The home, gift and fashion trade industries have been shocked by the news that Pure London founder and former MD of Spring and Autumn Fair, Louise Young, has died. Scottish born Louise passed away whilst on holiday in Portugal and is survived by her husband James.
A very familiar face and well-liked personality on the exhibition circuit, Louise had an illustrious career spanning several decades, having joined media conglomerate, EMAP, in the 1990s. During her time there she founded the fashion trade exhibitions 40˚ and Pure , with Pure remaining one of the biggest fashion trade shows in the UK.
Home & Giftware publisher, Charlotte Cowell, says: “I first met Louise whilst editing a greetings card trade magazine, where I was struck by her enthusiasm, sense of camaraderie and canny insight into the industry. I went onto work directly under her during my own tenure at EMAP (later Hyve Group), when she was heading up Spring Fair, Autumn Fair and The Jewellery Show and I was in charge of PR for the shows and our inhouse publication, Trading Talk.
“I sat opposite Louise for several years and learned a lot from her example. She had boundless energy, dedication and commitment to the job that she loved, which made her a true force to be reckoned with in this industry. She could be very good fun and one phrase of hers always stuck in my mind when she referred to herself – in her familiar Scottish accent – as ‘the President of Nicky Nacky Noos!’.
“I was shocked to hear of her sudden death at a relatively young age and would like to pass on my condolences to her family and friends”.
Hyve Group CEO Mark Shashoua said: “Louise was a remarkable woman who I had the pleasure of working alongside for a number of years. Her inspiring leadership, the championing of UK retail and her refreshingly unique style are what made her a truly standout leader. I think I speak on behalf of everyone at Hyve and our customers throughout the retail sector, that we are so saddened at losing Louise so soon.
“Having worked closely with Louise, I can attest to the joy she brought to the workplace. Her leadership qualities and commercial acumen earned her the respect of many within the industry. On behalf of the whole Hyve team, I want to express my deep respect and admiration for Louise and sadness and support for her husband, James, friends, and all who knew her. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Louise’s passing is a profound loss to our industry, but she leaves behind an enormous legacy that will continue to inspire and shape the future of our events, as well as independent businesses and women in leadership. Her memory will forever live on in the vibrant spirit of the events she helped to build, and in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.
