‘Our portfolio offers a wide choice to buyers’ says group licensing director Patrick Bailey.
The licensed preschool apparel sector remains one of the healthiest, with plenty of choice for both retailers and consumers.
But it’s not without its challenges – the Brexit vote and the subsequent currency devaluation, retailers being ever more cautious on stocking decisions and lack of shelf space to trial new lines are all concerns.
This week, we ask some of the sector’s key players for their views.
Today: Patrick Bailey, group licensing director, Blues Clothing
“The economic climate is still challenging and looks set to remain this way throughout 2017. We cannot affect this directly and, therefore, we have to ensure we are offering product that will be successful in-store. Retail will always give shelf space if they can buy products that they believe will be attractive to their customers.
“I do feel that we have a portfolio that offers a wide choice to our buyers. My Little Pony is highly popular – although older girls is the core audience, the brand has a large following with younger girls. PAW Patrol is also in high demand, while Peppa Pig and Thomas remain very strong brands.
“Blaze and the Monster Machines, Shimmer & Shine and Hey Duggee are now getting established and look to have great potential. We would see these brands gaining momentum in 2017. We are also extremely excited about the potential of PJ Masks.
“Generally the preschool area is alive and well; it is a key area and one where apparel works extremely well.”
This feature originally appeared in the March/April edition of Progressive Preschool. Click here to read the full publication.
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