Laura Tenison, owner of JoJo Maman Bébé, says:
What does it mean to you to be a British brand?
For me, it’s all about designing classic, practical and high quality products whilst offering exemplary customer service and being environmentally responsible. Like many British companies, we are a home-grown brand that people trust.
What are the Brits best at?
I think we’re a practical, realistic bunch with a real ‘can-do’ attitude, and it shows in our designs, which are built to last and withstand everything life throws at them.
How did your company begin?
I’d had a near fatal head-on collision which led to an extended spell in hospital. There was a mother of two young children in the bed next to mine complaining about the lack of good quality children’s fashion available via mail order. That was my light bulb moment.
Do you now export / sell abroad and if so, where?
We launched our international trade department in 2011 and have gone from strength to strength in the years since. We started off with trade fairs in New York and now sell our range through agents across the US, Europe, Japan and Russia. In 2015, we launched our dedicated B2C website in the US, where retail customers can buy our clothes directly from us.
What’s your best new product this year?
I’m always particularly fond of our children’s outerwear, and this season we’ve released some fabulous new prints. We’re all about getting the kids out whatever the weather, so having practical gear that’s fun to wear is essential. We’ve also collaborated with the much loved Sophie la Girafe this year and designed a range of exclusive sleepsuits and accessories that make wonderful gifts.