Progressive Preschool October 2024

THIS MONTH

Welcome to the October edition of Progressive Preschool – and also welcome to the all-important golden quarter of the year. It’s also Harrogate International Nursery Fair month, and there is a definite buzz of excitement in the air from the exhibitors, visitors and the show organisers as to what’s to come.

www.max-publishing.co.uk

new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

CYBEX and Joie, all of which are bringing new innovation to their rosters, it’s set to be a very busy three days indeed in Harrogate.

Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash will land directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry. A modern, easy to navigate website will provide a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

In this edition, we’ve delved into what a number of the companies on the show floor – which includes a healthy number of first timers – will be highlighting, and we couldn’t help but be impressed with the innovation, enthusiasm and endeavour on display.

From newcomers to the Fair such as toy companies Ravensburger, Plus Plus, Plum Play, Little Hoppa, DKB Toys and SQUEEK, through to the likes of Trixie which has been steadily building its presence in the UK over the past 12 months, and established names including Maxi-Cosi,

Also in this issue, we discover more on RKW’s plans for the popular Chicco brand, as well as celebrating key anniversaries with both Babystyle and Hippychick. Within the apparel category, Blues Group talks us through the launch of its new dress up division, while we shine a spotlight on the year-round sales potential of the games and puzzles and educational toy sectors.

Both of these categories are citing sustainability as one of the

Below: The Progressive Preschool Awards 2024 will return to the Royal Lancaster Hotel on Tuesday 12 November.

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

ISSN 2515-8570

Copyright 2024. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers. ADVERTISING AND

growing factors that is influencing parents’ purchasing decisions. If your company is looking to understand more about how you can make changes and the key legislation coming up which will have an impact on the industry, the Products of Change Conference (6 November at the Royal Geographical Society) is well worth a look.

Meanwhile, here at Progressive Preschool, we are putting the building blocks in place for the Progressive Preschool Awards, which are celebrating 12 joyous years in November. The Product and Marketing finalists have been revealed, with the prestigious Retail and Wholesaler/Distributor shortlists following imminently, so stayed tuned to PreschoolNews. net. We can’t wait to celebrate another year of achievements with you on Tuesday 12 November. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in Harrogate.

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers.

P r e s c h o o l N e w s . n e t is published by preschool sector experts, for preschool trade experts.

The Progressive Preschool Team Samantha Loveday, Rob Willis, Katie Roberts-Mason and Jo Cassidy.

Above: This issue of Progressive Preschool covers everything from Harrogate International Nursery Fair, through to sustainability, games and puzzles and educational toys.

Exhibition space for Toy Fair 2025 is sold

out

The BTHA has confirmed that all exhibition space for Toy Fair 2025 has sold out, several months before the show is due to take place.

Toy Fair – the UK’s largest dedicated toy, game and hobby trade show – is set to welcome more than 250 exhibiting companies, both returning and new, to Olympia Events in London, from the 21-23 January 2025.

The show will take place across both lower and

The Entertainer sets sights on international expansion

The Entertainer has confirmed a renewed strategic focus on international expansion and a corresponding change of responsibilities among its top team.

The Group, as a whole, is in a period of significant growth as all three brands benefit from the enlarged reach across the UK and Europe.

While further UK growth remains a focus – and new commercial partnerships will be announced imminently - the senior team is, for the first time since the pandemic, turning its attention to growing the company’s international presence beyond the current 200 franchise stores across 21 countries.

Alongside the continuation of franchise-based growth across both existing and new international territories, the company

upper levels of the Grand and National Halls, as well as part of the Upper West Hall.

The BTHA is now operating a waiting list for

has significant plans to scale by replicating the concession model successfully deployed in the UK through Tesco, Matalan and M&S.

To lead this growth phase, a Group Executive Committee is being established to lead and manage the group as a single, integrated entity.

As part of these changes, Geoff Sheffield will become commercial director, international to lead all commercial aspects of the international retail strategy and its execution.

The new role of chief product officer is being introduced, bringing together the functions of buying, merchandising and marketing, with Brian Proctor taking on this role. Brian brings a wealth of retail buying and trading experience, most notably through various directorships of TJX Europe (TK Maxx).

Above: Toy Fair returns to London’s Olympia Events from 21-23 January 2025.

Below: The Entertainer will look to grow its international presence beyond the current 200 franchise stores across 21 countries.

companies still looking for space. Companies wanting to join the list should visit www.toyfair.co.uk.

This year’s Toy Fair will see the return of companies including Spin Master Toys, Big Potato Games, The LEGO Group, Gibsons, Golden Bear, Alley Cat Games, Curious Universe, Iron Studios, Character Options Ltd and Marvin’s Magic, along with some new exhibitors such as Little Dutch, Small World Toys, Target Darts and Puzzle Post UK among others.

Additionally, Toy Fair TV will be back to highlight the wide range of innovative products on display, including plush toys, games, puzzles, tech toys, construction sets and more, via stand visits and the live stream which will be broadcast on various screens around the show and on the Toy Fair website.

“It’s incredible to be sold out once again with so many months still to go,” commented Majen Immink, head of Toy Fair. “We look forward to assisting our exhibitors with their preparations over the coming months and to putting on the best platform we can for the industry.”

For more information about joining the waiting list, please contact Rebecca DeemingMitchell at rebecca@btha.co.uk.

3D tech specialist ARkid teams with the BPIA

ARkid, a 3D technology company for the baby products industry, has joined the BPIA.

The BPIA has welcomed ARkid Studio as an associate member – a partnership which offers members a 25% discount off the latest in 3D technology.

In addition to this, the winner of the Best New Product category at this year’s BPIA Baby and Nursery Trade Awards will receive a free 3D and Augmented Reality for the product, courtesy of ARkid.

ARkid Studio offers ARkid Catalogue - product visualisation software tailored for brands and retailers in the industry. The tool

effortlessly creates 3D and augmented reality viewers, product photos and videos with just a few clicks. The web-based software generates web-optimised 3D configurators, 360-degree turntable videos and 3D product renderings.

Julie Milne, general manager of the BPIA, said:

“We are delighted that ARkid is offering this fabulous prize. The Best New Product Category of the BANTAs is probably the most prestigious, because it recognises innovation within the industry and is often the product which the judges consider to be the best at the show.”

Juratoys secures Mamas & Papas partnership

Juratoys is continuing to grow its portfolio, as it secures a new retail agreement for its wooden toy brand, Janod, with key nursery retailer, Mamas and Papas.

The new partnership will see a collection of 11 of Janod’s products available online and in 20 Mamas and Papas stores, as well as within the brands concessions in two flagship M&S stores and Next outlets across the UK.

The collection includes a mix of classic wooden toys, including the award-winning Dino Activity Table, educational toys, bestselling Janod bath products and a new range of gift boxes ideal for babies first birthday and beyond.

Neil Montgomery, UK commercial director at Juratoys, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Mamas and Papas and feel this is a perfect fit for our wonderful brand Janod. We are confident that our collection will be just what parents are looking for in the lead up to Christmas, with so many wonderful toys to choose from across the Janod range both in stores and online.”

Above: A range of Janod’s products will be available online and in 20 Mamas and Papas stores.

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The LEGO Group, Funko, Keel Toys Limited, Vivid Goliath, Jazwares, Puzzle Post, Hippychick, plus many more!

TOP STORY

Trixie relaunches its Baby Essentials range

Trixie will be using the Harrogate International Nursery Fair as a key platform to showcase its newly relaunched Baby Essentials range.

Trixie has introduced its popular animal friends in fresh new colours and playful designs. The collection has been reimagined with ontrend tones and unique prints, with products including everyday essentials for key moments in a baby’s day, from mealtime to bathtime, bedtime and on-the-go.

The company has updated popular items such as towels, bibs and feeding accessories, and expanded the range with new soft toys to nurture imagination and comfort. Next to the new baby essentials range and soft toys, Trixie will also launch nightlights and bath

books featuring its animal friends.

“We really wanted to expand the power of our animal friends towards our nursery collections as well,” said Scott GarnerbundyHiggs, UK sales director at Trixie. “Parents today want products that are both functional and fun, while being mindful of safety, sustainability, and style. Our relaunched range reflects these priorities. It offers an even better connection between our brand’s playfulness and the everyday moments of babyhood, ensuring that each piece provides both comfort and joy as babies explore the world around them.”

Scott describes the upcoming Nursery Fair as a “key opportunity”

Little Brother Books unveils new annual format

Leading UK publisher of children’s annuals and seasonal titles, Little Brother Books is launching two new annuals which it says is perfect for the preschool sector.

The My First Annual 2025 format features popular preschool brands Bing and CoComelon. The A4 board book format includes an easy cut-out carry handle for little hands and features five double page spreads of fun learning and entertainment focused on the core characters from each brand.

Activities include My 1st A,B,C and 1, 2, 3, as well as My 1st Shapes and My 1st Colours. The books are

to demonstrate the range and how it can add value to stores. “This year’s show is crucial for Trixie because it’s the perfect platform to introduce our latest innovations to the UK market and reconnect with buyers face-to-face. The event allows us to share our passion for bringing infinite imagination to everyday moments, and we can’t wait for attendees to experience our new launches first hand,” Scott concluded.

priced at £9.99 and will be available at retail from October.

“Annuals are a very important part of Christmas stocking filler purchases and the significant volumes we, and our partner retailers, sell each year, shows families love to buy them as gifts over the festive period,” commented Matthew Reynolds, md at Little Brother Books. “We are proud to be the UK’s leading annuals publisher and launching this new format into annuals to now make them perfect for preschoolers further reinforces us as the market leader and the one-stop shop for annuals for the whole family.”

Below: The range includes everyday essentials for key moments in a baby’s day, from mealtime to bathtime, bedtime and on-the-go.

Below: Bing and CoComelon star in the new My First Annual format.

TOP STORY

M&S launches first ever baby club

M&S has launched its first ever baby club – the parent hood – exclusive to members of its loyalty programme, Sparks.

The UK baby 0-2 clothing market is worth almost £900 million each year and, with M&S holding a 6% share in kidswear and sustained market share growth in areas including newborn, the retailer has identified ‘baby’ as a key enabler to unlock further growth. Free to join, the club offers members the opportunity to save up to £250 each year.

The retailer’s renewed focus on baby – which has included giving the baby category a stronger presence in-store through improved signage and greater space – has already driven double digit sales

growth in the category in 23/24. M&S now sells more than 1.1 million baby grows every year.

The club will bring together ‘value, recognition, inspiration and advice’, as well as sense of community, according to M&S, with access to exclusive offers from across the retailer – from clothing and beauty through to food.

“With our growing style credentials and a presence in so many communities, there is so much opportunity to grow our market share through appealing to new customers

Online4Baby rebrands as The Nursery Store

Family-owned nursery e-commerce business, Online4Baby has rebranded to The Nursery Store (www.thenurserystore.com).

Online4Baby was launched by sisters Christy Foster and Cheryl Blayds in 1987. The business had its self-funded beginnings on a market stall in Salford,

before moving online to eBay, where Christy and Cheryl became the first UK-based female eBay millionaires. Today, the business has a 40+ strong workforce, while revenue in the first half of 2024 was up 25% compared to last year and the annual income has reached £40 million. It’s still familyowned, with Christy, Cheryl and their husbands, Darren and Warren, actively running the day-to-day operations.

“Family will always remain at the core of our business,” said Christy, ceo at The Nursery Store. “The rebranding to The Nursery Store

and introducing existing customers to more of what we have to offer,” said Alexandra Dimitriu, director of kidswear at M&S. “As a mum, I’m incredibly excited to be launching M&S’ first baby club - the proposition we’ve created by remaining laserfocused on what baby – and parents - need, when they need it, is something I wish I had access to when I was a member of the 2am club.”

will allow us to continue providing families with accessible pricing on a wide range of high-quality products that make their lives safer, more enjoyable, and stress-free.

“This modernisation will provide an easier-than-ever shopping experience for them, and provide a solid foundation for us, our partners, both existing and new, to grow and thrive from.”

Chief marketing officer, Toby Gavin, added: “The rebrand is really about how we better convey our heritage and expertise to customers, to build longterm trust and credibility in the market. We’ve seen strong growth this year, and we’re excited to drive the business further and faster with this rebrand. This transformation is a strategic leap forward, and we’re really excited about the opportunities it unlocks.”

For the latest news visit PreschoolNews.net

Left: (L-R) Toby Gavin (cmo); Lee Cooper (cto); Roy Povey (cfo); Christy Foster (ceo and cofounder); Cheryl Blayds (director and co-founder); Colin Smith (coo); and Warren Blayds (director).

Above: M&S has identified the baby category as a key growth area.

23 Southernhay East, Exeter, Devon EX1 1QL

books@littlebrotherbooks.co.uk www.littlebrotherbooks.co.uk

NielsenIQ GfK’s Emma Wade updates us on Baby Care market performance and discusses how baby feed trends are developing.

BABY FEEDING: A CHANGING MARKET

As the year progresses, the Total Baby Care market has seen little change. Value remains stable, up 2% year on year when comparing August 2023 to July 2024 to the same period 12 months earlier. While value growth remains positive, volume continues to decline, down 3% from August 2023 to July 2024. This reflects the drop in demand driven by the falling birth rate in England and Wales. Certain segments of the market such as Baby Bottles and Teats have significantly driven growth at a total Baby Care level, but this trend is not consistent across the rest of Baby Feeding.

THE LATEST PERFORMANCE IN BABY FEEDING

While sales of Baby Bottles and Teats have enjoyed strong growth in the last 12 months, not all segments within Baby Feeding have had the same experience. For instance, Breast Feeding continued to decline. Total Baby Bottles and Teats rose by 17% in value and 4% in pack volume between

August 2023 and July 2024 year on year. Total Breast Feeding was down 4% in value and volume over the same period. This was largely driven by Electric Breast Pumps, the largest value segment within Breast Feeding (47%). Electric Breast Pumps were down 6% in value and 9% in volume in the same period. Adding data from NielsenIQ (NIQ) gives us a total picture of the Baby Feeding market. NIQ’s Scantrack Total Coverage data for the 12 months to 27 July 2024 shows a dip in sales of Baby Formula/ Milk. Sales were down 3% in value and 6% in pack volume versus the same period in 2023. This suggests that increases in bottle sales are not due to more people pumping or using formula/milk.

THE DRIVERS OF BABY BOTTLE AND TEAT GROWTH

A detailed examination of GfK’s data for Baby Bottles and Teats reveals some interesting trends. For example, all quantity pack sizes have seen value growth. However, it is not the same for volume. The only pack sizes to see an uptick are single bottles and two-

bottle packs. Volume sales of single bottles rose 20% while a pack of two was up 15%. Looking at the intended age for use, bottles for 0 to three months grew 38% in value and 26% in pack volume, and bottles for three to six months grew 29% in value and 19% in pack volume. Bottles and teats for infants over six months are in decline both by value and volume. We expect that the birth rate will continue to decline over the next few years before stabilising, so although growth in sales of bottles intended for the first few months would suggest an expected baby boom, it could be a result of consumers buying a greater quantity of bottles or replacing faulty products. This is partly supported by the NIQ ScanTrack data for Baby Formula/Milk which shows that sales of First Stage Baby Formula/Milk were down 5% in pack volume. If there were to be a baby boom, we might expect Baby Formula/Milk sales for First Stage to be in growth.

LOOKING AHEAD

21,000,000

20,000,000

18,000,000 19,000,000

22,000,000 Aug-Jul

We expect sales of bottles and teats to remain positive until the end of 2024. It is unclear whether this will continue into 2025, but sales may stabilise in 2025 before they start to decline in 2026, matching the trend in the rest of the market. With the birth rate predicted to continue dropping in England and Wales, we expect to see a continued decline in the Total Baby market, including segments like Breast Feeding which are already copying the birth rate trend.

If you want to discuss the Baby Care market, contact Emma at:

Fantastic Licenses

Gary Pope, ceo at Kids Industries, on the attitudes and behaviours of Gen Z and how they will likely impact their parenting style.

GEN Z – A LOT MORE THAN IT’S CRACKED UP TO BE

Hard times create strong people, strong people create good times, good times create weak people, and weak people create hard times.” I am paraphrasing, I’ve removed the gender bias, and whomever it was that actually said it remains unclear. Nonetheless, something to this effect has been said for years, and it’ll continue to be said because, well, it’s true.

Given where the world is right now, and what I do for a living, I’ve become a little fixated on how the next generation will clean up the mess we’ve made. So I have been thinking about the next generation of parents, Gen Z, as they are liberally called. Will I be blaming them? Or will they help us get out of the global toilet we seem to be swimming in?

Born between 1997 and 2012, the eldest of this demographic cohort are, for the moment at least, the parents of preschoolers. They are entrusted with ensuring our shared future and I wondered whether they are up to the job.

We can be very clear about some of the Gen Z attitudes and behaviours and how they will likely impact their parenting style. There’s a whole bunch of these factors to consider but we’ve not got all day, so for the purposes of this column, I figured I would pick the top five.

1.

THEY’RE

TECH-SAVVY AND DIGITALLY LITERATE

Gen Z grew up in a fully digital world - the epitome of Digital Native. 1997, the year of their first appearance, was

a doozy for technological marvels… Wi-Fi was invented, Bluetooth specification was introduced and the first social media website ‘Six Degrees’ was launched. Phillippe Kahn is credited with inventing the first camera phone and, somewhat prophetically, the first thing he shared was realtime pictures of his newborn Gen Z daughter. As the first truly digitally native generation of parents they are fully aware of the good and the bad of their children’s digital future. So that’s all seems quite positive then…

2. OPENNESS TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The Gen Z’er values diversity, inclusivity and acceptance, which should, in theory at least, make them more open-minded as parents. They are demonstrably more willing to teach their children about different cultures, identities and viewpoints from an early age and as any parent or educator knows, this is a powerful thing indeed and truly enhances development. So that bodes well. Two out of two.

3. MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Gen Z is more open to discussing mental health and wellness than any generation before. Yes, there is still a way to go, but these new parents are likely to be more attuned to signs of anxiety, stress, or other mental health concerns. And better still they will be building in resilience from a very young age for exactly that reason. Good again. Full house so far.

4.

PROGRESSIVE VALUES

The level of political and social engagement we see from Gen Z

and their clearly defined values that often lean toward equality, environmentalism and sustainability make for citizens who actually care. As parents, they will likely pass on these progressive values and pro-citizenship attitudes to their children; promoting activism and social responsibility from an early age. Bloody marvellous as far as I am concerned.

5.

FOCUS ON EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING

The value Gen Z places on continuous learning and self-improvement is a super-power in my book. They are likely to prioritise education for their children and seek out innovative and personalized ways of teaching and learning - there’s a reason there’s a boom in STEM toys. Smashing. Five out of five. Get in.

Five big Gen Z factors all pointing to positive parenting. To be honest, this came as a bit of a surprise, because there is an unsubstantiated but nonetheless credible notion that Gen Z can be a bit, well, selfish. And one thing parents can’t be is that. It really, really isn’t part of the job description. I’ve done a lot of thinking about this - not least because of I’ve got two Zees of my own. And, on balance, I think what they are is that most recent of dispositions ‘intentional’. In a world that is more confused, complicated and challenging than the one I was born into, I don’t think that this is a bad thing.

I am hopeful that Gen Z are strong people who, because of their unique life experiences, enable their kids to be strong too, and maybe if that happens, things might just sort themselves out.

Right: Gary Pope.

RKW is excited to be expanding into the baby and nursery industry. Renowned for its history of brand building, the company is proud to be the UK distributor of Chicco, adding the esteemed name to its existing portfolio of over 50 brands. PPS talks to Mike Acton, category sales director at RKW to find out more.

A NEW DAWN

As an established favourite in Italy and the US, RKW is confident that Chicco and its products will make waves in the UK market and the team is looking forward to having a hand in its journey.

For over 60 years, Chicco has been a leading name in the baby industry, earning its reputation through a parentcentred philosophy and a commitment to the highest safety standards.

Mike Acton, category sales director at RKW, says: “The brand offers comprehensive solutions that address the real needs of parents and caregivers. Chicco’s deep understanding of babies allows the brand to connect with today’s and tomorrow’s parents, speaking their language and always being there for them.”

With a wide range of products in its portfolio, Chicco’s approach is driven by study, observation,

innovation and research. This ensures that its products meet both the physical and emotional needs of parents and children.

Mike continues: “Chicco aligns perfectly with our values, putting the customer at the heart of everything it does while meeting strict quality standards. RKW’s mission is to provide customers with exceptional quality products that offer unbeatable value for money and to exceed expectations in both delivery and service.

“We are excited to continue this mission with our Chicco partnership and aim to leverage our expertise to circulate Chicco’s wide range of products.”

Chicco has always been known for innovation and RKW is honoured to assist in furthering this legacy. Through this collaboration, RKW’s expertise and Chicco’s parent and child-focused philosophy will bring growth and a new wave of innovation to the nursery industry. Let’s have a look at what Chicco has to offer…

Above: The Bellagio Travel System is the first trio stroller with a self-folding mechanism that works in both directions.

Right: Mike Acton, category sales director, RKW.

Right: The Chicco Baby Hug 5-in-1 can function as a crib, recliner, highchair, table chair and stand-alone crib.

A prime example of Chicco's innovation is its side-sleeping range. Chicco was the first to market with its side-sleeping solutions, including the popular Next2Me range. The latest addition, the Next2Me Twin System, is a co-sleeping crib designed for twins, allowing both babies to sleep side by side and close to their parents in a single crib. The crib features a see-through mesh divider that enables the twins to see each other, fostering bonding and aiding their development. This is the first of its kind and will be the perfect introduction to the UK baby and nursery space.

Another example of Chicco’s pioneering products is the Baby Hug 5-in-1. This is an evolution of the award-winning 4-in-1 model, but even better. The versatile product can function as a crib, recliner, highchair, table chair and stand-alone crib. Its multifunctionality makes it a spacesaving and cost-effective solution for new parents. The multi-functionality of the Baby Hug 5-in-1 demonstrates Chicco’s drive for parent-focused solutions and sets it apart from other baby and nursery brands.

Continuing to prove its understanding of parents and children’s needs, Chicco has also created a modular product that addresses these in its entirety; the Meraviglia. This is a versatile, multi-functional highchair designed to be a lifelong seating solution. It offers convenience right from the start - no assembly or tools are required and it comes with all accessories included, so removes the need for any additional purchases. One of its standout features is the foldable and self-standing design, allowing it to be easily stored when not in use.

Crafted from real wood, the Meraviglia highchair combines durability with style, making it both a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice for any space.

Taking innovation to outside the home, the Bellagio Travel System is a complete system which comes with a special stroller. With its one-touch folding system, it folds automatically and compactly, making everyday travel easier for everyone. As the first trio stroller with a self-folding mechanism that works in both directions, the modular stroller is designed to meet the needs of busy new parents and can be used in conjunction with the Flexi Carrycot and First Seat Recline Car Seat from birth.

At Chicco, things don’t just stop at practicality. There is also a collection of toys, ranging from indoor to outdoor use. One exciting addition to the toy range is the collaboration ranges with Vespa and Ducati.

Ducati, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, has teamed up with Chicco to bring out a three-product range. Designed to bring the thrill of riding to younger children, this includes

Left: Chicco was the first to market with its side-sleeping solutions with the

the Ducati Trike, Ducati Balance Bike and the Monster Ride-On. These products are built with both safety and fun in mind, perfect for encouraging early motor skills and confidence.

The Monster Ride-On and trike are suitable for children aged 18 months to five years. Both come equipped with stabilising support wheels that can be removed as the child’s riding skills improve, offering a safe experience for beginners and then more freedom for when they become more experienced. The Balance Bike is ideal for children aged two to five years, helping them develop balance and coordination in preparation for transitioning to pedal bikes.

The Vespa boasts similar features such as the removable support wheels and has lights and sounds to make the experience more realistic. Available in two colours, these are the perfect products to make the living room feel like the Italian roads.

With their iconic Vespa and Ducati designs, as well as a focus on safety, these ride-on products provide a fun and engaging way for children to start their riding adventure – in style.

Mike concludes: “This is just a selection of some of the products Chicco offers and is bringing to the UK market. As demonstrated by some of the products, the current product line contains something for all needs - from indoor and outdoor products, toys and even cosmetic products. With its extensive catalogue, coupled with its compassionate philosophy, Chicco along with RKW is sure to have a big impact on the baby industry.”

Right: The Next2Me Twin System is a co-sleeping crib designed for twins, allowing both babies to sleep side by side and close to their parents in a single crib.

Far right: Chicco offers a wide range of essentials that address the real needs of parents and caregivers.

Next2Me.

Inset: Educational toys is a growing category for hauck in the UK.

LOOK AND

LEARN

PPS chats to a number of companies which have perfected a mix of fun and learning in their products – appealing to both parents and preschoolers along the way.

Aquick look through the – sold out – floorplan for Toy Fair (21-23 January 2025) shows a wide range of companies which will be showcasing educational toys on their stands. From Bigjigs, Galt Toys and Learning Resources, through to Smart Toys, Toynamics, Plus Plus and VTech to name just a few, the show floor at Olympia will be a hive of companies ‘earning through learning’.

One such company will be Trends UK, with Graham Spark, UK sales director, telling PPS: “Educational toys need to be engaging and fun, so that preschoolers want to keep playing with

the toy. With licensed preschool toys, they need to be true to the licence with ‘real’ features i.e. the characters voices and molds, not just label slapped generic items. Parents and preschoolers want to hear and experience what they see on the show.”

Graham says that the past 12 months has proved “challenging” across its educational toys, reflecting the nervousness and uncertainty in the economy. “However, I believe we have maintained our share in the sector and may even be ahead

VTech’s Shake It Bluey encourages independent play, enhances motor skills and sparks imagination, says the company.

Below: My 1st Phonics: Spin & Learn is designed to teach preschool children the 44 phonemes of the English language.

Retail gains

“Retailers need to recognise the importance of these educational toys and include them in their promotional activity when featuring the more ‘fun’ and ‘trendy’ toys,” says Trends’ Graham. “The educational items will always deliver strong year-round sales, but consumers need to be made aware of them.”

Meanwhile, educational toys is a growing category for hauck in the UK, as trade marketing manager, Edina Mujakic, explains to PPS. “The biggest seller is our Alpha highchair with the Play Tray and Toys, as well as our award winning Learn to Walk Plants,” she says. “We think parents are looking for sustainable products made of wood. Products should be attractive, engaging and have good value for money.” The company is planning to launch further products in the Arketa Family going forward.

of the market in general, as parents stick to the tried and tested,” he says.

The company’s biggest success has been with its Numberblocks and Alphablocks products. Number Fun and Phonics Fun have been tracking well ahead of last year and all the new products are performing well, says Graham.

When it comes to new launches, Graham makes a key point:

“Electronic Learning Aids is a difficult category to have too many product launches due the investment and time involved developing new items. However, we do have new items launching across both Numberblocks and Alphablocks in 2024, and in 2025 we are excited about our entry into Bing with our hugely successful Flip & Learn Phone. In Science Mad we are always looking to broaden our offering and have a number of exciting new product launches planned for 2025.”

Graham says that the company is always looking out for the next appropriate opportunity in the licensing space. “In preschool we are very dependent on licences and are always looking for the next appropriate opportunity. For science, licences are less important as consumers are looking at value for money, though a strong umbrella brand, like Science Mad, is important as it pulls the category together and provides consumer security.”

VTech is another company well known for its educational offering. Rebecca Lazarus, UK

marketing manager, comments:

“This year has certainly come with its challenges, but we are optimistic for peak season. New autumn/winter products have got off to a positive start, which will help maintain our number one position as Infant, Toddler and Preschool Manufacturer (Circana August 202 YTD Sterling) for the rest of the year.”

LeapFrog has introduced several educational toys for preschoolers this tear, one being My 1st Phonics: Spin & Learn. Rebecca continues: “This interactive toy is designed to teach preschool children the 44 phonemes of the English language. It features five double-sided flip pages including colourful images and over 100 words carefully selected to make learning language sounds engaging and fun for toddlers. Children can press the 10 light up buttons to explore each picture, hear the word and learn the associated letter sound or they can press the big red button in the middle to see the lights swirl around for random learning moments.

“Both VTech and LeapFrog have some new and exciting products for 2025 that take popular play patterns in toys for older children, but making features suitable for a younger audience. We are excited to show these to retailers in previews and at London Toy Fair 2025.”

Licences are also important to VTech, due to their strong brand recognition with the preschool demographic. “At VTech, we seek licensing opportunities with emerging shows or content such as Bluey and Gabby’s Dollhouse or popular characters such as Disney Princess, that align with our product values and target age group,” explains Rebecca. “We focus on partnerships that resonate with current trends, making these licensed products highly appealing to both children and parents. VTech’s Shake It Bluey has been hugely popular - little ones can follow Bluey’s instructions in Follow Me Mode to advance through difficulty levels while her tummy lights up with every sound. This interactive toy encourages independent play, enhances motor skills and sparks imagination.”

Rebecca says that both VTech’s and LeapFrog’s educational toys strike a balance between fun and learning, ensuring that the child is engaged while also benefiting developmentally.

“Parents often look for toys that are safe, durable and provide educational value. Our toys are packed with age appropriate content that follows the national curriculum. Preschoolers want toys that are colourful, interactive and fun. They love toys that allow them to pretend and explore their world, such as the LeapFrog Count & Swirl Ice Cream Maker. A retro ice cream machine, bundled with 12 accessories for role-play fun, featuring a lever to release the ice creams into the cones. In true LeapFrog fashion, this new launch also teaches colours, memory, sequencing, numbers and visual counting,” Rebecca concludes.

Left: Trends UK has seen solid success with its Numberblocks and Alphablocks products.

TRENDS-PROG-PRE-SCHOOL-145X110

03/09/2024 13:59

With an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash lands directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry.

Pr e s c h o o l N e w s . n e t 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 new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash will land directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry. A modern, easy to navigate website will provide a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

P r e s c h o o l N e w s . n e t 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 new website and e-newsflash portal will provide the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

A modern, easy to navigate website provides a central resource for the trade too, offering news, in-depth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Preschool, and much much more.

PreschoolNews.net is the 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 website and e-newsflash portal provides the very latest news, views, and analysis across the preschool product and retail sector.

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

Launching with an unrivalled email subscriber base of 12,087 readers, a twice weekly newsflash will land directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fast-paced industry.

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

ADVERTISING AND COMMERCIAL

Jo Cassidy joc@max-publishing.co.uk

Rob Willis robw@max-publishing.co.uk

EDITORIAL AND CONTENT

Sam Loveday saml@max-publishing.co.uk

Katie Roberts-Mason katierm@max-publishing.co.uk

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and direct impact to retail buyers.

by preschool

experts, for preschool trade experts.

Brought to you by the publishers of

EDUCATIONAL TOYS

LEAPFROG

Get ready for a sweet adventure with the Count & Swirl Ice Cream Maker by LeapFrog. The retro-styled ice cream machine isn’t just about fun – it’s a whirlwind of creativity and learning. Packed with 12 accessories, it’s the ultimate set-up for an unforgettable role-play experience. Hit the customer order button to hear requests and dive into action. Load up the six colourful ice cream swirls into the machine, pull the levers and watch the magic as the swirls fill your cone or cup. With each pull, preschoolers will discover new colours and flavours.

trade.sales@vtecheu.com www.vtecheu.com

VTECH

TRENDS

Trends is a long-standing licensee on ELAs in the UK for hit preschool brand Peppa Pig, and it is now due to roll out product with the new Learn With Peppa look and feel. Following the successful Ladybird publishing partnership on Learn With Peppa, Trends will leverage the credentials of some of its key learning toys to support a new and growing segment of the Peppa portfolio this year and beyond.

salesadmin@trendsuk.co.uk www.trendsuk.co.uk

UNIVERSITY GAMES

The Learning Journey range of Electronic and Sensory educational preschool toys from University Games includes fun and engaging Crawl about Butterfly and Crawl about Bee, as well as the fun On the Go Controller and Phone, the Count and Learn Cookie Jar and Telly the Teaching Time Clock. The range also features the Pop and Discover Activity Cube and the Cupcake Shape Sorter, which focus on sensory play, perfect for little hands and minds to explore and develop. 0207 254 0100 www.university-games.co.uk

Load up your wagon and get ready to roll with four sides packed with exciting activities that will spark imagination and curiosity. Pull the wagon for on-the-go play and to trigger the motion sensor. The light up activity panel introduces animals, numbers, colours and shapes. The gears, spinners, bead maze and shape sorting pieces support motor skills and hand eye coordination. The handle folds over the wagon for easy storage, while it includes 18 melodies and three singalong songs. Suitable for 12-36 months.

Trade.Sales@vtecheu.com www.vtecheu.com

LEAPFROG

Little ones will be thrilled to explore the world of language with My 1st Phonics: Spin & Learn. With four unique learning modes and 44 phonemes to discover, the interactive toy transforms learning into an adventure. The five double-sided flip pages are packed with vibrant images and over 100 specially selected words, all designed to make learning sounds fun and engaging for toddlers. Kids can press any of the 10 lightup buttons to dive into each picture, discovering new words, practise fun phrases and even hear how sounds blend to form words.

trade.sales@vtecheu.com www.vtecheu.com

It’s been months in the planning, but Blues Group’s new costume wing is fired up and ready to go. The dressing-up team have recently been in China visiting the company’s factory partners, and are busy developing product, mostly for Halloween 2025. Meetings with key retailers are taking place over the next few weeks to finalise styles.

“Moving into dress-up felt like a natural move, because it complements everything that we already do,” explains Blues Group’s divisional director of sales and design, Ruth Golightly. “There’s a synergy to it. Blues Group has become a one-stop shop for retailers, using our

A recognised industry leader in licensed babywear and toddlerwear as well as adult apparel, and supplier to some of the UK’s biggest supermarkets and high-street names, Blues Group has recently added dress-up to its business portfolio. PPS checks in with costume division director, Tony Lewis, and Blues Group’s divisional director of sales and design, Ruth Golightly, to find out more.

POWER DRESSING

strength in design to create cross-category ranges, from baby through to toddler clothing and adult apparel too, especially around events and key moments. One recent example that comes to mind is the collaboration we have created for Nutmeg with Flower Fairies; we have brought together a cross-category range for baby and childrenswear across daywear and nightwear, which launches in September in Morrisons stores.”

the preschool landscape; we have nearly every single preschool licence that’s out there on our books. We already work with the big brands like Disney, Mattel and Warner Bros., as well as some of the smaller brands that are well known in the dress-up space, and we have a reputation for creativity and great designs. We found that retailers are increasingly looking for a one-stop shop to make things easier for themselves. They don’t want to have to liaise with two or three different apparel licencees on a single licence. It makes sense to hand over the costume business to a company that they already work with and trust.”

A trusted partner to some of the biggest names in retail, Blues Group has been operating in the licensed apparel space for a number of years. “Our toddler daywear and baby clothing divisions have been going for over 15 years, and 20 years in the case of babywear,” says Ruth. “We pretty much own

“Historically, dress-up has been linked to the toy market,” furthers costume division director Tony Lewis, “but actually, from a customer point of view, it’s clothing, something their children are possibly going to wear day after day. So, from a design point of view, it’s aligned with what

Above: Blues Group is a trusted supplier to major retailers including Tesco’s F&F.

Right: The company’s Ruth Golightly and Tony Lewis, both costume industry veterans.

we’re already doing and where our expertise is.”

Blues Group already has expert teams in place across its five businesses: Dennicci (babywear), Blues Clothing (toddler apparel), Blues Nightwear (children’s and adult sleepwear and loungewear), adult outerwear, and Brecrest Fashion (licensed sportswear). The costume wing is no exception, with Lynda Morris having joined from Disguise in the role of head of creative and design, bringing with her over 20 years’ experience in dress-up and licensed design. Ruth herself managed the dress-up department at Asda during her time as head of buying for childrenswear, and Tony is another seasoned costume industry pro. In his previous role at Disguise he headed up the team which successfully built an autonomous EMEA costume arm for the business; prior to that, he was integral in establishing the dress-up business at Christy’s. His wealth of experience, contacts and knowledge – especially of supply and manufacturing – perfectly complements Blues Group’s strong licensor and retail relationships, and makes the new costume wing, in Tony’s words, “a really strong offer”.

The market for dress-up has shifted exponentially in the twoplus decades since Tony started working in the industry. “Dress-up used to be a throwaway product. It was predominantly a Christmas product, and frankly, it could be tacky and cheap,” he says. “With the explosion in popularity of seasonal

events like Halloween and World Book Day, there’s been a demand for better quality costumes that are made to last, and that demand is pretty much all year round. In addition to seasonal celebrations, you see spikes when summer movies are released, and when new video games are launched – the gaming industry today is just as big as movies – and these are all moments we can build around.”

Ruth adds: “You also have a lot of popular culture trends that come and go, often driven by social media, that you can lean into. There was a TikTok trend recently for cats, and we saw a big spike in our search terms for all things cat-related. Right now, there’s a country and western trend that came off the back of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album; obviously, Toy Story is great for that, because you’ve got Woody and Jessie, but there’s also a demand for generic cowboy and cowgirl outfits. So, as well as

licensed dressing up, we are also working on retailer’s own label/ own brand everyday make-believe outfits – fairies, pirates, emergency service costumes and various animals, and for Halloween, things like witches and skeletons.”

The wear-it-then-bin-it costume is, thankfully, a thing of the distant past. “Sustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s mind, including ours,” says Ruth. “We don’t want to make disposable items; we ensure every garment we create is made using recycled fibres and materials, and that advice is given to the end customer on the circularity of the garment after use, so it can be reused and repurposed. The issue is really important to us, and it’s equally important to the customers who are buying our products.”

As well as sustainability, inclusivity is something that’s on the company’s radar. In 2023, Blues Group worked with The National Autistic Society on a Thomas & Friends autism-friendly apparel range for Tesco’s F&F Clothing, and Tony and the team are “open” to similar initiatives in the future.

“We’re excited to see what our creative team comes up with when it comes to costumes,” Tony says. “They employ innovation in design, by using AI tools as well as creating samples with fabrics and pattern cuttings to ensure comfort, and are great at coming up with inventive ideas that can be incorporated to really bring designs to life.”

The new division has been well received in the market, in particular by retailers looking to broaden and strengthen their choices of supply base. “We’ve had brands, suppliers and retailers coming to us and offering support and words of encouragement,” says Tony. “There’s a lot of goodwill there. And in turn, we want people to know we’re here to support them, and help them strengthen what they’re already doing.”

Right:: Peppa Pig is just one of many perennially popular licences in Blues Group’s portfolio.

Left: Blues Group’s cross-category Flower Fairies range for Nutmeg debuted in Morrisons stores in September.

waste to wonder

We’re turning trash to threads with the Joie Cycle collection. Featuring fabrics made from recycled bottles, our environmentally friendly line weaves eco-consciousness into everyday life with baby.

versatrax™ trio

FAIR TRADE

The Harrogate International Nursery Fair rolls back into town this month – bringing with it benefits and excitement across the board. For retailers, it’s a chance to see new products coming into the UK parenting market, as well as an opportunity to see new innovations, snap up special show offers – and experience the hospitality on offer.

Christine Scippo, communications manager for the Harrogate show, tells PPS what’s in store for visitors: “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the show. It’s a favourite once-a-year UK event for the trade, where you can get hands on with products and we hope you will take the time to visit and discover items that will adorn your shelves into 2025. We have a bumper show again this year, with 42 new exhibitors, plus exhibitors with new products, such as Roma, which is introducing its new Bentley collection; in fact, we have a bit of car show feel going on this year, with Cozy n Safe showcasing its new Mercedes range.

“There are five halls all on the same level, plus various catering options; the Conservatory Café in Hall Q is sponsored by Momcozy and the café in Hall B is once again sponsored by Cheeky Rascals. There are kiosk outlets for snacks and drinks in Halls C and Q.”

Many of the exhibitors have extended their ranges and stands this year, as Christine explains. “The CuddleCo stand will be particularly impressive with its ‘Go Large’ display, plus we have some new brands joining for the first time including Little Dutch, Wildride, DKB Toys, Momcozy from China, Espiro from Poland and Lorelli from Bulgaria. We have several new brands from the US exhibiting, too. We also welcome the return of well-known brands such as Chicco, Matchstick Monkey and Sophie La Giraffe.”

Another new innovation is the Baby Boutique Village, which offers layette companies key promotion in one space. “New baby clothing and gifts make great impulse and add-on purchases for independent retailers, so this is a welcome addition to the show,” says Christine.

The industry is set to be treated to another bumper three days at the Harrogate International Nursery Fair from 1315 October, with new launches across key categories, sneak peaks and plentiful networking opportunities. PPS finds out more.

An international flavour

The show will also be offering some international flair this year, with exhibitors attending from around Europe.

Countries represented will include Bulgaria, China, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden and Switzerland.

Examples include Didis from Bulgaria which has been importing and exporting children’s products under the Lorelli brand for 20 years with a range of products from prams, car seats, high chairs, sleep products and multifunctional toys. Also, Tututis, a small family business from Lithuania, which has grown to be a well-known stroller manufacturer in Europe.

Poland has been represented at the show for many years with car seat brand Avionaut; and Espiro will also be joining the show for the first time this year. The company will be showcasing its range of strollers, car seats, highchairs, cots and accessories. Another new name to the show is Swedish company Mast with a range of high-quality, practical and stylish strollers.

There will also be plenty of celebrations on the show floor this year, too. “Babystyle celebrates its 25 year anniversary and will be hosting a champagne and gin bar party on stand M6. Pop by and raise a toast with Andy, Sam and the team on Sunday at 4.30pm before heading to the networking reception just next door in the spectacular Royal Hall from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. There will be a chance to mingle with industry colleagues and the show organisers in the exquisite surroundings.”

Below: The networking reception will return to the Royal Hall on the Sunday evening.

Inset: Babystyle’s popular gin bar will also serve champagne this year as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Beige is the new black

Introducing the new Minla Plus and Home Equipment Collection in a stunning colour palette. Inspired by nature and featuring wood tones and soft 100% recycled fabrics, they are the ultimate must-haves for any home.

Minla Plus

Smooth child installation

Fully adjustable

Featuring the new one-hand rotating tray and easy-in harness hooks.

Easy to move and fold

Minla Plus adapts to your growing child from birth up to 14 years old.

Featuring four wheels, including two front swivel wheels with brakes, and folds down quickly and compactly.

Elegant modern design

Integrating wood tones with soft fabrics, subtly complementing modern interiors.

Iora Air

Meet the Classic Beige Home Equipment collection

Being a parent never goes out of style and neither do neutrals. Our new collection is designed to be the perfect addition to any stylish home.

• All-round mesh for breathability

• Enhanced comfort thanks to the extra-thick mattress

• Handy rocking mode to soothe baby to sleep Cassia

• Automatic motion detection

• 360° seat rotation

• 12 soothing melodies

• Lightweight at only 4 kg

Kori

• Ultra-comfortable newborn pillow

• 2-in-1 rocker with rocking and stationary modes

• One-hand recline

• Entertaining toy arch with two plush toys

Home Equipment collection is available in Classic Beige and Beyond Graphite.

FLOOR FILLERS

There’s a plethora of news being revealed by exhibitors at this year’s Harrogate International Nursery Fair. The PPS team will be on stand A17, so do pop by and say hello. Here, we round up what visitors can expect from just some of the companies on the show floor.

The five halls at the Harrogate Convention Centre are set to be bustling from 13-15 October, with over 100 exhibitors – including a healthy turnout of newcomers – highlighting their latest product launches, deals and collaborations.

Kicking off with Cybex (A3) which has a number of new products launching in the final quarter of 2024. Known for innovation, it will show a new carrier at the show and the home range will be expanding - of course, there will be a few more car seats. Further innovations are planned for 2025.

Maxi-Cosi (A7) is all set for another successful year at Harrogate, with the new pushchair Fame, aimed at Gen Z parents, starring at the show. The newest addition to the Maxi-Cosi collection encapsulates timeless design and is packed with ingenious features. Fame promises to revolutionise the way families navigate their daily adventures,

Above: Over 100 exhibitors will pack into the Harrogate Convention Centre.

Left: Cybex has a number of new products launching in the final quarter.

Below: Maxi-Cosi will be highlighting its new Fame range, aimed at Gen Z parents.

while providing the ultimate in luxury and innovation. Key features include the LumiRide LED lighting system in the lower frame that illuminates darker streets and pathways to ensure that parent and baby are always safe and visible. The height-adjustable

Playtime for curious minds

Close2Me carrycot ensures parents never get backache when lifting their newborn in and out. Fame also comes with an integrated power bank to ensure phones and devices never run low on battery life, helping parents to stay connected while on the go, plus it seamlessly integrates with Maxi-Cosi's Pebble 360 Pro car seat featuring SlideTech technology –a world-first sliding innovation for car seats that makes easy work of getting children in and out of the car.

Maxi-Cosi's classic car seats are launching in new colours, plus there’s a very special new launch being unveiled on the stand. There are new colours to discover in the Home Equipment collection and a sneak peek at the newest collections from Tiny Love and Bébé Confort.

Ickle Bubba (Q1) has introduced new product categories during 2024 and will be extending these with the new Stella Rocker, as well as the Scout 3-in-1 Travel Crib, Cot & Playpen. This autumn/winter will also see the debut of a product which has been in development for quite some time - something designed to evolve with you and designed to make growing families’ lives easier.

BIG NEWS

Plus Plus (C39) helps children discover how to create 2D and 3D designs from its building pieces. From simple shapes to complex structures - there are no limits to what they can create. Encouraging youngsters to take their first steps into building, Plus-Plus BIG is suitable for children aged from one to six years of age, due to its safe BPA-free and Phthalate-free plastic construction. It’s the perfect size for small hands to grasp, so that little

ones can start to learn about fixing pieces together and with the help of an adult, start to create simple shapes and creations. It’s also safe to put in the dishwasher or washing machine, keeping it hygienically clean and is popular to play with in the bath.

New at this year’s show are two new colour mix boxes inspired by the latest nursery décor trends - Bloom comprises pieces in peach, vanilla, lilac, violet and white, while Breeze offers dark blue, cornflower, mint, camel and vanilla shades. They’re ideal for younger hands from aged 10 months up and both are available in 15-piece tubes or 100-piece box sets.

There will also be sample bags given away and some great show deals for all customers.

Trixie (C42), which offers a broad range of children’s products including backpacks and bottles, toys, games and puzzles, plus bed and bathtime products, will be inviting visitors to check out its Trixie Baby and Nursery Essentials, as well as the return of its popular soft toys. The company will also be launching colourful

new bath books, as well as a 100% silicone nightlight in animal designs including Mrs. Elephant, Mr. Lion, Mrs. Cat, Mrs. Rabbit and Mr. Dino. Hauck (A5) will be at the show launching its new Arketa Family into the UK nursery market for 2025, hot off the back of its win of the Kind & Jugend Innovation Award in the Furniture and Facility category. The group of FSC-certified wooden items includes the versatile wooden Highchair Arketa and the Highchair Bouncer Eco, plus the Arketa Play Tray with a fun Play Cockpit. Suitable from birth to adulthood (up to 130kg), the highchair can be used with the removable bouncer on top from birth (and the bouncer can also be used on its own) and as your child grows, they can use the highchair alone at the table or with the play tray and cute toys attached. With up to three toys, the play items help children develop their early motor and visual skills. Also on show will be the award-winning Alpha+ highchair and the Learn N Explore tower, which has also collected accolades since its launch.

CuddleCo (B5) is committed to making its Harrogate stand bigger, more exciting, and filled with even more new offerings each year - and this year is no exception. Visitors can expect to see a mini addition to its

Above left: Ickle Bubba has introduced new product categories during 2024. Above right: Plus Plus helps children discover how to create 2D and 3D designs from its building pieces. Below: Trixie will be showing its new bath book range.

bestselling Clara Cashmere Collection, the debut of a fresh, contemporary furniture set called Harper and an expansion into nursery furnishings, including cute rattan nursery storage solutions and a woven changing basket.

The company will also be displaying the full Doona range, including the latest model, Doona X. The innovative design features three adjustable recline positions - sit, relax and lay back. Accessories specifically designed to fit underneath the Doona X when it’s in stroller mode - the Doona X Pack & Go Basket and the Doona X Storage Basket – will also be unveiled.

On top of this, CuddleCo will be showcasing a new addition to its brand portfolio, the Inglesina range, having signed as the new UK distribution partner. Working in collaboration with neonatal health experts, Inglesina has a range of innovative baby products, including the Welcome Pod. Designed to be used from birth, the ergonomic baby nest allows newborns to rest and begin to discover the world in a cosy sheltered space.

NEW PRODUCTS AND FASHIONS

Cheeky Rascals (B1) is ready to ‘pull out all the stops’ at the show, with a number of ‘unbeatable’ offers and exclusive deals for the Fair.

New products on display will include the Owlet Dream Sock,

which takes baby monitoring to a new level and the innovative Baby Brezza Bottle Washer, a gamechanger for new parents.

The company is also promising a spread of snacks to keep visitors going throughout the day, plus coffee while they browse and a bar to unwind at the end of the day.

Interactive audio system, tonies (B22) will be showcasing its collection which now includes more than 200 tonies to choose from. Classics include Paddington and The Gruffalo, plus there are TV favourites including Peppa Pig and PAW Patrol. The boxes can be used to stimulate imagination or to encourage sleep, with the Sleepy Sheep Night Light and Sleepy Friends tonies.

Nuna (A9) has new products and fashions due for launch in 2025, as well as fresh collections and the Nuna x BMW collaboration. The Nuna x Liberty Fantasy Land Collection was launched earlier this year and features the TRIV Next pushchair, the LYTL Carrycot and the CUDL CLIK Baby Carrier, all in a luxe fabric with Liberty print accents. The collection also includes the introduction of the BRYN highchair, complete with wooden accents and BPA- and DEHP free

Above: hauck is launching its new Arketa Family into the UK nursery market for 2025.

Below: CuddleCo has become the new UK distribution partner for the Inglesina range.

Right: Cheeky Rascals will be showcasing the Owlet Dream Sock, which takes baby monitoring to a new level.

materials. The limited edition chair has no visible screws or attachments and blends seamlessly into any home.

Nuna will also showcase the recently launched SWIV pushchair, with 360-degree swivel wheels to navigate effortlessly through crowded spaces. Visitors to the show will be able to preview some new and innovative products alongside the full range.

My Babiie (A2) will be celebrating its continued growth among independent retailers and will be welcoming visitors to its stand to see its range of wheeled goods, highchairs, accessories and nursery items.

New to the show is toy company SQUEEK (Q82). Its hero product is an innovative highchair toy containing a special surprise. Daisy, suitable from six months, not only looks cute but will capture baby’s attention, guiding them to spin the picture panels to bring the toy to life. With more than 10 million testers finding it engaging, the product will be launching in January 2025.

Espiro (M5) is a Polish and European pushchair company which is keen to bring its range of prams to the UK, having been producing them for over 30 years. Led by a team of specialists, they are first and foremost parents and bring their passion and experience to their range of strollers, car seats, highchairs and baby cots.

If customers are concerned about the air quality in their homes, then Nooku (Q14) can help. Did you know that air inside your home can be five times more polluted than the air outside? Nooku can help families

cleanse the air inside their homes and also help avoid asthma and allergies, as well as preventing pollution build-up – this can lead to improved concentration and sleep quality. With a range of air purifiers to suit all needs, the units not only clean the air but allow users real-time information on just what’s in the air they breathe, too.

Italian children’s furniture and clothing brand Nanan (C19) was born when a mother and daughter set about designing baby products. They have a range of strollers including a fabric collaboration which visitors can see at the show.

OLD FRIENDS AND NEW

If you are looking for a good selection of mattresses to offer with your cots and cribs, Nursery Connections (B20) will be highlighting its range at the show. The company has more than 20 years’ experience in the baby industry and offers mattresses that customers will feel secure in buying. From crib and Moses basket to cotbed mattresses, it also offers changing mats and travel cot mattresses too.

An old favourite returns on stand Q37 – Sophie la giraffe, with the

popular teething toy of several generations is back at Harrogate. The awardwinning teething toy is now in its 63rd year and over 70 million have been sold so far.

Baby Shusher (Q70) is launching two new products at the show this year to add to its popular soothing aids. Shusher Firefly and Shusher Sloth will help babies calm with their soothing sounds – plus, there’s the chance to win $1,000 worth of products for your store.

We all know how much mess babies love to make, so it’s always great to discover useful and attractive dribble bibs for your customers. Bibblyboo (Q53) makes fashionable waterproof bibs that are not only absorbent but help prevent dribble rash, too. Soft and flexible, they are designed for kids who don’t slow down.

Another newcomer to Harrogate is Modu (C46), a Danish brand that offers life-sized building toys for kids. Large pieces can be put together to create see-saws, chairs, tables, ride-on toys, trucks, rockers and building toys

– the child’s imagination supplies the blueprint. Sleepwear brand ergopouch can be found Wild Seven stand (C25). The natural sleeping bags are TOG-rated and they come in a range of colours and designs. The range covers kids from newborn to six years, so there’s always a product to help sleep-deprived parents through those early years. Wild Seven also distributes Blinky buggy shades and covers, Cosatto toys, Lulujo muslins and bibs and guzzie+Guss, the portable hanging highchair.

Bonalife (Q76) offers dietary supplements for babies from birth to three years and also for pregnant mothers and children. Containing no artificial colours, preservatives, added sugar, flavours or additives, the company has been helping support the nutrition of families for over 28 years in 60 countries. Its infant vitamins include a Breast-milk grade DHA supplement that may help boost brain power and learning ability as part of a healthy diet.

BabyBjörn (C3) is introducing a number of ‘must-have’ accessories to its product line-up. These will include the Jersey Baby Bib for Baby Carrier – which comes in two versions, one for the Baby Carrier Mini and Move and the other for the Baby Carrier Harmony. The new Pocket Pouch allows parents to leave their bag at home and fits all BabyBjörn Baby Carriers, while there is also the Bouncer Balance Soft, which will come in a new Tri-Fabric and Bouncer Bliss and Baby Carrier Harmony in woven mélange, a new super soft fabric made in part from recycled polyester. The brand will also launch a new ergonomic Baby Feeding Set. Finally, Harrogate will be the prime opportunity to see some of the latest additions to the Joie (A9) range –notably the new Chestnut highchair which has nine different modes, taking little ones from mealtime to playtime, from birth to six years.

Above right: SQUEEK’s hero product is an innovative highchair toy containing a special surprise. Below: Modu is a newcomer to the Fair this year.

IN FOCUS: BABYSTYLE

Travel and homewares specialist, Babystyle is celebrating its 25th anniversary at Harrogate with exciting new products - and a party atmosphere on its stand. PPS catches up with md Andy Crane about the opportunities and challenges for the future.

IN STYLE

The Harrogate Nursery Fair is key for many retailers to ensure a strong start to 2025 and is an invaluable opportunity to deepen relationships with customers, gather feedback on new products and secure orders. Companies can also collaborate closely with retailers to enhance in-store presence and create compelling content for launches, building momentum into the new year.

“We look forward to seeing our retailers at this year’s Harrogate Nursery Fair and feel so lucky that nearly 40 retailers have been loyal to us since our launch 25 years ago,” says Andy Crane, md at Babystyle. ‘We can’t wait to show our appreciation at this year’s Harrogate Nursery Fair.”

In addition to the launch of its new Oyster Gravity+, Babystyle will offer an exclusive preview of the Oyster4. It will also have a secret room - with an ‘eggcellent’ surprise in store…

“With our 25th anniversary celebrations in full swing, this year’s BabyStyle stand is one you won’t want to miss,” says Andy.

Babystyle is well known for its support of independent nursery stores and Andy has no plans to change that. He explains: “We support our retailers by offering strong margins and maintaining our commitment not to sell directly to consumers - a rarity in

today's market and one that has garnered immense loyalty in return. Our social media channels drive customers into stores for handson experiences before they buy. We also provide comprehensive marketing support, including the recent launch of our Retailer Hub. This resource equips our partners with ready-to-use social media posts, product images, web banners and more, making it easier for them to promote our products effectively.”

It's no secret that the nursery industry has been harmed by the economic downturn. “This year has certainly presented its challenges,” Andy continues. “The cost-of-living crisis began impacting us early on and retailers reported a fall in footfall. Despite this, our market share has remained strong and the egg3 in Mink has undeniably been our bestselling product, setting a new standard for this trending colourway. The Oyster3 also continues to perform strongly in its class and our new home range has been met with positive feedback.

“Additionally, our new pet basket has exceeded our expectations and we’ve been thrilled to see customers sharing photos that highlight how much they love it on social media.

Building on the success of the egg3 in Mink, Babystyle is excited

to introduce its latest fashion for the autumn/winter season: Chocolate Velvet. The new design features a matt bronze chassis paired with rich, deep brown fabric and has the potential to become the next big trendsetter.

Andy continues: “We're also expanding our product line with the launch of the eggloo Potty. This decision was inspired by our incredible Instagram community, who enthusiastically participated in a Q&A session and expressed overwhelming support for the idea, prompting us to move forward with production.”

How will Babystyle celebrate its 25th birthday at the Harrogate show? “Well,” says Andy, “we’re transforming our infamous gin bar into a champagne bar to kick off our celebrations in style. Our stand will pay tribute to our anniversary and we’ll be rewarding our most loyal customers. We’re also releasing special edition strollers that capture the spirit of this milestone.”

Above: The egg3 pushchair in new colour Chocolate Velvet.

Inset: The new eggloo potty, created in collaboration with Babystyle’s Instagram fans.

Below: Andy Crane, Babystyle’s managing director.

HARROGATE NURSERY FAIR

RAINBOW DESIGNS

Retailers will not want to miss Rainbow Designs’ bestselling licensed character nursery collections which will be on display at the Harrogate Nursery Show. From the popular Paddington, Peter Rabbit and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh infant ranges, to the new Harry Potter Wizarding World and Disney Baby Lion King collections, the contemporary and playful infant toy collections, coupled with much-loved characters, make thoughtful forever gifts and keepsakes for babies and children.

01329 227300

www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Hall C, Stand C29

RKW

PLUS-PLUS

Plus-Plus creates high-quality toys to inspire children’s creativity and imagination. The company’s BIG range is specially designed for preschoolers, promoting safe and open-ended play with BPA-free and Phthalate-free plastic pieces. Plus-Plus is committed to sustainability, running its factory and headquarters on 100% green energy and maintaining a zero waste production process. Its products and packaging are fully recyclable.

info.uk@plus-plus.com

www.plus-plus.com

Hall C, Stand C39

BTL DIFFUSION

Fresh to the UK shores from America comes Speedy Monkey, a range of wooden toys, perfect for ages from 0-8+. With the wide variety of designs including cars and vehicles, instruments, kitchen appliances and much more, the FSC certified toys encourage imaginative play for all children – plus, they don’t require any batteries, so the fun never stops. Aesthetically pleasing and a perfect fit in any home.

contact@btl-diffusion.co.uk

www.btl-diffusion.co.uk

Hall C – Stand C28

RKW is thrilled to be exhibiting at Harrogate for the first time as the UK’s exclusive distributor of the popular Chicco brand. The company is eager to showcase Chicco’s latest innovations, including the Next2Me Twin System, a revolutionary co-sleeping solution for twins, which reflects Chicco’s strong parent-centred philosophy.

In addition to Chicco, it will also be featuring products from the Boppy and Hubble brands.

0333 220 6070

www.rkwltd.com

Hall M, Stand M4

DKB TOYS & DISTRIBUTION

Stor’s range of 3D character bottles are very popular after launching at the end of summer. The bottles are perfect gifts, as well as being brilliant for school bags and trips out of the house.

The original children’s tumbler with integrated straw, with 3D decorations shaped like the head of some of the most famous characters such as Pikachu, Bluey, and everyone’s favourite Stitch are ideal to keep kids hydrated anywhere they go.

info@dkbtoys.com

www.dkbtoys.com

Hall Q, Stand Q52

AN AWARD WINNING YEAR FOR HAUCK

Best Highchair under £ 100

Sustainable / Eco Friendly Product

HARROGATE NURSERY FAIR

MODU

MODU is a Copenhagen-based kids’ brand and system of life-size building toys designed for long-lasting play. It is a small team having fun as it works towards a world with more imagination and play in everyday life. As kids grow, the products grow with them, and the company aspires to evolve along the way - both as a business and as people. retail@modu.dk www.modutoy.com

Hall C, Stand C46

TRIXIE

BIBBILYBOO

Bibbilyboo creates award winning waterproof dribble bibs which absorb from the front and block dribble at the back. The contemporary designs and unique shaping make them stand out from the crowd; as they not only look great, but they actually last the day. Aimed at dribbling babies and toddlers up to age three, the design offers a premium solution to teething, with a guarantee to keep little one’s dry, shrink laundry piles and eradicate dribble rashes. katie@bibbilyboo.com www.bibbilyboo.co.uk

Hall Q, Stand Q53

BIBS

The Bibs x Liberty collaboration brings timeless, elegant prints into the Bibs universe, upholding its commitment to high quality and expert craftsmanship. By selecting heritage designs from Liberty’s 150 year old living archive, it offers safe, functional and stylish products which blend modern Scandinavian approach with heritage British designs. Immerse yourself in serene woodlands and blooming gardens with an intricate pattern crafted from original ink drawings made in the Liberty Design Studio. Featuring dense florals reminiscent of wood engravings, it captures the essence of rustic charm and natural elegance. uktrade@bibsworld.com www.bibsworld.com

Hall B, Stand B9

Trixie has added night lights to its product range, with a choice of five animal friends, each with their own unique design. The lights are made of 100% silicone, a durable material. An extension of several bath books is also new in the range, as well as a relaunch of the popular soft toys with Mr. Dino, Mr. Lion, Mrs. Elephant and Mrs. Rabbit – these toys develop the sensory play of little ones. scott@trixie-baby.com www.trixie-baby.com

Hall C, Stand C42

HALILIT

Halilit is introducing two new Taf Toys Gift Sets, the Tummy-Time Essentials Kit and Bathtime Kit –both thoughtfully curated to offer the perfect gift for new parents complete with gift packaging. Containing seven products in one, the Tummy-Time Kit offers endless entertainment for little ones with a pillow, book, water mat and sensory balls, while the bathtime kit includes a bath book, hooded towel and fun floating and squirting water toys. sales@halilit.co.uk www.halilit.co.uk

Hall B, Stand B13

Hippychick, a family-run luxury toy and nursery essentials company based in Somerset, is celebrating a major milestone this year – 25 years in business. PPS finds out more.

Inset: Well over 20,000 Hipseats have sold all over the world.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

It all began back in 1999, when founder Julia Minchin’s first son Tom was born, and she realised there was a big gap in the market for truly useful products for new parents. One such product was the game-changing Hipseat - a revolutionary, back-saving hip carrier. Recognising the potential of this innovative product, Julia devoted her working life to discovering truly helpful products for parents.

Fast forward 25 years, and the Hipseat continues to be a favourite with well over 20,000 sold all over the world. Hippychick has grown into a thriving £4 million turnover business, with over 2,000 products in its ever-growing portfolio. But despite this growth, Hippychick has remained true to its humble beginnings. The company is still familyrun, with a strong commitment to its team and customers.

As well as its own innovative products, Hippychick also serves as a successful distributor for some of the top nursery and toy brands on the market. Wheely Bug has

OF HIPPYCHICK

been a partner since the early days – this year marks 20 years of collaboration. Hippychick’s portfolio is continuing to expand, especially its toy collection. The latest addition is BS Toys, a successful toy brand from the Netherlands, specialising in indoor and outdoor toys, designed to promote active play.

To celebrate the remarkable 25-year milestone, Hippychick is planning a series of events and promotions in October 2024. A 25km walk across the Quantocks in Somerset has already raised £2.3k for Love Musgrove, and it has many other exciting things to come.

sales@hippychick.com www.hippychick.com

The original back-saving Hipseat, supporting parents for 25 years!

HARROGATE NURSERY FAIR

ROMA PRAMS

Introducing the Rom a x RHS collaboration, a beautifully curated pram collection inspired by nature and rooted in shared sustainability values. Adorned with intricate embroidery of plants, blossoms and more, each design exudes elegance, practicality, and charm for strolls and daily adventures. With soft, neutral tones, the collection is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Explore the wide range of strollers, double prams, travel systems, baby carriers, toys and accessories within this collection. hello@romaprams.co.uk www.romaprams.co.uk

Hall C, Stand C20

ESPIRO

PASTELS & CO

Pastels & Co is introducing the new Never Out of Stock offer for its classic babywear range. Featuring timeless designs and premiumquality fabrics, the essential pieces are crafted to provide both comfort and style for little ones. With this offer, you can now rely on consistent availability of the most popular items, ensuring you never miss out on meeting customer demand.

Introduced at the request of its regular customers, the new baby garments and shawls make perfect gifts.

07971 519567 pastelsenquiries@gmail.com Hall Q, Stand Q55

AXKID

Axkid’s new Minikid range emphasises child safety and comfort with various models designed to meet different needs. The Minikid 4 Max offers extended rear-facing protection for children up to 36 kg, with enhanced safety features. The Minikid 4 Pro, designed for easy installation and space efficiency, features a slim design and a 13-step adjustable headrest. Finally, the budget-friendly Minikid Core provides essential safety features, ensuring reliable protection for families without compromise. salesuk@axkid.com www.axkid.com/uk/

Hall C Stand C2

Meet Miloo - a premium stroller that combines elegance, unique design and above-average functionality. It is an avant-garde classic that proves that it is possible to create a universal compact stroller that will electrify the market.

Miloo is a portal to a new, parental reality. Life is an art of choice. When choosing Miloo, the focus is on what is most important in life and art: above-average, extraordinary, phenomenal experiences. export@espiro.eu www.espiro.eu

Hall M, Stand M5

MUSLINZ

Introducing the latest MuslinZ print collection: a refreshed version of the popular Woodland design, now paired with the new coordinating Oak print in the stylish, on-trend colour, taupe. The versatile, neutral shade aims to complement modern nursery décor and current baby travel systems. Made from 100% pure cotton, the addition to the MuslinZ range offers parents the option to coordinate their nursery accessories with their nursery and equipment, providing baby essentials with style for their little ones.  Info@merrygorounduk.co.uk www.merrygorounduk.co.uk  Hall Q, Stand Q2

HARROGATE NURSERY FAIR

WILDSEVEN

The Lullaby Trust has partnered with ergoPouch on its innovative HugMe Blanket, a sleeve-style blanket that promotes the use of the feet to foot position and cannot become loose or untucked. It offers two variations, both with two options for warmth, 0.2/1.0TOG and 1.0/2.5TOG - simply flip the sheet over to adjust the warmth and follow the Bedding Temperature Guide. Made from the same soft stretch jersey as the sleeping bags and swaddles, it is breathable, non-toxic and soft on baby’s skin.

admin@wildseven.co.uk

www.wildseven.co.uk

Hall C, Stand C26

CUDDLECO

Following the popularity of the Clara Cashmere range at Harrogate 2023, CuddleCo is introducing a mini version of the bestselling Clara Cashmere Cot Bed.

With the new design, CuddleCo aims to make the bestseller accessible to a wider range of customers, especially those with smaller nurseries. The Mini Clara Cot Bed has all the signature CuddleCo features, including three mattress base positions, a day bed conversion and a durable design suitable from birth up to three years. sales@cuddleco.co.uk www.cuddleco.co.uk

Hall B, Stand B5

AVIONAUT

The IQ Orbit base offers ease of use with its one-hand rotation mechanism, allowing quick adjustments with a single click. Its partial rotation supports the rearward-facing position, enhancing child safety during travel. Compatible with the Pixel PRO 2.0 C, AeroFIX RWF 2.0 C and AeroFIX 2.0 C, it ensures versatility across various car seats. Built to last, the base comes with a 10-year warranty and accident replacement service, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind for parents. f.suffield@karwala.com https://avionaut.com/ Hall C Stand C4

BESAFE

BeSafe, VOKSI and MiniMeis will be exhibiting at the Harrogate Nursery Fair. BeSafe will showcase its newest innovations, including the BeSafe Beyond and Flex Fix 2. VOKSI will unveil its new footmuff colour range and exciting accessories, while MiniMeis will present the G5 Shoulder carrier and Hero Backpack. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover high-quality, stylish products designed with parents and children in mind.

www.besafe.com/en/

Hall B, Stand B8

RAVENSBURGER

Ravensburger is introducing the Play+ range, showcasing over 30 toys and books designed to inspire babies’ curiosity through playful discovery. This marks the company’s first collection for infants and toddlers under the blue triangle banner, developed in collaboration with early years experts and parents’ input. Each item offers engaging play opportunities and practical features for parents. The launch will be supported by a robust marketing programme, including partnerships, digital activities and a PR campaign featuring Dr. Zoe Williams from This Morning.

sales@ravensburger.com

www.ravensburger.comn

Hall C, Stand C11

HAUCK

The hauck Arketa Family won the Kind & Jugend Innovation Award for its timeless design and versatility. It includes the FSC-certified Arketa wooden highchair, Highchair Bouncer Eco and Play Tray with the Play Cockpit toy. The FSC-certified collection supports up to 130 kg, accompanying children from birth to adulthood. The Highchair Bouncer Eco offers universal use up to 15 kg. The Play Cockpit attaches easily to the highchair, and the Play Tray aids motor and visual skill development with up to three toys.

info@hauck.com www.hauck.com/en

Hall A, Stand A5

All products from CYBEX follow the ‘CYBEX D.S.F. innovation principle’ - a unique combination of unmistakable design, the highest safety standards and smart functionality, ‘for all tomorrow's people’. PPS takes a look at some of its new and upcoming product launches.

INNOVATION AT ITS FINEST

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW CYBEX CLICK & FOLD HIGHCHAIR

Launching very soon and further enhancing CYBEX’s Gold Home portfolio, is an iconic beechwood highchair called CLICK & FOLD. The highchair is the perfect fit for every modern household thanks to its striking silhouette with bold, straight edges and a curvilinear backrest.

This one-of-a-kind furniture piece can be effortlessly folded for easy storage and can be used throughout any stage of life thanks to its multiple configurations that combine design and functionality at the highest standards.

WhatmakestheCLICK&FOLDsoexciting?

■ Art of craftsmanship

The elegant design of CLICK & FOLD makes this chair a true piece of art, defining outstanding quality and timeless aesthetic for any modern family.

This interiors masterpiece includes a clever and innovative engineering element, which allows the chair to fold and store easily with one smooth movement. Upon folding and unfolding, you will be able to hear a distinct, unique clicking sound; thus, conveying the inspiration behind the name.

■ From birth to 99 years

CYBEX CLICK & FOLD is a chair perfect for every stage in life, providing a design-led modern array of solutions from birth to 99 years of age. The bouncer

Inset and below:

The highchair is the perfect fit for every modern household, says CYBEX.

nest can be used from birth, the baby set for when the child is able to sit upright at approximately six months, and of course the traditional highchair or everyday chair for the most curated households.

■ Extreme comfort and ease

CLICK & FOLD provides extreme comfort for every child with its ergonomic seating position, as well as incredible ease for the families as they effortlessly adjust the height and depth of its seat board and footrest.

The highchair aims to revolutionise how parents approach their interiors lifestyle once having children.

AND NOW A MOMENT FOR THE ALL-NEW CÖYA CARRIER…

Making a statement in the world of carriers, CYBEX has launched the new CÖYA Carrier. This is a carrier designed for modern parents with a fashionable eye yet a practical soul. The carrier features smart fabric technology and an innovative back panel meaning there is no need to adjust the carrier; it fits all children from newborn to toddler instantly. The clever design distributes the child’s weight for extra comfort for the wearer, whilst it boasts the perfect ergonomic posture positioning needed to support growing bodies. The carrier promotes hip health and has been specially designed to support the baby’s natural M shaped posture, whilst also relaxing the spine to mimic the natural curved C position. The carrier features

breathable 3D mesh fabric for superior airflow and ensuring the baby and the wearer have all the comfort they need for every journey.

■ Flexible neck support

A neck support holds your baby’s head upright to ensure optimal positioning as they grow, which is particularly vital for newborn’s development.

■ Protective hood

A UPF 50+ sun protection hood provides shade and shelter for your baby.

■ Storage pocket at the ready

A helpful pocket at the front of the carrier is easily accessible for easy storage on the go.

■ Specially padded fabric

The formulated padding on the shoulder straps and the waist belt, provide additional comfort and support.

■ Storage bag

The carrier simply converts into a cross body bag thanks to the integrated storage area, fold down the CÖYA carrier to a compact package during family travels.

■ All round safety

Keeping your child safe on journeys is key, which is why the CÖYA carrier features convenient fabric straps which gently loop around their legs to keep them nice and close.

Below left and right: The carrier is designed for modern parents with a fashionable eye yet a practical soul.

Look out for CYBEX at Harrogate International Nursery Fair. To see all this innovation and more, visit the CYBEX stand at the Harrogate International Nursery Fair from Sunday 13 to Tuesday 15 October in Hall A on stand A3. Contact your sales rep to book an appointment.

THE BEAUTIFUL GAME

It’s

a category which offers solid all year round sales potential at retail, and also one which entertains, educates and helps preschoolers develop key skills. PPS catches up with just some of the suppliers enjoying success with games and puzzles before looking at a selection of the latest product launches.

While Q4 undoubtedly remains a key period for sales, games and puzzles are a vital part of a preschoolers’ life all year round, offering developmental opportunities, educational elements and, of course, fun.

Parents – and preschoolers – are looking for something from the category which is “simple, fun and engaging”, says Orchard Toys’ sales director, Simon Prest. “For preschoolers that means nothing too complex - parents want quick, easy to digest

instructions and children just want to get on and play,” he tells PPS. “Parents definitely want something to entertain their children, but shoppers also buy into the educational bias of our games and jigsaw puzzles.”

The company has been enjoying success this year with Shopping List, Farmyard Heads and Tails and Match and Spell, which continue to dominate its top three. “The rest of 2024 is focused on the all

important Christmas period, and we’ve already seen sales increase rapidly on our Christmas lines – mini games, Christmas Eve Box and our advent offering, the Countdown to Christmas Activity Book,” Simon continues. “As for 2025 we have a very exciting new range we will be launching at Toy Fair so watch this space for more details.”

Bigjigs Toys is another company which is having a very positive time in the games and puzzles category. “It’s always been a strong performer for us, but with the recent acquisition of The House of Puzzles, we expect even more growth and

Above: The games and puzzles category has been a very positive one for Bigjigs Toys over the past year.

Right: Licences including Bluey and Elmer are important for Ravensburger.

Year-round success

“Preschool games and puzzles are toybox staples year-round,” says Ravensburger’s Katy. “We’d advise retailers to keep the offering fresh and current and we’re really keen to work with our retail partners to develop merchandising solutions to create stand out in-store.”

Bigjigs’ Liz, meanwhile, suggests that retailers buy wide but not necessarily deep in numbers. She says: “By selecting a variety of puzzle piece counts, designs and price points, retailers can meet the evolving needs of preschoolers. Kids develop quickly, so maintaining a dynamic offering that presents new challenges is key to capturing their attention.”

Branded POS materials, digital assets and support with in-store promotions are all delivered by Orchard Toys to help retailers successfully sell its products. “To drive consumer awareness and nudge to purchase, retailer mechanics such as merchandising that highlights products in-store, having a product of the week, promoting on their social media channels, ensuring staff are familiar with the gameplay, and hosting in-store play days are all great for maximising sales,” says Simon.

success in this sector of the market,” says founder and md, Liz Ireland.

Traditional wooden games are a consistent top seller in the preschool category for Bigjigs, with Liz explaining: “Beyond the entertainment factor, these classics are fantastic for skill-building, teaching kids how to problem-solve, interact with others and work independently or as a team.”

A handful of new lines will be arriving for autumn including the new Shut The Box game, while January 2025 will be a key focus with a new range of puzzles and playthings launching for the preschool age group.

Liz continues: “The best preschool puzzles and games capture children’s imagination and provide a reasonable level of challenge. Classic games and puzzles are highly valued as they teach fundamental skills like sorting and recognising colours, shapes, sizes, and numbers, while also encouraging patience and perseverance in the players. A good game or puzzle can even help kids develop their vocabulary and language skills, making them valuable early learning tools.”

When it comes to talking points for the category, Liz highlights the ongoing debate between trending colours versus the more traditional primary colours. “At Bigjigs, we believe in the importance of innovation and incorporating trends in design, however we also understand the benefits of classic colours - and these palettes continue to resonate with children, parents and educators,” she says.

“It’s all about balance, so we like to offer a wide variety of styles to appeal to diverse consumer preferences.”

FULL OF CHARACTER

Licences can also prove to be a key draw within the category. Robert Frederick has seen increases in its branded ranges this year including for Paddington and The Gruffalo, explains key account brand manager, Andrew Kersey. “The rest of 2024 includes more Paddington products in our preschool games range and we have more product to launch in spring as we bring our focus onto outdoor gardening with a new

Paddington Gardening Collection,” he comments.

Value for money, learning, physical skills development and creative gameplay are all key attributes for a good product in the category, says Andrew, while he also points out that sustainability and responsibly sourced materials are on every buyer’s agenda.

To help retailers further generate interest in-store, he also recommends display options to create a focal point. “We have taken onboard customer feedback to develop FSC wooden display units to house our products,” he says. “The display units give our products an all-year round footprint at retail and really help drive brand awareness.”

Licensing partnerships have also played their part in Ravensburger maintaining its position as number one in licensed and generic children’s puzzles, says Katy Fletcher, the company’s head of marketing and product development. “That is a reflection of our dedication to staying on top of trends, as well as keeping our evergreen offerings relevant and fresh,” she tells PPS.

The Bluey 4-in-a-box is currently one of Ravensburger’s best sellers, while in preschool games, The Gruffalo Deep Dark Wood game continues to be a strong performer. Festive fun is also on the cards with special Christmas edition puzzles for Peppa Pig and Thomas & Friends, while Disney Jr Ariel and Elmer both have 4-in-a-box puzzle editions. The company’s mini memory offering also continues to grow with a Moana 2 edition later this year and more to come in spring.

“Favourite characters are always a hit with families looking to engage preschoolers in play,” continues Katy. “Across both our games and puzzle portfolio our goal is always to work closely with our licensing partners to develop products that translate those characters or situations in an authentic and engaging way. And we keep up to date with what fans are seeing on screens now in terms of themes and tent-pole events. Quality too is key for this young age group who can often put toys through very robust play.”

Right: Robert Frederick has developed FSC wooden display units to house its products. Below:Match and Spell continues to be a top performer for Orchard Toys.

Proud to be B Corp

Mepal is proud to announce that it is now part of the B Corp community. This means we meet the highest standards of social responsibility, sustainability and transparency.

Joe Stalder – Country Sales Leader UK – j.stalder@mepal.com or call 07384 317364

Our products are being assembled by +400 people in local social workplaces

80% of our production takes place in the Netherlands

Mepal, the alternative for single-use plastic products

mepal.com

WHERE SUSTAINABILITY MEANS BUSINESS

What makes the Products of Change Conference (formerly SiLC) so different to the rest of the crowd? Quite simply, it’s where actions speak louder than words and industry leaders mean business.

The thing with the global brand licensing and entertainment industry is it’s never boring. Even when it’s at its most serious, and you don’t get much more serious than tackling climate change. Regulatory changes and their impacts upon business; the chemical composition of bio-based polymers and their impact on domestic recycling infrastructure; metrics for measuring scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions… For the past five years, all this – and more - has been Products of Change’s bread and butter. And given the rate of change and rapidity with which new learnings and discoveries are being landed upon across the world of ‘sustainability’ day after day, well… it’s

just as well we love bread and butter.

But no matter how serious these conversations become; you’ll never find them becoming dull. Because at the centre of it all is an industry

built on some of the most recognisable, most revered, and most cherished brands on the face of the planet. And we’re all here to secure our place and the future of our children upon it.

Which is why Products of Change is incredibly excited to be delivering its annual sustainability event, the Products of Change Conference to the breadth and depth of the

brand, licensing, product, and retail industries once again. Known over the years as the Sustainability in Licensing Conference, the Products of Change team has officially unveiled a new brand identity for this agenda-setting and era-defining educational and inspirational extravaganza, done so to better reflect the scope of the industries and business sectors our farreaching platform touches.

And for 2024, the Products of Change Conference – Sustainability in Brands, Licensing, Product and Retail will be setting that very tone with a line-up of speakers and representatives of some of the biggest, furthest reaching, and most impactful brands, retailers and product manufacturers on the planet.

Inset: The panels are taking shape with Primark, Tony’s Chocolonely and The LEGO Group among the first names to be confirmed.

So, what’s on the menu for Products of Change Conference 2024?

Having established its reputation as the only industry event dedicated to the sustainable development of the global sector through education, collaboration and connection, the Products of Change Conference will be making its return to the Royal Geographical Society in London on Wednesday, 6 November where it will deliver a jam-packed agenda to both in-person and digital attendees.

There to provide some of the most exciting industry updates is yet another roster of speakers, discussions and panel sessions featuring the brands, businesses, retailers, and leaders currently shaping the future sustainable landscape of business right now.

Primark, Tony’s Chocolonely and The LEGO Group are among the first names confirmed for the 2024 line-up, bringing new conversation around supply chain transformation and transparency; stakeholder and value chain collaboration; and the power of IP, branding, and storytelling when it comes to influencing a global audience of retail partners and customers to engage with social and environmental causes.

Tony’s Chocolonely will talk about its role as a social impact organisation ‘wrapped up as a chocolate company’ through pioneering levels of supply chain transparency and its call to action across the cocoa industry – including its recent plunge into brand licensing with Ben & Jerry’s –to deliver real-world impactful change.

Building on its reputation as “the most important industry event for decades”, the Products of Change Conference will go on to dive into critical subject areas including the latest wave of global legislation

and regulation –from Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Extended Producer Responsibility to the incoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and beyond – set to transform the business landscape as we know it; call on the international publishing sector (including FSC Blockchain, DK Books, and Carousel Calendars) to explore the EU’s new Deforestation Regulation and its impact on those industries built on wood fibres and paper; and embark on a thorough exploration of the high street fashion retailer Primark’s strive towards affordable sustainability.

2023 debut, the awards will be making its return to once again spotlight the pioneering brands and businesses making those impressive strides forwards in the name of sustainable development in alignment with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

“As Products of Change enters its fifth year, we are honoured to showcase the industry’s innovative solutions and achievements not just of the last 12 months, but in a cumulation of the past five years of industry development, too,” says Helena Mansell-Stopher, founder and ceo of Products of Change. “By continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible, we demonstrate the power of collaboration and highlight the incredible potential within our industry.”

Celebrating Climate Champions

Maintaining momentum right now is crucial. And what better way to encourage continued community collaboration than with the return of the Products of Change Member SDG Awards? Following its successful

2024 Winners will this year join ‘hall of famers’ like Wastebusters and the Tesco team which earned recognition at last year’s awards for their collaborative Recycle to Read plastic toy collection scheme; the Asda team for its concerted steps towards the repair, refurbishment, reuse and resale of items and consumer goods; The LEGO Group for its tireless commitment to cross-industry collaboration and partnership in the pursuit of sustainable development; and Carousel Calendars celebrated for its dedication to mapping its impact, sharing its processes, and becoming the first in the greetings sector to set science-based targets for emissions reduction.

Above: The POC Conference will return to the Royal Geographical Society in London on Wednesday 6 November.

Below: The winners of the inaugural POC Awards.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the industry’s sustainable future. To take part in the biggest conversation on Earth right now, book your tickets at: www.productsofchange. com/poc-sustainabilityconference/

SUSTAINABILITY

MODERN CLOTH NAPPIES

Hasbro has joined forces with Modern Cloth Nappies, winner of Progressive Preschool Awards’ Eco Award 2023 and gold winner of Best Reusable Nappy 2023 by Mother & Baby and Made for Mums, to create a new range of reusable nappies and accessories for Peppa Pig’s youngest fans. Product will be available at retail later this year.

info@modernclothnappies.co.uk www.modernclothnappies.co.uk

ECO RASCALS

MEPAL

Variety is the key to getting children to eat well and healthy. The Mepal lunchbox includes a separate bento food box and a removeable fork, offering plenty of meal options with the same box. You also have the option to choose from one of the many designs; from Disney to Little Dutch, all of which can go into the dishwasher so they are ready for lunch the next day.

The Mepal range of sustainable lunchboxes are made in The Netherlands, BPA-free and 100% recyclable. The sturdy products are built to last and replacement parts are available.

export@mepal.com www.mepal.com

MARY MEYER

Again Friends is new line of recycled plush toys that are both cute and eco-friendly. The characters are made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about giving them to your little ones. Each toy has a unique design that will delight and inspire imagination. Again Friends toys are soft and huggable, making them the perfect playtime companion.

info@marymeyer.com www.marymeyer.com

Introducing the eco rascals Stainless Steel Bento Box range, an eco-friendly and durable lunchbox designed for modern families. Made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel, it is 100% plastic, BPA and aluminium free, promoting sustainability and safety. With a 54oz (1600ml) capacity, removable LFGB silicone organisers and a top-rack dishwasher-safe design, it’s perfect for both kids and adults. The thoughtful design ensures no leakage and long-term use, making it a versatile and reliable choice for everyday meals. hello@ecorascals.com  www.ecorascals.com

MEPAL

The Mepal fruit box makes packing healthy snacks easy. It’s leakproof, easy for kids to open and comes with a removable fork. There are various designs to choose from, including Disney and Little Dutch, and it can be tossed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Mepal’s sustainable lunchboxes from The Netherlands are BPA-free, 100% recyclable and built to last, with replacement parts available.

export@mepal.com www.mepal.com

AThe Progressive Preschool Awards takes place on Tuesday 12 November 2024 at The Royal Lancaster, London.

nticipation is building for the Progressive Preschool Awards 2024, and the finalists in the much anticipated product categories have been revealed.

The product categories for this year feature 10 finalists for each of the 12 categories, demonstrating the quality of entries received on the online awards portal throughout the preschool sector.

The finalists for the product categories

are:

Best Preschool Apparel Range

Bluey x Primark from Aykroyds

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant SS24 Range from JoJo Maman Bébé

The Gruffalo SS24 Accessories for Asda from Brand International Group

The Gruffalo and Friends x Team GB SS24 Collection @ Asda by Aykroyds

Lilliputiens Children’s Backpack Range from Juratoys PAW Patrol Summer Sleeptime Range for Character.com from TDP Textiles

Peppa Pig at the Natural History Museum Range for F&F at Tesco from Blues Group

Peppa Pig by MORI from MORI

Peter Rabbit Baby Sock Range for Tesco from Misirli

Tiny Tatty Teddy SS24 Range for George @ Asda from Poetic Brands

Beth Read, social media manager, MORI:

"We’re absolutely over the moon to be a finalist! It’s a real honour to be recognised by such a respected award in the world of parenting and babywear. We’re also especially excited that our Peppa Pig by MORI collection has been nominated in Peppa's special 20th anniversary year. Since we first collaborated with the much-loved character last year, this collection has been a huge hit with parents and little ones, so we’re delighted it’s been recognised in this year’s awards."

Best Licensed Toy Range

Blippi from Tonies

CoComelon Peek-A-Boo JJ from Jazwares

Eric Carle Wooden Games from Robert Frederick

Hey Duggee Plush Range from Golden Bear

Ooni Pizza Oven from Casdon

Pip and Posy Plush Range from Bandai

Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo from Just Play

Shake It Bluey from LeapFrog

Spidey & His Amazing Friends Electric Bumper Car

Ride On from MV Sports & Leisure

Toomies Bluey Bath Range from TOMY UK

Hannah Hargrave, marketing executive, Casdon:

“We’re thrilled to hear that the Casdon Ooni Pizza Oven has been shortlisted in the Best Licensed Range Category. We’re really proud to be recognised by Progressive Pre-school, especially alongside so many incredible brands. The awards are always a highlight, and we’re grateful to be a part of it!”

Ben Gibson, managing director, Micro Scooters UK:

“We’re thrilled to see the Mini Micro range recognised as a finalist in the Progressive Preschool Awards 2024. It’s a true testament to our commitment to innovation and quality. This event highlights the best in the industry, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

Best Non-Licensed Toy Range

Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart from LeapFrog

Crocodile Creek Puzzles, Playballs and Arts and Craft Sets from Hippychick

Farmyard Wooden Toy Range from Orange Tree Toys

Fun Fair from Bigjigs Toys

Janod Barbecue from Juratoys

Little Timbers for Tesco from Hunter Price International

Mini Micro Scooter from Micro Scooters

Plus-Plus BIG from Plus-Plus

Smoby Activity Wall from Simba Smoby UK

Xootz Magical Unicorn Electric Ride-On from Wilton Bradley

Best STEM/Educational Range

102 Piece Rainbow Creative Pack from Connetix

Alphablocks Learning Toys from Trends UK

Buki France Mini Sciences Kits from Halilit

Crazy Forts Mega Kit from DKB Toys

Design & Drill Robot Workshop from Learning Resources

Janod Brico’Kids Big Robot DIY Workbench from Juratoys

Let’s Learn Natural History Museum STEM Kits from Galt Toys

Mr. Pencil’s Scribble & Write from Leapfrog

Outdoor Learning Range from Eduk8 Worldwide

Toyi Inventions STEAM Building Kit from Bigjigs Toys

Best Preschool Publishing Range

Bluey Publishing Range from Penguin Random House Children’s – Ladybird

CoComelon Publishing Range from Farshore, HarperCollins

Ditty Bird Interactive and Musical Sound Books from Ditty Bird

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Preschool Range from Penguin Random House Children’s

Have You Heard Of… Harry Styles Flip Flap, Turn and Play Books from Hachette Children’s Group

Numberblocks: Countdown to Bed from Sweet Cherry Publishing

Peppa Pig Magazine from Story House Egmont

Poppy and Sam Nature Sounds by Sam Taplin and Lizzie Walkley from Usborne

Spot Preschool Publishing Range from Penguin

Random House Children’s

That’s Not My Farm… from Usborne

Zoe Masters, publisher, brands and licensing, Farshore:

“We are hugely excited and proud to have been nominated as a finalist in the Progressive Preschool Awards; thank you to everyone who voted for us. Preschool is such an important age to encourage a lifelong love of reading. Our aim is to create CoComelon books that will engage and entertain, with some gentle learning along the way to ensure both happy children and parents.”

Best Preschool Home or Furniture Range

Chapter B Kids Club By Billie Faiers Debut Nursery

Collection for Tesco from Hunter Price International

Ciro from Uppababy

Elite Study Desk and Chair from Boori

Bluey Halloween Collection Exclusively for Asda from Dreamtex

Japandi Furniture Collection from Tutti Bambini

Kubbie Sleep from Joie/Alison Baby

Maxi-Cosi Toucan 3-in-1 Learning Tower from Dorel

Peppa Pig Bedding Exclusively for Next from Character World

SnüzPod Studio from Green Sheep Group

Alpha+ Highchair from Hauck

Best Preschool Gift Range

The Gruffalo Anniversary Gift Set for Asda From Roy Lowe

Kaloo Carre Douceur from Juratoys

Little Seedings Gardening Collection For Dobbies from Hunter Price International

Paddington for Baby Range from Rainbow Designs

PAW Patrol Gifting Range for Boots from H&A

Personalised Tiny Tatty Teddy Wooden Based LED

Light from Personalised Memento Company

Peter Rabbit Range from Orchard Toys

Peter Rabbit Silver Collection from Enesco

Warmies soft toys from Warmies

The World of Peter Rabbit x eatsleepdoodle Placemat

Helen Robinson, head of sales - UK & Ireland, hauck:

“hauck are super excited to be finalists in not one, but two categories in this year’s Progressive Preschool Awards. This is our first time entering the awards and to be among such illustrious company is an absolute honour. We can’t wait for the big day. See you in London!”

Best Wheeled Goods Range

Altima All-in-One Travel System from Ickle Bubba

Dryk Duo Plus from Hauck

iCandy Orange 4 from iCandy World

Maxi-Cosi Fame Premium Bundle from Dorel

Orfeo from Cybex

Reef 2 from Silver Cross

Roma Capsule 3 from Roma Prams

Urban Glide 3 from Thule

The WonderFold W-Range from Wonderfold

Wow 3 from Cosatto

Aylish Ellwood, trade marketing manager, Enesco:

“At Enesco we are delighted to be part of the vibrant preschool sector and so very excited to learn that our Peter Rabbit Silver Collection is a finalist in the PPS Awards. We love to receive such valuable recognition from an industry boasting so many great quality products, the awards being a truly fabulous platform for networking and to elevate brand awareness.”

Best Car Seat Range

All in All Ultra Rotate i-Size Car Seat from Cosatto

Anoris T2 i-Size from Cybex

BeSafe Beyond from BeSafe International

Cosmo 2.0 from Avionaut

Doona X from Doona

i-Size Top Tether Spin Car Seat from My Babiie

Sprint from Joie/Allison Baby

Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus from Dorel

Nuna PRUU from Allison Baby

One 3 from Axkid

Melissa Cooper, head of marketing, Joie Baby:

“We are delighted that our versatrax trio, kubbie sleep and new sprint infant carrier have all been named as finalists at the Progressive Preschool Awards. These awards are always vitally important to us as a brand, so just to be nominated is a real honour. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at the ceremony in November.”

Best Preschool Essentials Range

Brush-Baby Oral Healthcare Products from Brush-Baby Cloud B Cloud-Box Sleeping Aid from BTL Diffusion

Disney FUNtainer Collection by Thermos

MiniMies G5 Shoulder Carrier from MiniMies

Natural Start Bottles from Tommee Tippee

Omni Dream Linen Baby Carrier from Ergobaby

Right Temp Light Up Otter from Infantino

Trixie Silicone Tableware Range from Trixie

Sleep Bag Swaddler from Kyte Baby Übbi Diaper Pail from Übbi & Pearhead

Colleen Rea, UK and Ireland marketing manager, Galt Toys:

“We are thrilled to be finalists at the 2024 Progressive PreSchool Awards! At Galt, Infant Development and STEM learning are key areas of focus, and we take great pride in delivering best-in-class products in these categories, so we are delighted to be finalists with Galt’s Sea Saw Counter & Natural History Museum Let’s Learn Kits. Our collaboration with the Natural History Museum has been an exciting venture for 2024 that we continue to build upon and being recognised with another award for our sustainable wooden range for Galt’s See Saw Counter, would be an incredible achievement.”

Best Infant Development Range

4-in-1

Tummy Time Fawn from VTech

Trixie Wooden Silicone Sensory Toys from Trixie

Care Bears Baby Range from Sambro

Disney Baby The Lion King Range from Rainbow Designs

First Years See-Saw Counter from Galt Toys

Janod Box Range from Juratoys

Little Big Friends Playmat and Playgym from BTL Diffusion

Ocean Tummy Time Triangle from Melissa and Doug

Rolling Sensory Sorter from Bigjigs Toys

Tummy Time Musical Toys from Halilit

Andy Downie, commercial director, Dreamtex:

“We are absolutely thrilled to be finalists in the PPS Awards 2024. Our Bluey Halloween homewares collection was a first for us last year and we were delighted with the response from the market. We even had people videoing themselves trying to find our products in Asda stores! Due to the popularity of the collection, we have launched it again this year with new colourways and the demand has already begun with one video of our product hitting over 400k views. We are so excited for the awards and we’re so grateful for the nomination!”

The Eco Award

Aura Wrap Sustainable Range from Ergobaby Eco Babybols from Babymoov

Jungle Cubs Organic Muslin Squares from Bloomsbury Mill

LÄSSIG X Raddis Cotton Little One and Me Bathrobe from Lässig

On-The-Go Game Duo Garden Friends from Petit Collage

Organic Palm Moses Basket from Clair de Lune

Original Waxed Cotton Coveralls, Bibs & Napkins from Nana’s Manners

Pura Nappies and Nappy Pants from Pura Versatrax Trio from Joie/Allison Baby

Wilberry Eco Comforters from The Puppet Company

The winners will be revealed at a lavish lunchtime celebration at the Royal Lancaster London on Tuesday 12 November.

Tickets and tables for the event can be reserved easily and securely online by visiting

Max-Tickets.net or by contacting Clare Hollick at Create Events: clare@createvents.co.uk or +44 (0)1183 340085. It is recommended that you reserve your place(s) as soon as possible.

www.progressivepreschoolawards.co.uk #PPSA24

NURSERY

RAINBOW DESIGNS

Swooping in this month, is the magical Wizarding World collection of nursery toys and gifts featuring the world’s most famous young wizard, Harry Potter, Hedwig, Harry’s pet Snowy Owl and the popular free elf, Dobby. The range features plush formats including My First Soft Toys, Rattles, Comforters and Activity Toys, as well as Hogwarts house comfort blankets for Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. There are also further range additions planned for 2025. 01329 227300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

VTECHUK

BTL DIFFUSION

In honour of its 10th anniversary, the Cloud b Ocean Tranquil Turtle nightlight has been revamped into a rechargeable model, incorporating recycled materials and enhanced features. The new Tranquil Turtle projector nightlight now offers four calming sounds and includes a smart cry sensor, designed to help lull children to sleep and create a serene environment in their rooms. contact@btl-diffusion.co.uk www.btl-diffusion.co.uk

TRUNKI

Trunki has teamed up with Hasbro has part of the 20th anniversary celebrations for preschool favourite, Peppa Pig. The company is introducing the Peppa Pig Party Bus Trunki, with the aim to bring laughter and happy travels to preschoolers across the world. The Peppa Pig Party Bus Trunki is designed and made in the UK and comes with a five-year guarantee.

claire@trunki.com www.trunki.com

With the new VTech RM7787HD Over-the-Cot Smart video baby monitor which features a 7” 720p HD display, parents can effortlessly stay connected to their children whether at home or away. To relax your babies, the monitor provides soothing sounds and lullabies including a trickling stream and white noise, fostering a serene environment for restful sleep. Touch the light icon and the adjustable night light provides a comforting ambiance for baby. The monitor includes temperature and humidity sensors to monitor nursery environment, ensuring your baby’s comfort with visible levels on the screen. Stay connected with your baby through the twoway talk, offering comfort and reassurance even when you’re physically absent. joel.lucy@vtecheurope.com www.vtechbabycare.com www.leapfrog.com

BIBETTA

Bibetta is expanding its range of plush products for newborn babies with the addition of a new Plush Feeding Mat. With its mega-soft ‘teddy bear like’ outer and a 100% waterproof inner layer, the mat helps protect the bed when breastfeeding or if baby gets dribbly and messy on the floor during tummy time. The mat complements the award winning Plush Burp Cloth and Plush Newborn Bib, now with new eco-packaging. Available in two colourways.

enquiries@bibetta.com www.bibetta.com

KAHLMI

With the increasing popularity of baby massage in the UK, this new product from bébélephant is set to do well. The Kahlmi Baby Massager is a nurturing tool designed to help parents soothe their babies through gentle massage. It features calming vibrations, making it ideal for use at home or while traveling. The massager is particularly beneficial for promoting relaxation, reducing fussiness, lessening teething pain and enhancing bonding between parents and their babies.

info@bebelephant.com www.bebelephant.com

MAMA BAMBOO

NURSERY

MAXI-COSI

Maxi-Cosi’s latest collection brings effortless style to any modern home. The new Minla Plus and Home Equipment Collection features a beige colourway and has been inspired by nature, with elegant wood accents and soft, eco-friendly fabrics made from 100% recycled materials. The Minla Plus’ enhanced features include a one-hand rotating tray and easy-in harness hooks, while the modern design fits seamlessly into any home. The collection also features the Iora Air, Cassia, and Kori, offering both function and style.

UK-sales@doreleurope.com www.maxi-cosi.co.uk

VITALBABY

Vital Baby has introduced EarthSmart, a revolutionary biodegradable plastic technology designed to reduce landfill waste. With only 9% of plastic recycled globally, EarthSmart offers a sustainable, eco-friendly solution without sacrificing style, quality or affordability. The 100% recyclable baby products empower parents to make conscious choices, ensuring that even if items reach landfill, they biodegrade without harmful residues. The range will be available later in the year.

hello@vitalgroup.co.uk www.vitalbaby.com

Mama Bamboo is the world’s highest scoring B-Corp nappy brand, the only disposables brand to be awarded the Ethical Company certification by The Good Shopping Guide and the highest score from the Ethical Consumer magazine.

Launching Mama Bamboo, bébélephant believes it has found the perfect blend of sustainability, performance and convenience to make your life and your baby’s life that much better today and tomorrow.

info@bebelephant.com www.bebelephant.com

LATCHLIGHT

Achieving a proper latch can be especially challenging when you’re sleep-deprived. LatchLight’s gentle, warm glow minimises sleep disruptions for both you and your baby and is wearable so your hands are free to hold and position your baby. Its flexible, soft silicone tip helps you easily adjust your baby’s lips for an improved latch. Plus, the glow-in-the-dark design ensures you can always find it, even in the dark.

info@bebelephant.com www.bebelephant.com

future of family travel

Timeless and pioneering, the Fame pushchair is designed to give luxurious levels of comfort for both baby and parents. Fame’s premium details, seamless design, modern aesthetics and innovative features have been designed to stand the test of time. A trailblazing pushchair to take families into the future.

• Fame pushchair

• Carrycot

• Pebble 360 Pro2

• Changing bag

• Cup holder • Phone holder

• FamilyFix 360 Pro

• 2-in-1 Footmu

• Car seat adapters

• Rain cover

Fame is available in Twillic Black, Twillic Graphite and Twillic Truffle in different bundle options from June 2024. To find out more, contact your sales representative at UK-sales@doreleurope.com Fame A future design icon: discover the Premium bundle

Best sleep comfort for baby

The most luxurious sleep comfort for your baby from birth.

LumiRide system

The LED light system is integrated into the iconic frame, illuminating dark streets and dimly lit pathways.

Ergonomic seat

Fame’s ergonomic seat o ers a lie-flat position and HD foam inlay for luxurious comfort.

Power-up on the go

Keep your phone charged with the integrated powerbank, so you can always stay connected.

Close2Me adjustable carrycot

Designed to be used by parents of every height.

SlideTech® travel system

Fame fits our most innovative 360 Pro car seats, designed with SlideTech® technology.

ClimaFlow seat

The supportive ClimaFlow backrest features breathable mesh to maximise ventilation.

TOYS NEW PRODUCTS

WILTON BRADLEY

Transform any door into a magical theatre stage with the Playhouse Theatre Curtain. The role-play curtain fits any standard UK door frame with its extendable rod. It includes stick puppets and a fold-up shelf, ideal for imaginative play for ages 3-8. Kids can dazzle their audience, experience buying and selling with play money and learn math skills. After playtime, simply remove the rod and roll up the curtain for easy storage. sales@wiltonbradley.com www.wiltonbradley.com

JURATOYS

RAINBOW DESIGNS

Paddington will be on many Christmas wish lists this year, with the Paddington in Peru movie arriving in cinemas in November, and little fans are sure to love the new Mini Play-sets which have joined the bestselling Adventures of Paddington toy range. The Letters to Aunt Lucy play-set, that features Paddington and Pigeonton, and The Paddington’s Kitchen Adventures set, that includes Chef Paddington and his best friend Jonathan, as well as some of Paddington’s favourite yummy treats, will provide little ones hours of imaginative fun.

01329 227300

www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

HASBRO

Get ready to play with Peppa’s Muddy Puddles Party interactive doll. The 12-inch doll can talk, play, sing and dance with your little ones, sparking their imagination and getting them moving. With over 55 sounds, phrases and reactions, kids can easily switch between two play modes by placing Peppa’s iconic yellow boots on or removing them. The interactive electronic toy for girls and boys comes with 4 AA batteries and is available at most major retailers.

https://products.hasbro.com/ en-gb

Bursting with the cutest farmyard characters, the range features more than 10 engaging toys (aged 12 months+) including the Farmers Market, Pull-Along Tractor, Threading Beads – Vegetable Garden, My First Farm – Chicken Coop and not forgetting the interactive Magnetic Pets & Magnetic Farm Animals. sales@juratoys.co.uk www.janod.com

PLAY-DOH

Introducing the Play-Doh Pizza Delivery Scooter, a kid-powered ride-on scooter which is also a PlayDoh pizza play-set toy. The toy oven at the back of the scooter features stamp and spin action for creating pretend pizzas. Kids can take an order with the cell phone, box it up and place it in the side slot for delivery, then sound the horn upon arrival. The set includes 10 modelling compound colours and 16 pretend accessories for imaginative play.

https://products.hasbro.com/ en-gb

TOYS

BABY ALIVE

Introducing the Baby Alive Crawl ‘n Play baby dolls - Harper Hugs, Tilly Tinker and Katie Kat. Press the button on their back to make them crawl and hear over 40 cute sounds. If left alone for one minute, they will make sleep sounds before dozing off. Give them a pretend drink from their sippy cup and hear munching sounds, or roll the toy bee along the floor to watch its wings flutter up and down. Each doll is sold separately. https://products.hasbro.com/en-gb

UNIVERSITY GAMES

The Learning Journey My First Match It! Range from University Games has been created for the earliest preschool age of two years through to age six. The Match it! Counting Cupcakes, Heads and Tails and Dinosaur Friends, through to Match It! 3 Letter Words, Spelling, and Mathematics games, feature two to six-piece self correcting jigsaw puzzles that only fit with their correct pair, encouraging independent play and building confidence, as well as providing an introduction to letters and numbers, all making fun foundations for school. 0207 254 0100 www.university-games.co.uk

ORCHARD TOYS

The Orchard Toys’ Giant Number extra-long number jigsaw helps preschoolers and school-aged children learn numbers from one to 20. The 1.7-metre puzzle features 20 chunky pieces and includes 20 cut-out numbers for interactive learning. It comes with a giant wall poster and a learning guide filled with fun activities. Perfect for building number recognition and counting skills. Suitable for ages 3 and up.

sales@orchardtoys.com www.orchardtoys.com

ZIGGLE

Ziggle’s super-soft plush baby rattles are suitable from birth and make the perfect baby gift. The bestselling range now includes Highland Cows and Easter Ducks. Made with super-soft velboa plush, the cute toys include a hidden rattle that makes a noise when shaken, perfect for stimulating babies senses.

Ziggle has also launched a new range of 17cm recycled plush toys (bunnies, ducks and puppies). Super-soft, they are perfect for little hands to hold and cuddle up to.

customercare@ziggle.co.uk www.ziggle.co.uk

DATE: TUESDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2024

LOCATION: ROYAL LANCASTER, LONDON

JOIN US FOR THE PROGRESSIVE PRESCHOOL AWARDS 2024

The Progressive Preschool (PPS) Awards is the premier event for the preschool product and retail sector, bringing together over 400 industry professionals to celebrate outstanding achievements. This hugely popular ceremony is the perfect opportunity to network, honour excellence, and reflect on the past year’s successes.

WHY ATTEND?

The nomination and voting process is conducted via external voting as well as in-person judging panels, leveraging the expertise of the industry’s own professionals to ensure the highest levels of integrity - as well documented.

FINALISTS ANNOUNCEMENTS

BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Secure your place at the PPS Awards 2024 today!

To book tickets or tables, contact Clare Hollick at Createvents - clare@createvents.co.uk or reserve your tickets online via the Max Publishing digital Box Office - scan the QR code below

Stay tuned - finalists for each category will be revealed soon on Preschoolnews.net. Make sure to keep an eye out for the announcements!

Questions?

Talk to the team:

Rob Willis - robw@max-publishing.co.uk

Samantha Loveday - saml@max-publishing.co.uk

Jo Cassidy - joc@max-publishing.co.uk

Beatrice Råvik Janzon, director of product management at Thule Group, on creating something unique from scratch and entering a completely new field and meeting the company’s products ‘out in the wild’.

“OUR JOB IS A BALANCE THAT IS BOTH CHALLENGING AND VERY FUN”

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN YOUR CURRENT ROLE?

Five years in my current role, but 10 years within the company.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT AT THE COMPANY?

For me personally it has definitely been the launch of Thule car seats. We got the opportunity to create something unique from scratch and, in parallel, build a complete team of experts as well as building the knowledge within the organisation in a, for us, completely new field.

FAVOURITE PART OF YOUR JOB?

Meeting our products on the streets, at the beach, in the park and getting feedback from parents on product features that they love.

WHO IS THE UNSUNG HERO OF THE COMPANY?

Our global chief designer CMF, Ellen Frisch, who works magic on creating a portfolio of products that harmonises so well together across everything from Thule, and who manages to create a sustainable colour story that feels relevant over the long lifetime of our products.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHANGE WITHIN THE NURSERY/PRESCHOOL INDUSTRY THAT YOU HAVE SEEN SINCE YOU HAVE WORKED IN IT?

This industry is an ever changing field with a lot of innovation and added comfort and smart features offered to make parents’ life easier. In a world where we also have higher focus on safety, sustainability and clean material around children, it makes our job a balance that is both challenging and very fun to work with.

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

Spend as much time as you can with your children when they are young - the only decision in life you will never regret.

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

The strength of a team when you bring a lot of highly skilled professionals together from all different disciplines - this is when magic happens.

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT THE NURSERY/PRESCHOOL BUSINESS, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

More clear requirements from legislations to ensure a higher safety level across the market. I think it would help the parents when entering the jungle of baby products to make the right choices based on what they love and things they find useful for their family.

“ This industry is an ever changing field with a lot of innovation and added comfort and smart features offered to make parents’ life easier. ”

WHAT THREE WORDS WOULD YOU USE TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF AND WHY?

Curious - of life in general, whether it means an undissolved area at work or just exploring a new city; Energetic - I feel passionate about what I do and thrive on being around creative and ambitious people; Caring - I am a mother of three plus our furry fourlegged daughter.

Right: Beatrice Råvik Janzon.

Lilliputiens creations are full of unexpected details and activities, a constant source of wonder, discovering and learning.

Juratoys UK Ltd.

Tel: 0208 878 2133 E: sales@juratoys.co.uk

BEST SELLERS

“Our best selling products at the moment will be the Oyster 3, Cybex Balios, Cybex Cloud T Car Seat and the Joie Finiti Travel Bundle. Of all time, it would have to be the Oyster 3. Amazing product, great colour range and budget friendly.”

NEW AND OLD FRIENDS

“Our longest standing supplier is Babystyle/ egg and our newest is Nuna.”

ONLINE/OFFLINE

“At the moment, we would say our business split is about 70-30 in favour of the store.”

SHOP LOCAL

“We must say that word of mouth and the desire of our customers to shop local has had the biggest impact on our growth in the last two years. Most people would rather shop with us than go to national retailers.”

LILYCUDDLES IN NUMBERS

Having been an online only operation up until 2022, Lilycuddles marked two years of its baby showroom in Wellingborough in September. Founder Solomon Soyinka runs some key numbers for PPS.

IN NUMBERS

• “There are just the three of us running the store.”

• “Our average spend per customer is £389.”

• “Our last delivery was four pallets. Our last delivery to a customer was 24 boxes.”

• “We do not have a window display, but we change the look of the store and brand display regularly just to keep things fresh.”

• “Our store is probably the size of four McDonald’s restaurants put together.”

2024 SO FAR

“The last 12 months have been great for us, considering we just turned two. We have expanded our showroom, brought in more brands and increased our furniture range on the shop floor. Most importantly, our revenue has increased and to cap it all, we received a rising star award recognition from Cybex.”

BEING SOCIAL

“Social media is an integral part of our business. It is surely becoming the go to search platform for parents-to-be who are looking for first hand information on the products or items they are interested in. For us, we use it to showcase the human side of our business, promote and advertise our product range.”

MY HERO!

“We have got a few stand out hero products, but currently it will have to be between the Oyster 3 Travel System Bundles and the egg3.”

Above: The showroom has expanded over the last 12 months.

Above: The range of furniture on the shop floor has increased this year.

Above: Lilycuddles has just celebrated two years in its showroom.

Above: The Oyster travel systems are among the current bestsellers.

Above: Lilycuddles has recently received a rising star award from Cybex.