Craft Focus - April/May 2020 (Issue 78)

49 PROFILE STICK WITH IT With a new range of colours and patterns, Duck Tape offers a multitude of possibilities for crafters. Managing director Jason Burns explains why retailers should be stocking the company’s products Tell us a little about Shurtape. Shurtape UK launched in 2010 with just two employees and of course, the support of the massive global organisation that is Shurtape LLC. The initial aim was to bring much-needed life back to the Duck Tape brand, which had been available in Britain since 1999 and required new focus and investment. The second goal was the launch of Frog Tape within the UK. The innovative masking tape is treated with special technology that allows the user to produce sharp lines when painting. It quickly became a market leader in the UK and Ireland. In 2014, Duck Tape Colours was introduced, bringing the collection to a whole new audience of crafters, upcyclers, students, designers and children. What products does the company supply for the craft and hobby market? The Duck Tape colour range includes a huge selection of bright, glittered, metallic and themed items that are easy to use, mess-free, self-adhesive and versatile. There’s also Frog Tape, an edge-treated masking product that’s ideal for use across a range of craft and upcycling projects. What are your bestselling lines? Within Duck Tape Colours, core shades like black, white, yellow and red are most popular. These can be used on their own or in conjunction with other colours and patterns to produce really fun and diverse creations, from clothing to flowers. The bestselling tape is our unicorn design, loved by children and adults alike. Are there any new launches coming up? In 2020 we will refresh our range of Duck Tape colours and patterns. It’s really important that each design is on-trend. We have also just launched our innovative T-Rex Super Glue Tape, which can be used by crafters to stick and mount products. Unlike traditional cyanoacrylate glue, there is no mess, no drying out and no stuck fingers! How would you advise a retailer who is interested in the range? We offer market leading brands and products which are supported by TV and other forms of above and below the line marketing support. We work tirelessly to develop new ideas and designs that will appeal to customers. Is the craft and hobby market a crucial category for the company? It’s hugely important to Shurtape UK and why we offer such a large range of colours, mounting and masking tapes. We are constantly working to bring innovation to the market with Duck FeltMounts and there are new patterns on the way. Do you offer support to retailers? We offer many forms of marketing and merchandising solutions for our customers, ranging from display stands to off-shelf permanent merchandising units. We enjoy working closely with our retail partners to find the best fit for their business. +44 (0)3330 156 600 ducktapecolours.co.uk