Hall 3 sees launch of new destination, GCA’s giant card and 75th anniversary events galore
A new Greetings, Party & Celebration destination has been launched for Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary show that’s fast approaching, and registration is now open for show visitors.
Slated for 2-5 February at Birmingham’s NEC, Hall 3 will be the home for greeting cards, wrapping paper, stationery, paper decorations and party suppliers.
A series of exciting events and activations is being planned for the show’s 75th anniversary, including collaborations with the GCA, buying group Cardgains, and cardboard maestros N Smith, with both visitors and exhibitors invited to join in the celebrations.
As part of the GCA #Cardmitment campaign a giant 75th birthday card will be positioned at the show’s entrance that visitors can sign, and there will be the opportunity to send cards across the UK from the NEC.
The area will also feature fun facts showcasing the joy and impact of giving and receiving cards, while the Greeting Card Association Lounge will serve as a space for networking and festivities, with the GCA Debut Pavilion area providing a launchpad for members who have never exhibited before, giving them the opportunity to showcase their products to the industry.
Also championing start-up businesses, the New Business Pavilion will give buyers the opportunity to discover the latest brands, makers and creators in greetings – dedicated to first-time suppliers and small businesses, five pavilions will be situated across the show, showcasing emerging brands in the Gift, Greetings, Beauty & Wellbeing, Home, Living & Decor and Moda Fashion destinations.
Brands already signed up for Hall 3 include Ling Design, Great British Card Company, The Art File, Wrendale Designs, Ohh Deer, Museums & Galleries, Emotional Rescue, Paper Salad, Raspberry Blossom, Rosie Made A Thing, Jonny Javelin, Roger La Borde, Glick, Alljoy Designs, Emma Ball, Cardology, Marina B, Pink Pig, Wendy Jones-Blackett, Paper Rose, Brainbox Candy, and Jane Buurman Handmade, while the Cardgains Village will showcase group members such as UK Greetings, Sarunds, Words ’N’ Wishes, IC&G, Jacksons, Woodmansterne, Rainbow Designs, The Gifted Stationery Company, and Smart Toys.
The show is also launching the Licensing Lab as an exclusive, purpose-built space designed by Llewelyn-Bowen Design dedicated to fostering the growth, collaboration, and celebration of the UK’s vibrant licensing industry, presenting a dynamic platform for licensors, licensees, and retailers alike.
With 61% of Spring Fair’s 35,000 visitors expressing interest in licensed products, the Licensing Lab will serve as an industry hub, promoting knowledge sharing, business expansion, and networking.
It also recognises the UK’s independent retail sector, a major commercial force valued at £66.3billion and representing 30% of the overall market, as an essential audience for licensing professionals.
Spring Fair event director Soraya Gadelrab said: “It will serve as a dynamic and engaging platform that brings together key players from across the licensing industry.
“By celebrating achievements, facilitating connections, and promoting knowledge sharing, the Licensing Lab will not only enhance the Spring Fair experience but also drive growth and innovation within the licensing sector.”
To find out more about the show and the 75th anniversary celebrations click here, there’s details on the Greetings, Party & Celebration destination here and to register for your free ticket to attend click here.
