Louise Welsby, managing director of creative agency Buy-From, has taken over the role as Chair of The Giftware Association for the next two years. Former Chair Gert Schyberg, founder of Sebnini, steps into the Deputy Chair role, while Mark Jones from Gisela Graham becomes Vice Chair.
“It’s an honour to be the new Chair of the Giftware Association, the first service provider in the Association’s 75-year history to take on the role,” states Louise, who received her chain of office from Gert at The Giftware Association’s AGM held earlier this week (June 22) at its Birmingham HQ.
“I’m looking forward to continuing the excellent stewardship of Gert Schyberg and am keen to get to work on supporting the GA with new initiatives, including the development of the digital marketing and educational benefits,” Louise enthused.
The GA welcomed two new members to the National Committee ranks, both of whom bring a wealth of knowledge and experience. Widdop & Co’s commercial director Stephen Illingworth will offer the Association invaluable knowledge and support, while Tabi Marsh, owner of gift shop Papilio at Heritage in Thornbury, will provide an important retail perspective on future projects.
Blue Eyed Sun’s founder and managing director Jeremy Corner, a former Chair, stood down from the National Committee and was warmly thanked for his many years of service and support.
During the AGM, there were talks from three members, who each shared their incredible business journeys so far: Claire Harris, founder of Talking Tables; Demi Pendakis, founder of FYG (Find Your Glow) and Paul Sun, co-founder of Gingko.
Commented The Giftware Association’s ceo Sarah Ward: “The day was fantastic. It was great to meet new and familiar faces, and also, to welcome the changeover in the National Committee. We wanted the day to be a bit different from a formal AGM and we succeeded in making that happen and connecting a lot of people.”
Despite the rail strikes, GA members, to include suppliers, retailers and service providers, braved the travel chaos to attend.
The minutes of the meeting and yearly report are available on the BATF website and can be found here.
Top: From left to right: Deputy Chair Gert Schyberg, newly appointed Chair Louise Welsby and outgoing National Committee member Jeremy Corner are shown at The Giftware Association’s AGM on June 22.
