Progressive Preschool September/October 2018

The B2B Publication For Preschool Products and Retailers

ISSUE 37 SEPT/OCT 2018

Cologne Calling

What’s In Store at Kind + Jugend

Brand And Deliver

Preschool Entertainment Highlights

Talking Tech ELA Sector Focus

Push And Pull

Mobility Products Update

Bedtime Stories

Spinmaster Shines The Light

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KIND + JUGEND? Book your appointment now to see our fresh new product picks in toy, gear and much more!

Kind + Jugend | September 20 – 23 Cologne, Germany | Hall 10.1 Stand C030/D039

CONTACT OUR UK OFFICE TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT AT THE SHOW WWW.SKIPHOP.COM Email: ukoffice@skiphop.com | Tel: 01582 434250 00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

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MARKET LEADING TRADE MAGAZINES March/April 2013

this month SEPT/ OCT 2018

MARKET LEADING TRADE EXHIBITIONS

MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP T: 020 7700 6740 F: 020 7607 6411 www.max-publishing.co.uk

ISSN 2515-8570

Traditionally a time for retailers and suppliers to catch their breath before the all-consuming run-up to Christmas, this summer has been remarkably positive.

The serotonin-boosting effect of the good weather extended to the retail trade, with shoppers taking to the high streets to make the most of the opportunity to browse in the sunshine.

As the summer continued, that initial boost petered out, with the BRC reporting that spending at pubs grew by almost 12% over the same period. It’s fairly easy to see what happened there!

Regardless of what has been taking place in shopping centres and high streets (and bars) across the UK, we at PPS have been a busy bunch, overseeing the various judging days which have been taking place for the Progressive Preschool Awards 2018. Although we certainly didn’t have it as hard as the judges, who faced an incredibly tough task. Turn to page 23 to find out more about the finalists and who made the shortlist!

The next big diary entry for the preschool trade is Kind + Jugend, Europe’s biggest nursery show. This year’s show will be building on the back of last year’s successful reshuffle, with the BPA UK Pavilion moving to Hall 4.1 and the official networking drinks reception will be taking place there at 6pm on the first day of the show (Thursday 20 September). We’ll see you there!

Following hot on the heels of Kind + Jugend is Brand Licensing Europe, which is taking place a little closer to home in London’s Olympia – although it will be the last year it is held in that venue, before it moves to ExCel for 2019. Our feature on preschool licensing (page 39) gives an overview of what visitors to the show can expect to see, with a number of exciting new properties on the horizon, all preparing to shake up the preschool landscape.

We’ll be at both of these shows, so if you see us walking the aisles, do stop us for a chat.

There’s not much we like more than a good, old-fashioned gossip.

Until next time.

The Progressive Preschool Team – Rob Willis, Jacqui Parr, John Barry, Samantha Loveday, Ian Hyder, Jakki Brown, Warren Lomax

Leaps & Bounds

Pre-order your stock today!

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What‘s on the playground?

Stay on the ball and experience the multifaceted world of play in one place: the right products for your business model, inspiring special areas, interesting presentations and an exciting festival specially for visitors to celebrate our 70th anniversary.

www.spielwarenmesse.de/uk

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contents 51

K+J SHOW PREVIEW

39

PRESCHOOL LICENSING

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ELECTRONIC LEARNING

7 17 31 33 37 39 47 51 81 85 89 93 99 121

NEWS Reporting from the preschool sector MEDIA WATCH Looking at the brands making headlines ASK ANNA Playing the game INDUSTRY ANALYSIS The latest industry numbers from GfK ABC EXPO Reasons to visit Las Vegas PRESCHOOL LICENSING A roundup of licensing and entertainment MOONLITE Spinmasters starry new top product K+J SHOW PREVIEW An extensive preview to Europe’s nursery show ELECTRONIC LEARNING Sector update ENTERTAINMENT ONE Talking to the kid’s entertainment giant DOLLS & PLAYSETS Sector update HEALTH AND HYGIENE Sector update MOBILITY S trollers and car seats sector update BEST SELLERS Retailers best sellers and big hits

06/09/2018 18:28

Be part of the bigger picture ...

24 - 26 March 2019

Harrogate Convention Centre, North Yorkshire

The UK’s only baby trade show www.nurseryfair.com Tel: 01902 880906 / 882280 Email: adrian@nurseryfair.com

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NEWS TOP STORY

Below: Last year’s winners enjoy their moment in the spotlight.

Progressive Preschool Awards 2018 finalists announced

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he Progressive Preschool Awards product and retail award finalists have been revealed following an extensive nomination and judging process.

The product judging took place on Tuesday 14 August in London, with entries judged by expert buyers from across the retail spectrum. Thousands of products were entered, totally free of charge, and judged independently on the individual merit of each item.

The judging panel comprised buyers from top retailers including Tesco, Jo Jo Maman Bébé, Argos, Mothercare and many more, as well a number of specialist independent retailers.

The retail judging took place the following week, on Thursday 23 August, with an independent validation panel of cross-category industry experts

discussing the nominated retailers in each category.

Following an interesting morning of friendly debate, six deserving finalists from each category were shortlisted, along with the eventual winners.

“The judging was especially tough this year,” said Rob Willis, publishing director of Progressive Preschool magazine. “Our fantastic judges were presented with a truly impressive slate of entries and the finalists lists are a perfect reflection of the dynamism and creativity seen throughout the preschool sector in 2018.”

The full shortlist of all product category finalists can be seen on pages 23, while

Net-A-Porter launches kidswear pop-up with Gucci Online high-fashion retailer Net-APorter.com has branched out into kidswear for the first time with a children’s Gucci pop-up shop, which will be unveiled on 16 July.

Each logo-embellished, animal-printed or heavily-embroidered piece will be available for babies, girls and boys up to the age of 12. The pieces in the collection are prices between £100 to £2,122.

The Good Toy Guide EN reveals new safety expands into the US standard for baby Child development and play expert sleep bags Fundamentally Children has teamed up with an American testing partner to take its Good Toy Guide Stateside, meaning that US toy companies can now benefit from involvement with the UK-based initiative as it launches across America.

Illinois-based Teach Team has been appointed to carry out the evaluation of toys, apps and children’s products for the US Good Toy Guide.

The company will be carrying out the same stringent accreditation methods and criteria as applied in the UK, bringing the expert, independent reviews to US parents and families.

“Expanding the Good Toy Guide into new territories is the logical next step for us,” said Dr Amanda Gummer, founder and ceo of the Good Toy Guide. “The brand is well-established, trusted and respected by consumers and the industry alike in the UK, and is ready to bring its many benefits to US companies and families, too.”

Any companies wishing to submit products to the US Good Toy Guide should contact Emily De Sousa at Emily@ fundamentallychildren.com

The EN has revealed that a new European Safety Standard, EN16781:2018, has been announced for baby and child sleeping bag, replacing the existing British Safety Standard.

The Gro Company has been working closely with the relevant bodies throughout the development of the new European Safety Standard and has implemented immediate enhancements to product and packaging at the point of manufacture, ensuring that Grobag maintains its position as best in class for Sleep Safety.

“It is important that retailers and anyone involved with selling baby sleep products, are aware that there are Safety Standards for baby sleep bags,” said The Gro Company’s Rob Pascoe. “As an industry we have to advise new parents on what to buy and should have absolute confidence that the products we are selling are in line with the latest safety developments.”

Below: The Gro Company has been working closely to help develop the new European Safety Standard.

the shortlists for the retail, marketing and wholesale categories were announced after PPS went to press.

The winners of the Progressive Preschool Awards will be revealed at an afternoon awards ceremony at The Dorchester Hotel in London on Thursday 8 November 2018. The event includes a champagne reception, three-course lunch, dazzling entertainment and fantastic networking opportunities. For more information and to book your tickets, visit www.preschoolnews.net

Mothercare to close 60 UK stores

Nursery and maternity retailer Mothercare will be closing 60 of its 137 UK stores as it moves into the final stages of its restructuring and refinancing plans.

The move – which will see Mothercare close ten more stores than previously planned – comes after landlords rejected the company’s proposals for rent reductions across its Children’s World stores last month. The additional closures are mainly as a result of the Children’s World subsidiary now entering administration.

The restructure will be carried out through a company voluntary arrangement (CVA), which allows firms to shut loss-making shops and reduce rents. It has received full backing from the retailer’s creditors.

The closures will see Mothercare cut around 900 jobs and make annual savings of about £10m. Mothercare will have a UK store estate of 77 stores by June 2019, with 19 of those stores on reduced rent.

True acquires majority stake in Frugi

Retail and consumer investment and innovation company True has acquired a majority stake in organic kids’ clothing makers, Frugi.

Frugi, which designs, manufactures and sells sustainably-sourced organic cotton apparel and accessories for babies, children and new mothers, will now be expanding its global brand presence, thanks to True’s investment and retail and consumer sector-focused expertise.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Featuring: LEGO, Vtech, Flair Leisure Products, John Adams, K’Nex, Orchard Toys, Ty UK and many more…

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NEWS TOP STORY

Kiddicare store and website closes

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eterborough’s baby and toddler product retailer Kiddicare has been axed by current owner home furnishings giant Dunelm, after almost 45 years in business.

Dunelm – which bought Kiddicare out of administration in December 2016 – has closed the last remaining Kiddicare store and the Kiddicare.com website, with the kids and baby business transferring to the parent company.

The retailer said it had tested Kiddicare as an online and in-store

Inset: The news came after Kiddicare announced a 4.6% sales slump.

brand and concluded that the businesses could be developed most profitably if it was rebranded to Dunelm.

The website has already ceased trading and the Peterborough store

Summer Infant partners with Mumii and Emma’s Diary Nursery product company Summer Infant has partnered with Mumii and Emma’s Diary as part of a continued investment in its marketing efforts.

The new partnerships will see Summer Infant giving its new Baby Pixel monitor a boost with the help of Emma’s Diary pregnancy app, while its My Bath Seat will be benefiting from a comprehensive campaign with Mumii

Brands confirm for HINF 2019

Baby brands across the UK are looking forward to 2019, with many companies already confirming their attendance at Harrogate International Nursery Fair, taking place from 24 – 26 March, 2019.

One hall of the Harrogate International Convention Centre is almost fully booked and the others are filling up quickly.

“The show enjoyed a fresh format this year, utilising new halls which proved hugely successful and feedback has been extremely positive,” said show organiser Adrian Sneyd. “Exhibitors and visitors alike both commented on how well the new layout worked; contributing to a renewed vibrancy and because of this companies are securing their positions early for next year’s show.”

More information is available at www.nurseryfair.com or contact Adrian directly at adrian@ nurseryfair.com

taking place from September onwards.

“This latest burst of marketing activity will be focused on driving a deeper level of awareness and engagement for our new hero products and allows us to connect with parents and parents-to-be in an effective, targeted way,” says Charlotte Young, marketing and product development coordinator at Summer Infant.

Toymaster reveals trading update and new hire

Toymaster has confirmed that the first half of 2018 has seen group purchases increase 4.4% on 2017, compared to NPD results from the end of May which show that the UK toy market is down 9% YTD. The news comes as the buying group appoints a new retail manager. Brian McLaughlin brings a number of years’ experience of the toy trade from his time at both Toys R Us and Early Learning Centre.

“The timing of this appointment shows the board believes in both the future of independent toy retailers and the opportunities for both member expansion and to gain new members,” said a Toymaster spokesperson. “The retail landscape continues to change and the removal of Toys R Us from the marketplace will allow space for specialist toy retailers to open stores in locations now devoid of a destination toy shop.”

Bing Live stage show tour extends into 2019

Due to popular demand, Acamar Films and Minor Entertainment have extended the Bing Live UK stage show tour into 2019.

Bing Live will now play an additional 20 venues from 5 January until 28 April, 2019. The newly-announced dates strengthen the existing sell-out performances across 40 venues already confirmed throughout 2018.

is expected to close at some point during the 2019 financial year.

“Some 18 months after bringing the Kiddicare brand into the business, we are now confident that the most effective and simplest route forwards is to operate this category under the Dunelm brand,” said a spokesperson.

At the height of its success, Kiddicare was a £40million turnover business employing around 200 people. It was sold for £70million to supermarket chain Morrisons in 2011 before being sold to private equity firm Endless for just £2 million.

DreamToys dates announced for 2018

This year’s DreamToys event will take place on Wednesday 14 November at St Mary’s Church in Marylebone, London.

DreamToys is the major media initiative run by the Toy Retailers Association and supported by suppliers from across the industry.

It is widely recognised as the most authoritative predictive list for the top toys for Christmas.

“We are delighted to confirm the date and location for this year’s DreamToys event,” said TRA director general, Natasha Crookes. “DreamToys 2017 achieved a value of more than £7 million in media and social coverage at a vital time for the toy industry and we look forward to continuing to promote the toy industry to the Christmas gift market.”

Maxi-Cosi partners with Brake to champion safer roads

Car seat manufacturer Maxi-Cosi has partnered with national road safety charity Brake to help champion safer roads in the UK. The collaboration will see Maxi-Cosi raise awareness of road safety through a nationwide banner sponsorship, support of Brake’s Road Safety Week (running 19 – 25 November 2018) and ongoing collaborations throughout the year.

“We are proud of our position as experts in the car seat and road safety industry,” said Maxi-Cosi’s marketing manager UK, Debbie Wakefield. “For us the Brake message is synonymous with our values at Maxi-Cosi, so partnering up has proven to be a natural progression as we embark on an exciting strategy of product development and thoughtleadership for 2018 and beyond.”

For thewww.progressive-preschool.com latest news visit PreschoolNews.net PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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NEWS TOP STORY

LEGO research says families that play more are happier

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he LEGO ‘Play Well Report’ surveyed nearly 13,000 parents and children in nine countries to understand the state of play today and encourage discussion around its ongoing importance.

The report reveals a strong link between the hours spent playing together and the happiness of families, with nine out of 10 families (88%) who play for five hours or more a week claiming to be happy, while only seven out of 10 (75%) of those who play for less than five hours a week say they are happy.

Playtime is being squeezed, with nearly a third (30%) of families spending less than five hours playing together every week and one in 10 (10%) playing

BLE to relocate to ExCeL London in 2019

UBM has confirmed that the Brand Licensing Europe trade show is relocating to ExCeL London from 2019, as part of its ambitious strategy to evolve the show, attract even more European licensees, retailers and licensors and improve the customer experience for both visitors and exhibitors.

UBM has cited the accessibility and flexibility of space at ExCeL, as well as the thriving out-of-hours social scene the area offers.

“Moving BLE to east London makes perfect business sense on all sides,” said BLE brand director, Anna Knight. “Over one third of our visitors fly in from continental Europe and we have big plans to grow this – let’s not forget, the show is called Brand Licensing Europe – and the Elizabeth Line a direct link from ExCeL to Heathrow Airport in just 40 minutes. City Airport is close by and there are three DLR stations onsite.”

Recaro Child Safety to close after 20 years Recaro has closed the Child Safety division of its company, which manufactures children’s car seats and strollers. Business operations have already ended, although products will continue to be sold until 31 December 2018.

Poor sales and competitive market forced the business to make the difficult decision to close the division, exactly 20 years after its first infant car seat was launched to the market.

Recaro has said it will honour consumers’ warranties until the end of 2019.

for less than two hours. Over a third of those surveyed (38%) admitted they struggle to prioritise playtime due to hectic daily schedules.

The report also reveals that children are creating a new type of ‘fluid play’ where they naturally engage in play that blends real world, imaginary and digital experiences.

“The beauty of play is that it evolves and changes with each generation, yet its benefits remain constant,” said Julia Goldin, LEGO Group cmo. “This report shows that digitalisation is providing more opportunities for immersive play.

“We will continue to evolve LEGO play to seamlessly integrate digital and physical experiences for kids to ensure

K+J ‘Support Circle’ programme revealed

The event programme for Kind + Jugend 2018 (20 – 23 September, 2018) has been announced. Billed as the ‘Support Circle’, it will provide trade visitors with quick access to the most important information about the prestigious awards, special events, Trend Forum and a number of networking platforms.

The award programme includes the Kids Design Award (which honours outstanding concepts and designs), The Innovation Award (which honours outstanding new developments) and the Kind + Jugend Consumer Award (which is judged by consumers and parents) all taking place during the show itself.

In-show exhibitions are also a popular source of information.

The Connected Kidsroom deals with the topic of digitalisation, presenting new technologies that can be used in the nursery, while the special Design Parc event focuses on objects, furniture and toys with an extraordinary design.

The Trend Forum takes an overview of which products will be important for parents and children in the future and which trends will be reflected in children’s rooms. The panel includes trend researchers from GfK, Trendbible and The Insights People.

Visit www.kindundjugend.de to find out more.

that they can continue to benefit from playful learning,” continued Julia. “Play continues to be essential for children and we have a role in helping parents to provide the best possible experiences for their kids and to protect and prioritise play time.”

Above: LEGO play will evolve to seamlessly integrate digital and physical experiences.

LICENSING LOOKOUT ▶ The licensing programme is continuing to build for classic brand The Very Hungry Caterpillar ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2019 – with Galt, Insect Lore, Hallmark and Bon Bon Buddies all coming onboard. ▶ Golden Bear has signed as the master toy licensee for Waffle the Wonder Dog – the CBeebies live-action comedy series from Darrall Macqueen. ▶ Cybex has launched a new Cybex for Scuderia Ferrari collection in partnership with Ferrari. ▶ JCB Kids is continuing to strengthen its licensing programme, teaming with High Resolution Design to launch a new line of JCB plush. ▶ TOMY International has added Incredibles 2 to its popular Lamaze infant toy brand. ▶ Iconic British brands Silver Cross and Aston Martin have teamed up to unveil a new world exclusive, the Silver Cross Reflex Aston Martin Edition. ▶ Costume and party company Smiffys adds Peter Rabbit collection to its preschool dress-up offering. ▶ High fashion designer Stella McCartney has launched a Beanoinspired childrenswear range as part of a partnership to celebrate the iconic comic book’s 80th birthday. ▶ Preschool property Super Wings reveals new collaboration with Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline. ▶ Rainbow Designs has sealed a deal with Bulldog Licensing for a new baby range inspired by Usborne’s That’s not my… brand.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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TOP STORY

Right: PAW Patrol was the highest ranked preschool property for the first half of 2018.

Toy industry sales grow in first half of 2018

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oy industry sales reached $18.4 billion in the first half of 2018, a 4% increase over last year, according to the latest data from NPD Group.

NPD tracks 13 international markets, with its latest data showing that Mexico grew the fastest (+15%), followed

by Brazil (+11%) and the US (+7%).

Reusable sales soar by 400% as consumers avoid plastics

Sales of reusable nursery products such as muslins, wipes, breast pads and nappies have risen by 400% as the consumer demand for more environmentallyfriendly products increases, reports Merrygoround UK, owner of the MuslinZ and Bright Bots brands.

Caroline Taylor, owner of MuslinZ, says sales of the re-useable range have increased by 400% in July, following the social media movement Pass On Plastic and its #PlasticFreeJuly challenge. “We are increasing our production as the demand will continue to increase as more consumers switch,” she explains.

“Parents and carers of babies and young children are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of using disposable items such as wipes, nappies and breast pads and are looking for alternatives.”

Baby To Toddler returns for 2018

The Baby To Toddler show will be returning for its third year in 2018 as the two events – taking place from 17 – 18 November at ExCeL London and 24 – 15 November at Birmingham NEC – will play host to some of the biggest baby and toddler brands on the market.

Organised by Clarion, Baby to Toddler offers parents and parents-to-be the best products at the best prices for growing families.

“For busy parents and parents-to-be, it can be difficult to find time to shop for your child,” said show manager Susanne Rauberger. “Baby to Toddler takes the strain out of shopping and is a great opportunity to discover trusted and new brands. There will also be lots of fantastic offers across the weekends with many visitors making the most of the Black Friday deals!”

For more information please visit www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk.

Europe posted a 1% decline as growth in Germany, Russia, Italy and Spain was offset by slight declines in other countries.

“Traditional play patterns, collectables, social media and innovation are the major themes we saw trending globally in the first six months of the year, and I expect they will continue to accelerate,” said Frédérique Tutt, global

Lansinoh celebration makes national press A series of photographs celebrating breastfeeding, taken as part of a collaboration with breastfeeding brand Lansinoh, have made the national press and gone viral online.

The pictures were commissioned by Lansinoh for World Breastfeeding Week to help normalise the natural process of breastfeeding.

“Even though every mother has a different journey, they are all united in the undisputed love and dedication they have in caring for their baby,” said Lansinoh’s ceo Kevin Vyse-Peacock.

Inset: The project celebrated breastfeeding across different cultures.

Nursery inventors come together for K+J show

Nursery Industry Productpreneurs Association (NIPA Baby) is a group of inventors working within the nursery industry who have come together to exhibit at this year’s Kind + Jugend show in Cologne (20 – 23 September 2018).

The baby and children’s product inventors have banded together to form the notfor-profit association. The unique group is dedicated to inventors-turned-entrepreneurs, offering mutual support and helping to combat copies.

The NIPA Baby association began life as a Facebook group and is now a formally incorporated company which includes more than 40 members who have created innovative and original products for babies and children.

toys industry analyst at The NPD Group.

“More than entertainment, brands have been an important trend to move the needle for the industry so far this year.”

NEWS IN BRIEF ▶ A pparel licensee Aykroyd & Sons is celebrating 100 years in business this year and marked the milestone anniversary with a number of special activities and celebrations throughout July. ▶ C arrier and wrap company Baby K’tan has taken on three new international distribution partnerships; Luna Bebé (Mexico), Lucina (Iceland) and Paninti Baby (Indonesia). ▶ Bumbleride – the Californian company behind a range of urban outdoor strollers – will be returning to the UK this autumn thanks to Bebe Brands. ▶ Car seat brand Cozy N Safe has been voted in at number nine in a list of emerging brands of 2018 by one of the leading Chinese nursery industry websites, Baobei360.com. ▶ Hippychick is looking to further grow its Nattou range of soft toys and comforters, with a number of new additions hitting retail shelves this autumn. ▶ Breastfeeding brand Medela has been voted most the popular breastpump manufacturer, according to consumer watchdog Which?, with more than a third of mums choosing a Medela pump. ▶ Smart Toys and Games is to further grow its SmartGames and SmartMax offerings following the success of its existing products. ▶ Car seat and child safety company Swandoo, which is based in China, has appointed Bébélephant as its UK distributor following a successful Kind + Jugend show in 2017. ▶ The Taf Toys award winning range of developmental baby products has launched in homewares retailer Dunelm through UK distributor Halilit. ▶ TOMY has been busy rounding up some of its key preschool toy lines, including Johnny Tractor, Aquadoodle and Thomas & Friends, ready for the all-important Christmas run in.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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TOP STORY

Right: The Entertainer is expanding into its seventh international territory.

The Entertainer continues global expansion plan

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oy retailer The Entertainer is expanding into its seventh international territory after securing a partnership with retail start-up Axiom in Kosovo.

The deal will see The Entertainer open its doors for the first time this summer in the country with a store in the premium shopping destination Albi Mall, which is already home to international retailers including Nike, Diesel, Pandora and Ted Baker.

A quarter of kids products are licensed, says NPD Group

Local businessmen Taulant Rexhepi and Hekuran Neziri – who head up Axiom – contacted The Entertainer to discuss the opportunity of working together, having identified a gap in the market.

“The Entertainer is delighted to welcome the Axiom team as new partners,” said Gary Grant, founder and chairman of The Entertainer.

“Having recently announced a franchise partnership in Egypt, we’re

Independent Toy and Gift Show set for 2019

The dates have been confirmed for next year’s Independent Toy and Gift Show, with the popular event set to take place on April 29 and 30.

The event will once again be held at Cranmore Park in Shirley, Solihull and will be showcasing ranges from major toy companies and suppliers who are popular with independent toy buyers. Having successfully incorporated a show theme over the last few years, the theme of the 2019 event will be puzzles and jigsaws.

Hosted by plaY-room – the toy division of buying group Associated Independent Stores – the show is open to all independent toy and children’s gift buyers and is renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, along with its relaxed buying environment.

Exhibitor bookings will open in October.

Licensed products account for one quarter of unit sales in the US for children aged 14 and under, according to the latest available statistics from NPD Group. The US Kids License Tracker goes on to highlight that ages three to five are the largest group for licensed sales based on units sold, accounting for almost 30%.

PAW Patrol was the number one licence, capturing the largest share of sales in the age group. The industries which over-indexed in this age group included toys, games and puzzles; arts and crafts; and health and beauty.

During the period (Q4 2017), licensed Bigjigs Toys is expanding its educational sales for children amounted to $17 billion in offering following the acquisition of family consumer spending, with clothing the largest business Agenta Education. sector, followed by toys, games and puzzles.

“After 30 years of trading as Agenta, the Vargerson family has decided to retire from the educational supply business,” explained md, Steve Vargerson. “With the recent loss of founder Les, it seems a right and wise decision to bow out. We are delighted to Independent childrenswear retailer The Pud pass on our business to team at Bigjigs Toys.”

Store, currently based in Doncaster and Newark, will be expanding across the Midlands, thanks to Barclays Bank, which is funding two new stores.

The process began when the bank approached founder Frances Bishop to see if she had any expansion plans in place. The The Gro Company is looking to expand deal was finalised just four weeks later and the its Grofriend sleep aid range after first new store will be based in Mansfield, with enjoying significant success in the toy Lincoln due to open by the end of the year. space with its first product.

“Barclays has made it The introduction of Grofriend clear that they are ready sleep aid Ollie the Owl has meant the to support me through company’s toy and comforter business expansion and I’m going to has performed ‘beyond our expectations give it my all,” said Frances. this year’, according to group “My vision has always been commercial and marketing director, Rob clear to make The Pud Store Pascoe. a larger brand and this is The Grofriend sleep aid range will allowing me to do that.” now expand later this year with further animal characters and is launching with Left: The Pud Store, which also Percy the Penguin, which will also have a won Best Independent Apparel Retailer at the Progressive coordinating comforter.

Bigjigs Toys acquires Agenta Education

Barclays to back The Pud Store expansion

The Gro Company enjoying toy success

Preschool Awards 2017.

delighted to reveal we’re soon to be opening in Kosovo.”

He continued; “Following the success of the launch we also want to expand into neighbouring countries such as Macedonia and Albania. 2018 is all about growing our business in Europe and the Far East and we are excited to see what the rest of the year brings.”

The Entertainer currently has 145 shops in the UK, plus 20 international stores through its partnerships.

PEOPLE NEWS ▶ Beaba has appointed Cath Needham to join the brand and its sister company Red Castle as national account manager, to support ongoing business growth in the UK. ▶ Emelyne Bradley has joined the Ruk-bug team as sales and marketing director in time for the brand’s key launch at Kind + Jugend 2018. ▶ Jeremy Robinson has joined Fundamentally Children as new head of business development, having previously held positions at Schleich and Tomy. ▶ Little Brother Books has strengthened its sales team with John Pilley coming on board as new head of sales, as the company cements its position in the market as an annuals specialist. ▶ Playmobil continues to strengthen its international management team with the appointment of toy-industry veteran Mark Foster as managing director for Playmobil UK and North America.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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The perfect bed for your newborn baby.

We’ll miss you at K&J this year as we’re busy working on some exciting new developments.

Watch this space!

trade enquiries - accounts@mobauk.com mobauk.com

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MEDI A WATCH

IN THE

Public Eye

In Media Watch, Progressive Preschool takes a look at the preschool products featuring in the consumer press and social media to find out what will be in demand at retail over the coming months.

Supermarket Our edit of what’s new and exciting to add to your shopping list this month

Too cute?

Speedy supper

How gorgeous are these new reusable Swim Nappies from Bambino Mio? They’re functional, too, with a concealed water-resistant layer, leak-proof legs, and a drawstring waistband to keep the nappy secure and comfortable.

Super-soft against your baby’s delicate skin, they’re machine-washable and just the job for the beach or pool this summer.

From birth to two years, £9.99, morrisons.com

Finding the time to make healthy, homemade meals every day can be challenging when you’re weaning – and Lickalix Baby Cübes offer a fast solution for an evening off.

The frozen cubes of puréed organic fruit and veg are ready to use in 30 seconds, on their own or mixed into yoghurt, porridge or rice. £4.99 for 20 cubes, ocado.com

Hubble bubble…

Need a little magic to entice your toddler into the bath?

Pop a bottle of Asda’s new Colour Changing Bubble Bath in your trolley. Let your tot be in charge of squeezing a dollop of this

potion into the bath – we won’t ruin the surprise and tell you what colour the water turns! £1.27, asda.com

WORDS EMILY THORPE

Flying off the shelves… PINEAPPLE PARTY

£10 direct.asda.com

£8 tuclothing.sainsburys.com

£4 tesco.com

£7.50 tuclothing. sainsburys.com

£6 direct.asda.com

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Are You Beach Ready?

The August issue of Mother & Baby magazine highlighted the one thing a baby needs to be ‘beach ready’. The new reusable swim nappies from Bambino Mio are available in a number of different prints and were described as ‘just the job for the beach or the pool this summer’. They featured in the popular ‘Supermarket Buys’ section of the magazine.

RUNNING HEAD

PREPARATION

ARM CANDY HOT LIST

Getting your bits and pieces ready for delivery day may be an essential job but that doesn’t mean it has to weigh you down. Find a bag you love, make a list and you’ll have one less thing to do before you know it. After all, who doesn’t love a spot of bag shopping…

Pack your bags

Storksak duffle £150, babynizer.co.uk

The water-repellent bag features a stylish fabric and includes a matching wash bag

Nylon weekender £160, jemandbea.com

hat starts off as a rather therapeutic task can soon become quite the opposite. Packing your hospital bag can be tricky because you don’t want to pack things you won’t use and end up with a bag that’s too heavy to carry, but at the same time you want to have the peace of mind that anything you might need will be easy to get hold of. Just remember – if all goes well, you won’t be in hospital for very long, and if you do have to stay longer, you can always ask your partner or a family member to bring you anything you may have overlooked.

The first thing I would advise is to call your hospital and ask what they will provide so you can tick those bits off your list. After that, pack two bags – one for you and one for baby. Inside baby’s bag, have a small pocket or separate compartment for the things you will need straight after birth. This could also take the form of a labelled freezing bag. Make sure to show your partner where everything is and explain your packing process to them. And don’t forget to pack any personal notes too.

In your bag, pack everything you would take for a short weekend away. Buy all your daily essentials fresh – like your toothbrush, toothpaste and soap – so you can put them in your bag in advance rather than having to remember them when labour has set in.

The other option, and the reason I set up Babynizer last year, is to purchase a prepacked hospital bag. With Babynizer you can buy a suitcase or changing bag with all the essentials you’ll need already packed inside, or you can just buy small bundles of fillings for your own bag instead. Next stop, delivery…

W

AS TH E BIG DAY N E AR S, FOU N DER OF BABYNIZER Judy Goldberg R EVE AL S H ER TOP TIPS FOR H OSPITAL BAG SUCCE SS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

buys Shop!

SEPT 2018

Cotton-mix bag £184, theophile-patachou.com

Cotton-mix nursing bag £71, camcamcopenhagen.com

Hard-shell spinner case £319, samsonite.co.uk Vegan leather bag £178, zellieadventure.com

Blossom Paris changing bag £74, smallable.com

Don’t know where to start? Head to baby-magazine.co.uk/ hospital-bag to download our checklist!

82 | baby-magazine.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 83

Bag It Up

A two-page feature on the ‘hospital bag’ ran in the September issue of Baby magazine, with the founder of Babynizer (a London-based maternity concierge service) revealing her top tips. Zellie Adventure’s Woburn designer black changing bag set was highlighted, which has been designed for the whole journey, from hospital bag to changing and travel bag.

Flying High This clever travel mattress from Sky Baby was highlighted in the June 2018 issue of Gurgle magazine. The clever small-fold wrap essentially turns a parent’s lap into a mattress, allowing them to keep the baby in a comfortable and safe sleeping position. It supports the child’s head, allowing parents both hands to eat, drink, read and relax.

Good In The Hood The July issue of Baby magazine featured The Hoodie Carrier, the clever new innovation from Je Porte Mon Bébé baby carrier in the news and new product pages. “The latest innovation from the French brand is unlike anything we’ve seen before,” said the editorial which accompanied a striking image which dominated the page.

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MEDI A WATCH

Feeling Blue

Hit The Road

The latest colour options for the Beaba Babycook food processor have been getting a lot of publicity, so its no surprise that the stylish blue option from the popular Macaron range was chosen to feature in the October issue of Baby Magazine. The aquamarine blue shade saw the Babycook sitting alongside sweet prints, soft furnishings and gift sets in an edit inspired by ‘the skies above’.

A feature on travel systems in the October 2018 issue of Baby magazine got things off to an unconventional start by beginning the feature with the Doona car seat/stroller hybrid. The editorial points out that the Doona is a ‘clever bit of kit’ and is the ‘perfect choice for quick trips to the shops or school run dashes’, highlighting that it is still the only car seat with integrated wheels.

Fashionable Feeding The Medela Freestyle Double Electric Breast Pump was featured in Hello Magazine during World Breastfeeding Week in a feature named Mother Knows Best. It led with a picture of model Mara Martin breastfeeding her five-month-old daughter on the catwalk in Miami and spoke of the UK’s low breastfeeding figures, included the Medela pump at the end of the piece.

Toilet Training Tips Amanda Jenner, inventor of My Carry Potty, appeared on ITV’s This Morning on Thursday 16 August in an expert advice section on potty training. The segment focused on the toilet training crisis in the UK, which currently sees teachers wasting hours of lesson time a year toilet training primary pupils, with up to 70% of schools reporting that children are starting school in nappies.

SEPT 2018 The PR companies, distributors and suppliers featured in this issue of Media Watch are: Bambino Mio, Media Snug (Zellie), Sky Baby (Nicki Hughes PR), Je Porte Mon Bébé, Azaria PR (Beaba), Bump PR (Doona, Medela), Cheeky Rascals (My Carry Potty), MerryGoRound (Muslinz).

Going Green As part of a two-page feature on green parenting and ecofriendly option, the summer issue of Mummy & Me magazine featured the new Mint Green range from Muslinz alongside its reusable breast pads, made with soft, unbleached bamboo and cotton terry cloth, making them both eco-friendly and economical.

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PPS Awards DPS New 2018.qxp_Layout 1 06/09/2018 17:46 Page 1

The Progressive Preschool Awards take place on Thursday 8 November 2018, at The Dorchester Hotel in Mayfair, London.

The Product Award Categories • Best Preschool Apparel or Accessories Range • Best Preschool Toy Range • Best Preschool Development or STEM Range • Best Preschool Reading or Writing Range • Best Preschool Home or Furniture Range • Best Preschool Mobility Range • Best Preschool Gift Range • Best Preschool Essentials Range • The Innovation Award • Best Wholesaler or Distributor Award

The Retail Award Categories • • • • • • •

Best Supermarket Retailer Best Multiple Retailer Best Mixed Retailer Best Department Store Retailer Best Online Retailer Best Preschool Retail Initiative Best Independent Nursery Retailer • Best Independent Apparel Retailer • Best Independent Toy Retailer • Best Independent Gift Retailer

The Special Awards • Best Preschool Marketing and Communication Campaign • The Outstanding Achievement Award Book tickets or tables now to avoid disappointment Please contact Clare Davies, Createvents Ltd: T: 0118 3340085 E: clare@createvents.co.uk W: createvents.co.uk

www.PreschoolNews.net

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“What a great honour to receive the award. We have had great support from a fantastic group of suppliers partners that have worked hard with us in order to deliver a customer-focused range.”

Dawn Lavalette, head of buying for It’s a great honour to win an award toys and nursery, Tesco.

“It is amazing for Sainsbury’s Argos to be recognised in the PPS Awards, and I feel incredibly proud of my team who have worked many late nights to deliver a fantastic preschool offering.”

Chris Watters, buying manager preschool, Sainsbury’s Argos.

2018 Sponsors include...

that is so respected in the industry, and it’s a fantastic event from start to finish.”

Nikki Samuels, director, Sambro

“Our first time at the PPS awards and it was a really great event! We were thrilled to win top honours, with great recognition for the Spin 360 car seat, in what was clearly a hotly contested category.”

David Welsh, managing director, Joie UK

Misirli

creating essentials with flair Juratoys_Layout 1 06/03/2018 15:04 Page 1

Play different……

with Janod

Make children HAPPY through the simple pleasure of play 32 High Park Road, Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 4BH United Kingdom Tel +44 (0)20 8878 2133

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P ROG RES S I V E P RES CH OOL AWA RDS 2018 FI N A LI ST S

preschoolnews.net/ppswards

PRODUCT CATEGORY FINALISTS

The Progressive Preschool Awards take place on Thursday 8 November at The Dorchester Hotel in London. To book tickets or tables, please contact Createvents on 0118 3340085. @Prog_Preschool #PPSA18

BEST PRESCHOOL TOY RANGE • Fit and Fun range from Chicco • First Years range from Fiesta Crafts • Magical unicorn carriage from Little Tikes • Moonlite starter kit, gift pack and story reel from Spinmaster Toys • Peppa Pig puzzle and games from Ravensburger • Unicorn and giraffe Happy Hopperz from Hippychick

BEST PRESCHOOL DEVELOPMENT OR STEM RANGE • 123 Build It from Learning Resources • EDUSHAPE Sensory and STEM range from Halilit • Fat Brain Toys range from The Green Board Game Co. • Look and Find jigsaws from Orchard Toys

• PJ Masks nightwear range from TDP Textiles • That’s Not My… range for Mothercare from Paul Dennicci • Winnie the Pooh babywear for Nutmeg from Blues Clothing

BEST PRESCHOOL READING OR WRITING RANGE • Bing Books from Harper Collins Children’s Books • Hats of Faith from Shade7 Publishing • Pop-Up Peekaboo! From DK • Roald Dahl’s 123 and Roald Dahl’s Opposites from Penguin Random House Children’s • Tiny Town range from Imagine That Publishing • The New Baby by Lisa Stickley from Pavilion Books

• Toomies bath range from TOMY • Touch and Learn activity desk from VTECH Electronics

BEST PRESCHOOL HOME OR FURNITURE RANGE • Little Stars moses basket set from Moba

BEST PRESCHOOL APPAREL OR ACCESSORIES RANGE • Following Water collection from Little Green Radicals • Gruffalo nightwear for Debenhams from Aykroyds & Sons • Mermaid and spaceman rainwear from Powell Craft

• Multiply 6-in-1 from Joie • Owl story cot liner from Breathable Baby • Pixie nightlight from Beaba • Petit Collage Growth Charts from Wild + Wolf • PurFlo – Keep Me Close breathable crib from WHL Europe

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P ROG RES S I V E P RES CH OOL AWA RDS 2018 FI N A LI ST S

preschoolnews.net/ppswards

PRODUCT CATEGORY FINALISTS

The Progressive Preschool Awards take place on Thursday 8 November at The Dorchester Hotel in London. To book tickets or tables, please contact Createvents on 0118 3340085. @Prog_Preschool #PPSA18

BEST PRESCHOOL MOBILITY RANGE • ABC Salsa 4 from Obaby • Eezy S Twist from Cybex • i-Level car seat from Joie • Quail by EGG from BabyStyle UK • Team modular system from Peg Perego • Traverze stroller from Diono

BEST PRESCHOOL ESSENTIALS RANGE • Flippa dining booster from Apramo • For Little Adventures travel collection from Silvercloud Trading • Grobath range from The Gro Company • Pop-in reusable nappy range from Close • Travel accessories range from LittleLife • Travelnest from Babymoov

BEST PRESCHOOL GIFT RANGE • Flora the animated bunny from Enesco

THE INNOVATION AWARD

• Janod wooden toys collection from Juratoys

• Baby Hug 4-in-1 from Chicco

• Lamaze range from TOMY • Petilou range from Le Toy Van • Sophie La girafe sophisticated collection from 1 Two Kids • Taf Toys North Pole collection from Halilit

• Itsy Blitz from Itsy Products • Nutribaby from Babymoov • Olala Trio night lights from Olala Boutique • Pura Stainless infant bottle pink swirl from Pura Kiki • Rockit from Rockit

For ticket information Please contact Clare Davies, Createvents Ltd: T: 01183 340085 E: clare@createvents.co.uk PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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04/09/2018 12:59

COLU MN I ST

OFFERING SOMETHING ASK ANNA SPECIAL In her latest column for Progressive Preschool, Anna offers some top tips for toy retailers looking to reach out to the disability market.

Anna Taylor is a research assistant at Fundamentally Children, an organisation dedicated to helping children develop skills through play. www.fundamentallychildren.com

“

Outside of the toy market, businesses are quickly realising the value of marketing to consumers with disabilities and the value of the ‘purple pound’.

In the UK, 800,000 children have a disability of some sort – that’s at least one in every 20 children that visits your store [1]. So instead of thinking of this as a ‘niche’ market, why not be part of the growing drive to promote inclusivity?

INCLUSIVE TOYS I’d like start off by pointing out that almost all toys are accessible. Certain toys will be more interesting than others but it’s likely that you have some toys on your shelves right now that are perfect for a child with a disability.

I’m going to focus on toys for children with visual and hearing impairments as examples, but it’s worth familiarising yourself with other needs that children may have.

CHILDREN WITH A HEARING IMPAIRMENT Four babies are born deaf every day in the UK, nine in 10 of them to parents with no experience of deafness and no idea what to expect [2].

I would first suggest toys that have Right: Black and white different textures and materials, lights, high contrast imagery is ideal for children mirrors and movement, as multiwith limited vision. sensory stimulation is important. Toys that light up or move in response to loss. Bright colours and high contrasts can be the easiest for them to see and pressing a button are good too.

Total hearing loss is rare, so you play with. needn’t write-off toys with sound. In If the child has some level of vision, fact, these can help improve certain you may want to ask the parents what listening skills, such as the ability to colour the floor is that their child will discriminate between different sounds. be playing on; a dark coloured toy on a Be aware that some noise levels can dark floor will be harder to see and play cause discomfort for children, so if with than a light coloured toy. recommending these toys, choose ones Toys for children with a visual impairment should offer the chance to that you know have volume control.

Children who are deaf may need explore different materials and textures. extra support learning to communicate. This could be building block sets with ‘Classic’ toys without batteries – such different shapes, or toys that encourage as age-appropriate books, jigsaw sand and water play. Some children who puzzles and building blocks – are are blind don’t like stuffed toys, because thought to be best for encouraging the lack of distinct boundaries can be confusing. communication [3].

Musical toys can also help children Children with a visual impairment practise the rhythm needed for language tend to start walking at a later stage than others, so they may prefer ride-ons or skills [4]. pretend play toys – such as a shopping trolley or pram – over a baby walker.

CHILDREN WITH A VISUAL IMPAIRMENT Of the 26,000 children in the UK who CONCLUSION have a visual impairment, two-thirds of Having a child with a disability is them were diagnosed at birth or within rewarding, but can also be stressful and even isolating for parents. So they will the first year of their life [5].

As with children who are deaf, appreciate more than any other parent it is rare for children with a visual those retailers who go that extra mile to impairment to have complete vision understand their child.”

Inset: Bubbles are a popular sensory play activity.

Sources: 1. 1. https://www.dlf.org.uk/content/key-facts 2. http://www.ndcs.org.uk/about_us/about_the_ national_deaf_childrens_society/index.html 3. https://www.hearinglikeme.com/best-toys-for-

hearing-impaired-babies/ 4. http://www.ndcs.org.uk/family_support/0_ to_4_years/playtime_tips.html 5. https://www.rnib.org.uk/key-facts-aboutvision-impairment-children-and-young-people

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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The Very Best of Disney Classics!

©Disney

Available Now! 9 characters in 3 sizes

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I N DU ST RY I N S I G H TS

As one of the world’s largest market research companies, GfK offers retailers and suppliers valuable insight into the way people live, think and shop. Here, senior client insight manager Alex Hall takes a look at how consumer preference for the latest technology helps drive growth.

HIGH-END PRODUCTS ARE KEY

I

“

Inset: High-end strollers and buggies have given the market a boost.

n the middle of 2018, the UK economy improved slightly, compared to the second half of last year. This environment has helped the recovery of many categories across both small and major domestic appliances.

While of course affected by this, the success of the babycare market also correlates to other aspects of the market – such as the UK’s declining birth rate – a factor that is affecting sales across many segments.

This is certainly the case for the stroller market, where volume sales have declined by 5% over the last 12 months.

Car seats have also suffered, showing almost a double digit decline at 9%. The total mobility market value (strollers Below: Mobility is one of the most important nursery sectors at retail.

and car seats combined) is £447m, with an overall volume decrease of 8%. This is set aginst the rest of the nursery market which saw turnover grow by 3%, driven by an average price increase of 12%.

Within the stroller category, the buggy segment (defined as suitable for second stage only as the child is transported in an upright position), accounts for almost half of volume and is seeing a slight decline both in volume and value compared to 2017. On the other side, the travel system category has seen a remarkable growth in value led by the ‘compatible’ and ‘two-in-one’ models, growing by 8% and 14% respectively.

The average price for compatible travel systems increased by 24%,

rising to £340. This is an increase of £66 year-on-year as consumers are choosing to trade up to more premium models. The average price paid for a two-in-one model is £477; a growth of almost £40 compared to last year.

A similar dynamic is also occurring in the car seat category, which has declined by 9% in volume, but grown by 5% in value. This dynamic is primarily explained by the Isofix models which provide a more secure and easier way of attaching child seats in cars. These are naturally more expensive when compared to those with belt fittings (approximately £160 vs £64). The Isofix models account now for the 45% of category turnover and market share is growing by 18% year-on-year.

The introduction of EU safety regulation for child car seats is also shifting sales towards i-Size models, with sales volumes growing by 23% at an average price of £225.

In a market where consumer demand has declined, it’s quite clear that UK consumers are purchasing less but remain willing to look for more highend products. This is specially true within the baby care categories where higher-end product is synonymous with safety as well as quality.

The current scenario can be seen as a good opportunity for both retailers and manufacturers to face an overall falling consumers’ demand with a more premium assortment in order to maximize their turnover. Also for this reason, targeted promotional activities can have a big impact on the market.”

Data Points *GfK Point of Sales Tracking | Baby Care | Jul ‘17 – Jun ‘18 vs Jun ‘16 – Jul ‘17.

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COLU MN I ST

A PARENT THE CALL OF THE PERSPECTIVE CHARACTER

In her latest column for Progressive Preschool, columnist Lisa – a blogger, graphic designer and parent to three-yearold Taylor and baby Harriet – takes a look at the power of licensed preschool product.

Honest and upfront thoughts on parenting from columnist, blogger and parent-of-two Lisa Beever. www.leeleeloves.co.uk

“

R

emember the days prechildren, where you’re the perfect parent to your hypothetical kids?

But then you actually have children and that perfect hypothetical wall comes crashing down?

Being a parent is filled with moments where you find yourself doing the things you swore you never would. Like that time you said your kids would never eat a Happy Meal or watch an iPad. Mine is sitting in the back on the car as I type this, playing on his iPad having just had McDonalds at the services.

But I’ve made it 4.5 hours in the car without screaming and shouting so it’s worth it, right?

In the early stages of being firsttime parents we were naive. We told ourselves our little one would only play with wooden toys. That we wouldn’t have a house filled with plastic or ‘character’ toys. And he wouldn’t wear t-shirts featuring his favourite TV characters. We just wouldn’t buy into it.

Who were we kidding? Far from avoiding them, we have instead found ourselves completely overrun

by licensed toys and clothing. From the mountain of Bing! Bunny toys Taylor had as a toddler to the evergrowing PJ Masks and Rescue Bots collection he has today. If it isn’t a licensed product emblazoned with their favourite TV characters, do they even want it?

I spent a small fortune on beautiful wooden toys when Taylor was a baby. Toys like the Grimms rainbow that I just had to have – but that’s the whole point; I had to have it, not him. He couldn’t have cared less at the time.

The wooden instruments that are now loved by the baby are still ignored by the three-year old. The wooden blocks were ignored in place of the large plastic blocks. He knows what he likes and it isn’t traditional wooden toys.

As Christmas approaches no doubt we’ll be buying into more

licensed toys featuring Taylor’s favourite characters. He’s hoping Santa Claus will complete his Rescue Bots collection, along with more Superhero toys and LEGO. Does it bother us? No. I look back and realise how naive and unrealistic we were. In an ideal world we wouldn’t have the large plastic toys but the reality of it is they’re what entertain our children the most. Taylor has played with his PJ Masks headquarters everyday since his birthday in January, a

purchase I was, admittedly, reluctant to buy. I felt it was overpriced and wouldn’t get used enough. But in reality he whiles away the hours with imaginative play, reenacting his favourite episodes of the TV show.

Our local tots group has a beautiful wooden ark with wooden animals and a smaller, plastic ark, with plastic animals. Taylor chooses the brightly coloured plastic one over the beautifully crafted wooden one every time. Were I to have bought one I know which I’d have chosen, but I’ve also learnt what my child likes; it’s plastic, it’s brightly coloured and more often than not, it’s licensed.

I’m sure we’re not the only ones who will be purchasing a mix of

Left: Taylor spends hours playing with his PJ Masks headquarters.

Above: Grimms rainbow just wasn’t Taylor’s thing.

licensed toys this Christmas for their children. After all, it’s no different to what I had as a child.

Although it has to be said that not all licensed toys are plastic fantastic. There are some lovely licensed wooden toys such as the Peter Rabbit line from Orange Tree Toys. I’ll be sneaking under the tree for our little lady, because it’s only a matter of time before she too will take a shine to the brightly-coloured characters from the TV!”

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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A B C KI DS EXP O 2018 Inset: Getting handson with product is an essential part of the show experience.

FROM BABY TO CHILD

The ABC Kids Expo is the biggest trade event for the ABC KIDS EXPO 2018 baby and preschool product industry in the US and the 9 – 11 October 2018 show will be taking centre stage in Las Vegas from 9 Las Vegas Convention – 11 October. PPS spoke to Larry Schur, president and coo Center, NV of ABC Kids Expo to find out what makes this show tick www.theabcshow.com and why international visitors should make the journey.

A

non-profit event, ABC Kids Expo attracts about 10,000 visitors from over 70 international destinations each year, offering visitors an unmissable opportunity to engage and connect with buyers and suppliers from around the world.

The show offers buyers the opportunity to get hands-on with a wide range of product, including the very latest baby gear, apparel, toys, décor, maternity and baby care products, health, nutrition and gifts. For manufacturers, it offers an opportunity to conduct business with hundreds of buyers from right across the world.

ABC Supports the Industry ABC Kids Expo first launched 16 years ago and continues to be a non-profit event produced by All Baby & Child Corporation. The organisation boasts a volunteer board of directors, made up of an equal number of retail and manufacturer members. All proceeds go towards supporting independent retailers or are donated to one of a number of charitable organisations that work for the health and welfare of children. Millions of dollars and products have been donated to benefit children in need.

“Retailers are able to see the new product from their existing suppliers,” says Larry Schur, president and coo of ABC Kids Expo, “as well as over 200 new contacts. This is the perfect chance to negotiate exclusive products and programmes that may not be available to your competitors.”

A newly-configured show floor has been designed to help visitors feel more included and drive traffic to key destinations, encompassing a broader range of exhibitors focused on key contemporary market segments.

The Plaza concept, for example, has been expanded for 2018; this open-air Parisian marketplace environment allows visitors to flow freely between exhibitors throughout the sector and was hugely popular last year.

Also popular is the New Product Showcase, featuring products which have launched onto the marketplace within the past year. Awards of Distinction are given to products which feature in the showcase and receive the winning votes from trade media and retailers. Other not to be missed floor destinations and pavilions include Modern Child, Naturally Kids, Maternity Square, Invention Connection and Boutique Marketplace.

“Most destinations on the show floor contain seating, refreshments and recharging points,” added Larry, “while some also include hands-on product demonstrations or education sessions. We have designed all these

specifically to keep both retailers and exhibitors engaged on the show floor.”

Larry is also keen to highlight the high energy industry party, which will be taking place at Brooklyn Bowl on Tuesday 9 October. “Free food, drinks, bowling, music, award presentations and the all-new interactive Juvie Games will keep you entertained throughout the evening,” he enthused, “giving buyers the chance to network and make new friends.

Did I mention the free food and drinks?”

International Attraction International buyers will be able to enjoy access to the international lounge with complimentary refreshments, as well as an international buyers breakfast on 11 October. A section of the ABC Kids Expo website contains a host of information, covering travel information, show credentials, industry party and more. theabcshow. com/international

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HEY DUGGEE™ and character logos™ & © Studio AKA Ltd 2014. Licensed by BBC Worldwide Ltd. BBC logo ™ & © BBC 1996.

THE MULTI BAFTA AWARD-WINNING

· Children’s BAFTA Winner for Pre-school Animation in 2016 & 2017! · Official Partner for BBC Children in Need 2018 · Series 3 has been greenlit · ‘Kick, Kick, Kick, Kick’ became unofficial World Cup Anthem, with PR coverage reaching over 67 million! · New category launches in 2019 038_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G H I T S Inset: For the first time, BLE will have dedicated preschool content in the seminar programme this year.

With the year’s major event in the licensing industry calendar – Brand Licensing Europe – taking place at London’s Olympia from October 9-11, PPS takes a closer look at the preschool licensing space and how it is thriving.

Licensed

T

“

he preschool licensing category really is going from strength to strength,” begins Anna Knight, brand director of Brand Licensing Europe, the three-day showcase for the licensing business held at London’s Olympia from October 9-11.

“According to LIMA’s 2018 Global Licensing Survey the value of the infant licensing market has grown by an impressive 7.3% year on year.

It now equates to 2% of the global market with a value of $5.3 billion. In the UK, it’s worth $423 million, so you can see it’s an important category within the licensing industry.”

PAW Patrol remains the number one preschool licensed property and ranks within the top three total market, while it is also the fastest growing girls licence in the UK. In fact, Nickelodeon’s preschool portfolio is overflowing with major properties – series four of Shimmer & Shine is launching this year; Nella the Princess Knight has had series two confirmed while the consumer products programme is going well with Vivid’s toys and an apparel launch earlier this year in George; while Rusty Rivets has seen apparel launch with George and toys arrive in the summer.

2019 will see the launch of the consumer products range for Top Wing – with Hasbro on board as master toy partner – while Sunny Day launches in autumn/winter 2019, with Mattel creating the toy line.

“Nickelodeon is still the home of preschool,” states Marianne James, vp commercial partnerships, consumer

Above: Bing has been further strengthened by a number of initiatives this year, such as Bing Live.

products and experiences, Viacom Nickelodeon UK & Ireland. “Each series in our preschool portfolio offers something unique to audiences and is supported across the Nick Jr team; not only those working on

the consumer products side of our business, but all areas including insights, programming, digital and marketing.” eOne will be using Brand Licensing Europe to present its new Ricky Zoom property. Set in a town called Wheelford which is populated by motorbikes, evp global licensing Andrew Carley is confident it will be a big hit.

“It has obvious licensing potential because the characters are vehicles – which we know is a popular play pattern for this age group – and the narratives also show them facing relatable challenges which a broader preschool audience enjoy,” he says.

2019 will be a busy year for eOne – Peppa Pig marks 15 years (see page 85 for more on this), while it will also be the ten year anniversary of Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom and growth is set to continue for PJ Masks.

Returning to new properties, Pirata & Capitano follows the adventures of Pirata as she helms her ship, The Pink Skull, with her best friend Capitano close at

Inset: Top Wing is one of the new properties in Nickelodeon’s preschool portfolio.

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G H I T S



hand flying his Hydroplane.

The Millimage series is airing on Channel 5’s Milkshake block in the UK, with the consumer products programme handled by Licensing Link Europe.

“The cornerstones of the licensing programme will be toys and apparel, together with introducing the series to key retail partners,” explains director Chris Taday. “In addition, we are in discussions with publishing partners that will also include magazines.”

The show has enjoyed a strong start on Milkshake – by the beginning of August it had achieved fast approaching one million viewers – and there is now a build up of demand for product, says Chris. “The programme has a strong female protagonist together with a strong supporting cast of characters, allowing for the development of great NPD,” he continues. “It also uses a new animation technique called ‘Global Illumination’ that allows light to bounce off surfaces, making for a stunning visual look to each episode.”

Daisy & Ollie – which airs on Cartoonito – is another newcomer beginning to make its presence felt in the preschool space. CHF Media Group will be exhibiting for the first time at BLE and will be looking to show how the series encourages young children to be curious and question the world around them. In addition, 26 exclusive episodes of Pip Ahoy! are due to air on ITVBe’s new preschool block littleBe, with CHF looking to extend its master toy, apparel and character appearances to make the

Left: 15 years on, and Peppa Pig remains at the forefront of the sector. Below: The new Claude TV series is based on the books published by Hachette.

most of the relaunch.

“The preschool sector is buoyant and that is a good thing,” says Jenny Johnstone, commercial director of CHF Media Group. “However, it is dominated by a handful of properties and brand owners. We completely understand the need for licensees to be cautious – retail space is a valuable commodity and business is business – but

it would be nice to see more choice.”

Caroline High, director of licensing at Boat Rocker Rights, believes that there is scope for brands tapping into new areas, such as Bitz & Bob, which premiered on CBeebies earlier this year. It combines imaginary, funny and inventive stories with key principles of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and maths).

“STEAM categories continue to grow in popularity and as Bitz is the only girl-led STEAM TV property that focuses on engineering, we see potential to own this particular space and an exciting opportunity to create a range of products that promote hands-on creativity and exploration,” Caroline says.

In addition, Boat Rocker also represents Nelvana in the UK and is looking to build up the Ranger Rob brand, which launched on Tiny POP earlier this year.

Moving from new properties to the more established; Start Licensing is handling Claude, currently airing on Disney Junior and which is proving to be one of the channel’s most popular shows. The series is based on books published by Hachette, with the company planning some TV tie-in titles in 2019, while Redan is also due 

Duggee Hugs All Round Hey Duggee has enjoyed a pretty sensational time of late. Some notable highlights from this year include the huge popularity of The Stick Song and The Kick Song, as well as the Hey Duggee apps exceeding 2.5 billion downloads worldwide.

In terms of the licensing programme, BBC Studios has expanded the softline listings across nightwear and daywear through Aykroyds, TPD and Blues, while good progress has also been made on the toy sales heading into autumn/winter.

“There has been a good response to Golden Bear’s refreshed Hey

Duggee lines and we are working on an expanded product offering for autumn/winter 2019,” reports Julie Kekwick, senior licensing manager at BBC Studios.

As well as Hey Duggee, BBC Studios is also enjoying success with Go Jetters, Sarah & Duck and Mr Tumble Something Special. Being able to keep up with ‘real world’ trends has been key to the success of all the brands, says Julie.

“The Kids Insight research showed 74% ownership of tablets for the under-sevens, so ensuring access to our brands across SVOD platforms

is something we addressed last year,” she comments. “Deals were inked with Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, which saw some of BBC Studios’ prime preschool content become available on both platforms.”

The growing popularity of collectables is also significant at retail. “In response, we are relaunching the Hey Duggee talking Squirrels soft toys,” says Julie. “So they will be available for all consumers to collect for the first time.”

Above: Hey Duggee is continuing to charm audiences around the world.

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© 2018 Funny Flux / Alpha All rights reserved.

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G H I T S



to feature Claude in some of its titles.

“It is early days but the initial reaction from licensees in categories such as apparel, dress-up, puzzles, plush and games has been positive,” says Ian Downes, md of Start Licensing.

“Licensees like the visual style of Claude and appreciate its heritage.

My sense is that Claude is shaping up well – it is a very original property with an established following.”

Heritage is something that these next

Above: Long-term plans are in place for the Super Wings brand.

Super Wings swoops in Alpha Animation and Toys UK - which is making its debut at Brand Licensing Europe this year - is continuing to build on its popular animation Super Wings, with long-term plans in place for the brand.

With series three due to launch in key European markets this autumn, and plans to expand into other territories throughout 2019, fans of the show will enjoy a new twist on the plot, featuring ‘Mission Teams’ for each core character. Seasons one and two of the property are currently broadcast in over 100 territories with key broadcasters and season four is also under development.

The Super Wings licensing programme hosts a number of international licensees, with further announces imminent. Key focuses include Zara, PEZ; which will launch a full line of its well-recognised candydispensers. Revell and Cobi have also partnered with Alpha to develop model-kits and bricks which will complement the extensive toy line and strongly support the property’s visibility throughout 2019.

In addition, Alpha Group is currently developing many new projects including a co-production of a new preschool TV series in partnership with DHX, with TV and CP representation in some territories.

Right: Miffy has a strong emotional connection with parents and children.

Below: Daisy & Ollie airs on Cartoonito and features a host of well-known voice talent.

few brands have in spades, too. “Peter Rabbit is a real hero and all iterations of the brand saw a real boost since the movie from Sony Pictures was released earlier this year, with the DVD recently launched,” says Susan Bolsover, director of licensing and consumer products at Penguin Ventures. “The movie has allowed us to take Peter into brand new spaces while ensuring our core Classic business can continue their literary heritage to dominate the gifting and enduring and nursery sector.” appeal,” says Alicia Penguin Ventures Davenport, licensing is also building up the director at DRi, licensing programme which handles the for Spot. A new range consumer product of publishing is planned programmes. for 2019, while the The Gruffalo company will also is another classic be growing its infant literary brand which and baby offering just goes from strength to strength. 2019 in the apparel space with Dennicci, will mark 20 years since it was published as well as its home entertainment and ten years of Magic Light Pictures’ offer through Abbey Home Media. licensing programme launching, with a On top of this, plans for The Snowman bespoke anniversary style guide having anniversary will be revealed at BLE, been developed. Indeed, Daryl Shute, with Susan saying it is hoping to add “a brand director, says that the overall Julia bit of magic” to proceedings. “Classic Donaldson/Axel Scheffler portfolio is brands are seeing a real resurgence, building nicely. “This really is a universe perhaps as retailers rely on nostalgic, well of characters that families love and established characters that consumers  there’s appetite to keep extending the will immediately recognise and have an emotional connection to,” Susan adds.

The emotional connection is also strong for the Miffy and Roald Dahl brands. Long-term licensee Rainbow Designs will be launching three new Miffy plush collections this autumn – two nursery ranges in mint and grey, plus a classic range inspired by the books.

There is also an on-going babywear collaboration with Right: Pirata & Capitano Tobias and the Bear, has enjoyed a strong as well as high street start on Milkshake. launches from Dennicci. Below: New Teletubbies content will be rolling out Meanwhile, The Enormous Crocodile from autumn through to 2019. preschool programme launched this summer with new board books, snappy soft toys from Rainbow Designs, games from Paul Lamond and kidswear lines from Fabric Flavours. “Both of these brands resonate with parents and preschoolers thanks to PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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That’s not my...

The That’s not my... books from Usborne are aimed at babies and young pre-schoolers The series features over 50 titles and is a gifting favourite for new-borns as their first book Over 6m books sold in the UK Over 20m books sold worldwide Author Fiona Watt is the 4th biggest selling Children’s author in the UK since BookScan UK records began That’s not my unicorn... has sold over 100k copies and reached the Sunday Times Top 5 Children’s Bestsellers Chart in 2017 Baby apparel from Dennicci is on the market now, and Rainbow Designs will be launching their master toy range in spring 2019 The 20th Anniversary in 2019 will be celebrated with special editions, new releases and a family focussed ad campaign featuring partnerships, storyteller-led events and baby sensory classes www.usborne.com © Usborne Publishing www.usborne.com 2018 ©2018 Usborne Publishing Ltd. Ltd.

www.bulldog-licensing.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 8325 5455 Email: info@bulldog-licensing.com

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G H I TS Right: Bitz & Bob is tapping into the fast growing STEAM category. Far right: The Gruffalo will mark 20 years since it has been published in 2019.



licensed offering,” he offers. “Magic Light has also started to develop Axel Scheffler’s Pip & Posy as a preschool TV series so we’ll be talking to people about licensing opportunities that might come with that.”

For Acamar Films, there is a pipeline of new content, marketing themes, consumer facing initiatives and style guides due in 2019 as it continues to build on the success of Bing. Since its launch on CBeebies in 2014, the brand has attracted a strong and loyal audience of ‘Bingsters’ and is now also growing internationally, too. Among other activity, this year has seen the arrival of Bing Live – the brand’s first UK stage show – while an exclusive partnership with Vue Cinemas brought Bing to the big screen.

“The retail climate continues to challenge licensors, but it also demonstrates how strong the quality of the programming content needs to be to keep our audience engaged and to cut through at retail,” says Sandra VauthierCellier, chief commercial officer at Acamar. “In the preschool sector you have the additional challenge of needing to appeal to both the children and their

parents, since the latter make the majority of the viewing and purchasing choices.”

DHX Brands’ commercial director, Tom Roe believes that there are opportunities to thrive. The company’s preschool focus is on Teletubbies, In the Night Garden and Twirlywoos – which sit under the First Steppers banner – and the past year has been full of activity for all three brands. Tom says it is keen to continue to discuss and develop Below: Redan’s preschool titles have held firm or increased their circulations over the past year.

Page Turners The children’s publishing sector seems ‘incredibly robust’, according to Redan Publishing’s editorial director, Jenny O’Connor, with parents looking to offer preschoolers something educational and fun away from the computer or TV screen.

The latest round of ABC figures showed Redan’s titles either holding firm or increasing circulations over the past 12 months. Fun to Learn Peppa Pig Bag-O’-Fun saw a rise of 10.93% year on year – a total average sale of 85,455 makes it not only the number one best-selling magazine in the preschool sector, but in the whole of the children’s sector. Elsewhere, FTL Friends (48,277) and FTL Favourites (35,674) also held firm in the preschool top ten.

One of the keys to success for Redan is the constant introduction of

new characters to its multi-character magazines to keep them fresh and relevant. “Most issues of FTL Friends and FTL Favourites carry trial pages for new brands or tune-in pages for programmes premiering on TV or online,” says Jenny. “This year, we’re looking at among others Top Wing, Nella the Princess Knight, Pirata & Capitano and we’re looking forward to introducing Moon & Me.” However, Jenny also points out that the internet can be a really powerful tool for brands. “You no longer need to have the backing of a large broadcast partner to launch a successful preschool brand,” she says. “YouTube has really opened up opportunities for new brands and this has led to an explosion in the sheer number of properties that are out there to choose from.”

plans for further segmentation into narrower age brackets to ensure that the age group needs and wants are met with the right product offering, pointing to a successful campaign with Argos’ Mother & Baby event which clearly showed where the brands sit.

“There are opportunities, it’s about moving with the times: there is a more diversified retail landscape, and the growth of the discounter and online sector creates many opportunities, in line with consumer shopping habits,” says Tom. It’s clear that preschool is a competitive but lucrative licensing category – and nowhere will this be more ably demonstrated then at Olympia in October. “At BLE, we have hundreds if not thousands of preschool brands that will interest both licensees in that category and, of course, retailers,” says BLE’s Anna, summing up. “For the first time, we will have dedicated preschool content on the seminar programme with a session on redefining preschool and how that could have a positive impact for brands, retailers, licensees and the customer.”

Below: The core Classic Peter Rabbit continues to dominate the gifting and nursery sector.

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At Brand Licensing Europe 2018

lislelicensing.com 07/09/2018 13:08

MOON LI TE H I TS TH E U K Inset: Moonlite will launch in the UK this autumn.

ver the Moon “

Launching in UK retailers this autumn, Moonlite is bringing a host of iconic children’s stories to life in a different way. Helping to instil a love of reading into children from a young age and promoting early literacy skills, Moonlite is also helping Spin Master tap into the publishing sector. PPS finds out more.

M

oonlite came about in the most organic of ways, through bedtime shadow play with my daughter,” says Natalie Rebot, inventor and founder of Moonlite World. “We had this ritual where I would bring my phone up into her room, turn on the flashlight and make up stories out of shadow puppets,” she elaborates. “We had so much fun doing this and that is what first gave me the idea of Moonlite. I wanted to find a way to get her favourite stories up onto the ceiling or wall.”

That was back in March 2016 and by June, Natalie had her first prototype in hand, with the product launching on Kickstarter in December 2016. Following the Kickstarter campaign and New York Toy Fair, Spin Master became involved with Moonlite in May 2017, giving the toy company the chance to tap into the publishing sector.

Natalie and Spin Master are

both keen to highlight the fact that Moonlite promotes early literacy skills and a passion for reading from a young age. “It gets kids excited about reading and promotes bonding time between parent and child,” says Natalie. “Children get to experience their favourite books in the most magical of ways.”

Licensing is ‘instrumental’ for the Moonlite brand, she says, and there are currently between 20-25 different licensing partners on board, ranging from Eric Carle and Sanrio through to Disney and Penguin Random House.

“We have partnered with the most iconic children’s book publishers to bring the very best content to Moonlite,” Natalie outlines.

Above: Inventor and founder of Moonlite World, Natalie Rebot.

“We are only as good as the content we have. Moonlite is already an incredible experience for children, but when they get to experience their favourite stories coming to life in their bedroom, something magical happens. We also create original content from classic, public domain titles such as Goldilocks and the 3 Bears and The Three Little Pigs.”

Reaction from retailers has been positive and Natalie is confident that the official UK launch on Monday 1 October 2018 will be met with the same response. Bespoke retailer launch plans have been created, focusing on fun in-store activities where Moonlite will be accessible for consumers to try and experience.  PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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MOON LI TE H I TS TH E U K

Moonlite: Need to know

Right: Beatrix Potter is one of the key brands on the platform.

Moonlite will launch in the UK on Monday 1 October 2018 with three distinct product lines.

■T he Gift Set – which contains one projector device and five story reels – will be priced at £39.99.

Two sets are available: Moonlite Originals features classic tales like Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Goldilocks and the Three Bears, while the second contains a collection of five of Roger Hargreaves’ famous Mr. Men Stories.

■ S tarter Kits will be retailing at £19.99 and contain one projector device and two story reels. The two stories featured are The Very Hungry Caterpillar and The Very Busy Spider.

■ F inally, individual titles will be priced at £7.99, including Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Jemima PuddleDuck, plus Dinosaur Roar, Spot Goes Shopping, Spot Loves.

Bedtime and Wherever You Go.

Right: Gift Packs contain one projector device and five story reels.

 “We are also launching the items

on an out of aisle merchandiser which allows for the product to be very visible in store,” Natalie adds.

“Outside of stores, we will have a brand ambassador who will be representing the brand throughout online and social media channels.

Twitter parties and Facebook discussions featuring key experts who can speak about the importance of bedtime, reading and bonding with children will occur throughout the launch season. Moonlite will also be getting into the hands of key bloggers and UK notables.”

Natalie recommends that retailers focus on demoing the product to parents. “Experiencing Moonlite really brings it to life in front of parents’ eyes so we would recommend that retailers focus on in-store demonstrations as much as possible,” she says. “Parents love purchasing items they believe will enrich the lives of their children and Moonlite does just that.”

As the end of 2018 approaches, Natalie would like to see Moonlite continue to acquire more content and develop strong relationships with key publishers. “I am also very proud that we are supporting a charity and helping to get books to children in need,” she adds. “I think that giving back is a big part of any business and we want to strive to give all children access to amazing books.”

“I would also be very excited to see Moonlite launch into different countries. We have

had so many international requests, so it is a big achievement to see Moonlite move across the globe into homes everywhere.”

And the ultimate future goal? “It would be incredible for Moonlite to be a household name,” Natalie enthuses.

“Moonlite has already brought so many families closer together and it would be my dream to have everyone experience this with their children.

I would

also like to see Moonlite become an essential early learning tool in classrooms. We have new educational content in the pipeline, so the classroom would be a natural fit.

It gives learning a fun, new twist and keeps children engaged.”

Natalie concludes: “We have so many new products in the making that will continue to drive excitement and innovation in the children’s publishing space.”

Right: Licensing is instrumental for Moonlite with a range of properties on board, including Spot and Dinosaur Roar.

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S H OW P REV I EW: KI N D + J U G EN D 2018

KIND UND JUGEND:

THE PERFECT PRESCHOOL PLATFORM 20 – 23 SEPTEMBER 2013. COLOGNE, GERMANY WWW.KINDUNDJUGEND.COM

T

he nursery and preschool sector is a hotbed of innovation and invention, with thousands of new products and a never-ending stream of exciting new products entering the market each year. PPE takes a look at what’s in store at Kind + Jugend 2018, the industry’s biggest annual showcase.

There’s just one place to be for buyers looking to source the newest nursery and preschool lines – Kind + Jugend, the leading international trade fair for baby and children’s product. Taking place from 20 – 23 September 2018, the Cologne-based trade show will once again present a comprehensive showcase for thousands of brands, bringing together the very latest in babycare product from around the globe.

Offering the ideal platform for global business, more than 22,500 trade visitors visit the show to explore the latest offerings from around 1,200 exhibitors, reflecting the output of more than 50 countries.

One of the most significant attractions is the BPA-organised UK Pavilion, which is once again completely sold out, with well over 50 exhibitors taking part. Located in Hall 4.1, the popular networking drinks will once again be taking place straight after the show on Thursday 20 September.

With trends across the industry increasingly focusing on design, quality, environmental consciousness and sustainability, The Innovation Award and Design Park are essential for UK visitors looking for international inspiration, while a full seminar programme will also be taking place at the Trend Forum, looking at design, commercial and international trends throughout the babycare market.

Exhibitors from across the UK have been making their final preparations in recent weeks – so here’s what visitors can expect to see...

LIA MURRAIN director, Baby K’tan. HALL 4.1, STAND B-047

“

We are excited to be returning to Kind + Jugend this year. Baby K’tan Carriers are extremely popular in the UK and US and we are looking forward to opening up European markets at Cologne via distributors and agents. We will also be showcasing our range of swaddles and changing bags at the show, including our new Weekender changing bag with built-in wet bag and anti-microbial lining.”

Right: The new Weekender changing bag from Baby K’tan.

HELEN DAVIES managing director, EasyTots HALL 4.1, STAND C041 I am delighted to showcase our growing EasyTots range “at Kind+ Jugend this year in the UK Pavilion. After such a

tremendous response in 2017 we are attending again this year with an exciting new launch - first made to measure ‘Perfect Fit’ Easymat. We are thrilled to be the first to bring a bespoke feeding accessory range to market and the response already has been fantastic. We look forward to talking to our existing clients at the show and having the opportunity to meet with potential new buyers internationally.”

Right: The Perfect Fit Easymat has been designed specifically for the hugely popular Ikea Antilop highchair.

ERIC WHITE

managing director, East Coast Nursery HALL 4.1, STAND B043

“

Kind + Jugend gives us the opportunity to introduce our products to international buyers and distributors, as well as being a chance to connect with many of our UK customers. We are seeking global distributors to expand our East Coast and Silvercloud ranges worldwide. Furniture always forms the centrepiece of our stand and this year we will be showing some new pieces from our furniture collection.”

Above: The Urban collection is East Coast’s newest two-piece room set.

LYNDA HARDING

founder, Sweet Dreamers HALL 4.1, STAND B041

“

Kind + Jugend is an integral activity in our international business strategy and I strongly believe it is essential to our ongoing growth in exports.

We have seen it grow consistently in the seven years we have attended and is, in our eyes, ‘the’ place to be seen. It always yields a high ROI. Year-onyear we have seen an increase in buyers from USA and Canada and we undoubtedly develop existing and new business relationships every year. This year we are excited to increase awareness of Ewan Deluxe internationally and will also be showcasing a new colour range.”

Above: Sweet Dreamers will be focusing on the Ewan Deluxe.

 PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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S H OW P REV I EW: KI N D + J U G EN D 2018

ROB PASCOE



EMILY SUNDERLAND

group commercial director, The Gro Company HALL 11.2, STAND G009

“

We are looking forward to exhibiting new products and designs from our award-winning range at this year’s Kind + Jugend. With the full breath of our range on display, distributors and retailers will be able to get the full Gro ‘experience’. With a strong focus on core product the Grobag, Gro will also be introducing customers to a number of new innovations, including our latest Grobath range of towelling products and toddler sleep solution the Groromper.”

“ “

We are very much looking forward to meeting new distributors and buyers this year at K+J. 2018 is a big year for us. We have just been nominated for a German Design Award, at a time when we are building on international distribution of our expansive range of products. Our hero products for the show will be our new Jet-Set Dummy Clips, our Forest Friends collection of silicone and natural wood teethers and our new Rio and Havana stylish teething necklaces.”

Right: The Gro Company will be focusing on core product the Grobag.

NIVI BHIDE marketing director, Infantino HALL 11.2, STAND H041

“

Cologne is a key nursery show for Infantino as it is our chance to meet buyers and retailers at a global level. As a brand we are committed to creating smartly designed products for happy parenting and we are extremely excited to present our extensive range of products focusing on innovation and style. Our unique portfolio ranges from carriers to night lights, playmats to bath toys and so much more.”

founder, Nibbling Jewellery HALL 4.1, STAND C048

MATT DYSON director, Rockit HALL 4.1 STAND B-047B

launched Rockit, “theWeaward-winning

portable pram and stroller rocker at Kind +Jugend 2017. Since then we have had an amazing year- winning multiple consumer and trade awards, securing distribution in over 20 countries, featuring on national TV and in the press and being stocked by top retailers.

We can’t wait to return to Kind + Jugend in 2018 and are looking forward to seeing our existing distributors and meeting new ones while at the show.”

Above: The Forest Friends silicone and natural wood teethers from Nibbling.

Below: The clever Rockit will be making its return to K+J this year.

OANA MELINTE

export development manager, Lansinoh HALL 11.2, STAND: D038

Above: Infantino’s award-winning playtime teepee gym.

NATALIE JACKSON

vp sales and marketing, Beaba and Red Castle HALL 4.1, STAND A021 As a key date on the “nursery calendar, K+J is

our go-to exhibition for gaining invaluable feedback on our products, together with introducing exciting new launches to the whole industry. 2019 is going to be an important year for us as we focus on further building our brand awareness in anticipation for some major range expansions in the year ahead. Exhibiting at K+J this year signifies the starting point in significant brand growth for both Red Castle and Beaba.”

Above: Beaba’s limited edition Babycook is available in rose gold.

“

Kind + Jugend provides a fantastic platform for us to meet our global partners and we are looking forward to exhibiting again this year. We are looking to expand our overseas distribution and welcome new retail and distribution partners to visit our stand to explore growth opportunities together. We are particularly excited to present our Compact Single Electric Breast Pump which can be used with a powerbank and our new Breastfeeding Pillow.”

Above: New additions to the Lansinoh range include a breastfeeding pillow.

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S H OW P REV I EW: KI N D + J U G EN D 2018

EMELYNE BRADLEY

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DEAN TOLLMAN

sales and marketing director, Ruk-bug HALL 4.1, STAND B053A

director, Vital Innovations HALL 11.2, STAND G040

“

With safety and innovation at the heart of consumers and retailers, Kind + Jugend 2018 is the perfect platform for Ruk-bug to launch a first in market, unique and innovative pushchair. Cologne provides a great opportunity to introduce Ruk-bug products to UK and international buyers and distributors and to advertise that we are looking for global retailers and distributors to export our brand.”

Kind + Jugend is a key “show for us and gives us the

opportunity to meet current and new buyers from overseas and the UK. This year on our fabulous new stand, among other products that we will be adding to our collection, we will be showcasing our BabyFood Pro, a multifunctional blender that not only cooks nutritious meals but can be used to warm babies bottles. Come along to our stand to discover our new products!”

Above: Ruk-bug will be launching to the international market this September.

GEMMA STOKES

Below: The BabyFood Pro will be the hero product at the Vital Innovations stand.

marketing manager, Skip Hop UK HALL 10.1, STAND C030

“

CHARLOTTE YOUNG

marketing and product development coordinator, Summer Infant.

HALL 11.2, STAND C048 Kind + Jugend is an exciting show for us as we will be introducing a host of new products for the year ahead. It will be great to see our ranges brought to life on the stand and to network with our distributors and retail partners to gain their feedback. This year we’ll have an even wider range of products on display along with a brand refresh, which features a new cross-category collection of curated products at an elevated price point.”

“

Above: As one of the new lines for AW18, Summer Infant’s My Bath Seat will be at Kind + Jugend.

Kind + Jugend is an extremely important show for Skip Hop for many reasons including catchingup with existing retailers and distributors, while also welcoming new retailers, buyers and industry professionals to the Skip Hop brand. At this year’s show, we will be showcasing our exciting new 2019 product innovations, so be sure to book an appointment with one of the UK team so not to miss out!”

Below: Skip Hop’s stylish Silver Lining Cloud Baby’s View 3-Stage Activity Centre supports a ‘whole body’ approach to play and learning.

CHRISTOS VOTSIS

managing director, Didofy HALL 4.1, STAND A044

“

We are excited to be returning to K+J this year to launch the Didofy Lotus, which last year was just a prototype. We enjoyed meeting and hearing feedback from so many knowledgeable market experts last year and look forward to introducing our final product to them.

As a parent myself, I know the challenges traditional strollers can bring and we are very confident the Didofy Lotus will be a game-changer in the market.”

Right: The Didofy Lotus will be returning to K+J.

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MITCH LEVENE managing director, Chicco HALL 10.2, STAND B019

“

We are looking forward to launching our latest product innovations for 2019 as we celebrate our 60th birthday. As well as launching the new Next2Me Magic at Kind + Jugend, we will also be showcasing our latest innovation in the travel system sector – the Trio Best Friend – that will further expand our offering for parents in the UK market. We will be supporting our exciting launches with a fully integrated marketing plan to highlight our expertise.”

GUY SCHANSCHIEFF founder, Bambino Mio HALL 4.1, STAND A040 year has “seenThissignificant

growth in sales of our products as parents look for alternatives to single use plastic products. This year’s event is a great opportunity to meet with our current retailers and distributors as well as potential buyers. We’ve invested a significant amount into our stand this year, giving visitors the chance to discover the newest designs and a number of new product innovations.”

Right: Bambino Mio will be showcasing new designs and fresh innovations.

Below: Chicco products like the popular Next2Me have appeared in millions of households over the past 60 years.

SOPHIE HUARD

associate director, Je Porte Mon Bébé, HALL 4.1, STAND A068

“

GIANNI LEQUOQUE

vice president of strategy and business development, Apramo HALL 4.1, STAND A042 This year’s K+J is of “utmost importance to

Apramo. We are really excited to be using the exhibition as the official European launch for our ALL STAGE car seat, which incorporates the largest number of innovative features in a single Isofix child car seat. K+J is well known as an exhibition where new technologies and innovations are presented for the very first time and we feel it is the perfect fit for our brand.”

Right: Apramo will be showcasing a wide range of product at K+J.

JUDITH STARK

managing director, Halilit HALL 10.1, STAND C041 Cologne is a fantastic “opportunity to show

This will be our seventh consecutive year at Kind + Jugend.

We know the show will offer us the opportunity to develop JPMBB around the world and to showcase The Hoodie Carrier, which blends even more subtly into the world of today’s parents, without cramping the style or imposing the ‘childcare’ look. K+J is really important as it allows us to meet our most important accounts and to develop new markets.”

Below: The Hoodie Carrier is the latest addition to the JPMBB collection.

our newest Taf Toys developments and prototypes to some of our most valued customers at a key time of year. We are thrilled to be unveiling the latest Taf Toys collection, which is both engaging and stylish, and look forward to taking the opportunity to gain feedback from some of the most experienced and knowledgeable buyers in the industry prior to its 2019 launch.”

Above: The Taf Toys musical newborn nest and gym.

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Discover the complete Chicco sleeptime family to enjoy precious moments together.

CHICCO.CO.UK

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S H OW P REV I EW: KI N D + J U G EN D 2018

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SIMON WINSKILL

commercial director, Babymoov HALL 11.2, STAND G38

“

As an international brand, Babymoov welcomes new and valued retail partners to experience Babymoov in person. With a spectacular stand showcasing original and improved bestsellers, international awardwinners and brand new products, visitors can expect real innovation and some brilliant new interactive store displays for maximum impact. Key categories include safety, comfort, pregnancy and feeding with the latest additions to the YOO video baby monitor range, ‘Sleepy’ the white noise night light and Foodii, our on-the-go baby-led-weaning food pouches for babies and toddlers.”

Above: Babymoov’s on-the-go baby-led-weaning food pouches will be on show.

BOLA LAFE

managing director, Opus Innovations HALL 4.1, STAND C046 We have been a regular “exhibitor at Kind + Jugend

since 2012 where we launched our Aquaint 100% Natural Sanitising Water and we are delighted to be back again this year to launch three new Aquaint products ( all natural, eco-friendly, biodegradable and plastic-free) and find new distributors. Our main product focus is our Aquaint Happy Planet 100% Biodegradable Plant and water Wipes made from cellulose plant fibres, they contain 99.9% purified water with apple fruit extract and set new standards for pure and sustainable wipes.”

Below: The wipes have made it into the finals of the Kind + Jugend Innovation Awards - World of Kids Care category.

JULIE WILSON

founder, Cheeky Chompers HALL 4.1, STAND B045 Most excitingly this year’s Kind + Jugend will see us unveil two new designs for our iconic Neckerchew, as well as launching the Attach & Chew to the international market. We will also be focused on the MultiMuslin – we’ve seen excellent sales with this six-in-one innovation, which is being taken by an increasing number of retailers and we have confidence we will see increased international interest following the show.”

“

Left: Julie Wilson and Amy Livingstone are bringing the whole Cheeky Chompers range to Kind + Jugend.

REBECCA PATTERSON

managing director, Zellie Adventure STAND HALL 4.1, STAND B042A

“

We are so excited to be showing at Cologne 2018 as we are launching a collection of new products which have already had fantastic reviews and won multiple awards. We focus on the functionality of the products first at Zellie and each item is used by a number of parents before it comes to market. Our seven-in-one backpack INCA is most certainly our hero product for AW18.”

Right: The seven-in-one INCA backpack is Zellie’s hero product for AW18.

MARC KELLY

managing director, Cuddleco HALL 4.1, STAND B051 + Jugend is here again, “weKind cannot believe how quick the

last year has gone! This year we are focusing on the independents for our national market as they have been the life and sole of our sales growth this year and long may we continue together. This year we are introducing a brandnew range of luxuriously soft bamboo textiles fully stocked in a wonderful new in-store display.

It would be great to see everyone there, so pop onto our stand, enjoy a drink and nibbles at the bar and have a chat.”

Above: Cuddleco is also unveiling a refresh for the Doona.

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S H OW P REV I EW: KI N D + J U G EN D 2018

KATHRYN BALDREY-CHOURIO



founder, Nana’s Manners HALL 4.1, STAND B042C

“

Nana’s Manners knife and fork is now stocked in major UK retailers and empowers children to learn to eat confidently and independently. The cutlery, featured on BBC’s Dragon’s Den last October, is only comfortable when held correctly, as demonstrated by Peter Jones. We are very excited to be launching a range into the UK’s schools and nurseries in September.

After an amazing launch year we’re excited to be at Kind + Jugend, putting a face to international buyers and distributors and welcoming the opportunity to meet new partners. We will also be showcasing our latest products, tableware gift sets.”

Above: Nana’s Manners cutlery won the innovation award at the Progessive Preschool Awards 2017.

MIKE EDWARDS

director, Snugglebundl HALL 4.1, STAND C047 Kind + Jugend “ We’veanddone before it proved to be a

fantastic place to gather contacts and make new business like minded friends. That’s why this year we couldn’t miss it! The Snugglebundl is a unique blanket wrap with handles and a padded head support that allows you to lift and lay your little one asleep, out of car seats, prams, cots or even off the floor. We hope to showcase the Snugglebundl to potential partners across Europe to promote our export growth.”

JENNA WRIGHT

pr and brand partnerships manager, Mamas & Papas HALL 10.2, STAND C-040 year, Mamas & Papas is excited “to This showcase the Ocarro X Moon – a

unique pushchair enriched with quality woollen fabrics from the UK’s last remaining fully vertical woollen mill.

Celebrating the best of traditional British design. Also on display at the show this year is the new Flip XT3, a bold reimaging of our most compact pushchair. The slick new design includes a new shape hood and visor with stylish chrome chassis and touch points.”

Below: The Flip XT3 designed for the smallest of spaces and ultimate portability, it’s a compact solution that’s suitable from birth.

Above: The Snugglebundl has been voted ‘Best Baby Product’ two years running.

RIFAT JAN

founder, Fill n Squeeze. HALL 4.1, Stand C047

“

Fill n Squeeze is excited to be attending Kind + Jugend under the newly formed NIPA baby group.

We decided to attend with some fellow parent entrepreneurs to show case our collection of products to the mass buyers under an exciting new format. This will be our sixth year and each year we grow our export business via Kind + Jugend. We hope to get more interest from other European Countries and are looking to find new opportunities in South East Asia.”

GERALDINE GRANDIDIER founder and ceo of Tidy Books Europe HALL 4.1, STAND C047

“

Tidy Books will be showing as part of the NIPA Baby group at Kind + Jugend. NIPA Baby is a family of brands created by children’s product inventors, who’ve banded together to give mutual support and combat copies to ensure the best for consumers. Kind + Jugend is a global show and so it’s a great platform to showcase the ingenuity of children’s product inventors.

I’ll be there with my original Tidy Books children’s bookcase and will be spreading the word about celebrating original designs.”

“

Below: Tidy Books offer a childfriendly display option.

ALICE EDMONDS

PR and social media coordinator, PacaPod HALL 4.1, STAND B045A We love Kind + Jugend, it’s like “bringing our PacaPod family together

and hanging out for a while, we see our international partners, retailers and make new friends and potential new partners too. It feels great to catch up after a year of hardworking and share our joint experiences, latest challenges and brainstorm new ideas together, it always provides a springboard of ideas for the forthcoming year. We also of course get to share and test our new developments. PacaPod is a pioneer in travel and organisation in baby changing bags and this year we’ve got some beauties to showcase.”

Below: PacaPod is showcasing a collection of new travel bags with a flagship mega fourpod system and some show-stopping prints.

Left: Fill n Squeeze allows homemade baby food to be dispensed into reusable pouches.

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Vital Baby 2019 is coming we’re ready, are you?

2018 has seen ideas flourish in to new and exciting product development. Step inside the cloud at Kind + Jugend 2019 for an exclusive viewing before it’s too late…

Appointments: info@vitalgroup.co.uk

Kind + Jugend 2018 Hall 11.2, Stand GO40 Visit www.vitalbaby.com VitalBabyProducts Vitalbabyuk @vitalbaby

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

MAMAS AND PAPAS New Flip XT3 is a bold reimaging of its most compact pushchair. The slick new design includes a new shape hood and visor with stylish chrome chassis and touch points. Designed for the smallest of spaces and ultimate portability, it’s a compact solution that’s suitable from birth. +44(0)1484 438533 www.mamasandpapas.com Hall 10.2 Stands C040

RUK-BUG New Ruk-bug SOLIS is the first pushchair in market with a curved frame design, for greater safety and stability. It is the first pushchair to come with an easy to use magnetised buckle andthe first in market to offer a detachable compactable shopping basket.

SOLIS is suitable from birth to 22kg. +44(0)1612 121545 www.ruk-bug.com Hall 4.1 Stand B053a

ZELLIE The huge capacity of Zellie’s new bag range has endeared it to parents with twins, a baby and toddler in tow or simply those who want lots of organised space. Clever bags, keeping things organised. +44(0)7841 399670 www.zellieadventure.com Hall 4.1 Stand B042a

ROCKIT ROCKER The Baby Rocker, from Rockit Rocker will keep rocking so parents don’t have to. Created to help parents on the go, this handy must-have accessory keeps babies moving and snoozing. Attaching easily to prams, buggies and strollers It’s soothing rocking motion keeps baby asleep and on the move. +44(0)7588 717000 www.rockitrocker.com Hall 4.1 Stand B047b

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

MATCHSTICK MONKEY

VITAL INNOVATIONS

This Autumn, the award winning Matchstick Monkey welcomes a brand new member of the family, the cute and portable Mini Monkey teether. The first and only teether to have added BioCote Antimicrobial Technology, which kills 99.99% of microbes, BioCote is the only antimicrobial supplier approved by HACCP International. +44(0)2072982760 www.matchstickmonkey.co.uk Hall 11.2 Stand A008

Vital Baby’s new BabyFood Pro helps cater for all stages of baby’s development. Helping make life that little bit easier, not only can parents warm bottles to the perfect temperature but it enables them to prepare healthy and nutritious meals in minutes. By steaming any types of foods, all of the valuable nutrients and flavours are preserved. +44(0)1707262200 www.vitalbaby.com Hall 11.2 Stand G040

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JOIN US AT KIND & JUGEND 2018 THE BRITISH PAVILION. HALL 4.1, STAND B-047 Functional and innovative products, designed to help promote the natural bond between parent and baby.

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SMART AND STYLISH • AUTO-FOLDING • SELF-CHARGING The innovative Didofy Lotus has been designed by parents for parents with one simple aim - to give parents and carers a reliable, safe, smart and highly practical stroller which is easy to use. www.didofy.com

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Find us at: The British Pavilion Hall 4.1, Stand C-048

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Safe, practical & stylish Nibbling’s design-led baby accessory range is made with 100% food grade silicone which is safe and soft enough for babies to chew.

To arrange an appointment at the show, please contact Emily Sunderland: emily@nibbling.co.uk 00 44 7943 958860 Visit www.nibbling.com to find out more facebook.com/nibbling @nibblinguk

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PreschoolNews.net is the new online resource for the preschool product and retail sector. From the publishers of Progressive Preschool Magazine and the organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash will land directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry.

A modern, easy to navigate website will provide a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

The magazine and awards do a great job in joining the dots between toy, nursery, gift, apparel, publishing, and of course licensing and this digital offering will further enhance our position as a trade media partner that offers a tangible response to advertising investment.

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

BE-BABY The multi award winning Tidy Tot Bib and Tray Kit just had a makeover. The iconic weaning kit from British brand Tidy Tot now comes packaged in a luxe soft grey zipped bag for easy storage and travel. This year also sees the introduction of a new colour variation – a beautifully muted sage green tray with contrasting bib which stays true to Tidy Tot’s unisex vibe. +44(0)1625404380 www.tidytot.co.uk Hall 11.2 Stand D061

LANISOH Lanisoh Compact Single Electric Breast Pump is full of power yet small, lightweight & easy to slip into your bag when away from home. The two-phase technology with five levels of suction, mean maximum comfort for mum when expressing breastmilk. +44(0)1132054207 www.lansinoh.co.uk Hall 11.2 Stand D038

INFANTINO B KIDS If you’re looking for funky beats, busy switches, and silly songs the Spin & Slide DJ Panda is perfect. For any minimaestros in the making they can push, slide, and spin the turntable knobs to activate the crossfader and pitch effects, changing the music and activating super sound effects. Two light up turntable drums have rotating rims for record-scratching sound effects. With busy beads on the headphones this Panda has it all. +31 207235190 www.bkidsfun.com Hall 11.2 Stand H041

OPUS INNOVATIONS Opus Innovations will be launching its new Happy Planet 100% biodegradable wipes at K+J this year. The wipes set new standards for pure and sustainable wipes as they contain 99.9% purified water with apple fruit extract and are made from dispersible cellulose wood fibers that are flushable and also biodegrade in 28 days. +44(0)01293516150 www.opus-innovations.com Hall 4.1 Stand C046

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

BRITAX ROMER Britax Römer will launch new Cosytoes for car seats to keep little ones snug and warm on cold days. The sleeping bags have been specifically designed for and crash tested with select Britax Römer car seats. They are available in Crystal Black, Letter Design and Comic Fun for all baby-safe infant carriers and the DUALFIX i-SIZE/SWINGFIX i-SIZE family starting Autumn 2018. +49 822136700 www.britax-roemer.de Hall 10.2 Stand D010

DIONO UK Traverze is the Diono super-compact stroller created to make traveling easier for families on the move.

Whether they’re pulling along in an airport with a toddler in tow, or folding down in an instant for speedy boarding, we’ve got it bagged and good to go. +44(0)1827310557 www.diono.com Hall 11.3 Stands C008, D008

JE PORTE MON BEBE Je Porte Mon Bébé’s carriers offer parents and their babies great choices in comfort. Well known for their beautiful colour combinations from subtle to intense, Je Porte Mon Bébé offer five baby carriers – The Original, The Basic, The Little Wrap Without a Knot, the PhysioCarrier and the last of the family, The Hoodie Carrier. All carriers are acknowledged by the Hip Dysplasia institute. +33141631494 www.Jeportemonbebe.com Hall 4.1 Stand A068

EASYTOTS EasyTots has delivered the first made to measure perfect fit Easymat designed specifically for the hugely popular and much loved Ikea Antilop high chair. It is thrilled to be the first to bring to the market a bespoke feeding accessory range aimed at providing a full coverage and strong suction solution for the worlds’ most popular high chairs. +44(0)1744334547 www.easytots.com Hall 4.1 Stand C041

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

BABY K’TAN EU (2012 LTD) Baby K’tan Carriers will be showcasing its range of swaddles and changing bags at K&J, including its new Weekender changing bag with built-in wet bag and anti-microbial lining. +44(0)1202 303777 www.babyktan.co.uk Hall 4.1, Stand B-04

NIBBLING JEWELLERY Nibbling Jewellery hero products will be showcasing its new Jet-Set Dummy Clips, Forest Friends collection of silicone and natural wood teethers and its new Rio and Havana stylish teething necklaces. +44(0)7943 958860 www.nibbling.co.uk Hall 4.1, Stand C-048

HARRY AND ROSE This year sees Harry & Rose bring a beautiful new range of baby body wash, soft lotion, hair body wash and nappyspray to the market. These gentle formulas and dermatologically tested products show off Harry & Rose’s pure, natural & organic feel. +44(0)1684 302974 www.harryandrose.com Hall 4.1 Stand C-045b

DIDOFY This year sees the launch of Didofy Lotus from Didofy, who are confident it will be a game-changer in the market. They are also thrilled that Didofy Lotus has been selected as a nominee for the KJ Innovation Award. +44(0)7793 712652 www.didofy.com Hall 4.1, Stand A-044

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why just travel, when you can traverze... the original luggage-style super-compact and superlight stroller created to make traveling easier for families on the move.

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diono.com

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WHAT’S NEW KIND UND JUGEND 2018 Showcasing at this year’s K+J show. 20 – 23 September

BUMKINS Hippychick welcomed four new sleeved bibs and three new super bib packs to the Bumkins collection in August. The soft watercolour’s, gold foiling and funky quotes are completely on trend and are already proving to be popular! The Hippychick team just cannot get enough. +001 480 481 3618 www.bumkins.com Hall 11.2 Stand H031

SWEET DREAMERS The wait is over! Ewan deluxe has arrived, the ultimate baby sleep aid just got better, helping babies to sleep within minutes. +44 (0)2392 262332 www.sweetdreamers.co.uk Hall 4.1 Stand B041

NANA’S MANNERS Nana’s Manners is thrilled to announce it will be adding teal blue and pink sets to its range. The new colours will be available at selected retailers from September 2018. It is excited to be developing more simple and effective products for children, believing the best way to build kids’ confidence is to help them learn independently. +44(0)20 3179 2350 www.nanasmanners.com Hall 4.1 Stand B042c

CO & CO BV For children as early as 12 months, this stylish, wooden Trybike with the three wheel option acts as a walker, offering a safe and sturdy support to toddlers taking their first, tentative steps. This revolutionary piece of kit will then adapt, with the simple turn of a spanner, to offer three further options for a child, as they develop in both age and confidence. +31623527450 www.trybike.nl Hall 00.0 Stand H00000

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FOCU S ON : ELECTRON I C LEA RN I N G Inset: Trends UK has been seeing consistently strong sales for its Peppa Pig range among others.

ELECTRIC Creating that perfect combination of learning and fun is the main remit for suppliers in the electronic toys category, with the products preparing children for the adult world while also stimulating fine and gross motor skills from an early age. PPS chats to some of the key players in the category to find out what they have coming up.

C

ombining elements of fun with learning is key in most toy categories, even more so when it comes to early learning aids (ELAs) and electronic toys. With most of the top-selling toys in the electronic entertainment market including an element of learning, it is clear that children are being entertained while parents are safe in the knowledge that key skills are being enhanced.

Over the last 12 months, VTech has been the number one manufacturer in the electronic entertainment subclass (which

excludes tablets) and is up 21.5%. This goes against the wider trend, with the category itself actually down by 4.2% (NPD, July 2017 to June 2018).

In addition to this, VTech also has eight of the top ten toys listed by NPD in the same period, with Kidizoom Duo, Kidi SuperStar and Kidizoom Smart Watch being listed as the top three items.

Autumn/winter 2018 will see a number of new additions and updates to some of VTech’s bestselling toys.

The company will be releasing the Kidizoom Duo 5.0 and Kidizoom Smart Watch DX2 among others, backed by key marketing initiatives.

“The Kidizoom Duo has been TV advertised throughout spring/summer and is also in line for another heavyweight

TV campaign in-line with the launch of the Kidizoom Duo 5.0, all the way through to mid-December,” explains senior brand manager Mike Lynch. “As well as this, this autumn/winter will also see a lot more of the ‘Kidi’ range – with the Smart Watch DX2, Action Cam 180, Kidi Super Star Lightshow, KidiConcert and KidiCom Max all benefitting from TV campaigns as well.”

Away from the ‘Kidi’ product stable, VTech is also welcoming Myla the Magical Make-Up Unicorn. Myla’s horn, eyes and wings light up in the colour applied to them from a special make-up palette, while a ‘magic’ microphone also allows children to sing songs with her.

Meanwhile, Trends UK has been seeing ‘consistently strong sales’ for its  Below and left: Piano DJ Mixi and Songy the Singer are new launches in Chicco’s Music & Fun range.

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Learn with Thomas Alphaphonics™

Peppa’s Interactive Playmat

New Count with Peppa Refresh

Flip and Learn Phone Peppa’s Sing & Learn Microphone

Mr Tumble Learning Pad

Expect so much more!

Trends Prog preschool 245x165 aug2018.indd 1 00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

Trends UK (National Accounts)

Wind Designs (Independents)

www.trendsuk.co.uk

www.wind-designs.com

For media enquiries:

Tel: +44 (0)1295 768078 Tel: +44 (0)1353 724140 Ane Olesen: Email: salesadmin@trendsuk.co.uk Email: sales@wind-designs.com ane@wirepr.eu ©2018 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2018 HIT Entertainment Limited. Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.

BBC logo TM & © BBC 1996. SOMETHING SPECIAL logo TM & © BBC 2004. MR TUMBLE TM & © BBC 2015. Licensed by BBC Worldwide Ltd.

OfficialPeppa

20/08/2018 16:12 04/09/2018 13:27

FOCU S ON : ELECTRON I C LEA RN I N G Left: Trends UK is launching Count with Peppa this autumn.

a child, enhancements such as lights and music also help excite their imagination.”

New launches this year from Chicco include the Music & Fun range which includes Piano DJ Mixi, allowing children to remix melodies with animated sounds and scratching noises to create their own tunes. There is also Songy the Singer, a karaoke toy for budding singers, with both toys featuring colourful LED lights and interactive sounds to keep youngsters entertained.

“The experience of technology is now so common for little ones and advances in the field mean that toys can provide advanced electronic features for a more cost-effective price,” concludes Holly. “To keep up with the latest trends, we are constantly evolving to offer electronic features which make play more engaging, stimulating and fun.”

With suppliers looking to keep innovating in the sector – as well as investing in building product awareness on TV and through other media – there is certainly plenty for retailers to get their teeth into when it comes to stocking electronic toys.

Right: VTech’s ‘Kidi’ product portfolio has benefitted from TV advertising. Below: Myla the Magical Make-Up Unicorn is a key launch for VTech this year.

 Peppa Pig, Thomas and Mr

Tumble ELA ranges, according to marketing director Lindsay Hardy. “We try hard to communicate that not all ELAs are doing exactly the same thing, so offering good price points and varied educational learning features means there is a product to suit different needs,” she explains. “Last year we introduced the new Peppa’s Interactive Playmat, that and the classic lines are doing really well.”

Arriving for autumn is Count with Peppa; with a focus on numbers, colours, recognising objects and following a sequence, the product allows preschoolers to have fun with the colourful play coins and hear three songs.

Understandably, Lindsay believes that using licences in the ELAs can further encourage children to listen, observe and interact. “Children will recognise the look and sounds from their favourite characters and learn with them, without making it feel like a chore,” she says. “The Peppa Pig, Thomas and Mr Tumble ELAs include activities for understanding colours, shapes, communication, phonetics and numeracy through interactive play. All presented in a fun way by a favourite

character that children can relate to.”

Trends UK is also investing in new TV ads for this year, aimed at parents to really push the learning benefits of the products. “A UK Mums TV campaign running in early autumn will further promote the Peppa Pig and Thomas ranges to an extensive audience, via bloggers and social media activity,” Lindsay continues. “We also have a specific year-long ELA PR programme in place that is securing coverage across all media.”

Chicco’s marketing manager, Holly John, says that the company saw great success last year with its Fit ‘N Fun range, in particular the Goal League and Jump ‘N Fit interactive toys.

“Both offer different play modes which have different light patterns and sound effects to offer a variety of features that will keep little ones engaged,” she says.

“Electronic toys are a key opportunity as they can really help bring playtime to life.

As well as helping hold the attention of

Powering Up At Retail “Point of sale units can key to showcasing the products in-store,” says VTech’s Mike Lynch. “These can either be on shelf units or FSDUs. These units really help to bring the products to life and can incorporate screens so that video content can be displayed, whether that is the TV advert to reaffirm that this is the product they have seen, or a demo video to showcase the features of the product.”

“POS units also allow consumers to be hands on with the toy so they know how it works and feels,” Mike adds.

Chicco’s Holly John concurs on the power of demonstration for retailers. “To fully demonstrate the features that electronic toys can offer, having a product out on the store floor for little ones to test out is ideal,” she says. “If displayed effectively, in a fun and exciting way, the sounds and lights of electronic toys can very quickly capture the interest of a child.”

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FACE TO FACE WI T H : EON E Inset: Ricky Zoom is the first ever preschool show entirely about bikes.

Brand Heroes

When it comes to enviable preschool portfolios, eOne is certainly right up there. With Peppa Pig ready to mark 15 years, a soaraway start for PJ Masks and the upcoming Ricky Zoom, there’s plenty in the portfolio to appeal to children, parents, licensees and retailers.

PPS chats to eOne Family & Brands’ evp of global licensing, Andrew Carley, about the company’s success.

“

I

t’s always been difficult launching a preschool brand,” Andrew Carley, evp global licensing at eOne Family & Brands, begins.

“The timescales and financial risk associated with the development and production of a show and getting broadcast commitment remain a challenge. That’s before you find a toy partner and get retail commitment.”

“There is a lot of competition all vying for the same limited shelf space Below: A host of activity will be accompanying the 15th anniversary of Peppa Pig next year.

and the demand for instant hits has increased. At the same time our philosophy remains the same – top quality content backed by a long-term approach to brand building.”

It’s a philosophy that has served eOne well. 2018 has so far been a ‘tremendous year’ for PJ Masks, with Andrew saying that the brand is now in a strong position with eOne having nurtured the initial enthusiasm into

Left: eOne’s evp global licensing, Family & Brands, Andrew Carley.

long-term growth which it will continue to build.

A Super Moon themed toy line will launch this autumn from Just Play/ Flair, which is inspired by new content from series two.

In addition, eOne will be building on existing success in nightwear and expanding its daywear collections, as well as deepening its publishing programme and continuing its retail activations.

The newest member of the eOne portfolio will be Ricky Zoom, a CGI action comedy adventure series that follows the adventures of Ricky (a little red motorbike with a zest for speed) and his friends. From the producers of PJ Masks, the first series is currently in production and is due to air from spring/summer 2019, with a global master toy partner having just come on board. A capsule range of core vehicles and play-sets are  PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Happy and hygenic

Pacifiers that close when dropped, new to Hippychick

www.hippychick.com 01278 434440

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FACE TO FACE WI T H : EON E

Full of Character

Inset: 2018 has been a tremendous year for PJ Masks.

 being planned with further details

due to be announced shortly.

“We’re really excited about Ricky Zoom – it is the first ever preschool show entirely about bikes, which we think is a huge opportunity,” says Andrew. “And it looks absolutely stunning.”

Ricky Zoom will benefit from the support of highly experienced brand management teams based in local markets and the existing partnerships forged will give eOne a quicker route to market.

“Our experience on Peppa Pig and PJ Masks has given us the necessary tools to understand what it takes to build great content into a long-term international brand at every level,” explains Andrew.

“It gives us a very good foundation from which to launch the show.”

Meanwhile, the most significant eOne brand is still Peppa Pig, which continues to remain incredibly resilient in a highly competitive market. “Peppa’s on-going success in international markets has been staggering,” says Andrew. “Particularly China, where the licensing has exploded.”

There’s also the small matter of a rather important milestone birthday and so 2019 will see a raft of 15th anniversary celebrations for Peppa Pig across the UK. “It will be marked throughout the year with lots of exciting plans, a brand new touring stage show, new episodes, top tier partnerships and retail events, in addition to further expanding our product ranges in new and existing categories,”

enthuses Andrew. “There is also a big tentpole event planned for spring 2019 to celebrate the anniversary.”

The theme for 2019 is ‘Family Celebrations’ and, while the majority of the product ranges will remain core, there will be a number of skus which tie specifically into the theme.

This will range from party themed figures and accessories through to clothing ranges which tie into festival and family celebration trend guides and support the theatrical releases.

Discussions are also taking place around brand partnerships, collaborations and commemorative products.

With all this going on, it could be said that eOne is fast becoming a ‘go to’ licensor for top preschool shows.

Would Andrew agree? “It’s an amazing accolade and yes, of course, we remain as positive for Ricky Zoom as we do for all our other shows because they are based on the underlying principal of high quality animation backed by very engaging story telling. If you get that right everything else will follow – most importantly your fan base!”

Master toy partner Character Options has played a key part in the success of Peppa Pig at retail over the years, and there is plenty more to come from the company as it keeps pace with the on-screen and anniversary activities.

The classic Peppa Pig Family Home, red car and primary character figures have all proved their longevity over the years, while a new Family Figure Pack which launched in January quickly became one of Character’s best selling lines, along with new figure and accessory packs.

Looking ahead, the new Peppa Pig Mobile Medical Centre and Nurse Peppa Plush tie in with the ‘When I Grow Up’ theme from the show. The play-set opens up to reveal a whole operating theatre inside with Nurse Peppa and Dr Brown Bear figures, while Nurse Peppa Plush is a talking soft toy, encouraging role-play with the addition of an otoscope and electronic stethoscope.

Also new is Follow Me Peppa. The large interactive Peppa Pig figure has two different play modes and four fun movements and sound effects.

Peppa will play a series of sound effects and children then need to follow the sequence by activating the relevant touch points.

Looking into 2019, Character Options will be launching one of its biggest new ranges of Peppa Pig toys with play-sets, figures and soft toys to reflect many of the characters, locations and themes in the programme. For example, some new party-themed products will be introduced, as well as some new vehicles and figures based on some of Peppa’s new friends. On top of all this, there will also be a complete packaging refresh.

Below: The Peppa Pig Mobile Medical Centre is among the new launches from Character Options.

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FOCU S ON : DOLLS A N D P LAY-S ET S Inset: HTI has a diverse range of product in the space, from Baby Annabell through to its Mamas and Papas range.

ALL

DOLLED UP

The preschool doll category has evolved in recent years – while traditional dolls continue to perform well, play patterns have also embraced the complementary play-set sector, opening up further opportunities for suppliers and retailers. Add those all important accessories, prams and pushchairs into the mix and you have a key growth sector. PPS finds out more.

F

rom the more traditional style dolls such as Baby Annabell and Cry Babies, through to soft bodied dolls, play-sets with recognisable characters given a makeover for small hands and accompanying accessories like prams and pushchairs, the doll category has always been a busy one for retailers.

Children continue to follow the natural role-play pattern when it comes to the category and toy companies and retailers are certainly making the most of this, with a host of new and updated lines launched each year.

IMC has been having a ‘fantastic time’ with its doll portfolio, as head of UK marketing Julie Ball explains.

“The reaction within trade and with the end consumer have both been extremely positive,” she says.

Notably, the Cry Babies brand saw huge success in 2017, with sales up 184% (NPD FY 2017). Following the successful launch of Cry Babies Katie in Q4 2017, new characters joining the range in 2018 include Nala, Dotty and Lady among others. Also in the IMC

Right: The Puppet Company launched its Wilberry Dolls and Dancers this summer.

slate is Baby Wee – a new collection of interactive dolls which, well, we’ll give you one guess! – while Baby Wow Megan is the newest addition to the Baby Wow portfolio. Collectable doll and play-set range Cry Babies Magic Tears, meanwhile, will be IMC’s biggest launch to date.

There are 24 dolls to collect this autumn/

winter, with the mini additions coming with six accessories.

“To stand out in this incredibly crowded category the product, brand message, marketing and retail execution all needs to be on point,” Julie concludes.

For Juratoys, the Mademoiselle range of doll sets and accessories from Janod is proving popular since its launch earlier this year. “Within the range we have a wooden high chair, pushchair, pram, cradle, changing table, scooter

Introducing Orange Tree Kids Orange Tree Toys is expanding its portfolio this year with the launch of Orange Tree Kids. The new range will initially include soft toys, which were seen for the first time at Autumn Fair, with the brand then set to develop further into 2019.

The toys feature both dolls and animals and come in two different sizes, an assortment of complementing colours and a total of 12 designs. “All the dolls and animals are beautifully made with different fabrics making them a real luxury product,” says Orange Tree Toys’ Phoebe Goodchild.

Left: Orange Tree Kids made its debut at Autumn Fair in September.

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FOCU S ON : DOLLS A N D P LAY-S ET S

and dolls house,” says Michelle Probert,

sales and marketing manager. Joining the line this year is the three-storey Happy Day Dolls house with a retro design for dolls measuring 30cm and including 12 pieces of furniture.

“Janod is known for its excellent quality, stylish French design and added play value,” continues Michelle.

“And the Mademoiselle collection encompasses all of these qualities. It’s important to design products which are good quality, educational and are fun for children to play with.”

The Puppet Company launched its Wilberry Dolls and Dancers this summer and is already placing more orders. “We’re offering a different style of doll with this new figurative collection dressed in delightful costumes and we are really pleased with the reaction so far,” comments director Peter Lockey, “Our ballerina-themed dolls have been the most popular and there is something very enticing about their beautifully designed ballet costumes.

Other stars in the collection

Right: After a successful 2017, IMC is further expanding the Cry Babies range.

HTI’s Mission HTI has a diverse product range which replicates traditional products that parents will have used themselves.

Among these, Baby Annabell goes from strength-to-strength, while the Carriage Pram is a firm favourite, as is the Mamas and Papas Junior Cruise Twin Stroller. New for autumn/winter include fresh colourways for the Argos exclusive Mamas and Papas range, while HTI’s Peppa Pig prams have also been given a refresh.

“As parents, there is nothing better than watching a child get lost in play, where those nurturing moments with their favourite playset, dolls and prams allows them to live the moment,” says licensing and marketing manager Michelle Dalziel.

“We endeavour to create products which aid learning and nurturing; copycat play is a key part to a child’s development and we aim to create products which assist in this early stage of development as well as providing lots of fun.”

Inset: A good play-set needs to be engaging and really fun says Playmobil.

include the unicorn and mouse dancers.”

As the collection is still new, the existing line will run for the remainder of the autumn, although Peter explains the company will look at bringing some refreshes in for spring 2019 to offer retailers and consumers more choice.

For Flair, licensed lines have been standing out in the category on the playset side, with PJ Masks continuing to be a top seller and spring seeing the arrival of Disney Junior’s Vampirina line.

Head of marketing Emmanuelle Cadet says that this autumn will see the release of the PJ Masks Super Moon Adventure collection, with the hero play-set being the Super Moon Adventure HQ Rocket, while a new Mission Control HQ play-set for the core collection also arrives.

The Vampirina line will be bolstered with a three storey (plus Bat Tower) play-set called the Scare B&B, while another Disney Junior favourite – Puppy Dog Pals – has joined Flair’s portfolio.

The master toy line has just launched and includes figures, accessories and a main Dog House play-set.

“It is, of course, a very competitive sector,” says Emmanuelle, “but products that truly embody the property features – we

like to call them ‘show to shelf’ – will add to the chances of success.”

The final word goes to Playmobil’s social media and marketing coordinator Adam Moore, who believes a good play-set needs to be ‘engaging and really fun’, allowing the child to explore the toy and theme.

“It should allow realism but also the ability for children to submerge themselves in the world of pretend where they can create their own stories,” continues Adam. “Our play-sets are designed specifically to encourage children to use their imagination and experience real world play and continue to be received extremely well.”

The Aquarium range has been selling well for Playmobil since launch earlier this year, plus City Life and City Action and Fairies, while September sees the launch of its popular Advent Calendars (which can be used with any of the Playmobil sets).

Left: The Mademoiselle range of dolls and accessories is performing well for Juratoys. Below: Flair has welcomed Puppy Dog Pals to its portfolio this year.

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Vital Baby 2019 is coming we’re ready, are you?

2018 has seen ideas flourish in to new and exciting product development. Step inside the cloud at Kind + Jugend 2019 for an exclusive viewing before it’s too late…

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FOCU S ON : H EA LT H & H YG I EN E

New developments across the essential health and hygiene sector include everything from bath seats and nappy bins to sanitisers and humidifiers. PPS scrubs up and gets involved.

Keeping It

CLEAN A

s one of the core nursery and preschool product sectors, the health and hygiene market is dedicated to keeping babies as healthy and happy as possible. With their delicate immune systems and a seemingly never-ending list of potential risks and hazards, products which can help reduce new parents’ natural anxiety about keeping their babies well are welcomed with open arms.

“Modern parents are looking for safe and easy-to-use products that they can trust and rely on in their busy daily parenting routines,” agreed Charlotte Young, marketing and product development coordinator at Summer Infant.

The company believes that innovation is ‘very important’ to this sector. “We are Below: BabyMoov’s humidifier the Hygro+ offers multiple-health benefits for the whole family. Right: Summer Infant’s My Bath Seat is quick and easy to install and makes bath time extra-safe

Above: The Gro Company’s Grotowel and Grorobe are ideal for toddler bathtimes.

continually looking to design the latest products with parents in mind in order to offer a helping hand through the parenting journey,” Charlotte explains. “We also look to stay ahead of new safety regulations to ensure we give parents that extra peace of mind when using our products.”

Summer Infant’s hero product for 2018 is the My Bath Seat which will be launching shortly for AW18.

Currently the only bath seat with side suction cups, it offers a greater level of support and stability. “Its unique design ensures that the infant is secure and allows parents to use both hands to focus on cleaning and having fun with their baby,” Charlotte adds.

Rob Pascoe is the group commercial director at The Gro Company, which is well-known for its extensive sleeping

The Natural Touch Over the last 12 months, Vital Baby has seen a double digit growth across its award-winning health and safety product range.

“Parents are very aware that many sanitising and sterilising products contain chemicals and alcohol and are always looking for a safer and gentler solution,” says customer support manager Tracey Gilbert. “ Vital Baby Aquaint Sanitising Water is our 2018 hero product as it can be used from birth and has been endorsed by Allergy UK as suitable for people with allergies or sensitive skin.”

The multipurpose, 100% natural antibacterial sanitising water kills 99.9% of bacteria in seconds. Containing no alcohol, harsh chemicals, fragrances or preservatives, it is safe for use on hands and body and around the home, with no need to rinse.

Above: Vital Baby Aquaint provides parents with an unrivalled level of eco-friendly hygiene.

bag offering as well as the colourchanging room thermometer, the Groegg2. “Modern parents are looking for solutions to help them navigate their way through parenthood,” Rob says. “Safety is a top priority and so parents choose products that can help them keep their babies safe and make PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Come and see us at:

Hall 11.2 Stand D038

Helping mums to...

Pump

Sto re

Fe e d

Care

Meet the purple brand

at the Kind + Jugend trade show in Cologne!

For over 30 years, Lansinoh® has been helping mums get to the best start with breastfeeding, with scientifically researched and clinically proven products – like our multi-award winning HPA® Lanolin nipple cream, recommended by mums and healthcare professionals alike. With over 65 million containers sold worldwide, our HPA® Lanolin is market leader in many of the 80 countries where it is available. Our range also includes the new pump-store-feed solution that helps mum and baby enjoy all the benefits of breastfeeding for longer.

We are always looking to expand into new trade channels and territories, so come and join us on our success journey! www.lansinoh.co.uk 00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

05/09/2018 18:21

FOCU S ON : H EA LT H & H YG I EN E Inset: Baby Nappy Spray from Harry & Rose offers a natural solution.

looking after them that little bit easier.”

A new bath-time range for 2018 has seen the company extend its reach in the market as it continues to produce useful, modern collections that are both appealing and practical for parents and ongoing innovation ensures that the latest technology and fabric developments have been applied to the new line.

“Our latest innovation is the new Grobath range of towelling products which are all made from Puredry Microfibre,” adds Rob. “It includes a unique patent-pending swaddle shaped towel, the Groswaddledry, which can help calm and settle newborns once out of the bath.”

Elsewhere, baby health expert BabyMoov has seen significant growth across the health and hygiene category over the past 12 months, with children’s physical wellbeing becoming an increasing concern and priority.

“From our perspective this sector has already performed better than last year in terms of sales, with certain core products completely selling out in the first half of 2018,” said marketing executive Annabelle Cording. “Multi-function solutions are always appreciated by busy parents, no matter how many children they have. If a product can help parents

Harry & Rose A natural organic spray, the Baby Nappy Spray from Harry & Rose is made in the UK with safe and fully-tested ingredients. The spray helps freshen, soothe, moisturise and protect sensitive skin while also preventing and treating nappy rash.

“We believe it is an essential item when changing nappies,” said managing director Alba Cusworth. “It is easy to use – just spray and pat on skin – making this a much more hygienic solution for the nappy-changing routine.”

to easily monitor their child’s health more closely and with better accuracy then that will always be popular.”

BabyMoov’s hero product for 2018 is the Hygro+ baby humidifier, which has ‘gone crazy’ this year, making it hard for the company to keep up with demand.

The success of the Hygro+ lies in its multi-function, multiple-health benefits for the whole family as it purifies the air, retains complete control over room temperature and humidity and acts as a gentle colour-changing night light

and soothing essential oil diffuser.

“We receive a lot of messages from mums amazed by the product and how it has turned bedtime around,” reveals Annabelle, “making a real difference not just for baby but for them as parents too. One mum told me it even stopped her husband snoring!”

One of the most critical areas of the health and hygiene market is nappy changing and disposal. Angelcare, which is distributed in the UK by Hardenberg & Co, has seen business for its Nappy Disposal System grow over the last 12 months as an increasing numbers of parents have been opting for its convenient award-winning nappy bin.

“The demands of nappy-related hygiene for mum and dad remain relatively simple, even after all these years,” says Hardenberg’s marketing manager Emma Dutton. “They want the cleanest solution for their babies and homes while retaining a stylish design.

Increasingly, we’re seeing environmental considerations moving to the forefront of parents’ minds, so anything companies can do to improve their impact on the wider environment is beneficial.”

Angelcare is always looking at ways to innovate the Nappy Disposal System, particularly when considering the environment and so the bin’s cassette is made from 50% recycled materials.

“Anything we can do to help put less plastic into the environment is a winner,” explains Emma. “Our updated version features softer lines and better capacity – it’s a win-win for the consumer!”

With so many new options on the market, its clear that companies are doing their utmost to take the worry out of keeping new babies as healthy as possible – leaving plenty of time for new parents to find something else to worry about!

Inset: The latest version of the Angelcare Nappy Disposal System has been brought up to date with softer lines.

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04/09/2018 12:57

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戀愀戀礀猀琀礀氀攀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀

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20TH - 23RD SEPTEMBER 2018 DOREL JUVENILE STAND, HALLE 4.1 (A020)

00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

D TO R A RW K FO

OO L E W

AND T S UR

OO T U YO

05/09/2018 18:23

FOCU S ON : MOB I LI T Y

Have Wheels; WILL TRAVEL Whether parents are going for a walk or jumping in the car, getting out and about with a newborn/toddler/preschooler can be an event in and of itself. But the whole affair can be made significantly easier with the right product, carefully chosen to meet the family’s individual needs. PPS takes a look at what’s on offer.

W

hile it can be tempting to stay inside and close the curtains on the outside world when a new baby joins the family, in reality that’s not terribly practical. School runs still need to happen, the ‘big shop’ still has to be done and, at some point, cabin fever will eventually kick in. So with reports of consumer belts tightening across the board, how has business been for nursery’s ‘big ticket’ purchases?

“The mobility industry has performed really well for us over the last year,” reports Luke Burns, UK country manager for Cybex. “We don’t believe there is one single thing that parents look for when it comes to choosing a pushchair. We combine exceptional design, maximum safety and functionality – three key elements that we believe parents look for when choosing a pushchair.”

With the baby market rapidly changing, Cybex uses its in-house expertise to develop pushchairs – such as the robust and styilish Balios S

Right: The new Ruk-bug SOLIS pushchair is ultraportable and comes with with a three-way carry system.

and the award-winning rotatable seat Eezy S Twist – that it believes will offer parents the complete package, so they do not have to compromise on their personal style or functional requirements.

The Eezy S Twist is ideal for travel and everyday use in the city thanks to its lightweight and compact design. It has been developed with a wide range of smart features, particularly the unique one-hand rotating seat unit, which offers parent or forward-facing modes.

“We have already seen it take off in the market,” Luke says, “and we’re excited to see how it continues to perform in 2019.”

Cosatto has also had a strong 2018, Left: The Balios S from Cybex is a robust and stylish pushchair.

Inset: Cosatto’s Woosh is a real headturner and is the brand’s first compact stroller with travel system capability.

Inspired By Life “The new Ruk-bug SOLIS pushchair has been designed with fun and freedom in mind and is setting new standards in safety, user-experience and style. It is the first pushchair on the market to have a telescopic curved frame which provides greater safety and stability, delivering the strength and size of a pushchair with the convenience of a lightweight stroller. It is both lightweight and compact, with clever touches including the easy-to-use magnetised buckle, a detachable shopping basket and a clever three-way carry system including rucksack straps, making it ultra-portable.”

Emelyne Bradley, sales and marketing director, Ruk-bug

despite the ‘difficult retail landscape’. “We’ve had another exciting year,” said ceo Andrew Kluge. “There have been some challenges but we have managed to adapt and stay on track.”

The colourful baby product company has seen a series of new product launches over the last 12 months, such as the Woosh, Dino and a number of car seats. “The Woosh XL is probably our best ever stroller,” says Andrew. “It’s superbly crafted and is our first compact stroller with travel system capability.

We’re also launching Wow XL, perfect for parents looking for a durable and fully flexible twin travel system.”

Cosatto will also be revealing a new partnership with the world-leading PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Come and visit a re-imagined We Made Me with the launch of our 2019 product range at Kind + Jugend 20th – 23rd September 2018 Hall 11.3 Stand: D008

wemademe.com

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04/09/2018 13:05

FOCU S ON : MOB I LI T Y Inset: Bébécar’s new i-Top is a luxury pram with a seat unit that folds extra small.

Sitting Comfortably “Our hero product for this year has been the Merlin, our Group 0+/1 360° rotating car seat. With its extended rear-facing Group 1 option up to 18kgs and a deep, comfortable recline, it has gained a popular following. The growing awareness of extended rear-facing car seats combined with the convenience of rotating has increased the demand for such products. For 2019 we are introducing the Arthur, a premium Group 0+/1/2/3. With an almost lie-flat recline and deep wedge it is perfect for newborns and rear-faces for longer before becoming a high back booster. We expect it to be extremely popular!”

Jessica Milln, marketing manager, Cozy N Safe

 BabyLab at the University of Sussex, as

the brand highlights the baby science behind its latest creations. “The biggest development for us this year is about our brand and how we communicate with parents,” explains Andrew. “Right across the range we will be revealing how our first-stage products are using colour, images and patterns to engage and stimulate babies’ eyes and minds.”

Innovation is equally important to Bugaboo, with its most recent launch, the Bugaboo Fox, raising the bar in smart design for parents and children.

“It’s our hero product for 2018,” says country manager Aaron White. “It has driven a successful period for the company and provided a basis for growth and further retail opportunities.”

A limited edition model, the Bugaboo Fox Stellar, features 3M Scotchlite reflective material on the wheel caps and the front and rear of the chassis.

“The reflective parts make the pushchair stand out in the dark when they are illuminated by a car’s headlights,”

Aaron explains. “It’s another way that Bugaboo allows parents to keep doing the things they love doing. We are very excited about the launch.”

As far as trends go, Aaron believes that while every family’s needs are different, most are looking for longevity and so the Bugaboo Fox is made to last, using durable materials and fabrics.

“It is durable, adaptable and ready for anything,” Aaron adds. “As a brand, our passion for movement underpins everything we produce and ensures that we always focus on delivering the most comfortable and smoothest journeys for both parent and child.”

Bébécar UK also places a strong emphasis on the comfort and safety of the child, with commercial director Kevin Golding declaring it, ‘the single most important thing for anyone to consider about a pushchair’.

“The child’s comfort and safety should be everyone’s priority,” he asserts.

“I think it’s important to talk about the experience of the child in these products – the benefits, or potential risk, to their wellbeing and development.”

It’s just as well then, that while Above left: Cozy N Safe’s Merlin is an award-winning Group 0+/1 360° rotating car seat which offers extended rear facing, a deep recline and high levels of comfort. Below: The Bugaboo Fox Stellar – seen here in bassinet mode – features reflective elements making it safer for parents venturing out at night. Below right: The award-winning Peg Perego Book 51 S modular system offers the perfect compact chassis for urban living.

Bébécar designs beautiful-looking pushchairs (with refreshed fabric collections each year), the company has also given lots of thought to the comfort of both parent and baby.

Child-centred design including ventilated carrycots, reclining backrests and adjustable suspension compliments parent-focused features such as one-handed folding. “Our new luxury pram the i-Top can be folded freestanding, without having to bend down,” says Kevin, giving an example.

“It’s a really valuable feature for a mum recovering from a caesarean section.”

Designing products which work for the parent is an essential part of the mobility market and stylish Italian company Peg Perego places a strong emphasis on quality. “Of course parents want products that look good; that is a given,” says Phil Howe, UK and Ireland country manager. “But up close and under scrutiny, parents need equipment which won’t let them down.”

Phil is confident that Peg Perego’s reputation for creating quality products with attention to detail is behind the company’s growing sales in the UK. “We have had a very busy and productive 2018,” he says, “and have doubled our sales during the first half of the year. We are delighted with those results and are on course to strengthen our position even further by the end of the year.”

Leading the way for a similarly successful end to 2018 are the new Ypsi 

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Love the curve

The ultimate pushchair, for the ultimate lifestyle.

• First pushchair to market with a telescopic curved frame, for greater safety.

• First pushchair to market with a magnetised harness buckle for ease of use.

• First pushchair to market with a detachable shopping basket.

Ruk-bug SOLIS delivers the strength and size of a pushchair with the convenience of a stroller.

Convenient 3-way carry system: • grab it by the handle • carry it over the shoulder • or wear it with the rucksack straps It comes with fully removable, washable fabrics and is suitable from birth to 22kgs. Available with a wide range of accessories to fit the ultimate lifestyle.

Ruk-bug SOLIS sets new standards in safety, user-experience and style.

Are you ready for the Ruk-bug experience?

Visit us at Kind & Jugend in Cologne, Hall 04.1 Stand B-053a.

Or contact us now at sales@ruk-bug.com

www.ruk-bug.com

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Born from experience, inspired by life.

24/08/2018 17:29 05/09/2018 18:25

FOCU S ON : MOB I LI T Y

A Polarised Market “Launching the world’s first iSize highback booster east earlier in the year has driven huge growth for us as we are the only brand to offer an iSize approved seat from birth-to-12years. We have seen the market polarise between the premium, feature-full brands where retailers can make a good margin and the entry-price, basic seats. Parents are looking for ‘value’ more than ever – but that doesn’t mean the cheapest. They are looking for seats that can justify their price with genuine safety features.”

Paul Sirett, UK country manager, BeSafe Above: A modular BeSafe display stand shows off the i-Size-approved iZi FLEX FIX highback booster.

 Stroller and Ypsi Combi as well as two

special editions of the award-winning Book 51 Modular System: the Mon Amour with rose gold chassis and the dark grey Polo with white leather detail.

All will be launching at Kind + Jugend and will be available to order in October.

Unsurprisingly, Kind + Jugend will be playing host to hundreds of new mobility products this year, with some of them making a real impact in the industry. New company Didofy will be

Getting Creative “There is a demand for creative design backed up by quality and our mima Xari continues to perform strongly, so we are carefully increasing our network of independent retail outlets.

The mix and match initiative gives customers total freedom to choose their perfect pushchair for a truly personalised product.

New for 2018/2019, we are launching a carrycot for the zigi by mima, a beautiful compact buggy we launched earlier this year. We are also launching the contemporary Graphite Grey chassis for the mima Xari, offering a modern look.”

Selina Russell, founder, Cheeky Rascals

launching an auto-folding, self-charging three-in-one premium travel system at the show; the Didofy Lotus.

Managing director Christos Votsis believes that parents are primarily looking for convenience and ease of use. The Didofy Lotus – which has inbuilt suspension for a smooth ride – auto-folds at the touch of a button and self-charges using innovative dynamos behind the wheels which covert the energy of walking into powering the battery.

“We have spent the last 12 months preparing for this launch,” says Christos.

“For many years the premium end of the market has competed using very similar features with little overall differentiation. We believe that the Didofy Lotus will disrupt this!”

Above: The popular Doona will be available in a selection of new colours, including racing green.

Right: The Didofy Lotus will be the first autofolding pushchair under 15kg to hit the market.

Below: This contemporary graphite grey chassis for Cheeky Rascal’s mima Xari offers a fresh modern edge.

Amiad Raviv from Simple Parenting, the brand behind the Doona car seat stroller, knows a thing or two about launching something completely unique into the mobility market. After launching the world’s first hybrid car seat and pushchair a few years ago, 2017/2018 saw Simple Parenting establishing the Doona as the most innovative car seat in the market.

“Doona is currently sold in more than 60 countries globally,” reveals Amiad, “and every month more and more families around the world chose Doona as their car seat and buggy of choice.”

In the coming months, the newest

Doona collection (featuring six new colourways) will give the popular product a face-lift, making it even more appealing to fashion-forward families.

“We believe that in the coming years brands will keep on pushing the envelope on both safety and fashion,” says Amiad. “We expect to see more connected products in this space and more co-operations between baby gear brands and fashion companies and designers.”

It seems then, that there’s a brand out there perfect for each families’ individual needs – and that safety, comfort, convenience, innovation and style will remain at the heart of the mobility sector for some time to come.

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Visit us at in Cologne

END KIN DV&isJitUuGs at in CoHloagllne

39D 30 CE0N

0JUG .2DB& 10IN K

Hall 039 B 10.2 030 C pegperego.com

Elite. Love is in the details.

pegperego.com

Elite. Love is in the details.

Design, attention to detail, quality materials and workmanship. This is the Navetta Elite carrycot, included in the brand new modular system that, together with the Pop-Up seat, the Primo Viaggio SL car seat, the Book chassis and Design,bag, attention to detail, quality materials workmanship. the Navetta Elite “Made carrycot, in the the changing will care for you, and your child and as they grow. WithThis PegisPerego, our proud in included Italy” heritage brand new modular system that, together with the Pop-Up seat, the Primo Viaggio SL car seat, the Book chassis and is woven into every detail. the changing bag, will care for you, and your child as they grow. With Peg Perego, our proud “Made in Italy” heritage is woven into every detail.

Modular Book 51 S Elite Modular Book 51 S Elite

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WHAT’S NEW MOBILITY JOOLZ The new Joolz Hub is compact yet comfortable, and fully equipped with Joolz premium features. Its compact size and fold are great for any mode of transportation, and easy storage. The large rear wheels guarantee a smooth ride. +31 202246643 www,my-joolz.com Hall 4.1 Stand A059

BRITAX ROMER One of Britax Römer’s most beloved strollers, the Britax Holiday comes with new advanced features in the same compact, lightweight form. The integrated footrest for the child’s feet and a zipper-adjusted backrest allow for a recline position of the seat, making it more comfortable for long days. It comes with a new swivel lock on the front wheels and weighs just 5.4 kg. +49 822136700 www.britax-roemer.de Hall 10.2 Stand D010 E019

RED KITE BABY The Kuro is a stroller designed to offer style along with an abundance of features to make days out enjoyable for both little ones and parents. Ease of use has been taken care of when designing this lightweight stroller with smooth steering and a reversable seat unit which also reclines and extends in just a few simple clicks. +44(0)1454 326562 www.redkitebaby.co.uk

COSATTO It really is a jungle out there! But thanks to the new exciting Dino Mighty range from Cosatto, the getting around experience has become complete. Woosh is the compact from-birth pushchair with big solutions.

Suitable up to 25kg, the sturdy chassis lets your toddler use it for longer. With lockable front swivel wheels and all-round suspension, nothing’s getting in Woosh’s way. +44 (0)1204861007 www.cosatto.com Hall 4.1 Stand A060

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Hands on Fun! Toomies love to have fun!

In a world dominated by learning and developmental messages, Toomies stands for ‘sheer joy of play’.

So, get ready to play…beep, bop, squirt and splash!

Pic & Pop

Pop & Hatch

Foam Cone Factory

Turtle Bath Salon

• New TV & demo videos for 2018 • Key PR partnerships including key influencer activations • Good Toy Guide stamp of approval & developmental endorsement • High profile TV sponsorship for the first time ever

Contact us today to find out more.

Phone: 01392 281 927 Email: ukcustomerservices@tomy.com www.uk.tomy.com

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30/08/2018 17:45 04/09/2018 13:26

TA LKI N G TO : B RI TA X

Britax:

Designed In Germany

Baby product company Britax Römer has recently moved all of its car seat research and development to Leipheim, Germany. PPS spoke to Richard Frank, director of Britax Global Research and Development to find out more about taking ‘Designed in Germany’ worldwide.

Testing, Testing

Inset: The ‘Designed in Germany’ and ‘Designed in Europe’ labels have good reputations around the world.

B

usiness globalisation – or the ‘small world effect’ – is increasing all the time and the child safety category is no different. As markets blend and imports/ exports travel further, it makes sense that more countries around the world are adopting the same regulations and safety standards. Global companies are increasingly pulling together key components of their business into one, worldwide, department.

Britax Römer recently decided to do just that, by consolidating its regional research and development (R&D) into one global team based in the European headquarters in Leipheim, Germany.

Previously, its car seats had been designed locally – by each territory, for each territory; but the new R&D centre will be responsible for designing innovations and new products for global markets including the US, Australia, Asia, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

“We are thrilled about this new responsibility,” says Richard, who is leading the new set-up. “I am very proud of my team because it shows trust and recognition in their performance.”

Richard is keen to outline the thinking behind taking ‘Designed in Germany’ to a global audience. “Our goal is to develop global, market-driven products according

Left: Richard Frank, director of Britax Global Research and Development, is heading up the operation.

to Britax’s unique design language, high safety standards, performance and quality. This change will make our operations around the world more consistent.”

Additional resources will also mean that all regions will now be able to profit from exciting new products and technologies, although Richard emphasises that developing global technologies will not come at the price of local nuances and needs.

“We are not looking to turn our European products into global products,” he explains. “One of the reasons that we consolidated the global R&D resources into Europe is because we see that more and more countries around the world, for example China and Brazil, are adopting the European norm, either

The UK facility has always played an important part in Britax Römer’s European operations. It has been in operation for 18 years and in addition to offices, logistics and production, it also houses a unique testing facility and is an approved technical service agent for the VCA (Vehicle Certification Agency).

“With the new R&D centre up and running, the Andover-based testing facility will take on an even more important role,” says Richard. “As it is being rebuilt to run international regulatory and consumer tests for regions outside of Europe.”

exactly or in a similar form. It makes sense for our team to use their experience with European regulatory standards to build products for global regions.”

“In our case,” he explains, “we will follow the trend of globalisation, but also aim for a modular construction of the child seat, which will allow us to integrate regional applications of key components and key functions into our products. In other words, we will be working closely with our regions to develop products for them.”

Globalisation might be making the world smaller, but with its new ‘Designed in Germany’ R&D base, Britax Römer is making sure it keeps thinking big.

Right: A modular child seat construction will allow Britax Römer to include regional functions.

PROGRESSIVE PRESCHOOL

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CONTACT YOUR JUMBO SALES REP FOR MORE INFORMATION Jumbo Games, 2 Carters Row, Hatfield Park, Hatfield, UK, AL9 5NB Telephone: 01707-289289 Email: uk.saleshotline@jumbo.eu www.jumbo.eu

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WHAT’S NEW HIPPYCHICK Twistshake Click Mat & Plate and Twistshake Click Mat Mini are new brands to Hippychick this summer. The Twistshake click mat and plate has been developed to make feeding time easier, more productive and more fun. Easily attach the Twistshake plate with just a click, the mat then sticks to the table or highchair making the plate almost impossible to move, even for an energetic toddler! +44(0)1278434440 www.hippychick.com

TRENDS UK Come and count with Peppa Pig electronic learning toy – Count With Peppa. Peppa asks questions about numbers, colours and objects, and when you feed the appropriate play coin into her purse she counts them and responds with further questions. +44(0)1295 768078 www.trendsuk.co.uk

SKIP HOP Skip Hop, the innovative parenting brand which offers stylish yet functional ‘must-haves made better’ adds new stylish lines to their popular changing bag range.

Refresh your wardrobe this AW18 with Skip Hop’s fashionable and chic designs. +44 (0)1582 434250 www.skiphop.com

PAUL LAMOND Roald Dahl has been loved by little ones for decades and DRi Licensing’s classic property is now more popular than ever. Exciting new launches include Paul Lamond Games The Enormous Crocodile Memory Game and Giant Floor Puzzle. And brand new from Creative Tops is a James and The Giant Peach kids’ bamboo dinner set.

020 7254 0100 www.paul-lamond.com

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Reach O ver

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No.1*

pre-school

No.1*

Girls’ Compilation

* No.2 hool pre-sc

Loved by children, trusted by parents. *ABC January - June 2018 (average net circulation)

Tel: 01743 364433 00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

www.redan.co.uk 04/09/2018 13:14

WHAT’S NEW BOWRON Warm in winter, cool in summer, Bowron’s Babycare range combines the necessity for practicality, durability and safety with the desirability of softness, comfort and luxury from a natural material. It’s is an ideal and versatile travel companion. The product is fully washable, can be professionally dry-cleaned and the familiar comfort of the soft wool fibre ensures babies will feel secure and content wherever they go. +44 (0)1454 327818 www.bowron.com

THE RED CASTLE The Red Castle Cocoonababy is an ergonomic cocoon that helps newborns adapt to life outside the womb. Red Castle have expanded its Cocoonababy and accessories range to include three new designs.

The contemporary pastel patterns complement the brand’s existing signature colours of classic white, pearl grey and chalky pink.

Natalie Jackson +44 (0)203 1376620

ORANGE TREE TOYS Orange Tree Toys is launching an exciting new brand for Autumn 2018. Orange Tree Kids is focused on beautiful and fun products for children. The first launch includes brightly coloured eco friendly dinner sets and a collection of beautiful soft dolls, including both dolls and animals. All the dolls and animals are beautifully made with different fabrics, making them a real luxury product. +44(0)1242 244500 www.orangetreetoys.com

THE SNUGGLEBUNDL The Snugglebundl is a unique blanket wrap with handles and a padded head support that allows parents to lift and lay little ones to asleep. Lift asleep out of car seats, prams, cots or even off the floor. +44(0)1273 958703 www.snugglebundl.co.uk

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Home of

ZO

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CHAMPIONING EXCELLENCE IN CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Consumer & Market Research - From initial concept to final packaging, receive invaluable feedback from your target market and in-depth comparison against competitors, to ensure the best possible product is developed before committing to production.

Good Toy Guide & Good App Guide - With each review outlining key developmental benefits and encompassing quotes from the children and the experts, the consumer-facing Guides have over 25,000 monthly users.

GOOD TOY ZONE

CONSUMER EVENTS

Our flagship Zone at Under 1 Roof Kids play complex allows us to deliver a great experiential marketing opportunity and get your product in the hands of the consumer.

Let the independent experts showcase your product around the country as part of our 2019 Summer Events Programme. We’ll take care of the arrangements, all you have to do is supply the toys!

- 2,000 monthly visitors

- Three major family festivals attended in 2018 - Combined visitor numbers in excess of 35,000 targeted consumers

- Staffed by our dedicated play team who can shout about the benefits of your product - Direct sales opportunities through your chosen retail partner via our innovative ‘Purchase Portal’ - Ideal venue for consumer research sessions and launch events

- Direct sales opportunities through your chosen retail partner via our innovative Purchase Portal

www.FundamentallyChildrenHQ.com jeremy@fundamentallychildren.com +44 (0)7483 389752 | +44 (0)203 355 3895

00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

ren lly Child amenta , d n ts u n F e v h e rked wit festival n to re “We wo t the summer d il h c spire ou through reat way to in amazing g ith our a w s ls a a w v read it sti family fe tive children to play at o m ” rner. es and book co costum Rubie’s e th in h wit UK Rubies

05/09/2018 18:20

WHAT’S NEW RAVENSBURGER The added technology in the BRIO Smart Tech Engine creates endless combinations of play possibilities.

Children will discover new adventures unfold with unique sounds, lights and motion functions. Use with the new Smart Tech Farm and watch as the passing train interacts with the animals in the barn. +44 (0) 1869 363800 www.ravensburger.com

MOBA The brand behind the award-winning, contemporary Moba Moses Basket, is pleased to launch its Organic Cotton Cellular Blanket in two new colours this Autumn; Blush pink and Mint green. Made from the finest 100% organic cotton cellular material, the luxurious new blankets are light, breathable and cosy for little ones. +44(0) 1323 410470 www.mobauk.com

MOUNTAIN BUGGY The superior functionality of three wheels translates effortlessly from functional all terrain to stylish city streets. Our buggies are engineered for the mountains, designed for the city. +44 (0) 2030 519264 www.mountainbuggy.com

PEG PEREGO Launching at KindJugend is Peg Peregos exciting new Ypsi Stroller and Ypsi Combi, as well as its Primo Viaggio I-Size Car Seat. It will also launch two special editions of the Book 51 Modular System. Both designs feature an adjustable handle bar in hand-sewn eco leather. All of these products will be available for October delivery. + 39-039-60881 www.pegperego.com

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Elegance, Style & Quality www.obabystamford.co.uk

Tall Chest

Toy Box

Single Wardrobe

Cot Top Changer

Shelf

The Stamford tailors a complete range of cots and cot bed sizes to suit all rooms W te hi m

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114cm Space Saver Cot

134cm Mini Cot Bed/Day Bed

155cm Classic Cot Bed

160cm Luxe Cot Bed/Day Bed

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www.obabytrade.co.uk 01652 641491

Obaby - full page - Progressive Preschool - Aug 2018 - Stamford.indd 1 114_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

21/08/2018 10:59 06/09/2018 18:02

WHAT’S NEW BOORI Our new generation of expandable cot beds have been created with innovative technology that ensures a longer lifespan. When the time is right, the Sleigh and Pioneer Expandable can be easily converted into a full-sized single bed, with no need to buy a separate conversion kit as this is included and is easy to store away until needed. +44(0)1635 295671 www.Boori.com

CHICCO Chicco continues to build on its success with a new addition to its award winning side sleeping range Chicco Next2Me Magic. With a host of new features including easy one hand sliding opening panel and improved rocking mechanism, Chicco Next2Me Magic promises to once again set the industry standard for side sleeping cribs. +44(0) 20 89536627 www.chicco.co.uk

PACAPOD Bringing together fashion and function, PacaPod’s latest launches are a beautiful array of travel orientated changing bags designed for the modern day parent.

Each bag contains PacaPod’s multi award winning three-in-one organisation system, allowing parents to plan, pack and find essentials in a flash when on the go. +44(0)1271322834 www.pacapod.com

SKIP HOP New from innovative lifestyle brand Skip Hop comes the ultimate activity play centre for baby. The stylish Silver Lining Cloud Baby’s View 3-Stage Activity Centre grows with your little one from the age of four months. The perfect addition to the ‘must-haves made better’ you can expect from the company. +44(0)1582 434250 www.skiphop.com

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Only Casdon makes role play THIS realistic!

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687 Dyson Cord-free Vacuum

Working suction!

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Casdon Ltd., Cornford Road, Blackpool, Lancs FY4 4QW Tel: +44 (0)1253 766411 Fax: +44 (0)1253 691486 Email: toys@casdon.co.uk www.casdon.com

Order NOW! 116_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

06/09/2018 16:26

PreschoolNews Advert 165 x 245_Layout 1 04/01/2018 16:20 Page 1

@Prog_Preschool @Prog_Preschool

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PreschoolNews.net is the new online PreschoolNews.net thepreschool new online resource foristhe product and retail resource forsector. the preschool product and From the publishers ofretail Progressive sector. FromPreschool the publishers of Progressive Magazine and the organisers of Preschool Magazine and the organisers of this the Progressive Preschool Awards, the Progressive Preschool Awards, this new website and e-newsflash portal will new website and e-newsflash portal will views, and provide the very latest news, provide theanalysis very latest news, views, and across the preschool product analysis across preschool andthe retail sector. product and retail sector.

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A modern, easy to navigate organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this A modern, easy to navigate website will provide a central website and e-newsflash portal provides the very latest website willresource provide for a central the trade too, offering news, views, and analysis across the preschool product resource fornews, the trade too, offering in-depth articles,and an industry retail sector. news, in-depth an industry jobsarticles, board, retail analysis, digital issues of jobs board, Progressive retail analysis, digital issues of With an unrivalled base of 12,087 Preschool, and much much email more.subscriber All advertising on the website is Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

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ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL: EDITORIAL AND CONTENT: ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL: EDITORIAL AND CONTENT: Jo Pilcher jop@max-publishing.co.uk Jacqui Parr jacquip@max-publishing.co.uk Jo Pilcher jop@max-publishing.co.uk Jacqui Parr jacquip@max-publishing.co.uk Sam Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL AND CONTENT SamEDITORIAL Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk John Barry johnb@max-publishing.co.uk RobPreschoolnews.net Willis robw@max-publishing.co.ukis

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117_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

06/09/2018 18:03

Publishing for a new generation © © © ©

2018 2018 2018 2018

Disney Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. © 2018 Disney/Pixar. All rights reserved. © 2018 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. © MGA Entertainment, Inc. L.O.L. SURPRISE! © 2018 MARVEL. All rights reserved.

The LEGO Group. © 2018 MARVEL. © 2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2018 Disney. © 2018 Nickelodeon.

00_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

+44 (0)1626 337736 books@centumbooksltd.co.uk

04/09/2018 13:02

WHAT’S NEW CHICCO Chicco will be showcasing its updated range of bestselling highchairs, including new colourways for the Polly Easy and new features for the Polly Magic Relax. +44(0) 20 89536627 www.chicco.co.uk

PRINCE LIONHEART Prince Lionheart’s say its new and innovative TUBIMAL is the hands down cutest tub ever. It also doubles as a storage bin for later use. Complete with an infant hammock for bathing baby and a lid for use as a storage bin and when the time comes, the Tubimal is multi-Purpose for multi-Years: Stage 1 Baby Bath, Stage 2 Toddler Bath & Stage 3 Storage Bin. Perfect baby shower gift to be filled with other Prince Lionheart baby essentials! +44(0)2089977054 Hall 11.2 Stand G018

HIPPYCHICK Hippychick are delighted to welcome RaZbaby to their expanding range of pacifiers and teethers. Say goodbye to throwing away a pacifier after it’s been dropped on the floor, and say hello to RaZbaby’s Keepit-Kleen Pacifier, the only pacifier that automatically closes when it hits the ground. +44(0)128434440 www.Hippychick.com

BESAFE The new BeSafe iZi FLEX FIX Highback Booster remains the world’s first iSize approved seat in its class, resulting in BeSafe being the only brand to offer an iSize approved seat from birth-to-12years. +44(0)1606 814638 www.carseat.co.uk

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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PP May Ad 2018.indd 1 119_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

30/04/2018 15:38:21 06/09/2018 18:22

WHAT’S

HOT?

Progressive Preschool spoke to a number of independent retailers, to find out what’s been selling well across the preschool market.

Josie Audibert, marketing manager, Natural Baby Shower, Bagshot

Independent retailer selling organic and eco-friendly baby products, clothes, bedding, toys and toiletries.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Strollers

BABYZEN YOYO+ 6+ Stroller

This is a firm favourite with our customers, it takes the bestseller spot month after month. It's super compact and perfect for city living.

Essentials

Merino Kids Go Go Baby Sleeping Bag

This range sells well for us all year round thanks to the temperature regulating properties of Merino wool, as baby is kept cool in these warm summer months yet snug through winter.

Carriers

Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier

This carrier is perfect for this warm weather, the breathable mesh allows air to circulate plus it’s suitable from birth and offers four hip-healthy carrying positions - a big tick from our customers

Accessories

Babiators Original Navigator

Babiators is such a popular brand... While they look super cool, they also offer 100% UV protection and are virtually indestructible.

BABYZEN YOYO+ 6+ Stroller

Babiators Original Navigator

Lee Bolastero, store owner, Kids Stuff, Wells An independent toy shop in Wells, Somerset.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Wooden Toys

Hippychick

Quite a bit at the moment, it seems to be on trend. Jumini is working really well for us, as is Classic World from Hippychick.

Soft Toys

TY

TY is a consistent best seller, probably Attick Treasures followed by Beanie Boos at the most popular at this current time. We have just re-stocked ready for summer trading.

Traditional Toys

Travel Games

Wow Toys

Orchard Toys

Just wonderful as ever two bays floor to ceiling, some of the new packaging, I actually preferred the red packaging as it’s more of a statement. But either way it’s a staple for us.

Hippychick

TY

Wow Toys

We are doing really well with travel games from Orchard Toys – they have been phenominal actually. We have 3 bays all stocked floor to ceiling.

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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SOME OF OUR MUCH LOVED LICENSES INCLUDE....

BABYWEAR

NIGHTWEAR

TIGHTS

UNDERWEAR

GIFTING

SOCKS

90’s

“Delivering innovation, quality and value on time....every time.”

For license enquires contact: Faye Rashad Email: faye@misirli.co.uk T: +44(0) 116 2645 860

122_PPS_Sept Oct 2018.indd 1

@MisirliUKLtd

www.misirli.co.uk

06/09/2018 17:59

WH AT’S H OT

Jason Heller, owner, Huggle

A boutique nursery shop in leafy North London.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Car Seats

Cybex

Cybex is our strong partner on car seats at the moment, we’re selling lots of Group 0 and Group 1. The new solutions Z Fix is really fantastic.

Feeding

KidsMe

Feeding product is consistently good, there’s some great product to offer consumers such as the Icy Moo which is an awesome product from KidsMe.

Travel Systems

BabyZen YoYo

A lot more compact, seems to be the trend at the moment - with BabyZen YoYo working really well. The Upper Baby Minu launched last week and is working really well for us..

Travel

Stooke

The Jet Kids bed box (bought by Stooke last month) is selling really well – we’ve been stocking this for over a year now.

Carriers

Ergo

The Ergo Carrier continues to sell well for us.

KidsMe

Furniture

Oliver Furniture

A lot of furniture sales – Oliver Furniture from Denmark is upmarket and great.

Leander’s linear range is very strong, as is Stokke on furniture. New range from Gaia Design is pretty awesome too. We are doing great work with Clever Clogs trading who are representing some great brands.

Stooke

Cybex

Andy Noon, ceo, Poppets, Hove

Popular independent retailer offering a hand-picked selection of traditional toys and gifts.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Ride-ons

Bigjigs Sit & ride Bunny Ride On

This simple sturdy and charming threein-one design is a favourite for young adventurers!

Wooden Toys

Brio Railway Starter Set

This classic brand still has its finger on the pulse. The product is really popular instore and online as it mixes high-end quality and durability with an affordable price tag.

Plush Toys

Jellycat Amuseables

Jellycat have nailed it with the new Amuseables range of funky fruity melons cactuses and mushroom bags cushions and bag charms.

Games/ Puzzles

Orchard Toys Cheeky Monkeys

Great fun easy to pick up quick to learn and fun to play. Orchard Toys games are a go-to present for pre schoolers and toddlers.

Bigjigs Sit & Ride – Bunny Ride On

Orchard Toys Cheeky Monkeys

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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www.orangetreetoys.com email sales@orangetreetoys.com call +44 (0)1242 244500

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