This September we headed to Autumn Fair 2025, one of the biggest UK trade shows for gifting, homeware, and confectionery. The halls were bursting with bright colours, clever packaging, and plenty of ideas we think will be shaping shelves in the months to come. Here’s our round-up of the trends that stood out.
Packaging with a Twist: The Rise of Reusable Metal
A clear highlight was the shift towards metal-based packaging, from small tins to novelty pull-ring cans. This packaging trend isn’t just about looking premium and giftable; it’s also about sustainability. Shoppers are increasingly drawn to packaging they can reuse, whether as a keepsake container or simply something that feels less throwaway.
We believe this is one of the reasons our own glass message bottles have been such a hit. Customers love that once the sweets are gone, the bottles live on – as pen holders, mini vases, or even as part of their décor. That lasting value makes people feel their purchase was worthwhile, which is exactly why reusable packaging is having its moment!
For retailers, this ticks both the eco-conscious and the value-for-money boxes. We’ll definitely be exploring how this fits into future Treat Kitchen packaging innovations.
Confectionery Trends: Chocolate Gets Playful?
When it came to confectionery, chocolate dominated Autumn Fair (which surprised us due to the rising costs!). But forget standard slabs – this year it was all about playful chocolate shapes (yes, we saw chocolate ducks) and unusual flavour combinations that we obviously had to sample! Licensed characters also had a strong presence, with much loved names like The Gruffalo, Peppa Pig and Bluey adding a collectible and nostalgic feel. It’s clear that confectionery gifting is leaning into fun, surprise, and a touch of storytelling.
We’re already in on this with our Original Stormtrooper chocolate helmet! Year after year, one of our best sellers. Rising chocolate prices have previously made us cautious about expanding too far into this category, but the energy and innovation we saw at Autumn Fair suggests there could be more to explore.
Greeting Cards: Bold & Nostalgic
In the world of greeting cards, it was impossible to miss the bold colours and retro influences. Neon typography, bright graphic shapes, and unapologetically cheerful and cheeky designs are making a comeback. These nostalgic styles are a way for shoppers to tap into happy memories and add a dose of dopamine to everyday moments.
Our Take: Bright Nostalgia as a Retail Strategy
If one theme tied everything together at Autumn Fair, it was bright nostalgia. With disposable income under pressure, shoppers are being more selective – but when they do spend, they want items that spark joy. From dopamine décor to colourful packaging and playful confectionery, the message was clear: people want their everyday purchases to make them smile.
It’s not just about the product itself, but the emotional connection it creates. In challenging times, even a small treat – whether it’s a reusable tin filled with sweets, a retro-inspired card, or a quirky chocolate shape – can feel like a worthwhile spend.
And the best part? At Treat Kitchen, we’re already ahead of the curve. Every single one of our products taps into the bright nostalgia trend! From playful flavours to joyful packaging – meaning our collections are perfectly placed to deliver the spark of happiness shoppers are searching for.
👉 If you’re looking for products that are ahead of the trends, give our sales team an email at sales@treatkitchen.co.uk
