There were more exhibitors at Harrogate Nursery Fair in 2013 than ever before, with eight halls packed to bursting with the latest new baby product launches and numerous new brands entering the UK nursery market for the first time. A number of exciting developments for the show included the occupation of the newly built Hall G of the Harrogate International Centre which proved hugely successful for the companies exhibiting there and provided a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to the VIP lounge and Press Office.

The truly international aura surrounding Harrogate was remarked on by those familiar with the show, probably owing to a notable increase in exhibitors and visitors from around the world. The show welcomed a North American Pavilion for the first time which looks set to return next year; and active meetings took place with a view to hosting a similar Chinese Pavilion in 2014.

Of course, a significant topic of conversation for the duration of the Nursery Fair 2013 was the unprecedented cold weather and heavy snowfall which contributed to one of the coldest Marchs’ on record. However, despite this, those with serious business in mind braved the elements and although visitor numbers were slightly down, the general consensus was ‘quality over quantity’ and order books filled fast for the majority of exhibitors both new and old.

Mitch Levine, managing director of Chicco, commented: "We were absolutely delighted to have doubled our March order bank from this year's show against 2012. The enormity of demand caught us 'a little cold', similar to the weather! But our order processing, warehouse and logistics teams are working hard to ensure that retailers have their stock as soon as possible."

Judith Dayus, director of Great Gizmos Ltd, added: "We had a good show at Harrogate this year despite the weather. We were surprised at how many people made the effort to get there. Nursery buyers must be a hardy bunch! We had a record number of orders and plenty of good quality leads to follow up. It was encouraging to see some of our long standing customers and very refreshing to see new retailers who are just in the process of opening shops even in the current economic climate."

There was also a good turnout from the press with editors seeking new story ideas from the majority of consumer baby titles including Mother & Baby, Bounty, Gurgle, Practical Parenting and Pregnancy. Alison Canavan, reporter for the Daily Mail visited the show for the first time and said: "I had a great day and found that one day was far too short. I got lots of ideas for articles and my editor is thrilled. I thought it was a very well organised show and I will definitely be back."

The entire show organising team is delighted with the positive feedback received which is backed up by many exhibitors reserving their stand space in advance for next year, even though bookings don’t officially open until May.

Adrian Sneyd who heads the Nursery Fair team said: "I'd like to convey a special thank you to all of our 2013 exhibitors and visitors. Despite the unprecedented weather conditions we had a 100% turnout from all of our exhibitors and on the whole most visitors also made the extra effort to attend the show which provides the only chance to view all the latest products in the UK this year.

"The quality of buyers attending meant that the show was a major success with the American Pavilion and new hall G exhibitors presenting an extra dimension not seen before at the show. We hope we can continue to build on all this success and look forward to developing ideas with our overseas partners to further enhance and grow the show for 2014 - when we very much hope that spring sunshine and daffodils will be back on the agenda once again!"

Many congratulations to the eight companies which join in celebration today having each won a prestigious Baby and Nursery Trade Award (BANTA) in recognition of outstanding products – and the great news is, you still have a day to come along and see them all first-hand!

Presented during a dazzling party night at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate last night, there were eight categories with one company highly commended and one overall winner for each. These are:

Child Restraints

Winner - CYBEX – Sirona (Stand A5/A10)
Highly Commended - Joie UK – Stages (Stand G40)

Wheeled Goods

Winner - Petite Star – The Petite Star Bubble – (Stand QP1)
Highly Commended - Easywalker B.V. - MINI Stroller (Stand C12)

Travel Accessories

Winner - Hippychick Ltd – My Buggy Buddy Sun Shade (Stand C29 / 35)
Highly Commended - Milton BabyCare – Milton Mini Soother Steriliser (Stand H9)

Sleep Accessories

Winner - B Kids UK Ltd – Bobbee Snuggle Bear (Stand D7)
Highly Commended - Sweet Dreamers Ltd – ewan sleep bundle (Stand H24)

In Home

Winner - Shnuggle – The Modern Moses Basket (Stand H21)
Highly Commended - Start-rite Furniture – Arc Highchair (C8)

Playtime

Winner - Chicco UK – Music Band Table (Stand M18)
Highly Commended - Splash About International - FINGS Swim Aid (Stand QP59)

Safety

Winner - ZoLi Inc – buzz b electric nail trimmer (Stand H NAP4)
Highly Commended - Ardega Ltd – Samsung SmartCam Baby Monitor (H56/H57)

Feeding, Cleaning & Changing

Winner - Yoomi – Yoomi 8oz Feeding System (Stand QP8a)
Highly Commended - Cheeky Chompers – Neckerchew (Stand QP10)

The show is open tomorrow (Tuesday 26th March) from 9.30am until 4pm.

Look forward to seeing you there.

The doors opened to Harrogate Nursery Fair 2013 this morning with positive vibes resounding through the eight halls of the Harrogate International Centre.

Earlier worries regarding the unprecedented snow have proved unfounded with most visitors reporting very clear roads and incident-free journeys.

Anticipation has been high for many exhibitors today as the BANTA judges have been gathering to peruse shortlisted products – and the winners of these will be announced at the Party & Awards night which takes place at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate this evening. Visitors at the show tomorrow should be on the lookout for products displaying the BANTA Shortlisted, Highly Commended and Winning certificates.

Don’t forget this is the only UK opportunity for nursery trade this year and you still have two days to come and see all of the latest new baby products – the show is open from 9.30am until 6.00pm on Monday and 9.30am until 4.00pm on Tuesday.

We look forward to seeing you!

Weather won’t affect plans

Despite national weather warnings with snow forecast for many areas of the country, Harrogate has been fortunate to avoid the worst and the Nursery Fair team are confident that visitors should have no problems arriving safely at the show.

Adrian Sneyd comments: “There has been just a light flurry in Harrogate today which hasn’t settled and certainly hasn’t affected travel plans for exhibitors arriving for set up. According to the Met Office there may be further light snow showers tomorrow. However, again this looks unlikely to settle and the forecast is dry and fine for the duration of the show from Sunday to Tuesday.”

Kalencom returns to the UK

After a short absence from the UK, Kalencom changing bags are now back and will be showcased at this year’s Harrogate Nursery Fair by 2012 Ltd. Kalencom is a popular and trusted brand from the USA that encompasses fresh and fashion forward designs and styles without compromising on practicality.

Be sure to come to  to view this fabulous collection and to see some great introductory show offers.

There’s a new Tote in Town

Lucie Trinco is flying halfway around the globe to be at this year’s Harrogate Nursery Fair. The creator, designer and director of Il Tutto, commented: “The UK is our fastest growing European market and I’m looking forward to showing off our spring collection at my favourite European fair.”

New Spring styles include the bang up to date and newest Tote in town – Frankie and the simply gorgeous After Baby bag fashioned out of buttery soft washed leather. Both are perfect for style savvy mums who don’t want to stop wearing a gorgeous bag just because they now have a family.

Visit Il Tutto Stand No C3

The Personal Touch

Raggy-Tag comfort blankets have become even more exclusive, presenting an embroidery service to individual customers and Raggy-Tag stockists.

As a manufacturer and retailer, Raggy-Tag has the unique ability to offer this value-added service, making purchases extra special with a personal touch.

By embroidering the child’s name and / or date of birth before the comfort blanket is sewn together, the product retains the handmade quality finish that has made Raggy-Tag the first choice for newborn baby gifts and keepsakes.

View the full range of Raggy-Tag baby gifts and accessories on Stand QP24.

As always, a warm welcome awaits both exhibitors and visitors to Harrogate Nursery Fair and we look forward to a bustling three days of business activity, networking and fun.

Don’t leaving planning until the last minute and make sure that you and your colleagues have pre-registered for a speedy, trouble-free entry. Full visiting information including parking, accommodation and show opening times can be found on this website.

BANTA Shortlist Announced

After much deliberation, the BPA’s Baby and Nursery Trade Awards (BANTAs) judges have announced the shortlist of entries which will be invited to the final stage of the judging process at Harrogate Nursery Fair on Sunday.

Julie James of the BPA comments: “We had numerous BANTA entries this year and the quality and diversity of products presented was quite outstanding. The judges were tasked to look a number of criteria including innovation, marketability, safety, consumer appeal and value for money and the 49 shortlisted entries chosen were the overall consensus of the entire panel.”

To view the BANTA shortlist click HERE.

European Award winner hits the UK

Casualplay has been designing award-winning strollers and car seats in Europe for over 40 years and are looking forward to their UK launch at Harrogate.

Come and see Kudu with its revolutionary aluminium frame, which flows in liquid curves that used to be the sole preserve of carbon fibre and find out why Kudu won the Kind und Jugend innovation award 2012.

Plus Q Retraktor, the only car seat in the world that uses adult seat belt technology to reduce displacement by 30% and Sono the only 0+ car seat that reclines and still only takes up one space in the car.

Casualplay’s complete range of strollers, car seats and carrycots will be on Stand H2

MaByLand launches two new collections

MaByLand will be launching two new product collections at the Harrogate Nursery Fair; The Floral Collection and The Luxury Collection. It has added two new floral changing bags to its ever popular floral range which now totals to six changing bag sets in two different styles, with new single and double size bottle insulators. MaByLand will also be launching The Luxury Collection, which includes the new ergonomic Comfort Carrier, Maxi & Mini Elite Changing Bags, and matching Bottle Insulators.

Visit MabyLand on stand C33 to take advantage of an extra 15% off Normal Trade Prices.

Look out for ewan the dream sheep’s new doggie pal

The SweetDreamers team has been busy creating a new pal for the multi-award-winning ewan the dream sheep and he’s due to be unveiled at Harrogate!

Introducing Russell the dream sheepdog – with softly changing warm glow, gently lights up the room with all the colours of the rainbow. Russell is a great way to help toddlers feel comforted and secure at bedtime as his enchanting ‘light show’ lulls them off to sleep. Better still, Russell has a voice recorder so parents can record themselves, songs or favourite stories for their toddler to enjoy. Cute, cuddly and comforting...Russell is set to become a favourite at toddler’s bedtimes as he helps combat fear of the dark and eliminates bedtime battles.

Visit SweetDreamers on Stand H24

With just a week to go until the UK’s international trade show, we hope you’re looking forward to viewing some amazing new product launches as well as lots of new brands exhibiting at Harrogate Nursery Fair this year.

If you have colleagues or friends attending the show with you, remind them to pre-register before arriving as it will save valuable time and will avoid queues. Also, don’t forget to visit this website for information about travel and accommodation and a full list of over 200 exhibitors.

New colours and recyclable fabrics for Bumbleride

Returning to Harrogate following its successful launch there last year, the Bumbleride range of pushchairs from the USA will be showcasing the extended range of colours offered and buyers will be able to see the new completely recyclable fabric covers for the Which? Best Buy winner Indie and Indie Twin, which will be available for pre-order at the show before deliveries start in July.

Bumbleride's international sales director Phil Bronson from the USA will be at Harrogate for the duration of the show meeting buyers and journalists.

Visit Little Saints on Stand B18

Relaxing bathtime

Based in San Francisco, California, maamam strives to create unique products that are modern, functional and safe in order to meet the needs of today’s families.

In 2010 maamam launched its first product, aacua, a 4-in-1 apron, towel, baby-wrap and bath-wrap which has been recognised as one of the most innovative bath products on the market. From newborn age until toddler years, aacua transforms bath time into a more relaxing, safe and fun experience! It is also available in 100% Organic Cotton (Certified to OE-100 Standard).

Visit maamam on Stand H-NAP7

Grey is the new black for SnoozeShade Deluxe

SnoozeShade unveils a new Deluxe range - a luxurious addition to its award-winning sun and sleep shades for prams and pushchairs.

The result of listening to customers’ needs, the new range has all the favourite SnoozeShade features as well as many new ones, including premium, lustrous grey fabric, longer zips and a sleeping baby emblem to let people know it's naptime and baby is not to be disturbed, plus fully-opening front panels on SnoozeShade for Infant Car Seats Deluxe and SnoozeShade Plus Deluxe.

Created to help babies sleep on-the-go, Deluxe also offers high level UV protection with UPF40+.

Visit Snoozeshade on Stand H18

If you love live music, enjoy great food and a good old bop on the dance floor then the Party and BANTA Awards night on Sunday 24th March at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate is not to be missed – and tickets are selling fast so reserve you place if you want to join the fun.

This year Take That 2 will be providing the music - and the special stage effects promise to be outstanding. Tickets are just £40 each (plus VAT) and this includes a delicious three course meal.

Of course this is also a night of celebration for the numerous companies which are shortlisted in the BPA Baby and Nursery Trade Awards - and in particular the 'winners' which will be announced during the evening. For ticket availability contact robert@nurseryfair.co.uk.

Elegant new products from Ireland

Dublin based, Baby Elegance will be launching its exciting range of baby products to the UK market at Harrogate this year, including the Neyo and Beep Twist travel systems which are already a huge success in Ireland. In addition, the company will be showing eight new bedding collections which are extremely good quality and well as competitively priced.

Visit Baby Elegance on Stand G2

Designer Denim

Expectant mums can carry their bump in style with the much anticipated second collection of designer maternity jeans from Mama Jeanius - Beautifully British. Available in three styles in a variety of colours and sizes, Mama Jeanius offers maternity jeans that are uniquely designed to adapt throughout the entire pregnancy, whilst remaining stylish and comfortable.

Visit Mama Jeanius on Stand QP42

Guess How Much We Love You...

From the design team that brought you Baby Joules and Little Suzy's Zoo, Suncrest is launching Guess How Much I Love You at Harrogate Nursery Fair.

A beautiful range of 100% cotton embroidered nursery bedding plus a gorgeous maize Moses basket with soft padded liner, hood and coverlet, a musical mobile, soft cotton cuddle robes and sleeping bags with jersey linings, and a fabulous gift set which includes a super-cute hare comforter and pram blanket.

Also on Stand B3 FunToSee has a brilliant new range of removable wall stickers just for nursery. These best-selling room décor kits are the perfect way to decorate a baby's room and can be used over and over again.

Visit Suncrest on Stand B3

If you have a few questions about legal issues concerning your business, whether it's because a competitor has stolen your design; is asserting rights it doesn't have; or you need a distribution agreement which doesn't breach competition law, the Baby Products Association (BPA) has teamed up with law firm Lupton Fawcett which will be providing free advice at Harrogate Nursery Fair on the BPA stand on Tuesday 26th March between 12pm and 2pm. If you are unable to make this, speak to the BPA team about how to arrange a free consultation.

Visit the BPA on Stand G7

Great for baby gifts

Already loved by thousands of parents, Sock Ons further established itself recently as a new baby 'must-have' by securing a coveted Mother & Baby bronze award in the 'Best Nursery Product' category. While Sock Ons help keep little socks in place, parents and gift buyers looking for something extra special to keep little toes toasty will love the new sneaker range from Mocc Ons.

Mocc Ons are moccasin style slippers, designed to fit babies and toddlers from six months up to three years. They're made of soft and stretchy cotton, stitched to a real leather sole, which helps to prevent slipping. Already available in a range of gorgeous prints and designs, sneaker Mocc Ons are a fun and colourful new range designed to look like mini sneakers!

Both Sock Ons and Moccs Ons are available with smart POS display units, creating fantastic opportunities for impulse buys.

Visit Sock Ons at QP26

Longer wheelbase

Micralite has been granted a patent which describes the facility to extend the wheelbase of the stroller. The resulting Twofold can be converted from a lightweight short wheel base to a more versatile long wheel base by a flick of a latch with the foot. An integral rider board can then be accessed. Alternatively the dedicated 40 litre shopping bag or the additional rear infant seat can be attached making it a double stroller weighing in at just 12kgs.

Visit Micralite on stand C26 for a breathtaking demonstration

Introducing top brand from Hong Kong

Proud to bring the nursery industry innovative ideas from all over the world, Bibs and Stuff is pleased to announce that together with its parent company, ISI.BV it is now the sole European distributor for another top nursery brand Unlimited Innovation from Hong Kong. Bibs and Stuff will be launching the brand's Babyzoo and Jahgoo ranges at Harrogate, so do come along and see these cleverly designed and space efficient bedtime, bathroom and feeding items which will be available from May.

Bibs and Stuff is also particularly excited to be showing a number of new items from its New York based Skip-Hop brand, including two lower price point changing bags and also showcasing its range of innovative travel products from US brand giant Brica, while the latest fabrics will be on show for the popular Bebe au Lait Nursing Cover.

Visit Bibs and Stuff on Stand H50

Want to read about latest new baby products?

Lots of people have been getting in touch asking how they can subscribe to our newsletters to find out about new product launches taking place at the show. To receive our news, you simply need to pre-register online and you will automatically be subscribed.

Flying high

Kite is a childrens' wear brand built on fabulous design, quality that lasts and a desire to protect the planet and will showcase its new Autumn/Winter 2013 collection at Harrogate.

Developed for children aged from baby to 11 years old, the clothes feature distinctive design elements that have been influenced by the beauty of the Kite's natural surroundings in Dorset.

All of the garments in the new collection have been made using the softest organic cotton or fleece made with at least 50% recycled materials. They have a unique and casual look distinctive to Kite and a quality that is comfortable, hard wearing and long lasting.

Visit Kite on Stand H25

Quiet and calming

Magic Mitten from New Zealand is a hand-held patented baby calming aid designed to be effective, safe and portable to soothe babies when they are upset.

The product is designed to be offered up to a baby’s ear to deliver white noise at a safe and fixed volume level and not audible to others. The clever design allows it to be easily used whilst holding the baby or can be offered whilst the baby is in a crib, car seat or pram. The device can be easily used when out and about, just pop it in your bag and use it anywhere, anytime. During use the sounds cannot be heard by others in the immediate vicinity making it very unobtrusive.

Visit Magic Mitten on Stand QP56

Better by design

Starting in 2004 with the ambition to develop the most complete pushchair, Joolz has grown into a brand that does exactly that and more. Its pushchairs are designed around the human body: the products are complete and comfortable for both parent and child. For example, the pictured limited edition Joolz Day Tokyo is decorated with symbolic, playful patterns of illustrations, created by Japanese designer, papercraft artist and illustrator Hiyoko Imai.

Joolz cares for its customers and the world we are living in. This shows in the products and services as well as the associates and partners the company works with.
Joolz loves to contribute to happy times: from pregnancy to the first day in school - calling it Positive Design.

Visit Joolz on stand B04

It’s less than a month until the UK's only nursery trade show and buyers can anticipate some fabulous new product launches and latest autumn and winter collections all under one convenient roof at Harrogate Nursery Fair this year. Please read on for some fine examples of exhibitor ranges – and check out the exhibitor list for a full list of companies attending.

Japanese pushchair brand launches into the UK

After much anticipation Combi is now only weeks away from its UK launch at Harrogate Nursery Fair where the company will unveil its first ever UK collection, having already experienced great success in America and Australia.

The portfolio presented includes the flagship Urban Walker Prestige which has been adapted for the UK market. The other design from the stroller range that is being launched is the Well Carry. The strollers are compact and lightweight with an easy one hand open and fold mechanism. Combi’s stroller handle is one of a kind with its continuous curve to make steering easy and its innovative reversible handle to give parent's (and baby) choice.

Visit Combi on Stand H60

Sleep sheep sensor

Commemorating 11 successful years of products and programs to help children sleep, Cloud b is set to take centre-stage at the Harrogate Nursery Fair with Sleep Sheep Smart Sensor.

Enhancing the award-winning Sleep Sheep, Cloud b introduces the ultimate innovation in sleep technology. Sleep Sheep Smart Sensor is designed to alleviate stress and promote tranquility amongst children and parents with the convenience of a sound-activated sensor.

The new sensor was designed from a team of sleep experts with the vision of creating the best night’s sleep for the whole family in an effortless and relaxing way.

Visit Cloud b on Stand D2

Buckle up

Belt Up Kidz is a Retrofit buckle that helps prevent young children from removing their arms from the shoulder straps of their car seats, highchairs, buggies and trikes.

The buckle is adjustable to allow child growth across the chest area; the clips can also be adjusted further up the straps as the child gets taller. Belt Up Kidz comes with a choice of two covers, either a pink princess or blue dinosaur cover. So no more little arms escaping and less distraction!

Visit Belt Up Kidz on Stand B37

We hope that visitors to Harrogate Nursery Fair will take the time to offer a warm welcome to our US colleagues who are situated in Hall H. These include the organisers of ABC Kids Expo – the USA’s leading nursery trade show which takes place in Las Vegas this year – Halo Innovations, Lillebaby, Zoli, Bumkins Finer Baby Products, iplay, Rockaby Baby Music and Innobaby. The companies offer a diverse range of products from feeding, babycare and teething accessories, baby carriers, sleep sacks and even lullaby renditions of baby’s favourite rock bands! For a full list of over 200 exhibitors this year click here.

Best for baby

Perlimpinpin is known in Canada for its innovative collection of baby accessories: nap bags and blankets made of soft muslin, cosy plush and organic bamboo and is pleased show its range to Harrogate visitors for the first time.

Founded in 1985 and based in the beautiful city of Québec, Perlimpinpin is recognised as a Canadian leader in the baby product industry and Isabelle Matte, co-owner explains: “Our purpose and inspiration is to help today's families live their lives capturing the intensity and emotion of the present moment. That is why our team takes so much care in creating our products.”

Visit Perlimpinpin on stand QP11

Flying with babies just got easier

SkyBaby is a brand new baby travel mattress which will not only be at Harrogate Nursery Fair as one of the BPA’s Innovation Award Finalists, but will be exhibiting for the first time too. The product is designed to make flying with a baby easier and more comfortable for children and parents.

SkyBaby is designed to work with the aeroplane’s infant loop belt, and allows the baby to lie across an adult’s knee in a natural sleeping position. It supports baby’s back and head leaving baby safe, secure, and happy for the flight.

A recent product tester commented: “It worked. It was my fifth trip with my baby girl, and it freed up my arms, which made the flight much more enjoyable. Instead of using my arm as a cushion, the baby was on the comfy bed in my lap with the seat belt strapped around the SkyBaby wings that fold around baby’s tummy. This meant the seat belt didn’t have to touch her clothes either. She seemed to love flying on her new bed. She slept for two and a half hours straight at lunchtime.”

Visit SkyBaby on Stand QP28 – and all orders placed at the show will receive a 10% discount.

Thermal first

Pourty International Limited, the company behind the bestselling Pourty Easy-to-Potty, is launching at Harrogate the ingenious and stylish 3-in-One Thermal Baby Bottle from Pacific Baby. These are believed to be the first thermal baby bottles on the market in the United Kingdom. They keep liquid warm or cold for up to six hours (4 oz model), or up to ten hours (7 oz model) and are perfect for bottle feeding when out and about when parents don’t have access to a recently boiled kettle.

These versatile bottles can convert to a sip cup (suitable from about 9 months) and then to a drink bottle for older children. Parents will be able to keep their child’s drinks at the perfect temperature from birth to school.

Visit Pourty on Stand H1

Market Research Company NPD invites exhibitors and visitors at Harrogate Nursery Fair to an eye-opening half an hour breakfast presentation at 8.45am on Monday 25^th March, to discover the latest trends in the nursery industry.

NPD partners with a number of major retailers including John Lewis, Kiddicare, Mothercare, BabiesRus as well as the majority of major supermarket chains contributing to the most comprehensive view ever of the UK’s nursery market.

Andrew Griffiths and Jez Fraser-Hook of NPD will share some actual top line findings from full year 2012 data in the UK, including some interesting facts and figures. They will touch on positive market trends and include some European trends from the infant and pre-school toy sector.

To register to attend Harrogate Nursery Fair visit: Click here

Perfect for tiny hands

Babycup will be demonstrating its delightful new range of miniature open drinking cups that neatly fit into the palm of a baby’s hand at Harrogate Nursery Fair this year. Gorgeous, translucent colours, clean lines, no nooks or crannies and very cute, Babycup’s drinking edge is slim with a small circumference – perfect for little mouths.

Suitable from six months, Babycup encourages sipping and supports oral health and helps to develop fine motor skills – in fact it has the thumbs up from healthcare professionals. Babycup can also be used for new-borns, including premature babies as a cup-feeding option for milk.

Visit Babycup on Stand QP55

Everyday parenting solutions

Quack Quack Moo will be exhibiting its growing range of products specifically designed to help parents with fundamental everyday things such as: behaviour, feeding, potty training, sleeping and teething. Not advice so much as practical solutions. For example, Dribble Bubbs is a range of products using special technology; a waterproof protection guard with layers that absorb efficiently, dry quickly and keep your little one happy, clean and chaff free. The range includes bibs, bed and seat protectors as well as a shoulder chuck.

No on the Go is a behavioural system perfect for any parent familiar with the time out technique or a naughty step. Welcome to the portable naughty spot and a range of warn and reward cards along with some really fabulously designed stickers that enable parents to take their behavioural parenting tools with them wherever they go.

Visit Quack Quack Moo on Stand H20

Bond with baby

Cosyplay is introducing a brand new concept in baby play mats.  The Cosyplay mat was designed as a comfortable floor mat for parents that want to spend time interacting and bonding with their baby.  It has a super comfortable memory foam core, is covered in soft-touch waterproof PU laminate and features a zip removable machine washable fleece cover.

Cosyplay  is large and comfortable enough for babies and their parents and can be used outdoors and in the house even on the hardest floors.  Don’t miss the opportunity to try this comfortable baby play mat first hand at Harrogate.

Visit Cosyplay on Stand QP40

Harrogate Nursery Fair is the UK's only baby trade show and the first port of call of the year for buyers and retailers seeking innovative new products to tempt customers throughout the year. Once again the show promises a host of exciting new launches from almost all of the top pushchair and car seat brands, as well as some interesting newcomers to the industry with great add on and gift ranges. This year the show also sees an increase in pre-school toy companies, making Harrogate a one-stop-shop for every baby product you can imagine from feeding, cleaning and clothing, transport and travel accessories, to furniture, toys and gift items.

Don't forget to pre-register for free entry.

Teether and bib in one

Brand new to the UK market is a product launch from Edinburgh, designed by two mumpreneurs Julie Wilson and Amy Livingstone, who will be displaying their Cheeky Chompers Neckerchew at Harrogate Nursery Fair for the first time.

Julie explains: "The Neckerchew concept came out of necessity, having to constantly pick up and re-sanitise dropped teethers, we thought 'why not create a teething product that is attached to the baby."

The initial Neckerchew product range includes nine stylish designs, each with their own patterned front. Fully reversible, the Neckerchew is made from soft Jersey cotton that is delicate on young skin, but highly absorbent. The textured triangle-shaped teether at the base of the Neckerchew has been developed in a specialised silicon and uses an innovative design to massage and sooth tender gums.

Visit Cheeky Chompers on Stand QP10

Renolux returns

Introducing a new concept in car safety seats, which is currently taking Europe by storm, Renolux returns to Harrogate this year with its range of products combining maximum safety, extreme comfort and easy installation. With safety tensioners, shock absorbers and side protection, the company's concept is innovative including high density foam technology. Retailers are invited to visit the Renolux stand to discover its new group 0+/1 AUSTIN as well as many other products.

Visit Renolux on Stand B20

The countdown is now on for the UK's only nursery trade show which is now a truly international event for anyone involved in baby and pre-school products, from nursery and feeding equipment, through to toys, early learning, clothing and gift ranges.

Once again Harrogate is a sold out show in 2013 and buyers are guaranteed eight Halls packed with the latest, innovative baby products with the chance to see many fabulous new launches before they hit retailer's shelves this summer.

For the very first time, Harrogate warmly welcomes our US counterparts with 10 companies participating in a North American Pavilion, introducing some exciting American designed products to the UK market. With 20 countries exhibiting at the show this year, retailers and buyers will have the opportunity to view international ranges right on their doorstep.

Over the next few weeks we will be highlighting the best of what our exhibitors have to offer - so please forward this Newsletter to likeminded colleagues - and don't forget to pre-register for the show. Full information is available on this website.

Great Gizmos appointed distributor for Plan Toys

Buyers seeking eco-friendly wooden toys can view the latest collection from Plan Toys, as Great Gizmos was granted full distribution rights in January and will be showcasing the range at Harrogate.

Great Gizmos' director Judith Dayus commented: "We are delighted to be granted the Plan Toys distributorship. We have for many years had wooden toys in our collection but the addition of this brand means we have one of the most comprehensive wooden toy portfolios in the market. The excellence in quality and the green credentials of this brand makes it a definitive choice for parents of younger children and it is our intention to ensure that the collection is as widely available to the consumer as possible."

Visit Great Gizmos on Stand A7

Home cooking to go

Parents wanting to feed their babies freshly cooked home-made food, but with the portability and convenience of shop bought are guaranteed to love the latest new product to launch at Harrogate - the Fill n Squeeze System. This allows parents to cook food, hand-blend and then fill into convenient pouches to either freeze or chill until required.

The pouches are BPA free, freezer, microwave, bottle warmer and steriliser friendly and include name and date labels. When ready to use, simply squeeze the contents onto a spoon - or the child can suck food directly from the pouch making them extremely convenient for parents, but great fun for children too. Rifat Jan, creator of Fill n Squeeze said: "When I first came up with the idea, I was convinced that something like this must already exist. When I realised there was nothing like it on the market, I was compelled to develop a system to help parents to prepare, store and feed fresh homemade food."

Visit Fill n Feed on Stand H19

For the second year running, Harrogate Nursery Fair is almost sold out five months before its doors open to the 2013 show; and consequently the organisers are moving into more new halls at the Harrogate International Centre next year.

Hall G is situated on the ground floor and promises to attract visitors flocking to see the latest new launches from companies such as Britax, Graco, Joie, Bebetto and Boori (which returns to the show with its exclusive range of high quality furniture) while also making use of the VIP Lounge which proved so popular last year.

Adrian Sneyd, show organiser, comments: "Harrogate Nursery Fair is certainly growing and demand for space appears to be increasing year-on-year. The show has seen a notable increase in overseas exhibitors and more international visitors - probably because the spring timing contrasts with most other international nursery trade shows which take place later in year."

Harrogate Nursery Fair 2013, which takes place from 24th to 26th March, now spans eight halls packed with almost every nursery product imaginable. As well as all of the regular well-known brands which return each year, the show also welcomes numerous first time exhibitors and there is a possibility of new international pavilions - which if come to fruition, will create an entire new dimension to the show.

Also, working closely with the Baby Products Association (BPA), Harrogate Nursery Fair is home to the Baby and Nursery Trade Awards (BANTAs), bringing some healthy competition to the show and also for the first time, the BPA's Concept & Innovation Awards. These widely recognised Awards which helped to launch brands such as The Wean Machine, Chillipeeps and Monkey Swimmers encourage innovative new product development in the nursery sector and promise to attract significant interest from buyers seeking exciting new product ideas as well as international press.

Adrian adds: "Harrogate is more accessible than ever before, with British Airways recently reinstating its Heathrow to Leeds/Bradford flights for just £55 each way, plus direct rail lines from London and the M1 right on the doorstep. With its wealth of quality hotels and restaurants at very affordable prices, not to mention its historic interest, Harrogate is a favourite destination for the UK nursery industry."

After what was the largest 2012 show on record, Harrogate Nursery Fair looks to be setting a trend with the organisers reporting that around 80 per cent of current exhibition space is now reserved again for next year.

Adrian Sneyd, show organiser, comments: "We completely revamped the look of the fair this year by opening a number of new halls and a new entrance, and judging from the bookings that we have already received at this early stage, it appears to have been a highly successful improvement! We anticipate that there may be some changes this year, but these will be to accommodate the requests we are now receiving for increases in stand size by quite a number of exhibitors".

"We would advise companies wishing to exhibit to let us know what they require as soon as possible so we can factor those requirements into our plans".

Companies that have already completed the online booking form should not be concerned if they have not received a reply already. Stand allocation is about to commence and the floor plans will start to be developed over the next few months when everyone will be contacted.

For more information and to book online visit: The Booking Form

Just over a month after the doors closed on what proved to be one of the most successful Harrogate Nursery Fairs on record, the organising team is delighted to open priority bookings for exhibitors to reserve their previous stand space, or request a new position, for the 2013 show which takes place from 24th to 26th March 2013.

Adrian Sneyd, Harrogate Nursery Fair organiser, comments: "We were completely overwhelmed with demand for exhibition space this year and as a consequence had to open additional halls in order to accommodate every company wishing to exhibit. With over 200 exhibitors this proved to be the biggest Harrogate Nursery Fair ever and post show response from both exhibitors and visitors was incredibly positive all round.

"We have already received numerous enquiries from companies wishing to participate next year and additionally companies requesting moves to new locations. However, it is only fair that previous exhibitors have the opportunity to re-book their space or request a new location before opening the doors to other companies."

As an exhibitor at the 2012 Harrogate Nursery Fair you have until 15th June 2012 to re-book your space, or request an alternative position. After this deadline space will be opened up to all companies and allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Booking is quick and easy and can be done online HERE - so sign up today to avoid disappointment.

The doors of the Harrogate International Centre closed on the most successful Nursery Fair on record in March with more exhibitors than ever before in the show's 43 year history.

The eight exhibitions halls, including brand new halls and stairways in the recently refurbished and improved International Centre provided a modern new feel to this much loved and well-established event and the vibrant atmosphere throughout the three days was remarked upon by both exhibitors and visitors alike.

Judith Stark, managing director of Halilit, said: "We really did come away from the show buzzing! We had a fabulous Nursery Fair and everyone we met was really positive. We opened a significant number of new accounts and as result of the show it looks as though we will soon be working with at least two new major national accounts - one of which was still on our stand when the announcement came through that the show had ended - we really did finish on a high!"

Claire Lavelle, editor of Prima Baby, commented: "It was a great show, with a really good mix of products and brands from the big household names to the smaller brands which are just starting out with some inspired ideas. It is really great to have all the exhibitors in one space - makes life so much easier!" Whilst the quantity and quality of exhibitors is what appears to be drawing more and more visitors back to Harrogate Nursery Fair each year, it has to be commented that one of the big draws for exhibitors returning to the show is the outstanding service received from the dedicated show organising team - a fact highlighted by numerous exhibitors after the show. Shaun Bradley of Toddlerboards said: "This was my first show - so how lucky was I! I simply cannot believe that all shows are this well run and the whole experience was a pure pleasure thanks to the courteous and always helpful nature of everyone involved. I can see why it is known as the friendly show - thanks a million and can't wait to return next year!"

Sue Griffiths of Hauck Group added: "Robert and his team must be congratulated for putting on a well organised show and also for arranging our entertainment. The two party nights were well attended with some revellers not getting to bed much before dawn!"

Adrian Sneyd, who heads the Harrogate Nursery Fair organising team said: "This year's show has certainly exceeded all of our expectations. The new changes we made certainly seemed to go down very well on the whole, with exhibitors and customers alike enjoying the refreshing change experiencing all the new halls for the first time. We have received numerous calls and emails, particularly from exhibitors stating how successful the show has been for them this year and commenting on the amazing buzz surrounding the event. The fabulous weather certainly set the scene for visitors arriving and the sunny mood seemed to radiate throughout the halls for the entire duration of the show."

To re-book for 2013, look out for our e-newsletter that will be sent out during early May. This will announce the opening of the 2013 ONLINE booking process which gives every exhibitor who attended this year the chance to RETAIN their stand again or tell us if they would like to move next year. This EARLY booking window will be open until the end of June 2012 after which any remaining stands will go on a first requested-first served basis.

With this year a completely sold out show, it is recommended to book your space early to avoid disappointment.

Click HERE for show testimonials.