NEWS


December 2025/January 2026 housewareslive.net


Pantone reveals Cloud Dancer as its 2026 Colour of the Year P


antone has announced PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as its Colour of the Year for 2026 – a soft, airy white chosen to represent calm, clarity and creative renewal in


an increasingly fast-paced world. Described as a “billowy, balanced white”, Cloud Dancer is intended to evoke feelings of serenity and the sense of a fresh start. Pantone says the hue reflects society’s growing desire to strip away noise, simplify, and create the mental space needed for reflection and innovation. According to the colour authority, Cloud Dancer functions


much like a blank canvas: a visual reset that encourages rest, focus and imagination. The organisation says the shade embodies a shift towards contentment, unity and a more mindful way of living, marking a move away from excess and relentless demands. To mark the launch, Pantone is introducing a new creative


initiative celebrating artists and designers. Throughout 2026 the company will release limited-edition pieces interpreting Cloud Dancer across disciplines from graphic design to fashion.


Dinghams Cookshop in Salisbury to close D


inghams Cookshop will close for the second time next month; the family-run shop initially closed in February 2025 but reopened eight months later ahead of Christmas.


The Hardingham family has now confirmed it will close permanently in early-


February following a closing-down sale. Dinghams has served its local community for more than 40 years, and reopened


after a property sale fell through. Despite a positive Christmas trading period, the shop’s figures were not sufficient to secure the long-term viability of the business. Sarah Hardingham said: “We want to thank everyone in Salisbury, not only for their


support this Christmas, but for their loyalty, friendship and goodwill throughout all our years of trading. “The community’s kindness and encouragement have meant the world to us.”


Morleys appoints new Chief Executive D


epartment store chain Morleys has appointed Ray Clacher as Chief Executive Officer, effective January


5 2026, with current CEO Allan Winstanley stepping down at the end of December after one year in the role. Most recently, he served as chief


commercial officer at Brand Alley and has also previously held senior leadership roles within the Li & Fung Group, including group managing director for Gieves & Hawkes, Kent & Curwen and Cerruti 1881. Earlier in his career, he worked at DH Evans and House of Fraser. Bernard Dreesmann, Chairman of Morleys Department Stores,


said: “Ray’s breadth of experience across premium fashion, commercial retail and department stores makes him exceptionally


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The first collaboration features illustrator and visual artist Emiliano Ponzi, who has designed a limited-edition tote bag incorporating his signature visual style. The exclusive item will be available via Pantone’s website, with further artist-led releases set to follow as part of Pantone’s wider commitment to supporting creativity and commissioning original work.


well placed to lead Morleys into its next chapter. We are delighted to welcome him to the business and wish him every success in his new role.”


Mr Clacher said: “I am thrilled to be joining Morleys Department Stores at such an exciting time, with the opening of Jollys in August 2026. The business has a proud history and a strong position in the UK department store market, and I look forward to working with the team to build on this success and drive growth in the years ahead.” The company has also announced that


buying director Daren Gittins has decided to take a planned break from the business to pursue his passion for travel. Having spent 13 years with Morleys, he has played a pivotal a pivotal role in shaping buying strategy. He will be leaving the business on 30 April 2026.


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