Buyers and brands keep positive at Premier KIDS

The mood was positive at Premier KIDS this July at the NEC Birmingham, with buyers and brands determined to make it business as usual in spite of events in London, further security scares in Birmingham and current tough trading.

First time exhibitor Jason Horsford at Infancy commented"I had a couple of Irish and London retailers who decided to stay at home, but as my first time at Premier KIDS I did some great business over 25 new accounts including an order from a major London department store. I am delighted with the results."

Numbers were slightly lower than at the July 2004 show, but serious retailers and those resolute to continue their usual buying for s/s 06 included Harrods, House of Fraser, Arnotts, Daisy & Tom, Bratz and Little Angels. "I was impressed by the quality of buyer we met at Premier KIDS. We took orders from both our existing, and new customers and business was considerably up from the last July show. We also have sales leads to follow up. We regard Premier Kids as a very important show to attend", said regular Howard Wilder from the Banner Group.

Buyers were well rewarded by their trip to the show, spoilt for choice with some beautiful product and unusual pieces from designer and contemporary brands such as Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Bengh, Uttam Kids and Me Too. The casual brands such Their Nibs, Religion, Poetic Justice proved popular, as did classic brands such as D’Arcy Brown, and accessories like House of AnLi. Helen Jackson from The Owl & The Pussycat in Hampshire enthused "Premier KIDS was absolutely excellent. There was a very high standard of collections and we found some fantastic things, the brands just seem to get better and better. We placed some orders but also made lots of contacts to place orders after the show. It was the best show to date, we really enjoyed it."

Premier KIDS was more than about buying though. There was practical business tips in Jackie Cook’s seminars, high-energy trend-led fashion shows and the all-essential trend predictions from trend agency PromoStyl. Jean-Philippe Glaskie, Managing Director from The Dalya Group, who is also on the NCWA council, underlined the importance for retailers coming to trade shows. "Trading is tough at the moment and is likely to continue, so many retailers may be wary about coming to a show and being under pressure about buying. But shows are an important opportunity to meet your suppliers and discuss any concerns, meet other retailers and see what’s going on in the market. In times like these you need to be as informed as possible, and use every trick to stay ahead of the competition."

Steve Newbold, MD of organisers Emap Retail concluded, "The success of Premier KIDS reflects the spirit and professionalism of our team, exhibitors and retailers. The quality of the brands, and a great atmosphere made Premier KIDS a positive, inspiring and productive show for all. We look forward to the January show"

Next season’s Premier KIDS takes place 29-31 January 2006, Hall 16, NEC, Birmingham

www.premierkids.co.uk or call
+44 (0) 870 429 4514.