As a buyer and seller it is imperative that you understand the trends in your specific market, and take a keen interest in improving your own business knowledge. Some wholesale trade shows and fairs can be a tiring day out, for sure, but where better to take the pulse of your industry?

Attending exhibitions, wholesale trade shows and fairs and exhibitions can actually be a highly rewarding experience and a huge learning curve, especially if you’re just starting out in retail. Attendance at a trade show allows you to meet new suppliers in person, some of whom will be offering trade show specific discounts, and you can catch up with your old suppliers and partners. You get a much better idea of size, quality and colour of stock in person, than you do by browsing a catalogue or searching online. Plus you can see what a range of stock looks like when grouped together, invaluable if you have physical premises.

In addition a quick spin around the hall (or halls) and you’ll be spotting the latest fashions and predicting the next trends applicable to your particular industry in no time. Many shows and fairs host workshops and talks, and these can prove invaluable if you’re looking to up-skill.

You may not be able to get to many wholesale trade shows and fairs, but those you can attend will enable you to network with others in retailing and the e-commerce industry and ensure that you’re pushing your business on to the next level.

With so many wholesale trade shows and fairs to choose from, where on earth do you start?

We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite trade shows and fairs, along with others you may find it useful to know about.

Which Wholesale Trade Shows and Fairs are worth a visit?

Here is a list of UK trade shows and fairs that we think it would be worth visiting in 2019:

London Textile Fair – 9 -10th January 2019
Giving and Living – Westpoint, Exeter 13th-16th January 2019
Scotland’s Trade Fair – 20-22nd January 2019
Spring Fair –3rd – 7th Feb 2019
Jewellery & Watch Birmingham – 3rd – 7th Feb 2019
Toy Collectors Fair –10th Feb 2019
Bubble London – 10th – 12th Feb 2019
Pure London –10th – 12th Feb 2019
The National Franchise Exhibition 15th – 16th Feb 2019
MODA –17th – 19th Feb 2019
StockXchange by Off-Price – TBC
Textile Forum Fashion Fabric Show –13th – 14th March 2019
Harrogate International Nursery Fair –24th – 26th March 2019
Natural & Organic Products Europe 7th – 8th April 2019
Farm Shop and Deli Show – 8th – 10th April 2019
Toy and Train Collectors Fair – 28th April 2019
In-Cosmetics Global (Paris) – Apr 2nd – 4th 2019
London Stationery Show – Apr 30th – 1st May 2019
London Original Print Fair – 25th – 28th April 2019
International Make-Up Artist Trade Show-London 17th – 19th May 2019
Outdoor Trade Show – 9th – 11th July 2019
The Manchester Furniture Show – 14th – 16th July 2019
MODA – 4th – 6th August 2019
International Jewellery London –1st – 3rd September 2019
Autumn Fair – 1st – 4th September 2019
StockXchange by Off-Price – TBC
Scotland’s Trade Fair – 22nd – 23rd September 2019
The Olympia Beauty Show 29th -30th September 2019
Professional Beauty North – 13th – 14th October 2019

For more information on all of these and more, carry on reading below.

The London Textile Fair (TLTF)
When: 9-10th January 2019
Where: The Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH
Website: London Textile Fair

TLTF offers over 470 exhibitors in one location and is the premier platform for all your fashion fabric needs, along with clothing accessories, vintage clothing and print studios. Manufacturers and their agents will showcase their products to buyers in January. Not to be missed – one of the top fashion industry events.

Giving and Living Trade Show
When: 13th Jan 2019 – 16th Jan 2019
Where: Westpoint, Exeter
Website: Giving and Living

If you’re in the South West, this is the biggest and the best home and trade show. Exhibitors offer a wide range of general gifts and homeware for all occasions. It’s particularly useful for those based in the south west who can’t do a trade show in Birmingham or Manchester or London in one day and can’t close their business.
Very independent friendly, if you have a business that requires coastal merchandise in some form, and you target holidaymakers, this is the show for you. A great, friendly and accessible show.

Scotland’s Trade Show
When: 20- 22 Jan 2019
Where: SEC, Glasgow
Website: Scotland’s Trade Fair

Taking place over three days, you’ll find in excess of 500 companies here exhibiting thousands of products to over 5000 trade buyers, including department stores, multiples, mail-order, online, tourist attractions as well as independent retail outlets. The show incorporates home and gift, fashion and accessories, craft and food and drink, and showcases the finest Scottish companies and brands.

Spring Fair
When: 3rd-7th February 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Spring Fair

One of the largest and most popular shows of the year, Spring Fair attracts over 58,000 visitors and spans numerous halls. A colourful conglomeration of over 2,500 mass and independent retail suppliers – both national and international – exhibiting their wares, means that there’s something here for everyone regardless of budget.

Make sure you register in advance as it is free for all trade visitors or potential business owners. There’s plenty of parking and public transport too to make things nice and easy.

Jewellery and Watch Birmingham
When: 3rd-7th February 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Jewellery and Watch

Coinciding with Spring Fair, and taking place in February, a key buying month, Jewellery and Watch is ‘perfectly timed to attract over 22,000 powerful decision-making buyers who come to find inspiration, innovation and to stock up for the forthcoming seasons.’

Toy Collectors Fair
When: 10th February 2019
Where: NEC, Birmingham
Website: Toy Collector’s Fair

A great trade fair for anyone looking to sell toys, with over 500 stalls to browse. You can find collectables of all kinds, both old and new, and prices ranging from the cheap, to the more high-end. The NEC Birmingham is a trade fair favourite, and as such has excellent parking and transport links.

Bubble London
When: 10th – 12th February 2019
Where: Pure London
Website:

Bubble is the UK’s biggest trade show for the children’s wear industry. The premier kids fashion show, it offers a wide range of kids’ fashions and accessories as well as homeware. In 2019 it relocates and becomes part of Pure London. (See below)

Pure London
When: 10th- 12th February 2019
Where: Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, London W14 8UX
Website: Pure London

Branded as the UK’s number one leading fashion trade event, Pure London aims to bring together the entire fashion supply chain, from fibre through to finished garments, here you’ll find all your fashion buying requirements under one roof.

With over 17,000 visitors through its doors at Olympia London, this is one of the biggest and most successful fashion fairs of its kind. You’ll find in excess of 1,300 womenswear, menswear and kids wear collections as well as 160 garment and fabric suppliers from thirteen countries around the world.

The National Franchise Exhibition
When: 15-16 Feb 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Franchise Exhibition

If you’re interested in taking on a franchise, this may be the show for you. Here you’ll find The Growing Your Own Business (GYOB) conference and showcase, designed ‘to equip entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to build and sustain a successful business’, opportunities to attend seminars and indulge in some networking, and meet representatives from organisations can assist you in boosting the growth of your business growth.

MODA
When: 17th – 19th February 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: MODA

Another massive gathering for the fashion industry, MODA is one of the largest annual fashion events in the UK. Moda, takes place twice a year with collections from leading womenswear, footwear and accessory brands. A packed three days full of identification of key trends, along with retail content, inspiring catwalk shows, social events and more, the show attracts fashion buyers, press and influencers from across the UK and beyond.

Moda is the first port of call for independents, department stores and e-tailers alike, so come and discover the collections that will make your business.

StockXchange by Off-Price
When: TBC
Where: ILEC Conference Centre
Website: Offprice

Previously known as the London Off-Price Show, this is one of our favourites (and one that we’ve exhibited at ourselves). It covers a broad spectrum of womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, footwear, sportswear and accessories. It was established in 2000, bringing together suppliers and buyers for two busy days of high-quality fashion at unbelievably low prices. The ability to order stock immediately from wholesalers, importers and specialist suppliers from Europe and overseas means suppliers can deliver quickly.

Textile Forum Fashion Fabric Show
When: 13th – 14th March 2019
Where: One Marylebone, London
Website: Textile Forum

Launched in 2002, this is the perfect trade show if you are looking to source luxury fashion fabrics. It promises small minimums and a great selection to choose from. It is all set across two floors at the beautiful One Marylebone building.

The show has proved its worth for fabric buyers from all size of business, from the huge chains to small independents, craft shops, seamstresses and costumiers.

Harrogate International Nursery Fair
When: 24th – 26th March 2019
Where: Harrogate Convention Centre
Website: Nursery Fair

Harrogate Nursery Fair is the UK’s premier nursery trade event attracting almost every manufacturer and supplier of baby goods in the UK – as well as numerous companies from around the world. Harrogate International Nursery Fair was first established 43 years ago, and the show has earned a reputation as the first port of call for retailers and buyers searching for new and innovative baby products. You’ll find everything—from pregnancy, baby goods and accessories to wheeled goods, infant car seats and nursery furniture, for kids aged from birth to four years.

In 2019 Harrogate International Nursery Fair is looking forward to welcoming a large number of major brands. To their show in March. Major retailers exhibiting include, Laessig, CuddleCo, Obaby and Mee-go who are presenting Uni-Love as another new brand in their portfolio.

Natural and Organic Products London
When: 7th – 8th April 2019
Where: ExCel London
Website: Natural Products

Natural and Organic Products Europe is Europe’s biggest trade show for natural and organic products, attracting in excess of 10,000 visitors from around the world. If you’re a buyer for a natural health and good living business, then you’ll find everything you need here under one roof, thanks to over 700 exhibiting companies. Products being exhibited include natural and organic, Fairtrade and Free From, vegan and vegetarian food and drink, as well as natural beauty and personal care products. There’s also a packed programme of expert seminars and live cooking demonstrations.

National Convenience Show
When: 8 – 10th April 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: National Convenience Show

If you are looking for suppliers in the whole convenience and forecourt retail industries, this is the show to attend. You’ll find suppliers offering everything from bakery products to greeting cards, and with over 600 brands attending, it’s sure to be a busy one.

Farm Shop and Deli Show
When: 8 – 10th April 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Farm Shop and Deli Show

This award winning and market leading specialist event gathers together over 450 suppliers of the best quality local and regional produce, as well as equipment, labelling and packaging solutions. You’ll find all the big ideas, innovative suppliers and exciting products you need in order to ensure your business succeeds. There’ll also be a Live event programme, with a one-stop shop for advice and information with lively seminars and debates from industry leaders.

Toy and Train Collectors Fair
When: 28th April 2018
Where: Westpoint Exeter
Website:Toy, Train and Collector’s Fair

Visit or exhibit at the Toy and Train Collectors Fair at Westpoint in Exeter. The show caters for all collectors, with an endless list of makes and brands. Choose from Dinky, Corgi, Minichamps, Hornby Bassett Lowke, Meccano, Spot-On, Marklin, Scalextric, EFE, Action Man, Mainline Trains, Lledo, Dolls, Teddy Bears and so much more. The show attracts dealers from all over the UK and is handy for the M5.

In Cosmetics Global
When: 2nd – 4th April 2019
Where: Paris
Website: In Cosmetics

Last year in London, this year the show moves to Paris. At In Cosmetics Global you’ll find exhibitions and a summit that gathers together thousands of exhibitors of raw materials, fragrances, lab equipment, testing and regulatory solutions. Events provide the launch pad for innovation and there are plenty of seminars.

Internet Retailing Expo
When: 3-4th April 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Internet Retailing Expo

This one is potentially more for learning and networking, rather than for buying or selling. However, with over 300 exhibitors, if you are interested in learning more about delivering multichannel strategies and networking with people in the industry, then this might be the one for you.

London Stationery Show
When: 30th April – 1st May 2019
Where: Business Design Centre, London
Website: Stationery Show

Are you looking to sell writing or paper products? If you are, then this is just the show for you, with over 150 stationery suppliers, and set over two days in the sizeable Business Design Centre. This is the UK’s leading stationery event, and offers buyers access to new and exciting products and start up brands. You can enhance your ranges and attend a programme of talks and creative stationery workshops. Find inspiration and network to your heart’s content.

London Original Print Fair (LOPF)
When: 25th – 28th April 2019
Where: Royal Academy of Arts
Website: London Original Print Fair

Founded in 1985, The London Original Print Fair (LOPF) attracts ‘international specialist dealers, galleries and print publishers. As a buyer you’ll be able to browse the wonderful selection of old and new prints (spanning 500 years of art) all in one space, right in the heart of London at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Artists include old and modern masters, from Rembrandt and Canaletto to Whistler, Matisse and Picasso. Prints by today’s leading artists are also for sale, including works by celebrated Royal Academician printmakers including David Hockney, Cornelia Parker, Grayson Perry and Christopher Le Brun PRA.

International Make-up Artists Trade Show
When: May 17th – 19th 2019
Where: Olympia National, London
Website: International Make Up Artists Show

Established in 2002, the International Make-up Artists Trade Show in London provides a glittering abundance of education and versatility for anyone interested in a career in make-up artistry. There are classes offering the tools you need in order to grow your career in theatre, film, TV, fashion and editorial work, and there will be a range of top exhibitors on hand for all your stock requirements.

Outdoor Trade Show
When: 9th – 11th July 2019
Where: EventCity, Manchester, M41 7TB
Website: Outdoor Trade Show

If you run a specialist outdoor business, this is the show for you. Several hundred manufacturers and distributors under one roof mean you can source all the clothing, footwear, backpacks, camping equipment, climbing gear, trail running gear and travel accessories you need.

The show attracts all retail buyers who specialise in general outdoor sports and activities, including independent outdoor retailers and buyers.

The Manchester Furniture Show
When: 14th – 16th July 2019
Where: Manchester Central
Website: Manchester Furniture Show

Are you a retail or contract buyer, an interior designer, a specifier or procurement officer? Then Manchester is the place to be during the summer of 2019. Billed as relaxed and friendly, the show had built a fantastic reputation and attracts top quality exhibitors. You’ll find the newest trends in upholstery, cabinet and dining, beds and bedroom furniture, occasional, mirrors, art and decorative accessories, set slap bang in the middle of Manchester.

MODA
When: 4th – 6th August 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: MODA

The second set of dates for MODA, this gigantic fashion trade event showcases products for men and woman, footwear and accessories. Whether you are looking to catch up with existing suppliers, find new trends, attend business seminars or just network, MODA has the lot.

International Jewellery London
When: 1st – 3rd September 2019
Where: Olympia London
Website: International Jewellery London

Established in the 1950s, the International Jewellery London (IJL) event showcases the best of luxury materials, design and craftsmanship. It is the go-to annual destination for the best jewellery from around Britain, as well as leading brands from around the globe. Both new and established designers have their work exhibited at Olympia, and new trends are unveiled.

Looking to introduce new brands and ranges of jewellery to your business? You’ll find over 500 high-end jewellery manufacturers, designers, loose gemstone manufacturers and retail service suppliers in attendance. This is a perfect place for doing business or networking with other buyers and suppliers.

Autumn Fair
When: 1st – 4th September 2019
Where: NEC Birmingham
Website: Autumn Fair

Autumn Fair 2019 will feature a new layout, new sector and new outlook, and organisers promise it will be ‘the UK’s all-encompassing sourcing marketplace for the season’. There will be ten ‘carefully edited show sectors, including a brand-new hall for manufacturers, Sourcing Autumn Fair, and the show as always will offers the best products, launches and inspiration from over 1,300 UK and international exhibitors.

Scotland’s Trade Fair
When: 22nd – 23rd September 2019
Where: SEC Glasgow
Website: Scotland’s Trade Fair

At the September show, you’ll find the very best products from Scotland (and beyond) to help light up your shop for Christmas. Scotland’s Autumn Trade Fair takes place over two days and will have over 170 companies exhibiting thousands of products to 1500 trade buyers from department stores, multiples, mail-order, online, tourist attractions and independent retail outlets who attend the show.

The show incorporates Home and Gift products, Fashion and Accessories and the recently introduced section for Food and Drink companies specialising in products for the Christmas gift market, along with new start-up companies.

Olympia Beauty Show
When: 29th – 30th September 2019
Where: Olympia, London
Website: Olympia Beauty

Olympia Beauty is Autumn’s biggest beauty experience for professionals.

Established 15 years ago, Olympia Beauty brings the biggest and best beauty brands to London. Building on last year’s success that saw 19,817 beauty industry professionals descend on Olympia London to witness the most incredible beauty show, the show goes from strength to strength. Notable features including The Salon and Spa Owners’ Club, The Education Club, The Olympia Stage programme, The National Massage Championship, Nailympia London, Brush Wars, The Lash Games and so much more.

Strict age restriction of 16+

Professional Beauty North
When: 13th – 14th October 2019
Where: EventCity Manchester
Website: Professional Beauty North

Professional Beauty North promises exclusive trade only discounts and the chance to see what the latest trends in spa and salon products are. You can get your hands-on new products, compare prices and see live demonstrations all under one roof!

Professional Beauty North promises you a fantastic opportunity for trend spotting, inspiration, networking and learning, with your favourite brands and newcomers presenting their innovations and industry experts sharing their knowledge on the hottest industry topics. The special show rates and discounts will not be available anywhere else, so find everything you need – from skincare to nails, make-up to waxing, protect yous skin by under eye masks, tanning and beauty equipment right here – and source the perfect suppliers for your business.

Over to you

So which is your favourite? Any you make a point of attending? Are there any wholesale trade shows and fairs that we’ve missed out? If you’d like us to include one, please do let us know.