Our History

Innovation and creativity is the key!

KidzSmart began just over 10 years ago when an office was opened in Canada.

Inspired to do something better after waiting for a meal with his two young boys with only the condiments for distraction, KidzSmart founder, Dennis O'Brien responded to the demand for high quality activities for children in the restaurant sector.

Together with his neighbour Ernie, a lifetime illustrator with Disney and Looney Tunes experience, they decided to develop some vibrant, fun-filled kids placemat designs and see if there was any interest in a product that would keep kids of all ages seated and entertained as well as promote the restaurant's brand and dining experience…within months they had printed their first customised placemat order.

As the market matured the hospitality sector recognised the value of attracting and retaining business in a competitive sector through the engagement and entertainment of children. As a leader in innovation, KidzSmart benefited and grew as clients have made larger investments commensurate with the return they received through implemented programmes that differentiate them from their competitors

To reflect this growth in size and capabilities the UK office of KidzSmart was opened in 2005, headed by Jean Power a longstanding friend of Dennis. Having worked in marketing and advertising for over 20 years working with many national and multi-national companies she decided it was time to take the plunge and start up her own kids marketing agency. The UK business has developed with a range of leading companies across the following business sectors: hospitality, food, retail, education, charities and government.

KidzSmart UK have established a highly experienced creative team, focused on managing and delivering unique kids art, unique kids characters, unique kids activities and unique kids communications for every client. Always maximising the branding and activity level through what we call our 'more fun per square inch' philosophy.