Win! Win!

www.giftfocus.com
Issue 47 May/June 2008
www.giftfocus.com
THE GREAT
OUTDOORS
Stylish products for
alfresco living
Nostalgia and
retro-style
Yesteryear today
Wedding gifts
Perfect presents for
the big day
Burning brightly
Hot candles and home
fragrances
Win!
Luxury trip to Home & Gift
PLUS
• Pulse preview
• Men’s jewellery
• Summer Fair latest
67
May/June 2008 Issue 47
Group Editor
Demelza Rayner
+44 (0)1376 535 609
[email protected]
contents
special feature
Editor
Sarah Reeve
+44 (0)1376 535 609
[email protected]
burning brightly
Editorial Assistant
Jennifer Kettle
+44 (0)1376 535 609
[email protected]
features
Sales Manager
Mark White
+44 (0)1376 535 606
[email protected]
Sales Executive
Sharon Connelly
+44 (0)1376 535 606
[email protected]
Design Manager
Vicky Longman
+44 (0)1376 535 616
[email protected]
turning Japanese
news&events
all our yesteryears
industry news
6
Update on the latest happenings in the giftware
world
on with the show
Trade fair dates and developments
Production Manager
Stuart Weatherley
hot property
Kline Davis Limited
Broseley House
Newlands Drive
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL
www.giftfocus.com
10
14
Insight into the best new product launches
Average Net
Circulation: 6,601
(01/07/07 to 30/09/07)
56
Stylish items for alfresco living
wedding gifts
67
tough lines
73
Spotlight on the booming market for men’s jewellery
52
Spotlight on the world of licensing
retailer interview
76
Warm welcome for new Welsh gift shop eva
63
Essential advice from our experts
competition
the great outdoors
Perfect presents for the big day
brand spanking new
q & a special
40
Nostalgic gifts to encourage repeat sales
70
up and coming
82
Mixing business with fun at The Girlie Gardening
Company
Win a trip to Home & Gift, Harrogate courtesy
of Clarion Events.
14
Cover courtesy of The Potting Shed
www.tinklingtoadstools.com
Gift Focus is solely owned, published and
designed by Kline Davis 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 £40 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques
should be made out to Kline Davis Limited and
sent to Gift Focus @ Broseley House, Newlands
Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2UL.
36
Product lines inspired by Japan
Graphic Designers
Sarah Barnes
Antony Long
Sophie Farage
Laura Perry
+44 (0)1376 535 616
Administration
Scott Brothwell
+44 (0)1376 535 607
29
Hot products in the popular candle and home
fragrance sector
36
focus on...
the ga
16
All the latest from the Giftware Association
diary of an SEO trial
25
Part four of David Mackley’s insight into choosing
an SEO company
insurance health check
39
TH March advises on protecting key staff.
Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated
merchandising
MEDIA SUPPORTER
Hints and tips from leading supplier Yankee
Candle.
Useful advice on unregistered design rights
decorate life
22
Raising the curtain on Frankfurt’s newly amalgamated
trade show
55
pulse
43
Preview of leading design-led exhibition
ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN
acid
shows
72
summer fair
59
A sneak peek at this growing mid-year event
giftfocus 3
summer
sourcing
The quest for that elusive something special
continues relentlessly.
In an increasingly competitive
marketplace, the need to source new
products has never been more crucial.
With savvy consumers becoming ever
more demanding, with an ever-shorter
attention span, retailers have to keep on
their toes to keep ahead.
The need to source new products more
regularly, throughout the year has changed the familiar face of traditional
buying patterns.
As a result recent years have seen a growing number of midseason buying events being launched, offering more choice and greater
opportunity to meet the shorter buying cycles.
Pulse enters its sixth year this June with an even more diverse and
exciting line up offering buyers the chance to ‘spot something different’.
Held at London’s Earls Court it is billed as the place to go to spot
fresh new products, brand new companies and exciting creative talent.
See page 43 for a taste of what’s to come and don’t forget to visit us
on the Gift Focus stand (J69a) for a chat and to pick up a free copy of
your favourite magazine.
Summer Fair returns to the capital later in the month. Following its
debut last year the 2008 edition promises to be bigger than the last,
with new exhibitors, emerging talent as well as major brands. Read our
preview on page 59 to find out more.
Summertime special, Home & Gift, Harrogate follows in July a longestablished favourite and a ‘must-do’ event in the trade show calendar.
For your chance to visit the show in style turn to page 70 for
details of how to win a luxury trip for two to Harrogate, courtesy of
organisers Clarion Retail.
Further afield I will be joining overseas journalists from America,
Japan, India and Russia, as an invited speaker at the Hong Kong Gifts &
Premium Fair from April 28th to May 1st. We will be taking part in a
seminar on latest market trends in the gift industry.
Rest assured I will be flying the flag for Great Britain and spreading
the word about our wealth of home-grown talent.
Watch out for the next bumper Gift Focus edition for a report back
from the show.
As well as news of all the major trade events this issue is crammed
full of all the latest product launches, emerging trends, business updates,
information and advice.
Enjoy reading
HVgV]
Sarah Reeve
Editor
giftfocus 5
industry news
All the latest in our regular news round up.
Xystos buys Cello name
Xystos has bought the trading name and all intellectual
property rights of design-led glass supplier Cello for an
undisclosed sum.
It is reviewing the current catalogue of the business,
which specialises in hand made, hand painted products
supplied from Eastern Europe, and will launch a full Cello
range from stock at Home & Gift in Harrogate this July.
Among Cello’s best known ranges are Crystal Fantasia
and the complementary Darkness Fantasia, comprising
decorative vases, dishes and candleholders.
Xystos entered the sector when it bought Rockingham
Crystal and has since secured the UK distribution rights for
Walther-Glas.
Cello was formed in 1997 to produce an eclectic range
of product designed to appeal both to traditional and
contemporary tastes.
For further information call +44 (0)191 499 1570 or
email [email protected].
Betty Boop brochure
J J Vaillant Ltd as official licensee has just
released a point of sale brochure for their highly
collectable range of hand painted Betty Boop
figurines. Betty’s popularity has been growing
steadily for the last five years and this year they
offer over 90 items in various poses and colour
ways. Black glitter finishes, a recent addition to
the range, is selling well with high demand for
the 1m display pieces.
Send an email to [email protected]
for further details or visit the comprehensive
website www.jjvaillant.com.
6 giftfocus
Natural glamour from Figs & Rouge
Grafton International is now the official distributor of natural hair and body care range
Figs & Rouge.
The UK brand, which is based in Chester, was originally launched in August 2007
by Debra Riley, an occupational and holistic health therapist and Nicholas Gawne, an
artist and designer.
The range of natural hair and body care products are packaged in Art Deco
inspired bottles and boxes. Combining natural, botanical aromas like rose, geranium,
juniper and jasmine, products include a bath soak, shower wash, body lotion, shampoo,
conditioner, hand cream and two scented candles.
All products contain 100 per cent organic essential oils and are Vegan Society
approved. They are also free from parabens, sulphates, synthetic aromas or artificial
colours and ingredients. All new products are also undergoing accreditation by the
Soil Association.
To find out more call +44 (0)1827 280 080.
Emap takeover
Emap plc, organisers of Spring, Summer and Autumn Fairs, has been taken over by
Eden Bidco Ltd, a joint venture between Apax and Guardian Media Group plc.
Apax Partners is one of the world’s leading private equity investment groups.
Guardian Media Group plc is one of the UK’’ leading mutimedia companies with a
diverse portfolio including the Guardian and Observer newspapers.
Focal Point Farewell
Focal Point is bowing out of the gift industry.
The company, which promotes and provides dedicated exhibition space for
selected design-led independent businesses, celebrated its 33rd birthday at Spring Fair
Birmingham this year.
Now managing director Joy Jordan has decided to call it a day in order to pursue
other interests.
She said she was proud of Focal Point’s record for promoting thousands of creative
firms since it began in 1975 from an idea originated by Robert Jordan. Many of its
customers have grown to become ‘giants’ of the gift trade including Gisela Graham
and Malcolm Ford - just two of the original members.
news&events
Industry professionals
Karen Rowe has joined
Fraser Studios as the
company’s representative
for the North-West.
Karen, from Bolton, was
previously with Swiss
watch company Rado
and also has extensive experience in the
giftware industry.
Swedish dolls hit the UK
DKL Marketing has been awarded the distribution rights for the UK and Ireland of the Rubens Barn
range of soft dolls.
Originated in Sweden, Rubens Barn offers a range of hand-made soft dolls. The dolls have distinctive
sculpted faces with embroidered eyes and no two are exactly the same.
Their unique looks coupled with zany outfits ensure fun dolls that appeal to children of all ages. Doll
sizes range from 24cm through to 50cm in length.
For further details contact DKL Marketing on +44 (0)1604 678 780.
Puckator’s new showroom
Puckator Ltd’s new purpose built showroom and offices
has been officially opened at their headquarters in East
Taphouse, near Liskeard in Cornwall.
Pictured are managing director Mark Howard cutting
the ribbon, with customer Mrs Jan Wheeler of Bewitched
in Polperro.
The 3,000 sq ft offices and showroom is the latest
phase of an expansion and rebuilding programme ongoing
since Puckator purchased the Lowman Works site in
March 2001. So far over 21,000 sq ft of warehousing has
already been added to the existing 3,000 sq ft, with more
warehousing in the pipeline.
The showroom will house a large selection from the
7,000 plus products Puckator sells worldwide.
For further information call Puckator on +44 (0)1579
321 550 or visit the website: www.puckator.co.uk.
Xystos managing
director Nick Frankish
and sales director Andy
Lewis are leaving.
The gifts and
collectables company
confirmed the news
and wished them both
all the best.
The principals of
the business will be taking a more active role
and the workload will be spread between the
existing management team.
The company reports that it has made an
excellent start to 2008 with February and
March sales figures up 41 per cent over the
corresponding period last year.
Emma Gray has joined the company as a
customer service assistant.
LittleGifts from Fraser Studios
Fraser Studios is introducing another new line – LittleGifts, America’s leader in pet-themed jewellery, giftware and
appealing accessories.
The company is planning an on-the-road ‘soft launch’ for LittleGifts, followed by an official launch at Home and Gift
in Harrogate this July
A range of breed specific key chains featuring the 50 most popular dogs will be introduced first.
The metal key chains are rhodium plated so they don’t tarnish and will have a recommended retail price of £9.99
(£3.85 trade).
The LittleGifts’ collection also includes breed-specific mobile phone charms and crystal collar charms.
Bad Taste Bears alive and kicking
The business and assets of Piranha Studios has been sold to The Bad Taste Bear Company.
The sale completed on 28th March 2008 and the Bad Taste Bear Company will be continuing the supply of
the Bad Taste Bear brand. For further information visit www.badtastebears.com.
giftfocus 7
industry news
Fraser Studios moves into glass
The famous name of St Andrew’s will be seen on retailers’ shelves in early summer.
Scotsman Colin Fraser will initially supply a range of stemware and giftware in soda glass and is planning to
introduce St Andrew’s Crystal from Europe at the beginning of next year.
St Andrew’s Stemware and St Andrew’s Giftware will see four different patterns – Saturn, Laurel, Fuschia, and
Flower of Scotland. Also, in response to demand from a major glass buyer, a fifth edition in the style of Rennie
Mackintosh, has also been added.
Fraser Studios’ St Andrew’s Stemware will be available in red wine, white wine, flute, highball, whisky and brandy
in boxed pairs (trade £8.50, retail £19.99) and in sixes (trade £21, retail £49.99), except the brandy glasses.
St Andrew’s Giftware will comprise 19 hand-blown, hand-cut pieces – bowls, vases and jugs – in each of the
four main patterns. All the pieces are exclusive, in-house Fraser Studios designs. For further information call Fraser
Studios on +44 (0)1592 774 540 or email [email protected].
Live with Cavania
Cavania Cards has taken a further step into the male cards arena with
a new range focusing on the sports lover. Each card is unique in that
the main image is a drinks coaster that can be removed and used later.
Featuring both the most popular activities and some more specialist
areas the sports covered include football, rugby, cricket, windsurfing and
snowboarding. Each card comes cello wrapped and has a recommended
retail price of £2.35. For further details call +44 (0)1895 824 899 or
email [email protected].
Giochi Preziosi Group acquires Flair
The company behind latest sensation the Gormiti figurines has taken over UK toy company Flair.
In a joint statement the Giochi Preziosi Group, confirmed that it has acquired 95 per cent of Flair Leisure
Products plc.
Giochi Preziosi is a European toy group based in Italy with subsidiaries in France, Spain, Greece and Germany.
The group’s activities cover a wide range of toy products but also include snack
foods, shoes, back to school products and other consumer products aimed at the
youth market.
Peter Brown, Chief Executive of Flair said: “We are delighted to have joined
the Giochi Preziosi family of companies. Over the last two years we have got to
know Giochi Preziosi and we have admired their high levels of professionalism in
both marketing and product development. Gormiti is an outstanding example of
a highly successful brand, which Giochi Preziosi has created themselves.”
Spaceform and beyond
Contemporary giftware brand Spaceform London, is
expanding into new territories.
Spaceform London will be the creative hub of new
divisions - Spaceform USA and Spaceform Russia.
Although working in separate territories, both of the
new divisions will work closely with London to continue
to promote the company’s philosophy of providing people
with a sentiment, token, gift or gesture for when words are
simply not enough.
Both of the new divisions will reflect Spaceform
London’s techniques and values but tailor them to each
specific market.
8 giftfocus
Tribute to
‘Father of
Collectables’
Leading gifts and collectables
company Enesco has paid tribute
to its founding chairman Eugene
Freedman, who died aged 82 on
February 19th 2008.
In a company statement
honouring the entrepreneur and
philanthropist he is remembered
as a name synonymous with
“dedication, passion, generosity and a
pioneer spirit”.
He is described as a man who, “
worked tirelessly around the clock
to share his wealth of knowledge,
energy, enthusiasm and strong belief
in his fellow mankind”.
From the incorporation of Enesco
in 1959 he helped steer it from
an import company distributing
crystal ashtrays and decorative brass
objects, to a global leader in artist
based gifts and collectables.
Through the Precious Moments
and Cherished Teddies collections
he developed long-standing personal
relationships with consumers.
“Enesco is proud to bear the
legacy of his amazing leadership,
intuitive product sense and
generosity of spirit. The values he so
nobly upheld will live on throughout
our company and in the hearts and
minds of all he touched.”
on with the show
diary dates
In-Store Show
when
where
website
20th-22nd May 2008
Earls Court 2, London
www.instoreshow.com
Pulse
when
where
website
1st-3rd June 2008
Earls Court, London
www.pulse-london.com
Exclusively Housewares
when
where
website
10th-11th June 2008
Business Design Centre,
London
www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk
Summer Fair
when
where
website
22nd-25th June 2008
ExCel London
www.summerfair.co.uk
Retail Solutions
when
where
website
24th-26th June 2008
ExCel, London
www.retailsolutions2008.com
Premier KIDS to run alongside Spring Fair
From 2009, Premier KIDS will take place form 1st-3rd February, alongside Spring
Fair, Birmingham, which will be held at the NEC from 1st-5th February.
The shared date-line is being introduced in order to maximise the strong
synergies between the two influential UK shows and deliver more opportunities
and a bigger offer to buyers. Premier KIDS, will sustain its well-established fashion
identity alongside Spring Fair.
The next edition of Premier KIDS takes place from 6th–8th July 2008 at the
NEC, Birmingham. Visit the website www.premierkids.co.uk to find out more.
Jewel Britannia!
New look Retail Solutions 2008
Top retail technology
providers have signed
up to the re-launched,
re-packaged and relocated Retail Solutions
at London’s ExCel.
Retail Solutions,
organised by Emap Retail is the UK’s largest event
showcasing a wide range of solutions and cutting-edge
technology for the retail industry.
It is moving to London after more than 15 years at
the NEC, Birmingham, to provide retailers with greater
access to the fast growing retail technology market.
More than 200 leading solution providers will be
exhibiting products and services available to the retail
industry, many of which will have their first viewing in
the UK.
The European Retail Solutions Awards will take place
on the evening of Wednesday 25th June. The awards
celebrate successful use of technology by retailers and
suppliers to drive their businesses forward.
For further information log onto the informative
website www.retailsolutions2008.com.
10 giftfocus
Coutts London Jewellery Week will be
taking place from 11th-15th June this year.
The week has been designed as an
industry-wide celebration of all things
jewellery, bringing together leading names
and cutting edge designers, conveying the
allure and diversity of British jewellery.
The event will offer the public a journey
of discovery into the world of jewellery across London, from established designers
to undiscovered treasures exhibiting at numerous locations across the capital,
including the Tower of London.
London will be “bejewelled” during the week – from a “jewel-encrusted” carpet
along Burlington Arcade, to the London Eye turning into a giant diamond ring. Bars,
restaurants and hotels will also be offering special Coutts London Jewellery Weekthemed packages to encourage visitors.
Over 200 jewellers are expected to take part, ranging from the high profile
industry figures such as Michael Wainwright of Boodles, Theo Fennell, Stephen
Webster and Shaun Leane, through to up-and-coming stars such as Hannah Martin;
60 of whom will be exhibiting at the Tower of London during the week.
Based on work commissioned by the City Fringe Partnership, the organisation
behind the event, with funding from the London Development Agency (LDA)
Coutts London Jewellery Week has been established in light of significant demand
from both consumers and the jewellery industry itself.
For further details visit www.londonjewelleryweek.co.uk
news&events
All the important dates and venues for your buying diary
Major coup for
In-Store Show
The In-Store Show is to
host the live showcase
finale of the first every
Skillsmart Retail Visual Merchandising Competition.
The finale will see the
four short listed visual merchandising teams go head
to head to build ‘Energy
of Life’ displays in front of
thousands of visitors and a
prestigious panel of industry judges.
Each team will have a ‘window’ to dress in the competition feature area on the show floor.
Visitors can see the teams in action on the first day of the show.
Organised by Centaur Exhibitions, the In-Store Show takes place from 20th-22nd May 2008
at Earls Court 2 in London.
Now in its 11th year it returns bigger and better than ever, providing a unique insight into the
future of visual merchandising, in-store and retail design.
For further information visit www.instoreshow.com.
New feature to enhance gift show website offerings
Gateway to Japan
The third edition of Giftex is being
held in Japan from 9th to 11th July
2008, offering a gateway to the world’s
second largest gift market.
The gift market in Japan has been
expanding rapidly, in particular, demand
for imported gifts, interior and design
goods is extremely high.
Organised by Reed Exhibitions
Giftex is held at Tokyo Big Sight,
Japan, and runs concurrently with
Design Accents Expo Tokyo and Asia’s
largest stationery show, International
Stationery and Office Products Fair
Tokyo (ISOT).
A vast range of products will be
exhibited including arts and crafts,
home interior ranges, tableware, health,
bath and beauty products, party goods,
novelty gifts and much more.
To find out more log onto the
website www.giftex.jp.
GLM, a dmg world media business and Whereoware have joined forces to offer a state-of-theart product finder, called the Online Catalogue Gallery, on GLM gift show websites.
The Catalogue Gallery allows GLM tradeshow visitors to browse exhibitor catalogues or
brochures online and gives exhibitors the chance to show complete product ranges online
before, during and after a tradeshow.
The Catalogue Gallery, launched on the New York International Gift Fair website in April
2008, will be available on other GLM gift show sites from this summer.
Whereoware is a service-based solutions provider that uses technology and the Internet to
help customers increase sales and improve service levels.
Further information about the Catalogue Gallery is available online at www.nyigf.com/
exhibitor/promo-catalog.html.
Strongest line up to date
Exclusively Housewares, being held from
10th-11th June 2008 at the Business Design
Centre, London, promises to present its
strongest line-up to date.
Featuring a host of key brands new exhibitors include Arc International Tableware,
Lesser and Pavey and Denby alongside show
regulars like Addis, Churchill China and Maxwell and Williams to name but a few.
The latest offerings for autumn and Christmas 2008 will be unveiled with many exhibitors
also using the show to float ideas for the following spring.
With another sold out show under its belt for 2008, Exclusively Housewares continues to go
from strength to strength bucking a general industry trend, with visitor numbers rising steadily
every year.
View www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk to find out more.
giftfocus 11
on with the show
Greener California Gift Show
In line with its commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, the California Gift
Show has joined the Sustainable Furniture Council (SFC).
The SFC is a non-profit organisation of around 160 industry players
created to promote sustainable practices among manufacturers, retailers and
consumers. In addition the California Gift Show and the SFC are planning
a pavilion within the At Home division of the show to present exhibiting
members of the council. The next edition of the show takes place from
18th-21st July 2008 at the Los Angeles Convention Centre. Some 1,200
exhibitors will be taking part throughout nine divisions including gifts, fashion
accessories and jewellery. Additional information is available online at
www.californiagiftshow.com.
Christmas & Gift expands
clearance section for 2009
Following a highly successful 2008
show, Christmas & Gift organisers
are looking to expand the clearance
section of the event next year.
With plans to dramatically increase
the number of companies exhibiting,
they are offering a price rollback as
incentive for companies looking to
exhibit at the 2009 event. Companies
booking early will be able to book
space at prices lower than 2002!
The pricing policy is part of a
number of customer focused initiatives.
All exhibitors will be included free of
charge in the media programme, which publicises company details on the
official website, in the catalogue and on the in-show electronic screens.
Christmas and Gift traditionally starts the exhibition season and is held in
the picturesque spa town of Harrogate.
Clearance at Christmas and Gift takes place at the Cairn Hotel from
Saturday 10th – Monday 12th January 2009. To find out more call +44
(0)1932 240 130 or visit the website www.harrogatefair.com.
Media private equity firm acquires Clarion Events
Leading UK independent exhibition, event and conference business Clarion
Events, has been acquired by Veronis Suhler Stevenson (VSS), a private equity firm specialising in the media, information and education industries.
VSS is backing the existing management team led by Simon Kimble (CEO)
and Tim Pilcher (COO) who led the original management buyout of the
business in 2004. David Arculus, founder of Emap Business Communications
and former chairman of Earls Court and Olympia joins the senior
management team as non-executive chairman.
Clarion is based in London and operates 65 events and conferences
across six sectors. Key brands include B2B shows serving the high-end
giftware industry including Home and Gift in Harrogate, Pulse and Top
Drawer shows.
12 giftfocus
looking ahead
Decorate Life
when
where
website
4th-8th July 2008
Frankfurt, Germany
www.decorate-life.messefrankfurt.com
Giftex
when
where
website
9th-11th July 2008
Tokyo Big Sight, Japan
www.giftex.jp
Home and Gift
when
where
website
13th-16th July 2008
Harrogate
www.homeandgift.co.uk
California Gift Show
when
where
website
18th-21st July 2008
Los Angeles Convention Centre
www.californiagiftshow.com
For further in-depth show previews
Page 43
Page 59
Page 22
Pulse
Summer Fair
Decorate Life
Scottish shows buck industry trend
Springboard Events Scottish trade shows exceeded
expectations this year with a nine per cent rise in visitor
numbers bucking an industry trend for falling footfall.
Held at the end of January at the SECC Glasgow,
Springboard Events was delighted with the success of
Scotland’s Trade Fair, Spring and Scotland’s Food Fair, Spring,
which was co-located this year with the Speciality & Fine
Food Fair, Glasgow.
The new venture with The Guild of Fine Food created a
brand new show for the food and drink retail market.
NEW FOR 2008
Clay-Mate
‘Occasions!’
Still hugely adorable, we’ve
now made Clay-Mates as
an impossible-to-resist
greetings line.
*RUJHRXVO\KDQGPDGHLQÀQH
porcelain to last forever!
Get an attractive Clay-Mate ‘Occasions’
merchandiser for only £65.25 plus VAT plus £3 pp
T - 01428 727474 F - 01428 725405
E - [email protected]
www.clay-mates.com
Spotlight on some of the latest hot products to hit the market
brand spanking new
Enesco
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Where The Smart Money Is
Telephone +44 (0)1228 404 022 or email [email protected]
RRP £15
A range of funky but functional resin money banks.
From canvas trainers to the latest styles in ladies footwear, chocolate biscuits to teacups,
these money banks are attractively gift boxed and should appeal to young and old alike.
The office coffee fund will never look the same again, save up the pennies in a unique
chocolate biscuit bank, which looks good enough to eat! More fun designs in the pipeline
for mid year.
Ultimate Products
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Zone
Telephone +44 (0)161 627 1400 or visit www.ultimate-products.co.uk
RRP £29.99
A complete wireless gaming package including two hand-held controllers
and a built in pack of seven sports games.
Ultimate has designed ZONE to bring wireless gaming to everyone and is
expecting it to be one of their biggest volume lines for 2008.
Anyone, children and adults alike, can play and enjoy ZONE games, making
it an ideal activity for all the family.
Santoro
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
The Little Extras
Telephone +44 (0)1709 518 100 or visit www.santorographics.com.
RRP £2.50
Santoro’s new range has really caused a stir, as vegetables and small
animals across the country are losing their identity! Available in 16
different designs, each card comes complete with up to 75 stickers
to personalise everything from goldfish to broccoli!
Each 124 x 169mm card is individually cello-wrapped and comes
with a high quality co-ordinating envelope.
The cards are blank inside for personal messages.
Menu
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
14 giftfocus
Black Titanium Card Beeper
Visit www.menu.as
RRP £14.95
An intelligent credit card case designed to make forgetting your credit or
debit card a thing of the past. It beeps discreetly every 20 seconds until the
card is put back in place. Made from stainless steel coated with titanium and
black rubber, it also protects cards from scratches, cracks and magnetic fields.
Part of a new streamlined accessory line created by French designer Aurélien
Barbry which includes a recharging tray for mobile phones, luggage tag and
key ring.
The Black Titanium series is designed to combine functional innovation with
quality and style.
news&events
LetterBoxGifts Ltd
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
LetterBoxChocs
Telephone +44 (0)7798 601 610 or email [email protected]
RRP £3.99
A convenience gift that combines a beautifully designed card with 16 luxury Belgian
chocolates, cleverly packaged and ready to post.
Clearly labelled with the low postage costs for the UK, Europe and international
destinations LetterBoxChocs are the perfect size for fitting through the letterbox.
Available to retailers with branded and designed display unit. The chocolates have a
shelf life of nine months.
With space inside to write a personal message, the patent-pending card folds back
on itself to double as self seal packaging complete with decorative wrap and address
panel. The range includes eye-catching designs to suit most tastes and occasions.
Alessi
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Lily Pond sushi set
Telephone: +44 (0)207 518 9090 or visit www.alessi.com
RRP £46
The set consists of hand decorated plate, small plate for soy sauce,
chopsticks holder in fine bone china and melamine chopsticks.
Related items available include the Lily Bird container for soy sauce and
Lotus small bowl, also hand decorated in fine bone china.
Designed by Stefano Giovannoni with Rumiko Takeda these items are
from the OrienTales collection, part of an ongoing collaboration with the
National Palace Museum in Taiwan.
Workman
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Gallop!
Visit www.workman.com
RRP £9.99
A sturdy hardback children’s book with pictures that move using a patented technology
called Scanimation.
A source of endless fascination for children. Gallop! with its blend of animated art and lyrical
rhyme, introduces children to a variety of animal motion and takes them on a veritable ride
through the animal kingdom.
Created by Rufus Butler Seder, Scanimation is a state-of-the-art six-phase animation process.
Nutscene
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
The Snippet Twine Dolly
Telephone +44 (0)1307 468 589 or email [email protected]
From £9.99 - £12.99 (includes Nutscene twines)
Attaches securely to clothing, cutting twine on demand without the need for scissors or an
exposed blade.
Crafted in Great Britain from FSC oak or beech, the twine cutter fits in with the rest of
Nutscene’s range, sourced from natural materials from sustainable sources.
Designed in-house it was a finalist in the Biggart Baillie Awards for Innovation 2008. The
Snippet Twine Dolly will be launching at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show in May, and will be
available from mid-May onwards. Patent Pending & Design Registered.
giftfocus 15
news round up
All the latest from the Giftware Association
Entries up for Gift of the Year
The GA’s Gift of the Year competition looks
set to be bigger than ever with a 27 per cent
rise in entries for this year compared with last.
According to GA chief executive Isabel
Martinson, the products include “a lot of
interesting and well priced gift and home items,
and some great ideas that are very simple”.
This year four new categories have been
introduced - Premium/Luxury, Stationery, Card
& Wrap and Outdoor Living.
First round online judging began on April
7th. A shortlist will be drawn up, product
samples called for and judging will take place at
the GA’s Birmingham HQ on May 15th.
The winning and highly commended
products will be unveiled on June 22nd during
Summer Fair at London’s ExCel.
The panel of online judges includes Jo Percy
from John Lewis; Laura Hall of Debenhams;
Nicky King, Habitat; Claire Summers, Lakeland;
jewellery expert Janet Fitch and other leading
industry professionals.
Gift Focus Magazine is a long-term
supporter of the prestigious awards and this
year is a gold sponsor of the event.
Summer seminar programme
The GA has lined up a series of summer
seminars and workshops to be held at its
Birmingham headquarters.
On June 10th, Richard Bailey, principal at
Steeles Solicitors, and Keith Entwisle, managing
director of Caspari, will offer practical guidance
on employing an agent and look at the legal
aspects before appointment.
16 giftfocus
The duties of an agent and principal,
remuneration, rights to information and notice
and termination will also be discussed and the
case studies of issues common to agents will
be examined.
On June 11th, Mike Ganley, vice-president
of UK Operations
for Gund UK – and a
protégé of legendary
business guru Sir John
Harvey-Jones – will
discuss selling skills.
This one-day
course will provide
an overview of how
to refresh selling skills,
improve sales, increase earnings and work
smarter with new, proven techniques.
On June 12th Alan Springall, who owns
and runs a display, design and production
consultancy, will be discussing exhibition display
and merchandising.
On June 17th, John Blaskey of The Exhibiting
Agency, will hold ‘Building Your Business
and Growing Your Brand – A Masterclass in
Live Marketing’. The international exhibition
consultant has over 30 years’ experience
delivering tangible results for clients.
The cost of the agents’ seminar and
workshop is £75 + VAT for members and
£150 + VAT for non-members, while the other
seminars are each priced at £90 + VAT for
members and £180 + VAT for non-members.
For further information contact Pushpa Patel
on + 44 (0)121 237 1142 or send an email to
[email protected].
New-look GA website
The GA website is being revamped, making it
easier to use, informative and interactive for
both members and non-members.
The website – www.ga-uk.org – will be
officially re-launched at the association’s annual
meeting on Wednesday, May 7th.
It will become increasingly relevant to the
gift and home industry, focusing particularly
on legislation such as the WEEE, RoHS and
Packaging and Waste directives.
The GA also plans to introduce an enewsletter soon after the relaunch, which nonmembers will also be able to receive.
Isabel Martinson, chief executive of the GA,
comments: “This is part of our push to make
the GA virtually paper-free and will enable staff
to invest much more
time in helping existing
members and recruiting
new members.” g
Further information
For the GA log onto www.ga-uk.org
Another ‘tasty’ line from WoodWick
Imagine Caramel Apple – a tempting blend of
crisp Granny Smith apples covered in warm vanilla
caramel sauce.
Mmm…sounds good enough to eat. But
don’t do that! It is, in fact, one of 12 unique
fragrances from WoodWick’s Fusion range, which
also includes Blackberry Oak, Linen Boutique,
Raspberry Mojito, Water Mint and Wineberry.
Fusion candles retain the WoodWick
characteristics – that distinctive wooden wick
and crackling sound when they burn. But instead
of coming in plain glass containers, these 10oz
offerings are sold in beautiful hand blown, hand
painted art glass that mirrors the colours of each
particular candle.
Fraser Studios is the sole UK distributor for
the Virginia Candle Company’s WoodWick and
managing director Colin Fraser will launch Fusion
at Home & Gift in Harrogate. Because the line
did so well at the Atlanta Gift Show in March
– with orders totalling around $1.5m – Fusion will
initially only be available to existing UK stockists of
WoodWick. Twelve reed diffusers will also be sold
in the Fusion range.
Fraser Studios will also officially launch
WoodWick’s five-item festive line in Harrogate.
The range has already sold out in the United
States and only 500 packs will be available to UK
retailers who are currently enjoying booming
WoodWick sales.
Says Colin: “It’s highly unlikely that we will get any
more this year. WoodWick is a victim of its own
success. Sales are tremendous.
“Retailers tell us that it is now their best-selling
candle product. Others, who have previously
flopped with candles, tell us that WoodWick is the
only candle range that has worked for them.
“WoodWick has revolutionised the
marketplace and I can’t remember another candle
that has established itself as a brand so quickly in
the UK.”
There are now 40 WoodWick fragrances – sold
in 10oz and 22oz jars and as reed diffusers.
Colin believes that Fraser Studios is now a
major player in the UK candles’ market with
“probably the two fastest-selling candle products”
– the 10oz jars from WoodWick and the four-inch
Esque globes.
Esque accounts for a third of Colin’s sales of
Northern Lights Candles. It’s easily the fastest
seller and the first that retailers choose when
considering the brand. They then go on to buy the
other products in the range.
Esque has four different shapes and pricepoints.
Following retailers’ success with the four-inch
candle, they moved on to the medium size and
“these have gone through the roof ”. Another
medium-size offering has since been introduced.
Northern Lights Candles has added several
new funkier fragrances to the core part of its
portfolio. Elegance comprises fragranced jars and
fragranced candles, floaters and open-box votives.
Lisa McCaffrey, manager of Parks Lane Interiors,
Minehead, says: “WoodWick and Northern
Lights Candles are flying out. They are different
and I know that, having tried them, retailers are
converting to these ranges. The Esque medium
globe from Northern Lights is a particularly good
seller.” g
Fraser Studios can be contacted on
01592 774 540. Alternatively send an
email to [email protected].
Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/Pietro Sutera
all in one
The eyes of the industry will be focused on Frankfurt
this summer, with the launch of the new Decorate Life
combined show.
The new Decorate Life combined show makes
its debut in Frankfurt am Main this year from
4th to 8th July.
Incorporating five events – Tendence
Autumn and Winter, Collectione Preview
Spring and Summer, Young Living, Outdoor
Living and The Design Annual – the new show
presents an all-in-one buying event covering all
seasons, all channels of distribution, design and
mainstream, top buyers and consumers.
It is a major step for organisers Messe
Frankfurt who are taking a calculated risk in
moving the timing of Tendence forward from
its familiar date at the end of August, to the
beginning of July. The move follows feedback
from the market for an earlier time slot due to
ever-earlier ordering patterns.
“However, this risk is compensated for many
times over by the chances offered by the new
event format and the new dates,” says show
vice president Nicolette Naumann.
The combined event will be showing the
latest products for all four seasons at the
same time and place. The new brand name
Decorate Life encapsulates the broad range
of products to be seen, embracing not only
home accessories, gifts, decorative items, table
and kitchenware but also furniture, textiles and
lighting. At the same time the event has been
expanded to include new groups of exhibitors
within the new Young Living and Outdoor
Living platforms.
Collectione offers buyers the chance to
22 giftfocus
Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/Petra Welzel
In brief
show
venue
Decorate Life
Messe Frankfurt Fair and
Exhibition Centre
when
4th - 8th July 2008
organisers Messe Frankfurt
opening
Fri 4th - Mon 7th 9am-6pm
Tues 8th 9am-5pm
website
www.decorate-life.messefrankfurt.com
source companies able to deliver in large
quantities, while Tendence is a treasure trove
for boutique buyers looking for lifestyle brands,
suppliers of designer products and small
individual companies.
Collectione, which was first launched in
2005, is the most advanced of all five events,
presenting products for the spring and summer
of 2009. As a result of the integration it will see
the biggest changes of all the shows.
From two exhibition halls in 2007 it will
be staged over seven this year to include the
entire Passage section of overseas exhibitors,
previously part of Tendence. The move is
designed to give both events a more clearly
defined profile.
Tendence remains a leading international
consumer goods fair and is ideally timed
to kick off important autumn, winter and
Christmas business. Buyers use it as a decisive
order fair for gift ideas, quality table and kitchen
ware, premium home accessories as well as
innovative designer goods.
It includes numerous design shows and
events. As in the past one of this year’s
highlights will be the Personal Shopper
presentation, featuring avant-garde
international designers Ineke Hans from the
Netherlands and Jason Miller from America
who will each interpret the product world of a
certain type of consumer.
The Design Annual holds a special position
at Decorate Life and is aimed at both
professional and private visitors with an
interest in design. The third edition will be held
within the framework of Decorate Life under
the motto, “Life, home, work: the best design of
our times”.
Visitors can look forward to something
different to the usual product show - more of
an individual presentation of manufacturers
including guided tours, discussion forums and
unconventional events.
The Design Annual is a day shorter, from
4th to 7th July and opens daily from 12 noon
to 9pm. g
Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/Jean-Luc Valentin
One trade show
Hundreds of suppliers
Thousands of products
13–16 July 2008, Harrogate
where the industry loves to meet
Get ready for Home & Gift this summer, the
industry’s favourite annual show, where you’ll
find companies and brands that you won’t see
anywhere else. Feast your eyes on general
gifts, traditional gifts and collectables. Order
what you need to make your autumn, winter
and Christmas seasons. 900 exhibitors await –
all in the convivial setting of Harrogate.
Save £15 and pre-register now.
Visit www.homeandgift.co.uk
or call the ticket hotline on +44 (0)1923 690 645
General Gifts Home Accessories Greeting Cards & Stationery Design-led Gifts Fashion Accessories & Jewellery
www.homeandgift.co.uk
21st
Century
Silver
21st Century Silver have just added
over 60 additions to their fast
selling range of stunning sterling
silver designs.
Perfect for both gift shops and
jewellery retailers.
Please contact us for brochures or
better still arrange for one of our
team of professional sales agents to
show you our full sample range.
21st Century Silver Ltd,
PO Box 328, Esher, Surrey,
KT10 8YR. U.K
T + F: 020 8339 3731
E-mail: [email protected]
www.21stcenturysilver.co.uk
focus on
diary of an
SEO trial
Part 4
The vast majority of new visitors come to websites from search engines. If you want your
website to be seen in the search engines then Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is essential.
Yet the practice appears to be surrounded in secrecy, and finding a company that will
successfully optimise your website at an affordable price is a not easy.
In this the fourth installment of technology expert David Mackley’s trial with a Search Engine
Optimisation (SEO) company he reveals the ups and downs of what it’s like trying to get your
website optimised.
Key project dates so far:
• One week in: Search terms agreed. The project
plan is confirmed.
• Two weeks in: Initial ranking report shows just
how low we rank in the search engines for our
selected search terms.
• Three weeks in: I was asked to choose which
style of copy writing I preferred.
• Four weeks in: Problems giving access to
my website. SEO company add ‘performance
tracking’ to my website so they can provide me
with monthly reports.
Five weeks in: Optimisation begins…
The setup phase of the SEO project is now
complete. Now the work really begins on
optimising my website. It appears one of the first
things they do is write six or seven paragraphs
of text around each of my 20 selected search
terms. These paragraphs will become live pages
on the website. Google pays a lot of attention
to the words on a website, and uses complex
algorithms to evaluate how valuable a page is for
a visitor in relation to a particular search term.
It’s very simple, if someone types “EPoS solution
UK” into Google and they subsequently land on
a page that is well written and informative about
that phrase, then Google has done its job.
So words are important. And there is no
point trying to trick Google by typing in “EPoS
solution UK” 5,000 times. Back in the early 1990’s
it may have worked but search engines are far
more sophisticated now. Consider the size of
Google now, it has a market value of nearly $200
billion, that is comparative with BP! This value
is largely based on it being the most effective
search engine in the world. Like BP, Google
has significant research resources, but rather
than invest in oil, gas and alternative energy
exploration, Google invests in maintaining its
number one position in delivering the right web
page. So you can guarantee it is not easy to fool
Google. The very best way to optimise a set of
words for Google is to write it in the very best
way for a person (your target market) to read.
Today I received a jolly email from our SEO
project manager, which made me smile… but not
for long!
“Hi David, Cheers Up! I am pleased to present
your articles for Intelligent Retail. Please approve
the words you like most.”
Two pages of text are attached, each one
based on a search term. The first is about “EPoS
retail software”. I start to read it, and before I
get to the end of the first paragraph I wonder
what on earth is going on. The first page of the
paragraph reads:
“Automation of retail workflow is a must in
today’s competition. Gone are the days when
retailers could get by with manual operations.
In today’s harsh business climate, any retailer
worth his salt needs to make automation his
friend. Be it in terms of the operations or the
workflow, every process on a daily basis needs
to be automated. Why so? It’s because today’s
customers are far too finicky to forgive an item
out of stock. They are impatient and want things
done fast.”
Aargh! And it gets worse. It goes on to read:
“Geographical redundancy is an absolute given
in any EPoS Retail software”. What? I have
absolutely no idea what they are going on about!
The second article about “EPoS solution UK” is
just as bad.
I start to edit the copy they have provided, but
before long I give up. The structure is so poor it
just needs to be re-written. I email the project
manager stating how bad it is and he replies:
“Cheers Up! Thanks for your kind information,
we are just getting to know how to work with
each other. Have a nice day.”
Six weeks in: Changes to important
website files
The SEO company started to edit some of the
central files on our website.
giftfocus 25
diary of an SEO trial part 4
All eCommerce websites have central engines
that control important aspects of the site. Great
care must be taken when editing these as bugs
can be introduced quite easily. Just as any selfrespecting website company would want to do,
we wanted to tightly control changes to these
files. So rather than letting them edit the live
site directly we set up a development website
specifically for them to make changes and test
in a safe environment. We gave them detailed
instructions on how to make changes to this
site but they are still sending me files and asking
me to upload them myself. I have probably
communicated this five times by now, mildly
frustrating! This is the downside of working with
such a remote company, language is a bit of a
barrier at times.
A tip here for anyone looking to appoint an
SEO company. Before appointing a company, ask
your web designers how they will grant access
for the SEO company to edit your website. They
may only give restricted access for fear of bugs
being introduced (bugs can cause problems for
your web visitors or even bring the site down,
and it may well be left to the web company to
get the site working again). Find out how they
can work together with the SEO company
before appointing them. It can be easier if the
web design company can do the SEO as they
have all the access rights they need.
Seven weeks in: New copy
Exciting times, my revised copy is in. This time
they have tried a different search phrase, “EPoS
26 giftfocus
equipment software”.
It starts off reasonably well enough, but as I read
on it is still nowhere near the standard I would
want on my website. It’s important these words
are right because they are the first thing visitors
will read when clicking from Google. Again I
write back and ask them to try again.
Eight weeks in: Month two ranking report
I received a report showing no improvement
whatsoever in how my website responds in the
search engines for my selected search phrases.
Well, to be honest there was an improvement
for the term “Retail Software Programs” in
MSN (a comparative minnow to Google) which
changed from being not listed to being 48th in
the list. There were no improvements in Google
or Yahoo. I expected this though, need to give
the program at least four to six months to really
start to have an effect.
RANKING REPORT 2
• Number of my chosen search terms ranked
1-10: In Google: 0 In Yahoo: 0 in MSN: 1
• Number of my chosen search terms ranked
11-20: In Google: 0 In Yahoo: 0 in MSN: 1
• % of total ranking: 1.1%
Next issue – In part five see what measures I
have to take to get my copy written properly,
and we actually start to see some effect on
Google ranking position. g
David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of
Intelligent Retail, leaders in Multichannel EPoS
and Websites for gift shops. He can be contacted
on 0845 680 0126 or dmackley@intelligentretail.
co.uk.
100% Natural Wax Candles,
made with Soya and Palm.
Essential oils, large range of
glass, vases and pillar candles.
Natural Creams, Lotions and
Bath Products, Paraben and
Sulphate Free.
Heaven Scent Incense Ltd
Tel: 01225 868788
e: [email protected]
The Wharf, Frome Road,
Bradford upon Avon, Wilts.
4DFOUFE$SZTUBMT
3BJOCPX3PDLT
All natural, non-toxic, earth friendly
and long lasting
6 Gloucester Road, Sawtry PE28 5NB
Tel: 01487 830490
Mobile: 07801 721640
www.scentedcrystals.co.uk
5IF/P8PSMEXJEF#SBOEGSPNUIF64"
advertising feature
INSPIRE YOUR CUSTOMERS
AND CAPTURE NEW SALES
OPPORTUNITIES
Create maximum impact in your store with Yankee Candle®’s brand new summer fragrances and
complementing display stand. The new Beach Walk™ fragrance offers the refreshing blend of salt
water and sea musk teamed with sunny notes of tangerine and orange blossom which suggests
memories of beach holidays and romantic getaways.
To enhance the fragrance launch, Yankee Candle® has themed the summer as Beach Club, offering you
the opportunity to display a fragrance assortment for the summer months on everyone’s favourite
thought – holidays!
Designed to raise brand awareness and capture attention, the display stand’s striking graphics feature
a glorious beach scene to reflect the Beach Club theme, taking your customers on a colourful journey
into summer.
To maximise selling potential from the fragrance range, stock the five Yankee Candle® recommended
fragrances in the Beach Club display stands. This will create maximum visual impact for your customers.
Fragrances are the new Beach
Walk™, Sun & Sand™, Amber
Glow, Water Garden™ and
Midnight Cove™ – great
colours and great fragrances,
the perfect selling combination!
For further information please
contact Yankee Candle® 0800 917
9625 or visit the new website at
www.yankeecandle.co.uk
28 giftfocus
candles
burning brightly
Sophie Conran for Portmeirion
Continued demand for luxury and pampering
products is helping to fan the flames of the
candle and home fragrance market.
Consumers are increasingly looking for ‘metime’ treats, either as an indulgent self-purchase
or luxury gift.
People are spending more and more
time and money on creating the perfect
atmosphere at home. Candles used as part
of the bathing ritual and growing interest in
aromatherapy and spa treatments have helped
fuel demand.
Rising call for individual scents has
spearheaded the launch of a plethora of luxury
and niche brands and increasingly scents are
being launched to reflect a season or mood.
The humble air freshener has also enjoyed
a renaissance. Clever marketing has triggered
a shift in consumer perception transforming it
from everyday commodity to luxury item.
The market has seen a flood of ambient
scents in every conceivable format, fragrance
and price range.
Green credentials also increasingly play a
significant role in consumer buying decisions.
Clive Harper, managing director of Yankee
Candle® Europe says: “There are many
influences on the market, fashion and the
colours used in home decoration, are a
primary influence.
“Secondly, there is a demand for high quality
products, driven by economic reasons, people
wanting to get the most from the money
they earn and finally, the need for feeling
good about ourselves. By this I mean that the
environment around us is high on people’s
agenda, therefore natural, clean fragrances are
high priorities.
“The personal care and spa market
continues to grow and develop at a significant
Yankee Candle
Candles continue to burn brightly as a major
sector in the gift market, along with a growing
call for luxury and evocative home fragrances.
In a fiercely competitive market products with
a point of difference are likely to steal the
limelight. Read on to find out more…
pace. The general feeling of well being is
high on people’s agenda and items such as
fragranced candles are in high usage. Similarly,
people tend to pamper themselves in the
home with the use of essential oils and
associated products. Generally Yankee Candle
feel that the growth in this market evolves
around products which relax, calm and
enhance the well being experience.”
Cheshire company Beauty Connection is
the sole European importer of Abode Aroma,
an innovative home fragrance diffuser range.
This year the company celebrates both its
10th anniversary and the runaway sales of the
Australian product, which is turning into its
best-selling line.
Louise Marley,
who launched Beauty
Connection in 1988 with
husband Alistair, says
reaction to the product
has been outstanding
since they introduced it.
Louise explains: “There
is a massive growth of
diffusers in the marketplace - they are seen
as the no-fuss alternative to scented candles
and the new ‘must have’ accessory for the best
dressed homes. Worldwide sales are currently
rising by 300 per cent a year and we are
excited about being able to take advantage of
this situation.”
“We are delighted about the way Abode
Aroma is taking off - and the level of repeat
business it is generating.”
Carol Wright of Portmeirion Potteries
comments: “Our research shows that scented
candles remain as popular as ever.
“The purchase of scented candles is driven
by the uniqueness of the design, the pleasing
aesthetics of the packaging and the fragrance.”
She explains that growing awareness of
environmental issues is encouraging consumers
to look for longevity in products and a
multifunctional purpose.
“Hence the fact that our Botanic Garden
votives have been created so they can be
used again after the candles have been burnt.
The same applies to our Sophie Conran
range, once used, the bowls are then ready for
cooking, serving and even as planters.”
The St Eval Candle Company has
introduced a new natural spring collection
– ‘As Nature Intended’.
With flock being hailed this season’s musthave textile, the four delicately patterned glass
candles are adorned with an eye-catching
butterfly pattern, available in colours of soft
green, bright blue, bold brown and delicate
pink. Each candle contains natural vegetable
wax, a cotton wick and essential oils to be
‘as nature intended’ and has a burn time of
approximately 50 hours.
Visit www.stevalcandlecompany.co.uk
to view more. g
St Eval Candle
Company
giftfocus 29
most wanted
Scents and candles to fly off the shelves
Gifts and treats
Heart Warmers candles from Seagull look set to be a
big hit for UK distributor Xystos. The Canadian range
is targeted at major occasions throughout the year
and features candles with sentimental inscriptions in
clay-finished, pastel-coloured holders. A selection of
Heart Warmers are housed in musical gift boxes, and
once the candle is burnt it can be replaced with a
tealight. Another dimension can be added to the gift as
a message can be written in a special panel on the gift
box and also on a lozenge on the item itself. To find out
more email [email protected].
Yankee Candle has
launched the famous
Housewarmer Jar shape
in a Car Gel so that
consumers can enjoy
their favourite candle
shape, as well as their
favourite fragrances,
on the move. The
Housewarmer
range is a popular
selling candle line
and Yankee’s signature
style, which is easily recognisable to
consumers. The new products are available
in two variety packs, offering a selection of
fragrances in one pack or as a bonus pack
of three of the same fragrance. The Car Gels
make a great impulse purchase to display
at a till point, offering an odour eliminating agent to
fragrance cars, caravans and vans or those little nooks
in the home like closets, under the stairs or the loo.
For further information access the new look website
www.yankeecandle.co.uk.
30 giftfocus
The licensed Juicy Lucy range from Portmeirion
Potteries includes 12 hard to resist Fairy Wishing
candles. The madcap world of Juicy Lucy, created
by Lucy Heavens, is already established in other
gift and retail sectors for 2008. Decorated with fun
illustrations of fairies alongside sweet sentiments
the range covers gifting occasions for mums, dads,
teachers and best friends to name but a few.
Packaged and merchandised for immediate impact, Juicy Lucy is expected to be a
big hit. To find out more access www.portmeirion.co.uk.
Family run giftware suppliers Black Ginger
enjoyed tremendous interest in their novelty
candles during their launch at Spring Fair,
Birmingham in February this year. Ranges feature
everything from farmyard characters, crates of
scented fruits and Easter chickens to ornate
birdbaths, boxed hyacinths and cacti. Christmas
orders have already started coming in and a
separate seasonal catalogue of festive candles is
in the final stages of production. For full details
email [email protected].
From their inspirational home in the heart of
Scotland, Scottish Fine Soaps lovingly create
beautiful ranges. Their products carry the
essential elements of Scotland blended with
ethically sourced ingredients from all around.
With ranges that appeal to a broad, global
market, their products are constantly evolving
to meet and anticipate consumer demand.
Their Ambient Travel Candles, are hand
poured and infused with the romantic scents
of Heather, Bluebell and Moor created to
transport the recipient to a secret Scottish
hideaway. To find out more access the website
www.scottishfinesoaps.com.
For the past 13 years Heaven Scent
Incense Ltd has been producing 100 per
cent organic, sustainable wax candles for
environmentally aware customers who
appreciate clean burning and additive
free gifts. The company's newest candles
are handmade from a natural plant
source in scents of soothing, balancing
lavender and energising lemon and tea
tree oil. Using no petroleum based wax
or animal products, Heaven Scent's eco
friendly items already have a proven sales
record in the UK and abroad. Visit www.
heavenscent.co.uk for more information.
candles
Melting pieces of perfume are the newest addition to the traditional
Durance en Provence home fragrance range, available through Grafton
International. When melted in the branded, white terracotta perfume
warmer, the authentic products provide immediate, intense diffusion in
around 10 minutes. Each luxurious box has an RRP of £12.00 and contains
eight cubes of perfume available in scents native to the French countryside,
like invigorating orange and cinnamon, fresh candied lemon and soothing
lavender. To find out more visit www.graftons.co.uk.
Aromatic Diffusers from Abode Aroma, are a contemporary
approach to scenting space. Quality and longevity has ensured
repeat business of the current range of 14 fragrances, which will
be extended this season with the launch of the new White Plum
scent. The products offer not only appealing aromas, but also
visually stylish packaging and vibrant colours, which maximise
merchandising potential and create great impact in store. Further
details of the range, which also includes candles and soaps, can
be found at www.abodearoma.com.
Room fragrances
Heart of the Country is offering new fragrances in their selection
of products from the Greenleaf range, which boasts 27 fragrances
available in sachets, jar candles, sprays, votives, petals, potpourri's
and oils. The American made product range includes the market
leading Scented Sachets. Greenleaf ’s “Original” Scented Sachets
contain specially blended oils, which are encapsulated for maximum
strength and product life. The new fragrances are Blushing Tulips
and Evening Twilight. Put a Greenleaf Scented Sachet in any room
to enjoy fragrances for up to four months. Also new are the all
natural soy and vegetable blend wax candles which the company
says are totally biodegradable and will burn 30 to 50 per cent
longer than traditional paraffin based candles. Email
[email protected] for further details.
Scented Crystals Ltd have been selling the world famous
“Rainbow Rocks” into Europe for over 12 months with
massive success. Customers are looking for the next big
thing in home fragrance that's different and unique.
Rainbow Rocks are the newest in home air fresheners.
All natural, flame free and non-toxic, the crystals are
safe for those with children and pets. There’s no waste
as the crystals can be used over and over again with the
occasional splash of refresher oil. Rainbow Rocks are
harvested from various inlets in the Caribbean islands.
Due to their mineral content, the crystals release ions
that freshen and revitalise the air. Each crystal is infused
with fine flower and plant derived fragrances. For more
information send an email to [email protected].
The stylish range of products from
The Japanese Shop includes exclusive
new incense and fragrances direct
from Japan. Attractive, illustrated
boxes of up to 100 sticks of incense
are supported by porcelain incense
holders, scented room spray, and
simple bamboo sticks and oil room
fragrance. The high quality, organic
incense box sets are available in
traditional Japanese scents such as
cherry blossom, plum and lavender,
and bamboo. Prices range from £3.99
for a box of incense to £5.99 for the
room fragrance. To find out more visit
www.thejapaneseshop.co.uk.
giftfocus 31
candles
Seasonal
The On the Terrace range from Shearer Candles is set to become the
ultimate outdoor candle collection, featuring truly tropical citronella and
sweet mango scents. The collection is great for creating an illuminating
glow at outdoor occasions including BBQ’s, parties and romantic alfresco
dining and includes complementary garden accessories like bamboo
torch candles and traditional lanterns. Access www.shearer-candles.com
for further details.
Created to evoke fond memories, the highly fragranced ‘Timeless’
collection from Colony Gift Corporation Ltd's premium Wax Lyrical
brand blends the finest scented wax and oils to awaken the senses
to times gone by. Capturing a lifetime of memories, the nostalgic
collection includes familiar aromas like Spring Clean, Frosty Mornings,
and Seaside Holidays, which features soft, crisp marine notes. Wax
Lyrical ‘Timeless’ is available in a range of fragrance formats such as
wax filled jars, scented tealights, home scented blooms or fragranced
reed diffusers. For more information visit www.colony.com.
The successful WoodWick brand, available through distributor Fraser
Studios, continues to grow with the sumptuous new Christmas
range. The five-item festive line will be launched at Home & Gift, in
Harrogate this July with only 500 packs available to lucky UK retailers.
The 10oz and 22oz jars will retail for £14.99 and £19.99 respectively,
while reed diffusers will have an RRP of £23.99. The Fusion range of
candles and reed diffusers will also be launched this summer, with the
introduction of 12 unique fragrances including Caramel Apple and
Raspberry Mojito. The items will be sold in new hand blown, hand
painted art glass to mirror the colour of each candle. The Northern
Lights Candles portfolio is also expanding with new fragrances such
as Elegance, which comprises fragranced jars and candles, floaters
and open-box votives. To find out more about the products email
[email protected].
The new Winter Berries range from family run company Fikkerts Ltd
is inspired by the brightest of winter berries, with a fragrance to evoke
memories of cosy social gatherings around a roaring log fire. The
natural products include the large truckle candle, which has five wicks
and burns for over 80 hours. The traditional, English made candles
promise to bring fragrant light to the darkest of corners and the room
spray can be used on logs or fir cones. For more information visit
www.fikkerts.com.
The Spring collection from Noodle includes a range of gifts featuring
photographic designs of trees, flowers and stunning views of the British
countryside. Amongst the new items is the four seasons scented
candles range. The candles are filled in the UK using pure vegetable
wax, essential oils and a natural cotton wick. The scent for each candle
is inspired by its season, and once you have used up the wax, you
can still use the glass with a night-light to re-create the sun flickering
through the branches. Visit www.noodleonline.com for further details.
giftfocus 33
Add
jec
t
ese Shop
pan
a
J
The
The Japanese Shop
turning
japanese
Japanese design is admired universally for its simplicity, colour
and charm. Famed for pure shapes, clean lines and uncluttered
spaces influences from Japan have impacted widely in interior
design and are currently proving popular in the giftware
industry too!
The Japanese Shop was established in 1998
in response to the phenomenal growth of
interest in the Japanese lifestyle.
The array of products offered includes
contemporary and traditional tableware,
glamorous kimono style house robes, bangles,
toiletries, detailed origami (washi) paper,
kokeshi dolls, lucky cats and many other
colourful items. Many of the products are
imported exclusively by the company, which
was founded by Jez and Hiromi Willard after
they returned to the UK from living in Japan.
They were enthralled by the beauty and
simplicity of Japanese design as well as the
quality and attention to detail in traditional
Japanese gifts. The Japanese Shop now sells
36 giftfocus
their largely exclusive range of distinctive
Japanese gifts across the UK and into
continental Europe.
“Our experience is that there is a real
appetite from customers for gifts which are a
little bit different, well designed and beautifully
presented!” explains Jez.
“The question often arises as to why
Japanese style and design is so popular in the
West, not just the UK. The most interesting
answer we have seen is that so much of
the best in Japanese drawing, painting and
writing has a simplicity that seems to distil a
huge complexity. Simplicity is never simple
and for many requires a long period of quiet
contemplation, which we in the West often
associate with Buddhism and meditation.”
Access www.thejapaneseshop.co.uk to
view the comprehensive range.
The Kimono range, designed in-house from
constantly evolving company Disaster
Designs is inspired by vibrant Japanese
colours, offbeat creativity and luxurious textiles.
Some pieces including the money boxes are
made by hand from kimono fabrics sourced
directly from Japan, and feature appealing
animal characters. Also included in the range
are fun charms, funky bags, modish compacts
and useful doorstops, as well as a host of
other whimsical pieces. Contact Disaster
Designs on +44 (0)1323 441 444 or by
emailing [email protected] for
more information.
Disaster Designs
Disaster Designs
M.E.G
Japanese style has an enduring appeal.
Rooted in tradition many of the familiar
styles and designs have survived through
centuries, inspiring new generations of
designers looking to create contemporary
products from ancient, cultural influences.
Symbolism and subtle simplicity are key
elements, as well as colour and homage
to nature.
Japanese style is not just a niche market in
the Western world but has developed broad
appeal through a range of different sectors,
including giftware.
A growing number of Japanese-style product
ranges have been introduced to the market
from fun and funky novelty lines and stylish
accessories to sensual and evocative home
fragrance, bath and body products.
japanese style
in Ar ts
La Cafetière
Mandarin
Ar ts
Mandar
Puckator Ltd has grown significantly in the
last five years, and the company’s traditional
Japanese range in particular has won many
admirers. The range features a selection of
enchanting Geishas, strong Samurais and
detailed Kendo Warrior figures, each one
depicting a traditional aspect of Japanese life.
Visit www.puckator.co.uk for details.
The Mo
nster Fa
ctor y
Mandarin Arts specialise in supplying
products from the Far East. They offer a
diverse range of products influenced by
Japanese culture including silky brocade
kimonos, shoji screens and lamps, Japanese
chopsticks, Samurai and Japanese lady figurines
and box framed pictures and origami mobiles.
Log onto www.mandarinarts.co.uk
or email [email protected] for
further information.
Puckator
The new Master Manga Art set from
Derwent has all an aspiring artist needs to
get started in the world of Japanese-style
comic art. There are 12 special Derwent
Inktense pencils in the set to create vivid inklike colour, plus a non-soluble outliner pencil
and brush. As well as an A4 sketchbook, which
contains 25 sheets of 200 gsm acid-free paper,
there is also a 20 page tutorial created by
professional Manga and video games artist
Hayden Scott Baron “Dock”. The guide gives
step-by-step instructions to help artists master
the Manga style, before moving on to three
great main projects. Further details available
from the website at www.pencils.co.uk.
Derwen
The Geisha tea set designed exclusively for La
Cafetière by UK designer Alison Appleton
is the first in a series of products from the
company highlighting ‘teas of the world’.
Alison feels that, as a nation, our fascination
with the East spans centuries. “The Geisha
tea set was inspired by the Japanese tea
ceremony, designed to relax the mind and
honour purity, beauty, harmony and serenity.
“The beautifully finished porcelain
body with traditional cast iron handle
combines traditional Japanese materials in a
contemporary and simple style”, she explains.
The soft aqua glaze of the teapot and small,
traditional cups, represent serenity, purity
and peace. “Presenting the set in a bamboo
box, another association with the Orient,
not only makes an attractive gift but also has
the practical use of doubling as a small tray”,
Alison adds.
For those not acquainted with Japanese
teas, there is also an information booklet
included and key instructions on how to
perform a Japanese tea ceremony. The Geisha
Tea Set retails at £24.99 and more details can
be found at www.lacafetiere.com.
Innovative British company Addject aims to
be a one-stop-shop for fun and functional gifts,
gadgets and toys. One of their latest products
is the bright and colourful Kabuki Bottle
Opener, a novel gift to add personality to any
kitchen or bar. Inspired by elaborate Japanese
face make-up, the practical and eye-catching
product offers easy leverage for opening
bottles, and is available in bold colours
including blue, red, orange and yellow. Visit
www.addject.com for more information.
The “Kimmidoll” brand concept, distributed
throughout the UK and Ireland by M.E.G,
is fundamentally based on the traditional art
form of Japanese Kokeshi doll making, which
dates back to around 1830. It is believed
that peasant farmers hand-made these dolls
as tokens of love and friendship to family
and friends. Each doll has an individual
profile collector’s card as well as a character
definition on the packaging, like Ayame, said to
bring a sense of gratitude to the recipient.
Kimmidoll retail from £3.99 and were
launched at Spring Fair, Birmingham. To find
out more call +44 (0)287 034 2555.
The Monster Factory has become
synonymous with imaginative, eye-catching
gifts with consumer appeal. Their MoPod,
the ultimate mobile phone accessory from
Japan, won a Gift of the Year Award 2007. The
pod interacts with mobiles, causing the zany
characters inside to flash and spin whenever
a call, text message, email, or voice message
comes in.
Access www.themonsterfactory.com
to find out more. g
t
giftfocus 37
insurance check
protecting your most
important assets
In the latest of our insurance health checks Jim Pittman ACII Chartered Insurance Broker of TH
March & Co Limited looks at how businesses can best protect a valuable yet often overlooked
asset – their staff.
What is important
to the success
of your business?
Your customers
are important. So
are your stock
and premises. The
chances are you will
do everything you
Jim Pittman
can to protect them
– but what about the key people within your
business? Are you going to be able to satisfy
your customers’ needs without them?
It is often said that it is people who are
the most important asset to a business so
shouldn’t protecting them be your highest
priority? Certain individuals may be vital to
your future and it is essential that you identify
them and protect your business against their
loss in the event of illness or death. Examples
of key people in the business could be sales
executives, designers, directors or shareholders
– basically anybody who makes a major
contribution to the profitability of a business.
Think about your business and how you
attain your profits and consider the following:
• What if one of your most important sales
executives were to die or get a critical illness?
What would be the impact on profits?
• What if your technical specialist was unable
to work for a long period of time? What
would you do?
• What if the person who has guaranteed
the loans of the business was to die? What
would be the view of the lending banks?
• What if a key employee was to become
seriously ill for a long period? How long would
you have to pay his salary for? How expensive
would it be to replace him?
It is often said that it is people
who are the most important
asset to a business so shouldn’t
protecting them be your
highest priority?
Until a key person’s role is filled you could be
losing money. You could miss opportunities
with customers or suppliers – in the worst
case you may even have to close….. So how
does a keyman policy work?
The policy is owned and paid for by the
business and in the event of a claim the benefit
is payable to the business to use as it sees fit
to mitigate the impact of any loss. Depending
on individual circumstances the proceeds may
be tax free. Whatever happens, the business
will have a lump sum readily available, or an
income stream to help cover ongoing salary
obligations. What this means is that you will
have the time and money to recruit and
integrate a replacement, you will be able to
repay those outstanding bank loans or acquire
the finance you wanted for expansion. It
could mean the difference between success
and failure for your business. It needn’t be
expensive either with minimum premiums
starting at around £7.50 per month.
With statistics showing an increasing cost to
industry as a result of illness and absence isn’t
it about time you included your key employees
amongst your insurance priorities?
T H March & Co Limited are authorised and
regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
For specialist advice call their life department
on 0207 405 0009 who will be happy to help. g
Further information
T H March is a well-established family
business founded in 1887. With offices in
London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow,
Sevenoaks and Yelverton, near Plymouth,
the company has departments covering
household, motor, travel, commercial and
scheme insurance. To find out more visit
the website www.thmarch.co.uk.
giftfocus 39
Nostalgic and retro-style products continue
to find favour with today’s consumers. Read
on to discover the latest lines to evoke fond
memories of yesteryear…
Russimco
Russimco
all our
yesteryears
Garden Trading
py
Pop
Wild and Wolf
Historystore
They say what goes around comes around!
Drawing inspiration from the past today’s
consumers can enjoy the flavour of bygone
days with a contemporary twist.
The trend for nostalgia has spawned an
eclectic mix of products from traditional
toys and baby gifts to home accessories
and toiletries with bags of old style charm
brought bang up to date.
New lines that bring back fond memories
for some also appeal to a whole new
generation of fans looking for that special
something different.
For good old-fashioned fun Russimco offer an
entire collection of traditional toys and games
with retro flair.
With authentic box artwork and styling, the
Retro collection includes brand new versions
of old favourites like the popular game of
Magnetic Fishing.
Time-honoured classics available include the
Beetle Game and Laripina, a fun marble-run
game from the 1920s, and Flipping Fishes – a
traditional 1930s parlour game.
For more information on the range contact
Toby Davies at Russimco on +44 (0)1278 723
450 or email [email protected].
Historystore Ltd draws on a vast archive of
40 giftfocus
material for its distinctive range of stationery
and greeting cards suitable for all occasions, for
both adults and children.
The company’s range of gift items includes
tea towels, candles, kaleidoscopes and more.
They have been created from a selection of
timeless images from their extensive collection
of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian
documents. Founder of the business Claire
Scott explains the appeal of the range lies in
its gentle humour, point of difference and
high quality.
“We have also always fought to maintain
our production in the UK, which we find is
increasingly important to people,” she adds.
Call +44 (0)1258 880 841 or visit the
website www.historystore.co.uk to find out
more details.
Grafton International’s Dr Rose Gardener’s
Salve has bags of old-style apothecary charm
with all the healing benefits of traditional
herbal preparations.
The protective, all-natural healing balm is
part of the Dr Rose range from Rose & Co.
The natural products work hard to relieve
aches and pains the time-honoured way and
contain pure vegetable oils, butters and waxes
and a high percentage of specially blended
essential oils. To add to the nostalgic feel,
the products are all packaged in traditional
materials like glass, paper, card and tin.
Call +44 (0)1827 253 328 or visit the
website www.graftons.co.uk for details.
Charles Buchan was a professional footballer
before and after World War I and then began
an illustrious career as a sports journalist.
Back in 1951 he produced Britain’s first
glossy football magazine” Charles Buchan’s
Football Monthly”, which quickly became
the voice of football, selling 100,000 copies
a month. Wild & Wolf have used illustrations
from the magazines in a photo montage
spanning two decades of football nostalgia to
produce a range of luxury men’s gifts.
Using a new method of printing onto real
and faux leather the product line includes
leather wallets, vacuum flasks, hip flasks, wash
bags and footballs.
The licensed range has been produced in
partnership with the Charles Buchan Estate.
To find out more visit www.wildandwolf.com
or call +44 (0)1225 789 909.
Epitomising the trend for futures past
Wedgwood has been continuing its
exploration of the company archives and
nostalgia
Grafton
Internati
onal
Wedgewood
Hope and Greenwood
Poppy
has re-interpreted some of its most beautiful
and timeless designs.
As tea drinking continues its renaissance,
the company adds a touch of romance and
glamour to this quintessentially English ritual
with its latest introductions to the stunning
Harlequin Collection.
With vintage embellishments and beautiful
packaging the new additions provide a full
range of afternoon tea items as well as a host
of indulgent new gifting opportunities.
The Polka Dot teacup with its period detail
quickly became a best seller after the launch
of the Harlequin Collection last year.
Now Wedgwood has taken it one-step
further to develop the full range. The unusual
shape of the teacup, drawn from the world
famous Wedgwood archives, has been
extended to include a teapot, plates, sugar and
cream and a cake stand to complement the
original theme of vintage beauty.
Three new pastel shades, pink, light
turquoise and pale yellow, have been
introduced to the primary green. Matching
coffee cup and saucer is also available.
Both the Polka Dot gifting sets and
individual items are luxuriously gift packaged in
specially designed Harlequin Collection boxes.
Visit www.wedgwood.com or telephone
+44 (0)1782 204 141 for further details.
Poppy Ltd was established by Michael and
Stephanie Richardson from their shop in Yarmon-Tees in 1980 to create bright, bold prints
for nursery décor. Their daughter Bryony
has taken over the reins and is working to
continue the firm’s traditions.
She designs fabrics depicting the exciting
adventures of Poppy and her dog Fred. The
100 per cent cotton fabrics evoke home-made
wholesomeness and fun, a 1950s-inspired
innocent time of imaginative play.
The clothing is complemented by a novel
series of co-ordinating toys, gift sets and makewith-mum kits, which include greeting cards,
peg dolls, rag dolls, baking and picnic sets and
Punch & Judy.
The giftsets are designed to accompany the
childrenswear, with fabrics mixing with other
sustainable materials such as bamboo and
wood to create items that are built to last and
be passed on.
“In a world where children grow up
too fast, we have tried to produce a range
of products which allow children to be
children and not little adults. I have drawn
my inspiration from my own care-free happy
childhood in North Yorkshire,” says Bryony.
For further information visit the website
www.poppy-children.co.uk.
Hope and Greenwood is a company
steeped in nostalgia as purveyors of splendid,
traditional confectionery.
They offer a world of favourite childhood
treats for all those who hanker after the
bygone days of good old-fashioned puddings
and rhubarb and custard sweets that made
the roof of your mouth sore.
Products include nostalgic British sweets,
truffles, organic chocolate buttons and organic
chocolate pudding bars. Their nostalgic
confectionery ranges from sweet tobacco to
flying saucers and sherbet lemons to a haven
of different varieties of liquorice.
The jolly Bumper Box is crammed with
favourite childhood confections plus a splendid
pop gun, while their organic chocolate bars
are based on favourite nostalgic cakes and
puddings like apple pie and spotted dick.
Visit the website www.hopeandgreenwood.
co.uk to find out more.
All Garden Trading products are inspired by
traditional designs, quintessentially English but
with a contemporary twist to make them
suitable for modern living.
Their set of 12 fridge magnets feature
funky retro designs including ‘Seafood – our
Speciality’ and ‘Cooking by Appointment Only’,
which have replaced Mexican Dishes and
Twinkle Beverages. For further details contact
[email protected] or visit the website
www.gardentrading.co.uk. g
giftfocus 41
Where else will you find twice as many gift companies than any other
show in London this summer?
Over 700 exhibitors will be at Pulse waiting for you. Companies include: Present Time,
Jellycat, Disaster Designs, Two’s Company by Mulhouse, Reisenthel, Wild and Wolf, Emily
Readett-Bayley, Scandi Chic, Home By Guru, Culinary Concepts, Bombay Duck, Nina
Campbell and Thorsten Van Elten amongst many others.
Spot exciting brands. Spot brand new companies. Spot creative talent at Launchpad –
even bigger than last year. Spot fresh opportunities at our specialist retail seminars.
Make it to one trade show this summer, make it to Pulse. Save yourself £10 and
register for FREE today at www.pulse-london.com to top up on a thousand-and-one
new products and ideas.
At Pulse you will also discover home accessories, fashion accessories, jewellery &
clothing and bath & body products.
Strictly trade only.
Ka
mu
pulse
spot something different
Pulse is at the heart of cutting edge design and
this summer will be serving up a fresh new
menu of delights to revive and inspire.
Spot something different at Pulse 2008 and
get inspired for the season ahead.
Now in its sixth year the show, being held
at London’s Earls Court from 1st to 3rd June,
is billed as the place to go to spot fresh new
products, brand new companies and exciting
creative talent.
Zoned into five different sectors, this
year’s event will welcome over 700 selected
exhibitors presenting an array of design-led gift
products, high-end toiletries, the latest fashion
accessories and jewellery, exciting new ideas
for the garden and home and more.
Organisers Clarion Retail have travelled
the world to ensure that Pulse 2008 offers
a hotbed of new talent with over 300 new
exhibitors, many of whom will be showcasing
their products and
designs for the first
time this year.
Show director
Neil Gaisford
comments: “We
have worked hard
to showcase new
products and
designs with more
new exhibitors than
ever before.”
Disaster
Soop Designs
Designs
website
Pulse
Earls Court One, London
1st - 3rd June 2008
Clarion Retail
Sun-Mon 9.30am-5pm
Tues 9.30-5pm
www.pulse-london.com
Jellycat
In brief
show
venue
when
organisers
opening times
Discover tomorrow’s creative talent today
at Launchpad an initiative endorsed by Liberty
and supported by Normann Copenhagen,
showcasing 115 up and coming exhibitors
brimming with ideas and creativity.
Michelle Alger, furniture and lighting buyer
for Liberty’s is this year’s mentor. She will be
selecting the winner of the Liberty Award to
best newcomer, which will be announced on
the first day of the show.
She comments: “As a buyer discovering
great new design is an exciting and essential
part of my job – a setting like Launchpad is
the ideal source of inspiration and new talent.”
Normann Copenhagen is also presenting an
award for the best new product in Launchpad.
The winner will receive a listing of their
product in the Normann Copenhagen store.
Central Saint Martins College of Art and
Design will be showcasing new products
from design graduates, as well as prototype
products from current students so buyers can
meets the stars of the future.
New work on show will include ceramics,
tableware, glass, jewellery, lighting and gifts.
Pulse has also been working closely with
Echochamber to design and build a central
product feature incorporating the ‘Spot
Something Different’ theme.
“The feature is created by Echochamber, a
team of retail experts who travel the globe
in search of new and innovative stores. They
have constructed a gallery space that takes
you on a whirlwind tour of the world’s most
creative and exciting shop windows,” explains
Neil Gaisford.
There will be a series of retail surgeries
open to all visitors and exhibitors at the show,
offering free advice to assist and develop new
and existing businesses. These will be oneon-one appointments with industry experts
offering advice on topics including Internet
retailing, visual merchandising, trends and PR.
Pre-booking is available online.
A series of seminars will also be held
featuring key speakers covering essential
aspects of retail.
Contemporary Britain will highlight the very
best in British design, which makes up 85 per
cent of the show, featuring a selection of the
most exciting, up-and-coming designers.
Pulse will also feature a selective group of
the best international designers and brands
including major American brands like Timmy
Woods, who designed the Eiffel Tower
handbag, as seen on the Sex & The City film. g
giftfocus 43
Tel: 01753 892603
www.ladybughome.co.uk
THAI ORIGINS LTD
PULSE STAND
Number U44
E.MAIL: [email protected]
contact name: karen, Lizzie and Emma
TEL/FAX 01382 730799 E-MAIL [email protected]
www.thaiorigins.co.uk
pulse
exhibitor profiles
Poltsa
Stand T60
www.poltsa.co.uk
Watch out for the funky new Luna Llena range at Pulse, a collection
of heavily embellished handbags supplied by Poltsa, best known for
their range of leather handbags and accessories handmade in Spain.
Inspired by the beauty of the African landscape, the Barcelona based
designer combines suede, leather, mock croc and fabric in both
animal prints and plain shades to reflect the spirit of the African
continent. The eclectic range has been made by craft workers in India,
and each item is hand embellished for an individual look. Wholesale
prices range from £8.00 up to £22.00.
Grafton International Ltd
Stand P70
www.graftons.co.uk
Grafton International distributes a wide range of high quality bath, body
and home brands sourced from around the world. At Pulse 2008 the
company will be launching new bath and body brand Figs & Rouge,
which is 100 per cent natural and organic. Badger Mind Balms will
also be new for the show, along with Melting Pieces of Perfume from
Durance en Provence, Cherry Carmex and brand new products from
Rose & Co.
Dora Designs Ltd
Stand F57
www.doradesigns.co.uk
After a successful first year at Pulse in 2007, Dora Designs is
returning to the exhibition with even more highly sought after home
accessories and gifts. The event will provide a first look at new items
set to be introduced in the latter half of the year. These include
additions to the dog and cat range, featuring paperweights, a new
range of cute and practical doorstops and other traditional and
exciting additions.
Takkoda
Stand B74
www.takkoda.com
This season Takkoda is adding to
its portfolio with a range of kids’
accessories and stationery that is
guaranteed to raise a smile. The
range comprises a trendy tote bag,
a small wash bag, two pencil cases
and a purse, all made from soft and
durable cotton oilcloth. The fabric
has been printed with super-sharp
images of kids’ favourite pets from
Takkoda’s quirky greeting card
range. The innovative designs will
have broad appeal and have been
positioned to make great pocket
money purchases or gifts.
giftfocus 45
exhibitor profiles
Gift Focus
Stand J69a
www.giftfocus.com
Visit the Gift Focus stand where you can pick up a copy of our latest
issue and sign up for a free UK subscription to receive a regular copy of
your favourite magazine. Log on to our website for further information.
Watch This Space
Stand T67
Tel: +44 (0)1214 444 449
Watch This Space creates affordable,
design-led jewellery and accessories.
Designing and producing since 1999,
their dedicated six-person in-house
design team work year round to
produce a huge selection of funky and
colourful jewellery. Pieces incorporate
resin, wood, freshwater pearls, semiprecious stones and natural materials.
This season the company is offering a mid-season launch of four
new collections - “Pewter and Resin Balls”, “Tinted Domes”, “Organic
Honeycomb” and “Pointed Feng Shui”, alongside recent additions of
hand crafted scarves in unique designs using natural materials.
Angelic Hen
Stand E73
www.angelic-hen.co.uk
From Angelic Hen’s Wye Valley workshop, a whimsical collection of
wooden items are produced and hand painted by a team of dedicated
artists. The colourful Pegged Out products are both a decorative and
clever use of the humble peg, whilst witty door hangers and clever key
racks display the same fun approach to organisation of the home. There
is also a family notice board and desk sign available for simple and clear
communication with a cheeky twist. The company has extended its
popular range of jolly useful key rings and children’s frames, all of which
can be seen at Pulse.
46 giftfocus
pulse
LucyQ
Stand S40
www.lucyqdesigns.co.uk
Lucy Quartermaine, one of the northwest’s
top contemporary jewellery designers, has
created a dynamic range of inspirational
designs that offer a fun and modern twist
to traditional craftsmanship. Each and every
LucyQ piece is unique in design. Lucy
introduces fun into jewellery while maintaining the simplicity of silver in
each piece. New this year is the Crisp Collection, in which she has used
common objects and turned them into head turning creations. The new
collection is extremely tactile, as the tassels can be woven through the
flower motif, adding a whole new creation to the jewellery.
Wild and Wolf Ltd
Stand L44
www.wildandwolf.com
Wild and Wolf continue
its reputation for providing
useful, pretty, and amusing
products with its newest
range, Wrybaby T-shirts. The
12 Mysterio t-shirt designs
from Wrybaby predict baby’s
future, a secret that can
only be discovered once
the sealed muslin gift bag
is opened. A fun and
original gift they are
available for boys and
girls and feature a variety of
vocations from game show host and
shoe designer to property tycoon, and catwalk
model. Other new ranges from Wild and Wolf include licensed
products from Penguin Books and Charles Buchan’s Football
Monthly, eco-friendly jewellery from Batucada, and new additions
to the Classic Phones collection and the V&A tools range.
Glover & Smith
Stand J74
www.gloverandsmith.com
Glover and Smith continue
to add new designs to their
popular tableware ranges with
the launch of the new ‘Devon
Bowl Collection’. Inspired by
treasures in the British Museum,
the Devon Bowl is an elegant
cup-shaped vessel, which comes
with a perfectly formed spoon. Designs include familiar images such as
the Owl and the Pussycat, the Hare and the Tortoise and Oakleaf and
Acorn, all of which have a recommended retail price of £35 each.
giftfocus 47
exhibitor profiles
Carrie Elspeth Ltd
Stand J50
www.carrieelspeth.com
Carrie Elspeth’s new and exclusive range of designer jewellery for summer 2008 is bursting
with colour and shine! Handmade in the UK, Carrie’s new collection is a sunny reminder of sweet
holiday ice-creams, classic beachside deckchairs and the glow of warm evenings out. Using fun stripes, metallic
shimmers and the sophisticated sparkle of crystals, there is something for everyone. The designs feature clusters of
hearts and show stopping glaciers, chunky resin rocks reminiscent of carved ice that are available in two cool shades,
to balance out the hot collection.
LeJu
Stand T58
www.lejudesigns.com
Creative and eco-friendly company LeJu’s spring/summer
2008 jewellery collection carries their trademark
explosion of colour and unique craftsmanship. Sustainable,
plant-based materials are the key to their playful designs
in a fresh palette of muted lilac, citrus lime, bright yellow,
and deep aqua, contrasted with the natural earth-toned
hues of their main component, vegetable ivory. This
season also sees LeJu introduce more sterling silver to
their designs, adding an element of fine jewellery to their
range – an indication of a stable of exciting things to
come in future collections.
Inch Blue
Rodeo Belts
Stand E66
www.inch-blue.com
Inch Blue, the UK brand of super soft leather
shoes, has been adorning the feet of lucky
babies and toddlers since 1999. Their constantly
evolving collection, which will be showcased at
Pulse, is complemented by gift sets, which include
100 per cent cotton babygrows and 100 per
cent lambswool receiving blankets. Inch Blue is
a popular choice for new parents and people
looking for imaginative and eye-catching gift ideas.
With over 100 fun and fresh designs to choose
from and around 25 new styles added each
season, there’s always a style that will appeal.
Stand V38
www.rodeobelts.co.uk
Rodeo belts are supplied in a
luxury presentation box with a
soft chamois pouch, designed
in the UK by Christine Hughes.
New designs centre on classic
wearable colours but include
a funky twist with wild pink
zebra and subtle, beige mocha
print hides. The theme, as
always, is high quality crystals
and fabulous hide leather.
Dillon Smith
Stand Z58
Tel: +44 (0)1382 730 799
After their major re-branding at the beginning of the year, Dillon Smith will be
launching many new in-house designs at Pulse, following a tremendous start to 2008
with Top Drawer and Scottish shows exceeding all expectations. Scottish-based Dillon
Smith’s unique designs in silver with semi-precious stones, wood, and crystals, echo
nature’s forms and textures in a contemporary and classic manner with a strong sense
of statement. Many of the newer designs are fast expanding into complete collections,
complemented by stand alone ranges of high quality rings, which is a strong trademark
of this emerging brand.
48 giftfocus
Uniquely Different Gifts
Dora Designs Ltd are delighted to be exhibiting at Pulse Stand F57 and
Harrogate Home and Gift Design Point 2 Stand 37. The new products for
Autumn 2008 will be available including some great additions to the Cat
and Dog and Traditional ranges. A new range of doorsteps for the younger
generation has also been introduced.
International Gift Wrapping and Merchandising Consultant
Arona Khan helps retailers to increase sales, enhance
customer service and improve window and
in-store displays
• Gift Wrapping, Bow Making, Gift Basket
and Visual Merchandising training courses
• Training DVDs for retailers and consumers
• Consultancy Services
We look forward to welcoming you to our stand. Please visit our
website www.doradesigns.co.uk
email [email protected]
Phone: 01778 561111
T: 020 7644 0477
E: [email protected] W: www.aronakhan.com
Visit Arona at Pulse on the Vivid Wrap Stand A59 11-3pm daily
exhibitor profiles
The Puppet Company Limited
Stand F69
www.thepuppetcompany.com
The Puppet Company designs and manufactures over 500 different puppets
including finger puppets, glove puppets, body puppets and rod-arm controlled
puppets. The products are great traditional toys with a modern twist using excellent
materials and expertly made. At this year’s show the company is launching the brand
new ‘Sockettes’ large, bright, stripy sock glove puppets with opening mouths and bags
of character. The Puppet Company’s collection is considered to be one of the largest
in Europe, and the wide selection of puppets has proven to be very popular across
the continent.
Onya Bags
Stand F52
www.onyabags.co.uk
Showing for the first time at Pulse
Onya Bags will be presenting a range
of innovative plastic bag alternatives.
Made from lightweight parachute silk,
the five-strong collection of brightly
coloured bags reflects the philosophy
behind the Onya concept – bags for
life are good but only if they are ‘onya’ at all times.
The bags fold into a compact pouch, not much larger than a mobile
phone, and come with a carabineer clip, which can be attached to
keys, belt loops or handbags. The range includes a standard carrier bag,
backpack, courier-style bag which can be worn on the side or hooked
over a pram, lightweight, transparent bags for fruit and vegetable
purchases and the aptly named Dump it Onya, a pouch containing
biodegradable bags for dog owners.
Repeat Repeat
Stand F26
www.repeatrepeat.co.uk
Repeat Repeat is determined to carry on the history and traditions
of the pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent. Company founders Gillian
Naylor and Mark Faulkner are committed to ensuring all of their
products are designed and manufactured in the famous Staffordshire city.
The new Plum range of white relief contemporary bone china mugs
features a round shape and is the latest addition to the collection.
The quality mugs are generous in size and comforting to hold, perfect
for those who need a large hot drink to energise them throughout the
day! Repeat Repeat will also be launching more new designs in their
constantly evolving range.
50 giftfocus
Shokay
Stand F46
www.shokay.com
Shokay will be introducing for the first time to the UK market its new
yak down children’s, home and accessories collections at Pulse.
Shokay, the Tibetan word for yak, is a social enterprise born out of
a desire to impact positive development in the Tibetan plateau of
western China. They source raw yak down from Tibetan herders and
bring it to market as a luxury textile.
The fibre is woven into scarves, hats, baby clothes, cushions
and throws and Shokay’s knitting yarn is in demand from high-end
designers. Yak down is luxuriously soft, yet durable and machine
washable! This previously untapped resource has not been properly
developed in the past because of its remote and isolated location in
the Himalayas. Shokay is hoping to change that.
soothe your mind
with badger balms
grafton international
advertising feature
Whether you need to de-stress, relax or soothe your headache there is a Badger Mind
Balm for you. 100 percent natural they each contain a special blend of ingredients that are
at least 80 per cent certified organic. Packaged in beautifully illustrated one ounce tins, these
Aromatherapy balms use the fragrance of pure essential oils to bypass the conscious mind and
soothe the emotions on a deeper level. Choose from Headache Soother, Stress Soother or
Yoga & Meditation Balm.
Headache Soother
Massage this cooling balm onto temples,
neck, and forehead. Expect a calming, cooling
sensation, silky smooth skin, and a sense of
well-being!
Ingredients: Organic Extra Virgin Olive
Oil, Golden Yellow Beeswax, Essential
Oils of Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus,
Mandarin and Sandalwood, and CO2
Extracts of Rosehip & Calendula.
Stress Soother
Stress Soother contains a combination of
ingredients to promote calm, courage &
relaxed awareness when times get tough.
Rub it in, think good thoughts and breathe.
Ingredients: Organic Extra Virgin Olive
Oil, Golden Yellow Beeswax, Essential
Oils of Tangerine, Lavender, Rosemary,
Cedarwood, Spearmint, Rose Otto &
Roman Chamomile, and CO2 Extracts of
Rosehil & Calendula.
Yoga & Meditation Balm
Yoga & Meditation Balm is an ancient blend
of ingredients to calm, center & balance your
inner badger. Rub a little onto those spots
that need soothing. Close your eyes and let
it be.
Ingredients: Organic Extra Virgin Olive
Oil, Golden Yellow Beeswax, Essential Oils
of Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Mandarin
& Litsea Cubeba, and CO2 Extracts of
Rosehip,Vetivert, Frankincense, Myrrh,
Ginger & Calendula.
Badger Balms are the creation of Bill Whyte,
an ex-carpenter from New Hampshire, USA,
whose passion for herbs and all things organic
led him to develop a ‘healing balm’ for his
work-torn hands. When word got around
the lumber yards of Bill’s natural remedy work
mates, friends and neighbours came knocking
for this wonderful antidote. Soon later so did
businesses small and large, throughout the
USA and eventually the rest of the world!
Bill started by mixing his miracle Healing
Balm in his back room at home, and selling
it by going from store to store in his
carpenter’s van. Now Badger Healing Balm
is sold internationally, along with organic
soaps, luxurious body butters, totally natural
SPFs, beautifully illustrated gift sets and an
expanded line of powerfully pure balms,
potions and natural remedies. Even with all
their growth and success, the Badger team
still carefully prepare almost all of their balms
and healing oils in their workshop in the little
village of Gilsum, up in the mountains of New
Hampshire.
The key to Badger success is quality! Simply
read the labels: no chemicals, GMOs, fillers,
parabins or other dubious stuff that you
definitely don’t want on your skin! Badger
Balms contain over 75% Organic Extra Virgin
Olive Oil, Organic CO2 extracts, Wild African
Shea Butter and fine therapeutic quality
essential oils. All ingredients are organic,
wild-crafted or ecologically processed. They
smell great, are easily absorbed, and come in
incredibly cute packaging! Soothe, refresh and
lift the spirits with Badger products.
Badger products are 100% natural and
are made from organic ingredients and
therapeutic, pure essential oils sourced from
around the globe for their healing powers. All
of their balms and oils are composed of at
least 75% organic ingredients and are naturally
processed. Prices start from RRP £1.99. g
Further Information
Phone 01827 253 323
or email [email protected]
Website: www.graftons.co.uk
giftfocus 51
All the latest from the world of licensing
hot property
Dead popular!
Ravensburger launch first Smiley
jigsaw puzzles
Ravensburger has signed a deal with Smileyworld for the
first ever 2D and 3D puzzles featuring the world-famous
black and yellow icon.
Ravensburger’s Smileyworld Puzzleball ™ is made up of
60 curved, sturdy plastic pieces that fit together to form a
perfectly round ball.
Ravensburger has also produced a more traditional
puzzle in the form of a 1,000-piece jigsaw.
The Ravensburger puzzles add to a growing collection
of products launched under the Smileyworld brand, which
include clothing, stationery, gifts and greeting cards, all
featuring Smileyworld icons. There are 1,200 Smileyworld
icons, representing 250 different moods.
Franklin Loufrani launched the Smiley brand in 1971 as
an icon to highlight good news in a French newspaper.
Visit the website www.ravensburger.com for details.
New characters in Tinami
Fresh recruits for 2008 join the new Jeli Deli™ Tinami
Series Two range from Santoro.
Six new Jeli Deli critters join the original range of miniplush characters that come packaged in their very own tin
home. Each come with a hidden magnet.
The Jeli Deli™ Tinami from Santoro Graphics was highly
commended in the Gift of the Year Awards 2007 and
proved so successful it sold out within months of its launch.
To find out more call +44 (0)1709 518 100 or email
[email protected].
52 giftfocus
The Skelanimals phenomenon keeps on growing
with new licences and online retail success.
Skelanimals are a range of skeletal characters
created by artist and designer Mitchell Bernal.
UK licensing agent Rocket Licensing has
announced three new deals for the hit property.
For the UK market Bravado, has won a licence
to produce Skelanimal fashion apparel and
accessories, including purses, bags and jewellery. The
initial fashion line is in the market now, while the
accessories will hit the shops by early summer.
Pyramid Posters, is planning a range of Skelanimals posters and a badge pack. The
badge pack comprises four 38mm badges showing individual animals The first poster,
a collage poster of Skelanimals-related words and images, will be introduced to the
market, alongside the badge pack, through music chains before entering mainstream
retail. Further posters will appear in the coming months.
Underground Toys, a European manufacturer and distributor of licensed speciality
toys and gifts, is distributing a range of four-inch to eight-inch soft toys, keychains and
vinyl figures. Currently in the first stage of launch, the products are being stocked
in HMV, Forbidden Planet and a number of speciality outlets. The second stage of
launch will involve distribution through mainstream fashion and other stores. A range
of plush backpacks is also planned and will be distributed soon.
To find out more contact Rocket Licensing on +44 (0)207 652 7613.
Seeking picture perfect pets
Popular animal artist Ann Edwards
has teamed up with organic pet food
producer OrganiPets to launch the
search for one dog and one cat to join
The Family Pets, her well-known range of
humorous animal characters.
The Best Pets competition, which was
launched at the world-famous Crufts
Dog Show in March, aims to find two
winners ready to share new adventures
with four-legged friends, Digger, Fat Cat,
Rags, Rosie, Scotty and Amy.
Their owners will each receive the
original artwork, worth £1,000, and the
chance to see characters based on their much-loved pets take leading roles in The
Family Pets collection of art and giftware.
The existing Family Pets are all inspired by the real-life adventures of Ann’s two
dogs, cat and parrot. The characters are currently featured on a wide range of greeting cards and giftware, including coasters, aprons and T-shirts and there are plans to
expand the range still further.
Closing date for the competition is July 31st, 2008. Second and third prize runnersup will receive limited edition prints of Ann’s work worth £300 and £150. To find out
more visit www.annedwardsart.co.uk.
licensing
New fans for
old classics
Bill and Ben and Andy
Pandy, two television
favourites from the
early 1950s, are
being re-launched on
merchandise to target
both current fans of
the show and the
nostalgia market.
Enjoying renewed
success as part of BBC Television’s CBeebies line-up, the programmes
originally aired as part of the BBC’s Watch With Mother schedule in the
days of black-and-white television.
Bulldog Licensing has announced global programmes of licensed
products catering to fans of the new and classic programmes.
For the collector’s market Robert Harrop will be producing high quality
resin figurines based on the original look of each show. Slotz will continue
to cater for collectors with garden ornaments based on the cheeky
flowerpot-dwellers Bill and Ben.
For fans of the current shows, Lazzati will be creating apparel featuring
both Andy Pandy and Bill and Ben and 2Entertain will be releasing the
current Bill and Ben series on DVD.
Later this year there will be further licensing activity in publishing, home
wares, canvas wall art and other collectables.
For further information visit the website www.bulldog-licensing.com.
Football legends join the party
Imagine Paper has moved into
party ware with a groundbreaking new range of great
paper products.
The company has launched
Team Shirt Napkins in the style of
Manchester United replica shirts,
each bearing the iconic number
seven and the equally famous
number 10.
The officially licensed Team
Shirt Napkins are ideal for
birthday parties for all ages and
open to 33cm x 33cm, revealing a
full colour image of Old Trafford, the ‘Theatre of Dreams’.
Paper handkerchiefs are also available, which measure a handy 20cm x
20cm when opened.
The new line is already on sale at the Manchester United megastore
at Old Trafford and Imagine Paper is now actively looking to move into
the wider retail market. The Team Shirt Napkins and Handkerchiefs will
be available in six packs.
Visit www.imaginepaper.co.uk for further details.
Brainiac and Beano gifts
Start Licensing has secured a deal for Paladone Products to produce
ranges of Brainiac and Beano novelty gifts and gadgets.
Innovative novelty gift supplier Paladone Products Limited has been
appointed the first licensee to produce a range of Brainiac and Beano
gifts and gadgets.
Brainiac is the multi award winning Sky One show hosted by Vic
Reeves and Jon Tickle, which revels in scientific mayhem tackling the
mysteries of science. The Beano children’s comic published by DC
Thomson features iconic character Dennis the Menace and friends.
Start Licensing, representative for DC Thomson and Sky, secured
the deal with Paladone and will continue to manage the relationship
between the new licensee and two licensors.
The retail prices for the Brainiac products will
range between £4.99-£19.99 and £3.99-£30 for
the Beano range.
For further details contact Start Licensing on
+44 (0)208 337 7958 or email start.licensing@
btopenworld.com.
Bats about Bats
Nomination, the Italian jewellery brand, is
celebrating its Batman collection in the lead
up to the release of the cape crusader’s
latest epic adventure, The Dark Knight.
The latest superhero epic by Warner
Brothers Pictures will be premiering in
London on 25th July this year.
The Batman collection comprises
necklaces, earrings, bracelets, belt chains
and key rings, made of stainless steel and
incorporating the distinctive Batman logo.
The range is produced under licence
through Warner Brothers. For further
information visit www.nomination.com.
giftfocus 53
merchandising
top of the shops
There are two things a retailer would give their last penny to achieve increased sales and customer loyalty. But many retailers are struggling
to discover techniques to achieve this in an increasingly competitive
marketplace. In the first of a series of articles Clive Harper, managing
director of Yankee Candle® Europe provides expert advice on the
most proven route to ensuring your business becomes `Top of the
Shops´, turning you into a master merchandiser.
Merchandising is one of the most powerful
tools you can use as a retailer. When done
correctly, sales can increase dramatically and
customers will be keen to return. Research
shows that a staggering 60 per cent of buying
decisions are made in store, which means the
first stage of effective merchandising is actually
drawing customers in to begin with.
Merchandising begins firstly with your
window display.
Your shop front is one of the most proven
forms of advertising (and the least expensive!)
so ensuring your window displays are as
striking and informative as possible will increase
sales dramatically.
First and foremost, a retail window display
must be eye-catching. If you think about how
many seconds it takes to walk past a shop
window, you’ll realise how little time you have
to capture your potential customers’ attention.
The focal point of a shop window should be
at eye level. Customers will not work to get a
good look at your display and will simply walk
on by without noticing. Ensuring you have an
easy-to-view display will draw in customers
“Your shop front is one of
the most proven forms of
adver tising (and the least
expensive!) so ensuring
your window displays are as
striking and informative as
possible will increase sales
dramatically.”
who didn’t necessarily plan to visit your store,
and hopefully lead them to purchase.
Using your window display to promote
brand new products will keep the interest of
existing customers – if they already love your
shop and the products you sell they will be
interested in the new products you’re now
offering. Promoting slow-moving items or
announcing a sale will help to encourage new
customers – after all who doesn’t like a sale?
If creativity isn’t your strong point, decide
“Colour will be your most
powerful tool in creating an
effective window display and
work well to grab attention.”
on a theme to base your display on. Seasons
provide wonderful themes which are easy
to build upon, and by using additional props
with your products you will instantly add to
the effect. For example, daffodils in spring
make a colourful addition, as will Christmas
decorations as we approach the festive season.
Colour will be your most powerful tool in
creating an effective window display and work
well to grab attention. If the products you are
promoting are neutral, spice them up with
striking accessories and graphics. Drapes of
sumptuous and complementing material can
also be used to add instant colour and pattern,
and are also perfect props for covering up
faded and damaged display units.
However, it doesn’t matter how wonderful
and creative your display is if passers-by can’t
actually see it. Ensuring you have the correct
lighting is one of the most important factors
in creating a successful display and will also
allow you to continue to market to potential
customers throughout the night. Don’t aim
spotlights directly at the products or the
window, as the former will create glare, making
it more difficult to see the item you’re trying
to promote and the latter will simply dazzle
the public.
Finally, don’t forget to change your window
displays every four to six weeks to keep
passing customers interested. This will also help
avoid products and graphics fading and your
window display becoming tired and worn.
Remember, you only have three seconds to
make a first impression, so make it last. g
“Ensuring you have the
correct lighting is one of
the most impor tant factors
in creating a successful
display and will also allow
you to continue to market
to potential customers
throughout the night.”
Further information
For further information on Yankee Candle®
and its merchandising manual telephone
+ 44 (0) 1454 454 500 or visit the
website www.yankeecandle.co.uk.
giftfocus 55
Parlane
Garden Trading
Wildlife Garden
the great outdoors
People are increasingly extending their living space outdoors to include the garden, patio
and beyond. We take a look at some of the latest stylish products for alfresco living…
More and more of us are enjoying the outdoor
lifestyle, dining alfresco and extending our living
space from the indoors out.
Potting shed chic has become a trend
statement and demand is high for versatile,
functional yet stylish products.
with scoop is ideal for any outdoor party or
gathering. The lid allows the ice to last longer
and stops bugs and other nasties flying in.
Email [email protected] or visit
the website www.gardentrading.co.uk to find
out more.
Garden Trading has tapped into the market
with a constantly updated offering designed to
keep pace with changing lifestyle trends and
consumer demand.
Founded in 1994 by Jon Holloway in a
disused brewery in the picturesque Cotswold
town of Burford, the company prides itself
as originators of fine home, garden and
outdoor living accessories and furniture for the
traditional and contemporary home.
All Garden Trading products are inspired
by traditional designs, quintessentially English
but with a contemporary twist to make them
suitable for modern living. The summer 2008
collection includes new parasols, deck chairs,
bunting, hanging lanterns, ground lanterns and
new wicker picnic hampers with handy built in
bottle holding and cooler bag compartments
for making the most of lazy days.
For keeping cool their stylish ice bucket
Established over 30 years ago as a specialist
glassware company, Parlane has become an
international company in the world of home
accessories. Quality of design is a key factor
in the constant development of The Parlane
Collection with onus on natural materials and
hand made techniques. The company offers
over 800 new products every season, which
are included in their new catalogues, published
in January and June every year.
The spring/summer 2008 collection features
a host of new products. This season Parlane
has everything covered for the conservatory
or garden, from metal folding furniture to the
traditional garden trug.
For something different their magnetic laser
cut metal butterflies make an inexpensive gift
for the garden lover. Visit the comprehensive
website www.parlaneinternational.co.uk to
find out more.
56 giftfocus
Swedish company Wildlife Garden supplies
innovative products designed to encourage a
living garden.
It has recently introduced two new designs
to its popular Multiholk® collection of all year
round birdfeeder and nesting boxes. Crafted
by hand the replica cottages and houses can
be used in the spring as a nesting box and as a
bird table and feeder during the winter.
The two new additions to the collection are
the Country Cottage and the Tudor House,
inspired by the English countryside. Made from
durable and weather resistant larch wood and
painted with environmentally friendly paint
they have been developed in co-operation
with ornithological experts.
Latest arrivals also include five new
and larger hand-carved wooden garden
birds to the original DecoBirds collector’s
series introduced last summer. Painted with
environmentally friendly, water and UV-resistant
colours they are suitable for both indoor or
outdoor use.
For more about the complete range log on
to www.wildlifegarden.co.uk.
great outdoors
Talking Tables
Ascot Living
ATP Gifts
Haba is probably best known for its baby
toys and board games, but also has successful
outdoor products.
The Terra-kids range has been developed
for children who want to explore the great
outdoors. All products are made from hardwearing materials, to withstand the rigours
of the toughest camping trip. Most products
can be secured to belts or bags. Smaller items
include key rings with a magnifying glass,
thermometer, compass, whistle and emergency
capsule (for personal information).
The Neck Key Ring also has a mobile phone
holder. Larger items include a wind up camping
light, wrist compass and pocket magnifying
glass. Telephone +44 (0)1613 04 9 555 to find
out more.
To help make a summer party go with a swing
Talking Tables has a Fab Fiesta range in bright
colours for fun indoors or out.
Fab decorations include multi-coloured
tissue garlands in flower or butterfly shapes,
colourful, decorative lanterns, printed paper
windmills, which look great in plant pots and
outdoor garden candles to help keep the party
going well after the sun goes down.
Haba
To find out more visit the informative website
www.talkingtables.co.uk
ATP Gifts offer an array of innovative ideas
especially for those who enjoy the garden.
Their ornamental watering cans are handmade
in India, so each one is unique with a charm
of all of its own. New additions to the range
include robin and ladybird versions. New
ideas have also been introduced to the
popular filigree collection of wirework garden
decorations including a family of ornamental
snails. For further details visit the website
www.atpgifts.com.
Unique and durable collectables from The
Potting Shed include their Gifts to Go range
in distinctive eco-friendly boxes. The packaging
has been designed to enhance the natural
aspect of the products and make them simple
to merchandise, easy to handle, take home
and wrap.
The range includes ornamental outdoor
Tinkling Toadstools, all-weather baby garden
creatures including ladybird, tortoise, snail,
gecko and tree frogs, reptile rocks, decorative
chimes and dragonfly hanging lanterns. Also
Potting Shed
new are their dancing dragonflies.
Visit the website www.tinklingtoadstools for
further details.
Picnic at Ascot changed its name to Ascot
Living this year, to mark its 10th year in
business and its expansion into a wider
selection of gifts and lifestyle products.
With the same commitment to high quality
innovative and stylish products, the company is
now truly a supplier for all seasons.
The range is constantly improved and
updated with new designs and products for all
occasions from picnics, to barbecues, a day at
the races or on the beach.
For cocktails to go the pink cocktail set
contains two cocktail glasses, cocktail sticks a
stainless steel cocktail shaker and two coasters.
Their picnic cooler on wheels comes fully
equipped for four people. The wheels are
detachable and it has a telescopic handle
and two separate cooler departments. Both
products are unique designs, assembled in the
UK to maintain high quality control standards.
Call +44 (0)1869 322 111 to find out more
or visit the website www.picnicatascot.co.uk. g
giftfocus 57
Unique designs, assembled in the UK
SOMETHING DIFFERENT!
<5<:<(3*633,*;()3,
.0-;:-69.(9+,536=,9:
73,(:,=0:0;6<9>,):0;,
www.tinklingtoadstools.co.uk
69905.01886 888 880
MVYV\YIYVJO\YL
Tel 01869 322111
E-mail: [email protected]
www.ascotliving.co.uk
formland
summer
fair
Quail
Greengate
cosmopolitan collections
Following its debut last year Summer Fair returns to
London this June with a cosmopolitan line-up of major
UK and international suppliers.
In brief
show
venue
when
organisers
opening hours
website
Summer Fair London
ExCel exhibition centre,
London
22nd-25th June 2008
Emap TPS
Sun 22nd 9.30am-6pm
Mon 23rd 9.30am-7pm
Tues 24th 9.30am-6pm
Wed 25th 9.30am-4pm
www.summerfair.com
Summer Fair 2008 is looking to build on its
launch last year to establish itself as a major
international draw.
Organisers Emap TPS say the event
continues to grow and develop, attracting
many of the best design-led, commercial
home and gift brands in Europe, helping to put
London firmly on the map as a leading midyear buying destination.
The 2008 edition promises to be larger
than 2007, with new exhibitors, a more
comprehensive choice of products, hot trends,
exciting new products and major brands.
“Summer Fair presents an unrivalled offer of
established, commercial suppliers, and new and
quirky inspirational products, meaning retailers
can buy in depth”, explains Kate Ballard the
event manager.
The event is edited into seven sectors:
• Fashion & Furniture
• Contemporary Gift
• Outdoor Living
• Fragrance, Body & Bath
• Cards & Kids' Gift
• Fashion Accessories
• Ceramics & Tabletop
Aimed at the medium to high end of the
market the show is staged in an interiordesigned setting to present a modern,
contemporary face to the traditional business
to business exhibition format.
Leading UK home and gift suppliers
including One World Trading, Parlane and
Stone The Crows! will present alongside major
international suppliers, many of whom have
never shown in the UK before.
Coach House and Lisbeth Dahl are amongst
major new exhibitors joining this year. Coach
House, with their inspirational room sets,
will be showing for the first time in London.
This marks a growth in the furniture and
home fashion section of the show with other
exhibitors to include India Jane, Febland and
The Libra Company.
The dedicated Body and Bath section will
present new French ranges as well as returning
UK favourites like Bomb Cosmetics and Parks
of London.
Championing the best contemporary
UK design talent, the event will host the
Metropolitan Works Show 2008 and major
British design resosurce Design-Nation.
Showing for the first time at Summer Fair,
Design-Nation will showcase the work of
some of its most impressive designer-makers
from the UK.
Rachel Moses of Design-Nation says:
“Summer Fair offers a unique platform for our
designers, many of whom are internationally
acknowledged yet some of whom have not
shown in London for several years.”
The Metropolitan Works Show, now in
its fourth year, attracts the best new British
design talent across lighting, furniture, ceramics,
textiles and jewellery. The show, established
by creative industries centre Metropolitan
Works, attracts the hottest new products, from
the cream of both established and emerging
new designers.
The UK’s leading style magazine, Elle
Decoration also returns, following the success
of the feature in 2007. Curated by the editorial
team at Elle Decoration, the trends area aims
to set the agenda across home and gift for the
year ahead.
Summer Fair will also be introducing a
Creative Britain product trail this year following
on from the success of the initiative at its sister
shows, Spring Fair and Autumn Fair held at the
NEC, Birmingham.
The trend for home-grown products has
been gathering momentum over the past year
and the Creative Britain branding allows buyers
to quickly identify those companies offering UK
designed ranges.
The Ethical Brands product trail will also
be highlighted at the show, helping buyers to
source eco-ranges and UK-designed product.
Following extensive industry dialogue, 2008
also sees the Giftware Association’s prestigious
Gift of the Year Awards move home to be
hosted alongside Summer Fair.
This year, the awards will be announced on
Monday 23rd June. Chosen from the cream
of the UK giftware industry, award winners
and short listed finalists will be revealed within
an exciting new feature stand at the show.
With categories including Premium/Luxury,
Made in the UK and Eco-friendly, the stand will
represent a house and garden and will feature
the products in situ.
There will also be a packed seminar
programme featuring essential trend
information and advice about online retailing
and ethical trading. Keynote speakers include
Mary Portas, retail guru and star of the BBC
television series Mary Queen of Shops. g
giftfocus 59
Eastgate Resource
Betty & Bird Ltd
Exhibitor profiles
Townhouse Cards Ltd
Stand K75
www.townhousecards.co.uk
At this year's Summer Fair, Townhouse Cards
are launching an additional 12 designs to their
successful “Precious Whispers” photographic
range, bringing it to a total of 24 classic
cards and counting. The company will also
be producing a range of children's cards for
the first time, appropriately named “Little
Numbers” for boys and girls aged between
one and eight years old.
Eastgate Resource
Stand J84
www.eastgateresource.co.uk
Eastgate Resource will be launching The
Greenwood range of 14 new pendants.
Specialists in jewellery with meaning inspired
by primeval heritage, Eastgate design,
manufacture and distribute worldwide. The
jewellery is provided with distinctive point
of sale picture frame displays, which are
storyboards to inspire customers to buy.
The Greenwood range is designed to bridge
today's hectic lifestyle with the down to earth
way of life of ancient, forest forebears, their
beliefs and allies in nature. Packaged in a green
satin pouch, each pendant comes with a full
leaflet explaining the heritage of each piece.
Also on display will be Angel & Faery pendants,
Celtic designs such as birth charms and a
collection of pewter pendants by Courtney
Davis, Runic pendants, Egyptian and Viking loric
pendants.
Betty & Bird Ltd
Stand J107
www.bettyandbird.com
Following a sparkling success with their
jewelled and fashion bra strap range, Betty
& Bird introduce their new eye-catching
collection of spectacle chains as a smart gift
and fashion accessory for the style conscious
woman. Made by hand using a selection of
fresh water pearls, diamanté and beads in a
sumptuous choice of seasonal colours, bland
glasses can be revamped and funky pairs can
be co-ordinated with any outfit with a chain
to suit.
60 giftfocus
Moore and Moore Textiles
Moore and Moore Textiles
Stand C30
www.mooreandmooretextiles.com
Moore and Moore Textiles are well known for
their soft and luxurious faux fur goods and
will be exhibiting new products alongside their
usual best sellers. As well as the faux fur, they
produce a collection of items in a butter-soft
faux sheepskin, including practical Pocket
Pal buggy blankets, which have proved to be
popular gift items all year-round.
The Moore and Moore ranges include
throws, cushions, hot water bottles for adults
and children, lavender wheat warmers, buggy
blankets, tea and egg cosies, scarves, capes
and wraps.
Cavania Cards
Stand H72
www.cavania.com
Cavania Cards have been busy throughout
the season, adding over 36 new cards to their
already expansive spring '08 launches. New
cards include occasion additions to the popular
Silhouettes range, a new range for ladies called
Deco Ages, and a classic occasions range
named Chloe’s Bureau. These fresh items will
be appearing alongside consistent top sellers
in the Papillion Glitter and Vintage card ranges.
Cavania has also expanded their range of
jewellery, introducing a new line of ladies office
accessories, and have continued to add new
designs to the Wooden Keepsake box.
Townhouse Cards Ltd
Cavania Cards
Q&A special
all the answers
Our experts tackle your insurance, technological
and visual merchandising queries
Jim Pittman ACII is a Chartered Insurance
Broker of T H March & Co Limited. T H March
is a well-established family business founded
in 1887, with offices in London, Birmingham,
Manchester, Glasgow, Sevenoaks and Yelverton,
near Plymouth. The company has departments
covering household, motor, travel, commercial
and scheme insurance.
David Mackley has 20 years' experience in
information technology and is now managing
director of Intelligent Retail, the company
behind Giftware Connect. Areas of expertise
are EPoS, retail IT systems and eCommerce.
David can be contacted on 0845 680 0126
or at [email protected]
If you have a question about any aspect
of the gift retail industry, simply write to:
Alternatively, send your queries to
[email protected].
Jim Pittman says: Even the smallest businesses need to
ensure that their staff are protected against accidents and
injury. Should you have five or more staff, a Health and
Safety Policy is required by law. Clean, tidy, uncongested,
well-maintained and adequately lit premises are necessary
to avoid slips, trips and falls. Avoid trailing electrical leads
across aisles etc. A clearly marked First Aid Kit should
always be available in the workplace. Not only is it
important to protect your staff, but good business sense
to ensure members of the public are protected as well.
The prevalence of personal injury compensation solicitors
making claims against businesses is more widespread
than ever before, which, unfortunately, can drive up your
insurance costs should you be sued for injury to your staff
or the general public. Your local council should be able to
provide useful assistance and advice on all aspects of Health
and Safety.
To further protect your business from disruption, it is
advisable to have a Business Continuity Plan. The plan
at the very least should ensure that all business-critical
information (paper-based and electronic) and important
contact details (i.e. suppliers, customers, employees and
your insurers) should be kept off site in a secure location.
Q
Alan Springall’s work has always involved display
and exhibitions, from 13 years in Selfridges’
display department to lecturing at colleges and
running a consultancy with his partner. Areas
of expertise include design, construction, prop
making, merchandise handling, and exhibitions.
Q&A special, Gift Focus Magazine,
Broseley House, Newlands Drive,
Witham, Essex, CM8 2UL
Q
A
We’re only a small business so we don’t need to worry
about Health & Safety, that’s only for large businesses isn’t
it?
Judging by past experience I am dreading the approach of
the sale season. My manager and I get very close to falling
out over how much we should put in the window. I argue
that a sale display should look creative, she on the other
hand maintains that a window doesn’t qualify unless it
resembles a jumble sale. Who would you support?
Q
A
Alan Springall says: The most ineffective type of sale
window, in my opinion, is one that features a tired old red
and white banner prised from storage at the back of the
stockroom for its twice yearly job of hovering over a pile of
poorly stacked dog-eared items.
Sale windows should be seen as an opportunity to do
something entirely different that will attract the eye of
the regular passer-by. The presentation should continue
to reflect the image of your store and not look like an
extension of the local army surplus shop.
giftfocus 63
Q&A
There is no rule to say that you need to show
stock at all, sometimes it’s better not to, as you
will be constantly changing it if the promotion
is successful. The message can be conveyed by
graphics, humour or even with mundane items,
coupled with a little ingenuity.
Your thought process might start perhaps
with use of your company carrier bags, in
quantity, with sale lettering or logo stencilled
onto them. Possibly a mannequin dressed in
brown paper with an “everything must go”
slogan or similar. You might decide on a play
on words like “Under Sale” for a nautical
theme, or “Sale-ebration” for a party window.
Merchandise can be used of course, but it
should still be handled well. The strongest
argument against your manager’s point of view
is that the items should look desirable and
good value. If you show little respect for the
stock then you can expect little reaction from
the public.
Promote the sale to your customers not as
a failure to sell old product but as a necessary
aspect of the trading year in order to make
space for fresh new lines.
Q
A
Q
A
I am looking at buying an EPoS System for
my shop and wondered whether I should
buy a retail touch screen PC or standard
office PC?
David Mackley says: Firstly, don’t make the
mistake of choosing your hardware first and
then your EPoS software. The software is by
far the most important element and can make
a big difference in the success of your business.
Once you have selected your software, the
choice of computer hardware really boils
down to two options. Firstly a standard office
PC is a cheaper approach. It will be faster and
more powerful than a Retail Touch Screen PC.
It won’t have a touch screen so your staff will
need to use a keyboard and mouse. Nothing
is as simple and fast as a touch screen so
if you have busy periods a touch screen is
usually a good investment.
The Retail PC will tend to be a few
hundred pounds more expensive, which buys
you the following additional features:
a) More durable, for example they are
less sensitive to overheating than office
PCs, this means that if wrapping or any
of those other items stored behind the
64 giftfocus
counter accumulate it will be less prone
to overheating.
b) Lockable cases so staff cannot play with
the CD player and power switch.
c) Probably the most important feature
is that a Retail PC will have the right
connections on the back for all the till
peripherals such as Receipt Printer, Label
Printer and Customer Display. These
often use serial ports, which are more
reliable than USB ports.
Whilst a standard PC will do the job providing
you get the connections right, if you can afford
the extra money a Retail PC can offer good
value for money over its lifetime (usually three
to four years).
Q
A
I need someone to help with the windows in
my shop and I am not sure how to advertise
the position. I think I need someone who is
trained in display but my partner says that
I should be seeking a visual merchandiser.
What is the difference?
Alan Springall says: You may well ask! I often
ask colleagues for their definition of each job
and get a different answer almost every time.
The main body of opinion favours the
following job description.
A display person will largely confine their
duties to windows and specific display areas
within the shop, designing settings that will
attract the eye of shoppers as well as making
the merchandise or information look as
desirable or memorable as possible. This will
be executed in a way, which suits the overall
image or “house style” of the business.
The visual merchandiser will be involved
with the displays as detailed above but will
also be responsible for how the merchandise
is arranged on selling fixtures, gondolas,
slatwall etc. ensuring that it looks attractive
and easy to “shop”.
They may also participate in consultation
with the management regarding the layout
of the shop floor with reference to the
psychology of how and why people make
their purchasing decisions.
On the other hand you might be tempted
to think that every decade or so people in the
industry like to re-invent their title. Could it
be that visual merchandiser sounds so much
more important than display designer or, dare
I say it, window dresser?
Q
A
I have Public Liability Cover with my present
policy; that covers my employees as well,
right?
Jim Pittman says: If you are an employer,
you do need Employers’ Liability Insurance,
as required under the Employers’ Liability
(Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 and
subsequent amendments. Should a member
of your staff be injured or become ill as
a result of carrying out their duties (for
example, Repetitive Strain Injury) they may be
entitled to claim for compensation from you
as their employer. The injury/illness may take
many years to materialise and it is therefore
imperative that all expiring Employers’ Liability
Certificates are kept as proof of cover for
no less than 40 years as required by the
above legislation (and you will also know who
to claim against!). Even if your staff are not
employed on a contractual basis or are parttime, this cover is still required.
Should a member of the public (including
an agent of another company) be injured
on your premises (for example a trip or fall)
they may be entitled to claim against you for
compensation for injuries/illness sustained
whilst on your premises. Taking into account
the litigious nature of modern society, it is
important that all businesses also have in place
Public and Products Liability cover, but this is
not a legal requirement.
Should a claim be successful against you,
without adequate insurance cover, the assets
of the business would be at risk. g
A
Q
A
The Personalised Memento Company
Wedgwood
Evt
ho
kia
happy ever after
While the number of Britons tying the knot continues to tumble the cost of the big day is still
rising. Those choosing to take the plunge are splashing out more than ever and gift buying for
the happy occasion remains big business.
Although the wedding bells may not be
peeling as frequently these days, when it
comes to gift buying for the happy event, the
tills keep on ringing.
The number of weddings in the UK has hit
an all time low while the average cost of the
big day has soared to a breathtaking £20,000.
The big spend continues to fuel growth in the
gift sector with plenty of fresh product tailored
to the wedding market being introduced.
Civil partnerships have also opened up
whole new gift giving opportunities.
Royal Doulton has launched a bridalinspired range of designer gift and dinnerware
this year aimed at increasing its share of the
wedding gift market.
The 200-year-old British company is
celebrating a new partnership with awardwinning couture wedding dress designer
Monique Lhuiller, who has created garments
for celebrity brides such as Sarah Jessica
Parker and Alicia Silverstone.
With thousands of weddings still held
each year, and around 90 per cent of brides
registering annually for gifts, the Monique
Lhuiller by Royal Doulton collection aims to
appeal to youthful, fashion-forward women
and brides. The collection spans dinnerware,
stemware and giftware, made from quality
materials like fine bone china and crystal.
Products are packaged in a hat box style gift
box and prices range from £20 to £40 for the
stemware and £30 to £250 for the giftware.
More information can be found at the
website www.royaldoulton.com.
Wedgwood has also introduced a new
line ideal for bridal gifting. The “With Love”
collection, inspired by Vera Wang’s iconic
jewellery, ‘Seven Days A Week I Love You’,
is a fine bone china collection decorated
with seven distinct, vintage inspired bands
that unite to tell the story of everyday love
and devotion.
Gold and platinum are linked in intricate
patterns that replicate the detail of each ring,
and when stacked together, reinforce the
romance of the story.
Visit www.wedgwood.com for further
details and information.
Evthokia is an exciting new brand responding
to the growing trend for fine dining with
fashion-inspired tableware and dinner party
accessories that make special gifts. This
wedding season the Shelley collection provides
a feminine and fresh look with violet and
sugared pink pastel shades on bone china for a
timeless, classic and design-led gift. Prices range
from £49.99 for four 7.5-inch diameter bowls,
to £59.99 for four chic cups and saucers. Visit
www.evthokia.co.uk for more information
on other items in the range.
The Personalised Memento Company
supplies a wide range of personalised gifts
to key retailers including engraved and
embroidered products, decorated glass
and ceramic items covering every occasion,
especially weddings.
The launch of the company’s new laser
engraver means PMC’s product range has
grown even further, from elegant toasting
flutes to wonderful wedding photo frames,
top table glassware to civil ceremony message
plates, and thank you teddy bears for little
flower girls and page boys.
Log on to the comprehensive website
www.personalisedmemento.co.uk for
further details.
giftfocus 67
wedding gifts
Royal Doulton
La Cafetière
Widdop Bingham
Repeat Repeat
Spaceform
happy ever after
Enesco
Creative Tops
Creative Tops has introduced a new
collection of fine bone china mugs inspired
by unique artwork from the archives of the
Victoria and Albert Museum. Each design has
been interpreted using original material to
create strong commercial surface patterns,
and inspiration has been drawn from sources
including traditional William Morris wallpapers,
exotic far eastern silks, various rare and
distinctive artefacts including a Japanese
Kimono and jacquard woven dress textiles.
Every mug is beautifully presented in a
unique gift box together with, swing tag,
explaining the history behind each design.
Email [email protected] for details.
Gillian Naylor and Mark Faulkner are the
designers behind award winning Stoke-onTrent based company Repeat Repeat. Their
products combine traditional craft methods
and modern industrial processes to create
hand decorated, bone china tableware and
mugs providing perfect gifts for today’s bride
and groom.
The modern His and Hers mugs, like all
Repeat Repeat products, are made in England
and feature the familiar male and female icons.
Access www.repeatrepeat.co.uk to find
out more.
68 giftfocus
Our Name Is Mud brings contemporary
designs and occasion-driven product themes
to Enesco’s current stable of brands. Known
for its bold, fresh and whimsical creations, the
Our Name Is Mud range includes personalised
pottery and ceramic tabletop assortments,
such as the Secrets of a Happy Marriage Jar.
The jar contains blank paper hearts on
which words of wisdom can be inscribed, then
the decorative jar can be presented as a gift
sure to be treasured for years to come. This
hand painted item uses lead-free, high-density
dolomite ceramic and is decorated with words
of advice from top to bottom.
For more information visit the website
www.enesco.co.uk.
Leading contemporary glassware company
Spaceform is expanding its extensive
offering with a unique bespoke wedding gift
service. Created to offer couples a personal
gift to present to their guests, the new service
is ideal for independent retailers keen to
offer a high level of service. Customers can
choose from a selection of the most popular
pieces from Spaceform’s standard range and
have their initials and the date of the occasion
engraved for a memento of the day.
With a low minimum order for each piece,
even a variety of designs can be selected.
The company then sends a layout of the
final design straight to the customer so
they can make any final changes. Contact
Spaceform on +44 (0)20 7622 2227 for
further information.
As part of La Cafetière’s gift set range, the
Red Hot Chocolatière set makes a fun and
practical present for newlyweds. Designed
exclusively for La Cafetière by UK designer
Alison Appleton, the set is packaged in a
sturdy, fiery red and brown gift-box, containing
a striking chocolatière, two matching cups
and saucers, plus sachet of Red Hot Chilli
Chocolate drinking powder. To find out more
telephone +44 (0)1352 717 555.
Sentiment gift specialists Widdop Bingham
& Co have hundreds of photo frames for
preserving treasured wedding pictures, as well
as cool cufflinks and tie pins for the groom or
best man. The sophisticated Together Forever
collection has been designed by the company’s
in-house team exclusively for the UK market,
and allows the happy couple to arrange their
photographs for a co-ordinated look. For
further details visit www.widdops.co.uk. g
WIN!
to Home & Gift, Harrogate
LUXURY TRIP
Home & Gift is offering one lucky Gift Focus
reader, the chance to visit Home & Gift in
style this July with a luxury trip for two to
Harrogate.
Home & Gift, the industry’s favourite
event is taking place from Sunday 13th to
Wednesday 16th July 2008 in the beautiful spa
town of Harrogate.
Perfectly timed in July, this is your
opportunity to head to Harrogate and be the
first to discover over 900 exhibitors at the
largest gathering of brands and designers at
any UK trade event this summer.
Discover thousands of fresh new products
from design-led, collectable or traditional
gifts to home accessories, greetings cards &
stationery, fashion accessories & jewellery
and china & glass. In addition to these, you
can discover new products for 2008 including
70 giftfocus
bath & body, outdoor living accessories, art &
craft and fair trade goods. Home & Gift is the
perfect opportunity to begin your Christmas
ordering within the stunning outdoor
surroundings and splendour of Harrogate.
Not only will Home & Gift allow you to
catch up with existing suppliers and make
contact with over 400 brand new exhibitors,
but you will be able to combine this with the
many social and networking events happening
around the show.
Over the last 47 years, Home & Gift,
Harrogate has established itself as the
industry’s favourite trade show, and looks
forward to welcoming over 12,000 visitors to
this year’s show.
To register for Home & Gift, Harrogate
2008, please visit www.homeandgift.co.uk or
call the ticket hotline on 01923 690645.
The prize includes:
• Return travel to Harrogate from any location
in the UK (up to the value of £100)
• One night’s accommodation for two people,
in a top hotel in the centre of Harrogate
• A bottle of Champagne in your hotel room
• Two trade tickets to Home & Gift, Harrogate
for the duration of the show
• Free show catalogue
• Access to the Indigo Club Lounge for the
duration of the show, where members can
relax in sophisticated surroundings and enjoy
the benefits of being a Home & Gift VIP!
• Entry to all Home & Gift 2008 hosted
parties! g
For your chance to win simply enter online
at www.giftfocus.com. The closing date for
entries is 30th June 2008.
unregistered rightspatently clear?
Dids Macdonald, chief executive of ACID (Anti Copying In
Design) offers invaluable advice on unregistered design rights.
ACID (Anti copying in Design) holds thousands
of copies of members’ unregistered designs in
its free design deposit bank. This does not add
to a designer’s rights but provides independent
evidence of the date they are received and
helps members and individuals have an
effective document management system, which
will also help to protect their commercial
well-being. By sending designs to the Design
Deposit Bank it also provides a design audit
trail which can provide compelling, third party
evidence of prior art. Often in intellectual
property disputes those who are challenged
are unable to provide evidence of how a
design was created and by whom. Simple
signed and dated design drawings showing the
journey of stages from the seed of an idea to
market reality can be invaluable evidence when
tackling unauthorised copying.
What does the law say?
Since March 2002, two distinct, unregistered
design rights, both free and automatic, have
been in existence in the UK, covering different
“designs” but overlapping in their coverage. So
what designs are protected? By which right are
they protected? And what differences does it
make to you?
Unregistered UK Design Right
Introduced by the Copyright, Designs and
Patents Act 1998, Design Right applies to
original, non commonplace designs of the
shape or configuration of articles – which
means that it protects 3-D designs but NOT
pattern or ornamentation, which is 2-D.
• Design right is free and automatic, arising
when a design is first fixed in some form.
HOWEVER, it does not give you, the designer,
a monopoly.
• What it does do is allow you to stop
72 giftfocus
someone deliberately copying your design
• Design Right protection does not last very
long, either 10 years from the first marketing
of the design or 15 years from its original
creation; whichever is shorter.
• During the first five years you can stop
anyone from copying your design, but during
the latter period of the Design Right you must
agree to offer someone a licence (“a licence
of right”) to use your design if they seek it – if
you cannot agree the UK Intellectual Property
Office (UKIPO) can settle the terms of a
licence of right.
• The protection covers the UK only (and
some commonwealth countries).
Unregistered Community Design
• Like UK Design Right the Unregistered
Community Design right (UCD) is free and
automatic, and comes into force when a design
is first marketed.
• However, UCD protects only those designs
that could be registered as registered designs
– where the appearance of features, including
the lines, contours, colours, shape, texture,
materials or ornamentation of a product, must
be new and have an “individual character” (it
must produce a different overall impression on
an informed user to any other similar designs
in existence).
• UCD protection lasts three years from the
date when the design was first made available
to the public in the EU, and protects EU wide
(currently 27 member states).
• Usefully, with an UCD there is a provision
which allows you to register a Community
design within one year from the date of first
market entry, allowing an originator to test the
market before gong to the expense of applying
for a registered Community design.
• Like UK Design Right, UCD can only be used
to stop deliberate copying
Both the Community UCD and UK Design
Right run parallel, offering different free and
automatic rights.
Monopoly protection is available to
designers under the National Registered
Design systems www.ipo.gov.uk, the Registered
Community design www.oami.europa.eu or
through a single application to WIPO which
now includes 47 countries www.wipo.int.
ACID’s advice is to consider registering your
designs if at all possible, however effective
protection is also available through the
unregistered design system.
The information provided in this article
does not provide a complete statement of
the present law and you should always take
specialist intellectual property advice in respect
of your particular circumstances. g
Further information
For further details about ACID visit
www.acid.uk.com.
For the latest ACID updates visit the
ACID newsdesk at www.acidnews.info
For further information on deterrent
merchandise and legal agreements visit
www.acid.designsales.co.uk
men’s jewellery
tough lines
Men’s jewellery has come a long way from the days of medallion man
and is currently a boom area.
We take a look at some of the latest lines to meet growing demand.
Watch out ladies – the men are after their share of
the jewellery market and it’s not just watches and
cufflinks they’re after.
Jewellery designers and suppliers have been quick
to respond to the upsurge in interest, bringing out
increasing and varied ranges for men offering edgy
and masculine designs in everything from rings to
necklaces and bracelets.
Gone are the days when under-stated and practical
were the main criteria, nowadays men are looking for
variety to rival the women’s ranges. Jewellery is no
longer seen as a mainly feminine preserve and the
men want a wide selection to mix and match.
Men’s rings have seen particularly strong growth
particularly since the legislation of civil partnerships.
Until fairly recently the choice of wedding rings
for men was largely confined to gold and platinum
wedding bands.
Now there is a riot of choice, diamond set rings
have been proving particularly popular, as well as
modern, contemporary designs.
Emerging trends mix contemporary materials like
tough titanium, durable stainless steel and masculine
tungsten, combined with trendy rubber and leather.
Neck tags remain current with many variations
of the classic dog tag featuring different designs,
Electrickery
TreeOre
engravings or textured metal.
TreeOre offers a unique modern take on the
traditional dog tag.
The company specialises in handmade, limited
edition jewellery created by Elaine Elvins-Traquair for
men in search of smart and unique gifts.
Her new dog tag in sterling silver is made by hand
cutting, oxidising and texturising each piece and
features elements of her ‘Blown Away’ dandelion
design. A choice of finishes is available, and for an
individual touch the back of the blank tag can be
hand engraved with a personal message. Men’s gift
sets of selected items from the range including rings
and tie slides are also available. Access
www.treeore.co.uk for more information.
In line with the growing green movement, ecofriendly company Electrickery has designed and
developed a range of unusual shaped cufflinks using
recycled scrap circuit boards from the electronics
industry. An ideal gift for environmentally conscious
consumers and those working in the IT industry.
Each pair is unique and sits perfectly within square
and round shaped silver or gold plated mounts. Visit
www.electrickery.uk.com for more information.
Curteis Ltd
giftfocus 73
men’s jewellery
Kimberley Selwood
The nine sets of professional cufflinks in the
Annaleece range, available from Fraser Studios,
feature items crystallised with Swarovski for
an impressive edge to any outfit. Each style
is presented in a sophisticated gift box and
retail between £20 and £25, depending on the
number of stones in each link. The minimalist
Simply Black range includes three rhodiumplated tie-bars with black enamel, which retail
from £13 to £25, and are also gift boxed.
In addition there are two elegant tie pins
available priced £10 and £12. To find out more
telephone +44 (0)1592 774 540 or email
[email protected].
Curteis Ltd is one of the UK’s leading precious
metal jewellery manufacturers of fresh,
versatile and competitively priced ranges.
In addition to a wide range of gold, silver
and platinum chain and handmade pieces,
Curteis has launched Instinct, the new name
in fashionable jewellery for the gift trade. A
wide range of fashionable cuff links, modern
bracelets, necklaces and pendants are available,
presented in branded gift boxes. For further
details call Curteis on +44 (0)800 195 6771 or
visit www.curteis.com.
The Torn men’s jewellery range by up and
coming designer Kimberley Selwood combines
strong clean lines with ruggedness. The
distinctive chunky range stands out with its
unusual feature of blackened fractures through
dense metal. The use of oxidised silver gives
the range a dramatic look. All of the pieces
are handmade, crafted in quality sterling silver
with attention to detail. Henley-on-Thames
based Selwood’s individual designs have already
gained recognition winning several prestigious
prizes including the new designer Goldsmith
Award for Jewellery. Log on to the website
www.kimberleydesigns.co.uk to view more of
the designs.
Stainless steel, leather and rubber are key
materials used in the sleek and masculine
Homme collection from Italian company
Nomination. The bold new range comprises
versatile rings, bracelets, necklaces, cufflinks and
key chains that are appropriate gifts for pairing
with a classic suit or even a casual t-shirt.
The recognisable geometric lines and edges
that are featured throughout the range are
complemented by the rich colour and texture
of natural black agate, tiger eye and malachite
accents. Wholesale prices range from £27 to
£40. For more details visit the website
www.nomination.com.
Talbot Import Co has significantly expanded
its range of products aimed at children and
teenagers with both a pocket money and
a more expensive trend-led collection for
adults and teenage boys. The company's best
selling lines for the male teen include ranges
of skull, dragon, surf and urban street-wear
pewter pendants on black cord thong, as well
as necklaces and strap bracelets made from
wood, metal and shell beads on rubber and
leather cords or straps. Cool pewter skull rings,
dog tag and sharks tooth pendants are also
available for a rock star look. Visit
www.talbotfashions.com for all the latest.
Fraser Studios
So Jewellery
Following the successful launch of their sterling
silver So Male cufflinks collection earlier
this year, So Jewellery is adding new items,
which will incorporate modern materials and
semi-precious stones to give a fresh design
component to the range, which includes
masculine rings and pendants. For further
details visit www.sojewellery.eu. g
Nomination
Talbot Import Co
74 giftfocus
MADE IN LONDON
0208 672 1767
Hardwearing Jewellery
for Hardworking people!
Stainless Steel jewellery, dubbed the “New Silver”, is taking the
country by storm! Whilst silver and platinum prices are soaring,
Stainless Steel jewellery is affordable, stylish and really strong!
More and more retailers are realising the advantages:-
handmade, unique and limited
edition jewellery and giftware
for men and women
Being “stainless”, it is tarnish free so there is no time-consuming
cleaning to do as with silver jewellery! It keeps its perfect lustre for
much, much longer with very minimal maintenance!
It is hypoallergenic and an ideal jewellery for those allergic to many
metals!
It is inexpensive and affordable by all - our prices start at just 90p!!
It is ideal everyday jewellery – easy and comfortable to wear!
Take it on holiday and alleviate the concerns of taking expensive
pieces abroad!
It is modern and stylish and the new Gents’ designs encourage a whole
new customer base! Ideal for kids too with many items at “pocket
money” prices!
IF YOU’VE NEVER TRIED US BEFORE - GO ON “STEEL YOURSELF”!
Call for a catalogue now!
IFJ LIMITED
Jade House 25-27 Farnham Drive Reading RG4 6NY
Tel: 0118 - 947 1405 Fax: 0118 - 947 1605
[email protected] www.steelyourself.com
www.treeore.co.uk
[email protected]
elaine: 0121 236 0654 / 07773 771129
happily ‘eva’ after
Welsh gift and craft shop ‘eva’ is one of the latest additions to the popular
Mermaid Quay development in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Two of the
team, Natasha Tot and Vicki Benedict talk to Gift Focus about their new
enterprise and why confidence and creativity are key to their business.
With a strong focus on unique items
and production, ‘eva’ is one of the latest
additions to the 14,000 sq. metre, £25
million Mermaid Quay, a mixed restaurant,
bar, retail and services development, set in
a stunning waterfront location. The scheme
is a joint venture between Sovereign Land
and Schroder Exempt Property Unit Trust. It
is the focal point of Cardiff Waterfront and
is surrounded by prestigious new offices,
contemporary up-market residential projects
and complementary leisure uses.
Marketing manager of Mermaid Quay,
Tracey Morris explains: “Mermaid Quay is a
centre famous for its restaurants, bars and
cafés with a few shops. As the centre has
grown it has become evident that it needed
more retail to keep the customers’ interest
and for them to return time and time again,
not just to dine out but also to browse.
“Bute Street in Mermaid Quay lends itself
nicely to shops and it’s been a conscious effort
to choose shops that, in the main, are unique
and independent. We have a designer eyewear
and sunglasses shop, an award-winning hair
salon with treatments, an art gallery, some
clothes shops, a convenience store as well as
eva, that sells hand made giftware, cards and
art as well as other items such as bags, scarves
and jewellery.
“As Mermaid Quay is a destination, it is
important to provide the customer with an
offer that they can’t get on the high street and
to help it stand out as an area to visit.”
Eva is the collaborative brainchild of
Natasha Tot, Vicki Benedict, and Nicola Day,
a talented trio who all met through Craft
Folk, a series of organised craft festivals held
throughout Wales. All the hand crafted gifts
and products that fill the shelves at their new
shop they design and make themselves.
Nicola’s exclusive line, ‘Land of Make Believe’,
includes wooden bookends, mobiles, name
boards, clocks and jigsaws. Serbian-born
Natasha decorates wooden items and
76 giftfocus
produces greeting cards and notebooks, as
well as creating a range of glass frames and
lamps, while Vicki takes her inspiration for her
silk scarves, handbags and flowers from her
travels around the world.
What is your core customer base?
Existing clients and passing trade are our core
business as the shop is a permanent site, while
craft fairs are only for two to four weeks, four
times a year.
How did the three of you meet, and
how did the business begin?
We met doing craft fairs, as attending and
exhibiting at exhibitions is always useful to
extend your client and contact base. We all
worked independently, but sometimes did
work together at Craft Folk and at shopping
centres in Cardiff. The business began as ‘eva’
when we opened on the 21st of September
last year.
How do you decide which products or
designs will go into the shop?
Everything is going into the shop, as we
all have similar design taste and trust one
another’s choices. Vibrant colours and unusual
designs are popular as well as standard
products, and looking at new trends and
colours are key factors when looking for new
and exciting lines.
Why do you think hand-made gifts
have become a popular choice?
The products that we create are personalised
by the nature of what they are, and people
are attracted to the individual and unique feel
of hand crafted gifts. Gifts should be more
unique as they are being given as a present,
and should be more thoughtful because of
this. We make a conscious effort to keep
prices down to dispel the myth that hand
retailer interview
What was it that attracted you to
Mermaid Quay as a location?
We liked the European look of the Bay,
Natasha being Serbian and Vicki having
German parentage. In the Bay it is easy
to stand out, as there are not any shops
like us here! We have had a very positive
response from customers, the other shops
and traders, the cafés, and the Mermaid Quay
management, who we get on well with.
Mermaid Quay is still developing and it
offers a more relaxed but exciting atmosphere
for shopping.
crafted gifts are more expensive, and also to
promote them and to increase their popularity.
How has the business evolved?
We all have a love of art and design, colour,
pattern and texture, which started from when
we were young and then progressed through
art college. The key lessons that we have
learnt since starting out are to be individual,
to believe in your promotions, and to not
sell yourself short. Visual merchandising and
presentation is also very important.
Are environmental considerations and
green issues important to the business?
This varies between us as we are different
artists, but the wood that Nicola uses is
specially ordered to make sure that it does
not affect the rainforest, and the dye that
she uses is also eco-friendly. Whilst Vicki’s bag
designs are her own, if we do order any in
then we ensure that they are fair trade.
What was your vision for the
appearance and styling of the shop?
Eva means “Eve” in Welsh as well as in Serbian,
which reflects Natasha’s nationality, and the
idea behind the shop was of women coming
together to create art, which is how we all
met. We wanted a space where artists could
come together which was bright and eyecatching at the same time, as our products are
aimed at children.,
How do you promote your shop?
Through craft fairs, which we still do, and by
word of mouth, as well as newspaper and
magazine articles. We have been in Cardiff Life
three times, The Echo newspaper, and have
been featured on the Mermaid Quay website.
What has been your greatest challenge
to date?
Making enough stock to keep up with
customer demand!
In the current economic climate what
do you consider to be the essentials for
survival?
In the current climate, not to go too quickly
and invest too much! We are establishing
our own unique, individual identity here at
Mermaid Quay.
In the face of increased competition
from the multiples, and the Internet
how do you see retailing evolving over
the coming years?
One day we will all have Internet sites, but
it is still crucial to keep the shop to maintain
customer contact.
What advice would you give any wouldbe gift retailers?
Be different! And believe in yourself.
What are your plans for the future?
Introducing new lines, expanding and moving
into a bigger shop. g
giftfocus 77
Subscribe to Gift Focus
Fill in the form below to receive a regular copy
of your favourite magazine
next issue...
Claremont & May
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 Kline Davis Ltd, Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham,
Essex CM8 2UL. Alternatively, photocopy the form and fax to 01376 514
555 or register online at www.giftfocus.com.
Fright Night
Hot items for Halloween.
Do you work within the giftware industry?
Yes
Name
Alsuna
No
Job title
Company name
Address
Postcode
Telephone
Facsimile
Email address
Please tick one or more of the boxes below which
best describe your business
Independent Gift Shop
Importer
Gift Shop Multiple
Mail Order
Garden Centre
Agent/Rep
Department Store
Manufacturer
Wholesaler/Cash & Carry
Museum/Heritage Outlet
Smart product picks.
Other (Please specify)
Number of Employees
1-5
6-15
51-100
101-300
Annual Turnover
£0-£25000
Educational Toys
16-30
31-50
301-1000
1001 +
£25,001 - £50,000
£50,001 - £100,000
£100,001 - £250,000
£250,001 - £1,000,000
£1,000,001 - £5,000,000
£5,000,001 - £10,000,000
£10,000,001 - £50,000,000
Home & Gift
Preview
Your guide to this essential
buying event.
Plus
£50,000,001 +
Do you wish to receive a free copy of Gift Focus Magazine?
Yes
Signature
No
Date
Send the completed form to Gift Focus Magazine,
Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2UL.
Alternatively, register online at www.giftfocus.com.
78 giftfocus
Issue 48
July/August 2008
Available from: 30th June 2008
Advertising
Deadline:
13th June 2008
• Glassware
• Stationery
and Giftwrap
• Home
Accessories
product showcase
We reveal some of this season’s hottest gifts
Trumpette baby socks
V&A Garden Tools
Beautifully designed socks in assorted colours and all delightfully gift
wrapped, Trumpette baby socks are utterly adorable. Tiny and charming
socks that look like little booties and ballet shoes, socks that rock,
cowboy and cowgirl boots and the classic mary jane and many more.
Who can resist? They make the perfect baby gift and they really do
stay on! They come in baby and toddler sizes made from cotton with a
little bit of spandex with non slip soles.
Visit www.wildandwolf.com, contact
[email protected] or tel 01225
789909 for their latest catalogue. You
can see their full range of eclectic
award winning products at
Pulse, Stand L44, Earls Court 1
– 3 June and Home &Gift, stand
DP2-59,Harrogate, 13 – 16 July.
Truly delicious watering cans are the latest addition to the fabulous V&A
range of tools and garden tools from Wild and Wolf in collaboration with
the V&A. Available in three classic William Morris prints daisy, cray and
anemone these mouth watering cans continue with the Wild and Wolf
ethos of being Pretty and Useful.
Visit www.wildandwolf.com, contact [email protected] or tel
01225 789909 for their latest
catalogue. You can see their
full range of eclectic award
winning products at Pulse,
Stand L44, Earls Court 1
– 3 June and Home & Gift,
stand DP2-59, Harrogate, 13
– 16 July.
MAKE A NOTE…….
Positively Blooming
To visit Clere Concepts’ stand and see the new range of notebooks, pill
boxes, mirrors and other handbag accessories.
Encrusted with crystal and pearl, these items hint at a bygone age of
elegance and charm. With cost prices of £4.25 and £4.65 they are sure
to make useful and affordable presents.
See us at the Summer Fair,
ExCel London, stand E100
For more information
please call 01635 297911
fax 01635 299237
email
[email protected]
or visit
www.clereconcepts.co.uk
Eden is a simply stunning new range of readers from Clere Vision. The
floral design, which is etched by laser, comes in bottle green/lime, black/
hot pink, blue/turquoise and chocolate/rust. With a cost price of £5.50,
they are guaranteed to help sales blossom!
See us at the Summer Fair, ExCel London, stand E100
For more information please call: 01635 297911
fax: 01635 299237
email: [email protected]
or visit our website:
www.clerevision.co.uk
Opulence Collection
Stunning Steel
We are pleased to announce the arrival of nine stunning square
mat designs in our Opulence collection. The range includes both
contemporary and traditional styles. For people who like modern
designs we have Luna Abstract and Resort, both designs are extremely
versatile and would look good in any contemporary dining room setting.
If you’re thinking about creating a really dramatic effect in the dining
room then consider Poppies by Night. The mats have a luxurious black
velvet backing and are coated
with a hard wearing matt finish.
For more information please
call 0845 0346660 or email
[email protected]
Introducing one of Bandman & Choker’s new ranges for this season
- ‘Stunning Steel’ - A striking unisex range of stainless steel pendants,
spinning rings and adjustable bracelets with fab cut out designs, a sure
favourite for all ages. To see more of this exciting new range, and many
more new lines,
please call for a
free brochure on
01323 731002
or email info@
bandmanandchoker.
com. Next exhibiting
Surf Shop Westpoint
2nd - 5th September
stand P43.
Minimum order £50
80 giftfocus
G
G
UPG SJFOE
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. "
G
G
J
J
G
(
I
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. " JGUPG JFOET
W
P
Q
J
J
5.
M
J
S
S
G
(
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. " JGUPG JFOE
W
P
Q
J
J
5.
M
J
S
GS
G
(
(
I
F 5. " JGUPG JFOET QBOE PWF 5. " JGUPG JF
J
S
S
M
"( GUPGG
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F
F
W
W
.
.
J
J
P
5
JQ
SJ
MP 5
"( GUPGG
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F
F
W
W
.
.
(J PG
(J PGGSJ ETIJQ BOEMP F5
EMP F5
"
"
U
GU
FO
5.
MPW 5.
MPW
(JG
IJQ
GSJ
(J
BOE MPWF 5. " JGUPG JFOET JQBOE MPWF 5. "
G
(J
( PGGS
E
E
TI
O
E
O
"
"
F
F
B
B
O
U
JG
Q
5.
MPW
JQ
SJF
MPW 5.
(
OE WF . "( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. "
B
W
P
Q
J
J
P
Q
5
M
M
J
IJ
( PGGS
E
ETI BOE
F 5.
O
U
W
BO MPWF 5. "
G
F
P
Q
J
J
Q
M
J
J
I
I
( PGGS
E
E
OET JQBO MPWF 5.
OET JQBO MPWF 5. "
U
G
F
J
J
S
OE
ETI
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
WF 5.
P
Q
J
J
JFO TIJQB EMPWF 5.
M
J
S
I
( PGG
E
OET JQBO MPWF
OE JQBO MPWF 5. "
U
G
F
F
J
J
J
S
S
(
E
E
TI
TI
GG
GG
FOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP GSJFOE IJQBO MPWF
J
S
G
E
E
T
TI
G
PG
FOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP GSJFOE IJQBO MP
J
S
G
E
T
G
OE
ETI
"
PG
GUP GSJFOE JQBO
J
JGU GSJFO IJQB EMPWF 5.
(
I
E
T
G
"
OET
UPG
BO
WF
GUP GSJFOE JQBO
J
(
(JG PGGSJF ETIJQ OEMP 5.
I
T
G
B
WF 5. "
GUP GSJFOE JQBO
GU
FO
J
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
G
(
(
I
E
TI
T
"
UPG SJFOE JQ
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. "
G
G
J
J
G
(
I
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. " JGUPG JFOET
W
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
S
I
( PGG
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
OET
U
WF 5. "
G
F
J
J
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
S
( PGG
E
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
WF 5. "
JGU
P
Q
J
J
M
J
SJFO
S
G
G
(
(
I
E
T
G
G
O
E
P
"
P
"
JGU GSJF
JGU GSJFO IJQB EMPWF 5.
(
(
T
G
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP G
J
(
E
TI
G
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP
J
(
I
E
T
G
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP
J
(
I
"
"
F
PG
BOE
OET
F F E "(JGU PGGSJF ETIJQ OEMPW F5.
O
O
D
U
B
W
(JG PGGSJF ETIJQ OEMP 5.
s
8
l
l
"
4 ll DoEE ing
B
WF
GU
FO
.
a FR ag
(J PGGSJ ETIJQ BOEMP F5
"
Smwith Pack
O
U
W
G
F
&
S
4
(J PGGSJ ETIJQ OEMP 5.
PO
7
"
£1 g e F
JGU GSJFO IJQB EMPWF 5.
(
T
c a r ri a
"
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5.
G
J
G
ETI BOE
"( GUPG
O
WF
F
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
G
(
I
E
T
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MPWF
J
(
I
E
T
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MP
J
(
I
OE
ET
PG
"
JGU GSJFO IJQB E
(
O
ET
PG
"
JGU GSJFO IJQB
(
T
O
E
PG
"
JGU GSJFO IJQB
5.
(
T
G
E
P
"
F
JGU GSJFO IJQ
MPW 5.
(
T
E
G
UP SJFOE
BO MPWF 5. "
G
J
Q
J
G
I
I
( PG
E
OET
U
OET JQBO MPWF 5. "
G
F
F
J
J
J
S
S
G
(
G
E
TI
G
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. "
GUP GSJFOE
G
J
J
(
G
E
TI
G
"( GUPG
FOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP GSJF
J
J
S
G
(
I
E
T
G
G
"
GUP GSJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. " (JGUP G
J
(
I
E
T
"
UPG
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5. "
G
G
J
J
(
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. " JGUPG
W
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
(
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
F 5. " JG
W
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
(
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
WF 5. "
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
(
"( GUPGG FOETI BOE
WF 5. "
P
Q
J
J
M
J
S
E
"( GUPGG FOETI Russian
F 5. "
BO MPWGifts
Q
J
J
J
S
G
E
TI
"( GUPG
BO 5484
WF 5.
FOE 241
P
Q
J
J
0845
M
J
S
G
(
E
TI
"
UPG SJFOE JQBO MPWF 5.
Gwww.
J
G
the-goldenring.com
giftfocus
81
(
I
OE
ET
PG
"
F
JGU
MPW
JQB
SJFO
Batucada jewellery
A whole new generation of jewellery! This eco friendly jewellery gives
a great henna tattoo effect as it adapts to the contours of your body
like a second skin. It’s made from silicon rubber and is ultra lightweight,
waterproof, flexible and tough and looks pretty fabulous too.
Bracelets and necklaces in a dazzling array of styles and colours, prices
start at £9.95 retail.
Visit www.wildandwolf.com, contact [email protected] or tel
01225 789909 for their latest
catalogue. You can see them at
Pulse, Stand L44, Earls Court
1 – 3 June and Home&Gift,
stand DP2-59, Harrogate,
13 – 16 July to see their
full range of eclectic award
winning products.
R
Whimsical wooden products hand painted by the artists at Angelic
Hen. Pushing pegs to their limit with Pegged Out products, witty Door
Hangers and clever Key Racks.Transform your child with Wild Child
Frames. See our new extended range of Jolly Useful Key Rings and Chalk
Boards for bored chalk!
Take notice of your family
with The Family Notice
Board and communicate
without email in the
office using our new
designer Desk Signs. Visit
www.angelic-hen.co.uk or
contact mari@angelic-hen.
co.uk, tel 01600 719536.
EE
Angelic Hen
R
Responding to the growing trend of connoisseur dining Evthokia works
your table this season with sweet violet and sugared pink pastel shades
on bone china. The Shelley collection provides a fresh and feminine look
ideal for outdoor dining or the perfect design-led gift.
For classy dinner engagements impress guests with
our ultra chic Luxury collection of tableware and
matching accessories.
To view our full
collections, submit trade
enquiries and place
orders online visit our
website:
www.evthokia.co.uk or
call 020 8395 2848
LI MIT
Evthokia Ltd
E
"
in the pink
Who says gardening has to be all muddy wellies,
rusty old tools and moth-eaten togs? We meet
two entrepreneurs determined to bring a touch
of girlie fun and glamour to this favourite pastime.
Ever ything in the garden’s rosy for friends
and business par tners Helen James and
Cathy Caudwell Todd.
The enterprising duo are on a mission to
elevate gardening from the compost heap
and inject it with a dose of girlie glamour
and pink pizazz.
Working on the principle that many
women like pink, shopping, wine and gossip
they put the lot together and the concept
of Girlie Gardening was born in June 2005.
They began creating a fresh new look
for the UK’s par ty plan scene by selling
gardening accessories exclusively for
women in their homes, at the golf club,
school etc., usually accompanied by drinks
and laughter.
With little or no experience, it was a
daunting task, especially as Helen has five
children, Cathy has two and until recently
was flying long haul for British Airways.
However, fuelled by imagination and
spade loads of determination, nearly
three years on they now have a sizeable
warehouse stocked to the rafters with
Girlie Gardening goodies, an increasing
number of agents and the beginnings of a
very positive wholesale business.
“We had both wanted to star t our own
business – Cathy is a keen gardener, I am
a quick learner! We were able to identify a
niche where women wanted to have ‘pretty
things’ to use in the garden and where
gardening became a fun family activity,
rather than a chore. Initially we had a small
shop in Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales.
This quickly developed into the par ty plan
HQ but within a shor t space of time we
outgrew our premises and now operate
from warehousing on the outskir ts of
Skipton,” explains Helen.
All their products are designed in house
and as busy working mums everything has
to be practical as well as fun. Their best
selling products include the popular pink
watering can, which is where the whole
concept star ted, pink lady gloves – designed
to make gardening easier for girl-sized
hands, fleece kneelers, wellies and wellie
warmers covered in girlie kisses.
“Initially we took the tack that if we liked
something then so too would other
women. This seemed to work. We try to
incorporate some quirky feature into the
design that makes the product more fun.
For example we have produced wellie
warmers with a small pocket on the cuff. All
our gorgeous Girlie Gardeners put lip balm
in there for totally kissable lips even after a
day in the garden!
“Our cute One Bum and Two Bum picnic
rugs have integral pockets to put car keys
and mobile phones, thus preventing that
inevitable family row as to who had the car
keys last!” laughs Helen.
The early par t of 2007 saw expansion
take a different path, when Peter Jones
(of Dragon’s Den fame) selected the
Girlie Gardeners from 16,500 aspiring
businesses to be one of six finalists in the
ITV1 programme Tycoon. The girls went on
to come second in the competition and
gained massive exposure from the six-week
programme. “The competition cer tainly
broadened our horizons in terms of where
we could take our brand,” explains Helen.
“Obviously as a result of the programme
the profile of the brand has increased
dramatically and we are now referred to as
The Girlie Gardeners.
“Girlie Gardening has been a great fun
company and brand to develop and we are
both very proud of what we are achieving.
“There is no doubt that it is injecting a
sorely needed bit of humour into the
gardening sector and is a huge boost to the
gift sector – it’s new and it’s different.” g
For fur ther information call
+44 (0)1756 797 877 or visit the
website www.girliegardening.com.
82 giftfocus