September was an exciting month for the Nursery Industry team. We went to Cologne for our first ever Kind+Jugend, where we saw a whole host of exhibitors bringing a range of exciting products to market. There was a real buzz in the air as retailers worldwide came armed with their order books in the hope of lining their shelves with all the latest 'must haves'. 

Tickets are now on sale for the Baby Products Association's annual Awards Dinner and Party night - a firm date for your calendar on Sunday 11th October 2009.Taking place at the prestigious Tower Guoman Hotel on the banks of the River Thames, exhibitors and retailers will gather together in anticipation to hear the judges' decision as winners of the Baby & Child Recognition Awards (BACRAs) and Nursery Retailer of the Year are announced. This year will prove particularly challenging for the judges, with over 100 fabulous new products already nominated.

The team at Little Helper is celebrating after its new sleepwear range ‘Baby Boum' won its first award in the UK. Popular parenting website www.madeformums.com has given Baby Boum its five star seal of approval. A panel of mums tested two different variations of the product - the patchwork Cotty and the cute Wendy design and concluded that Baby Boum products have - "Beautiful and original designs, good quality sleep-safely fabrics, built in convenience features for different sleep set-ups and a long life span making the Baby Boum sleeping bag a great investment buy."

The Kurvi from Petite Star picked up Best Buy awards from Mother & Baby, Prima Baby and Pregnancy & Birth last month.

Gopak has recently achieved certification to ISO 14001:2004 - the standard for Environmental Management. "This has been achieved through the company's dedication to eco-friendly manufacture and distribution of its market leading lightweight furniture," said a spokesperson.

Hippychick has scooped 3 Golds, 2 Silvers and 1 Bronze in the Practical Pre-School Awards 2009. Each product entered was tested in at least two separate settings by children and practitioners.

A three day International Interdisciplinary Conference, The Nutrition & Nurture in Infancy & Childhood will be held on 8th - 10th September at Uclan, Grange Over Sands, Cumbria.

Cuddledry featured in the first episode of ‘Dragons Den on Tour' last month - a new series which looks at how entrepreneurs who have faced the dragons are faring. Having turned down three offers of investment from the dragons in 2006, Cuddledry is one business which has gone on to prove that you can do it by yourself. With one in every 20 babies in the UK now being bathed with a Cuddledry apron-style baby bath towel, and the ever-expanding range of Cuddledry towelling, bath, beach and swim time products being sold in 30 countries, it seems the dragons are missing out.

Graco is proud to support the registered charity Mothers4Children to help give children a better start in life. The baby and parenting essentials brand has donated a one-off custom design of its new premium stroller, Symbio, to be auctioned in a special online event run by the charity.

It has been reported that, despite the recession, the number of trade visitors to K+J increased by more than seven per cent this year. Around 18,000 trade visitors from 95 countries came to gain an extensive overview of the market, creating a very positive atmosphere at the stands of the 781 exhibiting companies.

Jöran Lundh, the genius behind Lascal's market leading products has been designing innovative, imaginative products for over 17 years. The first KiddyBoard was launched in Sweden in 1992 and Lascal has been forging ahead ever since.

Today, the Lascal portfolio encompasses a whole range of truly ingenious products for parents - from the very latest BuggyBoard® to the KiddyGuard^TM ‘invisible stairgate' and the cutting edge Lascal M1 carrier^TM.

Each new Lascal product has either revolutionized the nursery sector it has entered, or created an entirely new one.

You began trading in London's Spitalfields Design Market 8 years ago and can still be found there on a Sunday, while your store in Carnaby Street is open seven days a week. Both venues are real design hubs, famed for their eclectic sense of style - did you find inspiration there in the early years?

I wasn't a designer and didn't set out to work in such fashionable places, it happened by accident really! My background was in Performing Arts and I wanted a creative outlet so, 10 years ago I began creating slogan tee-shirts for adults, then I started doing a few for babies and it grew from there.

But some good news is there appears to be early indicators of a light at the end of the economic tunnel and some more great news is we have an absolutely brilliant show waiting for all of you in London.

Swatting up on the company en route to London, I was suitably impressed by WOW's credentials as a UK toy manufacturer. Owned by Nadim Ednan-Laperouse this global company remains committed to innovation, design and quality in the pre school area, refusing point blank to deal with multiple and discount retailers that ‘pile it high and sell it cheap' to the detriment of the brand. Having long championed the efforts of the independent toy retailer, WOW wants to do exactly the same in our sector, hence my visit to its brand new West End base.

How do you select the right products for your target market? And how much is enough? Nursery Industry finds out what wholesalers can do for you.

In recessionary times, retailers often have a requirement to be fed little and often. Unwanted stock in the warehouse or gathering dust on the shelves is, after all, money down the drain.

Baby Brands Direct has become the ultimate modern on-line wholesaler with its efficient and easy to use website making ordering stock quick and simple for busy retailers. The company ensures detailed information and pictures are presented with each product so that the retailer is confident in both buying and selling the item.

We supply wholesale orders offering a next working day delivery for orders placed before mid-day and a 48 hours courier delivery to UK mainland.

We supply large orders to retailers, catalogue companies as well small independent retailers who only require small orders. In challenging times it is essential to have a product you can rely on and which offers a generous profit margin.

Based in Lancashire, Ministeps UK is a family business focussing on the design, manufacture and distribution of an exclusive range of moses baskets, co-ordinating bedding and nursery accessories. With nearly two decades of experience, Ministeps UK has earned itself an unrivalled reputation in the wholesale market and as a result boasts many of the leading retailers in the UK and overseas as clients.

Babybase Wholesale is a family run business with over twenty years' experience in the nursery trade. We hold good stocks and distribute the products of over 60 manufacturers so you can fill most of your buying needs with just one order.

The birth of a new baby spreads a real sense of joy. I remember receiving cards and presents from people I barely even knew - all of my mother's work colleagues sent a gift; friends of friends; neighbours I only said ‘hello' to in passing - you name it, just about everybody connected with me wanted to say ‘Congratulations!' The house was filled to the brim with cards, balloons, flowers and presents, the kindness and generosity of which was much appreciated.

With an ever-expanding choice of baby products on the market, selecting the perfect gift for new parents and their baby can be daunting. Child-safety product manufacturer Clippasafe has a number of practical ideas that offer safety and peace of mind.

Noah's Ark has been a classic toy for a new arrival throughout the ages.

Branching Out^TM from John Crane Ltd is now set to sprinkle its own magic on this traditional toy. The wooden ark with a metal decking and roof is the ideal vehicle to house the charming wooden animals - two by two of course!

Since their introduction to the UK and Ireland in 2004 Taggies comforters, books and toys have become some of the best-selling, most-treasured accessories or gifts for every new baby.

Bright Yellow Oopsie Daisy is the latest exclusive design to join the growing Taggies Colours Collection.

If you are looking for fun, unique and educational gifts for babies and young children, look no further than FunToSee^TM sticker products. Our wall décor stickers are easy to apply; removable and repositionable; splash-proof and washable; and make great gifts.

Tippitoes launched its Mini Bath to instant acclaim at Cologne. After considering a range of product ideas the Company believes that in the Mini Bath it has the optimum solution for safely and comfortably bathing the very young. Willing "Guinea Pig", Sue Black mother of 4 including newborn Barney commented: "It's incredibly easy to use because it gives you a free pair of hands without the worry of the baby slipping down as it offers support.

When looking for an innovative gift for a new baby, what could be more valuable than a present which will encourage mum to give him the best gift of all - breastfeeding?

The Janet Theodore Breast Feeding Pouch allows mums to confidently breast feed their babies in public, safe in the knowledge that their modesty is protected. It is designed to enhance a mother's experience of nurturing, with a large attached privacy blanket and generous sized pouch with plenty of room for a growing baby.

When looking for that extra special gift for a new arrival Miracle Scarves and Bands from Yes! SuperBaby offer a unique solution. Worn by the parent and played with by baby, Miracle toys provide both with important bonding time. Designed to educate, stimulate and entertain they provide a multi-sensory experience with bold colours, interesting textures and exciting sounds for baby to explore.

There's no better way to remember a child's special day than with Enesco's brand new Classic Pooh photo frames inspired by the famous rhyme honouring the Days of the Week.

Established distributor CN Sales & Marketing has been appointed as the UK distributor for the range of infant development toys, play mats, buggy toys and cot mobiles from Jollybaby.

Jollybaby is an established global brand that understands little ones and their needs and strives to design and develop products designed specifically for babies and toddlers from birth to 3 years old.

Freya Design's wooden memory boxes are a wonderful, lasting gift for newborn babies, christenings and birthdays. The range, all designed in the UK, are made from only the finest New Zealand pine and European alder and birch.

Our sumptuous snuggle robes and towels are perfect for bath time.

Our silky soft micro fleece robes embellished with striped seersucker trims and polka dot ribbons are fully lined with soft cotton jersey. They feature pockets, a generous hood and a felt motif.

In fact, the repetition found in music, lullabies and every day household sounds are said to remind baby of their mother's heart beat in the womb, going on to play a key role in bonding and social development. Research indicates that many babies who are played classical music experience higher cognitive development, while a strong correlation between music instruction and higher academic performance has also been found.

Young children love fun music, bright colours and lights, so Chicco's new Singing Orchestra is the perfect musical toy from 12 months plus. Based on the instruments and their sounds, babies can enjoy this bright and interesting toy, pressing buttons to hear the fun rhymes and tunes as the instruments introduce themselves and their musical sound.

Halilit high quality Children's Instruments are the ideal way to introduce a child to the joys of making music. You're never too young to start.

Our colourful Rattles and Shakers are ideal for babies; some are even suitable from 3 months.

babyboomboom familiarises young children with words and sounds of a second language through music.

Simple and fun songs on CD, available in English and a choice of other languages - French, Spanish, German, Italian or Polish.

Budding baby Bach's will have everything they need for an impromptu tune with the Musical Instrument Set by Branching Out from John Crane Ltd.

The set comprises eight different instruments, enough to bring any nursery alive with sound. There are maracas, a tambourine, jingle bells, a triangle, castanets and much more.

Vital to baby's development, music is an important feature in the popular Playgro^TM range of developmental nursery toys. Music encourages listening skills, stimulates imagination, improves coordination and enhances general well-being.

Whether you are looking for some great new nursery product lines or some fabulous toy and gift ideas to enhance customer impulse purchases, then BPA Baby & Child 2009 is the ultimate one-stop-shop.Returning to London this year, the show, which takes place at ExCeL from 11-13th October, is a great opportunity for nursery retailers to view all of the latest products under one roof and do some valuable business networking at the same time.

At this year's BPA Baby & Child Show, Tippitoes is showcasing its brand new pushchair, EZE. Exceptionally affordable, with a whole host of practical functions, the EZE Pushchair has already received much interest and is set to become the must-have item for nursery retailers.

Britax, which has been at the heart of passenger safety for over forty years, will be showcasing a number of new and exciting developments at this year's BPA Baby & Child show in London, which are set to add an extra dimension to the car seat and wheeled goods market in 2010.

ASPACE is establishing partnerships with quality independent nursery retailers who are trusted specialists in their location and who understand the importance of excellent design and service.

Managing Director Paul Cunningham answers your questions on this exciting development.

Practical Media Services is designed to be the ideal outsourced solution for all of your marketing needs.

We aim to relieve you of some of the time consuming but vital aspects of promoting your business, allowing you to focus on running it. And that's not all, as a small agency we can focus upon providing a very personal and prompt service with each project being given the individual attention and time that it deserves.

Skibz, makers of the stylish dribble bib that looks like a fashionable bandana, are launching a new organic range specifically designed for newborns and young babies.

The Cheeky Rascals' stand is set to be as busy as ever this year, packed with lots of exciting new products.

New to Cheeky Rascals, Merino Kids will be showcasing their baby sleepwear. Merino is a wonder fibre that regulates temperature to keep baby cool in summer and warm in winter. It also breathes and controls moisture, improves sleep routine and reduces skin allergies. It's no wonder the Cocooi Babywrap and GoGo sleepbag from Merino Kids are set to be big hits.

If you're looking for new innovation, first class safety products and some welcoming friendly faces, make sure you stop at Dorel's stand at BPA.

How can you resist? Try this best-selling mild and gentle natural babycare range - everything you need including our degradable eco nappy sacks, bodywashes, bubblebaths, body lotions, creams and biodegradable wipes. The range has won several prestigious awards, has a loyal following amongst mums, looks so cute on your shelf and offers great value for money. Fresh & Wild (WholeFoods UK) say "Earth Friendly Baby is our most popular baby toiletry range, its affordability and efficacy bring our customers back time and time again". Leading the trend towards more natural/eco products - make this your best-selling baby toiletry range!

Come and see us on stand H35 and we'll show you why the Cot Canopy has been such a hit with new parents. The multi award winning Cot Canopy is a life-saver for parents who know how disruptive travelling can be to a baby's sleep routine.

First shown at the BPA Show in 2004 Taggies comforters, books and toys have become one of the best-selling gift ranges for nursery retailers everywhere. Now there's Taggies Babywear too!

Parents can breathe sigh of relief thanks to a new way to get their children into their car seat groan-free! The NEW aqua paint play surface from ‘kiddy' fits onto the top of the car seat's cushioned impact shield, which is an integral part of an award-winning car seat safety system. This new accessory encourages children to get creative and play as they sit comfortably in their ‘kiddy infinity pro' (for c. 9 months to 4 years) or kiddy comfort pro (for c. 9 months to 11 years).

It's that time of year again and Hippychick will once again be showcasing their ever-increasing range of quality nursery products.

Everything is designed to make the daily life of parents and children brighter and easier in line with their slogan ‘Just add life'. The CONCORD Collection 2010 includes many new designs for child car seats, buggies and kids' furniture in materials bearing the ‘Proved Materials' seal. Their quality is stringently tested by CONCORD in accordance with EC 300 criteria.

Dandelion Clothing Co, are suppliers of gorgeous newborn baby clothes and accessories including Bibs, Shawls and cuddle wraps. Our premature baby wear range starts from sizes 1-2lbs in weight and is made from 100% cotton. Dandelion are also one of the largest distributors of Keel & Aurora Soft toys. Many of which are suitable for babies from birth. Our basic range of products is always available in stock and we aim to deliver within 1-2 working days. Our range can also be purchased online via our website www.dandelionclothing.co.uk

BPA Baby & Child will be the first chance for many retailers to see Chicco's new 2010 collection featuring the UK launch of a number of brand new products including travel systems, nursery furniture and car seats.

Buzzy Brush Educational Oral-Care for kids is a new and important brand, focusing on oral-care products for babies and toddlers first teeth.

New product launch

The Musical Baby Toothbrush with gentle vibrations is designed to keep babies teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Let's face it whether you're a consumer, retailer, distributor or manufacturer we all have one thing in common, we like good quality, practical and most importantly affordable products that sell and sell well.

Eleanor's Closet, offers unique and thoughtful children's gifts ranging from award-winning personalised books, hand-painted art and photo-jewelry, to educational toys and music, innovative craft kits, eco-friendly and organic baby care products and clothing, wall décor as well as an exclusive line of kids' bedding handmade in the UK.

An innovative new product is set to put parents' minds at ease when it comes to their baby's temperature. Babyglow has designed a range of sleep suits, clothing and bed-ware that provide a visual indicator for parents to tell if their baby is overheating - a product that speaks every language through colour.

This newly developed product has been designed to help reduce the number of scalding accidents involving children. The device works by restricting the ability to operate a domestic hot tap to adult users.

BabiesBlankets.co.uk offers a wide range of products to give everyone the chance to create a haven for the new infant in their lives. With our abiding commitment to quality, design and value, BabiesBlankets.co.uk is a leader in the infant bedding and room decor market. Our varied collections range from the traditional to the contemporary designs. Visit us at Stand LP65

We are the UK's sole distributors for Thailand's No.1 Balm.

We are launching an unrivalled balm for babies and children. This is new to the UK, available for the first time exclusively through us.

Dr Bee Electronic Nasal Aspirator for babies and toddlers makes use of its strong yet gentle suction to free up the nasal passages allowing easier breathing and restful nights, leading to quicker relief and wellbeing. The apparatus is easy to use and allows for safe and quiet suction making the entire experience comfortable for the baby, even whilst asleep.

Parents need settle for old fashioned Moses baskets no more thanks to Shnuggle.

Shnuggle debuts at BPA Baby & Child as the safer, stronger & more hygienic alternative to the Moses Basket. Made from an advanced Hypo-Allergenic polymer, this basket is stronger than wicker making it safer and comes without the creaks and groans of traditional baskets ensuring baby stays sound asleep.

An essential travel solution for parents of babies and small children is the Baby Aid Compact - the new take-anywhere first aid kit.

SNUGUNS are a revolutionary product to keep children's hands warm in winter -providing a big hugs for little hands, and keeping the cold away when they go out to play

Popngro Nappies have a unique ‘do what they say on the tin' popper fastening that literally grows with baby meaning one size fits all. This stylish reusable also has a built in waterproof outer - so not only are there no separate sizes to stock, but no need for covers either. The only choice to make is which colours to choose from making this product a retailers' dream. 

Following success across the globe, Chic-o-bello changing bags will be exhibited for the first time in the UK on the BPA's Launch Pad

Natural Baby understands how important a baby's welfare and comfort is, so have created a range of Bamboo nappies with this in mind.

Not only are Natural Baby's products kinder for baby, due to the naturally antibacterial qualities of bamboo but also kinder on the environment ensuring a reusable sustainable product and easy on your wallet!

With Emergency situations impossible to predict, access to the right information is vital. My Vista has the answer on its stand on the launchpad where INDICARE^TM will be introduced to the nursery sector. 

TWM Productions is delighted to introduce the new Tummy With Mummy®.  

With its sitting, reclining and tummy time positions, Tummy With Mummy® is a unique new relaxation concept for babies.  This innovative product will help develop babies' upper body muscles, while preventing flat heads, teaching infants to enjoy play and allowing parents to bond easily with them so that they feel safe, happy and secure.

For parents that have experienced being woken up at sunrise on holiday because the kids' bedrooms in the idyllic holiday cottage doesn't have curtains that are dark enough to block out the light then Lights Out has the solution.