Retail Interview - with Alan Wright, category lead for toys & books at John Lewis & Partners

Sellers

with us, even if they don't intend to buy that day.

We've created a really fun concept that just works. It's not like working in a shop - we go to work to have fun. Our Tripadvisor and Google reviews just speak for themselves: we're rated the number one shop in Hebden Bridge - and I don't believe there is another shop like ours in the country.

How would you describe your range?

We have a blend of products that are aimed at families having fun together.

What are your key categories?

Outdoor toys such as Frisbees, stunt scooters, electric scooters, longboards, skateboards and kites; skill toys such as a range of Rubik's-type cubes; juggling, cardistry and magic; flying toys; board games, puzzles and jigsaws; gadgets; remote-control vehicles; STEM toys; and a large range of playing cards, plus some collectables. ■ Kluster ■ Klask ■ Genius Square ■ Cobra Paw ■ Pokémon

Fair, and occasionally the Toymaster show. Plus, we visit toy stores when we’re abroad, and have discovered many gems that way.

What products do you hope I've always been “ will do well for summer? We discovered a flying disc game called Canoff! and met the inventor at Spring Fair. It's two poles, two bases, a sucker for two can mounts, and a flying disc. [For toys and the full Canoff experience you can add a set of official Canoff cans. They are games - the made from a thicker metal to withstand more unusual more impact and live a longer life than a standard can]. We think it will do well. the better. I can't help Are you looking at expanding into new categories? buying cool Previously we didn't cater for things. I own preschool, mainly because it was dominated by the big brands. But more kites recently we have found alternatives that are super high-quality and not than anyone normally found on the high street. For What's your selection criteria? I know! example, we’ve added a preschool range from Bigjigs of sustainable, eco-friendly, long-lasting toys, which are already doing well. ” It's got to be non-mainstream, high-quality and fun for all ages. What’s next for your business?

What’s proving popular at the moment?

Pokémon just flies. Firm favourites among our customers are Klask and Genius Square from The Happy Puzzle Company: I believe we sell more of both than any other independent.

Cobra Paw and Kluster are constantly popular. Skateboards are making a resurgence, and STEM toys are popular presents. We've got some boring stuff to do such as better inventory management across our three stores, consolidating around a smaller set of suppliers, and dropping some products to make way for new discoveries.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Having fun with customers. It's great seeing customers laugh and leave with smiles on their faces.

What are your top five best sellers?

Kluster (in the three days before Christmas we sold 280 copies!), Klask, Genius Square, Cobra Paw, and Pokémon. And what’s the most challenging?

Sourcing. We have to order and replenish stock at a pace, so keeping up is difficult at times - as well as finding new things to keep customers interested.

How many suppliers do you deal with?

About 20. Key names are Asmodee, Big Potato Games, Recent Toys, Paul Lamond, Winning Moves, Gen42, Smart Games, Marvin's Magic, JWS (for juggling), CML Distribution (for remotecontrol vehicles), and Stateside Skates and TKC (for skateboards).

How do you find products? What lines have you started stocking recently?

We have sourced Plakks from Spain and are the first in the UK to stock it.

How is trading generally for you?

2021 was our best trading year ever, despite forced Covid-related retail closure. Trade was great in the last quarter. Q1 is normally our quietest period, but we spent time preparing for the rest of the year. Sales have been consistent ever since. What's your favourite toy or game?

Lisa would say Klask, but for me it’s the 27 kites that I own!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We're proud of what we've achieved over the past five years and, despite retail challenges, we've created a unique experience - and we don't intend to rest on our laurels.