09 December 2024, 23:27
By Furniture News Jan 11, 2013

Spring Fair grows business

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Despite the tough trading climate, organiser of Spring Fair, i2i, has revealed an 8% increase in exhibitors due to participate in this year’s event. Combining over 3000 exhibitors across 12 sectors with a savvy business seminar programme, it’s no wonder that the exhibition is the UK’s largest sourcing platform for the nation’s retailers.
Due to take place from 3rd-7th February at Birmingham’s NEC, Spring Fair is a must-attend event for furniture and furnishing retailers looking to source innovative new products from British and international suppliers.
Following the re-edit of its Contemporary Gift & Home section in 2012, Spring Fair has reported a 40% growth this year – further emphasising Spring Fair’s position as a major sourcing hub. In addition, the Home Interiors & Furniture Hall has seen an 11% rise in exhibitors, which is sure to increase its appeal with furniture buyers. The staple Home & Volume section remains a popular draw for retailers, and as in previous editions, volume buyers may preview the event on 2nd February.
Organiser i2i has reported that thousands of buyers have expressed a primary or secondary interest in the Home Interiors & Furniture category, where buyers can source design-led furniture, soft furnishings, lighting, wall art and decorative accessories. This has, inevitably, attracted a number of new exhibitors in the furniture category – further increasing the show’s appeal for retailers seeking innovative, new furniture designs. Moreover, the category will be bolstered with the addition of a new Moroccan pavilion of furniture and home accessories this year.
“We are committed to delivering a strong show that puts great visitor experience and a good return on investment for our customers right at the heart of everything we do,” says Louise Young, divisional director for Gift & Home at i2i.
“We are continuing to invest in features and content that will inspire retailers and guide their buying in the year ahead, helping them to compete effectively and source the products that will generate great sell-through and increased profits.”
A key part of this is its dedicated retail seminar programme. Tailored to offer solutions for retailers in the challenging economic climate, this year’s programme is one of its most comprehensive to date. Featuring topics such as ecommerce, digital marketing strategies, customer service, streamlining operations and trends to watch out for, the seminar programme aims to tackle the issues which affect independents and multiples, and their business models – whether online or offline.
“Spring Fair is a committed supporter of the British retail industry, and as such, made significant investments in the seminar content on offer at the show, as a wider initiative to support the retail community via easily accessible, effective business advice that is freely available for all visitors,” Louise says.
Comfort and convenience of its visitors, too, is of the utmost importance to i2i, and, as in previous editions, rest and relaxation areas will be available for use throughout the halls. Product trails will also be available, helping buyers efficiently source the type of products most suitable for their businesses.
This is in addition to the popular established show features, which include Cook Live!, The Jewellery Show Catwalk, the Toy Demo Area and Fashion Accessories Catwalk.
The event is open to trade buyers and suppliers – entry is free for those who have pre-registered, and £30 for those who have not.
W springfair.com

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