The AIS Showroom was completely full, with a number of brands taking extra space to show off their ranges. There had been a re-design of the layout, to make the show look fresh and alive, but it was the retailers who made the biggest impact, as they arrived in increased numbers, to see what was new for 2010 and beyond. Highlights of the show from a merchandise perspective were many.

William Turner were celebrating 40 years of manufacturing in the UK and featuring a comprehensive range of hi viz rucksacks, bags and accessories. Safety was also a theme on the Winterbottom stand, with their Reflazer Blazer.

David Luke were featuring their Premier Advantage Blazer, with the Badger Easy Access System for simpler embroidery. They also offered a PV hopsack blazer from stock.

Technical fabrics were also an element of the David Luke sports range, as with Halbro and GForce by Gymphlex.

Most school sports brands had plenty of team kit, almost always technical in nature. Falcon Sports had a particularly impressive selection. Sensport, who were new to the show had a comprehensive range of team kit options.

Fleeces with special treatments and jackets with warm linings, all of which could be embroidered, were evident on a number of stands. Hoodies on the Balmoral/Papini stand were another big hit.

Blue Max Group had the biggest stand and used the space well, with their improved polo shirt offer and new 50/50 acrylic cotton knitwear. 

Most knitwear suppliers were showing the cotton mix, which has become so popular. But it was the mix of exhibitors that gave the show its distinct look.

Most visitors were pleased it had not lost the relaxed feel that has been built up over the years by Force Twelve, who organise the show, AIS who host it and the exhibitors who make it work, all for the benefit of independent retailers. Of course not everything works perfectly, but the overall atmosphere was terrific.

The styling features were for more fitted garments for the girls and narrower lapels on boys' jackets. Fitted blouses were available within many of the traditional shirt and blouse ranges around the hall.

There were more suppliers showing piped or braided blazers and a more traditional look was prevalent. This contrasted with the sportswear, where garments were more modern and complicated in design.

The Schoolwear Association had a stand, which was manned by a few sterling volunteers. We had a lot of interest in the work of the SA with around 20 retailers joining during the three days of the show.

Many more are needed to enable the work to develop for the benefit of the whole schoolwear market. It was great to be able to relate the hard work and significant success we have achieved during the last 12 months.

On the Sunday evening there was a wonderful fundraiser for the SA in a nearby hotel. The Casino Royale spectacular, sponsored by Rowlinson, was a great success and is set to grow each year to become a schoolwear trade highlight.

Thanks should be given to Joyce Daly and her Team at AIS, for their hard work and of course those unsung heroes at Force Twelve, who have steered the Schoolwear Show in such a selfless way for the last dozen years.

For more information about The Schoolwear Association visit www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk

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