Craft Focus - April/May 2020 (Issue 78)

25 PROFILE Get to know V iridian David Husbands, director of Viridian, discusses why the friendly craft company continues to thrive year after year +44 (0)117 300 5244 viridianyarn.com Tell us a bit about Viridian. When did the company begin and why? What’s your background? Viridian came about as a transfer from a giftware company to a knitting craft company. Viridian Distribution Ltd started trading in 2009. Prior to that we were part of Viridian Trading Ltd specialising in sock yarn, knitting, crochet tools and accessories, and continued in this sector as Viridian Distribution Ltd. What products do you specialise in? We specialise in Opal self-patterning sock yarn, KnitPro knitting and crochet accessories, Clover knitting, crochet and haberdashery accessories and Eucalan the original no-rinse laundry wash. Are you the exclusive distributors of any products? We’re the UK’s exclusive distributor of Opal sock yarn and Eucalan no-rinse laundry wash. What sets you apart from your competitors? We have more than 20 years’ hobby craft industry experience and have been in distribution for around 40 years. We provide a fast, attentive and friendly service, and truly believe that our customers benefit from our personal, supportive approach with our family ethos of customers first. All our customers receive personal account management, no call centre set up, so we know what our individual customer needs are. We normally offer a next working day delivery on orders received before 1pm and our customers receive an hour window delivery slot via email or text. Do you exhibit at any trade shows? For many years Viridian has exhibited at the annual ICHF Stitches which has always proven to be a success and the organisers are a delight to work with. How is the current trading environment for the world of craft? Currently the market seems buoyant, we’ve seen an increase in craft stores setting up which is a positive sign. Let’s hope this trend continues. What can we expect from Viridian in the future? Viridian is always on the lookout for new and innovative products for us to share with our customers, we hope to expand our ranges to include some kits.