SCHOOLWEAR BUYER: THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION FROM THE SCHOOLWEAR INDUSTRY
39: News
46: Laura Turner speaks to Emma Robertson, head of design at BMB.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 - 37
Children’s shoes
www.froddo.com
MODA
NEC Birmingham Stand H41 Hall 17 6 - 8 August 2017
UK Distributor: KidsNewShoes.com Ltd E: info@kidsnewshoes.com M: +44 (0)7796 766669 T: +44 (0)1707 888388
With the market moving to a more modern tailored cut, make sure you don’t miss the trend. Switch to the David Luke senior range with stylish fitted eco-jackets and slim fit trousers - approved by both parents and fashion-conscious teens.
School approved senior styles.
New Ultra slim fit boys senior trouser Introducing the new ultra slim boys senior trousers (DL955) for back to school 2017. We’ve listened to the market and further slimmed down our Senior slim fit trousers, complementing and growing our trouser range.
The best styles and fit for today’s market.
• Available in black & grey • Sizes (even sizes only) – waist 26” to 36” regular length – waist 28” to 36” long length
• Limited stock available for back to school 2017 • Same great durable eco fabric as all our trousers
Order today for back to school delivery whilst stocks last at davidluketrade.com or to request a sample for 2018 delivery, call 0161 272 7474.
Durability in mind. Ethics at heart.
SCHOOLWEAR | CWB-ONLINE.CO
Schoolwear NEWS:
DAVID LUKE SUPPORTS WOOD STREET MISSION
The latest news from the schoolwear industry. THE MAGIC TOUCH TEAMS UP WITH REGATTA
UK outdoor clothing brand Regatta and the Regatta Professional team recently collaborated with image transfer experts The Magic Touch to research the best options to decorate Regatta’s growing range of jackets and garments. Whilst embroidery is, and remains, an option for outdoor products, there is growing demand for full colour logos, personalisation, lower order sizes and quicker turnaround. There is also the issue of selected garments no longer being 100 per cent waterproof when penetrated by embroidery needles. A key factor established during the research was the importance of avoiding any marking or scorching whilst applying transfers using the traditional heat press method. With many of the new polyester and performance fabrics being very sensitive to heat and pressure, this issue was resolved with application temperatures as low as 110-120°C. —
NEWS IN BRIEF
ROWLINSON EMPLOYEE SHORTLISTED FOR IIP AWARD Nicola Ryan, head of people services at Rowlinson Knitwear, has been shortlisted in The People’s Award for Manager of the year category in the Investors in People (IIP) Awards 2017. Nominated for being an “exemplary ambassador for Rowlinson”, Ryan is responsible for the metamorphosis of the company’s HR into an outstanding People Services function. Overseeing IIP Gold and Workplace Wellbeing Charter reaccreditations and a Rising Star EO award, her impact on results include employee satisfaction up from 34 per cent to 100 per cent; expected turnover £13m in 2017; profits up from £200,000 to over £1.5m and customer satisfaction at 98 per cent. Ryan is also the figurehead of the company’s apprentice scheme and in preparation for growth introduced Rowlinson’s first management programme in 2016. An awards event announcing the winner will take place in London in late November. —
UNIFORM ADDITIONS GENERATES FUNDS FOR SCHOOLS In light of cuts to school funding from the government, school hair accessories brand Uniform Additions has developed a concept to help parents fundraise for their children’s schools. When a school signs up with Uniform Additions, it is provided with a unique discount code to share with parents on Uniform Additions’ website. For every purchase made on www.uniformadditions.com using the unique code, the brand will donate 20 per cent back to the school. The Uniform Additions range includes hair clips, hair ties, head bands and basic hair accessories, all available in a choice of 15 school uniform colours. —
— King Edward VI School in Morpeth, Northumberland, is returning to a uniform of blazers and ties in September, a tradition previously held by the school. The change was approved following consultation with staff, parents and students. Head teacher Mark Simpson welcomes the decision, confident that it will set standards and promote equality.
Manchester schoolwear supplier David Luke has partnered with local children’s charity Wood Street Mission on its flagship SmartStart Back to School project, which supports children living below the poverty line. David Luke’s contribution to the project is providing 2,500 children with uniform and other school necessities in time for the new school year. The uniform will be distributed through a home delivery scheme and Back to School shop, which opens for two weeks in August. There will also be two pop-up shops held in community venues in Gorton and Eccles, both areas of high child poverty. In addition to providing the charity with logistical help to deliver the project, and volunteers to run the Back to School shop, David Luke has made a £1,000 donation to SmartStart to mark the start of the new partnership and is organising fundraising activities. —
TRUTEX CONTINUES ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGN As part of Trutex’s anti-bullying campaign #bTRU2u and its support of The Diana Award anti-bullying ambassadors’ programme, the company has commissioned research from 1,318 teachers, parents and pupils on their attitudes to school uniforms. Key findings from the study include nine out of ten teachers believing school uniforms play an active role in reducing bullying, with 95 per cent saying it helps students “fit in”. Two thirds of parents think wearing a school uniform puts students on a level playing field and makes their lives easier. And, while six out of 10 children aged 6-15 years preferred to wear their own clothes, nearly half admit a uniform does reduce bullying. Children in the first year of secondary school, meanwhile, prefer wearing uniform so they don’t stand out. —
— New school footwear brand Term Footwear has launched a filmed advert to promote its Back to School collection. Highlights from its range of Chromium free shoes, which are available in a choice of designs and fastenings, include an extensive size range, double-dyed leather to maintain appearance and insoles designed for all-day wear. A range of warm, high quality wellies with a roll-top, removable sock are also available.
— As part of a new ‘positive behaviour’ policy, Merchants’ Academy in Bristol is making pupils wear signs around their necks stating “I have 24 hours to sort out my uniform” if what they are wearing does not meet regulations. Examples of breached uniform policy have included wearing brightly coloured headbands and shoes that appear too shiny.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 - 39
A CLASS ABOVE
SCHOOL GEAR
Jerzees Schoolgear offers outstanding quality, choice, lifetime value, availability and standards of ethical production. Smart, durable, comfortable and designed for decoration – that’s why Jerzees Schoolgear by Russell Europe is A CLASS ABOVE. COME AND VISIT US on the PenCarrie stand at the Schoolwear Show and collect your limited edition School bag packed with Russell Schoolgear information and samples.
RUSSELLEUROPE.COM
V-NECK SWEATSHIRT 272
V-NECK KNITTED PULLOVER 710
DAVID LUKE LTD
‘Made for the adventure of learning’. Charles Kirk both manufactures and supplies premium stock and specialised knitwear, sweatshirts and accessories that can be embroidered or printed in-house or at source. Tel: 01903 244863 Email: sales@charleskirk.co.uk www.charleskirk.co.uk
David Luke are a leading supplier of School Uniform and Sportswear to retailers throughout the UK. With a focus on products with Eco credentials that make a difference environmentally through the supply chain, we have Durability in mind. Ethics at heart. Tel: 0161 272 7474 Email: sales@davidluke.com www.davidluke.com
BLUE MAX BANNER q
CHARLES KIRK
Brand quality school sportswear, without any branding! Selling to the schoolwear reseller only, all available from UK stock with no minimum order. Our core iGen PE kit is available in 10 stock colour combinations. Tel: 01619272565 Email: sales@chadwicktextiles.co.uk www.chadwicktextiles.co.uk
DAVID LUKE LTD q
CHADWICK TEXTILES LTD
AMAYA SALES UK q
BMB is launching an innovative suiting collection, a new contemporary outerwear jacket, and exciting new additions to the APTUS performance sportswear range. In addition to its extensive high quality stock supported ranges, BMB offers a comprehensive bespoke service. Tel: 0333 7000 888 Email: sales@bluemaxbanner.co.uk www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk
CHARLES KIRK q
BLUE MAX BANNER
Amaya Sales UK will be showing their latest range of Melco embroidery machines together with the new OKI white toner printer and Forever Transfer paper. Excellent additions for your engraving business. Tel: 02392 590281 Email: sales@amayauk.com www.amayauk.com
1880 CLUB q
AMAYA SALES UK
‘Made for the long term’ 1880 CLUB is one of the UK & Ireland’s leading schoolwear manufacturers offering a comprehensive range that is designed and built for the classroom yet durable enough for the rigours of the playground. Tel: +44 (0) 28 9332 7777 Email: enquiries@1880club.com www.1880club.com
CHADWICK TEXTILES LTD q
1880 CLUB
Over 20 years of experience in manufacturing high quality, durable fabrics and garments. Specialists in the fleece and schoolwear market. Tel: 0116 2510121 Email: info@diamondtextiles.co.uk www.diamondtextiles.co.uk
Eskimo EPOS is one of the leading suppliers to Schoolwear Retailers across the UK providing them with effortless stock control in store and online. Tel: 01202 477111 Email: sales@eskimoepos.com www.eskimoepos.com
We do a wide range of back to school sportswear and clothing. If you can’t find what you are looking for in our catalogue or web page please contact us. Tel: 0116 278 0562 Email: akeuropasports@aol.com Email: joeuropasports@aol.com www.europasports.co.uk
FALCON SPORTSWEAR LTD
GARDINERS
GFORCE SPORTSWEAR
Falcon Sportswear Ltd supply both stock and bespoke Sportswear aimed at the Primary and Secondary School markets. Visit our stand to see what’s new for 2018. Tel: 01274 306440 Email: webenquiry@falconsports.co.uk www.falconsports.co.uk
Gardiners distribute leading lifestyle brands of schoolwear and accessories to the retail trade, worldwide. Tel: 01452 727 300 Email: sales@gardinerbros.co.uk www.gardinerbros.co.uk
GFORCE Essentials allows schools to create their own unique sports kits and stand out from the crowd. With costeffective pricing across the Essentials range, you can bring your school team’s identity to life. Tel: 0116 255 6326 Email: Sales@gforcesportswear.co.uk www.gforcesportswear.co.uk
HALBRO SPORTSWEAR
INNOVATION SCHOOLWEAR
JERZEES SCHOOLGEAR
Nearly 100 years of manufacturing the latest materials & new designs to produce a fantastic range of sportswear for a wide variety of sports. On-site embroidery & print for all corporate & team wear. Tel: 01204 696476 Email: sales@halbro.com www.halbro.com
With 50 years of schoolwear wholesaling behind us we are proud to continue supplying top quality school uniform with excellent stock availability and competitive prices to boot! Tel: 020 8887 8778 Email: sales@innovationschoolwear.co.uk www.innovationschoolwear.co.uk
Jerzees Schoolgear is the perfect choice for schoolwear offering outstanding quality, choice and lifetime value. Smart, durable, comfortable and designed for decoration – that’s why Jerzees Schoolgear by Russell Europe is A CLASS ABOVE. Tel: 0800 252248 Email: sales@pencarrie.com www.pencarrie.com
FALCON SPORTSWEAR LTD q
GARDINERS q
GFORCE SPORTSWEARq
HALBRO SPORTSWEAR q
INNOVATION SCHOOLWEAR q
JERZEES SCHOOLGEAR q
EUROPA SPORTS q
EUROPA SPORTS
ESKIMO EPOS q
ESKIMO EPOS
DIAMOND TEXTILES LTD q
DIAMOND TEXTILES LTD
KT Labels Ltd, providing all your labelling needs for schoolwear, footwear, trophies and garments. Easy to use printers and optional keyboard for use without a computer. Come and see us this year at The Schoolwear Show 2017. Contact: John Baines Tel: 0121 689 2211 Email: john@kwiktapeslabels.com
Labfax is the official UK distributor for Cab GmbH supplying Cab label printers and Cab label print & apply systems to a wide range of industries. We supply the Epson ColorWorks range alongside Cab textile printers and an array of consumables to suit. Tel: 0845 519 2410 Email: sales@labfax.co.uk www.labfax.co.uk
Lollipop and our popular Primrose bow hair accessories for school enable stockists to gain valuable additional sales. With over 35 styles in 10 colours we have everything covered! Stands available. Tel: 01494 447000 Email: sales@primrosemktg.co.uk www.primrosemktg.co.uk
MAGICFIT
MAPED HELIX
MARTON MILLS CO LTD
UK manufacturers of quality school socks and tights. The complete one-stop schoolwear and sock knitwear supplier. Tel: 0116 277 3857 Email: info@magicfit.co.uk www.magicfit.co.uk
Helix has been synonymous with quality educational products for 130 years and now offer a choice of 3 of the world’s most recognised education brands; Helix, Oxford and Maped, along with a wide range of fun licensed school stationery. Tel: 01384 286860 Email: customerservices@mapedhelix.co.uk www.mapedhelix.co.uk
British Weavers of Quality fabric. Offering a diverse range of stock supported and bespoke textiles in a variety of compositions and designs. Tel: 01132 843 364 Email: enquires@martonmills.co.uk www.martonmills.co.uk
NATIONAL WEAVING
NETDIGITIZING UK LTD
OPTIMUM
UK Manufacturer of woven nametapes and printed labels for easy identification of school uniform. Quality products, sensible pricing, easy ordering and fast delivery even in peak times. Tel: 01834 861 446 Email: sales@nationalweaving.co.uk www.nationalweaving.co.uk
Schoolwear badges delivered in 7-10 days* at unbeatable prices. We offer free quotes and free layout changes. Call us now on 08003687414 and get your first order at 15% off. Tel: 0800 368 7414 Email: sales@embroiderybadge.uk www.embroiderybadge.uk
Optimum Design UK Ltd, incorporated since 1996 are manufacturing specialists in Sports Protection, Teamwear, Footwear and Sports Accessories, supplying all of your school wear and apparel requirements with an unparalleled level of service, supply & delivery. Tel: 01942 497707 Email: enquiries@optimumsport.com
MAGICFIT q
MAPED HELIX q
MARTON MILLS CO LTD q
NATIONAL WEAVING q
NETDIDITIZING UK LTD q
OPTIMUM q
LOLLIPOP q
LOLLIPOP
LABFAX q
LABFAX
KT LABELS LTD q
KT LABELS LTD
RESULT CLOTHING
ROWLINSON KNITWEAR LTD
New for BTS 2018 is the girls Marley double strap sandal (size 32-42) as well as up-dated styles in the ever popular boys/mens County range from 32 to 52. Quality you can trust. Tel: 01234 240 440 Email: sales@aegisshoes.co.uk www.pod-footwear.com
Shower and windproof, this new super soft, lightweight and warm ready-to-brand R233J&Y jacket is ideal for wet and windy days. Features include a hinged inner neck panel for self-branding, reflective hip detail and integral hood. Tel: 01206 865605 Email: enquiries@resultclothing.com www.resultclothing.com
Performa 50– Brilliant Performance and Exceptional Comfort Rowlinson is proudly showcasing Performa 50, our premium knitwear brand offering a 4-5 week delivery on special orders, supported by the fastest embroidery service in the schoolwear market. Tel: 0161 477 7791 Email: sales@rowlinson-knitwear.com www.rowlinson-knitwear.com
SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION
STABILO
THEMAGICTOUCH (G.B.) LTD
The Schoolwear Association represents the interests of all those involved in the manufacture and supply of school specific uniform. Established in 2006, the Association is run on a voluntary basis by some of the sector’s most experienced professionals. Tel: 0121 474 4200 (Trudy Bryan) Email: Info@schoolwearassociation.co.uk www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk
STABILO International GmbH is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of writing instruments, and is part of the SchwanSTABILO Group. STABILO manufactures ranges for writing, colouring and highlighting perfect for going back to school. Tel: 01753 605 679 Email: sales.uk@stabilo.com www.stabilo.com
The world’s original image transfer company offer affordable solutions for all aspects of garment and associated product decoration. These include toner and sublimation products together with a vast range of flex and flock products. Tel: 01582 671444 Email: sales@themagictouch.co.uk www.themagictouch.co.uk
POD FOOTWEAR q q
SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION
PIONEER SCHOOLWEAR q
POD FOOTWEAR
ROWLINSON KNITWEAR LTD q
A British company that has been running its own schoolwear garment factory in mainland China for 12 years. Contact: Lorna Lowe Tel: 07957 101607 Email: enquiries@pioneerschoolwear.com www.pioneerschoolwear.com
THEMAGICTOUCH (G.B.) LTD q
Established in 1935, Pex has the UK’s most comprehensive collection of Back to School socks and tights. Tel: 0116 2861616 Email: info@pex-kids.com
PEX q
Distributor of schoolwear from top brands AWDis Academy, Beechfield, BagBase and Quadra. Visit our stand to receive a free Junior Reflective Bobble Beanie. Tel: 0800 252248 Email: sales@pencarrie.com www.pencarrie.com
RESULT CLOTHING q
PIONEER SCHOOLWEAR
STABILO q
PEX
PENCARRIE q
PENCARRIE
TOP TO TOE
TRUTEX LTD
TIE & SCARF COMPANY
Our specialist system has been delivering EPOS and stock management solutions to the schoolwear sector for over 25 years. Come and try out our new product! Tel: 020 3376 5888 Email: sales@toptopotoe.com www.toptotoe.com
Visit Trutex to discover our latest product developments, enhancements to service and marketing initiatives to help support your business through 2018. Tel: 01200 4212000 Email: sales@trutex.com www.trutex.com
Tie & Scarf Company supply most of the prestigious independent schoolwear/ sports retail shops, plus embroidery companies within the U.K with school ties scarves and badges. Tel: 0161 761 5151 Email: tieandscarf@chaytow.com www.tieandscarf.co.uk
WILLIAM TURNER
WINTERBOTTOM’S SCHOOLWEAR
YES LTD
See our range of stock and bespoke tartan at the Schoolwear Show 2017. 15th – 17th October. Tel: 01254 390700 Email: info@winterbottoms-schoolwear.co.uk www.winterbottoms-schoolwear.co.uk
15 - 17 OCTOBER 2017, CRANMORE PARK, SOLIHULL
ZECO SCHOOLWEAR
Opening Times: Sunday 15th October 2017: 9:30am - 5:00pm Monday 16th October 2017: 9:30am - 5:00pm Tuesday 17th October 2017: 9:30am - 4:00pm
For over 40 years Zeco has provided quality school uniform at competitive prices with a personal customer service. Our complete range is stocked and available with next day delivery. Tel: 01708 739 390 Email: sales@zecoschoolwear.com www.zecoschoolwear.com
TIE & SCARF COMPANY q
TRUTEX LTD q WINTERBOTTOM’S
SCHOOLWEAR q
TOP TO TOE q
For more information on the show or to register visit www.theschoolwearshow.co.uk
WILLIAM TURNER q ZECO SCHOOLWEAR q
Yes Ltd is the UK supplier of industrial embroidery machines from the world’s leading manufacturer ‘SWF’, the industry leader in direct to garment printer solutions ‘DTG Digital‘ and the show stopper bling machine ‘SpangleElite’. Tel: 01632 863343 Email: reception@yesltd.co.uk www.yesltd.co.uk
YES LTD q
Family-led business, William Turner returns with an impressive stock range and nearly 50 years in UK manufacturing. Look out for some new exciting products and preview their 2018 brochure. Tel: 0161 480 8582 Email: sales@william-turner.co.uk www.william-turner.co.uk
CWB-ONLINE.CO | INTERVIEW
EMMA ROBERTSON HEAD OF DESIGN, BMB
Laura Turner meets the design talent behind the UK’s largest supplier of schoolwear. — BETTER BY DESIGN Laura Turner: Emma, you joined SWI Schoolwear as a designer in 2014 and now hold the title of head of design. What experience do you bring to the role? Emma Robertson: I studied for my degree at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), completing a four-year course in fashion design with first-class honours. During my third year, I interned in the couture department at Alexander McQueen and improved my tailoring skills at the Savile Row tailor English Cut. I also spent seven months working on school, sports and leisurewear design with the SWI team. During my degree I was fully trained in pattern cutting, garment manufacture, design, illustration and CAD, and in my final year I chose to specialise in menswear with sportswear. Fortunately, my role as head of design allows me to get involved with every aspect of the development process and the experience I’ve gained from working in various areas of the fashion and garment industry have helped me become a much more rounded designer. LT: Who makes up your design team? ER: We have an extremely talented, young and 46 - AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
vibrant team on board here in the Runcorn office. Our designer, Chloe, graduated from Northumbria University specialising in sportswear design; she was also shortlisted by the university for the Fashion Innovation Award at Graduate Fashion Week. I am delighted to say that my sister will also be joining our expanding team, having just graduated from UCLan herself. In addition, she has been selected as the winner of the Lancashire Arts Festival Award for Fashion Design, as a finalist in the Sainsbury’s TU Label competition and was also nominated for the Gala Show at London Graduate Fashion week. Since graduating from UCLan myself, we have worked hard to create a strong relationship with the university, developing an internship programme to support students during their third year of study by providing them with vital industry experience. LT: Where do you source inspiration? ER: When planning our concepts for new ranges, we’re inspired by a variety of platforms. The high street has major influence over the garments we design, as it’s important the clothing has details that are relatable to current fashion trends. We are also influenced by social changes, articles and forecasted trend information. Another method we use to
gather insight is holding focus groups with schools and students. This is the best way to collect primary direction for our concepts, allowing us to be confident with the design decisions that we’re making. Ultimately, it’s important that our products are aspirational, comfortable and perform well.
A NEW CLASS IN SCHOOLWEAR LT: BMB acquired SWI Schoolwear last July; what changes and developments have occurred over the last year? ER: Essentially, the efficient and successful integration of the two businesses. Despite its size and reputation as a schoolwear provider, BMB has always lacked the facility to innovate in terms of design. One of the most exciting developments for BMB, as a result of the SWI acquisition, is that we are now able to offer a cutting edge design service. This will enable us as a group to genuinely lead the market in schoolwear and sportswear, not only through our sheer size, but with our passion for product innovation. LT: What would you say are BMB’s Schoolwear’s core capabilities? ER: BMB is now the largest supplier of
INTERVIEW | CWB-ONLINE.CO
schoolwear in the UK. It has achieved this position across the entire supply chain – through size and subsequent buying power, access to competitively priced quality fabrics, great relationships with factories that deliver on quality and on time and, top of the priority list, a genuine and dedicated commitment to customer service. What was missing from the equation prior to the SWI acquisition was a stock supported performance sportswear range, in-house design, product development and marketing. We are now able to boast a dedicated design team who concentrate solely on developing and producing market leading ranges. LT: What does BMB Schoolwear encompass? ER: It covers the entire spectrum for all types of schools; primary, senior, academies and independents. We offer everything from school uniform to performance sportswear, available from stock all year round, in a wide range of sizes and colourways and with the depth of range to dress a student from head to toe. Garment personalisation and a comprehensive in-house bespoke service is also available for schools requiring a unique individual look. LT: What can we expect from BMB Schoolwear for Back to School 2018? ER: We’ll be launching a selection of new garments bearing the traits of our original approach to design at the Schoolwear Show in October. Some of these new styles offer additional support to our existing offer and others form new ranges. We want to encourage buyers to come to the Schoolwear Show and see the product for themselves, so that they can feel the new fabrics and experience the quality first hand. However, without giving too much away, I can provide some insight. On the school uniform side, our newest development is the new Signature Suiting Collection. For boys, this comprises a jacket and trousers and for girls, a jacket that can be paired with either a trouser or a choice of two
skirts – straight or pleated. This durable collection caters to those looking for a stylish cut, with fabric that performs. We’ve taken the trusted Ziggy’s fabric, which is already part of the BMB collection, and combined it with a modern suit jacket style. The jackets offer a contemporary feel, with features including slimmed down lapels, pocket flaps, with a single button front opening for girls and two buttons for boys. Both the girls’ and boys’ trouser options offer a choice of a classic cut or a contemporary, slimmer fit and they all have adjustable waists to ensure a perfect fit. Elsewhere, we’ve added four new items to the APTUS Performance Sportswear range. The Swacket is a side-line garment that is essential for outdoor training; a new everyday football short features moisture-wicking fabric that moves with the wearer; while our new rugby shirt and short are both created using embossed fabric and reinforced seams. We are also introducing a new outerwear jacket, a replacement for the Mistral, which is a contemporary, water-resistant hooded jacket with soft fleece lining and silver reflective details.
SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN SPORTSWEAR LT: Moving onto the sportswear side of the business, how does BMB maintain a competitive edge in this fast-moving market? ER: We listen to our customers and act on what they say. We held several focus groups across schools that encouraged under-16s to speak openly about sports kit and how they could be improved. What we found was that there were a huge amount of students who were conscious about the way they look and didn’t feel that the school sportswear on offer motivated them to participate in sports. This precipitated the thinking behind APTUS Performance, a collection that fuses fashion with functionality, designed specifically to empower rather than inhibit students on the sports field.
LT: What are the most in-demand fabrics coming through in school sportswear? ER: Quality fabrics with functional elements. Polyester is an ideal fabric for sportswear, and the main material used within the APTUS Performance range. It boasts a huge amount of benefits, being durable, lightweight and anti-wrinkle, as well as cost competitive. It has effective wicking properties, meaning the perspiration from the body is wicked to the outer side of the fabric and is then air-dried. It is also offers a stable base for decoration, which is really important for school personalisation applications. LT: What are the latest trends in sportswear for the educational market? ER: During our focus groups, we discovered that what students were choosing to train in during sport outside of school, was very different to what they had to wear during curriculum sport. Consequently, the APTUS Performance collection responded to this with a school sportswear collection that offers girls’ leggings – as opposed to training pants – and also adjustable length tops. For boys, we designed loose fitting shorts and slim fit track pants, which is what they preferred. We want students to take a real pride in their school sportswear and we are confident they will with APTUS. LT: Are there any areas of the school sportswear market you feel are lacking? ER: I think the female sportswear area within schools has often been overlooked in the past. Female specific sportswear had always been a bit of an afterthought, though this is definitely beginning to change. The variety of sports offered through physical education has evolved significantly and the sportswear garments on offer need to keep up with the pace. The launch of the Sport England This Girl Can campaign coincided with our design development and gave us a real sense that we were on the right track with our vision for our APTUS Performance range. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 - 47
INFORMATION | CWB-ONLINE.CO
www.superfit.at
NAMES & NUMBERS:
Big responsibility for your feet. Kids can only have fun in sturdy shoes that can keep up with all of their adventures. That’s why, as one of the most successful manufacturers of children’s shoes, Superfit pays so much attention to perfect workmanship and the highest quality materials. We take quality very seriously. Because after all, we take big responsibility for your feet.
MODA Stand G40 6th to 8th August 2017 Terry McIntosh +44 (0) 7957 834 348 terry.mcintosh@legero.at * The result is based on the analysis of 342 returned evaluation forms with the stipulated rating scale: good, average and bad.
A Aden + Anais 020 3735 7576 www.adenandanais.co.uk • Anchor & Fox 0061 4184 55955 www.anchorandfox.com.au B Barn of Monkeys 00351 2520 20430 www.barnofmonkeys.com • Bebe Bombom 07800 909422 www.bebebombom.com • Bibi 07712 647298 www.bibi.com/en/ • Billy Loves Audrey 07711 746276 www.solobi.co.uk • Bimble Shoes 07866 493173 www.bebebombom.com • Birkenstock 07899 904765 www.birkenstock.com • Blade & Rose 01539 730880 www.bladeandrose.co.uk • BMB 0333 7000888 www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk • Bobux 07808 730176 www.bobux.co.uk • Born Bespoke 07968 199284 www.bornbespoke.com • Bunks 0800 0433112 www.bunkstrunks.com C Childrenchic 001 917 680 2099 www.childrenchic.com • Cienta Kids 07786 541810 www.cienta-kids.co.uk • Cooee Kids info@cooee-kids.com www.cooee-kids. com • Cradle & Tonic 07989 972901 www.cradleandtonic.co.uk • Cribstar 07841 356385 www.cribstar.co.uk D Darlo 07968 393984 www.darloethicalbabywear.com • David Luke 0161 272 7474 www.davidluketrade.com • D for Diamond 01376 532000 www.geckojewellery.com • Donsje Amsterdam 07970 383188 www.littleicons.co.uk • Doodle Do 01923 820411 www.ilovedoodledo.com • Dotty Dungarees 07769 973579 www.dottydungarees.com E Easy Peasy 07929 415784 www.belvarbrands.com • Eva & Indie 07950 677441 www.evaandindie.com F Frugi 01326 558462 www.frugiwholesale.com • Froddo 07796 766669 www.kidsnewshoes.com G G. Nancy 07970 383188 www.littleicons.co.uk • Gosoaky 07970 383188 www.littleicons.co.uk • Gro Company 07970 383188 www.littleicons.co.uk • Great & Small Clothing 07887 768265 www.greatandsmallclothing.co.uk H Hibou Home 01580 243188 www.hibouhome.com I Ipanema 020 7377 2570 www.zaxyshoes.co.uk J Joules www.joules.com K Knoknoknok 0034 6509 06141 www.deunoadiez.com • Koh 0052 4777 166521 www.kohworld.com • Kokacharm 0082 1041 761085 www.kokacharm.com L La Basketry www.labasketry.com • Liewood 020 3137 3503 www.vida-kids.co.uk • Little Jack Baby Clothing 00351 9376 25019 www.littlejackbabyclothes.tictail.com • Little Zi 001 908 232 3876 www.littlezi.com • Loola & Goo info@loolaandgoo.co.uk www.loolaandgoo.co.uk M Mimi & Lula 07974 453960 www.mimiandlula.com • Minene 020 845 87764 www.minene.co.uk • Mini A Ture 07711 746276 www.solobi.co.uk • Moccstars 020 7736 4022 www.moccstars.com • Mori 028 2502 2149 www.babymori.com P Pablosky 0034 9257 84377 www.pablosky.com • Pinokio 0048 6683 39463 www.pinokio.net.pl • Poco Nido www.poconido.com • Pop Cutie 020 3137 3503 www.vida-kids.co.uk R Red Urchin 07810 565999 www.redurchin.co.uk • Ren But 0048 7687 878 11117 www.renbut.pl • Rice rice@ricebyrice.com www.rice.dk • Rockahula Kids 01462 429744 www.rockahulakids.com • Rowlinson Knitwear 0161 477 7791 www.rowlinson-knitwear.com • Ruby and Freddies 07904 106883 www.rubyandfreddies.co.uk S Sass & Belle 020 7346 0100 www.sassandbelletrade.co.uk • Scholl 01604 876800 www.marrum.co.uk • Smalls 020 7002 7799 www.lovemysmalls.com • Sonny Angel 0034 6509 06141 www.deunoadiez.com • SquidKids 07903 442526 www.squidlondon.com • Sticky Lemon 0031 5983 95948 www.rillagorilla.nl • Stitch & Story sales@stitchandstory.com www.stitchandstory.com • Superfit 07775 995547 www.superfit.at T Tane Organics 001 646 573 8764 www.taneorganics.com • Term Footwear 01202 578900 www.termfootwear.com • That’s Mine 0045 3161 9160 www.thatsmine.dk • The Essential One 01204 300768 www.theessentialone.com • The Magic Touch 01582 671444 www.themagictouch.co.uk • The Tiny Universe 020 3137 3503 www.vida-kids.co.uk • Titlee 07925 828008 www.cartableenfants.com • Too Many PJs www.toomanypjs.com • Trutex 01200 421 2000 www.trutex.com U Uniform Additions 01442 873280 www.uniformadditions.com • Unisa 07872 534343 www.unisa-europe.com W Wex Baby 07515 032224 www.wexbaby.co.uk • Wildfire Teepees www.wildfireteepees.com • Wolf & Son info@wolfandson.net www.wolfandson.net • Wonderers 07900 664629 www.wonderers.co.uk X XTi 0034 9687 18313 www.xti.es Y Young Soles 020 7749 0903 www.youngsoles.co.uk Z Zinc 00359 8986 62173 www.lima.bg
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GRACE TINDALL Founder of Scandibørn Grace Tindall on her new online lifestyle boutique, Scandibørn, which brings Scandinavian-inspired children’s design to the UK. —
Scandinavian living and interiors, it places value on buying products that will last years and fulfil different needs as our lives change. We’d spent a long time getting our home just perfect and having children seemed to open the door into a whole range of eyesores we didn’t want lying round our living room. We felt there was a gap in the market for people like us who wanted to be able to create playful and stylish spaces for their children, which fitted with their homes. LT: What does Scandibørn offer? GT: We sell over 50 brands online, many of them exclusive, catering for the whole journey from pregnancy into parenthood. Our full collection spans furniture, soft furnishings, textiles, wall decor, high chairs, robes and towels, homewares, play mats, tableware, toys, teepees, slides, nursery accessories, baby toiletries, changing bags, gifts for mums and dads plus much more. Laura Turner: What’s the story behind Scandibørn? Grace Tindall: My husband James and I launched Scandibørn in August 2016 when a combination of factors came together at the right time. Maternity leave gave me some much needed headspace to think about my career – the life we wanted to build post-kids – and it also allowed me to formulate a business plan. Simultaneously, James was made redundant and we decided to invest the very small payout, take a leap of faith, and go for it. LT: Are either of you from retail backgrounds? GT: I was previously a management consultant for a big US-based IT firm, obviously a totally unrelated industry, so it took me a bit longer to work out the dos and don’ts of retail. In the same vein, it gave us advantages, too; I had to go with my instinct and use the skills I’d already gained – project management, contract management, delivery to tight timelines and never accepting ‘no’ as the final answer. James’s previous experience is in PR and marketing, so our combined skill set has worked well. LT: Where does your love of Scandinavian design come from? GT: We have a few close friends that live in and around Copenhagen, so it’s been our go-to summer destination for about six years. Regular travels to Scandinavia and searching for pieces for our son highlighted the lack of Scandi-inspired design available in the UK. We love the whole ethos that surrounds 50 - AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
LT: What are your current bestsellers? GT: One of our bestsellers is the bbhugme pregnancy pillow, which was developed by chiropractors and can be used in pregnancy, nursing and beyond – it’s top of our list for expectant mums. The Sleepyhead of Sweden Pods are new to us and are literally flying off the shelves. The contemporary ball pits are available in more colours and are proving popular. Liewood’s stylised animal range of hooded towels, dressing gowns, music mobiles and bed linen are definitely up there; plus our You’ve got this Mama charity mug, which is a perfect new mum gift and supports the Coppafeel! charity. LT: What do you look for in the brands that you stock? GT: The first thing I wrote in my notebook when I started to build the idea of Scandibørn was, ‘Who are we?’ I often go back to that page when I’m undecided about a product or brand. Everything we sell has to knit together with the clean, Scandi aesthetic. We’ve had a clear focus and ethos from the beginning and always ask two questions about a brand: Would we buy it? and Does it fit the Scandi brief? If either answer is ‘no’, it’s not coming in. We want people to feel inspired when shopping with us and that starts with knowing who we are and staying true to it. LT: What’s driving growth for Scandinavian design? GT: Unlike other trends, the heart of Scandinavian design is the creation of long lasting classics that don’t go out of fashion.
It’s definitely changing the way we think about furnishing and decorating our homes in a less disposable way and that’s the main reason it won’t just be a flash in the pan. LT: Last month, you took part in a business seminar at Bubble London discussing how to grow an interiors business. Can you reiterate some of the advice? GT: If you’re a retailer, be true to the values of your brand. At Scandibørn, we will only sell pieces that blend together and adhere to the Scandi aesthetic. We often come across products I know will sell instantly, but don’t fit into our brand values. Choose big ticket furniture items that have longevity and supplement these with smaller soft furnishings and textiles when customers want to update their children’s spaces. Finally, don’t be afraid to introduce colour: Scandinavian design doesn’t have to mean solely muted and monochrome. LT: Can you tell me more about Scandibørn’s recent US launch? GT We found many of our sales were coming from the US, so we launched scandiborn.com specifically for this market allowing customers to shop directly with us in US dollars. Standard delivery to the US is within 3-5 days, which we believe is unbeatable service. LT: Would you ever move into bricks and mortar? GT: It’s a challenge to stand out online and it’s only getting more competitive. Sometimes, I’d adore to have a storefront; the creative in me would love to have the chance to style a physical store. However, what I love about online is that there are no limitations. I’ve been able to create a perfect aesthetic, ensuring our site reflects our brand to a T and shows off our products in the best possible way. LT: What are your plans for Scandibørn? GT: The a/w 17 range and US launch are our immediate focus, but we do have some other exciting developments we’re working on. We’re also planning to open more localised versions of the webshop in other territories. LT: What would be your advice for a kidswear retailer wanting to introduce lifestyle product? GT: Do it slowly by introducing smaller items to test the water. Everyone needs a baby blanket or a dual purpose play mat, either for expectant, new mums or gifting purposes. Start with the lower value items and take it from there.
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