In this episode of the Retail Insights, host Felicity Harris sits down with Deryane Tadd, founder of St Alban’s The Dressing Room, an award-winning independent boutique and perhaps one of the UK’s most inspiring retail success stories.

Deryane shares how her passion for retail turned into a 20-year journey defined by creativity, determination, and resilience.

She opens up about how The Dressing Room grew from a single boutique into a thriving brand that blends in-store and online retail, and how she overcame a devastating cyber-attack that nearly wiped out her business, rebuilding it stronger than ever.

Key Topics Covered:

· The story behind The Dressing Room’s 20-year success.

· Overcoming major challenges, including a cyber-attack and market disruption.

· Building customer loyalty through authenticity and experience.

· How independents can stay relevant in a changing retail landscape.

If you’re a small business owner, retailer, or anyone passionate about resilience, innovation, and the independent retail community, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Retail Insights Podcast, host Felicity is joined by Charlotte Broadbent, UK General Manager at Faire, and Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director at Hyve Group, to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing independent retailers today.

From navigating supply chain disruptions to adapting to shifting consumer demands, they explore how independents can stay competitive in an evolving retail landscape. With insights on values-based buying, smart decision-making, and the power of community-driven retail, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways for retailers looking to future-proof their businesses.

Key Topics Covered:

• How consumer expectations are shifting—and what it means for independents.
• Strategies for staying agile and making smart buying decisions.
• The role of technology and data in helping retailers grow.
• Why values-based shopping is creating new opportunities for small businesses.

If you're an independent retailer looking to adapt, grow, and succeed in 2025 and beyond, this episode is a must-listen!

Join Jeff Banks in this insightful and inspiring episode of Retail Insight, recorded live at the Spring Fair—celebrating its 75th year as the UK’s largest trade fair. Jeff sits down with Mike Winch, the entrepreneurial force behind Candlelight, who reflects on his remarkable journey of 53 years exhibiting at the Spring Fair.

From humble beginnings crafting candles in a kitchen with just £20 to building a global business spanning the UK, Hong Kong, and China, Mike shares pivotal moments, lessons learned, and the passion that fuels his work. Discover how Candlelight evolved through challenges, including the early days of misspelled signs and bank pressures, to becoming a thriving family-run empire now guided by Mike’s son and daughter.

The conversation delves into the changing face of retail, the importance of supporting independent retailers, and why trade fairs remain a cornerstone of business success. Mike emphasizes the value of fostering relationships with employees, suppliers, and customers while shedding light on his continued drive to innovate, mentor, and stay active in business.

A must-watch for entrepreneurs, retailers, and anyone passionate about the resilience and future of independent businesses.

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks chats with Amanda Peffer, founder of the award-winning children's clothing brand Blade & Rose. Amanda shares the inspiring story of how her frustration with bland babywear led to the creation of her vibrant and innovative brand, which celebrates crawling nappy bottoms with colorful and stretchy designs.
 
 From humble beginnings in her Lake District home to winning Gift of the Year and building an ethical, sustainable business, Amanda offers insights into her 14-year journey. She reflects on the importance of staying true to Blade & Rose’s bright and playful ethos while adapting to changing consumer expectations, including sustainability and ethical production.
 
 Amanda also highlights the pivotal role of Spring Fair in growing her business, from introducing new designs to connecting with loyal and new customers. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at Blade & Rose’s success story and the evolving world of children’s fashion.
 
 For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Ray Qudos, Consultant at  Keplin, one of the UK’s fastest-growing direct-to-consumer brands. Ray shares Keplin's remarkable journey from a student startup to a thriving £30M business, highlighting their innovative approach to affordability, sustainability, and brand development.
 
 Ray also discusses the pivotal role of Spring Fair in their expansion strategy, offering insights into their first-ever exhibit and how the event supports their growth domestically and internationally. From the launch of their new luggage brand Lugg to Keplin’s vision for a hybrid trade show future, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs and retailers alike.
 
 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on scaling a modern retail business, navigating supply chain challenges, and adapting to evolving consumer expectations. For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Evan Lewis, founder of sustainable stationery brand VENT for Change. Evan shares his inspiring journey as an environmental entrepreneur, starting with surplus recycled pencils and evolving into a socially conscious brand that funds global education projects.

Evan also highlights the importance of in-person connections at trade fairs, the impact of sustainability in retail, and how Spring Fair helps expand VENT for Change’s reach, both domestically and internationally. Packed with insights, this episode celebrates purpose-driven business and the power of storytelling in retail.

Tune in for an engaging conversation about sustainability, innovation, and the retail industry's evolving landscape. For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

In this episode of Retail Insights, host Jeff Banks sits down with Craig Wensley, the creative force behind DCUK, to explore the whimsical world of wooden ducks and the enduring appeal of Spring Fair. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Spring Fair remains the UK’s largest trade exhibition, and for Craig, it’s a must-attend event.

Craig shares the fascinating journey of DCUK, from its humble beginnings with Indonesian furniture to crafting over 300 charming duck designs that bring smiles to customers worldwide. Discover how each duck is carefully hand-painted, designed to spark joy, and even personalised to resonate with individual interests and hobbies.

Packed with insights into creativity, team collaboration, and the art of making people smile, this episode is a delightful listen for anyone in retail or looking to grow a unique brand.

For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

In this episode of Retail Insight, host Jeff Banks sits down with Adriana Lovesy from the Greeting Card Association to explore the unique and enduring appeal of handwritten greeting cards in a digital world. Adriana shares her memories of Spring Fair and explains how this iconic event has supported greeting card businesses for decades, from small startups to established publishers.

This episode is perfect for retailers, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the power of personal touch in business. Discover how Spring Fair continues to be a magical platform for innovation, networking, and staying ahead in today’s retail landscape.

For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

Don’t miss this episode packed with inspiration and insights into the greeting card industry and the timeless magic of Spring Fair. Subscribe for more expert advice on thriving in the world of retail!

In this episode of Retail Insight, Sarah Ward, CEO of the Giftware Association, joins us to share her insider’s perspective on the dynamic world of giftware. Sarah dives into her unique role supporting businesses of all sizes, highlighting the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and advocacy in navigating today’s retail challenges.

From tackling industry-wide issues like late payments and high business rates to embracing sustainability and trends shaping the future of retail, Sarah’s insights are both practical and inspiring. She also reflects on the vibrant energy of Spring Fair, sharing her passion for exploring every aisle and discovering the creativity that defines the event.

This episode is a must-watch for retailers, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about the giftware sector. Gain valuable advice and fresh ideas to help your business thrive, straight from one of the industry’s most respected leaders.

For more information on how Spring Fair can support your business, visit www.springfair.com.

Subscribe now for more episodes filled with expert advice, industry trends, and the stories that drive success in retail!

In celebration of Spring Fair's 75th anniversary, Jeff Banks talks with retail expert Stephen Spencer about the future of retail. Discover how to create value-driven experiences, blend online and in-person shopping, and embrace sustainability to engage customers and elevate brands. 

Listen in to hear how Stephen’s team reimagines retail spaces, builds authentic connections through storytelling, and helps businesses turn creativity into impactful customer experiences. A must-listen for retail innovators!