SECTOR FOCUS Inset: Splash About has a comprehensive range of swim nappies, swim pants and UV sunsuits.
THAT
SUMMER FEELING
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t’s been a long time coming for those suppliers in the preschool travel arena, and retailers which ordinarily enjoy a spike in sales ahead of holiday season, but it seems that with Covid travel restrictions easing worldwide, and consumer confidence returning, this summer is likely to see the big getaway for families return. Jet2 recently added thousands of new flights for summer 2022 to destinations including the Canaries, Turkey, Spain and Portugal. Ceo of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Steve Heapy, commented: “This return to normal has led to customer confidence bouncing back strongly, with holidaymakers jumping at the chance to get away. “As such, we are seeing enormous growth for all seasons, with summer 22 proving to be one of the most popular times for a holiday.” Meanwhile, American Airlines expects to return to profit in early summer, having made a net loss of $1.6 billion for the three months to 31 March. The airline said: “Demand for international travel has also picked up considerably as travel restrictions have been lifted in certain parts of the world.” Staycations are also still proving very popular, despite international travel being back on the cards. Skyes Holiday Cottages has shown in its Holiday Let Outlook report 2022, that 84%
of holiday let owners say bookings for 2022 are stronger than ever. For preschool suppliers and retailers, this return to summer holidays provides a welcome sales opportunity. Isabella King, brand development manager at Ideas International, comments: “Finally we can see light at the end of the tunnel, with an influx of family holidays looking like they will indeed go ahead. The airlines have opened travel routes again and not forgetting Gatwick south terminal has reopened. “We’re looking forward to seeing the Traveller being used (and
The summer family holiday looks like it’s back on after two years of staycations, or staying home. With airlines adding extra flights, and insurance companies reporting huge increases in policies being taken out, it seems that the soaring cost of living is not putting consumers off booking holidays. So it’s time to get stocked up with those holiday essentials early. purchased) on all its adventures to commemorate a new beginning. It’s not only great for us as a company specifically within the travel industry but will be so lovely for families to experience further out than they have been able to the last few years.”
HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS It’s time to get that stock ordered to meet the demand for holiday goers, and make the most of this increase in family travel. 1. Cabin-friendly wheeled cases 2. Swim nappies, swim pants and sunsuits 3. Travel cots 4. Travel high chairs/ booster seats 5. Lightweight strollers 6. Portable sleep aids 7. Buggy sunshades, parasols 8. Headphones 9. Lightweight/collapsible/ travel sized toys and games 10. Spill proof sippy cups and snack pots 11. Portable potties
Above: Lightweight strollers such as this one from Didofy are an essential for holidays with little ones. Below: The Little Tikes Traveller from Ideas International is ideal for both staycations and holidays abroad.
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