Craft Focus - April/May 2024 (Issue 102)

81 BUSINESS RETAIL titled ‘The Butterfly Effect’. Addressing the often-overlooked aspect of air quality in building design, they shared how the presence of butterflies signifies healthy air in nature, setting the stage for their mission. Blending innovation and environmental consciousness, their talk seamlessly transitioned from conceptual inspiration to technical details, showcasing their air quality monitoring and management solution. The presentation highlighted Butterfly’s positive impact on health, sustainability, and energy efficiency, emphasising both commercial and personal advantages. The holistic approach to building design resonated with the audience’s desire for a healthier and eco-friendly future. Butterfly’s commitment to a comprehensive, scientifically-backed solution left the audience inspired and informed, offering valuable insights into a transformative brand at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and wellbeing. The 21st-century conscious client In a compelling panel discussion hosted by Interior Design Declares on How do we meet the needs of the 21stcentury conscious client?, passionate interior design specialists including Mathew Freeman, Founder - Freeman Studio, Nicola Holden, Director - Nicola Holden Design, Emer Gillespie, Director and Designer - Spark and Bell Lighting Design, and Helen Gordon, Founder - Kite Creative, highlighted the need for a mindset shift in the industry. Advocating for change, they explored the challenges and opportunities of adopting a circular and transparent business model in retail interior design. The collaborative movement, uniting industry leaders, store owners, designers, and suppliers, aims to promote sustainability and embrace conscious choices for overall health and wellbeing. Real-world examples and case studies illustrated successful implementations of their principles, making the concepts tangible. In summary, the Interior Design Declares panel discussion served as a rallying cry for positive change in the retail interior design industry, offering valuable insights for professionals and enthusiasts passionate about design, sustainability, and conscious consumerism. Re-investing Fashion Waste Back into Business Barry Kane, the Managing Director of Upcycle Labs, delivered an inspiring presentation titled Re-investing Fashion Waste Back into the Business on their mission to turn 100 per cent of fashion waste into retail products, showcasing a transformative shift in the retail industry’s sustainability approach. The talk emphasised the technological innovation behind Upcycle Labs’ process and highlighted the positive response from major fashion brands like Burberry and Chanel. Barry shared case studies illustrating the tangible impact on waste reduction and retail sustainability. Bridging the gap between innovation and application, he provided insights into the intricate process of turning fashion waste into retail products, showcasing physical examples created using Upcycle Labs’ model, from brick slips to artistic home decor. In conclusion, the talk was a revelation in sustainable retail innovation, offering a glimpse into a future where waste is ingeniously transformed, solidifying Upcycle Labs as pioneers shaping the industry’s sustainable evolution. Great branding During ‘What makes a good brand great?’, The Future Collective’s co-founders, Kate and Matt, delivered an insightful talk, unravelling the secrets of how exceptional brands master differentiation. With over two decades of experience in brand strategy and communications, they provided a compelling exploration into the crucial factors that elevate brands from ordinary to extraordinary, offering a transformative roadmap. Their presentation seamlessly blended practical insights and inspiring examples from renowned global brands such as Anya Hindmarch, Courvoisier, Nike, and Apple. Drawing on real-world practice, they shared tips and guidance applicable to founders, marketers, business leaders, and brand enthusiasts. Unpacking the ‘10 ways to make a good brand great,’ they stressed the importance of starting with the ‘Why?’ and sharing brand stories in a human and authentic manner. They also emphasised the significance of understanding the audience through active listening and adopting community-centric and localised brand strategies. The cofounders concluded by highlighting the current need for brands to convey a more soulful and hopeful side during such turbulent times. In summary, Kate and Matt demystified brand elevation complexities, offering a wealth of practical insights and actionable takeaways. This session served as a resource for those looking to transform their brand, providing a blend of theory, practical tips, and inspiring examples for navigating the competitive landscape of brand development. The Future Collective: https://future-collective.co.uk/ Spring & Autumn Fair: www.springfair.com and www.autumnfair.com

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=