Newsletter October 2025

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15/10/2025

Newsletter October 2025

Welcome to October 2025!

It looks as though Autumn has swept in given the frosty mornings, though the sunny days are still hanging in there from time to time!

Christmas
Many product deliveries are complete as we career headlong into the Christmas trading period. Suppliers are reporting good Christmas sales and retailers are also confirming robust trading. I hope everyone has a great October with buoyant trading across all occasions, as well as the start of Christmas!

The Henries
By the time you’re reading this the industry awards evening will be but a distant memory of Abba-tastic fun! I’m sure you will have seen all the winners on our various social media platforms and via Progressive Greetings.

Words from IC&G as they Celebrate First Class Retailers Across the UK

This festive season, IC&G is proud to celebrate the winners of our First-Class Promotion – a special initiative created to support independent retailers and their customers during what continues to be a challenging time for our industry. With ongoing pressures from Royal Mail and increasing demands on retailers at Christmas, we wanted to introduce a small but meaningful gesture of support.

The competition was simple but impactful: the first 150 customers purchasing an IC&G Christmas card in each participating shop would receive a first-class stamp completely free of charge - helping them spread Christmas cheer to friends and family without the added cost. This incentive not only rewards loyal customers but also helped drive footfall into shops during the busiest trading period of the year.

We’re thrilled to congratulate our incredible winners:

Best Wishes, Ellon, Aberdeenshire
The Wild Card, Wokingham
Maple Gifts, Porthcawl, Wales

Each of these independent retailers has demonstrated remarkable dedication to their customers and local communities, helping keep the tradition of greeting cards alive. Their smiling faces can be seen on the opposite page.

At IC&G, we’re passionate about supporting independents across the UK, not only through initiatives like the First-Class Promotion, but also by working closely with retailers to create eye-catching displays, deliver high-quality products, and provide resources that help shops thrive.

Simon at The Wild Card said, "We’re delighted to see - and of course win - IC&G’s recent promotion, which has been designed to support both independent retailers and consumers alike. At a time when local businesses need strong, practical backing, initiatives like this not only drive sales but also strengthen the relationship between retailers and their communities. It’s great to see a brand putting real thought into how it can benefit the entire supply chain, and we believe the industry needs more of this kind of forward-thinking approach."

Christmas is a vital season for our industry, and this campaign reflects our ongoing commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those at the heart of the greetings card trade. Congratulations once again to our First Class Winners - and a heartfelt thank you to every independent retailer who continues to support IC&G. Together, we’re making this Christmas truly First Class!

Stay Informed with This Month’s Newsletter

This month’s newsletter is packed with updates, perks, and insights designed just for our members.

Here’s what’s waiting for you:
• News and announcements you need to know
• Exclusive offers and member benefits
• A look ahead at what’s coming next

Read the full newsletter by clicking below. Members will also receive a printed copy with their monthly statement.

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Thanks for reading and, as always, “Thank you for your continued support!”
Penny

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