As the UK’s national childrenswear trade show, INDX Kids plays a vital role in uniting the industry each season across its two-day events. Alongside order-taking, brands also exhibit at INDX Kids for networking opportunities, which are supported by the show’s friendly yet business-focused format.
For Sally Dear, founder and CEO of Ducky Zebra, INDX Kids provides a platform to build relationships with retailers. “We’re delighted to be returning to INDX Kids in January with our sustainable, fun and stereotype-free clothing. Building strong relationships with our stockists is really important to us, so we value the friendly format of the show, which gives us the opportunity to catch up with existing customers while also making new connections. Do pop by and say hello if you’re visiting.”
Alongside building sales, Early Days uses INDX Kids’ relaxed setting to network and promote the craftsmanship and quality of its UK-manufactured baby and toddler shoes.
“We are really looking forward to seeing our customers and potential customers at INDX Kids,” says brand representative Emily Beardsworth. “It’s our one opportunity of the season to showcase the whole collection, NOS and new styles and colours, and to talk through our marketing plans and how we can work together to build sales. We find the relaxed and informal atmosphere of INDX Kids perfect for this and for meeting new customers.”
Following an absence since pre-pandemic times, leading organic kidswear brand Toby Tiger is returning to the show in January to reconnect with industry peers while showcasing its vibrant and sustainable collection.
“INDX Kids, the UK’s premier national trade show for the childrenswear industry, is renowned for curating an expert selection of both UK and international labels,” says Toby Tiger’s Suze Haffenden. “The event serves as a hub for kidswear shops, department stores, garden centres and boutiques, providing a unique platform for brands to connect with key players in the market. The team is eager to reconnect with familiar faces, forge new partnerships, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the UK childrenswear industry.”
Further testament to the event’s integral role within the UK childrenswear industry is the number of brands that continue to return year-on-year.
One such brand is Dandelion, which has exhibited at almost every edition since the show began. “INDX Kids is a must-go show for the independent retailer,” confirms Danelion’s Mike Dean. “The show itself is in an excellent environment and there are always fantastic companies showcasing their products.”
Fable & Bear is also looking forward to returning to INDX Kids in January following a successful debut at the July show, where its organic cotton knitted clothing and accessories for 0-3 years grabbed the attention of buyers.
“We had such lovely feedback, lots of ‘oohs and ahhs’ as people walked past and then diverted their attention to come and look at the range and see the detail in the product,” says brand owner Helen Locke. “Fable & Bear has the perfect giftable items for your own family or the little people in your lives, and we look forward to sharing this with you. We are excited to see all the buyers who were there before and any new faces this time, too.”
The Little Blazer Company®, meanwhile, will be exhibiting at INDX Kids for the first time this season, having been attracted to the show for its relaxed, comfortable environment and easy navigation. “INDX Kids appeals to the most innovative and unique of brands, enabling a friendly environment to showcase with ease and forge long-lasting, fruitful relationships,” says Ria Morgan, founder, designer and CEO of The Little Blazer Company®.
Show information
INDX Kids takes place on 28-29 January 2024 at Cranmore Park Exhibition and Conference Centre in Solihull. The show is free to attend and open to all retailers. Onsite parking is free, and visitors also enjoy complimentary barista coffee and refreshments, plus free breakfast pastries.
For further information, visitor registration and to view the full exhibitor list, please click here. Alternatively, follow the show’s latest updates @INDXFashion.