Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60SPRING//SUMMER 2017 17 16 SPRING//SUMMER 2017 What attracted you to the UK High Street? The UK market is one of the most interesting in the stationery and gifts industry. It’s a market with a very long history which values tradition but at the same time is open to new design and really appreciates quality. Our mission is to bring craftsmanship and heritage with a twist of colour to the UK and we strongly believe we can’t pursue this without our own stores. What did you look for in a store location? London itself attracted us as it is a vibrant and trendy spot where we’re sure our customers are shopping. Are there plans to open other UK stores/concessions? There are plans for both stores and concessions at the most representative department stores. Developing the wholesale side - our customers also shop in top department stores and concept stores such as Conran and Fortnum & Mason - perfectly matches with our strategy of bringing our product to market. In addition, as per our history as manufacturers, we’re also targeting the b2b market offering Fabriano tailor-made products. Who is your target market? Fabriano Boutique is for people who love quality, craftsmanship, heritage and colour. It’s no longer just about notebooks; it’s a lifestyle brand. In a fast-paced world, we offer customers the chance to take time to learn unique techniques such as calligraphy by running classes. Fabriano Boutique’s design aesthetic? Colour, heritage, being environmentally friendly (acid- and chlorine-free paper; FSC paper and our brand new collection of cruelty- free backpacks and folding pencil case made with wood) and luxury at an affordable price. Has Britain’s decision to leave the EU affected the market? So far I’d say that the weaker GBP drove many tourists back to the UK and it has been positive for our store. How many Smiggle stores in the UK currently? We have over 90 stores in the UK now, with more in the pipeline. What attracted Smiggle to the British High Street? The UK market, which is very similar to Australia, clearly has the appetite for Smiggle. We believed it was crying out for a brand with our product range, quality, price point and in-store experience. Who is your target market? We know Smigglers of all ages! But the majority are between 7 and 14. Smiggle’s design aesthetic? The brand’s products are focused on bold colour, quirky graphics, good value and innovation. Designs are refreshed monthly to make each trip to Smiggle exciting. Are online Smiggle sales growing in the UK too? Our shops are very much about the in-store experience where customers can play with our interactive products, but we believe it’s all about how you co-exist with online, offering customers the convenience of shopping when (and however) it suits them. Has Britain’s decision to leave the EU affected the market? People will always want to treat their kids so we have not noticed any impact on consumer confidence. Claudio Dall’Era, general manager, Fabriano Boutique John Cheston, managing director, Smiggle Smiggle, Light up shimmer book safe Smiggle, Scented BFF shimmer slapband Fabriano Boutique, multifunctional elastic band Fabriano Boutique, multicoloured folder