resilient, make difficult decisions and constantly adapt, but we’ve never lost sight of why we started or the relationships we’ve built with our retailers. Tell us about your product offering. What started with one pair of leggings has grown into a complete baby clothing and gifting collection from newborn to six years. We now design everything from rompers, bibs and muslin squares to comforters, plush toys, backpacks, hoodies, dresses, booties and beautifully presented gift boxes. We also work with some of the world’s most loved children’s characters, creating premium gifting collections that families genuinely treasure. What are your most popular products? Our knitted leggings will always be at the heart of Blade & Rose and remain our bestselling product. Alongside those, our coordinated gift sets, two way zip rompers and licensed collections have become favourites with both parents and grandparents looking for thoughtful gifts. Have any styles taken you by surprise with their popularity? Definitely. The success of our gifting ranges have really taken off. Customers love being able to buy beautifully coordinated gifts that feel special without costing a fortune. How do you keep your designs fresh and current? Do you follow trends? Inspiration comes from everywhere, from nature, wildlife and travel to listening closely to our customers. We have a small fantastic team, many of whom have been with us for over 10 years. Every new idea is openly discussed, and everyone is encouraged to contribute, which brings a real mix of creativity and experience to each collection. We keep an eye on colour and design trends, but we’re careful not to follow fashions that will quickly date. I want someone to look at a Blade & Rose product years later and still think it’s just as beautiful as the day they bought it. What sets you apart from your competitors? We were the original UK brand to launch the concept of knitted leggings with fun characters on the bottom, and that innovation remains at the heart of who we are today. Everything we create is designed in house with love and attention to detail. As a family business, we focus on exceptional quality, practicality and creating products that become treasured keepsakes as well as everyday essentials. I believe customers connect with the genuine story behind Blade & Rose and our passion for creating thoughtful, premium baby gifts that stand the test of time. What are some stand out moments since the company launch? There have been so many pinch-me moments. Most recent being Winning Gift of the Year, as was being Awarded Kidswear Brand of the Year at the Drapers Awards, Gold Junior Design Awards and a we’re beyond proud our Peter Rabbit Neutral Collection won the 1st Choice Mum Awards. What makes this award so special? It’s voted for by parents – and with over 17,000 votes cast, we are incredibly honoured that so many mums chose us. Seeing Blade & Rose stocked by independent retailers across the UK and around the world still makes me incredibly proud. How are you finding the current climate in the UK? Is it affecting business? There’s no doubt it’s challenging. Costs continue to rise and retailers are understandably cautious. But babies keep being born and people still want to celebrate those special moments. We’re finding customers are looking for something that feels more meaningful and lasts, which fits perfectly with what we offer. 53 COMPANY PROFILE
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