As the doors closed on the 2026 edition of Giving & Living, the most important retail trade event for the South West region, organiser, Hale Events announced that it was to be the last event of its kind and issued the following statement:
Following conversations with our longstanding clients at this year’s event, Hale Events can confirm that the 2026 edition of our Devon-based Giving & Living Trade Show was its last.
“This show has marked a significant chapter in the life of the gifting industry, Hale Events, and for me personally,” said Mike Anderson, Managing Director. “This decision comes after careful consideration. While the gift and home market continues to grow, the way products reach consumers has changed dramatically over the past decade and accelerated since the pandemic. Many businesses now sell direct
to consumers or combine consumer and trade sales, and online B2B platforms and marketplaces such as Amazon, Etsy, Faire, and Temu have become significant routes to market”.
Particular thanks from Hale extends to all the organisations that have supported the show over its history. There has been unwavering support from a strong cohort of exhibitors and visitors, and from contractors and service providers.
Mike commented “The show has taken place in the South West since 1965 & I have personally worked on the show for the last 37 years. It is an emotional day, but we are immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. We would like to thank all the buyers and exhibitors that have supported this regional trade show over time. Every product has its life cycle.”
Pictured is Brian Lownds-Pateman of company Babbacombe Pottery and Sales Manager, Paul Thomas, who presented him with a bottle of bubbly to recognise the extensive period that he has been involved. . Brian first attended this trade show with his father, in 1970, when it took place in Torquay, Devon.
Home & Giftware magazine greatly enjoyed visiting Giving & Living over the years, a show with the nicest organising team you could hope to meet and a wonderfully eclectic mix of exhibitors that included a strong contingent of British makers and unique coastal-themed gift and homeware. We’re very sorry to see the end of this particular era but look forw
