A blog penned by an angry Japanese mother in which she complains about having to quit her job due to the shortage in places at daycare centres recently went viral. And it’s led to an outcry for more childcare services from the government. But why is daycare such a big deal to parents in Japan?

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most stressful – albeit cherished – moments. With Brits spending an average of £1,619 to prepare for a baby, some mums are buying on their smartphones at all hours. But how do new mothers really like to shop? And which brands are meeting their needs?

New mums are older than they’ve ever been. They’re also better off. With the 2.4 kids standard fading, are today’s babies being born into a lap of luxury where only the best will do? If so, how can brands align with this quality-not-quantity approach to family life?

Financially-empowered mums have become the driving force behind India’s $12 billion baby care industry. Specialist retailers have now set up shop promising to better serve this segment with improved prices and convenience. But will this be enough to win the hearts and minds of these shoppers?