After the closure of Base Childrenswear, Marc and Daniel Granditer embark on a new journey with Casa Childrenswear.
- Base Childrenswear, a significant player in the UK, ceased operations after Frasers Group’s acquisition led to administrative changes.
- Marc and Daniel Granditer seized the opportunity to reinvent, establishing Casa Childrenswear at Bluewater.
- Casa Childrenswear focuses on a full range experience, from premium brands to gifting options.
- The Granditers plan for expansion, emphasising the potential within the evolving kidswear market.
Base Childrenswear, once a major name in UK children’s fashion retail, was acquired by Frasers Group from JD Sports in a £47.5m deal. This acquisition led to the closure and subsequent rebranding of several stores. Though its Westfield locations were rebranded, the label’s Bluewater outlet remained operational under a new guise.
In the aftermath of Base Childrenswear’s closure, Marc and Daniel Granditer saw a chance to start anew. In July, they launched Casa Childrenswear at the Bluewater shopping centre, with a particular focus on maintaining independence and agility in a fluctuating market. In addition to a physical store, they opened an ecommerce website in October to increase their market reach.
At Casa Childrenswear, the Granditers aim to provide a comprehensive retail experience. They have curated a selection of both affordable and luxury brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, and Spanish specialists like Mayoral. Furthermore, their range includes popular gifting and toy brands such as Jellycat, establishing them as a holistic children’s store.
The Bluewater store was chosen due to its prime location and positive history with Landsec, their landlord. The store has received positive customer feedback, indicating a strong need for physical retail experiences. Events have been successful, fostering a sense of community and connection with the customer base.
Looking forward, the Granditers intend to grow Casa Childrenswear across new locations, focusing primarily on physical stores. Although ecommerce is part of the plan, it will not overshadow their in-store experiences. Their strategy relies on cultivating strong relationships with brands and adapting to the market needs.
The kidswear market presents fresh opportunities amidst the decline of long-standing children’s retailers. The Granditers believe in the power of independent retailers to drive the market forward, suggesting that these smaller players are key to revitalising the sector.
Marc and Daniel Granditer are poised to revitalise the kidswear retail landscape with their new venture, Casa Childrenswear.
