site.btaAnnual Revenue from Gift and Souvenir Sales in Europe Hits EUR 50 Billion

More than 24 manufacturers and importers of personal and corporate gifts showcased their products in the first edition of the Gifts and Souvenirs Exhibition in Veliko Tarnovo Business Centre, event organizer Milen Georgiev said on Thursday. Hundreds of visitors from five European countries, including Ireland, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, and Romania, registered for the three-day event, which aims to highlight Bulgarian souvenir producers striving for higher product standards to compete with Asian markets.

This industry has substantial growth potential in Bulgaria. "The production runs are small, so there is no direct competition with China for unique and personalized gifts. Bulgarian producers are well-positioned in Europe, thanks to strong transport links," Georgiev said. He noted that, despite the digital age, people still desire material gifts for the emotional connection they provide. He added that while screens can be exhausting, tangible gifts offer a sensory experience that digital alternatives cannot replace.

Participants in the exhibition come from different regions. The exhibitors include gallery owners displaying their unique collections of original paintings and handmade jewellery. The exhibition also features craftsmen skilled in the art of wood engraving, ceramic vessel sculpting, printing on various textiles, and boxes with oils and creams made from quality raw materials.

From September 12 to 14, different branding and engraving technologies will be shown on various products to meet specific client needs. The goal is to help manufacturers and distributors negotiate directly before the Christmas and New Year holiday season, and to help them sign personalised gifts agreements. Although this is the first exhibition of its kind, the organizers from the Veliko Tarnovo Business Centre aim to make it a tradition.