Retail Insights

In this episode of the Retail Insights, host Felicity Harris sits down with Deryane Tadd, founder of St Alban’s The Dressing Room, an award-winning independent boutique and perhaps one of the UK’s most inspiring retail success stories. Deryane shares how her passion for retail turned into a 20-year journey defined by creativity, determination, and resilience. She opens up about how The Dressing Ro...

In this episode of the Retail Insights Podcast , host Felicity is joined by Charlotte Broadbent, UK General Manager at Faire, and Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director at Hyve Group, to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing independent retailers today. From navigating supply chain disruptions to adapting to shifting consumer demands, they explore how independents can stay competitive...

Join Jeff Banks in this insightful and inspiring episode of Retail Insight, recorded live at the Spring Fair—celebrating its 75th year as the UK’s largest trade fair. Jeff sits down with Mike Winch, the entrepreneurial force behind Candlelight, who reflects on his remarkable journey of 53 years exhibiting at the Spring Fair. From humble beginnings crafting candles in a kitchen with just £20 to bui...

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks chats with Amanda Peffer, founder of the award-winning children's clothing brand Blade & Rose. Amanda shares the inspiring story of how her frustration with bland babywear led to the creation of her vibrant and innovative brand, which celebrates crawling nappy bottoms with colorful and stretchy designs.    From humble beginnings in her L...

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Ray Qudos, Consultant at  Keplin, one of the UK’s fastest-growing direct-to-consumer brands. Ray shares Keplin's remarkable journey from a student startup to a thriving £30M business, highlighting their innovative approach to affordability, sustainability, and brand development.    Ray also discusses the pivotal role of Spring...

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Evan Lewis, founder of sustainable stationery brand VENT for Change. Evan shares his inspiring journey as an environmental entrepreneur, starting with surplus recycled pencils and evolving into a socially conscious brand that funds global education projects. Evan also highlights the importance of in-person connections at trade fair...

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Craig Wensley, the creative force behind DCUK, to explore the whimsical world of wooden ducks and the enduring appeal of Spring Fair. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Spring Fair remains the UK’s largest trade exhibition, and for Craig, it’s a must-attend event. Craig shares the fascinating journey of DCUK, from its humble beginni...

In this episode of Retail Insight , Sarah Ward, CEO of the Giftware Association, joins us to share her insider’s perspective on the dynamic world of giftware. Sarah dives into her unique role supporting businesses of all sizes, highlighting the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and advocacy in navigating today’s retail challenges.   From tackling industry-wide issues like late payments an...

In this episode of Retail Insight , host Jeff Banks sits down with Adriana Lovesy from the Greeting Card Association to explore the unique and enduring appeal of handwritten greeting cards in a digital world. Adriana shares her memories of Spring Fair and explains how this iconic event has supported greeting card businesses for decades, from small startups to established publishers. This episode i...

In celebration of Spring Fair's 75th anniversary, Jeff Banks talks with retail expert Stephen Spencer about the future of retail. Discover how to create value-driven experiences, blend online and in-person shopping, and embrace sustainability to engage customers and elevate brands.  Listen in to hear how Stephen’s team reimagines retail spaces, builds authentic connections through storytellin...

In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks chats with Daniel Kullman of EK Retail, a cooperative buying group representing over 4,000 retailers across Europe.  Daniel explains how EK Retail empowers independent retailers by offering innovative products, centralised buying power and a wide range of services. Learn how the cooperative bridges bricks-and-mortar and e-commerce, navigates post-Brexi...

In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks speaks with Aylish, Trade Marketing Manager at Enesco, about the art of bringing globally recognized licensed products like Disney and Warner Brothers into the UK’s gift market. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Aylish shares insights into managing major licenses, navigating digital and traditional marketing, and the strategic role of tra...

In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks interviews Samantha, founder of Nest, an award-winning gift and homeware business. Starting as a contemporary craft gallery, Samantha shares her journey from creating pottery to expanding Nest into three thriving shops and an online presence. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Samantha discusses how the event has been instrumental to her s...

In this episode of Retail Insight , Jeff Banks interviews Tim Hollis from Talking Tables, a brand known for creating products that inspire social connection. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Tim shares insights on Talking Tables’ journey, from its beginnings at a kitchen table to becoming a go-to for partyware and home décor. They dive into the importance of trade shows, Talking Tab...

In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks sits down with Kay Hutchinson, Head of Product Marketing at Coopers of Stortford, to discuss the evolution of a brand that began as a market stall 30 years ago and now offers over 10,000 products online. Recorded at the Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, they explore the critical role Spring Fair plays in helping Coopers source unique, functional items fo...

In this episode of Retail Insight for the Spring Fair , host Jeff Banks sits down with Maggie Thornton , owner of Alligator Pear , a unique gift shop affectionately dubbed the "Village Department Store." Maggie shares the story behind her shop’s quirky name, her extensive background in retail, and how her passion for the industry has fueled her success. Maggie’s journey began with a care...

In this episode of Retail Insight , host Jeff Banks talks to Nick Ronald, founder of the home and garden brand Casa Verde, about his inspiring journey in the retail industry. Nick shares how he launched his business just before the pandemic and how exhibiting at Spring Fair played a crucial role in its success. Recorded during the 75th anniversary of Spring Fair, the UK’s largest and most influent...