Signare founder and director Cindy Qiu talks to Gifts Today about the company’s ever-evolving portfolio, from tapestry patterns to licensing partnerships
What types of products does Signare offer?
Signare offers a diverse range of woven tapestry products, including handbags, backpacks, wallets, cushions, and other accessories such as licensed umbrellas, scarves, and home decor.
Each showcases the brand’s unique tapestry patterns inspired by art, nature, and cultural motifs. Our products are stocked in our UK and US warehouses, providing a fast and secure way for our 2,000 trade customers worldwide to receive their orders.
What sets Signare apart from other tapestry suppliers?
Licensing and innovation. Signare stands out for its owned signature tapestry designs that celebrate heritage and culture. We’re also proud of our licensing partnerships with V&A, Beatrix Potter, Paddington Bear, The British Museum… we currently hold 10-plus licences from world-famous museums, galleries, and characters.
Which licences have been business-changing?
We signed the Paddington licence in 2022 and our original Paddington Design launched in January 2023. In 2023 we achieved 23% growth, followed by a further 29% growth in 2024. Paddington has sold in every retail sector and offers great value for money with a collection of bags and accessories retailing between £5 and £30. The other general retail licence we have is Peter Rabbit, which again sells well throughout the UK.
In the heritage sector, our biggest-selling licence is the British Museum, with the Chinoiserie Design becoming a great success following its launch in January 2024.
What’s the hot news?
The new Paddington movie was announced to licensees in Spring 2024 which has been very challenging, as we had to bring a whole collection to market in less than six months. We did it though, with stock arriving in September in time to be in-store ahead of the film premiere on November 8.
The Paddington Marmalade Collection is a fun colourful design with a slant towards back-to-school. New additions for 2025 will be a picnic rug, beach bag, and travel bag (ideal for holidays).
We had a great Home & Gift for the Marmalade Collection with our order book for launch 52% sold. We will feature it at Autumn Fair for delivery before the end of September. I see us selling out before Christmas, if not before the movie’s launch.
Any notable licensing plans for 2025?
Absolutely. We’re launching ‘Birth Place of Harry Potter’ in conjunction with gift shop chain Museum Context. There will be four to five stunning designs launching in January 2025 for delivery in early March 2025. We also aim to launch a new British Museum Collection, and further co-operation with County Durham-based artist Claire Louise, who has designed a fabulous ‘Music Collection’ for us.
What’s next for Signare?
The future holds exciting possibilities, with continued collaborations, new releases, and innovative designs. Stay tuned for more woven tapestry wonders as we continue to weave stories into every piece we create.
Excitingly, Signare embraces eco-friendly practices with a commitment to using recyclable materials in our products. Our dedication to sustainability extends to every aspect of our brand, ensuring that customers can enjoy stylish accessories with a positive impact on the environment. Signare also aims to bring the best quality and storytelling gifts to the world.
Stand: 6F16
Call: 01276 29483
Email: info@signaretrade.co.uk
Visit: www.signaretrade.co.uk
