NiRetail Spotlight
Business blooming despite difficult economic climate
In our first Retail Spotlight of 2012, we talk to Steve and Tina Goult of Babe-in-Arms, Dunstable
How long have you been established? Babe-in-Arms opened in August 2009 in a side street just off the high street. We have since progressed and taken over the adjoining shop which is on the main high street. What a difference this makes, because no matter how many signs you put up telling people where you are, they never see them. We now have a brilliant shop front on a very busy road.
Considering the economic climate, has it been difficult for
you as a start-up business? We started our business in the recession and had a very good opening day, which continued on. There have been some difficult times; mainly when a drunk driver kindly drove into the front of our shop, leaving us boarded up for about three weeks. In this town, when we people see that, they think another shop has gone bust and it takes some time to get back to normal, but thankfully, things are going well.
What products do you stock? We stock a wide range of products from the basics to cots, prams, bedding, cribs, moses baskets, chairs, car seats, toys, a selection of clothes (premature baby clothes, christening gowns, special occasion wear, hand knits) and furniture. We also design and manufacture our own furniture, hand made to order, like the Princess castle pictured. We have gift baskets by Christina made to order, nappy cakes, shoes and gifts. We hope to have some maternity wear available soon too.
Describe your customer base? Our customer base is varied, from very young people starting out, to grandparents, older mums and people shopping for gifts etc.
How do you compete with the multiples? Competing with the multiples can be difficult in terms of price, but we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and after care.
Do you attend any of the trade shows, if so, how important
are they to your business? The trade shows are very important to us as we can see the latest products, try them out and keep our customers informed. We also get to meet the suppliers and chat about any problems with products or suggest new ideas. It’s great to see all the new colours and designs coming onto the market.
What other methods do you use to source new and
innovative products? We also use the Internet and ask our customers for comments and ideas.
What do you look for in brand and product? When considering a new product, the first thing to ensure is that it meets all the correct safety standards. We also look for quality, durability and ease of use to be confident in what we sell.
How important is good display and merchandising? Good display is crucial; if your products are displayed well, they will sell well. A clear and bright shop is very important.
10 • NURSERY INDUSTRY • JANUARY 2012 •
www.nursery-industry.co.uk
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