Taking place across four days at the NEC, and running parallel to Autumn Fair, Source Home & Gift has tripled in size from the first edition in February, with a diverse showcase of homewares, furniture, gifts, toys, textiles, packaging, and stationery.
The show has more than 300 audited manufacturers championing responsibly and sustainably made products from countries including Bangladesh, China, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Uganda, UK, Uzbekistan, and Egypt.
With Goodweave and Sedex certifications, Vimla International was among them. It creates hand-woven artisanal rugs and carpets crafted from natural, sustainable fibres such as wool, jute, hemp, cotton, sisal, and silk, and are free from harmful toxins and harsh chemicals.
‘It’s been an incredible first day showcasing of some of the best manufacturers and makers in the world – it’s been such a successful first day of trading. The breadth and depth of product on show in Source Home & Gift is unparalleled for a responsible sourcing show, both in terms of product mix, and the diversity of artisan makers alongside large-scale manufacturers. It makes for a very compelling offering for our audience,’ says Suzanne Ellingham, Source Home & Gift director of sourcing.
The Responsible Retail Stage programme saw Jack Stratten, Insider Trends head of trends discuss From sustainable to responsible: The transparent future of ethical retail. The talk highlighted the importance of transparency, conversation, collaboration, accountability, and community in the future of retail. ‘Brands and suppliers need to respect the intelligence of the consumer, more-and-more they aware of ethical necessities throughout an entire supply chain and are keeping brands accountable. 82% of UK consumers say they want to purchase responsibly sourced items, whilst 62% say they have already paid more for responsibly sourced items.
‘Lots of the best ideas we’re seeing big retailers launch in areas of sustainability have come from their customers. There is no reason independent retailers can’t be utilising this same approach – brands need to be talking with customers, rather than to them.’
