Seasons UV Solutions Positions for Expansion
Posted on Mar 22, 2010
Seasons UV Solutions of Toronto, best known for its SunSmart line of children's UV swim and playwear, is taking action to grow its U.S. presence. "We are bigger and better," said president Joanne Speight, noting the company has purchased a new 250,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in mainland China, established showrooms in Hong Kong, purchased a new head office and warehouse in Milton, Ontario, and entered into a joint venture with Concord, Mass.-based Real Kids Shades.
Licensing Exec Moves: Cookie Jar, The Hub
Posted on Mar 22, 2010
Need-to-know industry appointments and promotions.
~ Michael Berreth has been promoted to vice president of marketing at Cookie Jar Entertainment and will now lead global marketing campaigns and promotional programs. Berreth has handled brands and marketing campaigns for the company, including the 2009 worldwide relaunch of Strawberry Shortcake, and previously worked in management at Disney, Universal Studios, Nestl and Kelloggs. Visit www.thecookiejarcompany.com.
CPSC Issues Warning On Sling Carriers
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
Citing at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers in the last 20 years, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age.
The statement, which was released on Friday, said slings can pose suffocation hazards to babies by blocking their airways or placing them in a position that curls the chin to the chest, restricting oxygen supply.
Playtime to Host New York Show
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
The Playtime trade show plans to debut in New York for the Spring 11 buying season. Playtime is a comprehensive show that encompasses clothing, accessories, shoes, maternity items, dcor and toys. Already an established juvenile trade show in Paris, the concept launched in Tokyo in 2009. The show features an open floor plan thats easy to navigate as well as tools such as Playtimeshopping.com, which showcases images from each brand as well as new product news. Details for the Playtime New York show have yet to be announced. For more information, visit www.playtimeparis.com.
Madonna to Launch Junior Collection at Macy’s
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
Madonna has had an undeniable influence on fashion over the years, and now, via a new joint venture with Iconix Brand Group called MG Icon, the pop star has formed a direct-to-retail license agreement with Macys Inc. and will launch a Material Girl collection for juniors for back to school.
ENK Reports High Retailer Traffic at Children’s Club
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
ENK Internationals latest edition of the Childrens Club market, which ran March 6-9 at the Javits Center in New York, showcased 750 collections, including 123 new lines and approximately 100 eco-friendly lines. According to show management, the show drew more buyers than expected. The fall/winter show was a strong statement about the status of the childrens wear business, said show director Stanley Kaye. It was exciting to see the market come together and to see a surge in retailers attendance and buying patterns.
K.I.D.S. Surpasses $15 Million in Donations for Haiti
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
In the two months since the earthquake hit Haiti, Kids in Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.) has collected more than $15 million worth of new products to deliver to people impacted by the tragedy. The organization reported that 116 companies, both large and small, have responded by donating apparel, shoes, blankets, hats, nutrition products, water, diapers and more for those in need.
Bugaboo Debuts First U.S. Store
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
Dutch stroller company Bugaboo has opened its first retail store in its American headquarters in El Segundo, Calif. In addition to housing the brands complete product line, the space will be used as an event space as well as a location to host focus groups. The company noted the retail offshoot will help it garner firsthand feedback from consumers.
Executive Moves: Jakks Pacific, Big Tent
Posted on Mar 15, 2010
Need-to-know industry appointments and promotions.
~ Stephen Berman, co-founder, president and COO of Jakks Pacific, was recently appointed to CEO of the Malibu, Calif.-headquartered toy company. He replaces Jack Friedman, who plans to step down on April 1. Friedman will remain at Jakks Pacific as chairman and serve as chief strategist, concentrating on acquisitions and financing. Visit www.jakks.com.
Detwiler Fenton Acquires The Rugged Bear
Posted on Mar 8, 2010
Detwiler Fenton Group of Boston recently completed the acquisition of The Rugged Bear Inc.'s children's apparel business, forming the new entity The Rugged Bear Company. The Rugged Bear, a designer and retailer of high-quality, affordable children's clothing and outerwear, sells its products via 26 retail locations located in six states in the Northeast as well as its website.
