The Home & Gift Association (HGA) has strengthened its relationship with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), following a strategic meeting focused on growth, exports, regulation and support for small businesses
HGA Managing Director Gemma Sault met with Lord Leong, the Government’s representative for small businesses, alongside representatives from the DBT to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the UK’s home, gift, lifestyle and stationery sector.
Representing around 400 suppliers, manufacturers, retailers and service providers, the HGA highlighted issues including rising costs, export barriers and increasing regulatory pressures.
The association also called for greater support for international expansion, improved access to trade shows and consideration of tax relief measures to help businesses remain competitive.
International growth was a key focus, with the DBT outlining opportunities available through partnerships with online marketplaces in regions including Latin America and the Middle East. The HGA will work with the department to help members explore these opportunities.
Trade shows were also discussed, with the association highlighting their importance in attracting international buyers and supporting business growth. The HGA also outlined plans for a new Trade Fair Council, which will examine barriers facing smaller businesses, including rising exhibition and operational costs.
Regulatory challenges, including packaging, sustainability and evolving EU requirements, were also raised, with the DBT requesting further evidence from the sector to help inform future policy discussions.
Small businesses are the backbone of our industry, but many are facing increasing challenges when it comes to trading, regulation and growth. This meeting was an important opportunity to ensure the voices of our members are being heard at the highest level.
HGA Managing Director Gemma Sault
The meeting concluded with agreed actions covering trade events, international marketplace opportunities, regulatory impacts and future engagement between the HGA and DBT.
Meanwhile, the HGA has launched #ShowUsYourShelfies, a new social media campaign designed to celebrate great retail displays and merchandising across the sector.
Retailers, brands and suppliers are being encouraged to share photographs of eye-catching displays, new launches, seasonal showcases and bestselling products in stores.
Members can share their shelfies using #ShowUsYourShelfies and tagging the HGA. Selected entries will be shared across the association’s social channels.
Photographs can also be emailed to marketing@hga-uk.org, along with details of the store and any other relevant information.
