“In launching this event our aims were simple; to re-establish a strong autumn event, at a time and in a central London location to suit nursery buyers’ needs,” commented Catherine Iredale, Launch Director. “We sought to provide breadth and depth of event content, from the diversity of exhibitors to inspiring features – all tied together with the important theme of innovation.”

With 175 exhibitors launching new products, The Baby Show for Trade was the hub to do business in during its three days.

The Baby Show for Trade provided an environment that was innovative, inspiring and conducive to doing business – a showcase for the nursery industry.

“The message from retailers was clear,” Catherine continued. "They found the opportunity to see all the new products in one time and in one place invaluable. It gave them the opportunity to see in situ the way the products would look in their stores, to source stock competitively and to compare suppliers. This is crucial for all retailers wanting to increase margins and footfall in this economic climate. It acts as a check and balance to see whether their stores are operating as efficiently as possible.”

Exhibitors engaged with a wide range of leading independent stores, multiples, department stores, supermarkets, pharmacists and nursery online stores, who were delighted at the rich mix of pregnancy, nursery and baby products.  Visitors included buyers from Boots, The Baby Lady, Harrods, Tesco, Winstanleys Pramworld, Sainsbury’s and John Lewis to name just a few.

“We are delighted there is now a strong London show,” commented Jeremy Minchin, Hippychick.  “It was great to spend time with key retailers.  We have already re-booked a bigger space for next year.”

Innovation was key to this year’s event and the Innovation Zone, BPA Launchpad and Concept & Innovation areas proved a real hit with all our visitors.  With over 25 new exhibitors there was no shortage of ideas!

“I really hope that the Baby Show for Trade could become the platform for new designers, inventors and entrepreneurs to launch their ideas. I certainly saw some early concepts that with the right direction could become commercial,” said Aurelie Hare, Senior Buyer, Mothercare.   “I truly enjoyed the experience and look forward to returning next year!”

A series of seminars with expert sales advice and valuable ideas on how to improve your business played to packed houses during the show

Rattles to Riches, the show’s Dragons’ Den style feature was a resounding success attracting crowds of visitors.  The selection of entrepreneurs presented some brilliant new ideas to a fantastic panel of judges including Caroline Bettis, John Lewis, James Leeson, Amazon, Lisa Honeyball, Frills all Around and Karl Doyle, M&S providing a truly entertaining atmosphere.

The 2011 event is strongly supported already, with 93% of this year’s space contracted already for next year.

The Baby Show for Trade will take place next year at London Olympia, 16 -18 October 2011.

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