Autumn Fair is launching  a showcase of artisanal products from across the world at thius year’s event (NEC Birmingham, 2-5 September)

The £3billion UK craft industry is growing by 4.5% a year, and the artisanal trend has become a key feature of the home and gift market globally.

Global Handicraft at Autumn Fair 2018 will see manufacturers feature bespoke ranges from jewellery to fine ceramics, and exotic textiles to quirky lighting, allowing retailers the opportunity to be the first to stock the unique and rare products.

The showcase, which will run for the full length of the Fair, will also feature live demonstrations by talented craftspeople, and seminars for retailers on how to take advantage of the booming handicraft market.

Louise Young, MD of Spring and Autumn Fair at Ascential Events, said consumers wanted to connect with the products they buy and to know the stories behind their purchases. “With this new section, buyers can get their hands on products that are handmade, inspiring and steeped in culture, and get their orders in ahead of the competition,” she said.

Global trend forecaster WGSN has been tracking the trend for some time and predicts it will become increasingly important across all interiors categories.

“Autumn Fair is retailers’ gateway to the golden quarter and key retail spikes such as Easter and Mother’s Day,” Ms Young added. “The show is perfectly timed for short orders and the key holiday selling period, as well as giving retailers the chance to be the first to see and order products for 2019. Handicraft is a growing source of revenue across the industry, from independent gift retailers to multi-store high street retailers.”

With shoppers more in-tune with global environmental and social issues, the UK’s handicraft industry often presents buyers with the ethically and ecologically conscious merchandise that consumers now demand.

The new  section will also be a permanent fixture at Spring Fair (NEC, 3-7 February 2019).