Carol Middleton Takes Party Pieces to the U.S. with a Splash

In an exciting move, Carol Middleton, the mother of Kate Middleton, has officially launched her party supply business, Party Pieces, in the United States.

To kick off this new venture, she even brought along a life-sized cardboard cut-out of herself dressed in a trendy double denim outfit.

This playful marketing tactic certainly grabs attention and sets the tone for what Party Pieces is all about.

Founded back in 1987, Party Pieces was born out of Carol's quest for unique ideas for her daughter's fifth birthday celebration.

Spotting a gap in the market, she set out to create a company that would help busy parents throw imaginative parties without the hassle.

Fast forward to today, and the brand has become synonymous with festive fun, offering everything from colorful plates and napkins to balloons and treat stands.

Based in Utendon, Berkshire, Party Pieces has grown significantly over the years.

The company currently employs around 40 people and boasts a staggering output of 4,000 orders each week.

It's worth noting that all three of Carol's children have contributed to the business at different stages, with Kate playing a role in developing the initial birthday and baby product categories.

Reflecting on the early days, Carol recalls how hands-on they had to be.

She often enlisted her children to help with various tasks, like taking orders and packing boxes.

It was a family affair, filled with hard work and creativity.

Now, with a successful launch in the U.S., Party Pieces is stepping into a new chapter.

For the first time, their products are being sold across the Atlantic.

Carol recently toured several stores to see her offerings displayed alongside those cheeky cardboard cut-outs.

This marks the brand's inaugural retail partnership outside the UK, signaling a broader expansion strategy in the American market, as shared on their official Instagram account.

Last year, Party Pieces made waves in the UK with a successful e-commerce launch, quickly becoming a best-seller.

However, it hasn't all been smooth sailing; the company reported a significant loss of nearly £300,000 in 2021.

Despite these financial hurdles, the team remains optimistic about their future.

The U.S. launch will see Party Pieces available in 39 Saker ShopRites stores, a well-known family-owned retailer in New Jersey.

Carol expressed her excitement about this partnership, emphasizing the commitment Saker ShopRites has to its customers and the community.

It's a match made in party heaven.

Richard Saker, President and CEO of Saker ShopRites, echoed Carol's enthusiasm, stating that they are thrilled to be the first U.S. retail partner for this cherished British brand.