The refined world of stationery embodies creativity, nostalgia, and utility. Whether you run a boutique greeting-card shop, a craft store, or a sophisticated online retailer, London Stationery Show delivers a packed discovery experience. This curated, trade-only two-day event hosted at the Business Design Centre in Islington showcases the latest in writing instruments, paper goods, planners, art supplies, and crafting materials. It’s the ideal spot to unearth inspiring designers, emerging brands, and creative innovations before they reach mainstream shelves.
If you’re focused on sourcing distinctive products that offer both quality and personality, this is the event to bookmark.
Event Details: Venue, Dates & Timings
- Venue: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH
- Next Edition: Tuesday 12 – Wednesday 13 May 2026
- Opening Hours: 09:30 – 17:00 both days
- Expected Turnout: ~2,000 trade attendees, ~165 exhibitors
The venue’s central London location is perfect for maximising a packed sourcing schedule.
Who Should Attend
This show caters to a vibrant assortment of trade professionals, including:
- Stationery buyers for brick-and-mortar and online outlets
- Creative supply store owners and franchise operators
- Art shop curators and educational suppliers
- Brand managers and product developers in paper and writing goods
- Gift and lifestyle shop buyers
- Café retailers exploring stationery accessories
The London Stationery Show is strictly trade-only, ensuring you have access to meaningful, high-value connections.
Experience Sections and Highlights
1. Product Categories
Explore curated stands featuring:
- Premium and eco-friendly writing instruments
- Decorative and functional stationery—journals, planners, greeting cards
- Art supplies, crafting tools, adhesives, tapes
- Desk accessories, organisers, leather-bound notebooks
- Giftable items—from artisan paper to unique deskware
2. Brands & Innovation
Hosted brands range from long-standing heritage makers to passionate start-ups. Expect a blend of durability, design, and inspiring presentation. Filofax, Acmeliae, Artgecko, and many others will showcase the latest collections.
3. Seminars & Advice Clinics
Take part in free seminars workshops and 1‑2‑1 advice sessions covering topics like: how to trend-forecast; designing brand-aligned stationery ranges; and merchandising techniques.
4. Networking Opportunities
Tranquil lounge and cafe spaces create an ideal backdrop for spontaneous conversations. Connect with suppliers, arrange virtual follow-ups, or strike deals onsite.
Why Attend
- Product Discovery: Explore hundreds of curated stationery lines—all in one accessible venue.
- Trend Insight: Spot emerging categories, eco paper goods, premium pen collections, and giftable accessories.
- Trade Access: Get better pricing, MOQ flexibility, and early sight of new product drops.
- Education & Mentorship: Access seminars and advice sessions for range development and brand building.
- Business Connections: Build relationships with premium artisans and strategic suppliers in a quiet, trade-only setting.
- Operational Efficiency: Two days of concentrated sourcing makes planning straightforward and impactful.
Attendance Details
- Entry is free for trade professionals—registration is essential, and credentials are vetted.
- Registration for the 2026 edition opens via the show’s official channels—directories and invites make attendance easy to plan.
Travel & Nearby Stay
Getting There
- Tube: Take the Northern line to Angel, or Overground to Highbury & Islington—both involve a short walk.
- Bus: Multiple routes serve Upper Street with stops adjacent to the venue.
- Car: Limited on-site parking is available; public transport is recommended.
Accommodation Options
Whether you’re visiting for a day or the full duration, Central Islington offers excellent stay options:
- Premier Inn Islington – solid value
- Holiday Inn Express London‑City Road – well-located and efficient
- Marlin City – king studios for slightly longer stays
- Airbnbs in Islington and Shoreditch offer flexible arrangements
Compact UK travel networks mean easy returns—even if you stay outside the immediate zone.
How to Prepare
- Plan your route via exhibitor directory before the show
- Book sessions early—seminars and clinics fill quickly
- Bring supplies: notepad, pen, tote bag, business cards
- Dress smart, walk comfortably—the floor and stairs involve a fair amount of walking
- Schedule breaks in the cafes to balance productivity with reflection
Post-Show Follow-Up
Turn your visit into growth by:
- Requesting sample stock and catalogue packs
- Comparing quotes for eco or premium lines
- Sharing trend reports with teams or partners
- Planning marketing campaigns around new arrivals
- Arranging virtual demos or showroom visits with key suppliers
Final Thoughts
The London Stationery Show may be small compared to exhibitions in Birmingham or Olympia—but its curation, depth, and focus give you a powerful sourcing edge. From bespoke pens and artisan journals to stationery art kits and gift-ready designs, it offers the perfect blend of design and commerce for retailers who want to excel in product storytelling and quality.
For any trade buyer looking to enhance their stationery shelving with fresh, meaningful stock, this show is an unmissable opportunity.
Book Your Free Trade Ticket Now
Visit here to book your ticket for the London Stationery Show 2026