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21 August 24

Interview Susan (Export Manager)

 

Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Susan, 37 years old, mom of two kids (teenagers) Aaron (14) and Nora (12), and I live in Zuidlaren. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends. I’m also often found on the soccer field as a volunteer and soccer mom since both my children play soccer. On top of that, I still play soccer myself.

How long have you been working at Jollein?
I have been working at Jollein as an export manager for a year now. Initially, I only handled customers abroad, but for a few months now, I’ve also been visiting Dutch stores in several regions. It’s so nice to see how our items are lovingly presented in physical stores.

How would you describe Jollein?
It’s a wonderful company; we have such beautiful collections. Besides that, we have a great work atmosphere and fun colleagues. It’s really a family business from the past, and you can feel that in the workplace vibe. It’s very approachable and all colleagues collaborate well. We’re all involved in the successes and challenges the company goes through. I would also say that we develop really high-quality collections that are always completely on-trend. I’m super proud of that!

What’s the best thing you’ve experienced at Jollein?
There are plenty of great things, but I really enjoy filming the collection videos. We do this every year. A videographer comes to the office and we record the video in the showroom. The video explains all the new products we are going to launch in the upcoming collection. I do this together with a sales colleague, and what you don’t see in the video is actually the best part — especially in the beginning, we have lots of bloopers. We mess up, forget the name of a product, or completely blank out. Because we record the video in English, switching languages can be tricky sometimes. Maybe it would be fun to release a blooper edition so everyone can enjoy it! Want to see the collection video? Check the image bank.

What do you find most special about the contact with your customers?
For me, it’s very interesting to see the different cultures. I always find it funny how tastes and styles can vary so much around the world. It’s also great to speak with everyone via Teams and show the collections. My customers really share my passion. I proudly tell them about our beautiful items and explain how it works if you want to become a Jollein dealer. We are constantly working to make this process even easier. That’s a nice challenge. I’m also always busy sorting out all the paperwork to make it possible to supply all the countries that sign up as Jollein customers.

How many hours per week do you spend in the car?
Until recently, I worked fully from the office. This was because I was mainly export manager for all customers outside the Benelux and France. For them, I give presentations in the showroom via Zoom meetings to show our collection and answer all questions. It’s funny how, due to the time difference, I sometimes have calls at the strangest hours to provide our customers worldwide with all the info. Recently, I’ve also taken on several regions in the Netherlands. I really like that because it gives me face-to-face contact with my customers. I spend about 8 to 10 hours per week driving, usually one day a week. Of course, I also attend foreign trade fairs for which I happily travel many kilometers. That way, I can really connect with customers!

What do you like to listen to on the road? Radio, music, or podcasts?
To make the time on the road fun, I prefer listening to my own Spotify playlist. Every Sunday evening I update this list with the newest releases. And with two teenagers in the house, I’m always totally up-to-date on music, which is ideal! My favorite music is TOP 40 and dance; Kygo, David Guetta, and Tiësto are my favorite DJs, so I sing along a lot in the car.

What is your favorite item from the new collection?
I really love the Dreamy Mouse collection. You can clearly see so much love and attention went into it. Every time I look at it, I notice new details in the design. Besides the print, the items in the collection are, as I’m used to from Jollein, very soft and cuddly. That’s exactly what you want for your baby, right? I also really like the Puffed Bag. Of course, I immediately got one as soon as it rolled off the container and was available for us to order. I always get a lot of questions about it. It has all the features of a real diaper bag with plenty of pockets and all the accessories a new mom needs, but it looks like a bag you can also just take along when going out with friends or to the city. Even my daughter likes to borrow it.

From our journal

  • The cutest Jollein Toys for babies from 0 to 1 year

    The cutest Jollein Toys for babies from 0 to 1 year

    A baby’s first year is a time full of growth and wonder. Every day, your little one learns something new: reaching, rolling, listening, looking, and feeling. The right toys can make this journey of discovery safe, fun, and stimulating. At Jollein, you’ll find toys perfectly suited to this special stage. The collection combines soft materials, calming colors, and clever designs that support your baby’s development. Playtime becomes not only enjoyable but also a meaningful moment of bonding and exploration. Discover the cutest gifts for your little one or the perfect present for a newborn! Safety and Materials Jollein toys are designed with little hands in mind. Every item is made from safe, high-quality materials that feel pleasant to touch. The soft colors and natural fabrics fit perfectly into any nursery and bring a sense of calm to daily play and learning moments. What makes these toys even more special is that they grow with your baby. From the first weeks when your little one mostly observes and listens, to the stage of grabbing, rolling, and exploring – Jollein offers something appropriate for every phase. Pacifier cloths Pacifier cloths are often a baby’s very first favorite companions. They provide comfort, familiarity, and security and can be taken everywhere: in the crib, on the couch, or on walks in the stroller. Jollein comfort blankets are made from soft materials like teddy fabric and velour, perfect for snuggling and holding close. Many designs also include small tags, buttons, or rattles that stimulate the senses and help develop fine motor skills. How cute is the Little Star Pacifier cloth? Rattles Around three months, babies discover that they can grasp and move objects. A rattle is the perfect toy at this stage: lightweight, easy to hold, and with a gentle sound that sparks curiosity. Recently, wrist and foot rattles have also become available. These little rattles attach to your baby’s arms or legs, so every movement creates a soft sound. This makes everyday motions even more fun and engaging while your baby spends hours exploring touch and sound. They help develop fine motor skills, hearing, and hand-eye coordination in a playful way, keeping your little one active and entertained. Baby Gyms and Activity Cubes A baby gym is an essential for the first months. Your baby lies underneath, looks up, and reaches for the soft hanging toys. This naturally stimulates motor skills and coordination. Jollein offers various baby gym toys that can be attached to the gym – from cute animals to soft rattles. Which one is your favorite? Later in the first year, an activity cube is a wonderful next step: a block full of textures, shapes, and sounds that keeps your baby engaged and learning. The Animal Friends Activity Cube is a perfect example – educational, safe, and fun for the second half of the first year. Baby Mobiles A baby mobile brings calm and fascination to the nursery. The moving figures capture attention and stimulate vision, while the gentle rotation has a soothing effect. Hang it above the crib or playpen for a quiet moment in between activities. Jollein baby mobiles are real eye-catchers in the nursery and look adorable under a mosquito net. Teething Rings Around four to six months, the first teeth often start to appear. This can be uncomfortable for your baby, but a teething ring can help relieve the discomfort. Jollein teething rings are made from safe materials such as soft silicone or natural rubber, allowing your little one to chew and explore safely. They support both teething and the development of hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Our Favorites for Babies from 0 to 12 Months Baby Gym – Natural Wood: stimulates movement and curiosity from the very first weeks. Choose from the cutest baby gym toys! Baby Mobile – Teddy Bear: soft and calming, perfect above the crib. Wrist Rattle – Tiny Park: your little one’s new favorite friend always within reach! Comfort Blanket – Elephant Tales: provides comfort and familiarity anywhere you go. Activity Cube – Animal Friends: engaging and educational, perfect for the second half of the first year. The first year flies by, but the memories of all those little discoveries will last forever. With Jollein toys, you give your baby the chance to grow, learn, and enjoy in a safe, calm, and loving environment. Discover the complete range and be inspired by the most delightful toys for the very youngest.
  • Discover the best gifts for toddlers (1–2 Years)

    Discover the best gifts for toddlers (1–2 Years)

    After that magical first year, your baby is turning into a curious little explorer. Between 12 and 24 months, toddlers become more mobile, independent, and eager to discover the world around them. They’re walking, talking, stacking, building, and imitating everything they see. The right toys make these new adventures even more exciting — and help your child develop essential skills in a fun, safe way. At Jollein, you’ll find thoughtful toys and gifts that support your toddler’s growth while fitting beautifully into your home. Soft textures, natural tones, and clever designs make every item both stylish and practical. Whether you’re looking for a birthday gift, a “just because” surprise, or a new favorite playtime essential — we’ve got you covered. Stacking Toys Around this age, toddlers love to build (and knock down!) towers.  Stacking toys are perfect for little hands still learning about balance and coordination. They help develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving — all while keeping playtime safe. Time for your little one to stack and play! This wooden stacking tower features three adorable jungle animals — a caramel Giraffe, ash green Crocodile, and biscuit-colored Cheetah. The colorful blocks help your child learn shapes and colors while developing fine motor skills. Made from 100% FSC-certified wood, it’s safe, durable, and fun to look at! Cuddly Dolls & Soft Toys Imaginative play starts here. Around 18 months, toddlers begin to form emotional connections with their favorite stuffed friends. A soft doll or cuddly toy can quickly become a loyal companion for naps, car rides, and adventures. Jollein’s plush toys — like the Knight Duke, Lady Lynn, or the Elephant — are made from ultra-soft materials and designed to comfort and inspire. They’re not just toys; they’re friends your little one will cherish for years. Wooden Pull-Along Toys Walking becomes a true joy when there’s a little friend to pull along! Race cars encourage movement, balance, and coordination — ideal for toddlers who are just finding their rhythm. The Jollein Wooden Animals on wheels come in charming shapes like elephants or bears, crafted from smooth, natural wood. Their minimalist design and neutral tones make them both a beautiful and functional gift. Or get ready for endless fun with this amazing wooden race track, perfect for your little adventurer! Watch the four cheerful cars zoom down the track again and again — pure excitement from start to finish. Part of our On the Go theme, this toy keeps your mini (and friends) entertained for hours. A beautiful and timeless gift for any occasion — even as a newborn present! Mealtime Essentials as Gifts Between one and two, mealtimes become little adventures too. Giving your toddler their own silicone tableware set — with a bowl, spoon, and cup — helps foster independence. The Jollein Silicone Dinner Set is safe, flexible, and oh-so-practical. With soft pastel colors and easy-to-clean material, it’s a stylish and thoughtful gift that parents will love just as much as little ones. Our Favorites for 1–2 Year Olds Stuffed Animal – Elephant: a soft buddy for every adventure. Wooden shape sorter - Jungle Jambo: Let your little one bring all the jungle animals together in this fun wooden house and enjoy hours of fun Wooden race track, perfect for your little adventurer! Watch the four cheerful cars zoom down the track again and again. Kids dinner set 4 pieces: practical, safe, and beautiful for everyday use. Your toddler’s world grows bigger every day — and with Jollein toys, each discovery feels calm, cozy, and full of wonder.From their very first steps to their first words, Jollein helps make every moment of growth feel soft, stylish, and full of love. Explore the full Jollein toy collection and find the perfect gift for your little explorer.
  • A throne of their own! The kids beanbag for your mini-me

    A throne of their own! The kids beanbag for your mini-me

    From reading a first book by themselves to cosily watching a movie: their own kids beanbag is a perfect comfy spot. Read why this soft item in teddy or corduroy is a must-have in your interior! 
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