"It goes without saying how valuable the day was and I would like to thank everyone involved for taking the time to organise it, for inviting myself and for having the foresight of seeing the future benefits to be gained from holding it. I wish that more manufacturers and suppliers were as pro-active.

If I am to be really honest, I came with few expectations but I’m always interested to hear views from a cross section of people as I believe that is a way to grow, learn and develop. It was refreshing to be asked what nursery retailers are looking for and whilst I could only comment on my views and those that I’ve listened to in the past from other nursery retailers; it was nonetheless a constructive exercise.

It’s difficult to say in which areas Sunshine Kids can improve because deliveries are speedy, very rarely incomplete and good margins can be achieved. Shops are supported by a strong and effective marketing campaign, so it was really left to explore what else could be done to maximise sales for everyone in the future.

We explored the possibility of retailer sales incentive schemes and staff incentive schemes all of which have worked well with other manufacturers in the past. I mentioned joint marketing ventures with other brand products, where there is a synergy with the products and this has again been successfully implemented in the past with other suppliers.

After much discussion, we broke off for a lovely lunch and then Ian Morley took us to see the new warehouse and this was also an opportunity to take in a bit of the January sunshine! It came as no surprise to me to see that the warehouse was well stocked and organised.

After lunch we resumed and continued to analyse and see how/if it was viable to implement the initiatives discussed during the morning. I left feeling that at last, here was a company that really, truly wanted to make a difference and actually listened to what the nursery retailers needed and wanted. It probably isn’t a coincidence then that Sunshine Kids are already getting it so right.

Other manufacturers out there should take note that their retailers have lots of answers to many of the problems, if they only took the time to ask them for their thoughts and views and listen to what they have to say."

Hotline: 01827 839140

Web: www.skjp.com

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