For Samantha Firestone, founder and CEO of Little Nest, an Australian firm that produces mini versions of classic modernist furnishings, it's as much about appealing to kids as adults.

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Another firm, Noritsu Koki, supplies half the mini-photo processing labs used in camera shops and kiosks around the world.

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"They have responded to the call of the Mini, " says Rebecca Lindland , an analyst at forecasting firm Global Insight.

FORBES: Little Luxuries