A Resolution or Two

It's amazing how 1 day can make such a difference.

On 31 December, you're looking back at the year behind you, still recovering from the Christmas festivities.

One day later, you feel lighter already (despite the possible hangover), looking ahead at the 366 days still to be filled - dreaming about all the options ahead, with a healthy dose of enthusiasm. Well, at least we do.

How optimistic are you about 2012?

If you believe the world's media, the current outlook seems less encouraging, with many leading economists predicting further recession in 2012.

We often remind ourselves we started Millican in a recession and we've been lucky enough to do very well despite the recession. Microsoft launched in a recession too apparently, so there's clearly hope!

And hope leads to dreams and resolutions.

Our main resolution for 2012 is to get out there more often. "Out there" is on our doorstep after all, literally. And being a tad busy can't be an excuse, can it ...?  Cycling, hiking and BBQ's by the lake (when the weather clears) need to become the order of the day this year.

Another one is to get organised for the Epping Ride in May, from Epping Forest back to Millican Dalton's cave in Borrowdale.  That'll be a ride an a half to look forward to - keep your eyes peeled on our Facebook page for this one.

And then there are the many product resolutions for 2012.

Dave the Rucksack will make his debut in Antique Bronze this Spring, a new Grey Blue colour will be introduced in Matthew, Mark, Rob, Harry and Joe this Summer, followed by an exciting new collection of felt wool protective covers for phones, iPads, laptops and cameras.

The Epping Ride will also be used as a test-bed for another brand-new collection for 2013 - if we'd tell you more now, we'd have to shoot you unfortunately, so we'll come back to that later in the year!

In the summer, we're launching our first collaboration, with British menswear label Universal Works. Four new canvas bags to fit alongside the Universal Works clothing collection for Winter 2012, and equally at home alongside our regular Millican bags. More on this to follow soon.

Other collaborations are in the pipeline for later this year and 2013, whilst the sampling team is busy with our first wheeled luggage, some new shoulder bags and another overnight bag.

That'll keep us busy ...

So what are your resolutions for the new year?  If any involve cycling, check out the London Cycle Blog for some inspiration.

Here's to a healthy, active and vibrant 2012 ...