Steve Stuart, founder and chairman of the ICRA, set up the association ten weeks ago with the aim of providing a support and education network for craft retailers, whilst addressing important industry issues. Since it was founded Steve has received massive support and now boasts 237 members. “The Association is made up of independent craft retailers and a few internet companies that are are either registered for VAT or with the Government and are paying business taxes. Not a day goes by where I don't receive an email expressing interest in what we are doing,” Steve explains.

Steve is keen to stress that the primary aims for the ICRA are to provide education and encourage communication between retailers and suppliers to strengthen and grow the industry. “This is not, and never will be, a witch-hunt! We need to find positive ways to achieve the best from the growing crafts market,” Steve explains. Despite already attracting a large number of members he feels that the hard work is only just beginning. “We have started off so well and, without a doubt, I am really pleased by the response. However, we do need to think about the future – I would like to have over 300 members by Christmas with the aim of 90% of retailers joining us,” he says.

The ICRA have also attracted interest of others in the industry. ”There is a definite need for communication and greater understanding in the craft industry. I see what Steve is trying to achieve as a step in the right direction. It doesn’t need to stop with retailers, and should also include an open platform to a wider audience,” explains Becks Fagg, marketing director for ScrapGenie Ltd. She feels that the way in which consumers purchase and suppliers sell is evolving in all sectors. “Trading times are tough all round as a result of the growth of the internet,” she adds. “In the US they have the CHA, which encompasses the various trade components, and yet in the UK and Europe there is no institution or association that brings everyone together to work for the advancement of the industry. This was one of the reasons Becks approached a few people about her retail forum. “No-one wants to see the loss of independent retailers, as they underpin consumer choice and product availability. We are all culpable, and all are part of the solution,” comments Becks.

Looking towards 2007 Steve hopes to host a conference for retailers and suppliers to get together and discuss the year with the view of discovering the positive and negative aspects and ways to challenge them. “I will be working more closely with the Office of Fair Trading and I really want suppliers to get on board – it is really crucial for progress,” Steve concludes.