Craft Focus - April/May 2020 (Issue 78)

69 PROFILE Thirty years young Charlotte Tolley, buyer of crafts, gifts and toys at Country Baskets, takes us on a journey over the past 30 years from starting out on a small market stall to becoming a household name in the craft industry Tell me a little about Country Baskets. How long has the company been running? This year will be our 30 th birthday, can you believe we started on a little market stall at the Piece Hall in Halifax selling artificial flowers? We now have eight stores across the UK and operate online, selling more than 30,000 products across weddings, floral supplies, homewares, seasonal and more! Talk us through your product range − what products do you supply for the craft and hobby industry? Our craft range is getting stronger and stronger and covers multiple categories, from papercraft and tools to children’s craft and wool. Whether you’re a DIY bride, passionate about card making or love to knit, we have something for everyone and every occasion. How often do you launch new products? We offer new ranges monthly and new additions weekly. We’re always so excited about the craft items we source and can’t wait to get them on to the shelves for our customers to see. What products are currently on trend? Our eco range or our wood and paper mâché, including letters numbers and mini worlds. How do you source new trends in crafting? By visiting trade fairs and suppliers, using trend resources such as Trend Bible. Where do you look for inspiration? Inspiration is everywhere including across social media and trade fairs. What products have taken you by surprise with their popularity? Wool is still proving very popular and we are now looking to expand the range ready for the next season. How would you advise a retailer who is interested in becoming a stockist? The best way to view all our products would be to visit one of our Country Baskets stores. If you need any advice, our friendly members of staff are always happy to help! There’s no minimum order and we’re open seven days a week. There are many benefits of having a trade membership with us, from line breaks to free delivery (T&C’s apply). Visit the website cbgold.co.uk for more information. Do you exhibit at any trade shows? We haven’t currently got anything planned. However, it’s something that we’re looking into for this year as we love to meet new crafters and source new products. What’s coming up next for the company? In the near future, we’ll be working with a number of new suppliers to add even more product lines to the craft department. Make sure to keep checking online and in your local store for lots of exciting new lines coming through in 2020. Visit th e website cbgold.co.uk f or more information.