanks to their on-trend designs - as seen in the newly launched Toby Teapot and Tilly Teacup, which charm both children and adults alike. The range spans a variety of genres, appealing not only to younger audiences but also to the growing ‘kidult’ market, where playful nostalgia meets collectability at an a ordable price point. There’s a Palm Pal for everyone.

Call: 01256 374260

Email: info@auroraworld.co.uk

Visit: www.auroraworld.co.uk

Introducing our exciting new range of kids’ accessories! Along with 100s of beautiful new cards, stationery and gifts. Become a stoc kist at –Or for more informa tion, please contact us: Call: 0115 970 0321 Email: sales@rachelellen.co.uk

“A great year so far!”

The artisan crystal gifts and collectables brand Wild Things recently celebrated 41 years in business in the UK and, according to founder Jules Vahrmann, it’s busier than ever

With the uncertainty in the US market and the continuing Brexit nightmare, we’ve decided to focus big time on the UK market and on expanding our range,” says Wild Things founder Jules Vahrman.

His company, which designs all and handcrafts almost all of its products, which are shipped directly from its base in Exeter - has been “busier than ever,” he reports, with new displays, products, people, premises, and plans for a new website.

First up, displays and products. Compact and versatile cardboard displays are now available, providing a more colourful alternative to its ‘gold standard in crystal displays booth’ and current wire displays.

“Customers have been asking for more carded and boxed products for a while now,” Jules explains. “The ‘rotating tree in a brilliantly lit booth’ concept still works so well for us, with customers reporting a fantastic sales-to-footprint ratio. However, customers have run out of room for all the products we o er!

“We’re in the process of adding many more. Over the years we’ve built up an extensive design portfolio, and we’re planning on applying the most successful of these to bookmarks, pins, bag charms, and a new jewellery range.”

Pictured are some lovely new Christmas Dreams Ornaments, and the ‘flagship’ Crystal Radiance Suncatchers. With RRPs ranging from £5.99 to £26.99, Wild Things is well-poised to thrive in a gift market where people are looking for well-designed products at an a ordable price.

Next, new people. Over the past couple of years, head of sales Liz Corbin has brought in salespeople to cover areas that the in-house sales team, comprising Kate Taplin and Anita Powley, cannot reach.

Jules comments: “Will Kingham has been going great guns in the South East for a while now, Irene Grant is in Scotland, Maria Valdez Cortez-Plower covers Ireland, and Suzanne Chapman is responsible for Wild Things’ national accounts.”

Meanwhile, back in the o ce, Jules’ daughter Anna Vahrman has joined the business after many years in film location: an experience which provides a great foundation for her ops manager skills.

And no sooner had she joined, but she spotted the gaping hole where a marketing department should be! So, she recruited experienced marketers Natalie Taylor and Katrina Menear, and ace website admin person Helyn Stevens, who is returning to work after eight years away from the likes of Vodafone and BAT [British American Tobacco].

Meanwhile, the production department was becoming overstretched with increased sales, and Wild Things was pleased to welcome Kitty Penhaligan as quality control and homeworker liaison. Kitty has made Wild Things products at home for many years and, along with her big personality, she was the perfect choice.

And now, new premises. Wild Things has just relocated from Unit 5 of Kenton Place in Exeter to Unit 2. Jules notes: “We outgrew our premises, were looking to move, and an additional unit became available a couple of doors away.”

And finally, in October, there will be a new website! Watch this space…

New products

Disney delights

Enesco

As part of the celebration of 20 years of Disney Traditions, Enesco has announced the launch of the newest addition to this collection: ‘Vengeful Villainess’ the deluxe Maleficent statue.

This enchanting piece, set to come into stock at the start of November, represents the first time the renowned artisan Jim Shore has crafted a deluxe piece featuring a Disney Villain, and is testament to his skill in merging heart-stopping detail with captivating narrative artistry.

Standing 39.5cm, it captures Maleficent in all her dark glory, enrobed in meticulously sculpted garments adorned with Jim’s iconic rosemaling and quilt patterns. Further enhancing its allure, the statue is accented with black gems set with precision, adding an element of mystique and luxury.

Jim’s creations continue to be a beloved staple for collectors the world over. Don’t miss the chance to o er your customers this spellbinding addition to their collections.

Also new from Enesco is the “Friends to the Rescue” figurine by Jim. This new addition to the Disney Traditions collection arrives in early November, as a tribute to the 100th anniversary of Winnie the Pooh.

This meticulously crafted piece brings together cherished characters Pooh Bear, Rabbit, Eeyore, and Kanga. Together, Pooh’s friends are rescuing him from one of his typical mishaps: getting stuck in the hole to Rabbit’s home.

Jim infuses his signature folk art style into each character, with intricate rosemaling patterns and vibrant colours enhancing the narrative charm that fans have come to associate with his work. The artistry displayed in this piece celebrates not only the warmth and humour of The Hundred Acre Wood, but also Jim’s unique ability to weave sentimental storytelling through finely detailed craftsmanship.

Catwalk-inspired Remaldi

Remaldi’s A/W25 reading glasses collection captures the essence of this season’s key catwalk trends with more than 35 new designs. Expect rich, autumnal hues of amber, yellow, flame, cherry red, olive, and brown, paired with modern, flattering silhouettes.

Many frames are crafted using recycled materials, giving plastic a second life while maintaining strong fashion appeal. The collection o ers something for every taste, from bold statement frames to slim ovals, and sleek rectangles inspired by the 1990s revival.

Highlights include Annecy Electric in vibrant fuchsia, Stamford Cherry - a fresh take on last year’s bestselling burgundy - and Paris oval frames in dusk and tortoise. Other standout styles include York Sage, Bamberg Olive (a versatile unisex option), and Barnes Almond: a transparent aviator bringing a clean, modern finish.

For buyers seeking trend-driven, quality and affordable reading glasses with eco-conscious appeal, Remaldi delivers in both style and substance.

Call: 0113 239 1400

Email: sales@opticaid.net

Visit: www.opticaid.net/trade

Call: 01228 404022

Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk

Visit: www.enesco.co.uk

Get creative

Zebra Pen

Ideal for journalling, sketching, everyday writing and other creative projects, the CLiCKART range from Japanese writing instruments manufacturer Zebra Pen o ers retailers an alternative twist on the traditional felt-tip.

Drawing from the supplier’s heritage of innovative products, the Zebra CLiCKART retractable felt-tip o ers capless functionality with a new ink technology that absorbs the moisture in the air, keeping the ink from drying out for up to a year.

Not only does this eradicate the need for an end cap, but the 2mm bullet tip provides an average line width of 0.6mm as the user benefits from a smooth writing experience. Plus, the waterbased dye ink can blend with water. Suitable for children aged over three years, the felt-tips are available in a carry case which holds an assortment of 12 light colours.

Call: 020 8974 2202

Email: info@zebrapen.co.uk

Visit: https://zebrapen.co.uk/

Enchanting design

SANTORO

SANTORO’s new Gorjuss In The Forest collection continues to charm stationery lovers and creatives with the latest gifting release: Lockable Notebook Gift Sets. Available in two enchanting designs based on the new Gorjuss girls, Fairy Dusk and Firefly Dawn, the lockable notebooks are great for capturing daydreams, doodles, or daily musings.

Presented in a premium window gift box, the notebooks feature 200 lined pages and a soft padded cover, adorned with elegant rose-gold foil detailing and artwork that brings each character’s world to life. A heartshaped padlock and two keys keep secrets and thoughts safely tucked away, while a matching key-shaped black pen adds a lovely finishing touch.

Call: 02087 811104

Visit: https://santorotrade.com/

Email: sales@santoro-london.com

Sparkle & bloom

Joe

Davies

New from Equilibrium for A/W is the “All that Sparkles” Collection: a range of 24 carded earrings, each plated in sterling silver for a high-quality finish at an affordable price point.  Featuring 12 studs, six hoops and six dangly styles, every design has been finished with a subtle touch of sparkle, adding just the right amount of glamour for everyday wear or that special night out!

Supplied with a compact spinning counter display stand, “All that Sparkles” is ideal for making a big impact in a small space, making it a must-have for boosting seasonal jewellery sales.

And following the success of Indigo Garden and Wild Garden, Joe Davies has unveiled its new Cottage Garden Collection: a rustic and romantic range of ceramic vases and planters, inspired by the charm of English country gardens.

Each piece features a hand-finished floral motif, bringing together vibrant wildflowers in delicate tones against a softly aged cream base. The designs evoke a homely warmth that’s perfect for S/S ranges, as well as year-round gifting. From petite bud vases to tall planters, the variety of shapes and sizes offers visual impact, both as individual pieces and grouped together.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Back to school Puckator

This back-to-school season, Puckator is bringing the fun with brand-new ranges that are as practical as they are playful. Crafted by its UK in-house design team, these exclusive character-led products are perfect for the starting of the new term, or everyday practicality.

First up are brand-new rucksacks, ideal for younger children starting their school journey. Featuring exclusive Adoramals characters, from playful Nico the Penguin to cheeky Archie the Shark, these cute, animal-inspired backpacks are a perfect way to make school exciting. With plenty of space for notebooks, lunches, and stationery, they’re designed for little learners who want to show off their character.

Complementing the rucksacks is a vibrant range of lunchboxes, which includes the colourful Foodiemals range, where fruit, vegetables and fast food favourites are brought to life. Other popular themes include Knights and Dragons, Game Over, and much more. Each lunchbox is lightweight, easy to clean, and fits perfectly inside a matching rucksack - making it a practical and playful addition to the school day.

New for this season are Puckator’s eye-catching silicone pencil cases. Made from durable, easy-to-clean silicone, these upright cases feature 3D heads of popular Adoramals characters on top, adding a quirky and unique touch to any desk. Soft to the touch and able to stand independently, they provide ample storage for pens, pencils, and accessories - making them an ideal addition to any back-toschool collection.

Finally, the entire stationery range appeals to all age groups, with Everlasting Pencils, Erasable Pens, and Highlighter Toppers showcasing all of Puckator’s exciting in-house themes.

With strong shelf appeal, competitive pricing, and original UK-designed products, Puckator’s back-to-school range is a must-have for retailers this season.

Call: 0800 011 6969

Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk

Visit: www.puckator.co.uk

Rachel Ellen Designs

Girl power

While Rachel Ellen Designs’ latest collection is brimming with new stationery and gift lines, its Autumn/Winter launch puts a special focus on fun, stylish and adorable accessories for girls

Although there is plenty of fabulous newness in Rachel Ellen Designs’ extensive stationery range and other general gifting lines, its A/W launch has a heavy bias towards accessories for girls.

With 28 years of innovation that has included hundreds of di erent products, the company has evolved some lines previously sold with great success, such as hair accessories. A lovely new range features the cutest embroidered characters on both elastics and clips. Sold in sets on supportive backboards, they make adorable gifts, as well as being extremely useful.

Also adding to the range are four gorgeous new bow headbands that have various embellishments, such as pom poms and flowers, attached to hand-tied bows on a patterned fabric covered band.

Two new designs of the ever popular four sectioned stacking tins o er a perfect storage solution for the hair accessories, and any other small and precious items.

With the hair accessories and keyrings all being supplied on a hanging backboard, Rachel Ellen has designed a compact countertop spinner to display them at their best. Constructed from durable printed board, it displays four products on each of the four sides, and is supplied free of charge with a carriage paid order that contains suitable product.

Staying on the theme of hair accessories, one of the supplier’s bestselling product ranges is its boxed sparkly hair brushes, which feature encapsulated holographic stars that move around above the feature design on the back. A new unicorn design is bound to be popular.

When girls have been busy looking their best all day, what could be better than to pull on a soft sleep mask to settle down for a good night’s beauty sleep? In unicorn and leopard designs, they have embroidered features and a Velcro fastening strap for ease of use.

Further new products include three designs of striking wash bags for both girls and boys. A perfect blend of fun and function, they’re made in a durable Oxford fabric with an inside pocket.

Other new products include two styles of keyring. One features typically bright and colourful characters on a shaped, transparent acrylic body, while the other is in a gorgeous enamel format. These have several pendants attached to a sturdy ring that can be hung from bags, pencil cases and rucksacks.

Having ventured into plush previously, everyone at Rachel Ellen Designs is really excited about a new incarnation of that with its new range of bag charms. Various characters make choosing a hard decision! A mix of materials and embroidered detail add to their appeal. They come supplied with both a clip and keyring to make attachment to bags and backpacks easy and secure.

To complete the launch is a new format of luxury foiled sticker books, packs of party paper chains, and a password book, along with new designs of the bestselling writing sets and secret diaries, numerous new notebooks, glitter pens, and seven new designs of money tins.

A new way to source

Exhibitor’s spotlight

Hoegr marketing and sales executive

Sophie Jacks says:

How is this online trade show different? It’s a fully interactive trade show - complete with exhibitor stands, product information, and opportunities to chat directly with sellers. It’s designed by exhibitors, for exhibitors.

Hosted by Xpofairs, The Gift Fair offers an innovative way to source new products and discover emerging brands. Designed to attract a fresh wave of buyers who may not usually attend traditional trade shows, it gives exhibitors the chance to present their products to a wider and more diverse audience. Exhibitors can showcase their story through their stand, helping buyers get to know the people and passion behind the brand.

The Gift Fair is also hosting a U.S. version of the trade show next year for those wanting to do more business across the pond. Get in touch now to secure your stand at either event! When

“At Hoegr, we’re all about comfort, creativity, and doing things a little differently. So when we heard about The Gift Fair, we were instantly intrigued.

The concept of an online trade show felt fresh, accessible, and super relevant for small brands like ours. As a growing sock brand inspired by the Nordic concept of hygge, finding new ways to connect with buyers and retailers - especially ones we wouldn’t normally have access to - makes a massive difference.

What really sold us though, was the ‘build your own stand’ feature. It gave us the chance to showcase the heart of Hoegr from the get-go: our personality, our products, and the little details that make our brand feel like a warm hug for your feet. The digital format has given us the freedom to get creative, be playful, and share what makes our socks a little bit special - without needing a huge budget or a physical booth.

It’s been a really exciting experience so far, and we’re genuinely looking forward to connecting with new stockists, telling the Hoegr story, and seeing where this virtual adventure takes us!”

For buyers, there’s nothing to lose, and everything to gain. You’ll explore unique and exciting offerings from standout UK brands - all without the time, cost, or hassle of travelling. You can even attend The Gift Fair alongside in-person shows, giving you access to businesses that may not have the resources to exhibit at traditional venues.

This isn’t just about browsing a catalogue; it’s about building lasting business relationships. The Gift Fair’s UK digital platform enables direct engagement with UK gift manufacturers, brands, and wholesalers who are committed to quality, consistency, and communication.

The platform encourages real-time conversations and relationship-building in a way that feels just like a live trade show - only it’s accessible anytime, from anywhere.

A key mission of The Gift Fair is to support small and emerging businesses. If you’re just starting out, or operating as a small team, this is a valuable opportunity to gain exposure without stepping away from your dayto-day operations. For six weeks, you’ll have a chance to put your business in front of buyers and build connections that can drive long-term growth.

Some of the amazing brands exhibiting at The Gift Fair include Sienna Glass, Sophos, Hoegr, Good Tuesday,

Gilded Words, GoGo Olive, Boxer

and

But that’s just a taster… There are many more to discover. Many brands are returning from the first edition of The Gift Fair, plus there are plenty of new brands to check out.

o ce is

“The

Meet Gemma at Autumn Fair

Gemma’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the G.A., and members will have the opportunity to meet her in person at Autumn Fair, which takes place at NEC Birmingham from September 7 to September 10.

The G.A. will exhibit on stand 7F44 - G45 with the Gift of the Year Winners’ Showcase, and Gemma will be on hand to connect with members, share insights, and discuss how the G.A. can continue to support their businesses.

Gemma

Sault

What’s your career background?

I’ve dedicated more than 15 years to the retail industry, specialising in merchandising, supply chain, imports/ exports, and visual merchandising. I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the success of renowned retailers such as Ryman, Poundland, Sainsbury’s, Next, and Claire’s Accessories.

Throughout my career, I’ve always had a particular passion for seasonal events, especially Christmas. For nearly five years, I had the exciting role of managing the Poundland Christmas range alongside my senior buyer - it truly felt like Christmas every day. There’s immense satisfaction in seeing a product you’ve helped develop from concept to creation land directly in a customer’s shopping basket.

What excited you most about stepping into your role as the new managing director of The Giftware Association (G.A.)?

What excites me is the opportunity to connect with and support our incredible members in growing their businesses. Having worked within the Theo Paphitis Retail Group during my time at Ryman, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of dedicated mentorship and support for entrepreneurs.

The prospect of following in those footsteps and empowering businesses within this industry means a great deal to me. Giving a voice to these innovators and celebrating their successes is incredibly rewarding.

How did your previous experiences prepare you for this job?

My extensive experience in retail, working alongside exceptional colleagues, suppliers, and customers, has uniquely prepared me for this position. Every interaction has been a learning opportunity.

The G.A. hosts regular ‘Talking Together’ events with members. These events serve as a platform for discussion on various industry topics, such as sustainable sourcing, overseas exporting, and the importance of B Corp certification

giftware industry

, the new managing director of The Giftware Association (G.A.), shares her priorities and plans for the UK trade body that serves the gift and home industry

I deeply understand the day-to-day challenges our members face: from ensuring timely stock delivery and navigating shipping complexities, to mastering cost negotiations. I’ve been there first-hand, so I can genuinely empathise and offer practical support and shared experience.

My time at Poundland, where ‘Amazing Value Everyday’ was the core strategy, instilled in me the importance of understanding product value and composition to find the most e ective solutions.

While some may underestimate the discounter model, it truly sharpens one’s ability to identify e cient strategies. This insight will be invaluable in counselling our members and helping them overcome challenges.

What are your top priorities for the next 12 months?

My top priorities are to review and enhance the value of our association’s services and hold ourselves accountable to our members’ evolving needs. We will be conducting a strategic review to ensure our current members receive the utmost value from their membership.

Simultaneously, I’m committed to growing our overall membership, as I believe we can o er significant value to many more businesses. Watch this space!

What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges in the giftware space right now, and how can the G.A. help tackle them?

The most significant challenge currently is the economic climate, with consumers being more conscious of their spending. The G.A. must act as a strong advocate for our industry, lobbying the government for policies that support retail. A key focus will be addressing the uneven playing field created by online retailers like Shein, particularly concerning taxation.

is a powerhouse

Policy changes, such as the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), can be complex and confusing. The G.A. will play a crucial role in keeping members informed and updated on such regulations, allowing them to focus on their core passions and creativity. We also need to protect their creativity through services like patent advice and legal support.

Finally, operational challenges, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, are a constant concern. My 15 years of experience in ensuring timely and complete deliveries equip me to understand these struggles.

We want our members to feel empowered to reach out to us for support and advice. Our recent ‘How to Work with a Freight Forwarder’ course is a fantastic example of the practical skills we can o er to help businesses grow.

Despite the challenges, the giftware industry is a powerhouse, valued at £9.3 billion last year, with economists projecting a 69% growth in the next six years. This represents a massive opportunity for our economy.

What do you see as the G.A.’s most important role in today’s business environment?

The G.A.’s most important role is to be a powerful voice for our members, supporting their growth and ensuring they feel heard. They play a vital part in the retail industry. We must drive policy changes that strengthen and expand the UK retail market.

How do you intend to strengthen the G.A.’s value for its members?

My first step will be to conduct a comprehensive review of our current offerings to identify our strengths and areas for development. I plan to personally connect with our members to understand their individual needs and desires. This direct feedback will be crucial in shaping our strategy and ensuring we are truly accountable for delivering tangible value that meets their specific requirements.

What’s your strategy for fostering collaboration across sectors - retailers, designers, manufacturers, and suppliers?

I have cultivated strong relationships with various stakeholders throughout my retail career, including retailers, designers, manufacturers, and suppliers. I will leverage this network and my understanding of the retail sector to nurture these connections and build upon the G.A.’s established heritage and reputation. My goal is to create an association that everyone in the industry is proud to be a part of, whether as a member or a service provider.

How do you plan to make the G.A. more visible and relevant - both within the industry and to external stakeholders like government or media?

I plan to increase the G.A.’s visibility and relevance by holding the association accountable to our members’ needs and demonstrating tangible results. By consistently delivering on our promises and showcasing the positive impact we have, we will solidify our reputation both within the industry and among external stakeholders like government and media.

How will you stay connected to the day-today challenges your members face - and ensure their voices are heard?

The most e ective way to stay connected is through deep engagement and strong relationships with our members. We already have excellent initiatives like workshops, trade days, and roundtables. I want to build on these by fostering an environment where members feel comfortable reaching out at any time, knowing they will be heard and listened to.

What’s one piece of advice you received early in your career that still guides you now?

The best piece of advice I received was to “take 10 seconds to think”. This simple yet powerful principle applies to so many situations. Whether it’s reviewing an email to ensure it will be well-received, or pausing to gather my thoughts before reacting passionately

to a topic, those 10 seconds have consistently helped me to communicate more e ectively and thoughtfully.

And an oldie but a classic: “You can do anything, but you can’t do everything.” Prioritise well, and build up your support network.

And finally, is there anything else you would like to add?

I’m incredibly enthusiastic about the future of the giftware industry and the pivotal role that the G.A. can play in its continued success. I’m committed to working collaboratively with our members and stakeholders to ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for all.

Licensed to sell

Sara Allbright , director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting , considers the recipe for success when it comes to licensed gift product

Should I license? This is a question we often get asked by brands looking to expand the reach and product range they are able to supply to customers, and it’s never a simple question to answer.

Licences have played a huge role in my buying career - and I’ve seen some great ones soar to successbut as consumer tastes and wants have changed, the licensed gift product has needed to evolve. No longer is it justified to ‘pattern slap’ onto mugs and tea towels; more sophisticated licences and indeed brand collaborations have developed between properties and producers.

So what makes a good licence? For me, licensing at its best is a clever and harmonious marriage of property and product. If it involves a pattern or artwork, then this has been thought about and applied as a considered placement on the product. It uses different scales and elements of the pattern, not just a repeat design covering every item.

I like it even more when you look at the product and think ‘I wish I’d thought of that.’ For instance, the clever use of Barratt’s sweets in partnership with supermarket chain Iceland to create a range of frozen foods - namely ice lollies - to me was just genius. This collaboration has resulted in a selection exclusively available at Iceland stores of flavours such as Fruit Salad, Flumps, Cola Bottles, Black Jack, Wham, and Dip Dab.

Greeting cards have often been the source and starting point for many a successful licence in the gifting sector in recent years. Sara Miller and Eleanor Bowmer are just two brands that come to mind.

‘’Licensing at its best is a clever and harmonious marriage of property and product’’

Being able to create designs that stand out in that product arena is no mean feat. But it also proves the ultimate test bed in terms of customer appetite for the style, when racked up against many other designers’ work.

That isn’t the end of the story though, as both those examples have been driven by entrepreneurial designers who have carefully and wisely chosen their licence partners. They have ensured that the way their illustrations have been used gives the brand cohesion across a variety of suppliers, and allows for new ranges and seasonality to be added year by year.

Success also comes with a licensed brand that has a story - a designer that is visible and consumers can relate to as the person behind the name, or a historical institution with archives that can be drawn upon with rich history and provenance.

So, what does licensed product offer the retailer? Well, often it means you can create a bigger collection of product to display that is multicategory, which in turn gives the brand authority and signals to the customer that they should engage with it. It’s also a great way to take something popular or trending in another market, sector, or media and create a commercial opportunity out of it.

Sara Allbright is a director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting, which is a consultancy firm with 100 years of retail experience that helps retailers and brands grow.

Prior to Retail100 Consulting, Sara worked in buying roles at John Lewis for 18 years, predominantly for home and seasonal categories, including eight years leading gift and home fragrance buying. She specialised in brand relationships and growing small emerging brands into market leaders. Sara is also experienced in own-label sourcing across multiple categories and countries.

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk

Visit: www.retail100consulting.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting

These elements allow a wider storytelling and content creation stream for the product, which can elevate it above other more manufactured or created properties that simply fulfil a design style or look.

Licences are certainly here to stay, and continue to evolve and exalt themselves - as both The Licensing Awards and the B&LLAs (Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards) stand testament to every year. The winners of these make a great place to start if you’re looking to explore these product ranges for your store.

Boom time for licensed giftware

Consumers expect more from licensed giftware - products must tell a story, tap into culture, feel personal, purposeful and relevant, says Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) event director  Ella Haynes

Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) is Europe’s only event for licensing, brand extension and brand collaborations. It returns to ExCeL London from October 7 to October 9 and is the number one opportunity for giftware retailers and manufacturers to discover thousands of brands their customers love under one roof. Brands like Pokémon, The Gru alo, Natural History Museum, Kellogg’s, and Van Gogh - all ripe for collaborating on beautiful giftware for all ages.   Brands shape who we are, what we do, and how we feel. From the clothes we wear (a scarf from the V&A, perhaps) and the food we eat (Peppa Pig cookies anyone?), to the Liverpool Football Club mugs we drink tea from, or the Minecraft blankets we curl up under to watch TV, collaborating with a beloved brand is one of the most valuable ways for brands, manufacturers and retailers to connect with consumers, expand reach, loyalty and revenue, and drive sustainable business growth.

Branded products help retailers and manufacturers stand out from the competition, giving consumers a chance to buy beautiful things featuring brands that they have an emotional connection with.

What’s more, we know brand licensing works - because trade organisation Licensing International has just valued the global licensing industry at more than $369.6 billion: a yearly uplift of 3.7%.

Last year, almost 1,500 retailers attended BLE including Asda, ASOS, Boots, Forbidden Planet, Frasers Group, Marks & Spencer, Next, Pets at Home, Poundland, Sainsbury’s, Selfridges, Tesco, and WHSmith and many more, to find new partners, network with retail peers and licensing industry professionals, and enjoy first class educational content curated by industry experts at License Global.

What’s new?

BLE is seeing strong growth in categories that present exciting opportunities for giftware businesses - especially

in the non-profit, museum and heritage sectors. This year’s line-up includes prestigious names such as the Natural History Museum, V&A, London Zoo, Ashmolean, RHS, Imperial War Museum and Save the Children: all o ering rich storytelling and highly giftable IP.

Art & design licensing continues to thrive too, with standout illustrators, visually-driven brands and fashion crossovers that work perfectly for licensed giftware. These sectors bring fresh inspiration and authentic partnerships that align with consumer demand for meaningful, designled products.

Opportunities

BLE is designed for small to medium-sized giftware businesses looking to enter or grow in the licensing space. A great place to start is with our free on-demand training, Licensing Unlockedand the first module is free.

Once registered, businesses can use the BLE Event Planner to browse 250-plus exhibitors and successfully pre-book meetings with brand owners of all sizes. Beyond meetings, the show floor is packed with ideas and IPs - from art and heritage to lifestyle - ready to inspire new giftware lines.

Dedicated networking events, from the new networking hub to social mixers, help businesses connect, discover trends and build partnerships. For many, simply walking the floor sparks ideas that translate directly into new products.

What: Brand Licensing Europe (BLE)

Where: ExCeL London

When: October 7-9

Email: BLEcustomerservice@informa.com   Visit: https://www.brandlicensing.eu

Brand boost

Licensed

products

are proving to be a key revenue driver for gift retailers. We ask suppliers for their views on trends and opportunities in this booming sector

What factors do you think contribute to creating a great licensed gift?

Trevor Cash, director of Mad Beauty: For us, it’s all about the element of storytelling, and connecting with the consumer by evoking emotions - be it nostalgia, or recognising beloved characters and moments from a film which we know will resonate with them. It’s not about ‘label slapping’. Where possible, items will be collectible, uniquely moulded, and never found elsewhere.

Zara Grindrod, sales and brand director of Rainbow Designs: It’s all about the right balance of quality, value for money, and a licence that customers instantly connect with. Trusted, recognisable brands often with a nostalgic connection, such as Paddington, Peter Rabbit, Disney Winnie the Pooh, and Harry Potter Wizarding World, make people feel confident about gifting - while our thoughtful designs and attention to detail ensure the product is as special as the character it represents.

Gemma Lewington, marketing Director of University Games and Lagoon: It comes down to the perfect mix of price point, value for money, and that all-important wow factor. A great licensed gift should feature a brand that people feel 100% confident and proud to give.

You really can’t go wrong with classic licences that tap into nostalgia - like Bullseye and Subbuteo - or beloved children’s literature brands such as Roald Dahl, The World of David Walliams, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Dog Man. These brands bring instant recognition, trust, and joy, making them ideal for gifting. What sources are currently driving the popularity of licensed products?

Trevor: Film is definitely still a main driver, but in recent years we’ve noticed an increase in licensing supporting popular cult TV shows, such as ‘Friends’ for example.

Zara: Timeless storybooks, classic TV shows, and muchloved film adaptations remain the strongest drivers.

Characters like Paddington, Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh, and now Mr. Men Little Miss have a cross-generational appeal, often rediscovered through new TV series, streaming platforms, and film releases, keeping them fresh and relevant for today’s gift buyers.

Gemma: TV, film, and online platforms remain powerful drivers, but we’re also seeing strong momentum from sports brands. Our fantastic relationships with UK football clubs have paid dividends in recent years, as football is a hugely influential space

for licensed gifting, and our Subbuteo, 3D Stadium Puzzles and Rubik’s Cube ranges continue to thrive.

We traditionally focus on evergreen book-style licences, which align well with our brand. Titles like Roald Dahl or The Very Hungry Caterpillar never go out of style. That said, non-book properties like Bullseye and Pointless are household names with built-in fanbases, making them ideal additions to our catalogue. Any trends we should look out for?

Trevor: If there’s one thing to note about Mad Beauty it’s that we don’t follow trends; the beauty is in unique creativity.

Zara: Collectability continues to be a driving trend in the gift sector, and the popularity of our new Mr Men Little Miss range is a perfect example. With large cuddly cushions, soft toys, and plush keychains featuring iconic characters like Mr Bump, Mr Strong, Little Miss Sunshine, and Little Miss Princess, there’s a personality to suit everyone - and they’re ideal for gifting, treasuring, and collecting.

Gemma: Ultimately, the most successful licences are those that spark an emotional connection and o er broad family appeal. In addition to sports licensing, nostalgia continues to be a powerful trend, especially in the games and puzzles space and childhood book properties.

Classic TV shows and retro brands continue to resonate strongly with both gift buyers and consumers. We’re seeing great success with TV titles like Bullseye, Pointless, and literary favourites such as Roald Dahl, The World of David Walliams, Paddington, and Dog Man.

Anything in the pipeline for this sector?

Trevor: We’ve got several exciting projects. Watch this space!

Zara: A trend playing a large part in the gifting sector is Kawaii - Japan’s beloved culture phenomenon - and we’re very excited to be welcoming a new brand in this growing genre into our character collection for 2026. But you’ll have to wait a little longer for the announcement!

Gemma: We have plenty in the pipeline for 2026. Paddington is well known across generations and always o ers a sought-after gift, and we have some very exciting developments coming to our Paddington range in 2026 and 2027.

We’re also expanding our hugely popular Licensed Football Club range with additional lines that are set to be brilliant gifts for fans of all ages. Football continues to be a strong performer in the gifting space, and these new additions will o er even more choice for retailers looking to tap into that passion.

Candlelight celebrates new licensing partnership with Historic Royal Palaces for elegant tableware range…

Candlelight Products is delighted to announce a new licensing partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that cares for the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace, and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Bringing a sophisticated collection of royal-inspired tableware to the market, this exclusive range will debut at Autumn Fair.

This elegant collection includes beautifully designed placemats and coasters, ornate cutlery and serving utensils, mugs, and butter dishes. One of the standout themes is the Pineapple Collection, featuring a damask pattern inspired by the rich emerald green wallpapers found throughout the royal palace interiors and the pineapple motif.

Historically, a symbol of wealth and hospitality, the pineapple reflects a legacy of luxury - “a pineapple of the finest flavour” was a popular phrase used in the 1770s to describe something truly exceptional. This thoughtful design makes the collection ideal for gifting and for those looking to bring a touch of regal charm to their dining experience.

“We are proud to partner with Historic Royal Palaces and to offer a collection that blends historic elegance with everyday functionality,” said Tommy Bartles, head of Candlelight brand. “This is a celebration of British heritage, made for the modern home.”

… and Candlelight Home unveils new

Jeff

Banks Home range

Candlelight Home is set to unveil a stunning new Jeff Banks Home range at Autumn Fair. Building on its successful partnership with the iconic British designer, this latest launch represents a bold expansion of the Jeff Banks home offering - with significant investment driving growth across homewares, fragrance, and dining.

The new range promises a sophisticated blend of modern British design and practical elegance, capturing the distinctive Jeff Banks aesthetic that continues to resonate with consumers. Buyers at Autumn Fair will be among the first to preview the collection, which showcases Candlelight Home’s commitment to quality, trend-led innovation, and brand strength.

With an established licensing relationship already in place, this new chapter highlights Candlelight’s long-term vision for the Jeff Banks brand in the home and lifestyle sector. The launch is expected to generate strong interest from retailers seeking premium, design-led products with proven market appeal.

Call: 01709 723000

Email: contact@candlelight.co.uk

Visit: www.candlelight.co.uk

More Moomins

Charlie Bears

This October, collectable bear brand Charlie Bears unveils the second instalment of its collaboration with beloved Nordic brand Moomin.The licensing partnership brings to life an exquisite collection of handcrafted Moomin characters, that o er a luxury gifting solution tailored to discerning Moomin fans, as well as Charlie Bears’ global following of collectors.

The exclusive Charlie Bears Signature Moomin Collection features nine meticulously crafted, limited-edition characters that capture the magic of Tove Jansson’s Moomin stories. The iconic characters have been reimagined through the artistry and detail synonymous with Charlie Bears’ dedication to the traditional, time-honoured techniques of teddy bear craftsmanship.

Each character - from Moomintroll to Fillyjonk - is made from the finest materials and designed for display and legacy gifting. With global Moomin fandom on the rise, this premium o ering answers a growing demand for high-quality, character-driven gifts.

Call: 01566 777092

Email: uk-sales@charliebears.com

Visit: www.charliebears.co.uk

Sweet regional treats Emma Lawrence Designs

With heartwarming, hand-drawn illustrations and designs to make you smile, illustrator Emma Lawrence of Emma Lawrence Designs has recently added to her growing licensing portfolio.

Farrah’s of Harrogate has just launched a new range of location-themed confectionery, covering 10 key areas of the UK. Filled with beautiful illustrations and careful detail, each region has been thoughtfully researched by Emma and includes the county flowers, famous landmarks, local produce and well-known breeds of animals.

Each themed range has 10 di erent products, ranging from chocolate bars and travel sweets to cookies, fudge and tea. There are already plans to create further ranges, and the benefit of working with Emma - who has a vast portfolio of assets - is that she can also create designs for bespoke customers, giving them something appealing, eyecatching and di erent.

Farrah’s managing director Peter Marston said: “Meeting Emma and seeing her work for the first time at Spring Fair was the best thing to come out of the show for me! The regional confectionery designs that Emma has created are just brilliant, and really complement our new in-house box printing capability.

“Her designs are unique and highlight each region’s landmarks and personality to create a fun and light-hearted range. There’s everything from a lion wearing a crown to a dog driving a campervan!”

Emma commented: “It’s a privilege and compliment to be working with such an established brand. I’m excited to see what we develop together.”

Emma Lawrence Designs

Call: 0780 1442924

Email: emma@emmalawrence.com

Visit: www.emmalawrence.com

Farrah’s of Harrogate

Call: 01423 883000

Email: enquiries@farrahs.com

Visit: www.farrahs.com

For Potterheads

Mad Beauty

British gifting brand Mad Beauty has announced the launch of its latest collaboration: a brand-new Harry Potter-inspired beauty collection, developed in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), which arrives this autumn.

From intricate designs to nostalgic references inspired by the Harry Potter films, each product in the 19-piece collection has been crafted to deliver both functionality and wonder, harnessing Mad Beauty’s unique design flair to deliver beauty gifting with a twist of enchantment.

Mad Beauty director Trevor Cash comments: “Already proud recipients of awards as a WBDGCP licensee, we’ve earned a reputation for our innovative products. The opportunity to tell stories through products is what drives us, so this collaboration felt like it was made for us.

“From intricately crafted 3D tooling to inventive, collectible packaging, every detail is thoughtfully designed with added-value touches that surprise and delight our customers. We hope that this new collection will resonate with all fans - rekindling cherished childhood memories, while building excitement for the magical adventures yet to come.”

Call: 0208 958 0555

Email: sales@madbeauty.com

Visit: www.madbeauty.com

Gifts for every generation Rainbow Designs

Rainbow Designs brings to life some of the most beloved characters in children’s literature and entertainment, with a beautiful collection of licensed soft toys and gifts, perfect for those special occasions.

Bestselling character ranges include Paddington, Peter Rabbit, Guess How Much I Love You, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, and a new colourful addition this autumn: the Mr. Men Little Miss collection. Combining classic charm with contemporary appeal, Rainbow’s licensed character collections o er treasured gifts for all ages.

A cherished British brand for more than 50 years, Mr. Men Little Miss has captured the hearts of generations with its colourful characters and distinctive personalities. Rainbow’s vibrant new range includes large, huggable cushions, collectible soft toys, and plush keychains, featuring favourites such as Mr. Tickle, Mr. Happy, Mr. Bump, and Mr. Strong, alongside Little Miss Hug, Little Miss Sunshine, Little Miss Princess, and Little Miss Chatterbox. Perfect for gifting, this playful collection is sure to bring smiles to both children and nostalgic adults alike.

The nation’s favourite bear stars in three of Rainbow’s most popular licensed collections, catering to fans of every age. The refreshed Paddington for Baby range o ers nursery toys, comforters, and rattles, that make wonderful gifts for newborns and young babies.

For preschoolers, The Adventures of Paddington range is packed with fun and engaging toys, while the bestselling premium Classic Paddington collection makes a heartfelt keepsake gift for any admirer of Michael Bond’s timeless character.

Beatrix Potter’s mischievous bunny continues to be a firm favourite with Rainbow customers. The extensive Peter Rabbit collection spans adorable infant plush and high-quality developmental wooden toys.

Bestsellers include My First Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny soft toys, along with sensory and developmental plush for the youngest of fans. For all ages, the Playtime Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny soft toys remain perennial favourites.

The range also features illustrated Picture Dominoes, a Wooden Shape Sorter, Wooden Picture Blocks, and the ever-popular Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny PullAlong toys: perfect for imaginative play.

From nursery gifts to keepsakes, Rainbow Designs’ licensed character collections o er retailers a trusted choice for meaningful, high-quality gifts that resonate across generations.

Call: 01329 227300

Email: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Visit: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

From pitch to playroom University Games and Lagoon

University Games and Lagoon’s extensive games and puzzles catalogue is bursting with iconic brands from the world of TV and Premier League football, to the best-loved characters from children’s literature.

The FA O cial England and Lionesses, Liverpool FC and the UEFA Champions League licensed editions are just some of the Main Games available in University Games’ Subbuteo range. Encompassing all ages and abilities, this best-selling table football brand continues to enjoy a major resurgence as new generations discover the thrill of its strategic gameplay and competitive spirit.

University Games’ licensed football theme continues with an extensive range of 3D Football Stadiums and Rubik’s Cubes, blending a truly challenging puzzle with team pride. Featuring Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham, and Tottenham Hotspur, along with Wembley Stadium and an England Rubik’s Cube, these puzzles are a trophy-worthy addition to any fan’s collection.

Bestselling licensed family games in the University Games range include the beat-busting Now That’s What I Call Music and The Rocky Horror Show board games, alongside games based on the ever-popular TV quiz shows, Pointless and Bullseye.

University Games is best known and loved for its extensive preschool and children’s portfolio, which features detailed games play encompassing the most adored childhood stories and characters.

From Paddington, Dog Man, and Roald Dahl’s beloved Matilda, Charlie and The BFG, to The Tiger Who Came to Tea, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Mog and Dinosaur Roar, these standalone ranges, that include entertaining and educational games, puzzles and card games, are all hot favourites with the early years and their parents.

Call: 0207 254 0100

Email: sales@ugames.uk.com

Visit: www.university-games.co.uk

Turn up the glow

Candlelight is hitting TV screens with a strategically timed advertising campaign spotlighting its home fragrance and brand-new bath and body care range, while underlining its commitment to a ordable luxury, to capture new customers and support retail partners

Home fragrance and lifestyle brand Candlelight has launched its first nationwide TV advertising campaign as part of a major marketing push to raise brand awareness and drive sales across the UK.

The campaign highlights the brand’s signature style, high-quality products, and a ordable luxury, encouraging viewers to discover and purchase the Candlelight

“This marks an exciting milestone for Candlelight”

range at most good garden centres, independent retailers, and other trusted stockists.

With a focus on warmth, mood, and modern living, the campaign taps into the growing consumer demand for thoughtfully designed, beautifully packaged home décor items.

The advert will launch at Autumn Fair and on national TV, running across October, November, March, and April. Strategically timed to boost footfall at stockists during Candlelight’s busiest seasonal periods, the ad is set to air across major channels, targeting key demographics at prime times.

Aimed at strengthening Candlelight’s position in the home and gifting sector, the advert showcases its wide collection of scented candles, reed di users, and brand-new bath and body care range.

Candlelight head of sales and marketing Kate Winch said: “This marks an exciting milestone for Candlelight. Our goal is to become a go-to brand for customers looking for a ordable, elegant additions to their homes or thoughtful gifts. TV o ers us the perfect platform to tell our story and connect with a wider audience.”

With stock available at most garden centres, local independents and select retailers nationwide, Candlelight invites consumers to experience the brand’s charm first-hand. The TV campaign is expected to significantly boost both footfall and interest in Candlelight’s ever-expanding brand.

Autumn Fair Stand: Hall 7 F31, F44

Call: 01709 723000

Email: contact@candlelight.co.uk Visit: www.candlelight.co.uk

Comfort you

Warmies is celebrating 30 years of warmth, wellness,

For more than three decades, Warmies has been a comforting presence in millions of homes around the world. As a global name in heatable soft toys and wellness products, the brand has mastered the art of combining soothing warmth, scent, softness, and emotional care in one irresistible package.

From microwaveable plush toys to wellness wraps and its new trend-led collections, Warmies continues to innovate without losing sight of its core mission: bringing comfort into everyday life.

From the very beginning, Warmies says it has pioneered this category, introducing Europe’s first microwaveable heat pack and evolving into a name that now resonates across generations.

Millions of products sold worldwide and a presence in more than 30 countries globally is no small feat, and neither is maintaining relevance in a fast-paced retail world. But Warmies has done it by staying true to its DNA, while evolving its look, feel, and product range with the times.

“Our products aren’t just cute, they’re created to support wellbeing,” says the team behind Warmies. “We’ve always believed comfort isn’t just physicalit’s emotional. Our products are companions.”

More than just plush

At the heart of every Warmies product is its multisensory design. Whether o ering warmth for winter chills, cooling relief for summer heatwaves, soothing lavender scent to calm anxious minds, or just a reassuring weight to relax the body, each item is made to bring real value to the user. And it’s this blend of practical comfort with emotional resonance that keeps customers coming back.

The brand’s tagline of “Feel the Love” is more

and heart in every hug

than marketing. In fact, up to 80% of customer reviews mention the word ‘love’ - a testament to the genuine connection people feel with their Warmies. Whether it’s a child’s bedtime companion, a parent’s moment of peace, or a workplace desk buddy, Warmies are as versatile as they are huggable.

Always looking ahead

This year marks a new era for Warmies, with fresh energy coming from the appointment of Amelia Fordham as Head of Marketing. Her vision is clear: elevate the brand, deepen connections, and make Warmies a household name not just in the US, where it already enjoys huge recognition, but across the UK and Europe as well.

That momentum is already in motion. Warmies is tapping into collectible culture with the launch of keyrings, bag charms, and mini plush toys which are small, a ordable, and ultra-giftable. These additions build on nostalgic favourites like the Dusty Pups, making the Warmies experience more accessible than ever.

“Our customers asked for smaller, more portable options, and we listened,” says the Warmies team. “This is comfort that fits in your hand, pocket, or bag - always with you, whenever you need it.”

Global presence, local connection

With a footprint in tens of thousands of retail stores globally, you might expect the personal touch to get lost. But Warmies defies that expectation. Through social media and community engagement, the brand maintains direct, twoway conversations with its customers. It shares

can feel

behind-the-scenes moments, exclusive product launches, and even listens to real-time feedback, turning customers into fans, and fans into ambassadors.

Retailers are also central to the Warmies strategy. Exclusive CDU display ranges, designed just for in-store partners, are one way in which the brand continues to support retail communities, while o ering unique finds for collectors and new customers alike.

Nostalgia meets newness

Licensing has opened another exciting chapter for Warmies, pairing its comforting designs with some of the world’s most beloved characters.

From classic icons such as Bagpuss, Peter Rabbit and Mi y, to fresh faces like Teletubbies and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, these collaborations blend heritage with the heartfelt appeal of Warmies’ design.

“We choose partners that align with our values - comfort, nostalgia, emotional warmth,” says the Warmies team. “These characters feel like home, and that’s exactly the feeling we aim to deliver.”

What’s next for Warmies?

As Warmies moves into its next decade, it’s not about chasing trends, it’s about setting them.

Email: sales@warmies.co.uk

Visit: www.warmies.co.uk

The company is investing in more UK-based production to reduce its environmental impact, and constantly refining quality and safety standards that already exceed regulations.

From wellbeing products and classic plush to playful collectibles and licensed designs, the goal remains the same: to make comfort universal, and Warmies a name synonymous with care.

So whether you’re reaching for a Warmies plush after a long day, gifting a mini to a friend in need, or treating yourself to a scented wrap, one thing’s for sure: you’re not just buying a product. You’re bringing home a little love.

‘A gift showcase like no other’

Autumn Fair returns to NEC Birmingham from September 7 to September 10, and is set to redefine retail sourcing with a gathering of over 800 leading brands and 12,000-plus buyers

At the heart of this year’s edition of Autumn Fair is a powerhouse line-up of industry favourites, bestselling brands, and rising stars who use the show as the perfect stage to unveil new products.

The 2025 event is already breaking records, with a significant percentage of new-to-show brands and exclusive exhibitors. With more than 30% of exhibitors exclusive to Autumn Fair, and many brands using the show to launch seasonal collections, it’s the ideal place for buyers to refresh stock, discover standout products, and build new brand relationships.

Offering 10 expertly curated show destinations including Gift; Home, Living & Décor; Greeting Cards, Stationery & Wrapping; Beauty & Wellbeing; Kids Toys & Play; and Everyday, the Fair is described as the ultimate sourcing space for trend-driven, season-ready giftware.

Buyers will find must-have collections from Candlelight, Bedeck, Ty UK, Gingko, Gift Republic, Widdop & Co., Kikkerland, Sass & Belle, Bomb Cosmetics, Five Dollar Shake, Ohh Deer, The English Soap Company, Toasted Crumpet, Spice Kitchen, Langs, Rex London, Lesser & Pavey Bubblegum Stuff Fikkerts and hundreds more - with many introducing new seasonal ranges exclusively at the show. And don’t miss the debut of Greetings Lab, showcasing original designs from exciting new talent. Autumn Fair also continues its support of breakthrough brands via the New Business Pavilion. Retailers will discover debut artisans such as Tarro Skincare The Tipsy Candle Co, Izzoo, Danla, EMR Sensitivity, Little Paws Big Memories, Naturally Nepal, and The Artistic Wanderer, which are redefining product categories with design-led, sustainable, and story-driven work.

Meanwhile, the new Taste at Autumn Fair Pavilion introduces edible gifting and gourmet treats with live sampling, tapping into retailers’ growing demand for foodled gift experiences.

And The Summer House Edit returns with a curated edit of high-end furnishings, décor and gifts. From Scandinavian influence, to rustic, chic, and even artisanal and quirky styles thrown into the mix, this is a must-visit destination.

With its finger firmly on the pulse of emerging trends, this sector is the beacon of taste, showcasing unrivalled design and elegance from international and UK brands including Bronte by Moon, Bedeck, Biggie Best, Casa Verde UK, Culinary Concepts, DM Brands, Edge Company, Hot Tomato, My Gifts Trade, Nordic Style, and many more.

Autumn Fair’s strength lies in its diverse product mix, meaning fashion, gift and lifestyle retailers can explore opportunities well beyond their core categories. It’s the ideal sourcing ground for retailers looking to broaden their creative and seasonal offering.

But the show delivers more than product discovery; it’s an experience hub designed to equip retailers for success.

The reimagined Retail Corner stage features expert-led workshops, practical masterclasses, and trend intelligence from BDA London. Expect inspiring keynotes from retail leaders including Harriet Hastings (Biscuiteers), Bruce Langlands (Trotters), and Priya Aurora-Crowe (Lark London).

Pitch Live gives exhibitors a platform to showcase innovation, while Buyers Retreat offers a peaceful space for meetings and peer-led workshops. All buyers also benefit from a buyer’s benefit package (saving £30+ per day) which includes free parking, complimentary tea, coffee, and water, and free cloakrooms in the Buyers Retreat.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this key buying event at the heart of retail’s peak season. Whether restocking for Q4, discovering new ranges, or forging new supplier relationships, Autumn Fair remains an essential event for the retail trade calendar.

What: Autumn Fair

Where: NEC, Birmingham

When: September 7-10

Visit: www.autumnfair.com

National TV Ad Campaign for Autumn/Winter

Come and Visit us at the NEC Autumn Fair!

Hall 7 | Stand F44 &

F31

We’re lighting up homes nationwide with our stunning new Candlelight brand TV campaign and it’s sending shoppers straight to you, our trusted local retailers and garden centres! Make sure your shelves are stocked to meet the demand. Not currently a stockist? Don’t miss out, book a consultation with us at the NEC Autumn Fair, Hall 7, Stand F44 & F31.

Let’s work together to turn inspiration into sales. Visit us, explore our latest collections, and join the growing family of retailers bringing Candlelight into homes everywhere. Be ready when customers come calling!

Want to book a consul tation during the Autumn Fair?

Get in touch with our sales team at contact@candlelight.co.u k or call 01709 723000 for more information

“An

unrivalled platform”

Autumn Fair event director Soraya Gadelrab tells Gifts Today why it remains an essential sourcing event - from finalising Christmas ranges and finding new brands to tapping into trends, exclusive buyer perks, and game-changing insights that shape retail success

Why is Autumn Fair such a crucial event for the gift industry?

Autumn Fair is where the UK retail industry comes together. The timing, breadth of sectors, diversity of product categories, and sheer scale of the event make it a vital touchpoint for sourcing and forward planning. It’s also a place to gather market insight, spot trends, and build relationships that can shape the year ahead.

Why is it so important to gift retailers?

Autumn Fair sits at a perfect point in the buying calendar for Q4 preparation and beyond into next year. Retailers can finalise their Christmas ranges as well as other key dates like Valentine’s Day and Easter, top up on bestsellers, and discover last-minute hero products that will drive sales. The show enables retailers to make strategic buying decisions that maximise profit potential, while staying ahead of consumer demand.

What benefits does the show bring to gift exhibitors?

Autumn Fair is where sales happen. It puts exhibitors in front of more than 12,000 purchase-ready buyers - including 10,000 UK independents - who come with the intention to place orders and source new products ahead of the busiest retail season.

It’s an unrivalled platform to launch collections, tell your brand story, and secure both immediate sales and long-term partnerships. Exhibitors benefit from direct access to a highly engaged audience, from local store owners to international decision-makers.

Have There been any format changes this year that could help retailers plan their visits more effectively?

Yes. We’ve made the show easier to navigate with clearer sector zoning and improved floor layouts. Our newly reimagined feature areas Retail Corner and Buyers Retreat are packed with fresh content, practical insights, and real support, all designed to help independent retailers grow, adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Practical, short-form sessions slot easily around buying schedules, ensuring retailers can learn without missing time on the show floor.

The Retail Corner stage is where the future of retail gets real. This isn’t just another seminar space; it’s where game-changing ideas collide with the minds that make them happen. Cut through the noise with expert masterclasses, trend forecasts from our official trends partner BDA London, and no-filter conversations with industry legends and disruptors. Retail Corner is your front-row seat to the conversations that matter, the strategies that work, and the stories that prove anything is possible in retail.

Buyers Retreat offers a peaceful space to recharge, network, and plan the day strategically. It also plays host to Retailer Social Workshops hosted by retail experts, offering a unique mix of practical insights, creative thinking and peer-to-peer connection - think part workshop, part creative sandbox and part retailer therapy. All buyers also enjoy perks like free parking, cloakroom, and refreshments. It’s everything you need to buy smarter, sell better, and thrive in a fast-moving market.

Any show highlights or features we can look forward to?

One of the most exciting initiatives is our Retail Makeover Mission. We’ve given two incredible independent retailers a full store transformation from layout to product curation, helping them boost footfall and sales.

We’ll be bringing this transformation to life at the show as a showcase for other retailers, as well as offering access to the task team of experts who have transformed the retailers, so they can share their expertise.

Alongside this, our partnership with BDA London will bring daily future trends presentations, giving visitors invaluable insight into AW26/27 across homeware, festive, kids, and fashion. And of course, our Pitch Live competition will spotlight the most innovative products from across the show.

On the show floor, don’t miss the New Business Pavilions - full of the newest and most exciting creatives - as well as the new Taste at Autumn Fair Pavilion, which introduces edible gifting and gourmet treats with live sampling, tapping into retailers’ growing demand for food-led gift experiences.

Finally, what can first-time visitors do to get the most out of their Autumn Fair experience?

Preparation is key. I always recommend planning your visit using our online exhibitor list and show sectors, so you can prioritise your must-see brands. Build in time for trend talks and feature areas. These sessions can spark fresh ideas and help you make more informed buying decisions. We’re also running Guided Trails, aimed at new visitors, to help them get the best out of their experience.

And don’t forget to leave room in your schedule for serendipity; some of the best finds happen when you wander the aisles and stumble across something unexpected.

www.autumnfair.com

Festive favourites with a fresh twist

Best Kept Secrets will unveil Christmas bestsellers and new launches at Autumn Fair, as it gears

Best Kept Secrets is heading into Autumn Fair with a collection of festive favourites guaranteed to capture attention. Fresh from moving into larger premises earlier this year, the business is now better placed than ever to meet demand, hold stock, and support retailers through the all-important Christmas season.

Taking pride of place on the stand will be The Red One: its fast-rising bestseller that flew o shelves last year. Rich fragrances, bold presentation, and sparkling detail make the range a go-to choice for retailers and customers alike. With forward orders already strong, the collection is set to shine once again in 2025.

Building on this momentum, Best Kept Secrets is launching a new twist on the collection with Just Because Duos - The Red One Edition. Each colourful grab-and-go gift bag pairs two themed tin candles with complementary seasonal sentiments such as “Merry Christmas” and “Happy New Year”. Priced at an accessible £10, they o er retailers a quick-win option for customers looking for thoughtful, ready-to-gift products.

Best Kept Secrets managing director Vanessa Curry says: “We know how important it is for retailers to have a ordable, gift-ready options that still feel special. The Duos deliver just that - a candle that sparkles, a message that resonates, and packaging that does the selling for you.”

The stand will also showcase Christmas Elegance, another proven favourite. Packaged in sophisticated gold tins, the range has timeless appeal and consistently strong repeat sales. It o ers buyers a classic option that works across a wide range of retail environments, from independents to garden centres.

Behind the scenes, the company’s move to a bigger home has been a game-changer. The new site gives the team the space to increase production, hold more stock, and even pack and store customer Christmas orders in advance. For smaller retailers who can’t always hold large volumes of stock themselves, this extra capacity means peace of mind and reliable availability right up to Christmas Eve.

For Vanessa, Autumn Fair remains an important date in the diary. “Buyers at Autumn Fair are serious - they’re ready to place their orders and want stock they can rely on,” she says. “For us, it’s about being there with the right product, the right support, and plenty of festive sparkle.”

Exciting times

Buoyed by three years of growth, Signare Tapestry head of sales Paul Travis shares his 2025 highlights with Gifts Today, from hit heritage designs and on-trend shapes, to new product ranges - and a hint of an exciting fashion brand launch already on the horizon

How has the first half of the year panned out?

We had a very strong Spring Fair. Introductions including the Harry Potter-inspired “Magic Cat,” “Walter Crane Swan” and “Bullrush” have been a huge success in the heritage sector. We continued to have strong growth for the third year in succession and expect that to continue in the second half.

Do you have a strong new offering for the second half?

Definitely! We have three very strong design launches. There’s the William Morris-inspired “Pomegranate” across the full range of bags, and “Lordship & Ladyship,” which is ideal for our heritage customers - many of whom carry this design supplied by my associated company CD Heritage: a proven winner! Finally, I predict the British Museum licensed design “Great Wave of Kanagawa” will be a leading design in the marketplace.

What about new shapes and products?

We have new introductions at both ends of our ranges. At the lower end, there’s a new glasses case with a fantastic RRP of £9.99, and a “Bucket Bag” which is completely on trend, especially with younger people in mind, with an RRP of £44.99. These new items will be available in September across 12 designs.

We are also diversifying into fine bone china mugs, printed textiles, tea towels and aprons - all made in the UK - giving a broader offering to our customers.

We will initially launch “Pomegranate” and “Lordship & Ladyship” along with “Walter Crane Swan” at Autumn Fair.

Looking ahead, are there any major developments planned for Signare that you can share?

Not for 2025, but we will be launching a new fashion brand in 2026 under a new brand“Signare London” - taking us into the mid-market with new styles and alternative materials, adding to the tapestry bags. It’s all very exciting, so watch this space for more news in December!

Stand: Hall 6 F16

Call: 01276 29483

Email: info@signaretrade.co.uk Visit: www.signaretrade.co.uk

Gifts galore

Lesser & Pavey will showcase an abundance of newness at Autumn Fair, from floral ornaments and mugs to fragranced products and much more

Mini Bricks

Lesser & Pavey will introduce a brand-new range for younger consumers at Autumn Fair, as well as enticing mums, grandparents to get involved in building floral delights.

Mini Bricks are presented in colourful gift boxes which depict the item when built, with step-by-step instructions inside on how to make a perfect static floral ornament.

There are three ranges. The first is aimed at the younger builders; garden insects depict, when built, six floral designs featuring a flower in a pot with an accompanying fun bug. The second range of six pieces encourages grandparents and mums to get involved in building the bricks to make a floral gift to enhance the home. It comprises a flowerpot and floral arrangement with six themes. The third range, once built, is captured in a dome to ensure the bricks stay in place.

With bright colours, and offering fun for all ages, this is a must for any retailer serving the six years and over age group.

Birdlife captured

British artist Clemency Bunn has provided a cheeky range of bird illustrations for Lesser & Pavey’s mugs, which come in special circular window gift boxes to allow a peek inside at the antics of our feathered friends.

Each quality china white mug features two illustrations, such as a cheeky seagull with a chip in his beak on one side, with the other side depicting this seaside bird.  Each bird has two designs per fine china mug, featuring a Puffin, Robin, Duck and Owl. Four of the bird illustrations are available in a gift box stack, while another four feature on a collection of china egg cups.

Bubbling over

Lesser & Pavey is delighted to offer a new range of fragranced products to help you relax and unwind this autumn. Ideal for Mother’s Day or the special lady in your life, the Madelaine Cosmetic and Bath and Body Gift sets make perfect gifts. Beautifully packaged, they include hand and lip care, soap and

hand cream, bath fizzers, hand wash and cream, a bath and shower set with a foaming sponge, and a five-piece pamper set with a complementary sponge. Some of the range carries illustrations from the highly popular William Morris design with complementary fragrances of Willow Bough (fresh linen), Fruits (lemon and pomegranate), Lodden (fresh linen), Redoute Rose (velvet rose), and bold pinks of cherry blossom and vanilla. Others depict the fragrance in coloured packaging and transparent panels to view the quality of the enclosed items.

William Morris

Thanks to the original talent of Wiliam Morris, Lesser & Pavey has expertly captured the coarse leaves of the artichoke plant in a subtle way of mellow green shades on tableware. Continuing the success of its tabletop collections, this is set for prominence as it covers fine china mugs, canisters, tea for one, teaspoon holders, a chopping board, and a butter dish.

Statement pieces

This autumn will see more from the Desire range of fragranced products. The 20cm tall glass vase holds a soya candle with three wicks and comes in white and grey swirls, speckled patterns, a coffee brown base with charcoal animal print, and creams with whirls of toffee.

Added to these candles are larger statement diffusers in masculine shades of coffee, tobacco and rum, as well as modular square glassware in cranberry, green and neutral shades. Large reeds which stand tall at 1L and 2 lL capture classic masculine fragrances including Azure, Suave, Oud Wood, Aventi, Coco, Liberty and Rouge. Lesser & Pavey also has ranges of smaller candles and diffusers, refills and fragrance room sprays.

A treasure

trove

Autumn Fair continues to be a cornerstone event in the giftware industry, and this year is shaping up to be as exciting as ever.

Located in Hall 7 C40-E41, Joe Davies is ready to welcome loyal and first-time visitors to its stand. From contemporary home décor and thoughtful celebration gifts to must-have jewellery and fashion accessories, there’s something to inspire buyers from all sectors.

Gentleman Joe

Joe Davies is shaking up men’s gifting with ‘Gentleman Joe Man Wash Soap. But Manlier’: a seriously bold range of soaps designed with grit, humour and unapologetic masculinity. Split across two punchy collections - Original and Classic - each bar is packed with personality, including customer favourites like the S.A.S Bar (Seriously Awesome Soap), D.A.D Bar (Dirt And Device), and the hilariously honest Muck & Muscle and Grafters Bar.

From sandalwood & masculinity to dark fruit & freedom, every bar blends rugged scents with tongue-in-cheek copy, making them the perfect gift for men who like their grooming with a side of attitude.

Equilibrium Tassel collection

Joe Davies has introduced no fewer than four new A/W jewellery collections within the ever-popular Equilibrium range, and the spotlight shines brightly on the exquisite new Tassel Collection. A seamless fusion of trend-led design and timeless elegance, this collection embodies understated sophistication with every piece.

Delicately crafted and plated in real silver or gold, each item showcases an exceptional attention to detail. Intricate tassel elements bring graceful movement, while select styles are beautifully embellished with gemstones, o ering a subtle sparkle that e ortlessly enhances both casual and occasion wear.

Equilibrium ladies’ fashion accessories

The Equilibrium ladies’ fashion accessories collection captures the essence of the season with on-trend textures and eye-catching designs. With a focus on faux sheepskin, faux fur and animal prints, this stylish range reflects the key fashion influences set to make a statement in the coming colder months. Blending warmth with contemporary flair, the collection is both functional and fashion-forward.

Discover an array of scarves, from modern chunky wraps to lighter, more versatile styles. Elegant embellishments such as foiling, pearls and rhinestones bring a touch of glamour to everyday essentials. The Equilibrium collection of gloves o ers cosy comfort in one-size-fits-all luxurious stretch fabrics, while the wide range of hats adds playful personality with charming pompom styles and snug bucket hats. Many of the accessories are presented in Equilibrium branded boxes, ensuring a strong visual appeal - but most importantly, making them perfectly suited to give as a gift at this busy time of the year.

Woodland Robin

Joe Davies is proud to introduce Woodland Robin: a beautifully illustrated new gift range created in collaboration with Manchester-based artist Susan Wheeler, known for her charming fabric designs and distinctive storytelling style.

Blending gentle woodland scenes, uplifting messages and warm natural tones, Woodland Robin includes ceramic oil burners, tealight holders, hanging plaques, keyrings, and house-shaped plaques - each piece adorned with delicate hand-drawn motifs of robins, flowers, and friendly woodland creatures. The range taps into the enduring popularity of sentiment gifting and is perfect for year-round gift giving.

So, whether you’re giving your seasonal range a boost, or looking for something fresh and inspiring for the busy Christmas period, be sure to visit the Joe Davies stand. With friendly faces, a treasure trove of exciting new products, and its flexible ‘little and often’ ordering approach, this really is a must-visit destination. The team looks forward to welcoming you and helping to make this festive season your most successful yet!

A sneak peek of summer 2026

At Autumn Fair, you’ll have the chance to enjoy an early first look at Langs ’ upcoming collections for the second quarter of next year

As the warm days and long evenings of summer draw to a close, Langs is delighted to share a first glimpse of what’s waiting just over the horizon. Its Golden Days of Summer showcase is more than a celebration of the season - it’s your exclusive preview of the new collections arriving for 2026.

This pre-launch reveal brings together a handpicked selection of ranges that will officially debut at Autumn Fair. From breezy Coastal Escape inspired by the charm of the seaside, to the heartwarming Barnyard Friends for new baby gifting, and the romantic Naturally Yours wedding collection with its delicate hand-painted wildflowers, each collection is designed to inspire and delight.

The company is also introducing shimmering Tranquillity Stones, along with other fresh designs that will be available for pre-order at the Fair, online, or with your agent - all ready for delivery in 2026. Be the first to explore the trends, treasures, and timeless gifts that will shape the second quarter of the year.

Coastal Escape

Embrace the charm of the seaside with the Ocean Treasures gift range. In this vibrant celebration of coastal life, which features bold lobster and octopus designs, natural textures meet playful nautical design. From striking ceramics and printed textiles to charming décor accents, each piece transports the beauty of the sea straight into the home, bringing together mango wood pieces and Langs’ stoneware tealight houses - which are transformed into a beach house and a lobster shack, perfect for summer gifting.

Tranquillity Stones

Add a touch of sparkle and meaning with the Crystal collection: a selection of gift pieces designed to inspire positivity and wellbeing. Each crystal has been thoughtfully chosen for its colour, texture and meaningfulness. From polished gemstones and crystal-

infused candles, to decorative keepsakes and jewellery, this line blends timeless appeal with the growing demand for mindfulness and self-care gifts. Elegant packaging and clear crystal descriptions make them perfect for ready-togift displays, encouraging customers to connect with their chosen stone’s energy and story.

Barnyard Friends

Say hello to Monty and Mabel: two hand-drawn countryside characters ready to steal hearts and brighten nurseries everywhere. Monty, the cheeky Highland cow with a twinkle in his eye, and Mabel, the sweetest goose you’ll ever meet, are the stars of the Barnyard Friends collection. Together, they bring a touch of rustic charm and plenty of personality to gifting for the newest arrivals.

Designed with love and a dash of countryside charm, each piece in the range makes a thoughtful choice for welcoming a little one. From nursery accents like illustrated height charts and keepsake boxes, to everyday essentials with a playful twist, Barnyard Friends offers gifts that are as practical as they are adorable. These pieces also complement Langs’ muchloved Mini Farm collection, making it easy to mix, match, and create co-ordinated displays.

Whether it’s a treasured keepsake, or a useful gift that will be loved every day, Barnyard Friends is a collection to grow with - making memories that last well beyond the baby years.

Naturally Yours

Celebrate love in its purest form with Naturally Yours, a beautifully simple wedding collection adorned with handpainted wildflowers. Delicate, romantic, and timeless, each design captures the charm of a meadow in bloom - making it the perfect choice for those who dream of a wedding with a natural, heartfelt touch.

This collection offers thoughtful gifting for every stage of the celebration. Treasures for the bride-to-be,

keepsakes for cherished bridesmaids, and special pieces for the newly married couple… Each item is designed to hold memories that will last a lifetime. From elegant home accents to meaningful mementos, Naturally Yours blends artistry and sentiment in every detail.

Finally, don’t panic: all the brand-new, first-look 2026 collections, which received tremendous success at their debut at Home & Gift, will be on show once again. These ranges will be available for pre-order, giving you the perfect opportunity to secure your stock early. There will also be a selection of last-minute Christmas gifting ideas for this year, so you can top up your festive displays just in time. Langs can’t wait to welcome you and share what’s next!

Unleash the festive fun

Rex B2B

Rex B2B is delighted to introduce a brand new collection for Christmas: Festive Friends. This fun new design is inspired by the love we have for our four-legged friends, showcasing breeds of all shapes, sizes and personalities.

Featuring a bright teal colour palette, the range includes a jumbo storage bag, a cotton tea towel, and tissue paper and gift tags; ideal for thoughtful presents this Christmas.

The star of the collection is a sustainable advent calendar that can be personalised and reused, year after year. It sports a neat book-style opening design, and 24 drawers that are ready to be filled with a personal choice of notes, sweets or other small gifts.

Cheerful yuletide imagery features on each drawer, from playful to classic. Perfect for counting down the days until Christmas, time and time again!

A coastal vibe

Sea Gems

Sea Gems is an established family-run company with more than 40 years of design heritage and experience. Designed in Cornwall, its beautiful silver jewellery and gift collections capture the essence of the county’s iconic landscape, nature, wildlife, and strong Celtic heritage.

The “Silver Origins” jewellery brand features contemporary sterling silver with an undeniably handcrafted charm. Sea Gems says: “Inspired by our roots, you will discover striking organic designs, intricate beachcomber shells, botanical, and wildlife designs as well as fun, whimsical motifs that celebrate moments of love and life”.

The “Celtic Lands” silver collection evokes and celebrates Cornwall’s rich heritage with timeless motifs and elaborate knotwork. And the art of fine enamelling, with its fusion of vibrant colours, creates truly unique jewellery and gifts. Gift ranges include pens, bookmarks, compact mirrors and pillboxes.

Eco-friendly packaging and POS is available, along with easy online ordering and friendly, helpful customer support, as well as fast and reliable service.

Stand: Hall 8 F31

Call: 01736 335840

Email: sales@seagems.co.uk

Visit: www.seagems.co.uk

Stand: Hall 6 L28-M29

Call: 020 8746 1700

Email: info@rexlondon.com

Visit: www.rexlondontrade.com

Cuddle up

The Wheat Bag Company

In January, The Wheat Bag Company proudly introduced its new range of Beddy Buddies - and the response from both existing and new customers has been overwhelmingly positive.

So owner Sally Moore saw an exciting opportunity to expand its collection of heatable products, by adding these charming new Beddy Buddy companions.

Each Beddy Buddy is made from soft plush fabric, making them irresistibly cuddly. The design features a Velcro opening and a removable inner bag filled with English flaxseed, allowing for gentle, soothing warmth when heated.

The current range includes eight adorable characters, and the team is already hard at work developing new designs to grow the collection even further.

Call: 01277 297259

Email: sales@tilnarart.co.uk Visit: www.tilnarart.co.uk

Tilnar Art will launch the latest addition to its AluminArt Collection at Autumn Fair: the vibrant Rainbow Highland Cow Ornaments.

These bold and colourful pieces have been created due to the popularity of the AluminArt Wall Art Rainbow Highland Cow, which has sold out three times since its launch at the start of the year. All of Tilnar Art’s products are fairly traded and handcrafted with care, to reflect its commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability. Made from recycled, plastic-free aluminium, they not only look stunning but also help reduce waste and protect our planet’s resources. By choosing Tilnar Art, you’re supporting fair working conditions and a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Full of colour & choice

Miss Milly

Celebrating newness is something that Miss Milly does for every trade show it attends, and Autumn Fair will be no different. With a huge number of stunning new jewellery designs, beautiful scarves and an increased range of recycled leather bags and purse styles, the stand will once more be full of colour and choice. And this season sees the addition of a capsule collection of handcrafted velvet pouches with intricate, beaded décor based on Miss Milly’s popular magnetic brooches.  Featuring a fox, bee, dragonfly, owl and turtle, the pouches use seasonally coloured velvet backgrounds with beautiful detailing of the wildlife on the front. They will be available in two sizes with high quality zips and finish.

The new seasonal jewellery palette has allowed for a lot of adventuring with colour. The inclusion of fuchsia and lime green allows darker, more traditional colours, such as grey and navy blue to be uplifted.

And dark reds and purples are very prominent, lending an elegant touch to the collection. The shift of the fashion industry to slow down changes in on-trend colours has allowed for longevity of key shades, and coral will carry on from S/S25 into A/W.

For Miss Milly’s colourful, recycled leather bag collection, three larger handbag styles will be launched in response to customer demand. The most impactful is a symphony of colourful, chevron stripes. A smaller, multicolour striped handbag will also be launched alongside a co-ordinating wallet purse. In all, there will be 14 new styles available this season. The fact that these products save leather scraps going to landfill and are each completely unique is a fantastic added bonus.

Most of the jewellery and scarves are already available online with the bags, pouches and magnetic brooches due late August and early September.

Xystos: the growth story

With a mix of new product innovation, engaging marketing, and strong support across multiple retail sectors, Xystos Flame & Fragrance has achieved remarkable results in the first half of 2025. Head of sales Paul Travis explains what’s working for this gift supplier

How have sales been so far this year?

Despite earlier economic forecasts, the first half of 2025 exceeded expectations. Sales rose 67% in Q1 and although they slowed in Q2 but were still a respectable 19% up, we remain 43% up for the year to date and anticipate a strong second half. What factors do you attribute this to?

Much of our growth comes down to a combination of factors. We have invested in new product development and kept a close eye on shifting consumer behaviour, ensuring our offerings remain fresh and relevant.

Our marketing efforts - especially around in-store experiences and digital engagement - have supported both established and new retail partners. Additionally, we have expanded distribution channels and strengthened relationships with key accounts, which has helped us tap into emerging opportunities and maintain momentum, despite a challenging retail landscape.

We work on developing product that reflects the market needs, with a focus on strong commercial design and value for money. Xystos’ business is focused on three key product sectors: bath & body with our brands Di Palomo and Naked Bee, home fragrance with our Cello brand, and gifting with our Splosh and Gleneagles brands.

We study and compile a marketing and product strategy for each sector we operate within, helping the sales team to have a clear and strong focus to advise their customers on which products work for them.

Any specific retail successes in 2025 you would like to highlight?

We achieved growth across all three of our market sectors: garden centres, card and gift, and direct sales. We’ve just had our strongest ‘Christmas in July’ with QVC, creating record sales for them with Cello.

And we’re working well with garden centre groups Dobbies and Blue Diamond, major card and gift retailer Cardzone, and buying group Cardgains. Expanding distribution involves identifying new retailers to collaborate with in the continually evolving high street market.

What were your hero brands in the first half?

Travel Maps & Globes has been a top seller for more than five years, experiencing fivefold growth in 2024 and continued expansion in 2025. It now represents our largest sector.

Travel Maps perform strongly across all retail sectors, offering a year-round, consumer-friendly product.

And celebrating its 21st anniversary, our Italian-inspired bath

& body brand Di Palomo continues to grow with updated packaging and new products, including bath honey, reed diffusers, and a stylish eau de toilette.

Do you have launches planned for Autumn Fair?

Newness, along with proven sellers, is the company’s lifeblood. We are launching Cello Home: a comprehensive range of fragrance products, with an exciting ceramic house theme giving a decorative edge to the collection. We are also expanding Gleneagles Lighting: a sector which grew strongly in the second half of 2024.

Which key element do you credit for your achievement in retail?

We develop costeffective retail display solutions for all our brands, offering them free of charge to help retailers maximise product visibility and sales. Plus, our ownership of the Collectables retail chain gives us valuable insight into retail display strategies and allows us to evaluate new products prior to their market launch.

Child’s play Inside Out Toys

Inside Out Toys has been appointed the exclusive UK distributor for Box CANDIY, the award-winning brand of creative craft kits for children, and will be showcasing the brand at Autumn Fair.

Box CANDIY offers a beautifully designed range of eco-conscious arts and crafts kits, inspiring children to express their creativity through imaginative, screen-free play. Each product combines fun and function with sustainability, making it a perfect fit for Inside Out Toys’ expanding portfolio of ethical and environmentally responsible brands.

With a focus on mindful design and high-quality materials, the Box CANDIY range includes themed craft kits that cover everything from jewellery making and scratch art to build-your-own mini worlds. The brand’s vibrant packaging and box designs - often shaped like suitcases or keepsake boxes - add extra play value and make them ideal for gifting.

Stand: Hall 6 A02

Call: 01908 969969

Email: sales@insideouttoys.co.uk

Visit: www.insideouttoys.co.uk

Fun additions for all the family House of Marbles

Established in 1973, House of Marbles has been delighting gift retailers for more than 50 years with toys, games, books and, of course, marbles, that bring out the child in everyone. Based in the South West, its products combine quality, nostalgia, and playful design - creating collections that feel as good to sell as they do to give.

This Autumn Fair, the company will return with a fresh mid-year 2025 range: a mix of timeless favourites and exciting new finds for the year ahead.

One standout newcomer is the brilliantly quirky Chorking Jollux! Card Game. Designed in-house by the creative team, this original game invites players to step back in time to guess the meanings of forgotten phrases and curious expressions. Packed with vintage charm, it’s perfect for gifting and game nights: a guaranteed conversation starter for your customers, whether in-store or online.

For families, the new Capture The Flag set puts a lively twist on a classic game that’s making a big comeback, especially at school. From garden adventures to park outings, it delivers hours of energetic fun.

The Snuggable range of plush sensory toys also expands with a host of adorable new additions. Perfect for gift retailers seeking toys suitable from birth, the toys are soft, soothing and huggable little companions made for life’s quiet moments.

Beyond toys and games, House of Marbles continues to deliver a comprehensive range of children’s and adult books, with new seasonal titles added to the collection. It also offers bespoke product options, from personalised games to branded gift items tailored to your shop’s needs. For more information, contact mark@houseofmarbles.com.

That’s entertainment! University Games and Lagoon

Don’t miss the University Games and Lagoon stand at Autumn Fair! Its extensive catalogue of bestselling games, puzzles, toys and gifts ensures there is entertainment to be found for the whole family.

Lagoon’s new Birthday in a Box range is the ultimate birthday gift that is sure to brighten up someone’s special day. Available for milestone ages 18 to 60, as well as a general Happy Birthday format, the Birthday in a Box range is perfect for dressing up a colleague’s desk, or sending to a friend in the post. A Birthday Trivia Card Game, Booklet of Birthday Fun Facts, Happy Birthday Badge, a Cake Topper and Confetti, are just some of the goodies included.

The National Geographic How Things Work range is an exciting new range designed with creative play in mind. These beautifully styled 3D puzzles use card and other materials to create a ‘build and play’ range of STEAM science toys. The nine-strong range includes a Periscope, Monocular, Hydraulic Lift, Racing Car, Blast Off Rocket and Parachute Launcher, that all come with an instruction booklet outlining fun facts about the unique build, to help children understand ‘How Things Work’.

Stand: Hall 20 B50-C51

Call: 01626 835358

Email: uk@houseofmarbles.com Visit:

The Project Genius collection of beautiful wooden brain teasers make great mind challenging gifts for all ages and occasions, from the environmentally-friendly Bamboo puzzles of Bumble Jumble, The Great Coral Maze and Bamboo Sudoko, Mancala and Cribbage, to the extensive True Genius Puzzle collection with designs based on ancient civilisation. The Grecian Computer, Caesar’s Calendar and the Egyptian Coin Trade will intrigue and entertain the most experienced puzzlers. Lagoon’s extensive seasonal game collection will also be on display. Festive CDUs of Christmas TableTop Games, as well as games such as Oh What Fun!, Cryptic Christmas, and Down the Chimney, alongside a range of funpacked Advent Calendars, promise light-hearted Christmas entertainment for all ages.

Call: 0207 254 0100

Email: sales@ugames.uk.com

Diary of a gift shop

Sarah Halsall, owner of Hand Picked by Henrietta in the Cheshire town of Poynton, talks about time management, charity treks, and the importance of taking a break

In July I drove up to Harrogate through torrential rain to attend Home & Gift. But while the weather outside was miserable, nothing could dampen the joy inside the show. With exciting new product launches, industry updates, and the chance to catch up with friends, the atmosphere was buzzing.

I visited on the Sunday and Monday, and the energy was incredible, especially during the announcement of The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year People’s Choice Award, which was won by David Batt, managing director of Chi Cups and creator of the prize-winning self-heating Chi Cup.

The news was revealed at the Sunday ‘Sundowners’ event, which was held in the Majestic Hotel’s Ballroom. It was moved there due to the unexpected shower, and the event was renamed ‘Raindowners’. The mood in the Majestic was electric!

Trade fairs always leave me feeling energised, and I came away with lots of new ideas and plenty of orders placed with Wild-Olive, Widdop & Co., Joe Davies, Langs, The Wheat Bag Company, Letterbox Love, Molly Mae, Ginger Betty, Lovely Paper Stuff, and Wish Strings

Suppliers that were new to me which I also placed orders with were Baby Republic (for its SPEKS fidget toys), Rosy Roo (clip-on scented car diffuser air fresheners) and Swr Trading (the Happy Fruit and Veg Farm range of handmade crochet characters; each one carries a little positive message card).

There are still more that I’m mulling over, so I’d call this a very successful show. I’ve even booked accommodation for next year already! And of course,

you can’t visit Harrogate without nipping into Bettys Café Tea Rooms…

My top pick from the show? It was great to catch up with Stacey and Jamie McNeill, founder and wholesale & operations director respectively of Fox Under The Moon. I’m excited about their upcoming book launch signings and new licensing partnership with giftware distributor Joe Davies

Onto August, and this tends to be a quieter month for us, which gives me a chance to plan ahead (and obviously, I need a new notebook for this!). It’s the perfect time to reflect on our progress, make improvement lists, and set new goals.

I’ve also joined a social media challenge group to help reignite our online presence. Called Ace of Media (www.aceofmedia.co.uk), it gives support to small business owners by

providing daily prompts and tasks to help get the creative flow going. Social media can sometimes feel like a chore, but events like trade fairs certainly provide great content and inspiration.

In other news, our Greeting Card Association (GCA) #Cardmitment paper shopping bags have arrived. So we’ve swapped our usual pink stripes to white bags bearing the GCA slogan ‘Cards Make People Happy (It’s a fact). Send a card, deliver a smile’. It’s a great way to spread the message.

Next up: Autumn Fair! And finally, thank you to everyone who supported the [greeting cards and gifts buying group] Cardgains Charity Challenge 2025 walk, through and around Birmingham, which took place on June 26. I took part and completed it: 27.5 miles walked and over £50,000 raised so far for GCA’s charity of the year: Pancreatic Cancer UK.

instyleinstyle Focus on Jewellerey

Blooming lovely

Alexander Thurlow

As an ever-blooming business, Alexander Thurlow continues to delight customers with its exciting new designs. The company says: “Just arrived is this highly intricate Spider Lily brooch: a statement piece if ever we saw one. Also, with Christmas just around the corner, we love this little sprig of holly too. This hand-designed collection has been a breath of fresh air for the business, with customers commenting on how popular the designs are in their shops.”

From their significance in meaning, gift worthy beauty, or simply the intricacy of their design, Alexander Thurlow’s arrangement of flower products are a bouquet you’d be a fool not to invest in.

Call: 020 8766 6466

Email: sales@alexanderthurlow.com

Visit: www.alexanderthurlow.com/trade

Chain reaction

SANTORO

From SANTORO’s Gorjuss brand, the In The Forest collection continues to expand with a new range of gifting items, including the launch of two enchanting necklaces based on the new Gorjuss girls: Firefly Dawn and Fairy Dusk.

Designed to evoke the glow of fireflies and the wonder of starlit woodlands, these delicate pieces are set to charm Gorjuss fans and customers of all ages.

Each necklace features a nature-inspired pendant on a 16in chain with a 4cm extender. They’re also lead, cadmium, and nickel-free, making them ideal for gifting and everyday wear. The necklaces are presented on illustrated backing cards featuring the Gorjuss girls in forest scenes, making them eye-catching both on shelves and at point-of-sale. A fully stocked counter display unit is available, containing six of each design for easy merchandising.

Perfect for gift shops, the necklaces combine collectable character appeal with stylish, affordable gifting. With Gorjuss’ loyal fanbase and growing demand for playful jewellery, these necklaces are a must-have accessory for the upcoming season.

Call: 02087 811104

Email: sales@santoro-london.com

Visit: https://santorotrade.com/

In a twist

Joe Davies

Get ready to add a ‘little twist’ to your jewellery collection! The brand-new Equilibrium Twisted Bliss Collection is turning heads with its bold, modern vibe and effortless elegance. This contemporary, fashionable range features eyecatching necklaces, earrings and bracelets - each with a signature ‘twist’ that brings movement and a fresh take on classic style.

Plated with real silver and gold (with some chic two-tone pieces to add to the mix), this collection has been designed to shine, with select styles finished off with a hint of sparkle thanks to shimmering gemstones. Stylish, versatile and right on trend, Twisted Bliss is your go-to for a touch of everyday glam.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

New arrivals

Gold Trip

Gold Trip launched a new Lifestyle range at Home & Gift and saw strong orders across the board. The range comprises hair accessories for adults and children in giftable arch-shaped boxes that stack or stand solo on a shelf to make a really impactful retail display.

And off the back of the success of sales of clip on earrings in its rediscovered vintage collection, Gold Trip launched a new collection of contemporary clip on earrings. Featuring sterling silver posts, the earrings are hypoallergenic and cleverly designed with a variety of different backs that don’t pinch and stay put. Including designs featuring freshwater pearls, enamel, crystals and even drop earrings, the brand saw strong orders across the board.

Additionally, the brand launched a selection of children’s jewellery, including cute, fun designs of clip-on earrings and rings.

Gold Trip’s demi-fine jewellery continues to be the brand’s best seller, while the Aurora Collection, which features pavé-set stones set inside an organic-shaped disc, also did very well. So too did the range of ear cuffs, freshwater pearl jewellery, and the enamel jewellery from the Rainbow Collection.

The brand is now preparing for Autumn Fair and Top Drawer, for which it is expecting further success with its giftable lifestyle accessories ahead of the Christmas season.

Email: hello@goldtrip.co

Visit: https://goldtrip.co/

Joma Jewellery & Katie Loxton

Celebrate in style

Every Christmas gifting moment is covered in the Autumn/Winter Collections from sister brands Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton

A sparkly season

Joma Jewellery’s enchanting Autumn/Winter Collection is ready to see your customers stride (and shine!) into a brand-new festive gifting season.

Featuring a warm and inviting palette of plum red, blush pink, and pearly white - and finished with hammered charms, luxe textures, and plenty of pavé sparkle - this collection gives new meaning to gorgeous gifting.

Looking to bring even more magic in-store and elevate your Christmas display with the ultimate gift? The brand’s signature styles take on an elevated form with its first-ever Laboratory Grown Diamond Collection.

Set in enhanced quality silver plating and crowned with a shining charm, set with a Laboratory Grown Diamond, this thoughtfully designed collection will see your customers create forever moments with those who mean the most this festive season.

When it’s the most wonderful time of the year, you can always count on Joma Jewellery to pull out all the stops. From bestselling Christmas Crackers and adorable new Stocking Gift Sets to festive A Littles and beautifully boxed treasures, these enchanting keepsakes are made to be loved long after the decorations come down.

Festive edit

Katie Loxton’s Autumn/Winter Collection will have your customers wishing it was Christmas every day, with everything they need to celebrate the season in style.

Showcasing a classic and timeless colour palette of cherry red, rich emerald green, and luxe gold foil packaging - paired with inspired design details like statement studs and golden branded charms - this festive edit brings instant gift appeal to any display.

From soft-to-touch bag profiles that make the perfect under-the-tree surprise, to cosy winter knits that are cold-weather essentials, each piece has been thoughtfully designed with gifting in mind.

And when it comes to Secret Santa and stocking filler moments, there’s no shortage of little luxuries - including comforting home scents, dazzling waterproof jewellery, and perfectly sized mini accessories.

To make the experience even more special, every purchase comes beautifully presented in one of the brand’s iconic gold tag gift bags, so they’re already wrapped and ready for the big day. It’s truly set to be a Katie Loxton Christmas like no other.

Joma Jewellery

Call: 01295 263430

Email: enquiries@jomajewellery.com

Visit: wholesale.jomajewellery.com

Katie Loxton

Call: 01295 250879

Email: enquiries@katieloxton.com

Visit: wholesale.katieloxton.com

Get set for gifting

THINK BIG co-founder Bryony Taylor-Edwards discusses how independent retailers can maximise pre-Christmas trading. The path to a strong festive season starts now!

As the golden tones of autumn begin to colour our shelves, it’s time for independent retailers to get strategic about the biggest opportunity in the gifting calendar: Christmas.

But it’s not just about December. Consumer mindset begins to shift long before advent calendars hit the shelves. September and October bring their own mini-flurries. Think back-to-school gifting, autumn-scented candles, warm-toned home décor, and the cosy comforts that help customers settle into the darker months.

Tapping into these early seasonal moments helps create momentum and builds footfall, while allowing you to start testing what’s resonating before the full festive rush begins. Don’t overlook key dates such as Halloween (Friday October 31) and Bonfire Night (Wednesday November 5) either - they present perfect pockets for micro-gifting and themed displays.

Plan your core Christmas offer

As you look ahead, it’s essential to understand which core gift categories will anchor your offering. Customers look for ease and inspiration in equal measure, so consider the products that serve both.

Think jewellery with meaning, beautifully boxed self-care treats, design-led board games and puzzles, stationery that sparks joy, and gifts with purpose - all of which are proving popular for 2025’s gifting trends. Experiences in a box, or mindful gifting bundles (such as candle + bath soak pairings), are also gaining traction.

Make sure your visual merchandising reflects the energy of the season, transitioning from ‘cosy autumn’ to ‘gifting made easy,’ especially by November when early-bird shoppers begin their festive prep.

Trend watch

What’s hot for 2025 gifting? Forecasts point to several trends that indie retailers can leverage:

• Sustainability matters: consumers continue to seek out eco-conscious options, whether that’s recyclable wrap, locally made goods or low-impact production.

• Nostalgia and connection: retro toys, shared family games, and classic products such as hot water bottles and photo frames are making a comeback. Alternatively retailers could think about offering unique gift subscriptions by teaming up with a local coffee, cake or small gift supplier.

• Wellness + calm: with burnout on the rise, gifts that soothe, calm and cocoon are in demand. Look out for sleep sets, herbal teas, breathwork kits, and journals.

• Statement stocking fillers: think small gifts with big personality: quirky accessories, personalised keyrings, or desk treats that bring joy.

Make it easy to buy and beautiful to gift

The power of presentation can’t be underestimated. Add gift-wrap options, create ‘gifts under £20’ tables, and offer bundled sets that make decision-making simpler for time-poor shoppers. A well-placed sign or seasonal story can make the difference between browsing and buying.

And don’t forget marketing

A huge part of your gifting success isn’t just in what you stock. It’s how you package it up and position it.

Think beyond the generic For Him and For Her labels and create original, story-led gift themes that speak to the values and lifestyles of your customers. Whether it’s Cosy Nights In, For the Foodie, Small Joys for Busy Minds, or Gifts That Give Back, themed edits help shoppers navigate choice with ease and make your displays memorable.

Take time to consider what your customers are really looking for. Is it originality? Price point? Convenience? Thoughtfulness? Sustainability? Let those insights guide your merchandising, signage, and social media content.

This is where independent retailers can really shine, because you know your community. So speak their language and make it easy for them to say: “That’s perfect.”

In summary…

Start early, stay relevant to the season, and understand the buying mindset at every stage. By curating your offer with intention, from autumn all the way to Christmas Eve, you’ll give your customers a reason to keep returning to your store, both online and in person.

And remember: gifting is emotional. Help your customers feel the magic as much as they see it. That’s where indie retail shines.

Bryony Taylor-Edwards is co-founder of Think BIG - a community dedicated to empowering purpose-led founders to build their business confidence, master a growth mindset, and have lasting impact.  Email: bryony@thinkbigleadership.com Visit: www.thinkbighuddles.co.uk

Harrogate hits new heights

The 65th anniversary of the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate combined a record-breaking attendance and rebookings in a standout summer showcase

The 2025 edition of Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival wrapped up on a high in July, with record-breaking rebookings and remarkable growth across key buyer categories, cementing its status as the UK’s definitive summer event for the retail industry.

Now in its 65th year, the much-loved Harrogate showcase once again brought together a powerful mix of buyers, brands, and creatives for four sun-drenched (and occasionally rain-kissed) days of sourcing, inspiration, and networking across the Harrogate Convention Centre and the grounds of the DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel.

Attendance saw significant spikes across multiple retail sectors: independents rose by 25%, department stores by 36%, multiples by 41%, and internet retailers by 23%. And 31% of attendees were first-time visitors, o ering exhibitors fresh conversations and new opportunities. Bigname retailers in attendance included John Lewis, Lakeland, WHSmith, Morrisons, Fenwick, Next World Duty Free, and many more.

The quality of attendees matched the quantity, with a 42% increase in buyers with purchasing budgets exceeding £500,000. Exhibitors saw strong order writing from the moment doors opened on Sunday, right through to the final afternoon.

Plus, 72% of exhibitors rebooked on-site for the 2026 edition: a record-breaking figure that speaks volumes about the commercial success of the show.

With more than 150 new brands showcased across seven halls and multiple Design Points, the show floor was alive with discovery. Retailers praised the carefully curated mix of exhibitors, with the team from department store group John Lewis & Partners commenting: “The brands at Home & Gift feel like they’re selected for a certain customer type, which we feel resonates with ours.”

South East London gift and lifestyle chain Jumping Bean noted the unique energy of the Harrogate setting, saying: “It’s fun - definitely fun. The social side is the best out of all the shows we attend… and the new suppliers make it so exciting!”

The event’s 65th anniversary brought added sparkle,

including a visit from the Mayor of Harrogate, who signed a commemorative birthday card and reflected on the show’s local legacy.

Elsewhere, celebrations continued with the popular Sunday ‘Raindowners’ (an impromptu indoor Sundowners after a midsummer shower), a buzzing Monday Show Party, and relaxed Tuesday Drinks on the Lawn.

“This edition was about more than just the numbers - it was about building meaningful connections and celebrating the future of retail together”

The Gift of the Year 2025 showcase, in partnership with The Giftware Association, highlighted the sector’s innovation, while vibrant sustainability-focused installations from The Better Trends Co. added a thought-provoking edge to the halls.

Beyond the show floor, Harrogate enjoyed a welcome boost to its hospitality and retail sectors, with an estimated £2 million in local economic impact. Hotels were near capacity, restaurants filled with post-show chatter, and the town buzzed with a feel-good energy throughout the week.

Event director David Westbrooke reflected: “This edition was about more than just the numbers - it was about building meaningful connections and celebrating the future of retail together. The record rebook shows how much this event means to our community.”

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival returns to Harrogate from July 19 to July 22 2026. If you weren’t there this year, don’t miss next summer’s most inspirational buying event. Register your interest to attend at https://homeandgift.co.uk/.

Creativity meets commerce

From emerging brands to established names, discover unmissable design-led products, trends and connections to stay one step ahead of the gift retail curve at Top Drawer A/W25

Olympia London in West Kensington will once again become the beating heart of the UK’s design-led retail scene, as Top Drawer A/W25 returns to the capital from September 14 to September 16.

Celebrating over 40 years of serving the industry, Top Drawer is where creativity meets commerce, offering a curated platform for discovery, connection, and inspiration.

Recognised as a leading UK trade event for contemporary design-led retail, Top Drawer brings together more than 600 hand-picked brands across eight expertly edited lifestyle sectors: Home, Gift, Fashion, Wellbeing, Greetings & Stationery, Play, Food Emporium, and the emerging talent platform, Launchpad. Visitors can expect to discover 25,000-plus of the freshest finds, chosen for their quality, originality, and design credibility, all under one roof.

This edition introduces an enhanced programme under the creative theme of Destination Design, offering buyers not only an exceptional sourcing experience but also fresh insight into the trends and ideas shaping the season ahead.

Highlights of the show include:

• Retail Revealed Live: a dynamic stage delivering thought-provoking talks, trend-led panels, and expertled masterclasses to help retailers navigate the evolving retail landscape.

• The Better Trends Co. Trend Feature: exclusive trend forecasting and consumer insight to inspire buying strategies for the year ahead.

• Summer of Design Collaboration: new for this season, Top Drawer partners with the Design Museum to deliver a never-before-seen shoppable showcase at the Design Museum shop located on Kensington High Street, spotlighting bold, boundary-pushing exhibitors as part of the museum’s Summer of Design.

• Launchpad x University of the Arts London (UAL): discover the next generation of standout design talent with a handpicked selection of market-ready, new-tomarket brands.

• Business Hub: one-to-one advice and mentoring sessions with retail experts, o ering actionable strategies on everything from marketing to merchandising.

• Spotlight Awards: celebrating excellence in design and innovation, recognising the most inspiring brands and products on the show floor - and a show party to go with it.

With a focus on creativity, commercial potential, and community, Top Drawer A/W25 is described as the ultimate sourcing destination for independent boutiques, department stores, online platforms, museum shops, and interior buyers alike.

Show director David Westbrooke says: “Top Drawer is where the industry gathers to source, learn and connect, and this season’s programme reflects that in full. From our new Design Museum partnership to future-focused content, we’re putting retail relevance front and centre.”

Whether seeking the next bestseller, exploring emerging trends, or connecting with like-minded professionals, visitors to Top Drawer will find inspiration in every aisle. With its signature blend of curated design, market insight, and networking opportunities, this is billed as the event where the season ahead truly begins.

What: Top Drawer A/W25

Where: Olympia London

When: September 14-16

Email: Hello@topdrawer.co.uk

Visit: www.topdrawer.co.uk

Beautiful style. Big results.

The Museums & Gallerie s’ range of st ationery, gift s and homewares will drive sales in any retail space. It can be the beating hear t of your business or a distinctive, and prof itable, way to add value to your core of fer.

Whatever your need, our collec tion will help you st and out from the crowd with great British brands that people love.

So add some st yle and see the result s. Please visit our website or cont ac t your agent for more information.

Snuggles, stories & softness

Designed for life’s earliest moments and lasting memories, Bear & Me by Charlie Bears brings together ultra-soft plush companions and lovable wearable bear bags that truly connect with children and those who care for them

In today’s evolving gift landscape, retailers are looking for more than just cute faces: they want meaningful stories, lasting value, and emotional appeal. Bear & Me by Charlie Bears delivers all that and more.

Rooted in comfort and imagination, each character is designed not only for little ones but also for parents, grandparents, and gift-givers seeking something special, affordable, and truly heartfelt.

A new chapter

Part of the Charlie Bears family, which is celebrating 20 years of beloved bear-making in 2025, Bear & Me draws from a trusted heritage of craftsmanship and storytelling. Every design is lovingly created with the same attention to detail that collectors know and cherish from Charlie Bears, and tailored for the tiniest hands and the earliest stages of childhood. With gentle textures, baby-safe materials, and adorable personalities, these plush companions are made to grow with a child, from cot to toddlerhood and beyond.

Growing with imagination

As little ones grow, so do their adventures - and Bear & Me grows right alongside them, always being by their side. This year, for children aged three and up, the brand has introduced wearable teddy bear bags: playful mini backpacks styled as plush characters, perfect for toting tiny treasures, snacks, or even another cuddly companion. Both practical and imaginative, they’ve become fast favourites with parents and children alike.

Value with heart

Affordability is a cornerstone of the Bear & Me brand. While crafted to the highest quality standards, each item is priced to reflect true value, making it easier for retailers to offer something that customers feel proud to give.

At a time when conscious spending is key, Bear & Me strikes the ideal balance between emotional appeal and accessible price points. Ideal for baby showers, new arrivals, or birthdays, Bear & Me offers the kind of gifting moment that stays in your heart.

Looking ahead to 2026

Launching at Top Drawer is Bear & Me by Charlie Bears’ enchanting 2026 collection. Here you’ll find natureinspired plush characters that will be supported with newlook branding, giving a fresh charm to family-friendly retail spaces looking for affordable plush creations.

A friend for every step

At its core, Bear & Me by Charlie Bears is about comfort, imagination, and the quiet joy of friendship. Whether it’s a soft bear to snuggle or a playful backpack for adventures, each character is created to walk beside children through every stage.

Visit Bear & Me by Charlie Bears at Top Drawer, and experience the collection that brings heartfelt gifting to life. Stand: 032

Call: 01566 777092

Email: uk-sales@charliebears.com

Bigger and bolder

IMuseums & Galleries (M&G) returns to Top Drawer with a much larger stand, giving it the space to show off its extensive and growing array of stationery, cards, gifts and homewares

n amongst some exciting arrivals from this summer, Museums & Galleries (M&G) will also launch a selection of brand-new products exclusively at Top Drawer A/W.

A completely new gift range from the company is a selection of printed clam-shell spectacles cases with co-ordinating printed lens cloths, with a suggested retail price of £9.99. The V&A’s beautiful scarlet ‘Kimono Cranes’ would be a delightful gift for many spectacles wearers and the design has been hugely successful for M&G on many other gift products.

Another classic from the V&A is William Morris’ ‘Strawberry Thief’. The rich floral greens, reds and yellows of Morris’ ‘Leicester’ pattern - another M&G customer favouritecompletes the trio of launch designs from the V&A.

There are two designs from British designer Matthew Williamson, as well as classics from the British Museum and Vincent Van Gogh. Contemporary artists Angela Harding, Catherine Rowe, and Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press are represented too.

Brambly Hedge - a classic British heritage brand

which is experiencing a golden revival - features on one design, which is bound please fans.

For Top Drawer A/W, M&G is launching two new fashion tote bags: a new darker colourway floral from Helen Ahpornsiri (‘Purple Meadow’) and a lusciously fruity ‘Lemon Grove’ from M&G’s new design licence Emily Burningham. This is the first tote bag from this brand in M&G’s collection.

Meanwhile M&G’s new plant bag gift bags, which were launched in January, have been so popular that the company is

doubling the size of the range by adding an additional six. Emily Burningham’s ‘Hollyhocks’ and Helen Ahpornisiri’s ‘Purple Meadow’ are joined by Walter Crane’s ‘Cockatoo and Pomegranate’ from the V&A, ‘Magnolia Peacock’ by Matthew Williamson, a stunning medieval floral design from Germany, and a new design by the wonderful Angela Harding.

And, with a view to the dark winter nights to come (as well as post-Christmas festivity relaxation), M&G is offering four new jigsaw puzzles from the V&A, Chris

Dunn’s ‘Wind in the Willows’, Brambly Hedge, and Emma Frances Grant’s ‘Imaginarium’.

Also at Top Drawer A/W, M&G will be proudly displaying its new Excellence in Housewares Award 2025 shortlisted bone china gift mugs (20 in total), bottles, PLA mugs, coaster sets, oven gloves, adjustable aprons, tea towel sets and cotton napkins.

The show will also be a chance to review M&G’s new Emily Burningham and The Fold card ranges, as well as M&G’s Christmas ranges.

For little adventurers

Blade & Rose is a leading British children’s clothing brand which specialises in trendsetting leggings, featuring stylish and quirky designs on the bottom, and accessories. Three new collections will be showcased at Top Drawer A/W: Rustic Farmyard, Meadow Farmyard Friends, and Teddy the Dragon.

Each range’s playful characters are vibrantly displayed on the signature soft, sustainable cotton of Blade & Rose collections, for all-day playing, crawling and fun-times. Pieces include long-sleeved tops, leggings and matching socks along with a cosy hoodie.

Families who enjoy adventures will love the Rustic Farmyard collection, featuring a tractor-themed top in warm autumn tones, deep forest green leggings with playful animal motifs, and matching socks to complete the look. The burnt orange top features a deep green and yellow tractor applique with chunky wheels and intricate stitch detail, while the leggings are decorated with woodland motifs - perfect for farmyard fun.

The Meadow Farmyard Friends collection features a soft peach top with a sweet woodland scene with a bunny, fox and buzzing bee. The navy leggings are decorated with forest friends and mushrooms, for that extra woodland charm.

The Teddy the Dragon collection allows us to step into a land of dragons and daydreams. Children will love Teddy the Dragon breathing embroidered fire on their top. Pair this with misty green leggings decorated with dragon scales and clouds, and you have a dream outfit for any little wizard. The cosy matching hoodie is a highlight this season, featuring soft 3D dragon spikes, ears and Teddy’s face for full fantasy fun.

The company was founded in 2010 by entrepreneurial mother of two Amanda Peffer during her maternity leave, and is named after each child’s middle name: ‘Blade’ and ‘Rose’. Inspired by her then three-month-old daughter, who always had the bottom of her leggings on show, Amanda found herself constantly pulling down her daughter’s dresses - until she decided to embrace the beautiful bottom sticking out, and design a fun range of leggings around this concept.

A major component was to ensure that the quality of the fabric was durable, functional, would wash well and most importantly, was soft and kind to children’s delicate skin.

Blade & Rose continues to go from strength to strength with an expanding product range that includes children’s hats, tops, socks, bibs, rompers, bibs, booties, Eco splashsuits, Eco ruck sacks, and Eco lunch boxes.

Blade & Rose’s licensed range is also advancing steadily, collaborating with WWF (of which 10% of sales go to charity), Peter Rabbit, and Paddington, with exciting new launches coming very soon.

Charm your way

Gold Trip

Gold Trip will launch its new Birthstone Charm Collection at Top Drawer, described as the perfect way to mark your own or a loved one’s birth month. With charms available for a paperclip chain necklace or huggie hoop earrings, you can add other charms and spacers from the collection to suit your look or mood.

Crafted from hallmarked 925 sterling silver with options in rhodium or 18ct gold plating, it features charms in an array of colourful zirconia stones, or freshwater pearls, for each birthstone.

The brand is running an introductory offer with a Birthstone Charm Collection ‘Starter Kit’ that includes everything you need to make your first sales, including a bespoke POS tray that compactly displays each element at its best.

Stand: 299

Email: hello@goldtrip.co Visit: https://goldtrip.co/

Vibrant debut

Jennie Fynn

With bold colourful prints and UK-made accessories, British designer Jennie Fynn is set to make a debut at Top Drawer.

Jennie’s brand is a celebration of pattern and positivity, featuring her hand-painted designs inspired by flowers, plants, and her global travels.

Her collection includes makeup bags, cheerful tote bags, and playful homewares; all designed in her Hampshire studio and made in the UK using high-quality materials.

The products are crafted with care and full of personality, making them perfect for gift shops and retailers whose customers are seeking something unique and love bold design and colour, whether they’re gifting or treating themselves.

Alongside her range, Jennie will also be showcasing a curated selection of surface pattern designs available for licensing and collaborations across homeware, stationery, fashion, and lifestyle. These are ideal for buyers and brands seeking something fresh and eye-catching for their products.

DISC O VER THE MA GIC OF

Stand: K24

Call: 07864 704154

Email: info@jenniefynn.com

Visit: https://jenniefynn.com

Ethical elegance Namaste

Namaste can’t wait to be back at Top Drawer for another year! Look out for its vibrant stand, bursting with beautiful, handmade fair trade goods crafted by talented artisans. The company is bringing a stunning selection of block-printed textiles, seasonal décor, furniture, clothing, and thoughtful gifting - all rooted in ethical craftsmanship.

And look out for the new hand-painted Shapla Collection. Lovingly handcrafted by skilled artisans in Bangladesh, each piece captures the delicate beauty of the Shapla flower: the national bloom of Bangladesh. From candlesticks and charming planters to distinctive vases and incense holders, every item tells a story of artistry, tradition and purpose.

M ythical inspired, luxur y plush that ’s lled with enchantment.

C rafted for children, collectors and plush enthusiasts alike, B earhouse by Charlie Bears blends luxur y and fantasy in ever y stitch.

JOIN US ON STAND

this S eptember at Top D rawer and experience the magic wo v en into ever y bear

All the right pieces

Games & puzzles continue to slot neatly into the gift trade, combining timeless appeal with on-trend design. With families, friends, collectors and solo players alike seeking screen-free entertainment, retailers are reaping the rewards. We find out more from suppliers in the know

What trends are driving this evergreen gift sector?

Gemma Lewington, marketing director at University Games and Lagoon: Fundamentally, people are looking for ways to enjoy inclusive time with family and friends, so games that are fun, social, and accessible to all ages are in high demand.

There’s a real focus on pick-up-and-play formats with simple rules and ‘All Play’ mechanics, which keep everyone engaged and minimise downtime. This emphasis on light, interactive gameplay makes games more appealing across generations.

Licensing also continues to be a strong driver in the sector, particularly in the preschool and children’s categories, where having the right balance of popular properties is key. We’ve seen great success with our Roald Dahl, Dog Man, and The Very Hungry Caterpillar ranges, which o er familiar, trusted brands for young players and their families.

Tara Strickland, head of design at SANTORO: We’ve been seeing a strong appetite for tactile, screen-free entertainment, especially pieces that feel collectible. What’s also really resonating right now with consumers are designs that feel like little pieces of art. There’s a strong interest towards products that double as décor and/or storytelling tools, along with whimsical designs that appeal to both adults and children alike.

What are your current hits and predictions for Christmas successes?

Gemma: Our year-on-year best sellers - Perudo,

Subbuteo, Who’s in the Bag?, Don’t Say It! and Yes! No! - are set to maintain their strong momentum into the Christmas season, and will be joined by our hot new games for 2025: Bullseye and Buying Time.

For preschoolers, the new Sort and Learn Magnetic Puzzles from the award-winning The Learning Journey range are expected to be in high demand, and when it comes to stocking fillers, our fun new National Geographic How Things Work 3D Puzzle range that features a Blast O Rocket, Racing Car, and Parachute Launcher is sure to fly o the shelves!

Tara: Products that blend design and interaction are proving especially popular - think puzzles that unfold into miniature worlds or games with an artistic twist. For Christmas, we predict a continued rise in giftable sets that feel special, seasonal, and have a keepsake feel.

If a gift retailer only had room for one product or range what would you recommend?

Gemma: Bullseye – no question! This hugely entertaining and interactive game, based on the nostalgic TV classic quiz show, is one to watch. The unprecedented buzz created by the launch of our new games at Toy Fair has continued throughout 2025, and both new and existing buyers have been keen to support the Bullseye Games as we move into Q4.

Based on the interest from both retailers and consumers, the brand’s successful push into consumer channels, and the new TV show airing later

this year, Bullseye is certainly the one retailers want to make sure they have on their shelves this Christmas!

Tara: I would recommend our range of games and puzzles from the absolutely adorable Bangoberry collection. It’s colourful, full of character (quite literally), and offers a variety of engaging puzzles and games. This includes 100-piece jigsaw puzzles that feature vibrant, whimsical scenes straight from Bangoberry Island, making them as sweet to look at as they are to complete!

Our award-winning Match And Stack game is also a real standout, as it offers a charming twist on the classic memory matching game.

Anything you are working on/that’s in the pipeline?

Gemma: 2026 is shaping up to be a year of big launches! We’re currently developing more than 60 new lines to unveil next year, with even more in the planning stages.

We’re also thrilled to have signed a global distribution agreement with the renowned Hansen Games, Gift & Toy Company, and will be

bringing a curated selection of its range to the UK market.

On top of that, we will also be unveiling some exciting new additions to our popular licensed Football Stadiums and Rubik’s Cube gifts range, so there’s plenty for retailers to look forward to!

Tara: Yes, we have many exciting things coming! One of our biggest projects will be the launch of a new character brand - one that brings together the worlds of craft and play into a unique experience. It’s something we’ve been quietly working on, and we can’t wait to share more soon.

We’re also continuing to build momentum with Bangoberry: our latest character brand. The Bangoberry universe is expanding in a fun, unexpected way that involves digital play. It’s a space we’ve been keen to step into, and we’re excited about creating an immersive experience around our much-loved Bango Bunch characters.

Additionally, we’ll be growing our Pop & Build range, offering creative, hands-on fun that expands on our award-winning Pirouette Countdown range.

Pocket-sized puzzles

Joe Davies

Dinky Jigsaws is a charming collection of mini puzzles that are big on character and ideal for the gifting market. Packed in eye-catching CDU displays, these pocketsized puzzles - which come in four themes of Van Gogh, Monet, World Traveller, and Cats - are a winning impulse buy.

Retailers love their compact footprint, and customers can’t resist the collectability and gift appeal. With proven sell-through and wide appeal across age groups, Dinky Jigsaws are a must-have for Q4 and beyond.

Known for award-winning customer service and a vast range of gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories tailored to independent retailers, Joe Davies delivers again! Products are available in its trademark ‘little and often’ quantities, with a minimum order value of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

On the cards…

Two Bad Mice

This autumn the greeting card, ceramic and gift company Two Bad Mice is launching two memory card games, with illustrations by Anita Jeram. Her artwork is best known through the paintings she made for the beloved classic children’s book ‘Guess How Much I Love You’ by Sam McBratney.

Based on the themes of dogs and cats, the games are called ‘My Dog Is…’ and ‘ABC of cats’. Each comprises two alphabetical sets of cards plus Jokers, and feature colourful illustrations which will stimulate an enjoyment in words and spelling. Players place the cards face down on the table, and take it in turns to upturn two cards to find matching pairs.

The packs of cards are sold at a recommended pick-me-up price of £8.50 and will make ideal small presents and stocking fillers.

Established in 1985, Two Bad Mice also makes ranges of ceramic mugs and Christmas and greeting cards that are known for their style, quality and humour.

Call: 01834 861166

Email: sales@twobadmice.com

Visit: www.twobadmice.com

Product Focus

Games & Puzzles

Something for everyone University Games

and Lagoon

Get ready for a bumper Q4 with University Games and Lagoon. With 40 years of games & puzzles success, and a bestselling portfolio of more than 700 titles, there’s something for every age and stage, from early preschool favourites to family classics and entertaining party games.

University Games’ family range is home to some of the most popular evergreen lines including Perudo, the liar dice game of both skill and luck; Pointless, the interactive game based on the popular TV show; Who’s in the Bag?, the game of guessing who or what from the clues given; and Blurt, an hilarious fast pace race to find the right answer.

A new addition to these bestselling lines is the TV Classic Bullseye Game and Mini Dice Game. With Bully back on our screens this quarter, and darts seeing a huge surge of players and viewers, these games make the perfect gift. Players first take aim at the dartboard with magnetic darts, then attempt to answer challenging trivia questions across the nine TV show’s categories to win Bully’s Star Prize. The Bullseye Mini Dice Game can be played on its own or as an add-on to the main game, creating “super, smashing, great” family fun at home or on the go.

For competitive board game enthusiasts, the new Buying Time is a fastpaced strategic party game, combining risk-taking betting with verbal and acting challenges. Players must buy enough time to answer all the card questions and win money. Perfect for up to 10 players, this is a great choice for a fun-packed games night.

Finally, an exciting Q4 release that fits perfectly in the Lagoon Gift range is the new floral-themed collection of immersive 3D Puzzles featuring bouquets of carnations, roses or sunflowers. This makes a thoughtful and attractive alternative two-in-one gift for Valentine’s Day, birthdays or special occasion flowers.

Call: 0207 254 0100

Email: sales@ugames.uk.com

Visit: www.university-games.co.uk

Let’s party!

James Galt - Jumbo Group

The fun party game Hitster is back with a new edition. Guilty Pleasures features the most outrageous hits from the past decades. Shamelessly build your timeline with Guilty Pleasures because, let’s be honest, everyone can secretly sing along to them, right?

This is a loud, proud celebration of the songs we secretly (or not so secretly) love, from Steps to Shakira, and Backstreet Boys to B*Witched. Tapping into the joy of guilty pleasures brings people together - whether they’re singing in a club, belting out lyrics in a kitchen soiree, or reminiscing over Christmas dinner.

Challenge yourself, engage your imagination, and dive into this brand-new edition. Get ready to puzzle and party like never before!

Call: 0161 428 9111

Email: salesuk@jumboplay.com

Visit: www.jumboplay.com

Tropical twist SANTORO

Bangoberry’s collection of puzzles brings the vibrant world of Bingo Bango Island to life through fun, engaging artwork that’s perfect for both kids and adults. Designed with entertainment and development in mind, the range of puzzles combines cheerful characters with playful, easy-to-handle pieces.

The 48-piece puzzles, starring the original Bangoberry duo Pally Panda and Piggy Pig, are ideal for younger puzzlers who are just getting started. With bold colours and tropical-themed backgrounds, they’re as durable as they are delightful.

For slightly older children or those ready for more of a challenge, the 100-piece jigsaw puzzles o er two exciting designs: Sweet Summer and Fruit Fiesta. Each puzzle is bursting with island flair, featuring various Bangoberry characters and fantastical artwork that’s worth keeping pieced together to be used as a decor piece.

With eye-catching designs and strong entertainment appeal, the Bangoberry puzzles make excellent gifts. Whether it’s quiet time at home or a rainy day boredom buster, these puzzles deliver screen-free fun that’s full of personality for everyone to love.

Call: 0208 7811104

Email: sales@santoro-london.com

Visit: https://santorotrade.com/

New releases

Gibsons Games

Gibsons Games, the British heritage brand known for its beautifully crafted games & puzzles, is celebrating a vibrant season of new releases.

Leading the line-up is Abstractable, a fast-paced creative party game where players race against the clock to make a masterpiece with whacky magnetic shapes - with no art skills required! Designed for ages six-plus, it’s perfect for families and social gatherings, o ering laugh-out-loud moments and imaginative gameplay.

Also new is the Classic Games Collection: a premium range created in collaboration with The Art File. Featuring timeless favourites like Backgammon, Chess, Dominoes, Shut the Box and Bingo, each game is housed in elegant, foildetailed packaging, making it ideal for gifting in the run-up to Christmas.

Finally, the much-loved Puzzle Advent Calendar returns for Christmas 2025, featuring 24 festive jigsaws illustrated by The Art File. With puzzles made from 100% recycled board, Gibsons continues to champion sustainability as a certified B Corp and recipient of the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. Call: 020 8661 8866

Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk

Visit: www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Award-winning line-up

Orchard Toys

Orchard Toys’ award-winning line-up of educational games and jigsaws is loved by parents, teachers and children, making them a must-have sales opportunity for retailers.

All feature fun gameplay, bright, colourful illustrations, thick, quality card pieces for durability, and ‘Learning Made Fun’ sits at the heart of each product – plus they o er shoppers great price points.

Giant Road is a large, interchangeable road-themed floor jigsaw puzzle. With 20 interchangeable pieces, it gives children the opportunity to build a di erent road layout every time. The puzzle can also be used to teach children about road safety, and roleplay can be explored by adding a child’s toy car.

Unicorn Fun! is one of Orchard Toys best-selling games, and is great for birthday and Christmas gifting. It comes with three fun and magical unicornthemed games in one box, o ering varied entertainment and great value.

My First Snakes & Ladders is an ideal introduction to boardgames and traditional gameplay for younger players. It features a super-big jigsaw playing board, chunky 3D playing pieces that are ideal for little hands, and colourful illustrations. Ideal for two to four players, the game is designed to encourage group play, turn taking, and developing number and counting skills.

Call: 01953 859530

Email: sales@orchardtoys.com

Visit: www.orchardtoys.com

Creature feature

Bigjigs Toys

Get ready for a stampede of fun with the Animal Shut The Box Game: a timeless strategy game with an adorable twist. Suitable for kids aged three and above, this beautifully crafted wooden game features colourful animal designs instead of numbers to keep them amused.

Simply spin the dial and race your opponent to flip down all the animals on your side. As you take it in turns to spin the dial, the aim is to land on all eight of the animals. The first to flip down all of their animals is the champion!

This traditional game also encourages wildlife learning as players learn the names of the animals, and boosts their early maths confidence as they count how many of the creature cards they’ve flipped down.

The compact box is made from high-quality, sustainably sourced wood, and is ideal for storage and on-the-go fun.

Call: 01303 212691

Email: help@bigjigstoys.co.uk

Visit: www.bigjigstoys.co.uk

Game on!

Thames & Kosmos

Thames & Kosmos has a proud history in the games & puzzles category, and 2025 has been one of its most exciting years yet.

Open-ended play

CONNETIX

CONNETIX, the award-winning Australian brand of premium magnetic tiles, is releasing three magnetic tile ranges - Portal, Glitter, and Light Up - alongside a magnetic tile line designed for older builders: CONNETIX PRO.

The CONNETIX PRO: 70 Piece PRO Constructor Set is an advanced building experience. With CONNETIX Smart-Spin technology - an innovation that enables ultra powerful magnets to rotate 360° within the tile and ‘click’ into place - builders are able to construct in exciting new directions and engineer like never before.

The CONNETIX Glitter Unicorn Pack o ers a fresh take on glitter, with ultra-fine iridescent glitter that creates a multi-coloured sparkle e ect. It features a combination of glitter magnetic tiles in dazzling clear and vibrant bright colours.

With a focus on innovation and open-ended play, CONNETIX has designed each pack to grow with children as learning progresses, o ering limitless open-ended play possibilities, skill development and family bonding opportunities.

Call: 07803 877158

Email: wholesale@connetixtiles.com

Visit: www.connetixtiles.com

Leading the way is Australis, Kosmos’s flagship release at this year’s UK Games Expo. This family-friendly dice battle game made a major splash, winning both the Judges’ Choice for Best Dice Game and the People’s Choice Award (General). Its blend of strategic scoring and accessible gameplay has made it a hit with players of all ages. Visually, the game stands out too. Inspired by the East Australian Current, Australis features soothing pastel artwork that has proven a hit on social media, boosting its visibility and appeal.

When it comes to puzzles and logic games, Ingenious 3D marks a smart evolution of a classic. The addition of a third dimension brings fresh strategic depth to the gameplay and adds a tactile, engaging twist that makes it a great pick for game nights.

Games releases will continue through the rest of 2025, with a new addition to the Kosmos Master of Crime series (Mosquito) coming soon, along with Covenant from Devir (launching at Essen in October), and many more.

Call: 01580 713000

Email: sales@thamesandkosmos.co.uk

Visit: www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk

“We

were over

Clare Turner catches up with Hannah Bishop, co-owner of Cornucopia Home & Gift in Worcester, winner of the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - Midlands & Wales category of The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025

Why did you decide you wanted to be a gift retailer?

My Mum Clare’s background is in floristry, and after working for the original owners of Cornucopia, the opportunity came up for us to take over the shop in 2014. We instantly knew it was the right move - it felt like fate.

Back then I was studying Interior Design and working in the shop on Saturdays, learning far more than I realised at the time. I’d spend my weekends unpacking deliveries, helping Mum style the windows, and chatting away to customers, soaking in the buzz of retail life.

I loved seeing how a new display could stop people in their tracks, or how the right gift could make someone’s day. By 2016, I was on board full-time, and what began as a Saturday job quickly became a shared passion and a business we’ve poured our hearts into ever since.

Tell us a bit about Cornucopia Home & Gift.

It’s been part of Worcester’s independent retail scene since 1985, but our chapter began in 2014 when we took over and began shaping it into the shop you see today. Over the past decade, we’ve poured our creativity (and a fair bit of ladderclimbing) into making it a much-loved destination for beautiful homeware and thoughtful gifts.

This year feels extra special: we’re celebrating 40 years of Cornucopia and 10 years in our current location. The shop’s five large windows are one of our proudest features, transformed seasonally into

eye-catching displays that stop passers-by in their tracks. Whether it’s spring florals, cosy autumnal scenes, or the sparkle of Christmas, we see them as our way of telling a story and inviting people in.

And while our bricks-and-mortar store will always be the heart of the business, our busy webshop means we can share the Cornucopia experience far beyond the high street - bringing our products and style to homes all over the UK.

“This year feels extra special”

Congratulations on your win in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025! How did you feel when you heard the news?

We were over the moon - it truly felt like a pinchme moment. Winning was such a heart-warming recognition of the hard work, creativity, and love we’ve poured into Cornucopia over the years. The first thing we wanted to do was share the news with our brilliant team and loyal customers, who’ve been with us through every high, low, and seasonal rush. It felt like the perfect way to mark 10 years since we took on the shop - like the cherry on top of a very busy, very beautiful cake.

Mum couldn’t make it to the ceremony, so my younger sister stepped in as my plus-one. She was every bit as excited (and proud) as I wasand possibly the best cheerleader I could have had for the night.

the moon”

What do you think sets your gift shop apart from others?

At Cornucopia, everything starts with personal touch. Each product is handpicked by the two of us, and we bounce o each other creatively when it comes to buying, styling, and curating the shopoften finding that our di erent perspectives lead to the most inspired choices.

We put a lot of care into how the shop looks and feels, from our seasonal windows that change with the time of year, to the little details that make people linger a little longer. Our range blends fresh, trend-led finds with timeless, thoughtful gifts, so there’s always something for every style and occasion. Above all, we want customers to feel welcome, inspired, and happy they popped in: whether they leave with a gift or just a smile.

How would you describe your range?

It’s a carefully considered edit of gifts, homeware, greeting cards, and seasonal decorations. We focus on products that are well-designed, great quality, and have broad appeal across age groups and occasions - whether it’s a small token or a more statement piece.

As a mother-and-daughter team, we each bring a di erent perspective to buying. I tend to look to Instagram and social media for trend-led inspiration, while Mum prefers to shop in person and draws ideas from magazines and her own eye for timeless style. Together, we build a collection that feels fresh and relevant, yet still has that timeless charm our customers love.

What are your key categories?

Home accessories, children’s gifts, kitchen and dining, greeting cards and stationery, lifestyle gifts, and seasonal items - particularly Christmas, which is always a big focus for us. We love o ering a thoughtful mix of practical, playful, and decorative pieces that cater to all ages and occasions.

Who are your key suppliers?

Some of our favourites include Emma Bridgewater, Gisela Graham, Talking Tables, Widdop & Co., Five Dollar Shake, Caroline Gardner, and Stoneglow. We work closely with a mix of well-loved British brands and design-led suppliers to curate a range that’s both timeless and on-trend.

How do you find products?

We source through a blend of attending key trade shows, including Top Drawer, Spring Fair, and Home & Gift, and maintaining strong relationships with our suppliers and reps. We’re always on the lookout for fresh inspiration, so we also keep an eye on industry news, Instagram, and other digital platforms to stay ahead of new launches and trends.

“We’re starting to explore more interior-led ranges”

What’s your selection criteria?

Every product has to tick a few boxes. It has to be well-made, visually appealing, and within our pricing strategy. We always ask ourselves: would we buy it, would we gift it, and would it look great in the shop? If the answer is yes, it’s in. We aim to balance bestsellers with unique finds, refreshing our collection regularly to keep things exciting, while staying true to Cornucopia’s style and loyal customer base.

Which products are proving popular?

Emma Bridgewater’s mugs are consistently popular, especially the seasonal designs - customers often come back to add to their collections. Caroline Gardner’s giftware and stationery ranges also remain strong sellers, particularly around key gifting occasions

like birthdays and Mother’s Day. More recently, Talking Tables’ ceramic and enamel pieces have been a brilliant addition to our o ering. They’re beautifully designed, practical, and make perfect gifts.

What’s by the till?

We keep a selection of easy pick-up delights: the little extras that customers love to add on at the last minute. Right now, you’ll find pretty pocket tissues, Oli Olsen keyrings, a rotating mix of pickup cards, and Compton & Clarke’s pocket charms, which are always a hit - they’re thoughtful, a ordable, and ideal for gifting. We also display Belly Button’s keepsake cards, which are beautifully made and perfect for those meaningful moments.

What are some of your latest arrivals?

Caroline Gardner’s beautiful new gifting range, and a selection of plushies from Widdop & Co. that are already turning heads in the shop. We’ve also added some fun little pick-me-ups from Kikkerland, which are quirky, clever, and perfect for impulse gifting. St Eval and Stoneglow are also regular deliveries for us, keeping our candle and home fragrance o ering fresh and seasonal.

How’s trading been for you so far this year?

Like many independents, we’ve had to contend with an increase in shoplifting, which is both disheartening and challenging to manage. It’s meant tightening our security measures and being even more vigilant on the shop floor.

Alongside that, we’re navigating changing shopping habits, but have adapted with a stronger online presence, a refined product mix, and active social media. Seasonal gifting and online sales are both on the rise, and our location continues to be a strength - footfall in the centre of Worcester has actually been higher than last year.

Cornucopia Home & Gift

Have you noticed any trends in the gifts that people are buying?

Customers are definitely buying more gifts, and we’ve noticed a growing demand for meaningful, well-made products - especially those with a personal or humorous touch. There’s also a noticeable interest in sustainable gifting and items that bring a sense of comfort or joy. Whether it’s something thoughtful, practical, or just a little mood-lifter, people seem more focused than ever on giving gifts that feel special.

Who is your core clientele?

We have a broad customer base, from loyal local shoppers who’ve supported us for years, to tourists and online customers from across the UK. In-store, our demographic includes many women aged 30 to 65, but we also welcome families, students, and younger professionals on a regular basis. With Cornucopia having been part of Worcester’s independent shopping scene for 40 years, we’ve built a loyal following that spans generations.

How do you get the word out there?

We use Instagram to communicate with our audience, promote new arrivals, and share behindthe-scenes content. Our visual merchandising and windows also play a big role in drawing people in from the high street.

We regularly support local events and collaborate with neighbouring independents, and our customer service is very much relationshipled; we get to know our customers and make them feel welcome.

Do you offer any services?

Yes, we o er gift vouchers, host seasonal instore events, and run occasional giveaways and competitions online. These all help strengthen our customer relationships and build community around the shop.

What’s next for your gifts?

We’re starting to explore more interior-led ranges - think considered home accessories, statement pieces, and design details that elevate a space. It’s a natural progression for us, especially with my background in interior design.

Our customers already come to us for items that make their homes feel special, so expanding into this area feels like the perfect fit. We want to o er pieces that not only make beautiful gifts but also become part of someone’s everyday life.

What’s next for your business?

We’re in the early stages of launching Cornucopia Design Studio: an exciting new arm of the business that brings our love of interiors to life beyond the shop floor. It will o er interior styling services, bespoke consultations, and tailored design advice, whether that’s refreshing a single room, pulling together a cohesive colour palette, or helping to style a home for a special occasion.

“We’re in the early stages of launching Cornucopia Design Studio”

The idea has grown quite naturally from what we already do in the shop. Customers often comment on our window displays or ask for tips on how to style the pieces they’ve bought from us, so the Design Studio will give us the space to take that one step further. With my background in interior design and Mum’s incredible eye for detail and practicality, we can offer a service that blends creativity with a personal, approachable touch.

Our goal is to make design feel accessible and enjoyable, whether someone’s looking for a small update or a complete transformation. We’ll be developing packages to suit di erent needs and budgets, and, just like in Cornucopia, everything will be rooted in creating spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and uniquely “them”.

What do you like most about your job?

Working alongside Mum, from choosing products together at trade shows, to creating window displays side by side. After so many years, we don’t even need to talk when we’re buying - one look at each other and we know instantly if something is “us” or not. There’s an unspoken understanding in how we work, and that makes running the shop together even more special.

And least?

Probably rotas, juggling holiday requests, endless bits of paperwork, and the occasional stockroom chaos. It’s the behind-the-scenes side of retail that most people don’t see - the part where you’re knee-deep in delivery boxes, trying to make sense of stock that somehow multiplies overnight, all while figuring out who’s working when. It’s not the glamorous bit, but it’s part of what keeps everything else running smoothly.

Finally, what’s your current favourite gift on your shelves?

Right now, I’m loving the new vases and planters from One World Trading. They have such a timeless look and work for so many occasionsfrom housewarmings to birthdays - that I couldn’t resist taking a couple home myself. They add instant style without even trying.

Mum’s completely smitten with the storage jars from Nkuku. She loves anything that’s both practical and beautiful, and I swear she gets just as much joy from lining them up in her kitchen as she does from filling them!

Top 5 Best Sellers

1. Emma Bridgewater

Dog Mugs: always a favourite with animal lovers and collectors alike

2. Talking Tables Ceramic Fish Candleholder: a real standout piece that’s been incredibly well received

3. Caroline Gardner

Ceramic Plate: stylish, practical, and perfect for gifting

4. Five Dollar Shake cards: beautifully made and ideal for special occasions

5. Rosie Made A Thing cards: humorous, relatable designs that customers return for again and again

Destination Delhi

More than 3,000 exhibitors of home, lifestyle, fashion, furnishings, furniture, gifts and interiors are set to connect with buyers from over 100 nations at the 60th IHGF Delhi Fair this autumn

Billed as the world’s largest gathering of handicraft exhibitors under one roof, IHGF Delhi Fair is celebrating its 60th edition this autumn. Known for its scale, diversity and dynamic offerings, IHGF continues to evolve in response to global sourcing trends, delivering a future-ready, buyer-focused trade platform.

Strongly supported by leading manufacturer exporters in India and a thriving international community treating India as their preferred sourcing hub, the exhibition will take place from October 13 to October 17 at the India Expo Center & Mart in Greater Noida, Delhi-NCR.

This milestone event will feature more than 3,000 exhibitors from across India, representing key product segments in home, lifestyle, fashion, furnishings, furniture, gifts and interiors.

As one of the most trusted sourcing destinations for handcrafted products, the IHGF Delhi Fair attracts thousands of global buyers, including importers, retail chains, department stores, wholesalers, designers, and buying agents, drawn by its exceptional variety, customisation capabilities, and competitive pricing. Successive editions have consistently seen trade visitors and sourcing representation from well over 100 countries.

IHGF Delhi Fair’s Autumn 2025 edition promises to elevate the sourcing experience with immersive product displays, new concepts and design innovations, dedicated theme pavilions, artisanal fare, and live craft demonstrations - as well as fashion and ramp presentations, knowledge sessions, and  buyer-centric networking zones.

With an increased focus on eco-conscious manufacturing, handcrafted value additions and artisanal creativity, buyers can expect expressive surface finishes, emotionally resonant designs, and trend-forward collections that blend tradition with modernity.

The Fair boasts expansive 16 categories including home decor and accents; home furnishings; carpets & rugs; textiles & linen; gifts & premiums; lamps & lighting accessories; kitchen & dinnerware; cane, bamboo, paper & eco-friendly products; Christmas & festive décor; fashion jewellery; bags & accessories; aroma, spa &  lifestyle; bathroom accessories; outdoor & gardens; kids, babies’ toys & accessories; and furniture & interiors - all displayed across 16 gigantic halls and 900 Mart Showrooms.

Visitors will also benefit from a dedicated mobile app for seamless navigation and scheduling, hospitality lounges, refreshment areas, cultural showcases, and interactive zones, creating a holistic and memorable experience.

At the 60th IHGF Delhi Fair, you can expect a celebration of Indian craftsmanship, design excellence and global collaboration, reaffirming India’s role as a key player in the international home & lifestyle products market.

• IHGF Delhi Fair is organised twice a year as Spring and Autumn editions by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), described as the apex organization representing handicraft manufacturers and exporters in India.

EPCH facilitates its 10,000-plus members to customise and offer unique styles and quality products to the global sourcing community. Beyond providing business platforms to buyers and sellers, EPCH also provides comprehensive information about the sector to international buyers, and ensures optimal interface between the Indian handicrafts industry and international buyers, facilitating harmonious business.

What: IHGF Delhi Fair

Where: India Expo Center & Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi-NCR

When: October 13-17

Visit: www.ihgfdelhifair.in/register | www.epch.in

Trade talk

Leading gift suppliers reflect on the trends set to shape autumn, and reveal how they’re preparing for the crucial Q4 trading period

Keith Edmondson Joint Managing Director Langs

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

We enjoyed an excellent Harrogate show, receiving an outstanding response to the pre-launch of our first range for 2026, which we’ve entitled First Look 2026. For those seeking exclusively designed giftware, it’s well worth discovering why demand has been so strong.

Visitor numbers appeared broadly in line with previous years. However, we found that customers spent more time on our stand, resulting in stronger sales than in 2024.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

Retail remains a challenging environment, and our experience shows that products with a clear point of difference, strong visual appeal, and an accessible price point perform best. At Langs, we’re committed to supporting our valued customers by bringing all these elements together in our ranges - with each one created by our talented in-house design team here in Derby.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

We’re heading into Q4 with energy and focus. Our seasonal ranges are well prepared and already proving popular, and our team is ready to support customers every step of the way. With exciting new designs, and efficient delivery plans in place, we’re in a great position to make this our best Q4 yet. What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

Our Christmas 2025 range, launched back in January, has been a resounding success and strong sales have kept up momentum throughout the year. Each year, customers are looking to secure Christmas stock earlier, with many now requesting their pre-orders for Christmas in August to ensure they’re fully prepared for this crucial season. We do still have some ranges available, but would encourage any customers yet to place their orders to do so promptly.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

The standouts for 2025 have undoubtedly been those ranges where our design team has created something both exclusive and aligned with our customers’ needs. We’ve also seen strong success with bespoke designs, developed to meet individual customer requirements and making full use of the skills we have inhouse to create offerings tailored to specific themes or trends.

Vanessa Curry Managing Director Best Kept

Secrets

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

Harrogate was as lovely as ever. It’s such a relaxed, welcoming show, and we had some great conversations with both existing stockists and new faces. Footfall felt steady, but the real highlight was the quality of visitors. People came ready to buy, and the response to our new Just Because Duos was fantastic. It’s always a joy to be part of that atmosphere.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

We’re expecting lots of earthy, woodland scents, alongside that soft, clean cosiness which people love when the nights draw in. Our Luminescent Three Lites: Midnight Rose & Oud fits right in; warm woods, a hint of spice, and a touch of sweetness that makes it perfect for creating that cosy, luxurious feel at home.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

Moving into our new, much bigger home has been a gamechanger. We’ve got the space to make more, store more, and keep everything running smoothly under one roof. It means we can hit the ground running with plenty of stock and some lovely new launches ready for the Christmas rush.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

We know how important it is to keep shelves full right up to Christmas Eve, so we’re building up our bestsellers now and keeping things flexible to handle those last-minute “help!” orders. It’s all about making life easier for our stockists, and making sure their customers find something special every time they visit.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

Without a doubt, The Red One will be our go-to collection this year. The buzz from Harrogate has already translated into strong forward orders. Christmas Elegance in our gold tins is another firm favourite. It’s in stock, ready to go, and we’ve built up plenty of reserves so no one misses out.

Stephen Thurlow Director Alexander Thurlow

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

To be honest, we’re lucky in that we don’t really need to follow trends so much. Our flowers are great all-yearround generic sellers. We added gold finish to the range last year, and that seems to have opened up new sales to a younger market.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

We seem to start even earlier preparing for Q4. We already have stock on the water, and back in July we finished forecasting sales for Christmas based on last year’s figures. Fortunately, we have very good suppliers who can turn round our orders in a timely manner, should we find ourselves short.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

We aim to get orders out within two days, so we have brought in extra sta to help. Plus, it’s all hands on deck when the orders really kick o .

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

We have a wonderful range of Christmas jewellery which we expect to sell well. But you usually only get one hit with these, so it’s not always easy to get the stock quite right. After that, our best sellers are still our Bluebells, Iris, Forget Me Nots and Lilies.

Tim Hollis

Retail Brand Development Manager Talking Tables

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

We returned from Harrogate very pleased with the reception to our new season product launches. Footfall on the main days was brisk, and our location in DP1 attracted high-quality customers, from both national and independent retailers.

Sales at the show are mainly for independents who are ordering for Christmas, and we see many return customers year in, year out which is brilliant. We had multiple products in the Better Trends area at the show which acted as a draw to new and existing customers.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

We’ve extended our enamel tableware into both autumn and Christmas ranges, building on the success of our Bon Appetit summer collection. Focusing on reusable homeware, we’re very excited about new launches including our ceramic animal-inspired candleholders, which are proving to be a real talking point.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

We’re receiving seasonal stock as we speak, and building

David Cree Sales Director Joe Davies

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

Home & Gift is always a great show for us with the usual number of quality customers visiting our stand. The timing means it really is the perfect springboard for the Christmas period. Buyers are always keen to secure their stock before the Autumn Fair rush, and the relaxed atmosphere at this Harrogate show remains as popular as ever.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

Highland Cows remains the most on-trend theme at the moment and with our extensive collection, including many new additions launched at Home & Gift, we have something for all price points and tastes! Our Village Pottery collection of tealight houses also continues to go from strength to strength.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

Business really cranks up from August 1. We increase the number of sta in our warehouse for the busy period to make sure we can get orders out promptly and e ciently. We have also made a real conscious e ort to get stock in earlier, to allow customers to make the most of the whole season.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

All orders for Christmas items placed since the beginning of the year have had stock allocated and are fully amendable - allowing customers both security and flexibility. We pride ourselves on our customer service, and our ‘little and often’ ordering system means customers can buy sensible quantities and repeat their winners. Early delivery also means that customers can really make the most of the busy period.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

As well as Highland Cows and Village Pottery, we’re experiencing strong sales of LED Xmas decorations, glass and ceramic tealights, LED balls, and Christmas cuties. Hitting the key price points is more important than ever - and we have a huge range of items that are priced to achieve that.

stock levels to ensure we can supply our customers quickly, e ciently, and on time. We take pride in carrying stocks throughout the season, so customers can replenish those winning lines.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

By o ering excellent customer service and being able to deliver stock, even during the busiest periods, within a couple of days. We will do everything we can to make this golden quarter the most successful for our loyal customers.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

Products that spark a conversation and stand out in-store with a point of di erence are going to be key this season. From our ceramic animal candleholders paired with our new striped dinner candles, to the new additions within our retro pop nostalgic collections (and not forgetting the revisit of our classic Wonderball in three designs), there’s something for all the family.

Trade talk

Sarah Watmore Owner

Miss Milly

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

Home & Gift was quieter in terms of footfall but, as always, was very strong with regards to customer quality and order values. And we began working with some great new accounts. So overall, we’re pleased with the show and it’s been a good start to the season.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

There is some nervousness in the industry after a quiet June for many, and I think some retailers will play it safe by sticking with the tried-and-tested. Looking at trends, we heard that frogs are apparently the new ‘in’ animal, but I didn’t get a chance to have a good look around and validate that. However, with fashion accessories, dark green and dark red are both winners this season.

How are you gearing up for the allimportant Q4 rush?

We restock based on Home & Gift - although quite often we find that buyers go in a different direction at Autumn Fair! But our warehouse has taken on more staff and we’re ready for a great Golden Quarter.  What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

We strive to offer the best service we can all year round so there are no changes in the pipeline for that. Great customer support is just as important in January and June as it is from September to December.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

Home & Gift highlighted a couple of our new jewellery designs that look set to be winners but, as I mentioned, sometimes that changes completely at Autumn Fair.

Our bestselling Resin Heart jewellery continues to feature in almost all orders, with one colour selling out already. And with green now firmly entrenched in every seasonal palette, our new forest shade is proving very popular.

We launched new magnetic brooches at the end of August and we’re pretty sure they will continue to fly out of the warehouse as an ideal pick-up item and gift.

Zara Grindrod Sales and Brand Director

Rainbow Designs

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

Times are tight and with budgets very much under pressure, consumers are likely to gravitate towards the brands they love and trust.

Popular classic characters like Paddington, Peter Rabbit and Mr. Men Little Miss offer both familiarity and emotional connection, making them trusted choices. Quality and value for money will be more important than ever, and these timeless favourites deliver on both.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

Our sales and operations teams are among the best in the business, working to ensure orders are processed and fulfilled quickly, while our warehouse team keeps stock turnover running seamlessly. With this streamlined approach, we’re fully geared up and ready to meet Q4 demand and keep our retailers stocked up during the busiest time of the year.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

We work year-round to ensure our retailers are fully prepared for Q4, providing an individually tailored product mix and maintaining strong stock levels so they can maximise sales during the peak season. We also have extensive Q4 marketing plans in place across our core ranges to help drive product awareness and sales.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

Paddington, especially our Classic Paddington and Adventures of Paddington ranges, are always standout performers - not just at Christmas but all year round. I also think our new Bing preschool range and the Bonikka Dolls collection from Tikiri Toys will be popular, and the fun and cheeky Mr. Men Little Miss range will feature highly, offering great gifting options for all ages.

Mark Jones Sales Director University Games and Lagoon

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

The show was a fantastic success on many levels. Sales were up, footfall was slightly down from last year, but the quality of customers that visited our stands was high. More importantly though was the constant wave of positive reactions we received from customers about our 2025 range.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends? Everyone obsesses about trends, but we live in a world where money is tight and retailers want certainty, so we focus on what we know works and what we are best at. So, great family fun games that can be picked up and played on multiple occasions, each time offering different outcomes, such as Perudo, Smart Ass, Blurt and Who’s in the Bag?

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

We’re a rare commodity in the industry, with a full-time team of dedicated area managers. They work closely with their customers to individually curate the best range of products available ahead of the Q4 season, and this work begins back as early as Toy Fair in January. So we’re always well prepared for whatever Q4 throws at us.

What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

We will be in regular contact with our customers to make sure we’re in a place to help them with their needs throughout a period where they hardly get a chance to breathe! We also try to ship orders small and often, which we know helps our customers during Q4.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

We have two new great games for families to enjoy this Christmas: the TV Classic Bullseye and the engaging Buying Time board game. I expect both to be incredibly popular. Our National Geographic How Things Work 3D Puzzle range - which includes a Parachute Launcher, Blast Off Rocket, and Racing Car - will also make perfect stocking fillers, and I anticipate a big demand for these products.

Scott Clarke Head of Sales and Operations

Rex B2B

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

2025 saw us return to Home & Gift for the first time in over a decade, so we didn’t have any benchmarks for success in terms of footfall and sales. Our new collections were really well received, especially our new storage tin designs, and we met lots of stockists: current, old, and new. We have rebooked for 2026, where we hope to be able to bring even more stock to show off.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

We were already seeing the rise in popularity of kawaii gifts, but we’re really seeing this boom at the moment. The kawaii style is quite unique in that it has wide appeal to both children and adults, and translates well to a range of lines from toys and stationery to beauty accessories and home decor.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush?

We’ve been geared up for a while! We have good instincts as to what will sell well when the festive season hits, and we try to make sure that it is in stock in good time. From our consumer site data we can see that shoppers are already looking for Christmas gifts, so we know we need to be ready earlier than ever before. What plans do you have in place to support retailers with their Christmas orders?

There is no minimum order when ordering from us, which really helps retailers do those all important top-ups during peak shopping season. We have more than 2,000 products available and ready to dispatch, with many more new lines set to arrive between now and Christmas, so retailers don’t need to worry about keeping their stores looking fresh.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

We have a really strong collection of stocking fillers for children which is our top performing category every year. We offer nostalgic and novelty gifts which kids (and grown-ups!) can’t resist. This year we expect to see strong sales of our really fun Sticky Poo Slingshot, and we have a new character joining our bestselling collection of mini soft toys in a box - watch this space!

Gillian Marchbank Managing director Remaldi Eyewear

If you exhibited at Home & Gift, how was it for you?

It was a great success. While Tuesday definitely felt quieter than usual in terms of footfall, overall sales were excellent. We were significantly up on both the number of orders taken and the average order value. So it was clear that buyers were actively looking for new product options - perhaps ones they hadn’t considered before. That said, with a relatively low trade price point, you do need to do a lot of sales to hit that magic break-even figure. But we were more than happy with the result and came away feeling very positive. Harrogate delivered exactly what we needed it to.

Looking ahead to autumn, what are your forecasts for key trends?

We’re forecasting a strong shift towards a rich, earthy colour palette for A/W25. Shades such as amber, flame, cherry red, olive, and especially brown (set to be the standout colour of the season) are all gaining momentum. We’ve incorporated all of these tones in our upcoming reading glasses collection, ensuring the range is perfectly aligned! We expect continued demand for larger frames as well as the enduring influence of 1990s styling (think slim ovals and sleek rectangles). This dual trend allows us to cater to all tastes.

How are you gearing up for the all-important Q4 rush ?

Although Q4 is busy, it’s not typically our peak period. Our busiest time is always Q1, when Remaldi sunglasses demand kicks in, combined with February’s Spring Fair. It’s always a bit manic!

For Q4, it’s more of an ‘all hands on deck’ approach. We’ll be focused on making sure all orders are processed and dispatched promptly to support our stockists through the gifting season. It’s about being efficient, responsive, and ready to jump in wherever needed to keep it running smoothly.

What do you predict will be your standout festive performers?

Our new RFID animal print card wallets have already generated a lot of interest. They’re stylish, practical, and perfect as stocking fillers. Alongside those, the new licensed collection by Brilliantly Brave looks set to be a standout. We took a lot of orders for both ranges at Home & Gift, which is always a good early indicator.

I’m also excited about our new Eyefold slim glasses cases. They come in eight on-trend colours and feature a detachable bag clip, making them as functional as they are giftable. With a retail price from just £8, they hit that sweet spot for affordable, practical gifting. All in all, we’re feeling confident that these products will resonate strongly with customers looking for thoughtful, well-priced gifts this Christmas.

“A

real one-of-a-kind

With its rich heritage, dedicated team, and eye for the unusual, Strickland and Holt in Yarm has been crowned Independent Gift Retailer of the Year for the North, Northern Ireland and Scotland in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025. Clare Turner talks to manager Paddy Morton about the department store’s journey, the secrets behind its success, and what lies ahead…

Walking through the doors of Strickland and Holt feels like stepping into history. Based in Yarm-on-Tees (or simply Yarm), the independent retailer first opened in 1854 as a pharmacy and general store, and more than 170 years later, it remains the anchor of the North Yorkshire market town’s High Street.

Still family-owned and managed, it is now a small department store with gifts, greeting cards, toys, fashion & accessories departments and a co ee shop, and has evolved into a destination in its own right.

For manager Paddy Morton, who joined the business 17 years ago, the success of Strickland and Holt’s gift department has been both a labour of love and a team e ort.

That dedication was recently recognised when the store was named Independent Gift Retailer of the Year for the North, Northern Ireland and Scotland in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2025.

“We were over the moon to win,” he says. “We’re very proud of our gift department and our sta who run it. A huge amount of e ort goes into the displays, product and ‘management’ to wow and impress our customers and visitors. So to get some recognition of that is great.”

What makes Strickland and Holt stand out is more than just its legacy. Paddy says that while “the character of the shop gives it a great atmosphere, with our ‘clackety’ wooden floor and old swing doors, ultimately it’s our product range,

magical displays, and passionate and dedicated sta that set us apart.”

He describes his gift merchandise as midpremium ranges which are good quality and attractively packaged. “Our products are often a bit di erent, and always a bit special,” he says.

“Our products are often a bit different, and always a bit special”

Key categories are candles, wax melts, soaps, vases, sentimental keepsakes and locally-made goods. Popular performers include charity Arthouse Unlimited’s chocolate bars, Heaven Scent wax melts, Joe Davies’ Village Pottery houses, crystals for pick-up lines, vases and pots of all designs - and fish jugs, which are currently trending.

On the counter and by the till, customers are tempted with mini cards by Louise Mulgrew, East of India mini porcelain hearts, “and our own homemade Yarm Salad Dressing, which is amazing”. (Strickland and Holt has been making this salad dressing in Yarm for over 40 years, using a secret family recipe.)

New arrivals currently delighting customers include the colourful Caroline Gardner gift range, fresh Floralsilk summer picks, fruity gift sets from

family business”

The Somerset Toiletry Company, and “delicious chocolate from local York-based artisan maker Guppy’s Chocolates”.

Sourcing products is a blend of instinct and research. While recommendations from trusted reps play a role, Paddy and his team also turn to trade shows such as Home & Gift and Spring Fair, as well as online discovery.

“Our selection criteria can be summed up in a nutshell: we look for quality products that are unusual, but with broad appeal,” he says. “Judging that appeal relies on the experience and instinct of our buyers.”

Like many independent retailers, Strickland and Holt has faced some trading challenges in recent years, from rising costs to shifts in customer behaviour. Yet Paddy feels more optimistic than he has since the pandemic.

“We had a better start to the year with a later Easter. And while cost increases remain a big challenge, I feel that for the first time since Covid, retail and customer behaviour is a bit more stable,” he says. “So I’ve been more confident with my ordering for the second half of the year.” He’s also noticed subtle changes in buying patterns. For example, many customers have traded down a candle size, from a jar to a tin, he notes.

For decades, Strickland and Holt’s reputation has been spread by word of mouth. Today, social media has amplified that reach. “Social media really is the new ‘word of mouth’ on rocket fuel,” says Paddy. “So we’re really focused on growing our online presence and activity.”

Alongside that, the shop continues to o er services such as gift vouchers and gift wrapping. “Packaging can be expensive, but the presentation of our in-store, postal and online orders is something we’re also always looking to improve in a coste ective way,” he comments.

Despite its heritage, Strickland and Holt is far from standing still. “We’re building an external lift

to improve accessibility for all customers to our upstairs. We are also investing in a balcony to provide a beautiful and unique new outside seating area for our co ee shop customers,” Paddy reveals.

On the product side, he is particularly keen to expand and improve the shop’s own designed product, particularly ‘local’ themed product of Yarm and the area, and food, because “unique product works well for local and online sales”.

Asked what he loves most about his role, Paddy doesn’t hesitate: “Our lovely customers. It’s always a pleasure to meet and help them. And it’s always satisfying to see new product - which we’ve foundbeing well received by customers.”

“Social media really is the new ‘word of mouth’ on rocket fuel”

The biggest challenge, he admits, is maintaining consistently high levels of service during the busiest times. “I get frustrated if we ever fall short of giving customers the best experience.”

And as for his favourite products on the shelves? He points to the Caroline Gardner Hearts ceramic mug with its quirky handle, as well as the beer-themed soaps from The Somerset Toiletry Company, which proved a Father’s Day hit.

From its Victorian roots to its modern-day success, Strickland & Holt remains a living example of how independent retail can thrive: blending history, community, creativity and care.

For Paddy and his team, the award win is not just recognition of past achievements but motivation to keep pushing forward. “Strickland and Holt is a real one-of-a-kind family business,” he says with a smile. And that’s what makes it special - and keeps customers coming back.

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Independent gift retailers share summer sales trends and spill the beans on bestsellers, fresh finds, and how they’re getting set for the upcoming season

Linda McBride

Gibbles Gifts, Cards & Home

Anstruther

Fife

How’s summer trading been for you?

Summer trading has been good for us so far, with lots of visitors coming to the town. It’s a lovely area which people are always happy to visit, but we’re also very lucky that our local customers support us throughout the whole year too.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Brands which continue to sell well for us include Inis - Fragrances of Ireland, Joma Jewellery bracelets, Emma Ball regional products (Kingdom of Fife), and Gisela Graham across the board. Scented car diffusers from Rosy Roo are flying off the shelves and it’s hard to keep up with demand!

What are some of your newest arrivals?

We recently took in quirky little crochet products from The Gnome Garden

These come with a little positive message attached and they’ve been phenomenal sellers for us. We’ve also started stocking chocolate products from The Cambridge Confectionery Company, and these are proving very popular.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

We already have most of our orders in the pipeline for the coming season. We placed some as far back as Spring Fair, and others at Home & Gift. We’ve ordered lots of lovely candles for the ‘cosy’ season along with scarves, hats and gloves - which sell like hotcakes, especially with our colder Scottish climate!

We love decking the shop out with Christmas decorations, and usually have curated ranges from Gisela Graham and Langs, alongside some other smaller suppliers such as LT Creations and All That Glitters (two Scottish companies which have some beautiful handmade products bearing our town’s name).

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Being in a seaside town, good weather is always helpful in ensuring visitors come here. So, sunshine well into September would be an absolute blessing for our business right now. I’m maybe hoping for a miracle on that front though!

Lindsey ScottWalker

Owner Feather Robins

Weston Favell

Shopping Centre

Northampton

How’s summer trading been for you?

Surprisingly, summer has exceeded our expectations. Despite the usual seasonal unpredictability, we’ve seen stronger footfall and better conversion than anticipated. It’s been a welcome boost and a sign that our local customer base is continuing to grow and engage.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Life Charms bracelets have been a standout success: the perfect combination of sentiment and affordability. Now that we’ve been in our current location for just over a year, we’re really beginning to understand the buying behaviours of our customers. One insight is the importance of family-led gifting, so we’ve invested more in the “in-law” gift category, which has shown strong returns.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

We’ve recently introduced Teddy-Hermann plush toys and Warmies, both of which are already proving popular with customers. Warmies, in particular, are set to feature heavily in our seasonal campaigns as we head into the cooler months. Their comforting warmth, gifting appeal, and calming lavender fragrance make the perfect trio. I’m quietly hoping that the soothing scent will bring a little serenity to our busiest trading days too!

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

We’re looking forward to Autumn Fair, which always helps us get into the Christmas mindset and plan strategically for Q4. It’s a great opportunity to discover new suppliers, find fresh inspiration, and solidify our festive buying plans. I’m also going to a Maileg pop-up event to view its A/W25 and Christmas collections.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Greater visibility and support for independent retailers on the high street would be a real game-changer. We offer a curated, thoughtful shopping experience that’s difficult to replicate online or in larger chains, but getting that message across to new customers remains a challenge. Increased footfall and stronger local awareness would have a significant impact.

Amy McCusker Founder  WeeBox Scotland

Subscription box online retailer

How’s summer trading been for you? Summer has been steady with a good uplift due to our Highland Cow theme and excitement around the new Outlander prequel “Blood of My Blood”! Summer is often our quieter season, but we’ve worked hard to keep everything fresh with lots of giveaways and fun competitions too.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Our Ty Beanie Boos Angus the Highland Cow plushie is a winner. It’s been a while since we shared something like this with our subscribers, and they’re loving it.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

Each month we work hard to surprise and delight with each new WeeBox theme, so we have new makers and gifts arriving all of the time.

Some of my personal favourites are a bespoke lip balm from The Purple Sage and a glorious silk scarf designed by acclaimed artist Michelle Goring.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

Well… I start early that’s for sure, and our winter seasonal WeeBoxes are full already. It’s my favourite time of the year, and this time round we have some real surprises in store for our global WeeBox Clan. I always attend Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn to meet and hear of new makers for the year ahead.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Exporting is still challenging. If we could remove all barriers for exporting to Europe, that would bring back a vibrant market for us in a flash - and grow our business… We can dream!

Cathy Frost

Owner

Loveone

Ipswich

Suffolk

How’s summer trading been for you?

So far so good. In Ipswich we’ve had pop singer Ed Sheeran’s ‘homecoming concerts’ [at Portman Road stadium, the home of his beloved Ipswich Town FC], and we’re part of the ‘Hop To It!’ art trail, which features giant ornately decorated hare sculptures around the town’s streets, parks and open spaces. So footfall and visitor numbers have been strong.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Field Day Ireland wax melts, chocolate from Pump Street Chocolate and Ocelot Chocolate, and cards: from Ohh Deer and Ricicle Cards especially.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

Dorset Chocolate fudge, and The Printed Peanut cards and soap.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

Buying has started - direct to wholesalers and some Faire purchases - and we’re looking forward to Top Drawer for final purchases.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Encourage more employers to push for more staff to return to their workplaces, which would improve footfall on high street.

Richard Barker

Director

Cilla & Camilla

Four Store in West Dorset: Beaminster, Bridport, Sherborne

How’s summer trading been for you?

Summer trade is in line with fairly modest expectations, but no better. July was stronger than May/June, and we are positive about August. Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Jellycat is performing well, as ever. Sales of Hot Tomato jewellery, St Eval candles, Powder accessories, and greeting cards, have been stronger than expected.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

Candlelight mango wood bowls and salad servers; and Bronnley toiletries, which suit our core, mature, female customers.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season? We are preparing for autumn with more early orders than in previous years to secure stock which might be in shortish supply. We are certainly further ahead in our A/W planning than would be typical in terms of window and instore displays, end-of-season clothing sale, advertising, a new website and social media plans. And we will attend Top Drawer A/W.

We are praying with greater commitment! On the subject of praying… we opened a cafe in a converted barn to the rear of our Beaminster store some years ago and it’s been a tremendous success. Profitable in its own right, with sales around £250,000, it brings in extra footfall which helps store sales.

The day before we opened, the local vicar, who we had got to know, offered to bless the new space, which he did with holy water, a sprig of rosemary, and a prayer from the New Zealand Prayer Book (true story!)... The cafe has thrived from day one.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Two more interest rate reductions this year.

Samantha Gibbs Director Nest Stoneygate & Thurlaston Leicestershire

How’s summer trading been for you?

Challenging would be the most appropriate word!

There have been moments of bliss, where customers have been out spending, enjoying the good weather - and often the opportunity for self-purchase. But on the flip side, online and in-store sales do suffer once everyone is on holiday.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Bags (Moda and Long & Son) and, in particular, a lovely range of rattan bags from David Jones have been strong. Summer scarves always do well, and this year we’ve introduced Black Ginger’s Viano scarf and Passion Accessories’ Tassel scarf (which both have fantastic trade prices) that customers have really appreciated.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

We’re already nodding towards gifting for Q4, so the latest arrivals this week have been great new ranges of jigsaws from Hachette and Bookspeed. Plus, we’ve just introduced The Gruffalo. So the new range of Gruffalo plush from Aurora World is working well for us.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

We’ve just come back from Home & Gift, which was fantastic as ever! The main focus was to see new ranges of Autumn/Winter scarves and socks. We’ve gone with Forever England’s gorgeous Millie Mae socks for men and women, and for scarves, we can never resist Zelly’s gorgeous collection.

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Jo Williams Owner/Director

Joco Nuneaton Warwickshire

How’s summer trading been for you?

Due to closing the shop on the high street, being bought out by another company, and moving to a warehouse to trade via social media and online, it’s been a very different summer for us. We’ve had some of the busiest trading weeks for a long time, but they are still far from where we were five to seven years ago.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

We’ve found home fragrance has continued to be a big seller for us this summer. The introduction of the new season’s fragrances has kept our customers happy.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

Ashleigh & Burwood’s summer scents. It was incredibly hard for our customers to choose their new favourites; so many picked up two or three to try!

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

Due to restructuring the business and the loss of the team we had originally, this year’s plans have changed. We will attend Autumn Fair with our minds fixed on certain products. But instead of a one- or two-day visit, we’re hoping to spend three or maybe even four days sourcing new product for our customers.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

Due to switching to mainly online sales - although we do have a showroom being created on-site - marketing is our biggest factor to overcome. We’re relying on our reputation and followers to share the message that we’ve found a way to fight back and rise again within our town. But we hope to reach more customers with the introduction of a brandnew website.

Elaine Taylor

Owner

Glamorous

Gifts

Rothwell

West Yorkshire

How’s summer trading been for you?

It’s been good in general. Especially with the lovely weather, footfall has increased, with more people out in our village in Rothwell.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

It’s hard to pinpoint as we are a general gift shop and each day we sell a wide variation of items, ranging from handbags to gin glasses. The Inis - Fragrances of Ireland home fragrance and body range has been popular (this is a repeat seller), along with seasonal wedding gifts. Obviously items like candles are not such strong sellers with the warm weather.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

New to us is Carrie Elspeth jewellery, which comes in such pretty designs and colours, and offers a very ‘summer holiday’ vibe.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/Winter buying season?

Our Autumn/Winter buying starts in January at Harrogate Christmas & Gift, where we order our Halloween stock, along with Christmas stock. But I’m always on the lookout for new ideas which will carry autumn and winter together.

However, I’ve found that each year, sales of Christmas cards are falling - probably due to the postage costs and the fact that younger generations send text messages instead.

I don’t plan to attend Autumn Fair as I have enough ideas to sustain our shop after the festive season until spring.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

One main factor affecting business is the drop in footfall on the high street, which raises the question of how to best promote shopping locally and encourage people to do so.

Nicola Hibon Jackson

Founder The

Voewood Blackheath

South East London

How’s summer trading been for you?

Overall it’s been mixed. We had a strong start to the S/S season but from late July onwards, most of our customers were definitely taking their annual summer holidays.

Which brands and categories are performing strongly?

Ortigia Sicilia home fragrance is still doing very well for us as a perfect gift. Our ‘I’d Rather Be In..’ range of mugs from Stubbs Mugs is a consistent seller, and HKLIVING is also a repeat performer for gifting - with many recipients then converting to a further sale.

What are some of your newest arrivals?

We’ve had some lovely new inflatable beach cushions from France via Faire. They were attractive not just in design, but because we could buy in a small quantity and with a low carriage - compared with a previous supplier who wanted to charge £100 in shipping, which was 15% of the proposed order value.

How are you getting ready for the Autumn/ Winter buying season?

We reduced all spend from mid-July to the end of August to be able to have cashflow to buy big for the start of September. I’ve already mapped out a lot of our spend for the final quarter. But I’m really looking forward to discovering some gems at Top Drawer.

What one change or factor would really help your business right now?

We would love more support from the local council for our overall retail area. We’ve had issues with anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. which we are tackling as a retail community and have had great engagement from the Met Police. However, in terms of promoting what is our secondary shopping area, which is sandwiched between two highly visited primary centres and a regeneration area… all of those attract local funding and engagement from Greenwich Council. But despite repeated attempts to engage, our secondary shopping area is very overlooked.

Brewing frustration

As business rates continue to weigh heavily on indies, Andrew Goodacre , CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association) , explains why he strongly believes the government’s latest reform falls short

We recently found ourselves on regional television discussing business rates alongside a co ee shop owner from Sta ordshire. His story perfectly encapsulates the devastating impact of the government’s so-called ‘reform’ of business rates on independent retailers across Britain.

This passionate entrepreneur, who has created a beautiful co ee shop that serves as a community hub, was facing sleepless nights. Why? Because his business rates bill has rocketed from just over £3,000 to £8,000 per year - and that’s before applying the reduced 40% Retail, Hospitality and Leisure [RHL] discount. His gross liability sits at just under £13,000 annually. To put this in perspective, he’ll need to sell hundreds more co ees each month just to cover this extortionate increase.

His anguish is shared by thousands of independent retailers across the country. The reduction of the RHL discount from 75% to 40% has already had a dramatic e ect on our members, and this is just the beginning. With multiplier changes on the horizon and the government’s Autumn Statement looming, many fear the worst is yet to come.

The current multiplier system - 49.9p for rateable values below £51,000 and 55.5p above - is set to change, and we’re particularly concerned that any increase above the current 49.9p multiplier will exacerbate the impact already felt from the RHL discount reduction. For medium-sized independent retailers with rateable values above £51,000, we’re looking at rate increases of a whopping minimum 333% between 2024 and 2026.

The government’s promised reform simply doesn’t go far enough. While it helps the smallest retailers with rateable values below £51,000, it leaves thousands of medium-sized independents facing crippling increases. These aren’t corporate giants:

they’re family businesses, local employers, and the backbone of our high streets.

We’re also deeply concerned about independent department stores and retailers operating from higher-value properties, especially in the South East. The new £500,000 threshold for increased multipliers will hit these businesses particularly hard. These are often the anchor stores that help sustain local high streets and communities. Losing them would be catastrophic for town centres already struggling to recover.

“Britain’s high streets deserve a business rates system that supports, rather than strangles, the independent spirit that makes them special”

At Bira, we’re not sitting idly by. During our engagement with HM Treasury in March, we made several specific requests that remain as relevant today as ever. We’ve called for Small Business Rate Relief to be changed so it can apply to more than one property, recognising that many independent retailers operate small chains. We’ve demanded transitional relief for businesses with rateable values above £50,000, who will bear the largest real-terms increase.

We’ve also insisted that the proposed 20p and 10p multiplier reductions should be the minimum, not the maximum, to give businesses better forward-planning ability. We want thresholds increased in line with

inflation to avoid fiscal drag, annual rate reviews to reflect ongoing market changes, and improvement relief extended to five years to encourage investment in technologies including CCTV.

The devil will be in the detail when new multiplier rates are announced in the Autumn Statement. For reform to truly protect the high street, we need certainty that genuine independent retailers won’t be inadvertently caught by rate increases that could threaten their viability.

Independent retailers are the backbone of Britain’s high streets. While we appreciate the government’s recognition of this through targeted relief, we’ll continue to monitor implementation closely to ensure reforms deliver genuine support for the businesses that make our communities vibrant.

That co ee shop owner in Sta ordshire deserves better than sleepless nights worrying about whether he can a ord to keep his doors open. His customers deserve to keep their community hub. And Britain’s high streets deserve a business rates system that supports, rather than strangles, the independent spirit that makes them special.

The government promised to reduce the burden - it’s time they delivered on that promise.

Call: 0800 028 0245 Visit: www.bira.co.uk