Yesterday was a good first day at the Melbourne gift fair with a diverse mix of retailers attending and most keen to do business.
Whereas five or so years ago this trade show would be dominated by gift shop owners and staff, now the retail channel mix is broad. yesterday I saw folks from jeweller, garden centre, pet and newsagency businesses, as well as gift.
There were plenty with online only businesses. There were also several over from New Zealand for the trade show.
While I think Reed is running for show one or two days too long, day one augurs well for the value of the event for the suppliers who have stumped up big money to be there.