The Giftware Association (GA) announces Sarah Ward has stepped down as CEO, creating a pivotal opportunity to move the association forward.
Tom Jones, CEO of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), will step in as interim CEO, ensuring continuity and supporting the GA's mission to serve its members during this critical time.
The giftware industry is undergoing significant change, with new opportunities and challenges emerging daily. At this critical juncture, the GA remains committed to its mission of providing resources, connections, and advocacy to help members thrive in a competitive global marketplace. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, the GA aims to drive growth and continued success for the industry and its members.
The GA would like to extend its gratitude to Sarah for her leadership and the valuable contributions during her time as CEO.
Posted: 21 February 2025
UK clothing manufacturers are riding high on a wave of newfound confidence, as figures reveal a dramatic uplift in sales revenue and purchasing.
Small and mid-sized firms saw their average sales jump by 128 percent in the third quarter of 2024, while the number of purchase orders (POs) placed with suppliers was also up by 123 percent, according to a report from inventory management software provider Unleashed.
Fashion manufacturers – which includes footwear and accessories – saw the fourth biggest jump in sales revenue out of all the 12 manufacturing categories analysed. It also saw the second biggest rise in POs.
Posted: 3 February 2025
The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has announced the appointment of Mehdi Saadian, Director of the GIA London campus, as the new Vice Chair of the NAJ.
A distinguished member of the jewellery and valuation profession, Mehdi is an active member of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts. He has played a significant role in the NAJ's National Committee since joining in 2022, contributing to simplifying, standardising and visualising the governance model of the Association. Mehdi will succeed Adam Jacobs as Chair in 2026.
Commenting on his new role, Mehdi shared, "I'm truly honoured to take on the role of Vice Chair at the NAJ."
Posted: 27 January 2025
The global spotlight is on India's textile industry, which skilfully weaves centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation.
As one of the largest textile producers globally, India is poised to solidify its leadership amidst growing demand for sustainability, high-performance fabrics, and competitive supply chains. With the industry projected to grow to USD 350 billion by 2030 and expected to add 35 million new jobs, India's textile sector is at the forefront of shaping a massive economic and employment expansion.
India's textile industry, a cornerstone of the economy, contributes 2.3% to the GDP and employs over 45 million people directly, with an additional 55 million indirectly involved across the value chain.
Posted: 23 January 2025
The renowned shoe brand Peter Kaiser sets new standards in sales promotion by supporting retail teams at the point of sale (POS). With an innovative concept, the aim is to strengthen the motivation and engagement of customer advisors from retail partners on the sales floor, increase sales, and enhance brand awareness.
Under the title We Boost Your Sales, the concept combines five measures, including personal communication, modern training methods, and attractive customer promotions. A special highlight is the 'After Work Bag,' personally presented to store sales staff by Peter Kaiser sales representatives. The elegantly designed bag, featuring Prosecco and premium branded glasses, invites retail employees to discover the collections and brand values of Peter Kaiser in a relaxed atmosphere.
Posted: 20 January 2025
Retro trends, preppy and Brat Girl fashions and travel returning to pre-covid levels were among the biggest influences on our shopping habits.
That's according to John Lewis's annual trend report How We Shop, Live and Look, which looks at the products and trends that defined the past year.
'Social shopping' is definitely in fashion. One in five (19 percent) of the 1,996 customers surveyed said they have shopped more with friends and family this year, and nearly seven in 10 (68 percent) of them said they like to combine it with other activities like eating out. This tallies with John Lewis data, which shows that more than three quarters of a million more customers ate in its Place to Eat restaurants over the past year.
Posted: 17 December 2024
Gift cards are proving to be a game-changer for retailers, offering a dual advantage of attracting new customers and driving incremental spend. Brands participating in multistore gift card schemes or offering their own gift cards are reaping the rewards, particularly from younger demographics like Millennials, who are embracing gift cards for their convenience and flexibility.
The latest research from the Gift Card & Voucher Association (GCVA) and Global Data highlights how gift cards are effective tool for channeling consumer behaviour by not only introducing new shoppers to brands but also encouraging them to 'upgarde' their purchase beyond the card's value.
Posted: 4 December 2024
Fashion retailers could be in for bumper sales this Black Friday after new figures show the sector is expected to see the biggest uplift in web traffic this year.
Digital PR agency Tank analysed keywords for over 150 retailers from November 2023 to October 2024 to reveal which companies and products are set to dominate search results – putting them in poll position to generate sales on 29 November.
It comes following growing criticism that Google updates are directing more online traffic to news sites with affiliate links, rather than retailers' pages – potentially disadvantaging even big brands. However, with Google announcing a November core update on Monday 11 November, businesses will be paying an even closer eye on visibility and traffic in the coming weeks.
Posted: 27 November 2024
Christmas spending is set to hit £88.29bn this year as consumers boost spending on festive celebrations after years of Christmas cutbacks.
VoucherCodes.co.uk's Shopping for Christmas Report 2024 forecasts a 4 percent boost in sales this festive season, with consumers spending on gifts, food and drink, and holiday travel.
Whilst this rise comes partly from inflation, it's also driven by a 1.4 percent rise in sales volume year-on-year, as consumers have more money in their pockets to buy more items.
Whereas other European nations will see a decline in spend YoY, the UK is the only nation out of seven analysed to see a healthy boost in festive sales.
Posted: 11 November 2024
Durango® Boots, a leading name in western footwear, is thrilled to announce its expansion into the UK market. Known for their lightweight, tough, and unbelievably comfortable designs, Durango® Boots are crafted for the western lifestyle—whether you're riding and roping, on the job, or on the town.
Founded in Flowery Branch, Georgia in 1966, and now headquartered in Nelsonville, Ohio, Durango® Boots has spent decades perfecting innovative western boots that cater to the diverse needs of their customers. From cowboys and ranchers to urban workers and fashion-forward individuals.
Durango® Boots are made for what you do. Durango® performance boots are engineered with the utmost attention to crucial functionality, both inside and outside the arena.
Posted: 30 September 2024
