In a few days’ time, NEC Birmingham will come alive with the return of Autumn Fair, the UK’s largest seasonal showcase for Home, Gift & Fashion. Running from 1st to 4th September 2024, this year’s event promises to be a hub of inspiration and opportunity, with over 800 suppliers presenting more than half a million products. With 30 percent of brands exhibiting exclusively at Autumn Fair, it’s the ultimate destination for retailers looking to discover the latest trends and stock their shelves ahead of the festive season.
Unmissable attractions and exclusive offers
Autumn Fair 2024 has unveiled a range of exciting attractions designed specifically for shop owners and product buyers. Visitors will have the chance to explore 10 definitive product sectors, including the latest in interior accessories, textiles, greetings, stationery, candles, beauty & wellbeing, accessories, and fashion.
Faire Partnership
In a first-of-its-kind partnership with online wholesale marketplace Faire, Autumn Fair is bridging the gap between offline and online shopping. Buyers can enjoy streamlined buying and can take advantage of exclusive benefits, including 50 percent off their first order (up to £100) with the promo code ‘AUTUMNFAIR’ when they sign up within seven days, along with free shipping on Faire and Autumn Fair exclusive products. Faire will be located at Stand 6D15.
The Buyers Lounge
The Buyers Lounge is the perfect retreat for visitors with a ‘buyer’ badge. Offering complimentary tea and coffee, this space will also host tailored experiences such as masterclasses, clinics, and guided tours, all designed to enhance buying efficiency and productivity. Visitors can also pick up a Resorts World VIP card at the Lounge desk, which offers 10 – 20 percent discounts at multiple outlets near the NEC.
Ambience Clinic: Hosted by Stephen Spencer + Associates, the Ambience Clinic will provide expert advice on nine key topics to help businesses maximise revenue from visitor experiences. Leave with actionable insights and inspiration to boost productivity and profitability.
Merchandising Masterclasses: Visual merchandising consultant Debbie Flowerday will lead live daily window dressing installations with an engaging Q&A at 10am, 12pm, and 3pm from Sunday to Tuesday. These interactive sessions are designed to equip retailers with valuable tips and tricks for window dressing and visual merchandising.
Sloe Down & Unwind Tasting Sessions: Join Mixologist Nigel Ferrier from Craft Your Own at 4pm on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday for a tasting session. Learn how to craft a delicious sloe gin in just two weeks – perfectly timed for the festive season.
Guided Tours: Daily 20-minute tours will introduce buyers to the Home and Gift destinations, highlighting key areas, benefits, and must-see products. Tours depart at 9:30am for Gift and 10:00am for Home from the Buyers Lounge.
New and noteworthy: Product Trails, Lounges and Pavilions
Autumn Fair is making product discovery easier than ever with refreshed product trails, dedicated lounges, and new business pavilions.
Product Trails: Find the products that matter most by exploring the show’s diverse product trails for British products, sustainable suppliers, new exhibitors, brands selling on Faire, and licensed products.
Gift of the Year Showcase: The Gift of the Year Awards are a respected industry accolade, recognising the best new products and inspiration across the gift industry each year. Visitors can explore the most prestigious products in gifting and discover this year’s esteemed winners at the Gift of the Year Showcase located at stand 20KJ50-K51.
Greetings Card Association Lounge: Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Thinking of You Week at the Greetings Card Association Lounge in Hall 6. Get involved by sending handwritten cards and spreading positivity throughout the show.
New Business Pavilions: Discover emerging brands in the Home, Living, Décor, Gift, Greetings & Stationery, Beauty & Wellbeing, and Moda (Fashion) sectors. The New Business Pavilions are a must-visit for those looking to uncover the latest market entrants.
Moda Fashion Café: Take a break at the Moda Fashion Café in Hall 8, the ideal spot to relax, network with industry peers, or simply recharge during the show.
Discover new and exclusive brands: Meet over 800 brands, 30 percent of which are exclusive to Autumn Fair, including Tommy Franks, Soy Wax Village, Lucy Kemp Jewellery, Lanka Kade, Find Your Glow, Casa Verde, and many more.
“We’re thrilled to present initiatives that will make our buyers’ time at the show more productive, enjoyable, and inspirational,” says Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair. “We are putting the spotlight on newness, efficiency, and support for independent retailers. Autumn Fair is the key show to meet buyers that buy at this time of year. It provides a prime opportunity for retailers to explore the most window-worthy new products, meet with industry peers, and restock before the busiest season. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this unmissable showcase.”
As the largest event for retail’s peak season, Autumn Fair is expected to draw over 12,000 purchase-ready buyers. It’s the perfect opportunity for retailers to discover the most window-worthy new products, connect with industry peers, and prepare for the festive season.
