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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
Utah is becoming an increasingly globally-focused state. The Kauffman Foundation listed Utah in the top ten states for "Export Focus for Manufacturing and Services." We were sixth overall in the 2010 ranking and took the No. 1 spot as the most improved export state.
How about Naartjie Kids, a quality children's apparel brand, which operates almost 50 stores in the U.S. and ships to 30 countries around the world? The corporate headquarters are located in Salt Lake City. This is fun, bright clothing for children up to 10 years old that's designed to be mixed and matched. Because of the garment dying process used to create the bright clothing, it's already been washed at least twice before it's sold, so the fabric is soft and comfortable.
Designer Anne Eales founded the company in Cape Town, South Africa in 1989 because she wanted something more exciting than the basics that were available in children's clothing at the time. So, she created colorful, fun designs that quickly gained an international following with loyal customers in Africa, Europe, Asia and North America.
One of the unique aspects of Naartjie Kids is that even with an online store, customers from around the world can call or email any of the stores and order products directly from that store. This offers a more personalized shopping experience and creates bonds between store managers and customers not close to their store. Even locals like this service.
The company is poised for growth and focuses on opening their stores in only the best malls and most beneficial locations. Most recently they opened in the Mall of America in Minnesota and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. To stay true to their South African roots, Naartjie Kids has 25 stores in South Africa alone and all design is done there.
If you'd like to find out more about how to build your company's global presence, you can attend the tenth annual Zions Bank Trade and Business Conference on May 26. For more information or to register, visit www.zionsbank.com/conference.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Naartjie 801- 973-7988 www.naartjie.com
