Kiddie gardeners - What's Hot - chains market gardening supplies to kids - Brief Article

DSN Retailing Today, Sept 9, 2002

Gardening accessories for kids are a hot new trend in mass retail seasonal programs. Target debuted its Garden Place Kids line two years ago, while Wal-Mart this past spring unveiled Kid Connection, a brand assigned to children's garden accessories, among other merchandise categories. Now Lowe's, Do it Best, Orchard Supply and Canadian Tire will add similar programs for 2003.

MidWest Quality Gloves, which makes private-label lines and its own Kid Kuarters brand, has seen demand grow for children's gloves, hats, tools, kneeling pads, totes and aprons.

"Kids' business is really booming," said Anne Whiteside, product manager at MidWest. "Since Sept. 11, families are staying at home and doing more things together."

Target in 2003 will double the space in its children's garden line, which this spring featured about 12 linear feet merchandised with beach toys across from the lawn and garden section. Wal-Mart first tested the category this past spring and is expanding as well, according to Whiteside.

MidWest's new Kid Kuarters program features items in bright spring colors appealing to children, with items priced from $3.99 to $11.99. Combination packs are also sold, as well as "Mom & Me" packs featuring gloves.