Autumn Fair has announced the launch of its new campaign theme, 'From the Show Floor to Your Shop Window', promising a celebration of newness and original products that will bring retail stores to life, putting the spotlight on the allure of the ‘shop window’ and the best of British suppliers.
Following dialogue with key partners, buyers and key brands, Autumn Fair will return to the NEC Birmingham from 1st-4th September with "a renewed focus on independent retailers", says organiser Hyve: "Placing the buying experience at the forefront, the show revamps as the indispensable destination for buyers to explore a wealth of new and captivating products. Recognising the importance of swift transitions from the show floor to the shop window, Autumn Fair will curate a selection of over 500 suppliers primed to deliver on smaller minimums, establishing the event as the retail industries go-to for independents seeking seamless and efficient sourcing.
"Showcasing its importance in the retail calendar, Autumn Fair 2024 will host the retail market’s bellwether brands in every major sector across home, gift and fashion, with over 30% of brands exclusive to the show. The September buying show will also celebrate the best that Britain has to offer, paying homage to the British suppliers who are able to fulfil quick turnarounds with new products on small order quantities to cater to the evolving needs of the indies.
"Attracting a diverse array of independent retailers eager to rejuvenate their product offerings for the bustling year-end season, Autumn Fair has introduced entry-level exhibitor packages and pavilions to satisfy the desire for newness and enable new businesses with fresh ideas the opportunity to meet their first customers."
Jackson Szabo, portfolio director for Autumn Fair, says: “We’ve listened to all the constructive feedback from our community, and we’re excited to bring a new energy and focus to Autumn Fair. From the show floor to the shop window, every retailer wants to be inspired with original products that they believe will bring their stores to life.
"Autumn Fair is where buyers come to shop. Where products discovered at the show are of such exceptional quality that they deserve a prime spot in shop windows. Independents flock to Autumn Fair to replenish inventory for end-of-year (peak season), and the buying trend is now little and often. With limited storage capacity and lower cash flow, this buying strategy is necessary to prepare for the increase in end-of-year sales. Autumn Fair provides the last opportunity in the year for product exploration.
“We will be putting buying at the forefront of everything we do. We’ll be revamping the way buyers shop the show with improvements to the onsite experience, website, registration and more to help them best prepare and get the most out of the show. We’ll be creating more trails and buyer experiences to enable them to find the right brands.
"Indies need to make every second away from the store count. They need to be efficient and effective especially during a busy time of the season, and Autumn Fair will be their trusted resource to shop the brands that can make a difference for them now.”
