YF

Young, Wild & Friedman

www.youngwildandfriedman.com link_icon

Young, Wild & Friedman



Overview


Young, Wild & Friedman specializes in creating high-quality sensory play kits and related products aimed at children. Founded in 2016 by Julie Friedman, the company is known for its all-natural sensory dough and engaging sensory kits. The business emerged from Julie's efforts to support her daughter in overcoming speech and learning disorders, and has grown substantially into a beloved brand among families.

Products


The company offers a variety of sensory-based products, including but not limited to:
  • Sensory Kits: Various themed kits such as Rainbow Unicorn, Space, Mermaid, Dino, BFF, Dump Truck, Gardening, and more. Prices for these kits typically start at $39.00.

  • Mini Kits: Smaller versions of sensory kits priced around $15.00.

  • Sensory Bins: Themed bins like Pet, Unicorn, Mermaid, and Dino Excavation priced at $34.00.

  • Sensory Dough and Refills: Including gluten-free options and various small sensory dough jars priced between $6.00 to $8.00.

  • Slime: Different creative slime variants priced at $10.00 each.

  • Subscriptions: Monthly kit subscriptions available, ranging from $35.00 to $39.00 depending on the theme.


Key Personnel


Julie Friedman - Chief Executive Officer


  • Background: Julie Friedman, also known as "The Playdough Lady," resides in Houston, Texas with her husband, Kerr, and their four children.

  • Role: As the founder and CEO, Julie oversees the company's operations and has been instrumental in its launch and growth.

  • Social Media Presence: Active on Instagram with over 236K followers, sharing updates and behind-the-scenes content of her products and family life.


Camille Matzke - Marketing Manager


  • Experience: Camille holds a degree from Texas A&M University and has a wide-ranging experience in marketing and customer success.

  • Role: Manages the marketing efforts for Young, Wild & Friedman, focusing on customer engagement and brand development.

  • Location: Based in Lake Jackson, Texas.


Ailee Petrovic - Creative Director and Product Development Manager


  • Experience: Graduated from The University of Texas at Austin, Ailee has over 500+ connections on LinkedIn and a strong background in creative direction and photography.

  • Role: Responsible for the company's creative strategies and product development.

  • Location: Austin, Texas.


Digital Presence



  • LinkedIn: The company maintains a LinkedIn profile highlighting its mission and team members.

  • Facebook: Active profile with 58,599 likes and regular engagement from their community.


Contact Information


  • Customer Support Email: [julie@youngwildandfriedman.com](mailto:julie@youngwildandfriedman.com)

  • Mailing Address: 1811 West Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston, Texas.


Insights


The growing popularity of Young, Wild & Friedman can be attributed to its focus on the developmental benefits of sensory play, an area increasingly recognized by parents and educators alike. The ongoing success of their subscription models indicates a strong, recurring customer base. The company's significant social media presence, particularly on Instagram, underscores their ability to connect with a broader audience effectively.

Opportunities


Given the company's established market presence and customer loyalty, there may be opportunities for partnerships or collaborations that could expand their product line or enhance brand recognition. Their commitment to using all-natural ingredients presents a notable selling point in a market increasingly focused on health and safety standards for children’s products.

Competitor Profile



Overview


Young, Wild & Friedman faces competition from several companies in the sensory kit market. Their product range focuses on screen-free sensory play, utilizing all-natural sensory dough. Established by Julie Friedman in 2016, the company is based in Houston, Texas.

Key Competitors


1. Present Not Perfect
  • Combines social-emotional learning with sensory play.

  • Products include various themed sensory kits, seasonal kits, and subscription options.



2. Mama of Joy Sensory Play
  • Offers full-size and mini-sensory bins, and a variety of themed sensory bins meant to engage children deeply.



3. Carter Kits
  • Specialized in sensory bags designed initially for first responders but now extended to broader use.



4. Sensory Gems
  • Focuses on imaginative and engaging sensory kits with an emphasis on independent play over screen time.



5. Playful Little Minds
  • Provides a range of sensory kits designed for educational and fun sensory play.



Market and Position


Young, Wild & Friedman operates within a niche market of educational and therapeutic sensory play for kids. Their emphasis on natural, non-toxic materials, and the combination of sensory stimulation with creative play, places them favorably in the market. Customer feedback highlights satisfaction with the product quality and thematic variations, showing a strong loyalty and repeat purchase behavior.

Analysis


  • Strengths: Strong brand identity based on the founder’s personal story, high-quality and diverse product range, and substantial social media following.

  • Weaknesses: High competition with similar product offerings, potentially diluting market share.

  • Opportunities: Pursuing B2B opportunities with schools and therapy centers could provide a new revenue stream.

  • Threats: Aggressive competition from existing and emerging players in the market.


Import Data


Young, Wild & Friedman imports its products primarily from:
  • Ningbo Quinn Crafts Co Ltd (8 shipments)

  • NINGBO PARAMONT IMPORT EXPORT

  • YIWU BIYAN E COMMERCE CO LTD