Progressive Preschool January/February 2017

The B2B Publication For Preschool Products and Retailers

ISSUE 27 JAN/FEB 2017

Show Time

Toy Fair, Spielwarenmesse, Spring Fair

You’re Fired

But It’s Good News For Frances

Brand Values

Preschool’s 2017 Licensing Slate

Apparel Action

INDX AW17 Show

Stroll With It

Pushchair Picks For 2017

Trade Publication. Sign up to our newsletter at www.progressive-preschool.com and follow us on Twitter at @prog_preschool

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well-curated smartly designed essentials for parents, babies and toddlers

See our full range of product at London Toy Fair 24 – 26th January. Stand B135.

Contact our UK office to book an appointment at the show.

Email: ukoffice@skiphop.com | Tel: 01582 434250

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www.progressive-preschool.com MARKET LEADING TRADE MAGAZINES

March/April 2013

MARKET LEADING TRADE EXHIBITIONS

MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

this month JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2017

Traditionally, entering a new year is seen as a time full of both promise and potential as companies and individuals look forward to making exciting changes over the coming 12 months. But things look a little more uncertain for 2017 - and who knows what surprises the coming year might Above: Progressive Preschool’s hold in store for the preschool industry.

Jo, Rob and Jacqui.

At the time of writing we are currently less than a week into the new year, and we’ve already had to absorb a real mixed bag of news that will undoubtedly affect retailing for the foreseeable future. Perhaps most significantly, suppliers and retailers are announcing price rises of anything between 5 and 10% - attributed primarily to the uncertainty surrounding the UK’s Brexit plans and the increased costs associated with that. Whether or not consumers will willingly absorb those costs is yet to be seen.

The Christmas season just gone has also been challenging for many retailers, as the rise in online shopping saw footfall drop across both high streets and retail parks. This also coincided with cautious consumers looking to save money by shopping around or simply reducing the number of gifts they gave.

However, it was not all bad news, with a number of retailers reporting an upturn in sales volumes when compared to the previous year - people were still buying, even if they were doing it from the comfort of their sofas. For the toy industry, which takes 23% of all its annual sales in the weeks leading up to Christmas, the news was also good, with sales growing by 5% compared to the same period in 2015.

It’s fitting then, that much of this January issue is focused on the future of the toy market, with previews of the London Toy Fair, Spielwarenmesse, the New York Toy Fair and Spring Fair. And there’s an incredible amount to look forward to, with hundreds of new launches and brand developments right across the preschool sector.

There’s also some interesting news to kick off the year in the nursery sector, as Scotland has announced the launch of its Baby Box initiative. Taking the lead from the much-celebrated Finnish programme, the boxes will be given to all families with newborns, starting from this summer. The pilot scheme has already started, with new parents receiving around 40 different items, ranging from a play mat and toys, to books and babygros and reusable nappies.

While laudable for its intention to help ensure all children get off to a good start in life, the scheme will also undoubtedly benefit the companies involved, as engaging with newborn parents is seen by many as the Holy Grail of brand loyalty.

There are, of course, certain things that the Baby Boxes won’t be able to include – particularly big-ticket items such as pushchairs and bouncers. Happily we’ve looked at the newest releases for both of those markets in this issue, as well as an overview of the industry behind getting babies to sleep.

For now though, we’re looking forward to spending the next few weeks playing with the newest and most exciting toys and kids products on the market. We’ll see you at the shows!

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

@prog_preschool

Rob Willis, Jacqui Parr, Samantha Loveday, Jo Pilcher, Ian Hyder, Jakki Brown, Warren Lomax

Our editorial wordsmiths include: Sue Marks and Michelle Board.

Progressive Preschool is published by Max Publishing Ltd. Rob Willis - Publishing Director.

Jacqui Parr - Editor. Jo Pilcher - Account Manager. Samantha Loveday, Fiona Pavely, Michelle Board and Sue Marks - Editorial Wordsmiths. Jakki Brown - Editor-in-Chief and Joint Managing Director. Ian Hyder and Warren Lomax - Joint Managing Directors. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax: 020 7607 6411 Email: robw@max-publishing.co.uk, jacquip@max-publishing.co.uk, saml@max-publishing.co.uk Copyright 2012. The publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text.

PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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28 - 30 March 2017 Harrogate International Centre Present your products to British independent retailers and department store buyers

The UK’s ONLY nursery trade show!

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contents 35

PRESCHOOL LICENSING

43

TOY FAIR

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07 19 23 25 27 29 31 35 43 61 69 73 85 97 98 101 105 111 118 Page 1

NEWS Reporting from the preschool sector.

MEDIA WATCH Looking at the brands making headlines.

INDUSTRY ANALYSIS The latest industry numbers from GfK. BIG APPLE New York Toy Fair.

ASK GEORGINA Arming children for travel.

THE PARENT REPORT A full night’s sleep, just one?

THE APPRENTICE Frances Bishop talks preschool retail.

PRESCHOOL LICENSING Full slate for 2017.

TOY FAIR Olympia is full to bursting.

SPIELWARENMESSE Preview to Nuremberg 2017.

PICCOLA PPS Awards winner reflects on 50 years.

SPRING FAIR Preview to February’s super-show.

STROLLERS First quarter releases: sector update.

CATHY’S COLUMN Are we retailing clearly?

HIPPYCHICK Interview: Sharing in success.

INDX Don’t miss AW17 in February.

WALKERS AND BOUNCERS Product update.

FORTY WINKS Product update: infant sleep.

BEST SELLERS Retailers best sellers and big hits.

PR GLOBAL Understanding your brand, communicating your message • Consumer Media Relations • Corporate and Trade Media Relations • Digital and Social Media PR • Celebrity Seeding • Internal Communications • Crisis Management • Publishing and Copywriting • Event Management

www.miprglobal.co.uk +44 (0) 1494 372 130

info@miprglobal.co.uk

Twitter: @miprglobal

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16175 Toy & Gift ad Progressive Preschool.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2016 15:57 Page 1

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oy t t n en ers e d il p O pen eta e ft r d in gi & to

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&gift Independent Toy & Gift Show

Tuesday 4th & Wednesday 5th April 2017 Cranmore Park, Solihull, B90 4LF Register at: www.independenttoyandgift.co.uk @IndieToysGifts

Free Parking • Free Admission • Free Refreshments Hosted by play-room, the toy division of AIS Ltd.

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NEWS

PPS TAKES A LOOK AT THE RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE PRESCHOOL WORLD

TOP STORY

Christmas 2016 Retail Report

C

hristmas 2016 was a challenging seasonal period for many UK retailers.

The rise in online shopping and cautious shoppers looking to save money have both been blamed for tough Christmas trading, with high street retailers including Next (-0.4%) and M&S (-5.8%) reporting a disappointing drop in sales across the board. Bucking the trend is discount retail chain B&M, which has revealed a bumper Christmas trading period, with sales rising by 7.2%.

The increase in store footfall in the run-up to Christmas was slow and the last-minute rush to the shops not as intense as many would have hoped for.

According to the UK Retail Traffic Index figures published by Ipsos Retail, footfall was down by more than 13% year-on-year over the first three weeks of the month, forcing many retailers to go to sale early.

The push of last-minute Christmas shoppers did see footfall rise in December, although not to the levels seen in 2015.

Although last-minute footfall was down by up to 7.4% year-on-year, Christmas

Top Toys

The NPD Group has unveiled the UK toy market’s best-selling toys from the first half of the Christmas period (to 10 December). According to the group’s retail sales data, toy sales grew by 5%, compared to the same period last year.

The top ten includes a mix of traditional and high-tech toys at a broad range of prices, from £13 to £124. Spin Master’s PAW Patrol Vehicle and Pup was the stand-out preschool toy in the list.

Almost 23% of all annual toy sales are recorded during the Christmas period, with an average of £105 spent per child.

Below: Best-selling toy, Spin Master’s PAW Patrol Vehicle and Pup.

Eve itself was almost 3% busier than in 2015, making up some of that shortfall.

“Over recent years, the traditional surge to the shops has lessened as online has become increasingly important for gift buying,” said Dr Tim Denison, director of retail intelligence. “This year it struck me that those who took to the high streets over the last few days have rediscovered the joys of Christmas shopping.”

However, according to the CBI’s monthly Distributive Trades Survey, retail sales growth accelerated in the year to December, with the volume

The festive break didn’t get much better after the big day either. Boxing Day sales saw a sharp decline this year, as the latest figures from retail data firm Springboard found that footfall across the UK was down by 7.3% on Boxing Day, historically a key date for retailers.

Shopping centres fared the worst, with an almost 20% drop in footfall, while high streets and retail parks dropped by 2.2% and 4.2% respectively (compared to 2015). The low figures are attributed to Brexit fears and the popularity of online shopping.

of retail sales in the crucial run-up to Christmas rising at the fastest pace since September 2015. Some 51% of retailers reported an upturn in sales volumes in the period, when compared with 2015.

“It’s encouraging to see retailers reporting another month of healthy sales growth leading up to the festive season, which rounds off a fairly solid quarter,” said Ben Jones, CBI’s principal economist.

The Entertainer Adds Good Toy Guide Stamp

Toy retailer The Entertainer has teamed up with independent play experts Fundamentally Children to display the independent accreditation stamp across its website, www.TheToyShop.com.

All products which have been tested and endorsed by the Good Toy Guide will now carry the ‘as featured in Good Toy Guide’ logo as part of their online listing.

“Working with Fundamentally Children and the Good Toy Guide enables us to show that many of the toys we have on offer are recommended by independent experts, strengthening our range and Above: The stamp gives featured items an expert, third-party aiding customers when deciding on products,” said accreditation, helping consumers Rebecca Naish, head of marketing and licensing at make informed choices.

The Entertainer.

Products carrying the logo include lines from Playmobil, Hasbro, VTech, Leapfrog, Drumond Park, Casdon, Orchard Toys and others.

Drive Like A Parent Sales Fail To Deliver

Inset: Trading was tough during the Christmas period.

A new campaign from Maxi-Cosi highlighted Road Safety Week at the end of last year, encouraging Britons to #DriveLikeAParent.

The campaign was developed following research which reveals that parents drive more safely after having a child, leading safety experts at Maxi-Cosi to encourage all Britons to ‘drive like a parent’ when they get behind the steering wheel.

Of 1,000 parents surveyed, most admitted to significant improvements in their driving when they had a baby on board.

Jazwares Outlines Chuggington Plans

Jazwares has revealed some of its plans for Chuggington in its role as global master toy licensee for the Ludorum brand.

The range - which will launch at Easter, with a wider roll out later in the year - has been given a full refresh, from the packaging and branding through to the slightly younger target audience, with the trains, track sets and play-sets all designed for children aged between two and four.

“Our aim is to create a solid range which will deliver consistently strong sales throughout 2017,” said Jonny Taylor, Jazwares’ UK md. “We are working with a brand that has built up a decade’s worth of dedicated fan base. The show continues to be a CBeebies flagship brand and audience numbers remain high for every single episode.”

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INDX KIDSWEAR A bespoke trade show AW17

12-13 FEBRUARY 2017 REGISTER ONLINE NOW

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Free Free Free Free

Entry Refreshments Lunch On-Site Parking

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NEWS TOP STORY

Dunelm Acquires Kiddicare

H

omewares and furnishings retailer Dunelm has bought baby and infant goods specialist Kiddicare as part of an £8.5m acquisition of UK online shopping group Worldstores (WS Group) in a bid to boost its online offering.

The news makes Dunelm the latest in a line of new owners for Kiddicare, which was bought by supermarket chain Morrisons for £70m in 2011 before being sold to private equity owners for £2m just three years later. Kiddicare was then bought by Worldstores in 2014, where it joined the group’s portfolio of home and furniture websites.

Worldstores has annual revenue of about £100m, but is expected to report losses of £5m to £10m for 2016. Despite this, Dunelm’s ceo John Browett remains positive about the move, stating: “We are excited by this opportunity to accelerate the growth of our internet operation, more than doubling its size, and enhancing our position as the destination homewares retailer in the UK, both online and offline.”

John continued; “Between the store network, broad product range and strong brand that Dunelm has built and Worldstores’ extensive homewares and furniture offer and unique platform for next day delivery and flash sales,

International Changes At Mothercare Mothercare has appointed Kevin Rusling as its managing director of international, to take over international responsibility from chief executive Mark Newton-James in March. Kevin was most recently Monsoon’s international director and has previously worked at both M&S and George at Asda.

Mothercare’s international division has performed well compared to the UK market, contributing to 60% of Mothercare’s gross sales. International sales increased in the first half of the 2016/2017 financial year, rising by 7.7%.

“I am very much looking forward to working with the global teams to develop the brand further, both instore and online,” said Kevin. “Mothercare has a strong heritage, a clear vision and the potential as we transform the business is hugely exciting.”

Cambridge Toy Shop Calls Time

Following 12 years in business, well respected retailer, The Cambridge Toy Shop has now closed its doors on the high street.

Owner, Vivienne Watson, explained that it was no longer viable to keep trading, citing the negative impact of higher rents and increased parking fees as reasons for the store’s closure.

“A huge thanks to all of our loyal customers who have helped us to keep the last independent toy shop in Cambridge open for so long,” said Vivienne.

Above: The Cambridge Toy Shop was a high street fixture for 12 ‘wonderful’ years.

we will strengthen our leading position as the UK’s home of homes.”

Below: Dunelm says it will be able to improve performance by sharing product ranges, harmonising terms and extending the multichannel delivery proposition.

What’s In A Name?

Nursery Experts Merge

Nursery supplier Angelcare Holdings has acquired international baby product distributor Hardenberg&Co, following a long-term partnership.

First established in 2007, Hardenberg&Co was born when Marc Hardenberg and Julie Ebrey were given an Angelcare monitor for their son. Since then, the pair have built and established a solid business in the UK, distributing leading baby products – including Angelcare – to major retailers, trading on their vast knowledge and experience within the baby sector.

“We are extremely excited about this great opportunity,” said managing director Julie, “as it ensures a closeness and collaboration with Angelcare that was never possible for us as a distributor. The new set-up means we can really influence, at the heart, the products that our mums and dads demand from Angelcare.”

Popular parenting website www. babycentre.co.uk has released its official top 100 baby names of 2016, from a survey of more than 70,000 parents.

Olivia has retained the top spot for girls’ names, while Oliver has overtaken Muhammad to be the top boys’ name throughout the year.

BabyCentre’s baby name survey includes the names chosen by 76,993 members who gave birth in 2016 – to 41,158 boys and 35,775 girls, in total.

“Luna is one of the highest new entries and with 2016 being all about Major Tim Peake’s epic space adventure, Star Wars and super moons, it’s no wonder names like this have seen a rise,” said Sarah Redshaw, managing editor of BabyCentre.

Space themes, superheroes and celebrities have all influenced new entries to the baby names list this year.

The top 10 ’names are: Boys Girls 1. Olivia 1. Oliver 2. Lily 2. Muhammed 3. Sophia 3. Noah 4. Emily 4. Harry 5. Amelia 5. Jack 6. Ava 6. Charlie 7. Isla 7. Jacob 8. Isabella 8. George 9. Isabelle 9. Ethan 10. Sophie 10. Henry

Le Toy Van Teams Up With Pampers One year after making a significant push into the toddler market with Petilou, its newest collection of wooden toys, Le Toy Van has teamed up with infant experts Pampers as part of an ongoing promotional partnership.

The Pampers Club Reward programme offers parents the chance to earn points which they can then spend on rewards – including a number of popular lines from the Petilou range.

To date, Le Toy Van has launched a total of 28 lines under the Petilou toddler umbrella, all beautifully made and focusing on very young children’s development through play.

Above: The partnership promotes Le Toy Van’s new infant range.

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EXCITING THINGS COMING FOR 2017

ANIMAL JAM © 2017 WildWorks, Inc. All rights reserved. Despicable Me 3 2017 © Universal Studios. © 2016 All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Shimmer and Shine and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Blaze © 2014 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Blaze and the Monster Machines and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. ©2014 Moose Enterprise (INT) Pty Ltd. Shopkins Shoppies™ and Shoppies™ logos, names and characters are licensed trademarks of Moose Enterprise (INT) Pty Ltd. Angry Birds Hatchlings and Piggy Takes © 2017 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group Inc. © 2016 Rovio Entertainment Ltd. MR. POTATO HEAD and MRS. POTATO HEAD are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2017 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro. HASBRO and its logo and PLAY-DOH are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2017 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

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NEWS TOP STORY

Mothercare Warns Of Price Rises

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aby and infant retailer Mothercare has warned that it may have to increase prices by up to 5% this year following the 2016 sterling slump.

Chief executive Mark Newton-Jones said that he expected to raise shop prices by between 3% and 5% as a result of higher import costs. Around half of the brand’s UK lines are sourced in non-sterling currencies, and as such will now be more expensive.

“After the vote to leave the European Union, the dollar was up by around 18%,” Mark said. “We came to an agreement with our suppliers and managed to mitigate against around a third of that increase. We’ll take some of the rest

through costs, but the bulk of the difference will go to customers.”

He added that the business would not be increasing prices before May, as it has already locked in prices through hedging and so is protected until then.

In its Q3 trading report, Mothercare reported a dip in UK year-on-year sales, which fell by 2.3% to £231.2m in the 28 weeks to 8 October. UK like-for-like sales also fell, by 0.7%.

Despite this, Mothercare claimed its turnaround remains on track, attributing the ‘challenging’ six-month period to unseasonable weather and disruptions at its warehouse. Overseas and online performed better, with international sales up 3.7% and internet and

Little Milestones, Big Memories

Summer Infant is going into 2017 with an increased focus on building brand awareness thanks to the ‘Little Milestones, Big Memories’ campaign.

A three-month digital marketing campaign with Emma’s Diary begins at the end of January, with a full package of activity including a homepage takeover, sponsored articles, targeted advertising, competitions and inclusion in the newsletter and across social media.

“We are really excited about our marketing plans for 2017 – we’ve worked hard to create more synergy between our consumer and retailer marketing activities and are confident this approach will pay off,” said Hashim Yilmaz, general manager.

A further series of brand campaigns throughout the year will focus on core categories and products, all supported with targeted media activity.

Toy Trust Gives The Gift Of Play

Following a successful 2016, the Toy Trust has announced that it will continue with its successful Give the Gift of Play campaign in 2017.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Toy Trust and the charitable foundation shows no signs of slowing down and will once again raise funds for every children’s hospice in the UK. “It can be difficult to comprehend just how much of a difference play and play-therapy can make to a child when they are going through difficult times,” said Foye Pascoe, chair of the Toy Trust Committee. “It is a vital part of [the children’s] social wellbeing and... seems especially fitting that we can help in this way.”

The main fundraiser for 2017 has been confirmed as the Big Cotswolds Challenge, taking place on Saturday 6 May at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire.

Other activities and initiatives will be announced soon.

VTech/LeapFrog Merger Provisionally Cleared VTech’s acquisition of LeapFrog looks one step closer to completion, after the UK Competition and Markets Authority provisionally gave it clearance.

According to a statement, the CMA found that the merger ‘may not be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the supply of learning toys for 0-5 year old children’s tablets and content or future innovation in toys’.

The CMA published the provisional findings on its website. The final

decision will be made after collecting views on the provisional findings and assessing all evidence.

“I am very pleased that the CMA has provisionally cleared this merger,” said Allan Wong, chairman and group ceo of VTech Holdings. “We have always believed that the combination of VTech and LeapFrog will give consumers greater choice and ensure ongoing innovation of electronic learning toys.”

VTech will continue to work closely with the CMA through the remainder of its merger enquiry.

mobile business up by 6.9% and now representing 40% of the total business.

The company is currently in the second year of a turnaround plan that has seen it refurbish more than 90 of its UK stores, close others and upgrade its online presence.

Above: Mothercare has guaranteed prices will not rise before May 2017.

LICENSING LOWDOWN ▶ The newest partner to join Thomas & Friends’ extensive consumer products portfolio is Trends UK, which will be launching a range of electronic learning aids from summer 2017. ▶ Rainbow Designs is launching two new Miffy collections – a classic plush format as well as a brand new Miffy Baby nursery collection, set to hit retail in autumn 2017. ▶ Poster company Pyramid International has signed the licences to developed ranges for a number of core preschool properties, including PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig and My Little Pony. ▶ As part of an ongoing initiative, Aurora World launched a We’re Going on a Bear Hunt plush range in support of C4’s successful adaptation of the popular kids’ literary property.

Comic Cool

Golden Bear has announced a partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, on behalf of DC Entertainment, to launch a range of DC Super Friends products for 2017 and beyond.

Appealing to younger DC fans, the DC Super Friends include a number of iconic comic characters. Batman will be the first to be featured on Golden Bear product as part of the ‘Sleep Tight All Night’ plush sleep aid collection, launching a/w 2017.

Other DC Super Friends ranges will include feature plush, an interactive playmat and fun ‘slingable’ plush collectables, reflecting the play patterns of the preschool DC brand.

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Be the first to see our latest

3IN1 TOY

687 Dyson Cord-free We’re proud to be unveiling our latest, brilliant replica toy of the Dyson Cord-free. With working suction and cyclone action, there are also easy-release attachments to convert it from the short nozzle to a long-handled twist & turn movement or for long nozzle ‘cleaning’.

So, it’s a 3-in-1 toy that ensures that ‘pretend play’ is just like the real thing!

Inventors of Fun & Play!

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UK Toy Fair – Tues 24th Jan – Thurs 26th Jan: Stand E30

SEE US Nurnberg Toy Fair – Weds 1st Feb – Fri 6th Feb: Hall 12, Stand C-04 AT New York Toy Fair – Weds 18th Feb – Sat 21st Feb: Booth 1075

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Just like the real thing!

24/12/2016 17:07

TOP STORY

Netmums Overhaul Helps Brands

P

arenting website Netmums has undergone a major overhaul, ramping up its content marketing offering following a major piece of research which has helped brands to better identify and target their ideal audience.

The mobile-first design was created following research into the behaviour of 5,000 users, finding that 74% now accessed the site via a smartphone (up 20% in two years).

The website also identified four ‘mum types’ which it is encouraging brand marketers to acknowledge as they tap into each demographic. These have

been dubbed Digital Villagers (the most prolific and likely to engage with content on social), Visual Curators (prefers visual content to text), Life Hack Mums (wants easy to digest content that helps solve

Left: Brands looking to generate engagement beyond click-through rates can use this research to help develop online campaigns.

Baby Trade Focuses On 2017 With Christmas now firmly behind us, the nursery and preschool industry is now focusing on its most significant event of 2017 – Harrogate International Nursery Fair, the UK’s only nursery trade event.

Regular exhibitors in the pushchair and stroller category include favourites such as BabyStyle, Hauck, O’Baby, East Coast, Thule and Little Saints to name just a few.

Offering a host of popular brands include

distributors such as Hippychick, Little Saints, Skip Hop, Maguari and of course Cheeky Rascals which will once again be sponsoring the café area in Hall B. There are also a number of new companies signing up for next year, offering retailers a range of exciting new products.

“We are delighted to welcome so many new exhibitors to the show next

and only baby show to be serving the Scottish baby market and will continue to offer new and expectant parents the opportunity to enjoy brilliant shopping for both baby and mum, while also sharing advice and information from from leading parenting experts.

Harrods’ Toy Shopping Service Knightsbridge-based luxury department store Harrods launched a bespoke Toy Concierge Service in the run-up to the busy Christmas shopping season, with a dedicated team providing customers with expert product knowledge and recommendations on the latest toy trends.

The ongoing service includes a preconsultation by telephone. Customers are then able to discuss the child’s age, favourite television characters, interests

and hobbies with a concierge team member — who then pull together a list of potential items to view in store.

These recommendations are then mapped against ‘age and stage’ development for children of all ages, helping customers invest in age- and ability-appropriate toys that will be played with and cherished.

Customers can also have their chosen items giftwrapped and delivered straight to their door.

Eh-Oh Barnardo’s!

Big Toddle. This is the largest annual fundraising event for under five year olds, which is also celebrating its 20th birthday.

“We’re delighted to announce our new partnership with Teletubbies next year,” said Javed Khan, Barnardo’s chief executive. “2017 is going to be a very exciting year for Barnardo’s and we’re thrilled Teletubbies will be a part of that.”

Children’s charity Barnardo’s is launching a new partnership with the Teletubbies brand, with limited edition merchandise launching in Barnardo’s shops across the UK from April 2017.

The Teletubbies brand – which is marking its 20 year anniversary in 2017 – will also be supporting the Barnardo’s

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year, including a number of international companies offering retailers an even greater choice of products,” said Adrian Sneyd, show organiser. “With so much uncertainty in the economy at the moment, UK retailers and buyers are less likely to travel to international trade shows next year and overseas suppliers realise that they need to be at Harrogate if they want to capture the UK market.”

Visit www.nurseryfair.com for more information.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Baby and Toddler Show Heads North Mercury Events has announced the launch of a Scottish Baby & Toddler Show, which will be taking place at the SECC Glasgow on Friday 5 – Sunday 7 May 2017.

The new show – which has a predicted visitor attendance of over 10,000 – claims to be the first

a problem) and Always On Mums.

“Brands are getting smarter at understanding the different types within the parenting community,” explained Netmums’ managing director Rimi Atwal.

“Where brands sometimes miss an opportunity is where they see a group of mums as one homogenous group – it’s the worst mistake they can make.”

Aviva and Aldi have already begun to make the most of this research in order to shape the advertising campaigns they run with Netmums.

▶ Kindness was sweeping the nation at the end of last year as Coolabi’s #ClangersForKindness saw over 10,000 kindness wishes being made, while the hashtag reached over two million social media users.

D UK has entered a strategic partnership with ▶ K Spanish supplier Educa-Borras. The launch programme will be unveiled at London Toy Fair 2017 and will include the Chicos brand of roleplay, creative play and ride-on toys. ▶ Nursery expert bébélephant has been appointed the official UK and Irish distributor for HushCush nursing pillows. ▶ Carrier company Baby K’tan has expanded into new markets thanks to two new distribution partnerships; Gugy Corporation in Latin America and 2012 Ltd in the EU. ▶ Nursery distributor Maguari has welcomed a new brand to its portfolio – Tipitoe from Loveable Baby Memories, offering quick and easy 3D prints of baby’s feet and hands. ▶ The 7th Dot to Dot children’s fashion and homewares show will see over 60 exhibitors showing their new season collections at The Vinyl Factory in London’s Soho, from 22 – 23 January 2017. ▶ Nursery distributor Ardega has been appointed as the exclusive UK distributor for the stylish Ryco changing bag brand, effective immediately. Product will be available from May 2017.

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TOP STORY

Baby Boxes Come To The UK

A

ll newborn children in Scotland will receive ‘baby boxes’ by the summer following a three-month pilot in Clackmannanshire and Orkney, which started in early January 2017.

The boxes include clothing, bedding and toys and are based on a successful project that has been running in Finland since 1938 and is designed to give all children an equal start. The boxes contain about 40 different items, including a play mat, changing mat, digital thermometer, fleece jacket, several babygrows, hooded bath towel, reusable nappy and liners, baby book and

Tommee Tippee Saves The Day

A desperate search to replace a little blue cup ended after Tommee Tippee announced that it would be stepping in with a free lifetime’s supply of 500 specially-made cups.

The baby brand is to manufacture a new batch of cups exclusively for an autistic boy after a dad’s search went global. Marc Carter launched an appeal for a ‘special little blue cup’ for his 14-year-old son Ben, who will only drink from a specific two-handled sippy cup – and manufacturing of the exact model stopped almost 20 years ago.

organic sponge. The box also contains cot sheets, a mattress and a blanket, making it suitable for a baby to sleep in.

The Scottish government scheme is estimated to cost around £6m per year, and some of the first baby boxes were delivered to mothersto-be by Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre.

“Scotland’s baby box is a strong signal of our determination that every child, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life,” she said. “It’s a simple idea with a proven record in tackling deprivation, improving health and

Above: The Scottish baby boxes will be rolled out over the coming months.

M&S receives The Royal Touch

The latest exclusive infant and childrenswear collaboration comes from retailer Marks & Spencer and Princess MarieChantal of Greece, who is lending her style expertise to the high street stalwart.

The partnership (overseen by TLC) with designer Princess Marie-Chantal (who already has a successful luxury children’s range), sees the retailer launch an exclusive 33-piece collection of clothing, accessories and gifting designed for baby and children.

Described as ‘playful’ and with some pieces available for as little as £6, the new and exclusive collection is available in 37 Marks & Spencer stores in the UK and online, as well as selected international stores and websites.

Above: right The range has been exclusively designed for babies and children up to the age of five.

PEOPLE NEWS

Dear Zoo Turns 35

Classic baby brand Dear Zoo is lining up a year of celebrations as part of the 35th anniversary campaign for Rod Campbell’s much-loved classic lift-the-flap book.

First published in 1982, Dear Zoo has sold over 8 million copies worldwide and is currently published in more than 20 languages.

An exciting programme of anniversary activity, launched Above: Retailers will be invited to join in with a host

by Macmillan Children’s Books, will run throughout 2017 with of Dear Zoo activity. new publishing, an exclusive Dear Zoo Trail at ZSL London Zoo, licensed product ranges and a brand new stage show.

“I really am enormously touched and delighted that successive generations of young children continue to love Dear Zoo,” said author Rod Campbell. “Their obvious pleasure when interacting with it is so gratifying to see, and for me is the very greatest of compliments!”

John Lewis Holds Play Date The team of experts from Fundamentally Children was once again showcasing and demonstrating good toys from the John Lewis range, following the most recent Play Day which took place at the Cambridge branch of John Lewis in early December, 2016.

Throughout the day, the Fundamentally Children team were available to talk to customers and share their unique insight into children’s play, toys and development; helping

supporting parents, and I’m proud and excited that the pilot is now under way.”

The Scottish government said the scheme was also intended to encourage engagement by expectant mothers with maternity and antenatal services.

them make informed buying choices.

Play days are an ideal way to allow children to test the toys before buying and to ensure parents receive expert advice on their purchases, while creating a fun and engaging atmosphere in-store. The last Play Day also resulted in a welcome boost in sales and footfall for the branch.

“We’re delighted to be working with John Lewis again,” said Lucy Moody, head of retail relations at Fundamentally Children. “The play days are a huge success in store.”

▶ A rgos marketing director Stephen Vowles has left the retailer just months after it was acquired by Sainsbury’s. ▶ Preschool specialist Halilit has appointed Holly Ireland to the role of sales account manager. ▶ B ladez Toyz welcomes Sam Mitchell to the team as the company’s new QA and compliance manager. Sam has over a decade of toy industry QA experience. hnuggle has welcomed Sarah ▶ S Sproston, formerly of Bambino Mio and The Gro Company, to the team, as national account manager. ▶ Tech toy firm Leapfrog has expanded its commercial team with the appointment of Gary Hughes as national account manager. ▶ Eduk8 is bolstering its sales team with the appointment of Adrian Leafe as the firm’s new UK and international sales manager. ▶ Toy industry veteran Adrian Roche has announced the launch of his consulting business Black Horse Consulting, specialising in helping international companies gain access to the huge North American market.

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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.

JAN 2017

Baby Bling

Lovely Legs

Fashionable baby brand Joolz has been featured in the Get This! section of a recent issue of The Sunday Express S Magazine, among an eclectic selection of stylish musthaves. The Nest is from the Joolz Essentials line and can be used in the Joolz Day and Joolz Geo pushchairs and car seats.

The luxury baby legging company Blade and Rose featured a number of times in the December issue of Baby London magazine.

Unsurprisingly, Christmas-themed red and white leggings were chosen for a festive Dress The Part feature, while a new Rudolf toy was chosen for a Christmas Day play guide.

Carry On

ODE FOR M

16 ER 20

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The High Life

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WH AT TO TRUTH EXPECT REALLY

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GO H WALK WITRS & DINOSAU

ODE FOR M TH RN MO ERS

childhood and beyond

OCTOB

A feature on Wellbeing in December’s issue of Gurgle magazine emphasised the importance of letting dads get involved to ease some of the seasonal stress and have a calmer Christmas. The Baby Bjorn Carrier One was highlighted as being an essential bit of kit for parents taking baby out of the house for a few hours!

PR EG NA

THE NA KE D

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Safety is covered first and foremost: the patented headrest stops your child’s head rolling forward and protects them from side-on impact.

An automatic height and width adjustment system means the seat grows with your child and in-built air ventilation keeps them cool in summer and warm in winter. Our judges loved the grey version but it comes in a range of colourways to suit your style. cybex-online.com H I G H LY C O M M E N D E D : MAXI COSI AXISS

HIGHCHAIR : ICANDY MICHAIR

INFANT CARRIER : STOKKE MYCARRIER

carry on A tailor-made carrier scores a second win for STOKKE The trend for babycarrying shows no sign of slowing down.

when you’re carrying your baby out and about, you might want something sturdier. Enter the Stokke MyCarrier, a feat of engineering that makes the experience as comfortable for you as it is for them. The frame is ergonomically designed so that your baby rests in the perfect spot and their weight is evenly distributed, whether you have them on your back or your chest. Baby, meanwhile, is safely cocooned in soft, padded cotton and you can let them face you or look out at the world. The best feature is undoubtedly the adjustable straps – they can be tweaked until the carrier is perfectly tailored to you. stokke.com

the high life ICANDY highchair stands tall Our judges were looking for innovation teamed with stylish design and in the iCandy MiChair, they got both. Every detail of this is designed with modern family life in mind, from the easy-to-clean surfaces to the intuitive height adjustment controls and the high-shine chrome legs. It earnt extra plaudits

be used to the age of six. icandyworld.com

A feature in the October issue of cutting-edge parenting magazine Smallish highlighted products from the nursery word which teamed innovation with stylish design. The iCandy MiChair was named as a stand-out product which also earnt extra plaudits for flexibility as it can be used until the age of six.

H I G H LY C O M M E N D E D : S T O K K E T R I P P T R A P P

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MEDI A WATCH

SMART TRAVELLER // INSTYLE

IN STYLE

Kit & kaboodle From fleecy wellies, to beautifully lined buggy snuggs and a mini blanket, we’ve got you covered

WILD SCRAPBOOK

Build your own nature diary, pre-packed with fun facts and activities, illustrated with quirky images of beasties and bugs. RRP: £12.95. laurenceking.com

BUGGY COS Y

Put some bling in your buggy. The fi nish on this snug sleeper allows good circulation, is fast-drying and water/dirt repellent. RRP: £92.25. scandimini.co.uk

X- R AY S N O W S U I T

Wind and waterproof: this snowsuit will keep ‘dem bones warm and dry, with a removable hood and storm flaps at legs/ wrists. RRP: €169.95 (£146). molo.com

MINI POCKET BLANKET

For festival, beach or aeroplane, a water-resistant, featherweight (37g) outdoor blanket, so compact it fits on a keychain. RRP: £20.00. bearandbear.com

CHILD CARRIER

The built-in rain/sun cover, and mesh back system, makes the new Osprey Poco AG Plus a comfy way to backpack that baby. RRP: £250. milletsports.co.uk

PA C A P O D T O T E

A lightweight tote made with durable, waterproof microfibre that packs down neatly, its egg-shape allowing max loading. RRP: £19.95. pacapod.com

BOGS B-MOC PUFF

A welly ready for all-weather adventure, 100% waterproof with an odourfighting, wicking liner to keep toes dry.

RRP: $60 (£48). bogsfootwear.co.uk

Family 2017

11

Fill It Up Making waves away from the parenting press is the Pacapod tote, which was featured in The National Geographic Traveller family special. Highlighted in a feature on clever outdoors kit, the bag was recommended for its durable, waterproof microfibre material and clever eggshape which allows maximum loading.

Clever Kit The December issue of Mother & Baby magazine featured Infantino’s Slumber Whale in its That’s Clever feature.

Described as ideal for easing little ones back into their bedtime routines after all the holiday disruption, the adjustable lullabies and nature sounds are highlighted as being adaptable for all babies needs.

JAN 2017

Who’s Who?

The PR companies, distributors and suppliers featured in this issue of Media Watch are: Chase PR (Joolz), Claireville (Blade and Rose), Baby Bjorn, iCandy, Pacapod, Close, Bump PR (Infantino, Doona) and Silks PR (Angel’s Face).

Top Of The Class The January issue of Mother and Baby magazine featured the Close Caboo +organic in its Slings Big Test. It received the highest possible score, with a fantastic 15/15. Testers declared it to be their favourite, with descriptions including ‘supercomfortable’, ‘practical’, ‘cosy and warm’ and ‘light and easy to use’.

Looking Angelic A popular choice for the mini fashion pages, Angel’s Face has featured in a number of publications in recent weeks, with a feature in Hello magazine highlighting the Silver Cloud tutu as ‘Fit for a Princess’, while Brides selected a princess skirt and glitter shoes as perfect wedding attire for tiny guests.

Wheely Good The fabulous Doona car seat and integrated pushchair featured in the December issue of Baby London. A Dates For Your Diary section highlights the launch of the second Doona colourway on January 10, when a hot pink version of CuddleCo’s innovative car seat will be made available to the public.

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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, nursery account manager Tullika Bhalla takes a look at the latest figures and market trends.

DRIVING

Inset: Cots were driving growth throughout Q3 2016.

The Black Friday Report

GROWTH UK Nursery “Based on GfK data, the nursery hardware market is currently estimated to be well over £937million. This equates to an approximate spend of £1342 per new birth* (*ONS figures on 2015 birth rates), not including nappies, baby food and similar grocery products.

All categories within the industry continue to grow on a quarterly basis, bar a drop across safety and equipment categories.

In particular, November 2016 has seen strong growth across all categories with both volume and value growing at a similar pace as November 2015. The categories primarily driving growth during the month included cots and carrycots, bedding and bathing.”

Specialist Advice “In general, parents continue to rely on the expertise of specialists for ‘big ticket’ products such as strollers and car seats. Traditional retail continues to be the key in these categories as parents like to ‘try before they buy’.

In November 2016, most categories within transportation were in growth, although travel systems did see a decline when compared to November 2015.

Within the retail channels tracked by GfK, specialists account for more sales in the equipment categories than the feeding

ones, indicating that specialists are the ‘goto’ destination for parents of newborns.

Other early years’ products – such as weaning products, additional bottles or breastfeeding accessories – are more of a convenience purchase and can be easily purchased as a part of the daily shop.”

Internet Shopping “Overall purchasing patterns continue to shift, as the size of the pie being spent online continues to grow year-on-year.

With easy availability of information, reviews and peer networks, new parents can take the stress out of buying. For example, £1 out of every £2 spent on baby monitors is spent online.

On average, prices for nursery equipment like baby monitors, high chairs and car seats are higher online.

This is mainly due to parents trading up based on the product features.”

The retail market in 2016 has seen a further evolution of Black Friday sales in UK. There were very few reports of websites crashing, and stores saw controlled shopping taking place on the day. One of the reasons for this was an earlier start to the promotional build-up through retailers’ marketing campaigns.

GfK data confirms this in stark terms when monitoring the number of price changes that actually took place on Black Friday itself. Using GfK’s Online Pricing Intelligence, some 71,000 price changes were counted on Black Friday 2015, compared to the day before. In 2016, only 16,000 price changes were seen when looking at Black Friday versus the previous day, showing how retailers were already geared up and running promotions before the big day itself.

Going into the week of Black Friday, the total market grew 6% overall in value. This was fuelled by online sales growing 21% in value, with a staggering 48% of total sales now going through the web.

The Market “While the nursery sector continues to grow, there have been challenges in Q3, 2016 across various categories.

Signs of growth deceleration continue, with pricing taking a hit during this quarter.

While the effects of Brexit are still being monitored, consumer confidence is up and parents are attracted to feature-rich products, scoping out the best-value deals.”

Inset: Black Friday sales were more controlled in 2016.

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U S TOY FA I R 2017 Inset: Last year’s US Toy Fair saw a 9% increase in overall attendees and a 16% spike in international guests.

Below: The TIA’s Marian Bossard (far right) and Steve Pasierb (second left) officially opening the 2016 show.

THE NEW YORK

HOT LIST

A combination of new product innovation, top licences and a growing trend towards ‘back to basics’ play have all helped the preschool sector bounce back in the US over the last two years. And where to see all the newest lines? Why, the US Toy Fair, of course. PPS packs its bags for the Big Apple.

T

“

his year’s Toy Fair will occupy every square foot of available space in the Jacob K Javits Convention Center,” Marian Bossard, svp global market events at the TIA, proudly tells PPS when we ask how preparations for the 2017 show are progressing.

The growth – and indeed global importance – of the US Toy Fair has been steadily increasing over the years.

It hit record levels in 2015, marking the largest show in its 112-year history and setting a new record for square feet of exhibit space filled. Now it seems that 2017 could eclipse this.

The buoyancy of the show is an indication of the general health of the

US toy market, and the preschool sector is definitely a key contributor.

The US infant/preschool toy category grew by around 3% in 2016. In 2015, the sector increased by 6% after experiencing the largest dollar declines in 2014 – since then, however, new product innovation, hot licences and a growing trend towards classic, traditional play models have been helping to drive consumer demand for preschool products.

“The infant/preschool category is always a key sector at Toy Fair, and we are excited to see what exhibitors will unveil at this year’s show for the next generation of kids,” says Marian.

WHO’S THERE? More than 1,000 companies will be showcasing their latest product lines, with established preschool names (such as Mattel, Spin Master, Melissa & Doug and VTech) alongside more than 100 firsttime exhibitors. Some 20 UK exhibitiors include A Girl for All Time and The Puppet Company.

Inset: There are 107 first time exhibitors on the show floor in 2017.

TOY FAIR 2017 February 18 – 21, 2017 Jacob K Javits Convention Center, New York www.toyfairny.com Just like in the UK market, certain licences are standing out for retailers – notably PAW Patrol – but Marian is keen to point out they are seeing great preschool toys across the board.

“The Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital Care Cart (Just Play) and Zoomer Marshall (Spin Master) were among the top preschool toys of 2016,” she says. “Other popular toys in the category include Go Go Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace (VTech), IO Blocks Vehicles (Guidecraft USA) and Razor Jr T3 Scooter (Razor USA).

We are seeing great preschool toys across just about every category – active, construction, role-play and so on. Kids (and parents) have a lot to choose from depending on their interests.”

“It’s the most playful of all the world’s toy fairs,” Marian concludes.

“Exhibitors are passionate about what they do, so there is a genuine buzz in the air. There is an abundance of opportunities for networking, contact building and growing your knowledge of the toy and youth space.”

With another strong year ahead, it seems that US Toy Fair 2017 is set to live up to the Toy Industry Association’s assertion that it is one of the ‘greatest toy shows on earth’.

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COLU MN I ST

TAPPING INTO THE ASK GEORGINA TRAVEL BUG

As the holiday-booking season begins, Georgina explains why Fundamentally Children is focusing on ways children’s industries can make travelling with kids easier and less stressful.

Georgina Dalton is commercial director at Fundamentally Children, an organisation dedicated to helping children develop skills through play. www.fundamentallychildren.com

A

“

s memories of the festivities begin to fade, and we are faced with a bleak January and credit card bills, many of us will start looking forward to our next holiday. If you’re a parent, however, the thought of organising travel with three, four or even more people, staying somewhere without the usual home comforts and keeping everyone happy and entertained, can be less of a dream and more of a headache.

We already have a number of products in our guides which focus on this area. Perhaps the most obvious category is the travel game – a smaller, more portable version of the larger game, or one with clever additions such as magnetic pieces, carry handles or cases that turn into boards. A great example is the IQ Puzzler Pro from Smart Games, offering entertainment for all the family – and each game also only lasts a few minutes, so it’s ideal while waiting in restaurants or queues. Another good choice is My First Bananagrams; it comes in a handy travel bag and allows little ones to play alongside older siblings or parents.

A wide variety of toys are suitable for travel purposes as well. The My

Take Along Ship from the Playmobil 123 range allows the pieces to be stored inside, while a handle makes it easy for children (or parents!) to carry along. In a similar vein, the Zoo Set from Haba features easily-stored wooden animals in a case which is designed to look like a zoo when it is opened, offering an extra element to play.

Apps are another great way to entertain the whole family during travelling and when on holiday. And tablets can be a perfect, compact addition to a suitcase to while away hours in the car or on a plane.

One area where we don’t see much for children is travel guides.

It would be great to see more apps and books which bring different destinations to life so that little ones can enjoy learning about the places they are visiting.

There is also room for more products suited to travel which help children with languages. Youngsters tend to be fascinated by the discovery of foreign language and love to learn

words and phrases to try out on their travels. Applying language learning in this way can make a sometimes difficult subject more fun, and, in turn, much easier.

Pacca Alpaca is an example of an app which makes learning new languages fun, and there are a few good toys available with dual language modes too, helping children find their way around the basics from a young age.

A recent campaign by Richmond sausages saw them introduce a

tracking device which parents could attach to favourite toys so that if they were lost, you could track their location and reunite them with their little owners. Great Western Railways also picked up on this theme, urging owners of toys found on their trains to come forward and claim them via the listings on their website.

Combining technology and toys in this manner offers all manner of opportunities for toy companies to tap into the emotional attachment children have with their favourite toys and to offer parents the reassurance that Ted won’t be lost in that seafront taverna forever.

There is huge scope for children’s industries to make more of family travel and to really make parents’ lives easier and more enjoyable during their time away. Happy holidays for everyone!”

Totally Travel From February 2017, Fundamentally Children is running a travel campaign with a series of articles featuring advice, tips and product recommendations, alongside the children’s and travel industries. For more information, contact theteam@ fundamentallychildren.com or 01438 831204.

Above left: Keeping tots entertained is key to a successful trip. Above: Travelling with kids can be as frustrating as it is fun.

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COLU MN I ST

A PARENT A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE PERSPECTIVE

In her latest column for Progressive Preschool, columnist Lisa – a blogger, graphic designer and parent to two-year-old Taylor – explains why a full night’s sleep remains the Holy Grail of parenting.

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

N

“

o amount of money will make my baby sleep. Peeling back my eyelids to the sound of a sad sleepy cry, I make my way across the landing in the dark to my two-year-old’s room. It’s 2am and I cannot count how many times I’ve done this. It’s become part of what’s ‘normal’ in our house. Not a one-off but a nightly experience repeated throughout the night.

It hasn’t always been this way; as a baby T was a good sleeper. He still is, once he’s made his way into my bed. Bedtime starts around 7:30pm, after we get home from work and nursery. They say nu rser y w ill tire out your child.

T spends 10.5 hours a day there and it’s true, he’s shattered when he gets home.

Getting him to sleep is no longer an issue, rarely any way. But how on ear th do you get them to stay asleep? We’ve had many sleep aids over the last two years; some have helped,

others not so much. But not one can guarantee sleep.

We had Ewan the dream sheep from birth, a white noise machine in the form of a fluffy sheep. Ewan was a great sleep aid for a modest price tag. Worth his weight in gold, if he works for your baby. I thought Ewan was fantastic, T would drift off to the sounds of harps. Until he fell victim to the projectile vomit massacre of 2015. He’s hand-wash only and he never did look, smell or sound the same again.

At 10-months-old T moved from his much-loved Snuzpod beside me into his own bedroom.

To make the transition easier for him we had the Sleepyhead Grand.

A large pod to cocoon his tiny frame in a cot that must have felt gigantic. This worked, for a while.

Now, At 23 months, T still uses the Sleepyhead in his toddler bed. It’s familiar to him but doesn’t mean he stays asleep.

I’ve had to stop myself from spending money on things that won’t make a difference. Such as the ‘This Works’ baby sleep spray – of course, I want to know if it really does work. I recently came across Whisbear as well. Capable of hearing your little one cry and kicking into action with soothing white noise, I’m tempted to try him too, depsite T being well past the recommended age for white noise to have an effect.

In the end, the only thing that I can rely on to get T back to sleep is the one thing we’re looking to stop. And that’s breastfeeding.

He’s so reliant on it and this has meant for the entire two years of his life I have been the only one who can put him to bed or settle him back to sleep. I haven’t spent a single night away from him through fear that he would scream the night away.

If anything this has made me resent breastfeeding. The amount of times I’ve sat and wondered how different things may have been if he were for mu la-fed f rom day one.

Would he have slept better?

Would he self-soothe? Would he be more independent?

Parents will buy into all kinds of things if it means they can get 50 winks. The thought of a full nights sleep and even a potential lie-in sounds like absolute bliss – and I’m sure one day I’ll get that. Until then you’ll find me lying next to a toddler at 3am, googling ‘baby sleep aids’ and hoping for a miracle.”

Top: Baby Taylor slept in a Snuzpod with Ewan the dream sheep lulling him off to the land of nod. Left: A full night’s sleep is not on the agenda for toddler Taylor!

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TALKING TO... FRANCES BISHOP Inset: The Pud Store in Newark.

A Pocket

ROCKET

For PPS Apprentice fans, self-styled pocket rocket Frances Bishop shot onto our TV screens last October in series 12 of The Apprentice, describing herself as ‘fun and feisty’ as she battled it out with the other candidates to have Lord Sugar invest £250,000 in her business plan.

Married to a professional footballer, and with a three year-old son, the 25 year old is the founder of preschool retail outlet The Pud Company, which has stores in Doncaster and Newark.

PPS caught up with the fiercely ambitious Frances to hear what will be driving sales for The Pud Store in the coming year, and why she’d like to take issue with the government!

I

t’s been an incredible 18 months for Frances. Firstly, she was named as a finalist in the Progressive Preschool Awards 2015 Best Independent Apparel Retailer category and then, just a few months later, she found out that she had been chosen as one of 18 candidates to appear on The Apprentice 2016. Frances was one of the final five contestants to remain in the process, only leaving at the dreaded interview stages.

With an engaging personality and a big smile, Frances went into The Apprentice determined to ‘kill them with kindness’. One of the more

Frances... On Frances Three words that best describe you?

“Happy, determined and ambitious.”

What did you learn from the show?

“Believe in yourself and back everything up with real-world logic and reasoning.”

Share a quirky fact we don’t know about you?

“I’m a former world karate champion!”

Above: The Apprentice 2016 candidate Frances Bishop was one of the final five.

sparky candidates, her calm, efficient manner and positive attitude made her a successful project leader in week six, when she and Team Nebula won the task of taking the most money at the Boat Show, an indication of the strength of character she has shown in setting up her business selling baby and nursery apparel.

“My original ambition was to go into law, but dropping out of university was the best decision I’ve ever made,” she admits. Instead, as a mum of a then two-year-old son, she decided to go into preschool retail after identifying a gap in the market. “It was purely by chance and I went for it. Now I absolutely adore the sector, especially as I’ve made some wonderful friends for life,” she enthuses.

Having worked as a Saturday girl at Debenhams, Frances was able to draw on her sales experience with the high street multiple. “I worked in mature women’s fashions and it taught me that you need to know  PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Global Solutions for Clothing – a specialist company providing the best design and manufacture of children’s generic and licensed apparel and dress-up www.pretendtobee.com support@pretendtobee.com +44 (0)115 921 5690 Spring Fair – Hall 5 Stand K100 Pretend To Be_GSC.indd 1

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TALKING TO... FRANCES BISHOP

Frances... On The Apprentice As one of 18 candidates on The Apprentice 2016, Frances describes her time on the TV show as the opportunity of a lifetime. “We did some incredible things, such as going up to the top of The Shard in London first thing in the morning when it was closed to the public,” she says. “I was very, very lucky to go through that experience.”

Far from being daunted by the steely Karren Brady or Claude Littner watching her every move, she said it was absolutely about getting on with the task.

“It is a bit nerve-racking at the beginning, but after a while, you can’t put up a pretence. You just have to be yourself.”

As for Lord Sugar, she says that what you see is what you get. “Our only time with him was when the viewers got to see him on TV. But the boardroom was always pretty intense, especially as you could never tell what was going to happen. Lord Sugar is very upfront and straight talking and I totally respected what he had to say.”

everything about your product –

customers like details. But apart from that, I’ve had no other retail experience at all so I’m completely self-taught. I’ve made mistakes,” she admits, “but the most important thing has been to surround myself with people who want to help, and to learn from everyone and everything.”

Frances opened her first flagship store in Doncaster almost two years ago on the outskirts of the main shopping area, agreeing that it was a risk at the time. But fortunately, she says that it has really paid off.

Naming the shop The Pud Store came about because she is always calling her little boy pudding. “I think it’s quite quirky and a little different and really sums us up!” she smiles.

Both shops primarily sell pastseason stock with a discount off the RRP. “Our main focus is on great customer service, understanding the brands we stock, and creating a real community feel in our stores,” Frances explains. “People can pop in for a chat or advice, and I think

Above: Frances (in the red dress) with Lord Sugar and the other Apprentice candidates.

that’s one of the reasons we have done so well. I always say each store has its own personality, as do the staff and the customers.”

Such has been the success of the Doncaster store, and a second, recently-expanded store in Newark, that Frances has started to expand the product ranges into the nursery and gift sector due to customer demand. “By expanding our product offering we can give a more complete shopping experience,” she emphasises.

Last year was particularly exciting for both shops, with a tangible increase in locals shopping at independent stores. “It’s been great for business, and I’m enjoying seeing brands push the limits in terms of design, as well as watching emerging talent thrive in the industry.”

However, she’d definitely like to see the government do more to help high street retailers. “April 2017 will see positive change regarding business rates, but I still don’t think the government is going far enough to encourage a high street revival,” she comments. “As retailers, we need to be coming together and supporting one another, making sure we have a voice. Business rates was one of the hardest things for us as a small business, especially in the

Right: Frances in situ at The Pud Store.

Below: Some of the preschool lines that Frances sells in her two shops.

first 12 months of trading.”

Going forward, she’s determined to open at least another two stores, and to grow The Pud Store’s online base further still. “We’re very lucky to have organic footfall in our stores, but we’ll be looking to smash this year’s figures by bringing on board new brands and also expanding our offer.”

Looking at the 18 months Frances’s just had, two new stores and increased footfall will be just the start!

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EVERYONE

TV, DIGITAL, PROMOTIONS, CONSUMER PRODUCTS, RECREATION

© 2016 Viacom. Blaze and the Monster Machines, Wissper, Digby. TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES © 2016 Viacom Overseas Holdings C.V. All Rights Reserved.

PAW PATROL © 2016 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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© 2016 Viacom. Shimmer and Shine. TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES © 2016 Viacom Overseas Holdings C.V. All Rights Reserved.

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09/01/2017 13:02

P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G FOCU S

After a stellar 2016 for preschool brands, which saw retail shelves packed with quality product across all categories, 2017 is shaping up to be another phenomenal year. There are big milestones being marked, newcomers looking to make an impact and some classics looking to attract new audiences.

PPS talks to some of the major players about what we can look forward to.

Inset: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt finished 2016 in a strong position thanks to the new film tie-in.

Values

BRAND

F

rom Bing to Boj, Postman Pat to PAW Patrol, The Furchester Hotel to Chuggington, Octonauts and Q Pootle 5 to Mister Maker and Nelly & Nora – the licensed preschool sector is booming, with everything from evergreen favourites, exciting newcomers and digital launches.

While this may produce something of a headache for retail when it comes to shelf space, the choice of quality brands – and accompanying licensed product – has never been greater for the consumer.

Below: Two decades on, and the Teletubbies are as popular as ever. Right: Literary brand Dear Zoo marks 35 years in 2017.

“The current marketplace is busier than ever,” says Marianne James, vp commercial partnerships, consumer products and experiences for Nickelodeon UK and Ireland.

“The UK is renowned for having one of the most competitive preschool landscapes in the world. As a brand owner, the challenge is about ensuring your properties have cut-through in a very crowded market. That comes from strong media placement,

consistent scheduling and ongoing on-and-off air marketing.”

Nickelodeon enters 2017 in a buoyant position – PAW Patrol was nothing short of a phenomenon last year, and there are plans to continue this growth as well as build on solid



LICENSING HIGHLIGHT: TELETUBBIES It’s a big year for the Teletubbies brand, with 2017 marking its 20th anniversary.

As part of the celebrations, Barnardo’s is launching a new partnership with the Teletubbies property. The collaboration will see special Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po limited edition merchandise launching in Barnardo’s shops across the UK from April 2017.

The Teletubbies brand will also be supporting the Barnardo’s Big Toddle. This is the largest annual fundraising event for under-fives, which is also celebrating its 20th birthday.

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G FOCU S Inset: Kazoops is building up a solid licensing programme.

LICENSING HIGHLIGHT: KAZOOPS Cheeky Little Media has confirmed TOMY as the master toy partner for Kazoops. The company will produce plush, figurines, play-sets and games, launching from July 2017.

The toys – which will be showcased at Toy Fair at Olympia – will have play patterns and interactive features that link directly to the core attributes of the Kazoops episodes.

TOMY is the latest addition to the growing licensing programme – handled by Art + Science International. Other partners include Immediate Media, Redan Publishing, Fashion UK and Rainbow Productions.

“The response to Kazoops on CBeebies was fantastic and paved the way for the launch of the licensing programme,” says Nicola Webster, licensing director. “It will remain our focus for preschool in 2017, with new episodes airing as well as the launch of toys, apparel and magazines.”

“It’s a cliché,” she continues, “but it’s a crowded marketplace and retailers are reluctant to commit to newer brands making it harder to breakthrough into the market. There’s still a reliance on classic brands a lot of the time which is a shame, but it does take time for a new property to build.”

 starts for Blaze and the Monster

Machines, Shimmer & Shine and Digby Dragon. Meanwhile, Rusty Rivets will be the second production with Spin Master for Nickelodeon.

BBC Worldwide is also looking to capitalise on the early success of Go Jetters, as well as further develop the BAFTA award-winning Hey Duggee in 2017. There are also plans for Sarah & Duck, while there will be a considerable dial up of focus on Mr Tumble as BBCW looks to make it a strong evergreen brand in its portfolio.

“Outside of the CBeebies platform being trusted and having that engaged audience, I truly believe that each of our shows offers something different from what’s out there,” says Rikesh Desai, licensing director for merchandise and gaming, consumer

products at BBC Worldwide.

Mattel is seeing the benefit from being both a licensee and a brand owner – its preschool portfolio includes the likes of Go Jetters, Blaze, Bing, Shimmer & Shine and Octonauts, as well as its own IP such as Thomas & Friends, Bob the Builder and Fireman Sam.

Wendy Hill, brand activation director at Mattel UK, is looking forward to a strong 2017 and says that any activity which can help bring brands to life is key to helping them stand out.

“Any activity that can gain attention for your brand is very valuable; bringing characters directly to the consumer is always an advantage,” she explains, “whether that is through costume character experiences or more immersive experiences like Days Out with Thomas, Thomasland or Mattel Play. We can certainly see more innovation coming in the licensing categories, particularly toys, extending the play experience in new and exciting ways.”

Meanwhile, eOne is looking to achieve further stand out for Peppa Pig in 2017 by taking the brand to the big screen. Peppa Pig My First Cinema Experience kicks off in the UK on April 7, opening in over 400 cinemas. A capsule collection of London-themed merchandise will also launch in spring to coincide with the theatrical release. Katie Rollings, eOne’s head of UK licensing, says this should create “a halo effect for the brand generally from the exposure this release will generate”.

Classic literary brands are also having something of a moment.

Dear Zoo will be celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2017, with Macmillan Children’s Books planning a year of activity. This includes a special partnership and launch at ZSL London Zoo in March. In addition, as well as 



Above, above right and right: Bing, Boj and The Furchester Hotel are all popular shows on CBeebies.

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A Product of Hard Work

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01889 593499 www.jcb.com

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P RES CH OOL LI CEN S I N G FOCU S

LICENSING HIGHLIGHT: IN THE NIGHT GARDEN

Above: Classic brand Thomas & Friends has a raft of immersive experiences to bring it to life for fans.

 being the publisher of Dinosaur Roar,

Macmillan will also be launching a new board book collection specifically designed for preschoolers and inspired by the classic picture book.

Stephanie Barton, publisher for 0-6 at Macmillan Children’s Books, says: “Classics that are sensitively curated from one generation to the next – Paddington, Enid Blyton, and our own Dear Zoo and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – are always going to have a special hold on the child that became an adult, buying for their own child.”

For Stephanie, the challenges remain the same as for any other brand owner. “It’s always about how to make something stand out,” she says. “Preschool books compete with toys, games, films and a host of merchandise so we have to think carefully about our approach and always start with the child.”

Julia Posen, evp and commercial director, group rights and development division, Walker Books, agrees that persuading licensees Below: BBC Worldwide is looking to capitalise on the BAFTA win for Hey Duggee.

Below right: Rusty Rivets is the latest launch from Nickelodeon and Spin Master.

Below: ‘Ten Years of Magical Journeys’ will mark In the Night Garden’s anniversary.

DHX Brands will be marking ten years of In the Night Garden in 2017 with a host of initiatives and events.

Under the tagline of ‘Ten years of Magical Journeys’, the activity begins with the launch of a standalone magazine from Redan, while Abbey Home Entertainment is set to release a special tenth anniversary edition DVD. More high-profile partnerships will be unveiled in the coming months.

In June, the first Family Gardening Show from RHS Wisley will feature a themed In the Night Garden zone with branded activities and games.

These will include Upsy Daisy yoga, flower pot decorating, sensory story time and music-making classes, as well as visits from special guests. In addition, RHS will be offering a special ITNG trail, enhanced

by Augmented Reality. Powered by Gamar, the app will be available across all four RHS gardens from May through to the end of June.

Themed bedrooms will be present at the new CBeebies Land Hotel, while the touring show will also return for its eighth consecutive year.

The eagerly-awaited In the Night Garden Baby range will launch, supported by DHX attending the Manchester Baby & Toddler show in March.

“In the Night Garden has had a unique connection with the youngest of audiences and their parents and their carers in the last decade,” says Deborah Hooper, vp global brand management at DHX Brands.

“We look forward to building on that extraordinary success with new partnerships and initiatives over the next ten years and beyond.”

and retailers that your brand really will cut through is a challenge for everyone. The company is confident that We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is set for a successful 2017, following on from the successful debut of the film tie-in on Channel 4 over Christmas.

“There will be plenty of new product to market and the brand will be supported with considerable off-air marketing and partnership campaigns,” says Julia.

She also believes that the digital space has proved itself as being a great source of new content in the last couple of years, while changes in viewing habits of younger children and increased flexibility around content format could have exciting repercussions for the preschool sector.

Julia concludes: “Ultimately range and diversity helps everyone and I’d like to see as many properties as possible working in the preschool market.”

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THE BAFTA AWARD THE WINNING BAFTA AWARD W

Heavyweight marketing and PR support throughout 2017!

2016 Children’s BAFTA winner forHeavyweight Best Pre-school marketing and PR support Program! throughout 2017!

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HEY DUGGEE™ and character logos™ & © Studio AKA Ltd 2014. LicensedHEY

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BBC Worldwide Ltd. BBC logo ™ & © BBC 1996.

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TOY FA I R FOCU S Inset: : The organisers of Toy Fair are anticipating another busy three days at this year’s show.

Calling LONDON

Above: “Toy Fair 2017 is shaping up to be another fantastic sold out show,” says Majen Immink, head of Toy Fair operations and sales.

J

anuary is all about ringing in the new, and for the toy industry this means hitching itself to the annual trade fair merry-go-round to showcase the newest innovation, products and licences in its collective portfolio.

This year’s London leg at Olympia – back in its traditional Tuesday to Thursday slot (January 24-26) – is set to not only be a celebration of the UK toy industry’s success in 2016, but also underline its ambitions to build on this in 2017.

“The main aim for Toy Fair 2017, as always, is to provide the best platform

for the industry to come together and conduct business over a busy three days,” says Majen Immink, head of Toy Fair operations and sales. “Our high exhibitor and visitor returnee rate is indicative of the key role the event plays in the industry’s buying calendar.”

There will be more than 250 companies occupying the 22,000 m2 of Olympia, with 45 first time exhibitors. The preschool sector will, as ever, have strong representation – not just from the big players such as Character Options, Golden Bear, Playmobil, Bandai and TOMY, but also from new exhibitors and smaller companies including Myweeteepee, Funkit World, Skip Hop and Liberty House Toys.

Whatever the size of the company, the aim is the same – to showcase new product.

After a successful venture into preschool last year, Bladez Toyz is looking to expand on

It hardly seems like a year has passed, but the UK toy industry is gearing up once again for its annual trip to London’s Olympia.

After a strong 2016, all eyes will be on the new product lines and fresh innovation which companies will be hoping can bring the same levels of success for 2017. PPS catches up with just some of those on the show floor about why Toy Fair is so vital and what they have planned.

PRESCHOOL HIGHLIGHT: GP FLAIR The Doc McStuffins range is evolving to match the new Baby Nursery within the toy hospital theme from the TV series. At the heart of the collection is the Baby Lil’ Nursery Pals assortment of four babies dressed in plush onesies. There is also Get Better Baby Cece, while the hero of the Baby collection is the Baby Check-up All-in-One Nursery.

The play-set includes multiple play areas, light and sound and storage areas.

GP Flair will also be showcasing new additions to the Peppy Pets line – a pug, French Bulldog and unicorn – as well as a safari theme in the Half Shell Heroes collection.

Stand E39 Left: The Half Shell Heroes will boast a new safari theme.

 PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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TOY FA I R FOCU S

PRESCHOOL HIGHLIGHT: VTECH

 this in 2017, with a key focus on the

20th anniversary of the Teletubbies, new Peppa Pig lines and the introduction of new engines into its Thomas & Friends RC inflatables.

“We are exploring new categories for innovative preschool lines and one concept we will be unveiling is our motorised track system, which combines puzzle fun with exciting

Above: Bladez Toyz will be unveiling a new motorised track system at the show. Above middle: Sing Along Mr Tumble will be just one of the licensed highlights from Golden Bear. Above right: The new Gearzooz range joins Vtech’s Toy Fair line-up.

vehicle movement,” Iain Morgan, ceo at Bladez Toyz, tells PPS. “For example, with Teletubbies, young fans will be able to build a track using brightly coloured tile pieces and then watch the Teletubbies car

PRESCHOOL HIGHLIGHT: CHARACTER OPTIONS Character will be welcoming new arrivals to its Peppa Pig range this year, with Peppa’s Family Home Play-set joining the Classic collection. It includes six rooms across three stories, plus articulated figures and accessories.

Meanwhile, a new licensorsupported theme centred around ‘Play Days’ and learning will run during autumn/winter 2017. Character will launch play-sets including a chunky blue school bus with sound, a classroom set and a schoolhouse.

There will also be a new ABC Singing Peppa plush.

Character will also be celebrating the 20th anniversary

of the Teletubbies brand with a new collection of eight-inch talking Party plush of all four characters. Later in the year, the new Tiddlytubbies will arrive – the eight-inch giggling plush toys have new muted colours and towelling fabric bodies.

There will be four styles – Umby Pumby (yellow), Nin (purple), Mi-Mi (light blue) and Ping (pink). The range will also include the ten-inch Shuffle and Giggle Tiddlytubbies.

Stand E119

There will be two new ranges joining the VTech Baby family – Pop-aball and GearZooz – with both encouraging motor skill development and imaginative play.

“The VTech stand is dedicated to show innovation and exciting new developments on our award winning ranges,” says Charlotte Drake, VTech’s senior brand manager. “This takes us from pregnancy purchases such as monitors, to the evergrowing VTech Baby, preschool and beyond. With over 80 new products, there are so many items to see.

“We hope to catch up with as many retail partners as possible to both showcase our new items and discuss our 2017 plans.”

Stand Gallery 500

whizz around while being guided by the groove on the track. Toy Fair is the ideal event to showcase our new toys, meet new and existing customers and to listen to feedback which can help us fine-tune the range for the year ahead.”

Licences will also play a key part for Golden Bear, including Bush Baby World and DC Super Friends. Two new characters will be introduced into the Sleep Tight All Night range, 

Right: Peppa Pig will continue to be key for Character in 2017.

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TOY FA I R FOCU S



as well as a new DC Super Friends line for Batman and Sing Along Mr Tumble feature plush. Twirlywoos will be boosted with the arrival of Musical Statues Dancing Great BigHoo feature plush and there will be a refreshed Ninky Nonk Train for In the Night Garden, while the eagerly-awaited In the Night Garden Baby launches into the nursery space. Additional new products will be introduced across the My First JCB, Go MINI and Thomas & Friends portfolios.

Katherine Pierce, senior licensing and marketing manager, offers: “London Toy Fair provides us with an excellent opportunity to see the key retailers at all levels across the three days and showcase our strong portfolio of exciting brands.”

For Rainbow Designs, Toy Fair is the most important show in the UK calendar. “It is the one show that is consistently well attended by buyers from both

PRESCHOOL HIGHLIGHT: INFANTINO BKIDS Infantino BKids is making its Toy Fair debut and will be launching the Sensory Toy collection. Products are suitable for newborns up to 12 months and aim to educate, excite and entice baby, aiding in their development.

Highlights include Leon the Chameleon Light and Shape sorter, which will allow little ones to practice motor skills by pushing buttons to match colours and shape sorting. There is also the Sensory Discovery Robot which features sounds, lights and funny expressions which activate each time it is pushed, pulled, twisted or turned upside down, plus the 3-in-1 Walk and Drive Discovery Car with its colourful textures and buttons, lights and sounds.

major retailers and independents,” says Suzie Howes, head of licensing and marketing. The company will have all of its licensed collections on show, including preschool offerings for Paddington, the Peter Rabbit TV range, Miffy’s Adventures Big and Small and the complete line-up for The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Of course, Toy Fair also brings into the spotlight those companies which specialise in ‘pure play’ offerings. Bigjigs Toys will be welcoming additions to the puzzle category in 2017, plus a new theme to Bigjigs Rail and a complete overhaul of the role-play category including all food and hand appliances.

“Toy Fair starts the year – indeed, it would be hard to imagine January without it,” states Liz Ireland, Bigjigs’ director. “Showcasing new product is very important – catalogues will have been delivered in early January and our customer base likes to handle the product we are launching and reacquaint themselves with previous best sellers.”

“Introducing new lines to the customer base is hugely beneficial to increasing the sales of them in the last quarter.

I believe toys with an educational twist will feature highly in 2017.”

Fiesta Crafts, too, will arrive at Toy Fair off the back of a successful 2016,

Above: You can find the Progressive Preschool team on stand GH31.

with marketing and brand manager Rob Trup expecting this success to continue in 2017. “We have many new products including the wooden ABC Bus, Buzzybodies – a new range of baby toys – poseable Play Figures and wooden Activity Boxes, Shapes and Faces with magnetic pieces, new reusable Stickabout sticker sets and alphabet letters, along with all of our existing popular ranges,” Rob tells PPS. Away from the show floor, there are plentiful opportunities for visitors to check out preschool product – including the Best New Toys display in the gallery, Toy Fair TV and the popular Demo Zone.

As a shop window for the UK toy industry, it doesn’t get any better than Toy Fair, and it seems like the preschool sector is certainly in for a bumper show and a bumper 2017.

Far left: The Play Kitchen is part of Bigjigs’ successful role-play category, which will receive an overhaul in 2017.

Left: The ABC Bus is a new launch from Fiesta Crafts.

Stand Gallery 310 Above right: The Sensory Discovery Robot is part of Infantino BKids’ new Sensory Toy collection.

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DESIGNED IN THE UK SINCE 1997

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WHAT’S NEW TOY FAIR 2017 New products featuring at this year’s Toy Fair KD UK KD UK is returning to Toy Fair 2017 with a focus on its new nursery nightlights range, Tiny Boo. The range consists of five lines, including the Tiny Boo lantern, Tiny Boo mini light, Tiny Boo baby light, Tiny Boo huggy plush and Tiny Boo sleep trainer. Tiny Boo night lights help babies and children get to sleep with a reassuring multi-coloured glowing light and calming sounds.

Tel: 01727 827194 www.kdplanet.com/uk Stand Gallery 630

TRACTOR TED

LE TOY VAN One year after making its leap into the toddler toys market, Le Toy Van has seen sell-out success that has positioned the company as a leading name in the preschool sector under its Petilou toddler umbrella. The company is now working with big brands like Pampers on its Reward Club App and has been accredited by the Good Toy Guide, for its Forest Stacker tower and bag.

Tel: 0208 979 2036 www.letoyvan.com Stand E10

Tractor Ted, the award-winning children’s real life farming brand is back at London Toy Fair and is launching a gorgeous new toy range perfect for children up to six years old. Endorsed by some of the UK’s favourite celebrities including Ben Fogle and Clare Balding, the Tractor Ted range includes books, DVDs, gifts, toys, apparel and homeware.

Tel: 01373 834500 Web: www.tractorted.co.uk Stand GH2

WOW TOYS GIBSONS Established almost a hundred years ago, Gibsons has been entertaining Britain with its puzzles, games and gifts since 1919. The trade fairs are always a great opportunity for the Gibsons team to meet customers old and new, as well as present a host of beautiful new puzzle designs and some exciting new games.

Tel: 020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Stand E40

MICRO SCOOTERS Mini Micro Deluxe was voted 2016 toy of the year. The iconic multiaward-winning scooter has been reinvented for 2017 and now offers an adjustable handlebar, anodised stem, increased weight limit and superior footplate for extra grip.

For ages two to five years.

Tel: 01206 381 334 www.micro-scooters.co.uk Stand Number: B45

WOW Toys is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and is launching wonderful new products at Toy Fair, that include Sam the Steam Train, as well as super cute additions to its mould resistant bath toy range. All WOW Toys come with a five year guarantee and require no batteries, making them toys parents can trust.

Tel: 0207 4710980 www.wowtoys.com Stand G15

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See you at London Toy Fair Stand

500

Enjoying 30 years of learning fun in the UK...

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WHAT’S NEW TOY FAIR 2017 New products featuring at this year’s Toy Fair MILLY & FLYNN Milly & Flynn is developing a range of wooden Teletubbies toys as part of the 20 year Teletubbies anniversary. The range will include a magnetic play set, a pull and play toy, a shape sorter and some stacking blocks. These traditionalstyle toys will be carefully created to occupy little hands and stimulate growing minds.

Tel: 01242 2417665 www.millyandflynn.com Stand B115

GALT TOYS Galt Toys will be introducing its first three-in-one Playnest & Gym to the crowds at London Toy Fair.

The double-sided Playnest, plus a soft rainbow gym with three toys, supports baby during rest and play from birth, lying down and later sitting up. The soft velour resting area with harness cradles a young baby over the inflatable ring. All new products will of course be shown alongside Galt’s existing portfolio.

Tel: 0161 428 9111 www.galttoys.com Stand E9

FIESTA CRAFTS

BANANAGRAMS Bananagrams, the anagram game that drives you bananas, will be showcasing its new game for preschoolers at London Toy Fair. My First Bananagrams is a brand new game designed to help ripen little learners’ vocabulary. Aimed at ages four-plus, the early-learners’ version differs from the original family word game with colourful lower case letters and unique double letter tiles, designed to make it easier for mini wordsmiths to race to complete their word grid.

Tel: 020 7262 9696 www.winningmoves.co.uk Stand E115

BRIO With the BRIO Farm set, children as young as 18 months can indulge in country life. The colourful barn is made from strong and durable plastic, and is ideal for young children to create their own fantasy world with the wooden figures, wooden animals, fences and other accessories. Watch this barn come to life in the hands and imagination of a young child.

Tel: 01869 363800 www.brio.co.uk Stand E140

Fiesta Crafts is proud to release the ABC bus – an exciting educational toy with an imaginative twist.

Inside the rollable bus, there are 26 chunky double sided wooden pieces. One side displays a letter in both upper and lower case, the other has a character whose name begins with that letter. Each character is different from the other, and the whole class are wonderfully diverse with their own distinct personality.

Tel: 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk Stand D2

GOLDEN BEAR 2017 marks the 10th anniversary of In the Night Garden and heralds Golden Bear’s launch into the nursery sector with In the Night Garden Baby. The collection will include a beautiful selection of nursery toys including blankies, rattles and hanging chimes all designed to delight, entertain and stimulate the senses.

Tel: 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Stand E69

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WHAT’S NEW TOY FAIR 2017 New products featuring at this year’s Toy Fair SMART TOYS AND GAMES Smart Toys and Games will be showcasing a number of new SmartMax construction sets and multi-level SmartGames for ages one-year plus, including the new imaginative SmartMax construction set My First Safari and an extension to the popular SmartGames Fairy Tales range Snow White.

Tel: 01903 885669 www.smartgames.eu Stand F36

SAMBRO

INFANTINO BKIDS Infantino BKids is set to start the year with a bang as it exhibits at Toy Fair for the first time to launch the Sensory Toy Collection. The spectacular range includes a multitude of toys that will educate, excite and entice baby. The highly anticipated collection of high quality, innovative, sensory toys are unlike any other on the market and are not to be missed.

Tel: 07557 640097 www.bkids.co.uk Stand Gallery 310

The award-winning preschool Play-Doh range from SAMBRO will be added to even further in 2017.

The hugely popular collection features innovative products which extend the play possibilities of Play-Doh. The collection includes arts and crafts and bags watch out for brand new products at Toy Fair.

Tel: 0845 8739380 www.sambro.co.uk Stand Gallery 400

HALILIT RAVENSBURGER The Ravensburger My First Puzzle range has been developed specifically with children aged 18-months plus in mind. The Mothers & Babies My First Puzzle includes six shaped two piece puzzles, each showing a different animal with its baby. Farmyard Friends includes nine, two-piece jigsaws, and each puzzle features a cute and recognizable animal.

These jigsaws are ideal for little hands as an introduction into the wonderful world of puzzles.

Tel: 01869 363800 www.ravensburger.com Stand E140

LITTLECONCEPTS

Don’t miss meeting Dr Pooch on the Halilit stand at Toy Fair. This cuddly, charismatic companion teaches preschoolers all they need to know about dressing skills. Taf Toys new Easier Parenting baby toys will also be unveiled along with lots of new musical, sensory, role play and bathtime toys from Battat and Edushape.

Tel: 01254 872454 www.halilit.co.uk Stand E90

littleCONCEPTS is back for the second year running at Toy Fair.

After a hugely successful first year trading, its is delighted to be launching 2017 with new brand ScribbleDown joining PlanToys, Avenue Mandarine and BrickStix.

Over fifty new products are launching and it will have some amazing show offers available.

Tel: 0117 230 2112 www.littleconcepts.co.uk Stand GH51

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y Collection! r e s r u N w e T h e i r re s i s t i b l e n

Come and see us...

London Toy Fair Stand E69 Nuremberg Stand H5 C-15 Š 2017 DHX Worldwide Limited. In the Night Garden and all related characters, titles and logos are trademarks of DHX Worldwide. All rights reserved.

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WHAT’S NEW TOY FAIR 2017 New products featuring at this year’s Toy Fair FUNRISE Come and visit Funrise International at the London Toy Fair to discover the new Luna Petunia master toy range which launches this autumn. From plush to plastic and from dress up to dolls, the range has something for every Luna Petunia Fan. Tel: 01908 555640 www.funrise.com Stand G90

SKIP HOP

SCHLEICH Schleich will showcase its many play worlds at Toy Fair, with new additions for 2017 including animal figurines and larger playsets. The preschool offering for farm world and wild life will expand for 2017. Key to each of the ranges will be brand new starter sets with the highlight for the second half of the year being a Croco Jungle Research Station, the ideal starting point for all new wild life adventures.

Tel: 01279 870000 www.schleich-s.co.uk Stand B121

Skip Hop is extremely excited to be exhibiting at London Toy Fair for the first time. Showcasing industry award-winning products and new innovations, the Skip Hop stand is not one to be missed.

Featuring toddler essentials in the form of the infamous Skip Hop Zoo collection, to bandana buddies plush toys, bath time toys and accessories, nursery accessories and an innovative selection of baby activity gyms.

Tel: 01582 434250 www.skiphop.com Stand B135

RAINBOW DESIGNS Rainbow Designs is set to unveil a host of exciting new products across a number of its prolific toy and nursery brands at Toy Fair this year. 2017 will see the arrival of some fantastic new feature plush toys in two of Rainbow Designs’ most famous brands; Paddington Bear and the new Peter Rabbit TV collection. Amongst others, dancing Paddington and cycling Paddington along with talking and hopping.

Tel: 01329 227 300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Stand E120

CLEMENTONI

TRENDS UK Trends UK is introducing the new Thomas & Friends electronic learning toys from summer 2017.

Items will aid development of early learning including numeracy and communication skills with the much loved characters from the evergreen property. The new range includes a Thomas & Friends smart tablet, a Thomas & Friends flip-up phone and a learn with Thomas magnetic fridge toy.

Tel: 01295 768078 www.trendsuk.co.uk Stand H52

Following the success of the key Baby Clementoni lines in 2016, showcasing at the 2017 London Toy Fair will be the new 2-in-1 interactive football table and Doc the robot. The science category has always been strong for Clementoni and it brings to the show two additions to the range - the Evolution Robot and also an Interactive Globe.

Tel: 0208 782 1143 www.clementoni.com Stand Gallery 155

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WHAT’S NEW ASOBI New products from Asobi: London Toy Fair, stand 124 MICADOR SENSORY PAINTING PACK Art should be accessible to everyone so the early stART range from Micador is designed and developed specifically for children aged 18 months to four years. The Painting Pack offers thick creamy paint to use with the different surfaces provided.

MY FIRST FOOTBALL

MICADOR SENSORY CREATING PACK

MY FIRST RUGBY

My First range from Schmaze offers cute and engaging characters and shapes with each product containing a rattle to help stimulate early development and engage our little sports stars of the future. The My First Football toy is called Dribble One-Two and aims to encourage children to enjoy playing flootbal from an early age.

The Creating Pack encourages abstract thinking through creation with the colourful craft material included. The whole range can be used to develop fine motor skills and to capture children’s imaginations

My First range from Schmaze is designed to encourage children to fully enjoy playing sport without the fear of getting hurt, allowing them to take their first steps towards sporting and personal success. The My First Rubgy toy is called Grubber, Muck and Maul. This adorable plush range will encourage parent and child bonding by providing hours of fun, whatever the weather.

MICADOR SENSORY DRAWING PACK The Sensory packs include everything needed to allow children to explore the sensory development world through encouraging imaginative play & emotional expression.

MY FIRST CRICKET My First range from Schmaze is suitable for children 0-18mths+ and is designed to introduce children to sport at a much earlier age. The My First Cricket toy is called Willow and Cherry and is a great way for children to take interest in the sport.

Tel: 01628 200077 www.asobi.co.uk Stand Gallery 124 at Toy Fair PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Visit the Rubie’s Stand

Š 2017 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Nickelodeon, Shimmer and Shine and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Spring Fair, Hall 5, Stand F102-G103 Nuremberg Toy Fair, Hall 12, I-29

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N U REMB ERG TOY FA I R FOCU S

It’s the largest toy fair in the world, taking place from February 1 – 6, with over 70,000 visitors heading to Nuremberg to check out some 2,800 exhibitors across 13+ product halls. The preschool sector is a vital component of the show – and it’s not just toy companies that recognise its importance. PPS takes a look at what we can expect and asks some exhibitors for their views.

NUREMBERG 2017

EURO VISIONS I t’s probably fair to say that the true international nature of Nuremberg Toy Fair makes it an unmissable event for many.

Its sheer size and scale – in 2016, there were 2,851 companies from 66 countries covering 170,000 m2 of exhibition space – means that there really is something for everyone.

And you certainly need all of the six days (which this year cover February 1 – 6) to be able to get round it – as last year’s 70,000+ visitors from 125

1 – 6 Feb 2017 Nuremberg Exhibition Center www.spielwarenmesse.de

Above: The 2016 show saw 2,851 companies from 66 countries covering 170,000 m2 of exhibition space.

countries will have discovered.

The preschool sector – including what the show organiser, Spielwarenmesse eG, refers to as ‘baby and infant articles’ – is key for the event and is one of the main product segments.

As well as a dedicated new product area, preschool lines can be found

SHOW FLOOR SPECIALS A special area at Spielwarenmesse will be dedicated to ‘Baby & Infant Articles’, providing buyers with a valuable overview of the broad spectrum of products available.

The area will be ideally situated in the passageway between Halls 2, 3 and 4; with toys and related products for toddlers taking centre stage in the surrounding halls.

Covering almost 800 m², the new area focuses on six main areas: Baby Toys, Baby Textile, Travel Systems, Food & Care, Home & Safety and Licensed Products. On top of this, around 400 exhibitors at this year’s show will feature baby and infant items on the show floor.

Sabine Liebscher, senior project manager at Spielwarenmesse eG, explains: “Our aim is to show visitors the full range of items for babies and toddlers on display here in Nuremberg.”

Above: New Baby Annabell lines will be key for HTI.

throughout the halls, including in the UK Pavilion in Hall 12.0.

Eduk8 Worldwide is one of those companies taking residence in the Pavilion and it will be launching its Eduk8 Play range. This includes a number of new products such as its Large Activity Play Mats - with Zoo, City, Construction and Farm themes – as well as some new preschool toys designed especially for STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) learning and for those with special educational needs, among other types of product.

“The fair is our European shop window and gives us the opportunity not only to meet existing customers,  PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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N U REMB ERG TOY FA I R FOCU S



Above: Travis Designs will launch a raft of new product including Disney Baby characters Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear.

Above right: New Large Activity Play Mats will be showcased by Eduk8 Worldwide.

Right: LeapFrog is looking to build on the solid start achieved by the LeapStart.

In addition, a series of new colour updates have been made to 2016 launches, including Count & Crawl Kitty, Scout’s Goodnight Light and both LeapStart systems,

but also to attract new business,” says Christine Lawson, managing director of Eduk8 Worldwide. “We hope buyers will be attracted to our stand and appreciate the fact that our range is exclusive, so our unique designs are not available elsewhere.”

For HTI, which has a strategic focus on continued international growth, Nuremberg is key, with the company supporting the show with a permanent showroom in Hall 12.2 since 2009.

HTI will be introducing new Baby Annabell and BABY born ranges, as well as expanding its PAW Patrol lines with cases for key characters Chase, Marshall and Skye. Each contains a guitar, castanet and maraca. It also has new Peppa Pig role-play, musical and bubbles toys, as well as dolls prams, plus Teletubbies pocket money and bubbles lines, along with new role-play and musical instruments.

Alison Downie, HTI’s global licensing and brand director, says: “The Nuremberg show offers the opportunity to see as many international distributors and customers as possible over the course of a few days. In particular, it enables us to see and make contact with those that do not attend the Hong Kong previews in January and provides an ideal opportunity to meet customers from the local German market.”

For LeapFrog, it’s a chance to showcase the investment it is making in its ever-expanding toy category, with 14 new lines launching across multimedia learning, print-based learning and learning toys in autumn/winter 2017.

THE UK PAVILION

as well as existing favourites Scribble & Write, Fridge Phonics and Learn & Groove Musical Table.

“2016 has been a great year for LeapFrog and has seen us create exciting new products that have really engaged with children and their parents,” offers Sally Walker, LeapFrog’s UK md.

“LeapStart has had wonderful feedback and as a consequence exceeded sales expectations, which is testament to its unique combination of fun and education.”

It’s not just toy companies that see the importance of having a presence at Nuremberg. Among the new launches from Travis Designs will be Dress up

by Design Ride on Fairy Tale Pony, the spring/summer Disney Boutique party dresses and new Disney Baby character outfits including Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear. There will also be a new Alice in Wonderland baby dress, a Bambi tutu bodysuit, an Eeyore bodysuit and tutu sets featuring Tinker Bell and Minnie Mouse.

“Going to the show means that we get the opportunity to meet with new and existing customers face-to-face, interact with them and really show them the quality of our range and how passionate we are about the products,” explains Dena Pearce, sales and marketing at Travis Designs. “It also gives us the opportunity to reach different audiences and customers outside of the UK.” If you’re looking for a shop window into the international toy business – and more – it would be difficult to match Nuremberg; just bring some comfortable shoes to cover that 170,000 m2 of exhibition space!

This year’s show will welcome 32 companies to the popular UK Pavilion – which can be found in Hall 12.0. This includes six new companies, which Stuart Whitehill, account director for the Overseas Fairs Division, describes as; “great news for all concerned.”

Companies including Danilo, GB eye, Gibsons, Learnwell, INVICTA and Button Bag will be exhibiting and presenting from the UK Pavilion for the first time.

Stuart continues: “For preschool product, WOW Toys will occupy a prime location on the stand, while Sport and Playbase are back again with their wide range of pretend play mats and children’s carpets for nurseries.”

Other notable companies showing preschool product in the Pavilion include Casdon (role-play toys and play-sets); EDUK 8 Worldwide (educational and play products) and Kit for Kids (educational Inset: The UK Pavilion will host 32 companies this year furniture and equipment). including six newcomers.

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DISCOVER THE PRESCHOOL COLLECTION • London Toy Fair, BTHA Olympia, E10 • Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 5k-26 • Nuremberg International Toy Fair, Hall 3, D36

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WHAT’S NEW NUREMBERG 2017 Products unveiling at this year’s Spielwarenmesse FUNRISE TOYS After the success of the 2016 launch in the US and UK, TONKA Tinys will continue to be a focus moving into spring and autumn with additional vehicle styles packaged in its signature blind box garages. The Tinys line will expand the TONKA play with new mini playsets launching in spring and the larger key drive Rescue Response Station playset for Autumn. The TONKA line is rounded out by an assortment of lights and sounds vehicles within the Minis and Mighty Motorized segments as well as its iconic range of steel vehicles.

Tel: +44 1908 555640 www.funrise.com Hall 12.2/P-21

Nüremberg 1 – 6 Feb 2017 TRAVIS DESIGNS

ORANGE TREE TOYS Orange Tree Toys is launching lots of exciting new products for 2017, including a brand new Puppy Love collection, featuring different breeds of man’s best friend. The range includes additions to all of the classic lines, such as skittles, push alongs, a play set and much more.

Tel: +44 1242 2445004 www.orangetreetoys.com Hall 3/A-15

New Disney baby character outfits for 2017 include Toys Story’s Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear.

Travis loves make believe and are delighted to introduce a new Alice in Wonderland baby dress, as well as a gorgeous Bambi tutu bodysuit, cute Eeyore bodysuit and two new Disney Tutu sets - Tinker Bell and Minnie.

Tel: +44 1442 289898 www.travis.co.uk Hall 3/C49

STOR YVOLUTION Come and visit Yvolution at Nuremberg for plenty of wheeled fun for tots. Check out the new smarter than ever Y Glider range of scooters and the fun, colourful new styles of Strolly trikes on offer.

Tel: +44 800 802 1197 www.Yvolution.com Hall 7/C -11

FIESTA CRAFTS Fiesta Crafts has added to its line of Push N Roll Along toys - perfect for developing walking and crawling.

These colourful, sturdy and beautifully crafted Push N Roll Along toys will now be available in parrot, hedgehog, fire engine and police car styles. All styles come with a detachable wooden rod that inserts easily into the back of the toy. The Push N Roll toy can be rolled or pushed via the wooden rod with an easy to grip ball shaped handle.

Tel: +44 208 8040563 www.fiestacrafts.com Hall 1/B-09

New products and designs in the tableware, drinkware, lunch ranges, are now available featuring character imagery from licenses such as Despicable Me 3, Cars 3, Spider-Man 3, Beauty and the Beast, My Little Pony, Paw Patrol Chase & Skye, Super Hero Girls, Star Wars Episode VIII (available from Q3), Yo Kai Watch, Disney Princess & Frozen along with new signings including Pokemon and PJ Mask yet to be launched.

Tel: +44 1706 838 695 www.storline.es Hall 6.0/A19

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WHAT’S NEW NUREMBERG 2017 Products unveiling at this year’s Spielwarenmesse ORCHARD TOYS Orchard Toys is pleased to be back at Nuremberg for another year, showcasing five new lines as well as its exciting redesign. This includes the evolution of the Orchard Toys logo and a fresh new look for packaging, which will be rolled out on each line throughout 2017. Its new lines include Smelly Wellies, Toys and Alphabet Flashcards.

Tel: +44 1953 423422 www.orchardtoys.com Hall 10.0/H-13

Nüremberg 1 – 6 Feb 2017

RAINBOW DESIGNS Joining Rainbow Designs’ renowned licensed ranges for 2017 will be a beautiful new endearing Elmer for baby collection.

The stimulating range will feature a cute Elmer rattle, a super soft comfort blanket and plush ring rattle, all in the bright colours of the world famous little patchwork elephant. The collection will also include a soft toy Elmer and feature plush Trumpeting Elmer toy.

Tel: +44 1329 227 300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Hall 1/E-22

ZAPF CREATION Zapf Creation is launching a host of new products for Spring 2017 at Nuremberg Toy Fair. With products available for newborn babies onwards, children can learn all about nurturing at every step with a range of fun dolls and accessories from Baby Annabell. Spring 2017 will see a number of exciting new product launches across the Baby Annabell ranges.

Tel: +44 8450 533333 www.zapf-creation.com Hall 12.2/P-O8

24.01.-26.01.17 Stand Gallery 141

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PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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We are delighted to unveil our new brand identity Look for new packaging, refreshed classics, and continued innovation. This exciting relaunch is supported with a robust, integrated marketing plan designed to connect with parents and gift givers.

Marketing Support Celebrity ambassador Parenting media partnership Digital display Social media Direct marketing In-store activation

Contact us today to be part of this exciting new chapter Call 01392 281928 or email UKcustomerservices@tomy.com

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TA LKI N G S H OP Inset: Peter Rabbit was one of the star attractions at Piccola’s 50th birthday celebrations.

50 S R A E Y N U F F O

P

iccola Epping first opened its doors on the morning of England’s victory in the 1966 World Cup Final. The founding partners were Simon’s mother Janet and her sister Carol, both in their twenties and keen to open a shop which sold the very best traditional toys in a way that was interactive, aesthetic and original.

That’s still how Piccola is doing things now, some fifty years later.

One of Britain’s longeststanding children’s shops, Essex-based Piccola stole the show at last year’s Progressive Preschool Awards as the first ever independent store to win the Best Preschool Retail Initiative category, following its 50th birthday celebrations.

PPS spoke to joint owner Simon Wilson to find out more about Piccola’s outstanding story.

Above: Piccola owners Simon Wilson and Janet Marcantonio (3rd and 4th from left) took to the stage with their whole team at the Progressive Preschool Awards 2016. Tomy’s Fred Wolfe (far right) presented the award.

“My mum still works in the business to this very day,” Simon says, proudly.

“She’s been behind the counter most days for the past half-century – working six days a week at the age of 72!”

In that time, the retailer has ridden out recessions, high street competitors, shifts in retail Right: Wooden pull-along lion bead maze from Jumini.

Piccola’s 2017 Predictions “I’ve no doubt that Le Toy Van will have something exciting up their sleeves for Toy Fair, and the brilliant Orange Tree Toys continue to be a leading innovator in preschool products, so I expect big things from them too,” says Simon. “We sometimes get to see some of Fiesta Crafts’ new prototypes before they hit the market, and the 2017 products are going to be an unbelievable new addition to their range. I also saw a new brand called Jumini at Toy Fair last year – we’re going to buy from them this year and I think they could be one to watch.”

demographics and natural disasters (it had to close in 2008 for a month when the ceiling caved in after a flood!) without so much as a trip to the bank manager – which, as Simon points out, is; “an enormous testament to the vision, hard work and business skills of my mum and late aunt.”

Simon bought out his aunt Carol when she decided to retire in 1999, and remained a sleeping partner for almost ten years until he decided to open a second branch of Piccola in Brentwood, Essex, in late 2010. “Thanks to the generosity of the amazing people of Brentwood we’re now as much a part of the community there as the Epping branch is in theirs,” he says.

Talking about the 50th birthday celebrations which won Piccola the Progressive Preschool Award, it is clear that marking the anniversary was important to the closely-knit team. “My mother would have preferred to have  PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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The worldwide leader in multi-level logic games

Award-winning pre-school magnetic construction

Come and see us at: London Toy Fair (Stand F36) Nuremburg Toy Fair (Hall 3A, Stand H05) Spring Fair (Hall 5, Stand H16) Email: uk@smart.be Tel: 01903 885 669 www.smartgames.eu www.smartmax.eu

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TA LKI N G S H OP Inset: Le Toy Van Petilou Noah’s Balancing Ark

Piccola’s 2016 Picks “There have been some exceptional new products this year,” says Simon. “In particular the awesome new garage from Indigo Jamm, the beautiful and exceptionally stylish Petilou range from Le Toy Van and Fiesta Craft’s new extension of their ever popular Squeakaboo range to very stylish Gift Sets with their brilliant new Ringaling teething rattles.”

opened half a bottle of Prosecco and

then carried on with the day as normal,” Simon laughs, “but we felt it was really important to celebrate. Keeping any business alive for 50 years, and still have it thriving, popular and profitable is such a remarkable commercial achievement.”

The celebrations included character visits from Peppa Pig, George Pig and Peter Rabbit, with a weekend-long party offering free ice creams, party bags and balloons for local children. Up against high-profile footfall-driving initiatives from Mamas & Papas, Mothercare, The Entertainer and Selfridges, it was the personal touch and significant individual effort which tipped the balance in Piccola’s favour at the judges’ table.

Below: Founding owners and sisters Janet Marcantonio and Carol Venditti.

“To be honest, we were delighted even to be in the company of the other names on the shortlist,” says Simon. “We certainly didn’t think we had any chance of winning, so it was something of a shock when our name was called! We had all of our staff with us on our table and we just started cheering like we’d scored the winner in the Cup Final!”

In terms of the business itself, Simon explains that while the endorsement of Progressive Preschool is significant, the outpouring of warmth from suppliers and customers has been particularly humbling and touching. “The recognition of our hard work has meant that the team has been walking a lot taller ever since,” he emphasises. “It was a really exciting and hugely prestigious honour in a milestone year for our business.”

So when it’s not holding award-winning birthday parties, how does Piccola ensure that it stands out from the crowd? “With the evolution of the toy shop to supermarket-style stores, often in big retail parks, our aim is to offer something that is completely different to those environments. We want to offer our customers an exciting, colourful and enjoyable experience that makes them feel that Piccola is at the heart of their community,” Simon explains.

“The reason we have been around for fifty years is because we make sure that when people leave Piccola they have had an enjoyable experience, with exceptional customer service and the security that when they buy something from us we will always sort things out if something goes wrong.”

Customer service is clearly very important to Piccola, with the immaculately presented shelves continually being restocked so that they always look full, interesting and

exciting. Product mix is another important consideration, with high quality, educational and traditional toys taking centre stage.

“We try to ensure that all the toys we sell have educational benefits, and our reputation for selling those sort of high quality toys has enabled us to succeed for so long. People come to us because they know they are always going to buy quality from Piccola, and that’s entirely down to the excellence of our suppliers, all of Left: Piccola Brentwood’s traditional 2016 Christmas window display. Middle: Inside the Brentwood branch at Christmas.

Below: Colourful displays offer a wide range of exciting product.

whom share our commitment to setting the bar as high as possible in everything they do.”

“The team also works very hard to ensure the products it carries are not widely available elsewhere.

“We are the only UK stockists of some of the lines we carry,” continues Simon, “ and that’s because we’ve worked really hard to find young companies that are not yet in the mass market.”

Piccola may have reached a very significant milestone in 2016, and done so in style – but Simon acknowledges that the business will only be around in another fifty years if they continue to develop the business in what is currently a fast-changing retail landscape. “So that’s what we’ll do,” he explains. “Our aim in 2017 is to really focus on understanding what social media and the website can do for us as a business. I can’t wait to see what’s in store!”

Left: The original Sophie la Girafe.

Top Of Piccola’s Pops Piccola’s best-selling preschool products – in podium order – are; ■ Original Sophie la Girafe teether, ■ Fiesta Crafts’ Teddies Train, and ■ Fiesta’s Jingly Jungle Bowling.

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S P RI N G FA I R 2017

Picking Perfect

PRODUCT

As the single biggest retail trade show in the UK, Spring Fair is one of the most important buying events in the preschool calendar.

Taking place from Sunday 5 – Thursday 9 February 2017, the show attracts buyers looking to place key orders for the rest of the year. PPS finds out what’s in store...

T

he sheer scale of Spring Fair – 14 sector-specific halls with over 2,500 exhibitors – means that it’s impossible to see everything that’s on offer. Over the course of five days, more than 60,000 visitors will be welcomed through

the doors of Birmingham’s NEC, all looking for the very latest must-have items and hunting out the most exciting trends.

Buyers need to plan their visit carefully, and while the gift and home market means that there is plenty of cross-category appeal, most visitors looking for preschool product will be wise to start their search for new product in Hall 5; Children’s Toys, Gifts and Gadgets. With over 160 exhibitors to choose from, there will Above: The Toys collection of two-piece jigsaws from Orchard Toys. Left: Orange Trees’ ‘Puppy Love’ range includes skittles, push-alongs, play set and more.

www.springfair.com. be plenty of opportunity to marvel at the finest children’s products – from handcrafted traditional toys to high-tech gadgets and gizmos, the hottest trends and those elusive Christmas hits that will make shops buzz with excitement.

According to portfolio director Nick Davison, there are a number of key buying opportunities in the toy sector. “Visitors will benefit from exposure to the newest products on the market as exhibitors reveal their latest range additions at the show. Companies tend to keep their innovations closely guarded until January, meaning that much of what visitors find at Spring Fair will be brand new.”

Nick also identified a key growth area in this section as the children’s gifts and baby and nursery-focused companies. “As gift retailers continue to diversify the ranges they carry, we are seeing a growing trend of baby, toy and nursery products being increasingly stocked in general gift stores, as well as garden PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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S P RI N G FA I R 2017



centres and multiples,” he said.

Unsurprisingly, there will be some fantastic brands at Spring Fair, all making the most of the opportunity to showcase their new lines.

Spring Fair has always been one of the busiest shows of the year for Orange Tree Toys, according to marketing manager Pheobe Goodchild. “It’s the one that everyone goes to in order to get the new products for the year, fresh off the press! We see the show as a great opportunity to showcase our new products, and meet existing and new customers.”

This year, Orange Tree Toys will be showing additions to the muchloved Peter Rabbit Collection, with puzzles, musical instruments and a play set. “We’ve Right: The cuddly tumms from The Puppet Company are soft glove puppets which are as cuddly as a soft toy. Below: This gears and cogs ‘Busy Bee Learning’ toy is from Le Toy Van’s Petilou collection.

also added new products to the wooden food range, with our new Takeaway collection, which includes an Indian Takeaway and a Chinese Takeaway,” said Pheobe. Doglovers will also be inpressed with the brand new ‘Puppy Love’ range; an entire toy collection dedicated to different breeds of dogs!

“As our biggest show of the year, Spring Fair has always been extremely beneficial for the year ahead,” commented Pheobe. “There appears to be a move towards more sustainable products and the share in the market for wooden toys is growing, so we hope to

Inset: The interactive football table from Clementoni.

get feedback and orders for our new lines, as well as draw in new businesses.”

Toy brand Clementoni will be placing a strong focus on the infant market at Spring Fair, demonstrating its growing portfolio across the key sector. Following the success of the key Baby Clementoni lines in 2016, a highlight for Spring Fair will be the new 2-in-1 Interactive Football Table – a talking educational toy which teaches children letters, numbers, shapes and colours, but also recognises and communicates each goal scored with the child.

Another highlight – ‘Doc’ – will give children their first experience of using animatronics. The educational robot is programmed to enable the very young to engage with the technology and experience it in its most simplistic form.

As a first-time exhibitor at Spring Fair, Skip Hop is particularly excited about showing retailers and buyers what the company – which launches around 240 new products each year – is all about. “Since starting out in the UK we have learned that there is a tremendous consumer appetite for Skip Hop products,” said UK country manager Jon Tilley, “and it’s now just a case of fulfilling that appetite! It is our priority to ensure that consumers have access

to our products through a wide range of national and independent retailers, both online and instore.”

On show at Spring Fair will be the famous Zoo collection, which features an adorable array of Zoo characters across a mind-bogglingly wide array of product, and is a huge hit with toddlers and parents alike.

“We will be showcasing our award-winning product range

Great For Gifts “Spring Fair is great for us as it has such a wide audience,” commented Orchard Toy’s marketing assistant Chloe Lamb.

“It gives us the opportunity to see those not only from the toy industry but also other sectors such as the gift market, where we continue to expand our presence. For us, the show is all about seeing our customers (both new and existing), helping them as much as we can and – of course – presenting them with the new range for 2017!”

Orchard Toys is launching five new lines at the show: Smelly Wellies, a funny matching game, a collection of six two-piece jigsaws and alphabet flashcards, which are perfect for conscientious parents and fun for children aged three and upwards.

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Puep Co pet mp any Ltd ÂŽ .

We are a UK based Design & Wholesale company supplying over 1000 high quality puppets of all shapes and sizes! Have a puppet - Have fun!

www.thepuppetcompany.com Tel: +44 (0) 1462 446040 Retail Website: www.puppetsbypost.com The Puppet Company - Progressive Preschool - May issue.indd 10 00_PPS_January_February 2017.indd 1

12/22/2016 11:33:31 AM 24/12/2016 17:20

S P RI N G FA I R 2017 Left: Cars 3 plush from Posh Paws, ahead of the movie release next year.

Licensed Lines “Spring Fair is a hugely important show for Posh Paws as it attracts buyers and retailers from outside the mass market, such as independent and online toy shops, as well as garden centers, gift and greetings retailers,” explained group brand manager Lauren Shipman. “Plush is a great gift purchase for kids and so the show is a natural fit for us.”

Posh Paws will be showcasing a number of new preschool lines, including all the new collections for the very latest Disney Junior shows such as Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Minnie’s Happy Helpers and Elena of Avalor. “On the movie front our Cars 3 plush is bound to be a hit with a young audience,” said Lauren, “and we also have some great new bags featuring core preschool brands such as the Teletubbies, Care Bears and Sesame St.”



and getting the industry excited about new product launches we have coming up in the next year,” continued Jon. “We also hope to create relationships within the industry and expand our distribution in the independent sector.”

Of course, returning exhibitors are equally excited about this year’s show, as Peter Lockey, director at The Puppet Company, can attest. “The Spring Fair is always our best show,” he explained, “with lots of regular customers and new clients in attendance. It has become more international over the years, with buyers coming from all over Europe, which is great for us.”

New preschool lines which will be at the show include the ‘cuddly tumms’, soft glove puppets which are as cuddly as a soft toy but with all the interactivity of a puppet.

“These animal puppets have been in development for almost a year, and we are delighted with the new collection,” Peter said.

“Our aim at the show is always the same – to listen to the comments of our current customers and to make new contacts. With our retro ‘Wilberry’ soft toy brand as well, we should have something for everyone!”

The team at Le Toy Van is similarly enthusiastic about Spring Fair. “For us, it offers the opportunity to meet different type of buyers and connect with new business owners,” explained marketing and product development manager Marie Bureau.

Le Toy Van will be showcasing six brand new preschool products

for toddlers and preschoolers; four lines in the now iconic and bestselling Petilou toddler collection, one in the Arks collection and one in the Pirate collection. “We are very excited about these new preschool lines as making the move into the under-three market has been very positive and rewarding for us so far,” said Marie. “With the success of our toddler collection throughout 2016, we hope to meet more buyers from the preschool sector for a partnership in 2017.”

Above: The Skip Hop Zoo collection backpacks, lunchboxes, straw bottles, bibs, utensils, rolling luggage cases, storage bins, tableware sets and much more

So whether you are an independent toy specialist or a category buyer for a multiple, you’re bound to find something that meets your requirements – whatever you are looking for and however you choose to tackle Spring Fair. Just make sure you embrace your inner child and have fun!

The Bathtime Boom Toy company Tobar is always thrilled to unveil what it has in store for the year ahead, according to ceo David Mordecai, who cites his priorities as presenting the new range to current customers, pursuing new accounts and gathering feedback on new products.

“We’re predicting that bath time toys will be a big hit in 2017,” said David. “We’ve tapped in to the trends of consumers finding interesting new ways to keep little ones entertained during bath time.”

A broad collection of preschool lines will be on display, including Dolphin Bath Buddy and Flower Shower – both designed to keep little ones entertained in the tub, with special functions to create fun water effects.

Left: Tobar’s dolphin Bath Buddy keeps little ones entertained.

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WHAT’S NEW SPRING FAIR 2017 What’s new at this year’s Spring Fair.

ORANGE TREE TOYS Orange Tree Toys is launching lots of exciting new products for 2017, including additions to the Peter Rabbit collection, and the wooden food range. There is a brand new Puppy Love collection, including all of the classic lines, such as skittles, push alongs, a play set and much more.

Tel: 01242 2445004 www.orangetreetoys.com Hall 5 Stand E22 - F23

ENESCO Enesco has partnered with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity to create three bespoke Peter Rabbit soft toys, including a limited edition of which only five hundred are being produced. For every product sold, a donation will be made to the charity.

The Beatrix Potter Peter Rabbit collection will be on show on Enesco’s stand at Spring Fair.

Tel: 01228 404022 www.enesco.co.uk Hall 4 Stand H80–J81

PMS INTERNATIONAL Gosh! Designs, the home of licensed brands at PMS International, is excited to be unveiling new licences as part of a move to have a dedicated licensed presence at the show.

Adventure and play are key themes as it launches a creative collection from The Gruffalo. The collection includes a wide range of products across indoor and outdoor play, for little explorers and fans of the publishing phenomenon.

Tel: 01268 505050 www.pmsinternational.com Hall 5 Stand H90 / J91

PYRAMID INTERNATIONAL

TRAVIS DESIGNS Travis Designs will be featuring the top selling ride on styles. These fun beautifully made costumes are the perfect addition to any dressing up box. The full range of DUBD will be on show including princesses, fairies, boys, babies, animals and accessories, as well as our Disney baby range.

Tel: 01442 289898 www.travis.co.uk Hall 5 Stand K64

Pyramid has acquired the licenses and developed ranges for some of the biggest preschool properties around. These include the amazingly popular Paw Patrol, long term children’s favourite Peppa Pig and the classic and beloved My Little Pony. These expertly designed ranges include posters and wall art plus, depending on the license, an assortment of other associated merchandise.

Tel: 0116 284 3645 www.pyramidinternational.com Hall 4 Stand E70-F71

HTI TOYS Teamsterz, HTI’s own extensive range of collectable die-cast vehicles, garages and playsets, light and sound vehicles and track sets, has almost 50% new and over 20% refreshed lines on the starting grid for 2017. The brand will be supported by a multiplatform marketing campaign for 2017 to build the brand and boost awareness with consumers, including a new consumer website.

Tel: 01253 775684 www.htigroup.co.uk Hall 5 Stand E100-F101

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So they sent me some...

WE’RE A T TOY FAI R STAND !

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MillyandFlynn @MillyandFlynn MillyandFlynn DEAR ZOO © Rod Campbell 2015.

Licensing by Metrostar Media Ltd.

Come and see our award-winning Puzzles and Toys at Toy Fair - Stand B115

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sales@millyandflynn.com www.millyandflynn.com

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WHAT’S NEW SPRING FAIR 2017 What’s new at this year’s Spring Fair.

RAINBOW DESIGNS

HALILIT Taf Toys new Easier Parenting baby toys will be unveiled at Spring Fair 2017. The new collection sees a range of gorgeous new toys from the pram Mini Mobile Moon to the enchanting Garden Spiral.

Halilit will feature additional new musical, sensory, role play and bathtime toys from Battat and Edushape.

Tel: 01254 872454 www.halilit.co.uk Hall 5 Stand L57

Joining Rainbow Designs’ ever-popular My First Thomas collection this spring will be a set of fun attachable jiggle toys.

The number one engine will be joined by his friends James, the red engine and Percy, the green engine. Rainbow will also unveil fantastic new products in the timeless Paddington for baby collection, including an attachable jitter toy, a gorgeous plush stacking toy and a feature plush activity Paddington for baby.

Tel: 01329 227 300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Hall 5 Stand G18-H19

ORCHARD TOYS Orchard Toys is excited to announce the launch of an exciting new range of games and jigsaws, which will be showcased at Spring Fair. Its fun new game Cheeky Monkeys is set to be one of the highlights, as it predicts this will be a strong seller in gifts for 2017.

Alongside these two lines, Orchard Toys will also be launching first jigsaw puzzle toys, quirky matching game Smelly Wellies, and its new Alphabet Flashcards.

Tel: 01953 423422 www.orchardtoys.com Hall 5 Stand K65

SUNCREST TRACTOR TED

FIESTA CRAFTS Fiesta Crafts has created an activity box that encourages imaginations to run wild. The magnetic activity box allows children to create unlimited pictures on the blackboard or whiteboard. Each box contains chunky, colourful, and entertaining magnetic pieces that children can use to create their masterpieces. There are two types of boxes –shapes activity box and faces activity box.

Tel: 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk Hall 5 Stand L10-M11

Tractor Ted, the award-winning children’s real life farming brand is thrilled to be launching a gorgeous new pocket money range perfect for children up to six years old.

Endorsed by some of the UK’s favourite celebrities including Ben Fogle and Clare Balding, the Tractor Ted range includes books, DVDs, gifts, toys, apparel and homeware.

Tel: 01373 834500 www.tractorted.co.uk Hall 5 Stand G52

Suncrest’s new ragdoll range will be exclusively previewed at Spring Fair in February.

The initial launch will consist of three beautifully designed ragdolls, each evoking a treasured Gorjuss artwork. Forget Me Not, I Love You Little Rabbit and Ruby are a unique girls’ collection featuring pretty colours and charming details, encouraging hours of role play and allowing children to make friends for life with their own special gorjuss girl.

Tel: 0116 2328800 www.suncresttrading.com Hall 5 Stand L21

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05/01/2017 13:10

WHAT’S NEW SPRING FAIR 2017 What’s new at this year’s Spring Fair.

PAUL LAMOND GAMES Games and puzzles specialist, Paul Lamond Games will be showcasing over 30 new lines this year including products from some exciting new licenses.

Following the premiere of the beautifully animated children’s classic; We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at Christmas, Paul Lamond will be launching a brand new range of games and puzzles featuring the new illustrations from the TV animated production.

Tel: 020 72540100 www.paul-lamond.com Hall 5 Stand E04 – F03

POWELL CRAFT

AMSCAN

Powell Craft has some lovely new ranges to show you for spring/ summer including its stunning bumble bee embroidered knitwear lines which include blankets, cardigans and jumpsuits, a perfect unisex range. In the bug family we also have girls rompers with complimenting hats, plus rag dolls with appliqued ladybirds and bees.

Tel: 01273 622023 www.powellcraft.co.uk Hall 6 Stand G01

Wholesalers and retailers can look forward to seeing an exciting showcase of Amscan’s latest ranges across the party, balloon and costume categories available for 2017. Amscan has expanded its dress up offering with the addition of some adorable new baby costumes including Waddles the penguin, elephant Sweetie and Junior giraffe. Also look out for Amscan costumes appearing on the catwalk in Hall 3.

Tel: 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk Hall 3 Stand A10-C11

POSH PAWS In line with the Disney Junior release of the all new preschool TV show Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Posh Paws will be launching a fantastic new plush collection to support the show for 2017. The range will include all key characters in its shiny new racing outfits and soft toys coincide perfectly with the shows target audience.

Tel: 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Hall 5 Stand F80 – G91

SKIP HOP Skip Hop is extremely excited to be exhibiting at Spring Fair for the first time. Showcasing industry award winning products and new innovations, the Skip Hop stand is not one to be missed. Showcasing toddler essentials including the infamous Skip Hop Zoo collection, the Skip Hop team will be on hand to introduce you to its product range and the variety of instore display options it has available.

Tel: 01582 43425 www.skiphop.com Hall 5 Stand L37

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STROLLER S A N D P U S H CH A I R S

Today’s pushchairs and strollers come in a mind-boggling range of styles, features, colour and of course, price. As the cliché goes, there is something for everyone; PPS takes a look at what’s going to be hitting the pavements in 2017.

Inset: The new SpotTech from Bébécar combines the compact folding of a stroller with the comfort of a pushchair.

F

or most parents, the pushchair is the most researched piece of baby kit they will buy. There is such a wide range of options to consider: comfort, convenience, style, durability, size, weight and price. There are the all-singing and all-dancing travel systems, traditional old-fashioned prams, and strollers that fold down to a backpack – and everything in between!

Silver Cross is a name synonymous with prams and pushchairs so it’s no wonder that this British company continues to push the boundaries when it comes to

Stroll WITH IT

innovation and style. “The launch of the new Silver Cross Wave at Kind + Jugend was a particular highlight for 2016,” says Phil Taylor, design director, Silver Cross.

“Beautiful design meets innovation with the Wave. It provides newborns with the very best in comfort and protection, but it’s also future-proofed for growing families. The innovative One plus One connection system allows parents to switch seamlessly between 16 carrycot, pushchair and car seat configurations to transport one child, two siblings or twins.”

Left: Different colour packs mean parents can customise the Britax Affinity 2 to suit their style.

The Silver Cross Pioneer travel system continues to be one of the most popular products for the company as Phil comments: “It ticks all the boxes with its capability in city and country. It has bigger wheels with a lightweight carrycot, chassis and seat unit, plus a big basket, offering parents everything they are looking for. We’ve done extremely well with our special edition colourways – the Eton Grey and Henley have been hugely successful.”

Travel systems are also selling well for Joolz, with the award-winning Geo its most popular product. This is down to the design and adaptability according to Kerry Anderson, account and marketing project manager UK for Joolz. “The Joolz Geo is cleverly and ergonomically designed, to maximise 

New Model Army Look out this year for two brand new travel systems from Tutti Bambini. The Arlo is a compact travel system with full size features. At just under 10kg the forward and reverse facing seat folds in half but is one of the biggest seats in its class, designed for baby’s complete comfort. With an optional carry cot and new

ByGO ISOfix car seat (as well as being compatible with leading car seat brands), it really has it all.

The Koji is a full-size micro travel system for parents on the go, or for those who prefer a smaller pushchair. It offers a forward and rear facing, comfortable seat which folds into a super compact frame.

Right: The new Arlo from Tutti Bambini is a compact travel system weighing just 10kg.

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STROLLER S A N D P U S H CH A I R S Left: The iCandy Peach is the most popular model. Below middle: When folded, the

Omnio can be carried on an adult’s back.

An awardwinning year 2016 was a successful year for iCandy by anyone’s standards. The British company became the first pushchair brand to win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise - the UK’s most prestigious award for business performance. iCandy also put in a strong performance at the various 2016 nursery industry awards, taking home the top prize in the Junior Design Awards, along with recognition from Red Dot Design, and Smallish Magazine. The Peach is the most popular model for iCandy and is a popular choice for various celebs. 2017 promises to be yet another exciting year, with the brand new iCandy Orange coming.

 comfort for baby and ease of use for

Mum and Dad. The Geo can be adapted into a mono, duo and twin and has won a number of awards including two ‘best buy’ awards from Which? recently.”

In terms of trends, Kerry says: “The colour grey is proving to be hugely popular for wheeled goods. So we have

expanded our offering to incorporate stylish grey tones in every collection.

Leatherette handlebars have also made an appearance throughout the industry.

We’re proud to have been the first to introduce this iconic look. However, we continue to innovate by introducing new styles to the product offering such as ridge and double stitch.”

There’s no doubt that good design and style plays an important part in decision making and many consumers like to choose something that is a little bit different to what others have. “With our Britax Affinity 2, parents have the option to select from four different colours for the base model and multiple colour pack options, enabling them to change their pushchair’s look to reflect their lifestyle”, says Bengi Bingol Yalcin, UK marketing manager, Britax. “We feel this is down to the combination of style and ease of use, which led to Which? awarding it as a ‘Best Buy’.”

For customers wanting something completely different, the Mima Xari has been creating quite a buzz on social media. The Xari pushchair is a futuristic looking pushchair with a wealth of innovative features, the most clever being the collapsible carrycot that’s contained within the pod of the buggy seat unit itself.

Below left: The futuristic-looking Mima Xari in rose gold. Middle: Bébécar Stylo Class is a stylish traditional pram.

Right: The Ickle Bubba Aurora

can take the Galaxy 0+ car seat.

Simon Russell, managing director of Cheeky Rascals, who distributes Mima products in the UK, says: “It has been a fantastic year for Mima.

We have continued our strong focus on the independent trade and we’ve been delighted to see good sales growth. We were especially delighted to see the official launch of the Mima Xari pushchair in London’s ultimate department store, Harrods. With a highly sought after dedicated POS presence, it was a huge achievement for us and we’re thrilled that the brand will now be a permanent fixture in the store’s nursery department.

As one of the first brands to launch a rose gold chassis, it was very gratifying to be ahead of this year’s must-have trend. There is a lot more to look forward to in 2017 including a brand new product launch in the second half of the year so watch this space.”

Although many consumers opt for a travel system, or at least a pushchair that is suitable from birth through to the toddler years, some still look for a traditional pram. Kevin Golding, director of Bébécar UK comments: “Our Stylo Class combination remains a very popular choice among consumers, proving that the traditional style of pram remains a firm favourite. Build quality and the choice of luxurious fabrics play an important part, but ultimately the consumer recognises that this pram will transport baby comfortably and securely.”

Bébécar UK continues to grow year on year and recently launched the SpotTech, which combines the compact 

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STROLLER S A N D P U S H CH A I R S Left: The Rachel Zoe x Quinny Moodd.

Style Queen Style is a big factor in the purchase decision for many customers who want a pushchair that will turn heads in the street. The Moodd is one such pushchair from Quinny, as Nikki Bhogal, head of marketing at Dorel explains: “The iconic Moodd has a premium look and feel as well as intelligent features including quick automatic unfolding and easy folding. It’s suitable from birth and gives baby a comfortable and stylish ride. We’re very excited about a super-premium limited edition Quinny Moodd with celebrity stylist and designer Rachel Zoe arriving in spring!”

 folding of a lightweight stroller with the

comfort of a luxury pram. “The SpotTech has added another dimension to our range; a complete travel system for use from birth with a full-size carrycot, and the pushchair seat that will see the baby through to toddler stage, yet the chassis folds small enough to fit in the boot of a Fiat 500,” says Kevin.

For many parents a compact stroller is an absolute must-have for busy lifestyles. Over the past few

years strollers have become more and more compact, now with more options available than the traditional umbrella-fold. One such stroller making headways is the Ickle Bubba Aurora.

Built with travel in mind, it is suitable for parents who prefer a lightweight pushchair and modern style without Below: The Wave is the latest luxury offering from Silver Cross. Below right: Leatherette handle bars are proving popular for the Joolz Geo.

compromising on safety and quality.

When folded, it fits into its own shoulder carry bag and is ideal for everyday use and more adventurous travel.

Fran Vaughan, managing director, Ickle Bubba comments: “In 2016 we continued to gain top industry awards and favourable reviews and this has led to more distribution through online retailers such as Mothercare and Argos as well as nursery independents to build our UK coverage. We also spotted the opportunity for launching a new lightweight travel system by adding our Galaxy 0+ car seat to the Aurora for a perfect combination of style and function that offers exceptional value for money.”

Another stroller designed for parents who love to travel is the Omnio which won an Innovation Award at Kind + Jugend last year. The Omnio has a compact fold and when closed, the child harness doubles-up to act as a full backpack harness for an adult to wear. Hippy Chick is the distribution partner in the UK and Kelly Linthorne, marketing and sales administrator says: “We will officially be launching Omnio at Harrogate. When it has been presented at previous shows it has gained a lot of attention and we cannot wait to hear first-hand what our customers think of the product.”

The market for pushchairs and strollers continues to be busy, with new products coming along every year.

Parents are spoilt for choice with just about every conceivable need catered for. Whether it’s a state-of-the-art buggy or something just to get from A to B, the industry has everything covered.

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The easiest, thinnest & lightest full-size folding travel cot

www.hippychick.com 01278 434440

01692 408802 nursery@east-coast.co.uk www.eastcoastnursery.co.uk

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WHAT’S NEW STROLLERS & PUSHCHAIRS Strollers & Pushchairs Q1 sector update ICANDY

BABYSTYLE The latest in a long line of products from BabyStyle is the Hybrid. It has one chassis offering three stroller options with clever and simple axle changes. As a single stroller it is compact and user friendly, in City mode it uses the smaller rear wheels and narrower axle, while in Edge mode the larger rear wheels on a wider axle are added offering more flexibility and the ability to quickly add an additional seat unit or carrycot to become a supremely stylish tandem.

Tel: 01509 817 662 www.hybridstroller.com

JOIE The new Chrome DLX combines all the best features available in a multi-mode pushchair. With a parent or forward facing seat unit included, options to add the iGemm i-Size infant car seat, Gemm 0+ infant seat, or Chrome DLX carrycot, it offers total versatility for parents leading a busy lifestyle.

It features an instant gravity fold that is easily activated with or without the seat attached and in either direction, ensuring ease of use in every mode.

Tel: 01889 808900 www.joiebaby.com

HIPPYCHICK Hippychick is delighted to be the UK distributor of Omnio. The Omnio Stroller is the first in a range of innovative, user-centred products from the Omnio brand. With its compact fold, the Omnio has a big heart – carrying children up to 22kg whilst the unique wearable design enables parents to push on with an active family lifestyle. The revolutionary omni-wheels provide super agile steering, taking multiple terrains in its stride. Due to Omnio’s crowdfunding origins there is a real buzz about the launch of this product this month.

Tel: 01278 434440 www.hippychick.com

Unveiled for the very first time to a select audience at K&J, the futuristic new iCandy Orange arrives in 2017, and brings revolutionary features to an iCandy pushchair whilst still echoing the recognisable iCandy DNA seen throughout the range.

Key to the design of the Orange is its longevity, adapting into a double travel system. Also, for the first time iCandy have added an integrated ride on board to the pushchair’s frame – a feature sure to surprise and delight parents with babies who have an older sibling.

Tel: 01767 604400 www.icandyworld.com

DOREL

JOOLZ After years of consumer research, prototyping and product development, Joolz is excited to announce that its first and very successful pushchair has been completely redesigned. The Joolz Day2 has 20 new and improved positive design features, making it a pushchair like no other. This new benchmark is not just designed in The Netherlands, it is also produced there. Taking another step towards a more positive and sustainable way of living.

Tel: +31 20 630 4887 www.my-joolz.co.uk

In 2016 Dorel launched the new Maxi-Cosi Stella pushchair. It has some great features such as a narrow frame, all terrain wheels and a selection of great colours to choose from, including a stylish, limited edition design. It also has two great pushchair launches coming up mid-2017 for Maxi-Cosi to look out for.

Tel: 0208 236 7307 www.dorel.co.uk

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ANNIVERSARY

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WHAT’S NEW STROLLERS & PUSHCHAIRS Strollers & Pushchairs Q1 sector update RUK-BUG

O BABY

After six years in development Ruk-bug has finally arrived, giving parents and retailers a solution with all the safety, convenience and portability needs they could ever need. A truly unique product, the go confidently, go easily, go anywhere, Ruk-bug is coming to Harrogate this March and will be available in stores by the summer.

Tel: 07854 991353 www.ruk-bug.com

With its three level adjustable suspension, a full lie back, memory foam seat unit, height adjustable handle, UPF 50+ protection and group 0+ infant car seat, it’s no surprise that the ABC Design Mamba Plus won gold for Best Travel System in the M&B Awards 2017.

Tel: 01652 641491 www.obaby.co.uk

GB

CHICCO

The new gb QBIT+, the bigger brother of the Progressive Preschool award winning gb POCKIT, is a dream come true for parents. Weighing just over 7kg the stroller features a one-hand fold, adjustable leg support and a lie flat position suitable from birth – offering all the benefits of a full-size stroller, while remaining lightweight, compact and excellent value for money.

Tel: 0207 426939 www.gb-online.com

BÉBÉCAR

This year will see the arrival of the super compact stroller, MiniiMo. It is the smallest and most manoeuvrable stroller within the range and is suitable for children from birth, with a fully reclining backrest and adjustable leg rest to adapt to the child as they grow.

Foldable and designed with style, MiniiMo is a perfect combination of practicality and flair.

Tel: 0208 9536627 www.chicco.co.uk

The new fabric range from Bébécar is coming soon, with the classic choices you’d expect and some amazing, eye-catching additions too. In its Prive collection, there are woven textures, glossy patents, blooming florals and beautiful sparkles.

Tel: 01692 408801 www.bébécar.co.uk

BUGABOO Freedom and movement have always been at the core of Bugaboo designs and now they’ve inspired its latest limited edition – The Bugaboo Cameleon³ Kite. Nothing says freedom like a kite — gliding through the air, going wherever the wind takes it and the unique geometric print on the lining of this stroller is based directly on the instantly familiar kite shape.

Tel: 01491 524151 www.Bugaboo.com

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COLU MN I ST

THE INFO IS… WHERE? CATHY’S AND Knowing what to buy when expecting a baby is not a hot topic of discussion among the younger COLUMN generally generation. Taking a look at the market from the perspective of someone with no prior knowledge can throw up some confusing points, as Cathy found.

Cathy Bryan has been part of the nursery industry for the last 28 years. You can sign up for Cathy’s free newsletters at www.nursery-online.com.

“

Those of you who regularly read my scribblings will know I’m not a great fan of review sites, as they often tell you more about the reviewer than the product. Errors are rarely rectified – only a few sites allow a supplier to correct a mistake.

Which brings us to the retailer websites. Recently I’ve done some nosing around on Group 0+ car seats, and I’ve been dismayed by what I’ve found.

Y

oung lads and lasses talk knowingly about the newest features on dream cars they can’t afford or the technical specs on the latest iThing, but – unsurprisingly – no-one talks wistfully about what pushchair they would like to buy! When the time comes, these prospective parents start their ‘big ticket’ baby shopping knowing next to nothing.

So where do they get their information? Sales figures suggest that only a few are getting it from magazines they have gone to a shop and bought, while fewer still are getting it from a retailer they have taken the time to visit. More likely, they are simply getting it from the internet.

But where on the internet?

Essentially, there are three main places a search engine might direct new parents towards; magazinelike websites, consumer opinion/ review sites or blogs and the retailers websites themselves.

Magazine-like websites often run articles on how to choose a particular item for the nursery. Sites like Buying4baby.info or Babycentre. co.uk all give excellent advice on what prospective parents should be looking for.

Above: It’s nice and roomy, but will it fit on the bus? Right: “Are we doing this right?”

A typical webpage will show a list of possible car seats with a little information about each car seat.

A picture, the name of the product and the price is the usual. Since the price of a group 0+ seat can vary from £35 to over £300 and there can be over a hundred shown, how does our potential shopper proceed?

Often there are filters, but how useful are they at reducing the number of products you need to look at in detail? By eliminating certain brands? Our young shopper has no idea at this stage as to whether they should buy Britax, BeSafe or something else.

Filter by price? Do they eliminate the cheapest (“only the best is good enough for my baby!”) or the most expensive (“mustn’t waste my money!”). They don’t yet know why some are so much pricier than others.

Even when you click for the product’s description, the differences between the various car seats are not immediately obvious. Somewhere in the blurb it might say there is a head hugger included. Maybe it will say side impact protection – without any further explanation as to what that means and why it is so important.

What’s the real difference between ‘removable and washable covers’ and ‘washable covers’?

One ‘extra’ that can make a big difference to the price is the base.

Some car seats are not designed to be used with a base – but this information can often only be determined by the absence of any mention of a base. Sometimes what appears to be an apparently high price of the car seat looks that way purely because the base is included. Sometimes the car seat can be used with a base which needs to be purchased separately – although only very rarely is there a link given to the correct base, so again the parents-to-be have to embark upon another search.

I’m sure faced with all this, our shopper will often end up plumping for the same one as their friend, the one with the glowing review or the one which comes in a nice print. Only rarely will they buy the best one for their family.

I’ve written specifically about baby car seats here, but the same problem often applies to many other product categories. It’s important to note that I’m not blaming retailers especially here – even the supplier websites themselves can be just as empty of information and equally confusing.

Many of our customers are desperate to buy the right things. Can we really not help them more?”

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TAL K I N G TO. . . H I PPYC H I C K

One of the nursery industry’s biggest and most respected distributors was set up 18 years ago with just one aim in mind – to make parents’ lives easier. PPS spoke to founders Julia and Jeremy Minchin to find out more about what makes Hippychick tick.

Inset: Hippychick’s inaugural product the Hipseat is still a best-seller.

Practical PARENTING T

hese days, Julia Minchin would be called a ‘mumpreneur’ – the new go-to term for a successful entrepreneur and business owner who also happens to be a mother.

In truth though, the phrase could have been invented for Julia, who ticks all the necessary boxes; initially running a modest business from the kitchen table while simultaneously looking after her young children.

“I had always wanted to run my own business,” explained Julia, who now runs the company with the help of her husband Julian, “and after having my first child I saw a gap in the market for simple products that provided practical solutions to parenting problems.”

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Left: Julia and Jeremy Minchin, Hippychick co-founders.

The business – which focuses on supplying the independent nursery trade – started in 1999 and soon flourished, becoming one of the most well-known brands in the nursery industry thanks to the couple’s hard work and determination.

The first product Hippychick bought to market was the Hipseat, a back supporting belt with integral seat for carrying babies and toddlers without putting a strain on the parent’s

The Personal Touch “We have enthusiastic key account, independent retailer and marketing teams working with our customers at all times,” said Julia. “We take a big stand at Harrogate as we recognise that this is crucial to be able to cement those relationships.

We don’t just send out blanket emails; we take a more personal and flexible approach so we can meet individual needs.”

With a dedicated sales force on the road, Hippychick is able to benefit from constant direct contact with retailers, gaining constant feedback and reacting accordingly.

The company is also very active on social media, at retail shows and with its Hippychick Baby Club, listening to end-consumers and asking for feedback at all times – particularly when considering new products.

“We keep customer service for both the retailers and end consumers in mind throughout every aspect of the business.”

Above: Trade shows such as Harrogate International Nursery Fair offer the perfect opportunity to connect with retailers.

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TA LKI N G TO... H I P PYCH I CK Left: The award-winning Litecup combines clever design with innovation. Below middle: Hippychick makes the move into wheeled goods with the Omnio.

Clever Cup Created by inventor Gavin Reay, Litecup is an ingenious product which combines a night light with an all-round sippy drinking cup.

Hippychick has seen a fantastic uplift in sales since Little Litecup won the PPS innovation award in 2015 and Gold at the 2017 Mother & Baby Awards for Innovation of the Year.

back. It’s the reason for the company name itself and is still a top-seller today, sitting alongside other products and exclusive distribution partnerships which clearly reflect the company’s core vision of making parents’ lives easier.

“We continue to source and provide simple solutions to common problems,” said Julia. “Our core product range is for the newborn to fouryears-old age group and everything we do is geared towards meeting the needs of those parents.”

It is this continued dedication which ensures Hippychick remains competitive in such a crowded market and as such it comes as no surprise that the company is regularly approached by those looking for distribution for their own parenting inventions.

Below: The all-new SpaceCot is lighter and collapses smaller than other travel cots.

“When taking on new product we believe design and innovation are imperative,” Julia explained, “and we will never compromise on quality.

Parenting trends are key and we need to stay very much on top of them, but as we all know they come and go, so the focus at Hippychick always remains on innovation, design and quality as well products that genuinely make life easier for parents, such as the new swimming aid Aquaplane which helps children learn to swim.”

Many of Hippychick’s most popular products – Litecup, Totseat, Sock Ons, Buggy Lights – are examples of brilliantly designed products that stand out from their counterparts, while two of the company’s newest additions, SpaceCot and Omnio, are widely considered to be the most innovative products in their respective sectors.

“We are very excited to be moving into bigger ticket items, stepping out of purely accessories and into the hardware, cots and wheeled goods areas,” said Julia. “Before now we just hadn’t found the right products and we are so delighted to have been highlighted as the chosen UK distributors of both SpaceCot and Omnio.”

Both of these products provide solutions to some of the more common problems encountered when travelling with young children and infants.

SpaceCot simplifies the opening and folding of a travel cot, is lighter and collapses smaller than most other travel cots, making it ideal for simple storage. The groundbreaking Omnio Stroller is the first in a range

of innovative, user-centred products from the Omnio brand. With a compact fold and unique wearable design, it allows parents to ‘push on’ with an active family lifestyle.

The revolutionary omni-wheels provide super agile steering, taking multiple terrains in its stride.

“Thanks to Omnio’s crowdfunding origins there is a real buzz about the launch of this product,” said Julia. “It will be our first step into the buggy market and we are really excited about what this new direction will mean for Hippychick.”

Growth is set to be a key feature of 2017 for Hippychick, as it looks forward to exploring new product sectors and focusing on a number of its other key lines such as Bumkins and Nattou, which both saw fantastic growth throughout 2016. “We will also be looking to move into bigger premises,” said Julia. “So watch this space!”

Below: Jeremy Minchin dancing with the Singing Children of Africa in 2016.

Giving Back Each year, Hippychick supports a different charity, raising funds and driving awareness wherever possible.

“We have always wanted to give something back, and to make a difference, however small, wherever we can,” explained Julia. “It will always be a big focus for us.”

This year, the company was introduced to Educate the Kids, a Mombasa-based charity who help build schools and provide education.

“One of our team-members, Jake Pike, volunteers for this charity and arranged for the children to come and visit us while on their singing tour of the UK,” said Julia. “It touched everyone’s hearts and we will continue to raise as much as we can for these fantastic children.”

Previously, Hippychick has worked with both local and international charities and has raised in excess of £50,000 for charities such as Make a Wish, Children’s Hospice South West and New Life Mexico.

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Brecrest_Layout 1 14/12/2016 10:52 Page 1

Welcome To Brecrest Importers & Distributors of Babywear & Childrenswear Fashionable children's clothing from birth to toddlers is our speciality and we are a leading supplier to many distributors and high street stores throughout the UK and Europe.

Brecrest garments are created by our own team of British designers, influenced by global fashion trends offering a "British" feel to each quality collection.

Zip Zap

See us at INDX AW17

Tel: 0161 828 8730

www.brecrest.co.uk

MuslinZ

Quality Muslin Products Premium Quality Muslin Squares Wraps and Bibs Designed in the UK For more information please contact us MerryGoRoundUK Tel 01295 810008 Brightbots Ad 70x110_Layout 1 05/07/2016 Email info@merrygorounduk.co.uk

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MuslinZ Muslin Z

from MerryGoRoundUK Owner of the Muslinz andAvailable Brightbots brands

Quality Muslin Products Premium Quality Muslin Squares Wraps and Bibs Designed in the UK

07/01/2017 15:17

Free Free Free Free

Entry Refreshments Lunch On-Site Parking

I N DX KI DSWEA R 2017

Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre, Solihull, B90 4LF T: 0121 683 1415 16190 Indx Kids Half page Progessive Jan Ad.indd 1

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ENSEMBLE IN SOLIHULL

T

he event, which offers a uniquely informal and professional buying environment, has been expertly brought together to meet the ever-changing and diverse requirements of today’s kidswear retailers.

The show, taking place at Cranmore Park in Solihull, has been carefuly created to meet the particular needs of independent childrenswear buyers – giving them a professional, stressfree and relaxed buying experience.

Buyers will be able to explore a unique show with a warm welcome, in an environment that perfectly blends the creativity of kids’ fashion and trends with the importance of doing business.

Visitors to the show will be able to discover a broad range of products, many of which are exclusive to

ADDED EXTRAS Regular visitors love INDX’s friendly environment and find it an enjoyable show experience.

With free parking, and their unusually renowned free lunch, it’s not just great business, but a relaxed day out, too.

INDX, along with a whole host of new brand launches. For example, INDX is proud to be the only UK kidswear exhibition to be hosting Losan, Lelli Kelly Clothing, Blue Seven, Bea Cadillac and Fluffy Flamingo. The event also contains many industry award-winning brands such as Kite Clothing, Isoki, Lilly and Sid, Snuglo, Chamomile Baby, Toby Tiger, Blade and Rose, Emile et Rose, Frugi and Piccalilly.

The show also features collections from established brands including

A.Dee, Best Years, Dandelion Clothing, Kris x Kids, Hatley, Pigeon, Little Green Radicals, and Powell Craft. Returning European names includes, Mayoral, iDO by Mini Conf, Sarabanda, and Tartaleta.

INDX Kidswear has always offered a large and comprehensive christening and occasionwear range and 2017 is set to be no different. The dedicated team

INDX KIDSWEAR AW17 FACT FILE Free show admission – independent retail only. Free parking, show guide, and lunch.

Cranmore Park is easily accessible by car and public transport.

Register online via the INDX website www.indxshow.co.uk.

Sunday 12 February 2017 9:00am - 6:00pm Monday 13 February 2017 9:00am - 5:00pm

of independent experts whic organise the show is delighted to welcome back some of the longest-standing supporters, such as Peppermint Phoenix, Pretty Originals, Next generation, Premier Designs, and Sevva.

Taking a lead role in the specialist team organising INDX Kidswear is Varsha Chohan, show coordinator, who told PPS; “We’re particularly excited about the next event, which looks set to be the very best to date. We have more exhibitors, a quality-focused list of pre-registered attendees, and an overall feeling in the sector that INDX really is the show to be at if you’re in the business of kidswear retailing.”

Frugi’s marketing director Francesca Martin is quick to agree, telling PPE; “INDX Kidswear is well organised and the atmosphere for both exhibitors and visitors is brilliant. The food is also great!”

Industry stalwart Toby Powell, owner at Powell Craft, agreed. “I have exhibited at over 50 shows in 14 countries in 20 years, and the INDX Kidswear approach is beyond refreshing!”

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Free Free Free Free

Entry Refreshments Lunch On-Site Parking

WHAT’S NEW INDX KIDSWEAR AW 2017 Products exhibiting at this year’s INDX Kidswear AW 2017 MERRYGOROUND

Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre, Solihull, B90 4LF T: 0121 683 1415 16190 Indx Kids Half page Progessive Jan Ad.indd 1

The new MuslinZ luxury unbleached bamboo organic cotton muslin squares and dribble bibs are a perfect match with the Wooly organic baby toys making a fabulous gift range. The Wooly range includes comforters, teethers, hooded towels and soft toys which are organic, soft and safe for baby gifting and baby showers.

Tel: 01295 810008 www.merrygorounduk.com

POWELL CRAFT

MINOTI

Powell Craft will be showcasing its new spring/summer lines for babies and little ones including babygrows and jumpsuits, pretty vintageinspired dresses with matching hats and frilly knickers, cotton nightwear for boys and girls in its signature prints, knitwear with fun motifs, cheery raincoats and umbrellas for drizzly days and new designs joining the ragdoll family.

Tel: 01273 622023 www.powellcraft.co.uk

Minoti offers ranges including Babaluno which caters for newborn babies through to two years old.

This range offers everyday style, whilst still being confortable for baby. It has something to match every style and personality focusing on the latest trends, best fabrics and style and also providing high fashion at affordable prices.

Tel: 0161 728 5566 www.minoti.com

KITE Kite is celebrating life through the eyes of little people and taking a closer look at their dreams and ambitions. Astronaut? Dancer?

Mountain climber? All of these aspirations and more have been poured into its brand new autumn/ winter 2017 collection, created around clean colours, fun-filled imagery and on-trend styles.

Tel: 01202 733222 www.kite-clothing.co.uk

NATURES PUREST Introducing a natural range of toys, beautifully packaged gifts and clothing from Natures Purest. Suitable from birth, the new Woodland Friends range uses its signature organically grown, naturally coloured cotton with highlights of zesty orange.

Products certified by GOTS, OekoTex-100 and Garments Without Guilt - the ethical company that cares.

Tel: 0116 2792901 www.naturespurest.co.uk

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Secret for a good night sleep

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WA LKER S A N D B OU N CER S

IT’S PLAYTIME

Baby Bouncers and walkers keep babies active and busy, while also helping with important developmental milestones.

Technology now plays an important role in product development for this category, with bouncers that mimic human rhythms and baby walkers that double up as activity centres. PPS straps itself in to find out more.

A

bouncer is a great way to keep baby occupied and can be easily moved from one room to another, offering baby a gently rocking or bouncing motion. There are a huge range of bouncers on the market, from very simple manual models (that require mum or dad to provide the motion) to sophisticated

Inset: The Light N’ Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker from Little Tikes is a walker, a standing activity table and sitting play centre. Below: Summer Infant’s Pop N’ Jump folds up for easy storage and transport.

products that can change height and motion.

One of the breakthrough products in recent years has been the mamaRoo from 4moms, an infant seat that replicates parents’ natural motions.

Laura Slattery, head of product and design for Kooltrade, the UK distributors for 4moms, comments: “Parents love that there are so many options for soothing their babies, with five unique motion patterns and variable speeds plus a reclining seat. It’s designed to move just like you do. When 4moms began making its baby products, the nursery industry hadn’t genuinely embraced incorporating digital or robotic technology into the core functions of infant goods. We’ve since noticed a trend for multi-motion over more traditional swings and rockers.”

Above: The mamaRoo from 4moms is a state-of-the-art bouncer which mimics a parent’s natural motion. Left: New from Skip Hop is the Uplift Multi-Level Baby Bouncer, which can be adjusted to any level.

Portable Play Summer Infant’s successful POP range includes the Pop N’ Jump activity centre and bouncer. Its compact, lightweight-folding frame sets up in seconds, offering the ultimate in versatility. The jumping feature and toys keep baby active, entertained and happy for longer.

 PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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Lil’ Ocean Explorers™ Infant preschool toys encourage and celebrate active gross motor play at every primary physical milestone during a baby’s first 18 months. Our brand new range will help parents to encourage and reward each reach, crawl and step.

15+ ways to play

More than

20

rewarding sounds and tunes

Our NEW range for Autumn 2015

Heavyweight media campaign including TV

9

exciting toys in the range

Imaginations In Motion™ Call us: 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk

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Email us: Little.Tikes@zapf-creation.co.uk MGA Entertainment UK Ltd, 50 Presley Way, Crownhill, Milton Keynes, MK8 0ES

07/01/2017 15:13

WA LKER S A N D B OU N CER S Left: Laugh & Learn Puppy’s Activity Jumperoo is new in 2017 from Fisher-Price.

Jump Around Created over 12 years ago, the FisherPrice Jumperoo is an iconic musthave baby product which allows baby to play and learn while developing key skills including gross motor skills, hand-to-eye co-ordination and balance.

New for 2017 is the Laugh & Learn Puppy’s Activity Jumperoo. The new model has two modes of play, with a musical mode and early learning mode with songs, animal sounds and first words in English, Spanish, Italian and Russian. For every move, bounce and jump, baby is rewarded by music, lights and sounds. The seat rotates 360°, letting baby explore the light up toy bar which introduces colours, numbers and shapes.

Right: The First Steps Baby Walker is a best-seller for VTech Baby.

Another company incorporating technology in the baby bouncer is Skip Hop, with its new Uplift Multi-Level Baby Bouncer. “We took the classic baby bouncer and gave it a much-needed lift,” says Gemma Stokes, UK marketing executive for Skip Hop UK. “Designed to naturally integrate baby into family moments, the Uplift Multi-Level Baby Bouncer starts as a traditional floor bouncer and can be elevated to sofa height – or any level in between – with the turn of a knob. With a neutral colour palette and beautifully streamlined look to fit into any contemporary home, it features vibration, sounds, and a range of other baby-friendly benefits.”

Some bouncers offer additional functions, such as the 360° Dreamer Rocker from East Cast Nursery. If baby falls asleep, the clever folding seat allows parents to gently lower them into a safer flat position. “The 360° Dreamer Rocker has had a great year, winning two awards and performing fantastically in a Facebook campaign and competition,” says Victoria



Taylor, brand manager for East Coast Nursery. “There seem to be several sub-categories within baby bouncers and they remain quite clearly defined.

The bright, play-focused products; the style-driven ones that aim to fit into home décor; and those that offer additional functions, like the 360° Dreamer Rocker.”

Most babies take their first steps behind some sort of baby walker. Helping develop strength, balance and coordination, a baby walker gives a young tot some much-needed confidence when learning to walk. Parents have a lot of choice when it comes to choosing a baby walker, from a traditional wooden trolley to a buzzing activity centre.

VTech has over 30 years’ experience in educational products and its First Steps Baby Walker has been the best-selling product in the VTech Baby range for many years. “The VTech First Steps Baby Walker is a bright and fun support for little ones taking their very first steps into the world,” says Charlotte Drake, senior brand manager for VTech Baby. “This fantastic 2-in-1 walker and activity centre has textured wheels, easy grip handle and durable design. The fun-filled activity

Left: The 3-in-1 Senso Walk and Drive Discovery Car from Infantino BKids is now available in the UK.

panel can be removed from the walker for extra sit-down play. With lots of exciting activities, cheerful music and friendly phrases, little ones will be introduced to numbers, shapes, animals and colours.”

A new range of walkers and other sensory toys comes from Infantino BKids.

Launching at Toy Fair this January, the Sensory collection includes toys that will educate, excite and entice babies and toddlers. “Gone are the days of the one-dimensional walker; the three-in-one, action-packed Walk and Drive Discovery Car will make little explorers’ eyes shine as the colourful textures, buttons, lights and sounds spark curiosity,” says Gary Wood, UK country manager at Infantino Bkids.

“Following the encouraging comments from retailers who attended the Sensory preview in Hong Kong, we know it will be a hugely popular collection for us.”

Little Tikes has also recently entered the baby walker market with its Light N’ Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker and it has been positively welcomed by retailers and customers according to Victoria Starr, brand manager UK for Little Tikes.

“Consumers look for products with a variety of functions and longevity and our Light N’ Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker fulfils exactly that. It can be a walker, a standing activity table and also turn into a sit and play activity centre. The walker’s projected lights encourages baby to take their first steps and have endless amounts of fun as they grow with this interactive toy.”

As with much of the nursery sector, technology continues to play an important part in product development. While not all consumers will want baby bouncers and walkers with all the bells and whistles, for those that do, there are plenty of truly innovative options out there.

Left: East Coast Nursery’s 360° Dreamer Rocker can be adjusted so that it lies flat.

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NUREMBERG TOY FAIR HALL 3 STAND E06

www.manhattantoy.com Email: infoeurope@manhattantoy.com Tel: +44 (0) 208 944 3160

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WHAT’S NEW WALKERS AND BOUNCERS What’s new in the walkers and bouncers product sector SKIP HOP One product Skip Hop is particularly excited to shout about is its new Uplift multi-level baby bouncer. It has taken the classic baby bouncer and given it a much-needed lift. Designed to naturally integrate baby into family moments, the Skip Hop Uplift multilevel baby bouncer starts as a traditional floor bouncer and can be elevated to sofa height—or any level in between—with the turn of a knob. With a neutral colour palette and beautifully streamlined look to fit into any contemporary home, it features vibration, sounds, and a range of other baby-friendly benefits.

Tel: 01582 434250 www.skiphop.com

BABABING

RED KITE BABY

Bababing’s awards winning Lobo2 baby bouncer is a unique baby bouncer that soothes baby through the bouncers unique leaf sprink design. The two position backrest is an exciting new feature. It is perfct for newborns to lay back and be soothed by its smooth bouncing motion, or the back rest can be easily adjusted into a more upright position for feeding and playtime, where they can be entertiained by the monster toys.

Tel: 01535 606871 www.bababing.com

The Baby Go Round Jive designed to engage and entertain includes an electronic activity tray that has been; and the removable tray allows baby to play with their own toys too. This brilliant walker features a 3 height adjustable frame to allow baby to grow alongside the product. Safety is paramount at Red Kite and the walker has been developed with the extra deep padded seat for full back support and comfort.

Tel: 01454 326 555 www.redkitebaby.co.uk

KOOLTRADE Oribel’s portaplay bouncing activity center has a rotating seat and features detachable ontrend woodland toys developed specifically to encourage fine motor and cognitive skills without electronics. It folds extremely compact for storage and once baby has outgrown the seat, converts into a little play table for extended use.

Tel: 0161 335 2500 www.kooltrade.co.uk

LITTLE TIKES Little Tikes has recently entered the baby walker market with its Light N’ Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker and it has been positively welcomed by retailers and customers. It can be a walker, a standing activity table and also turn in to a sit and play activity centre. The walker’s projected lights encourages baby to take their first steps and have endless amounts of fun as they grow with this interactive toy.

Tel: 01908 268480 www.littletikes.co.uk

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The Gro Company, with parents every sleep of the way

Over 16 years of experience as a trusted sleep brand Grobag is the UK’s leading baby sleep bag brand The only baby sleep bag recommended by The Lullaby Trust Winner of 50 awards for Grobag including 28 Golds Order our SS17 collection now /TheGroCompany

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@theGroCompany

trade.gro.co.uk

+44 (0) 1392 347 111

07/01/2017 15:15

S LEEP I N G

Hush, Little Baby A fundamental human need, sleep is essential for both babies and parents – yet it’s also something which both struggle with in the early years. PPS investigates the latest advice on sleeping, safety and the products which are here to help.

T

hings have changed a great deal since the 1970s, when parents were told to leave their babies to cry themselves to sleep in a pram at the bottom of the garden. In 2017, parenting advice couldn’t be more different; a whole industry is based upon securing that elusive ‘good night’s sleep’.

Safer sleeping is also a big concern for parents, although clear best-practise guidelines mean that rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have reduced dramatically in recent years.

However, cuts being made to health visitor services mean that parents are relying more on retailers and products to give them the right information.

It is therefore essential that the nursery industry is giving parents the right information. Leading authority on safer sleep is charity The Lullaby Trust, which educates parents on how

Safer Sleep Week Taking place from the 13 – 19 March 2017, Safer Sleep Week is The Lullaby Trust’s national awareness campaign targeting anyone looking after a young baby. Approximately five babies die each week in the UK from SIDs, making it one of the leading causes of death of infants under one.

“With over 700,000 new births in the UK every year, it is vitally important that we get our life-saving messages and advice to these families,” said corporate fundraising manager Miriam Moody. Nursery partners The Gro Company, Kiddy and Moba help to spread the message but also financially support the charity, helping it fund vital work.

Visit www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safersleep-week for more information.

to reduce the chance of SIDS. The Gro Company has been working closely with The Lullaby Trust for the last 16 years – it has raised £900,000 in that time – and in doing so has made a positive difference to the lives of thousands of families across the UK. “Every parent wants to do their best for their child and this includes helping them to sleep well and safely,” said Rob Pascoe, Gro’s group commercial director.

“As babies grow their sleep patterns and habits change, so we try to offer the best solution for young children and their parents through those changes.”

The unique endorsement from The Lullaby Trust is important to The Gro Company, which was first started over 16 years ago by two sleep-deprived parents and has now grown into a global brand renowned for quality and innovation.

Rob emphasises the importance of keeping on top of all the latest developments to ensure the customer has the best product possible. “It’s such

Left: The Tell Me a Story nightlight from Infantino Bkids.

an innovative area, with everything from new health information to great new fabric technologies,” he said. “Our customers trust that we know those developments and that we will be applying our knowledge of the sleep market to our product range.”

One of the most popular ways for parents to reassure themselves is by using a high-tech monitor.

Angelcare monitors come with a sensor pad which helps to alleviate some of those late-night worries.

“Our brand has an emotional connection with parents,” said Kate Cartwright, Hardenberg’s marketing manager, “and we are proud to be able to help parents on this key issue.”

“Parents are always looking for more innovation,” Kate continued, “and for more information from their monitors.

The new range of

Inset: A full range of The Lullaby Trust-approved product from The Gro Company includes the bestselling Grobag.

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S LEEP I N G

 Angelcare monitors comes complete with analytics and reporting features so we can help parents understand more about their child’s sleeping patterns and help them ensure the best possible night’s sleep!”

New and innovative technology and clever features will always help alleviate parents’ sleep-related concerns, even when the issue is lack of sleep rather than safety. Sleep experts reliably cite the importance of a good bedtime routine, but that’s often not enough – and that’s when parents turn to products which promise to help baby sleep for longer.

“The sleep category has really developed over recent years in terms of the choice of products available and continued innovation,” said Joe Grey, Summer Infant’s marketing consultant. “Many sleep products, such as night lights, are now being firmly positioned as an essential. Parents are happy to invest in products that help create consistent bedtime routines.”

Summer Infant is particularly active in the sleep category, and carries a wide range of products, from swaddles and comforters to light/sound projectors and digital video monitors.

“Sleep products provide year-round sales opportunities for retailers,” continued Joe, “and there is real potential to maximise sales opportunities by crossselling complimentary sleep products, like our new ‘Bath to Bed’ range which

focuses on the emotional benefits of creating a consistent bedtime routine.”

Also a keen advocate of the importance of creating a dedicated routine is Pabobo, with communication manager Emilie Ruben pointing out that that there really are two main difficulties for parents: “Bedtime and night-time. And sometimes the two are combined!”

To address this, Emilie explains that creating a sleep routine is a key element to reassure children at bedtime – but consistency can be just as important in the early hours. “To be efficient, the ritual has to be the same every day. Our ambient light and sound projectors have various settings for the projections, light intensity, music and sound volume,” added Emilie.

“And there is also an optional ‘baby cry sensor’ that automatically turns on for those night-time wake ups!”

Left: Ardega’s award-winning Whisbear.

Inset: Relaxing Calm Ocean ambiance projector, from Pabobo, is ideal for soothing children at bedtime.*

Above The SwaddleMe Wrapsack from Summer Infant is perfect for babies who are rolling but still enjoy the security of a swaddle. * Left Hardenberg’s new range of monitors (such as the Angelcare AC517) feature the award-winning sensor pad.

With parents losing up to 44 days of sleep during their baby’s first year, a good night’s sleep might be essential for a child’s health, but it’s also essential for the well-being of the entire family.

Luckily the nursery sleep market is wellequipped to help, with all types of sleep aids continuing to grow in popularity.

Time to catch some much-needed Zzzzs!

Need A Hero?

The Gro Company: The Grobag has changed the way parents put their babies to bed, with 95% now using a baby sleep bag.

Hardenberg: The new Angelcare AC517 features a wireless sensor pad, analytics and reporting as well as a new larger screen and sleekerlooking technology.

Summer Infant: The awardwinning Slumber Buddies are ideal for soothing little ones to sleep, with multi-colour displays and calming sounds.

Ardega: Social media hit Whisbear has won a number of awards, including the Kind + Jugend Innovation Award 2016.

Infantino Bkids: The Tell Me a Story Bedside Lamp connects a Bluetooth speaker to any mobile device, perfect for favourite bedtime stories.

Pabobo: The Stars Projector has preset scenarios which use different projections, light intensity, music and sound volume to help create the ideal sleep programme.

* These product shots are for marketing purposes only and should not be used as a guide in any way.

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The Home of Classic Toys The Home of Classic Toys

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The Toy Fair, E120 The Toy Fair, E120 Nuremberg Hall 1 Stand E-22 Nuremberg Hall 1 Stand E-22 Spring Fair, Stand 5G18-H19 Hall 5 Spring Fair, Stand 5G18-H19 Hall 5

Come and see our exciting new Come and see our exciting new brands and collections brands and collections

Call 01329 227300 or visit our website www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Call 01329 227300 or visit our website www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk 00_PPS_January_February 2017.indd 1

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WHAT’S NEW SLEEPING What’s new in the infant sleeping products sector THE GRO COMPANY The Gro Company SS17 collection taps into the trend for design-led nursery decor. Iconic designer Orla Kiely has created new and unique prints for Grobag, sure to appeal to the stylish parent. For those who prefer bold colour blocks the ‘Pocketful’ collection features fun designs to bring a touch of sunshine to any nursery.

Tel: 01392 347111 www.gro.co.uk

HARDENBERG & CO.

CHEEKY RASCALS

For SS17 Hardenberg & Co has a range of new monitors launching which show real innovation. Based upon the award-winning Sensor Pad which is featured in Angelcare’s Video, Sound & Movement monitors, Angelcare has gone one step further and is introducing a new, revolutionary, wireless sensor pad, plus lots of new features too.

Tel: 01785 503305 www.hardenbergco.co.uk

The pioneering Swaddle UP is the only arms UP swaddle on the market. This warm and snuggly sleepsuit enables little ones to sleep comfortably in the natural sleep position with their arms UP. The unique wings design means babies can still self soothe themselves to sleep, such as sucking on their hands safely through the Swaddle UP breathable fabric or gently rubbing their cheeks.

Tel: 01730 895761 www.cheekyrascals.co.uk

PABOBO LumiBlo is a magical night light as it turns on and off with a simple blow.

Perfect to reassure children at bedtime and to help them find their way in the dark, it’s also useful for parents to watch over their kids, or feed their babies during the night.

Lumiblo’s handle is practical to grab the night light, or clip it anywhere, on bed, on the parent’s belt or even on a door.

UK - www.cleverclogstrading.co.uk Freephone: 0800 0518080 Ireland - www.cleverclogs.ie Tel: +353 1 828 4823

HIPPYCHICK The traditional travel cot has been redesigned with space technologies – making it lighter, quicker and easier to use. SpaceCot can be folded in under three seconds and its strong and stylish design was inspired by the way satellites unfurl 30,000 miles above earth. It folds down into a neat and compact shape, easy to store in the house or car boot.

Tel: 01278 434440 www.hippychick.com

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WHAT’S NEW GENERAL New products for the preschool market.

SKIP HOP

BIBETTA

Skip Hop is thrilled to announce that its bath range is expanding with the arrival of two unique Moby themed bath toy organisers. With a space-saving corner design, the Moby corner bath toy organiser adheres firmly to tile or glass and helps keeps toys organised.

The Moby bath toy scoop is a colourful tub toy holder which lets you scoop bath toys right from the water and hang them up to drain.

Bibetta, the innovative baby accessories design company, famous for its neoprene washable products, has launched a new innovative star-shaped changing mat, as part of their new line of new launches. The Star Changing Mat is the ideal travel accessory and is the latest addition to the Bibetta changing mat range. Designed to allow baby to stretch out whilst being changed, the thick, cushioned neoprene feels warm and soft for little ones to lie on making for a more relaxing change for both baby and parent.

Tel: 01582 434250 www.skiphop.com

SMARTRIKE The new 5 in 1 Recliner smarTrike, suitable from ten months to three years, features five unique stages.

Cleverly transforming from a reclining seat ideal for naps on the go, to stroller mode where children can sit upright and discover the world around them, a guided trike to encourage the feel of independence, through to a training trike and a classic independent trike once the time is right.

Tel: 01223 840236 www.bibetta.com

Tel: 01525 722769 www.smarttrike.com

Suncrest are looking for experienced Sales Agents for the UK and Ireland, we are an established business with huge opportunities for growth!

Come and say hello, Hall 5 - Stand 5L21

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WHAT’S

HOT?

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

Conrad Parrott, co-founder, Adorable Tots, Rochdale

The new 15,000 sq ft showroom has one of the largest displays of nursery products in the UK CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Furniture

Romina

Romina is one of our best-selling brands.

It’s made from hardwood and is on the pricey side, but the build quality is amazing and the range tremendous.

Pushchairs

BabyStyle Egg and Cybex

The Egg has had such a strong year, but we’re also doing very well with the Cybex

by Jeremy Scott. It’s not available in many places, so people do travel from all over to our showroom.

Car seats

Kiddy

We have seen an increase in demand for the Evoluna i-Size and Evo-lunafix, both of which allow a baby to lie flat in the car seat.

Kids’ furniture

Boori, Kidsmill, Life Time

We’ve been able to expand our range of themed room sets for children and we source from many suppliers.

BabyStyle

Kiddy

Jack Minshaw, head, Uber Kids, Wrexham

Uber Kids is both an online and store-based nursery business with a 11,000 sq ft showroom CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Furniture

Saplings, Chicco

We are seeing an increase in sales for room sets and cot beds, especially the Kirsty cot bed by Saplings. The Chicco Next to me crib is also a favourite.

Pushchairs

Out N About, Babystyle

Outdoor specialist terrain pushchairs sell very well for us especially Out N About. Egg by Babystyle has been a leading best seller for us as we see more demand for premium brands such as iCandy and Babyzen.

Monitors

BT, Babymoov

The BT 300 and video monitor 1030 have been great sellers for us. The Babymoov touch screen monitor is also another good seller.

Nursery Essentials

Close, Baby Bjorn

We have seen an increase in sales with Close reusable nappies and baby carriers, especially the Caboo + organic and Caboo NCT. The Baby Bjorn balance soft bouncer continues to be a number one purchase by our customers.

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Egg by Babystyle

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WH AT’S H OT

Bhav Patel, owner, Toy Galaxy, London

Four toy shops in and around London; Barnet, Witney, Harrow and Ealing CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Newborn

Fisher-Price and Tomy

The Fisher-Price Jumperoos are always really popular, especially the jungle design. Tomy’s Starlight Dreamshow is very popular as well, it’s a classic product at a great price.

Wooden Toys

Melissa & Doug

It’s such a prominent brand name in the wooden toy space, it always does well. The shape sorter, abacus and pullalongs are our best-sellers.

Puzzles

Ravensburger, Jumbo and Clementoni

Puzzles are the perfect gift to give people you don’t know very well so they are very popular at Christmas. Characters are important, with PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig and Go Jetters doing well.

Role-Play

Peterkin

Classic role-play product like doctors kits and tool boxes make popular gifts; we carry a few, but Peterkin always does well.

Construction

Magformers

Tomy

Peterkin Magformers

Lego Duplo and Mega Bloks always do well, but Magformers has been doing really well for us, especially the ‘My First’ set. Construction is definitely growing as a sector.

Nigel Price, co-owner, Playfull, Bristol

A toy shop on Gloucester Road in Bristol’s famous independent shopping district CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Wooden toys

Pintoy

The digger from Pintoy is very popular with children and parents. It’s got a good working mechanism, so you can actually pick things up with the front scoop.

Baby toys

Grimm’s

Grimm’s make beautiful wooden toys.

The 12-piece rainbow was really popular for Christmas. It was one of the ‘musthave’ toys after a blogger mentioned it.

We sold out immediately.

Games

Peaceable Kingdom

A lovely range of co-operative games where children work together against the game, not each other. We stock quite a wide range across all ages.

Gifting

Belle & Boo

This is a local company to us, so we do a lot with them. It’s a very popular brand and we sell lots of cards, china, stickers and room accessories.

Art and Crafts

Eggnog

Another local company; its giant colourin tablecloths always sell well. We sold out of the Christmas tablecloth.

Pintoy

Grimm’s

Peaceable Kingdom PROGRES SIVE PRESCHOOL

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RAV_BRIO_PracpreSchool_FullPage_Jan2017_FINAL.pdf

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Spring Fair Hall 5, L14 30398

30399

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30265

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DISCOVER Fun jigsaws for ages 18months+ Chunky puzzle pieces Ideal size for small hands

06904 Farmyard Friends My First Puzzles, 9x2pc 06903 Mothers & Babies Shaped Puzzles, 6x2pc

Developed for ages 18months+ Fun and colourful images

For BRIO and Ravensburger

sales@ravensburger.com Sales HOTLINE 01869 363800

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