The Gifts World Expo 2024 concluded its second day on 26 July and attracted a substantial number of visitors keen to explore the latest trends and innovations in the gifting industry. Emphasising the need to build strong strategic partnerships and fostering business synergies, the event is being held at Pragati Maidan.
The Gift Talks Conference was a major focus with sessions designed to facilitate dialogues, networking opportunities, and collaborative ventures that promise to drive growth and innovation in the sector. Keynote presentations included insights on sustainable gifting and brand-building strategies.
Hakan Kjellstrom, CEO & General Manager, Life by Follis, delivered an impactful talk on ‘Sustainable Gifting: Eco-Friendly Practices for a Better Tomorrow’, while Namita Tayal, President, Innerwheel, led an engaging session on ‘Transforming Luxury Through Sustainable Design and Corporate Social Responsibility’. Other notable panelists also included Bennett Biji, Marketing Manager, Misree - Crafted by Haldiram's, and Avneet Mann, Co-founder & CEO, The Wishing Chair who contributed their insights into the panel discussion on brand-building in the gifting industry.
Panel discussions throughout the day featured industry leaders who shared their expertise on various aspects of the gifting industry. Ruchika Mehta, Corporate Director of Communications & PR, The Park Hotels, and Sai Harsh, Marketing Head, Monin India, explored the nuances of gifting as a tool for brand building and marketing.
The afternoon sessions continued to deliver insights with presentations from Pawan Hora, Director and Head of PR, Wishbox, who discussed the significance of exceptional gifting in elevating PR strategies. Ruchin Kohli, Director, Occasion Xperts, stressed the importance of corporate gifts in event planning and weddings, while Prerana Saxena, CEO-founder, Theme Weavers Designs, offered a unique perspective on blending tradition with modernity in wedding gifting alongside Nimit Mehta, Founder Director, R2S World, who contributed to the discourse on local wedding gifting and its evolving trends.
The day concluded with a panel discussion on ‘Pathways to Prosperity: Business Growth Insights’, featuring experts like Kohli, Saxena, Hora, and Mehta, who discussed how gifting can drive exceptional business success whereas the last panel of the day deliberated on the role of the Corporate Gifting Association of India (CGAI) in empowering startups within the industry, featuring Kushal Shah, Managing Director, Seana, and Jigar Jaisinghani, CEO, Royale Collections, among others.
Commenting on the high level of participation, Himani Gulati, Director, MEX Exhibitions, expressed, "The energy and enthusiasm today have been phenomenal. Our attention to building partnerships is crucial for collaboration and driving industry growth. We are excited about the innovative ideas and business connections that have emerged from today’s discussions and we thank all the panelists who contributed their insights and forward-thinking approaches today which reflect the vibrant future of the gifting industry and the opportunities that lie ahead."
The exhibition floor was filled with an array of gifting solutions, ranging from luxurious lifestyle products to eco-friendly options. Leading brands such as Caslay, Amazing Gifts, and Pinnacle Enterprises highlighted the importance of bespoke and corporate gifting. The beauty and wellness sector was well-represented by brands like Himalayan Pine Co and Renee Cosmetics, while gourmet hampers from Tulsi Nuts & Dry Fruits and Pansari Industries emerged as refined gifting options. Electronic gadgets from Metashot and JBL captivated the audience, showcasing the perfect blend of utility and desirability. Custom branding machinery presented by HSW and Colorjet demonstrated how state-of-the-art equipment can enhance gift personalisation. Handicrafts, home decor, houseware, and stationery from brands like Logam India and Kangaro catered to diverse gifting needs, offering functional and stylish solutions.
The event's success has been enhanced by the support of prominent collaborations and sponsors. Pinnacle Enterprises is the Title Sponsor, CGAI lent its support as the Supporting Association, Mutha Impex took on the role of Registration Sponsor, and Magnificence MAPP partnered as the Knowledge Partner for Gift Talks.
With the event’s last day being 27 July, the event promises further exciting sessions and networking opportunities, ensuring that attendees leave with insights and a growing business network.