YONDI HEAD HUGGERS - BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE! - Friday 22nd January 2010

Children can fall asleep almost anywhere and our Yondi Head Huggers are designed to stop little heads slumping forward, giving your child a more comfortable sleep. Smarter Products range of colourful and cute travel pillows fit behind your child's head whilst the neck-hugging paws connect underneath the chin using ingenious magnets. For a limited period Smarter Products have a speical Yondi offer - Buy one get one half price! Starting from only £10.95 our Yondi's are the fun and cuddly way to provide head and neck support for children aged one to eight years.

GET A GRIP WITH SMARTER PRODUCTS ICE FOOTWEAR - Monday 18th January 2010

Since the start of the January "Big Freeze" we at Smarter Products have been snowed under with orders for DueNorth Ice Cleats (formally Get a Grip), with over 500 orders in the first three days of launching the product! Otherwise known as "snow chains for shoes" this new range of ice footwear are made of rubber which makes them durable, easy to fix over any flat shoe or boot and convenient to fold away in your handbag or glove compartment when not in use. What makes these traction aids so special are the Ice DiamondTM tungsten carbide spikes that help to prevent any slipping over in the snow and the ice, which can be so dangerous at this time of year. At only £19.99 these DueNorth Ice Spikes are proving to be invaluable if you want to carry on with your everyday activities without fear of slipping over.

COME UP WITH A CRACKING INVENTION... - Friday 18th December 2009

If you're into great ideas, wacky contraptions and crazy inventions then this kit is perfect! This Wallace and Gromit Inventors Kit includes a note book with light up pen so ideas can be drawn up day or night, a book on patenting and copyrighting to keep your ideas safe and a 'Do Not Disturb' sign to avoid interruptions! The Inventors kits are in stock now priced at only £7.95 and will be with you in time for Christmas if you order now!

A TRUNKI IS FOR LIFE (AND IT'S ACCESSORIES)... NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS! - Thursday 17th December 2009

So, we have the old favourites; Terrance Trunki and Trixie Trunki. We have the limited editions; Harley the Lady Bug Trunki and Tipu the Tiger Trunki and we have our newest arrival (the very scary) Gruffalo Trunki. No matter which fun character you chose they are all sure to make great presents that kids can play with, ride on, pack and take on holiday.

The suitcases are just the beginning of the Trunki family, and at Smarter Products we stock all of the accessories you need to complete your Trunki collection. Available now are Trunki Yondi's which are the perfect cuddly neck huggers to keep your children comfortable while in their car seats. They are available for children aged 1+ and come in a range of colours and sizes so you can choose the perfect one.

Whether or not your child owns a Trunki, our ranges of travel chums are not only useful but fun as well! The Trunki Saddle Bag doubles up as a saddle for a Trunki or could be used with the Trunki Pencil Case for school, while the Trunki Holster, Trunki Tote Bag and Trunki Wash Bag are the perfect accompaniment for any holiday or trip.

A new and exciting product that we have available to pre order for March 2010 is the Trunki BoostApak. This innovative product doubles up as a rucksack and a booster seat and solves the endless problem of trying to hire booster seats for hire cars while on holiday. These are bound to be popular so order yours today!

NEW COLOURS AND LOWER PRICES FOR THE ME FEED ME RANGE - Monday 16th November 2009

The innovative Me Feed Me collection created by Salmon Luke has just got even more exciting! Not only have all the Me Feed Me Bowl, Fork and Spoon sets been re-launched at the even better price of £9.95, there are another two vibrant colours to choose from. Whether you decide on Pink, Blue, Green or Purple for your Me Feed Me Bowl and Cutlery, this product is guaranteed to make meal time more fun for your toddler and less stressful for you!

A CRACKING IDEA FOR CHRISTMAS! - Monday 9th November 2009

It’s nearly that time of year again, and what better way to celebrate than with two of everyone’s favourite characters - Wallace and Gromit. Whether you have children, or you are simply young at heart, our range of exciting products based on the loveable animation will make anyone smile this Christmas. Wake up to the sound of the Wallace and Gromit Cracking Alarm Clock; make sure your cup of tea is perfect by setting the dials on the Wallace and Gromit Perfect Cuppa and then come up with your own ideas with the Inventors Kit which features the chance to enter your very own cracking contraption into a competition which will be judged by Aardman Animations, the IPO and WOW Stuff!

FREE DELIVERY FOR TRUNKI GRUFFALO AND SCUTTLEBUGS! - Monday 5th October 2009

Smarter Products are currently offering FREE DELIVERY for our Trunki Gruffalo which is available for immediate dispatch; and FREE DELIVERY for all Scuttlebug Trikes ordered during October for delivery in November. This offer applies to standard deliveries within the UK for a limited period. Hurry, hurry, hurry...!

OKIEDOG BABY CHANGING BAGS ARE HERE! - Friday 7th August 2009

There seems to be a bit of a baby boom this Autumn and if you're looking for a stylish, practical and ULTRA lightweight bag for all those bits and bobs then look no further than the Okiedog Baby Changing Bag. Meet the SNAZ Tote Bag and the SUMO Bag - the ultra lightweight baby changing bags that are oozing with functionality and style! The Okiedog bags are brand new from Europe, so be quick and you'll be the coolest new parents around!

SMARTER PRODUCTS TEAMS UP WITH CURRENT COST - Tuesday 28th July 2009

We are delighted to become an official retailer for Current Cost Energy Monitors and their associated range. The Envi CC128 is the next generation energy monitor and will help you save energy and money. Current Cost are the first manufacturer to incorporate the facility to monitor up to nine individual appliances through a single display unit and view this data either on-screen or with a PC using the optional data cable and software. This facility will be available from September 2009 by adding individual appliance modules (IAMs) to your system. These IAMs will be sold in packs of three and can be used to accurately track the cost of running any household appliance with a standard three pin plug.

BE THE COOLEST KIDS ON THE BEACH WITH IMSE VIMSE! - Friday 24th July 2009

We at Smarter Products are taking a positive approach to the summer and hoping that August is going to be hot, hot, hot! Hopefully whether we are holidaying at home or away we can enjoy lots of sunshine at the beach. Without wanting to spoil the fun we do, of course, need to make sure that we are properly protected from the sun's harmful rays. Adding to our Radicool Skins 100 UV A & B SPF range for kids, we have just launched the ImseVimse Swim Nappy and Tankini. The swim nappies are available in lots of different colours, suitable for girls and boys, and the pretty Tankini Tops make a complete swimsuit for the girls, providing additional sun protection.

AWARD WINNING RAZOR RIPSTIK ARRIVING IN AUGUST - Wednesday 15th July 2009

The Razor Ripstik Caster Board allows riders to carve up the concrete in ways usually seen only on the slopes or through the waves! The 360 degree inclined casters and pivoting deck provide a carving motion unlike any other self propelling board. The concave deck and traction plates provide increased foot control. Look out for the RipStik Classic, RipStik Ripster, RipStik G and RipStik Air. It's easy to pick up, just twist and go! Most models will be available during August, others will hit the UK later this year. Best for age 8 years +

COOL DOWN, RELAX AND SLEEP WELL WITH CHILLOW - Friday 10th July 2009

If you're suffering with any of the following: Lack of sleep - night sweats & hot flushes, migraine and headaches - Sunburn, eczema and many other skin conditions, including acne - Muscular aches and pains - restless leg syndrome - Radio or chemotherapy treatment and related side effects; then the Chillow cooling pad can help.... see the Chillow page for more details.

PERFECT FOR CAMPING - SOLAR LIGHT CAP! - Friday 2nd July 2009

if you are going camping this summer then take a look at our Solar Light Caps. Solarlight is a 'headtorch' with a difference! By day, it is a stylish cap that protects you from the sun, whilst using the sun to charge the solar batteries . By night, it is a fashionable headlight, providing you with ultra bright LED light via an inconspicuous, environmentally friendly solar-powered light. The Solarlight Cap runs for over 5000 hours with no batteries required!

SMARTER PRODUCTS WELCOMES THE WORLD OF SPRIG! - Wed 17 June 2009

This week we took stock of Sprig Eco Friendly Toys - an award winning range of trucks, diggers, adventure guides and many more… Sprig Hollow is a place where kids power the fun which fuels their imagination. It's where batteries are nowhere to be seen and kids are off the sofa! Sprig's adventure vehicles and character guides become favorite toys and constant companions - active kids, happy parents, healthy planet, what a wonderful world!

THE STIG GETS SMARTER - Mon 01 June 2009

We are delighted to launch a brand new range of toys, gifts and gadgets from the BBC's favourite motoring program, Top Gear. From the stress-busting STIG Doll to the replica of the world famous 'Robin Reliant Rocket' stunt! The Stretchy Glo-STIG Keyring and the V8 Power Pencil Sharpener are in stock ready for Fathers' Day on June 21st!

CRACKING IDEAS AT SMARTER PRODUCTS - Fri 15 May 2009

We are looking forward to bringing some cracking ideas from Wallace and Gromit to the Smarter Products range in the next month. From the Cracking Alarm Clock (mornings will never be the same again!) to the world's highest flying air-powered Water Rocket! For budding inventors, young and old, Wallace and Gromit's Inventors' Kit is essential - you can even enter your ideas into a competition which will be judged by Aardman Animations, WOW! Stuff and the Intellectual Property Office... get cracking!

LOOK OUT FOR NEW TRUNKI PRODUCTS - Thu 30 April 2009

Watch this space for the new Trunki limited edition for 2009 - Harley the Ladybug! Also coming soon the Trunki Saddlebag - a super cool messenger bag that holds all your favourite stuff! Little ones can carry their crayons, comics, treasures and more! With a twist, transform it into a saddle for your Trunki, complete with padding and stirrups for a truly luxurious ride! Be the first to get new Trunki Extras at Smarter Products.

SPRING SALE - GEKKO BOOTS - Wed 15 April 2009

We have reduced all our Gekko Boots to £4.95! Gekko boots are great for kids at any time of the year, rain or shine they are easy to pull on and off and come in a fabulous range of colours. Whether splashing through puddles, playing in the park or protecting little feet on the beach, these boots are perfect and at £4.95 they won't break the bank!

NEW IN TOWN! YONDI AND HOLSTERS ARRIVE FROM TRUNKI - Mon 9th March 2009

More new friends have arrived from Trunki this week The Yondi Head Hugger 'travel pillow' will give tired little travellers lots of snuggly comfort! For slightly older children the Yondi even comes with a pocket to hold an MP3 player. Another new arrival is the Trunki Holster available in Blue or Pink, stay hydrated throughout the trip or keep essential bits and bobs close to hand. The bottle bag or bits pouch can clip onto Trunki, the back of a seat, pram or even use the Trunki shoulder strap to carry around. Get your Trunki Holster today!

SMARTER PRODUCTS LAUNCHES THE LATEST TRUNKI - TIPU THE TIGER! - Wed 14 Jan 2009

We are delighted to announce a new arrival for the New Year - the latest limited edition from Trunki - 'Tipu' the Tiger Trunki is only prowling the plains for 2009! Made to the same high standard as the Trunki Trio but with two carry handles, Tipu is this year's ultimate travelling companion. You can be the first to own Tipu by pre-ordering yours for delivery week beginning Feb 2nd. Fitted with the same spec as Terrance, Trixie, Towgo and Frieda (features: soft rubber rim, ID label, carry handles, teddy bear seatbelts, passport, locking catches, secret compartments, internal pouch) - make 2009 tiggerific with Tipu the Tiger Trunki!

SCIENCE TIME AT SMARTER PRODUCTS - Mon 24 Nov 2008

We are thrilled to have the brand new range of Science Time Solar Energy Models. Science Time is a range of innovative 'simple to build' kits for children and adults alike. The range includes a Solar Boat, Solar Helicopter , Solar Music Box, Solar Racer and Solar Roller Coaster. All the kits are educational but also offer long lasting fun and entertainment when placed in direct sunlight or under a strong light source, such as a halogen light.

LAUNCH OF THE NEW OWL WIRELESS ENERGY MONITOR - Fri 17 Oct 2008

Smarter Products are very pleased to have the first batch of the new Owl Wireless Electricity Monitor CM119. The Owl has been updated and the CM119 offers extended features such as: A cumulative function that lets you see your cost accumulate over any period you choose, be it daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or on an annual basis. You can then start to track changes over time which allows you to fine tune your energy saving strategy in an even better way than before. The new multiple tariff function means you can set your OWL to factor in a range of tariffs (Economy 7, Night-time etc) to create an even more accurate picture of your usage. A much improved battery life now gives greater than 12 months usage with the batteries supplied. The new Owl CM119 is priced at £34.95 - start saving on energy bills today!

USEFUL INFORMATION FROM IMRG REGARDING SHOPPING ON LINE - Wed 15 Oct 2008

IMRG Christmas Statement 2008

You can ease the crunch on your credit and beat those banking blues by shopping online this Christmas, says IMRG the industry body for e-retailing.
Despite the current financial gloom, IMRG expects internet retailing to buck the latest economic trends and anticipates a year on year growth for the final quarter of around 15% as bargain seeking customers spend £13.16 billion online in the run up to Christmas.
With less than 50 shopping days to go, now more than ever shopping online will be the best place for cash-conscious consumers looking to find the best prices and products for presents this festive season.
Research carried out earlier this year for the IMRG e-Customer Service Index by e-Digital Research, found that 68% of shoppers would be more likely to shop online for Christmas presents this year, with 77% of shoppers planning to carry out about half or more of their Christmas shopping online (up from 56% in 2007). This confidence in the competitive prices available online was confirmed with 79% of respondents satisfied with this aspect of online shopping.
The research also highlighted that the internet is becoming increasingly important as a tool for research before purchase and for driving consumer choice. The internet will be used by 86% of shoppers' surveyed to research Christmas shopping options before buying in-store, and vice versa 59% stated they plan to research gift options in-store before buying online.
Commenting on consumers shopping online, Bruce Fair of IMRG member Kelkoo said: "People are looking to get the best brands and the best prices this Christmas and our research shows that 78% of people are planning to do their Christmas shopping online rather than on the high street. We always advise shoppers to check the delivery times and costs to avoid any disappointments, which is why we ensure that every retailer lists these details clearly. The biggest demand looks set to be for the Nintendo Wii and Wii Fit, the big video games such as Call of Duty and flat-screen TVs, which have come down dramatically in price in the last few months".
Shopping Online provides a convenient way of making purchases at any time of day, 365 days a year, from a huge range of retailers offering more choice than ever before. However, IMRG recommends that you take some precautionary measures to protect yourself and ensure that you have an enjoyable time shopping in the global shopping centre that the internet has come to represent, and here are our TEN TOP TIPS:-
1. All of your usual shopping rights apply online: see www.consumer.gov.uk
2. Know who you're dealing with: get the seller's landline phone number and postal address
3. Be aware of terms and conditions: check payment and delivery details
4. Keep records of what you order
5. EU Law protects you against fraudulent use of your payment card in EU transactions: credit cards give you extra protection
6. Only give your payment card details over a secure connection, and never by email: never disclose your PIN number to anyone, and never send it over the internet
7. You usually have at least 7 days to cancel an order and request a refund from an EU retailer
8. Check your payment card statement carefully: you have at least 90 days to report a suspect transaction
9. When you buy goods online from outside the EU: o you (the customer) are an importer and may be liable to pay any Customs Duty and VAT; o err on the side of caution as it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise
10. If you have a problem, contact the seller then, if you need to, the payment company, local Trading Standards Office and any 'trustmark' organsiation the seller is registered with.
IMRG manages the Internet Shopping Is Safe (ISIS) trustmark scheme and ISIS-Accredited retailers now account for approximately two thirds of all UK online shopping.
Consumers can shop online with confidence wherever they see the ISIS logo because it certifies that the retailer has:
o registered with the ISIS programme and undertaken to trade in a manner that is LEGAL, DECENT, HONEST, TRUTHFUL AND FAIR; o had its web site and service reviewed and monitored by IMRG; o had its Business, VAT and Data Protection registrations checked by IMRG.
According to the PayPoint.net survey, 50% of consumers shopping online are checking the ISIS logo on accredited retailers' sites.
Continuing with the security of shopping online theme, Mark Bowerman of APACS commented, "Shopping online is more popular than ever before - it is estimated that last year there were 645 million consumer internet payments, up from 541 million in 2006. More than 30 million adults bought something online in the second half of last year - but it is important that consumers follow common sense advice to ensure they stay safe from fraud. Raising awareness of how to shop safely online is the theme of the Be Card Smart Online campaign, backed by the banking and retail industries, which launched on 20 October and is running until Christmas.
Keeping your PC protected with up-to-date anti-virus software and registering your credit and debit cards for the secure online payment systems - Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode - are two of the messages the campaign is promoting. More than 25 million cards have been registered for Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode, an increase in take-up of more than 600 per cent in just two years. Similarly, more and more online retailers are introducing these same secure systems, and those that have signed-up currently handle approximately one third of the value of all the UK's online shopping. The banking industry continues to urge those cardholders not yet signed up to do so, as we all need to play our part to make life harder for online shopping fraudsters. More information is available at www.becardsmart.org.uk."
Ultimately, the online shopping experience is only as good as the delivery. Parcels giant and IMRG Member, GeoPost, who operate the DPD and Interlink Express brands in the UK, are focused on "right-first-time" delivery and offer the following advice:
When you buy online ensure you are given a delivery date and that you will be there to sign for your parcel.
If you are unable to be in to accept delivery, consider using an alternative delivery address, perhaps a friend or relative can take delivery for you.
Order your goods in plenty of time so you can arrange delivery to suit.
Always include the postcode in a delivery address.
DPD and Interlink are the only parcel carriers in the marketplace to offer advance text notification of delivery with an option for the receiver to change delivery to a more convenient date, all via text. Not only does this mean great customer service, it's good for the environment as more right-first-time deliveries are made, fewer delivery journeys mean less fuel and lower carbon emissions.
Jo Evans, Managing Director of IMRG commented:
"For online retailers and consumers the current economic climate will prove a testing time. However, shoppers looking to make the most out of their squeezed spending resources will find that buying online gives them the opportunity to find and compare products and prices easily and efficiently. The IMRG online retailers will need to ensure as well, that they are prepared and ready to meet their customers' requirements by providing good product display and availability, with easy to follow payment and delivery information."

About IMRG : IMRG (Interactive Media In Retail Group) is the industry body for global e-Retail. Formed in 1990, IMRG is setting and maintaining pragmatic and robust e-Retail Standards to enable fast-track industry growth, and facilitates its community of members with practical help, information, tools, guidance and networking. Consumers can be confident when dealing with IMRG Members because all have committed to operate using methods that are Honest, Decent, Legal, Truthful and Fair, and have undertaken to not bring the industry into disrepute. The strength of IMRG is the collective and co-operative power of its members.

For more information please visit http://www.imrg.org/ or email market@imrg.org
Contact
David J Smith
Director of Operations
+44 (0)20 7189 5533

SMARTER PRODUCTS GOES BACK TO SCHOOL - Mon 01 Sep 2008

It's that time of year again and we have some great products for children going back to school. Have a look at the Concentrate Lunch Box and Cool Bag - great for protecting fruit from getting bruised and keeping lunch cool; the Concentrate Bottlecoolerpenholder should encourage children to keep a bottle of water on their desk and gives them a handy place for their pen as well; the Concentrate Chairpadbag provides a comfortable seat and rucksack all-in-one. If you are looking for handy kids' boots to carry around or keep at school, the Gekko boots are comfortable, easy to get on and off and come in a great range of colours.

SMARTER SUMMER HOLIDAYS - Sun 20 Jul 2008

The summer holidays are here at last! Make sure the children are fully protected from the sun with our Radicool Skins range which give 100% UV A&B protection. A cool and trendy range of tops, shorts, all-in-one suits and sun hats that are great for running around in the sun and in and out of the pool. Our Scrunch Bucket, Scrunch Ball and Scrunch Digger are easy to pack in a suitcase and great to play with on the beach. To beat boredom whilst travelling have a look at the Mensa range - Brain Trainers, The Orb and Touchscreen Sudoku.

SMARTER PRODUCTS ACCEPTS PAYPAL - Mon 30 Jun 2008

As of 28 June we are pleased to be able to accept payment by Paypal. PayPal enables you to send payments quickly and securely online using a credit card or bank account. You can also check the status of your payment. Smarter Products also accepts payment by credit card via the secure Protx system or by cheque or postal order. Happy secure shopping

SMARTER PRODUCTS STOCKS UNIROSS RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES AND CHARGERS - Wed 18 Jun 2008

We are delighted to be stocking a range of rechargeable batteries and chargers that are WWF approved and supplied by 'the most ethical battery company in the world' as described by the Ethical Consumer Magazine. Rechargeable batteries have up to 32 times less impact on the environment than disposable batteries, for more information see 'UNiROSS Study on the Environmental Impact of Batteries'

SMARTER PRODUCTS SPONSORS THE BRISTOL DESIGN FESTIVAL 2008 - Fri 13 Jun 2008

Smarter Products were proud sponsors of the Bristol Design Festival for the second year running. As predicted the event has grown tremendously since its first outing and seems set to be a continuing success that will grow year on year. Read more about the history of Bristol Design Festival, click here to go to the website.

SMARTER PRODUCTS RECEIVES FIRST STOCKS OF CATERPLATE - Sat 03 May 2008

It's been a busy time at Smarter Products with the first stock of Caterplates arriving from the Netherlands. This ingenious design provides a plate, fork, knife, spoon and glass-holder all in one. There are even little pots for sauces and dips. Caterplates are perfect for bbqs, parties and events or just to take on a picnic. They are 100% recyclable so if you don't want to re-use them you don't need to feel guilty; if you are happy to re-use they go in the dishwasher so it really couldn't be easier! Caterplates are available in black or transparent and in packs of 6, 10 or 48.

SMARTER PRODUCTS IS APPROACHED BY Y-PLY - Sun 27 Apr 2008

We at Smarter Products are delighted to have been approached by Stephané Vue, one of the creators of the fantastic Y-ply Lying and Sitting Support. This innovative and award winning product from France is the answer to comfort outside whether you are lying down reading a book or sitting and watching the world go by! The Y-ply comes in a variety of vibrant colours and has its own little bag so it makes a great gift.

BUSINESS LINK COMES UP WITH 5 SIMPLE TIPS TO LIMIT ENERGY WASTE - Wed 02 Apr 2008

Switch off your computers and monitors over lunch and photocopiers and printers at the end of the working day.

Fit compact fluorescent lamps wherever possible, they use five times less energy than conventional bulbs and also last much longer, reducing maintenance costs.

Review your insulation and draught proofing - this not only cuts your heating bills in winter, but helps to keep you cool in summer.

Reduce room temperatures by just 1°C and cut your heating bills by around eight per cent.

Install time controllers to your heating system, hot water boilers, immersion heaters and any circulating pumps to minimise out of hours wastage.

BBC NEWS REPORTS UK RETAIL FIGURES ROSE IN FEBRUARY - Thu 20 Mar 2008

UK retail sales unexpectedly rose strongly in February official figures have shown. Sales grew 1% last month from January and by 5.5% from February 2007, said the Office for National Statistics.
The figures have surprised analysts, who had expected sales in February to decline 0.2% from January.
The upbeat data may persuade the Bank of England to delay further reductions in interest rates.
The Bank of England kept rates on hold in March at 5.25%, following three cuts in recent months, as it aimed to ease fears over the impact of the continuing credit crunch and global financial market turbulence.

"February's surprising sharp jump in retail sales, if taken at face value, suggests that a consumer slowdown hasn't even begun yet" Vicky Redwood, Capital Economics

A number of analysts had expected the Bank to reduce rates further as early as next month, but with the latest upbeat retail data suggesting UK consumer sentiment remains strong, the central bank may delay.
The Bank itself has already reiterated its need to ease economic pressures with its remit to control inflation.
UK inflation as measured by the government's preferred Consumer Prices Index is currently running at 2.5%, above the 2% target.

BYE BYE STANDBY LAUNCHES INTO THE BUSINESS MARKET - Wed 19 Mar 2008

Independent research shows that Bye Bye Standby® will save the average office £32 per employee per year.

Following the success of Bye Bye Standby in the retail market, the company is now helping to do the same for the office, with the focus on supporting businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. Independent research shows that Bye Bye Standby® will save the average business £32 per employee per year, representing millions of pounds across the country. Geoff Ellis, Sales Director, Bye Bye Standby says, "Our energy saving office solution has been designed for businesses of any size who want to make a difference and start saving energy and money almost straight away. With Bye Bye Standby, the initial cost of the kit is returned many times over with savings on energy bills."

How much energy could Bye Bye Standby save? (Independent Research)

The 10 person office
o Annual energy savings: 5,000 kWh
o Annual CO2 reduction: 2,150 kg (similar to installing 60m2 of PV solar panels)
o Annual financial savings: £375


The 50 person office
o Annual energy savings: 20,597 kWh
o Annual CO2 reduction: 8,857 kg (similar to installing £150,000 of PV solar panels)
o Annual financial savings: £1,545


The 100 person office
o Annual energy savings: 41,387 kWh
o Annual CO2 reduction: 17,796 kg (similar to installing a wind turbine with a rotor diameter of 9m and a mast height of 10m - on a perfect site)
o Annual financial savings: £3,104

SMARTERPRODUCTS ADDS ECO-EYE TO ITS ENERGY SAVING RANGE - Sat 8 Mar 2008

With energy bills on the rise again we are constantly looking for new products that will help you to reduce energy bills at home and in the office. Eco-Eye is a brand new range of electricity monitors incorporating the Eco-Eye Elite which has a large display, ideally suited for wall-mounting; and the Eco-Eye Mini which is stylish, compact and portable. The range will soon be expanding to bring in the Wi-Eye which allows you to keep an eye on your energy usage via your PC. Eco-eye has a full range of functions which make it highly competitive in the field of real-time electricity monitoring. A particular strength is that its design makes it extremely user-friendly to program and operate. With these facts in mind we are sure Eco-eye will appeal to everyone.

ONLINE SHPPERS CAUGHT SALES FEVER LAST MONTH, SPENDING MORE ON THE WEB THAN THAN IN ANY PREVIOUS JANUARY, FIGURES SHOW - Fri 22 Feb 2008

Some £4.5bn was spent last month, a 75% rise compared with January last year, said industry body the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG).
Sales were dominated by electrical goods and clothes, which each saw a year-on-year rise of about a third.
But the amount spent fell from the record level seen during the pre-Christmas rush in December.
The equivalent of £74 for every person in the UK was spent online in January, the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index found.

Bumper Sales
"The index shows that January sales are as large a phenomenon online as they are on the high street, with the overall online market continuing to show strong growth," said Anthoula Madden, vice-president at Capgemini UK's consumer products and retail team.
"The high growth in electricals and clothing suggests that much of this spending is being driven by shoppers treating themselves to the items missing from their Christmas stockings."
The growth in sales volume over the last three months was more than double that of the same period last year. It was at the highest level since January 2003, the index based on about 60 online retailers found.
Sales from the electrical sector in January 2007 rose by 38% compared with the same month last year, while clothing was up by 32%, health and beauty by 18%, and beers, wines and spirits by 9.8%.
BBC News

BYE BYE STANDBY LAUNCHES INTEGRATED ENERGY SAVING RANGE - Wed 30 Jan 2008

Following the success of the Bye Bye Standby® Energy Saving Kit, Domia announces the arrival of seven "smart extensions" to its energy saving range.

The new Bye Bye Standby® collection includes novel energy saving gadgets such as a motion sensor, wall switch, keyfob remote control, a lamp dimmer and a heavier duty socket (3000W/ 13 amp). A dual pack of 1000W/4amp sockets and spare remote control are also available. Thanks to such additions, green minded consumers will be able to expand their basic Bye Bye Standby® Energy Saving Kit to create fully integrated energy saving system within their home or office.

All the new extension products work wirelessly via an RF signal ensuring easy installation and avoiding any disruption or extra DIY within the home.

"The new energy saving range provides an affordable and simple solution for anyone wanting to take simple measures to reduce their carbon footprint and "green their home", said Geoff Ellis, Director for Bye Bye Standby®. "The average household in the UK is responsible for about six tonnes of CO2 emissions every year - enough to fill six hot air balloons 10 metres in diameter! By using Bye Bye Standby®, the average household can save around £38 per year and reduce their carbon emissions by at least 166kg per annum. In a world of rising energy prices and global warming saving money and energy makes sense."

SMARTER PRODUCTS STOCKS SALMON LUKE'S ME FEED ME DINNERWARE - Fri 25 Jan 2008

The Smarter Products Team is delighted to have made contact with the design company Salmon Luke and will soon be stocking their Me-Feed-Me Dinnerware for children. The ingenious design of this bowl and cutlery set means that little ones trying to master the art of self-feeding will not have to 'chase' food around the bowl and get frustrated and hungry! The bowl has three corners which helps to guide food onto the spoon and the wave shaped rim flips food onto the spoon rather than over the side of the bowl. There are many clever features and this will make a great gift for babies and toddlers... Me-Feed-Me Dinnerware will be available at Smarter Products from the middle of February.

SMARTER PRODUCTS ADDS TO ENERGY SAVING RANGE WITH ECOSAVERS RANGE - Mon 20 Jan 2008

In our continuing drive to find products that help us all to be more energy efficient at home, we are pleased to launch EcoSavers. EcoSavers are plug-in sockets for individual appliances and the range includes: EcoSavers Energy Monitor (available in February) and EcoSavers Standby for TV and Computer (available in April). At £11.99 each these brand new products offer a cost effective way to make sure that the appliances you use most can start costing you less to run... .EcoSavers can be pre-ordered now at Smarter Products

SMARTER PRODUCTS APPROACHED BY PLANTPAL WATERING SYSTEM UK - Fri 30 Nov 2007

We have been approached by Ade Andu - the inventor of the Plantpal Watering System for pot plants and hanging baskets. Whether you are at home or away Plantpal will administer just the right amount of water that your plants require. It is potted up with your plant and hidden away from view. Plantpal uses a patented hydrodynamic valve which allows pot plants to water themselves on demand, a water level indicator shows you when a refill is required. Another great product which we are very pleased to have in stock....

ONLINE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SPENDING TO RISE 42% - Thu 8 Nov 2007

From: www.computer weekly.com
Online Christmas shopping spending to rise 42%, survey says
Author: Antony Savvas
Posted: 12:49 08 Nov 2007

"UK online shoppers will spend £13.8bn during the Christmas festive season this year - a 42% increase on last year.

The estimate is from the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG). IMRG, which represents leading etailers, said shoppers are migrating online to find more choice, convenience and better prices.

In addition, according to the latest IMRG Customer Service Index by eDigitalResearch and ipoints, confidence in website security rose two percentage points in the past quarter to 75.6%.

The IMRG Customer Service Index also revealed that customer delivery satisfaction had risen to 80.2%"

We at Smarter Products have put together a great range of gifts for Christmas - you should be able to find presents for all the family and your friends. From useful and eco-friendly gifts like the Owl Wireless Electricity Monitor to the leaf grabbing Grab-O-Saurus for keen gardeners to exciting and stimulating toys to keep the children occupied and active this Winter. We also have some great PIFCO Christmas Lights which can be used indoors or outdoors and are very attractive in blue or white. Remember we are adding to our range all the time, so you can always check back to see what's new…….. Happy Stress-free Shopping!

FROM MENSA - THE HIGH IQ SOCIETY - Wed 31 Oct 2007

"British Mensa has launched a new range of exciting puzzles and gifts - the Mensa 'Best in Test' Collection - and they are already proving very popular with high street and online retailers.

The High IQ Society teamed up with gift and gadget specialists Wow! Stuff to create the range, which includes a handheld electronic Brain Trainer, a puzzle-a-day desk Calendar Challenger and a Mensa Test in a Tin.

Mensa marketing manager Bobby Raikhy said: "Our brains need daily exercise to keep them working at peak performance. Each of the gifts in the range is designed to offer different mental stimulation. Scientists believe that when it comes to brainpower you either 'use it or lose it' - which is why we wanted to develop a range of Mensa gifts that would help to maximise concentration, memory and problem solving skills. The 'Best in Test' collection represents the best in innovation and value for money."

Wow! Stuff recently won the Innovation category at the 2007 Licensing Awards. The company is a major UK distribution specialist, focusing mainly on its licensed brands - Mensa, Natural History Museum and the Science Museum.

Kenny McAndrew, Wow! New Product Development director, said; "The Mensa brand has been very popular with our major retail partners. Early indications are that sales are far greater then even we expected and, as one retailer put it sales have 'gone through the roof'.

"New products are already in development for Christmas 2008 when we hope to at least double the size of the collection."

Mensa membership is open to anyone with an IQ score in the top two per cent of the population. There are currently around 24,000 members of British Mensa, from more than 100,000 members worldwide.

The society welcomes people from all walks of life, with the objective of enjoying each other's company and participating in a range of social and cultural activities."

Smarter Products are very pleased to become a re-seller for WOW! Stuff and stocking products from the Mensa, Science Museum and Natural History Museum ranges.

GRAB-O-SAURUS IN THE DAILY TELEGRAPH - Fri 26 Oct 2007

Garden advice: Thorny problems.

Garden tips and advice from our resident expert Helen Yemm. This week: collecting leaves, ground cover and tricky roots.

Collecting leaves
This is the time of year that Harry Brookes and his wife enjoy the least. Keeping on top of all the falling leaves is a job they could do without and having read that I have a large oak tree in my garden, Harry asks if I have any helpful tips to impart that will make his life easier.

While I cannot claim to have a simple solution to the problem, I do feel that this year I am a little ahead of the game.

I now have some labour-saving equipment, and, furthermore, while I had time a few months ago, I built a couple of new leaf cages - simple constructions of chicken wire wrapped around four wooden posts hammered into the ground in tucked-away parts of the garden.

Those with fewer leaves can stuff them in plastic bags, seal them and tuck them away somewhere out of sight. The contents will turn into sludgy leafmould within a year or so. I have also seen mesh bags sold for the purpose.

But how can you capture all these leaves in the first place with the minimum of fuss - and, indeed, why bother?

Waiting for leaves to get trapped in their final resting places around the garden in January is frustrating, and letting them settle creates a cosy underworld for slugs and snails. So at this time of year I rake up much of the daily mess and put it in large, tough tip-bags that I can drag around as I work.

I use a soft plastic or even a rubber-tined rake that does the minimum of damage to the lawn and border plants. (Plastic rakes are fairly ubiquitous. I always use a flat-ended version from Gardena. Rubber rakes are, however, not that common - mine is from Spear and Jackson).

Really good besoms -traditional witches' brooms - often made locally, are hard to find. The best are made from soft birch twigs. A bamboo-twig version I bought last year turned out to be uselessly rigid.

And for picking up leaves efficiently? I always lose my two bits of plywood, plastic "hands" drive me to distraction, so I now use a two-handled grabber. There are lightweight aluminium things around - although a friend of mine has a husband who finds these too lightweight for "real men's work".

The newest leaf-grabber is a thoroughly macho and highly robust gadget that is strong enough to take the back-ache out of picking up horse manure as well. It is called a Grab-O-Saurus (0845 680 0068; www.smarterproducts.co.uk) and I am happily putting one through its paces this year.

As the daily leaf-shower becomes a deluge, I either mow them up or (reluctantly) get out my electric blower/sucker/muncher/bagger, which noisily reduces the volume of the leaves, thereby shortening their rotting time considerably.

My aim is to get everything stowed away by Christmas. Whatever methods I use, it always seems like a lot of work. But the pleasure derived from digging out that lovely leafmould makes up for it. Almost.

OWL LOOKS OUT FOR YOU - Wed 12 Sep 2007

Simple new gadget helps UK consumers save the planet and their pocket.

Keeping an eye on your electrical usage has never been easier with the launch of the new OWL wireless energy monitor. This revelatory device, which aims to help in the fight against climate change, is set to show millions of people just how much electricity we waste in our homes, whilst highlighting the money we can all save as a result.
The OWL monitors the home's electricity supply and for the first time provides real-time monetary information about the household's energy usage. When lights and appliances are turned on, the OWL's easy-to-read LCD monitor reveals exactly how much electricity is being used, how the cost of electricity per hour changes, and how much harmful CO2 emissions the home is producing. By simply turning off appliances when not in use, or rather being used needlessly, UK consumers can actually save up to 25% of their electricity usage - a saving that translates directly to reducing their monthly bills and households' harmful carbon emissions. Over one quarter of all UK CO2 emissions come from individual homes, with the average UK household creating 6 tonnes of CO2 every year. By acting on the OWL's readings, consumers can not only cut down on their emissions, but reduce the average £870 annual energy bill and the £7.5bn worth of energy that is wasted in the UK every year.*
Keith Berry, Chief Executive of OWL says: "Research shows that UK consumers are keen to take personal action on climate change, but are still unsure of what they can actually do on an individual level. And arguably this is because, although the Government has made significant noise about the need to reduce our energy consumption, households haven't had the physical means to do anything about it. So until now, we've had to wait until our quarterly bills land on our doormats, before we can see the quantity of electricity we've used. This is all set to change with OWL, as people will be able to measure their electrical usage - simply and cost-effectively saving the planet and their pockets."
OWL is simply installed by the householder, without any wiring. It is clipped to the household's electricity supply cable, transmitting data to a portable wireless monitor that can be taken anywhere around the home. By actually viewing the cost of the energy you are using and the effect on the environment as it happens, it's easy to make instant changes that will not only help fight climate change but will really save you money too. It's Eco2 - helping you to save money and the environment. "

We are pleased to be one of the first stockists of the OWL, it is available now at £49.95

BACK TO SCHOOL - Fri 21 Aug 2007
Although we don't want to think about it just yet, the new school term is only a couple of weeks away. If you want to make sure your child goes into their new class fully prepared have a look at the Concentrate range - the Lunchbox with Cool Bag; the Chairpadbag and the Bottlecoolerpenholder - sure to be top of the class this Autumn!

NEW PRODUCTS FOR THE AUTUMN - Tue 7 Aug 2007
While everybody else is at the beach we are trawling far and wide to bring you some great new products for the Autumn. We are putting together a collection of control products to help you save energy at home. Look out for the Owl Electricity Monitor, the Efergy Smart Meter and Standby Buster... all coming soon!

SMARTER PRODUCTS SPONSORS
BRISTOL DESIGN FESTIVAL - Fri 20 Jul 2007
This weekend we are at Bristol Design Festival. This is the first event of its kind and aims to celebrate and reflect Bristol's vibrant design scene. Smarter Products are very pleased to sponsor Bristol Design Festival and offer our support; whilst raising awareness as to how Smarter Products can assist Inventors, Designers and Importers in getting their product in front of a worldwide audience.

NEW FAMILY MEMBERS - Tue 10 Jul 2007
Terrance and Trixie have had the excitement of Towgo Trunki arriving - so now you can get Trunki in Blue, Pink or Green - this latest bunch all have additional features so check the page to find out exactly what the Trunki family has to offer……… Our other new addition is Flash Lips from Liparazzi - half the size of the original Liparazzi lip gloss, still with the built in light and mirror and in a new range of sumptuous shades! Flash Lips is small enough to fit in a purse or clutch bag - perfect for a night on the tiles!

SMARTER AFFILIATES - Mon 25 Jun 2007
Our affiliate program is now up and running and we are teaming up with other quality websites who want to have links to Smarter Products. So you may start to see us in unexpected places when you're out 'surfing'…

UK DISTRIBUTION FOR GRAB-O-SAURUS! - Mon 4 Jun 2007

We are delighted to have been given UK distribution to the horticultural market for the ingenious Grab-O-Saurus! Invented and developed by husband and wife team Graham and Susan Renny, the Grab-O-Saurus is the unique answer to the age old problem of bending over to scoop up garden waste. Grab-O-Saurus is the lifting device of the future - designed to expedite and simplify waste collection from ground level. The perfect gift for gardeners - Grab-O-Saurus will be with us very soon……watch this space!

100% UVA&B PROTECTION - Fri 11 May 2007
Although we love a bit of sunshine we are all too aware of the dangers of harmful UV rays and are always looking for better ways to protect our children. Ready for the school holiday at the end of May - we are launching 'Radicool Skins'. Brand new from Australia, Radicool Skins are the only swim/beach wear offering 100% UV A&B protection. Most UV protection wear available in the shops offers 40% protection as a maximum so Radicool Skins really do offer the best protection available. The tops, shorts and hats are available in a great range of colours and designs so you really can be the coolest kids on the beach!

LOW ENERGY LIGHTING - Wed 9 May 2007
One of our new collections is low energy lighting. Working in conjunction with Philips and other leading manufacturers we are able to bring you a range of eco-friendly lighting for the home and office that will not only save you money on electricity but will help you to do your bit for the environment. We expect to have this range available by June so watch this space! - coming soon

NEW BUGS! - Fri 4 May 2007
Keep an eye on our range of cars and bugs for pre-school children - they are expanding! The award winning Didicar now comes in Pretty Princess Pink; you could team this with some Didibug stickers and cover the Didicar with butterflies and flowers - this is sure to make a very cool car for any little lady! The Scuttle bug trike will soon be available in a fantastic red Ladybird design which girls and boys are sure to love! - order yours now!

TRUNKIS IN STOCK - Fri 16 Mar 2007
New stock of Trunkis have arrived ready for the Easter holidays (first week of April) - Trixie and Terrance are keen to join your little travellers wherever they may be going! Order as soon as possible to avoid disapointment! - order yours now!

NEW PRODUCTS - Fri 9 Mar 2007
New @ Smarter Products - see our latest products now available to buy - the Concentrate Lunchbox and Lunchbox Cooler; Collapsibutt Water Retainer; Majamoo Wooden Trays and Trivets; Parrot Boombox; Safe T Light™. even more coming soon!

KITASTICKS ARRIVED - Thu 22 Feb 2007
Our new batch of Kitastick has arrived - order yours now before the rush!

LET's GO OUTSIDE - Wed 14 Feb 2007
We at Smarter Products are already gearing up for the summer - Fete Champetre, Polo matches, Son et Luminere events, Outdoor concerts and good old family picnics! Luckily some very clever designers have come up with some great ideas to make these events even more pleasurable - the Stol portable chair is comfortable, designed to support lower and upper back and folds away into its own bag; the Filt water resistant, washable picnic rugs; stylish wine bottle and glass holders in stainless steel and fun 'Party Plates' that enable you to hold on to food and a drink effortlessly with one hand - all light weight and easy to store away in your picnic hamper. These products and many others will be coming on line soon so keep an eye on our 'Outdoor Living' page. Now our only small concern is the weather, but as we live in the UK we are surely optimistic and foolhardy by nature and not easily deterred!

KITASTICKS COMING - Fri 26 Jan 2007
Our new batch of Kitastick are on the way from Finland and they are coming with some great other products for the home. Our favourite Finnish designer has created some wonderful trays and pot stands which are exceptional in design....... you won't be disappointed!

POSH TRUNKI - Mon 22 Jan 2007
Trunki News! Terrance and Trixie are expecting a new brother or sister to arrive in the Spring………watch this space for 'posh' trunki!

smarter DELIVERIES - Sun 7 Jan 2007
Happy New Year! We noticed an article in The Times today regarding poor delivery services over the Christmas period. "A whopping 24m parcels from online retailers failed to get delivered first time and 4m failed to arrive at all, according to IMRG, the internet research company." Here at Smarter Products we are pleased to report that our success rate was almost 100%; naturally we had a few problems but these were resolved as quickly as possible and our customers' feedback has been very positive. At Smarter Products we are realistic enough to know that things will go wrong from time to time but we strongly believe that it is how the problem is dealt with that really matters.