Craft Focus - February/March 2024 (Issue 101)

TIME FOR STITCHES It’s that time of year when keen crafters and stitchers head to the NEC. Here’s what to expect at CHSI Stitches this year As we step into 2024, February remains a pivotal month for enthusiasts in the craft industry, marked by the highly anticipated CHSI Stitches trade show. Set against the backdrop of the NEC in Birmingham, this year’s event spans from Sunday 25th to Monday 26th February, promising an immersive experience for professionals engaged in product sourcing, professional development, and networking. THE 3 P’S Embracing a fresh perspective for 2024, CHSI Stitches unveils its new theme. This year, the trade show delves into a well-established and widely accepted business concept, the 3 P’s of sustainability, also known as the triple bottom line. This concept emphasises the importance of balancing three critical elements: social responsibility (People), environmental stewardship (Planet), and economic profitability (Profit). Achieving the right balance among these three pillars is crucial for organisations and the craft industry as a whole. WHAT TO EXPECT The CHSI Stitches 2024 show proudly boasts an extensive array of craft products, curated by leading suppliers eager to showcase their latest innovations. From traditional favourites to cutting-edge materials, the exhibition promises a diverse range of offerings to captivate the imagination of craft enthusiasts. One of the highlights of CHSI Stitches 2024 is the presence of respected business experts who will share essential insights, offering a wealth of knowledge to empower professionals in the creative craft industry. Their expertise will cover a spectrum of topics, addressing challenges and providing strategic guidance to navigate the dynamic market landscape. In addition to the wealth of knowledge and products on display, attendees can anticipate an exciting lineup of new product demonstrations. Witness firsthand the unveiling of groundbreaking materials, tools, and techniques that promise to elevate the art of crafting to new heights. As the craft community converges at CHSI Stitches 2024, it’s not just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the shared passion that unites artisans and professionals alike. Be prepared to be inspired, informed, and invigorated by the vibrant energy of the UK’s premier craft trade show. INSIGHTS HUB Show organisers ICHF Events have announced a line-up of speakers to help retailers navigate the current economic landscape, embrace sustainability and ensure their businesses thrive. Focusing on key factors in the customer decision making process, each speaker brings their own experience and expertise to the sessions at the Insights Hub, running each day of the show from 9.45am. Inspirational keynote addresses come from professionals with unparalleled experience in retail, branding and sustainability. SPEAKERS AND EXPERIENCES One of the event’s highlights is its quality speaker programme, bringing together leading lights in retail, e-commerce and digital marketing among other disciplines. These hugely popular speaker sessions provide a focal point for discussion, learning and collaboration. The latest speaker line up to date can be found here: www.chsi.co.uk/education/expert-speakers Speakers include: • James Gold is a successful entrepreneur and businessman who has taken the fashion world by storm with his brand Skinnydip. James co-founded Skinnydip 31 STITCHES

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