TRADE NEWS Advertising on social networks will not be invasive Mexx to withdraw from UK retail industry Waterstones aims to improve supply chain Retailers can use domain name to boost online presence Online shoppers unsure of risks Counterfeit goods harming retail industry Majority of internet users shop online Dragon's Den duo see product take off Online sales increase in January Retail sales slow in February Retailers set for Mother's day windfall Mamas & Papas begin retail expansion Independent retailers urged to assess everything Retailers hope to increase internet exposure Ambitious Britons hope to own businesses Retail sales enjoy quarterly growth Retailers retain confidence in the industry Women prepared to walk the earth for retail Retailers urge chancellor to ease burden Retailers urged to curb discounting Internet claiming increasing numbers of high-street shoppers FPB urges competition commission to help smaller retailers Competition commission set to replace code of conduct London retail sales below par in January Online retailers drive to attract new consumers Retailers taking legal obligations seriously UK wholesalers could be shunned by supermarkets US retailers enjoy shock sales rise Women opt for ethical Valentines gifts Retail sales set to face 2008 dip Sales boost January retail figures Retailers set for prosperous Valentine's Day Groups warn on danger of toy imports Government needs to raise small business legal awareness FWD outline annual conference plans Shop price inflation rises eBay abandons buyer negative comments European retail sales dip in December Demand for British goods increases Cashback websites battling high street for customers US wholesale prices increase Organisations to petition bag ban Capital Gains Tax may not be compatible with EU law Archive January trade news 2008   14 February 2008   Women opt for ethical Valentines gifts An increasing number of women are hoping for ethical gifts as Valentines presents, new research has revealed. According to research by the Department for International Development, 62 per cent of women revealed that they would be impressed if they received an ethical gift from their partner. With jewellery and flowers both high on the wish list, the study underlines the importance of retailers sourcing goods from wholesalers with an ethical reputation. Men were also keen to receive goods produced in good faith, with 53 per cent of male respondents hoping for an ethically produced present. The research also revealed that 74 per cent of women would be unhappy if they were offered an engagement ring with a conflict diamond. Meanwhile, retailers could be set for a prosperous Valentines Day after new research revealed that spending for the event could top £1 billion. The Alliance & Leicester figures show that the average consumer spend is £35.     (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd.     Subscribe to The Wholesaler UK regular newsletter featuring trade news, suppliers offers and trade show reminders. . .