The industry is set to be treated to another bumper three days at the Harrogate International Nursery Fair from 13-15 October, with new launches across key categories, sneak peaks and plentiful networking opportunities. PreschoolNews.net finds out more.
The Harrogate International Nursery Fair rolls back into town this month – bringing with it benefits and excitement across the board. For retailers, it’s a chance to see new products coming into the UK parenting market, as well as an opportunity to see new innovations, snap up special show offers – and experience some of the hospitality on offer, which last year included gelato and champagne.
Christine Scippo, communications manager for the Harrogate show, tells PPS what’s in store for visitors: “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the show. It’s a favourite once-a-year UK event for the trade, where you can get hands on with products and we hope you will take the time to visit and discover items that will adorn your shelves into 2025. We have a bumper show again this year, with 42 new exhibitors, plus exhibitors with new products, such as Roma, which is introducing its new Bentley collection; in fact, we have a bit of car show feel going on this year, with Cozy n Safe showcasing its new Mercedes range.
“There are five halls all on the same level, plus various catering options; the Conservatory Café in Hall Q is sponsored by Momcozy and the café in Hall B is once again sponsored by Cheeky Rascals. There are kiosk outlets for snacks and drinks in Halls C and Q.”
Many of the exhibitors have extended their ranges and stands this year, as Christine explains. “The CuddleCo stand will be particularly impressive with its ‘Go Large’ display, plus we have some new brands joining for the first time including Little Dutch, Wildride, DKB Toys, Momcozy from China, Espiro from Poland and Lorelli from Bulgaria. We have several new brands from the US exhibiting, too. We also welcome the return of well-known brands such as Chicco, Matchstick Monkey and Sophie la Giraffe.”
Another new innovation is the Baby Boutique Village, which offers layette companies key promotion in one space. “New baby clothing and gifts make great impulse and add-on purchases for independent retailers, so this is a welcome addition to the show,” says Christine.
There will also be plenty of celebrations on the show floor this year, too.
“Babystyle celebrates its 25 year anniversary and will be hosting a champagne and gin bar party on stand M6. Pop by and raise a toast with Andy, Sam and the team on Sunday at 4.30pm before heading to the networking reception just next door in the spectacular Royal Hall from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. There will be a chance to mingle with industry colleagues and the show organisers in the exquisite surroundings of a Victorian music hall, listen to a live jazz trio and enjoy free drinks and food,” concludes Christine.
The Progressive Preschool team will be on stand A17, so please do pop by and say hello. Click here to read our round up of what visitors can expect from just some of the companies on the show floor.
