Autumn Fair News Headlines

The Emap Home and Gift team has just returned from what was widely agreed to be the best Autumn Fair International in years, where visitors and exhibitors alike showed a stunning return of confidence in the market.

As the national media finally decided to stop being miserable and announced that the recession was officially over, the season’s key buying event was well underway at the Birmingham NEC, where exhibitors in all categories, from design-led giftware and greetings cards to art, kitchenware and toys were busily enjoying their best-ever show.

Speaking towards the end of the event, Chris Dyson, joint managing director of the buying group Cardgains, which has an entire Village at Autumn Fair International, said: “Any pre-show worries or negativity had disappeared by 10.00 on the Sunday morning and it’s been a continuous flow of buyers throughout the week since then. What used to be a sight of the past – people still writing orders at the end of the show – is still happening now. Let’s hope it continues.”

Some of the retailers who attended the event included House of Fraser, Fenwicks, John Lewis, Betterware, Heals, Cargo, Bentalls, Hamleys, TK Maxx, Poundland and Lakeland, along with thousands of independents, Internet traders and smaller multiples. As the show got underway tweeters and bloggers were keen to show their enthusiasm for the event, with Twitter regular lilyandlime saying: “Fabulous day at the NEC Autumn Fair sourcing new products;.one of the best jobs, met some fab. People, very passionate about all they do".

One of the independent retailers Market Insight spoke to was Emma Kearst of Cranberries Gift Shop in Essex, who was on the look out for children’s toys. “In terms of trade shows I think this is the best one I’ve been to”, she said, it’s certainly better than Paris, much easier to get around and I’ve found exactly what I want here.”

International visitors were also out in force. Philip Neocleous, the owner of Cyprus’ Damart chain of 11 department stores, was there to place orders with existing suppliers Bomb Cosmetics and BAI, and also on the lookout for something new. He declared himself to be “very happy with the new products” developed by his suppliers and added that he had: “Seen a very good mix of products at the show, there’s lots of variety, something to suit all different kinds of retailers. We are looking at the mid range price-wise and all kinds of items, both Christmas and general.”

On the exhibitor side, the managing director of first time exhibitor Vivid Wrap, Steve Williams, was more than impressed by his experience of Autumn Fair International, saying: “I’ve been stunned by the amount of Christmas business we’ve done, I’ve had people placing significant orders, not just small additions. It’s powerful, I’ve had loads of independents buying right across the range. I took out quite a small stand as you’ve got to be a bit cautious with something you’ve never done before, but I’ll be rebooking with more space for next time and I’ve already signed up for Spring Fair.”

Another first time exhibitor, Vernon Kerswell, who is founder of Manchester-based Extreme Flyers, launched his company to the trade at this year’s Autumn Fair International. “We’ve been rushed off our feet all show”, he commented, “I haven’t had a moment to spare. I’ve seen multiples and independents and have opened up a huge number of accounts, it’s been amazing. Lots of retailers are here to buy something for Christmas and this is something they haven’t seen before.”

Lisa Shoesmith of greetings card publisher and gift manufacturer Really Good was also happy, saying: “We’ve opened lots of new accounts at the show and picked up loads of leads. People have been looking for different things, they’re trying to broaden their product range and there’s a real buzz about the place”.

For those who were unable to attend this year’s event, we’ll be reviewing the show over the next few days and featuring more of the hottest new products of the season, so stay tuned in.

Pictured above are a delighted Autumn Fair International event director, Roz McGuinness, with daughter Anya, who did a fantastic job manning our press room for the duration of the show. Roz and Anya are both wearing gorgeous hair ornaments by first time exhibitor 2Adorn. Below is part of Distaster Designs' showcase: We loved your stand!