Industry news INSIDE OUT TOYS APPOINTED AS EXCLUSIVE UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR SMARTIVITY STEM KITS Inside Out Toys, a leading UK distributor of sustainable and educational toys, is excited to announce a new partnership with innovative toy brand Smartivity. From 1st July 2025, Inside Out Toys will become the exclusive UK distributor for a range of Smartivity STEM-based construction and science kits, aimed at children aged 6 years and above. Designed to inspire young minds through hands-on play, Smartivity kits combine STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) with creative construction to provide hours of educational fun. The range includes everything from mechanical models to art-meets-engineering projects, all made from high-quality, sustainable materials. With retail prices starting at just £11.99, Smartivity kits offer accessible and engaging options for independent toy and gift retailers, garden centres, museums, and educational stores looking to expand their offerings in the growing STEM toy sector. Julian Garner, Director of Inside Out Toys, commented: “We are thrilled to bring Smartivity to the UK market. Their awardwinning kits are not only fun and educational but also align with our commitment to sustainability and child development. We believe this range will be a fantastic addition for retailers seeking purposeful and planet-friendly products.” The Smartivity range will be available to order from 1st July 2025 via the Inside Out Toys B2B platform, with marketing support and POS materials available to stockists. For more information or to request a catalogue, please contact: sales@insideouttoys.co.uk, www.insideouttoys.co.uk Catch up on all the latest in our news round up NATIONAL TRUST FOR SCOTLAND LAUNCHES LICENSING PROGRAM TO ‘SHARE THE LOVE OF SCOTLAND’ The National Trust for Scotland, Scotland’s largest independent conservation charity, has launched its first official brand licensing program. The charity that cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s heritage will, through this initiative, aim to extend the reach of the Trust’s iconic brand; allow audiences across the globe to enjoy a slice of Scotland and the Trust wherever they are; and generate additional funding to support its vital conservation work across Scotland. As a brand and charity looking towards its centenary, the 94-year-old Trust stands for Scottish authenticity, heritage, and quality, and is working alongside partners to develop products that reflect Scotland’s unique stories, people, and places. This includes allowing access to a rich archive of thousands of assets – from historic illustrations, architectural details, and textiles to traditional patterns, botanical drawings, and decorative arts – spanning centuries of Scottish culture and craftsmanship. From architects to poets, beautiful film locations to pink castles – the Trust’s diversity of places offer something for everyone. “We are excited to launch our first ever licensing program at National Trust for Scotland,” said Caroline Reid, Director of Commercial Enterprises, National Trust for Scotland. “This is an important moment for the Trust - our licensing program allows us to collaborate with best-in-class partners who share our values, while unlocking the creative and commercial potential of our collections and places. Every licensed product will help protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage for generations to come.” Funds raised through licensing will go directly toward the care and conservation of more than 100 historic properties, over 76,000 hectares of countryside, and thousands of artefacts in the charity’s collection. Working alongside Speak Consulting, the Trust will curate a portfolio of licensees across categories such as homeware, gifting, apparel, stationery and food and drink. The program will be underpinned by a strong focus on sustainability, provenance, and storytelling. “We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Trust for Scotland,” said Graham Speak, Director at Speak Consulting. “This is a great opportunity to create authentic, Scottish ranges alongside the Trust, with its brand, expertise and diverse assets. There’s a wealth of design inspiration and licensing potential – and we’re excited to do new things with a unique Scottish twist!” Expressions of interest are open to prospective partners in the UK and beyond, with initial partners to be announced over the coming months. www.nts.org.uk/licensing 8
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