The Product-Cast: Recent Episodes
Gift of the Year
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between. Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards! The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.https://marketing-101.co.uk/ The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.https://www.giftoftheyear.co.uk/ The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.https://www.ga-uk.org/
This episode we’re joined by James Arnold, CEO of Birchstone Markets. We’ve talked about finances before on this podcast, but this is our first foray into Foreign Exchange, one of three key services delivered by Birchstone. Get behind the scenes with James as we learn about how the company came to be formed in 2021, and the fantastic culture and ethos they’ve created in the business, plus how they’ve embraced technology to set themselves apart from the competition.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- James Arnold
- Birchstone Markets
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
This episode we hear from Oli Hills, founder of Nonsensical, an agency focussing on TikTok content creation and consultancy. TikTok is one of those platforms that so many people enjoy, and yet so many small businesses, particularly in gift, have yet to take advantage of. With the addition of TikTok shop now is the perfect time to hear from Oli, a true expert, and understand how to get started and make an impact with your products. Insightful and entertaining, as you’d expect!
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Oli Hills
- Nonsensical
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Nonsensical
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
Today we’re joined by the inspirational Morena Fiore, founder of Kodes - designer, retailer and wholesaler of an amazing range of unique, handcrafted jewelry, including Gift of the Year finalist product, an aromatherapy essential oils diffuser bracelet. We learn all about the origins of Kodes and Morena’s hands-on, risk free approach to launching, marketing and growing her business. You’ll also enjoy a bit of a marketing tangent, as Morena and I tap into our marketing knowledge to give some great tips and advice for self-marketing your business.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Morena Fiore
- Kodes
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Kodes
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
In this episode we learn about a different aspect of financial services - financial planning and wealth advice. Andrew Snowball, soon-to-be Director of Greycoat Financial Services talks us through how they help business owner plan for the future, unlocking hopes and dreams for holidays, property, and legacy for their families. With a focus on lifestyle and wellbeing, this is a fantastic insight into how acting now can help you start your journey towards the kind of lifestyle you’ve always hoped for, rather than waiting for retirement.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Andrew Snowball
- Greycoat Financial
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
Today we’re joined by the amazing Aylish Ellwood, Trade Marketing Manager at Enesco. A true giant in our industry, the UK arm of Enesco are celebrating their 30th year in business in 2024! In this episode Aylish takes us through the history of Enesco, (and she was there for almost all of it!), we talk about marketing, trade shows, and of course we hear all about the fabulous Enesco gifts that made it through to the finals of the Gift of the Year awards!
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Aylish Ellwood
- Enesco
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Enesco
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
In this episode we speak to Steve Harris, Director at Central Business Finance who tells us all about the history of the company and the opportunities available to businesses to raise finance to either proactively support growth or reactively help with cash flow and debts. A lot of small business owner don’t realise the amount of support out the options available to them to expedite growth, and Steve is the perfect person to talk to if you’d like to learn more.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Steve Harris
- Central Finance
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
Today on the Gift-Cast we learn about a brand new area of the gift industry not yet covered in our previous 63 episodes - books as gifts! We welcome Lewis Dawson from the family-run business Bookspeed, one of the few UK companies specialising in the unique realm of selecting and wholesaling books specifically to the gift industry. We learn Bookspeed’s fascinating origin story, understand more about exactly how to go about selecting books that will sell well as gifts, as well as some insight into current trends in the industry.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Lewis Dawson
- Bookspeed
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Bookspeed
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
This episode we have the pleasure of catching up with Lizzi Benger, Head of Marketing at Aspin - a company who provide incredible tools to help product design/supply companies get truly organised - tools like a Product Information Management system (PIM) and a Digital Asset Management system (DAM) to ensure that everyone has a ‘single place of truth’ when it comes to the information and assets associated with their products. They also have a Customer Relationship Management tool (CRM) which seamlessly integrates with the PIM, the DAM and Pixsell - their order-taking system, perfect for the sales side of the business, whether taking orders over the phone, on the road or at trade shows.
Join us to learn about the history and future of Aspin, their relationship with the Giftware Association and Gift Of The Year, and the incredible tools that they’ve developed over the last few decades.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Lizzi Benger
- Aspin & Pixsell
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Aspin
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
In this episode we sit down with Julie Uherek, Vice President, Consumer Goods Fairs, Messe Frankfurt to explore the multifaceted world of exhibitions and trade events. We learn about the latest trends in the industry, the impact of digital technology, and effective marketing strategies to attract high attendance. Julie also highlights how trade shows are pivotal in networking and community building among industry professionals. Moreover, we explore the integration of interactive elements and technologies to boost attendee engagement and ensure a memorable experience. Listen in as we gain unique insights from Julia about what excites them in this evolving field and the future of trade shows.
Welcome to the Gift-Cast, previously know as the Product-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Gift-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Julia Uherek
- Ambiente & Christmas World
- Host;
- The Gift-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Ambiente
- Christmas World
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
In today’s episode we have the absolute pleasure of meeting Miranda Khadr, owner of Provide Finance. In a change to the usual guests, we’re introducing you to a supplier member of the Giftware Association - that being someone who provides services to our members, rather than being a product supplier, a retailer or an event manager within the gift trade. In this episode learn all about the amazing new finance platform that Miranda and her team have built, plus the options available to you for consolidating debt, garnering investment for growth, and much much more!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Miranda Khadr
- Provide Finance
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Provide Finance
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Alex Ryan
- Marketing 101
In this episode of the Product-Cast we meet the inspirational Rachel Wilkins who, after too many years in the corporate world of marketing, took the leap to take her side hustle and make it her own business. 2 years of saving up and Rachel was able to step out of her Paye role and become her own bsos, and the founder of Dinky Artist - taking children’s art and turning it into incredible giftware.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Rachel Wilkins (Linkedin)
- Dinky Artist (website)
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Dinky Artist
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Here we are with the latest instalment of the beautiful Prod-Cast, and this time we're joined by Stacey McNeill of Fox Under The Moon - a progressive brand focussed on mental health and wellbeing, and ALSO the winner of the People's Choice Gift Of The Year award! We learn about Stacey's music side-hustle (find her on Spotify), her life on the road, and, of course, about her fantastic products and steadfast social media following.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Stacey McNeill (Linkedin)
- Fox Under The Moon (website)
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Fox Under The Moon
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Join us as we learn about one of the most progressive and exciting trade shows in the gift industry - the Brand Licensing shows! In this episode we speak to Ella Haynes who is Event Director at Brand Licensing Europe which is part of Informer Markets, a giant of a company who put on hundreds of events each year!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail, supply, events and beyond, learning about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their relationship with the Giftware Association and/or the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Brand Licensing Europe
- Informer Markets
- Ella Haynes
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
We have a fascinating episode for you today as we learn all about the incredibly important work of the Genesis Initiative - a group made up of the leaders of 117 different trade associations across a huge variety of industries and trades who have a direct influence on the Government.
We speak to two Directors of the Genesis Initiative, Adam Tyler who is Head of the Financial Intermediary and Broker Association and our very own CEO of the Giftware Association, Sarah Ward. We learn about the history of the Genesis Initiative, how it works, the influence it has over government decision making, as well as a few historical successes and their current key focusses.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Adam Tyler
- Genesis Initiative
- Sarah Ward
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This week we're joined by Stephen Illingworth, Commercial Director of Widdop & Co. Join us as we learn about this incredible 140 year old company and it's family-run heritage. We learn about its origins in fine clocks and jewellery, its war efforts in WW2 through to blazing a trail in the race to export from China back in the 1970's.
In this fascinating episode Stephen bares all - the trails and tribulations of working with family and how that effects his life outside of work and, fascinatingly, Widdop & Co's recent drive to not just bring production into the UK, but a unique form of production that harnesses the values and versatility of Print On Demand for wholesale.
Listen on and ENJOY!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Stephen Illingworth
- Widdop & Co
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Widdop & Co
This week we're joined by Zoë Bonser, Portfolio Director, Retail Division at Clarion Events, meaning she's responsible for the delivery for 30+ retail and home exhibitions around the world each year including the hugely popular Top Drawer, London and Home & Gift, Harrogate.
Join us as we learn all about Zoë's journey into the world of event management, hear about Clarion's incredible and huge operation (offices in 13 countries!) with a focus on the future of Top Drawer and Home & Gift.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Zoë Bonser
- Clarion Events
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Clarion Events
We're back at Spring Fair and this time running all over the various halls to catch up with those lucky companies and members who were shortlisted for the Gift of the Year awards!
Featuring;
- Chris Workman (Giftware Association)
- Crumble & Core
- Ian Downes (Gift of the Year judge)
- Letterbox Love
- Nicole Elders
- Rainbow Designs
- Widdop
- Wild Olive
- Wilsow (2022 3x times winners!)
Check out parts 1 & 2 of this special three-part episode for loads more interviews from the buzzing hub of the giftware scene, Spring Fair!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Small Business Collaborative
- Spring Fair
We're back at Spring Fair and this time running all over the various halls to catch up with those lucky companies and members who were shortlisted for the Gift of the Year awards!
Featuring;
- Big Potato Games
- Cotton & Grey
- Home County Company
- Made Happy
- Metal Motif
- Professor Puzzle
Check out parts 2 & 3 of this special three-part episode for loads more interviews from the buzzing hub of the giftware scene, Spring Fair!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Small Business Collaborative
- Spring Fair
We're back at Spring Fair and this time running all over the various halls to catch up with those lucky companies and members who were shortlisted for the Gift of the Year awards!
Featuring;
- Fizz Creations
- Fox Under The Moon
- Gin Etc.
- Global Journey
- Mclaggan Mugs
- Nemesis Now
Check out parts 1 & 3 of this special three-part episode for loads more interviews from the buzzing hub of the giftware scene, Spring Fair!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each episode you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Small Business Collaborative
- Spring Fair
With Spring Fair only just appearing in our rearview mirrors we grab two wonderful prod-cast veterans to tell us all about the return of this industry favourite trade show as well as some exciting changes to the Gift of the Year awards.
Therese Oertenblad is the owner of Small Business Collaborative and Louise Welsby is the owner of Buy From creative agency AND they are both regular judges in the Gift of the Year awards. This year, for the very first time, the final round of judging took place live at the Spring Fair (it's usually behind closed doors at the Giftware Association HQ).
Join us as we learn all about this fantastic show and how the judges and entrants felt about the new, revitalised Gift of the Year awards.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Therese Oertenblad
- Small Business Collaborative
- Louise Welsby
- Buy From
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Small Business Collaborative
- Buy From
This week we're joined by Michael Apter, owner of one of Scotlands' best-known card and gift stores, Paper Tiger. Join us as we learn about the 40-year-old history of Paper Tiger, how they discover and meet new suppliers, and how they plan to celebrate 2022, the Chinese year of the Tiger with a huge fundraising campaign.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Michael Apter
- Paper Tiger
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Paper Tiger
This week we are joined by a product developer in a very unique position! Linda Goodchild is right on the cusp of placing her first ever order of her first ever product - The Healthcare Companion. Join us as we learn all about the inspiration behind the product, Linda's 4 year journey to bring it to market, and some sound advice for anyone who's thinking about developing their first ever product.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Linda Goodchild
- Healthcare Companion
- email - linda@healthcarecompanion.co.uk
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this episode we're joined by an iconic business within the gift industry, the wonderful Kikkerland and the Country Manager for the UK, Andy McLellan. Join us as Andy tells us how he, a Scot, ended up living in Norway working for Kikkerland. He pulls back the curtain on what it's like working for Kikkerland, how C19 has affected their business, and all about their amazing altruistic activities including a dollar-match campaign raising funds for Doctors Without Borders.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Andy McLellan
- Kikkerland
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Kikkerland
This episode is going to be super-useful for the majority of our listeners as our guest, Stuart Lorimer, an independent consultant specialising in Online Marketplaces, helps us understand about both B2C and B2B marketplaces, how to use them, how they can benefit us, and what to expect when signing up - commission, subscriptions fees and much much more. If you're struggling to get on board with online marketplaces or would like to refine your presence, then this is the episode for you!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Stuart Lorimer
- Email - stuart.lorimer@lidproject.com
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we're joined by Alan Cheesley, founder of the marketing company Flow Online, a man with a very unique perspective on sales and marketing. Through his own experience and research Alan has honed in on the qualities that lay within a successful sales person and used this knowledge to create a business focused on delivering results through online marketing. Grab a pen and paper because we have a lot of very useful tips within!
Here's the link to the eBook that Alan has kindly offered to you, our listeners, free of charge. Once downloaded, you'll also see the link to book your complimentary strategy call; http://flow-online.co.uk/more-leads-ga/
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Flow Online
- Alan Cheesley
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
- Flow Online
In this episode we're joined by David Glenwright, Head of Training at JC Social Media. As a trainer, David is about as up-to-date as you can get across a variety of social media platforms, so we decided to try and extract as much of his Linkedin knowledge as we can, specifically for business-to-business use, and even more specifically, within the gift, retail and FMCG industry.
David covers a variety of topics, starting with the evolution and growth of Linkedin (one of the longest surviving social media platforms), how to match your behaviours and content to your audience and potential customers and, finally, how to make the most effective direct approach to potential buyers - this advice is gold dust!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- JC Social Media
- David Glenwright
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In our second live recording from the wonderful London Stationery Show we were joined on the Retail Matters stage by someone who was introduced to us as the VOICE of independent stationers - owner of 'Stationery Supplies' in Marple and Wilmslow, Sarah Laker. In this episode we hear all about why Sarah feels so passionately about bricks and mortar, independent stationery shops and the work she's been doing to support those retailers and bring awareness to their needs.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Stationery Supplies Wilmslow
- Sarah Laker
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Stationery Supplies Wilmslow
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This week on the Product-Cast we are joined by Evan Lewis, a social and environmental entrepreneur and owner of VENT for Change, a stationery supplier with ethical design and social responsibility at it's core.
Recorded live on the 'Retail Matters' stage at London Stationery Show, we learn all about how Evan found himself so invested in ethical design over a decade prior to it's current global focus, as well as hearing about the various ways in which Evan has strived to ensure that VENT for Change delivers on it's environmental and social goals.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- VENT for Change
- Evan Lewis
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Vent for Change
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
On the Prod-Cast this week, we have our very first returning guest! Courtney Wood the CEO of Bubblegum Stuff - a wonderful gift and game company based in London is making a return to talk to us about how they were able to use crowdfunding, more specifically the website Kickstarter to make the launch of their board game Plant Based Riot a huge success. If you're considering running your own crowdfunding campaign then grab a notepad - plenty of tips and trick within, plus a few hazards to avoid!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Bubblegum Stuff
- Courtney Wood
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Bubblegum Stuff
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This VERY exciting episode was recorded live on stage at the Inspiring Retail corner of the Autumn Fair. Our host, Alex Ryan was joined by Hyve's own Head of Content Suzanne Ellingham, and from The Giftware Association, MD Sarah Ward and Head of Marketing Chris Workman.
We review day 1 of the show, discuss our highlights and 'must see stands', learn all about the changes that Hyve have made since AF2019, and talk about the key themes that keep cropping up in our conversations from the aisles. Enjoy this great live and informal chat - we certainly did!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Suzanne Ellingham
- Sarah Ward
- Chris Workman
- Autumn Fair
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Autumn Fair
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This week on the Product-Cast we're joined by the wonderful Helena Mansell-Stopher, founder and CEO of Products of Change, an organisation dedicated to building sustainable change in the licensing and consumer products industry through a collaborative approach from it's members who operate at every level of our trade. Join us for this fascinating insight and unique way of looking at the way we develop and manufacture products.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Products of Change
- Helena Mansell-Stopher
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Products of Change
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Welcome to episode 41 of The Product-Cast where we are joined by the wonderful Craig De Souza - regular panellist of The Gift Stop and founder of The Creative Industry Association - an organisation who supports the UK's thriving craft industry. Today we'll learn all about Craig's passion for this wonderful industry and the ways in which his organisation works to help businesses within it thrive, through Covid and beyond.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Creative Industry Association
- Craig De Souza (Linkedin)
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Creative Industry Association
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this, episode 40 of The Product-Cast we talk to a true legend of the industry - someone that has been championing the craft sector for over 30 years - Margeret Bunn. Join us as we learn all about Margeret's fascinating journey into the world of crafting before taking over The British Craft Fair, one of the highlights of the exhibition calendar.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- British Craft Trade Fair
- Margeret Bunn
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- British Craft Trade Fair
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we’re joined by the wonderful Faye Whitley, inventor and founder of Beevive and all round bee expert and activist! We first came across Faye and her product through the Gift of the Year awards where Faye was a finalist for multiple categories and made her mark by wearing a different outfit to each of the ceremonies! Beehive is a keyring that contains a lifesaving serum for tired bees. Learn all about it here on The Product-Cast!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Beevive
- Faye Whitley
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Beevive
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this episode we welcome Julie and Karin from Hyve Group, the company behind some of the world's biggest events and trade shows, including landmarks of the gift industry, Spring & Autumn Fair. Today however, we only lightly touch on those events as we were keen to focus on their brand new wholesale market place that launched in May. It's been a roaring success so far, and no surprise - Hyve hold great trust within the industry and are perfectly positioned to match buyers to suppliers.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Hyve Group
- Autumn Fair
- Julie Driscoll
- Karin Hausmann
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Hyve Group
- Autumn Fair
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we welcome Stephen Spencer onto the Prod-Cast for a wonderful talk and some brilliant tips all about customer experience. Also a regular at The Gift Stop, Stephen has great insight into customer behaviours and how to treat them both online and in physical stores. We also learn all about Stephen's fascinating career prior to setting up his current business, including the launch of the first ever gift shop at Buckingham Palace!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Stephen Spencer + Associates website
- Stephen Spencer Linkedin
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- The Gift Stop
- Instagram;
- Stephen Spencer + Associates
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Recorded back in March 2020, today we welcome the wonderful Heather Watherstone, former MD of Lagoon Group and founder of Gift of the Year winner Whiz Kid Games. Hear about her journey through freelancing to joining Lagoon Group, growing that business over 2 decades before making the move to go it alone with Whiz Kid Games and their educational, environmentally friendly product offering.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Whiz Kid Games
- Heather Watherstone
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Whiz Kid Games
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this episode we're joined by Catherine Edly, founder of the Resilient Retail Club. We learn all about the path Catherine took to end up launching her business (including some time spend living in the USA) and, of course, all about the RRC - a group dedicated to the growth of product businesses, from start-ups to SMEs. We also discuss the significant change in buyer behaviours throughout the C19 pandemic. Enjoy!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Resilient Retail Club
- Catherine Erdly
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Resilient Retail Club
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we're joined by the wonderful Louise Welsby, MD and Chief Motivator of creative agency Buy-From. We hear about Louise's fascinating career before Buy-From, the life-changing events that turned Louise in a new direction, and the way in which she has gone about setting up a business in which she is incredibly proud to work.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Buy-From
- Gareth Robertson
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Buy-From
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we get creative with Design Pit and it's super-cool founder Gareth Robertson. With a unique perspective on the industry AND design, we learn about how Gareth ended up setting up Design Pit, the wonders of packaging design, the importance of keeping a varied clientele, the key to happiness, and I thoroughly enjoy hearing about his discomfort with the job title Creative Director that he chose for his Linkedin profile - "Creative Directors don't drive pick-up trucks..." Enjoy!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Design Pit
- Gareth Robertson
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Design Pit
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this episode we're joined by the truly wonderful Therese Oertenblad, owner of the Small Business Collaborative and super active member of our wonderful community. Therese originally worked on the retail side with businesses like NPW, Sweet William and Paperstyle Books before deciding to go it alone as a business consultant, coach and mentor. As a true champion of small businesses Therese has a fascinating take on various parts of our industry, including, of course, the current hot topic - trade shows!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Small Business Collaborative
- Therese Oertenblad
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Small Business Collaborative
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we meet a gentlemen on a very exciting journey - Greg Fraser, founder of The Bottled Baking Co. Whilst the business was first set up about 5 years ago, it's seen an incredible amount of growth in the last year, to the point at with Greg is now having to revisit the balance between his full-time day job and his baking business. We'll hear all about the struggles of work-life/work-life balance and Greg's plans for the future!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- The Bottled Baking Co
- Greg Fraser
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- The Bottled Baking Co
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
The Giving and Living trade show is a true staple of the gift industry's calendar and focal point for coastal and tourism products. In this episode we meet MD Mike Anderson to behind-the-scenes and learn all about the small team that deliver such an impactful event. We get the low-down on the upcoming online event (10-12th May), get a full overview of the usual, real world event (for those of you that haven't previously attended) and we also learn a bit about Mike's non-work life, including his small-holding of pigs!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Giving & Living
- Mike Anderson
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Giving & Living
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Finally, we manage to grab an hour of the wonderful Jeremy Corner's time! Not only is he MD of Blue Eyed Sun (winner of 5, yes FIVE, Gift of the Year awards in 2021), but he also an Export Champion for the Department of International Trade, a member (and ex-chairman) of the Giftware Association's National Committee, and recipient of the Queens Award for International Trade which means he's actually met Her Maj!
Join me on this extra special, extra long episode of the Product-Cast as we get to learn all about Jeremy's business, experience in the world of cards and gift, and his fascinating outlook on our industry.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Blue Eyed Sun
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Blue Eyed Sun
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
It's with HUGE relief that we begin to see the confirmation of various trade shows and exhibitions throughout the rest of 2021 and London Stationery Show was one of the very first to confirm their dates (5th-6th October '21). The show (the largest dedicated stationery show in the UK) is overseen by the Event Director, Alex Butler, who joins us on the show today.
We learn about what Alex and her team delivered in place of the show in 2020 and what they have in store for us at the 2020 show. We, of course, also learn a bit more about Alex and the company that owns London Stationery Show - Ocean Media Group.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Alex Butler
- London Stationery Show
- Ocean Media Group
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- London Stationery Show
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Winner of the coveted 'under £15' Gift of the Year award 2021, Craft & Crumb join us today on the Product-Cast! Louise Nicholson, proud co-founder, tells us all about her thrilling journey, starting with setting up shop with her business parter Kate back in 2016! With steady growth since and some fortuitous product development, Craft & Crumb were ready to pivot when the C19 pandemic struck, switching focus from their roaring party bag trade to their home baking offering!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Craft & Crumb website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Craft & Crumb
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we have the pleasure of learning about a business that functions quite differently from most in our industry. Gary Lancet, Managing Director of Thinking Gifts, joins us on the Prod-Cast direct from Thailand, and while this is not his usual place of business, he does run a global, online business with no one central office or hub. Instead, Gary recruits globally - the right person is the right person, regardless of location.
Thinking Gifts also won this year's Gift of the Year award for the much fought over Stationery category, which Gary explains has already introduced him to new retailers and distributors!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Thinking Gifts website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Warning - some adult language in this episode! Disclaimer - we've 'beeped' the most naughty words, but this may not be the episode for young ones!
If you're anything like me, the above sentence has probably piqued your interest, and rightfully so! Our guest this week, in their own words, is 'smutty soap' designer and manufacturer Go La La!
Having previously focussed on their two card businesses (one rude cards, one not), husband and wife team Laura and John decided that 2020 was the year to expand into a new product category - hand washing was all the rage and everyone needed a little lift, so their smutty soaps range was born!
Just a few months later they're winning first the Novelty Gift of the Year award and then the Judges Choices award - the overall winner of the competition! Join us to hear all about their thrilling journey.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Go La La! website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Go La La!
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Founded in 2018 and having seen incredible growth and success since, we talk to the inspirational Christina Brand, founder of The Candle Brand and recent winner of several Gift of the Year awards; Home Fragrance, Bath Beauty & Spa and one of our 'new for 2020' awards, My Gift of All Time celebrating those flagship, hero products that all suppliers have. Learn about The Candle Brands humble beginnings and exciting growth, along with how Christina and her team are changing the candle game when it comes to responsible and ethical ingredients and packaging.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- The Candle Brand website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- The Candle Brand
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
It's the B word - BREXIT! Now that everyone is slowly starting to understand the implications of the governments EU trade deal, we thought it the right time to bring a couple experts onto the Product-Cast to shed some light on some of the most common questions that they are asked and the kind of situations that have arisen in the recent months. Meet Taran Sahota and Laura Banner from the BJGI (British Jewellery & Giftware International) - experts in all things import and export whose goal is to better enable international trade for UK suppliers & retailers.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- BJGI website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This week we're joined by our very first Gift of the Year 2021 winner - the lovely Julia Gash. Julia is a serial entrepreneur who talks us through the fascinating journey she took to arrive in the position she's in today - largely creating artwork within her incredibly iconic hand drawn maps collection, making her a unique guest - an artist, business owner, product developer and sales-person all rolled into one - showing exactly how a one-woman-band can have a global impact on the gift industry.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Julia Gash website
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Julia Gash
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
On this, our 20th episode, we learn all about the inner workings of one of the largest businesses in our trade - Paladone Products Ltd who have offices in the UK, HK, LA, France and Australia and currently employ anywhere between 120-170 staff depending on seasonality. We meet Burton Munday who has been with Paladone since 2004 and currently heads up their speciality sales department (small to medium sized retailers) as well as working with some of Paladone's biggest UK customers in his role as Senior National Account Manager.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Burton Munday (linkedin)
- Paladone (website)
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Paladone
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
FINALLY - on this, our 19th episode, we finally get to talking all things Gift of the Year - the history, how it's changed over the years and, more recently during the Covid era, exactly how the judging works, the trials and tribulations behind the scenes, and, of course why it's such a wonderful undertaking for the Giftware Association. Sit back, relax, and let the dulcet tones of the GA's very own Chris Workman flow through your ears.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Christopher Workman | LinkedIn
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we welcome Sara Allbright, Buyer of Candles & Gifts at John Lewis and now, more recently, Waitrose, as the stores extend and redefine their gift offering. Sara tells us everything we need to know about how to get in front of buyers, from the obvious trade shows and buyer meet-ups to the less obvious social media hash-tagging and their relationship with the Great British Exchange. If you're looking for insight into how to reach key buyers like Sara, then this episode is for YOU!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- John Lewis
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- John Lewis
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
On today's episode we meet the wonderful Henri Davis, veteran of our industry having worked for many decades in the likes of WH Smith, Next, Habitat and The National Trust before choosing to go it alone as an independent retail advisor. In her latest foray into the industry, Henri is now the owner of Coverack Village Stores - a café and shop that sells groceries, essentials and gifts on a tiny peninsular on Cornwall's beautiful north coast.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Henri Davis
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Coverack Village Stores
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Happy New Year! Starting 2021 with a bang we meet joint MD of Apples to Pears, Mark Wash - a gardener turned gift business owner! Learn all about the path Mark took to end up launching the business with Alan Titchmarsh and the evolution of the business to the playful gift company that we know today. Of course, we also hear about Apples to Pears previous Gift of the Year successes, and they're 2021 entries.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Apples to Pears
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Apples to Pears
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
A look to the future in this, our 16th episode of the Product-Cast as we are joined by one of the most respected voices within the industry, Michael Weedon. As well as running his own consultancy, Exp2, Michael serves as the Head of the High Street Advisory Board (SaveTheHighstreet.org) and Chair of the FSB Retail and High Streets policy unit. He previously ran BIRA for 29 years (the British Independent Retailers Association).
In this special extended episode we receive Michael's 'view from above' about the way in which the retail industry has adapted to the C19 pandemic including some success stories and some data that might just surprise you, and also Michael's prediction for the future of our high streets which Michael coins 'High Street 3.0'.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Exp2
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today's episode introduces you to the fantastic Retaissaince and it's entrepreneurial Founder and CEO Cathy Osborne. Retaissance is a gifting and interiors platform that works in a few different ways depending on your requirements - as an online B2B marketplace, a sales agency and, most recently, an online trade show.
We talk about how the business came about and the variety of ways in which it has been able to help businesses grow over the last few years, how it's dealt with C19, and its involvement in the Gift of the Year competition, which includes providing a mammoth prize valued at £12k!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Retaissance
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Retaissance
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Today we're joined by Founder and Director of Press Loft, Nicola Snell. Press Loft is the largest online PR tool specialising in the Interior & Gift sector with teams set up around the globe. In this episode we learn about the origins of the business and the services it provides, we talk about Press Loft's involvement with the GA and it's fantastic Gift of the Year prize of 1 year's free membership, plus we get some amazing tips on writing press releases, drawing on Nicola's decades of expertise.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Press Loft
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Press Loft
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Don't forget - Gift of the Year entry deadline is the 11th December!
In this, the final week of entries for the 2021 Gift of the Year competition, we talk to the overall winner of the 2020 competition, the amazing Amanda Wooldridge, founder of Squelch Wellies. Her fascinating story details how she fell into the world of gift and product design, literally Googling her way into business before taking the industry by storm just 1 year later.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Squelch Wellies
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Squelch Wellies
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
The final part of our special 4-part series of the Prod-Cast where we welcome Sarah Ward to the Mic. Before becoming MD of the British Allied Trade Federation Sarah was the CEO of the Giftware association and in this part of the series we talk on of the GA's flagship operations - the Gift of the Year competition, it's entrants and the judges, and even a little bit about the Product-Cast! (part 4 of 4)
Part 1 - the history of the GA
Part 2 - The GA's fantastic response to the C19 pandemic
Part 3 - how do members benefit from their GA membership
Part 4 - the Gift of the Year competition!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Sarah Ward, Linkedin
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This is part 3 of a special 4-part series of the Prod-Cast where we welcome Sarah Ward to the Mic. Before becoming MD of the British Allied Trade Federation Sarah was the CEO of the Giftware association and in this part of the series we talk all about the fantastic benefits that joining the GA can bring to it's members - which turns out to be support on pretty much everything a supplier or retailer may need! (part 3 of 4)
Part 1 - the history of the GA
Part 2 - The GA's fantastic response to the C19 pandemic
Part 3 - how do members benefit from their GA membership
Part 4 - the Gift of the Year competition!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Sarah Ward, Linkedin
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
This is part 2 of a special 4-part series of the Prod-Cast where we welcome Sarah Ward to the microphone. Before becoming MD of the British Allied Trade Federation Sarah was the CEO of the Giftware association and in this part of the series we talk all about the GA's amazing response to the C19 pandemic (part 2 of 4).
Part 1 - the history of the GA
Part 2 - The GA's fantastic response to the C19 pandemic
Part 3 - how do members benefit from their GA membership
Part 4 - the Gift of the Year competition!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Sarah Ward, Linkedin
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this special 4-part series of the Prod-Cast we welcome Sarah Ward to the microphone. Before becoming MD of the British Allied Trade Federation Sarah was the CEO of the Giftware association and is probably the best placed person to fill us in on the organisations rich and fascinating history (part 1 of 4).
Part 1 - the history of the GA
Part 2 - The GA's fantastic response to the C19 pandemic
Part 3 - how do members benefit from their GA membership
Part 4 - the Gift of the Year competition!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Sarah Ward, Linkedin
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Please note - the Gift of the Year entry deadline has now been extended to the 11th December.
This week we catch up with the super-busy Kelly Smith, sole proprietor of Billy's Beach Hut. We learn about the businesses origins, it's journey since launch, Billy's Beach Bus, the addition of the Isla Jewellery range that won the Fashion Accessory award in both 2019 and 2020 and much, much more about this fantastic enterprise.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Billy's Beach Hut
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Billy's Beach Hut
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this extended episode we get to meet the owners of two fantastic business that regularly do battle over the Food & Drink Gift award at the Gift of the Year competition. Ross Bearman (Ross & Ross Gifts) and Sanjay Aggarwal (Spice Kitchen) have both had victories and defeats and today we learn more about their friendly rivalry, their relationship with the Giftware Association, their passion for charity and take a look behind the scenes of their unique 'food gift' business models.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Spice Kitchen
- Ross & Ross Gifts
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Spice Kitchen
- Ross & Ross Gifts
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Managing Director Jo Lochhead founded The Crafty Kit Co in 2012 after a varied career and a long-term interest in crafting. In this episode Jo talks us through her personal journey, her ethos that drives the business, the core values that they live by and, of course some of their previously successful Gift of the Year entries and their 2021 hopes.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- The Crafty Kit Co
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- The Crafty Kit Co
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Courtney Wood is our guest for this episode, founder and Director of Bubblegum Stuff. We'll hear all about his 8 years in business, including his stint on The Apprentice in 2016 where he was the runner up, the last 14months where he's finally recruited a team around him and, of course, the products BGS has developed this year and will be submitting to Gift of the Year!
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Bubblegum Stuff
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Bubblegum Stuff
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
We're joined for the episode by the wonderful Clare Harris, MD of Talking Tables. Hear about the inception of the business and how attitudes towards table dressing and parties have changed since the millennium, along with some insight into Clare's leadership style and the brilliant culture that she has curated amongst the Talking Tables team.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Talking Tables
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Talking Tables
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this episode we take a look into the wonderful world of Puckator through the eyes of inhouse designer Lauren Billingham. Having spent over 8 years at Puckator Lauren provides us with some fantastic insight into the business and, of course, the career and experiences of a product developer.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Puckator
- Host;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- Puckator
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
In this, the first ever episode of the Product-Cast we're joined by the lovely Gary Schaffer who is a Director at United Oddsocks, and also Cucamelon and Cockney Spaniel. This episode is all about socks, of course, plus insight into how the business came about and what it's like to be part of this family-style business.
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- Guest;
- Sock Academy
- United Oddsocks
- Cucamelon
- Cockney Spaniel
- Websites;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency
- Instagram;
- United Oddsocks
- Gift of the Year
- The Giftware Association
Welcome to the Product-Cast, aka the Prod-Cast, brought to you by Gift of the Year and supported by the Giftware Association. The podcast shines a spotlight on the UK’s thriving gift industry, providing insight into all aspects of the creative and sales process, from concept to retail and everything in between.
Each week you will meet a new key player from retail or supply and learn about their role within their business, their insights on the industry and, of course, to talk about their entry or previous winner in the Gift of the Year awards.
The Prod-Cast is hosted by Alex Ryan - a marketing consultant and a gift/product marketing expert having spent 6 years as Head of Marketing at Paladone Products Ltd before launching his own agency, Marketing 101.
The Gift of the Year awards are the most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent and inspiration in our industry each year.
The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK's gift and home industry with 70 unique years' experience. Listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with our knowledge and contacts within the industry.
LINKS;
- The Product-Cast (website)
- The Giftware Association
- Gift of the Year
- Alex Ryan, Consultant
- Marketing 101, Agency