Direct is The G&LC’s integrated buying and supply platform, connecting retailers and suppliers through a single, streamlined commercial network. It gives retailers access to competitive terms, trusted suppliers and simplified purchasing, while giving suppliers direct visibility, new routes to market and access to thousands of engaged independent stockists.

Direct strengthens both sides of the supply chain. It’s buying and supplying that's reimagined for the modern gift & lifestyle sector.

Why Direct exists

The sector has long needed a commercial ecosystem that supports everyone, not just retailers.

Direct is built to:

  • Help retailers access better products, better terms and better cash flow
  • Help suppliers reach more customers, more efficiently
  • Reduce friction between buying and supplying
  • Strengthen independent retail through collective buying power
  • Create commercial opportunities across the entire G&LC community

This is not a bolt‑on. It’s a core part of how the Consortium delivers value.

Product buying

For Retailers:

Buying Power Made Simple

Retail members gain:

  • Access to 160+ trusted suppliers
  • Competitive, pre‑negotiated terms 30‑day end‑of‑month credit (subject to checks)
  • Exclusive promotions and seasonal deals
  • Centralised invoicing and reduced admin
  • Dropshipping options for high‑ticket items
  • A new 1% rebate on annual spend over £10,000
  • SMS alerts for limited‑time offers
  • Supplier Review Service to ensure best‑value terms

Direct helps retailers expand ranges, improve margins and streamline operations.

For Suppliers:

 A Powerful Route to Market

Supplier members gain:

  • Access to thousands of independent retailers
  • Visibility within the Direct supplier directory
  • Promotion through Direct campaigns and alerts
  • Opportunities to join buying events and showcases
  •  Access to Meet the Buyer / Meet the Retailer events
  • A simplified onboarding process
  • Centralised invoicing for easier account management
  • Inclusion in trend‑led product features
  • Priority consideration for dropshipping partnerships

Direct helps suppliers grow their reach, reduce admin and connect with retailers who are actively looking for new products.

 

Direct Platform Features

Direct Plus

Our ordering platform is available on mobile, tablet and desktop:

  • Live pricing
  • Stock visibility
  • Saved shopping lists
  • Order history
  • Easy repeat ordering

Supplier Directory

We have over 160 suppliers with specially negotiated terms, covering over 30+ product categories.

 

Promotion Hub

All current supplier promotions in one place.

 

Supplier Review Service

Ensures retailers receive the best possible terms and helps suppliers understand how they compare.

Invoice Manager

Centralised invoicing, compatible with most accounting systems.

Dropshipping 

Suppliers can offer dropshipping to:

  • Reduce retailer stock risk
  • Increase product reach
  • Support higher‑value categories
  • Improve cash flow for both sides

 

Retailers can expand their ranges without holding stock.