The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2011 Innovation Awards Competition. Internationally recognized, the Innovation Awards highlight some of the most exciting new products in the marketplace today. More than 125 cutting edge products were entered, and 10 winners were selected.
The 2011 Innovation Award Winners are:
5 Phases has developed a baby bottle with the healthful benefit of glass but the dependability of plastic. The unique design helps glass resist shattering but will contain the glass if shattering occurs. The clear plastic sleeve allows you to fully view the contents of the bottle making it easier for mixing formulas. www.5phases.com
The City Versa is a lightweight, easy to maneuver stroller that offers parents the versatility to stroll with their baby facing them or facing the world. Baby Jogger’s patented Quick-Fold Technology has been incorporated so that parents can fold their stroller with one hand no matter what direction the seat is facing to a compact 8.5 inch width. www.babyjogger.com
BubbleBum is the world’s first inflatable car booster seat. This innovative product inflates easily for use and deflates for storage and ease of portability, making it the most compact car booster seat on the market. www.bubblebum.us
The Bugaboo Donkey is an impressive innovation combining the need of a mono/duo stroller and ability to carry more goods for parents. Through smart design in three easy clicks, the stroller can be converted from a full sized mono to a full size duo without compromising luggage space. Even in full duo position, the stroller is still compact and offers: smooth ride, flexible storage space, multi-terrain, one-handed reclineable seat(s), reversible seat(s), one piece fold & self standing, and height adjustable handlebar. www.bugaboo.com
Magnificent Baby’s union suit, closes using a Smart Close easy-to-use magnetic-fastener. No snaps or buttons. Not only does it help get baby warmer faster, but it’s especially helpful for parents during those dreaded night changing’s. Plus, grandparents who don’t have the dexterity for snaps or buttons can now bond with baby. www.magnificentbaby.com
With a sit-down potty, removable seat to use on a standard toilet and step-stool, this 3-in-1 potty features a disposable Arm & Hammer™ deodorizing disk and built-in flushable wipes. These never-before-seen potty extras address parents’ concerns for sanitation and odor control. www.munchkin.com
Every parent needs a free hand, especially during a diaper change. A simple press opens the dispenser and a weighted plate with a wide opening allows for quick, one-handed removal of wipes while keeping the rest of the pile in place. A silicone gasket seals in freshness, ensuring wipes stay moist and gentle. www.oxo.com
The freerider is an ingenious design – a simple concept, offering dual functionality that transforms from a stroller board into a scooter within seconds. Two features making this possible: Connectors: attachment system that fastens the board to the rear axel of the stroller; and 2-mode rear wheel: allows easy transition from stroller board to scooter. http://philandteds.com
The 10 gallon storage compartment is a parents’ gear carrying lifesaver. The second compartment holds baby’s overnight ideal home away from home. The safety certified flat packing bassinet has a sturdy, ventilated base, a firm foam mattress and sets up in under 10 seconds! http://philandteds.com
Features a Smart Screen technology. Located on the base of the car seat, the digital screen walks you through a 3 simple step process leaving you with a green smiley face letting you know when you’ve installed the car seat correctly. www.summerinfant.com
Products are evaluated and judged on their innovation, marketability, trend-setting potential, appeal and usefulness. Special thanks go to the selection committee of trade media representatives and retail buyers:
Paul Banas, Pregnancy Magazine.com Nanci Gregg, Baby & Children's Product News
Jamie Grayson, thebabyguynyc.com Eli Gurock, Magic Beans
Sheri Gurock, Magic Beans Jane Kitchen, Kids Today
Tanya Meritte, Kids Today Alison Rhodes, The Safety Mom
"Being selected as a judge for the JPMA Innovation Awards was an honor because I take my job very seriously,” commented Jamie Grayson, of thebabyguynyc.com. “Yes, I have a bit of fun, but I hope that all the judges and manufacturers realize the impact this award can have on a product once it hits the marketplace.”
The Innovation Awards Competition started in 1989 as the Most Innovative Product Contest and has evolved through the years to a highly recognized competition. It was officially named the “Show Off” Product Competition in 1992, however in 2003 JPMA renamed the contest to the Innovation Awards to more accurately represent the focus on innovation.
