After a nail-biting few months, the shortlist for this year’s Gift of the Year competition, organised by The Giftware Association (GA), has been announced, with entries judged by a panel of over 120 judges.
For the full shortlist and updates on the competition, visit www.giftoftheyear.co.uk.
“We received an overwhelming number of entries this year, with over 900 received,” confirmed The Giftware Association’s PR and marketing manager Chris Workman. “Over 230 brands took part, with over 100 new to the awards. It’s been a bumper year with lots of new exciting brands and also lots of exciting new products too, with the shortlist slightly bigger this year to allow more brands to shine.”
He continued: “The general consensus from the first round of judging is that there were some amazing products entered with the judging very tough. The new categories have been very well received too, with Made in The UK one of the top categories this year. All entries showcased the creativity, innovation, and quality of the home and gift industry. Our panel of judges has carefully reviewed the first round of submissions to select the very best products in each category.”
Chris highlighted that the shortlisted entries represent “the most exciting, unique, and commercially viable products in the industry. The judges have been judging for three weeks, with many reporting that it has been one of the toughest years yet as the standard of products has greatly increased with so many great products to choose from.”
The next stage for the shortlisted products is the highly anticipated live judging round, which will take place at Spring Fair (2-5 February, NEC), for the fourth consecutive year.
“This gives judges the opportunity to see, touch, and experience the products in person,” explained Chris. “The event also provides a platform for shortlisted products to gain visibility among thousands of buyers, retailers, and industry professionals attending the show, alongside the exciting Gift of the Year pavilionfeaturing brands for the awards, allowing them to showcase their products to a massive audience at one of the biggest shows in the home and giftware world.”
Winners will be revealed at The Gift Awards 2025, alongside the winners of The Greats gift retailer awards, a prestigious black-tie ceremony taking place at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on 15 May 2025. This event will unite the industry, celebrating the finest products and recognising the hard work of the brands and suppliers that make the home and giftware world so vibrant.
“The Gift of the Year competition has always been about celebrating the creativity and passion within our industry,” stated Chris. “We wish all entrants the best of luck and look forward to honouring their efforts at the Gift Awards in May.”
