Designworks Collective launched new products in each of its existing brands and also introduced a new brand at the recent Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne.
The Here’s How cocktail range brings something new to the Designworks product portfolio and will excite potential and existing customers, explains sales manager, Belinda Allemand.
“Here’s How has been launched to complement our existing range of barware under the Gentleman’s Hardware brand, which has always been very successful,” she says.
“We wanted to open up the space and not just offer products to our male consumer and audience. Here’s How is designed to tap into both a male and female demographic as well as add another element with the introduction of cocktail mixers to co-merchandise with the barware, so it is delivering a full cocktail story alongside glassware and acrylics for both winter and summer.
“Here’s How was definitely the hero product for the show and we have sold out of most of the products in the first couple of days. We have completely exceeded expectations and we will be pulling some strings to get more stock in before Christmas. Our customers are very excited about the launch and some have requested additional orders after pre-ordering before the show,” she enthuses.
“Presenting it at the show has been very important and has created a lot of excitement and orders. Seeing it in a catalogue is one thing, but bringing the experience to life and being able to taste the mixers and have a brand story makes a big difference.”
The new range certainly attracted many buyers, with plenty of interest from independent stores as well as corporate buyers such as Minimax, Myer and Australia Post.
“This year we have seen a lot more foot traffic to our stand and we feel as though there are a number of factors that are driving this. With the increasing cost of living, buyers are attracted to our accessible price points, which is something that we pride ourselves on. In our candle space there have been a number of price increases, but we have tried to keep our pricing competitive while also delivering a high-quality product.”
In addition, the team had created a completely different format for its stand, which not only captured the attention from buyers but also the best stand award judges at Reed Gift Fairs, with Designworks winning best medium stand.
“We were very excited to receive the award for best medium stand at Reed. Previously we had just one single wall, but this year we wanted to create a more inviting space to give the brands their own home, but also cohesively fit together and shop freely and see all of the product.”
