Interview with Condell Giftware

This interview was conducted on 25 March 2000 with Mr Mark Dougall, co- Director of Condell Giftware.

Who is Condell Giftware?
Condell Giftware is a gift and toy distributor/wholesaler who introduced and distributes (Skansen Giftware's) Bean Bean Mates in the USA.  It is owned by two Aussies who love selling gifts and toys. 

What is the story behind the introduction of Bean Bag Mates in the USA?
We introduced Bean Bag Mates in the USA in April 1999.  Our reason for doing so was because we saw a great opportunity in the market for an Australian bean bag toy. They have everything going for them: they are cute, fun, colourful, and the quality is great.

Will any other Bean Bag Mates be introduced in the future?
Yes we will introduce more later this year.  We are always looking at new designs to add to our USA range.

Any interesting news about what will be happening with the range this year - ie shows etc ?
Well so far this year we have exhibited at the California Gift Show and New York Toy Fair, in addition our sales representatives in Ohio and San Fransisco both exhibited Bean Bag Mates in their local shows. The shows are great for us as they really raise our exposure and so we will be doing more shows later in the year.

Where can I get them from?
Bean Bag Mates are available all over the USA in gift and toy stores and through some online retailers.  If you want to know the nearest location to you just email us with your town/city/state at cndl@earthlink.com.

Pictures from LA Gift show, Jan 2000

Murray Purkiss, co-director, at the stall

Mark Dougall, co-director, at the stall

Photo of the stall. Notice that horoscope bears are displayed on the bench;  These bears have the horoscope sign embroidered on their fronts.These bears are already selling in Australia and could be introduced to the USA depending on interest.

Display of Bean Bag Mates

BeansTalk, April 2000