Craft Focus - Apr/May (Issue 66)

We are constantly looking out for innovative items and are bringing out new products to complement our existing range. We have recently introduced fine glitter in 40g and 100g jars with sprinkler lids in assorted colours - two Perspex stands, small and large, have been specifically made for these. Due to its success, we are currently in the process of adding more exciting colours. Other new lines will be introduced at the upcoming London Stationery Show. What are the big trends to be looking out for across the art and craft sector for the rest of 2018? We find that increasing numbers of our customers are purchasing their art and craft supplies online. Higher price items are selling well on the internet and where, in the past this was mainly in the last quarter of the year, it is now throughout the entire 12 months. Do you exhibit at trade shows – are these important to the company? What are the key events in your calendar? We will exhibit at the London Stationery Show on the 24 th and 25 th April at the Business Design Centre. Apart from seeing regular customers and keeping them updated on our product range, the show will also help us find new clients. Generally, we exhibit at a variety of shows and fairs throughout the year, including consumer events. We like to see potential end users to show them what we have on offer and what is new. We regularly have a stand at the Patchings Festival in July and also at Art Materials Live, part of The Creative Craft Show at NEC Birmingham in November, where we not only showcase our products but also use a live demonstrator to show what our Caran d’Ache range is capable of. Do you offer any forms of sales support to Jakar customers? We offer various merchandise stands and displays to help customers promote our products. Our dedicated team is happy to assist with customer queries, whether sales- related or of a technical nature. Where can retailers get see your product range and what is the best way to go about stocking them? We have several trade catalogues and a website showing products and contact details. We also have a national sales force. Both existing and potential customers can receive regular visits from one of our sales executives. We bring out special promotional offers throughout the year and send brochures by post and email to our customers regularly. Orders can be given to our sales executives or placed by phone or email. What’s coming up for Jakar for the rest of this year? Our sales executives will continue to call on our customers and we will also see as many of them at the London Stationery Show and regional consumer shows as we can. We will be adding new products to our existing range and continuing with our promotions. Jakar International +44 (0)20 8381 7000 jakar.co.uk craft focus 73 company profile