Melissa & Doug is to part ways with UK distribution partner DKB Toys & Distribution, with OSS taking over the independent customer base for the wooden toy brand.

Melissa & Doug said the revision to its sales strategy for independent customers will be effective from 1st January 2023, with sales into this market sector being handled by OSS, which will add the Melissa & Doug range to its existing portfolio.

Commenting on the strategy, Jeremy Robinson, Sales director UK & Northern Europe, Melissa & Doug, said: “We are grateful for the efforts and achievements which Chris Lohmeyer and the entire DKB team have delivered in our time working together. The decision to part ways now allows both parties to focus more on their respective business objectives, and continue to deliver growth across the UK independent market.

He added: “Our new structure will allow us to further build our presence and customer base in the independent channel, and we look forward to updating both existing and new customers with our exciting new range developments as we head into 2023.

“OSS has a proven track record and we look forward to working with its entire agent team to build on the existing support we have and develop our business further.”

Jeremy said all customers will be contacted individually with further details of their respective sales contacts, and Melissa & Doug looked forward to welcoming its retail partners to stand E21 at London Toy Fair in January, 2023.