Four exciting days at NEC Birmingham have seen the successful conclusion of Source Home & Gift, the UK’s premier international responsible sourcing show. The show, which was co-located with Spring Fair, brought together artisan producers, top manufacturers, and global sourcing specialists, providing consumers with an unmatched opportunity to find premium, ethically produced goods.
The event welcomed thousands of visitors, including buyers from major retailers such as John Lewis, Sainsburys, Wayfair, Morrisons, TJX, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research, Costco, Fenwick, RSPCA, Scribbler, Laura Ashley, Barnardo’s, British Garden Centres, V&A, PepsiCo, House of Marbles, The Essence Vault, Vinegar Hill, The Apple Orchard, and Countryside Feeders. With over 160 exhibitors from more than 12 countries, the show provided a diverse and comprehensive sourcing experience across homewares, gifts, furniture, textiles, toys, stationery, greetings, and technology.
Maryam Rashid, Associate EU SRM – Home Décor from Wayfair said, “These trade shows are pivotal in helping us understand the products we offer and advance our supplier relationships. In light of this, I’m happy to say the team and I had a successful day and found that we were able to navigate through the halls easily to attend all our supplier meetings. We also appreciated the existence of the Buyer’s Lounge, as this served as a useful meeting point for us to use and touch base after each discussion.”
A Platform for Innovation and Sustainability
Along with significant presence from India, China, Taiwan, Peru, Nepal, Pakistan, Hong Kong, and the UK, the 2025 edition highlighted new sourcing markets. One of the main attractions was the recently opened Egyptian Pavilion, which provided buyers with affordable and sustainable sourcing options from producers who met international labor and sustainability standards like BSCI, WRAP, and OEKO-TEX certifications.
Taiwan displayed innovative eco-friendly packaging and bamboo pottery, while the Indian Pavilion, in collaboration with the Handloom Export Promotion Council, highlighted India’s remarkable textile sector. Customers were moved by Peruvian business Sumaq Qara’s moral approach to handwoven fabrics, which complemented the event’s emphasis on sustainability and locally produced crafts.
New Features Drive Engagement
The Ask the Experts campaign, which made its debut in 2025, was a huge success and gave guests immediate access to top experts in the field for tailored business guidance. Important subjects like sourcing tactics, private label creation, social media expansion, sustainable storytelling, and regulatory compliance were discussed by experts. With packed sessions conducted by retail professionals from Retail 100, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), PepsiCo, and the British Independent Retailers’ Association (BIRA), among others, the feature received an amazing reaction.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of BIRA, praised the show’s diverse and innovative exhibitors, stating: “I’m incredibly impressed by the wealth of creativity and responsible sourcing options available at Source Home & Gift. The stories behind these products and the commitment to sustainability are truly inspiring. This event is an essential platform for retailers looking to align with global sourcing trends.”
A Positive Reception from Exhibitors and Buyers
As exhibitors reported exceptional levels of buyer engagement and interest, the exhibition floor was a hive of activity.
Craft Asia Exports
Maninder Singh, CEO of Craft Asia Exports, shared his enthusiasm: “The quality of buyers has been exceptional, and the international reach is fantastic. We’re committed to attending Source Home & Gift twice a year, every year.”
Solutions International
Sarah Long, UK Sales Director at Solution International, added: “This event has provided us with invaluable market insights and connections. It’s been an excellent opportunity to showcase our products and engage with retailers who truly appreciate quality craftsmanship.”
Event Director’s Reflections
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Suzanne Ellingham
Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director of Source Home & Gift, reflected on the success of the show, stating: “It’s been incredible to see the industry come together in such a meaningful way. Our goal has always been to provide retailers and brands with access to high-quality, responsibly made products, and this show has truly delivered. The energy on the show floor has been fantastic, we have seen the reaction from some of the UK’s biggest buying teams, who are finding what they are looking for, and a few things they weren’t. I’m excited to see the connections and collaborations that will emerge from this week.”
Looking Ahead
As this year’s event draws to a conclusion, Source Home & Gift is solidifying its standing as the premier responsible sourcing gathering in the UK. In September 2025, the expo will return, offering buyers even more chances to network with manufacturers around the world, find innovative products, and learn from professionals about the future of retail sourcing.
For more information and to register interest for the next show, visit www.source-homeandgift.com.
