Spring Fair 2027

Last Updated News & Insights

Spring Fair, the UK’s largest retail trade event for home, gift and fashion, returns to the NEC Birmingham from 7–10 February 2027.

For over 75 years, the show has been a key destination for product discovery, industry networking and new business opportunities, bringing the retail community together ahead of the season.

With more than 1,500 exhibitors and 40,000 visitors, Spring Fair provides a powerful platform for brands to increase visibility, launch new collections and connect with buyers from across the retail industry.  

GCA Debut Pavilion

Offering a platform for Greeting Card Association members new to exhibiting, the GCA Debut Pavilion is a springboard for emerging greeting card businesses to introduce their products to the industry.

If you are exhibiting at Spring Fair for the first time do look at the GCA Debut area where there is a discount for GCA members exhibiting for the first time. All the GCA Debut stands are 3m x 1m or 4m x 1m traditional shell schemes with white wooden walls. The package includes carpet, Name board with your name and stand number printed and 3 x spotlights. This special package is not available on stands outside this area.

GCA Lounge

Step into the GCA Lounge and immerse yourself in the joy of sending cards! Our lounge offers a cosy meeting space and a refreshing breakout area away from your stand and perfect for networking.

Exhibiting at Spring Fair

If you have already booked your space at this show do read your exhibitors pack and make sure you have completed all your company details, and the contact information you wish to appear on your online profile and the official show app. Also ensure you are taking advantage of all the marketing opportunities, including social media graphics and invites to the show (accessed via the Exhibitor Zone).

Hyve Tips to enhance your stand without using paint

Changes in the contractor agreement mean that exhibitors need to pay for repainting of the stands. To avoid this extra cost the Spring Fair team at Hyve have shared these tips for GCA members:

  • Wallpaper, craft paper, murals and lightweight materials, such as cardboard, can be stapled to the wooden panels to fill part or all of your stand space. Cards can then be attached to these coverings and this look can be enhanced by using frames.
  • Vinyl stickers/branding can be stuck to the panels to create interest.
  • Many brands have their logo made from 3D lettering, made from foamex, laser cut wood or printed onto a shape/box (all above eye level). These are a great sustainable option that can be re-used at future shows.
  • Coloured shelves can add visual interest.
  • Many brands bring individual display pieces which showcase their brand and personality including frames, bunting, bespoke furniture.
  • Brands can enhance their stand by using vinyl flooring, available in different patterns, coloured carpet and even artificial grass
  • With new brands joining the show, we always recommend to dress your stand as if you had a pop up in a retail space for 4 days.
  • Show your brand, your personality and be memorable!  

The Spring Fair 2027 Exhibitor Zone and Online Manual is where you’ll find information relating to your exhibition stand (including specifications of the Traditional Shell Scheme wooden panels and weight restrictions), as well as how to order any additional items and forms to be completed ahead of the show.  If you have any questions before, please contact your Account Manager.  

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