www.giftfocus.com July/August 2013 July/August

Issue 78 www.giftfocus.com Head to Harrogate FESTIVE Home & Gift preview CHEER Hubble Part one of Christmas products bubble Stock up for Creature comforts Halloween Accessories for the home

SAY CHEESE! Photo frames & albums

PLUS • Men’s accessories WIN! ™ • Tendence preview Kimmidoll Junior • Introducing food in-store products worth £750 RRP

36

July/August 2013 Issue 78 Managing Editor Lauren Dowey +44 (0)1376 535 611 [email protected] Editor contents Lyndsey Hubbard +44 (0)1376 535 614 [email protected] Editorial Assistant Annie Cannock news&events features Sales Manager industry news 6 fl ying the fl ag 27 Mark White All the latest from the world of gifts Hop & Peck – winners of the Best Gift Award at +44 (0)1376 535 606 [email protected] The British Craft Trade Fair on with the show 10 Sales Executive Sharon Connelly Trade fair dates and news say cheese! 31 +44 (0)1376 535 607 Photo frames and albums [email protected] brand spanking new 14 Production 01376 535 616 Latest launches and hot new products man about town 36 [email protected] Men’s fashion extras Production Manager Scott Brothwell hot property 46 Deputy Production Manager Catch up on what’s new in the world of licensing home comforts 39 Sarah Barnes Accessories for the home Senior Graphic Designer Vicky O’Connor competition 143 Graphic Designers Win Kimmidoll™ Junior products worth hubble bubble 52 Samantha Lock, Rebecca Clarke Stock up on spooky treats Web Development Manager £750 RRP Stuart Weatherley Production Assistant food glorious food 122 Charlotte Brown It’s time to embrace food and the seasons Subscriptions Tammy Watt, Matilda Bourne +44 (0)1376 514 000 retailer interview 133 It’s Your’s gift shop in Brampton KD Media Publishing Ltd Pantile House, Newlands Drive Witham, Essex CM8 2AP UK up & coming 146 www.giftfocus.com Bag specialist Williams British Handmade Cover courtesy of: Yankee Candle Europe® Gift Focus is solely owned, published and special feature designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information festive cheer 19 46 in this magazine was correct at the time of going Christmas products – part one to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor focus on... can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. company profi le 49 54 The views expressed do not necessarily refl ect New children’s gift brand, Mousehouse Gifts those of the publisher. Gift Focus is published six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques the ga 120 should be made out to KD Media Publishing All the latest from The Giftware Association Limited and sent to Gift Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP UK. insurance 124 Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated Brokers TH March answer your with and supporters of: insurance-related questions Average Net Circulation: 7,196 q&a 127 (01/07/11 to 30/06/12) Our experts tackle all of your retail

MEDIA SUPPORTER related queries

ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN retail technology 130 shows Mobile websites and mCommerce tendence 54 International goods fair anti copying in design 136 Dids MacDonald, CEO of ACID, discusses home & gift 59 orphan rights Heading to Harrogate

giftfocus 3

Hop & Peck Stocking up

It’s that time of year again, when the gift world descends upon Harrogate for Home & Gift: the buying event of the season. Taking place between 14th - 17th July, the exhibition is a comprehensive round-up of design-led and everyday gifts, homeware, jewellery, fashion accessories, greetings cards and stationery. Turn to P59 for our comprehensive preview of the show. There are some spooky goings on in this issue on P52, where we bring you a selection of treats to stock for the Halloween season. Speaking of seasons, now’s the time to start ordering your Christmas stock; fl ick to P19 for part one of our special festive feature. On P36 we touch on men’s accessories, a growing sector as more men opt for fi nishing touches. We cover everything from tablet covers and wallets to jewellery and walking sticks. Despite the advances in digital technology, many people still prefer to print out photographs and frame them or create albums which they can look back at in years to come. We bring you a selection of photo frames and albums on P31. Putting the fi nishing touches to a room can completely change the look and feel of a space. Stocking a line of home accessories can open up a new source of revenue for your shop. Turn to P39 for some fresh inspiration. We catch up with Hop & Peck this issue, winners of the Gift Focus Best Gift Award at the British Craft Trade Fair in April. The company designs a beautiful selection of home accessories, quirky toys and charming gifts, all lovingly made by hand from traditional oak. Be sure to check them out. You can now follow Gift Focus on Pinterest, so please take a look at our page and follow us for updates.

See you in Harrogate! Lyndsey

Lyndsey Hubbard Editor VISIT US ON Facebook www.facebook.com/giftfocus Twitter @gift_focus Pinterest www.pinterest.com/giftfocus

giftfocus 5 industry news Catch up on all the latest in our news round up

Life Canvas scoops top awards at The Stationery Show Life Canvas, the new stationery imprint of Paragon Books, was the biggest winner in this year’s Stationery Awards, held at the Stationery Show in April, taking three of the seven awards. Life Canvas won the Notebooks and Paper Products category with its range of colour notebooks, as well as the Children’s Stationery category with the Mini Tins range. It also won the special Judges Award in recognition of the level of innovation it has brought to the stationery category since its launch last year. Here is a low down of all the worthy winners:

Notebooks & Paper Products Winner: Life Canvas – Colour notebooks Commended: Dodo Pad – Birthday Calendar The Honesty Shop tours London Dodo Pad – Blank Notebook The Honesty Shop, the brain-child of David Waterhouse, has been parking up in London and attracting a great deal Premium Writing Instruments of interest from both consumers and key industry fi gures Winner: Troika/Lime Internet – Pimp My Pen like Mary Portas. Commended: Sheaffer/Stone Marketing – Taranis The red double decker bus, named Trusty, is kitted out Caran d’Ache/Jakar International – Les Crayons De La Maison as a gift shop on the lower level, and consumers simply pop their money in an envelope when purchasing gifts Everyday Writing Instruments and post it through a red letter box inside. There’s a Winner: Stabilo International – Pointball conductor on the bus who has an offi ce on the top fl oor, Commended: Uni Promark/Mitsubishi – Highlighter and is on hand in case people have any questions and Faber-Castell/Stone Marketing – Grip Sparkle Pencils need change. Trusty was parked up at St Katharine’s Dock over the Children’s Stationery winter months, and is now residing at Merton Abbey Mills Winner: Life Canvas – Mini Tins in West London. David is hoping to get permission to Commended: Noodoll – Happy Travellers Pack take Trusty to Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square. Mustard – Eraser Heads All products are made in the UK and retail at under £20. Gifts include a mixture of everything from hand-made Home Offi ce items such as tea cosies, hats and greetings cards, to Winner: Kokoyu/Stone Marketing – Harinacs staple-free stapler ranges from the likes of Victoria Eggs, Garden Trading Co, Commended: Siconi/David Butcher Associates – Sticky Pads Inch Blue and Apples to Pears. Smart Wall Paint – Wallpaint For every purchase made on the Honesty Shop’s website, consumers can choose a charity to which 10 Diaries & Calendars per cent of the sale will be donated. For those products Winner: Daycraft/Trinity Xtras – Signature Chromatic 2014 Diary purchased on the bus itself, 10 per cent of profi ts are Commended: Dodo Pad – Planner donated to Compassion in World Farming. Leuchtturm1917 – 5-Year Memory Book To fi nd out more and discuss how to get products stocked on the bus or online, visit the website Special Judges Award www.thehonestyshop.com Winner: Life Canvas/Parragon Books

6 giftfocus news & events

Best Kept Secrets reveals results of scent survey Best Kept Secrets has commissioned its first ever Candle Scent Survey, to find out which scents are the nation’s favourites and which qualities in a scented candle matter most. The research was conducted independently via email in January and February 2013, with 782 respondents to the online research. The headline findings suggested the following:

• Watermelon is the most popular scent for a candle (16 per cent rated this in their top three candle fragrances). • The Smoothie range of Scented Candle Tins offers the best overall scent (23 per cent rated this as their top range of scented candle). Boxer Gifts introduces • Scent fragrance and candle burn were rated equally as the most important feature in a SHWINGS for shoes scented candle tin. Boxer Gifts introduces the freshest and latest • Candles are now rated second out of 10 of gift purchases when ranked in order must-have fashion accessory for kids and teens of preference, with only cosmetics rated as a more popular gift for under £15, and this season – SHWINGS! candles rating higher than other product categories including alcoholic beverages and Already a huge success in the US and Europe, clothing accessories. SHWING are ‘wings for your shoes’ that tie to your shoes. When old trainers start to lose their Purchases from stores as opposed to online was one of the surprising preferences, and lustre, SHWINGS can bring them back to life. despite strong growth in online sales, customers still like to touch and feel an item like a They’re available in bright neon and foil colours. candle when making a purchase. Boxer Gifts is the sole distributor for the UK Full survey results are available on request, and a report on the market preferences will and Ireland. be available online in March 2013. Visit www.boxergifts.com or T: +44 (0)113 T: +44 (0)1670 512 222 or visit www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk for more information. 3955 595 for more information.

New look website for Otter House Otter House has recently activated its online ordering service to combine with its new-look website. If you’re an existing customer, this new service allows you to see the company’s entire catalogue of giftware and greetings cards, order the stock you need and sign up to its regular email newsletters so you can keep ahead of the game with new product releases and customer offers. If you’re new to Otter House, just contact the team online, register as a new customer and you’ll be sent your log in details so you can get started. Visit www.otterhouse.co.uk to see its collections and sign up. As an introductory bonus, all orders on the company’s website over £250 will receive a 10 per cent discount.

7 industry news

Appointments Enesco has appointed Paul Rowbotham as UK Sales Director. Paul comes from the housewares industry where he was responsible for UK sales. Paul brings with him broad and varied experience within related industries, and from businesses that hold many similarities to Enesco. He will be responsible for the company’s UK sales strategy and business development.

Cleere Scamell has been appointed as Show Director for the Home & Gift show in Harrogate. This follows the upcoming departure of Joanna Bush, who is leaving after 14 years to relocate with her family to Singapore. Cleere’s career in exhibitions spans over 20 years, having worked previously at DMG in both sales and as a Show Director. More recently he has been providing high-level event management services on Home & Gift for the last eight years.

After more than 40 years in the business, Tony Saunders, Managing Director of LSA International, has announced his planned retirement this summer. The board of directors is pleased to announce that Richard Smedley, Sales & Marketing Manager at LSA International since 2011, has been appointed as Managing Director, effective from 7th May, 2013.

Half Moon Bay is pleased to announce the appointments of Jackie Yeomans as the Area Sales Manager for the Midlands territory and Julia Bottoms as the Area Sales Manager for the south east. Both Jackie and Julia bring a wealth of experience and will be working with independent customers in these areas.

i2i Events Group has appointed Matthew Mein as Event Manager of Glee, the leading garden event for retailers. Matthew has worked on Glee for more than seven years, and has been involved in every sector of the show. He is highly experienced in events and will be instrumental in the continued development of Glee, leading the show’s sales Berisfords launches Essentials team as well as enhancing its added value features and collection brochure educational content. Berisfords has announced the launch of its new Essentials ribbon and trim collections. All manufactured in the UK, the range is extremely versatile and cleverly selected to Full steam ahead for Enesco’s enable you to mix and match materials for a wide variety new Lillput Lane line of decorative applications. 2013 sees a new line being launched from The comprehensive 58-page brochure contains more Lilliput Lane – a railway line! The Lilliput Lane than 40 designs, offering plenty of scope to enable you Full Steam Ahead collection is a series of to create truly individual combinations of plain, printed buildings designed specifically with the railway and woven fabrics for a variety of personalising and enthusiast in mind. embellishing applications. The collection comprises a country church, Berisfords also boasts an extensive range of other trims post office, small industrial units, brick terrace, including roses, bows, decorative shapes, ribbons wraps and country school, shop terrace, comprehensive micro beading strings. Along with the ribbons, these can be school, cinema and, of course, a railway terrace. Consumers can opt for either used for jewellery making, crafting and sewing projects, as pre-painted or paint-your-own versions. well as for gifts, floristry and packaging. Each model is hand-sculpted and entirely hand-crafted in the company’s studios in the To find out more, T: +44 (0)1260 274 011 or visit the Scottish Borders. website www.berisfords-ribbons.co.uk To find out more T: +44 (0)1228 404 022 or visit www.enesco.co.uk

8 giftfocus on with the show Trade show updates from home and abroad

diary dates

Home & Gift when 14th - 17th July, 2013 where Harrogate website www.homeandgift.co.uk

California Gift Show when 19th - 22nd July, 2013 where Los Angeles website www.californiagiftshow.com

Formex when 15th - 18th August, 2013 where Stockholm website www.fomex.se Most successful London Stationery Show yet The third and biggest London Stationery Show took place in April, with a galaxy of brands from NY NOW more than 20 countries on 109 stands (a 30 per cent increase on last year). when 17th - 21st August, 2013 The show took place alongside National Stationery Week, which was a major sales where New York opportunity for retailers, designed to encourage more people to put pen to paper and carry website www.nynow.com on the tradition of buying stationery. There was a special Royal Mail golden post box at the entrance of the show for visitors to Tendence post their letters, and branded National Stationery Week taxis were doing the rounds in the when 24th - 27th August, 2013 city, taking the Get Britain Writing message to Londoners. where Frankfurt Over half of this year’s exhibitors were showing for the first time, including Parker, Santoro, website www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com Lamy, Ryland Peters & Small, Letts Filofax, Piccadilly and Peter Pauper Press. More than 95 per cent of exhibitors were showing new products. “This was the biggest and buzziest show by far, and attracted the UK’s leading stationery buyers and retailers, big and small, from every sector,” said Organiser, Chris Leonard-Morgan. “Visitors included John Lewis, Sainsburys, Ryman, Paperchase, WH Smith, Bentalls, Accessorize, , Tesco, Urban Outfitters, Staples, Waterstones Websters, The Pen Shop, Hamleys, and The National Trust.” The Sheaffer team was proud to be celebrating 100 years of business at the show. The luxury writing instrument manufacturer was also a partner for National Stationery Week. The London Stationery Show will be moving to the bigger Main Hall at the Business Design Centre next year, to meet the growing demand for exhibitor space. Next year’s show is set to take place between 1st - 2nd April during National Stationery Week. Keep up to date with news by visiting www.stationeryshow.co.uk

Calling all garden centres… Glee is back in town Taking place between 15th - 17th September, 2013, Glee is a great location for sourcing new and innovative products from more than 500 leading suppliers in the garden industry. Show features include the Trend Tunnel, Shop Window, Glee guided tours, Knowledge Hub and Innovators Zone. The Home, Gift & Clothing section showcases all the latest trends and products to help you diversify your retail offering and add to your customers’ experience. Items in this area will include clothing and footwear, homeware, seasonal decorations and stationery, as well as greetings cards. Visit www.gleebirmingham.com for full details.

10 giftfocus news & events

Get ready for Macef The 95th Macef returns to Fieramilano between 12th - 15th September, 2013 in Milan. New for this year are the dates – one week later than previous years, to give it better positioning in the panorama of European fairs. The show will be divided into four sections: Home Décor, Table & Kitchenware, Gifts and Bijoux. Design, research and innovation drive the Creazioni project, one of the most successful areas of the exhibition. Approximately 3,000 sq m of exhibition area devoted to design, craftsmanship and creativity, presenting original and innovative products. L’Opera Italiana, having reached its third edition, is confirmed as an important section dedicated to the excellence of Italian productions. This area of the show is an exclusive space where quality craftsmanship is put on show together with high level Italian products, relating the BCTF organisers report strong attendance value, research, work design and Italian Attendance and sales at this year’s British Craft Trade Fair reflected the well-publicised opinion life style in all its facets: not only products, that ‘made in Britain’ is enjoying a well deserved resurgence of popularity in the high street. The but atmospheres and the art of living the fair offers some of the most trend setting designs and products available in today’s market place. Italian way, exclusive values which are not Margeret Bunn, Organiser and Mentor of the fair, said: “The British Craft Trade Fair has only applicable anywhere else. come onto the radar for many high street buyers recently, due to the current popularity of Next to L’Opera Italiana is Homegarden, all things British, and over the last few years we have seen this trend reflected in our growing organised by the VG Crea Studio, a attendance figures. reserved space for a selection of furnishings, “There has always been a place for British products, and we are now enjoying a surge in interest linens and design for the great outdoors. from buyers who are responding to demands for high quality hand-made gifts and homeware.” The Negozio Incontro area will reveal Buyers who attended BCTF came from a large cross-section of retailers, including independent the secrets of making stores more appealing retailers, heritage shops, museums and more recently from lifestyle boutiques looking for high and original. This part of the show is located quality fashion accessories and homeware. inside the Table & Kitchen sector. BCTF has enjoyed an increase in buyer attendance year on year, and with 4,700 visiting this year, The Opere D’Arti is a section entirely the increase continues. dedicated to art galleries and artists, The next BCTF take place between 6th - 8th April, 2014. Visit www.bctf.co.uk to find out more. while Stores of Sustainability focuses on environmental sustainability. Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn on the horizon For more information about the show, nd rd Pencil the 22 - 23 September, 2013 into your diary for Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn. visit www.macef.it Springboard Events, the show organiser, introduced Launch Gallery to the autumn show in 2012, with 10 brand new companies. This area showcases the best design-led companies that have been trading for approximately a year in one central location. Companies are vetted and chosen by a committee for their original ideas, commercial appeal and design. Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn was re-launched in 2009, and has trebled in size since then. The 2013 show will take place over two days and is the final opportunity for retailers in Scotland to stock up before the busy Christmas period. Visit www.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk for more details.

giftfocus 11 on with the show

Autumn Fair is on its way Taking place between 1st - 4th September, 2013 A new vision for Brand onat the NEC in Birmingham, with Autumn Fair provides Licensing the Europe 2013 show aTrade vast mix showof exhibitors updates across 11 from sectors home for andBrand abroad Licensing Europe takes place th th inspirational buying. between 15 - 17 October, 2013 at Autumn Fair is a great location to plan your Olympia London, and will see some spring buying, and its seminars will help you keep innovative changes in order to reflect the up to date with the latest trends and design evolving licensing industry. th philosophies. There will be 500,000 products from Now in its 15 year, this year’s show Looking ahead 78 countries, with 60,000 new product launches is set to be the busiest yet, with 200 and more than 400 new suppliers. exhibitors already signed up. Olympia’s Autumn Fair Show features will include talking point Grand Hall will host some of the when 1st - 4th September, 2013 seminars, new product area, fashion catwalk, Cook biggest names in international character where Birmingham Live!, Trend Bar, craft seminar theatre and Brands and entertainment licensing, including website www.autumnfair.com of China. Aardman Rights, Disney Consumer Visit www.autumnfair.com for full details of this Products, DreamWorks Animation, International Jewellery major buying event. Hasbro Brand Licensing & Publishing, London ITV STUDIOS Global Entertainment, when 1st - 4th September, 2013 Mattel Brands Consumer Products, Mind where London Candy, Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer website www.jewellerylondon.com Products, SEGA Corporation, Walker Books and Warner Bros. Consumer Macef Products, as well as the principal agencies when 12th - 15th September, 2013 in the European licensing industry. where Milan BLE 2013’s new Brands area, located website www.macef.it in the newly renovated Upper West Hall, will feature exhibitors including Adidas Maison & Objet Italy S.p.A., Alchemy Licensing, Battersea when 6th - 10th September, 2013 Dogs and Cats Home, Beanstalk, Chupa where Paris Chups, Dorna Sports S. L, NBA Europe, website www.maison-objet.com Performance Brands and Route 66 Licensing. New exhibitors Discovery Scotland’s Trade Fair Enterprises International and WWF UK Autumn will make their debut in this area. when 22nd - 23rd September, 2013 Additional features for 2013 will include where Glasgow a new Brands Bar, new Brand Experience website www.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk Theatre, new Brand and Art & Design installations, an improved Art & Design Mega Show Part 1 2013 café, The Licensing Academy and The when 20th - 23rd October, 2013 Screening Suite. where Hong Kong To find out more, visit the website website www.mega-show.com www.brandlicensing.eu Mega Show Part 2 2013 when 27th - 29th October, 2013 where Hong Kong website www.mega-show.com

(All dates are subject to change. Contact organisers for more information before making arrangements)

For further in-depth show previews and reports, turn to: P54 Tendence P59 Home & Gift

12 giftfocus

Check out some new and exciting products in the current market brand spanking new Lanka Kade

Product: Natural farmer’s fi eld set Contact: T: +44 (0)1858 463 850 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP available on request Specifi cation: This 15-piece set is made from rubber wood and contains six animals, four hedges, a farm hand, gate, tree, trough and a tractor. Animals and hedges are all 25mm in thickness but vary in size. Retailer benefi ts: This beautifully hand-crafted fair trade product is exclusive to Lanka Kade, designed in the UK and made in Sri Lanka. All Lanka Kade runner wood is approved by the Sri Lankan forestry department and sourced from exhausted plantations, which are then replanted. Lanka Kade is a member of the British Association for Fair Trade Shops (BAFTS) and recognised as a fair trade importer.

Jarapa

Product: Tube vases Contact: T: +44 (0)845 519 1982 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £19.95 Specifi cation: Tube vases available in four colours and three sizes. A new range of square vases will be launched at Autumn Fair in September to complement the tube vases and to give even more selection. Retailer benefi ts: 100 per cent recycled glassware made in Spain, so limited transporting. Can all be recycled. Flexible ordering and split cases on fi rst orders. Other information: Visit www.jarapa.co.uk for more products and information.

CarrieMe

Product: Fusion collection by Darren MacPherson Contact: T: +44 (0)20 7912 0108 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP from £24.95 Specifi cation: Limited edition fi nders for mobiles/keys and bag hooks, each a one-of-a-kind hand-painted masterpiece by artist Darren MacPherson in his London studio. Available in heart and round shapes in several colours. Retailer benefi ts: Affordable, beautiful, useful, individual gifts that are made in the UK and attractively packaged with supporting POS. An artist biography and a smart signed box is included with each product. Other information: Visit CarrieMe at Home & Gift, Harrogate, stand DP3-24 for small minimum orders. Rose & Co

Product: Patisserie de Bain scented sachets Contact: T: +44 (0)1827 280 080 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £2.50 Specifi cation: Ideal for car, home and linen, hang where desired or place in drawers for a gentle release of fragrance every day. Retailer benefi ts: Part of a vast range of Patisserie de Bain products. Other information: Available in the four signature Patisserie de Bain fragrances, there’s a scent for every mood: Sugared Violet, Raspberries & Roses, Lemon Bon Bon and Strawberry Cupcake.

14 giftfocus new products

Deck The Halls

Product: Wit With Wisdom Contact: T: +44 (0)1494 814 062 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £3.75 for heart-shaped and £5.95 for the wooden signs. Specifi cation: A new range of wooden signs for the homes. Retailer benefi ts: Witty, smarter signs hand-made in England using Farrow and Ball paint colours. Bespoke production available with a minimum of only six pieces. Other information: Visit www.deck-the-halls.co.uk for more products or information.

La Cafetiere

Product: Monaco Cafetiere in Retro Blue (pictured) and Pistachio Contact: T: +44 (0)1352 717 555 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £21.95 Specifi cation: This eye-catching eight-cup (1,000ml) cafetiere features an on-trend geometric silhouette, high quality and heat-resistant glass beaker and a glossy enamel effect frame, not to mention the classic La Cafetiere stainless steel plunger and fi lter. Retailer benefi ts: Two limited edition seasonal shades of the new Monaco for autumn/winter 2013. Other information: Visit www.lacafetiere.com

Rosanna Rossi

Product: Spotlight Contact: T: +44 (0)7900 698 522 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £2.75 Specifi cation: Each card measures 150mm x 150mm. Retailer benefi ts: The collection comprises 12 birthday titles. The company plans to extend into occasional titles. Other information: A playful yet sophisticated collection of 12 birthday cards, incorporating pretty illustration with colourful foils and emboss detail. Individually cello-wrapped and presented with a metallic silver envelope. Qatch

 Product: Fante the Elephant Contact: T: +44 (0)20 8886 6326 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £25 Specifi cation: Fante is the best pet friend! A fantastic companion that will keep children entertained wherever they go. Fante is great for a cuddle or a nap whilst travelling or at any other time. Retailer benefi ts: The back body is made of a very soft mixture bamboo and organic cotton velour. Fante is wearing a colourful knitted jumper made of 100 per cent cotton with colourful and textured appliqué shapes to stimulate babies and help develop their learning skills. Other information: A great collectable item.

giftfocus 15 brand spanking new

Goodlookers

Product: Trendy Art Deco style glasses cases Contact: T: +44 (0)1634 713 900 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £9.99 Specification: A new addition to Goodlookers’ best-selling collection of glasses cases, which will be launched alongside a multitude of eye-catching reading glasses, in designs that are perfect for the season ahead. Retailer benefits: A very functional product in a distinctive and funky design, which is certain to achieve high sales in the lead up to Christmas. Other information: For more information, visit www.goodlookers.co.uk

Juben

Product name: Tote Bag Contact: T: +44 (0)1455 293 100 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £199.99 Specification: A new innovative signature design handbag made in the UK, comprising leather disks and aluminium rings. Juben has registration of design granted by the IPO, allowing the company exclusive rights to the look and appearance of its products. Retailer benefits: Retailer packs available including contemporary display and area exclusivity. Small minimum orders, supplied with luxury gift boxes. Other information: Visit www.juben.co.uk for more products and information.

Europium

Product name: Aura Aroma Diffuser Contact: T: +44 (0)161 257 3524 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £64.99 Specification: The Aura is an innovative new ceramic aroma diffuser that mirrors nature and channels minimalism in its design. Simply lift the cover and add your favourite fragrance or essential oil with tap water to instantly create the perfect ambience. Retailer benefits: Attractively packaged, one-of-a-kind, multi-purpose air-purifying aroma diffuser in an on-trend, hand-crafted ceramic finish. Other information: Visit www.madebyzen.com for more information.

The Balagan Group

Product name: One Wish Cupcake necklace Contact: T: +44 (0)845 260 0925 or E: [email protected] Price: RRP £29 Specification: Sterling silver necklace presented on a cute gift card. Retailer benefits: This collection incorporates sentiment and jewellery beautifully with some great price points. A full-colour catalogue is now available. Other information: Visit www.balagan.co.uk or www.balaganonline.com

16 giftfocus

THE MILFORDCOLLECTION

Unit 18 Dyffryn Industrial Estate Newtown, Powys, SY16 3BD, Wales T: 01686 629919 F: 01686 623918 Harrogate E: [email protected] Home and Gift E: [email protected] Visit us at Stand B61 www.themilfordcollection.co.uk www.milfordcollection.com christmas - part one christmas - part xxxxx xxx festive cheer Stock up for the most profi table time of the year

As the biggest buying event of the year approaches, it’s time to start ordering stock in preparation. Create a magical display in your windows and in store this yuletide.

A Baby Clothes Bouquet from The Flower Stork combines the beauty of fl owers with essential items of infant clothes to bring you a new baby gift that is as pretty as it is practical. Well known for its traditional new baby gift range in pale pinks, baby blues and crisp whites, the company’s best-selling bouquets come with a dash of festive cheer for the Christmas season. The Christmas Baby Clothes Bouquets contain snow-white baby clothes for children aged 3-6 months, fi nished off with holly and berries. T: +44 (0)1495 303 030 www.thefl owerstork.com

Puckator’s range of solar Flip Flaps has been a sales phenomenon. With the summer designs of Sea Gull, Monkey, Crab and Sunfl ower fl ying off the shelves, Puckator has now introduced some Christmas characters to the range. These include a dancing snowman, penguin and Father Christmas, with wholesale prices starting at just 75p. Stock will be arriving in the company’s warehouse in August, so pre-order with your agent or online now. T: +44 (0)800 011 6969 www.puckator.co.uk

The Pintail Candles Christmas Gold range is back by popular demand for Christmas 2013. These gold candle tins feature a contemporary design in striking colours and 12 festive Burning a candle at Christmas time can evoke many emotions and a sense fragrances such as Frankincense & Myrrh, Mistletoe & Wine and of nostalgia. Heaven Scent Incense has introduced some new Christmas Warm Gingerbread. With an RRP of under £5, they make the scents to its already best-selling lines, including Orange, Clove and Cinnamon, perfect stocking fi ller. The Dotty Hearts range has been updated Mulled Pear and Spices, and Spiced Apple. The new fragrances are Gold, for autumn/winter, seeing the return of best-selling Christmas Frankincense and Myrrh, which is a gentle perfume smell, Hazelnut and fragrances such as Christmas Spice, Cinnamon & Orange and Ginger and Orange and Ginger, which have a sweeter scent. Mulled Wine. T: +44 (0)1225 868 788 T: +44 (0)1539 559 007 www.heavenscent.co.uk www.pintailcandles.com

giftfocus 19 festive cheer

Your Name in Lights is a range of personalised LED Christmas baubles, new to the UK for Christmas 2013. Gaeltag Keltika will be taking orders for spinners featuring baubles with the UK’s top 20 girls’ and top 20 boys’ names, plus generic Christmas titles. Additional blank baubles are also part of the package, with accompanying glitter lettering sheets to enable customisation. The baubles are priced at £4.99 RRP to ensure great secret Santa and pocket money sales. T: +44 (0)20 8998 1781 www.lolitadesigns.co.uk

Brand new this season from Retreat Home is this range of kitchen textiles, including a double oven glove, tea cosy and apron. The bright, bold and beautiful red heart and Christmas pudding print on a cream background is fun and festive, in good quality cotton with the high standards of workmanship you expect from Retreat Home. T: +44 (0)870 803 3428 www.retreat-home.com

Rose & Co has a range of sweetly scented cherry and berry bath melts, which are almost good enough to eat! The beautifully From large statement pillars to roll-your-own pure beeswax candles, you’ll be fragrant Cherry Bakewell, Country Fruits and Strawberry able to offer your customers, at all price points, the opportunity to share the Cupcake bath melts are brought together to create this spirit of Christmas in a special way with friends and family. More people are now adorable gift set, ideal to treat a loved one or even oneself. seeking out the beauty and benefits of pure beeswax candles in a bid to avoid Each bath melt is made of pure shea, cocoa butters and sweet potentially harmful chemicals and the blackening smoke and soot of paraffin almond oil, leaving skin delicately fragranced and soft when candles. Wood-Knit-Bee specialises in pure beeswax and offers a wide range added to a warm bath. Each bath melt is perfectly presented of candles, gift items and even candle-making supplies for people keen to create with a hand-made berry cluster that decorates each cake. their own Christmas candles as gifts or for their own enjoyment. T: +44 (0)1827 280 080 T: +44 (0)1892 549 966 www.graftons.co.uk www.wood-knit-bee.com

20 giftfocus festive cheer

The Gorgeous Christmas range from Blue Eyed Sun is based on Hot Off The Press’s glass nail files are pretty, practical and everlasting. original hand-stitched artworks by Jo Corner, which are four-colour They’re available in a variety of colours and sizes, with either hard cases printed and embossed. Hand-finished with jewels, the range includes or bright velvet sleeves, many embellished with Swarovski crystals. New 30 Christmas designs to complement more than 54 everyday cards. for this year is a brand of Sparkly Stylus Pens and Mini Stylus’, perfect for The Funky Christmas range is based on original watercolours by Jo, iPhones, iPads, tablets and smart phones. All of the company’s products and then four-colour printed on acetate, which is hand-glittered onto retail between £6 and £15, perfect price points for Christmas gifts. Each the cards. This range is also hand-finished with jewels and includes 44 product is perfectly packaged and presented with neat POS displays to Christmas designs. suit all your retailing needs. T: +44 (0)1273 823 003 T: +44 (0)7956 679 613 www.blueeyedsun.co.uk www.hotp.co.uk

The Scottish Fine Soaps Company has been making indulgent bathing products from its base in central Scotland for more than 35 years. This year’s Christmas offering includes two mini collections in Spiced Apple and Gingerbread fragrances, as well as the return of its Festive Soap in a Tin range. The Spiced Apple and Gingerbread collections include some of the company’s best-selling gift items from existing collections such as its luxurious essentials drum, 3 x 100g boxed soap set and its little bear soaps – ideal stocking fillers. T: +44 (0)1324 573 402 www.scottishfinesoaps.com

Yankee Candle is offering four brand new Christmas home fragrances, and introduces a new addition to the Christmas colour scheme in soft pink. Created with whimsical and charming labels featuring sugary pink icing cookies, colourful marshmallows and Christmas ginger biscuits, the collection will tempt consumers as they look for festive fragrances to fill their homes. T: +44 (0)117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk

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Daisy Roots has got Christmas all wrapped up with its gorgeous gift sets. Celebrate baby’s first Christmas with the new Tabbeez comforter. Made from snuggly cream fleece, with Baby’s First Christmas embroidered in red thread, the Tabbeez is presented in an elegant gift box. There are also delicious Christmas pudding shoes and an organic cotton top with an embroidered Christmas pudding motif. T: +44 (0)1604 880 066 www.daisy-roots.com

Designed and hand-made in the UK, Deck-the-Halls is showcasing its beautiful wooden tree decorations. New for this year is the pure white Sparkle range using vintage glass glitter trimmed with antique velvet. The decorations are available in pretty woodland shapes, including a stag, hedgehog and squirrel, as well as many other classic Nordic designs. The company’s Christmas card hanger range includes a quirky Rudolph shape. T: +44 (0)1494 814 062 www.deck-the-halls.co.uk

Over the last few years, Signature Gifts has focused on creating a range of personalised children’s books with original illustrations and innovative story lines. Its 24 Sleeps ‘Til Christmas advent activity book was Gift of the Joe Davies will launch its biggest ever collection of Christmas gifts to date at Home Year finalist in February, and pre-orders for this coming & Gift in July. This reflects the growing importance of this market to its independent Christmas have already exceeded all expectations. Its retail customers. The company has seen strong sales growth of Christmas products collection of other children’s seasonal books, such as year on year, particularly in products priced up to and below the all-important £9.99 Letter to Santa, 12 Days of Christmas and Traditional price point. Pretty hand-made glass Christmas trees proved a huge hit last year, Nursery Rhymes, are being listed by leading retailers. and many new models will be at Harrogate, together with traditional Santas and T: +44 (0)1582 464 809 snowmen in all shapes and sizes. www.signature-gifts.co.uk T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 www.joedavies.co.uk

24 giftfocus

Great silver, fashion and stainless steel jewellery at affordable prices!!

Contact us now on 01225 719 583 or view our website. Agents required www.smilejewellery.co.uk hop & peck

flying the flag We get to know Hop & Peck, winners of the Gift Focus Best Gift Award at this year’s British Craft Trade Fair

Hop & Peck offers a delightful collection of a shared passion when they met and set to home accessories, quirky toys and charming creating a new brand and business which gifts, all lovingly made by hand, combining centred around premium design but also, and traditional oak with contemporary design. The most importantly, family. oak is sourced from sustainable forests, finished “We both shared a love for good clever with Danish oil and where painted, is done so design and also wanted to build a design-led with child-friendly water-based paints. business that allowed us to balance work Founded by designers, Elaine and Stephen in around bringing up our young families,” November 2010, their passion to design and explains Elaine. “With young toddlers in tow, craft traditionally-inspired wooden products we had our first inspiration. We wanted to give led them to create a range that is individual, our children an extra dimension to growing creative and contemporary. The pair began up, something a little bit different, shying away with a selection of robust children’s toys, and from the predictable plastic toy genre.” these first products were road tested by the The duo has designed their range around duo’s children – now their biggest critics – and all the things they love and enjoy – a relaxed this is where the foundations of the Hop & family lifestyle, good food, good wine and Peck brand originated. enjoying great company. “We love the idea of Elaine was previously the Creative Director living the good life; simple everyday pleasures, at Mamas & Papas, and for seven years growing your own vegetables, enjoying fresh shaped the company’s visual brand. Stephen daily eggs and entertaining with friends, hence was a furniture designer, running his own our homeware range is focused on cooking, commission-based premium design business. eating and stylish entertaining. They both gave up their careers to look after “We challenge each and every design to be their own young respective families, and found clever, functional and also aesthetic. We look

to create simplicity and elegance within each design but also give a product an added twist.” Hop & Peck’s best-selling product is its egg cup. “We’ve been inundated with orders and have had fantastic press coverage for our little egg cups, it’s been hard to keep up with the internet and social media, they’ve been everywhere! Retailers love them, we love

giftfocus 27 flying the flag

them… everyone loves them. However, saying that our new Treat boards are fast becoming a firm favourite too.” The company’s Treat boards scooped the Gift Focus Best Gift Award at this year’s British Craft Trade Fair in April. “The idea came from having two (now) five year olds with huge appetites! The Treat boards are fun, popular children’s iconic shapes that are easily recognisable, a fun way for any child to start a culinary adventure. We also advocate a healthy lifestyle for our kids and want to encourage children to start cooking (and eating) new foods. These are now a favourite in both our households, for chopping, grating, spreading and daily snacking,” says Elaine. As Hop & Peck is still only a relative infant in the world of business, it tries to target smaller retailers on a local scale. “We currently have more than 50 small and medium-sized retailers, and relish the opportunity to work with the industry’s finest stores,” explains Elaine. The company has recently taken on some new premises, and is looking to enlarge its production capacity to cater for the interest shown from abroad. Australia and Europe in particular have been knocking on the door for the latest information, so eventually Hop & Peck would love to go global. The pair see a number of emerging trends for this year. Out with the old and in with the old. In line with clothing trends and simplistic homewares, the duo think more white and clean design will never go out of fashion. “We will also be looking back at traditional nostalgic gifts and games that we grew up with, keeping Realistically, they try and work in advance of in line with the vintage label that’s often used the seasons and trade shows. Some festive today. We’re also thinking that geometric Christmas products and ideas are also on the shapes are going to be big, and we will be horizon in the coming months… g focusing on some sharp new pieces for the autumn season.” The company is always looking at ways For more information, visit to improve and change its existing products. www.hopandpeck.co.uk

28 giftfocus

photo frames & albums photo frames & albums say cheese!

Capturing those precious moments in life

Despite the advances in digital technology, many people still prefer to print out photographs and frame them or create albums of memories.

Retreat Home’s photo frames are a perennially popular wedding gift. The frames pictured are finished in nickel for a long-lasting shine that won’t tarnish. For that romantic touch, the frames are embossed with hearts, flowers or the word love. T: +44 (0)870 803 3428 www.retreat-home.com

Shared Earth sells frames in a variety of shapes and sizes, all hand-carved and made from a variety of materials – wood, soapstone, aluminium, recycled bicycle chains and most recently, colourful crayon stubs. The most popular piece of all is carved from a mixture of different woods and colours. Along with boxes, coasters, chess sets and so on, a great display can be made with Shared Earth’s wooden products. T: +44 (0)1904 670 321 www.shareearth.co.uk

All Personal Gifts provides a comprehensive range of fine silver-plated gifts – including photo frames – which can be engraved for that personal touch and come in quality presentation Creative Tops has a collection of beautiful giftware, including a range of boxes. The assortment of photo frames from the Mikasa Love Story collection, available in metal frames includes sizes to with an ivory and platinum finish. This picture frame features a delicate fit the following photo heart and ribbon swirl accent that is the ideal setting for a photo of measurements: 3.5in x that special someone. There are three frames in the range, available in 5in, 4in x 6in, 5in x 7in, the following sizes: 8in x 10in, 5in x 7in and double invitation frame. 6in x 8in and 8in x 10in. T: +44 (0)1536 207 710 T: +44 (0)800 030 2345 www.creative-tops.com www.allpersonalgifts.co.uk

giftfocus 31 say cheese!

Adding to the continued success of its frames and albums, Personalised Memento Co. will be launching a new range of different sizes and styles, making the perfect addition to any mantelpiece. The company has introduced a new Mr & Mrs album and matching wooden frames for those special images at 10in x 8in, 5in x 7in and 6in x 4in. Expertly engraved into the wood is a timeless Mr & Mrs design and any special personal message. T: +44 (0)1782 744 900 www.personalisedmemento.co.uk Namaste has a large range of photo frames in an array of materials, including large wooden designs and embroidered styles. All are made by skilled artisans on a fair trade basis. The wooden frames shown here are hand-made in Northern India by a family business that specialises in employing skilled wood carvers to make sustainable and eco-friendly crafts from mango wood. The wood comes from government-managed and regulated plantations. The sunflower frame is also from India.

T: +44 (0)1756 700 790 www.namaste-uk.com

Joe Davies boasts one of the largest collections of photo frames and albums in the UK, and adds more than 300 models each year to keep the selection fresh and up to date. Occasions and sentiment are two of the biggest categories, and the company has a huge selection covering all of life’s special events, including charming messages for friends and loved ones. There are frames and albums for every budget, all available in sensible quantities with free delivery nationwide. T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 www.joedavies.co.uk

32 giftfocus say cheese!

More Than Bags supplies a wide selection of photo albums, all created using lokta paper. This paper is made using the bark of a plant that grows high in the Himalayas, and is a sustainable resource. Each photo album has 24 thick lokta sheets that can be used double sided, and Music-themed gifts are amongst Clere Concepts’ best-selling lines at the can be written on moment. One of the items in the range is a keyboard photo frame with too. The fun and hand-painted detail, available in two sizes. The black and white design, contemporary although striking, doesn’t distract from the main purpose – to display a designs appeal to a wide company base and are sure to be that treasured photograph. The range is complemented by two clocks with something different that your customers are looking for. More Than the same design detail, making a strong themed combination gift when Bags is a BAFTS Fair Trade Importer. paired together. T: +44 (0)1248 717 147 T: +44 (0)1635 297 911 www.morethanbags.co.uk www.clere-concepts.co.uk

Gifts that can be personalised are always a hit. Black Ginger’s photo Kenro has launched its latest line of frames and albums for 2013, frame coasters are a huge success. The simple glass coaster can be along with a fresh catalogue. This boasts more than 30 new designs transformed into a perfect gift for friends and family over and over of stylish gift frames and albums designed especially for baby, as well again, costing £2.05 for a set of four and £1.40 for a set of two. The as a new assortment of contemporary wooden photo frames for new Mummy & Me and Daddy & Me are ideal to personalise for the modern home. mum and dad. T: +44 (0)1793 615 836 T: +44 (0)118 940 3731 www.kenro.co.uk www.blackginger.co.uk

34 giftfocus man about town Accessories for the modern man Kutuu’s range of pewter gifts and accessories has gone from strength to strength since its spring 2012 launch. One of the very fi rst designs from the range, and still a best-seller to date, is the ‘love you daddy’ keyring, which is now also available with dad, granddad and grandpa messages. With a recommended retail price of £10, the range of keyrings meets the perfect price point for many customers whilst not compromising on design or quality. T: +44 (0)1352 756 797 www.kutuuwholesale.co.uk

Shared Earth has been working with Asha Handicrafts, a fair trade organisation in Mumbai, for 20 years. A non-profi t initiative, Asha works tirelessly to spread the concepts and benefi ts of fair trading in India and Lesser & Pavey has a range of covers for Kindles, iPads and abroad. This recycled rubber wallet and set phones, with a black version for men. The men’s range is of three hand-block printed hankerchiefs are distinctive, executive and smart for the man about town. A great examples of its handicrafts. chrome clasp fastens each item securely, and the range includes T: +44 (0)1904 670 321 a key fob, wallet and iPad cover with detail for associated www.sharedearth.co.uk accessories such as a pen and pad. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225 www.leonardo.co.uk

An exciting new range has arrived at Personalised Memento Co, with the emphasis on quality personalised gifts sure to please the man who has everything. The range includes a selection of wallets and purses, housing cards, notes and loose change. With the ever The current line from Talbot Fashions includes increasing sales fi gures for smartphones and tablets, the company silver metal dragon pendants on a 16in cord in four also has a line of leather cases to protect those valuable gadgets. styles. This has been a constant best-seller for the The personalised cases are available for the iPad, iPhone 5, iPod company at a wholesale price of £1.20 each (ex Touch 5 and Samsung Galaxy S3. VAT). Etched stainless steel dog tag pendants on a T: +44 (0)1782 744 900 19in ball chain are also a good selling line and come www.personalisedmemento.co.uk in assorted designs of skull, cross and dragon, at the same wholesale price. Guitar pendants in red, black and white enamel on an 18in thong are also proving popular, with a wholesale price of £1.50. Pictured is a reconstituted stone skull and cocoa wood bead adjustable macramé bracelet sold in a mixed dozen pack of assorted tonal colours. These are fl ying off the shelves and have a wholesale price of 70p each (ex VAT). T: +44 (0)1273 776 415 www.talbotfashions.com

36 giftfocus men’s accessories

Joe Davies reports In times gone by, no gentleman was rapidly growing properly attired on formal occasions sales in its men’s without his cane. Happily, this elegant accessories. The fashion is experiencing a revival, with company now carries formal chrome and silver topped a large collection as walking sticks increasingly in demand part of its best-selling for weddings and race meetings. Equilibrium jewellery Charlotte Gillian, Managing Director brand, and reports that at walking stick specialist Classic the majority of the Canes, explains: “High profi le events jewellery customers such as the Goodwood Revival and now carry includes Royal Ascot have helped generate a selection of men’s interest in men’s formal canes as jewellery too. Leather bracelets are particular popular, as are fashion accessories.” Formal canes designer cuffl inks. Good presentation is extremely important for are now very popular for weddings, jewellery sales, and all the Equilibrium collection is attractively proms and other stylish events. packaged in branded boxes for effective display and giving. T: +44 (0)1460 75686 T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 www.classiccanes.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk Mala Leather’s luxury range of men’s accessories has increased in size with the addition of a wash bag and tablet cover. The leather has a buttery soft feel and is made to the very highest standard. The range also includes a wide variety of wallets with hidden additional credit card slots. All styles are available in black or chestnut brown and come packaged in a box. Opticaid UK is launching its latest range of men’s ready reading T: +44 (0)1827 67401 glasses by Remaldi in July. The range is ever expanding, with www.malaleather.com new additional styles added to the contemporary and classic ranges. New styles include Treviso, an Italian inspired frame in tortoise, and a more eye-catching black/lime design called Kent, a wayfarer style larger frame. Ohio is a semi-rimless classic style with metal arm detail. Also new for autumn/winter 2013 is the Whether dad is Remaldi range of neck cords. the cool or comfy T: +44 (0)113 239 1400 type, the Midhaven www.opticaid.net Tribal Steel range of leather and stainless CXD Designs has a new range of men’s wrap around hematite steel has a style for bracelets. There’s a variety of designs and four different sizes all. There are more to choose from, including single wraps, double wraps that go than 200 styles to around the wrist twice, choose from in triple wraps, and even leather and 50 styles ones that wrap around in stainless steel. fi ve times. Prices start as There’s a choice of low as £1.20. fi ve different sizes for men and as a perfect fi nishing touch, all lines come in T: +44 (0)1702 300 907 stylish branded pouches. Spend £200 and get a free point of sale. www.cxddesigns.co.uk T: +44 (0)1299 851 513 www.midhaven.co.uk

giftfocus 37 SIA Home Fashion Beautiful hand-made flowers

Showrooms are open throughout the year with Newby Hall being only 20 minutes away from the Harrogate Home and Gift Show.

For more details please call 01189 227800 20 Minutes Away! home accessories home comforts Putting the finishing touches to a room can completely change the look and feel of a space. Stocking a line of home accessories can open up a new source of revenue for your shop

From cushions and rugs to candles and table dressing, it’s all about the finer details when it comes to making a house feel like a home.

Lesser & Pavey offers the market something very different in the form of a lamp for the home or shop floor. Metal Flower Lamps come in more than 100 designs and vary in size, from smaller lamps that are sold in fours to large individual lamps. Each lamp is different and eye-catching, with a combination of silver metal work with black, red or purple colouring and lights. T: +44 (0)1322 279 225 www.leonardo.co.uk

What better way to brighten up a kitchen than by dressing a table with some beautiful place mats and coasters? This pretty pairing from Creative Tops features a range of uplifting phrases framed by a heart-shaped design. T: +44 (0)1536 207 710 www.creative-tops.com

Charlotte Macey and her small team hand-make charming items for the home, ranging from cushions and cosies to linen tea towels and embroidered aprons. Over the past year, Charlotte has been busy designing fabrics featuring her quirky embroidered illustrations, to sit alongside her range of embroidered homewares. Two new designs, Brown Chickens and Countryside – featuring cow parsley, leaves and bumblebees The best-selling WoodWick range – have been launched as part of from Xystos isn’t just about candles. Its Charlotte’s range of linen cushions and accessories line features 18 patterns, covered notebooks, and sit perfectly including this Glistening Glass shade and alongside her collections of homewares, plate. There are also melt burners and stationery and refined bone china votive and tea light holders. kitchen accessories. T: +44 (0)191 499 1570 T: +44 (0)7890 642 454 www.xystostrade.co.uk www.charlottemacey.co.uk

giftfocus 39 home comforts

Dora Designs has introduced several new items, which will be on show at Home & Gift. Along with many fresh inclusions to its existing ranges, the company has launched the Feline collection. There are also some great additions Best Kept Secrets is celebrating the successful to the all new Pedigree and British Bird launch of its new range of gift-boxed tea lights, collections for the autumn. Three Lites, after showing the collection at a T: +44 (0)1733 305 452 number of trade shows including Scotland’s www.doradesigns.co.uk Trade Fair, Top Drawer and Spring Fair. The product is a compact version of the hugely popular Super 7’s range, which launched this time last year, and recently won a highly commended accolade at Scotland’s Trade Fair. T: +44 (0)1670 512 222 www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

D & J Glassware has an enviable reputation for the quality, style and pricing of its collections. These tea light holders are part of a truly versatile range that can be enjoyed all around the home and garden. The designs are available in a choice of beautiful colours to suit all tastes, and each one is individually boxed, making it an ideal gift. T: +44 (0)1953 450 280 www.dandjglassware.co.uk

With a home-made, crafty feel, Retreat Home’s This year, SIA launched its Spring Shadow range of linen cushions for autumn/winter 2013 theme, a collection inspired by the strict is very much on-trend: in reds and natural, with elegance of the ’40s, with touches here and beautiful embroidery and appliqué. Choose there of muted pastels, which highlight the from slogans such as Love, Comfy and Cosy, or pink of the cherry blossom. The materials appliquéd hearts, feathers or the very popular play on contrast rather than opposition Mabel, a delightful little West Highland Terrier. – a large collection of vases combine Perfect for eye-catching merchandising and the iridescence of mercury glass with window displays, the range is made to the the delicateness of knitted ceramics. The highest standards, and backed as always by magnolia flowers and cherry blossoms are Retreat Home’s first-class customer care. between bud and bloom. T: +44 (0)870 803 3428 T: +44 (0)1189 227 808 www.retreat-home.com www.sia-homefashion.com

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[email protected] home comforts

The DRH Collection has been adding to its contemporary glassware brand, Anton Studio Designs, for several seasons now, and among the latest aspirational creations is the Stackable range. Each glass tumbler or bowl stacks, making it a great practical space-saver as well as a great talking point at the dinner table! The glassware range is available in a mix of four striking colours and as tumblers, hi-balls or bowls. T: +44 (0)20 7249 0710 www.thedrhcollection.com

J J Vaillant has added this natural finish, one-metre-high bottle display rack to its range. It’s hand-carved from solid acacia wood and is part of the company’s Once A Tree range of sustainable fairly traded products. Originally the company sold a six-bottle table top model, but due to its popularity, decided to introduce this larger one. It’s also available in white distressed shabby-chic and dark-walnut finishes. JJ Vaillant stocks more than 30 different wine bottle holders, from carved horses and frogs to aluminium-free and wall-mounted models. T: +44 (0)121 380 0720 www.jjvaillant.com

With so many decorative styles to choose from, Ashleigh & Burwood’s Fragrance Lamps make the ideal home accessory. Its latest additions are launching at Home & Gift, and include new mosaic designs in all sizes such as Little Rainbow and Harlequin. There are also two brand new fragrances for lamps under a new line called The Aromatics Collection. Xavier and Salvatore are the names of the new fragrances, which represent blended masculine notes using only high quality ingredients, and are inspired by fine fragrances. T: +44 (0)1932 267 060 www.ashleigh-burwood.co.uk New Overseas Traders’ natural doormats are made from the coir fibres found between the husk and the outer shell of a coconut. The Home Sweet Home design is new this season. The mats are produced in a modern factory in Kerala. This organisation takes excellent care of its employees. The doormats measure 45cm high x 75cm long with an RRP of £22.99. T: +44 (0)1672 851 166 www.newoverseastraders.co.uk

Pintail Candles specialises in the manufacture of high quality fragranced candles and reed diffusers. All products are hand-made in the UK by highly skilled crafts people, using only the finest quality ingredients. With more than 40 fragrances available across a selection of filled tin and glass candles, and highly perfumed reed diffusers, there is sure to be a product to suit every individual and interior setting. T: +44 (0)1539 559 007 www.pintailcandles.com

Wood-Knit-Bee makes the delight of pure beeswax candles available at all price points, from large statement pillars to fine dining candles, tea lights, party lights, and sought-after traditional Christmas tree candles. Grouped together, a selection of the pure beeswax products from Wood-Knit-Bee make an attractive and eye-catching retail display, enhanced even more by their sustainably-sourced oak candlesticks, hand-made in Sussex. T: +44 (0)1892 549 966 www.wood-knit-bee.com home comforts

There are plenty of exciting new items available in the extensive collection offering by Demdaco, available from Enesco.The Kelly Rae Roberts collection of artful fashion for homes includes new wall hangings and home accessories. The Lyricology range celebrates life’s captions and memorable moments, with new accessories including picture frames, pillows, frames, key chains and wall arts. The Dogs Rocks fun and funky graphics by Stephen Fowler now feature on whimsical and witty home décor and accessories. Holly Christine Moody’s Colorful Devotions range features a vibrant patchwork of pattern and colour, as well as new pieces of wall art and decorative accents such as hanging ornaments and a pretty star garland. T: +44 (0)1228 404 022 www.enesco.co.uk Gaeltag Keltika will be showing innovative new Swedish brand TindraTM at Home & Gift for the first time. The core products are simple but beautiful, and candle bags (fire retardant and biodegradable) in patented alphabet letters and numbers will be on show. TindraTM products make any occasion special and personal, with the letters available either individually or as Wordkits. The Wordkit messages cover Christmas, weddings, birthdays and anniversary tidings amongst others, and come in both large and small formats. T: +44 (0)20 8998 1781 www.lolitadesigns.co.uk

In early July, Mandarin Arts will be expanding its popular range of rice Apples to Pears’ charming spice and trinket chests are a colourful bowl sets, each comprising five bowls in different colours or designs, addition to any home. Made from sustainably-sourced mango wood, some with interesting textures on the outside. The new bowls join these units boast chunky ceramic drawers with cute ball knobs, an established range of oriental teapots, tea-sets, mugs with lids and cheery decoration and discreet metal safety clips to prevent the strainers, implements for tea ceremonies, tea caddies, sushi sets, sake drawers from falling out. These versatile chests store anything, from sets, tablemats and chopsticks. Visit the company’s website to view other spices and jewellery to stationery, and are available in a number of product ranges. variations including two, four, six, nine, 12 and 16-drawer designs. T: +44 (0)1873 812 255 T: +44 (0)1453 872 098 www.mandarinarts.co.uk www.applestopears.com

44 giftfocus hotCatch up with all propertythe latest from the world of licensing

Gibsons signs new chapter with Roald Dahl licensing deal Gibsons has announced a deal with DRi Licensing to launch a series of adult and children’s jigsaw puzzles based on the hugely popular Roald Dahl books. The puzzles will feature some of Dahl’s best-loved characters from stories such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The BFG. The puzzles will launch in 2014 to coincide with the 50th anniversary celebrations of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Alicia Davenport, Licensing Director at DRi, says: “We’re delighted that Gibsons has joined the Roald Dahl licensing programme at this very exciting time – puzzles, game play and family were at the heart of Roald Dahl’s life, so this is the perfect addition to our rapidly-expanding programme.” Like all of Gibsons’ jigsaws, the Roald Dahl puzzles will be made from 100 per cent recycled, high quality puzzle board and will join other classic British licenses from Gibsons, including Downton Abbey, Cadbury, Hornby and the RHS. Visit www.gibsonsgames.co.uk to view the company’s range.

UK licensing programme Dinosaur Train gains momentum grows as The across Europe Very Hungry The Jim Henson Company is continuing to expand Caterpillar the programme for Dinosaur Train, finalising a approaches its number of new deals throughout Europe. 45th anniversary In the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands, In 2014, The Very Hungry Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products – Caterpillar will be 45 years the brand’s agent in those territories – has signed old. Not only has the book up Kidztation (wooden toys), Koninklike Jumbo sold over 36 million copies (puzzles, giant playing cards and floor games), Redan but this centrepiece of Publishing (magazines) and Rail Events. The World of Eric Carle Selecta Vision, the firm’s agent in Spain, has brand has a global licensing confirmed a number of new agreements. These programme with over 120 licensees in toys, games, apparel, stationery, gift and more. include Panini Espana, Unice Toys, Play by Play Toys Managed in the UK by Rocket Licensing on behalf of global agent the Joester Loria and Novelties Europe and Saica Toys among others. Group, the range of licensed product, distribution and sales in the UK grew significantly In Italy, licensing agent Dall’ Angelo Pictures has in 2012 and is still growing. The most recent UK licensing deals, signed in the run finalised a deal with Nestle Italiana SPA for Easter up to Licensing Expo, include Ravensburger for games and puzzles, who join other eggs with surprises, mini Easter eggs and mini Rocket signings including Wild and Wolf, an award-winning designer, manufacturer and chocolate eggs. wholesaler of gifts, homeware and accessories; children and babywear manufacturer Existing Dinosaur Train licensees include Tomy Dennicci; and William Lamb Footwear with Wellington boots. Already at retail or (master toy) and Puffin (publishing). imminent are new cut-out cards from UK Greetings, bikes, trikes and skateboards from Visit the website Universal Cycles, bedding and blankets from Dreamtex, as well as the hugely popular www.henson.com developmental toy range from Rainbow Designs. To find out more, visit the website www.rocketlicensing.com

46 giftfocus hot property

Pedigree books up Annoying Orange for new annuals range Pedigree Books has signed a new deal that will see the launch of annuals featuring outrageous internet comedy, Annoying Orange. Fans of the show can now purchase a sticker and poster activity annual from Pedigree in a number of major retailers, with a larger Christmas annual launching from 1st August, 2013. The signing of Annoying Orange is part of Pedigree’s expansion into gaming and new media titles, which has seen other big digital Poeticgem beefs up nightwear with new brands such as Cut the Rope, Bovril range Angry Birds and Angry Birds Star Wars join its portfolio. A new range of t-shirts and nightwear featuring iconic beef The deal has been brokered by Rocket Licensing and will see Pedigree drink Bovril is set to grace UK shelves thanks to an agreement team up with a stronger roster of licensing partners, which already includes signed by apparel specialist, Poeticgem. Underground Toys (toys), Egmont UK (publishing), Pedigree Books (annuals), Bovril is a Great British brand through and through. Originally TV Mania (kids apparel), Poetic Gem (adult apparel), Morphsuits (Morphsuits) named Johnston’s Fluid Beef, this deeply dark and delicious drink and PMS (amusement toys). was given the altogether more catchy title of Bovril in 1886, and Visit www.pedigreebooks.com a legendary brand was created. The company will be using iconic imagery to produce a range of adult nightwear which will appeal to Britain’s millions of Bovril’s die-hard devotees. Portico to “A cup of Bovril is warm and welcoming, and an evening treat distribute My for many, so the brand seemed perfect for a nightwear line,” says Cat Pip cards Elliott Matthews of Poeticgem. “Bovril isn’t just a drink, it’s an in the UK institution, and these new products will tap into the deep love JELC, the global and affection the UK public has for the brand.” licensing agent for the My Cat Pip Cartamundi signs Teenage Mutant design brand, and Ninja Turtles Over the Moon, My Card games specialist, Cat Pip’s creator, Cartamundi, has have announced signed Teenage the appointment of Mutant Ninja Turtles Portico Designs to for official card publish and distribute My Cat Pip greetings cards in the UK. games products. Over the Moon has been the main distributor of the brand to date. The company will However, the growing popularity of the charming little black cat and a be launching the strong demand for new design and product ideas has driven an even licensed collection in greater focus by Over the Moon on its core business. Therefore, after the coming months. careful assessment of some of the major players in greetings card publishing Cartamundi has several high profile licenses, including 007 and distribution, Over the Moon and JELC have appointed Portico to build James Bond Skyfall, Angry Birds Star Wars, Animal Planet and on Pip’s success in the greetings card market in the UK. more. The company also recently collaborated with toy giant Founded in 1988, Portico Designs is today established among the UK’s Mattel to develop My Uno, a personalised card game in the leading publishers of greetings cards, wrap, stationery and calendars. digital printing market. To find out more, visit www.jelc.co.uk Visit www.cartamundi.com

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company profile

toy story After a successful career in the fashion industry, Gaby Novelli is now focusing her attention on her new toy company, Mousehouse Gifts

After recently selling her fashion accessory business, Gaby set about looking for new business opportunities to work with retailers again, which would allow her to utilise her design skills and business expertise. She first began selling to customers as a fashion accessory agent in the mid ’80s, before setting up her own business, Gaby’s, in 1986. The business quickly grew and Gaby started to design and import her own accessory collections shortly afterwards. In 2008 she launched the Gabriella Handbag range, which was a new concept in fashion-led design, utilising premium synthetic materials with a much stronger design element. This grew phenomenally quickly and started a real trend in fashion handbags. In 2012, Gaby launched the Sabbella range of exclusive fashion jewellery, before successfully selling her she explains. be done in setting up, whilst still trying to keep business to Dewhurst Dent. After a great deal of research on the some contact with normal family life! Being “To begin with, I thought about products internet, in stores and in magazines, Gaby pulled in so many different directions at once is that were difficult to obtain on the high street came to the conclusion that there was a good very demanding.” as this might indicate a gap in the market opportunity to market boutique style products Gaby has also been very fortunate to team which I would be able to exploit. Having for children and quality coordinated children’s up with a business partner she describes dismissed a number of potential products, my gift ranges for home décor. as being amazing, and has dealt with many thoughts settled upon how difficult it was to “My youngest daughter is an avid soft toy issues, particularly on the IT side of things. source high quality, appealing and coordinated fan, but trying to find just the right cuddly toy He’s putting into place all the new innovative items for my children’s bedrooms, birthday for her can be a challenge. Therefore, I decided systems that she ever dreamed of – and a parties and gifts for their friends. This was to add to the collection with an up-market lot more – and that she felt vital for a new something that I had certainly experienced range of quirky, cute and desirable furry business in today’s modern age. This has with my own two children on many occasions,” friends that would be different from the mass left Gaby time to concentrate on the more produced market. After all, a child’s favourite creative side of the business. Her family has cuddly toy holds priceless memories that are been very supportive throughout the very rarely forgotten,” she continues. long hours she’s been putting in. “I’m sure that anyone who has started a “Although it has been incredibly hard work, new business would agree it’s not an easy I have to admit I’ve loved every minute of it! ride! Having extensive previous experience It’s a great new challenge and I’m relishing it,” of both running a business and creating new enthuses Gaby. brands has proved invaluable to me, and using Her initial goals and ambitions were to contacts built throughout my business life has successfully build a brand that is instantly made the process a lot easier than when I first recognisable and has a reputation for great started many years ago. quality products with extraordinary customer “Not withstanding the above, the main issue service. “This last point is particularly important has been the sheer volume of work that has to to me, and my team will ensure that our

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customers are looked after in the very best explains Gaby. way possible, which appears to be sadly lacking The range is aimed primarily at the boutique in so many businesses today.” market. None of the Mousehouse products Gaby describes her range of toys as diverse, are mass-produced and are all sensibly individual, commercial and well-priced. “One packaged without plastic. The products offer of the key strengths of our Mousehouse a quirky, quality and designer feel but are brand is the sheer variety of products available marketed at very reasonable, affordable prices. within the ranges we already offer, and this is “As our range is extensive and divided into something we’ll continue to build upon. fairly clear product sectors, it will appeal to “We currently offer stationery sets, many types of retailing outlets including home money boxes and piggybanks, snow globes, décor shops, gift shops, children’s boutiques, coordinating bookends, hooks, height charts, independent stores and garden centres. In clocks, ornaments, music boxes, gift bags, short, ideal for anyone wanting to stock good wooden toys, gorgeous backpacks and a quality commercial products for the children’s creating sales opportunities for our stockists stunning collection of unusual, adorable, high market, and for those who are kids at heart!” by promoting the brand and encouraging quality soft toys.” continues Gaby. consumer awareness to support our retailers. To keep the range fresh for its customers, Mousehouse Gifts will not be exhibiting This will also be backed up by an online new stock will be arriving regularly to enhance at trade fairs this year which is a deliberate marketing campaign through social media and the collection. This was a prime consideration choice, as Gaby explains: “The idea behind sponsorship initiatives. of Gaby’s when formulating her business plan. the Mousehouse concept was to build a “Together with new apps, e-brochures and “One of the key strengths of Mousehouse modern-thinking, forward-looking business in various online marketing tools, we’ll be able to will be the ability for us to bring in new a totally different, and I think, individual way. ensure that our retailers receive accurate and ranges every month, enabling our customers With the internet and social media becoming up-to-the-minute information on new ranges to stock an ever-changing range of goods common place in our daily lives, we are all that will be launched each month. We will offer so that customers will keep calling in to see experiencing huge changes in the way we live, an easy-to-use, interactive way of ordering what’s new. Once a range is sold out, it will be work and of course, shop. new lines and top-ups at the touch of a button replaced – with only a few exceptions. “At Mousehouse we have attempted to whilst providing the best possible customer “With the plethora of new systems we are create a modern business that we could future service. Our new app will even give you a devising, it’ll be easy for us to keep stockists up proof as much as possible, and this required printout of your order with an image of each to date with new products, and our gifts will moving away from the more traditional item ordered in an instant. be offered on a first come, first served basis,” methods of going to market. “In terms of plans for the future, the “As our ranges will be continually updated, company has many! I intend for us to remain we needed a system that will allow our at the forefront of modern sales techniques, stockists to immediately view new stock as with the emphasis on great customer service it arrives. and easy-to-use IT systems that will give our In addition, many of today’s businesses stockists the commercial edge required in are ordering hand to mouth and not placing today’s market. Along with quirky, innovative, large forward orders. With this in mind, quality well-priced commercial products, watch and with exhibition costs rising and footfall out for the Mousehouse Mouse!” g falling, we have decided, at this time, to use the budget to build our brand presence For further information, T: +44 (0)1606 610 through consumer magazines and press, thus 440 or visit www.mousehousegifts.co.uk

50 giftfocus hubble bubble… Create some frighteningly fantastic displays in store this Halloween Maximise sales for October by stocking a range of treats for the Halloween season. From pumpkins and black cats to ghosts and ghouls, create some spooky goings on in store this autumn.

Yankee Candle® is casting a spell on customers this Halloween with a limited-edition collection full of spooky scents and eerie accessories. Making a welcome return is Candy Corn and Witches Brew. The updated designs feature the fi rst ever Yankee Candle® illustrated scene-themed labels. New accessories include large and small bright orange jack-o-lantern sleeves with black witches’ hats, standing black cat ceramic tea light As always, Mask-arade will be releasing a set of Halloween masks. They’re great value for money holders, orange ghost and pumpkin votive and will make ‘All Hallow’s Eve’ a night to remember! Customers can also order personalised holders and black cat ceramic jar clingers. masks of friends that they consider to be the most scary. T: +44 (0)117 316 1200 T: +44 (0)1926 814 292 www.yankeecandle.co.uk www.mask-arade.com CW Sellors launched the Spider Collection at the Jewellery Show London in June. The range features hand-crafted combinations of sterling silver, Whitby Jet and marcasite which are then moulded into a statement spider shape. The collection also pays tribute to Whitby’s heritage of inspiring Gothic literature and individual characters. This capsule collection features a number of different spider forms, the most elaborate No one is more enthusiastic about Halloween than of which feature a spider’s web Americans, and well-known US candle manufacturer, The design on the reverse allowing Virginia Candle Co, is marking the celebrations in style. It has the inky black Whitby Jet to shine introduced two new WoodWick candles, which Xystos is through, complementing the distributing. Look out for Sleepy Hollow and Spooky Pumpkin, sparkling marcasite set at the front pictured above. of the piece. T: +44 (0)191 499 1570 T: +44 (0)1335 346 561 www.xystostrade.co.uk visit www.cwsellors.com

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Blow the cobwebs off your tired Halloween stock with new exciting shapes, creepy colours and different-sized foiletti from Midwest Ribbons. The Presenta Foiletti range adds considerable sparkle to all celebrations and looks great sprinkled over the party table. Get into the spirit with a choice of pumpkins, Neviti’s colourful Happy Halloween range is expanding in bats, skulls or a frightfully good mixture of spider, cat, witch and bat fi gures, 2013. Launched last year, the range proved hugely popular plus the ever-popular Happy Halloween wording. These come with stand-out thanks to the growing trend for bigger celebrations around packaging and an RRP of just 99p per 14g carded pack, with a minimum order Halloween. New products to choose from include paper quantity of six packs as one unit. bowls, honeycomb tissue pumpkins and tissue garlands. Other T: +44 (0)845 450 5886 pieces in the range include a trick or treat kit, loot bags and www.midwestribbons.co.uk spooky bunting. T: +44 (0)845 638 1358 www.neviti.com

Shearer Candles has a range of frighteningly fabulous candles for Looking for something different for Halloween? Puckator stocks Halloween. Its popular Amber Noir range is a collection of dark, sensual a range of skull and witch products, ideal gifts for any Halloween and mysterious black candles. Black and orange dining candles are the party. From skull shot perfect addition for Halloween dining, with various sizes and packs glasses and wine bottle available. The company offers a range of orange and black tea light and holders to witch spell votive holders, fi lled hurricane glasses and outdoor lanterns, perfect for jars and witches’ curse ghoulish gatherings. It also has a range of tea lights for use in pumpkins, incense, the company basic pillars for lanterns and glow globes for outdoor effect. Shearer’s has hundreds of ghostly orange and cinnamon scented candles are also a great touch for the and ghastly lines to suit spooky season. any budget. T: +44 (0)141 445 1066 T: +44 (0)800 011 6969 www.shearer-candles.com www.puckator.co.uk

giftfocus 53 IN BRIEF show Tendence where Frankfurt flash forward th th With its focus on the mid to high-end market, the profitable when 24 - 27 August, 2013 website www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com Christmas trade and the prospects for the coming spring open 9am - 6pm and summer season, Tendence is an indispensable ordering and 9am - 5pm on the last day platform for the industry twitter @Tendence_

Tendence, the international goods fair in the second half of the year, will see around 2,000 exhibitors from all over the world showing their latest products in the Giving and Living areas. The show is a leading order venue for the second half of the year, presenting this year’s autumn, winter and Christmas trends, as well as offering an initial preview of next year’s summer collections. In line with the needs and expectations of exhibitors and the international trade, Tendence will be held over four days from 2013 onwards. “The national and international consumer goods market needs and demands Tendence – this is where the trade puts together its new collections, discovers innovations, trends and design and meets the sector in its entirety. Thus, Tendence is a firmly established and indispensable quantity on in Halls 9.1, 9.2, 9.3 and 11.1. to their product ranges – from the classics to the European fair and exhibition landscape,” more unusual trending products and amusing says Nicolette Naumann, Vice President of Giving fast-sellers. Ambiente and Tendence. The Giving product group is all about gift ideas Genuine and costume jewellery, stylish The various product segments cover six for the coming Christmas season and next accessories, high-end plant pots and pot exhibition halls: Living with new tableware and year’s springtime. covers, fashion products and stationery are household collections is in Halls 8.0, 9.0 and Professional buyers will find everything just a few of the items available from the huge 11.1, and gift articles and jewellery are located here that they need for a creative approach assortment offered by international suppliers.

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Living Extensive complementary programme with In the Living section, international exhibitors lectures and workshops will be presenting everything from interior The extensive complementary programme design to the latest accessories for the home, at Tendence also offers great value. In the as well as seasonal decoration ideas. Carat section (Hall 9.3), jewellery dealers will The range of goods includes high-end and find a new edition of ‘Carat! On Stage’ with traditional furnishing ideas, home textiles and lectures covering a variety of interesting topics. small pieces of furniture, as well as lamps, Prominently positioned in the jewellery hall, a outdoor items and garden accessories. Watch Area will enrich the product spectrum. Thanks to the Talents promotional workshop. There, in Hall 9.2, retailers can learn New events running alongside Tendence programme, young designers once again have how to turn their shop windows into genuine Two new events will run concurrently with the opportunity to present their prototypes customer magnets. Additionally, the LifeCare Tendence 2013 at Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition and small product series to an international Initiative at Tendence honours goods that are Centre. The Ecostyle trade fair is the first audience, and to make important contacts in consumer friendly with the Home&Trend information and order platform for certified the consumer-goods sector. Award. The award-winning products will be on sustainable consumer goods in the European Besides the Carat Talents Area in Hall 9.3, show in a special exhibition in Hall 9.0. retail trade and, from 24th - 26th August, 2013, visitors will find more young designers in the international manufacturers will show ‘green’ Modern Crafts segment where they’ll have Arts and crafts at Tendence lifestyle and design products in Hall 10.1. an unrivalled opportunity to show what they Tendence is also an important platform for During Webchance in Galleria 1, on 24th can do. The areas have been created as a modern arts and crafts. The ‘form’ exhibition - 25th August, 2013, small to medium-sized result of an initiative by the Federal Ministry of presents products from Tendence exhibitors retailers will be able to gain insights into Economics and Technology (Bundesministerium that have been selected by a jury of experts successful internet advertising and sales. Both für Wirtschaft und Technologie – BMWi). as being particularly high in imagination and events offer Tendence visitors great added Valuable tips on visual merchandising will quality. As in previous years, the Hessian State value and supplementary benefits. be available at the Window Dressing Live Award for German Arts & Crafts will also be presented at Tendence. Germany’s oldest state award was donated by Hessian Minister, President Georg August Zinn, at the suggestion of the Hessian Arts & Crafts Association (Kunsthandwerk Hessen e. V.) in 1951. This year, the promotional award for products distinguished by outstanding artistic and hand-crafted features will be given for the 63rd time. g

Visit www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com to find out more about the show and register to attend.

giftfocus 55 eastern style If you’re planning a trip to Harrogate, why not visit The Japanese Shop’s new showroom…

• The Black Lucky Cat protects you from ill health. • The Gold Lucky Cat brings you riches. • A Lucky Cat raising its left hand invites customers to a business. • A Lucky Cat raising its right hand invites prosperity and success.

Japanese kitchen knives (brand new) The Japanese Shop welcomes you to its new The Japanese Shop has just taken delivery showroom, which is just one mile from the of a brand new and exclusive collection of centre of Harrogate. The company looks after Japanese kitchen knives. The handles have been wholesale customers across Europe, as well made from pakka wood and sandal wood, as the UK, and recently welcomed customers and the blades are crafted from the highest from Spain who flew in especially. quality Damascus steel that has been folded many times, in the same style as the katana, Kokeshi Dolls the Japanese sword. The result is a range of Japanese Kokeshi Dolls were originally crafted knives that have tremendous balance, as well as by farmers in northern Japan as toys for blades with incredible strength and sharpness. their children and grandchildren, but are now approximately 100 different Kokeshi Dolls to recognised as traditional Japanese folk art. The choose from, The Japanese Shop has one of Organic Japanese incense (brand new) award-winning authentic Japanese Kokeshi the best collections outside Japan. The new and exclusive collection of organic Dolls from The Japanese Shop are still largely Japanese incense has been made with hand-made from cherry or mizuki trees using Kimonos meticulously-blended fragrances and traditional traditional methods, and usually feature girls’ The Japanese Shop offers a superb collection manufacturing methods. Japanese incense is faces and gorgeous floral designs. Every doll of authentic Japanese Kimonos in silk, cotton reputed to be the finest in the world due to is given its own name by the craftsman who and polyester to relax in at home or on the lightness and delicacy of the scent. g lovingly created it, ensuring that every Kokeshi holiday. All Kimonos are hand-finished by Doll radiates its own individual spirit. With specialist craftsmen, come in just three simple size options and are ideal gifts for both men Contact details: and women. The Japanese Shop The Studio Lucky Cats Harrogate Business Centre Japanese people love to have Lucky Cats Hookstone Avenue (Maneki Neko) as mascots, to bring good Harrogate fortune, invite happiness and bring prosperity HG2 8ER to a business. In Japan they are placed at the T: +44 (0)1423 876 320 entrance of houses and in store windows. E: [email protected] • The White Lucky Cat invites happiness. www.thejapaneseshop.co.uk

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home & gift head to Harrogate It’s that time of year again when Home & Gift rolls into town

In brief show Home & Gift where Harrogate International Centre when 14th - 17th July, 2013 website www.homeandgift.co.uk opening times 9am - 6pm and 9am - 4pm on the last day twitter @HomeAndGift2013 Retreat Home, www.retreat-home.com Retreat Home,

giftfocus 59 head to Harrogate

likes of Select Cards, Blue Eyed Sun, Ambiente, Holy Mackerel, Glick, Chase me Charlie, Wrendale Designs, Mint, Courgette Cards, Forever Handmade Cards and many more. Many retailers recognise that Home & Gift is a fantastic chance to source their all-important Home & Gift is the seasonal round-up of Christmas stock to set themselves up for a design-led and everyday gifts, homeware, more profitable festive period. Visitors will not jewellery and fashion accessories, greetings be disappointed by taking the time to attend, cards and stationery, plus much more. and it’s recommended that retailers plan to Perfectly timed in July, Home & Gift gives spend more than one day at the show in order you the opportunity to be the first to stock to experience all that the show has to offer. individual products with a difference, ahead of Whilst at the show, why not consider making the competition. with pleasure. your visit even more enjoyable and take time The variety of products on offer is not only Many brands will be sharing show-only out after a productive day of product sourcing set to inspire you, but will help you quickly offers, allowing retailers to stretch their to explore all the delights of Harrogate? With and successfully stock your store with a budgets even further. Furthermore, over 50 so much to do and see, the town offers the comprehensive and one-of-a-kind selection of per cent of exhibitors are exclusive to Home perfect short break location. profit-making products. & Gift and can’t be found at any other show, A visit to Home & Gift is a fantastic Preparations are in full swing to ensure that including Alessi, Lisbeth Dahl, Max Benjamin, opportunity to mix with like-minded buyers, Home & Gift continues to be the must-visit Gisela Graham, Heaven Sends and more. view new product ranges and keep up to destination for retailers looking to prepare for The footprint of the show will look different date with collections that may not have been their most profitable Christmas yet. this year, with the addition of a new hall – Hall considered previously. Each year, the show welcomes more than G in the Harrogate International Centre – 13,000 visitors, all of whom benefit from the where Spotlight will be launched. Spotlight opportunity to visit over 1,000 exhibitors all in brings together never seen before, original one, historic location. The town of Harrogate and quality gifts that will give stores a point of contributes to making Home & Gift many difference on the high street this Christmas. To pre-register to attend the show, simply retailers’ favourite buying event, giving visitors Greetings and stationery suppliers will visit www.homeandgift.co.uk/register to the show the opportunity to mix business continue to be hosted in Hall H, including the

60 giftfocus head to Harrogate GENERAL GIFTS Halls A, B, D and Q Gift & Home Marquee Cairn Hotel Enesco Marquee Salco Marquee Exhibitor profiles

Pintail Candles Stand A19 www.pintailcandles.com Pintail Candles is celebrating! This year marks the company’s 20th anniversary, and it’s commemorating the occasion with the launch of a brand new range of boxed glass candles and reed diffusers. The No. 20 range combines stunning design and contemporary colours with new fragrances such as Oudh, Noire, Black Date & Raspberry and Velvet Plum, and will be introduced at Home & Gift. Pintail Candles will also have all your existing favourites on show, including the classic Filled Tins, Dotty Hearts and Christmas Gold.

J J Vaillant Stand A23 www.jjvaillant.co.uk J J Vaillant has just released its new 2013 catalogue, with more than 300 fresh items filling all of its 180 pages. Since branding its hand-carved wooden items, Once A Tree, J J Vaillant has seen demand rise and its stockist numbers have increased. Despite tough times, the company is reporting increased sales of Betty Boop licensed collectable resin figurines.

62 giftfocus British Designed Ribbons and Gift Tags Free Samples and Next Day Delivery • Minimum Order £75

Ribbons including 3m, 10m and 100m rolls. Grosgrain stitched, stripes, dotty and gingham designs Gift Wrapping Courses and DVD available

New Trade Website – visit www.janemeans.co.uk for details Tel 01522 522 544 (M-F 10am-3pm) • Email [email protected]

head to Harrogate

Exhibitor profi les The Giftware Association Stand A26 www.ga-uk.org The Giftware Association (The GA) is the only UK trade organisation Mala Leather serving the gift and Stand A43 home industry. Since www.malaleather.com 1947, the association’s The new collections from Mala Leather are fresh, original and commitment has always vibrant. There are new colours and designs throughout the ranges been to help members and a striking grey addition to the Abertweed collection, which is ‘make money, save made with 100 per cent British wool and a silky soft nappa. The money and save time’ team has been working hard to bring a bright new look, and this by offering a wide can be seen in the Lucy love heart range which features iPad Mini selection of services. The covers, make-up bags and a huge selection of purses. There’s a GA represents companies from across the industry – manufacturers, sophisticated patent array of styles in two colours, and the quirky designers, wholesalers, importers, exporters and retailers (independents, Max range with a playful kitty on the front. Throughout the lines multiples and online) from sole traders to major PLCs. Whether you’re a you will fi nd the signature Mala lining materials, and all items are gift well-established company or just starting out in business, The GA is able packaged. Its starter selection, Toscana, is a buttery soft leather in to represent your views and give you lots of information and promotion. the season’s colours, packaged in great value boxes of eight. Mala Many members use the association as an extra pair of hands and a Leather offers a full made-to-order design and manufacture service. sounding board.

The DRH Collection Stand A48 www.thedrhcollection.com A long-standing exhibitor at Home & Gift, The DRH Collection is set to wow visitors again. Extensions to the contemporary glassware brand, Anton Studio Designs, include the Torpedo carafe and tumbler set, which is available in aqua blue, amber and purple. Also on show will be the bright and colourful stackable range and the on-trend retro bottle and tumbler set with vintage labels – choice of cola, lemonade or water for tumblers, and water for the bottle. The Fizz glasses feature a really unusual colour effect in the bottom of each glass. They’re available as four wines, fl utes, martinis, hi-balls or tumblers.

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Exhibitor profi les

Yankee Candle® Stand A35 www.yankeecandle.co.uk Expectations are high for Yankee Candle® this year, so it’s no surprise that at this year’s Home & Gift the company will be launching one of the most innovative +$552*$7(+20( *,)7 Christmas gift sets to hit the home fragrance market. '367$1' Imagine the delight of your customers as they discover the fi rst ever limited edition Yankee Candle® Advent Calendar, with each door hiding one of 25 festive fragranced tea lights (Christmas Eve reveals double the surprise). Fragrances include family favourites such as Balsam & Cedar, Snow in Love and Sparkling Cinnamon, as well as brand new scents such as Merry Marshmallow and Snowfl ake Cookie. Looking further into the new gift set collection for this year, it seems the company knows exactly what shoppers look for in a Christmas present; ease and quality from a name they can trust. Three styles of Votive Gift Sets (two of which are a welcome return of the best-selling Gift Book) mean there is a wonderfully fragrant gift solution for every budget, whilst ever-popular Classic jars are available in beautifully gift-boxed sets. If you haven’t heard of Illumalids, then make your way to the Yankee Candle® stand without delay. The perfect innovation to keep candles burning cleanly, Illumalids are the hidden gem of the home fragrance world. At Home & Gift, the company will be showcasing all new designs which can be ideally positioned in store to make sure those add-on sales really fl ourish.

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Home & Gift DP3-24

Special discount and smaller minimums for orders placed at Harrogate Ashleigh & Burwood For sales contact: Stands B18 & B3 Carrie Gregory-Hood www.ashleigh-burwood.co.uk [email protected] Ashleigh & Burwood will present two exciting new product formats, T: 020 7912 0108 which add strength to its already successful and best-selling range M: 07801 715707 of reed diffusers. Scented pomanders and fragranced sachets are to be launched under the new umbrella name of The Scented Home, and will be available in several of the popular familiar fragrances from the range. The new scented pomanders make intriguing and unusual accessories for the home. Especially lovely at Christmas time, they make an understated decoration for the home or tree with the added benefi t of emitting a beautiful scent. There are three Christmas scents and three non-seasonal fragrances to choose from. Spear-heading this range launch in the second half of the year, a brand new Noel fragrance is being released, which is a heart-warming scent capturing the spirit of traditional festive cheer. This fragrance will be available in all product formats.

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Intelex Group Stand B4 Clere Concepts Stand B33 www.intelex.co.uk www.clere-concepts.co.uk After launching more than nine new ranges during 2012, Intelex is Clere Concepts introduced four ranges of these bright, fluffy but certainly not resting on its laurels for 2013. The heatable category perfectly usable flamingo pens at Spring Fair, and its customers have is proving to be a real growth sector, and it’s through regular been flocking to purchase them ever since. A vibrant, novelty, low innovation of exciting and individual new products that it’s helping cost gift is always a good seller for children, or could be a great to expand the popular heatable toy category. With the success of stocking filler. For the late summer and autumn there are still the Socky Dolls and Hooty, Intelex is expanding the charming characters sunglasses, bows and big hair varieties, but new for the second half for 2013. Retailers can look forward to seeing these products, along are the woolly hats and scarves pictured. They’re packed in a bright with the brand new Knitted Warmers collection first hand at Home shelf-ready display unit, holding 24 pens in six assorted colours. & Gift.

collection, Goodlookers will be exhibiting its brand new eye-catching counter-top and floor standing display units. New reading glasses pictured are Charlie, a striking retro frame with a tortoiseshell design and rubbery texture, and Venice which combines an on-trend cat’s eye frame with an elegant gradient finish and 106 diamantes for added glamour. All of this – and lots more – is with the fantastic quality, great presentation and affordable price points now synonymous with the Goodlookers Goodlookers brand. Stand B59 www.goodlookers.co.uk The Goodlookers collection really is going from strength to strength. Included in the exciting autumn winter range are more than 30 new eye-catching reading glasses, some incredibly trendy glasses cases and some funky new additions to the best-selling range of glasses chains. On top of all this is the exciting launch of Eyelighters™, fun, fashionable and very functional LED reading glasses. To enhance the new

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BamBam is a unique Company with an excellent reputation for superb Baby Gifts at great prices. BamBam’s classical gifts have a wonderful contemporary twist. BamBam has the perfect gift, be it for a baby shower, the birth of a baby, a Christening or just because.... BamBam is innovative and is manufactured to the highest quality. It provides fresh ideas for amazing accessories and special gifts. BamBam has everything from Silver keepsake boxes for that first hair lock or tooth, to a silver plaster cast set to keep forever imprints of their tiny Home &Gift feet and hands. Stand No: Also available: Q36 An Hotel Bathroom Set for baby, comprising of a robe and slippers. Crazy but such FUN!!! The ideal gift. Gift sets, teethers, soothers with clips, ducks and very special hats confirming before people ask ‘I’m a Boy’ or ‘I’m a Girl’. The most delightful socks that rattle to keep baby amused.

Everything arrives beautifully packaged for that instant gift.

Finest For Baby Limited, Units 4b and 5, Boxted Farm, Berkhamsted Road, Potten End, Hertfordshire, HP1 2SQ

Tel: 01442 248103 y Email: sales@ finestforbaby.co.uk

home & gift

Exhibitor profiles

Opticaid UK Stand B56 www.opticaid.net Opticaid UK will launch its autumn/ winter 2013 Remaldi Gibsons Games ready reading glasses, Stand B51 as well as showcasing www.gibsonsgames.co.uk other best-selling Gibsons’ limited-edition Christmas puzzle, breaking up for Christmas, styles. Fresh styles launches in July and portrays that feeling of excitement on the last day of include Phoenix, school before Christmas. With a holiday ahead of them, a host of happy a flattering frame faces rush across the playground to waiting parents. Even the lollipop that suits all with a man is dressed for the occasion. Each puzzle contains a serial-numbered slightly deeper lens in certificate and is the 11th composition in this ever-popular series from a variety of finishes. artist Marcello Corti. Also new is Sofia, Beano and Dandy celebrate their 75th anniversary, and to a cat’s eye-inspired commemorate the occasion Gibsons will be launching a 1,000-piece frame with gunmetal detail to the temples and arms. Opticaid UK puzzle featuring an eye-popping montage of authentic imagery from the also continues to expand its unisex and men’s offering with styles comics, including first editions and appearances of the major characters. like Treviso, making its debut in the coming season. The fun and A one-of-a-kind limited-edition comic is also included inside every puzzle funky Snozzles are also recent additions which are marketed as a making it the ideal collectors' gift. The puzzle will be available to order at seat for your specs! They’re great if you keep losing your frames, and the show and like all of Gibsons’ jigsaws, the Beano and Dandy puzzle is ideal for dotting around the home and at work. made from 100 per cent recycled, high quality board.

The Milford Collection Stand B61 www.milfordcollection.com The Milford Collection is launching a new range of candle accessories for 2013, including new colours in its Candle Jar Shades and Plates, suitable for most brands of candle jars. A new nightlight diffuser will also be unveiled, which can be used for both fragrance and aromatherapy, together with wax melts and tarts. These beautiful gifts are mouth-blown from recycled glass by skilled European craftsmen, and are of the high standard that Milford has become renowned for. The company is also launching its new trade-only website – www.milfordcollection.com – and you can keep up to date with all of its new developments at www.facebook.com/ MilfordCollection.

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Kenro Stand B60 www.kenro.co.uk Kenro, a leading supplier of photo albums and frames to the UK market, has launched its brand new line for 2013, along with a new catalogue. The latest line includes a fresh range of adorable photo albums designed especially for baby, a choice of contemporary wooden photo frames designed for the modern home, as well as 30 new designs of stylish gift frames, including the Solitaire Butterfly Series of luxury glass frames.

D & J Glassware Stand D47 www.dandjglassware.co.uk D & J Glassware has had a very exciting 2013 so far. With ever-increasing demand for its products, the company has moved to larger premises to enable it to continue the great service enjoyed by its customers and to further develop exciting new products. As always, new designs will be brought to Harrogate to complement the company’s hugely popular ranges of fused glass, tree of life balls, friendship balls, hearts, tea light holders and much more.

74 giftfocus Daisy Roots Stand D54A www.daisy-roots.com Daisy Roots’ beautifully packaged gift sets continue to be best-sellers, and following positive customer feedback the company is delighted to announce the introduction of a range of stand-alone organic cotton tops. Comprising 14 of Daisy Roots’ most popular designs, including Elephant with Kite, Blue or Red Campervan, Tractor, Pink or Blue Union Jack, Plum Elephant, Three Stars and Birdcage, the organic cotton tops are available in two sizes: 0-6 and 6-12 months. Each of the tops is presented in an attractive gift box, making them the perfect impulse buy.

House of Dorchester Stand D65 www.hodchoc.com In its 50th anniversary year, House of Dorchester will be attending Home & Gift with an impressive selection of premium chocolate gifting opportunities. Included in the line up is the company’s sumptuous portfolio for Christmas 2013, which includes a collection of elegantly presented deluxe chocolates, ideally positioned as an affordable but highly desirable seasonal offering. House of Dorchester enjoys an enviable reputation for the creation of deliciously indulgent, hand-finished luxury chocolates, all crafted at the company’s purpose-built factory in Poundbury, on the Duchy of Cornwall’s Estate in Dorchester.

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Best Kept Secrets Stand Q4A Maingate www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Stand Q9 Best Kept Secrets is www.maingate.co.uk building on its existing Stockists of Maingate’s Stylys products report pleasing sales of the range of scented all-year designs that form the core of this ambitious collection. candle tins with some Following an autumn/winter 2012 season that surpassed all specific additions to the expectations, this is great news for the Surrey-based family company. summer range. With Two of the most popular Stylys are illustrated here. The range at candle burn times of large comprises tealight holders in porcelain or fine filigree metals, up to 50 hours and other candle ornaments including carousels, and a selection of scent running through stand-alone room accents. the entire candle, these Danish-designed, Stylys products are beautifully presented. They beautifully-presented radiate a style and sense of pride not usually found at price levels tins are an ideal addition well below £10. Even at such appealing prices, each Stylys item has for this summer. a keepsake quality and represents a refreshing change from the Scented candles throwaway mentality that characterises so much of the home and included in the range gift industry. are Daisy Bouquet and Wild Orchids, which are already hugely popular. Candle tins are often seen as a seasonal product, and the company wanted to ensure it had offerings that could be used throughout the summer months and would complement the season. It has a Smoothie range, which covers all summer fruits from strawberry to banana and peach and apple, and some more exotic fragrances such as mango and the popular citrus sorbet. In the last year, Best Kept Secrets has seen significant public interest in its newer products, including some interesting scents such as Parma Violet and Gingerbread Cookie. However, it’s the company’s distinct summer fragrances that will be highlighted, and this summer’s season has everything from the purely aesthetic Meadow Fresh fragrance to the highly practical Midge Away.

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Finest For Baby Stand Q36 www.finestforbaby.co.uk BamBam creates beautiful baby gifts at affordable prices. BamBam Pre Shoes has the perfect gifts, be it for a baby shower, birth of the baby, a Stand Q32 christening or just as a treat. Items range from silver keepsake boxes www.preshoes.co.uk for that first lock of hair or tooth, to a silver plaster cast set, to Bobbie is the latest addition to the popular range by Pre Shoes. keep forever imprints of tiny feet and hands. There is also a hotel Bobbie the policeman is a fun design that will be on show at bathroom set, comprising a bathrobe, slippers, socks that rattle and Home & Gift. With no VAT on these shoes, they make an ideal hats saying ‘I am a Boy’ or ‘I am a Girl’. Everything arrives exquisitely impulse purchase. packaged for that instant gift. Hazel Atkinson Stand QS70 www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk Hazel Atkinson will unveil additional colours in her award-winning Natural Selection range at Home and Gift. Shades of gold and ochre, chocolate brown and smokey slate, splashed with flashes of red and green, will complement colours of the coming winter season. Her brand new Butterfly collection effortlessly carries these subtle colours, and with prices starting from £6, they’re proving to be a real winner. Hazel’s blend of innovative design and old-fashioned customer service keeps her hundreds of clients coming back for more.

Suki Gifts Stand Q39 www.sukigifts.com Suki Gifts is proud to be showcasing its Silver Tag Bears range of gorgeous character teddy bears at this year’s Home & Gift. Each bear is limited to only 1,500 Noa Handcrafted Jewellery pieces worldwide, making them a Stand QS58 highly collectable item – each one www.noajewellery.com has an individually hand-numbered The individual designs of NOA’s jewellery suit women of all tastes and tag of authenticity. Made from ages. Ceramics of vibrant colours framed in sterling silver, aluminium soft-luxe material, each bear is or brass create magical jewellery pieces that are truly different yet fully-jointed, heavily weighted with beans and is sold with two affordable. A new vibrant catalogue will be launched at the show, with sheets of tissue paper and an individual carry box. All bears can be many new exciting designs. Most of NOA’s jewellery is packaged in recognised by the silver fabric tag stitched to the left foot pad. Meet specially designed presentation boxes now with a new slimmer design Ellis, Olivia, Christopher, William, Mark and Ethan at the show! and a burgundy colour.

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NEW COLLECTION of Handmade Leather Handbags launching at Harrogate!

Exhibitor profi les

10th Anniversary in the UK Home&Gift, Stand DP1-131

www.poltsa.co.uk | [email protected] | 020 8393 6010

#FBVUJGVMBOEVOJRVF Joe Davies 'BJS5SBEF4DBSWFT Cairn Hotel – 10, 12, 13 and 17 BOEBDDFTTPSJFT www.joedavies.co.uk Home & Gift is one of the highlights of the year for giftware importer, +RPHDQG Joe Davies and its independent retail customers. *LIW6WDQG The show is one of the most delightful events in the giftware calendar 46 and its mid-July timing enables Joe Davies customers to get a head start 1R0LQLPXP on their Christmas buying. This ensures early delivery and good stocks 2UGHU for the November/December selling period. Joe Davies uses Harrogate to introduce its brand new autumn and winter collection, offering retailers the fi rst chance to select from more than 2,000 exciting new products from the company’s Shudehill Giftware and Equilibrium Collection as well as all that is new from the famous

VFDUYHV#FRROWUDGHZLQGVFRXN 80 giftfocus Leonardo Collection from Lesser and Pavey (Joe Davies is the UK’s largest distributor). Some highlights and must-see items on Joe Davies’ spacious Cairn Hotel stand include new additions to the best-selling snoozies!® range of cosy little foot coverings, more than 300 new introductions to the Equilibrium Collection of jewellery and fashion accessories, hundreds of new photo frames and albums, dozens of glamorous new shoe wine holders, phone holders and shoe jewellery accessories and much more. Joe Davies specialises in serving retailer and everything it does is geared towards making its customers’ lives as easy as possible. All products are available in the company’s trademark ‘little and often’ quantities and minimum orders are just £100. Delivery is free nationwide and more than 8,000 products are available for selection with 4,000 brand new each year. The company has won multiple awards for its customer service so a warm welcome at its stand at Harrogate is assured.

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Enesco Cairn Marquee 1 www.enesco.co.uk

The June 2013 introductions from Disney by Britto™ include About Face Designs™ is excited to introduce a new art style to its Studio exciting new Winnie the Pooh characters for the first time. The Pastiche® Collection. Studio Pastiche® Colourblock designs are a fresh world’s favourite bear is given the Pop Art treatment by artist take on the original and very successful collage of patterns. Available in a Romero Britto with a colourful rendition and a loveable pose. Next variety of formats, including ceramic tiles and two different sizes of wood up is gloomy Eeyore, who is bursting with bright, bold colours and composite plaques, the collection features short but sweet messages makes friends with a diamond dusted red glitter butterfly. All items about love, family, friends and life. In June the company launched new are made from resin, hand-painted and have a high-gloss finish. Each additions to the Sunnyside Up® collection, with four new pieces including product is supplied in branded gift packaging. two with a festive theme. Motivational, inspiring and fun, whether the sun is shining or not, they’re sure to brighten even the dullest of days!

Kimmidoll™ Love, the latest collectable doll and giftware collection to join the rapidly expanding Kimmidoll™ range, will appeal to girls aged Lauren Picciuca, whose intricate woodcarvings are the basis of the between 10 - 17 years. Each doll takes the guise of an artistic character Flourish giftware collection, has created a stunning festive range, that embodies international urban youth culture, and will reflect the incorporating centrepieces, wall décor, a door wreath and hanging sassy and fashion savvy interests of life-loving tween and teen girls. Super ornaments. Carving the smooth grained and light wood of the chic geek Frankie, the free-spirited and mysterious Raven, the sweet and linden tree, Lauren creates scrolling, lacy shapes inspired by nature. adventure-seeking Bon Bon and the Tokyo pop princess Miso Cute are The festive Flourish range includes a graceful three-layered wreath, the stars of the launch. The dolls are individually moulded with different wall hangings with a decorative take on seasonal words such as hair styles and are quirkily decorated to capture a youthful and zestful Peace and Joy, hanging ornaments inspired by favourite Christmas approach to life. Each Kimmidoll Love™ doll is sold with a personalised motifs, from tress and baubles to snowflakes, a nativity scene and collector’s card, which reveals more about the character’s traits and a five-layer masterpiece depicting Santa on his sleigh. Many designs expresses the vibe of her style. The complementary giftware collections are made from interlocking pieces to allow flat storage during the include mugs, bag charms and key chains, jewellery such as earrings and rest of the year. charm bracelets, mirrored notepads and lock-up journal.

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clere visi n

Fashion Readers Tinted Reading Glasses Sunglasses Accessories

Home & Gift Hall B, Stand 33

T: 01635 297911 E: [email protected] W: www.clerevision.co.uk Exhibitor profiles

Xystos Cairn Marquee – Stand 1-5 www.xystostrade.co.uk New from WoodWick WoodWick, the candle with Trapp Candles is the crackling wick, continues to top with buyers burn brightly in the Xystos flame Trapp Candles uses a and fragrance portfolio and is full bottle of perfume the clear best-seller of all the in every 7oz candle, company’s products. The creative which is guaranteed to Virginia Candle Company fragrance a home from is constantly innovating and top to bottom. Trapp bringing new lines to market, has been voted the best and Home & Gift will see the scented cotton wick introduction of 12 more core candle by customers fragrances available in 10oz and in the US. The range 22oz candles, as well as five new comprises vessels and votives with a 20-hour burn time, and 10 of seasonal scents, wax melts, a the best-selling reed diffusers in stunning packaging. There are also reed diffuser and four Gallerie 13 room fragrance sprays in attractive French-style perfume bottles. tins – Sunset Beach, Sugared Grapefruit, Black Cherry and Baby Powder.

Revolutionary Ribbonwick Aesthetic Aquiesse Ribbonwick, the WoodWick sister brand, features secret technology The latest addition to the Xystos offering is the Aquiesse Collection of that is said to give a mellower burn than that of a wooden wick Aesthetic Scents, which was introduced with three ranges. The Black or cotton wick. The stylish vessels are simply beautiful. Recently Currents and White Currents line feature travel tin candles, gift-boxed introduced Ribbonwick pieces include Toasted Tonka, Ocean Lagoon, candles and reed diffuser gift sets. Black Currents are sleek, ultra-thick Black Forest, Parisian Vanilla and Sugared Praline. The Harrogate glass vessels. Each of its three fragrances is rich and textured and has show will see line extensions to Décor Glass and Décor White a deep woody undertone. White Currents has crisp, milky-white glass with Moroccan Spice and Snow Flower newly available in large vessels and a trio of fragrances with bright, fresh top notes and signature and medium sizes in both ranges. Nine new fragrances/vessels are floral or fruit heart notes. The Portfolio collection has eight scents, proposed with RRPs from £19.99 - £49.99. including Luxe Linen.

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Exhibitor profi les

'PSGVMMEFUBJMTPOPVSSBOHFWJTJU Cool Trade Winds ZZZSUHVKRHVFRXN Stand QS-109 HPDLOJOGP!QSFTIPFTDPVLWHO www.cooltradewinds.co.uk Cool Trade Winds specialises in fair trade fashion scarves, and is now pleased to introduce a new range of glad bead roll bracelets. These traditional Napalese beaded bracelets are hand-made by a women’s cooperative based in Kathmandu. Each bracelet is hand-crocheted using cotton and glass beads. The designs are individual, fun and above all fairly traded. They are sold in packs of 10, 20 and 30 pieces, priced at £1.90 per piece.

Kate Hamilton-Hunter Studio Stand QS-81A www.katehh.co.uk Kate Hamilton-Hunter Studio is going all sparkly this Christmas! The company has put together a new collection of its best-selling Hearts, Doves and Stars, all with sumptuous Swarovski crystals. There are three colourways to choose from: black and silver, jewel colours and print. Crystals have been added to some of the plain jewellery, which will be available exclusively for the Christmas period. Place pre-orders at Home & Gift, via the company’s agents or website to guarantee delivery in time for the busy shopping period.

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Sea Gems Stand C14 www.seagems.co.uk Sea Gems will be presenting hundreds of new and exciting designs for summer 2013. Contemporary silver jewellery brand Pure Origins features a creative and lively mix of floral, animal and natural designs, hand-crafted into pretty, dainty, cute, romantic and whimsical pieces. The traditional Celtic Lands and Mackintosh collections feature beautifully crafted silver and enamel jewellery, capturing both the heritage and intricate design of ancient artwork and the simplicity and elegance of Mackintosh style. The Gift collections showcase the finest in the company’s designs and include stunning pillboxes, pens, bookmarks and compacts. Sparkling crystal pens and dynamic stylus highlight the contemporary gift range and are the perfect modern accessories.

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Capiz Exhibitor profiles Stand C35A www.capiz.co.uk Kali Ma Designs Capiz will be launching Stand C46 its new autumn/ www.kalimadesigns.com winter collections of Well known for its eclectic range jewellery, handbags of semi-precious stone-set silver and accessories all in and Marcasite jewellery, Kali Ma the latest colours for Designs will be launching a brand the season. Capiz has new collection of silver jewellery kept its colour palette set with the best quality cubic neutral this season, zirconia to bring a little bling to the with shades of black, show! From basic solitaire studs grey and autumnal to glitzy hearts with micro-set browns combined with stones to truly dazzle, there is dominant splashes something for everyone. A range of colour including coupled with black spinel, for a red, purple and mustard. The Capiz handbag range is once again sophisticated look, incorporates set to be popular with new and existing customers alike. New stunning cocktail rings and pendant and earring sets for a very grown up and interesting fabrics make up the collection, along with the feel, and combined with freshwater pearls to present a classic look for coordinating colour theme. Soft, slouchy bags, sit along side more everyday, evening or bridal wear. structured designs to offer a comprehensive range.

Midhaven Stand C24A www.midhaven.co.uk Tribal Steel by Midhaven will be showing its best-selling range of leather and stainless steel bracelets and necklets for men and Vizati women. The new summer collection of colours and styles with be Stand C26 debuted along with new stainless steel rings and bracelets for men. www.vizati.com All Tribal Steel products come with free hessian pouches, and for Excellent pricing, great designs and attractive packaging have helped the £200 a free point of sale display. RRPs range from £8 - £35, making 5XTRA range by Vizati to shine in difficult economic times. The majority great quality leather and top grade 316L stainless steel affordable. of the collection retails for under £20, including snake chains and gift This is a great value range that appeals to the masses and comes in boxes. Five microns of silver plate, which is thicker than usual, ensures seven sizes so there’s something for everybody. greater durability, and the range benefits from being nickel free and easy to clean if necessary.

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Exhibitor profiles GREETINGS & STATIONERY Hall H Blue Eyed Sun Stand H90 www.blueeyedsun.co.uk Blue Eyed Sun is launching 30 new everyday cards to enhance its best-selling hand-made card range. Based on original hand-stitched embroideries, the new cards include some really cute designs, covering autumn 2013 range in stock now – see us at birthdays and many of the top-selling loved ones and relations captions. home and gift (stands QS-111 and DP1-67) This range has been a real hit this year and complements the company’s Call - 01620 824 392 top selling embroidered Vintage range. Email - [email protected] Order online - www.fairtradewholesale.co.uk The designs will be launched at Harrogate, along with a sneak preview of its forthcoming spring 2014 collection covering Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. These new cards all come cello-wrapped with a coloured envelope and measure 170mm sq. Priced at £1.25 each trade (£2.99 RRP), the designs come in sixes. Blue Eyed Sun has a new brochure available with details of the entire range, and a trade-only website where you can order online. It also has a team of sales agents across the country that can come in to see you with samples and help you choose the right look for your shop.

90 giftfocus Holy Mackerel (UK) Stand H50 www.holy-mackerel.co.uk Holy Mackerel is pleased to be launching a whole host of new One Lump or Two card designs at Home & Gift. This popular occasions range, featuring Erica Sturla’s signature polymer clay figures, makes a welcome splash of colour in any display. The latest designs include brand new birthday cards for mums and sisters, as well as new engagement, wedding and christening cards. Following on from the success of Erica’s age birthday cards, Holy Mackerel is launching some ever so young at heart 55th and 75th designs too.

Molly Mae Stand H111 www.mollymae.co.uk Molly Mae will be adding new designs to the You are range at Home & Gift. First launched earlier this year, the range mixes fun, occasionally cheeky words with Molly Mae quirky patterns and contemporary colours. The words on these cards truly speak to the receiver. The 12 original designs include titles such as ‘Let’s celebrate how gorgeous you are’ and ‘What a clever clogs you are’. Now incorporating the range into its spring 2014 collection, you will find titles including ‘You are the one for me’ and ‘You are beautiful’ for Valentine’s Day, as well as further engaging titles for Mother’s and Father’s Day.

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Exhibitor profiles

Retreat Home Stand DP1-34 www.retreat-home.com Retreat Home has a stunning range of Christmas gifts and decorations this season. For the first time, its perennially popular Alljoy Design range of metal decorations, including sleigh bells, angels and Stand H118 snowflakes, is available in a gold finish as well as silver. Elsewhere, www.alloydesign.com Retreat Home’s renowned linen Christmas stockings come in a Alljoy Design will be exhibiting a new range of puffy sticker cards. range of festive designs in red and soft grey – a personalisation This card has a beautiful intricate laser cut design with a colourful service is available to make sure these become heirloom gifts that and fun puffy sticker decoration. Each card has round edges, which will last for years. make it look different and fun. The hand-finished greetings cards As always, the quality of materials and craftsmanship are first class. are left blank inside for your own message, and are presented with These ranges merchandise beautifully and, of course, are backed by complementary coloured envelopes. the company’s high level of customer care. DESIGN-LED GIFTS Design Point 1, 2, 3 and 4

Shruti Designs Stand DP1-14 www.shrutidesigns.co.uk Shruti is launching its autumn/winter 2013 collection at Home & Gift. Items include new scarves, some with matching gloves and hats. Look out for tassels, pom-poms and the odd Scotty dog. The company’s range of bags has also been extended, especially the successful leather range plus canvas and a few surprises too. Velvet has always played an important part of Shruti’s mix, so look out for beautiful new designs. Not forgetting home accessories, there’s a new range of bed throws that are great value too.

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Exhibitor profiles

The Puppet Company Stand DP1-37 www.thepuppetcompany.com The Puppet Company is pleased to introduce Snappers. These beautiful, brightly coloured hand puppets are reminiscent of exotic birds with a fun twist. Complete with air filled squeakers for added value, this is a wonderful collection of puppets that are great fun. Following the huge success of the My First Puppet collection comes the new My Second Puppet collection, a range of 14 brightly coloured, funky glove puppets. Each one is certificated from birth and is large enough to fit an adult hand. Fun and engaging, these are perfect for toddlers and young children alike. Also new this year is the charming seven-piece figurative Marionette collection of popular fairytale characters. Easy to use, beautifully made and presented in a high quality storage box for convenient displays, these are wonderful puppets. All of The Puppet Company’s Marionettes have its new anti-tangle hand controller.

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,QQRYDWLYH+DQGPDGH*ODVVZDUH 7UHHRI/LIH%DOOV )XVHG*ODVV$QLPDOV *D]LQJ*OREHV /LJKW&DWFKHUV 7HD/LJKW+ROGHUV 3ODQW:DWHUHUV )ULHQGVKLS%DOOV DQGPXFKPXFKPRUH 6HHXVDW+RPH *LIW+DUURJDWH +DOO'6WDQG' Urban Country Stand DP1-37 ' -*ODVVZDUH www.urbancountrybags.com ZZZGDQGMJODVVZDUHFRXN7HO Urban Country designs and manufactures bags for all occasions, and is proud to be setting new standards in design and quality. Its collections offer outstanding value for money, with beautiful shapes and styles that meet the needs of both city and country living. The bags are suitable for carrying all of life’s day-to-day essentials, including laptops, Kindles and even a book! Urban Country’s distinctive London Style collection of coloured felt satchels and bags are stylish and highly versatile, combining natural and synthetic fibres for strength. Matching styles and accessories allow you to build a colourful yet cohesive collection. The Country Canvas collection combines hardwearing materials with practical features to suit both urban and country environments, allowing you to bring the country into the city. Urban Bags are designed to protect your expensive devices without drawing attention to them, combining durability with a range of specialised features to keep your belongings safe.

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Exhibitor profiles New Overseas Traders Stand DP1-78 www.newoverseastraders.co.uk New Overseas Traders will be showing its range of design-led fair trade products for summer and winter 2013. It has a number of classic lines that are all-year best-sellers, including mugs, newspaper bags and doormats. The company’s home range includes floral printed cushion covers and embroidered footstools. Home & Gift sees the launch of its Christmas decorations and accessories for the coming autumn season. All products are made to a high standard and reasonably priced. There’s no minimum order and carriage is free for orders more than £175 (exc. VAT).

Di Palomo Stand DP1-30 www.dipalomo.com Di Palomo will exhibit its latest addition to the brand, the Tuscan Rose range, inspired by the beauty of Italy’s Tuscany region. Each product within this collection is infused with a signature warm and floral Tuscan Rose scent, made contemporary with added notes of jasmine, mandarin, sandalwood, gardenia and white tea. There are 12 bath, body care and fragrance products, from a nourishing body butter and an eau de parfum to a delicately-fragranced candle.

Scottish Fine Soaps Stand DP1-63A www.scottishfinesoaps.com The Scottish Fine Soaps Company is pleased to be bringing several new gift ranges to Home & Gift. The Soap in a Tin range continues to expand, with three new design-led ranges being added for 2013. These include animal prints, traditional tartans and heart print designs – ideal gifts for loved ones. The company will also be presenting two new complete bath and body ranges in the form of its Rose and Geranium and Lavender and Lilac collections. Each of these is classically fragranced, and beautifully packaged and with a great selection of items. Additions to the best-selling Au Bait, Boheme and Classic Male Grooming ranges will also be on display, as well as items being debuted from the company’s forthcoming Christmas collections.

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Exhibitor profiles

Stubbs Mugs Stand DP1-80 www.stubbsmugs.co.uk The Rather range from Stubbs mugs continues to grow, with fine bone china mugs, coasters, tea towels and aprons. Summer titles include ‘I’d rather be drinking Pina Colada’, ‘I’d rather be wearing flip flops’ and ‘I’d rather be catching a plane’. All your favourites plus new titles will be on show, including the ‘Time for tea’ cup and saucer range and new signs.

Heyland & Whittle Stand DP1-105 www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk Heyland & Whittle produces a range of hand-made soaps, gifts and home fragrances, using only the very best ingredients that are sustainably resourced. Essential oils, herbs and spices are combined to produce a range that is free from parabens and sulphates. Ready for the festive season, the company has produced a wonderful selection of gifts for all the family, including some of its best-sellers. To see and smell the lovely collection, visit the team at the show.

98 giftfocus Rainbow Designs Stand DP1-120 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk The Guess How Much I Love You collection from Rainbow Designs features a new look and exciting autumn/winter arrivals. Based on the charming book, the collection draws upon the brand’s simple and universally understood messages of love from an adult to a child, and is taking centre stage at Harrogate. Rainbow’s major relaunch of this nursery toy and gift range for 2013 features new products including the Large Nutbrown Hare Plush, Little Nutbrown Hare Rattle, Little Nutbrown Hare Comfort Blanket, the Activity Spiral and the Attachable Toy. Retailers can see the complete B.Duck collection of fun novelty gifts and collectables, as well as the Shaun the Sheep plush range and The Snowman starring Snowdog. Also on show will be new wooden and craft toy arrivals to The Very Hungry Caterpillar World of Eric Carle collection and Paddington the Adventurous Bear range of pre-school toys and puzzles. The company’s pre-school licensed gift lines star Abney & Teal, Charlie and Lola ‘Lola Loves’, The Gruffalo, Elmer and Stripy Horse. The Edward Monkton and Wallace & Gromit collections of comical and quirky gifts will also be in the spotlight.

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Exhibitor profiles Poltsa Stand DP1-131 www.poltsa.co.uk Poltsa will be launching a new range of Spanish hand-made leather handbags at the show, alongside its popular leather Obi belts and Corsage belts, leather coin purses and pendant scarves. UK based since 2003, join Poltsa to celebrate its 10th anniversary!

Jane Means Stand DP1-127 www.janemeans.co.uk Jane Means has launched a hand-picked collection of ribbons that are a limited edition, highlighting seasons and trends. After returning from a trip to India, Jane has launched a new spice collection consisting of three narrow grosgrain ribbons with stitches including nutmeg, saffron and turmeric. The 10m roll is ideal for selling by the metre, craft projects, autumn festivals and Halloween parties.

Shrieking Violet Stand DP1-47A www.flowerjewellery.com Shrieking Violet started selling jewellery at markets and music festivals, including Camden, Spitalfields, Glastonbury and WOMAD, selling its own individual range of hand-made Carrie Elspeth gifts and jewellery with real Stand DP1-137 flowers. Days were spent picking www.carrieelspeth.com daisies and experimenting with Award-winning Welsh designer Carrie Elspeth will be launching her design. Shrieking Violet is now exclusive new Autumn collection at the show. Look out for sorbet, proud to supply the RHS, Kew a shimmering rainbow of soft-edged cubes with a metallic sheen – a Gardens, English Heritage, The contemporary sister range to some of Carrie’s best-selling designs. For Natural History Museum and an elegant party piece, Mini Glitters is just the thing. Dazzling dainty British Museum. The company is crystals sparkle in every direction to give bags of delicate glamour. Carrie currently working on improving its is extremely proud that after 14 years in the industry her family-run packing and point of sale as well company remains passionate about its high-quality, exclusive jewellery as new designs for autumn/winter. being beautifully hand-made in Wales.

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+DUURJDWH+RPHDQG*LIW 67$1'' 9LHZRXUQHZFROOHFWLRQVDW ZZZVVVKKPH +DUURJDWH+RPH *LIW +DOO&&D 7HO 7ZZZFDSL]FRXN(VDOHV#FDSL]FRXN Apples to Pears Stand DP2-11 www.applestopears.com Launching six additions to its popular Gift in a Tin range, Apples to Pears admits to being exceptionally chuffed with the new designs, and feels the Pirate Ship in a Tin is a particular highlight. Hours of swashbuckling fun can be expected from this tin, which is crammed full of everything needed to assemble and paint a wooden pirate ship, plus an eye-patch, treasure map and stickers for added fun. Apples to Pears continues to supply gifts for everyone; model making and crafting interests are covered by the Magnificent Flying machine and Oriental Bead Set, while young kids will love the classic wooden Farm in a Tin. The hands-on Roman Time Dig is a great way for youngsters to learn and play simultaneously, while Basketball in a Tin is an appealing gift for all ages.

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Exhibitor profi les

Wild and Wolf Stand DP2-1 www.wildandwolf.com One of the many highlights on the Wild & Wolf stand will be the new Metropolitan range. The collection takes its lead from maps of favourite cities; London to Paris, Venice to New York. The range of cool travel accessories has a vintage feel but a contemporary twist, as it features a fl ash of neon. This collection includes lip balms, touch screen stylus pens, travel case, travel sewing kit, travel manicure kits plus much more.

Dora Designs Stand DP2-37 www.doradesigns.co.uk Dora Designs is introducing a brand new range of cats for autumn 2013; the Feline collection is a delightful addition for all the cat lovers out there. Following on from the popularity of the British Bird range, Dora is happy to announce the addition of fi ve new paperweights in delightful vibrant fabrics, as well as the introduction of lots of other new characters to its existing collections.

106 giftfocus URBAN COUNTRY: “Transport your world” Visit us at the following 2013 shows to view our new collections: Pure: London Olympia 4th – 6th August. Stand Q84, Gallery H1 Home & Gift Show: Harrogate 14th – 17th July. Stand DP1 – 37 Autumn Fair: NEC 1st – 4th September. Stand L60, Hall 4 head to Harrogate

Exhibitor profiles

One Button Stand DP2-36 www.onebuttonuk.com One Button is seeing a number of trends for autumn/ winter. The winter season requires texture, decorative embellishment, bold colour medleys and faux fur. Jewellery is bright and bold, but in contrast, pieces are small and petite. Necklaces and bracelets are sculptured, symmetrical and neat. Shapes are cute, easy and very wearable. Hearts – followed closely by stars – retain their glory as the most sought after shapes. Metal textures move from vintage gold and antique silver into blush champagne. Beads are smooth, silky and embrace Mother Nature’s semi precious stones. At One Button, for autumn/winter 2013 colours encompass cool minerals, sea foam, old rose pink, deep violet and teal, edged with old silver. In complete contrast and diverse, disordered and dynamically bright, are red earth, cinnabar, chalk blue, moss and spruce, topped with a helping of flamboyant pink, lavish gold and embroidery red. Look out for green too, which the company says is growing in strength. One Button is proud to be launching its in-house designed Hem & Edge scarf collection, comprising sumptuous silks, cute cotton prints, jacquard weaving, boiled wool and soft faux fur.

Penny Kennedy Stand DP2-63 www.pennykennedy.co.uk Penny Kennedy will be exhibiting its autumn/winter 2013 collection. Items showcased will include the fun Happy Jackson line, award-winning Nina Campbell, beautiful Anzu and seven new Christmas stories. A must-have are the Emma Bridgewater Snowstorm and Christmas Town products.

Aroma Home Stand DP2-79 www.aromahome.com New from Aroma Home this year is the Super Cute SparkleTM range, including a twinkling array of screen wipes, pillows and hotties such as a panda, bear, owl, spaniel and rabbit. The twinkling eyes, a key feature of the products, are sure to attract attention, whilst the super soft material will ensure the cuddles keep on coming.

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Exhibitor profiles Hot off the Press Stand DP2-97 www.hotp.co.uk Hot Off The Press continues to build its niche range of products, still specialising in beautiful ranges of high quality glass nail files. The company has recently added elegant sparkly Stylus Pens and the Mini Stylus to the range, ideal for use with the iPhone, iPad and other tablets. Both brands are perfectly priced, retailing from £6 - £15. The items are perfectly packaged as a gift and are presented with neat POS displays ideal for the counter.

Bath House Stand DP2-121 www.thebathhouseshop.com Bath House has a reputation for creating seductively tempting perfumes, bathing and body care products, all made in the UK. Everything is made using natural ingredients, including extracts and plant oils that are 100 per cent free from parabens, SLSs and TLSs. Burhouse Beads Patchouli & Black pepper is a sensual, spicy fragrance capturing the Stand DP3-11 mystery of the Orient. This scent is available as a hand cream, bath www.burhousebeads.com oil, body wash, body cream, bath salts and soap bar. All Bath House Pippin Kits are an exciting collection of luxury jewellery making kits perfumes for women have exotic and beguiling names such as designed specifically for children. Based on the concept of make, wear Velvet Orchid & Cardamon, Vanilla Noir & Amer, White Cedar & and share, Pippin Kits offer children a chance to make high quality Pear and Frangipani & Grapefruit. For men there’s the new cologne jewellery and learn new skills and techniques to create jewellery to be Cuban Cedar & Lime or the classic Spanish Fig & Nutmeg. Early proud of. New for 2013 are the Friendship Charm Bracelet Kits, available orders will be available exclusively when you visit Bath House at in a cute Hearts edition and funky Brights edition. Using a simple Home & Gift. knotting technique to design six adjustable charm bracelets, children can store their designs in a keepsake can.

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Apple Pie Jewelry Stand DP3-10 www.applepiejewelry.com Apple Pie Jewelry is America’s leading range of acrylic jewellery, and is being launched at Home & Gift. The 24-piece range is hand-made in high quality acrylic and made with Swarovski Elements. Pieces are available as necklaces, hair bands, cuffs in adult and kids sizes, ponytail holders, key chains, rings etc. Low opening orders, great margins and fast sell-through create a winning combination. Suggested RRPs range from £4.99 - £11.99.

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CarrieMe See our full range online: www.sukigifts.com Stand DP3-24 Contact us on: 01733 261000 | Email: [email protected] www.carrieme.co.uk Don’t miss CarrieMe’s one-of-a-kind limited edition masterpieces, hand-made in the UK, as a result of exclusive collaborations with artists HAZEL ATKINSON JEWELLERY LLP and designers. Known for its high quality and innovative approach to practical accessories, CarrieMe has twice been shortlisted for Gift of the Year. These beautifully useful accessories help ladies organise their hectic lives, plus allow them to personalise their bags by providing a great talking point wherever they are. The range includes fi nders for mobiles/ keys, bag hooks and charms, all in the latest catwalk colours.

Baggee Stand DP3-16 www.baggee.com Baggee and Doggee are versions of a funky, fl exible hollow ball on a keychain for storing plastic bags. Any type of bag can be stuffed inside, and they stay in without the need of a cap or lid. They’re also great for dog walking, camping, carrying nappy sacks or anything else stuffable! The Lush range comprises gold, silver, burgundy and black, and comes in a new bite size box of 12 units, perfect for POS or showing at Home and Gift stand QS-70. any tight shelf space. www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk tel. 0115 9411110 All jewellery handmade in Britain.

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Exhibitor profiles

Becky Broome Stand DP3-28 www.beckybroome.com British lifestyle brand Becky Broome will be showcasing its Swallows collection for the first time at Home & Gift. The successful Feathers and British Document designs will also be exhibited as part of its wide range. Designs are hand-printed by Becky and her husband Kristian in their Cheshire-based studio, using traditional screen printing techniques. Items include high quality, design-led homewares and gifts such as cushions, toiletry bags, tea towels, aprons and more.

Gaeltag Keltika Stand DP4-6 www.lolitadesigns.co.uk Christmas is big news for Gaeltag Keltika this year with three ranges for the festive season. Lolita will be raising a few glasses of Christmas cheer with four new seasonal wine and beer glasses, mixing traditional and humorous themes. The full Christmas range will be previewed at Harrogate. Christmas decorations are also part of a new product range, represented by Gaeltag Keltika – Scandinavian brand TindraTM (meaning sparkle in Swedish). The TindraTM product, Write & Light, majors on patented alphabet candle bags making it possible to surprise someone with a beautiful personalised candle-lit message. There are a host of Wordkits and chic designs, with more than a touch of romance to light up any occasion, plus innovative hanging decorations and gift cards. Finally, on the Christmas theme, Gaeltag will be taking orders of its Your Name in Lights personalised LED Christmas baubles, which are new to the UK. A summer design will also be on show called Here Comes Summer, which perfectly captures the essence of British summer fun – wellies and all! The product is one of eight new standard wine and beer glasses all launching exclusively at Harrogate.

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%ULGJHVLGH7UDGLQJ(VWDWH .HWWOHEURRN5RDG7DPZRUWK%$* global inspirations Visit the Namaste showroom, only 30 minutes from Harrogate

If you’re making the annual pilgrimage to Harrogate for this year’s Home & Gift show in July, you may want to join the growing band of buyers who plan to fit in an additional shop at the showroom of design-led fair trade importer, Namaste. The company doesn’t exhibit at Home & Gift, but take a 30-minute scenic drive along the A59 and you’ll arrive at an industrial estate on the edge of Skipton. It’s only on entering the unassuming door to the showroom that the scale of this Aladdin’s Cave of delights becomes apparent. The diversity and depth of the ranges displayed is quite inspirational. Namaste can be simply translated as ‘welcome’, and visitors will indeed be provided with a warm welcome, lunch and all day refreshments, including fantastic Yorkshire cream teas. There are some very good reasons to visit the 10,000sq ft showroom/cash and carry. As well as being the launch site for its autumn and Christmas ranges, a visit to the showroom is the only way to really appreciate the entire

Namaste collection as well as one-off pieces and discounts to keep margins up. and great clearance deals. The five per cent discount for payment at Namaste is recognised by BAFTS, The time of despatch by credit or debit card has British Association for Fair Trade Shops and proved very popular, and so has the further Suppliers, as a fair trade importer. It’s the five per cent discount for cash and carry nearest thing you can get to a fairly traded orders. Add a further five per cent for orders one-stop shop, and can supply you with a over £750 and this really starts to stack up. huge range of diverse design-led giftware, Discounts can be added together so that a furnishings, furniture, incense, jewellery, scarves customer who spends £2,500 (which is not and clothing. at all difficult, given the sheer breadth of the This focus on strong products is ranges on offer) will get 15 per cent off as a complemented by impressive stock levels. The minimum. If they pay by card, this increases to vast majority of its customers are independent 20 per cent, and if they carry the goods away retailers, and Namaste’s friendly sales team with them they benefit from a massive 25 per strive to accommodate their disparate needs. cent off the bill. Increasingly, garden centres, visitor attractions, zoos and museums are featuring the company’s Ordering is easy and can be done in several products. The focus is to offer appealing and different ways: well-designed pieces, which sell as strongly on the high street as in specialist outlets. • Namaste has a large, well-organised and Namaste’s huge product offer, combined relaxed showroom and cash and carry. Many with the multiple discounts, allows retailers to customers take advantage of this and combine buy more from the company, keeping supplier a visit to Namaste with a holiday or short numbers down while maximising buying power break in the Yorkshire Dales or Lake District

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place for charitable work. Namaste has been supporting the Esther Benjamins Trust for many years now. The Trust rescues Nepalese children who have been trafficked or displaced. Namaste is funding a jewellery and craft workshop in Nepal to provide long-term employment to trafficking survivors who would otherwise struggle to support themselves due to their experiences. Products from the workshop are available to buy at Namaste. g

If you would like to visit Namaste before the show, please give the team a call. National Parks. An extra five per cent discount orders on Namaste’s website, which is easy to Namaste UK, Snaygill Industrial Estate, applies to cash and carry orders, and during use and constantly updated. Skipton, North Yorkshire. BD23 2QR Harrogate week this extra discount still applies, • The minimum order is only £150. Order T: +44 (0)1756 700 790 even if you can’t take the goods with you. £500 of hanging lanterns and get a free stand www.namaste-uk.com Delivery is at Namaste’s expense. (see above right). • Full set of free and beautifully designed Opening hours colour catalogues. These come complete with One of Namaste’s best-selling ranges, its Sunday 14th - Tuesday 16th July: 9am - 8pm prices so that there are no annoying separate colourful glass lanterns, are now available with Wednesday 17th July 9am - 5.30pm price lists. Prices are coded, allowing smaller a free display stand. Please call Namaste or visit The showroom is of course open all year, retailers to show the catalogues to customers the website for further details. Monday - Friday 9am - 5.30pm. and then place orders with Namaste on a Although Namaste believes that trade, Request a free set of inspirational regular basis. rather than aid, is the key to sustainable catalogues, or order on the website. • More and more customers are placing development, there remains a very valid

giftfocus 119 GA news We bring you the very latest news from The Giftware Association Isabel Martinson, CEO of The CEO of Isabel Martinson, Association Giftware Highlights from GA Members’ Day The GA – to John Joyce. He said John stood releases and update their profiles. The GA’s well-attended members’ day in May out in the gift and home industry as “an took Change to Grow as its theme. exceptionally successful entrepreneur, a leader The real deal The opening speaker was Jeremy Corner, in this market and a very generous supporter Following the soft launch of The GA’s Managing Director of greetings card company, of fellow GA members, in particular those just member-to-member voucher initiative at Blue Eyed Sun and luxury wedding invitations starting up.” Autumn Fair and Spring Fair, the scheme will be supplier Ivy Ellen, who related how he and his Those wishing to view a video of the event, rolled out at Home & Gift in Harrogate with wife Jo struggled to cope with their expanding, including the presentations by the speakers, more than 20 suppliers expected to take part. successful business 10 years ago. should visit The GA’s website, www.ga-uk.org These range from discounts on orders A family friend and mentor introduced them over a certain value to free carriage and free to the Looking Back from Perfect exercise and Members able to upload designs and products, as well as the lifting of minimum it changed their lives, enabling them to double showcase products on new-look GA website order restrictions. their income whilst halving their working week. The new-look GA website, launched to As a result, Jeremy now dedicates one month coincide with Members’ Day, has introduced a Measures in Queen’s speech will beef-up a year to other organisations as he tries to give raft of benefits. These are aimed at increasing IP protection something back to the community. the exposure of members within the industry. Isabel Martinson has welcomed comments Social media and digital commerce expert Connecting to the association’s website will give from the Alliance for Intellectual Property – to Warren Knight, Founder and CEO of Gloople, those who don’t have an active web presence, which The GA belongs – following measures told the audience about the importance of or wish to bolster their online activity, an announced in the Queen’s speech to increase integrating social media into their businesses enhanced business presence. the level of protection for UK designers. and what they needed to be able to start Any member will now be able to upload a Isabel says: “The GA’s Copywatch services transacting online. 100-word profile of their business, together continue to help companies with intellectual Mark Jones, who set up online gift retailing with three product images and logo. The images property protection and redress. As part of the company Occasions Direct six years ago, will be automatically tagged to the Inspire alliance we are able to present a strong and gave advice to those considering entering this section of the website, which will showcase the unified face to government. This is helping to incredibly competitive marketplace. very best of members’ products. Users will also strengthen legislation which, in turn, benefits Earlier, GA Chairman Andrew Illingworth said be able to upload a video for each product. our members.” hard times meant that the businesses of some There will be Facebook and Twitter icons The alliance said that the introduction of members had not survived and others were linked to these profiles. Retailer members will criminal sanctions for deliberate infringement severely cutting back on their expenditure. also be able to feature their shops and store of registered designs was a step in the right 50 per cent of members lost were because fronts in place of a company logo. direction but added: “For any such changes of financial reasons. Despite this, The GA still The GA has been tackling the problem of to have real and lasting benefit for the UK’s managed high retention rates in 2012 – at copying on behalf of its members for many 350,000 designers, criminal sanctions must also 90 per cent for suppliers and 81 per cent for years and provides comprehensive services apply for unregistered designs’ rights. retailers. Some 126 new members had been to help companies with intellectual property “The draft Consumer Rights Bill is a perfect welcomed into the association. protection and redress through the Copywatch opportunity to deal with the huge problem Andrew said The GA had reviewed service. Members will now be able to deposit of consumer confusion online. The internet categories for its 2014 Gift of the Year Awards their designs directly in the members’ area. has become an online shop window for illegal and will introduce two new ones, Gift Food A certificate will be automatically created to goods and consumers are unaware that many and Home Fragrance, whilst Collect It becomes acknowledge each design deposited. of the sites they are directed to by reputable Commemorative and Collectable Gifts, and The improved website now enables member search engines are selling, or providing access Body, Mind and Soul is now Body, Bath and Spa. companies to be featured on the homepage. to, illegal goods. We also note the proposed In addition to presenting an award for the There’s a comprehensive page outlining all changes to Trading Standards’ powers and look judges’ favourite winning product, other finalists the discounts and services available, while a forward to working with the Government and will be recognised with a Judges’ Choice award dedicated events page details upcoming trade Trading Standards to ensure that any changes for the favourite highly commended entry. The shows and training programmes. do not adversely impact the valuable work 2014 competition will be launched at Autumn In the members’ area, which will in time done by them in combating IP crime.” g Fair in September. feature the latest supplier-to-retailer member David Simons presented The Elkan Simons deals and access to discounted webinars, FurtherBox out information Award – in memory of his father, who founded businesses will also be able to upload press For The GA, log on to www.ga-uk.org

120 giftfocus food glorious food It’s time to embrace food and the seasons, says Vhari Russell, Founder of The Food Marketing Expert

There are • Makes you different from your competitors difference between your establishment and so many those that stock and serve only mainstream occasion-led We would like to suggest that based on products,” says Alexia Robinson, Founder of shopping stocking a small range of food, you consider British Food Fortnight. opportunities the following two events: Why not look at stocking local jams, biscuits available, and sweets, and chocolates? It also gives you a it’s all about British Food Fortnight is a great great opportunity to try products out before picking the best ones to suit your customer 1opportunity to be patriotic and proud. the Christmas season. base. You may or may not have stocked food The fortnight is designed to give all the The website offers a lot of free support before in your shop; for many it’s a product wonderful products that we provide a big material and the facility to upload your event/ group that hasn’t been considered. We aren’t shout out. The fortnight, which takes place activity. Visit www.lovebritishfood.co.uk to find saying turn yourself into a deli, but we would from 21st September - 6th October, 2013, out more. suggest you consider stocking a few different is very well supported and promoted via These are just a few of the great British food products. the website, www.lovebritishfood.co.uk and products you could stock: Biscuiteers’ iced through press channels. biscuits, Lottie Shaw’s traditional Yorkshire Here are some reasons you might want to Previous British Food Fortnights have parkin and Joe & Seph’s delicious popcorn. consider it: proved that the event has a serious impact on • Offers great seasonal activity sales. Shops taking part have increased sales • Excellent visual impact by up to 34 per cent as a direct result of the • Entices in customers who may not have event, and 84 per cent of new lines stocked for come in before the promotion have been retained since. • Great opportunities for pop-up displays “Whether you run a shop, rural pub, • Offer other occasion-led shopping sophisticated restaurant, tourism attraction opportunities or staff canteen, taking part in British Food • Many products offer great shelf life Fortnight increases sales. You will attract new • Adds the wow factor to a window display customers, increase spending from existing • A great story for your newsletter customers and establish a clear point of Alistair Grant, The Food Marketing Expert Alistair Grant,

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If you’re concerned that you need to buy for lots of individual suppliers, worry no more. There are a number of distributors who have thousands of products and are only too keen to help with low minimum orders.

higher end of the speciality food sector. “A gift of food can never be the wrong size or wrong colour. Everyone needs and appreciates food, and there is no danger of the recipient having had it last year! If they have, it doesn’t matter, they can eat it again. “If you want your gift shop to be different, stock gift food – there are thousands of lines Don’t be spooked out by Halloween. to choose from and nothing adds interest to a g 2It’s not just big business in the USA; it’s retail outfi t better than something different.” increasingly becoming a much-needed boost for the UK’s retail, leisure and tourism sectors The Food Marketing Expert is a group of experts who are passionate about as well. We spoke to Paul Hargreeves of Cotswold developing, creating and growing businesses. Planet Retail forecasts that Halloween sales Fayre for his tips: “Gift food is one of the They can help you grow and develop your will rise 10 per cent in 2013 to £392 million, as fastest growing retail sectors in the UK at business, increase your sales, driving your consumers look to lighten the autumn gloom. present. There have never been more people brand forward with minimal cost. Halloween is a perfect opportunity to stock cooking quality food at home and using To fi nd out more about The Food something a bit different, like horror pops quality ingredients. The economic downturn Marketing Expert, T: +44 (0)7769 683 020 or spooky biscuits – they both offer easy over the last few years has actually resulted or visit www.thefoodmarketingexpert.co.uk counter-top impulse sales. in consumers spending more not less at the

giftfocus 123 insurance solutions Neil McFarlane, Managing Gift Focus readers put their insurance queries, concerns and questions to Director of T.H. March & Co Limited leading brokers T.H. March

What is your opinion of comparison sites and Is it safe to keep computer backups on the What is meant by the ‘Minimum Security’ buying insurance online; is it a good idea? shop premises? condition within a policy? There has been an increase in internet sites Only if you place them in a fire safe that is Most, if not all, insurers that provide cover for comparingQ and selling insurance products and specificallyQ designed for computer media. Qbusiness premises impose a minimum level they do serve a useful purpose. However, Otherwise, you should always remove your of security within their policy wordings. The professional advice tailored to your specific computer backups from the premises. condition will require certain types of lock needs is always going to be the safest option If there was a fire at your premises, your to be fitted to the final entry/exit doors and forA your business. computerA media would be particularly Awindows, and in certain cases, a specific type of Sales via the internet tend to be made without vulnerable to the ionised particles in smoke. alarm with a number of features among other direct one-to-one professional advice. So, I You will find that safes designed to resist security requirements. A copy of the particular would advise that unless your risk fits closely burglary will probably offer little resistance insurer’s ‘Minimum Security’ standard can be into the box and you fully understand the to smoke penetration. Make sure you check requested when a quotation is provided. It’s various insurance wordings, you may wish to which kind you have. very important you comply with the condition. seek advice from an insurance broker. If you are going to remove confidential data If you don’t, any claim you make may not be Take for example the sale of retail products. from your premises, particularly any sensitive met by your insurer. Many clauses can be built into insurance data such as lists of customers and other vital policy wordings, so if you buy a policy over information, make sure that it’s encrypted. When dispatching goods, what should I be the internet be sure to very carefully read the aware of, and what should be included in my policy within the stated ‘cooling off’ period. Qinsurance policy? The extent of insurance can include all shipments of goods within the UK, whether by your own or hired vehicles, haulage contractors, Apost and delivery services. It’s important to be aware that many carriers restrict their liability for loss or damage to the goods they carry. This could potentially leave you seriously out of pocket in the event of a claim although, arranging your own insurance protection can solve this problem. Overseas shipments (imports and exports) can also be insured from place of origin to destination. Insurance is usually offered by freight forwarders, and monetary limits may apply in all or part depending on methods of transport – often there are more than one, i.e. road, air and sea. g

Further information: T.H. March is a chartered firm of insurance brokers. Established in 1887, the company has offices in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Sevenoaks as well as its National Administration Centre in Yelverton near Plymouth. To find out more T: +44 (0)1822 855 555, E: [email protected], or visit the website www.thmarch.co.uk

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q&a all the answers Our experts tackle your retail-related queries

Business growth Neil Coxon is the Founder and Managing Director Our business isn’t growing… how can I drive the company of ‘from you to me’, creators of award-winning gifts. and my team to change, improve and grow? Previously he climbed the corporate human resources Neil says: We’re all busy at work. We go to work every day career ladder, specialising in people, leadership and andQ work hard, tick off the to do list and yet we rarely seem organisational development. His passion for psychology and relationships inspired him to create the ‘from you to grow, change or improve. to me’ journals of a lifetime and gifts to treasure. Looking at how we ensure we start working on our Contact Neil on T: +44 (0)1225 866 225 or business, rather than in it, is a key step to this success. E: [email protected] AWe need to create the time to focus on how we can improve. What do we want to achieve and by when? How can we work on the things that move us in the right Stephanie Jerome is the Founder of the Intelligent Retail direction rather than simply maintaining the status quo? Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) programme and has Here are five steps to help you change what you’re doing: optimised many retail websites over the years. She's F Future – find the time to stop what you’re doing closely tapped into the worldwide SEO community, and focus on the future. What is your vision of success? and conducts her own research into techniques as a What do you want to achieve? specialist in SEO for e-commerce and retail. O Opportunities – look for these everywhere. For more information, T: +44 (0)1635 517 923 or Have a critical look at your business through your own, your E: [email protected] customers’ and competition’s eyes. C Challenge everything you do. Does it really add value? Set some realistic goals as well as some challenging stretch targets for your business. Eve Reid is Director of Metamorphosis, experts in visual U Understand the possible barriers to your success retail training and development, and overseas the vision and work on how you can overcome them. and direction for the group. She is a merchandising S Start with a path of where you want to be in 12 expert, specialising in brand evolution, concept design months and work backwards each quarter or month to see and visual merchandising. Her strengths include team where you need to be at each stage. building, project management and motivation. If you don’t stop to look at your business every now and Contact Eve on T: +44 (0)845 437 9648 or again, you may suddenly find someone else is doing it better E: [email protected] or cheaper. Give your business the FOCUS it needs to be ahead of the rest. If you have any other people-related issues affecting your Janan Leo founded Cocorose London in 2007, starting business, please let us have your questions. off by selling the label’s foldable footwear in the markets of East London. Over the six years since, her concept of Google Shopping ‘modern luxury’ has helped evolve the brand’s signature I want my products to continue being listed on Google ballet pumps, which are now stocked in boutiques and Shopping results, but I now have to pay for the traffic. department stores across the world. What do I do now? Contact Janan on T: +44 (0)20 8829 8919 or QStephanie says: Google Shopping has been a strong traffic E: [email protected] source for successful retail websites over several years. As visitors land directly on the products they’re looking for, this tends to convert very well into sales. This traffic has been If you have a question about any aspect of the gift retail industry, simply write offered free from Google for a number of years, but Google to: Q&A special, Gift Focus Magazine, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, A Essex, CM8 2AP. Alternatively, send your queries to [email protected]. Merchant Centre is now changing into a paid set-up. Qgiftfocus 127 all the answers

By June 2013, you’ll need to link your Visual merchandising • Forget that shopping is very much a sensory Merchant Centre to your Adwords account I have just purchased my first gift shop. What experience; allow customers to touch, feel and if you wish to continue to appear on Google should I consider with regards to visual taste your products. Shopping listings, and you’ll pay for each click merchandising and displays? • Be afraid to use graphic communication to to your website from that platform. Whilst QEve says: Here’s a handy dos and don’ts list to sell your products. Just make sure that it sits in you may question why you should pay for this, help you with your visual merchandising: line with your brand personality and style. consider what your competitors are doing. If • Stack things up too high; they must be easy they pay for the Google Shopping clicks, you’re to get to. probably missing out if you choose not to. DOA Firstly, if you’re not already on Adwords, then • Use visual merchandising to actively drive UK-made stock you’ll need to create an Adwords Account and generate sales. What should I consider when looking to with the same Google account you’re using for • Look at each and every product to identify stock products with UK-made credentials? Merchant Centre. You can do this by going to: what kind of product it is, and where to place Janan says: I think it’s brilliant if you’re looking https://adwords.google.com/ it to ensure the most commercial benefit. Qto stock and support brands made in Britain. Follow the instructions to sign up. Once • Use a seasonal calendar to plan your internal The label carries with it strong references to you’ve completed the initial set up, you’ll displays in order to push seasonal products. quality, heritage and innovation, and brands need to set up your billing information. You • Think creatively about how you can use visual such as Cocorose London, who hand-craft merchandising to encourage customers to A can pay in a balance which you top up every ballerina shoes in England, will focus on niche so often (prepay), or you can be invoiced by buy a particular product by demonstrating its manufacturing for its point of difference. The Google every month, or when the amount function and value. cost associated with manufacturing in Britain is owed reaches a certain threshold (postpay). • Use ‘See it, Buy it’ displays to encourage likely to be higher, and retail price points when Please note that you won’t be able to switch customers to pick up and buy the products compared to other European and from a postpay option to a prepay option or you’re promoting. Asian-made products will be comparatively vice versa, so be careful when you select the • Think which visual merchandising strategies high. On the other hand, there may be a lower payment method. you want to use within each department to minimum order quantity, and quite possibly Then, go to www.google.co.uk/merchants, group your products in order to make your shorter lead times. click on Settings in the left-hand menu, and displays easy for customers to navigate. As with any speciality product, there is likely then click Adwords. Copy and paste your • Do encourage link purchases by putting to be an underlying story behind it, so it’s Adwords Customer ID into the box. complementary products together. e.g. bulbs always worth asking more about the brand, its Then simply follow the instructions, filling next to lamps, cutlery next to plates, etc. values and the provenance behind the product in the required spaces until you’ve completed to gain further knowledge and understanding all the information, such as targeted country, DON’T which you can then pass on to your customers. maximum bid per click and daily budget. • Compromise your brand integrity, image Made in the UK is stronger today than it You can set a bid limit to something you’re or reputation. has been in a long while, and it’s continuing comfortable with; 15p per click is quite • Simply place products in order to fill gaps; to grow which is really positive. I think we a sensible starting point, but the amount every product should be presented with an should all be proud of helping to support the obviously depends upon your sector. You will authority of its own. local economy and passionate about stocking get a message at the end saying the accounts • Forget to think commercially and respond products made on UK soil. g are now linked, and you can continue to enjoy proactively to external factors, i.e. competition, the extra traffic to your website. trends, weather, local events and customers. A128 giftfocus

mobile websites

David Mackley takes a look at mobile websites and what to consider when delivering mCommerce for your customers

Whilst online sales growth in 2013 is predicted mCommerce sales in 2012 were up 304 Deja vu by IMRG to be 12 per cent, the star is per cent on 2011 and the growth of sales Usability experts suggest that mobile phone undoubtedly mobile shopping, otherwise through mobile devices in 2013 remains in shopping is going through a transition known as mCommerce. One of the most triple digits. Tina Spooner, Chief Information resembling the desktop internet boom in the prominent stories about mCommerce in Officer at IMRG, said: “What is apparent is that late ’90s, and studies relating to mCommerce the first months of 2013 is the increase in consumers are becoming more confident in show many similarities. conversion rates, which have doubled year on purchasing through mobile devices as mobile year. One of the factors driving this growth sites improve. The conversion rate (browsers • Low success rate. More often than not, is the improvement in highly-usable mobile to buyers) has doubled in the space of a year, users didn’t complete the task in hand due to websites. So what are the key points to look rising from 1.3 per cent in January 2012 to 2.6 a variety of user barriers. out for when delivering a mobile website for per cent in January 2013.” • Old media design. In the ’90s, websites your shoppers? emulated print media. In 2010, many mobile sites mimic desktop websites. • Bloated pages. Most of today’s web pages may not seem bloated on a desktop PC, but on a mobile phone, visitors are faced with large images and long pages. • Scrolling. In the ’90s, users had to scroll too much. In 2010, users often have to move the peephole around to read the content, or squish the text so that it becomes small and hard to read. • Slow load time. Most pages took too long to download (mobile on 3G can be slow and also unpredictable). • Javascript crashes. Rich media types such as video and flash cause more problems.

“mCommerce sales in 2012 were up 304 per cent on 2011 and the growth of sales through mobile devices in 2013 remains in triple digits.”

Today, the experience on mobile is certainly getting better because more websites have mobile optimisation and designers have a better understanding of what works on a small screen. However, not everyone has moved to a mobile design and usability issues still exist.

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“Usability experts suggest that conducted in physical stores and is much more mobile phone shopping is going shopper friendly than clicking though lots of through a transition resembling unfamiliar menus. the desktop internet boom in Writing for mobile the late ’90s, and studies relating There’s no doubt about it, being concise is to mCommerce show many the key. When visitors are reading through the similarities.” peephole, cognitive load is increased making it doubly hard to understand text. Also, mobile Barriers users will often be more rushed due to the Trust has been a big issue for shoppers. Users context of where they are. have historically been reticent to put credit People find it harder to comprehend text on card details in to their phones due to a mix of a small screen. Researchers at the University security fears and impatience stemming from of Alberta showed the same page to users on the amount of time it takes to enter data. In a desktop and a mobile device. The desktop 2013 there is less fear, although barriers still showed a comprehension score of 39 per exist. This is why it’s a good idea to include cent and the mobile only 18 per cent. So the services like PayPal as an option, as it doesn’t message is clear, if you want to be understood require any card details. on mobile, be concise.

Mobile specific site Responsive design The general consensus is that a mobile- One of the most popular methods for optimised site will provide greater usability and displaying your website on a mobile is to use better conversion rates than a non-optimised responsive design. When the website detects site. In a recent study conducted by Nielson, that the user has a small screen, it displays a when a similar task was given to users of a different version of the website suited to the mobile device, more people achieved success size of screen. Take a look at the John Lewis on the mobile-optimised site than on the website on a desktop then on a Smartphone desktop site. as an example. With mobile shopping sites usually having Designing for mobile horizontal large-scale menus that don’t work as When creating a mobile site, some of the value of your website before taking the time well on a small screen, it’s important to present key considerations are to enlarge touch to enter data with their finger. Forcing early a different site for your mobile shoppers. In targets like buttons to allow for the ‘fat finger registration will cost a lot of lost business. particular, the form of navigation should be syndrome’, cut content to minimise bloating different on a mobile. Responsive design can and cut features down to the most important Menus be a great low cost way of presenting the right only. Small screens mean fewer visible features In terms of menus, avoid having an overly screen at the right time. g at any one time. If there are a lot of feature deep structure. How many presses does it options on a page, you rely on the user’s take to get to the product via your menus? memory to build a mental image of the page ‘Refine By’ navigation can be the answer. John and remember where things are, which does Lewis offers a master class in Refine By menu not help them navigate your website. technology. I checked out its mobile site and looked for a radio. At the top of the results I David Mackley MBA BSc is Managing Don’t make me register was offered a Refine By button. This presents Director of Intelligent Retail – For many years now it has been considered the shopper with options important for these www.intelligentretail.co.uk – providers of that early registration is a no-no. This is more products. In this case, they included options Multichannel EPoS and eCommerce websites important with mobile. Visitors have a low level to refine by feature, brand, colour or price. for independent retailers. If you have any of commitment to your website at first. This Selecting ‘feature’ offers options of DAB (131 questions you can contact David on commitment grows as they spend longer on items), clock (67 items) etc. This approach T: +44 (0)845 6800126 or the site, and they need to be convinced of the to navigation mirrors shopping behaviour E: [email protected]

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retailer interview following the dream Janet Kneen, Owner of It’s Yours gift shop in Brampton, Cambridgeshire, discovered her love for gift retail during a career with John Lewis. We speak to her to find out more

What is your career background? Before starting It’s Yours, my career spanned a number of retail outlets, including a short period at John Lewis in its Welwyn Garden City branch. This really spurred my love for gifts, as I was predominantly working in this department. The variety of products, trends and buying behaviours – especially during the peak seasonal times – was really pronounced and outshone the other departments because customers were buying with love for another person. It really enlightens the best purchases from people because there’s more thought behind each product bought. I have always had an interest in retail from my teenage years, as well as interior design, which is why I enjoy buying the variety of products for It’s Yours, because it’s not just gifts, but homeware too.

When did you open your shop? we could set things up and launched in really understanding what our customers want I always had an ambition to start my own September 2005. to buy, not just for themselves but for their business, and have my own retail shop. My Since opening in the September, I’ve moved friends and family too. The best asset of the interests lie mainly in gifts, ladies accessories, to a slightly larger shop with more floor space. shop, and one that is often fed back to us, is and homeware so a gift shop seemed ideal. The website followed in 2009, which was that customers receive a much more personal With support from my daughter, who had redesigned and relaunched in June 2013. shopping experience with us than they do on taken a gap year between finishing sixth form The hardest part of opening the shop was the high street, and the convenience of the and starting university, I planned the budgets, to align the ordering based around trends, village location means that customers don’t ordered the shop, found an outlet where fluctuating demands of certain products, and need to pay for parking in big multi-storey car parks or fight against the crowds.

What items do you sell? Products vary across the year, as gift buying is very seasonal. In general, It’s Yours stocks a lot of homeware, ladies’ accessories, including jewellery, scarves and handbags, as well as cards, baby gifts and wedding presents. Christmas is obviously our biggest time of the year, and we start ordering Christmas products at the beginning of each year at trade fairs and exhibitions, and start putting them out from September onwards. We also host a Christmas evening every year, which allows for our customers to come along to preview our Christmas stock, and they’re given a discount

giftfocus 133 following the dream

for attending. comfortable in the surroundings you’re important part of the shop, because it entices I really enjoy sourcing new products shopping in. This is what I’ve always wanted customers inside. I try and change it as often as that customers haven’t already been exposed to provide to my customers. The most possible, in order to reflect the best products to. These tend to get picked up and stocked important part of the shop is the window, that we’re currently stocking in-store. Inline in bigger stores a few months down the and I love dressing it according to seasons with trends, seasons and new products, it’s line. Jewellery from One Button is one such and trends, and great products that I have just really important to me that the window is full example; the bold colours really excited me had delivered. There’s so much variety in the of creative, inspiring products that are well and my customers, and I couldn’t get enough products that I stock, but I’ve never wanted laid-out, so again customers aren’t in. I have always tried to be original, and customers to feel overwhelmed when they’re overwhelmed by too many items. My favourite provide my customers with individual gifts that trying to find the perfect gift, so the interior time of the year for the window design is you can’t get on the high street. Competition is clean and fresh with wooden flooring and during Christmas, when we can get large within the gift and retail space is rife, and clear glass cabinets to display the jewellery. I try festive products to emphasise the season, and it’s worked really well having this individual to maximise the relatively small space I have we always love getting the Christmas tree out approach alongside the customer service and available, ensuring I have enough area for easy to display all of the decorations we stock. complimentary gift-wrapping we provide. access for wheel and push chairs. What’s next for It’s Yours? Describe the interior of your shop. How often do you change your window We launched the eCommerce website on I have always found that the shopping dressing and shop displays? 31st June 2013, which is available to view experience is heightened when you are As I said earlier, the window display is the most at www.itsyoursgiftshop.com, which is great because we’ll be able to provide our products to a much wider audience. We’ll still continue to provide our customer service as much as possible across the website, with links to our Twitter and Facebook pages, which will allow customers to feedback on the products they receive as personal gifts or gifts from their loved ones. We’ll also extend our offer of a gift-wrapping service for our online customers too. For the in-store development, we’ll continue to push the boundaries and look for new sources of individual gifts that customers can’t find anywhere else. g

For more information, E: [email protected] or visit www.itsyoursgiftshop.com

134 giftfocus

orphan rights Dids MacDonald, CEO of Anti Copying in Design, discusses orphan rights and whether it’s freedom of use or a free for all

The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act we recommend ACID members use on their reasonably diligent search, e.g. Copyright © passed into law recently and certain elements own websites. company name 2013.” regarding intellectual property have significantly In terms of any potential copyright Andrew Orlowski of the Register said: changed, particularly elements relating to infringement, there are some exemptions in “Most digital images on the internet are the use of images and other works which the new act, which may allow certain uses of orphans because the metadata is missing or are deemed ‘orphan works’. This means if images belonging to others. Examples would has been stripped by a large organisation. The an image is placed on the internet and the include things such as research and private act will permit the widespread commercial author cannot be found following a diligent study where work is to be used for non- exploitation of unidentified work; the user only search, the work will be free for anyone to commercial purposes and where copyright needs to perform a diligent search, but since use commercially. work is taken for educational use. this is likely to come up with a blank, they can Authors will now be able to register their proceed with impunity.” images in a planned Copyright Hub so they “All copyright, design rights and can always be found, however, there is likely to IP rights existing in our designs and ACID advice be a cost involved in doing this and it hasn’t products and in the images, text and It’s also a good idea to use the ACID logo yet been created, despite the fact the act has design of our website/marketing alongside your intellectual property statement been passed. As photographer, David Bailey, on your website, as it shows that you do once said: “You’re about to put the cart before material are and will remain the understand what your rights are. So the the horse.” property of (company name). We advice is to ensure that anything you have Many photography groups have reacted will treat any infringement of these online has a copyright notice, and that your adversely because they believe that the new rights seriously.” intellectual property statement is firmly placed act paves the way for exploitation of images in a prominent area of your web page. Ensure posted on the internet because they feel it’s One of the main areas affected by the new that you send any images that you are going been ill thought out. act will be images uploaded on social media to use online to the ACID Design Databank sites such as Facebook, as the sites often strip if you have photographed them yourself – or So what are the rules? the metadata from the images so the author commissioned someone else to do so. If that Just because images can be downloaded from cannot be identified. is the case, ensure that the photographer signs the internet doesn’t mean they are free to Niall Head Rapson, an IP specialist and the rights over to you to clarify ownership of use. It’s more than likely that the owner of Senior Partner at McDaniel & Co, said: “The the intellectual property rights. It’s all about the website will be the owner of the rights real issue is the existence of public websites proving your origination and ownership of the for all images on their website, or they will such as Facebook where the meta data of copyright work. have taken a license to use any images which the provider is removed, presumably for data If you follow these guidelines, you should be aren’t theirs. On this basis, the use of these protection issues. If you’re using your own able to display your website images knowing images could amount to actionable copyright website, the work is unlikely to be an orphan that you have a protocol in place. g infringement under the Copyright Designs work and particularly, if you are going to and Patents Act 1988 (hereafter CDPA) and use Facebook or some other form of public there may also be other offences committed. website, put a copyright notice on your photo If you check the websites carefully, you will as per Getty Images etc. It removes the need Further information usually find a statement similar to the one that to show that the offender did not use a For more information, visit www.acid.uk.com

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Papercutting for Special Occasions by Emily Hogarth RRP: £12.99 Format: Paperback ISBN: 9781782210030 Published by: Search Press This book offers an insight into how to use the art of papercutting to bring fun, creativity and style to any celebration. Papercutting for Special Occasions provides information for beginners and bookshelf more advanced paper cutters, with all the basic techniques explained, along with creative step-by-step projects. The book includes 60 original We turn the page on some of the latest gift templates for practice, as well as 25 inspiring projects to choose from. books to hit the shelves Visit www.searchpress.com RHS Small Garden Old Roses by David Austin Handbook by Andrew RRP: £14.95 Wilson Format: Hardback RRP: £20 ISBN: 9781870673693 Format: Hardback Published by: ACC Distribution ISBN: 9781845338497 This handy pocket-sized title includes Published by: Octopus Publishing everything you could ever need to RHS Small Garden Handbook know about dealing with old roses. provides an all-in-one guide for Illustrated throughout with a riot small space gardeners, and draws of magnificent colour photographs, on the experience in growing, this indispensible guide contains planting, landscaping and design for important information on rose which the Royal Horticultural Society is world famous. Each of the cultivation, with valuable advice on nine chapters includes 15 ways to make instant improvements and soil preparation, planting, pruning, feeding, diseases and pests. Many a real-life case study. All of the gardens featured in the book’s 300 of the photographs are new to this book and include breeds not photographs are accessible, achievable and truly inspirational. illustrated in the formerly published title, The Rose. Visit www.octopusbooks.co.uk Visit www.accdistribution.com

Insect Theatre by Tim Edgar Pearl Lowe’s Vintage Craft RRP: £14.95 RRP: £20 Format: Paperback Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781908966117 ISBN: 978-0007491094 Published by: Black Dog Publishing Published by: HarperCollins Insect Theatre provides an eye-opening In this book, Pearl Lowe shares her commentary on the spectacle of the secrets as a designer, and shows how everyday insects that we live with. to capture an individual modern Through macro photography, Tim vintage look of your own. It features Edgar gives a one-of-a-kind insight 50 new craft projects, capturing all into domestic insects, supported by an the glamour and romance of period essay from anthropologist and insect style, regardless of budget or skill expert, Hugh Raffles. A provocative and level. The book is divided by room type – kitchen, living space, inspiring book for anyone interested in bedroom, bathrooms and office – and is a wonderfully practical nature, science or photography, Insect guide showing exactly how to make things for the home and create Theatre offers a singular perspective on the natural world and the insects individual interiors. that surround us. Visit www..co.uk Visit www.blackdogonline.com g

138 giftfocus product showcase We reveal some of this season’s hottest gifts

Metropolitan Chocolatier, a new placemat design from Creative Tops Travel the world in well-equipped style! Metropolitan takes its lead Heavily influenced by Parisian from maps of favourite cities; chocolatiers, this stunning Chocolatier London to Paris, Venice to New range of placemats and coasters York. Wild & Wolf presents a range of cool allows you to visit a traditional French travel accessories, each with a contemporary café in your very own house! Adding neon flash. The range includes lip balms, touch a touch of vintage nostalgia to any screen stylus pens, travel case, travel sewing dinner table, this set will have you kit, travel manicure, purses, sunglasses case dreaming about your dessert before set plus more. Ideal for the modern miss on you have even sat down! The cork- the go! backed design will protect all surfaces W: www.wildandwolf.com providing a beautifully whimsical set T: +44(0)1225 789 909 or E: [email protected] that last for years. Follow us on Facebook Wild & Wolf and tweet us @WildandWolf For more information, E: [email protected]

Classic Matt The Milford Collection New to the Clere The Milford Collection is launching Concepts range of Classic its new range of Nightlight pen sets, this matt double Diffusers/Tart Burners. The base is pen set comes attractively mouth blown from recycled glass boxed and is the perfect and creates a beautiful ambient gift for men or women. light when lit. Ideal for all makes of See it and many more wax tarts/melts and your favourite new products at Home & fragrance or aromatherapy oils. Gift – Hall B, Stand 33. We look forward to seeing you at Home and Gift in Hall B Stand B61 For more information T: +44 (0)1635 297 911 where we will be showing a wide W: www.clereconcepts.co.uk E: [email protected] range of new candle accessories. W: www.milfordcollection.com T: +44 (0)1686 623 918 or E: [email protected]

Novelty Flamingo Pens Rob Ryan Ideal for wedding gifts this summer; find Four designs of the whimsical paper-cut designs presented on novelty pens arrived at beautiful fine china plates and mugs enclosed the start of this year and in wonderful creative packaging. Rob’s intricate they have flown out. work shows a balance between old fashioned Fluffy and outrageously charm, humour and sentimentality. Most recently colourful, the Flamingo added to the collection was This Same Moon Pens now come in winter mug pair, This Was Our Place plates, To Be in colours and woolly hats. Heaven mug, Pick up a Penny money box and Boxed ready for display egg cups. in packs of 24 assorted colours. See them along with lots more new We will be launching new Rob Ryan products products at Home & Gift – Hall B, Stand 33. this Autumn so watch this space for more lovely Rob designs! W: www.wildandwolf.com For more information T: +44 (0)1635 297 911 T: +44(0)1225 789 909 or E: [email protected] W: www.clereconcepts.co.uk E: [email protected] Follow us on Facebook Wild & Wolf and tweet us @WildandWolf

competition

WIN!™ A selection of Kimmidoll Junior products worth £750 RRP

Kimmidoll™ Junior is targeted at children aged between 4 - 9 years old. Each Kimmidoll™ Junior doll features child orientated designs, cute names and possess delightful childhood personalities and traits described on individual collectable friendship passports. The underlying message behind the Kimmidoll™ Junior brand is to promote the importance of friendship and fun, which are both vital to children’s healthy development. Friendships provide children with more than just fun playmates. Friendships help children develop emotionally, intellectually and morally. By interacting and having fun with friends, children learn to develop a set of social skills by communication, experimentation, cooperation, tolerance, negotiation and problem solving. Friendships help children to develop and control their emotions and of course, how to respond to the emotions of others. Through friendships, children also develop the ability to think through, evaluate and negotiate different situations. More often than not, children tend to have a better attitude about school and learning when they connect and interact with close, fun friends in the school environment. There is no doubt that children benefi t greatly by having fun with friends. Each of the Kimmidoll™ Junior characters promote special friendship messages, have fun personality traits, favourite pastimes and cheeky things they have done while learning as well as their dreams of tomorrow. Enesco is offering one lucky Gift Focus reader the chance to win Kimmidoll™ Junior products worth £750 RRP. The prize includes: HOW TO ENTER ™ • A fully stocked charm, bracelet and To be in with a chance of winning Kimmidoll Junior products necklace displayer worth £750 RRP, simply answer the following question: • A fully stocked compact mirror displayer • Four jewellery boxes (KJS0650, KJS0651, Where is The Aird Group based? KJS0652, KJS0653) • Four house trinket boxes (KJS0654, KJS0655, Enter online at www.giftfocus.com before st KJS0656, KJS0657) the closing date of 21 August, 2013. • 36 keychains Terms and conditions apply. g

giftfocus 143 Subscribe to Gift Focus next issue... Fill in the form below to receive a regular copy Say it with words of your favourite magazine. Greetings cards Gift Focus magazine, the leading trade title for the giftware industry, is available free of charge to qualified registered readers. Published six times Blue Eyed Sun a year, Gift Focus contains news on industry trends, new products and all gift trade events. Simply fill in the form below and post to Gift Focus magazine, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. Alternatively, photocopy the form and send a fax to 01376 514 555 or register online at www.giftfocus.com

Do you work within the giftware industry? Yes No Name Show time Job title Previews of Autumn Fair and Company name Top Drawer Address Postcode Telephone Facsimile Teenage kicks Email address Teen market Please tick one or more of the boxes below which best describe your business Independent Gift Shop Importer Fine dining Gift Shop Multiple Mail Order Tableware Garden Centre Agent/Rep Department Store Manufacturer Wholesaler/Cash & Carry Museum/Heritage Outlet Other (Please specify) Hibba Number of Employees 1-5 6-15 16-30 31-50 51-100 101-300 301-1000 1001 + Annual Turnover £0 - £25,000 £25,001 - £50,000 £50,001 - £100,000 £100,001 - £250,000 Playtime £250,001 - £1,000,000 £1,000,001 - £5,000,000 Toy s £5,000,001 - £10,000,000 £10,000,001 - £50,000,000 £50,000,001 + Plus Do you wish to receive a free copy of Gift Focus Magazine? • Christmas Yes No products – Signature Issue 79 September/October 2013 part two Date Available from: 19th August, 2013 Send the completed form to Gift Focus Magazine, Pantile House, • Brand Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. Alternatively, register online Advertising Spanking New at www.giftfocus.com. deadline: 2nd August, 2013

144 giftfocus traditional route Sarah Williams, Owner of Williams British Handmade, is proud of her traditional craftsmanship and skills

The aim of Williams Handmade is to use by Richard Sennet and his theories about craft traditional craftsmanship to produce products have been a massive influence on her work, as that are completely original and will challenge have other individuals. the fashion industry’s view on craft. By utilising “When I was doing my degree I went on historical regional craftsmanship, the hope a short course with Valerie Micheal and Neil is to increase appreciation for original skills, Macgregor to learn how to hand-stitch leather. to celebrate British national heritage and to They proved to be a huge influence on me. illustrate the fact that there needs to be a They do everything in the traditional method greater understanding of cultural diversity and and their products are of the highest possible preservation of local and regional differences. quality; it has been my aim ever since meeting Each of Sarah’s pieces is produced by hand, them to achieve the same quality in my work.” using the finest British bridle leather and solid At the moment Sarah is working on a few brass fittings. bespoke projects for individual clients. “I’m also After completing a Masters with Distinction working on designing my window as I’m part at The London College of Fashion, where of Selfridges’ Bright Young Things, and as such I she was also awarded the Off Catwalk get a window in store from August - October Collection of the Year Award, Sarah worked as this year.” a product developer at Daines and Hathaway, Sarah’s best-selling design is Pudleston in the a traditional leather goods manufacturer in Country collection, although most of the work Walsall. After this she set up her own business, she does is completely bespoke, as clients like Williams British Handmade in 2010. to be able to have input into their designs. Since then, the company has received Sarah is hoping to make a new collection of international awards and received critical men’s leather goods in 2014. g acclaim in the press, including Vogue Italia and Harpers Bazaar. The company has also been chosen to exhibit at London Fashion Week by Fashion East and in the V&A exhibition, Power of Making. “My designs are based on the loss of craftsmanship in the fashion industry. Traditional skills and techniques are no longer being valued as they once were, and are therefore not being passed on to the next generation. The aim is to use craftsmanship to produce a collection that has never been seen before, and will challenge the fashion industry’s view on craft and how it can be used to produce something completely one of a kind.” Sarah has also produced the Country collection – which is a much more accessible range – and although it doesn’t feature the extreme shapes of Sarah’s other work, it still upholds the values of craftsmanship, tradition, To find out more, visit quality and modernity. The book The Craftsman www.williamshandmade.com

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