ABC Kids Expo 2009: Netto Collection And Maclaren Launch Louis Collection Early 2010

A lot has happened in the past year for the Netto Collection, and not all of it was apparent to consumers. The Netto Collection was recently acquired by stroller company Maclaren, and at the show they are presenting the finalized version of the Louis Collection that was previewed at last year’s show. And perhaps more importantly, “Louis” will be the first Maclaren-produced David Netto design.

The Louis Collection still features a crib and changing table, and like last year the same curved lines stand out from other Netto designs but the white lacquer has given way to a more subtle, matte finish. The wood is also different, now made of American oak and although it’s hard to describe, it just looked better to me than some of the other wood I’m used to seeing on Netto pieces.

The changing table definitely has the most changes from last year’s prototype, and now features all closed drawers and cabinets – something changed due to customer and retailer feedback they were getting. My favorite part of the piece is the hamper drawer (shown pulled out below).

The part that consumers will like (especially compared to previous Netto Collection furniture) is the price. At $1,195 for both pieces, they are the lowest priced items in the Netto Collection.

The Louis crib and changing table will be available for $1195 each for the first three months of 2010 at Giggle and Genius Jones exclusively, and then everywhere after that. There is no information on any website yet, but you can check out the rest of the collection at NettoCollection.com.