Progressive Preschool January/February 2022 by Max Publishing: Print, Digital Media + Events (London)

The For Preschool Products and Retailers TheB2B B2BPublication Publication For Preschool Products and Retailers ISSUE 55 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

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2022

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Speak to your Area Sales Manager or contact

www.Enesco.co.uk

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Arora Design Limited 4G85

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Pintail Candle

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Burstenhaus Redecker GmbH

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Retreat Home Ltd

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Pom Pom Galore

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Heyland & Whittle Ltd

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Weekend365

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Yarto London

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The Candle Brand

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DeVancer Ltd T/A iBeani6

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The Sugar Shed 6

The Company

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Amica Accessories

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Sock Academy

Ampersand Fragrances

The Wheat Bag Company

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Calipso (Roast) Ltd / PR Roast & Co Ltd

Zee Productions

Spotty Willow

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Artcuts

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Beefayre

Transomnia Ltd

17.5

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Ivy & Twine Candles

Lasgo Music

ChalkUK

Aromaglow

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Global 1st

DZine Ltd 6

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Crystal World

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Seedball

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Bubblegum Stuff Ltd 12

Christmas Perks LTD

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Robert Frederick

LOLA+BLAKE

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Felt So Good

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Manwellness Limited

3.5

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Lasgo Consumer Electronics

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Navigate Ltd

Mosney Mill

Professor Puzzle Ltd

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Black Ginger Ltd

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Recent Toys

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Mclaggan Smith Mugs Ltd

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Star Images Enterprises Ltd

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Shared Earth UK Ltd

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Caliq Software Limited

Traditional Craft Ltd

Verma Enterprises Ltd

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Jardinopia Ltd

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Marissa's Gifts

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Fiesta Studios Ltd

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Wild Things Gifts

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Scentiment Gifts

4B27

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Waspinator Ltd

Vivid Squid Wholesale Ltd

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Stands Out

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Sarome 39.25 UK

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The Milford Collection

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Wildlife World

UK Customer Services Telephone: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services Telephone: +44 (0)1228 404066 Email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk 4B01

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Global Journey

Allied Imports Ltd

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PreschoolNews Advert 165 x 245_Layout 1 04/01/2018 16:20 Page 1

LEADER

JANUARY 2022

@Prog_Preschool

PreschoolNews Advert 165 x 245_Layout 1 04/01/2018 16:20 Page 1

@Prog_Preschool

PreschoolNews.net is the new online resource for the preschool product and retail sector. From the publishers of Progressive Preschool Magazine and the organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this Above: The Progressive Preschool team (L-R) Katie Roberts-Mason, Jo Pilcher, Rob Willis and Samantha Loveday. new website and e-newsflash portal will (in fabrics, manufacturing ew years provide the are very latest news, views, and options and in freight, transportation and logistic traditionally a time analysis the apreschool product methods) are all front of mind this year. for aacross fresh start… On top of this, the growth in time ofsector. resolutions, and retail

THIS MONTH

curated and concession retail is a good promises to do better, be better and make changes to things which opportunity for brand partnerships that haveemail a similar customer base, while aren’t working. Launching with an unrivalled there is also excitement surrounding Unfortunately, there are still a number subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a R Us and Babies R the return of Toys of things which are most definitely out Us to land the UK market and Mothercare’s of thetwice immediate control ofnewsflash the nursery weekly will and preschool toy industries… from Covid continued work with Boots. directly in the inboxes of everyone Adaptability and innovation to shipping and EU import issues, many remains key, whether you are a retailer companies havefast-paced started 2022 in the in this industry. or supplier. same vein in which they ended 2021 – A modern, easy to navigate Some of that innovation will doing the best they can and making the be on display at London Toy Fair, most website of all opportunities. will provide a central Spielwarenmesse, Spring Fair and New And, make no mistake, there are resource for the trade too, offering York Toy Fair as the spring trade show opportunities out there. Speaking to a season once again returns. While there selection of suppliers for PPS’ first issue an news, in-depth articles, industry will be noticeable changes at all of the of the year, the speed in the growth of jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of shows due to the Covid measures in technology, and how it can be utilised place – and in much Spielwarenmesse to improve products, ecommerce, plus and Progressive Preschool, much more.and NY Toy Fair’s case, any local restrictions continued innovation in sustainability

The magazine and awards do a great job in joining the dots between toy, nursery, gift, apparel, publishing, and of course licensing and this digital offering will further enhance our position as a trade media partner that offers a tangible response to advertising investment.

ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL: 03_Leader.indd 1

Max Publishing Ltd, United House, PreschoRoad, olNews.net isLondon the new online N7 9DP North resource for the preschool product and retail sector. From the publishers of Progressive T: 020 7700 6740 F: 020 7607 6411 Preschool Magazine and the organisers of the Progressive Preschool Awards, this www.max-publishing.co.uk new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product

Copyright 2022. Whilst every effort has been made and retail sector. to ensure the information in this magazine was Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber a correct atbase theof 12,087 timereaders, of going to press, the publishers twice weekly newsflash will land cannot legal liability for any errors or directlyaccept in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry. omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for A modern, easy to navigate will provide central the website standing of aadvertisers nor any organisation resource for the trade too, offering mentioned inarticles, theantext. news, in-depth industryViews of contributors do not jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of necessarily reflect those of the publishers. Progressive Preschool, and much much more. All advertising on the website is

ISSN 2515-8570

duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers. PreschoolNews.net is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

in Germany and the US – there is a palpable sense of excitement about this edging back to normality. While Zoom and Teams have been virtual lifesavers, Preschoolnews.net is published by preschool sector experts… there is no substitute for seeing and testing product in real life. For Progressive Preschool meanwhile, 2022 marks the tenth anniversary of the Progressive Preschool Awards, and we’re celebrating the occasion with a move to a new venue which will enable the team to further build on its success. Category entry will go live in April, so stay tuned for more details. In the interim, we’re looking forward to catching up with as many of you as possible at the upcoming shows and witnessing some of that innovation for ourselves. ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL:

EDITORIAL AND CONTENT:

Jo Pilcher jop@max-publishing.co.uk

Jacqui Parr jacquip@max-publishing.co.uk

Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk

Sam Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk

The Progressive Preschool Team

Loveday, Rob AllSamantha advertising onWillis, the website is Jo Pilcher and Katie Roberts-Mason. duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers.

PreschoolNews.net is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

EDITORIAL AND CONTENT: 11/01/2022 14:37

We are back open for business!

OLYMPIA LONDON 25-27 JANUARY 2022 Pre-register for your FREE visitor badge at toyfair.co.uk •More than 250 exhibiting companies including the biggest brands through to smaller and innovative start-ups •Thousands of brand new products including tech toys, plush, board games, construction toys plus many more •Exclusive on-site retail offers •Network with the whole industry

under one roof, building relationships with new and existing suppliers

•Discover the hottest new toys and trends

Featuring LEGO, Golden Bear, Character Options, Winning Moves, Ty UK, Plum Play and many more...

@ToyFairUK For further information on exhibiting & sponsorship opportunities please contact +44 (0)20 7701 7127 or email rebecca@btha.co.uk * Unfortunately members of the public are unable to attend

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29/10/2021 16:50 06/01/2022 12:51

CONTENTS

News

he latest updates from across T the preschool industry

Progressive Preschool Awards 2021: The winners

WHAT'S INSIDE

Profile 89 Executive Phil Cassidy, md at Casdon, in

accolades 95 48 Indie 13 GfK PPS speaks to Odd Socks, Small The categories which are seeing

the hotseat.

Insights 15 Parents How purchase behaviours are

being influenced by products which are more socially conscious.

Sector Focus: Travel Systems

Event Focus: Toy Fair 2022

Columnist 19 Guest Yogi Parmar, md of Toymaster, 70 on how indies have weathered

the storm of the pandemic and what’s in store for 2022.

22 Four senior execs from the

Retailer in Numbers

Stuff UK, Bumpstart Baby Shop and Kids Stuff Wells.

increased spend and growth as the New Year begins.

Industry Roundtable

75 82

Event Focus: Spielwarenmesse 2022

Event Focus: Spring Fair

nursery and toy sectors discuss how 2021 was for their businesses and what’s on the cards for 2022.

The Big Interview: Ideas International

Event Focus: INDX Kidswear

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net order B2B at littleconcepts.co.uk

Spring Fair 5L34 | Spielwarenmesse Hall 3 D30

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littleCONCEPTS - proud partners of:

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11/01/2022 14:32

NEWS TOP STORY

PPS Awards levels up for tenth anniversary

Lancaster London, a prestigious much larger drinks reception space he Progressive London hotel venue which has and additional luncheon tables in Preschool Awards recently undergone an extensive £80 the ballroom. - PPS Awards as it million renovation and enhancement Commenting on the move, Rob is affectionately programme. The new venue will Willis, director and co-owner of Max known - will celebrate its allow the PPS Awards to offer a Publishing which owns and organises tenth anniversary in 2022. The The PPS Awards, said: “It’s much-loved event is tremendously exciting to a significant date in It’s tremendously exciting to have reached our tenth the diary for the toy, have reached our tenth year as the year as the organiser of the nursery, apparel and licensing sectors, organiser of the industry’s awards, industry’s awards, having lasted the test of time the with the awards now having lasted the test of time the event is now the focal point setting a benchmark standard that retailers event is now the focal point of trade of trade awards in the sector. “We have worked with know and trust. awards in the sector. Royal Lancaster London As part of its ten year for a very long time and anniversary, the event Rob Willis already use the venue for will move to an increased director Max Publishing other events and it is always function space at the Royal

“Preschool is always an important sector for Toy Fair” The first big opportunity for the toy trade to get together in 2022 is now just around the corner, with Toy Fair returning to London’s Olympia this month (25-27 January).

Above: More than 260 exhibitors will be at this year’s Toy Fair, says Majen.

Majen Immink, director of fairs and special events at the BTHA, has told PPS that the team is “so excited” to

be returning with an in-person show and that preschool toys will be a key part of the show floor. “We’re set to be as big as ever, with more than 260 exhibitors including some of the biggest brands in the business including preschool favourites Playmobil UK and VTech/ LeapFrog,” she commented. “It will be the first big opportunity of the year for visitors to get hands-on with the hottest toys and games for 2022 and see all the exciting new trends.” There will be a few changes, of course, making sure that all the necessary measures are taken to protect the health and safety of exhibitors and visitors. These will include enhanced cleaning operations, an improved ventilation system, multiple hand sanitisation points, use of a second point of entry/ exit via the National Hall foyer and mandatory Covid status checks.

“Preschool is always an important sector for Toy Fair,” continued Majen. “From the very beginning, preschool toys have had a prominent place at Toy Fair, with everyone’s favourite bear Sooty featuring at the very first show. Learning through play is vital in a child’s development, so it’s no surprise that the sector is always innovating, creating new ways to teach and delight young children. Every year at Toy Fair, we see something new and exciting from our preschool exhibitors, and I’m sure 2022 will be no different. Without giving anything away, there are some great preschool products in this year’s list of winners of Toy Fair’s Hero Toys.” For full details on the show – and to register – head to www.toyfair. co.uk. You can also keep up to date on Twitter @ToyFairUK.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net

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KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST STORIES

i-Spin Grow debuts

Above: PPSA22 will move to the Royal Lancaster London for its tenth anniversary.

an amazingly palatial experience for guests. As the event has sold out every year for the majority of the last decade, we look forward to being able to say ‘yes’ to everyone at what is, in my humble opinion, one of the best networking days in the year.”

The PPS Awards will take place on Thursday 15 November 2022. Category entry will go live in April 2022, keep an eye on www. ppsawards.co.uk for updates and sign-up for alerts www. preschoolnews.net.

Casdon welcomes Joseph Joseph Casdon has kicked off 2022 in high spirits, adding a new licence to its portfolio as well as unveiling new products across its roster. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of its exclusive licensed partnership, the company will be revealing three new Dyson skus to its best selling range of vacuum cleaner toys at Toy Fair. In addition, Casdon has welcomed housewares brand Joseph Joseph – it will be launching six products in the range including the Joseph Joseph

Extend which it says takes water play to a ‘whole new level’. The product comes with a wash bowl and tray to capture small spills while water can be pumped from the bowl through the dispenser and back again for endless play. Also in the new range is the Joseph Joseph Bake, a set of four interlocking measuring cups, a large mixing bowl, twist whisk, egg spatula and ergonomic rolling pin. Following a period of growth, Casdon will also be showcasing the brand’s new look with a refreshed colour palette, brand logo and company tagline which aims to reflect its ethos for children’s toys to capture the ‘fun and excitement’ while exploring new ways to live playfully.

Joie’s new safety seat spans from birth to booster and encompasses a range of features including i-size and 360° spin. The new i-Spin Grow will cover every trip from the first journey home from hospital to the first day at school, as well as every important milestone in between and beyond. The easy to use, onehand 360° spin will make buckling in for the trips easier than ever. An extended rearward harness and belted booster mode ensure children are safe, while the TriProtect headrest offers layer upon layer of protection including state of the art memory foam. Six recline positions also ensure comfort in both rear and forward facing modes, while the isofix and top tether install make is simple to install. And once it’s in, there’s no need to reinstall. Just before the launch of i-Spin Grow, the seat was awarded with a Gold at the 2022 Mother & Baby Awards. Below: i-Spin Grow picked up Gold at the 2022 Mother & Baby Awards.

Left: Casdon has expanded its Dyson role-play range with a number of new products.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net

07 PPS News.indd 2

11/01/2022 14:38

Where big imaginations come out to play. Tap into the hottest toys, gadgets and games at Kids, Toy & Play, exclusively at Spring Fair. Register to visit: springfair.com/visitor-registration Trade show of the century

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NEWS

KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST STORIES

TOP STORY

“Adaptability is key to retail in 2022”

ey preschool execs have outlined how they expect the retail landscape to change over the coming year to become stronger and more resilient. Having altered their businesses to overcome the challenges set out by the pandemic, most retailers are now well-versed in modifying plans to continue trading. Nix Jain, head of marketing at Green Sheep Group, says this mindset will remain key going forward: “Adaptability is key to retail. With my brand hat on, retail is about providing an unforgettable in-store experience for the consumer; one that integrates product play with digital technology and mobile browsing seems to be the way things are going.”

Above: With some big names re-entering the High Street in 2022, preschool retail is likely to see some changes over the coming months.

Luke Burns, general manager, Cybex UK & Ireland, applauded the industry’s adaptability thus far: “If the past two years has shown us anything, it’s that we can all adapt to changes more agilely than we ever imagined.” He also sees e-commerce as remaining strong even out of lockdowns: “While new parents like to experience our products

in showrooms before they buy, I think we will also see a continued upward trend of online purchases.” Ceo and founder of Ickle Bubba, Fran Vaughan, however, is hopeful for a resurgence in the high street. He said: “Some big names are entering back into the game, with Mothercare via Boots and Toys R Us also making a comeback. After a tough few years, 2022 could be a year where both old and new national retailers start to ramp up their efforts to become a destination for new parents.” Whether online or physical stores, supporting retailers with strong customer service remains a priority for suppliers, as Nix explained: “One trend I do see is the emergence of lots of new dropship ecommerce businesses who want to be the next Amazon for baby – whilst this offers yet another shopping channel for the consumer, I think for the credibility, authority and survival of our industry, its key as brands that we support retailers that offer much more than just a transaction.”

The Puppet Company partners with WWF-UK In a new contract with WWFUK, The Puppet Company will supply Blue Angel certified toys to be sent to supporters which take out an animal adoption with the charity. It means that the family business has also become the only UK toy company - and one of only two toy companies in Europe - to be accredited with eco label Blue Angel. The German eco label has been leading the way for environmentally friendly product design for 40 years, helping customers to select eco-friendly products by certifying that the environmental impacts usually associated with soft toy products have been minimised. Owner and co-founder Sue Lockey, commented: “We

are delighted to be working with WWFUK and are committed to supporting them as they continue their mission through the supply of our bespoke soft toys, used as optional extras in the animal adoption process to help raise vital funds to support WWF’s work. “As the only UK toy company with Blue Angel certification, we are continuing to develop sustainable products and are really excited to introduce new ranges of Eco Puppets and soft toys made from recycled plastic over the coming months as we build on our commitment to supporting the environment.” Above: The Puppet Company is “delighted” to be working with WWF-UK, says owner Sue Lockey.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net

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NEWS

KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST STORIES

TOP STORY

Magformers expands its preschool business

agformers UK is launching new sets of Stick-O, its award winning preschool magnetic construction toy as it expands its educational business. Stick-O’s Preschool Deluxe 96-piece set and Preschool 56-piece set both come in branded, stackable, storage boxes and feature 18 of the most popular and easy-to-use chunky magnetic sticks, balls, shapes and other accessories. The bulkier sets have been specifically curated to offer nurseries, preschools, childminders and children’s centres a simple ‘tip out and play’ option for groups of young children aged from 18 months. Alongside the product launch, Magformers UK is also recruiting

sales agents to develop its growing educational business, where large Magformers classroom sets are used for STEM learning and are already proving popular in primary schools among KS1 and KS2 pupils. “Having built a strong retailer base for Magformers and Stick-O, we were being asked more and more for larger sets by schools, nurseries and other educational centres,” commented David Kelly, UK md of Magformers. “As we are a subsidiary business of the Magformers global HQ in South Korea, we have been able to specify some exclusive educationally-focused sets for the UK market for both Magformers and Stick-O. “Magformers classroom sets have been gaining significant traction in the education market and we felt 2022 was the right

ToyTopic ready for Toy Fair

Ambitious ToyTopic is planning a number of new launches in the preschool space at Toy Fair (2527 January). The company’s strategic partnership with WowWee is continuing to flourish, expanding product ranges and introducing new brands for 2022. Meeting the

Above: The new sets are aimed at children aged from 18 months.

time to expand Stick-O into that sector with some larger, simple-touse sets.” David continued: “The two new colourful sets are jam-packed with lots of magnetic Stick-O sticks, balls and other shapes, as well as a few simple and safe clip-on accessories. They enable younger children to have fun making cute creatures, characters, animals, rattles and a whole host of other models – or they are perfect for creative free play.”

Below: A range of products for the Pinkfong Baby Shark brand is included in ToyTopic’s portfolio.

increasing demand for the popular Pinkfong Baby Shark brand, ToyTopic’s portfolio of plush, preschool, learning and bath toys includes the new Baby Shark’s Big Show Mix & Match Bath Swimmer, launching in the spring. In addition, ToyTopic will be launching a new PAW Patrol toy range, while it will also be expanding its relationship with Hasbro, with new licensed toys based on a selection of the company’s preschool licences including Peppa Pig.

Further high profile announcements are also due to be revealed at Toy Fair, where ToyTopic can be found on stand G94.

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net

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UNFORGETTABLE

UNRIVALLED

UNMISSABLE

NOW

6-7 APRIL 2022 Discover the latest products and ranges, including licenced products, preschool toys and children’s gifts. We look forward to welcoming you to the INDX TOYS & NURSERY Show.

For exhibitor enquiries visit www.indxshows.co.uk or email info@indxshows.co.uk Cranmore Park Conference and Event Centre, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4LF

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RESEARCH

GfK’s client solutions consultant, Emma Wade takes a look at the categories seeing increased spend and growth as the New Year begins.

BABY CARE: EXPENSIVE TASTE AND SMART TECH

he baby care market matched the wider UK economy in continuing to recover through 2021. Total sales value rose 12% over January to October 2021 compared to the same period in 2020, with volume sales also up 4%. At the same time, value over the year-to-date remained 17% down on the 2019 figures prior to the impact of the pandemic and various lockdowns, showing how there remains a long way to go to a full recovery. Despite the total baby care market still being in recovery, we are starting to see a number of categories outperforming their year-to-date value from 2019. The category Highchairs has seen the most extreme growth, with a value uplift of 20%, a growth that we have discussed in previous issues. The next highest performing categories are Monitors and Bottle Warmers & Sterilizers which have both seen a 7% value growth over the year-todate. And finally, smaller wins for the Teethers market which saw a 5% value growth and Breast Feeding which saw a 3% value growth.

All of these categories have also seen average expenditure increase, with consumers moving towards premium brands and spending 23% more than they were in 2019. As we moved towards the end of the year, we saw consumers slowly return to the high street, but online spending was still the favoured option with 54% of the value year-to-date going through online sales. This is still higher than the same period in 2019 which saw only 40% of value going through online purchases. SMART MOVES Baby Monitors is a category where value has been gradually growing for the last three years. The biggest shift has been in Smart Monitors (monitors that can be used in conjunction with other smart appliances or through an app) which has seen the fastest growing value share, currently holding year-to-date 32% of the Monitors market, compared to 23% in 2020 and 14% in 2019. With more people moving towards smart household tech, smart baby monitors have become increasing popular. The category value has increased

Total Baby Care continues to grow strongly against 2020, but remains behind 2019 levels Great Britain – Baby Care

+12% Baby Care* value growth over January–October 2021 vs. the same period in 2020.

Value growth %: YTD 2021 vs. 2019** -17%

Total Baby Care 20%

Monitors

Bottle Warm/Steri Teethers

5% The gradual re-opening of the UK

total baby care sales grow strongly on 2020. At the same time, the

Breast Feeding

economy and a summer out of lockdown has helped in-store and

Highchairs

Smart Monitors: Share of category value

Strollers – Travel Systems 3 in 1: Average Selling Price

market remains far behind 2019, pre-Covid levels:

-17% value growth over January–October 2021 vs. same period in 2019.

£549

32% 23% 14% YTD 2019 YTD 2020 YTD 2021

£370

£311

YTD 2019 YTD 2020 YTD 2021

GfK GB PoS Data. All figures in value GBP. **Year-to-date (YTD) figures based on January – October. *Baby Care tracked categories: Car Seats, Highchairs, Stollers, Bottles & Teats, Soothers, Teethers, Baby Tableware, Bottle Warmers & Sterilisers and Breast Feeding.

GfK ©©GfK

45% on 2020, with the average spend being around £138. However, with this increase in Smart Monitors we are seeing losses elsewhere, Video Monitors seeing the biggest impact, with a recorded 17% loss in value. More affordable categories like Analogue and Digital Audio Monitors are continuing to hold steady, but have a smaller value share in the market. Briefly focusing on some other categories where consumers are increasing their average expenditure, a category which we have not yet mentioned is Strollers. Over the last year consumers spent 22% more on a Stroller year-to-date than they were in 2020, with the average expenditure now being £287. In particular, we have seen the biggest movement in Travel Systems 3 in 1 (this is a stroller which is suitable for 1st and 2nd age as the baby can either lie flat or be put upright, and comes with two additional attachments), with the average spend year-to-date in 2020 £311 compared to £549 in 2021, a 77% growth. Over the year, models with the price point >£800 have seen the biggest rise as consumers move towards premium brands. However, with rising prices and headline inflation growth, the volume of these top end purchases may start to fall as we move into 2022. With new restrictions being announced as well as continuing price and tax hikes along with stock issues, there are many challenges facing consumers, this may trigger consumers to revert to lockdown buying behaviours. Topline baby care will continue its recovery on 2020, but a return to pre-Covid spending levels looks set to take a little longer.

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RESEARCH Left: Nick Richardson, ceo and founder, The Insights Family.

ANOTHER ‘P’ IN THE MARKETING MIX: PURPOSE The Insights Family highlights how its data has shown a move away from purchase behaviours being influenced by friends, family or blogs, and towards products that are socially conscious.

he Insights Family recently launched its comprehensive Future Forecast 2022 report, lighting up ten trends and 15 predictions to watch out for this year. One of them is the importance for family targeted businesses to be ethical in their business practices to gain trust from consumers. Our Global Parents data shows that on average since Q1 2021, there has been a movement away from purchase behaviours being influenced by friends, family or blogs and having the latest product, or must-have designs have become less influential. What we have seen in contrast is movement towards products that are socially conscious, making a customer feel part of a community or be a product that offers safety credentials. The consumer demand to have meaningful relationships with brands is more important today than ever before. Transparency and trust in a business, product or brand is key to securing and building brand loyalty.

When considering reasons to buy into a brand or product, trust comes in as the fourth highest ranking reason across all 18 markets and across all parental age ranges (76%). When looking at the importance of this by generations we can see Baby Boomers hold this in higher regard than younger parents, implicating the importance of building trust with your audience from a young age to increase the probability of building avid fandom into older age. We are also seeing eco-friendly credentials and social responsibility fuel purchase decision across all regions and parental ages. The importance of trusting brands on a number of measures is increasing globally. With more kids and parents alike able to track and monitor brands on more channels than ever before, we have audiences who are increasingly able to navigate the landscape and cut through the noise. Adidas’ partnership with Parley for the Oceans is a shining example of this. The initiative involves collecting plastic waste from oceans

and recycling polyester to use in sportswear manufacturing. In India, the market where parents are most likely to rate eco-friendly credentials as important when considering brand purchases (80%) we see the importance actioning purpose-led initiatives has on targeted audiences. Baby Boomers in India who rate eco-credentials as extremely important (35%) are +37% more likely to favour Adidas as a family brand. The key to looking forwards is to actually ‘walk the walk’ by consistently implementing and improving corporate responsibility strategies. Brands that deliver on their promises in a transparent way will rise to the top, but the values a brand or product lives by must be core to the brand’s DNA to gain trust. WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU… Are we moving into an age of marketing that explicitly goes beyond the original pillars of the marketing mix? We’ve had product, price, placement and promotion - but The Insights Family believes that purpose now has a firmly valid reason to stand among the others. Perhaps even more so importantly than the others purpose is the guiding principle behind all others, directly deriving them. Living and breathing your values as an organisation is now crucial to building relationships with customers that reach into the future, and moreover this generation of new audiences are skilled at spotting genuine value-based and purpose-led organisations. The Insights Family’s latest Future Forecast 2022 report discovered trends as such: Managing Kidpreneurs, Esports - The Next Family Sport?, Appropriating the Cultural Conversation, Another ‘P’ in the Marketing Mix: Purpose, Generation Now: Expect Anything, Anytime, Anywhere, Rebooting education, 3D Printing: Ultimate Personalisation, (Virtual) Reality Bites, Will the Flexible Future be Beneficial to Families and A School for the Family. To download the full complementary Future Forecast 2022 report, please visit: get. theinsightsfamily.com/futureforecast.

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GUEST COLUMNIST

Yogi Parmar, managing director of Toymaster, on how indies have weathered the storm of the pandemic and what’s in store for 2022. Right: Yogi Parmar, managing director, Toymaster.

A POSITIVE OUTLOOK

oymaster members have once again adapted and been very resilient over 2021 – it started off with another lockdown, which closed the majority of our stores until April or May, however most members found a way to keep trading with online, click and collect and delivering locally, to once again connect with consumers. Once retail re-opened, we found that customers were keen to visit shops again and sales picked up to strong levels as our members had made the ‘shop local’ message their own. We are extremely proud of the hard work our members put in over the past two years to keep their businesses trading. Toymaster was on hand to support our members during the lockdown and re-opening period – we remained operational and kept in close contact with members and suppliers. The big thing our members missed out on

was seeing new products, due to the lack of trade shows. However, Toymaster helped with collating all this information and making it available on the ‘Product Hub’ on our internal website, so all the info needed was in one location to access and place orders. We definitely saw evidence that customers took the advice to ‘shop early’ last year, due to the stock availability issues highlighted in the news. They are continuing to shop locally, having discovered over the past 18 months that there is a whole variety of great independent shops, including toy shops, in their town. Consumers have realised that the customer service they receive from Toymaster members and other independents in their Below: The Harrogate Show will return from 17-19 May, 2022.

town is a much better experience and they want to continue supporting local businesses. As such, we see a positive outlook for independents. There is clearly support from consumers to back independent shops, however we need more help from local councils to help revive high streets to make them more attractive to retail and leisure services and increase footfall. Toymaster has a great relationship with and support from our suppliers, and we continue to work closely with them to ensure our members are getting good supply and promotional activity to allow them to compete and continue to flourish. Yes there will be challenges ahead, but we start the year feeling positive on the back of a strong 2021. SHOW TIME We are really excited to be bringing the May Show back to Harrogate in 2022, and looking forward to catching up with our members and suppliers. We expect a great and varied selection of suppliers will be showcasing their new products. The show itself will follow a similar format, with three days for meetings and two evenings of great entertainment. However, we are also looking at a few changes we can make to improve the experience for all. The Toymaster May Show is the biggest trade fair for independent toy retailers in the UK and Ireland. We will again be inviting non-member independents to experience the event, and we would welcome the opportunity to speak to them about the benefits of becoming a Toymaster member. The dates are 17-19 May, so please put the date in your diary and we look forward to seeing you there.

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© 2019 Rovio Entertainment Corporation and Rovio Animation Ltd. Rovio, All Angry Birds logos and characters are trademarks of Rovio Entertainment Corporation and Rovio Animation Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Avengers © 2019 Marvel. Baby Shark © Smart Study Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Pinkfong® Baby Shark™ is a licensed trademark of Smart Study Co., Ltd. Captain Marvel © 2019 Marvel. Dumbo © 2019 Disney Enterprises, Inc. Fingerlings® and all product names, designations and logos are trademarks of WowWee Group Limited. Copyright 2016-2019 WowWee Group Limited. All rights reserved. LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob conﬁgurations and the Miniﬁgure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2019 The LEGO Group. The Lion King © 2019 Disney Enterprises, Inc. © MGA Entertainment, Inc. L.O.L. SURPRISE! TM is a trademark of MGA in the U.S. and other Countries. All logos, names, characters, likenesses, images, slogans and packaging appearance are the property of MGA. Mary Poppins Returns © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. Match Attax © TOPPS Europe Limited, 2019. All rights reserved. © 2019 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. NICKELODEON, NELLA THE PRINCESS KNIGHT are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. © 2019 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. PAW Patrol and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Spin Master Ltd. Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Shimmer and Shine © 2019 All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, trademark of Viacom International Inc. Spies in Disguise™ and © 2019 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved. Property of Fox. Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse © 2018 Marvel © 2018 SPA & CPII. © 2019 Super Wings™ All Rights Reserved. The Nutcracker And The Four Realms © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Secret Life of Pets is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All rights reserved. DreamWorks Trolls © 2018 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2019 Ugly Industries Holdings, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Wonder Park TM & © 2019 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

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Publishing for a new generation

Centum Books 20 Devon Square, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 2HR, UK. Ofﬁce: +44 (0)1626 337736 • Fax: +44 (0)1626 334580 • Books@centumbooksltd.co.uk

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INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLE

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION PPS invites four senior executives from the nursery and toy sectors - Luke Burns, general manager, Cybex UK and Ireland; Nix Jain, head of marketing, Green Sheep Group; Fran Vaughan, ceo and founder, Ickle Bubba; and Phil Hooper, senior commercial director, marketing, Spin Master – to discuss how 2021 was for their businesses, new product launches, challenges for the New Year and what they are most looking forward to in 2022.

Luke Burns

Nix Jain

HOW WAS 2021 FOR YOUR BUSINESS? ARE YOU HEADING INTO 2022 IN GOOD SHAPE? Luke: “Despite the ongoing pandemic 2021 was a strong year for us, sales have continued and we have done our utmost to support our retailers with ongoing online training as well as our face-to-face training when possible. The year saw some exciting new launches for us - the Pallas G, this 2-in-1 car seat grows with the child and utilises our new and improved shield technology. It’s a great investment as it is suitable from 15 months to approximately 12 years. And we finished the year on a high with the launch of our Anoris T, this car seat is setting new industry standards in terms of safety. Thanks to its integrated airbag technology, the forward-facing seat offers approximately 50% more protection than conventional forward-facing seats, and is at least as safe as rear-facing car seats. I’m looking forward to what this will mean for the entire industry in the year ahead.”

Fran Vaughn

Phil Hooper

something we all wanted, but physical retail footfall has struggled to get back up to pre-Covid levels. 2022 is exciting. We’ve made a significant investment in people, products and places and look forward to seeing this unfold over the next 12 months.” Phil: “We believe we are well positioned to bring magical play experiences to kids and their families in 2022 leveraging the strengths within our three creative centres toy, entertainment and digital games. It’s rewarding to see our strategic approach is driving strong revenue growth in 2021 so far in. The year was not without its challenges as we were faced with global supply chain disruptions which our team expertly managed to ensure steady inventory flow. In addition to an innovative toy line-up, our entertainment creative centre marked a major milestone with our first feature film, PAW Patrol: The Movie,

Nix: “We had an amazing year; coming out of the pandemic was never going to be easy but despite those challenges we've seen exceptional growth across the business. We've grown the team, making strategic appointments in key areas of the business - building the dream team. We smashed our revenue target and are looking forward to what's to come in 2022.”

Inset: Luke says he is especially passionate about Cybex’s launch of the Anoris T.

Fran: “Overall 2021 was a good, but challenging year. Getting back to normal after a year of lockdown was

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INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLE PRODUCT WISE - WHAT ARE YOUR KEY HIGHLIGHTS/LAUNCHES FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2022?

bringing new fans to the franchise and driving demand for our toys. Within digital games, Toca Life World, recently awarded the number one iPhone App of the year by Apple, continues to drive exceptional consumer engagement and revenue growth.”

Luke: “The Anoris T is set to be a hero product for us this year and we are looking forward to revealing more details on our brand new Mios, Priam and E-Priam. The existing Priam is already a firm favourite with consumers, a few celebrities, too. So we are thrilled to be launching the new version with additional features.”

WHAT ARE THE KEY THINGS ABOUT THE NURSERY/TOY INDUSTRY WHICH MADE IT SURVIVE THROUGHOUT THE CHALLENGES OF COVID?

Nix: “So excited about what's coming up this year - I can't say too much but I can promise it's going to be an incredible year of campaigns and NPD. We've got the SnuzKot Wardrobe coming up this spring, which completes the dream Scandinavian nursery.”

Luke: “Pandemic or not, babies were still being born and children still needed essentials like car seats and pushchairs. These are essential purchases and continued online even when in-store purchases were not possible. We noticed consumers had more time to research their product choices and as people were out walking more, they carefully considered the features they required in pushchairs and prams.”

Fran: “You’ll have to wait and see… we have some exciting developments in the travel category but I’ll leave it at that for now.”

Phil: “Our preschool line-up for 2022 is filled with fresh new fun. PAW Patrol will introduce new themes, Rescue Knights in the spring Nix: “Like with any industry, Covid has and Big Rig Pups in the autumn, which will taken its toll. Despite the market shrinking, be introduced across both the entertainment we are fundamentally less reliant on property and toy line. external factors as consumers are still having Last year we debuted Gabby’s Dollhouse children - we're seeing new births from 'the toys, based on DreamWorks Animation’s Netflix lockdown generation'. More than that though, original preschool series and the line has been a I think nursery retailers have seen so many Above: Green Sheep Group’s SnuzKot Wardrobe completes the smashing success with fans. Standing at over two challenges over the years and those that have dream Scandinavian nursery. feet tall, the Gabby’s Dollhouse play-set was one survived and are thriving, are those that have of the hottest toys for the holidays. This year we demonstrated incredible resilience and shrewdness to adapt will introduce more fantastical worlds inspired by the show with consumer shopping habits and trends.” including Kitty Fairy’s Garden Treehouse in the spring.” Fran: “Pivoting to sell online has been a key feature for the industry and has helped many retailers to survive (and thrive) HOW DO YOU SEE THE RETAIL LANDSCAPE during the challenges of Covid.” CONTINUING TO ADAPT IN 2022? Phil: “Toys and games are a fundamental part of childhood and during the pandemic, as schools were closed and social distancing orders were in place, the need for play and entertainment became especially crucial. Whether to relieve boredom, create new hobbies, as a form of edutainment or truly just deliver the joy that comes with play, the toy industry saw overall growth to meet these needs. This is true not just for physical toys but also digital games. Kids are spending more time socialising with their friends in these expansive digital playgrounds and this was amplified during the pandemic. We also saw this pandemic trend within our own digital games offering with six consecutive quarters of record revenue growth in our digital games business.” WHAT DO YOU EXPECT THE KEY TRENDS IN PRESCHOOL TO BE IN 2022? Fran: “Providing customers with higher value is becoming an increasing trend and I think we’ll see more cross category bundles going into 2022. It makes life simpler when customers can get everything they need in one purchase, which is a large part of the attraction.”

Luke: “Sadly I think we will see more uncertainty caused by Covid, but if the past two years have taught us anything, it’s that we can all adapt to changes more agilely than we ever imagined. While new parents like to experience our products in show rooms before they buy, I think we will also see a continued upward trend of online purchases.” Nix: “The question really sets the tone for this one - adaptability is key to retail. With my brand hat on, retail is about providing an unforgettable in-store experience for the consumer; one that integrates product play with digital technology and mobile browsing seems to be the way things are going. One trend I do see though is the emergence of lots of new dropship ecommerce businesses who want to be the next Amazon for baby - while this offers yet another shopping channel for the consumer, I think for the credibility, authority and survival of our industry, it’s key as brands that we support retailers that offer much more than just a transaction.” Fran: “Some big names are entering back into the game, with Mothercare via Boots and Toys R Us also making a comeback. After a few tough years, 2022 could be a year

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INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLE Inset: The new PAW Patrol Rescue Knights theme will launch in the spring.

sustainable project, the collection is made with REPREVE® certified recycled fibres, the yarn in each product utilises up to 31 recycled plastic PET bottles. We have also introduced a new sustainable fabric range to the Platinum strollers available in three colourways for 2022.” Fran: “Curated and concession retail is starting to become more prevalent in the sector and I believe there’s a big growth opportunity here. Brand partnerships that have a similar customer base should do well in this space.” Nix: “Natural products is a sector that is seeing phenomenal growth - and consumers are clued up. Retailers should consider stocking eco-friendly options in every category - it offers great margin and attracts an affluent customer.”

where both old and new national retailers start to ramp up their efforts to become a destination for new parents.” WHAT CHALLENGES LIE AHEAD? Luke: “As well as the ongoing Covid crisis, I think we may also face more of the same shipping and EU import issues we have seen this year. We are working hard to overcome this so we can maintain delivery efficiency for our clients.” Nix: “Consumers have so many options and research avenues available to them - I think being relevant, honest and communicating value is key. Playing to a generation of online shoppers, we're still, as an industry, looking at the short-term gain - we have to employ long-term vision when it comes to pricing, sale periods and stock management.” Fran: “Covid will still pose a threat to physical retail and this may dampen footfall even further, however this will continue to lend itself well to offline retail, which shows no signs of slowing down.” WHERE DO YOU SEE FURTHER GROWTH FOR THE TOY/NURSERY SECTORS COMING FROM IN 2022? Luke: “Technology is moving at a faster pace than we could ever imagine - as a company we pride ourselves on our research and innovation to utilise the newest technologies, for the greater good of our client. While new technology is fantastic it has to be for the sake of the consumers not for the sake of innovation, at each step we question whether our innovations will improve our consumers experience and child safety, and in-turn make parenthood that little bit easier. Sustainability is something we all have a responsibility to consider, not only as quite rightly we see legalisation changing to enforce a greater sense of responsibility on companies, but as an industry in the nursery sector we have a greater responsibility to the very children we look to protect with our products. They deserve innovation in sustainability to ensure the world is still intact for their children’s children. As a company we are constantly exploring new sustainable fabrics, manufacturing options, and how we can be more sustainable in our freight, transportation and logistic methods. Our Karolina Kurkova Collection was an entirely

PERSONALLY, WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2022? Luke: “Personally I’m looking forward to bringing our new products to the market. I’m especially passionate about the Anoris T. I’ve worked in car seat safety for over 30 years and as a parent myself, child safety is incredibly important to me. So it’s fantastic to finally see some of the safety features, previously only available to adults, now available for our most precious cargo.” Nix: “I'm looking forward to breaking new ground and categories with our NPD, and working with our retail partners to sell these into consumer. I'm really excited about our plans for emerging markets and growing a marketing force within this business.” Fran: “The cost of shipping containers and the wider supply chain getting back to something close to normal is what I’m looking forward to. Whether it happens in 2022 or not remains to be seen, but it’s certainly on the New Year’s wish list.” Phil: “Throughout the pandemic, toys, entertainment and digital games have served as a comfort for children around the world. What always drives our team is knowing that we have the unique job of bringing joy to children’s lives by creating innovative experiences. Within the preschool space, we have such enthusiastic fandom whether that be for PAW Patrol or for Gabby’s Dollhouse. I am most looking forward to continuing to see the reaction of these young fans to our new toy line-up and enabling them to recreate their own adventures at home.” Below: Ickle Bubba ended 2021 on a high as it partnered with Asda.

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VISTA PR Celebrating 10 years working with family brands

vistapublicrelations.com

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Preschool Party Pages 2021_MUK.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2022 14:19 Page 1

PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDS2021: IN PICTURES

PARTY

The Progressive Preschool Awards returned to The Grosvenor in London at the end of last year, and what a triumphant return it was. PPS rounds up some of the pre-awards activity and puts all of the winners in the spotlight.

Left: The Azaria PR team certainly helped to bring the glamour to the proceedings. Right: Karen Hewitt (centre), cofounder and buying director at Character.com, picked up Best Online Retailer. Below left: My Carry Potty was the sponsor of Best Preschool Publishing Range.

Left: Toymaster’s Brian McLaughlin with award winners, Lee and Sarah Borastero from Kids Stuff Wells.

Right: The BTHA’s Majen Immink and Rebecca Deeming.

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDS2021: IN PICTURES Inset: The popular ‘Higher or Lower’ game got the audience warmed up ahead of the awards.

Left: The awards were ably presided over by Sara Barron. Right: Nick Richardson, ceo of The Insights Family - and sponsor of ‘Higher or Lower’ awarded the prize to Aykroyd & Sons’ Ffion Aykroyd-Davies.

Right: Jeremy Minchin was among the Hippychick team collecting the award for Best Distributor/Wholesaler of Preschool Product.

Above: (from left) Bethan Garton (The Point.1888), Marianne James (Hasbro), Sally Carnota (Hasbro) and Ruth Golightly (Asda).

Below: Executives from Acamar Films, Golden Bear and Trends UK enjoying the drinks reception.

Below: Julia Redman of BuyersEye kindly donated the star prize in the raffle in aid of The Light Fund.

Far right: The uplifting grand finale of the afternoon saw David Welsh, md of Allison Baby (second from right) awarded with the Outstanding Achievement accolade.

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST SUPERMARKET RETAILER OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS WINNER

Right: Collecting the first award of the afternoon was Nicola McIntyre and Holly Richardson from the kids and baby buying team at George..

Asda

Left: The first award of the afternoon was presented by Rebecca Jenkins, Director of Retail and New Business at ViacomCBS Consumer Products.

Sponsored by

BEST MULTIPLE RETAILER OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS WINNER The Entertainer

Above: The Entertainer’s Licensing Manager Mary Lewis and ***** collected the award for Best Multiple Retailer of Preschool Products.

Sponsored by Above: Faye Rashad, design and licensing manager for Misirli presented the Best Multiple Retailer of Preschool Products award.

Initial reaction: “We are proud and delighted that The Entertainer won Best Multiple Retailer of Preschool Products at the Progressive Preschool Awards 2021. We were up against some tough ﬁnalists, but it’s a reﬂection of how hard everyone has worked across the business to deliver a fantastic range and experience for our customers. A huge thank you to the whole team.” Geoff Sheffield, chief commercial officer

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST MIXED CATEGORY RETAILER OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS Sponsored by

WINNER

B&M

Right:Gary Freeman collected the award on behalf of B&M.

Initial reaction: “We are all so delighted with the award, it’s come as a real shock to us! It’s so nice to be recognised for our hard work." Hayley White, toy buyer

Right: Rainbow Design’s managing director Anthony Temple presented the award for the Best Mixed Category Retailer of Preschool Products

BEST DEPARTMENT STORE RETAILER OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS WINNER

Right: Michelle McGuire, buyer from John Lewis collected this much sought after award..

John Lewis

Left: John Taylor, Wildbrain CPLG’s VP Northern Europe was pleased to present the award for Best Department Store Retailer of Preschool Products to this year’s worthy winner.

Initial reaction: “We were delighted to hear that John Lewis had won Best Department Store at the Progressive Preschool Awards. We are so glad that the nursery, baby and preschool ranges that we carefully curate for our customers, as well as our service, is being recognised.” Roseanne Winthrop, partner and category lead, nursery

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST ONLINE RETAILER OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS WINNER

Above: Aykroyd & Son’s director Sion Aykroyd came to the stage to present the award for Best Online Retailer of Preschool Products.

Character.com

Left: Character.com’s buying director Karen Hewitt, along with her team collected the award for Best Online Retailer of Preschool Products.

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Initial reaction: “We at Character.com are always so delighted and grateful to win any award, but we are honoured to be recognised as Best Online Retailer at the Progressive Preschool Awards. It's a great acknowledgment of how hard the team work and the great partnerships we have built with everyone we work with. We are truly very thankful to even be nominated so to win is just a really great feeling.” Karen Hewitt, buying director

BEST INDEPENDENT NURSERY RETAILER WINNER Bumpstart Baby

Left: Collecting the award for Best Independent Nursery Retailer was Bumpstart Baby’s Associate Director, Susannah Irving, along with her team. Right: David Welsh, managing director of Joie was next up to present the award for Best Independent Nursery Retailer.

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Initial reaction: “It was an honour to be recognised and even make it as a ﬁnalist for Best Independent Nursery Retailer, so you can imagine our delight and surprise when Bumpstart Baby Shop was announced over the speakers. I am so glad we had our ‘dream team’ in attendance to collect the award they have all worked so hard for. We would like to thank our dedicated team, our fantastic supportive suppliers and loyal customer base (and of course Progressive Preschool!) who have all played their part in helping us win this impressive award.’ Susannah Irving, associate director

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST INDEPENDENT APPAREL RETAILER Sponsored by

WINNER

Odd Socks

Below: Mel Beer, Amscan’s Group Licensing Director presented the award to this year’s worthy winner.

Right: Terry Wallace* collected the award on behalf of Odd Socks.

Initial reaction: “I was over the moon to get the news we had won the category! Retail is full of highs and lows and just when I needed a pick me up this happened!! I’m delighted for me and my team and for high street shopping! Thank you so much and I hope this will help boost our proﬁle and lead to greater things.” Julia Warnes, owner

BEST INDEPENDENT TOY RETAILER WINNER

Kids Stuff Above: Dominique Peckett, director at Smiffy’s presented the afternoon’s next award for Best Independent Toy Retailer Above: Lee and Sarah Borastero, owners of Kids Stuff were thrilled to be presented with the award for Best Independent Toy Retailer.

Initial reaction: “We are absolutely blown away at winning the Best Independent Toy Retailer. Thank you to everyone that voted for us. We haven’t quite been able to wipe the smiles off our faces yet and still cannot quiet believe it. We would also like to thank our children Jasmine, Thomas, Meghan and Florence who all help to run our toy shop. It is a whole family effort.” Sarah and Lee Borastero, owners

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BEST INDEPENDENT GIFTWARE RETAILER Sponsored by

WINNER

Small Stuff

Initial reaction: “Winning this award came as an incredible surprise, and after a difficult few years within retail - it couldn’t have come at a better time! I can’t wait until it takes pride of place in our window display!” Hellen Stirling-Baker ,founder

Above: Lisa Bryant collected the award on behalf of Small Stuff. Right: Hippychick’s managing director, Jeremy Minchin was thrilled to be presenting the award for Best Independent Giftware Retailer.

BEST PRESCHOOL APPAREL RANGE WINNER

Right: Ffion and Sion Aykroyd, from Aykroyd’s & Sons collected the award, bringing several of their team members with them! Below: Presenting the first of the afternoon’s product categories for Best Preschool Apparel Range is Sally Carnota, Hasbro’s Director of UK Licensing.

Peppa Pig team GB Daywear Range for Character.com from Aykroyd’s & Sons

Initial reaction: “Wow! Cannot believe we’ve just won the Best Preschool Apparel Range Award at the PPSA’s! We’re absolutely delighted with this and are massively thankful to the Aykroyds wider team who worked on the product and brought it all to life! Thanks also to the organisers of the PPSA for arranging such a fantastic event during these challenging times.” Sion Aykroyd, director

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST PRESCHOOL TOY RANGE (12m+) Sponsored by

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PAW Patrol Range from Tonies Right: Liz Peters, International Portfolio Manager for Tonies UK was pleased to collect the award.

Above: BBC Studio’s senior licensing manager Julie Kerwick presented the award for Best Preschool Toy Range.

Initial reaction: “I was so excited to hear the tonies name called out as the winner! We are still a fairly new brand in the UK, and we were up against some stiff competition. The prize is really a testament to how hard the whole of the team has worked this year to bring our Paw Patrol range of Tonies to market.” Liz Peters, portfolio manager, international

BEST PRESCHOOL STEM OR EDUCATIONAL RANGE WINNER

MathLink Cubes Numberblocks 1-10 Activity Set from Learning Resources

Above: Coming onto the stage to collect the award was Learning Resources’ Head of Product Development, Allan Lennon. Right: Evolution PR’s Account Manager Georgie Dobie was next on stage to present the award for Best Preschool STEM or Educational Range.

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BEST PRESCHOOL PUBLISHING RANGE Sponsored by

WINNER

Fun To Learn Standalone Magazine Range from Redan Publishing.

Right: Julie Jones, Redan Publishing’s managing director came to the stage to collect the award.

Initial reaction: “It was a very special moment as the ‘Fun To Learn Standalone Magazine Range’ was announced as the winner. It is a true testament to the creativity, passion and hard work that everyone puts in. I’m immensely proud of the team and I know that our founder Robert Sutherland would have been beaming with pride that Redan has been recognised by the industry with such a prestigious award. We are all chuffed to bits!” Julie Jones, publishing director

Below: Amanda Jenner, managing director of My Carry Potty was pleased to announce the winner of the Best Preschool Publishing Range.

BEST PRESCHOOL HOME OR FURNITURE RANGE WINNER

Right: ickle Bubba’s head of Product Development Lindsay Reardon and was thrilled to collect the award.

Teepee Playtime 4 piece Play Bundle from Ickle Bubba Left: Exhibition organiser Adrian Sneyd presented the award for Best Home or Furniture Range.

Initial reaction: “We are delighted to see our ﬁrst step into the interiors category recognised by Progressive Preschool. The Teepee Playtime 4 Piece Play Bundle is a fantastic example of how affordable style is key to the success of Ickle Bubba. This commendation recognises how we’ve achieved this through added value themed bundles which offer convenience and ease to parents at all budgets.” Jenna Shorter, global communications manager

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST PRESCHOOL GIFT RANGE Sponsored by

WINNER

Peter Rabbit Baby Collection from Enesco. Right: Enesco’s Licensing Manager Wendy Addison come to the stage to collect the trophy.

Above: Fiona Macmillan, managing director of Centum Books presented the award for Best Preschool Gift Range.

Initial reaction: “We were delighted to be nominated for two Progressive Preschool Awards for the Peter Rabbit range and to win the Best Gift Range for the Peter Rabbit Baby Collection was amazing. It was wonderful to be part of the team who created the Peter Rabbit Baby Collection and a big thank you to Thomas Merrington and Penguin team for their help & support in making it happen.” Wendy Addison, licensing manager

BEST WHEELED GOODS OR CAR SEAT RANGE WINNER

Gazelle S Pushchair from Cybex

Above: Luke Burns, General Manager UK & Ireland and David Roberts, Head of Sales UK & Ireland from Cybex came onto the stage to collect the award.

Left: Jane Pavia-Davis, Vista Public Relations’ managing director, presented the award of Best Wheeled Goods or Car Seat Range.

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BEST PRESCHOOL ESSENTIALS RANGE Sponsored by

WINNER

Stages 1-3 Children’s Cutlery from Nana’s Manners Right: Nana’s Manners directors Kathryn and Chris Baldry-Chourio were delighted to win the award for Best Preschool Essentials Range.

Initial reaction: “We were delighted to hear that Nana’s Manners three stage cutlery range had been shortlisted in the Best Preschool Essentials category. To be selected as winner of this prestigious category is amazing! Hearing we’d won made us so happy! Nana’s Manners supports families but this range focusses on children’s development and growth from weaning, through toddler and primary school ages and so this award, is something we are very proud of. Thank you so much!” Chris Baldrey-Chourio, director

Below: Bébélephant’s managing director Elliot Bishop presented the award for Best Preschool Essentials Range.

BEST PRESCHOOL KIDS’ LIFESTYLE RANGE WINNER

Right: To collect the award for Idea’s International was Isabella King and Simon King..

Little Tikes Traveller from Idea’s International Left: Poetic Brands’ commercial director Anne Bradford presented the award to this year’s winner of the Best Preschool Kids Lifestyle Range.

Initial reaction: “The moment our name was called I was in complete shock and utter disbelief, I will be forever grateful to the team at Max Publishing for a memory I will carry with me for the rest of my life.” Isabella King, brand development manager

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

BEST INFANT DEVELOPMENT RANGE WINNER

ELC Blossom Farm Range from Addo Play

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Above: Amanda Gummer, Dr Gummer’s Good Play Guide’s CEO and founder came to the stage to present the final product award of the afternoon.

Above: Claire Loxley, Senior product Development manager for Early Learning centre and Pete Fuller, marketing manager for Addo Play, collected the final product award.

Initial reaction: “I just wanted to say what a fantastic event you put on yesterday. Even better as we won an award! It was great fun and really well organised but also so good to actually talk to people in the preschool / licensing industry again face to face.” Pete Fuller, marketing manager

THE MARKETING AWARD WINNER Hasbro’s Unicef x PJ Masks Bedtime Heroes campaign

Sponsored by Above: Azaria’s managing director Amber Steventon presented The Marketing Award to this year’ winner.

Initial reaction: “We were especially thrilled when PJ x Unicef won the Marketing Award – since we were up against our very own Peppa Pig. Partnering with Unicef on the PJ Masks Bedtime Heroes monthly pack is something we’re so proud of and it’s fantastic to have that recognised by the industry – thank you!” Esra Cafer, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Management, Family Brands

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

WHAT PARENTS LOVE Sponsored by

WINNER

LEGO

Below: Nick Richardson, founder and CEO of the Insights Family came to the stage to present the What Parents Love award,

Above: Stephanie Freeman from LEGO was pleased to collect the What Parents Love award.

Initial reaction: “Although initially shocked at hearing the LEGO name read out as the winner against such massive global brands, I then felt very proud to work for such an honoured and recognised company. When an award is given by the general public, it means more than those voted by industry experts and is a testament to how the company is managed and still remains a family owned business with amazing values.” Stephanie Freeman, senior licensing manager, retail & marketing

BEST WHOLESALER OR DISTRIBUTOR OF PRESCHOOL PRODUCTS WINNER

Hippychick Above: Redan Publishing’s managing director Julie Jones came to the stage to present this hotly contested category.

Above: Alex Molyneux, Alan Houghton, Julia Minchin and Jeremy Minchin from Hippychick all came to the stage to collect the award for Best Distributor or Wholesaler of Preschool Products.

Initial reaction: “We feel very blessed and proud of our team – they have put in a huge effort here at work and frequently at home over the last 12 months and it is great that it is recognised by the customers……without whom we would cease to exist, so they really are the most important people in our daily lives.” Jeremy Minchin, managing director

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PROGRESSIVEPRESCHOOLAWARDSWINNERS2021

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER David Welsh, managing director, Joie Right: David Welsh, managing director Joie is awarded the Progressive Preschool Awards 2022 Outstanding Achievement Award.

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Presenting the award was director and co-owner at Max Publishing, Rob Willis, who spoke fondly of Mr Welsh, describing him as a true industry magnate, whose ability to understand the importance of brands to parents, as what sets him apart. “What set David apart from a very early age was his ability to understand the importance of brands, to parents. Brands are just as vital in their positioning, as the quality and functionality of the product – it’s an essential partnership with very few special people being able to understand the unique intricacies of both, and how to twine them.” said Rob. Speaking at the event, David Welsh said: “To be recognised for something I love, is great – it’s not work for me. With Joie, in nine years, we have gone from zero to £70million – but it’s not me, it’s the products and the people I employ. At Joie we invest in talent, and without that talent, even with good products, we are nothing. “I owe this award to all of the people who supported me at Chicco and all of those who support me at Joie – they make life easy for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

PPSA INDIE WINNERS Inset: Odd Socks owner, Julia Warnes has received a lot of support since announcing she won the award.

Four independent retailers were recognised in last year’s glittering Progressive Preschool Awards ceremony, bringing a highlight to the end of what has been a turbulent year for many retailers. The winners have been sharing with PPS about their last year in business, their hopes and plans for the future and what their award means to them.

INDIE

ACCOLADES

Julia Warnes, owner, Odd Socks winner of Best Independent Apparel Retailer “I was just putting some figures in and when you look at the months we were closed, it is just unbelievable really that we’re still here. Obviously we’ve had to take loans to stay here. Being a relatively new-ish business anyway, we hadn’t really settled in before we hit the Brexit debacle and then this on top of that. I feel like we’ve had three years of turmoil. “We’re now into year six, and I had given myself a five-year limit, but we’ve carried on and support since we’ve re-opened has been pretty good. People love to come in

to shop. The high street just has to somehow carry on. It’s lovely to see people and help people, rather than just being an online presence. This has to be the way forward. Customer service is key for me; I focus on those that need help selecting gifts. We wrap and pack too, so they can come, get the gift, hand it over and they haven’t had to do anything else. “It’s really lovely to be recognised that we are doing a good job through the awards. I thank all the people I work with for that as well. We got a lot of support when I put it out there

that we had won the award, lots of wonderful comments. “In 2022, I want to get back to a position where I am confident financially that we can move forward, and my main aim is to grow my online sales, to give me the push financially to help keep the shop open. But 90% of my business is through the door, so I look after my customers locally and then hope to push online to give us the boost we need. If I could see myself this time next year as being in profit, that would be wonderful.”

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PPSA INDIE WINNERS Susannah Irving, associate director, Bumpstart Baby Shop winner of Best Independent Nursery Retailer

“The beginning of 2021 was tough for retailers, however luckily with our online store we were able to tick along. As soon as our doors opened in April it has been full steam ahead with a very busy and positive year of trading. “It was incredibly frustrating to be considered as a non-essential retailer, considering we sell car seats and multiple other essential baby goods. Thankfully, we are well set up with a good online platform. We were quick to extend our offer to include virtual appointments, to ensure our customers could still experience our personal shopping service, which proved very popular. We also offered free delivery and a click and collect service. We also had the rare opportunity to have a good old clear up and move around in-store. “The key things keeping us going have been a sense of humour and dogged determination. In all seriousness, the support of our team has been incredible, as well as our suppliers and of course our loyal customer base who continued to spread the word and utilise us and appreciated the extra services we put in place during the lockdowns. “Helen, our director who started the business 30 years ago, is stepping down in early 2022. We’re keeping it in the family, and Susannah (me), the original Bumpstart Baby, is taking on her role. We’re planning some system overhauls and a few exciting aesthetic changes to the store itself. “The Progressive Preschool Award has been a massive boost for our team; we were overwhelmed and thrilled to be nominated, let alone win Best Independent Nursery Retailer. The award is proudly displayed next to the till, and our team love the chance to chat about it to customers.” Below: The Bumpstart Baby team love the chance to chat about the award in the store.

Inset: Hellen says the PPS Award couldn’t have come at a better time.

Hellen Stirling-Baker, founder Small Stuff UK, winner of Best Independent Gift Retailer

“2021 has been a really tough year, from having a particularly challenging Christmas 2020 with the pandemic, to then being closed at the beginning of the year - it’s been hard to gain the traction and get customers to come out and visit us again in-store. These challenges have, however given me the opportunity to really step back and re-evaluate the business, get some fantastic new suppliers on board and work on the experience, vision and ethos of my store. We are now in such a better place. “Knowing that I have the best, most loyal customers who absolutely love the ethos and vision of the brand is the best thing about being an independent business. I have also worked really hard this year to grow and promote the ethos of the brand and being able to work with some incredible organisations such as Planet Mark, has helped me deliver that message nationwide. “I am really looking forward to 2022, I have some incredible plans in the pipeline, such as growing the Clothes The Loop second hand range, opening more opportunities to new suppliers and working on pop-up shops to promote the brand even further. "The main goal over the next year would be to make the business model less linear and work with more incredible charities, organisations and shared value partners. 2022 will hopefully bring Small Stuff a third year certification from Planet Mark and I’ll be working towards becoming a B Corporation too. “Winning this award came as an incredible surprise, and after a difficult few years within retail - it couldn’t have come at a better time.”

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PPSA INDIE WINNERS Sarah and Lee Borastero, owners, Kids Stuff Wells winner of Best Independent Toy Retailer “2021 was a strange one to say the least. We started it in lockdown, thinking it would only be for a couple of weeks. Four months later we were allowed to reopen. We missed most of the Easter rush, but were thankful to see our loyal customers back in the shop. Tourists soon returned too, with a vengeance, due to everyone having a ‘staycation’. It has been one of our busiest years to date. “During the first lockdown, we offered a local free delivery service with all orders. This proved very popular, we were just as busy as if the shop were still open. We utilised social media a lot, and to our advantage it worked. “We have a very loyal customer base who have been behind us all the way. As a traditional toy shop, it has come in handy that we stock a variety of games and toys. We have had great interaction with customers through social media, and being able to post up to date stock information has helped them

in making purchases more easily. “Still being able to bring great service and great products to our customers has been a highlight for us. We are still very passionate about the toy industry, and as it’s our livelihood, we will continue to have fun in what we do. “The main goal for 2022 is still to be trading, but also to grow our customer base; To source good quality toys and games at the upcoming trade fairs; To continue to see the smiles on the faces of children when they step into our shop. “We were, and still are, overwhelmed by winning the Best Independent Toy Retailer award again (we won in 2013 too). As our business is a family concern, with all our children working in the shop or behind the scenes, we are very grateful to be recognised with this award. It proves hard work does pay off.” Below: Kids Stuff’s award win marked the second time the retailer has been recognised in the awards.

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SECTOR FOCUS Inset: Functionality is a big focus for parents, so Joie is always looking for new ways to make its products more adaptable and user friendly.

BEHIND THE WHEEL As such a huge sector of the nursery industry, innovation comes thick and fast in prams and pushchair products, and trends also change quickly. PPS finds out from some of the key suppliers what’s new, what’s coming and what the biggest challenges are in the category.

etting a child from A to B is no longer the sole function of a pram or pushchair. As a major purchase for new and prospective parents, these Right: There will be a new collection products now need to suit a launching for 2022 family’s lifestyle, be easy to use using recycled and fit with the current trends. PET bottles from ABC Design. With so many factors to Below: ABC Design consider, suppliers are finding hopes to deliver an consumers are spending a lot all-rounder with the new Samba of time researching products launch this month. prior to purchase. Store closures recently took this research online, but customers are now returning to stores to make this all-important purchase. Luke Burns, general manager of Cybex, UK and Ireland, tells us: “We find that as soon as parents find out they are pregnant, they often start online research for the products they need, especially for first time parents, these are products

they may never had experienced before. “We have seen a greater uptake in online purchases this past year, but when stores reopened after each lockdown, understandably parents-tobe wanted to see, feel and test the product before they committed to a purchase.” Product development manager at Joie, Damon Marriott, concurs: “We expect that consumers will continue to do a fair bit of research online, but with items like this, a lot of it has to do with the physical look and feel. With that in mind, it is thought that consumers will be returning to retailers to have a look at the products in person – as ever, the consumer always looks for the best available price and this may still be found online.” What those consumers are looking for during their research is fairly straightforward. Donna McCullough, marketing manager at Johnston Prams, explains: “Consumers always like a pushchair that looks good and feels comfortable to push. They also focus on the ease of the fold and how compact it is. “Some are interested in off-road capabilities. And of course, value is important in the decision-

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To place an order, visit the Ickle Bubba portal or contact your account manager: Grant Koston - Category Manager - Furniture grant.koston@icklebubba.com 07900 612800 *Comes with a 4-year warranty when registered so you know it will go the distance.

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SECTOR FOCUS Far left: Integration of technology is a key trend and Cybex is launching the new ePriam this year which incorporates an app with a rocking function. Left: The Gazelle S frame has integrated single to duo conversion adapters.

making process. Many Noordi customers love the fact that their travel systems come with a separate carry cot and that the bag and accessories are included in the price.” Style is also a key factor, as Damon says: “Consumers like their pushchairs to be an extension of themselves so they look for a style that they love, as well as something that functions well.” There has been a slight shift in purchasing considerations in the past year, according to Luke: “Pushchairs and strollers have become much more important in a family’s life, especially as lifestyles changed over lockdown. They can now offer a way to integrate children into your lifestyle. “We make products to suit all different lifestyles, there is something for all, some of our key lines like the Priam, Balios S Lux, Gazelle S, and ePriam are so versatile, they work for those in a city and then those who love to go out in parks and long walks or off-road.” Fiona Suffield, country manager, UK and Ireland, ABC Design, agrees: “Consumers are certainly looking for prams that can work in every environment, from countryside walks to city living. An all-rounder is certainly something we are asked for and we hope to deliver with the new Samba in January.” Also key to product development is the sustainability consideration. Some have been working on this for some time, as Damon says: “As a manufacturer, our factory started an environment friendly drive many years ago, so have had a plastic recycling programme in place since 2005, which has seen over 1,000 tons recycled.

Combined with a water treatment centre that allows reuse of 80% of the waste water and the introduction of solar power on-site, has reduced greenhouse gas emission by over 1536.5 tons so far and counting. With further sustainable and environment products on the horizon, watch this space.” Others are readying new initiatives. Fiona continues: “We have a new 2022 collection launching at the end of January in the UK and we have already taken steps towards reducing packaging and also using recycled fabrics in a selection of our prams, these are made up of recycled PET bottles. “In March we will also be launching our brand new Samba in black dots and this will be both recycled and we will also be working with Click a Tree, donating €30 from each sale to the planting of trees.” Cybex is researching more new options, as Luke tells us: “As a company we are constantly exploring new sustainable working methods, including sustainable fabrics, manufacturing options, and our freight, transportation and logistic methods. “Our Karolina Kurkova Collection was an entirely sustainable project, the collection is made with Repreve certified fibres. For next year we are introducing a new sustainable fabric range to the Platinum strollers available in three colourways.”

Noordi, meanwhile, is taking a 360 approach to the issue. Donna explains: “Their factory is now powered with solar energy; their fabrics, plastics and other components are recycled; their workforce is local and trained in all aspects of sustainability and traditional craftsmanship. But, and I feel this is one of the important points about Noordi, because they are a Scandi brand, their manufacturing takes place in mainland Europe and the prams they produce have a very short journey to the UK. This brand, for sure, is taking sustainability to an unprecedented level.” Delivering all these functional and stylish prams and pushchairs is not without its challenges, though. Donna explains: “There is a general inflation right across the board with costs increasing in every sector such as utilities, rents, wages etc. These price hikes present huge challenges. A specific example for our sector would be the escalation in the cost of shipping. How long can distributors absorb these extra costs without passing them on to the consumer? That is the question.” ABC Design has had to adapt to overcome hurdles. Fiona furthers: “Brexit has created a whole new host of issues with shipping which I hope don’t challenge us all as much in 2022, these things do become exhausting and no one likes letting people down by long lead times, hence we made the decision to bring warehousing to the UK.” With so much innovation and a determination to overcome challenges, there is sure to be some exciting launches over the coming year in this sector.

Right: Noordi has rebranded as sustainable with every aspect of its business and production methods transformed. Far right: Noordi has noticed a growing interest in the colour green recently.

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4 YEA

WARR TY* AN

Introducing the Eclipse travel system. With a carrycot that converts into a seat and a Bubba Board for older siblings, plus luxury fabrics and leatherette detailing, Eclipse is a stylish ride for the whole family.

Includes as standard a choice of...

R129 - Mercury i-Size car seat

R44 - Galaxy group 0+ car seat

How to order...

To place an order, visit the Ickle Bubba portal or contact your account manager:

footmuff

rain cover

changing bag & mat

car seat adapters

lower position adapters

isofix base

Ian Hewitt - Head of Country Sales (UK & Ireland) ian.hewitt@icklebubba.com 07960 402 663 Keith Belch - Key Account Manager South keith.belch@icklebubba.com 07967 813852 *Comes with a 4-year warranty when registered so you know it will go the distance.

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NEW PRODUCTS

PUSHCHAIRS HAUCK Discover the outdoors with the hauck all-terrain pushchair Runner 2. This three wheeler offers a comfortable and safe ride for the child, while parents don’t need to worry about the way it simply flies over cobble stones, uneven trails and bumpy roads. Features include a height adjustable push handle, large air wheels and an extra-large seat which has a full flat lying position. Email: info@hauckuk.com www.haul.de/en

INGLESINA

DIDOFY

Inglesina’s Electa travel system is ideal for the city as it’s lightweight, compact and easy to manoeuvre – the perfect companion for busy family life. It has everything you would expect from a full size travel system, but is the weight and size of a compact stroller. With the stroller weighing in at just 8.7kg, and the high tech lightweight 5.5kg chassis, the Electa is designed to maximise space when travelling. Email: jonathan@inglesina.com www.inglesina.uk

Didofy’s new V2 Aster is the ultimate innovative compact-fold pushchair. Aster is innovatively designed to provide a reliable, safe, and highly practical ultra-compact stroller, making life easier for parents on the go. Aster features the clever MagicFold - simply press a button and the pushchair folds and unfolds itself. It has been designed as an ultra-lightweight pushchair to make travelling with a baby effortless and weighs in at just 6.2kg. Tel: 08000 126126 www.didofy.com

JOIE The Finiti from Joie’s signature range is a 4-in-1 pushchair and is the driver of dreams, with plenty of ways to roll and a fast way to fold. The bumpier the better for Finiti with a springy flex comfort seat that smooths out the bumps right in the seat and right where it matters most. It will take on the toughest terrain with foam-filled and Puncture-Proof runner tyres. Tel: 01889 808900 www.joiebaby.com

ARK The cross-terrain Ark pushchair uniquely offers a travel system with an eco-mindset. Available in five colours, the Ark pushchair is designed and engineered in the UK and features hypoallergenic fabric, shock absorbing wheels and a one hand fold. Available from Cheeky Rascals. Tel: 01730 895761 www.cheekyrascals.co.uk

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A new way forward

SAFET Y WITHOUT COMPROMISE Discover the new ANORIS T i-Size. Our safest and most intelligent car seat yet with built-in airbag technology and the full comfort of a forward-facing seat.

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ANORIS T i - SIZE

* when compared to a forward-facing harness child seat in a frontal crash. Results of internal testing using 2021 ADAC frontal crash test criteria.

76 – 115 CM | > 15 MO – APPROX. 6 YRS | MA X. 21 KG

/ CYBEX Airbag Technology: up to 50% higher safety levels* / Forward-facing comfort: limitless legroom & easy eye contact / Long usability: from >15 month up to approx. 6 years cybex-online.com

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EVENT FOCUS

FAIR

COMMENT

After two years, Toy Fair is finally heading back to London’s Olympia this January. PPS chats to some of the exhibitors about what they will be showing in the preschool space, trends for the coming year and just how much they’ve missed the show.

Above: Toy Fair is returning to London’s Olympia for the first time since 2020. Below left: My First Domino Rally is new from Taf Toys. Below middle: Rainbow Designs will be celebrating the 120th anniversary of Peter Rabbit with a number of new products. Below right: Lillipuitens will be among the 200 new products which Juratoys will be showcasing.

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EVENT FOCUS

“N

othing does quite beat a physical Toy Fair,” enthuses Barry Hughes, md of Golden Bear Toys. “It’s the chance for us to connect with the entire industry face-to-face, showcase our toys in their full glory, and give all visitors the opportunity to get hands-on and under-theskin of our products.” 2022 will see Barry, and the rest of the toy business, get their wish, with Toy Fair returning to London’s Olympia for the first time in two years. And Golden Bear will certainly be making the most of it, with numerous new launches planned. “All our preschool licences will take pride of place,” says Barry. “Hey Duggee, Bing, In the Night Garden, Mr Tumble, Love Monster, Waffle, Twirlywoos, The Baby Club and Sooty and Sweep. We have new product lines launching in many of our licensed ranges including Biteysaurus Bing and an outstanding Hey Duggee rocket. Squirty Gertie is for all the family including preschoolers and Curlimals is suitable for children from as young as three.” When it comes to trends, Barry believes that physical and mental wellbeing and sustainability concerns will continue to be top of mind for parents this year. He adds: “We are proud of what we have done so far and have many more initiatives planned for 22 and beyond.” For Halilit’s national account manager, Amy Wildman, Toy Fair is an integral part of the yearly calendar. “We take all our brands to London and have such a wide audience base there enabling us to conduct back to back productive meetings with customers both current and potential, in an environment where all of our products are to hand – something which is hard to replicate elsewhere when you have as many products as we do,” she tells PPS. “Our customers know us for offering the very best in baby, toddler and preschool play, and the 2022 show will be no different with consumer favourites such as Halilit Music and Edushape Sensory taking centre stage. Taf Toys will also be a key focus on our stand as we showcase their Easier Learning category – offering developmental toys suitable from six months into the preschool years. Furthermore, we are particularly excited to be giving our Dodo range of puzzles and craft lines their very first Toy Fair launch.” Amy continues: “We also missed the networking side of this great industry – seeing what other suppliers had been up to in terms of development and discussing the issues that are affecting us all, such as the shipping crisis this past year. It will certainly be great to get back and immersed again.”

of five in one educational beads to help with children’s development needs through the early stages of learning. The new products are designed to push, pull, twist, thread and build, with new characters including Coco the squirrel, Birdy and Bizou the bee. Neil continues: “We see this as our year to really shine and to show the retailers that we have the ability to add value to their business and provide support by offering various deals, offers, POS and marketing tools.” Meanwhile, Orange Tree Toys will be bringing its new Spring Garden range to Toy Fair, as well as its First Emergency collection and fresh additions to its successful Peter Rabbit line. The company is also bringing back its popular wooden mobile, while there will be a new set of bookends to complete the nursery. Further additions in 2022 will include extensions to the musical selection with a piano and ukulele. “We are really excited to have launched our brand new redesigned packaging which we will be displaying, which is completely plastic free, making it 100% recyclable,” says Bev Cochrane, sales manager at the company. “We are also really proud to say that by the end of 2022, all our toys will be produced using FSC-certified wood.” Bev continues: “We have really missed being able to showcase our new ranges and products, and importantly engaging with existing and new customers. We expect interactive games will continue to be popular, which is why we have introduced lots of additions to product categories to encourage outdoor play and role-play toys.”

ENGAGING WITH CUSTOMERS Juratoys’ UK commercial director, Neil Montgomery is looking forward to seeing the new layout of this year’s show – it will be occupying the Grand and National Halls for the first time in 2022. The company will have a new stand design with over 200 new products to showcase. These will include new brand, Lillipuitens, plus Lalaboom which is a colourful collection

Left: Biteysaurus Bing will be among the new launches from Golden Bear.

“TOY FAIR IS HUGELY IMPORTANT TO US” Simba Smoby Toys UK will be showcasing new licensed lines from the worlds of Peppa Pig and Masha and the Bear, as well as fresh additions to the Above: Mayur says Smoby range. Simba Smoby Toys UK These will include the BIG-Bloxx wants to make a big statement at the show. Peppa Pig construction range, consisting of starter and basic sets all the way up to big play-sets. There will also be new characters and themes in the company’s Disney plush offering, plus Frozen and Disney Princess role-play toys. New playhouses and role-play sets, such as the Sweet Corner Playhouse and the Garden Kitchen, will also join the Smoby brand. “London Toy Fair is one of the most important dates in the toy diary,” says UK marketing manager, Mayur Pattni. “And for Simba Smoby Toys UK as a business, the event is hugely important to us. Since we first exhibited at the show, Simba Smoby Toys UK has continued to enjoy massive growth. In fact, between December 2018 and December 2020, we added £8m of value in full year sales and, this year [2021], we are really up versus 2020. Our wholesale business is up, too. “At London Toy Fair 2022, we want to make a big statement. We have ambitious growth plans, and there are lots of great opportunities within our 2022 range, so we want to make sure that the Simba Smoby Toys UK stand is not missed this year.”

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CREATE DISCOVER AND

Introducing the new Create and Discover range for 2022! Fun new craft kits for creative thinkers! Build a solar system!

Make a constellation model!

STEAM Mould the earth’ s core!

LEARNING

Model y a feist fish!

our Float yigami r o own ats! bo

Create seabed creatures! Draw giant dino footprints!

Create fearsome fossils!

Make a flapping pterosaur!

Olympia • Stand E9 | Nuremberg • Hall 4 • Stand E51- F50 James Galt & Co. Ltd. • Sovereign House • Stockport Road • Cheadle • Cheshire • SK8 2EA tel: +44 (0)161 428 9111 • eFax: 0161 601 0208 • www.galttoys.com • Jumbodiset Group

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EVENT FOCUS HIGH PROFILE LAUNCHES ToyTopic will be one of the companies making its debut at Toy Fair. “We will be announcing high-profile preschool launches, expanding our fantastic relationships and partnerships with WowWee, Hasbro and ViacomCBS Consumer Products,” begins director Ashley Holman. “We are introducing new Pinkfong Baby Shark learning, preschool and bath toys featuring original and new characters from Nick Jr. UK Baby Shark’s Big Show. We will also have exciting news for Peppa Pig, PAW Patrol and more to come.” Ashley continues: “As a relatively new company, being able to showcase our amazing product is incredibly important. In one location and at one moment in time we get to meet and share with our key retailers and licensors, as well as from a marketing point of view, too.” Ashley believes that value will be a main trend in 2022: “With cost prices increasing and shipping costs showing no sign of letting up, these increases need to be passed on. So products that can hit a keen price point but give value for money are going to win this year as people feel the pinch on costs being increased in all walks of day to day life.” From a new company to one firmly established in Toy Fair history, Rainbow Designs will be kicking off 2022 with the launch of 50 new lines. These will include new additions to its Peter Rabbit, Paddington and Winnie the Pooh ranges, Right: Orange Tree Toys will be growing its First Emergency range.

“IT’S LOVELY TO SEE THE REACTION TO NEW INNOVATION” Smart Toys & Games is home to eight educational brands and its SmartMax offering will be boosted with the launch of three new sets at Toy Fair. These will include SmartMax Roboflex, although the rest of the new collection is under lock and key until the show kicks off. “Toy Fair is the best trade show to kick start the New Year,” says Karen Clarke, brand director at the company. “It is a time when we get to catch up with a lot of familiar faces, as well as meeting many new customers. It is the first show where we present our new collection of toys and games and it’s always lovely to see our customers’ reaction to the new innovation.” Karen believes that more sustainable, discovery, gardening and green products will become increasingly popular, continuing the reconnection with nature that people experienced during the lockdowns. “Families spent more time together and so certainly games, toys, arts and crafts, and outdoor play have been important sectors for mindfulness,” she adds.

“OUR STAND WILL LOOK QUITE DIFFERENT” Andrew Bacon, md of Fiesta Crafts, says its presence at Toy Fair will look quite different in 2022, with the company having greatly expanded its range of crafts since the last time it exhibited two years ago. Fiesta Crafts will be showing its collections of crafts, magnetic educational charts, hand and finger puppets and educational toys and games. Andrew comments: “We have some great additions to our craft range including 3D mask card crafts, plus our new Make A Vintage Car Craft (which is an ideal gift for preschoolers), and Police Station construction kit. We also are increasing our range of baby toys, too. “It makes such a difference for people to see products in the flesh. Video calls have been useful, but just not the same as being able to touch and feel the products. It is also so nice to see our customers in the flesh, too we have missed that.” Right: Fiesta Crafts has greatly expanded its range of crafts since the last time it exhibited at Toy Fair two years ago.

while there will also be new wooden toys joining The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Elmer educational preschool ranges. “Toy Fair has always been a highlight of the toy industry calendar - as an event it provides a golden opportunity to showcase, not only new launches but our entire collection for the year ahead to our key audiences including major buyers, independent retailers as well as the media,” explains md Anthony Temple. “Last year was extremely difficult for everyone and Toy Fair was certainly missed.” When it comes to trends, Anthony believes that Rainbow Designs is well placed to provide for the continued desire for classic characters from consumers. “Products, not particularly in one category, but with a focus on the environment are also likely to gain momentum over the coming years,” he concludes. Below: Baby Shark’s Big Show! Mix & Match Bath Swimmer will be part of the ToyTopic line-up as it makes its Toy Fair debut.

Toy Fair is due to take place from 25-27 January, 2022 at London’s Olympia. For more information, and to register, you can visit www.toyfair.co.uk.

Right: SmartMax Roboflex will be one of the new launches at the show for Smart Toys & Games.

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Rescue knight s Deluxe Vehicl es

Rescue knight s Castle HQ playset

6 to collect

Flaps Wings

50.8cm tall Rescue knight s

Sparks the Dr agon

360 degree marketing campaign Extensive TV and Digital coverage

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with Claw

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NEW PRODUCTS

TOY FAIR 2022 HACHETTE BOARDGAMES My First Adventure is a collection of storybooks, offering interactive bedtime stories that change with every read. Little ones can use the dials in each corner to choose a character, track their ‘boo-boos’ and gather items until they reach a page split into three, where they then turn the section of the page they choose and discover the outcome. Tel: 07424 900264 www.hachetteboardgames.co.uk Stand Upper Level 141

HALILIT

WILTON BRADLEY

There’s tons of fun to be had with the Taf Toys’ My First Domino Rally from Halilit. This encouraging domino set includes a bespoke tray to support little hands in positioning the dominoes upright, before knocking them over again! Once they’ve developed a steady hand young ones can practise free standing the dominoes into patterns, and then match up the dominoes with picture play on one side and traditional number recognition on the reverse. Tel: 01254 872454 www.halilit.co.uk Stand E16

It’s no secret that when it comes to outdoor play, young ones need no help in creating their own imaginary worlds. Teaching kids about gravity, angles and water flow, Waterwall is packed with limitless combinations. Children can have fun creating their own water flows and seeing their problem-solving skills come to life as they pour water from the top. As new skills develop children can participate in more complex activities Tel: 01626 835400 www.wiltonbradley.com Stand E89/E98

TOYNAMICS Toynamics UK & Ireland will be unveiling new launches for its brands Hape, Skip Hop, Nebulous Stars, DinosArt, TIMIO, Beleduc, and Nanoblock, at Toy Fair 2022. With hundreds of toy products to choose from, at multiple price points, Toynamics offers a one stop shop for retailers. Tel: 0116 4785230 www.toynamics.co.uk Stand E46

ORCHARD TOYS Orchard Toys will be adding twelve new products to its award-winning range along with a refresh of its jigsaws collection at Toy Fair 2022. From elephants and bears to slimy monsters and spaceships, the new additions offer something for all ages and interests, with ‘Learning Made Fun’ at the heart of each product. Tel: 01953 859520 www.orchardtoys.com Stand E10

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Toy Fair Olympia

25th

–

27th

January 2022

Stand No.

Lilliputiens full of unexpected Lilliputiens creationscreations are full ofare unexpected details details and activities, a constant source Stand No. of wonder, discovering and learning. and activities, a constant source of wonder, 5G30 discovering and learning. 6th – 9th February 2022

SPRING FAIR NEC TOP DRAWER

Juratoys UK Ltd. Juratoys UK Ltd. 20th – 22nd February 2022 Tel: 0208 878 2133 E: sales@juratoys.co.uk Tel: 0208 878 2133 E: sales@juratoys.co.uk

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Stand No.

K38

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65 NEW PRODUCTS

TOY FAIR 2022 THE DEN KIT COMPANY The Den Kit Company launched the first Original Den Kit in 2007. The originality of the kits is that they all contain real and authentic tools that give children the freedom to explore their own creative talents without the need for much adult intervention. Some of the new launches that will be demonstrated at Toy Fair include - The Forest Den Kit, The Potion Making Kit, The Entomology Kit, The Herbarium Kit and The Survival Bracelet Kit. Tel: 01694 751733 www.thedenkitco.com Stand GH2

SCRUNCH

SMART TOYS & GAMES

The award-winning Scrunchbucket is the original recyclable, reusable, bucket for life. Made from 100% silicone, they are environmentally friendly, recyclable and reusable. Squash them in your pocket, squish them into the corner of a suitcase and contribute more to the environment too – Roll them, fold them, scrunch them - what’s not to love about Scrunch! Tel: 07788 547836 www.scrunchkids.com Stand GH7

New from Smart Toys and Games is SmartMax Roboflex. Children from three years can get creative and make their own flexible, crazy robots. The unique magnetic parts, bend and extend for hours of play and they work seamlessly with the core SmartMax range, to add an extra dimension to the wider playset. The twelve-piece set includes an inspirational poster, but the options are endless as little ones can create robots that fly, jump, grab, wobble, or drive. Tel: 01903 885669 www.smarttoysandgames.co.uk Stand F42

CASDON There is a fresh new licence joining the Casdon portfolio this year from one of the world’s leading houseware brands, Joseph Joseph. It will be launching six products in the range, including the Joseph Joseph Bake. This colourful set features four interlocking measuring cups, a large mixing bowl, twist whisk, egg spatula and ergonomic rolling pin. With so much to play with, budding bakers can take to the kitchen ready to roll, measure and stir up a storm. Tel: 01253 766411 www.casdon.com Stand E30

POSH PAWS This spring Posh Paws is launching a brand-new interactive Sesame Street Talking Cookie Monster soft toy with fun sounds. When his tummy is pressed, preschoolers can hear him say 15 fun sounds and phrases that they’ll love listening to when they cuddle up and play with him. It will also be adding a new, super-cute dinosaur to its popular Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous range, with the fan-favourite Bumpy dinosaur soft toy. Tel: 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Stand J30-K31

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Come and in in 2022 as we our our Come andjoin joinusus 2022 as showcase we showcase latest bikes, ride-on toys, scooters and much more. Come and join us in 2022 as we showcase our latest bikes, ride-on toys, scooters and much more.

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Get an exclusive first look at our assortment Get an Marvel exclusive ofGet Disney, andfirst anexclusive exclusive first Get an first Get an exclusive look at our assortment Lucas Film licenced range first look at our assortment Get an exclusive first look atDisney, our assortment look at our assortment of Marvel of kids bikes and of Disney, Disney, Marvel and andand look at our Marvel assortment of of Disney, Marvel and ride on toys Lucas Film licenced range Stand B90 Lucas Lucas Film licenced range of Film Disney, Marvel and licenced range Grand Hall - Olympia - London Lucasof of kids bikes Film licenced range kids bikes andand Lucas Film range of licenced kids bikes and ride on toys ofride kids and onbikes toys Stand B90please of kids bikes and ride on toys To book a meeting GrandHall Hall - Olympia - London Grand - Olympia - London ride on toys ride on toys contact the team- London today : Grand Hall - Olympia Grand - Olympia - London GrandHall Hall - Olympia - London Email : sales@unitedwheels.eu

Stand B90 Stand B90 StandB90 B90 Stand

Tobook booka ameeting meeting please To please ToTel book a meeting please : +44 (0)1525 664041 contactthe theteam team today contact today : : To a ameeting please contact the team today : Tobook book meeting please Email : sales@unitedwheels.eu Email : sales@unitedwheels.eu contact the team today : : contact the team today Email : sales@unitedwheels.eu Tel : +44 664041 Tel : +44(0)1525 (0)1525 664041 Email sales@unitedwheels.eu Tel ::+44 (0)1525 664041 Email : sales@unitedwheels.eu Tel : +44 (0)1525 664041

Tel : +44 (0)1525 664041

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NEW PRODUCTS

TOY FAIR 2022 TRENDS UK Trends UK has an exciting line-up of launches on show at Toy Fair 2022 including the much-anticipated Numberblocks Number Fun & Alphablocks Phonic Fun learning toys which will launch in late Spring. These ELAs are packed with interactive activities to develop numeracy and literacy. The Numberblocks and Alphablocks award-winning learning programmes are incredibly popular in schools and at home. Tel: 01702 208175 www.trendsuk.co.uk Stand H42

8TH WONDER

GALT TOYS

2021 was a huge year for 8th Wonder with new licenses and partnerships formed with Barbie, Fisher Price, Peppa Pig, Nerf, Little Tikes, Jurassic World, Paddington, Minions and LOL Surprise! whilst also strengthening its key brand portfolio such as Paw Patrol, Hey Duggee, Bing and In the Night Garden. The team will showcase a further range and brand expansion in 2022. Tel: 01942 829811 www.8thwonder.co.uk Stand N11

For 2022 Galt Toys is launching many new products to inspire learning through play. Its Giant Floor Puzzles now include a space theme, which also contains a solar system frieze. The First Years range is growing to include the Fill & Spill Fruit Basket, Post and Play Barn and Shape Sorter Train, designed to encourage imaginative play, hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity in children aged nine to twelve months and upwards. Tel: 0161 4289111 www.jamesgalt.com Stand E9

FIESTA CRAFTS Fiesta Crafts adds to its popular Card Craft collection with Make a Vintage Car Card Craft, that lets children build their own car using connecting card pieces. The large-scale card car creation makes an ideal accessory for role play, as children makebelieve driving their very own vehicle. The 3D Card Mask range sees a fun Pirate Mask added and the large card full head masks are great for preschool aged children. Tel: 0208 8040563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk Stand G25

BRAINSTORM New from Brainstorm Toys is My Very Own Cloud, a unique 3-in-1 nightlight that’s shaped like a cloud and My Bedroom Story Torch and Projector which features six stories. Pop the discs into the torch and it projects large story images onto bedroom walls as they tell the story. Tel: 01200 445113 www.brainstormltd.co.uk Stand E79

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SING & SWING BABY SHARK

MIX & MATCH BATH SWIMMER

Dream BarBie™ e Playhous

ct!

babies to colle

INNOVATION & FUN at the heart of EVERYTHING we do!

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GET IN CONTACT TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

SALES@TOYTOPICGROUP.COM

11/01/2022 11:18

NEW PRODUCTS

TOY FAIR 2022 HUFFY With nearly 130 years in the industry, Huffy considers every detail when designing products. Its new Disney range includes the Disney Princess Kids’ bike which benefits from a steel split tube and steel unicrown with pressed dropouts. It has a Disney Princess 3D Heart translucent plaque, a rear resin fender and durable training wheels to add stability for young riders. Tel: 01525 664041 www.unitedwheels.eu Stand B90

ONE FOR FUN

RAINBOW DESIGNS

One for Fun is firmly moving into the preschool arena with the brand new BB Junior Range making its debut at Toy Fair 2022. This brilliantly designed range brings artistic style and great engineering together to create a unique concept in the nursery space. The key lines for this year are the Junior Drive & Rock collection, combining chunky robust colourful vehicles with a removable musical component. Made to withstand heavy duty handling from toddlers and helping with hand/eye co-ordination, this range is great for those 12 months and up. Tel: 01603 397129 www.oneforfun.com Stand E39

Beatrix Potter’s much-loved Peter Rabbit is commemorating a momentous 120th Anniversary this year and in celebration Rainbow Designs is adding a beautiful new wooden toy collection to its bestselling and timeless Once Upon a Time range. There will be a playful Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny PullAlong, a colourful Wooden Building Blocks Set, a five piece Wooden Shape Puzzle and a 28-piece Domino Set, all featuring the beautiful Beatrix Potter illustrations of Peter Rabbit and his friends. Tel: 01329 227300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Stand B21

1 TWO KIDS 1 two Kids is a leading distributor in the baby and kids market. It all started with Sophie la girafe and now the team also work with BiOBUDDI, 3 Sprouts, Play & Go, nailmatic KIDS and Milestone. 2021 marked a special anniversary for Sophie la giraffe as the brand turned 60 years old and is still as popular as ever, with new products added to the range all the time. Tel: 01383 735134 www.trade.1two.co.uk Stand F70

TONIES Brand partnerships with the likes of Disney, Peppa Pig and favourite CBeebies programmes have helped propel the Toniebox into every child’s orbit as the most coveted toy to get their hands on. The ever-expanding Tonies’ library includes well-known fairy tales, nursery rhymes and modern classics by the likes of Julia Donaldson, as well as a growing variety of engaging educational content. Tel: 0203 1921492 www.tonies.com Stand C42

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EVENT FOCUS Inset: The dedicated Baby and Infant Articles area of the show will be returning for 2022.

EURO

VISION

While Covid restrictions may continue across parts of Europe, the organiser of Spielwarenmesse 2022 is looking forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors back to Nuremberg in February, and is confident it can deliver a safe and successful show. PPS finds out more.

hile Covid regulations and restrictions across Europe are causing difficulties and mean that some companies have inevitably needed to change their plans at the last minute, the organiser of Spielwarenmesse 2022 is confident of being able to deliver both a safe and successful show. Due to run from 2-6 February, Spielwarenmesse eG confirmed in December 2021 that preparations for the show were continuing apace. This followed on from a survey conducted by the

organiser which found that the majority of exhibitors and trade visitors have ‘expressly backed’ the show going ahead at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. At time of writing, the rules laid out by the Bavarian government continued to allow events and focus on boosters rather than testing. Other trade fairs in Germany have successfully managed a relaunch since the start of the pandemic – with Spielwarenmesse eG saying that this proves that they can be held successfully under the restrictions in place. Left: MV Sports will be focusing on licences and products which have the most international potential, says joint md Phil Ratcliffe.

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EVENT FOCUS Inset: The Alertz Electronic Noise Management System will be a key launch for Eduk8 Worldwide.

For Christine Lawson, md of Eduk8 Worldwide, this will be welcome news as she tells PPS that Spielwarenmesse is “our chance to network with customers on a global scale”. She comments: “Its sheer size also allows us to absorb trends and innovations in the industry in real life, which makes a huge difference. Seeing our customers and having the chance to meet new ones in person makes all the difference to long-term relationship building. It’s also a long-awaited opportunity to physically show our new products to target audiences, which is a very important part of the sales journey.” The company’s key product launch will be the Alertz Electronic Noise Management System - an easy to understand traffic light noise warning system that can be used in a variety of applications such as classrooms, libraries, hospitals and special needs settings. With seven different sound level settings, adjustable from as low as 15 decibels, the product has been years in development. In addition, the company will also be showing its exclusive Mark Makers range. Visitors to the stand will be able to view the activity and story books, which are an introduction to a fun prewriting programme featuring characters Lionel, Archie, Ziggy and Swirlo, who help children develop writing skills through making basic marks. Educationalist Rachel Fay created the award-winning programme, where children aged five months to five years are encouraged to make their mark through play.

THE UK PAVILION Since the organiser of Spielwarenmesse 2022 reaffirmed in December that the event would be going ahead, Stuart Whitehall, account director at the Overseas Fairs Division of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce – which handles the UK pavilion - says the team has been working “full on” to get things in place. “We have the largest UK Pavilion since the Chamber started on this show back in 2004,” Stuart tells PPS. There are 30 companies exhibiting within the pavilion including nine newcomers. Exhibitors in the area – which is in Hall 12.0 – include Brainstorm, Eduk8 Worldwide, First Celtic Toys & Learning, Kidicraft, Pyramid International, Sinco Toys, TTS and Whiz Kid Games among others. Stuart’s aim with the pavilion this year is simple, he explains: “To attend, finally, a physical show where exhibitors meet as many buyers and customers as possible.” Below: The 2022 UK pavilion will be the largest since the Chamber started on the show back in 2004.

Christine continues: “We believe that the increased time parents and children spent together during the pandemic will continue the trend for toys that can be played with together and that provide some kind of learning or exercise opportunity. We have actually already developed the new Rainbow Wave plus our Fitness Dice, where parents and children can play along together in a fun and fitness games.” Meanwhile, for MV Sports, Spielwarenmesse gives the company a chance to expand its influence into Europe, as joint md Phil Ratcliffe explains to PPS: “We appointed new agents Spider in 2020 and this will be their first opportunity to bring their contacts to the stand.” Phil says that the company’s Nuremberg stand will be a slightly scaled down version of its London Toy Fair stand, focusing on licences and products which have the most international potential. When it comes to preschool, it will be unveiling new licences which are already in high demand in the UK, such as CoComelon and Bluey, as well as new additions to the uMoVe range. These will include ride-ons, powered vehicles, trikes, bikes, scooters, skates and play tents. Talking about the potential look and feel of the show, Phil says: “I’m not sure about look and feel, however certain categories such as outdoor are still in high demand. With increasing prices, shipping issues and longer lead times, buyers maybe on the lookout for new opportunities as we slowly emerge from the pandemic. I do think there will be less international visitors, most notably those from Asia and the Americas.” Spielwarenmesse is due to take place from 2-6 February, 2022 at Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. For more information, you can visit www.spielwarenmesse.de/en/.

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EVENT FOCUS: SPRING FAIR 2022

Returning for the first time since 2020, Spring Fair is back with a four-day show from 6-9 February, 2022, at its usual venue of the NEC, Birmingham. PPS finds out what the organisers and some of the preschool exhibitors have in store for visitors.

SPRINGING INTO ACTION

rade shows are back, and one of the first to open its doors after lockdown was Autumn Fair. Following a hugely successful show in September 2021, the organiser is now readying for an improved Spring Fair show in February. Bhavika Pattni, key account manager, Spring Fair, explains: “As Spring Fair returns for its first live event since 2020, the reaction so far from brands and buyers is resoundingly positive. We have spent many months researching the market, talking to our customers, listening and learning, and feel confident that Spring Fair will deliver the best possible experience across its four days. “Visitors will discover the most inspirational and exciting brand line-up and stock rich exhibitors, as well as the newness, cross-buying opportunities, and sustainable products that are so key to buyers and their customers now.” The most noticeable change for 2022 is the shortened format of the show. Bhavika says: “Buying behaviours have changed in recent years and visitors have communicated that they welcome a four -day show and that a more condensed few days with the same number of talks, demonstrations and meetings, would make it a more dynamic and action-packed event.” During those four days, sustainability continues to be top of the agenda and the Sustainability Trail will continue to highlight sustainable brands and the work they do. Meanwhile, the retail stage will follow the theme

Above (clockwise l to r): Following the success of Autumn Fair, Spring Fair looks set to be bigger and better, says the organiser. The reaction to Spring Fair’s return from brands and buyers has been resoundingly positive. The Spring Fair app will help visitors navigate the show and discover brands.

of Empowering Change. Bhavika continues: “From the drive towards sustainability and transparency, how retailers are evolving customer experience, consumers shopping everywhere, on every channel and how to make that work for independent retailers who are time poor, industry leaders, trend forecasters and a range of retailers will be sharing their stories with the Spring Fair audience.” Buyers will also be able to take advantage of the Curated Meetings service. The initiative was trialled at Autumn Fair and will be scaled up for February. The service brings together vetted buyers and relevant brands based on mutual interest for 15-minute 1:1 meetings. The programme includes brands across all of the show’s sectors – as well as retailers with an average buying power of £330k. And for preschool buyers, there is plenty of newness to discover at the show. Bhavika says Spring Fair is: “Home to the finest, most magical children’s toys, gifts and gadgets. Retailers can tap into the hottest play trends and those elusive Christmas hits at the Kids, Toys & Play sector. Buyers looking for the next big thing, won’t want to miss the opportunity to discover the latest, hottest products.” With many exhibitors in other sectors offering preschool products, too, there will be plenty to see at Spring Fair this year. Far left: Floor space for the show is almost sold out in every sector. Left: There will be a huge range of products for preschool buyers to see.

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To start 2022 we will be exhibiting at TOYFAIR Olympia London - come say hello !! contact@1two.co.uk 01383 735134

play mat bags for tidy play and to take toys away. Many designs available in Printed, outdoor and Soft Designs

Water-based nail polish, lip gloss, bath bombs and more containing soothing ingredients for safe fun play

Now at 60 years old, Sophie le girafe remains the perfect friend for every baby, soothing teething pains and providing comfort

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EVENT FOCUS: SPRING FAIR 2022 Enesco - Hall 4, Stand C40/41 C60/D61

Hippychick – Hall 5, Stand G25

Enesco is planning to celebrate some important anniversaries at Spring Fair, including the 120th anniversary of Peter Rabbit and artist Jim Shore’s 20 years with the company. Helen Cottrill, marketing and product director, says: “We will be launching Looney Tunes, within Britto and Jim Shore, plus Peanuts by Jim Shore will be relaunched due to high demand. We are also launching our very own plush collection. Kalidou is a mix of everyday and seasonal plush gifts for all occasions, gorgeous quality and superb design, exactly what you would expect from Enesco. “This will be the first post pandemic trade fair we are exhibiting at. You just cannot beat Spring Fair. 2022 will be the 30th time I have attended the show as an exhibitor and it remains my favourite show.” Left: The Peanuts by Jim Shore collection will be relaunched at the show.

Blade & Rose – Hall 5, Stand F46 There are many new collections and products ready for the Blade & Rose stand at Spring Fair, including a collaboration with Penguin Ventures to launch the collection for Peter Rabbit. Founder Amanda Peffer, explains: “Both brands are born from the Lake District and take inspiration from the beautiful countryside around them. The new range shows Peter in his natural habitat on the brand’s high quality clothing from birth to four years.” Other new launches include a range of the brand’s popular characters featuring on romper gift sets, recycled, colour-changing rain jackets and wellington boots, as well as new collections for SS22 and AW22. Below: The brand will be unveiling new collections for AW22 at Spring Fair.

Inset: Hippychick will be launching new weaning lines on its stand.

A New Year means lots of lovely new products for Hippychick and the company is looking forward to exhibiting them. Alex Molyneux, marketing manager, comments: “We are particularly excited about some exclusive new weaning lines and a back to school range, which is a brand new age group for Hippychick.” The company is excited to see existing customers and new faces at the show. Alex continues: “The Hippychick plan for Spring Fair is always to create a fun and welcoming space where everyone can just chat to our passionate team while seeing our products first hand. Watching Mike ride a Trybike is always a bonus too…”

The Puppet Company & Wilberry Toys – Hall 5, Stand G10-H11

The Puppet Company & Wilberry Toys’ stand will feature a touch of enchanted garden magic and a professional actor and puppeteer to bring some of its products to life. There will be a number of new products including the Eco ranges made from 100% recycled plastic bottles - the Eco Walking Puppets which have just launched, and the Eco Wilberry Cuddlies soft toys. There will be a new addition to the Wilberry Minis soft toys collection, including wild animals and new Christmas designs, new Monster puppets, giant Knitted Dinosaurs and more. Sue Lockey, owner and director says: “Spring Fair is one of our favourite shows - we’ve been attending both Autumn and Spring Fair as buyers for 21 years and as exhibitors for 19 years – and can’t wait to touch base with people again. Our customers have been incredibly supportive this year in particular, and we are really looking forward to seeing them in person and showing some of our new products.”

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NEW PRODUCTS

SPRING FAIR 2022 GREAT GIZMOS Great Gizmos is a leading provider of award-winning fun, creative and innovative toys for kids of all ages including its world renowned educational science, activity and craft kits. It also has a selection of pedal cars and ride ons, bath toys, children’s gifts, games, plush backpacks, nursery products, pocket money items and much, much more! Tel: 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk

JURATOYS

INSIDE OUT TOYS

Kaloo is delighted to offer the perfect gift to create precious memories – the totally charming animal rockers. Available in two options; a delightful donkey and cuddly bear, these ride ons will make a truly special present. The ideal gift for little ones starting to find their feet, the super soft rockers include a cushioned seat and wooden handlebars to keep little ones safe during play. Tel: 0208 8782133 www.kaloo.com Stand 5G30

Offering a wide range of brands including Jumini, Viking Toys and Tikiri, Inside Out Toys is a family owned and run business. It recognises the desire for sustainable toys, produced by ethically and socially responsible manufacturers and the brands it offers reflect those values. Tel: 01908 969969 www.insideouttoys.co.uk Stand 5H20

BIGJIGS TOYS Makedo is a cardboard construction kit that allows youngsters to make open-ended cardboard designs, whilst also developing their problemsolving and critical thinking skills. One of several product ranges available from Bigjigs Toys. Tel: 01303 212691 www.bigjigstoys.co.uk Stand 5G02

THE PUPPET COMPANY The Puppet Company and sister company Wilberry Toys are delighted to introduce a number of new puppets and soft toys for 2022 including the new Eco Wilberry Cuddlies soft toys. They are beautifully made, super soft and very cuddly. Competitively priced and very collectable, the range perfectly complements its extensive existing preschool offering, helping children to play, engage and have fun. Tel: 01462 446040 www.thepuppetcompany.com Stand 5G10-H11

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Above: Isabella recently gifted ten Little Tikes Travellers to Great Ormond Street Hospital. Below: Simon and Isabella King run Ideas International together… “He’s my role model,” says Isabella.

BRIGHT

IDEAS

Launching a travel product just before a global pandemic wouldn’t be an ideal situation for anyone. But it was where Ideas International found itself at the beginning of 2020. Anyone who has met Isabella King, brand development manager at the company, though, will tell you it would take far more than that to bring her down. PPS finds out more about the journey so far.

sabella King has grown up in the world of licensing. Her father, Simon King, ran Custom Accessories Europe, and was behind the Jelly Bean car air fresheners, among many other household licensed products. Isabella, brand development manager at Ideas International says: “My dad is in licensing, so osmosis has definitely given me the knowledge. I think my sister and I knew what FOB was at the age of seven. “I’m so proud of my dad, he’s a really great guy, he’s Right: Ideas International has # orders from big retailers for next year, including Tesco.

humble and always very helpful. It’s so nice to be in the same industry to carry on his legacy.” When Simon was in a meeting with MGA Entertainment he had no idea it would be the start of the father/daughter duo working together and creating Ideas International. Isabella explains: “Dad was looking to do some licensing with MGA, and made a joke with them asking where their ride-on case was, because I’d said it to him previously. It was said as a joke and it has transpired into this. “We put the idea together originally through my dad’s company, but he sold that around three years ago to Energiser. So he spun it off into

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THE BIG INTERVIEW Ideas International, and MGA really went for it.” At the time, Isabella was working in Switzerland. She continues: “I was really invested in the company, so I was nannying, I was doing my law degree and I was running the company. In the end, I had to give up the kids, which was so sad. I really wished I could do all of it, but I can’t.” The Little Tikes Traveller – a ride-on case based on MGA Entertainment’s iconic Cosy Coupe design – was launched officially at Spring Fair 2020. Isabella tells PPS: “We were doing really quite well, and we’d had our first order for Smyths come through. We got that in, and then COVID. It was awful. “So last year, I had to rebrand the entire concept as a lifestyle product instead of travel. So when we won the Best Kids Lifestyle Range Award [at the Progressive Preschool Awards], it was great.” Isabella now works between Switzerland and London, which has been beneficial during Brexit. She furthers: “After Brexit, it made it so much easier to work within Europe. A lot of the buyers here are much more open to a call, because I have a Swiss phone number. I’ve found they’re much more proactive within the EU.” As well as the difficulties of Brexit, Ideas International has, like many, struggled with freight issues. Isabella explains: “It’s been really tough. Containers have more than quadrupled in price. It used to be $2-3 per unit for our product, and it’s now $20. I spoke to my dad and said now is not the time to be pushing product, we need to sit back, market it for a relaunch and come back to it in spring 2022. If we sent them out now, we’d be making a loss.” There’s been other bumps along the road, as Isabella outlines: “There were so many things that I didn’t expect to come up against. For example people had surplus stock from competitors, because obviously they weren’t selling, so the retailers didn’t have space.” Isabella’s track record, however, shows that challenges don’t stop her. A near death experience while travelling in Australia gave her the clarity to forge ahead. She remembers: “I made myself a promise that if I came out of hospital, not only to make something of my life, but also to give back.

“So now, I’m here running this, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to give back. I want to do scholarship programmes and give to charity. I came back and instead of just trying to be successful at absolutely everything I was trying to do, I took a step back, focused on myself and re-evaluated. And everything started to work. What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.” Getting stronger is exactly what it looks like the future is for Ideas International. Currently offering one product, there are many more plans to develop lines in different sectors and with new licensors. Isabella comments: “We’ve got quite a lot of projects going forward into next year. I think it’s going to be the start of something really great. There will definitely be more work with MGA. I think they are a brilliant company. “We have the travel sector and we are definitely going to continue with this, but we also have a new product which we think will be a completely new section in licensing. I have everything ready to go in early January. Ideas International is not just one product in one industry, it’s not just travel or lifestyle, it’s Ideas International. So we are going to expand on a much broader spectrum with our own products, which we can also licence out.”

Above: At the age of eight, Isabella used to dream about accepting an award in business. Left: Isabella had to give up her nannying job to focus on the company, but still sees the children a lot. Below: Isabella as a toddler with her very own Cosy Coupe.

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UNFORGETTABLE . UNRIVALLED . UNMISSABLE

30-31 JANUARY 2022 Discover leading brands and curated ranges at INDX Kidswear. Plus, don’t miss the launch of INDX Toys & Nursery (formerly The Independent Toy & Gift Show). We look forward to welcoming you to both shows.

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W RONOW TETREN S I G S E I R REGre Click

Where the industry unites For exhibitor enquiries visit www.indxshows.co.uk or email info@indxshows.co.uk Cranmore Park Conference and Event Centre, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4LF

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EVENT FOCUS

BEST

Inset: The show has evolved into the go-to buying event for babywear and childrenswear stockists, attracting hundreds of buyers and retailers each season. Above left: Varsha Chohan, organiser, INDX Kidswear.

DRESSED

lanning is well underway for the next edition of INDX Kidswear, with the childrenswear industry’s national trade show set to return to Cranmore Park exhibition centre in Solihull on 30-31 January 2022. Since launching in 2014, INDX Kidswear has evolved to become the go-to buying event for babywear and childrenswear stockists and, each season, the show continues to attract hundreds of buyers and retailers from across the UK and Ireland. Delivering an unrivalled selection

INDX KIDSWEAR: NEED TO KNOW When: Sunday 30 January 2022, 9am-6pm and Monday 31 January 2022, 9am-4pm. Where: Cranmore Park Conference & Event Centre, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4LF Who: Over 120 brands have so far confirmed attendance across the apparel, footwear, formal attire and accessories categories. A full list of exhibitors can be found here: www. indxshows.co.uk/indx-fashion/kidswear/ exhibitors Website: www.indxshows.co.uk Visitors can pre-register online here: www.indxshows.co.uk/indx-fashion/ kidswear/registration

The next edition of INDX Kidswear is due to take place on 30-31 January, with over 120 brands covering apparel, footwear, formal attire and accessories from newborn upwards heading to Cranmore Park in Solihull. PPS finds out more. entrance badges by visiting the INDX website – www.indxshows.co.uk. “We look forward to welcoming back the childrenswear community for what looks set to be an exciting and inspiring show,” comments Varsha Chohan, organiser of INDX Kidswear. “As always, the comfort and wellbeing of all our attendees and exhibitors is our priority and we therefore ask that visitors be prepared to prove their Covid-19 status on arrival and refer to our website for further information.”

of market-leading brands, the January 2022 showcase will provide an unmissable opportunity for retailers to view an extensive and inclusive mix of product ranges from an inspiring selection of exhibitors, while enjoying the friendly and informal environment that the show is famed for. Covering apparel, footwear, formal attire and accessories, from newborn to teen, over 120 brands have so Below (clockwise l to r): Eddy Kids, Lilly and Sid and Sevva will be among the exhibitors at the show. far confirmed their attendance at the next show, and the exhibitor line-up spotlights key returning suppliers in addition to featuring a host of debuts. Companies confirmed to take part in the show include the likes of All About Emma, Angel’s Face, BabyGi, Bam Bam, Bambolina, BIBS, Blues Baby, Cheeky Chimp, Early Days, Eddy Kids, Etta Loves, First Baby, Freckles & Daisies, Lilly and Sid, Little Star, Magnolia Baby, My Little Chick, Nursery Time, Sevva, Snuggle Baby, Tiny Baby and William Lamb to name just a few. The largest childrenswear trade event in the UK, INDX Kidswear offers a unique, business and buyer focused format, including free onsite parking and complementary refreshments. Open to all retailers, visitors can register for their free

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NEW PRODUCTS

APPAREL MITCH & CO A cool and fresh boys brand for babies aged one month, up to six years Mitch & Co offers a carefully selected colour palette. This brand is always right on trend for youngsters needing fun, but practical clothing. One of four brands available from Picture Book Fashion. Tel: 01355 222532 www.picturebookfashion.com

LITTLE A

POCO NIDO

Little A is a beautiful baby brand for little ones from newborn up to three years. It offers one of a kind prints and a beautiful colour palette. This brand has a stunning selection of outfits for little girls. One of four brands available from Picture Book Fashion. Tel: 01355 222532 www.picturebookfashion.com

The new Rainforest collection from Poco Nido offers a wide variety of unisex barefoot friendly footwear options, with its iconic flare for the utterly unique! Hop into space with an astronaut hippo, slither through the jungle with hissing snakes or soar through the treetops with the macaws. The Mini Shoes feature genius pull-on stay-on technology and an innovative barefoot friendly suede sole which offers an enhanced grip and flexibility. Email: hello@poconido.com www.poconido.com

ICKLE BUBBA Welcome that new arrival with Ickle Bubba’s Knitted Gift Set. The threepiece set includes a super soft 100% cotton romper with popper fastening and a coordinating hat with 3D bear ears. It also comes with a cuddle llama toy - a perfect first companion. The romper includes popper fastening for quick changes. Tel: 01554 707022 www.icklebubba.com

BLADE & ROSE Penguin Ventures is delighted to announce a new apparel collaboration with Blade & Rose. The Peter Rabbit collection features five distinct designs - Veg Patch, Playtime, Floral, Classic and Festive which all take inspiration from Beatrix Potter’s Lake District, where Blade & Rose are based. Each set includes a long-sleeved top, matching leggings and socks for babies and children aged up to four years and are designed with comfort and longevity in mind. Tel: 01539 730880 www.bladeandrose.co.uk

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EXECUTIVE PROFILE

Phil Cassidy, md at Casdon, talks growing the business during a pandemic, the need for traditional role-play toys and having toy making in his DNA. Phil Cassidy.

“ALTHOUGH WE MIGHT BE SMALL, WE ARE MIGHTY” HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT CASDON? I joined the business in 2005 (16 years ago), however I’m third generation Cassidy brother. Casdon Toys was set up by my grandfather back in 1946 - we’ve been a family of toymakers ever since so I guess you could say it’s in my DNA.

trend for traditional role-play toys (especially those that encourage imaginative play). Casdon was built on my grandfather’s belief that toys should not only be fun, but that they should play a part in a child’s learning and development, too. This belief is still very much at the heart of everything we do at Casdon today and for the future. WHAT'S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT AT THE COMPANY?

This is a simple one and advice I have used a lot this past year: take a deep breath, stop and think more before doing.

I'd have to say, growing the team from 18 to 38 during the pandemic. When most people were trimming down, we managed to grow which is something I’m exceptionally proud of - both on a personal and professional level.

BIGGEST LESSON YOU'VE TAKEN AWAY FROM THE PAST YEAR?

FAVOURITE PART OF YOUR JOB? Without sounding completely cliché, it’s the people. Hiring and building an incredible team and then watching all the amazing ideas they bring to life is so rewarding.

Same as above, to slow down, take a breath and think more before actioning anything.

“ Everyone has a really

important part to play in the success of our business.”

WHO IS THE UNSUNG HERO IN YOUR COMPANY? It’s a real team effort here at Casdon. Although we might be small, we are mighty and as a company we recognise all the great work which is achieved across every individual, team and department. Everyone has a really important part to play in the success of our business. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHANGE WITHIN THE PRESCHOOL INDUSTRY THAT YOU HAVE SEEN SINCE YOU HAVE WORKED IN IT? Despite the growth in children’s preschool licensing dominating the toy space, there is still an upwards

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT THE PRESCHOOL BUSINESS, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY? This is a tough one - as the market is ever changing and expanding it's hard to pinpoint what could change as it's such a moving target. I can tell you that I'm most encouraged that with all the growth within the preschool space there is still a need for the more traditional role-play toys.

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AWARD WINNING DIGITAL MARKETING EXPERTS Specialising in the nursery industry

Come visit us at London Toy Fair

Available from bébélephant info@bebelephant.com | 020 8202 1467

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sic

The sound of your voice means a sounder, deeper sleep, and a stronger, deeper bond – for both you and your baby.

puz z

toddler

les

Meet Jaspar the Dreamy Elephant. He’s the UK’s first baby bonding and attachment companion which lets you record your own voice. As a new parent, you’ll know that hearing your voice builds the bond between you and your baby like nothing else. There’s nothing that comforts your baby the same way. We often imagine that newborn babies need peace and quiet to fall asleep. In fact, babies feel happier and more comforted if they’re surrounded by gentle sounds, especially ones that ‘mimic’ sounds they experienced constantly in the womb.

infant &

Stand E16

o ry

Welcome to our fresh new look, full of the fun and excitement of childhood – We hope it makes you smile!

Leading the way in pre-school play. t: 01254 872454 e: sales@halilit.co.uk Childhood is magical

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65 NEW PRODUCTS

WHAT’S NEW CYBEX Cybex has introduced the Anoris T i-Size – the first forward-facing car seat with integrated airbag. Thanks to its integrated airbag technology, research shows that the forward-facing Anoris seat offers approximately 50% more protection than conventional forward-facing seats and is at least as safe as rear-facing car seats. The Anoris T i-Size also offers more comfort, legroom and easy entry into the seat, while also being simple to install. Tel: 0207 4264938 www.cybex-online.com

BÉBÉLEPHANT

JOIE

Kiddiwhizz, manufacturer of the Whizzer – the first handheld unisex toilet for kids, has appointed bébélephant as its UK distributor. The Whizzer was launched in 2021 and has already proved to be a great success, with major stores including Robert Dyas set to stock the product. Tel: 0208 2021467 www.bebelephant.com

Joie is proud to announce its newest arrival, the i-Spin Grow, that has made its grand entrance by scooping a Gold award at the 2022 Mother & Baby Awards. Growing passengers will be set for every journey from that first trip home from the hospital to the very first day at school, along with every important milestone in between and beyond. The easy to use, onehand 360 degrees spin, turns to the parent to make buckling in even easier than ever. Tel: 01889 808900 www.joiebaby.com

BÉBÉLEPHANT This stunning range of plush soft toys from Paris based, world renowned Doudou et Compagnie are sure to be loved by all. Each product comes beautifully presented in its own, high quality coordinating gift box. There is a full range of products suitable for boys and girls alike. Available from bébélephant. Tel: 0208 2021467 www.bebelephant.com

BEABA The Dry ‘n’ Snack food dehydrator is the new, must-have piece of kitchen equipment, from innovative parenting brand Béaba. It’s perfect for busy parents who want to make fuss-free batches of healthy, inexpensive dehydrated purees, yoghurts and snacks for the whole family at home, whilst saving both time and money. This indispensable product will become the go-to gadget for making everything from ground fruit to mix with water or to add to porridge as well as strawberry flakes and vegetable crisps. Email: natalie.jackson@beaba.com www.beaba.com

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11/01/2022 15:04

Celebrating 120 years with Beautiful new Wooden Toys

Visit us at London Toy Fair, Stand B21

All wood is FSC certified

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NEW PRODUCTS

WHAT’S NEW

EDUK8

As exclusive UK distributor for the Mark Makers range, eduk8 will be showcasing the activity and story books, which are an introduction to a fun pre-writing programme featuring characters Lionel, Archie, Ziggy and Swirlo, who help children develop writing skills through making basic marks. Children aged five months to five years are encouraged to make their mark through play, and Author Rachel Fay will be popping onto the Eduk8 stand during London Toy Fair. Tel: 01661 831080 www.eduk8worldwide.com

THE SINGING ANT

MUSLINZ

The Singing Ant team are thrilled to introduce the Hygge collection, a new range in its high quality playmat options.. Further building on the innovative and unisex playmats, the new collection incorporates The Singing Ant’s eye for Scandinavian inspired style, whilst not forgetting the all-important practicalities needed for play. Capturing the essence of the modern nursery, the brand new quilted, earth-toned collection promises maximum comfort, with the bonus of a low allergy risk, vegan leather wipe clean surface. Email: post@thesingingant.com www.thesingingant.com

Manufactured by MerryGoRound, MuslinZ offer quality, value and a great range of products. These high quality muslins for little ones are reusable, ethical and sustainable. The team take great care to work sustainably and ethically both at its UK base and at the factories it utilises in Pakistan. It uses organic cotton fabrics which are made with GOTS certified thread. New designs are released regularly throughout the year. Tel: 01295 810008 www.muslinz.com

JANOD Janod’s Doctor’s Suitcase is sure to spark the light in any child’s imagination and inspire the doctor in any little one. Featuring ten wooden instruments – a syringe, reflex hammer, disinfectant, stethoscope, otoscope, thermometer, tongue depressor plus a prescription notebook, pencil and bandage roll, this extensive kit has got everything kids could possibly need to play doctors and patients and nurture their caring side. Tel: 0208 8782133 www.janod.com

WILBERRY TOYS The new giant versions of the popular Wilberry Knitted Dinosaurs have the real wow factor -incredible large T-Rex, Stegosaurus and Triceratops that are sure to put big smiles on lots of faces! Arriving in the Spring in both double and triple the size of the existing styles, these create amazing displays and family groups in gender neutral colours and are very exciting new additions for the preschool space. Tel: 01462 446040 www.wilberrytoys.com

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11/01/2022 15:05

Partnered with

Toys The Dedicated Marketplace For all things fun!

Costumes

Partyware

The ultimate online destination for all your Toy, Party and Fun needs. We aim to carry the largest portfolio of costumes, partyware, Toys, Games and Merch from leading brands all over Europe.

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RETAILER REVELATIONS

TOP SELLERS

“The best selling products of all time are those lovingly hand made by local artisans, who have amazing stories and create timeless toys. For example toys by the late Derek Orme, a gentleman in his 80s who hand crafted beautiful, timeless, keepsake toys from left over wood from building projects. “As for best selling toys at the moment, it has to be books – I have such a huge selection of diverse and interesting books that are usually quite hard to find. These have been super sellers over the Christmas period.”

SMALL STUFF

IN NUMBERS

Offering a unique retail experience to parents and carers in store and online, Small Stuff prides itself on showcasing products from carefully selected suppliers which match its sustainable values. The retailer has been offering gifts, books and educational aids for children from birth through to seven years old since opening as a pop-up in 2016.

OLD AND NEW FRIENDS

“My longest supplier is Wee Gallery, they supply the most wonderful black and white, beautifully made (and ethical) baby treats; from art cards through to swaddle blankets. They’ve been with Small Stuff since the beginning. The newest supplier is Janod and wow, their products have been a huge hit too. High quality wooden toys in brilliant packaging – truly brilliant.”

WHAT’S HOT

“Old fashioned style toys are really popular – spinning tops, skipping ropes, yoyos etc.”

“It’s not always been obvious how to prepare [for the changes due to the pandemic] – however by putting in the work early on, spending days and nights revamping the website, and changing the business model to replicate the care, attention and experience we give in store – online has absolutely pulled us through. “We now offer so many shipping options, collect in-store, free gift wrapping and gift message options as well as zoom customer appointments and really utilising social media channels.”

MY HERO!

Inset: Owner Hellen shares the ups and downs of her story as a shop owner on social media and says her customers really appreciate it. Above: Small Stuff offers a range of gifts, books and educational aids, all ethically sourced.

• “ We have two and a half in our team – me, my wonderful assistant and organiser, Lizzie, and the chief toy tester, Rafe – my son who’s five.” • “ The average spend per customer is £30-50 on average.” • “ The last delivery was a huge restock, so a good five boxes.” • “ I refresh the window display a lot. I love the creative aspects of running a shop, so I’m almost swapping it up weekly.” • “ The shop is a lot bigger than you would think. Even though we’re Small Stuff, we’re 15 grizzly bears squared.” Below: Small Stuff is a proud holder of Planet Mark.

Store owner Hellen Stirling-Baker has one stand out hero product: “It has to be the Ollie Ella Dinkum Dolls collection. They fly off the shelves. A brilliant BCorp brand, their dolls and outfits and accessories make wonderful friends for children of all ages.”

Above: Hellen offers books that are a little more unusual and difficult to find in her store.

SHOP LOCAL

POWER OF SOCIAL Above: Traditional toys have done well in the store over the past few years.

ONLINE SERVICE

“Almost 70% of my online sales come through my social media channels. Customers buy in to people’s stories and journeys, especially at the moment and keeping it real (especially as a working parent) seems to resonate with a lot of my followers.”

“This year has been incredible, the amount of conversations I’ve had with my customers about shopping small and even customers telling me they’d chose to support me even when the big online retailers were often cheaper or could get it to them quicker.”

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Gary Leadston

in store April 2022 Me to You and Tiny Tatty Teddy gifting range

now available to order.

It’s easy to order: Via your Business Development Representative, our Customer Services team on 01243 792600 or online at cbgtrader.co.uk www.cbgtrader.co.uk

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@CarteBlancheGrp

(Cyan) (Magenta) (Yellow) (BlacK)

@carteblanchegrp @carteblanchegrp

10/01/2022 19:45

Progressive Preschool January/February 2022

Articles inside

Retailer in Numbers

Event Focus: INDX Kidswear

Executive Profile

The Big Interview: Ideas International

Progressive Preschool Awards 2021 The winners

Event Focus: Spielwarenmesse 2022

Parents Insights

Guest Columnist

Event Focus: Spring Fair

Event Focus: Toy Fair 2022

Sector Focus: Travel Systems

Indie accolades