The Biz

Shark Tank has been a Friday night viewing tradition of mine since its premier in August, 2009. Many children’s businesses have been on the program, so it is also a favorite for our industry. Recently, Betsy Johnson and her brother Berry Wanless pitched the “Sharks” to invest in their SwimZip brand of protective designer sunwear for a $60,000 investment and a percentage of equity ownership.

In February, we celebrate love on Valentine’s Day and our country’s leadership on Presidents’ Day. For retailers, it’s a season for fun gifts and personal presents that show affection in all degrees, from puppy love to lifelong commitment. Make the season a reason to find new gifts for your store. Here I present one handful of finds that I love…

The 111th annual American International Toy Fair^® is running from February 16-19, 2014 (Sunday-Wednesday) at New York’s Javits Convention Center. Retailers, inventors, businesses of all sizes, distributors, manufacturers, and anyone with anything to do with the children’s toy market will descend on one of the biggest shows ever. After its 2013 record-smashing show, attendees can expect the best in products and the serious consideration of global companies. A peek at exhibitors reveals that Smart Games and Toys, Ubooly, Shure Products, and Super Impulse will all make an appearance.

It’s time to PLAE! This unique shoe company is at the forefront of design and function, offering customizable shoes that look great and promote healthy foot development. One look at this fancy footwear will make most kids beg to have a pair, and will have grown-ups wishing that they’d had shoes this cool when they were young. What’s so special about PLAE shoes? They look great for many reasons, but it’s all about the tabs. All Velcro shoes have fastening tabs, but PLAE takes it up a notch. Customers can purchase additional fastening tabs in a mind-boggling variety of colors and prints, so that they can create a whole new look for their shoes whenever the mood strikes.