Thousands of retail buyers, and owners of independent stores from across the UK flocked to Spring Fair at the NEC Birmingham today as it opened its doors for the first time in two years.

As we enter 2022, the sales will pose a tricky question for retailers. Will customers be queueing out the doors as they did in pre-pandemic times, or will they turn their attention to online sales?

The post-pandemic recovery is perhaps one of the biggest challenges for British retailers. How can independent retailers thrive post-COVID?

From subscription retail to personalised marketing: how can we forge deeper customer relationships?

Spring Fair, the UK's most diverse, vibrant, and exciting wholesale marketplace for home, gift, and fashion taking place from 6th – 9th February 2022 in Halls 1-8 NEC Birmingham, has extended the deadline for its sought-after Little Black Book packed full of information and the 1000's of exhibitors set to showcase new products. Register by end of the day on Tuesday 11th January to be in with a chance to receive one of the limited printed copies of this essential show guide, delivered straight to your door.

While digital may continue to be a looming threat over high street businesses, it will never replace the in-store experience. Certainly, retailers can capitalise on hybrid opportunities, such as augmented reality or click-and-collect. But we can always do more to make our customers feel good.

Spring Fair, the UK's most diverse, vibrant, and exciting wholesale marketplace for home, gift, sourcing and Moda as the fourth fashion destination incorporating footwear and the Jewellery & Watch Edit, confirms it will take place from 6th – 9th February 2022 in Halls 1-8 at NEC Birmingham, as planned. Registration is live and visitors can visit www.springfair.com and www.moda-uk.co.uk for the latest news, information on over 1000 exhibitors, inspiring content, and up to date Safe & Secure guidelines.

Spring Fair, the UK's most diverse, vibrant, and exciting wholesale marketplace for home, gift, fashion, and sourcing, was presented with the prestigious Trade Show of the Century Award at The AEO (Association of Event Organisers) Centenary Party & Awards on the 10th December.