Following conversations with longstanding clients at this year’s event, Hale Events has confirmed that the 2026 Devon-based Giving & Living Trade Show was its last.
“This show has marked a significant chapter in the life of the gifting industry, Hale Events, and for me personally,” said Mike Anderson, Managing Director. 
While the gift and home market continues to grow, the way products reach consumers has changed dramatically over the past decade and accelerated since the pandemic. Many businesses now sell direct to consumers or combine consumer and trade sales, and online B2B platforms and marketplaces such as Amazon, Etsy, Faire, and Temu have become significant routes to market.
Mike added: “The show has taken place in the South West since 1965 and I have personally worked on the show for the last 37 years.
“We are immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. We would like to thank all the buyers and exhibitors that have supported this regional trade show over time. Every product has its life cycle.”
Pictured is Brian Lownds-Pateman of company Babbacombe Pottery. Brian first attended this trade show with his father, in 1970, when it took place in Torquay, Devon and Sales Manager, Paul Thomas presented him with a bottle of bubbly to recognise the extensive period that he has been involved.
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