In the latest instalment of our online interview series, we chat with Craig Forsythe, founder and CEO of GiftRound, the innovative service that simplifies the process of collections for gifts…
Tell us about your company, products and services.
GiftRound is a straightforward online service that enables a group of people to collect money for gifts. Our aim is to bring more people together to celebrate and show they care.
What have been the biggest challenges your sector has faced over the past 12 months (outside of Covid-19)?
GiftRound is a start-up and we’ve had to learn to walk before we run. We have grand plans for what we think GiftRound should offer, but we’re learning to listen to our customers and grow a service that meets their needs.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
We’ve taken the opportunities to exhibit at national PA shows and we totally love getting out and telling people about GiftRound. Our focus has been to replace the traditional office collection by making it hassle-free, more inclusive and secure. We’ve also had a good number of groups using GiftRound for Primary School teachers’ gifts, and friends clubbing together at weddings.
What is the biggest priority for the gifting sector in 2020?
There is a welcome, continuing trend of people moving away from cheap plastic gifts that clutter our home. And more than ever before, people want to support quality British retailers.
What are the main trends you are expecting to see in the market in 2020?
We believe experience gifts are going to really take off in 2020. They offer a good remedy post lockdown as people will have a thirst to enjoy what life has to offer.
In 2023 we’ll all be talking about…?
“Let’s use GiftRound” shall become a common phrase in workplaces across the UK. That’s what we’re aiming for! We’d love GiftRound to become a part of everyday life where we use technology to bridge the gap of teams working from anywhere.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learnt about the corporate gifting sector?
The generosity and kind words that people share when they are contributing to a gift can be extremely touching. I always hope that it’s not the first time the individual has heard those kind words from their colleagues and friends.
You go to the bar at the PA Life Summit – what’s your tipple of choice?
This sounds GREAT! I’d choose a beer on draft of something local…
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
There is nothing more exciting for me than when people set up a collection using GiftRound, which is closely followed by reading the contributors’ comments made in the collection.
And what’s the most challenging?
The highs of running your own start-up can be quickly followed by the lows. Dealing with customer issues sometimes can sometimes be tricky. But we always do our best to go above and beyond customer expectations and are keen to build a strong reputation for excellent customer service.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Until one is committed there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative or creation, there is one elementary truth… that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves. too.” ― W.H. Murray, The Scottish Himalayan Expedition
Just take that first step…
