With less than two months to go until the UK’s only baby trade show, the team at Harrogate International Nursery Fair (HINF) has taken the time to address some of the industry’s most common misconceptions about the show.
Retailers and buyers from across the UK and further afield are already registering online and preparing to attend the essential trade event, which is taking place from Sunday 24 – Tuesday 26 March 2019.
“We know many visitors are still on the fence as to whether to attend,” said Adrian Sneyd, show organiser, “so we’d like to answer a few of those common misconceptions!”
“People sometimes say there are not enough big brands exhibiting,” continued Adrian, “buthere are many fantastic brands returning to Harrogate in 2019.”
Brands showing at the 2019 show include Allison Baby (Joie, Nuna and Graco), Babystyle, Bebecar, Beaba, Bugaboo, Cheeky Rascals, CuddleCo, DCUK, Hauck, Laessig, Mee-go, Micralite, Obaby, Peg Perego, Red Castle, Red Kite, Silver Cross, Unilove, UPPABaby, Sheldon and Venicci. Visit the HINF website for a full exhibitor list.
“Another common concern is that retailers say they can’t afford to take time out of their shops to attend,” said Adrian. “However, while you are manning your store, your competitors will be placing orders for the ‘must have’ trending products that customers will be actively seeking in months to come. As the saying goes, ‘failure to invest in your business, is investing in failure’.”
Another issue that Adrian addressed is that many suppliers invite retailers and buyers to private previews, supposedly negating the need to visit the show.
“While this is very nice, each preview entails a day out of your store,” he explains. “At Harrogate you can see the majority of your favourite suppliers all under one roof – and while you are there, you will undoubtedly pick up some very exciting new products from brand new companies that you didn’t even know existed.”
He also advises potential visitors not to under-estimate the value of networking. “Everyone who is anyone in the nursery industry will be in Harrogate – experts will be giving forecasts and information about the UK nursery industry, consumer habits and trends which can help you plan for a successful future.”
The final concern Adrian addresses is that Harrogate is too far away and too expensive. “Harrogate is actually easily accessible by car and public transport and accommodation is very reasonably priced,” he says. “And many exhibitors have exclusive show offers – so the money saved on orders placed at the show could easily cover your costs of visiting!”
Visit the website at www.nurseryfair.com for more information and to register to attend.
