The latest issue of Progressive Party magazine is available to read online now.
You may have noticed that the world of party is now readying itself for Halloween 2023. We’re hearing plans for the opening of Spirit Halloween in the US, as well as sneak peeks of this year’s animatronic ranges, and new releases being unveiled.
But at the very beginning of the summer holidays, Halloween seems a lifetime away. As an industry we’ve already experienced some events providing welcome boosts in sales this summer. The sun shone on Glastonbury and thousands attended the Harry Styles and Elton John tours over recent weeks, which all provided some unconventional opportunities for dress-up retailers (think feather boas and sparkly jumpsuits). And now the Barbie Movie mania is taking over retail, providing some welcome party themes for the coming months and beyond.
Reacting to those sometimes unexpected trends is something that Funiglobal prides itself on. We chatted to ceo Carlos Larraz in this issue to find out how data and analysis are at the heart of the business and how the strategy, along with a large portion of licensing, has helped it grow to a €26 million company in just 12 years. His online only model may push the boundaries of the traditional party market, but it’s working well so far.
Elsewhere in the issue, we hear from the National Costumers Association’s Ed Avis, who is offering tips for retailers to make the most out of the all-important Halloween season; while we find out more about Jelle van der Zwet in the executive profile.
For a special roundtable feature, PPE sat down with some key figures from the industry to discuss sustainability and how the party sector is navigating the issue, how it’s affecting both retailer and consumer buying decisions, and what the challenges are for party businesses.
There’s also a focus on group costumes as the hen and stag do season continues, and a closer look at licensing in the party industry, including trends, hot properties, and more, and finally we take a look at christenings and gender reveals.
Our next issue is the annual Progressive Halloween edition and we would love to hear from you about all things scary as we ready for the industry’s moment in the spotlight. So do get in touch with Katie katierm@max-publishing.co.uk or Rob robw@max-publishing.co.uk if you’d like to get involved, and as always, keep us up to date with all of your news, views and insights. We love to hear from you.
