News

SANTORO’s Pirouette Countdown won the top prize in the “Festive & Occasions” category at the 2025 Gift Of The Year Awards. Organized by The Giftware Association, the award recognizes innovation, creativity and commercial appeal across the gifting industry. This win marks another milestone for the product, which also secured a Gold Medal at the 2024 Independent Toy Awards.

In addition to the win, SANTORO was honored to have another product, The Book Café Swing Card, named as a finalist. It was proudly recognised as a “Highly Commended” product — a testament to its charm, craftsmanship and storytelling appeal.

“We are absolutely overjoyed with the recognition,” said Tara Strickland, Head of Design at SANTORO. “To win with our Pirouette Countdown and be highly commended for our Book Café Swing Card is incredibly humbling. Both products are labors of love, and this acknowledgment inspires us to keep pushing creative boundaries.”

The awards ceremony, held at the Royal Lancaster London, was filled with inspiration, celebration and camaraderie among the industry’s most passionate creators and retailers. SANTORO extended a heartfelt thanks to The Giftware Association for an unforgettable night and to everyone who continues to support and champion thoughtful, design-led gifting.

Building on the success and enthusiastic response to the Pirouette Countdown over the past year, SANTORO is also delighted to share company plans to expand the range with a brand new Pop & Build collection. This extension will feature designs beyond the Christmas season, introducing celebratory countdowns for occasions like birthdays and Halloween — offering even more magical moments all year round.