Posted by Rachel Westall on 1 February 2021
The Craft Network is a brand-new initiative which has been created to provide the UK craft industry with a joined-up and credible approach to help stimulate and sustain the growing creative craft market. Brought to you by ICHF Events and Bert & Gert’s, the Craft Network will bring the B2B world of crafts together through networking, mentoring and knowledge sharing.
ICHF Events are the UK’s leading and longest standing organiser of both trade and consumer craft, hobby and lifestyle events. Bert and Gert’s are the renowned organisers of craft events and markets across the UK. Both companies are family-owned businesses with a strong community focus, the Craft Network is perfectly aligned with their company values.
This collaboration provides an existing B2B network representing over 1,000 dedicated craft companies. The Craft Network is to be run by a steering committee of industry professionals representing the creative market.
Building on the collaborative approach, the team behind the Craft Network will work to stimulate creativity, build partnerships and grow the creative industry.
The new membership organisation has big plans to facilitate connections, drive stimulation, increase mental and physical wellbeing and provide inspiration. This will be achieved through networking events, demonstrations, industry education and experience led content.
Steve Mitchell event director, CHSI Stitches says "Following a tough year we are excited to launch the Craft Network and to bring the industry together in 2021. We are putting together an experienced and diverse steering committee to drive the organisation forward, offer best practice advice and provide the best possible support to craft businesses in what is expected to be a big year."
"Businesses have had to adapt this year following the global pandemic and there has been lots of developments and learnings as a result. The Craft Network has been curated so that our members can benefit from the experience, knowledge and connections from within the craft industry and across industries" said Mark Wilkes, director of Bert & Gert's.
The Craft Network is now working with its steering committee for a launch event alongside CHSI Stiches ,9th -10th May, 2021 at the NEC Birmingham. To discuss membership options contact Steve Mitchell on +44 (0)1425 460 811 or email contact@thecraftnetwork.org
For more information please visit www.thecraftnetwork.org