retail LITTLE BUBBAS
Little Bubbas Grows with insight Since opening her Ipswich store, Katie Warne of Little Bubbas has focused on sustainable growth, deepening customer engagement, and staying ahead of nursery product trends, all while navigating a changing retail landscape. Katie, since we last caught up, how have things been going at Little Bubbas? What’s changed most in the business landscape for you recently? Little Bubbas is progressing well, and we’ve built a sustainable base at our new shop in the centre of Ipswich. Over the past year, I’ve been working hard to grow our online presence, as engagement is crucial to converting our expertise into meaningful connections with potential customers. Fortunately, even with the change in government, the business landscape has remained relatively stable, allowing us to grow steadily. Have there been any particular challenges this year, and how have you and your team overcome them? The biggest challenge in the retail space continues to be the impact of the cost of living on people’s spending. We work hard to stay competitive, and I like to think we strike a good balance, merchandising products in a way that helps 12
customers feel they’re getting real value for money. Have you noticed any shifts in how your customers shop? For example, are they researching more online before visiting the store? It’s completely unpredictable! There’s a real mix, and we’ve had a large proportion of well-informed customers. That said, given the regulatory landscape, many parents understandably want reassurance and come in for advice. Awareness around car seat safety is definitely growing, but slowly. I think the government could do more in that area. Do you find that today’s parents are more product-savvy than they used to be? I’d say they’re more productdiscerning than brand-discerning which I think is a good thing. What trends have caught your eye lately, whether in product categories, styles, or customer preferences?
Wagons have become popular lately, and I can see the appeal - my boys love being wheeled around in the Out ‘n’ About! For me personally, extended rear-facing car seats with higher weight limits using ISOFIX are very exciting particularly the Besafe Beyond, Axkid One 3, and Avionaut Stardust. Are there any nursery product categories that are really outperforming others at the moment? Car seats are always my core category. Of course, it’s hard for me to answer that fully given the focused range I offer. Do you feel supported by the brands you stock, or is there more they could do to assist? Most brands are supportive, but more could be done. Many are now selling directly to consumers online, offering discounts or price matching. We’re essentially their showrooms, yet customers often shop around online for the lowest price. I’m currently working with 27 other
nursery today
Retail Int LittleBubbas.indd 1
13/08/2025 13:39