More than 100 new exhibitors showcased their latest products at the AGHA Sydney Gift Fair last February, providing a much needed boost to the gift and homewares industry.
Organised by the Australian Gift & Homewares Association (AGHA) and held at Sydney Olympic Park over four days, many of the 400 exhibitors said they had their best ever fair with sales exceeding all expectations.
One of the highlights was the Sydney debut of the AGHA Launch Pad, with over 40 startups displaying their new brands for the first time to the Sydney retail market.
AGHA CEO, Wayne Castle, says that as the peak industry body representing the gift and homewares sector, AGHA has a responsibility to provide opportunities to new and upcoming businesses to launch into the retail market.
“The Launch Pad at AGHA Gift Fairs provides a bespoke opportunity to introduce new products and services into the retail sector with a minimal investment and expert advice along the way,” he explains.
“We debuted The Launch Pad initiative last August starting with 12 start-up businesses and in Sydney we more than tripled this figure. Already attracting interest from new and exciting Australian brands, it is expected that The Launch Pad will double in size again at the AGHA Melbourne Gift Fair this August.”
The AGHA Melbourne Gift Fair will be held from 5 to 9 August 2017 across two venues, the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre and Melbourne Showgrounds.
By Marion Gerritsen
