Welcome to The Gift & Lifestyle Consortium
A new collaborative force for a changing industry
The Gift & Lifestyle Consortium is a newly formed partnership created to support, connect, and champion businesses across the gift, lifestyle, and home sectors.
In collaboration with the British Independent Retailer Association (Bira) and, former CEO of The Giftware Association, the Consortium brings together decades of industry expertise with one of the UK’s most respected retail bodies.
As the sector continues to evolve, the Consortium has been established to provide a modern, agile, and inclusive hub for brands, retailers, suppliers, and service providers who want to flourish in a rapidly changing landscape.
Why the Consortium has been created
Businesses across the industry could benefit from a new kind of support model. One that is collaborative, future‑focused, and built on genuine industry insight.
The Gift & Lifestyle Consortium exists to:
- Champion businesses of all sizes across the gift, lifestyle, and home sectors
- Create meaningful connections between brands, retailers, and partners
- Provide guidance and insight rooted in decades of hands‑on industry experience
- Identify opportunities and address gaps that traditional structures may not reach
- Strengthen the sector through shared knowledge, collaboration, and community
- Representation our advocacy takes our collective voice to Parliament and into discussions with key stakeholders.
This is not a replacement for existing organisations - it is a new, complementary partnership designed to bring people together and elevate the entire industry.
Who we are
Bira – Strategic Partner
Having supported independent retailers for over 125 years, Bira brings unparalleled heritage, credibility, and understanding of the modern retail environment. Together, this partnership forms one of the strongest support propositions available to businesses in the sector today.
Sarah Ward - Co-Founder
With 30 years of experience spanning retail, wholesale, and trade association leadership, Sarah is widely recognised for her commitment to supporting and championing businesses across the sector. The Consortium represents the next chapter in her mission to bring people together and strengthen the industry through collaboration.
What’s coming next
Over the coming months, the Consortium will unveil:
- New programmes and initiatives
- Membership pathways
- Opportunities for collaboration
- Events, workshops, and industry engagement
- A dedicated website and resource hub
This page will serve as the central point for updates until the full website launches.
Meet us at the Spring Shows
The Consortium team, including Sarah and representatives from Bira will be present at the major Spring shows. We look forward to meeting brands, retailers, and partners who want to learn more about this exciting new chapter for the industry.
Request more information
If you would like to register your interest, receive updates, or be among the first to hear about membership opportunities, please complete this form: