Spring Fair 2026 has announced the return of Pitch Live in partnership with co.lective
This is a high-energy live pitch competition designed for founder-led, retail-ready exhibitors.
Taking place during the show (February 1-4 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham), Pitch Live offers a curated platform where up-and-coming makers and entrepreneurs present their products, ideas and business visions directly to experienced industry judges including Claire Smith, buyer at Voisins Department Store; Judy Bendall, head of retail at Blenheim Palace; Rosie Troman, senior buyer at Nobody’s Child; Joanne Barker, owner at Hettie & Sid; and Deborah Jakobsen, founder and MD, Roo & Little Boo.
Taking place on The Merchant’s Corner stage in Hall 3 across the first three days of the show, at 3pm, the sessions are:
- Gift Product Pitch: Sunday February 1
- Fashion Product Pitch: Monday February 2
- Kids Product Pitch: Tuesday February 3
This year, three winners across Gift, Kids, and Fashion categories will receive a business-boosting prize pack worth £8,000 including:
- A three-day pop-up with co.lective at Westfield London, White City or another premium co.lective location launching in 2026
- Two 1-hour PR and brand strategy consultations with Sharon Good, CEO of Good Results PR
- A 3 m² contribution towards their Spring Fair 2027 stand
What to Expect: Pitch Live 2026
- Live Pitch Sessions: Selected brands take the stage to pitch their concepts, products and plans, showcasing what makes them stand out.
- Feedback Potential: A panel of retail leaders, buyers and industry experts delivers practical, real-time feedback designed to strengthen their retail strategy.
- Spotlight & Exposure: Participants gain exposure to a wide network of retailers, buyers, and media attending Spring Fair, with the chance to secure orders or strategic deals on the spot.
- Talent Discovery: For established retailers and buyers, Pitch Live offers a curated shortlist of new, trend-led brands, ideal for sourcing fresh collections and tapping into evolving consumer tastes.
Jackson Szabo, portfolio director, Spring Fair said: “In a climate where independence, creativity and agility are more crucial than ever, Pitch Live offers a direct route to growth. It breaks down barriers for smaller brands and helps buyers discover fresh potential beyond established names. For the trade as a whole, this means the constant renewal of product ranges, diversification, and forward-thinking merchandising. As Spring Fair reshapes itself to become more than a marketplace, evolving into a hub of inspiration, innovation and partnership, Pitch Live captures the spirit of invention and opportunity. It offers a platform where the next breakout brand can meet the buyer who champions them, where new ideas become commercially viable collections, and where retail innovation truly earns its spotlight.”
Last year’s Pitch Live winner discovered first-hand how valuable the experience was for their businesses. Nici Robinson, founder of Blue Bear & Co, “Pitch Live gave us real confidence, strong exposure and genuine interest from buyers. Winning was a huge boost and has already helped drive sales and new conversations.”
Deadline for entries is Tuesday January 13 2026. Visit the Pitch Live page at www.springfair.com/pitch-live for details.
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