Welcome to Retail Insights, the podcast where we delve into the latest trends, strategies, and thought leadership shaping the retail industry today. Each episode brings you in-depth conversations with industry experts, innovators, and key figures who are driving the future of retail. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Retail Insights offers valuable perspectives and actionable insights on everything from consumer behaviour and digital transformation to operational best practices and market trends.
Series 1: Voices from Spring Fair
In this first series, Voices from Spring Fair, renowned retail legend Jeff Banks takes the host’s seat as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the UK’s leading trade show, Spring Fair. Jeff interviews some of the most prominent members of the Spring Fair community—retailers, exhibitors, and thought leaders—who share their personal experiences, challenges, and the lasting impact the event has had on their businesses.
This series is a tribute to the loyal community that has supported and thrived through Spring Fair. From the inspiring stories of entrepreneurship to the insights into how Spring Fair has driven innovation and growth, these conversations offer a unique window into the evolving retail landscape.
Join us for Voices from Spring Fair as we honour 75 years of retail innovation, community, and success, and stay tuned for future series where we continue to explore the dynamic world of retail through expert-led discussions.
Deryane Tadd on 20 Years of Independent Fashion Retail: Cyber-Attacks, Customer Loyalty & What's Next
Felicity Harris interviews Deryane Tadd, founder of The Dressing Room, who recounts her 20-year journey building an independent fashion retail business and shares insights on customer loyalty and adapting to change.
29 Jan 2025
How Independent Retailers Can Thrive in a Changing Market
In this episode of the Retail Insights Podcast, host Felicity is joined by Charlotte Broadbent, UK General Manager at Faire, and Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director at Hyve Group, to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing independent retailers today.From navigating supply chain disruptions to adapting to shifting consumer demands, they explore how independents can stay competitive in an evolving retail landscape. With insights on values-based buying, smart decision-making, and ...
17 Jan 2025
How to Build a Global, Generational Business: From £20 in the Kitchen to 50 Years of Retail Success
Join Jeff Banks in this insightful and inspiring episode of Retail Insight, recorded live at the Spring Fair—celebrating its 75th year as the UK’s largest trade fair. Jeff sits down with Mike Winch, the entrepreneurial force behind Candlelight, who reflects on his remarkable journey of 53 years exhibiting at the Spring Fair. From humble beginnings crafting candles in a kitchen with just £20 to building a global business spanning the UK, Hong Kong, and China, Mike shares pivotal moments, lesso...
10 Jan 2025
How to Grow a Business: Advice From a Front-Room Startup Turned Award-Winning Business
In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks chats with Amanda Peffer, founder of the award-winning children's clothing brand Blade & Rose. Amanda shares the inspiring story of how her frustration with bland babywear led to the creation of her vibrant and innovative brand, which celebrates crawling nappy bottoms with colorful and stretchy designs. From humble beginnings in her Lake District home to winning Gift of the Year and building an ethical, sustainable business, A...
3 Jan 2025
How to Grow a Multi-Channel Retail Empire: Direct-to-Consumer, Amazon, and Brick-and-Mortar Success
In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Ray Qudos, Consultant at Keplin, one of the UK’s fastest-growing direct-to-consumer brands. Ray shares Keplin's remarkable journey from a student startup to a thriving £30M business, highlighting their innovative approach to affordability, sustainability, and brand development. Ray also discusses the pivotal role of Spring Fair in their expansion strategy, offering insights into their first-ever exhibit and ...
23 Dec 2024
How to Build a Sustainable, Socially Led Business: Impact, Charity Partnerships and Purpose Over Profit
In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Evan Lewis, founder of sustainable stationery brand VENT for Change. Evan shares his inspiring journey as an environmental entrepreneur, starting with surplus recycled pencils and evolving into a socially conscious brand that funds global education projects.Evan also highlights the importance of in-person connections at trade fairs, the impact of sustainability in retail, and how Spring Fair helps expand VENT for Change’s reac...
20 Dec 2024
How to Grow and Elevate Your Product Line: From Design to Storytelling and Packaging
In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Craig Wensley, the creative force behind DCUK, to explore the whimsical world of wooden ducks and the enduring appeal of Spring Fair. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Spring Fair remains the UK’s largest trade exhibition, and for Craig, it’s a must-attend event. Craig shares the fascinating journey of DCUK, from its humble beginnings with Indonesian furniture to crafting over 300 charming duck designs that bring smiles to cus...
13 Dec 2024
How the Greeting Card Association Supports Retail: Preserving a Tradition That Can’t Be Replaced
In this episode of Retail Insight, host Jeff Banks sits down with Adriana Lovesy from the Greeting Card Association to explore the unique and enduring appeal of handwritten greeting cards in a digital world. Adriana shares her memories of Spring Fair and explains how this iconic event has supported greeting card businesses for decades, from small startups to established publishers.This episode is perfect for retailers, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the power of personal touch in busi...
13 Dec 2024
Masters of the Gift Industry: Defining Gifting, Trade Show Strategies, and Amplifying Retail Voices
In this episode of Retail Insight, Sarah Ward, CEO of the Giftware Association, joins us to share her insider’s perspective on the dynamic world of giftware. Sarah dives into her unique role supporting businesses of all sizes, highlighting the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and advocacy in navigating today’s retail challenges. From tackling industry-wide issues like late payments and high business rates to embracing sustainability and trends shaping the future of retail, Sara...
6 Dec 2024
How to Build a Strong Brand: Creating Clarity Through Seamless Customer Experiences
In celebration of Spring Fair's 75th anniversary, Jeff Banks talks with retail expert Stephen Spencer about the future of retail. Discover how to create value-driven experiences, blend online and in-person shopping, and embrace sustainability to engage customers and elevate brands. Listen in to hear how Stephen’s team reimagines retail spaces, builds authentic connections through storytelling, and helps businesses turn creativity into impactful customer experiences. A must-listen for r...
29 Nov 2024
How to Tap Into European Buying Groups: Growing Your Business Internationally
In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks chats with Daniel Kullman of EK Retail, a cooperative buying group representing over 4,000 retailers across Europe. Daniel explains how EK Retail empowers independent retailers by offering innovative products, centralised buying power and a wide range of services. Learn how the cooperative bridges bricks-and-mortar and e-commerce, navigates post-Brexit challenges and leverages Spring Fair to source unique suppliers and set retail trends. A ...
22 Nov 2024
How to Drive Demand: Storytelling, Licensing, and Impactful Exhibitions
In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks speaks with Aylish, Trade Marketing Manager at Enesco, about the art of bringing globally recognized licensed products like Disney and Warner Brothers into the UK’s gift market. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Aylish shares insights into managing major licenses, navigating digital and traditional marketing, and the strategic role of trade shows like Spring Fair in connecting with the right audiences. Listen in to disco...
15 Nov 2024
How to Grow Your Creative Business: From Designer to Store Owner
In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks interviews Samantha, founder of Nest, an award-winning gift and homeware business. Starting as a contemporary craft gallery, Samantha shares her journey from creating pottery to expanding Nest into three thriving shops and an online presence. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Samantha discusses how the event has been instrumental to her success, sourcing unique products that reflect British craftsmanship and fulfilling customer deman...
8 Nov 2024
How to Grow a Sustainable Retail Business: Leveraging Trade Shows on the Journey to B Corp
In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks interviews Tim Hollis from Talking Tables, a brand known for creating products that inspire social connection. Recorded during Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, Tim shares insights on Talking Tables’ journey, from its beginnings at a kitchen table to becoming a go-to for partyware and home décor. They dive into the importance of trade shows, Talking Tables’ commitment to sustainability, and the brand’s shift towards reusable, design-forward items. T...
1 Nov 2024
How to Stay Relevant in Retail: Mastering Mail Order in a Digital World
In this episode of Retail Insight, Jeff Banks sits down with Kay Hutchinson, Head of Product Marketing at Coopers of Stortford, to discuss the evolution of a brand that began as a market stall 30 years ago and now offers over 10,000 products online. Recorded at the Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary, they explore the critical role Spring Fair plays in helping Coopers source unique, functional items for their catalog, designed for both their loyal older customer base and a younger online audience....
25 Oct 2024
How to Create a High Street Store of the Future: Sourcing, Trends & Customer-Led Experiences
In this episode of Retail Insight for the Spring Fair, host Jeff Banks sits down with Maggie Thornton, owner of Alligator Pear, a unique gift shop affectionately dubbed the "Village Department Store." Maggie shares the story behind her shop’s quirky name, her extensive background in retail, and how her passion for the industry has fueled her success. Maggie’s journey began with a career at Debenhams, but her entrepreneurial spirit led her to create her own retail space, evolving from a small ...
15 Oct 2024
How to reinvent your brand and find new customers with Nick Ronald from Casa Verde
In this episode of Retail Insight, host Jeff Banks talks to Nick Ronald, founder of the home and garden brand Casa Verde, about his inspiring journey in the retail industry. Nick shares how he launched his business just before the pandemic and how exhibiting at Spring Fair played a crucial role in its success. Recorded during the 75th anniversary of Spring Fair, the UK’s largest and most influential retail trade exhibition, Nick explains why events like Spring Fair are the lifeblood of retail...
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