Words ‘n’ Wishes has significantly strengthened its ‘team sheet’ with 320 greeting cards from Danilo now being available to independent retailers via the Wigan-based publisher.
Having been announced in June that Words ‘n’ Wishes was to take over from Is It Art as Danilo’s sales and distribution partner for the independent sector, the two companies agreed on a long handover, with the new arrangement coming into effect from yesterday (October 1) when the first orders are being taken, with dispatch starting from today.
The close working relationship between the two companies was officially christened at Words ‘n’ Wishes’ annual sales conference that took place last Friday (September 28) at St George’s Park, the English Football Association’s national football centre in Burton on Trent.
Rod Brown, managing director of Words ‘n’ Wishes (and former professional footballer and manager himself) explained how the venue, being a centre of excellence, was apposite, mirroring the publisher’s mission.
“We continually strive to provide excellence, on the service we offer, our product range and relationships with our customer,” he told PG Buzz.
The overarching theme of the Conference was on ‘Bucking the trend’.
“In the seven years of Words ‘n’ Wishes’ existence we have been fortunate to grow our business. The double digit growth we achieved from last year alone is testament to our team out in the field as well as at HQ,” said Rod. “There are still opportunities out there, but it involves thinking outside the box.”
Danilo’s strong licensed product portfolio joins Words ‘n’ Wishes’ own published ranges (with 109 new designs launched at the conference) as well as the curated selection it distributes on behalf of Quitting Hollywood (which spans some 50 designs).
Daniel Prince, md of Danilo expressed his delight “to be finally ‘live’ and working with Words ‘n’ Wishes. The conference was just the start of our relationship with Rod and his team. We are really looking forward to the next few years and ensuring we service and supply the independent sector with our full range of licensed products.”
He added that the event provided a great opportunity for the Danilo team to show the Words ‘n’ Wishes’ sales team the range and licensed brands with whom it has licensing agreements.
The conference also saw the annual presentation of Words ‘n’ Wishes’ Salesperson of the Year award, which went to David Larmour, agent for Northern Ireland, for the third year in succession David also won the Spring Seasons Highest Achiever award.
Danny Gratton, agent for the Midlands won Christmas Highest Achiever while Alan McKay was presented with the Special Recognition Award.
