Jobs & People: Industry news from Craft Focus magazine

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US, POTS, AND A WELSH CHAPEL

Beloved The Great Pottery Throw Down judge and ceramic designer Keith Brymer Jones returns to the stage with a brand-new show, titled: Us, Pots and a Welsh Chapel. Join Keith alongside his partner in life and crime, actor and designer Marj Hogarth, as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project yet... bringing a building back to life.

Posted: 26 May 2026

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Britain urged to back small businesses

Britain risks weakening its economy by taking small businesses for granted, according to Nigel Botterill, who is launching a new national campaign to put them back at the centre of the conversation. Botterill, founder of Entrepreneurs Circle, is behind UK Small Business Week, a nationwide initiative taking place from 1–7 June that will bring together communities, entrepreneurs and local leaders in a coordinated push to recognise and support the businesses that form the backbone of the UK economy.

Posted: 19 May 2026

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THE GA RAISES INDUSTRY CONCERNS AT BANK OF ENGLAND GENESIS INITIATIVE MEETING 

The Giftware Association has joined the Bank of England and a coalition of UK trade associations as part of the Genesis Initiative, presenting new evidence on trading conditions and confidence across the gift, home and stationery sector. Alongside organisations including The Greeting Card Association, the meeting brought together industry voices to highlight current market trends, challenges facing small businesses, and the barriers holding back growth across the UK's independent retail and brand landscape.

Posted: 16 April 2026

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Association for Cultural Enterprises Opens Applications for Seeds of Change 2026

Applications are now open for Seeds of Change 2026, the Association for Cultural Enterprises' annual £10,000 prize fund supporting sustainable and entrepreneurial initiatives within the cultural sector. The Seeds of Change prize fund is designed to foster greater creativity and dynamism within income generation and environmental sustainability, inspiring arts, heritage and cultural organisations to think about innovative ways of generating income while improving their sustainable impact.

Posted: 31 March 2026

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Give customers the perfect Mother’s Day gift

This Mother's Day, retailers can offer shoppers a gift that's thoughtful, mindful, and truly memorable with Figured'Art's creative crafting collection. Our kits provide hours of calming, immersive pleasure and deliver results that can last a lifetime — a gift experience far beyond traditional options. Beautifully gift boxed and presented as complete sets, each product includes everything needed to create a masterpiece filled with love and memories. Ideal for families looking to enjoy a shared activity, these kits bring generations together in a relaxing, screen-free way.

Posted: 5 March 2026

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ZEBRA PEN FURTHER EXPANDS ITS UK TEAM

Japanese writing instruments manufacturer, Zebra Pen, is thrilled to announce the recent appointment of two new National Account Managers as it continues to spread its UK operations. With a wealth of industry experience gained over three decades, Jonathan Wint has made the move after spending the past 17 years with the Mitsubishi Pencil Company. Drawing from his rich knowledge of the sector, Jonathan will primarily be focusing upon the expansion of Zebra's retail presence.

Posted: 17 February 2026

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Craft & Crumb Takes Its Baking Kits to National TV

Craft & Crumb, the award-winning baking kit brand, is delighted to announce its appearance on BBC One's Dragons' Den. The episode will air on Thursday 12 February 2026 at 8pm and on BBC iPlayer. During the episode, Craft & Crumb founders Louise and Kate pitch their creative kits to the Dragons: Peter Jones, Steven Bartlett, Deborah Meaden, Susie Ma and Touker Suleyman. The founders will present their innovative, family-focused baking kits, which are designed to bring creativity, quality, and a sustainable approach to home baking.

Posted: 12 February 2026

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h+h cologne 2026: Trends, knowledge, and networking

From March 20th to 22nd, 2026, h+h cologne will open its doors and once again set new standards as the leading trade fair for the textile handicraft industry. With an almost sold-out exhibition center, a community-driven professional program, and creative offerings, the leading trade fair is an indispensable event for the industry. In addition to internationally established brands, numerous newcomers, smaller exhibitors, and specialised service providers shape the picture—a mix that offers the industry a multifaceted environment for ordering, exchange, and development.

Posted: 3 February 2026

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Product recall: Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft 1000 Pieces

A product recall statement from Hobbycraft below has been announced. They say, "Product safety is of the utmost importance to Hobbycraft. Following independent testing of a children's sand product previously sold by Hobbycraft, traces of asbestos have been identified in a limited number of samples. The product was removed from sale immediately after concerns were raised, and there is no evidence of any injury or harm to customers. In co-ordination with Trading Standards and the Office for Product Safety & Standards, we are voluntarily recalling the Giant Box of Craft with immediate effect. This recall is being undertaken as a precaution, in line with regulatory guidance and our own commitment to product safety.

Posted: 29 January 2026

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UK Hand Knitting Reveals First Crochet and Knit Along

UK Hand Knitting is thrilled to announce its very first Crochet and Knit Along — launching 7th April 2026! The team have joined forces with two phenomenal designers, Claire Montgomerie and Jeanette Sloan, who have each created an exclusive floral-themed project to celebrate the beauty of the seasons. Get ready to crochet, knit, connect, and celebrate the joy of making. This is one creative adventure you won't want to miss!

Posted: 8 January 2026

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