The Autumn Fair, a leading seasonal event for Home, Gift, and Fashion retail, kicked off, attracting thousands of buyers eager to discover the latest products for their stores. Spanning four days, the show is crucial for UK independent retailers to refresh their inventory ahead of the festive season. Reports from the first day highlighted an optimistic atmosphere, with substantial order writing and the value of in-person interactions.
Prominent retailers and independent businesses, including Tesco, Poundland, Blue Diamond, and Roys of Wroxham, attended the event. Event Director Soraya Gadelrab expressed excitement about welcoming over 12,000 buyers to explore offerings from 800+ suppliers, noting the positive feedback from attendees.
On the show floor, exhibitors and buyers shared positive experiences. Jason Bensohn of One.World, returning after a pre-Covid hiatus, praised the opportunity to reconnect with old clients and attract new ones. Kerry Singh of Final Touches reported unexpected busyness and early orders. Paul Connett of My Gifts Trade launched new collections at the show, including exclusive European ranges, while Brett Smith of Emotional Rescue highlighted the networking benefits.
In the Moda section, Irene Harvey of Velvet & Cream and James Rowley of Sleek Boutique discovered new suppliers and products, emphasizing the importance of the event for finding unique items.
The Autumn Fair also featured a Merchandising Masterclass led by Debbie Flowerday, focusing on visual display techniques to enhance retail spaces. Attendees like Luke MacFadyen of Fig1 and Paula Hunault of XO-CU Ltd found the session insightful, gaining valuable tips for improving their store presentations.
With 38 per cent of exhibitors new to the show and 30 per cent exclusive, the Autumn Fair offers retailers access to innovative products, helping them stay ahead of trends. The event's unique offerings and new buyer attractions, such as the Ambience Clinic, further enriched the experience, making it a must-attend for the retail community.
