Babies Online is a parenting portal that looks at everything parents needs to know from the moment their children are born until they reach school-going age. In 2008, the company added a retail element with stores stocking an exclusive range of safety equipment, clothing, quality furniture, educational products and books. After opening two stores, founders Kobus and Gerda Venter embarked on a national expansion programme. They decided on franchising to ensure the personal involvement of their franchisees. Potential customers who are drawn to the parenting website will then be told about the retail stores in their area. Products will also soon be available online.