Scotland’s Trade Spring Fair saw returning confidence in the market at Clarion Retail’s gift market buying show, which closed 24 January.
After three days of orders being made, new contacts being established and networks being re-connected, the show at the SEC, Glasgow was deemed a success by exhibitors and buyers.
Off the back of a successful retail season in 2022 in Scotland, organiser said buyers are feeling optimistic about the year ahead, which was reflected in the orders generated.
Show director Mark Saunders said: “Whilst there are clearly big challenges still for all businesses, it will be considerably easier to navigate these as footfall in shops continues to build. The last three years have not been easy ones for exhibitions and in that time, new routes to market and subtle changes in buying patterns have emerged.
“However, over and over again, the overriding benefits of trade shows were evident. Face to face communication will not go away and the ability to see, feel, touch, taste and smell are a vitally important part of the buying process.”
One highlight of the show was the Best Product awards judged by retail experts Sarah Gordon from Luss General Store, Charmaine Fox from Caulders Garden Centres and Amy McCusker from Wee Box.
The Talking Shop Seminar Theatre hosted a series of talks on all aspects of retailing, including masterclasses on social media and online content, panel discussions with influencers and ‘Nessie’s Den’, where new young companies pitch to retailers in a light-hearted session.
The show also welcomed a visit from Ivan McKee MSP, minister for business, trade, tourism & enterprise, who toured the show and spoke about support for Scottish businesses.
Next year’s show takes place from 21-23 January 2024, while the Autumn Show is on the earlier date of 20-21 Aug 2023.
