Craft Focus - Dec/Jan (Issue 76)

9 INDUSTRY NEWS Industry news Creativation returns for 78 th annual show Creativation, the Association for Creative Industries’ annual show returns for its 78 th outing this January. Bringing together retail buyers, global media outlets, bloggers, trendsetters and influencers from across the craft industry, AFCI’s 2020 show will feature papercrafting, mixed media, scrapbooking, fabrics, home décor, needle arts, edible art and jewellery making. Familiar features will include product pavilions, a panel discussion and networking event and a new product showcase. There will also be a variety of experiences designed to bring together members of the creative sector. The show’s education programme will be bigger than in previous years, with participants able to choose from a variety of formats such as peer-led discussions, panels, classes and hands-on workshops. Hot topics will include business seminars focusing on social media strategy, video and email marketing and sessions on mixed media, cardmaking and embossing. New for 2020 is MyAFCI, a space where visitors can interact with digital content creators and designers through mini educational sessions, as well as hosting additional networking opportunities, encouraging members to come together to discuss goals and lessons learned throughout the event. The show will welcome a range of partners including The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA), Alliance for Independent Retailers (AIR), The Collins Group and Crafters’ Home. The Winter Market will take place in the TNNA pavilion, bringing together suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, buyers and industry supporters from within the cross stitching, knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving and yarn sectors. “We are excited to unveil some new opportunities for AFCI members to network, connect and contribute to the vibrancy of the creative arts community,” says Peter Finn, the organisation’s executive director. “Everyone who participates in Creativation should find meaningful content that helps drive their business and creative endeavours. The 2020 show will have a number of new enhancements that we believe our members will find a great deal of value in.” Creativation runs from 16 th -20 th January at Phoenix Convention Center. Find out more at creativationshow.org Latest news from the craf industry 