Reflecting on Top Drawer September 2024
Top Drawer September 2024 has just concluded this past weekend, I'm left reflecting on how impactful the event was for both our brand and the retail industry at large. This annual gathering is always a significant one, bringing together industry professionals, creative minds, and innovative brands. This year was no different, and as always, it was a privilege to attend such an inspiring event.
Setting the Scene
The energy at Top Drawer was palpable from the moment I arrived. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as new collections were presented, and a diverse range of exhibitors showcased their latest innovations. It was a joy to explore sectors like Gift, Home, Fashion & Jewellery, Play, Greetings & Stationery, Wellbeing, and the Food Emporium. The Launchpad area also offered a fascinating look at emerging trends and upcoming talent.
This year’s show highlighted some key trends that are set to shape the future of retail—clean lines, bold graphics, and confident colour choices were everywhere. Sustainability and conscious consumerism remained a major focus, underscoring the industry's continued shift toward eco-friendly practices.
My Key Insights from Top Drawer 2024
The curation of new brands at this year’s event was particularly striking. I was blown away by the creative and colourful displays, with so many unique products making their mark. A packed agenda of key talks also added incredible depth to the experience, offering something for everyone.
Certain brands really stood out for me. Toasted Crumpet, with its beautiful hand-drawn aesthetic, was a highlight. I also loved the modern style of Nephthys and the vibrant colours used at Donna Wilson. These brands exemplified the kind of innovation and creativity that makes Top Drawer such a dynamic event.
This year’s event felt even more engaging than previous editions. The attendees were enthusiastic, eager to network, and share ideas. The giant box prop was a fun addition that spurred social engagement throughout the event. I also noticed a shift in focus—there was more emphasis on gifting, stationery, and home accessories, with a larger presence of jewelry, particularly on the upper floor.
Several important trends are emerging that will influence the industry in the coming year. I noticed a strong movement toward clean lines, bold prints, and confident colour choices, all underpinned by a growing focus on sustainability. These trends are not only shaping product design but also influencing consumer behavior.
One of the most insightful sessions I attended was led by Louise Healy, co-founder of Better Trends. The discussion centered around how brands can align with trends that fit their values. It was a powerful reminder that not every trend is suitable for every brand—sometimes, the right strategy is to embrace a counter-trend that resonates more with your audience. This kind of strategic thinking will be crucial as we move forward.
The Importance of Networking and Building Connections
Top Drawer is always a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and reconnect with industry peers. It’s moments like these that remind me just how important it is to have real, in-person conversations—you never know where the next connection might lead.
We made several new connections this year, and there are at least four key contacts we’ll be following up with. Networking can be daunting, but it’s essential for growth. My advice? Plan your day in advance, make the most of the talks and networking spaces, and don’t hesitate to start conversations. The more you talk about what you do, the easier it becomes to create meaningful partnerships.
What Worked Well and Areas for Improvement
For Threads Creatives, we made a few strategic changes this year that paid off. After trying digital business cards in the past, we returned to physical handouts, and they were a hit. There’s something about the tangible that people still appreciate. We also produced a small info handout this year, which was well received by attendees.
Looking ahead, I think there’s scope to improve the layout of the event. The upper floor, where the trend area was located, could benefit from a larger space to drive more traffic. With so much creativity and innovation on display, it’s worth ensuring that all exhibitors get the attention they deserve.
The Future of Retail and Trade Shows
One thing that’s become clear is that trade shows like Top Drawer are evolving. In recent years, we’ve seen a reduction in exhibitor numbers, but I believe there’s an opportunity to reimagine these events. Moving forward, trade shows need to offer more than just product displays. They need to focus on networking, knowledge-sharing, and providing platforms for brand presentations. This will help maintain interest and drive attendance.
Looking into the future, I see digital integration playing an increasingly important role in trade shows. Sustainability will remain a key theme, and I expect global participation to rise, making these events even more diverse and impactful. Technology will shape these experiences, and I’m excited to see how that unfolds in future editions of Top Drawer.
Final Thoughts
Top Drawer September 2024 was a fantastic experience, filled with creativity, innovation, and valuable connections. The insights we gained will undoubtedly influence how we approach our brand strategy and development in the coming year.
If you want to see more behind-the-scenes content from Top Drawer and stay updated with our latest insights, be sure to follow Threads Creatives on social media.