So how was the Harrogate Christmas & Gift show for you? Attendance figures weren’t available as we go to press, but my estimation is that numbers would have been similar to last year. Thankfully, the snow and ice had already disappeared when the show opened, although Harrogate Town Council should have done a far better job of getting rid of the snow and ice that stayed on the pavements throughout the show.
When you consider how much cash exhibitors and buyers bring to the town, then this was the least they could have done!
The new hall ‘G’ seems to have worked really well with Kaemingk’s stand particularly busy.
To celebrate the show’s 75th anniversary, the Sunday evening’s drinks and canapes function held in the Royal Hall attended by almost 400 guests was a resounding success, as our pictures on pages 14/15 will show.
Whilst talking of 75 years, our picture shows Warren Cornelius along with sons Guy and James whose company Playwrite have exhibited at every show. Originally as W.H. Cornelius and now with a 5th generation to plan the future. The cake was suitably iced and enjoyed by everyone who attended the presentation ceremony.
A popular figure at Spring Fair is Richard Keel. As we go to press we have just learnt that Richard managed to break his leg whilst skiing and could be doubtful for the show. Keel Toys have a great sales team, but he will be greatly missed.
Spring Fair also celebrate their 75th year in 2025 and opens on the 2nd February, where Event Director Soraya Gadelrab promises a celebration of their last 75 years.
Just too late to appear in January was the news that Woodlodge/Snowlodge have taken over the U.K. and Ireland distribution of Jingles. Iain’s daughter Elise will work with Woodlodge to continue the sales effort with full backing from the company. Iain and Pearl intend to enjoy a well deserved retirement, although knowing Iain, I wouldn’t bet on it. Iain’s final comment to me was “Never say never.”
Our retail interview is with The Old Railway Line – a family run business set in the Wye Valley. This is what makes so many garden Centres successful. The whole family live and breath the business, so please turn to pages 22/23 to find out.
Lesser & Pavey are a long-established importer of all categories of giftware and Christmas products, exhibiting at both Harrogate and Spring Fair. We continue their story on pages 12/13 with an interview with director Jonny Greves.
