Gift Focus Magazine - Wholesale gifts for trade buyers



Happy 50th!

Since its launch in July 1999 Gift Focus has gone from strength to strength, establishing itself at the forefront of the industry. In the two years since I took over as editor, I have travelled both at home and abroad, and seen the enormous breadth of product the industry has to offer. And I must say I never cease to be impressed by the British offering in terms of quality, innovation and design. We help lead the way in terms of ethical trading, with stylish and market leading natural, organic, recycled and fair trade products. In our special feature we spotlight on some of the ‘champions of change’ helping to influence the way people shop and setting new standards in terms of fair trade. Even though times are hard consumers are remaining loyal to the principle and sales of fair trade goods have seen an impressive 55 per cent increase. Our home-grown talent also takes some beating, with a wealth of regional and creative skills on tap. We provide a small snapshot of just some of what’s on offer in the handmade sector. With Christmas just round the corner we unveil a host of exciting products brand new to the market and spotlight on an enterprising retail outlet determined to make the most of the festive season. And with shows like Top Drawer Spring, Torquay Fair and Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring set to kick start the New Year, there’ll be plenty of innovation and unique designs around to inspire for the seasons ahead. Undoubtedly many will be approaching the Christmas period with trepidation. We offer top tips and advice from industry professionals on everything from merchandising, warehousing, insurance and internet marketing to how to protect your business against the credit crunch. Here at Gift Focus it has been impossible, even in the midst of our ‘50th’ celebrations, to avoid the dreaded ‘r’ word, but the economic doom and gloom hasn’t dampened our enthusiasm – we still think there’s plenty to shout about! Gift Focus continues its tradition of serving the industry and we are delighted to raise a glass to the next 50 editions. Lastly let me take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year ahead! Sarah Reeve Editor

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November/December 2008
issue 50
available now