Sebnini’s founder Gert Schyberg has kicked off his two year tenure as chairman of the Giftware Association with a clear vision to help to take the Association onwards and upwards.
“As chairman I look forward to continuing to support the excellent work done by our ceo Sarah Ward and her team at The Giftware Association HQ,” he told GiftsandHome.net. “I recognise the immense value the GA offers and the vast potential the Gift of the Year Awards and Meet the Buyer initiatives hold.
“Therefore my priorities over the next years are to expand these offerings while continuing to be the industry’s trusted partner for regulatory information, best practice webinars and other educational programmes. I also look forward to welcoming new members to the GA while finding ways to maximise our value, support and advice for existing members.”
Looking to the challenges ahead, Gert says that Brexit and Covid-19 are obvious areas of concern for the industry. “The high street of the future may look very different and it will be up to us to look past the challenges that present themselves to identify the opportunities for growth and success. We are fortunate to have an industry full of bright, talented and creative thinkers who offer not just fantastic products to the market but also an intuitive understanding of buyers and their needs. While shopping practices may change, the desire to give gifts will not and I have full confidence in our industry and in a bright future ahead for us all.”
For the past two years, Gert has been the GA’s vice chairman, and has been an active member of the GA’s National Committee for the past eight years. He also sits on the board of the British Allied Trade Federation (BATF) that oversees the Giftware Association and other trade bodies.
He takes over from Blue Eyed Sun’s Jeremy Corner who becomes deputy chairman.
“I would like to personally welcome Gert into the role of chairman,” comments the GA’s Sarah Ward. “Gert has been a valued and respected member of our committee for a number of years so to have him our helm is fantastic for the association and its future.”
Top: GA chairman Gert Schyberg.
