More than twice as many entries have been made for Gift of the Year 2014, with winners to be announced during Spring Fair
With the entry deadline for The GA’s Gift of the Year 2014 less than a week away, the association reported that entries were already more than double the previous year. Popular categories include Kids, Under £10, Kitchen & Dining, Home Accessories, Made in UK and Home Fragrance.
GA chief executive Isabel Martinson says that their strength may be a trends’ indicator, citing fashion jewellery and fashion accessories as examples where this has happened in previous years.
“There has definitely been a resurgence of interest in products made in the UK,” comments Isabel. “British retailers will always search out quality. But they also want products to be accessible, which is why home-based manufacturers – with shorter lead times that those from the Far East – are winning customers. And rising costs in China, coupled with higher freight charges, can also give them an edge.”
She believes that the growing popularity of the competition is due to a realisation by suppliers that winning Gift of the Year – or being highly commended – can boost sales and enhance their credibility.
The awards will be presented at the NEC, Birmingham, at the close of Spring Fair on Sunday, February 2. The headline sponsor is show organiser i2i Events.
