Source Home & Gift, which takes place in Hall 18 at the NEC on 1–4 September, has put the spotlight on the social enterprises empowering small artisan makers around the world to champion their unique craftsmanship.
The September show – which unites global manufacturers with high-profile retailers, brands, and designers looking to responsibly and sustainably source new products – continues to showcase social enterprises that empower local communities and craftspeople. They will be showcased in a new Makers section, introduced to offer a dedicated space for artisan producers.
Among the unique propositions of Source Home & Gift is its support for smaller-scale artisans from across the globe but with a focus on developing countries.
Makers exhibitors include:
Sumaq Qara, which has a mission to support female victims of terrorism and domestic violence in Peru. The organisation offers a wide portfolio of knit, embroidery, crochet and macramé products, working with natural wools and fibres.
Claybotik’s vision is to revive the dying art of stoneware pottery, providing employment to local artisans to create handmade ceramics with contemporary designs influenced from traditional Indian patterns.
Beyond Borders Fair Trade works with 100 artists in Haiti – also known as Extol Accessories – which has been working with and nurturing Haitian artists in Croix-des-Bouquets for 15 years. They will be presenting a showcase of new designs to showcase the artist’s skill and handmade pieces.
“Featuring hand-picked exhibitors chosen for the quality of their items and their authentic community stories is incredibly inspiring,” states Suzanne Ellingham, event director of Source Home & Gift. “Our aim is to create a show with beautiful, well-made products that don’t cost the earth, quite literally, and allow their makers – be it those who are in villages, or those in factories – to live well from their work. I’m thrilled that the work we do in building a responsible sourcing platform in the UK and Europe is being so well received by our UK buying community.”
More than 460 manufacturers are expected to show at the next edition making it the biggest show to date. All exhibitors at Source Home & Gift are required to have a recent audit from Sedex or a recognisable audit institution.
An Advisory Board, dedicated to promoting responsible and ethical production in the home and giftware industry,
will guide the future direction of Source Home & Gift, ensuring the show continues to deliver cutting-edge content across the entire supply chain.
On the Board are: Nicola Kirby, head of UK sourcing, John Lewis; Claire Bevan, head of retail, Natural History Museum; Alison Maynard, head of retail, Longleat Enterprises; Andrew Goodacre, ceo, British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) Hayley Shore, design director, PepsiCo.
“Source Home & Gift was created in response to industry feedback,” comments Suzanne. “The formation of the Advisory Board is a thrilling development for the show. As we rapidly grow, it is crucial that our direction is guided by the community we serve. I am eager to collaborate with this exceptional board of experts and leaders.”
Visit www.source-homeandgift.com
Top: Visitors browsing the aisles at a recent Source Home & Gift show.
