The health crisis and the nursery business
The coronacrisis has caused a dramatic change in our industry. Now the BCMI members report about the current business situation resulting from the coronavirus infection in various countries. Read here in a new series of articles on how industry, retailers and consumers have been affected by the pandemic.
Part 3: Italy
Daniele Caroli, Parents’ Choice International Managing Editor, applied to Luca Tomasi, CEO of L’Inglesina Baby, nursery products manufacturer
How are nursery producers/distributors in your country doing right now?
„In order to carry on with our activities we have enforced all the necessary protocols to protect the workers’ health. We have done our best to assist the consumers through social media, personal shoppers, direct contacts, having to fill the void left by the shops’ closure. Many retailers however have reacted enhancing their online presence and service to their customers with home deliveries and personalized support and advice. We have granted delays of payment to several retailers.”
How has the behavior of consumers of baby products changed?
„In Europe now most shops have reopened and the market is lively again, because many consumers just postponed their purchases. Consumers are more determined and faster in their decisions. There has been a strong slowdown in sales for buggies and car seats, but there should be a recovery when families will start moving again.”
What could replace trade exhibitions in our industry this year?
„What I know for sure is that we will not exhibit at Kind + Jugend this year, like many other companies, I think. Koelnmesse has not postponed or cancelled the event yet, but due to the situation (reduced flights, fear to be infected, decrease of the companies’ turnovers and ensuing reassessment of the investments) I expect a decision to be taken very soon.”