Hello, and welcome to issue 67 of Carp-Trade, the only dedicated publication for the carp fishing trade. With the sun shining brightly and a mass return to the bankside, sales are at long last on the increase. It’s still evident, however, that larger items such as higher-priced rods and reels are gathering dust on the shelves of many shops, and indeed some suppliers’ warehouses! I’ve been talking to a few of the local retailers around Sheffield and it’s still evident that bait and terminal tackle form the bulk of the consumer’s spend, but most shops have seen an upturn in the number of customers and a steady increase in sales of these essential items. Perhaps the increase is coming from new anglers, or perhaps from redundant workers who now have a little time for some inexpensive leisure time. Reacting to the times is of paramount importance to many companies, and it’s evident in this month’s ‘What’s New’ section that several companies have timed their latest releases to suit the slow marketplace by targeting consumers with those must-have inexpensive items, instead of large costly items that will, for a while, still be a luxury sale. Hopefully, with the summer holidays on the way, an increase in outdoor exhibitor shows and National Fishing week approaching, a few more new anglers will contribute towards repairing the slow trading we have suffered so far this year.Just before I go, on a personal note I’d like to wish Paul Naptin all the very best. Paul has headed up Realtree in the UK for a number of years but he is now leaving to pursue other interests. I’ve known Paul for a number of years, 10 to be precise, and I have always enjoyed doing business with him. I wish him well for the future. I’d also like to wish Richard Farnan all the very best in his new role at Trakker. Richard has recently been appointed UK sales and marketing manager for the Sheffield-based company. Well, that’s all for another month, so have a good one and please support National Fishing week, which this year takes place from July 24th through to 2nd August.  For further information log on to the Angling Trust website: www.anglingtrust.net Martin Ford.