Retailers breathe life into crafting

Peterborough retailers Create and Craft has joined forces with Hobbycraft in an effort to re-ignite the creative market. The two have put together a joint sourcing strategy. The sessions will allow designers and companies big and small to promote their wares with the opportunity of getting their products instore and on TV. Tony Sheridan of TV shopping channel Create and Craft, based in Newark Road, said: “The creative industry thrives on newness. “Today there is a distinct lack of innovative product that makes it to the mass market. “Create and Craft’s exciting collaboration with Hobbycraft will give the opportunity for product designers and developers of all sizes to pitch their product to the two largest retailers in the industry at the same time, fast tracking decisions and benefiting from the efficiencies of scale.” Kate Poulter, commercial director at Hobbycraft, said: “We understand how hard it is for new designers and producers to get their products to market. “This opportunity can give them access to connect to the UK crafter through our 87 stores and online business..”