The British Craft Directory (BCD) has announced a new partnership with Associated Independent Stores (AIS), that will see a British Craft branded zone at the INDX Gift Edit: a brand-new trade event launching on May 19 2026 at Cranmore Park in Solihull.
Cranmore Park is a conference, event, and exhibition venue, where AIS regularly hosts a series of successful trade events under the INDX Shows umbrella across different retail sectors, from furniture and homeware to flooring and fashion.
AIS director of events Jane Bartlett said: “We have listened to the industry and are creating an event that is both commercially focused and inspiring, offering a fresh perspective and a valuable opportunity for both established and emerging brands to present their products.
She added: “We are delighted to be partnering with the British Craft Directory which will not only bring a strong ‘British Made’ focus to the show, but also allow us to showcase independent artisans and rising stars alongside some of the gift industry’s leading brands. We are already taking stand bookings for what promises to be an unmissable Midlands destination for all gift retailers. So watch this space for our exhibitor line-up reveal, coming soon!”
BCD founder Denre Bruins commented: “With an average of 94% of exhibitors writing business during INDX shows, we believe this is a great opportunity for our members and other companies seeking an affordable trade event. It’s also a fantastic chance to connect with quality, pre-vetted retailers, and meet with AIS members who represent some of the UK and Ireland’s leading independent department stores and garden centres.
“The organising team have confirmed to us that a very significant proportion of AIS members would like to stock more British-made goods, especially if those goods are also made locally. British Craft Directory is uniquely placed to reach thousands of authentic designer-makers working around the UK and to help connect them with the right retail buyers in their area and beyond.”
The INDX Gift Edit has come up with a highly competitive opening package for British designer-makers who want to join BCD and participate in this exciting launch event. For further details of this offer, email Denre at
contact@britishcraftdirectory.co.uk
or call 07725 181974.
https://britishcraftdirectory.co.uk