This ad will be closed automatically in X seconds.

“The health of the preschool sector is very good”

Aykroyd & Sons’ Sion Aykroyd on why he’s hoping for considerable growth in the category this year.

While the licensed preschool apparel category is a healthy one, it is not without its challenges.

Uncertainty around Brexit, cautious retailers and lack of shelf space are all concerns, however key new and established properties are causing excitement and appetite for product seems undiminished.

Our sister title, PreschoolNews caught up with some of the key licensees in the space to find out how 2018 was and how 2019 is shaping up.

Today: Sion Aykroyd, sales and licensing executive, Aykroyd & Sons

“2018 overall was quite challenging, with Brexit uncertainty looming and a fragile retail climate filtering through affecting the retailers’ confidence in buying. These have resulted in less shelf space and less options on licensed product. Combine this with a weak pound versus the dollar and it’s a recipe for a perfect retail storm!

PAW Patrol, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, PJ Masks and Hey Duggee are currently very hot and warm weather has boosted early sales on swimwear and shortie pyjamas.

The health of the preschool sector is very good – there is plenty of variety. Toy Story 4 will be huge, plus Top Wing, The Gruffalo, Elf on the Shelf and The Lion King remake also looks stunning. And, of course, Frozen 2 is on its way.

Based on the strong line-up of movies and a combination of new and classic licences, I would certainly hope to see considerable growth on the preschool category versus last year.”

This feature originally appeared in the March/April 2019 edition of Progressive Preschool. To read the full publication, click on this link.

MORE NEWS
TfLlunchbox500x500
 
Designed by creative agency Crush Creative, the guide includes a set of colourful, illustrated assets that draw on TfL’s heritage and serve as a toolkit for licensees developing products for young audiences....
Tulipop500x500
 
Tulipop Studios - creator and owner of the Icelandic character-based Tulipop IP - is growing into new markets having secured a number of fresh deals....
YakkaDee500x500
 
Rachel Bardill and Liz Keynes - both well known and respected family and children's brand strategists - have come on board to further drive awareness for the preschool show....
AliceBurden500x500
 
In her new role, Alice will be responsible for steering and driving forward the strategic and creative direction of Toon2Tango, focusing on storytelling and creative development....
job
 
H&A is looking to further strengthen its team with the appointment of a supply chain planner....
SManners500x500
 
Industry trade body, Licensing International has responded to Labour's Budget from earlier this week, saying that moving forward 'beloved brands' will be more important than ever before in providing a point of difference....
Get the latest news sent to your inbox
Subscribe to our daily newsletter

The list doesn't exist! Make sure you have imported the list on the 'Manage List Forms' page.