Autumn Fair opened its doors yesterday, (NEC, Sunday September 1), with highlights including The Autumn Fair Emporium, where visual merchandiser Debbie Flowerday stepped inside a shop front, created from recycled cardboard by N Smith, with a live window dressing.
Among the exhibitors reporting a successful first day was Criag Allen, owner and managing director of Home Fragrance Co. “We were busy from the off and saw quality, buyers. Plus, we had a good response to our newest launch, the Message candle where, when people burn it, they can see the message in the wax, such as Best Mum Ever.”
At Hot Tomato, managing director Alex Machin commented: “We’re showcasing over 400 products, and there was a lot of interest and great footfall. We also had a fabulous reaction to our new seasonal home range. It includes lots of sparkle for the festive season across stags, angels, trees and decorations.”
Also having a very busy day was Sally Moore, owner of The Wheat Bag Company. “We were really, really busy, and took a lot of orders. Our new wheat bag hot water bottles were especially popular along with our hand warmers.”
On the Widdop stand, among the new launches was Best of Breed. “For Autumn, with our Widdop family in mind, we have created a new collection featuring the most popular dog and cat breeds in the UK,” explains PR and marketing manager Sofia Agnew. “The designs are crafted in our Now or Never studios, where we can personalise and print favourite breeds on demand.”
Added Miss Milly’s owner Sarah Watmore: “Our stand was constantly busy, from the opening of the show until the end of the day. We took a lot of orders from new and existing customers and also had enquiries from new people opening shops – which is very positive. Especially popular was our new range of hand painted jewellery, as well as our magnetic brooches.”
Commented Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair: “We’re looking forward to welcoming over 12,000 buyers this week to explore a diverse, inspirational display of new products from over 800 suppliers. The first day was very busy with a lot of positive feedback.”
Autumn Fair will be welcoming visitors on up to 4pm on Wednesday 4 September.
Visit www.autumnfair.com, register at www.autumnfair.com/visitor-registration
Top: Autumn Fair welcomed visitors to the NEC yesterday.
