City News

The UK’s largest international fashion accessories fair is returning to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry for the third successive year.

Chic, which attracts exhibitors from across Europe, is coming back to the £113 million venue between January 20-23 in 2008.

The most fashionable handbags, travel goods, briefcases, scarves, suitcases, belts, jewellery, umbrellas and fashion accessories will be on sale in the Jaguar Exhibition Hall.

Ray Greenhalgh, managing director of organisers M&S Exhibition Services, said the twice-yearly event was always a must-attend on the calendar of every fashionista.

“We already have 120 exhibitors signed up for the trade exhibition and they are travelling from Holland, Belgium, Germany, France and all over the UK,” he said.

“We attract retail, independent, department store and multiple store buyers as well as wholesale buyers so we have a broad cross-section from the industry.

“The latest trends, the hottest buys and key new collections will be brought to the Ricoh Arena by the exhibitors.

“Chic was launched in 1994 and we are continuing to grow each year.

“It is the only UK trade fair where it is possible for retailers to buy exactly what they need during the start of the season which allows them to take the guesswork out of buying in advance which is important in the current uncertain market in the high street.

“Since this is the first major national trade fair of the year it is also a chance for visitors to re-fill their shelves after the busy Christmas period as well as adding any key items which have emerged in popularity.

“The move to the Ricoh Arena has proved very successful and generally speaking it has increased business.

“Its central location is very popular because it is handily placed for all the motorways and the facilities are excellent.”

Julie Graham, Head of Sales at the Ricoh Arena, said 2008 was the third of Chic’s five-year contract with the venue.

“We are expecting around 2,000 people to attend over the four days and the Jaguar Exhibition Hall is a shoppers’ paradise with the rows and rows of handbags and fashion items,” she said.

“There is always a great buzz around the Ricoh when all the buyers are here as they chat about this season’s products which have hit the high streets and we are looking forward to seeing them again early in the new year.”