Exhibitors and retailers enjoyed the chance to re-kindle and establish new relationships at Scotland’s boutique Trade Fair Autumn
Against a challenging retail backdrop there were signs of resilience and innovation. The tourist season has been steady and in certain hotspots, such as Edinburgh, retail business is good. Retailers who have successfully adapted by offering original, high-quality products that speak directly to their customer base were actively placing orders at the show.
Scotland is long renowned for its innovative spirit, which was reflected with a vibrant and expanded Launch Gallery, showcasing a fresh wave of entrepreneurial talent and exciting new brands.
The quality of retailers attending was encouraging with most intent on placing orders for the pre Christmas season and searching out those gems for 2026.
Exhibitor Claire Baird said: “The friendly, warm atmosphere of Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn makes this show one of our favourites. We get the chance to really talk to retailers, showcase our full range and allow them to see and touch the products.”
”We definitely picked up a couple of things that will put some money in the tills this side of Christmas”
Michael Apter, Paper Tiger, Edinburgh
Newcomer Juliet Russell from Honey Pot in the Launch Gallery added: “We attended with a target list of stockists and orders to achieve and we have met this, so the Show has ticked all our boxes.”
Michael Apter, owner of multiple retailer Paper Tiger in Edinburgh said: “We placed a handful of orders, mainly for 2026, and we had a couple of interesting chats with people about plans for next year. We definitely picked up a couple of things that will put some money in the tills this side of Christmas. Without this show we would have missed out, so it was worth the trip through from Edinburgh.”
Many exhibitors are testing the water at this show for the Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring, which is held from 18-20 Jan 2026 at the SEC, Glasgow. As a much bigger and wider show this will attract many thousands of retailers from all over Scotland and overseas, seeking out some well-designed, commercially viable stock.
Show director Mark Saunders said: “While the retail landscape has been more challenging this year, those who understand their customers and offer the right products continue to perform well. Our shows provide the perfect platform for retailers to discover fresh, market-ready stock. We look forward to seeing everyone in January!”
