WMessage from the Editor
Rhys Thomas Garden Centre supplement editor
www.toysnplaything.media www.giftstoday.media
elcome to our first garden centre supplement, a seasonal special celebrating this unique segment of British retail and the wonderful companies that supply them, brought to you in partnership between Toys n Playthings and Gifts Today.
Garden centres have distinguished themselves as true experiential shopping destinations - as much a family day out as a trip to the shops. True, the promise of frothy coffee, a hearty slice of sponge cake or a slab of chocolate brownie contributes much to the allure of an afternoon at Dobbies. But you can’t discount the importance product mix plays in drawing shoppers year-round. In fact, Dobbies’ very own toy and gift buyer Caroline Chatwin, gives us the inside scoop on what products are thriving this summer, why toys have the capacity to inspire, and how best to approach garden centre buyers.
You can also read about the health and resilience of the sector in a column from Garden Centre Association CEO Peter Burks. With four decades in the trade, his finger (or should that be green thumb) is firmly on the
pulse of how garden centres are evolving and why noncore products such as toys and gifts are such a vital part of their on-going growth.
We also caught up with BHETA’s Steve Richardson to learn more about the driving force behind increasingly diversified product mix at garden centres. With the inherent seasonality of the gardening sector, he explains why toys, gifts, homewares, cooking and dining are all part of the equation to help attract visitors year-round.
It’s an often overlooked segment of the British retail landscape, but one that holds plenty of opportunity. Buying group Toymaster has seen greater numbers of garden centres join up as members throughout the past five or so years, and Development Manager Brian McLaughlin shares how it’s supporting them, and what that means for suppliers - as well as its core membership of independent specialist stores.
Plus hear from suppliers forging deeper ties with garden centres, including Jura Toys, Epoch making toys, Rainbow Designs, Rubies, Fizz Creations, Thames & Kosmos, Keel Toys and many more.
Rhys Thomas, Editor rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk
The team Contents
Editor Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk
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Claire Naish Claire@tnpmedia.co.uk
Advertisement Manager Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk
Managing Director Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk
Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk
“Garden centres can still ‘make hay’ even when the sun doesn’t shine”
Peter Burks, CEO of the Garden Centre Association, shares his insight into the economic resilience of garden centres and the shifting product mix that makes them family
Garden centres have not been in existence all that many years, with our own Garden Centre Association (GCA) founded in just 1966, so at the very beginning of the retail nursery journey. How they have changed since then, with the aims to reduce both the impact of the weather – never more keenly felt than in this spring – and the seasonality of gardening affecting many of the changes that our customers enjoy today.
Garden centres are very easy places for people to visit, and the quality of garden centre buildings has dramatically improved - and with it the standards of visual merchandising particularly in the home, gift and clothing departments. Here the standards are now significantly above what you see in the high street, even regarding clothing and footwear, in centres such as the Blue Diamond Garden Centres.
Garden centres are the go-to place for cards, children’s toys, general gifts, particularly for Mothering Sunday and Father’s Day, candles and home fragrance, to name just a few. Sustainable sourcing is the buzz word in these ranges to try to match the environmental credentials of our members’ plant departments.
The range of product is also very important to ensure all members of the family are catered for; there are even ride on lawn mowers, garden tractors and BBQs to keep those not so gift, lifestyle and plant-orientated amused. Then of course there is Christmas with quite staggering displays and activities for every age group. Events certainly help to bring in a completely different age group for this season; encouraging them to
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With the level of innovation currently being displayed, I am sure the industry is looking at a very strong future
Peter Burks, CEO, the GCA
come at other times for these nongardening items too.
Once the shopping is over there are play areas for the children and of course first-class restaurant facilities for all. Technology continues to move forward at a pace and the area I think I have seen the biggest changes is in our members’ restaurants. The range of service options have changed significantly, many driven by changes made during the covid years.
Some centres still have counter service with a great range of food, much of it home grown, and with local provenance clearly on show. Some have table service still provided by humans, while others are using apps. Who would have thought our garden centre customer base could move so smoothly to something like this. Others have gone to a model more often seen in fast food outlets with electronic ordering from screens, again a change that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.
I am also pleased to see the increase
destinations
in the use of QR codes to help to educate our customers on particular plants and products. This will undoubtedly lead to our customers having greater success with these as well as leading to greater loyalty when they can see some of the thinking and work that has gone on behind the scenes.
The level of community engagement seen in so many GCA member garden centres is really quite breathtaking. There are great schemes in restaurants encouraging customers to interact and sit together; centres organising programmes of in-house demonstrations and lectures; hosting and/or sponsoring local fruit, veg and flower shows; organising coach trips to gardens of interest, to mention just a few.
Then there are lots of activities to engage with children particularly during the school holidays and some of the play areas are quite incredible, with great catering facilities added in, some even attracting school parties!
The industry is fortunate that the vagaries of the economy rarely have an impact on sales performance, with the weather having far more of an input. Again, the good news here is that even poor weather rarely lasts for long and with the range of retail options available now, garden centres can still ‘make hay’ even when the sun doesn’t shine.
I can honestly say with the level of innovation currently being displayed, I am sure the industry is looking at a very strong future.
Beautiful toys and gifts for little ones
From festive favourites to evergreen licenses, Rainbow Designs’ range of toys and gifts is a winner at garden centres and beyond
Brighten up garden centre displays with adorable bunnies, bears and caterpillars from Rainbow Designs’ award-winning, licensed classic character collections. With best-selling ranges including Peter Rabbit, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, Paddington Bear, Guess How Much I Love You, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and The Snowman and Snowdog, these collections offer beautiful high quality gifts and easy pick-up lines for every generation of garden centre visitor. Peter Rabbit is a favourite woodland character that brings to life any garden centre display. Rainbow Designs’ Rabbit Signature Collection is a beautiful range of forever toys, created to be shared across generations, includes adorable soft toys, comforters and ring rattles
and featuring two of the most traditional and much-loved children’s literacy characters. Joining this popular gifting range this autumn are Signature Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny Gift Sets. The baby soft plush toy and knitted blanket, featuring a white bunny silhouette with a cute bobble tail, comes beautifully packaged in an illustrated keepsake box.
Many of our product ranges are now widely available in garden centres throughout the UK, as we offer ideal gifts for those shopping for new babies and infants, as well as keepsake cuddlies suitable for all ages.
Zara Grindrod, Sales and Brand Director at Rainbow Designs
The beautiful Disney Classic Pooh Always and Forever range is a collection of truly special Winnie the Pooh soft toys and baby gifts, including gift boxed soft toys, comforters and ring rattles. Designed with high quality fabrics and featuring a beautiful bespoke print, these lines have been created with a vision for these adorable toys to be treasured for many years to comeAlways and Forever.
Gifts from The Very Hungry Caterpillar range make wonderful treats
for little ones, encouraging the fun of gardening and a love for the great outdoors. Rainbow’s colourful Very Hungry Caterpillar soft and wooden toy collection, with strong primary colours, and a variety of textures and sounds, is designed to stimulate senses and encourage development through play.
A festive must-have for any winter display is Rainbow Designs’ range of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman and The Snowdog soft toys. The Snowman Musical Soft Toy, alongside the Snowman and Snowdog bean toys, make beautiful Christmas gifts. There are free standees available too! After all, what is Christmas without the Snowman?!
Combining smart design and sustainable materials to encourage early childhood development
Dobbies: growing our toy business
Children’s ranges have become a key growth category for Dobbies Garden Centre
Caroline Chatwin, Buyer (Toys and Recreation) shares what’s performing well, and how toys and children’s gifts are inspiring the next generation of gardeners
Tell us a little about your career and how your role has evolved?
I have a background in textile design, and after starting my family I started working for Dobbies part time in 2010, as a buyer’s admin assistant. Now my role is Buyer, I am responsible for our range of toys, books, cards, wrap and stationery. I’ve now been buying in these areas for over 10 years, which has allowed me to gain an understanding of what our customers love at Dobbies.
Dobbies is known as a family retail destination - for many a day out. How does product mix play into creating that environment that there’s something for everyone, particularly when it comes to toys and gifts?
With so much to see and do in our stores, our garden
Children’s ranges are hugely important in terms of growth
Caroline
Chatwin, Buyer (Toys and Recreation), Dobbies Garden Centre
centres are considered a family day out for many. We take a lot of pride in offering a great choice of products for our customers. We want to share our passion for gardening and plants with our customers and that includes our toys and gifts collection.
Our product mix must also fit with a store’s size and customer demographic. For example, our little dobbies urban stores include a curated range of gift, cards and plants that is ideal for smaller spaces, while our larger stores in Tewkesbury and Antrim have more lifestyle products mixing kids toys and books together, encouraging customers to take the time to browse and spend time in the stores.
Are the categories you’re responsible for a growing part of the business?
Children’s ranges are hugely important in terms of growth. We are the largest soft play provider in the UK, and have a fantastic opportunity to inspire a new generation of little ones who are as passionate about garden living as we are.
Our focus recently has been to expand our range of kids’ gardening tools, grow your own kits and craft products under our Little Seedlings brand. These tie in with our free Little Seedlings workshops that we run in stores every month, with the aim of encouraging children to learn about wildlife, plants and the environment.
How many toy companies do you work with and who do you have a strong relationship with?
We work with around 20 suppliers within our indoor and outdoor ranges of toys, as well as adult hobby ranges.
We have worked with some suppliers for decades, growing our respective businesses together. We have worked with Keycraft for many years to ensure we have a quality range of pocket money toys across our stores. More recently, Hunter Price toys are a new addition to our stores that has allowed us to expand our ranges with volume products, and to test their own brand. Fountasia has also been a major
contributor to our adult hobby range in the last year and Tandem Group Trading (MV Sports) and Plum Play have been supporting our large play equipment builds in store, which is great to see.
Are there any stand-out lines that are working particularly well this summer?
Our brand-new Little Seedlings range of tools has been popular this summer, as well as our large play equipment. Plum trampolines and their wooden garden toys are performing well, alongside the Hedstrom metal range of swings and slides. Having these items on display in our larger stores has had a positive impact on sales.
Which trade shows do you attend - and are they still an important part of your annual product discovery? Trade shows are important for understanding new trends and product developments within the industry. London Toy Fair and Nuremberg are a must for the toy sector. Glee is important for kids gardening and outdoor toys.
How do the categories you’re responsible for differ from the centres’ core gardening and horticulture business?
Cards, books and stationery are all yearround staples for our stores and are key items within our impulse offering. Overall, the four weeks before Christmas is the busiest time of year for toys and our Christmas ranges. Other key times of the year include Easter for indoor toys and between Easter and May bank holidays for outdoor toys. And of course, the
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We have worked with some suppliers for decades, growing our respective businesses together
Caroline Chatwin, Buyer (Toys and Recreation), Dobbies Garden Centre
summer holiday season is a key time of year for summer outdoor toy ranges and capturing the family market.
What are the best ways toy companies can support their products in garden centres?
We work with our suppliers to ensure that products and promotions on display in store are impactful and grab the customer’s attention. We also work with our suppliers on our fantastic range of events and prize giveaways where we can.
There’s a decent selection of toys and gifts to buy online through the Dobbies website. What products work well online? Online works particularly well for large play equipment that can be delivered directly to the home. We also have a range of online exclusive products in outdoor toys.
For suppliers yet to work with you, how best could they
approach you - how can they stand out, and what support do you expect?
We would encourage potential suppliers to get in touch initially with a short message and information on key product images and guide pricing. While we might not need the information immediately, we can often refer back when relevant. We also always welcome inspirational images as this allows us to gain an insight into the brands.
Finally, what are you on the hunt for currently?
We want to share our passion for gardens and plants all year round so any products that allow us to do that will be of interest.
Ride-ons for kids that work for summer or winter, sport products like basketball, football and tennis are also on the list. We’re also looking to expand into hobby ranges that fit well with customers and can be done both in and out of the garden.
What toy categories work particularly well at your centres?
“Soft toys is a particularly strong category for us because they have multigenerational appeal and are popular gifts for people of all ages and all occasions. In a nod to our passion for plants and gardening, our kids’ gardening range and hobby products, such as jigsaws and construction, are always popular among our customers.”
Garden centre Trade talk
Richard Collins Managing Director, Ravensburger UK
How long have you been supplying garden centres - and how important are these relationships to your broader retail strategy?
Garden centres are a key part of our customer base, and we have many longstanding relationships in the sector. With the nature of the setting, their space and facilities lend themselves to in-store events which are a vital element in our marketing plans. Our garden centre partners are open to this kind of activity, and with their engaged audience and demographic, we're excited about the possibilities this opens up.
the broad audience represented. BRIO is another firm favourite, and garden centres offer the possibility of impactful branded POS units. Card games are a handy, impulse purchase that work well, such as our That's Not A Hat, and can sometimes be bought and played immediately in the centre cafe!
longstanding relationships in the sector
“ ” Garden centres are a key part of our customer base, and we have many
Which of your product lines work particularly well in garden centres?
We find that puzzles perform exceptionally well, from regionallythemed 1000-piece puzzles to our 'my first' ranges, which reflects
Neil Montgomery
UK Commercial Director, Jura Toys
How long have you been supplying garden centresand how important are these relationships to your broader retail strategy?
Garden Centres are a really important part of our business. We have been supplying a
How can you make an impact on the shop floor of a garden centre - and how does that differ to speciality toy stores?
Garden centres offer a premium shopping experience with plenty of space for displays and stand-out POS. We use digital displays to create a 'virtual demo' of our board games or systems such as GraviTrax, or install a BRIO train or Play Table for a hands-on experience that can be destination point in store for families.
wide range of garden centres across the UK and Ireland for some time now and continue to see a growth in this area. We now work with 45 Dobbies stores across the UK with our Janod brand and continue to grow and evolve in this sector.
Which of your product lines work particularly well in garden centres?
Our Janod wooden toys are always a popular choice as well as the bath and craft collections. We have a wide range of quality toys at great prices and margins. Kaloo dolls have worked very well in garden centres - The Kaloo dolls are suitable from birth, machine washable and are
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We
them stand out in the gift department.
How can you make an impact on the shop floor of a garden centre - and how does that differ to speciality toy stores?
have a wide range of quality toys at great prices and margins. Kaloo dolls have worked very well in garden centres
dolls really emphasises the products and make
We pride ourselves on strong points of sale across all of our brands, including nice wooden displays and spinners. We can supply branded cubes, shelf strips and window pos to highlight the toy department. Supplying product samples to display out of the boxes really does help to show off the product properly, and we re happy to support stores with this option. We develop various new floor displays every year targeted at different selling periods, for example we have recently developed a craft FSDU for back to school.
Zoe Ryan Head of Marketing, Fizz Creations
How long have you been supplying garden centres - and how important are these relationships to your broader retail strategy?
We are rapidly approaching our 15th year in business, and whilst we have enjoyed phenomenal growth globally, the UK gift market remains an essential part of our business. Garden centres are important; they are places to meet for lunch, connect with nature, and shop quality gifting items.
Which of your product lines work particularly well in garden centres?
We have seen success with many of our licensed character ranges and also with unique puzzles and games. Space themed products are always popular as are our novelty gifts lines, which are great impulse buys.
“Garden centres are important; they are places to meet for lunch, connect with nature, and shop quality gifting items
”Many of our licensed product ranges perform fantastically in garden centres - as well as our unique puzzles and games, which make great impulse buys. Much like with museums, our space-themed lines have also proved hugely popular in this landscape, indicating reliable demand for educational, science-themed gifting in nature-led retail environments.
How can you make an impact on the shop floor of a garden centre - and how does that differ to speciality stores?
We like to create a wow factor and we have a fantastic product design team who make some visually stunning packaging, from shaped boxes and innovative materials through to the latest style trends, it really makes our product presence known. Our mantra here at Fizz creations is “Be phenomenal”, and that extends to everything we do.
Spokesperson, Epoch making toys
How long have you been supplying garden centres - and how important are these relationships to your broader retail strategy?
Epoch has supplied garden centres since it’s incorporation, however over the last five years they have become a greater focus for us. The customer base suits our range of brands, specifically Sylvanian Families, which champions nature and classic, wholesome values. As garden centres are treated as days out for families, we see great importance in ensuring our extensive toy ranges are well-represented, and that we provide a good service to our customers.
Which of your product lines work particularly well in garden centres?
Sylvanian Families has a range full of wonderful gifting options, which perform very well for our Garden Centre customers. From the Red Roof Cosy Cottage Starter Home to our iconic family sets and playsets like the Family Picnic Van.
Zara Grindrod Sales and Brand Director, Rainbow Designs
How long have you been supplying garden centres - and how important are these relationships to your broader retail strategy? Garden centres are a very important and valuable sector of our retail supply chain. We recognised, about 10 years ago, that with the change in high street retail, and the move to online platforms, that garden centres were in a strong position to become the new department stores. Today they are the place to go, not just to buy plants, but for a day out, an experience, and the perfect opportunity to pick up unique and thoughtful gifts.
Which of your product lines work particularly well in garden centres?
“Parents also take little ones to garden centres to help keep them occupied, and so having lines
in stock that they will connect with, and ask for is vital. Particularly popular are ranges featuring garden-based animals and animals in general, including Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Guess How Much I Love You, Paddington, and Disney's Winnie the Pooh. Some of our best-selling lines include our highquality, licensed character nursery essentials, such as comforters, ring rattles and gift sets, as well as our Classic Paddington soft toys.
How can you make an impact on the shop floor of a garden centre - and how does that differ to speciality toy stores?
Garden centres offer the space and environment to allow for some creative retail theatre, with bold, creative and enticing displays. As part of our retail support we have created some beautiful wooden and permanent FSDU’s for these particular retailers, that have the capacity to display multiple ranges and product selections, in the most attractive and eye-catching way.
Gifts Today
AMBASSADORS SPECIAL
Let’s hear it for the girls!
Sisters Willow (5) Meadow (3) and River (1) love playing together - much to mum Amber’s relief! - but finding toys they can all enjoy isn’t always easy. They tested a range of products from Jura Toys’ Kaloo and Janod collections to see if there are some new favourites for playtime (spoiler: there are)
Meadow’sfavourite: Janod Doctor’s set. “It’s my best toy. I love it!”
Willow’sfavourite: Janod Egg and Spoon. “It’s a fun challenge!”
What did you like about the toys as a mum?
Mum, Amber: I’m always looking for toys that our girls can enjoy playing with together - and that won’t end up destroyed in one afternoon - but that’s not always easy. Our eldest Willow is a little more careful with her things now but, like all kids, the toys we’ve bought the girls over the years inevitably get dropped and bashed about. I always prioritise quality, and all the Jura products we tested are robust yet beautiful. The Kaloo dolls are my stand out: they’re well-made, kid-tough and cuddly, without being too delicate for the youngest.
Would you shop this range in future?
Mum: We’ve bought Janod toys before - both for our own kids and as gifts for friends and family - because we love the designs. They look
Contact
great, even when just littering the living room. Kaloo was a new brand to us, but I’ll definitely be keeping my eye out for them in the future. The girls are over the moon with them, too, so that’s win-win!
Would you recommend the toys to friends?
Mum: I would, definitely. For me, they’re a great mix of that traditional vibe with all the modern stuff mums look out for, mainly the quality and branding. I think the packaging looks really great. Rather than the neon yellows and pinks you see from a lot of toys, these look quite grown-up really, and that really appeals to me. You can’t underestimate how important that is for me and the mums I know, especially when we’re buying gifts nearly every week for this birthday or that!
To learn more about Jura’s full range call 020 8563 2888 or visit sales@juratoys.co.uk
River’s favourite: Kaloo Tendresse Doll. “Cuddles!”
Blossoming into diverse retail hubs
Steve Richardson, Marketing Director of BHETA, shares the opportunities garden centres offer toy and gift suppliers - and how to perfect your pitch to their buyers
In what ways does BHETA support the garden centre sector? BHETA is the leading UK Trade Association for manufacturers, importers, and distributors who operate in the Home Improvement (DIY), Garden, Housewares and Small Electrical sectors. Many BHETA members supply garden centres, whether with garden tools and horticultural product, or with homewares, gift, small domestic electricals, or garden leisure.
The association helps all its garden supplier members form relationships with the garden centres – such as Dobbies or Blue Diamond – through its successful ‘Meet the Buyer’ days, key speaker forums, workshops, and webinars. BHETA also provides access to leading market research to both suppliers and retailers alike, and lobbying is a key element of BHETA support.
Garden centres are reasonably resilient to wider economic downturns. How do they protect against these shifts? Garden centres thrive even in economic downturns because they offer more than just products; they provide an immersive experience that nurtures both plants and the soul. In tough economic times, garden centres stand resilient by transforming shopping into an experiential journey, blending nature, community, and relaxation in a way few other retail spaces can match.
Garden centres are increasingly experimenting with product categories, moving into toys, general gifting and more. What’s the driving force behind this?
Garden centres, once synonymous with potted plants, soil, and gardening tools, are blossoming into diverse retail hubs. The overlap between garden and DIY
has long been present, but as consumers’ needs and interests expand, garden centres are ingeniously transforming to cater to these demands with a more diverse range. Beyond the core gardening season, these centres now offer a variety of products, including toys, games, puzzles, and general gifts, plus a variety of kitchenware, tableware, housewares, and small domestic electricals – sometimes in dedicated cookshop areas.
toys, games, general gifting, home decor, and gourmet foods has not only revitalised these spaces but also cemented their place as versatile, year-round destinations. By continually adapting and enhancing the shopping experience, garden centres ensure that they remain vibrant and relevant in the competitive retail landscape.
For toy and gift suppliers, garden centres offer a unique gateway to reach a nature-loving, familyoriented clientele
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Steve Richardson, Marketing Director, BHETA
The drivers are seasonality and consumer engagement. Gardening is inherently seasonal with peak interest during spring and summer. However, to maintain a steady flow of customers throughout the year, garden centres are increasingly exploring non-seasonal product categories. This strategy helps mitigate the risks associated with seasonal slumps, the vagaries of British weather, and keeping customers engaged year-round.
Moreover, evolving consumer behaviour plays a pivotal role. Today’s shoppers seek convenience and a more holistic shopping experience. By offering a broader product range, garden centres cater to the modern consumer’s desire for one-stop shopping, blending the outdoor allure of gardening with the everyday necessity and enjoyment of other products.
Garden centres are successfully navigating beyond their traditional roles, driven by the need to balance seasonality and meet evolving consumer demands. The move into diverse product categories such as
For toy and gift suppliers that are yet to target garden centres, what opportunities do they open up beyond their bread-and-butter accountsspeciality stores and grocers etc.?
For toy and gift suppliers, garden centres offer a unique gateway to reach a nature-loving, familyoriented clientele, extending beyond the usual speciality stores and grocers. In fact, they are the perfect combination of the charm of the specialist with the high foot traffic of grocery retailers, all within a lush, experiential environment.
What advice could you give to toy and gift suppliers when approaching garden centre buyers to appeal to their unique retail environment?
When approaching garden centre buyers, emphasise how your products can enhance the natural, tranquil atmosphere and offer an engaging, familyfriendly experience. Tailor your pitch to show how your products complement the centre’s focus on nature, wellness, and community, creating a seamless extension to their core offering.
The calming power of puzzles Fact
Ravensburger is introducing new pack sizes for its 500, 1000 and 1500-piece puzzles as part of the company’s continuing sustainability efforts
Just like gardening, piecing together a jigsaw puzzle offers a mindful escape from day-to-day hustle and bustle. Katy Fletcher, Ravensburger’s Head of Marketing and Product Development, shares what’s in store from the company for the rest of 2024
What can we expect from Ravensburger puzzles in the second half of the year?
The next six months are huge for us with around a hundred new 2D puzzles launching and a packaging design refresh across our adult puzzle collection. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the blue triangle logo and along with some special editions highlighting the occasion, we’re also rolling out a new packaging design to ensure that the all-important puzzle image really sings on the front of the pack. As part of our ongoing dedication to sustainability, we’ll also introduce new pack sizes for our 500, 1000 and 1500-piece puzzles. I must give a mention to the forthcoming launch of our Art & Soul collection. Showcasing a unique look and feel, these 750-piece puzzles are designed for puzzlers who love contemporary art, from modern takes on bird life, to engaging illustrative representations of iconic works of literature.
Why do you believe garden centre retailers should stock a selection of jigsaw puzzles?
Garden centres are much more than a place to buy plants and gardening essentials, today. Garden centres are
a unique destination providing an environment where so many of us feel at ease—from browsing through gifts and enjoying a cuppa in the café to sharing a passion for plants with children. This calming power is very similar to the feeling of well-being experienced when completing puzzles—there is a strong crossover between puzzle and gardening fan audiences.
we are growing our lineup of local artists, bringing variety and regional interest to our offering.
What support can retailers expect?
Katy Fletcher, Head of Marketing and Product Development, Ravenburger UK “ ”
What makes a Ravensburger puzzle different?
The premium quality of Ravensburger puzzles continues to keep the company top of mind among puzzle fans and leading sales year after year
The quality of our puzzles is much talked about in the jigsaw puzzle community – our manufacturing process is highly regarded for its attention to detail, with each one of our cutters unique and handcrafted by experts to provide the perfect fit for each piece, every time. While that quality is universal across the world to our Ravensburger puzzles, for the UK and ROI, much of the development of our collection takes place at our Bicesterbased office, providing a bespoke collection that meets the wants of our puzzle fans in the best possible way. And we’re delighted to say that each year,
Our team is on hand to aid retailers in creating impact at retail, whether that’s inviting POS and display solutions or pop-up events and digital assets. Our garden centre customers know their audience the best, and for that reason, we’re looking forward to developing unique partnerships that provide the ideal proposition for each customer.
If a garden centre retailer could only list three Ravensburger puzzles, which would you suggest?
Our My Haven series by artist Steve Read is always among our top sellers and provides the perfect escapism –this year saw the launch of number 11 in the series, and each of the puzzles celebrates a gorgeous shed ‘escape’, whether in the garden or even a beach hut. Regional interest jigsaws are also a popular choice. One of the new examples available in the second half is Cotswold Way by artist Dominic Davison. And, of course, our Christmas limited edition is always a hit, so I’d strongly recommend our anniversary edition Christmas Village puzzle.
Toys in bloom
Garden centres have become the antidote to digital commerce, offering a truly experiential shopping experience and opportunity for toy and gift suppliers to thrive
While much of the retail sector continues to battle rising rates and falling footfall, one segment remains resilient, garden centres. Even the wettest spring in almost 40 years couldn’t completely dampen sales. The Horticultural Trades Association reported an overall three per cent decline in garden centre sales and transaction numbers in May, but there was a bright spot: non-gardening products, including toys and gifts.
“Challenging weather conditions once again led to a noticeable decline in garden centre sales for gardening enthusiasts,” said HTA chief Fran Barnes. “On the other hand, footfall was still strong with non-garden/gardening categories.”
Gifts rose six per cent, consistent with a trend of growth across garden
centres’ non-core product mix.
Establishing relationships with garden centres is crucial as it allows us to reach a new customer base
Helen Arblaster, Senior Content Manager, Rubies “ ”
Greater numbers of centres are now experimenting with branching out into toys, gifts, seasonal products, food and drinks, and more, in an attempt to smooth out the seasonal sales spikes inherent to the horticulture trade. The result is broader appeal, namely with families who visit garden centres not just to shop for pots and plants, but as a day out, says BHETA’s Steve Richardson.
“By integrating diversified non-core categories into their product mix, garden centres transform into vibrant retail destinations, offering something for every family member and making each visit a memorable outing,” he said. “Expanding beyond traditional gardening supplies enhances reputation as holistic destinations where shopping becomes an enjoyable experience for all ages,
broadening the traditional demographic as well as overcoming seasonality.”
At Dobbies, one of the UK’s largest and best-known garden centre groups, toys and children’s gifts are seen as a natural extension of its wider product mix, and an opportunity to inspire a love of gardening from a young age, says Toy and Recreation Buyer Caroline Chatwin. Key suppliers, including Keycraft, Plum Play, MV Sports, and Hedstrom, bring their market-leading lines and expertise to the centres, complementing Dobbies’ new own-brand Little Seedlings range.
Fertile ground
Forging closer partnerships is a winwin for both garden centre buyers and suppliers. Toymaster’s Brian McLaughlin said the buying group’s garden centre members perfectly complement its
important core of independent toy shops. Located away from the high street, where many Toymaster stores operate, there’s little chance of creating clashes and increasing competition, he said.
“Garden centres perform better in categories like gifts, puzzles, plush and crafts, among others, and suppliers with these ranges tend to perform strongly with garden centre members,” Brian added.
Early movers into the sector are reaping the rewards.
Jura Toys’s Janod brand can be found across the UK’s garden centre market, including at 45 Dobbies locations nationwide. Jura’s UK Commercial Director, Neil Montgomery believes they’re important places for reaching consumers where they’re increasingly choosing to shop.
“We understand that the way people shop has changed and we work with the garden centre buyers to make sure that the stock supplied reflects the shopping habits of the garden centre consumer,” he said.
Garden centres provide an increasingly rare opportunity to put product directly in the hands of potential consumers
Zoe Ryan, Head of Marketing, Fizz Creations
Success requires support, he added, and the company works closely with buyers and merchandising teams to equip them with all the marketing materials and sample products they need to make a splash in-store.
Epoch making toys, which has supplied garden centres since the company’s inception, said it’s placed greater emphasis on supporting the sector over the past five years. The company’s marquee Sylvanian Families brand is right at home among the centres’ core products, with its themes of nature and wholesome play. The company says that with an extensive range of product types and price points, “we have something for everyone; whether they’re new to the
brand or an avid collector”. Fresh opportunities
For other brands, including Rubies, garden centres offer new opportunities to reach consumers who don’t regularly visit their core retail partners.
“Establishing relationships with garden centres is crucial as it allows us to reach a new customer base that may not frequently visit traditional toy stores or grocery outlets,” said Helen Arblaster, Senior Content Manager, Rubies.
“These relationships are integral to our strategy of expanding our market presence and ensuring our costumes are accessible in diverse retail environments.”
The dress-up specialist has embarked upon a collaborative programme to support garden centres with versatile, eye-catching FSDUs, as well as packages of seasonal goods to capitalise on Christmas, Halloween and other key occasions throughout the year.
With mounting pressure on the high street and the immutable presence of online marketplaces, garden centres are rapidly becoming an important component for toy suppliers’ retail strategy. Independent and specialist toy retailers will always offer the best dedicated shopping experience, sharing recommendations and knowledge. But getting hands on with toys comes a close second, sayid Fizz Creations Head of Marketing, Zoe Ryan. She believes garden centres are an antidote to the general shift to online marketplaces and digital window shopping.
“With so much shopping done online, garden centres provide an increasingly rare opportunity to put product directly in the hands of potential consumers,” she said.
Toymaster on garden centres
Toymaster Development Manager Brian McLaughlin shares insight into the buying group’s support for the sector
How is Toymaster uniquely positioned to support garden centres looking to introduce or expand their toy offering?
We provide all new members with instant access to over 160 suppliers of toys and gifts, with trading terms already in place, so this would open up a number of new opportunities to any garden centre looking to make changes to their toy range in store. We have many niche/ specialist suppliers within our mix, meaning there will be many options for anyone looking to do something different with their toy range.
Toymaster also manages the invoicing and payments centrally via our members portal TIMS, which saves our members time and money by simplifying the process for them as well as providing them with a host of information to help them with their planning.
A growing number of garden centres have become Toymaster members over the past five or so years. Has this been part of your growth strategy or has this been an organic change?
It’s our strategy to look for the right outlets for Toymaster, and garden centres are definitely included within that as many of them have the space to offer a good toy range. They are located out of town, so not really competing with high street stores, and have a good footfall throughout the year.
From a supplier perspective, what new opportunities do your garden centre members open up?
Garden centres have a different consumer to your traditional high street toy store, so they offer up new opportunities to our suppliers as they are often looking for a different mix of products to stock compared to other Toymaster members.
Learn more: 01604 662922 or brian. mclaughlin@toymaster.co.uk.
Keel Toys
Jura Toys
Timeless appeal
EPOCH MAKING TOYS
0208 049 1377
sales@epochmakingtoys.com
As one of the bestselling and most beloved toy brands in the UK, the popularity of Sylvanian Families spans multiple generations. Focusing upon an array of traditional values and timeless themes such as nature, the toys offer open-ended play, giving children the freedom to create their own worlds and expand their imaginations.
A
classic toy, passed down
Perfect puzzles
RAVENSBURGER
01869 363800 | sales@ravensburger.com www.ravensburger.com
“ ”
through generations and enjoyed by all
Laura Tyler, Toys Manager, Longacres Bagshot on Sylvanian Families
The elaborately detailed collection of distinctive animal characters, like the Chocolate Rabbit Family and Flora Rabbit Family (new this year), are highly collectible and giftable, while classic homes like the Red Roof Cosy Cottage provide great starter sets which can be filled with furniture sets. They include the Triplets Care Set, Comfy Living Room Set, and Kitchen Playset.
Also available is an array of vehicles, such as the Family Picnic Van. Highly versatile, the boot door and seats can be turned in to a picnic table. Alternatively, it can be combined with the Bakery Shop Starter Set to make a mobile bakery. What’s more, about to launch its 15th series, the brand’s popular Baby Collectible blind bags make an excellent impulse purchase. With two new themes launched every year, next up is baking!
With this year marking 50 years of the familiar blue triangle logo, Ravensburger will celebrate in fitting style with a very special limited edition Christmas puzzle. The company’s annual festive puzzle is always a hit, and the 2024 iteration is set to be no exception – celebrating twenty years of Christmas puzzles with artist Roy Trower, the Christmas Village 1000-piece puzzle is a re-edition of the artist’s very first Ravensburger Christmas puzzle.
The latest addition to Ravensburger’s popular My Haven collection of 1000-piece puzzles is the Artist’s Shed. Staying true to the format that fans of the range know and love, series artist Steve Read has captured the essence of a calming, creative garden retreat in this beautiful puzzle – number eleven in the line-up and joining other personal escapes such as The Beach Hut and The Cosy Shed.
Jigsaws fans often enjoy a puzzle with a strong regional interest, and Dominic Davison’s Cotswolds Way 1000-piece depicts the tranquillity of an idyllic village scene on a summer’s evening. Other puzzles showcasing our wonderful land and townscapes launching in the second half include Norfolk Broads by artist Anne Searle. Contemporary art lovers will be drawn to the new Art & Soul collection from Ravensburger, which brings together illustrations by up-and-coming international artists. In a break from the familiar rectangular packaging the brand’s followers will recognise, each of the four, 750-piece puzzles in the range are presented in a distinctive square box, designed for modern appeal.
GOODIES GALORE!
FIZZ CREATIONS
01903 327006
www.fizzcreations.com
Fizz Creations is excited to be launching a brand-new collection of lighting, room accessories and kitchen gadgets in partnership with leading toy brand Squishmallows. From neon wall lights in the form of Mallow friends Cam, Fifi and Winston, through to waffle and pancake makers, everyone will want to join the Squish Squad!
The team is also very much looking forward to extending the company’s award-winning Tetris and PAC-MAN collections to feature innovative lighting. They make the perfect gift for both nostalgic players and those new to retro gaming.
And with Christmas just around the corner, Fizz Creations’ latest collection of pick-up games, including Cool as a Cucumber, Piece of Cake, Game On, Ex-Presso Crash and Fast Food, are the perfect impulse buy and make ideal stocking fillers!
And, of course....
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without everyone’s festive favourite… The Grinch!
The expanded 2024 collection has everything from games and stationery to drinkware and pet toys. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Grinchmas this festive season!
100% Recycled, 100% Huggable
400 million
KEEL TOYS LIMITED
01233 506363 | sales@keeltoys.com www.keeltoys.com
Keel Toys is the proud home of Keeleco, a remarkable range crafted from 100% recycled materials. Keel Toys has always been at the forefront of innovation and design within the soft toy and gift market for many years, and its sustainability journey has been no different. The goal was to create sustainable fabrics and products that were softer, and even more beautiful and huggable than before, and in the Keeleco range it more than succeeded.
Each and every Keeleco soft toy are manufactured and filled with 100% recycled polyester made from plastic waste. This process gives plastic a second life and uses less energy to produce than virgin polyester. As an example, 10 water bottles (500ml) will produce enough fibre to make an 18cm toy. The iconic Keel logo and hangtag are now formed from FSC card and attached to the toy with cotton, even the shipping cartons
The number of water bottles recycled in the manufacture of the Keeleco range. An impressive figure just four years after launch!
are recycled and sealed with paper tape. All toys are manufactured in an ICTI ethically audited factory to the highest social and environmental standards. With over 480 products and counting, Keel Toys remains committed to expanding this sustainable collection throughout the year.
Get ready to embark on an ecofriendly culinary adventure with the cute and collectable Snackies range of food themed characters. This collection comes 12 assorted in two sizes and is made from an exclusive, brand-new recycled tousled fabric, featuring Franco Fries, Pablo Pizza, Dottie Donut and even Harry Hot Sauce, to name but a few. There are also Snackies Love Bites versions of these holding hearts with sentimentbased slogans such as “Bun In A Million” on Baz Burger and “Love You a Latte” on Carlos Coffee. Susie Shrimp thinks these will be “Shrimply The Best” toys for the later part of 2024 and into 2025!
The best-selling Plant Bobballs have been a huge favourite with buyers and customers alike, so the new addition of Flower Bobballs are sure to be just as successful. The flowers given an adorable Bobball style makeover are a daisy, a sunflower, tulips and
even bluebells, making these a wonderful all year round gift.
Keeleco Baby, launched in 2021 to huge acclaim, welcomes new friends Fuzzy Duck and Percy Penguin to the super cute natural range, alongside Marcel Monkey and Huggy Giraffe. To convey the Eco awareness all the ranges are clearly labelled with the sustainable message and offered with a variety of retail solutions and POS.
But the surprises don’t end there!
Keel Toys are constantly evolving and improving their market leading Keeleco animal ranges by using newly developed recycled fabrics with innovative finishing techniques. This is sure to keep the Keeleco Wild, Farm & Sealife collections fresh and exciting going into 2025.
Dress for success!
A new suite of collaborative marketing packages tailored to gardens centres positions Rubies as a key partner for the sector, with FSDUs, seasonal promotions and materials to support its market-leading dress-up products
Recognising the unique opportunities garden centres present within its broader retail strategy, Rubies has recently initiated new POS Solution Packages to collaborate with garden centres for key seasonal beats, offering a wide range of licensed and non-licensed dress-up products. Rubies’ seasonal costumes, particularly for Halloween and Christmas, are a fantastic opportunity for garden centres. These include themed costumes for children and adults, as well as accessories. The flexibility of the products to fit seasonal themes makes them a perfect match for garden centres, which are already seasonal hot spots for consumers.
To make an impact on the shop floor of a garden centre, Rubies focuses on creating engaging and visually appealing FSDUs (Free Standing Display Units) with an array of its best-selling styles. These units are designed
competition is primarily other toys and costumes, in garden centres, Rubies displays need to compete with a broader range of products, from home and decor to outdoor furniture and plants. Therefore, its FSDUs are tailored to be not only eye-catching but also themed to complement the garden centre’s aesthetic, ensuring that they blend well yet stand out to customers.
Rubies supports its garden centre partners through a variety of means: FSDUs and displays: Rubies provides highquality, customisable FSDUs that can be easily adapted for different seasonal themes. These displays are designed to be easy to set up and maintain, ensuring they remain a focal point throughout the season.
Seasonal promotions and events: Rubies actively participates in seasonal promotions and events hosted by its garden centre partners. This includes providing promotional materials, running joint marketing campaigns, and offering special discounts or exclusive products during peak seasons like Halloween and Christmas.
Marketing Materials: Rubies supplies a range of marketing materials, including posters, banners, and social media content, to help garden centres promote its products both in-store and online.
By combining these strategies, Rubies ensures that garden centre partners have all the tools they need to successfully sell its costumes and maximise seasonal sales.
Rubies’ Sexy Deadpool Plush and X-Force , two contrasting designs that are perfect additions to any Marvel fan’s collection. These collectibles are must-have stock for the upcoming film release of Deadpool and Wolverine. Plus, prepare to shake up the living world with Rubies’ unnerving Beetlejuice Plush Phunny, a perfect gift for fans getting ready for the comeback of Academy Award-winning Beetlejuice. This ‘Ghost with the Most’ stands at 7.5 inches, all dressed up in his signature black and white striped suit, ready to scare anyone in sight!
01491 826500
customerservices@rubiesuk.com www.uk.rubiesmasquerade.com
Traditional toys and quirky gifts
REX LONDON
020 8746 1700 | info@rexlondon.com www.rexlondontrade.com
Since 1981, Rex London has delighted in designing, creating and searching for the perfect items to bring joy to your customers. Whether you’re looking for traditional toys, nostalgic novelties or quirky gifts, you’ll find a huge range of high-quality, affordable products at Rex London.
Customers will be shopping for Christmas earlier than ever before as they manage their budgets, so make sure you’re prepared with a selection of gorgeous gifts for any and every recipient.
Rex London are renowned for their children’s ranges, from pocket money treats to tea party sets. Shoppers looking for gifts for little ones can pick up one of Rex London’s sweet, hardwearing wooden toys, ideal for developing motor skills and imagination. Older kids will love the challenge of learning a new craft with a DIY kit, such as cross-stitch, origami or construction.
Delight a difficult-to-please grown up with something truly unique from the Spirit of Adventure collection, packed full of quirky gifts and gadgets. The fish-shaped hip flask is perfect for the outdoorsy type who loves to fish, camp or hike.
Complement your floral display with the Wild Flowers collection, showcasing the best of British wild flowers with beautiful botanical illustrations. Stock up on the bestselling sets of mini storage tins, perfect for housing succulents and cacti, or simply storing utensils, stationery and more.
Full product information can be found on the Rex London trade website, and a catalogue is available for free online or as a downloadable PDF. Shop today and enjoy no minimum order, with free delivery options available.
Cloudy with a chance of fun!
THAMES AND KOSMOS
01580 713000
sales@thamesandkosmos.co.uk www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk
Don’t miss!
Also new from Thames and Kosmos is Nunatak. The game was a huge hit at UKGE, with advance copies selling out in a day. The combination of strategy and its sheer table presence really caught the gaming community’s attention, with popularity soaring high as it goes on general release.
Calling all meteorologists-in-training! The all-new Weather and Climate Lab is a compact, 5-in-1 weather station that provides everything budding meteorologists need to investigate specific weather phenomena and the Earth’s climate system in general. Using the included five unique attachments, they’re able to execute a number of climate-related experiments and get a firsthand look at why the weather is one of the most popular topics of conversation and scientific study.
Planes, trains and automobiles
ALPHA TOYS LTD.
00 353 67 63800
UK: info@alpha-toys.co.uk / IE: info@banaghans.ie
Siku is a high quality German range of die cast vehicles covering many categories from farm and construction to emergency services and recreational. Whilst traditionally best known for its 1:32 models, particularly in the farm category, there is now tremendous interest in the pocket money blister models range. With retail prices ranging from £3.99 to £9.99, and with a wide array of models and lots of new launches, the Siku blister models range has become a staple for many stores and has fans eagerly awaiting the newest models at affordable prices.
The optimal way of displaying the Siku blister range is on a robust Siku-branded spinner stand. Siku spinner stands come in different sizes, so make sure to talk to the knowledgable team so they can recommend the best solution for you.
There is a spread of vehicles covered, including cars, trucks, planes, trains, buses, diggers, and tractors, and all the main licences are included: Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Bentley, Range Rover and Jaguar in cars, New Holland, John Deere, Massey Ferguson and Fendt in Tractors, along with construction favourites such as JCB, Caterpillar and Volvo.
The key selling point here is that this is an all year round seller and delivers good margin at an attractive retail price.
The Tendresse dolls have been so popular since their initial launch in 2017. With adorable designs, made in high quality, super soft materials, we know that Tendresse dolls are a nursery and playtime favourite for good reason!
Kaloo spokesperson
Keepsake dolls to treasure
JURA TOYS
020 8563 2888 | sales@juratoys.co.uk
The iconic soft toy brand Kaloo, is delighted to offer an extensive range of adorable keepsake dolls, that are sure to be treasured for years to come. Ideal from birth and made from the softest materials, the Tendresse doll collection will comfort little ones as they grow, soon becoming the star of any imaginative play, while looking right at home in a nursery from day one. All including a delicate ribbon necktie and soft, long legs for easy gripping, each Tendresse has their own individual style, outfit and personality!
The ideal first doll, the special and charming characters are made with love, with delicate embroidery details, thoughtful outfit accessories and even a long ribbon on their backs to write the owner’s name on. The machine washable dolls start their adventure packaged in an elegant gift box, making them the perfect baby shower, newborn or special birthday gift.
A true collector’s item, the Tendresse dolls look adorable together in whatever friendship combination little ones choose, they are sure to create a number of adventures and scenarios! In 9 different character options, the delightful dolls will become little one’s best friend and caring companion from day dot.
From Valentine who is ready to teach ballet skills, to the love heart-inspired Jade, sailor inspired Ellie and pretty Naomi in her elegant mustard dress. Who knows where their escapades will take them! Available in different size options including small, medium, large and even XXL (to make a great impact in nurseries), family homes can be filled with Tendresse joy whether it be sitting on a shelf, snuggled into a bed or even propped in the corner of the room ready for a story time.
First hop into licensing ORCHARD
TOYS
01953 859539 | sales@orchardtoys.com www.orchardtoys.com
The World of Peter Rabbit collection is Orchard Toys’ first ever character licence, and was launched in collaboration with Penguin Ventures. Fans of the Classic Beatrix Potter tales, and Orchard Toys games and puzzles, will love the new collection. It features six stunning games and jigsaws that blend the fun, educational and engaging gameplay of Orchard Toys with Beatrix Potter’s iconic characters to bring Peter Rabbit to life.
The collection, developed under licence from Penguin Ventures on behalf of Frederick Warne & Co., includes: Peter Rabbit Fish and Count (hailed as a Hero Toy for 2024 at London Toy Fair), Peter Rabbit Don’t Wake Mr. McGregor!, Peter Rabbit 4-in-a-box puzzles, Peter Rabbit Rabbit Race, Peter Rabbit Veg Patch Lotto, and Peter Rabbit Heads and Tails. As part of its marketing support package for garden centres, Orchard Toys is offering Peter Rabbit standees and Peter Rabbit shelf strips.
In addition to The World of Peter Rabbit collection, Orchard Toys also offers a wide selection of games and puzzles. Its best-selling games in garden centres over the last six months include Farmyard Heads and Tails, Smelly Wellies, Shopping List, Match and Spell and Big Dinosaurs, as well as some of its Mini Games, including Dinosaur Dominoes, Little Bug Bingo, Build a Beetle, Animal Match and Unicorn Jewels. The small and compact Mini Games are incredibly portable, making them perfect for travelling and keeping children entertained on the go.
Too cool for school
FLOSS & ROCK
01253 831500 enquiries@flossandrock.co.uk www.flossandrock.co.uk
If you’re starting to think about your back-to-school range, Floss & Rock has backpacks, belt bags and drinks bottles that are sure to stand out from the crowd.
Whether for school, travel or sports, Floss & Rock’s backpacks have all the fun features to make your customers’ next adventure run as smoothly as possible. Featuring a handy front pocket with a zip, padded and adjustable shoulder straps, two chunky shaped zip pulls, a side pocket for holding drinks bottles, and a handy carry loop - perfect for hanging up on a peg.
Sip sustainably with stainless steel, leak-proof drinks bottles. With a handy retractable spout and carry handle, the bottle is vacuum insulated and will keep drinks nice and cool during long summer days!
Style them your way (either across your waist or over your shoulder) these bright, brilliant belt bags, a must-have for stylish adventurers who want to keep treasured items close. Wipe clean and recyclable, each belt bag has two handy compartments, an adjustable strap and two lovely chunky shaped zip pulls.
The drinks bottles fit perfectly in the backpack’s bottle holder pockets and the belt bags are great for adventures that require less equipment. With six super designs to choose from, either mix and match or stick to your favourite design - so much fun awaits!
Floss & Rock is an award-winning international children’s toy and gift brand, based in the North West seaside town of Blackpool - the home of candy ‘Floss’ and sticks of ‘Rock’, hence the name!
SIMBA SMOBY TOYS UK
01620 674778 | www.simba-dickie-group.de
The EXIT Aksent Planter Table XL with greenhouse and gardening tools is a large-sized planter table for teaching children about nature. The EXIT Aksent planter table XL stands on legs so that several children can garden at the same time. The standard included root mat ensures that excess water can escape and the plants can grow optimally. The greenhouse enables the plants to grow in all weather conditions.
Something for everyone
RAINBOW DESIGNS
01329 227300
sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk
www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk
Rainbow Designs’ expansive and exciting range of classic licensed characters will brighten up garden centre displays, with adorable bunnies, bears and caterpillars from Rainbow Designs’ award-winning, licensed classic character collections! With bestselling ranges including Peter Rabbit, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, Paddington Bear, Guess How Much I Love You, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and The Snowman and Snowdog, these collections offer beautiful high quality gifts and easy pick up lines for every generation of garden centre visitor.
Get in character
PEERS HARDY
jbarrett@peershardy.co.uk www.peershardy.co.uk
Peers Hardy are the UK’s biggest distributor of character licensed watches, jewellery, accessories and stationery. In addition, the company also supplies the WOW Generation (6-12 year olds) and Sweet Dreams (3-6 year olds) lifestyle brands featuring stationery, cosmetics and art and crafts products. All of the ranges are affordably priced and are available with display solutions perfect for a toy shop, gift shop or garden centre. Peers Hardy also produces a collection of adult and children’s watches, plus a wall clock in conjunction with the RSPB. Watches are available in their own display units and these items are perfect for garden centres.
Commotion and PolarB – a marriage made of sustainable wood
New Polar B products available from Commotion include beautifully designed wooden role-play toys in soft, muted colours. Role-play enables children to participate in imaginative play activities, learn about the jobs people do, and to further develop their communication and language skills.
The new brand shares Commotion’s ethos of believing that learning through play is a critical part of a child’s development, valuing the importance of providing toys that are designed with multifunctional aspects of educational purpose.
Commotion is a worldwide distributor of educational toys. Their Best of PolarB range is available now for wholesale purchase via pre-order, with stock due late summer 2024. 01732 225821 | info@commotion.co.uk | www.commotion.co.uk
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