In total, displaying over 300 brands and a multitude of education and inspirational features, The Baby Show for Trade is fast securing its place to become a definite fixture in the diary for multiple, independent retailers alongside the suppliers and manufactures.

“We saw many independent retailers who find it easy to access the show for a day only so they are not out of their business for too long. For the larger retail buying teams based mainly in the South East it's a no brainer to visit, and they were all there again this year” said Ginny Jogee, Owner 1 Two Kids, “There might be Cologne, ABC etc, but nothing beats a home grown UK show with a more intimate feel. We'll be back."

The focus for 2011 was to deliver an audience of key buyers. We introduced a VIP programme and we welcomed House of Fraser, John Lewis, Baby Concierge, Argos, Libertys, WH Watts & Son, Harrods, Amazon, Tesco, Peppermint, Winstanleys, Baby Planet, Oxford Pram Centre plus many more.

Rattles to Riches, returned for a second year, as entrepreneurs with an idea for the ‘next-big-thing’, pitched to a panel of the UK’s top nursery trade buyers including Harriet Blanchet, Jo JoMamanBebe, Rachel Zemmel, Marks and Spencer, Marcus Hughes, Sainsbury’s and Christine Gilligan, Boots. Winners for 2011 were Safety DomeCovaMe; Philippa le Boutillier with the Spilly Spoon; and Adam Murphy with the Shnuggle Moses Basket, each one has been awarded a prize of a free stand at the Baby Show for Trade 2012.

Returning for a second year to The Baby Show for Trade were The BPA concept and Innovation Awards. The Innovation Award, for products which have reached prototype stage, went to Susan Greeney and Jodi Bartle of Yoogobaby for their inflatable travel cot design. Sonia Day was chosen as winner of the Concept Award for Tooth Ticklers, a uniquely designed toothbrush specifically for babies and toddlers.

The Baby Boutique Pavilion, for the first time, allowed visitors to source the most on-trend baby clothing and furniture from the likes of Olli Ella, Momymoo, Hevea Baby, Yippydada, Jack & Lilly, Ruby & Ginger and Baby Emporio.

“This is the first year we’ve exhibited at the Baby Show for Trade and we will certainly be adding the Baby Show for Trade into our plans for 2012. It’s a great way to meet the buyers from well-known stores and independent boutiques under one roof and provides the ideal opportunity to meet other people working in the sector” said Joelle, Momymoo.

Amongst the visitors there were also a few celebrity appearances including Kian Egan (Westlife) and wife Jodi Albert (Hollyoaks) on Sunday and also Katie Hill (Blue Peter) on Monday. All were delighted by the vast array of the products coming to market.

Russell Hughes, Sales Manager comments, "We are looking forward to 2012, The Baby Show for Trade is now entering its third year and becoming an established, must attend event for retailers. We are also excited to build on our successful partnership with the BPA. We are once again offering the most competitive rates to BPA members. Over 53% of the floorplan has already been secured by brands wishing to meet up with buyers for 2012.”

The Baby Show for Trade will return to Olympia 14-16 October 2012.

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