The first educational event organised by the Giftware Association (GA) for its members was a ‘resounding success’, according the trade body.
Held on September 27 at the GA’s headquarters in Birmingham, the aim of ‘Trends Talks Day’ was to educate attendees on the current colour, high street and digital trends.
The headline speaker at the event was Marianne Shillingford, creative director of paint brand Dulux, who unveiled the latest Dulux colour trend report for products and packaging.
David Glenwright, head of training service at JC Social Media, discussed the latest digital marketing and social media trends, and industry commentator Michael Weedon, managing director of exp2 Ltd and chair of the FSB (Federation of Small Businesses) Retail Policy Unit, talked about the future of the high street and changes in retail trends.
Reflecting on the day, GA chief executive Sarah Ward said: “It was great to get so many people in a room together, who took the time out of their busy schedules [to attend].
“We know that with Christmas coming up it’s a busy time of the year, but the amount of knowledge imparted by the speakers was amazing and ensured that this event was well worth the journey to our offices. All the speakers were fantastic in their own ways and impressed the crowd greatly.”
GA is the only UK trade association serving the gift and home industry. It represents companies from manufacturers, designers, wholesalers, importers and exporters to retailers (independents, multiples and online) from sole traders to major PLCs.