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
Hyve Group, a global leader in events and exhibitions, has announced the exciting co-location of Autumn Fair and Glee at the NEC Birmingham. Autumn Fair will take place 6th – 9th September 2026 and Glee will take place 8th – 10th September 2026.
This strategic move by two industry-leading trade exhibitions unlocks multiple benefits for their respective sectors, creating a stronger, future-proofed platform that supports the long-term retail growth and successes of the industries they represent.
Sitting alongside Autumn Fair, the UK's leading home, gift, and fashion exhibition with a four-day content programme, Glee, the premier event for the garden retail sector, will continue as a dedicated three-day showcase for the garden, leisure, and pet industries.
Posted: 18 February 2025
Scoop opened its doors at Olympia West today, creating a dynamic showroom environment filled with an electric atmosphere, setting the stage for a season of style and discovery. Visitors eagerly arrived to be among the first to explore over 250 designer collections, including Fabienne Chapot, Isabelle Blanche, Sophie + Lucie, Sitting Suits, and many more. Independent retailers—including Young Ideas, Pamela Shiffer, Anne Furbank, Domino Style, Cream, and Cordelia James—as well as a host of Irish retailers, including Nu Chic, Sorrento, Rococo, Macbees, Ribbon Rouge, and Sybil, explored the expertly curated selection of designers.
Posted: 10 February 2025
As the doors close on the 75th edition of Spring Fair, the UK's largest retail trade show for Home, Gift & Fashion, the NEC Birmingham has been buzzing with energy, innovation, and meaningful connections. Over four days, more than 38,000 retail buyers and industry professionals gathered to discover the latest trends, meet suppliers, and be part of the ever-evolving retail landscape.
Posted: 10 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
Spring Fair, the UK's largest retail trade show for Home , Gift & Fashion at the NEC in Birmingham, opens on Sunday 2nd February celebrating 75 years heritage as well as double digit growth in exhibitor numbers for this year's show, delivering unmatched newness, diversity and inspiration. The Show will open with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9am with Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen
Posted: 30 January 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
Source Fashion, Europe's leading responsible sourcing show, is excited to announce the launch of its informative new podcast series, 'Honest, Not Perfect', in collaboration with leading retail trends consultancy Insider Trends. This innovative podcast dives deep into the world of sustainable sourcing with industry experts including Retail 100 and AllSaints founder Stuart Trevor, offering actionable insights and unfiltered discussions on helping retail become more responsible.
Introducing: Honest, Not Perfect
Designed for sustainability professionals and retail innovators, the Honest, Not Perfect podcast focuses on progress over perfection. Co-hosted by Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director at Source Fashion, and Jack Stratten of Insider Trends, the series features candid conversations with industry disruptors, thought leaders and experts, exploring the stories, strategies, and solutions shaping the future of responsible retail.
Posted: 14 January 2025
