Summer is the time when we should be thinking of lazy days on the beach, and selling loads of parasols and beachwear. However, it's more likely that mums have been in wanting raincovers! But before you all run away to escape the deluge, you'll need to get your entry forms in for the Retailer of the Year Awards. This year, in addition to retailers nominating themselves, members of the BPA have been asked to get involved by sending in their own nominations!

This year's BPA Baby and Child is gearing up to build on the successes of previous events. The annual UK showcase of the nursery industry is taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 7th-9th of October.

The German supplier teutonia has been acquired by Newell Rubbermaid. teutonia was founded in 1947 and is a leading European supplier of high-end pushchairs, prams, buggies, joggers and accessories. teutonia designs, assembles, sources and markets products targeted at the parenting market and currently has a strong presence in the Germanic and Nordic countries.

A large number of toys were put under the spotlight and the winners of the 2007 Good Toy Awards were announced. Some of the categories are not relevant to nursery, but some are namely –

In mid June, Jeremy Minchin (Sales Director - Hippychick) and 7 others facing a mid life crisis, attempted the notorious Three Peaks Challenge (climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hrs).

Kooltrade have announced a competition amongst their retailers for the best shop window display of Kooltrade brands. The winner will receive £500 of free items from each of the Inglesina, Combi, Firstwheels and My Child bands. Judging will be carried out by a guest judge and all entries need to be coordinated with the retailers Kooltrade representative.

A massive roll-out of a brand new-look to Babies R Us in all 71 Toys R Us stores throughout the UK has been announced. The massive investment is set to improve the overall shopping experience for new parents and mumsto- be.

It is with great regret that we will be saying goodbye to Paul Evans who is leaving the industry to go and work for Brainwave - a charity which supports children who have both physical and cognitive disabilities, whether caused by brain injury, genetic and chromosome abnormality, trauma or accident.

Küster a young exciting brand whose range of products includes the stylish K2 Highchair has recently appointed PJP (Price Jones Partnership) to work on their PR and communications campaign.

MD & Head of Design, Steve Kuester says, 'We are really excited to be working with PJP...

The Wilkinet Baby Carrier Company has been selected by the prestigious Passport to Export programme to help take its successful carrier around the World. The company, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, has spent the last year investing in a far reaching brand awareness programme through consumer advertising and public relations, and has updated its website to make it more accessible to international customers.

Summer Infant have moved their UK and European headquarters to Office Suite 6, Second Floor, Bournehall House, Bournehall Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire WD23 3HP. Tel: 020 8420 4429 (unchanged) Fax: 020 8420 5911. Summer Infant has also significantly overhauled the way it handles its warehouse and goods dispatch facilities. As of 1st June 2007, these will be handled in-house ensuring tighter stock controls and an even better customer service.

Bébé-Jou are pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Pearson as their UK Sales Director responsible for further developing the unique Bébé-Jou brand within the UK. Simon has worked in the nursery trade for 18 years starting as a key account executive for Lawtex PLC in 1989 and most recently as Joint Managing Director of EVO Partnership specialising in nursery textiles.

RC2 has announced the acquisition of Compass, a privately-held, start-up developer and marketer of infant and toddler travel gear. RC2 funded this acquisition with existing cash. Compass is best known for its folding toddler booster car seat which is currently sold in speciality and selected chain retailers.

When a first time mum discovers they are pregnant they become a customer with several thousand pounds to spend, spread over two to three years. Winning and retaining a customer right at the beginning of the buying cycle can be very lucrative. One in 4 women in the early stages of pregnancy (under 20 weeks) say they have already bought their pushchair and car seat (and one in 6 have bought a baby carrier).

Generations Ahead, the UK distributor of Mother-ease fitted cloth nappies and covers, is proud to announce that the Mother-ease range are now being manufactured using clean, green electricity from Bullfrog Power™. Bullfrog Power™ is a leading Canadian provider of 100 per cent green electricity providing homes and businesses with an easy way to go green and help create a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.

The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID) has announced its latest advice to parents with regard to dummies or soothers: Settling a baby to sleep with a dummy - even for naps - can reduce the risk of cot death. FSID has joined forces with MAM, the UK's soother specialists, in a two-year partnership to promote this important health message.

MEMBERSHIP
We now have twelve new members in BPA Retail. Momentum is growing as more retailers want the recognition that their commitment to customer service and product expertise deserves. In addition to the range of benefits and services already available to members we expect to announce some very interesting new benefits shortly so please keep visiting the website for an update.

Q - When and where were you born?
A - On the south coast, at Brighton.

Q - Education?
A - Basic comprehensive.

On 1 July, smoking was banned in all enclosed public places and commercial premises in England. Your business has almost certainly be affected to some extent by the new law.

The image of the lawyer milking the cow being fought over is an abiding one. Many companies sleep walk into this scenario and in the area of agents' rights there are lots of 'cows' waiting for the unwary!

Since 1995 Tesco has been committed to increasing customer loyalty and driving brand share in the baby market. Today, more customers shop with Tesco than anywhere else for baby consumable products and the launch of its Baby & Toddler Club, which is celebrating its 10th birthday this year, is a perfect example of its 'Every Little Helps' corporate values.

The internet is viewed by many Nursery Retailers, particularly independents, as a huge threat, but just how easy is it for consumers to make informed purchases on the web. As Ni's resident 'Secret Shopper' I thought it would be good to put this revolutionary retail solution to the test and see just what retailers have got to worry about!

Every baby needs a set of wheels and many of the consumer magazines - helped by a number of retailers - do their best to fit the needs of the parents and - as Eric Snook of the Golden Cot in Bath regularly tells us - the needs of the baby, to a particular model. Match a set of needs to a set of features and take the credit card. If only life was that simple.

Convertible, comfortable, lightweight umbrella stroller, the Red Castle CityLink® has all the additional benefits and superb quality you would usually associate with much more expensive travel systems, yet it's so refreshingly easy to use. It comes with hood, rain cover, apron, sun screen, basket, and adaptors for carrycot and car seat.

Dakar, by NURSE is based on a traditional multi award winning Spanish design. The three wheel pushchair is proven within the market for all adventurous families! This genuine all terrain pushchair incorporates comfort and durability, supplied by a light weight aluminium chassis, lockable 360° front wheel and a multiple position backrest that is suitable from new born.

If your customer is wanting pushchair versatility and durability - something that can tackle tough urban streets as well as rugged country terrain and beaches; whether they be a fashionista wanting the latest fabric colours and designs, or want a no frills work horse for serious off- roading then there is a Mountain Buggy® for them.

Suitable from birth to three years of age, the CT0.1 stroller comes with matching fleece foot muff and changing bag. The foot muff can be zipped apart to make a legcover for the summer. The lightweight aluminium chassis is compact and freestanding when closed. The seat unit is removable when using the Auto-Fix car seat (available separately) to create a practical travel system.

Weighing in at an astonishing 6.3kg we believe that Zia is the lightest from-birth stroller on the market!

A beautiful lightweight design which folds down in seconds to a super slim-line, compact size; Zia's no-nonsense folding system is simplicity itself. Once folded, it fits perfectly into the smallest of car boots - or stores away neatly in the tiniest space. [Folded dimensions only 34x34x73cm]

Nova, by NURSE is a vibrant, umbrella folding stroller, constructed from light weight aluminum. The stroller is designed with both comfort and durability in mind. Nova incorporates a 4 position adjustable backrest, lockable swivel wheels, adjustable leg rest, front and rear suspension, removable and washable seat cover, 5 point harness as standard and is available in 2 colour ways.

Crossover is the latest product from cutting edge Dutch manufacturers X Adventure… The aluminium frame, state of the art coil suspension and high profile air filled tyres make the Crossover the most comfortable pushchair in town.

The Mia Moda Libero (MA11360) is a stylish 3in1 travel system. The lightweight aluminium frame and compact 3D umbrella fold so that it can be stored in the car boot or taken on holiday. It also has adjustable ergonomic handle grips for added comfort when pushing along.

Hello, by NURSE is a fresh look to the market, and a very stylish way to transport baby! The compact light weight aluminium chassis has front and rear quick release wheels with suspension, reversible and removable seat unit, multiple back/foot rest positions and available in two eye catching colour ways, Sunlight/Skyland.

One of the 'New Generation' from Bebecar, the Vector adds a new dimension to the term 'pushchair'. Designed and manufactured in Portugal, the Vector combines all the features that parents are looking for: a smooth cushioned ride for their baby or toddler, a padded reversible seat unit, and great looks.

The CONCORD Fusion pushchair brings design, functionality and comfort together. Combined with Concord's Ion shell for use from birth it has a unique onehanded adjustment release, fully adjustable suspension, a parking brake, a height adjustable comfort handle, sumptuous covers in gorgeous colours, a clever wind protector integrated in the cross bar along with a removable rain cover.

The Little Shield pushchair collection offers something for everyone, whether it should be a complete travel system, three wheeler, twin, tandem or a lightweight stroller.

Pareo, by NURSE, is a new twin stroller, designed with comfort, and durability being paramount. The stroller has four position independently adjustable backrests, adjustable leg rests, lockable swivel front wheels, front and rear suspension, five point harness and at only 78cm wide, Pareo can go through standard doorways and lift doors.

The Jané CARRERA CUP Anniversary model including the new STRATA infant car seat will be available from late August '07 available in five colours. CARRERA CUP is the latest creation of the philosophy that JANÉ has established over its 75 years of experience.

For over thirty years Britax have set the standards in the car seat market. With a safety record that's second to none, consumers know that upon purchasing a Britax car seat they're making the best possible choice for their child's safety and comfort.

In today's increasingly competitive nursery market two vital factors really stand out - increasing profit and keeping customers happy and wanting to return. One certain way of achieving both is to consider and out into place the great link selling opportunities that the Sunshine Kids range of pushchair accessories offer to retailers.

Prince Lionheart’s high quality pushchair accessories increase the value of your customers' next pushchair purchase. Accessories are available separately or in one complete value-winning package. The six different interchangeable accessories will click in or out as needed and the Click 'N Go system is compatible with most pushchairs.

A trip out in the buggy can sometimes be a chore, but the Sassy My Little Sunshine Mirror from Flair will have tots just longing to get out and about.

The latest addition to the award winning range of developmental toys from Tiny Love, available exclusively in the UK through East Coast Nursery Ltd, is the 'Sunny Stroll' flexible arch that fits most pushchairs. Suitable from birth, the Sunny Stroll encourages babies to reach out and play with the many activities on the arch.

Courtesy of Lascal's policy of continuous development, the ingenious BuggyBoard® (the best-selling pushchair accessory on the market) just gets better and better. Now fitting an incredible 99% of pushchairs and three-wheelers, the latest easy-fit BuggyBoard Maxi is one must-stock item that no good nursery retailer should be without.

The Mr Croak Travel Companion will keep even the liveliest toddler's gaze engaged with bright colours, a crinkly body and rattling, tinkling feet. What's more, he can be turned and twisted into all sorts of crazy positions and when his tongue is pulled his crinkly body starts to shiver and shake, provoking hoots of laughter from the tot on board.

Parenting product innovators Revelo are launching the Board-Seat in the UK as exclusive distributors.

The Board-Seat is an ingenious invention for anyone who has a Bugaboo and a wheeled board. The lightweight seat locks securely onto the board and is the perfect way to take the weight off small legs when out and about with two children.

Buying a bouncing or rocking chair may seem an extravagance but many Mums recommend having one for the great convenience it offers. These chairs also provide a useful place for baby to lie while awake. The ceiling can be a pretty boring thing to look at, but a chair is at an angle. The necessary support is there but it also gives baby a view of what is happening in the world.

The new DJ Babywalker comes equipped with a fun sounds and lights toy. The electronic activity toy features a light up keyboard that has notes, melodies or animal sounds.

One of the hottest products from The First Years is the top-selling Tigger Door Bouncer. Over the years, it has proven to be a firm favourite with parents and babies alike! Featuring well-loved Winnie the Pooh character, Tigger, this bright, colourful bouncer keeps little ones amused for hours, providing indoor entertainment as well as useful exercise.

The Jané Aurora Compact rocker is a truly versatile cradle, for sleeping, resting or playing. Suitable from birth to six months (9kg) With a detachable toy arch and removable soft toys that can be attached to many pushchairs.

With Bouncing Cradles on most new mother's 'Essential Buys' list, East Coast Nursery Ltd offer a choice of two: the Sensations Bouncing Cradle is luxuriously padded, has a vibration system to calm anxious babies, and a head hugger. The soft fabric cover is removable and machine washable to 40 degrees.

The new JANÉ Team baby walker is a patented, innovative, sporty design that has many valuable features; It includes a multi activity tray complete with lights and real racing car sounds.

The long awaited Svan Bouncer is finally here! Sales are flying in Scandinavia and the USA and judging by the amount of pre-orders, the beautifully designed Svan Bouncer is going to be just as successful here!

Why not treat your baby with this ultimate luxurious rocker with 100% aluminium frame from Jané. The new FOLD has a softly padded seat with secure safety harness, a head hugger for added support, removable toy arch and practical carry handles.

Cloth nappies is an interesting sector of our industry. It's only a few years ago that they were the preserve of the more 'hippy' element. There was little information about them. Few of us knew that a crisis in the use of land fill was looming; even fewer knew about other environmental concerns.

Generations Ahead, the UK distributor of Mother-ease fitted cloth nappies now has even more award-winning Motherease nappies to choose from - the Bamboo One-Size and the Bamboo Sandy's.

TotsBots have revolutionised the washable nappy market with their two-piece shaped nappy system. Their ease of use and exceptional performance has resulted in the company achieving 100% sales growth per annum over the last six years.

Kushies Ultra nappies, winners of the Mother & Baby Gold Award for Best Reusable Nappy, were recently reported in the Which report as the best All-in-One reusable nappy for their value. A true All-in-One nappy as it requires no extra inner pads and has a built-on waterproof outer which can be machine washed and tumble dried.

Working with the STA (Swimming Teachers Association), Baby Swim Schools, parents and, of course, children, Konfidence continue to expand their pool and beachwear range. A good example of this is the NEW Swim Nappicova© which is NOW AVAILABLE.

Another season, another head-turning OiOi® collection. The new Red Vintage bags say it all - stylish, sumptuous and individual, to see them is to want them!

One of several dressers/changing units available exclusively from East Coast Nursery Ltd, the Clara comes in a choice of two finishes, pure white or natural pine. With clean lines and a gently arched back, the Clara will look great in any nursery, and is perfect for changing nappies, with everything needed stored close at hand.

Award-winning reusable nappies from Modern Baby are shaped to fit baby's bottom snugly and are designed to be quick and easy to use.

With a core of super-absorbent terry towelling, the nappy is covered in a soft brushed-cotton that comes in seven gorgeous gingham designs.

Clearly herbal Wipes are clearly better for business! In less than a year our natural wipes, which are not only kind to baby but also for the environment, are being sold in independent nursery stores across the country.

gro-group® has launched the Time Out Pad™ - a portable mat with a built-in timer to help parents ensure consistent and effective time-outs. Time Out Pad™ has a simple traffic light system combined with a variable timer which can be set between one and five minutes.

A baby sling and baby wrap in one, the Shelter is another unique product from the fabulously innovative Lodger range. When used as a sling, the baby is held next to the body so experiences a feeling of comfort and security reminiscent of being in the womb. Safe, cosy and secure, the sling is suitable for babies aged 0-five months.

Adorable toys for toddlers come in all shapes and sizes at John Crane Ltd and the new pull along lamb from PINTOY® has the added “Ahh” factor! With clicking wheels this charming pal will follow toddlers everywhere.