UK-based hobby and lifestyle exhibition organiser International Craft and Hobby Fair (ICHF) Events has acquired the Crafting Live Events, which take place each year at Sandown Park and Doncaster Racecourse in England, for an undisclosed amount.
Crafting Live Sandown, which takes place from 28 February to 1 March 2025 and Crafting Live Doncaster, which will be held in July next year, were previously owned by Highlight Crafts.
Karl Shaw, managing director and Stephanie Weightman, creative director at Highlight Crafts will remain with the business.
Shaw said: “We have worked with ICHF for nearly 30 years through its Creative Craft Shows around the UK and are thrilled to bring Crafting Live into the ICHF family.
“This partnership allows us to unify our efforts in nurturing and growing the crafting community. With Crafting Live now part of ICHF Events, we can provide even greater support to our exhibitors and create unparalleled experiences for crafters across the UK.”
For exhibitors, the deal provides a strengthened platform to showcase their brands to a passionate and engaged audience, free from the challenges of online marketing.
Andrew Dymock, head of marketing at Create & Craft TV said: “We are really pleased that ICHF, with its pedigree of well-organised feature-led shows, is taking these events on and we are looking forward to helping them move forward in the ever-changing world of crafts”.
ICHF runs a raft of sewing, hobby, craft, gift and cake shows, including CHSI Stitches, Cake International, Sewing for Pleasure, The Scottish Quilting Show and Country Craft Show.
ICHF Events managing director Simon Burns said: ”As the crafting industry continues to evolve, with the decline of high street craft stores and the rise of online alternatives, live events like ours are more important than ever. They provide a unique space where crafters can experience the joy of learning and sharing in person, ensuring that the art of crafting remains a cherished and growing part of our culture. We are confident that this partnership will inspire even more creativity and passion within the crafting community, and we look forward to seeing new and returning visitors at our upcoming events.”
