The Marbel Blog

Makedo Cup Critters Available Now!

2011-09-05T14:46:00.000+01:00

Contact Marbel on 01208 873123 | sales@marbel.co.uk | www.marbel.co.uk

How to makedo...

2011-06-09T15:11:00.004+01:00

The possibilities of what you can make with makedo are limited only by the materials you find and your imagination.

Play the video to take a two minute tour de makedo. Be amazed by the marvel of moving image. It’s making like you’ve never seen it before!

Wouldn’t you love to make play objects, kid’s costumes, furniture, decorations for the home and well, just about anything you can think of from the materials around you?

makedo makes it possible and impossibly fun.

makedo is a connector system that enables materials including cardboard, plastic and fabric to easily join together to form new objects or structures.

When you’re done playing, simply pull it apart to reuse over and over again.

Makedo is available to retailers in the UK from Marbel Ltd now!

Marbel appointed as exclusive UK and EIRE distributor for BRIO

2011-03-07T09:34:00.003Z

Marbel appointed as exclusive UK and EIRE distributor for BRIO.

February 2011

Marbel Ltd Appointed as BRIO Distributor for UK and EIRE.

Marbel are excited to announce that they have been appointed the exclusive distributor for the BRIO collection in the UK and EIRE.

The signature material in BRIO toys has always been, and always will be, wood. The new ‘classic’ range includes wooden toys in a new, modern design; these products will be handed down to generation after generation.

BRIOs wooden railways have always been natural classics that children never grow tired of. The timeless design of the rail tracks continues and the assortment of trains, buildings and accessories constantly changes and develops.

From 23rd February 2011 all BRIO enquires should be directed through Marbel customer services on 01208 873123.

More updates to follow.

Remember to keep in contact via Twitter and visit www.marbel.co.uk for the latest news.

For more information contact at jon@marbel.co.uk or on 01208 873 123.

Regards

The Marbel Team

Toy Fair 2011

2011-02-01T14:34:00.003Z

Wow, Toy Fair 2011 has come and gone in a flash! Marbel had a great time in London for the week and really enjoyed meeting new and existing customers on our stand.

We also had a great response to our new products from WWF Plush, Anamalz, Makedo and Hape. If you haven't had a chance to see our brand new products, make sure you find us at the Spring Fair, we are in Hall 5 Stand A26.

Have a great week!

Light's, Camera....Action!

2011-01-21T14:59:00.003Z

After months of preparation, we are a day or two away from the London Toy Fair and two weeks away from Spring Fair.

We have designed a new stand, art worked two new catalogues, printed press packs, launched five new ranges, built new displays and finally we have loaded it all onto the van.

We are really excited about seeing our wonderful customers at the shows and showing our new ranges and products off!

We wish everyone a safe journey to London Toy Fair, see you there!

Marbel add WWF Plush and anamalz to 2011 selection!

2010-12-16T12:14:00.004Z

Company appointed as exclusive UK and EIRE distributor for WWF and anamalz ranges.
Launching at Toy Fair 2011, over 120 products have been created for the WWF Plush Collection.

Marbel's deal is signed on the eve of the WWF Network's 50th anniversary. Led by WWF’s conservation and communication & marketing committees, planning is underway to mark this anniversary, through a global communication campaign around 50 of WWF’s big conservation wins. 

Marbel has also been appointed as exclusive UK and Eire distributor for the anamalz range.

Designed in Australia, anamalz is an animal range made from sustainable wood and textile products, which have the unique function to bend in different poses.

Ranging from Koalas to Crocodiles, over 40 anamalz make up the pocket money priced range. The full range will be launched at Toy Fair.

anamalz are made from wood that comes from plantation forests. They use child friendly based paint, azo-free dye and formaldehyde-free glue and minimal packaging.
Even the waste wood is used on a farm to grow mushrooms. anamalz horns and antlers use arboform, an eco alternative to plastic made from injection moulded wood.

All anamalz come with a unique code to enter the anamalz world online. Consumers can become part of the anamalz community where they can animate their anamalz, email their own animation to friends, download desktop wallpaper, avatars, birth certificates, share on social networks and play games.

anamalz has also established its own trust fund, committed to contributing funds to various wildlife and children’s organisations around the world. As the sales of anamalz grows, “anamalz saving animals” (asa) foundation will be able to contribute to more funds.

Visit the Marbel Stand (F109) at the Toyfair to view the WWF Plush Collection.

Use Less Plastic

2010-11-26T11:47:00.006Z

Hello everyone,

Sorry for the lack of posts recently. It is fast paced and hectic time here at Marbel with Christmas fast approaching (how fast has this year gone by)!

We are despatching orders left right and centre, finalising fantastic new products for launch at the trade fairs early next year (can't wait), designing a new catalogue, organising events and generally being really busy.

We did however find the time to watch this thought provoking video, the video has been produced by the Take Part organisation to highlight the perils of of modern society using to much plastic.

Grab your sandwich and enjoy some perfect lunch break viewing!

Toyfair 2011 Advert

2010-10-04T10:42:00.006+01:00

London Toyfair 2011

2010-09-29T13:21:00.007+01:00

With the hustle and bustle of the busy Christmas season definitely upon us, here in the marketing team we have to look forward to the even busier show season early in 2011! The 2011 London Toyfair is first up!, whilst looking back at previous events, we came across the Toyfair promotional Comic from the 2009 event. Which features the Plan Toys Rescue Set.

We think it was a fun and interesting way to promote new products, to visitors to the show, let's hope it is brought back for the 2011 event!

Plan Toys Stop Motion

2010-09-22T10:28:00.002+01:00

Fun little video featuring stop motion techniques and Plan Toys! Created for the Istituto Tolman.

Marbel Featured in October Toy News

2010-09-22T10:12:00.005+01:00

Marbel has once again featured a lovely piece of editorial in the October edition of the fantastic Toy News.

Thanks so much to the lovely people over at Intent Media for helping us out once again.

So grab a cuppa (and a quiet corner) and have a quiet read of the latest issue. You can also view the mag online here.

Plan Toys Receives Award for Outstanding Performance for Labour Relations and Welfare for 2010

2010-09-20T11:31:00.008+01:00

Plan Toys, the world’s leading manufacturer of educational toys recently received the “Award of Outstanding Performance for Labour Relations and Welfare for 2010” from Mr. Pakorn Amornchewin, Deputy Director General of Department of Welfare and Labour Protection, Ministry of Labour. Presided over by the Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, the event was held at the Miracle Grand Convention.

The award was in recognition of the company’s outstanding concern for human resources and in giving first priority to employee relations. The role of employee representatives in setting up the company’s employee relations system along with stability and a variety of welfare benefits including healthcare was also recognized. These benefits were provided according to and above the law, and supported employee development overall.

“The Award of Outstanding Performance for Labour Relations and Welfare” is organized by the Department of Welfare and Labour Protection and aims to make both employers and employees aware of the significance of establishing good mutual relations in conjunction with beneficial welfare practices.

Colour in Sacha

2010-09-08T10:12:00.004+01:00

Get creative with this colour in Sacha the Cat from L'atitude Enfant.
Click the image below to view a printable version and have fun creating a fun Sacha!

Award Winning Plan Toys Green Dollhouse

2010-09-03T13:31:00.006+01:00

Marbel are especially pleased to announce that the fantastic Plan Toys Green Dollhouse has won the Oppenheim Platinum award!

Click the image above to read the full review or visit www.marbel.co.uk for more information!

Marbel Featured in September Toy News

2010-09-02T10:53:00.012+01:00

Thanks to the guys at Toy News again, we have been featured in the September issue of the publication (on somewhat of a roll!).

You can read the lovely editorial for Marbel in the Children's Bike and Games and Puzzles section.

Remember to check the Marbel Press Tumblr for all Marbel related press news!

Marbel Confirm Stand at Toyfair 2011

2010-08-25T10:59:00.003+01:00

Marbel will be returning to Toyfair 2011 with a bigger and better stand! The show, held at Olympia between 25th - 27th Janaury 2011, is the definative trade show for the toy industry.
Marbel are super excited to be retuning to the show and we are looking forward to introducing the fantastic new Marbel ranges to the trade! Watch this space!

Fore more details regarding the show, visit www.toyfair.co.uk

Marbel Featured in August Toy News

2010-08-18T15:51:00.004+01:00

The August edition of the fantastic ToyNews is out now! Marbel products have been featured in three sections of the magazines (thanks ToyNews), so make sure you read your copy now. The magazine is also available to view in digital format.

For more information from the Marbel Press Dept. visit marbel.tumblr.com.

Marbel Launch Youtube Channel

2010-07-26T13:27:00.004+01:00

Marbel have launched a Youtube channel to enable customers to view a variety of videos from our toy brands. Video is a great way of featuring product videos, manufacturing info, fun stuff and more.

Click the image below to view the Marbel channel.

Maketime2Play Initiative

2010-07-22T10:01:00.000+01:00

The BTHA have launched a great campaign designed to promote the value of children's play time. Featuring a social media campaign via facebook, TV advertisement (video below) on major childrens channels, all cumulating in a Play Day on the 4th August 2010.

Brilliant Wooly Family Stop Motion Animation

2010-07-19T09:29:00.005+01:00

L'atitude Enfant have produced this amazing promotional stop motion animation, featuring the ever popular Wooly Family. New Wooly Family characters will be on sale at the start of next year, we can't wait!

Plan Loves Forests Project - Phoo Long Forest

2010-07-13T14:10:00.003+01:00

This annual activity is the collaboration between Plan Toys staff members, friends and family The objective is to let friends and colleagues express their appreciation for nature through reforestation.

The activities take place in Phoo Long Forest, Wat Pa Sukato Temple, Chaiyapoom province. This 2,000-acre area has virtually been destroyed through unregulated deforestation and wild fire and is in urgent need of restoration and preservation.

Participants are also invited to join a special offering Ceremony and listen to the Monk’s sermon at the Wat Pa Sukato Temple.

For the past five years, “Plan Loves Forests Project” has diligently planted over 43,000 trees covering more than 47 acres. The project is planned to continue for at least 10 years.

Marbel Featured As Part of Sainsbury's Active Kids Campaign

2010-06-24T15:32:00.005+01:00

Marbel are pleased to announce that four of our products are available through the Sainsbury's Active Kids campaign. The I'M Toy Debut Scooters and Paddie Riders are featured in the wooden toys ride on section http://www2.sainsburys.co.uk/ACTIVEKIDS/CatalogueItem/?ItemID=13848&C=&T=&V=&K=trike. We think it is great that wooden products are getting used by school children!

Visit http://www2.sainsburys.co.uk/activekids/ for more information.

Product Feature: Plan Toys Beehive

2010-06-24T13:20:00.005+01:00

The PlanToys^® Beehive is one of the exciting new products introduced in 2010. The design is based around a modular system concept that enables it to be played with using various patterns; horizontal, vertical, basic level and advanced. The product designer who created it understands that children love to explore and learn about animals - especially insects. The real life bee was the inspiration behind his creation because these busy creatures have such a fascinating lifestyle.

Bees are very hard working (“busy as a bee”) and always seem to have endless energy. They buzz from flower to flower collecting pollen and nectar which they then take back to their home – the Beehive. The hive is an amazing structure of precision design where bees live and raise their young and where they protect the Queen Bee.

PlanToys^® Beehives improves children’s fine motor skills as it helps develop coordination and concentration. It also gives parents a great opportunity to create stories about the life of the bee - insects they will come to appreciate for the rest of their life.

Beehives has been designed using our EcoDesign Concept which helps protect the environment. We have minimized the use of materials and Beehives design uses a short manufacturing process to save energy.

And remember..............

Bee populations are in severe decline all over the world, but beekeepers and scientists are unsure what is causing these losses.

This matters because bees pollinate a third of the food we eat, so without them there would be no apples, onions or even tea!

http://www.co-operative.coop/ethicsinaction/takeaction/planbee/whatshappeningtobees/

Marbel Featured in June issue of Nursery Today

2010-06-15T17:05:00.004+01:00

Marbel have a nice write up in the pre school section in the June issue of Nursery Today!

K's Kids Learning Triangle

2010-06-10T10:49:00.005+01:00

Ever K's Kids toy is designed for the healthy development of a child. To help parents understand the benefits of our toy to your child, K's Kids have developed a "Learning Triangle" which summarises helpful hints that benefit your child's PHYSICAL, MENTAL and SOCIAL developments.

The Learning Triangle provides parents a guideline to the toy, emphasising the benefits that the toy offers children . The 9 icons, which represent more detailed developmental areas, will explain to parents the details of each of the developmental benefits.

Elephant Parade

2010-06-02T13:48:00.003+01:00

http://elephantparadelondon.org/index.html

The Elephant Parade is an event where 260 life-size baby elephants have been created to raise awareness and funds for Elephant Family, a small but hugely ambitious charity working to save Asian elephants from extinction in the wild.

These life-size baby elephants are dotted throughout London... many in obvious places but also many in more obscure spots that serve as wonderful surprises.

All Images Uploaded to Website

2010-06-02T13:28:00.002+01:00

All the new products images have been uploaded to marbel.co.uk. Click below to take a look!

Extra Products Reduced in Price!

2010-05-28T15:49:00.005+01:00

As part of our continued summer clean up, we have reduced even more products in price! Click here to view the offers or visit www.marbel.co.uk!!!

Introducing..........Dress Your Doll

2010-05-18T15:07:00.004+01:00

We thought we would give you a little more information regarding the Dress Your Doll range recently launched in the UK by Marbel Ltd.............

Designed and produced in Belgium, the idea was created by mother and daughter team, Lena De Swert and Els Van Houtven. The concept is simple; take a piece of fabric, fold it in half, cut a hole in the middle, sew it together down either side and there you have it, a little top for your doll!

This is the basic principle Dress Your Doll started with, a unique concept whereby children can make clothes for their (fashion) dolls themselves in an easy and fun way. The range now consists of over 50 designs that can be mixed and matched together to create an endless array of clothing for dolls. The pre-printed patterns and prints on a soft, stretchy fabric that doesn’t fray only need to be cut out and sewn together along the dotted lines. Each dress retails for £8.99 and is great for endless hours of creative fun!

Toymaster Show

2010-05-18T14:34:00.003+01:00

Just a quick reminder that Marbel are exhibiting Today, Tomorrow and Thursday at the Toymaster Show. The show is being held at the Harrogate International Centre (http://www.harrogateinternationalcentre.co.uk/) both Peter and Simon from Marbel are up there with loads of new products and special show deals! So if your visiting the show, please pop along to the Marbel stand and say hello!

Marbel May Special Offers

2010-05-17T13:14:00.003+01:00

We are having a little bit of a clean out here at Marbel. Over 100 products will be reduced to clear over the next few days, they are being added to the 'Special Offer' section of the Marbel website. Visit www.marbel.co.uk to view the lines currently available!

New Marbel Catalogue Posted

2010-05-05T11:41:00.003+01:00

As I am typing this, the new 2010 Marbel catalogue is winging its way to you. The new catalogue features over 700 quality, innovative and traditional children's products. 70 brand new products and two new brands are also included!

If you do not recieve your catalogue over the next few days, please make sure you contact Jon (jon@marbel.co.uk) to get one sent out to you.

Plan Toys Wins National Sufficiency Economy Award

2010-04-28T11:19:00.004+01:00

Marbel are pleased to announce that Plan Toys (the world’s leading manufacturer of educational toys), has won second place at Thailand’s “Sufficiency Economy Contest”. The competition is conducted by the highly respected branch of the Royal Development Project Board overseen by the department of National Economics and Social Development.

Members of the board include government officials, academics, private and public sectors, plus university professors, representatives from the office of the Civil Service Commission and the Royal Thai government. The Thai Chamber of Commerce, public banks and special advisors to the royal development production board were also involved. Over 500 companies entered the contest, Plan Toys entered under the "Medium Enterprise" category. The company out-ran competitors from many top national and international corporations with multi-billion turnovers.

Plan Toys state:

"Following the philosophy of sustainability and sufficiency development of his Majesty the King, We are determined to become a corporation of value, efficiency, and environmental friendliness. We aim to develop our organization with full social and environmental responsibility and our goal is to be successful as we create value for our business partners and customers. Quality products, service, and social and environmental awareness form the cornerstone of our philosophy and we continue to pursue this plan as we grow. We believe that following a path of social and environmental responsibility will confirm to the public that we are a leader in National Sufficiency."

New NYBY Garden Tool Display Now in Stock

2010-04-26T13:47:00.004+01:00

The new NYBY Garden Tool Display has now arrived from Sweden. The new display includes a front 'box' which displays the small hand tools perfectly. The garden tools are perfect for encouraging children to get outside in the sunshine!

Marbel Catalogue Goes to Press!

2010-04-22T14:08:00.006+01:00

We had a great time visiting our friends at the printers to watch the new catalogue come of the press!

Marbel Catalogue Sent to Press! (nail biting time)

2010-04-21T11:13:00.003+01:00

The new Marbel catalogue has been sent to the printers today!

Still on track for early May release!

Marbel Office in the Sun

2010-04-15T11:21:00.002+01:00

Our sun dance must have worked! Sun is back out today, lets hope it lasts over the weekend!

Marbel named as agent for Folkmanis

2010-04-08T14:15:00.002+01:00

We are pleased to appoint Marbel Ltd as the UK agent for the exciting range of Folkmanis products. The range includes the Dynabox, Kids-CAR and of course the fantastic Folkmanis Puppets.

Folkmanis believe imagination is the key to a healthy childhood, encouraging play and discovery to develop the skills necessary in life. The company has been making the most innovative and engaging specialty puppets in the world since 1976, delighting imaginations and winning numerous industry, child development, and kid-tested awards. The Folkmanis range features over 250 high quality animal, character, hand and finger puppets. For more information regarding the complete range visit www.folkmanis.de.

The Marbel sales team can be contacted on 01208 873123 or online via:

sales@marbel.co.uk / www.marbel.co.uk / www.twitter.com/marbeltoys

The team will be more than happy to talk to you regarding the entire Folkmanis range, purchase orders and help with any other queries you may have.

AIS Trade Show - Playroom at the Park

2010-04-07T16:35:00.003+01:00

Marbel will be exhibiting at the AIS Show - Playroom at the Park. New products, special offers and or course our friendly sales team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Visit http://www.cranmorepark.co.uk/event_details.php?id=88 for more information.

See you at the show!

New Brands Coming Soon!

2010-03-23T17:34:00.002Z

Marbel will be launching two new brands in the upcoming May catalogue (along with the 50 new products from existing brands)! Exciting times!

Sneak Peek at New Catalogue

2010-03-18T13:50:00.003Z

Here in the Marbel Marketing Dept we are hard at work on the new catalogue (due for launch early May). We thought we would give you a sneaky peak at the upcoming catalogue design (you might also spot a few new products!)

New Plan Toys Products Coming Soon

2010-03-15T16:53:00.003Z

Here at Marbel, we are hard at work designing the new Marbel catalogue, which will be launched in early May. Over 50 new products will be introduced from: Plan Toys, I'M Toys, Eitech, K's Kids and even some new brands! Keep checking this blog for updates!

Marbel March Newsletter

2010-03-04T16:02:00.002Z

The latest Marbel newsletter has been e-mailed off to everyone! The newsletter includes news, views and special offers! If you haven't received your copy e-mail jon@marbel.co.uk to get on the list!

New Products Added to Website!

2010-02-24T14:55:00.004Z

Over 100 new items have been added to the Marbel website. These were all launched during the shows at the start of the year and are now available to view and purchase online! A high resolution picture is also available for each new product!

Several new brands have been introduced, including:

New products have been added to the ever popular Plan Toys, I'M Toys, K's Kids and L'atitude Enfant!

C02

2010-02-19T16:54:00.001Z

Marbel New Products Catalogue Out Now

2010-02-02T11:30:00.002Z

The new Marbel catalogue with the products we will be launching at Spring Fair has been mailed. If you have not received your copy, contact the Marbel team at sales@marbel.co.uk.

Visit Marbel at Spring Fair N.E.C

2010-01-24T13:22:00.002Z

Plan Toys Dancing Alligator Wallpaper

2009-09-28T10:11:00.002+01:00

Seeing Double!

Click the image to load in a new window.

then right click and set as desktop background.

Have Fun!

Plan Toys Video

2009-09-25T14:49:00.000+01:00

Learn about the Plan Toys company.

Plan Toys Featured in new RNIB Catalogue

2009-09-15T10:38:00.001+01:00

The new 2009/10 Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) catalogue 'Playtime' has just been published and features two Plan Toys products. The toys in the catalogue are selected by a panel of parents, early year’s practitioners and teachers, because of their suitability for blind and partially sighted children.

It's Great catalogue filled with lots of fantastic ideas!

BPA Baby and Child Fair 2009

2009-09-07T16:09:00.003+01:00

It's only a few weeks until the Baby and Child Fair 2009 at London's Excel.

Once again Marbel will be exhbiting a wide range of nursery and gift toys (including the new Plan Toys, K's Kids and L'atitude ranges).

Make sure you visit http://www.babyandchildfair.co.uk/home.php to register for the event and receive information on Marbel's special show offers!

See you at the show!

BPA Baby and Child 2009 - London Excel - 11th-13th October

New Lines X-Mas 09

2009-09-03T15:56:00.002+01:00

All new lines for X-mas 09 have been mailed out to customers, if you haven't recieved yours contact the Marbel Customer Services Team on 01208 873123 or info@marbel.co.uk to request the new lines promotional pack.

There are great new lines from Plan Toys, L'atitude Enfant and K's Kids!

New L'atitude and K's Kids Products Releases

2009-08-28T15:49:00.004+01:00

The new L'atitude and K's Kids very special offers have been mailed to all our customers today.

All products have limited availability, so get back to us with the enclosed form as soon as possible.

L'atitude and K's Kids New Products

2009-08-06T16:10:00.006+01:00

We have been working hard on the new L'atitude and K's Kids products that will be launched for Christmas Pre-Order. I have nearly finished the design of the pages we will mail to you in the last week of August. Hard work, but its worth it! New products look fantastic!

Here's a little sneeky peak of a couple of the pages:

Can't wait.

Plan Toys Wallpaper

2009-07-27T10:44:00.003+01:00

It's a lovely sunny day here in Cornwall, so we thought we would give you a nice Plan Toys Walking Elephant wallpaper to decorate your PC/Mac.

Click to enlarge the image and then right click and choose 'set as background'

More wallpapers will be appearing soon!

Plan Toys 2009 Video

2009-07-22T11:33:00.003+01:00

Learn about the Plan Toys company.

New Plan Toys 2009!

2009-07-22T10:47:00.019+01:00

The Plan Toys range has just expanded!

There are new lines within; PlanPreschool, PlanActivity, PlanCity and PlanDollhouse.

Over 30 new products have been added for pre-order for Christmas delivery! *Hurry, limited availability

Contact Marbel on: t: 01208 873 123 / e: info@marbel.co.uk / w: www.marbel.co.uk / your Sales Representative for more info!

Here's just a little selection, to whet your appetite.

We can't wait!

Marbel Wins Best Growth Strategy - Cornwall Business Awards 2009

2009-07-21T13:21:00.004+01:00

Marbel in 2009

2009-06-03T13:45:00.001+01:00

About Us

Cornwall‐based toy distributor Marbel specialises in classic toys made from traditional materials. The firm was set up six years ago by husband and wife team Christoph and Rebecca Bettin, who started the company after spending several years working in Munich, Germany, for American multinational General Electric. During their time overseas the couple noticed that traditional toys like wooden trains, metal construction kits and baby toys were still popular with parents and children, and saw an opportunity to bring the idea back to the UK.
Christoph said:

“In an increasingly electronic world our toys offer something to parents that is more traditional and allows greater interaction for young children. Our toys are visually stimulating and tactile, great fun and are of excellent quality. Above all we ensure our products are able to spark children’s imagination and provide excellent playtime value.”

The company has been growing ever since its inception and two years ago announced record growth of over 300%. To manage the increased demand, the company moved into a new and larger warehouse. The updated warehouse has greatly improved order picking and packing efficiency, and not only is Marbel now dealing with an increased number of orders, they are reaching customers with decreased delivery times. 2009 has kicked off in a great way as well, The Toyfair was a huge success for Marbel, the new catalogue, new products and new stand proved to be hugely popular and it was great to see so many new and existing customers. The Spring Fair saw Marbel exhibit in its award winning wooden Wendy house and again Marbel experienced a great event, with increased footfall on the stand and a great reaction to new products. A new e‐mail newsletter service is on track to be launched in June, the service will keep customers up to date on new products, special offers and promotions. The Marbel brand continues to grow from strength to strength and 2009 looks set to be another great year for the toy distributor.

Marbel currently distributes sustainable wooden toys from the following leading brands; Plan Toys, I’M Toy, K’s Kids, Eitech, New Classic Toys and L’atitude Enfant.

Plan Toys

Thailand based Plan Creations Co., Ltd. is the world’s first and largest manufacturer of recycle wooden toys. PlanToys® comes from rubberwood trees that are too old to produce latex. Prior to PlanToys® these trees were cut, burned and discarded. Through PlanToys® these trees are re-used to create innovative wooden toys loved by children around the world. Child specialists regard PlanToys® as effective educational tools and the products have won numerous awards from UK, Europe, U.S.A., Japan and Thailand. Customers can be assured that all PlanToys® in your hands are Green Toys from a Green Company.

I’M Toy

Family run I’M Toy, established over twenty years ago in 1987, have developed a strong range of wooden and fabric toys. I’M Toy have used sustainable rubber-wood, natural paints and finishes since setting up production in the late eighties. As well as following this strong environmental policy, I’M Toy also have strict safety regulations in place. The toys will also aid the child’s mental, physical and social development. Throughout the years, I’M Toy have developed a strong reputation worldwide and have pushed the boundaries of creativity, environmental toy manufacture, production processes and safety standard within the toy industry.

K’s Kids

K’s Kids educational toys are rich in interesting activities, which can help stimulate the five core senses of children aged from 0mths+ up to 38mths+. From the small shaking rattle to the big activity play mat, there are different sensory activities for children to explore, learn and to play with. Many of the K’s Kids educational products have won international toys awards, because of the original concept and educational values.
Every K's Kids toy is designed to encourage the healthy development of children. K’s Kids are committed to making the best toys for the young hands and minds, using quality and safe materials to produce toys that are adorable, educational and fun to play with.

Eitech

Eitech was founded in the city of Pfaffschwende, Germany in 1955 as a metal parts manufacturer. The company focused on the development and production of a variety of steel products based on the company’s powerful `Eitech` tool and molding division. Today, Eitech designs, engineers and manufactures the highest quality metal construction kits in the world today. A wide range of building sets are available, starting with the beginner line consisting of plastic parts designed for young builders 4 years and up, to Eitech’s renowned advanced metal sets for older, more experienced builders.

New Classic Toys

Established in 1991 in the small town of Medemblik, Netherlands, New Classic Toys has grown from a small local supplier of musical instruments and gifts into a worldwide distributor of high quality Musical Instruments and Toys. Run by a small and friendly team of dedicated family and staff, the underlying belief that New Classic Toys instills into its product range is that the traditional play values, that have been passed down from generation to generation, continue to thrive in the modern world. Believing strongly in this value has shaped and molded the range that Marbel offers you today, with each and every product having strong educational ethics. The New Classic Toys brand also stands for safety; all products meet the latest En71 European standards and have been selected because of their outstanding safe design and production.

L’atitude Enfant

Brand new to Marbel for 2009 is the French designed selection of L’Atitude Enfant soft toys. L’Atitude Enfant stands for quality, safety and educational play value, so fits in perfectly with the current Marbel range. The initial two ranges Marbel will stock will be the famous Grannimals and the preschool Nature Collection. Nine hand knitted woolly Grannimals make up the Wooly Family of soft toys. Suitable from birth, each Grannimal has it’s own characteristics and personal traits. Arriving packaged in a beautiful shoe box, children can select their favorite companions to share the adventure of growing up! Seven soft preschool toys form the Nature Collection, each of the toys have been specifically developed to enhance children’s educational development. Ranging from the cute Stacking Cat to the musical Sound Cube, each product has been produced to the highest safety standards using the latest production methods.

Marbel Wins Cornwall Business Award!

2009-06-02T10:27:00.005+01:00

Lostwithiel based Toy Distributor, Marbel Ltd, are pleased to announce they have been rewarded for all their hard work, by scooping the ‘Best Growth Strategy’ prize at this years Cornwall Business Awards. Tim Smit, CEO of the Eden Project, announced the award, commenting this was the only unanimaous decision made by the juding panel and praised Marbel for their fearless approach in difficult times.

Marbel’s directors, Christoph and Rebecca Bettin , were delighted to receive the award and reiterated it is a terrific achievement for an up and coming Cornish company. As a result of the growth and success of the business, Marbel has been able to put all staff members through Cornish training schemes such as the the Smart Woman and Unlocking Cornish Potential iniatives as well as numerous apprentiships.

The directors stressed their gratefullness to all employees for their hardwork and determination in helping Marbel to achieve it’s vision of being a key player in the UK Toy industry.

For further press information, please contact Phil Nelson on 01208 873123.

Marbel Nominated for Two Prestigious Awards

2009-04-17T10:56:00.002+01:00

Marbel Nominated for Two Prestigious Awards

Lostwithiel based Toy Distributor; Marbel, are pleased to announce they have been nominated for two prestigious Cornish Business Awards. The company has been shortlisted for the:

- Growth Strategy of the Year Award

Christoph Bettin the Managing Director has himself been nomianted for the:

- Entrepeneuer of the Year Award

Christoph Bettin is delighted with both nominations and says:

“After six years of developing and growing a Cornish company we are delighted to be nominated for both awards. The nominations are testament to the clear vision Marbel has of what we want to achieve and how we are going to achieve these goals. As a result of the growth and success of the business, we have been able to put all staff members through Cornish training schemes such as the the Smart Woman and Unlocking Cornish Potential iniatives and we are grateful to our employees in helping us to achieve our vision of being a key player in the UK Toy industry. “

Vist Marbel in 2009

2008-12-01T12:57:00.003Z

Visit Marbel in 2009

Marbel are launching over 100 exciting new products in early 2009. Be the first to see these products at the Toyfair, Spring Fair or Nursery Fair!

Toyfair
28th - 31st January 2009
London Excela
Stand SJ20

Spring Fair
1st - 5th February 2009
Birmingham NEC
Hall 5 Stand A26

Nursery Fair
22nd - 24th March 2009
Harrogate Exhibition Centre
Kings Suite

Toymaster Show
19th - 21st May 2009
Harrogate Majestic Hotel
Stand TBA

BPA Nursery Show
11th - 13th October 2009
London Excel
Stand TBA

Please contact your Sales Representative for more information.

We look forward to seeing you at the shows!

Marbel Included in Renowned Christmas Wishlist

2008-07-21T14:13:00.018+01:00

It is with great delight that Marbel can announce the Plan Toys Pull Along Snail, has made iconic retailers 'Selfridge's Top Ten Must Have Christmas Products ' list. This is a great achievement for Marbel, featuring amongst toy giants Mattel, Hasbro and Steiff in the wishlist. The inclusion of the product demonstrates the growing popularity of the eco-friendly Plan Toys distributed by Marbel.After four years without a toy department, the London store will re-launch the department in August.

The list in full:
Mattel’s Barbie Prima Ballerina
Steiff’s Bobby Bear Russet
Mattel’s Dora the Explorer Prance and Fly Pegasus
Hasbro’s Hulk Smash Hands
Hasbro’s Indiana Jones Roleplay Whip
Hasbro’s In the Night Garden Upsy Daisy in Bed
Schylling’s Retro Bake Set
Drumond Park’s Rubik’s Cube
Plan Toys’ Pull Along Wooden Snail
Wow Wee’s Wrex the Dawg

Source: http://www.toynewsmag.com/news/30122/SELFRIDGES-New-toy-shop-announced
Digg This!

Plan Toys Green Mind

2008-07-18T16:45:00.006+01:00

Green Mind

PlanToys® reaches beyond the factory floor to build environmental and social awareness.

Children Museum
It is a centre for knowledge of toys as well as an institution that provides information on the development of children with nature, society, and the environment. Lighting and power system is generated by solar power.

Sarnsaeng-Arun Foundation
PlanToys® established Sarnsaeng-Arun as a non-profit organization with a mission to promote arts, culture, nature and environment for children and all related group, interested party, participant or interested person.

PlanToys® Conserves the Forest
PlanToys® mission is to restore balance in the natural world, help reduce global warming, and instill a love for nature and the environment in people’s minds through a reforestation program.

Toys for disabled children project
PlanToys® aim is to create toys that enhance the skills of disabled children and to provide them with mental and physical development opportunities.

Healing and Recovery Project
PlanToys® helps uplift the spirits of people affected by natural disasters, such as; Typhoon, Land Slide and Tsunami.

New Plan Toys Parking Garage!

2008-07-15T17:19:00.010+01:00

The brand new Plan Toys Parking Garage (PLN-60830) is available to order from Marbel. The new version of the Parking Garage features a couple of changes; The lift now sits in the central pillar and the central pillar has had a small paint job! The new Parking Garage continues to be produced from sustainable rubberwood (as with all Plan Toys) and features three floors of parking space, a heliport, gas station, parking attendant, car wash and car! Visit www.marbel.co.uk for more details!

Digg This!

Plan Toys: Green Toys, Green Company

2008-07-14T17:11:00.008+01:00

Plan Toys: Green Toys, Green Company

Thailand based Plan Creations Co, Ltd. is the world’s first and largest manufacturer of recycle wooden toys. PlanToys® comes from rubberwood trees that are too old to produce latex. Prior to PlanToys® these trees were cut, burned and discarded. Through PlanToys® these trees are re-used to create innovative wooden toys loved by children around the world. Child specialists regard PlanToys® as effective educational tools and the products have won numerous awards from UK, Europe, U.S.A., Japan and Thailand.

PlanToys® Mission

Education
PlanToys® create toys according to the aim "Innovative toys for the development of every child”. PlanToys® incorporates thoughtful design and age-appropriate challenges to empower children, encourages social interaction, promotes natural learning, creative play and rewards discovery.

Quality and Safety
PlanToys® uncompromising quality starts with an experienced design team and continues right through to manufacturing, packaging and shipping, we are meticulously dedicated to a process that ensures children safety.

Natural Materials
PlanToys® is made from recycle rubberwood that is not chemically treated. PlanToys® enables children to play, learn and become closer to nature.

Innovative
PlanToys® simplicity in design is combined with innovative use of materials and real-valued function encouraging more creative play in a good learning environment.

Social & Environment

PlanToys® recognizes the importance of promoting good quality of life, balanced with concern for environment. PlanToys® is committed to minimizing our impact on nature.

Marbel Featured on Nursery Today Homepage

2008-07-11T16:54:00.009+01:00

Article from www.nurserytoday.co.uk 11th July 2008:

MARBEL TO DISTRIBUTE K’S KIDS NURSERY RANGE Created on - 09 July 2008

Marbel are pleased to announce that from August, they will be distributing the fantastic K’s Kids nursery range. K’s Kids toys are designed especially for babies and toddler’s young hands and minds. The safest materials are used to create toys that are adorable, educational and fun to play with. Originality of product concepts is also an area K’s Kids excels in, with a very strong focus on product development and with a team that includes psychologists, child development experts and also parents themselves. Concepts originated by K's Kids have been highly recognized by the toy industry, and have won a number of world renowned toys awards. Marbel will be launching into the nursery market at Octobers BPA Baby & Child (stand F28). Exhibiting there for the first time, the Marbel nursery range will be on display where you can get a hands on experience. In the meantime, visit www.marbel.co.uk for all the latest news, to view the full product range or to request a catalogue, alternatively call customer services on 01208 873123.

Plan Toys Recieve Prestigious ‘Bureau of Empowerment’ Award

2008-07-09T19:42:00.006+01:00

Plan Toys has been recently awarded as an outstanding organisation, for developing the quality of life for persons with disabilities. The award from the ‘Bureau of Empowerment’ recognises the company as a key player in providing social welfare, improving potentials and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, so that employees can achieve a better quality of life and receive equal opportunities within society and employment

K's Kids is landing at Marbel soon!

2008-07-04T14:46:00.001+01:00

Marbel Welcomes New Staff

2008-06-27T10:27:00.000+01:00

Welcoming New Staff

As Marbel goes from strength to strength it was high time to introduce new members of staff here at Marbel. It is was therefore great news that we have welcomed Jayna and Megan into head office life down here in Cornwall.

But we didn't stop there! We have also introduced Simon Burton and Peter Ward into the sales team. So to refresh everyones memories (including ours) here is a run down on the sales team and the locations they cover:

Mike Gascoigne- South West England
Luke de la Mare- London and South East England
Simon Burton- West Midlands and Northern England
Peter Ward- East Midlands and East Anglia
Head Office- All Other Areas

BPA Baby and Child Show

2008-06-16T16:05:00.000+01:00

Marbel are pleased to announce that they will be exhibiting at the BPA Baby and Child Show at the NEC between the 12-14th October. We will be launching exciting new products at the show, so be sure not to miss out! Visit www.babyandchildfair.co.uk for more information on visiting!

Marbel- Nursery Today Feature

2008-06-16T15:24:00.000+01:00

Nursery Today

Marbel Feature

Cornwall-based toy distributor Marbel specialises in classic toys made from traditional materials. The firm was set up five years ago by husband and wife team Christoph and Rebecca Bettin, who started the company after spending several years working in Munich, Germany, for American multinational General Electric. During their time overseas the couple noticed that traditional toys like wooden trains, metal construction kits and baby toys were still popular with parents and children, and saw an opportunity to bring the idea back to the UK.

Christoph said: “In an increasingly electronic world our toys offer something to parents that is more traditional and allows greater interaction for young children. Our toys are visually stimulating and tactile, great fun and are of excellent quality. Above all we ensure our products are able to spark children’s imagination and provide excellent playtime value.”

The company has been growing ever since its inception and last year announced record growth of over 300%. To manage the increased demand, the company moved into a new and larger warehouse. The updated warehouse has greatly improved order picking and packing efficiency, and not only are Marbel now dealing with increased orders, they are reaching customers with decreased delivery times. 2008 has kicked off in a great way as well, with the help of Marbel’s local friends at the Eden Project, the first week of January saw a photographer chasing several kids around the Eden Project trying to get exciting lifestyle shots for the new catalogue. By the end of January the catalogue was ready and launched along with over 100 new products at the British Toyfair. The Toyfair was a huge success for Marbel, the new catalogue, new products and new stand proved to be hugely popular and it was great to see so many new and existing customers. The Spring Fair saw Marbel exhibit in its award winning wooden Wendy house and again Marbel experienced a great event, with increased footfall on the stand and a great reaction to new products. March saw an overhaul of the Marbel.co.uk website, with improved onsite ordering and high definition pictures added. A new e-mail newsletter service is on track to be launched in June, the service will keep customers up to date on new products, special offers and promotions. The Marbel brand continues to grow from strength to strength and 2008 looks set to be another great year for the toy distributor.

The great news is that Marbel have decided to venture into the increasingly prosperous Nursery market. Using products already in the Marbel range and by developing new products and distributing new brands, Marbel will have a complete Nursery product range.

Marbel currently distributes sustainable wooden toys from leading brands Plan Toys and I’M Toys amongst others. All Plan and I’M Toys begin with clean, natural rubberwood recycled from rubberwood tress, no longer able to produce latex. Three years before the wood is used for toy manufacturer, no fertiliser or pesticide is added to ensure the wood stays chemical free. The wood is then stabilized using a natural kiln drying process. Once produced, the toys are finished with non-toxic water based dyes and packaged in recycled materials. All the toys are produced with the aim of developing children’s, physical, social and mental skills at an early age. Along with stringent manufacturing standards, quality management and social accountability management, both companies reach beyond the manufacturing to build environmental and social awareness. Between them, they fund a children’s museum, a foundation which promotes arts, culture, nature and the environment and support those affected by natural disasters. Plan Toys have recently initiated a project to develop special toys for visually impaired, cerebral palsy and autistic children. Marbel currently distributes over 300 products manufactured by Plan and I’M Toys and retailers and consumers a like can be sure they are purchasing toys of the highest standard and with an environmentally friendly background. To support retailers, brand new POS and Promotional material is currently being developed and will be launched towards the end of the summer.

Along with Plan and I’M Toys, Marbel also distributes the Hess brand of baby toys. Produced in Germany to the highest standard the Hess range includes rattles, pacifier chains, pram chains and baby gyms. Made from natural wood and finished with brightly coloured toxic free paint, Hess products are designed to entertain little ones for hours.

Marbel are also pleased to announce that from August, they will be distributing the fantastic K’ Kids nursery range. K’s Kids toys are designed especially for babies and toddler’s young hands and minds. The safest materials are used to create toys that are adorable, educational and fun to play with. Originality of product concepts is also an area K’s Kids excels in, with a very strong focus on product development and with a team that includes psychologists, child development experts and also parents themselves. Concepts originated by K's Kids have been highly recognized by the toy industry, and have won a number of world renowned toys awards.

Marbel will be launching into the nursery market at Octobers Parents and Baby Show. Exhibiting there for the first time, the Marbel nursery range will be on display where you can get a hands on experience. In the meantime, visit www.marbel.co.uk for all the latest news, to view the full product range or to request a catalogue, alternatively call customer services on 01208 873123.