Reflections from Spring Fair 2026

Spring Fair 2026 at the NEC Birmingham offered a broad view of how gifting, home and lifestyle categories continue to evolve, bringing together a large mix of established brands and newer names across these sectors. Spending time on the floor gave us the chance to reconnect with brands we work closely with and to see their ranges presented within wider retail contexts — always a useful reminder of how products sit within real‑world assortments. The show also provided a steady flow of new introductions, reflecting the variety that Spring Fair is known for as one of the UK’s key trade events in these categories.

Among the themes that stood out to us, apothecary‑inspired design remained notably visible, with amber glass continuing to be a familiar and reassuring material choice for brands looking to convey a classic and premium feel. We also saw home fragrance taking a more prominent position across gifting and lifestyle ranges, suggesting continued growth in scent‑led products and the creativity that surrounds them. Together, these observations painted a clear picture: Spring Fair continues to be a valuable barometer for how brands are shaping their ranges for the year ahead — steady, design‑led, and increasingly mindful of the role packaging plays in creating a cohesive impression on the shelf.