Nursery Today September 2022 by Lema Publishing

SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE 12 VOLUME 25

28 Etopia

Paul paul@lemapublishing.co.ukNaish

Asha Bhalsod asks are you Q4 ready? Q4 is Amazon’s cash cow, and every brand should want to be a part of it.

Cover Story

Contributors

Director

Chairman Malcolm

Editor

18 Green Sheep Group

Christine christine@lemapublishing.co.ukContreras

Features 14

Online4Baby highlights why customer service is at the heart of their business.

Retail Matters: Online4Baby

Barking Mad

38 Retail Matters: Natural Baby Shower

Ad Manager

Rick

Carriers

Production Director

Pramland’s John Barker is taking a view on customer spending habits, how this has altered amongst the ‘Cost of Living’ crisis and action that Pramland has taken to assist.

2022 is set to be yet another record-breaking year for the business, with multiple product launches and ground-breaking social media campaigns.

the

Co-Founder Victoria Hampson explains why formulating a strategy to ‘ride the wave’ and not only survive but thrive during these turbulent times should be a key focus. Spotlight: &

Regulars 6 News 12 Retailer Profile 25, 41 New Products 42 The Baby AssociationProducts

Penny penny@lemapublishing.co.ukFranks

Mark mark@lemapublishing.co.ukNaish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.ukNaish robert@lemapublishing.co.ukThomas team

Production rick@lemapublishing.co.ukVickers

Lema Publishing Ltd 1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930 www.nurserytoday.co.uk contents p30

Slings 20 Spotlight: Twin/Triplet Prams & Pushchairs 30 Monitors 38 Spotlight: Furniture 40 Spotlight: Toys

Managing

Circulation Robert

On a final note, Harrogate Int. Nursery Fair is round the corner, with the show in full swing preparing to open their doors on 16th October. We will bring you a full preview of the show next month, however if you are looking to pre-register to attend or for more information simply visit www.nurseryfair.com here at Nursery Today and the Nursery Industry would like to take this opportunity to pass our respects and deepest condolences to the Royal Family.

As natural successor to the throne, it is expected that Charles will be officially proclaimed King on Saturday 10th September at St James›s Palace in EveryoneLondon. here at Nursery Today and on behalf of the Nursery Industry would like to take this opportunity to pass our respects and deepest condolences to the Royal Family.

elcome to Septembertheissue. At the time of going to press, news has been announced by Buckingham Palace that Queen Elizabeth II passed away.

altered amongst the ‘Cost of Living’ crisis and action that Pramland has taken to assist. As John states in his article, getting consumers to now part with a 20% upfront deposit is currently near on impossible commenting that for them, the solution has been to reduce this to an amount people are happier with and have now dropped this to 10%. As a result of this reduction, they have seen an immediate increase in people’s willingness to order. To read more simply turn to page 26.

Born in 1926 the Queen served the nation for more than 70 years and was the longest reigning of any British monarch and the secondlongest recorded of any monarch of a sovereign country. At the time of her death, Elizabeth was also Queen of 14 other Commonwealth realms, in addition to the United Kingdom.

editor’s letter

LinkedIn:Instagram:www.nurserytoday.co.uknurserytodayNurseryToday

You will also find a number of features this month highlighting products that are available now to order covering Carriers & Slings (page 14), Twin Prams & Strollers (page 20), Monitors (page 30), Furniture (page 38) and Toys (page 40).

It is understood that she passed at the age of 96 surrounded by her family at her home in Balmoral, including her son and heir to the throne Charles, the Prince of Wales, and her manyChurchillministersWilliam and Princegrandsons, PrinceHarry.Herreignspanned15primestartingwithWinstonthroughtoLizTruss.Forofus,QueenElizabethwas the only reigning monarch during our own lifetimes to date.

September is also the month where we have a new Prime Minister, Liz Truss. During a time of economic uncertainty and the continuing cost of living crisis, Truss has now announced plans to cap average household energy bills at £2,500 a year from October. Hopefully this will ease the pressure for many over the coming months. Furthermore, Truss has also announced for businesses a six month support package.Whileon this subject, our contributors are giving their views this month with Pramland’s John Barker focussing on customer spending habits, how this has

Over at Natural Baby Shower (starting on page 36), Victoria Hampson gives advice during these turbulent times where price rises are everywhere and consumer confidence is low and subsequently formulating a strategy to ‘ride the wave’ should be a key focus for Online4Babyretailers.havealso been busy looking at how customer service has become a focal point for their business and unveils a series of changes to their customer services strategy as part of a plan to meet the changing needs of customers. Simply turn to page 10 to find out more.

4 nursery Everyonetoday

The aim for Sassy is to create inspired toys that captivate infants, providing structure for lifelong learning. Every product must have a developmental purpose.

getsBabyBaseSassy

6 nursery today

For more information about the show visit www. nurseryfair.com

Little ones will want to dive into a bath full of fun and colour with Mini U’s stain and mess-free Bath Bombs, Fizzy Plops and Bath Crayons.

Sponsored bynews

MAM Soothers are Parent Approved!

International brand Anex together with AR studio FFFACE.ME and British illustrator Mr. Woody Woods have presented the world’s first baby stroller with an augmented reality filter. Air-X Woo helps children actively explore the illustrations on the stroller and interact with them during the walk using AR. In this way, augmented reality turns an ordinary stroller into a big toy or spaceship that can be explored together with parents.

Air-X Woo has an eye-catchy design and FFFACE.ME’s Instagram filter helps bring the alien pattern from illustrator Mr. Woody Woods to life in augmented reality. So in Air-X Woo there are 3 aliens who are capable of doing somersaults, hovering in the air, moving, and winking. In addition, they can be easily put on your hand or returned back to the illustration. The manufacturers point out that this is the first “alive” AR-stroller on the market.

ABC Design

www.anexbaby.com

With over 34 years of experience in developing and designing exclusive, high-quality, prams and accessories for families around the world, ABC Design has developed the Avus to deliver ultimate comfort and convenience in the country, the city or on holiday.

Two of MAM’s much-loved soothers have been put to the test by Made for Mums, one of the UK’s largest networks for parents.TopTesters tried the Original Night Soother and Air Soother with their babies under one year old. 100% of the testers testing the Original Night Soother, and 90% of the testers testing the Air Soother said that they would recommend them to other parents, meaning both soothers have been awarded the Made for Mums Parent Approved badge! www.mambaby.com

Join the Trixie CROWD Sales representatives / agents wanted interested? Send an e-mail to sam.tyack@trixie-baby.com 8 nursery today

The German brand’s most adaptable and agile pushchair yet has just bagged a Bizziebaby Gold Award, receiving 5/5 reviews across the board.

Country Manager for UK and Ireland, Fiona Suffield, commented: “We’re delighted that the Avus has received a Gold Award by Bizziebaby! As a heritage brand in Germany, it’s fantastic to receive recognition in the UK, especially just after the launch of Avus. At ABC Design, we pride ourselves on quality and safety so this award is a great achievement.”

This summer My Babiie partnered with Save the Children to create an exclusive new product range with proceeds from every sale going to the charity, with Baby Santiago being the first to try exclusive new range of products co-designed with Save the Children to stimulate babies’ senses. Dani Dyer, supporting the campaign stated, “Save the Children is a wonderful organisation and do so much amazing work both here in the UK and around the world. The new product range My Babiie have created with the charity is fantastic, Santi just loves riding in his stroller! I hope this new collaboration raises a lot of money.”

GoldBizziebabybagsAward

GiraBugabooeIntroducing The chair designed for all ages, adjusta ble in one secon builtSustainabilitydtolast The B ugaboo Gira e will launch on September 20t h and is now available for pre order via t he B2B por tal. Designed for all ages Adjustable in one second

This month Online4Baby highlights why customer service is at the heart of their business.

Congratulations to Jody Burton who has been promoted to Customer Services Manager following over 4 years’ experience at Online4Baby. Jody owned 53 prams during her son’s early years and brings her extensive product knowledge to the role, she’s our go to expert on all things baby and toddler.

RETAIL MATTERS

The Puggle Academy will be provided by in house product expert Jody Burton and includes a Dragon’s Den style pitch where attendees can contribute their ideas for the product range.

Welcome to Lee Mathews who recently joined Online4Baby as Head of Customer Services. Lee has over 10 years’ experience in customer services including most recently in the veterinary sector. He believes puppies and babies both give great cuddles, and is excited to join Online4Baby at an exciting time of growth.

Online4Baby are delighted to be a Which?

marks the launch of the Puggle Training Academy. The programme will enable all colleagues to expand their understanding of the Puggle product range meaning they’re better equipped to answer customer’s questions and deliver the Online4Baby mission to support parents in deciding what product is best for them.

already have an excellent reputation as demonstrated through their score of 4.6 from over 25,000 reviews on TrustPilot. Within Customer Services, the team aim to provide a first response to customer contacts within seconds, and currently provide a full resolution within an average of 3 hours. By extending the Live Chat opening hours they expect to improve the customer experience even more, something that is vitally important for online Productbusiness.knowledge is another area of focus for Online4Baby and September

Staff Spotlight

Retail matters

Head of Brand, Sophie Parfitt, adds “social media is increasingly important as a form of communication with our customers, it’s especially important for online retailers and means we can

Recommended Provider for Baby & Child Retailers 2021.10 nursery today

Social media remains a crucial platform within Online4Baby’s strategy for customer communications and TikTok has fast become the channel of choice within their customer base. Their 50,000 followers are able to ask for product recommendations and receive a personalised response to help them decide what is best for them.

Customer centric culture Online4Baby are excited to roll out a series of changes to their customer services strategy as part of a plan to meet the changing needs of customers. This includes extending their Live Chat hours from 8am to 8pm after analysis showed over 75% of customers preferred to get in touch through this platform. As well as increasing agent capacity during core hours to reduce waiting times and make sure customers can always speak to someone as soon as they get in Online4Babytouch.

provide the same sort of individual advice that a customer would experience in a physical store. Focussing on customer experience is a key element in our mission to bring Power to Parents by bringing them the best products at the best prices, and crucially, helping them to make the right purchasing decision for them.”

To ﬁ nd out more, contact Sam! sam.tyack@trixie-baby.com Everything you need for a warm nest where comesofimaginationthelittleonestolife!

Yes! We are expanding our social media presence; it is so important. Most people will visit the website after seeing our posts.

What about car seats – do your customers have a good knowledge and understand the varying key car seat stages and requirements?

Our greatest success has been the reception we have received, everyone has been very positive about the store and what we are

I would say double strollers particularly! There’s going to be lots of winter twins this year!

It is about 50/50. Some customers know which brands they are interested in and why, and just want to have a look at the physical stroller and find out more about it. Others have no idea what they are looking for and want a bit of guidance. This is what we needed when we were looking!

When we were shopping for our son’s stroller and accessories, we found that the few shops we had been to were impersonal and the large chains are just focussed on selling. We actually ended up buying something we weren’t that happy with and didn’t know much about. We wanted to create a shop that would help new and existing parents find something that will suit their lifestyles and that

Eventually we hope to expand and become a community hub –providing information on local resources for parents.

We are always looking for new brands and hope to expand our range. Please get in contact if any brands are reading this and interested in working with us at info@mybabystroller.co.uk

What impact will this move have on your business?

they are interested in prior to entering the store?

We are posting on social media to

We have a wide range of the different car seats and can make some helpful recommendations for anyone who isn’t sure. We have found that a lot of people fall back on a couple of main brands, but there are other options that may be better, so we like to show these off.

How have you conveyed this news to your customers?

Youoffering.have recently relocated to a new showroom in Birmingham, what was the reason for this?

Again, this varies! Some have done lots of research. Others are hoping that you will help them.

they will be happy with.

It will positively affect us, we will be sad to say goodbye to the locals of our old shop, but the new one has ample parking for customers, is in a great location amongst other amazing retailers and is more central in Birmingham.Weareexcited to be part of the Edgbaston Village market which takes place several times a year.

How important is your website to the Extremely,business?most of our business is done online. It is a key factor to showing our range off and delivering information that will be helpful to parents. We are constantly building it to try and make parents journeys easier. It is a great tool, but we are always pushing for customers to come in person, to see the items first hand.

Do you feel you are an expertise within a specific product category?

Can you tell us a little about My Baby Stroller, what was the inspiration behind first opening your doors?

Does social media play a pivotal role for the business?

12 nursery today

Richard Smerdon with business partner (and wife) Laura

Strolling successto

We are a new family company and have learned a lot about the industry, but it is still challenging remembering how all the strollers work, especially as we have so many brands! We have had to learn different areas of running a business, which has been hard work.

You currently stock a wide selection of nursery product across a variety of categories, do you offer the same items in-store as you do on your Thewebsite?newshop will give us an opportunity to expand our in-store collection. We have some key brands that we showcase, but if a customer is interested in a pram, we will get it in so they can have a look at it.

retail MY BABY STROLLER

Do you feel that your customers are well researched on products that

keep our followers updated and have some exciting marketing plans in place to drive awareness.

Since opening, what has been your largest challenge and of course what has been your greatest success?

At present, do you have a particular product category that is performing well for My Baby Stroller?

This month Nursery Today had the pleasure to catch up with My Baby Stroller’s owner, Richard Smerdon to find out more about their business and their recent move to a new, larger showroom.

We loved the Kings Heath area, but the store was too small for the expanding range we wanted to show off. Our new shop in Edgbaston is beautiful and more open plan.

The support from the brands has been outstanding, they are very in touch and cheering small businesses like

I think we have a broad range of knowledge across each category, through experience, double strollers, all terrain strollers and holiday strollers are probably where we are most

social media, Nursery Today and local baby groups to see what is popular.

We loved the Kings Heath area, but the store was too small for the expanding range we wanted to show off. Our new shop in Edgbaston is beautiful and more open plan.

nursery today 13

We have only just started on trust pilot and are aiming for 5! We are proud of our current score – we are only a small team so it’s easy to keep a personal touch in each customer interaction and this is the feedback that we get.

achieved a Trust Pilot score of 4.1 – how important is customer service to the business and to maintain the positive reviews that the business has secured?

Finally, is there anything on the horizon for the business that you would like to share with Nursery

Youconfident.have

support by the brands that you stock, or is there anything further they could do to assist?

I love chatting to the people that come in and you want to find out how they have gotten on later down the line. It’s really important to our business that we continue being a friendly company.

We are always looking for new brands and hope to expand our range.

Will we see you at Harrogate this year? How important is this trade show to you as a business?

Today readers?

Yes, we will be there, we are excited to meet new leads and say hi to our existing brands.

Please get in contact if any brands are reading this and interested in working with us at Howmybabystroller.co.ukinfo@doyoucurrentlyfind new

products that might offer a point of difference or keep up with current Wetrends?arealways researching through

Are you currently looking for new brands to showcase in-store or on your website?

Do you feel that you are well

ours on all the time. They are very quick to answer any queries and constantly keeping us knowledgeable and in the loop.

Just that we are excited to open our new store on the 10th September, we hope to see lots of people around. We are looking to work with local nurseries and play groups and to continue expanding our range in our new beautiful store.

The unique design provides an easy way for parents to keep their little one close by, providing a bridge between a wrap and semi-rigid carrier. Adjustable to suit baby and parent and approved by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as a “hip healthy” product for further peace of mind. The stylish carrier offers an ‘Easy Wear System’ meaning parents can simply click, strap and tie the carrier into place. To protect baby at all times, the central section, head and back support are padded for maximum comfort, guaranteeing a correct carrying position. The carrier is suitable for newborns of at least 3.5kg up to babies up to 15kg. www.chicco.co.uk

This category is heavily researched by parents before purchase. This is largely due to how individual a process it is finding the right baby carrier for each family. It can be a daunting process, so we have created a broad range of information that is available to our retailers in multiple formats on our Partner Hub and Training Academy to help potential customers choose the right carrier for them.

Time to shine the light on baby carriers & slings. Here we highlight a fantastic selection that are all available to order now.

Have a bit of comfort

Carriers are cost effective parenting tools with immeasurable benefits for both parent and child; from the practical and physical to the mental and emotional, carriers simply make parents and babies’ lives easier and happier.

The Boppy ComfyFit Carrier from Chicco encourages parent and baby bonding through a safe and secure, ready to use baby carrier that offers both parent-facing and outward facing positions.

Carriers & Slings rose sharply in popularity during the pandemic, do you feel this growth is set to stay?

What makes these so popular with parents?

Nursery Today caught up with Ergobaby UK’s Marketing Manager Holly Brewer to find out a little more on this growing category.

Is this a category that has continual innovation?

Our Aerloom carrier utilises the production technique of 3D knitting with yarn that is made of 87% post-consumer recycled polyester and certified to the Global Recycled Standard to be used in the process. 3D knitting involves knitting every panel to shape, which reduces material waste (and the resources used, and impacts generated by making said material) compared with cutting individual pieces of fabric to shape. Each collection is made in small quantities to avoid excess inventory and each carrier arrives in a recyclable shipper box, no extra packaging necessary.

Does it help is a product has a level of endorsement from a recognised association?

The Ergobaby Aerloom carrier is made to fit to parents’ daily lives, redefining the way parents think of comfort through fit, lighter weight, and Adjustingairflow.from newborn to toddler (7-35lbs / 3.2-15.9kg) Aerloom offers three carry positions, but its innovation is in how it’s made. Each carrier is artfully crafted from premium Formaknit Fabric, made with 87% post-consumer recycled polyester, and is knitted to shape and trimmed to spec, meaning less waste in the manufacturing process. Each collection is made in small quantities to avoid excess inventory and each carrier arrives in a recyclable shipper box; no extra packaging necessary. www.ergobaby.co.ukservice@ergobaby.co.uk

toMadefit

As baby carriers become more and more of a must-have item for all parents, consumers expect all good retailers to stock a variety of models to browse and compare.Whatdrives additional footfall in store is making different models available for consumers to try on and having staff that are confident in demonstrating them. Our Ergobaby Training Academy is an interactive training programme specially designed to provide you and any employees with the necessary specialist knowledge for effective handling of products and qualified interaction with customers. Ergobaby’s priority is to empower sales teams to provide competent advice that meets customer needs to ensure customer satisfaction and customer loyalty all in one easily-accessible, collaborative location, enabling them to engage customers and ultimately make sales.

Endorsements from recognised associations are particularly important when it comes to issues such as Hip Dysplasia and back health. As education around the importance of correct positioning and support for both baby and wearer increases, more parents are turning to accreditations to confirm they are purchasing products which ensure the best quality of care for their child and themselves.

Do you feel that consumers are researching this product category prior to making a purchase decision?

How can stocking these products help retailers drive additional footfall to their store or website?

Innovation is continually driving growth across this category. One example of this is that alongside parents unilaterally wanting the best for their children, they are becoming increasingly concerned with what’s best for the planet too. We’re seeing customers delve into brand’s eco credentials more and more, with a focus on sustainable practices and processes.

Whilst the pandemic created a microclimate in which baby carriers became something parents couldn’t do without; these previously enforced scenarios are now embraced by consumers meaning the popularity of carriers is here to stay. Practical around the home, on local errands and adventures, and for travel further afield as the world opens up, carriers are advantageous in all kinds of parenting moments.

Coffee Break

14 nursery Spotlighttoday CARRIERS & SLINGS

see all my features

savvy™ baby carrier

Keep baby close in the ergonomic carrier that makes baby wearing all about hugging, not lugging. For more information and all sale enquiries, please contact Joie on 01889 808 900 or email: uksales@joiebaby.com

tote your cutest carry-on

Share the joy at joiebaby.com

Now available in Black and new Moon Grey, the clever design perfectly adapts to your body shape, allowing you to comfortably carry your baby close to you. Putting it on has never been simpler, as you pull it over your head just like a t-shirt. The ergonomical seat has been specially created to keep the baby in the correct position at all times, whilst providing a comfortable and safe place for them to sit. The carrier also features additional support for the head and neck of the baby in those first few months and can then be easily adjusted to perfectly suit their shape as they grow from 0months to 9kgs.

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony is the perfect choice for parents looking for a soft-structured, ergonomic baby carrier with a luxurious feel.

www.chicco.co.uk

Baby Carrier Harmony is easy to use, lightweight, and can be easily packed into a pram or nappy bag. BabyBjörn are launching Baby Carrier Harmony in 3 new colours this September including stylish, classic Black. Baby Carrier Harmony in Black is easy to match, easy to style and easy to love.

inCarryingharmony

clever magnetic buckles on the shoulder straps that make putting it on and adjusting the straps yourself, a doddle, with no twisting or extra pairs of hands necessary.

Tel: 01889 808 uksales@joiebaby.com900

healthyHip

Smart carrier4in1

Thelugging.savvyTboasts

This modern and stylish baby carrier features a whole host of positions for you and your baby to provide comfort and support with the hip-healthy “M” shape position.

Meet the new savvy from Joie, the 4in1 baby carrier that makes baby wearing all about hugging, not

Joie have carefully engineered a design that will cradle your precious cargo’s naturally C-shaped spine, hugging them in their favourite foetal position that’s best for both snuggling and developing.Theoptimal support of savvy lets your little one sit smart in an ergonomic M-shaped position that promotes healthy spine and hip development, certified hip healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.

It’s time to strap up and embrace… the Ara Carrier. Tel: 01454 326 555 sales@redkitebaby.com www.redkitebaby.co.uk

A pressure-relieving waist belt, padded back support and shoulder straps make Baby Carrier Harmony incredibly comfortable. The supersoft mesh feels like a cuddle to babies and provides a constant feeling of closeness between both parent and little one.

Easy fit for use

Endorsed by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, the Ara Carrier has it all. Whether being faced with the world ahead, nestled into you to fall asleep gently on your chest or just wanting to watch pass by behind you.

Suitable from birth and with wide padded shoulder and wrist strap. You can be as comfortable wearing it as your baby is sleeping in it. Features an easy access pocket on the front of the carrier for handy supplies whilst you are on the go.

info@babybjorn.com

16 nursery Spotlighttoday CARRIERS & SLINGS

The new Easy Fit carrier from Chicco is exactly as it sounds – easy to wear, easy to fit and easy to use!

StoryCover Green Sheep Group

InnovationProductGroupSheepGreen

Having successfully navigated its way through the turmoil of Covid-19 Green Sheep Group are now building a permanent field-based team to ensure its retailers are fully supported and communication is seamless. The brand values instore space more than ever and

Boasting its biggest year of new product development since their award-winning SnüzPod, the designers at Snüz, have been busy launching three new products, including a pioneering new pregnancy pillow, while The Little Green Sheep team were super excited to see both Izzy Judd and Vogue Williams using their best-selling Natural Moses Basket for their new arrivals.

WhiteSnüzCurve 18 nursery today

Sales Team at GSG

ith multiple product launches, innovation, strategic appointments, ground-breaking social media campaigns and even more celebrity fans, 2022 is set to be yet another record-breaking year for the Green Sheep Group, the nursery experts behind the iconic Snüz brand and the naturally beautiful brand The Little Green Sheep.

2022 is set to be yet another record-breaking year for the Green Sheep Group, with multiple product launches and groundbreaking social media campaigns.

Green Sheep Group are excited to announce that they will be taking their brand Snüz to Harrogate International Nursery Fair this year after an incredibly successful showcase in 2021. All three of their new product launches will be there, so get your appointment booked now! Contact Snüz to secure your spot.

The SnüzFino Cot Bed is a truly striking piece of furniture. Thoughtfully designed, the Cot Bed easily converts into a toddler bed for little ones up to 4 years. From 0+, the design has 2 mattress heights that can be adjusted as little ones grow, then when the time is right, the sides can be removed to reveal a fabulous cot bed for growing toddlers! The true highlight, however, is the unique canopy design (extension kit bought separately), promising to create the coolest den for little ones to cosy up in, for a happy night’s sleep.

A significant year for newness, Snüz have unveiled three striking new products including a contemporary 3-piece Nursery Furniture SetSnüzFino, a truly modern Moses basket - SnüzBaskit and SnüzCurve, a pregnancy pillow designed to perfection by a plethora of experts.

“With a stronger team than ever at Green Sheep Group, it’s safe to say that everyone is looking forward to seeing what next year brings, particularly further strengthening our relationships with all our retail partners in 2023 and beyond.”

appointment of Brett Capon as Sales Director earlier this year, the Green Sheep Group have more recently welcomed Josh Bishop as Head of International Sales and Carey Devine as Head of UK Sales, to further develop its sales team.

See you Soon…

understands how beneficial it is for customers to see its products, especially the Snüz furniture, in a home environment, so nurturing close relationships with all its retailers is of vital importance and the sales team are key to Followingthis.the

Appointed to drive the strategic growth in the UK as well as oversee the sales team, Carey joins Green Sheep Group with over 15 years of experience in senior account and sales management roles in various FMCG markets. Carey is “delighted to be joining such a well-established and respected company with fantastic products and brands.” She is looking forward to working with Green Sheep Group’s valued national and independent partners and meeting them at the Harrogate Nursery Fair.

Having seen a gap in the market for a contemporary Moses basket, SnüzBaskit was born, a 100% recycled Moses basket that brings traditional comfort and portability into the modern world. Crafted from KinderFelt, Snüz’s new, soft, safe and 100% recycled material will look at home in any space. With a unique blend of conventional and innovative design features, Snüz has created the next generation of Moses baskets, to support babies sleep in the early stages of development.Seeingthebrand embark on a new category, the innovative SnüzCurve is a true masterpiece ensuring mums-to-be get the very best sleep as well. The Pregnancy Support Pillow was developed over 2 years with the support of expert health professionals, such as Chiropractors, Midwives and Physios. As well as support, SnüzCurve uniquely provides long term benefits and encourages the correct sleep posture during pregnancy. With its innovative KneeBlade, it guides the body into that perfect sleep position, taking pressure of hips, legs and ankles whilst also supporting the upper body.

New Product Development for Snüz

incorporating their retailers and ongoing informative posts. The brand continues to support mums-to-be during their pregnancy journey by offering a Pregnancy Sleep Series, which can be accessed post-purchase.

This trio of launches benefited from a truly collaborative concept as the retailers have played a key part in all three of the new products, something the design team are extremely excited about. Product design and features were driven directly from retailer network feedback.TheGroups Chief Executive, Roger Allen added:

The launch of SnüzCurve brought one of the biggest social media campaigns ever seen by Snüz including user generated content, a teaser campaign

nursery today 19

Contact Details: Email: trade@greensheepgroup.com Tel: 01789 734022

SnüzFino Toddler Bed Roomset

Dark SnüzBaskitGrey with Natural Stand

Bringing a wealth of knowledge, Josh has 8 years’ experience leading international sales teams in new emerging markets, developing strategic international partnerships and has established new strategic markets through launches into China, Brazil and Germany. Prior to returning to the UK in 2018 Josh was based in Singapore for 4 years managing the SEA marketplace. Josh is “excited to join a fast-paced emerging brand with huge potential internationally.”

There has been an upward trend in the numbers over the last 20 years. The rise is attributed to fertility treatments, the survival rates of premature babies and women starting their families later.With the wheeled goods sector buoyant with brands continually updating their ranges, and including prams/ pushchairs that are suitable for families who are celebrating the birth of twins or triplets, have you got products in-store or on your website that cater to multiple births? We highlight a number of great wheeled solutions that are all ready to order now.

Rear seat: from birth to approx. 3 years (0-15kg)

For parents who have twins or two children under the age of 5, Leclerc have the solution as you can easily connect two Leclerc Baby strollers with the Leclerc Baby Duo/twin connectors to create a twin or duo stroller.

winning GazelleThe Award S is the first travel system by CYBEX that can be used as a single, siblingboth or Suitableconfigurations. differentofferingtwin pushchair,over20frombirthupuntil four years (approx. 22kg), this travel system is designed to be future proof and grow with the family, simply add an infant carrier such as the Cloud Z2 i-Size, second seat unit or carrycot. The Gazelle S can also be folded with both seat units into a compact, self-standing package. Proving popular with consumers thanks to the integrated adapters, meaning no additional connectors are needed to convert from a single to a double. www.cybex-online.com

Fun for two

Colour: Black/Grey www.gracobaby.eu

With the Leclerc Baby stroller Duo/Twin connectors you have fun for two!

Parents out on a separate trip? You can easily remove the three connecting pieces and use the prams separately. Many parents appreciate the ability to customize the way they use the stroller. www.leclercbaby.com

According to Twins Trust in the UK about one in every 65 pregnancies results in a multiple birth, with 10,757 twins born in 2019 in the UK and 156 triplets or more*.

Seeing double

any narrow door.

20 nursery today

Double the fun with Stadium Duo

A tandem double pushchair, the Stadium Duo is whatwhenThehandParentsthemstadium-stylefitsThisfunctionality. combinesstrollerultra-manoeuvrableanthateffortlesslycomfortandversatilepushchaircomfortablytwochildrenandtheraisedseatingassuresbothofaregettingaviewoftheworld. willlovetheone-second,one-fold,withanautomaticstoragelock. StadiumDuoisabletostandupbyitselffoldedanditsslimdesignmeansnomattermodethepushchairisin,itwilleasilyfitthrough

Full of versatility

* * source Office of National Statistics/General Registry Office, Scotland & Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency

Front seat: from approx. 6 months to 3 years (max. 15kg)

Feature TWIN & MULTIPLE STROLLERS

Tel: 01454 326 www.redkitebaby.co.uksales@redkitebaby.com555

Meet Joie’s evalite duo, a cheery combo designed to carry two littles and all their luggage without the load. This lightweight luxury makes travelling with two, twice as nice.

Styled on a gloss finished aluminium frame with contrasting and a striking pistachio pop of colour. Textured luxury fabric in dark Graphite is the height of sophistication and style.

Converting from a single to double in just three clicks, this is the perfect pushchair for growing families and it even offers a perfect solution for twins too!

With a Gold Made For Mums 2022 award to its name, the Push Me Dubl is the double stroller that is bound to make your days a whole lot easier.

The instant Sure Lock attachments smartly sync Joie infant carriers to the rear seat of the pushchair, for a quick and easy dock, lock and roll.

twinlightweightSuperstroller

Feature TWIN & MULTIPLE STROLLERS

Tel: 01889 808 uksales@joiebaby.com900

Just three clicks

It’s versatile and easy to manoeuvre, fitting through most standard doorways and the side by side seating position offers comfort for babies and parents from your very first stroll together.

Introducing the amazing Push Me Dubl Twin Stroller. A super lightweight twin stroller for babies and toddlers from birth. A smooth and easy to function stroller that makes lightwork of travelling with two children.

As one of the lightest tandem pushchairs on the market, the evalite duo weighs in at just over 10kg, for ease of driving, riding, lifting and loading. With a seriously smooth one hand fold, evalite duo packs flat enough to fit in small boots and snug storage spaces.

Prepare for the future with the new and improved Bugaboo Donkey 5.

This sleek and compact stroller is able to fit through standard internal doors and is packed with tonnes of handy features. From one handed easy fold to a handy storage size in one easy swoop, independent bumper bars, a full rain cover, fleece lined footmuffs which feature unique hand protectors, a large shopping basket for all your daily goods with a 5kg storage capacity, a handy peek-a-boo window and many, many more.

www.bugaboo.comClaire.fedigan@bugaboo.com

Twice as nice

There are pockets in each hood for your essentials, and large baskets under each seat so you have room to take everything you need out and about. Suitable from birth with adjustable leg rests and multi-position recline. The UV-protected canopy above makes them super comfortable and safe to ride and nap in. Although it’s a double stroller, its lightweight frame allows for agile handling and maximum portability, folding down neatly and compactly. One doublysuperb design, that’s perfectly comfy & stylish for two. Available in 4 stylish fashions to suit any taste.

Feature TWIN & MULTIPLE STROLLERS

Contact hello@mybabiie.com to find out www.mybabiie.commore.

Tel: 01889 808 uksales@joiebaby.com900

Stroll in style with the My Babiie Double stroller

Double the fun with My Babiie

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double folds small for double the Narrowadventures.atjust66.5cmwide and lightweight at just 10.5kg, the City Tour 2 Double is the ultimate travel companion with its ultracompact quick fold with auto-lock and ability to fit through most doors with ease.

This is the perfect affordable solution for firstborns and siblings or twins. This twin stroller is lightweight and super easy to fold away and open for its class, but still sturdy enough to handle 2 kids up to 15kg (each).

The adjustable calf supports and near flat seat reclines allows you to find the most comfortable position for your children while the storage basket and UV 50+ canopy with peek-a-boo windows and sun visors provides you the ultimate convenience. Customize your ride with the City Tour 2 Double carrycot and a variety of accessories!Discovermore by visiting their website: babyjogger.eu or contacting Christopher Grech-Cini via the below email: Christopher.grech-cini@newellco.com

24 nursery today

Meet aire twin, a double duty cruiser designed to help manage two times the tinies.

With this ultra-lightweight twin, you’ll always be twice as ready for the day ahead. One of the lightest weight, fully featured double strollers available the aire twin weighs in at less than 12kg.

With reversible seat liners, individual canopies and reclining seats the aire twin makes it easy for both babies stay cosy - even if they’re on opposite schedules.

compactUltra-

instantinflatFoldsan

Aire twin folds up flat in an instant with just one hand to keep you on the move.

Visit Clemamama at Harrogate Int. Nursery Fair at Stand Ks31 or contact the below for further information. sales@clevamama.com

Leclerc Baby will be present at the Harrogate Nursery Fair, so make sure you will visit them at Stand B-8. www.leclercbaby.com

nursery today 25

Sponsored by brand that parents www.clippasafe.co.uktrust

Meanwhile, the vented easy-view mesh panels for improved airflow also offer peace of mind that baby is kept in sight. www.gracobaby.eu

All new designs include Leclerc Baby’s trusted features, such as the familiar auto-fold system, which allows you to fold and unfold the stroller with the push of one button.

Leclerc Baby presents the new Influencer XL that makes life bigger, and two new fashion collections.

The

According to Asthma.ie, 1 in 5 children will experience asthma at some stage in their lives. Asthma triggers include dust mites, pollen & pet dander, all of which are present in most homes.

These specific ClevaFoam products, which have been scientifically proven to reduce pressure on the back of a baby’s head by 50% and to increase support by 80% and to help reduce Flathead Syndrome (Plagiocephaly), have been further tested and proven in their effectiveness to also considerably reduce exposure to allergens and irritants such as house dust mites, pollen, pet dander and certain unwanted manufacturing chemicals, making them the healthier choice for any nursery.

wthnightSide-by-Side,anddayGraco

The instant one-handed, one-action fold can be activated from either side of the crib - making it quick and easy to pop up and collapse time after time. What’s more, the compact, lie-flat fold makes it easier than ever to manoeuvre around the home, when travelling, and stowing away.

he debut of Leclerc Baby at Kind + Jugend showcased the impressive new collections that will be available this fall/winter season. In addition to an upcoming new colour range for the popular Influencer strollers, the young company introduced the Influencer XL. The higher frame, slightly higher seat and larger wheels allow families to comfortably stroll unpaved paths while still fitting in the hand luggage floraleverybodydesignededitionimpression.collectioncompartmentsoverheadonplanes.Followingthat,theMonnalisamadeanoutstandingThethreespecialstrollerswithmatchingaccessories,madewanttobepartofthislovestory.It’selegantandjoyful,

ClevaMama, the international nursery brand, is committed to helping parents create a healthier, cleaner environment for their babies, as part of this they are excited to announce that a select range of their ClevaFoam products have been certified as asthma & allergy friendly.

Leclerc Baby reveals novelties

UK sales office: 01924 485552 Sales Manager UK & Ireland: Joshua Gillespie 07852902201 & orjosh@mee-go.co.ukPaulRoberts07817030380 & paul@mee-go.co.uk

with Monnalisa’s unmistakable iconic flowers popping off the fabric.

For andinformationmoreorders:

Introducing Graco’s most versatile infant naptime solution that stays by your side from day-to-night. This portable bedside bassinet provides a snug sleep environment and can be used all around the home from bedside to sofa-side, and beyond.

NurseryHappierCleaner,athe–ClevaMamaLeadingwayforHealthier,

new!

Pramland’s John Barker is taking a view on customer spending habits, how this has altered amongst the ‘Cost of Living’ crisis and action that Pramland has taken to assist.

The first thing that has changed is a 20% deposit is no longer acceptable to many people. Trying to get 20% is tough as many of you know. I’ve had more success trying to get Mrs B to stop buying shoes than getting 20% out of a parent to be. So, what’s the option? Well, there’s only one really – reduce this to an amount people are happier with, we’ve dropped to 10%.

Barking Mad

nursery matters JOHN BARKER 26 nursery today john@pramland.co.uk

Image source Pexels.com

Whilst I was sipping a cup of coffee this morning, I thought it would be wise to have a look at some figures. I have been saying to the team for a few weeks now that customers haven’t changed what they are buying, instead they’ve just changed the way they buy it. We, like so many of you offer a lay-away scheme (our industry was built on it after all) and it still accounts for the vast majority of the orders we receive. If we look back over the past couple of years (even taking into account Covid) it was very easy to see a pattern to how our customers shopped with us. Historically we have got used to customers ordering with a 20% deposit and without fail calling at the end of each month thereafter in order

to pay some money on to their account. On an average pram of £1000 you’d be talking £200 upfront and more than likely another £200 each month until baby arrived, when any balance would be cleared. It didn’t take long to build up a steady, and regular payment pattern especially once you start filling your order book with 100 prams or more.

Hi everyone, I hope you are all well. Finally, the kids are heading back to school and the summer holidays are coming to an end. All good news for us retailers that are having to fight for every penny in our customers pockets. Fingers crossed, you, like us have continued to be busy despite the continuing economic downturn.

As a result of this reduction, we have seen an immediate increase in people’s willingness to order. The downside to this is the impact on the till ring. Halving your initial deposit is one thing but what came as little surprise to me was what happened next. A casual flick through my orders revealed that almost every order only had a deposit attached to it. No additional monthly payments. Order after order – deposit

Don’t get me wrong, it’s hardly a major issue. The fact remains that new orders are being placed (albeit with a 50% reduction in the deposit and little or no chance of any additional money being paid until collection). If new orders weren’t being added, we would have something to worry and moan about. Furthermore, these balances will have to be paid eventually. A business like ours (and in turn yours too) is only as good as it’s order book after all. What it does mean is that we must adjust the way we are operating to account for this shift in customers spending habits. I estimated a 12 / 16 week lag period before we can class this as the new norm. At that point balances will be due on orders placed and once that starts it’s a steady stream once again of balances. We’ll soon adjust and fit in to this new 2 hit spending and just as we start to get comfy Mr and Mrs Parents To Be will move the goal posts again noSo,doubt.onthis basis I would say that as

and balance on collection at the VERY END – nothing in between. It’s a startling difference – no longer are we seeing a lovely regular trickle of money hitting the till.

So, what’s the option? Well,there’s only one really – reduce thisto an amount people are happierwith, we’ve dropped to 10%. As aresult of this reduction, we have seen an immediate increase in people’s willingness to order.

we head to the last third of the year things are looking good – if not a little bit inconsistent. Inconsistent is definitely better than bad and that’s a little win in my book.

One trend that is very obvious at the end of the week is the swing away from weekends. Some of you will open 7 days like us, some of you will close a day or two during the week in order to open on a weekend. We all operate in a way that suits us and our business, we however have found that weekends can really stand out – for all the wrong reasons. Historically, we would find that the weekend was the one certainty, the cherry on the cake. In reality the past few months we’ve found weekends to be for window shopping, browsing or to coin a phrase, full of tyre kickers. We are seeing lots of footfall and spending lots of time demonstrating and assisting everyone that visits only for a staggering number of them to leave in order to “think it over” (this is customer code for either – check the price online or we don’t have the money right now). The encouraging thing is that they do return and order, invariably during the week.

The Li ki’s unique small -fold mechanism allows it to simply fo ld and unfo ld at the cl ick of a button, mak ing it the wo rld’s most compact tr ike.

one I’m sure we will never fully understand. Until then I guess we’ll just have to look at the 7 days figures and worry less about individual days.

As a result of this we’ve seen a swing between weekdays and weekends. It’s funny how after 5 very good weekdays trading your week can be spoilt by a less than stellar Saturday or Sunday. Even if after the 7 days you’ve hit what you want to hit. There’s just something about weekends that we seem to think must be the best days of the week. Who knows why we are seeing this shift? Maybe it’s because the kids have been off school and parents are wanting to spend less of their free time shopping? Quick whizz around, pick a pram and get mum to be to order during the week. It’s a mystery, and

Anyway, that’s enough of that. I need to head off and continue organising my calendar for the Harrogate show! I can’t believe it’s next month! Where have the last 12 months gone? Next month I’ll be having a little look at what I’m expecting, hoping for and generally getting excited about spending a few days trawling around the hallowed halls of the Harrogate Exhibition Centre. Until then, stay safe and good luck.

It’s that time of the year – Q4 is Amazon’s cash cow, and every brand should want to be a part of it. The e-Commerce giant breaks its own sales record every year in this brief 3-month window.

this planning takes months to finalise, it’s not too late to action and implement a winning Q4 strategy.

28 nursery today

Whilst Amazon Advertising is pivotal in marketing products, don’t forget the power that brand awareness can create. If you have Brand Registry activated, ensure a robust and customer-centric Brand Store is in place, with advertising campaigns linking back to your Brand Store. A Brand Store can help drive the “halo effect” of your catalogue and encourage customers to buy more products from your range. It’s not too late to include new content; ensure all content is optimised and keyword-friendly. Don’t head into the most

Are you Q4 ready

umours of a second Prime Day hosted in October are looming, and consumers will no doubt see massive price discounts starting from October. Traditionally, October to December is viewed as the 4th quarter, but January has become as busy and profitable for Amazon as December. With many shoppers using those Amazon gift cards to get what they wanted for Christmas; January is quickly becoming a noteworthy month for sales. This is the time to keep Amazon in stock and continue to invest strategically in Amazon Advertising. Sales in January bring plenty of traffic to Amazon, so give your business a great start to the New Year by driving conversion ad glance views.Ifyou’re only starting to think about Q4 now, you’re technically almost too late. Q4 planning should commence as early as January - highlighting the essential products for the year, investing in marketing to give them the boost they need on Amazon and ensuring you have sufficient stock to service Amazon’s demand during Q4. Despite the fact that

It’s easy to assume that consistently low-ranking products will continue in the same fashion over Q4. There are plenty of products that will shift a lot more volume during the Christmas run-up, so your catalogue needs to be cleaned up and optimised. If you’re a Vendor – does Amazon have accurate replenishment codes for your catalogue to enable ordering of the correct available products? If you’re a Seller – have you optimised your entire catalogue with relevant Q4 keywords?

So, how do you get your business ready for this lucrative shopping season on Amazon?

Competition is fierce during the Q4 shopping season. A well-executed advertising strategy can be the difference between success and failure. Amazon’s Advertising is the perfect vehicle to market your products on Amazon. If you’re looking to supercharge your sales in Q4, ensure

you have an Advertising strategy up and running, with optimised campaigns linking to pivotal products for Q4. During the peak months, it’s vital for these campaigns not to be overlooked and managed daily. Look at the Amazon data and ensure you have sufficient daily budgets active on your campaigns. While you try to poach customers from the competition (by bidding on your competitor’s brand names), you also need to safeguard your customer base. This means bidding on your own brand name; it helps to increase audience interaction with your brand.

Etopia’s Managing Director, Asha Bhalsod

e-Commerce ETOPIA

store to restock, so be prepared for a long wait. You don’t want to sit with high product stock levels come January, as storage fees can eat into your margins.

Holiday season sales can run right up to Christmas Eve, with many locales offering same-day deliveries. Make sure your forecast covers this critical time.

lucrative sales period of the year without utilising all of your Brand Registry benefits. Present a cohesive brand presence with well-designed images, well-written copy, a beautiful Brand Store and an optimal landing page for your Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals during Q4.

Q4 causes a lot of hype and excitement around online selling; consumers are looking for bargains and are eager to purchase products from Amazon. It’s not too late to make sure your holiday season goes smoothly - there are still a few things Etopia can provide assistance with. If you have questions about your account, need help with marketing or content, or need a comprehensive Q4 strategy, please contact Etopia.

Running out of stock during the 4th quarter can be a nightmare!

submission on both Vendor and Seller Central is 7 October.

nursery today 29

If you want a more in-depth and tailored action plan, Asha@etopiaconsultancy.comemail:

If you’re looking to capitalise on promotions during Q4, the window for submitting deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday is open! The deadline for deals

Inventory issues lead to decreased sales and momentum during a time of increased shopping traffic. Because Amazon’s FCs are already full, it can be difficult to get new shipments in. It may take a while for the

and style. PIP embeds the latest technology and the Motorola Nursery app allows parents to and ear on their child no matter where they are, missing a moment.

What about innovation, is this a category that continues to look at product development?

Distinctive design

Coffeetoday

never

Obviously with it is now very easy to research using the internet, but word of mouth has always been a lever in consumer brand awareness. Often this crosses generations where mum and grandma all used the same brand. However with many high tech brands being in their infancy they cannot rely on this since they need to ensure they market their products appropriately reflecting their brand and product values.

With hybrid working also has come hybrid families. There is a need for flexibility and portability since baby may be cared for at different locations. Having ease of set-up and continuous use is vital. As many smart monitors use mobile phone apps and functionality, this element is easy to manage as the hardware is simply plug in/plug out.

keep an eye

Are we experiencing any trends within the baby monitor category?

Feature MONITORS 30 nursery

Are parents looking at monitors that have a level of portability?

Are we seeing a rise in monitors that have additional functions - for example links to phone apps, movement sensors, video capabilities..?

Naturally smaller items with high cash value are key for the retailer. Products carrying a high retail price give a retailer the chance to bundle products to make attractive promotions. Training retailers into the benefits of these products is important, although parents will research prior to purchase they still want the added endorsement of the retailer. Stockists can elevate their credibility by offering a curated range that meets the needs of all parents whatever their budget dictates.

Do you feel this is a category that might be driven be price?

Products evolve as the needs of parents and technologies change. The quality of smart monitoring is allowing parents to capture their baby’s development, share with family and also hold onto those precious moments for ever.

Nursery Today caught up with Majuma Ltd’s CEO Marc Hardenberg to find out his views on the monitor sector, innovation, trends and growth of this category.

In the parenting category, the consumer trusts the brands they know. The market has been stable over many years, and those key brands have continued to evolve their products across many categories.

SGW Global, the brand partner of the Motorola brand for Connected Nursery, have announced the release of the latest editions to their PIP range of video and audio baby monitors –the MotorolaPIP1610 HD and PIP1610 HD surfacing,lifestylealsochild’scomplementingnursery,friendlinessPIPapproachabledistinctiveDesignedCONNECT. withaandcharacter,bringsarealsenseofintothechild’sperfectlytheenvironment,butfittingintothefamilywithminimalisthighperformance

www.motorolanursery.com

Monitors continue to move forward when we look at technological advancements over the years, with more consumers taking time to look at additional features, for example, video quality, movement sensors and linking via apps to smartphones.

Is this a product category where dads might be a little more involved in when making the purchasing decision?

With known brands continuing to lead the way, this is most definitely a nursery category to keep ‘an eye’ on. Here we highlight various monitors which are all available and keep up with current consumer trends and appetite for technology.

Is this a category that is well researched prior to purchase?

New market entrants need to be able to offer a quality product, that stretches the imagination of the market. We all love newness. These trailblazing companies play a key part in pushing brands into those next generation products and challenging those often stagnant categories.

What benefits can retailers expect by stocking this type of product?

successMonitoring

A recent study by The Insight Partners illustrates the smart baby monitor market was valued at US$ 989.38 million in 2020 and is projected to reach US$ 1.81 billion by 2028; it is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 8.0% from 2021 to 2028. This growth is predominantly led by the Increasing number of working parents worldwide boosting the growth of the smart baby monitor market globally. The growing number of nuclear families and working parents worldwide is boosting the adoption of smart baby monitoring devices, coupled with the increasing concerns associated with child safety are also encouraging them to purchase smart baby monitoring devices.

How important are brand names in this category?

Over the years we have seen dads involved in certain products within the buying journey and monitors is clearly one of them. We know dads want to know that they have the most technologically advanced product to support their family. On the other hand we know that mums want a product to be caring and sympathetic to their family needs. The right balance is to have an easy to use; technologically forward thinking product.

New technology always create a layer of cost but as savvy parents know, these new products do carry a hefty price tag, especially at the start of the product’s journey. However, if these brands can be seen as a valuable accompaniment in the parenting journey and also be used by the family for a longer period of time, then the price perception is less of an issue.

Break

Absolutely. There is a big shift towards Smart solutions. Parents don’t just want to know their baby is OK by the use of a video camera, but also want to have insights into their sleeping habits and well-being. This brings a greater focus to the parents and give them the tools to manage their baby’s needs better.

Take a look at Maxi-Cosi’s new range of innovative, smart and sensory nursery products, all controlled by one app, including the See Baby Monitor.

Cutting cameraedge

In addition to the Nanit Pro camera, Breathing Wear provides a safe and comfortable option to monitor your baby’s breathing motion without sensors. Nanit accessories make it easy to take Nanit anywhere in the house or on-the-go.

Connected Home is a stylish range of smart sensory nursery products that connect via one easy-to-use MaxiCosi Connected Home app.

Feature MONITORS

www.maxi-cosi.co.uk

32 nursery today

Visit the website to view the entire Connected Home range.

connectedStay

Nanit’s award-winning, cutting-edge camera tracks baby’s movements, delivering parents a crystal-clear picture of almost everything that happens in and around the crib. Our patented technology analyzes baby’s sleep patterns and gives parents personalized tips and expert coaching that improves sleep quality.

Every product in the range has been designed to complement stylish modern home interiors, including See Baby Monitor, Breathe Humidifier, Soothe Light & Sound and Glow Crib Light. Aesthetically, the sleek minimal lines, curved edges and soft, subtle natural colours blend perfectly in a nursery to create a soothing, calming, peaceful environment.

As one the leading smart baby brands that connects parents to their baby’s wellbeing and development, Nanit is pleased to announce that its family of products are now available to the Independent trade exclusively from BabyBase.

Check out the Maxi-Cosi See Baby Monitor which gives parents peace of mind that their baby is always safe and comfortably sleeping in the nursery. Watch live 1080p HD streaming on a paired device and keep a close eye on baby anytime thanks to day and night vision and remote-controlled pan, tilt and zoom. Parents can relax knowing they’ll be notified of movement, sound, temperature or humidity changes, and can programme a selection of soothing noises to come on just when they need them.

www.nanit.commarc@majuma.co

Responding to requests from parents, Nanit recently launched new features including Split Screen and Alert Zone. The Split Screen feature allows Nanit users to view more than one camera on the same screen at the same time.

Simple. Smart. Secure. angelcarebaby.com

Baby Movement Monitors with Video and Sound

www.angelcarebaby.com amcallister@angelcaregroup.com

For secure bedtimes, we keep life simple

Adjusting to a new baby is always a joyous time, but for many getting into a regular sleep time routine can be a little tricky whilst also being a particularly anxious part of the day for parents.

Smart Design

No fuss to set up, easy and intuitive to use

Non-Contact

Tracks Movements

e wireless Movement Sensor pad is placed safely under the mattress, nothing touches baby or disturbs their sleep

No need for wiﬁ or the internet, tracks baby safely and securely

Ensure bedtime is simple, safe & secure Angelcarewith

Constantly monitors baby, alarm only sounds if there have been no movements for 20 seconds

Features:

Simple To Install & Use

nursery today 33

For millions of babies worldwide Angelcare have been supporting parents with our award-winning, tried and tested products for over 20 years. e original movement monitor in Europe, we’re still a ﬁrm favourite with parents and retailers today

For the last 25 years, the Angelcare Baby Movement Video & Sound Monitors have been making the sleep time routine a more simple, safe, and secure environment for both parents and babies. The original baby movement monitor brand, the Angelcare Monitors have the latest technology and features which have been expertly developed and improved over the years. All the Monitors in the collection benefit from the award-winning sensor pad technology which always monitors baby.

ringing a world of infinite imagination, Belgian brand Trixie, famous for its sustainable ethos, quality products and unrivalled support for retail has now arrived on UK shores. The breadth of range adds huge value to store portfolios and stretches across nursery, toys, bathtime, feeding & back to school.

New: the Hush collection

profile

New collections 2023

Flower filled meadow

Trixie Takes Off in the UK!EverythingTRIXIE

The entire Trixie range is divided into 4 inspirational colour schemes. Each colour scheme is composed of collections of different fabrics in complementary colours that stimulate the imagination and create a unique atmosphere.

The Hush collection is a sustainable terry cloth collection with an unsurpassed softness. The subtle lines in the texture of the terry cloth give it a refined touch, and the beautiful colours complement this look. The Hush collection is available in 4 different colours, one per Trixie colour scheme. This is the perfect collection to pamper your little one with, thanks to its exceptional softness.

you need for a warm nest where the imagination of little ones comes to life

Inspiring colour schemes

With a focused approach, dedicated to retail presence, and a familiar face in Sam Tyack, they invite you to join them at Harrogate, Kings Suite, Stand KS11. Take a sneak peek below.

Inspired by the evolution of colour trends and fabrics, Trixie developed 4 new prints; Friendly Vegetables, Babbling Birds, Peppy Penguins and Lovely Leaves. In addition, a new Hush collection, the bliss colour Bliss Coral and two new fabrics; Cocoon and Teddy Almond, have been added to the Trixie range. All are sustainable collections made of 100% organic cotton with an Oekotex certificate. On the road, for meals, bedtime or bathtime, Trixie offers a wide range of babymust-haveproducts that make every moment special.

Wide ocean Wild vegetable garden

Terracotta desert

Cocoon collection

Teddy Almond is soft, fluffy and 100 percent organic cotton. The perfect collection to cuddle with.

Teddy Almond

To find out more, contact Sam • sam.tyack@trixie-baby.com Find them also at the Harrogate Nursery Fair • 16-18th of October - Harrogate Kings Suite, Stand KS11

Pyjama prints

Sustainability is key

The Cocoon collection is a timeless fabric of soft organic cotton in fresh, contemporary colours. It comes in Lemongrass, Blush and Caramel.

This range of soft toys made of organic cotton radiates purity and tranquillity. The collection fits perfectly in any interior because of its soft, warm colours and its knitted texture.

Combine these knitted toys with any colour scheme

Trixie has a deep respect for the planet, our children’s playground, and puts sustainability first. Future generations deserve a place where they can let their imagination run free. Production partners and materials are thoroughly scrutinised, and packaging is kept to a minimum. Trixie develops products that can be used for a long time and withstand many washings.

Pyjama, onesie or body; the Trixie clothing collection is a straightforward range of soft basics with creative prints that celebrate a child’s endless imagination. Discover the exclusive pyjama print; Cuddly Cat. Made of 100 percent organic cotton.

nursery today 35

UPPAbaby offer full valet services on used pushchairs, making them almost good as new for their next little owner, while for products such as car seats, which cannot safely be passed on, Silver Cross and Maxi Cosi are pioneering recycling schemes, so they can continue their lifecycle in a different form.

Buy buywell, once

s with many businesses, at NBS we have concerns about what lies ahead. As we see prices rise everywhere and consumer confidence low, formulating a strategy to ‘ride the wave’ and not only survive but thrive during these turbulent times is a key focus. While the next 12-18 months may look a little uncertain, we at least feel fortunate that within our sector there will always be customers, as people continue to start and grow their families. What is more in question, however, is how the squeeze on their wallets will affect their spending habits and whether customers will continue to buy the well-made premium products we range, or opt for more affordable yet lower quality alternatives. We believe that you should never compromise on quality, especially when it comes to those essential baby items. Buying cheaper not only offers a false economy, with goods prematurely ending in landfill, but it compromises many other things too, including safety, durability, and sustainability.

xxxx

As such our strategy is to stick to our

Why Natural Baby Shower’s premium brands stand the test of time by Victoria Hampson, Co-Founder

Our philosophybrand

And it’s not just our biggest brands that are making a difference. From the outset NBS has championed the smaller start-up companies that produce sustainability and ethically, with the onboarding process for each of our 130+ brands carefully considering the quality, functionality and safety of their product portfolio, as well as the eco-credentials behind the brand.

Connecting with the customer

philosophy which champions the very best for baby, parents, and the planet, sticking with our premium brands and focusing on informing customers of all the benefits that come along with them. Longevity, quality, security. We believe if you buy well, you buy once meaning that whilst the initial spend may be higher, the products are made to last and will easily serve numerous babies and even provide a great resale value when outgrown. We love that marketplaces provide somewhere that a product can undergo a second or even third term, avoiding landfill until absolutely necessary. Finding the balance between sustainability and affordability is also a key conversation, as we all know the cost of producing in a sustainable way is generally higher, but it is a price we should be willing to pay to create the lasting change that is needed and if we all advocate quality over quantity then the abiding cost may actually be less anyway.

The choice when buying for a baby can be quite overwhelming and making informed choices is key to parents. That is why, in partnership with our brands, we deliver an array of supporting information, product demos, and video content to ensure that the customer has all the information they need to make their buying decisions. Our team of 8 marketing specialists works

36 nursery today Retail Matters NATURAL BABY SHOWER

Many of our brand partners are making real changes to support sustainability and the longevity of their ranges; The team at Joolz is constantly innovating towards the greenest ways to produce and operate, endorsing the quality of their products with a lifetime warranty for consumers. Silver Cross and

the website in Q4. Stay tuned for some exciting developments that will champion our no-waste ethos and not only improve our own circular economy but encourage people to shop with the environment in mind while saving money too.

one-way call and receive personalized demos and advice.

Our forecast

savingsswapsSustainableand

Educating our customers on how to shop consciously is also key. We never want to oversell, encouraging them to buy well, buy once as well as suggesting where they can make sustainable swaps. Making the change from disposable to reusable nappies for example has both economic and environmental benefits. In fact, studies suggest that if only 20% of babies in nappies switched to reusables, the amount of waste that could be prevented in Europe alone would be more than 1 million tonnes per year, and the government’s Money Advice Service estimates parents could save more than £1,400 over the course of baby’s first two and a half years! Another way we’re promoting sustainable savings is with our new-for-2022 project that’s coming to

If you would like to contact Victoria Hampson, please pr@naturalbabyshower.co.ukemail:

Instore of course remains a key focus too, and we plan to expand our store presence in the future. We house all our key brands in our Bagshot store, with downstairs dedicated to car seats and pushchairs and upstairs displaying nursery sets, home ranges, clothing, carriers, and more. Being conveniently located just off the M3 at the Surrey/ Berkshire border, it has a wide catchment area with a varied customer base. Parents often travel in from London and as far afield as Southampton, to get hands-on with the products and benefit from our personalized service. Store manager Shermaine explains that “while some customers come in with a product or brand in mind, once we discuss their

lifestyle and needs, we are able to advise on the products that are best suited to them and they often leave with a completely different basket of goods!” She adds “demonstrating the features and benefits of our products means they leave knowing they have been given personalised advice, suited to them”

nursery today 37

Looking ahead, I believe some nursery categories may feel the effects of the pinch, including some of our smaller categories housing the more “nice-tohave” items, such as decorative nursery pieces and possibly gifts in Q4, but while I think industries such as fast fashion will suffer (no bad thing), I believe the quality pieces of clothing in our collections such as our natural sleeping bags, which offer safety and peace of mind, will stand the test.

So, in summary, to ride this wave we are going to keep on doing what we are doing, offering exceptional service and information to the consumer, to ensure they have motivation to buy from us. We will continue to work closely with our brand partners as well as bringing new brands to the family and find new, innovative ways to reach and inform our target customers.

collaboratively with our brand partners, immersing themselves in their ethos to allow them to effectively communicate not only the key features of the product ranges but also the values of the brand itself, highlighting elements such as manufacturing process and company initiatives.Whether it’s through our social media channels or online presence, digital sources are important tools of communication, allowing us to impart far more information than a product description alone can. Digital channels enable us to bring the store experience home, reaching a much wider customer base and allowing us to emulate the level of service that our in-store nursery specialists provide, both in person and more recently via our in-store video call service where customers connect via a

www.eastcoastnursery.co.uk

Available in either white or pink. The room set includes a cot bed, dresser and wardrobe, which can also be purchased separately.

A truly fine nursery thanks to separately),toNaturalavailablemodernparent.collectionaccentsSeamlesslybrandfromstunningcollectionaoffurnitureiconicsleepSnüz. combiningcontemporarywithstunningdesign,theSnüzFinoisperfectforanyinteriorsavvyEffortlesslycreatingasleekandstyleinthenursery,therangeisinavarietyofcoloursincludingWhiteandWhite,SlateandDove.And,thankstheuniquecanopydesign(extensionkitboughtitcreatesthecoolestdenforlittleones

to cosy up in, for a happy night sleep. The new furniture can be purchased as a 3pc Nursery Set consisting of a Cot Bed, Changing Unit and Wardrobe, or if you are limited for space, parents can choose the 2pc set, with just the Cot Bed and Changer.

A matching luxury crib is available in multiple colourways. Supplied with a safety mattress and complete with brake, the crib can be rocked from side to side to help soothe baby to sleep.

www.icklebubba.com

www.bebecar.co.uksales@bebecar.co.uk408801

Tel: 01789 trade@greensheepgroup.com734022

designStunning

Made with superior quality materials for your baby’s comfort and safety. Bébécar UK is part of the East Coast Group.

The Tenby collection boasts a stand-out Scandi style that’s perfect for a modern nursery. With a soft white base that is enriched with rounded corners, this striking two-tone design is bound to make a statement in baby’s first bedroom.

Scandi Style, Deluxe Design

The cot bed has a classic shape, with solid ends and slightly rounded corners; it converts easily to a toddler bed, making the Fontana a great long-lasting room set.

The dresser has an integral changing area and three deep drawers to keep nappy-changing essentials close to hand but out of sight.

The Fontana Room Set features a distinctive washed-wood effect, making it an eye-catching addition to your new nursery. The room set includes a cot bed, dresser and wardrobe at an economic price.

craftedBeautifully

Tel: 01692

Spotlight NURSERY FURNITURE 38 nursery today

The Trama Classic Room Set features beautifully sleek padded accents and delicate embellishments to add an extra feel of luxury to the new nursery.

woodWashed-effect

Tel: 01692 nursery@east-coast.co.uk408802

Get the two-tone look with Ickle Bubba’s Tenby furniture

We shine the light on nursery furniture which are available to order now.

Icklerange.bubba

The wardrobe provides plenty of storage space with a full-width hanging rail and two internal shelves to keep baby’s clothes beautifully organised.

Available in Mono or Scandi White, the range can be scaled up or down depending on the size of baby’s room. Whether parents opt to purchase the standalone Cot Bed or go all out with the 3 Piece Furniture Set, the collection includes a Cot Bed, Under Drawer, Changing Unit/Chest and Wardrobe.

expand their stylish and affordable range of nursery furniture with the launch of its new Tenby collection.

Hadley, Guy, Jessey and Hanh all headed over from Manchester with an array of goodies including a Lullaby Hearts White Wicker Moses Basket, Lullaby Hearts Changing Mat, Cotton Baby Pillow and Fitted Moses Sheets. They even had ‘Store of the month’ balloons made up in their brand colours, blue and pink! The team at Clair de Lune were blown away with how beautiful everything was. From practical and stylish baby products to luxurious home decor, Hey Baby Hey You have everything you need to make a house feel like a home!

‘StoreLune’sdeClairof the month’!

Each month Clair de Lune choose an independent to be ‘Store of the month’ – all they ask is that you support their brand! If you are interested in stocking Clair de Lune, please get in touch with one of their sales team on the below.

Bed mode Day Bed mode

nursery today 39 Spotlight CLAIR DE LUNE 01692 408802 nursery@east-coast.co.uk www.eastcoastnursery.co.ukCotBedDresser

Tel: 0161 491 sales@clair-de-lune.co.uk9800

Clair de Lune visited Mansfield to celebrate the opening of Hey Baby Hey You’s new store in Mansfield.

Wardrobe

www.trixie-baby.comsam.tyack@trixie-baby.com

range of educational toys.

There’s something for every animal lover, from big cuddly bears to giant giraffes and enormous elephants. They come in two sizes to suit any home. They’re an ideal statement piece for the modern nursery, whether you’re searching for your very own Baloo to bring the Jungle Book to life or something to complement your safari style. They’re a great on-trend accessory that baby is sure to love. If space is an issue, opt for one of our adorable wall-mounted animal heads to complete the look.

The perfect toy for newborn teethers and bathtime fun! Trixie’s iconic Animal Characters are brought to life in Natural Rubber to support newborn development. These fun friends provide the perfect entertainment for babies! They highly support the development of all senses. Their fun shape, texture and soft touch give our little ones a lot to discover with both their mouth and hands. The toys are suitable as a teether and a bath toy and are made from 100% natural rubber. Due to the pure and natural material, they are the perfect first toy. Thoughtful design means easy grasping. They have a soothing effect on sore gums and, they’re also the perfect friends for some pretend play in the bathtub for older children!

Tel: 01329

www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk277300

Are you looking for toys suitable for infants and pre-schoolers for your customers? If so, here is a fantastic selection that are available to order now.

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The Fisher-PriceadditionwonderfulWhaleCountLinkimalsFisher-Price1-20&QuizisanewtotheLinkimals

Toyin’ around

Natural Rubber

Two exciting new playsets are now available in Rainbow Designs The Adventures of Paddington preschool toy range, that includes cuddly soft toys and fun-packed playsets.

40 nursery Spotlighttoday TOYS

www.cuddleco.co.uk

Toys from Trixie

The 1-20 Count & Quiz Whale also features a quiz button. When children press it, they can play exciting learning games with Whale! As part of the Linkimals range, the whale can link up with other Linkimals friends. When connected, they light up, talk, sing and play together for even more fun! The Fisher-Price Linkimals 1-20 Count & Quiz Whale is available to buy wholesale at Baby Brands Direct, along with a wide selection of other great educational toys from Fisher-Price.

This cute little whale features 20 numbered buttons for toddlers to press, helping to teach preschool kids how to count. Suitable for children aged 1 year and up, the toy features 120+ fun songs, sounds and phrases that help make learning fun!

CuddleCo offers a range of large plush toys that make the perfect addition to any nursery.

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www.babybrandsdirect.co.uksales@babybrandsdirect.co.uk

Little ones can now take Paddington and his friends on picnic adventures with Bessie the Campervan! The push along Campervan, that features music and sounds, also includes a foldout canopy and Paddington’s suitcase that is brimming with tea and marmalade sandwiches! Little sports fans will also enjoy putting Paddington and Jonathon, through their paces on the football training ground with this great Paddington Football Set, just in time for the Football World Cup later this year!

Baby Essentials

Scion brings its characteristic light-hearted touch to everything from pram organisers, nappy caddies and changing squares. There’s even a little something to save for their futures, with loose change money boxes decorated with their favourite animal characters. Scion’s Animal Magic and Tikku designs make a lively appearance across this range as all

A Loveable Crew

A Premium Gold Storage Bag and a Gold Travel Bag are included with this edition. One for storing the Liki Trike and the other for any essentials parents may need while out and about. sales@cuddleco.co.ukwww.cuddleco.co.uk

Finding fun in the everyday, Scion’s cast of friendly characters shine across this range of everyday baby essentials. Soft, plush finishes to four toys featuring either Elephant, Whale, Mr. Fox or Spike the Hedgehog, mean that your little one will find a cuddly best friend. Don’t worry- even Spike’s spines are made of snuggly material!

The range’s affordability makes them perfect gifts for any gender. www.enesco.co.ukeurosales@enesco.co.uk

nursery today 41 cybex-online.com ER GONOMIC & CO MF OR TA BL E TR AV E LLI NG CLOUD Z i-SIZE UN R129 /0 3, 45 –8 7 cm, ma x. 13 kg (b ir th –a ppr ox 24 month s) wit h ne w IN-C AR RECL IN E FU NCTION

Scion Living Says “Hello, Little One!”

Introducing the Doona Limited Edition Gold S5 Liki Trike – the world’s most compact folding trike. The limited edition model has all the great features of the S5 Liki with an added touch of gold. These glamorous upgrades include a gold splash canopy, faux-leather details and gold aluminium profiles throughout. The modern, fashion-conscious parent will love the limited edition statement gold features.

ComingSoon–TheDoonaLimitedEditionGoldS5LikiTrike

The brand that parents www.clippasafe.co.uktrust new!

Scion is bubbling over with excitement to bring its fun-loving designs to a range of baby essentials with leading contemporary gift retailer, Enesco. Featuring a selection of products from bibs and blankets to toys and bunting, there’s everything you need to surround your little one with love and joy.

products coordinate perfectly with each other.

Nursery Today September 2022

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