In With the New
Exhale.
There’s a distinct quiet that settles in after the holidays. Outside, the world softens as the winter hush creeps in. The garlands come down, the last of the giftwrap is cleared from the counter and retailers everywhere finally take a breath. You did it — another holiday season!
Inside your store, though, that stillness is anything but idle.
In retail, winter has always signified a time to recoup, plan and prepare for the joy your store will bring customers in the year ahead. While customers ease back into their routines, our industry is already moving quickly. Buying season begins, inventory is analyzed, merchandising plans take shape. And, of course, coast-to-coast markets kick off in rapid succession, filling showrooms with the fresh product and trends that will define the year ahead.
That’s the beauty of this season. On the surface, it appears still, but it’s actually where the groundwork for the entire year is laid. It’s the time to fine-tune your brand’s identity and decide what kind of inspiration you would like to bring to your customers in 2026.
What stories do you want your shelves to tell? How do you want customers to feel the moment they step inside? What new collections or product categories will help your store evolve to the modern-day consumer?
Our editorial team constructed this issue with that energy in mind. Within this issue, you’ll preview new-to-market collections, holiday 2026 trends and made-in-the-USA wholesalers dedicated to their retailers — just to name a few. We hope our Winter 2026 Issue brings clarity and momentum as you begin a new year.
This winter, keep an eye out for our team as we peruse the market floors, and check in on our socials (@giftshop_magazine) for show recaps and editors’ picks along the way.
Additionally, come see us in person at our annual 2026 Spotlight Awards Ceremony, sponsored by ANDMORE and taking place Jan. 15 at Atlanta Market. In the meantime, read about our extraordinary honorees, and RSVP yourself and your team for a breakfast ceremony full of celebration, connection and inspiration at giftshopmag.com/spotlightrsvp.
Winter may be Earth’s quietest season, but in retail, it’s where everything begins. Cheers to fresh ideas, thoughtful buying and inspiration that guides you into a successful 2026!
Until next issue,
