MEET THE COAST KEI
From Japan to the South Coast
We imported our very own Suzuki Carry Kei truck from Japan with one slightly unusual idea in mind: to transform it into a tiny shop on wheels.
“Kei” means “light” in Japanese, and Kei trucks are compact utility vehicles designed to navigate narrow streets and tackle practical jobs without taking up much space. Ours may be small, but it can carry a surprisingly large amount of beach-day fun.
After making the journey from Japan to our home in Woonona, the little truck was ready for its Coast Kids makeover.
The conversion
We converted the truck’s original tray into a custom mobile store, complete with a canopy, product shelving and storage.
The exterior was finished in our signature coastal colours and branded with the Coast Kids logo, creating a tiny shop that feels every bit as bright, playful and nostalgic as our products. It now carries a colourful collection of our kids’ beach and outdoor essentials - including packable beach toys, hats, towels, kites, dive toys and plenty more.
Why a tiny truck?
Coast Kids has been creating beach and outdoor products since 2021, with our range now stocked by more than 160 retailers around the world.
But as a small business based on the NSW South Coast, we wanted a fun way to get out from behind the screen, meet more local families and take Coast Kids directly to the places our products are made for.
Do we know exactly what we’re doing with a tiny Japanese truck? Not entirely. But we do know it makes us smile - and we hope it makes you smile too.
You’ll find the Coast Kei popping up at beaches, markets, community events and special activations around Wollongong and beyond. If you spot us on the road, give us a wave. If we’re parked up, come and say hello, explore the range and shop directly from our little store on wheels.
A tiny Japanese truck turned travelling Coast Kids shop.
Where we’ll be next?
Next stop:
Shellharbour Stand-Up Paddle Board Festival
Date:
Sunday, November 1, 2026
Time:
7am - 2pm
Where:
Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra
Follow us on Instagram at @coastkids.shop for new locations, pop-up announcements and any weather-related changes.
Want the Coast Kei at your event?
The Coast Kei is available for selected markets, community events, brand collaborations and family-friendly activations across the Illawarra and surrounding areas.
Get in touch at info@coastkids.shop to tell us about your event.
