Hello ,
Greetings from AW HQ Sheffield.
Happy New Year!
This is the first newsletter of 2019, and the beginning of what promises to be an eventful year stuffed full of unknown outcomes. But whatever happens, I know one thing.. we will somehow muddle through and maybe with a bit of luck even prosper and do amazing things.
First of though from all at AW we thank you for your support over the last year, and we wish you all a very prosperous, enjoyable and fun 2019.
It's the Chinese year of the Pig.. haha - not really sure what that means, but (I read) the year of the Pig can apparently bring financial uncertainty that will be overcome with hard work.. erm.. interesting :)
The only thing that we know is that we don't know.. Or to put it another way.. What we do know (whatever you think of Brexit) is that is that we DON'T know exactly what's going to happen.. so one thing is for sure it will be interesting.
But I will make one firm prediction: there will be some big retailers going to the wall this year and the retail environment WILL therefore change dramatically.
Here are my four trends major trend predictions for 2019.
a. The general shift to on-line retailing will continue.
b. At the same time there is a shift way from big corporate retailers to the independent sector. The fact is we just trust big business less than we did.
c. On the high street we will see a much more mixed event based environment, craft markets, entertainment, specialist venues and the like.
d. This years success stories are just been born..
The Artisan Retailer, The Innovative Independent, The Enthusiastic Specialist, The Ethical Trader - these are the traders who have a future in the Year of the Pig.
Which one are you? Lets break it down a bit..
The Artisan Retailer
Good Example: HotelChocolat.com - hip artisan Chocolates. Very cool and trendy shops that also serve drinks as well as gifts.
What they do: The artisan, adds value by offering good design and beautiful products that delight and entertain that feel special. Often the products are unique to them, carefully sourced and premium priced.
We all love the finest and best, especially if it's hipster and arty.
The Innovative Independent
Good Example: Moonpig.com - innovative personalised gifts.
What they do: They have found a new way, a different angle. an edge over the competition. Think about subscription based, curated gift boxes ect.
We all love new ways of doing things.
The Enthusiastic Specialist
Good Example: TheWhiskyExchange.com - massively successful whiskey retailers.
What they do: Pick one specialist subject and become the absolute best, communicate the passion and enthusiasm.
We all tend to trust someone who clearly loves what they do.
The Ethical Trader
Good Example: NomadsClothing.com - Ethical imported and produced clothing.
What they do: Since 1989 they have been importing from India and carefully developing an ethical clothing range.
More and more we all try to care for the planet and do the right thing.
These are all big(ish) grown up examples - that I believe demonstrate the future directions of retailing. And any retail concept can be a combination of some or all.. Which is your direction?
Wishing you great success for 2019 - may the Year of the Pig be amazing for you!
At AW we have always focused on the independent retailer. We don't compete with our customers, AW doesn't do retail (check if your other wholesalers can say this), we trade fairly as possible and always have new and interesting products arriving.
Check out the new products below.. and we have some great deals for your New Year Sales as well.
Good luck and happy trading!
David