A significant leadership change is underway at the globally active family-owned business Schwan-STABILO.
With operations spanning Writing Instruments, Cosmetics, and Outdoor, and revenues of approximately 800 million, the Group employs more than 5,200 people in 38 locations worldwide. After nearly three decades in various leadership roles, Sebastian Schwanhäußer will step down from his operational responsibilities at the end of the current fiscal year and assumed the position of Chairman of the Advisory Board on July 1, 2025.
As of October 1, 2025, Michele Molon will take over as Group CEO of Schwan-STABILO. During the transition period, CFO Anke Buttler will lead the Group's operations.
Posted: 4 July 2025
The popular, coastal Giving & Living trade show will now take place from Sunday 18th to Tuesday 20th January 2026, in its usual venue, Westpoint in Exeter, just one mile off the M5, in the heart of the beautiful South West. The later dates mean that the show no longer clashes with Top Drawer Spring, or Harrogate Christmas Fair. Great news!
Posted: 10 June 2025
Anticipation is soaring for h+h americas 2025, the premier event for the creative crafts industry. Scheduled for May 7th to 9th, 2025, this year's show will feature over 541 exhibitors from 77 countries and US states and countries, 185 education sessions, 38 meetups and events, and six distinct pavilions — including, for the first time, a German Ministry- supported country pavilion.
Posted: 29 April 2025
Modella Capital, the specialist retail and consumer investment firm, has announced that it has acquired the UK High Street operations of WH Smith PLC. The acquisition covers c.480 stores on high streets, shopping centres and retail parks across the UK. WHSmith will retain its stores in airports, hospitals, railway stations and motorway service areas in the UK, as well as its significant operations in other countries. As part of the deal, the High Street stores will be rebranded as TGJones. They will keep the same products and services, including the Post Office and Toys "R" Us, and continue to trade as normal while Modella Capital works with the
management team to define and execute a strategy to introduce new ranges and other offerings in the future.
Posted: 15 April 2025
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retail sales volumes (quantity bought) are estimated to have risen by 0.2 per cent in November 2024, following a fall of 0.7 per cent in October 2024. Greg Zakowicz, senior ecommerce expert at Omnisend shares his comments with Craft Focus. To read the full ONS report and study their findings, simply visit the website: https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/retailindustry/bulletins/retailsales/november2024
Posted: 2 January 2025
Hornby Hobbies, the name behind iconic brands such as Hornby, Scalextric, Airfix, and Corgi, is excited to announce the launch of its new 'Model Shop of the Year' awards — a nationwide initiative designed to recognise and celebrate the independent model shops that are at the heart of the hobbyist community. With independent model shops playing a vital role in keeping hobbies alive and thriving, the awards aim to shine a spotlight on the retailers who go above and beyond to inspire and support hobbyists of all ages. From offering expert advice and fostering a welcoming environment, to keeping the passion for model-making alive, these shops are a crucial part of the hobby sector's future.
Posted: 14 November 2024
Spring Fair, which celebrates its 75th anniversary at the NEC Birmingham on 2nd – 5th February 2025, is delighted to announce twelve new winners of Theo Paphitis's #SBS Small Business Sunday initiative who each receive a free stand at the February show. Since 2018, the TV dragon and #SBS Small Business Sunday creator and Spring and Autumn Fair have joined forces to support start-up businesses. Together they have worked with over 60 SMEs, playing a vital role in their future success.
Posted: 15 October 2024
A breakthrough business in an industry that has barely changed in centuries, Pop-up Frames launched their small pop-up frames last year which feature on Create & Craft TV. They 're sold online and offline at a RRP from £5 through various independent retailers and galleries across the UK. Pop-up Frames is now launching their Medium and Poster self-assembled framing kits which can be cut into 38 different sizes from 21cm up to 92cm using just a pair of scissors, and then assembled in a few minutes and hung without damaging the wall. The RRPs are from £7 and £12.50 respectively.
Posted: 3 October 2024
Just Fabrics, the renowned fabric retailer, has announced the launch of Just Fabrics The Academy. This new platform offers a collection of expert-led video courses designed to empower users to create stunning, one-of-a-kind soft furnishings for their homes. The Academy offers a variety of courses to choose from, including: Frill Cushion, Beginners Roman Blinds, Beginners Curtains, Piped Cushion, and Box Cushions.
Posted: 26 September 2024
After a successful transition phase, the consumer goods trade fairs Christmasworld and Creativeworld have a new show director. On 1st August 2024, Stefan Schopp took over from Eva Olbrich, who commenced her well-deserved retirement at the end of July. With the Conzoom Circle network, Messe Frankfurt links the most important international platforms for the global consumer goods and retail industry and bundles industry knowledge and expertise.
Posted: 22 August 2024