The retailer offers unique and independent items from arts and crafts to toys from across the globe.

Online retailer, Loubilou is "well on the way" to becoming the "largest marketplace for independent children's goods on the planet," only nine months after its initial launch.

The retailer – offering products ranging from arts and craft supplies to children's books, clothing and party supplies – is now encouraging sellers, partners and investors from around the world to get on board as it looks to accelerate its growth.

Having recently "opened its doors to the world" with the launch of its global currency support feature, the online merchant has already attracted 'a lot of very encouraging positive attention.'

LoubiLou now aims to showcase over 1,500 sellers and 20,000 unique items by the end of the year, setting it on its way to achieve its "larger goal of becoming the largest marketplace for independent children's goods on the planet."

Heath Kane, LoubiLou CEO, told ToyNews: "The reaction from suppliers and customers has been tremendous. They both appreciate our vision to champion small businesses across the world and offer an alternative source for children's goods.

"This year is simply about growth. Now that we have opened our doors to the world, we are looking to take advantage of netting a wider selection of items from sellers around the world, and growing global awareness of our brand among consumers worldwide."

The firm is now seeing merchants and sellers sign up from all over the globe, including areas it did not initially expect to see on board.

"We are seeing an influx of international sellers from all parts of the world," continued Kane, "even parts of the world where we didn't think we had any penetration, such as Mexico, Latvia, Brazil and Malaysia."

However, despite the apparent globalisation of the site, Kane has not forgotten the importance of the local market to its plethora of sellers and customers.

"We have been especially interested to see new seller using Loubilou just to sell within their own countries, rather than using the site as a global platform," he added.

"We wanted to create an online marketplace that would support independent merchants selling original children's goods and support parent and friends who want to encourage individuality. Loubilou is the result of this work."