CWB MAGAZINE November/December Issue 85

ChIlDRenSweAR BUyeR novemBeR/DeCemBeR 2013 ISSUe 85 £8.50

A/w 14 Show InSIght Previewing this season’s key exhibitions KISSy KISSy’S Sweet 16th the US babywear label celebrates 16 years of global success tAlKIng PoInt Karen Brost on the launch of her debut kids’ collection

PREMIUM OUTDOOR & SKIWEAR For Children 0-12 years old

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REGULARS 05: Comment 06: News 08: NCWA 10: Open for business Legal and business advice plus industry opinion 12: Retail therapy Store profiles and retail news 14: Brands to watch Editor’s pick of brands

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FEATURES

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18: Brave new world Bill Grimsey’s alternative assessment of the high street 22: Kissy Kissy’s sweet 16th US label Kissy Kissy celebrates its 16th year in business 25: A/w 14 show guide Round-up of the a/w 14 exhibitions offering children’ fashion, footwear, accessories and lifestyle product 32: Industry Measure Bestselling children’s brands

SCHOOLWEAR 37: News

38: Cut your losses How Find My Kit has transformed traditional name tags into technological Smart Tags 40: Innovative add-ons for school School accessories with a little added extra 41: Fitting into the schoolwear sector A look at AlvaKids – the mobile and online application that helps consumers buy “best fit” schoolwear

33: Laura loves The coolest products for kids 34: Style guide Heavy duty winter coats 46: Talking point Karen Brost

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   

26 & 27 January 2014 Business Design Centre, London A great mix of children’s products A unique buying experience

Read our blog, follow our twitter and become a fan!

Photography: Sonya Hurtado, sonyahurtado.co.uk

Apply online now, or register for free tickets at bubblelondon.com

November/December 2013

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According to new international research by VoucherCodes.co.uk, UK Christmas spending online is set to increase by 15.8 per cent, accounting for more than £14.5bn worth of sales this Christmas. Conversely, having an ecommerce website doesn’t automatically guarantee you will cash in on demand, with research by online retail specialist Summit also revealing that slow websites will actually cost UK retailers £8.5bn in lost sales in 2013.

ď€Śď€œď€€ď€–ď€°ď€¸ď€ąď€šď€şď€´ď€Šď€šď€€ď€šď€Šď€łď€­ď€š ď€ˇď€¸ď€­ď€Źď€ąď€Ťď€şď€ąď€śď€ľď€šď€€ď€Žď€śď€¸ď€€ď€Šď€ˆď€‰ď€‹ď€€ď€°ď€Šď€źď€­  

Christmas sales, therefore, are likely to reveal those with websites working to an optimum level, and those who aren’t, and instead, are losing time-starved customers to somebody else. A website’s front end is often the biggest contributor to sluggish performance, with images that haven’t been optimised slowing down page-load speed. Another key culprit is site traffic coming from a mobile device, for which connection speeds are slower, meaning your website needs to be faster.

Whilst Christmas is being sold as a huge opportunity for etailers, and retailers with an ecommerce website, it also brings home how essential it is that online operations are kept up to scratch, so retailers don’t miss out on demand, and those shoppers’ baskets keep on filling.

This issue, with the babywear market enjoying renewed focus since the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s first child, Prince George, we take a look at one of the sector’s key players, Kissy Kissy, on

Editor Laura Turner laura@ras-publishing.com Contributors Isabella Griffiths isabella@ras-publishing.com Christina Williams christina@ras-publishing.com Victoria Jackson victoria@ras-publishing.com Sub editor Amanda Batley amanda@ras-publishing.com Designers Michael Podger mick@ras-publishing.com Clive Holloway clive@ras-publishing.com James Lindley james@ras-publishing.com Richard Boyle richard@ras-publishing.com Sales manager Helen Hodson helen@ras-publishing.com Subscriptions Caroline Mackinnon caroline@moda-uk.co.uk Head of childrenswear Lindsay Hoyes lindsay@ras-publishing.com Production director Gill Brabham gill@ras-publishing.com Marketing director Stephanie Parker stephanie@moda-uk.co.uk Managing director Colette Tebbutt colette@ras-publishing.com Reprographics/printing Image Data Group Ltd 01482 652323

CWB is published 6 times per year by RAS Publishing Ltd, The Old Town Hall, Lewisham Road, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield HD7 5AL. Call 01484 846069 Fax 01484 846232 cwb-online.co.uk CopyrightŠ 2013 CWB Magazine Limited. All rights reserved.Reproduction of any written material or illustration in any form for any purpose, other than short extracts for review purposes, is strictly forbidden. Neither RAS Publishing Ltd nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage to transparencies and any other material submitted for publication.

page 22, as the company celebrates 16 years in business. We also have the low-down on the forthcoming a/w 14 exhibitions in our Show Calendar starting on page 25.

In schoolwear, we take a look at current technologies surrounding the school uniform industry. Aiming to revolutionise the age-old problem of school lost property is new company Find My Kit, in our feature Cut Your Losses on page 38. Here, we look at how Find My Kit has taken the concept of the traditional name tag for school uniform and belongings, and enhanced it with QR technology to create what it has coined as the Smart Tag. On page 41 in our feature Fitting into the Schoolwear Sector, we learn more about AlvaKids for School Uniforms, the UK’s first mobile phone and online application to help consumers ‘buy best fit’ schoolwear, which was launched at this year’s Schoolwear Show in October.

The next issue of CWB will be out in January, and will include an exclusive and extended preview of the a/w 14 edition of Bubble London, the UK’s only dedicated show for children’s clothing, gifts and interiors. Until then, we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a prosperous, happy New Year.

Laura Turner Editor

CWB is a joint venture between RAS Publishing and the National Childrenswear Association.

A Buyer Series Fashion Business Publication CWB is a fashion business publication produced by RAS Publishing Ltd. Other titles include WWB and MWB. RAS Publishing is an ITE Group company.

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 

  Sunproof, importer and wholesaler of Australian sun protection products and winter infant products, and the sole UK agent for Crocs branded footwear and accessories, has opened a trade showroom at its Ilton HQ in Somerset.

UK kidswear sales have grown by around 16.9 per cent over the past five years. Public and media interest in the fashion choices for celebrity kids is cited key in driving demand for luxury kidswear, something premium retailer AlexandAlexa has witnessed, with sales of its luxury kidswear soaring due to increased demand from parents for the latest fashion trends for their kids.

The findings, which are part of Key Note’s 2013 Market Update for kidswear, also highlight that media coverage of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s first child, Prince George, is likely to influence kidswear fashion trends going forward.

  Girlswear brand Angel’s Face, renowned for its pettiskirt tutus, is adding a range of cardigans to its offer.

Offering the entire product range, the new showroom is inspired by the traditional cash and carry concept, with stock located in Sunproof’s own warehouse at the same address.

The new line of cardigans, which feature the brand’s signature angel wings design across the back of the garment, are available in a choice of five colours, navy, cream, grey, bright pink and tea rose, which are all shades that complement Angel’s Face’s core collection of pettiskirts and dresses.

“In my first business in the 90s, as a supplier to the UK rag trade, trade cash and carry was king,” says Sunproof managing director Jouko Nykanen. “With Sunproof’s location just six miles off the A303, and 12 minutes off the M5 at Taunton, every retailer in the South West has easy access to the showroom.”

The cardigans are available in sizes starting from 1-2 years up to teen sizes across all five colours.

  Bubble London, the UK’s only dedicated show for children’s clothing, gifts and interiors, has introduced a new incentive to support brands exhibiting at this season’s show, on 26-27 January 2014 at the Business Design Centre, Islington.

  Disney UK has opened a Cinderella-inspired Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at London department store Harrods, marking the first time a Disney Parks & Resorts offering has been re-created in the UK. The boutique is set in a fairy-tale castle enclosed within Harrods, where children are met by their own Fairy Godmother to become princesses or knights and enjoy a fantasy makeover.

Designed to offer the ultimate storytelling experience for children aged 3-12 years, the boutique will form the centrepiece of Disney at Harrods, a new partnership venture that includes a bespoke Disney Store offering shoppers exclusive themed products and a new-look Disney Café.

Building on its reputation as a hub for new and emerging talent, Bubble London is distributing a practical guide to support all exhibiting brands in maximising the marketing and PR opportunities the show presents. Titled The Bubble Effect, the document is targeted primarily at new brands and small businesses attending the show, but will be distributed to all exhibitors as a useful reference point.

“Bubble has been the starting point for so many great brands, and this is something we celebrate,” says event director Lindsay Hoyes.

“With more and more home-grown and international talent exhibiting each season, it has become essential that we recognise not only the importance of the diversity these new brands bring, but also the demand for more support to ensure they get the most out of the show to help them grow as businesses.”

  Childrenswear label Nui Organics is raising brand awareness throughout November and December, with a dedicated pop-up space in Selfridges London showcasing infant styles from its a/w 13 merino collection.

Established in 2004, Nui Organics offers premium apparel for baby and child, with a focus on natural and organic cotton and wool.

Highlights from the collection include 100 per cent merino knit blankets, bodysuits and separates in sets packaged for gifting. Also key are the brand’s merino and silk blend sweaters and cardigans paired with coordinating pants for ages 0-24 months.

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  Children’s footwear independent Funky Monkey Feet has won the Mamas & Papas Mum & Dad’s The Word Award for the Best Child Friendly Shop in Cardiff.

The award is part of Mamas & Papas Mum & Dad’s The Word guide, which offers parents advice on the best child-friendly places in their local area. All of the places and spaces in the guide have been voted for by parents, and selected by a specialist panel.

  Morrisons’ own-brand childrenswear line, Nutmeg, aims to secure customer satisfaction and loyalty with accurate garment sizing using AlvaForm technical fit mannequins by apparel sizing and fit specialist Alvanon.

Established in 2005, Funky Monkey Feet carries a wide portfolio of brands, including Start-rite, Geox, Lelli Kelly, Pom d’Api, Skechers, Ricosta and Naturino. The store caters for all shapes and sizes of feet and offers a professional fitting service.

  Danish childrenswear label Molo has opened a Norwegian flagship store in the Oslo City shopping centre, carrying its junior collection for boys and girls aged 2-12 years old. The latest opening marks the brand’s eighth own-brand shop in Scandinavia.

Commenting on the opening of the new concept store, brand founder and director Mogens Jepsen says, “We are happy to have the opportunity to open our own concept store in another Scandinavian capital. The sales in Norway are strong, and the Norwegian consumers are a good match for our brand and products.”

Following an earlier trial of the mannequins during the development and launch of its s/s 13 collection, Nutmeg has ordered eight soft, full-body AlvaForms, which represent the accurate and realistic body shapes and postures of boys and girls age three months up to 12 years.

AlvaForms are based on body shape data generated through the Shape GB childrenswear scan project and Alvanon’s European baby measurement research.

  Regent Street continues to build on its reputation as one of the ultimate shopping and lifestyle destinations with the opening of the world’s largest Hackett London store.

The three-storey flagship plays host to an in-house tailor for Hackett’s bespoke tailoring range, as well as casualwear, formalwear, kidswear and the Hackett Mayfair collections.

Other new flagship stores in the area include British luxury fashion brand Aquascutum, which recently opened on Great Marlborough Street.

The new store, spanning two storeys, offers luxury tailoring and outerwear for men, womenswear collections, and Junior, Aquascutum’s latest range for children aged 4-10 years.

 

  Tracey Samuel, founder and designer of childrenswear brand Bonnie Baby, joined an all-female trade mission to New York last month to discover the opportunities available to expand into the US market.

 

Samuel, together with nine other UK brand owners, took part in the mission called Breakthrough, part of Santander’s SME business support programme, and spent five days networking with – and learning from – global business leaders and exporters.

John Lewis is to open one of its largest stores to date in London’s Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd’s Bush, spanning 230,000 sq ft. The development is due to begin next year, and aims to be completed by early 2015.

Samuel had one-to-one meetings with specialists tailored to the childrenswear retail industry, and sought recommendations from marketing, PR and events professionals on how the Bonnie Baby brand can effectively publicise any expansion into the US.

            

Built on four levels, the store will hold more than 350,000 lines and is estimated to cost around £30m and will create 600 jobs.

The new John Lewis store will be part of a £1bn extension of the shopping centre, which will also see the construction of 15,000 new homes as part of the regeneration of the White City area, expected to be completed by 2017.

                     

                  

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COMMENT: NCWA has recently launched another service for members with the production of seven retail training videos.

The videos are short, but packed with information on what to do when opening a childrenswear shop, as well as hints on how to keep your store successful once it is open. They are presented by Miss Jackie Cook, a vice president of NCWA, who is well-known to many in the industry, and are visually attractive to watch as well as informative.

We hope, too, that retailers who have been in existence for many years will benefit from a “refresher course� by looking at the videos, and that manufacturers, suppliers and agents will also learn what some of the challenges are for retailers and how they may be overcome. A “taster video� will be on the public part of the NCWA website (as well as YouTube), to give you an idea of the content and style of the videos. The seven videos themselves will be in the Members section of the website, accessible by your member password. As each video only lasts a few minutes, they may be viewed as a series or individually.

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COCOBACI After 20 years of working for large corporate fashion businesses, three friends and former colleagues made their dream of launching a premium online boutique a reality. Cocobaci is the fruit of their labours, specialising in luxury clothing and gifts for 0-2 years. The retailer is always on the lookout for home-grown talent, and has been working closely with craftsmen, designers and artists to develop more unique and personalised gifts to add to its offer.

Cocobaci has also recently launched its own furniture line using Designers Guild fabrics, with plans to develop this further into soft furnishings. www.cocobaci.com

Ten years ago, NCWA published How to Open a Childrenswear Shop, a guide for those thinking of launching a career in childrenswear retailing. I know it has been of help to hundreds, not least to those who, on reading about the National Minimum Wage, VAT rules, property location, margins and markdowns, realised that perhaps there was too much for them to handle and decided to pursue another challenge. Our new videos are the next stage of our wish to help in the development of new independent retailers, and it is something on which we hope we can build.

The media is full of the news that the British economy is, at last, recovering and growing. Business may still be tough, however, and the weather does not always fit with the merchandise in our shops.

One thing to look forward to is Bubble London, taking place on 26-27 January at the Business Design Centre, Islington. This year’s January show gave us all optimism that the childrenswear industry was moving in the right direction, and next year’s January show should be another step along the road. So, if you are planning to visit, register at www.bubblelondon.com.

Bubble is always a good time to catch up with others in the industry, and the fact that you may be seeing competitors does not mean that you cannot catch up on the news or, indeed, discuss mutual problems. The latter is particularly true of retailers who, while trading hundreds of miles apart, will still be facing the same challenges (how does one deal with the returned non-fitting garment that has obviously been worn?). Attending one of the seminars or simply enjoying a cup of coffee may put you in contact with a fellow retailer with whom you can discuss shared experiences.

NCWA will have its usual stand at Bubble and vice president Lesley Fallon, Michelle Payne and I always look forward to seeing as many members as possible. If you are not a member, you are also welcome to come and talk about joining. Remember, many of NCWA’s services are only open to members, so do take a look at our website, www.ncwa.co.uk. Call Michelle on 020 7843 9488 or e-mail info@ncwa.co.uk. If you prefer, write to NCWA at 3 Queen Square, London WC1N 3AR. Elizabeth P Fox

ď€†ď€ƒď€ ď€†ď€€ď€…ď€‚ď€„

LAYLAMAY Girlswear label Laylamay launched its transactional website in September, and while it caters primarily for retail customers, it has also proved a useful platform for attracting trade enquiries. Highlights of the site include Buy the Look, which allows customers to put an entire outfit into a basket at once. With all of the brand’s garments designed to be layered, the website’s Look Book feature is a useful tool in offering customers inspiration by presenting different ways to wear and style items. Detailed photography is also key to the site, with each garment shown both on a model and as a flat shot. www.laylamay-uk.co.uk

NCWA Council: Chairman SHARON BEARDSWORTH Emile et Rose Manufacturer Vice Chairman DAVID HULL Agent Imm Past Chairman DAVID BURGESS David Luke Ltd Manufacturer Treasurer COLIN WILSON

Council Members: NUALA MCKENNA Nuala McKenna Agencies Agent. DIANE SHAW Agent. SARAH TAYLOR Agent.

RAY WILLIAMS Agent. HANNAH MCHALICK Oh Baby London Manufacturer.

MALCOLM TRAVIS Travis Designs Manufacturer. RACHEL RILEY Rachel Riley Manufacturer.

JANETTE REED Cotswold Kids Retailer. VIRGINIA ROSS Pollyanna Retailer.

President: KEN SCATES Marketing and sourcing consultant Vice Presidents: LESLEY FALLON Retail consultant JACKIE COOK Retail consultant Executive Director: ELIZABETH FOX

• Membership is open to everyone involved in the British childrenswear industry. • Associate membership, open to non-British organisations, is now available.

Read our blog and follow us on Twitter

• Membership costs from £85.

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  Childrenswear brand Kite has launched new website www.kite-clothing.co.uk to serve both its trade and retail customers.

Trade customers can log-in to their wholesale account, where they can view and place orders for current and future collections via an easy online ordering system, while retail customers can access the current season’s range.

  UK children’s accessories brand Inky & Mole, represented by NCWA member Moran Agency, has launched a new range of POS material to enable stockists to enhance the display of its products.

The website has been designed to be fully responsive and viewable on a PC, tablet or mobile, while security is key, with the site having achieved Level 1 PCI DSS compliance – the highest level possible.

“We are delighted to launch our website, which creates a fantastic new platform for our unique brand and provides an improved and secure online shopping experience for trade and retail customers,” says Kite sales director Ally Tyler.

Now available are handmade, hand-painted display boards in a choice of six designs, featuring the brand’s characters Beatrice and Bibi (both pictured) Phoebe, Binky, Daisy and Millie.

Inky & Mole’s range includes girls’ hair clips, slides and bows in a wide range of colours, together with matching girls’ bracelets and necklaces. Wholesale prices for accessories range from 75p to £4, with all items sold on the brand’s eye-catching, character packaging.

 

New designs introduced for 2014 include a baby swimsuit with integral swim nappy, a tankini style for older girls, a ruffle bikini, a towelling dress with ruffles, a rash vest set (with a two-piece style available for girls), a poncho in pink or blue and a towelling dress with a feminine ruffle trim. Other highlights include an expanded nautical theme with new patterns and styles, retro-inspired florals and spots in both Lycra and cotton, and two new applique styles for towelling tops.

  Childrenswear brand Grubbies, which offers denim dungarees, pinafores and rompers, has launched a new set of kerchiefs to complement its offer.

The UK-manufactured brand has teamed up with British children’s book illustrator Marion Lindsay to create two exclusive designs under the theme of Woodland Adventure.

The launch of the videos is the NCWA’s response to growing demand from potential childrenswear retailers for advice on how to start in the industry.

Toadstools features a magical forest, enchanted creatures, woodland fairy folk, and old trees, while Owl depicts a night-time woodland adventure of a boy and his dog and a variety of birds and creatures hiding in the forest.

 

Beach and swimwear brand Mitty James’ new 2014 range includes towelling tops, swim styles, new colours and applique designs.

Mitty James offers continuity lines, short-order top-ups and out-of-season purchases for immediate delivery.

National Childrenswear Association (NCWA) has created short training videos for retailers, highlighting the key areas to consider when opening and running a childrenswear business.

The films, presented by retail expert Jackie Cook, cover subjects including customer profiling, key performance indicators, budget planning and brand development. NCWA members can access the training videos from www.ncwa.co.uk. For further information on the NCWA and benefits to members, email enquiries@ncwa.co.uk.

 

Grubbies’ illustrated kerchiefs are made from 100 per cent cotton voile and hand-painted and hand-sewn in Britain.

                           

  Organic childrenswear and babywear brand Pigeon, formerly Organic For Kids, is set to launch a homeware range.

Kate Smith, appointed to the post of product development by the label last month, will utilise her background in fashion retail management and project management to develop the range.

Established in 2004, British label Pigeon’s current business portfolio includes a year-round babywear line and two seasonal collections of childrenswear. The company is committed to operating in an environmentally and socially responsible way. All of the brand’s products are designed in England, and its entire supply chain, from field to finished product, is certified by the Soil Association.

                                      

                       

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November/December 2013

ď€Źď€€ď€…ď€“ď€‘ď€Œď€Žď€ˆď€‘ď€‘ď€€ď€Ź

ď€…ď€Ľď€žď€˘ď€œď€žď€˘ď€œď€€ď€Ťď€Łď€¨ď€€ď€Śď€§ď€Ľď€–ď€žď€œď€? ď€&#x;ď€žď€˘ď€œď€€ ď€šď€œď€–  ď€–ď€˘ď€™ď€€ď€—ď€¨ď€Śď€žď€˘ď€šď€Śď€Śď€€ď€–ď€™ď€Šď€žď€˜ď€š ď€?ď€ˆď€Šď€„ď€?ď€€ď€„ď€‡ď€”ď€Œď€†ď€ˆď€ƒ

pre-determined rates.

ď€?ď€&#x; ď€?ď€–ď€Ľď€§ď€˘ď€šď€Ľď€ ď€€ď€‰ď€Łď€Ş  ď€?ď€?ď€?

The court preferred the evidence of the agent’s expert on fixed costs.

www.agentlaw.co.uk www.fashionlaw.co.uk

How do you value compensation to be paid to your agent on termination of the agency agreement?

For some time, the position has been clear – compensation is the price a notional third-party purchaser would pay for the agency if the agency had continued and was made available for sale on the open market.

Usually, the amount in question is determined on the basis of expert evidence put forward by agent and principal.

Indeed, this was the position in the latest reported court case concerning compensation. The experts in this case had agreed the direct costs of the agency. But there was a dispute as to the indirect costs to be deducted from the profits of the agency in order to ascertain the net income stream.

The agent held a number of agencies with different principals. The agencies generated an aggregate annual commission of around £1m. Accordingly, the £60,000 annual commission, which had been achieved under the terminated agency agreement, represented only a small proportion of the agent’s total commissions received each year.

The agent’s expert claimed that the majority of the agent’s overheads should be regarded as fixed costs because they would continue to be required to support the agent’s other agencies, whether or not the agent still had the agency with the former principal.

Unsurprisingly, the former principal’s expert disagreed. Instead, he proposed “absorption costing�, by which all overheads (including fixed costs) were to be apportioned to costs centres and income streams using

However, what of the multiplier to be applied to the annual net income stream?

The former principal argued that a multiplier of 2 times should be applied. In contrast, the agent argued that a multiplier of 7 times should be applied. The judge, in a Solomonesque decision, determined that a multiplier of 4.5 times would be applied to the net income stream!

While this was less than the amount that the agent had sought, it is the case that: • It was still 250 per cent more than the principal had offered to pay. • With a certain degree of planning, the principal could possibly have avoided having to make a payment of this amount!

Avoiding compensation To avoid paying compensation, the principal must provide in the agency agreement that on termination the agent will be entitled under the Regulations to an indemnity and not compensation. This provides the fundamental advantage to the principal that, on termination, the amount payable to the agent is capped; it cannot exceed the average of the yearly commission paid to the agent in the five years prior to termination.

Avoiding compensation and indemnity?

If the payment of compensation or indemnity is to be avoided, the principal must point to a material breach of the agency by the agent that justifies immediate termination. Sometimes this can be achieved by relying on a breach by the agent of his statutory duties under the Regulations. Alternatively, there may be a breach by the agent of his fiduciary duty under the general law.

However, it is best if: 1. The agency agreement is in writing and is clear as to the obligations of the agent.

2. The principal can point to a material breach by the agent of the agreement. Š Fox Williams LLP 2013

ď€?ď€ˆď€’ď€„ď€Œď€?ď€€ď€„ď€‡ď€”ď€Œď€†ď€ˆď€ƒď€€  ď€…ď€–ď€Ľď€Ľď€–ď€˜ ď€Łď€¨ď€œď€? ď€‹ď€šď€–ď€™ď€€ď€Łď€›ď€€ď€˜ď€Łď€Ľď€¤ď€Łď€Ľď€–ď€§ď€š   ď€?

HOW CAN RETAILERS MAXIMISE THE SPENDING POWER OF OVERSEAS VISITORS? According to Global Blue, Chinese visitors to the UK spend on average £712 in shops, while WorldPay is seeing average transaction values of £1,000 for purchases with Union Pay, China’s leading payment card. Each of these consumers, together with other high-spending shoppers from Qatar, UAE and Russia, are providing a valuable boost to retail revenues, spending up to four times as much as local customers*.

An option for struggling UK high streets is to look beyond their immediate boundaries and explore international opportunities. But to capitalise on this growing demand, retailers need to make it easy for international shoppers to buy. One positive initiative is the creation of the UK China Visa Alliance – a lobby group dedicated to making it easier for tourists and business people to visit the UK – which WorldPay has joined. After all, the Chinese alone account for almost 20 per cent of non-EU international spending in the UK**.

While some retailers offer tax-free shopping to attract lucrative global consumers into their stores, most are not offering the full range of value added services such as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) that will attract higher footfall and higher spend. This is especially true of those customers who want to take advantage of paying in their local currency rates. By having DCC and other services such as China Union Pay or tax-free shopping available in-store, retailers can reduce the hassle for customers and get them spending more. *Global Blue based on transactions since 1980 ** VisitBritain

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November/December 2013

11

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 





   

     

    



How can a brand increase its chances of editorial coverage?

— What all journalists are looking for is a story with an angle and a distinctive slant, so always promote anything unique – it’s what will make your brand and story stand out from the crowd. It is also what will draw journalists in and make them want to discover more. Pitch your news armed with facts, figures, product descriptions, collection reports and, ideally, good-quality imagery, as these are what a journalist will use to sell your story.

How can a brand optimise exposure in the run-up to a trade show?

— More journalists than ever before are using social media as a key source for news leads.

Make the most of this – it’s free promotion.

Upload press releases and news bulletins to your website, share them on social-media sites and send them to popular industry bloggers.

The key is to share and be seen and generate a buzz in advance.

How can a brand stand out from the crowd at a trade show?

— Always think about PR opportunities, whether it is a new product you are launching, a new look or a new range; they are all ways to grab the attention of journalists and secure appointments with press at trade shows. Once you have appointments, make sure you are well-prepared, with informative press packs at the ready.

How can brands maximise on any coverage they do get?

— If your brand gains press coverage, celebrate the fact. Tweet it, Facebook it and create a press page on your website to promote the coverage you receive. As well as extending the lifespan of any editorial you obtain, sharing your coverage is also a good way to help a publication extend its readership, so it is mutually beneficial, and a good means of building relations with press for the future.

How can a brand get the most out of a trade show?

— Make the most out of your contact lists and let buyers know where you are exhibiting well in advance. If you can, offer incentives to encourage buyers to visit your stand and order while at the show. If you are advertising pre-show, make reference to the exhibitions you will be present at and, if you have them in advance, include your stand numbers. Take advantage of any promotional material the shows offer. If you have the budget, contact exhibition organisers to discuss sponsorship opportunities, as affordable bespoke packages can be put together. Also, don’t be afraid to speak to organisers about collaborations, which will bring something unique to the event and be mutually beneficial.

What can brands do during a show to maximise their presence?

— The appearance of your stand is key; it is the advertisement for your brand. Think carefully about how you wish to showcase your collection and what you want to portray. Be creative and, in placing your product, try and inspire buyers with ideas of how it could potentially be presented in-store. If you have marketing materials, ensure they cohere with the look of your stand, so you present a strong and consistent brand image. Good lifestyle images can breathe life into a product, and are another way of strengthening brand profile.

Is there anything else Bubble offers to enhance the show for exhibitors?

— Exhibitors can nominate key buyers for our Bubble Best Buyer programme, and we run the Rising Star Award for new businesses, which helps new brands gain extra exposure before, during and post show. Homegrown is another initiative for British product and again helps promote qualifying exhibitors. We will be adding new events to the January show – our aim is to offer brands opportunities that they perhaps wouldn’t have without the support and marketing clout of an exhibition.

How can trade shows help brand promotion through marketing?

— It is easy to prioritise the sale element of a show. This is, of course, important, but a trade show should also be seen as part of a brand’s wider marketing activity as they are a great way to market a brand to a ready target audience of thousands, as well as target specific buyers and press.

What is your top tip for brands exhibiting this season?

— Your stand should be the best advertisement you have ever put out for your brand. Making sure you reflect your brand’s style and story through your stand artwork and product placement is a great way to get you noticed at a show.

What can brands do in terms of marketing themselves before a show?

— The marketing process doesn’t just start at the show. Almost every trade show will be looking to promote the brands attending before the show takes place to help generate interest and attract visitors. Sending press releases and good-quality lifestyle shots to the show’s marketing contact is a great way to increase your exposure and coverage before the event.

What marketing support should brands seek before an exhibition?

— Always speak to the marketing team for the show, as they are bound to have a wealth of knowledge and be able to offer useful advice and information about show activities that you could capitalise on. For example, ahead of Bubble London this season, we are sending a Bubble Effect marketing and PR guide to every brand that signs up.

For more industry opinion visit cwb-online.co.uk

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November/December 2013



    

 

INDIACOCO 11 Wood Street, Wakefield WF1 2EL Online childrenswear retailer IndiaCoco has gone from clicks to bricks, having opened its first bricks-and-mortar retail outlet in Wakefield in October.

Prior to opening the store, IndiaCoco owner Claire Harper tested the market with a pop-up shop in Wakefield’s Wood Street Market. The monthly, community-led event takes place in the summer, bringing the high street alive with street entertainment and inspirational pop-up shops such as IndiaCoco’s.

“Following the success of the recent Wood Street Market, we are delighted to open our first store at 11 Wood Street,” says Harper. “We have negotiated a short-term lease and, while we are trading at Wood Street, we will also be focusing on expanding other areas of the business, too, including the online offering and our presence at award-winning Blacker Hall Farm.”

IndiaCoco specialises in offering designer British childrenswear brands such as Tootsa MacGinty, i love gorgeous, Jessie and James, Frugi, No Added Sugar, Lilly + Sid and Ava & Luc. www.indiacoco.com

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November/December 2013

13



WINDMILL 98 Weston Park, Crouch End, London N8 9PP Former Selfridges’ menswear buyer Kirsty Cunningham and business partner Arancha Heredero opened Windmill at the end of October. The new boutique, featuring reclaimed church benches for seats and a candy striped vinyl floor, carries children’s footwear from brands such as Petasil, Froddo, Start-rite, Livie & Luca and Toughies. Accessories including socks, tights, hats, underwear, bags and gifts are also available. A website is planned over the next 12 months.

BO PEEP BOUTIQUE 173a Burton Road, Lincoln LN1 3LW With no designer childrenswear independents in Lincoln, mother-of-two Emma Graham stepped up to the challenge and opened her own last month. Bo Peep Boutique, therefore, is Lincoln’s new destination point for children’s clothing, shoes and accessories from brands such as Emile et Rose, Mayoral, 3 Pommes, Levis, Lelli Kelly, Ruby and Ginger, Crew Clothing and Frugi. In the run-up to Christmas, the store will be offering late-night openings, new-season previews and promotions. www.bopeepboutique.co.uk

 

MY FASHION TRIBU Having gone live last month, My Fashion Tribu is a new online footwear store that allows mums to buy into co-ordinating footwear looks with their children – whether it be for mother and child or brother and sister – hence the origin of the store’s name, with Tribu meaning family in French. My Fashion Tribu makes recommendations to customers on similar and co-ordinating or matching footwear styles from brands such as Ash, Little Marcel, Minnetonka, Gioseppo, XTI and Superga. Plans for the business include expanding the brand portfolio for s/s 14. www.myfashiontribu.com

 

  This season, childrenswear brand Molo has opened its own customised kids’ ski area in Harrods located on the store’s fifth floor. Molo has extended its ski line for a/w 13, with the addition of printed coats and ski pants as well as the introduction of ski goggles.

  Luxury British childrenswear brand Bonnie Baby has opened a concession in the SOGO department store in Shanghai. The concession showcases the brand’s a/w 13 collection, which is inspired by animal characters, origami shapes and geometric patterns.

  ROBERTO CAVALLI JR OPENS IN DUBAI

NEW JOHN LEWIS REWARD SCHEME

COCOSA TO CLOSE DOWN

                            

                        

                      

For more retail news visit cwb-online.co.uk

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 

01: THE BRIGHT COMPANY

02: RUBY ROCKETTE

Unisex sleepwear and bedding label The Bright Company launched with a capsule range in 2012 followed by a full collection for a/w 13. The brand, which is entirely designed and manufactured in the UK, focuses on bright colours and bold prints. Key items include slim-fitting pyjamas, blankets and sleeping bags. Currently available for 0-3 years, the range will cater for up to four years of age for s/s 14. Wholesale prices £10-£22. www.thebrightcompanyonline.com

Well-known for its womenswear collection, Ruby Rocks has now branched into girlswear with Ruby Rockette, which launches for s/s 14.

While taking inspiration from the women’s line, Ruby Rockette, for girls aged 4-12 years, has its own distinctive handwriting and identity. Following the trends from the s/s 14 catwalk, licensee Jump Creations has developed a range that includes day and party dresses as well as a combination of prints, jersey and denim. Wholesale prices on request. www.jumpcreations.com

03: LABEL LAMB

04: PIUPIA

05: BAMBOO BABY

The a/w offering from new British children’s clothing and accessories brand Label Lamb includes tank tops, jumpers, cardigans, dresses and scarves, all made from 100 per cent recycled cashmere. Due to the nature of manufacture, each piece is a one-off, with no two colours the same. Designs, therefore, are offered in a choice of three colourways – pastel, muted and monochrome. A small range of soft furnishings in lambswool is also available. Wholesale prices £19-£54. www.labellamb.com

Established this year by Claudia Carvalho, a Portuguese computer graphics artist, is UK brand Piupia for boys and girls aged 0-2 years, which offers a 100 per cent organic cotton collection produced in Portugal. The label features simple and colourful designs and charming prints, and uses comfortable materials. Offering around 30 pieces per range, key items include sweatshirts, bodysuits, jumpsuits and dresses. Blankets and cushions are also available. Wholesale prices £6-£30. www.piupia.co.uk

A recent investment has seen UK brand Bamboo Baby expand its collections to include more pieces, prints and fabrics, including a bamboo and cashmere line. Established in 2006, the range for boys and girls aged 0-7 years includes bamboo knitted babywear, blankets, gift sets, organic cotton dresses and jeans. Key for a/w 14 include a mini houndstooth check, horse print, polka dots, bamboo jersey and autumnal coloured knits.

Wholesale prices £3.50-£37.50. www.bamboo-baby.com

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Early Days, Baby Shoes for all Occasions Hand made in the UK since 1952 New leopard print leather styles now available including new bootee design See the complete range of over 80 styles at Bubble, 26th - 27th January Stand number B50 For our latest catalogue or more information please contact: Early Days 15 b Mandervell Rd, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LQ Tel: 01162 716944 Email: sales@earlydays.ltd.uk

   

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November/December 2013

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         “Without wanting to sound patronising, Mary Portas’ review was an O-level report, whereas our review is a degree – just a BA degree, because we didn’t have time to turn it into an MA or PHD, but it goes far deeper than the Portas Review,” says Bill Grimsey, the man leading the eponymous alternative review of the high street, when CWB caught up with him just a few days before the official launch of his paper, which was presented during a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons in September.

Grimsey has gathered a team of retail experts – including independent retailer and industry commentator Paul Turner-Mitchell; Chris Shellard, public sector regeneration expert; Eva Pascoe, technology expert; Sid Vasili, entrepreneur and financial expert; Matthew Hopkinson, research expert and MD of the Local Data Company; and Nick Hood, risk analyst – to present a different set of propositions to the government and the other political parties than Mary Portas, whose review two years ago he blasts as “a lot of fluff and superficial stuff” and as having given people “false hope”. “The government wanted to be seen to be doing something, so they appointed a celebrity such as Mary Portas, but she’s not a retailer and she just wanted a TV series out of it. This has completely made light of a serious issue,” he says. “There are opportunities to

invigorate the high street, but it needs a proper framework, which is something the Portas Review failed to deliver. It’s all well and good having town teams, and many of them have enthusiastic people, but you can’t run this without a structure and long-term strategy.

And it certainly won’t be achieved by wheeling out Chas ’n’ Dave ,” he quips in reference to the Portas series, which featured the crooners in an episode about the regeneration of Margate.

It’s needless to say that his outspokenness has lead to a public slanging match between himself and Portas, who retaliated by saying Grimsey should “stop playing politics” and that she stood by her findings.

Grimsey clearly feels well placed to be giving advice on retail issues, having started out in retail aged 15 and having worked for the likes of Bishops, Budgens, Tesco, ParknShop in Hong Kong, Wickes, Iceland and Focus DIY. “I’ve had a 45-year career in retail,” says Grimsey, who funded the report and research, which was conducted over the last three months, himself. “I’m 62, and I want to keep my brain stimulated rather than just playing golf three times a week. I want to use my time meaningfully and give something back.”

The Grimsey Review puts a rethinking of the high street at its core, arguing that there are too many shops and that 20,000 more are

teetering on the brink of collapse. His suggestion is that high streets need to become community hubs that encompass housing, leisure, education, arts and crafts, as well as “some shops”, with technology at the core, responding to the changed consumer habits due to the rise of online. It also tackles issues such as business rates, parking and town-centre planning, and suggests the appointment of a high-street minister, recruited from the retail sector, to make the high-street issue a priority on the political agenda.

Asked how shops can adapt to survive in a “networked high street”, Grimsey says, “What makes shops successful is and has always been the same – you need to have the right product at the right price at the right time, this has never changed and never will. What needs to be changing and what we are suggesting in our report is the methodology and channel of how retailers sell.”

It remains to be seen whether the Grimsey Review will make a significant impact, but Grimsey himself is determined to keep up the pace. “I can’t predict whether the government will listen, but at least I have done my bit,” he says. “What happens from here, I don’t know, but I’m happy to offer my expertise and continue to raise the issues.”

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The 31 recommendations of the Grimsey Review: MARKING THE TRANSITION — 1. Accept that there is too much retail space in the UK and that bricks-and-mortar retailing can no longer be the anchor to create thriving high streets and town centres.

2. Set an objective to repopulate high streets and town centres as community hubs encompassing more housing, education, arts, entertainment, business/office space, health and leisure – and some shops.

3. Establish a Town Centre Commission for each town with a defined skill base and structure to build a 20-year vision for each town supported by a broad business plan in five-year chunks.

4. Require local authorities to hold a public meeting annually to present the 20-year vision, town-centre plans and progress made in the year, supported by an annual progress report.

5. Prepare for a “wired town” or “networked high streets” that put libraries and other public spaces at the centre of each community based on the technology that exists today and will develop in the future.

6. Establish a Digital Maturity Demographic Profile for each town to prepare for networked high street, and tailor connection and communication strategies accordingly.

CREATING A FAIRER, MORE ECONOMICALLY SUSTAINABLE HIGH STREET — 7. Reintroduce immediately the 2015 business rates revaluation to realign property values and freeze business rates from 2014.

8. Once revaluations have taken place, any future increases should be an annualised CPI rate rather than a one-month snapshot.

9. From 2017, revaluations must be conducted annually.

10. Any business occupying a retail property in the retail core of a town centre that has been vacant for 12 months should receive 50 per cent rate relief for two years.

11. There must be a political will and determination to reduce property taxation once the government’s fiscal debt consolidation plans have been fully implemented.

12. The business rates system needs a root and branch review to establish a flexible system that will reflect changes in economic conditions as they occur.

13. Local authorities to use a proportion of their reserves to offer loans to qualifying small businesses.

14. Understand the success of the Bank of Dave set-up and establish a process, including local crowdfunding, for local people to collectively invest in the local community and start-up businesses.

15. Connect planning applications to the business plan for each town and ensure that developments fit within the criteria set.

16. Enable the change of use process to be used to convert entire sub high streets to residential or other uses within the agreed high-street plan and relocate the successful independent retailers into the main commercial centre.

17. Make it easier for motorists to shop by building in a two-hour free high-street and town-centre car-parking system to the overall business plan for the location.

18. Local authorities to freeze car-parking charges for a minimum of 12 months.

COMMUNITY FIRST — 19. Reduce mandatory rate relief for charities from 80 per cent to 70 per cent and of the remaining 30 per cent payable in business rates apportion a third to a ring-fenced local authority pot for projects that benefit the community.

20. Establish greater clarity on the mandatory rate-relief criteria for charities, social enterprises and Community Interest Companies. Organisations whose primary function is to exist for the benefit of the local community – ie hospice shops – should be given priority status for top-up relief from local authorities.

21. Landlords of empty shop units should be required to apply for a change of use and make the asset productive in the community as housing, health, leisure, culture or

education facilities in line with the town plan.

22. Make it compulsory for all Mega Mall developments to create a percentage of affordable space within the developments for local traders and market stall pitches.

23. Evaluate the future of out-of-town shopping parks, and prepare a plan to bring unwanted space back into use to benefit the community.

24. The Community Infrastructure Levy should be used to support the delivery of a town-centre plan.

BETTER MANAGED HIGH STREETS — 25. Put in place common key performance indicators to measure the economic health of each town, and link the reporting through a data dashboard to provide independent, objective and current data on performance.

26. Create a full-time high streets minister to replace the current part-time position that is tagged on to the duties of housing minister.

Encourage greater cross-departmental work between BIS and DCLG to fully understand shared government responsibilities for helping improve local high streets.

27. Establish a comprehensive evidence base that tracks the change in retail and leisure locations from a local, regional and national perspective. Actively encourage and fund research based on this data by academic institutions in partnership with the private sector in order to ensure ongoing thought leadership into the nature and reasons behind changes taking place.

28. Ensure that the economic blueprints produced by Town Commissions are sustainable and environmentally practical by understanding and emulating innovation from Transition Town trials, for example.

29. Make it compulsory for national retail and leisure chains to invest 0.25 per cent of one year’s sales (2014) into a local economic development fund to sponsor local start-up businesses in a similar way to the Prince’s Trust. This would be a one-off levy.

30. Implement the Town Centre Commission process through five trials to test the methodology, information requirements, modeling techniques and viability of the whole process including public consultation.

31. A timetable should be set to conduct the trials by March 2014 and aim to exit 2014 with plans, measures and central technology in place for all town centres for implementation from 2015 onwards.

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WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE GRIMSEY REVIEW? Do you agree or disagree with the points and recommendations raised? E-mail laura@ras-publishing.com with your opinions.

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

4funkyflavours

Angel Dear

Caracoteen

STAND A12

STAND E23

STAND VC6

4funkyflavours is a fun funky brand from e Netherlands that offers cool kids clothes with a '70s feeling.

Tel: +31 402 180 567 Email: info@4ff.eu www.4ff.eu

From our classic blankie to our fine apparel, every Angel Dear product upholds our commitment to beautiful quality. Based in California, we have sold our lines in the finest boutiques and department stores and are now pleased to bring our collection to the UK.

is exclusive innovative French brand for the teenage girl and her little sister, includes nightwear with nighties and boxers. e other major part includes daywear with bras, brassieres, caracoes, panties, shorties and briefs.

Tel: 510 395 1359 Email: kim@angeldear.net www.angeldear.net

Tel: +33 (0)663 80 76 63 Email: iris@caracoteen.com Tel: +33 (0)661 96 18 52 Email: peggy@caracoteen.com www.caracoteen.com

Chipmunks

Cottonbaby

Emile et Rose

STAND A4

STAND VE6

STAND C43

Chipmunks footwear is a collection of fun and fashionable infants shoes. AW14 boys range is military inspired and for girls we have animal print and antique florals. Sizes 4-2 available.

An exciting Korean label now lauching in Europe!

From elegant girl's dresses to colourful vintage inspired kids clothes and accessories. All designed and made in South-Korea. Aged 2-9 yrs.

e best of British babywear - beautiful attention to detail, gi presentation and accessories with most outfits. Classic velour coats for boys and girls are always a favourite.

Sophie Young (Sales Manager) Tel: 01925 710110 Email: enquiries@chipmunksfootwear.co.uk www.chipmunksfootwear.co.uk

Tel: +358 505016198 Email: cottonbabyeurope@gmail.com www.cottonbaby.co.kr

Tel: 01509 881300 Email: rsbsharon@aol.com www.emile-et-rose.co.uk

Frugi

Hatley

Kissy Kissy

STAND A1

STAND C41

STAND G8

e Best Childrenswear on the Planet: Beautiful, ethical, and organic.

Playful and colourful prints matched with excellent quality are what make Hatley every childs favourite.

Tel: 01326 558 462 Email: info@frugiwholesale.com www.frugiwholesale.com

Tel: 0207 544 4833 Email: chriso@hatleylbh.com www.hatley.com

Kissy Kissy’s wonderful layette Collection all in the very finest 100% Pure Pima Cotton.

Beautiful embroidery and gorgeous fun prints, a must for every new baby!

Tel: 44(0)1442 248103 Email: sales@kissykissyheaven.co.uk www.kissykissyonline.com

Kite

Lebluu

Lilly + Sid

STAND B31

STAND VB3

STAND C32

Planet-friendly kit. So organic fabrics.

Beautiful colours and prints. Relaxed styles. oughtful details. Brought to life with passion and care by the sea in Dorset.

Collections for baby and children from 0 to 11 years.

Tel: +44(0)1202 733222 Email: ally@kite-clothing.co.uk www.kite-clothing.co.uk

Lebluu is designed to do more than covering your body and being fashionable. We do amazing clothes to play.

Tel: +34 937578081 Email: info@lebluu.com www.lebluu.com

Multi award winning brand Lilly + Sid draw inspiration from the tradition of Pantomime for their AW14 collection. New pattern cutting techniques and layering pieces feature in the trend-led collection with a fun, funky, heritage twist.

Wholesale prices £5 to £16. Age range: 0-8yrs Tel: 00441788332278 Email: info@lillyandsid.com

Lucypeachslice

Toby Tiger

Young Soles

STAND G35

STAND A20

STAND VD4

Personal photographs create signature prints for this beautiful collection. Key pieces are skirts, dresses and harem trousers, while handwritten messages printed on tees complete the look for girls 2-12.

Colourful organic and ethical clothing for babies and kids up to six. Unique colourful prints and simple bold motifs give this modern brand a recognisable identity and lets kids be kids!

A children’s footwear brand that evokes memories from a bygone age, blending retro-cool with classic British styles and cramanship for children from toddler to 10 years. Shoes for Young Soles.

Tel: 07443 455472 Email: info@lucypeachslice.com www.lucypeachslice.com

Tel: +44 (0)1903 766777 Email: info@tobytiger.com www.tobytiger.com

Tel: 020 7739 6432 Email: hello@youngsoles.co.uk www.youngsoles.co.uk

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Laura Turner: What is Kissy Kissy doing to mark its 16th anniversary this year?

Roxana Castillo: We’re focused on thanking our retail partners, because we know their support has been the biggest factor in Kissy Kissy’s continued growth. We’re also promoting the brand more in the press and through bloggers to raise our visibility and secure Kissy Kissy’s position as a go-to range that new mums know and seek out by name.

LT: How has the company developed over the years?

RC: We have gone from offering a few groups with a limited variety of items to offering around 80 groupings per season, with a wide variety of items in each one. We expanded our range from prints to hand embroideries, hand smocking, knits and special occasionwear. We also brought to the collections different cotton fabric textures, including sherpa and velour.

All of this was done by working closely with and paying attention to our clients’ needs. We have also entered the international arena and are successfully selling in almost all countries in Europe including Russia, as well as Asia, the Middle East, Central America and Australia.

© MELODIE JENG

               

LT: What’s the story behind Kissy Kissy?

RC: Like many in the children’s apparel industry, Kissy Kissy started because we had a new baby on the way. My stepdaughter was pregnant with our first grandson, and I bought her Pima cotton layette items from Lima, Peru. She loved them and suggested we sell them in the US. Shortly after, we opened a store. Around a year later, we launched the Kissy Kissy line, with the idea of offering the super soft Peruvian Pima cotton in styles that were better suited to the American market and with a full range of items in each grouping so gift-givers could create complete sets.

so soft, durable and lustrous that they immediately recognise and appreciate the quality. Another main pro for me is that I am helping women and their families in Peru become and remain independent through the jobs we create. It is one of the most gratifying aspects of owning and operating Kissy Kissy.

There really is no con to producing in Peru except that now the “secret” is out about Peru and its Pima cotton, so there’s more competition working in the country. When we started, people didn’t have any idea what Pima cotton was, and we had to search to find appropriate manufacturers for the line.

LT: What led to the decision to manufacture in Peru using Pima cotton?

RC: Primarily because of the softness of the Pima cotton, but also because I wanted to give back to my country of birth, Peru. The Peruvian Pima cotton has always been a key feature for the brand that mums and gift-givers love. It is

LT: What is Kissy Kissy’s ethical stance in terms of production?

RC: Kissy Kissy is committed to bringing the best quality product to our customers while being socially responsible with regard to workers’ rights and all regulations pertaining to the environment. Our garments are produced in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Business Alliance for Secure Commerce (BASC), a partnership between business and US Customs created to promote safe international trade. The factory, freight

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forwarder and quality control company in Peru that Kissy Kissy works with all hold BASC certifications. In coordination with the quality control company in Peru, we are able to closely monitor the factories we work with to make sure they abide by Fairtrade regulations.

LT: What does Kissy Kissy’s offer comprise?

RC: Kissy Kissy spans premature through size 4T (UK four years) for boys and girls. We offer several collections that comprise everyday playwear, organic options, christeningwear, special occasionwear and accessories. Our original Kissy Kissy range offers sweet prints and pleasing colours suitable for baby’s first days, months and years. Premier adds sophisticated hand embroideries and smocking to the signature Kissy Kissy look, while Besos features exquisite, handmade christening gowns and keepsake special-occasion outfits along with coordinating knits. Qt-Qt offers a more vibrant colour palette and bolder, contemporary prints used on on-trend bodies.

And Violets Are Blue is a timeless collection of lovingly created, fashionable pieces featuring hand embroideries that are meant to be cherished. Pieces include rompers, babygros, pants and shorts sets, dresses, buntings, cardigans, blankets, bibs, booties, burp cloths and hats. Our year-round collections such as Homeward Bound – which has been a popular mainstay in the line since the beginning – includes birthday pieces, days-of-the-week items and holiday-specific looks.

LT: How would you sum up the style of the brand?

RC: Aside from Peruvian Pima cotton, Kissy Kissy fans love our signature “baby” or age-appropriate look. Kissy Kissy focuses on special, timeless prints that reflect the sweetness of a newborn baby. Classic themes, including florals, nautical, sports, animals, construction and stripes, get an update each season, and make the collection universally appealing. Smocking and hand embroidery are the special finishing touches on many pieces in the line. For s/s 14, Kissy Kissy courts the crib-and-bib set with hearts, including the inflatables aloft in Qt-Qt Heart Balloon, pastel delights in Sweet Hearts and the delicious candy heart boxes in Kissy Sweets. For more girly options, flowers flatter throughout the line starting with the pink buds in Baby Hearts & Roses and the garden in full bloom in Summer Splendor. The spring range engages the boys with a nautical nod with vintage sailing apparatus in Maritime, Schooners’ lighthouse lookout and boats galore in Navigator. And what little boy isn’t attracted to things in motion? The brand introduces highways full of busy vehicles in Traffic Jam, stop-and-go fun in Punch Buggy and fast times in Qt-Qt Racer. Unisex options focus on the things babies love most such as the alphabet building blocks in Playtime, bathtime pals in Rubber Ducky and fuzzy friends in Qt-Qt Teddy Bears. For brother and sister photo opportunities, the Regal Baby grouping acknowledges our affection for the royal baby, Organic Teddy provides an eco-friendly spin and Twin Bunnies is the perfect pairing for multiples. As you can

imagine, we offer a wide variety of pink and blue. The hues range from sweet to saturated.

You’ll also find green, red, yellow and ecru.

LT: What is the brand’s market level and core customer?

RC: Kissy Kissy is sold in mid-to-luxury level boutiques and department stores. Its core customer is the mum, grandmother and gift-giver who is looking to cherish those first days with baby as a special time that will pass quickly. She wants items that will flatter the baby and be comfortable to wear. Pieces that are perfect for impromptu photo opportunities.

And she’s looking for value. She wants to know the garments she picks will last.

LT: What are the brand’s bestsellers?

RC: Our Homeward Bound collection, which features four prints (ducks, frogs, hearts, and moon and stars) with coordinating gingham pieces, has been the core of the Kissy Kissy line for many years. The prints are fun, relatable, simple and undeniably baby. Stripes have also emerged as a favourite in our line. In terms of items, our babygros are essentials for new parents. They provide babies with maximum comfort, they’re convenient and offer head-to-toe style.

LT: What is the distribution of Kissy Kissy?

RC: Kissy Kissy is sold throughout the US, Europe, the UK, Japan, Russia, China, South Korea, Australia, Mexico, the Middle East and Northern Africa, and we’re continuing to focus on opening additional accounts in Central and South America. In addition to numerous independent childrenswear stores, Kissy Kissy is sold in notable retailers such as Harrods in the UK, Le Bon Marché in Paris, Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong, Mitsukoshi in Tokyo, Mercury in Moscow, ABC Stores in Beirut, Bloomingdales in Dubai and the US, as well as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman in the US. LT: How many accounts does the label have?

RC: Kissy Kissy has over 130 clients in the UK. We’re working closely with Finest for Baby, our agent based in London, to expand the UK as well as the European markets. They have a beautiful display of our full Kissy Kissy line in their showroom in Hertfordshire. Worldwide, meanwhile, Kissy Kissy is in upwards of 2,000 doors.

LT: Would extending the age range ever be an option for Kissy Kissy?

RC: Anything is possible. We always look to our retailer partners when making decisions about additions and expansions. But, at this time, we don’t have any plans for expanding the size range.

LT: Will the brand open standalone stores?

RC: We’re not interested in standalone stores.

As a former retailer, I always look for ways to protect my retail partners. Opening a store

would put us in direct competition with them so it’s not something we have plans to do.

LT: Does Kissy Kissy have a celebrity fan base?

RC: Though we don’t actively court celebrities, we do have a few A-list fans who have chosen our brand for everyday wear, high-profile photo shoots and special occasions. The list includes Liv Tyler, Katie Holmes, Drew Barrymore, Elton John, Nicole Kidman, Matt Damon, Molly Sims, Celine Dion and Salma Hayek.

LT: What’s key for a/w 14?

RC: For a/w 14 we will focus on mixing texture, prints and embroidery. In addition to the cosy velours that mums and babies love in our line, we’ll add looks that combine elegant knits with mercerized cotton. New accents will include sheer ribbons and fabric flowers. Plus, we’ll continue to offer coordinating prints that are perfect options for multiples and brother and sister looks. Also key are whimsical neutrals to satisfy the growing number of parents opting not to find out the baby’s gender in advance.

LT: What are the short and long term plans for the brand?

RC: In terms of the UK market, we will focus on the things that have made Kissy Kissy the number one selling brand in the UK – quality product and outstanding customer service.

This way, we’re always focused on helping our retail partners succeed. Overall, we plan to continue to focus on our core business, which is providing our retail partners with the best quality baby clothes and accessories across a wide variety of collections. Beyond product, we will continue to offer outstanding customer service and protect the rights of everyone along our supply chain.

â—?

November/December 2013

ď€‡ď€€ď€ƒď€„ď€ ď€…ď€‚ď€ ď€†ď€€ď€‡

BEAU LOVES

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THE LITTLE GALLERY 11-13 January 2014 Botschaft, Cecilienallee 5, 40474 Düsseldorf www.the-little-gallery.de After the successful premiere of The Little Gallery at the Botschaft venue in Düsseldorf this summer, the second edition of the event returns for a/w 14.

The show is set to present around 70 exhibitors and 150 brands offering mid-range and premium collections from the kids’ and teens’ fashion segments, alongside maternitywear, accessories and lifestyle products.

To round-off the event, various supporting programmes will be available including fashion shows, trend lectures in cooperation with WGSN, and a Fashion Talk by fashion trade publication TextilWirtschaft.

CHILDREN’S CLUB 12-14 January 2014 Pier 92, 711 12th Ave, New York 10019 www.enkshows.com/childrensclub Children’s Club encompasses every category of children’s fashion from newborn to 12 years of age including layette items, fashion accessories, footwear, toys and gifts.

Expecting 300-plus exhibitors, the event will welcome back brands including Ralph Lauren, Room Seven, DKNY, 3 Pommes, Kissy Kissy, Bloch, Appaman, IKKS and Eliane et Lena.

The January edition of Children’s Club will see the return of its concept project, Kids Shop. Developed as both an on-site and social-media initiative, Kids Shop allows children to play the role of retail buyers and models; exhibitors pitch their new collections to the children, who can then model their selections in a pop-up photo studio within the show.

TOP DRAWER SPRING 12-14 January 2014 Earl’s Court 1, London SW5 www.topdrawer.co.uk As well as gifts, fashion accessories, stationery and greetings, homeware and wellbeing goods, Top Drawer’s offer also includes children’s products, toys and games.

Brands include Believe You Can, Great Gizmos, Little Shrimp, Olive & Moss, Sew Heart Felt and Starchild.

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PITTI BIMBO 16-18 January 2014 Fortezza da Basso, Florence www.pittimmagine.com The world of children’s fashion meets in Florence on 16-18 January for the 78th edition of Pitti Bimbo. The show’s offer comprises big names in the Pitti Bimbo section, independent labels in the New View and EcoEthic areas, sportswear in Sport Generation, the urban atmosphere of SuperStreet, and the avant-garde styling of Apartment. Accessories, toys and furnishings are also on offer.

Reflecting Pitti Bimbo’s aim to broaden its international scope, this season’s brand line-up will see 177 of the 450 expected collections coming from outside Italy. Equally, to attract more international buyers, the show is broadening its focus to include the worlds of accessories and design.

The theme this season is Rock Me Pitti, which will enliven the event with performances and installations, images and cult objects related to the world of music. Also, don’t miss the exhibition’s renowned and impressive line-up of catwalk shows.

KLEINE FABRIEK 19-20 January 2014 Amsterdam RAI, Amsterdam www.kleinefabriek.nl Taking place in Hall 8 of Amsterdam RAI this season will be the 18th edition of Kleine Fabriek, offering children’s fashion and lifestyle product from brands such as IKKS, aden + anais, Cost:bart, Geisha Jeans, Sophie de Giraf, Hevea, Shanghai Toys, Snoozebaby, Tattyoo, Le Big, Redskins, Velveteen and My Little Babyrock.

The show, as always, will be divided into clear segments, including stages for start-ups. In the previous edition, the Object+ area for lifestyle product such as bedding, furniture, interior accessories and toys, introduced a “basic stand” concept for exhibitors with small-scale products or collections. This season will see the concept further revamped.

Elsewhere, the Star area will showcase children’s fashion, clothing, shoes and accessories labels with a unique, designer look, as well as providing a key area for new, exclusive brands. There will also be Blueprint, the area for labels whose core is denim, and Industry, which focuses on brands for kids and teenagers as well as product launches. Pop-up shops, speakers and trend presentations will also be available.

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PLAYTIME PARIS 25-27 January 2014 Parc Floral de Paris www.playtimeparis.com Playtime Paris is set to present around 400 exhibitors for a/w 14, offering childrenswear, footwear, accessories, toys, gifts, furniture, baby goods and maternitywear.

New signings include Chinche, Mambotango, Boba Family, Piculus, My Little Factory, Beau Loves, Malvi & Co and Belle Enfant.

These can be found alongside key returns such as Miller, Bellerose, Pois Plume, Seraphine Maternity, Kik-Kid, Bellybutton and Isabella Oliver.

Highlights, meanwhile, include the Play With Design Event, which sees projects presented from 10 designers supported by a design professional. These designers – selected for their style being likely to incite innovation and translate well to children’s product – present their projects based on pre-established themes and materials and showcase their perspectives. Partnerships with one – or several – manufacturers then allow for the production of prototypes, inciting a dialogue between designer and industry.

BUBBLE LONDON 26-27 January 2014 Business Design Centre, Islington www.bubblelondon.com Since its launch in 2008, Bubble London, the UK’s only dedicated show for children’s clothing, gifts and interiors, has built a reputation as a hub for new and emerging talent. This is something the exhibition continues to advocate with its a/w 14 edition, which will provide an all-encompassing line-up of 280 exhibitors of clothing, accessories, beauty, footwear, gifts, interiors, maternity, toys, Fairtrade and a strong organic offer.

New exhibitors this season include Artesania Carmina, Caracoteen, Cotton Baby, Doodle Do, Hug and Hatch, Jujube, Lebluu, Little Angels, Little Punk London, Wild Things, Love Frankie, NatureZoo of Denmark, Petites Pattes, Pipi Rabbit, Piupia, RaspberryPlum, Wedoble and Young Soles London. Returning names, meanwhile, include I Love Gorgeous, Dimity Bourke, Milk & Biscuits, Ruff & Huddle, Beau Loves, Aden + Anais, Little Bu, Bjorn Borg, Rachel Riley, Albetta, Wolf & Rita and Molo.

As a direct response to the increasing number of new businesses choosing to exhibit at the show, Bubble is introducing a new guide this season titled The Bubble Effect. The Bubble Effect is a practical guide that will be distributed to support all exhibiting brands in maximising the marketing and PR opportunities Bubble London presents. The document is targeted primarily at new brands and small businesses, but will be issued to all exhibitors as a useful reference point. The Bubble Effect joins other incentives, such as the exhibition’s Rising Star competition, in providing added exposure and celebrating collections that are launching to market at the show. Other support agendas for a/w 14 include the business seminar programme, which runs throughout the event, with further plans to be revealed in the January issue of CWB magazine.

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CIFF KIDS 30 January – 1 February 2014 Bella Center, Center Boulevard 5, Copenhagen www.ciff.dk Children’s fashion fair CIFF Kids is set to showcase 150 exhibitors and around 300 brands for its a/w 14 edition.

New names this season include Shampoodle, Heveababy, MP Socks, Ida T, Jetpaq and Garcia, alongside regular exhibitors such as Soft Gallery, New Generals, Ver De Terre, Pom Pom, Petit Nord, FUB and Sebra.

Don’t miss the a/w 14 fashion shows by New Generals and Petit

by Sophie Schnoor and a networking social event for exhibitors, buyers and press on Friday 31 January.

CFC – CHILDREN’S FASHION COLOGNE 30 January – 1 February 2014 Koelnmesse GmbH, Messeplatz 1, 50679 Cologne, Germany www.cfc-cologne.com Following its premier in July 2013 as “the central business and order platform of the German and international industry”, CFC will embark on its second edition for a/w 14 offering children’s, baby and maternity fashion.

Set to house around 200 brands at Koelnmesse GmbH, the show will play host to exhibitors including 4BB2, 4funkyflavours, aden + anais, Archimède Beachwear, Attesa Maternity, Babyface, Bergh per principesse, Boys & Girls, Cakewalk, Disney, Gas Junior, Gsus, Hust & Claire, Inch Blue, Jottum, Lässig, Lemmi, Mexx, Tumble ’N Dry and Tutto Piccolo.

Attractions at the event will include specialised lectures with subsequent discussion panels. The Pimp my Shop campaign will also return, providing small and medium-sized retailers the opportunity to have their store concept reviewed by industry experts from the shop design and sales promotion sectors, as well as gain support in optimally presenting goods in-store.

LITTLE BARCELONA 2-3 February 2014 Convent dels Angels C/ Dels Angels, 7, Barcelona www.littlebarcelona.com Little Barcelona is the trade show that changes venue each season. Entering its fifth edition in February, the event is expecting over 50 exhibitors, who will present up to 70 collections across childrenswear, footwear, accessories, gifts and decor. New this season will also be exhibitors offering industry services such as website designers to retailers.

This season, Little Barcelona will provide exhibitors with courses designed to help improve their businesses in areas such as product design, marketing, sales, exporting and importing. The courses are organised especially for the show by Barcelona’s City Council through its entrepreneurs’ institution, Barcelona Activa. Fashion shows, workshops and activities for children will also be available.

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November/December 2013

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INDEPENDENT KIDS 16-17 February 2014 Cranmore Park, Solihull www.independentkids.co.uk This season’s edition of Independent Kids, taking place at the recently developed Cranmore Park in Solihull, will play host to around 50 exhibitors and 100 collections across the categories of childrenswear, accessories and christeningwear.

New exhibitors for a/w 14 include Joules, Bamboo Baby and Dirkje Babywear, alongside this season’s exclusive signings of Pretty Originals, Blue Seven, Flyers, Carodel and Peppermint. Key returns, meanwhile, include Mayoral, Frugi, Lilly & Sid, Kite and Levi’s.

After the first day of the show, Independent Kids will host drinks and nibbles on-site, with all visitors and exhibitors welcome to attend.

PLAYTIME TOKYO 25-27 February 2014 Belle Salle Shibuya Garden, Tokyo www.playtimetokyo.com Playtime Tokyo is set to offer around 235 collections in February, covering children’s fashion, footwear, accessories, gifts, furniture, baby goods and maternitywear.

New exhibitors at the forthcoming edition include Tuchinda and Tidi alongside returning names such as Ami Amie, Noch Mini, f.s. baby and Melissa.

MODA FOOTWEAR 16-18 February 2014 NEC, Birmingham www.moda-uk.co.uk More than 400 brands assemble at Moda Footwear each season, offering the largest variety of new season styles from across the globe. With a selection unrivalled by any other UK show, Moda Footwear is the key buying event in the country as well as the UK’s largest gathering of children’s footwear collections.

Exhibitors offering children’s shoes this season include Lelli Kelly, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Bobux, Chipmunks, Froddo, Noel France, Richter, XTI Kids, Danco, Skechers, Primigi, Garvalin, Pineapple, Petasil and Gumbies.

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November/December 2013

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CPM KIDS 25-28 February 2014 Expocentre Fairgrounds, Moscow www.cpm-moscow.com CPM Kids is the childrenswear section of the Russian fashion trade show, CPM Collection Première Moscow. The event, which collectively covers womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, leather goods, swim and beachwear, hosiery and accessories, saw 19,300 trade visitors over the four-day event last season.

In terms of childrenswear, CPM Kids will offer around 320 collections, playing host to international names such as Boboli, Hilfiger Kids, Hugo Boss, Kanz, Kenzo, Little Marc Jacobs and Sterntaler together with daily catwalk shows.

LITTLE FASHION WEEK 28 February – 2 March 2014 Tour & Taxis, Avenue du Port 86c, Brussels, 1000, Belgium www.littlefashionweek.com

PLAYTIME NEW YORK 8-10 March 2014 23 Wall Street, New York 10005, New York www.playtimenewyork.com The New York edition of Playtime takes place on 8-10 March, covering children’s fashion, footwear, accessories, soft toys, gifts, décor and furniture. With an exhibitor list of around 120, new signings to date include Louisa Misha and Project Five Kids, with returns including Atsuyo et Akiko, Little Creative Factory and Velveteen. Highlights include a conference hosted by children’s fashion magazine, Earnshaw’s, on the last day of the show.

Launching its first edition this season is Little Fashion Week. Hosted at the Tour & Taxis venue in Brussels, the event will present around 100 exhibitors, bringing together designers, illustrators, stylists and professionals from the world of children’s fashion. Exhibitors signed for this season’s show include Paade Mode, Teeny Tini, Fred Petit, Lapin & Me, Rose Couture, Wild-Child, Little Vintage Lovers, Caramel Baby & Child and Cotton and Milk.

Highlights include a line-up of fashion shows running across the first two days of the event. Alongside the fashion shows will be the “changing rooms”, where each brand is allocated its own space to allow buyers to see the collections, meet the brands and place orders. The last day of the event is also opened to the public to provide a platform for brands to sell unsold stock to the public for direct profit.

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  01 Scotch Shrunk 02 Mayoral 03 Bob & Blossom

01 Emile et Rose

03 Frugi

02 Kissy Kissy

Bestselling babywear brands

Lelli Kelly

Hunter

Bestselling boyswear brands

Daisy Roots

01 Scotch R’Belle 02 Molo

03 Mayoral

Bestselling footwear brands

01 Djeco

02 Minene

03 Kaloo

Bestselling toy and gift brands

Bestselling girlswear brands 

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November/December 2013

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01: THE BLACK RABBIT

02: KITSCH KITCHEN

03: DOT & CO

Lambswool knitted teddies ÂŁ11 each 07866 467710

Dog on wheels ¤7.15 07968 145440

Foxy and Friends blanket ÂŁ8.45 01274 592647

04: ZOOCCHINI

05: JENNIE MAIZELS

06: CLOCKWORK SOLDIER

Owl hooded towel Price on request www.zoocchini.com

Beano iron-on patches ÂŁ3.90 01794 368006

Pet puppets ÂŁ2.70 0844 482 1775

ď€?ď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€ˆď€Žď€†ď€ ď€€ď€ƒď€‰ď€‰ď€€ď€Œď€?ď€ˆď€„ď€†ď€Žď€€ď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€‡ď€‹ď€‰ď€†ď€Žď€ƒď€‰ď€†

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VILLERVALLA £21.80, 020 8672 2391 —

BARBOUR £49.55, 0800 009 988 —

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       



CRAGHOPPERS £38.90, 0161 749 1300 —

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DIDRIKSONS £34.20, 01275 390451 —

ISBJÖRN OF SWEDEN £47.60, 077 33 301 345 —

NAME IT £16.80, 0161 836 6824 —

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November/December 2013

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37: News 38: Cut your losses Transforming the traditional name tag into a Smart Tag using QR Technology 40: Innovative add-ons for school School accessories with a little added extra 41: Fitting into the schoolwear sector AlvaKids – the UK’s first mobile and online application to help consumers buy “best fit� schoolwear

MARATHON SCHOOL SUPPLIES

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November/December 2013

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Kathryn Shuttleworth has been appointed commercial director for leading school uniform and sportswear supplier David Luke.

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Over the last 12 years, Shuttleworth has built up extensive, first-hand experience of the company’s various departments. For the last four years, she has been based in the finance department. While retaining those responsibilities, she has most recently been working alongside David Luke’s sales director, Richard Moody.

Independent schoolwear retailer Brenda’s is relocating its Farnborough shop in the New Year.

Established in 1949, the business, which has two stores, is merging into one premises. Brenda’s Farnborough, therefore, is closing to be amalgamated into the retailer’s much larger – and more spacious – Camberley store.

Due for completion on 2 January 2014, the Camberley store will provide increased stock-holding capacity, two spacious custom-designed floors, eight changing rooms, four till points and customer parking to the front and rear.

ď€ƒď€?ď€•ď€†ď€€ď€Žď€‚ď€˜ď€€ď€ƒď€‚ď€?ď€? ď€?ď€? The founder of Trowbridge firm Blue Max Banner has retired after 26 years running the schoolwear, sportswear and work clothing business.

Despite retiring, in order to ensure she remains part of company policy decisions going forward, Mary Fawcus will adopt the role of non-executive director, assigning one to two days per week to Blue Max Banner business development and customer liaison.

Blue Max Banner will remain a family business at heart, with Fawcus’ husband David continuing in his full-time role as Blue Max Banner chief executive, her daughter as purchasing director, and her son-in-law continuing to manage the marketing and export side of the business.

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Utilising her overview of the business, Shuttleworth’s initial tasks as commercial director are overseeing an upgrade to the company’s computer system and developing the David Luke Eco range, including stock flow and planning for demand.

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Building on its activewear range for adults, fitness brand Spiro has launched a junior range for school PE lessons.

Using the same highly engineered performance fabrics as the adult collection, the children’s range offers wicking and windproof properties, and is held in stock all-year-round.

Nottingham school uniform and sportswear supplier Price & Buckland is teaming up with SPC Printers to kit out the GB Freestyle Kayak Team in its latest range, PB Sport.

Garments available include a lightweight, Junior Quick Dry T-shirt with performance-base layer available in sizes 5-6 years to 11-12 years, with matching Junior Bodyfit Base Layer Shorts in a micro-stretch soft athletic fabric. To complete the look is the Junior Skort. Available in black or navy in sizes 5-6 to 11-12 years, it offers an alternative to traditional sports skirts and gym pants and includes a reflective Spiro print logo.

Initially looking for knitwear for a local school, Kevin Parsons, director of SPC Printers, was so impressed with the samples from Price & Buckland, which included its new sportswear PB Sport, that he subsequently presented them to the GB Freestyle Kayak Team.

ď€?   ď€&#x; ď€°ď€ąď€€ď€¤ď€´ď€¤ď€­ď€˛ď€ƒ    ď€°ď€ˇď€€ď€ˆď€†ď€‡ď€Šď€€  ď€?ď€? ď€–ď€Žď€­ď€Łď€Žď€­ď€ťď€ąď€€ď€•ď€ąď€Ťď€¨ď€­ď€Śď€˛ď€Žď€­ď€ƒď€€ď€ľď€¨ď€Ťď€Ťď€€ď€Ąď€°ď€¨ď€­ď€Ś                    ď€Ľď€¨ď€Śď€łď€°ď€¤ď€ąď€€ď€Ľď€°ď€Žď€Źď€€ď€˛ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€ąď€¤ď€˘ď€˛ď€Žď€°ď€ƒď€€ď€˛ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€¤ď€´ď€¤ď€­ď€˛       

Price & Buckland has provided 24 kits to the team, consisting of a new sport tracksuit top and bottoms, as well as matching polo shirts, all decorated with the Team GB logo.

ď€?ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€œď€˘ď€§ď€Žď€Žď€Ťď€ľď€¤ ď€? ď€˛ď€¨ď€Žď€­ď€€ď€ ď€œď€?    ď€?ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€œď€˘ď€§ď€Žď€Žď€Ťď€ľď€¤ ď€°ď€€ď€œď€§ď€Žď€ľď€€ ď€?   ď€°ď€Şď€ƒď€€ď€œď€Žď€Ťď€¨ď€§ď€łď€Ťď€Ťď€ƒď€€ď€°   ď€šď€‰ď€ƒď€Œď€†ď€†ď€€ď€˛ď€Žď€€ď€Ąď€¤ď€€ď€łď€ąď€¤ď€Łď€€ď€Ąď€ˇď€€ď€˛ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€œď€?      ď€¨ď€Ťď€¤ď€°ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€ľď€§ď€Žď€Ťď€¤ď€ą    ď€łď€­ď€¨ď€Ľď€Žď€°ď€Źď€…ď€€ď€šď€°ď€¨ď€¸ď€¤ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€Łď€Žď€­  ď€œď€?  ď€´ď€Žď€Ťď€łď€­ď€˛ď€¤ď€¤ď€°ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€¨ď€­ď€˘ď€Ťď€łď€Łď€¤ď€Łď€€   ď€Şď€ƒď€€ď€Łď€°ď€¨ď€´ď€¨ď€­ď€Śď€€ď€¤ď€śď€Żď€¤ď€°ď€¨ď€¤ď€­ď€˘ď€¤ď€ƒ   ď€ˇď€€ď€Ľď€Žď€°ď€€ď€˛ď€ľď€Žď€ƒď€€ď€˘ď€°ď€¤  ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€˘     

ď€?ď€§ď€¤ď€€ď€­ď€¤ď€śď€˛ď€€ď€˜  ď€?    ď€?   ď€?  ď€ ď€Žď€¨ď€°     ď€ˆď€†ď€‡ď€Šď€€  ď€°ď€ąď€€ď€”ď€Žď€˛ď€¤ď€Ťď€ƒ ď€?  ď€?   ď€ˇď€€ď€˘ď€Žď€­ď€Ľď€¤ď€°ď€¤ď€­ď€˘ď€¤ď€ƒ         ď€ąď€¤ď€˘ď€˛ď€Žď€°ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€¨ď€­ď€˘ď€Ťď€łď€Łď€¤ď€€ď€§ď€Žď€ľď€€ď€˛ď€Žď€€ď€Żď€Žď€ľď€¤ď€°  ď€Ťď€¤ď€ąď€ƒď€€ď€°ď€¤ď€Łď€łď€˘ď€¤ď€€ď€Žď€´ď€¤ď€°ď€§ď€¤         

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November/December 2013

ď ƒď€€ď€Ąď€Ł ď€?ď€˜ď€€ď ƒ

ď€™ď€ąď€ľď€Źď€€ď€žď€żď€€ď€œď€ąď€şď€€ď€°ď€Šď€šď€€ď€şď€Šď€˛ď€­ď€ľď€€ď€şď€°ď€­ď€€ď€Ťď€śď€ľď€Ťď€­ď€ˇď€şď€€ď€śď€Žď€€ď€şď€°ď€­ď€€ď€şď€¸ď€Šď€Źď€ąď€şď€ąď€śď€ľď€Šď€łď€€ď€ľď€Šď€´ď€­ď€€ď€şď€Šď€Żď€€ď€Žď€śď€¸ď€€ď€šď€Ťď€°ď€śď€śď€ł     Losing school uniform items, sports kits and everyday school essentials is an all too common problem and a very real and expensive issue for parents. Find My Kit, founded in May 2012 by Andrew Britton and Mark Reed, aims to enhance the opportunity of retrieving lost items with something it calls the Smart Tag. Smart Tags work quite differently to the conventional and traditional name label, with Find My Kit using a combination of QR technology coupled with an advanced PET (polyethylene terephalate) based material to create a durable Smart Tag solution. The Smart Tag comes in the form of either a machine-washable iron-on label or dishwasher-safe sticker and, as well as bearing the owner’s name in the traditional format, features a QR code (Quick Response Code). The QR code is a matrix barcode that carries encoded information embedded within it, which is revealed when scanned, thus allowing a greater storage capacity in one little label.

Each set of Smart Tags carries the user’s own individually designed QR code, specific to

them. On registering contact details, an individual QR code is automatically generated and the Smart Tags are processed.

Lost items bearing a Smart Tag can then be scanned, and an automatic email notification and/or SMS text is delivered to the registered owner. In terms of cost, the end user pays for the number of Smart Tags they need, and included in this price are the first 10 SMS text notifications. If the 10 SMS texts are used, further texts can be purchased.

However, all email notifications are free of charge and the system is free for the affiliate to use.

continues. “The system is browser-based, free for the school to use, and we provide the necessary hand scanner. We also make a donation of ÂŁ1 to the school for every pupil that signs up, and therefore we are also able to contribute financially towards the schools in our community. We recently donated ÂŁ385 to Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, for instance, which subsidised a new set of goalposts.â€?

“In essence, we have updated the traditional school name tag to a Smart Tag using QR technology while also utilising a polymer-based material,� says company director Gareth Davies, who joined Find My Kit in April 2013. “The result is an extremely durable name tag – a similar process to that employed by Nike and Disney for labelling purposes.

On purchasing Smart Tags, parents register their contact details with Find My Kit. When a lost item is found by an affiliate of the network – be that the child’s school, a train or bus company, a sports club or, more commonly, another school after a sporting fixture – it is scanned. An automatic email and or SMS message is then sent to the parent advising them of the lost item, the location and point of retrieval. This means, therefore, that Find My Kit has to establish a wide network of affiliates, beyond schools, to further secure chances of recovering lost items.

“We currently offer the Smart Tag in both iron-on and sticker format, but we also have keyrings and bag tags available, too,� he

“Of course, a high percentage of property is lost while travelling to and from school, so our relationships with local bus companies

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November/December 2013

39

 

   

and sports clubs enhance the potential for retrieval,” says Davies. “It also solves the issue for those companies, too, who can tailor their personal message so items can be picked up within a certain time frame.”

Find My Kit currently has 35 schools and organisations signed to its service – that’s 2,000 users resulting in 400,000 tags potentially in circulation – and it is in conversation with a further 43. Cost is a huge issue in schools. But, as the service is free for affiliates to use, and the tags themselves are no more expensive than the traditional on a tag-for-tag basis, the main stumbling block for Find My Kit so far has been attaining the right contacts within the schools to promote the product. Once connected with the right people, however, the company has experienced a reassuring 95 per cent take-up of the system.

In terms of growth for the business going forward, Find My Kit is actively targeting schoolwear independents to offer Smart Tags as a bolt-on product in-store and promote the service within their client base on a commission-per-pack-sold basis. Davies sees this as the quickest route-to-market, with the retailers having established often long-standing relationships with their schools. Essentially, the retailers already have a foot in the door.

“We are engaged in several conversations with independent outfitters at the moment, one of which is Ian Margetson of The Schoolwear Centre in Margate, which is about to offer our Smart Tags in-store. We feel this structure is the least complicated and, given the relationships, he has already established within 75 schools, it will give us penetration of the market that would take us several months to achieve.”

Having designed and manufactured tags for the next generation, taking the traditional name tag and developing it into a Smart Tag, the next move for the company is launching a Find My Kit app. This will extend the service further by allowing an “authorised” individual, for example the head coach of a local Judo club, access to scanning, thereby greatly increasing the points of “retrieval”.

For security reasons, only registered organisations are able to scan the tags and, if scanned by a member of the public, they will be directed to Find My Kit’s homepage.

Undoubtedly, school children have more high-value belongings on their person than they may have done in past generations,

therefore raising the need, in some cases, for a more “high-tech” and reliable system for retrieving belongings. The son of Find My Kit’s co-founder Andrew Britton, in fact, lost a school blazer containing keys – both locker and house – his catering card, bus pass and, unbeknown to his sister, her iPod. It is a clear example of how the cost of lost school belongings can escalate easily beyond the cost, in this instance, of a replacement blazer, to all the added cost related to items in the blazer. Equally, given the prevailing economic climate, it was very apparent to Davies that today’s financial constraints mean replacing lost items is becoming more difficult for parents and, in some cases, parents are unable to replace items, with children having to “go without”.

Find My Kit’s answer to the next generation’s lost property problems is, therefore, the Smart Tag. www.findmykit.com

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November/December 2013

ď€œď€€ď€†ď€‡ď€…ď€„ď€‰ď€ƒď€ˆď€€ď€œ

ď€ƒď€Šď€‚ď€›ď€—ď€€ď€•ď€‘ď€Œď€’ď€€ď€”ď€?ď€€ď€—ď€Œď€?ď€”ď€”ď€“ď€€ď€‹ď€Œď€Œď€Žď€—ď€—ď€”ď€–ď€‘ď€Žď€—ď€€ď€™ď€‘ď€˜ď€?ď€€ď€‹ď€€ď€“ď€‘ď€˜ď€˜ď€“ď€Žď€€ď€‹ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€€ď€Žď€šď€˜ď€–ď€‹ď€

WILLIAM TURNER

ONYA BAGS Onya Bags’ reusable lunch bag, Onya Lunch, is made from recycled bottles and comes in a choice of five colours. Complete with a name window and a Velcro fastener, Onya Lunch offers a waste-free and sustainable alternative to cling film or tin foil and also doubles up as a mat to eat over. It is adjustable and will accommodate both large and small lunches. www.onyabags.co.uk

William Turner is the manufacturer and distributor of the Backcare Active Backpack, which is the only bag endorsed by BackCare, the charity researching children’s back health.

Designed with back protection in mind with its patented, curved underside, the Backcare Active Backpack helps spread the load, with ergonomic carrying straps, a lightweight profiled back panel and carrying advice printed internally. The backpack, which comes in sizes small and large, is available from stock in black and navy and is suitable for print and embroidery. For every bag sold, a contribution goes to BackCare. www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk

TOUGHEES Toughees’ non-polish leather school shoes take the effort out of caring for footwear due to a coating that provides extra protection and shine, requiring just a wipe with a damp cloth to keep the shoes shiny. Manufactured in South Africa since 1954 and introduced to the UK market four years ago, the mid-priced leather school footwear brand currently sells more than four million pairs of school shoes a year. Toughees is distributed in the UK by New Brands. www.newbrandslimited.co.uk

STAMPTASTIC Stamptastic offers a new solution to labelling school uniform, sportswear and belongings with an easy-to-use, personalised name stamp that can be accurately positioned and printed on any surface including fabric, wood, plastic or metal. Stamptastic stamps can be personalised with names up to 22 letters long, and the ink is designed to endure repeated washing, wear and tear. Intended as a one-off purchase, each stamp and ink pad is designed to last for years. www.stamptastic.co.uk

CARIBEE Caribee’s Ice Breaker school bag includes a host of useful features including a cooler compartment in the front pocket to keep sandwiches fresh and drinks cool, and a Predator whistle for added safety. Constructed to withstand the rough and tumble of daily school life, the bag also has an action back extreme harness system, an organiser panel and a dedicated audio pocket with cord port. www.caribee-uk.com

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November/December 2013

41

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ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€™ď€Žď€‘ď€›ď€¤ď€œď€€ď€‘ď€?ď€?ď€•ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€™ď€’ď€€ď€?ď€? ď€? ď€ ď€€ď€?ď€?ď€›ď€‘ď€–ď€€ď€œď€•ď€Łď€•ď€˜ď€“ď€€ď€?ď€˜ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€&#x;ď€?ď€˜ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€–ď€?ď€žď€˜ď€?ď€?ď€? ď€?ď€&#x;ď€‘ď€–ď€™ď€šď€—ď€‘ď€˜ď€?ď€?ď€œď€€ď€„ď€–ď€&#x;ď€?ď€?ď€œď€€ď€?ď€šď€šď€ ď€€ ď€?ď€&#x;ď€?ď€‘ď€œď€€ď€œď€•ď€Łď€•ď€˜ď€“ď€€ď€›ď€‘ď€?ď€™ď€—ď€—ď€‘ď€˜ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€•ď€™ď€˜ď€œď€€ď€’ď€™ď€›ď€€ď€?ď€?ď€›ď€‘ď€˜ď€¤ď€œď€€ď€?ď€?ď€”ď€•ď€˜ď€“ď€€ď€™ď€˜ď€–ď€•ď€˜ď€‘ď€€ď€™ď€› ď€•ď€˜ď€‚ď€œď€?ď€™ď€›ď€‘ď€ƒď€€ď€†ď€˜ď€™ ď€˜ď€€ď€?ď€œď€€ď€„ď€–ď€&#x;ď€?ď€?ď€œď€€ď€’ď€™ď€›ď€€ď€Šď€?ď€”ď€™ď€™ď€–ď€€ď€Œď€˜ď€•ď€’ď€™ď€›ď€—ď€œď€ ď€€ď€?ď€”ď€•ď€œď€€ď€–ď€?ď€?ď€‘ď€œď€?ď€&#x;ď€‘ď€›ď€œď€•ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€™ď€’ď€€ď€?ď€”ď€‘ď€€ď€œď€‘ď€›ď€&#x;ď€?ď€‘ď€€ď€•ď€œď€€ď€?ď€”ď€‘ď€€ď€Œď€†ď€¤ď€œď€€ď€’ď€•ď€›ď€œď€? ď€šď€”ď€™ď€˜ď€‘ď€€ď€?ď€˜ď€?ď€€ď€™ď€˜ď€–ď€•ď€˜ď€‘ď€€ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€•ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€?ď€?ď€™ď€˜ď€œď€žď€—ď€‘ď€›ď€œď€€ď€Ľď€Žď€žď€˘ď€€ď€Žď€‘ď€œď€?ď€?ď€Śď€€ď€œď€? ď€?ď€›ď€ƒď€€ The new schoolwear app from global apparel sizing and fit expert Alvanon is the result of years of research worldwide into real human shapes and sizes. Most recently, the company analysed the 3D body shape scans of 2,500 children aged between four and 17 in England, Scotland and Wales as part of the Shape GB children’s sizing survey, a collaborative project with survey specialist Select Research. This data, combined with Alvanon’s existing database of UK children’s body scans, has enabled the company to develop its AlvaKids app for school uniforms.

The AlvaKids app for children’s fashion was launched in November 2012, and in trials at New York department store Cookie’s Kids, 97 per cent of parents surveyed said they would “recommend others to use the app�, 90 per cent said they would be “more confident to shop for childrenswear without their children�, and 72 per cent said they would “share their children’s profiles with family and friends to enable them to buy the right sized clothes for their children�.

AlvaKids is available to consumers as a free download app from the Apple Store and as an online widget to major childrenswear high-street and online retail groups, with the Android version available in mid-December.

The widget will allow retailers and brands to create brand-specific sizing recommendations for consumers in-store and on their e-commerce websites.

The principle of AlvaKids is that parents build a simple body shape profile for each child by entering key data points in the AlvaKids mobile app, or through a retailer’s e-commerce website. The data is used by AlvaKids proprietary algorithm to create a personalised sizing recommendation for any of the brands contained in the database, although users will also be able to suggest new brands to add to the system. A key feature of the app is that once the child’s profile has been created, the personal data in the profile will grow automatically with the child, so accurate size recommendations can be accessed both now and in the future.

Now, Alvanon is including school uniform in its remit, following the company’s debut at this year’s Schoolwear Show held at Cranmore Park, Solihull, in October. Alvanon previewed one of its latest projects, AlvaKids for School Uniforms, which is the UK’s first dedicated garment sizing mobile phone and online application for school uniform.

Alvanon’s director of research and development, Jonathan Wang, heads the

company’s newest consumer mobile and e-commerce applications, including AlvaKids for School Uniforms, and was in attendance at the Schoolwear Show to present the application and gain direct feedback from those working in the schoolwear sector. “During the show we met over 200 schoolwear professionals,� says Wang. “The discussions we had with them significantly enhanced our understanding of this specialist sector, and confirmed that our AlvaKids product has a crucial role to play in delivering a better fit experience for schoolwear retailers, brands, parents and of course their children.�

Visitors to the Schoolwear Show were privy to live demonstrations of AlvaKids for School Uniforms throughout the show but, essentially, the application is designed to help consumers buy the right size school clothing for their children, either in-store or online via a mobile phone, computer or tablet. The process is simple – consumers obtain AlvaKids for School Uniforms as a free download app from the Apple Store, input their child’s – or children’s – birthday, height, weight and body shape into the app, which results in a recommendation for the “right size� garment to buy for that child. The application aims to save consumers time and enhance the schoolwear shopping experience by recommending the right size to buy from the UK’s most popular uniform names, with AlvaKids for School Uniforms being launched as an online widget to major schoolwear suppliers, later in the year. “The schoolwear retailers and suppliers, even the schools, understood the AlvaKids

concept and recognised that by offering the app or widget to their customers, they could reduce the time and frustration that so often accompanies a visit to the school uniform outfitters,� says Wang. “They also liked the idea that the fit aspects of the online widget would facilitate more accurate ordering and reordering, while also significantly reducing costly postal returns due to ill fit. The ‘look’ of the app was also popular, and the feedback was that it is a ‘simple’ and ‘engaging’ device to use.�

The pull for schoolwear retailers is the benefit from increased customer satisfaction and fewer garment returns due to ill-fitting items. Improved confidence for shoppers helps increase customer loyalty, leading to increased conversion sales, decreased product returns due to wrong sizing, as well as enhanced insights into consumers. “We are currently in ongoing talks with around 30 independent schoolwear retailers,� says Wang. “The first step will be for interested parties to test and pilot the AlvaKids app in their own unique retail service environments – and we are in those preliminary discussions now.�

In terms of how AlvaKids will evolve, it was always the intention of founder, and father of Jonathan, Dr Kenneth Wang that access to the correct fit should be ultimately controlled – and led – by the consumer. “AlvaKids is a consumer product, and our focus is to get as many consumers using the AlvaKids app and online widget as possible,� says Jonathan Wang. “The app is free to consumers from the Apple Store, and if retailers and brands also incorporate the online widget as part of the website experience, they will achieve better engagement with their customers. For our part, we will continually renew the list of schoolwear suppliers so users can access their fit across any brand.�

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ď ƒď€€ď€›ď€&#x;  ď€&#x;ď€€ď ƒ

ď€˜ď€Śď€€ď €ď€?ď€?ď€€ď€‚ď€ąď€ľď€Ťď€‡ď€€ď€ˇď€ ď€ˇď€ƒ ď€ťď€şď€šď€ąď€Źď€­ď€€ď€˜ď€Śď€€ď €ď€‘ď€Œď€€ď€‚ď€ąď€ľď€Ťď€‡ď€€ď€ˇď€ ď€ˇď€ƒ ď€&#x;ď€–ď€¨ď€•ď€€ď€ ď€€ď€Ľď€°ď€­ď€€ď€¤ď€Ťď€°ď€śď€śď€łď€˝ď€­ď€Šď€¸ď€€ď€•ď€šď€šď€śď€Ťď€ąď€Šď€şď€ąď€śď€ľ ď€´ď€­ď€´ď€Şď€­ď€¸ď€šď€€ď€ąď€ľď€€ď€˜ď€Śď€€ď €ď€Šď€?ď€€ď€‚ď€ąď€ľď€Ťď€‡ď€€ď€ˇď€ ď€ˇď€ƒ ď€&#x;ď€–ď€¨ď€•ď€€ď€ ď€€ď€Ľď€°ď€­ď€€ď€¤ď€Ťď€°ď€śď€śď€łď€˝ď€­ď€Šď€¸ď€€ď€•ď€šď€šď€śď€Ťď€ąď€Šď€şď€ąď€śď€ľ ď€´ď€­ď€´ď€Şď€­ď€¸ď€šď€€ď€śď€ťď€şď€šď€ąď€Źď€­ď€€ď€˜ď€Śď€€ď €ď€?ď€ˆď€€ď€‚ď€ąď€ľď€Ťď€‡ď€€ď€ˇď€ ď€ˇď€ƒ

 ď€„ď€Œď€Œď€€ď€‚ď€ˆď€ƒď€‰ď€Œď€?ď€Œď€€ď€?ď€Œď€Žď€ˆď€Žď€‘ 

A: Alvanon 020 7792 5977 www.alvanon.com : Angel’s Face 01732 823700 www.angelsface.co.uk B: Bamboo Baby 07771 933045 www.bamboo-baby.com : Barbour 0800 009 988 www.barbour.com : Blue Max Banner 0845 230 0888 www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk : Bob & Blossom 01273 679497 www.bobandblossom.com : Bonnie Baby 01273 227779 www.bonniebaby.co.uk : The Bright Company www.thebrightcompanyonline.com C: Caribee 0131 554 5555 www.caribee-uk.com : Clockwork Soldier 0844 482 1775 www.clockworksoldier.co.uk : Craghoppers 0161 749 1300 www.craghoppers.com D: Daisy Roots 01604 880066 www.daisy-roots.com : David Luke 0161 272 7474 www.davidluke.com : Didriksons 01275 390451 www.didriksons.com : Djeco 01332 987097 www.djeco.com : Dot & Co 01274 592647 www.dotandco.co.uk E: Emile et Rose 01509 881300 www.emile-et-rose.co.uk F: Find My Kit www.findmykit.com : Frugi 01326 558462 www.frugiwholesale.com G: Grubbies 07909 017664 www.grubbies.co.uk H: Hunter 0131 240 3672 www.hunter-boot.com I: ISBJÖRN of Sweden 07733 301345 www.isbjornofsweden.com J: Jennie Maizels 01794 368006 www.jenniemaizels.com K: Kaloo www.kaloo.com : Karen Brost London Baby 020 8987 8313 www.karenbrost.com : Kissy Kissy 01442 248099 www.finestforbaby.co.uk : Kite 01202 733222 www.kite-kids.co.uk : Kitsch Kitchen 07968 145440 www.lemonsherbetagency.co.uk L: Label Lamb 07930 577605 www.labellamb.com : Lelli Kelly 0039 05834311 www.lellikelly.it M: Mayoral 01277 227427 www.mayoral.com : Minene 020 8458 7764 www.minene.co.uk : Mitty James 01442 289898 www.mittyjames.co.uk : Molo 07718 987756 www.molo-kids.com O: Onya 07791 835829 www.onyabags.co.uk P: Pigeon 01865 379230 www.pigeonorganics.com : Piupia 07508 879237 www.piupia.co.uk : Price & Buckland 0115 964 0827 www.price-buckland.co.uk R: Ricosta 0116 259 7427 www.ricosta.co.uk : Rowlinson 0161 477 7791 www.rowlinson-knitwear.com : Ruby Rockette 01525 237557 www.jumpcreations.com S: Scotch R’Belle 020 3137 3503 www.vida-kids.co.uk : Scotch Shrunk 020 3137 3503 www.vida-kids.co.uk : Stamptastic 020 8332 1728 www.stamptastic.co.uk : Sunproof 01460 258040 www.sunproof.co.uk T: The Black Rabbit 07866 467710 www.theblackrabbit.co.uk : The Bright Company www.thebrightcompanyonline.com : Toughees 01202 707461 www.newbrandslimited.co.uk : Tutto Piccolo 0034 965546899 www.tuttopiccolo.com V: Villervalla 020 8672 2391 www.impkids.co.uk W: William Turner & Son/Unicol 0161 480 8582 www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk Z: Zoocchini www.zoocchini.com

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ACCESSORIES

ACCESSORIES

CARRIER BAGS

SCHOOLWEAR

     

           

   

SCHOOLWEAR

  

   

   

SCHOOL TIES

 

BABY & KIDS SHOES

WILLIAM TURNER & SON

School Scho Sc hoo ho o l Ties Tie ies s & Accessories A ccessorie ies s

       

Schoolwear Scho Sc hoo ho o lwear wear Accessories Acc A cce esso ssorie sso rie ies s

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

 

Soft leather shoes designed to give total comfort for little growing feet +44 (0)1495 311123 www.inch-blue.com

TIE & SCARF COMPANY    SCHOOL TIES  

  

        



 

   

• Soft Leather Shoes • Handmade in England • No Minimum Order

Tel: 01509 817600 www.starchildshoes.co.uk

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November/December 2013

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ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‘ď€ˆď€?ď€Œď€€ď€—

SOUTH WEST

ď€“ď€ ď€Œď€‡ď€’ď€ˆď€–ď€…ď€Œ The Old Barn, Shurnhold Farm Business Park, Bath Road, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 8DF Tel: 01225 700699 Mobile: 07785 290154 Email: Monique@vanhuizen.co.uk Web: www.vanhuizen.co.uk www.oililybag.co.uk MIM-PI, PAGLIE

IRELAND

ď€Œď€’ď€ ď€Šď€ ď€€ď€‹ď€ƒď€‰ď€…ď€Œď€Œď€ 40 Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7FF Tel: 0044 28 90236330 Fax: 0044 28 90236330 Email: nuala@mckenna.orangehome.co.uk EMILE-ET-ROSE, KANZ, LILLY & SID, HATLEY, LOFFF, STEIFF, STARDUST FIRST COMMUNION DRESSES, FIRST OCCASION CHRISTENING WEAR, TORRES DRESSES High quality children’s fashions for babies, boys and girls up to 14 years - specialising in occasionwear.

Showrooms in Belfast, Dublin, Cork & Limerick.

NORTH EAST

ď€ ď€?ď€Žď€…ď€ƒď€‘ď€€ď€ƒď€? Showrooms will be held in Leeds, Manchester and London for further info contact Bib Sohel Tel 07850 754 853 email bib.sohel@sky.com DESIGUAL, FORE!! AXEL AND HUDSON, LEMMI, BEBE BY MINIHAHA, DARCY BROWN, SUGARLOAF KIDS, MINI VANILLA, MINI ZZZ A diverse selection of highly desirable brands for UK independents and stores from baby to 16yrs.

European distributor for Fore!! Axel and Hudson.

NORTH WEST

ď€?ď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?

Weldon Agencies, Carr House Business Centre, Carr House Lane, Bretherton, Lancashire, PR26 9AR Tel: 01772 603912 Email: barrieweldon@btconnect.com www.weldonagencies.co.uk NO NO, S & D LE CHIC, DEUX PAR DEUX, ABSORBA / CONFETTI, BOBOLI, POM POM, FUN + FUN, FOQUE 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.

SOUTH EAST

ď€?ď€‰ď€•ď€Šď€ˆď€Œď€…ď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?

ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‚ď€ˆ

Bizspace Business Centre, Unit 203, 4-6 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, Middlesex UB6 7JJ Tel: 020 8567 2384 Mobile: 07971 190446 Fax: 0800 007 3359 Email: skylineagencies@gmail.com PRIMIGI SHOES, FALKE & BURLINGTON SOCKS AND TIGHTS, GIESSWEIN HOME SHOES Covering the whole of the UK with London based showroom and offices.

ď€Œď€ˆď€†ď€…ď€Šď€€ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?

5 Evelyn Grove, Ealing, London, W5 3QG Tel: 0208 992 0552 Mobile: 07860 230918 Fax: 020 8993 6568 Email: Nigel.Ross@btinternet.com Web: www.minizzz.com CATYA (IT), MINIZZZ Manufacturers’ and Distributors’ Agent - Northern and Southern Home Counties, including London Postal districts. NCWA and APSA member.

Unit H7 & H7a, Capital House, 2 Michael Road, London SW6 2AD Tel: 0207 348 7316 Email: info@solobi.co.uk Web: www.solobi.co.uk MINI A TURE, TOFFEE MOON, LILLE BARN, AYA NAYA SoLoBi represents modern high quality children’s brands with a playful attitude and sharp attention to detail. Offers very good and transparent service.

ď€?ď€…ď€ˆď€‘ď€…ď€Œď€?ď€‘ď€…ď€ˆď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?

19 Addison Grove, Chiswick, W4 1 EP Tel: 078 5550 9069 Fax: 02081816458 Email: shoes@breitensteins.com clothes@breitensteins.com ANGULUS AND BOBUX SHOES, CLOTHES FROM CHRISTINA ROHDE, MILIBE, VER DE TERRE, FUB CHILDREN’S WEAR An agency representing classic, stylish and contemporary Danish children’s clothing and shoe brands. Plus the best baby shoes from New Zealand.

MIDLANDS

ď€“ď€ ď€Œď€‡ď€’ď€ˆď€–ď€…ď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?

Unit 1, First Floor, Paragon Works, Wilsthorpe Road, Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 3JW. Tel: 07967 560633 Email: franck@vanhuizenagencies.co.uk Web: www.vanhuizenagencies.co.uk OILILY CHILDRENSWEAR, ROOM SEVEN CHILDRENSWEAR, PERSNICKETY CHILDRENSWEAR ROOM SEVEN KIDS INTERIORS, BEDDINGHOUSE KIDS BEDDING

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

ď€?ď€?ď€ƒď€ƒď€ ď€Žď€ˆď€Œď€ Roccapina, 8 Pembroke Close, Thrapston, Northants, NN14 4XJ Tel: 01832 776588 Fax: 01832 730188 Email: sales@roccapina.co.uk www.roccapina.co.uk LA QUEUE DU CHAT, BABINÉ BB, STURE&LISA Agency representing high quality European brands offering classic, colourful and chic collections for ages 0-14 years. Covering the whole of the UK.

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November/December 2013

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          

Laura Turner: What’s the story behind Karen Brost London Baby?

Karen Brost: I’ve always been inspired, and somewhat enamoured, by kids’ clothing. I’m also a big kid at heart, so it proved to be a rather easy transition. It wasn’t until we had our first child, Coco, a bonafide miracle after seven rounds of gruelling IVF, that I was officially granted permission to fully fall down the rabbit hole of the kiddie world of retail. I wanted to come up with an alternative concept for a baby line and, more specifically, re-invent myself as an illustrator and textile designer versus the clothing designer who just made pretty new shapes each season. I had always enjoyed the illustration part of my womenswear job, but only found tiny amounts of time to do it.

LT: Your children are obviously a key source of inspiration.

KB: Yes, absolutely. Coco seems to gravitate towards both girly and boyish things. For example, being dressed as a fairy princess and playing with a fire engine – hence one of my a/w 14 groups is called Fairies and Fire Engines. It serves as the perfect catalyst for a group that appeals to boys and girls. I don’t find children are naturally gender-specific, but I must recognise that gift-givers, who comprise more than 50 per cent of sales in the baby market, are extremely sensitive about buying the “appropriate” image and colour.

LT: What does the debut collection comprise?

KB: Our first, exclusive launch collection for Liberty of London and Fred Segal Los Angeles is 10 limited-edition illustrations for both boys and girls on babygros. For this capsule delivery we’ve also introduced our timeless and classic style, the Ballet Tee, with all prints available on this style available in either short or long sleeve.

LT: What are your key considerations when designing childrenswear?

KB: One of the cornerstones of our brand is to create imagery that appeals not only to the child wearing it, but also the child within us.

Our aim is to create a slightly more sophisticated and imaginative look in our graphics. Of course, there are the other practical factors of making our product in the most ethical and safe fashion. All our screen prints are done using organic water-based inks. We source the finest combed and ring spun cotton, and our monogrammed poppers

are lead-free. We’ve also paid extra attention to details such as the swing tag, which doubles as the gift card.

LT: What is the brand mission?

KB: To create a “textile-driven” lifestyle brand to include several product extensions such as home, accessories, toys and educational books featuring our characters and signature graphics. We’re also planning to do a related Yummy Mummy range.

LT: What is your favourite design from the collection so far?

KB: That depends on which day you catch me.

My standard answer is always the Flamingo Royale, as it’s the most girlie, sophisticated and on-brand. But, I must admit, I’m rather partial to the Monkey Business or the Cheeky Ginger Giraffe design, which are just joyful.

LT: Which other childrenswear collections do you admire?

KB: I’m obsessed with Mini Rodini at the moment. It is one of the best examples of authenticity in design.

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

KB: Yes, for our international launch at Pitti Bimbo in January we’ll be introducing a full range of style options including Coco’s Cardie, Tee Wee and BabyGlow. As for the signature prints, we’ll be offering three a/w 14 deliveries of four bespoke prints per delivery.

I’m also keen, as a part of our long-term strategy, to include interesting bespoke collaborations with key international retailers – from Barneys to H&M if I’m given the chance.

I like the challenge of creating something unique for different customer tastes and incomes.

I’d also love the opportunity to design for children with special needs and dynamic charities.

         