The Biz

What has four sides and keeps babies clean? It’s not a quiz, it’s a Quib — the totally reversible bib from Bébé au Lait that gives parents the possibility of four clean sides. Feeding a baby is always an adventure, so why not make it a personalized one? Dibs on Bibs has enjoyable shapes that make mealtime more fun. Kiddologic’s bibit-all features long sleeves with ribbed cuffs, a high-ribbed collar, full coverage that extends to the lap and an innovative waterproof lining. Bella Bundles proves functional doesn’t have to be boring with the Reversible Black Hollywood Bib, which features a modern geometric pattern in black or pink.

Attending a panel discussion presented about how retailers can better work with bloggers and social media outlets, I remembered Marshall McLuhan’s famous quote from my college days: “The medium is the message.” He meant something about the medium influencing, and thus becoming part of, how the message is perceived. It kinda confused me then, just as I realized after the Q&A session that there is a lot of confusion about the ever-changing online media called “social.” Some retailers remained puzzled as to why anyone would be interested in what moms say about their families. One reason they should care is because many of these messages are influencing buying decisions and helping to build brands.

You may have been offered a penny for your thoughts, but what would you say to someone who is willing to plunk down a cool $15,000 for them? That’s what Huggies is offering to moms who come out on top in its MomInspired grant program. Kimberly-Clark’s Huggies brand, long known for its quality baby and child products, also lends a helping hand to moms with bright ideas. The Huggies grant is awarded to ideas that are creative, useful, and have marketing power. Past winners include companies like Linda M. Varga’s Solar Eclipz (ezShade) and Allyson Phillips’s Tilty Cup.