Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn Closes With Optimistic Mood
The mood at the SECC for Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn was optimistic as this key Scottish Trade Show closed after two days with over 1650 visitors through the doors.
As a last stop shop before Christmas, buyers could stock up on goods pre-Christmas and look at the wide range of gifts, homewares, jewellery, fashion accessories and textiles. Many exhibitors reported taking good orders from a wide range of buyers, many of whom were new to them. There was a definite feeling of confidence with the hope that sales may begin to pick up slowly after these challenging years.
Over 160 stands saw a steady stream of buyers over the two days, especially the smaller independent retailers. The Launch Gallery for young, start-up companies under two years old, attracted particular interest with a range of original and desirable gifts and cards.
Noni Cuthbert from Stuf! Marketing that was launching the French SKIMP range of high quality bags, belts and watches said: “We have done more business on the first day of STF Autumn than at any other show. We have taken many orders and had a constant flow of buyers to the stand.”
Karen Inglis from Dekassa Candles added: “The first day was our busiest day ever at a Show. About half of all our orders are from new outlets, many of whom have taken our new products, which is pleasing to know we are developing products that sell.”
Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn has a good combination of established brands such as Ness, Highland Stoneware, Sheila Fleet jewellery, Scott Inness, House of Edgar and Tartan Twist. New to the Show were companies such as Angel’s Share Glass, Natty Maid homewares, Cockadoodledoo cards, Wiggles and Florence ceramics, and Rhubarb and Ginger Textiles.
Springboard Director Mark Saunders, who organises the Show said: “It is encouraging to see that the dial has shifted over the summer and a mood of confidence and optimism has returned from retailers. There has been many orders taken of all sizes and it seems that retailers are hopeful of a good Christmas period.”
Linda Singh from 27 Alloway gift shop in Ayrshire, which is opposite the Burns Museum, said: “I have done some great business at this Show and found some new suppliers which is very encouraging.”
David Bell from Pewtermill whose stand near the door was busy for the whole two days said: “This has been an excellent show with many new orders.”
Michelle Mehaffey, buyer for the National Trust for Scotland said: “Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn is an excellent place to meet our suppliers and find some new ones. Ideally for us it would be even better if producers could preview their new ranges for 2014 as all big buyers are looking to next summer’s season now.”
