Described as “a game-changing proposition for the future of buying and sourcing in retail,” Autumn Fair’s new Curated Meeting programme will match leading national and independent retailers with quality suppliers offering homewares and gifts.
Over 100 retailers have already applied to participate, including vetted premium buyers from John Lewis, Next, Oliver Bonas, Robert Dyas, Coopers of Stortford, Dinghams, Booths Supermarkets, Findon Garden Centre, Lark, Lowden Garden Centre, Mooch, Museum of Oxford, Sally Bee Lifestyle, Statement Home & Gifts and The Velvet Store. There is just over a month for other retailers and suppliers to apply prior to the run up to Autumn Fair (September 5-8, NEC Birmingham).
“Curated Meetings provides a worthwhile use of time for both parties, with 15-minute meetings taking place in a special area at Autumn Fair, where suppliers will have samples to show,” explains Maleha Khan, product manager of Autumn Fair Curated Meetings. “There is capacity for 500 meetings across Monday and Tuesday; every single meeting will be double opt-in, requested by both buyer and vendor, ensuring maximum relevance and engagement.”
Using the Curated Meetings online platform, buyers can filter for products that suit their product type, desired aesthetics, and price range. Homewares suppliers already participating include Alex Clark Art, Allied Imports, D & J Glassware, Haus, Lizzie Martell Designs, Penguin Ink, Portfolio Home, Richard Lang & Son, The Sugar Shed, Tilnar Art, Wraptious, Morgan Wright, Studio Wald, Also the Bison and Cherith Harrison.
Curated Meetings’ UK debut follows the phenomenal success of the sourcing programme in the USA over the past five years. The trial at Autumn Fair focuses primarily on gifts, including homewares, and the full-scale programme will launch across multiple sectors (including Kitchen & Dining) at Spring Fair 2022.
“Buyers have a limited amount of time to source new brands and product collections and Curated Meetings enables them to line up a series of time efficient and hassle-free appointments to discover and see brands quickly and easily when they are onsite,” reflects Maleha. She emphasizes: “Spaces are limited and in-demand, so act fast to apply for yours.”
Buyers and vendors must meet criteria and be approved to take part in Curated Meetings. Applications can be submitted at visit www.autumnfair.com/curated-meetings.
Top: Autumn Fair’s new Curated Meeting programme will bring together premium retail buyers and suppliers.
