Craft Focus - Aug/Sep (Issue 68)

craft focus 13 industry news TOY FAIR OPENING IN OLYMPIA THIS JANUARY Toy Fair 2019 will return to Olympia, London from 22 nd – 24 th January, welcoming a huge range of toy and hobby manufacturers and distributors to the show. Featuring both start-ups and well-known brands, the show has already secured an 81 per cent re-booking rate for returning exhibitors. Big names will include Spin Master, Ravensburger, Fiesta Crafts, Golden Bear and Orchard Toys. Retailers and buyers will be able to view a selection of new and forthcoming trends. “We are very much looking forward to welcoming back such a large number of visiting companies,” says Majen Immink, Director of Fairs and Special Events. “It’s encouraging to have received so many applications, and we are extremely appreciative of the support the industry continues to provide the show. We have already received an exciting number of new enquiries and look forward to attracting fresh faces from the industry as we seek to put on another busy three days.” The fair is organised by The British Toy and Hobby Association, which is committed to supporting new companies as part of the fair’s Greenhouse Area. This centrally-located zone is dedicated to smaller and start-up companies looking to make their mark within the industry. Over the years, this initiative has acted as a launchpad for numerous toy and game companies seeking the opportunity to meet some of the country’s top buyers. Due to its popularity, it was extended by 80 square metres last year, and will occupy the same space again in 2019. Find out more at toyfair.co.uk BLAKE ENVELOPES ANNOUNCES CHARITY PARTNERSHIP Blake Envelopes will be partnering with the charitable organisation School in a Bag, as part of its enhanced corporate social responsibility program. The stationery specialist is hoping the initiative will benefit the lives of thousands of school children across the globe. “We are keen to ensure that we can measure the impact of all our activity,” says Innovation and Marketing Director Tim Browning. “Our mission is to support social mobility for children by ensuring they have access to the materials they need to learn and be educated. There are millions of young people in the world who will never go to school and this will continue to be denied from them, unless we can make a difference.” The partnership was formally launched in July with a special charity day, and more than £10,000 was raised to fund school bags. “The event and the funds we have contributed has helped over 600 children,” continues Tim. “We would like to thank all our business partners who engaged with us to exceed our first target and look forward to their ongoing support.” Find out more at schoolinabag.org CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS ON SHOW AT KEW More than 150 designers will be on hand at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, from 4 th -7 th October for Handmade at Kew. The fourth edition of the contemporary craft and design event will showcase the work of international and UK-based artists, with textiles, jewellery, ceramics, glass and furniture on display. Tickets will also include access to the gardens, allowing visitors a chance to enjoy its beautiful glasshouses and stunning blooms while browsing, buying or commissioning work. Handmade at Kew also offers the opportunity to unearth the stories, inspirations and processes behind each work and view latest collections up close. For more information, go to handmadeinbritain.co.uk/kew