Toys n Playthings

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01155 rryy 220 a a u u n n a JJa 4 o..4 No 43 N V Vooll.. 33

Includes Preview

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,130 5,195 11 July July 2013 2012 to to 30 30 June June 2014 2013

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CONTENTS PG 117 PG 7

Regular 15 ry 20 Janua No.4 3 Vol. 3

TEAM TnP

5

Leader – with Mirella Anstey

8

News – what’s the latest?

11

Quick Coffee Break with First Celtic Learning’s Jeremy Wilks

13

People News – the movers and shakers

14

Exhibition News – the latest from the trade show scene

16

Movie News – The latest from the silver screen

18

Media Charts – the latest from Global Media on TV viewing figures

19

Media News – the multimedia rundown

22

What’s New – new products you need to get your hands on

24

Toy Talk – the independent retailers have their say

184

Don’t Miss… – unmissable products for all buyers and retailers

186

Licensing News – the hottest news from the toy licensing industry

Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

Sales Manager Abi Gardner abi@lemapublishing.co.uk

PG 32

PG 188

202 Trade Talk – we give suppliers a chance to talk business 219

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Step Back in Time – a slice of toy history from the industry’s longest running magazine

Features

Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

Toy Fair 2015 - The road to Toy Fair begins with our in-depth show guide

188

Character Licensing – The hottest characters and brands from around the world

204 Ride-ons – This category never stays on shelves for very long!

PG 204

sales@cartamundi.co.uk +44 1268 511 522

MONOPOLY M ONO OPOLY OL LY © 193 LY 1935, 1935 35, 20 35 2014 014 Hasbro 0 Hasbro.

Hasb bro ro. All All Rights Rig ghts R Reserved.

Reserved ese e ed erved d

© 2014 Disney/Pixar

Managing Director

32

© 2014 Disney

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

© 20 014 0 14 Disney 2014

Production Director

NEW!

LONDO TOY F N A STANDIR GH58

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Wednesday 21st January, 11:30, Gallery Suite 1. In partnership with the British Toy & Hobby Association. Free attendance.

CONTENTS Special Report

15 ry 20 Janua No.4 3 Vol. 3

12

LEGO in London – The global leader celebrates the opening of its new London offices

21

Cover Story – MV Sports are on a roll with licensed and own brand wheeled toys for all

26

Retail Interview – TnP sat down to talk toys with John Lewis’ Head Toy Buyer, Ian Ellis

32

Introducing Science4You – the biggest toy company you may never have heard of

38

Chicco’s Top 20 – the company’s brass reveals their top 20 toys for 2015

212

Interview – The North American TIA’s Marian Bossard talks New York Toy Fair and more

215

Year in Review – TnP MD and Founder Malcolm Naish looks back at a jam-packed 2014

Lema Publishing Ltd 1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930

At the heart of retail A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,130 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

PG 12

PG 32

Columnists

PG 31

NEW

20

The Media Whisperer – Columnist Clive Crouch explores the changing TV landscape

29

Shop Talk – The New Year is a good excuse for change says John Ryan

30

The Independent – The Independent talks supply vs. demand

31

NEW – The Entertainer’s Founder, Gary Grant, joins TnP’s leading team of columnists. This month TnP joined him for a day’s trade in the Amersham store, where the story began

36

Business Driver – Former European head of Hasbro, John Harper on start-up success

185

Licensing Opinion – LIMA MD, Kelvyn Gardner wonders whether the ‘big next year’ promise ever rings true

211

TnP Ambassadors – Our ambassadors test the toys you stock on your shelves!

PG 212

Special Nuremberg Flip Show Guide Flip this issue over for our in-depth guide to the world’s biggest toy show

PG 38

toysnplaythings.co.uk 4

toysnplaythings.co.uk Helping everyone sell more

Products: Present Time, Burgon & Ball, J-Me, Suck UK, Present Time, Burgon & Ball

INSPIRING BUYING IN 2015 THE NEWEST PRODUCTS, INNOVATIONS AND TRENDS FROM OVER 3,000 EXHIBITORS. REGISTER FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY TICKET AT WWW.SPRINGFAIR.COM/PLAYTHINGS

LEADER

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superb licenced toys and elcome to Team TnP’s bumper in fact their partnership London Toy Fair and Nuremberg with Disney has Fair edition. And of course, Mirella brought abut some very welcome to 2015!

Anstey innovative and beautiful products.

Most of us have returned from HK and are now To find out more about Chicco’s top finalising our diaries for the UK Toy industry’s 20 hero products turn to page 38. most important three days of the year – London Another high street hero is The Entertainer Toy Fair. Heading to Olympia is super-exciting – they are only a couple shy of 100 stores time for my team and I. Not least because nationally! The MD and Founder, Gary Grant Malcolm Naish, our MD and Founder is attending A member of the Audit has joined Team TnP as an exclusive regular his 50th Toy Fair, quite an achievement, I’m sure Bureau of Circulation columnist. Gary will be telling us about trends, you’ll agree, but because once again we are set Independently audited new initiatives and also about some of the to see some fantastic products, learn about some ABC circulation of 5,195 challenges facing high street toy retailers great consumer-focused initiative, have a right 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013 nowadays. Have a read of our introduction to our old good time to boot, as well as producing the new man on page 31. much-loved and respected daily newspaper, Science4you may be a name familiar to you created live on-site!

But before getting on the train to London, take because TnP’s John Harper is mentoring the Portuguese company and has made mention of time to familiarise yourself with the companies it in his columns recently (see page 36 for his and what they have to offer during those jamlatest). So, we caught up with Miguel, the founder packed three days. Our show guide begins on and MD, as well as page 42 but even before you reach that top Mike Barratt (who quality guide to the exhibition we have plenty is handling sales for we have a lot for you to read!

PUBLISHING the company here So, John Lewis of changes that we in the UK) to find is a bastion of are very much out a little more our high street, looking forward to about the key drivers and let’s face it, and differences in they do what they making which will the brand. We also do pretty well, don’t bring you an even asked a number they? Their toy bolder and brighter Also published by of questions from offering has really experience retailers about what been ramped up Lema Science4you can and consumers Publishing offer them. If you are responding W O R L D W I D E want to know about a brand that can give you terrifically well. We smashing margins then read our feature on page chatted to Ian Ellis, 32. toy buyer for the MV sports are one of our cover stars this month. department store, MV Sports Disney MV define quality in the wheeled goods category. to get a handle on Princess Bike They have recently signed a huge deal with what has changed, Disney for the Disney Princess, Cars and Planes what customers are franchises. Exciting times are afoot for MV – learn looking for and what the John Lewis vision is for more about their plans for this year on page 21.

2015 and beyond!

And finally, Malcolm Naish takes a look back at We also get a sneak peak at what Chicco is exhibiting at the show – they have a slew of really the year that was 2014 and looks at the (mainly) highs but (occasional) lows that the toy trade experiences last year. Here at TnP, we are all looking forward to a very exciting and energised 2015 – we have a lot of changes that we are very much looking forward to making which will bring you an even bolder and brighter experience. Needless to say, watch this space, or perhaps I should say, what our London Toy Fair stand to get on board INTERNATIONAL with what TnP uniquely will offer you this year!All the best for 2015 and see PICTURE you at Olympia - and BUSINESS look out for our daily newespaper!

TnP’s new columnist, The Entertainer MD, Peter Jones Gary Grant If you would like to subscribe to any of our other market leading titles please call Robert Thomas on 01442 289930 or email your request to robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

At the heart of retail

licensing T O D A Y

magazine

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Featuring FRAMING BUSINESS

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NEWS

The new faces of HTI HTI has a new UK Managing Director, Paul Bennett, who brings with him a wealth of experience in the toy industry gained at LeapFrog and Little Tikes, latterly as Vice President International, as well as outside the industry at Fox Entertainment.

Joining him is a whole host of new faces and talent. Jenny Watson joins in the role of Global Marketing Director. With extensive general business experience, Jenny joins from Mattel where she held the position of Marketing Director – Core Europe.

The HTI marketing team has been further bolstered with a number of new appointments. Richard Venner joins the company as Senior Brand Manager – Boys Toys, from Vivid. Justin Clasby and Neil Martin have joined the company recently as Brand Manager for Pre-school Toys and Assistant Brand Manager respectively.

The HTI sales teams welcomes Andrew Reynolds and Mark Hyndman, who join as Senior National Account Managers, and Graham Morley has been appointed as HTI Field Sales Manager.

Lastly, Claire Long has been appointed for a 12-month period to support all areas of HTI’s business on project work to assist during this transformative period. Claire brings a wealth of business knowledge and expertise following a successful career with companies such as LEGO and Hasbro Chris Spalding, HTI Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am delighted to welcome all of these new appointments to HTI, each of whom bring the skills and experience to complement the company’s existing strong team. HTI is investing in great people that will assist the company in its dynamic growth strategy to take HTI to the next level.” Pictured: Paul Bennett

BANDAI’S THE NEW HOME OF MONCHHICHI Brand owner Sekiguchi Co Ltd has appointed Bandai to distribute Monchhichi in the UK. First introduced by creator Mr K Sekiguchi back in 1974, Monchhichi has been a household name for three generations and continues to be a positive and aspirational companion for children across the world. Bandai will launch a new collection of Monchhichi characters in March, supporting the classic brand with beautiful display material, in-store activity, and a PR campaign driven by social media to seek out new fans and touch on the nostalgic appeal.

“We are looking forward to working with Bandai and believe they are the perfect partner to help build greater brand awareness for Monchhichi and improve our distribution in the UK,” said Christophe Millet, Sales & Marketing Manager at Sekiguchi. Vicki Elmer, Bandai’s Product Manager for Monchhichi added: “We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to welcome such an iconic character into our brand portfolio for 2015.” See the Mochhichi launch range at Toy Fair and Spring Fair.

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Rubie’s Masquerade acquires Bristol Novelty Bristol Novelty has joined the Rubie’s family of companies, the directors of both firms confirmed recently.

Rubie’s Vice-President EMEA & Australia, Chris Isitt said the company was “thrilled” to be able to welcome Bristol Novelty into the fold. “It is a strong, independent and profitable business with the potential for considerable further growth, and an ideal complement to our existing licensed business in Europe,” he said.

“We are also delighted that both Chris and Kevin Bater have committed to the new structure for the next few years. Their immense contribution to the Bristol Novelty business over the last 30 years has been the foundation of the company’s success. We look forward to working with them and their excellent team to expand the product line and distribution channels for 2015,” he added.

Chris and Kevin Bater, joint Bristol Novelty Managing Directors, confirmed that the new Bristol Novelty has exciting expansion plans, and is looking forward to taking advantage of the many brands available from the Rubie’s group and the opportunities presented by its European distribution base.

In for a penny...

Poundworld has kick started ambitious growth plans with an overhaul of its IT systems. The developments are part of an effort to double its current number of stores – 260 in total – over the next five years. Partnering with IT experts PCMS, the retailer began a 10-month programme of investment in its core business systems, including supply chain, automation and reporting, and point-of-sale. Initial investments will be focused on those systems that are consumer facing, using PCMS’ Vision BeanStore Point of Sale system. Backend and stock handling developments will come later.

Chris Edwards, Poundworld Co-Founder and Managing Director said: “As our business expands geographically, we also want to expand our technological capability and create a platform to help us grow and achieve greater economies of scale. We’re very excited about evolving our IT offer and seeing the benefits in terms of customer experience and estate management.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Little Tikes cleans up!

Little Tikes scooped nine congratulatory gold award wins, three silvers and two highly commended awards across five consumer and industry award programmes in just one month.

The Big Dog Truck took first place in the Preschool category at the first ever ToyTesters. tv Awards. It also received Gold for Best Preschool Toy at the Toy Talk Awards, while the new Splish, Splash Sink ’n’ Stove received Highly Commended in the Best Role-Play category and the 4-in-1 Sports Edition Trike was Highly Michelle Lilley commended for Best Ride-On. Little Tikes also picked up a whopping eight awards at the inaugrual Loved by Children Awards. The Activity Garden took three golds, and the Jump n’ Slide Dry Bouncer and the Splish, Splash Sink ‘n’ Stove took one each.

“It’s been a great month for us at Little Tikes – we’re feeling a little giddy with all 14 awards, but we’re all genuinely delighted and very proud,” said Little Tikes Marketing Manager, Michelle Lilley.

“Everyone’s hard work and commitment pays off when we scoop the top awards and it goes to show that our commitment to delivering durable, innovative and high quality, entertaining toys to children continues some 40 years on.”

Azerbaijan welcomes The Entertainer The Entertainer held an opening ceremony for its first store in Azerbaijan in late November, working with franchisee The Zeta Group.

The 5,500 sq ft store is the first in Azerbaijan’s capital, opening its doors on 29 November 2014 at Port Baku Mall, a premium mall recently developed by Pasha Construction LLC. The grand opening gave children the chance to meet some of their favourite characters, including Hello Kitty, Power Rangers, Darth Vader and Storm Troopers, and enjoy activities including face painting and toy demonstrations.

H.M. British Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Irfan Siddiq, was the honorary guest of the ceremony,

JANUARY 2015

cutting the ribbon and giving a welcome speech. “It’s great to see British brands entering the Azerbaijani market,” he said. “It reinforces the global affinity and closeness between the UK and Azerbaijan.”

The Entertainer’s Duncan Grant said: “This is a fantastic looking store, I am certainly very proud of it.

Looking at the store you would not know if you were in Azerbaijan or in Westfield, London.”

TOY RETAILER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS REVEALED The BTHA has revealed the shortlist of finalists for the Toy Retailer of the Year Awards 2014.

TnP’s very own Mairead Wilmot joined a group of strategically based toy agents and national account managers from around the UK rounded on the judging panel, led by a selection of BTHA Council members. The group was tasked with whittling down the nominations and picking this year’s winners, celebrating exceptional dedication and performance in retailers of every scale.

Nominations were invited from BTHA members’ toy agents and national account managers as well as toy stores who were also invited to self-nominate.

This year’s finalists are: • Independent Toy Retailer of the Year • MIDCO Toymaster • Toytown Seaford • Toys N Tuck Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (up to 5 stores): • A1 Toys • Ken Black Toys • Just William Toys Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (up to 30 stores): • Kids Stuff Toys • SMF Toys • Toy Barnhaus Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (over 30 stores): • Smyths • The Entertainer • Toys R Us General Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year: • Argos • Morleys • Harrods Online Toy Retailer of the Year: • Shop Direct • Smyths • The Entertainer The winners of the prestigious Toy Retailer Awards will be announced at the annual Toy Industry Awards held at the Science Museum, South Kensington, London on 20 January 2015.

The gala event is organised by the BTHA in association with the Toy Retailers Association (TRA), who will also present the Toy and Supplier Awards 2014 on the same evening.

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NEWS FAMILY FORTUNES

ToyTesters tweet to the top ToyTesters.tv is celebrating the success of its first Twitter party, which trended at number one on the social network in the UK, beating a mammoth discussion about the Prime Minister.

Hosted by children’s TV presenter and face of ToyTesters.tv, Nigel Clarke, the party gave participants the chance to win over £700 worth of toys and games throughout the two-hour slot.

The party hashtag #UltimateToyComp achieved over 10,500,000 timeline deliveries. Throughout the party, ToyTesters.tv discussed topics such as nostalgic toys and product packaging.

Industry attendees included Bandai, Spin Master, Ravensburger, PR companies, Really Kid Friendly and The Good Toy Guide’s Amanda Gummer, who offered advice to parents throughout the session. As well as collecting a significant amount of research throughout the party, ToyTesters.tv’s aim was to thank all the companies who have supported them throughout the year.

“Wow! What an evening. I’ve never known anything like it. We’ve had so much support from the industry this year and we wanted to give something back,” said Gemma Gallagher, Director of ToyTesters.tv. “The party was about them, their products, their brands, their toys. We’re staggered by the amount of involvement and we can’t quite believe the 10,500,000 time line deliveries.”

Jumbo checks in with Elmo Jumbo Games has signed a deal with Sesame Workshop to produce a range of licensed children’s puzzles and games for pre-school series The Furchester Hotel, a co-production between Sesame Street and CBeebies. The range will include a 35-piece puzzle assortment, a 4-in-1 shaped puzzle, giant playing cards and a dominoes game. The range is set to launch in A/W 2015.

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R H Smith & Sons, company behind Smiffys, has been crowned Family Business of the Year at the Midlands Family Business Awards – a fitting title for a company that’s just celebrated its 120th anniversary. Held at Nottingham Trent University, the awards were attended by 300 guests including this year’s finalists and panel of judges.

Chief among the panel was lead judge Alex Polizzi and Chris Taylor, partner at headline sponsor Smith and Cooper, who praised R H Smith’s forward thinking, ambitious approach to running a family business.

Taylor said: “R H Smith really impressed us this year for three main reasons: their incredible ambition to grow which really shone through during the presentation on the judging day, their high level of commitment to their people and their openness to seek advice.”

Dominique Peckett, Director at R H Smith & Sons said it was an honour to collect the award on behalf of everyone that makes the company a success. “We’re thrilled to have won this prestigious award that recognises the hard work and dedication of not only our family and Board members, but the entire R H Smith team,” she said. “We’d like to congratulate all the other finalists; we’re told it was an exceptionally hard fought category.”

The company also added the award for Gainsborough Business of the Year to its growing trophy cabinet earlier this the year.

Hamleys to open at Lakeside Hamleys has signed a deal with shopping centre operator Intu for a new store at its Lakeside site.

The new 9,000 sq ft Hamleys will open in spring 2015, joining Hamleys stores in Manchester and Cardiff as the third located in Intu centres.

“Intu Lakeside with its strong family demographic is a great location for a new Hamleys store. Working closely with Intu we have created a store that complements our UK growth strategy, delivering our unique retail experience of fun, theatre and entertainment,” a spokesperson for Hamleys said. “The Intu Lakeside store will be in a great position and we are sure the impact of an impressive 51-metre frontage right at the gateway of the proposed leisure extension means our store will perform well.”

With several well-known toy retailers already at the Intu Lakeside, it will be interesting to see how Hamleys fits in. Could Lakeside soon become a national toy-buying destination for consumers? Intu Regional Director, Julian Wlkinson, certainly believes the new store will add to the centre’s family-friendly credentials.

“Hamleys is a great addition to the premium tenant mix at Intu Lakeside and substantially improves the centre’s family offer,” he said. “As an iconic British brand offering quality children’s toys and experiences, the new store will attract more people.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

COFFEE BREAK Jeremy Wilks, Sales Director, First Celtic Learning, sums up 2014 and looks towards 2015

TOLO Baby Musical Activity

LEGO AVENGERS REVEALED IN MOVIE BUILD UP A German language LEGO catalogue has provided a first look at the LEGO Marvel Super Heroes Avengers: Age of Ultron tie-in sets, due out in April 2015, according to the pamphlet.

Six sets inspired by the film will launch initially featuring the series’ Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Hulk, villain Ultron and more.

Enthusiasts unearthed some details before hand, but this was the first opportunity to properly eyeball the sets. The news caused a stir online, and pop and ‘geek’ culture websites such as io9 picked through the photos to glean any details they could about the movie, set for release next summer. Warning: potential plot spoilers ahead, for those saving themselves.

The site speculates, for example, that because one of the play sets is called Hulkbuster Rescue Mission, the Hulk will end up in peril and the movie will feature a scene where Iron Man sets him free. Further speculation comes from the different minifigure designs for Ultron, with io9 pointing out the potential progression and different forms of the movie’s primary antagonist.

The licensed sets include: Iron Man vs. Ultron - 90 pieces Duel with Hydra - 220 pieces Hulkbuster Rescue Mission - 248 pieces The Avengers Quinjet Chase - 722 pieces Attack on Avengers Tower - 511 pieces Burglary at the Hydra Fortress - Piece count unknown

JANUARY 2015

Octablox

TOLO Baby Carousel

How would you sum up 2014 for First Celtic Learning?

We enjoyed a positive year, the highlight of which was the start of an exciting new partnership with a major retailer, M&S. Having one of our brands, TOLO, being selected by M&S for their new Baby World concept was really an exciting and proud moment for our company. It really reinforces our strategy: to market products of super quality, that have strong educational benefits and that we, as well as our reseller partners and the customer, are proud to buy and own. We also started to develop our own branded products, the first of which will be available in 2015 and will be launched at Toy Fair 2015.

What are your top three selling ranges?

We have experienced strong growth in pre-school in 2014. This really is our focus area and we now export to over 30 countries. TOLO has done well this year. We have enjoyed strong sales in TOLO Classics, Baby and our Garden Range has had a bumper year.

What new products should retailers be looking out for from First Celtic Learning?

We will launch our new brand, OCTABLOX, at Toy Fair. This is a terrific new multi-dimensional building system that really engages and challenges the imagination and curiosity of young and the notso-young minds! The product range starts from three years plus and there are three sets within the range: Starter, Junior and Advanced. The packaging is very impactful and appealing, complemented with a free design ideas booklet, which is included within the set for free. The set itself consists of different shaped and coloured blocks, made from hard plastic. Two of the sets also have a base plate included. The elements can be stacked together, nested and wedged to enable children of all ages to build creatively. We extensively test all our products in a school environment, and the feedback and comments for OCTABLOX were extremely positive.

What initiatives does First Celtic Learning use to help retailers sell more?

Throughout the year we run promotions in stores and offer free prizes to our reseller partners. For our larger accounts, we supply in-store play tables that are a great success and generate a lot of interest around the product. We also offer selected price promotions on lines that are leaving the ‘live’ assortment.

What are your top three tips for surviving fair season?

Stay positive, keep hydrated and sleep well the night before the show starts!

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LONDON’S LEGO LAND

The LEGO Group celebrated the opening of their new offices in central London recently.Team TnP met with CEO and President Jorgen Vig Knudstorp and UK Country Manager Fiona Wright at the event

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t is impressive – there is no denying that. With enviable panoramic views across central London, The LEGO Group officially opening their new office at the end of November.

Senior management and staff gathered to see LEGO Group CEO and President Jorgen Vig Knudstorp declare the company’s new creative hub now open.

“LEGO is a truly global company,”

Jorgen told TnP. “We reach children in every county in the world. We are gender diverse and it is important for our range to respect this too. We have not ‘made it’ yet though, we see opportunities to grow everywhere we look.”

And it is this desire to grow and understand their target audience which makes this family run company so impressive. Indeed, testament to the close-knit nature of the global company was the fact that Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, owner and grandson of LEGO Group’s found Ole Kirk Kristiansen, was present.

Summing up LEGO’s attitude

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to their business, UK Country Manager Fiona Wright explained that the company is “very people focused”. Ultimately though product is king, and LEGO product really is king at retail. When asked why she thinks LEGO We are a resonates so strongly with joyful company consumers, Fiona said: - it trickles down “First and foresmost, it has to be the product. We have from the top and fantastic quality product every member that continually delivers of staff is proud on creativity, the building to work for experience and the relevancy to children… everything that LEGO, proud of goes into that LEGO set the work we do and the quality of it makes and how we it a must-have toy. It stays relevant to kids, we keep the connect with ‘newness’. We’re constantly children and our pumping new innovation into the market with new products, values are very important to us new themes but at the same time we are keeping that core too very strong.”

Jorgen Vig Despite their strength, LEGO Knudstorp are not ones to rest on their laurels, and as Jorgen explains, the company sees opportunity for growth, citing North America as a place they see potential to grow in.

And yes, while LEGO are a big business – they have not lost their core values undoubtedly driven from starting as a family business.

“We are a joyful company - it trickles down from the top and every member of staff is proud to work for LEGO, proud of the work we do and how we connect with children and our values are very important

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to us too,” he explained. “There is a saying in Danish that it is important to recreate the smell of the bakery we try to do that in our products.”

Fiona backs this sentiment up. “ Part of LEGO’s forward momentum is their ability to spot a “hot” license. They’ve been to the fore with everything from Minecraft to Guardians of the Galaxy. Fiona explains that this is a crucial part of their business and they have a team in LA who work closely with the major film studios. “ And Jorgen solidifies this by saying, “My team is strong and from a variety of backgrounds - I have recently hired two new execs, one previously from Revlon and another who was from Google.”

Jorgen also puts the company’s “Danishness” down to their success.

“I think some of the success that LEGO enjoys is as a result of our Danishness - we are a very open culture, we believe in being transparent, credible and authentic.

I think all these things translate into our products and our dealings with our consumers.” He continues: “A very important part of Danish culture is the lack of respect of authority and hierarchy. I think this is critical is because it means that we accommodate and accept all ideas.

We are a humble low-ego culture which is why perhaps when we began to trade in China we found it confronting at first. But of course we adapted, and our Chairman, the grandson of our founder, is very able to lead us forward in this way.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk7

PEOPLE

NEWS

Warren joins Interplay Warren Jacobs has joined Interplay as the new Product Development Manager. Having worked for Tomy for the last 10 years, Warren has a wealth of experience in product development and hopes to bring some exciting new innovations to the portfolio.

Interplay are positive that he will bring a fresh new outlook to their range allowing them to continue to build on the success of all their brands.

Speaking of the new appointment, Ross Ainsworth commented: “We are delighted to welcome Warren Jacobs to Interplay. We are excited about the growth within Interplay and look forward to seeing what fresh new ideas Warren can bring to his development role.”

Two news faces for Kidicraft There are two new faces on the Kidicraft team.

Following the news that the company is to distribute the Morocolor Primo range within the UK and Republic of Ireland, they have appointed two further agents. Chris Bullock will be their agent for the North of England and John Burgess will be their agent within East Anglia.

Director Roy Greenwood said: “It’s great to have Chris and John on board as part of our ever-expanding team; both have many years’ experience within the toy industry and I look forward to working with them in what will be a very exciting 2015.”

Gibsons appoints new sales agent Following the recently announced retirement of Dave Soutar, Gibsons has appointed a new Sales Agent to represent the company in Scotland. Maria Thomson joined the company on 1 January 2015. Maria is already known to many retailers in Scotland as an established agent representing companies in Children’s Books, Puzzles and Gift products. Prior to this Maria gained extensive experience of both retailing and sales in Toys and Greeting Cards. Managing Director, Nick Wright commented: “We are really looking forward to working with Maria, she is highly motivated and brings great energy, enthusiasm and experience. Adding the Gibsons range to her existing portfolio gives her a really strong base and we are sure Maria will provide a high level of service and support to all our customers. We wish Dave a long and happy retirement and we welcome Maria to the Gibsons team”.

JANUARY 2015

Kerry has a new role within Vivid There has been an internal promotion within in the Vivid family. Kerry Paternoster has been promoted to the role of Marketing Manager across the Toy and Drumond Park division.

Kerry took up her new role from 1 January and is reporting directly to Marketing Director, Mary Wood. Formerly Senior Brand Manager, she oversaw new and existing toy brands including Real FX, Animagic, Thunderbirds and more. Kerry has also been actively involved in the transition to incorporate the Drumond Park games portfolio into the Vivid business. “A valued team player, this promotion is in recognition of Kerry’s continued dedication to Vivid and passion for brand management and people development,” said Mary Wood. “We are delighted to be able to reward her hard work and commitment to Vivid. It’s a welldeserved promotion.”

New CFO for Mothercare Mothercare has a new CFO in the form of Richard Smothers. He will take up his new role as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director in March 2015.

Richard is currently Director of Group Finance at Rexam plc, a position that he has held since 2011.

Prior to this role, he spent 14 years at Tesco in a number of senior finance roles, including Finance Director (Asia), CFO Tesco Lotus (in Thailand) and Finance Director for UK Operations, having previously held various positions at Cargill.

Richard is also a member of the Finance Committee, University College London.

Speaking about his appointment, Richard said: “I am excited to be joining Mothercare plc at this pivotal time in its turnaround, and look forward to working closely with Mark, the Executive Committee and the Board of the Company.”

Brand Loyalty appoints Marie-Laure Marie-Laure Marchand has left Studio 100 for Brand Loyalty. She will lead the worldwide licensing activities of its Instant Loyalty Promotion department.

Marie-Laure Marchand joins the company from Studio 100, where she was heading up the International Consumer Products and Marketing activities. She also held several roles in the kid’s entertainment industry during these past twenty years.

13

EXHIBITION

NEWS

Are you TV ready?

Make sure you have your best M clobber on because you could be clo appearing on TV following the BTHA’s app announcement that Toy Fair TV is coming annou This is the third year that Toy Fair TV back. Th will be at the exhibition. Presenters Anna Williamson and Gavin Inskip will helm the event and Toy Fair TV will film live across the show floor and in the Toy Fair TV studio, which will host the Demo Zone. The show will be broadcast live on 24 screens across Olympia throughout all three days of Toy Fair 2015. New for 2015 is the Toy Fair TV studio. The studio will be the main hub for programming throughout the three days, based on the gallery level next to the press office. The studio will host the Demo Zone, a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style programme where exhibitors demonstrate their product within a short space of time to an audience of children – the Demo Zone kids.

The business of great toys Those heading to Spielwarenmesse 2015 in Germany may be interested in attending the Toy Business Forum.

This year’s informative line-up is certainly one to watch. Running from Wednesday 28 January to Sunday 1 February, 2015, the programme covers everything from talks on future trends and innovations to how to attract new consumers with traditional retailing.

The business forum will be hosting 17 talks over the course of fair and are dedicated to a specific subject each day from licensing to marketing.

Log onto www.spielwarenmesse.de to find out more.

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP! The name alone can make you feel a bit jollier during these cold winter nights! Spring Fair is fast approaching and there is some good news coming from the camp.

Spring Fair organiser, i2i Events Group, has reported a 10% year-onyear growth in exhibitor numbers for the 2015 show.

Taking place between 1-5 February 2015, the show will bring together 3,000 British and international exhibitors, 400 of which are brand new to the event, providing visitors with a treasure trove of more than 300,000 new products to choose from across the 14 different market sectors represented.

There is plenty to see and do at the fair which has become a mustattend event for those in the gift and toy retail sector. The fair brings together the very best of what is on offer from top global companies.

This year, organisors i2i say there is a new development planned for 2015. Visitors should look out for the Retail Shop brand, an evolution of the e-commerce zones at Spring and Autumn Fair.

Retail Shop will provide a full-spectrum offering dedicated to cutting-edge technology and retail sector solutions to keep all links of the supply chain competitive in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.

Located in Hall 4, The Retail Shop will represent those products and services essential to successful multi-channel retailing, including in-store and online solutions, logistics and fulfillment experts, marketing platforms, payment providers and specialists in packaging.

14

The big apple has been eaten!

It’s a sell-out! Organisers of the North American Toy Fair, the TIA, has revealed that the show has sold out of exhibition space. All 419,000 sq ft of exhibit space at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is now gone. Going forward, prospective Toy Fair exhibitors will be placed on the show’s wait list and organisers say they will do their best to accommodate wait list requests.

“For the first time in show history, Toy Fair has sold out of exhibit space. More than 1,000 fast-acting exhibitors from the U.S., Canada and abroad, made sure to submit their booth applications before the holidays in order to secure their spots at the largest toy marketplace in the Western Hemisphere,” said Marian Bossard, TIA senior vice president of global market events. “With tens of thousands of visitors expected from around the world, Toy Fair 2015 is sure to be a whirlwind of energy, activity and product innovation!”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

MOVIE

NEWS

Pixar’s 15th movie revealed!

Pixar has given fans a first look at its latest animated outing, Inside Out. It’s the first trailer for the movie, which focuses on all the unseen, unheard emotions inside our heads – anthropomorphised emotions, naturally.

The film centres on Riley, a young girl who has just moved with her family. But it’s the goings-on inside her head, the actions of Joy, Fear, Anger, Sadness and Disgust, that are the real stars of the show. The trailer joins Riley in a heated argument with her father. As tension builds, the emotions take action in a sequence that plays out very much like a scene from a military operation centre or space shuttle control. It’s more than just grey matter inside our brains, apparently! Inside Out will be the studio’s 15th feature film. Set for a July 24, 2015 release in the UK, Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, and Mindy Kaling head the voice cast.

The blockbuster returns Movie royalty Star Wars and Jurassic Park gave fans their first taste of what’s to come with new trailers in late November, 2014. The movies, from Disney and Universal Pictures respectively, both caused a storm online, each racking up millions of views in the first 24 hours. As the marketing machine for next year’s screen-fillers whirs into action, experts are anticipating a resurgence in the popularity of cinemas. Speaking to The Sunday Times, Cinema Exhibitors’ Association Chief Executive, Phil Clapp, predicted the best admission figures for several decades. “We would certainly be looking at the highest admissions for 40 years.” Of course, the success of these franchises has always been closely linked to the toy industry. Frozen’s impact on the 2014 toy market has been unmistakeable, and with some big names already signed to bring licensed toys to market for Star Wars and Jurassic Park, a good 2015 for cinemas can only be good for retailers. Other big titles set for release include Spectre, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Minions, and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.

License to thrill The first details of the 24th James Bond film were revealed in December, including the title, Spectre, and major cast. Daniel Craig will return as the spy himself, with an all-star supporting cast including double Oscar winner Christopher Waltz.

True to form, Aston Martin revealed its new car, the DB10, which has been specially developed to feature in the movie. Anticipation is high following the franchise’s biggest box office hit, Skyfall, released in 2012. But Craig was at the centre of some joshing online, with Twitter users questioning his savoury ‘grandad jumper’ and slacks look. Movie goers will have to wait until Nov ‘15 to see if Craig digs out the tux.

16

Star says Frozen 2 is “in the works” 2014 was the year of Frozen. You couldn’t move for mention of Disney’s animated hit, with kids of all ages jumping into the world of Elsa, Anna, Olaf and co.It is big news then that the film’s biggest real world star, Idina Menzel, has confirmed Frozen 2.

The singer of Let It Go, the movie’s top musical number, let the news slip in an interview with The Telegraph. When asked if she could comment on the rumours circulating about a planned sequel and stage show, she said: “That they’re all in the works.” She added that although she had no plans to join the cast, she would “hopefully” be asked to reprise her movie role as the voice of Elsa. The news comes as Disney unveiled Frozen Fever, an animated short featuring the core characters that will hit cinema’s next year. It will be screened before the live-action re-telling of Cinderella, releasing in March 2015. The new animation will be set around Anna’s birthday party, and feature a new song from Let It Go writers.

Disney to nab Robin Hood?

Rumours abound that Disney may be in the process of putting a new Robin Hood project together.

Hollywood is buzzing with news that the company has picked up a spec script called Nottingham and Hood. However, it is also understood that Sony is also considering developing a Robin Hood-themed film. There have been several films based around the Nottingham hero, notably that of 1991’s Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner and 2010’s Robin Hood with Russell Crowe.

Whatever the outcome, we can only hope that one of these studios gives us a new Robin Hood film to whet our appetite and we look forward to seeing how this transcribes to licensing and toys.

Is there another Robin Hood on the way to rival Russell Crowe?

toysnplaythings.co.uk

bath toys!

www ggtrade co uk www.ggtrade.co.uk Sc ien P r e - Sc

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! kits ce s!

truction kits!

gifts and great ideas!

Activity kit

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Toys Come and see us at

Toyfair!

Olympia, london 20 - 22 January 2015 Stand G20

MEDIA

NEWS

Three Fu Tom

50,000 give LeapFrog the thumbs up!

LeapFrog has hit the 50,000 fans mark on its UK Facebook page following a year of milestone product launches. The company is celebrating this landmark achievement with its loyal fans by creating a user generated banner for the page. It will also be donating 300 LeapFrog products to children’s charities and local organisations in need, voted for by the LeapFrog UK Facebook community. LeapFrog has seen significant growth on its Facebook fan page following extensive investment in its social media strategy, introducing frequent news and updates, live Q&As, events and new launches, as well as content from mummy and daddy bloggers.

A monthly book club started earlier this year to promote LeapReader, the learn-to-read-and-write system, has become one of the page’s most successful and high-reaching posts. A parenting blogger is selected to review the book of the month, which is shared on the Facebook page alongside the chance to win a copy of the book. November’s book club post achieved a reach of more than 20,700 people, 632 likes, 881 comments and 175 shares. “We are really enjoying the opportunities social media offers us to get close to our consumers,” said International Marketing Director, Sally Plumridge. “It’s been a great journey so far and we are looking forward to engaging our fans further with the world of LeapFrog.”

Visit facebook.com/LeapFrogUK to see for yourself.

ANGELIC NEW APP Fresh off its two billion download celebration, Outfit7 (Talking Tom and Friends apps) launches My Talking Angela, the latest app starring the stylish feline. Launched worldwide on multiple platforms in early December the app offers a customised level of interactivity and play, allowing her two million-plus Facebook fans and more to nurture her from kitten to adult, while adding their own sense of style to Angela’s enchanting world.

GO, GO, GLOBAL DHX Media has announced numerous broadcast deals for Inspector Gadget (26 x 22’), its brand-new CGI series, an update of the classic kids’ cartoon. Turner Broadcasting has taken the series for its Boomerang channels across EMEA, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Gadget was commissioned by TELETOON in Canada and will premiere on the network in 2015.

18

CBeebies’ Controller Kay Benbow has commissioned a third series (20 x 22’) of the hit pre-school action adventure series Tree Fu Tom, for transmission in 2016.

A co-production between CBeebies in-house and FremantleMedia Kids & Family Entertainment (FMKFE), Tree Fu Tom has been a global hit since its debut on CBeebies in 2012. The high rating show has consistently performed well on the channel and is now broadcast in more than 123 territories across the globe.

Bob Higgins, EVP Creative and Production FMKFE said: “We are thrilled the BBC has continued its commitment to Tree Fu Tom by commissioning a third series. This new batch of episodes will further cement both the show’s opportunity for growth and its reputation as a major pre-school property.”

The third series maintains mini but mighty superhero Tom’s magical adventures, but also introduces some exciting new developments, giving the hero a range of new powers.

Kay Benbow added: “Tree Fu Tom is immensely popular with our audience and we are delighted to be commissioning 20 new adventures for Tom, Twigs and the gang. This new series will include all the elements which have made Tree Fu Tom so beloved by the audience whilst introducing some new developments to keep the series fresh and exciting.”

World of Warriors conquers App Store Mind Candy’s latest mobile game, World of Warriors, has been selected as one of The App Store’s Best of 2014 line-up. The game launched worldwide in November, reaching the number one spot on Apple’s digital marketplace in over 80 countries. The game has been localised into multiple languages. Mind Candy has signed global deals with Penguin, Topps, Moose, Giochi Preziosi and Flair for products inspired by the rich World of Warriors universe to launch in 2015.

“We’re thrilled to be in The App Store’s Best of 2014,” said Darran Garnham, Chief Commercial Officer at Mind Candy.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Pop go the viewing figures!

W

elcome to the media report covering the TV market for November. This report will cover the TV viewing levels for Boys 4-9 years, Girls 4-9 years and Housewives with all Children. Looking at the viewing levels for the Boys 4-9 Years, we see movement of viewing from one station to another, Nickelodeon is doing well as is The Cartoon Network and Pop. The overall viewing levels for this target market is up by 2.2% compared to November 2013. I think it is fair to say that the Boys are becoming programme selective and won’t watch TV for the sake of watching TV. We see a different picture when we look at the viewing figures for the girls, their overall market is up by 17.5% when compared to November last year. This increase has been helped by Pop going onto the freeview platform. Again we see movement from one station to another, as the girls become selective in their viewing habits. To sum up for both the Boys and Girls, their saving grace is the extra viewers these two groups are getting from Pop going on to the freeview platform. The viewing levels for Housewives with Children are also very up and down. Although Good Morning Britain is still market leader when compared to the other stations we measure, we see a decrease in viewing to the tune of 21.5% compared to November 2013. Nickelodeon Junior does well, as does Disney Junior, CiTV, Pop and Channel 5. I feel the main concern for the future will be Good Morning Britain as we did see a similar shortfall in October. The reported expenditure for the Top Ten companies for November, again we see the usual suspects, the reported expenditure is up by 7.8% when compared to November 2013, it’s interesting to note that we see Spin Master coming into the top ten for November 2014. There were 63 more toy products being promoted in November 2014 on TV than in November 2013, thus making the market very congested with certain stations. The Total TV revenue for November is not showing an increase, October was the highest revenue month of the year. The report for next month will show how the year ended up with the winners and losers in the ratings war.

MEDIA

CHARTS 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Housewives & Kids TVR’s November 2013 vs November 2014

Nov-13 Nov-14

10000 9000 8000 0 7000 0 6000 0 5000 0 4000 0 3000 0 2000 0 1000 0

Boys 4-9 TVR’s November 2013 vs November 2014

Nov 13 Nov-13 Nov-14

8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Girls 4-9 TVR’s November 2013 vs November 2014

Nov-13 Nov-14

Nov 2013 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Nov 2014 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Hasbro (UK) Ltd John Adams Leisure Ltd Mattel UK Ltd LEGO UK Ltd VTech Electronics Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Playmobil UK Ltd Drumond Park Ltd Character Options Ltd Fisher Price Toys Ltd

£2,012,866 £1,456,073 £837,474 £676,802 £632,093 £667,314 £611,023 £592,475 £578,243 £486,468

Hasbro (UK) Ltd John Adams Leisure Ltd Mattel UK Ltd Character Options Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Playmobil Uk Ltd VTech Electronics Ltd Spin Master Toys Ltd Fisher Price Toys Ltd LEGO UK Ltd

£1,844,316 £1,402,842 £1,202,529 £997,161 £888,464 £732,143 £699,475 £669,074 £510,460 £428,269

For more information on viewing levels please contact Mike Penfold. mike@globalmedia.me.uk Tel: 01753 889630.

All graphs and information supplied by Global Media Services

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MEDIA

OPINION

Are you a viewer or a streamer?

Television, the future comes one day at a time, says Clive

L

ate last year Ofcom published its third review of the UK’s public service broadcasting (PSB). The title itself comes across very “Old Media” and I expected the report to be accompanied with a picture of Guglielmo Marconi.

Viewing to the main PSB Channels accounted for more than half (51.1 %) of all TV viewing in the UK in 2013. This is a long way from the monopoly position that PSB channels enjoyed for many years. The above figure fell from a viewing share of 60.8%, five years earlier in 2008.

However “new media” allows the viewing figures to aggregate the viewing for PSB+1 channels, which when taken into account the combined figure becomes 58.7% in 2013; a reduction of just 3.5% over five years.

Given the change in digital technology over that period, together with the introduction of the word “streaming” into our vocabulary. Once upon a time the verb used to describe watching television was “viewing”, and we “viewed programmes” rather than “viewed content”. Whilst the Ofcom report covers all PSB channels the sheer critical mass of output is difficult to relate to in terms of individual programming.

What we can learn from the report is that investment in original first run programmes from the PSBs fell by 17.3 % between 2008 and 2013 to £204.1 billion in contrast the spend on original nonsport programming from the nonPSB channels increased by 43 % to £345 million in 2013.

The Ofcom report carries on to outline a number of changes that could present both opportunities and challenges for the PSBs; however they are not for this article other than a couple of very pertinent points that could impact on the PSB channels.

I wrote in this magazine last year of the threat that a reduction in BBC license fee could become an issue in next year’s election campaigning. If the BBC were to receive less money it would affect the programme spend and in turn the viewing to BBC Channels. The commercial PSBs could see a downturn in advertising revenues that would also impact on programming investment, and again in turn would affect viewing.

In two months time (March),

“

it will be 12 months to the day that the BBC director general Tony Hall announced plans to close BBC3 as a linear TV channel, taking it online only and slashing its commissioning budget by £50m. The proceeds will be funnelled into BBC1 drama and the BBC’s iPlayer. Factual entertainment strands and traditional TV genres will be abandoned with a new focus on content.

The reality of BBC3 becoming an online only station is a result of making savings. The new DG had joined the BBC shortly after its previous management had spent £98 million between 2008 – 2012 on a failed digital production system as part of the move to Salford.

Ed Richards, Ofcom’s Chief Executive stood down from his post last month after a successful tenure in the position.

The PSB share of viewing figures reflected a positive achievement for the channels confirmed by Ed Richards who said: “How people watch TV is changing, but it is clear that viewer’s value programmes from the public service broadcasters”.

Whilst the PSBs can be pleased with the output and market share there are further developments in the digital space with kids channels. On 7 January 2015 Tiny Pop will be available on Freeview across the UK. Tiny Pop is targeted at children 3 -7, key shows include My Little Pony and Care Bears. This move from the owners, Sony Pictures Television (SPT) follows Pop Channel aimed at older children that moved onto Freeview last year and saw audience levels increase.

Freeview slots and carriage is an expensive commodity. For the advertisers, programme providers, and young viewers, it is encouraging to see SPT building on the original success achieved by Chart Show channels and their founder Keith McMillian.

Whilst SPT consolidates its distribution on Digital Terrestrial Television on Freeview, Netflix is growing distribution across Europe. Last year Netflix launched in six European countries and is expected to have a universe of 17 million paying subscribers by the end of last year (2014). Awareness of Netflix has been built around their top dramas; the channel now has around 3 million subscribers across the UK and Ireland. The Netflix model is not dedicated to replicating the free-to-air or pay TV kids channels, but they do have a kids block.

At this stage of development in the UK the Netflix kids schedule plays out to “on demand” viewing.

The shows and movies are thoughtfully presented by age bands from 3 – 15 with a colour coded content graded menu.

At the “green” end of the schedule shows like Jake and the Neverland Pirates—stretching to The Vampire Diaries at age 15 colour coded “Amber”. Shows like Phineas and Ferb stay green across the kids range from ages 5 – 14. Netflix have already demonstrated their ability of their business model to invest in top quality drama, as a channel that is not dependant on advertisers.

Therefore there are no ratings. As Netflix continues to roll out across Western Europe and the Nordics, it will be interesting to see if further investment goes behind children’s programmes to take this audience to another level of viewing but without TVR’s.

If the BBC were to receive less money it would affect the programme spend and in turn the viewing to BBC Channels

”

Clive Crouch www.clivecrouch.com info@clivecrouch.com mobile: 07831 670 453 20

toysnplaythings.co.uk1

COVER FEATURE MV

MoVe on up!

With a raft of top new licenses and investment in its own-brand lines, find out what MV Sports has planned for 2015 to deliver on its reputation as a one-stop shop for wheeled toys and outdoor play

brands such as Peppa Pig, My Little Pony and Ben and Holly ranges, each with its own distinct eye catching design. All properties have a delightful selection ction of product, with My Little Pony and nd Ben and Holly featuring impressive ve new redesigns. MV’s awesome boys oys pre-school evergreens, Thomas the he Tank Engine and Fireman Sam, boast oast a selection of innovative designs allowing lowing imaginative play combined with MV’s outstanding quality.

For older boys, tried and trusted ed favourites such as Batman and Star tar Wars lead the way. The Star Warss 16-inch bike holds awesome graphics hi and impressive high impact colours that will ensure this is at the top of every boy’s wish list. Thunderbirds and World of Warriors are set to alight the imaginations of younger boys. With new ranges under way, these are going to be a staple on every retailer’s shelves throughout 2015.

Marvel’s Avengers promises to be the superhero hit of the spring/summer cinema season with Avengers: Age of Ultron due for release in April.

Advance orders for MV’s brand new range of helmets, skateboards,

B30

scooters and bikes have been phenomenal. Alwa Always looking to add more value, MV’s MV own branded wheeled range attracted attra a lot of attention i thro throughout h oughout 2014.

The Grow & Go G range is focused on a parentparent-friendly combination o of conve convertibility and re-configuration n which a allows each product to ada adapt apt to the child’s needs as they grow in confid dence.

MV’s outdoor play equipment equipmen brand Hedstrom is renown renowned ed for q quality and value for money and d is the U UK’s bestkno known wn range rang of metal sw swings, wings, slides sl and multi-plays. Sitting multi-pla m alongside this a brand is MV b M Sports pioneering pion Kickmaster K rrange of kid-friendly k ffootball equipment e that has benchmark for established a benc the category in the UK, and continues after it to set the pace twenty two years y was first launched!

M

V Sports is set for an exciting 2015. From ride-onss and trikes for pre-schoolerss to BMXs and stunt scooterss for teens, MV Sports is a one-stop shop p for all wheeled and outdoor product needs.

Choosing the perfect wheeled toy for kids is a big decision, and with the size and price of these outdoor favourites, parents are keen to have their say and pick a product that will stand the test of time.

Although own brand products such as the hugely successful Stunted range are a core part of MV’s offering, the wheeled specialist is also dedicated to working with must have licenses to meet customer demand.

Picking the right property to back in this category is key, and with licensed goods at the end of the licensing chain, the choice of property can make or break a product. With this in mind, MV Sports has recently agreed an amazing multi property licenses agreement with the Walt Disney Company, further strengthening its elite force of brands.

The new line-up features Disney Princess, Disney Cars and Disney Planes.

Disney Princess without a doubt fills the gap in the preschool wheeled market for a princess related property. The innovative new range combines magical accessories and features with regal colourways and graphics.

The MV girl’s preschool arena has dominant

Stand :

Contact the MV Sports team by calling 01217 488000 or by logging onto www.mvsports.co.uk

Disney magic A recent agreement with Disney will see MV Sports rolling out some of the world’s hottest properties ties next year. Three new licenses complement ment MV’s existing Disney offering, g, giving consumers even more choice hoice and Disney magic!

The full Disney offering from MV V now includes: s: Disney Princess Disney Cars Disney Planes Marvel ers Avengers ars Star Wars

21

WHAT’S NEW

NEW LAUNCHES TO HELP YOU SELL MORE

Peppa the jetsetter CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com With her stunning Holiday theme, pre-school favourite Peppa Pig will introduce a whole new collection for fans to enthuse about.

Peppa’s Holiday collection, including its Holiday Jet, Camper Van playset and Sunshine Villa, launches in January and is bound to be a year-round favourite.

Adding to this in autumn is Peppa’s delightful Once Upon a Time collection inspired by a child’s favourite fairy-tales. Figure packs of Peppa and all her friends will come donned in fancy dress, such as Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella. Playsets will also be given a magical touch such as Cinders Peppa and Coachman George with a Pumpkin Coach, and a Fairy-tale Tea Party playset.

For little brother George there’s a new adventure with his Follow Me Home Dragon that shouts instructions such as “fly left” and “go right” as he is flown through the air with George on board. Finally, the hero playset, Peppa’s Enchanting Tower, will be the must-have for fans.

The coolest lines HTI 01253 778888 www.htigroup.co.uk Riding the icy wave of the incredible success of the Disney Frozen franchise, HTI has released and extensive range of Disney Frozen wheeled and pocket money toys.

The wheeled range includes bikes for all ages and sizes from 10” to 16” as well as scooters and skates. The 14” bike sports a super robust steel frame with front and rear calliper brakes, chain guard, adjustable handle bars and removable stabilisers as well as a beautiful front plaque featuring Elsa The full range of Disney Frozen pocket money toys offers little fans a snow-capped selection of wintry wonders including assorted Loom Bands and Case sets, a Magnetic Sketcher, Musical lines, Soft Ball, Mini Band Set, Twirling Baton, Kaleidoscope and selected Bubble toys.

The flashing Frozen Sparkle

22

Balls light up and flash with every bounce. Easy to wear 23cm Snap Bands are available in an assortment of three colours featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf artwork. Additional lines are also in development and will be launching early 2015.

Working closely with Disney Consumer Products, all the products feature the beautiful character artworks and colourways that Frozen fans will instantly recognise.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

WHAT’S NEW

NEW LAUNCHES TO HELP YOU SELL MORE

On the road to success CHICCO 01623750870 www.chicco.co.uk Chicco has embarked on an exciting partnership with Fiat to develop a brand new radio controlled toy car for the 2015 range. Suitable for toddlers aged 2 years and upwards, the car is based on the Fiat 500 by Abarth and is a cute little number controlled using a steering wheel shaped remote, which also features a horn.

The Fiat 500’s friendly face is sure to win over little ones and parents as well. Fiat 500 R/C will be another hero product in the already successful family of R/C products by Chicco, such as Billy Big Wheels and Johnny Coupè.

The Fiat 500 has been extremely popular since its launch in the UK, regularly featuring in the top ten best-selling cars. The new licensed R/C from Chicco will no doubt provide hours of fun and be just as popular as the actual car. In fact Chicco thinks there might even be a few adults hoping to get their hands on this lovely RC toy!

Treasure trove GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk Plan Toys is a fabulous collection of naturally coloured wooden toys that appeal to both boys and girls from the age of six months and is currently leading the way in innovative manufacturing methods and its belief in sustainable play. New for 2015 are the fantasy land range and a fabulous array of colourful sensory and learning toys. There’s also a wide variety of outdoor toys, ride-ons, games and puzzles plus educational pieces that will keep little ones entertained.

The Pirate Boat, new for 2015, is a wooden sailing ship that is ideal for any pirate themed adventures.

Kids can look for the pirates’ buried treasure, or fire at the enemies with the included wooden cannon.

There’s also a mini sail and paddle for making a quick getaway!

JANUARY 2015

Introducing Playdroid!

LEXIBOOK +33173232323 www.lexibook.com Who hasn’t spent hours on their smartphone deploying Clash of Clans strategies, finding the best Candy Crush combinations or smashing all of the blocks on Angry Birds? To extend this experience to the max and create fun moments spent together, Lexibook has developed a console with its own unique character to adapt this gaming experience to the big home screen: Playdroid TV! Playdroid TV is the revolutionary Android console, with games, multimedia features and endless fun. There’s bowling, tennis, running, fishing, karting and more! Over 30 games are included to take advantage of the console’s capabilities, right from the start.

There are also thousands of games available for download from the Playdroid Market. There you will find both all-time classic and trendy Android games, for a limitless gaming experience that you can share with friends and family!

Playdroid TV’s multimedia features make it a complete console at the cutting edge of technology: storage, Internet, videos for download… all directly on your TV! A second controller (sold separately) is also available to share the fun and challenge others!

23

RETAIL

OPINION

Toy talk TnP talks to retailers about how the performance for the year, what’s selling well now and what they are expecting from Toy Fair 2015

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we chat with retailers around the country to see what is selling well and how they are finding consumers on the ground

NEIL WAITE Owner, Captain Neil’s Toy Chest, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire Neil has been in business with Captain Neil’s Toy Chest for threeand-a-half years, but six months ago moved to bigger premises as the shop had been doing so well and they wanted to expand. The store sells everything from dolls, games and jigsaws, to costumes, RC Cars and construction.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

We have been up each and every month throughout the whole of 2014, so doing much better than in 2013.

What is selling well now that will carry through to 2015?

Frozen merchandise has been going really well for us – to the point where a week before Christmas, we were sold out of Frozen dolls and just left with Frozen BLO Pen Activity Sets and Frozen Shaker Makers. Retro board games have also been doing well for us – classics like Ludo, Snakes & Ladders and Jolly Post Office – partly because of the nostalgia trend that’s still going strong and partly as we are the only toy shop around here that offer them.

Which products or companies hold promise for you in 2015?

Disney’s Frozen stuff will continue to do well and Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are flying right now and will continue to go strong.

The Mini Turtles have been doing particularly well for us.

How do you plan for Toy Fair and do you buy there?

I normally go to Toy Fair every year, mainly to meet with my major suppliers like Bandia and Melissa & Doug, as well as to see something different, but this year I’m on my honeymoon.

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ATANSNAS IBRISHIMOV Owner, The Magic Toy Shop, Edenbridge, Kent Bulgarian owner Atansnas has been running etailer The Magic Toy Shop in Kent for the past eight years. It stocks a wide variety of toys, with a focus on great wooden toys and great prices. Its focus is that of bringing the traditional toy shop to the online buyers.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

We are up much more than last year, so it’s been a positive year and we have higher expectations again of 2015. In fact, this year has been our best year for the past seven years.

What is selling well now that will carry through to 2015?

We have a focus on traditional toys, such as oldfashioned wooden toys, so these always perform well for us. This year, our craft lines have performed well, in particular and we have seen particularly high sales for the Grafix craft kits for both boys and girls.

Which products or companies hold promise for you in 2015?

Tomy toys – we do well with Tomy and expect to do even better with its toys next year.

How do you plan for Toy Fair and do you buy there?

I have been visiting Toy Fair for the past eight years. I always plan appointments with suppliers beforehand and I’m always on the look-out for something new, too… whatever sparks my interest.

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SUSAN SLOAN MICHAEL KILBURN Owner, Toys at Wetherby, Wetherby, West Yorkshire Previously a librarian, owner Michael Kilburn took over what was Castlegate Toys a month ago and has breathed new life into the store, with lots more and relevant lines and products, and a big focus on licensed product surrounding kids’ films.

How has trading been in your first month?

Really good so far – I opened in time for the runup to Christmas, so it’s been a really busy time.

What is selling well now that will carry through to 2015?

We started stocking the Paddington Bear bears the week the film went into the cinema and they have been flying off the shelves – the talking ones and the beanie ones, the latter great for stocking fillers. Frozen dolls and Furbys have also been doing well for us. And the Worry Doll Teddy Bear has been flying, too.

Which products or companies hold promise for you in 2015?

LEGO and Playmobil are the big ones for us. We already stock LEGO but we really want to amp it up with LEGO in 2014 - we will have LEGO Frozen ready for January and will also be stocking Jurassic World LEGO. And with Shaun The Sheep film out in February, we will be looking at stocking licensed product in February for this, as well as a window display. In fact, it’s our plan to create window displays with licensed product for every children’s film that comes out.

Store manager, Toyland Toy Shop, Keighley, West Yorkshire With seven stores across the north of England, Toyland is a traditional toyshop stocking extensive ranges, from the specialist items of Hornby and Scalextric to pocket money ranges. The Keighley store is West Yorkshire stocks this, as well as a good assortment of games, jigsaws, collectables, action figures, pre-school and educational toys, with brands everything from Nerf, Barbie and Moshi Monsters, to Play-Doh, LEGO and Sylvanian Families.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

It has been pretty stable throughout the year, but a little bit down on last year. We are busy right now [pre-Christmas] though.

What is selling well now that will carry through to 2015?

LEGO consistently does brilliantly for us – all of it. Every year, a LEGO product is one of our bestsellers. This year, it has been LEGO Minecraft – the biggest seller, which has sold out.

The Frozen range is doing really well for us, too, and a month before Christmas, we were sold out of Frozen dolls.

Which products or companies hold promise for you in 2015?

LEGO Minecraft and Frozen ranges will be a big focus for 2015.

How do you plan for Toy Fair and do you buy there? It’s my first time at Toy Fair, but I will be organised. I already have some appointments.

JANE HOLTON Owner, Cheshire Toy Shop, Congleton, Cheshire Cheshire Toy Shop is a small toy-dedicated farm visitor attraction store on a Cheshire farm. It stocks pocket money toys and major brands including Brio Railway, Sylvanian Families, Djeco and Melissa and Doug. Previously a craft store owner, Jane set up this toy store in November 2013.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

The requirement for the set-up of the store a year ago was that it should complement the farm with relevant toy product suitable for farm day-tripping visitors. However, we have found that we are the only feel and touch toy store around here, so locals are using us, which means we have evolved and extended to toy gifts.

It’s been doing really well for us – both for farm-related pick-up products and for bigger toy gifts.

What is selling well now that will carry through to 2015?

We cater to mainly the 3-8-year-old market with some pre-school product. Brio Railway products do brilliantly for us, while Peppa Pig product tends to do well, too, being a farm location. Our second biggest sellers after Brio is Sylvanian Families.

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Which products or companies hold promise for you in 2015?

It has to be Sylvanian Families – we are in talks with them about major growth of product in 2015. We will also be looking for more arts and crafts materials, too.

How do you plan for Toy Fair and do you buy there?

This will be my first Toy Fair. I will visit all the displays of the brands we already deal with and meet with suppliers. As we are a small store, the intention is to keep the suppliers we have and squeeze the most out of what they have, so we will be focusing on our supplier stands, selecting key ranges to help us develop.

However, we will also be open to suggestions and will enjoy looking around.

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RETAIL INTERVIEW JOHN LEWIS

It’s real love The role of Head Toy Buyer for one of the UK’s most revered retail destinations comes with a lot of responsibility. Luckily, John Lewis’ Ian Elllis has his team to help him. TnP picked his brains to find out what products and licenses were best sellers this year, how the buying team splits the load and his thoughts on the industry Tell us a little about your background and how you got into the toy industry.

I have worked at John Lewis now for almost 10 years and was asked if I would consider a role swap with Elaine Hooper, the previous toy buyer.

And how has John Lewis’ toy business performed in general throughout 2014?

John Lewis has seen consistent sales throughout the year, and we are really pleased to have continually exceeded the overall market performance in toys. With some of our biggest weeks to come [at time of interview] we hope to see some great sales.

The overall performance coupled with the wider effects Little Live Pets, Character Options

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of weather at both the beginning and now at the end of the year will ensure a positive outcome for us.

I moved from beauty to toys, and while many might think that it’s a total change, it still uses the same principles and is focused around new launches, trends and a gifting focus. Prior to the move I had no involvement with toys and so joining the team in December 2013 was a big learning curve.

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The demand for Minecraft has been huge and I think there is still so much more to come from this brand

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What have been your top three selling products/ranges?

Like many other retailers we have seen very strong sales from LEGO this year, particularly LEGO City which is up there, along with Micro Scooters. We are really pleased though that the John Lewis wooden toy range is one of our top three ranges for 2014.

Has there been anything that surprised you? Perhaps something that exceeded all expectations, or caught on in a way you couldn’t have anticipated.

We always had great plans for

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LEGO City Coast Guard Plane & Fishing Boat

Top Three Best Sellers: •

LEGO City

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Micro Scooters

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John Lewis wooden toy range (own brand) The Hansa plush display inspired by Noah’s Ark

Little Live Pets from Character, and we have seen some great sales for these. Both the Little Live Pets Birds and Butterflies have been a real hit, beating all expectations.

An unexpected hit has been Sew Cool; we have huge numbers of customers searching for the Sewing Studio from Spin Master.

The big toy news from John Lewis recently was the unveiling

of an extensive plush animals range for Peter Jones. When did this idea blossom?

We have worked with plush manufacturers, Hansa, for a few years.

Last year we did a very small installation in the Oxford Street store, but we were inspired by their Noah’s Arc display on

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Both the Little Live Pets Birds and Butterflies have been a real hit, beating all expectations

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their Nuremberg Toy Fair stand and wanted to make something more dramatic, using our Peter Jones store to showcase it. You will see that Hansa have been great supporters and we have some of the large-scale plush in the windows now too, with more plans for 2015!

Why did you decide to launch this now? What does it add to your offering?

While the showcase pieces are the more expensive items, the main range that supports them was something we felt strongly about promoting. Kids who can’t have a pet or have a particular love of an animal get the chance to buy a life-like plush version.

You work closely with the rest of your toy buying team. What unique strength do you each bring to the table?

We have a very small team, with five members: two assistant buyers, two buying administrators and myself. We have to work hard to deliver the right assortment, and have to not only be own brand developers but branded selectors too. The team is a mixture of highly experienced and newer talent, and every member works really hard to make sure our assortment highlights the must-have brands

LEGO has been a best seller for John Lewis in 2014

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RETAIL INTERVIEW JOHN LEWIS

The flagship John Lewis store on Oxford Street

the hottest license, but some of the year’s movies like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have also been great. The demand for Minecraft has been huge and I think there is still so much more to come from this brand.

What unique shopping experience do you try to bring to shoppers at John Lewis?

The John Lewis environments, both in-store and online, are unique and are loved by our customers; the shopping experience is always consistent.

The toys market is considerable, and we hope that our assortment gives customers a curated offer of toys that meet their needs. This really drives a positive shopping experience.

With regards to the physical environment, we are always working on ways to bring theatre and interaction to the assortment.

What tips would you give independent retailers or novice

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buyers to develop a balanced product offering?

Some of My only advice on this is balancing between the ranges and must-have brands that plans we have are always in demand and already seen some of the classic play bode well for a patterns that are core great 2015 to a toy offering year in, year out. Many gift-givers throughout the year are looking for something they

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can relate to and often the basics are a great bet.

NPD data and a general upbeat attitude in the industry indicate 2014 has been a good year. Do you see this continuing into 2015? What are your thoughts on the overall health of the industry?

I think generally a number of things have played their part in delivering a solid year: some strong movies and new launches from a number of key brands, along with great seasonal weather to help outdoor.

We hope to see the toy category continue to perform in 2015.

Some of the ranges and plans we have already seen bode well for a great result.

Finally, any hot tips for what to watch out for next year?

I’m hoping that Toy Fair will bring some new news for 2015 to build on what we have already seen.

Let’s watch this space…

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RETAIL

OPINION

New year, new you?

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t’s the New Year and in case you hadn’t noticed from the plethora of ads and stories alerting you to the fact, it’s the time when traditionally we turn over a new leaf, have a minor spring clean and suchlike. Why this should happen from January 1 is anybody’s guess - the same could be done on any day of the year if the spirit were willing, except that it usually isn’t.

Given, therefore, that this is the point at which we are most likely to be susceptible to a new mind-set, what is to be done? Well the first thing is to look at how Christmas has been. Were there things that could have been executed more adroitly? The answer to this one is of course there were – you could have bought more of the best selling toys but this will be the case every year from now until the day you drop and there’s nothing to be done about it. Rather more to the point, how slick was your visual merchandising, did you do anything different from the competition and was the service you gave over and above that which might be expected?

It’s a racing certainty that you will have failed on at least one of these aspects, but the point is to improve upon what has been, so that you can make new and different mistakes next year. Having learnt a few lessons therefore, what’s the outlook for 2015 and is it a case of ‘getting clean’ (aka ridding yourself of the stuff that people didn’t buy…there really is a price for everything) and then thinking about what comes next?

And what are the options for the 12 months that lie ahead? Top of the list at the moment is probably marketing. Most retailers are actually not very good at this. The business of ‘channel convergence’ means that if you have a website (and yes, a lot retailers do these days) then efforts should be made to tie in the images that appear online with the appearance of your shop.

One of the best instances of this over the festive season just gone was John Lewis. By the time the big day arrived we’d all got used to Monty, the imaginary penguin friend of the department store retailer’s TV campaign and for those who’d made the trip up to Oxford Street, there were multiple Montys - props for the Christmas windows.

This is simple stuff, but it’s actually quite surprising how few retailers make the link and it’s a principle that holds good at any time of year, whether the medium is TV, the web or the store.

Even better, given the amount of collateral that the big toy brands tend to send out with their products, is to use some of it. They’ve made the marketing effort, so why not take advantage of this and see if some additional sales can be gleaned?

More broadly, are there things that others are doing which you really should, but somehow haven’t got round to? How is your data capture, for instance? Do you

know the birthdays of the recipients of products from your shop? If your business is selling toys, then it’s a fairly fundamental omission if you’ve not at least sought to obtain information of this kind and you have to ask why. Now might be the moment to put things right. You don’t even need computers to do this – a large notebook with names and addresses is the meat and veg of every aspiring journalist and something of the kind applies to technophobic toyshop proprietors.

And if you do have the names and dates, do you act upon this by sending a reminder to parents that it’s almost reach for the wallet time? If the same birthday happens to coincide with a slack time of year or trading isn’t all that, then perhaps accompanying this sort of message, online or physical, with a money-off voucher might prove the required call to action.

By this time, you’re probably saying this is all obvious stuff and so it is. The real point is however that there are legions who remain content to open the door, not do too much about anything and then to complain vociferously about the lack of shoppers who find their way to your shop. If nothing else then, do something. Examine your conscience and endeavour to work out what you could do. If it’s just one thing, make 2015 the year in which you really can say that you’ve done something different(ly).

Outside the six weeks of any year when every parent everywhere is looking for the right thing for their little darling, there are roughly 46 weeks when there is time for reflection, time to adjust and time to really consider whether you’ve been doing the right things for the last 20 or so years.

Growth in any form of retail tends to be incremental – if you’re lucky it will increase year by year, not by much, but because the economy may nudge it along.

If, however, you really want to see change and meaningful increases, then close scrutiny of the way in which you operate should be an almost daily requirement.

And this shouldn’t just be at the dawn of another year. January 1 is no more than an excuse – a point in the calendar when there is peer pressure to make a fresh start. It means nothing. You could, should and maybe just will alter your behaviour in 2015, but then again…

It’s the new year, it’s time for reflecting, time to implement change. But what will you do, asks John Ryan

John Ryan is Stores Editor at Retail Week. He has worked for the magazine for more than a decade covering store design, visual merchandising and what makes things sell in-store. In a previous life he was a buyer.

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THE INDEPENDENT

OPINION

Go big or go home While 2014 was a good year for the toy trade, The Independent still has some gripes with his suppliers

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s I sit down to write this article my mind is on anything but sitting down and writing this article! At the time of writing, it is a couple of weeks before one of the most loved dates on the calendar. Although I This year am freezing as I run out to has been customers cars helping them amazing for load their Christmas Club presents into their boots, sales, and and although I am extremely although this is thankful for our favourite probably quite man in the red suit and the controversial, I commotion he causes in my stores every year, as I look would suggest back over the last 12 months, that if you aren’t there are a lot of things trading well this that have annoyed me. This year compared year has been amazing for sales, and although this is to 2013 then you probably quite controversial, have to take a I would suggest that if you serious look at did not trade well in 2014 compared to 2013 then you your business have to take a serious look at your business and the purchasing that has been done.

There is really no excuse when it comes to the availability of product when comparing 2014 to 2013. Let me explain - Frozen, Minecraft, The

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The Independent’s top-selling toys for December 2014 VOLUME: 1) Snow Glow Elsa - Jakks Pacific 2) Frozen Elsa Musical Wand - Jakks Pacific 3) Little Live Pets Bird Cage - Character Options VALUE: 1) Snow Glow Elsa - Jakks Pacific 2) Xeno - Flair 3) Frozen Elsa Musical Wand - Jakks Pacific

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LEGO Movie, Loom Bands… need I say more?

And never mind the number of really sought-after products, the timing of everything was the cherry on top of the cake as far as my staff and I are concerned. Looms and The LEGO Movie came out early in the year and were fantastic at creating footfall and sales and then Minecraft kicked in. All the while we were waiting for the huge orders of Frozen stock to arrive, which they didn’t, but anything we did get sold and I suppose I have to be thankful for that to some extent.

But those are, for the most part, the only real positive things as far as anything goes that relates to our suppliers. I feel as if things are becoming stagnant.

Let me explain, I am not saying there is no new product out there and nothing is appealing. This is far from the case, but if I pick on some of my favourite suppliers for a moment to make a point I am sure this will help back up my thoughts a bit. These are fantastic companies and have come up with some of the most sought-after products on the market in areas where there used to be no product at all, and I take my hat off to them. However, the supply of said mentioned products has been a major disappointment to me. I have spoken to the companies in question and they were flabbergasted that the uptake was so quick and so strong. But surely they should have had the initiative to bring in a bit more than they did? It may be overly critical, especially as I have huge respect for the suppliers having to pitch for licences without having the slightest clue as to how children will take to the programmes. But these products, for me at least, were not a tough call to make. I ordered ranges

in as heavy as I thought I needed to and was anxious when it came into stock to see if my opinion was right and to jump straight on and get more.

But they were sold out within a couple of days from my delivery arriving. It is stuff like this that disappoints me.

The toy trade has gone from having masses of clearance products to having very little, and the answer to this is easy. Suppliers used to bring in more stock than necessary, and if they didn’t hit their numbers, clearance was created. But now everyone is running around scraping for the best of stock! If we try to put to the side that sometimes it is important to create the demand by controlling the supply, I wonder how many times the toy trade will shoot itself in the foot before it realises there is potential for so much more? If someone just had what it takes to say “this is a great line/range, and we are going to do TV and drive awareness like crazy to try and sell the stock we have committed to” instead of: “oh, I think this looks good, but lets take orders and then bring in a bit less than that and we can allocate stock to make sure we aren’t exposed”. I can only imagine what my sales figures would have been like this year.

If I had been able to recieve my orders in full, and been able to satisfy my customers.

Life would be a lot better than it is now, which is a mish-mash of elation and disappointment on my customers faces, further pushing them to order goods online without having to leave the comfort of their homes. * Our Secret Supplier is on a welldeserved break this month

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HIGH STREET

HIGHS

21st century shopkeeper Gary Grant , MD and Founder of The Entertainer, is joining Team TnP as our new columnists and will be giving his analysis on the state of the high street in the UK and of course the toy industry at large But first, we get to know Gary Grant a little better as he takes us through some of what it means to him to be in business and how he sells more and keeps smiles on the faces of customers

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pending the day with Gary in his Amersham branch was a real joy and eye-opener. It is no secret to any of us in the industry that the country’s largest independent toy store operator is passionate about toys, retail and the industry in a wider sense, but to see him in action working his store, bringing in the stock that has been ordered via click and collect and talking to the shoppers really highlights the intensity at which he works, and it is clear to see why The Entertainer is a much-loved and successful company.

When I ask Gary what drives him, he is quick to answer: ”Giving the shopper the best experience I can is the most pivotal element of my business” When I ask him how challenging it is to get it right, Gary

says:” It sounds obvious but it’s easy to give basic or poor service. Something my team and I, work hard to avoid” But evaluating the competition is surely an important part of succeeding in business? Gary certainly agrees:” At The Entertainer we look at the options customers have out there on the high street, in retail parks and online and see what we can do to better it, enhance it and make it feel different and more compelling.”

But how is that difference felt by the shoppers? For Gary and his team it is the old-fashioned value placed upon customer service that is really vital.

“All of The Entertainer staff help our customers when they come in-store, we try to give them a basket – this of course helps us sell more too – you can’t buy more than you can carry!

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We try to think about why people come into our store and we consider very carefully what they see and think of our shops, our staff and our offering.” And what is a consumer guaranteed when walking into a store?

“I want to be competitive and offer good value to the shoppers who walk in my stores. Suppliers sometimes see me as demanding but to me it’s obvious: if I can save on the costs I can then pass that saving on to the consumer. This means we sell more but also that the consumer feels goodwill towards both The Entertainer and the supplier for offering good value – how can this be a bad thing?” The reality is the category is highly competitive, but does Gary believe that a price war is a war that can be won? “Fair-pricing, rather than cheap-pricing needs to be the cornerstone of every business, and the consumer understands that. And after all, it isn’t all about price for the shoppers. Multichannel delivery options are playing a bigger part, particularly click and collect. We now have to be ready to service the customer on their terms. Store environment is also important, be that clear navigation, colour schemes, window displays, lighting and even music, all of which comes at a price. However, it helps create an ambience which is appealing.”

And what other elements help to create that point of difference and draw people into and back to The Entertainer?

“Friendly, attentive staff make the buying experience so much better and is part of the draw to make a return visit. Today here in Amersham, I was really delighted to see so many familiar faces; people who came into the store as young parents with their little ones who are now grandparents and come in as third generation shoppers!”

And for Gary, what is the biggest test facing toy retail? “I think the challenge toy shops have today is how to be cutting edge yet offer the best of a traditional toy shop. Addressing this challenge and making a success of it makes you a 21st century shopkeeper; a retailer in the classic mould, at the heart of the community, offering tradition, a touch of nostalgia perhaps, but all with a polished and modern outlook.”

Gary goes on to make an interesting point about the relationship between the consumer and the retailer – be they a boutique, independent, major or grocer.

“The consumer currently has very little trust in retail – look at recent fake profit-posting and food scares – so giving them an outlet which operates in a more time-honoured way, which is what The Entertainer strives to do day in day out, seems to appeal” Read more about how Gary and his team at The Entertainer create differences in retail and for the consumer in the next issue of TnP.

For Gary Grant and his team at The Entertainer it is essential to keep some key differences between themselves and the competition

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SPONSORED FEATURE BUYERS’ BURNING QUESTIONS SCIENCE4YOU

Now for the science bit Science kits are growing in popularity as parents seek out the newest and most fun g a new phase and innovations to aid their child’s learning. Science4you is entering e plenty to offer offering consumers something new and exciting, and they have or themselves when retailers too. Find out what the Science4you team had to say for we posed questions put to them from retailers

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f someone were to tell you that there is a toy company out there which is bigger than Hasbro but you’ve probably never heard of it, let alone stocked its products, you might not believe it. But there is. And they produce science kits.

Yes, you read it correctly, science kits.

Science4you is a young company, it was founded seven years ago, in Lisbon, Portugal. The brainchild of Miguel Pinas Martin, who at the time was embarking upon his final year at university in Portugal and was asked to set up a company for his final year project. The requirement was that it had to be based on science, and so Science4you toys was born.

Miguel’s aims for Science4you

Miguel Pinas Martin

toys are simple - to educate children all over the world with fun at the forefront.

Miguel’s ambitions seem to be resonating very well with parents and learning establishments, he has secured an endorsement for the educational aspect of the toys from Oxford University, and the take up in his native Portugal has been phenomenal.

Science4you toys sold six million euros worth of science kits last year - beating some very major toy companies. Considering the population of the country is less than 10.5 million, that is quite an amazing feat.

But Miguel’s ambition was to grow and to sell more. Which is why the UK is such an important territory. After all, we are the

biggest market in Europe and rather like the song New York, New York, “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere”, and so it was that Miguel began his business relationship with John Harper, former head of Mattel and more recently Hasbro, and of course, TnP columnist.

As you may remember having read John’s columns in TnP recently, he is mentoring to businesses, one in licensing and a toy company - Science4you of course.

John got to work on reworking the packaging and looking at a sales force. For John and Miguel, the first port of call was Mike Barratt.

“This is a really exciting venture for me,” revealed Mike. “In all my years in the toy industry, this is one of the most exciting line of products and opportunities I have come across.”

But what can Science4you toys offer? We asked Miguel and Mike to give us the nitty gritty on why Science4you can offer you, the buyers and retailers, a terrific deal and some superb products which have a proven track record of high consumer demand and engagement.

What’s different about Science4you kits versus others that are on the market?

Miguel: We offer quality, education and fun that cannot be eclipsed by any other product on the market.

Our kits are packed full - we don’t sell you air! With that comes an

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utterly unique element - a 32 page booklet which helps kids and grown ups learn about the experiments and the general science behind the experiments and beyond. Also, we have a non commercial endorsement for our products from Oxford University.

They independently chose to give Science4you a seal of approval for the educational quality of our toys. That is an utterly unique element to our kits. We are not ‘science lite’ - we are authentically educational but with lots and lots of fun.

needs of our customer. We can create a totally new sku based on what the customers requires which could be an exclusive if desired.

And as Mike says, because we produce and manufacture we can do it time and very importantly cost effectively. We know the key to success is differentiation and we can offer that to any channel or outlet.

What are your lead times?

Mike: For your first order it would probably take about month, but any repeat order takes an average of three days.

Now that is unheard of - we offer you something nobody else can.

Do you offer good value and margins?

Mike : Science4you represents terrific value.

Because all the products are made and assembled in Portugal by the Science4you team of 50 strong employees, we can deliver fast and our overheads are trimmed because there is no shipping from China and lots of layers to work through. It’s all in-house which means you will get a much better than average margin.

Are you trading terms attractive?

Mike: Working with Science4you is a little bit like working FOB but without the pain! It is easier in the cash flow, it doesn’t tie up your stock and warehouse space. And as I said, we can offer you a strong margin - no agents, no expensive shipping from China and it’s super quick. There really are so many advantages.

How can independents and majors differentiate themselves with your science kits?

Miguel: Because we handle all he production, we are agile, flexible and open to trying the new. So, we can tailor our offering to meet the

Miguel: We have more than 300

How broad is the range?

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products on sale in Portugal, but for the UK we have selected the best selling 25. They are particularly appealing to girls and some have greater boy appeal. We also produce full size kits and mini kits.

YOU CAN MEET WITH THE SCIENCE4YOU TEAM AT THE FOLLOWING SHOWS: London Toy Fair: Gallery 122 Nuremberg Toy Fair: Hall 5 B43 Spring Fair: Hall 5 L15 * The Sales Partnership are at London Toy Fair on Stand E21

Tell us about the mini kits.

Mike: They are reduced versions of the main kit with an RRP of £3.99 but with no compromise on quality, fun or education - they are all still fully working kits. The advantages are great through to both consumer and retailer. For the consumers, it is a kind of try before you buy and to the retailer it is a small, spontaneous purchase which can be stacked at point of sale. Great pocket money item, great for party bags and stocking fillers or a nice little reward? It has real charm and fun.

And our fantastic margins still apply here too.

What kind of price points are we talking?

Miguel: For the larger set £19.99 but for the mini kit it is £3.99.

That again is a first for a science kit.

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SPONSORED FEATURE BUYERS’ BURNING QUESTIONS SCIENCE4YOU

educational and that helped families spend time together. But that Science4you addressed all these needs. The mini kits can tempt the nervous parent while the seasoned science kits purchaser will really appreciate the quality, value and breadth of experiments that one gets from a full size kit.

What are the strong selling points to the consumer?

Mike: Miguel has really developed the products with lots of feedback and interaction from mums. All the work that has gone into packaging and marketing for the UK market has come from working closely with mums and kids and focus groups to truly understand what they are looking for. Parents love the educational element while the kids talked about how much fun it was. Many of the parents felt they struggled to find a toy or activity that was fun and engaging but also

What’s your strategy for engaging with the consumer?

Miguel: We have already started with our consumer engagement strategy in that we are working with some terrific bloggers, mums’ groups and parenting websites. The feedback we have received from them has been very strong and has given us even more confidence. We have a large social media program that we have launched too and will be doing giveaways to help build the brand awareness. For us, it is about understand the mothers’ needs and then not just meeting them but exceeding them. We only produce the best, nothing but the best and it is this commitment to producing the best quality, the most fun and the clearest education which gives us authenticity and credibility.

How do we get in touch to see the range?

Mike: Speak to me or indeed The Sales Partnership who will be distributing in certain channels and working alongside me. Miguel, The Sales Partnership and I are looking forward to meeting with more of you and seeing you at London Toy Fair to show you our range and to start a relationship with you all.

Education and fun!

Science4you provides a 32-page book featuring more infomration and even more experiments that can be carried out with each kit. A unique point of difference

For sales enquiries and more details about Science4you toys, call Mike Barratt on 07771 763 818 or email on mike@mikebarratt.com

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN Here are seven of Science4you’s most popular products Slimy Factory - Slippery Slugs Soap Factory First Steps in Geology - Volcano Mini Kit - Soap Factory Mini Kit - Slimy Factory Mini Kit - Perfume Factory Mini Kit - Cooking Science ce e

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toysnplaythings.co.uk toysnplayth toysnpla ayth hings.co.uk

29th - 31st March 2015 Harrogate International Centre

The UK’s only international nursery industry trade show!

Space still available to join the growing list of toy companies exhibiting at this year’s show!

‘Harrogate is my favourite show for nursery and baby products. There’s such a wide array of exhibitors and we always end up finding something new. We specialise in affordable, quality items which have a developmental benefit and we’ve had a very productive show on that front.’

Debbie White, Happy Humbugs (retailer)

www.nurseryfair.com

BUSINESS

DRIVER

Let’s get started…

As someone familiar with starting up their own business, John Harper has a few words of wisdom to share

S

uccessful start-ups find niche markets where larger businesses aren’t competing. In the toy market today it would be very difficult for a start-up to take on Hasbro globally in the boys action figure category or Mattel in the fashion doll sector. The big corporations have global muscle and they use it, but this still leaves numerous opportunities for smaller companies to compete in. In starting up Hedstrom UK in 1998 I identified that the outdoor play equipment market had been neglected for many years. There was a lack of innovation and, with the possible exception of TP, no-one had successfully established a quality brand name in this sector. It was not a category the big companies were likely to get involved in and I saw it as an ideal start up opportunity.

The two start-up companies I am now working with have both identified niche opportunities where they can build a successful business. For Libby at We are Bloom this involves securing the licenses for speciality brands such as Designers Guild and Pretty Polly. These are not mass market brands, but Libby still sees considerable potential in expanding these brands into related product categories through licensing. Having worked with Libby for confident that her vision, sometime now, I am con will enable her to build a creativity and insight wil with this successful licensing business busi strategy. Miguel’s vision visio at Science4You is to help improve the education standards ed for developing science based fo or children by develop products pro roducts that are both educational and fun. science-based n. The company develops dev artss and craft products. product This toy category is dominated smaller companies in do ominated by small mostt countries, but no one company has successfully succe essfully built up a brand globally.

Science4You currently setting up a Scien nce4You are curren subsidiary market as a first step subsi sidiary in the UK mar

towards a stronger global presence. If Science4You can expand internationally they won’t be a small company for long!

So, if start-up companies are to be successful, then first and foremost they need to find a niche opportunity that isn’t being fully exploited. This niche might be a smaller product category such as the outdoor play equipment market with Hedstrom, or it could be a specific country opportunity within a larger product category. Vivid Imaginations have executed the specific country strategy to perfection over the years. Indeed the Vivid business started with the Captain Scarlet brand and then followed this up with Thunderbirds. Both of these brands competed against Hasbro in the boys action figure category, but because they were mainly UK specific opportunities Vivid were able to compete effectively against Hasbro in the UK. In addition to selecting a niche opportunity, start-up companies need to exploit this by being fast to market.

For larger companies such as Hasbro and Mattel, the product development cycle tends to be 18 months plus.

For smaller companies and start-up businesses, this can be 12 months or less.

This opens up opportunities for start-ups that larger companies can’t exploit. If a new property needs to get to market quickly, for example, then start-up companies have a distinct competitive advantage.

Finally, start-ups and smaller businesses need to exploit their niche opportunity by finding likeminded partners in other markets in order to get their products more widely distributed. Setting up their own subsidiary in a few markets is possible, as with Science4You entering the UK market, but in most cases they need to find distributors in other markets. These additional sales are critical to start-up companies as it enables them to amortise their cost base. The products are already developed and so distributor sales add very little to the costs, while also helping to drive down production costs per unit.

In summary, successful start-up businesses need to identify a niche market opportunity and then exploit it effectively.

From his beginnings at Palitoy where he launched their Video Games software business, to MD at Fisher Price in the 90s, starting up Hedstrom in 1998, to more recently, European Euro President of Hasbro and now, as a mentor and coach to young entrepreneurs in the industry – there are few highs or lows that John hasn’t seen and been part of!

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SPONSORED FEATURE CHICCO TOP 20

Find us a t Stand:

Chicco has 20 20 vision

Gallery 124

Chicco has a mission: to make h babies and children smile. With 015 5, these 20 stand out toys for 2015, ts s the company is sure to reach its ce of of goal and put a smile on the face buyers and retailers too Chicco’s 2015 range is packed with exciting and innovative toys s full of fun and ds sure to sets kids imaginations on rrific fire. With a terrifi s too, mix of licences y the new Disney partnership has as led to the creation ation of superb quality ity and very beautiful tiful toys, Chicco can an offer more joy than ever before. Here ere is Chicco’s top 20 0 toys to not miss during ring the fair season. n.

Chicco & Disney Dream High Chair Toy Holly John, Product Manager Toys says: “Mealtimes will be livened up with this fun Cinderella highchair toy that uses the key themes from the classic story. A pumpkin transforms into a carriage by spinning it and an amusing rattle sound will engage little ones. Hearts, crowns and a picture of Cinderella all add to the magic - perfect for a royal meal.”

Cinderella Dancing Spinner Cath Needham, Customer Development Manager says: “This classic toy has been transformed into a stunning dancing spinner with the introduction of Cinderella in her ball gown. When little ones press Cinderella down the transparent balls will spin, creating a captivating swirl of colours with mice and bird characters.”

Bambi cot mobile Scott Blease, Customer Development Controller says: “Disney fans will be delighted with our new Bambi cot mobile, and babies will love the Bambi and Thumper character pendants, both are very cute and friendly! As well as the rotation movement to help babies drift off to sleep, the mobile projects images of Bambi and has a range of musical effects. The projection changes colour automatically to the rhythm of the music, which all combines to make a magical bedtime.”

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Snow White and 7 Dwarfs Musical Cottage Giulia Toselli, UK Strategy and Brand Manager says: “There is so much fun to be had with the Snow White Cottage, it captures the true essence of the fairytale thanks to all of the wellthought out details. Little ones can see the seven dwarves by pushing the apple to open the window and listen to the enchanting melodies. Slide the friendly squirrel along the roof, or press the turtle and his head will pop out.”

Snow White’s Magic Mirror Natalie Jackson, Customer Development Controller says: “This beautiful Snow White mirror will be cherished by any fan of the Disney Princess. What makes it so special is that when you press the heart shaped button, Snow White’s face becomes a mirror which lights up and music begins to play.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

TEAM CHICCO HEADED UP BY:

Turbo Team Mitch Levene

Giulia Toselli

Jon Tilley

Managing Director

UK Strategy and Brand Manager

Customer Development Director

Fiat 500 Sport Holly John, Product Manager Toys says: “Introducing our newest member of the Turbo Team - the Fiat 500 remote control car! Not only cute and fun, but it’s controlled using a steering wheel shaped remote, which even features a horn. Little ones and parents are sure to have hours of fun with his friendly face and speedy wheels.”

Stop and Go Playset Giulia Toselli UK Strategy and Brand Manager says: “ We’re thrilled at Chicco with the first accessory to add to the Turbo team range, the Stop and Go Playset Garage. An amusing medicinal and electronical playset with lights and sounds. Play with the mini Tourbo Touch pull back race cars included so little ones will be entertained for hours, racing the cars and taking a pit stop at the garage!”

Stunt Cars Billy Big Wheels Scott Blease, Customer Development Controller says: “Billy Big Wheels is one of our best selling remote control toys. A bright yellow monster truck, kids will love racing this cheeky chappy around. His headlights illuminate and the motor roars, bringing extra smiles to budding off-roaders.”

Natalie Jackson, Customer Development controller says: We think the six new colours of our Turbo Touch cars are fantastic and there is something for everyone to love! These cars are fast and furious and will keep little ones on their toes, pressing them down and then sending them zooming off and away. To add to the fun, each car performs a special stunt – choose from a wheelie, a two-wheel drive or a brake turn. They’re all equally impressive!”

Turbo Touch Crash Jon Tilley, Customer Development Director says: “Our three Demolition Derby cars hide a fantastically fun surprise – not only do the cars make a real tyre screeching sound, when they bump into an obstacle the doors and bonnet fling open! Little ones will love crashing them, putting them back together, and starting the fun all over again!”

JANUARY 2015

39

SPONSORED SPONSORE ED FEATURE CHICCO TOP 20 0

Mini Golf Club Jon Tilley, Customer Development Director says: “This is the latest addition to the Fit & Fun range, and it’s a hit already! Little ones will love the lights and vibrant colours that make this toy super entertaining while they play either golf training or hit the target.

Perfect for playing alone or with friends, it’s sure to score highly on children’s favourite toys list.”

Monkey Strike Holly John, Product Manager Toys says: “Monkey Strike is a great toy to help toddlers develop their coordination skills in a imaginative way. The brightly coloured monkey character skittles will be loved by kids of all ages.”

Balanskate Mitch Levene, Managing Director says:

Fishing Island Cath Needham,

Customer Development Controller says: “Fishing Island is a firm favourite here at Chicco and little ones are sure to get along swimmingly with this fantastic toy! The set helps children to build their accuracy skills, with the fishing rod suggesting which fish to catch and giving feedback when they get it right.”

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“Balanskate is a fantastic multifunctional toy that grows with a child, great for little ones to get years of play and great value for parents! Move from a balance board to a scooter, then a skateboard, all perfect for helping toddlers develop balance while exploring the world.”

Goal League Scott Blease, Customer Development Controller says: “Budding football stars will have hours of fun practicing and developing their motor skills with our Goal League game. With three modes to choose from, toddlers can keep playing in lots of different ways so there’ll never get bored.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Best of the rest Animal Cottage Giulia Toselli UK Strategy and Brand Manager says: “As well as being a lively shape sorting nursery toy, Chicco are proud to donate money from every sale of this best selling toy as part of our ‘Happiness Goes from heart to heart’ project. The money raised goes towards surgical heart operations to save the lives of children less fortunate that us.”

Sunset Cot Panel Cath Needham, Customer Development Controller says: “Introducing our beautiful Sunset Cot Panel, as part of our First Dreams range. The Sunset Cot Panel features gorgeous colours and uses lovely soft lights and soothing melodies to create a relaxing atmosphere.

There are two projection effects – sunrise, which becomes brighter over a 20 minute time frame, and sunset, where the light fades over the same length of time. The panel also has a sensor which activates when the baby wakes and soothes them back to sleep.”

Musical Tales Singing Bear Mitch Levene Managing Director says: “We’re really excited about the addition of our Musical Tales Talking Bear to our bilingual range of toys. Helping kids to learn French in an engaging and interactive way, Talking Bear has plenty of adventures to share from the countryside to the seaside, and even on an aeroplane!”

Yellow Thunder Balance Bike Scott Blease, Customer Development Controller says: “Children will love the sense of freedom on this new balance bike. It will help them to learn balance on two wheels so they can move up to a bicycle with pedals.

Not only will they learn valuable skills, the new Cross Runner balance bike looks super cool too!”

U/GO Trike Holly John Product Manager Toys says: “This sporty number will capture the hearts of all adventurous pre-school children. In a choice of Pink Rosa, Ducati Red or White, the removable adult handle bar means parents can help out in the early stages before letting little ones pedal freely as they grow in confidence. A must have for 2015!”

Pink Rosa U/GO O Trike

JANUARY Y 2015

White U/ U/GO /G GO Trike

Du Ducati ucati Red U/GO Trike

4

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The one show Galvanised by a fantastic year of trading, the toy industry focuses its attention on Toy Fair 2015. TnP caught up with the organisers at the BTHA as well as returning and first time exhibitors to answer all the necessary questions in the run up to this year’s show...

A

fter the climactic furore of Christmas, the casual observer could be forgiven for thinking that January is down time for the toy industry. With the festive season kicking off increasingly early in the year, the busy period lasts longer than ever before, and by that standard January is certainly quieter. But for those of us in the know, the excitement has just begun.

The start of each year brings every link in the supply chain together - from suppliers, manufacturers and retailers to safety experts and logistics service providers - to map out the next 12 months, show and see new products and reveal secret projects that have been in development for months, sometimes years.

Yes, January means Toy Fair, and with it the opportunity to get hands-on for the first time with all the new toys and innovations manufacturers and suppliers have been busy developing.

But before we dive headfirst into what this year’s show holds and why Toy Fair 2015 will undoubtedly be a must-attend event, let’s step into the (comfy, flat) shoes of our not-so-

42

distant future selves and get into the right frame of mind.

You step into Olympia’s Grand Hall on the opening day of Toy Fair 2015, Toy Fair Daily in hand, fresh lanyard around your neck, comfy shoes on your feet and the excited buzz of conversation echoing from the barrel roof high above. Before you sprawls a sea of colour.

Kerry Paternoster, Brand new toys in all Marketing Manager, shapes and sizes – some Vivid – Toy and familiar, some yet unknown – perch spotlit Drumond Park and shiny on their displays. Familiar names hang overhead, and something catches your eye from the Gallery above. Toy Fair has begun, and you have three days to experience it all.

It’s this snapshot from the show floor that draws the crowds of retailers and buyers, licensors and creatives to the show each year.

As Kerry Paternoster, Marketing Manager, Vivid – Toy and Drumond Park says: “The best thing about Toy Fair is seeing all

“

THE BEST THING ABOUT TOY FAIR IS SEEING ALL THE BRANDS DISPLAYED IN ALL OF THEIR GLORY

”

• Toy Fair 2014 • Kensington Olympia • January 20-22 • Doors open 9am-6pm • www.btha.co.uk/toy-fair

the brands displayed in all of their glory.”

If nothing else, Toy Fair is a spectacle and a treasure trove for retailers. Whether you are on the hunt for traditional, tech, or trenddriven toys, you’ll find it all at Olympia between 20-22 January 2015. It’s the ideal place to find the next big thing, a quirky take on a traditional staple, or a re-imagining of a classic brand – and this year’s exhibitors are bringing out all the stops.

“VTech is excited to launch a number of great new products at Toy Fair 2015,” says Clive Richardson, Marketing Director at VTech. “With developments to much loved ranges as well as brand new additions in different categories, the range includes innovations in technology and continues to promote quality learning and development for children of all ages.”

Toy Fair has always been a prime event for companies to launch their latest and greatest products and brands; with so many buyers, retailers and decision makers in the same place it just makes sense. It’s an exciting time for all involved, and each Toy Fair brings with it its own promises and set of possibilities.

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Majen’s must-sees!

Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair Operations and Sales gives the inside track on this year’s show highlights: Toy Fair TV – Keep an eye on the 24 screens around Olympia airing Toy Fair TV. Filmed live across the three days and hosted by presenters Anna Williamson and Gavin Inskip, it is a fantastic opportunity to discover new products outside of appointments.

Toy Fair Best New Toys – Head up to the press office on the gallery level where you will find 2015’s Toy Fair Best New Toys. These new products are the cream of the crop when it comes to toys being launched at Toy Fair, and have been selected by an independent panel of retailers.

Relaxation Lounge – We know Toy Fair can be a busy day with back-to-back meetings, but find time to head up to the Relaxation Garden for 15 minutes and get a well-deserved massage!

(And, of course, see the incredible range of products on show!)

With the industry spurred on by a strong and reinvigorating year of sales, this year’s show is primed to be the best yet, and the exhibitors’ enthusiasm says it all.

“We love what we do at Famosa, so we hope the trade and our visitors love what we are introducing for 2015 too,” says Famosa’s Nikki Jeffery. She believes that because these products are brand new, the only way to truly see their quality is to get hands-on on the show floor.

“Toy Fair is a great opportunity to see everything all under one roof and have a play. This is hard to do via images and emails, so it’s a great chance to get up close and personal

JANUARY 2015

has progressed,” she says. “There are always late additions that come through from Hong Kong that are sometimes showcased at Toy Fair for the first time so it is always worth the visit. Vivid, for example, will be showing a newly refreshed product that has had huge success in the past, called Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey, and will be announcing the securing of a heritage pre-school brand that will launch in late A/W15.”

And it’s not just the big names and Simon Hedge, MD/ established brands in the CEO, GP Flair spotlight. First time exhibitors and start-ups can be found in the

“

LONDON ESPECIALLY IS VITAL FOR SHOWCASING OUR BRANDS AND GETTING VITAL FEEDBACK FROM OUR CUSTOMERS

”

with the complete buying catalogue,” she says.

Toy Fair is arguably the best way to see the products in their final forms this early in the year, and Kerry says retailers are missing a trick, and perhaps some surprises, if they don’t visit.

“Often buyers won’t have seen finished product Nikki Jeffery, Famosa: Book appointments in advance with anyone you at preview stage, need to see. Trying to pin someone down at the show is tricky! so if they don’t attend Toy Fair Kerry Paternoster, Marketing Manager, Vivid Toy and Drumond Park: Wear they are likely to flat shoes and always carry a bottle of water around with you, as the day is miss out on pretty jam-packed. seeing Andy Oddie, Managing Director, Underground Toys: Use the guides and something that maps available and set up appointments where possible. Don’t forget to go upstairs!

EXHIBITOR TIPS

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Toy Fair’s Greenhouse... ...is the place to go if you’re after creative start-ups and the quirkiest new enterprises. Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair Operations and Sales explains why missing this part of the show could mean missing out on the next big thing.

Greenhouse, a specially signposted area of the show that houses the freshest companies breaking into the market. Here you’ll find the quirky, the niche, and down right genius.

Despite their relative size, Greenhouse exhibitors mean serious business, and it has housed some of today’s prominent names when they were in their fledgling stages – the likes of Indigo Jamm and Flying Gadgets to name just a couple.

“

ANY VISITORS SHOULD KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR INNOVATION AND ADVANCEMENT, AS THIS IS IMPORTANT TO THE TOY INDUSTRY

Stars of the stand To whet your appetite, TnP spoke to some of this year’s exhibitors to find out a little more about the stars of their stands this year.

Retailers searching for licensed toys to capitalise on the movie and TV slate for 2015 – a year that experts predict could see the highest cinema admissions for 40 years – will want to stop by the Underground Toys stand. “On our stand you’ll find our range of over 2000 items from just about every major TV and movie property relevant to 2015,” says Andy Oddie, Underground Toys’ Managing Director. “Key ranges include POP! Vinyl, Star Wars feature

44

”

Clive Richardson, Marketing Director, VTech

"The Greenhouse area is a must attend section of Toy Fair 2015, located in the centre of the Grand Hall. The 2015 show will play host to 43 exhibitors ranging from brand new companies, entrepreneurs and small sized manufactures, some of which will be looking to make their first stamp on the industry. It is a hive of activity over the three days and could prove to be as valuable of a visit alongside some of the larger renowned brands on the main show floor. Over the last 11 years since the area was first created, the Greenhouse has hosted innovative, intuitive and exciting companies that have used the Greenhouse Area as a launchpad to showcase their fantastic products and ideas. The likes of Micro Scooters (stand B45), Bladez Toys (Gallery 123), Indigo Jamm (stand H42), Pants on Fire (Gallery 435), Insect Lore (stand D20) and Flying Gadgets (stand H50) all started their Toy Fair lives at Greenhouse exhibitors and can now be found on the main show floor. With a large percentage of companies situated in the Greenhouse Area being new companies or first time exhibitors, the area is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to discover new concepts, trends and brands that have the potential to capture the imagination and refresh their merchandising programmes.

Visitors should absolutely set aside time in their schedule to check out the Greenhouse Area and perhaps uncover a hidden gem."

plush, Marvel feature plush, Sherlock and Doctor Who.” And there are exciting developments from one of Famosa’s most popular brands on its stand.

“Pinypon has been our star for 2014. We have seen huge success both at retail and with our brand outreach to consumers,” Nikki says. “We can’t wait to unveil the new line extensions which is just going to add weight to the popularity and appeal of this fabulous brand!”

Over on the VTech stand, there’s more technology innovation fresh from the lab. “In electronic learning there will be a couple of big new products that we will present for the first time at London Toy Fair,” says Clive. “We have lots of innovative product launches in the pipeline for our existing categories and we are also entering some new categories for the first time, such as the girls collectible line called Flipsies.

Wearable technology is going to be a trend that continues in 2015 so visit

the VTech stand to see how we will be maximising that.”

The rise of the tech toy defined the big-ticket market in 2014, and that trend looks set to continue.

There is even more tech developments from the team behind Vivid’s hit connected doll, viewable for the first time at Toy Fair.

“We have new innovation coming through from the team who brought us My Friend Cayla. There is iQue, an interactive articulated Robot and for pre-schoolers My Friend Teddy,” says Kerry Paternoster. “Plus, Real FX, with the use of Artificial Intelligence, has made simulated real car racing possible in homes for the very first time. Real FX, the world’s most

toysnplaythings.co.uk

r i a F y o T t a u o y See Stand

0 0 5

VTech is excited to launch a number of greatt new products at the 2015 London Toy Fair.

With developments to much loved ranges as well as brand new additions in other categories.

Visit our stand to see more!

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Preparation game!

Get a head start with Majen’s pre-show checklist...

Book appointments – Take a look at the regularly updated floor plans and exhibitor list on the Toy Fair website (www.toyfair.co.uk) and book appointments with the companies you’d like to see.

While many of our exhibitors will try and accommodate you where possible it is always advisable to book an appointment in advance to avoid disappointment.

Leave empty slots in your diary – While you will have companies you have booked to see, leave space in your diary to be able to explore and discover new toys and companies. At some stage, all companies started as a small exhibitor trying to get noticed. You could discover the next big craze at Toy Fair!

Show offers – A couple of days before arriving at Toy Fair, check the Toy Fair website for exhibitor show offers. Some of our exhibitors hold exclusive offers only available to Toy Fair visitors so it’s worth checking.

realistic racing system ever created breakthrough in the in RC, brings a break category.” electronic cars categ course the stars of The toys are of co the show, but there’s plenty to keep periphery. Toy Fair TV up with on the periph broadcast across is back and will be br a greater number of screens dotted around Olympia this year. Presenters Anna Williamson and Gavin Inskip Zone, bringing will host the Demo Z product demos and more live from the show.

There’s also plenty to celebrate with the annual Toy IIndustry Association awards, held on the opening day. Plus the evening of the openi BTHA have their say with the awards 2015, an for Best Designed Stand St recognises the creative accolade that recogn use of stand space, rregardless of budget.

And Clive says that tha it’s vital for advantage of having visitors to take advan diverse portion such a sizeable and d

of suppliers to the UK market under one roof by considering the bigger picture – the industry’s offering as a whole. “Any visitors should keep an eye out for innovation and advancement, as this is important to the toy industry and is where VTech are always at the forefront,” he says. “This will help visitors identify the big trends of 2015.”

So with that it’s time to book-in those final appointments, and start planning your trip.

Luckily, TnP has you covered there, with our in-depth guide on who’s exhibiting and what they’ll be showing to give Judith Dayus, you the upper hand over Director, Great the next 100 or so pages.

Don’t forget to pick up Gizmos you copy of the Toy Fair Daily each day, which TnP proudly produces each year. We’ll be bringing you all the news from the show floor, coverage of all the awards, celebrity appearances, hot new product announcements and more. Plus, there will be expert insight and interviews with everyone from the industry’s leading suppliers to independent retailers to bring you the big picture.

Team TnP will be on the show floor, so stop us and let us know how the show is going if you see us, and Team TnP at stop by our stand, E1.

“

LONDON IS VERY IMPORTANT TO US AS IT IS OUR SHOWCASE FOR 2015 TO SHOW OUR CUSTOMERS OUR NEW PRODUCTS AND PROPERTIES.

”

Toy Fair

We Aske Asked...

What valu value you see in Toy Fair as an exhibitor?

“London Toy Fair allows us to showcase our products to a wide range of domestic dom customers. Character is a huge supporter of Toy Fair and always will be.”

Marketing Manager, Character Options Jerry Healy, M

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

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Cambridge Brainbox GH32 Cartamundi (UK) H1 Casdon E30 Century Logistics B99 Character Options E119 Cheatwell Games F20 Chicco Gallery 124 Cicada Education B49 Clementoni Spa Gallery 155 Click Distribution UK Gallery 105 Cloud b F100 Coiledspring Games B160 Cuckoo Gallery 330 D'Arpeje Gallery 190 Daedaleon GH18 Delta Kids H30 Destination Board Games GH13 DKL Marketing E66 Dracco UK E130 Drumond Park Gallery 440 DWSD Gallery 147a East Coast Nursery B56 Eduk8 Worldwide GH42 Egmont Toys Gallery 420 Epoch-Making Toys B130 Esdevium Games E109 Eurofins Product Testing Services GH6 Extreme Fliers H86 Famosa Gallery 400 Feel Good Art H40 Fiesta Crafts F66 First Celtic Toys and Learning E115 Flair Leisure Products E39 Floppets H92 Flying Gadgets H50 Flype GH40 Folkmanis Puppets H46 Funrise Toy Corporation Gallery 135 Funtime Gifts H15 James Bond Lounge G122 James Galt & Co E9 Gear For Games G120 Geemac - Thinkway Gallery 109 Gen 42 Games Gallery 425

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THE TOYMASTER MEMBERS LOUNGE

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Getretro.co.uk GH62 Gibsons E40 Gift Time GH24 Global Opportunities Gallery 165 Goki Gallery 199 Golden Bear Products E69 Goldfish & Bison E35 Good Toy Guide Gallery 154 Great Gizmos G20 Great Inflate Gallery 149 Green Board Game Company E15 Green Elephant Trading GH46 The Green Rubber Toy Co GH25 H Grossman E49 Haba UK F16 Halilit (Marnita) E90 Hama E66 Hasbro UK Gallery 620 Heimess Gallery 199 Holztiger Gallery 199 Hornby Hobbies D11 House of Marbles G110 HTI E125 i-spy Distribution B65 Imajo GH2 IMC Toys UK E129 Indigo Jamm H42 Info Desk E70 Ingo Devices UK D19 Injusa F90 Insect Lore D20 Intelligent Retail GH21 Interplay UK G10 Intertek G66 IVS Group Gallery 177 James Bond Lounge G122 Jazwares D99 John Adams Leisure G100 John Crane E20 Joluet Games GH59 Jumbo Games E46 Juratoys F50 K'Nex UK Gallery 510 K-Play International Gallery 199

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LONDON TOY FAIR

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Kapla France Sarl Kazooloo KD UK Keel Toys Kiddimoto Kidicraft KidKraft Kids@Play Kitfix Swallow Group Theo Klein Kriya Paul Lamond Games Lanka Kade Le Toy Van Leapfrog Toys (UK) Learning Resources Lego Company Lexibook Little Helper Little Tikes Lustrumlight MGA Entertainment M V Sports & Leisure Manhattan Toy Europe Marbel Marvin's Magic Melissa & Doug Micro Scooters Milly&Flynn Minigols Molto Mookie Toys Music for Kids NPD Group Orange Tree Toys Orchard Toys Oxford Diecast Padgett Bros (A to Z) Pants on Fire Games Papo UK Peterkin UK PDT Ltd Pink Chillies Playmobil (UK)

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Gallery 143 H95 Gallery 160 B35 H44 GH51 E79 Gallery 141 B60 D95 GH36 E50 F1 E10 B40 D36 B70 B18 H40 Gallery 540 B95 Gallery 540 B30 Gallery 315 B50 H65 F40 B45 B92 GH48 F36 E149 GH16 Gallery 146 B100 B12 Gallery 195 F15 Gallery 435 Gallery 128 Gallery 110 F110 G65 Gallery 210

Plum Products G90 Pocketbond / Toyway H22 Posh Paws International D89 Press Office Gallery 158 Proyectum Sport International GH48 The Puppet Company E16 Rainbow Colours GH19 Rainbow Designs E120 Ravensburger B156 Re: Creation E160 Relaxation Garden Gallery 142 Reliance Technical Service C42 Revell Gallery 100 Robbie Toys F90 Rockjam F110 Rolly Toys F90 Sakar International G29 The Sales Partnership E21 Sambro International G46 Schleich B121 Science4you Gallery 122 Simba Smoby Toys UK E140 Singing Machine F110 SJD Games GH31 Sluban UK & Ireland GH28 Smart UK Gallery 410 Sopio Cards GH53 The Source Wholesale Gallery 145 Spin Master Toys UK E131 Star Images H90 Stepping Stones Marketing GH15 T.A.R.E.M.A. F30 Tabletop Workshop GH39 Tactic Games UK D109 Taxi Board Game GH43 TCE Design t/a Top Century Enterprises (UK) H36 Tegu Toy Works GH20 Tell Tails GH4 TFTV Studio Gallery 153 TFTV Demo Zone Gallery 157 Thames & Kosmos G60 Titan Merchandise F111

TikkTokk UK D25 TKC Sales E99 Tobar Group Trading Gallery 305 Tomy Europe Gallery 610 Toy Essentials Gallery 147b Toy Trust Coffee Lounge Gallery 175 Toymaster London Room ToyNews E2 Toys N Playthings E1 Toy Retailers Association Gallery 176 Toy World GH37 Traditional Garden Games Gallery 144 Travis Designs G50 Trends UK B20 Trunki C45 Turner Media Innovations Lounge Gallery 130 TY UK Gallery 119 UL Café Gallery 520 UL VS United Kingdom B25 Underground Toys G120 University Games UK F10 Ur-Tubes GH50 Vertex Resourcing GH47 Vivid Toy Group E135 VTech Electronics Europe Gallery 500 Warlord Games GH1 West Design Products C60 Whitbread Wilkinson GH5 Wicked Vision E100 Wild Card Games H20 Willowbee G119 Wilton Bradley E89 Wind Designs H52 Winning Moves UK F101 Wooky Entertainment Gallery 180 Wow Toys G15 Zapf Creation (UK) Gallery 540 Zappies Gallery 152 Zeon F60 ZooBooKoo International GH49

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TOYFAIR GALLERY 144 • SPRING FAIR HALL 3 – 3P06 Email: sales@traditionalgardengames.co.uk

www.traditionalgardengames.com

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Look out for Mookie in 2015!

MOOKIE 01525722722 www.mookie-toys.co.uk

Mookie in 2014...

2014 has been another great year for Mookie with two number one products as well as several successful new launches.

Swingball had its most prosperous year for decades, with the All Surface Swingball being a top 10 item in total toys every month between May and August, reaching No.3 in total toys for July*. As a result it has been the number one item in Outdoor Games and Activities for 2014.

The Pillow Pets brand also continued to go from strength to strength in 2014 as Dream Lites became the number one item in Total Plush*, holding this position for the entire year. The brand also saw the introduction of Glow Pets in August; the plush that at illuminates your room with tiny yet powerful LED lights. Glow w Pets have had a great launch becoming coming the sixth biggest plush item**. **.

Smart Trike has continued to dominate the ride on markett with their innovative design and patented technology that at allows the trike to grow with ha child. Smart Trikes 4-in-1 and d 3-in-1 are now the No.1 and No.4 top items in Ride-Ons for 2014 YTD respectively.

The innovative fold away ride-on ScuttleBug has also had a great year in 2014, as it became the No.3 item in Ride Ons. As a result of these great 52

Stand: E149

brand performances as well as ScrambleBug, Whirlee and Mini Street Cruz, Mookie is comfortably the biggest manufacturer of Ride Ons in the UK.

What’s new in 2015?

2015 is set to be a very exciting year for Mookie with the launch of several new ranges and brands as the company aims to diversify into different categories. With the objective for Mookie being to continue to become an all year round toy company rather than a summer and outdoor specialist.

Toys Alive will be launching this summer with Mookie set to make a big impact in the electronic toy market. The flagship product,

“

LOOKING FORWARD, 2015 IS SET TO BE A VERY EXCITING YEAR FOR MOOKIE WITH THE LAUNCH OF SEVERAL NEW RANGES AS THE COMPANY ENTERS DIFFERENT CATEGORIES

”

Pebli Town, is the first multisensory connected learning toy that allows children to play with real toys in a virtual world. Pebli Town is expected to be one of the biggest toys this year, and will be supported by Mookie’s largest ever marketing and PR campaign, which mark includes a celebrity endorsement inclu and TV commercial. The Pebli range will also consist of extra rang expansion packs: Pebli Safari, expa Pebli Garage and a top licence.

P These expansion packs will T introduce characters old and new to the world of Pebli, offering kids a huge amount of educational and entertaining content, with a stories, games, create and sto videos. Mookie will be unveiling vi Fluffi Mals and Story Stars under F Mookie’s own IP at Toy Fair M London. These new soft toys aim to cement the company’s position within the Plush market. FluffiMals will target kids kids aged 3-8, offering a creative

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LONDON TOY FAIR

craft plush that allows children to design and produce their own teddy with its own personality and sparkling heart. The range will consist of four SKU’s to collect.

Fluffimals will be supported with a full marketing campaign including a TV commercial. Story Stars is aimed at children 3+ and is an app based story telling plush that will sit under the Toys Alive brand.

Story Stars allow children and parents to upload stories, music, lullabies and calming sounds to the cuddly plush from their tablet or phone. Each character also has a night light which projects a starry sky onto the ceiling. The range will consist of five SKU’s each with their own personality and back story. Story Stars will be supported by a heavyweight TV campaign as well as full marketing and PR support. 2015 will also see the launch of Wrecked Decks and an extended Createaway range.

Growing Brands Mookie will continue to support and develop their existing brands throughout the year as they look to build further on the success of 2014. TP Toys is set to make its debut on TV and Radio in 2015.

The campaign will aim to increase the brand recognition with parents and children and communicate its core values of heritage, quality and active fun. The Pillow Pets brand continues to prove incredibly popular with Dream Lites being

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the No.1 item in Plush for 2014 and the Pillow Pets brand being the No.4 Property. This year Dream Lites and Glow Pets will once again be heavily supported by TV as they are both set to be top plush items again. Tailball will be completely re-launched this year, with the support and endorsement of Judy Murray, as Mookie and Judy work to get more children playing tennis. Mookie are proud to hear that Judy says ‘Tailball is a genius invention. Not only does it look a lot more appealing than the average tennis ball, it moves more slowly, making it easier to hit.

And it doesn’t roll away. That’s the genius bit.’ After Judy’s success and public popularity in Strictly Come Dancing, she is now focusing on her true passion of helping to develop and improve tennis among children, and Tailball is set to be an essential item. In addition to Judy’s support, Tailball will be receiving a full re-launch including a more aligned range aimed at improving children’s tennis skills and fun child friendly sporty branding and packaging that showcases Judy’s endorsement. Tailball will be appearing on TV

alongside Swingball in the heaviest campaign Tailball has had to date. ScuttleBug and ScrambleBug are being rejuvenated by receiving new designs, packaging and branding with this being supported by a larger marketing campaign than ever before after the success of 2014. The folding rideon is aimed at children aged 1-3 has proven incredibility popular with parents and kids as they help to develop children’s balance, steering skills and coordination.

Mookie will be putting the Bugs on TV as well as working with bloggers to build the brand profile for 2015.

Mookie will be showcasing all of their new and exist products and brands at Toy Fair, Stand No. E149 as they get set for the biggest year in their history. * NPD Group Data 2014 ** NPD Group Data Month of November 2014

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Toys with fl air Flair

Stand: E39

0208 643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Boys, girls and those with creativity on their mind will all be delighted with the 2015 line up from GP Flair, which includes exciting new properties and stunning additions to favourite brands.

The eagerly awaited World of Warriors will be a must see and a major priority for Flair in the second half of the year. These new collectables will be the desire of every user of Mind Candy's new World of Warriors digital community and boasts figure packs in, 2s, 4s and 8s with 120 figures to collect in Series 1 alone. A Battle Arena Playset will be where fans can emulate the game play whilst Deluxe Action Figures with special move features will represent lead

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characters of the app. A collection of role-play accessories is also included in the launch with soft masks, shields and weapons. The marketing plan will match the importance the brand has in Flair’s autumn lineup with a robust sampling campaign which is scheduled prior to launch, plus heavy weight TV, digital and pre-roll activity plus instore sampling, character visits and swap days.

Spring sees the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles enter the pre-school scene with the launch of the HalfShell Heroes. With cuter pre-school styling, the collection will include figures, vehicles and playsets, plus an awesome Electronic Shellraiser.

The heroes of the range will be the Super Sewer HQ, which comes with two additional figures and over 50 phrases and sound effects, and the Mega Mutant Leo, with loads of Ninja action features and moving eyes.

The all new Season 3 TV Series debuts in spring 2015 kick starting the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles year.

The big news is that the Mutations range, the most successful

segment in Turtles history, has been revamped for a new generation!

Mix and Match your Turtles heroes and villains with interchangeable arms, legs and heads; with nine characters to collect fans can create their own turtley awesome character. The Turtle Brothers are also represented in the Mutations Deluxe Figures, which change from Pet Turtle to Ninja Turtle in seconds. The autumn season will get even more mutated with an amazing new playset that not only comes loaded with features but can also be used as storage for figures.

In the classic TMNT series the action takes on mega proportions with the autumn launch of four new mega deluxe figures. These 11” IR Talking Turtles come with a sensor so they can intercommunicate and activate special interactive features.

Mutant Mania is the ultimate mix and match wrestling mutant collectables. Mutant Mania has got off to a tremendous start; enjoying a successful US rollout.

These figures have true back bone as the unique feature of each is that it comes in several parts with a flexi spine. With 121 in Round 1 alone, there’s a colossal 1.8 million wrestling combos to create! Kids can collect as single cans or four and eight packs whilst playsets have inspired themes such as the Slambulance Mutant Masher and Rampage Arena. The launch plan will emulate that of Moose’s highly successful Trash Pack but early figures show almost double the sales at retail promising great future opportunities for retail partners. The inclusion of the WILD! Science brand in the GP Flair portfolio will bring with it a host of new opportunities for retailers. As an established leader in the children’s science kits arena, WILD! Science introduces simple,

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COME & SEE OUR FANTASTIC RANGES

TOBAR PRODUCTS

INTRODUCING TRODUCING 3 NEW GREAT BRANDS BRANDS: NDS

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W E N 0 0 1 TRIBUTION DIS

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We will be showing our products at the following shows, make sure you book an appointment with us!

Toy Fair, Olympia 20-22 Jan Gallery 305 0844 573 4299

Spring Fair, NEC 1-5 Feb 3K20-L21 sales@tobar.co.uk

Spielwarenmesse, Nuremberg 28 Jan-2 Feb 4F-95 www.tobar.co.uk

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scientific principles in a way that is both fun and interactive for kids.

With 11 kits (including two new for AW15) to choose from, refreshed modular packaging will make for attractive and easy display in-store, whilst Flair’s full marketing support will create even more awareness for the brand. As part of Flair’s commitment to the WILD! Science brand, lines from both the Girls and Boys ranges will benefit from TV advertising in AW15, in addition to digital, print and interactive campaigns.

Flair’s Cool Create division is the destination for innovative and fun creative play! This autumn sees a new portfolio that will potentially change the face of the creative market place. I-DO-3D is a revolutionary stylus containing a unique patented compound in a range of colours. I-DO-3D allows kids to transform 2D templates to 3D models using the four second air-dry miracle formula! I-DO-3D styluses will be available in a range of kits including “how to” guide templates. This will be supported by a similarly revolutionary marketing campaign.

In the world of Doc McStuffins, Dottie the little girl medic is turning her attention to healing toy animals. The Doc McStuffins Pet Vet series will see Dottie donning her new look paw print scrubs and introducing new pet toys to the patient list. A hero of the range will be the new Pet Vet Doc McStuffins doll whilst amongst the patient list, there’s Findo the Animatronic Puppy and Stuffy the Dragon’s furry pet, a remote control fluff ball

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called Squibbles. For her vet duties there will be new accessories such as the Vet Case and a Vet’s Book of Boo Boos.

Finally the new Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Desk and Pet Care Centre will allow children to create their own Pet Vet clinic at home making sure all their own cuddly toy animals are kept fit and healthy.

Flair’s girl’s portfolio will see a brand new pet collectable, Pet Parade, an adorable property with realistic, cute puppy breeds plus a host of accessories and playsets.

The 10cm puppy figures come fully articulated, allowing for realistic movements. Using a special ‘joystick’ button in the puppy’s back, girls can make their new friend walk and move their eyes, head and tail, just like a real puppy!

Watch the puppy pick up the bone and be taken for a walk using the special lead! Six dogs will be in the main range for launch, including a Labrador, Pug and Dalmatian, with an

additional three exclusive puppies to collect! These adorable pets come available as singles or duos, complete with collar, lead and bone. In addition, Deluxe Packs introduce two exclusive breeds with extra accessories such as an interactive Post Box playset and a multi-featured caring and training playset, with exclusive puppy and fun features such as ‘Chase the Butterflies’ and ‘Fetch the Ball.’

Finally fans of Shopkins will continue to ‘shop till they drop’ with the introduction of Season 3 of these highly sought after shopping inspired characters. The new season will see the introduction of themed segments within the range. The Food Spree will include quirky food themed characters and playsets such as the ‘Scoops’ Ice Cream Treat Truck.

The fashion spree collection will include fabulous playsets styled on shoes and makeup, not to mention a Fashion Boutique luxury playset, complete with various interactive features and accessories. Flair’s multi-platform marketing of the brand and the roll out of the licensing programme will add to the awareness and continue the Shopkins success story!

For more information about these and other new collections from GP Flair visit stand E39.

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C on stru

ction kits!

Activity kits!

ht oys !

Toys gifts and great ideas! e kit e nc Sc i

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s! y o t w oode n

Come and see us at

Toyfair!

Olympia, london 20 - 22 January 2015 Stand G20

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Let the magic get you for Chicco's Toy Fair debut CHICCO 01623750870 www.chicco.co.uk

Chicco are delighted to be attending the London Toy Fair for the first time ever in 2015, and will be adding a touch of magic to their first show as they unveil their brand new partnerships with two much loved brands – Disney and Fiat.

Chicco is thrilled to introduce its new partnership with Disney at the London Toy Fair. Walt Disney, top licensor and representing 41% of licensed toys globally sold, joins Chicco with two of its most appreciated and sold properties: Disney Baby and Disney Princess. Both licenses will have great focus from Disney in the following years thanks to ongoing airings and new movies. This longlasting partnership will cover an infant segment that is new for Disney Princess, complemented with Chicco’s knowledge and expertise in baby care.

The range will start with toys for 6 month to 12 month old babies, including lovely new toys such as a

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Stand: Gallery 124

Score with Chicco

Snow White mirror, a Cinderella highchair toy, a Cinderella spinner and an electronic Snow White Cottage. All of the new toys have been lovingly created and designed in collaboration with Osservatorio Chicco, Chicco’s official Baby Research Centre.

Paediatricians and parents work together to study stimuli and provide insight to assist in the growth and learning development of babies. Babies will be able to use the Disney Princess range to assist development of early tactile and coordination skills.

Elsewhere in the Chicco range, the Fit & Fun line, dedicated to stimulating kids’ motor skills, will be extended with the introduction of a Mini Golf Club. For two years and upwards, the new golf game will help to develop toddlers’ accuracy skills. The game’s lights and vibrant colours make it even more entertaining, while the two scorekeepers help players to keep track of their achievements. With two different modes, golf training or hit the target, there’s plenty to keep little ones amused for hours.

The Mini Golf will add to the already successful line of Fit & Fun toys. Starting with toys for younger children aged 18 months upwards, the Monkey Strike bowling set is ideal to help with coordination and consists of a set of six brightly coloured skittles and a bowling ball.

For children aged from 2 years, the Chicco Goal League electronic nets set helps budding football stars practice their motor skills, with goal

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feedback for every ball scored.

Also for toddlers aged 2 years old and upwards, the Fit & Fun Fishing Island was designed to help younger children practice their accuracy with 25 melodies and sound effects for when a fish has been caught. Finally, the Fit & Fun Balance Board features modes that allow the toy to grow with your child from a balance board, to scooter to a skate option.

A good night’s sleep with Chicco Mums and babies are also sure to love the First Dreams range. Chicco’s First Dreams range offers a selection of carefully designed products to soothe even the most fractious of babies and help everyone get a better night’s sleep. Combining music, soft lighting effects and transitional objects the range can be used from birth, and helps to create a magical bedtime atmosphere.

Goodnight Stars is a bedside projector that also plays classical music, a winning combination that has been designed to reassure babies and help them to fall asleep.

A magical carpet of colourful stars is projected onto the ceiling or wall whilst, the music plays continuously. The Rainbow Cube provides therapy through light, illuminating the bedroom with colour.

Offering three different projections in seven different colours, the Rainbow Cube can also be used as a modern and stylish nightlight as the baby grows up.

Goodnight Moon offers relaxing classical music and lights in an easy fit panel.

Designed to attach to

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the side of the cot, it features a soft toy to provide additional comfort to baby.

The Magic Stars Cot Mobile automatically soothes through light projection and music when crying is detected.

Offering duel projection, it casts images of coloured stars and planets on both the mobile and on the bedroom ceiling. The magic continues as the child grows; with a few simple adjustments it becomes a cot projector with nightlight, and the music can also be altered.

Parents can control the mobile via a handy infrared remote control.

And new for 2015 is the Sunset Cot Panel; a beautiful cot panel that features sunset colours and uses lights and soothing melodies to create a relaxing atmosphere, and helps the baby to relax. The panel has two different image projections, sunrise and sunset and 20 minutes of light effects and melodies.

All of the new 2015 toy collection will be on the Chicco stand at the London Toy Fair Show, so be sure to visit and join in the fun!

Racing ahead!

The exciting partnership between Chicco and Fiat further develops the already successful range of Remote Control Cars with a new radio controlled car for the 2015 range. Suitable for toddlers aged 2 years and upwards, the Fiat 500 is a cute little number controlled using a steering wheel shaped remote, which also features a horn! The Fiat 500’s friendly face is sure to win over little ones and parents as well. Fiat 500 RC will be another hero product in the already successful family of RC products by Chicco, such as Billy Big Wheels and Johnny Coupè.

The Fiat 500 partnership will also extend into Chicco’s Turbo Touch car range with the introduction of the new Turbo Touch Fiat 500. These fun and chunky character vehicles, which will come in red, pink or a sporty white, will offer exciting and entertaining fun for little ones making their first moves. The stylish cars, which echo the chic Italian design of the Fiat 500, vibrate with an engine sound when they are switched on and when you press down on the back of the vehicle they rev up and go! Once they are zooming away they can also roar and salute to their friends with a toot on the horn! The new Fiat 500 characters will join existing Turbo Touch favourites forming an integral part of Chicco’s new Turbo Team. The cars are suitable from 2 years upwards.

Chicco will be presenting the rest of the Turbo Touch crash range at the Fair, showcasing the three ‘Demolition Derby’ cars – Derby Red, Derby Black and Derby Blue. The fun starts when the rear of the vehicle is pressed and it will speed away. After several seconds, the car makes a real tyre screeching sound; when it bumps into an obstacle the doors and bonnet fling open with amusing sound effects. The cars can simply be reassembled by pushing the smashed parts back in to start again.

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LONDON TOY FAIR

And we're off!

VIVID

Stand: E135

01483449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk

Boys The highly anticipated Thunderbirds Are Go (TAG) TV series will be blasting off in 2015 and is set to emulate the success of the original series. With striking packaging and products full of exciting and innovative features the toy range will be landing into stores in AW15.

The hero product is the all new Tracy Island Playset that is packed full with features and intelligent story telling sounds. With a unique launching experience, all the vehicles fit inside Tracy Island and boys can replicate the amazing launch sequences from the TV series. This pioneering playset is sure to be on the top of any fans Christmas list. The rest of the launch range will include 3.75” Figures and the iconic Thunderbirds Vehicles & TB2 Playset.

Real FX is next generation slotless racing which provides the most

realistic driving experience in RC cars ever created. Each car is fitted with infrared Opto sensors which read the track at 200 times per second. This artificial intelligence means a second car can drive around the track by itself and compete against you! Overtake opponents and deal with track hazards, from tyre blowouts to oil spills in this truly innovative racing system. It’s like video gaming meets slot racing, but in real life and of course with no slots!

Tech Following on from the success of this year’s My Friend Cayla come two new propositions for next Christmas from Vivid and Manley: My Friend Teddy and i-Que, which also work by connecting to a smart device via Bluetooth.

My Friend Teddy, aimed at pre-schoolers, is The Bear Who Really Knows You. Parents can enter details of the child and their family into the app,

and Teddy will incorporate them into the things he says. He interacts with lots of activities within the app which change in complexity as the child develops. My Friend THE HIGHLY Teddy is soft and cuddly and has touch sensors in his tummy, ANTICIPATED hands and feet and will giggle THUNDERBIRDS when he’s tipped upside down.

“

ARE GO TV SERIES WILL BE BLASTING OFF IN 2015 AND IS SET TO EMULATE THE SUCCESS OF THE ORIGINAL SERIES.

”

Girls After a hugely successful 2014, AniMagic Plush is set for continued growth going into 2015. With a fantastic new packaging style guide, new product introductions with new innovative features and new price points, AniMagic will have a complete makeover for A/W, boosting its strongest plush range at retail. AniMagic Rescue

Arts & Crafts - Crayola It's exciting times at Crayola with a series of key innovative product launches coming for 2015. The Paint Maker will let you create your own custom paint colours in minutes!

Use the mixing guide to make classic Crayola colours or let creativity run riot to create and name your own unique custom colour combinations.

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Hospital will also expand into new areas for 2015 with new themes and product SKUs. Both brands will benefit from targeted marketing campaign.

Arts & Crafts Crayola’s new Augmented Reality (AR) colouring in sub-brand Colour Alive, is to have significant expansion throughout 2015. Building upon the spring launch of colouring books, includes the arrival of the hugely popular Minions franchise.

Colour Alive Action Match enables corresponding pages to interact with each other in AR, and is supported across Star Wards Rebels and Frozen licenses.

Colour Alive Virtual Design Pro’s offers the ability to interact with creations like never before. The Fashion Collection and Design & Drive utilises the Colour aAlive technology to not only see your designs transformed into 3D, but to personalise them and see them take to the virtual runway or race track.

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i-Que Intelligent Robot i-Que is a cool dude with attitude!

Packed full of jokes, trivia, sound effects, quizzes and games he’s sure to entertain children and big kids alike. Test his knowledge to the max or play with i-Que like a regular action figure.

With his articulated arms and legs, animated lights, jittery thinking cap and twisting waist he’s fun to watch while he’s ruminating!

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Visit us at Gallery 400

For more Feber items

Contact details: famosauk@famosa.es 01623 237 433 www.famosagroup.com

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Love the brand SIMBA SMOBY 01274765030 www.simbasmoby.com/en

In the six years since Simba Smoby Toys UK was founded in 2009, the company has taken huge strides to establish the Simba Dickie Group - Europe’s fourth largest toy company - here in the UK. Posting five years of consecutive double digit growth has not always been easy against a backdrop of recession, but the company has responded with a philosophy that few others can match.

“We run a lean business, but this allows us to pass on significant savings to the retailer, and ultimately the consumer,” says Simba Smoby Sales Director Richard Belford from Simba Smoby’s newly renovated offices in West Yorkshire. “Value for money has never been more important in the UK toy market, and that is something we deliver on every day.”

The structure of the Simba Dickie Group helps as well. A huge organisation that employs

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Stand : E140 over 4000 people in 32 countries worldwide, the group keeps an active product range of around 5000 SKUs at any one time including very strong proprietary brands and a fantastic selection of licensed product from Disney, Nickelodeon, eOne and Turner to name but a few. At the same time sales, marketing and distribution subsidiaries in each territory such as Simba Smoby Toys UK have the agility to react quickly to the different needs of their market. “This enables us to concentrate on the brands that deliver the best proposition for the UK market and support those brands and our retailers in a way that a centralised European organisation could not,” comments Simba Smoby Marketing & Licensing Manager Alex Kovacevic.

Understandably with such a strong portfolio, proprietary brands have been the backbone of Simba Smoby’s business - with successes on the Dickie/Majorette vehicles range and the Steffi Love fashion doll brand placing Simba Smoby second and third in the UK in those two categories respectively.

2014 was a seminal year for Steffi Love, as traditionally great value and excellent retail margins were combined with a far reaching consumer

marketing campaign. Based on a superstar theme, Simba ran a two minute ‘Music Video’ of Steffi Love as their main TV creative over the summer and followed that with online, print and experiential activity that brought Steffi to life. Overall awareness of the Steffi Love brand increased more than 300% whilst the Steffi music portfolio was downloaded and streamed over 100,000 times.

Also especially strong is the Smoby business. Easily the most recognised brand in the Simba Dickie Group portfolio, Smoby outdoor playhouses and slides, as well as Smoby kitchens, continue to grow in the UK - with more and more retailers taking advantage of Simba Smoby’s Home Delivery ‘dropship’ service for large Smoby items.

Over the last few years the company has also seen significant growth in the licensed sector. Headed by a best in class relationship with Nickelodeon that has seen the UK become Europe’s largest SpongeBob market for the first time, Simba have demonstrated to the market how effective they are as a licensee, with Simba Smoby leading the EMEA Master Toy roll-out of Matt Hatter Chronicles and recently announcing the collaboration with eOne on Peppa Pig construction. On this last announcement regarding Peppa Pig construction, Hannah Mungo, Head of UK Licensing, eOne added: “We are delighted to welcome Simba Smoby to the Peppa Pig licensee programme.

The Company has a strong track record in producing innovative

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Brand New Packaging

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

year, with 2015 no exception, and sell-through has continued to increase every single year.”

Says Richard. “Our Home Delivery service is a major factor in that success, as it allows even the smallest retailer to offer the full range of Smoby products to their customers.

Ultimately when you combine that level of service with a well-recognised brand respected for its quality and value, it’s an incredibly compelling proposition.”

Then there’s Steffi Love. and hard wearing construction toys. We look forward to working closely with the Simba team to develop this exciting range.”

This latest addition to the Peppa Pig toy range has been hotly anticipated and will be available from early 2015. The Construction sector continues to be one of the best-performing categories within the UK toy market, while the Peppa brand is also enjoying phenomenal ongoing success, so there could not be a better time to launch a Peppa construction range.

“2015 will be the company’s best year ever,” enthuses Belford, and it’s not just Peppa Pig that has Simba Smoby so optimistic for the year ahead. The release of the long-awaited new SpongeBob movie, Sponge out of Water, in March is a huge boost to the revived SpongeBob toy market in the UK and has been supported by Simba with an array of new product development and a significant expansion in retail distribution for the brand. Smoby also continues to re-establish itself as one of the UK’s pre-eminent outdoor and roleplay brands. “We keep expanding our range every

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Simba’s fashion doll offering was one of the stars of 2014, with ground-breaking long-form 120” TV commercials leading an innovative 360˚ campaign, and the program in place for 2015 is even more impressive. The brand has secured a collaboration on a new hero theme for the Steffi Love brand entitled ‘Magical Dreams’ with a very high profile A-list celebrity, who will be adding creative input as well as staring in the new Steffi TV

commercials that air later in the year. More will be revealed at Toy Fair, including extensions to the ‘Love Family’, where Simba Smoby will be exhibiting for the fifth consecutive year at Stand E140. “Toy Fair is a hugely important platform for us” continues Alex Kovacevic, “It enables us to create an immersive experience around new concepts whilst showing a range and depth that you just can’t get across in a preview.”

And following Toy Fair is the Nuremberg Spielwarenmesse.

This is where one really gets a sense for what the Simba Dickie Group as a whole is all about; just jump in any taxi in the city and you’re confronted with the Group’s unmistakable red logo and core mission statement “We Love to Make Toys”, whilst a visit to the Group’s main stands in Hall 6 now an important part of everybody’s Nuremberg diary.

Whether with its own proprietary brands or an ever increasing portfolio of leading licensed properties, Simba Smoby has established itself as a major supplier in the UK toy market in a very short space of time, posting growth figures year after year in the toughest of markets.

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. . . p u t i ’ n i k a Sh

r e n Di Stand of the year 2014

Toy Fair

Stand E15 Hong Kong Toy Fair, Hall 1B Stand A27 Show offer available

NĂźrnberg, Germany, Hall 12 Stand B-03-1

sales@greenboardgames.com

Spring Fair, Birmingham NEC, Hall 3 Stand N22

www.greenboardgames.com

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Keep on MoVing!

MV SPORTS 01217488000 www.mvsports.co.uk

: Stand B30

MV is very excited to be back at Toy Fair to showcase its exciting new ranges. Following another double digit growth year, MV Sports continues to lead the market in licensed and own brand wheeled and outdoor toys.

Its key licenses and own brand propositions enjoyed growth in 2014 and their performance was way above the industry and sector growth averages.

This year MV's portfolio of exciting sector leading licenses is further strengthened with the addition of several sensational new properties.

A recently agreed multi property licensing agreement with the Walt Disney Company heralds a new and exciting period for MV with the addition of blockbusters such as Disney Princess, Star Wars, Avengers, Cars and Planes.

In particular Disney Princess promises to be a fabulous new addition to the girls’ portfolio. At the top of every little girl’s wish list for 2015 MV's fairy tale variety features beautiful princess graphics, extra special crystal features, throne shaped seats, bespoke footplates pretty ribbon tassels and magical accessories. This delightful collection has been very well received by retailers and meets the growing demand from consumers for princess based wheeled products such as trikes, bikes, scooters, skates and accessories.

It was another fabulous year of growth for MV's fabulously popular collection of Peppa Pig products and 2015 promises to be another great year with the addition

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of key new lines such as the Peppa Scootcase; an innovative combination of mini suitcase, scooter and trolley case.

Building on the success of Peppa Pig, EOne’s other highly rated license is Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom. Early indications are that the new toy range is performing exceptionally well and MV's new range of bold and bright wheeled toys are set to emulate this success in AW 2015.

Staying with the preschool girls’ theme MV's My Little Pony range has been refreshed with vibrant colourways and superb neon accents; the distinctive artwork will shout loudly off-shelf or off-page. This classic property is performing well at retail and we look forward to further growth in 2015.

In the Night Garden is enjoying a huge resurgence in the nursery

and preschool aisles this year and with ongoing ‘bedtime slot’ commitment from CBeebies there is a huge pent up demand for more product. MV's unique range of trikes, scooters and ride-ons, featuring multi character prints and Iggle Piggle specific designs are already back in demand.

Later in the year sees the launch of an old family favourite, Clangers.

Highly popular in the seventies, the BBC is bringing back the classic show and reinventing it to enchant a new generation of children. To coincide with this, MV Sports are launching a brand new range of Clangers pre-school lines (some incorporating the distinctive Clangers ‘swanny whistle’) which are ‘out of this world’!

It’s not only in girls’ preschool wheels where M.V takes the lead.

MV's exciting boys pre-school evergreens, Thomas the Tank Engine and Fireman Sam, continue to be a must have staple in retailer catalogue’s and online, boasting a selection of innovative designs allowing imaginative play combined with MV’s outstanding quality. Look out for the new Thomas Scootcase and the 3 in 1 Scooter Trailer & Ride On and the 3D Engine Scooter all of which add 3D authenticity to MV's Thomas range.

MV's brand new Disney Cars line up has revved up retailer’s appetites with a bold new collection, including helmet sets, skateboards, accessory fueled scooters, bikes and even 3D

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wheeled items. The hallmarks of this evergreen property and wheeled toys represents a perfect match and will continue to sell as boys’ the nation over feel the need for speed.

Always looking to add more value, MV’s own branded wheeled ranges have attracted a lot of attention and are set for further growth.

The ‘Grow & Go’ range has been expanded and is primarily focused on a parent friendly combination of convertibility and re-configuration which allows each product to adapt to the child’s needs as he/she grows in confidence. MV's new converting scooter/ride on combo ‘Sit & Scoot’ has been very well received and represents excellent value whereas MV's new folding Tilt & Turn Scooter offers practicality for parents on the school run at an affordable price.

Leading the way for older boys’ is the spectacular Star Wars phenomenon. Its thirty five year heritage makes it an ultimate evergreen for a variety of age ranges, old and young. As Star Wars sits at the top of the league, holding the title of ‘biggest selling boy’s license of all time’ it seems as though there is no stopping this ground breaking brand. The new blockbuster TV series ‘Rebels’ is already setting records on the Disney XD channel ahead of the much anticipated Episode 7 release in December. MV’s Star Wars range includes a selection of helmets, scooters, skate boards and bikes.

The force is strong with the range, featuring high impact graphics and awesome stand-out colourways.

Marvel’s Avengers promises to be the superhero hit of the Spring

JANUARY 2015

Summer cinema season with Avengers 2 ‘Age of Ultron’ due for release in April, this sensational brand just st keeps expanding in popularity with movie after movie setting new box office heights. Advance ce orders for MV's brand new range ge of helmets, skateboards, scooters and bikes have been phenomenal.

For over 70 years, Batman has as been a powerful iconic symbol to generations of children and MV V Sport’s Batman range has had an electric effect on MV's retailers with huge sales growth over the lastt two years! With helmets, bikes, scooters oters and awesome Batmobile shaped ed ride-ons, the original superhero o just goes from strength to strength..

Look out for MV's all new Thunderbirds and World of Warriors arriors ranges for AW 2015.

Completing the line-up of awesome boys’ properties are Transformers, Power Rangers ers and Angry Birds. Three outstanding classics with a huge back catalogue of entertainment with more exciting xciting content in the pipeline.

Keeping with the older boys’ oys’ theme MV's extreme range e of ‘Stunted’ stunt scooters hass seen three years of consecutive utive growth taking market share e away from the competition. Backed ked by heavyweight T.V support rt yet again for 2015 the range is tighter, more compact and exciting g than ever with the introducing of key new designs, strategic price e points and product innovation. tion.

Stunted provides the ultimate urban experience for the style conscious kid.

If the Stunted brand name is synonymous with Stunt Scooters MV's ‘Bored’ range of cool looking skateboards does the same for the skateboarding fraternity. ‘Bored’ is hallmarked by bright neon graphics. MV's colours and extreme extr delivers the brand new collection colle excitement and performance that demand- but without older kids dema the hefty price ttag. MV’s outdoor play equipment brand Hedstrom is renowned for quality and value for money and is the UK’s best known range of metal swings, slides and multi-plays. With products ranging from simple see-saws to sim large scale swing, swing frames and slide combinations, H Hedstrom is the established name in es tthe category.

Scoring highly MV Sports pioneering S Kickmaster range of K kid friendly football established a equipment has e benchmark for the t category in the continues U.K, U K and contin nu to set the pace 22 years after iit was first launched!

Often imitated but never bettered; all products are designed to Kickmaster pro practical skill development promote practi in an absorbing and challenging way. 2015 sees a complete brand refresh to keep the range vital to budding young footballers. The introduction of the original Close Control Trainer leads the attack, but more innovation with there is even m introduction of folding goal sets, the introductio Soccer Scoreboards and electronic Socc As in previous years more besides. A MV will be backing the rrange with a T.V brand campaign. c

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Hi-tech spec LEXIBOOK +33173232323 www.lexibook.com

Let's Shuffle!

CARTAMUNDI 01268515522 www.cartamundi.com

Stand: H1

At Toy Fair Cartamundi will be launching new additions to its core game ranges, and previewing plans for its 250th anniversary.

Three new Shuffle games will be on display at Toy Fair: Shuffle Disney Frozen, Shuffle Disney Cars and Shuffle MONOPOLY Deal Disney Edition. Shuffle Frozen is available for delivery to toy shops, gift shops and supermarkets from late 2014. Retailers will be able to stock the MONOPOLY DEAL Disney Edition and Disney Cars Shuffle games from January 2015.

Shuffle MONOPOLY DEAL Disney Edition is all about collecting properties in the form of wellloved Disney characters and Shuffle Disney Cars is about racing through the city, overtaking your opponents and refuelling as you go. These three new releases bring the total number of Shuffle games to date to 15.

But that’s far from all. Cartamundi will also be highlighting some exciting new Cartamundi games coming to retail soon in partnership with some popular brands. They include Animal Planet Cutie, a new game based on the enormously popular Discovery Networks channel and Frozen Two-in-One — a two-game pack based, like the Shuffle version, on one of the biggest Disney film hits in recent years.

Visitors to stand H1 will also hear about the company’s plans for expansion of its own brand children’s education games, and continuing expansion to the lines of licensed children’s and pre-school games that have proved major hits for Cartamundi for many years. They will also get a preview of future developments to the Shuffle line. And of course there’s also the little matter of preparations for the 250th anniversary of one of the best known names in the history of playing cards.

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Stand: B18

Lexibook designs, manufactures and distributes an exceptional range of consumer electronic devices, electronic toys and games.

Owner of 200 trademarks, such as Karaoké Micro Star, Spy Move, Move Cam, Cyber Arcade, Meteoclock, Serenity and Yayé, Lexibook is the European leader in licensed leisure electronic products. This success is due to a strategy that includes solid, international and often exclusive licenses (e.g., Barbie, Spiderman, Disney, etc.), as well as products with high added value and an electronic component (including tablets, smartphones, audio and video equipment, etc.). This strategy, complemented by a niche policy and constant innovation, allows for the group’s international growth and for the development of the range of products under the group’s trademarks.

Lexibook is a major player in the high technology toy market and consistently offers high quality, innovative products from year to year.

After the first Windows educational computer designed for children, the first range of Android tablets for younger users, and the first secure smartphone for tweens, Lexibook launches at the London toy fair a new range of TV consoles.

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DKL Marketing Ltd 11 Deer Park Road, Northampton NN3 6QD, UK tel. 01604 678780 • email. dkl@dkl.co.uk • web. www.dkl.co.uk

facebook.com/DKL.Toys

twitter.com/DKLtoys

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Toys for our time Stand : JOHN CRANE LTD 01604 774 949 www.john-crane.co.uk

E20

John Crane Ltd.’s portfolio expands for 2015 to give a new dimension to their award winning mix of wood, plush and plastic toys. Already manufacturing Tidlo, their own collection, the company added B, Sevi and Trudi in 2012 to complement their existing ranges of Pin and GoGo. 2013 saw the addition of Bristle Blocks and Play Circle and 2015 will see them grow yet again with the introduction of B-Baby and Our Generation Dolls.

Tidlo Tidlo is continuing to grow with three new lines for 2015. An all new 30-piece General Hospital Set comes with everything kids need to nurse their favourite character back to health, including an air ambulance, road ambulance, ward beds, privacy screens, surgery lights and tables, heart monitor, MRI scanner and an X-Ray machine and a wheelchair and stretchers to get around on. No lengthy waiting times at this hospital with its doctors, nurses, paramedic and pilot on call to take care of the five patients. Ready to deal with any emergency, the hospital features a clicking elevator, helicopter landing pad and an A&E ambulance drop off point.

Also new in Tidlo is the Garage Set and

Campervan Ride-on.

The Our Generation Dolls range isn’t just about a doll, a book or a fantastic miniature tea set. It’s about girls growing up together, a complete concept with accessories that appeal to the current generation, with eco-friendly packaging for a generation and their parents who see this as an important factor in any purchase. The range will see 99 new products added to our portfolio; you can take a peek into the past, with the retro dolls and accessories or keep in the present with fashion forward friends and loyal pals. There really is something for everyone. Watch heads turn as the Our Generation doll drives by in their Retro Cruiser! The real FM Radio plays kids' favourite songs and the lights and removable roof means day or night, the OG Girl is ready to hit the highway. Or explore the delightfully homely world of cooking, cleaning, eating and organising with the extraordinarily detailed Gourmet

Kitchen; with dozens of realistic tools, utensils and food items, this kitchen set will match even the most ambitious imagination. There’ll never be too many cooks in this kitchen!

B-Baby B-Baby offers something a little different; a range of nine newborn toys from activity play mats to bath time sets. The B-Baby range allows babies to be curious; what does this feel like when I touch it, when I squeeze it, if I push this or pull that?

Sounds So Squeezy is a product that will allow them to be and do exactly that with four unique balls on a teething ring; rattly, crinkling, chiming squishy, soft sounds to squeeze!

Skipping Stones are another line to be introduced; a stacking twist on a classic toy! Stackable anyway you like, ideal for building your first landmarks. Aimed at youngsters from seven months the skipping stones offer a variety of textures and colours to touch, build and dibble on.

All five are fun and the twisting top keeps them secure when they’re stored away.

All about B...

Rather than spending time thinking about how things are supposed to be, B creates toys that inspire individuality so B ready for the unexpected! Their goal is to be a voice to children that says it’s ok to be different, to be loud, happy and sad all at the same time, to be wild, to be fun, free, to be you.

New in B is Mat-a-Matics! B. bouncing, leaping, laughing, grooving, singing and lively! This soft, fold away floor mat comes with four great ways to play with endless combinations: memory music, wacky sounds, melody mix or super dance to keep children fit and active whilst having fun.

Continuing into 2015 are the award winning Woofer and Baa-Baa-Barn, both of which have continued their good name throughout the year by being one of John Crane Ltd.’s best sellers! John Crane Ltd are adding 10 new lines to the B collection in 2015 including a new look Symphony, (Symphony was voted Toy of the Year in the US in 2013) – now try out Symphony 2, as well as a Rock Symphony for those with a wild side.

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:

d Stan 1 F10

Go bananas!

BANANAGRAMS, INC. 020 7298 9500 www.bananagrams.com Bananagrams, Inc., the creators of innovative tile games including the worldwide phenomenon BANANAGRAMS, will be launching BANANAGRAMS WildTiles in the UK. The game, which enjoyed a highly successful debut as a Target and Target.com exclusive in the USA last summer, will be distributed in the UK by Winning Moves UK. The game includes six unique monkey WildTiles, putting an all-new spin on the original anagram game that drives players bananas! Now, with BANANAGRAMS WildTiles, players can pick up a WildTile and play it as any letter, as they race to complete their grids. If they change their mind as the game progresses, just like every other tile in play, they can move their WildTile around as they rework their grid and it can become any letter they wish!

Rena Nathanson, Top Banana at Bananagrams, Inc., comments: “We’re confident that BANANAGRAMS WildTiles will be as big a hit in the UK as it has been in the US. Fans of our classic BANANAGRAMS are sure to love this new take on the game, offering endless word creation. For new players, WildTiles is a great introduction to our range and it’s a solid addition to our line of fun and educational games.”

JANUARY 2015

15

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

A Jurassic toy offering HASBRO 02085691234 www.hasbro.co.uk

In 2015, there’ll be plenty to see from Hasbro’s growing franchises, including My Little Pony and Littlest Pet Shop, Play Doh and Transformers – following the 30th anniversary and momentum from Transformers: Age of Extinction. What’s more, the forthcoming multi-year animated TV series, Robots in Disguise, will begin a brand new chapter for Transformers storytelling and gameplay. It’s filled with great humour, lots of fun adventure and animated in a cooler, lighter, brighter style that we know kids are going to really love. This is an all new look for our TV animation and will transfer into product, which we’re really excited about.

A major year for movie franchises, 2015 will see the

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Stand :

Galler y 620

return of Marvel’s Avengers with Avengers: Age of Ultron, set to be released in April. To celebrate the release, Hasbro will launch its incredible new range of products on the 1st March with amazing new product segments.

Meanwhile, there’s exciting things to come from Hasbro’s preschool portfolio. The headliner here will be a range of loveable character toys from The Furchester Hotel. The Furchester Hotel is a show made by CBeebies and Sesame Workshop about an ‘almost’ world-class hotel run by a close-knit family of cheerfully chaotic puppet monsters. The daily mishaps and mix-ups at The Furchester Hotel give many opportunities for the characters to model the ways pre-schoolers’ natural curiosity and creativity can be harnessed to collaborate and solve problems. Hasbro is delighted to be bringing the curiosity and creativity of these puppet monsters to life with both classic Sesame Street characters, Elmo and Cookie Monster, and new favourites Funella Furchester (the welcoming monster owner), her loving husband, Furgus Fuzz, and their daughter, the unflappable Phoebe Furchester-Fuzz starring in the show.

There will be a continued

Much more movie fun...

The thrills doesn’t stop there!

The much-loved Jurassic Park franchise is also making a blockbuster comeback with Jurassic World, coming to cinemas in summer 2015.

With a fully functioning dinosaur theme park now up and running on Isla Nublar and a new generation of dinos waiting to hatch, Hasbro will be unveiling a monster line-up of dinosaur action figures and role-play products that are certain to terrify and delight fans of the movies in equal measure!

focus on the gaming category too, with new releases from the likes of Twister and Hasbro’s party game line. And with Monopoly celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2015, there will be the 80th anniversary edition of the iconic and much-loved board game on show. The vintage look is a tribute to Monopoly’s timelessness and long-lasting status as the musthave family board game. The pieces have also been given a bronzed look and feature retro classics such as the hand held lantern and steam train, as well as the recently introduced cat.

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from fr om Faber-Castell

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Stand: B130

Keeping it in the family EPOCH 08435 574062 www.sylvanianfamilies.net EPOCH making toys will be at Toy Fair 2015 with its flagship brand Sylvanian Families and arts and crafts range Aquabeads.

After just 12 months of trading and attending only its second London Toy Fair, the company will unveil extensive new product ranges: Sylvanian Families has a new seasidethemed range, whilst Aquabeads is doubling the number of SKUs. EPOCH making toys will also present its plans to mark the global 30th anniversary for Sylvanian Families in 2015, which includes new packaging and the launch of a new fan club.

Stepping on to EPOCH making toys’ new stand will be like stepping into Sylvania! Visitors can enter a life-sized Cosy Cottage Starter Home structure to demo products, whilst outside features a Bluebell Seven Seater reception desk and a meeting area, with grass-textured flooring underneath.

The back wall of the stand features a map and two themed product dioramas beneath for both the Sylvanian Village (showcasing the main houses and other themes), and for the new Sea Breeze Cape (showcasing the new seaside range, in particular the hero item: the Seaside Cruiser Houseboat.)

Inside the Cosy Cottage itself, visitors can demo products to see their new connectability features, and also meet the new families of Sylvania! Outside the Cosy Cottage, there is a Baby and Child diorama. In the main area of the stand, an eye-catching gondola unit forms a typical Sylvanian house with red roof, and showcases additional products. The latest TV adverts will play on screens throughout.

Freya Chocolate Rabbit and Ralph Walnut Squirrel mascot figures will appear throughout the fair to show retailers the potential value of live events.

Sylvanian Families 30th anniversary activity global celebrations kick off with a rebrand: fresh, new, naturethemed packaging will be on display for the first time at London’s Toy Fair.

EPOCH making toys will also unveil its new fan club aimed at the next new generation of collectors; for £9.99 per year, members receive a gift-box, limited edition figure, a

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quarterly magazine, plus a personal card on their birthday and an e-card at Christmas.

Take a #SylvanianSelfie at Toy Fair! For some fun, EPOCH making toys is calling ‘80s-born toy industry executives who loved Sylvanian Families when they were young, to get their favourite character down from the attic and bring it with them to Toy Fair! All fans are welcome on the stand to snap a special 30th anniversary #SylvanianSelfie alongside the mascot figures.

Sixteen new Aquabeads products, including the Beginners Studio, Artists Carry Case and Rainbow Pen Station, will also be on display inside the Cosy Cottage structure. Visitors can demo the products and see the newly develop FSDU for this brand.

Sally Carnall, Marketing Manager at EPOCH making toys said: “2014 has been extremely busy at EPOCH making toys, so we can’t wait to show off some of our achievements over the last 12 months, present the new products and packaging, and tell everyone about what else we have planned for the Sylvanian Families’ 30th anniversary celebrations in 2015.”

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Visit Us at Toy Fair!

Hong Kong:

January 12 – 15

Room 504-5 China Chem Golden Plaza 77 Moody Rd Tsimshatsui East Kowlooon, Hong Kong

London:

January 20 – 22, Stand G29

Nuremberg:

January 28 – February 22, Hall 12, Stand B-08-6

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February 14-17, Booth 1717

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March 3 - 6, Stand E09

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Hear the toy bells Chima LEGO

Stand: B70

01753495000 www.lego.co.uk In the first half of 2014 the LEGO Group experienced broad based sales ales momentum with global sales es up 15 percent. A significant contributor ributor to sales growth was the LEGO Movie products which launched in n conjunction with the release of the LEGO O Movie.

Classics such as LEGO CITY, Y, LEGO Creator, LEGO Technic, and d LEGO Star Wars have also continued to o deliver very strong growth globally. y.

As the number three property perty in the UK total toy market, LEGO CITY spring/ summer 2015 themes and product launches have been developed ped to maintain its key position. Classic, lassic, expandable play themes will ll include Demolition and Swamp Police. ice. The major success story of 2011 – Ninjago - will be renewed with a collection llection ection of play themes and action toys. s. Another favourite from the early 2000s 00 0s – BIONICLE – will also return to o shelves in 2015. Pocket money collectible brands, Minifigures re es and Mixels, will both continue ue e to launch three range waves s throughout 2015. Popular IPs Ps s including Chima, will see further engagement into its fantastical world while Ultra Agents will focus on new models and iconic vehicles.

New IP, Speed Champions, will introduce a range of some of the coolest racing cars. Launching in March 2015 5 this new brand will allow children dren to build, race and role-play with their cars which will include unique e minifigures. Somewhat differentiated from the core brands, TECHNIC is a classic evergreen that caters for the slightly older boy. Spring/summer 2015 will see the introduction of '24 Hour Race Car’. Build to play or display, this is the premium LEGO range where vehicles actually

82

work like the real thing. Q1 will see more of the low price point pullback ‘action vehicles’ which use pull back k motors to create a fun, simple funct function ion and build for

a quick, achievable achieva able success. The launch of LEGO Minecr Minecraft raft at the end of 2014 also brings the LEGO experience to older boys.

The UK’s number one Star Wars licence, LEGO Star Wars further expands its universe in 2015 to reflect one of the e most anticipated comebacks in cinematic atic history by introducing novelties s and well-known redesigned best-sellers. ers. The partnership between

LEGO LEG O and DC Comics Com mics and Marvel, Marv vel, will see the unveiling of m more SpiderMan Spid lines plus the introduction of intro Justice League Justi The and T Avengers. The Aven LEGO Super Heroes range of Hero conflict play theme sets offers collectible iconic characters, collect minifigures and scenes from both the minifigures DC and Marvel super hero universe. A selection of products will be launched 1H pre-empting the theatrical release of Avengers: Age Of Ultron, and complementing associated SpiderMan content during cartoon season.

Theme and product extensions will also be available for the Duplo, Juniors, Friends, Elves, and Princess ranges.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Put a spin on it SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmastertoys.co.uk

After a fantastic 2014 across all brands, Spin Master is delighted to announce that the eagerly awaited launch, by pre-schoolers and parents alike, of the Paw Patrol toys is finally here! Visit the stand to see what is next for the PAW Patrol as the hit CG animated show on Nick Jr. and now also Channel 5’s Milkshake, follows the adventures a 10 year old boy Ryder and six heroic pups who save the day with their problem-solving skills, cool vehicles and cute doggy humour. A strong TV campaign, bolstered by PR and marketing activities will support the brand to make a fantastic launch into the market.

Wackytivities Kinetic Sand is the squeezable sand where you can feel the fun! You’ve never felt anything like it! Pack it, pull it, shape it and love it, Kinetic Sand is so incredible you can’t put it down. It’s kinetic meaning it sticks to itself and not to you! It oozes, moves and melts right before your eyes. It flows through your fingers like a slowmoving liquid, but leaves them completely dry. Kinetic Sand never

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Stand: E131

dries out so you can use it over and over again. Kinetic Sand is wheat, gluten and casein free. This soft and stretchy sand easily cleans up while delivering non-stop fun!

It’s the squeezable sand you can’t put AFTER A down.

FANTASTIC 2014 Also at London Toy Fair come ACROSS ALL and meet new BRANDS, SPIN additions to MASTER IS Zoomer Zuppies DELIGHTED TO - Kicks and ANNOUNCE THAT Flora - and play THE EAGERLY with the new Air Hogs Hyper Disc AWAITED LAUNCH, – a 3 feet wide

BY PREdisc which can be SCHOOLERS AND filled with helium PARENTS ALIKE, or air for gravity OF THE PAW defying PATROL TOYS IS action.

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FINALLY HERE!

Bounce it! Toss it! Perform tricks!

Visitors to the stand will see further innovation across Spin Master’s wide range including Meccano and Flutterbye, and get to play the new Spin Master Games.

”

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Read Re ead Reaads books Reads outt loud

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Toy testers BUREAU VERITAS 01925 854 360 www.bureauveritas.co.uk/cps

Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services is the leading global provider of compliance and quality assurance services to the toy industry and will be exhibiting at London Toy Fair, in the Greenhouse.

Bureau Veritas is a global leader in testing, inspection and certification services. Founded in 1828, the group has more than 66,000 employees in 1,400 offices and laboratories, located in 140 countries.

They provide a complete solution to the toy industry from product concept to store-shelves including product testing, safety assessments, regulatory consultancy, product inspections, chemical supply chain solutions, social and factory audits, sustainability services and global market entry solutions. They help their clients improve their supply chain, as well as checking that their toys meet the relevant regulatory standards.

They support a wide range of clients, from small toy start-up businesses to large importers, brands and global retailers.

Stand: GH58

Show Seminar What: “Mitigating the costs of increasing chemical requirements.

Toyograph: a risk-based approach” When: Wednesday 21 January at 11:30 The British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) and Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services are inviting visitors to a complimentary seminar on Wednesday 21 January at 11:30, in the Gallery Suite 1, which will address the increasing chemical challenges of the Toy Safety Directive. Wendy Phillips and Eric Edmonds from BTHA and Malcolm Horner from Bureau Veritas, will go through the recent and forthcoming chemical legislative restrictions and the available compliance strategies. The seminar will also demonstrate how the cost of compliance can be mitigated by using Toyograph. Pre-registration available at www.bvcps.co.uk/toyfair or simply turn up on the day.

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With their extensive global network of toy laboratories, they have the capabilities to test their clients’ products wherever they need to.

At their fully-operational UKAS accredited laboratory in Warrington, Cheshire, they have been offering reliable service delivery, friendly customer service and recognised technical expertise for over a decade. In the UK, they offer a wide range of analytical testing, including Chromium VI and can test for many types of toys including dress-up, trampolines, outdoor play equipment, acoustic toys, electric toys or children’s cycles. They also work closely with their clients globally to help them assess their products and manufacturing processes for chemical safety & compliance, which is one of the main challenges of the toy industry today.

Bureau Veritas have partnered with the British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) to develop Toyograph, an online toolkit which helps companies carry out their chemical safety assessment and assists them in defining a compliance strategy on a risk-based approach. Toyograph enables companies to use a Bill of Materials

(BOM) to determine which materials are at risk of containing restricted chemicals above the limits specified in legislation or at levels that may be a safety concern.

Visit the stand and speak to their toy consultants who will answer any regulatory and technical questions you may have. You will also have the opportunity to find out more about Toyograph and to view a demonstration of the toolkit.

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the worldwide leader in multi-level logic games

THE TOY FAIR 2015

TOY FAIR NĂ&#x153;RNBERG 2015

SPRING FAIR 2015

20.01.2015 - 22.01.2015

28.01.2015 - 02.02.2015

01.02.2015 - 05.02.2015

THE GALLERY - STAND 410

HALL 3A - STAND H05

HALL 3 - STAND 3D07

uk@smart.be

www.smartgames.eu

www.smartmax.eu

TM

01903 885669

the award winning pre-school construction system

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The K’NEX big thing in construction K'NEX 01189497000 www.knex.co.uk With its unique qualities of scale, movement and open-ended creativity, K’NEX is set to build on last year’s success with a number of announcements at Toy Fair 2015. A strong and diverse product portfolio featuring adventurous themes and unrivalled play value will include brand new ranges, bringing innovation to the construction aisle throughout the year.

At the heart of the K’NEX range is a collection of building tubs and treasure chests. With generous piece counts and dozens of inspiring creative building ideas, new sets for 2015 include Combat Crew 5 in 1, which offers motorised movement and builds five military vehicles for amazing play value. 52 model and 70 model tubs will continue to offer children the chance to experience construction play where the only limit is their imagination.

Coaster themed construction

Stand:

Gallery 510

dragon themed construction play.

X-Flame is a real show-stopper as with motorised walking and wing movements and three alternate models to build, it adds up to great play value. With dinosaurs and dragons currently firm favourites in the trend stakes, X-Flame and his fiery friends bring relevant innovation to the construction aisle.

In the licensing arena, K’NEX uniquely captures the appeal of popular digital games and TV favourites, bringing them to the construction aisle. A powerhouse portfolio for 2015 includes the ever popular SuperMario and Mario Kart, Titanfall, Plants vs. Zombies and Family Guy.

K-Force K’NEX is set to launch into the blaster category in 2015 with brand new range K-Force. Inspired by hundreds of thousands of online searches for K’NEX blasters, the construction play experts created an entire line of buildable, customisable blasters to cater to this overwhelming demand.

Leading the line-up is K-Force Dual Cross, a giant blaster bow with 371 pieces along with instructions for five custom blaster builds and buildable targets.

range, K’NEX Thrill Rides, gives builders the chance to recreate the fun of an amusement park at home with realistic looking, large scale theme park rides at a range of price points.

In 2015, K’NEX will unveil its tallest coaster of all time, Sky Sprinter Roller Coaster, which can be built more than seven foot tall and has more than 800 pieces.

Brand new to the K’NEX line up, the Beasts Alive range offers dinosaur and

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...toys & gifts designed to inspire

tel: 01628 488944

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Stan d G100 :

Ahoy Toy Fair!

JOHN ADAMS 01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk Toy Fair 2015 will see John Adams Leisure Ltd unveiling its exciting Pip Ahoy! toy line for the first time, since announcing the company’s acquisition of the master toy license of the popular pre-school programme, featuring the voice of David Jason. The toy line will consist of beautifully detailed figures, playsets, role play items and plush toys which will launch from May. The Creative Play category will be expanding again this year with two new craft ranges set to be unveiled at the show, plus two new additions to the company’s successful

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TOY FAIR 2015 WILL SEE JOHN ADAMS LEISURE LTD UNVEILING ITS EXCITING PIP AHOY! TOY LINE FOR THE FIRST TIME

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food craft range. This category will also boast new Disney Frozen items as well as extensions to the hugely popular BloPens range.

The much-loved Tiny Tears brand will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2015 so the company will be celebrating in style with a special anniversary edition of the Tiny Tears doll as well as a few other surprises on stand.

The company will be bolstering its action games portfolio too, with a couple of fun new

additions, which will join existing success stories Doggie Doo and Silly Moo. An exciting new range of kids’ educational games will be available to view for the first time too, and the full Rummikub range will also be showcased on the stand.

The science category will also see a new line introduction for 2015, which will sit alongside the company’s current science collection which includes Gross Science, Dr Toxic’s Slime Lab amongst many others.

Happy birthday Rubik's Cube!

Following on from its 40th Anniversary year, the Rubik’s Cube will continue to have a strong presence on stand, after recently being added into the National Hall of Fame. The Classic 3x3 Rubik’s Cube will be the main focus, alongside other items in the Rubik’s range including The Void, Rubik’s Race and the Speed Cube Pro Pack.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

All the fun of the fair with exciting new ranges TOBAR 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk

Stand: Gallery 305

Tobar is once again delighted to be exhibiting at Toy Fair with some incredible new lines which are bound to be great for sales. The team are looking forward to meeting up with suppliers and customers to highlight their great range of gifts, toys and novelty items.

Over the last 12 months the team at Tobar have been travelling around the world to get ideas and inspiration for their 2015 product range. The team have managed to secure some exciting new distribution partnerships in addition to their existing lines which

include: Maisto, Edible Sweet Art, Syma, Zuru, 50Fifty and Bburago. New partners include USA brand Schylling famous for classic tin toys, stationary brand Scentos, exciting outdoor brand Turbospoke. In addition Zuru and Bburago will be unveiling some exciting new lines to tempt customers in 2015.

For any fans of the famous dancing horse the news that Bburago have secured the worldwide distribution rights for Ferrari Die

New distribution partners and exciting new lines for 2015 Tobar are delighted to be the new distribution partner for American brand Schylling who for the last 30 years have been recognised for their stunning classic tin toy collection. With over 100 new timeless toy lines being added this is sure to be a very popular brand with Tobar customers. For the more discerning customer there is also a range of Schylling Collectibles limited edition lines which are extra special.

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Cast models will be good news.

Tobar are delighted to be working with Bburago on this exciting new partnership.

Sales of stationary continue to boom and the search for something unique resulted in a new distribution partnership with Scentos. This brightly coloured range of scented childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stationary is perfect for birthdays, party bags and other gifting.

Looking to expand their outdoor range of toys Tobar have teamed up with Turbospoke to become their new distribution partner for the UK and France. This range of cool bike accessories lets children customise their own bike. These innovative accessories are safe, fun and totally unique.

Zuru have yet again come up with an ingenious addition to the Robo Fish and Magical Mermaid collection.

2015 is all about Robo Turtles and these gorgeous little creatures will complement existing lines from Zuru perfectly.

Tobar continue their partnership with Blue Sky and introduce the new Star Wars Collection! May The Force Be With You as this classic novelty classic of licensed Star Wars stationary and gifts comes to market in 2015.

Tobar have added over new lines to their own brand collection of classic Pocket Money and Adult Novelty Gifts all with an RRP of ÂŁ5 or less. All these new lines will help customers drive impulse sales, seasonal gifting and prove that Tobar is the one stop shop for desirable gifts.

The team have investing in a range of marketing materials and POS solutions to help convert sales in store and online so make sure you visit the Tobar stand to see the exciting new collection close up.

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Stand: E110

Fly away with me BROOKITE 01837 53315 www.brookite.com Brookite will be showcasing new products for 2015 at Toy Fair. The kite range has been enhanced with two Giant Kites - Sunbeam and Skyburst. These diamond kites are over one metre in length and width and come in bright, exciting colourways. Also on show will be four additions to the Windthings range - a fun Chicken Spinner, an attractive Star Spinner and a Turbo Twister Windsock. A new Giant Ground Stake measuring 1.25m long completes the new items in this range. Another exciting innovative product for Brookite is the Parashoot featuring a clever, new release mechanism.

Simply attach the parachute to the releaser and send it up the kite line. The parachute falls to ground and the kite stays in the air. The item is available in two packs - as a complete kit containing a kite, release mechanism and parachuter and secondly as a kite accessory.

The Venom Skateboards have had a make over for 2015. The Scorpion and The Stripe are now available Venom Triple Pad Sets and Helmets complete the range.

JANUARY 2015

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

There’s no business like show business!

Stand: E125

HTI 01253778888 www.htigroup.co.uk

Disney Frozen An extensive range of Disney Frozen toys including wheeled and pocket money will be on display at Toy Fair, riding the icy wave for this huge license! Taking centre stage is the TV advertised Disney Frozen Colour Match Snowflake Bag – sure to be the COOLEST fashion accessory next season! Perfect for anyone that’s ever wished they could magically change the colour of their handbag to perfectly match their outfit - simply hold the bag against whatever you want to match it to, press the button and watch in amazement as the pretty, pearlescent snowflake design toy bag magically changes colour before your eyes – that’s Disney Frozen magic!

With three exciting new TV lines for 2015, demonstrating strength in key categories of the toy market, HTI’s stand E125 showcases some of the firm's most innovative new product developments. With a multi-territory license partnership with Hasbro for roleplay sets, HTI presents an exciting range of My Little Pony toys. The Rainbow Dash ‘Style n Groom’ is a full body, 3D sculpt of the popular character with a beautiful long mane of multi-coloured hair. Girls can also create a stylish Rainbow Dash Cutie Mark beaded necklace for Rainbow Dash or wear as a bracelet themselves. The Rainbow Dash ‘Style n Groom’ will be TV advertised in 2015. The range also includes uniquely tooled character cases containing jewellry and hair care accessories, the new colour changing Rainbow Bag and the new Twilight Sparkle Jewelry Set. HTI continues to reinforce its Tonka vehicles range. The new robust, metal Tonka Mighty Dump Truck has a steel cab and moving steel rear tipper. An iconic Tonka toy, this Dump Truck

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will withstand hours of Tonka tough playtime. HTI also launch two new exciting die-cast Tonka ranges for 2015 as well as a new playmat storage case set. In the doll's prams and pushchairs market, HTI displays key lines across premium brands Mamas & Papas and Silver Cross as well as evergreen brands Peppa Pig, Hello Kitty, Sophia the First and Minnie Mouse. The M&P Armadillo doll's pushchair will be TV advertised for 2015. The distinctive design doll's pram is inspired by the real life nursery replica. Consistently a hugely popular preschool brand, HTI offers an extensive selection of fun Peppa Pig role-play, musical, wheeled and pocket money toys as well as dolls prams. HTI also showcases two

new tooled Minions character shaped cases. The Minions Explorer Case and the Minions Construction Case provide everything necessary for mini Minion fans to role-play exploring and building.

HTI’s Barbie role-play toys offering is bolstered with the new Barbie ‘Sparkle and Shine Bag’ – a stylish handbag with light up bow charm complete with lots of glam up accessories.

There’s also a new Barbie ‘Sparkle and Shine Light Up Secret Locket’ with bracelet and charms to decorate.

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Stand : E49

Just despicable (but in a good way) H. GROSSMAN LTD 0141 613 2525 www.ozbozz.co.uk Minions are magic! Everyone loves the Minions from Despicable Me and with their own movie coming out this year they will be a hot property. So, what could be better than a Despicable Me Sand Shaper Set which allows you to use Minion moulds to create your own characters out of sand. Itcomes with accessories to personalise your Minion. Six different moulds will keep the kids happy on the beach or in the garden.

Dinosaurs are always big business and Megasaurs have been mightier than most. For 2015 HGL add a new range of superbly sculpted dinosaurs designed to complement the existing Megasaurs range. Fashioned in a unique style, the detail is amazing and the tooling has been crafted by the company’s Chief Designer and model maker who creates many of HGL’s award winning designs From fantastic pre-historic creatures to farmyard favourites, HGL are introducing a range of totally lifelike farm animals.

Especially made for little hands these cleverly crafted animals will teach children about the creatures of the countryside.

It wouldn’t be HGL without new outdoor ranges and this year’s outdoor lines are under wraps – to be revealed at Toy Fair. Come and take a look at Stand E49!

JANUARY 2015

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The best yet DKL 01604 678 780 www.dkl.co.uk

Stand : E66

DKL will be returning to Toy Fair in 2015 bigger and better than ever! After a hugely successful 25th year in business, DKL are moving full steam ahead into 2015 with new lines and perennial bestsellers. Launching exclusively at Toy Fair is Smencils: a fun and exciting range which is sure to take the UK by storm in 2015. The quirky stationery range includes scented pencils, pens, USB sticks, pencil cases and even scented stuffed animals. The Munchkin range will again return with new innovative toys which are practical for parents and fun for children. The bath toy collection is strengthened by new interactive products, whilst the range will also benefit from whole new collections of Travel and Nursery items.

Highlights include the Magical Firefly Mirror, an interactive and animated mirror which entertains and soothes young children during car journeys.

Another of DKL’s brands, Miniland Educational, will also have new and modern products on display at Toy Fair. The lacing sets were star attractions for DKL in 2014, with the Activity Buttons in particular receiving superb focus and attention from retailers and consumers alike. Play

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Miniland, a new and innovative collection of digital resources is going to be a highlight for 2015 as the educational brand adapts to become more relevant in the digital age. At Toy Fair, DKL will also be demonstrating the Miniland ‘Moogy’ app alongside the expanded Moogy range which centres on a loveable plush dragon character.

After a successful first eight

Houshold favourites Hama Beads DKL’s household favourite, Hama Beads, will continue to evolve and expand in 2015 with more licensed products featuring Hello Kitty, Disney Palace Pets, and Doc McStuffins. Exciting lines have also been added to the pick-up gift box collection, My Pocket Hama. Amongst the new additions to My Pocket Hama is the seasonal Halloween gift box which will be incredibly popular.

months at DKL, the Breyer Model Horses brand will come into its own in 2015. In its 65th anniversary year, Breyer Model Horses will unveil an exciting, limited edition Polo Collection which will appeal greatly to British fans and collectors of model horses. Another addition is the fantastic Let’s Go Racing set which comes complete with a jockey to fit the model horse and a fun poster! The premium doll brand, Corolle, will also be on display. The stunning range has been updated with fresh and vibrant colours and beautiful designs, offering retailers more choice than ever before. The much-loved Les Cheries collection which features gorgeous fashion dolls will have three new beautiful dolls including the elegant Chloe Ballerina and Camille Ballerina.

The award-winning Wonderworld Wooden Toys brand will return to Toy Fair after another fantastic year. Following the amazing reception of the Trix Tracks range, DKL will be unveiling brand new Trix Tracks items at Toy Fair.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Let's get girly! Stand FAMOSA 07903 843241 www.famosa.es

Galler : y 400

Famosa will be previewing new product from popular girls brands Pinypon and Nenuco at Toy Fair in January and based on the success of both brands over 2014, the new line extensions are extremely promising.

Nenuco, the innovative doll and playset brand from Famosa, sees further line introductions for 2015 following the launch success earlier this year which saw ‘Sleep with me’ Cradle sets selling out across UK Retail and Happy Hiccups making it onto Christmas Lists everywhere.

Already hugely successful internationally, the products come packed with unique accessories which enable young girls to have the closest experience to playing a ‘real mum’. There’s a broad variety of price points and play patterns within the collection enabling little girls to nurture, care for and have hours of fun.

Key lines for 2015 will include Nenuco Bathtime - A 42cm soft body doll that can be immersed in

100

water which does not soak in. It has its own dolphin float and when you squeeze water over her head she blows bubbles below the water.

Nenuco Hugging is a 42cm soft bodied, cuddly doll that moves her arms, swings her head and hugs her pillow to sleep with you. Give her a hug and she will hug you back!

Both will be supported by a strong TV campaign for Spring across terrestrial and satellite channels.

That's cute Pinypon, the unique range of cute interchangeable mini dolls and playsets was a key collectable range during 2014, with an estimated 50,000 dolls being in the hands of little girls - a result of a strong TV and Marketing campaign, plus tactical retail promotions. The only dolls with removable hair, head, body and accessories plus double sided faces with different fun expressions to add to the dress up fun, Pinypon are launching ‘Pinypon Princesses’ for 2015, tapping into an ever popular theme and role play with girls. Four different models of glittering princesses, their frog pet and accessories, plus Princes to complete the fairytale and a Palace playset are the key items which will see their debut at Toy Fair. Pinypon Tales a further addition which sees much loved characters of Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Alice in Wonderland and Rapunzel brought to life in Pinypon style with a cute little pet to match.

A heavyweight TV Campaign is planned for Spring Summer 2014 and further tactical promotions will also be put in place to encourage multiple purchases including a BOGOF deal to re-launch the brand.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Big hitters BIGJIGS 01303250400 www.bigjigstoys.com

Stand: H39

2015 marks a special milestone for Bigjigs Toys as the company celebrates 30 years of ‘Creating Perfect Playrooms’. The team will be celebrating in style on their stand and invite others attending to join in the celebrations with a slice of Bigjigs birthday cake and a glass of something bubbly.

Even after 30 years in the children’s toy industry, Bigjigs has never strayed far from its roots and is delighted to be introducing three new additions to its Jigsaw Puzzle range, the first line of products that saw Bigjigs enter the toy world arena back in the 1980s. Each of the new colourful Arched Puzzles is split in to three levels, allowing youngsters to develop their dexterity and problem solving skills as they build a unique scene with each layer. The puzzle designs portray popular themes of dinosaurs, the home, and farm animals. Meanwhile, Bigjigs Rail receives two very exciting new ranges: Dino Range and Farm Range, both sporting the new-style Bigjigs Rail packaging. Tipped to be two of the hottest launches this year, they build upon the popularity of miniature wooden railway and extend the scope for imaginative play with a design based on two favourite themes among preschoolers. Bigjigs Rail Dino Range combines a winning combination of trains and dinosaurs.

The wonderfully detailed Dino Train, Ribcage Tunnel, Bronto Rise, Dino Crane and T-rex Tunnel are all rail accessories

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available to add a new dimension to an existing wooden railway or extend the 49-piece Dinosaur Train Set. The 44-piece Farm Train Set offers railway adventures in a rural setting at an affordable price. The Farm Range Hay Barn, Farm Bridge, Country Windmill, Farm Train and Chicken Shed Tunnel are all accessories to add to the set.

A brand new selection of traditional games will be joining the Bigjigs Games range at the start of next year. New AnimalShut-The-Box, Ludo, Lotto and Mastermind are just some of the new additions to their portfolio of classic games with a modern twist. Adding to their Heritage Playset collection, Bigjigs has introduced the beautifully designed Sunflower Cottage, complete with 33 play pieces and a sheet of stickers for customised decoration.

New to the Bigjigs Baby range is the colourful Number Stacking Tower. Working out the correct order in which to build the tower helps strengthen basic numeracy and problem solving skills.

Seven new faces join the Bigjigs Toys plush range for 2015. These cheerful and traditional plush dolls are large in both character and size, with a height of 350mm.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

A very tech-tastic offering VTech 01235546810 www.vtechuk.com

Stand :

Galler y 500

VTech is excited to launch a number of great new products at the 2015 London Toy Fair. With developments to much-loved ranges as well as brand new additions, the range includes innovations in technology and continues to promote quality learning and development for children of all ages.

Toot – Toot Animals (1-5 years) is expanding its already popular range with the introduction of a Toot-Toot farm and separate animals which include a Sheep, Pig, Donkey, Cow and Horse. Joining the much loved Tiger, Hippo, Monkey, Elephant, Lion and Zebra, these new additions each have their own fun

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phrases and realistic sound effects.

Encouraging motor skill development and imaginative play, Toot-Toot animals teach singing, pretend play and sounds. Simply push the animals along and press the light-up button on their head to trigger three sing along songs and lots of fun melodies.

The Animals respond to SmartPoint locations on TootToot Animals play sets with different phrases, sound effects and more (sold separately).

VTech’s 2 in 1 Trike Bike (18 – 36 months) can be transformed into either a three wheeled Trike or two wheeled balance bike and also features an electronic front panel with three light-up arrow buttons teaching driving concepts, colours, objects and imitative play.

The Trike mode teaches youngsters gross motor skills while the bike mode develops balance. The 2 in 1 Trike Bike also includes 5 sing-along songs and 15 melodies.

In 2015 VTech is launching products in the girl’s collectable category for the first time and adding electronics which is new to this sector. The fun and cute Flipsies (4-7 years) are a group of collectable friends who

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transfer the real world into the dream world.

With Flipsies little girls can explore and play out their own dreams with collectable characters and play sets.

VTech will also be adding to its Little Love range with the new Learn to Walk doll (2+ years). This great new addition can interact with your little one through 10 different activities.

Featuring fun phrases, sounds and melodies the Little Love Learn to Walk doll not only encourages role play fun but also learns to crawl and walk.

VTech will be launching two platform products into the preschool market at Toy Fair; come along to their stand to see more.

In Q1, VTech will be launching an innovative addition to the Kidizoom range with the Action Cam. The Kidizoom Action Cam allows children to take photos and videos on the go and comes complete with a waterproof case and mounts for bikes and skateboards. It provides great fun for children who can add photo effects to their images and create shop motion videos.

Also look out for the InnoTab Max (3-8 years) which is the newest addition to the award-winning InnoTab family. It’s the first high-tech tablet to feature an Android operating

JANUARY 2015

system, giving the performance of an adult device but specifically designed for kids.

It features a dual-core CPU, a high resolution 7” display and Wi-Fi capabilities. It also benefits from 8GB storage, a 5-point multi-touch screen, a microphone and a two megapixel camera for taking photographs and/or filming videos.

It offers a variety of 200 Android educational games and more than 500 downloads from and phrases she will learn and VTech’s Learning Lodge for repeat. Little Love sings children to enjoy, including letter 10 melodies and also matching, logic, numbers and features real-life spelling. sound effects like Little Love Baby Talk (2 + In 2015 drinking and giggling. years) is VTech’s first step VTech is Baby Talk comes into the doll market. This launching complete with a cute award winning voice activated products in the cuddly outfit, dummy and baby is the perfect way to girl’s collectable feeding bottle. introduce your little one to category for the Accompanying Little Love nurturing role play. comes the VTech Little Encouraging learning, the first time and Love 3-in-1 pushchair, which more you talk to the baby adding transforms into a stroller, the more words electronics high-chair and cot. The which is new to interactive components this sector encourage motor skills, language development, roleplay and imaginative play.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Razor sharp RE:CREATION 01189 736222 www.recreationltd.co.uk

2014 has seen Re:creation achieve impressive results across both evergreen brands and innovative new product launches. At Toy Fair the company reveals a raft of exciting, new brands and products that will continue to drive momentum in 2015. Expect to see new news from the incredible Razor Crazy Cart, with fresh new brand launches in Plush, Creative and Electronic categories as well as extensions to Air Storm and the sell-out success story, Stretchkins.

2014 saw Razor blazing a trail in the electric scooters and ride-ons category with the headline- making Crazy Cart and the unstoppable E100 scooter.

Razor powers into 2015 with extensive marketing support behind the successful ‘Electrify your Ride’ campaign including the first ever spring TV campaign for the E90 and E100 models. Toy Fair presents a fantastic opportunity to see the Razor brand’s commitment to innovation and performance in action as the Lil’ Crazy makes its show debut. Building on the success of the award-winning Crazy Cart, this junior electric ride-on delivers drifting fun for children as young as three. Big kids too can get their kicks with the launch of the Crazy Cart XL, an adult sized version of the original.

Razor’s wide portfolio of kick and stunt scooters will also be centrestage at the show with major marketing plans to be announced as the company continues to stay ahead of the pack with on-trend and performance-led product.

The Air Storm performance launcher brand continues to deliver growth and Toy Fair brings the launch of the new FireTek segment which is set to ‘light up’ the category.

Maintaining the same ultimate performance expected of the Air Storm brand, the

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Stand: E160 FireTek range incorporates LED technology for spectacular light displays. Also in Outdoor, C-Preme’s Krash and Raskullz brands with their highly individual take on kids’ safety helmets, will take the spotlight in a first TV campaign showcasing the stunning and diverse design portfolio. Fuze Bike accessories including the ever-popular Wheel Writer will also benefit from spring TV support.

Sales of plush have been anything but soft for Re:creation in 2014 with both new brand launches, Stretchkins and Bright Light Pillow driving impressive results. Toy Fair plush introductions include brand extensions and new brand launches. 2014 sell sell-out out range, Stretchkins welcomes new characte character additions as well as a brand extensio extension in the form of Stretchkins Light Ups. Featuring the same stretchy limbs lim that have captured kids’ imaginations imagination up these new friends feature light u feet to add to the fun. New collectable plush range for 2015, 20 kids Zigamazoos will have k

full of laughter as they play with these cute friends. The range of eight characters produce an irresistible giggle when squeezed while for tots on the go, Neck Napperz are a must. This collection of six huggable animal friends each convert easily into a handy neck travel pillow and back again when it’s time to play.

Expect the proceedings to be distinctly chocolatey with Toy Fair marking the reveal of a total re-launch for the newly acquired Magic Chocolate Picture Maker. This popular creative product will benefit from complete reinvention in 2015. All details to be announced at Toy Fair including the introduction of an exciting licensed product inspired by one of world’s leading kids’ movie franchises. Also new for Re:creation’s Creative portfolio, Light Up Links will be illuminating kids’ constructions in 2015.

Launching at Toy Fair, this system fuels creativity featuring links and connecting pods that can be combined in countless ways to build all kinds of amazing shapes and objects.

Re:creation’s Toy Fair 2015 line-up is stronger than ever with proven brands complemented by innovative new brand launches and each supported throughout the year with powerful marketing programmes and further increased TV spend commitment.

See the lights The LEGO L Lights collection is a proven success story and the impact of The LEGO Movie in 2014 provides a great springboard into 2015.

The coming year yea brings with it the launch of Star Wars VII as well as a refreshed Ninjago hitting screens in the summer so the futu future is, quite literally, bright for this range. At Toy Fair new ad additions to the popular keylight line-up will be launched a as well as innovation in bedroom lighting for Ninjago and Friends.

F Adding to Re:creation’s electronic light-up offerin offering, Jelly Beamz are a unique, new collectable range of four llight up jelly bean friends with unique personalities. Kids can choose multiple modes and uniqu from five modes including includin ‘Keep to the Jelly Beat ‘ mode Beamz light up in time to the beat that will see the Jelly B of favourite songs.

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NEW GENERATION OF MICRO PET ROBOTS

WIGGLY EA R

S AIL &T WALKS

PROGRAM TO G SIN SITS EYES LIGHT

UP BEGS EG

TV • KIDS PRESS • PR COME AND INTERACT AT TOY FAIR STAND E119

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Game on...

DRUMOND PARK 01473 322000 www.drumondpark.com

Stand: Gallery 440

Vivid Group’s new Drumond Park division continues to live up to its reputation as the UK’s leading independent games brand. At this year’s Toy Fair it is showing a tremendous range of new titles, from pre-school to adult - adding to its existing portfolio of perennial favourites. New games to look forward to include: The eagerly anticipated LOGO Lite, is poised to be one of the most important games launches this year. This brilliant fast-paced game can be played individually with family and friends, and the 260 brand new cards can be used to enhance the original number one bestselling LOGO game.

LOGO Lite’s challenge is for players to answer all the questions on a card and collect one each of six coloured disks.

After each right answer you spin to find which colour you have won. If you already have that colour too bad – you must move on.. That’s where this enormously funny game goes ever faster… it can take a lot of right answers to spin that last colour.

Each player has a mission in Rattle Me Bones. The skeleton of an old pirate reclines on his treasure trove, and players must creep up stealthily and steal his possessions from right under his nose! But if he ‘feels’ your touch, he’ll leap up, rattling and shaking to scare away the thief!

First to the Fridge wins! Avoiding the howling cat, tinkling bell and hooting owl, players of Don’t Wake Dad must creep past Dad as he snores in bed, trying to reach the fridge and win that delicious cake!

Collect three yummy cards to win! Barbecue Party is a simple and

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Stand by for disgusting farts and gruesome grunts!

In Og on the Bog, the ogre has retired to his outhouse loo – and you must collect three of his loo rolls to win! Trigger a noise and if he farts you lift a loo roll from the gnarled stick outside.

If he shouts out, your turn is over. But if the bog explodes you lose all your loo rolls and have to start again!

delightful game for younger children which helps aid their dexterity. Players take a card and either place the item shown on the grill – or if it’s there already, take it off and win that card.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Stand : B25

The toy trust factor UL VS United Kingdom Ltd 01189273340 www.ul.com/consumer-products Product safety and quality is absolutely critical for toys and children's products to safeguard consumers and protect your brand. Ensuring all goods comply with required legislation such as the European Toy Safety Directive, as well as any brand specifications, is vital for both manufacturers and retailers. With unmatched industry expertise and active involvement in the development of international toy safety standards, UL’s global team of experts can develop comprehensive quality assurance programs to help ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and brand specifications, across a wide range of products including toys, books, premiums and licensed goods. Since 1894, UL has been a respected leader in safety science. Today, their network of more than 152 laboratory testing and certification facilities in 40 countries helps drive the integrity of global supply chains, optimize product performance and protect brands.

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In particular, UL's UK Chemical Centre of Excellence based in Winnersh, Reading, has been accredited to provide testing solutions to help assess product compliance in line with the new chemical requirements of the EU Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC) and can assist in helping clients meet all the other requirements, including Chemical Safety Assessments, Technical File Management and Product Rise Assessments.

No matter where in the world you source or sell, UL's partnership approach helps clients to mitigate risk and retain greater visibility and control of supply chains. UL actively engages with supply chain members to encourage the adoption of good manufacturing practice and drive improvement, helping to minimise potential quality issues and reduce the need for costly product recalls and returns.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The top dog is back at Toy Fair CHARACTER 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com

Stand-out performances from multiple core brands saw a strong 2014 for Character Options and with extensions to key properties and the launch of some exciting new ranges further growth in 2015 is on the cards.

Character’s collaboration with Australian toy giant Moose Enterprise will continue to strengthen with more brands to unveil at Toy Fair. Little Live Pets flew into kid’s hearts in 2014 and spring has seen the launch of new bird characters and sparkling butterflies, plus a delightful Mummy Owl and Baby that tweet to each other. There is even more to discover this autumn with the launch of new characters plus fans

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Stand: E119 will also be able to collect a whole new species – Mice, providing many new fast and furry friends to collect - plus a whole host of habitats and playsets too. Also available will be a large scale fully interactive and intelligent bird which will be the smartest Little Live Pet to date!

For boys, Moose has introduced a new scary choice of pet to discover with the launch of Wild Pets. Wild Pets are realistic furry giant spiders that scurry along and can be controlled by touch. With LED lights to change the colour of their eyes plus various attack modes, Wild Pets will be available either as a single spider or with their very own habitat.

In addition fans of The Zelfs will be inspired with the launch of the Series 5 collection which will feature new characters in a variety of poses with new funky pattern hair designs. New to the second half will be an exciting crystal

theme across the Medium and Super Zelfs, whilst the new Deluxe Zelf will shine within every little girl’s collection with her Crystal Glow, fibre optic hair and poseable flapping wings!

In the world of youth electronics award winning Teksta brand will have a sting in its tail this autumn which will contrast perfectly with the delightful Teksta Newborns that launched in spring! The Teksta Scorpion introduces a whole new level of electronic interactivity with an IR remote that straps to the back of the hand allowing full 360 degree realistic movement.

Articulate giant pincers means you can pick things up or battle for supremacy with two or more of the impressive arachnids.

Creative play will see a whole new concept for the industry open up with the introduction of Character’s new food brand, Yummie Nummies. Make sure that this part of the stand is in your diary as the opportunity will be there for all to see – and taste!

Yummie Nummies is a revolutionary way for children to make miniature treats that look and taste like the real thing using pre mixed magic sachets of ingredients! Featuring both sweet and savoury treats, this concept is already taking the world by storm, with the UK next in line to experience the craze!

Beados will continue to be a jewel in Character’s creative portfolio with the addition of the new Beados Gem collection. Now each pack includes sparkly gem shaped beads, that magically stick together

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S E N I L W NE OR F E L B AVAILANG 2015 SPRI

015 2 TH 0 2 H C R A M N O S A EM IN C TO COMING E M A I L : S A L E S @ S I M B A S M O B Y.C O M

T E L : 0 1 274 7 65 0 3 0

Š 2014 Paramount Pictures and Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. SpongeBob SquarePants created by Stephen Hillenburg.

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

with just a spray of water. Key to the range is the Beados Colour Gem Studio with top loading rotating bead tray and easy to control bead pen attachment.

To square things off for boys, Quixels are not beads but Cubes that Fuse together with a spray of water, giving boys an edgy creative concept to get to grips with. Colourful micro cubes can be laid out and joined together to create a whole host of pixel style designs in various themes based around key boys concepts. Hero lines will be will be the Quixels Fuse Blaster and Quick Dry Fuser kits which will be supported with a range of fun refill packs.

The Shimmer and Sparkle collection which houses the favourite Cra-Z-Knitz Design Station and Twist ‘n’ Wear Fashion Maker will be extended with a whole new range of new creative kits for 2015! Crystal Craze will allow kids to create a whole host of super sparkling accessories by using rows of crystal stickers to decorate items such as Cuff bracelets hairbands and Clutch Bags. The Shimmer Sparkle brand is now a leading name in the arts and crafts arena. Keeping those creative hands in tip top condition and being able to sit back and relax will be easy with the new hand and foot spa from Characters top selling Orbeez range. To extend the spa theme Character will be

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introducing Easy Nails, a new and fun way for children to effortlessly paint their nails.

Peppa Pig and Character go handin-hand and after a spring that sees Peppa take a break, with her stunning Holiday theme, this pre-school favourite will introduce a whole new collection for fans to enthuse about.

Peppa’s Holiday collection with its Holiday Jet, Camper Van Playset and Sunshine Villa launches in January and is bound to be a year-round favourite, but adding to this in autumn is Peppa’s delightful Once Upon a Time collection inspired by a child’s favourite fairy-tales. Figure packs of Peppa and all her friends will come donned in fancy dress, such as Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella. Playsets will also be given a magical touch such as Cinders Peppa and Coachman George with a Pumpkin Coach, and a Fairy-tale Tea Party playset.

For little brother George there’s a new adventure with his Follow Me Home Dragon that shouts instructions such as “fly left” and “go right” as he is flown through the air with George on board.

Finally Peppa’s Enchanting Tower, the hero play set is a must-have for

fans.

2015 will also see the eagerly awaited introduction of the Clangers and the launch of a brand new TV Series produced in the same stop-frame animation as the original of the 1970’s. At the heart of the collection will be playsets that will echo scenes and features from the show such as Major Clanger and his Musical Boat

and a spectacular Deluxe Clanger Planet Playset. Also set to make a huge impact in the range will be a collection of knitted figures of all the characters including; Small the curious Clanger and Tiny the musical maestro. The essential Soup Dragon is not forgotten whilst the Iron Chicken is presented as a fun construction kit for older kids. The Clangers is receiving a lot of media attention with Michael Palin as the voice of the show and has a major following of older fans of the characters.

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Visit ((G GGaal 112 222 2 ) or S ales Partnership P artnership stand Visit our our stand st stand at at The The Toy Toy Fair Fair (Gallery allllleeerrryy 122) or The The Sales stand (E21) (E211)) (E and and benefit benefit from from our our special sp ecial toy toy fair fair introductory introductory deal deal www.science4youtoys.co.uk www.science4you y oys.co.u y

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Play the day away!

INTERPLAY 01628488944 www.interplayuk.com

Stand: G10

2015 is already looking like an exciting year for Interplay as they continue to build on their reputation for developing and supplying some of the most innovative and creative kits on the market.

FabLab is Interplay’s shiny new collection for 2015. With a wealth of experience in the education sector, Interplay have condensed their expertise into ten fab new experimental kits. Boys will also be more than catered for with the new RadLab sub brand!

Interplay’s award winning myStyle jewellery range will see some modish new additions, including the edgy Steampunk Jewellery, vibrant Shamballa Rainbow Jewellery and the divine Infinity Bracelets. This hugely popular collection follows seasonal fashion trends each year and consistently holds its reputation for high quality end results.

The My Living World collection continued to enjoy success in 2014 with the hugely popular Butterfly World selling out within the first six months of its launch.

For 2015 the range will yet again see the introduction of a brand new kit; the innovative Instant Flower Press which can press flowers in seconds! Interplay have worked extremely hard to create the best nature kits on the market, with their efforts being recognised as the range continues to win industry awards.

WoodWorx is a fantastic range of DIY wooden construction sets. Assemble, glue together then paint the high quality

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wood and decorate in your own unique style. Interplay are excited to be distributing the range in the UK for 2015 and are positive that these wooden sets will be received well by all. Aimed at children aged 5+ with great price points and even some impulse buy pocket money lines to choose from!

An exciting new brand for Interplay in 2014 was GoldieBlox, a concept that combines a book series, featuring Goldie the girl inventor, with a variety of fun engineering sets. Interplay launched the debut collection of three kits with a big PR bang in the UK and 2015 will see another further additions to bolster the range.

Interplay will carry on reaching out to a younger audience this year with the increasingly popular, Craft Box collection. Fairy Garden took the market by storm in 2014, selling out almost as soon as the new stock arrived! Aimed at ages 4+, there are twelve different creative craft activities with an ideal price-point for today’s all year round gift market.

Completing Interplay’s brands are Technokits which offer retailers a great selection in the construction categories and remain firm favourites.

All new and existing ranges will be supported with a variety of TV advertising, PR, and print campaigns designed to heighten awareness with the target audience; the kids who enjoy them!

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Fly away...

FLYING GADGETS 0844 209 2626 www.flyinggadgets.com

Stand: H40 The latest late est and

Flying Gadgets, the dynamic RC toy specialist, is launching an exciting array of new products at Toy Fair 2015, as well as showcasing its extensive portfolio of cars, copters, drones and more. With a number of innovative new products launching throughout 2015, Toy Fair is the perfect platform for Flying Gadgets to unveil its first wave of groundbreaking new tech toys.

Flying Gadgets is also expanding its fleet of children’s vehicles with the brand new Bentley Continental Licensed Ride-On Car. Available from January, this realistic scale replica of a white Bentley GT Continental is perfect for both boys and girls aged 3+. It features a 6V battery, seat belt and parental remote control for safety. It also boasts authentic ignition and engine sounds, steering wheel

greatest new midsize id i X X-Drone D Fitted with the latest gyroscope technology guaranteeing incredible stability and featuring a high definition camera, it’s perfect for outside flying to capture unique and previously impossible panoramic shots. The LCD controller (2.4ghz) has three different flying modes, while LED lights ensure the X-Drone, which is capable of 360° flips, can’t be missed. It’s available from February – a great entry-level piece, equally suited to those new to the world of drones and more experienced operators.

sounds on turns, a horn and working lights so children get a realistic driving experience every time.

Finally, Flying Gadgets is excited to unveil The Big 1 – a 2.4ghz radio-controlled monster truck with a range of over 150m. Its giant wheels make it suitable for use on all terrains and it’s capable of handling the muddiest of puddles as well as jumps. The Big 1 is available from March.

Flying Gadgets is also one of the chosen official distributors for the DJI brand in the UK. DJI, which recently unveiled its most advanced drone yet – the Inspire 1 – is one of the leading brands of drones and quadcopters in the world. A new drone in its Phantom range will be unveiled during the second quarter of 2015.

Visit www.flyinggadgets.com for more information.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Be smart!

SMART TOYS AND GAMES 01903 885669 www.smartgames.eu Smart Toys and Games have enjoyed a successful launch of their UK operation and are now looking forward to 2015 with new products and an extensive brand building campaign planned; featuring a wide range of new multi-channel marketing initiatives.

Smart Games, already the worldwide leader in multi-level logic games is bringing the world of Fairy Tales to their 2015 range.

Once upon a time there were Three Little Piggies, can you help the three little piggies build their houses? Can you help them play outside safely? and if you spot the wolf, can you help them stay safe inside their houses?

The new “Three Little Piggies” Game is a perfect brainteaser for children aged 3-years plus. It features three big puzzle pieces and children will be intrigued by the way the piggies fit inside the houses, look

Stand : Galler y 410

through the windows and escape the wolf.

The game has a 24 page booklet with 48 multi-level challenges, 24 with the wolf and 24 without. There will be two new IQ games, new Tangoes and some new licences.

The award winning SmartGames have multilevel challenges from the very easy to the very challenging. The range starts at pocket money levels to top end quality with the wooden games as year round gifts. SmartMax, the award winning pre-school construction system allows children to explore the fascinating world of magnetism in a fun and safe way.

Each SmartMax magnetic bar features unique colour codes, the blue, green and purple bars attract while the warm colours of red, orange and yellow repel. The giant parts are ideal for young children and allow them to easily create the most amazing and colourful super sized structures. The SmartMax range offers a whole universe of compatible building sets, vehicles and accessories for never ending play.

pre -

Bringing Learning to Life ol ho c s

Award winning, developmental toys with excellent play value

London Toy Fair Stand E115

www.firstcelticlearning.com enquiries@firstcelticlearning.eu

Nuremberg Hall 6 Stand C17

t:01978 280070 JANUARY 2015

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Fun haven Great Gizmos

Stan d G20 :

01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk

Launching in January 2015...

The award winning Meadow Kids collection has a variety of craft kits, bath toys and educational games that will excite kids of all ages. Kids can get arty at home with the Pencils and Stencils kit that will transform everyday cards and envelopes with the included Cupcake, Owl and Rocket stencils and colouring pencils. For fun in the tub, the Build and Play Stable is made of chunky and colourful EVA that can be assembled again and again.

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2014 for Great Gizmos was a successful year with continual additions to all brands across its extensive portfolio. This year will see the company build on its collections with new additions plus two brand new ranges to tempt retailers. A new introduction is Kid O; a brilliant range of vibrant plastic toys that are designed with learning in mind.

Each toy is created to engage and stimulate. The Floating Whale is suitable for children 1+ and is made from sleek durable material in a bright blue and white colour. To also stimulate kids from an early age there is the Marble Maze, Alphabet and Number Magnatabs and also a Free Play Magnatab that allows kids to create designs and shapes from the pull of magnets.

The 4M craft and science kits keep retailers and consumers coming back for more with different ranges and USP’s that allow kids and adults alike to choose exactly the right type of project.

The latest fashion trends are now at girl’s fingertips with the Spiral Charm Bracelets kit that lets girls transform everyday strings and beads into chic jewellery. There are other cool kits including the Gemstone Wristlet and Woven Rope Bracelet kits so girls can create stylish gifts for all their friends.

For creative kits with a difference, the Tubee Animals Kit contains EVA foams, joints and straws to help construct animal creations or the Tubee Aircraft Kit contains enough materials to build a Helicopter, Airplane and Glider.

For the boys, there is a whole host of motorised kits to create. The Insectoid creates a robot that will crawl and wriggle along the ground and the Mecho

Motorised Kits Racer Car will speed along the floor and help kids become a young mechanical engineer and explore important mechanisms like pivots, linkages and levers. It's a must for a first project in mechanical science. The Wind Up Robots Kit is full of mechanical gears and wheels to construct dynamic robots that will whizz and twirl about.

Plan Toys is a fabulous collection of naturally coloured wooden toys that appeal to both boys and girls from the age of six months and is currently leading the way in innovative manufacturing methods and its belief in sustainable play. New for 2015 will be the fantasy land range and a fabulous array of colourful sensory and learning toys, plus a wide variety of outdoor toys, ride-ons, games and puzzles plus educational pieces that will keep little ones entertained.

The ever popular luxury plush range NICI, is set to wow retailers for 2015 with more high quality collections launching in the spring. Brand new for NICI is Jolly Candy, an addition to the Jolly Mah range of plush sheep characters. New to NICI Wonderland is Minilucas and Minisophie, a beautiful soft plush farmer and his wife, who along with their animal best friends are suitable for children from birth. There are new products for the popular My First NICI and Owl ranges and a fun Sloth character joining the world of Wild Friends. Other new ranges include Donkey and a new Classic Bear so children can continue to build on their collections.

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on 0 us B2ir e Se d Fa an Toy St at

•1990’s phenomenon returns with TV support •Huge success in the USA

•Elsa Styling Head & the new singing Elsa and Anna plush dolls with vinyl faces

•Classic brand loved by generations •With stickers and stampers •Doodle, wash and doodle again •Turns 3 pen colour options into 6 •Work those looks for Spring!

•Look out for new Disney Frozen bag COMING SOON!

To place an order please contact:

+44 (0)1295 768078 salesadmin@trendsuk.co.uk www.trendsuk.co.uk For Media/PR enquiries, please contact Ane Olesen: ane@wirepr.eu © Trends UK. © Disney. © 2013 Cife Business S.L.. Color Me Mine is a registered trademark by Cife Spain Business S. L. PUPPY SURPRISE and DOODLE BEAR are trademarks of Ed Kaplan Associates, LLC the licensor of the IP rights herein. All Rights Reserved.

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Say hello to my little friends

Stand : E16

THE PUPPET COMPANY 01462 446040 www.thepuppetcompany.com

New for 2015 Toy Fair The Puppet Company are launching three new Hideaway Puppets featuring Rabbit Hill House, Under the Sea House and the Dinosaur Volcano House!

These new Hideawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s come complete with assorted ďŹ nger puppets and a playhouse for them to live in. These sets follow on from the ever popular Tree House, Mice in Cheese and Rabbit in a Lettuce. They come in bright vibrant colours and The Puppet Company say know they are going to be a great addition to their range.

Also new to Toy Fair are the Full Bodied Puppets. These are fantastic value with fabulous materials and 21 different favourite animals to collect. These puppets are not a straight forward sleeved puppet but come with full arms and legs making them just as cuddly as a soft toy but with all the interactivity and power of a puppet. Easy to use and suitable for most hand sizes, these are a superb addition to the range and are already available from stock.

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Go la la!

MGA 0845 0533 333 www.mgae.com

Be a doll ZAPF CREATION 0845 0533 333

Stand: Gallery 540

will be showcasing its exciting new accessory additions to the range for 2015. It will be building on the world of Baby Annabell and making it even more realistic, giving children an even better role-playing experience.

The UK’s number two large doll brand, Zapf Creations BABY born, will also be presenting a brand new wholesome theme and a new addition to the BABY born plush toy

Stand: Gallery

www.zapf-creation.co.uk Zapf Creation is pleased to announce that it will be exhibiting its ranges at the upcoming 2015 London Toy Fair.

After another year of success for the UK’s number one large doll brand Baby Annabell, Zapf Creation

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London Toy Fair 2015 will see MGA Entertainment exhibiting some exciting new launches and range extensions.

The Lalaloopsy brand will celebrate its fifth birthday in 2015 with the introduction of new ranges across its Large, Mini and Littles segments, as well as two exciting feature dolls, a new line extension and an exciting new major accessory which will be unveiled at the London show.

Lalaloopsy Tinies will be expanding on its existing collectability with new characters, a new creative playset and a new blind bags programme.

The Lalaloopsy Babies range will also carry forward into 2015, following the success of the Lalaloopsy Babies Diaper Surprise.

The Lalaloopsy Girls will continue to develop its range of creative play products, surrounding the popular L.A.L.A. Prep (Lalaloopsy Academy of Arts) theme.

MGA will also be exhibiting a new range of Moxie Girlz at the show with a traditional fantasy theme, which is sure to be a hit with parents.

MGA will also be exhibiting new brand launches, with more details shared as the show approaches.

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sector.

As a result of its huge success in Germany, Zapf’s Mini CHOU CHOU brand will be revealing new animal themed characters and expanding on its collectability by growing into the playset category.

Zapf Creation will also be exhibiting its My Model brand at Toy Fair, which focuses on the development of a child’s creative and imaginative skills.

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Visit us at

London Toy Fair!

The Brand Teachers Trust™

Stand D36!

London, Olympia 20th – 22nd January 2015

LER 2818

Big View Binoculars

LER 2817

Big View Telescope

For more information and to make your appointment today call Chris Beardmore on 01553 819383 or email cbeardmore@learning-resources.co.uk

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Space man CLEMENTONI 0203 20613 www.clementoni.com Clementoni, the educational toy, game and puzzle experts, had a very strong 2014, with a plethora of new products launched into retail across a variety of categories.

Baby Clementoni and Disney Baby, the infant and pre-school ranges, performed well, with the Mickey and Minnie Talking Books leading the way. Science & Play had a great year with the Microscope product winning a silver in the Independent Toy Awards.

Puzzle sales saw a huge boost in the latter part of the year with Clementoni’s range of Frozen puzzles flying off the shelves.

Clementoni offered added-value in this sector with the launch of the 104 piece Frozen Glitter puzzle and most recently the 104-piece Frozen Gem puzzle.

Toy Fair 2015 will see new launches across the whole Clementoni range. The Space Laboratory is an innovative new product that features a space station which is designed to allow children to conduct experiments to recreate life in space and thus discover the wonders of science and botanics. It also includes a space buggy and fascinating “glow in the dark” details. The whole product has European Space Agency approval to ensure it offers real educational value as well as

Stand: Gallery 155

hours of fun.

Also launching at Toy Fair is My Robot, a unique scientific kit that allows you to build your own robot. Once you have created the Robot you can then programme it to undertake a number of different tasks such as a steeplechase, predict your robot journey or small magnetic objects picker and many other fun activities.

The kit comes

with a number of accessories allowing you to create a different robot every day and includes two electronic motors and LED lights. The My Robot kit is Science Museum approved.

Clementoni will use Toy Fair as a platform to build a strong and robust 2015 and it looks forward to welcoming retailers and interested parties to its stand.

Michele Marziliano, UK Country Manager, and his team will be on stand throughout the show. To book an appointment please contact 0203 2061397.

Baby Clementoni... ...wil launch an interactive Infant Dinosaur. ...will This product will bring delight to younger children as the Dinosaur moves when you child shake the rattle. It also moves backwards and forward and makes fun, engaging sounds. forw

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Expect something special!

Sta GOLDEN BEAR

01952 608 308 www.goldenbeartoys.co.uk

First up from Golden Bear is Twirlywoos, the new children’s series that will air on CBeebies from spring 2015. As master toy licensee, Golden Bear’s Twirlywoos range showcases the characters Chickedy, Chick, Toodloo and GreatBigHoo. Packed with innovative play features, the pull-along Big Red Boat is due to set sail in A/W 2015. Mimicking learning patterns from the show, the Big Red Boat combines electronic elements and character figures to encourage imaginative play. Character phrases and songs can be activated across the boat, with flashing lights, opening doors and not forgetting the all-important Fruit Tea Machine!

Hey Duggee: Based on the new animated pre-school series that promotes fun, exercise, learning and yet more fun, Duggee is a loveable big cuddly dog and the leader of a playgroup called The Squirrel Club. Airing in January on CBeebies, Duggee is joined by a cast of unique animal characters who attend the club. Launching in A/W 15 the toy line will include a range of plush items including collectable characters and talking Squirrel club plush each with its own feature badge. Woof Woof Duggee Hug Toy with textured fabrics and push-activated badge icons features the show’s theme tune and key phrases from the series. Re-create the show with the Squirrel Club Playset featuring Duggee figure and accessories.

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nd:

E69

In The Night Garden...

Building on the runaway 2014 success of the In the Night Garden Ninky Nonk Musical Activity Train, the range has been extended for 2015 to include further interactive products and play elements designed to bring the characters to life. The new battery powered Ninky Nonk Train and Track Set is perfect for little hands with its easy start and stop button; watch as the train races around the track and over the bridge whilst playing iconic Ninky Nonk sounds. Play along with Peek-a-boo Igglepiggle who covers his eyes and plays signature phrases when his tummy is pressed! This ‘cause and effect’ play continues with Blowing Kisses Upsy Daisy whose hands raise to blow a kiss when her tummy is pressed too.

Encouraging character-led learning, the new Activity Table features three key ITNG characters plus a host of interactive features such as stories, songs and imaginative play all packed into a standing base and multipurpose play table/ storage unit. The removable activity station can also be placed on the floor to accommodate even the youngest of children.

Something Special: Continuing to grow the Something Special brand into 2015, the range has been extended to include additional hands-on play items including the Roll and Play Soft Cube complete with 36 activity cards; Mr Tumble Stick on Felts; chunky Mr Tumble and Friends Wooden Puzzle and Wooden Dress Up Mr Tumble. Larger-sized Talking Mr Tumble Soft Plush and Textured Mr Tumble with Fun Sounds are new additions to the range alongside the Something Special Sensory Playtime activity centre packed full with textures, moving features, sounds plus Mr Tumble figure.

Sooty: Following on from the successful launch of the Sooty puppet range, Golden Bear introduces a raft of new lines, including a pre-school magic set designed by Sooty’s owner and member of the inner magic circle, Richard Cadell. Designed specifically for small children and unlike other magic sets on the market it uses magnets, optical illusions and technical wizardry, so that children don’t have to master any complex instructions and even the youngest magicians will be able to put on a show.

Go MINI: Bash `N’ Spin Radio Controlled Bulldog is a new addition to Golden Bear’s firmly established Go MINI collection and is due to hit the shelves July 2015! The trigger on the fun controller activates the Radio Controlled Bulldog to drive forwards, then the large “Bash” button on the top of the controller makes the vehicle perform super-cool donut spins. For added fun the controller has two further buttons which activate cheeky “barking” sounds and real working headlights.

JCB: New to the My First JCB collection for AW15 is the “Build & Go Digger”.

Designed for children as young as 2 years, use the chunky screw driver to attach the super-sized wheels and front scoop to the cab over and over again!

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

A golden year as Spirograph celebrates its 50th anniversary GOLDFISH & BISON 0208 3262626 www.goldfishandbison.com

Goldfish & Bison will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic Spirograph brand in 2015.

First introduced in 1965, Spirograph is the famous creative toy that enables kids of all ages to draw cool, geometric creations in bright colour. Goldfish & Bison is supporting the successful Spirograph brand with exciting launches for 2015.

Goldfish & Bison are introducing the innovative new Spirograph Design Studio. The Spirograph Design Studio comes with a motorised function that enables kids to draw the famous Spirograph patterns by simply inserting their pens and starting the motion. It’s brilliant fun accessible to everyone.

The Spirograph set comes with a selection of templates, pens and paper to draw with and the case stores everything, handy to get creative whenever the mood inspires you!

A new Spirograph Animal Set will also be available and comes with two fun Lion and Dolphin templates, six Spirograph wheels and three colour pens, so kids can draw cool spiral patterns and cute animal shapes.

Stand: E35

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Also available will be the new Spirograph Complete Starter Set. It comes with a handy carry case containing everything kids need to get creative on the go. The Spirograph case opens up to reveal 12 wheels all stored neatly in the lid, three coloured pens and paper.

It's mega!: The Megableu portfolio continues to be a phenomenal success for Goldfish & Bison. The Megableu range features exciting games with cool working features and strong visual recognition. The range includes the ever-popular titles, such as Ghost Hunt, Creepy Hand, Piggin Boogers, Cobra Attack and Spiderman Chase Rhino game. Goldfish & Bison will be unveiling new additions to the line-up from Megableu at the 2015 toy fairs featuring exhilarating gameplay with entertaining working features.

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Visit the Alpha Toys stand at the Toy Fair Gallery 515 and see the newest releases from Siku

www.siku.de For UK enquiries please contact: Alpha Toys Ltd. Phone 0035367 63800 • Fax 0035367 63801 • info@alpha-toys.co.uk For Ireland enquiries please contact: Banaghan & Co Ltd • Co.Tipperary • Tel +35367 63800 • Fax: +35367 63801 • info@banaghans.ie

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Back with a bang

Stand : B75

AMSCAN 01908 288500 WWW.AMSCAN.CO.UK

Amscan are back at Toy Fair after a 15 year absence!

And they will be taking the opportunity to showcase their extensive range of party products, balloons and dress up costumes to the Toy industry. This One Stop Party Shop solution aims to bring total convenience to retailers so they can source everything they require for parties and celebrations in one place. Amscan have an impressive licensed collection including over 95 licensed properties of which there will be a variety of exciting new ranges on display at the show. Look out for collections of key on trend children’s characters at the Toy Fair including the ultimate hero next door; Fireman Sam, the worlds most famous sponge; SpongeBob SquarePants, the much-loved Paddington Bear, the cheeky Minions and party accessories by major Disney franchises; Frozen, Avengers and Spiderman.

In addition to party and balloons there will be a variety of exciting new costumes for toddlers and children which are ideal for key fancy dress occasions including kids parties, Book Week and Halloween. Keep an eye out for licensed Barbie outfits, pirates, story book characters, history themes, careers, Halloween and more. Amscan also stock leading face paint brand Snazaroo and will have a selection of face painting products on display to complement the costumes.

Roaringly T-riffic Fun! GIBSONS

Stand: E40

020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Gibsons will be presenting a wide array of new products for the young and old at Toy Fair this year. My World, sees two new additions this year. Dino Jigosawrus contains a staggering eight progressive dinosaur puzzles, ranging from the four piece Pteranodon to the whopping 16 piece Diplodocus. Ships Ahoy! is a lotto style game where children are tasked with grabbing an imaginary parrot for their arm and setting off on a pirate adventure! The aim is to match the treasure coins to the pictures on their ships and to be the first pirate to bring home the booty. All My World toys are made in conjunction with Child Psychologist, Dr. Amanda Gummer, which means they are perfectly tailored to teach children essential skills such as numeracy, literacy and motor skills. New to the adult range this year is the Oops! range of jigsaw puzzles for “those moments when all you can say is... Oops!” Detailing scenes of comical cartoon characters and their unfortunate mishaps, the puzzles are so wonderfully busy that it takes piecing the puzzle together one piece at a time to fully appreciate the detail.

From forgetting your parachute on a skydive to accidentally falling flat on your face when attempting a stage dive at the music festival, what makes them great is spotting all of the “Oops!” moments. The series kicks off with two puzzles, Mudstock and Streetlife, with more in the range to come soon.

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Kitchen glory PLUM

Stand: G90

0344 880 5301 www.plumproducts.com Plum returns to Toy Fair 2015 with a number of new products. Its latest innovation is the Steam Range, a collection of wooden role play kitchens which incorporate traditional cooking play features with technology for even more imaginative play. Plum will also be showing updated designs of its best-selling wooden toys. The Interactive Kitchen range, will be on display along with highlights from the Christmas 2014 range.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Be a hero!

Bandai 01489 790944 www.bandai.co.uk

Ride on KIDDIMOTO

Stand: H44

01749 871 175 www.kiddimoto.co.uk Kiddimoto will be exhibiting their latest products and designs at the largest and most important toy trade event of the year – Toy Fair 2015.

Kiddimoto has set the bar high when it comes to balance bikes.

Their products help develop balance and coordination whilst being cool, stylish and great fun to ride too! The skills developed whilst riding a Kiddimoto balance bike enable children to make a seamless transition to a pedal bike without the use of stabilisers.

Wooden and metal balance bikes for boys and girls aged 2-6 in these new fun and colourful designs will be on display at the event.

There are two brand new designs to the Kiddimoto Kurve range – discover the girly butterfly and the skull & crossbone design, perfect for little boys. The iconic Hero bikes will also be on the stand alongside the award-winning Super Junior range of metal balance bikes. To complement the bikes there is a stylish range of helmets and gloves in matching designs to complete the look!

Kiddimoto’s latest creation – BoxKart, offers a nostalgic glimpse back to when the original soap box racers ruled the hills. However, BoxKart brings the four wheeled kart racing up-to-date in a new slick black or blue and orange striped colour way, an adjustable frame, handbrake and pneumatic tyres for a super smooth ride. These retro children’s wooden go karts are designed to bring the whole family together and will be a must-have for children in summer 2015.

Kiddimoto balance bikes are designed here in the UK and all the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests.

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Stand:

Gallery 600

2015 will be getting off to a flying start for Bandai thanks to the imminent launch of Disney’s latest movie Big Hero 6. Bandai’s superb range of toys includes collectable figures of all key characters, plush lines and role-play.

The star item is the DX Flying Baymax with a 46cm extending wingspan, rocket fist and light and flight sound effects, plus fans will want to build their own “Armour Up Baymax” from over 20 pieces to recreate one of the memorable scenes from the movie. In the land of Power Rangers, fans are now counting down to the first airing of the “Dino Charge” TV series this summer where a new team of Rangers must find the lost “Energems” and use their Dino Chargers to power an arsenal of dino-fuelled weapons, Zords and Megazords to save the world. The strikingly colourful new toy range covering figures, role play and the ever popular Zord Builder range will be unveiled for the first time at Toy Fair. Visitors to the Bandai stand will also be introduced to Sprukits, a new range of figural model kits based on the legendary Gunpla series from Japan featuring characters from the DC comics and Halo. Those seeking out pocket money collectables should look no further than the brand new Hatch n’ Heroes collection. A unique way for children to play with their favourite Disney characters and dinosaurs, these articulated figures turn from egg to hero in a few simple steps.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Tell me a tail

Stand : GH4

TELLTAILS 07790 157 900 www.telltails.co.uk

TellTails are on a quest to help children everywhere find their inner ferity by providing them with their outer tail.

They believe that everyone has a tail in them just waiting to be wagged, a residual longing not quite expelled from the evolutionary process.

Why have we been nibbled down to our nubs?

After all, our tails were the source of our locomotion, they enabled our tree swinging and aided our balance. Did evolution trip up along the way?

TellTails have decided to undo ‘nature's greatest mistake’ and thus have become purveyors of the finest handmade wearable tails for children on the planet.

Their extensive range of tails are unrivalled in design and quality and they pride themselves on being a locally produced toy, handmade in Hackney by an in-house team of 'tailers' who won't sleep until they have found the perfect waggle.

Born of festival blood, TellTails started as a fly pitch at a UK music festival in 2012.

Since then the company’s growth has been meteoric, now shipping globally from their online shop, touring the UK with two travelling tails boutiques and being picked up by London Zoo and Selfridges.

TellTails aren’t just for children either, indeed their

Doll-tastic IMAJO 01425 600600 www.imajo.co.uk

Classic toys!

TOY ESSENTIALS 01285 762039

Stand: GH2

The gorgeous range of Bonikka rag dolls will be making their debut at Toy Fair this year. Introduced to the UK

by Imajo, the collection continues to grow in 2015.

Now with over 25 designs to choose from, there really is a doll for everyone. The Ritzy Girls and Willettes are characterised by contemporary outfits with some very special fabrics and design features. The Naturals have soft gentle colours with a more traditional look.

Newborns are not forgotten with the incredibly soft and cuddly Butterfly Dolls. Whichever doll is chosen, they all have their own special unique charm and will surely ignite a child’s affection to become treasured best friends. Also on display will be the original and popular Anisa rag dolls alongside the Bebi range of knitted soft toys.

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famous wagglers have been seen donning the derriers of British stalwarts like Helena Bonham Carter, Kate Winslet and Prince Harry.

TellTails are a forward thinking toy company who boast a unique brand of imagination led play.

With thousands of adults and children globally already getting their waggle on, the tail effect is spreading and it’s most certainly coming your way.

To see the full range, or to get in touch with the Tailers simply visit their online shop www.telltails.co.uk

www.toyessentials.biz Toy Essentials will launch its latest collection, Classic World, at Stand: Toy Fair 2015.

G allery Classic World 147 is the umbrella brand of a superb line up of beautifully crafted, eco-friendly wooden toys. Classic World lines that will be stocked by Toy Essentials include Classic Builder, a unique wooden construction system that comprises wooden rods and various shapes which are connected with L shaped joints to create all sorts of wonderful structures.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Get active EAST COAST NURSERY

Stand : B56

01692 408802 www.eastcoastnursery.co.uk

Flower power

Stand: D36

This year East Coast are showcasing their Activity Cube, winner of the Slow Toy Awards 2013. The 5-in-1 toy has always been a favourite as it allows two or more children to play together. The irresistible sliding bead coaster features a cute woodland theme, with birds, bees and flowers for little fingers to whizz around the hollow tree. The Activity Cube is suitable from 12 months, and the chunky bead coaster and tactile peg maze will amuse younger children. For older children, the brightly coloured xylophone and chalk board will bring out their musical and artistic creativity. Spinning the hands of the colourful clock face will begin as a fun activity, but can later become a useful learning tool. Solidly made from wood with child friendly, non-toxic paint, the Activity Cube proves instantly popular with children and adults! The bead coaster can be placed upside-down inside the cube for easy storage, but East Coast bet it will spend most of its time up and ready for play!

LEARNING RESOURCES 01553819386 www.LearningResources.co.uk To mark their 21st year in business, Learning Resources reveal new additions to their engaging range of innovative toys and games. Extensions to the Primary Science, Nancy B, GeoSafari, Pretend & Play, Gears!Gears!Gears! and Design & Drill ranges can be previewed and must not be missed! At last, children from around the globe can experience the role-play fun the new Pretend & Play International School Set can deliver! A language-free version of Learning Resources’ best selling School Set designed for children as young as three. It may be cold outside but there’s plenty of opportunity for learning to grow with the budding new Gears!Gears!Gears! Build & Bloom Flower Garden. A new addition to the best-selling Gears range this set uses colourful gears and with a little construction children can create a magical spinning flower garden. Design & Drill Flower Power Studio introduces floral learning fun as you’ve never seen it before! An innovative flower-shaped “take-along” activity board allows little ones to stay creative on the move. Build motor skills whilst creating an electric light show with the new Design & Drill BrightWorks set. Illuminating colourful designs are created with the power drill and multicoloured plastic bolts. This and lots more can be discovered at Learning Resources Toy Fair stand.

Baby friendly fun TOMY

02087227300 www.tomy.com

Stan Gallerd: y 610

In 2015 TOMY have excelled in creating a plethora of powerful play products to ignite the imagination incorporating some of the world’s hottest licences, including the new Disney Pixar releases, due out in 2015.

With over 20 years of expertise in infant developmental and creative play, TOMY Infant and Toddler Toys offer an award winning range of toys suitable for children from six months to three years old. To view their full range, make sure to stop by their stand at London Toy Fair.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

That's magic!

MARVIN’S MAGIC 01582 849 000 www.marvinsmagic.co.uk

Stand: H65

Marvin’s Magic, internationally recognised as the brand leader and number one for magic worldwide, have created some fun and exciting new magic tricks for 2015 and will be showcasing magic ranges to suit all ages and price points at Hong Long, London, Nuremberg and New York Toy Fairs. One of the new products that Marvin’s Magic are launching this year is the ‘Masters of Illusion’ magic set which will include high quality professional props that are guaranteed to impress. The set will be promoted in conjunction with a hit TV show, so is sure to fly off the shelves.

Marvin’s Magic are also keen to expand their distribution into other key territories, after smashing targets for the third successive year in 2014, growing the business particularly in the Middle East, Australia and Scandinavia. Their bestselling sets are being relaunched with instructional DVDs which show how to perform the various tricks. Great cutting edge footage for the International market and perfect for youngsters who prefer a visual explanation. If you can keep a secret and want to find out more about what’s new for 2015, including new digital magic, you’ll have to visit Marvin’s Magic at Toy Fair where all will be revealed.

Get connected Ur-Tubes 07922581156 www.ur-tubes.co.uk Ur-Tubes Connect2Play is a simple, yet innovative new construction toy, comprising recyclable plastic tubes and connectors that connect together to create myriad shapes and structures. Children can build anything from a miniature house, a rocket ship, a boat, a car to different types of dens.

Ur-Tubes Amazing Den Kit is a new den-building kit that allows children to build lots of different structures, from fundamentally the same components.

The kit provides all of the materials required to build a den inside the bedroom or living room; in a conservatory or playroom; or even outside in the garden. The dens can be used for general play, for games, or for children just to have a secret place of their own to play or read by themselves.

Typical dens could be an igloo, a square den, a curved den or a tent den. Each structure is light, but robust, and easy to move around or take apart and store.

Stand: GH50

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LOTS TO SEE KD UK 01727 827194

Stand Galler : y 160

www.kdplanet.com/uk KD UK’s toy, interactive and production ranges will be exhibited at Toy Fair this year, including licensed and own brand electronic learning aids, plus new products within the Kurio range. A very exciting addition to the licensed ELA range is Thomas & Friends, which will include My Push & Learn Thomas a two-in-one item which features educational content and functional wheels for children to play along with the train. Peppa Pig continues to grow with three new lines including Peppa’s Click & Learn Camera, Peppa’s Zap & Learn Remote and Peppa’s Listen & Learn Smartphone. This and lots more.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Get posh POSH PAWS 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational. co.uk

Stand : D89

Posh Paws range continues to expand at fast pace and during the upcoming Fair season the company will showcase some of the hottest Disney movie plush around. The stand out movies for 2015 include; Inside Out, Star Wars, Cinderella and The Good Dinosaur. In addition the company will launch brand new product for existing bestselling brands including Frozen, Doc McStuffins, Palace Pets, Sofia the First, Winnie the Pooh, Mickey and Minnie.

Newcomers for 2015 also includes My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop, Kimmidoll and a new DreamWorks collection, as well as some brand new cute and cuddly nursery collections.

The company known for its high quality plush products have also seen great success expanding into the bag market. You’ll be able to see at the shows their extensive Despicable Me and Minion Movie Bag range. Alongside existing Disney plush bags and accessories, the company will also reveal Care Bears school backpacks and travel bags and some awesome new Frozen plush backpacks.

But if that’s not enough you can also see their licensed plastic and plush pocket money ranges which offer real play value at pocket money prices.

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Wooden glory LE TOY VAN 020 8979 2036 www.letoyvan.com

Stand: E10

New for 2015 is the Vintage Garage, a sturdy three storey painted wooden garage, featuring a working lift and curving ramps.

And it is scaled for Le Toy Van vehicle sets which are available separately. A great retro garage for car enthusiasts and a ‘younger brother’ to the Mike’s Auto Garage, at a competitive price for the margin hunter. Also look out for Petilou! Le Toy Van is delighted to launch a collection of seven new wooden toys for little ones: Petilou. Certified 12 months plus, this fresh new range comes with a woodland theme with owl, hedgehog and fox motifs. 2015 sees the launch of Daisylane Evergreen House, fully painted, decorated and furnished.

With more than a dozen doll’s houses, three collections of furniture and a plethora of accessories, it provides a collectable miniworld.

The Honeybake Home Collection sees the arrival of a new gelato set and a floor standing honey kitchen.

2015 also sees the arrival of lots of new lines for the PeLMeL Pocket Money Range bringing it up to a choice of 18 different PeLMeL assortments in stylish CDU’s.

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New New Gingerbread Man Finger Puppet Set

Finger Puppet Gift Sets Finger Puppet Gift Sets

Toy Fair - F66 | Spring Fair - H3, J18 | Nuremburg - H1, B-09 Fiesta Crafts Ltd - 3 Centenary Road, Enfield, EN3 7UD 020 8804 0563 sales@fiestacrafts.co.uk

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Stand: F66

Act out your greatest story FIESTA CRAFTS 02088040563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

F Fiesta Crafts has unveiled its latest products which will be available to buy this year. a Firstly, it’s introduced a brand new Pinocchio puppet set to iits already extensive collection, perfect for children who love tto tell and act out their favourite stories.

Reflective of the key characters in one of the most ttreasured children’s stories, the large Pinocchio hand puppet is supported by a series of embroidered fabric finger p puppets to make the retelling of this classic fun and fully p iinteractive. Not only is it a great toy for individual play, it is also designed to encourage role-playing with others to help a improve confidence and communication skills.

Also new to the hand puppet range are the Red Knight and Pirate individual hand puppets. Whether children prefer to save the kingdom from attack or take to the seas shouting ‘shiver me timbers’, boys and girls will both enjoy hours of fun making their own fairytales come to life.

The new range of ring teether toys is a great way to help babies on their journey of discovery and is not only fun to play with but practical too. The teether combines beautiful soft fabrics in vibrant colours and comes in four fun animal designs - elephant, lion, zebra and giraffe. It crinkles when squeezed and features three rings that make a jingly noise, introducing baby to new sounds as well as colours and textures.

The hugely popular Squeakaboos! soft toy rattles make the perfect toy for babies from birth to a year old. They jingle, crinkle and squeak when squeezed, making them a great interactive first toy for little ones. The Squeakaboo also be available in a pink or blue bear design.

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Stand H39

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@bigjigstoys

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LONDON TOY FAIR

Education station ORCHARD TOYS 01953859525 www.orchardtoys.com

Stand : B12

Boasting over 40 years of experience in educational games and jigsaws, Orchard Toys are delighted to launch new lines to their fun learning range. Championing Orchard Toys’ educational credentials is Match and Spell, a fun first reading and spelling game. The game has two levels of play to support development from word recognition to building words: match the letters on the word board, or try to spell the word

A roaring success POCKETBOND/TOYWAY

correctly using the blank side of the boards.

Match and Spell encourages letter recognition, teaches basic phonetic word building, and promotes matching of pictures and words.

Complementing the fun learning range is Big Number Jigsaw, designed to encourage number recognition and counting skills from one to twenty. This bold and colourful jigsaw is suitable to play on a table or as a floor puzzle and is full of fun characters and objects for children to count and discuss. Suitable for children aged 3-6 years.

What do I do?, a collection of six, large,

Stand : H22

01707 391509 www.pocketbond.co.uk Pocketbond are proud to be showing their exciting ranges of Dinosaurs at the London Toy fair this year.

Visit their stand to see the articulated “Lords of the Earth” with poseable limbs and the gigantic Jumbosaurs which are sure to impress - the T-Rex is over 47cm long! Possibly the most accurate and detailed museum quality dinosaurs out there right now are the Natural History Museum licenced collection. There are eight dinosaurs to collect including the ever popular Tyrannosaurus Rex, as well as favourites such as Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Diplodocus and more. Attractively priced and presented on a striking plinth display with fun facts and species data on the pack. Over 2,000 children a day visit the Natural History Museum - make sure they can find NHM dinosaurs in your store!

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three-piece jigsaws, featuring characters from different occupations add to the company’s growing two plus range of products. The jigsaws provide a fun first jigsaw for little hands and a discussion aid for parents to talk about the different jobs these characters do. Pizza, Pizza is a fun colour and shape matching game, for children aged 3-7 years, but unlike a traditional pizza, the toppings in this game are sometimes very unusual and yukky, which children find hilarious.

Golden!

HALILIT 01254 872454 www.halilit.co.uk Toy Fair 2015 marks a huge milestone for Halilit who will be celebrating thirty years of exhibiting at the trade show, and 50 years in business! New launches will be the new Rock ‘n Table from Edushape, a dual use outdoor toy that can be used one way up as an early rocking see-saw for toddlers from 2 years+, and then by turning the rocking see-saw upside down, the Rock ‘n Table becomes a play table for two. One of the new launches from Taf Toys is the three-stage developmental Cot Play Centre which comes with lots of play features and it attaches to both wooden cots and fabric travel cots. For a modern twist on an old favourite, the new Magnetic Fishing Set from Battat consists of two fishing rods with winding reels and magnetic ‘hooks’, and four colourful magnetic sea creatures, all stored in an easy to carry bag.

Stand: E90

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Role Play fun is much better when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Realistic!

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Suese at: Hong Kong Toy Fair - Booth 1A-F32 UK Toy Fair - Stand E30 Nuremburg - Hall 12 Stand C-04 New York Toy Fair - Booth 1589-1688

Inventors of Fun & Play!

Casdon plc. Cornford Road, Blackpool, Lancs FY4 4QW Tel: +44 (0)1253 766411 Fax: +44 (0)1253 691486 Email: toys@casdon.co.uk www.casdon.com

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Eat your worries up

Get animal 'appy

Coiledspring Games

07736 299200 www.anagranimals.com

ANAGRANIMALS

020 3301 1160 www.coiledspring.co.uk Meet Wanda the new Sorgenfresser Worry eater character alongside Flint Junior and a new assortment of six Sorgenfresser choice Key rings. Winner of the Editors’ cho award for Toy of the Show at last l Sorgenfresser year’s Toy Fair, Sorgenfress from have continued to go fro strength with strength to strengt well-known a number of we stores adopting the friendly high street sto Worry Eating friends. With a new lower RRP due to increased buying trade and R they’re an unmissable product power, they Coiledspring even have a giant worry Coiledsprin you’d like to feed it your eater if you troubles!

From Wrebbit 3D comes Fro the brand new New York collection: Midtown East and col Midtown West. The first two Mid puzzles in a collection of four puzz puzzles depicting Midtown iconic puz New York. Financial and World Trade will be available spring 2015. w Once assembled, these four O breath-taking stand-alone 3D br puzzles can be joined together pu to create a unique puzzle masterpiece Manhattan, containing nearly 3,500 of Manhatt pieces! design-led games, seek out For desig pocket versions of the highly the two pocke commended Extraordinaires Design Studio from the Creativity Hub - the team that bought you the multi-award winning Rory’s Story Cubes. These are a great introduction into the world of the Extraordinaires.

If you already stock Rory’s Story Cubes then you need to visit Coiledspring's stand for a sneak preview of something so secret that they are not able to breathe a word about it until the show!

Coiledspring Games are also excited to introduce a range of colourful wooden games for children from Blue Orange – Chicky Boom, Gobblet Gobblers and Pengaloo will appeal to store owners who stock traditional wooden toys but are looking for games outside of the usual chess, solitaire or Chinese checkers.

If you’ve not already heard about Robot Turtles from ThinkFun – the game that teaches pre-schoolers the principles behind computer programming (supporting the National Curriculum) then the team will be demonstrating the game throughout the show.

And finally they have plenty of new jigsaw images from Schmidt including new images in the best-selling John Deere range.

Stand : B160

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Stand : GH23

Industry newcomers, Anagranimals, are launching a unique range of collectable and interactive plush toys at Toy Fair this month.

Probably the strangest creatures that you will ever see, the Anagranimals are a gang of magical beasts each made up of several different animals. The characters include Heidi the Hippo-Croco-Puss, Pedro the Pig-Orilla-Roo and Ebenezer the Ele-ZebZee, to name a few. Each luxury, hand stitched toy, comes in three separate parts that stick together with velcro. A child owning a Hippo-Croco-Puss and a Pig-Orilla-Roo can swap and change parts to create a Hippo-Rilla-Roo or a PiggyCroco-Puss and so on. There are currently six characters to collect with up to 216 potential Anagranimal combinations.

“We wanted to do for our plush range what Apple has done with the App Store”, explained co-founder and Anagranimals CEO Leith Moghli.

The new toy range follows in the wake of the hugely popular Anagranimal story books. The first book in the series was published in Q4 2013 to rave reviews. More recently, the books have attracted the attention of publishing heavyweights Hachette and HarperCollins. “It’s an incredibly exciting time,” explains co-founder and managing director Heidi Ells. “The reception we have received over the past 12 months has been overwhelming”.

Anagranimals are currently producing their books and toys in-house. However, they are in active discussions with several potential licensees for future distribution and new product lines.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The toy testers EUROFINS PRODUCT TESTING SERVICES 0161 868 7600 www.eurofins.co.uk/product-testing.aspx

Chemical Specialists Eurofins are attending London Toy Fair this January and have plenty to talk to prospective clients about!

10 good reasons for selecting Eurofins as your business partner!

Stand : GH6

1.

Their focus is on providing solutions that add value to your business.

2. Their business is setup so that you can always talk to someone technical with your queries.

3. They have an unparalleled breadth of testing capability.

4. They have a global network of laboratories.

5. They have a service comes first ethic.

6. Their aim is to exceed your expectations.

7. They place a high priority on Quality Assurance.

8. They are ethical in all aspects of testing.

9. They operate ISO 17025 QA system throughout all testing laboratories.

10. They care about your business.

Get bizzy BIZZY BITZ 0208 806 8283 www.bizzy-bitz.com

Stand: GH 27

Bizzy Bitz is a new, highly creative, construction toy, which boasts numerous educational advantages for a very reasonable price-tag. This cool, addictive and fun toy is versatile, flexible and easy to use for children of all ages.

The brightly coloured plastic shapes lock together using a simple universal ‘ball and socket’ system. BizzyBitz gives children the complete freedom to let their imagination go wild as they set about creating all sorts of different shapes and models. From artistic necklaces and moving vehicles to complicated building structures and fun characters, children across the UK will love the limitless potential of BizzyBitz.

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With Eurofins background in the scientific sectors they are ideally placed to offer assistance on the chemical parts of the toy safety directive. In the ever-evolving world of chemical legislation they partner with their clients to provide understanding of the requirements and provide cost effective testing plans. Eurofins also have specialist facilities for the microbiological testing of toys which is required for toys containing water.

Risk Assessment As a leader in the field of toy safety, Eurofins offers authoritative advice on appropriate, cost-effective testing as part of a due diligence strategy for your products. They support their clients with guidance regarding legislation; focusing on the risks of each product and how to comply with the minimal cost and timing.

Eurofins Services With annual sales of US$ 1 billion and 12,500 employees across 170 sites in 33 countries, Eurofins is a leading international group of laboratories providing an unparalleled range of testing and support services.

Eduk8 yourself Eduk8 Worldwide Ltd www.eduk8worldwide.com 01434 672336 Eduk8 are delighted to be back at Toy Fair after such success in 2014. Not only were the popular Belly Bump Stand: Balls featured on BBC Breakfast TV GH42 on the first day of the fair, but they had such interest in the products, that they are delighted to be launching new twin packs - two belly bumps in one box - of both the large and junior versions at this year’s fair. Also launching at Toy Fair is the exclusive Super Star Theatre - a place where everyone can be in the spotlight! Suitable for ages 3 and above, it is made from durable polyester fabric with a connectable easy-to-assemble sturdy fibreglass frame. And it converts into a puppet theatre too! They also have their ‘hands-on’ science range for inquisitive minds, as well as a great range of wooden toys including the exclusive Puzzle Box. Contains three inner boxes and four rods of different sizes.

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THE WORLD’S GREATEST SUPER HEROES JOIN SCHLEICH

Unite with Schleich this year!

Visit us at London Toy Fair, stand B121 or Nuremburg International Toy Fair, Hall 6 stand B-20/C-21, to find out more about the amazing new collection of heroes and villains from the world of DC Comics.

Schleich UK, 4 Stansted Courtyard, Parsonage Road, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM22 6PU T: 01279 870000 E: schleich@schleich-s.co.uk W: www.schleich-s.com

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Get game!

ESDEVIUM 01420593593 www.esdeviumgames.com

Stand: E109

Esdevium will use Toy Fair as an opportunity to showcase their range of fantastic games and collectibles, whilst also launching a number of new titles.

After a late introduction last year, Esdevium’s best-selling Frozen board game will be available for the whole of 2015. The firm’s range of Disneylicensed games already includes Disney Princess, Jake and the Never Land Pirates and Doc McStuffins, and this year they will look to add even more in-demand licensed games for Star Wars, The Avengers, Marvel and more.

The Dobble Card Game had a sensational 2014, more than doubling its very respectable sales from the previous year, all without TV advertising. The game is an easy sell for retailers, with its raw fun and simplicity making it the perfect impulse purchase when shown to customers.

Esdevium believe there is still plenty of room to grow the brand and have recently introduced Dobble Kids to appeal to an even wider market.

Another big success from 2014, that Esdevium will be looking to build upon is the family game, Hotel Tycoon.

The beautiful-looking 3D game will again be supported by a comprehensive media plan but this time having already

Ground control REVELL GMBH

established a firm foothold in the market.

A welcome addition for Esdevium will be the FrontPorch Classics collection, featuring titles such as Shut the Box, The World’s Best Dice Game and Boneyard Dominoes. The games are presented in high-quality wooden boxes that open out to reveal the attractive components. The Front Porch Classics will be on display at Toy Fair and exclusive to Esdevium Games throughout 2015.

TV-licensed games are another growth category for Esdevium. After a soft launch in December, Toy Fair will see the official release of the 8 Out of 10 Cats and Countdown board games to join a collection that already includes Would I Lie to You and The Big Bang Theory party game.

Stand: Gallery 100

0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en Revell's position as a major player in the radio controlled sector is ramped up with several technologically advanced, multi-format Revell Control releases.

Quadmania has truly landed with an affordable firstperson view drone, the 2.4GHz WiFi Quadcopter X-SPY . This little gem is equipped with a camera to instantly stream video or pictures to your Smartphone via WiFi; crash, bash and fly for fun with the unstoppable 2.4GHz Rayvore Quad Copter, featuring four flight modes and high-powered motors; other heli highlights include the affordable Spot camera quad, the quirky triangular Quadcopter TRITAN and the licensed Eurocopter EC135 Flying Bulls .

On the ground, there are the exclusive to Revell Control, four brand new designs of the popular RC Mini Cars in a can; RC Mini Action is a range of emergency service vehicles in

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evocative ‘fire extinguisher’ packaging; and several entry-level, durable RC buggies and monster trucks complete the street scene. The multi-format RC range is rounded off with the fun Mini Boats. Key new releases include a brand new range of Build & Play Easy Kit cars, as well as new additions to the Star Wars Easy Kit range to coincide with the 2015 movie launch.

The standard Revell model kit range features major new releases including the latest in hybrid sports cars, the Porsche 918 Spyder and BMW I8 in 1:24 scale.

Brand new aircraft model kits include the Focke Wulf Fw190 F-8 in 1:32 Scale, a BAe Hawk T.1, C-54 Skymaster and an Avro Shackleton all in 1:72 Scale; fans of military figures will be looking forward to the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo set.

The creative toys sector is well-catered for with the arts & crafts range launch, MyArts, and several new releases for the summer action outdoor toys range.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Reach for the clouds, baby IVS GROUP LTD 0208 560 0009 www.ivsgroupltd.com

Created by award-winning art director Bridget Appleby, colourful animation Cloudbabies features the enchanting adventures of four adorable childlike characters whose job it is to look after the sky and their Sky Friends.

Aimed at pre-schoolers it teaches children about caring for others and the world around them.

Produced by Hoho Entertainment, the series made its debut on CBeebies in 2012 where it has consistently performed well in the ratings and has built up a solid fan base with a wide demographic and a strong

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Stand: Gallery 177

social media presence.

In 2014 Hoho Rights confirmed the IVS Group as the new master toy partner for the brand.

IVS Group has worked with some of the biggest global family entertainment brands including How to Train Your Dragon Live, Aardman Animations, Tweenies, Walking with Dinosaurs and Thomas & Friends.

Tasked with devising and implementing a long-term strategy for Cloudbabies’ product range IVS have expanded the existing toy line to cater for

a younger age group, aimed at 12 – 18 months onwards, with 10 new products which will be launched in January 2015 at Toy Fair.

In 2015 the launch of the new younger look toy range will be supported by a high profile PR and marketing campaign.

Meanwhile, internationally, the series has been sold to a number of territories across Australasia, South East Asia, the Middle East and Europe and HoHo is currently appointing sub-agents to develop and implement strategic licensing and merchandising programmes in those countries where the series is being aired.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Go geek chic THAMES & KOSMOS 01580 212000 www. thamesandkosmos.co.uk

Stand : G60

Thames and Kosmos will be exhibiting for the fourth time at Toy Fair and are looking forward to launching exciting new products for 2015, as well as exhibiting in their new location – stand G60! 2014 has been a busy year for Thames and Kosmos with several product launches throughout the year, including the popular Geek & Co range, several high street stores taking up a number of lines and a takeover by the German company Kosmos, who now own 80% of the shares. It is hoped that 2015 will be an even bigger year for Thames and Kosmos with rebranding for some lines, several new products to be launched and a focus on TV advertising and marketing.

This is the first year that Thames and Kosmos will be advertising their products on television, which will feature products from the Geek & Co range which has been proven to be very popular since its launch in 2014. If you wish to preview the ad visit stand G60 where the team will be happy to show you the products and answer any questions you may have.

Thames and Kosmos will have your favourite punk scientist with them – Brad Gross – who will be demonstrating all the new the kits and performing fun science experiments.

Customers who place an order at the Toy Fair will benefit from a 10% discount on orders over £1000 and 5% on orders over £500, including new stock.

Thames and Kosmos are also hoping to take on more sales representatives in the midlands and south west. If you are interested, drop by the stand and speak to the team.

For more information please contact Jo Drage by email on jo@ thamesandkosmos. co.uk

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Hey kids, get creative!

WEST DESIGN PRODUCTS 01303 297888 www.westdesignproducts.co.uk

Stand : C60

West Design is a family-owned, fast growing manufacturer, distributor and wholesaler of stationery, art and craft, toys and education products throughout the UK and worldwide, enjoying double digit growth year on year. The company employs 120 people across two premises – HQ and warehouse in Folkestone, Kent, and manufacturing division in Plymouth, Devon – including the account executives and reps on the road. As well as manufacturing half of its turnover in Plymouth - such as Kids Craft activity kits, Westfolio plastic folders and portfolios and Stephens school supplies – West Design is also sole UK distributor of LEGO Stationery and Marabu Craft Colours as well as sole UK and European distributor of the Faber-Castell Creativity For Kids (CFK) ranges. Wholesaler of other prestige brands, such as Winsor & Newton, Daler Rowney, Airfix and Decopatch, the company supplies to major retailer, as well as independent shops, including the Toymaster Group.

Jo Bray, Head of Sales and Marketing, says: “At Toy Fair 2015 we will be showcasing new launches within our existing ranges of Faber-Castell Creativity For Kids kits, LEGO Stationery, Fun Activity and own brand products. As exclusive distributor of LEGO Stationery for the past three years, we saw 100% growth in turnover last year – and that was before the success of the LEGO Movie this year. And with around 50% of their products manufactured in the UK and more than 60% of sales, by value, derived from products with their own brand names, and more than 40% of sales, by value, products manufacture in their UK factory, they are very proud to be able to say they are a UK based company.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

In pursuit of a winning move

Stand: F101

WINNING MOVES www.winningmoves.co.uk 0207 298 9507

Winning Moves will be unveiling lots of exciting new products within its licensed portfolio at Toy Fair 2015.

The much anticipated Minions Movie will have its own Top Trumps Tin, which will include cards based around everyone’s favourite little yellow creatures. Star Wars fans will also be in for a treat with the Star Wars Top Trumps Tin, which will also include characters from the hugely anticipated Episode VII film released later in the year. These new introductions will join the already strong performing Top Trumps range including Big Bang Theory, and the number

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one selling Top Trumps pack; Disney’s Frozen. The Top Trumps collection will also boast a new Breaking Bad pack for older Top Trumps fans. The company’s Monopoly Collection will be showcasing four great new products in the form of the multi

award winning Game of Thrones - which will see the US fantasy drama series immortalised in the classic Monopoly format - and the evergreen children’s characters from the world of Nintendo.

These will be joined by the gaming favourites Zelda and Assassins Creed, as well as science fiction favourite Doctor Who Regeneration.

The Trivial Pursuit offering will include the cult US sitcom Big Bang Theory, which joins the Radio Times Trivial Pursuit game. Last but not least, Halo Risk will be added to the company’s growing collection in a year which is set to be a big one for Winning Moves!

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

So much to choose from!

UNDERGROUND TOYS 01708 372727 www.underground-toys.com

Stand : G120

New ranges on show at Underground’s booth include: •

Star Wars: Talking Plush range including brand new “Roar & Rage Chewbacca” and “Lightsaber Battle Yoda” – feature plush with lights, sound and movement!

Just in time for the hype of the new movie The Force Awakens out in December 2015

•

POP! Vinyl – hugely popular, stylized collectible figures from more properties than you can think of - from Adventure Time to Frozen, Game of Thrones to WWE, DC to Marvel, My Little Pony to Star Wars.

•

Marvel: Avengers: Age of Ultron: Talking Plush range, a variety of characters and sizes. Movie in theatres in May 2015.

•

Sherlock gift range including stickers, bottle openers, keychains, iPhone cases and more!

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Underground Toys, incorporating Gear For Games, at London Toy Fair booth G120 holds the rights for an impressive portfolio of mega-brands including Star Wars, Doctor Who, Marvel, Sherlock, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, WWE, Peppa Pig, Ghostbusters, The Big Bang Theory and many more.

They will be exhibiting some classic and new products from existing ranges as well as showcasing some brand new items for 2015.

Underground originally became well known for their talking key chain products – the retro range In Your Pockets and pre-school range of 'Pocket Pals'.

They have successfully expanded into the Talking Plush arena and manufacture plush for Star Wars, Doctor Who, Marvel, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Ghostbusters for markets all over the world.

Most recently Underground have been expanding into the novelty, gift and homewares areas and will be showcasing items such as The Walking Dead figural cookie jar, Doctor Who kitchenware, Game of Thrones drinkware, Vikings gifting, Sherlock accessories and much more! Underground has a unique bond with Funko on the ever-popular POP! vinyl range – they partner together on licensing, development and distribution. Underground will be showing a vast array of the range on their booth - an impressive 1,300+ items to choose from!

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

The latest trends...

TRENDS UK 01295 768 078 www.trendsuk.co.uk

Stand : B20

Trends UK has a fantastic range of new toys, brands and licences to offer in 2015.

MiPosaur Trends UK is introducing MiPosaur, a truly advanced, highly intelligent dinosaur robot from WowWee in 2015.

Featuring incredible capabilities and fun personality, MiPosaur also has an evolving intelligence that enables it to sense its own surroundings and interact with them in a life-like way. MiPosaur comes with its own TrackBall. Just like a real pet, you can play ‘fetch’ and games with the ball. The new MiPosaur comes with a free app you can download to control MiPosaur and reveal even more thrilling features. The MiPosaur app will be updated long after launch with new features and games to play.

R.E.V Trends UK is introducing the new R.E.V – robotic enhanced vehicles from WowWee. Highly intelligent, the R.E.V vehicles are controlled via a sophisticated free battle-racing app. Built for speed and high-impact gameplay, the A.I controlled R.E.V vehicles can drive, fight and think for themselves. Each pack comes with two cars, you control one and the A.I controls the other.

Disney Frozen A beautiful selection of new Frozen feature plush toys will be available from Trends UK to coincide with the launch of Frozen Fever, the new short film arriving in cinemas in March 2015. The new Disney Frozen Singing Plush featuring Elsa and Anna have beautiful vinyl heads and huggable soft bodies. The lovely Elsa doll sings ‘Let It Go’ and sweet Anna sings ‘For the First Time in Forever’.

Available in a try-me pack.A stunning Disney Frozen Elsa Deluxe Styling Head will be introduced for autumn 2015.

Featuring colour change make up, beautiful hair accessories, light-up brush, hairdryer with realistic sound-effects and a jewellery box to hold accessories, the Disney Frozen Elsa Deluxe Styling Head also plays music as you brush her hair.

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WowWee Robotics Trends UK is supporting the WowWee robotics heritage range with TV support, maximising the on-going success of the brand. The Robosapien X and Roboraptor X will be available for 2015.

The cool robots come with a remote control for off-line play, but also has a new Dongle included. Insert the Dongle into your smart phone and download the WowWee app to play games, hear fun sound effects and control your robots through your phone.

Puppy Surprise Plush assortment has three beautiful dogs to choose from and each has a surprise number of puppies in their Velcro pouch. Available spring 2015.

For autumn 2015, Trends UK will be introducing a new ‘Kitty Surprise’ to the range. Featuring a beautiful mummy cat, the velcro pouch will hold three to five adorable kittens.

Color Me Mine For Spring 2015, Trends UK is introducing an exciting new colour change innovation into the portfolio.

The Color Me Mine Colour Change bags come with a cool colour change pen and at least three regular colour markers, enabling girls to style their bags with intricate designs in upwards of six different colours. The new Color Me Mine Colour Change range will include a selection of stylish bags. For Autumn 2015, the dazzling new Color Me Mine Diamond Party bags will be introduced.

Glamorous touches include pearlescent pink trims and bows plus glitter treated areas worked into the fabric for instant wow factor. The Diamond Party range will have a selection of purses, pocket bags, rope bags, messenger bags and casual bags to choose from.

All this and lots more!

Puppy Surprise Trends UK is re-launching the popular Puppy Surprise brand for Spring 2015.

Puppy Surprise is the much-loved ‘90s phenomenon featuring a mummy dog with a surprise number of puppies in her litter. The

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The Toy Fair, Olympia 20th - 22nd Jan STAND E110

Spring Fair, Birmingham NEC 1st - 5th Feb HALL 3 STAND H04

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

A charmazing line-up!

WOOKY EUROPE

Stand: 0 18 Gallery

01514943821 www.wookyentertainment.com Wooky Entertainment has come a long way in a few short years, moving from product distributor to product innovator.

Toy Fair 2015 will see a raft of imaginative product from Wooky Europe designed to encompass current trends and make the next move up the toy best seller charts.

Charmazing is the perfect Design-ItYourself jewellery craft line, for young designers. Style Me Up!’s Charmazing keeps tweens 8 + designing expandable and stackable bangle bracelets that can be charmed-up with style. Making their own custom charm bracelets with colourful threads, beads, gem, chains, pearls and much more! Charmazing offers more than 100 different charms in unique themed collections. Girls can also scan their charms to enter a virtual Charmazing world where they can trade charms with friends and connect with other fashionistas via the Charmazing free app. Charmazing offers a cross

between craft, social media and fashion.

The app notifies you of your friends’ Charmazing activity so you can see when they swap or add a new charm to their collection.

For young artists looking to create innovative fashions that reflect their own style, Style Me Up! offers a range of new sketchbooks, which cover a number of popular themes including Pop Star, Seasons, Cities, Puppy Love and Riding in Style. Each sketchbook comes complete with colouring pencils, stencil sheet, design guide and 50

stickers. A collaboration with Disney allows budding fashionistas to explore their creative talents across a range of Disney characters including Ariel, Cinderella, Tinker Bell and The Princess Collection which features your favourite Disney Princesses or choose the Villains Collection with those wicked Disney baddies.

Bloco is a range of 3D construction toys which has been refreshed for 2015, easy to assemble with specialised connecters these models are perfect for budding builders. Chunky and manageable for little fingers the Bloco range brings out creativity whilst encouraging the development of special and motor skills.

From Dinosaurs to Dragons, kittens to chameleons Bloco has it covered.

And last but not least...

Let’s talk about looming! Looming was the craze for 2014 and now Wooky Entertainment take a giant leap with the concept by introducing technology which will add a whole new dimension to the craft phenomenon for the coming year. Details are under wraps but all will be revealed at London Toy Fair, Gallery 180.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Princess paradise MARBEL 08456000286 www.marbel.co.uk

Stand: B50

Cornish based toy distributor Marbel will be at the Toy Fair again this year showcasing all of the newest products from the well-known brands BRIO, Hape, Nanoblock, Lottie, Pink Poppy, Bullyland and Oidroids.

Lottie Dolls are really covering the map this year! With adventurous and active characters from Stargazers and Fossil hunters there are dolls for boys and girls of all natures. There are some new accessory kits in the range as well with a scooter set, super hero outfit and a fishing kit. Adding the variety to the doll range is going to make this role play doll a diverse product for any shop that sells dolls or themed items.

Disney Frozen has been a big hit this year and there are a couple of new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;crowningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; figures to keep up with the coronation of Elsa.

Cinderella has had a makeover and new

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princess figurines have been introduced under the live-action name. The new figures represent the actors in the new Cinderella film.

BRIO have again given us some awesome design and quality products with additions to the theme park Rollercoaster Set that was released last year. A Ferris Wheel and a Fun Park Play set are adding some active and fun accessories to the range and what a ride! Interactive bells and spinning wheels make these a great addition to the wooden railway world.

Nanoblock will launch a few new products in 2015.

With ocean themes in mind watch the release of an Orca, Hammerhead Shark and a Rock hopper Penguin into the market this year.

Why not come and visit the stand at Toy Fair? Marbel are located on stand B50.

If you wish to make an appointment to see your local sales representative please give them or the office a call.

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New Wilder Game!

Emergin Emerging ng from the Jungle at Londo on n Toy Fair!

London Come monkey around with us at stand #F101.

+44 (0) 207 7 29 298 8 9500 sales@win ning gmoves.co.uk sales@winningmoves.co.uk w www.banan nagrrams.com www.bananagrams.com

Coiledspring Games @coiledspring

Come and find us on Stand B160 to discover our new ranges and best sellers.

New Sorgenfresser Worry Eater Characters

New Wrebbit3D puzzle collection

New from the team behind Rory’s Story Cubes

The game that teaches children to code!

New Rory’s Story Cubes

www.coiledspring.co.uk Call 020 3301 1160 for more information

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Bee Smart 02082626979 www.bee-smart.net

Stand: GH45

Bee Smart is a UK company providing innovative, fun and colourful wooden traditional toys for pre-school children that stimulate creative and imaginative play. Toys are of premium quality with an educational element, featuring unique designs and a practical edge. The innovative design-led toys will hold your child’s interest whilst enhancing hand and eye co-ordination, fine motor skills and creativity. Convenience for assembling and folding away are important design features and where possible practical storage is designed within the actual toys. Toys and gifts include pull along, shape sorters, skittles, music range, food play items, wooden kitchen and so much more.

Play it again, Sam A GIRL FOR ALL TIME 020 7060 6151 www.AGirlForAllTime.com

See the masterz!

CICADA 01708 733388 www.cicada-education.co.uk

: Stand B49

Visit Cicada Educational Equipment Ltd to view many new and exciting products on offer under the following four new to market brands: Masterkidz is range of high quality wooden toys. Papillon for children 0-24 months are nature-inspired toys that are entirely child-powered. Sri-Toys are a high quality range of brightly coloured wooden toys. Kidsme is an extensive feeding range including international award winning products such as the patented Kidsme Food Feeder which won the Hong Kong Innovation and Creativity Award and was nominated for the Innovation Award at the Kind + Jugend show the same year.

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Stand: GH11

A Girl for All Time is growing its range in 2015. Sam, Your 1960s Girl, is the latest addition to the multi award-winning range of historical play dolls, books and accessories in the A Girl for All Time collection, which continues to challenge the gender-neutrality toy trend. Created by British boutique toy company Daughters of History Ltd., the age-appropriate, educational companion dolls have been designed to appeal to modern, young girls aged 7+.

The newest member of the fictitious Marchmont family to be immortalised as a doll is Sam. Sam, Your 1960s Girl, is Clementine’s daughter and grows up in post-war Paris. It’s 1966 when tragedy strikes and she must move from Paris to stay with relatives in Greenwich Village New York City.

Sam wears a gorgeous mini dress and boots, echoing the style and glamour of the trendsetting 60s. Additional period-inspired costumes are also available for her, including stunning go-go boots and meticulously detailed accessories.

As the toy industry buzzes with news about gender-neutrality in the sector, A Girl for All Time is keen to remind retailers and parents that it’s OK for girls to be girls, as they showcase their collection of dolls at London Toy Fair 2015.

Founder Frances Cain explains, “It is absolutely more than OK for girls to play with toys which actively celebrate their gender. Too much attention has been given to the idea that overtly feminine toys and games are a bad thing – our range is very much focused on letting girls indulge in intelligent, stimulating play which honours the role of women and girls during specific historical periods. We pay a huge amount of attention to detail when it comes to the historical background of each doll, as well as their physical appearance. We know from our thousands of happy customers that quality dolls which also nourish the mind through play aren’t easy to find, so we’re pleased to be able to showcase the range yet again at London Toy Fair, and to introduce our newest girl, Sam.” The A Girl for All Time range appeals to modern, young girls aged 7+. It provides girls with a sophisticated, intellectually stimulating play companion who will take them on authentic adventures through British history, opening their minds and showing them how girls’ lives differed in eras gone by. A Girl for All Time also counters the age-compression trend, where younger girls increasingly reach for older toys – the collection embraces childhood imagination through traditional play by creating a toy that allows girls to understand and compare their own experience of childhood in a new and enriching way.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Fun with furry friends Keel Toys 01233 506363 www.keeltoys.com

Stand :

New for 2015 are the stylish Pippins collection featuring 22 enchanting and lovable fun-size pet and wildlife soft toys, including Meerkat, Puppy, Crocodile, Sheep and Kangaroo to name a few. Each is unique in character, finished in super soft fabrics and identified with their signature labels. Pippins are available individually or as a complete collection with chic floor stand. The stand holds 72pcs of stock and at a pocket money price is an ideal impulse purchase for Spring/Summer 2015.

The Sparkle Eyes range that features a glint in the eye has been a phenomenal success in 2014. The Sparkle Eyes trend will keep growing in 2015 with the new collections of Monkeys, Dogs including on trend French Bulldogs and multi-coloured Geckos and Snakes.

Your favourite farmyard animals have been designed into Tumbleweed Farm dressed in stylish brushed cotton dungarees and neckerchiefs. Available in two sizes these scruffy characters will look and work great down on the farm or in your urban store. To enhance the country theme Adorable Owls are now available in a large size and Hedgehogs that will simply make you smile with their cheeky faces and perky noses.

Winter 2015 will offer the opportunity to create promotions and spend builders with dressed Teddy Bears and novelty themed Penguins and Elves, supported by perennial favourites Husky’s and Polar Bears from the Signature Collections of luxury toys.

In fact every collection within the Keel Toy range has been enhanced to offer you and your customer the best possible choice in soft toys, Feeling is Believing! Visit a trade show in 2015 and we will be delighted to guide you around the range and tailor a personal collection for you.

B35

Don't cheat!

CHEATWELL GAMES 0845 22 66 516 www.cheatwell.com Cheatwell's Squeeze Stand: Poppers have gone F20 from strength to strength, with over 80,000 sold in 2014! To add to this they have introduced the gruesomely great Zombie Boy, complete with exploding brain, Sock Monkey, a top-seller from the US, and a sweet, squeezy Squirrel! Ballpopping fun for all ages, each Popper comes with six soft foam balls and a cool carry net. To add to the fun they've also launched a series of Keyring Poppers, so now you can take your favourite Popper with you everywhere!

Cheatwell has always been known for great board games and this year sees an explosion of new titles.

For the youngsters there’s Face Race, a fun-filled family board game that requires the eyes of an eagle and the reactions of a tiger! Joining the already popular Stand Up Sit Down and Scavenger Hunt, there’s Kids Charades, a twist on the traditional parlour game that teaches kids to communicate whilst having fun and laughter at the turn of a card!

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007-style PETERKIN UK LTD 01156 2543645 www.peterkin.co.uk One of the highlights on the Peterkin stand will be the superb range of products from Toy State International Ltd. As a result of Toy State’s acquisition of Nikko in 2014, Peterkin are now the official UK distributors of the James Bond 007, CAT and Hot Wheels vehicle range, along with the renowned Road

Stand Galler : y 110

Rippers and, of course, the Nikko RC range.

Fantastic products, backed up by exciting marketing plans, which should not be missed.

Look out for these products and lots more on the Peterkin stand at London Toy Fair.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

For all your Toy TesƟng needs: 9Advice and Consultancy 9Accredited TesƟŶg to European, US ASTM / CPSIA and China – GB standards 9Specialists in chemical tesƟŶg and requirements 9EC Type ExaminaƟons Your industry is our focus Contact: Judith Russell Tel: 0161 868 7600 Email: toys@euroĮns.co.uk www.euroĮns.co.uk/product-tesƟng Visit us at the Toy Fair this January: Stand GH6

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Wicked fun!

Wicked Vision 0203 195 1565 www.wickedvision.co.uk

Imagination at play...

Stand: E115

FIRST CELTIC TOYS

Stand: E100

Bringing the very best in proudly British made toys and games, Wicked continues to demonstrate its ability to reinvent the global toy market with three new and/or updated additions for 2015. Pop by their stand to see the Wicked Sonic Booma, a tri-blade boomerang with a 15-20 metre flight range. Nezt is the Wicked Micro Riderz Loop & Jump Pack. Featuring a full loop, four ramps and two Wicked Micro Riderz; you can now race your friends like never before. And finally, look out for Wicked UKick - a fusion of badminton and street football.

01978280070 www.tololearning.com First Celtic Toys and Learning have a host of exciting launches at the 2015 London Toy Fair.

The anticipation is building to reveal the newly designed retail packaging for the TOLO Classic Toy range. The clean design with attractive colours have been created to allow the products to stand out on the shelf and for customers to clearly understand the educational and developmental benefits TOLO brings to young children. The open box concept allows the true quality of TOLO to be experienced and demonstrates the award winning collection fully. The boxes have been colour coded with appropriate age bands for ease of selection when purchasing as a gift. In addition TOLO First Friends early years’ products have been extended with new items to its farm range which include a Stable and Pony set, delightful Scarecrow and pull-back Mouse.

The 2015 show will also be the launch pad for First Celtic Toys’ new construction toy, Octablox, a three dimensional building toy suitable from children of 3 years and above. This attractive multicoloured toy will create intrigue, excitement and engagement for hours at a time in the bid to build the biggest and best construction that fulfils imaginations. First Celtic Toys and Learning are committed to distributing high quality, award winning toys from a child’s earliest years through to early education.

Be nasty!

RASCALS 01473558185 info@rascals.uk.com

Really 'appy INGO DEVICES +34 615 258 910 www.ingodevices.com/en

Stand : D19

Ingo Devices will be at London Toy Fair, presenting the new range of Disney and Mattel app toys that includes brands like Frozen. The company will be presenting the new Ingo Tablet with microphone and One Direction karaoke app. Also look out for the Ingo Tablet with Microphone and Disney’s Frozen Karaoke App. This tablet comes with the latest Android system and all its features. Children will be able to sing original songs from the movie and record their performances. Visit the stand to find out more.

Stand : E109

Rascals, the company behind the iconic Mr & Mrs Game and The Really Nasty board game range, is attending Toy Fair this year and will exhibit fun family products on Esdevium Games’ stand E109.

Rascals will present its core three games, Mr & Mrs Family Edition, The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game and The Really Nasty Bankers Game. Pop by the stand to find out more.

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Belly Bump Balls

FINDING YOU THE BEST FIT FOR YOUR CAREER AMBITIONS, HELPING YOUR BUSINESS CATCH THE BEST TALENT. Call Rowena on 01590 674 212 or email rowena@tinderboxconsultants.co.uk for specialist recruitment in sales and marketing for nursery and toy.

For the latest vacancies and news, follow us @tinderboxjobs

Test a publisher’s statement of circulation. In today’s business climate you can’t afford not to.

Our ABC Certificate provides accurate, independently verified circulation figures, giving you confidence in your advertising investment.

If you want to reach 5,130* total average net circulation, then call Ryan Horwood on 01442 289945 or email ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk *. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 13 to 30th June 2014

For more information visit www.abc.org.uk or email info@abc.org.uk

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www.eduk8worldwide.com Call +44 (0) 1434 672336 See us at London Toy Fair - Stand GH42 Nuremberg Toy Fair - Hall 12, Stand C-01-2

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

20 years of innovation LeapFrog 01895 202840 www.leapfrog.com

Stan d B40 :

Following a ground-breaking year, LeapFrog, the multi award-winning educational toy brand will be kicking off its 20th anniversary year by exhibiting its innovative products from 2014 at Toy Fair, stand B40.

2014 saw two new additions to LeapFrog’s award winning line of LeapPad tablets as well as a bold move into exciting new territories with the launch of LeapBand, the first wearable kids activity tracker, and LeapTV, the first video games console designed specifically for young children.

Video gaming made smarter, LeapTV puts learning in motion with three unique ways to play for children aged three to eight years old. Designed from the ground-up for children LeapTV combines activity and movement with the best-in-class educational curriculum and was one of the top toys for Christmas 2014. LeapFrog also entered the progressive world of wearable technology with LeapBand in 2014, the first wearable activity tracker designed just for kids. The device encourages active play and healthy habits in children while nurturing their very own personalised virtual pet for children aged four to seven years old.

As part of LeapFrog’s exciting year, the brand also added LeapPad3 to its number one family of children’s tablets, the LeapPad family (NPD, November 2014). LeapPad3 is the fastest, highperformance five-inch screen tablet ever from LeapFrog.

Kid-smart, kid-safe and kid-tough LeapPad3 has been designed to provide children with the perfect combination of performance, durability and safety in their first tablet, along with access to LeapFrog’s award-winning Learning Library of over 700 games, apps, eBooks, videos, music and more.

WHAT TIME IS IT? Padgett Bros 01226 381188 info@padgettatoz.co.uk The FUNTIME range of pre-school toys just keeps on getting bigger and bigger. If you are looking for excellent quality toys that sell all year round, with fantastic profit margins both on an FOB and Ex-UK basis – The FUNTIME range is it ! The FUNTIME range can now be found in many of the country’s leading retailers in FUNTIME packaging or in the customers own brand. With over 150 items in the range, starting at a RRP of £1 and going up to £25+, there is enough in the range to cover the majority of price points. FUNTIME can be bought through a UK warehouse in the new packaging or through Hong Kong on an FOB basis, either in the FUNTIME artwork or in customer’s own packaging. Quite simply put, says sales director Alex Kenyon: “The range sells through for the retailer, whilst achieving an excellent margin!”

Stand: F15

Stack and clack Tegu Toyworks Ltd. 078 9466 1388 www.tegu.com

Stand : GH20

Tegu’s magnetic wooden blocks combine the twin joys of traditional building blocks and the gravitydefying ‘magic’ of magnetism. People are often surprised when two blocks satisfyingly ‘click!’ and ‘clack!’ together. All sets are compatible and are many toys in one, a race car, a lion, a family, a space station, an ice cream stand, anything a child can dream up!

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What a ride the New Year is going to be for wooden rail.

Call 0845 6000 286 to raise an order or request a catalogue.

Growing Great Brands

Stand B50 Hall 3 Stand Q04

The world of toys at a glance

The

The world of toys The world of toys at a glance at a glance The world of toys at a glance

Baby, Hobby & Leketøy c/o Press Telegraph A/S Postboks 1559 - Vika 0117 Oslo Norway Telephone: +47-22- 4405 06 E-mail: glasenap@online.no

Speelgoed en Hobby Postbus 7105 2701 AC Zoetermeer The Netherlands Telephone: +31 (0)79 320 31 23 E-mail: sinke@gebra.nl www.speelgoedenhobby.nl

Das Spielzeug Franz-Ludwig Strasse 7a 96047 Bamberg Germany Telephone: +49 (0)951 861 163 E-mail: s.wisotzki@meisenbach.de www.dasspielzeug.de

Kids Universe LEO bvba Rue des Ixellois 1 - 4000 Liège Belgium Telephone: +32 (0)4 224 7873 E-mail: jc@eventbox.be www.tgmagazine.be

Toys ‘n’ Playthings 1 Churchgates The Wilderness Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2UB United Kingdom Telephone: +44-1442-289930 E-mail: malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk www.toysnplaythings.co.uk

Weekly Toy News 4/F, AT Bldg., 1-2-3 Kotobuki Taito-ku Tokyo 111-0042 Japan Telephone: +81-3-3842 6001 E-mail: atsuko@gantsu.co.jp

Leksaks revyn Box 22307 104 22 Stockholm Sweden Telephone: +46 (0)8 508 938 17 E-mail: lena@leksaksbranschen.se www.leksaksbranschen.se

S´wiat Zabawek ul. Kierbedzia 4 00-728 Warszawa (Warsaw) Poland Telephone: +48 (22) 32 01 532 E-mail: awakulak@unit.com.pl www.unit.com.pl

Toy & Hobby 101 Fu Xing Men Nei Street Beijing 100031 China Telephone: +86-10-660 526 25 E-mail: ml_cnacc@yahoo.com www.toys-yourlinktochina.org

Juguetes B2B Provenza St. 249-251 4th floor - 2nd door 08008 Barcelona Spain Telephone: +34 93 325 3287 E-mail: e.alsina@edicionesjust.com www.key4communications.com

Lelukauppias c/o Martinex Oy, PL 46, 21201 Raisio FINLAND Telephone: +358 (0)50 307 5200 E-mail: toimitus@suomenleluhdistys.fi

The Toy Book 307 7th Avenue, Room 1601 New York, NY 10001USA Telephone: 212-575-4510 E-mail: jbreyer@toybook.com www.toybook.com

All these leading toy trade magazines are members of:

international toy magazines association

President: Mr. Malcolm Naish Toys 'n' Playthings United Kingdom Telephone: +44-1442-289930 E-mail: Malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Glob partn al e in the rs promo t of toyion s

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Jurassic and fantastic!

Stand: Schleich

B121

01279 870000 www.schleich-s.co.uk Schleich promises a journey into the realms of pre-historic adventure and comic book fantasy with a brand new option for dinosaur aficionados plus the debut of the stunning DC Comics series that will create a whole new sales chapter for the company’s prize

figurines.

Schleich’s dinosaur collection is a staple and produces more sales by figure than any other in the Schleich range. 2015 however will see Schleich take its prized pre-historic pieces and add to them with more even more dinosaurs.

These collectable Mini Dinosaurs include eight figurines to collect.

With 2015 tipped to be the 'Year of the Dino', Schleich intends to be at the front of the action with proactive Point of Sale solutions that will bring in-store theatre of the Jurassic kind to retailers.

Demand is expected to be high and retailers should ensure they stock both the new price point items and the existing favourite dinosaur collections without delay to meet consumer requests.

For comic book fans it’s time for the Justice League, as the Heroes of DC comics, not to mention their archenemies, make their way to the Schleich collection! Keeping with the fantasy theme, 2015 will also be a year in which even more mystical dragons land in Schleich’s World of Knights!

With intricate modelling, detailed hand painting and moveable parts, these dragons will harness a child’s imagination and can create active roleplay scenarios in their own right or can be integrated into the existing medieval world collections of Knights, Steeds and Castle playsets.

Off the scale sales!

ALPHA TOYS 00353 67 63800 www.alpha-toys.co.uk

Stand: Gallery 515

Siku continue to develop many new items in scales 1:87, 1:50 and 1:32. This year the delayed releases from late 2014 will be released in January, providing some good consumer interest early in the year. As usual there will be four other release packages released later in the year. The blister range with its all year round demand continues to go from strength to strength and will have some very interesting additions during the year.

There's good news also for Bugatti fans. Following the two limited edition sets released in 2014, will be a further two for 2015 - the first released in January and the second later in the year. These are gift sets of three cars in previously unreleased colours, boxed in a limited edition black gift box. These gift sets and the new releases for January will be showcased at Toy Fair.

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Cleaning up in 2015!

Sta Casdon

The beautiful Bonikka family of rag dolls will be making their debut at Toy Fair.

Come and choose your favourites!

nd:

E30

Also on display will be the original and popular Anisa collection of rag dolls alongside the Bebi range of knitted toys

01253 766411 www.casdon.com Casdon is the driving force behind a fine range of branded and generic child-size home maker toys such as washing machines, cookers, vacuum cleaners and more. Ever present in the home these toys are the focus of many a game of “let’s play house” and the choice for parents that want their little ones’ play experiences to be as close to the real thing as possible.

This year will see more to choose from under the Little Cook sub-brand including an expansion of the successful Morphy Richards toys with a replica Microwave. Complete with turnstile, lights and sounds, kids won’t be able resist cooking a make believe ready meal or two or can really get into it by warming up some pretend beans to be served on pretend toast from their Morphy Toaster and a fine cup of tea made with their Morphy Richards Kettle. The kitchen accessories are not only authentic but affordable too and can be bought separately or all together as one great value set!

All kids need to learn how to clean up after themselves and this is where Casdon’s Little Helper collection has just the thing to encourage them. Here you’ll find the top quality evergreen role-play toys, such as “Dyson” and “Henry” replica vacuums that continue to go from strength to strength.

Other collections include the Little Shopper range with its tills, trolleys, baskets and replica products with which to set up shop, plus the Little Drivers range where they can learn their first motor skills, whether at home or in the back seat of the car!

2015 is also a year that Casdon will expand its marketing support for retailers. With so many satisfied parents already on side, this will include a strategic year-round online campaign and social media schedule to further the awareness of all the firm’s much-loved toys.

JANUARY 2015

ir Toy Fad Stan GH2

W : imajo.co.uk E : info@imajo.co.uk

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Party puzzles JUMBO GAMES 01707 260436 www.jumbo.eu

Stand: E46

Jumbo Games is the No.1 manufacturer of adult puzzles in the UK*, producing Wasgij - the leading adult puzzle brand, Falcon de Luxe - the high quality traditional puzzle range and Puzzle Mates – the one stop shop for all puzzle accessory needs.

Jumbo is the No. 2 manufacturer in the children’s puzzle market*, with a successful portfolio of licenses including Peppa Pig, DC Batman and Superfriends, Something Special and Fireman Sam, Disney Frozen and much more Jumbo Games will be launching some fantastic products at Toy Fair 2015 including Wasgij Imagine…General Election special - three 1000 piece themed puzzles centered on the possible fictitious outcomes of the 2015 General Election. The image on each box depicts key political figures in the House of Commons taking part in a heated debate. Despite the Speaker trying to maintain order, MP’s are misbehaving and some familiar faces are dotted around from past and present day. Depending on which version of the jigsaw is chosen, puzzlers will need to figure out what the ‘solution’ of the jigsaw will be if the selected party wins.

Each box is colour coded to reflect the different political party’s… Blue - Conservative, Red Labour and Yellow - Liberal Democrats.

Falcon puzzles – new January launches which include themed puzzles such as Mother and Daughter, which would make a fantastic Mothers Day gift and The Rugby World Cup, which would be great for Fathers Day. Jumbo will also showcase their fabulous Falcon Christmas 1000 piece puzzle depicting a warming pantomime scene with lots of families watching a fun Christmas classic tale.

Established in 1853, The Royal Jumbo Group is one of the oldest toy companies in Europe.

Jumbo distribute several lines for other companies in their domestic markets.

Approximately 130 people work for the Jumbo Group, which has its headquarters in Zaandam, Netherlands with offices in Belgium, Germany and the UK – each selling to its own market. There is also an export department, which handles sales to other parts of the world. *Source: NPD YTD October 2014

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Fit and fun!

TRADITIONAL GARDEN GAMES 028 777 22562 www.traditionalgardengames.co.uk

Stand: Gallery 144

Traditional Garden Games promote an active healthy lifestyle through their extensive range of traditional and timeless toys and games.

Traditional Garden Games has announced the launch of a new sales and marketing campaign aimed at the toys and games industry.

The campaign incorporates a brand refresh of the three core traditional brands offering, a new interactive website dedicated to trade customers, product catalogue, trade advertising, creative product sponsorships/competitions and a high impact public relations programme.

The Traditional Garden Games range reflects the importance of tradition and heritage and encourages participation, competitiveness and fun. The Traditional Fun and Games range make leisure time more enjoyable for all the family and inspires children’s involvement and interaction. Finally the Traditional Sports and Fitness range encourages the young to stay fit and healthy by engaging them in time honoured classic sports.

Richard Alexander Smyth, Sales and Marketing Director with Traditional Garden Games is confident that the timeless brands offer the right levels of choice demanded by today’s mass consumer markets and reflects the highest standards of quality and safety.

“Our dedicated quality department endeavour to maintain long term relationships with suppliers and partner companies. The importance of quality safety and testing reflected in our products is emphasised by our participation in the Bureau Veritas toy manufacturer information days.

"As a national and global brand we care about our customers and work hard to continue offering new high quality products including the versatile Badminton, Volleyball and Tennis Play Set and Foldable football goal.”

If you would like to find out more about the company's traditional brands and their introductory offers for the 2015 season visit their stand at Toy Fair.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Game on!

Stand : E15

GREEN BOARD GAMES 01494538999 www.greenboardgames.com As always Green Board Games will be flying the flag at the forthcoming shows with a host of new products as well as the bestselling BrainBox and family ranges. Never ones to miss out on the fun, the GBG tour will once again take in Hong Kong Toy Fair, London Toy Fair, Nuremburg and Spring Fair! The BrainBox range has once again exceeded itself with new titles including On The Farm, Space and Cities of the World to support the top selling BrainBox The World.

2015 will see the first BrainBox pre-school games launched which are just fantastic, as well as another new BrainBox range which is still a top secret. That’s not all, there will also be some great new quick learn quick play games which will have you hooked in seconds, some new Build and Learn animals, and a host of new books and games. For those who are more education focused, the company will be showing their Green Board Education range which is linked to the National Curriculum and includes multi game play ideas for teachers and parents to support children’s learning. All of this plus you will be greeted on the GBG stand with a big smile, plenty of enthusiasm, and maybe a treat or two, come and see them to find out more.

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Style at your fingertip...

FLYPE +33 607 605 116 www.flype.com FLYPE is definitely a new kind of toy.

Stand : GH40

Coming directly from the other side of the English channel, this new amazing pocket money skills game is often thought of as the yo-yo of the 21st century!

Created by former aeronautics engineer and fully-manufactured in France, Flype spins evenly at your fingertip, with the grace and poetry of a butterfly, as long as you perform more and more creative movements with your finger, arm and body!

Loved by boys and girls, parents and the child in you, FLYPE is suitable for 5-year-olds and over, with a main 8-12 years interest group. It can be played indoors and outdoors. There are more than 100 designs available to collect.

FLYPE is great for developing focus, psychomotor skills and creativity, while moving around. It requires no battery and makes no noise. It’s very lightweight and fits in any pocket.

With FLYPE’s stunning wow-effect, everyone wants to give it a try, learn more and more tricks, develop they own style and unveil their talents!

A must see and have!

This multi award-winning compendium of technology and design comes in three pieces with different visual patterns together in one retail pack, along with a protective and regenerative casing, to carry them away anywhere.

• Flype TV demo display boxes are available to retailers.

• Flype animation kits are available to recreation professionals.

• Flype customisation service is available to advertisers.

Contact Danny Coffey on 01707 391509 E: trade@pocketbond.co.uk

www.pocketbond.co.uk

For all your prehistoric needs, visit us at the London Toyfair (H22) and Nuremburg Spielwarenmesse (7-F-31)

JANUARY 2015

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PREVIEW

LONDON TOY FAIR

Designs on you!

TRAVIS DESIGNS

Stand: G50

01442289898 wwwtravis.co.uk Travis are launching thier Disney Baby Princess range at the Toy Fair This award winning range of dress up apparel for babies now offers over 30 styles including the new Disney Baby Princess range. Characters include Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Rapunzel.

The Disney Baby styling is offered from 0-2 years and includes many of the popular Baby focussed characters. The all-time favourites including Winnie the Pooh and friends, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Marie and 101 Dalmatians have been great sellers in 2014. The styling includes soft and cosy plush, cuddly tabards, dresses and tutus.

Look out for plush launch styles which include Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Kermit. There is also a jersey range which offers a great option for warmer weather and climates. Styling includes jersey rompers with feature hood and cute bodysuits with a feature hat in sizes up 0- 18 months. Also on show will be the generic Dress Up by Design range with over 125 styles to choose from and featuring some great new styles including Fuchsia Fairy, the Musketeer and a fabulous ‘Ride on’ Pony. And come and see the Sophie la Girafe baby costumes. The plush styles include a romper with a cute moulded head hat, a soft and cosy tabard, a gorgeous tutu style and a winning Sophie puppet. Travis Designs produce beautiful baby and children’s styles for generic and licensed ranges. We also work with major retailers for exclusive development and offer an in-house ranges for in

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Wanna have fun?

WANNABEES 07900 936085 www.wannabees.co.uk

Stand: GH32

Wannabees launched their range of imaginative role-play packs, providing everything children need to ‘pretend’ to be the profession of their choice in October. The packs contain forms, stickers and certificates that children can use to feel like they truly are ‘playing for real’.

The first two packs on the market, ‘I Want to be a Teacher’ and ‘I Want to be a Doctor’, provide everything a child needs to play at being a teacher or doctor. And Wannabees will be launching their latest pack ‘I Want to be a Café Owner’ at the Toyfair itself.

The packs strip everything back to basics and encourages children to use their imagination, a toy that really is all about ‘playing for real’. Perfect for kids aged 5-10 years.

Just four weeks after launch, Wannabees earned a winner’s badge in the National ToyTalk Awards, winning the Role-Play Toy category. This follows on from their Jacqueline Gold #WOW award just two days earlier.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

R

Doctor’s set

Carlo’s Gelato

R

Cafe Machine

BTHA Toy Fair London E10 SPRING FAIR Hall 3L48 INT. TOY FAIR Hall 3D34 Call us on ++ 44 (0) 208 979 2036 Fax. 0208 9797537 Email.sales@letoyvan.com

w w w. l e t o y v a n . c o m

DON’T MISS… In our new feature we bring to the fore a selection of the hottest and newest products that will help you sell more!

Buyers and retailers, get in touch with your sales contacts!

Product: Monchhichi Company Bandai Tel: 01489 790944 Email: sales@bandai.co.uk

Product: Something Special Roll and Play Company: Golden Bear Tel: 01952 608308 E: customerservices@ goldenbeartoys.co.uk

Product: Pizza, Pizza!

Company: Orchard Toys Ltd Tel: 01953 859520 Email: sales@orchardtoys.com

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Product: Robot Turtles Company: Coiledspring Games Tel: 020 3301 1160 Web: www.coiledspring.co.uk

Product: My Little Pony Rainbow Dash Style n Groom Company: HTI Toys UK Ltd Tel. 01253 775544 Email: sales@htigroup.co.uk

Product: Schleich Mini Dinosaurs Company: Schleich Tel: 01279 870000 Email: schleich@schleich-s.co.uk

Product: Rampage Arena Company: Flair Tel: 0208 643 0320 Web: www.flair.co.uk

Product: Top of the Tables Company: Learning Resources Tel: 01553 819380 E: sales@learning-resources.co.uk

Product: Sherlock Top Trumps Tin Company: Winning Moves Tel: 0207 298 9500 Email: sales@winningmoves.co.uk

toysnplaythings.co.uk

LICENSING OPINION KELVYN GARDNER

Does January bring joy?

D

o business people look forward to January?

Let me rephrase that. Do consumer goods business people look forward to January? Does the toy business look forward to January? Let’s face it, January has a bad reputation. For most retail businesses the boom time is almost over for another year.

The sales, of course, still bring the shoppers in, but even they lack the lustre of yesteryear such is the proliferation of promotions in each quarter.

For consumers, even if they didn’t notice it themselves, the press will be quick to remind them that their credit cards bills, bloated with Yuletide expenditure, will need settling, and those Autumn deals – ‘Buy now, pay February 2015’ look a little less appetising, just when it’s too late. I have to declare an interest in January, however, as it’s the calendar month of my birth. That’s quite handy, actually, as it gives people an excuse to celebrate (or at least have a drink!) in what’s otherwise a flat month. One thing January is equally filled with is clichés about ‘looking forward’. It’s all an illusion, of course. It wasn’t until the 17th Century that the Christian church even adopted January as the first day of the year: previously it has been March (close to what we now know as Mothers’ Day, as it happens).

In the licensing business, and the toy business, the arrival of 2015 means reality – now we will find out if the stuff we’ve been told was going to be killer-diller ‘next year’ can really deliver for us. So let me look back, as it were, before going into the future, still referencing January.

Back in January 1967, an 11-yearold boy got the bus from home to the barbers for a much needed (according to his mum) back-to-school haircut. Sitting on the board across the arms of the rotating chair (do they still have these things – the boards, I mean, not the chairs?) to be raised a manageable height, the boy realised that the barber needed to get a move on, as it was already past 4pm, and the boy had to get home by 5pm to watch the hit show that had just enjoyed its first merchandising Christmas, Thunderbirds. Now Thunderbirds was big in 1966 and 1967, but how would this small boy recall one haircut out of all the many, in such clarity.

Well, it’s because, whilst sitting in the chair that day, the BBC news of the barber shop telly announced the death of another boyhood hero, Donald Campbell, who had crashed his speedboat, Bluebird, in the Lake District whilst attempting to beat his own world record. Thunderbird.

Bluebird. It stuck. In case you haven’t guessed, the small boy was your correspondent. And so as we reach another January, I wonder with an unusually high interest whether the all-new 2015 Thunderbirds can deliver

for today’s small boys (and not-so-small retailers) when it debuts on ITV in April. The modern show will face much stiffer competition, of course, than its illustrious predecessor.

Also lined up for our licensing, merchandising, and toybiz delectation for 2015 are the likes of Minions, Jurassic World, DreamWorks Dragons, more Marvel heroes, Transformers, and, of course, Star Wars.

That’s without counting the myriad power brands that won’t be giving up just because a new year has arrived. As for me, I’m probably due for another January haircut. Less hair to cut, no board to endure, and, hopefully, no real-life hero to lose, though my barber, in 2015 as in 1967, is an Italian gentleman, to continue at least one old tradition.

See you all at Toy Fair, for what they’ll be telling us to watch next time around.

Harking back to Januarys of yore, Kelvyn wonders what hot properties will make a mark on the industry in 2015

LIMA the trade association for the licensing business www.licensing.org/uk email rbeaird@licensing.org

JANUARY 2015

1

Brought to you by

licensing ns sing T O D A Y

W O R L D W I D E

Pokémon brand at all time high

PREPARE FOR THEIR ARRIVAL… As the industry steels itself for the arrival of Teletubbies product in 2016, DHX Media has announced a raft of new licensees. New licensees secured include Worlds Apart (Furniture & Accessories), Aykroyds (Nightwear and Underwear), Character World (Bedding), Amscan (Partyware), Bon Bon Buddies (Confectionary), Posh Paws (Bags) GB Eye (Posters) and Zak UK (melamine tableware).

The licensees join a growing roster of partners – Character Options, Egmont, Ravensburger, MV Sports and International Greetings.

CPLG, the UK licensing agent, has signed up Gemma to produce greeting cards and Rainbow Productions for costume characters of Tinky Winky, Laa Laa, Dipsy and Po. Peter Byrne, EVP, DHX Brands added: “This impressive line-up of licensees underscores the considerable appetite there is in the market for the new Teletubbies, as well as demonstrating the enduring appeal of the brand. It is fantastic to have this momentum for the property at such an early stage.”

The new 60-episode series of Teletubbies has been commissioned by the UK’s CBeebies and is being produced for DHX Media by UK production company, Darrall Macqueen Ltd.

The global entertainment gaming brand Pokémon is ramping up for continued success following the much-anticipated launch of the new video games, Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, at retail. The release will be followed by a comprehensive consumer product rollout across 2015.

With huge demand and record sales of the new video games, interest in the global gaming brand is at an all-time high. The video games shipped 7.7 million units worldwide since they launched in Japan, the United States and Europe in November 2014.

“Thanks to the phenomenal success of the Pokémon X and Pokémon Y range, there is huge interest in the Pokémon brand,” said Anthony Cornish, Marketing Director at The Pokémon Company International. “We have built on this swell of consumer interest and engagement with an innovative marketing campaign for Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire which has been extremely ambitious in its nature and scale. It has given us a fantastic springboard for our consumer product rollout in the New Year.”

The expansion of the European licensing programme follows a period of growth for the Pokémon brand globally. The renewed strength of interest in Pokémon has been cemented by the recent signing of ten new European licenses across a variety of categories, including apparel, back-to-school supplies, footwear, food and drink, confectionery and video game accessories. They complement existing licensees, including a master toy partner, and partners for apparel and accessories, bedding and back-to-school products.

Merlin makes a comeback Merlin fans rejoice: Topps has announced it is reviving the brand on its 22nd official Premier League Sticker Album. The Merlin brand was used on the first official Premier League Sticker collection (launched Jan 1994) and was a familiar cover icon until 2009, when the company changed its name to Topps.

Topps believe the

name change back to Merlin is likely to ignite a sense of nostalgia in fans and former collectors that can be indulged with this allnew edition for 2015, which will profile the biggest stars of the current Barclays Premier League season and features the very latest player photographs, home and away kits and club badges.

NERD CORPS SNAPPED UP BY DHX MEDIA The face of the Canadian licensing market looks set for a change after it was announced that DHX Media has acquired Nerd Corps Entertainment Inc, the company behind Slugterra.

At a cost of $57 million, the transaction was closed

by December 24, 2014. The transaction brings more than 200 half hours of proprietary children’s content to DHX’s

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library, including the hit comedy adventure series, Slugterra, which has been broadcast in more than 150 countries and is one of the most popular titles on Disney XD in both Canada and the US. The deal includes licensing and distribution rights for all proprietary Nerd Corps series. The acquisition will increase DHX’s staff level in Vancouver from approximately 300 to 700 personnel.

LICENSING

NEWS Di

LOOK LIKE YOUR FAVE SOCCER STAR

GOSH! THAT’S A GREAT RANGE

Mask-arade has unveiled its official Arsenal Football Club Face Masks. Six popular player faces will launch the range and join Mask-arade’s other successful licensed football face masks.

Mask-arade say the current FA Cup holders are expected to be amongst the top selling licences for Mask-arade this Christmas.

The iconic Bagpuss has embarked on a new licensing partnership with Gosh! Designs.

Coolabi Group and Smallfilms announced the new agreement with Gosh! Designs recently and the agreement will see Gosh! launching a new and extensive range of Bagpuss plush and giftware at Spring Fair 2015. The range will include novelty plush hats, plush backpacks, key chains, door stops and ceramics such as travel mugs and coasters.

Products will be available instore from Spring 2015.

Sweet deal The Mask-arade team sporting Arsenal FC Masks; Wilshere, Sanchez, Giroud, Walcott, Ramsey and Ozil

Divine Disney Enesco has a pretty special licensed Disney collection launching in January 2015. In their Disney Showcase Collection no detail is overlooked, with an impressive live action Maleficent; two Disney princesses in the shape of Belle Bride and Cinderella Bride, Jessica Rabbit and a very dapper Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse with glitter, real feather boa and diamanté jewellery.

Frozen’s Elsa also makes an appearance. Enesco’s Enchanting Disney collection is equally as impressive and also launches in January 2015, while in the Disney Traditions collection, award winning artist Jim Shore combines much loved characters from Disney films with American folk art inspired patterns and bold colours, in a style that is unique and instantly recognisable. Also look out for The Disney by Britto collection which combines today’s most sought after contemporary artist with the number one family brand, offering a truly unique collection.

JANUARY 2015

Cartamundi has partnered with Discovery Consumer Products, the licensing arm of Discovery Communications, for three new family card games based on the popular Animal Planet TV series, Too Cute.

The Animal Planet: Too Cute range includes a Domino game in orange packaging, a Happy Families game in pink packaging and a Pairs game in blue packaging.

Like the shows on which they are based, the illustrations on the cards will be of baby animals that are just ‘too cute’. The games will be available separately and in a threein-one pack from early 2015. Animal Planet: Too Cute will be launched at both London and Nuremberg Toy

Fairs.

Trudi Bishop, Head of Marketing and Licensing, Cartamundi, said: “Soon after it arrived in 2011, Too Cute quickly struck a chord, making it one of the must-see documentary strands for families and children.

The puppies, kittens and other baby animals that make it so appealing are ideal for the family card games that we excel at. We are delighted to have the chance to collaborate with Discovery on these delightful new games.”

POU TO YOU! Independent licensing agency TPA has been appointed UK licensing agent for the popular app POU. POU is the cute alien pet that, in the two years since its developer Paul Salame launched it, has received 260,000,000 downloads worldwide, inspiring a global licensing campaign.

Players are invited to feed it, clean it, play various levels of games with it and watch it grow, all the while customising its look with a variety of outfits and accessories.

Demand for real-world product has now become so great that a global POU licensing programme has been launched, with everything from mobile phone accessories to toys and t-shirts. The initial target market will be children aged 4-12.

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PREVIEW

CHARACTER LICENSING

Full of character With sales of licensed toys up on last year, TnP takes a look at how character licensing can make an impact and add to retailers offering P l us

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but also from new sources, like online 29 2 gaming and social media,” he adds.

“Kids are Surprise Soaps! becoming sophisticated (and fussy!) about what features their toys need to have, and because of this, toy companies are always having to come up with new and exciting ways of keeping them engaged.”

Julie Jones, Joint MD at Redan Publishing says exposure to licensed characters through a vast array of media platforms means they are now ingrained in children’s way of life. “Dedicated children’s channels, online media streaming, websites and apps and phones mean that from the moment they wake up to the moment they go to sleep, children have constant and instant access to their favourite characters.

They are on the food they eat, the clothes they wear, the books they read and in the games they play. It is no wonder then, that the toys they choose to spend time playing with are the ones that include their most loved characters, who have come to feel like part of the family.” stickers inside

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haracter licensing and the toy industry go hand-in-hand.

Character licensing is all about brand extension and more and more retailers are displaying a range of child-friendly character licensed products like magazines, video games and more to make an impact.

Making an impact So what is the appeal to children?

Why is character licensing considered an avenue to a successful toy line? Sissel Henno, Head of Brand Licensing at SEGA Europe hits the nail on the head: “Kids relate to characters that they know, and as such, character led products based on popular TV shows, movies and videogames have a compelling USP.” Nick Cooke, Director of Hardlines at DreamWorks Animation UK, says that licensed toys help keep the industry fast-paced, fresh and dynamic. “There is a constant flow of new licences hitting the marketplace, traditionally coming from new movies and TV shows that launch,

Top 5 licenses: 1 Frozen 2 Star Wars 3 Disney Princess 4 Peppa Pig 5 Thomas & Friends Source: The NPD Group Retail Tracking service covering 75% of British toy sales – YTD Nov 2014

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number two new property within action figures (NPD Oct 2014, YTD).”

In terms of 2015, Julie predicts some new and more familiar characters making an impact on the scene. “We are excited to be including Boj in next year’s line-up along with Paw Patrol, and the brand new Clangers show, all of which we feel are going to prove really strong next year.”

*

What is selling well?

According to The NPD Group’s Retail Tracking Service, licensed toys represented 28% of all toy sales in the first 11 months of 2014, which they say is a turnaround from 2013.

In fact, they say sales have increased by 10% to date. So what are the top five toy licences? It is no surprise to hear Frozen comes in at number one followed by Star Wars, Disney Princess, Peppa Pig and Thomas & Friends. Over at DreamWorks, Dragons is the word. “Our top performing character in 2014 has been How to Train your Dragon. The movie released in the UK, and took over £24 million,” Nick says. “This success has translated into strong toy sales for master toy partner Spin Master, with Dragons being the

When kids spend hours playing games and watching their favourite show, they Any character can be a hit! want toys that Traditionally, characters seen on the TV screen were the staple of immerse licensing but nowadays, them into that character they are joined by a whole host of world others who are all making an impact.

Sissel Henno, SEGA

”

For retailers, this means being aware all mediums which children are consuming.

“There is definitely more impact coming from videogames based IPs, whether console based, mobile based or a combination of the two,” says SEGA’s Sissel.

Julie adds: “Frozen has proven there’s nothing like a successful movie to launch a major character brand, especially in the pre-school market where you need to win over parents as well as the children and digital access is often more restricted. Other movies such as Toy Story, Despicable Me, Harry Potter, Shrek to name but a few have all done well in the toy area.”

Meanwhile DreamWorks’ Nick says that it’s online where brands can now find a foothold and grow in completely new ways. “We all know the merchandising success that Mind Candy has had with Moshi Monsters, and how popular Minecraft has been in its expansion into other nongaming categories. Awesomeness TV, our YouTube channel for teens and older, is a perfect example of how You Tube is providing the foundations for the next step in the evolution of merchandising,” he explains. “Everyday teens are building their own audiences of fans - in some cases in the millions - on sites like YouTube, and licensors are looking to maximise the opportunities that these new online stars provide.”

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Products include: • Jewellery • Hair accessories • Fluffy Unicorn • Father’s Day • Gifts & Wristbands

Sales Enquiries salesteam@iconlive.com Tel: 01444 240000

Licensing Warren Traeger warren.traeger@iconlive.com

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An agreed read BLUE-ZOO PRODUCTIONS 020 7434 4111 www.blue-zoo.co.uk Alphablocks is the hit CBeebies TV show that’s helping hundreds of thousands of children learn to read.

Alphablocks is a discovery-based starter phonics system, based on best-practice phonics teaching and structured around the Key Stage 1 curriculum. There are 26 x 3 minute episodes, and 65 x 5 minute episodes broadcast on CBeebies. Who better to show you how words work than the alphabet brought to life? The Alphablocks are 26 living letters who discover that whenever they hold hands and make a word, something magical happens.

Alphablocks is made by leading reading experts and based on best-practice phonics as taught in schools. The five colour-coded stages make it simple to find your child’s level and the episodes & activities that match.

Pearson education produces 30 phonically de-codable books, which they sell into schools. Immediate Media launched the Alphablocks Reading Programme in August 2014. The programme starts with the first steps in phonics as taught in schools and allows children to move through the levels at their own pace. The magazines and resources introduce the 26 letters and their sounds, then letter teams and much more, which allow parents to feel confident in helping children get started on the exciting journey into reading. With sticker pages, stories, puzzles, drawing, things to make and games to play, the magazine breaks reading down into achievable, age-appropriate steps, helping to familiarise children with the 26 sounds of the alphabet. Abbey Home Media has released five DVDs which complete the curriculum and is sold either separately or in a box set. Ravensburger launched an Alphablocks 24 piece Giant Floor puzzle in December 2014. Alphablocks are now working together with Mookie and Seebo on an amazing connected toy that they believe will make learning to read more fun and help busy parents teach critical reading and spelling skills. Egmont will be launching a series of story and activity books in June 2015.

Alphablocks launched it’s first app, ‘Meet the Alphablocks’ on the iTunes store in Dec 2014 with another three due to be released in 2015.

Party on!

AMSCAN 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk Leading party, balloon and fancy dress company Amscan have extended their dress-up collection to include some exciting new licensed Barbie costumes for 2015.

Flying into the range is the wonderfully pink superhero costume; Barbie Power Princess!

This vibrant outfit is available in classic and value versions to suit different consumer budgets, and is inspired by the 30th Barbie DVD “Barbie in Princess Power” to be released in March.

Also new to the collection to look out for are the beautiful princess and ballerina dresses. Amscan have also launched a new range for fans of the ultimate hero next door…

Fireman Sam which is available in February for the UK market.

Based on the popular TV show surrounding the key theme of fire and rescue; the 14 piece ensemble includes tableware, decorations and party favours and is complemented by two new foil balloons that will be available later this year.

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A comic fan’s dream SCHLEICH 01279 870000 www.schleich-s.com Schleich promises a journey into the realms of fantasy with a brand new DC Comics collection, mystical Dragons and the launch of a mini dinosaurs series adding to the classic world that the brand is famous for. It’s time for the Justice League as the Heroes of DC Comics, not to mention their archenemies, make their way to the Schleich collection! There will be much for comic book fans to get excited about, opening up a whole new whole new audience and sales opportunity for the company and its retail partners. Both aficionados and new collectors will be able to find Batman vs. The Joker, Superman vs.

Darkside, plus the Flash and Green Lantern. As a series, these figures can make up a standalone display for a specialist retailer or can integrate into any store’s Schleich shelf-space and will make great impulse buys.

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© SEGA

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CHARACTER LICENSING

Hear the Sonic boom!

SEGA EUROPE 02089953399 www.sega.com For more than two decades Sonic the Hedgehog has been one of the world’s biggest gaming icons, with over 70 video game titles, four animated TV series, and an extensive global merchandising line to his name. There is now a new branch to the Sonic universe, entitled Sonic Boom, that will debut a new look for Sonic and friends.

Sonic is a true global phenomenon with over 140 million video games sold or downloaded worldwide. Sonic Boom is the first-ever CG animated television series and is set to launch on screens across Europe in Autumn. There will also be a new master toy line from international toy manufacturer TOMY. The brand’s recognition and popularity means TOMY’s extensive toy range will appeal to a massive existing fan base, plus a new growing audience who will be engaged by the new TV series and further instalments in the Sonic Boom franchise.

Emphasis will be placed on recreating the interaction between core characters as well as introducing new characters.

Set to launch in 2015, the toy range will introduce the new look Sonic Boom, with toys that demonstrate the real essence of Sonic: speed, action and comedic characteristics. The range features items across best-selling categories including plush, action figures, role play, pocket money toys, vehicles and more, including a 12-inch talking plush and a Sonic Boom Launcher.

Be a Disney baby CHICCO 01623750870 www.chicco.co.uk Chicco is thrilled to announce a brand new partnership with Disney for 2015.

Walt Disney joins Chicco with two of its most appreciated and sold properties: Disney Baby and Disney Princess. Both licences will have great focus from Disney in the following years thanks to ongoing airings and new movies.

This long-lasting partnership will cover an infant segment that is new for Disney Princess, complemented with Chicco’s knowledge and expertise in baby care.

The range will start with toys for 6 month to 12-month-old babies, including lovely new toys such as a Snow White mirror, a Cinderella highchair toy, a Cinderella spinner and an electronic Snow White Cottage. All of the new toys have been lovingly created and designed in collaboration with Osservatorio Chicco, Chicco’s official Baby Research Centre. Babies will be able to use the Disney Princess range to assist development of early tactile and coordination skills.

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CREATE A WORLD OF YOUR OWN Worlds Apart 0845 6022119 www.worldsapart.com For 2015, Worlds Apart will continue to build on its range of hot licences, which will include Disney’s Frozen, Minions and Star Wars, which both coincide with the film releases.

Worlds Apart’s license portfolio offers the strong product mix of hot new licenses, and evergreens, whilst ensuring all products have added functionality to offer longevity.

Worlds Apart’s new dynamic active play brand, GetGo, is harnessing a considerable amount of new patent work with Ugo Play Tent, and its innovative twist up and away system, which from the outset was designed to work for both character and own-brand options. This range will include popular licenses such Disney’s Frozen, Disney Princess and Cars 2. In addition to the above, new products for 2015 will include ReadyRoom Minions Flocked Chair and Flip Out Sofa, and a new GoGlow character line will also be introduced.

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DreamWorks Home, How to Train Your Dragon 2, and Kung Fu Panda © 2014 DreamWorks Animation LLC. Where’s Waldo? © 2014 Classic Media Distribution Limited. Postman Pat © 2014 Woodland Animations Ltd. Original writer John Cunliffe. Lic. RMG Plc. All Rights Reserved.

show your character

For more information on the wide range of products being developed for all these great properties, and more, contact: adam.reed@dreamworks.com | www.dreamworksanimation.com

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YOUR FAVOURITE READ! Redan Publishing 01743 364433 www.redan.co.uk 2015 looks likely to be another busy year for top children’s magazine publisher Redan. With their top three magazines dominating the pre-school sector, the team at Redan are always on the look-out for the next big licence.

The ever popular Peppa Pig, whose two titles (Fun To Learn Peppa Pig and Fun To Learn Peppa Pig Bag-OFun) take first and second place in the pre-school chart, is proving to be a perennial winner for the publisher, who are constantly striving to offer new and innovative content in terms of editorial and covermounts. Redan work closely with licensor Entertainment One, to ensure that all brand themes and messaging is blended seamlessly into the magazines.

Redan also publish the UK’s most successful pre-school multi-character magazine Fun to Learn Friends and they are constantly looking for hot new properties to showcase in this and their other compilation titles Fun to Learn Favourites and best-selling primary girls title Sparkle World. 2015 sees several new licences appearing in these titles with new faces Boj and Paw Patrol making their magazine debuts alongside re-launched family favourites like The Clangers. Sparkle World also sees several new members joining its cast list with Barbie set to make a star appearance and Dora and Friends moving into the primary girls’ market.

Redan Publishing’s multi award winning Fun To Learn format, is well recognised as delivering top quality, educational content and the most popular characters around. With a combined monthly readership of 250,000, their ever popular multi-character titles can offer unrivalled exposure, continuing to introduce children to exciting new characters and any that prove popular in these compilation titles, can often find themselves as a best-selling stand-alone magazine.

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Have some real character CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com In the world of pre-school licensing Character Options is the place to find the most comprehensive collections available that come complete with all the marketing support required to ensure their success in the retail space. In the world of Peppa Pig, spring sees Peppa and her family take a break with her stunning Holiday theme toys, with the Holiday Jet, Camper Van Playset, Sunshine Villa and more launching in January.

Adding to this in autumn is Peppa’s delightful Once Upon a Time collection inspired by a child’s favourite fairy-tales.

Figure packs of Peppa and all her friends will come donned in fancy dress themes, such as Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella. Playsets will also be given a magical touch such as Cinders, Peppa and Coachman George with a Pumpkin Coach, and a Fairy-tale Tea Party playset. For little brother George, there’s a new adventure with his Follow Me Home Dragon that shouts instructions such as “fly left” and “go right” as he is flown through the air with George on board. Finally Peppa’s Enchanting Tower, the hero playset will be the must-have for fans. Autumn 2015 will also see the eagerly awaited introduction of the Clangers and the launch of a brand new TV series produced in the same stop-frame animation as the original of the 1970s. With it, there will be a strong demand for the little pink space mice-like creatures and Character’s toy collection will not disappoint. At the heart of the collection will be playsets that will echo scenes and features from the show such as Major Clanger and his Musical Boat and a spectacular Deluxe Clanger Planet Playset. Bound to be popular will be the collection of knitted figures including; Small the curious Clanger and Tiny the musical maestro. The essential Soup Dragon is not forgotten whilst the Iron Chicken is presented as a fun construction kit for older kids. Also for all to see at toy fair will be other favourite licensed collections such as Fireman Sam which has plenty of new adventures for new for autumn plus Scooby Doo with its return to its Mystery theme that has been so successful in previous years.

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THE COUNTDOWN IS ON CONTACT DAVE MURPHY DAVID.MURPHY@ITV.COM 0207 827 7217

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CHARACTER LICENSING

Get giggly for Boj 01273982501 www.boj.tv

Popular pre-school animation series, Boj, has seen an impressive increase in viewing figures, leading to the rescheduling of the show to the primetime slot of 5.30pm on CBeebies. In his new home, Boj has continued to make friends, achieving the rare feat of consecutive weeks as the UK’s number one most watched kids TV show. (BARB October 2014) CBeebies first aired Boj in May 2014, with a second wave of episodes released in October.

The pre-school programme about an endangered young bilby from the Australian outback burrowing up with his mum and dad (played

by Jason Donovan) into the heart of a new neighbourhood has become one of the most popular shows on the channel with audiences consistently reaching 500,000 (BARB November 2014).

Boj has a love of upcycling and is full of creativity and

fun ‘Bojaboom’ ideas.

As He plays his improvised ‘Boj-ing’ games, he solves his buddy’s problems and teaches the residents of Giggly Park how to be free-thinking, pro-active and resourceful, whilst also educating children to put aside their differences and all get along. To further engage Boj’s fan base and communicate its key brand values, Pesky Productions has also partnered with Thud Media and Box Of Frogs to release a successful range of digital games and apps based on the series.

The 5-star interactive storybooks read by Jason Donovan reached the top two in the appstore charts and have garnered two iKids nominations for the year’s best eBook.

David Hodgson, Co-Producer of Boj, said: “We are thrilled to have over half a million viewers now showing as much passion for Boj as we do.”

In Q1 of 2015, CBeebies will be airing 10 new Boj episodes and Pesky Productions is also set to release the first of five Boj DVDs through Gold Ant with a special box-set due out at Christmas as the bilby continues to encourage children and parents to get Bojing.

A real shellraising collection FLAIR 0208 643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Renowned for its licensed collections GP Flair brings out the best in favourite characters to offer stunning toy collections to fans. An important part of the portfolio is the successful Doc McStuffins collection. This year Dottie the little girl medic is turning her attention to healing toy animals. The Doc McStuffins Pet Vet series will see Dottie donning her new look paw print scrubs and introducing new pet toys to the patient list. A hero of the range will be the new Pet Vet Doc McStuffins doll whilst amongst the patient list, there’s Findo the Animatronic Puppy and Stuffy the Dragon’s furry pet, a remote control fluff ball called Squibbles. For her vet duties there will be new accessories such as the Vet Case and a Vet’s Book of Boo Boos. Finally the new Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Desk and Pet Care Centre will allow children to create their own Pet Vet clinic at home making sure all their own cuddly toy animals are kept fit and healthy. For boys, spring sees the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles enter the pre-school scene with the launch of the Half-Shell Heroes. With cuter pre-school styling, the collection will include figures, vehicles and playsets, plus an awesome Electronic Shellraiser. The heroes of the range will be the

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Super Sewer HQ, which comes with two additional figures and over 50 phrases and sound effects; and the Mega Mutant Leo, with loads of Ninja action features and moving eyes. The all-new season three TV series debuts in spring 2015 kick starting the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles year. The big news is that the Mutations range, the most successful segment in Turtles history, has been revamped for a new generation! Mix and match your Turtles heroes and villains with interchangeable arms, legs and heads; with nine characters to collect you can create your own turtley awesome character. The Turtle Brothers are also represented in the Mutations Deluxe Figures, which change from Pet Turtle to Ninja Turtle in seconds. The autumn season will get even more mutated with an amazing new playset that not only comes loaded with feature but can also be used as storage for your figures. In the classic TMNT series the action takes on mega proportions with the autumn launch of four new mega deluxe figures. These 11” IR Talking Turtles come with a sensor so they can intercommunicate and activate special interactive features.

Other licensed collection to watch out for include the new Thomas and Friends Wooden Games range, and Shopkins.

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â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top rated childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show! www.goldenbeartoys.com

For more information, contact emily@redan.com 01743 364433 www.redanalchemy.co.uk

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Thunderbirds are coming…

ITV GE 02071576163 www.itvstudios.com The highly acclaimed new boys’ action adventure series Thunderbirds Are Go is the exciting new remake of the iconic 1960s TV series, timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary this year and co-produced by ITV Studios and New Zealand’s Pukeko Pictures in association with the world famous Weta Workshop. Debuting on TV screens this spring, Thunderbirds Are Go is produced using a unique mixture of CGI animation and live-action miniatures. The first series of 26x22 minute episodes will launch in the UK on ITV and CITV, the UK’s foremost kids’ commercial TV channel.

The ground-breaking new series will bring the Thunderbirds brand to a new generation of children aged 5-11 years and to new international audiences, as well as revitalising interest in the classic TV series. To date, the new series has attracted huge interest from the brand’s existing fan base as well as the licensing market. Vivid Imaginations is the master toy partner for Europe, Australia and New Zealand, excluding US and Asia. Leading the slate at London Toy Fair 2015, Vivid’s highly anticipated toy line will be supported by one of ITV’s most extensive digitally integrated consumer marketing and retail campaigns ever. The innovative new line features the all new Tracy Island play set, in addition to a vehicle play set, detailed action figures and role play.

Further partners on board include Simon & Schuster and DC Thomson who lead the publishing category, Kokomo for personal care, Danilo for greetings, Posh Paws for accessories and MV Sports for outdoor play. The first consumer products are all set to hit UK retail for A/W 2015.

A great big hoot!

GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com With the announcement of three new character licensed offerings for 2015: Twirlywoos, Hey Duggee and Forever Friends, Golden Bear is extending its influence in the competitive preschool market and re-entering the nursery arena with innovative new products and interactive features designed to enhance play value and enrich children’s learning and development. As master toy licensee, Golden Bear’s Twirlywoos range showcases the characters Chickedy and Chick, Toodloo and GreatBigHoo from this new CBeebies series which launches spring 2015. The soft and cuddly characters feature their own signature sounds with a gentle squeeze of their tummy and come in various sizes. The pull-a-long Big Red Boat is packed full with electronic learning activities including character songs, fun sounds and moving elements to reveal hidden surprises and features. Launching onto CBeebies in January 2015, Hey Duggee features the voice of Alexander Armstrong as the lovable Squirrel Club leader, big dog Duggee. The toy line will include talking plush and collectable plush assortments with accompanying character badges. Cuddly Woof Woof Duggee Hug Toy with badge-activated sounds and phrases from the show will feature alongside the Squirrel Club Playset packed with accessories and Hey Duggee figure to encourage character-led role play. Re-entering the Nursery

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sector for 2015, the My First Forever Friends collection features beautiful softto-touch fabrics, gentle lullabies and soothing lights. The range also offers a unique and personal touch with a special baby-safe photo holder that allows personalisation and brings the brand into the hearts of all new parents. Hero items include My First Forever Friends Bedtime Lightshow, multi-sensory Sweet Dreams plush and a Musical Softie Bear. Golden Bear continues to focus on and develop its CBeebies licensed ranges including In the Night Garden, Bugbies, Woolly and Tig and Something Special into 2015 with a targeted CBeebies Land onpack promotion across its range packaging.

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Pip Ahoy! is now a toy

Who is the top trump?

JOHN ADAMS

WINNING MOVES

01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk

0207 298 9507 www.winningmoves.co.uk

John Adams is introducing some big names into its character licensed portfolio in 2015.

Having taken on its first master toy license, the company will be unveiling its Pip Ahoy! toy line at the London Toy Fair. Based on the popular pre-school TV programme featuring the voices of David Jason and Stacey Solomon, currently airing on Channel 5’s Milkshake, the range will include beautifully detailed figures, playsets, role play items and plush toys which will launch from May. The massively successful Disney’s Frozen license will be joining the company’s creative play collection with new items under the Blo Pens banner, as well as introductions into the wider craft portfolio.

This hugely popular property joins the company’s existing collection of character licenses which includes Minnie Mouse and Disney Princess, both of which will also boast new items in 2015.

Winning Moves is gearing up for some exciting new character licences joining its growing portfolio across the Top Trumps range as well as its wider games offering.

The company will be joining in with the Minions Movie mayhem with the launch of the Top Trumps Minions Tin in May. The new tin will include two packs of Minions-themed cards, all encased in a fun Minion shaped tin – a must for all Minions fans. Disney’s Frozen was the number one selling pack in the Top Trumps collection in 2014 so Elsa, Anna, Olaf and co will continue to be a priority in the Top Trumps portfolio for 2015 in the form of the new Disney’s Frozen Top Trumps Tin. After being popular in the Top Trumps category, Doctor Who Monopoly has evolved into the new Regeneration Edition and will materialise into 2015. Other games within the Winning Moves range that will be strong for 2015 are Disney Princess Guess Who and a SpongeBob Squarepants Connect 4.

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PREVIEW

CHARACTER LICENSING

A little bit of play MOOKIE

www.mookie-toys.co.uk 01525722722 Mookie Toys licensing partnerships are moving from strength to strength. One of Mookie’s most exciting partnerships for 2015 is with Sanrio with their Mr Men and Little Miss characters. Due to launch autumn 2015, the range will include the Mr Men and Little Miss Misterland House, Mr Bumps Crash and Bash Car and Little Miss Princess Carriage.

These beautifully designed playsets are packed full of features. Mr. Bumps Crash and Bash Car is a pull and release car, which includes bump blocks and a jump-up Mr. Bump figure. Little Miss Princess Carriage includes a stunning carriage with a spinning crown and opening door, to reveal Little Miss Princess inside. The Mr Men and Little Miss Misterland House has a remarkable amount of features including a bump and crash chimney, secret trapdoors, fun winch and slide as well as four play characters.

Licensed lovelies LEAPFROG

01895202840 www.leapfrog.co.uk LeapFrog offers a broad range of character licences, from Disney to Mattel, across a number of its products to positively enhance children’s learning experiences.

LeapFrog’s latest innovation, LeapTV is a new platform for licensing. LeapTV’s extensive Learning Library includes 100+ fun video games and videos. Upholding its commitment to offering the best character licenses, LeapTV’s games and videos include names such as Barbie, Team UmiZoomi, Dora the Explorer, Fireman Sam, Octonauts and My Little Pony.

Children can also enjoy a variety of fun cartridge games, including the brand new Nickelodeon PAW Patrol: Storm Rescuers game which launches in February 2015. Suitable for children ages 3-5 years, the new game puts early science learning in motion, allowing children to get active with their favourite pups as they use life science, animal knowledge, observational and classifying skills on six engaging missions. In addition, LeapFrog has partnered with Nickelodeon, Disney and Marvel to bring favourite children’s characters such as ‘Bubble Guppies’, ‘Sofia

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the First’ and ‘Spider-Man’ to LeapTV. Kids can jump into counting, shapes, number recognition, number sense and sorting in an action-packed pirate adventure with Jake and the Never Land Pirates.

Children can also play as Sofia the First using body motion control to pop bubbles and run an obstacle course to help practice phonics, the alphabet and word sounds. Children can also dive into the Bubble Guppies world, using innovative pointer play to help Molly find landmarks on a map of Big Bubble City.

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RETAIL

OPINION

Trade talk

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we speak to key wholesalers and suppliers to learn what’s on their minds. We explore this month’s hottest topics.

This month we talk to some of the industry’s finest and discover their top toy moment of 2014, which retail initiatives stood out for them, how they think the toy trade is faring at the moment and most CLIVE importantly, we look towards 2015 RICHARDSON Marketing Director, VTech

SIMON HEDGE Managing Director / CEO, GP Flair What was your top toy moment of 2014?

Launching Shopkins to the market and seeing it catch young girls’ imaginations so quickly. The demand has been incredible and we are looking forward to Season 2, which is about to go in-store.

Which retail initiatives stood out for you in 2014?

For us, it was the launch of the Turtles Movie range.

Getting all parties to work together to hit the same date across the trade was a great achievement.

How would you sum up the attitude in the toy trade at the moment?

Definitely more optimistic, but I think it would be fair to say we are aware of how things change so are not resting on our laurels.

Looking towards 2015, what top products from your range should retailers keep an eye out for?

We probably have our most “rounded range” in our history. World of Warriors and Mutant Mania are all strong new boys brands. Pet Parade is a new girl’s collectible property that satisfies many play patterns and Doc McStuffins goes from strength to strength in pre-school.

We also have a fantastically innovative creative range called “IDO3D” and our first full science range with Wild Science and a new science based range for Star Wars.

What was your top toy moment of 2014?

It’s always great to have a product place in the Dream Toys Top 12 but to have both the Kidizoom Smart Watch and the Toot Toot Safari Park listed was an outstanding moment.

Which retail initiatives stood out for you in 2014?

There have been a number of new initiatives introduced in 2014 by retailers to make the whole shopping experience faster and more convenient. It will be just a matter of time before we know which one the consumer has actually adopted. VTech’s initiative to enter the nurturing doll category was very successful and paved the way for more product diversity in 2015.

How would you sum up the attitude in the toy trade at the moment?

The market is set to be up by 5% and the toy trade is looking at how to continue that growth in 2015. The reaction at VTech previews has been very positive, especially as we have a lot of innovative products being introduced in 2015. VTech is also entering new categories in the New Year for the first time. Within the whole industry there is an excitement to see what the New Year has to offer.

Looking towards 2015, what top products from your range should retailers keep an eye out for?

In electronic learning we will be introducing a couple of big new products that will be on display for the first time at London Toy Fair, as well as a brand new girls collectible called Flipsies. Wearable technology is going to be a trend that continues into 2015, so watch this space.

Have you got the best partner?

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Our flexible and proactive service optimises costs for our clients and we deliver a pain free peak year after year.

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GUY ORR Director, Mookie Toys What was your top toy moment of 2014?

Achieving record Swingball sales and getting the brand back to where it deserves to be.

Which retail initiatives stood out for you in 2014?

II’m was impressed with Smyths and The Entertainer’s drive and commitment to the toy industry. It is their TV led marketing and an amazing in-store team who know their products inside-out, respectively.

Looking towards 2015, what top products from your range should retailers keep an eye out for?

2015 is set to be a big year for Mookie with a lot of new launches. Our biggest launch is the Toys Alive range as we enter the Youth Electronics market for the first time. The flagship product within the Toys Alive range is Pebli Town, a multi-sensory connected toy that allows children to play with real toys in a virtual world through the use of an interactive board that connects to your tablet. There is also set to be expansion packs; Pebli Safari, Pebli Garage and a top license.

JERRY HEALY Marketing Director, Character Options What was your top toy moment of 2014?

My personal highlight was right at the start of the year when Teksta won Toy of the Year at 2014s Toy Fair. It was a great start to the year and although Character has experienced lots of successful stories since, this was an unbeatable start.

Which retail initiatives stood out for you in 2014?

Amongst the many retailer initiatives we instigated was the number of FSDU’s created to enhance display. This included the ChillFactor brand which had a large amount allocated to toy retailers up and down the country. Not only did they look great, but they drove sales which is good news for everyone.

How would you sum up the attitude in the toy trade at the moment?

It appears quite positive at present. Most people in the toy industry would agree and say it has been a strong Christmas season and many would expect into 2015 this to continue co

What is your top tip for surviving all of the toy fairs?

You will need to come to the Mookie stand for a special espresso, popcorn, shakes and a hyperactive marketing team for entertainment!

Looking towards 2015, what top Loo products from your range should pro retailers keep an eye out for? reta Retailers who have visited our 2015 Ret previews have seen that we have pre had ha a great deal of development within lots of our key brands such w as Peppa Pig, Fireman Sam and Scooby Doo. But as they would Sc expect, Character also has some ex great new opportunities such as gr Clangers and Yummie Nummies to Cla mention just a few. ment

JUDITH DAYUS Director, Great Gizmos What was your top toy moment of 2014?

It would have to be our 4M Tin Can Cable Car winning a Best New Toy Award at Toy Fair 2014.

How would you sum up the attitude in the toy trade at the moment?

It seems very buoyant at the moment. Everyone seems very positive and it feels like the industry has turned a corner.

Looking towards 2015, what top products from your range should retailers keep an eye out for?

Fab new items from 4M such as Tubee, Mecho and other new Kidz Labz ranges. Also new collections from Kid O, Meadow Kids and Plan plus some new out of this world rockets from Geospace and a cute backpack from NICI. What is your top tip for surviving all of the toy fairs?

Comfy shoes!

And a kettle in the back office!

JANUARY 2015

DOMINIC GEDDES Country Manager, Mattel What was your top toy moment of 2014?

That would have to be the unprecedented demand for Frozen.

Which retail initiatives stood out for you in 2014?

The amazing reaction to BOOMco at the mall tours!

How would you sum up the attitude in the toy trade at the moment?

Very positive... +5% year-on-year!

Looking toward 2015, what top products from your range should retailers keep an eye out for?

Barbie has a great spring movie called Princess Power. Also watch out for Ami Gami which is Mattel’s entry into the craft category and a celebratory year for Thomas & Friends!

What is your top tip for surviving all of the toy fairs?

Don’t take Ken Black out until the last night!

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FEATURE RIDE-ONS

Wheel appeal!

A strong year has given the ride-on category a good platform for 2015. TnP found out from ory s stalwarts some of the category’s

T

he ride-ons category iss rolling into 2015 with momentum, ntum, following a strong 2014 4 performance. Boasting bikes,, trikes, scooters, skateboards and more, the category covers a lot of ground und in terms of styles and price points. nts. This variety has made it a winner with consumers, and with an average age price of just £42.41 (NPD, YTD D Nov 2014), it is affordable too.

By all accounts, 2014 was a strong year for suppliers off ride-ons and wheeled toys.

The launch of the Razor Crazy zy Kart saw Re:creation off to a strong start in January, leading ng to a “phenomenal” year, according to Katy Fletcher, Brand Manager – Outdoor.

“As well as capitalising on the e buzz around this launch, our ‘Electrify your Ride’ 360 marketing campaign delivered over and above expectations… Strong marketing and innovative product have driven momentum throughout the year.”

Balance bike specialist Kiddimoto has a positive year too, and Simon Booth, Founder and Managing Director, attributes some of this to the renaissance in the adult cycle market. “Parents are keen to get their families out on bike rides and we’re continuing to see younger children on two

wheels, perfect for our balance pe bikes as kids can ride them from 18 k months.”

Ride-ons Ride-on represented sales of £44.3m between January and be November Novembe in 2014, according to NPD (YTD Nov 2014). And with a good year in the bank, manufacturers and suppliers supplie are busy working on new product to keep this up. p “Kiddimoto was born out “K of my m passion for bikes, so we never sit still for long and we’re we always striving for the next ne exciting piece of NPD,” says Simon. s Innovative new product also remains at the core a of Re:creation’s future plans, Re but Katy Ka says that investment Prince in marketing is as important mar Lionheart in ensuring products stand out.

“Exciting and compelling marketing amplifies any message and reaches out to new audiences,” Parents are she explains. “It’s critical to even keener to understand the audience and what motivates them – whether get their it be the latest social media trend families out on or a hot new celebrity. We make it our business to be on top of bike rides and this.” we’re Katy says this investment in continuing to building the brand is a critical see younger part of elevating the value and market position of a ride-on. and younger “Brand personality has a role to children on play; consumers often want to two wheels buy into a lifestyle idea, not just a product,” she explains. “Razor Simon Booth, is an aspirational brand, regarded Founder and as leaders and innovators in the category and ultimately a Managing quality product, whether for a Director, pre-schooler or adult. Razor has Kiddimoto a history that demonstrates a commitment to the category and that longevity of experience carries much weight with the ca consumer.” co In-store, there’s lots retailers can ca do to drum up business. With many ride-ons priced in the higher m brackets, consumers want to ensure br they th make the right choice; they want to see the product up close w and a even let children try before they buy. This, Simon says, is where t intelligent displays can make the in

“

Kiddimoto

”

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difference.

“It’s proven that when our balance bikes are ranged on our wooden stand, they sell. As balance bikes become more popular, consumers are searching them out, so they need to be accessible. They want to put their children on them, to get a feel.

We’re looking at new fixtures for display all the time to make it easier for retailers, and to display our whole range of bikes, helmets, gloves.”

Katy agrees that bringing the product to life is important. Where possible, displaying product outside the box gives it a ‘wow’ factor, and if space is tight, the company has retailers covered. “Make the most of any chance to showcase video content of the product to inspire and excite. Where video isn’t an option look at hang tags to ensure product features speak to the consumer.”

So, what developments can we expect in 2015? Simon says Kiddimoto is focused on exciting new ranges and support for its most popular current products. “We’re over the moon to have won more awards this year for our Kurve and for our Metal Super Junior range, so we’ll be focusing on supporting these. We’ll also continue developing new ranges such as Boxkart – our fun, retro, wooden Go-Kart range, designed to bring families together for playtime,” he says.

And Katy says Re:creation is set to race off the starting grid next year: “We certainly aren’t taking our foot off the pedal in 2015; we are looking forward to seeing great results right out of the gate in spring.”

Ride-ons represented sales of £44.3m, JanNov 2014 Average Price: £42.41 NPD Group Retail Tracking service covering 75% of British toy sales – YTD Nov 2014

toysnplaythings.co.uk

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The UK’s No. 1 Electric Scooter Brand*

*Source: NPD EPoS sales Jan-Nov 14 £ value

Tel: 0118 973 6222 I e:mail: sales@recreationltd.co.uk website: www.recreationltd.co.uk I Toy Fair Stand No: E160

FEATURE RIDE-ONS

Off tthe scale fun!

LITTLE TIKES 0800 52 521 558 www.littletikes.co.uk www.lit Launching fresh for 2015 is the Cozy Launc Coupe Dinosaur, perfect for kids aged Coup 18 months to five years. Cozy Coupe m Dinosaur is the latest fun design to D join jo the rapidly expanding Cozy Coupe family. The new coupe comes C in ‘Dinosaur Green’ and has cool dinosaur plates (spikes) on its roof.

The launch is a sign of the UK’s bestselling cars’ continued success, marking the largest range yet for Little Tikes.

Keep on rolling!

HY-PRO INTERNATIONAL 01582 670100 www.hy-pro.co.uk Hy-Pro International’s pre-school brand, Rollers, is ‘bringing pre-school wheels to the next generation,” offering products that are lightweight and effortless to control. The ride-ons in the Rollers range are designed to be a child’s first wheeled toy. The Rollers range offers an array of products, each with multiple uses, designed to adapt as a child grows. The award-winning Rollers R1 converts from a trike to a tri-scooter, the R2 converts from a balance bike to an inline scooter, and the Rollers R3 is a 3-in-1 product that can be changed from a trike to tri-scooter and then a drifter using a robust locking mechanism.

Royal ride PRINCE LIONHEART 020 8997 7054 www.princelionheart.com

Prince Lionheart’s Yetizoo is a ride-on with a secret hiding place for jungle treasures, giving kids extra manoeuvrability and comfort. The Yetizoo gives children enhanced movement, and improves their motor skils and emotional development.

The steering handlebar is constructed to ensure maximum safety. The Yetizoo is made of innovative plastic materials, providing a velvety, strong and superior feeling.

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Keep on cruisin’!

FAMOSA 07903 843241 www.famosa.es The stylish replica Range Rover Sport from Spanish outdoor toy specialist, Feber, is powered by a 12-volt motor, has forward and reverse gears, an accelerator, electric brake and two seats for ultimate cruising in style!

With a sleek grey, sport-styled body, opening and closing doors, starting and horn sounds on the dashboard, realistic alloy wheels, wing mirrors and play seatbelts, the Range Rover Sport is a dream come true for kids.

There’s even a speaker for connection to an iPod. Pretend play was never so good!

Complete with rechargeable 12V battery and charger, the Feber Range Rover Sport is licensed exclusively to Feber by Land Rover in a global deal, and is suitable from three years old.

Flying without wings FLYING GADGETS 0844 209 2626 www.flyinggadgets.com Flying Gadgets is a go-to manufacturer of licensed ride-on vehicles in the UK. Flying Gadgets is home to big names to suit all budgets, including BMW, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Volkswagen, Range Rover, Mercedes and Bentley. The portfolio of twenty licenses will increase by another five in 2015 and Flying Gadgets is also excited to unveil more 12v two-seat ride-ons this year, enabling two children to ride in the same vehicle. What’s more, a new BMW Motorbike is being added to the range in Q1, along with a Mercedes G55 Ride-On Jeep and a white Bentley Continental Ride-On. With FOB capabilities, customers are able to really compete on margins by ordering entire containers of ride-ons direct from the Flying Gadgets factory in China. These can contain a bespoke order of mixed licensed ride-ons ons or a single order of the same product – either way, the shipment will be fully prepped and ready for retailers to arrange shipping.

Alternatively, retailers can purchase units direct from UK-held stock and, in both cases, can feel confident that all items come with the full Flying Gadgets dedicated customer support. There is even a full bank of spare parts for all vehicles.

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award winning designs from Kiddimoto, the british balance bike company Meet our stylish NEW arrivals!

NEW! Kiddimoto Kurve Iakbbp WdZ 8kjj[hĂ&#x2019;_[i Adjustable seat, pneumatic tyres and matching accessories!

RRP ÂŁ59.99

NEW! Metal Super Junior Max Lightweight frame, pneumatic tyres and brake!

NEW!

WINNER OF BEST RIDE-ON 2014!

Boxkart Wooden Go-karts Adjustable frame, working handbrake and in 3 stylish designs!

Come & say hello at Toyfair - stand H44!

See our full range at www.kiddimoto.co.uk or call us on 01749 871175 for more info.

Eco drive

FEATURE RIDE-ONS

GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk

On the leading edge!

RE:CREATION 01189 736222 www.recreationltd.co.uk 2014 was a high octane year for Re:creation’s Razor brand, with the introduction of the Crazy Cart electric ride-on and the stellar performance of the E100 electric scooter. The company powers into 2015 with new introductions and marketing campaigns. The momentum behind the Razor brand will continue to build with the launch of Crazy Cart’s little brother, the Lil’ Crazy. Perfect for pre-schoolers, this electric ride-on means tots can reach speeds of up to 2mph while enjoying drifting fun.

Then there’s the much-anticipated Crazy Cart XL, which is already putting in an impressive performance in the US and is set for our shores in 2015.

Razor’s electric scooter expertise has been recognised with ever-increasing consumer demand and in the final quarter the popular E100 achieved an unprecedented 13th position in Total Toys by value (NPD, Oct 2014).

Re:creation continues its commitment to TV with the first spring TV campaign dedicated to electric scooters.

Razor’s wide portfolio of best-in-class and high performance scooters will find themselves centre-stage throughout 2015 with the launch of a dedicated 360-degree marketing programme. Hero products include the Beast stunt scooter and the S Sport range.

A RIDE-ON FANTASY CREATURE

FROM A FAR AWAY LAND YETIZOO

YETIZOO HIPPO

YETIZOO ELEPHANT

7640 | 7641 | 7642

7630 | 7631 | 7632

Ride-ons are perfect for traditional outdoor play and Great Gizmos’ latest models allow little ones to zoom about!

Suitable for babies’ first-time ride, the Plan Toys Bio Scoot features four caster wheels, handle grip and storage compartment for toys, so tots can ride and turn on their own with ease. The Ride On Pony has a horse’s head and moveable eyes and the Fire Engine is beautifully decorated, including a driver, ladder and hose for a realistic touch.

For traditionall outdoor travel for older kids, the Classic Pedal Car ar has a new powder pink colour lour that is ideal for girls and nd is made from the same strong steel as other vehicles ehicles in the collection. The range expands further with models such as the Ride On Aeroplane, ane, Rocket and Retro ro Racers in green and red.

Driving licence!

MV SPORTS 0121 748 8000 www.mvsports.co.uk MV Sports posted impressive sector-busting growth in ride-on toys in 2014, thanks to a great line-up of licensed, branded and own label solutions. And with advance orders on the doorstep, 2015 looks to be successful too. The company’s ride-on range is packed with new models, innovative designs and award-winning products. MV Sports’ recent acquisition of the Disney Princess and Disney Cars licences has allowed an exciting new ride-on phenomenon to enter the UK, the Tilt’n’Turn Electric Ride-on. There’s been a great response and MV expect this to be a hero line for 2015.

The pre-school girl’s ride-ons are accompanied by the evergreen licence Peppa Pig. This delightful range is complemented perfectly by girly pink and purple colourways across all 3 ride-ons: My First Ride-On, 6V Battery powered buggy and the revolutionary 6V Ride-on Bike with side-car.

MV’s pioneering pre-school classic Thomas the Tank Engine, continues to dominate the market with a range of ride-ons, including the popular 3-in-1 Scooter, Ride On & Trailer. Converting easily from one mode to another, it allows imaginative play combined with MV’s dependable quality and durability. In addition to Thomas there’s also Fireman Sam with two red hot ride-ons.

For older boys, Batman is still flying high with the 6V Battery powered Bat Bike Ride-On and the 6V battery powered Batmobile.

E-Moto leads the own-brand ride-on range with selection of marvelous mini-freeways and electric scooters that come in bright, vivid colourways to speed in style and a deluxe-edition with optional seat.

LEARN MORE / RIDE WITH US: PRINCELIONHEART.COM

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toysnplaythings.

Learn… Grow… Go! Steer your sales with our Trikes range Our 4-in-1 trikes are: UÊÊ ià } i`ÊÌ Ê`iÛi « physical, balancing, and steering skills.

UÊÊ `>«ÌÃÊvÀ Ê>Ê parent guided ÃÌÀ iÀÊÌ Ê v> ÌÊ powered trike.

ge of styles n a r l l u f C h o o s e f ro m o u r

t gh i e w ia n y av ed paig e H Mm Ca

Visit www.littletikes.co.uk to find out more Call us: 0845 0533 333 | Email us: Little.Tikes@zapf-creation.co.uk MGA Entertainment UK Ltd, 50 Presley Way, Crownhill, Milton Keynes, MK8 0ES

FEATURE

Easy as 1, 2, 3

RIDE-ONS

CHICCO

Ride the Kurve KIDDIMOTO 01749 871 175 www.kiddimoto.co.uk With no stabilisers ers or pedals, Kiddimoto’s oto’s balance bikes teach kids aged 2–6 to balance and steer.

Products include the bestselling wooden Kurve, which has classic curved frames and beautiful designs. The latest designs include girly butterflies and a skullz patterned one. Complementary helmets and gloves complete the look. Recently introduced, the award-winning Super Junior range of metal balance bikes boast a lightweight metal frame (4.1kg) and a super grippy footplate. The Super Junior has puncture resistant tyres, plastic wheel hub and spokes and a steering limiter. The Super Junior Max comes with pneumatic tyres, metal wheel hub and spokes, V-brake and a carry handle on the adjustable padded seat. The first range developed by Kiddimoto was the Hero’s GP replica balance bikes, celebrating champions of the past 50 years and includes designs styled on the icons of the Superbike racing world. The brand has the licence for over 10 Superbike legends; the latest is the Marc Marquez balance bike, which features the Marquez trademark Ant, his signature signatu and BoxKart lucky number 93. Kiddimoto’s latest creation Bo brings the traditional racing kart up-to-date in a striped new slick black or blue and orange strip handbrake colourway, an adjustable frame, hand ride. and pneumatic tyres for a smooth ri designed These retro wooden go karts are de whole family to bring the together tog and an will be a musthave ha for children in ch Summer Su 2015.

2015

01623750870 www.chicco.co.uk The new Activity Station 1, 2, 3 from Chicco is a clever multifunctional activity centre that challenges babies at each stage of development. Its 3-in-1 function allows it to transform easily from a baby walker to a push along to a ride-on. As a baby walker, it’s suitable from six months, with a cocooning seat for younger babies. The removable, electronic toy panel features lights, sounds and manual activities to entertain and engage with little ones. For nine-month-old babies, it can be transformed into first steps mode and used as a push along. At 18 months, toddlers can use the Activity Station 1,2,3 in bicycle mode. The ergonomically designed seat can be stored in the front compartment when not in use. The seven safety brakes also ensure a secure ride by stopping the movement of it when they reach a step. The height and handles are adjustable to two positions offering a comfortable ride. It can also be personalised by downloading the bright, funny letters from the Chicco website, and comes in bright colours.

Little Red Rider’s good!

MARBEL 0845 6000 286 www.marbel.co.uk Marbel has two ride-ons, from Hape and BRIO. BRIO’s iconic Dachshund from the 1950s is now a ride-on toy. The playful tail wags along happily as the ride-on moves forward.

Hape toys has two ride-ons.

Four-wheel drive takes on new meaning with the Scoot Around foot-powered rider that comes with a sturdy wooden frame and plastic wheels in a green theme. The Hape Little Red Rider is a walker and a ride-on, providing a sturdy base for pulling up, and a unique design that makes pushing a breeze.

Three-wheeling fun MOOKIE www.mookie-toys.co.uk 01525 722722 For spring 2015, Mookie will introduce a fun new range of ScuttleBug and ScrambleBug characters and designs, and more retailfriendly packaging; the packaging will now be an open box allowing the consumer to see and feel the product.

The number three item and number four property in non-powered ride ons YTD*, ScuttleBug is a unique ride-on with three wheels for added stability and is ideal for toddlers aged 1+. As well as being fun, bright and funky, it has front wheel steering for greater manoeuvrability. Ideal for toddlers, it helps children develop balance and steering.

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ScrambleBug, now the number eleven non-powered ride on item YTD*, is a unique foot-to-floor ride-on that moves in all directions as all four wheels have 360 degree movement. Backwards, forwards and sideways, children will love the Scramble Bug’s easy to use steering and manoeuvrability. It’s ideal for indoor as well as outdoor fun.

Both ScuttleBug and ScrambleBug have a simple click folding system, making them portable and easy to store. *NPD, YTD, Sept 2014

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TNP

AMBASSADORS

My favourite thing This month our dedicated TnP Ambassadors got to grips with Cartamundi’s Monopoly Deal Shuffle and Epoch making toys Sylvanian Families Cosy Cottage and Bluebell Seven Seater car. Find out how they got on

Playing happy families Six-year-old Poppy was our chosen toy tester for Epoch making toys’ Sylvanian Families Cosy Cottage Starter Home and Bluebell Seven Seater car. It was such a hit in her house that her little brother Herbie got in on the action too! Mum Claire tell us all about it...

To say Poppy loved Sylvanian Families is an understatement. The biggest surprise for us was that her little brother Herbie took to the set too, we thought he might be on the young side but no, he absolutely loved it.

So much so that we found him playing with Sylvanian Families the

Wheeling and dealing on-the-go Gabe, 9, played Cartamundi’s Monopoly Deal Shuffle with his mum Kate – and luckily for us, the family love a good game of Monopoly, so this was right up their street!

Gabe and I are Monopoly board game addicts – we have various

WHAT THE KIDS SAY! GABE’S FAVOURITE TOYS Match Attax Football Cards GABE’S MOST WANTED LEGO Minecraft GABE’S FAVOURITE FILM The LEGO Movie

JANUARY 2015

morning after we had opened the toys!

Playing together, Poppy and Herbie made up a story about moving to a new house, which involved them taking the suitcases from the car into the house and the story continued with Poppy loading the car up and driving to the park to enjoy a family picnic and BBQ! After the picnic they drove back to the house and the story ended with the family be tucked up in bed.

Poppy really enjoyed the whole role-play element to Sylvanian Families and would like more sets for Christmas while Herbie loved driving the car and dressing the house. Safe to say this was a hit.

board game versions we play on a weekly basis - so we were both delighted to discover the mini and mobile card game version. Gabe was thrilled because it meant we could play Monopoly at every opportunity – holidays, day trips, dinner out – and I was thrilled because it doesn’t have to take three hours to play.

And that is the genius of this putin-the-pocket pack of cards – it has all the thrills and spills of Monopoly, as well as all the learning benefits (maths, listening, strategy, decision making, trading, negotiation, risk versus reward) but you can blast it out in just 20 minutes.

Based on the property investment principles of the traditional Monopoly board game, this card version is like a normal card game – you pick up cards, you play them – but with the competitive edge of Monopoly.

You can play them directly (if you pick them up), steal them from other players (using Action cards or Wild cards), or collect them as

WHAT THE KIDS SAY!

POPPY’S MOST WANTED : Little Live Pets –Character Options POPPY’S FAVOURITE FILM: Harry Potter and Star Wars POPPY’S FAVOURITE TV PROGRAMME: Barbie Dream House HERBIE’S FAVOURITE TOY: Wood train track and cars Brio HERBIE’S MOST WANTED: Tractor but he also wants a baby!

HERBIE’S FAVOURITE FILM: Hop HERBIE’S FAVOURITE TV PROGRAMME: Boj

rent for other properties they already own. Smart tactics and the art of negotiation, as well as counting skills are as important in this quick version as in the real deal.

That’s not the fun bit, though.

The fun bit, according to Gabe, is the playing of the Action cards and Wild cards. These cards, which represent Forced Deals and even Deal Breakers, can completely turn the game around and certainly kept him totally focused and excited.

The one headache for us was shuffling the 110-strong card deck – Gabe’s little hands just couldn’t get to grips with it. Cartamundi has come up card trumps though with a little gadget called the Monopoly Deal Shuffle Shaker, which out-shuffles the human hand. Genius. We also appreciated the Reminder Rule cards in the pack, which helped us remember some of the steps we had to take along the way.

The cards are a really easy way of getting your Monopoly fix – it’s fast and portablel yet with the same excitement and challenge of the board game.

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FEATURE TIA

To America and beyond As we approach the North American Toy Fair, TnP sat down with Marian Bossard, Senior Vice President of Global Market Events, Toy Industry Association to find out just why the fair is a must-attend event for everyone looking to break the illusive American market Tell us a little bit about your career background, journey into the TIA, and what your current role entails.

I was lucky enough to join the U.S. Toy Industry Association (TIA) in the summer of 1999. My path was not a direct one. After deciding against archaeologist, circus clown and nutritionist, I decided during my junior year of college that what I loved most of all was world travel, Marian Bossard meeting new people and finding myself somewhat lost in a country where What: I knew nobody North American and didn’t speak International Toy Fair the language.

Upon graduation When: I went to work Saturday 14 - Tuesday 17 for Delta Air February Lines in Sales & Customer Where: Service and Jacob K. Javits Convention there I stayed for Centre, New York City 16 years until I decided that it Website: was time for a www.toyfairny.com new and yet

212

unidentified challenge. I landed a job with a company that designed and fabricated trade show exhibits.

After two years, I was hired by a trade magazine publisher and show organizer, Miller Freeman, in event operations. There I stayed for three years until one fateful day when a friend told me that Toy Fair, owned and operated by TIA in New York City, had an opening and I should call. I did and the rest is history. I just celebrated my 15th anniversary in a job that I love for an industry that amazes me every day.

The American International Toy Fair has re-branded as the North American International Toy Fair, and will incorporate the Canadian Toy Fair for the first time next year. What was the impetus for this?

We are thrilled to welcome in a more significant way our friends, neighbors and business partners from Canada. With so much in common it’s important to remember that we are two unique markets with individual needs and interests. As a unified marketplace we hope to bring new opportunities to our US-based companies

MARIAN SAYS… “ As an importer or distributor, we will do all we can to help you find the right business partners. Our Export-Ready Guide, available onsite, will help you to pinpoint exhibitors interested in doing business in your region.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

What should visitors to the 2015 North American International Toy Fair keep their eyes open for?

1) Begin with spending all four days at the show.

You came all this way; take your time!

2) Make sure you have an understanding of what your local customer back home is demanding and start your search in those product zones on the floor. We have 13 unique categories (including outdoor, arts and crafts, modern design, and tech) in addition to general toys.

3) While the global brands are well-represented throughout the show, our Level 1 companies are often the newest to the industry. This area is always fertile ground for out-of-the-blue finds.

4) Reach out to TIA if you have a specific need or interest. It’s a big, busy show. It’s a big, busy city. We are not too big or too busy to help you.

seeking broader distribution in Canada and conversely, we Forecasts will support Canadian companies looking for a for the US toy bigger slice of the market are American pie. Both positive, with organisations will assist each other in celebrating industry analysts the differences and predicting that capitalising on the parents will be commonalities.

“

Are the US and Canadian markets fairly similar?

What, if any, are the major differences?

Both the US and Canadian toy markets faced similar challenges over the past few years (such as weakening economies,

more willing to invest in highquality toys as the economy continues to improve

”

competition from smartphones and tablets, and stagnant birth rates).

Forecasts for the US toy market are positive, with industry analysts predicting that parents will be more willing to invest in highquality toys as the economy continues to improve. The Canadian market will see some improvements as well, but the country has its own unique set of challenges, including the entry of a growing number of foreign retailers that are not growing quickly enough to fill the void left behind by the Canadian retailers they have replaced.

And in what ways are they comparable with, or different to, the UK and European toy markets?

The popularity of licensed toys and games, the continued growth of online retail, and improved consumer confidence as a result of recovering economies are having a positive impact across the US, Canadian and European toy markets.

What unique things does the North American International Toy Fair offer overseas visitors that they won’t necessarily get from their own domestic shows?

Toy Fair showcases hundreds of thousands of playthings from around the world with some products out of North America not shown at any other global toy event.

JANUARY 2015

If you don’t attend New York Toy Fair, you will simply miss out on the opportunity to see all of these innovative playthings.

On top of that, our international trade media delegations have told us repeatedly that at New York Toy Fair there is a genuine playfulness to the display and demonstration of the toys and games. You see and feel the passion of the exhibitor for bringing joy to children of all ages.

We are keenly aware of the challenges of being an international guest.

As an importer or distributor, we will do all we can to help you find the right business partners. Our Export-Ready Guide, available onsite, will help you to pinpoint exhibitors interested in doing business in your region.

And no other toy event in the world provides instant access to ShopToyFair365.com, our yearround online marketplace.

Before, during and after Toy Fair, buyers can use this groundbreaking tool to discover exhibitor offerings, connect with suppliers, and even order products.

And what can UK visitors specifically stand to gain by making the trip?

TIA works closely with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), a UK initiative that provides an international network of opportunities for UK companies looking to export product.

You have a partner on the ground here in New York who together with TIA has your business interests at heart.

213

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If you want to reach 5,130* total average net circulation, then call Ryan Horwood on 01442 289945 or email ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk *. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 2013 to 30th June 2014

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LOOK BACK 2014

WITH MALCOLM NAISH

The Year That Was... 2014 TnP founder and MD Malcom Naish takes a look back at 2014

JANUARY We all look forward to Toy Fair where Graham Brennan brings EPOCH to the U.K. market as their U.K. MD with leading toy product Sylvanian Families, previously distributed by Flair.

I am sad to note that Stephen Hughes has passed away at the age of 93. He was one of the trade’s true gentlemen and very involved with the Toy Retailers Association for many years. His toy store was based in Devizes and we had many discussions over the years as to the state of the Independent trade.

Two of my good friends celebrate 20 years with VTech, none other than Andrew Barrett and Graham Canning. (Love the jumper Andrew).

Our Official Daily Paper for the show is a healthy 54 pages that sees 10 of our editorial team burning the midnight oil to ensure the paper was distributed first thing at 7.30 a.m. on all the stands and from the front of the hall on opening hour.

Toy of the Year sees the Character Group win the ‘Big One’ – with Teksta who certainly was Top Dog and you don’t even have to clean up after him!

It was great to see Simon Pilkington’s John Adams Toys win ‘Game of the Year’ for the second year in succession with ‘Gooey Louie’ and to prove it isn’t just the big guys who win these major awards as the Collectable Toy of the Year went to Robo Fish from Zuru.

Very impressive, the BTHA celebrate their 70th anniversary.

Started in 1945 to help British manufacturers to build their businesses, they are a major force for good within our industry and even stronger now than ever before.

MGA return to Toy Fair and as their M.D. Andrew Laughton says: “It feels great to be back at the show.”

JANUARY 2015

February By the time the February draws to a close, we have attended shows in Hong Kong, London, Nuremberg, the NEC, Birmingham and finally New York and we all love it, despite the late nights, being forced to drink alcohol and up at the crack of dawn.

Argos decides to announce that their standard trading terms are about to be amended to include an additional 2% turnover rebate for orders placed after 1 March. To say that this received a very large raspberry would be a major understatement. This wasn’t only aimed at the toy trade, but all Argos suppliers.

LEGO fever as their movie grossed £8 million in its first weekend.

Congratulations to Character’s Joe Kissane and David Bramford who help the Fence Club raise £20,000 from their Hong Kong football match.

We remember Henry Hupfield, founder of Springwell Mouldings and Stephen Green, the latter holding top positions with Ertl and Bandai when they handled sales for their Teenage Ninja Turtles and Nintendo.

NPD tell us that Great Britain is the largest toy market in Europe. The market being worth £2.9. billion.

Learning Resources have a fab Toy Fair party in Nuremberg with a themed 20s knees-up where we all N boogie till late. b Toy State celebrate 30 years in the business announcing a big Autumn TV campaign in the U.K. a for f their ‘Road Rippers’.

R Exciting stuff.

E We interview Disney D Consumer C Products P

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Executive Vice-President Simon Phillips.

Everyone is ecstatic about Frozen and as they say in the Bible “It came to pass” as moving to the end of 2014 everything is Frozen.

We’re all beginning to get football fever in the toy trade, looking forward to big sales in the summer – IF WE HAD ONLY HAVE KNOWN! Top TV spender in February was Flair with a TV expenditure of £610,477.

MARCH March heralds several key toy men leaving their companies starting with Chris Spalding who joins HTI. Neil Bandtock leaves Vivid with Seth Bishop departing from Re:creation.

Simon Pilling also leaves the BTHA to set up his own exhibition company.

The really BIG news is that Mattel announce that they are in the process of buying Megabloks for a mere $460 million.

We highlight ‘ToyFi’ Teddy from Dave Cave’s Dragon-I company. This bluetooth enabled teddy allows kids to keep in touch with their friends by being able to send and receive personal messages using the free Toy-Fi app whether in the next room or the next continent.

Due to be TV advertised from July through to December.

Our ‘Puzzles’ feature includes NPD data that shows the top five items by value in 2013, which included three from Ravensburger and two from Jumbo. Top was Ravensburger’s ‘Big Ben 216 piece 3D puzzle.

Mattel topped the TV spending charts with a spend of £899,089 in March.

APRIL Hasbro report strong Q1 figures up 2% on like for like sales to $679.5 million. Much of this due to strong sales in the girls’ sector that includes My Little Pony and Nerf Rebelle.

The AIS show was well received, attracting a healthy attendance from their 83 members who control 208 outlets. Exhibitors were positive and Miles Penhallow was quoting a 20% increase on the year.

The Entertainer Group tell us that their charity boxes in each store raised a staggering half a million pounds for six childrens’ hospitals. Known as ‘Pennies’, the loose change amassed by donations averaged out at 29p, but as we all know “every little helps.”

Our retail interview is with Jennifer Farndell of Paultons Theme Park in Romsey, Hampshire, that is home to ‘Peppa Pig World’. A multi-million pound investment sees the opening of an 8,000sqft toy store.

We also highlight and interview founder of Green Board Games Gary Wyatt who after 23 years has a thriving business with plans for expansion.

216

MAY Toymaster celebrate their 25th anniversary in great style.

The ‘indies’ look forward to Toymaster’s May Harrogate show and strongly support it. Not only are orders placed, but it is an opportunity to find out what’s going on in the industry.

Chairman Roger Dyson awards a double ‘Golden Teddy’ award to Mandy and Nick Harrison of Brookite.

They have worked in the industry for 40 years and Roger said of them: “They are two of the nicest, most honest and most hard-working people you could wish to meet and have made their company what it is today. For me what makes them so special is for them it is people and relationships that hold the highest value.”

Hear, hear from TnP! Gary Wilmot leaves Schleich to join the Character Group .

Toy State acquire radio control company Nikko – a great addition in their 30th year.

The Toymaster annual golf day sees a lady take the top prize. Dr. Amanda Gummer with 40 Stableford points. Golf obviously runs in the blood as Amanda is the daughter of ace toy agent (retired) John Nicholas, who’s no slouch with the golf clubs and, of course, son Stu who plays off one.

Our retail interview is with John Bentley of Beales. With 30 department stores to look after it’s just as well that John has plenty of toy experience. Beales dates back to 1881 and currently has toys in 26 of their 30 stores.

Hasbro head the TV advertising charts with a £860,945 spend in May.

JUNE Frank Martin passes the BTHA chairmanship on to Phil Ratcliffe of M.V. Sports (pictured) at their AGM held once again at Great Fosters in Surrey.

Vivid and Drumond Park announce a sales, marketing and distribution deal that sees Vivid handling all of these three key functions. The trade seems to believe that this is an ideal move for both companies.

Lindsay Hardy leaves Flair Toys to join Trends U.K. as their marketing director.

The Toy Trust Isle of Wight Bike Ride raises a staggering £174,000 with 255 people taking part. Organiser Nick Austin said: “Given the appalling weather conditions at the start, this year’s Big Challenge event was a real triumph of human spirit in the face of adversity.”

Bigjigs wins a Red Ribbon award and is named as Best Small Family Business fighting off 700 nominations for the title. The Entertainer Group also won an award taking home the ‘Family Business of the Year’ award. It was also good news for The Entertainer who posted strong annual results for 2013/14 with pre-tax profits of £5.96. million – an increase of 16%.

It was great to see Nik Hallam back in the toy trade joining safety testing experts Intertek.

Our retail interview in June was with Andrea Gornall of online giant Shop Direct. Formed in 2005 by the merger of Littlewoods and Great Universal.

June top TV spend is Hasbro, spending £763,937.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

LOOK BACK 2013 WITH MALCOLM NAISH

open in the second quarter of 2015 .This will be in partnership with Entertainment Retail Enterprises.

I am gutted to announce the unexpected passing of Sue Humphrey who was PA to Brian Triptree first at Action GT, then Tyco-Matchbox and latterly The Sales Partnership. We shall all miss Sue’s lively disposition at Toy Fair.

A trilogy of Harry Potter films are announced

by Warner Bros. The first will be released in the USA on 16th November 2016. And I thought we worked well in advance! play-room/AIS announce dates for their April 2015 toy and gift show, being 14/15th April.

The Brand Licensing show is once again a mega event. We have a stand at the show and enjoy plenty of key meetings with our many advertisers across our various titles. TnP votes this show one of the very best in the annual calendar.

The retail interview this month is with Rosie Marshall of Boswells in Oxford. With over 300 years of history, Boswells first started selling toys in the early 50’s.

Rosie first started at Toys ‘R’ Us on their graduate training programme and has been at Boswells for ten years. With 3,800sq.ft. of toy space they stock all of the top brands and many more giving even more space in the weeks leading up to Christmas by using floor space from other departments. Their top three items were LEGO Star Wars, Disney’s Frozen and Minecraft.

Our Front Cover story for October highlights Chicco. M.D. Mitch Levene tells us that they have enjoyed 23 months of consecutive growth. In depth research shows an 85% increase in consumers saying they have now bought a Chicco product in addition to a 138% rise in consumers citing Chicco as a brand they trust.

We Road Test Hasbro’s Nerf Rebelle range with a fantastic spread that illustrates what a great product this is for girls. Words such as really cool, amazing, powerful and fun and super-cool describe the event.

Hasbro ramp up their October TV spend with a £3,530,646 spend.

More than double their nearest competitor.

NOVEMBER Frozen fever continues with one retailer telling us that one in three calls is for a Frozen item, quite often being Jakks Pacific’s Snow-glow Elsa doll.

Ian Dayus of Great Gizmos becomes chairman of the Fence Club for 2014/15. He is pictured receiving his chairman’s chain of office from outgoing chairman Phil Green.

The ‘Dream Toys’ PR event unveils their Top 12 toys for this Christmas and enjoys excellent TV and consumer press publicity.

I enjoy the annual Hong Kong Trade Development dinner at The Dorchester. The great and the good were there to celebrate Britain’s fantastic links with our former

218

Crown Colony. This was its 31st year illustrating the strong links between our two countries. Our pic shows Minster of State & Investment Lord Livingstone of Parkhead, Financial Secretary John Tsang and HKTDC chairman Jack So. NPD release figures that show toy sales were up 6% on this time in 2013, a sure sign the economy is improving.

NPD also believe that toy sales this Christmas will be up meaning that annual sales will be over £3 billion, an increase of £166 million in one year.

Disney announce that there will be a fourth ‘Toy Story’ film that will hit screens in 2017.

It’s a sell out. Olympia Toy Fair is full with 260 exhibitors.

To the Manor Born. Our retail interview in November is with Louise Pearson of Drayton Manor Theme Park. It’s home to Thomas the Tank Engine and is owned by the Bryan family being first established back in 1950 when George and Vera Bryan converted 80 acres of derelict land into a family attraction. There are eight stores across the park with some really scary rides. It includes a 150 room 4 star hotel as well as a 15 acre zoo.

Whilst Thomas products form a major part of their offering, they also stock plenty of other wellknown toy brands.

Have Vivid discovered a major breakthrough in car racing sets? Their new Real FX gives drivers a most realistic driving experience ever created.

Will this knock Scalextric off the top perch in this toy category? Time will tell.

Safety experts Bureau Veritas hold their fourth open day. Way over subscribed, this illustrates the importance placed on toy safety and those personnel responsible for their company’s safety record continue to thirst for knowledge.

DECEMBER The Entertainer Group open a 5,500sq.ft toy store in of all places Azerbaijan. Our ambassador Irfan Siddaq cuts the ribbon and the local kids in Port Baku are able to sample what a real toy shop offers.

A joint business relationship with the Zeta Group, together they plan to expand the franchise in the next 3-4 year.

The TeleTubbies continue to attract licensees with four new sign-ups – Posh Paws, Amscan, Worlds Apart and Character World.

Bandai announce that they are taking over the U.K. distribution of Japanese plush range Monchhichi from the beginning of March 2015.

First created in 1974, there is a new animation series being made and Bandai plan to highlight Monchhichi at Olympia, so watch out for this lovable brand.

Tesco are planning to totally change how they deal with all of their suppliers. They intend to reduce prices on many of their products and of course the poor old supplier will bear the brunt of these changes.

Watch this space!

MALCOLM NAISH

toysnplaythings.co.uk

LOOK BACK 2014 WITH MALCOLM NAISH

open in the second quarter of 2015 .This will be in partnership with Entertainment Retail Enterprises.

I am gutted to announce the unexpected passing of Sue Humphrey who was PA to Brian Triptree first at Action GT, then Tyco-Matchbox and latterly The Sales Partnership. We shall all miss Sue’s lively disposition at Toy Fair.

A trilogy of Harry Potter films are announced

by Warner Bros. The first will be released in the USA on 16th November 2016. And I thought we worked well in advance! play-room/AIS announce dates for their April 2015 toy and gift show, being 14/15th April.

The Brand Licensing show is once again a mega event. We have a stand at the show and enjoy plenty of key meetings with our many advertisers across our various titles. TnP votes this show one of the very best in the annual calendar.

The retail interview this month is with Rosie Marshall of Boswells in Oxford. With over 300 years of history, Boswells first started selling toys in the early 50’s.

Rosie first started at Toys ‘R’ Us on their graduate training programme and has been at Boswells for ten years. With 3,800sq.ft. of toy space they stock all of the top brands and many more giving even more space in the weeks leading up to Christmas by using floor space from other departments. Their top three items were LEGO Star Wars, Disney’s Frozen and Minecraft.

Our Front Cover story for October highlights Chicco. M.D. Mitch Levene tells us that they have enjoyed 23 months of consecutive growth. In depth research shows an 85% increase in consumers saying they have now bought a Chicco product in addition to a 138% rise in consumers citing Chicco as a brand they trust.

We Road Test Hasbro’s Nerf Rebelle range with a fantastic spread that illustrates what a great product this is for girls. Words such as really cool, amazing, powerful and fun and super-cool describe the event.

Hasbro ramp up their October TV spend with a £3,530,646 spend.

More than double their nearest competitor.

NOVEMBER Frozen fever continues with one retailer telling us that one in three calls is for a Frozen item, quite often being Jakks Pacific’s Snow-glow Elsa doll.

Ian Dayus of Great Gizmos becomes chairman of the Fence Club for 2014/15. He is pictured receiving his chairman’s chain of office from outgoing chairman Phil Green.

The ‘Dream Toys’ PR event unveils their Top 12 toys for this Christmas and enjoys excellent TV and consumer press publicity.

I enjoy the annual Hong Kong Trade Development dinner at The Dorchester. The great and the good were there to celebrate Britain’s fantastic links with our former

218

Crown Colony. This was its 31st year illustrating the strong links between our two countries. Our pic shows Minster of State & Investment Lord Livingstone of Parkhead, Financial Secretary John Tsang and HKTDC chairman Jack So. NPD release figures that show toy sales were up 6% on this time in 2013, a sure sign the economy is improving.

NPD also believe that toy sales this Christmas will be up meaning that annual sales will be over £3 billion, an increase of £166 million in one year.

Disney announce that there will be a fourth ‘Toy Story’ film that will hit screens in 2017.

It’s a sell out. Olympia Toy Fair is full with 260 exhibitors.

To the Manor Born. Our retail interview in November is with Louise Pearson of Drayton Manor Theme Park. It’s home to Thomas the Tank Engine and is owned by the Bryan family being first established back in 1950 when George and Vera Bryan converted 80 acres of derelict land into a family attraction. There are eight stores across the park with some really scary rides. It includes a 150 room 4 star hotel as well as a 15 acre zoo.

Whilst Thomas products form a major part of their offering, they also stock plenty of other wellknown toy brands.

Have Vivid discovered a major breakthrough in car racing sets? Their new Real FX gives drivers a most realistic driving experience ever created.

Will this knock Scalextric off the top perch in this toy category? Time will tell.

Safety experts Bureau Veritas hold their fourth open day. Way over subscribed, this illustrates the importance placed on toy safety and those personnel responsible for their company’s safety record continue to thirst for knowledge.

DECEMBER The Entertainer Group open a 5,500sq.ft toy store in of all places Azerbaijan. Our ambassador Irfan Siddaq cuts the ribbon and the local kids in Port Baku are able to sample what a real toy shop offers.

A joint business relationship with the Zeta Group, together they plan to expand the franchise in the next 3-4 year.

The TeleTubbies continue to attract licensees with four new sign-ups – Posh Paws, Amscan, Worlds Apart and Character World.

Bandai announce that they are taking over the U.K. distribution of Japanese plush range Monchhichi from the beginning of March 2015.

First created in 1974, there is a new animation series being made and Bandai plan to highlight Monchhichi at Olympia, so watch out for this lovable brand.

Tesco are planning to totally change how they deal with all of their suppliers. They intend to reduce prices on many of their products and of course the poor old supplier will bear the brunt of these changes.

Watch this space!

MALCOLM NAISH

toysnplaythings.co.uk

TNP T

LOOKS S BAC BACK

Step back in time TnP MD Malcolm Naish looks back at some of the events and news stories that made the pages back in January 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2010

JANUARY 2010 January 10 Volume 29 Number 4

• All the talk as we enter a new decade was about the Toy Fair moving back to Olympia. There was a huge expectancy with the whole industry very much behind the decision to return to its traditional home.

• Halsall International decides to rebrand as HTI. The name that it currently trades under in 2015.

• We are sad to report the death of Gary Sadler after a long fight with cancer. Along with his brother Stuart, they had joined the family wholesale business in Leeds in 1965. By 1973 they decided wholesaling was not for them and decided to go into retail and at one stage had 30 stores trading as Toy World.

• Disney complete their acquisition of Marvel Entertainment for a cool $4.3. billion and there is much speculation as to how the two companies will be integrated.

• Tesco is among a number of companies to announce that they will initially keep VAT at 15% on thousands of its products including toys.

• 4 Golden Teddies were handed out at the Toy of the Year bash as our picture shows Keith Lister, Alan Maton, Keith Frost and Michael Gibson – 4 gentlemen of the trade and well deserved.

• Toy of the Year went to Character Group for their GoGo Hampsters.

JANUARY 2005 • January sales are reported as being very flat with Woolies shares plunging by almost 6% as a result of flat sales on toys and DVD’s.

• Hornby announce the acquisition of Italy’s Lima Trains company, further strengthening the place within this market. A bargain at £5.5. million.

• Robert Mann leaves RC2 to take over as M.D. of Tomy following Alan Munn’s retirement.

• Character Group certainly have a knack of discovering product that makes it to ‘Toy of the Year’.

In 2005 it was their ‘Robosapiens’ that got the top spot.

• Also richly deserved was Alan Munn’s ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award presented at the Toy of the Year’ awards night.

JANUARY 1995 • The 42nd toy fair opens it’s doors at Olympia with the news that Mattel are back showing along with Humbrol.

• Following Mark Dixon’s departure from Toys R Us, Amanda Root decides to leave the company to take up a buying position at Woolworths.

• How times change. The Entertainer Group who had 7 stores at the beginning of 1995 report that customers are travelling far further than they used to buy their toys. A significant number of their customers travel up to 40 miles to buy at an Entertainer store says Gary.

• We are publicizing Jimmy Hunter’s marathon appeal on behalf of the Toy Trust in our January edition. The W.H. Smiths top 40 games chart is showing ‘Taboo’ by Milton Bradley as being top of the charts. Pictionary is second and Trivial Pursuit third.

• There is much debate about margins by the Independents or the lack of them. Our cartoon of the time sums this up.

• Toy of the Year goes to Bandai for their Power Rangers. Rosie Bales accepts the award from BATR chairman Ken Woolman and his wife Diana.

• At the same awards night great to see Bill Dowle accept a ‘Services to Industry’ award.

Moving on 20 years maybe Bill should receive a new award for his jokes via email!

JANUARY 1985 • Jim Batchelor retires from Toymaster for health reasons. He will be missed as he was a most popular figure.

• Mattel scoop Toy of the Year for their Masters of the Universe line.

• LEGO receive a special award from the NATR (as it was known then) whilst attending LEGO’s toy fair dinner celebrating their 25th year.

• Robots are all the rage at toy fair with Hasbro’s Transformers and Bandai’s Robo Machines leading the way.

• The Prince and Princess of Wales are presented with a pair of roller skates following a charity performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Starlight Express’. The skates were supplied to the cast by Freewheeler Leisure Products. (page 6 Feb ’85) • Christine Nicholls and John Hales of Golden Bear sign up Royal Doulton’s ‘Bunnykins’ characters as part of their plush range. (page 50 Feb ’85) • We publish a separate ‘Made in Great Britain’ supplement to help publicise British-made toys at toy fair.

• Persuading British manufacturers to support this supplement was a little bit like pulling teeth – no wonder so many of them perished moving forward!

JANUARY 2015

219

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Play is the highest form of research - Albert Einstein

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Brands that inspire Play! ©2015 Mattel, Inc. All rights reserved.

© 2015 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2015 HIT Entertainment Limited.

Brands that inspire Play! Š2015 Mattel, Inc. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS PG 13

15 ry 20 Janua No.4 3 Vol. 3

TEAM TnP Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

Sales Manager Abi Gardner abi@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Leader – with Mirella Anstey

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Interview – TnP sat down up with the top team that heads-up Mattel UK to find out about the latest developments from Barbie, its licensing partnerships and the year ahead

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Nuremberg 2015 – Plan your trip to the world’s biggest toy show with our in-depth show guide

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Sponsored Feature – Get to grips with Toy State’s latest lines, what they’re showing at Nuremberg, and their consumer-facing initiatives for 2015

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

PG 42

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LEADER Mirella Anstey

A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,195 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013

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At the heart of retail Also published by Lema Publishing

licensing T O D A Y

W O R L D W I D E

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elcome to our special flip promise of something new and exciting, as edition of TnP - our first of well as new spins on our favourite classics.

2015! If you are all about the Before heading out to Nuremberg to have a Spielwarenmesse, then read on! good old gander, Mattel invited me to their We give you a comprehensive guide to the UK headquarters to talk about some of the show and what to expect from the exhibitors. upcoming lines and initiatives.

The Nuremberg Spielwarenmesse is truly a Turn to page 10 to find out more about what is show to behold. With thousands of exhibitors happening in their business and also about some from the world over, present it unique ways of selling some of really is a golden opportunity their hottest franchises. Dominic to meet new partners and the Nuremberg and his team also lift the lid on look at lots of different kinds some fantastic new products Toy Fair can really of products. The halls are that are definitely worth learning give you the scope vast and the constant hum of more about and seeing how it and breadth of the conversation and negotiating is can fit into your business. hard to escape, yet somehow This month we are also industry thrilling. delighted to bring you a really Many independent retailers in depth look at Toy State – the ask me if it is a good show to Radio Control specialists who attend or if it is one mainly for the majors. My recently acquired Nikko. Andy Friess, General view is this: the Nuremberg Toy Fair can really Manager – US Operations Senior Vice President give you the scope and breadth of the industry of Global Marketing talks us through a fantastic in a way no other show can. So I suppose if range of new products, he gives us a steer on what you have the time to spare in late January Toy States plans are for Nikko now that they have or early February and want to look to create been taken into the fold and also he tells us about some points of difference between you and the some exciting new licences they are working with competitors, the show really is a cracker for - including the new 007 movie, SPECTRE! Have a you. read of page 43 and see what they have to offer.

The majors and grocers all attend and I know And in fact, if you are heading out to Nuremberg that from what they tell me it allows them for the show, pop over to Hall 12.2/P-03 and another opportunity to see the lines before Hall 7A/A-169 to get a really good look at their final selections and therefore consolidate things products. in their minds, but it also gives them a new So, for me now it’s time to say auf wiedersehen, freedom to unearth a little gem, something that and I will see some of you at the show – running perhaps isn’t widely known, if at all, in the UK. from hall to hall racing to see more fantastic When given the time to browse the 2,700 plus products! stands, there is sure to be something magical Now, if London Toy Fair is what really matters that will add an edge to your operation, no to your business this month, and let’s face it, there matter the size of it, that will help you sell cannot be many if any of us to whom it doesn’t, more. flip this magazine upside down, or right side up When thinking about Nuremberg, I am always depending on your point of view, and enjoy our excited to get there and see what is happening terrific exhibition guide to the UK toy industry’s on the Mattel stand. Every year there is the most eagerly anticipated three days!

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INTERVIEW MATTEL

Making the most of Mattel

Mattel are looking forward to a strong 2015 following on from a big year with Frozen and Thomas, but with the added buzz of a number of new lines and ranges. Dominic Geddes - VP & Country Manager, UK and his team spent a morning with TnP to give us the heads up on what the industry can expect from one of the world’s biggest toy companies

Dominic Geddes, VP and Country Manager, UK

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hile some in the toy industry have been quick to suggest Mattel has had a challenging year, UK head Dominic Geddes, says it is on the up!

“Last year was a record breaker and 2014 was our second best in 30 years in the UK”.

Team TnP was lucky enough to be invited to Mattel HQ in Berkshire to discuss the next 12 months of trading. It’s always exciting to be brought into the inner sanctum of the global toy players – the mix of brands that were part of

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Michael Hick, Sales Director UK

Wendy Hill – Director of Brand Activation UK Ireland and Nordics

all our childhoods as well as the frisson of the new is a truly intoxicating and heady cocktail.

Meeting with the team who head up Mattel UK and make the magic happen – Dominic Geddes - VP & Country Manager, UK, Ireland, Nordics & Netherlands; Michael Hick - Sales Director UK, Ireland & Nordics; Wendy Hill – Director of Brand Activation UK Ireland, Nordics & Netherlands; and Sara Tossell– Senior Manager Licensing – is an unusual opportunity.

For one, they are rarely all in the same room at one time, but it also gives us a rare and all-encompassing picture of Mattel’s operations.

Mattel is working hard managing its doll portfolio but any company that boasts Frozen, Disney Princesses,

Barbie and Thomas and Friends isn’t exactly in need of a whip round any time soon.

A recent pop song proclaimed it was ‘all about that bass’ but for Dominic and his team at Mattel, it’s all about the breadth. “Our fashion doll portfolio is so broad and is performing really well,” says Dominic.

“We have some strong plans for our retail partners which will see us building on the success of 2014.”

Mattel has made a raft of terrific acquisitions over the years, the most recent two being HIT Entertainment (the owners of Thomas, Bob the Builder and Fireman Sam) and of course, construction brand Mega.

No doubt the strategic purchase of a strong construction brand like Mega, in the hands of a brandbuilding specialist like Mattel, is sure to shake things up not only in the sector but also at the top of the toy tree. LEGO are currently the world’s biggest toy company narrowly beating Mattel to the tune of about US$300,000 globally. “For

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A NEW WAY FOR BARBIE Mattel has recently introduced a new process of selling their top franchises – a more flexible and consumer-focused plan which is paying dividends to them. Michael Hicks takes up the story: “Mattel has so many huge standalone brands – we are the brand-builders, after all. We launched a new approach to selling the likes of Barbie cross-category, in that the team will focus on the franchise in its entirety, not just the toys. So in certain retailers the offering is wide-ranging – toys, bags, stationery, apparel and so on. This format suits the shopper very well as the consumer is buying into the brand rather than just one category. It is a new direction we have taken, but so far it has proved very successful.”

sure there is huge opportunity here Mega is ripe for growth. We are very excited not only by the First Builders range but also by the unique possibilities that the Collectors range offers,” Dominic says. But he refuses to be drawn on exactly what these possibilities and opportunities might be. Instead he tantalises us with the promise of “more exciting plans to be unveiled at Nuremberg.”

Dominic and his team, Michael and Wendy, are committed to creating long-term relationships with their retail partners. Michael feels very strongly that establishing an almost bespoke alliance with retailers helps everyone sell more.

“Mattel aims for a clear retail strategy in every channel, with differentiation for every type of

Sara Tossell, Senior Manager, Licensing

JANUARY 2015

he says. “We look at every retail channel and respond to the consumer behaviour within that channel. Every retailer requires differentiation and tailored marketing too”.

Mattel UK is emerging from two terrific years and is set for a great 2015 with Thomas and Friends taking the lead in a lot of the licensing and marketing initiatives.

“Thomas is 70 years young this year,” begins Sara Tossell – Senior Manager Licensing, “and so to mark this tremendous milestone we have a lot of new activity in terms of the show but also in our retail and consumer

communications”. Wendy picks up the story: “We are celebrating the spirit and sentiment of Thomas and Friends – there is a sweet moral to the stories, the friends always pull-together to come through and so with that in mind we are really focusing on friendship – something that is crucial in the life of children.

It is a big year for Thomas and we have activity that will run throughout the year but with particular emphasis in the first quarter”.

The brand has huge resonance and since the acquisition of HIT, the Thomas licensor, Mattel

retailer,”

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INTERVIEW MATTEL

THE RISE OF DISCOUNT RETAIL Recent figures released by Kantor revealed that the supermarkets’ marginal rise in profits have been mainly due to Aldi and Lidl’s phenomenal growth. But how do these discount stores figure in the plans for Mattel’s continuing success?

“They are gathering strength and getting a lot of media attention, no question. But at this stage, we believe we will see bigger returns with out strategic partners,” says Michael.

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worked very hard to reinvigorate the brand and open the audience up.

The new initiatives and ranges have proved very successful and while at the start there was skepticism about what Mattel could bring to Thomas and how the property could have a new lease on life, it has been a great and continuing boom.

Sara also reveals that this year will be the year for Super Barbie!

“Barbie is enjoying a new incarnation – she is now a super hero – and it continues building on the theme that ‘Anything is Possible’.”

Wendy agrees that this is going to be really strong year for Barbie: “It is going to be a big year, the messaging is strong and the brand extensions are too.

We have two new DVD releases which are really fun and we are very excited about what Barbie will be bringing to the market this year”.

But for Mattel it’s not just about the evergreens.

Moreover, it is the promise of the new and exciting which

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will keep consumers and retailers interested and energised.

Recently the company launched BOOMco. and Ever After High, which are both performing well.

But this year Mattel is set to launch Hot Wheels Star Wars – a powerful mix of two strong boys’ licenses which is sure to fly off the shelves and into the bedrooms of boys all over the world.

Another exciting addition to the stable is that of new arts and crafts brand, Ami Gami.

The reception from bloggers and the new wave of influencers – the YouTube toy reviewers known as video bloggers, or vloggers for short – has been fantastic. The concept is a smart and pretty animal character that can be decorated with accessories.

The range is girl-skewed at the moment and is collectable – there are many animal figures to be collected – all of which are brightly coloured, fun and smart-looking.

Ami Gami is sure to make a splash in the competitive arts and crafts arena; apart from benefiting from Mattel’s impressive marketing and sales forces, the fact that it is quite different from anything already established in the category will set

We are very excited about what Barbie will be bringing to the market this year

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it on a strong path.

So everything looks rosy for Mattel, but it seems that there are those in the industry who feel that Mattel, despite all the successes and the ‘new’ which it has brought to the market, still isn’t delivering.

So how does Dominic answer the naysayers and the critics who suggest that Mattel are not what they used to be?

“The truth is that the UK is healthy and robust and the year ahead looks like it will be a good one with some growth in the toy category. The UK economy is certainly improving which is good news for us all. 2014 was a good year for the toy industry, there was lots of creativity and that will drive the growth in 2015.”

DISNEY: THE DREAM LICENSOR With the announcement last year that Toy Story 4 was to begin production, toy companies the world over leapt into action.

Mattel have always enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Disney. When asked about the possibility of the new movie’s toys being made by Mattel, Dominic remains tight-lipped. “We have strong and creative licensing partners in every area we work in, but clearly Disney is the world’s biggest licensor. We are delighted to be partner with Disney on any of their properties and when the time comes to discuss any new licenses we feel confident that Mattel can offer global reach, knowledge, expertise and resources that are unrivalled the world over”.

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PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Show and tell

The world’s largest toy fair is upon us. Be prepared to be dazzled by a million products from the leading suppliers and manufacturers around the globe

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he savviest among us in the get a closer look at the lines and toy trade know there is only products and the opportunity to one place to be between see manufacturers great and small, the 28th January and the 2nd some of which use Nuremberg as February 2015 - Nuremberg. their primary products Planning a trip to the world’s showcase for the European largest toy fair is no mean market. Visiting the show IS G R feat – with more than 2,700 means you can find some U B NUREM OUR exhibitors from more than fantastic lines not seen L TO A I 60 countries – any visit anywhere else, creating T N Y E ESS JERR . requires a lot of thought and that point of difference R A D CALEN ARKETING some careful consideration. between you and your ,M With 75,000 brand new competitors.

HEALY ER, S Wendy Hill, Brand G N toys on offer, it truly is an A O I N T A M ER OP embarrassment of riches and Activation Director of ARACT H C an important show for buyers Mattel agrees: “It’s the and retailers to attend. largest European Toy Fair Retailers shy away from making so it’s a fantastic opportunity to the trip to Bavaria, but in truth, it see toy manufacturers large and is a critical show. As always, you small in one venue.” With visitors from all four corners of the world making the trip to Nuremberg, for Mattel, Nuremberg is quite simply Nuremberg Toy Fair a great opportunity to catch up Where: The Nuremberg Exhibiton Centre, with existing customers and open Nuremberg, Germany up new business opportunities When: 28 Jan – 2 Feb, 2015 with people from across the Opens: 9am – 6pm daily globe. “We are looking forward to Who: Full exhibitor list at www.spielwarenmesse.de connecting with all our retailers

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JANUARY 2015

and showing them our great ranges and marketing plans that we have for 2015,” Wendy adds.

And for exhibitors the opportunity to meet so many international buyers and retailers is too good to miss. Tom Mullen of Silverlit is one such supplier who sees a great deal of value in Spielwarenmesse. “Being a company that has an office in every major European country, this

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PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Going for gold!

Visitors should keep their eyes open for any product with a ToyAward, Spielwarenmesse’s seal of excellence. The award is presented annually to products that display unrivalled innovation, creativity and play pattern, and is chosen by a panel of experts.

Knowledge is power!

Integrated into the TrendGallery, the Toy even if they’ve show allows Business Forum gives visitors the opportunity to been out to the us to exhibit hear from top-class speakers on a number of show rooms our full range topics, including current marketing in Hong Kong of products developments and trends, arming them with the earlier in the to all visiting knowledge to tackle future challenges. Each year. “For UK retailers. daily topic is broken down into several short buyers who The show is presentations in both English and German. have previewed becoming the range in more important Wed, 28 Jan: Toy Know How – experiencing our Hong Kong every year with future trends and technologies showroom, it attendance Thurs, 29 Jan: Licenses – recognising worldwide gives them an increasing.” trends in 2015 opportunity Tom says Fri, 30 Jan: Online Marketing – understanding to review their that Silverlit strategies on the World Wide Web business for the puts a lot of Sat, 31 Jan: Marketing – discovering potentials for coming season stock in the the trade and discuss show, investing Sun, 1 Feb: Visual Merchandising – creating the potential of heavily in their experience world exclusive lines,” stand to bring he says. the wonders of Nuremberg has become a their products to all visitors. “Our key business event for many booth is in excess of 10,000 sq ft; companies; an event that promises it is a sight to behold,” he says. order bookings and a chance for And he believes that it’s a great exhibitors to shore up their range venue for UK buyers and retailers and messaging before retailers and to finalise their plans and discuss buyers make have to commit for creative business opportunities, the year ahead.

“It’s a very important show as it’s another opportunity for us to connect with our retailers before they go into the selection process,” explains Mattel’s Wendy Hill. And Tom agrees: “Over the past few years, Nuremberg has become a show where some retailers will place orders and others plan for the year ahead. It gives the retailer some more time to understand product and future development within the Silverlit portfolio.”

Returning exhibitors make up

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the majority of the show floor, such is the events’ popularity among its stalwarts. But Nuremberg is also the first stepping-stone for first time exhibitors to expand into Europe and other international markets. This year, Ravensden is one such company making its debut. Michael Papé, Ravenden’s Director says that exhibiting at

STIC FANTA EE A S ’ T I OS NITY T RERS U T R O TU OPP NUFAC ALL IN A M Y M TO AND S Y LARGE NUE . WEND E ONE V ATTEL

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Nuremberg for the first time will be the perfect way to highlight and develop the plush specialist’s international business growth.

“As a company, our international client base and volume of business has been going from strength to strength over the past few years,” says Michael. “Our international business now accounts for over 40% of our total turnover and we are keen to capitalise on this by offering our existing and potential new clients another way to meet us and see our product

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Why is Nuremberg a pivotal show?

A number of industry figures told us why they find the Nuremberg show a vital component of their annual business.

“Fairs are still vital in the highly competitive pre-selection window to showcase your new products.” Dominic Geddes, Country Manager UK, Mattel “Nuremburg plays a very important role in presenting our product to our international distributors so again is essential to our calendar.” Jerry Healy, Marketing Manager, Character Options “Nuremberg is important because even though we don’t exhibit ourselves, our suppliers such as Okiedog, NICI and Plan Toys do. We then show our customers around the stands, showing them all that is new.” Judith Dayus, Director, Great Gizmos “Nuremberg is a great opportunity for us to showcase all our new products and ranges for 2015. The Fair gives Mookie a great chance to show buyers the new and exciting categories we are moving into and growing in. It also gives us time to explaining how we intend to grow our existing lines and review growth we have shown in 2014.” Guy Orr, Director Mookie

range. Nuremberg is the key European show for our sector so it made sense to debut here in 2015.

“I spent a number of days at the show last year and was struck by the sheer number of visitors from across Europe and beyond. As a first time exhibitor we are aiming to see as many of our existing clients as possible as well as showcasing our range to new clients who may very well not be aware of us.”

With so many products and exhibitors to see at Nuremberg, the show has several initiatives to ensure that every visitor can discover exactly what they’re after.

No trip to Nuremberg would be complete with stopping by the TrendGallery. Spotting the year’s big trends early can mean the difference between a good

JANUARY 2015

pick the brains of some of the year, and a fantastic one. The world’s leading games designers, TrendGallery collates a whole host game experts, publishers and of educational experiences, with game initiatives. If you want to presentations, live events and talks learn more about developing your to give you the upper hand. This own idea, tweak the business side year the focuses will be: Beyond of a creative endeavour or even Reality, a look at the trends in the find how to make entertainment games a highlight of and electronics your retail offering, industries S I W O H the GamesCafé is the gaining S THE E R O place to be. traction in the M ING toy sector, BECOMTANT EVERYN, So what can visitors to find onand Little IMPOR TOM MULLE expect stand from this year’s Scientists, .

YEAR LIT exhibitors? There’s the rising some very special popularity of SILVER new launches from introducing Mattel, according to kids to STEM Wendy. “We always have a few (Science, Technology, Engineering showstoppers up our sleeve,” she and Mathematics) concepts says. “But people will have to make early in the play cycle. A third sure they come and pay us a visit unannounced trend will round the to check them out!” off the TrendGallery’s highlights.

And Silverlit will be showcasing The International Pavilion its new DigiWorld concept, a groups exhibitors with others from their territory to offer visitors the best conditions for specifically finding the products of individual markets.

So whether you want to see the best product out of India, Thailand, Australia or any of the other dozen international markets with their own pavilion, it’s easy.

The Testing & development of its popular Inspecting Centre acts as a hub for DigiBirds series which incorporates all things toy safety. With quality new releases in the range. “Our and safety two dominating show stopper this year is the issues in the development in of DigiFriend range, you really need new toys, the experts on hand to see it to believe it,” says Tom. in Hall 11.1 are And Michael says that there to Ravensden will be showcasing help. So if brand new product for 2015 and you want established 2014 best sellers, plus to bring a a quick on-stand refreshment. new toy to “Unfortunately I didn’t have the market, gain space to build some of the great clarity on the animal themed displays that small print, or we have at the Spring Fair in be better informed Birmingham but I am offering a to assist your free cup of coffee and a biscuit to customers, a trip to visitors to our stand!” this section of the show So, it’s time to double and is vital. triple check your flights, and start And just a short walk through planning your great Bavarian into Hall 11 will give visitors access adventure now. Find out who will to the GamesCafé, a hot spot be exhibiting and what they’ll be for the professional international showing in our special Nuremberg games community. This platform guide overleaf. gives visitors the opportunity to

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NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Full of brains!

Green Board Games

01494538999 www.greenboardgames.com

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Sta ll 12 nd B03 -1

As always Green Board Games will be flying the flag at the forthcoming shows with a host of new products as well as the bestselling BrainBox and family ranges. Never ones to miss out on the fun, the The BrainBox range has once again exceeded itself with new titles including On The Farm, Space and Cities of the World to support the top

THAT IS

DON’T HIDE THESE AWAY

The Puppet Company 01462 446040 www.thepuppetcompany.com

Hall 109

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New for 2015, The Puppet Company is launching three new Hideaway Puppets featuring, complete with assorted finger puppets and a playhouse for them to live in. These sets follow on from their ever popular Tree House, Mice in Cheese and Rabbit in a Lettuce. Also new are the Full Bodied Puppet – fantastic value with fabulous materials and 21 different animals to collect. These puppets are not a straight forward sleeved puppet but come with full arms and legs making them just as cuddly as a soft toy but with all the interactivity and power of a puppet.

Learning life skills LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819380 www.LearningResources.co.uk

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Learning Resources develop toys that teach valuable life skills and prepare the minds of children for the wider world. Exhibiting at the Nuremburg Toy Fair, Learning Resources will be presenting over 100 new products for 2015.

Learning Resources provide a hands-on and innovative range of toys, games and learning aids providing important learning experiences for children. Absorbent minds will be so preoccupied with fun they won’t even realise they are learning!

Every keen-eyed child with a passion for the outdoors will enjoy Learning Resources’ new Primary Science Binoculars. These robust, simple-to-use binoculars feature an awesome 6x magnification, plus easy grip focus knob designed especially for small hands.

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selling BrainBox the World. 2015 will see the first BrainBox pre school games launched which are just fantastic, as well as another new BrainBox range which is still a top secret. That’s not all, there will also be some great new quick learn quick play games which will have you hooked in seconds, some new Build and Learn animals, and a host of new books and games. For those who are more education focused, we will be showing our Green Board Education range which is linked to the National Curriculum and includes multi game play ideas for teachers and parents to support children’s learning. All of this plus you will be greeted on the GBG stand with a big smile, plenty of enthusiasm.

WICKED!

Wicked d Vision 0203 195 1565 65 www.wickedvision.co.uk dvision.co.uk Wicked will present three new products. A fusion of badminton and street football, UKick ick is an active, Stand E15 interactive game loved by kids big and small. To challenge yourself, ourself, simply adjust the weighted eighted discs to suit your skill level. vel. Next up is the brand new Wicked Micro ro Riderz Loop & Jump Pack.

Featuring a full loop, four ramps and two Wicked Micro Riderz. Prepare to mesmerise passers-by with the Wicked Sonic Booma. It offers an exciting multi-sensory experience as it screams loudly in flight. A tri-blade boomerang with a 15-20 metre flight range, Wicked Sonic Booma boasts the same advanced technology and precision weighting as the world famous Wicked Outdoor Booma.

Hall 8

Easily convince children to enjoy one of their ‘five a day’ with Learning Resources’ vibrant and appetising new sprouts, fresh fruit salad. Prepare a feast of fruits including pineapple rings, berry clusters, strawberries, kiwi slices and orange slices. The set’s unique watermelon boat is great for serving up a healthy spread.

Encourage geographical knowledge of the globe with new Hot Dots Brainbox Let’s Learn! About Our World. A perfect way to encourage independent learning, this self-checking all-in-one set transports youngsters to all their favourite destinations.

Flags features different flags from around the world, testing children’s recognition skills and knowledge of the countries they represent Capitals and Currencies helps children learn about the capital cities of different countries and the currencies and coinage associated with each; while Places broadens children’s awareness of countries around the world through identifying landmarks and iconic objects.

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Spielwarenmesse

International Toy Fair ..

Nurnberg

28.01-2.02.2015 TREFL SA Hall 10.1 / Stand F-34 www.trefl.com

PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Once upon a time at… Chicco CHICCO 01623 750870 www.chico.com

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Hal l 12.

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hicco will be unveiling its exciting new 2015 collection at the Nuremberg show, as well as announcing two fun and fabulous partnerships to produce licensed toys.

Firstly, Chicco is thrilled to introduce its new partnership with Disney. Walt Disney, top licensor and representing 41% of licensed toys sold globally, joins Chicco with two of its most appreciated and sold properties: Disney Baby & Disney Princess.

Both licenses will have great focus from Disney in the following years thanks to on-going airings and new movies. This long-lasting partnership will cover an infant segment that is

new for Disney Princess, complemented with Chicco’s knowledge and expertise in babycare.

The range will start with specific 6m to 12 m toys, such as a Snow White mirror, a Cinderella highchair toy, a Cinderella spinner and an electronic Snow White Cottage. All of the new toys have been lovingly created and designed in collaboration with Osservatorio Chicco, Chicco’s official Baby Research Centre where paediatricians and parents work together to study stimuli and provide insight to assist the growth and learning development of babies. Babies will be able to use the Disney Princess range to assist development of early tactile and coordination skills.

Chicco has also embarked on an exciting partnership with Fiat to further develop the already successful range of Remote Control Cars. It will begin with a brand-new radio controlled car for the 2015 range. Suitable for toddlers aged two years and upwards, the Fiat 500 is a cute little number controlled using a steering wheel-shaped remote, which also features a horn. The Fiat 500’s friendly face is sure to win over little ones and parents alike. Fiat 500 R/C

First time at the fair RAVENSDEN 01933 356221 www.ravensden.co.uk Nobody understands animals like Ravensden.

From Alpacas to Zebras, soft toys to ceramics, Ravensden has a comprehensive range of animal themed merchandise available in Europe.

Products can be created based on customisation of existing designs or a complete development of a product or character to suit your particular requirements. Many of Ravensden products can be branded for your attraction. Options include

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will be another hero product in the already successful family of R/C products by Chicco, such as Billy Big Wheels and Johnny Coupè.

Elsewhere in the Chicco range, the Fit & Fun line, dedicated to stimulating kids’ motor skills, will be extended with the introduction of a Mini Golf Club. For children aged two years and upwards, the new golf game will help to develop toddlers’ accuracy skills. The game’s lights and vibrant colours make it even more entertaining, while the two scorekeepers help players to keep track of their achievements. With two different modes, golf training or hit the target, there’s plenty to keep little ones amused for hours.

Chicco will also be continuing throughout 2015 with its charitable commitments, presenting novelties at Nuremberg. Chicco gave back in 2014 with a dedicated CSR project, raising money for the “aiutare i bambini” Onlus Foundation.

As part of the ongoing Happiness goes from Heart to Heart project, Chicco has joined forces with its global partners to raise money for this important campaign aimed at treating childhood heart disease.

embroidery on soft toys, dressing of soft toys with personalised t-shirts, bespoke swing tags promoting your brand and message or pad printing onto a number of stock items. Their designers and production team carry out all artwork origination and printing on Ravenden’s own site. With over 250 new lines introduced for 2015 including many new styles in the Ravensden Collection range of soft toys and a smaller range of realistic bird soft toys with sound designed in conjunction with the RSPB. For the first time Ravensden is at the Nuremberg Toy Fair so if you are looking for a range of fast selling merchandise that is a little different why not come and visit them.

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PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Steaming ahead

Creation is key

BIGJIGS TOYS

ZAPF CREATION 0845 0533 333 www.zapf-creation.co.uk

01303 250400 www.bigjigstoys.com

Hall 1 2

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Zapf Creation is very pleased to announce it will once again be exhibiting at the Nuremberg 2015 International Toy Fair. Following the continued success of the UK’s Number One large doll brand Baby Annabell, Zapf Creation will be exhibiting exciting new accessory additions to the range for 2015, building on the world of Baby Annabell and making it even more of a reflection of a real baby’s life. The UK’s second large doll brand, BABY born, will also be showcasing a new wholesome theme and a new addition to the BABY born plush toy segment. As a result of its huge success in Germany, Zapf’s Mini CHOU CHOU brand will be revealing new animal themed characters and expanding on its collectability by growing into the playset category. Zapf Creation will also be exhibiting its My Model brand, which focuses on the development of a child’s creative and imaginative skills.

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Bigjigs Toys will reveal two new ranges under its Bigjigs Rail brand, adding no less than 12 new lines to its wooden rail collection. Included is Bigjigs Rail Dino Range Teaming rail with another popular theme among pre-schoolers is the 44-piece Farm Train Set, offering railway adventures in a rural setting at an affordable price.

Seven new faces join the Bigjigs Toys plush range. These cheerful and traditional plush dolls are large in both character and size, with a height of 350mm. Pop by the stand to see all new ranges.

A PASSION FOR FASHION

Wooky Entertainment www.wookyentertainment.com 0151 494 3821

Hall 4

D09 Stand

Nuremberg Toy Fair is your chance to get a good look at Charmazing, the new concept which combines jewellery making, charms and an app which opens up a whole new world. These hi-tech trinkets allow girls to share and compare as they build their collection across a number of popular themes. Charmazing is the trendiest craze to style kids’ wrists this year. This design-it-yourself jewellery features expandable, stackable bracelets and collectible charms. Ultimate fashionistas can use their imaginations and enjoy hours of totally chic bracelet and accessory making fun with over 100 stylish and symbolic collectible charms to customise their creations. Children can also download the free iOS or Android app to share and show off their collections with the ultimate goal of becoming true Charm Masters in the digital universe. This major launch for Europe starts here. Wooky Europe is also launching a new licensed range with Disney and a full portfolio of Style Me Up! branded products for 2015.

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OWER P L A D PE

PREVIEW

NUREMBERG 2015

Mattel powers into 2015 MATTEL www.mattel.com

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As Mattel’s powerful brand portfolio continues to go from strength to strength, it welcomes MEGA Brands into the Mattel family and looks forward to an exciting year ahead.

Barbie In 2015, and for the first time in Barbie history, Barbie will join the ranks of the superheroes - celebrating girl empowerment and encouraging girls to find their own superpowers within - with the release of a new feature film, Barbie in Princess Power. The new DVD is supported by a fantastic toy line, including the Superhero to Princess lead doll who, just like in the movie, transforms from Princess Kara to Super Sparkle at the press of a gem.

An extensive marketing programme, TV campaign and PR programme, as well as eye-catching POP will make this a major release for spring 2015.

This spring, too, Barbie will continue to inspire and lead the fashion world with the launch of new creative hair-play and fashion products, inlcuding the Barbie Rainbow Makeover Doll – a fresh new look aimed at engaging her older fans. Barbie’s popular pet play also expands with the Barbie Colour Me Cute doll. The salon trend of customisation is the key feature of

this fun new puppy set. Barbie fairytale also expands with some innovative new additions to the range including the Mix and Match Fairytale Assortment and the Bubble-tastic Mermaid.

Monster High This much-loved brand continues its freaktacular brand campaign, We Are Monster High, inviting current and new fans to fly their freaky-fab flags and show their ghoul spirit.

2015 also This Scare-Mester, the sees the release Monster High students are of two new participating in a Monster Exchange programme. And entertainment this is supported by a fangtitle – Haunted, tastic new range. There will and a musical be some old faces too with spectacular in the Monster High Original Ghouls Collection. the Autumn.

2015 also sees the release Bringing more of two new entertainment exciting content title – Haunted, and a to new and musical spectacular in the Autumn. Bringing more existing Monster exciting content to new and High fans existing Monster High fans, the release is also supported with a freaktacular new range of characters and a supporting toy line.

Ever After High This brand kicks

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off 2015 with a new brand communication continuing to engage girls with the duality of the brand and introduce them to new Royal and Rebel characters.

This new entertainment will be broadcast on Netflix – this includes Spring Unsprung in Spring – and all is supported with a spellbinding doll collection.

2015 also sees the unveiling of an exciting new craft range Ami Gami.

This fantastic new addition to the girl’s portfolio kicks off with the Ami Gami Figure Assortment, which features some creative and cute animal assortments for girls to make.

Disney Princess The Disney Princess partnership continues with the very popular Frozen range of beautiful dolls and playsets. These include the Frozen Singing Elsa Doll, which sees Elsa break out into the now-famous Let It Go song; and the brilliantly entertaining Frozen Summer Singin’ Olaf, who sings about what frozen things do in

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the heat. Also, watch the amazing colour change Anna and Elsa as they magically transform their crowns and dresses.

Fisher-Price This brand will ontinue to lead the way in 2015 with new launches, hot licences and all-encompassing marketing campaigns. With innovative product lines throughout its extensive portfolio, Fisher-Price continues to build on natural discovery, play value and learning content.

Continuing to provide innovative solutions for parents in its baby gear and newborn ranges, Fisher-Price launches the new Rainforest Friends SpaceSaver Jumperoo and the Newborn-to-Toddler Play Gym. The infant range sees the introduction of bath toys including the Stackin’ Tub Time Boat and Hippo Bath toy, as well as new additions to the musical toys segment; while the Laugh & Learn range launches new products featuring the innovative Smart Stages™ technology including new Puppy & Puppy’s Sis. The FisherPrice Little People™ characters range will grow in 2015 and will be complemented by the popular playsets.

The Fisher-Price Disney licence collections, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Minnie Mouse and Jake and the Never Land Pirates, will feature exciting new products this spring; while the popular FisherPrice Octonauts range welcomes the introduction of new talking Gups and the expansion of the Speeders.

The brand also looks forward to two highly anticipated new additions to the licensed portfolio with the launch of its Dora & Friends and Bing Bunny toy ranges in the summer.

BOOMco brings the next generation of adrenaline-fuelled fun to the outdoor market with a range of impressive amped-up blasters, darts, shields and targets featuring Smart Stick technology for the ultimate active-play experience.

New for 2015 are the impressive Power Slam and Railstinger blasters and the Twisted Spinner.

Hot Wheels will be celebrating the

JANUARY 2015

launch of the hugely anticipated Star Wars Episode 7 film with an exciting range including the 64 Character Cars for boys to collect, and an amazing Death Star Track Set. Following the launch of the Track Builder range, boys will be able to continue to connect and race with the innovative Track Builder Starter Set and Performance Track Set along with the core die cast cars.

Disney Pixar’s Cars has truly earned its spot as an established evergreen property and sees new assortments for 2015 - including the Story Set Launcher and System Playset, as well as the Mack Truck Playset.

Following the release of Disney Pixar Planes; Fire and Rescue, Planes introduces a fantastic new range – this includes Fire and Rescue; Rescue Mission Blade Ranges, Story Set Extension Assortment and the Story Set Playset Assortment.

The buzz about Toy Story continues with Large Scale Basic Buzz and the Battlesaurs range based on the new Toy Story TV movie; Toy Story That Time Forgot.

WWE Wrestling favourite WWE continues its impressive Super Strikers range including an amazing figure assortment to deliver signature moves, as well as the launch of the Dual Force allowing kids to re-recreate the action.

Mattel Games Finally, Mattel Games sees the exciting launch of Minecraft with a range of single figure blind bags and a three figure assortment plus the Enchanted Sword. New additions to Scrabble include Scrabble Plus and a new updated version of Travel Scrabble, whilst UNO launches Dare.

Thomas & Friends Celebrating its 70th anniversary 2015 promises to be an action-packed year for Thomas & Friends beginning with an allencompassing marketing campaign with the core brand value – friendship - at its heart. Continuing to bring its expertise in play to the brand, FisherPrice is celebrating this special year with exciting new launches across all its Thomas & Friends toy ranges. New for spring is the expansion of the My First Thomas collection including new Pop & Go Thomas and new additions to the Take-n-Play and TrackMaster ranges including the Rattling Railsss and Breakaway Bridge playsets.

Imaginext continues to put thrilling action into the hands of pre-schoolers with new launches in the DC Super Friends range including the new Hall of Doom in spring. The ongoing success of the popular Batcave builds momentum for an exciting new launch later in the year.

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NUREMBERG 2015

Building on its Mega success MEGA BRANDS 01844 35 0033 www.megabloks.com

For Pre-school AW 2015 is set to be a big season for Mega Bloks as it continues to build upon its successful ranges including the industry-leading and awardwinning pre-school construction line - Mega Bloks First Builders.

Toddlers can discover a world of building with new products, which include the innovative Block Picking Wagon; they can pull the wagon, filled with blocks, for classic play or push and scoop blocks up for fun and easy clean-up. The Block Picking Wagon is sure to please little preschoolers and mums alike.

2015 is set to be an unforgettable year for Thomas and Friends, with the brand celebrating its 70th anniversary. To mark the special occasion, Mega Bloks will be launching a Sodor’s Celebrations themed set featuring an exclusive new buildable Thomas engine

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adorned with a birthday hat. In addition, new characters and movie related product will be introduced to the range.

In line with the new Dora and Friends TV series, which sees a grown-up Dora living in the city, Mega Bloks is launching a new range featuring friendly characters, buildable locations and post building play features, such as music and magic.

For Girls For 2015, six spooktacular playsets and eight mini monster figures creep into the construction aisle with the all-new Mega Bloks Monster High™ line. For the trendsetter, girls aged six and above can build and create freaky fab fun with favourite Monster High characters. The characters feature full articulation and can strike any drop-dead gorgeous, buildyour-own pose.

Girls will love the cool fashion styles, trendy accessories, and secret reveals hidden in these freaktastic sets. Build and host a premiere with the Monster Moviemobile, dance away to the real music with the Graveyard Garden Party, or strike a pose in Draculaura Vamptastic Room.

Mega Bloks will be launching its own IP brand for girls: The Craftails. Welcome to Storywood, home of the Craftails - friendly little creatures with big imaginations and even bigger tails!

This innovative brand allows girls aged five and above to explore their curious and creative natures by combining easy building and mess-free crafts to create a world of endless possibilities.

Great for girls and parents alike, this line features adorable, collectable animal figurines with furry tails, which accompany every customisable playset.

Mega Bloks will also be building upon its popular Barbie range with new easy-to-build themes, including Careers, Pets and Entertainment, allowing girls to be absolutely anything they can imagine.

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New in 2015, builder boys get the chance to channel their ‘inner Minions’ with the all-new Mega Bloks Despicable Me

For Boys New in 2015, builder boys get the chance to channel their ‘inner Minions’ with the allnew Mega Bloks Despicable Me line. Inspired by the franchise’s new movie’s iconic characters, locations and vehicles, the line will feature easy-to-build and fully customisable construction sets with mix-and-match capabilities, such as interchangeable accessories.

Buildable Minions will be unique e to each set, offering a wide variety of Minions that can be collected, built and played with. h.

Mega Bloks SpongeBob SquarePants will continue to focus on these highly detailed buildable collectable figures and the fun features in the underwater themed vehicles and locations. With neverbefore-seen character variations, collectability is guaranteed.

This year, for the first time, the popular Mega Bloks Hot Wheels™ line will incorporate real Hot Wheels track pieces into its playsets. Boys will enjoy building heroic cars that can ride on the new track. Mega Bloks cars have always been based on iconic Hot Wheels vehicles, but for AW 2015, sets will include allnew original Mega Bloks designs and cool new drivers.

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Exciting new lines HTI

Hall 12 .2

Stand P09

01253 778888 www.htigroup.co.uk

HTI will be delivering more than 140 new lines. With Disney Frozen having achieved critical acclaim, HTI will showcase the Disney Frozen Colour Change Bag – hold the bag against whatever you want to match it to, press the button and it magically changes colour.

With a multi-territory licence partnership with Hasbro for role-play sets, HTI offers an exciting range of My Little Pony toys inspired by the play themes of glam-up and beauty. The Rainbow Dash ‘Style n Groom’ is a full-body, 3D pony with a long mane of multi-coloured hair. It comes with lots of styling and glam-up accessories that can be used on the pony and girls alike. HTI continues to strengthen the core boys’ toy category with the Tonka brand, reinforcing the original brand values tough, durable and long-lasting play. With its steel cab and moving steel rear tipper, the new robust metal Tonka Mighty Dump Truck can withstand hours of tough play. HTI is also launching two new exciting die-cast Tonka ranges for 2015, and a new playmat storage case set. HTI offers an extensive selection of fun Peppa Pig role-play, musical and wheeled toys, as well as dolls prams. A new large floor-standing multi-feature kitchen includes a fridge, cooker, working toaster, electronic cooking sounds and the Peppa Pig theme tune. In anticipation of a new Minions Movie hitting cinema screens in 2015, HTI will showcase two new tooled Minions character shaped cases ideal for role-play: the Minions Explorer Case and the Minions Construction Case.

HTI continues to offer Barbie role-play toys internationally. New for 2015 is the Barbie Sparkle and Shine Bag, a stylish handbag with light up bow charm complete with lots of glam-up accessories. There’s also a new Barbie Sparkle and Shine light up secret locket and bracelet with charms to decorate.

In anticipation of ‘Transformers: Robots in Disguise’ animated TV series due to air internationally from Q1 2015, HTI is presenting vehicle track sets based on the animated franchise under licence from Hasbro with EMEA distribution rights. This is merely a taster of all that is on offer at the HTI stand in Nuremberg, so pop by to find out more.

SUPERSIZE ME

Players for 250 years!

CARTAMUNDI 01268 511522 www.cartamundi.co.uk

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Four new Shuffle games will be on display at Nuremberg: Shuffle Disney Frozen, Shuffle Disney Cars and Shuffle MONOPOLY Deal Disney Edition.

They will also introduce exciting new games coming to retail soon, including Animal Planet Cutie, a new game based on the enormously popular Discovery Networks channel and Frozen two-in-one — a two-game pack based, like the Shuffle version, on one of the biggest Disney film hits in recent years.

Visitors will also hear about the company’s plans for expansion of its own-brand children’s education games and continuing expansion to the lines of licensed children’s and pre-school games. They will also get a preview of future developments to the Shuffle line. There will be the little matter of preparations for the 250th anniversary of one of the best-known names in the history of playing cards!

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Revell GmbH 0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en Revell is returning to Nuremberg Toy Fair next year with two supersize stands.

The Revell stand in Hall 12.2 showcases Hall 12 all their ranges for the toy market, the .2 Stand Hobbico stand in Hall 7A specialises in 13 the fast-growing hobby RC sector.

Quadmania has truly landed for Revell Control with an affordable first-person view drone, the 2.4GHz WiFi Quadcopter “X-SPY”.

This little gem is equipped with a camera to instantly stream video or pictures to your Smartphone via WiFi; crash, bash and fly for fun with the unstoppable 2.4GHz Rayvore Quad Copter, featuring four flight modes and high-powered motors. On the ground, there are the exclusive to Revell Control, four brand new designs of the popular RC Mini Cars in a can; RC Mini Action is a range of emergency service vehicles in evocative ‘fire extinguisher’ packaging; and several entry-level, durable RC buggies and monster trucks complete the street scene. This and lots more so make sure to call by their stand to see the full range.

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Scoot on!

HY-PRO 01582 670 100 www.hy-pro.co.uk

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Hy-Pro, the UK outdoor manufacturing company with offices in UK and Hong Kong, has an extensive and successful portfolio of own brands and licensed brands. The products are designed to keep kids active and playing outside. A mixture of these brands and products will be showcased at Nuremberg 2015.

Leading scooter brand Zinc features impressive intellectual properties and cutting-edge designs, offering a competitive range in today’s market.

Feature scooters include Ignite, the real exhaust smoke effect scooter; Outlaw, with flame effect; Volt, the electric scooter range, plus there are feature bikes, BMX’s, skateboards, stunt scooters and more!

On trend with customisation in the stunt scooter scene, Style a Ride by Zinc gives children the chance to design and fully accessorise their very own scooter, promoting individuality and creativity. The first step involves choosing a scooter from the range and whether a tri-scooter or a Rock n Roller, or an inline scooter there’s something to suit everyone. Choosing the theme is the next stage; with themed stickers included with every scooter the final step is for children to choose an accessory or accessories to have a fully customised Style A Ride.

Rollers by Zinc is a pre-school brand designed to help pre-schoolers naturally gain confidence on ride ons and balance bikes making the transition to scooters easier. The award-winning R1 converts from a trike to a tri-scooter and the R2 transforms from a balance bike to an inline scooter. Launched in autumn/winter of 2014, the growing brand will unveil new “R” models at Nuremberg.

Working with brands that enhance and complement its range is Hy-Pro’s key focus in the search for the latest licensed brands. And of course ensuring the range resonates with the target market. With brands such as Barbie, Monster High, Hot Wheels, Matt Hatter Chronicles and Mixels in the portfolio, the company will be showcasing a highly innovative licensed wheeled range so come along and see for yourself.

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Lots to talk about TOBAR 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk

With over 1,500 products to choose from, you won’t be short of choice at the Tobar stand.

New distribution partners include USA brand Schylling famous for classic tin toys, stationary brand Scentos, exciting outdoor brand Turbospoke. In addition, Hall 4 Zuru and Bburago Stand will be unveiling some F95 exciting new lines to tempt customers in 2015. Zuru has come up with an ingenious addition to the Robo Fish and Magical Mermaid collection. 2015 is all about Robo Turtles and these gorgeous little creatures will complement existing lines from Zuru perfectly. Tobar continue their partnership with Blue Sky and introduce the new Star Wars Collection! May The Force Be With You as this classic licensed Star Wars stationary and gifts comes to market in 2015. Tobar are delighted to be the new distribution partner for American brand Schylling who for the last 30 years have been recognised for their stunning Classic tin toy collection. With over 100 new timeless toy lines being added this is sure to be a very popular brand with Tobar customers.

For any fans of the famous dancing horse the news that Bburago have secured the worldwide distribution rights for Ferrari Die Cast models will be good news. Tobar are delighted to be working with Bburago on this exciting new partnership. Sales of stationary continue to boom and the search for something unique resulted in a new distribution partnership with Scentos. This brightly coloured range of scented children’s stationary is perfect for birthdays, party bags and other gifting. Looking to expand their outdoor range of toys Tobar have teamed up with Turbospoke to become their new distribution partner for the UK and France.

This range of cool bike accessories lets children customise their own bike.

These innovative accessories are safe, fun and totally unique. In addition Tobar has added new lines to their own brand collection of classic Pocket Money and Adult Novelty Gifts all with an RRP of £5 or less.

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速

See us at

N端rnberg

Hall 12, Stand B-03-1

3 million sold 57 countries 26 languages sales@greenboardgames.com

www.greenboardgames.com

PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Putting innovation first ZURU

Hall 12

Stand H4-3

www.zuru.com 852 9439 6316 Hall 12.0 Stand H-04-3

At Nuremberg Toy Fair 2015, Zuru will be presenting an impressive range of new and innovative lines. With sales of X-Shot continuing to soar, Zuru is expanding into new categories and applying the same winning X-shot formula. Zuru will present new items within this line, ranging from clip guns, foam swords and bow & arrow sets, all strategically designed and engineered to have high-perceived value at the lowest possible cost.

Bug Attack combines two of the company’s most successful brands, X-Shot & Creepeez, delivering an innovative and exciting new play pattern in the blaster category. And following the signing of the kick-starter sensation ‘Bunch O Balloons’, Zuru is on track to become a major player in the water balloon category, with everything from its water balloon filling devices to innovative water blasters.

The success of the Robo brand will continue in 2015 with the launch of three new innovative micro robotic concepts. Robo Turtle will be the first to launch in spring, with its life-like movements in water and on land. The Robo Jelly Fish will swim with life-like movements, illuminating the tank with its RGB LED lights and charges on a stand, which also acts as a colour changing night-light.

The Robo Fish Charger is the much-anticipated 5th Wave of Robo Fish that charges in its portable dock, removing the need to replace the batteries inside the Fish.

Zuru has recently acquired a global licence from Disney to manufacture deluxe licensed mini figurines. These high-quality mini figures from Zuru are now available across the following licences: Frozen, Marvel, Disney Friends, Disney Pixar, Justice League and Planes. Each of these figures comes in a capsule, accompanied with innovative merchandising concepts to showcase effectively in store. This and lots more!

Fun in a flash WORLDS APART 0800 389 8591 www.worldsapart.com

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Worlds Apart will be displaying its fresh new look and family of brands during 2015’s Nuremberg Toy Fair. The Worlds Apart suite of brands covers numerous categories, ranging from role-play and active play to lighting, travel, bedroom furniture and accessories.

Working closely with licence partners, Worlds Apart collaborates on product development to put the best-loved characters at the heart of its range, and always ensures licence is creatively integrated within its product features. For 2015, hot new licences will include Frozen, Minions and Star Wars.

On show at Nuremberg 2015 will be GetGo – a dynamic active play range that is harnessing a considerable amount of new patent work. With convenience at its heart, the new Pop Away system

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and Ugo Play Tent are key innovations for 2015. The Pop Away system ensures the GetGo pop-up tents and tunnels are just as easy to put away.

The unique Ugo Play Tent has a unique twist up and away system offering fun in a flash. The Ugo Play Tent will be launched with both GetGo own-brand and Frozen, Disney Princess and Cars licensed options.

Being previewed during the show will be the new generation of DreamTown, which is making a 2015 comeback due to popular demand. Once the Number One brand for role-play, DreamTown will be updated for 2015, launching with a restyled Rose Petal Cottage and updated features built into the product design. Also on display at Nuremberg will be ReadyBed, the original all-in-one sleeping bag and bed; the GoGlow night-light range; and the ReadyRoom bedroom accessories.

This, and lots more so make sure you pop by the fantastic stand to find out more from Worlds Apart.

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GET ON BOARD TREFL 07850 779797 www.trefl.com

10.1 Hall 34

dF Stan

Trefl is a manufacturer of jigsaw puzzles, board games and playing cards, all of which are manufactured in Gdynia in Poland. The company was established in 1985 and presently runs two factories, employing more than 500 people.

Trefl’s products are delivered to over 50 countries worldwide, with products based on the most popular objects and places. The brand also boasts most of the major character licenses in Poland, including favourites from Disney, Marvel, Warner Bros, Hasbro and Mattel, to name but a few.

The quality of Trefl products is second to none – they use the highest quality board and produce innovative, topquality, beautiful pictures on all of their puzzles. All these factors make Trefl the leading manufacturer of jigsaw puzzles in Central Europe and the brand has enjoyed great initial success in 2015 in the UK. Trefl will be presenting its ranges to UK buyers and retailers attending Nuremberg. Contact Steve Richardson, head of UK and ROI Sales for catalogues or for more details of their ranges, or to arrange an appointment at Nuremberg Toy Fair.

JANUARY 2015

Spinner winner FLYPE

Hall 1 0 Stan d D17

+33 607 605 116 www.flype.com The multi award-winning French phenomenon Flype is spinning its wonderful way to Nuremberg Toy Fair 2015. Flype is the new pocket money collectible skills game that not only encourages movement but also helps develop concentration.

Once the user starts moving, the Flype spins evenly, with the grace and poetry of a butterfly, at their fingertips. The effect is so compelling that everyone who sees it will want to try it, say the company.

Suitable for kids aged 5+, Flype’s core audience, however, is children aged 8-12. Flype is easy to use and yet continues to challenge and can be played indoors and outdoors. There are more than 100 designs available to collect and design contests by the brand allow design winners to have their creation made and sold in shops. Lightweight, pocket-sized and operating without batteries, Flype is a meaningful impulse product.

Flype offers TV display boxes for retailers; provides the kits for recreation professionals and offers them customisable for advertising purposes.

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Delightfully different

Hall 12

Stand A04-1

TTS 01623 887 068 www.tts-group.co.uk Nuremberg Toy Fair sees the launch of over 100 new teaching resources from TTS, including the exciting new bluetoothenabled Blue-Bot and more versatile additions to the “simply brilliant” Marvellous Metallics range.

TTS is home to award winning, unique and innovative educational resources. All of their products have been researched, developed and tested with close involvement from teachers and children. They aim to inspire teachers and engage children, giving every child a reason to love learning every day.

Celebrating 30 years, TTS has extensive experience in supplying schools, nurseries and distributors across the world. It has the knowledge and understanding of the education market to help your businesses grow.

Focusing on key areas of the school curriculum and specific stages in child development, TTS has an outstanding range of high quality resources available. The TTS products range, from delightfully different early years resources and products that encourage speech and language development, to remote control cars and programmable Bee-Bots. Visit the stand and discover a world of opportunity!

MINATURE MARKET

Streets Ahead Dollshouse 01752 338222 www.streetsaheaddollshouse.com

The world in your pocket 1 Hall 3 d F1

Stan

Streets Ahead is the largest dolls house supplier exclusively to the trade in Europe. Having had a momentous 2014 with the acquisition of successful brand Dolls house Emporium, Streets Ahead now offers a wider selection than anyone in Europe – and for the first time, Streets Ahead and Dolls house Emporium ranges have been included together in the 2015 catalogue, which features 244 pages. Product ranges include Dolls houses, people, furniture, musical instruments, accessories, wallpapers, carpets, doors, and windows etc, to name but a few. Although Streets Ahead has traditionally supplied to specialist hobby, model and dolls house shops, they have recently moved into supplying other industries, from cake and floristry businesses, to craft workshops. And while they specialise in the collectors over 14 market, they offer a range of CE marked dolls houses and furniture in pink and blue, enabling children of all ages to indulge in the dolls house hobby. Streets Ahead offers a comprehensive international service for retailers outside of the UK and highly competitive rates on carriage both by road and air. They also offer a far higher retail margin than many traditional model and hobby ranges, while there is no minimum order value and no minimum product quantities. The brand also offers retailers the use of its images and/or catalogue content for its webshop, promotional material and advertising campaigns.

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POCKETBOND/TOYWAY 01707 391509 www.pocketbond.co.uk

Hall 7

The Pocketbond stand in Stand F3 1 Nuremberg is where buyers can find the largest collection of World War I plastic model kits. In view of the 2014-2018 centenary commemorations of World War I, there is more interest than ever in the military hardware used during this conflict.‘EMHAR’ model tank kits are produced in both 1:35 and 1:72 scale and include the MK IV “Male”, “Female” and “Tadpole”, MK A “Whippet”, MK V “Hermaphrodite” and the German “A7V”. Figurines in 1:72 and 1:35 include British and German infantry and artillery and American “Doughboys” infantry.

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e u q i Un logy o l o n h c e t

Twist Up Twist down.

! o g o t y d a Re

Patent Pending

The Innovation Factory 3 Hurling Way, St. Columb Major Business Park Cornwall TR9 6SX 0845 60 22 119 | www.worldsapart.com

Come and see us at Spielwarenmesse International in Nuremberg. Hall 7 stand C-21 C

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NUREMBERG TOY FAIR LITTLE ONES IN THE LIMELIGHT NEW FOR 2015 FROM FIESTA CRAFTS!

Fiesta Crafts 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

1 Hall 09 B

d From a very early age, nothing Stan soothes a child more than music.

This handmade rotating music box plays Brahms lullaby, lasting four minutes each cycle and guaranteed to help send baby off to sleep. The bright coloured wooden animals make it a stylish accessory for the nursery too. The music box is also available in pink elephant and blue elephant designs.

Handmade, chunky and durable, these beautiful music boxes are also available in blue elephants, pink elephants and jungle animals themes. The bright coloured, sturdy animals are not only useful in helping with a child’s sensory development by getting them used to new sounds, they have also been designed to become a beautiful and stylish nursery or bedroom accessory too. Also improving the look of children’s bedrooms are the new designs of chalkboards Fiesta Crafts is adding: Princess and pirate designs join its range of themed chalkboards from June next year.

Children can bring their chalkboards to life with this fun wall decoration which they can use to write notes, draw pictures and then wipe it clean when they’re ready to start all over again.

Eduk8 Worldwide Ltd 01434 672336 www.eduk8worldwide.com Eduk8 returns to Nuremberg 2015, having experienced Stan great success in d C0 1-2 2014. The brand had such great interest in the Belly Bump Balls it launched last year that it will be presenting new twin packs – two belly bumps in one box – in both the large and junior versions.

Also launching at Nuremberg is the brand’s exclusive Super Star Theatre. Suitable for ages three and above, it comes complete with dressing room, back stage entrance, ticket booth, show time clock, refreshment stand, wipe off marquee and 20 accessories. And, it converts into a puppet theatre! Made from durable polyester fabric with a connectable easy-to-assemble sturdy fibreglass frame, the large theatre measures L99cm x W142cm x H152cm, yet fits into a very compact carrying case just 23” x 13” x 5”. Eduk8 also has its ‘hands-on’ science range for inquisitive minds, as well as a great range of exclusive wooden toys including its new Puzzle Box.

Hall 1 2

Going underground for top toys UNDERGROUND TOYS

CHILL IN STYLE

JNH 0161 737 1881 www.chelfordltd.com

Hal l5 St

and D16

Over the past year, JNH has made a name for itself in the children’s furniture sector with its Disney licensed lines. The company’s quality products, with eye-catching designs in vibrant colours, have taken the market by storm, necessitating new measures to meet consumer demand.

JNH’s best selling products are the Flip Out Foam Sofa. The sofa is available in a range of licenses, the most popular of which is Frozen, followed in closed succession by Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Disney Princess and Doc McStuffins.

The company is looking forward to a very busy show at Nuremberg and will be launching a wide range of new indoor and outdoor products capturing the imagination of children worldwide. The products, which are suitable for bedrooms, playrooms and the outdoors are easy to clean, made with lasting and good quality materials, and are all designed with children’s safety and enjoyment in mind.

JNH has added a number of hot new licenses to its portfolio, which will be available to see at Nuremberg Toy Fair, Hall 5 stand D16.

36

01708 372727 www.underground-toys.com

Hall 10

Stan d A3

Underground Toys holds the rights for an impressive portfolio of mega-brands including Star Wars, Doctor Who, Marvel, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, WWE, Ghostbusters and many more. They will be exhibiting some classic and new products from existing ranges as well as showcasing some brand new items for 2015.

New ranges on show at Underground’s booth include: Star Wars: Talking Plush range including brand new “Roar & Rage Chewbacca” and “Lightsaber Battle Yoda” – featuring plush with lights, sound and movement! Just in time for the hype of the new movie The Force Awakens out in December 2015.

POP! Vinyl is a hugely popular, stylised collectible figures from more properties than you can think of – from Adventure Time to Frozen, Game of Thrones to WWE, DC to Marvel, My Little Pony to Star Wars.

Next is Marvel: The Avengers: Age of Ultron talking plush range in a variety of characters and sizes.

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Steaming ahead TOY STATE

2 Hall 1 1-2 d C0 Stan

www.toystate.com Over the past 30+ years Toy State has built a global reputation of quality and innovation in the toy aisle, with products that can be found in all major channels of distribution. Through partnerships with high-proďŹ le licensed brands like Hot Wheels, Caterpillar and James Bond 007, as well asacquisitions, such as Nikko, we are in a superb position to take a leadership role in multiple toy categories.

Founded in 1958, Nikko manufactures a robust portfolio of high-quality R/C toys, from custom vehicles, boats and ďŹ&#x201A;ying items to its strong array of pre-school R/C toys. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the last 30 years, we have grown Toy State into a global player through a relentless focus on quality and innovation,â&#x20AC;? said Simon Cheng, Toy Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CEO and founder. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nikkoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own long history of quality and innovation make it a compelling ďŹ t to join the Toy State family."

Some highlights of our product range include: - Nikko â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Actionâ&#x20AC;? item : VaporizR 2, High Jump RC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; each having their unique feature sets.

- Nikko Evolution Range: Bringing semi-hobby grade R/C performance to the masses. This segment is being continuously improved with even better specs and popular new licenses.

- Nikko Street Cars: Licensed race & rally cars. Bestsellers for more than a decade!

- Nikko â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Entertainmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Line: For 2015, Nikko has an exciting rollout of product (lights & sound and R/C) under the James Bond 007 brand to coincide with the release of the latest ďŹ lm in the Bond franchise, SPECTRE. Additionally, they will continue with Transformers, developing new items based on the new animated series 'Robots in Disguise'.

Steaming ahead PLUM PRODUCTS 0344 880 5301 www.plumproducts.com Plum returns to Nuremberg 2015 with a number of new products in the outdoor and indoor role-play sectors. Its latest innovation is the Steam Range, a collection of wooden role-play 8 Hall 08 kitchens. Watch as steam rises dA to take cooking role-play to Stan the next level! The Interactive Kitchen range, supported with a TV and digital PR campaign, will also be on display. Plum will be showing hero lines from its outdoor range, including trampolines and wooden swing sets and will be running exclusive show offers throughout the week.

JANUARY 2015

1(: %OXHWRRWK HQDEOHG %OXH %RW (/

The best of play TOMY 02087227300 www.tomy.com

Hal l1

Sta 2.2 nd 11

There will be some great new additions to the Toy and Bath range for 2015. Tots of all ages will have endless roleplay fun with the Foam Cone Factory. An innovative bath toy that lets children play at making bubble-bath â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ice-creamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cones. For daytime play, the new Sort n Pop Farmyard Friends provides creative sorting fun. See this and lots more new ranges and products. Pop by the TOMY stand.

37

PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Leaping forward into 2015 LEAPFROG 01895202840 www.leapfrog.com

F

Hal l Sta 12.2 nd P 19

ollowing a ground-breaking 2014 and looking ahead to its 20th anniversary year, LeapFrog, is set to make its mark at the 2015 Nuremberg Toy Fair with the unveiling of its permanent stand in.

The brand new stand at the International Toy Fair cements LeapFrog’s place amongst fellow world-leading brands with an all year round showcase of its latest pioneering innovations and learning solutions.

2014 saw two new additions to LeapFrog’s award winning line of LeapPad tablets, as well as a bold move into exciting new territories with the launch of LeapBand, the first wearable kids activity tracker, and LeapTV, the first video games console designed specifically for young children.

Tony Hicks, Chief International Officer at LeapFrog, adds:

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“Since our inception 20 years ago, we’ve been hard at work creating entirely new ways to learn - and inspiring millions of kids - by delivering on our brand promise of ‘Pure Learning Fun’. We have a proven track record of reinvigorating our sector with groundbreaking new products and 2015 is set to celebrate our trademark blend of education and entertainment.”

Tony adds: “LeapFrog’s mission is to help children achieve their potential by providing the best educational entertainment experiences. In parallel to growing our current international businesses we will continue to identify new international market opportunities which will extend the reach of this mission and meet international demand for our world class entertaining products and educator approved content.”

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PREVIEW

NUREMBERG TOY FAIR

Sweet tweet toys

Silverlit 01923606147 www.silverlit.com

W

ith the success of its DigiBirds range in 2014, it is full steam ahead for Silverlit as it launches new additions to the range. DigiFriends are here, a brand new line which is part of the greater Digi world – a new concept that links all Digi products and has now become a category in its own right for Silverlit. The concept is that every DigiFriend can and will interact with every other available DigiFriend. This gives consumers the confidence to buy into the range with the knowledge that each new Digi product they pick up is compatible with their current collection. It’s a never-ending dream for collectors!

Early in the year the limited edition DigiChicks will launch. These cute, adorable, chirping, tweeting chicks are set to be available for Easter, backed with a strong TV campaign. DigiBirds collection 2 and 3 will follow later in the year, available in all-new colours with new body and head designs. These new collections will be backed with a mid-year TV campaign. Later in the year, DigiPenguins will launch into the market as the perfect autumn/winter package, again backed by a major TV campaign. Three accessories will be added to the range, presented at Nuremberg for the first time.

Innovation will continue in Silverlit’s flying and RC ranges with a great range of mini vehicles. This year the key is 'small is beautiful'. The company received the Guinness Book of Records’ award for the world’s smallest helicopter, but they will have to break their own record as they have designed an even smaller one!

A mini sub has also been designed, capable of diving in shallow water just like the real thing and capable of sending back real-time pictures to the viewing screen on the controller. It’s a must-have item.

Silverlit does not rest on its laurels and always wants to be the leader in this category.

Ha Stan ll 6 d C10

40

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Licence a-go-go Golden Bear

Hall 5

C15 Stand

01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Golden Bear has lots of new ranges to showcase at Nuremberg 2015. Amongst the range is Go MINI, which is a Bash`N’ Spin Radio Controlled Bulldog. The trigger on the fun controller activates the Radio Controlled Bulldog to drive forwards, then the large “Bash” button makes the vehicle perform super-cool donut spins.

New to the My First JCB collection for 2015 is the “Build & Go Digger”. For children as young as 2, use the chunky screwdriver to attach the super-sized wheels and front scoop to the cab over and over again!

The monsterific collection Henry Hugglemonster will continue into 2015, including award-winning Henry Hugglemonster Roar Back and HuggleHouse Playset alongside plush collectables and jumbo talking character plush.

The Peppa Pig range continues and has been

refreshed for 2015 to include new Glitter Mini Sketchy Fun, Wooden Glitter Dominoes and Peppa Pig & Friends Felt Set. Also new is the Peppa Steppa Playmat, an interactive floor playmat.

Golden Bear introduces a raft of new lines, including a pre-school magic set designed by Sooty’s owner. Re-entering the Nursery sector for 2015, the My First Forever Friends collection features beautiful soft-to-touch fabrics, gentle lullabies and soothing lights. The In the Night Garden Ninky Nonk Musical Activity Train range has been extended to include further interactive products and play elements. The adorable range of plush and plastic toys from Woolly & Tig will continue into 2015, while there are additions to Twirlywoos and Hey Duggee ranges.

Test a publisher’s statement of circulation.

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Our ABC Certificate provides accurate, independently verified circulation figures, giving you confidence in your advertising investment.

If you want to reach 5,130* total average net circulation, then call Ryan Horwood on 01442 289945 or email *. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 2013 to 30th June 2014

For more information visit www.abc.org.uk or email info@abc.org.uk

JANUARY 2015

41

SPONSORED FEATURE

TNP INSIGHT - INSIDE TOY STATE

Hall 12.2/P-03 and Hall 7A/A-169

State of the Union For 30 years, Toy State has been an innovator and industry leader in the manufacture of licensed and highly stylised lights & sound, and radio controlled vehicles. Earlier this year, Toy State acquired Nikko and is expanding and exploring more opportunities in the UK to reach consumers, buyers and retailers.

We chat with Andrew Friess General Manager of US Operations and Senior Vice President of Global Marketing to gain some insight into the company and its vision Toy State is a well-loved and highly regarded company in RC – can you give us an insight in its positioning globally?

And what about in the UK? Thanks to the efforts of our strong and well-rounded UK sales team, led by UK Sales Director, Michael Angel, Toy State supplies every major retailer with our toys. Our aim is to be a ‘one-stop supplier’ for vehicles and innovative lights & sound products.

Over the past 30 plus years Toy State has built a global reputation of quality and innovation in the toy aisle, with products that can be found in all major channels of distribution. While our roots were in the lights & sound vehicle category, we’ve been aggressively pursuing new opportunities that allow us to use our expertise to increase our retail footprint. Through partnerships with high-profile licensed brands like Hot Wheels, Caterpillar and James Bond 007, as well as acquisitions, such as Nikko, we are now much better positioned to take a leadership role in multiple toy categories.

Toy State recently acquired Nikko - can you tell us how that came about and why it was an important acquisition?

Andrew Friess, GM of US Operations and Senior Vice President of Global Marketing

Arne Vissers, VP of International Sales

With our desire to expand beyond traditional lights & sound vehicle products, Toy State has been making significant investments in the RC category for many years. With RC identified as a preferred area for expansion, several acquisition targets were evaluated that would aid with increasing the company profile in this key product category. When the opportunity to acquire a brand with the global history of quality and innovation that Nikko possesses was available, it was the perfect fit for Toy State to further a leadership position in the RC category. Adding offices in Europe (Breda, The Netherlands) and Japan through the acquisition was another great benefit of this move, as it extended Toy State’s global presence even further.

What do your customers expect from Toy State?

First and foremost, Toy State prides itself on delivering great service and pricing to our retail customers.

When it comes to our product, Toy State takes great pride in holding itself to the highest standards for quality, innovation and safety. Nikko shares the same view, which was another reason the acquisition was such a great fit. When buying our products, retailers can feel confident that they are getting

42

Turbo Panther™‹ X2

products that will push the limits of fun and creativity, but that will also deliver excellent profit levels to the account. We strive to achieve those ‘wow!’ moments with the innovation we inject into our toys, bringing products to buyers and consumers that they never thought possible. “Need a car that drives on water? Sure thing, the VaporizR 2 can do that!”. It’s this type of standard that we set for ourselves and our products.

CAT Job Site Machines ™

And what about the consumer what is important to them when buying Toy State?

The consumer wants to make sure that they are getting a fun, safe product for a great price! With the many years of leadership we’ve had in the toy industry, between Toy State and Nikko products, we’ve done an excellent job of building high expectations from consumers about what they have come to expect from our toys. They know that when buying a Toy State/Nikko product, they will get a high performance, safe product that will stretch the limits of their imagination and provide hours of great fun and entertainment. We build toys

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Hot Wheels Hyper Racer

and brands that continue to satisfy consumers and create loyalty, bringing them back for more in the future. Consumers trust Toy State products, and this is also a great asset for the retail partners that carry our goods.

Does that have an impact on your brand positioning?

Absolutely! With all Toy State and Nikko products, we stress quality, safety and innovation.

We want our customers and consumers to see how much effort we put into our toys to meet and exceed their expectations. We know how important it is for a toy to work every time, and for a parent to trust our brands, so we put a major emphasis on quality and safety. We will continue to invest strongly in advertising and promotion to communicate our brand messages. Toy State has a strong history for supporting its brands with multiple levels of media. In 2015, in addition to the continuing worldwide support of existing Toy State brands, we’ll be spending at a level more that 20-times the budget of Nikko’s 2014 promotional investment.

And what about your relationships with retailer?

It’s been 12 years since Toy State products were first introduced to the UK and Ireland, and we’ve built excellent retail partnerships during that time. We treat our retail relationships with the

utmost respect. A large part of keeping and earning that respect is working closely with retail partners to craft programmes that are right for their needs. Toy State knows that we can make great product with the lowest defective rates in the category. However product only truly becomes great when there are strong sales to support the items. Buyers have been very good to Toy State in the UK, and throughout the EMEA region.

We work very hard to justify that support through bringing them strong product, with on-time shipments and promotion plans keep the product moving strongly all throughout the year.

What have been the pivotal moments in the lives of the brand and products – the real stand out ones?

Seeing our ‘homegrown’ Road Rippers brand grow into a globallydistributed leader in lights & sound vehicles has been a very gratifying accomplishment. Equally as exciting has been being part of the growth of our licensing program that’s come from the success of Road Rippers. With product lines featuring iconic global licensed brands such as Hot Wheels, Caterpillar and James Bond 007, as well as longstanding partnerships with the most popular automakers worldwide, Toy State brings something for everyone, everywhere to enjoy!

Michael Angel, UK Sales Director

And now we are in 2015, what is on the horizon for Toy State here in the UK and Ireland?

Simon Cheng, CEO and Founder

In addition to the Toy State range of Nikko RC products, the biggest ‘new news’ for UK and Ireland this year is that we are now able to offer our strong line of Hot Wheels lights & sound vehicles. Adding Nikko, a line with 50+ years of quality and success, along with Hot Wheels, the number one name in boys toys, to the strength of the existing Toy State product line is a recipe of success for all involved.

Tell us about the core values that everyone at Toy State and therefore Nikko shares?

The State of Imagination! We are driven by the ability to develop products that are innovative, smart and fun! We strive to be the leading toy manufacturer and bring smiles to children, families and buyers worldwide.

And what about your relationships with retailers, how briefed and ‘close’ to Toy State/Nikko products are they? It is very important for Toy State to build and maintain strong relationships with retailers. They are, in the end, our first customer and we need to get them excited about our products or they will never make it to the shelf, let alone to a child’s home and heart.

What have been the successes enjoyed by Nikko in the UK in 2014? Nikko RC has seen great success in the UK with VaporizR, Nano VaporizR and our Transformers 4 range. All of these items have been the main focus of our 2014 marketing (TV) campaign.

JANUARY 2015

43

SPONSORED FEATURE

James Bond 007™ Q-Branch

TNP INSIGHT - INSIDE TOY STATE

The Toy State Milestones

Are you optimistic about 2015?

•1984: Toy State was founded by Simon Cheng •1999: Toy State opens US office •2002: Toy State products sold in UK and Ireland •2002: Toy State secures rights to develop Caterpillar-branded products •2010: Toy State secures rights to develop James Bond-branded products •2013: Toy State secures the rights to sell Hot Wheels-branded products in EMEA •2014: Toy State acquired Nikko and expands global presence to include Europe and Japan office

In a word... yes! We are very excited to enter 2015 with our first year of offering Nikko products to complement the full portfolio of strong brands and products that Toy State is known for. Having our Hot Wheels lights & sound range available for EMEA is another source of optimism for a strong 2015. Retail feedback on our product lines has been very strong and we’re looking forward to watching consumers enjoy the many new and innovative products that will be on the shelf.

What initiatives do you have from a retail perspective for the year ahead?

We will be significantly increasing the investment in our branded promotional efforts this year. EMEA has been identified as a key growth region for Toy State in 2015 and beyond, and we’ll be increasing marketing investment to support this objective.

How are you improving the traction and brand recognition with the consumer?

In addition to the marketing and advertising efforts mentioned, we’ve invested heavily in ‘rebranding’ Radio Control Autobot Optimus Prime® our flagship Nikko and Road Rippers brands. This includes a full logo redesign, along with efforts to refresh packaging that have been extremely well-received by buyers. We are excited to see the consumer reaction when the product hits shelves in 2015! In additon, we’re increasing the visibility of the Toy State brand in advertising and packaging efforts to help consumers better connect with us and improve our corporate brand recognition.

Which five key products are you confident will keep retailers and consumers coming back?

Many individual items will lead to our success, but we prefer to speak in terms of product range, for example: •Nikko “Special Action” items like the VaporizR 2, High Jump RC and more each have their unique feature sets.

•Nikko Evolution Range: Brings semi-hobby grade RC performance to the masses. This segment is being continuously improved with even better specs and popular new licenses.

•Nikko Street Cars: Licensed race and rally cars. Best sellers for more than a decade!

•Nikko ‘Entertainment’ Line: For 2015, we have an exciting rollout of product - lights & sound and RC - under the James Bond 007 brand to coincide with the release of the latest film in the Bond franchise, SPECTRE. Additionally, we will continue with Transformers, developing new items based on the new animated series ‘Robots in Disguise’.

With the strength of the Nikko brand, and the expertise of Toy State’s design, development and manufacturing teams, the future of Nikko has never been brighter!

What is different about Toy State?

A big advantage Toy State has, as compared to our competition, is that Toy State owns and operates our own manufacturing and product development facilities. All products

are handled in-house from concept to production by Toy State employees in Toy State facilities. We are fortunate to have the strongest product design team in the industry! Led by John Arndt, our SVP of Product Development, our brand and product development teams are consistently increasing the level of innovation in our toys. Having the ability to do all development and manufacturing functions in-house also provides advantages that improve not only the quality of our final product, but also drives efficiencies in development and production. This allows Toy State to offer more robust play feature features than our comeptition, with higher levels of innovation and quality, while maintaining affordable prices. This would not be possible working through a third-party manufacturing partner. Beginning to manufacture Nikko product within Toy State facilities will be another exciting development for 2015!

John Arndt Senior VP of Global Product Development

What are your aims for Toy State in 2015 and beyond?

Continue to embody ‘The State of Imagination’, bringing new and innovative products to market. Our work is just beginning to bring Nikko back to a worldwide leadership position in the RC category, and we can’t wait for people to see the great RC product that’s currently in our pipeline for this outstanding brand! Toy State has been growing at a rapid rate over the past few years, and it’s a trend that we’re committed to continuing. Further international distribution gains and the addition of key new licensing partnerships will help us continue to fortify the existing Toy State business as well as opening new doors to future growth.

Visit the Toy State/Nikko team at Nuremberg Spielwarenmesse, Hall 12.2/P-03 and Hall 7A/A-169

Road Rippers Street Beatz™

44

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TOYS@SPRING FAIR

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Leader The Team Director

Mark Naish Mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Group Editor

Mirella Cestaro mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor

Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

Writer

p62

Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

Group Advertising Manager

Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

W

elcome to your indispensable guide to the Spring Fair! I am really pleased to welcome readers of Gifts Today to this special show guide.

I always very much look forward to my trip to Birmingham; the show is so huge and so wide-ranging that the Pg 6 buzz and verve really is second to none.

I feel that because it has such scope, there are lots of gems and hidden treasures one can uncover which could really help to add to your store and of course create a vital point of difference between you and your competitors, be they majors, multiples or even online.

And for me it is really important to look at the possibility of a cross-category offering; which is the very reason why this supplement is posted to our valued readers of Toys ‘n’ Playthings and Gifts Today – a smattering of both in your store could improve your revenue streams and your customer retention.

In fact, there is an argument to say why stop at Toys and Gifts? Is there a place in your shop for greetings cards and some back to school items too? All these options are worth considering and evaluating properly when at Spring Fair.

Contents

A company that offers true crosscategory opportunities is Icon Live.

We have partnered with them to Pg bring you this Spring Fair Supplement, and I’m sure you will agree with me – judging by this fantastic cover, I con Live certainly have a lot to offer!

Turn to page 4 to learn more about the amazing and very beautiful (and occasionally quirky) licensed products.

In fact, Icon Live are hot on licensed products and have some great hits on their hands, so definitely check them out, in the supplement and at the show, to get a handle on what the trends are for the coming year to 18 months.

All that remains to be said from me is, enjoy this guide and I look forward to see you at the NEC.

Pg 30

Pg 6

3 Leader – with Mirella Anstey

4 Icon of our times – Lema Publishing Ltd 1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2UB Telephone: +44 (0) 1442 289930

www.toysnplaythings.co.uk www.gifts-today.com The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher.

5

an overview of Icon Live’s top licences and lines for 2015

6 Spring Fair preview – an introduction of what to expect at the show

8 Spring Fair Profiles – a summary from exhibitors about themselves and their showstopping products

30 Retail chat – we talk to some retailers and buyers from the toys and gifts categories to find out what they’re expecting from Spring Fair 2015

INSIDE ICON

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the traile hett. Hele March 2015 Cate Blanc laudits and p g e in g rr d. Not least u ta h S d . movie garnere h anticipate y c u d ate a m e lr is a ie s ha as the ultim e mov the movie onsidered viewed. Th c ly is ’s h y it ig e h n se is d u n D eca st of received a cast and b on the cre of f its stellar se it rides u a esses and c c e n b ri o P because o ls y a e t n u is b D , , le – rs iryta e First main drive princess fa ve, Sofia th have three ls inspired rincess wa ill ir P w l g s r fu e e ss lin ld e o e c , iv L lla suc n re o e d Ic Icon Live ted Cin zen. The ent is that ssic anima m la p course Fro c . lo g e n v ri e d tu ts category irls fea xciting ries and gif Younger g . But the e o ie ss v e o n c m c io a n sh o ’s acti tic fa omen by the live and drama e to the w of elegant g the rang e in g n n e d ra a ! w d ro e isse is b ed a n not to be m as produc ry, which is Icon Live h lle e w je n casio forward oc

FROZEN – DON’T LET IT GO! Frozen was the hit of 2014, every kind of business sold lots of icy-inspired products. Icon Live’s Frozen range was a blockbuster and the company’s 2015 range is just as impressive and is sure to be a big hit with the release of Frozen Fever – the new short animation which will be shown before every screening of the new Disney Cinderella movie from March. The world’s number one girl’s brand has influenced yet more beautiful products from Icon Live and the range is set to grow and expand well into 2015 with accessories from the beautiful ‘Nordic Summer’ style guide, along with fun ‘Olaf in summer’ collection. ‘Collect & Connect’ silicone charm bracelets are a great pocket money item with 10 different charms to collect and each bracelet can connect to another creating bracelet wraps or necklaces.

Magical colour changing necklaces are also a new addition to the range.

BREAKING NEW GROUND Breaking Bad has been the TV event of recent times, with record numbers of viewers tuning in to catch up with Walter White and co.

The momentum has shown no signs of slowing down and now with the imminent premier of spin-off series, Better Call Saul, the property is set to hit new highs.

Icon Live has a wonderful line of men’s gifts and novelty products such as cufflinks, bottle openers and men’s jewellery that are sure to capture the imagination of consumer who love this cult show up and down the land.

GET EMOTIONAL WITH INSIDE OUT Shhhhhhh.................we e want to tell you a secret!!! cret!!!

Whilst most of the excitement and attention in the licensing world for 2015 is focused around Frozen, Minions, Marvel and Star Wars, we think there is a hidden gem that people need to get on their radar now. Disney Pixar is a powerhouse and this year they are offering the movie-going public Inside Out – a movie set inside the mind of an 11-year-old girl struggling with her emotions. This comedy has already set the internet alight with the latest trailer seeing 10 million hits in its first week. This is set to be the feel-good movie of the year and could take everybody by surprise. The good news is that the Icon Live team are on it and will be supporting the launch of the film with a cute range of girls jewellery and hair accessories.

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Fair play!

This year’s Spring Fair is bound to delight buyers and retailers from the toys and gifts categories alike. Create a point of difference between you and your competitors by heading to the show and taking in the exciting, invigorating range of products...

Spring Fair 2015 1-5 February 2015 NEC Birmingham www.springfair.com

S

pring Fair will welcome 10 percent more exhibitors in 2015 than last year; fantastic news for retailers and buyers who will be on the hunt for fresh product when the show returns 1-5 February, 2015.

The show will play host to 3,000 exhibitors in total, 400 of which are new for 2015. With 300,000 new products launching across 14 different market sectors, it’s a treasure trove for buyers looking for the next big thing.

For toy retailers, Hall 3 is where you’ll find the toys, kid’s gifts and party dress-up. Around 170 exhibitors are forecasted to form this section of the show when

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it opens its doors in and more IR IS February, A F than a third of those G N SPRI TANT exhibitors – 60 to be R MPO – are brand new, VERY I WE USE THE exact making their Spring .

TO US TO KICKFair debut. With so SHOW THE YEAR much exciting product on offer, Hall 3 really is START the place to be for toy retailers.

Sally Westerman, Manager of Toys n Things, an independent toy shop in Cardiff, says the show is perfect for those looking to refresh their offering. “Spring Fair gives us an ideal opportunity to meet new suppliers, so we can move forward with adding to our extensive existing range,” she says.

Though primarily a toy retailer, Toys n Things draws on products from other sectors to boost its margins. “We do carry crosscategory products in our range and this is extremely important to us as a company,” she adds. “For

“

example, fancy dress provides us with much needed margin.”

The cross-category nature of the show is a big draw for visitors like Sally. For toy retailers, the pairing with the party industry in Hall 3 means whether its toys from well-known brands, quirky and unique trinkets, or the latest in licensed dress-up and partyware, there’s something to expand any retailers’ offering.

Partyware and dress-up are fast becoming the go-to products for retailers looking to entice new customers. With Frozen licensed costumes a best-seller for Disney, and the World Book Day event, which has kids dress-up as their favourite characters, growing in popularity, there are plenty of new opportunities here.

Rubie’s, Amscan and Qualatex – some of the leading names in the party industry – will all be exhibiting at Spring Fair.

Everything from costumes to

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balloons can be found on their stands, so it’s the perfect way for any toy or gift retailer to dip their toe in the party pool.

For the curious, some of the costumes and balloons can be seen at their best on the Party Show stage in Hall 3, with catwalk shows and balloon demonstrations throughout each day of the show. It’s a great way to see the costumes in motion and find out exactly how balloons and other party decorations can add a lift to retailers.

Of course, with 14 different market sectors represented, Spring Fair is the perfect place for cross-category buying and finding something new. In Hall 5, 518 gift suppliers will be exhibiting their latest wares.

Returning exhibitors include some of the biggest names in gifting, including Enesco, Joe Davies, Price’s Candles, Xystos and Ashleigh and Burwood.

For many retailers, the gift hall at Spring Fair is the first opportunity to see brand new product, and the perfect place to get early buying plans and notes jotted down for the year ahead. Darren Clift, Group Giftware Buyer at Tates Garden Centres is one such visitor.

“Spring Fair is very important to us. We use the show to kick-start the year, looking for new products for our giftware department, and also taking a chance to update ranges with existing suppliers,” says Darren. “We also spend a day getting a good overview of all the Christmas offering

ready for the buying season later in the month.”

The 300,000 new products are what draw the crowds New for Spring Fair 2015 is The New Product Pitch. If of buyers and retailers, but you have a new product that you’re passionate about Spring Fair has even more to and think consumers can’t live without it, you could pitch offer to inspire visitors from it to a panel of experts – as long as you can do it in 60 every part of the supply chain. seconds or less! It’s the ideal opportunity to get your New for 2015 is the Retail product in front of influential retail figureheads who Shop brand, an evolution judge the pitches, as well as expose your product to an of the popular e-commerce audience of buyers and gain video footage of the pitch zones from past Spring and to use in your own future promotion. If you already have Autumn Fairs. Exhibitors in the a successful product which you think would translate to Retail Shop located in Hall 4 sales in other territories, you could enter The UK Pitches will offer retailers a multitude to the world for an export-focused angle. If you’re of products, tools and services interested, email ruby.mcelligott@i2ieventsgroup.com. that are essential to successful multi-channel retailing. Visitors can find everything leaders will present their ideas on from in-store and online some of the best opportunities solutions to logistics in retail, from effective branding R I A F G and fulfilment services, N I and merchandising techniques to R SP EAL D I marketing platforms, N boosting sales through specialised A US payment providers and marketing techniques.

GIVES TUNITY TO packaging.

So, whether you’re after the POR P O W If that wasn’t E N next big thing, inspiration to MEET IERS enough, the UK Trade expand your product offering, or & Investment (UKTI) SUPPL seek advice on how your product will be on hand to could thrive in new markets, share more information Spring Fair has you covered! about its services to help UK companies expand into new markets. UKTI seminars will discuss how UK companies can develop successful export strategies, with financial support, market knowledge and advice from its team of experts.

Plus, located in the contemporary gift section in Hall 6, visitors will find a vast presentation of designled products in the Trends Theatre. Here the World Global Style Network will provide insight into key seasonal trends, and other industry

Pitch perfect!

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

One-stop-shop for parties AMSCAN 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk

Hall 3 Stand R20-S 21 S20-T & 21

Amscan will exhibit with an impressive 400m2 stand featuring some 1,500 new products. Covering key occasions and themes across the party, balloon and fancy dress categories, Amscan’s stand is a convenient one-stopshop for retailers. A variety of more than 30 key licensed party and balloon ranges will be on display, from leading licensors such as Disney, Nickelodeon, Hasbro and Mattel. Also on display will be the adorable new ew First Birthday ranges and accessories, combining contemporary designs with traditional pink and blue key colour themes.

New for kids’ parties, Amscan will showcase animal-themed ranges, including an on-trend Owl design. There will also be a new Sweet Sixteenth nth range of tableware and decorations, as well as new milestone ilestone party accessories. Look out for the extended costume stume collection for kids, teens and adults - exciting new w costumes for key themes including pirates, story book characters, ters, history, professions and Halloween. Finally, there will be the chance hance to learn how to create stunning displays for your store with Balloon demonstrations held by Amscan’s expert Balloon Decorator, Chris Horne. Two seminars will be held each day; one will focus on the new and extended range of Decorator latex balloons, the e other on creating stunning designs with a variety of balloon formats for different occasions.

Celebrating 30 playful years BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 www.bigjigstoys.com

3 Hall d Stan H01

Celebrating 30 years of ‘Creating Perfect Playrooms’, toy manufacturer, distributor and wholesaler, Bigjigs Toys, will introduce three new additions to its Jigsaw Puzzle range, which was the first line of products that Bigjigs entered the toys and gifts arena with back in the 1980s. Each of the new colourful Arched Puzzles is split into three levels, allowing youngsters to develop their dexterity and problem-solving skills as they build a unique scene with each layer. The puzzle designs portray popular themes, including dinosaurs, the home and farm animals. Two new Stacking Puzzles also join the Bigjigs Baby puzzle range, with each displaying four different pictures associated with a Pets or Transport theme, delivering a puzzle-cum-room decoration that can easily be refreshed with a new picture. The Bigjigs Baby Walker, Ball Fall, Farm House Sorter and Stacking Number Tower have all received an invigorating redesign. The Number Tower now features a brighter spectrum of colours, more learning opportunities and shapes with a simpler connecting design.

Bigjigs Rail will also boast new additions: a new Dino Range and Farm Range rail sets, rail accessories and rolling stock, all compatible with existing Bigjigs Rail stock and products from other major wooden rail brands.

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Ravensden Plc Ravensden Farm, Bedford Road, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 0SQ England.

Telephone +44 (0) 1933 356221 Fax + 44 (0) 1933 410108 Email office@ravensden.co.uk www.ravensdenonline.com www.ravensden.co.uk

Spring Fair 2015 Hall 3 Stand P04 / Q05

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Let’s go fly a kite!

BROOKITE

Pass the puzzle CHEATWELL GAMES 0845 22 66 516 www.cheatwell.com

01837 53315 www.brookite.com Brookite will be showcasing new products for 2015 at Spring Fair. The kite range has been enhanced with two Giant Kites - Sunbeam and Skyburst.

These diamond kites are over 1 metre in length Hall 3 and width and come in bright, exciting colourways. They are easy to fly and have Stand long tails that make them look extra H4 special in the sky!

Also on show will be four additions to the Windthings range - a fun Chicken Spinner, an attractive Star Spinner and a Turbo Twister Windsock - all made from quality materials. A new Giant Ground Stake measuring 1.25m long completes the new items in this range.

Another exciting innovative product for Brookite is the Parashoot featuring a clever, new release mechanism. Simply attach the parachute to the releaser and send it up the kite line. The parachute falls to ground and the kite stays in the air. The item is available as a complete kit containing a kite, release mechanism and parachuter, and as a kite accessory suitable for use with any single line kite.

The Venom Skateboards have had a make over for 2015.

The Scorpion and The Stripe designs are now available.

Venom Triple Pad Sets and Helmets complete the range.

3 Hall d n Sta N3 M4/

Cheatwell Games will be presenting a fresh and exciting new range at Spring Fair 2015. Its popular Squeeze Poppers – 90,000 sold in 2014 – will be extended with the gruesomely fun Zombie Boy, complete with exploding brain; the Sock Monkey, a top-seller in the US; and a sweet, squeezy Squirrel. Each popper comes with six soft foam balls and a cool carry net. Also launching is a series of Keyring Poppers, so you can ‘pop’ on-the-go. The fast-selling After Dinner Fun, Festive Fun and Bite Sized Mini Games will be joined by Table Teasers – mini games and puzzle sets – which are perfect as ice breakers or dinner party entertainment; and by Drinking Party Games, a mix of adult games guaranteed to get any social gathering giggling. The popular Plop Trumps will be joined by a new and fun card game, Fart.

There will also be new introductions to puzzles, one of Cheatwell’s strongest areas. The top-selling IQ Busters – mindmangling wooden and wire puzzles – will be bolstered by great new combo packs – Antigravity Puzzles and Brainteasers; the Magna Puzzles will have new images – think Raptors and Leopards; and the 3D Optillusion Tiles Puzzles will round off the range. Finally, new additions to the Built It range of 3D Puzzles will include the awesome T. Rex and Triceratops Dinosaurs.

Puzzle it out!

COILEDSPRING GAMES 020 3301 1160 www.coiledspring.co.uk

Hall 3 Stan d P2

Retail partners looking for new ranges in both the toy and gift arena shouldn’t miss the new collections from Coiledspring Games. There are new images in the bestselling John Deere Puzzle collection – the jigsaws have been a success for Schmidt puzzles and retailers have been asking for new images. The new puzzles include a 100-piece and a 200-piece. Ciro Marchetti’s steam punk-inspired jigsaw images were introduced as new licence for 2014 and have quickly established themselves as a bestselling range with rich jewel colours and quirky mechanical detail. The new image of a circus procession is packed with intricate detail. Brandnew collection from Chris Saunders, Phil Koch and Mark Rattenbury complete the licensed puzzle line up with some classic and iconic images joining the unlicensed puzzle collection. There is new packaging for the Rory’s Story Cubes - mix these three cube additions to the main Rory’s Story Cubes Range; they sit comfortably in the new CDU for an eye-catching and practical display. The Purple Cow range has been a consistently strong line. The pre-packed CDU is compact yet holds a lot of product. Joining the Crazy Scientist and the rest of the range is Mapedia – a striking display of geographical puzzles in quirky round tins. The continued success of Sorgenfresser Worry eaters has encouraged Schmidt to release a tranche of new characters. Wanda joins the classic collection, Flint will be available in the junior collections and there are six new keyring characters. There are options for exclusives on some of the junior characters that will be launching later in 2015.

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BUILDING BETTER BRANDS

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

High-flying fun FLYING GADGETS 0844 209 2626 www.flyinggadgets.com

Hall and 3 St 31 -K J30

Dynamic RC toy specialists Flying Gadgets will reveal exciting new products and showcase its extensive portfolio of cars, copters, drones and more. It will unveil its next wave of ground-breaking new tech toys. A brand-new mid-size quadcopter, the 2.4ghz Gee Quad (available March 2015) boasts an auto level function and comes fully equipped to live-stream video from its HD camera. A great entry-level piece, it is equally suited to those new to drones and more experienced operators. Flying Gadgets is also expanding its fleet of stylish children’s vehicles with the the new Mercedes G55 Ride-On Jeep. This fully licensed 12v battery-powered vehicle with powerful motors can reach a top speed of 7km/h and features a

For the love of learning FIESTA CRAFTS 0208 804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

secure seatbelt and parental remote control for additional safety. Boasting a realistic design with authentic spare wheel, working lights and built-in MP3 connection, this scale replica Mercedes is suitable for children aged 3+. Finally, Flying Gadgets will unveil the King of Scorpion – a radio-controlled gas-powered power boat with pistol transmitter. A new copper-plated flex shaft and shaft sleeve deliver superior transmission, while the enhanced carburettor offers sharp throttle control.

It features a new waterproof radio box with perfect water seal and easy access to ensure minimised risk of water damage. It also has an optimised propeller offering significant higher speed, yet the clever clutch lets the boat be idle safely. Made from high-quality aluminium alloy, the rudder by CNC machine offers sharp handling and durability, while the hull itself is a high-quality, pre-painted, fibreglass composite.

Hall 3 Stan d J18

Fiesta Crafts has been designing and manufacturing unique toys and gifts for children since 1990, with many offering a direct educational value. New for 2015 is the magnetic Countdown Calendar, which helps children count down how many ‘sleeps’ to a specific event. They slide the monkey down the helter-skelter a day at a time until it eventually reaches the bottom. It’s also a fun calendar; children can learn how to put the months in sequence, update the day of the week and the date daily, and monitor the weather, updating the chart as it changes. Also new is the Tell the Time magnetic teaching clock, which teaches in both 12 and 24 hour format and comes with a range of activity pieces children can place on the chart to help them associate certain times with certain activities. It has rotating hands and comes complete with 46 magnetic numbers and descriptions so children can write out the corresponding time. Football-mad boys will love the extra large magnetic Football Table, a fun way of tracking the position of football teams from League 2 up to the Premiership. Plotting each team’s progress is made easy thanks to 125 magnetic pieces, each of which features a team name and can be moved as the season progresses.Children are encouraged from an early age to learn a second language and with a new magnetic toy, learning Spanish has never been easier. Each magnetic tile features an English word and picture on one side and the equivalent Spanish word on the other. It’s a great visual way to help children learn the basics. Finally, the new extra-large magnetic Star Chart will make recognising, rewarding and promoting good behaviours smooth. Designed to encourage children to do as they are asked, this chart allows parents/carers to set tasks and write in a target for how many stars need to be earned in the week. Progress can be tracked on the points ‘ladder’ until they reach the target and receive their reward.

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Frightfully fun!

A pocketful of plenty!

PREMIER HALLOWEEN

01253 778888 www.htigroup.co.uk

01423 324800 premhall@premierdec.com

Hall 3 Stan d C2 & D5

Following a most successful 2014,Premier Halloween are really looking forward to another fantastic 2015 Season, with their now famous Dungeon Collection which has been extended.

Their customers can expect many new ideas to help increase their profits for the coming year. Exciting new Decorations, Trick or Treat bags and following a huge demand the company have managed to add to their range some fantastic outdoor light sets, which will certainly light up all their customers’ Halloween sales.

Like their customers Premier Halloween are looking forward to 31st October 2015, as this year it falls on a Saturday, therefore creating those extra sales for you. The company have strengthened their Customer Service Support team, but still need customers to order early to ensure on-time deliveries.

Quality Control continues to be of prime importance to the company and they will continue to adhere to the latest testing requirements to maintain standards.

Already mentioned their now famous Dungeon Collection has been extended and there are many new idea’s for retailers to utilise in store. Added to the new decorations and trick or treat bags are some great new outdoor lighting products.

As always Premier pride themselves with an unsurpassed Quality Control system which sadly others seem to bypass at times!

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HTI

Hall 3 Stand 7 N6-P

The UK’s largest privately owned toy company, HTI, returns to Spring Fair with an extensive selection of pocket money toy ranges, including popular licences such as Disney Frozen, Peppa Pig, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse, as well as its own in-house brands ranging from Teamsterz vehicles, Jokes & Gags, Razzle Dazzle and My Princess girls’ gifts to FunSport outdoor toys, Pirates, Knights, Zombies and Groovy Tunes music. All pocket money toy ranges feature fully branded and merchandised packaging and CDUs. The company also offers toys across key categories of wheeled, role-play, vehicles, track sets and dolls’ prams/pushchairs with the biggest children’s’ licences such as Disney Frozen, Despicable Me, My Little Pony, Tonka, Peppa Pig, Hello Kitty, Disney, Barbie, JCB, Silver Cross, Mamas & Papas and more. HTI provides key lines and some fantastic new opportunities with LEGO, Fantasma Magic, Nerf, Disney soft lines, Fashion Angels, PlayDoh and Hexbug. In the run-up to Spring Fair, Graham Morley, HTI Field Sales Manager, says: “The HTI team is really looking forward to another successful Spring Fair show, forging new business relationships, as well as catching up with existing customers. The breadth of range for 2015 is the best yet, with some of the hottest brand licences and key toy lines covering all major price points, visitors should prepare to be wowed!”

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the worldwide leader in multi-level logic games

THE TOY FAIR 2015

TOY FAIR NĂ&#x153;RNBERG 2015

SPRING FAIR 2015

20.01.2015 - 22.01.2015

28.01.2015 - 02.02.2015

01.02.2015 - 05.02.2015

THE GALLERY - STAND 410

HALL 3A - STAND H05

HALL 3 - STAND 3D07

uk@smart.be

www.smartgames.eu

www.smartmax.eu

TM

01903 885669

the award winning pre-school construction system

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Minion mania H. GROSSMAN 0141 613 2525 www.ozbozz.co.uk

Hall 3 Stand 5 F4-G

Minions are set to be big business in 2015. Everyone loves the Minions from Despicable Me and with their own movie coming out this year, they are guaranteed to be hot property. A whole range of Minion licensed products will be on show at Spring Fair, including the Despicable Me Sand Shaper Set, which allows kids to use Minion moulds to create their own characters out of sand. It also comes with accessories to personalise their Minions. Six different moulds will keep the kids happy on the beach or in the garden. New outdoor ranges will be launched, as well as additions to the ever-popular Megasaurs range, and a new range of farm animals specially crafted for little hands.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane?

FLYING TOYS 01702 295110 www.flyingtoys.com

Hall 3 Stand A3

At Spring Fair 2015, UK distributors Flying Toys will showcase introductions for 2015.

Following the phenomenal success of the Parrot AR.Drone 2.0, plus the remarkable MiniDrones Rolling Spider and Jumping Sumo, the Flying Toys team will demonstrate the new Bebop Drone. The ultimate flying camera, the Bebop Drone is a high-tech leisure quadricopter, offering all the features of a professional one. Equipped with a powerful 14-megapixel fisheye camera, it takes video and pictures in a 180° field with remarkable image quality. Endowed with the fully digital technology of 3-axis image stabilisation, it captures perfect 1080p HD video despite the movements inherent in aerial photography. Control the angle of the camera directly from the piloting application with a simple movement of the thumb as the shifting on the 180° angle is fully digital and independent from the drone’s movements.

The combination of numerous sensors provides impressive stability, plus great manoeuvrability when flown with a smartphone or a tablet. It can also be flown with an optional Parrot Skycontroller. Silverlit’s sensational singing DigiBirds - interactive tweeting tabletop pets - have become a worldwide phenomenon, and a special limited edition of six new Silverlit DigiChicks will be available for Easter 2015.

Cleverly adopting the mannerisms of real birds with captivating movements, whilst tweeting or singing a song, the animated DigiChicks perform a selection of over twenty pre-programmed popular melodies.

Further new DigiFriends will be added to the range during 2015.

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The game is afoot!

Hall 3 Stand L5

GIBSONS 020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Gibsons is building on its range this year with some exciting new releases. The worldfamous detective Sherlock Holmes and his companion Dr Watson are once again on the trail of those notorious arch villains Professor Moriarty and Colonel Sebastian Moran in Gibsons’ brand-new game, Sherlock Homes the Card Game. Travel with them by Hansom Cab and train as you seek clues and suspects and finally make an arrest. Gibsons is expecting great things from the card game after achieving tremendous success last year with the redesign of its Sherlock-themed board game, 221B Baker Street, selling out of all initial copies in under three months and pre-selling the entire second run before the games could even be made. The product is presented in a luxury, black gift box with a sleek, silver foil finish, perfectly geared towards the gift market. Gibsons will also be presenting its new, nostalgic range of jigsaw puzzles, the Memory Lane series. The range kicks off with two editions, 1950s and 1960s, designed to take the puzzler back in time to the type of house in which they used to live. Beautifully painted in meticulous detail from the patterns on the wallpaper to the style of the children’s school uniforms, piecing together this puzzle will bring back memories. As always, Gibsons kick off the New Year with a fresh new range of jigsaw puzzles. 2015 sees the release of 60 puzzles, including commemorative WWII puzzles and additions from new and favourite artists.

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Time to accessorise Hall nd 3 Sta Q4

MARBEL 0845 6000 286 www.marbeltoys.co.uk At Spring Fair 2015, Cornish-based Toy Distributor Marbel will be showcasing all of the latest products from well-known brands BRIO, Hape, Nanoblock, Lottie, Pink Poppy, Bullyland and Oidroids. BRIO boasts additions to its theme park Rollercoaster Set that was released last year; a Ferris Wheel and a Fun Park Play set add active and fun accessories to the range, while interactive bells and spinning wheels make these a great addition to the wooden railway world. Nanoblock will launch several new products in 2015, including those with an

The power of plush PLUSHIEMORPHS 07925 856404 www.plushiemorphs.com

Hal l Sta 3 nd N43

The first Plushiemorph, Hero Dog, came to its founder in a dream – they had been playing with designs for some time, transforming plush toys, realising in their dream that they could do something far more amazing. The pattern and sewing sequence for an all-inclusive plush dog, which could transform itself into a super hero dog without any external parts, worked itself out right there and then. That first hand-made Hero Dog toy was a birthday present for the founder’s niece on her 2nd birthday. She loved it, and still loves it, along with her 3rd birthday present of a commercially made Hero Cat. And so the family of Plushiemorphs began to grow. What makes transforming plush stand apart from traditional plush is that, not only are they fun to play with and comforting to cuddle, but they can help children develop dexterity and coordination through the physical process of learning to transform the toy.

Transforming plush toys also add a whole new level to imaginative play and role-play possibilities. Plushiemorphs encourage children in creative storytelling, communication and interactivity, developing their natural creativity and curiosity.

The first line of Plushiemorphs are the Hero Pets, which are soon to be joined by the Rebel Pets.

ocean theme - think an Orca, Hammerhead Shark and a Rock hopper Penguin.

All part of the mini collection, these little creatures are perfect buys for microbuilding block builders.

Lottie Dolls cover the globe this year; with adventurous and active characters from Stargazers and Fossil hunters, there are dolls for boys and girls of all types. There are also new accessory kits in the range, with a scooter set, super hero outfit and a fishing kit. Such variety is guaranteed to make this role play doll a diverse product for any shop selling dolls. Pink Poppy will deliver a fiesta range of bags, purses and accessories this year.

Characteristically Spanish in design, with its Pink Poppy colour palette, the range delivers vibrant pinks, blues, greens and reds, making the peacock designs come to life.

Criminally good gaming RED HERRING GAMES 01472 348909 www.red-herring-games.com Red Herring Games, the games company specialising in murder mystery entertainment, is attending Spring Fair 2015 and will unveil new launches to its consumer brand, Crime Time. After seven years of dinner party game success, Red Herring Games is looking to increase retail listings and raise awareness of its extensive product range. Fans of murder mystery entertainment can download games, personalise products for special occasions and purchase props and accessories to make the murder mystery dinner party game experience even better. New for Spring Fair 2015, Red Herring Games will introduce downloadable games in compact mini boxes, launch four brand-new boxed games for 2015 and showcase the Complete Crime Scene Kit, popular with children and adults alike. Red Herring Games will use Spring Fair as a platform to build a strong and robust 2015 and it looks forward to welcoming retailers to its stand.

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Ballooning success!

QUALATEX

Graduation time!

PROFESSOR PUZZLE 3 Hall d Stan 5 V U4-

01279 501 090 0800 28 12 15 www.thequalatexevent.com Spring Fair 2015 will see the official launch of Qualatex’s 2015 Everyday Catalogue with fabulous new products including exciting new licenses and the brand new Qualatex party range!

Qualatex’s stand is a must visit for any toy, party, greeting acrds and gifts retailer, as well as events and party organisers. The stand will be hard to miss, with its impressively largescale balloon décor, designed by world famous balloon artist Fiona Fisher CBA. The company will be showcasing its new 2015 products along with the exciting additions to its licensed balloons and partyware ranges, with inspiring product demonstrations and special ‘trade show only’ product offers.

Make sure to allocate enough time to walk the Qualatex stand, it has a lot to offer, inlcuding inspirational window displays created by well-

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known and respected balloon artist Sue Bowler CBA, retail solutions for different types of businesses, product demonstrations at the Education Center, and a knowledgeable sales team who will be advising on the suitable product offers and the right balloon training.

Plus, don’t miss out on free balloon demonstrations at the daily Stage Seminars in Hall 3.

For more than 90 years Pioneer, best known for the Qualatex brand of balloons, has provided quality products and services worldwide. The Qualatex range includes an extensive selection of latex, foil and exclusive Bubble balloons, featuring the most popular licenses such as Disney, Marvel, Nickelodeon, Me to You, Hello Kitty, Lalaloopsy and more. Recent additions to Pioneer’s portfolio are party products, including tableware, candles, badges, banners and confetti.

01932 230992 www.professorpuzzle.com

Ha 3 S ll t A20 and -B2 1

It’s exciting times for Professor Puzzle heading into Spring Fair 2015, with a host of new product launches and many product enhancements.

Looking to cater for the younger puzzle enthusiast (7–11) The Puzzle Club offers a range of bright and colourful puzzles at pocket money prices. Upon graduation, Puzzle Academy picks up where Puzzle Club left off, with a selection of quality brainteasers. The Great Minds flagship range of high quality puzzles continues to expand with the addition of a new Winston Churchill Bottle Puzzle and an expansion to the multi-product gift sets. Replacing the previously successful range, Professor Puzzle launches a new set of five Bottle Puzzles. Designed to enhance the gift of a bottle of wine, they offer a challenge before enjoying a glass. Following a very successful year as custodians of the Tantrix brand in the UK, Professor Puzzle will welcome a new addition, offering a mid-point price and sitting between the Discovery and the Game Pack. With the Fascinations Metal Earth range of 3D steel model kits proving a hit last autumn, the company will show the expanded range of Classics, as well as licensed ranges from Star Wars and Star Trek. The company will also show samples from its bespoke design service.

Making learning fun ORCHARD TOYS 01953 423422 www.orchardtoys.com

Hall d 10 Stan 1 2 A20-B

Orchard Toys will be showcasing its entire fun learning range at Spring Fair this year, with the addition of two brand-new games and three jigsaws. On the new game front, there is Pizza, Pizza!, a fun colour and shape matching game for children aged 3-7 years, as well as the educational Match and Spell, a first reading and spelling game with two levels of play to support children as they develop their reading and spelling skills. The bold and colourful new jigsaws include Big Number Jigsaw, which comes with a poster, and where each jigsaw piece features a number from 1 to 20, with an array of colourful characters and objects to count. What Do I Do? includes six large, threepiece jigsaws for little hands, each featuring bold characters from different occupations. Orchard Toys are proud to continue manufacturing their products in the UK, using 100% recycled board and paper that is sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured in the UK.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Creature comforts!

PUPPET COMPANY 01462 446040 www.thepuppetcompany.com

Hall 3 Stand L38

New for Spring Fair 2015 will be three brand-new Hideaway Puppets featuring Rabbit Hill House, Under the Sea House and the Dinosaur Volcano House. These new Hideaways come complete with assorted finger puppets and a playhouse for them to live in. These sets follow on from Puppet Company’s everpopular Tree House, Mice in Cheese and Rabbit in a Lettuce. They come in bright vibrant colours. Also new at Spring Fair is the company’s Full Bodied Puppets- fantastic value with fabulous materials and 21 different favourite animals to collect. These puppets are not a straightforward sleeved puppet but come with full arms and legs making them just as cuddly as a soft toy, but with all the interactivity and power of a puppet. Easy to use and suitable for most hand sizes these are a superb addition to the company’s range and are already available from stock.

Animal magic RAVENSDEN 01933 356221 www.ravensden.co.uk

Hall 3 Stand P4-Q5

Specialising in the Zoo, Aquarium, Leisure and Promotional markets, Ravensden is a well-established family owned and operated company that was founded in 1975 and is experienced in product sourcing, importing and exporting, with a focus on animal themes. From Alpacas to Zebras, from soft toys to ceramics, Ravensden boasts the most comprehensive range of animal-themed merchandise available in Europe.

The aim of Ravensden is to supply quality products and continually develop and introduce new lines enhancing the retail offering of attractions, delivering a quality of product, level of service and order turnaround that is second to none. Ravensden has extensive experience and expertise in bespoke product design and end user fulfilment. Products can be created based on customisation of existing designs or a complete development of a product or character to suit reatilers’ particular requirements. Many of Ravensden’s standard products can be branded for individual attractions.

Options include embroidery on soft toys, dressing of soft toys with personalised t-shirts, bespoke swing tags promoting the brand and message, or pad printing onto a number of stock items. Ravensden’s designers and production team carry out all artwork origination and printing on Ravensden’s own site. More than 250 new lines will be introduced for 2015, including many new styles in the Ravensden Collection range of soft toys and a smaller range of realistic bird soft toys with sounds designed in conjunction with the RSPB.

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PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

In with the new TOBAR GROUP TRADING 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk

Hall 3 Stan d K2021

In the last 12 months, Tobar has managed to secure some exciting new distribution partnerships, including Maisto, Edible Sweet Art, Syma, Zuru, 50Fifty and Bburago. New partners include Schylling, Scentos and Turbospoke.

In addition Zuru and Bburago will be unveiling some exciting new lines.

Tobar is the new distribution partner for US brand Schylling, famous for its classic tin toys, and here are more than 100 new timeless toy lines being added this year. There is also a range of Schylling Collectibles limited edition lines. Tobar is also working with Bburago, which has secured the worldwide distribution rights for Ferrari die-cast models. A new distribution partnership with stationary brand Scentos delivers the Children’s Scented Stationary

A twist on a classic THE GAMES GANG 01473 735711 www.thegamesgang.com The Games Gang are on a mission to put even more fun into board and activity games with their new product range. The compact box surprisingly opens to reveal a full size board game inside. The products are full of fun, limitless imagination and great value.

A creative team of long-term industry specialists who share a passion for board and activity games, have reinvented family

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Range, a brightly coloured collection of scented children’s stationary. Looking to expand its outdoor range of toys, Tobar has teamed up with Turbospoke, becoming its new distribution partner for the UK and France.

This means a range of cool bike accessories that lets children customise their own bike. Zuru has come up with an ingenious addition to the Robo Fish and Magical Mermaid collection. 2015 is all about Robo Turtles. Tobar will also introduce the new Blue Sky Star Wars Collection, a classic novelty line of licensed Star Wars stationary and gifts. In addition, Tobar has added new lines to its own brand collection of classic Pocket Money and Adult Novelty Gifts, helping drive impulse sales and seasonal gifts.

l3 Hal d n Sta J09

favourites adding many new twists and turns.

They are led by Gang Leader John Pryke, who was instrumental in the European launch of Trivial Pursuit and Pictionary, and also in the early years of Nintendo in the UK. Ludo/Snakes and Ladders has been transformed with a special dice, enabling players to play their opponents’ moves (but not to their liking!) as well as their own adding a new levels of play and unexpected turns. Tic Tac Toe (also known as noughts or crosses) has been made into a full board game, incorporating a unique dice and twists and turns to enhance strategy, with play at three different levels.

Draughtsmen/ Outnumbered is Draughts played as a board game with dice, while also still being able to play in the traditional way plus much more! Letterbox is a new and exciting word game with lower case letters

(some of which can be used upside down), double letters, movable words and easy scoring for all family members.

Created by Activities Director Elaine McCabe, StoryBox and CreativeBox are exciting new activity play concepts for young children. They encourage limitless imagination stimulation and creative invention – everything for the positive development of the growing child!

Many of the products have two games in one compact box, utilising Games Gang’s patented full-size six-fold games board. All games are sensibly priced and their easy storage and transport ensures fun and entertainment will always be readily accessible - any time, any place, anywhere!

toysnplaythings.co.uk

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

All dressed up!

RUBIE’S

08453 070707 www.rubies.com Dress-up market leaders Rubie’s will be showcasing a great new array of costume ranges from its 2015 catalogue, including Marvel licensed lines for kids and adults from summer blockbusters Guardians of the Galaxy and the forthcoming Avengers: Age of Ultron, new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Doctor Who and brand-new Disney Princess dresses for the upcoming Cinderella live action movie and Frozen Fever animated short.

Favourite DC characters Batman, Robin, The Flash and Superman all have a new look for 2015 and Rubie’s will be showcasing its new range of costumes for adults and kids alike.

With Star Wars hype beginning to kick in ahead of The Force Awakens movie, Rubie’s will showcase its extensive Star Wars adult portfolio, as well its exciting new range of kids dress-up from the popular Star Wars Rebels Disney animated series. Book Week will be a

SS5S5SB21

major feature on the Rubie’s stand this year, with plenty of new ranges for boys and girls ahead of the World Book Day, but with an additional focus on adults. On show will be Rubie’s’ fun new Dennis the Menace range of licensed dress-up, alongside Book Week favourites including Harry Potter, Peter Pan, Horrid Henry and more. But that’s not all! Beano artist Kev Sutherland will make an appearance on the Rubie’s stand on the Monday and Tuesday of Spring Fair, drawing signed caricatures of visitors. Finally, with Halloween such a major focus in the dress-up calendar, expect plenty of creepy new Halloween ranges including a wide range of brand-new generic costumes and great licensed ranges like Pennywise the Clown from ‘IT’, while new offerings from Rubie’s Christmas catalogue will include its spectacular new Oversize Christmas Jumpers and kids’ Nativity range.

Challenge the children SMART TOYS AND GAMES

Hall 3 Stand R4-S5

Hall 3 Stand D7

01903 885669 www.smartgames.eu / www.smartmax.eu Smart Toys and Games has enjoyed a successful launch of its UK operation and are now looking forward to 2015 with new products and an extensive brand building campaign, featuring a wide range of new multichannel marketing initiatives. Smart Games, already the worldwide leader in multi-level logic games, is bringing the world of Fairy Tales to its 2015 range. The new Three Little Piggies Game is a perfect brainteaser for children aged 3+. It features three big puzzle pieces and children will be intrigued by the way the piggies fit inside the houses, look through the windows and escape the wolf. The game has a 24-page booklet with 48 multi-level challenges. There will be two new IQ games, new Tangoes and some new licenses. The award-winning SmartGames has multi-level challenges and come in travel, compact and tabletop editions.

SmartMax, the award winning pre-school construction system, allows children to explore magnetism in a fun and safe way. The products are safe and durable, while the magnets can carry up to 60 times their own weight. Each SmartMax magnetic bar features unique colour codes - blue, green and purple bars attract while red, orange and yellow repel. The giant parts are ideal for young children and allow them to easily create amazing and colourful super-sized structures.

The SmartMax range offers a whole universe of compatible building sets, vehicles and accessories. Every SmartGames product comes with an extensive challenge guide, and every SmartMax product comes with a colourful play guide.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

The Toy Fair, Olympia 20th - 22nd Jan STAND E110

Spring Fair, Birmingham NEC 1st - 5th Feb HALL 3 STAND H04

Growing Great Brands

Hall 3 Stand Q04

Stand B50

Call 0845 6000 286 to book an appointment or request a catalogue.

PREVIEW

TOYS @ SPRING FAIR

Going underground UNDERGROUND TOYS 0207 801 6325 www.underground-toys.com

Hall 3 Stand H5

Underground Toys (incorporating Gear For Games), which became well-known for its talking key chain products before expanding into the Talking Plush arena, holds the rights for an impressive portfolio of mega-brands. They include Star Wars, Doctor Who, Marvel, Sherlock, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, WWE, Peppa Pig, Ghostbusters, The Big Bang Theory and more. The brand will be exhibiting some classic and new products from existing ranges, as well as showcasing some new items. Just in time for the hype of the new Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens, is the new Star Wars: Talking Plush range, featuring lights, sound and movement, including new Roar & Rage Chewbacca and Lightsaber Battle Yoda. Also new is POP! Vinyl – the hugely popular, stylised collectible figures from various properties, from Adventure Time to Frozen, Game of Thrones to WWE, DC to Marvel, My Little Pony to Star Wars. With the next Marvel Avengers movie out May 2015, on show will be the Marvel Avengers: Age of Ultron: Talking Plush range, featuring a variety of characters and sizes. And there will be a Sherlock gift range including stickers, bottle openers, keychains, iPhone cases and more. Underground has recently expanded into the novelty, gift and homewares arenas and will be showcasing items such as The Walking Dead figural cookie jar, Doctor Who kitchenware, Game of Thrones drinkware, Vikings gifting, and Sherlock accessories. Underground has a unique bond with Funko on the ever-popular POP! vinyl range and will be showing a vast array of the range on the stand - an impressive 1300+ items.

Feeling plush POSH PAWS 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Posh Paws’ range continues to expand at a fast pace, and the company will showcase some of the hottest Disney movie plush around at Spring Fair.

The stand out movies for 2015 include: Inside Out, Star Wars, Cinderella and The Good Dinosaur.

In addition the company will launch brand new product for existing bestselling brands including: Frozen, Doc McStuffins, Palace Pets, Sofia the First, Winnie the Pooh, Mickey and Minnie.

Newcomers for 2015 also include: My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop,

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Hall 3 Stand K43

Kimmidoll and a new DreamWorks collection, as well as some brand new cute and cuddly nursery collections.

Posh Paws, known for its high quality plush products, has also seen great success expanding into the bag market.

You’ll be able to see the extensive Despicable Me and Minion Movie Bag range at Spring Fair. Alongside existing Disney plush bags and accessories, the company will also reveal Care Bears school backpacks and travel bags and some awesome new Frozen plush backpacks.

And if that’s not enough, you can also see the company’s licensed plastic and plush pocket money ranges, which offer real play value at pocket money prices!

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Coming up trumps WINNING MOVES 0207 298 9507 www.winningmoves.co.uk

Hall 3 Stand C20

Winning Moves will be unveiling a broad selection of licensed products. The highly anticipated Minions Movie will have its own Top Trumps Tin, which will include cards based around everyone’s favourite little yellow creatures! Star Wars fans will also be catered for with the Star Wars Top Trumps Tin, which will include characters from the hugely anticipated Episode VII being released later in the year. These new introductions will join the already strong-performing Top Trumps range incuding the number one bestselling Top Trumps pack, Disney’s Frozen. The Top Trumps collection will also boast a new Breaking Bad pack for older fans. The company’s Monopoly Collection will be showcasing four great new products featuring Game of Thrones, evergreen children’s characters from Nintendo, Zelda, Assassins Creed and Doctor Who Regeneration. The Trivial Pursuits adds The Big Bang Theory and more. Finally, Halo Risk will be added to the company’s growing collection.

Don’t miss us at...

Party like a princess TRAVIS DESIGNS 01442 289898 www.travis.co.uk

l3 Hal d n Sta P26

Travis Designs produce beautiful baby and children’s styles for generic and licensed ranges. At Spring Fair 2015, the awardwinning Travis Disney Baby range will launch the Baby Princess collection including best-loved characters Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Rapunzel. Also new will be Plush launch styles including Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Kermit. A new Jersey range will offer a great option for warmer weather and climates – styling includes jersey rompers with feature hood and cute bodysuits with a feature hat in sizes 0-18 months. The awardwinning launch range includes rompers, tabards and tutus for characters including Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger and Piglet, along with Mickey Mouse and Minnie, Marie from the Aristocats and Patch from 101 Dalmatian. Sophie la giraffe will be delivering rompers with moulded heads, tabards with feature hat and pretty tutus for babies, along with a cute Sophie puppet. The popular Dress up by Design generic range has more than 125 styles to choose from – favourites include Ride on Pony and Marie Antoinette.

New styles include Fuchsia Fairy, Musketeer and Frozen Fairy.

N E W toys for 2015

Hall 3 - Stand H01 Drop by to see our fantastic new rail sets, games and other new lines for 2015! Don’t miss our amazing show deals, award winning products and best sellers.

T: 01303 250400 F: 01303 257257 E: orders@bigjigstoys.com W: trade.bigjigstoys.com

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RETAIL OPINION

Retail Chat We talk bestselling licences, cross-category products and Spring Fair plans with 10 independent toy and gift retailers

TRACIE PEACOCK-QUINNEY Owner, Ella’s, Leamington Spa and Stow-on-theWold

Ella’s Toy Shop is an independent toy shop, supplying quality toys from selected suppliers. The Leamington Spa store has been open for five years and focuses on traditional and innovative educational toys, while the Stow-on-the-Wold store is a year old, with a focus on traditional toys as well as gifts for children.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

Both of our stores have been significantly up this year from last year, both in terms of sales quantity and average spend.

What were your biggest sellers in 2014?

Plush penguins have always sold well for us, but the sales of them in the last few months of 2014 were phenomenal. K’NEX toy rollercoasters were big sellers throughout 2014 and the Bigjigs Rail range consistently seems to do well.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015?

We have made the decision not to carry licensed product. Our focus is very much on being a traditional toy shop, so we don’t want to go with licensed product which is on sale everywhere. We want a point of difference.

Do you carry cross-category products?

In our five-year-old Leamington store, we focus on toys and educational toys only. However, in our year-old Stow-on-the-Wold store, we do traditional toys and have recently added more gifts, with giftware from brands like Rachel Ellen Designs for girls and TOPModel.

It’s proving really popular.

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BRIAN WISEMAN Owner, Present Company, Burgess Hill, West Sussex Established in 1988, Present Company is a high street large home and gift shop, providing an unusual selection of interesting objects, furniture and other homewares items. It stocks a vast range of products, including giftware, ceramics, glass, stationary, jewellery, and has a special accent on ethically source goods.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

Difficult to make comparisons as we moved in late 2013 to a new upstairs location in Burgess Hill’s Market Place Shopping Centre and we didn’t get re-opened until 5 December. Economic recovery is much in the news, but proving just a little elusive in town centres like ours. Empty shops are at last re-opening, albeit mostly as catering outlets. For us, we are seeing some very nice sales indeed, but it’s still a little hard going! Internet trading is brand new for us and represents an encouraging start for our online business.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015?

Licensed product barely features at all at Present Company. The character of our shop leans towards home and gift with an Asian flavour.

SALLY WESTERMAN Manager, Toys n Things, Roath Park, Cardiff This toy shop has been trading for 26 years and Sally has been manageress of for the past 15 years.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013? Trading improved in 2014 compared to 2013. We saw an increase in earlier sales this year.

What were your biggest sellers in 2014?

Well, no surprises here, but it was Frozen in every way. This was shortly followed

by Sylvanian Families, which actually overtook our Frozen sales in November and December 2014.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015? Frozen and more Frozen.

However, the licensed products we anticipate holding their positions going forward in 2015 are Frozen, Thomas the Tank and Peppa Pig.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

LORRY HODGKISS Owner, Jonathans Gift Shop, Shrewsbury, Shropshire Housed in a beautiful 15th century timber framed building in medieval Shrewsbury, this gift shop offers an unusual array of gifts, from fashion and jewellery, to stationery, greeting cards and furniture. In terms of brands, they offer everything from Pilgrim Jewellery and Dunoon Ceramics, to Crabtree and Evelyn beauty and Emma Bridgewater.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

We are like-for-like trading this year compared to last, but costs have all gone up, so in reality we will be making less profit on similar sales.

What were your biggest sellers in 2014??

Biggest seller - head and shoulders above all others - is Charlie Bear; runner-up is Greetings cards and stationery, then fashion accessories, especially scarves.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015?

We do not stock many licensed products as we do not see it fits our profile hugely, but those that we do stock - Beatrix Potter, Paddington, Winnie the Pooh, to name but a few, are strong and I do not see that changing.

JANET HARTREE Owner, Ewe & Me, Granton on Spey, Morayshire, Scotland This Scottish High Street store has been delivering quality gifts for the Home, friends, family and selfgifting since 2002.

How was trading in 2014 compared to 2013?

Trading is slightly up on last year, but looking optimistic for the New Year as an empty shop that has been closed for six years has just opened as a Gallery and Bistro. Yippee!

What were your biggest sellers in 2014?

My biggest sellers this year have been scarves and some great packaway shopping bags; they are reasonably priced, so picked up along with other purchases. Jewellery and homewares have also been good sellers.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015?

We do not sell licensed product as we feel this doesn’t sit well in our shops.

Do you carry cross-category products?

Yes we do, but we limit the amount of a particular category by space – so if it is toys/games/ party we buy only enough for its dedicated section within the shop. However, and there is always a ‘however’ - if a category is showing growth then we will extend the space and search for new products. Categories include accessories like jewellery and handbags; home like tabletop, lamps and candles; beauty; stationery and greeting cards; plus gifting categories for weddings and christenings.

SARAH HANSON Owner, Hoiti Toyti, Bromsgrove, Birmingham Sarah Hanson at the helm of Hoiti-Toyti, a traditional family-run business in Bromsgrove, Birmingham. The shop boasts three large rooms of toys for all ages and a play table for children to use, as well as a selection of gifts.

What were your biggest sellers in 2014?

Everything Frozen has soared this year. Lego has also been really popular, especially Lego City, Lego Technic and Minecraft Lego. For toddlers, VTech’s Toot Toot range has been popular and there have been increased requests for traditional wooden toys, especially wooden garages.

What licences are currently strong and will continue to sell in 2015?

Disney’s Frozen and Minecraft have both been sell-outs, Paddington has done quite well and Mr Tumble has been really popular, especially in the last few months. Ben & Holly has also been strong this year. In 2015, we expect Minecraft to be even more popular, as well as Peter Rabbit on the gifting side.

Do you carry cross-category products?

Yes, in addition to toys for all ages, we also offer complementary categories, including gifts for children like those from Noahs Ark, and christening gifts for babies and for parents, such as Peter Rabbit. We also cover the party category with party products like dress-up costumes for kids and decorations like bunting.

Do you think the key to success is range diversity or is it better to be category focused?

That’s an interesting question and one that we’ve been asking ourselves lately, having done some market research.

We realised that we had become too commercialised, expanding into too many different product categories. We have realised that for 2015, we need to be more focused with our selections and have a point of difference. Our plan is to grow our Fair Trade section and offer more specialised gifts.

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The Games Gang, Pilings House, Grundisburgh Road, Clopton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6QB T: 01473 735711 W: www.thegamesgang.com E: info@thegamesgang.com

Please vis Stand it us at Numbe r

3J09

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! Snakes & Ladders/Ludo, Draughtsmen/Outnumbered, Tic Tac Toe/ Noughts & Crosses Play traditionally or at a new level with our unique dice to move and play your opponentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pieces to your advantage.

Letterbox is a word game with reversible and movable letters and dice.

Board and Activity Games with new and exciting twists. 6-fold boards in compact boxes, full of fun and entertainment to take anywhere.

StoryBox and CreativeBox Scene setting themed adventures in a box with easily formed structures, characters, props, stickers, backdrop and unlimited imagination.