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
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
The year 2026 began on a sparkling high as festive and gift buyers flocked to Harrogate for the UK's only dedicated Christmas trade show, Harrogate Christmas & Gift. Taking place in early January, the event welcomed a record number of buyers, with attendance up 12 percent on the 2025 show, underlining the continued strength and relevance of the sector's flagship event.
Posted: 27 January 2026
A2V Trade Limited announces the appointment of Heather Robbins as Managing Director, effective 1st February 2026. The appointment supports the company's next phase of international expansion as it evolves from an established founder-led start-up to a globally focused retail partner. Robbins brings over 20 years of retail experience, with the last 10 in senior leadership roles, including buying and trading at Hobbycraft and most recently as Buying Director at The Entertainer. Her expertise across retail operations, product development, and commercial strategy aims to strengthen A2V's trajectory to scale while continuing to deliver commercially successful product ranges at speed.
Posted: 22 January 2026
Hobbycraft, owned by Modella Capital, reports strong performance, with sales of its Christmas products up +21.6%. Top sellers included Ceramic Baubles, Wooden DIY Advents, Colour-in Cardboard Houses, Artificial Garlands, Dried Floral Wreaths and Velvet Ribbon, reflecting continued demand for DIY festive décor, handmade gifts and kids' activities. Total revenue over the past six weeks grew by +6.3%, with eCommerce up by +13.8%, highlighting the ongoing importance of Hobbycraft's digital platforms in inspiring creativity across the UK.
Posted: 20 January 2026
Heritage stationery brand, STABILO, is kicking off the new year with a product range extension – introducing The Cute Edition – Animal Vibes, the perfect pencil case refresh for school children. The Cute Edition range comprises of new designs for BOSS mini, point 88 & Pen 68 and Trio thick, all of which have been designed based on animal characters, each representing a specific emotion.
Posted: 15 January 2026
The Giftware Association (GA) is delighted to announce it has officially joined the British Retail Consortium (BRC), strengthening its commitment to championing and supporting businesses across the UK gift and home sector. The move marks a significant step in aligning the GA and its members with the UK's leading retail body, renowned for shaping policy, elevating retail standards, and supporting organisations across the evolving retail landscape.
Posted: 13 January 2026
With just one week to go, Top Drawer S/S26 is set to return to Olympia London from 11–13 January, bringing together hundreds of the world's most exciting design-led brands, trend insight, and retail intelligence at a pivotal moment for independent retail. To help visitors skip boring and FAST FWD to Design, Top Drawer S/S26 has been shaped around what buyers told the show they need most: sharper curation, more newness and practical ideas they can put to work immediately. The result is a tightly edited sourcing destination, designed to help retailers start 2026 with clarity, confidence and commercial edge.
Posted: 6 January 2026
Spring Fair, the UK's most influential retail trade event for Home, Gift and Fashion, is proud to announce the debut of the Widdop & Co Village, an immersive new destination showcasing innovation, storytelling, and product launches from one of the industry's most established suppliers. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 1 - 4 February 2026, the Widdop & Co Village will deliver a vibrant programme of live content, experiential showcases, and exclusive celebrity appearances.
Posted: 2 January 2026
The Autumn Budget has brought another wave of changes for UK small businesses, and many owners are wondering how these shifts will affect their plans for 2026. To help cut through the confusion, ActionCOACH UK – the UK's number one business coaching firm – teamed up with WealthBuilder's Kevin Whelan to translate this year's Budget into simple, practical insights business owners can act on right away.
Posted: 29 December 2025