PREVIEW PREVIEW - Gift Focus magazine

Issue 57 January/February 2010
www.giftfocus.com
Official media partner for Spring Fair International 2010
Novelty Gifts
Fun lines to fly off the shelves
Great Great
GREENS
Spotlight on planet
friendly products
WIN! WIN!
Fabulous Fabulous products products
from from Ashleigh Ashleigh
& Burwood’s Burwood’s
Fragrance Fragrance Lamp Lamp
range range
www.giftfocus.com
BIGGEST BIGGEST
EVER EVER ISSUE! ISSUE!
SPRING FAIR
PREVIEW
Mother’s Day
Top Top gifts for mums
Clock Clock picture picture special
Time pieces that that tick all all the boxes
PLUS
• Hot trends for 2010
• Fashion handbags
• New product showcase

January/February 2010 Issue 57
Group Editor
Emma Cant
+44 (0)1376 535 609
emmac@klinedavis.com
Editor
Sarah Reeve
+44 (0)1376 535 614
editor@giftfocus.com
Editorial Assistant
Rianna Fry
+44 (0)1376 535 613
riannaf@giftfocus.com
Sales Manager
Mark White
+44 (0)1376 535 606
markw@giftfocus.com
Sales Executive
Sharon Connelly
+44 (0)1376 535 607
sharonc@giftfocus.com
Design Manager
Vicky O'Connor
+44 (0)1376 535 616
vickyo@giftfocus.com
Graphic Designers
Sarah Barnes, Sophie Farage, Laura Perry,
Steve Mckea, Leanne Walsh
+44 (0)1376 535 616
Production Manager
Stuart Weatherley
Administration
Scott Brothwell
+44 (0)1376 514 000
KD Media Publishing Ltd
Broseley House
Newlands Drive
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL
www.giftfocus.com
Cover courtesy of Enesco
www.enesco.co.uk
Gift Focus is solely owned, published and
designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst
every effort was made to ensure the information
in this magazine was correct at the time of going
to press, the publishers cannot accept legal
responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor
can they accept responsibility of the standing of
advertisers nor by the editorial contributions.
The views expressed do not necessarily refl ect
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 KD Media Publishing
Limited and sent to Gift Focus @ Broseley
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CM8 2UL.
MEDIA SUPPORTER
ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN
Average Net
Circulation: 7,438
(01/07/08 to 30/06/09)
Gift Focus magazine is proud to be associated
with and supporters of:
contents
news&events
industry news 6
All the latest from the world of gifts
on with the show 10
Trade fair dates and news
brand spanking new 14
Latest launches and hot new products
hot property 51
Spotlight on the world of licensing
competition 179
Win fabulous products from Ashleigh & Burwood
q&a special 181
Our experts tackle your retail queries
focus on...
insurance 24
Insurance health check for the trade show season
retail technology 32
Choosing a website designer
retailer initiatives 46
Planning promotions for high returns
the ga 72
All the latest from The Giftware Association
business link 171
Staffi ng and recruitment advice
tales of the unexpected 175
Expert guidance on business continuity planning
acid 184
Keeping an eye on the small print to help fi ght
copying
features
mother’s day 35
Fab treats for mum’s special day
fun-tastic 43
Latest hot novelty lines
time well spent 48
Clock picture showcase
51
the in thing 55
Trend predictions for 2010
fashion handbags 58
Bags of style with new season must-haves
make your mark 63
National competition for rising retail stars
winning ways 69
Award winning entrepreneurs
retailer interview 164
Revisiting Bohemia one year on
eco logic 186
We talk to Envirosax founder Belinda David-Tooze
up and coming 194
Great cushion creations from rising young star
special feature
green gifts 27
Spotlight on natural and organic products
27
shows
Christmasworld 38
Insight into a world of event decoration
Ambiente 66
New decade, new look for this international trade
show
Spring Fair International 75
Your essential bumper preview
Accent Asia 169
Raising the curtain on London Asia Expo
giftfocus 3

igger and better
Welcome to the biggest ever edition of Gift
Focus Magazine!
Nearly 200 pages, choc full of fabulous new
products, latest trends, top business tips, bumper
Spring Fair International preview, plus much,
much more…
We are kick starting the new year firmly
focused on the job in hand - delivering packed
pages, crammed full of recession-busting
products, industry news and initiatives from
home and abroad. There’s certainly plenty to get excited about in this
bumper issue.
However, just as talk of emerging green shoots has been gathering
momentum, down came the snow!
At the time of writing, the country had been struggling under a
blanket of the white stuff for days. Some parts of the country were
completely cut off, schools shut, roads and transport hit.
It comes as a particularly cruel blow to business, with many shoppers
battening down the hatches and staying close to home instead of hitting
the high street.
At peak January sale time this will come as a bitter pill, particularly
after what for many had been a better retail Christmas in 2009 than the
previous year.
However, let’s hope the growing spirit of optimism tangible in the
latter part of 2009 will continue and those delicate green shoots will
survive the snow ready to burst forth soon.
With the dawning of the new year and a new decade, a spirit of
newness is certainly in the air. There’s mounting anticipation over the
forthcoming Spring Fair International 2010, which opens in Birmingham
on February 7 th raising the curtain on thousands of new products, new
features, new initiatives as well as a newly improved, customer-friendly
face to the show.
Great efforts have been made behind the scenes to deliver the event
the industry wants and needs. We speak to Louise Young, managing
director of show organiser Emap Connect Home & Gift, about moving
forward into a new era for Spring Fair International. We also reveal
some of the exciting product launches set to be unveiled at the show in
our bumper preview starting on page 75.
As an official media sponsor of the event Gift Focus and sister title
Attire Accessories will be available at the NEC from the media village
and The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year house in Hall 9. Don’t
forget to stop by and pick up your copy.
In this edition we also cast the spotlight on forthcoming trends for
the year ahead and offer valuable advice for business success from
industry experts.
There’s also a wealth of other show news, product showcases and
inspiring features to help get through the coldest of snaps.
Whatever the weather, here at Gift Focus we are excited about the
year ahead and are keeping our fingers crossed for a successful and
snow-free Spring Fair!
See you there….
�����
Sarah Reeve
Editor
giftfocus 5

industry news
Catch up on all the latest in our news round-up
Older, Wiser…Sexier
The popular cartoon greeting card series by
Bev Williams now features in two new gift
books just out.
With a version for women and a version
for men the new Older, Wiser… Sexier books
cover topics such as baldness, drinking and
keeping your looks. Perfect gifts for the young
at heart!
Over the years Bev Williams’ hilarious
greeting cards have brought many wry smiles
to the faces of millions. These cheeky but charming books bring together the best of the
cartoons with witty quotations.
Both Older, Wiser... Sexier books are published by Summersdale from February 1 st 2010. To
fi nd out more telephone +44 (0)1243 771 107 or visit the website www.summersdale.com.
Envirosax® takes a stand
Envirosax®, a
leading exponent
of re-usability, is
carrying the ecofriendly
message
through to its trade
show stands.
Envirosax is
furthering the
company’s ethos
by ensuring that
they display their
eco-products at
forthcoming trade
shows with a new,
more eco-friendly
stand design.
Envirosax, Australia’s original designer reusable bag brand, has decided to extend its ‘green’
ethos right through to its exhibitor presence at trade shows for 2010. The ultimate eco-friendly
stand for Envirosax has been developed by the German design company, Gewerk.
Made of eco-friendly material the stands are strong and stable, produced from a combination
of aluminium and ash wood from sustainable sources.
They are easy to carry, easy to put up and dismantle and easy to move. The stand unfolds
from its own storage box, which then converts into a table, which is ready to use.
The “booths in a box” are light weight and portable, allowing a signifi cant reduction in
transportation costs and thus reduction in carbon footprint. The branded stand can be re-used
for every season.
Founder Belinda David-Tooze says: “We are looking to lead the way by encouraging other
exhibitors to consider their carbon footprint when attending trade shows too. We have done
our homework and feel that the purchase of these ‘green’ display units means that Envirosax has
taken one of the fi rst, and biggest steps towards making our booths as eco-friendly as can be. I
hope that other exhibitors will want to follow suit.”
Visit the new UK website at www.envirosax.com/uk for further information.
6 giftfocus
Annual enamel
boxes take fl ight
Bilston and Battersea Enamels’ new 2010
collection offers traditional and contemporary
designs. The company continues to work with
world famous licences, Classic Pooh, Beatrix
Potter, Disney and Jim Shore, the artist behind
the world-renowned Heartwood Creek
collection by Enesco.
For January 2010 two new annual boxes
are available featuring a colourful butterfl y and
dragonfl y. The new collection not only offers
enamel boxes, but also bangles and cuffl inks, in
a variety of widths and designs.
The company also offers a corporate service
for special market commissions.
For further details contact either Angela
Metcalfe +44 (0)1228 404 047 or email UK
customer services uksales@enesco.co.uk.
New line for Cavania
Cavania London introduces a further extension
to its gift offering with traditional hand-carved
wooden horses.
The hand-carved horses hark back to a
bygone era and are available both in a limewash
and white fi nish.
Available in two sizes with stands there is
also a beautiful rocking horse version.
These and more gift and card launches from
Cavania are being presented for the fi rst time
during the spring trade shows. Visit the website
www.cavania.com or call +44 (0)1895 824 899
for further details.

ReVampt to launch
new patchwork
collection
Handmade accessories and furnishings
company ReVampt is launching a new
collection of patchwork items.
The launch coincides with the Victoria
& Albert museum’s “Quilts 1700-2010”
exhibition which opens on 20 th March
2010. Where ReVampt owner and
designer Sarah Baulch will be running a
two-day patchwork quilt workshop and
re-working textile workshop.
The ReVampt Patchwork Collection
launches this February with a selection
of items made from contemporary and
vintage reclaimed fabrics – mainly denim
off-cuts previously destined for landfi ll.
The fabrics are sourced personally
by Sarah from the fashion and textile
industry, from high street brands to
retired dressmakers.
Each item in the collection is unique
and features some of Sarah’s personal
vintage fabrics, including an antique
tablecloth hand embroidered by her own grandmother and an antique christening gown.
The collection contains a range of patchwork items including throws, cushions, cot quilts,
doorstops, bags, recovered chairs and stools, footstools, table runners and matching mats and
even a peg bag.
Visit the website www.revampit.co.uk or for further information call +44 (0)208 354 7354
Totseat Founder wins Red’s Hot
Women Award
Totseat inventor Rachel Jones, has been honoured as one of Britain’s most inspiring working
women, winning the International Category in Red Magazine’s Hot Women Awards.
Judged by prime minister’s wife Sarah Brown and other senior business leaders, the award
recognised Totseat’s development from the kitchen table to an international brand in less
than fi ve years. The excitement adds to a great year for Totseat, which has seen 140 per cent
growth and a coveted Gift of the Year Award.
In 2004, Rachel launched Totseat, the fabric highchair, which fi ts chairs and babies of all
shapes and sizes. Anchoring a baby in an adult chair, Totseat creates an alternative highchair
when none is available. The business has gone from strength to strength and the Totseat now
sells in 29 countries.
Rachel collected her award at a glittering awards ceremony attended by celebrity guests
and female business leaders, and is pictured celebrating with Jools Oliver, wife of celebrity
chef Jamie Oliver.
Visit the website www.totseat.com for more information.
Cake Designs unveil
new additions
Building on the success of its “WISH... original”
Union Jack door & bumper stop range, Cake
Designs is launching three new additions to the
growing family.
Cake will showcase its new tartan Dog &
Puppy door and bumper stops and a new
chocolate brown felt dog and puppy; at Spring
Fair International 2010.
Cake Designs UK Limited is a leading
manufacturer and supplier of design-led gifts in
leather and fabric for the home and garden. The
company also specialises in client own-designs and
exclusive ranges.
Cake’s product portfolio is branded under the
WISH ... original name.
To view the complete range visit Hall 4, Stand
D52 at Spring Fair International 2010, 7 th – 11 th
February at Birmingham’s NEC or visit the
website www.cakeuk.com.
giftfocus 7
news&events

industry news
The White Company leads the way
Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company, has received the coveted everywoman Ambassador
Award sponsored by Coutts & Co for inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.
Rucker, 40, came up with the concept for The White Company in 1994 when she struggled to
find beautifully designed home accessories in her favourite colour - white. She created a 12-page
catalogue from her spare room, delivering it to friends and family in the early days.
Originally a mail order business, The White Company was one of the early success stories of the
internet with its strong online presence. It has continued to expand and today is one of the most
successful multi-channel retailers in the premium market.
Chrissie is an inspirational businesswoman and mother of four who has successfully combined growing her business with a family.
New Ecoist Coca-Cola bags
Ecoist, the company behind the original sweet wrapper handbags,
has renewed its collection of handbags made from overrun and
discontinued bottle labels from Coca-Cola beverage brands.
The limited edition collection features designs made from Diet
Coke®, Coke Zero® and Diet Cherry Coke® labels. The new
Ecoist Coca-Cola handbags feature branded Coca-Cola prints as
well as abstract patterns in various handbag shapes.
Since its launch in 2007, the Ecoist Coca-Cola partnership has
prevented more than 1 million Coca-Cola labels from entering
North American landfills, helping Coca-Cola get one step closer to
its goal of zero waste production. In addition, the partnership has
resulted in over 5,000 trees being planted through the “Buy a Bag,
Plant a Tree” programme, a commitment to plant a tree for every
bag sold.
Visit the website www.ecoist.com to find out more.
For Every Body appoints new distributors
For Every Body the quality soy based candle brand has continued its expansion in the
home fragrance sector by appointing new distributors in Europe.
From 1 st January 2010 Dublin based “Shop Smart” became the distributor for the
whole of Ireland giving better service to Irish customers as stock will be carried in
Ireland. They will also be appointing a new agent for Northern Ireland, pricing will be the
same as if customers bought from England and there will be no price increases with For
Every Body absorbing VAT changes.
“Solush” has also been appointed to represent For Every Body in Denmark
completing the picture of full distribution in Scandinavia.
For Every Body is in negotiations with various European distributors for 2010 but still
has opportunities in a number of export countries. For details call managing director
Paul Travis, +44 (0)1952 457 409 or email paultravis@foreverybody.info.
8 giftfocus
Villeroy &
Boch launch
new Cottage
and Green
Garland
Villeroy & Boch has introduced
new modern country
collections including New
Cottage and New Cottage
Green Garland.
Inspired by nature, the
ranges offer fine china
tableware in elegant shapes
with light and fresh patterns.
Designed by Robin Levien, the specialist British ceramic designer, the
contemporary New Cottage range is a fluid design in solid white
balanced with flowing leaf-inspired shapes. The neutral pattern is the
ideal accompaniment to the embellished New Cottage Green Garland
collection blending plain white with a decorative coloured design.
The spring palette of New Cottage Green Garland features delicate
leaves, elderflowers and cherry blossom in shades of greens, yellows and
pinks. The classic circular shaped collection is available as a full dinner
service and also works well as individual accent pieces.
Call +44 (0)208 875 6060 or visit the website www.villeroy-boch.com
for details.

on with the show
All the important dates and venues for your buying diary
Support for Aviemore Trade Show
Art, craft and giftware businesses are demonstrating their support for the annual Aviemore Trade Show, scheduled for 25 th -27 th April 2010.
To date, six new businesses have signed-up to launch at the event, together with existing businesses who will be ‘first-timers’ alongside many
Aviemore ‘regulars’.
Organiser, Gail Steele reports: “There’s a quiet confidence in the air, makers seem to be riding the storm of the recession - orders are there,
although admittedly not in the pre-recession quantities, but nevertheless business is still happening, exhibitors know that attending Aviemore will
enhance their opportunities, and give them an effective route to market.”
The show strongly promotes ‘brand’ Scotland, by only allowing items of Scottish origin, with every exhibitor committing to this guarantee.
It is the fourth Aviemore Trade Show to be located in the Osprey Arena of the MacDonald Aviemore Highland Resort.
For further information visit the website www.aviemoretradeshow.co.uk.
diary dates
Christmasworld
when 29 th Jan-2 nd Feb 2010
where Frankfurt, Germany
website www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com
Paperworld
when 30 th Jan-2 nd Feb 2010
where Frankfurt, Germany
website www.paperworld.messefrankfurt.com
New York International Gift Fair
when 30 th Jan-4 th Feb 2010
where New York
website www.nyigf.com
We all know there is going to be
an upturn, indeed some can already
feel the beginnings of it
Tendence returns to traditional August timing
International home and gift fair Tendence is returning to its former
time slot at the end of August.
The move follows feedback from visitors and exhibitors after the
show was held in early July the past two years.
Around two thirds of exhibitors and visitors polled favoured a
return to the traditional early autumn dates.
As a result Tendence 2010 will be held in Frankfurt am Main,
Germany, from Friday 27 th to Tuesday 31 st August.
Tendence presents the latest trends for the coming winter
season and provides an outlook over the trends for the spring and
summer of the following year.
For further information visit www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com.
10 giftfocus
New show to be launched
Leading exhibition organiser, easyFairs has unveiled plans
for easyFairs ® RETAIL 2010, a brand new show focused
specifically on shopfittings, display systems, technology and
visual merchandising.
EasyFairs RETAIL, due to take place on 5 th & 6 th May 2010 at
London’s ExCeL, is designed to appeal to and attract leading
retailers, shopfitting controllers, visual merchandisers and
designers seeking innovative solutions.
The show is co-located with easyFairs ® INTERIOR FIT-OUT 2010 – the UK’s only
event dedicated to commercial interior refurbishment, which recorded an 18 per cent
jump in visitor numbers this year. Both events will run alongside the popular Grand
Designs LIVE.
Managing director of easyFairs UK, Matt Benyon comments: “We all know there
is going to be an upturn, indeed some can already feel the beginnings of it. When it
comes retailers will be looking to revamp and refresh their stores. Our show is a
low-cost, no-risk way for all those involved in shopfitting and display to grasp that
sales opportunity.”
In addition to showcasing an array of exhibitors, easyFairs ® RETAIL 2010 will also
feature learnShop seminars and “Lions Lair” – a Dragons’ Den style contest where
exhibitors can put their new retail innovations to a panel of judges.
For further information contact Leyla Mulvihill, easyFairs Retail event manager on
+44 (0)208 622 4456 or email leyla.mulvihill@easyfairs.com.

Rebooking up for Glee 2010
Glee organisers have confirmed applications for exhibition space for
the 2010 show, which takes place from 20 th to 22 nd September at
Birmingham’s NEC, have been flooding in from exhibitors across core
garden, leisure and pet sectors.
The number of applications, and the amount of space requested,
exceeds those received during the same period last year.
Daniel Thurlow, Glee show director, said: “We are working with our
exhibitors to ensure that Glee 2010 is another strong event, and it’s
great to see that our initiatives to reward loyal exhibitors are being so
well received. With rebooking so strong this can only be a positive thing
for both suppliers and visiting buyers. We are also extremely pleased
by the response from both major and emerging brands, and we look
forward to building on this going forwards.”
For more information call +44 (0)1923 690 663 or visit the website
www.gleebirmingham.com.
Positive feedback from
Mega Shows
Despite difficult economic
trading conditions, Kenfair
organiser of the Mega
Shows in Hong Kong,
has reported strong
attendance at both shows
and positive response from
the exhibitors.
Held from October
20 th -23 rd 2009, Mega
Show Part 1featured
3,762 exhibitors from 31
countries, including over
900 companies that were
new to the show.
Reflecting the consumer spending slowdown in established markets, the number of buyers
from Europe and the USA was slightly down over the previous year.
However, over 50,114 industry professionals attended from 135 countries and regions, many
on consecutive daily visits, an improvement in international attendance over the April 2009
sourcing trade shows.
The show, which takes place every October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition
Centre, is the major annual trade exhibition for gifts, housewares, premiums and toys.
Mega Show Part 2 follows afterwards at the end of October featuring gifts, décor and home
and new for 2009 - office and stationery.
The new sector showcased the best of Asian pen, print, paper and office stationery supplies,
bringing together 70 companies under one roof.
In total the show presented 712 exhibitors from 12 countries and attracted 16,557 visitors
from 116 countries.
The 2010 Mega Shows are being held from 20 th -23 rd and 28 th -30 th October respectively.
For further information visit the website www.mega-show.com.
Everything new only a click away
More clearly laid out, informative and
modern, Ambiente’s completely redesigned
internet presentation brings the world’s
biggest consumer-goods fair more to life
than ever before.
Now, exhibitors, visitors and journalists
can see, hear and interact concurrently,
as well as call up all the information they
need about the fair, events and the latest
trends on the internet at www.ambiente.
messefrankfurt.com.
“Besides actually exhibiting at or
attending the fair in February, the website
gives users the chance to benefit from
Ambiente continuously and to gather
in-depth information about the event. In
this way, we turn Ambiente into a tool
that can be used the whole year round”,
explains Nicolette Naumann, Ambiente
vice president.
Visitors benefit from a variety of tools
designed to help them prepare for the
fair, such as an interactive hall plan,
exhibitor and product search engine,
online ticket sales, mobile services,
information about travelling to and staying
in Frankfurt, and details of things to do and
sights to see in and around the city. For
exhibitors, the website offers numerous
services for planning and implementing a
trade-fair presentation.
giftfocus 11
news&events

on with the show
looking ahead
Intergift
when 4 th -8 th February 2010
where Madrid, Spain
website www.ifema.es
Toy Fair
when 4 th -9 th February 2010
where Nürnberg, Germany
website www.toyfair.de
Formland Spring
when 5 th -8 th February 2010
where Herning, Denmark
website www.formland.com
Spring Fair International
when 7 th -11 th February 2010
where NEC, Birmingham
website www.springfair.com
Ambiente
when 12 th -16 th February 2010
where Frankfurt, Germany
website www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com
Pure London
when 14 th -16 th February 2010
where Olympia, London
website www.purelondon.com
(Please note: All dates are subject to change, contact
organisers for more information before making
arrangements.)
For further in-depth show previews turn to
Page 38 Christmasworld
Page 66 Ambiente
Page 75 Spring Fair International
Page 169 London Asia Expo
12 giftfocus
Indian handicrafts & gifts
The 29 th Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair, organised by the Export Promotion Council
for Handicrafts (EPCH) takes place at the plush India Expo Centre, located in the
National Capital Region (New Delhi) from 20 th –23 rd February 2010.
The show continues to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to offering the
industry’s widest variety of new resources in one easy-to-navigate location. Creativity
and the ability to present innovative collections, updated season after season, are
strong points of the manufacturers who unite under its banner, twice every year, for
spring and autumn seasons. This strength attracts international buyers looking for
products to distinguish their collections.
The wide-ranging product profile includes house ware, gifts, decorative, furnishings,
floor coverings, furniture, lighting, fashion jewellery and accessories, festive décor and
antique reproductions and more.
The 28 th edition of the IHGF held from 10 th to 13 th October 2009, attracted 2,200
exhibitors, buyers from several countries, other trade visitors and dignitaries and
thousands of creative products and utility items, displayed across an area of 80,000
sq. metres.
For more information visit the website www.epch.com.
PG Live set for second strong year
The second Progressive Greetings
LIVE, the UK trade show dedicated to
greeting cards, takes place on May 25 th
and 26 th 2010 at the Business Design
Centre, Islington, London and is already
expanding its initial concept to take
in feedback.
The show’s venue, May timing
and essential ingredients, including
hospitality for all at the show, will
remain in place. However, for 2010
the show has been expanded on two
key fronts; more opportunities for
taking part for new and emerging card
publishers as well as more facilities for
overseas buyers.
PG LIVE aims to establish itself as the show for new talent and emerging publishers,
hence the launch of ‘Springboard@PG LIVE’, a new area of the show introduced
for 2010. This area offers smaller stands, effectively lowering entry costs for new
companies, but still providing access to all the key buyers.
This initiative means the show is currently on target to offer visitors the
opportunity to see well over 200 card publishers, including the world’s largest;
Hallmark, right down to the very freshest start up!
In 2009 the show played host to buyers from 31 different countries, with the
largest contingents from Australia, The Netherlands and Sweden. For 2010, in
response to direct requests, the show will host a special reception on the evening
before the show opens for all overseas buyers, and offer them free meeting facilities
at the venue on set up day.
“We think this show can act as a world hub for the greeting industry hence our
strapline this year ‘The London International Card Show’,” says co-show director
Warren Lomax. “UK publishers lead the world in terms of design, so PG LIVE is the
perfect place for the overseas industry to meet their peers and their suppliers.”
Visit the website www.progressivegreetingslive.com to find out more.

We showcase just some of the recent innovations and hot new lines to hit the market
brand spanking new
Bananagrams
Product: Appletters
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)208 876 3013 or email
infouk@bananagrams-intl.com
Price: RRP £15.99
Specifi cation: From the creators of the award-winning Bananagrams®,
Appletters is a domino-like game for ages six and up where
players connect letters in lieu of dots. The game comes
in an apple-shaped cloth pouch containing 110 tiles.
Retailer Benefi ts: The game continues the company’s tradition of using no external packaging and the product is very tactile.
Other Information: In addition to the version for a younger audience, the game also includes instructions for more adult play - APPLE TURNOVER for
an extra challenge and APPLESCORE for word lovers who like to keep score.
Workman Publishing
14 giftfocus
Juicy Lucy Designs
Product: Juicy Lucy pocket collection
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)7968 825 263 or email mel@juicylucydesigns.co.uk
Price: Prices start from £1.99 to £3.99
Specifi cation: Wonderful girlie gifts including fairy tattoos, keyrings, pocket mirrors and
necklaces, mobile charms and badges.
Retailer Benefi ts: Filled with love, joy and happiness these goodies are guaranteed to make any
girl feel gorgeous.
Other Information: Visit the website www.juicylucydesigns.com
Product: Don’t Forget to Sing in the Lifeboats
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1483 869 839 or visit www.melia.co.uk
Price: RRP £7.99 (Hardback)
Specifi cation: An inspirational collection of reassuring quotes from people who have experienced life’s
hardships but never lost their sense of humour.
Retailer Benefi ts: By brother and sister Ross & Kathryn Petras, authors of the bestselling Age Doesn’t Matter
Unless You’re a Cheese.
Other Information: Quotes included from people like Muhammad Ali, Oscar Wilde, Nelson Mandela and J K
Rowling to name a few.
Enesco
Product: Magnetic condiment sets
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1228 40 022 or email uksales@enesco.co.uk
Price: RRP £14 a set.
Specifi cation: Six new additions to Enesco’s expansive salt and pepper sets
including Love Birds and Hearts, Piglets and Teddies. Pictured are
the Russian Matryoshka Doll, in traditional peasant’s costume; and
Japanese Kokeshi Doll in elegant kimono.
Retailer Benefi ts: Wide ranging appeal with gift givers and collectors alike.
Other Information: The main appeal of the salt and pepper sets is that they are both
decorative and functional, not to mention fun.

Funky Feet Fashions
Product: Super Zeros
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1743 719 270 or email mark@funkyfeetfashions.co.uk
Price: RRP £24.99
Specification: Ze Super Zeros are six hero friends whose ‘zuper powers’ and problems blend together.
Designed in France, the six courageous friends each have a special super-power... and a
super-challenge, offering a fun way to help children understand their own unique qualities
and differences.
Retailer Benefits: Suitable for ages from birth and up, each Super Zero has its own removable cape that
can also be used as a comforter and a small pouch that children can use to hide their own little treasures.There is a colourful free
standing shop display unit available that shows off all six characters and holds stock.
Other Information: Supported by animated consumer website, visit www.ze-superzeros.com to meet all of the characters and see them act out their
super powers.
Brainstorm Limited
Rainbow Designs
Product: Once Upon a Time nursery collection
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)870 758 7700 or email sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk
Price: From £5.99 to £34.99
Specification: The new collection features two of Beatrix Potter’s best-loved characters Peter Rabbit
and Jemima Puddle-duck.The soft, tactile and traditional gift range features plush ‘My
First’ characters, comfort toys, classic gifts including a musical mobile and chime ball as
well as ring rattles and bean rattles.
Retailer Benefits: Every product features exceptional attention to detail including embroidery and satin
feel fabric.
Other Information: Retailers can create the complete Once Upon a Time story with Rainbow’s Beatrix
Potter baby books and boxed story books in addition to Peter Rabbit stacking blocks.
Product: Night n Day Globe
Contact: Telephone Nick Saunders on +44 (0)1200 445 113
Price: RRP £99.99
Specification: The real solar time rotating globe is easy to set up. Align the globe to the correct latitude
for your location and set the date and time.The 28cm globe rotates daily at the same
speed as the earth.The clever real time illumination system only lights up daylight zones at
any particular time and has a twilight zone effect.
Retailer Benefits: As well as a real talking point for any home, it also makes a stunning night light and
useful clock. Includes an informative 20-page booklet about time and the earth.
Other Information: The globe is angled correctly in relation to the sun, demonstrating the seasonal pattern of
daylight on different regions of the earth.
BTDesign
Product: PiZZa Ball
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)797 624 9753 or email: emailBTDesign@aol.com
Price: £15.99 RRP
Specification: Brand new for 2010 PiZZa Ball is a stainless steel sphere specially designed to easily
create a perfect home made pizza, without the tricky bits.
Retailer Benefits: Unique, patented UK design it comes with with base and instructions (including recipe).
Great for youngsters developing hand eye co-ordination.
Other Information: BTDesign and PiZZa Ball have both been designed and developed by 18-year-old Dan
Bailey-Taylor. Visit the website www.pizzaball.co.uk to find out more.
giftfocus 15
news & events

and spanking new
Menu
16 giftfocus
Envirosax®
Product Minisax
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1792 797 968 or email uk@envirosax.com
Price: RRP £3
Specifi cation: Made from 45% recycled materials, the new Minisax, is half the size of the
original Envirosax eco bags, making them ideal for a water bottle and lunch
to take to work or school for the eco-conscious family.
Retailer Benefi ts: Available in three fashionable designs.
Other Information: The company pioneered the designer reusable bag and is also introducing
the Slingsax, messenger-bag shape and a new range of designer reusable
drinking bottles.
Product: Lighthouse Balls
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)7834 767 211 or email katherine@in2homeltd.co.uk
Price: RRP £59.95
Specifi cation: Round outdoor light balls which burn with a fascinating fl ame, creating a special
atmosphere. The ball itself is made of porcelain and available in black or white, it is frost
proof so can be left out in all weathers. It has a large removable oil reservoir in
weatherproof stainless steel and plastic that is easy to fi ll.
Retailer Benefi ts: The lamp burns steadily with a thick fi breglass wick, which is not easily extinguished in
windy conditions.
Other Information: The balls burn like small fi res in the dark and are a welcome new addition to the Light
House range designed by Christian Bjørn
That Company Called If
Source Innovations
Product: Potting Shed Pals
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1270 873300 or email info@pottingshedpals.co.uk
Price: RRP £15.00
Specifi cation: Potting Shed Pals are a range of collectable characters portraying the many
personalities and attributes of life. The range has fi rst been launched with
the village format of Moreton-in-the-Mulch but will extend out to urban
and coastal.
Retailer Benefi ts: Each character comes in its own presentation box, which includes a leafl et
detailing information about the village and its range of characters.
Other Information: Customers have the option to register for a free quarterly newsletter, which
will provide more details about each character along with the usual village
gossip! Visit the website www.pottingshedpals.com to fi nd out more.
Product: Day You Were Born Keyrings
Contact: Telephone +44 (0)1751 475 757 or email sarah@
thatcompanycalledif.com
Price: RRP £1.99
Specifi cation: Ever wondered what happened on the day you were born? Now
you can fi nd out with Day You Were Born Keyrings – a gift and
memento of the events which make each individual birthday special.
Retailer Benefi ts: All starter pack orders include three keyrings per 366 dates, free
colour-coded display spinner and ‘Day You Were Born’ header card.
Other Information: Each keyring has its own illustrated double-sided history of events.

As the new decade gets underway, now is the
ideal time for an insurance health check to help
get on track for a successful business future.
With hopes high for a start to economic
recovery this year, it couldn’t be more vital to
get in shape and gear up for when the upturn
does eventually kick in.
T.H. March, leading insurance brokers to the
giftware and jewellery trade, will be running
dedicated clinics offering free insurance
health checks from Stand R41 in Hall 17 at
Birmingham’s NEC, for the duration of this
year’s Spring Fair.
The walk-in clinics will allow exhibitors and
visitors the opportunity to have a one-to-one
consultation with T.H. March insurance experts,
including account executive Simon Dawe, who
liaises with the Giftware Association. To
pre-book an appointment call Simon on
+44 (0)121 236 9433.
The clinics will provide an opportunity
to speak to experts about which insurance
policies works best for you and your business.
Not only experts in commercial insurance, the
on-stand clinics will also offer the opportunity
to discuss personal policies including motor,
24 giftfocus
check in for insurance
health check
As the industry gears up for the biggest giftware and jewellery exhibition of
the year, Spring Fair International 2010, T.H. March & Co. Limited is pleased
to announce a new initiative it will be offering throughout the fair.
home and jewellery insurance. T.H. March
prides itself on its heritage, established
as insurance brokers for over 100 years.
The company is a family owned and run
business and is appointed brokers to The
National Association of Goldsmiths (NAG),
British Jewellers Association (BJA), National
Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) as well as the
appointed brokers to the Giftware Association
(GA) which is the UK’s leading trade
association for the gift and home industries.
With all the important pre-show
preparation for Spring Fair, it’s important now
for businesses to make sure they have the right
insurance cover in place.
Here T.H. March sales and marketing
director Neil McFarlane, offers a few important
considerations to bear in mind when attending
the show.
Stock and trade stands and fixtures and fittings
Does your policy extend to cover attendance
at trade exhibitions? If so, is the extension
sufficient to cover the values at risk?
Commercial policies are traditionally subject
to an under insurance condition which means
that if you insure for 50 per cent of the value
taken to the exhibition any claim will be
reduced by 50 per cent.
Public liability
Have you notified your insurers that you
regularly attend trade exhibitions, as there
may be an exclusion within your policy? Also, a
number of exhibition event organisers demand
a minimum level of cover of £5,000,000.
Whilst this can be purchased separately
it is often cheaper to increase the limit
under the annual cover rather than take out
small extensions to cover the two or three
exhibitions attended.
Loss of profits
Does your policy provide cover for loss of
profits arising from problems at the event?
Most policies will not and do require specific
extension. This cover is not widely available
but some insurers will give cover. For example
a fire on your stand causing damage to
property which leads to a loss of profit arising
from the event can be insured. Again - you will
of course need to have told your insurers that
you are attending events. 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 www.thmarch.co.uk

EcoFriendlyBagsLtd
Raise consumer awareness in an
environmentally responsible format
Eco Friendly Bags specialise in
marketing awareness tools for
companies and retail outlets. The
primary marketing vehicle is reusable
environmentally friendly carry bags.
Eco Friendly Bags source and supply
environmentally friendly bags with a
difference. Each product has added
value features and benefi ts: Folds to
pocket size, opens out to shopping bag
size, made from recycled spun bound
biodegradable polypropylene, strong
and durable. Eco Friendly Bags are
washable, air permeable, liquid repellent
and much more.
Spring Fair
Hall 6
Stand D21
Eco Friendly Bags will design, source
and supply bespoke products in
affordable quantities, whether for retail,
free gift or as a premium marketing tool.
Available in boxes of single units,
counter top display units or fl oor
standing display units. Quantities
packed to your criteria.
The example shown has been designed
and produced for retail outlets and
holiday accommodation in the medieval
tourist village of Lavenham in Suffolk.
Bags can be designed with long and
short handles, side pockets, business
card holders and much more.
Telephone: 01483 723124, Fax: 01483 755432, Email: info@ecofriendlybagsltd.co.uk
Registered company: 6914319
www.ecofriendlybagsltd.co.uk
Character Novelty Company
Caricature Printed Toilet Rolls
Over 20 designs
Gift Box Merchandised
Bespoke designs available
Visit the Character Novelty Company website
Visit us at Spring Fair Hall 6 Stand D21
www.characternovelty.co.uk
to see the full range of caricatures available.
For all enquiries email sales@characternovelty.co.uk
Tel: 01483 723124

nature’s bounty
More and more companies are tapping into natural
and sustainable resources to create great gifts for
greener giving.
Th e home and gift industry continues to grow
greener, with continued focus on off ering
natural and organic goods.
Despite the recession, many consumers
are staying loyal to the principle of sourcing
planet friendly products, oft en putting green
credentials above price.
However, that doesn’t mean compromising
on style or design. Th ere is increasing call for
natural and organic ranges that deliver on
both counts.
Transparency in communicating green
credentials is also key, as consumers become
increasingly savvy about the environment and
what goes into the products they buy.
We take a look at what companies have
to off er…
Beanpod from S.C.Johnson is a best-selling
fragranced ‘green’ candle range available in
the UK from Fraser Studios, who will be
introducing two new collections along with
reed diff users at this year’s Spring Fair.
Candlescapes feature sleekly designed,
encased pillar-style decorative candles with
lids that double as coasters with names to
match their fragrances, like Fireside Chat,
Cocktail Delight, Smiles and Laughs and
Summer Nights.
Th e new Escape Collection of gift boxed
6oz jar candles evokes the spa experience and
calming and tranquil blends.
Th ere are also new fragrances in the
Fraser Studios
Lotus Feet
original Classic Collection. Th e new, boxed
Beanpod reed diff users introduce top spring
fragrances in a non-fl ame form, as naturally
as the candles.
Derived from palm plants they are
environmentally friendly, porous and use
pure essential oil blends.
Each Beanpod candle uses natural soy
wax, which burns longer and cleaner, has
a natural cotton and lead-free wick and is
biodegradable.
Says managing director Colin Fraser: “Th e
big thing about ‘green’ and organic products is
that although we like the idea of buying them,
we are normally asked to pay a premium, so
people oft en have second thoughts at the last
minute. With Beanpod there is no premium.”
Telephone +44 (0)1592 774 540 or email
sales@fraserstudios.com for details.
Lotusfeet is a family business intent on
providing quality design led fashion
accessories with a social conscience.
Lotusfeet will be continuing and expanding
its work with cooperatives and small family
businesses in the Philippines for 2010.
Its popular Cascade Collection made of
sustainable coconut shell will continue to
grow with new designs and colours. Th e
company is also welcoming in the new year
with a collection ‘Ode to Nature’, using the
recycled, reused and the sustainable.
Discarded noodle packet wrappers are
BISC
turned into brightly beaded necklaces and
bangles. Other parts of the collection are
the result of a new collaboration using a
versatile material innovation, Naturecast®.
A sustainable alternative to wood, creating
pendants, beads and bracelets out of scrap
materials of dead bark, shrubs, fallen twigs,
leaves and other agro-forest waste.
Th e new collections are part of Lotusfeet’s
growing environmental commitments.
Says the company: “We support the ‘Go
Green’ project, a reforestation programme
to help ensure that in the future the raw
materials used in the jewellery industry of
the Philippines are sourced in a sustainable
manner. Th ese projects have also become
great livelihood opportunities for local
communities, ensuring a source of income.”
Visit the website www.lotusfeet.co.uk for
further information.
Babies in Sheep’s Clothing (BISC) sources
high quality ethically produced lambskin
and merino baby and childrenswear. All
products, including lambskin hats, lambskin
mittens, and jackets are handmade in rural
New Zealand and built to last. All materials
are ethically sourced and each piece is made
of natural fi bres. Th eir merino products
are made from sustainable merino, and the
natural coloured wool is eco-merino - about
as natural as you can get! Th e collection has
been produced with the environment and the
future in mind.
Visit www.babiesinsheepsclothing.com or
call +44 (0)207 720 9159 to fi nd out more.
giftfocus 27
green gifts

most wanted
Organic cotton ‘Free Range’ and ‘Rare
Breed’ playsuits and ‘Give Peas a Chance’
T-shirt are just a few of the organic and
fair trade gifts available from pioneering
Little Green Radicals.
All products from Little Green
Radicals are sweatshop free as well as
pesticide, formaldehyde, chlorine and
Azo free. The stock ranges from infant to
six years and is made with eco- friendly
dyes and inks.
Visit the website www.littlegreen
radicals.co.uk for further details.
28 giftfocus
for baby
Spring Fair 2010 sees the launch of Natures
Purest Pure Love range. Created from soft
organic cotton and luxurious pure silk, Pure
Love is the ultimate organic baby gift collection.
Natures Purest specialises in organic baby
products and the range of 45 pieces includes
fabulous packaging. All items are beautifully
presented in manilla keepsake boxes made
from recycled card with heart detail and
fi nished with a decorative gift tag. The Pure
Love collection includes; gift sets for every
occasion, babies’ fi rst toys, clothing sets, soft
shoes and a range of co-ordinated bedding
including blankets, cushions and towels.
Call +44 (0)116 279 2901 or send an email
to tracey@naturespurest.co.uk for details.
Organic and ethically produced children’s
clothing company Animal Tails has been leading
the way in its quest to produce beautiful clothes
with an important educational message. Their
recently launched new range features some of
the world’s most endangered species including
the Polar Bear and the Snow Leopard.
The Animal Tails collection serves to educate
young people on the dangers facing these
animals. With each item of clothing comes
a story label written to the child from the
perspective of the animal featured, including
fun and amazing facts, why it is endangered and
what young people can do to help.
The collection is UK Soil Association certifi ed
under the Global Organic Textile Standard
(GOTS), which assures that the garments are,
not only organic, including all the dying process
and silk screen inks used, but also ethically
manufactured.
Visit the website www.animaltails.co.uk for
more information.
New for 2010, Babyblooms’ range of baby clothing bouquets includes a fabulous bouquet
comprising fl owers formed from bamboo baby garments and delicate leaf skeletons.
Bamboo is highly absorbent, naturally anti-bacterial and hypo-allergenic – perfect for baby’s
delicate skin. Great for the environment too! Bamboo is a renewable and sustainable resource
and is organic, grown without pesticides, fertilizers or chemicals and it’s 100% biodegradable!
The bouquets are double boxed, a presentation box inside an outer post-ready box, making
them ideal for both displaying and delivering. For details call +44 (0)1454 272 474.

for bath and body
For Every Body offers the U.S. brand leading
soy based candle collection at prices that are
competitive with leading paraffi n based brands,
so being clean and green does not have to be
more expensive.
“Organic Living” proved to be the winning
collection from For Ever Body in 2009, a
collection of two 18oz jars in 10 distinctive
fragrances with over 200hr burn times. There
will be new fragrances in this collection
including evocative “Coconut Lime” and
“Cucumber & Melon”.
For Every Body has also entered the
natural bath and body sector with a range
of UK manufactured products based around
its “Aroma Therapy” collection of soy based
candles. All products are SLS and paraben
free, fragrances include “Aloe & Seaweed” and
“Lavender & Herb”.
Visit the website www.foreverybody.biz or
call +44 (0)1952 457 408 for further details.
Following on from the escalating success of British formulated natural
skincare products from Natural Empathy, comes a
brand new, luxurious limited edition hand and body
lotion, which combines a distinctive blend of the
traditional and the modern, celebrating pride and
passion for Britain.
The rich lotion has a fi ne, nostalgic fragrance
and comes with unique Union Jack packaging.
The lotion is enriched with organic
essential oils including cedarwood, lavender
and patchouli. The paraben free, cruelty free,
synthetic free, natural beauty product is made
lovingly in small batches and is suitable for even
sensitive skin.
The Natural Empathy range is produced by
the Stuckey family who live in Northumberland
close to the Yellow Fields farm where the main
and key ingredient, rapeseed oil, is grown and
pressed for the products.
This limited edition product was personally
created and formulated by 22-year-old
Madelaine Stuckey.
For further information visit the website
www.naturalempathy.com or email philip@
naturalempathy.com.
To be pure and natural is the
benchmark Bath House has set for
its new ‘Naturally Good’ collection.
Fragranced with refreshing notes
of amber and sweet orange, and
with 97% average natural ingredient
content throughout the range, it’s a
collection packed with skin-friendly
natural extracts that lets nature do
what it does best; soothe, restore
and nourish.
“Bath House is always
complemented for its packaging,” says
director Pauline Marshall, “but it’s
what is inside the bottle that really
motivates us, so doing a naturals
range meant it had to be just that, as
completely natural and honest as we
could make it.”
Find out more from the website
www.thebathhouseshop.co.uk.
giftfocus 29
green gifts

most wanted
for the home
Shared Earth offers home accessories made from
natural materials including beautiful oil burners made
from Gorara stone, an Indian soapstone, which are
completely hand-carved by the master craftsmen of
the Agra bazaar, using traditional skills passed down
through generations of artisans.
Intricately-detailed boxes hand-carved from
sustainable Shesham wood from Indian governmentmanaged
forests, are part of the company’s spring
2010 home accessories range. The ‘secret lock box’
has a sliding strip of wood, which locks the box and is
hard to detect.
The Shesham wood handicrafts are made in
Saharanpur, a small town about 100 miles north of
Delhi. Visit the website www.sharedearth.co.uk.
30 giftfocus
Bring the outdoors in this spring
with Paddywax’s new home
fragrance collection – Garden
Crush. The range features six
beautiful fl oral scents – Jasmine,
Dandelion, Sweet Pea, Geranium,
Peony and Poppy – in blossom
inspired packaging.
It’s not only the sumptuous
fragrances and original design that
make this collection a winning
choice. Paddywax plays an active
role in conserving the earth’s
resources and pledges to create
candles that are fragrant, long
burning and eye catching. The
collection is the perfect choice for
people who want to go green in
style this spring!
Visit www.beautyconnection
limited.com to fi nd out more.
Taking part in the Spring Fair for
the fi rst time this year, organic
homewares brand Ochre & Ocre
will be launching its new organic
cotton print range, designed
exclusively in the UK by the textile
designer Lindsey Joyce. The fresh
new designs are reminiscent of
Lucienne Day’s 1950’s patterns.
The range will include adult and
kids aprons, ovengloves, gauntlets,
as well as a kitchen tablecloth
and napkins. They also have their
luxurious Chateau collection of
table linen and kitchen textiles in
rich Ochre Colours. Ochre & Ocre
offers extra attention to detail with
neatly mitred corners, generously
sized aprons with handy pockets
and all in soft organic cotton. All the
textiles are woven and made in Europe, and certifi ed to Oekotex 100 standards.
For further information email tess@ochreandocre.com or visit the website
www.ochreandocre.com.

choosing a website designer
Five essential things to know so you get it right
first time
Everyone seems to know a website designer
but how do you know it they are right to
develop your website particularly if you are
going to sell online? I have seen retailers
spend many thousands of pounds on below
standard websites that will always struggle to
produce a payback on the time and money
put into them. So, here are some essential
points to consider, to help you make the
right choice first time.
1. Find the right team
There are several essential roles in website
design. Understanding these will help you find
a good company. If web design is new to you,
it can help to think of it like a car. Here is what
to look for:
Firstly you have the marketer. This person
will want to understand who the target market
is. With this in mind they will pull together
a design brief to make the car a perfect fit
for the type of people who will buy it. How
should it look? How fast should it go? How
firm should the ride be? This design brief will
be focussed around the desires of the target
market.
Secondly you have the bodywork designers
who will have an education in art. They will
design the look based on the brief from the
marketer. If this is done well, the end result
will appeal to the target market whether it is
a spacious people carrier, funky beetle or a
sporty Ferrari.
Third you have the engineers. They design
the engine and the chassis and give the car its
handling and performance. Engineers have
32 giftfocus
Part 1
Are you looking to start a new website or refresh your online offering in
2010? If so one of the most common questions is; “How do I select the
right website design company?” and “where do I start?” Expert David
Mackley advises…
If the shopping engine
is old and clunky it will
significantly impact on how
many sales you make.
analytical minds, a technical education and
are good at problem solving. If the engineers
do their jobs correctly, the car will be a
pleasure to drive.
Each role in this team requires a different
type of person. Any weaknesses or gaps in
the team will produce a weaker end product.
When you have a website developed, the same
three roles are essential. Here’s why:
The first stage of a website design should
start with a discussion with the marketer.
They should be asking questions to really
understand what your website should look
like and what its objectives are. For example:
“Who are you planning to sell to?”, “What
brand values do you want to portray?” The
marketer will then create a design brief to
make your website fit the market you are
selling to, just like they would with a car.
The second stage is with the arty designers.
They will create a flat design, i.e. a picture of
your website. You will get to review this and
should feel comfortable to go back with any
changes required.
The third stage is with the engineers. They
will cut your website design out from the
flat image and engineer it into a shopping
engine. The shopping engine is the bit that
creates your shopping basket when you add a
new item and it’s the payment and checkout
facility. It’s the bit that will notify you when
you get a sale. Most web design companies
have their own favourite shopping engine or
they will have created their own.
So the engineers will take your flat design
and turn it into an eCommerce website by
implementing it into the shopping engine.
TIP: Establish who the person is for each of
these roles and find out how you interact with
them during the design.
TIP: Get three reference sites and talk to
them. Key questions: Who was involved in
your website design? How efficient was the
design process? What is the percentage of
visitors against purchases (conversion rate)?
Would you recommend this company?
2. Make sure you are happy with the
shopping engine that will be used
It’s essential you are happy with the shopping
engine the company uses because there will
usually be limitations on how much it can
be changed. Having said that, anything can
be done with enough money, but changing a
shopping engine is a costly business!
If the shopping engine is old and clunky
it will significantly impact on how many
sales you make. The worldwide average for
converting online browsers to buyers is just
over two per cent (this does differ between
markets). An older shopping engine can move

There are several essential roles in
website design. Understanding these will
help you find a good company.
this down to one per cent, which means cutting your revenue by more
than half.
TIP: If you want value for money you’d be better off finding something
close to your requirements out of the box. Developing shopping engines
is an expensive business. Have a look at other websites the company
has developed and buy something. Try comparing the experience to
one or two of the large successful sites like Marks and Spencer who
recently moved to first place in offering the best user experience of UK
high street retailers (according to research from usability company
Webcredible). This research showed their updated site scored 83 per
cent for usability, an increase of 15 per cent from the previous test.
This is now joint first with WH Smith who kept the same score as last
year. John Lewis came in third. These sites are not perfect, but can act
as a good benchmark. (Note: The criteria used to evaluate the websites
takes into account the complete ecommerce experience, including
browsing and navigation, the checkout process, searching and product
display pages.)
TIP: Check that the shopping engine will be updated and if charges
will apply. Best practice in online shopping is changing all the time.
There is nothing worse than having a lovely website created only for the
shopping engine to be out of date in 12 months. g
David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of Intelligent Retail – providers
of Multichannel EPoS and eCommerce websites for independent
retailers. If you have any questions you can contact David on 0845
6800126 or dmackley@intelligentretail.co.uk

��
make mum’s day
In the UK Mother’s Day falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent,
which this year is on March 14 th . Even in a recession most
people don’t begrudge their mums a treat and are willing
to splash out.
Mother’s Day is big business on the high
street with almost 29 million Mother’s Day
cards sent last year alone, collectively worth a
whopping £67.7 million.
It’s a major gift -giving occasion too and
increasingly people are looking for more than
the traditional chocolates and fl owers.
Th ere’s plenty of scope for retailers to cash
in across all sectors from sentiment driven
lines to jewellery and luxury me time treats.
We showcase just some of what’s on off er to
make mum’s day.
��
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��
Ancient Wisdom
Leading gift wholesaler Ancient Wisdom has
a wide range of gift s perfect for mums.
Th eir pretty towel gift s are great as a sweet
treat with none of the calories. Almost good
enough to eat they are actually cotton hand
towels, gift wrapped with original details.
Ranges include strawberry cheesecakes,
irresistible Swiss rolls, ice cream sundaes
and fruitcakes.
Th e towels are a real draw for any shop and
will brighten up any display.
To fi nd out more visit the website
www.ancientwisdom.biz.
Bath House
��
��
“Mother’s Day is always an important date in
our calendar, not least because of the trouble
I get in if I forget!” says Nigel Brooks of Bath
House. “Our Serenite range with its sweet gift
bags and pick-up-able salts sachets and soaps
make great gift s for this important day!”
Th ere’s no excuse this year with Bath House
Serenite dressing up your shop window, these
great gift s will brighten up any spring day.
Visit www.thebathhouseshop.co.uk to fi nd
out more.
All that Glitters from Enesco is a feminine
gift collection of heart warming designs by
award winning artist Clare Davis and the
sparkling additions for 2010 extend its appeal
still further.
Clare’s trademark abstract style combines
fun loving motifs such as fl owers, hearts,
stars and spots in girly colours of pink, pale
blue and yellow with glamorous highlights in
Enesco
glittering gold.
Th e new bone china photo frames and
lidded boxes are decorated with the glittery
designs to create a gift full of meaning, to tell
Mum you love her.
Appealing to women who value spontaneity
and friendship in life, the All that Glitters
collection makes it easy to send messages of
aff ection and love.
Call +44 (0)1228 404 022 or visit the
website www.enesco.co.uk for details.
Cottage Garden – America’s number one
music box company – from Fraser Studios,
off ers a versatile gift option for Mother’s Day.
Managing director Colin Fraser explains:
“Th e joy of this line is that retailers are
provided with a bank of sentiment-driven
face paper graphics and sayings and are able
to change the appearance of the boxes at the
drop of a hat.”
In response to US retailers requesting lower
price points, Cottage Garden has created
four new products, which will be unveiled
at Spring Fair – a tiny trinket box; a small,
square box; a shallow ‘shadow’ box, without a
lid; and a tiny photo frame.
Call +44 (0)1592 774 540 or visit the
website www.fraserstudios.com for details.
Fraser Studios
giftfocus 35
giftfocus 35
mother’s day

��
make mum’s day ��
Joe Davies is well prepared for Mother’s Day
and has stocked up on a vast array of gift s for
deserving mums and grandmas. All will be on
display on the company’s newly extended Hall
7 stand at Spring Fair International.
Th e company boasts one of the largest
ranges of sentiment related gift s in the UK
and off ers hundreds of mum-related gift s
and photo frames. Girly Chic pen sets and
Trevi jewellery ranges make particularly apt
presents and as with all Joe Davies’ huge gift
collection are available in small quantities
using the company’s famous ‘little and oft en’
ordering system.
For details telephone +44 (0)1619 756 300.
Inspired by the beauty of the Orient
Abode Aroma’s new Kimono range off ers
sophisticated ambience, stylish elegance and
opulent luxury.
Th e fragrance diff users create a decorative
piece whilst providing a sophisticated interior
perfume. Th e highest quality ingredients are
sourced to create the fragrances – providing a
long-lasting and exotic aromatic diff user.
Th e fi ve fragrances include Yuzu Flower
– a fl oral scent entwined with a lilac woody
accord and Ginger Lily -glamorous, tempered
with spice and fl oral notes. Each diff user
is packaged in luxurious boxes ideal as a
Mother’s Day gift .
Visit www.beautyconnectionlimited.com to
fi nd out more.
Adobe
Aroma
36 giftfocus
Joe Davies
Xystos
For buyers looking for Mother’s Day gift s with
a modern yet feminine touch Layla – Ladies
Accessories You Like A Lot – is the new
sentiment-driven Pavilion Gift Company line
being distributed by Xystos.
Featuring home décor accessories styled
with chocolate brown leatherette, gloss ivory
and silver, the range spans tealight holders,
picture frames, plaques and jewellery trees, all
of which carry sentimental messages.
Amber Days, is another new sentimentdriven
range from Xystos, which captures
precious moments shared between family
and friends. Th ere are 16 beautifully sculpted,
patina-coloured models in the new range.
Telephone +44 (0)1914 991 570 or visit the
website www.xystos.co.uk for details.
For Every Body has put together a fragranced
candle off ering for Mother’s Day, that includes
“Mother” and “I Love You” you from their
“Greetings” collection, as well as “Cinnamon
Creamy Cheese Hearts” and “Rich Creamy
Chocolate” from “Tiny Temptations”.
Any retailer purchasing nine boxes from
“Greetings” or “ Tiny Temptations” ranges
For Every Body
Smile Jewellery
quoting FEBGF will receive one box free,
delivery before end of March 2010.
View the whole 2010 For Every Body
collection at the International Spring Fair or
visit the website www.foreverybody.biz.
It’s that special time of year to celebrate mums
and what better way than with a piece of
jewellery to keep and treasure for always.
A simple bangle, a stunning necklace or
maybe some beautiful earrings, whatever style
mum favours, Smile Jewellery is sure to have
something to please.
Visit the website www.smile4jewellery.com
to fi nd out more.
Mum’s own bottle
stopper off ers a
quirky Mother’s
Day gift idea from
Metal Planet.
Made from
pewter in the
UK, the design is
surrounded by tiny
crystal stones.
Th e cork forms
part of a large range of special occasion gift s
from Metal Planet. Other designs include
Wedding Day, 18-70 age range, anniversaries
and some fun slogans including ‘A Fine
Vintage’ and ‘It’s mine’!
Each cork comes with a range of matching
items from beautiful photo albums and
keyrings to special keepsake boxes.
Telephone +44 (0)208 440 2468 or visit the
website www.metalplanet.net for details. g
Metal Planet
�� ��

38 giftfocus
In brief
show Christmasworld
when 29 th January to 2 nd February 2010
where Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition
Centre, Germany
website www.christmasworld.
messefrankfurt.com
celebrate in style
Here’s hoping 2010 brings plenty of cause to celebrate!
Whatever the occasion Christmasworld is the place to be,
offering a world of event decoration to inspire and delight.
Christmasworld will be bringing together
a world of event decoration under one roof
at Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition Centre,
Germany from 29 th January to 2 nd February
this year.
Covering 53,428 square metres of
exhibition space, the show will unveil the
latest decorative products and trends covering
the whole spectrum of festivities.
Over the past five years the fair has
enjoyed continued growth to become the
world’s biggest order and trend platform for
festive decorations.
Testament to its strong international appeal,
last year’s edition featured 963 exhibitors
from 36 countries - 71 per cent from outside
Germany and attracted 29,500 visitors from
106 different countries. The show promises
to deliver a vast array of products from
Christmas decorations to coloured eggs for
Easter as well as ghosts and pumpkins for the
autumn season.
Improvements for 2010
A glittering showcase of beautiful things
for magical moments - this year’s edition
promises to be better than ever, thanks to
some major changes.
The whole show is being restructured,
moving to the western section of the
exhibition centre and the new hall 11, using
the adjoining Portalhaus entrance instead of
the Galleria entrance.
With improved layout and links connecting
the new hall to existing halls 9 and 10 the
show should be easier to shop enabling buyers
to plan and make the best use of their time at
the show. Related product groups that used to
be in different halls due to insufficient space
can now be presented together.
As an added bonus for visitors
Christmasworld takes place alongside three
other fairs Hair and Beauty, Beautyworld
and Paperworld, offering scope for cross
over buying.

Product portfolio
As well as Christmas ranges, products will
cover seasonal decorations for all major
events of the year. There will also be products
for baptisms, birthdays, confirmations and
weddings, quality handicrafts, items for
window dressing and shop decoration,
festive lighting, party goods, fireworks,
floristry items, ribbons and wrappings,
candles and fragrances.
Highlights
The Spirit of Celebration is an annual event
featuring a different nation and its traditional
festivals and celebrations. This year is the turn
of Italy and the focus will be on ‘Carnival in
Venice’. The city is renowned for its elaborate
masks and imaginative costumes and, in the
Galleria, Christmasworld visitors will be able
to see a special show with lots of Venetian
masks and costumes.
The aim of the event is to showcase the
broad range of decorations and traditions
peculiar to individual nations and further
underscore the internationality of the fair.
Trend show
The Christmasworld Trend Show offers the
ideal guide to the huge spectrum of products
on the market. It provides valuable insight
into the likely best sellers of tomorrow and
gives practical inspirations for creating
product ranges and shop displays.
Stylists bora.herke will present the trends
of 2010/2011 in terms of colour, pattern
and materials, in four themed worlds for
four different styles, using products from
Christmasworld exhibitors.
In addition the designers will be giving
lectures followed by guided tours at the Trend
Show twice a day throughout the fair.
The four main themes identified by the
bora.herke designers are:
giftfocus 39
christmas world

celebrate in style
Optimistic
‘Optimistic’ is a lively subject, which leaves plenty of room for
creativity and unconventional ideas and is notable for the use of
artificial materials, such as plastic, sheeting and rubber combined
with handicraft techniques.The range of colours is expressive
and includes coffee brown, salmon pink, an intensive red, emerald
green, canary yellow and aquamarine blue. Motives are punched or
stamped. Optimistic stands for the desire to make something special
out of everyday things and to turn every occasion into a festivity
through imaginative decorations.
Eccentric
A variety of cultures, epochs and artistic styles come together in
‘Eccentric’. Interesting effects are created by ornamental decorations
and artificial animal hides, as well as velvet, embossed leather, feathers
and wooden pearls. The colour framework is formed by gold bronze,
olive green, wine red, dark ruby red, a shade of amber and deep bluegreen.
This glamorous style is to be found at festive Christmas dinners
or elegant cocktail parties.
40 giftfocus
Authentic
‘Authentic’ describes the connection between old and new.The result
is an original style, plain, unaffected and individual.The colour palette
includes warm grey, an olivine green, petrol blue, sand grey, alabaster
and linen white. Natural materials, such as pale wood, cotton and glass
look authentic and are combined with plait patterns, floral motifs and
hand drawings.
Graphic
Sporting but elegant – that’s ‘Graphic’, which is distinguished by
geometric patterns in a variety of shades of white and velvety
black with gold and silver breaking through the surface at different
points.Visual illusions are created by stripes with dynamic effects,
abstract shapes and grid patterns. High-gloss surfaces generate
supplementary metallic effects.

REAL WAX
SCENTED ELECTRONIC
REMOTE CONTROL CANDLES
WWW.DIGICANDLES.COM
��������
������������
Specialising in Betty Boop, Disney Range, Rupert the Bear, The
Muppets, Winnie The Pooh, Garfi eld, Whimsical Figures and Mr.
Bean.
Frances Collectables Ltd is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of
resin fi gurine decorations that are designed and sculpted by
world acclaimed artist Peter Mook. Visitors are welcome
by appointment. Carriage paid £375
We are attending Spring Fair Hall 7 E17
Frances Collectables Ltd
T: 01702 544546 F: 05600 498490
E: francesgiftware@btconnect.com
www.frances-giftware.com
Unit 50 Magees Nurseries, Windsor Gardens, Hawkwell, Essex SS5 4LH

fun-tastic
Fun, novelty lines are a great way to raise
smiles as well as sales. We showcase just
some of the latest products to hit the market.
In the current tough retail climate novelty
gifts have been hitting the mark with
recession-weary consumers.
At the right pricepoint novelty gifts make a
great pick up and impulse buy, sure to raise a
smile with shoppers and retailers alike.
Capturing the lifestyle trend in the adult
market, the iconic Duff beer logo has inspired
a range of new novelty gift products as part of
The Simpsons licensing programme.
Long term Simpsons licensee Wesco
(www.wesco.ltd.uk) has developed a ‘Duff ’
inspired adult male novelty gift range,
including mug and glass gift sets scheduled to
launch in 2010 in time for Father’s Day. The
range includes a set of four coasters featuring
Homer and comical Duff related slogans. A
mousemat and mouse set, keyrings, plus a
mug and coaster tin set are also part of the
new gift range.
Wesco
Wesco
Baylis & Harding
In men’s toiletries, Baylis & Harding (www.
baylisandharding.com) has developed shower
gift sets using the iconic Duff design. Based
on the fun Duff beer theme, the boxed sets
feature Duff branded bottles of shower gel
and a frothy beer shaped sponge for ‘It’s a
Duff moment’ as well as a Duff bottle opener
in the ‘There’s nothing quite like Duff ’
themed set.
The Duff logo is also put to good effect
by men’s accessories partner Mag Mouch
(www.magmouch-sophos.com) who is
launching a set of Duff branded cufflinks and
handkerchief pack, with wallets and belts
currently in development.
Louise Collins, senior licensing manager at
20 th Century Fox, comments: “The Simpsons
brand offers a rich diversity of characters and
iconic themes that we can harness to develop
and build fresh and unique gifting ranges
each year.
‘Duff ’ is the beer brand of choice for
Homer and his pals, and we have identified
Addject
that it is the perfect endorsement for
male drinking products. Capturing the
recognisable design and varying logo features
onto our housewares and gift products
enables us to bring the world of Springfield
into the home.
Family Guy attracts a
loyal fan base of teen
boys and young adult
males who enjoy the
irreverent humour of
the characters and
story lines – both
key factors in the
development of
novelty gifting
designs.
The latest
version of the top
selling Family Guy In
Your Pocket voice key chains by Underground
Toys (www.undergroundtoys.co.uk) will
launch at retail early 2010. The two new
additions to the range feature six new and
ruder phrases from popular characters such
as Stewie, Peter, Brian and Quagmire. In
addition, Underground Toys is launching a
range of three inch collectable figurines by
The Promotions Factory, the perfect size for a
desk, bookcase or car dashboard.
A new partner to the Family Guy licensing
programme, Posh Paws has developed a
range of barware, mugs and novelty gift
items for launch in 2010. The range consists
of individual items such as two wine bottle
stoppers featuring Brian and Peter, a Peter
Griffin photoclip, and a talking bottle
opener keyring.
Call +44 (0)1268 567 317 for details.
giftfocus 43
novelty handmade gifts

fun-tastic
Rainbow Designs
Rainbow Designs off ers some cracking novelty
character gift s featuring some of licensing’s
favourite characters.
New arrivals to the Paddington Tourist
collection feature the on-trend Union Jack
fl ag design. Britain’s favourite bear is the star
of this striking range which includes the new
London Bus tin money box, Paddington mug
and Union Jack Flag Paddington cushion.
Retailers can create the complete
Paddington story with the mini Paddington in
tin Union Jack suitcase and the classic 19cm
Paddington with boots.
Dynamic duo Wallace & Gromit never fail
to entertain and delight fans of all ages and
Rainbow Designs’ gift collection features
exciting new additions for 2010. Stylish yet
practical novelty gift s include soft and cosy
Gromit slippers, stoneware mugs in two
designs and plush Gromit keyrings.
Fans of Nick Park’s creation will also love
Fluffl es, the pet poodle who steals Gromit’s
heart, with Gromit and Fluffl es bean toys and
22cm Fluffl es in display box.
Call +44 (0)8707 587 700 or visit the
website www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk for details.
Addject is launching a range of urban-themed
products in 2010, including two new novelty
bottle openers.
Th e London Underground bottle opener
is small enough to fi t in your pocket and a
great collector’s item. Th e bottle opener is in
the shape of the red and blue Tube symbol
and is made from enamelled chrome-plated
steel, with ‘not for use on public transport’
engraved on the back. As well as being
magnetic, the Underground bottle opener
also has a ball-chain so you can attach it to
your keys.
Th e ASBO bottle opener is a quirky design
44 giftfocus
Addject
of a young male wearing a hoody engraved
with the word ‘ASBO’ as an amusing take
on modern youth culture. Th e hoody itself
is a silicone cover, which acts as the grip for
the bottle opener, over the chrome-plated
magnetic steel body. Th e hoody opener is a
funky accessory for any kitchen worktop or
fridge door.
Visit the website www.addject.com for
further information.
Following the successful re-launch of the
original Stylophone, re:creation has been
enjoying great feedback about a brand new
instrument under the Classic Stylophone
brand – the Stylophone BeatBox!
Retaining all the cool retro features of the
original Stylophone, the BeatBox off ers new
technology and a more up to date sound.
Th e stylus operated, portable electronic beats
machine is the only gadget of its kind!
It plays a variety of percussion sounds
using the stylus provided to touch the 13
pads on its circular ‘keyboard’. Choose from
a selection of three new exclusive voices
including ‘Human BeatBox’, ‘Percussion’ and
‘Bass Stylophone’ before using the brand
new scratch function to mix up tunes on
the move!
Using human vocals to imitate percussion
sounds, the BeatBox comes complete with
three diff erent sound sets along with manual
tempo and volume controls allowing you
to change tempo and play sounds over the
top of your favourite beat. Listen to the
specially recorded samples from MC Zani,
winner of the 2008 Vauxhall UK Beatbox
Championships before making musical magic
of your own.
Visit the website www.recreationplc.com or
call +44 (0)1189 736 222 for details.
Character Novelty supplies a fun range of loo
rolls. Currently available are Gordon Brown
and David Cameron, and coming soon Simon
Cowell, Jordan, Posh Spice and many more.
Toilet fun facts – courtesy of Character
Novelty:
• Th e average person spends three years of
their life on the loo.
• Most toilets fl ush in the key of E fl at.
• World Toilet Day takes place on 19
g
th
November each year.
• Th e fi rst toilet paper was developed in
England in 1880 and was sold not on a roll,
but as individual sheets in a box.
Visit www.play.com for further details.
Character Novelty
re:creation

THE PACKAGING THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
www.cleartecpackaging.co.uk
sales@cleartecpackaging.co.uk
Tel: 01952 678822
Lawrence
ofBath
Start 2010 with the ultimate Eco gift that’s
proving very popular with retailers and
consumers alike.
Cheeseboards ~ Olive & Nibble dishes ~ Bowls
Coasters ~ and much more
Tap into the green consumer market with our wonderful range of
recycled and beautiful items, all handmade at our studio in Bath.
These novel and unique items are fantastic as gifts, table or
homeware, give you instant ‘green cred’ with your customers, and
provide you with a fast moving line that will not stay on your
shelves for long.
New ~ take a look at our beautiful handmade
vintage cup scented candles.
To find out more about this fast moving range visit:
www.lawrenceofbath.co.uk
or call us on 08450 212145

e prepared
Planning your promotional activity in advance
will give you a good position ahead of your
competition, allowing you to pull customers
into your store especially during predicted
quiet times. A popular misconception in the
retail world surrounding promotional activity
is that it comes with a high price: you either
have to cut prices, give away free stock or
invest in publicity support. However, there
are many promotions which involve minimum
investment but which can wield high returns.
Your first port of call should be to work
with the brands you stock in store. Many of
these brands will offer you promotions which
you can pass onto your customers, giving
you support in your activities. For example,
they may have a scheme which offers you a
different product each month at a discounted
price. This product can then be promoted in
store with a percentage off for customers,
driving sales and encouraging customers to
return each month to discover what the new
product will be.
“A popular misconception in
the retail world surrounding
promotional activity is that it
comes with a high price. ”
Enquire as to whether the brand offers
graphic and POS material to support the
promotion. These can be used around the
store and in the window to bring customers
in and drive them to the promotion. Also find
46 giftfocus
Retail promotions are often thought of as an expense, which is only really
affordable to larger retail stores. However, there are many different types of
promotional activities which retailers should consider, whatever their size,
as a means of increasing not only footfall through their doors but also sales.
Here, Clive Harper, managing director of Yankee Candle ® gives his advice
on promotional activity and how to plan throughout the year leaving you in
control and well ahead of the game.
out if there is a promotional plan for the year
ahead, this will allow you to prepare many
things in advance, such as how much instore
space to allocate to the promotion and any
displays you will need to create.
“Many brands may either offer
a promotional scheme which
changes or a completely
different promotion each
month, so make sure you
maximise the opportunities
this offers. ”
Many brands may either offer a promotional
scheme which changes or a completely
different promotion each month, so make sure
you maximise the opportunities this offers.
Refresh your shop displays to reflect the
promotion, even allocating window space to
draw new customers in. By creating a pattern
with your displays and promotions you will see
an increase of regular customers as they return
to discover ‘this month’s bargain’.
Your local press also offers a medium
through which to gain free publicity and run
customer promotions, which can be carefully
worded to drive people into your store or to
your website. You can give away products, offer
a ‘personal shopping service’ in your store with
spending money or offer a certain percentage
off a line or product. Contact popular brands
you stock and ask if they offer support with
“Finally, remember that
whatever your promotion is
it needs to be appealing to
the customer and it needs to
be worth their while. ”
this type of promotional activity: many will be
able to provide you with expertise such as
PR, marketing and graphic design to ensure
the promotion is as successful as possible. This
promotional activity would be useful during
quieter times in the year and will also work
to build awareness about your store: even
though there are only one or two winners of
the promotion many thousands will see the
coverage about your shop in the press.
Finally, remember that whatever your
promotion is it needs to be appealing to the
customer and it needs to be worth their
while. A brand will know their best sellers
at particular times of the year and what
customers are looking for, so use their advice
and information. Your promotional activities are
a tool to draw customers in, encourage repeat
visits and increase sales, so any promotion you
run publicise, publicise, publicise! g
Further information
For further information on Yankee Candle®
and advice about retailer initiatives telephone
+44 (0)1454 454 500 or visit the website
www.yankeecandle.co.uk.

advertising feature
What’s fruity this season?
See them at Spring Fair Birmingham Hall 7 Stand D37/C38
Turn up the heat for sizzling summer
sales with the new, mouth-watering fruit
fragrances from the world’s leading home
fragrancing manufacturer, Yankee Candle®.
Yankee® steps back in time for the
summer fruit fragrances launch, with
some classic retro scents.
Strawberry Buttercream is a yummy
delicious treat reminiscent of plump
strawberries buried in a rich whipped
cream to tempt the taste buds.
Fruit Salad conjures up a festive
summer party with a bright fun mix of
juicy, sun-rich melons, berries and citrus
fruits and Tutti-Frutti evokes the forever
young happy candy aroma of cherry,
raspberry, strawberry and lemon lollipops.
A great selection of fun, feel good
fragrances to entice your customers into
your store this summer.
Available to order now for delivery in
store in early March just in time for the
summer selling season to begin. g
For further information please contact
your customer care or area sales
manager, call Yankee Candle on
01454 454500 or visit the website
www.yankeecandle.co.uk
giftfocus 47
yankee candle

time well spent
Make every second count with fab clocks to herald in the new decade. We showcase just
some of the fun and stylish designs on the market…
Stag clock by Polly Westergaard
www.westergaarddesigns.co.uk
The Ministry
wall clock by Newgate Clocks
www.thenewgatestore.com
48
48
giftfocus giftfocus
Rhythm Magic Motion wall
clock from Widdop Bingham
www.widdop.co.uk
Cat Voice alarm clock from Gift
Time Products
www.gift-time-products.co.uk
QuackCoo clock
from HeadsUp
Design Company
www.headsupco.com
Elm & Fern clocks by Smith
& Taylor Clocks
admin@smithtaylorclocks.co.uk

Jacob Jensen Wake Up
clock from Absolut Form
www.topgourmet.co.uk
Tewit Owl clock by
Maxine Pharoah
www.maxinepharoah.com
Vintage Ribbon clock from Spaceform
www.spaceform.com
Polkadot alarm by Acctim
www.acctim.com
I’ll Always Have Time For You
from A Breed Apart by Grant
Palmer for Country Artists
www.countryartists.co.uk
Karlsson Into The Universe wall
clock from Present Time
www.presenttime.com g
giftfocus 49
giftfocus 49
clocks

Fantasy Gifts Ltd
Pictured are a selection of winter releases
from Fantasy Gifts Ltd:
Autumn Queen by Amy Brown, Nightfall by Jessica
Galbreth and Caelia by Selina Fenech are just a few
of many new items recently introduced. For more
information call, or visit the website.
Web: www.fantasygiftsltd.com
E-mail: enquiries@fantasygiftsltd.com
Phone: 01606 359 111

hot
Get the low-down
property
on hot new properties and latest licensing deals
Boofl e licensing gets a boost
One of greeting’s newest and cutest arrivals is creating
a buzz in the licensing world with a strong programme
lined up for 2010.
Boofl e, UK Greetings’ cuddly knitted pup, has been a
growing success story in Clinton Cards since the cards
were fi rst launched in summer 2008 and Xpressions’
extensive range of plush and gifting followed soon after.
DRi has big plans on the licensing front with a
number of new deals already signed – a major apparel
licence which will cover babywear, girls and ladies
wear as well as socks from Roy Lowe. Finsbury
Foods will be launching a range of celebration cakes,
Character World bedding and bedroom accessories,
and other major categories are also set to be announced.
For more information call DRi Licensing on +44 (0)208 600 2550 or send an email to
alicia@drilicensing.co.uk
Nintendo Greetings and Gift Packaging for Gemma International
Performance Brand and Gemma International have announced the signing of Nintendo’s
licensing rights for the greetings and gift packaging categories.
With more than one billion games sold worldwide, Nintendo is the world leader in
interactive entertainment.
Gemma International has been at the forefront of design, creativity and innovation in
licensed character greeting cards and ancillary products since 1985.
Gemma’s range of greetings and gift packaging will be previewed at Spring Fair International
at Birmingham’s NEC this February before launching in March 2010. The deal comes at a
great time for the Andover-based business, which has been developing a brand new product
offer for 2010. Tim Rudd-Clarke, Gemma’s licensing director, said: “2009 has seen a shift in the
home entertainment market with world–wide video games’ sales value exceeding DVDs and
Blu-Ray for the fi rst time. It was therefore the perfect timing for Gemma to start working with
Nintendo, the most iconic games brand.”
For more information telephone Marie Guyader, marketing manager at Gemma
International Ltd. on +44 (0)1264 388 400.
Crazy for Gogo’s!
Bulldog Licensing has announced three new deals for red-hot kids’
property Gogo’s Crazy Bones, with Alpa, Winning Moves and Vogue all
joining the fold.
Produced by Magic Box International and Promociones Premier
International, Gogo’s are more popular than ever before and the
new Power Gogo’s range has added to the excitement surrounding
the brand.
The new deals will see Alpa producing a back to school and gift
line and Vogue launching a range of Gogo’s branded lunch boxes and
bottles, whilst Winning Moves is on board for a set of Gogo’s Top
Trumps, which will be launched in territories across the world as well
as the UK.
The new deals add to an ever expanding list of top licensees.
For further information email Jane Garner or Sallie Deary at
jgarner@kilog.co.uk / sdeary@kilog.co.uk.
Elmer Shoes from Daisy Roots
Northamptonshire based shoe
manufacturer Daisy Roots has agreed a
licence with Anderson Press to produce
shoes featuring Elmer, the patchwork
elephant, in the UK and Ireland.
Elmer is a much-loved children’s
story book character and his colourful
appearance makes him the perfect motif
for Daisy Roots soft leather shoes.. To help
show Elmer at his colourful best the three
shoes in the range are made from white
chrome free leather, with contrasting pale
pink leather round the ankle for girls and
pale blue leather for boys.
The Elmer shoes are available in four
sizes, 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18
months and 18-24 months.
For details visit www.daisy-roots.com
giftfocus 51
hot property

Smiley Happy Cashmere
January 2010 sees the European launch of the newest line from Smiley, ‘Smiley Happy Cashmere’. The luxurious
new collection features the original Smiley face interpreted into soft and stylish cashmere pieces.
The unisex range includes jumpers, hoodied tops, and dresses and winter accessories such as bobble hats, gloves,
wraps and hooded scarves in subdued neutral tones alongside saturated brights including the classic Smiley yellow. Interesting shapes and fun quirky
designs are fi nished with playful and fun embellishment and patterns including oversized pom-poms, bows, Swarovski crystals, Breton stripes and
Trompe-l’œil detailing.
The collection will be available in stores from July 2010. For further details email Nicolas Loufrani at nloufrani@smileylicensing.com.
Gruff alo stationery
Blueprint Collections is launching its fi rst range of stationery featuring The Gruffalo. Using wood
and fabric to create a natural feel, the premium range features humour typical of the classic,
ever popular character.
Products include a wooden stationery set, canvas pencil case, a pop-up and play pack and an
A3 wallplanner. The collection will launch in March 2010.
The Gruffalo was fi rst published in 1999 and over the years, the much loved children’s book
has become a fi rm favourite with millions of readers everywhere, both children and adults alike,
and has so far been translated into over 30 languages world-wide.
Email sales@bluecoll.co.uk or telephone +44 (0)8452 172 400 for details.
Character World
joins forces with the
military
Bedroom makeover business,
Character World is armed with
a new licence to design and
produce a range of bedroom
furnishings in association with
the Ministry of Defence.
The Cheadle-based
company has secured the
licence to produce bedroom
products including duvet
covers, curtains, fl eece blankets,
cushions and rugs for the three services; the Royal Navy, Army and
Royal Air Force, under the HM Armed Forces brand.
Visit the website www.characterworld.uk.com for details.
Pet Poets Club parade new licensing deals
Lavish Rights has announced a raft of new licensing deals for its social expression brand, The Pet Poets
Club, including in the UK:
• Silverknit - for children’s underwear and nightwear;
• Only 4 U – for gift product; and
• It’s Your Story – for personalised print on demand greeting books.
Deals have also been struck in North America and Australia.
Commenting on the new deals, Marc Todd of Lavish Rights says: “We are delighted to see the
continued growth of this brand, particularly in the newly signed territories of North America and
Australia. Also gratifying is the wide range categories that are now developing Pet Poet Club product.”
For more information email marc@lavishrights.com or call +44 (0)207 292 1212.
52 giftfocus
Th e Bow Wow factor
Never mind the catwalk, meet the ‘dogwalk’
as Manhattan Group announces its
appointment as licensed manufacturer and
distributor for FuzzyNation dog-themed
handbags and plush in North America and
Europe.
FuzzyNation’s collection of top pedigree
pooches will be snuggling under the arm or nuzzling
the shoulder of many a fashionista this season. All
dressed in totally on-trend outfi ts the poochie bags
and plush have the ‘Bow!’ as well as the ‘Wow!’ factor,
with Pugs, Bostons, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds and
more to choose from. The handbags and wristlets
are sold in delightful gift boxes.
View the collection at www.fuzzynation.com or call Manhattan Toy
on +44 (0)208 944 3192 for further information.
hot property

the in thing
With signs of a recovery on the horizon, savvy retailers
will be looking to cash in by making sure their shelves are
stocked with hot products that are top of the consumer
wish list.
Trends guru Nigel Carrier has an eye for what’s in and
what’s out, honed by over 30 years’ experience in the retail
industry both as a buyer, an exhibitor and a consultant to influential Clarion
Retail shows, Pulse and Top Drawer.
Here he shares his views on what’s set to be big in 2010.
2010 could be a watershed year as consumers
rethink their priorities post recession, post
Copenhagen climate summit. Living a little
lighter could be an exciting challenge and with
change comes opportunity. Two adjustments
will continue; a flight to low priced product by
some and more importantly a shift to higher
quality and more considered shopping.
These are some of the topics that
I think that will affect the market
in 2010:
“We are too poor for cheap shoes” –
(a favourite truism).
The market has gorged on cheap products
for over a decade and the public is now
much more savvy to the fact that price is not
everything. Quality and longevity will matter
more. Well trained staff helps in the process
of well informed purchases and a return
to higher service levels will be an essential
part of the high street battle. The John Lewis
Partnership will be the winners here as well as
a host of small specialist businesses.
Michelle Mason
Modern and optimistic
As confidence returns modern design will
benefit. Skandium’s immaculate shops have
opened the market for Scandinavian design;
timeless products that do not date.
Bold modern fabric prints are optimistic
and a joy to live with and textiles represent
a very affordable way of livening up a home.
There are a growing number of start-up
businesses in this area as well as established
companies such as Marimekko.
Simple products that are interesting
because of their use of original materials will
make their mark. In particular rubber clocks
and watches by Japanese Company I.D.E.A
International come to mind here.
Eco-friendly
Companies are clamouring to claim their eco
credentials; what surprises me is that a really
strong specialist business has not emerged
that takes the issue as a truly core USP, in the
way that Body Shop took ownership of the
concept of not testing on animals. 2010 could
be the year!
A lot of the advances in this area will be
driven by new technologies and materials.
Bamboo can be grown sustainably, and has
amazing advantages; non allergenic, anti
fungal, its production requires no pesticides
or fertilizer. It is the fastest growing material
in the world. It is being used to make
everything from socks to flooring to towels.
Green Pioneer
Green Pioneer is a forerunner in the use
of this material with its award winning bowls
and 95% Danish is another company offering
brilliant new kitchen products.
Remade, refinished, repainted
The British are very comfortable with vintage
as a style. The whole shabby chic look was
British inspired; the real thing has been
around for generations here in the UK.
Showroom perfect is not everybody’s cup
of tea and to some it is brash and unfriendly.
Vintage is here to stay.
Deckchair Stripes
giftfocus 55
trends 2010

the in thing
Ordinary to extraordinary
Th ere are several companies making very
good versions of familiar products. Deckchair
Stripes has produced garden furniture that
in one way looks classic, but brilliant use of
fabrics and fi nish make it look exceptional.
Antonio Arevalo has produced a lampshade
that in one way is quite regular, but the
metallic fi nish is amazing.
Colour
I don’t pretend to be a colour expert but I
know that each season there are one or two
accent colours that really spark interest and
sales, particularly with home accessories.
Th ere are lots of colour prediction
businesses such as Mix Future Interiors that
can provide great inspiration. For my part
I am liking duck egg blue as a colour; it has
56 giftfocus
Jansen + Co
Michelle Mason
energy whilst being elegant and it has not
been overused.
Kids
Great products are being produced in
cardboard such as playhouses, fun storage
boxes and Jansen + Co of Amsterdam is
launching a sturdy children’s stool. Children
can draw on them and when no longer
required they can go in the recycling bin.
Th e girlie pink craze may be coming to the
end of its shelf life. Not just because of the
politically correct noises out there now, I
think that the whole look has had a pretty
good run. Th e younger design companies
are taking more of a “funky” route that is not
based on gender. Check out Toff ee Moon,
Ann Claire Petit and Mr Kaliski.
Ethnic
Everything has been exposed to the market,
from Mexican craft s to African tribal. Th ere
is no where left to go and the winners will
be those using these wonderful skills and
resources to create modern looking product.
Check out Voodoo Blue and Maison Bengal.
Designer Makers
Th e success of Launchpad at Pulse confi rms
the growing interest in this area. “Craft y” is
being replaced by cutting edge. Personally
I would rather be given something that is
bespoke, or from a small manufacturer rather
than the “airport mall off er”. Th e complete
dominance of mega brands may be waning.
As with the food sector, the idea of local
increasingly appeals.
Antonio Arevalo
Gifts
Th is is a diffi cult area to anticipate because it
relies on the unexpected.
Having said that, there are some incredibly
good designs going on to tea towels. Th e trend
was started some years ago by smaller textile
designers. In the eighties the humble post
card became the vehicle for great design with
companies such as Photofolio leading the way.
All of a sudden the product commanded what
was then a premium price. Tea towels are the
new postcard and 2010 will be their year.
Traditionally souvenirs were not known for
their design appeal, but a lot of designers are
using motifs lift ed from London icons. Check
out Allison Wiff en, Snowden Flood and
Michelle Mason.
What my friends are saying about
what’s big for 2010…
Polly Thomson, Mclaggan Smith Mugs Ltd:
“We think fresh and optimistic - bright
colours.”
Mark Jonas of Authentics Ltd:
“Aft er Copenhagen I am thinking about
product longevity and the responsibility of
this industry.”
Anouk Jansen of Jansen+Co:
“Material is durable and honest, craft y
artistic details on industrial forms, palette
of optimistic colours like tomato red and
sky blue do well with faded grey and greens.
Green is the colour of life!
“No matter what colour or material or
function, accessorise your life with products
that have character, elegance and humour.
As long as you fall in love with a product, it
is a good product! g

ags, bags, bags
We reveal some of the latest hot handbag designs set to fl y off the shelves
Colour
Candy sweet
58 giftfocus
Netplant
www.netplant.co.uk
Gabriella Handbags
www.gabriellahandbags.com
Natural & nude
Mad Bags
www.fraserstudios.com
Step into spring and summer with delicious candy colours, summer brights, nude and natural hues.
Fiorelli
www.fi orelli.com
Taurus Leather
www.taurus-leather.co.uk
Netplant
www.netplant.co.uk
Netplant
www.netplant.co.uk
Summer brights
Nica
www.nica.co.uk
Pia Rossini
www.piarossini.com

Detail
Gabriella Handbags
www.gabriellahandbags.com
Flowers
Capiz & Chartage
www.chartage.co.uk
Nica
www.nica.co.uk
Make a style statement with mock croc and faux snakeskin effect, beautiful bows and funky fl owers.
Modalu London
www.modalu.com
Poltsa
www.poltsa.co.uk
Fiorelli
www.fi orelli.com
Bows
Gabriella Handbags
www.gabriellahandbags.com
Gabriella Handbags
www.gabriellahandbags.com
Animal instincts
Capiz & Chartage
www.chartage.co.uk
giftfocus 59
handbags

on your marks
Leading UK shopping centres are banding together to help give new retail talent the ultimate
headstart. Read on to find out more…
Have you got the idea that will create the
store of the future?
A major national competition - Make Your
Mark in Retail - is underway to help the retail
stars of tomorrow out of the starting blocks.
The competition offers 27 regional winners
the chance to trade for two weeks free-ofcharge
in some of the UK’s leading shopping
centres including the 19 UK Mall shopping
centres, Lakeside and Metrocentre, Gateshead.
The overall winner nets the opportunity to
launch their business for real.
The closing date for applications is 14 th
February 2010 and the winner will be
announced week commencing 26 th April.
Working alongside Enterprise UK, RBS
and the National Skills Academy for Retail,
The Mall has developed the competition
dramatically since creating it two years ago. By
teaming up with Retail Profile - the company
that manages the Retail Merchandising
Unit (RMU) operations for numerous
major landlords – it has now extended the
competition to shopping centres owned by
Previous winner Initially Yours
Capital Shopping Centres PLC, in a bid to
reach even more retail entrepreneurs.
Ken Ford is executive director of Capital
& Regional Retail, which runs The Mall, the
leading owner and operator of community
shopping centres in the UK. He comments:
“Now is the time for the emerging retail
talent of the future. At a time when we are
experiencing the highest unemployment for
a generation and the high street is changing
radically, retail is ripe for change.
“The future of retail is going to be shaped
by some great new retail businesses and this
competition allows ordinary people, who
have been made redundant or who have been
looking for a change in career, to start their
business and play their part in moulding the
nation’s high streets.”
Martin Kemp, managing director of Retail
Profile says: “Retail Merchandising Units in
shopping centres are often the first step for
many successful retail entrepreneurs. Retail
Profile is pleased to work with our partners in
the industry to offer new, people a chance.”
Denise Ramsey, national partnerships
manager of Enterprise UK adds: “Enterprise
UK’s mission is to give people in the UK
the confidence, skills and ambition to be
enterprising. Make Your Mark in Retail now
in its third year, does exactly that and is a
great opportunity for someone to turn their
passion into profit. Maybe someone out there
is thinking of generating a second income
or turning a hobby into a business. This is a
great platform for them to do so. This is a real
sustainable opportunity for the development
of new businesses.”
The competition enables entrants the
opportunity to test their business on a
Retail Merchandising Unit (RMU) and the
outstanding candidate is rewarded a ‘retail
start up package’ that includes:
• Six months’ rent free trading on an RMU
beginning 10 th May 2010;
• Hands on support from The Mall;
• A business mentor from The Royal Bank of
Scotland Group;
• A place at the British Shops & Stores
Association Summer School at Keble College
Oxford; and
• A place at the National Skills Academy
Retail Masterclass.
For an application form visit The Mall’s
website at www.themall.co.uk/business/mym.
Previous Winner Lisa Gosling is a qualified
chef from Bexleyheath with two major
passions in life, cooking and dogs.
She decided to combine the two and created
“Daisy’s Dog Deli”, an exclusive dog bakery
business, which was named after Daisy, Lisa’s
Wheaten Terrier. It soon proved popular
among friends and Lisa was keen to expand
further but was unsure how to proceed
without advice and a great deal of cash in
hand. Therefore when she heard of ‘Make
Your Mark in The Mall’ she decided to enter
– and won!
Lisa says: “I saw a gap in the ever expanding
pet market for wholesome healthy treats and
food and went for it. I always knew we could
make it a success but to have been chosen out
of 22 finalists by such an esteemed panel in
my first year of trading is amazing.” g
Daisy's Dog Deli
giftfocus 63
retail initiative

new decade, new look
The world’s biggest consumer
goods fair for the table, kitchen
and household sectors, home
and giving, opens its doors in
Frankfurt this February with a
brand new look.
Ambiente is one of the world’s major business
events, bringing together three leading trade
fairs – Dining, Giving and Living.
A magnet for buyers and trade visitors from
around the globe, around 4,300 international
exhibitors will present their latest products,
ideas and trends at the 2010 edition.
A truly international event, around 70 per
cent of exhibitors and 40 per cent of visitors
come to the show from outside Germany.
Despite the economic crisis Ambiente
maintains a stable position in the global fair
and exhibition market.
Says show director
Thomas Kastl: “There
are several reasons for
this. One of them is that
a leading trade fair such
as Ambiente is needed
by its sector and that it
offers a high degree of certainty, especially in
times of economic difficulty.
“Ambiente represents a guardrail that
provides both stability and orientation. It is
not only a tower of strength for our company
but also for the sector, especially when the
storm is blowing hard.”
New look
To keep pace with the evolving market, major
changes are being introduced this year in
order to adapt and meet current needs.
With declining demand for tableware
products and growth in kitchen and
household products, substantial restructuring
is being introduced to reflect this and to better
serve the sector.
66 giftfocus
IN BRIEF
show Ambiente
where Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition
Centre, Germany
when 12 th -16 th February 2010
website www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com
Previously around 150 companies in the
tableware sector exhibited on the three floors
of Hall 10 with permanent stands. This was
a legacy from around 40 years ago when
tableware was a showcase industry.
Ambiente 2010 will have a completely new
look, without permanent stand floors. The
recently opened ‘Portalhaus’ and new Hall 11,
both enable the exhibition centre to be used
more efficiently. The new exhibition hall has
23,860 square metres of exhibition space on
two floors.
The show is being turned through 180
degrees, so that for the first time Dining will
be on the city-side of the exhibition centre.
The aim is to make the best use of the new
facilities, with improved links and shorter
walking distances to make the fair more
accessible and efficient for visitors.
The fair will no longer be organised solely
by segments and products but will also take
into account other considerations like design
aspects, the market segment and customerorientation
of visitors.
The new layout is designed to make it easier
for visitors to find the right suppliers to meet
their needs, to structure their visit and select
the right exhibition halls.
Dining
Dining is the world’s leading trade fair for the
table, kitchen and household sectors.
Around 2,050 international suppliers of
glass, porcelain and ceramic products, cutlery
and kitchen and household goods, present
their highlights for the coming year.
In 2010, the table, kitchen and household
Passage Gifts
section will occupy over 100,000 square
metres of exhibition space. Thanks to
the restructuring of the fair, important
segments will offer greater potential than
ever before. The spectrum is being expanded
internationally and the hall layouts optimised.
Through the growth of Kitchen and
Household, both segments now have their
own individual platform.
In the kitchen trends halls companies will
be showing new products for the modern
kitchen, including trendy kitchen accessories,
table and kitchen textiles, bar and beverage
utensils and gourmet gifts.
In Hall 3, the focus is on knives, pots and
pans as well as small electrical appliances.
In the Table segment the fair is structured
around styles and sales channels. Exhibitors
will be presenting everything for the elegant
dining table with product ranges made of
glass, porcelain and ceramic. Visitors will also

find fine crystal, as well as silver, metalware
and plastic. Completely new are the thematic
focal points, designed to help buyers find what
they are looking for quickly and easily.
Other halls will be focusing on
contemporary design, prestige – luxury
brands like Villeroy & Boch and Rosenthal,
core lines for the dining table as well as ranges
sold and purchased in bulk.
Giving
The complete spectrum of gifts will be on
display from give-aways to unique items.
Visitors can discover new products in
stationery lines, leather goods, toys, arts &
crafts, candles, not to mention handmade
glass items, high quality textile prints and
limited, hand-crafted series. Additionally
Kids World offers the latest and most original
products for the younger generation, while
everything at Carat revolves around the
glittering world of real and costume jewellery.
Gifts Unlimited
This is supplemented by personal accessories,
such as small bags, scarves and arts and crafts.
This combination allows design-led dealers
the opportunity to put together an assortment
of jewellery and accessories in line with their
customer base.
Young & Trendy features design and
fashion orientated products – young, bold and
distinguished by unusual design.
For Giving too, there is a special Passage
section aimed specifically at bulk buyers.
Around 1,250 exhibitors make up the
colourful world of Giving. In the future it
will have even more room and will share the
western section of the exhibition centre with
Living, further underlining the synergies
between design and lifestyle themes.
Living
Here around 1,000 international suppliers of
furniture, home and furnishing accessories
and home textiles will be setting the standards
for interior design. All styles are represented,
from classic to modern, plain to opulent.
Halls will feature products for indoors and
outdoors including attractive accessories and
decorations, garden furniture and planters, as
well as everything for outdoor festivities.
Loft, in the new Hall 11, provides a
platform for design and lifestyle-orientated
products. Avant-garde home accessories,
furniture, lighting and textiles will be on
show. The Talents section will also feature
young, up-and-coming designers, while start
up companies in the Next special area will be
presenting their designs and prototypes.
Trends
Ambiente is a source of inspiration and an
important platform for trend and design
presentations.
Highlights include a trends show for
2010, developed and staged by the bora.
herke design studio in four thematic worlds
revealing what will be ‘in’ during the seasons
ahead and how retailers can present the trends
at point of sale.
Kids World
Young talents get chance to present their
innovative ideas via the Talents promotional
programme within the Loft area. There is also
an additional area this year within the ‘Table’
section where young designers will show their
ideas for the table, kitchen and household.
Inspirational design ideas will also be on show
at ‘A Mano’ where the focus will be on young
design companies, exciting niche products
and product innovations set to break through
on the international market.
Sustainability and social responsibility are
the theme of a special show in the foyer of
Hall 10.1, providing information about trends
in this field.
Spread throughout the exhibition centre
special ‘Windows’ will showcase the trend
worlds of different sectors, offering interesting
insight into different product lines.
The new look Ambiente includes many
innovations for both exhibitors and visitors.
Visit the show’s new internet presentation
at www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com to find
out more. g
(Photographs by Petra Welzel courtesy of
Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH)
giftfocus 67
ambiente

The Candle Globe
...a beautful and ambient night light
hand made by Craftsmen
1985-2010 Celebrating our 25 th Anniversary
We look forward to seeing you at Spring Fair Hall 6 Stand C41
Visit our new website www.themilfordcollection.co.uk
Unit 18 Dyffryn Industrial Estate, Newtown, Powys SY16 3BD
Tel: 01686 629919 Fax: 01686 623918
Email: david@milfordcollection.com www.themilfordcollection.co.uk

essence of the
entrepreneur
Top UK entrepreneurs have been honoured for their
innovation and use of technology to succeed, including
two rising stars of the gift and accessories world.
Twenty top UK entrepreneurs have been
awarded for their innovation and success
in the national BT Business Essence of
the Entrepreneur competition. Despite
the difficult economic year, the 20 small
companies announced by BT Business
represent a diverse selection of UK
businesses that are all using technology
to succeed.
The winners, who have fought through
the recession to survive, show that the UK’s
entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking.
The entrepreneurs behind the unique
businesses come from all backgrounds and
were picked from hundreds of finalists by a
panel of judges headed up by well known
business entrepreneur Peter Jones of
Dragons’ Den fame and Claire Young, 2008
runner-up of BBC’s The Apprentice.
The winners had the essence of their
business captured in a stunning portrait by
renowned celebrity photographer Rankin,
which will be on show at a public exhibition
at the gallery@oxo on London’s South Bank
from 29th January – 29th February 2010.
The annual BT Business Essence of the
Entrepreneur competition celebrates UK
entrepreneurs that have demonstrated
exceptional dedication and passion towards
their work. The winners are all at the
forefront of using technology to help them
succeed in a variety of different ways, from
interactive customer websites to GPS
tracking devices.
Bill Murphy, managing director of
BT Business said: “It’s an inspiration to
see the great resolve of this country’s
entrepreneurs in the face of tough times.
Now, more than ever, businesses need the
recognition and support that these awards
are able to give them. Technology is helping
entrepreneurs diversify, think differently
about how they run their businesses
and evolve the services they offer in a
challenging economy. We have recognised
some of the businesses that are at the
forefront of these innovations.”
Head judge Peter Jones added: “The
BT Business Essence of the Entrepreneur
winners are bucking a trend, creating
stand-out businesses, harnessing the
developments of technology and thriving.
I was massively impressed with the
standard of entries, and the diversity of
the entrepreneurs, and I congratulate the
winners for being selected.”
Gift Republic and BannerBags were
among the winners.
Gift Republic
is a unique
business offering
unique gifts. It
was founded in
2006 by Sam
Wahid, straight
from completing
a business and
IT degree. The
Gift Republic
company offers a diverse range of gift
ideas which capture the imagination and
which are particularly relevant in a changing
world. Many of their gifts support charity
work and are environmentally friendly.
Says Sam: “We are really happy to have
been recognised in this way, it is a great
boost and the whole office is delighted.”
Personalised Classics, one of Gift
Republic’s latest winning lines, is an exciting
gift idea made possible by the company’s
innovative use of technology. It allows
people to tailor-make an all-time classic just
for them.
“We are always looking for ways of using
technology for customer service, managing
stock etc. It is vital for our business,
streamlining things and making us more
efficient,” explains Sam.
For further information log on to the
website www.giftrepublic.com.
giftfocus 69
entrepreneurs

Paul Gilbriath of
BannerBags is
another delighted
winner.
His company
has been trading
for just over two
years, originally
recycling banners
seen in Liverpool
to promote the
Liverpool Capital
of Culture, The company has continued to
recycle banners from numerous events and
advertising campaigns.
Bags are created largely from the
recycled banners and the webbing from
recycled car seat belts, ensuring there is
very little waste in the production process.
The company is primarily web-based.
“All these software tools are now
available for a small business, so we can play
with the big boys too,” he explains.
“We avail ourselves of the latest
technology, and modern technology cuts
down on waste as well, which is something
else we are very keen on.”
Visit the website www.bannerbags.com to
find out more.
Other winners included:
Samantha Hale – Advance Performance
(Peterborough)
Advance Performance is an independent,
award winning, family-owned and specialist
running store with technical products for
everyone who runs - whatever their age or
their ability.
70 giftfocus
BannerBags
Alaistair Mitchell and Andy McGloughlin
– Huddle (London)
Huddle founders believed that in-house
collaboration software was too expensive,
complicated and slow. To resolve these
issues and reduce the expense of couriers
and post, they set up Huddle which
delivers more efficient meetings, reduced
project timelines and seamless work with
customers and suppliers through shared
servers and websites.
Lawrence Mallinson – James White Drinks Ltd
(Ipswich, Suffolk)
James White Drinks Ltd is a thriving fruit
juice presser and bottler. It produces ranges
of classic and organic English apple and
pear juices and blends of elderflower, ginger,
carrot, raspberries and pomegranate. It
also makes Big Tom a spicy tomato juice
for which it was granted a Royal Warrant
by HM The Queen in 2002. The company
supplies an enormous range of customers
and has recently started making Beetroot
Juice, expanding on new health research.
Susan Cropper – Loop Knitting (London)
Loop has been a key player in the
resurgence of knitting in the UK. It was the
first shop to open in London that reflected
what was going on with knitting now. They
source yarns from all over the world as well
as a vast range of haberdashery, patterns
and knitting books. They also support
independent designers working in knit and
crochet by stocking their unique work.
To continue supporting small businesses
on the road to recovery, BT Business also
awarded a £10,000 business grant to
the Most Outstanding Entrepreneur. This
was won by Robert Matthams, founder
of Shipley, a company which helps
customers find cheap courier services by
matching them up with delivery companies
already making similar trips across the UK
& Europe.
Additional accolades were:
Young Entrepreneur – Fruit for the Office
Daniel Ox transformed his family’s
traditional fruit and veg stall in Piccadilly
Circus (London) into a thriving online
business. Fruit for the Office was the first
company in the UK to offer a specialised
fruit and veg delivery service to the office.
Female Entrepreneur – Buddi
Sara Murray set up Buddi after losing her
daughter in a supermarket, and it is now a
hugely successful company manufacturing
the world's smallest assisted GPS personal
trackers with emergency support.
Male Entrepreneur – Chemist Direct
Mitesh Soma set up Chemist Direct in
2007 with the help of his pharmacist wife.
Together they supply over 20,000 products
at the lowest possible prices, and also
process prescriptions.
Original Business Concept – Bompass
and Parr
Calling themselves the Jelly Mongers,
Sam Bompass and Harry Parr create fine
English jellies, design bespoke jelly moulds
and curate spectacular culinary events. g
christmas world

news round up
All the latest from The Giftware Association
72 giftfocus
The Giftware
Association
enjoys highest
membership
retention rate
for years
A recruitment
drive resulted in
around 60 new
members joining
The Giftware
Association in the final four months of
2009, including leading importers Joe
Davies and Coach House.
GA chief executive Isabel Martinson says
that despite a tough 12 months for the
gift and home industry – which has seen a
number of casualties – the association has
enjoyed its highest membership retention
rate for many years.
“We are very pleased that members
are recognising the importance of staying
connected with the rest of the industry
through The GA,” comments Isabel.
It has always aimed to sign up new
members at trade shows every September
as those suppliers joining by the end of that
month receive a five per cent discount on
their stand at the following Spring Fair.
Isabel continues: “What has been
different this year is that Louise Young, the
new managing director of Emap Connect
Home & Gift, kindly agreed to a request
from president of the British Jewellery,
Giftware and Finishing Federation, David
Metcalfe, to extend the discount deadline
until the end of 2009.
“The 2009 extension has allowed
people time for reflection and the chance
to review all our services. They obviously
concluded that it was an opportunity not
to be missed.”
GA doubles its
space at Spring
Fair International
The Giftware
Association will
occupy twice
as much space at February’s Spring Fair
International as it did in 2009.
The GA stand, the Gift of the Year house
and garden and the association’s VIP retail
lounge will all be brought together in Hall
9 at the NEC. The garden will now not only
be available to retail members – who will
also have their own private lounge area
– but to supplier members, too.
Gift of the Year sponsors will also be
made welcome in the house and garden,
which will feature winning and highly
commended products from the successful
2009 competition.
Gearing up for Gift
of the Year 2010
The Giftware
Association is again
looking for ‘talent
scouts’ at Spring
Fair who will alert it
to products they think worthy of inclusion
in the Gift of the Year 2010 competition.
Fashion Accessories is renamed Fashion
Jewellery and Accessories to encourage
more jewellery companies to enter, while
the other categories remain the same.
They are as follows: Collect It!; Home
Accessories; Card & Wrap; Body, Mind
& Soul; Fashion Jewellery & Accessories;
Kitchen & Dining; Under £10; Kids; Branded/
Character; Made in UK; Hot Novelty; Eco
Friendly; Outdoor Living; Premium/Luxury;
Stationery and Occasions.
Products launched from July 2009 are
eligible. Entering costs £30 + VAT for GA
members and £45 + VAT for non-members.
Each additional entry is charged at £25 +
VAT for GA members or £40 + VAT for
non-members. All companies entering must
have a UK based office.
Inch Blue GOTY winner 2009
Key dates: April 8 th , entry deadline; April
13 th -May 4 th (first round judging of online
entries by panel); May 7 th (call forward of
shortlisted product samples and all Card
& Wrap entries); May 27 th (second round
judging at The Giftware Association HQ,
Federation House, Birmingham).
All the event’s major sponsors from
2009 are supporting the 2010 competition
and The GA is delighted to welcome back
Clarion Events, whose Home & Gift brand
will sponsor the Under £10 category.

(Gift Focus Magazine and sister title
Attire Accessories are proud to be headline
sponsors of the competition for the second
year running. Don’t forget to drop by the
Gift of the Year house in Hall 9 at Spring
Fair International to pick up your copy of
both magazines.)
Goods being destroyed in ‘copycat’ case:
The UK Border Agency seized a container
being shipped to importer PM&PP after
being told that it contained basketware that
infringed the registered and unregistered
design rights of a GA member.
The goods, with an estimated value of
more than £66,000, are in the process of
being destroyed.
“We were alerted to this infringement
when we saw copies of our items
on PM&PP’s stand at Home & Gift in
Harrogate in July,” says George Krygier,
managing director of London-based The
Old Basket Supply Limited (t o b s).
“The products were temporarily taken
off the stand after a visit by GA Copywatch
lawyer James Fry of Eversheds. They also
featured in the PM&PP catalogues sent out
to customers and were being offered by
sales people on the road.
“Friends and suppliers in China traced
where the goods had been made and in
which container they had been shipped.
Through our London based patent
attorneys, Williams Powell, we notified The
UK Border Agency who seized the goods.”
After The Old Basket Supply Limited
(t o b s) pledged not to issue proceedings,
PM&PP – which has premises in Hampshire
– gave undertakings that it would no longer
import, sell, offer or advertise for sale
or use any of the products in question.
Following this, PM & PP then agreed to
have the infringing goods destroyed, at their
cost, by The UK Border Agency.
George Krygier adds: “The UK Border
Agency in Southampton has advised us that
they will now be closely monitoring all of
PM&PP’s shipments for the next 12 months
and beyond at our discretion.
“I hope that this case will give heart to
fellow GA members and other suppliers
who have suffered at the hands of copycats
who copy their products in which they have
intellectual property rights. Our persistence
paid off and this should be a warning to
others who might be tempted to go down
the same route.”
Chris Eubank lined
up to appear at
‘away day’
Former world
super middleweight
boxing champion
Chris Eubank will be
one of the keynote
speakers at The
Giftware Association’s AGM and ‘away day’
in Birmingham on Thursday, 6 th May 2010.
The retired boxer – now a motivational
speaker – agreed to GA chief executive
Isabel Martinson’s request to appear at the
event after the two met by chance on the
London Underground.
Says Isabel: “Chris recognises that The
GA is a not-for-profit organisation, which
encourages new designers and start-ups,
and has generously agreed to waive his
usual fee.”
The AGM will see the chairmanship of
The GA pass from Mike Burgess, managing
director of Parlane International, to Michael
Sweeney, joint managing director of
Worldwide Co. and Natural Products.
News in brief
The GA is exploring ways of widening its
reach through business-oriented social
networking sites.
Seminars about agents and selling skills
are among those being planned by the GA
as part of its 2010 programme. g
Further information
For the GA log onto www.ga-uk.org
giftfocus 73
the ga

spring into
2010
New, new, new is the theme for
Spring Fair International 2010. New
year, new decade, new innovations
plus countless new lines, offering a
welcome boost for product-hungry
retailers looking for the next big thing.
Picture courtesy of Ashleigh & Burwood
Hall 4, stand G32
In brief
show Spring Fair International
where NEC, Birmingham
when 7 th -11 th February, 2010
website www.springfair.com
opening hours Sun-Wed 9am-6pm
Thurs 9am-4pm
(Volume halls open one day earlier on Sat 6 th Feb.
from 10am-5pm)
admission Open to trade buyers and
suppliers only. Entry is free for those who have
pre-registered at www.springfair.com, otherwise
cost is £30
spring fair
giftfocus 75

76 giftfocus
3
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������ ����� ���� ��� ��� �����
������������������
4 5
2
1
6
KEY
HALLS
1 Seasons Club & International Lounge 1 Volume Gift & Home
2 Press Office
2 Kitchen, Dining & Housewares
3 Cook Live
3 Greetings & Stationery
4 Seminar Theatre (Hall 3)
Art & Framing
5 License It!
Spotlight on Contemporary Gifts
6 Fresh!
4 Contemporary Gifts & Collectibles
7 New Product Display
5 Toys & Party
8 Gift of the Year Showhouse and
Festive, Floral & Fireworks
garden and GA Retail Lounge
6 Outdoor Living
9
10
The Pandora Catwalk Café
The Jewellery Show Seasons Club
Product Finding Points
Seating Area
FREE Water Station
6,7+9 Gift & Home
8 The Summerhouse
10 Totally DIY/Tools/Secure
17+18 The Jewellery Show
Circle Line Bus Stops
19 Fashion Jewellery & Accessories
Fast Track Entrance -
19+20 Wellbeing
Badge Holders only
20 Gift & Home
Heritage & Souvenirs
7
8
2
10
9

Spring Fair International is the UK’s biggest
trade show, incorporating nine product
categories, including gifts, homewares, greeting
cards, toys, jewellery and art and framing.
Some 60,000 buyers with a combined
budget of £12bn are expected to do business
with 2,800 suppliers - 100 more than in 2009
– offering a staggering 250,000 new products.
The Creative Britain logo has been revived
for Spring Fair 2010 to highlight companies
with products designed in the UK and available
for export. Show organiser Emap Connect
Home & Gift believes the time is right to
fly the Union Flag and feed the appetite of
overseas visitors who, because of favourable
exchange rates, will be seeking out well
designed British products.
Apart from maximising crossover buying
opportunities, with initiatives designed to
highlight new products from all sectors to
retailers, there has been a campaign targeting
international visitors and key overseas buyers.
As well as scores of top European gift and
home exhibitors, Spring Fair International 2010
will see the return of the Brands of China
European showcase.
Some 231 exhibitors across the NEC, the
largest ever number of suppliers from the Far
East, will offer gifts, stationery, kitchen utensils,
bags and suitcases, housewares, toys, textiles
and garments, garden equipment and small
electrical appliances.
We speak to Louise Young, managing
director of Emap Connect Home & Gift, to
find out more …
What is your
top priority, main
hope and worst
fear for the 2010
edition?
We have listened
to buyers, trade
bodies and our
exhibitors to
deliver the Spring
Fair that they
want. That is
our top priority
and our hope is that retail sales continue to
improve each month into 2010 and beyond.
My worst fear? Trying to be everywhere at
once on site and making sure we have enough
time to see all the people that we have
promised to see!
What important lessons have been learnt
from the past?
We now have a different approach – a new
way of doing things – with the focus of our
organisation being entirely on the customer.
Our business is based on bringing buyer and
seller together. Everything we do needs to
maximise that opportunity for retailer and
supplier. I really do believe that Spring Fair
belongs to everyone in the home and gift
industry and we must listen to what retailers,
suppliers and trade organisations are telling
us. It’s great to have the industry working with
us. We have listened hard and as a result
implemented changes.
What are the key points you have taken
action on, based on feedback from exhibitors
and visitors?
We are always striving to give exhibitors
the best possible return on their investment
from the show – and to make the buying
experience more fruitful and enjoyable.
That sometimes means reacting to changing
markets by moving exhibitors so that they
benefit from cross over buying opportunities
and new buying patterns.
For instance, after consulting with the
industry we have moved Home, Gifts and
Interiors’ suppliers to the heart of the show,
while the Art & Framing zone will be adjacent
to Greetings and Stationery in Hall 3. Party is
moving from Hall 3 to Hall 5, where it will sit
alongside Toys. We have also comprehensively
edited and changed the presentation of
spring fair
giftfocus 77

The Jewellery Show to represent the high
production values of this sector.
I am pleased to say that exhibitors and
buyers have welcomed these initiatives.
We have also responded to requests for
more rest areas and there will be a large,
new seating area in the link between Halls
8 & 9 and another in Hall 3. Newness for
buyers is key as they are always keen to hunt
out that new best seller – again we will be
making it easier to find new products and new
exhibitors at the show. Making information
regarding the show more accessible too
– springfair.com is now available on mobiles.
The show catalogue will also be given out free
to buyers for the first time.
Listening to exhibitors regarding improving
their return on their investment, we have
introduced many initiatives such as reducing
the entry cost on Autumn Fair and Spring Fair
by 10% and 9% respectively. We have frozen
our rates for Spring Fair 2010, Autumn Fair
2010 and have just announced another rate
freeze for Spring Fair in 2011. The cost of
electrics is a key issue for our exhibitors and
by working with a single contractor we have
secured 10% off electrics and electrical mains
effective from April 2010. The move, driven
by Emap’s focus on customer service, will help
exhibitors see greater return on investment
by offering savings as well as experiencing
enhanced levels of service.
To help exhibitors determine their ROI, we
have also developed an ROI calculator. It can
be used before and after the show to work
out targets for the event and performance
78 giftfocus
during it. Simple to use, it’s available on the
web or as an iPhone application. We have
also launched a buyer calculator which helps
visitors work out how much time they need
to spend at the Spring Fair. With so many
suppliers and new products to see many
visitors underestimate how long it takes to
cover the show. This facility is available on
springfair.com
What major changes have you initiated?
New for 2010 is the Pandora Catwalk Café, a
dedicated jewellery catwalk and central café
that will sit at the heart of The Jewellery Show
in Halls 17 and 18.
Also new in Hall 3 is Fresh!, a beautifully
edited collection of gifts, greeting cards and
jewellery, while Spotlight on Contemporary
Gifts is being launched to satisfy the ever
increasing buyer interest in new design led
products and companies. There will also be a
new section dedicated to stationery.
And the new-look Kitchen, Dining &
Housewares (Hall 2) has been re-edited to
optimise the buying experience for retailers.
What sectors have seen particular growth?
Design-led gifts, general gifts, fashion
accessories and toys – parents appear to
continue to indulge their children regardless
of the economy. Gifts continue to be strong
as we continue to be a nation of givers. Plans
for Spring Fair 2011 already allow more
expansion space for these sectors.
How important are start-up and fledgling
companies to the future of Spring Fair?
They are vital to Spring Fair. Newer, smaller
businesses are the creative lifeblood of the
industry and I am delighted that our recently
introduced initiatives have resulted in some
500 suppliers taking stands at the show for
the first time. Again, initiatives have been
introduced to help new exhibitors, with a
support package that includes our Return
on Investment booklet, an on-site ‘meet the
buyers and press’ reception and, to encourage
and reward their return for the second show,
5% off stands.
With the dawning of a new decade, how
would you like to see the show evolving over
the coming years?
Spring Fair will start to have a much more
cosmopolitan and international feel – it will
present Europe’s most influential brands
and future best sellers – clearer editing will
help buyers find current suppliers and new
products. It will be accessible to all levels
of buyers and satisfy all price points in an
environment that is inspirational but relaxing
and comfortable to do business. And by
working with the industry and listening to our
customers, we will give them an unrivalled
experience and platform from which to do
business. Watch this space.
Read on for our bumper show preview
showcasing hot, new products.

Handmade Leather Animals
MO-HOme
Now incorporating the Besmo & MO-HOme collections
Spring Fair NEC - Hall 6 Stand A38
First chance to see the Tilnar Art, Besmo & MO-HOme
collections for 2010
High Quality Fair Trade Gifts & Home Furnishings
Email: sales@tilnarart.co.uk
Tel: 01277 362 815 or 07740 946 518
www.tilnarart.co.uk www.besmo.com
Recognised BAFTS
Fair Trade Importer
Lobi Gaming Chairs
Recycled Handbags
Handmade Wood Carvings
Recycled Freedom Chickens

Exhibitor profiles
Beamfeature
Hall 1, Stand G49/H50
Tel: +44 (0)1618 659 333
Web: www.beamfeature.co.uk
Beamfeature are major suppliers of quality, innovative
household textiles and more. Their range covers almost
every room in the house from the bedroom and bathroom
to the lounge, kitchen and nursery.
Products include duvets sets and bedspreads, oven gloves
and aprons, rugs, curtains, cot quilts and bumpers, as well as
beach towels, picnic rugs and other items for leisure use.
Own branding and designs are also available from initial
concept to final delivery.
Boyz Toys
Hall 1, Stand D50
(Also Hall 5, Stand J47)
Tel: +44 (0)1530 834 730
Web: www.boyztoys.com
Chinese flying lanterns and jelly bracelets were the
fastest selling individual products in 2009 for Boyz Toys.
With over nine product ranges, and increasing all
the time from fishing to travelling, outdoor lines to car
accessories, Boyz Toys is building its presence on the UK
and European imports market fast.
80 giftfocus
HALL 1
Keel Toys
Hall 1, Stand J10/H09
Tel: +44 (0)1233 506 363
Web: www.keeltoys.com
At Keel Toys, 2010 is going to be a “Turtley Awesome” year!
In six vivid colours, cute turtles feature hibiscus detailing creating a vibrant
collection of toys and stationery. Fashionista “WAGS” are four pooch buddies
with style and essential bling, while novelty and toy concepts include, loveable
dinosaurs Xtinctables and Ice Age animals, which come complete with their
own display plinths for maximum retail presence. Classic Keel ranges of dogs,
cats, teddy bears, wild life, pocket money and nursery lines have all been
developed and improved to create a comprehensive soft toy range. All are
created in the UK by Keel Toys own design team.
Candlelight Products Ltd
Hall 1, Stand K45
(Also Hall 7, Stand C4/D3 & C3)
Tel: +44 (0)1709 723 000
Web: www.candlelight.co.uk
The spring 2010 gifts & home collection from
Candlelight is packed with ideas for every room.
The pistachio and cream collection brings
a relaxing atmosphere around the home with
organic shapes, emerald glass vases, wooden
figurines and scented gel candles; while soft
furnishings in muted greens and chocolate
undertones bring the look together.
Combine sky blue tonal vases and soft white
textured ornaments for a stunning contrast,
enhanced by teal glass accessories. A butterfly
motif acts as a key feature and subtle link across
the range, while co-ordinated lanterns and
basketware complete this fresh and crisp look.
Key elements also include a striking blend of tonal bronze and cream, with curvy
lines, reactive glaze and metallic finishes, with red accents and quirky figurines to
create a rich palette of textures and warmth.
Candlelight also unveils an inspiring collection of home fragrances and scented
candles to complement every room and create a special feel to any occasion.

One of the seven ranges
new at Spring Fair 2010
See us in Hall 4, Stand E5
T: 01635 297911 F: 01635 299237 E: info@clerevision.co.uk W: www.clerevision.co.uk

Kitchen, Dining & Housewares is the UK’s
largest kitchen and dining show and will bring
together some of the biggest and best known
names in the industry.
There will be 300 suppliers and brands
showcasing housewares, glassware and
tabletop products, as well as outdoor living,
speciality foods and dining décor.
The show has been carefully re-edited for
2010. Roz McGuiness, Emap Connect Home
& Gift event director explains: “We want to
simplify the buying experience for retailers, so
the Hall 2 layout will resemble that of a retail
store. Products will be grouped by category.
Tableware and glassware lines will be displayed
in some aisles, while houseware items will
be exhibited together in other areas. Kitchen
preparation products will be found in the
central area.”
Waterford Wedgwood Royal Doulton
(WWRD) will also be back after choosing
the show as its first trade launch platform.
WWRD will host a ‘by invitation’ tea party
during the fair. Other big hitters Villeroy
& Boch and Churchill China will also be
exhibiting this year.
Says Patrick Heeley, managing director,
Villeroy & Bock: “As a brand with strong
presence in all global markets, we consider
carefully which trade fairs bring
added value. As far as the UK is
concerned, Spring Fair has
always held a strong
position as the
82 giftfocus
HALL 2
turning up the heat
Picture courtesy of Villeroy & Boch
Hall 2 Stand C05/D06
major launch pad for new products in this
market, bringing together a great range of
suppliers and buyers. 2010 is no exception
– we shall be there revealing a bumper crop
of new products, from chic dining to funky
accessories.”
Suppliers at the show will have the
opportunity to come face to face with buyers
from Lakeland – the UK’s largest specialist
kitchenware retailer. ‘The Next Big Thing’
initiative offers 15-minute slots to pitch new
ideas for inclusion in the range.
Matthew Canwell, Lakeland’s director
of buying, says: “We are happy to consider
ideas from initial concept stage through to a
product in production. All you need is the idea
and the passion to get up and sell it to us.”
New to Kitchen & Dining will be Cook Live!
Successfully launched at last year’s Autumn Fair
International, it is an exciting introduction to
the gift and home calendar.
A large working
kitchen will
showcase
the new
products and equipment being sold by
exhibitors, with live demonstrations of their
uses and benefits. Bakeware, cookware,
gadgets and small electrical items, along with
tableware for service, will all be featured.
Scheduled to appear is celebrity chef
Raymond Blanc, owner of Michelin-starred Le
Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons. Star of BBC’s The
Restaurant, he will be demonstrating product
on behalf of Chomette Dornberger, the
kitchen and dining ware specialist.
Also making an appearance for Denby will
be James Martin of Ready Steady Cook, Junior
Master Chef and Light Lunch fame, who was
also recently on Strictly Come Dancing.
Cook Live! is fully endorsed by BHETA and
BHF and will be a rolling feature of Spring Fair
throughout the five days. Admission is free.

Eddingtons
Hall 2, Stand F61/G62
Tel: +44 (0)1488 686 572
Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk
Eddingtons will be introducing a host of new products
including the Make My Day baby bottle warmer - a
stylish and innovative gift solution for the busy parent.
The new baby bottle warmer is designed to warm
baby’s bottle or food whilst on the go. Click the top of
the pouch to produce heat that will warm baby’s food
to the correct temperature. Once home, the pouch can
be warmed in a saucepan of water to re-activate the
heating agent - ready for the next use.
The two piece set comprises an inner warming
pouch and
stylish cow print
thermal, outer
pouch. All Make
My Day products
are presented in
12 piece mixed
colour displays.
Creative Tops Ltd
Hall 2, Stand B41/C42
Tel: +44 (0)1536 207 710
Web: www.creative-tops.com
Six new mug designs join the award winning V&A collection
of fine bone china mugs from Creative Tops.
The range was developed by William Morris’ design
company, Morris and Co, and includes fresh patterns and
flat, naturalistic flower and foliage designs. Choose from
Wild Tulip, Anemone (in two colourways), Daisy (in two
colourways) and finally Hammersmith. Each design has
been lovingly reworked from original pieces of artwork
held at the V&A. The palace shaped mugs also have an
elegant gold metallic rim and are presented in beautifully
printed gift boxes.
84 giftfocus
HALL 2
Cream Supplies
Hall 2, Stand H61
Tel: +44 (0)8452 263 024
Web: www.creamsupplies.co.uk
The mypressi TWIST Espresso
Maker is a ground breaking,
portable device, according to its US
manufacturer, exclusively available in
the UK from Cream Supplies.
Because the TWIST is powered
by a small gas cartridge, within
its handle, it requires no external
power source and can be used virtually anywhere – at home, in the office, in a
hotel room or outdoors. All that is needed is some ground coffee or standard
ESE coffee pods and hot water.
The TWIST produces one double (or two single) espressos in just 20-30
seconds. Each recyclable gas cartridge is sufficient for eight single espresso shots
and replacements are available from Cream Supplies. The TWIST recently won
the coveted ‘Best New Product’ award for 2009/2010 from the Speciality Coffee
Association of America.
Dunoon Ceramics Limited
Hall 2, Stand A02
Tel: +44 (0)1785 817 414
website: www.dunoonmugs.co.uk
Dunoon introduces a set of six designs on
its popular Nevis shape fine bone china
mugs featuring well known traditional breeds
including cows, sheep and hens.
On their tall Glencoe shape fine bone
china mug two designs of comical characters
playing golf and rugby are being introduced.
Dunoon is continuing with its ‘How To’
theme by introducing How to Survive a Day at the Office, a design by Cherry
Denman. An ideal gift for an office colleague.
La Cafetière
Hall 2, Stand E07/F08
Tel: +44 (0)1352 717 555
Web: www.lacafetiere.com
The new Signature collection is the result of a
creative relationship between La Cafetière and
Nick Munro.
Based on original Nick Munro pewter designs, La
Cafetière will be presenting the new stainless steel
editions of Signature.
These include the Bistro pot, the ultimate in chic
coffee drinking, which takes its inspiration from the
penguin, a ‘typically unique’ Nick Munro theme.
The collection of teapots and coffeemakers
combines traditional detailing with a flawless
stainless steel finish.

86 giftfocus
DIVINE
The Ollipop collection
The Ollipop Collection is Pop Culture based on the
bohemian revival style and 1970s flower power. Featuring
semi-precious stones, vintage glass, graphics and enamels
along with retro metals, the collection has hundreds of
styles in the most exciting colours imaginable.
See us at Spring Fair, Hall 18, Stand B06
DIVINE
Phone: 020 8874 0616 Email: sales@justdivine.co.uk
Web: www.justdivine.co.uk
HALL 2
Simplehuman
Hall 2, Stand G21/H22
Tel: +44 (0)1491 875 974
Web: www.simplehuman.co.uk
Simplehuman believe that even
the little things in life deserve
good design.
That’s why they’ve designed a range of bamboo bathroom
accessories made from natural, eco-friendly bamboo and rustproof
polished chrome. The natural bamboo is sealed with a waterproof
coating to make it extremely durable and each product is covered by a
five-year warranty. The range includes a toothbrush holder with tumbler,
tissue box holder, soap dish, soap pump, cotton swab holder, and a mini
square open bin.
Lifestyle Products Ltd
Hall 2, Stand C22/B21
Tel: +44 (0)1923 711 832
Web: www.life-style.co.uk
Lifestyle’s bright green frog
will soon be making meal
times fun for a whole new
generation. The range
includes an eye-catching
frog shaped melamine
children’s tableware set and
a matching character mug, sold separately.
Villeroy & Boch UK Ltd
Hall 2, Stand C05/D06
Tel: +44 (0)208 871 0011
Web: www.villeroy-boch.co.uk
Villeroy & Boch introduces a host of new collections for Spring Fair
2010 including tableware, cutlery, stemware and accessories. Exciting
new products to be launched include NewWave Caffé Colours of
Arabia, Samarkand and Farmhouse Chic.
Colours of Arabia is a limited edition selection of Arabian
inspired designs for 2010. The four contemporary designs take their
inspiration from the Arabic world, drawing on the rich array of
colours, architecture, patterns and landscapes, depicting graphic stars
and floral mosaics with a kaleidoscope of bright colours. The new
range includes NewWave espresso cups, cappuccino cups, coffee
cups and mugs with the signature sweeping handles. Matching party
plate saucers are also offered.
Other highlights include the new Samarkand design, a luxurious
fine bone china tableware
collection available in ivory and
gold and white and platinum.
Samarkand continues the ethnic
theme depicting a delicate
eastern inspired motif.

Royal Scot Crystal
Hall 2, Stand B19/C20
Tel: +44 (0)208 508 2435
Web: www.royalscotcrystal.com
Royal Scot Crystal will be showing
its ever-growing portfolio of wine
suites, which are hand cut and elegantly packaged – encompassing
classic, traditional and contemporary designs. Due to demand for
inexpensive but high quality giftware ranges, Royal Scot has introduced
an impressive range of new London and Sapphire giftware items.
The Denby Pottery Company Ltd
Hall 2, Stand C29/D30
Tel: +44 (0)1773 740 700
Web: www.denby.co.uk
Denby has captured the trend
for purple along with toning
‘repeat patterns’. However, the
popularity of ‘white’ tableware
still hasn’t faded with the
continued desire to recreate
restaurant dining at home.
These trends are reflected
in Denby’s new launches this spring – ‘Amethyst’, James Martin Dine
Squares and Serve, plus a new bone china range.
The curvy shapes of the Amethyst range create a contemporary
and sophisticated surface to present the glossy purple glaze to great
effect. An elegant range of glassware complements the range.
The clean, simple lines of Denby's new bone china tableware deliver
a modern range with an off symmetry effect on some of the key
pieces. The range includes 18 essential dining pieces with glassware and
textiles from China by Denby to complement the collection.
Five new square place setting items join the James Martin Dine &
Serve range and there are also five new serve pieces.
Poole Pottery
Hall 2, Stand B21/C22
Tel: +44 (0)1782 525 415
Web: www.poolepottery.co.uk
Contemporary forms and
traditional values are fused together
with new collections for tableware,
lifestyles and interior accessories
from Poole Pottery.
Teatime Teasers is the title of
a new exclusive mug collection
inspired by quizzes, games and teasers designed by award winning
British designer Andrew Tanner. Each mug includes a different cryptic
quote.Poole Pottery also unveils a new cream ware collection inspired
by the Dorset coastline titled ‘Kelp’ whilst the collectable Living Glaze
family grows to include new designs titled ‘Fantasy’ and ‘Blossom’.
giftfocus 87

Britain is the creative hub of the global
greetings card industry and Spring Fair is its
annual highlight.
The 2010 edition will see leading publishers
and designers showcasing the world’s largest
collection of greetings cards, as well as gift
wrap and stationery in Hall 3.
Increasing numbers of suppliers are seeking
to grow their businesses by diversifying into
gift shops, garden centres and other outlets.
The Cards for Gift Shops area of Hall 3,
which caters specifically for smaller and niche
publishers, has proved a great success since its
launch in 2006.
The new Spotlight on Contemporary
Gifts feature will include both large and small
companies and has attracted a host of topnotch
suppliers.
This feature will be complemented by
DesignGap, in its new position in Hall 3, also
home to a new Gift Stationery section.
90 giftfocus
Juicy Lucy
Gelaskins
HALL 3
Event manager Sarah Charlton says: “We
have listened to the greeting card industry,
which has told us that it wants to see more
contemporary gifts in Hall 3 because there is
now so much crossover buying.”
One of the most exciting new initiatives for
the greetings sector at Spring Fair International
is Fresh! a beautifully edited collection of gifts,
greeting cards and jewellery. The Fresh! area
has been specifically designed to replicate the
look and feel of a high-end gift shop.
Exhibitors here will automatically be entered
for the Fresh!Awards – Best New Product,
Best New Company and Best of Fresh! –
which will be announced at an informal drinks
gathering at 6pm on the Sunday of the show
in the Fresh! area.
Keep up to date with Fresh Exhibitions
on www.twitter.com/FreshSpringFair and
Facebook or alternatively visit the website
www.freshexhibitions.com.
Scott Inness
XDModo

92 giftfocus
FRESH!
Juicy Lucy Designs
Hall 3, Stand Z70
Tel: +44 (0)8445 867 477
Web: www.juicylucydesigns.co.uk
New card collections for 2010
include fab family cards and
amazing age cards.
Lucy has taken the essence of
some of her most popular cards
and created a range for relatives
featuring vibrant new patterns,
special sentiments and magical
fairy images. From acrobatic fairies
for little girls to pirates, builders
and astronauts for little boys, her
latest additions inject a whole
new style to her popular age
cards. Now featuring age cards for
big girls and boys too.
New gift collections include Juicy Lucy chocolate with a choice of
eight different bars using their best selling designs, suitable for Valentine’s
Day, Mother's Day, birthdays or just I love you moments.
The pocket collection includes fairy tattoos, key rings, pocket mirrors,
necklaces, mobile charms and badges.
The Flower Stork
Hall 3, Stand Z26
Tel: +44 (0)1495 303 030
Web: www.theflowerstork.com
After a three year break,
babywear bouquet company
The Flower Stork is returning
to Spring Fair as part of the
new Fresh area to showcase
its innovative baby bouquets
gift range.
“We are really excited to
be part of this new concept
for Spring Fair, retailers are
always on the lookout for ‘fresh’
ideas and this is the perfect
opportunity to show off our
amazing bouquets,” says founder
and creative director Tania James Price.
The company has enjoyed success despite the recession and has
continued to grow and develop new lines.
Their Celebration Baby Cake (pictured) is filled with baby essentials
including bibs, socks and bodysuits, finished with a gorgeously soft
fleece blanket. The cakes are available in sugar pink, cornflower blue
and classic white to celebrate new arrivals.

Velvet Olive
Hall 3, Stand Z38
Tel: +44 (0)8452 577 701
Web: www.velvetolive.co.uk
Spring Fair will see the
return of the Letters from
Velvet Olive, now with even
more occasions.
The new collection
will feature 24 designs all
printed using an elegant colour palette onto cream, textured board with
heavily embossed elements using hand sculptured dies and finished with
cream pearls. Sized at 150mm square the new designs are a twist on
the old favourite range which was taking a rest from the market last
year in preparation for the big January re-launch.
The Write Gift
Hall 3, Stand Z62
Tel: +44 (0)1670 505 785
Web: www.thewritegift.co.uk
The Write Gift is launching a
new pony product within the
Sammy Jo range at Spring Fair.
The company offers a
range of celebration gifts that
allow the customer to give an
extra personal touch to every
present by signing their own, or a group message on them.
The pony is made of a soft cotton fabric and has striped patches
on its body. He joins the five existing products, which provide an ideal
personalised gift to help celebrate any occasion for any age.
The pony is supplied with a fabric pen and gift bag.
Laura Sherratt Designs
Hall 3, Stand Z46
Tel: +44 (0)1538 385 254
Web: www.laurasherrattdesigns.co.uk
Laura Sherratt Designs will be
exhibiting for the first time at
Spring Fair 2010, with an array of
new and exciting card collections
including a range of luxury cards
focusing on dictionary definitions,
debuting at the show.
All cards in this new range
feature pretty lace, crystals and
other sumptuous embellishments, providing a touch of simple elegance.
There are 12 designs in the range covering a variety of occasions.
Cards measure 120x120 mm and come complete with colour coordinating
envelopes and cello bag wrapping.
Spring Fair
Stand
3Z26
Award Winning New Baby Gift Range
Beautiful Baby Clothes Bouquets
NEW 2010 range now available
No Minimum Order - On-line Ordering
www.thefl owerstork.com
email: info@thefl owerstork.com
tel: 01495 303030
contact us
for a free
sample
giftfocus 93

Berni Parker Designs
Hall 3, Stand Z18
Tel: +44 (0)1299 266 831
Web: www.berniparker
designs.com
Berni is extending her
range of “Ladies Who
Love Life” everyday
greetings cards by adding
six new retro style ladies
complemented by new
gift mugs, coffee cups and
tray sets from Portmeirion and new crosstitch patterns
from Bothy Threads.
The successful “Whispers on Wings” stationery and
ceramic range of giftware recently launched by Junction 18
will have additions to the “Little Whispers” nurseryware
and a new range of Vintage Whispers fairy cards will be
released with new stationery and gifts including note books,
photo albums and mugs.
94 giftfocus
Allihopa Ltd
Hall 3, Stand Z68
Tel: +44 (0)1792 361 251
Web: www.allihopa.co.uk
Allihopa create greeting cards and giftwrap for the
design conscious with collections that mix British
eccentricity with Scandinavian cool for all occasions.
Allihopa will be showcasing its primary collections
Merry Berry, Faraway Tree and Sweet + Pea at
Spring Fair. A mixture of locally sourced offset printed
products and elements of traditional letterpress.
‘Merry Berry’ is a festive collection with a strong
Scandinavian feel. The Christmas range is a mixture of
jolly robins, snowflakes, baubles and hearts creating
a world of festive cheer! The four greeting cards in
the Merry Berry range are printed by hand on 100
per cent cotton in their studio using a traditional
letterpress. Sized 125x125mm the one-colour
letterpress card comes with brown ribbed kraft
envelope, individually cello wrapped. The collection also
includes giftwrap and letterpress gift tags.
FRESH!
Two Little Boys Ltd
Hall 3, Stand Z52
Tel: +44 (0)208 400 3606
Web: www.2littleboys.co.uk
The classic card game of Snap takes on
a fresh style twist in a new line from Two
Little Boys.
‘Christmas’, ‘Flowers’ and ‘In French’ are
three new titles of Snap being launched
by the company at Spring Fair 2010.
Firm believers that children shouldn’t
have to put up with bad design, just
because they are children, the people at
2LB have plundered founder Sarah Watt’s
personal photo library for fabulous images
to use on the playing cards.
Not only great for keeping the kids
amused, they’re gorgeous enough to stick
up on the wall as well.
Laura Darrington Design
Hall 3, Stand Z24
Tel: +44 (0)1162 849 660
Web: www.lauradarrington.co.uk
Laura Darrington Design will be
showing off its latest award winning
collections at Spring Fair.
The main focus will be on the
new ‘masculine’ collection, plus
everyday additions to the everpopular
Life & Love collection, not
to mention new ranges for Christmas 2010.
The last two years have proved to be busy for the small publisher, with its range
almost doubling in size plus winning prestigious Henries awards two years running
for Most Promising Young Designer 2008 and Best Spring Collection 2009. They are
set to continue building their collection throughout 2010.
Blue Eyed Sun
Hall 3, Stand Z06
Tel: +44 (0)1273 823 003
Web: www.blueeyedsun.co.uk
Handmade card specialists Blue Eyed Sun
have launched a selection of eye catching
everyday cards for men, hand glittered
and printed on quality textured board.
The range is called World’s Greatest and
contains 12 designs in total covering all
major occasions, relations and loved ones.
All the designs are sized overall at
160mm square and all cards come cellowrapped
with a coloured envelope.

The Flower Stork Hall 3 Stand Z26
96 giftfocus
Scott Inness Hall 3 Stand Z42
Lesser Spotted Images Hall 3 Stand Z02
Scott Inness specialise in creating artistically designed gift and homeware collections offering quality
products inspired by their imaginative and bold use of striking colour.
Their three gorgeous collections will be added to in 2010 with additional colour ranges, new product
lines and new designs! New additions include fabulous tableware and soft furnishings. Must-have award
winning contemporary design using their own unique visual blend of old with new! Products made in the
UK. Tel: Jill Henderson 07753 295 073 or Gill Hastings 07515 401 763 Email: sales@scottinness.com
www.scottinness.com
Lesser Spotted Images is marking its Spring Fair debut in Fresh with the launch of a new range of cards
- Lesser Spotted America. Their inimitable mix of quality photography and humour is represented in 12 colour
images, featuring road signs to places such as Dinosaur, Jackpot, Sunbeam and Contact. A new four panel
greeting card range spelling out twisted sentiments like ‘Clench, Slack Bottom, Longsplatt, Foulness’ in UK
village signs is also revealed!
Tel: 07530 311 378 Email: info@lesserspotted.com www.lesserspotted.com
Dressed2Drink Ltd Hall 3 Stand Z60
Come and take a look at the latest designs from the dressed2drink bottle jacket range. With designs for
Valentine’s Day , Mother’s day & Father’s day plus new age designs and humour, there is something to suit every
occasion a bottle of wine, Champagne or spirits would be given for.
At only £2.99 retail and merchandising options including 12, 16 & 32 pocket displays, the bottle jackets offer
a fun and quirky alternative to giftwrap or bags. Tel: 07913 447 091 Email: sales@dressed2drink.co.uk
www.dressed2drink.co.uk
Choosing a new baby gift range is now a piece of cake. The award winning range of Fairy Cakes and Baby
Clothes Bouquets from The Flower Stork are a quirky twist on the traditional new baby celebratory flowers.
Combining the beauty of flowers with essential items of baby clothes these stunning gifts make an unusual
but practical gift for new parents, maternity gifts and baby showers and create a gorgeous in-store display.
Bouquets are handcrafted in the UK and contain 100% cotton baby clothes. Forget fresh flowers this is a
delightful gift any new mum would be thrilled to receive. Visit The Flower Stork at Spring Fair to be the first to
see their new range of ‘Sweet Beginnings’ for 2010. Tel: 01495 303 030 www.theflowerstork.com
Juicy Lucy Designs Hall 3 Stand Z70
Juicy Lucy Designs combination of outrageously cute hand drawn images, quirky humour and heartfelt messages
has produced one of the most successful and enduring independent brands of the decade.
It is the ultimate girlie brand - unashamedly pink, cheeky but cute and perfect for saying just what you want
to those you love. From cards and joyful jotters to pretty pocket mirrors and chocolates you are sure to radiate
happiness and joy where ever you go with Juicy Lucy’s magical product range..!
With two award nominations and a whole host of exciting new products we say ‘if you want to tell someone
you love them - send in the fairies!!!’ Tel: 0844 586 7477 www.juicylucydesigns.com

Willow and Company Greetings
Hall 3, Stand S43
Tel: +44 (0)1316 656 677
Web: www.willow
greetings.co.uk
Hearts for Angels
is a new range of
angel figurines from
Willow and Company
Greetings.
There are four
figurines in the range
with 24 heartfelt
messages to choose
from.
Each angel is
beautifully boxed with
gift tag attached.
Photowrap
Hall 3, Stand Q60
Tel: +44 (0)1364 644 646
Web: www.photowrap.co.uk
At Spring Fair 2002 Greg Shepherd launched Photowrap
with 10 gift wrap designs. Since then he has increased his
range to 52, all with matching tags and some with matching
greeting cards, as well as a range of more scenic cards.
His varied designs feature fruits, flowers or sweets;
everyday objects such as teddies, buttons or balloons; as
well as an autumn and Christmas range. The paper and
card is part recycled, part FSC and printed with vegetable
inks by a local and FSC accredited printer.
He is also planning to launch a range of gift bags at this
year’s show.
The new wrap designs for 2010 are Marbles, Plant Pots,
Umbrellas, Flying Saucers (the sweet variety) and Daffodils.
The daffodil design is helping to raise funds for Marie Curie
Cancer Care, with 5p donated to the charity for every
sheet supplied.
HALL 3
Wecommunic8 Ltd
Hall 3, Stand H32
Tel: +44 (0)1604 696 903
Web: www.wecommunic8.com
A new exhibition is planned for 2010
showcasing the beauty and diversity of
the British Isles. Wecommunic8 Limited
is proud to be associated with the Royal
Geographical Society (with IBG). Over 100
contemporary aerial images of Britain will
be shown in a new and highly accessible way - as a large scale, 24-hour street gallery.
The new range complements the new exhibition; comprising eight packs of
notecards featuring photographs from the company’s “Britain From the Air” portfolio;
beautifully themed aerial shots of the nation’s coastline/Cumbria/Scotland/ Wales/
Ancient Britain/Fairs and Festivals/London and Yorkshire.
Each pack contains eight notecards; four designs complete with eight sky blue
recycled envelopes, packed into a wallet.
Cavania Cards
Hall 3, Stand T33
Tel: +44 (0)1895 824 899
Web: www.cavania.com
Cavania launches into spring 2010 with an exciting expansion into the high-end
gift market.
With years of experience producing stunning greeting cards Cavania felt the
time was right to introduce some new and truly special gift options.
The first of these is a range of Raku Pottery. The ancient technique is today
only practised by a very small number of studios and Cavania is collaborating
with one of these to launch a range of Hearts and Birds, all packaged with the
Cavania flair. As is the Cavania way all gift items can be combined with a card
order to keep the order volumes manageable while offering wonderful options
to customers.
Cavania will be exhibiting the range and their other spring launches including
over 48 new card designs and an array of wonderful gifts at Spring Fair.
spring fair
giftfocus 97

Scott Brothers Ltd
Hall 3, Stand N64
Tel: +44 (0)1477 539 500
Web: www.scottmail.co.uk
Scott Brothers Ltd, specialist
in storage products for the
home, is launching a brand
new range of gift bags from
the Japanese manufacturer
Misumaru at Spring Fair
International 2010.
The company will be devoting an entire stand to the new range. This
will be the first time that the gift bag range has been demonstrated in
the UK, following its successful launch in America.
The decorative gift bags, will be exclusively distributed in the UK by
Scott Brothers Ltd and are available in a variety of sizes from small to
large, to accommodate a range of gifts, including a version for wine
bottles. As the gift bags are waterproof and watertight they are also of
interest to florists to hold flower bouquets and plants.
The gift bags are made of high quality, printed film laminate and
can be bought in a range of designs and finishes including non-woven,
metallic or holographic film.
The gift bags are strong and durable and can be used again and again.
Blueprint Collections
Hall 3, Stand F32/G33
Tel: +44 (0)845 217 2400
Web: www.blueprintcollections.co.uk
During 2009, Blueprint Collections launched some useful additions
to its popular Emma Bridgewater Polka Dot and Black Toast
stationery collections and also launched a brand new range of bags
in both designs.
Blueprint will continue to offer the ranges throughout 2010
alongside two brand new ranges of Emma Bridgewater stationery
and bags inspired by her Hearts and Union Jack designs. The Hearts
collection features a memories book, notebooks, large and foldaway
shoppers, an address book and a travel set. The Union Jack range
includes an expander file, large and small shoppers, notebook,
telescopic umbrella and a postcard set.
98 giftfocus
HALL 3
Boxhouse Publishing
Hall 3, Stand S26
Tel: +44 (0)8456 447 507
Web: www.boxhousepublishing.com
As well as showing the new 2011
Organised Mum range of calendars,
diaries and home stationery
products, Boxhouse Publishing will
also be launching Made By Me, a new range of children’s stationery.
Aimed at young children, the new range features colourful bold
illustrations and a number of fun creative elements. The range includes
a perennial children’s calendar with illustrative sticker sheets and fun
reminder stickers and a 30-page reward chart featuring three colourful
designs and 300 snazzy stickers.
There is also a card making kit with 10 cards and envelopes packaged
in a presentation box with sticker sheets, press outs, collage material
and glue dots and an original stationery kit with writing paper, notelets,
envelopes and six sticker sheets based on four fun themes.
Maxine Pharoah
Hall 3, Stand S82
Tel: +44 (0)1788 833 162
Web: www.maxinepharoah.com
Maxine Pharoah designs and
hand makes mirrors, clocks
and cushions with quirky and
colourful imagery, inspired by life
around her.
Fat, scruffy dogs and curious
birds all make appearances as
well as fairies and cupcakes.
Having recently moved to
Cornwall, her 2010 collection of
new work brings designs inspired by boats and seaside observations all
in her unique, whimsical style.
Blossoms & Bows
Hall 3, Stand N32
Tel: +44 (0)1945 466 600
Web: www.blossomsandbows.co.uk
Blossoms & Bows is celebrating 20 years in
business in 2010.
To mark the occasion they are launching
a number of new ranges at Spring Fair as
well as adding lots of new designs to their
already popular ranges.
Pictured is a design from one of
their new ranges “Girls, Girls, Girls” - a
gentle, girlie humour range with a retro/burlesque theme.
Blossoms & Bows has grown by offering a comprehensive range of
greeting cards featuring stunning images, excellent design, superb quality
and first class service.

advertising feature
spring into 2010
with
Flair’s commitment to its brands is clear and
key to the success of this leading toy company
is the targeted advertising and marketing of
its products plus, innovative development in
all areas producing an exciting, fresh portfolio
to suit many markets.
Spring heralds the launch of many new
items that will particularly appeal to the gift
retailer, whilst key toy brands will attract
those customers who service the youngest
consumers – children. Many new brands
will be seen at Spring Fair International that
are ideal for the impulse purchase including
Doodle Dudes, Pop Pals, Zibits and some
fabulous licensed novelties
Zibits will fast track their way in the
popularity stakes with boys of all ages. Each
mini r/c robot comes with accessories to
create an assault course to manoeuvre
around while they master the art of
controlling their bot. Zibits make great desk
toys and with 12 to collect in three different
styles Tech, Junk and Urban, boys will hanker
to own them all.
Alternatively for girls, Pop-Pals will see the
start of a new craze that allows kids aged six
plus to express their
identity through the
colour and buttons on
their Pop Pal. These
highly collectable
bears come with a
different set of six
buttons, simply pop
them through the
holes and change
them around or swap
them with friends for
a new looking Pop Pal
every day which can
then be snapped onto
a bag strap or belt.
100 giftfocus
For mischievous fun
for all ages there
are Doodle Dudes.
Available in packs
of one, two or four.
Doodle Dudes will be
the ideal for anyone
who is hooked on
Urban Vinyl. With Doodle Dudes, it’s easy
to create your own urban character, as each
Dude has a unique coating which can be
drawn on with paint, pen or pencil. The result
- a collectable that will be unique to you or
the person you want to give it to.
Also within the Urban Vinyl theme the UK’s
love affair with Morph can continue to grow
as Flair brings out a new Morph product
that will build upon the success of the Make
your Own Plasticine Morph and Chas sets.
The new Morph Collectable Edition fi gures
have fi ve in the series each depicting a cool
urbanesque morph in a familiar guise, such as
Painter Morph, Cricket Morph or Morph as a
ghost. To add to the collectability of the series,
one in 500 of the boxes actually contains a
limited edition Urban Chas, Morph’s naughtier
alter ego!
Also within the gift selection and adding to
its already huge portfolio of licensed products,
many new ranges and range extensions.
This includes Disney Princess and Toy Story
novelties ideal for impulse purchases, plus
further Toy Story products such as a Slinky
Dog Fan and a Slinky Dog Flashlight which
will hit retailers’ shelves ahead of the eagerly
anticipated fi lm release. New Hello Kitty lines
will also be added to the already successful
collection of luxury plush including a range of
Hello Kitty Eggs. Each plastic egg - available
in packs of two or singularly in a CDU of 12
- contains a Hello Kitty character plus a pet
accessory. The eggs are perfect for Easter and
anytime of year and join other new products
including plush shoulder bags and, purses
Within the mainstream portfolio, key toy
brands will have exciting new additions for
both spring and autumn
Fans of Sylvanian Families certainly won’t
be disappointed with the latest additions to
the range which include a fabulous Windmill
to delight traditionalists, plus two new abodes
– the Regency Hotel and Beechwood Hall.
Sylvania also welcomes some delightful new
families including Spotter Meerkats, plus a
fabulous new Motorcycle with Sidecar. The
spring range from Sylvanian Families is equally
strong, with a Bus Driver and Conductor Set
containing Stan and Oliver Butler, all set to
take charge of the new Woodland Bus.
Also for girls, Disney Fairies is to become a
much extended brand with a new micro and
mini range ideal for both gift and toy retailers
including play sets, fi gures and accessories.
Finally the Flair Create portfolio will also
be expanded with many new creative kits
such as Zubber. Zubber is an exciting new
compound that moulds like dough and sets
like rubber and promises to be a hit. Three
sets will be introduced in spring, including the
Zubber Band Maker for creating personalised
wrist bands.
For more information about Flair’s exciting
range of toys for 2010, visit Hall 5, stand C19
at Spring Fair, call 0208 643 0320 or email
enquiries@fl airplc.co.uk g
For more information about Flair’s exciting
range of toys for 2010, visit Hall 5, stand
C19 at Spring Fair, call 0208 643 0320 or
email enquiries@fl airplc.co.uk

HALL 4
gift & home together
Spring Fair International is the largest gift and
home fair in Europe and one of the biggest
shows of its kind in the world.
The comprehensive selection of general
giftware, collectables and home products
is unmatched anywhere else in the UK.
Dedicated areas include wellbeing and
toiletries, heritage and souvenirs as well as
outdoor living.
An additional hall for Gift & Home
Addject Ltd.
Hall 4, Stand E56
Tel: +44 (0)1202 892 863
Web: www.addject.com
Addject has a number of innovative and exciting new
products launching in 2010.
These include A3 MemoMate magnetic laminate
memo boards, shaped like a sheet of paper, with
a curled corner for storing a dry-wipe pen. The
MemoMate is ideal for de-cluttering the desk, with six
magnetic pushpins for securing notes or hanging keys.
There are five MemoMate designs: Ruled Paper, Down
Under, Icons, The Tube and Uncharted Territory.
Another ingenious new Addject product is the ‘Light
More Light’ Book Light, an innovative light shaped like a
hardback book, complete with engravings on the spine
and cover. The white LED lighting is energy efficient,
with minimal heat output.
There are two new arrivals to the Mighty Wallet
range from Dynomighty design.
The Mighty Wallet is made from a single sheet of
strong, virtually indestructible Tyvek®, a 25 per cent
recycled material that is both tear-proof and waterproof.
Mighty Wallets and their packaging are both 100
per cent recyclable and printed with environmentally
friendly ink.
For those who love nostalgia and miss the days of the
cassette tape, reminisce with the retro Mix Tape design,
featuring the names of classic bands and tunes, you can
even write your own favourites on it for a completely
personalised design.
exhibitors has been added for 2010.
Gift & Home event director Nick Davison
says: “A lot of gift companies now supply
home products and a lot of home companies
have diversified into giftware. Bringing them
together means that visitors will be able to
discover new products they weren’t necessarily
looking for.”
More than 400 companies, including a clutch
of new international exhibitors, have filled
Hall 4, which will showcase the world’s biggest
offering of contemporary gifts and collectables.
The contemporary gifts offering is
also extended to Hall 3. Spotlight on
Contemporary Gifts will include both large
and small companies and has attracted a host
of top-notch suppliers.
This feature is complemented by DesignGap
in Hall 3, which is also home to the gift
stationery section.
Spaceform
Hall 4, Stand A50
Tel: +44 (0)207 622 2227
Web: www.spaceform.com
Spaceform, already well
known for creatively
leading the glass giftware
market, can also be
commissioned to create
exclusive collections and
unique promotional pieces.
The British Museum
recently grabbed the
opportunity to commission Spaceform to design products in line with the
museum events. The collections are now available to buy exclusively in the
museum shop. Other companies that have commissioned Spaceform to create
unique promotional pieces include Ask Restaurants, Virgin Vie, Human Rights
Campaign, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To find out more visit their
stand at Spring Fair or call them direct.
Disaster Designs
Hall 4, Stand K66
Tel: +44 (0)1323 441 444
Web: www.disasterdesigns.co.uk
Disaster is celebrating its 21 st birthday this spring, and it is bound to be a party
to remember!
Last year was the company’s busiest ever and to celebrate Disaster will be
quaffing champagne, nibbling on
cupcakes and shouting out about
its new collections!
This spring the team is mixing
up its love of city life, flea
markets and left field, cult kids'
illustrations to beat a path to fab
new product launches.
Pretty City is a nostalgic
collection with a cute, modern
twist inspired by short bus rides
and long taxi queues.
spring fair
giftfocus 101

Fraser Studios
Hall 4, Stand K20/K36
Tel: +44 (0)1592 774 540
Web: www.fraserstudios.com
Fraser Studios will introduce 30 new
Annaleece jewellery pieces at Spring Fair
– with an additional 18 items at keener
price points. For the first time, the entire
Crystallized by Swarovski range will also
be gift boxed in 2010, which sees the
launch of the new catalogue. The riskfree
60-day Annaleece offer – subject to
availability – has proved to be a big success
and retailers are invited to contact Fraser
Studios for details.
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HALL 4
The new 12-strong treble fragrance
WoodWick Trilogy candle range
from Fraser Studios gives users three
complementary fragrances in one product.
There are also new fragrances for each
of the three candle jars, reed diffusers,
spill-proof reed diffusers, wax melts and
cars scents, including Candied Berries and
Vintage Plum. A new Petite range of votive
candles in glass holders – with the famous
wooden wick – is also being launched at
Spring Fair in 12 fragrances.
Fraser Studios has secured the first-ever
consignment of hit Australian range Text Speak
from Splosh! It features abbreviations used by
people who text each other. These can be stuck
on a variety of surfaces, including walls, doors
and shelves. The range – attractively priced and
in funky colours to appeal to youngsters – has
been so successful that complementary photo
frames have been launched.
Ballmania lip balm
products will come
under the Twist &
Pout name in the
UK from 2010 to
synchronise with US
branding. Distributor
Fraser Studios will
also introduce a new
merchandiser at
Spring Fair – featuring
an apothecary jar that
fits into a circular dish with a tester.
The Lip Clip and Clip Gloss charms for
handbags have become the latest fashion
accessories and there are also new designs
across all the ranges. Lips Ahoy! adopts a
nautical theme, while there are six new pieces
in dazzling colours called Clip Gloss Drops.
New to the LittleGifts pet-themed range from
Fraser Studios comes three new lines. A mouse
mat and two-coaster set is available across 12
popular dog breeds, and there are also dog
charms for handbags and notepads carrying
images of cuddly canines. LittleGifts keychains,
featuring dogs, cats and horses, continue to be
best sellers for the company.
Launched in the UK by Fraser Studios,
Wellspring’s top-selling Everyday Flip Notes
– metal spring-loaded cases with notepads
and pens – and the complementary
Madison Collection including compacts and
pill boxes, will see new additions for Spring
Fair. The Audrey Collection will also be
unveiled, offering a stationery range with
its own colourways which also includes
bookmarks, sticky notes and pens. Retailers
will also welcome the new floor-standing
unit that houses the entire range.

hazel atkinson jewellery
104 giftfocus
‘Heaven and Earth Collecti on’
Anodi zed alumi n i um jewellery
handmade i n Notti ngham UK
Exhibiting Spring 2010 at
Top Drawer. Stand W10
Scotlands Trade Fair. Stand F120
New York International Gift Fair. Booth 6502B
Spring Fair. Stand RJ104
Tel: 0115 958 6183
www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk
HALL 4
Gift Republic
Hall 4, Stand F45
Tel: +44 (0)8451 262 324
Web: www.giftrepublic.com
Personalised Classics offer the
chance to play a starring role in
a favourite classic novel.
Each Personalised Classics gift box
features an interchangeable cast list
of lead characters; with friends or family
names used to complete the cast.
Each gift box includes everything needed to
tailor-make a personalised classic novel. The minimum order is one case
of five gift boxes.
The full range includes Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Dracula,
Frankenstein, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Pride & Prejudice, Robin
Hood, Romeo & Juliet and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Wild and Wolf
Hall 4, Stand G52/H53
Tel: +44 (0)1225 789 909
Web: www.wildandwolf.com
Design-led gift company, Wild and Wolf focuses on all things pretty
and useful.
Its collection of products for all ages features retro, classic and
contemporary design. Product lines include collectables, licensed
ranges from popular television series and cartoons, games,
stationery, baby wear, gifts for the home and garden and more.
Their Charlie and Lola and The Gruffalo range have been well
received by retailers and customers, and new additions will be on
show at Spring Fair, along with other new lines.

Seek Unique Ltd
Hall 4, Stand A66
Tel: +44 (0)8450 091 825
Web: www.seekunique.co.uk
To complement its
established collections
Seek Unique is introducing
a brand new contemporary
range for 2010 featuring
bright stripes on silky
black fabric.
Known for handmade
and luxurious jewellery boxes,
jewellery rolls, sewing kits and useful
handbag accessories, the company’s
offering will feature all the old favourites
enhanced by a number of new and exciting additions.
Latest products in the Stripe Collection include a stacked jewellery
box, hand mirror and photo album, featuring all the usual quality
and finish.
Taking Seek Unique in a fresh new direction, the Stripe Collection
is designed to appeal to young and old alike.
Shared Earth
Hall 4, Stand E41
Tel: +44 (0)1904 670 321
Web: www.sharedearth-trade.co.uk
Fair trade pioneers Shared
Earth will be showcasing a
new folk-inspired range of
jewellery, handmade from
ceramic, stone and wooden
beads by TARA Projects in
Delhi, India.
TARA campaigns for
fair trade, and is actively
involved in anti-child labour
campaigns. Many of TARA’s
artisans are women and
it places special emphasis
on setting up women’s
self help groups and
programmes to help ensure
their independence.
Also new for spring are
Ikat tribal design scarves from Asha Handicrafts in Mumbai. Asha has
been practising fair trade since 1975 and works with artisans all over
India. The scarves are handloom woven from viscose yarns.
Other new products for 2010 include accessories made from
recycled tyres, beautiful new handmade paper stationery and intricate
carved wooden panels and boxes.
Start the season in style at:
Spring Fair International NEC, Hall 2 Stand C29/D30
and Ambiente 2010, Hall 4.1, Stand A51
The Denby Pottery Co Ltd
tel. 01773 740715
www.denby.co.uk
Need a great counter item in your store?
Here are 5 reasons why you
should try Fridgi!
1 A great impulse buy. Everyone
has photos and cards to display.
2 High turnover & profit margins.
3 Repeat sales as customers
create photo albums on their fridge
& in their workplace.
4 The World’s Best magnetic photo
& cardframe in your store.
5 The Fridgi Guarantee: If we can’t
help make Fridgi one of the best
selling items, we’ll take them back
at no cost to you.
www.fridgi.co.uk
T: 01527 821845 M: 07816 894846
F: 01527 821939 E: info@fridgi.co.uk
giftfocus 105

Trendle
Hall 4, Stand G24
Tel: +44 (0)1984 656 888
Web: www.trendle.com
Trendle has six additional new designs arriving for spring
2010, adding to its early winter group of new fully jointed
bears. Maurice the Monkey joins Seamus the Sheep within
the company’s new “Leggie” brand. Trendle experienced a
huge increase in demand during the run up to Christmas,
almost selling out of many bears. In addition retailers can
order a “mix” with their hand-painted miniature porcelain
animals, thimbles and more, plus World of Miniature Bears.
C.G.E. World Globes Ltd.
Hall 4, Stand E55
Tel: +44 (0)1635 866 021
Web: www.cgeglobes.co.uk
The new Sheffield White Ocean Globe from C.G.E.
World Globes, features bright continent and country
colours and clear acrylic swan neck style stand.
Exclusive to C.G.E. it is a limited edition globe from
the U.S. cartographer D. Mellen. A 30cm diameter
political globe, with completely accurate mapping and
more place names than a world wall map.
HALL 4
HomePlates Worldwide LLC
Hall 4, Stand D67
Tel: 0800 471 5093
Web: www.homeplates.co.uk
HomePlates switch covers add the
perfect ‘finishing touch’ to any room
in seconds!
They require no rewiring and fit
over all brands of UK single switches.
Injection moulded from sturdy
ABS plastic and made in the USA,
HomePlates fix securely and are not
held on with adhesive tape. There
are hundreds to choose from including original and licensed designs. Custom work
is a speciality, with creations for Laura Ashley, John Lewis, Beatrix Potter, and Horrible
Histories, new to the HomePlates’ collection.
KTWO Products
Hall 4, Stand C47
Tel: +44 (0)1314 679 004
Web: www.ktwoproducts.com
KTWO products offer a
constantly refreshed collection
of gift ideas and solutions for
organising busy lives. The design
team has been working on a
host of new additions including
the Campervan Vehicle
Document File.
The practical document file
is designed to hold and protect
important vehicle documents and make them easy to find when they are needed in
a hurry. It has space for all vital vehicle documents, including MOT certificate, vehicle
registration, insurance, service history and driving licence.
And with lots of families owning more than one vehicle, this file has been
designed to hold up to four full sets of documents.
spring fair
giftfocus giftfocus 107 107

Widdop Bingham
Hall 4, Stand H20/J21
Tel : +44 (0)1616 881 226
Web: www.widdop.co.uk
Widdop Bingham will be re-launching its popular collectable
range of animal figurines.
With over 50 new additions to the range, the revamp
will give the range a completely new look and flavour,
widening its appeal beyond the traditional animal collector.
Animals within the range span different continents,
with bisons, camels, penguins and zebras all making an
appearance. Highly collectable animals such as eagles, owls
and elephants are all represented and traditional British
animals have not been forgotten either.
Also included are animals with a new bronze effect finish
– including handcrafted rabbit, duck and dolphin.
Onigo Worldwide
Hall 4, Stand D74
Tel: +1 416 345 8592
Web: www.onigo.com
Onigo will showcase
its collection of wide
brim sun hats that are
crushable, packable, and
ready for travel. Available
in a wide variety of
colours and styles, the
fashion forward hats are
both stylish and practical.
The raffia hats are
handcrafted on the island
of Madagascar, original creations handmade by skilled locals.
The company will also be introducing its new collection
of environmentally friendly French shopping bags. Available
in a wide variety of original designs, the shoppers are
perfect as carryalls and also promote the three R’s: Reduce,
Reuse, Recycle!
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HALL 4
Mulberry Silk
Hall 4, Stand C22
Tel: +44 (0)1228 544 728
Web: www.mulberry-silk.co.uk
Mulberry Silk art and heritage is noted as a
supplier of scarves and ties featuring heritage
and historic themes.
The company has been established
internationally for over ten years, working with
English Heritage, the National Trust, museums,
cathedrals, castles, palaces, tourist outlets from
Cornwall to Scottish Islands.
The Mulberry Silk collection includes Celtic,
Mackintosh and Tudor themes in scarves and
ties made of 100 per cent silk hand finished to
a high level but still affordable. Bespoke designs
are available along with point of sale packaging
and excellent quality control.
The recent addition to the Tudor range is
depicted in two colourways chestnut and pink.
The motif is inspired from the Bible cover given
to Elizabeth I on her accession to the throne.
The scarf is made of velvet over printed with a
Tudor rose symbol lined with chermeuse silk.
That company called if
Hall 4, Stand C50/D49
Tel: 0800 043 0960
Web: www.thatcompany
calledif.com
Beatrix Potter notebooks
are one of a host of new
product lines being showcased
by That Company Called If.
The set of four notebooks
has been produced in the
style of the original first edition
books published by Frederick
Warne & Co. in the early 1900s.
The company has
endeavoured to faithfully
reproduce as far as possible the printing
methods used; including double de-bossed cover with colour pastedown
and silver gilt lettering to front and spine. Presented in a matt laminated
colour display and free display with all starter pack orders.
Other recent additions include The Very Hungry Caterpillar magnetic
bookmarks, launched in 2009, the 40 th anniversary year of Eric Carle’s popular
children’s story and colourful new page markers. The Mini-Marks Magnetic
Bookmarks are designed as a collection of book-themed genres. Each glossy
bookmark has two little magnets, which grip onto the page to keep important
information tagged. There are six individual bookmarks in each pack.

The Lagoon Group
Hall 4, Stand F33
Tel: +44 (0)208 563 6520
Web: www.thelagoongroup.com
Bite-sized entertainment is being served up
by Lagoon, which is launching its new range
of Tabletop Games at Spring Fair.
The range of family games combines fun
for all ages with elegant good looks.
MD Heather Watherston says: “These
Tabletop Games include some of the all-time
great after dinner games like Word Bluff and
Mini Charades and are perfect for dinner
parties, family gatherings and pretty much any
kind of get-together.”
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HALL 4
Artscape Publishing Ltd
Hall 4, Stand B5
Tel: +44 (0)208 681 8368
Web: www.artscapeonline.com
Spring Fair sees not only the new design launch of the
Santa Balls® ranges of baubles, cards, bags, wrap and new 'ho bloody ho
and bah humbug chefs’ aprons but also the introduction of the Balls Tree.
The clever elves at Santa Balls® have realised that not all retail outlets
have enough space for the popular floor standing spinner and have
devised a merchandising unit capable of displaying 100 baubles. Coloured
green and shaped like a tree, the flat packed merchandising unit is
available free on loan, minimum order quantity applies.
Metal Planet
Hall 4, Stand C28
Tel: +44 (0)208 440 2468
Web: www.metalplanet.net
New from Metal Planet is a great range of shiny pewter
pocket charms, designed and made in the UK.
They can be used as expressive and unique gifts for
special occasions including new baby arrivals and weddings.
The charms can be sold individually or in sets of five
pieces. Also supplied with a smart, purple counter display stand allowing customers to select the
designs they want to include in their bag of charms.
The range complements the company’s popular range of pewter worded pebbles and pocket
angels and all pieces can be mixed together.
Available with soft pink, soft blue and ivory organza bags and branded with a tiny Metal Planet
pewter droplet tied to the ribbon.
Xystos
Hall 4, Stand H04/J05
Tel: +44 (0)1914 991 570
Web: www.xystos.co.uk
Xystos is to launch a major expansion of its business at Spring Fair International.
The company bought famous crystal name Gleneagles of Edinburgh a year ago, and general
manager Tom Sykes says it will, “build on this successful brand with a very substantial investment in a
comprehensive range of new product”.
At the show it will unveil Gleneagles Studio, which will include home accessories, lighting and figural
product, while Gleneagles Fine China will feature ceramics.
Distribution of Pavilion Gift’s Comfort Candles and Comfort to Go also came out of the Gleneagles deal and a new complementary
Pavilion range, Layla – Ladies Accessories You Like A Lot – will also be launched by Xystos at Spring Fair.
Aimed at a younger market, the modern-looking products – including tealight holders, photo frames and
jewellery trees - will be in brushed steel and brown leatherette and carry sentimental inscriptions.
Xystos has four key product streams, Gifts for Everyone, Fantasy, Home & Living and Flame & Fragrance,
where its Norfolk Lavender range – which now includes candles – will be further extended with the
introduction of nine ceramic and kitchen accessories, including mugs, coasters, tea sets and lap and tea trays.
These will all carry typical Norfolk Lavender graphics.
Separately, Xystos will launch a further 36 mugs under the Gleneagles brand – six of which will be
presented in gift boxes.
Its new sentiment-driven collection, Amber Days – which has enjoyed a successful soft launch and is
already repeating – will be rolled out at Spring Fair. There will be 16 beautifully sculpted models in the range.
The show will also see additions to Lost Dog, Piggin’, PenDelfin and Myth & Magic.

Spring Fair 2010
Hall 18 Stand B10
T: 01887 820 760
W: www.joforgirls.co.uk
E: sales@perthshirejewellery.co.uk
Perthshire Jewellery Co. Aberfeldy, Perthshire. PH15 2DJ

HALL 4
Blue Poppy Art Limited
Hall 4, Stand D60
Tel: +44 (0)8708 519 302
Web: www.frithsculpture.co.uk
Blue Poppy Art is launching more new sculptures at this year’s Spring Fair.
Following the success of Veronica Ballan’s two sculptures last autumn eight new
designs are being introduced. This includes three more examples of Highland Cattle
to make a family group, Black Faced Sheep, hares and others.
Paul Jenkins has created new models of hares as well as some incredible meerkats.
As well as the exciting new sculptures, all the remaining Frith collection will be
on display which comprises of more than 130 sculptures – all originally sculpted by
British artists.
Winged Heart Stained Glass
Hall 4, Stand B40
Tel: +44 (0)1697 73 589
Web: www.winged-heart.com
Winged Heart Stained Glass is
bringing out a completely new
kind of ‘stained glass’ paperweight,
aimed both at the general gift
market, the heritage market, and
as promotional items.
Designed and made in
the borders of Scotland and
Cumbria the paperweights
incorporate hand painted ‘stained glass’ designs in a variety of styles. The company
is already producing bespoke designs, e.g. Eton College and Notre Dame in Paris,
and is happy to consider designing and producing exclusive designs for special
requirements. The quality glass paperweights are 65mm in diameter, and come in
ivory and gold gift boxes.
Fizbag
Hall 4, Stand B37
Tel: +44 (0)1534 481 927
Web: www.fizbag.com
There’s an ally close at hand for all those women who made a New Year’s resolution
to become more organised. Fizbag’s new Fizpouch is the answer to a girl’s prayers
The five-pocket, three-compartment, magnetically fastened, dinky-sized, handled bag,
sits inside a larger handbag, to provide a place for everything.
There are four designs available – Lulu (Zebra), Amber (turquoise snakeskin
effect), Ava (purple with pink spots) and Saffron (pink snakeskin).
Ashleigh & Burwood
Hall 4, Stand G32
Tel: +44 (0)1932 267 060
www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk
Ashleigh & Burwood will showcase its best selling Fragrance
Lamp range at Spring Fair 2010. Visitors will be able to
see the latest brand new designs, as well as sample the
selection of fragrances, which accompany the collection.
In addition, a brand new mid-price range of reed
diffusers will be launched. The range of 24 different
fragrances catches the eye, with a bold bank of colour
To accompany the range is a complete set of 200ml refill
fragrances. These carry eye-catching coloured labelling on a
disposable plastic bottle. Completing Ashleigh & Burwood’s
reed diffuser portfolio, the new range of reed diffusers
accompanies other successful ranges, of the premium
200ml ‘Luxury Diffuser’ range and the designer 250ml ‘A la
Maison’ collection.
spring fair
giftfocus giftfocus 113

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HALL 4
Lesser & Pavey (Importers) Ltd
Hall 4, Stand L04
Tel: +44 (0)1322 279 225
Web: www.leonardo.co.uk
New for spring Lesser
& Pavey is adding to its
comprehensive range of
houseware products.
Two contemporary
ranges with summer in
mind entitled, “Seaside”
and “Beachtime”, have
been designed exclusively
for Lesser & Pavey by UK
artist Wendy Darker.
Each range comprises
of magnet clock, canvas,
set of six fine china mugs,
latte mug in three designs,
fine china mug and coaster sets, coasters and placemats, large trays and
sandwich trays, tea bag holder and spoon rest.
The two ranges join other new houseware arrivals for spring - Down
on the Farm, Waggie Tail and Wet Noses, Woodlands, Fruits and Flowers.
Rainbow Designs
Hall 4, Stand G60/H61
Tel: +44 (0)8707 587 700
Web: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk
New for 2010 is the launch of
Rainbow’s ‘Snoopy – then and
now…’ a range created to mark
the 60 th anniversary of Charles
Schulz’s iconic character.
The gift collection, which
makes its debut at Spring
Fair, features vintage artwork
packaging on a selection of stylish
products including Snoopy in a
gift bag and collectors’ limited
edition Snoopy with 60 th
anniversary logo foot patch
presented in gift box, both made
from PU leatherette material.
Snoopy fans will also love the
cool ‘It’s a Comical World’ range featuring the series of 8cm resin
Snoopy collectables in addition to a ‘Design-Your-Own’ Snoopy
money box, a twin bell alarm clock and Snoopy keyring.
Visitors to Rainbow’s stand will also see the complete Classic
Beatrix Potter gift collection, the Beatrix Potter Signature range,
the new Once Upon A Time Beatrix Potter nursery collection and
striking new arrivals to the Paddington Tourist range.

Sonia Spencer Design
Hall 4, Stand C41
Tel: +44 (0)1367 244 277
Web: www.soniaspencer.co.uk
Sonia Spencer, one of the
UK’s leading purveyors of fine
quality cufflinks presents The
Polished Steel Collection.
Designed in the UK, the
new line of sleek, ultra-modern
cufflinks for the discerning man
features bold shapes, distinctive
patterns and a series of warm
shades to complement the
spring palette.
Fashioned from high quality steel, finely etched and decorated with
a glossy translucent enamel and classic whale tail fitting, they are the
perfect accompaniment to smart tailoring.
The cufflinks are the latest addition to the British designer’s ever
expanding collection, encompassing everything from polished stainless
steel keyrings and bone china mugs, to the launch of her first range of
jewellery for women.
Inch Blue
Hall 4, Stand A77
Tel: +44 (0)1495 311 128
Web: www.inch-blue.com
Inch Blue’s soft leather
shoes have been
adorning the feet of
babies and toddlers
since 1999.
Their constantly
evolving collection is
complemented by gift
sets, which include
100 per cent cotton
babygros and 100
per cent lambswool
receiving blankets.
With over 100 fun
and fresh designs to
choose from, and
around 25 new styles added for spring/summer 2010, there’s always a
style that will appeal.
Russian dolls, a favourite with children and adults alike, feature on the
Baboushka shoe, which comes in yellow, baby blue and rose pink and is
tipped to be a best seller this season.
The company’s gifts sets keep going from strength to strength and
this season sees their biggest ever selection. The popular Oriental Bird
design has had a makeover for the coming season with even more
flowers than before.
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HALL 4
Envirosax
Hall 4, Stand E44
Tel: +44 (0)1792 797 968
Web: www.envirosax.com/uk
Envirosax®, the fashionable eco-tote
company, will be showcasing a trio
of exciting new products.
The company, which pioneered
the designer reusable bag, adds
three fabulous new designs to
its existing collections. The first,
Slingsax is made from 45% recycled
materials and in a messenger-bag
shape. Retaining the sassy style for
which Envirosax is known, Slingsax come in three appealing designs,
great for both men and women.
Envirosax is also introducing the new Minisax – also made from 45%
rPET and available in three designs, taken from the Slingsax range. The
new Minisax are half the size of the original bags, making them ideal
for a water bottle and lunch, to take to work or school for the ecoconscious
family. Spring Fair also sees the official UK launch of Envirosax
Aqua – a new range of designer reusable drinking bottles.
The bottles are lightweight, made from stainless steel and feature a
sports cap closure.
There are also a further three new bag series from the original
Envirosax eco-tote to reveal.
The brand offers merchandising opportunities and produces clear
counter-top display units for encouraging impulse purchases.
Be one of the first to see the fresh new products and receive a free
sample shopping tote by visiting their stand.
For Every Body
Hall 4, Stand E34
Tel: +44 (0)1952 457 408
Web: www.foreverybody.biz
For Every Body will be
showcasing two new
collections for 2010.
Signature Scents is a
collection of fragranced soy
based candles with average
burn times of 45 hours. The
non-toxic, biodegradable
candles represent a gift for
every occasion.
The new Fresh Scents
collection offers fragranced
18 oz soy based candles with average burn times of 200 hours. The
non-toxic, biodegradable candles represent great value for money. With
spring fragrances and a new look, this new collection includes designer
scents such as “Bamboo”, “Daisy Musk” and “Spring Blossom”.
Enesco Ltd
Hall 4, Stand F04/G05 G04/H05
Tel: +44 (0)1228 404 022
Web: www.enesco.co.uk
Accomplished artist Nel
Whatmore has designed two
exclusive votive collections,
Reason to Give and Keep a
Secret, for Enesco Gift.
Reason to Give includes
twelve ceramic votives each filled
with wax delicately fragranced
with vanilla essence, as well as two vases – ideal for holding bunches of
spring flowers. The designs such as Tulips and Freesia are typical of Nel’s
trademark style of bright and bold florals.
Keep a Secret is a sophisticated contemporary collection of 12 glass
votives. Each of the three different meadow flowers or grass designs is
available in four colours. An innovative mirrored effect to the inside of
each votive reflects and magnifies the sparkling LED tealight.
Since the Keep a Secret votives present no risk of fire, they can be
used freely around the home to create a warm and welcoming aura.
Inspired by lotus, orchid, and hydrangea flowers and by the delicate
butterfly, Enesco’s UK designers have created four imaginative designs
for a new collection of Handcast home accessories.
Texture and interest is added by the separately moulded and hand
painted floral and butterfly motifs that are mounted onto each piece.
The suite of wooden accessories includes a lidded box, wall and desk
clocks and two photo frames.
Lucy Tom Ltd
Hall 4, Stand B35
Tel: +44 (0)1666 826 766
Web: www.lucytom.com
Spring 2010 sees Lucy
Tom Interiors, the
Malmesbury based gift
wholesaler and designers,
launching its newest fabrics
and designs to the market.
For the first time in over three years, the range has had a
thorough makeover - with new fabric ranges to update their
doorstop ranges, an expansion of colour options and for the first
time, an entry into the home interiors market with beanbags a key
feature in their new catalogue.
The existing range of Welly Bootbags has also been revamped
with more colour options and new kitchen textiles for the home are
launched too.
Lucy Tom continues to work with Emma Bridgewater, following
the 2009 launch of an exclusive range in Emma’s own fabrics.
Up and coming for spring 2010 will be a partnership with The
National Gallery Company with a labelled collection for their English
Country Style range.

HALL 4
Retreat Home Ltd
Hall 4, Stand E43
Tel: +44 (0)8708 033 428
Web: www.retreat-home.com
Retreat offers gifts and accessories for the home, combining a nostalgic,
vintage feel with current motifs and a healthy dash of humour. Colours
for 2010 are New England soft and summery, with naturals, soft blues
and lilacs in elegant natural linens, offering both comfort and style.
Inspiration for the collection is retro chic, a new interpretation of simple
shapes and designs: appliqué and embroidery both feature across the
range of cushions, purses, cosmetic bags and scented hearts, reminiscent
of the handworked antique linens of summers from a bygone era.
Heyland and Whittle
Hall 4, Stand C53
Tel: +44 (0)1293 863 606
Web: www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk
Heyland and Whittle will be showcasing its luxurious
candles and home fragrances. All the goods are crafted in
England using natural ingredients. The reed diffusers are
formulated with a natural base as well as plant extracts and
oils. The candles are made with sustainable palm oil and soy
oils with their own signature fragrances and packaged in the
company’s distinctive presentation boxes.
Heyland & Whittle’s candles and reed diffuser room
fragrances come in five unique scents.
HeadsUp Design Company
Hall 4, Stand B38
Tel: +44 (0)870 766 2494
Web: www.headsupco.com
GOOOOAAAALLLLL!!!! HeadsUp
Design Company is launching a
special limited edition clock for
everyone catching World Cup fever.
On the hour the doors open to the
sound of a ball being kicked and the
roar of the delighted crowd. The
clocks come with a swinging football
shaped pendulum. Like all Coo
Clocks, they turn off automatically
when the room becomes dark.
From You to Me
Hall 4, Stand B6
Tel: +44 (0)1225 866 225
Web: www.fromyoutome.com
The from you to me range of journals
is a gift with a twist – a gift you
receive back – for families to record
their life stories and pass them on.
Since the launch in 2007 the
business and the range has gone
from strength to strength. In 2008 the
Giftware Association awarded from
you to me a Gift of the Year Award,
providing a springboard to rapid
business success. The journals began
selling in over 500 stores nationwide
– and across the globe, from Canada
to Australia. The full range of from
you to me journals includes 12 titles
for all the family, for friends and for
Christmas memories.
spring fair
giftfocus giftfocus 119 119

Takkoda
Hall 4, Stand G53
Tel: +44 (0)8701 909 395
Web: www.takkoda.com
Takkoda has a reputation for quirky and fun animal designs
on greetings cards and gifts. Takkoda offers an antidote to
the ubiquitous cute animal ranges and is popular with adults
and kids alike.
Pocket Pouches,
the perfect holder for
travel and all other
cards, feature 12 best
selling designs from
its Famous Faces and
Pets Rock cards.
Available with
a free stand with
complete orders of
12 x 12 designs.
Beauty Connection Ltd
Hall 4, Stand C56
Tel: +44 (0)1829 730 028
Web: www.beautyconnectionlimited.com
Abode Aroma is splashing out with two new fragrance
stories – Oceanic and Citrus - bringing six delightfully
unique scents including Sea Mist, Citrus Sage and Zucchini
Flower to the fragrance party.
It’s not only the new and exciting spring fragrances that
make the range a winning choice. Abode Aroma’s superior
formulation ensures an extremely effective longer lasting
product, made even more unique by its stylish packaging
and vibrant colours.
120 giftfocus
HALL 4
Pintail Candles
Hall 4, Stand A33
Tel: +44 (0)1539 559 007
Web: www.pintailcandles.com
This year at Spring Fair Pintail
Candles is expanding its
Fusion range.
Due to popular demand
four spring fragrances are
being added to both the reed
diffusers and the wax Fusion
glass in all three sizes. Each
fragrance has been selected
from the best selling scents in
the filled tin candle.
Top selling ranges of Pintail
Candle tins and glass, will see
the return of spring/summer
favourites to the already
successful range, with six new fragrances
and colours including “Cottonsoft”.
Window-Kit
Hall 4, Stand C48
Tel: +44 (0)1962 621 686
Web: www.window-kit.com
Window-Kit, the designer
vinyl graphic company,
will be launching a new
collection for retailers at
Spring Fair.
Window-Kit offers a
range of pre-designed vinyl
sticker kits for retailers to
use on their windows and
interior walls.
All kits are designed by
a leading London window
designer to attract and
focus attention.
Over 200 kits are
available with 33 vinyl
colour choices to choose
from. Kits can be mixed and
matched to create a totally
unique window.
Retailers can be individual
and creative with their
windows within minutes.

HHJ Trading Ltd
We are based in Dartford, Kent just on the outskirts of London.
We are predominantly a UK Manufacturer of Framed Art, Mirrors and Multi Aperture
Photo-Frames. Being a Manufacturer allows us to update our range on a regular basis and
this is done every 6-8 weeks. We deliver our orders within 2 weeks and our carriage paid
order is £300.00 You will fi nd our complete portfolio of products on our web-site.
Come see our Spring 2010 Range at the Spring Fair Birmingham, Hall 6 Stand J28.
Martick Jewellery spring season 2010
Top Drawer Spring 14-16 January
Earls Court 1 London Stand U4
ISF Birmingham 7-11 February Hall 18 Stand C50
Pure 14-16 February Stand J119
Olympia London
Tel: 0207 274 0333 | Email: martickjewellery@yahoo.co.uk
www.martickjewellery.com
Martick Jewellery, PO Box 27886, London, SE24 0XW
As well as our UK produced products we also supply a fantastic range of Photo Frames that we import from the
Far East, the range is wide and varied it is always in stock and can be delivered within one week on most occasions,
it also includes the Eco Friendly range of Photo Frames Cellalin. For more info please visit www.cellalin.com
0208 309 4790 | sales@hhj-trading.co.uk | www.hhj-trading.co.uk
HHJ Trading Ltd, HHJ House, 10 A&B Whitehall Lane, Erith, Kent, DA8 2DH

122 giftfocus
HALL 5
toys & party
Leading toy manufacturers and designers will be gathering in Hall 5 to showcase the
UK’s largest collection of Toys & Party products.
Picture courtesy of HABA
Hall 5, Stand D55

124 giftfocus
HALL 5
Bananagrams
Hall 5, Stand D61
Tel: +44 (0)208 876 3013
Web: www.bananagrams-intl.com
PAIRSinPEARS
is a new word
construction game
for ages six and up
from the creators of
Bananagrams.
Players race
to make pairs of
connecting words
in matching patterns. PAIRSinPEARS comes in a luscious green pearshaped
cloth pouch, containing four full alphabet sets in four distinct
patterns – black, white, dots and stripes. It’s a race to arrange the tiles
in pairs of words in a criss-cross layout. The first player to get six pairs
of criss-cross words wins! Get extra points by matching the patterns.
There are also extra challenges for more adult play. The game provides
educational fun for children learning vowels and consonants, alphabetical
order, word construction and pattern recognition.
Be My Bear
Hall 5, Stand J68
Tel: +44 (0)1492 544 666
Web: www.bemybear.co.uk
Award-winning
company Be My
Bear is unveiling
its new range of
jungle animal kits.
The Kuddly
Kits were highly
commended in
the Kids category
of the Gift of
the Year Awards
2004 and the
company expects
the new range
will be equally
well received.
Each no-sew
kit comes with
material, compressed stuffing, a wish star charm, birth certificate,
carry bag and invitation. A wide range of accessories are available
including a make your own and colour-in range of accessories,
character clothing, shoes and slippers as well as recordable voice
chips. In addition to the new jungle range, product lines include
teddy bears, puppies, rabbits, cats and unicorns with sizes ranging
from 10 inch to 15 inch.

HABA
Hall 5, Stand D55
Tel: +44 (0)1613 049 555
Web: www.haba.co.uk
With natural products in demand,
HABA’s new Pure Nature Cottis made
from high quality cotton from controlled
organic farming is set to be a popular
range. The soft lambs are perfect from birth upwards, helping babies to
fall asleep, making play fun and even for drying away tears.
Renowned for beautiful wooden toys, HABA will also be revealing
some stunning additions for 2010 including colourful Animal Scooters.
All made from natural beech wood, there are four in the collection –
Horse Paulina, Bear Ben, Cow Caro and Crocodile Chris – with moving
heads and ringing bells.
HABA is also introducing some new soft ranges including Welcome
Set Leo Leopard – an ideal gift for newborn babies.
Le Toy Van
Hall 5, Stand A49
Tel: +44 (0)208 979 2036
Web: www.letoyvan.com
Noah’s Shape Sorter, a new
painted wooden ark from Le
Toy Van, comes complete with
seven distinctive animal pairs
each designed to fit perfectly in their respective shapes.
Noah and his wife complete the set, which makes an ideal gift to
nurture a child’s dexterity and awareness.
Budkins, the friendly, bendy range of poseable, handmade wooden
characters is another great gift idea. The huge selection of more than 80
characters are highly collectable and the perfect complement to Le Toy
Van’s painted wooden play sets.
All Le Toy Van painted wooden toys are designed in the UK and
ethically manufactured in Indonesia.
Boxer
Hall 5, Stand E30
Tel: +44 (0)1274 533 511
Web: www.boxergames.com
Boxer has added new titles to the
successful STONEWITWORDS
range; four new mug titles and three
new pink money boxes. Real stone
engraved plaques come with wit, wisdom and wise sayings. Each plaque
comes with a mini “easel” to display on a desk or table or they can be
fixed to the wall. Also in the range are quality ceramic piggy banks to
encourage saving for, “Holiday Money”, “Retirement Fund”, “New Shoe
Fund” and others. There are a total of 19 piggy banks to choose from.
A large ceramic mug completes the range with 18 different titles ranging
from, “The Boss”, “Starter Fluid”, “This Is My Mess and I Love It”.
Linda Macdonald
Linda Macdonald designer jewellery
Many new collections have
been created for this
spring/summer. Romantically
inspired by our beautiful British
countryside, these designs have
won the heart of all jewellery
lovers. New ranges include rings,
necklaces, earrings and bangles.
All the jewellery can mix and
match and is supplied with
beautiful branded packaging.
Designed and made near
Loch Lomond in Scotland.
Future Trade Fairs
• Scotland’s Spring Trade Fair - SECC, Glasgow
24th-26th Jan 2010 Stand F100
• Spring Fair Birmingham - NEC Birmingham
7th-11th Feb 2010 Hall 18 Stand DQ72
• Harrogate Gift Fair - Harrogate International Centre
18th-21st July 2010 Stand DP1-71
• International Jewellery London - Earls Court
5th-8th Sept 2010 Stand B29
Linda Macdonald Jewellery
Tel. 01389 841 848
Fax. 01389 849 094
www.lindamacdonaldjewellery.com
giftfocus 125

Wind Designs
Hall 5, Stand F72
Tel: +44 (0)844 257 1180
Web: www.wind-designs.com
Wind Designs is
passionate about
getting kids
active and prides
itself on offering
a wide range
of quality toys
that do just that.
Supplying a wide
range of juggling
equipment,
children’s and
sports kites, unicycles, yo-yos, plus wind and flying toys the ranges
encourage both creative play, and above all fun.
With sole distribution rights for many of the top selling active
toys namely Funtrix Juggling sets, Zing Air flying toys Wind Designs
is a one stop shop for active toy needs.
The exciting range for 2010, includes the New Zing Air range
including ‘Zartz’- soft flying dart set, Helirang - indoor helicopter
boomerang, and the Zyclone blaster, great fun for all the family.
From Funtrix they have new juggling and yo-yo sets, both
including DVDs with loads of tricks. Also a range of ‘Ben 10 Alien
Force’ and ‘Toy Story’ flying toys.
126 giftfocus
HALL 5
Schleich
Hall 5, Stand A60/B61
Tel: +44 (0)1279 870 000
Web: www.schleich-s.co.uk
Schleich’s fantasy Bayala
collection comes complete
with elves, dragons, Pegasus
and unicorns and provides
a perfect transition for
children who have already
collected Schleich’s animals and other lifelike sets.
A new tribe joins the growing world of Bayala for 2010 – Arelan
– each character with its own animal companion. These magical figures
are partly mutated with their animal to create the fantasy characters.
The new Tinuveel elf riding set combines aspects from both Schleich’s
horses from the Farm Life range and Bayala collections. The set includes
an elf, saddle, horse-gear and reins for the unicorn, but also fit all
middle-sized Farm Life horses too.
Feya has always been one of the most popular Bayala characters and
2010 sees this figure presented in a standing pose, which will enhance
the story during play. New figures, Marween, Lindariel and Florindel all
have a domestic animal as a companion, adding yet another dimension
to the play value of the Bayala range.
Interplay
Hall 5, Stand A65
Tel: +44 (0)1628 488 944
Web: www.interplayuk.com
Billed as ‘the world’s first 4D jigsaw puzzle’, the Cityscape Time Puzzle
will be the highlight of Interplay’s stand at Spring Fair this year.
The innovative new jigsaw puzzle, which recreates the city of London,
not only has three dimensions of length, width and depth, but an added
fourth dimension of time. A Time Poster included with the puzzle
guides the player through history, adding buildings along the way in their
correct chronological order.
The first layer of the Cityscape Time Puzzle includes over 500 jigsaw
pieces and creates the landscape, while the second support layer
provides the location of key areas including historical buildings and parks.
The third layer comprises the buildings – and with preparations well
underway for the 2012 Olympics – the player will get an insider’s view
of the panoramic changes this international event will have on the UK’s
capital city.
Cityscape 4D Time Puzzle range currently includes New York and will
soon be joined by Chicago, Hong Kong, Las Vegas, Paris and Toronto.
Interplay will also be launching a new Boys Science range at Spring
Fair, in line with its already popular Girls Science kits and also the
ultimate ant habitat – the Ant-O-Sphere.
Little Star Creations
Hall 5, Stand B29
Tel: +44 (0)208 498 7226
Web: www.littlestarcreations.co.uk
Little Star Creations will be
exhibiting a new range of products
including the first ever licensed
character headphones designed
specifically for young children.
Since its launch less than a year
ago, key licences have been signed
with popular children’s brands
including Peppa Pig, Groovy Chick,
Dora the Explorer, Little Princess,
Mr Men, and most recently, Ben 10
with strong retail distribution including HMV and Amazon.
Other innovative products in the new range include children’s
magnetic height charts, which include foam backed height chart,
magnetic play pieces and a sticker sheet to record dates and use as
growth markers. Licences signed for the height charts include popular
pre-school characters such as CBeebie’s Big and Small, Nick Jr’s Dora
the Explorer, Little Princess, Peppa Pig and more.
Having already achieved FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
certification in 2009, Little Star Creations looks forward to an exciting
year ahead as it aims to further enhance the company’s environmental
focus and continue developing expansion plans for its portfolio of
licences and product launches throughout 2010.

NEC
Spring Fair
Hall 4 D86 / E87
Contact details: 01778 561111 (T) 01778 561115 (F)
enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk | www.doradesigns.co.uk
metalplanet
Inspired Gifts for Special Occasions
A breath of fresh air …
Pebbles 66p
A great range of special
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020 8440 2468
Spring Fair NEC Hall 4 C28

HALL 5
Winning Moves UK Ltd
Hall 5, Stand B64
Tel: +44 (0)207 262 9696
Web: www.winningmoves.co.uk
Every pack is back with Top
Trumps Tournament, the game
for all Top Trumps fans, young
and old! Favourite packs,
whether it’s the latest Harry
Potter or Ben 10 deck, classic
Sports Cars or Horror pack from years ago, they all find their home in
the Tournament.
Thanks to the brand new Top Trumps Hub - the biggest development
in Top Trumps history - every pack can be played again and again in
the Tournament.
The Tournament is a whole new way to play the classic card game,
breathing new life into old packs and letting them go head-to-head
with the latest titles. It’s simple to play and fast-paced fun – just load up
the hub with six packs, spin the spinner and race your way through the
mini-games to reach the Tournament final and be the champion!
Top Trumps Tournament comes with six exclusive packs that won’t be
found anywhere else – Movies, TV, Pop Stars, Top Toys, Sporting Heroes,
and the WOW pack!
Brainstorm
Hall 5, Stand A61
Tel: +44 (0)1200 445 113
Web: www.brainstormltd.co.uk
Brainstorm has secured the exclusive distribution of two exciting new
ranges for launch at Spring Fair 2010.
Award-winning Citiblocs are high quality wooden construction blocks,
precision cut from high-grade pine sourced from certified renewable
forests in New Zealand. Every piece is the same shape and size and
building requires no glue, no mess, no connectors or no magnets, just
gravity and balance.
Citiblocs will be available in packs of 50, 100, 200 and 300 blocks.
Mostaix is a brand new range of art and craft products for children
to make mosaic-style pictures. Using small plastic tiles of different shapes,
children can build up pictures, graded to their age and ability. The snap
in pieces stay in place without the use of glue or ironing.
Mostaix will be available in three sizes. The 264-piece pocket-money
set is suitable for beginners and younger children. The mid-price set
containing 1,332
pieces for slightly
older children and
the 4,440-piece
set will appeal to
craft enthusiasts.
There will be 18
different pictures to
choose from.
NICI
Hall 5, Stand E35
Tel: +44 (0)7776 255 042
Web: www.nici.de
NICI’s Spring Fair stand is set to be
bursting at the seams with a raft of new
product launches for 2010. Now owned
by SVP (Strategic Value Partnerships),
the plush, gift and collectable brand has
been completely revitalised.
The creative design team has
developed brand new character lines to
run alongside already successful ranges
such as Jolly Mah, Forest Friends and Wild Friends. The established
ranges get updates of their own too.
First up for Spring Fair is a completely new character, Rabbit
Carrotti, created especially for Easter. Rabbit Carrotti and his Easter
chick friend appear in all manner of guises from cushions to key
rings. Matilda’s Beach is a new range for summer, complete with
turtles, crabs and clams.
NICI’s also been quick to respond to one of the UK’s latest
passions – Spring Fair will see the launch of a full family of furry
meerkats to collect, with the cuddly creatures available in five
different sizes, plus one to tuck away in your pocket, an adorable
MagNICI meerkat.
NICI sells in over 60 countries globally, its UK partner is Boom
International Ltd.
Great Gizmos
Hall 5, Stand D58/E59
Tel: +44 (0)1293 543 221
Web: www.greatgizmos.co.uk
Building on its already popular Green
Science range in 2010, Great Gizmos
is introducing some new kits teaching
youngsters the value of recycling as well as
discovering some amazing scientific facts.
The Green Science Dynamo Robot
kit throws out the batteries and shows
children how to turn everyday household items into the coolest robot
which is powered by a hand driven generator.
The Green Creativity Plastic Bag Monster kit turns plastic carrier
bags into loveable monster puppets; while leftover bottles can be
transformed into a light with the Green Creativity Recycled Bottle Light
kit– just two of the great environmentally friendly craft projects on offer
from Great Gizmos this year.
Alternatively, the My Very Own Fairy Light kit offers girls chance to
create their own light to hang on their bedroom wall. The three-in-one
kit also allows them to create a magical light up fairy wand or a glowing
rose ring.
Girls will also enjoy the Paint Your Own Porcelain Trinket Box and
Paint Your Own Porcelain Mini Shoe Vase.
spring fair
giftfocus 129

130 giftfocus
HALL 6
Fallen Fruits
Hall 6, Stand F28/G29
Tel: +44 (0)1584 873 377
Web: www.fallenfruits.co.uk
Fallen Fruits has added many new products to its Secrets du Potager
range for 2010.
The range has everything needed to plant your own kitchen garden
– even for those who only have a balcony or windowsill.
The growing sets contain a white Raku pot and saucer, soil, seeds,
plant marker and instructions for growing herbs and fruit. The company
has also created a range of accessories and gift sets to help prepare
teas and infusions, concoct aromatic oils and vinegars, pesto, jams and a
mojito set to make your own cocktail.
Salco Group plc
Hall 6, Stands D14/E15,
E14/F15, F14/G15, D28/E29,
E28/F29
Tel: +44 (0)1279 439 991
Web: www.salcogroup.com
This year brings some
exciting additions to Salco’s
stylish home interiors ranges.
Landon Tyler will offer
exciting new looks in wall
art, cushion covers, throws,
ceramic and wood. The
company will be injecting rich, sumptuous and warm tones into the
natural palette as well as incorporating beautiful shades of pistachio,
lemon, plum and aqua across the range. Landon Tyler Classical
Romance adds a romantic French country feel with a white and
cream palette and soft delicate patterns and textures.
Luna, a sleek and stylish collection with an emphasis on metallics,
mirror, glass and crystal, incorporates black and white for a
glamorous feel as well as adding subtle sophisticated etched and
frosted motifs.
The company has expanded its garden range for 2010 with a
whole new look based on English Country, which incorporates a
cream and green palette with antiqued and distressed finishes.

Puckator
Hall 6, Stand C14/D15
Tel: +44 (0)8702 401 981
Web: www.puckator.co.uk
Puckator will be launching over 1,000 new lines at this year Spring Fair.
New product launches include exclusively designed Beach Hut ceramics
and cotton bags and new additions to the best selling UK Souvenir
range including London Bus tea pot and Big Ben ceramics.
Fiesta Collectables
Hall 6, Stand D11
Tel: +44 (0)1460 242 464
Web: www.fiesta
collectables.com
Fiesta Collectables will be
launching new ceramic
tile designs for 2010 from
a variety of new artists.
They will be
showcasing a variety
of products to suit all
tastes. Ranges will include
Twinkle Snow Globes,
metal wall decor & metal
animals, metal spinners,
Garry White fairies
& insect wall plaques,
greenmen, bronze horses
& hares by Harriet
Glen, Design Clinic,
Alchemy, witchcraft items
by Tina Tarrant.
Heartwarmers Limited
Hall 6, Stand C44
Tel: +44 (0)1613 037 722
Email: tom@heartwarmers.co.uk
Heartwarmers is a leading UK supplier of sentimental and humorous
giftware. Following successful spring & autumn shows in 2009, the
company is excited to be releasing new ranges for the 2010 Spring Fair.
The firm has
made additions
to its bestselling
‘Moneyspinner 1’
range that it hopes
will be a big hit
with both new and
existing clients.
giftfocus 131

CLERE CONCEPTS
One of two brand new stationery ranges
see these and other exciting new gift ideas
at Spring Fair, Hall 4, Stand E5
T: 01635 297911 F: 01635 299237 E: info@clere-concepts.co.uk W: www.clere-concepts.co.uk
NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH
introducing
THE BUG STORE
Real Bugs Preserved Forever!
A new range of pendants, bracelets and key rings
to suit all ages - young & younger!
Come and see the range of 150 diff erent Bug and Sealife models.
All retail at ‘pocket money’ prices! Models include incredible ‘Glow-in-the-dark’
versions and adjustable length cords are on both pendants and bracelets.
Spring Fair, Birmingham ~ Hall 18 Stand B58
Tel: 0118 947 1405 Fax: 0118 947 1605
sales@thebugstoreuk.co.uk
www.thebugstoreuk.co.uk
Jade House • 25-27 Farnham Drive • Reading • Berkshire • RG4 6NY

HALL 6
Heart of the Country
Hall 6, Stand A11
Tel: +44 (0)1543 481 612
Web: www.heartofthecountryltd.co.uk
Heart of the Country is launching the
stunning Votivo’s Dalian collection, which
comes in a beautiful black hand-cut glass.
The real magic of the Dalian collection
happens when the candle is lit and Votivo’s
distinct and delicately composed fragrances
can be enjoyed.
Greenleaf Scented Sachets range has been bolstered for 2010 with
the addition of the boxed jar candle as well as the glass reed diffuser. In
addition to the boxed candle come two brand new fragrances, Garden
Breeze, a jasmine, rose, and citrus combination as well as Valencia an
orange and jasmine combination with a musk and light floral base.
This year also sees the launch of four brand new fragrances in the
popular Bridgewater Candles.
The eco-friendly candles come
in a beautiful jar with clean burn,
fantastic colours, removable hang
tag, long burn times, and most
importantly strong, distinctive
fragrances. The new aromas are Lilly
of the Valley, Sunshine, Water Lily
and Sangria taking the Bridgewater
choice to 40 different fragrances.
Marvell’s Ltd
Hall 6, Stand H32/J33
Tel: +44 (0)1939 210 800
Web: www.marvells.com
Marvell’s Ltd, an industry
leader in the wholesale
gifts market, will once
again be showing off its
latest lines at Spring Fair
in 2010.
The company is known
for its diverse range of
stock and the new year
looks to be no exception.
Their selection of
Wall Art sees over 150 new lines being unveiled at the fair alongside
old favourites and the popular Top 20 best sellers. New lines also
benefit from the recent 12 month warranty for outdoor use that was
established on the range and are again made with up to 90 per cent
recycled materials.
The collection features abstract shapes, flowing lines, bright colours
and twisted wire, producing all kinds of wall art be it a soaring butterfly,
a swinging saxophone or a forest of skeletal, wind-bent trees.
HHJ Trading Ltd
Hall 6, Stand J28
Tel: +44 (0)208 309 4790
Web: www.hhj-trading.co.uk
HHJ Trading Ltd is a UK
manufacturer of framed art,
mirrors and multi aperture
photo-frames.
The range is updated on a
regular basis every six to eight
weeks and the spring 2010
collection will be presented at Spring Fair.
As well as UK produced products the company also supply a wide
range of photo frames imported from the Far East, including the eco
friendly range of photo frames Cellalin.
Rainstick Trading
Hall 6, Stand C01
Tel: 0800 567 7467
Web: www.rainsticktrading.com
Rainstick Trading will be
introducing a new range of
Peruvian basketware. Sourced in
the remote Cajamarquilla region
in the north of the country, the
range includes functional designs,
such as containers, placemats,
bowls and trays as well as quirky
fun items like bright woven
flowers. Also just arrived is the
new Fruits of the Forest display, a group of items all derived from
the Rainforest area of South America.
Tilnar Art
Hall 6, Stand A38
Tel: +44 (0)1277 362 815
Web: www.tilnarart.co.uk
Fair trade supplier, Tilnar Art, will be showing its 2010 ranges. It will be
the company’s first chance to show some of Besmo and MO-HOme’s
products following its acquisition of Besmo in August 2009. Many of
Besmo and MO-HOme’s best sellers are now back in stock.
The Besmo products on display will include
the Animal Authentics collection of leather
elephants and hippos, the Maroc collection of
recycled lanterns and log tyre baskets, the South
African range of freedom chickens and recycled
products, and stone sculptures from Kenya.
The MO-HOme Bamboo collection will
also be on display together with Tilnar Art’s
popular ranges of wooden giraffes, Shona
stone sculptures, recycled tin, Raku pottery and
recycled handbags.
spring fair
giftfocus giftfocus 133 133

When 2010’s Spring Fair opens
thousands of micro enterprises, as
well as household names, will all be
seizing the opportunity to market new
designs and products from this exciting
international launch pad.
After almost a decade of high profile
presence and support as an ACID
(Anti Copying in Design) accredited
show, Louise Young, managing director
of Emap Connect Home & Gift
comments: “With events ranging from
gift, technology, architecture to fashion
Emap Connect as the UK’s largest
exhibition organiser; has terms of
exhibiting that recognise intellectual
property rights and we work with all
third parties including ACID to support
this at our shows.”
Dids Macdonald, ACID’s CEO
explains more...
Inevitably, with the launch of new products
comes the risk of copying, through those
who seek the fast track to market. One of
the key benefits of ACID accreditation is an
on-the-spot mediation service, should any
exhibitor discover a look alike. Since the ACID
accreditation programme started nearly a
decade ago, from over 2,000 mediations, less
than 30 per cent have required further legal
action and of those, many were settled easily
by obtaining legal undertakings or sending
letters before action.
Over the past decade, many exhibition
organisers have realised the benefits of having
an independent complaint handling service
on site, should copying incidents occur, and
this has seen a significant reduction in copying
complaints at Spring Fair. Positively, through
the exhibition protocol, a significant number
of commercial relationships have prospered
which may have otherwise ended up in court.
ACID accreditation provides added value and
a unique selling point to all exhibitors who rely
on the fact that if copying occurs, there is easy
access to help and information. Accreditation
is working towards raising standards and
creating a safer marketing environment which
exhibitors and visitors will want to return
to. It is sending a strong message to copyists
134 giftfocus
HALL 7
ACID (Anti Copying In Design) will once again be on hand at Spring Fair 2010
at the entrance to Hall 7, ready to dispense valuable help and advice in the fight
against copying.
that ACID accredited organisers have a zero
tolerance policy toward plagiarism. Using the
ACID accreditation logo across all marketing
initiatives provides a compelling means by
which exhibition organisers can communicate
a tough stance on copying, essential to those
who spend thousands of pounds on stand
investment, whilst remaining neutral and
impartial to all their exhibitors/investors.
So how can exhibitors best protect
themselves from copying?
“Say so!” One of the easiest and most
effective means is to use your website and
marketing material to convey an anti copying
message, better still if it is accompanied by the
powerful ACID logo (a licensed trade mark for
use by members).
Ensure you have signed and dated evidence
of your design ownership at the fair or have
evidence to say that you have a valid licence
to market the products on display on your
stand. Ideally you should obtain a registered
UK or registered Community design. Having
a registered UK or Community design gives a
monopoly right, the latter in 27 member states
for 25 years. Visit the websites www.ipo.org.uk
and www.oami.europa.eu to find out more.
Display a ‘No Photography’ sign. All Spring
Fair exhibitors will find a no photography sign,
provided by ACID, in their welcome pack on
the first day. Remember with phone cameras
your designs can be sent across the world in
seconds and could be mass-produced before
you even pack up your stand!
What should you do if you discover a
copy of one of your products?
Call the ACID helpline immediately on
07956 229876 or visit the ACID stand at the
entrance to Hall 7. Help will be immediately
on hand to advise you on the best course of
action. It’s important to remember that careful
handling of your dispute can have a swift
and satisfactory outcome. Don’t ever accuse
someone of copying you because in UK law
you may find that should the complaint be
groundless you could be sued yourself!
CALL TO ACTION – anyone who feels
strongly about design theft can visit the ACID
website www.acid.eu.com and sign two
Number 10 petitions campaigning to improve
design laws.

Spring Fair, 7 th -11 th February
Hall 4 B35
Introducing Lucy Tom’s exciting new collection for 2010.
Patriotic fl ags, bright and fun polkadots, clean and fresh checks, fl orals,
babycords and our best selling embroidered collection revamped.
New products including
children’s bootbags,
beanbags and fresh new
kitchen textiles
www.lucytom.com e: sales@lucytom.com t: 01666 826766

Yankee Candle®
Hall 7, Stand D37/C38
Tel: +44 (0)1454 454 555
Web: www.yankeecandle.co.uk
Brush off the winter blues
and pack away the last of the
festive season to make way for
the new 2010 spring fragrance
launch from Yankee Candle®.
Combine the fragrances
into existing displays or make a
stand-alone area merchandised
with floral props to make an
eye-catching display in store.
Beautiful Day is a
reminder of how good life is
with an enchanting mix of sunny fruits, pretty flowers and spicy herbs
while Early Sunrise captures the crisp aroma of a new day dawning
with a clean lemony citrus scent with hints of ginger and tea.
Encourage customers to Drift Away or entice them with Ocean
Blossom, a blend of sea salt, lotus and water lily.
Ian Snow Ltd
Hall 7, Stand C18/D19
Tel: +44 (0)1271 858 649
Web: www.iansnowwholesale.com
Ian Snow imports a wide range of gifts, clothing, soft furnishings and
fashion accessories from India, Nepal and Thailand.
A range of 100 per cent recycled coiled magazine paper pots is an
exciting new addition to the company’s existing recycled range.
The company reports that 2009 was a very strong year with
turnover up substantially on 2008, with high demand for quirky and
colourful handmade products. The company also became BAFTS
recognised importers.
HALL 7
Malini
Hall 7, Stand A18
Tel: +44 (0)208 740 3111
Web: www.malini.com
Malini’s new range represents a new benchmark for stylish cushions,
throws and bedspreads that make the perfect gift offer.
As a leading supplier of soft furnishings to some of the UK’s
most prestigious retailers, Malini continues with its winning formula
of product groups co-ordinated by vibrant colour stories and
textures. This co-ordination makes it simple to create a stunning
visual impact in-store as well as providing great opportunities for
cross-selling.
Highlights are the stunning Malini bedpacks that have been
selected to dress the bed offer in the newly refurbished Bed Studio
at Harrods. Style, quality and superb pricing are the basis of this
sophisticated range.
Joe Davies
Hall 7, Stand A20/B21
Tel: +44 (0)1619 756 300
A constant supply of
fresh, innovative gifts is
crucial for gift retailers in
the current climate. With
this in mind, Joe Davies,
specialist suppliers to the
independent sector, will
introduce over 2,000 new
products on their spacious
stand at the Spring Fair.
The company claims
to have the largest range
of new products at the
show and will exhibit over
7,000 up-to-date gifts
and jewellery items on its
stand. All are attractively
displayed and clearly priced to make buying as easy as possible.
spring fair
giftfocus 137

Shearer Candles
Hall 7, Stand F01
Tel: +44 (0)1414 451 066
Web: www.shearer-candles.com
Shearer Candles will be showcasing
a number of exciting ranges including
Delice Aroma.
Brighten up any room or party
with eye-catching novelty candles with
mouth-watering scents.
Recipe scents include Strawberry
Milkshake, Tropical Smoothie, Kiwi &
Lime and Banoffee Pie.
Spring Couture 2010 offers stunning
white wax candles infused in a variety of decadent scents with eye
catching packaging to add glamour to any room.
Scents include Persian Lime & Grapefruit, Lavender & Lime, White
Jasmine Tea, Amber & Rose Fondant, Vanilla & Coconut and the new
China Rose.
The Tropical Spa collection of candles adds a touch of paradise,
infused with exotic scents and vibrant colours, all inspired by wonderful
trips to Thailand.
Evocative scents include Watermelon, Frangipani, Ginger Lily and
Tropical Coconut.
The candles come in unique cosmetic spa jars with stylish white
screw top lids.
Black Ginger
Hall 7, Stand D22
Tel: +44 (0)1189 403 731
Web: www.blackginger.co.uk
This season sees Black Ginger introducing lots of new lines, perfect
for him, for her and for the house. Add to that all the old favourites
for a collection that’s a must see.
The company offers an array of products for Mother’s Day,
Easter and all those special occasions, with collections of cookware,
giftware, jewellery, scarves and much more.
138 giftfocus
HALLS 7&8
black + blum
Hall 8, Stand E03
Tel: +44 (0)207 633 0022
Web. www.black-blum.com
A brand new lunch box concept created by black+blum will be
launched under the brand name “box appetit”. The design will be
accompanied by a lunchbox bag and lunchbox recipe book.
Box appétit is designed to be functional and to complement food.
Features include:
• hot and cold food separated (no more hot salads!)
• salad sauce / ketchup pot (no more soggy salads)
• lid sauce dipping area (no more sachets or messy desks)
• microwave safe
• dishwasher safe
Jellycat
Hall 8, Stand D12/E11
Tel: +44 (0)207 603 9383
Web: www.jellycat.co.uk
Start the new year
with a splash of colour,
a large spoonful of fun
and a dusting of fluff!
Jellycat launches its 2010
collection at Spring Fair
with brand new designs
that won’t fail to delight
and excite. There is some
silly softness for all ages
in the Jellycat range, an
array of playfulness in the
JellyKitten range and an assortment of functional fabulousness in the
accessories range, Catseye. Look out too for some very special bunnies,
bouncing bashfully where no bunnies have bounced before!

140 giftfocus
Launching at the Spring Fair the Authentic
range of 100% recycled glassware.
Jarapa
The best choice and widest range
of recycled glass.
0845 519 1982 / 07939 555737
www.jarapa.co.uk
1 Manor Gardens, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9QR
HALLS 8 & 9
Parlane International
Hall 8, Stand C2/D3
Tel: +44 (0)1451 812 700
Web: www.parlane.co.uk
This year at the Spring
Fair, Parlane is daring to
be different, not only with
products selected for its
range but also increasing the
choice by adding over 1,000
new items.
Visit the stand and travel
from spring to spring
wedding, soft pretty colours,
beautiful handmade mulberry
paper flowers and butterflies
amongst potted plants.
Summer brings travel to
the Summer Cottage, clean
and fresh, Cape Cod, sail
boats, driftwood and wildlife,
nostalgic with treasured, wellworn
appeal.
Fludes S.H. Ltd
Hall 9 Stand F23
Tel: +44 (0)1455 230 833
Web: www.thejimbamber
collection.com
Fludes acquired the Ramblers
Country Clothing brand last year
and will be showing a brand
new collection of English made
kids’ and ladies’ garments, aimed
at independent gift outlets and
garden centres.
The ladies' collection offers
high quality traditional designs,
featuring garden themes or pets
and wildlife scenes in detailed
embroideries.
Boys’ designs range from the
F1-inspired race car designs by
Jim Bamber, through diggers,
trucks and police cars many
featuring integrated, washable,
noise-units.
For the girls there are horse
and pony designs as well as cute
kittens, with noise-units as well as
simpler, fashionable styles.

The Giftware Association’s
Gift of the Year House
will be in Hall 9 – bigger
and better – showcasing
the winning and highly
commended products from
the highly successful 2009
competition.
For the second year
running Gift Focus Magazine
and sister title Attire
Accessories are headline
sponsors of the prestigious
awards. Drop by the show
house to view the winners and pick up a copy of the magazines.
The 2010 competition is open to all UK gift and home related
companies, just visit the website www.giftoftheyear.co.uk to enter.
Another major attraction in Hall 9 is the New Product Showcase,
which will turn the spotlight on products from across the show.
The Original Candy Company
Hall 9, Stand H19
Tel: +44 (0)1285 711 227
Web: www.originalcandyco.com
Spring Fair sees
the unveiling
of UK based
Chocca Mocca’s
new packaging,
commissioned
specifically to
provide a more
contemporary twist
to an already refined
chocolate collection.
Over-fussy, hand
tied ribbons have
now made way for
more stylish packs,
striking photography
and fonts with subtle
colour coding to
help fine chocolate
enthusiasts fully
appreciate the depth and diversity of the Chocca Mocca collection.
Chocca Mocca is also using the redesign to broaden its appeal
with the arrival of its caramelised whole hazelnuts smothered in
dusted milk chocolate and some delightfully dark chocolate balls
dipped in a delicious mint chocolate.
Serving high-end department stores, discerning delis and fine
food stores, the Chocca Mocca range includes real fruits and nuts
covered in fine dark, milk and white chocolate.
working ethically
Spring Fair - Hall 18, Stand 18A • Pure - Stand K32
jewellery • fashion accessories • display stands
www.lotusfeet.co.uk e:lotus@lotusfeet.co.uk t:07786387906
giftfocus 141

HALLS 17 & 18
Jewellery Show set to sparkle
The Jewellery Show has been comprehensively edited for its 2010 relaunch, following extensive consultation
with buyers who visit the show.
Halls 17 & 18 will now be dedicated to jewellery, while fashion accessories are located within their own
distinct area in hall 19, allowing buyers to source more effectively and encourage crossover from other halls.
Over 30 designer-makers will have their own area in the revitalised Design Quarter in Hall 18. They will
be surrounded by a ‘village’ of design-led jewellers from both the UK and overseas, who will be exhibiting
inspirational collections across precious metals, gemstones, silver and mixed materials.
The layout of the show has been further modifi ed to create a ‘buzzy’ area for smaller stands. Aisles that
point to entrances will be widened to aid navigation and, across the centre of the show, a wide Parisian
boulevard-style aisle will feature open, spacious stands.
A Jewellery Show VIP buyer programme for 2010 will include a VIP area where buyers can take time out
to relax, grab a tea or coffee, access the internet or just drop off their bags.
One of the most exciting new features for the 2010 show is the Pandora Catwalk Café.
Three catwalk shows a day will feature live models displaying one-off pieces and new season’s designs from
The Jewellery Show’s exhibitors.
We talk to the event director, Julie Driscoll to fi nd out more…
Picture courtesy of Dower & Hall
Hall 18, Stand DQ130
spring fair
giftfocus 143

show time HALLS 17&18
We speak to Julie Driscoll, event director of The Jewellery Show, to fi nd out about the
forthcoming event...
What new
features can
visitors to
The Jewellery
Show expect
to discover in
2010?
The Catwalk
Café is a
dedicated
jewellery
catwalk and
central café that
will sit at the heart of halls 17 and 18. We
will feature models displaying one-off pieces
and new season designs from Jewellery Show
exhibitors. Designer-makers will be based in
The Design Quarter in Hall 18. This area will
be made easily identifi able to buyers with its
own special branding and a unique look.
144 giftfocus
Have any changes been made to The
Jewellery Show in response to feedback
from visitors and exhibitors who
attended the fi rst event?
The new look Jewellery Show is all about
focus. We know from our research that there
are over 15,000 buyers who have a primary
or secondary interest in our jewellery offering.
We intend to make their buying experience
as easy and enjoyable as possible. To this end
we’ve decided to situate The Jewellery Show
in halls 17 and 18, with fashion accessories in
Hall 19. The show will have its own distinct
entrance branding and its own website and
bi-monthly newsletter. Also, there will be
heightened security to ensure the safety of all
exhibitors and visitors.
How can visitors to The Jewellery
Show use the exhibition to boost their
business in the current economic
climate?
In today’s competitive market it’s important
that retailers make the most of every
opportunity to get ahead. That means
constantly innovating, planning their buying
and spending the time to source the newest
products before their competitors. That’s
why a visit to The Jewellery Show is essential,
providing all the right tools to maximise
business. It’s simply the best way to discover
exciting new ranges and keep abreast of new
trends in the jewellery market.
Do you have any exciting new
exhibitors or product launches at the
show?
Dower & Hall have returned to the show
for 2010 and there will be over 63,000 new
product launches. We have also secured
several designer makers including Sheila Fleet,
Linda Macdonald, Kokkino and Hot Metal.
Do you have any free seminars and
networking events planned?
Yes, a programme of seminars will be running
featuring industry experts giving practical
advice on all elements of running a successful
jewellery business. A daily happy hour at the
catwalk café between 5pm and 6pm will allow
exhibitors and visitors to network within a
relaxed and friendly environment.
All images from Dower & Hall
What would you say are the main
attractions of The Jewellery Show for
retailers?
Many fashion retailers are now diversifying
their offering. Selling items from Pandora
Jewellery alongside a Marta Ponti bag is now
commonplace on the highstreet. Fashion
brands at The Jewellery Show include Pilgrim,
Pandora, Nomination, Aagaard, and Gecko.
In fact, fashion accessory retailers can source
from 90,000 new products across the show!
How would you like to see The
Jewellery Show develop over the next
few years?
We aim to deliver the wow factor for buyers
in 2010 with our catwalk and focus on
trends, and we will continue to work with
retailers and our exhibitors to build a show
that delivers a great buying experience at an
international level.
Further Information
Visit www.thejewelleryshow.com to fi nd
out more.

ISF - Hall 18 Stand A01
0800 731 4389 sales@cavendishfrench.com www.cavendishfrench.com

Weston Beamor
Hall 17, Stand N48
Tel: +44 (0)1216 784 131
Web: www.weston
beamor.co.uk
Weston Beamor’s stand
position on the Emagold
Pavilion reflects the
company’s commitment to
developing its CAD/CAM
and casting services.
The company formed in
1947 has comprehensive
experience in casting
precious metal alloys to customers’ requirements by the traditional ‘Lost
Wax’ method.
A range of alloys in silver, bronze, gold, platinum and palladium are
available to cast replicas from the customer’s original master pattern.
The new CAD design service complements the company’s
established Rapid Prototyping service, allowing the designer’s concepts
to be created in a three-dimensional form, which can then be replicated
in the precious metal of their choice. CAD designers are also able to
send their completed STL files for Rapid Prototyping and casting.
Finer Packaging Ltd
Hall 17, Stand M58
Tel: +44 (0)8451 086 661
Web: www.finerpackaging.com
Finer Packaging has been exhibiting at Spring Fair for the past 34 years.
Manufacturers and suppliers of packaging to the jewellery and gift
trades for almost 50 years, their range has grown and diversified.
Their combination of packaging incorporates varied materials, colours
and sizes to create eye-catching displays to maximise point of sale.
Whether jewellery boxes, pouches or displays, sizes and styles are
available to meet all needs and can be customised.
HALLS 17&18
Charms UK
Hall 17, Stand N32/P33
Tel: +44 (0)1179 593 661
Web: www.charmsuk.co.uk
Charms UK has a brand new brochure out with its entire range of over
350 clip on charms and complementary jewellery.
The extensive collection features gorgeous Murano glass, coloured
enamel, crystal and cz.
The entire collection is created in sterling silver and gold plate. Charm
Links launched a new collection, which includes over 150 brand new
collectable beads.
There are also ‘Party’ and ‘Celebration’ bracelets and necklaces, ready
made pieces featuring rich warm golds or vibrant purple beads.
The Charm Links new logo bracelet made in sterling silver is a
popular new addition to the range or for a little more gold there is the
new flower clasp gold plated bracelet.
The Assay Office
Hall 18, Stand K49
Tel: +44 (0)1212 621 050
Web: www.theassayoffice.co.uk
Many jewellers are now selling Palladium. A white, platinum group,
precious metal, Palladium coincides with current consumer trends
and opens up huge opportunities to create inexpensive but
innovative pieces.
In recognition of this “new” metal hallmarking is compulsory for all
Palladium articles weighing over 1 gram as of 1 st January 2010.
The new hallmark guarantees the palladium content of an article
at a recognised international standard, 500, 950 or 999 parts per
thousand, protecting both the consumer and the jewellery industry.
Jewellers have
welcomed the mark,
expressing concern
about possible confusion
between Platinum and
Palladium. In fact the
first fineness shape
introduced by the Assay
Offices is to be replaced
as it is considered too
similar to that used for
Platinum. The straight
lined “trapezium” will be
substituted with a more
circular shape.
Palladium Badge of Office
spring fair
giftfocus giftfocus 147 147

148 giftfocus
HALLS 17&18
Sea Gems Ltd
Hall 18, Stand G6/H7
Tel: +44 (0)1736 335 840
Web: www.seagems.co.uk
Sea Gems will be unveiling
inspirational, new designs to
capture the imagination.
Successful, sterling silver
jewellery brands ‘Pure Origins’,
‘Silver Symmetry’, ‘Celtic Lands’ &
‘Mackintosh’ feature 150 exciting
new additions.
The contemporary range
is upbeat, bold, individual style statements. Silver jewellery, celebrating
the essence and romance of nature with botanically inspired, Hibiscus,
Frangipani, Daisies or sculptured natural freeform shapes.
The Celtic Lands and Mackintosh jewellery collections showcase a
burst of new, stylish models, rich in history and symbolic meaning.
Gifts feature contemporary, Mackintosh, Celtic designs, beautifully
translated to stunning effect onto pens, pillboxes, bookmarks, compact
mirrors and gift sets.
There are new ‘crystal’ pens, set with rows of sparkling stones, while
‘Celtic Magic’ colour change mood rings and pendants are a best seller.
LeJu
Hall 18, Stand DQ70
Tel: +44 (0)208 245 7570
Web: www.lejudesigns.com
A new series of shapes is
crafted for the LeJu spring/
summer 2010 season using
a range of materials to
accent their signature use of
vegetable ivory.
Ceramic beads are
dipped in 24k gold and
copper and sit with recycled
horn and an array of semiprecious
natural stones
including smokey quartz,
amazonite, recycled coral,
lava beads and serpentine.
LeJu is a world leader in the creation of jewellery using the
special Amazonian seed known as vegetable ivory, harvested from a
variety of rain forest palm trees.
Resembling elephant ivory in both colour and hardness, vegetable
ivory is the only 100 per cent sustainable alternative. The stunning
designs are brought to life by Lenny Trines, LeJu’s head designer and
the rich colours are created by staining and dying with natural plant
extracts and oils

Martick Jewellery
Hall 18, Stand C50
Tel: +44 (0)207 274 0333
Web: www.martickjewellery.com
Feminine and delicate, Martick’s
new collections for valentine’s and
spring season are sure to please.
The birds and bees are out and
about in their collections as the
first crocuses and blossoms appear.
Inspired by nature the new
story by Martick Jewellery will
refresh and revive, as the days
grow longer.
Perthshire Jewellery Co
Hall 18, Stand B10
Tel: +44 (0)1887 820 760
Web: www.joforgirls.co.uk
Jo designer silver jewellery collection for young girls and teens has it all
- charm bead collection, pendants, earrings, bangles, bracelets and clip
on charms.
The company’s outstanding success of 2009 was the Jo for Girls
charm bead collection. Especially designed for the smaller wrist but ideal
for ladies too, the collection offers cute silver charms with enamel, cz
gold plate and colourful smaller murano glass designs.
New launches in charm beads include the Alphabet Letters collection,
ice cream sundaes, and stunning shimmery colours in Murano glass.
Many classic Jo designs are now available in the charm bead collection
including their Guardian Angel.
New to the jewellery collection are cute Junior Jelly Beans and
fabulous Cup Cakes, sweetie style necklace. In response to demand,
the company has also extended its Christening collection of expandable
bangles to include several with ID plate.
giftfocus 149

Cavendish French
Hall 18, Stand A01
Tel: 0800 731 4389
Web: www.cavendishfrench.com
Sterling silver and stone set jewellery collections from Cavendish French
range from the timeless classics to bold and contemporary statement
pieces to the simply fashionable and fun. The company has a striking
new silver and resin range and wonderful sparkly crystal pieces.
Their unique, hand selected collection has something to suit every
style or gift need, with creative styling and craftsmanship from around
the world.
Linda Macdonald Jewellery
Hall 18, Stand DQ72
Tel: +44 (0)1389 841 848
Web: www.lindamacdonaldjewellery.com
Established in 1997, Linda Macdonald Jewellery supplies many shops and
galleries throughout Britain. Designed and made in the UK the delicate
and distinctive jewellery has become a best seller and is collected by
many jewellery lovers.
Inspired by the delicate detail in nature, Linda Macdonald Jewellery is
now recognised for beautiful floral patterns in silver with a hint of gold.
In particular recent collections featuring a simple daisy have become a
trademark design for the company.
150 giftfocus
HALLS 17&18
Gift Time Products
Hall 18, Stand B58
Tel: +44 (0)1189 471 405
Web: www.gift-time-products.co.uk
Gift Time Products will be showing for
the first time the new IMP918 Blue
LED watch and IMP919 Multi colour
LED watch, These are an addition to
the already successful Binary watch
introduced in late 2009.
The company will also be officially
launching The Bug Store (www.
thebugstoreuk.co.uk) at Spring Fair.
The range of over 150 items consists
of bracelets, pendant necklaces and
key rings: all featuring real bugs and
sealife encapsulated in resin. Each
pendant necklace and bracelet has a
slip knot enabling the bracelets to fit a
wide range of wrist sizes and pendant
necklaces can be worn as a choker or
opened up to 18 inches. Some of the
bugs even glow in the dark!
Nomination
Hall 18, Stand G21
Tel: +44 (0)207 225 3915
Web: www.nomination.com
Following the success of the Aqua and Aria collections, Nomination
is launching the third in the 4Elements series, the Terra (Earth)
collection, celebrating mother earth, nature and fertility.
Nomination celebrates this element with a collection that
comprises two necklaces, a bracelet, earrings and a ring with
delicately designed leaves crafted from stainless steel and made
precious with amber coloured CRYSTALLIZED Swarovski
elements to represent the essence of earth.

Over 500 models of
traditional and
contemporary walking
sticks, seat sticks
and umbrellas.
INTERNATIONAL SPRING FAIR NEC, Birmingham
7-11 February 2010 Hall 19, Stand D50
Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ
Tel 0044 (0)1460 75686 Fax 0044 (0)1460 78222
info@classiccanes.co.uk www.classiccanes.co.uk

Vizati
Hall 18, Stand D05
Tel: +44 (0)1323 485 605
Email: sales@vizati.com
This year, Vizati continues
the concept of difference
with style.
The ever increasing
range of ‘ White Satin ‘
includes some statement
pieces, guaranteed to turn heads. This designer sterling silver range
includes many distinctly organic designs, often featuring diamonds,
tanzanites, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, opals and pearls. The look is
expensive, but the price is not. Add to this a substantial collection of
opal jewellery and beautifully set dichroic glass for dazzling diversity.
Midhaven Ltd
Hall 18, Stand A30
Tel: +44 (0)1299 851 513
Web: www.midhavensilver.com
The ‘Lavish’ silver range by Midhaven promises to deliver the wow factor.
Each piece is unique and takes between three to six days to produce.
There are bold statement pieces for the more adventurous and smaller
stylish earrings and pendants for those who like a more traditional look.
New lines will be on show in four finishes - all silver, silver oxidised,
silver with yellow gold plating and silver with rose gold plating. Point of
sale unit, boxes and marketing images are available.
152 giftfocus
HALLS 17&18
Brave Designs
Hall 18, Stand F27
Tel: +44 (0)1316 230 080
Web: www.bravedesigns.com
Brave Designs supplies Native
American and south west
manufactured jewellery
specialising in traditional styles
such as liquid silver and natural
turquoise.
The company also offers a
highly contemporary gemstone
and fashion range including
silver charm beads and popular
“mini bead” bracelet.
Two of Brave Designs
top sellers for 2009 will be
featured in new styles and
variations at the 2010 Spring
Fair. Particularly the colourful Czech glass bead range that has been
selling well in earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Brave is also a strong
supplier of silver charms and silver pendants, of which the angel range is
a particular favourite.
The Alexander Collections
Hall 18, Stand A34
Tel: +44 (0)1923 771 188
Web: www.alexandercollections.co.uk
Mats Jonasson introduces his brand new ArtLight collection at
Spring Fair.
The collection of art glass sculptures will be exhibited on The
Alexander Collections’ stand, the company that also distributes
JanArt - art glass designer jewellery.
Visitors will be able to see Mats Jonasson’s unique work and also
peruse the JanArt whilst they are on the stand.
The ArtLight
Collection incorporates
Mats Jonasson’s Masq,
Wildlife and Floral
Fantasy collections
into black LED backlit
wooden boxes for wall
mounting. This is fine
art glass and a new and
innovative form of art
for the wall.
New Masq sculptures
amongst many other
new works by the world
famous Swedish artist
will also be on view.

Terramundi exclusive money pots are always the ‘must have’
item for all design led gift stores and boutiques.
Be it traditional, quirky or ‘contemporary interior’ their
designs add the perfect accent to all ‘grown up’ homes.
Showcasing New card G
Hall 4 Stand B10
Phone: 020 8808 3818
Email: moneypots@terramundi.demon.co.uk
www.terramundi.co.uk

Fragrant Finds
Hall 19, Stand B20
Tel: +44 (0)1548 580 585
Web: www.fragrantfinds.com
Fragrant Finds will be introducing
re-branded, new look, new
designs to its range of products,
all handmade in Devon, England.
Air fresheners cast in different
shapes come in a choice of
colours and fragrances. Stacking
pebbles, seashells and elephants
are just some of the new designs.
Their extensive range of
glycerine soaps come in over
40 different fragrances. Shapes
include 150g round and egg
shapes, blocks and ‘Easy Slice’
soap. Unique to Fragrant Finds, ‘Massage Sponge Soaps’, their best selling
range for 2009, will feature more new fragrances for 2010.
Room sprays, hand soaps, body lotions and body sprays come in a
selection of fruit and floral fragrances as well as popular Sea Breeze and
White Musk, offering something for everyone.
Bath Bubble and Beyond
Hall 19, Stand A21
Tel: +44 (0)1202 625 400
Web: www.bathbubbleandbeyond.com
Bath Bubble and Beyond make and sell over 250 innovative and exciting
products under their own brand.
All products are handmade in the UK with lots of great ideas for gifts.
The highly popular Chocolate (with a hint of orange) products or Lime
& Black Pepper range are always winners!
The company also contract manufacture and make products for
private label customers.
HALL 19
Classic Canes
Hall 19, Stand D50
Tel: +44 (0)146 075 686
Web: www.classiccanes.co.uk
Walking stick specialists
Classic Canes will exhibit
their widest ever range of
traditional and contemporary
walking sticks, featuring over
500 models.
New products include
patterned folding canes in
colours to suit spring fashions.
Many people treat walking
sticks as fashion accessories,
and height-adjustable folding
canes are particularly popular
as gifts. Partner, Charlotte
Gillan, says, “Every year
there is more demand for
fashionable, glamorous walking
sticks, both for ladies and
gentlemen. As well as folding canes, we will launch many formal and
dress canes, suitable for the wedding and racing seasons ahead.”
The Old Bag Company
Hall 19, Stand J18
Tel: +44 (0)1548 853 444
Web: www.theoldbagcompany.com
The Old Bag Company has designed a range of Leather Old Bags to
add to its collection.
The new range comes in Ellie Junior, Sophie and the new Emma
handbag range, available in chocolate and black with practical
pockets inside and out and all have gorgeous silk spotty linings.
Made of beautiful soft leather the new line joins the existing range
of ‘Old Bags’, beach towels, purses and mugs.
spring fair
giftfocus 155

Fatlip
Hall 19, Stand K51
Tel: +44 (0)1905 612 955
Web: www.fatlip.biz
Fatlip, supplier of
contemporary costume
jewellery and display
stands, will be launching
more gorgeous jewellery
with over 30 new
products on show.
The emphasis for the
spring launches is bold
and bright, with a variety
of shapes, both regular
and irregular, and a
mixture of short, medium
and long lengths in the necklaces.
New designs in the Amarella Collection will be exhibited. The new
lines include stand-out, vivid necklaces with a geometric vibe and large,
colourful, statement rings.
And with the popularity of multicolour designs continuing unabated
all year round, Fatlip will be launching two classic 16” style necklaces; the
rainbow pearl Skye Necklace and the sparkling Crystal Necklace, which
comes in six colours and has a matching bracelet and earrings.
Gaby’s Ltd
Hall 19, Stand M31
Tel: +44 (0)1606 869 333
Web: www.gabysfashions.com
Gaby’s new spring/summer 2010 range has an air of fun.
There is a multitude of multi coloured funky jewellery as well as
lime, apple, bright pinks, turquoise, lilac, purple and plenty of interesting
neutrals. Nautical looks of navy and white also feature strongly.
Spring 2010 is the season for bracelets, both solid bangles and
stretchy designs. Their sunglasses, handbag and watch ranges have all
been updated with more contemporary looks.
With a new livery that is carried throughout in white with silver foil
on cards, tags, free bags and tissue paper, Gaby’s has had a thorough
face lift for the year ahead.
156 giftfocus
HALL 19
The Celtic Herbal
Company
Hall 19, Stand B28
Tel: +44 (0)1758 701 883
Web: www.celtic-herbal.co.uk
Specialists in natural,
handmade, herbal soaps and
quality skincare products, Celtic
Herbal will be showing its latest
range of organic hair, body and baby products.
The sulphate and paraben-free collection includes revitalising
Shampoo with peppermint and rosemary, intensive conditioner with
peppermint and rosemary, moisturising shower wsh, moisturising hand
wash and a gentle baby shampoo and wash.
The new bath and body range, created with 100 per cent organic
ingredients, features a selection of plant based products rich with
botanicals and essential oils, all sourced from nature’s own store.
Celtic Herbal’s full range includes a collection of 100 per cent
handmade, herbal soaps, bath oils, massage oils, herbal bath blends,
natural facials, sea salts and a range specifically for babies. All products
are available as individual items or as part of carefully crafted gift sets.
Picture Case
Hall 19, Stand E48/F49
Tel: +44 (0)1371 878 047
Web: www.picturecase.co.uk
After a successful launch, Picture Case is gaining attention fast!
Their colourful designs and pictures on cases are helping put an
end to trying to find your luggage on the carrousel.
It has also given the “on flight” hand luggage a new identity,
offering a more varied and personable travel accessory.
Brand new from Picture Case are “The Cuties and Pals” range of
children’s cases.
There are five “Cuties” to choose from, a Penguin, Panda, Monkey,
Seal and Owl.
The animal trolley cases and backpack combo, attract kids from
three to 33!
The designs ensure the cases, stand out from the crowd, and with
seven different ranges, plus Manchester United soon to be added to
the football range, there is a case for everyone.

New ranges available! Organic Soap Bars,
High Quality Candle Gift Boxes for large
vases, plus two sizes of candle in glass
storage jars 350ml & 650ml.
Filled with our 100% Natural Wax and
strongly scented with a choice of pure
essential oils or a sophisticated range
of unusual fragrances for which
we have become famous!
Contemporary design & realistically priced.
To give shops a real Natural choice in the storage jar candle world.
Tel: 01225 868788
Fax: 01225 868789
contact@heavenscent.co.uk
158 giftfocus
HALL 20
Berkeley Square Cosmetics
Hall 20, Stand J07
Tel: +44 (0)8456 209 965
Web: www.bsquare.co.uk
Multi award-winning
luxury fragrance &
indulgent toiletries
company Berkeley
Square Cosmetics
will be presenting its
two ranges - Natural
Couture and Berkeley
Square 1920.
Natural Couture
features stunning
fashion images from
the V&A in a range
free of parabens, sles,
mineral oils and has won a silver award for Best New Fragrance. The
popular 1920s range features original artwork, beautiful fragrances and
nourishing formulations to create a body care range to make you feel
as glamorous and elegant as the era it was named after! Each product
has original illustrations from 1920s artists that capture the true essence
of the period and make the products look stylish and sophisticated. The
four distinctive fragrances of Fig & Cherry, White Tea, Lime & Clarysage
and Rose Petal are available in a full range of elegant and affordable
products and gift sets.
Opal London
Hall 20, Stand G10
Tel: +44 (0)208 450 7834
Web: www.opal-london.com
Harley Duckyson,
the notorious biker,
is the latest member
of the Quackers' clan
of collectable ducks
due to hit the shelves
in 2010 along with
Ductor House M.D.
Exclusively designed
and produced by Opal
London the family
of bathing ducks for
bathtime and beyond
has become a hugely
successful retailing
phenomenon.
Now 12-strong,
each handcrafted duck in the range comes in its own highly visible
display carton complete with clever catch phrases.

Jarapa
Hall 20, Stand
Tel: +44 (0)8455 191 982
Web: www.jarapa.co.uk
Jarapa will be unveiling a new range of 100 per cent recycled glass.
They will be showcasing many new items of clear and coloured glass
at this year’s show, including bowls, plates and tumblers.
Recycled cotton rugs and organic candles complete the range of
natural and recycled products at this year’s fair.
Jan Constantine
Hall 20, Stand C31
Tel: +44 (0)1270 821194
Web: www.janconstantine.com
Jan Constantine, renowned for
her vibrant hand-embroidered
cushions and accessories, will be
adding to her existing patriotic
ranges, with a new and exciting
London 2012 Collection.
Jan Constantine has been
appointed as one of two
licensees to produce London
2012 home textiles licensed
products by The London
Organising Committee of the
Olympic Games and Paralympic
Games. This first collection is
the forerunner from a series
of ranges that will include
variations on the London 2012
emblem, the London 2012 mascots and designs inspired by historic
imagery from previous Olympic Games. Using the fabulous London
2012 colour palette, featuring brilliant pinks, blues, greens, oranges, and
yellows, this collection will be a “must have” for all Jan Constantine and
London 2012 devotees.
giftfocus 159

Revival Arts of Bath
Hall 20, Stand B8a
Tel: +44 (0)1225 311 499
Web: www.revivalartsofbath.co.uk
Sir Winston Churchill
is the latest addition
to the Historical Bust
range from Revival
Arts of Bath.
In addition the
company will be
re-launching remodelled
versions of
its Shakespeare and
Nelson busts, taking
the total to seven,
including Charles
Dickens, Charles
Darwin, King Henry VIII,
and Queen Elisabeth I.
The new busts
feature relevant
carvings around the
base and each comes
with a small card
explaining the origin
and meaning of the
quotation. Hand made in Bath from British gypsum plaster, the busts are
presented in environmentally friendly packaging.
New English Teas
Hall 20, Stand A11
Tel: +44 (0)2476 691 414
Web: www.newenglishteas.com
New English Teas is introducing a
range of ‘English Icon’ tins.
Tins modelled on Big Ben and
the classic style English phone
box – both containing 20 teabags
– will be displayed along with the
new ‘Traditions of Britain’ mini tin
gift pack.
Commenting on the launches
managing director Nick
Houghton says “These are ideal
gifts for visitors to England, or
for people wanting to give a
memory of British tradition
overseas. Tea is a popular and
convenient gift. These new tins
make it something very special.”
160 giftfocus
HALL 20
Nauticalia
Hall 20, Stand A10
Tel:+44 (0)1932 244 396
Web: www.nauticaliatrade-sales.com
Nauticalia will be launching
a new collection of premium
yacht models at this year’s
Spring Fair.
The range consists of nine models of historic vessels including
Shamrock II and Endeavour of America’s Cup fame. All are highlydetailed
and made entirely from wood, metal, and cloth.
Atlantic (pictured) is one of the largest in the range. Launched in
1903, she was a fast and beautiful vessel, equipped with every luxury
imaginable at the time including the finest mahogany panelling, steam
generators, electric lights, and refrigerators.
In 1905 she made headlines by winning the Kaiser’s Cup, a
transatlantic race from Sandy Hook to The Lizard, completing the 3006mile
crossing in just over 12 days – a record which remained until 1998
– the longest-standing speed record in the history of yachting.
Gallery Direct
Hall 20, Stand H14
Tel: +44 (0)1795
439 159
Web: www.gallery
direct.co.uk
Gallery Direct, a
leading designer,
manufacturer and
worldwide supplier
of wall decor to
the trade, will be
showcasing its new
range for 2010.
Gallery has carried
over a number of the
signature ‘core’ bestsellers
and further
enhanced the range
with over 350 new
and exciting lines.
The 2010 range
is a dynamic and
eclectic mix, uniting
functionality with
contemporary design
with a colour palette
that balances both the
vibrant and soft tones
predicted for next
year’s trends.

CIMC Ltd
Hall 20, Stand B28/C29
Tel: +44 (0)8704 438 280
Web: www.cimchome.com
CIMC home is adding over
400 new products as part of
its design-led range.
The company is launching
its biggest ever giftware
range to complement its
lighting, cushions and home
accessories.
Some of the new colour
ranges include Ocean with
sapphire mosaic, teal and
petrol blue; Woodland Berry including amethyst mosaic, plum and berry
and Forest Green with moss, mustard and emerald mosaic. New gun
metal and gold ranges are available with textured accessories and wood
and metal art to accentuate their natural, organic feel.
162 giftfocus
HALL 20
Fabio Art
Hall 20, Stand B39
Tel: +44 (0)8706 265 096
Web: www.fabioart.co.uk
Fabio Art will be displaying its new range of contemporary acrylic art
panels. The latest must-have contemporary art product will be shown in
5mm, 10mm and 20mm formats.
The company will also showcase its 20mm photobloc, suitable for any
desk, mantle piece or windowsill.
The range includes stunning landscapes, ocean scenes, abstracts, florals,
sunsets and cityscapes.
The properties of acrylic allow ambient light to enter all sides
of the panel which cause the reverse mounted image to come alive. The
material enhances the colour and depth of the image causing a
3D effect.
Sunshots
Hall 20, Stand H03
Tel: +44 (0)7976 362 604
Web: www.sunshots.co.uk
Sunshots® is a new brand
delivering convenient
and affordable on-the-go
sun protection, a handy,
affordable alternative to
heavy bottles of sun cream.
Handy single-use pouches
of sun lotion providing
five-star UVA protection.
SunShots® are suitable for
immediate use and also to carry in a pocket, handbag, kids’ lunchboxes
or golf bag, to prevent being caught out in the sun. Water resistant and
anti-ageing, with a light citrus fragrance and non-greasy formulation.
Au Maison
Hall 20, Stand C28
Tel: +44 (0)1908 565 824
Web: www.aumaison.dk
Au Maison will
be presenting its
spring/summer 2010
collection where
colour is key.
The company is
introducing a large
series of colourful
hand painted boxes
and side tables
to extend the
furniture and box
range it successfully
introduced in
autumn 2009.
The Responsibility
range is also
extended with
even more exiting
new colours and
products in the
organic collection.
The company also
offers a range of handmade curtains, cleansed and restored antique
kilim rugs and a wide choice of products sourced from eco-aware
and ethical suppliers.
As well as a wide variety of cushions, quilts, blankets and table
linen, the company has also extended its oilcloth range with new
designs and colours to suit the spring and summer season.

www.fairtradewholesale.co.uk
Email: info@earthsquared.com
Tel: 01620 824 392 Spring Fair - Hall 19 Stand G18

ohemian wonderland
A year on we speak to Jenny Lockton, co-owner of Edinburgh-based lifestyle
boutique Bohemia, about weathering the recession, shaping up for 2010 and still
finding time to party…
We last spoke at Spring Fair 2009 after you
and business partner Debbie Ogg were
named Buying Team of the Year as well as
runners up for the show’s Emerging Retailer
of the Year award. What’s been happening
since and how have you been surviving the
current tough times?
The secret is one which I think everybody
who runs their own business knows - very
hard work. At the moment it is quite
relentless, everything we do has to be
examined to see if it is contributing to our
business in a positive way. It has been a
challenging year for us - we had opened a
second shop at exactly the time the recession
kicked in and the location proved difficult
due to the massive disruption in Edinburgh
because of the tram works. We made the
decision to close that shop and relocate to a
new shop which actually is much better suited
for our needs, in a better shopping area away
from the terrible disruption caused by the
tram works.
It has been a huge undertaking as we
had to move our website operations as
well as the shop. With a website open 24/7
and a nightmare with telecommunications
companies not installing our phones and
broadband for the promised date, it was a
huge job. We are very lucky to have a fantastic
team at Bohemia and everyone pitched in to
help - husbands, boyfriends and kids!
We are settling well into the new premises,
getting to know our new customers and
enjoying the extra space we have for running
the website.
What recession proofing measures have you
employed?
To be very focused on our buying. Studying
what really sells well, is different from the
high street and gives us a reasonable margin.
164 giftfocus
Working with companies which offer a
high level of service (it can be very time
consuming to be chasing companies to sort
out errors they have made in deliveries,
invoicing, handling breakages etc). The
best suppliers have systems which help to
resolve these issues speedily and it is really
appreciated at times like this when time
becomes an even more precious commodity.
Keeping an eye on staffing costs, making sure
we have enough staff to offer the highest level
of customer service and to run the business
efficiently but to avoid being overstaffed. It’s a
difficult balancing act at times like this when
you can have very good busy days followed
by quieter spells. The quieter days we take
as an opportunity to work on the ‘behind
the scenes jobs’ which can get overlooked
in busier times. It is all about creating an
efficient business which is a happy place to be
for staff and customers and building on this
for the future.

How did the opening of the new shop go?
The ‘grand opening’ for our new shop was
a great success. It was a chance to celebrate
the start of this new venture with all our
staff, customers, friends and families. It was
lovely to dress the shop up with bunting and
balloons and to see it buzzing with people.
Tell us about the theme for your party?
The Alice in Wonderland party theme felt
perfect for the occasion and in tune with
the current vogue for all things concerning
tea parties and fairy cakes. You just need to
take a wander through the aisles at a trade
fair to see teapots, tea cosies and fairy cakes
adorning a multitude of items. It fits with the
current mood of nostalgia for the days when
people took the time to brew tea in a teapot
and make their own cakes, of grannies in
flowery aprons and all things vintage. I think
the recession has contributed hugely to the
‘make do & mend’ philosophy which was very
much a part of my own childhood, with my
mum and grannies knitting and sewing all
our clothes, darning our socks, making jams,
jellies, beer and wine.
At the party we had two beautiful Alices,
my daughter Phoebe and her friend Farrah
and we had the rabbit artfully played by my
youngest child. We baked like mad, hundreds
of tiny little fairy cakes with lusciously
coloured whipped icing. Katie, normally
manning the website, baked some fantastic
mini chocolate cakes and a delicious lemon
poppy seed cake.
Do you think it is important to hold special
events and celebrations periodically – even
when times are tough?
We hold a few events throughout the year as
a way of celebrating with our customers in a
relaxed way with a glass of bubbly. We’ve held
various events such as style evenings which
are presented by a style advisor and beauty
events. As we speak we have Jo Philips, who
is the national make up artist for Paul & Joe
cosmetics, coming to spend a day with us
giving free make overs to customers and then
in the evening giving a presentation on the
new Paul & Joe beauty collection.
What are your top tips for hosting a
successful event?
Make sure all the staff are well versed in
the event and can communicate this to
customers, print up nice invites, posters,
involve local press, send out an invite to your
customer mailing list, blog it, Facebook it,
take photos and talk about it afterwards to
help promote the next event.
Does the new shop replicate the first?
The new shop is based on the same business
model as our first but there is an emphasis on
different products. We like to give each shop
its own personality to fit the aesthetics of the
building in which it is situated and to suit
the local audience. We tend to show different
clothing labels and the new shop is more
focussed on home accessories.
How badly has the recession hit your
business?
Edinburgh is a city which is founded on
banking and property and these areas have
been badly hit by the recession so it is hurting
some of our customers. We have always been
conscious of offering great quality, unique and
special products which are very good value
for money. Our aim has always been to be an
inclusive not an exclusive store, believing that
everyone should have access to the beautiful
and innovative without it costing a fortune.
The art is in the buying. With this philosophy
customers know they can come to us to find
something different at an affordable price.
People are being very considered in their
purchases and are buying less but with an
attention to quality, investment pieces.
giftfocus 165
retailer interview

ohemian wonderland
What is your key strategy for survival?
We are lucky in that our website is
performing very well and has become a key
part of our strategy to survive and grow
throughout this recession. I’ve been through
recessions before but this is the toughest I’ve
known it.
The answer for us is to keep being positive,
innovative and to make sure we keep working
to our strengths.
How vital is your online business?
With our online business we now have
customers across the globe and many of these
are becoming regular, repeat customers as we
see in our bricks and mortar stores. But going
transactional online is not an easy option,
it takes a huge investment in terms of time
and money and it is not as remote as people
sometimes think. A lot of customer service
skill, time and attention is still required. Plus
it is a fast moving environment and takes a lot
of energy to keep up!
166 giftfocus
Looking forward into 2010 what major
trends do you foresee?
Again for us it’s about following our own
path. The focus is on vintage inspired pieces,
attention to detail, handcrafting, crochet,
knitting, sewing, baking. We are selling a lot
of craft kits for children and toys which are
handmade in vintage fabrics or with hand
finished details, or traditional wooden toys,
all harking back to the kind of toys we might
have had and enjoyed as children. Owls are
everywhere - purses, bags, doorstops, money
boxes, hats, gloves, scarves, t-shirts, as are
fairy cakes. I think the ‘make do and mend’
trend is set to continue for sometime as
people reassess what it is that really has value
and that out of control consumption does not
bring happiness. Pleasure can be found in the
simplest detail, a fine button or a beautiful
fabric - things made with love and respect for
others and the environment.
As the new year gets underway how do you
see things developing in 2010?
2010 will again be about focussing on what
you do well and doing it even better. Making
sure your business is well grounded and
communicates with the customer. We will be
looking forward to a new season of trade fairs
and hoping to be inspired by innovative new
product which we can stock to delight our
customers and encourage them to spend.
Plans for the future?
To keep developing the website which is the
area of fastest growth for us at the moment
and to keep searching out new and exciting
product which is what keeps us interested and
in turn is what keeps our customers coming
back to us. Further work at developing our
own label product lines.
Bohemia’s first shop opened its doors on
March 2006 and the e-commerce website
was set up in December 2007. Online sales
now amount for roughly 50 per cent of total
sales. Bohemia Design has been named as a
finalist for a Drapers Etail Award in the ‘Best
Independent Etailer’ category.
The winners of the 2010 Awards will be
announced on 28th January 2010 at an awards
ceremony at Bloomsbury Ballroom, London. g
Further information
To find out more visit the website
www.bohemiadesign.co.uk.

accent asia
Visitors from around the globe will be gathering in London
this January for the 10 th London Asia Expo.
Now in its 10 th year, London Asia Expo,
billed as the only trade show in London that
presents competitively-priced Asian gifts,
housewares and premiums, kicks off the
important annual European trade show
circuit for the gift, houseware, premium and
toy industries.
Taking place from Monday, January 25 th
to Wednesday, January 27 th , 2010 at London’s
Olympia it will unveil a world of new and
exciting products, covering everything from
the everyday and essential to the unusual
and original.
It is the first trade show on the important
spring European buying circuit and over 6,000
trade professionals are expected to attend
to source, compare and select from over
250 companies based in Hong Kong, China,
Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Taiwan and The
Philippines that are exhibiting.
The three-day show will feature a broad
selection of original and unusual products,
with an emphasis on gifts, premiums,
housewares, fashion accessories, costume
jewellery and apparel, gift packaging
and giftwrap, toys, festive and seasonal
decorations. Advertising premiums and
souvenirs are set to be a highlight as
the sourcing of 2012 Olympic Games
merchandise draws closer.
Organised by Kenfair International
last year’s show presented 235 exhibiting
companies from nine countries and attracted
In brief
show London Asia Expo
where National Hall, Olympia, London
when 25 th -27 th January, 2010
website www.londonasiaexpo.com
admission Free of charge,
for trade buyers only
over 6,057 trade visitors from 69 countries
over four days.
In particular it attracted strong attendance
from the UK, Scandinavia, France, Germany,
Italy, Spain, Belgium, The Netherlands,
Ireland, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria
and Greece, plus Eastern Europe and the
Mediterranean countries. g
giftfocus 169
asia expo

• Jewelcity doubled sales again in 2009, so did many of its customers
• Launch of 800 new lines of jewellery, scarves and handbags
• Register online, order any time and get your best deal delivered next day
Spring Fair 19/K29
Jewelcity, Marcoms House, Abbey Barn Rd, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP11 1RL
T: 01494 444200 F: 0870 0056921 W: www.jewelcity.co.uk

In a small retail business it is critical to get the
right people for the job, as your reputation
and the image of your business depends very
much on your front-line staff – but first of all it
is important to make sure that recruitment is
definitely the right way to go in your current
situation. It’s a big commitment taking on
extra staff, so let’s look at some of the more
common reasons to recruit:
• More help and/or expertise in sales is
needed.
• More back-office support is needed, so it’s
possible to spend more time on the critical
tasks related to developing the business.
• The workload is increasing generally and
people are overstretched, so another person
is needed.
• A new market is being targeting and
someone with expertise in that area is needed.
Before making the final
decision to recruit look
at how you organise your
business and yourself.
Before making the final decision to recruit
look at how you organise your business and
yourself. Could your systems be improved so
that more effective use is made of your and
your staff’s time? Could you and your staff
‘work smarter’ by identifying and concentrating
on priorities? Or could outsourcing be a more
cost-effective solution to your staffing needs?
Bookkeeping and admin are some common
activities to outsource.
Just to reinforce the point, you need to
make sure your systems are effective and
that you and your staff are working effectively,
staffing matters
It can be a daunting prospect taking on employees - so let Peter Mulhall,
Business Link adviser, talk you through the process of finding and recruiting
the best person for your needs.
otherwise you will not get the full benefit from
a new employee – but you will incur the full
cost that is incurred.
Good planning is crucial to good
recruitment
Once you’ve decided that recruitment is
definitely the right solution you need to ask
yourself the following questions, to help you
draw up a job description:
• What role do I need to fill?
• Where does it fit within my vision and plans
for the business?
• What overall responsibilities will the new
person have?
• What specific activities and tasks will they
be doing?
• What standards of performance am I looking
for, and how will I measure the new employee’s
job performance?
• How will the new job fit in with existing roles
within the business? Who will the new person
liaise and communicate with and report to?
Next, create a mental picture of the ideal
person you would like to fill the role. This
should include their past experience, skills,
knowledge and qualifications. Identify the ideal
qualities that you are looking for in the new
employee, but also think about your minimum
requirements. This will form the basis of the
Person Specification.
However, there a couple of things to bear
in mind when thinking about the right person
for the job. Firstly, if you are too restrictive
when describing the person you are looking
for you might miss out on some less obvious
candidates who, with some training and
nurturing, could grow into the role and be
very successful. Have a picture of who you are
looking for, but watch out for those potential
future stars. Secondly, it is against the law
to discriminate on the grounds of: sex, race,
age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or
disability. You can find information on Equal
Opportunities in the Employing People section
of the Business Link website.
Both the Job Description and the
Person Specification can be given to other
organisations, such as Jobcentre Plus and
recruitment agencies, for them to help you
with the recruitment process. Potential
candidates will use these documents when
deciding whether to apply. The content will also
form the basis for the core questions you will
need to address in the interview.
So where do I look for possible
recruits?
The most common sources are:
• Advertising: Consider local, regional and
free press and specialist journals. This is a
wide area and needs careful thought and
research regarding the cost-effectiveness and
suitability of the particular media. Advertising
can range from an advert in the national press
at one end of the scale to a card in the local
newsagent’s window at the other. The key
point is that to be effective the advert needs
to be placed where potential applicants are
most likely to see it. Internet job searches are
increasingly popular, so consider placing your
vacancy with an online recruitment site and on
your own site. You could also advertise at your
own premises. You want to be seen by as many
people as possible so avoid holiday periods.
• Agencies: Jobcentre Plus is a good source
of recruits and may even offer a job subsidy,
but use the service intelligently. Discuss your
vacancy with them and take along your Job
giftfocus 171
business link

staffing matters
Description and Person Specification to
ensure they are clear about the person you
are looking for. Recruitment agencies and
consultants carry a cost, but are very effective
for many kinds of jobs.
• Government schemes: Jobcentre Plus
can advise you on options such as National
Apprenticeships and Pathways to Work.
• Other sources include: Colleges and schools,
word of mouth and local radio.
Identify the ideal qualities
that you are looking for in
the new employee, but also
think about your minimum
requirements.
The application process
You should decide what interested candidates
need to do to apply. Most people ask for
either: a letter of application; an application
form; a simple phone call; or a copy of the
applicant’s CV. The Business Link website gives
you lots of information on the pros and cons
of each option.
You may get more applicants than you can
interview, so you may need to do some form
of screening to produce a short-list. Your ability
to screen effectively will depend on the quality
of the information given in the application
process. At this stage, as at every stage from
now on, you should make notes about your
decisions in case you are challenged by a
disappointed candidate. As mentioned before,
there is a lot of legislation on discrimination
that you should be aware of – check the
Business Link website for further information.
Once you have your shortlist you should invite
the applicants to an interview. You should also
start preparing for the interviews – there
will be things you will want to ask every
interviewee to assess their suitability for the
role, but there will also be individual questions
based on each candidate’s application.
172 giftfocus
The interview day
Prepare well! Rather than draw up a long list
of questions, make a note of the areas that you
want to explore with each candidate and have
an opening question for each topic to get you
started. Listen carefully to the answers and ask
further questions until you have achieved your
objective for that particular topic, then move
on. Some golden rules:
• Ask open questions such as what, when,
where, who and why. Closed questions
invite yes or no answers, which can be useful
sometimes to clarify a point, but mainly you
want detailed answers – and for those you
need open questions.
• Treat the interview as a conversation with a
purpose, but ensure that the interviewee does
most of the talking.
• Make brief notes during the interview to
help with making more detailed notes after
the meeting, but otherwise listen attentively to
what is being said.
• Allow time after the interview for review
– make your summary notes of the interview
as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and don’t
write down your thoughts and impressions.
• Get your staff involved in the process
wherever practical.
• Consider second interviews with one or
more candidates if you are still unsure. Don’t
simply repeat the first interview, instead
explore the areas that need clarifying and even
consider a more practical exercise.
• At the end of the interview ask the
interviewee if they would accept the job if they
were to be offered it.
It’s decision time
Leave this for a few hours or until the following
day. If you have done your preparation well
and conducted the interviews effectively you
should be in a position to choose. Look again
at your selection criteria, including the Job
Description and Person Specification, plus the
application forms, CVs and interview notes.
Most importantly, be objective.
Confirm the appointment and write to the
others to say that they were unsuccessful. You
might want to hold back the letter to your
number two choice for a day or two just in
case your first choice changes their mind about
the job.
You may get more applicants
than you can interview, so you
may need to do some form
of screening to produce a
short-list
That’s it, job done!
Well, not quite… Having gone through all of
this you want to make sure that your new
employee settles in as quickly as possible, and
doesn’t leave in frustration after a few weeks.
An induction programme should cover the
early days or weeks of the new job. You or an
experienced member of staff should help with
the early parts of the induction, covering policy
and procedures and ‘showing them the ropes’
for the first day or so. You need to review
progress regularly during this period to ensure
you identify any help or action needed to
improve performance and job satisfaction.
In summary
You will stand a greater chance of recruiting
a valuable, long-term team member if you
prepare well and maintain a professional
approach throughout the recruitment
process, continuing through to appointment
and induction. g
Further information
For more details on all aspects of the staff
recruitment process, including drawing up
a Job Description, Person Specification and
the law on Equal Opportunities, visit the
Employing People section at the website
www.businesslink.gov.uk . To contact
Business Link call +44 (0)845 600 9006.

tales of the unexpected
What would you do if the worst happened? Sarah Dew of ISIS Regulatory Compliance
explains how business continuity planning can safeguard your venture from disruption by
unforeseen events.
There has never
been a more
critical time to
protect your
business and
its survival than
during the current
economic climate.
But how do
you guard your
company assets and reputation from harm,
ensure you are prepared for, can respond to,
and recover from, unexpected events?
Nearly one in five firms suffers major
disruption every year, and more than 50% of
companies who do not have a plan in place
and are hit by disaster go out of business
within 12 months. Such disruptions are
incredibly bad for business; affecting operations
and profit, they can result in significant HR
and health and safety implications, a loss of
customers to competitors, and an increase
in insurance premiums. Developing and
implementing a business continuity plan will
ensure your company is ready if disaster strikes.
Business continuity is all about damage
limitation and restoring normality within your
organisation as soon as possible after an
incident, by identifying and managing the risks
that could threaten its survival. But what goes
into a continuity plan, and what are the aspects
you should consider?
Follow these five simple steps:
1) Analyse your business
Before planning anything, analyse your business.
What are your critical functions, who and
what do you need to carry these out, what
effect would a disruption have on these, and
what are your recovery priorities? Consider
the effect if your business was disrupted for
24 hours, 48 hours, a week or a month. Think
about staff, premises, technology, supplies and
suppliers, stakeholders and timescales.
2) Assess the risks to your business
Something as simple as a delay from one of
your key suppliers can have a huge impact on
the running of your business, and affect your
ability to deliver your core services. Look for
single points of failure and consider the ‘what
if’ scenarios. Risks that are common to every
company include:
· Flooding to premises or the surrounding area
· Structural damage to buildings through fire or
forced entry
· A loss of significant numbers of key staff
· Loss of IT or telecoms
· Loss of electrical power, heating or fuel
Always consider the worst-case scenario, and
you will find the less serious incidents will be
easier to manage. Ask yourself what the impact
of each risk would be on the business and
how likely is it to happen. What measures can
you introduce to eliminate its likelihood or
reduce its impact? Don’t be afraid to ask key
suppliers if they have their own contingency
arrangements too.
3) Develop your strategy
It is essential that you have the support of your
CEO, directors and shareholders. Together you
should agree what your business continuity
strategy will be; will you accept the risks and
do nothing, attempt to reduce the risks and
make arrangements for help after an incident,
or reduce all risks to a level where you will not
require any outside help?
4) Develop your plan
Keep your plan simple and generic. Focus
on the impact of the disruption and how
you will recover, rather than the details of
the disruption itself. Build on existing roles
and responsibilities and consult with external
agencies such as your local authority and utility
companies, neighbouring businesses, suppliers
and insurance company.
Your plan should include:
• Roles and responsibilities
• Incident checklists
• Priorities during the first hour
• Priorities after the first hour
• Procedures and processes
• Emergency contacts
• A schedule for reviewing and updating
5) Rehearse your plan
You will not know if your plan is effective until
it has been tested. A ‘table-top’ exercise will
allow you to validate your priorities and ensure
everything is in the right order.
Remember, if you fail to plan, then you might
as well plan to fail. Make business continuity
part of how you run your company; include it
when developing new contracts, partnerships
and practices. By being prepared for the
unexpected everyone - your customers, staff,
suppliers and you - will have confidence in
your business. g
Further information
For advice and assistance with your
business continuity plan, call ISIS Regulatory
Compliance on +44 (0)1903 261 571 or visit
the website www.completelycompliant.com
giftfocus 175
business advice

176 giftfocus
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The leading name for hand-made crystal and glass
Spring Fair Hall 4 F32/G37
Tel: 01805 626262
info@dartington.co.uk
www.dartington.co.uk

WIN!
Ashleigh & Burwood has always been
passionate about fragrance and with over
17 years’ experience, the company knows a
thing or two about creating the fragrances
that consumers desire.
Its product portfolio has altered a lot over
the years not least due to constantly evolving
trends and demands of consumers.
Today Ashleigh and Burwood is the home of
the Fragrance Lamp, and its product portfolio
also includes best-selling reed diffusers,
candles and other premium gift packaged
home fragrance ranges. A&B always strives
to uphold the highest quality values and this,
Stock worth£500
from Ashleigh & Burwood’s
Fragrance Lamp range.
married with fragrance expertise and creative
fl air, makes it a force to be reckoned with in
the giftware industry.
Ashleigh & Burwood is proud to be the
UK’s leading supplier of the Fragrance Lamp.
These are decorative, ornamental products
which both clean the air in the home of
unwanted odours, bacteria and allergens, as
well as adding a fragrance of the consumer’s
choice. A&B offer a comprehensive range
with over 100 designs to choose from, and a
wide selection of fragrances produced in the
UK. Each of the lamps is handmade, meaning
no two products are exactly the same – from
mouthblown glass lamps containing fl ecks of
real 24k gold, through to mosaic glass lamps,
where the crackled surface is meticulously
hand applied. A&B regularly adds new lamp
designs and fragrances to the range ensuring
there is always something new to draw the
consumer in.
Ashleigh & Burwood has always prided
itself on its high specifi cation gift packaging
and for the Fragrance Lamp it is no different.
The hand-made gift box is an integral part of
the product offering – a beautiful box that can
be kept by the consumer for storing the lamp.
The box itself is designed in a format which
lends itself to an easy and effective display
in-store.
A major virtue of the lamps from a
retailer’s perspective is the ongoing repeat
sales of A&B Lamp Fragrance which are
generated following the initial purchase of
the lamp. The average lamp retail prices are
from £20 - £40 and a retailer could expect
sales of 18 – 22 bottles of lamp fragrance
from a single lamp purchase over the course
of a year. This equates to approximately an
additional £240 worth of sales over multiple
store visits by the consumer.
With so many benefi ts to the range, it’s
not hard to see why it is such a run away
success. To be part of it, why not enter the
competition to win your choice of stock with
a retail value of £500 from the Fragrance
Lamp range.
For your chance to win simply answer the
following question:
How many Fragrance Lamp designs
are available to choose from?
Enter online at www.giftfocus.com before
the closing date on 8th March 2010.
Terms and conditions apply.
For further information about the
complete Ashleigh & Burwood range
telephone 01932 267 060, log on to the
website www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk,
or visit them at Spring Fair International, Hall
4 Stand G32. g
giftfocus 179
competition

all the answers
Our experts tackle your insurance, legal and visual merchandising queries.
QQ
established family business founded in 1887,
some shops change the theme of their interior
almost as often as they change their windows
A
Alan Springall says: My answer is yes, a themed interior will
make your shop look fresh and interesting encouraging
customers to visit regularly. The shopping expectations of
the public have increased since the choice of ways and
places to buy has multiplied.
If your shop is in the medium to high quality bracket then
it is essential to make the interior exciting and entertaining
for customers. If low prices are your main selling point then
the customers will expect a basic approach with no frills so
it’s less important.
A good idea is to co-ordinate with the style that you
use for your window displays and/or publicity material as a
starting point so that you create a brand image. Try sourcing
objects/props that would help present the merchandise
in an interesting manner like old distressed furniture or
industrial textured materials. In addition you could reflect
the areas in which the product might be used or from
where it originates.
Should you need some inspiration, a couple of
well presented imaginative examples of this type of
merchandising are Urban Outfitters and their new, upmarket
outlet, Anthropologie in London’s Regent Street.
Anthropolgie used dried teabags as the basis for their
autumn display, which on the face of it does not sound too
inspiring, but actually formed an intriguing background for
those who were attracted to inspect it closely.
Their Christmas interior used white knitted and
crocheted pieces, interpreting a snowscape from a new
angle and they obtained unusual items on which to display
their merchandise.
So the solution doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive,
just imaginative.
Neil McFarlane, sales and marketing director, of
T H March & Co Limited. T H March is a well-
with offices in London, Birmingham, Manchester,
Glasgow, Sevenoaks and Yelverton, near Plymouth.
The company has departments covering
household, motor, life and income protection,
travel, commercial and scheme insurance.
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.
Ceri Rogers is an assistant solicitor at Ellisons
Solicitors, one of East Anglia’s oldest established
legal practices. The firm has 23 partners and
offices in Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton-on-
Sea and Dovercourt, Harwich. For further details
visit the website www.ellisonslegal.com. Ceri
advises on all aspects of contentious and noncontentious
commercial law, and you can contact
her on +44 (0)1206 719 275 or by sending an
email to ceri.rogers@ellisonslegal.com
If you have a question about any aspect of the gift retail industry, simply write
to: Q&A special, Gift Focus Magazine, Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham,
Essex, CM8 2UL. Alternatively, send your queries to editor@giftfocus.com.
themed interiors
Do you think that spending money on quirky props
and accessories to enhance the merchandising of
our stock would be worthwhile? I have noticed that
giftfocus 181
Q&A special

all the answers
changing insurers
QAll insurance policies for shops offer
the same cover, and I managed to
save £100 at this renewal by changing
insurer, I’m quite pleased with myself.
Neil McFarlane says: Most shop package
policies available on the market today offer
A
similar cover, but the levels of indemnity
under the policies will differ for some of the
automatic covers given as part of the policy,
for example, business interruption, goods in
transit and legal expenses. Before you change
insurers, please check very carefully that the
cover offered will be sufficient for your needs.
It is also worth noting that different insurers
will have their own separate levels of minimum
security, so just because you comply with your
expiring insurer’s requirements, please do not
automatically assume you will comply with
your new insurer’s standards.
Please also check that the insurer you
propose to move to is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Services Authority
and that their claims paying ability is monitored
by one of the rating agencies. Ask your broker
or insurance advisor for details.
legally binding
Would Qyou recommend that all new
supplier contracts are looked over by
a solicitor, or are there some basic
checks I can carry out for myself before
signing?
Ceri Asays: When you have received a new
contract from a supplier you may have already
spent a large amount of time discussing the
proposed terms of the contract with them.
With this in mind, it is important that you
take the time to review the contract that has
been provided, to ensure that it reflects the
terms that have been agreed. For example, if
you have changed supplier to obtain reduced
prices or more favourable payment terms,
always check that these have been included.
There are a number of ways in which
you may minimise the risk of being caught
out by a term in a contact. Take the time to
read the contract thoroughly, including in
AQ
particular any small print, before you sign the
agreement. Always read the contents of each
clause carefully, and do not simply assume
that the content of each clause is limited to
matters referred to in the clause heading. You
182 giftfocus
should check all details carefully, even those
which might be referred to as ‘standard’. Most
importantly, do not rely on promises made in
the negotiations leading up to the agreement
regarding matters which will be included in
the contract, and always remember that if a
particular point is not included in the written
agreement it is unlikely to be incorporated in
the contract.
Often when things go wrong people can
discover a number of contractual terms that
they had no idea existed. The contract is also
likely to contain clauses dealing with issues
which have not been contemplated by you in
your pre-contract discussions. It is therefore
extremely important that you allow yourself
the opportunity to consider the meaning and
implication of these clauses before you sign
the agreement.
It is worth paying particular attention to
terms in the contract relating to the duration
of the contract; whether the supplier is
entitled to unilaterally increase its prices;
any minimum purchasing requirements; and
the circumstances in which either party
can terminate the agreement. Before you
sign always be sure that you have read and
understood the contract fully.
It is important to be aware that business
customers do not have the level of legal
protection offered to consumers. You might
also consider reviewing the contract to see
whether it specifically refers to the quality
of the goods that the supplier provides and
what you should do in the event that you are
unhappy with any goods provided.
Contracts drafted for suppliers may have
different objectives to contracts prepared with
the customer in mind. If you are unsure of the
extent of either party’s obligations you should
not be afraid to raise any queries that you
have with the supplier or to seek the advice of
a solicitor.
exhibition cover
QPublic and Products Liability, how does
this cover me for an exhibition?
Neil McFarlane says: Exhibition Expenses
Cover – this enables recovery of booking fees
following cancellation of the event following
say Aa fire or a flood in an exhibition venue.
Some wordings may also extend to provide
cover for pre-booked accommodation, travel
and other expenses, which are lost.
Stock and Display Materials – should the
exhibition venue be destroyed during the
course of the show and your property is
within it, make certain that you have told your
insurers. If you have not made special provision
then you will not be insured.
Transit Risk – make certain that your
property is insured whilst being moved to or
from the exhibition venue. If you use a carrier
check their terms and conditions as many
restrict their liability which could result in only
limited compensation being paid in the event
of loss or damage. If using your own vehicle
make certain your policy has been extended.
stand out stands
Our company has been asked to exhibit
at a county show. We haven’t put a
stand together before, are there any
Q rules for beginners that you can give us?
A
Alan Springall says: The most concise advice
that I can give is to design your stand around
light and colour. Don’t stint on the amount
of lighting that you order or take with you
because, coupled with a strong co-ordinated
colour scheme, it will make your area stand out
from the majority of competitors who haven’t
bothered to make an effort and will look very
professional and create impact.
Don’t be tempted to fit the stand out with
the muddled variety of old fixtures that you
have in the back of your storeroom. Work to
an overall theme the same as you would when
designing a window or interior display, simple
repetitive shapes are best.
Overcrowding is also a common mistake,
concentrate on those items that make your
company different and original. The more you
show in a small space the more difficult it is
for customers to notice and appreciate items
making the decision to buy less likely. You can
hand them a flyer listing all the other ranges
available at your main shop.
Allow ‘hidden’ space to store all the
packaging, coats and back stock. These being on
show will detract from the overall presentation
giving a slovenly image.
And lastly, don’t hover on the front edge of
your stand. This looks intimidating and gives
people the impression that you are ready to
pounce as soon as they stray off the aisle onto
your protected territory. g

CAKE DESIGNS TO UNVEIL NEW ADDITIONS TO
ITS WISH ... ORIGINAL DOORSTOP RANGE AT
SPRING FAIR INTERNATIONAL 2010
Building on the phenomenal success in 2009 of our “WISH... original” Union
Jack door & bumper stop range, we are delighted to announce the launch
of 3 new additions to the family; Tartan Dog & Puppy and a new Chocolate
Brown felt Dog and Puppy.
Cake Designs UK are one of the leading British manufacturers that supply
design-led gifts in leather and fabric for the home & garden; we also specialise
in client own-designs and exclusive ranges.
Come and meet the team and view Cake’s complete range of fabulous and
innovative gift ideas at Stand D52, Hall 4. Or visit www.wishoriginal.com
And now something for the boys...
Gaeltag Keltika Ltd
T: 0208 998 1781
www.lolitadesigns.co.uk
NEC Spring Fair, Hall 4 Stand E1

the devil is in the detail!
If you are unlucky enough to be in an intellectual property dispute, whether it concerns the
ownership of graphics, the terms of a licence/royalty agreement or someone has broken the
terms of a confidentiality agreement, the devil is in the detail. It’s the small print, which counts
in your commercial relationships and allows you to address these hiccups more easily. Dids
Macdonald CEO of Anti Copying in Design (ACID) explains…
Successful entrepreneurs
need to be reassured that
the precious commodity
that is intellectual
property or “know-how”
is protected as much as it
can be.
ACID recently spoke to
Lisa Adams of Nalubeads
who had purchased a
confidentiality agreement.
Lisa comments, “We’d been working with
someone who had been fantastic when we
started up the business but we got our fingers
burnt when we felt he may have taken some
of our ‘know how’ and our ideas and there
was nothing we could do about it. We have
now just employed our first member of staff
and have ensured that, as part of our standard
terms and conditions of employment, there is
a signed confidentiality agreement. This gives
us assurance that should things go wrong we
can rely on the small print.”
Most companies will have marketing material
and use a photographer and this is also where
clarity is needed. Who owns the rights? Many
believe that if you pay a photographer to take
photographs of, say, a new range of products,
the commissioner (or the person who pays for
the photographs) will own the rights. In law
the answer is usually NO!
The photographer will be the first owner of
the intellectual property rights, in this case
copyright, in the photograph(s) of your
designs. However, it is possible to obtain the
copyright by having the photographer “assign”
the copyright to you and it is important to
realise that copyright may only be assigned by
a signed agreement in writing, and having an
Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement
drafted is the best way of achieving this.
184 giftfocus
Paying for the services of a professional
photographer makes no strict difference to
the legal position as stated above. However,
payment may well provide an “implied term”
of any agreement that you have with the
photographer, that you intended to own the
copyright rather than the photographer. Such
an implied term will most likely result in
your being permitted to decide where your
photographs are published and for
what purpose.
The photographer will also have moral
rights associated with the photograph(s)
he/she has taken. This means that you
will have to take into consideration not
using the photographs in a manner that
could be interpreted as derogatory by the
photographer. You will also have to credit
the photographer as having taken the
photograph(s) wherever published. In order
for you to have full rights over how the
photograph(s) are published, and to avoid
having to name the photographer each time,
you will need the photographer to “waive”
these moral rights. A waiver of moral rights
may be incorporated into an Intellectual
Property Assignment Agreement.
Licence/royalty agreements – what are the
strengths and weaknesses?
How many businesses thrive as a result of a
positive relationship between designer and
manufacturer and how few have a robust
licence/royalty agreement to benefit both
parties should things go wrong? In the
creation of an industry standard agreement,
ACID spent a considerable time consulting
with both designers and manufacturers to
create an agreement which demonstrates
a fair balance between both parties and
which is easy to understand, avoids legal
jargon and most importantly is legally
enforceable. Having such an agreement
protects the interests of both parties, without
compromising either party and maximises
commercial opportunities. Below are some
key considerations for designers when
thinking about a licence/royalty relationship:
1. They’re my designs!
Assigning the rights in your designs effectively
hands all the control over in those designs and
the manner in which they can be exploited by
the recipient, unless you agree specific terms
under which you keep the right to maintain
control over certain matters.
2. What licence?
If you do wish to retain more control over
your designs, then you should license them
rather than assign them. This means that
you retain ownership of the rights and grant
others the right to use the designs subject to
certain restrictions, which you can impose.
• An exclusive licence means that you cannot
use the designs for the duration of the licence
– that becomes the exclusive right of the
person granted the licence.
• A sole licence means that both you and the
person granted the licence can use the designs.
• A person who is granted a non-exclusive
licence merely has the right to use the designs
but cannot take action to prevent anyone
else also using the designs. Someone granted
an exclusive licence can take action to stop
anyone else using the designs.
3. Make a list
All the designs, which are to be covered by the
licence, should be listed in a schedule attached
to the agreement. If the licence covers future

designs then further schedules should be
added when those designs are created.
4. Copying - who pays the bills?
The licence should state whose responsibility
it will be to take action against someone
found copying the designs. Sometimes the
cost of this can be shared, as can the proceeds
recovered from the copier, but the licence
should state how they will be shared.
5. Hidden extras
The licence should set out exactly how
royalties will be calculated. There will be a
big difference between a royalty calculated
as a percentage of the retail selling price of
the article as opposed to its wholesale price.
Check for further deductions for things such
as discounts on bulk orders.
6. Which country?
It is possible to license different companies to
sell the same design in different countries or
other geographical areas. The licence should
clearly state which country or countries it
covers, and should prevent active sales of
the designs outside of that territory. It is
also important that the licence states which
country’s law will apply to the licence.
7. How much?
It is possible to agree either a one-off lump
sum or payment of regular royalties on sales,
or a combination of the two, often in the form
of an upfront payment followed by royalties.
If you do agree an upfront payment and
royalties, check to see whether the lump sum
payment is deducted from future royalties.
Also you could consider using a minimum
guarantee for royalties, so that you are paid a
guaranteed minimum amount each year even
if the royalties actually earned are less than
that amount.
8. How long?
This can often be an important but difficult
issue, as the shelf life of the design is often
not known at the outset. It may be difficult
to get a company to agree to continue paying
royalties after the period of copyright or
design right protection has expired.
9. The last word...
If you want to ensure that the products are
being made to your correct design, or to your
standards, then include a right to inspect
samples before they are put into production.
Similarly, you can include clauses, which state
the manner in which the products will be
promoted. You may want to ask for your name
to be included on all publicity materials.
10. Remember!
You should always read the whole of the
licence and ask if you are unsure of the effect
of any of the terms.
Susan Edgerton Ball, also a user of ACID’s
industry standard licence royalty agreement
to underpin all her licensing relationships,
lists her top tips when negotiating a licence
royalty deal:
1. Make sure that the company you deal
with commits to sales for a period of at least
three years and check that there is a clause
included enabling you to accurately audit
their accounts.
2. Ensure that your royalty payments in the
agreement are in monetary terms rather than
percentage terms.
3. Ensure you have an intellectual property
lawyer specialist to include additional clauses
in the standard licence royalty agreement that
are pertinent to your particular needs.
Trade secrets and “know-how” –
confidentiality!
A company’s “know-how” is the fuel, which
provides a competitive edge in the market
place, helping to differentiate your particular
products or expertise from those of others.
For example, Karen Lowish of Nuptial Nets
designs wedding crackers and she uses the
ACID warning tape on every package, which
leaves her premises.
Says Karen: “Our wedding crackers are all
individually handmade in house by our own
designer. Every design is bespoke and unique
and every boxed set goes out with the ACID
warning tape and a licence agreement. In
the same way that by opening computer
software you are bound by the terms and
conditions of use, the ACID licence tape
sends a “reminder” that these products
are protected by copyright in artistic
craftsmanship.”
So what constitutes a “trade secret” and
“know-how”? A trade secret could be a
formula such as used by Coca-Cola or a
chemical formula for a glue or cement. It
could be an idea for a new product range
or a method of manufacture. You cannot
register trade secrets in the same way as other
intellectual property rights and it does not
have to be “novel” in the same way that design
right or patents are. A trade secret does not
have to be produced in a tangible form of
reality either. For example, take a company’s
valuable database of clients and suppliers, a
classic example of confidential information
gathered over years, which gives that company
the competitive edge. How many employers
have failed to protect this vital information
and taken the trouble to ensure that any
employees sign a confidentiality agreement
and/or have a specific clause in their standard
terms of employment?
So, in short, if you land up in a dispute
with someone who steals your trade secrets
you will need to be able to prove that you
made every effort to keep them secret and
confidential. A good start would be to have
a policy in place, which identifies all the
trade secrets you have, lists the confidential
knowledge or “know-how” that your company
possesses and ensures that access is restricted
to this knowledge. Also keep an up to date
list of those who have been entrusted with
this information. The bottom line - always
ensure that trade secrets and confidential
information is shared only when all parties
have signed a “non-disclosure” agreement or
confidentiality agreement. The devil is in the
detail of SIGNED agreements upon which you
can later rely if things go wrong. g
For information about ACID’s industry
standard agreements visit the website
www.acid.eu.com
giftfocus 185
acid

Eco-friendly company Envirosax has recently
celebrated its fi fth birthday, with the business
continuing to grow and attract attention
across the globe. It was years before ethical
fashion became part of the zeitgeist of the
new millenium, however, despite that Belinda
David-Tooze began her own personal
environmental crusade.
At the impressionable age of 18 Belinda
travelled through Europe and Asia with long
stints in Japan and was immersed in different
cultures, discovering the beauty of nature on
many other continents. It was on this trip that
Belinda realised the damaging human impact
on the environment of the places that she had
visited, information which ultimately infl uenced
her lifestyle, interests and business direction.
This initial experience combined with
Belinda’s own interest in design, fashion
and textiles made the ideal foundation for
a business commited to environmental
philosophies. This rather large dream was given
direction after the more practical dilemma of a
family trip to the supermarket!
When standard supermarket reusable bag
options started to appear in the marketplace
Belinda always intended to utilise them,
however, the fact that the bags were bulky,
impractical and made from polypropylene,
which disintegrates releasing a toxic chemical
dust, often meant that she and other shoppers
forgot to pick them up. Belinda decided that a
reusable bag needed to be appealing as well as
convenient, so she set about to make it happen
with passion, principles and environmental
legacy in mind.
Envirosax was founded in 2004 and created
a product that appealed to mainstream
fashionistas and enabled everyone to be
environmentally conscious. The company now
has over 60 different bag designs in strong and
low cost fabrics such as bamboo, linen, hemp
and organic cotton.
186 giftfocus
¢ ¢
eco logic
Envirosax founder Belinda David-Tooze was inspired by her
love of travel to embark upon a sustainable lifestyle and an
eco-friendly business...
“Natural organic fi bres are the ultimate
direction in total sustainability. Our objective is
to continue the research into the materials that
are ideal for the environment, while appealing
to the broadest range of people possible – this
is the only way to have the biggest impact,”
says Belinda.
Belinda and her family take on the
responsibility of decreasing the carbon
footprint of Envirosax as a company by living
an ecologically sustainable lifestyle at home on
their 10 acre pristine rainforest property in
Currumbin in Queensland, Australia.
The property is off the grid and has organic
gardens, solar panels, and water tanks whilst
the trees on the property remove pollutants
such as nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide,
and also add about 52kg of oxygen to the
atmosphere per year.
The company utilises manufacturing facilities
in China and South America and has offi ces
in Australia, Wales and San Diego. Envirosax
currently exports to 57 countries throughout
the EU, UAE, Asia, North and South America
and Russia. Now after only four years, the bags
have been carried by celebrities such as Justin
Timberlake and Jennifer Garner, and the
products have been taken on by high profi le
department stores.
Belinda’s aim is to keep moving forward with
exceptional product development. New bag
designs and colours are a focus to keep the
offering fresh with new ranges releasing at least
twice a year, a challenge that she considers
exciting and important. “It is delightful to
receive feedback from customers around the
world who love using the bags for their stylish
designs and environmental contribution. The
biggest thrill though is the knowledge that this
business is making an impact, educating adults
and children about the importance of reuse
and leaving an environmental legacy for my
children,” says Belinda. g
FURTHER INFORMATION
To fi nd out more call +44 (0)1792 797 968
or visit www.envirosax.com

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Issue 57 January/February 2010
www.giftfocus.com
Novelty Gifts
Fun lines to fly off the shelves
Great
GREENS
Spotlight on planet
friendly products
WIN!
Fabulous products
from Ashleigh
& Burwood’s
Fragrance Lamp
range
www.giftfocus.com
Official media partner for Spring Fair International 2010
BIGGEST
EVER ISSUE!
SPRING FAIR
PREVIEW
Mother’s Day
Top gifts for mums
Clock picture special
Time pieces that tick all the boxes
PLUS
• Hot trends for 2010
• Fashion handbags
• New product showcase
AVA
gallery
a unique range of canvas wall art
www.avagallery.co.uk
Email: info@avagallery.co.uk
Tel: 07905 120274
giftfocus 189

next issue...
Father’s Day
Top lines for top dads
Candles and home fragrances
The sweet smell of success from
hard to beat lines
Women’s fashion jewellery
Latest trends, colours and styles
Gaby's
Issue 58
March/April 2010
Available from: 8 th March 2010
Advertising
Deadline: 19 th February 2010
190 giftfocus
Plus
•
•
•
Industry news
New product launches
Trade show updates
The write stuff
Showcasing stylish stationery
Made in Britain
Flying the fl ag for product GB
Bougies La Francaise
Blueprint

This year at Spring Fair 2010 we will be
showing all our current ranges updated with the new
Spring / Summer fragrances & colours. These include
��������������������������������������������������
tins and glass, all handmade in the U.K.
Spring Fair Hall 4/A33
Tel: 015395 59007 Fax: 015395 59113 Email: info@pintailcandles.com
www.pintailcandles.com

192 giftfocus
Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Inspired by one of the world’s most popular children’s songs, Teddy Bears’
Picnic captivates people of all ages. Royal Selangor’s family of teddy bears
continues to grow with the addition of five cleverly designed new items to its
Teddy Bears’ Picnic collection including a yo-yo, a spinning top, a bubble blower,
a trinket box and a tooth box. Beautifully designed and finely crafted in pewter,
these endearing new additions retail from just £19 and make perfect gifts
for christenings and birthdays.
For further information, please contact Nicki Isagba
Tel: 020 7474 5511 | Fax: 020 7474 5522
nicki@royalselangor.co.uk
Visit us at MODA,
stand AR51
NEC Birmingham
21-23 February 2010
Stunning handbags at sensible prices
www.poltsa.co.uk • Tel/Fax: 020 8395 6152
product showcase
We reveal some of this season’s hottest gifts
Angelic Hen
Angelic hen brings you a wonderfully whimsical range of wooden gifts
and witty signs. Brilliant ideas for keeping the home organised. We have
a peg for every problem; ‘Fileo-pegs’
for messy paperwork,
‘Socks Reunited’ for odd socks,
‘Photo Boards’ for pegging
up snap shots, ‘This Week’s
Masterpiece’ for children’s art
work. Peg up your tea towels,
tide times and sports stuff .We
even have a big peg for ‘Not
My Problem’. Tel 01600 891
572, fax 01600 891 573, email
customersevices angelichen.
com, www.angelichen.com
Keepsake Collection
“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational
to read in the train.” Oscar Wilde
Our delightful new range of charming and terribly pretty things, the
first new collection to be launched in 2010. Luxurious
colours and intriguing designs, fall in love with these
beautiful keepsake items featuring illustrations of vintage
city maps, birds, deer and majestic crowns inspired by
journeys of the heart.
Wild and Wolf
Hall 4
Stand G52/H53
Tel: 01225 789909
www.wildandwolf.com
sales@wildandwolf.com
Black Ginger
Black Ginger is launching its new range at the Spring Fair 2010. One of
the main features of this collection will be an addition to the “Dinner Party
Game” Napkins. The existing range is one of its very best sellers and first
reactions to this new design suggest it will be just as popular if not more so.
Visit their stand at the NEC to see this and all the new ranges available.
There will be new jewellery,
ceramics, coasters, umbrellas to
name but a few of the items in the
collection. And don’t fear all the old
favourites will be there too.
Black Ginger Stand –
Hall 7 Stand D22
Tel: 0118 940 3731
Email: Info@blackginger.co.uk
www.blackginger.co.uk

Ladybird Archive Collection
“Let’s get Crafting!”
Wild and Wolf’s Ladybird Archive Collection has drawn upon these
wonderfully charming illustrations and designed a delightful range of gifts.
Winners of two categories in the Gift of the Year Awards 2009, Wild and
Wolf present the latest addition to the
collection, Ladybird Activity Kits. Brimming
with fun and nostalgia and great for
children who love to make
and do– here’s to the next
Ladybird generation!
Wild and Wolf
Hall 4
Stand G52/H53
Tel: 01225 789909
www.wildandwolf.com
sales@wildandwolf.com
Blue Poppy Art
These wonderful Meerkats, sculpted by Paul Jenkins, are just some of nearly
20 new sculptures being introduced by Frith Sculpture this spring.
Come and compare these
with our new Hares,
Highland Cattle, Sheep and
much more! The entire
collection of over 150
models will be on display.
Hall 4 Stand D60
Blue Poppy Art Limited
tel: 01793 759000
email:
sales@bluepoppyart.co.uk
www.frithsculpture.co.uk
Hot Sellers
Hello. We’re my mums factory and we make Shottles;
cute woolly warmers that instantly warm up at the click of a button.
Simple and safe to use, just put next to your
chilly bits, click the corner and
zingo bingo, a warming glow
without batteries or hot
water. Fully reusable and
available in four cuddly
styles over two sizes
(medium and key-fob).
Free merchandisers.
Call 0844 884 8491
or visit
www.mymumsfactory.co.uk
Temple Island
We can’t wait to show off new ‘Stripy’
at the Spring Fair. This eclectic product
mix of lenticular notebook, mug & tin,
placemats and coaster sets is going to
be a mad hit with kitchen & home
shops, stationery stores and what
a great statement it will make in
the gift shop assortment.
Contact Lucy at Temple Island
Collection T: 01494 481022
E: lucy@templeisland.com
Spring Fair Hall 20 Stand A01
BT Design’s new product
PiZZa Ball is the way forward in homemade pizza. With its unique
design, PiZZa Ball allows anyone to easily make the perfect
homemade pizza. Using any pizza tray, all you need to
do is create circular motions with PiZZa Ball on top of
your dough. This naturally creates a perfectly circular
base of your desired thickness, giving your pizza a
professional finish – Be creative.
Contact: 07976249753 email:
emailBTDesign@aol.com
or visit:
www.pizzaball.co.uk
Ridley’s House of Novelties
The perfect range for anyone who fondly remembers those hours spent
in the toy shop every Saturday trying to decide just what to buy with
their pocket money. Classic novelties, games, jokes and tricks from Ridley’s
House of Novelties, are
the perfect classic gift
from Wild and Wolf.
Each retro ‘shop-worn’
package encases fun for
both gown ups and kids!
Wild and Wolf
Hall 4
Stand G52/H53
Tel: 01225 789909
www.wildandwolf.com
sales@wildandwolf.com
giftfocus 193
product showcase

Jessica Graham could hardly believe it when
her quirky cushion designs scooped Best New
Children’s Product Award at leading trade
show Top Drawer last September.
“I was completely shocked. It was my first
ever trade fair, and the first time that the
public had seen my designs, so I didn’t know
what reaction I was going to get. Getting that
prize was so unexpected, and I was absolutely
thrilled! Getting the recognition would’ve been
enough, but the actual prize was amazing - a
free stand at Top Drawer this January! Moneywise
I may not have been able to do another
trade fair so soon, so this was more than I
could ever have hoped for.”
Jessica graduated in 2007 gaining a First
Class honours degree at LCC, part of
London’s University of the Arts, where she did
a three-year BA Surface Design course.
After various work placements with different
design companies she decided to brave it on
her own.
194 giftfocus
cushion creations
Up and coming young designer Jessica Graham has enjoyed whirlwind
success with her debut range, scooping top honours at her first major trade
show. Her feet have hardly touched the ground since and now she’s looking
forward to building the brand in 2010.
“After I graduated, I was predominantly
doing hand-painted wallpaper and mural
commissions. Whilst I loved this, the potential
market was very small, and I wanted my
designs to be more accessible,” she explains.
Her designs are inspired by an early
childhood spent in Asia, and time spent living
and teaching in Uganda and India.
“My father and grand-mother both grew
up in Asia, and as a result, I have always been
surrounded by art and objects from abroad,
and the eclectic mix of styles and colours has
definitely had an influence on my work.
“I am also obsessed with drawing children’s
toys, and a lot of my inspiration comes from
toy museums. I try and seek out a toy museum
wherever I go. The last exciting find was a
toy museum in Prague, but I have also made
countless visits to Pollock’s Toy Museum
in London.”
She chose cushions as the first product to
launch her designs because they offered an
easy way for people to update their homes
and add a contemporary touch without
spending a fortune.
“Especially during the recession when
people are unable to move house or redecorate,
cushions are a fast and reasonably
cheap way to transform the look of a room.
“Obviously it has been hard setting up in
a recession, but I think starting a business is
always going to be hard, and as I have never
run a business in any other financial climate, I
don’t really have anything to compare it to!”
she laughs.
Her top tip for anyone looking to start out
on their own is - persevere!
She says: “Some days you may wonder what
on earth you are doing, as it is incredibly tough,
but you never know what is round the corner.”
Looking forward she plans to build on her
early success with more vibrant and colourful
designs and new product ranges.
“I will be exhibiting at Top Drawer this
January and I have just signed up to do Pulse in
June, so by then I hope to have a much wider
range of products for both adults and children.
“I am in the process of designing baby quilts
and framed children’s prints, which should be
available early next year. I also like the idea of
children’s aprons.
“For the adults I will be designing a range of
make-up bags, wash-bags and tea towels, which
I hope to exhibit at Pulse.
“For now, I am aiming to do at least three
trade fairs per year, and I want to be constantly
expanding my range and building the brand.” g
For further information telephone:
+44 (0)7796 158 234 or visit the website
www.jessica-graham.com.

Spring Fair: Hall 4 Stand D11
Pure London: Stand J174