A County Durham entrepreneur is set to showcase her sustainable pet-themed gifts on a major national stage after winning a place at one of Europe’s leading retail shows.
Jasmine Heywood, founder of JLHPrint, is one of just 18 small businesses selected from across the UK to exhibit at Spring Fair 2027.
The show, held at the NEC Birmingham from February 7 to 10, is one of Europe’s largest retail trade events, attracting more than 40,000 retail professionals from across the retail sector.
JLHPrint, inspired by Ms Heywood’s rescue dogs, specialises in eco-friendly, pet-inspired gifts, artwork, and personalised products, as well as an eco-conscious clothing collection.
The opportunity came through a nationwide competition in partnership with Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday (#SBS) initiative.
The win secures JLHPrint a free stand in the dedicated #SBS Village at the event, giving the business direct access to retail buyers from independent shops, department stores, garden centres, and major high street brands.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said: "Every year we're inspired by the incredible creativity, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit within the #SBS community, but this year's entries raised the bar once again.
"The quality of applications was outstanding, making the judging process incredibly difficult. "JLHPrint is a fantastic example of the innovation and originality that independent businesses bring to the retail industry.
"We're delighted to welcome them to Spring Fair 2027 and look forward to introducing their products to thousands of retail buyers from across the UK and internationally. "We can't wait to see where this opportunity takes them."
The partnership between Spring Fair and #SBS aims to open doors for emerging independent businesses by providing access to the broader retail industry.
Now in its eighth year, the initiative has supported the launch of more than 100 retail brands by offering exhibitor opportunities at the show.
Theo Paphitis, retail entrepreneur and founder of Small Business Sunday, said: "The partnership between #SBS Small Business Sunday and the Spring & Autumn Fair team has now been running for eight years, and with this year’s competition we will have awarded over 100 free stands to small business owners.
"Year on year, the connections and relationships formed within the #SBS Village demonstrate just how valuable this opportunity is for growing businesses.
"It is a genuinely business-boosting experience, and I am already looking forward to meeting this year’s 18 finalists."
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