retail
BUSH BABES BABY STORE
All grown up Bush Babes Baby Store have grown and adapted over the years to keep in line with the changing demands of being an independent nursery retailer. Here we talk to owner Gael Bootman to find out more. Tell us a little about your ur store - when did you first st open your doors?
“sWe a sk a ll ou r
upp li er s to re g ula r ly c o ver p ro duc t tr a in in an d re fres h er s g keep every on e to up d a te d an d intereste d in t h e p ro duc ts
We have been trading for 32 yearss (1984) in a small shop in Bush Hilll Park, Enfield (hence the Bush Babes name), moved to Bengeo, Hertford in 1988 and then to Ware into a vast ex maltings building in 1996. We have been in our current premises in Cheshunt, Herts since 2005 and spent nine years as the first M&P franchise store. We split amicably from this in February 2015, when we returned to Bush Babes and full independence once again. We have managed to move premises to grow, but keep our customer base and stay within the same area in Hertfordshire.
What was the inspiration behind the store?
I just always wanted to have my own business, so started it straight from college at the tender age of 18! There appeared to be a gap in the market at the time in our area.
How much square footage do you occupy? At present we have approximately 6,000 square feet as our retail floor space plus storage. 16
nursery today
”
H How do you manage your shop floor space? We clearly split the store into departments: travel, furniture/ interiors, car safety and babywear. in We are also very careful to brand the W areas with suppliers and bespoke ar POS stands so it is clear for the PO customer shopping experience. We are cus also hot on stock that doesn’t sell well and have a “3 strikes and you’re out” policy! polic
How important are brands to your y business and why?
Super important. The relationship between retailer and brand/supplier is betwe vital aand that it is mutually beneficial. We want to be able to offer the very w best and popular brands but the brand need the assurance that proper visual merchandising principals and branding are kept in line with their iconic products and are properly adhered to and respected.
Is there a particular hero product at the moment for you that mums just can’t get enough of ? Silver Cross special editions are doing very well at the moment, but during sale time everyone wants a bargain, so we ensure that we clear out the dead wood ready for the autumn ranges. M&P Welcome to the World Bedding,
new clothing ranges for autumn/winter, Snuzpod and Bugaboo are all doing well at the moment. We have recently taken Venicci since Harrogate and that’s performing well for a newly added brand.
How do you source products for your store or perhaps spot those new products that will tomorrows’ must-haves?
I just always ensure I go to all the relevant trade fairs and any supplier events, as it’s vital to be ahead of the game and aware of new products and changes. I also listen to customers’ and staff opinions and requests.