Top Drawer is delighted to announce Ben Langworthy Paper Goods as the winner of the Autumn/Winter 2018 Spotted Award.
Spotted is Top Drawer’s curated showcase of innovative, market ready, design-based businesses new to the major UK trade fair market. Since its inception, Spotted has helped to launch over 200 small businesses and is now firmly established as one of the show’s main attractions.
All new brands accepted into the September 2018 edition of Spotted at Top Drawer Autumn were eligible, and entries were judged by a panel made up of the following industry experts: Annabelle Dodds, Senior Buyer at the V&A; Charlotte Abrahams, Spotted Curator; Dan Flower, owner of AIM Brands; Johnathan Brown, Founder of Cult Vinegar; Nicki Sloan, Founder & MD of Cubic Products Ltd and Sophie Hughes, PR & Brand Marketing Manager of West Elm.
The brands were judged on originality and innovation, commercial viability, clarity of brand, communication of message and the overall quality of their products.
Spotted Award Winner: Ben Langworthy Paper Goods
Ben Langworthy makes vintage-inspired paper goods featuring strong colours and typography, underpinned by his belief in the special importance of a hand-written note. He hand-draws all his designs using traditional techniques, and everything is printed in the U.K. His cut out cards – which can be cut and folded to make a miniature model – are particularly special.
Judges’ comments
“This collection brought a smile to my face, such charm and an ode to the traditions of snail mail!”
“His cohesive product range and look, coupled with his fun and innovative cut out cards, is terrific.”
Spotted Award Runner Up: Finfo Design
Finfo Design makes illustrated tableware featuring people from all corners of the world with the aim of promoting friendship and conversation. The designs are created with ink finger prints and brush strokes.
Judge’s comments
“A charming product range with a distinct identity.”
“This collection feels very contemporary – there’s a real sense of the maker’s hand and the concept resonates with current issues in a light hearted way.”
Spotted Award runner up: Roadscents
Roadscents is a French perfumed car fragrance. Designed to be a luxury impulse buy, Roadscents is a take on the traditional hanging cardboard fragrances featuring witty designs, luxury packaging and high quality, French-made perfume.
Judge’s comments
“A much-needed, design-led alternative to the usual car fragrances.”
“A clear concept with great branding
Judges also gave special mention to Playroom Interiors for their stand design, as well as shortlisted brands and Hirsch & Kirsch and Kesemy Design.
Spotted was established to help emerging brands at a crucial stage in their development and the prizes reflect that mission. The winner will receive a free stand at Top Drawer and all three finalists will be rewarded with one-to-one mentoring from six industry experts: Dan Flower, Owner AIM Brands; Ged Mace, MD The Art File; Kirpal Bharaj, Co-Founder of Spotted Award Winner Spring/Summer 2018 Stay Sixty; Lorna Syson, Print Designer; Rosie Wolfenden MBE, Co-Founder & Director Tatty Divine and Sharon Good, MD of Good Results PR.
All the winning brands can be seen at Spotted at Top Drawer Autumn from 9th – 11th September 2018.
Charlotte Abrahams, Spotted’s curator, says “All three winners are making considered, original products that will enhance the lives of those who buy them. I am thrilled that the Spotted Award will help them take their brands forward.”
With a unique selection of over 1,000 design-led lifestyle brands and thousands of new products across nine curator sectors, Top Drawer offers buyers a one-stop shop to source from the very best brands and up-coming names; as well as the perfect and most inspiring environment to learn about retail business, network and discover the latest trends.
The next edition of Top Drawer will take place at Olympia London from 9 – 11 September 2018. Buyers can register for their complimentary passes at topdrawer.co.uk