Retail pioneers and visionaries: Spring Fair 2024’s stage highlights…

 

Spring Fair has once again proven to be THE source of innovation and inspiration for both creators and curators. With an impressive lineup of speakers, insightful sessions and exciting product showcases, visitors were treated to an unforgettable experience that left them energised, empowered and ready for the year ahead. 

  

This year’s show boasted 3 jam-packed stages with over 70 speakers. One of the highlights of this year's content programme was the introduction of two new stages: Trend Talks and the Masterclass Studio. Both platforms aimed to give visitors the insights and business solutions to thrive in the ever-changing world of retail.
  

 

 

The Trend Talks stage in partnership with Spring Fairs official trend partners, The Future Collective, served as a hub for thought-provoking presentations by future forecasters and creators on emerging trends and industry insights. From understanding the importance of B Corp certification to exploring the latest consumer habits, attendees gained a deeper understanding of key drivers shaping the retail sector. Speakers like Koral Ibrahim, Founder of The Ready House, Helena Mansell-Stopher, CEO of Products of Change and Barry Kane, Co-Founder of Upcycle Labs, offered informed perspectives on topics ranging from circular retail to the evolving mindset of Gen Z, hybrid retail spaces and the growing value in private label products.  
 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, the Masterclass Studio in partnership with TikTok Shop provided buyers and exhibitors with hands-on learning opportunities and actionable strategies to enhance their retail businesses. Sessions on the rapid growth of social commerce, customer experience and the positive possibilities of AI in retail gave the Spring Fair audience the tools they need to thrive in today's digital age. Speakers like Alison Battisby of Avocado Social, Nicole Higgins, The Buyer and Retail Coach and Glenn White from Google shared their expertise, offering practical advice and best practices to help retailers stay ahead of the curve.  

 

The Inspiring Retail Stage served as the meeting place for fashion trends and retail perspectives from industry pioneers. Here, visitors were welcomed into a vibrant ‘Peach Fuzz’ hub of powerful keynotes, significant industry presentations from the likes of Paul Wright, Group ESG Director at PDS Ltd, Stephen Spencer, Ambience Director at Stephen Spencer + Associates and Kris Hamer, Director of Insight at the British Retail Consortium.   

 

The Moda Catwalk showcased the unique collections and innovative edits in fashion and footwear. From on-trend designs to sustainable fashion initiatives, brands like Saloos, Powder Design, Jessica Graaf and many more decorated the runaway, unveiling their latest pieces.  

  

Across the show, our stages welcomed a lineup of esteemed partners and speakers who further elevated the event experience. TV personality, Lawrence Llewellyn-Bowen, retail entrepreneur, Theo Paphitis and renowned designer, Dame Zandra Rhodes gave visitors the opportunity to gain valuable insights and advocacy from important voices within the industry.  

 

This year’s show was not only a platform for showcasing innovative products and retail insights but also a hub for fostering valuable partnerships. Notable partnerships included Licensing leaders Hasbro, who hosted Peppa’s Party around the beloved Peppa Pig brand. Additionally, the presence of TikTok Shop at Spring Fair underscored the growing importance of social platforms in the retail landscape, while the Department of Business Trade played a pivotal role in facilitating connections and growing export opportunities, highlighting the importance of global collaboration in driving retail success.  
 
 

 

 

With over a million products under one roof, Spring Fair truly serves as the ultimate launchpad for new and innovative products. The New Product Showcase and Pitch Live Gift and Fashion competitions added an extra layer of excitement, showcasing brave exhibitors presenting their latest creations. From plantable seed card books to gender-neutral children's clothing, the creativity on display was truly inspiring. Congratulations to Ducky Zebra and Merry People for being crowned the two Pitch Live winners for 2024, a testament to the importance of pushing boundaries in the retail industry. 

  

Spring Fair 2024 demonstrated why it remains a must-attend event for retailers and suppliers alike. Leaving visitors feeling energised, empowered and ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-evolving world of retail.  

  

 

Enjoy more incredible content and insights at next year’s exciting 75th anniversary event, learn more about what you can expect from Spring Fair 2025.