Member Article

It's child's play... Events company hires out toys to families as they struggle homeschooling in lockdown

A children’s role play company has turned its events business on its head by introducing a new model whereby struggling parents can hire props and toys to support with childcare during the on-going lock down.

‘Little City’ in Chelmsford centres has pivoted hiring out toys and equipment for parties and events as business dried up when the initial COVID-19 crisis hit.

Owner Lucy Huartson was forced to go back to the drawing board, she realised that, rather than closing, she could offer families struggling to occupy kids stuck at home the opportunity to hire out her products for home use instead.

Lucy believes the key to success during this period has been maintaining communication going with customers and being honest with clients.

She said: “Initially I found myself frustrated that some businesses around me were able to transfer online. I knew this wasn’t an option however as tangibility is at the heart of the Little City experience.

“I knew that we had to completely pivot the business to be able to stay visible and afloat during this time. After taking some time to reflect and gauge what was safe and acceptable, the idea grew.

“The feedback and take up have been really positive and I’ve definitely developed a resilience that I haven’t tested to this level before.”

Being open about these challenges, Lucy believes, is what kept her customers interested and is something she suggests other business owners don’t shy away from.

She added: “It’s ok to be honest on your social media and let your customers see that you’re human and also to keep your business in their minds by posting and doing stories however you can. Its important then more than ever to stay visible.”

Little City is a client of JFPR Consulting.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Elizabeth Lowe .