Plan Your Trip to Spring Fair 2025: Travel Tips and Essential Updates
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The countdown to Spring Fair 2025 has begun! Taking place from 2nd-5th February 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, the retail industry's number one wholesale home, gift and fashion trade event is set to bring together brands, buyers, suppliers and industry experts for four unmissable days of networking, inspiration and business opportunities.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or preparing for your first visit, careful planning is key to making the most of everything Spring Fair has to offer. From travel logistics to insider tips, this guide will help you streamline your experience and focus on what truly matters: connecting with the right people, discovering exciting products and staying ahead in the retail world.
Let’s get started on planning your journey to Spring Fair 2025!
How to Get to the NEC
Navigating your way to the NEC couldn’t be simpler, thanks to the variety of transport options available. Whether you’re travelling by train, bus, taxi, or car we’ve got you covered.
Trains
One of the most convenient ways to reach the NEC is by train. Birmingham International Railway Station is just a five-minute walk from the venue, making it a breeze to arrive. With direct connections from major cities, you’ll be at the NEC in no time.
Buses
If you’re coming from Birmingham Airport, take advantage of the free air-rail link. This quick 90-second journey, running every two minutes, will get you directly to Birmingham International, from where it’s a short walk to the NEC.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available and can drop you off right at the venue’s entrance, providing a hassle-free travel option, especially if you’re carrying heavy luggage or prefer a direct route.
Driving
Driving to the NEC is straightforward, with excellent motorway access from the M42, M40, and M6. Just input the postcode B40 1NT into your sat nav. However, once you’re on-site, it’s best to follow the digital screens directing you to the appropriate car park. Remember, our postcode won’t lead you to the exact parking area for your event, so follow the signage instead. After parking, hop on the free shuttle bus or enjoy a pleasant walk along the signposted paths. For real-time traffic updates, check the Highways England website to ensure a smooth journey.
Travel Disruptions and Strikes
Please be aware that national train strikes are expected to take place from 30th January to 5th February, potentially affecting certain routes during Spring Fair 2025. To avoid disruptions to your journey, we recommend checking the NEC's latest travel updates for details on which routes are impacted and planning alternative arrangements if necessary.
Parking Information
Arriving at Spring Fair 2025 by car is straightforward, thanks to the NEC’s convenient location and excellent signage. The venue is easily accessible from major motorways and routes, including the M42, M40, and M6. Simply enter B40 1NT into your Sat Nav to guide you to the NEC site. Once there, ignore the Sat Nav instructions and follow the NEC’s digital screens, which will direct you to the appropriate car parks.
The NEC offers ample parking facilities, with regular shuttle buses running between the car parks and the event halls for your convenience. Standard parking for Spring Fair visitors is free of charge, making it even easier to enjoy your day without worrying about additional costs. While standard parking is not pre-bookable, the clear signage on-site will guide you to the best available spots.
Book Your Accommodation
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly stay or a touch of luxury, there are plenty of accommodation options near the NEC to suit all preferences. Here are some top picks, ranging from economical to more upscale choices, many of which are just a short walk from the venue.
Hilton Birmingham Metropole
As a partner hotel, the Hilton Birmingham Metropole offers a comfortable and convenient stay just a 7-minute walk from the NEC. Perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and ease, with excellent facilities and services to enhance your visit.
Ibis Styles Birmingham NEC
For a stylish yet affordable option, the Ibis Styles Birmingham NEC is just a 6-minute walk away. With its modern design and budget-friendly rates, it's a great choice for both business and leisure travellers.
Arden Hotel & Leisure Club
Located a mere 5-minute drive from the NEC, the Arden Hotel & Leisure Club offers a cosy atmosphere and a range of leisure facilities. Ideal if you’re after a comfortable stay with the added benefit of fitness and relaxation amenities.
Moxy Birmingham NEC
For those who want to stay closest to the action, the Moxy Birmingham NEC is only a 3-minute walk from the venue. This vibrant and contemporary hotel combines comfort with a fun, youthful vibe, ensuring a memorable stay.
Navigating the ShowWhen you arrive at Spring Fair 2025, you’ll find it easy to navigate the bustling halls with the help of our comprehensive show guides and floor plans. These guides, available to collect at the entrance, are your essential tool for exploring the event efficiently and ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights.
Large floor plans will also be displayed at the entrance to each hall, offering an at-a-glance overview of the layout to help you plan your route. For those who prefer to prepare in advance, our destination floor plan is available online here, detailing the four key destinations and the diverse range of 12 product sectors they encompass.
This year, don’t miss the exclusive Source Home & Gift destination, a standout feature showcasing carefully curated suppliers and unique products to inspire your business. Whether you’re searching for specific exhibitors or simply exploring, these resources will help you make the most of your visit. |
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Food and Drink
When visiting the Spring Fair at the NEC, you'll find a fantastic range of food and drink options to keep you fuelled throughout the day. Whether you're after a quick coffee, a leisurely meal, or something in between, there’s something for everyone both onsite and nearby.
The Summer House Edit Café - Hall 7 & 8
Located within the stylish Summer House Edit destination, this café is perfect for networking, planning, or simply taking a breather. With its revamped design, it’s an ideal spot for home, gift, and lifestyle buyers to recharge while catching up on orders or seeking inspiration.
MODA x Pure Fashion Café - Hall 2
For a fashion-inspired break, head to the Moda x Pure Fashion Café. This chic coffee bar is designed not only for relaxation but also to spark creativity, featuring pop-up activations that showcase innovative in-store experiences. It’s the perfect spot for a quick recharge with a side of inspiration.
Deck the Halls Café - Hall 5
Embrace a festive vibe at the Deck the Halls Café, situated in the Christmas, Floral & Seasonal destination. Here, you can enjoy holiday-inspired drinks from the Starbucks pop-up, making it a delightful place to unwind with a touch of seasonal cheer.
Street Food Market - Hall 4 and 8
Craving something more adventurous? The Street Food Market offers a world of flavours with a variety of food trucks serving global cuisines. From sizzling street eats to gourmet delights, it’s the perfect place to indulge. Enjoy your meal with a refreshing drink from the lively bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as you recharge between exploring the latest trends at the Spring Fair.
Show Essentials
To make the most of your visit to Spring Fair 2025, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s a list of must-have items to ensure you have a smooth and productive experience:
Comfortable Shoes
With so much to explore, comfortable footwear is essential. You'll be covering plenty of ground as you navigate through the extensive halls, so be sure to wear shoes that can keep up with your day.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key during a busy day at the show. Bring along a reusable water bottle to fill up at the various water stations throughout the venue. It’s an eco-friendly way to ensure you’re refreshed and ready to tackle the next exhibit.
Chargers
Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or laptop, keeping your devices charged is crucial for staying connected and taking notes. Don’t forget your chargers and perhaps a portable power bank to keep your tech ready for action.
The Little Black Book
This essential product preview guide is your key to unlocking the full potential of Spring Fair 2025. Packed with everything from floor plans and exhibitor lists to the latest trends and show highlights, the Little Black Book is designed to inspire, save time, and help you discover over 1 million products. Make sure you have it handy—click here to view it now!
Notebook or Device for Taking Notes
Whether you prefer old-school note-taking or digital devices, having something to jot down insights, contacts, and ideas is vital. Capture your thoughts and key takeaways to make the most of your experience and follow up after the event.
Registration and Entry
To ensure a seamless start to your Spring Fair 2025 experience, we strongly recommend pre-registering for your free ticket as soon as possible. Registration is quick and easy, and it guarantees your entry to the event without unnecessary delays. Simply visit the Spring Fair website, complete the registration process, and download your digital pass.
Having your pass ready before you arrive is crucial. Save it to your mobile device or print it out to ensure swift access on the day. Arriving early is another top tip—doors open promptly, and an early arrival helps you avoid queues, giving you more time to explore the halls and start networking.
Networking and Socialising
Spring Fair 2025 isn’t just about exploring the latest trends and innovations—it’s also a prime opportunity to build meaningful connections within the retail community. Beyond the show floor, the event offers countless chances to network, exchange ideas, and forge valuable relationships.
Be sure to attend after-hours events, where you can meet fellow attendees, exhibitors, and speakers in a more relaxed and informal setting. These gatherings are perfect for expanding your network, sharing insights, and discovering fresh perspectives on industry challenges and opportunities.
While at the event, take the time to connect with exhibitors and speakers. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask questions, and exchange contact details to keep the dialogue going after the fair. Don’t underestimate the power of these connections—they can often lead to collaborations, partnerships, or fresh opportunities in the future.
Make the most of every chance to socialise and network during your time at Spring Fair 2025. Remember, the relationships you build here could be as valuable as the insights you gain!
Spring Fair 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event, packed with opportunities to discover innovative products, build valuable connections, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving retail industry. By planning your visit carefully—whether it’s registering in advance, navigating the venue efficiently, or staying informed about travel updates—you’ll ensure a productive and enjoyable experience.
We look forward to welcoming you from 2nd to 5th February at the NEC Birmingham. With your preparations in place, you’ll be ready to make the most of everything Spring Fair 2025 has to offer. See you there!
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