The UK’s trade association for the baby products industry has announced the resignation of its managing director, Robert Anslow, and a complete management restructure.

Marc Hardenberg, chair of the Baby Products Association explains: “Robert has been an important figurehead for the Association for many years and has contributed hugely not just to the organisation, but to the nursery industry as a whole. We are hugely grateful for his valuable input and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Going forward, the Association’s executive committee will take on more of a hands-on role creating a management team to assist in the day-to-day running of the association. Julie Milne, who has worked with the Association for many years, has been appointed to a new position of General Manager and will continue to be the first port of call for members and industry partners alike.

The Association’s new management team consists of Julie Milne (General Manager), Marc Hardenberg (Chair), Phil Howe (Vice Chair), Rachelle Harel (Treasurer) and Christine Scippo (Membership & Marketing).

The Baby Products Association’s current executive committee consists of: Marc Hardenberg (Majuma); Phil Howe (Peg Perego); Rachelle Harel (RH Sales & Marketing); Luke Burns (Columbus Trading); Andy Crane (BabyStyle); Sonia Kelly (Mamas & Papas); Richard Bamforth (UPPAbaby UK); Grainne Kelly (Bubblebum); Mike Chapman (East Coast); Helen Robinson (Hauck Group), and  Selina Russell (Cheeky Rascals).

Marc continues: “The restructuring of the Baby Products Association offers the opportunity to revitalise its position in the industry. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of children and will continue to help shape the future of safety standards and lobby for change in support of the industry. However, we also hope to diversify and grow our membership by opening up new avenues to industry partners such as service providers, retailers and agencies.

“In coming months we will be formulating new opportunities and welcome input from potential industry partners who would like to get involved.”

The Baby Products Association looks forward to welcoming new members, which supports its important work for the industry.

Principal benefits of membership include the opportunity to influence the content of British, European and International standards through the Association’s representation on BSI, CEN and ISO committees; participation in the Association’s experts committees and working groups and benefit from discussions and recommendations; be associated with publicity initiatives including joint research projects and lobbying groups; preferential rates for testing, BSI and CEN Standards; access to technical support and product safety information; a free business support helpline, plus discounts and preferential rates for various industry services.

For more information visit www.b-p-a.org where you can download the 2024 membership pack.