January 22, 2004

By: Stan Russ
Website: http://www.1st-in-toys.com

Tyneside Firm's International Success in Dolls House Miniatures

A Tyneside firm specialising in miniature figures for dolls' houses is branching out into new international markets after developing an export strategy with the help from Trade Partners UK - the government body dedicated to providing UK companies with global expertise on international trade and investment. The company's business plan projects that export sales will increase from 37% of turnover to 40% plus by the end of the year.

Doreen Thompson began making dolls as a hobby and in 1994 she launched her business, under the name Katy Sue Dolls, working from her kitchen table. She enlisted the help of her daughter, Susan Balfour, a qualified hairdresser, to create wigs for the dolls. The pair now run the business from new premises in South Shields employing three staff and exporting to around 28 countries worldwide, with major markets including the USA, Japan and Hong Kong.

Ms Thompson, who was highly commended in the New Exporter Individual Achievement category of the North East Export Awards 2003, sponsored by Trade Partners UK, explained, These dolls really are collectors pieces and people seem to really love them. We create historically accurate costumes right through the centuries to modern outfits to cater for varied customer tastes. We also supply DIY kits for our more creative customers to produce their own dolls. All the dolls are made of porcelain, mainly from our own exclusive moulds and we often use the same sculptor as Royal Doulton.

We have initially been exporting via mail order and it's only recently, with the help of Trade Partners UK, that we've incorporated exports as a main part of our business strategy. After joining the Your passport to export success' programme, for the first time this year we've attended exhibitions in Los Angeles and New York and will be going to Chicago next April to build our profile.

Also see: comfort kids dolls

About The Author:

Stan Russ is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-toys.com.  Find all the toys you wish you had as a kid. Fun and educational toys found here.