award-winning ECO-CONSCIOUS children’s shop TO OPEN IN THE CITY

An award-winning family-run children’s shop that celebrates individuality as well as inclusivity is set to open in Palace Street, Canterbury, on 7th July.

Moo Like a Monkey (@moolikeamonkey) has proved a roaring success since opening its first store in Folkestone in 2018. Husband and wife team Charlotte and Nav Khan have won a host of awards for their business, which prides itself on the sustainability of its products while recognising both uniqueness and diversity among children.

“Every product we source is sustainable and ethically made,” says Charlotte. “We showcase eco-conscious brands with inclusive books and clothes that represent all children.

“We understand stereotypes can limit the possibilities and interests of our children. So we try to offer something a little different from what you’d expect to find in the mainstream kids’ market.”

The store draws on more than 200 suppliers, and choice among the abundant toys and books reflect the owners’ commitment to representation and inclusivity.

“We aim to create a space where customers can shop for clothes, books and toys that support their values as a parent,” she says.

“And in the Canterbury shop we’ll have new clothing brands as well as a second-hand buy-back scheme, so something for all budgets.”

The original branch in Folkestone, where the Khans live with their two young children, is located at the heart of the seaside town’s Creative Quarter. And it is this creative sense they will seek to foster in the new branch at the heart of Canterbury’s historic King’s Mile.

“We want everyone to feel welcome and relaxed when in the shop,” says Charlotte. “The design includes a play-space for children, toys and books out for children to play with so parents, grandparents, carers can relax when shopping with young children in tow.”

In Folkestone, the shop has become a hub for parents and families, with regular free gigs, workshops and talks. Word-of-mouth success has followed and seen the owners garlanded with a string of accolades and awards.

Charlotte launched the business when her youngest child was just one – and in the same year scooped Mumpreneur of the Year at the Kent Women in Business awards. Last year the shop achieved runner-up in the High Street Shop category of the Holly Tucker National Independent Awards.

Such success has emboldened the Khans to seek to expand when so many are feeling the pinch.

“We know it’s a huge risk in the current climate but we are optimistic and hope we can make it work.

“We have a great community of loyal customers in Folkestone and we hope we can reach more people in Canterbury who like what we offer too. We couldn’t be more excited.”