Newcastle mum is beating recession with baby shop

Nov 12 2009 by Chris Knox, The Journal

A YOUNG single mum is beating the recession with her baby shop and has recently brought in three new staff to help her keep up with demand.

Lucy Mann’s Nine Months store in Gosforth has continued to perform well over the last year, while other shops in the area have been forced to close.

The 29-year-old, who was recently nominated for young businessperson of the year at the Princes Trust Awards, gave birth to her twin boys Harrison and Oscar seven years ago and was compelled to set up the business years after struggling to find an adequate two seater pram at the time.

Initially focusing on multiple birth mums, she now sales a wide range of products, from car seats to cribs.

She has recently increased her part time staff from two to five, and hopes to employ full time staff in the future.

“Not a week goes by when another shop is announcing that it is closing, which is a real shame,” she said.

“However, we believe we can continue to grow the business as our customer base has increased as these boutique stores have fallen by the wayside.

“Also, you can buy a pushchair anywhere but it's so difficult to try and find a wide range of double buggies.

"Big stores don't realise the needs of new mothers and the problems you face. When I was out with the boys if was difficult to get into shops because of the doors and when a baby wants feeding they need feeding, that's why we have the special breastfeeding room.”