37 PROFILE In the past, we exhibited at many UK trade shows but haven’t done for quite a few years now and have no plans to do so. We reach potential advertisers via hard copy advertising in relevant trade magazines and we’re well found by the major search engines including Google. Hobby & crafts have boomed over the last two years! Have you noticed any new trends? Hobbies and crafts are just one of the categories featured in the directory so I can’t claim to have an in-depth knowledge of the sector or emerging trends. However, I think that it almost certainly enjoyed a surge in interest during the pandemic when lockdowns forced people to look for pastimes that could be enjoyed indoors. The revival of interest in knitting and embroidery and the demand for handmade jewellery, toys and giftware has enabled many small businesses to emerge offering an alternative to mass market products. What sets you apart from your competitors? I would advise potential craft retailers to offer a diverse range of products and, whether online or in store, have knowledgeable staff available to offer help and advice to consumers. Great customer service can never be underestimated. What are you looking forward to most over the next year? Sadly, David passed away in February 2019 so I’m now the sole director. I run the business from the beautiful Andalucian province of Malaga. Although the economic outlook in the UK is still rather uncertain, I’m looking forward to continuing to offer a reliable source of wholesale suppliers to retailers and to offer wholesalers of craft and many other products, an effective route to market from little more than a pound a day. THE WHOLESALER LTD. +44 (0)1608 662 298 www.thewholesaler.co.uk
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