London’s Business Design Centre is currently a hive of activity as greeting card publishers of all shapes and sizes are titivating their stands, festooning them with a vast array of wonderful new designs in readiness for PG Live 2021, which kicks off tomorrow (July 27) at 9.30am and runs until Wednesday (July 28) at 4.30pm.
“It feels so joyful to be here; we’re buzzing at what feels like a good taste of the new normal,” commented Kate Leach, marketing manager of Woodmansterne Publications.
Echoing this, Mark Green, co-owner of Raspberry Blossom said: “I can’t tell you how much I am looking forward to seeing everyone after 18 months and showing them all our new designs face to face.”
Summing up their feelings, Lucy Creed and Bryn Dineen, co-owners of Poet and Painter said: “It feels like we are marching into the sound of gunfire, knowing that a land that is free and fun is very near!”
As ever, the Brainbox Candy boys have hopes for the show that are somewhat different to many others.
“I just hope I remember to wear my trousers because I haven’t been wearing any for 18 months,” revealed Ben Hickman, co-owner of the business. Reinforcing this, his business partner Mark Williams added: “Yes, my overriding concern is that Ben does remember to wear his trousers as, believe me, his knickers look is dismal!”
Exhibitors’ excitement is matched by retailers’ anticipation for the show.
“Excited? Me? Most definitely!” exclaimed Sarah Laker, owner of Stationery Supplies in Marple and Wilmslow while Yasmin Twist of Gee Tees, said “we are very much looking forward to PG tomorrow, one of the best dates in the diary, especially after all these months of having to learn a new way of living…bring on normality!”
Kaye Thurgood, founder of Sincerely Yours is another who is all raring to go. “I am so looking forward to browsing the show and spending some money!”
Sadly, due to travel restrictions, so many of PG Live’s loyal overseas visitors will not be at the show this year. However, John and Bindi Simson of Simson Cards in Melbourne recorded a special message…
Click below to hear from the Simos.
To register for PG Live 2021 just click here but retailers can just turn up on the door next Tuesday or Wednesday. The show opens at 9.30 on both days with a free Opening Night Drinks Party from 6pm-7.45pm.
The Business Design Centre is a safe, airy venue. Read about PG Live’s Covid policy by clicking here.
Top: PG Live 2021 opens tomorrow (July 27).
