The retail industry is always evolving.

At Gift Shop® Plus and Stationery Trends, we strive to monitor all the trends — design trends, buying trends, economic trends. One trend we’ve seen persist in recent years: the crossover between traditional gift categories and garden and outdoor living.

Garden and outdoor living products have been in demand since the onset of the pandemic as people began spending more time at home — and that demand continues to increase. In 2023, Americans averaged nine hours per week at home outdoors versus seven hours per week in 2022.

Houseplants & Accessories and Garden & Outdoor Living are some of our fastest-growing categories in terms of product submissions and reader interest.

In line with this industry trend, we have also evolved here at Great American Media Services, publishing company of Gift Shop® Plus and Stationery Trends. In May 2023, our sister brand Lawn & Garden Retailer became part of the retail division. From product submissions to trend reports, we are seeing even more overlap between our industries.

These can range from small giftables like plantable pencils and cards to larger items such as pots and planters, as well as outdoor décor and tabletop. Plant iconography also does well across all retail categories as more buyers — especially millennials and Gen Z — embrace their inner “plant parent.”

Are you looking to incorporate these trends in your store? If so, I would like to extend the invite to attend The Garden Center Show, Aug. 6-7, in Rosemont, Illinois. With Lawn & Garden Retailer at its helm, the show is set to offer unparalleled buying and education opportunities for industry professionals, specialty retailers, suppliers and wholesalers. Register for free at gardencentershow.com.

There is no shortage of upcoming industry events as the summer buying season ramps up. For the complete calendar of events, head to page 142.

Are there any other major trends you’re seeing — or new categories gaining momentum — that Gift Shop® Plus and Stationery Trends should cover? If so, please send me your ideas at cmcfadden@greatamericanpublish.com.

A YEAR-ROUND RESOURCE

I am proud to introduce you to the fifth annual edition of The Guide. As the name suggests, this issue is designed to quite literally guide you through the industry’s freshest offerings.

We’re committed to bringing you the most innovative, on-trend products to boost your business and resonate with customers. Within these pages are hundreds of products across 20 categories to inspire you and your buying decisions.

The Guide is available year-round on giftshopmag.com/special-issue. There, you’ll also find our other special annual issues: Holiday Shop, Waterfront Living and Celebrations & Occasions, whose 2024 issues are slated for later this year.

We hope you find inspiration in The Guide 2024.

Until next time,

Carly McFadden

Editorial Director