Craft Focus - June/July 2025 (Issue 109)

22 Easyfairs UK announces launch of Easyfairs Packaging Council Easyfairs UK has announced the formation of the Easyfairs Packaging Council (EPC), a strategic advisory board that will play a key role in shaping the future of two of the packaging industry’s most significant events: London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. The newly established council brings together a prestigious group of industry leaders who will offer expert insights and guidance to ensure these events remain at the forefront of packaging innovation, sustainability, and technology. The Easyfairs Packaging Council will advise on event content, address emerging trends, and provide valuable perspectives on industry challenges. The council comprises an esteemed group of professionals from across the packaging industry. Current members include Cory Connors, Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions; and Szymon Klos, Senior Packaging Design Manager - Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, to name a few. As members of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, these industry experts will help guide the content and features of London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. Their contributions will range from offering strategic advice on stage content, speaking at events, moderating sessions, and serving as jury members for various awards. By leveraging the collective expertise of the council members, Easyfairs will be better equipped to shape these events to address the evolving needs of the packaging sector. The EPC will convene once a quarter, with opportunities for smaller, more focused discussions, and members will serve a two-year term. Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights & Innovation at WRAP, said, “WRAP has been working on supporting efforts to reduce the impacts that packaging can have on the environment for around two decades. We work collaboratively across the supply chain and have a thorough understanding of the challenges and solutions, which I’m looking forward to bringing to the group.” “With the launch of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, Easyfairs is reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class events that help shape the future of the packaging industry,” said Casey McHugh, Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global. “Collaboration is at the heart of innovation, and the EPC provides a unique opportunity to bring together industry experts from all corners of packaging. Their combined insights will ensure that our events continue to address the evolving needs of the industry, creating spaces for forward-thinking discussions and the exploration of new packaging solutions. The council will ensure that London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack continue to be leading platforms for innovation, networking, and industry advancement.” With one eye on London Packaging Week 2025, you can now register your interest in this event, where luxury packaging meets cutting-edge innovation. October’s exclusive two-day exhibition is a destination to connect with industry pioneers, discover the latest in bespoke and sustainable packaging, and immerse yourself in a world of luxury brand excellence. Visit: www.easyfairs.com The GOTY winners announced! The winners of Gift of the Year 2025, organised by The Giftware Association, were unveiled at a ceremony at the Royal Lancaster, London at The Gift Awards. Gift of the Year honours outstanding products that capture the spirit of giving across the retail landscape. This year saw a record-breaking number of entries and some of the most inventive, heartwarming, and sustainable gifts the industry has ever seen. And the winners are... Affordable Gifts: The Bouquet in a Book by David & Charles Ltd Beauty, Bath & Spa: Mineral Bathing Infusions by Wild Olive Ltd Branded Gift: The Gruffalo Collection by Blade and Rose Cards, Wraps & Stationery: Write Me Roses by Pikkii Children’s, Educational & Pre-School: Bathtime Range by Trixie Contemporary Gift: Collector Range by Burgon & Ball Design & Craft: Van Gogh Felt Sunflower Pack by The Crafty Kit Company Ltd Ethical & Sustainable Gift: Oyster Mushroom Growing Kit by Urban Farm-It Fashion Accessories, Textiles and Jewellery: Sterling Silver Jewellery Hollie Tree by Silver and Scents Festive & Occasions: Pirouette Countdowns by Santoro London Food & Drink: Asian Meal Gift Sets Tyga Foods Company Games and Puzzles: Zip It! By Pikkii Garden and Outdoors: Thirsty Planter by Pikkii Health & Wellbeing: Thoughts and Feelings Collection for Children by Fox Under The Moon Heritage Gifts: Royal Shakespeare Company x Nicole Elders - Master of Insults by Nicole Elders Home and Kitchen: Magnificent Mugs by Rosie Made A Thing Home Fragrance: Paddywax A Dopo by Designworks Collective Made in the UK: Bronte by Moon British Wool throw collection by Moon Novelty, Tech & Gadgets: Cheese & Crackers Game by House of Marbles (Town Mills Craft Centre) Ltd Pet Gift: Doggy Ice-Cream Kit by Dog & Bond To view all the winners and the Highly Commended head to www.giftoftheyear.co.uk

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