Buyers flocked to the New Product and Sustainability Showcases in Hall 4 for a curated edit of the newest and most sustainable product launches, while in Hall 5, expert judges from the industry converged to make their selections for the 2023 Gift of the Year display by the Giftware Association.
Nicola Meadows, portfolio director at Spring & Autumn Fair said: “It has been an incredible opening day at Spring Fair, it was fantastic to see such long queues outside the halls this morning and it’s remained very busy all day. I’ve had so many conversations with our exhibitors and buyers who all express what a hugely positive impact the show has on their businesses.
“Spring Fair is such a key event in the buying calendars and an unrivalled marketplace for new products, networking, insightful content, and trends. We welcome the entire retail industry, including large and small retailers, buying groups, agents, associations, changemakers, and creatives, and it has evolved to become more than just a trade show, Spring Fair is an experience.”
The Inspiring Retail Stage welcomed a host of experts advising on business health, navigating the metaverse, and the latest innovations in sustainability messaging. Business media personality and international brand consultant, Kubi Springer discussed the importance of personal branding in a highlight for the opening day.
TV Dragon and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis attends the show today (Tuesday 7 February) to see the #SBS Small Business Sunday designers who are exhibiting at the show. At 2.30pm Theo takes to the stage to delve into some of the current challenges facing businesses across the UK, as well as the opportunities that can often arise out of tougher trading conditions.