Posted by Rachel Westall on 26 September 2023
Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee, owned by Hyve Group, has announced that its connections programme Connect will not be running in 2024, while the business collaborates with the industry and key partners to create better shows and experiences for the future.
"I recognise that, during what are increasingly challenging times for everyone in retail, the introduction of Connect did not add value in the way we expected it to. Whilst for most the Autumn Fair was successful and produced great outcomes, it is clear that Connect became a distraction and cause of disruption. Up to now, our shows have been highly reliant on an analogue format which has remained the same for decades. We introduced Connect with the aim of improving how buyers and sellers do business at our events in a way which makes the most of time and resources. We hold our hands up that we fell short on executing this at Autumn Fair. For that reason, we will not be running Connect in 2024 at Spring Fair, Autumn Fair or Glee.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers again for their patience during this time and the continued support of these historic shows. We have listened to what they have to say, and we care about getting this right."
Focusing on the future of their retail portfolio beyond 2024, Spring and Autumn Fair and Glee are committed to creating meaningful experiences and on delivering quality buyers to the shows.
Exhibitors have been contacted with full details on the adjustments to fees and contract details relating to both Spring and Autumn Fair 2024.
Spring Fair 2024 takes place 4th – 7th February 2024 www.springfair.com
Autumn Fair 2024 takes place 1st – 4th September 2024 www.autumnfair.com