retail LITTLE STARS
In-store at Little Stars Malta
Fully focused
Edward impressed with the Silver Cross Reef 2
at Little Stars
Nursery Today’s Editor Penny Franks took time out at Kind + Jugend with Little Stars Malta’s owner Edward Bugeja while walking the show halls, finding out how business has fared for this unique Maltese independent retailer, the importance of the event to his trade calendar and of course a look towards the upcoming Harrogate Int. Nursery Fair.
It’s great to see you here in Cologne at Kind + Jugend, why has it been important for you to attend this international event?
Have you seen any new products or brands that you are considering onboarding whilst being at the show?
Thank you. It’s a pleasure to be at Kind + Jugend in Cologne again, an event I’ve attended for 10 years and that keeps improving. This international event is key for us to engage with industry experts and spot new trends. Trends shift constantly so staying updated is essential. I’ve worked closely with suppliers here for many years, though some no longer exhibit. Being here reinforces our goal to lead in our local market and build strong partnerships with suppliers. Additionally, speaking directly with retailers and distributors offers valuable feedback that helps refine our offering.
Yes, one of my key objectives this year is to reintroduce Britax Römer to our portfolio. We have represented Britax in the past, but after their restructuring, we lost focus and missed out on the opportunity, which was later taken up - and subsequently dropped - by one of our competitors. Additionally, we have added Kidwell, a promising brand from Poland to our portfolio, as their products have shown great potential. Fraupow is also now part of our line-up and we are already seeing an excellent response from customers, which is very encouraging.
What has been your main focus whilst visiting? Is there a particular product category that you will be seeking this year?
Has this event given you a great opportunity to spot any upcoming trends and if so, can you share some of your highlights with our readers?
My main focus during this visit is to explore innovations and find products that stand out in quality and design. It seems like over the years some brands have adopted similar designs, leading to products that look and function alike. While not targeting a specific category, I am trying to discover the items that break away from this trend. This year, I am focusing on quality, looking for brands that pay attention to detail. It’s this commitment to quality and unique design that makes products truly valuable for our clients. 30
This event highlighted key trends like sustainability. Brands are focusing on eco-friendly solutions, using natural, bio-degradable and recyclable materials to meet the demands of environmentally conscious parents. Multi-functionality is also a trend, with products designed to serve multiple purposes and grow with the child. Technology integration is rising too, offering smart devices that enhance convenience and safety. Lastly, minimalist, gender-neutral designs
are gaining popularity, reflecting a shift towards inclusive styles.
Do you feel you have seen any new innovations that you would also like to highlight? Yes, I was particularly impressed by the “Magic” nappy disposal system at the Innovation Awards, especially the Magic Bin. While these bins have been around for years, Magic introduced thoughtful enhancements that stand out. Its efficiency and vibrant design make it appealing for modern homes. Once again, the Dutch impressed with practicality and aesthetics. This is a product to watch. We have plans to take this on board, discussions are already in process.
Is there a difference between consumer trends in Malta in comparison to those in the UK? Do trends reflect your buying decisions while in the show halls? Definitely. There is a clear difference between consumer trends in Malta and the UK. Maltese consumers prefer well-established, reputable brands, especially from countries like the UK and Germany, which are known for quality. Last year, the Hartan Mercedes and AMG collection performed exceptionally well in Malta due to its prestige and reputation. We’ve also seen success with My Babiie, another recent addition. At shows like this, I focus on top-tier brands
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Retail Int LittleStars.indd 1
10/09/2024 17:14