Craft Focus - Apr/May (Issue 66)

very optimistic. The existing Brexit debate is giving way to a discussion about what trading arrangement is mutually beneficial to the EU and the UK. That’s a good non-political debate and is important for companies like us that sell into the EU. Is Hantex active on the trade show circuit? How important is this as a tool for business development? At Hantex, we view trade shows very much as a means to an end. If you can see a tangible benefit from attending then it’s probably good to do so. We are primarily focused on our customers being able to purchase products and see new lines, 365 days a year, at a time that suits them, so I guess the trade show concept is not one of our top priorities. In recent years many of our customers, especially smaller manufacturers, are not finding these shows as relevant and we find that sampling is a more cost-effective way of reaching them. What’s coming up for Hantex next? Much of the groundwork for exciting changes in 2018 was carried out last year, including major system updates that have allowed us to improve productivity and customer service. Whilst we only supply businesses, we have close contact with the wider sewing community via our brands and we’re looking forward to working on several new projects. The sewing and creative community generally has a strong set of values relating to the products it uses and their effect on the wider environment. At Hantex, we believe we have a duty to ensure that the impact of the products we supply on our surroundings is minimised, so expect positive changes in that area. Look also for more organic materials at prices approaching regular fabric, as well as ways that the sewing community can reduce plastic usage. SPRING FABRICS FROM HANTEX Indigo & Aster by Bari J brings together animals, blooming florals and multicultural- inspired designs. Deep blues, purples and greens highlight Bari’s painterly foliage, balanced by geometric prints. Monaluna’s latest organic collection, Journey, combines Southwestern elements and indigo ink illustrations with a sophisticated palette of blues, pinks and coral. New from Art Gallery Fabrics, Tallinn by Jessica Swift draws on the designer’s travels through Eastern Europe. This playful collection features picturesque villages, graceful swans and a deep love for quirky folk motifs. Oliver + S Liesl & Co craft focus 45 company profile