Glasgow event moves forward to Saturday to avoid The Queen’s State Funeral clash
Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn exhibition has pulled its opening forward by a day this coming weekend to avoid clashing with the funeral of Her Majesty The Queen.
Originally scheduled for Sunday and Monday, 18-19 September, the trade show at Glasgow’s SEC will now run over tomorrow and Sunday, 17-18 September.
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last week, her State Funeral is now taking place at London’s Westminster Abbey on Monday, 19 September, at 11am, which has been declared as a public holiday throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with many retailers including WHSmith High Street, John Lewis, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s set to close, along with the majority of independent greetings stores.
For those originally planning on attending Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn on Monday, show organiser Springboard Events said: “It is hoped they will be able to attend on Saturday and Sunday. There is no need to re-register if you already have a ticket but if you would like to attend there is still time to register for free via this link.
With around 200 exhibitors, this show offers buyers the last chance to stock up for Christmas 2022 and get a peek at 2023 ranges, with innovation and creativity from suppliers such as Amy Britton, Bluebell Gray, Glen Appin, Darach, Barrhead Leather, Eco Chic and Eton Watches.
As well as gifts, jewellery, and accessories there are some food companies displaying Christmas offerings, and the greetings and stationery category includes All That Glitters, Atoms To Astronauts, Audrey & Jeff, Chloe Gardner, Christine Allan Artist, Christine Gilbert Art, Claire Baird, F&B Cards, Heather & Haggis, Hole In My Pocket & Eat Haggis, Joy Nevada Illustration, Lin-Pin Crafts, Little Paper Soul, Lomond Books & Lyrical Scotland, Marc Peters Glass, Periodic Society, Pink Pig Cards, Sarah Leask Studios, Snappy Crocodile, The Grey Earl, The Silver Studio, Wairm, We Are Burntout, and Wee Wishes.
The show features a Launch Gallery to showcase new design-led businesses, and an Autumn Craft area of handmade, small-batch production and digital technology.
Soni Ahmed, of Maia Gifts in Glasgow, said: “This show is a must for us. Great range of companies, lots of new product and a really positive atmosphere. It’s really important for us to support local independent companies, and Scotland’s Trade Fair is the best way to do this.”
And Sheila Lambie, of Newtonmore’s The Hairy Coo, added: “Nothing can quite replace the live events where you can physically handle products and meet the people behind them face to face. Walking around trade shows can be exhausting but it’s certainly preferable to sitting in front of a screen scrolling for new ideas and products.”
Springboard Events, which runs the show on behalf of Clarion Events, added: “We apologise sincerely for this last-minute change of dates and your understanding is greatly appreciated. We look forward to seeing you at the weekend.”
