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RETAILER TRENDS
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Inset: Little Bubbas has seen a steady increase in footfall since Christmas. Below: Having the space to offer a good range of price points and lifestyle options is a challenge for Little Bubbas.
Retail has been one of the hardest hit during the economic crisis. Not only has it faced inflation and increasing product prices, shops and websites have been hit by rising bills, while having to fight for consumer spend. PPS finds out how the situation really is from some key preschool indies. Below: Whites Farm Baby Barn has seen consumers paying more attention to what items they consider essential recently.
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lthough car seats and pushchairs have remained resilient during the cost-ofliving crisis, indie retailers have certainly experienced adversity. Toby Gavin, cmo at Online4Baby explains: “Challenges have included increasing freight costs, exchange rate fluctuations, and uncertain market conditions. In addition, we have had to contend with the cost-of-living pressures that have affected many consumers. To add to our challenges, we have been experiencing higher digital advertising costs and have seen competitors be more aggressive with promotions.” Although many are now finding pressures are easing. Katie Warne, owner of Little Bubba tells PPS: “Nobody could have
PROGRESSIVE PRESCHOOL
predicted the increase in cost-of-living affecting families and it’s definitely changing shopping habits. Recently signs have been good though. I’ve been surprised at how busy I’ve been since Christmas.” Many have had to diversify to meet needs. Kerry Haynes, owner of Cloud 9 Baby Boutique says: “We have opened up our range to include more mid-price prams and car seats, which there wasn’t demand for last year. We are seeing more customers asking for a lower price band when it comes to the big purchases. We are offering split payments for customers, which is definitely helping.” Indie retailers are running into a range of challenges. Sara Hubbard, owner of Whites Farm Baby Barn, comments: “We still run into issues with customers wanting premium level quality pushchairs, for entry level price points. A lot of people see these items as ‘just baby
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