Industry stalwart Jo Howard to step-down, PH editorial team expansion and promotions.

Progressive Housewares’ long-standing editor Jo Howard will step-down from her role at the end of October 2022 to join her family business – a decision fully supported by Max Publishing. This follows some 25 years service as editor of the industry’s leading magazine, HousewaresNews.net, and as organiser of the Excellence In Housewares Awards.

Jo will be replaced by Katie Roberts-Mason, who similarly holds two decades in trade media communications and has been a part of the Max Publishing group for several years, writing for titles including Progressive Preschool, Progressive Party, and the Licensing Source Book. Katie will be supported by Samantha Loveday, who was appointed group editor of Max Publishing in early 2022.

Rob Willis, director and co-owner at Max Publishing said: “Per my opening speech at last week’s Excellence In Housewares Awards, it is testament to Jo’s ability and knowledge that we’ve had to replace her with not one, but two editorial experts. Jo’s knowledge of the housewares sector has always been totally unrivalled, she is incredibly well respected in the housewares community and whilst it’s a sad day of departure approaching, we vow to continue her great legacy as Progressive Housewares remains the central hub of the sector with a very specific plan of expansion in the coming months and years ahead.”

Jo Howard’s history was recognised at last week’s Excellence In Housewares Awards, during which Jakki Brown, editorial director and co-owner at Max Publishing crowned Jo as the Honorary Achievement Award recipient. Jo was unaware of the plans and was deeply applauded along with a standing ovation from the community she has served so well.

In addition to editorial team changes, Max Publishing is also pleased to announce that John Barry, currently advertisement manager for PH, has been promoted to commercial manager for the home, gift and lifestyle division within Max – spanning Progressive Housewares, Progressive Tableware, Progressive Gifts & Home, plus their associated digital titles and events. Rob added: “John has proved to be a real mover and shaker in the industry, always abreast of developments and changes. His remit is to sell marketing campaigns, but his clients see him as so much more than that – and he is. Well done, John.”

Katie can be reached on katierm@max-publishing.co.uk

Samantha Loveday can be reached on saml@max-publishing.co.uk