Jeremy Corner, managing director of greeting card company Blue Eyed Sun, became the new chairman of The Giftware Association, with Gert Schyberg, managing director of home fragrancing company Sebnini, announced as vice chairman.
Speaking about his goals, Jeremy emphasised that, together with the team at the GA, he would be looking to steadily grow the membership though an improved website as well as looking for stronger engagement with current members and doing more with social media. “We will also be blogging and looking at a new CRM (customer relationship management) system which we will integrate with bringing value to members around the issues and areas that are important to them,” he highlighted.
Added Jeremy: “It is a great honour to be chairman of the GA, and I’m very excited to be working with the team and the national committee.”
Outgoing chairman Henri Davies, who becomes the GA’s deputy chairman, praised Jeremy’s marketing and social media skills, telling delegates that she was frequently asked what the most important achievements had been during her two year tenure.
“The thing I am most proud of are the Meet the Buyers events which epitomise everything the GA is about, helping members to be more successful in their businesses whether suppliers or retailers,” she confirmed. “Additionally, The Gift of the Year is another significant event for members to highlight their products to buyers across a wide spectrum of sectors.”
Clive Briscoe was appointed to the GA’s national committee, with Michael Pape, director, Ravensden, and Lindsey Adam, owner of Bonkers in St Andrews, both stepping down after 10 years.
Panel debates were held during the afternoon covering a wide range of topics to include compliance, GDPR, cybersecurity, CE marking and IP, the value of industry awards, routes to market, and advice on how members can future proofing their business.
Top: The new line up at the GA: GA chairman Jeremy Corner (centre), vice chairman Gert Schyberg (left) and deputy chairman Henri Davies.
