Key preschool execs have outlined how they expect the retail landscape to change over the coming year to become stronger and more resilient.
Having altered their businesses to overcome the challenges set out by the pandemic, most retailers are now well-versed in modifying plans to continue trading. Nix Jain, head of marketing at Green Sheep Group, says this mindset will remain key going forward: “Adaptability is key to retail. With my brand hat on, retail is about providing an unforgettable in-store experience for the consumer; one that integrates product play with digital technology and mobile browing seems to be the way things are going.”
Luke Burns, general manager, Cybex UK & Ireland, applauded the industry’s adaptability thus far: “If the past two years has shown us anything, it’s that we can all adapt to changes more agilely than we ever imagined.”
He also sees e-commerce as remaining strong even out of lockdowns: “While new parents like to experience our products in showrooms before they buy, I think we will also see a continued upward trend of online purchases.”
Ceo and founder of Ickle Bubba, Fran Vaughan, however, is hopeful for a resurgence in the high street. He explained: “Some big names are entering back into the game, with Mothercare via Boots and Toys R Us also making a comeback. After a tough few years, 2022 could be a year where both old and new national retailers start to ramp up their efforts to become a destination for new parents.”
Whether online or physical stores, supporting retailers with strong customer service remains a priority for suppliers, as Nix explained: “One trend I do see is the emergence of lots of new dropship ecommerce businesses who want to be the next Amazon for baby – whilst this offers yet another shopping channel for the consumer, I think for the credibility, authority and survival of our industry, its key as brands that we support retailers that offer much more than just a transaction.”
