The write stuff - Gift Focus magazine

www.giftfocus.com
Issue 76 March/April 2013
www.giftfocus.com
The write stuff
Stationery delights
GREEN
FINGERS
Gifts for gardeners
FINISHING
TOUCHES
Women’s jewellery
Flying the flag
Made in the UK
Super softies
The wonderful world of plush
WIN!
A fully-stocked
spinner of cards
worth £750 RRP
Sweet
aroma
Candle
s & hom
e
fragran
ces
PLUS
• Gift of The Year
• British Craft Trade Fair
• London Stationery Show
March/April 2013 Issue 76
Managing Editor
Georgina Cassels
+44 (0)1376 535 613
[email protected]
Editor
Lyndsey Hubbard
+44 (0)1376 535 614
[email protected]
contents
Editorial Assistant
Annie Cannock
news&events
Sales Manager
Mark White
+44 (0)1376 535 606
[email protected]
industry news
Sales Executive
Sharon Connelly
+44 (0)1376 535 607
[email protected]
Production 01376 535 616
[email protected]
Production Manager
Scott Brothwell
Deputy Production Manager
Sarah Barnes
Senior Designer
Vicky O’Connor
Graphic Designers
Samantha Lock, Rebecca Clarke
Web Development Manager
Stuart Weatherley
Production Assistant
Charlotte Brown
features
candles & home fragrances
6
gift of the year winners
10
party
14
gifts for gardeners
52
Catch up on what’s new in the world of licensing
Green fingered goodies
competition
father’s day
95
Win a fully-stocked spinner of Blue Eyed Sun’s
cards worth £750 RRP
plush
57
65
Cuddly little friends
stationery
74
The write stuff
special feature
Cover courtesy of:
Ashleigh & Burwood
made in britain
19
Flying the flag for British design
19
74
focus on...
the ga
60
All the latest from The Giftware Association
q&a
62
Our experts tackle your retail related queries
retail technology
Average Net
Circulation: 7,196
Implementing EPoS systems
(01/07/11 to 30/06/12)
company profile
MEDIA SUPPORTER
49
The finishing touches
KD Media Publishing Ltd
Broseley House, Newlands Drive
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL UK
www.giftfocus.com
Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated
with and supporters of:
46
Ideas for the man of the house
women’s jewellery
Subscriptions
Alice Henson,Tammy Wright, Matilda Bourne
+44 (0)1376 514 000
Gift Focus is solely owned, published and
designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst
every effort was made to ensure the information
in this magazine was correct at the time of going
to press, the publishers cannot accept legal
responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor
can they accept responsibility of the standing of
advertisers nor by the editorial contributions.
The views expressed do not necessarily reflect
those of the publisher. Gift Focus is published
six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas
readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques
should be made out to KD Media Publishing
Limited and sent to Gift Focus, Broseley House,
Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex
CM8 2UL UK.
54
Ideas to get the party going
Latest launches and hot new products
hot property
40
Round-up of the 2013 awards
Trade fair dates and news
brand spanking new
33
Sweet-smelling gift lines
All the latest from the world of gifts
on with the show
65
70
shows
british craft trade fair
29
Hand-crafted delights
80
Homeware and Gift specialist Creative Tops
pg live
42
Focus on greetings cards
ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN
insurance
82
Brokers TH March answer your
insurance-related questions
anti copying in design
Growth through innovation
hong kong gifts & premium fair
44
Head east for innovation
88
london stationery show
77
Fashion meets function
giftfocus 3
DISCOVER SUPER SEVENS,
BRAND NEW THREE LITES &
SERIOUSLY SCENTED CANDLE TINS
Alljoy Design
Get Britain
writing!
Best Kept Secr
Secrets Candles
Coopies
opies Field,
Field Morpeth,
b la
Northumberland,
NE61 6JT
Welcome to our spring issue. Well done to all
the worthy winners of the various accolades
awarded recently. In this issue we bring you
a low down of the Toy Industry Awards, Top
Drawer Awards, the Best Product Awards at
Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring, as well as Gift of the Year.
We fly the flag for British design in this issue, looking at a wonderful
mix of products made in good old Blighty! As the weather warms up,
we bring you a selection of gifts ideal for green-fingered enthusiasts,
and delve into the world of plush. We also look at some of the latest
innovations in the candle and home fragrance market, and touch on
party items.
With Father’s Day on the horizon, we have a selection of ideas for
those customers wanting to buy something for that special man in
their lives. Not forgetting the ladies, we uncover a variety of beautiful
jewellery pieces for women.
I attended my first Spring Fair in February, and what a show! It
was great to meet many more of you in Birmingham. Everyone kept
warning me to wear comfortable shoes; they were definitely right.
Speaking of shows, the British Craft Trade Fair takes place in April,
providing a showcase for home grown design talent. Gift Focus and
our sister publication, Attire Accessories, will once again be sponsoring
two awards at the show. Turn to P29 for all you need to know about
the event.
If you sell, or are thinking of selling
anything to do with stationery or
writing instruments, then the London
Stationery Show should be in your
diary. It’s the only UK trade exhibition
dedicated to this niche market, and takes place during National
Stationery Week. In this issue we bring you a preview of the show,
which takes place on 23rd - 24th April, and a round-up of some of the
latest lines on the market. I have a particular passion for stationery and
writing letters, and feel it’s vital to keep this tradition alive, so as you
can imagine I will be in my element at the show! There’s still time to get
involved in National Stationery Week – see P72 for all the details.
See you there!
T: 01670 512222 F: 01670 504004
E: [email protected]
W: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk
Lyndsey
Lyndsey Hubbard
Editor
giftfocus 5
industry news
Catch up on all the latest in our news round up
Award winners
at Top Drawer
The Top Drawer Awards
took place at the spring/
summer leg of the show
in January at Earls Court,
London. Here are the
details of all the winners:
Best New
Product – Gift
Winner: You are here
magnetic brooch by
Turnaround Gifts
Arthur Price and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen launch
non-cutlery range in aid of The Royal British Legion
Women’s Section
Arthur Price and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen have created a new range of gifts
called Remember, in aid of The Royal British Legion Women’s Section. The
five-strong gift range, which includes an iPad cover, umbrella, journal, tote bag and
china mug, is being launched in early Autumn before the annual Remembrance
Day Memorials, and will also be used by the RBLWS as a fundraiser.
Remember is the first non-cutlery range launched by Arthur Price since LLB
Mugs in 2012. Laurence wanted to design everyday items that are very robust
and part of daily living. He says: “I’ve always been a great supported of our armed
forces and the work of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section is fantastic. I’m
delighted that my new designs will be bringing not just a smile, but financial gain
for this worthwhile organisation.”
For further information and stockists details, call T: +44 (0)1543 257 775 or
visit www.arthurprice.com
Yankee Candle Europe® Managing Director retires
Clive Harper, Managing Director of Yankee Candle Europe®, retired on 31st
January, 2013. There have also been organisational changes to support the
continued growth of its international businesses in Europe and all around
the world.
Since joining the company in 1998, Clive has overseen the expansion of
Yankee Candle® in Europe to more than £63M in annual revenue. “It’s been a
wonderful 15 year journey,” said Clive. “We’ve built Yankee Candle Europe into
a great business. I will miss the people across our industry the most.”
John Fontana, President of Yankee Candle International® (pictured), will lead
the Yankee Candle® brand’s expansion across all markets outside of North
America. John joined the company in January, 2011 and with Clive’s retirement,
Yankee Candle®’s European operations will report directly to him.
6 giftfocus
Best New
Product – Fashion
Winner: Scarves by Claire Gaudion
Best New Product – Stationery & Greetings
Winner: Cards by Sarah Ray
Best New Product – Children’s
Winner: Paper Animals by Mibo
Best New Product – Wellbeing
Winner: Paddywax The Relish Collection from
The Fragrance Lounge
Best Dressed Stand – under 24m sq
Winner: Acorn & Will
Best Dressed Stand – over 24m sq
Winner: Lesley Gerry
news&events
Candlelight Products launches Earl Grey
afternoon tea range
A new range of homewares has launched in the UK with the personal
seal of approval from Earl Grey, developed in collaboration with
Candlelight Products.
Celebrating the finest in classic British style, the range includes
everything from tea cups and saucers to teapots, cake stands, wall art
and more.
“For a really good afternoon tea, I’m adamant that the china must be
at least as delightful as the cakes! The homewares in the Earl Grey range
are exactly the sort of items we use at home when entertaining or
simply indulging ourselves,” said Richard Grey, the Sixth Earl Grey.
For more information, visit www.candlelight.co.uk
Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring 2013 Best
Product Awards
The Best Product Awards took place at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring
in January, highlighting the best of the best. Here is a low-down of
all the winners:
Launch Gallery
Winner: Highland Cow by Shakeastickat
Runner Up: Black Sheep Pic by Glass on Glass
Highly Commended: Feather Penguins by Chloe Gardner
Highly Commended: Laser-cut leather collar by Lucy Boermans
Home & Giftware
Winner: Scotty Dog slate coaster by Kazarra Slate
Runner Up: Kitchen Textiles by Leslie Gerry
Highly Commended: Highland Cow knick knack by Blue
Dragon Ceramics
Highly Commended: Candles by Best Kept Secrets
Paul Lamond Games to distribute Think Fun
logic range of games
Paul Lamond has secured the rights to distribute the Think Fun logic range of
games from January, 2013 in an amicable agreement with previous distributor,
Ravensburger. As well
as the iconic Rush Hour
and Rush Hour Junior
games, there will be an
additional 13 lines in the
assortment, including two
new releases for 2013;
Pathwords Junior and
Turnstile. The launch will
be supported by new
point of sale material,
including a floor standing
display unit. Visit
www.paul-lamond.com
Clothing & Textiles
Winner: Tweed Bag by International Insignia Harris
Runner Up: Add a Kid by Little Tees
Highly Commended: Fun with Fashion by Ramblers (Fludes)
Highly Commended: Mohair Throw, Green Grove Weavers
Jewellery & Fashion Accessories
Winner: Tartan Scottie Dog Badge by Skaramanda
Runner Up: Silver Bangle by Sandia Silver
Highly Commended: Wishing Bird Necklace by Tartan Twist
Highly Commended: Wand Necklace by Kleshna
giftfocus 7
industry news
Woods of Windsor unveils new look and
three new fragrances
Woods of Windsor has relaunched its range of bath, body and
home fragrance products with new eye-catching packaging that
captures the essence of the brand. New larger sizes offer greater
value and savings to customers, and three new contemporary
and on-trend scents sit alongside the current portfolio of core
floral fragrances – Blue Orchid & Water Lily, Bergamot & Neroli
and Cedar Woods.
The new look features beautifully ornate illustrations to depict
each fragrance and its key ingredients. Inspired by nature, the
illustrations are intricately hand-drawn and painted. In response
to consumer demand, all unnecessary secondary packaging has
been removed – only the Eau de Toilettes and Fine English Soaps
are contained in protective cartons. This has allowed Woods
of Windsor to offer better value to consumers with larger
sizes at no extra cost, whilst also being kinder to the natural
environment it reflects.
Visit www.woodsofwindsor.co.uk for more information.
Ivy Ellen wins Best Wedding Stationery
in the 2013 Wedding Ideas Awards
After 7,500 votes by real brides and grooms to select the
finalists, a panel of wedding industry experts and judges chose
Ivy Ellen as having the Best Wedding Stationery at the Wedding
Ideas Awards. The ceremony was held at the Tower Hotel in
London and was attended by more than 350 people in the
bridal industry.
“Ivy Ellen was started in October, 2009 in one of the worst
recessions the UK has seen, and yet we have managed to grow
rapidly and now provide wedding invitations and stationery for
hundreds of weddings around the world each year. We are so
proud of our fantastic team, our incredibly talented designer Jo
and so grateful to all of our wonderful clients. This award is for
all of them,” said Jeremy Corner, Owner of Ivy Ellen.
To find out more about the company, visit www.ivyellen.com
8 giftfocus
Toy Industry Awards
Organised by the
British Toy & Hobby
Association with
the Toy Retailers
Association (TRA), the
Toy Industry Awards
were presented at
an event at London’s
Olympia following the
first day of the 60th
annual Toy Fair.
BTHA Chairman,
Frank Martin
announced the
winners of the Toy
Retailer of the Year
Awards, including two
Judges’ Special Recognition Awards presented for outstanding achievement
in toy retail, which went to Toy Barnhaus (Toymaster Group) and Harrods’
Knightsbridge store.
TRA Chairman, Alan Simpson unveiled the Supplier of the Year Awards.
Two TRA Special Recognition Awards were also presented to iMC Toys and
John Adams.
The full line up of winners is printed below:
Toy Retailer of the Year winners:
Independent Toy Retailer of the Year - MIDCO Toymaster
Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year - Smyths Toys
General Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year - ASDA
Online Toy Retailer of the Year - The Entertainer
Judges Special Recognition Award - Toy Barnhaus
Judges Special Recognition Award - Harrods (Knightsbridge)
Overall Toy Retailer of the Year - Smyths Toys
Toy Supplier of the Year Awards:
Collectable Toy of the Year - Moshi Figures, Vivid Imaginations
Construction Range of the Year - LEGO Friends, LEGO
Game of the Year - Angry Birds Knock on Wood, Mattel
Pre-School Toy of the Year - Jake and the Never Land Pirates Pirate Ship
Bucky, Mattel
Girls’ Toy of the Year - Monster High Ghouls Rule Doll Assortment, Mattel
Boys’ Toy of the Year - Web Shooting Spider-Man, Hasbro
Doll of the Year - Lalaloopsy Silly Hair Dolls, MGA Entertainment
Lifestyle Toy of the Year - LeapPad2, Leapfrog
TRA Special Recognition Award - iMC Toys
TRA Special Recognition Award - John Adams
Supplier of the Year - VTech
Toy of the Year - Furby, Hasbro
on with the show
Trade show updates from home and abroad
diary dates
Natural & Organic
Products Europe
when
7th - 8th April, 2013
where London
website www.naturalproducts.co.uk
British Craft Trade Fair
when
7th - 9th April, 2013
where Harrogate
website www.bctf.co.uk
London Stationery Show
when
23rd - 24th April, 2013
where London
website www.stationeryshow.co.uk
Giftionery Tapei
when
24th - 27th April, 2013
where Taiwan
website www.giftionery.net
Hong Kong Gifts &
Premium Fair
when
27th - 30th April, 2013
where Hong Kong
website www.hktdc.com
Top Drawer and Home kick-start 2013 buying season
Top Drawer and Home kick-started the 2013 buying season on an optimistic note, hosting the
largest number of British and international design-led brands in their history.
The international profile of both shows continues to grow, with an 11 per cent increase in
overseas buyers. The co-located events secured the attendance of key representatives from
some of the world’s leading stores, attracting buyers from more than 57 countries.
2014 sees the continuation of the carefully considered growth and development of both
shows, with the addition of new exhibitors and the expansion of key sectors within the shows,
including kitchenware, tabletop and lighting in Home, and fashion accessories, gifts and greetings
in Top Drawer. A new show called Craft will also be added to the mix, taking place alongside
Top Drawer and Home.
For more details, visit www.topdrawer.co.uk and www.home-london.net
Clarion Events announces the launch of
new show Craft for 2014
Clarion Events has announced the launch of Craft, a new
trade event for contemporary crafts that will take place from
12th - 14th January, 2014 at Earls Court, London alongside Top
Drawer and Home.
The launch of Craft is in response to increasing demand
from retailers searching for high street quality products with
provenance; items which are truly original and have heart,
soul and individuality. Craft will fill a gap in the market for a
high quality, juried trade event that enables more than 100
leading makers and artisans to meet a substantial audience of
international retailers, galleries, museums, professional buyers
and collectors within a dedicated trade event in London.
Craft will be run for Clarion Events by Piyush Suri, Founder
and Director of Handmade in Britain, with close support
from Ian Rudge, Development Director at Clarion Events and
Co-Founder of 100% Design and Tent London.
For more information, visit www.clarionevents.com
10 giftfocus
news&events
Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring
soldiered on despite bad
weather conditions
Innovation leads the charge at Toy Fair’s Diamond Jubilee
Toy Fair 2013 finished on a high after three busy days at Olympia, where innovation ruled
supreme. Products such as John Adams’ Holografx, H Grossman’s Megasaurus, Character Options’
Tesksta and Vtech’s Innotab 2s were just some of the examples of how the toy industry is moving
forward. It wasn’t only innovation that caught the eye, as the industry continued to develop
traditional and classic toys such as Hornby’s Scalextric Demolition Derby.
The show celebrated its 60th anniversary this year, and expanded into Olympia’s Upper West
Hall to help accommodate 260 exhibiting companies, as well as using the space to incorporate
the 2012 Toy Industry Awards. Toy Fair TV and the brand new Demo Zone were introduced for
the first time.
Toy Fair 2014 will take place at Olympia on 21st - 23rd January. Visit www.btha.co.uk/toy-fair
After three successful days, Scotland’s Trade
Fair Spring ended with a host of awards and
seminars from top industry specialists.
Against the backdrop of a tough
economy, the show suffered from bad
weather around the UK, with heavy snow
in the Borders and north east preventing
many buyers from attending. However,
despite all this, confidence at the show was
good, with a high quality of buyers, many
placing orders or showing serious interest.
The Best Product Awards were judged
on the opening day, with a very high quality
and number of entries. New to the show
was a seminar theatre where industry
experts gave presentations on a wide
variety of business topics.
The layout of the show was completely
revamped and was widely welcomed by
buyers and exhibitors. Scotland’s Speciality
Food Show is now located at the rear of
the hall and the Launch Gallery has become
the central backbone of the show, making it
easy to navigate and find similar products.
The next show, Scotland’s Trade Fair
Autumn, takes place between 22nd - 23rd
September, 2013. For more details, visit
www.scotlandstradefairs.com
Pulse moves to new May dates
Following positive feedback from both exhibitors and buyers alike, the organisers of
Pulse have made the strategic decision to bring the dates of the show forward by
one month to 12th - 14th May, 2013. The new dateline allows retailers to enjoy all the
benefits that visiting Pulse has to offer one month earlier, offering a great opportunity
to refresh stores and keep ahead of the retail game.
Show Director, Raj Gill commented: “Pulse’s new dateline for 2013 has enthused
key buyers and suppliers alike, as it offers additional selling time mid-season, as well
as more crucial planning time for Christmas. Historically, Pulse has always sat on this
earlier dateline but moved back due to the bank holidays of recent years. With no
interruptions in 2013, the new May date offers the potential for both retailers and
suppliers to make gains that cannot be missed.”
For more details and to register for the show, visit www.pulse-london.com
giftfocus 11
on with the show
on with the show
The sun shines on Giving & Living
The forecasters may have predicted snow, but
that didn’t deter buyers from attending Giving &
Trade
showAccording
updates
home
Living
in January.
to thefrom
Met Office,
the
south west only had 16 sunny days last year, which
inevitably has an impact on the tourism market.
The show proved successful for those
exhibiting for the first time, as well as those more
established exhibitors. Mr Ferguson’s World of
Whimsey had such a good day on the Monday
that its staff took to Twitter to tell the world:
“We’ve taken so many orders on our second day
that we’re jumping for joy!” Something Different
Wholesale, exhibiting for the forth year in a row,
said: “We took more orders on the Sunday than
for the whole of the show last year – people
were queuing to buy from us. It was our best
year ever!”
The next Giving & Living show will take place
from Sunday 12th - 15th January, 2014. It’s going to
be a special one, as the event will be celebrating
its 50th birthday. Keep up to date with show news
at www.givingliving.co.uk or on Twitter
@giving_living.
and abroad
113th Canton Fair opens in April
Home & Gift on the horizon
Home & Gift is fast approaching. The show
takes place between 14th - 17th July, 2013 in
Harrogate, and is a seasonal round-up of
design-led and everyday gifts, homewares,
jewellery & fashion accessories, greetings &
stationery plus much more. The Greetings &
Stationery Gallery had a new location in Hall H
last year, which proved highly successful.
In support of the progression of the show
for 2013, the Home & Gift show creative has
been refreshed and updated. The creative
highlights the one-of-a-kind Harrogate setting
whilst showcasing the diversity of products
available to retailers at the show.
Get ahead with your Christmas buying
by sourcing products from more than 900
exhibitors, spread across six product sectors.
Visit www.homeandgift.co.uk to register to
attend the show.
12 giftfocus
The 113th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, will be
held from 15th April - 5th May, 2013 in Guangzhou. The scale of this year’s fair has been
expanded to a total of 59,500 standard booths, which are distributed among 50 pavilions.
Canton Fair is an ideal place to find Chinese products, manufacturers and partners
and explore the market. At the last show, a total of 188,145 overseas buyers from 211
countries and regions around the world attended. Among them, 26.7 per cent were
first-time visitors and 73.3 per cent were frequent visitors.
For further information, visit www.cantonfair.org.cn
Looking ahead
Pulse
when
12th - 14th May, 2013
where London
website www.pulse-london.com
Progressive Greetings Live
when
14th - 15th May, 2013
where London
website www.progressivegreetingslive.com
Exclusively Housewares
when
11th - 12th June, 2013
where London
website www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk
(All dates are subject to change. Contact
organisers for more information before
making travel arrangements).
For further in-depth show previews
and reports turn to:
P29 British Craft Trade Fair
P42 Progressive Greetings Live
P44 Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair
P77 London Stationery Show
Check out some new and exciting products in the current market
brand spanking new
Bagabook
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Dual case for iPad Mini or Kindle Fire HD
T: +44 (0)7821 895 381 or E: [email protected]
RRP £24.95
Rotatable black polka dot and three-position stand with Bagabook’s
carry handle trade mark design.
The case is designed to fit both the iPad Mini and Kindle Fire HD, and
also accommodates Kindles with a keyboard. It has Bagabook’s trade
mark handle to aid easy use.
For further details, visit www.bagabook.com
Xystos
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Wine All The Time
T: +44 (0)191 499 1570 or E: [email protected]
RRP £19.99
A wooden-boxed wine bottle that holds a vanilla scented LED tea light.
A must for retailers in search of something different. The Pavilion gift range also
includes funky door plaques and cheeseboards.
For further details, visit www.xystostrade.co.uk
Burhouse Beads
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Pippin friendship charm bracelet kit – Hearts edition
T: +44 (0)1484 485 100 or E: [email protected]
RRP £12.99
Included in the kit is everything needed to make six adorable pink cord
and heart charm bracelets. These fully-adjustable cord friendship bracelets
are designed to make, wear and share, and come with full colour
step-by-step instructions.
High quality components make jewellery to be proud of, and the
attractive keepsake packaging makes giving a Pippin Kit a pleasure.
For further details, visit www.burhousebeads.com
The Fragrance Lounge
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Olivina bath and body care
T: +44 (0)1829 730 028 or E: [email protected]
RRP From £9
Olivina’s bath and body products are made with olive and grape seed oils.
They are simple, smooth and effective for all skin types.
Retailer Benefits: The ingredients are bursting with essential vitamins and active botanicals,
making Olivina one of the most sought after anti-ageing products.
Other Information: Visit www.thefragrancelounge.com
14 giftfocus
new products
Namaste
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Hand-carved mango wood gifts
T: +44 (0)1756 700 790 or E: [email protected]
RRP £9.99 (for each product pictured)
Namaste designs and sources goods that are made using
traditional craft techniques. The hand-carved wooden gifts are
crafted from sustainably-sourced mango wood in India for
Namaste but are still very contemporary in design.
Take advantage of Namaste’s generous discount structure, which
starts at a standard five per cent for payment at time of
despatch, an extra five per cent for cash and carry, and goes up
to 25 per cent for large orders.
Visit www.namaste-uk.com for more information.
Lesser & Pavey
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Cascade stationery
T: +44 (0)1322 279 225 or E: [email protected]
RRP £2.99
Cascade is all about dots and customers love the
expanding range of quality gift items. Shown here is the
notebook and memo pad.
The range started as a housewares line of fine chinaware
and developed into fashionable oil canvas satchels and
bags, and now encompasses a line of shopper bags and
social stationery.
Visit www.leonardo.co.uk to view the entire range.
Artscape
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
World’s Best Grandad socks
T: +44 (0)20 8681 8368 or E: [email protected]
RRP £6
Made in Britain, these socks are available in UK shoe sizes 6-11.
Great for Father’s Day and birthdays too.
Visit www.artscapeonline.com to view the company’s complete range of gifts.
Ashleigh & Burwood
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Santoro scented ceramic cameos
T: +44 (0)1932 267 060 or E: [email protected]
RRP £15 (including spray)
Add a new dimension to home and fragrance design. These
new scented ceramic cameos absorb fragrance and will
diffuse a delightfully delicate, continuous scent into the air.
Matching scented drawer liners are also available.
Visit www.ashleigh-burwood.co.uk
giftfocus 15
brand spanking new
Intelex
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Knitted Hotties
T: +44 (0)1933 679 777 or E: [email protected]
RRP £9.95
This new range of Knitted Hotties is inspired by the company’s range of quirky Socky Dolls. There are six characters:
cow, cat, lion, elephant, piggy and puppy. They’re all created with colourful striped and patterned knitted materials to
give an individual personality, with a heart emblazoned on each animal’s knitted jumper.
These characters are capitalising on the trend for craft-led, knitted characters.
Visit www.intelex.co.uk
Enesco
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Itty Bitty Boos
T: +44 (0)1228 404 222 or E: [email protected]
RRP £9.95
GUND has launched three new mini versions of Boo, the
World’s Cutest Dog. The three new must-haves include a Boo
in a hoodie with hearts, another wearing a birthday party hat
and the last one sporting his own jogging suit!
Each Itty Bitty Boo has a different outfit – just like the real Boo,
who loves to dress up for his Facebook fans. Great to collect.
Visit www.enesco.co.uk
Wild & Wolf
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Orla Kiely garden apron
T: +44 (0)1225 789 909 or E: [email protected]
RRP £29.95
New to the Orla Kiely range is this gardening apron.
Other matching items available in the range include potting
gloves, fork, trowel, herb pots, watering can, plant pots and a
500ml flask.
Visit www.wildandwolf.com
Flair
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
16 giftfocus
ShamZees
T: +44 (0)20 8643 0320 or E: sales@flairplc.co.uk
RRP £19.99
Set for release in Autumn 2013, ShamZees is a soft, huggable
pillow-eating friend, allowing kids to turn their bedroom pillow into
a cute and cuddly companion.
A variety of cute characters, including a monster, unicorn, poodle
and tiger encourage collectibility.
ShamZees are a great aid for establishing a good bedtime routine
and can be taken anywhere. Visit www.flairplc.co.uk.
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A delightful , real gold Coronation Coach has
been added to JHDESIGNPOINT’s range of
English china baubles. Commemorate the
coronation, or simply enjoy the
decorative coach in plain gold or with
added colours. Choose gold or coloured
ribbon.Can be personalised to order for that
special gift. White gift box available.
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Pair to commemorate bicentenary of Pride and Prejudice
The wit and favourite quotations from Pride and Prejudice are celebrated
in a pair of mugs from JHDesignpoint commemorating the bicentenary of Jane
Austen’s famous novel. Period decorations and cameos of Darcy and Elizabeth add
further interest. -+'HVLJQSRLQW&HFLO6WUHHW*ODVJRZ*5:
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Konesar Gifts & Decoration
Antique tug filled with wheat, dried flowers and lavender
Konesar supply the finest hand-crafted door wreaths and swags, utilising
natural ingredients, both dried fruit and flowers.
In addition we craft beautiful candles, pomanders, pot-pourri and hearts. It is
our aim to provide you with a constantly changing selection of exciting new
floral home decorating products and gifts; incorporating the latest trends and
colour fashions in our designs.
Hand made in UK by Konesar Ltd, product range from 2013 catalogue.
T: +44 (0)1306 712149 W: www.konesar.com E: [email protected]
made
in xxx
britain
xxxxx
flying the flag
More consumers are looking for products made on home turf
with UK credentials
More and more consumers are conscious of where products originate from and are keen to
buy products that they know have been made in the UK. The excitement of being British is still
fresh in people’s minds after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics last year,
and again this year with the impending arrival of a Royal baby.
Heyland & Whittle was created in 2003
when husband and wife team, Paddy & Ursula
Heyland, joined their names. The company
logo includes the Heyland family crest, which
dates back to the battle of Waterloo. All of the
products have been inspired by their original
location, which was a farm in the Surrey
countryside, and are hand-made in England
using only natural ingredients, including essential
oils, herbs and spices that are all sustainably and
locally sourced.
T: +44 (0)1293 525 825
www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk
At the heart of Stoke-on-Trent two designers, Gillian Naylor and Mark Faulkner, are
continuing to manufacture contemporary, original and award-winning bone china. They
formed Repeat Repeat in 1984 with the aim of producing quality ceramics with a strong
design ethos. “We are passionate about design and manufacturing bone china in
Stoke-on-Trent. We are striving to keep alive the centuries old crafts and skills of the area,”
say the couple.
T: +44 (0)1782 845 870
www.repeatrepeat.co.uk
The Pintail Candles factory is situated
in the Lake District on the north shore
of Morecambe Bay, and specialises in the
manufacture of high quality fragranced candles
and reed diffusers. All products are hand-made
by highly skilled craftspeople, using only the
finest quality ingredients. Taking inspiration from
the Lake District surroundings is the Flowers
range of candle tins, which feature floral scents
such as Bluebell, Daffodil and Sweet Pea.
T: +44 (0)1539 559 007
www.pintailcandles.com
Daisy Roots is proud of its British
manufacturing heritage. This spring, the
company is expanding its range of gift sets.
The sets feature three of the company’s
most popular designs, and combine a
pair of soft leather shoes and an organic
cotton top with an embroidered motif.
Designs include a tractor, hedgehog and
elephant with kite. All of Daisy Roots’
shoes are designed and hand-made in
Northamptonshire, home of the UK’s shoe
making industry.
T: +44 (0)1604 880 066
www.daisy-roots.com
giftfocus 19
flying the flag
Jo Stockdale has always been more passionate about
producing a top quality item than high end profits.
Attention to all details of production and good working
relationships with those companies involved are
therefore required, and this in turn has meant that all
of Jo’s products have remained British made. Jo says: “I
am a small solo company, and enjoy collaborating with
others in production. Not only am I constantly learning
within this process, it also helps to keep a personal feel
within the business.”
T: +44 (0)1748 821 172
www.jostockdale.com
Hazel Atkinson
and her team create
beautiful pieces of
jewellery from the
Nottingham-based
studio. The
team design,
hand-paint, assemble
and distribute each
individual item of
hand-made, anodised
aluminium jewellery.
All earrings are
fitted with sterling
silver hooks and
the pendants are
supplied with a 16in
silver chain.
T: +44 (0)115 9411 110
www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk
20 giftfocus
Kate Hamilton-Hunter has noticed a rise in interest in British made products from
visitors at all trade shows, especially shop and gallery owners looking for products
in the gift price range. Kate’s Hearts collection, for example, retails from £14.99 and
comes with a recycled gift box, information card and pretty tag. As retail customers
are becoming more discerning in their buying habits, shop and gallery owners are
looking to fill that gap – an affordable British-made gift, beautifully presented and
hand-made with love.
T: +44 (0)1745 826 500
www.katehh.co.uk
Berserks Glass Works
is a fusion of talented
artists and designers who
wholesale hand-crafted
fused glass gifts for the
home and garden from the
studio and workshops on
the glorious Dartington
Hall Estate in Devon. Due
to popular demand, 2013
has seen the launch of a
limited edition series of
fused glass wall art, adding
to an already extensive
collection, supplying an
ever-increasing number of
galleries, shops throughout
the UK, as well as The
National Trust.
T: +44 (0)1803 863 399
www.berserks.co.uk
flying the flag
Shearer Candles is deepening its British heritage with
a new collection created under license for the Victoria
and Albert Museum (V&A). The new V&A candle
range will be available this spring and summer and is
inspired by Arts and Crafts designer, Charles Annesley
Voysey (1857-1941). The range includes four fragrances
in candles and reed diffuser gifts – Angelica, Ebony,
Heliotrope and Rose Geranium.
T: +44 (0)141 445 1066
www.shearer-candles.com
Over the past 14 years, family-run jewellery business Carrie Elspeth has become
firmly established in the UK. All of Carrie’s designs are hand-made in Wales and the
company focuses on supporting the community. Carrie says: “Sometimes I find it hard
to believe that I’ve been in this business for 14 years now, and I still love it despite
the challenges. I know how fierce the competition is, and how tempting the cheaper
imports can appear in the face of tough times, but as our products are locally made
we can achieve an exceptionally high standard and quick turnaround and now
produce four new collections every year. This ethical focus on ‘hand-made in Wales’ is
the beating heart of our company.”
T: +44 (0)1446 771 271
www.carrieelspeth.com
Konesar specialises in the finest hand-crafted door wreaths, swags and gifts,
utilising natural ingredients including both dried fruit and flowers. The company
unveiled several new designs at Spring Fair. Shown here is an antique trug
filled with wheat, dried flowers and lavender. Also new is an antique trike with
helichrysum (straw flower), phalaris, lavender and preserved eucalyptus, and a
choice of various containers filled with preserved roses and leaves.
T: +44 (0)1306 712 149
www.konesar.com
The Silvery in Lewes, East Sussex is where Jules Ash creates
her individual jewellery collections, using the process of
electro-forming to envelope an array of natural objects in
layers of pure silver. Because the original object remains
inside the silver, no two pieces are ever identical and the
varied range of items used, from sea shells to acorns,
ensures many repeat buyers for this collectable range. All
items come with point of sale information and packaging.
T: +44 (0)1273 472 570
www.thesilvery.co.uk
22 giftfocus
flying the flag
The Flower Stork is proud to continue to hand-craft its award winning
range of baby clothes bouquets in the UK from British made baby
clothing. This ensures that each of its bouquets are as special as the baby
it’s intended for. A big focus for new baby gifts in 2013 will be classic
colourways with an emphasis on sugar pinks, baby blues and crisp whites.
Babies that share this special Royal baby year will be welcomed with
classic and traditional gifts with a modern twist.
T: +44 (0)1495 303 030
www.theflowerstork.com
Innovamill is
a family-run
business based
in mid-Wales,
specialising in the
photographic
gift business.
Innovamill has
a wide range
of items to add
photos to such
as calendars, key
rings and cards
as well as stylish
glass table mats,
wall art and polished acrylic blox. It also has a range of seasonal gifts
and is currently promoting its Christmas gifts which include a snow
dome, photo baubles and snow-filled acrylic blox. The company also
offers a floor-standing display unit for shops and garden centres.
T: +44 (0)1686 625 100
www.innovamill.com
24 giftfocus
Denby’s Heritage collection was inspired by its rich 200-year-old
design archives. Creating the feel of a modern country English
home, there are three tableware ranges called Pavilion, Veranda
and Orchard, all with the kitchen at their heart. Each one draws on
Denby’s historic shapes, glaze and decorative techniques.
Hand-crafted in Derbyshire, all three patterns have distinctive rustic
speckle glazes, featuring a golden rim on the edges and ridges of
plates with the option of beautifully accented patterns on a small
selection of pieces.
T: +44 (0)1773 740 899
www.denby.co.uk
JH Designpoint has designed a pair of Jane Austen commemorative
mugs for the bicentenary of Pride and Prejudice, one with silhouettes and
the other with cameos. The mugs feature different quotations from the
book and contemporary decoration.
T: +44 (0)141 339 4927
www.jhdesignpoint.net
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flying the flag
Jane Withers and Michael Hanmer at Janie Knitted Textiles
have been hand-making and creating an individual style
of contemporary craft-knitted product for 10 years. “It’s
exciting making new products, and the ever increasing
number of computer gadgets on the market have enabled
us to design new products too,” explained Jane. Geometric
patterns from the company’s latest range of knitted fabrics
are used to great effect in tablet and laptop pockets and
sleeves. You can see the full range at the British Craft Trade
Fair, Harrogate in April.
T: +44 (0)1909 480 163
www.janiewithers.co.uk
The Cornish Pixie Company has
a large range of gift signs with 300
sayings in a variety of colours. In its
12th year of producing hand-made
signs in Cornwall, 2013 marks its
new Glitter range and a new angle
on fairies. The sayings range from
the humorous to the insightful, plus
a really useful herb and vegetable
selection. The signs are priced from
85p, with no minimum order, plus
sale or exchange, free P&P and free display stands.
T: +44 (0)1288 321 751
www.thecornishpixiecompany.com
Rose & Co is a beautiful range of lotions, balms, bath mixtures and gift collections.
Founder and entrepreneur, Caroline Rose is a practising aromatherapist, who
develops the products with hand-picked, UK-sourced ingredients, professionally
blended essential oils and UK suppliers. All of the company’s products are proudly
made in the UK and always have been. Products are packaged in traditional tins,
bottles and boxes richly decorated, inspired by a love of all things vintage, romantic
and decadently elegant. The range appeals to all ages, as no one will be able to resist
the deliciously girly treats that epitomise pure femininity.
T: +44 (0)1827 280 080
www.graftons.co.uk
Melamaster continues to develop its tray and tablemat
range, adding 20 new designs for spring 2013 and
supporting British-based artists. Established more
than 40 years ago, Melamaster is the last remaining
decorative moulded melamine manufacturer in the
UK, offering a wide range of trays, dishes and chopping
boards complemented by decorative tableware.
Melamaster’s range includes a quality selection of
British-made melamine laminate place mats and
coasters, with the advantages of UK production giving
short lead times and low minimum orders including
own label bespoke production.
T: +44 (0)845 505 2808
www.melamaster.com
26 giftfocus
Inspired by the beauty of its pure beeswax candles,
Wood-Knit-Bee has launched a range of
British-made, hand-crafted wooden candlesticks
created in its Sussex workshop. The original
candlestick design, aptly named Sussex, adds a
modern twist to a traditional theme, providing
just the right level of refinement and elegance to
complement fine interiors from the latest
glass-walled penthouse to cottage-style retreats. Each
candlestick is individually turned by hand, and is made
from sustainable certified (FSC) oak producing a fine
natural finish.
T: +44 (0)1892 549 966
www.wood-knit-bee.com
Celebrating the past.
Craftmanship of the future.
Pavilion
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www.denby.co.uk
01773 740899
‡ The Cornish Pixie Company, now in its 12th year - Gives you
great value gift signs from 85p to £3.59 - Low cost - high profit
‡ There are more than 300 sayings on 14 different products in
various colours - A gift sign for everyone all year
‡ And no minimum order - YOU get the quantity YOU want
‡ There is also sale & exchange - Guaranteed no dead stock
‡ Plus free p&p - You pay nothing
‡ All with free display stands - more sales more profit
‡ And all handmade in sunny Cornwall - Great quality and
fast delivery
Get your catalogue and OFFER now at
[email protected]
Tel: 01288 321751
bctf
hands on
For all things hand-made, head to the British Craft Trade Fair
in April
If you want to buy individual, hand-made work
from the British Isles, then the British Craft
Trade Fair will offer you all the choice you
need. With hundreds of makers, a vast range
of products and prices starting at just a few
pounds, it’s well worth a visit.
Over the past 38 years, BCTF has been
home to thousands of British and Irish
designer-makers, and many of them have
gone on to establish themselves within the gift
industry. The show differs from other trade
fairs in that no mass-manufactured products
or those made overseas are allowed. Visitors
can be comforted that they will be presented
with a selection of the best hand-made British
giftware available from more than 500 talented
designers/makers.
The fair includes a dedicated Newcomers
Gallery where each year 72 new makers are
introduced to the trade. Only people who
have recently graduated from university or
college, and/or have been in business for less
than three years, are eligible for a stand in this
area of the exhibition.
A key trend this year looks set to be birds.
This spring will see a variation of products
that depict these beautiful creatures. Not only
embroidered or sewn onto textile products,
but also used in the decoration of ceramics,
glass, silverware, wood, sculpture, art etc.
The British Craft Trade Fair Awards will take
place after the show on Monday 8th April. Gift
Focus and sister publication Attire Accessories
are proud to be sponsoring the Best Gift
Product Award and Best Fashion Accessory
Award. Look out for details of the winners in
future issues of Gift Focus and Attire Accessories.
There is free parking right outside the venue,
and for visitors using public transport there is a
free shuttle service between the venue, Leeds
Bradford Airport and Harrogate train station.
For more information about the show and
to register to attend, visit www.bctf.co.uk
In brief
show
organiser
where
when
opening times
website
British Craft
Trade Fair
PSM Ltd
Great Yorkshire
Showground, Harrogate
7th - 9th April, 2013
Sunday 10am - 6pm,
Monday and Tuesday
10am - 5pm
www.bctf.co.uk
giftfocus 29
hands on
Exhibitor profiles
Swirly Arts
Stand N53
www.swirlyarts.com
Swirly Arts produces a collectable gift range
called The Cheeky Chicken. Available in a range
of different fabrics, no home should be without
at least one!
Hazel Atkinson
Stand 116
www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk
Hazel returns to the BCTF with a
completely fresh addition to her
highly successful Natural Selection
range. Hazel has caught the butterfly
bug and has produced a new range
incorporating butterflies in subtle blush
pink and grey and exotic fuchsia and
orange. Hazel and her team still work
completely independently from her
Nottingham studio, designing,
hand-painting, assembling and
distributing each individual item of
hand-made, anodised aluminium
jewellery. A free ring will be given with
every order placed at the BCTF.
Hadas Nussbaum
Stand 351
www.hadasart.co.uk
Hadas combines the traditional art of Millefiori with a contemporary modelling clay, creating
intricate designs on both her jewellery and homeware. Her beadwork is eye-catching and vivid,
as well as being light weight and very durable. Pictured is the Millefiori necklace.
Kate Hamilton-Hunter
Stand 332
www.katehh.co.uk
Kate will be showing her beautiful hand-made
jewellery at the show. Her first jewellery
designs were fashioned from old patterned
tins. Kate’s collections are now created from a
magpie selection of metals, which include silver,
aluminium and brass along with her treasured
biscuit, sweet and toffee tins. All of her jewellery
is finished to a high standard, using sterling silver
and Swarovski crystals and pearls.
30 giftfocus
NOA Jewellery
Stand 206
www.noajewellery.com
NOA’s jewellery is hand-crafted
in the company’s studio in Cardiff.
Ceramics of vibrant colours
framed in sterling silver, aluminium
or brass create magical jewellery
pieces that are truly different.
NOA’s jewellery is packaged in
specially designed presentation
boxes. A trade catalogue is
available on request.
bctf
CRM Ceramics
Stand 88
www.crmceramics.co.uk
Based in workshops
in Frome, Somerset,
Clare Mahoney takes
inspiration from her
fascination with the
natural world. Clare
produces a variety
of ceramic tiles and
touch stones.
Melanie Tomlinson
Stand 278
www.melanietomlinson.co.uk
Melanie works with illustration and metal
to create vibrant and detailed jewellery that
is wearable and affordable. Her designs are
printed onto sheet-tinned steel, and the striking
colour gives her work a jewel-like intensity.
Pictured are her jewellery butterflies.
Jan Beadle Textiles
Stand 289
www.janbeadletextiles.co.uk
Jan Beadle designs and makes
contemporary woven textiles for fashion
interiors, as well as a range of fashion
accessories. Much of her work involves
experimenting with different weave
structure to see how they distort when
manipulated and felted to create individual
pieces. Pictured above is a striking red and
grey scarf.
Abbot and Ellwood
Stand 346
www.abbotandellwood.com
Mike Abbot and Kim Ellwood find their
inspiration in the beautiful north coast of
West Penwith, which is claimed to be one
of the most spectacular pieces of coast in
the country. Here they produce a range
of clocks and jewellery which are unusual,
affordable and very saleable. Pictured is
their hand-painted trolley clocks.
Fiona Hutchinson
Stand 291
www.fionahutchinson.co.uk
Fiona Hutchinson will be launching her Spice
It Up range of hand-made jewellery. This silver,
gold and vermeil spice range makes the perfect
gifts for cooks. Pictured is a tactile silver nutmeg
strung on a necklace of peppercorns with
an individual clasp of a pear and peppercorn.
The range comprises cloves, cardamon pods,
eucalyptus seed heads, peppercorns, nutmegs
and pears. Items include rings, earrings,
necklaces and bracelets, with prices starting
from £20.
Borders Aromatics
Stand 261
www.bordersaromatics.co.uk
Based in the Scottish borders, the company
produces high quality candles and home
accessories using 100 per cent soy wax,
farmed on sustainable farms. None of the
fragrance oils or ingredients have been
tested on animals. The products have been
created with affordability in mind, without
compromising on quality, and they make a
popular gift product.
Once Upon a Time in the North
Stand 130
www.onceuponatimeinthenorth.com
Makers of fun and funky home accessories
that are hand-made in Cumbria. The company
makes a great range of brooches, scented
cushions and bags, and is regularly adding new
designs to its portfolio. g
giftfocus 31
candles & home fragrance
sweet aroma
Candles and home fragrances are a great line to stock as gifts for all sorts of
events throughout the year, from Mother’s Day and birthdays to anniversaries
and Christmas
The team at Shearer Candles loves natural wax. Its long burn time and wonderful
scents make it a great alternative to beeswax. All of the company’s natural wax
candles are hand-made at its Glasgow HQ. The natural wax collection is made
with ingredients using reusable resources like recycled glass and
environmentally-friendly paper packaging, and the wax is biodegradable. The
candles come in four fragrances – Orange & Geranium, Lavender & Lime,
Sandalwood Spice and Rosemary & Mint – as pillars and jars.
T: +44 (0)141 445 1066
www.shearer-candles.com
UK distributor Enesco has introduced three new fragrances
from Rosemoore Home Fragrance. Sandalwood & Cedar is a
warming oriental fragrance of sensual sandalwood, surrounded
by rich cedar and sweet amber, with delicate citrus and sweet
vanilla notes. In contrast, Pink Pomelo is a refreshing and light
fragrance of juicy pink grapefruit enhanced by zesty notes of
lemon rind and dewy fresh green leaves. Raspberry Coulis is
a vibrant red fruit fragrance bursting with fresh raspberries,
blackberries, redcurrants and woody musks. All three fragrances
are available in 12 home fragrance products, including reed
diffusers and refill oils, pot pourri, scented candles, scent sacks
and sachets, as well as wooden balls.
T: +44 (0)1228 404 022
www.enesco.co.uk
Kringle Candle Company, the upmarket US
candle maker led by Michael Kittredge III, the son
of Yankee Candle Founder Mike Kittredge II, builds
on its reputation for quality and outstanding ranges
with six new fragrance introductions for 2013. The
new fragrances are: Citrus and Sage, Peony, Royal
Cherries, Soothing Cinnamon, Sunflower Sunrise
and Tranquil Waters.
T: +44 (0)1473 736 011
www.kringlecandle.co.uk
With a wide selection of filled
tin and glass candles, and the
increasingly popular reed diffuser
range, Pintail Candles is sure
to have a product to suit every
individual and interior. The new
fragrances, Sweet Sicilian Lemon
and Jasmine & Sweet Cicely, are
already very popular and the Lake
District-inspired Flowers range is
perfect for spring with Bluebell and
Sweet Pea amongst the favourites.
The Dotty Hearts range has now
been updated for spring with new
colours and fragrances. More
best-sellers such as Grapefruit &
Green Tea and Cashmere & Silk
have been added to the company’s
reed diffuser range.
T: +44 (0)1539 559 007
www.pintailcandles.com
giftfocus 33
sweet aroma
Yankee Candle® is offering a new selection of refreshing floral and spring limited
edition candle gift sets. Featured in soft pink and green keepsake boxes, they
are perfect for customers searching for just the right gift for a loved one to
celebrate any occasion, including birthdays, anniversaries and more. Joining the
gift set collections for 2013 is Fragrance Mixology. Allowing customers to create
a personal home ambience, the set features six complementing fresh and floral
fragrances, which can blend together within the ceramic triple votive holder.
T: +44 (0)117 316 1200
www.yankeecandle.co.uk
Greenleaf fragrances can now be enjoyed as reed diffuser oils,
designed for quick absorption into reeds and offering
long-lasting fragrances that create a powerful scent throughout
the home at the same time as purifying the air. Heart of
the Country introduces a new range of reed diffusers and
catalytic diffuser lamps for 2013, specially designed to use
Greenleaf ’s carefully formulated oils. Vogel Frëi’s beautiful
diffuser collections include polished, mosaic, tinted and bubbled
glass, diffusing flowers and coloured reeds, ensuring there is
something to suit every home.
T: +44 (0)1543 481 612
www.heartofthecountryltd.co.uk
Ancient Wisdom has
introduced a range of
hand-made wooden
candlesticks. Finished with
metal candle cup inserts
for safety and style, the
candlesticks are
hand-carved from sustainable
Albesia wood. Each piece is
individually hand-painted to
a high standard and supplied
individually packaged and
bar coded.
T: +44 (0)114 272 9165
www.ancientwisdom.biz
The Historic Royal Palaces range
of home fragrances by Ashleigh &
Burwood has been developed after
an exclusive partnership with Historic
Royal Palaces, the independent charity
that looks after the Tower of London,
Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting
House, Kensington Palace and Kew
Palace. The scented reed diffusers and
hand-poured candles are all hand-made
in the UK, and the fragrances are: Rose
Garden, English Lavender, Citrus, Herb
Garden, Wisteria and Orange Blossom.
T: +44 (0)1932 267 060
www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk
Heyland & Whittle has a wide range
of candles and room fragrances. The
fragrant candles in a glass and tin are
a great touch of luxury for the home
and work space. They’re made from
pure soy wax, which produces a much
cleaner, more even burn, producing less
toxins as well as being environmentally
friendly. The company’s reed diffusers
have become the most popular
product within its room fragrance
range. A selection of eight fragrances in
100ml and 200ml diffuser bottles will
keep rooms smelling fresh all day, and
200ml refill bottles are also available.
T: +44 (0)1293 525 825
www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk
34 giftfocus
Auromira incense gift
boxes from Shared Earth
feature three carefully
selected combinations to
suit everyone – Spiritual,
Relaxing and Uplifting. All
of the scents are made
with aromatic roots,
herbs, flowers and natural
oils. Each set contains
three packs of incense,
three incense cones and a
mini ceramic plate.
T: +44 (0)1904 670 321
www.sharedearth.co.uk
sweet aroma
Best Kept Secrets has built on its 2012 success with a new product range for the
independent retail gift market. Three Lites is a new three candle themed pack, offering
great quality and a value gift for any occasion. Super 7’s, which launched in 2012, has
quickly become an award-winning and best-selling product for the candle specialist. It was
nominated for multiple trade show awards across the UK this spring and offers a 70-hour
burn time. The Three Lites range takes three tea lights and presents them in a beautiful
boxed set. Following the same theme as Super 7’s, Three Lites are available in Scottish,
Smoothie, Sparkling, Floral and Festive ranges.
T: +44 (0)1670 512 222
www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk
Available from The Fragrance Lounge, the Relish Collection (Paddywax) pays
homage to the trend of re-using vintage jars. This iconic vessel can be used for
anything, from creating chandeliers to storing everyday essentials. The company
has filled coloured tinted jars with signature fragrant blends. For spring 2013, the
collection has been extended to include a vintage bottle diffuser, available in three
new scents. The range won Best New Product – Wellbeing at Top Drawer 2013
for its on-trend colourway, delicious fragrances and the fact that the jars can be
reused for other purposes.
T: +44 (0)1829 730 028
www.thefragrancelounge.com
Heaven Scent began life 21 years ago, from humble
beginnings selling incense sticks to the public from a wheel
barrow. Thinking about other ways to fragrance the home
cleanly, Heaven Scent was the first company to develop a
natural plant wax candle range, using fine quality essential
and fragrance oils. Awareness of the environment drove
them to use recycled glass for the candles and plant waxes
from sustainable sources; the packaging is very minimal and
made from recycled material. This year, the company has
introduced the White Jasmine fragrance to add to its wide
and varied range of fragrances.
T: +44 (0)1225 868 788
www.heavenscent.co.uk
The Country Candle Company’s
portfolio features 12 collections of
candles in keepsake tins and glasses, as
well as six collections of reed diffusers.
The new lines that have been introduced
this year are designed, as always, to
maximise trade opportunities and
consumer appeal. The new Vintage Floral
collection is anticipated to be extremely
popular this year. Vintage Floral evokes
summery fragrances of days gone by, and
customers also have a keepsake tin after
the candle has burned. The complete
brochure is available on request by
E: [email protected].
T: +44 (0)844 915 0005
www.thecountrycandlecompany.com
Namaste’s new range of
incense and mini candle
sets have quickly become
one of the company’s
best selling collections.
The range includes three
beautifully packaged
incense gift sets that
come complete with
sticks, cones and holders, a hanging ceramic cone burner
with fragranced cones and a range of ceramic fragranced
mini candles. In addition, there are intricate flower tea lights
and assorted colour floating candles in a coconut shell.
Namaste is a fair trade importer recognised by BAFTS
(British Association for Fair Trade Shops).
T: +44 (0)1756 700 790
www.namaste-uk.com
36 giftfocus
sweet aroma
Xystos, whose flame and fragrance offering includes WoodWick, Ribbonwick, Trapp
and Norfolk Lavender, unveiled a top American brand at Spring Fair. Designed to
convey a timeless sense of luxury, these ranges from the Aquiesse collection of
Aesthetic Scents™ will be in UK shops in April. They include the Black Currents
and White Currents lines, featuring travel tin candles, gift boxed candles and reed
diffuser gift sets with stylish toppers. The popular Portfolio collection features
eight scents – Luxe Linen, Pink Peony, Shoreline, Boardwalk, French Oak Currant,
Cherimoya, Sandalwood Vanille and Passionfruit & Citrus.
T: +44 (0)191 499 1570
www.xystostrade.co.uk
Wood-Knit-Bee’s 100 per cent pure beeswax
candles are ideal for accessorising the home.
Wood-Knit-Bee specialises in seeking out natural
products from ethical and sustainable sources.
Its extensive range of more than 75 different
beeswax candle designs runs from large statement
pillars to the finest dinner candles and everything
in-between. The original renewable fuel, said to
burn with light in the same spectrum as the sun,
is a favourite with candle lovers who appreciate a
longer burn that is smoke-free, naturally scented
and drip-free. Beeswax candles are free from
harmful and irritating allergens and are even said to
produce negative ions as they burn.
T: +44 (0)1892 549 966
www.wood-knit-bee.com
Bolsius unveiled its new autumn and winter
ranges at Spring Fair. The muted colour palette
of the new Mansion Moments picks up on the
misty tones of the autumn countryside, while
Fairy Fantasy reflects the crisp blue, white
and silver of a winter’s day. Both ranges work
in harmony with the strong colours of new
seasonally inspired metallic rustic candles and
the existing Aromatic range, creating numerous
mix and match options. The new Christmas Fairy
Fantasy range (pictured) includes decorated
glasses featuring images from nature and graphics
of snowflakes and reindeer also on the Magic
Ceramic see-through tea light holders. Colourful
Cups and rustic candles coordinate in the colour
palette of silver, white, light and dark blue.
T: +44 (0)800 169 5126
www.bolsius.com
38 giftfocus
Coleshill Design’s Luminara flameless candles feature
an attractive flame-effect candle that can be placed
anywhere without the worry or risks associated with
real candles. Luminara is a wax candle with a
five-hour automatic timer that turns off the candle after
five hours and on again at the same time everyday
thereafter. The candles run on two standard AA
batteries, giving an average battery life of 100 hours,
and are available in three sizes –3in, 5in and 7in – and
three colours of red, ivory and green.
T: +44 (0)845 505 2808
www.coleshilldesign.com
Pairfum’s Snow Crystal Candle adds a touch of elegance
to home interiors. The candle is made from 100 per cent
biodegradable and natural wax (CO2 neutral) and has
its own individual crystal structure in the wax. The Snow
Crystal wax releases four times as much perfume as a soy
wax candle, and the perfumes are made using essential
oils. The candle is ideally suited as a travel candle, due
to the high melt-point of the wax (it doesn’t run at 55
degrees) and the robustness of the tin.
T: +44 (0)1784 473 523
www.pairfum.com
)RUQHZDFFRXQWHQTXLULHVDQGWUDGHFDWDORJXHUHTXHVWVHPDLOLQIR#ZRRGNQLWEHHFRP
+
+
+
+and the winner is...+
Highlights from The Giftware Association’s 2013 Gift of the Year Awards
Companies that entered The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year competition for the first time emerged as winners of almost half the
categories at the 2013 awards ceremony, including The Judge’s Choice prize sponsored by Spring Fair
International. The event took place at Spring Fair at the NEC, Birmingham on Sunday 3rd February, 2013.
KITCHEN AND DINING,
sponsored by Autumn Fair International
Winner: Birdy Ceramics range,
Cubic Products
Highly commended: Tea Towels and
Gauntlets, Morrigan
Highly commended: Ecologie,
Gift Republic
THE JUDGES’
CHOICE,
sponsored by Spring
Fair International
Winner: Birdy
Ceramics range,
Cubic Products
As part of the prize,
the company will
aalso be given a free
sstand at Autumn
Fair International by
tthe competition’s
headline sponsor,
i2i Events Group,
organisers of Spring
o
Fair and Autumn Fair.
BRANDED/CHARACTER,
sponsored by The GA’s Legal Helpline
Steeles Law
Winner: Tetris Light,
Paladone Products
Highly commended: EAMES Office
4-Cup Espresso Gift Set, Whitbread
Wilkinson/W2 Products
Highly commended: Cadbury
Wrapper Storage Tin, Half Moon Bay
GA Copywatch
Winner: Silly Socks, Bluw
Highly commended: Secret Agent alarm
clock, thumbsUp!
Highly commended: Bubble Wrap Costume,
thumbsUp!
KIDS, sponsored by
COLLECT IT, sponsored by
GA Costwatch
Winner: Mr Ringneck Pheasant,
Dora Designs
Highly commended: Old Tupton Ware
Seaside collection, Widdop Bingham
Highly commended: Jubilee Gifts, The
Original Metal Box Company
ECO FRIENDLY,
sponsored by TH March
Winner: Animal Felt
Slippers, Sew Heart Felt
Highly commended: FSC
Certified Beech Honer
Board, T&G Woodware
Highly commended:
Penrose Alpaca Pillow,
Penrose Products
BODY, MIND AND SOUL, sponsored
by Giles Healthcare
Winner: Apple Shaped Soap, Ottoman Scent Co
Highly commended: English Garden collection,
beefayre
Highly commended: Waggledance Happy
collection, beefayre
40 giftfocus
HOT NOVELTY, sponsored by
Ravensden
Winner: London Underground
Children’s Play Tent, The
Monster Factory
Highly commended: 24 Sleeps
til Christmas personalised
book, Signature Gifts
Highly commended: Be
Safe + Be Seen – Reflective
Accessories, Cari and Co
FASHION
JEWELLERY
AND
ACCESSORIES,
sponsored by The Assay
Office Birmingham
Winner: Zip earphones,
thumbsUp!
Highly commended:
Why Not collection,
Disaster Designs
Highly commended:
VW Washbags, The
Monster Factory
xxxx
xxxx
gift
of the
year
+
+
HOME ACCESSORIES, sponsored
by Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide
Winner: The Bath Map Cushion,
My Place Maps
Highly commended: Kakkoii WOW
Speaker, Kakkoii
Highly commended: iTap, thumbsUp!
UNDER £10
Winner: Scrabble keyrings, Wild and Wolf
Highly commended: Penguin Popper,
Cheatwell Gifts & Games
Highly commended: Recipe Mugs, Bluw
OCCASIONS
Winner: Decadent Decs, Talking Tables
Highly commended: Sunshine Bouquet,
Say it Personally
Highly commended: Wedding favours,
Heyland & Whittle
STATIONERY, sponsored by the NEC
Winner: Snap Sticks Photo Album, Wrap Artists
Highly commended: Horrible Histories Giftware
Collection, Elgate Products
Highly commended: The Story of Me and My…
Life Canvas, Parragon Books
GARDEN AND OUTDOOR
LIVING, sponsored by Melville
Exhibition Services
Winner: Matthew Rice large deep garden
tray with handles, Elite Gift Boxes
Highly commended: Garden Tin for Her,
giftinatin
Highly commended: London Underground
children’s play tent, The Monster Factory
GIFTS FOR MEN
CARD AND WRAP
Winner: Grandson’s 1st Birthday Noah’s Ark card,
Hallmark Cards
Highly commended: Goose Greeting Cards,
Cards for Art’s Sake
Highly commended: Twinkle Twinkle Birthday
Cards, Tranquil Space Designs
Winner: Ted Baker Stag and Brogue
collection, Wild and Wolf
Highly commended: Dual SIM Case for
iPhone 4, thumbsUp!
Highly commended: e-Kitch Cocktail Gift
Set with 1,600+ Recipe Database,
Creative 7
PREMIUM/LUXURY
Winner: Penrose Alpaca Pillow, Penrose Products
Highly commended: Looking Good, Thabto
Highly commended: Hand Painted Finest Bone China Bowls,
CHH Design
MADE IN UK
Winner: Typography for Tables – table mats
and coasters, Bluebell 33
Highly commended, Made in England
collection, Wax Lyrical (Wax Lyrical)
Highly commended, Calverts Guide to the
British, that company called IF
For more details about the awards
and The GA, visit www.ga-uk.org
giftfocus 41
Alljoy Design, www.alljoydesign.com
greetings!
Progressive Greetings Live, the UK’s only trade exhibition for
the greetings card industry, rolls into town in May
Retailers large and small and distributors from
all over the world will flock to Progressive
Greetings Live in May, the UK’s only trade
exhibition dedicated to the greetings card
industry. Building on the show’s success since
its inception in 2009, PG Live 2013 brings
everyone who’s anyone in the world of
greeting cards together under one roof for a
relaxed two day show.
The fifth show will feature a mix of greetings
card publishers, from the largest to the smallest
and from the oldest to the newest, along with
some select calendar, gift wrapping and gift
products suppliers.
PG Live attracts strong export and overseas
support, with representation from countries as
far flung as Pakistan and South Africa, as well
as from Europe, America and Australasia, with
France, Australia, the Netherlands and Sweden
leading the field in terms of the show's
international visitor numbers.
The Springboard section, which fanfares
new and emerging publishers, has proved to
be a vital element of the show, and last year
DIAL@PG Live and a special Artists’ Quarter
42 giftfocus
were added to the mix. DIAL – which stands
for Designs, Imagery & Art Licensing – aims to
shine a spotlight on the thousands of original
designs, illustrations and creative properties
available through the show, many of which are
available to buy or license. The Artists’ Quarter
features a group of artists and designers
presenting their portfolios.
International visitors are well-catered for
at PG Live. All international visitors will have
access to free private meeting rooms, which
are available to book between 9.30am and
5.30pm, on a first come first served basis. The
rooms can be booked for one hour at a time
and hold up to 10 people comfortably. The
show’s Henry Cole Club Lounge, designed for
the exclusive use of buyers, will be open for
international visitors on set up day.
Complimentary light refreshments, including
a sandwich lunch, will be served throughout
set-up day to buyers and their guests. The
lounge will also offer free wifi internet access.
A drinks reception will take place on the
evening of Monday 13th May, where visitors can
meet with the UK’s key export representatives
show
where
Progressive Greetings Live
Business Design Centre,
Islington, London
when
14th - 15th May, 2013
website www.progressivegreetingslive.com
twitter @PGLiveLondon
and collect their copy of the show catalogue.
For more information and to register to
attend, visit www.progressivegreetingslive.com g
stay ahead
Keep abreast of the latest in the gifting market at the world’s
largest gift event, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair
In brief
show
organiser
where
when
opening times
website
Hong Kong Gifts &
Premium Fair
HKTDC
Hong Kong
Convention and
Exhibition Centre
27th - 30th April, 2013
9.30am - 6.30pm and
9.30am - 5pm
on Tuesday
www.hktdc.com
The Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair is the
largest event of its kind in the world. The
2012 edition was visited by more than 47,000
international buyers, keen to access the latest
products and assess the hottest global trends
in the industry.
Business opportunities a plenty
The fair brings the world to Hong Kong.
Thousands of exhibitors from dozens of
countries will display the latest gift and
premium items, providing a one-stop shop
44 giftfocus
for buyers’ needs for the coming season. In
addition, business networking opportunities
are endless and business matching services put
suppliers in touch with buyers to enable the
latter to open new markets.
Assess the latest
The bustling fairground provides a contextual
overview for buyers to identify the latest
product and business trends, while a series
of topical seminars allow visitors to absorb
up-to-date industry information and the latest
market intelligence.
assistance in sourcing products in specific
segments. These zones include Luxury Gifts
(new), Baby Gifts (new), iAccessories, Hall of
Fine Designs, Green Gifts, Tech Gifts and World
of Gift Ideas. There is also a Small Order
Zone, featuring high quality products from
trustworthy and reliable suppliers.
Organisation and services
Logical clustering of exhibitors enables buyers
to quickly and efficiently locate the suppliers
that best suit their requirements. Quality
business support services, including accounting
and advisory services, corporate services,
business solutions, logistics, foreign exchange,
e-business services and marketing services, are
readily available at the venue to help make the
visit a positive and productive experience.
Small gifts talent on show
The Hong Kong Smart Gifts Design Award
shines a light on the latest and most original
ideas from talented designers. Make sure you
check out the display of winning products
while at the fair. The competition – the first of
its kind in Hong Kong stepping into its second
edition – is organised by The Hong Kong
Exporters’ Association. It provides a superb
global showcase for the brightest and best of
Hong Kong’s pioneering gift companies and
design students.
Gifts by zone
The fair’s specialised themed zones provide
For more information and to register for the
show, visit www.hktdc.com g
6WDQGRXWIURPWKHFURZG
Since 1922 Nutscene have been producing fine quality twines in
Scotland. Renowned to both gardeners and crafters, Nutscene offers
a large and colourful range of bio-degradable jute twines and garden
giftware. Our design-led range of giftware is developed in-house and
utilises natural materials such as jute, FSC wood, British slate and English
terracotta. Nutscene is also the home of the iconic Sheila Maid ®
ceiling clothes airer.
Contact us for our Trade Catalogue
www.nutscene.com
[email protected]
+44(0)1307 468589
Nutscene (1922) Ltd
,QQRYDWLYH+DQGPDGH*ODVVZDUH
IRUDOO*DUGHQ/RYHUV
*D]LQJ*OREHV3ODQW:DWHUHUV7HD/LJKW
+ROGHUV/LJKW&DWFKHUV7UHHRI/LIH%DOOV
%LUG7DEOHVDQGPXFKPRUH
'-*ODVVZDUH
ZZZGDQGMJODVVZDUHFRXN7HO
green-fingered
As spring arrives and the garden comes back to life, we
bring you a mix of gifts for green-fingered enthusiasts
More and more people are taking an interest in gardening, with an
upsurge in people wanting to grow their own fruit and vegetables. Stock
up on gardening gifts for the summer months ahead.
Cherry Picked For
You is offering its
Botanical Alphabet
range as a spinner
package. Small
75mm x 85mm
cards are sold as
part of a package
that includes a
tabletop 32 pocket
spinner. With 12
cards per pocket,
the offer will
include the full 26
card alphabet plus your choice of six other cards from a selection
of designs (including Christmas and various ages). Cards are also
available in 125mm x 125mm sizes, and can be sold in packs of less
than six.
T: +44 (0)1273 721 353
www.cherrypickedforyou.co.uk
Enesco is offering a novel idea for all gardening and bird enthusiasts –
novelty bird boxes. They can be used to brighten up a garden or deck, or
can even be used indoors. Simply put them in a place where our feathered
friends can enjoy them.
T: +44 (0)1228 404 022
www.enesco.co.uk
Nutscene Twines get
bigger, brighter and
bolder! There are now
12 colours to choose
from in Nutscene’s jute
twines. They are still
wound on the same
machinery used in
Angus, Scotland since
1922. The twines are
biodegradable and all
materials used are from
sustainable resources.
Nutscene offers a wide
selection of gifts for
gardeners, utilising its
twines, FSC wooden
plant labels, seed
trays made from recycled wood, English terracotta, hessian sacks, a UK
produced body care range for gardeners and colourful raffia.
T: +44 (0)1307 468 589
www.nutscene.com
For spring/summer, Retreat Home has expanded its popular range in
galvanised steel. Embossed with hearts of leaves and flowers, and fully
watertight, the range is both pretty and practical. It includes a set of
handled planters, jugs and flower pots – perfect gifts for both indoor
and outdoor gardeners.
T: +44 (0)870 803 3428
www.retreat-home.com
46 giftfocus
gifts
forxxx
gardeners
xxxxx
Garden Party from Think Pink is a collection of gifts and accessories for the garden and
conservatory. Based on a traditional paper cut design, the range includes gifts such as a gardener’s
mug that features a lid to
keep bugs out and a stylish
gardening journal. Also in
the range is a wipe clean
kneeling pad and garden
table cloth. In total there
are 12 items in the range to
choose from.
T: +44 (0)1253 831 508
www.thinkpinkblue2.com
These new Diamond Light Catchers from D &
J Glassware will add the perfect finishing touch
for relaxing and enjoying the garden.
Hand-crafted from mouth-blown glass, the
colours are stunning. The Diamonds look great
hanging in trees and pergolas, whether the sun
is shining or not!
T: +44 (0)1953 483 516
www.dandjglassware.co.uk
Both men and women will appreciate these
mugs from Lesser & Pavey, which bring fun
to the gardening world. These fine china mugs
are practical, as well as being fun gifts with an
affordable price tag.
T: +44 (0)1322 279 225
www.leonardo.co.uk
Ragged Rose has a number
of attractive floral ranges,
including these gardening
gloves and kneeling pad. The
Glenda garden gloves are
made from 100 per cent
cotton and are fully lined
and machine washable.
T: +44 (0)1622 812 897
www.raggedrose.com
Puckator has been working feverishly on
its garden range for spring 2013. Included
in the collection are these two gifts for
any keen gardener. The melamine tray and
double walled ceramic mug have been
exclusively designed by in-house designer
Ted Smith, and will make sure any gardener
has their drinks hot and their sandwiches
served in style.
T: +44 (0)800 011 6969
www.puckator.co.uk
Wild and Wolf’s Orla Kiely gift range is
ideal for green-fingered friends. Items
include a pair of gardening gloves,
gardening apron, watering can, herb pots
and two flasks. The items retail between
£14.95 - £44.95.
T:+44 (0)1225 789 909
www.wildandwolf.com
Half Moon Bay’s new Truth About Mums &
Dads collection is perfect for customers looking
for a funny gift for gardeners. These quirky
products have been designed with those shed
loving Dads in mind!
T: +44 (0)1225 473 873
www.halfmoonbay.co.uk
giftfocus 47
father’s
er’s day
man of the house
The time of year when dad gets to be the centre of
attention is fast approaching! Stock up on Father’s
Day essentials and cash in on this important event
Wild and Wolf has a vast range of gifts for Father’s Day, including
the Gentlemen’s Hardware range. Items include this shoe shine set,
complete with brushes to buff and shine, black and neutral polish,
and a cleaning cloth. The set is presented in a felt zip-up case.
T:+44 (0)1225 789 909
www.wildandwolf.com
Enesco’s vibrant gift and kitchenware collection
celebrates one of the nation’s best-loved British
heritage brands, Bovril. New additions launched
this year include an oven glove, apron and tea
towel, all featuring the iconic Bovril branding
imagery against a bright red background, ideal
for a man who loves the kitchen.
T: +44 (0)1228 404 022
www.enesco.co.uk
Half Moon Bay has a range of gifts for all
those superheroes out there. Brand new
for 2013 is the Superman collection, which
includes a weekend bag, retro bag, water
bottle, bowl and more.
T: +44 (0)1225 473 873
www.halfmoonbay.co.uk
Lesser & Pavey’s range of Words of Wisdom
mugs captures those poignant moments of
fatherly advice perfectly, and what better occasion
to celebrate with a fine china mug than Father’s
Day. The range continues to be successful, and
expands for 2013 into new areas. This gift-boxed
duo of a mug and money box shown here brings
fun and practicality to this special day.
T: +44 (0)1322 279 225
www.leonardo.co.uk
Artscape has increased its range
of humorous aprons to include
more titles ideal for dads and
Father’s Day. New titles include
No. 1 Dad, Never Say Diet, I’m the
Daddy and Grumpy Old Git! With
35 designs to choose from, what
more can a man wish for – socks
of course! The company also has
No. 1 Dad and World’s Best Dad
socks, as well as a World’s Best
Grandad design.
T: +44 (0)20 8681 8368
www.artscapeonline.com
Whether dad
is the cool or
comfy type, there
is something
for everyone
in Midhaven’s
Tribal Steel range
of leather and
stainless steel. With
more than 200 styles to choose from in leather
and 50 in the metal, customers really will be spoilt
for choice! There are five different sizes for men,
and as the perfect finishing touch, all lines come in
stylish branded pouches. Spend £200 and receive
a free point of sale display.
T: +44 (0)1299 851 513
www.midhaven.co.uk
giftfocus 49
man of the house
Retreat Home has a fun collection of
accessories for Father’s Day, inspired by
comic book superheroes. Items include
fully waterproof-lined toiletry bags,
practical kit bags for the gym, specs cases
and keyrings. Simple, bold and colourful,
they combine fun and practicality.
T: +44 (0)870 803 3428
www.retreat-home.com
Puckator has broken the mould and come up
with some original presents for all the quirky
dads out there. From its exclusive moustache
mug to the Man-I Care men’s manicure set,
the company has something for everyone. Visit
Puckator’s website to see all of its Father’s Day
gift ideas.
T: +44 (0)800 011 6969
This fine silver-plated photo
frame with football motif from
All Personal Gifts comes in a
quality presentation box and
is ideal for 6in x 4in photos.
All Personal Gifts provides
a comprehensive range of
silver-plated gifts, which can
be engraved for that personal
touch. In addition to the silver
plated range, the company
offers top quality metal products
to suit all tastes and budgets.
T: +44 (0)800 030 2345
www.allpersonalgifts.co.uk
IF has a number of products for dads,
including this retro range of Cartoon
Classics mini bookmarks (RRP £2.99).
Batman, Superman, Scooby Doo, Tom
and Jerry, Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck
all feature in these three sets of little
magnetic page markers. Other items
include the Sshhhh! range of ear plugs
(RRP £6.99) for the ultimate in peace
and quiet, and Calvert’s Guide to the
British (RRP £20).
T: +44 (0)1751 475 757
www.thatcompanycalledif.com
50 giftfocus
Personalised Memento Company has
launched its boldest Father’s Day range to
date. This contemporary He Is range displays
the words your customers sometimes find
hard to say, from Awesome, Amazing, Cool and
A Superhero. The collection makes a quirky
addition to the company’s extensive Father’s
Day offerings, which include mugs, crystal
blocks, phone cases and more.
T: +44 (0)1782 744 900
www.personalisedmemento.co.uk
Joe Davies offers a wide variety of gifts
for dads and grandads, ranging from mugs,
pens, torches and tankards to hip flasks,
photo frames and wine bottle holders.
Brand new for 2013 is the Equilibrium for
Men series of bracelets, necklaces and cuff
links in leather and stainless steel. Retail
prices start from just £4.99 and the series
is presented in attractive Equilibrium boxes
to impress.
T: +44 (0)161 975 6300
www.joedavies.co.uk
-H[OLY­Z+H`
Catch up with all the latest from the world of licensing
hot property
Worlds Apart makes
bedtime a dream with
GO GLOW®
With new products and licenses launching
this summer for Worlds Apart’s GO
GLOW® range, children will be spoilt for
choice when it comes to selecting their
trusty bedtime buddy.
Designed to look like favourite super
heroes, the new multifunctional GO
GLOW® Hero is a three-in-one motion
activated room guard, voice recorder and
torch. Children can hang the Hero on
their door handle and know it will guard
their bedroom against sneaky invaders.
As well as being fun to play with, the
GO GLOW® Pal is a great bedtime companion. With light-up eyes and removable Sai swords, the
Raphael GO GLOW® Pal (from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) is a new addition to the existing
range of Pals. It also acts as a night light, gently glowing to give children comfort and security as
they drift off to sleep.
For more information, visit www.worldsapart.com
New licensing deals for
Star Cutouts
Star Cutouts, specialists in life size
character cut outs and celebrity face
masks, has agreed a number of new
licenses. These include Peppa Pig, The
Avengers, Judge Dredd, Justin Bieber and
The Chippendales. Star Cutouts will
be launching many more throughout
2013, with new licenses from some of
the biggest names in graphic novels and
movie history.
To view the full range, visit
www.starcutouts.com
The RSPCA announces My Pocket Pets
The RSPCA has awarded a license to toy design and production
company, WOW Toys, to produce a range of toys for the
pre-school market. Called My Pocket Pets, they are a set of cute
collectable RSPCA animal figure packs suitable for children aged
18 months and upwards.
Each pack contains an animal figure and RSPCA activity sheet
that includes fun activities such as dot-to-dot games, colouring in, a
cartoon and an information section aimed at teaching pre-school
children about animal welfare. There are six animals in the series:
Pippi the pooch, Socks the cat, Clarissa the cow, Patch the pig,
Wiggles the Dalmatian and Jenny the horse.
To find out more, visit www.wowtoys.com
Heroes in a half-shell from LEGO®
The ultimate amphibious ninja team has been immortalised into brick
form with the all-new LEGO® Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles range. There
are five sets available: Shellraiser Street Chase, Turtle Lair Attack, Stealth
Shell in Pursuit, Shredder’s Dragon Bike and Kraang Lab Escape. The
range is available for ages six and above and is available now. For more
information about LEGO® and its ranges, visit www.lego.com
52 giftfocus
hot property
Toy Pokémon range set for launch
Having secured the Master Toy License for the next five years,
TOMY’s Pokémon range is ready to do battle with the toy
arena. TOMY is set to present the first themed toys based on
the video games sequels, Pokémon Black 2 and Pokémon White
2. Including new figures with solid bodies and incredible levels
of authenticity and detail, the new 2013 range takes collecting,
training and battling to a new level.
Visit www.tomy.co.uk for more information.
New DVD board
game for Doctor
Who’s 50th
anniversary
To celebrate the 50th
anniversary of the world’s
longest running sci-fi television series, Paul Lamond Games is launching
a new Doctor Who DVD board game.
The DVD board game, which launches this summer, contains more
than 100 clips taken from each of the five decades of this iconic TV series,
alongside thousands of trivia questions. The questions are graded from
simple observations to expert knowledge, making the game great fun for
all the family.
Visit www.paul-lamond.com for more details.
HTI signs deal for new collection of Barbie
role-play toys
Following a multi-territory deal with Mattel Consumer Products, HTI is offering a
new range of Barbie & Me role-play toys. Each set includes an innovative Barbie
& Me element that enables girls to involve their Barbie doll in the experience.
The range is designed around two universally popular role-play themes of
doll’icious food preparation and glamtastic glam-up. Launching in autumn 2013,
the collection will be supported by a substantial TV advertising campaign.
Pictured is the Doll’icious Barbie & Me Coffee ‘n’ Smoothie Shop.
For more information, visit www.htigroup.co.uk
New licensees signed for The
Snowman and The Snowdog
Poeticgem tees up with new Wallace
& Gromit range
Licensed clothing specialist Poeticgem has entered a
new agreement to produce T-shirts and nightwear based
around Wallace & Gromit.
“We are delighted to have signed an agreement
for what is a quintessentially British brand,” says Elliot
Matthews of Poeticgem. “Wallace and Gromit are two of
the greatest characters ever to come out of the UK, and
that means we will be tapping into a very large and very
well-established fan base with this new apparel range.”
The Copyrights Group has announced a raft of
new licenses for 2013. New products featuring The
Snowman and The Snowdog are set to launch this year
and include: Ravensburger for puzzles, Transcontinental
for Christmas decorations, Blueprint for stationery
and bags, and a major partnership with Thorntons for
confectionery. Also new is a healthcare range from
Oscar and Dehn, cards and wrap from Hallmark, plush
from Steiff, as well as craft and play products from SAC
Games. Retailers can look forward to refreshed and
expanded ranges from existing licensees.
For more details, visit www.copyrights.co.uk
giftfocus 53
let’s party!
Get the party started in store with these
decorative delights
From birthday parties to baby showers, the party market is booming
and is a great line to stock in store. We bring you a mix of ideas for
those celebration loving consumers.
Neviti launched two new
ranges at Spring Fair. Its
first licensed range, Dear
Zoo, is based on the
best-selling children’s
book by Rod Campbell
and includes delightful
paper disposables,
including plates, napkins,
party bags, lunch boxes
and cake cases for
pre-schooler birthday
parties. All items feature
hand-drawn and coloured
images, which Rod has
developed specifically for
the range.
The second line, Keep
Calm and Party On,
includes plates, napkins,
cups and bowls for
entertaining and parties,
as well as fun Keep Calm
You’re Only 30, 40 or 50 bunting. The range features bright jewel
colours in keeping with current trends.
T: +44 (0)845 638 1358
www.neviti.com
Boxer Gifts has introduced a new
range of fun party coasters. Sure
to liven up any celebration, these
brightly coloured drink mats feature
ages from 18 - 60 as well as the
wording Happy Birthday and Happy
Birthday - It’s A Big Number - So
Have A Big Day! Each box is packed
with 16 assorted colours, adding
to the already extensive range of
party gifts and accessories offered
by Boxer. Other ideas include Tallulah Chic glassware, Rainbow Moments
colour flame party candles and the exclusive French Lace champagne
flute range, available in clear and black glass.
T: +44 (0)113 3955 595
www.boxergifts.com
54 giftfocus
Pop Art Superhero Party is a new range of fun and versatile party
items from Ginger Ray. This vibrant range can be used for nostalgic
adult’s birthday parties as well as for children’s superhero events. Items
include paper plates and cups, napkins, cupcake toppers and cases,
bunting, photo booth props and masks, birthday cake toppers and
popcorn boxes.
T: +44 (0)845 680 2975
www.gingerray.com
January saw the launch of
a new company offering
friends and families of
mums-to-be a range of
stationery and partyware
for baby showers. The
Blooming Baby Showers
range includes invitations,
thank you cards, paper
plates, napkins, balloons and
bunting in three designs:
Posh Prams, Bees and Birds
and Cute Kit. The company
has also come up with the
vital ingredient to any party, entertainment! A box of games includes
Bonnie Babies, Miniature Bingo, Blooming Bump, Tiny Stars, Funny Faces
and Pin the Dummy on the Bunny.
T: +44 (0)7598 001 793
www.bloomingbabyshowers.co.uk
Ancient Wisdom has a
wide selection of profitable
party stock, including hats
and masquerade masks. The
hats come in various designs,
ranging from sparkly cow girl
to kids pirate hats. Wholesale
prices start from just 38p
per hat. The selection of masquerade party masks includes male,
female, children and unisex designs.
T: +44 (0)114 272 9165
www.ancientwisdom.biz
novelty
women’s
xxxxx
xxx
jewellery
finishing touches
2013 is seeing a wealth of attractive jewellery designs revealed
Stocking a selection of jewellery pieces can help attract extra sales, especially when displayed
alongside handbags, shoes, belts and scarves for a complete look. With people still watching their
pennies, jewellery can be a great way of changing the look of existing outfits and is a cheaper
alternative to buying a whole new wardrobe!
Hazel Atkinson’s beautifully hand-crafted
jewellery is the very essence of femininity,
contrasting vivid colours with delicate
patterning. This season, Hazel has launched
a new butterfly range, using this ancient
symbol of love to herald in the spring and
summer. Hazel’s timeless jewellery is worn
by all generations of women, from teenagers
to grandmothers.
T: +44 (0)115 9411 110
www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk
In these difficult economic times, Xystos
continues to offer customers as much value
as possible. The company recently took
over the UK distribution of Annaleece,
the Cystallized with Swarovski range from
America. Based on historical best sellers,
Xystos offers 155 products – bracelets,
earrings, brooches and necklaces – each
coming with a free gift box. More added
value comes in the shape of its precious
metal platings of 22k gold, rhodium and
ruthenium, which means the pieces won’t
tarnish over time.
T: +44 (0)191 499 1570
www.xystostrade.co.uk
One of the latest ranges by Kate HamiltonHunter is the Hearts collection. All of Kate’s
jewellery pieces are made by hand from a variety
of metals, including silver, aluminium and brass, as
well as biscuit, sweet and toffee tins. Pieces include
sterling silver and are finished off with Swarovski
crystals and pearls.
T: +44 (0)1745 826 500
www.katehh.co.uk
The Harmony collection from Miss Milly is
a beautiful, contemporary combination of
natural stones and pearls, combined with
man-made stainless steel and glass. The
stones are individually selected and each
piece is hand-crafted to the highest quality.
The Harmony 1 necklace and bracelet
introduce colour through dyed jade, off-set
with accents of shiny stainless steel. Other
jewellery in the range is crafted with agate,
cubic zirconia, Brazilian crystal, pearlescent
rose quartz and freshwater potato pearls.
Where possible, each piece of jewellery
includes a Miss Milly engraved stainless steel
brand tag.
T: +44 (0)1905 612 955
www.missmilly.co.uk
Vizati is launching a new collection of
extremely affordable designer sterling
silver jewellery sets with genuine rubies,
blue sapphires, tanzanites and emeralds.
The whole range costs from as little as £6
to a maximum price of £19, and is made
in a variety of finishes, from shiny silver
to matt and satin. Designs range from the
more traditional, such as hearts and stars,
to the highly contemporary.
T: +44 (0)1323 485 605
www.vizati.com
giftfocus 57
finishing touches
Joe Davies reports increasing
sales of its best-selling Equilibrium
collection of fashion jewellery,
which has doubled in size over
the last year. As well as the top
selling sentiment, white silver and
hematite jewellery collection,
Shamballa-related items are also
particularly strong at the moment.
Joe Davies introduced more
than 50 new bracelets, necklaces and earrings at Spring Fair in line with this popular trend.
Everything from Joe Davies’ gift and jewellery collection is available to independent retailers in
sensible quantities and minimum orders are just £100.
T: +44 (0)161 975 6300
www.joedavies.co.uk
CXD Designs is pleased to showcase its range
of crystal macramé bracelets. Made from high
quality beads and crystals, two different wrist
sizes are available for the teenage and kids
market. Visit the company’s website for more
teenage jewellery and gifts.
T: +44 (0)1702 300 907
www.cxddesigns.co.uk
Talbot Fashions unveiled its new 2013
range at Spring Fair. Pearls, animal
themes, crystal embellished skulls and
sideways cross jewellery are continuing
as major themes for this year. Talbot has
added new variations to the fast-selling
wooden icon bracelets with a dragon and
cross design in black and white. Animal
themes include enamel pendants with
fish, elephant, duck and butterfly designs
in various colours. A funky printed
giraffe, zebra, elephant and gecko have
also been added. Shell chip stretch and
multi-charm bracelets, anklets and cotton
plaited friendship bracelets are welcome
additions to the seaside surf collections.
T: +44 (0)1273 776 415
www.talbotfashions.co.uk
58 giftfocus
NOA’s high quality designer jewellery is
subtle and elegant with vibrant colours and
simple geometry. NOA’s ceramics can be
framed with cool aluminium, warm brass
or sterling silver. The large range of ceramic
designs on offer makes it possible for
buyers to tailor collections to suit their own
customers. All of the company’s jewellery is
designed and made in the UK, and a trade
catalogue is available on request or from the
company’s website.
T: +44 (0)2920 758 409
www.noajewellery.com
21st Century Silver has launched many new
designs, including this heart set of sterling
silver with marcasite – a modern twist on a
classic gemstone.
T: +44 (0)20 8339 3731
www.21stcenturysilver.co.uk
Leather is high fashion and big business. You don’t
have to spend a fortune to get an impressive
display of tribal steel bracelets that will generate
real interest in your window. Just £200 will get
you a point of sale and around 25 bracelets,
which come with stylish branded pouches. There
are more than 200 styles in many colours. Most
sales for women are in 19cm, but Midhaven also
supplies XS or XL styles.
T: +44 (0)1299 851 513
www.midhaven.co.uk
HAZEL ATKINSON JEWELLERY LLP
a world of jewellery design
latest 21st Century Silver & Limelight designs out now!
BCTF 7-9 April
stand 116
tel 0115 941 1110
www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk
Handmade in the UK
21st Century Silver
the contemporary jewellery specialists
Tel/Fax: 020 8339 3731
Email: [email protected]
news from the ga
We get a round up of the very latest news from The Giftware Association
Anti-dumping duties: GA to seek
European Commission meeting after
feedback from suppliers
Chief Executive of the GA, Isabel Martinson is
planning to head a delegation to Brussels for a
meeting with the European Commission.
She is seeking a date for a hearing over its
decision to impose provisional anti-dumping
duties on ceramic tableware and kitchenware
originating in China.
Isabel has taken sound bites regarding the
matter from suppliers at trade shows this year
and says they are unhappy with what they
regard as indiscriminate penalties.
A meeting at Spring Fair, attended by The GA
and BHETA members, reinforced her belief that
their strong views should be communicated to
the EC.
GA members, representatives from W2
Products and Kimm and Miller have been
invited to accompany her on the trip to
Brussels along with individuals from BHETA.
Isabel said: “These duties are now beginning
to bite, so it’s a matter of urgency that we do
everything we can to persuade the commission
to, at the very least, reduce them.”
Gift of the Year: Retailer members revel
in the awards’ experience as Cubic
Products celebrate
For the first time, The GA’s retailer members
were invited to the Gift of the Year awards
ceremony on the Sunday evening of Spring
Fair. According to Isabel, they were delighted
to have the opportunity to network with the
experienced buyers who were tasked with
judging the competition.
She said: “It gave them an insight into the
selection process and a head start on the
Monday of the show when it came to visiting
the stands of those suppliers whose products
either won or were commended.”
Cubic Products took The Judges’ Choice
prize for outstanding product, and also claimed
the Kitchen and Dining award for its Birdy
Ceramics range. Additionally, the company
will be given a free stand at Autumn Fair
60 giftfocus
International by the competition’s headline
sponsor, i2i Events Group, organisers of Spring
Fair and Autumn Fair.
Nicky Sloan, Managing Director of Cubic
Products, said: “Since it was announced that we
had won both awards, buyers have sought us
out to order our prize-winning products and
the additional boost to our profile within the
gift industry has been phenomenal.
“Already, we can see the benefits to entering
such a prestigious competition and the amount
of interest in our ranges has been fantastic.
We are thrilled to be given a free stand at
September’s Autumn Fair.”
Speakers on social media and e-tailing
at GA Members’ Day
Social media and digital commerce expert,
Warren Knight will be one of the speakers
at The Giftware Association’s Members’
Day, which will be held at its Birmingham
headquarters on Thursday 23rd May, 2013.
Mr Knight will address members and guests
at a time when The GA is phasing in its
new-look website, which is designed to help
both retailer and supplier members promote
themselves to a wider audience.
Another speaker will be Mark Jones of
Occasions Direct, a successful e-tailer who set
up his business six years ago. He has just joined
The GA’s national committee to represent the
views and experiences of e-tailers.
Following the AGM and keynote
presentations, representatives from The GA’s
national committee and some of its service
partners will give advice to members and
answer questions at 15-minute surgeries.
“The Members’ Day is a great opportunity
for our newer members to find out what
The GA can do for them and to meet more
experienced members who are able to mentor
and support them,” said Isabel.
Retailers share their experiences
As well as presenting two Spring Fair seminars
about the setting up of bricks and mortar and
online retail businesses in the gift and home
market, Isabel also moderated two
well-attended panel discussions at the show.
These focused on how retailers could
differentiate themselves from competitors to
create a unique brand and retail experience.
Isabel reports that buyers were happy to
share their experiences and give advice, whilst it
also gave her the opportunity to promote The
GA and successful Gift of the Year companies
to them.
What do you think?
The GA is running tests on its new-look
website, which is being phased in this year.
It wants feedback from retailer and supplier
members, who are also being invited to upload
information that will enhance their profile and
create greater interaction. To take part, visit
www.ga-uk.org
Isabel bikes for Help for Heroes
Having raised thousands of pounds for Help for
Heroes three years ago, Isabel is again getting
back on her bike for the charity.
She will take part in the Big Battlefields
Bike Ride from Paris to London on the Bank
Holiday weekend between 27th May - 2nd June,
2013. Riders, including those injured in recent
conflicts, will cycle from the Eiffel Tower out of
Paris and into the French countryside. Over the
following six days, their journey will pay homage
to those who sacrificed their lives in significant
WW1 and WW2 battlefields in the Somme
before they cross back into the UK where they
will cycle through Kent to commemorate the
Battle of Britain.
The ride will draw to an end as they meet
with other cyclists at Blackheath – including
former GA Chairman, Michael Sweeney – and
make their way together through the streets of
London to lay a wreath at the Cenotaph before
reaching Horse Guards Parade.
To support our heroes, please donate at
www.bmycharity.com/isabelmartinson g
Further information
For The GA, log onto www.ga-uk.org
Agents
Required
If you are looking for well priced, good quality silver
jewellery all backed up with a great service then
have a look at our website
www.smilejewellery.co.uk
Carriage paid £200
For further details contact 01225 719583
all the answers
Our experts tackle your retail-related queries
Arona Khan is internationally renowned. In Japan
she has been described as the world’s foremost gift
wrapping expert. The presenter of three DVDs and
many online videos, she runs gift wrapping and gift
basket training courses and regularly demonstrates
her skills. Arona has shared her tips and techniques on
numerous television and radio programmes. Contact
her on T: +44 (0)1273 727 705 or
E: [email protected]
Neil Coxon is the Founder and Managing Director
of ‘from you to me’, creators of award-winning gifts.
Previously he climbed the corporate human resources
career ladder, specialising in people, leadership and
organisational development. His passion for psychology
and relationships inspired him to create the ‘from you
to me’ journals of a lifetime and gifts to treasure.
Contact Neil on T: +44 (0)1225 866 225 or
E: [email protected]
Q
A
Q
After becoming a seamstress making bespoke bridal
gowns, Kate Hamilton-Hunter went back into
education to study design, embroidery and textiles.
During this time she developed a technique for working
with metal and discovered a new material to make
her designs from recycled and reclaimed biscuit tins.
Contact Kate on T: +44 (0)1745 826 500 or
E: [email protected]
Jeremy Piercy is Managing Director of Shared Earth, the
fair trade business that he founded in York in 1986. He
also recently co-founded Walk Against Crime, which
supports a slum community in Nairobi, Kenya. He
believes that in tough times, it’s all the more important
to remember ethics as we make our business decisions.
Contact Jeremy on T: +44 (0)1904 632 896 or
E: [email protected]
If you have a question about any aspect of the gift retail industry, simply write
to: Q&A special, Gift Focus Magazine, Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham,
Essex, CM8 2UL. Alternatively, send your queries to [email protected].
62 giftfocus
I am considering introducing a jewellery line into my store.
What should I consider before choosing one?
Kate says: Choose a brand/style that will complement your
existing stock. The trick is to sell to customers who already
love what you do, rather than to attract new customers.
Price point: Don’t go too cheap or too expensive with a
trial run of a new line. Match the price points with your
other goods and know what your customers expect to pay
in your shop.
Are you going to go for a brand with a story? Do you
want to promote Made in UK? How will you entice your
customers to try something new?
Does the jewellery company provide point of sale, pretty
packaging etc? Look at the brand's whole collection, not just
the product.
I am considering stocking a range of hand-made gifts in
my store. What should I consider before making a decision
on stock?
Kate says: Do your current customers appreciate the value
of buying handmade? Will they pay a higher price than they
do for mass produced goods?
Customers won’t know the difference if you don’t spell it
out, so ask the makers for a photo of them at work and
write a short paragraph about what they do to help the
customer connect the maker with the product.
Are you going to support British designers or makers from
around the world? Consider fair trade suppliers if buying
from abroad so your customers know the money will
go to the artisans. Whichever you decide to do, let your
customers know what you’re doing and why. Be passionate
about your choices, find out about the designers so you
and your staff can talk with confidence about the makers to
your customers.
Display the products beautifully, using props to help tell the
artisans’ story.
Don’t just buy in a couple of pieces. Give lots of choice of
colours and styles so that your customers will find just the
right piece that they simply cannot live without!
Q
A
q&a
Would offering a gift wrapping service
throughout the year help my business?
Arona says: Yes! Just think how many gift giving
occasions there are and how much repeat
business you could generate from appreciative
customers who've purchased wrapped and
ready to give gifts. Retailers only providing a
gift wrapping service at Christmas are missing
out on a way to enhance customer service,
create a point of difference and increase sales
throughout the year.
Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter and
Father’s Day offer excellent opportunities
to sell single gifts, or better still, a selection
wrapped in a hamper or gift basket. Guests
want to dress gifts to impress for engagements,
showers and weddings, so you could offer a
premium service including exquisite
hand-made bows. The same goes for
baby showers, births and special wedding
anniversaries. Display wrapped presents
alongside products with gift tags to suggest
occasions and options.
If you want to spring clean slow moving
stock, try wrapping it or adding a bow – it can
work wonders!
As more gift retailers sell artisan foods, think
about having themed hampers for different
occasions. You could be missing a trick and
depriving your customers of a treat if you
don’t offer Halloween hampers packed with
devilishly delicious goodies!
Consider offering a gift wrapping service
free of charge if customers purchase the
wrapping paper and accessories or spend
over a certain amount. Alternatively add a fee.
The key to your success will be promoting
the service in-store and online and having well
trained, enthusiastic staff.
Find out more and watch free videos of my
top tips at www.aronakhan.com
Q
A
What are the best ways to make my staff feel
appreciated at work?
Neil says: You can tell your colleagues how
much you value their contribution at any time,
it’s not necessary to wait for a performance
appraisal or a major achievement.
Try to build a culture where all your colleagues
work well as a team and show appreciation
for each other. It’s often too easy to see the
mistakes or errors that occur, and to pick up
on these whilst taking for granted the day to
day wonderful things that people do. Spend
time noticing positive things and start by trying
some of the simple ideas below to create a
motivated team.
Say thank you regularly – and don’t forget
the please too. Politeness goes a long way.
Be specific about the fact they have done
well by praising them, and this can be even
more powerful if done in front of others.
Get to know their interests and from
time to time get them a small gift that they
will appreciate. It’s not about the money, it’s
absolutely about showing you care.
Leave a little thank you note on their desk,
locker or bag. This can be a lovely unexpected
surprise for them.
Show a genuine interest in them outside of
work. Find out about their family, friends and
interests in a non-nosey way.
Demonstrate as much flexibility as you can
for their personal needs around their holiday
plans or other time off.
If the budget runs to it, take your staff out
for a treat – a birthday meal, a Friday evening
drink – making sure you pay.
Q
A
I am thinking about introducing fair trade
lines into my store. What should I consider?
Jeremy says: There was a time, not long
ago, when ethical trading was quite an issue
with customers, and many would go out of
Q
their way to find products which fitted that
description. Many people still religiously buy
their fair trade tea or coffee, and as people
learn more about it, the support increases.
Fair trade gifts are normally hand-made, and
the prices are actually excellent when you
compare with factory-made goods from the
Far East or crafts made in the UK. Most of
Shared Earth’s woodcarvings (boxes, frames,
chess sets etc) sold out before Christmas as
a result. But many customers don’t appreciate
the skill involved in creating these pieces, and
anyway, there are other hand-made goods on
the market which are not fairly traded. So why
choose fair trade?
In my opinion buying fair trade because
it’s in fashion or trendy misses the point. We
should buy fair trade because of what it stands
for – a world in which people are not starving
or exploited, where people get a just reward
for their labour, and work in decent conditions.
Do you want to sell products if child labour
has been involved in producing them? In India,
if it’s not fair trade, there’s a strong chance that
it has.
Personally, I enjoy buying and selling infinitely
more when I feel that it’s doing good for other
people and not just earning me a living. I can
honestly say that my 25 years in fair trade have
made me a happier person for this reason.
When I retire, I will be able to look back,
have a clear conscience, and feel I have done
something useful with my life.
Why do we run our businesses after all –
just to make money? Money and profits are
not the most important things in life (and I
say this as someone who has had enormous
business problems in recent months). Being
a better person in the way you run your
company is good for the soul and makes you
a happier person. That is the real reason to
support fair trade. g
A
giftfocus 63
advertising feature
Cute, cuddly and interactive furry friends!
Emotion Pets, the range of classic, cuddly soft plush combined with unique,
interactive technology.
There are some exciting new additions in 2013
for Flair’s highly successful Emotion Pets range.
Little Cuddles are three super-soft, mini,
interactive plush friends; just give them a stroke
to see them wag and wiggle their heads, tails
and legs. At just £12.99 (SRP), these baby
versions of the Emotion Pet favourites Milky,
Toffee and Cherry are a more affordable option
for girls to adopt and are just waiting to be held
and hugged.
Emotion
Pets will also
be monkeying
around this
spring with
the addition of
Emotion Pets
Playfuls (SRP
£34.99), two
fully interactive
monkeys called
Cocco and Nutty. These cheeky chaps eat
absolutely anything you put near their mouth
and make crunching sounds as they eat. Cocco
and Nutty can also hang upside down by their
tail, where they fall asleep, and they make
realistic monkey sounds when petted or tickled.
Brand new and ready for cuddles this Autumn
is Sugar the Seal,
the only plush seal
pup that shows his
emotions and really
asks for the attention
of his new owner.
Sugar joins
favourites such as
Milky the Rabbit
and Toffee the Pony,
both of which have
achieved great
sales success.
The Emotion Pets
collections come with
heavy weight marketing to the core audience,
including TV advertising, online campaigns and
children’s press activity. g
For more information call Flair on
T +44 (0) 208 643 0320 or
E: enquiries@flairplc.co.uk
© Giochi Preziosi Spa
plush
xxxxx
xxx
super softies
Soft toys and teddy bears are still mainstream toys for children
and babies, despite the advances in technology
Many modern families want to steer children away from computers and digital games, and
instead encourage them to play with teddy bears and interact with their fluffy playmates like
they did in the good old days! Classics such as Peter Rabbit and Bagpuss remain constant, and
the revival of such characters as Paddington Bear have contributed to the teddy bear revival.
Many adults also delve into the world of plush to collect limited edition pieces.
Steiff teddies have shed their fur and are
ready to step out for spring. Dressed in
their finery, the catwalk-inspired Aluna
and Amelia are joined by their flamboyant
gentleman friend, Aurelius. The stars of
Steiff ’s limited edition Selection line, the
teddy bears look chic in their bouclé and
metallic linen, complete with snake print
paw pads. Aluna and Amelia sport elegant
corsages and rows of pearls, while Aurelius
is dressed to impress in gold, complete
with a Swarovski crystal collar.
T: +44 (0)20 8466 8444
www.steiff.com
Brand new for Great Gizmos’ portfolio from the NICI
collection is Minilara, who joins Minilina and Minilotta in NICI
Wonderland; three beautiful 100 per cent plush dolls that
come with accessories to inspire the imagination. All are
perfect as a child’s first doll, being washable and super soft.
Minilara has a range of reversible clothing that allows for
outdoor fun whatever the weather and includes a short dress
with matching hat; she’s also ready to sow seeds with the
apron, boots and glove set.
T: +44 (0)1293 543 221
Best Years has launched the
www.greatgizmos.co.uk
Organic Plush range. The toys
are produced in Egypt from
Personalised
soft Egyptian organic cotton
Memento Company
and are suitable from birth.
has launched a new
The designs range from an
plush addition to the
endangered species collection,
personalised gift family.
which includes a Humpback
A luxurious reminder
whale, seahorse and starfish,
of our childhood
through to dogs, cats and even
or a comfortable
vegetables. Best Years has a
companion for a
large range of fair trade and hand-made knitted and crochet toys, and felt a fair
little boy or girl, this
trade line would sit well with its current offering. As with all Best Years toys, the
luxury 14in-tall teddy
new organic range is suitable from birth and machine washable.
is suitable for children
T: +44 (0)1327 262 189
over one years old. The
www.bestyears.co.uk
bear features chocolate coloured eyes, a rich red ribbon
and a special touch of personalisation on his feet.
T: +44 (0)1782 744 900
www.personalisedmemento.co.uk
Enesco has unveiled GUND’s Dragons and Ninjas, new arrivals
from the land of Firezania. The fire-breathing dragons are
available in three colours – red, blue and green – and two sizes,
a large plush and their smaller counterparts.
Three new ninjas have bendable arms, removable swords that
can be attached to their hands, and pull-down fabric face masks.
With names like Vapour (blue), Jag (green) and Maddox (red),
they are sure to appeal to little ninjas in the family.
T: +44 (0)1228 404 022
www.enesco.co.uk
giftfocus 65
giftfo
super softies
Xystos is distributing the cute,
cuddly and commercial collection
from Bunnies by the Bay. The
christening and gifting range, which
includes blankets and toys, is
described by Tom Sykes, General
Manager at Xystos, as “a complete
concept”, combining superb
product, good value (the American
company helps orphaned children
in China) and a great stand concept,
which maximises the sales retailers
can make per square foot.
T: +44 (0)191 499 1570
www.xystostrade.co.uk
Flair has crossed a blanket with a puppet and created
CuddleUpPets - blankets that are puppets! In autumn 2013, the
collection will expand with Purple Monkey and Magical White
Unicorn joining Pink Poodle, Hot Pink Lady Bird and Yellow Ducky.
Brand new for autumn, CuddleUpPets will be partnering with some
of Disney’s favourite characters, including Minnie Mouse, Winnie
the Pooh and Tigger. Sully from Monsters Inc is set to be the star of
nurseries, following his return on the big screen this July.
T: +44 (0)20 8643 0320
www.flairplc.co.uk
Intelex Group’s Socky Dolls
continue to grow in popularity,
to meet the general public’s
demand for the quirky and
unusual. Six cute, colourful
characters are available, and
they make great collectable
companions for children and
adults. Socky Dolls are fully
microwavable, making them both
functional and useful. Their link
to actual socks is evident, being
made from 100 per cent cotton sock material, and the use of colourful
stripy fabrics capitalises on the public’s desire for socks with personality.
T: +44 (0)1933 679 777
www.intelex.co.uk
The Sparkly Eyes range from Aroma Home features a twinkling
array of screen wipes, pillows and snuggly Hotties, including Panda,
Bear, Owl, Spaniel and Rabbit. The twinkling eyes, a key feature of
the products, are sure to attract attention, whilst the super soft
plush material will ensure the cuddles keep on coming.
T: +44 (0)1793 487 684
www.aromahome.com
Dora Designs has
introduced a new range
for the younger Dora fans.
The items are based on the
company’s award-winning
Country Folk collection
and includes six characters:
Marcus Junior, Percy Junior,
Oscar Junior, Dora Junior,
Lionel Junior and Lily Junior.
Like their senior equivalents,
these plush toys are very
collectable and further
designs will be developed at
a later date.
T: +44 (0)1733 305 452
www.doradesigns.co.uk
66 giftfocus
Alongside a bouquet of flowers, a soft teddy bear is a quintessential new
baby gift. The Flower Stork has combined both to bring you a gift range
that’s a modern and quirky twist on these classic new baby gifts. The
Teddy Bear Bouquet Box contains a plush teddy (suitable from birth)
holding a bouquet of baby clothes. The flower buds contain cleverly
rolled essential items of clothes (aged three-six months).
T: +44 (0)1495 303 030
www.theflowerstork.com
implementing EPoS
In part one of his new series, David Mackley discusses EPoS systems and offers
some tips on how to go about buying a modern retail system
How to buy a retail system in 2013: Part One
Retail systems are now lower in cost, easier
to use and have more functionality than ever.
As a tool, they can really improve profitability
for a retailer. But the varied functions make
finding the right one seem so difficult. Sadly,
there is no Which? guide to EPoS, and trade
organisations are reluctant to recommend
any as they don’t really understand them, so
retailers are left alone to make the decision.
70 giftfocus
There’s a lot to consider with an EPoS
system, and with the risk of buying the wrong
one, potential mutiny from staff and throwing
thousands of pounds into the bin, the trusty
old cash register starts to look quite appealing!
This article looks at some tips on how to
go about buying a modern retail system and
improve the chances of getting it right the first
time round.
It was more than 20 years ago when Martin
Goodwin and Bob Henry created the first
EPoS software that could run on Windows.
Since then, EPoS systems have become
cheaper, more user-friendly, more functional
and more reliable. Since 2005, we have seen
the advent of multichannel retail systems.
Evolved from EpoS, they not only look after
store management, they also help retailers sell
online and via other marketplace channels.
Whilst these changes are making systems
more attractive, it’s the shift in consumer
behaviour that is the real driver – more and
more people are buying online – but does that
necessarily mean that EPoS is the best move?
Most independents I talk to didn’t go into
business to sell to anonymous people online;
they started with a passion to sell quality
products whilst delivering a great service to
local people. However, these days it’s hard
to avoid the internet because that’s where
customers are. Christmas saw a trend of
giving tablet computers to friends and family,
which has meant more people than ever can
access the internet conveniently. Independent
retailers are having to think about the best
ways to adapt their businesses in this new
world. The good news is that online selling
can be rewarding as well, nice feedback from
online customers is great – and can work
wonders for your online reputation! It’s also an
opportunity to reach out to new people.
Depending on your business, a multichannel
retail system can help manage both the online
and in-store parts of the business.
Technology overload
There appear to be few things as difficult or
complex as buying an EPoS system. There are
so many ways they can help your business,
and with so many features it’s easy to get
overloaded with facts and figures.
When starting Intelligent Retail in 2004, I
looked at other EPoS systems around then
and couldn’t believe how complex they all
sounded. This isn’t helped by well meaning,
enthusiastic sales people demonstrating
feature after feature, which all too easily cloud
those aspects that you’re most interested in!
There are ways to help avoid the muddle. The
following approach can help you to keep a
clear head.
Three top tips
Choose an EPoS partner not a supplier
The number one priority is to find a
partner you are comfortable with. This is not
like buying a TV from Currys. It’s not a one-off
transaction; you are selecting an IT partner for
your business. A good IT partner is there to
help, not just on technical problems but also to
help and advise on using the system.
Gaining an understanding of the company is
important. Find out who your contact will be,
try calling the helpline, how easily can you get
through? Who will be your specific technology
adviser, the person helping you move your
business forward and offering you fresh ideas
through technology?
1
retail technology
You can’t be an expert in everything. If
technology isn’t your thing then get a good
partner that understands your business – it can
become a valuable asset.
Be clear about what you want
The key to selecting the right system first
time is to write down a prioritised list of what
you want the EPoS to do for you. It’s better
to do this before you talk to any vendors so
that you are not swayed early on. When you
do start talking to vendors, have your list ready
and make notes against each point. This will
stop you forgetting who said what. It’s easy
to lose track with so much information flying
around. If, during the meetings, you hear of
new ideas, make a note then add to your list
later in priority order.
What is most important is that you start
with your own list. You know your business
2
better than anyone and your EPoS software
should complement it, not reinvent it!
A few examples for your list might include:
reduce stock holding, speed up customer
transactions, run a loyalty scheme across shop
and web, manage returns efficiently, create and
manage a website to sell 10 per cent of stock,
and track average sale value daily for each sales
assistant. Try not to write down ‘reports’, try to
think about what information you want in the
reports and how you will use it to help shape
your business.
Software selection
In those supplier meetings, ask that they
structure a demonstration around the needs
on your list. This has a few advantages – firstly,
it stops the sales person going off on a
well-meaning but confusing tangent about the
latest must-have features, and secondly the
3
discussion is on your terms and will help you
understand the software better.
It’s important that you feel comfortable
with the software very quickly. If you need a
manual to understand it, walk away. These days
computer software should be very pleasant to
look at and intuitive to use. With just a quick
overview you should be able to use the basic
functions, particularly the till. Simplicity is vital.
Because EPoS looks after many of your shop
processes, one size doesn’t fit all. You should
be able to find software that meets around
95 per cent of your needs (it’s very rare for
off-the-shelf software to fit 100 per cent). I
suggest looking at systems that are used by
retailers in your sector. This means the majority
of functions should fit.
Unless you have very deep pockets and
lots of time and patience, do not entertain
getting a bespoke system made. Also, if the
company says it will build new features for you,
make sure the function is clearly described
in writing and signed by a director. Software
development is famously complex, expensive
and largely underestimated! Most retailers will
see enough benefits with a system that fits
95-99 per cent of their business requirements,
but some will put off buying a system unless it’s
100 per cent, which is likely to never happen.
Finally, check for all ongoing costs and
how charges are made for enhancements if
required at a later date.
Next time we will look at tips on how to
buy a system, as well as the top three pitfalls to
EPoS buying! g
David Mackley MBA BSc is Managing
Director of Intelligent Retail, providers
of Multichannel EPoS and eCommerce
websites for independent retailers. If
you have any questions you can contact
David on T: +44 (0)845 680 0126 or
E: [email protected]
giftfocus 71
celebrating stationery
Get involved in National Stationery Week, a major sales and marketing opportunity for retailers
National Stationery Day has become National
Stationery Week, following the success of the
2012 event. Taking place between 22nd - 28th
April, 2013, it’s a celebration of the written
word. The aim is to get Britain writing – and
spelling stationery with an e!
Gift retailers are being encouraged to get
involved with National Stationery Week and
take advantage of growing consumer and
media interest in this ground-breaking initiative.
The organisers have produced a special
guide for retailers called ’10 ways to get
involved with National Stationery Week’,
which is available on request by emailing
nationalstationeryweek@firstevents.com,
together with free ‘I’m a stationery addict’
badges for customers and staff.
The Pen Shop, Colemans, Osbornes
Stationers, Websters Pen Shops, Jarrold, Cult
Pens, Fenwick and Bureau Direct were just
some of those who promoted National
Stationery Day on their websites in 2012, as
well as via Facebook and Twitter. They also ran
promotions and used special shelf wobblers
and badges for their customers and staff.
National Stationery Week has recently
linked up with the National Literacy Trust,
the only national charity dedicated to raising
literacy levels in the UK, to promote the
importance of writing by hand to teachers and
children in particular as part of its Get Britain
Writing campaign.
“Handwriting and stationery is for all
ages, and children are the stationery users
of tomorrow,” says event Organiser Chris
Leonard-Morgan.
“One of the main aims of National
Stationery Week is to get more people in
Britain putting pen to paper, and more often.
Writing by hand, and the ability to express
oneself and communicate well, is more
important than ever in this digital age.
“National Stationery Week is on a mission
to shatter the myths that no one writes letters
anymore, that handwriting doesn’t matter and
that stationery isn’t eco-friendly.” g
Aims of National Stationery Day
1. To get more people putting pen to paper
and writing by hand, especially children.
2. To get consumers talking about
stationery, and the products and brands
they like.
3. To get the consumer media talking and
writing about stationery more often.
4. To increase stationery sales.
5. To get more people spelling stationery
with an e!
National Stationery Week is organised
by the London Stationery Show and
sponsored by Sheaffer, Letts Filofax,
Faber-Castell and Mitsubishi uni-ball.
For more details of how to get involved
in National Stationery Week in your
store, T: +44 (0)20 8462 0721 or visit
www.nationalstationeryweek.com
72 giftfocus
the write stuff
Despite the introduction of tablet devices and ongoing
technological advancements, the good old pen and paper still
remain strong contenders for day-to-day organisation and a
means of communication
The market is bursting with new designs and creations for all those stationery lovers out there.
Many of us still prefer to use pen and paper when it comes to writing lists and keeping in touch
with friends and family.
Shared Earth has some fun everyday
cards available this spring. The company’s
card making suppliers, SHAPII (Salay
Handmade Paper Industries) are based in
the Phillipines, where skilled artisans cut
paper shapes by hand and apply petals and
beads with tweezers. All of this mixed with
contemporary design leads to a range of
quirky and eye-catching greetings card. There
are 15 new designs to choose from.
T: +44 (0)1904 632 896
www.sharedearth.co.uk
More Than Bags is a family-run business
based in Anglesey, North Wales, and
supplies a high quality range of gift
stationery. One of the company’s brand
new ranges is a selection of hand-made
wooden books. The sepele wooden
covered books incorporate brass hinges
and plaited lokta twine spines, and come
complete with a presentation box. The
refillable 96-page lokta blocks complete
this beautiful and practical offering.
T: +44 (0)1248 431 172
www.morethanbags.co.uk
One of the newest ranges from Otter House’s
Water Lane Gifts collection is the whimsical
Magic Garden stationery. Designed by artist
Judith Glover of Garden Days fame, Otter
House has created a delicate and tactile range
of lifestyle pieces. Items include notebooks,
address books, metal pens and mini concertina
wallets. The range comes with a bespoke
counter-top display unit and package deals.
The first range of home office stationery from
Water Lane Gifts is Tweed. This collection
marries traditional home office products with a
striking, contemporary design. Using soft linen,
pink tweed fabric and debossed leatherette,
these products are both stylish and modern.
The range comes with a floor standing display
unit and package deals.
T: +44 (0)1392 824 300
www.otterhouse.co.uk
Aliroo has created a quirky collection of letter
invitations, announcements and thank you’s.
Available in packs of eight of a single design
with white envelopes, the designs have space
on the back to fill out the essential details, and
measure 95mm sq.
T: +44 (0)1844 352 183
www.aliroo.co.uk
74 giftfocus
giftfocus 74
stationery
Namaste is launching a large range of hand-made products and stationery.
These beautiful craft made papers are made by a long established family-based
business in Northern India. The range includes notebooks, paper gift boxes, gift
bags, hand-made gift wrap and greetings cards. The paper is made from cotton
waste, generally off-cuts from the Indian garment industry. No wood is used in
the production process and the local environment is respected.
T: +44 (0)1756 700 790
www.namaste-uk.com
Two Little Boys is launching an entirely new range for 2013.
In 1926, Two Little Boys’ Great Great Uncle Reg had a card
printed in the form of a railway ticket that wished all a
pleasant journey along the Railway of Life. Two Little Boys has
taken this iconic statement and made it their own in the form
of a new range of products. Now, you can give the gift of a
first class ticket on the Railway of Life with different messages
across its new notebooks, including Choose Your Own Route,
Notes On A Journey, A Journey Is Best Measured In Smiles
and Full Steam Ahead. These notebooks are made from
textured paper and come in dusky pink and vintage green.
Each notebook contains 32 blank pages and is A6 in size.
T: +44 (0)20 8400 3606
www.2littleboys.co.uk
Ancient Wisdom has named its
ranges of pens as Rather Ridiculous
Pens and Rather Cute Pens. They
will brighten every office and
bring lots of fun to any amount
of homework. The Fluffy Flamingo
friends have suction cups that hold
the feet to a surface. There is an
assortment of colours available,
and the pens have black ink and a
medium tip. Wholesale prices start at £4.68 per pack of 12.
T: +44 (0)114 272 9165
www.ancientwisdom.biz
Alljoy Design’s beautiful
laser-cut notebook is
hand-made with the
highest care and attention
to detail. The metallic
paper cover gives a very
nice touch. The company
is launching a new range
of swing cards, comprising
32 designs. All cards are
blank inside and measure
128mm x 178mm.
T: +353 (0)1 445 3537
www.alljoydesign.com
dots and spots’ A6 notebooks contain 64 pages with a mix of blank and
square paper, with a pale blue spotty inner cover, a dots and spots design
detail. Available in 16 different designs, these vibrant notebooks add a splash of
colour to any shop display and are an attractive impulse purchase, with a RRP
of £2.50. They are also available in complementary pairs and, like all dots and
spots products, are attractively packaged.
T: +44 (0)1749 344 932
www.dotsandspots.co.uk
giftfocus 75
london stationery show
fashion meets function
London Stationery Show is back in April, bigger and better than ever
If you sell, or are thinking of selling anything
to do with stationery products or writing
instruments, then the London Stationery Show
should be in your diary! It’s the only UK trade
exhibition dedicated to stationery, and takes
place during National Stationery Week.
The 2013 show is a third bigger than last
year’s event, and 60 per cent bigger than two
years ago, and has taken on more space to
meet the rising exhibitor demand. Visitors
will be able to see 150 stationery and pen
brands and suppliers at the show – including
40 new exhibitors – more than any other UK
exhibition, with everything from the everyday
and functional to the luxurious and aspirational
on display. Almost all exhibitors are showing
new and environmentally-friendly products,
any many will have special offers exclusively for
visitors to the show.
New exhibitors include Charles Letts, Lamy,
Peter Pauper Press, Artbox, Filofax, Meisenbach
Pen, Brightstream, The Canterbury Silver
In brief
show
organiser
where
when
opening times
website
twitter
London Stationery
Show
First Events
Business Design Centre,
Islington, London
23rd - 24th April, 2013
Tuesday 9.30am - 5pm
and Wednesday 9.30am 4pm
www.stationery
show.co.uk
@StationeryBytes
Company, Pentel (Stationery), Silvine, Artcoe,
Helix, Bagabook, Santoro Graphics and Ryland
Peters & Small.
“The London Stationery Show is fast
becoming a one-stop stationery superstore
for retailers and buyers, where they can see
the newest, as well as the biggest brands in the
business, such as Parker, Moleskine, Sheaffer,
Letts Filofax, Lamy, Maped and Faber-Castell,”
says Organiser Chris Leonard-Morgan. “There
is everything from social stationery, high-end
leather goods and pens to desk accessories,
notebooks and licensed stationery, all in one
convenient location.”
The show organisers want to remind people
about the joy and importance of putting
pen to paper. They say it’s not just about the
physicality of holding a beautiful pen and
languorously pouring out thoughts on paper;
it’s about stopping what you’re doing and
taking time to enjoy the task in hand – literally!
For more information and to register for
free entry, visit www.stationeryshow.co.uk g
giftfocus 77
fashion meets function
Exhibitor profiles
uni-ball
Stand G530
www.uniball.co.uk
uni-ball is focusing on making headlines at the show with new product launches
and an individual exhibition stand. The stand will be interactive, allowing visitors
to try its new pen products and learn more about the qualities of the pen and
brand. The company is also the main show sponsor for the second year in a row.
uni-ball will be launching a number of new products, including the Magik Girl and
Eye Needle pens.
Otter House
Stand G580
www.otterhouse.co.uk
Otter House will present its 2013 Water Lane Gifts
collection at the show. Water Lane Gifts is a brand focusing
on highend licensed and non-licensed stationery products.
2013 sees the continuation of its best-selling Royal Botanic
Gardens, Kew and Madeleine Floyd stationery collections,
plus the launch of its Judith Glover Magic Garden stationery
items and the company’s inhouse bespoke ranges. Water
Lane Gifts delivers beautiful products created using
contemporary design, luxury fabrics and detailed finishes.
Individual retail solutions and bespoke stands are available.
Dodo Pad
Stand G100
www.dodopad.com
Thanks to Dodo Pad’s birthday
reminder innovation, belated cards
and embarrassing apologies can
now be a thing of the past. The
Dodo Birthday Calendar and
Card Store not only records the
milestones of everyone’s nearest
and dearest, it also neatly stores
birthday cards alongside the appropriate date. Each individual
monthly reminder allows the user to record birthdays and
anniversaries by date and stores up to six cards.
Scheaffer
Stand G360
www.stonemarketing.com
One of the world’s most prestigious
pen brands is pin-pointing the
British market as its lucrative area
of growth, as it embarks on a year of
celebrations for its 100th anniversary.
Founded in 1913, the American
brand has established itself as a premium name
in the UK stationery market and is increasing its presence
with independent stockists and large retail chains. Sheaffer is
celebrating its centenary with two limited edition collections –
the Sheaffer Centennial and the Sheaffer Legacy Heritage ranges.
78 giftfocus
More Than Bags
Stand G480
www.morethanbags.co.uk
More Than Bags will be
launching more than 20
products at the show, and
will once again showcase its
lokta gift stationery products.
Amongst the new ranges
are the stitched leather A6
notebooks and A5 journals
that come in five colour
options: pink, blue, lilac, black
and burgundy. Every one of
them is refillable with lokta
paper blocks. The acid-free
paper is a 100 per cent
renewable resource due to the
plant regenerating from the
same root system, and is
environmently friendly.
T: +44 (0)1248 431 172
www.morethanbags.co.uk
Bagabook
Stand A350
www.bagabook.com
Bagabook is delighted
to be exhibiting for the
first time at the London
Stationery Show, and
will be launching its
British Library inspired
Bagabook, taken
from the Macclesfield
manuscript that features
one of the earliest forms
of writing from the 15th
Century. Embracing
technology, Bagabook’s
trademark features spill over to its e-reader and iPad ranges, with the latest
edition for the iPad Mini or Kindle Fire HD, featuring an innovative rotatable
black polka dot case.
head of the table
Gift Focus talks to Pat Dawson, Managing
Director of homeware and gift specialist,
Creative Tops
Creative Tops
was established
in 1996, firstly
specialising in
the manufacture of glass worktop savers in
Wellingborough from a very small facility.
“Our very initial thought process was all
about design,” explains Pat. The company
looked at the market, and at that time, glass
boards were retailing for £19.99 with farmyard
pigs, herbs, roses and cats being the best
designs! “With our bullish attitude, we had a
strong feeling that if we produced stronger
designs at the right price and great packaging,
we could attack the market.”
Pat says they didn’t appreciate how difficult
it was going to be to get a product listed with
a major retailer. “We were very lucky in the
early days and won some very large orders,
which gave the business the platform to grow.
You really have to run a tight ship when you
start and keep overheads low,” explains Pat.
80 giftfocus
“Research the customers you are trying
to sell to, and never make an appointment
unless you have already seen what they are
selling. I have made that mistake and it’s very
embarrassing! Look at the competition and
offer something different.”
Pat’s background is mainly in sales and
marketing. She started her working life in the
fashion industry, working for a major fashion
store chain at the retail end, and eventually had
her own store. Pat also worked in marketing
and PR, which she says was a really useful time
in understanding the importance of good
marketing for any company, no matter the
size. She also dipped into the publishing world,
where she was both Ad Manager and Publisher
for a monthly magazine and national free paper.
“I guess fashion and what we do at Creative
Tops are not all that different, as we bring
fashion into the home. The great thing now is
that the home has become much more trend
and fashion-led, so we can all be that little bit
more creative.”
Pat remembers some of the highlights from
her earlier days: “The very first order from
Tesco was significant, and the first time we
reached £1million turnover in a month was a
good reason for champagne.
“Seeing the V&A range in John Lewis was
lovely, but I guess being acquired by Lifetime
Brands was really the pinnacle.”
In November 2011, Pat and her business
partner sold the business to leading US
tabletop, kitchenware and home décor
organisation, Lifetime Brands Inc.
“All the hard work and sacrifice, not just by
me but everyone in the business, had finally
been appreciated and recognised by a serious
global player. The Lifetime Brands team is very
similar in outlook to us, just a lot bigger!”
Since the acquisition by Lifetime Brands, the
list of products the company offers has grown
considerably. Its core range is tabletop and gift,
encompassing a comprehensive collection of
items under the brands Kew Gardens, V&A,
Katie Alice, Simpsons, Monopoly, Born to Shop
and Mr Men.
Products include ceramic tableware, mugs,
giftware, tablemats, coasters, melamine trays,
profile
kitchen textiles and of course glass work
surface protectors. “This is at the heart of what
we do and it’s important that we keep focused
and build on the past success we’ve had.”
Creative Tops now has the benefit of
working with a company that is huge in food
preparation products and cutting knives
in the US. “From working alongside our
US counterparts, we have now introduced
kitchen tools and gadgets, coffee pots, ceramic
cookware, cast iron cookware, chopping
boards, knives and various food prep products
that we believe will be right for the UK market
under the Sabatier, Pedrini, Farberware, and
Misto brand, plus the new and exciting Savora
kitchen tool range which was previewed at
Frankfurt this year,” says Pat.
The beautiful Mikasa brand is available in
addition to all this and includes dinnerware,
serve ware, glass and cutlery. This is a hugely
successful, well-respected brand in Europe
enjoying significant turnover. “Customers
across Europe have strong loyalty to the brand
and product, and we see this as being a very
important part of our offering going forward,”
continues Pat.
As well as offering its own products and
designs, Creative Tops has the flexibility of
being able to design bespoke collections for
many international customers both in the UK
and around the world.
Traditionally, the company’s best-selling
products have been its tablemats and coasters,
but over the past couple of years it has seen
a growth in the sales of giftware. The brand
that is getting most placement at the moment
is Katie Alice, and the sell through has been
significant. In kitchen, the company has received
a good reaction to Misto, Savora and the
Pedrini ranges.
Creative Tops aims to refresh its offering
at least twice a year. “If a particular design
or collection is selling well then we will look
at extending the range by introducing new
products and colourways. Customers want
newness far more quickly now as we all aim
to excite our customers and drive sales. We
are now working on introductions throughout
the year, alongside the key spring and autumn
season dates.”
Pat is currently working on the construction
of a brand new showroom, which is being built
at its Corby headquarters. The showroom
will encompass more than 424m sq and will
accommodate an area for kitchenware and
tabletop products. “I hope this fantastic asset
will soon become a hub for holding our
own events, mini exhibitions and press days.”
It’s been a massive undertaking, involving a
significant amount of investment, but she
is confident they will begin to see some
significant commercial opportunities soon.
Pat has immense pride in Creative Tops and
everyone employed by the company. “When
I step back and see what our little worktop
saver company has achieved, I hope we can
truly do Lifetime Brands proud and help it
with its own ambitions. We have the most
phenomenal, loyal, clever team of people in
every department and I want them to grow
in strength and really enjoy their time at work.
Selling the business has secured the future for
Creative Tops; that in itself is very rewarding.”
Pat’s main goal over the next three years
is to build this successful UK-based business
into a world-class organisation, with fantastic
products, people and brands. Her vision is to
be the UK market leader in the housewares
industry, and they’re well on the way… g
Further information
For more information, T: +44 (0)1536 207
710 or visit www.creative-tops.com
giftfocus 81
insurance solutions
Neil McFarlane, Managing
Director of T.H. March &
Co Limited
Gift Focus readers put their insurance queries, concerns and questions to
leading brokers T.H. March
I am planning to launch a retail giftware
business. Aside from the obvious cover for
stock and premises, are there any other
important risks I need to consider?
The right insurance cover is crucial for the
future protection of your business. There are
many aspects to take into account and you
would be wise to seek professional advice
relating specifically to your business. In the
meantime here are just a few important points
to think about:
• If you are planning to take on an employee
you must have Employers’ Liability Insurance.
This is a statutory requirement.
• Public and products liability cover are
essential too, as without these there is the risk
that you could potentially be held legally liable
to pay damages and legal costs as a result of
negligence arising during the course of trading.
This could happen for example if a member of
the public was injured in a trip or fall whilst on
your premises.
Q
A
82 giftfocus
• If you are using commercial finance to
open your new business, most providers will
want to see a business plan that shows you
have arranged insurance in all relevant areas.
This may involve arranging cover such as key
person cover or critical illness insurance. It may
also involve insuring against damage to glass
and shop frontage.
• Business interruption is another vitally
important risk to think about when arranging
cover for your new business.
I am becoming increasingly worried about the
threat of flooding. How best do I protect my
business and income?
Clearly there is a lot you can do beforehand if
there is the threat of flooding:
• Keep yourself informed via the local media
or www.environment-agency.gov.uk
• Move whatever you can safely and securely
to upper floors or higher storage areas (stock,
paperwork, electrical equipment etc).
• Take whatever preventative measures you
can (sandbag areas of potential water ingress
such as doors, drains etc).
• Have emergency numbers in a safe
waterproof place where they can be easily
reached. Include in this list your insurers, local
authority, utility companies and other useful
contact numbers.
If the worst does happen:
• Contact your insurer as soon as possible.
(Brokers to the Giftware Association, T. H.
March would take over handling the claim for
you at this point if your insurance had been
arranged through us).
• Record the damage – photographs will
definitely help.
• Take reasonable action to prevent the
damage from worsening once the flood waters
have receded.
• Arrange temporary repairs where necessary.
• Don’t dispose of any damaged items unless
they pose a danger to health.
• Always keep receipts for any work you have
had to carry out.
Q
A
What is Business Interruption Cover?
Should I have it?
Imagine the previous scenario has just
occurred – you can’t open for business
because you’ve been flooded! Clearly your
business insurance policy will cover flood
damage to premises and stock. If you also have
business interruption cover, which I personally
think is vital, additional costs such as hiring
temporary premises will be met. This means
you’ll be able to continue trading during
the subsequent repair and clean-up period,
enabling you to maintain cash flow.
Business Interruption Insurance will also
replace the gross profit for your business for
the period that it’s interrupted by an insured
risk (such as a flood.) This covers the recovery
of customers phase.
Business Interruption cover will cushion you
from the blow and may even be the vital factor
that saves your business. Many who don’t have
such cover will go out of business within 12
months of a major incident.
Many people who have been flooded want
to know if their premiums will automatically go
up. The answer to this isn’t simple. However,
if your business is located in an area that
is not normally at risk and you have simply
fallen foul of unusual weather conditions, you
may experience only a temporary increase in
premiums. Each case is highly individual and
this is where a good broker will be your most
valuable asset. g
Q
A
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
living the dream
After a career as a solicitor then teaching A-level law at a nearby college,
Alison Hulse finally followed her dream of opening a gift shop and
supporting her local community
Like most little girls, Alison enjoyed playing
shop. From the age of five she would hold
sales in her front garden selling her toys to
friends. As a teen this progressed to boot sales,
until at the age of 14 she got her first real
taste of retail after securing a Saturday job at
Freeman Hardy Willis.
“I loved this role and my manager
would often let me dress the window and
merchandise the shoes. At the age of 16 I
was accepted on a BTEC course to study
retail display and design. However, my parents
suggested this was more of a hobby and
thought A-levels were more appropriate. As a
result I ended up going down a different road
entirely and went on to qualify as a solicitor,”
explains Alison.
She still kept a hand in retail whilst studying,
working for a number of high street retailers,
including Principles, Waitrose and Cobra
Sports. “I genuinely enjoyed these jobs,
especially if I was given some artistic licence.
I remember when I worked at Cobra Sports
in Hammersmith; it was a brand new shop
84 giftfocus
and we had to work all night to get it ready.
The manager let me dress the window on my
own. I absolutely loved it, and couldn’t believe
it when she said she was happy with it. Perhaps
I should’ve know then that a career in law was
not for me!”
After practising as a personal injury solicitor
for seven years, then teaching A-level law at
a sixth form college, Alison began to think
about running her own shop more seriously.
“I had always dreamt about having a shop full
of gorgeous things, but never thought it would
happen. After becoming a mum, my priorities
changed and I started to think about other
career options. I had always loved looking in
little shops, especially when visiting new cities,
and I loved buying accessories for my home.
“It was around this time that I started
to think about opening a shop, but it was
really only a distant dream. I stumbled across
Gift Focus magazine online and spent hours
pouring over each issue thinking about what
I would buy if I had my own business. Whilst
on maternity leave with my second child, I
walked past a local shop that was for sale and
arranged to go and see it. I was so excited and
put in an offer, which was accepted.
Unfortunately, for a number of reasons,
the sale fell through and I was devastated.
Several months later, I decided to give party
planning and online sales a try, as I felt it was
a fairly safe dip into the market and would
give me valuable experience. I also took a stall
at a Saturday market and really enjoyed the
interaction and felt that people loved the items
I had picked.”
Alison was killing a bit of time surfing the
internet one day, when she noticed some local
premises that would soon become empty. “The
location was ideal – literally a five minute walk
from my house. I knew in my gut that it would
work. My local village has been in turmoil over
the last few years due to an ongoing dispute
with Sainsbury’s which wanted to expand its
retailer interview
existing store. Some local people objected to
the plans, and due to the uncertain future of
the area, many traders moved out leaving the
village a shadow of its former self.
My husband and myself have always felt very
strongly about investing in our local community
in whatever way we could. On paper and
in this climate many people doubted it
would work, but I knew local people needed
somewhere to go and hoped that it might give
locals some optimism for the future of our
area. I contacted the landlord and arranged the
viewing and knew straight away that it would
make a great shop. I then contacted the bank
about a business loan and crossed my fingers
that they would help me with the finance.
I think it was fate as everything just fell into
place (with a lot of hard work!).”
Alison opened her shop, Tilly Mint, in Crosby,
Liverpool on 3rd November, 2012. “Not a day
goes by when I don’t have at least one person
popping in the shop just to say well done
for adding value to the area and giving local
people what they need. It makes me feel really
proud that people like my shop so much.”
Alison offers a wide variety of products,
from jewellery by Kate Hamilton-Hunter,
scarves by Peony and POM and candles by
The Country Candle Company, to local
photographs and hand-made items. Her
best- selling line is the Patisserie de Bain range
of bath melts by Rose & Co. Alison has made
a feature of the bath melts using pretty cake
stands, and it’s amazing how many people think
they are real cakes. She loves gift-wrapping
them and tying them up with ribbon for that
extra special touch.
The Humour range of coasters and magnets
by Half Moon Bay has also been a massive hit,
and causes lots of giggles at the counter. She
also stocks a range of cards by Blue Eyed Sun,
and has doubled her stock as they’ve proved
so popular. “They’re quite different from the
average card bought on the high street.
“My aim in opening my shop was to offer
local people the option to buy their gifts locally,
thereby saving them time, money and the
effort of heading into town. Customers have
been so complimentary, and love the fact that
they can just walk up the road and pick up
something nice. As my shop is located close to
school, I wanted to make sure that I had nice
children’s gifts as any mum with small children
will know the party invites never end and this
can prove quite costly. It was important for me
that customers could come in and pick up a
quality item at a good price and I think I have
achieved this.”
One of Tilly Mint’s most interesting ranges
is its bespoke products. Alison has teamed up
with a number of fledgling local companies,
including Dottie and Burt, Olly Bolly and
Esther and Me. All of these companies provide
quality, hand-made, locally produced items and
customers love the fact that they can support
local businesses and at the same time buy
something individual and special.
The interior of the shop is simple and classic
with a vintage feel. The walls are white but
the skirting and other wood is painted in blue
to match the exterior. Alison found some old
furniture in charity shops and painted them
in pastel colours to add to the feel. “People
are always asking if they are for sale so I am
thinking of doing this as a future project,” she
adds. “I have tried to make the shop very easy
to get around, particularly for mums with push
chairs. This was important to me as I have
encountered difficulties in the past with my
own pushchair and I didn’t want to create any
barriers, particularly as my shop is next to a
number of schools and children’s centres.”
Alison uses a number of avenues to source
her stock. “I love to trawl the web for new
ideas, and like to buy lots of magazines to
keep up with trends. I also love to look around
other shops and see what they have to offer,
as I like to try and sell things that are different,
so it’s always good to keep an eye on the
competition. Naturally, I attend the gift fairs
and recently attended the Christmas and Gift
show in Harrogate, which was great fun. I’ve
found a number of new products in Gift Focus
magazine and like to make use of post-it notes
when going through it!”
It’s still early days for Tilly Mint, so Alison’s
short-term plan is to get to know her
customers and build a brand and reputation.
In the long-term she would love to transform
the back of the shop into a vintage tea room.
People keep joking about her opening Tilly
Mint Two, so watch this space... g
giftfocus 85
get it right
Dids MacDonald, CEO of Anti-Copying in Design (ACID), discusses growth
through innovation and says good design is a key market differentiator
In a sector that is still growing, despite the
gloomy economic news elsewhere, design is
a key differentiator between one product and
another. In a competitive world where every
order is hard earned, it’s important to get it
right! Pricing and design quality, reinforced by a
robust marketing strategy which promotes the
benefits of small scale design and manufacture,
will be a strong selling point.
ACID supports the view that investment
in training, design, expertise and creativity will
help the industry respond to, and capitalise
on, the challenges ahead. Design know-how,
skill and craftsmanship are the lifeblood of the
UK design sector and recognised worldwide.
For tomorrow’s IP originators to flourish,
craftsmen, designers and manufacturers will
need to identify and harness their intellectual
property to fully protect, exploit and
commercialise the IP they create. By adopting
a proactive strategy, this will help to reduce
the risks of infringement and maximise the
opportunities to trade positively to provide
growth and job security.
So what better time to focus attention on
a proactive intellectual property strategy to
protect the intellectual capital that sits under
your brand? Whether micro, SME or a major
organisation, creating an IP strategy must be
a key ingredient within any three - five year
business plan.
ACID’s IP strategy points to consider:
Create one!
ACID can help. Take a quick look at some easy
ways in which an IP strategy can be created. If
you’re an ACID corporate member, come to
one of our IP strategy lunches including
one-to-one design clinics and benefit from an
IP audit and IP strategy review.
Positive communication of your IP strategy
This is essential – internally and externally and
88 giftfocus
throughout the whole supply chain. Basically,
if you don’t want to be copied, say so. There
is no better place than on a website, within
terms & conditions, marketing material and
product labelling. IP communication sends a
clear message that original design and design
integrity = value, not only for the purchaser
but for the originator.
Create a proactive IP strategy
Not reactive, only deals with IP issues when
it becomes fire fighting. Identify IP issues and
put a plan in place. Ask what the risk factors
are. What is your plan of action if you discover
copies? If you haven’t got one, create one.
Education - become IP savvy
Create an informed understanding within
your team. IP knowledge is important to all
organisations, regardless of size. The ACID
website has some very useful IP Q & A’s:
www.acid.uk.com/ip-doctor
Choose battles carefully
Never sue on principle, only if there’s a
quantifiable loss and a clear IP case to pursue.
Publicise any settlements in the trade press
to communicate a zero tolerance of IP
infringement. The trade press is a small world
and word soon gets out.
Territories
Identify where you are trading, and what the
risk factors are. If your designs are infringed
in another country, where is your IP support?
Have you registered your designs in that
country? For example, to take legal action
in China you need to have registered your
designs there.
Registrations
Create an IP portfolio of your design and
trade mark registrations, including any patents
you may have. This is also essential for raising
funding/investment or exit strategies.
Trade secrets/employees
Ensure there are restrictions in contracts
of employment. There’s nothing worse than
finding out that an ex-employee has run off
with all your valuable trade secrets to arm a
competitor with a fast track to your know how.
A company’s or individual’s ‘trade secrets’ refer
to confidential business information which only
a limited amount of people within a business
have access to, such as your customer list,
the methods you use to make your product
specific to design, manufacturing or industrial
processes. In short, anything that gives you a
competitive advantage.
Confidentiality
Guard your trade secrets carefully. Ensure
that there’s a protocol in place to ensure
that the confidentiality of your business is
not compromised. Create confidentiality
agreements for sensitive information between
you and employees privy to this information.
Agreements
Clarity of IP ownership is essential. Agreements
underpin most commercial relationships; it’s
good to know you have the small print to rely
on if things go wrong. ACID has some standard
re-usable agreements, which can be tailored
with IP legal input and become part of your
standard terms and conditions of business.
Insurance
Expensive, but worth considering if continuing
infringement is a significant issue.
ADR/mediation
It’s good to talk! You should consider
alternative dispute resolution/mediation as an
alternative to litigations.
Black + Blum
product showcase
These ACID members all have a
proactive IP strategy in place.
Rachael Taylor
We reveal some of this season’s hottest gifts
New Trumpette Socks for Wild & Wolf
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Patents county court
In the last two years there has been a significant improvement in the
process and costs element of enforcing your rights in court. There is
also a small claims track for low value IP claims under £5,000.
Got a good idea?
Keep it safe! Never underestimate the risks of sharing a good idea
unless you know there are safeguards. If the safeguards are in place then
the idea can turn into positive design collaboration for mutual advantage
and joint success. Think about using ACID’s IP Tracker (available also to
non-members). A safe means of sending confidential information or
designs digitally to a third party. Visit www.acid.uk.com/ip-tracker
Register for protection
Register new designs wherever possible and budget for enforcement.
ACID has a Design Databank for unregistered designs and it’s free
to members. This doesn’t add to IPRs, but nevertheless serves as
compelling proof and provides third party evidence of when new
designs are received by ACID.
Invest in the right IP advice
Invest with IP professionals and business advisers who know
and understand your business and your marketplace. Those with
demonstrable experience within the furniture sector will serve you well.
Arm yourself with knowledge
Be IP aware! Watch competitors closely; watch the marketplace.
Respect the rights of others
Essential within your own CSR.
Know the risk factors
Who is copying you? Keep watch!
2013 will continue to raise challenges for the giftware sector but with
the right IP policy in place, this can help maximise growth opportunities
and allow you to successfully launch new products into the marketplace
from a position of knowledge, safety and strength. g
Further information
Visit the ACID website, www.acid.uk.com
*SVJYVXLIVMRJSVQEXMSRGEPPT: +44 (0)1225 789 909SVZMWMXXLI
[IFWMXIwww.wildandwolf.com
New placemats and coasters from
Creative Tops
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*SVQSVIMRJSVQEXMSRGEPPT:+44 (0)1536 207 710SV
E:[email protected]
Octonauts by Wild & Wolf
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*SVJYVXLIVMRJSVQEXMSRGEPPT: +44 (0)1225 789 909SVZMWMXXLI
[IFWMXIwww.wildandwolf.com
Knitted Cats & Kittens
bookshelf
We turn the page on some of the latest gift
books to hit the shelves
Merchant & Mills
Sewing Book
RRP: £20.00
Format: Hardback
Published by
Collins & Brown
ISBN: 9781908449092
Keep it simple and do it well:
the guiding philosophy of the
team behind Merchant &
Mills has now been captured
in this book. Seasoned
dressmaker, Carolyn
Denham, leads readers stepby-step through 15 beautiful
and practical projects.
Visit www.anovabooks.com
Safari: A
Photicular Book
RRP: £16.99
Format: Hardback
Published by Workman
Publishing
ISBN: 9780761163800
Safari is a photicular
book, a lenticularbased technology that
transfers fluid
four-colour movies onto
a book page. Suitable
for the whole family, the book takes readers on a safari with 3D
moving images of eight exotic animals – cheetah, rhino, elephant,
giraffe, gazelle, zebra, gorilla and lion.
Visit www.workman.com
90 giftfocus
RRP: £9.99
Format: Hardback
Published by Search Press
ISBN: 9781844488469
Filled with fun from cover to cover,
Knitted Cats & Kittens is ideal for those
who love both knitting and cats. There
are 20 different cats and kittens to
choose from, and of course all felines need accessories
so there’s even a knitted scratching post, basket, colourful knitted balls
and tiny mice. With general notes on basic techniques, materials and
abbreviations, even those new to knitting will find a crazy cat or cute
kitten in this book to knit and love.
Visit www.searchpress.com
Felt with love
RRP: £9.99
Format: Paperback
Published by Search Press
ISBN: 9781844487691
Readers can discover the world
of felt by making the quick
and easy projects in this book.
There are 15 to choose from,
all broken into simple steps
and accompanied by wonderful
photographs. There are great
little items to decorate the
home with, or give away as gifts. Perfect projects for those new to
sewing, as well as more experienced stitchers.
Visit www.searchpress.com
My Little Paris
RRP: £11.95
Format: Paperback
Published by ACC Distribution
ISBN: 9782812304651
My Little Paris is a favourite
website of Parisian women
(200,000 women in Paris are
members). In its first book, the
creators of the site share their
best kept secret addresses. This
is the book for ladies to slip into
their handbag when on a visit
to the city. A mix of attractive
Parisian addresses are illustrated
by funny, elegant drawings by
Kanako, a Japanese artist.
Visit www.accdistribution.com g
If you’ve enjoyed reading Gift Focus
magazine, why not log onto our website
at www.giftfocus.com? Containing
up-to-the-minute news, events and
special offers, the site is updated
regularly with information to help you
advance your business.
Find a supplier
The latest feature on www.giftfocus.com,
the supplier directory allows you to
contact advertisers in the magazine for
more information about their products
or services. Simple to use and available
world-wide 24 hours a day, the supplier
directory is a reader reply service for the
21st century.
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• Back issues archive
If you’re looking for information on a
particular giftware sector or show, take
a look at our back issues archive. All
back issues will be sent out post-free.
Special features
• Featured articles
Read our regularly updated spotlighted
features whenever you wish, covering
legal issues, intellectual property advice,
the latest EPoS information, tips from
the Giftware Association and much,
much more.
• Media pack
Download our comprehensive on-line
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advertising rates and specifications.
www.giftfocus.com
92 giftfocus
92 giftfocus
FEATURING THE BEST OF BRITAIN
On the beautiful island of Jersey, you are never far away from a stunning seascape. Inspired
by the natural charm, simplicity and beauty of island living, the Seascape collection
features essential oils distilled from local produce and herbs. This, combined with UK
ingredients, UK packaging and UK manufacturing, makes Seascape
– Island Apothecary truly the best of British!
FOR THE CUSTOMER:
Seascape features 7 different ranges –
something for the whole family:
• Hand care (Refresh)
• Hair care (Revive)
• Bath and Body (Unwind & Uplift)
• Maternity – safe (Soothe & Unwind)
• Hommes (men)
• Les Petits (children)
19 individual products and 5 gift sets:
both perfect for gift giving occasions
and daily needs.
Formulations are 100% natural
essential oil based, featuring
lavender, eucalyptus and rosemary
and are without parabens, silicones,
petroleums, SLS, artificial colors
or fragrances, and are suitable for
vegetarians.
FOR THE STOCKIST:
• very competitive trade pricing
• free testers and POS materials
• 48 to 72 hour order turnaround
• free delivery on order over £300
ex-VAT
• 2 great impulse purchases: 10ml
Pepper mint Lip Balm and 75ml
Refresh Hand & Nail Cream perfect for handbags, and a great
way to get introduced to Seascape!
web: www.seascapeuk.com • e-mail: [email protected] • tel: 0845 003 5255
competition
WIN!
A fully-stocked spinner of Blue Eyed
Sun’s best selling Vintage cards worth
£750 RRP
Blue Eyed Sun is an award-winning card specialist which
produces its cards in Brighton and sells to leading
retailers worldwide.
Its best selling Vintage hand-made cards are all based
on original hand-stitched embroideries created by artist
Jo Corner. Printed on the finest Italian boards, they are
embossed and then hand-finished with jewels. The cards
retail at £2.99 RRP.
To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize,
simply answer the following question:
Where are Blue Eyed Sun’s cards produced?
Enter on-line at www.giftfocus.com before the closing
date of Tuesday 30th April, 2013.
Terms and conditions apply.
The winner will receive 36 packs
of six cards, plus a spinner and
header board. Total retail value of
the prize is £750. g
Tel +44 (0)1273 823 003 www.blueeyedsun.co.uk
giftfocus 95
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Bathing beauties
Gift Focus magazine, the leading trade title for the giftware industry, is
available free of charge to qualified registered readers. Published six times
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, Broseley House, Newlands Drive,
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL. Alternatively, photocopy the form and send a
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Bath & body
Rose & Co
Let the sun shine!
Summer product showcase
Doctor, doctor
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Pulse preview
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Housewares
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giftfocus 97
personal touch
The discovery of a pretty silver spoon at a car boot sale led Katie Dobson to launch
The Cutlery Commission, a company specialising in personalised cutlery
Katie Dobson had dabbled in silver smithing
in the past, so had all the necessary tools
at home. She came across a pretty silver
spoon and knew it would lend itself perfectly
to her craft, so once at home she stamped
‘Hey Sugar’ on it. Katie started personalising
spoons as christening presents, and The
Cutlery Commission grew from there.
Being a visual merchandiser for eight years
led Katie to discover a love for silverware:
“I’m a very creative person but always
considered myself a crafter as opposed to an
artist,” she says.
The Cutlery Commission is already
stocked in independent, high-end gift shops
and boutiques. The company’s biggest
contract is Liberty, and lots of its stockist
requests come from shop owners who have
spotted the spoons in the London store.
A selection of art galleries featuring British
designers and artisans also stock the cutlery.
“We offer a limited edition collection for
most big dates in the calendar – we are
currently compiling Mother’s Day and Father’s
Day ranges,” explains Katie. “Our pet range
is going to be launched soon too, and we
already have some gorgeous pet boutiques
lined up as stockists.”
For the time being, Katie is happy to focus
on just cutlery and establishing the name
98 giftfocus
in the gift industry. “Our teaspoons are
definitely our best-sellers – I think the £12
price point is a huge positive and as a nation
of tea drinkers, one can never have too many
teaspoons! Also, a silver spoon is a traditional
christening gift, so our New Baby range is
a year round best-seller. The teaspoons get
a lot of press coverage too, so stockists do
find that customers recognise them and get
quite excited!”
So what’s next for The Cutlery
Commission? “We listen very carefully to
our stockists and customers and take on
board all feedback. We will be expanding the
range and also focusing on point of sale and
packaging. We recently launched gift boxes
and branded tissue paper, which were both
received really well and definitely enhance
the cutlery itself. Everything is designed
in-house and bespoke, so we really are a
special and individual little company.
“We are also having an image overhaul!
I designed the logo and all the tags myself
when I started out as a one-man-band and,
although they served us well, I feel we need
to create a sleeker image to reflect our
sophisticated brand.”
For further information about the
company and its products, visit
www.thecutlerycommission.com g
Candle Jar Shade
Mouth blown by Craftsmen
The Milford Collection
Unit 18 Dyffryn Industrial Estate, Newton, Powys SY16 3BD Wales UK
Tel: 01686 629919 Fax: 01686 623918 [email protected]
www.themilfordcollection.co.uk