As the industry readies for Harrogate International Nursery Fair on 16 to 18 October, 2022, at the Harrogate Convention Centre, suppliers and retailers alike are applauding the move back to UK-based events.
With an increase in demand for stand space enabling the opening of an extra hall this year, Adrian Sneyd, organiser, believes the growth in exhibitor numbers is thanks to the pandemic: “We believe that the demand has been a direct result of the Covid pandemic and the overall effect this has had on other international trade shows.
“British retailers and buyers have benefited from being able to source products locally and international visitors appear to have confidence in coming to the UK, meaning we have seen more international exhibitors this year than ever before.”
The time away from networking may have in fact been beneficial in seeing the value of UK shows. Amy Wildman, sales and marketing director at Halilit, explained: “I believe that Covid has given both companies and individuals some time needed to evaluate how best to maximise productivity without excessive cost or time commitments.
“Not only does this reduce time and cost, it also opens the door for smaller or start-up brands, which might hot have the opportunity to participate in the larger scale events. Likewise, as companies become more environmentally conscious, travelling overseas for meetings when there are equivalent options locally, might be something that is re-evaluated and scaled back on.”
Supporting local is important, as Caroline Taylor, director of Merrygoround explained: “I hope there has been a shift to domestic shows in addition to the other worldwide shows. There are many buyers who do not wish to travel abroad, but who want to see what they can stock in their businesses from the UK. I think a UK trade show should celebrate UK brands in particular, as this is good for UK business generally.”
Seeing more buyers on home soil is key for Joie. Damon Marriott, head of product management, commented: “The domestic shows are of great importance for us, as most retail partners are able to attend these.”
Retailers are also celebrating the growth of the Harrogate show. Natural Baby Shower founder, Victoria Hampson, said: “I’ve attended three times previously, but this will be our buyer Jemma’s first time and she will see it on a larger scale than I have before. It is fantastic to see the resurgence of Harrogate with so many brands attending again this year. It provides us with a fantastic opportunity to scout more brands, as well as getting hands on with product and having face to face meetings.”
