Toy firm keeps it in the family

Feb 27 2010 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A FAMILY toy business has created three jobs and moved into bigger premises to cope with demand.

Toys Direct moved into the Teesside Industrial Estate in Thornaby to create more space to store toys and games, including the Thomas the Tank Engine and Playmobil ranges, which it ships to customers in the UK and abroad.

The internet and mail order firm was set up in 1995 by Brian Parrish and wife Linda, whose sister is Tyne Tees TV presenter Pam Royle, from their home in Nunthorpe. It went online in 1999, which fuelled the growth of the business, and moved into premises in Stokesley.

Mr Parrish said: “When we moved into our former premises at Stokesley, we thought we were set up for life, but as the business grew, we quickly ran out of space and made the decision to look for a bigger unit.

“We looked around and this was the best option for size and location. We’re settled in now and to meet the demand of additional customers.”

The expansion has created two full-time jobs and a part-time accountancy post. But the business still retains its family-run ethos at its heart with the couple’s children James and Vanessa, and their 19-year-old granddaughter Kristina, all working for Toys Direct. The move received support from Tees Valley Regeneration and Stockton Council.

Michael Kendall, Tees Valley Regeneration inward investment manager, said: “It’s encouraging to see a family-run company, with its roots in the Tees Valley, enjoying continued growth, during such a tough year.”