CWB101 Schoolwear Buyer

SCHOOLWEAR BUYER: THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION FROM THE SCHOOLWEAR INDUSTRY

51: News

60: Schoolwear Association Update Now in its 10th year, the SA has become the voice of its industry. CWB provides a run-down of the Association’s current agenda, including the formation of new executive teams and the launch of guidelines for schools to clarify specifying and sourcing uniform.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 49

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Schoolwear NEWS: The latest news from the schoolwear industry.

BRENDA’S BRANCHES OUT Camberley independent Brenda’s Schoolwear has opened a school shoe shop.

Located opposite Brenda’s Schoolwear, Shoes 4 School offers popular core styles, all with leather uppers, the majority of which are priced between £20-30. “School footwear is quite a niche market that’s underserved at certain price points,” says Brenda’s Schoolwear partner, Steve Optix. “Over the last couple of years, as we’ve taken on more schools, our retail space for add-ons has dramatically reduced, hindering our footwear sales.”

Shoes 4 School also stocks a more premium footwear range from Pod as well as trainers, wellingtons, plimsolls, ballet shoes, socks, tights, bags and accessories.

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GOLDEN FINISHES HIRES SALES DIRECTOR Golden Finishes (GF), a UK manufacturer and finisher of embroidered and printed badges, pennants and associated products, has appointed Jeremy Aston-Phillips as sales director. AstonPhillips joins GF from a long career in the embroidered garment sector, having held the position of sales director at Blue Max Banner for over 10 years.

Working directly with GF’s CEO John Sheppard, Aston-Phillips will be responsible for delivering GF’s overall business strategy, overseeing sales, marketing and operations.

“Jeremy joins GF at a point where we have now streamlined the operations and processes within the company to ensure we are ready for the growth ahead,” says Sheppard. “As well as his knowledge in garment distribution and operations, Jeremy has a background in IT and engineering, which will be an asset to GF for the future.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF

ROWLINSON STRENGTHENS TEAM

Rowlinson Knitwear has confirmed the boardlevel appointment of Neil Ward as commercial director.

Ward, who has more than 10 years of senior management experience within the retail and commercial banking sector, was most recently area director, business banking West and South Yorkshire, at HSBC. “Neil’s significant commercial acumen is matched by his values, energy and exemplary ethics,” says Rowlinson MD Donald Moore. “We became employee owned in 2015 to move closer to achieving our goal of being a great business to work with, and for. Neil will be instrumental in helping us to realise this ambition.”

“Rowlinson Knitwear is a successful, resilient company with passionate people and a qualitydriven, ethical culture,” adds Ward. “Future growth is important to the business, but its reputation for caring deeply about customers and its employees is paramount.”

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Entry to the Best Schoolwear Store category of the CWB Independent Retail Awards 2016 is open until 30 September. Applying is free, quick and easy: simply visit www.cwb-online.co.uk, opt for the Best Schoolwear Store Award category, and enter your details.

Store images need to be sent to CWBRetailAwards@ras-publishing. com.

DAVID LUKE SPONSORS CWB AWARD David Luke is the official sponsor of the Best Schoolwear Store category in the CWB Independent Retail Awards 2016. Introduced this year, sponsorship packages include digital and print advertising and branding throughout the Awards campaign.

“We are pleased to be sponsoring the Best Schoolwear Store Award, which gives those forward thinking and proactive retailers a chance to shout about their achievements and to show how, and why, they are such a vital part of the supply chain in the schoolwear industry,” says David Luke MD Kathryn Shuttleworth.

“David Luke’s sponsorship of the Best Schoolwear Store award category reaffirms its continued support and investment into the schoolwear industry,” adds CWB editor Laura Turner.

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BMB ACQUIRE SWI Blue Max Banner (BMB) has acquired SWI Schoolwear, a deal which completed on 1 July.

Renowned for its sportswear portfolio designed collaboratively with athletes and students, SWI will enable BMB to further extend its reach into the sportswear market. SWI also generates around 30 per cent of its product sales through retail partnerships, supporting BMB’s strategy to grow its offering in this space.

“The market continues to change and we need to ensure we adapt and move the business forward through product innovation,” says BMB’s chief executive, Nigel Plenderleith. “To achieve this, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the needs of the end-user along with a multi-channel reach.”

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Back to the 80s is the theme of this year’s annual Schoolwear Association (SA) fundraising evening. Taking place on Sunday 9 October, after the first day of The Schoolwear Show, the evening will be held at The Village Hotel, Solihull and includes a three-course dinner. For further information and tickets, which are £50 per head, contact Marie Bradburn on mariebradburn@ talktalk.net.

Discount supermarkets Aldi and Lidl kick-started this year’s Back to School price wars, each releasing full school uniforms for less than £4. Both the chains’ Back to School packages comprise two polo shirts, a sweater, and trousers or pleated skirt, with Aldi charging £3.69 and Lidl £3.75 at time of going to print.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 51

MARTON MILLS CO LTD British Weavers of Quality Fabric

Marton Mills, Pool Mills, Pool in Wharfedale, Otley, West Yorkshire, England. LS21 1TA Tel: +44(0) 113 284 3364 (UK Local rate 0845 090 8121) Fax: +44(0) 113 284 3044 Our email: enquiries@martonmills.co.uk

A brilliant twist on a classic junior girls skirt.

Demand is already high for the NEW junior day skort.

• Brilliant practical alternative, with the look of a skirt • Seamlessly linked, neatly tailored shorts behind the skirt front panel • Comfortable and modest • Girls can continue to have great fun being as active as they want to be • Available in ages 2/3 up to 11/12, and available in grey from stock

DAVID

LUKE

Call: 0161 272 7474 Or visit: www.davidluke.com for further information & images.

Durability in mind. Ethics at heart.

OLS – O H C S O. US STIGIO BEST WILL D E R P FOR LY THE N O N WHE

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Glasgow. G33 4DJ. ie d c le ffi p e cou ial result mmerc erfect both co to ensure p ve Tel: 0141 774 0387 Mob: 07422 516162 Email: mail@prestigeschoolwear.co.uk Autocla

STOP PRESS!

Few stands still available!

THE SCHOOLWEAR SHOW 9 - 11 OCTOBER 2016 CRANMORE PARK, SOLIHULL THE UK’S ONLY NATIONAL SCHOOLWEAR SHOW PLAYS HOST TO BRITAIN’S LEADING SCHOOLWEAR SUPPLIERS. >>>

1880 CLUB STAND 3

Amaya will be showing a full range of equipment to cater for all your garment decoration requirements.

Tel.02392 590281 Email: sales@amayauk.com www.amayauk.com

BALMORAL KNITWEAR STAND 14A

BLUE MAX BANNER STAND 44/50A

High quality school knitwear in Wool-Acrylic, TPA 100% Acrylic, Cotton-Acrylic and Wool-Nylon.

Stock styles with embroidery; bespoke styles 24+.

Pullovers, cardigans, hats & scarves – UK & off-shore manufacture.

Tel: 01900 829 229 Email: info@balmoralsales.co.uk www.balmoralknitwear.co.uk

BMB is showcasing its extensive range of high quality stock supported and bespoke daywear and sportswear ranges including UK manufactured sublimated teamwear.

Tel: 0333 7000 888 Email: sales@bluemaxbanner.co.uk www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk

CANDY BOWS STAND 46

CARTASPORT.MASITA STAND 17

Cartasport: UK made, skortz, skirts, ath. briefs, gym knickers, lycra shorts, special design football socks. Cricket & rugby clothing.

Masita: Tracksuits, rain jackets, football jerseys/ shorts, polo & T-shirts, Bags.

Tel: 01535 600342 Email: sales@cartasport.com www.cartasport.com

CHARLES KIRK STAND 32

CHADWICK TEXTILES LTD STAND 12

“Brand quality” performance teamsport garments, a fully coordinated stock range.

Meeting the growing demand for high quality functional sportswear in the education sector – “fit for purpose” – talk to the experts.

Tel: 01619272565 Email: sales@chadwicktextiles.co.uk www.chadwicktextiles.co.uk

DENBY DALE CLOTHING STAND 4 Specialists in sourcing and manufacturing of a wide range of bespoke uniform items, both in the UK and offshore.

Tel: 01226 738 390 Email: sales@denbydaleclothing.co.uk www.denbydaleclothing.co.uk

TOTTO FROM BRAND AGILITY LTD q

BLUE MAX BANNER q CARTASPORT.MASITA DAVID LUKE q

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1880 CLUB q CANDY BOWS q

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Fabulous vibrant colours and unique prints.

Totto schoolbags are more than capable of standing up to the rough and tumble of the playground.

Tel: 0131 554 5555 Email: george.sandison@brandagility.co.uk www.adventureavenue.co.uk/brands/totto

AWDIS ACADEMY AND PENCARRIE q

Supplier of school uniform you can rely on in every sense. Service, quality, durability & ethics.

A true supporter of the Independent market.

Tel: 0161 272 7474 Email: sales@davidluke.com www.davidluke.com

CHARLES KIRK q

BALMORAL KNITWEAR

TOTTO FROM BRAND AGILITY LTD STAND 30

DAVID LUKE STAND 49

AMAYA SALES UK q

We are proud to be one of the few suppliers that still manufacture, supply, embroider and print, stock and specialised knitwear, sweatshirts and accessories in GB. Tel: 01903 244863 Email: sales@charleskirk.co.uk www.charleskirk.co.uk

For the best in class school wear, look no further than the AWDis Academy range from PenCarrie – new for 2016.

Tel: 0800 252 248 Email: sales@pencarrie.com www.pencarrie.com

CHADWICK TEXTILES LTDq

Candy Bows supplies high quality ‘made to match’ School Hair Accessories utilising grosgrain and gingham ribbon and school uniform fabrics.

Contact: Mrs Charlotte Mackenzie Tel: 0113 203 7194 Email: info@candybows.co.uk www.candybows.co.uk

AWDIS ACADEMY AND PENCARRIE STAND 51

DENBY DALE CLOTHING q

‘Made for the long term’ 1880 CLUB is one of the UK & Ireland’s leading schoolwear manufacturers offering a comprehensive range designed and built for the classroom yet durable enough for the rigours of the playground.

Tel: +44 (0) 28 9332 7777 Email: enquiries@1880club.com www.1880club.com

AMAYA SALES UK STAND 54

DIAMOND TEXTILES LTD STAND 25

EUROPA SPORTS STAND 52

Eskimo EPOS is one of the leading suppliers to Schoolwear Retailers across the UK providing them with effortless stock control in store and online.

Tel: 01202 477111 Email: gary2nebulasystems.net www.eskimoepos.com

We do a wide range of back to school sportswear and clothing. If you can’t find what you are looking for in our catalogue or web page please contact us.

Tel: 0116 278 0562 Email: akeuropasports@aol.com Email: joeuropasports@aol.com www.europasports.co.uk

GARDINERS STAND 2

GYMPHLEX LTD STAND 48

FALCON SPORTSWEAR STAND 23

Gardiners distribute leading lifestyle brands of schoolwear and accessories to the retail trade, worldwide.

Tel: 01452 727 300 Email: sales@gardinerbros.co.uk www.gardinerbros.co.uk

HALBRO SPORTSWEAR LTD STAND 9

Lollipop’s extensive range of quality hair accessories for school enable stockists to gain valuable additional sales. Cotton mix, velvet and ginghams plus many styles of quality basics, all in 12 colours.

Tel: 01494 447000 Email: sales@primrosemktg.co.uk www.primrosemktg.co.uk

Tailored Bespoke Schoolwear, made to the most exacting standards. We create distinctive schoolwear garments to a high specification of design, style, colour, fabric and manufacture.

Tel: 028 7963 2188 Email: mona@kkschoolwear.com www.kkschoolwear.com

MAKURA SPORT LTD STAND 40

Makura Sport are a mouthguard manufacturer based in the UK, since its inception the brand has developed a reputation for producing high quality products at affordable prices accompanied by excellent customer service.

Tel: 0330 333 8940 Email: robert@makurasport.com www.makurasport.com

HALBRO SPORTSWEAR LTD q

HELIX / MAPED q

KK MODEL q

LOLLIPOP q

MAKURA SPORT LTD q

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LOLLIPOP STAND 27

KK MODEL STAND 33

K.T. LABELS LTD q

FALCON SPORTSWEAR

DIAMOND TEXTILES LTD q

K.T. Labels Ltd – the global name tape supplier.

Providing the finest labels for clothing, property, trophies, wash care and lots more.

New website for 2016!

Tel: 0121 689 2211 Email: info@kwiktapeslabels.com www.kwiktapeslabels.com

Helix has been synonymous with quality educational products for over 125 years and now offer a choice of 3 of the world’s most recognised education brands; Helix, Oxford and Maped.

Tel: 01384 286 860 Email: customerservices@mapedhelix.co.uk www.mapedhelix.co.uk

ESKIMO EPOS q

K.T. LABELS LTD STAND 20

HELIX / MAPED STAND 21

GARDINERS q

Halbro supply bespoke technical sportswear and stock items ideal for all team/school sports and associations. Short delivery times and small minimums.

Tel: 01204 696476 Email: sales@halbro.com www.halbro.com

Building on over a century of high quality supply, Gymphlex (via GFORCE) offers the complete bespoke sportswear solution to the education and sports club markets.

Tel: 0116 255 6326 www.gforcesportswear.co.uk

EUROPA SPORTS q

Falcon Sportswear Ltd is a leading stockist of quality sportswear for all ages. Visit our stand for an introduction to our new products for 2017.

Tel: 01274 306440 Email: email@falconsports.co.uk www.falconsports.co.uk

GYMPHLEX LTD q

Over 20 years of experience in manufacturing high quality, durable fabrics and garments.

Specialists in the fleece and schoolwear market.

Tel: 0116 2510121 Email: info@diamondtextiles.co.uk www.diamondtextiles.co.uk

ESKIMO EPOS STAND 13

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MAGICFIT STAND 34

Marton Mills are delighted to announce the acquisition of Cedric Roberts, this high quality proven wool melton range perfectly compliments our new wool blends collection.

Tel: 0113 2843364 Email: enquiries@martonmills.co.uk www.martonmills.com

OPRO INTERNATIONAL STAND 11

PRESTIGE SCHOOL WEAR LTD STAND 7 We are manufacturers of high quality bespoke and generic girls pleated kilts, skirts, blouses tunics, dresses, culottes and boys trousers, breeks, waistcoats, tailcoats, bermudas and shorts.

Tel: 0141 774 0387 Email: mail@prestigeschoolwear.co.uk

ROWLINSON KNITWEAR LTD STAND 43

Established in 1935, Pex has the UK’s most comprehensive collection of Back to School socks and tights.

Tel: 0116 2861616 Email: info@pex-kids.com

RUSSELL JERZEES, FRUIT OF THE LOOM AND PENCARRIE STAND 29

Come and see why Fruit of the Loom gets outstanding results and why Jerzees Schoolgear gets top marks right across the range.

Visit the PenCarrie stand to view the latest ranges.

Tel: 0800 252 248 Email: sales@pencarrie.com www.pencarrie.com

RESULT CLOTHING STAND 41

Shower and windproof, this new super soft, lightweight and warm ready-to-brand R233J&Y jacket is ideal for wet and windy days. Features include a hinged inner neck panel for selfbranding, reflective hip detail and integral hood.

Tel: 01206 865605 Email: enquiries@resultclothing.com www.resultclothing.com

SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION STAND 24

The Schoolwear Association represents the interests of all those involved in the manufacture and supply of school specific uniform. Established in 2006, the Association is run on a voluntary basis by some of the sector’s most experienced professionals.

Tel: 0121 474 4200 (Trudy Bryan) Email: Info@schoolwearassociation.co.uk www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk

SPOT ON GIFTS STAND 16 UK’s No.1 Trade Supplier of Officially Licensed and Branded Lunch Bags, Water Bottles, Gym Bags. Our products are ideal for School Uniform Retailers.

Tel: 020 8573 0803 Email: info@spotongifts.net www.spotongifts.net

RUSSELL JERZEES, FRUIT OF THE LOOM AND PENCARRIE q

RESULT CLOTHING q

SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION q

SPOT ON GIFTS q

PEX q

MAGICFIT q

Our 2017 school range consist of girls soft classic T-bar Mary Janes to boys tough premium shoes in Tek-tan leathers. Pod range from EU32-52.

Tel: 01234 240 440 Email: sales@aegisshoes.co.uk www.pod-footwear.com

PRESTIGE SCHOOL WEAR LTD q

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POD FOOTWEAR - AEGIS SHOES LTD STAND 19

ROWLINSON KNITWEAR LTD q

OPRO INTERNATIONAL

PEX STAND 50

MARTON MILLS q

Supplying premium quality knitwear to the schoolwear market for over 80 years, including plain and bespoke, with speedy personalised embroidery and low minimum orders.

Tel: 0161 477 7791 Email: sales@rowlinson-knitwear.com www.rowlinson-knitwear.com

Quality Woven Name Tapes, Iron-on Name Labels, Name Tape Printing Systems, Same-day Despatch, Proud to be a UK Manufacturer!

Tel: 01834 861 446 Email: sales@nationalweaving.co.uk Redstone Mill, Redstone Road, Narberth, Pembs, SA67 7ES

NATIONAL WEAVING q

Three unique brands all available from the OPROGROUP: OPRO self-fit, the most advanced self-fit mouthguards in the world with great margins achievable, Maru, the perfect choice for stylish yet functional swimwear and Mueller sports supports and accessories.

Tel: 01442 430690 ext.1042 Email: Catherine.hughes@oprogroup.com www.oprogroup.com

NATIONAL WEAVING STAND 6

POD FOOTWEAR AEGIS SHOES LTD q

UK manufacturers of quality school socks and tights. The complete one-stop schoolwear and sock knitwear supplier.

Tel: 0116 277 3857 Email: info@magicfit.co.uk www.magicfit.co.uk

MARTON MILLS STAND 47

STABILO STAND 45 STABILO have developed a range of ergonomic writing products suitable for both left and right handers. The range focuses on comfort and efficiency.

Tel: 01753 605 656 Email: sales.uk@stabilo.com www.stabilo.co.uk

SURRIDGE SPORT STAND 35 Surridge Sport supply UK stocked Team Wear and Leisure Wear to the education market.

Specialists in UK manufactured Dye-sublimated Bespoke Playing Kits.

Tel: 01282 418 448 Email: sales@surridgesport.com www.surridgesport.com

TIE & SCARF COMPANY STAND 22 Tie & Scarf Company supply most of the prestigious independent schoolwear/sports retail shops, plus embroidery companies within the U.K with school ties scarves and badges.

Tel: 0161 761 5151 Email: tieandscarf@chaytow.com www.tieandscarf.co.uk

TheMagicTouch offer affordable image transfer solutions for personalised garment and schoolwear decoration. Including the latest digital colour printers and professional heat press equipment.

Tel: 01582 671444 Email: sales@themagictouch.co.uk www.themagictouch.co.uk

TOP TO TOE STAND 18 Our specialist system has been delivering EPOS and stock management solutions to the schoolwear sector for over 25 years.

Come and try out our new product!

Tel: 020 3376 5888 Email: sales@toptopotoe.com Web: www.toptotoe.com

WILLIAM TURNER STAND 31 William Turner boasts an impressive stock range and nearly 50 years in bespoke design.

Look out for their new counter top stands and preview their new look 2017 brochure.

Tel: 0161 480 8582 Email: sales@william-turner.co.uk www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk

THEMAGICTOUCH (GB) LTD STAND 28

TRUTEX STAND 53 Trutex is synonymous with quality and a trusted brand for generations. With John Hall and AKOA, this reinforces the sales proposition for our customers.

Tel: 01200 4212000 Email: sales@trutex.com www.trutex.com

WINTERBOTTOM’S SCHOOLWEAR STAND 15 Full schoolwear design and bespoke service.

Academy, private and cultural school design projects for retailers. Wide range of stock supported school essentials.

Tel: 01254 390700 Email: info@winterbottoms-schoolwear.co.uk www.winterbottoms-schoolwear.co.uk

WREN SCHOOLWEAR LTD STAND 42 Wren Schoolwear is an independent manufacturer of school dresses, blouses, tunics and skirts using long established British fabrics made to customers own individual requirements.

Tel: 01206 841222 Email: wrenschoolwear@ymail.com www.wrenschoolwear.co.uk

ZECO SCHOOLWEAR STAND 10

TRUTEX q WREN SCHOOLWEAR LTD q

THEMAGICTOUCH (GB) LTD q

TOP TO TOE q WINTERBOTTOM’S SCHOOLWEAR q

SURRIDGE SPORT q

TIE & SCARF COMPANY q

ZECO SCHOOLWEAR q

WILLIAM TURNER q

STABILO q

Celebrating 40 years of supplying high quality, competitively priced school uniforms and affiliated products. Stock all year round ensuring rapid turnaround time.

Tel: 01708 739 390 Email: sales@zecoschoolwear.com www.zecoschoolwear.com

SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION UPDATE CWB gets the latest news from the Schoolwear Association (SA), a not-for-profit body that represents all those involved in the supply of school-specific uniform. Now in its 10th year, the SA has become the voice of its industry and a force for fair and ethical trading. Here, CWB provides a run-down of the Association’s current agenda, including the formation of new executive teams, the launch of guidelines for schools to clarify specifying and sourcing uniform, continued work on the Every Child is Worth It campaign and the plans for October’s Schoolwear Show and this year’s SA fundraiser.

— The Schoolwear Association (SA) was founded in late 2006 as a trade body for the school-specific uniform sector. It represents the interests of more than 200 specialists including retailers, suppliers, wholesalers, fabric manufacturers and garment decorators. Together, its members clothe millions of school children and supply products to 75 per cent of the UK’s schools and academies.

SA RESTRUCTURE The Association’s founding was born out of necessity: to provide a common voice for the industry, particularly for press and bodies who influence its market. The SA Executive gives its time voluntarily in the interests of the industry, working within teams to maximise growth opportunities within the sector. The SA chair is rotated, the role currently held by David Burgess of David Luke. This year sees the SA’s formation reorganised to include new teams, which are as follows: Membership Trudy Bryan – Early Years Sarah Hickling – Schoolwear and More Sean Foster – Foster’s Schoolwear Marie Conroy – Boydell’s Marketing Mike Brumfitt – Falcon Dan Turner – William Turner Kuljeet Dulkoan – Diamond Textiles Political Affairs Gill Phipps – Early Years Alex Gani – School Uniform Direct Mario Valentino – GS by Valentino Darren Wise – Darlcy Garments Matthew Easter – Trutex David Burgess – David Luke

Views Howard Wilder – Blue Max Banner Daran Brown – School Trends Events Marie Bradburn – Agent Peter Dalton – Nextgen Clothing Social Media Linda Painter – Painter PR Ltd. Sarah Hickling - Schoolwear & More Media Philip Linz – The School Uniform Specialists The SA also employs a PR and communications agency for press work.

THE SA CODE OF PRACTICE The SA encourages best practice with a series of initiatives including the development of a robust Code of Practice, which its members are expected to adhere to. In addition, it provides members with a press service and acts as ‘the voice’ of the industry. The SA’s strategy is simply: to focus on the benefits of school uniform and all of the advantages that it can confer on pupils and schools. The SA believes that school-specific uniform can bring greater school pride, improved behaviour and better security for children.

MORE SUPPORT FOR MEMBERS The Association issues factsheets to its members to help with issues they may face and need help on. Such issues can range from how to gain local press for their business to the current situation on raw material prices and how to go about trademarking a logo.

The SA also works extensively with all of the bodies who influence its market, having regular meetings with the Department for Education (DfE), politicians and other

organisations and charities who have the wellbeing of school children at heart. It communicates regularly with schools to encourage them to understand the part that they can play in being fair to those who supply them with uniform, and to encourage them to develop strong relationships with members who are signed up to good practice.

A new guide to buying school uniform and understanding the tendering process is part of that work. The SA believes that quality and service is the way forward for its industry. It does not advocate the trend of ‘disposable’ clothing, instead promoting the belief that a good garment with longevity offers the best value for a parent.

EVERY CHILD IS WORTH IT CAMPAIGN The SA believes every child deserves a quality school-specific uniform, which matches that of everyone else and provides real value for money by lasting longer. The SA upholds that this can only be achieved by schools working closely with specialist suppliers, who can offer suitable solutions for all by using a mix of clothing specific to the school as well as generic items that are more widely available, giving a properly balanced uniform. Specialists recognise the importance of being able to provide all sizes and all colour options all year round, not just at Back to School time.

In order to spread its message that low cost uniform generally isn’t durable, the Association is working with a press team to deliver national media campaigns to promote the importance of good quality uniform for every child in the UK. This campaign is also supported by the SA’s own research, which highlights that it is a preconception that purchasing uniform from specialist suppliers is costly – school uniform costs on average just 45p per school day. What the Association AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 60

SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

identified as the real drain on many family budgets, is the clothing children wear when they are not in school. One individual garment to be worn out of school could cost an average of £46.58, which is £13.10 more than the cost of a full primary school uniform, excluding PE kit.

THE SA AND THE SCHOOLWEAR SHOW 2016 Once again, in October, the Association will be attending the biggest event in the schoolwear industry calendar in order to promote the benefits of membership to all schoolwear specialists attending.

Additionally, this year, the Schoolwear Show will be hosting business seminars for the first time during the exhibition. Plans are for the seminars to include information from the SA on how to help schools with the tendering process. The seminars will be held in the SA Coffee Lounge, which this year is sponsored

by Winterbottom Schoolwear.

As in previous years, the Association will also be hosting its annual fundraising event at The Schoolwear Show. This year’s theme is Back to the 80s, with the event set to include a three-course meal and dancing.

LAUNCH OF THE SA GUIDE TO SOURCING AND SPECIFYING UNIFORM The Association’s key project this year was the recent launch of a guide to help clarify the process for schools when it comes to specifying and sourcing uniform. SA chair David Burgess explains the reasons behind the guide’s creation.

“Our new guide to specifying and sourcing school uniform is intended to give head teachers and governors the information they need to ensure every child and every school benefits from the advantages of a high quality, good value uniform in terms of its benefits to learning, behaviour and safety,” says Burgess.

“We advise schools to review their school uniform agreements regularly, ideally every three to five years. Before any review, we recommend schools give their existing supplier(s) reasonable notice as suppliers may have a considerable stockholding of the current school uniform,” he continues. “When reviewing, schools should run a consultation with parents, governors and students, and then discuss any feedback with their selected tenderers.

“It is vital to always consider the quality, price and availability of products and to decide in advance how many products will require branding with the school badge or identity, as the right balance between specific and generic is critical. It’s very important to allow plenty of time for this process.

“Schools should be aware that at some point in the coming year, the DfE guidelines on specifying school uniform are expected to become statutory and they will need to make sure that they are compliant with policy. It is likely that they will need to put contracts out to tender and consider carefully the benefits of sole supplier agreements versus a shared supply arrangement, particularly if a school has been working with a single supplier for some time.

“This change in regulation was the main catalyst behind the launch of our new Guide

to Sourcing and Specifying Uniform, as we felt schools required solid advice on how to undertake what can be an unclear process.

“Frustratingly, many schools are unaware of the preferred supplier timetable in order to achieve cost and delivery efficiencies. Many schools are also unclear as to whether they can choose a sole supplier contract or work with multiple suppliers. The DfE guidelines state either is acceptable.

“There are many choices of supply, such as direct-to-school, independent retailers, multiple retailers, internet suppliers or supermarkets. However, schools must be able to show the decision is best for parents based on factors including availability, price and convenience of supply, ethical sourcing, and consistency of the uniform. The most transparent way to do this is through a tendering process and the SA is working on a practical tendering form to use.

“Moving forwards, we will continue to work with the DfE to provide advice on how the industry works and offering help with regards to the guidelines becoming statutory. We will be updating the guide as and when we receive further information,” concludes Burgess.

To download a copy of the guide, please visit the website: www.schoolwearassociation. co.uk/schools-info/ (Extra printed copies are available to SA members for their schools.)

SA GUIDE: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q: How long do suppliers need prior to delivery?

A: Specialist suppliers typically make contact with their schools in October to ensure there are no changes planned. Autumn is when their stocks of uniform are at their lowest after the busy Back to School period. This is the time schools should inform them of any intention to

change, as suppliers need to order garments at least three to four months in advance of delivery, longer for bespoke items. Schools should aim to finalise their decision before Christmas to give the supplier plenty of time to meet their needs. Otherwise, they should make Easter term the cut-off point.

Q: How can we ensure we lower the price of uniforms for disadvantaged families?

A: On average, children spend 10 hours a day in school uniform, so comfort and durability are vital. Responsible specialist suppliers should provide sensible advice and quality products at competitive prices with a mix of school-specific uniform items and generic garments to create a smart look at an acceptable price. Many SA members and other suppliers help schools to help disadvantaged families via a number of schemes, which you can find out more about on the SA website.

Q: What questions are important to include within a tender document?

A: The tender form should be specific to school uniform and only ask relevant questions to encourage more suppliers to tender and make the process more competitive and open.

It should give clear details about the items required, so that prices can be compared, and give information regarding likely quantities and pupil numbers per school year. An example form can be downloaded on the SA website in the ‘schools’ section.

Q: Should specialist suppliers meet with a school face-to-face?

A: It is always beneficial to have a face-to-face meeting, or at least a telephone call, to clarify requirements. The better you understand the school’s needs, the better you will be able to serve them.

Members can join the association from £50 per year. Details can be found at www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 61

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A Agatha Ruiz de la Prada 0034 9655 46899 www.tuttopiccolo.com • Albetta 01628 820082 www.s-cbrands.com • A Little Lovely Company 0031 5073 70191 www.alittlelovelycompany.nl • Angel’s Face www.angels-face.co.uk • Annaliv 020 8144 2118 www.annaliv.co.uk • Arsène et les Pipelettes 0033 5243 35780 www.arseneetlespipelettes.com B Bimble Shoes 07866 493173 www.bimbleshoes.com • Blade & Rose 07920 752260 www.bladeandrose.co.uk • Blue Max Banner 01225 715070 www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk • Bo-Bell 00351 225074153 www.bo-bell.pt • Bobux 01280 701683 www.bobux.com • Braveling 07808 922525 www.braveling.co.uk • Bubblegum Stuff 020 34111 636 www.bubblegumstuff. com • Bubble London 020 7596 5061 www.bubblelondon.com • Bundlebean 020 7610 2690 www.bundlebean.com C Cam Cam Copenhagen 0045 2559 3100 www.camcam.dk • Charlotte Mathieu 07934 752108 www.charlotte-mathieu.com • Cóndor 020 3286 1451 www.condor.es D Daisy Roots 01604 880066 www.daisy-roots.com • David Luke 0161 272 7474 www.davidluketrade.com • Didriksons 0046 3312 7120 www.didriksons. com • Dionne Gooding 020 3857 4808 www.dionnegooding.com E Ecco www.ecco.com • Emile et Rose 01392 677555 www.emile-et-rose.co.uk • Etiquette Clothiers 07970 383188 www.littleicons.co.uk F Forivor 07811 461231 www.forivor.com • Four’eMki 020 3857 4808 www.fouremki.com • French King 0033 1423 30113 www.french-king.fr • Froddo 01707 888388 www.froddo.com • Frugi 01326 558462 www.frugiwholesale.com G Gioseppo Kids 0116 259 7427 www.gioseppo.com • Golden Finishes 02920 741650 www.goldenfinishes.com • Gosoaky 07970 383188 www.littleicons. co.uk H Haus of Jr Johnny@the-leverage.com www.hausofjr.com • Homeyness Liberty Kids 0045 4272 6300 www.homeyness.co.uk • House of Bibs 07923 346324 www.houseofbibs.com • Hush Puppies 020 7860 0100 www.hushpuppies.co.uk I Igor 07786 136260 www.igor.es • Ipanema 01992 701832 www.ipanema. uk.com K KIDD-IN London 07583 907558 www.kiddinnlondon.co.uk • Kite 01202 733222 www.kite-clothing.co.uk • Kokori 07900 956892 www.kokori.co.uk L Lara & Ollie 07968 210479 www.laraandollie.co.uk • Lelli Kelly 0039 0583 4311 www.lellikelly.it • Little Lord & Lady 01484 917597 www.littlelordandlady. co.uk • Little Lulu’s 0114 2218276 www.little-lulus.com • Little Miss Aoki 0039 3471 271405 www.mischkaaoki.com • Love Mae 01628 820082 www. scandi-chic.com • Lurchi by Salamander 01664 454920 www.hbshoes.co.uk M MAÁ Shoes 0034 965815230 www.maashoes.com • Mama Designs 01993 359897 www.angelmaternity.co.uk • Manuela de Juan 0034 965815230 www.manueladejuan.com • Milou & Pilou 0034 606 971 511 www.milouandpilou.com • Mimosa 07910 491067 www.mimosakids.com • Minijammies 07779 146051 www.cyberjammies.co.uk • Moksha Cashmere 07784 290208 mokshacashmerebaby.co.uk • Molo 020 70994730 www.molo.com N Nana Momo Makes 07807 804086 www.nanamomomakes.co.uk • Nibbling Teething Jewellery 07943 958860 www.nibbling.co.uk • Noodoll 020 7253 1890 www.noodoll.com • Noook 07513 250198 www.noook.eu P Pehr 01628 820082 www.scandi-chic.com • Petites Pattes 07471 060385 www.petitespattes.co.uk • Plae UK 020 7281 8499 www.goplae.co.uk • Pocopato 07506 957930 www.pocopato.pl • Pom D’Api 0033 6036 02804 www.pomdapi.fr • Potwells Trading 0845 6531493 www.potwellstrading.co.uk R Rachel Riley 020 7935 7007 www.rachelriley.co.uk • RAP 07967 560633 www.arautorap.com • Richter 0043 7229 70071 www.richter.at • Ricosta 0116 259 7427 www.ricosta.de • Rowlinson Knitwear 0161 477 7791 www.rowlinson-knitwear.com S Salt-Water Sandals 07887 538593 www.salt-watersandals.com • Samphire

by Petasil 01604 876800 www.petasil.com • Satra 01536 410000 www.satra. co.uk • Schoolwear Association 0116 204 4862 www.schoolwearassociation. co.uk • Shoo Pom 0033 6036 02804 www.pomdapi.fr • Skummis 01235 848192 www.northlightdesign.co.uk • Snoozebaby 020 3744 1056 www.littlesaints.co.uk • Solillas 020 8144 0448 www.solillas.com • S.Oliver 0049 5231 605351 www.soliver-shoes.com • Superfit 07775 995547 www.superfit.at T The Little Shoemaker 01273 504187 www.thelittleshoemaker.com • Tots Bots 0141 774 6437 www.totsbots.com • Tootsa www.tootsa.com U Ubang 07500 965218 www.ubang.dk W Wild & Gorgeous 0844 371 3301 www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk • Willow & Ivy jade@willowandivy.co.uk www.willowandivy.co.uk Z Zaxy 020 7377 2570 www.zaxyshoes.co.uk

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 63

DIRECTORY | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

ACCESSORIES

DISTRIBUTOR WANTED

SCHOOL TIES

Balloon Bijoux Girls hair & fashion accessories for all ages www.balloonbijoux.co.uk

New organic label with a unique concept are looking for a distributor in the UK.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE CWB DIRECTORY PLEASE CALL MICHELE ON

0208 207 2500 info@balloonbijoux.co.uk

01484 848337

Balloon Bijoux The Telegraph(UK) March 2015 “I am impressed by this organic babywear brand”.

OR EMAIL MICHELE @RAS-PUBLISHING.COM

Tel: +31(0)30 7514025 Email: natalie@daddyproof.nl www.daddyproofkidswear.com

SCHOOLWEAR

AGENCY

ORCHARD AGENCY Chris, Carol, Lisa & Ray are the team behind Orchard, a leading second generation childrens clothing agency in the UK, with expertise in London and the South East.

Orchard Agency, 28 Fourth Avenue, Frinton-on-Sea, Essex CO13 9DX Tel: 01255 674301 Email: chris@orchardagency.co.uk carol&ray@orchardagency.co.uk

BABY & KIDS SHOES

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Established for over 25 years, two generations, covering all areas of the UK. Representing leading brands from Europe and Canada, catering for boys and girls 0 to 16 years. Styling from contemporary to traditional.

FUN & FUN, LE CHIC, DEUX PAR DEUX, NO NO, BOBOLI, FOQUE, SARDON, LARANJINHA, ITTY LONDON Weldon Agencies, Southport, Merseyside Tel: 01704 576033 Email: barrieweldon@btconnect.com, andrewweldon@btconnect.com www.weldonagencies.co.uk

Warth Industrial Park, Warth Road, Bury BL9 9NB Tel: 0161 761 5151 Fax: 0161 762 0202 Email: tieandscarf@chaytow.com Web: www.tieandscarf.co.uk

Van Huizen Agencies is a young, fresh and vibrant agency, for the more discerning retailer requiring beautiful and unique collections.

OILILY KIDS, ROOM SEVEN KIDS, RAP KIDS SHOES Unit 12, Derwent Business center, Clarke Street, DERBY DE1 2BU Tel: 07967 560633 Email: franck@vanhuizenagencies.co.uk www.vanhuizenagencies.co.uk

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 65

TALKING POINT | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

MARK TWEED UK sales director, Cyberjammies Leading women’s sleepwear brand Cyberjammies has extended its remit to include children with its new collection, Minijammies. CWB speaks to the company’s UK sales director Mark Tweed to get the lowdown on the new kids’ offer as well as learning more about the brand’s heritage and its investment into helping provide the perfect night’s sleep.

Laura Turner: What’s the story behind Cyberjammies?

Mark Tweed: The brand was established in 2002 by the Sadarangani family from India; a family with a proven track record in delivering excellent quality nightwear around the world.

To that point, Suresh, the father of the family, had always felt that quality was compromised on the high street as a result of restrictions on price. He therefore set about creating a sleepwear range starting with the fabric first.

By ensuring the fabric was extra special, the range was developed with quality and softness as a priority. Our brand has stood for fantastic value and amazing quality ever since.

instant after the launch, with House of Fraser agreeing to stock the range almost immediately. It was only a short period after, around two years later, that we also managed to secure John Lewis as another major customer.

We haven’t looked back since.

LT: When did you join Cyberjammies?

MT: I joined in 2004. I was previously a merchandiser, with over seven years’ experience in various departments, most importantly, ladies’ sleepwear.

LT: What does the Minijammies collection offer?

MT: For s/s 17, the early range’s focus is pyjama sets, but the later deliveries include shorts, vests, T-shirts, mini shirts and a playsuit. Our girls’ range has a real mix of colours extending from greys, pinks and purples through to striking reds, pretty pastels and fresh aquas and whites. For the boys, it’s no surprise that blue is a dominant theme throughout, together with grey; a bolder mix of colour marks the start of the high summer range for boys. The age range is from 4-5 years through to 12-13 years for boys and girls.

LT: What inspired the brand name, Cyberjammies?

MT: Jammies as a name for pyjamas has been around for a long time. Having decided to launch the brand online first, back in 2002, Cyber was a word commonly used for online, so we put the two together. Things have moved on since then, digitally and for our brand, but the name has stuck.

LT: When and how did Cyberjammies get its big break?

MT: Cyberjammies’ big break was pretty

LT: What instigated the launch of Minijammies?

MT: We’ve been discussing the introduction of a kids’ collection for some time. With such a loyal and expanding group of female customers, we were confident that they would welcome the addition of a kids’ range for their children and grandchildren.

LT: What do you predict Minijammies’ bestsellers to be?

MT: They are all winners! At least we think so.

For girls, I would say watch out for the butterfly

collection. The dinosaur range is fantastic for boys, too.

LT: Are there plans to expand the Minijammies collection over time?

MT: We are always looks to develop and expand the collections. For now, our focus is on delivering the current offer to the best of our ability.

LT: What sets Minijammies apart from the competition?

MT: We are absolutely dedicated to the softest and best quality sleepwear there is. With such a focus, we believe it sets us apart from any other sleepwear in the market. Our sales growth to date certainly backs this up.

LT: Where do you see Minijammies in five years’ time?

MT: We hope to be in over 150 department stores and independent boutiques, with a strong presence online across multiple etailers, too. We aim to become the household name for branded kids’ sleepwear in the same way Cyberjammies is for women.

LT: Tell us something we don’t know about Cyberjammies…

MT: Cyberjammies will use in excess of 250,000 metres of fabric within the next year to produce its collection orders worldwide.

Each and every fabric we use is designed and engineered by us, alongside our partner mills, to ensure we have the softest and most durable fabrics for our nightwear.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 - 66

11—13 September 2016 Olympia, London

CHILDREN’S Experience the beautifully curated world of Children’s at Top Drawer, London’s international event for creative retailers.

From toys and games to clothes and accessories, this is where you’ll find gifts that children will cherish.

REGISTER NOW topdrawer.co.uk/childrens

A is for Apple and V is for Vegan…

It’s hard enough teaching our kids the alphabet, yet alone teaching them ethics. RAP has always been known for its ECO friendly credentials and now with its new VEGAN Kids collection, which has been created using a natural cork upper, organic cotton lining, water based non animal derived glues and a natural crepe sole, it’s 100% PeTA approved Vegan too.

So now YOU can support good ethics, whilst we support your kids feet.

RAP for your little eco warriors…

Come visit us at MODA stand F59 or make an appointment with Franck@arautorap.com Tel: 07967 560633