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‘Sustainability must remain high on the agenda’
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enior executives from across the publishing, toy and apparel categories have shared why it’s vital that the issue of sustainability remains on the agenda for the preschool business. Executives from Mattel, Keel Toys, Redan Publishing and TDP Textiles told PPS that momentum must continue to drive positive change in the preschool sector, despite several other major challenges facing the industry. “Pre-pandemic, sustainability initiatives were widely discussed within the industry, yet there is risk now that other factors such as the economic pressures created because of lockdowns could challenge the focus and commitment of us all to sustainability,” said
Lorraine Westbury, director of corporate social responsibility at TDP Textiles. “Conversations surrounding sustainability and the related issues have been on the rise throughout the pandemic amongst shoppers. “I strongly believe there is a substantial increase in the number of discerning shoppers with a moral conscience who now question their purchases - the sensible approach is, therefore, to continue to drive initiatives to ensure successful and sustainable businesses post-pandemic.” Pamela Gill-Alabaster, global head of sustainability at Mattel, believes that focusing on sustainability – from waste management to carbon emissions and energy generations – is “critical”, while Julie Jones, md of
Redan Publishing, said that “we all have a responsibility to protect the planet for future generations”. Julie continued: “Not only that, consumers have a big voice and we need to listen.” Steve Cox, UK sales director at Keel Toys, also pointed out that with retail back open the company is seeing many retailers which are looking to introduce eco alternatives. “Don’t wait for big changes as every small step taken towards sustainability will make a difference,” he said. Read more from Pamela, Steve, Julie and Lorraine (clockwise from top left) in a special industry roundtable on pages 18-21
Cybex launches new sport collection Global baby brand, Cybex has introduced a new collection of sports products, inspired by former professional athlete and founder, Martin Pos. The award-winning collection features the Cybex Zeno – a 4-in-1 running, cycling and cross-country skiing, multisport stroller - and the Cybex Avo – a lightweight running machine. Zeno (£739.90) is suitable for children from six months to four years and can be used with the hands
free technology, or choose to use the push mode. Meanwhile the Avi (£499.90) features a light aluminium frame, air filled tyres and rear suspension to provide a smooth run. It has one hand steering and reflective details. Martin Pos, founder of Cybex, commented: “As a team of former athletes and parents, we were excited to develop a series of products that would inspire active parents to be free for their sporting activities, resulting in healthier, happier lives for the entire family. “The debut styles in the Sport collection are just the beginning of an expansive category for us, with much more to come.” Zeno and Avi are both available in five colourways: silver pink, bleached sand, medal grey, maliblue and all black. The frames come in a choice of black/pink, crème/orange and black/ black. Left: The Cybex sport collection has been designed with active parents in mind.
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