It’s going to be a nail-biting time for the 28 finalists shortlisted inTop Drawer’s annual PaperAwards, with the winners announced prior to the show which takes place from September 8-10 at London’s Olympia.
In a first for the competition, now in its seventh year, the number of shortlisted entries in all categories has been extended, with seven companies per category – Best Stationery Design, Exciting Use of Colour, Emotive Design and Engaging Print– instead of six finalists as with previous years, thanks to the calibre of entries that so impressed the judges.
“The PaperAwards have become a highly respected and effective initiative to recognise and support incredible publishers and designers, giving them exposure to the very best retailers at the show, as well as through our marketing and communication channels,” commented Top Drawer show director Alejandra Campos. “The entries this season were some of our most exciting yet and I’m thrilled for retailers to see the exciting Greetings & Stationery offer at the show this September.”
The stellar line-up of judges included two Greats Honorary Achievement winners – independent retail adviser and buyer Henri Davis, and David Hicks, founder and managing director of Really Good/Soul – along with Oliver Bonas, NotOnTheHighStreet, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason, The Design Museum, Waterstones, Paperchase and Heals.
Members of the retail industry are currently being asked to vote for their favourite entries by visiting the Top Drawer website www.topdrawer.co.uk
All finalists will have their work showcased in Top Drawer’s Greetings & Stationery area, with each winner receiving a prize worth more than £1000.
Top: UWP’s Luxe Staircases & Archways is among the finalists in the PaperAwards Best Stationery Design category.