Craft Focus - October/November (Issue 75)

10 ICHF TO RESEARCH NEW AREAS FOR 2020 CRAFT REPORT ICHF Events has extended its areas of research for the 2020 Craft Report. The results will be revealed exclusively at CHSI Stitches next February. Now in its third year, The Craft Report has become a much- anticipated feature of the show, providing important data for exhibitors and visitors. For 2020, fresh lines of research are being developed based on feedback from attendees at last year’s event. New themes will include environmental concerns, world trends, sources of customer inspiration, the power of influencers, the importance of innovation, wellbeing and the new generation of crafters. “Overall trends in the industry will still be at the heart of the report, but to continue to inspire exhibitors and visitors alike, we are extending the research to cover some emerging themes which are particularly relevant to the craft industry,” says Simon Burns, managing director of ICHF Events. “Some of the topics were touched on lightly last year but were of such interest that we developed them further, drilling deeper into the topics and monitoring changes over the last 12 months. Other areas will provide a brand-new vital insight into craft audiences, enabling the industry to be better equipped to grasp opportunities and try new initiatives for better business.” The results will be gathered from interviews, focus groups and questionnaires, with a combined sample of more than 3,000 dedicated crafters from across the UK. CHSI Stitches will take place from 16 th -18 th February 2020 at the NEC, Birmingham. To find out about exhibiting, call Steve Mitchell on +44 (0)1425 460 811 or email stevem@ichf.co.uk . Keep up with show developments at chsi.co.uk New retail sales director at VENT for Change Sustainable stationery brand VENT for Change has announced the appointment of Lucy Heath as retail sales director. Lucy has a wealth of experience in the sector, including an 11-year stint at Gemma International. She has also worked with Santoro and Russ Berrie alongside both British and French stationery retailers. “We are very excited to have Lucy join the team. Her expertise and experience in the retail sector is going to help us enormously,” says Evan Lewis, company founder. “The further she can spread the range, the more support we can give to children’s education projects around the world.” The appointment comes as VENT for Change prepares for the launch of its raw recycled range. Every product in the brand’s portfolio is produced with the environment in mind and proceeds from each sale go towards educational projects for young people across the globe. Go www.ventforchange.co.uk for details. Polymer clay sales receive a strong boost A report published by PMR has revealed that sales of polymer clay are receiving a boost from the educational toy industry. The study, which analysed sales over a four-year period found that the global market is expected to grow over the next 10 years. This was largely attributed to the toy industry in the developing economies of South and East Asia as well as in North America and Europe. The increase in dual-income households and improved purchasing sentiments were also cited as factors. Growing interest in toys that promote cognitive development is set to fuel demand further. Visit persistencemarketresearch.com Michael’s Bridal Fabrics launches new website Michael’s Bridal Fabrics has launched its long-awaited new website after a year of planning. The project started with a large investment to bring the company up-to-date, replacing the internal software that was used for most tasks. The business now has a database of products and customer records, enabling it to provide access to individual information. This means clients can sign in and print off account details such as invoices and orders. A German and French version of the site will be available in due course, and it is optimised for use on mobile and tablet devices. New features include a search function, together with images of each product in all its colour variations. Prices will be viewable to customers with log-in access and secure payments will be available. Go to michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk to see what’s new.