Toys n Playthings

CONTENTS Regular 5 Leader - with Mirella Anstey 6 News - hot off the press

015 July 2 No.10 4 3 .

Vol

TEAM TnP Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

9 Quick Coffee Break - with Green Board Games CEO, Keith Grafham 10 People News - checking in on the movers and shakers 12 Media News – the multimedia rundown 13 Media Charts - the latest kids’ TV viewing figures and toy TV advertising spend 14 Exhibition News - the latest on global fairs and shows 20 What’s New - new products that you need to get your hands on

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22 Toy Talk – the retailers have their say 50 Trade Talk – we give suppliers the chance to talk business 79 Don’t Miss – unmissable products for all buyers and retailers

Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

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

80 Licensing News – the hottest news from the toy licensing industry 81 Movie News - the latest from the box office 83 Step Back In Time – a slice of toy history from the industry’s longest running magazine

Features 32 Boys’ toys – discover the latest toys for boys

Media Solutions Manager Bradley Mason bradley@lemapublishing.co.uk

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Design and Production Marian McNamara marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

54 RC toys – this sector is really taking off, and we’re not just talking drones

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64 Wooden toys – go back to nature with these classic toys 72 Christmas stocking fillers – no Christmas is complete with a stocking packed full of these wonders 76 Licensing Expo 2015 review – Team TnP reports back from the world’s biggest licensing event

Special Report 16 Cover Story – Spin Master reveals all about its high-flying outdoor brand Air Hogs

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19 TnP TV is here! – the latest from TnP’s boundary-pushing new weekly TV show 24 Retail Interview – Just Williams owner Vicky Brown talks about the expansion of her family-run business 52 Focus: Mookie Toys – discover how Mookie is branching out into new categories

Columnists Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

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15 Media Whisperer – Clive Crouch looks at kids’ pocket money and the current generosity of the bank of mum and dad 28 High Street Highs – The Entertainer’s MD Gary Grant talks keeping up with the competition 29 Shop Talk – John Ryan breaks down the instore success of LEGO 30 The Independent and Secret Supplier – our dynamic duo discuss discounting

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31 Business Driver – former European head of Hasbro John Harper looks at how his career made him happy 78 TnP Ambassadors – our ambassadors test the toys you stock on your shelves 82 Licensing Opinion – was Kelvyn’s trip to Vegas for Licensing Expo 2015 worth it? You bet it was!

1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

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TableWare INTERNATIONAL

o, it’s July and Christmas is just around the corner...isn’t it?

Well, the past few weeks have seen Argos and Hamleys reveal their Christmas 2015 top toys lists and while they are imperative reading, there are no real surprises there for any of us who scooted around the stands at the toy fairs or who have been up to showrooms.

An old friend who’s a national journalist I spoke to recently was pretty cynical: “These lists are coming out earlier and earlier each year. And they are all linked to kids’ films. Brainwashing”.

Er, well, as I explained to this embittered old hack, TV and movies are really driving toy sales and this has been the case for many decades Sean Connery’s iconic 007 cars, Adam West as Batman anyone? But actually, yes, of course the lists help sales, but the reality is more and more consumers want to have Christmas done and dusted by October - and by that I mean, lists compiled, presents purchased, gifts wrapped and cards written. Sorted.

Therefore, these lists are very useful indeed.

Coupled with that is the desire, no the hardcore drive and determination, of many alpha mums to ensure that little Johnny or Jenny will most definitely have the must-have toy of the year.

That toy that all the mums are scouring the High Street, queuing round the block for, spending hours hunched over their tablets, phones and work computers, searching the internet and forums to buy; the toy that makes news headlines and otherwise perfectly composed women brawl in the street.

Judging by these two lists, there are a couple of decent contenders for that longed-for accolade. I won’t be biased and tell you what I think has the wow factor, or which toys will be under the tree for the Anstey family this year.

I’ll leave that one to you all - please get in touch

Vivid – My Friend Freddy Bear

and let me know which toys in the list are going to fly off the shelves.

To jog your memories, the lists are both here:

Mirella Anstey

Argos: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

My Friend Freddy Bear VTech Toot Drivers Super RC Raceway Thunderbirds Interactive Tracy Island LEGO City Deep Sea Exploration Vessel Nerf Modulus Pie Face Chad Valley 3 Storey Summer Winter Dolls House Shopkins Scoops Ice Cream Truck Plays Barbie Style Your Way House Frozen Sing-A-Long Elsa Little Live Pets Birds Clever Keet Minions Tumbling Stuart Real FX Racing

Hamleys: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Interactive Tracy Island Skate & Sing Elsa i-Que Intelligent Robot Little Live Pets – Clever Keet Once Upon A Time Princess Rose Peppa Kinetic Sand 3D Maker My Friend Freddy Bear Shopkins ‘Scoops’ Ice Cream Truck Playset ■ LeapPad Platinum Now, as you all know, we are a social bunch here at TnP. So once again, our formidable MD and founder, Malcolm Naish, held his muchloved TnP golf Day - a red letter day in the toy industry’s networking calendar.

The 7th Toys ‘n’ Playthings golf classic at Goring & Streatley once again enjoyed fantastic weather plus some great golf. There were 44 golfers that took part, and our congratulations to Stu Nicholas, playing off 1 and winning with 37 points and a best gross of one under. Also in our 21 to 28 handicap section to Daniel Chrystie of Generation Media, coming in with an amazing 47 points. A great time was had by all, so put next year’s date in the diary – 21st June 2016.

PICTURE BUSINESS

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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

TnP Golf Day champ Stu Nicholas receives his trophies from TnP founder Malcolm Naish

NEWS Grossman sells business Bratz make a comeback

The industry was shocked last month by news that toy stalwart Martin Grossman had sold H. Grossman Ltd, his family business.

The company is currently celebrating its 70th year and Mark Walls, Martin and Elinor has been sold to Mark Walls and Daniel McLoughlin, both formerly Grossman, Caroline Brotherton, Danny McLoughlin of HTI, who have completed a majority share purchase to acquire ownership of H. Grossman Ltd and H. Grossman (HK) Limited.

Speaking to TnP following the announcement, Martin said the decision was not one he took lightly.

“We had a bumper year last year but I said to my wife Elinor, ‘I think it might be time for me to take it easy’. I decided on Mark and Daniel because I want the business to survive and to be here for another 70 years. Both of these guys will do an awesome job, they have more than 35 years experience in the industry between them.”

Martin confirmed that both he and his co-director Caroline Brotherton will be on hand “until they don’t need us”.

“The business has a lot going for it,” reflected Martin. “I’ve insisted they stay in Scotland and all of the staff have been taken on.”

Martin admitted that one or two staff members shed a tear when he announced the news and “quite a lot were stunned but the business has a future now.”

As for his wife Elinor, Martin says that while she agreed with his decision to sell the business, “she doesn’t want me in the house. I’ll have to get a part-time job, maybe a paper round or something.”

Girls’ favourite Bratz is making a comeback. MGA Entertainment (MGAE) is planning to refresh its blockbuster Bratz brand, and introduce several new toy lines.

Firstly, Bratz is re-launching with an innovative app, entertainment content, top global agency partners and a new, relevant message platform.

Next is Project Mc2, a new doll line, based on the STEM curriculum, which will launch in early August with its own global, original live-action series for tweens and a partnership with AwesomenessTV to provide short-form content via YouTube influencers.

MGAE will celebrate Lalaloopsy’s fifth birthday with a Super Silly Party full of surprises this autumn, across all of their licensing, entertainment and retail partners.

Nicola Mellor, UK Bratz Brand Manager, said: “2015 is definitely an exciting year for MGAE and we’re looking forward to bringing back one of our most successful brands. The audience of 2015 is very different to the audience of 2001 when we originally launched Bratz and the brand and launch campaign will reflect that. 2015 Bratz will be like nothing else on the market.”

TREND SPOTTING: “SPLASH-TASTIC” TOYS This month Kristin Morency Goldman from the US Toy Industry Association tell us about a splashing great trend Water is not only an essential element of life – it’s also an essential element of play. From mermaid plush to water blasters, Under the Sea toys and games are making a splash across several toy categories this year, including dolls, games, collectibles, outdoor, and more.

Because this trend is so widespread, TIA has broken it down into three categories: toys that are waterthemed, toys that involve water play, and toys that are educational, teaching kids about aquatic life. The following are TIA’s top Under the Sea toy picks that are sure to have kids learning, growing, laughing and splashing from now through to holiday ’15!

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From mermaid plush to water blasters, Under the Sea toys and games are making a splash this year

”

Little Tikes Fish n Splash Water Table (MGA Entertainment) This water table includes lots of fill, pour and splash extras to make playing with water extra fun. Includes a fishing pole, water scoops and five animal friends to catch.

Luxury Yacht with RC Underwater Motor (Playmobil) Cruise around in style on any body of water with the luxury yacht. Playmobil figures can hang out on the sun deck and watch the waves lap against the yacht or enjoy a nice meal on the fully furnished lower deck.

Nerf Rebelle Super Soaker Tri Threat Blaster (Hasbro) The Nerf Rebelle Tri Threat soaker holds up to 25 ounces of water to soak the competition! Dive into action as you pump the blaster to send streams of water blasting up to 35 feet.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

MEDIA

NEWS Schleich ramps up support for retailers Toy Trust raises a record £205,000 The Toy Trust has outdone themselves this year, smashing all previous records.

The Big Challenge, which took place on Saturday 6 June raised a whopping £205,000 for a number of children’s charities.

As a result of Saturday’s fundraising, more than 120 special needs children across the UK will shortly be presented with a life-transforming custom-fit trike or wheelchair via three nominated UK based charities; Action For Kids, Cyclists Fighting Cancer and Handicapped Children’s Action Group.

An amzing 290 people in 26 teams from all sectors of the UK toy industry ran, walked, cycled and “triathloned” a total of 14,321 miles to achieve the record-breaking funds.

As well as the efforts of the athletes, the total was achieved with the support of five platinum sponsors Import Services, NHA Pursuit International, AA Thornton, Seven Towns and Generation Media.

Details of the 2016 event will be released shortly and organisers hope that even more companies will attend to help enable the Toy Trust to continue to support these deserving charaties.

Buzz Bee Colossus 2 (RP Toys) This air pressure water blaster will leave you soaked! With three powerful adjustable nozzles, it blasts water up to 40 feet, and has a two-tank system that creates powerful blasting action with less pumping.

Hexbug AquaBot 2.0 Shark Tank (Innovation First) The AquaBot 2.0 has an automatic on/ off water sensor and is equipped with patent-pending smart fish technology and a life-like inner LED glow.

Marine Rescue Center (Build and Imagine) A magnetic building set that develops early engineering skills and inspires storytelling. Kids simply connect the magnetic illustrated shapes, and then decorate their scenes with magnetic accessories.

JULY 2015

Schleich has unveiled two new retail activation plans to support its retailers across UK and Ireland. The Great Schleich Dinosaur Hunt takes place in stores throughout June and July. Retailers have been provided with a full kit to hold in-store events, including posters, colouring sheets and trail cards for children to complete the hunt. Children who partake will have the opportunity to win an in store prize, while all entrants will be in the running for a national prize. Further to this, selected retailers will also be offering a loyalty card for its customers throughout the summer. Running from 1 July to 31 August, every customer who spends £5 on Schleich products will receive a sticker; once six stickers have been collected, the customer can choose a free item.

BEAR THIS IN MIND D Team Vivid headed to BritMums Live! to launch nch their interactive pre-school bear, My Friend Freddy. y.

The two-day social media conference and blogger event was held in London from 19 to 21 June and saw the app-supported toy making his debut.

“Britmums Live! offers us the ideal opportunity unity to gauge blogger reaction prior to launching Freddy reddy in the UK” said Kerry Paternoster, Marketing Manager anager at Vivid. “As the influence of mummy bloggers ers grows, events of this kind are a perfect forum m to showcase products that need to be experienced hands on. From the event we will be able to gather a forum of influential bloggers that we can partner with going forward across other pre-school brands.”

Sleepy Seas Sound and Lights Octopus (Gund, a division of Enesco LLC) A cute and cuddly octopus plush toy that helps soothe baby to sleep with relaxing sounds and soft glowing lights. Sleepy Seas plays calming ambient music at the push of a button.

Robo Turtle (Zuru) Using the latest in micro-robotic technology, Robo Turtle can both walk on land and swim in the water with lifelike movements!

Sea Sparkles (Aurora World) Beautiful mermaid dolls that are both classic and trend-forward with flowing yarn hair and sparkling fabrics. The latest collection of six mermaids, called Sea Shimmers, have long shimmery hair, crowns and new outfits.

In next month’s column, we’ll take a look at the “Smart Play” trend, which includes toys that teach children important science, tech, engineering and math concepts.

For more information about TIA’s top trends of 2015, visit www.

ToyAssociation.org/Trends.

For more information about TIA visit www.

ToyAssociation.org or www.ToyInfo.org. To learn more about the amazing benefits of play, visit www.TheGeniusOfPlay.org.

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NEWS Retailers speak up about fair

Change at Rubie’s UK Fancy dress specialist Rubie’s Masquerade has announced several changes and appointments in key roles to support its UK business and strengthen its position across EMEA. Tracey Devine, previously European Licensing & Marketing Director at KD Group, has been appointed as Rubie’s’ new Head of Marketing EMEA. David Wootliff, previously Head of Marketing at Rubie’s, has been promoted to the position of Commercial Director for the UK. Neil Ash has been appointed as Rubie’s’ Head of Apparel Operations, reporting to the Commercial Director while Jaimi Weston has been promoted to Head of Production & Planning, EMEA. “These new roles allow us to further plan for growth and efficiencies across the wider business as we continue to increase our presence in EMEA and strengthen our UK team to better meet the needs of our customers and the consumer with great product,” said Chris Isitt, Vice President, EMEA & Australia, Rubie’s Masquerade Co. UK Ltd.

THERE ARE TOYS IN THE HOOD Toyhood Store, an independent, family-run children’s toy and gift shop in North London has just launched a new website, complete with online shop.

Co-owner Daniel Welton says that affordability is key to Toyhood’s offering, and as such, a large majority of the product it sells comes in around the pocket money price range.

Visit www.toyhoodstore.co.uk for more.

Independent retailers across the UK and Ireland have signed an online petition to keep London Toy Fair “alive”.

The petition, which has garnered over 100 signatures, has been started by Dave Middleton of Midco Toys who argues that Toy Fair is vital to independent retailers across the country, and should be supported by suppliers.

Dave was compelled to act after Hasbro and MGAE both announced they would be unable to attend London this year.

“As UK independents we need to stand together to keep London Toy Fair alive… we need to stress the importance of the show,” he says, pointing out that Toy Fair is often the only chance some independents get to see new ranges, adding “independents are the heart and sole of the toy trade.”

Dave’s petition has been met with widespread support, with many retailers proclaiming Toy Fair as vital to their business.

Take a look at the petition here: www.petitions24.com/operation_ keep_the_london_toy_fair_alive - form

Playmobil founder Horst Brandstätter dies aged 81 Horst Brandstätter, Playmobil’s Founder has passed away aged 81.

He died on 3 June 2015 following a short illness and would have celebrated his 82nd birthday at the end of the month.

“We’re deeply saddened by Horst’s death,” said Playmobil UK’s Commercial Director, Uffe Kloster.

Speaking to TnP, Uffe added: “Playmobil has had a real impact on the lives of many children all over the world. We have demonstrated our strength by becoming an iconic brand, the fifth largest toy company in Europe, and the kind of company I think we will see less and less of: a company developed by creative entrepreneurs like Mr Brandstätter with a true vision to provide fun for children.”

Pictured at the Toy Trust Golf Day was Clive Jones, former BTHA President presents the Argos sponsored Chad Valley Bowl to the winner of the afternoon Stableford completion Craig Kidd. Craig won a voucher for two people to play at the world-famous Sunningdale Golf Club later this year.

The Toy Trust Golf Day’s morning Texas Scramble was won by John Bolton, Anthony Temple, Tony Mace and Mike Barratt. They all won vouchers for two people to play at Sonning Golf Club, one of the best golf clubs in Berkshire.

Be smart Bureau Veritas has launched a new app designed to keep the industry up to speed with regulatory changes.

Called BV Smart, the app has been developed

by Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (BVCPS) and it allows retailers, brands, manufacturers and importers to stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes and new standards affecting the global consumer products supply chain.

The free app is available on Apple Store, Google Play and Microsoft Store and has been specifically developed for anyone looking after the compliance, safety and quality of consumer products.

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Smiffys scoop top award R H Smith & Sons, best known for the Smiffys brand of costumes, dress-up and party products, picked up the DN21 Business of the Year 2015 Award. The DN21 Awards, held on 4 June, is a new event which celebrates and rewards the local business community within the DN21 postcode one of 32 in the Doncaster postcode area. With awards such as Retailer of the Year, the awards celebrate the wealth of local business in the Gainsborough community.

The judges cited R H Smith’s efforts in pushing into new markets as a major factor contributing to its win.

Pictured: Smiffys’ Roald Dahl Fantastic Mr Fox costume

New MD for Jumbo Jumbo Games has a new man at the helm. Stewart Middleton has been announced as the games company’s new MD following the departure of Gray Richmond (see People News, page 10).

Stewart joined the UK team in June and has extensive experience in the industry including integral sales roles at Mookie Toys from 2006 and latterly TP Toys, following Mookie’s acquisition of TP Toys in 2012 in which Middleton took a central role at the business. In February 2015 he moved to Plum Products where he assumed the position of Sales Director before joining Jumbo Games as Managing Director.

Speaking about his new role, Stewart said he was “delighted” to join Jumbo Games as Managing Director.

Mike signs off in style The Character Group’s summer party was an ideal opportunity for the company to say farewell to Mike Rowe.

During his time at Character Group, Mike has helped to guide the company to their pre-eminent position in the industry today and has been responsible for selling some great products along the way. Full report next month.

COFFEE BREAK Usborne Publishing’s Territory Manager, Northern England and North Wales Boyd Denton speaks to TnP about the importance of their relationship with toy retailers Tell us about Usborne Publishing’s relationship with toy retailers – how important is that to you?

Our relationship with toy retailers is very important to us. We view the toy trade as a key growth area and have steadily increased our presence within it over the last few years.

A bonus is the wonderful retailers we have met along the way!

Children’s books can offer something extra to a toy retailer’s in-store offering, are many retailers buying into the idea of stocking books too?

A lot of toyshops are warming to books.

Books can offer many things - from rainy day activities to a beautiful gift - all with a strong perceived educational value. We believe that Usborne books are a key ingredient for toyshop owners who want to ensure that all bases are covered when it comes to gift solutions for their customers.

How is 2015 shaping up for Usborne at this half-way point?

2015 is looking great for Usborne so far. A strong presence at trade shows has seen many new relationships made, and continued growth within our existing customer base has seen us reach the number one slot in the book industry’s sell-through data, for the first time in our history.

What incentives do you use to support independent retailers?

We can work flexibly to cater for individual retailer’s needs, offering additional terms for money-off and value-added promotions, supplying display POS as well as a full merchandising operation if required. Also, all the stock supplied by us is on a sale-or-return basis, so any risk involved in stocking a new range is effectively removed. We have the utmost confidence in the Usborne brand and are keen to do whatever we can to help toy retailers realise the potential of stocking our books.

What are your hero lines at the moment?

Our strength is in the range and breadth of the Usborne list, backed by the oftrepeated quote that “Usborne has a book for everything”. That said, series such as Peep Inside (non-fiction for the very young) and stand-alone titles like Write Your Own Comics and Fingerprint Activities are performing really well - not to forget old favorites such as our renowned series, That’s not my… series and Sticker Dolly Dressing.

JULY 2015

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PEOPLE

NEWS Golden Bear strengthens R&D team with new appointment Emily Nicholls joins Golden Bear as Assistant Product Manager having graduated from Lancaster University with a Business Management degree and an MSc in Project Management. Emily has gained considerable experience across the company and has been involved with the toy industry for many years.

She will be working on many of the company’s pre-school brands within the highly talented Product Development team.

String of senior hires for Tomy Tomy has welcomed Mark Foster to the role of Head of Marketing EMEA, the latest in a string of high profile recruitments for the Japanese toy company. Mark joins after nearly 20 years at Hasbro in various roles, most recently as European Marketing Director. With the recent appointments of a Senior Vice President of EMEA Operations and a new UK Sales Director, Tomy says it is now poised for a major offensive across Europe.

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Three new faces at DKL DKL Marketing has welcomed three new members to its team, strengthening its sales and customer service divisions.

Kate Redley and Vicki Robertson bolster the sales team. Kate joins as Stock Planner, managing stock for all seven ranges distributed by DKL, while Vicki joins as sales executive, responsible for managing current customers as well as developing new business across all of DKL’s ranges.

DKL has been further enhanced by the appointment of Amy Chapman, who will work within the Customer Service team.

Pictured top to bottom Kate, Vicki and Amy

KD UK welcomes new national account manager KD UK has a new national account manager in the shape of Paul Dearlove.

Paul has a wealth of experience in the toy and licensing industry, both in the UK and New Zealand, having spent over 15 years working at companies including Crayola, Blueprint Collections and MY Sports.

In his new role, Dearlove will work with the existing sales team and agents to oversee the toy division within KD UK, working closely with head of sales for the technology division, Paul Joyner.

“Right now at Tomy there is a fantastic buzz about the future,” said Mark. “As a top five toy company globally, Tomy has been historically under-represented in Europe - so the region is now a major focus as a growth opportunity for the business. There’s a lot of new faces and expertise recently joined the European Senior Management Team and we all share one thing in common: a belief that Tomy has enormous potential just waiting to be unleashed.”

David Miller joins ITVS GE’s games division

Hans-Jurgen Koot is one of the key figures in ensuring that potential is realised in the newly created role of Senior Vice President of EMEA Operations. He has over 20 years’ experience in retail. Fred Wolff is the new UK Sales Director. He has European consumer sales and marketing experience with organisations such as Proctor & Gamble.

Pictured from top to bottom Mark Foster, Hans-Jurgen Koot and Fred Wolff

ITV Studios Global Entertainment (ITVS GE) has appointed David Miller to the newly created role of VP, Digital Games.

Reporting to Steve Green, EVP, Kids’ Content and Distribution, Miller will be tasked with growing the reach of the company’s children’s brands in the digital games marketplace, with a particular focus on the recently launched Thunderbirds Are Go.

MD Gray Richmond departs Jumbo Games Gray Richmond, Managing Director at Jumbo Games, has left the business after 10 years. Gray has worked for Jumbo Games es since 2005.

Arend Smit, CEO Royal Jumbo o Group, said: “After ten en years with the company, mpany, Gray has decided cided that it is time to move on and seek another other role with new challenges. allenges.

We wish Gray y success in his s future career.” r.”

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MEDIA

Meccanoid appears on teatime TV

NEWS

Step in to LEGO Worlds LEGO Worlds, a new videogame featuring an open-world made entirely of digital LEGO bricks, has been launched on PC through digital distribution platform Steam.

Developed by TT games and published by WB Games, LEGO Worlds has released as part of Steam’s Early Access program, meaning LEGO fans can begin playing an early version of the game as it is being developed, and new features will be added as they are completed.

LEGO Worlds features procedurally generated environments, making every player’s world different - randomly generated by the computer to ensure a unique experience for all. It is similar in concept to Mojang’s Minecraft, albeit with official LEGO bricks.

Players can explore, build and create in a variety of ways: brick-by-brick, using pre-fabricated constructs or using large-scale landscaping tools to shape their world. A number of real world construction sets have even made the jump to digital, taken from the Classic and current LEGO themes.

The available version of the game includes everything from helicopters and motorbikes to dragons and gorillas.

LEGO Worlds launched 1 June and will be updated with new features added as they are developed.

Play

Paul O’Grady Show viewers were given a special performance by Meccano’s new personal robot Meccanoid recently. He visited the studio to showcase his versatility as an entertainer, handing out highfives and delivering jokes.

He also danced to guest Olly Murs’ latest song, but Strictly judge Craig Revel-Horwood, another guest on the show, scored him just two for his ‘wooden’ performance.

MEET THE NEW TELETUBBIES DHX Media has revealed the first glimpse of the brand new Teletubbies ahead of the show’s hotly anticipated return to UK TV screens on CBeebies later this year.

Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po have retained their distinctive features but have been updated for a new generation of children with Touch Screen Tummies that will broadcast liveaction films, shot from a child’s perspective.

Teletubbyland and Home Hill have also been visually enhanced to give a more natural feel.

Disney Infinity goes Inside Out Disney Interactive has revealed more details about Disney Pixar’s Inside Out Play Set for Dinsey Infinity 3.0.

Based on DisneyPixar’s recently released film, the Inside Out Play-Set takes place in Riley’s mind after she inadvertently catches a glimpse of a scary movie as she is falling asleep. Her Emotions - Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness - rally together to calm the turmoil that has overtaken Imagination Land as a result.

Disney Infinity 3.0 players must help Riley’s Emotions journey through Imagination Land, work together using each character’s unique skills to defeat enemies, gather Riley’s displaced memories, and return them to the Long Term with the help of Mind Workers before Riley awakens.

Playable characters with figures for the play-set include Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness. Each figure comes with special powers to combat swamp creatures and other nightmarish beasts in-game.

Players will be able to use the figures, plus hundreds of Star Wars, Marvel and Disney-themed items, locations, props and vehicles to create new adventures in customised worlds.

Releasing this autumn, additional figures and Play Sets will be announced over the coming months.

We are connected A cool new team of four boys known as The Connectors has come racing on to the scene in a new Hot Wheels campaign.

Each of the boys represents their own racing personality and all thrive on adrenaline-fuelled adventures.

A series of 11 videos releasing across nine weeks features The Connectors completing different Hot Wheels challenges to inspire boys to become the ultimate track masters, and is supported with a multi-platform marketing programme.

The challenges are also brought to life with an innovative toy range for spring/summer including the TV advertised Track Builder Spiral Stack-Up and Super Speed Blastway, while autumn/winter sees the launch of the Nitrobot Attack and Track Builder Volcano Blast.

Play

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elcome to the May media report. As mentioned in our last report we will be looking at Boys and Girls 4-9 years and Housewives with Children Pre-School.

There’s good news to report, the Boys viewing figures are up 11.3%. As the chart shows, there has been some movement with The Cartoon Network down with a bump and Pop is showing a massive increase along with Tiny Pop. The total Girls viewing levels are up by 14.2%.

We see a massive increase for Tiny Pop, mainly due to it going on the Freeview platform, and most of the other stations holding their own.

Housewives with Children Pre-School is a market we have not looked at for a few months, and there’s good news here too. This market is up by 23.5%, with Nick Junior, Disney Junior and Tiny Pop all doing well. ITV Breakfast is holding its own, and we must remember this viewing group is not their core audience, so to break even when compared to May 2014 they are doing well.

Reported TV expenditure for the top ten advertisers is up by 17.5% - again a massive increase at this time of the year. For the total market, this is up by 25.9%, a massive increase that means there is more money being spent outside the top ten players, so we can say that this market for the period has grown. Based on last month’s figures it looks as if this could continue.

The total expenditure for the TV market is up by 1.9% (£6.2m). I am sure everyone knows by now that Sky Media has taken over the selling of airtime for Channel 5. This took effect from 1 June, and makes Sky Media the largest supplier of kids airtime.

Next month we will continue to report on both Girls and Boys 4-9 years and also report on Housewives with All Children.

May 2014 Toy Company TV Expenditure

May 2015 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Hasbro (UK) Ltd Mattel Uk Ltd LEGO Uk Ltd Bandai UK Ltd Mga Ent Character Options Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Epoch Making Toys Ltd Playmobil UK Ltd Zuru Toys ( USA)

£860,945 £779,937 £307,662 £263,049 £235,899 £229,437 £212,868 £195,367 £146,580 £91,122

Mattel UK Ltd Hasbro (UK) Ltd Character Options Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd LEGO UK Ltd Zuru Toys (USA) Playmobil UK Ltd Nintendo (UK) Ltd Vivid Imaginations Ltd Famosa Toys

£1,119,142 £954,297 £440,573 £315,895 £264,752 £268,755 £264,419 £163,881 £144,822 £112,909

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

SEPTEMBER SE S EP PT TEMB EM E MB BE ER 2013 2013 20 13

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EXHIBITION

NEWS

The fairest of them all Toy Fair 86% sold out The BTHA say 86% of exhibition space has already been booked for London Toy Fair 2016, which takes place from Sunday 24 to Tuesday 26 January.

They add that despite the forced change of dates, the re-booking rate for 2016 currently stands at 75% with LEGO, Vivid, Character, Flair, Golden Bear, Simba Smoby, Spin Master and Bandai, among others all returning for another year.

Speaking about the fair, Mary Wood, Marketing Director described the event as “pivotal” for Vivid.

“Being so close to Nuremberg has certainly made things more challenging logistically, but we are committed to making 2016 our best Toy Fair yet.”

Agreeing, Jon Diver, Character Options and Toy Fair Chairman described London as being “crucial” to the company.

Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair Operations and Sales, commented, “In a year of change, some

exhibitors have found the logistics more difficult to organise than others, and that was to be expected with two shows so close together.

Having said that, we have had an incredibly positive response from the vast majority of exhibitors and have been pleasantly surprised by the number of new companies wishing to join the show – the upside of the date difficulties is that we actually have space for them this year.”

If you are interested in exhibiting or sponsorship please contact the Toy Fair team on 020 7701 7127 or Majen@btha.co.uk

KIND + JUGEND 2015 ALMOST FULLY BOOKED Organisers of the leading nursery industry fairs, Kind + Jugend are reporting that the show is almost fully booked. The show takes place in Cologne from 10 to 13 September with exhibitors presenting new products and further developments from the children’s furniture, safety seats, textile equipment, prams, hygiene items and toys sectors to the trade visitors on exhibition space spanning over 100,000 square metres.

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Exhibitors will include Alvi, Artsana-Chicco, Britax Römer, Cybex, Dorel, Goodbaby, Haba, Hape, Hartan, Hauck, Joolz, Mattel fisher-price, Noukies, Osann, Paidi, Peg Perego, Pinolino, Recaro, Sterntaler, Zapf Creation and Zöllner, as well as promising young companies will be represented in Cologne.

At home in Harrogate Home and Gift Harrogate 2015 is nearly here, and there are plenty of toy exhibitors at this year’s show to make a trip to the Yorkshire city more than worth while. Running 19-22 July, toy exhibitors include Gibsons, House of Marbels, Marbel, The Puppet Company and Le Toy Van to name just a few.

Visitors will also have the chance to see more than 10,000 gifts from thousands of established and new brands.

Show Director, Cleere Scamell, said: “Home & Gifts is an exhibition, a conference and a festival all rolled into one… Visitors not only have first access to a huge range of lines for the new season but they will also have time to really focus on their business at the Great Northern Retail Summit.”

Blogging for BLE As we ramp up for Europe’s largest licensing exhibition, BLE, organisers have created an informative blog to keep visitors and exhibitors up-todate. Now in its 17th year, Brand Licensing Europe takes place from 13-15 October 2015 at London’s Olympia and will feature over 300 leading brand owners showcasing more than 2,500 brands, characters and images.

The BLE Blog will feature posts from the team on getting the most from the show, as well as the latest news, initiatives and promotions.

It will also publish a number of guest posts from show partners, speakers and exhibitors on a range of topics including industry trends, legal issues, five minute interviews with senior attendees and a series of ‘how to’ guides.

Speaking about the blog, BLE Event Director Darren Brechin said: “The BLE Blog is the next step in the show’s evolution - providing an ideal platform for us to shout about what we do, but also gather together our huge network of show partners to offer valuable content to the licensing industry.”

To follow the blog visit www.thebleblog.com.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

MEDIA

OPINION

Are the kids alright?

O

ne very important financial aspect of the recent election that was not addressed by Dave or George was the pocket money market for children. Fortunately, Halifax did look into the market and the good news is that the seventy eight per cent of the children who took part in Halifax’s 2014 Pocket Money survey still receive a weekly amount.

The bad news is that the proportion was down from 82 per cent in 2014 and from 84 per cent in 2013. In previous years, the confectioner Rowntree and Wall’s Ice Cream used to produce annual pocket money surveys; they obviously had an interest as indeed does Halifax but their product comes without high fats, salt and sugar.

The survey was conducted with a sample of 1,200 participant children, aged between eight and 15 years old. As a long-term reader of these reports I’ve noticed a number of patterns remain the same, although some previous trends are changing.

Boys still receive more pocket money than girls but the gap has narrowed to an all-time low of just 11p.

The Halifax report shows that boys receive £6.25 a week on average, while girls receive £6.14.

Despite an improving economy, children receive 15p a week less on average than a year ago. In 2013 the average was £6.50 and in 2014, it was £6.35.

So are the kids alright? Well maybe not, one in four children surveyed thought their friends got more pocket money than they did. Although the proportion of children who believe their parents ought to cough up more cash fell by two percentage points from 2013 to 41 per cent.

That is still a high portion of children wanting more cash, of which boys made up the majority.

Of significant interest from the Halifax report was the pattern to save pocket money. Seven in ten children saved some of their pocket money, with one in ten saving all of it. The latter statistic somehow defeats the concept of children being independent with using money even though the money has been gifted. In some cases boys were more likely to be asked to perform chores in return for the pocket money.

By gender, 67 per cent of girls were savers compared with 73 per cent of boys. All of this presents a fairly even position for children to spend their disposable income.

While this annual report now has only one source I understand Halifax’s interest in the saving aspect of the research. While both Walls and Rowntree may have had an interest in brand purchase profiles of the children, it would be of interest to include some questions relating to spend even if just by product category from the current generation of eight to 15-yearolds.

“

Interestingly, one in four children thought their friends got more pocket money than they did, and boys tended to say that they should be given more money. While these figures represent all children and all pocket money, there are regional stats that are worthy of a mention. Children living in London receive the most amount of pocket money at £7.65 followed by those in Scotland who receive £7.27. The smallest weekly amount is received by children in the West Midlands at £5.45.

Given the figures and comments published by the Halifax Pocket Money research, boys and girls appear in general to be alright; not forgetting that 41 % thought they should get more.

The same cannot be said for Grange Hill and its place on CBBC with the BBC’s decision to shift children’s programmes from mainstream BBC 1 and BBC 2.

While moving into the digital world was understandable, the decision was not universally popular. In the relatively short time that has passed since CBeebies and CBBC became digital-only channels, they now appear as the norm, as if has always been this way. However individual situations and circumstances identify the negative consequences of the shift to digital.

Take Grange Hill for example. In the 80s the show broke stories like Zammo McGuire’s heroin addiction but it will no longer be allowed to include the subject of drugs, or even reference drugs as a direct consequence of the move to digital. Grange Hill has a big role in the ever-changing repertoire of pre-teen and indeed, teen viewing. This unfortunate directive restricts the screenwriters in terms of content, and in turn viewers to Grange Hill and their learning experience.

Throughout the 80s Grange Hill addressed many social and lifestyle issues relevant to its viewing profile and age. Unfortunately the BBC will not allow the subject of drugs to be addressed on its children’s channels.

There is now no longer a place within BBC Children’s output to tell these stories to this audience. So are the kids alright? Maybe, maybe not.

Boys still receive more pocket money than girls but the gap has narrowed to an all-time low of just 11p

”

The thorny issue of pocket money is one most parents will be familiar with, but what free cash for children mean for the toy industry?

Clive Crouch

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

JULY 2015

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COVER FEATURE SPIN MASTER

Hogging the air

Play

Spin Master’s exciting range of RC toys is a must-have for retailers. Following the spring 2015 launch of Hyper Disc, a three-foot wide inflatable flying disc that can be filled with either helium or air, the company gives TnP the lowdown on the complete Air Hogs range

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ir Hogs is Spin Master’s leading range of radiocontrolled, free-flying, and air-powered toy airplanes, helicopters, rockets, and cars. Several of Air Hogs toys, especially the remote control models, are designed to be easily flown without any need for assembly.

For more than 15 years Air Hogs has brought innovation and excitement to the world of RC! Air Hogs gives pilots of all ages

and skill levels the opportunity to experience the thrill of flight.

Development by a team you can trust The Air Hogs development team constantly strive to offer the consumer something fresh and different by embracing innovation and pushing boundaries in the pursuit of adding new and exciting features to well established

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Air Hogs gives pilots of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to experience the thrill of flight

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classics. Air Hogs is trusted for offering quality and durability for the mass RC market.

Walking up the walls In the second half of 2015 Air Hogs introduces a twist on its patented Wall Climber Technology with Zero Gravity Drive which lets users drive on the wall, ceiling or floor. Kids tilt the directional controller to steer giving the experience of actually driving the vehicle. Zero Gravity Drive has a colour changing feature with six different colours which is activated by pushing a button on the controller. The driver can also add a turbo boost at the push of a button so they can really put their pedal to the metal, and kids can race against each other for even more fun!

Feel it in the atmosphere The bestselling Atmosphere Axis with its patented Wave Control Technology continues to be a top seller due to it’s easy to fly capabilities which enable it to hover over a hand or object without the use of a controller. Pilots can use the catch stick to toss it to and from in any direction or watch it fly autonomously in space! The Atmosphere Axis comes with

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17 toysnplaythings.co.uk toysnplaythings

“

Spin Master heavily invests in marketing Air Hogs and three separate television commercials will be always on air during peak season to promote Zero Gravity Drive, Atmosphere Axis and Rollercopter

Play

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a handy charging base so that it can be charged anytime and anywhere inside or outside.

Just roll with it The launch of the unstoppable, go-anywhere Air Hogs Rollercopter in autumn 2014 proved a huge success due to its ability to cruise around obstacles and defy gravity with no holds barred. The exterior rolling cage ensures that pilots can navigate across the ground, roll up walls and ceilings and fly through

the air with the greatest of ease, acting as a durable and protective shield against damage and giving new pilots superior control and stability by switching to the EZ control.

Dedicated marketing Spin Master heavily invests in marketing Air Hogs and three separate television commercials will be always on air during peak season to promote Zero Gravity Drive, Atmosphere Axis and Rollercopter.

Digital activity including pre-roll will further help to introduce Zero Gravity Drive to its target audience in the approach to Christmas.

Fresh ranges

Play

Each year, the spring Air Hogs range focuses on outdoor play, targeting more of an impulse purchase especially during good weather! In spring 2015 Air Hogs launched Hyper Disc – a three-foot wide inflatable flying disc that can be filled with either helium or air in order to toss it, bounce it, or perform cool tricks, indoor or outdoor!

Air Hogs also has a history of performing well in stomp rockets and gliders year round.

Play

Contact Spin Master: 01628 535000 www.spinmastertoys.co.uk

JULY 2015

17

VIEW TO TOYS TV

TnP TV continues to bring the industry exclusive looks at the most exciting product coming to market - the perfect companion to kick off Christmas planning

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s the number of episodes moves into the double digits, TnP TV continues to bring the industry an exclusive look at some of the biggest toys on, and coming to, the market.

This month, as major retailers like Argos and Hamleys released their annual Christmas predictions and Top 10 lists, TnP TV was the place to see some of the most highly-anticipated toys in action, including Vivid’s super cute, app-enabled My Friend Freddy Bear.

With such a wide range of products from every category, TnP TV is the perfect companion to TnP magazine to kick start your Christmas planning as we head into the second half of 2015.

“We’ve had an incredible time with all the guests that have already appeared on TnP TV, and there are plenty more to come,” says TnP Editor-in-Chief and TnP TV presenter Mirella Anstey.

“The amount of support TnP TV has received from every corner of the industry, and increasingly consumers, really highlights the value of our weekly TV show. It’s the perfect way to inform and entertain the industry in equal measures. There’s so much I’m bursting to tell everyone about, but I won’t spoil the surprise.

You’ll just have to stay tuned!”

TnP TV airs every week and is delivered directly to your inbox as well as being available on www. toysnplaythings.co.uk.

The only way to be part of TnP TV is to get in touch with Ryan Horwood now, on 01442 289930 or at ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk.

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Play DKL’s Farel Williams with Mirella

David Harms, Green Board Games, with Mirella

Play

TnP TV regular Dr Amanda Gummer

Play

Dave Kelly from Engino demonstrates his range

Vivid’s Catherine Scott chats with Mirella

Fundamentally Children’s Georgina Dalton

VTech’s Rebecca Lazarus demonstrates Flipsies

toysnplaythings.co.uk

WHAT’S Brand spanking new launches from top toy companies to help you sell more!

Glam it up WEST DESIGN 01303 297888 www.westdesignproducts.com

Children always want to look like their pop idols and getting a tattoo is high on that list. Now they can get the look without the pain or the permanence. Faber-Castell’s Creativity For Kids Color-in Glitter Tattoos kit has over 60 tattoo transfers to create temporary body art. With four skin-safe tattoo markers to colour in the designs, and cosmetic glitter to add sparkle, they can be customised to create an individual look. And, for special occasions, there are four rhinestone tattoos for extra glamour.

The Geometric Jewelry kit is also bang on trend, winning a Gold Choice Award from Canada’s Noise on Toys Toy Review. It comes with brightly coloured plastic and metallic beads and stretchy cords to create fun patterned bracelets, earrings and necklaces, with easy-to-follow instructions and all the essentials needed to make 12 pieces of jewellery. Kids can even use the pretty hexagonal packaging as a jewellery box!

West Design Products is the sole UK distributor of Faber-Castell CFK kits.

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The coolest robot LEXIBOOK 07501 770855 www.lexibook.com One of Lexibook’s new stars, Marbo, is a connected Robot-Penguin that’s a fun, cute and multifunctional robotic toy for kids.

Adorable and penguin shaped, Marbo is soft to touch with silicon skin and can be chosen either in pink or blue. Interactive through smartphones and tablets, this new companion has two modes to adapt to all situations and parents’ expectations: a fun and an educational one!

Marbo can answer questions, tell stories and is a real joker when dancing or singing! Kids also love Marbo’s funny voice imitations and reactions.

From the parents’ point of view, Marbo and the connected app provide great educational activities and teach kids in a truly fun way.

With Marbo, kids can learn the alphabet, the numbers, how to count, the basics in calculation, logic and expand their vocabulary.

Marbo can be an interactive and speaking alphabet, and teach how to say many common sentences. With the quiz mode, kids can test Marbo’s knowledge or check their progression. With this new best friend, learning will be the new game of the year.

Marbo’s colony is hatching and migrating to the UK in September.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

NEW Play and learn GALT TOYS 0161 428 9111 www.galttoys.com Galt Toys has added four educational products to its popular Play and Learn range – Playmoney and three arts & craft First Picture products.

Playmoney, suitable for children aged four to eight, is a traditional favourite that has been reintroduced by Galt this year. Children will enjoy learning about money with this play-set of quality coins and notes. The set contains over 100 pieces and an eight-section tray with coin stickers for sorting and for use as a till tray for imaginative play. ay.

Galt’s new First Picture products are suitable for children aged from three years. Each one is designed to encourage learning through play, helping key child development milestones, such as manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination and language development.

First Lacing Pictures contains six fun animal pictures on sturdy board, and eight colourful laces. Children will enjoy threading the chunky colourful laces through the holes in the fun animal pictures, perfect for entertaining little ones on long car journeys.

First Sticker Pictures contains 100 reusable stickers and six picture boards including space, dinosaur and farmyard scenes.

First Mosaic Pictures is a fun activity to encourage colour and shape recognition as children match the foam tiles to the coloured shapes. The set has everything needed to create six colourful mosaics with 4,500 self-adhesive foam shapes.

JULY 2015

Storming ming ahead d CHICCO 01623 750870 70 www.chicco.co.uk .co.uk

Adding to Chicco’s range of pre-school pre-schoo ol trikes and balance bikes, the Yellow Thunder Balance Bike will wow any little one.

Yellow Thunder is the brand new balance bike from Chicco for 2015, which joins the already popular Red Bullet and Pink Arrow models in the range. A sporty bike with a semi hydro formed rear fork and double-place Cross style fork, the two-wheeled design encourages children to learn key skills including balance and coordination, which helps them in their first step towards using a bicycle with pedals.

Made from ultra light metal, it is lightweight and easy to transport.

The soft, no slip saddle also offers a comfortable and safe ride, ensuring parents’ minds are at ease. Made with EVA tyres and a 12” frame, Yellow Thunder is suitable for ages three-five years old.

It just clicks BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 www.bigjigstoys.com New colourful wooden Click Blocks are the hero product of the Bigjigs construction range for 2015. Now in stock and ready to order, the assorted colours and shapes of each of the three sets are sure to catch the attention of budding builders. The chunky blocks are perfectly sized for small hands to grasp and build with, they ‘click’ together firmly and can easily be detached to start a new design.

The 40-piece Intermediate Pack makes a fantastic starter set of building bricks – a comprehensive set that can be added to with the Zesty Basic Pack and Primary Basic Pack, each with a further 20 blocks.

The Bigjigs Toys construction range encourages children to use their imagination while developing their motor and handeye coordination skills through play.

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RETAIL

OPINION

Toy talk Retailers are important to us here at TnP. We love chatting to them each month to get industry insights into what is selling well and we ask some key questions...

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

MARK STEWART Wise Owl Toys, Worcester, Worcestershire

LAURIE SMITH

The team at Wise Owl Toys is passionate about educationally beneficial toys, and have 20 years of toy retail experience between them. They are also the reigning champs in Esdevium’s Dobble Challenge

Jake’s Toys, Petersfield, Hampshire

Have you noticed an upsurge in outdoor/ summer toy sales with summer coming?

It has picked up a little on the days we’ve had good weather. We have begun moving some of our outdoor ranges up the front of the store and into more visible positions too.

What are your current top three selling products/lines/brands?

Bigjigs rail lines in general are popular.

Orchard always goes down well too, across the board. We’ve also just brought in a new construction toy called Magformers which I have high hopes for.

It’s a nice, clever twist on construction and seems really interesting.

NAOMI SIMPSON Forget-Me-Not Toys and Books, Warrington, Cheshire Have you noticed an upsurge in outdoor/summer toy sales with summer coming?

This time of year, it’s not necessarily the outdoor toys that sell the best for us. It’s more about the toys that people can take on the train or plane. The Scribble Down Activity Packs and Galt’s Water Magic range are good examples.

Do you offer a Christmas savings club or wish list and how does it work?

We do a Christmas savings and reserve club. People can either pay into it throughout the year and then spend it nearer Christmas, or reserve a bigger item and pay it off in instalments.

“Business is excellent right now,” says Laurie who has just finished moving into new, larger premises after three successful years at the original store Do you offer a Christmas savings club or wish list and how does it work?

We do a savers club throughout the year - customers can come in and add money to their account whenever.

In September, when the kids go back to school, that’s when it really picks up for Christmas. We also have a gift list service, mainly for birthdays, which works a bit like a wedding gift list but for toys. We’ll hold toys for customers for Christmas too if they’re looking for something in particular.

What do you think will be particularly popular for Christmas, and what’s informing that decision?

You do have to know quite far in advance, but right now it’s tricky to tell. Minecraft far exceeded our expectations last year, so you really have to keep an eye on things.

I know we’ll want to have a good amount of the latest LEGO ranges ready though.

Are movies moving a lot of product? What in particular?

Yes, Jurassic World has started to sell well, such as the figures from Hasbro, and there seems to be a lot of interest surrounding it. Dinosaurs are always good sellers. Minions and Despicable Me are popular too.

What are your current top three selling products/ lines/brands?

LEGO Ninjago is really popular and the big thing for us right now. All of Sylvanian Families has picked up massively across the range since we’ve moved into our new premises. NERF is also another big winner this time of year.

What do you think will be particularly popular for Christmas, and what’s informing that decision?

We’re not even looking that far forward yet! I have noticed that consumer confidence in general is much stronger though.

What are your current top three selling products/ lines/brands?

Depesche’s Top Model is super popular as is LEGO. All of Orchard Toys’ games also sell really well.

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ttoysnplaythings.co.uk o

Tweet Talk Share your thoughts with us and keep up to date with all things TnP on Twitter @toysnplaythings

KATERIN PEZESHKIAN The Toy Station, Richmond, Surrey The Toy Station is gearing up for a milestone next year, celebrating 20 years in toy retail. The toy shop’s customer have included A-lister Angelina Jolie, who stopped by with her children in 2011.

Have you noticed an upsurge in outdoor/summer toy sales with summer coming?

Yes we have sold a lot of frisbees, croquet sets, footballs and stomp rockets. All the toys that are good for the garden and park really. Super Soakers also sold really well when it was hot.

Do you offer a Christmas savings club or wish list and how does it work?

We don’t offer a savers club, but we do run promotions throughout the year to help people save as they spend. Currently we have a promotion giving customers a £5 voucher if they spend over £50, and 10% off all our dress-up lines.

What do you think will be particularly popular for Christmas, and what’s informing that decision?

We have our LEGO order locked in because that has to be done very early and will sell well. As for the rest, I’ll be keeping my eye on what is being TV advertised and wait for the reps to come and visit in August.

Are movies moving a lot of product? What in particular?

Jurassic World has really injected some excitement into dinosaur toys. Hasbro’s Jurassic World dinosaur figures have been popular, and it has had a knock-on effect with our generic dinosaur lines. Minions is also doing well, and Star Wars has always been a big license for us.

What are your current top three selling products/lines/brands?

A new range of Globber scooters is selling well because of the weather, and The Irish Fairy Door Company’s little Fairy Doors have done well too.

We’ve just had new BKids baby toys in, which have taken off, and I have a fantastic new construction range coming in next week from Engino.

MARK MITCHELL Crocodile, Cirencester, Gloucestershire Mark has just launched the online shop for Crocodile and is busy growing its online presence through social media Have you noticed an upsurge in outdoor/summer toy sales with summer coming?

Obviously we’re selling more now than earlier in the year, but I was hoping our outdoor ranges would’ve taken off a little better than they have so far.

Are movies moving a lot of product? What in particular?

Yes, I think they are. Jurassic World has given a definite boost to not only the Jurassic branded items like LEGO’s range, but in a broader sense to dinosaur-themed toys like Schleich’s dinosaur figures. Star Wars will be huge when it releases later in the year.

What are your current top three selling products/lines/brands?

Our top-selling brand has to be LEGO, which accounts for around a third of our daily turnover. In a broader sense, traditional wooden toys are really popular right now too, and Playmobil comes in closely behind that.

Carla Hubbard and Zara Ford

JULY 2015

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RETAIL INTERVIEW JUST WILLIAMS

Just toys Just Williams first opened its doors in Herne Hill, South London in 2007. Owned and run by proprietor Vicky Brown and now with four stores to their name, this family-run business embraces all that is toys Vicky, thanks for taking the time to speak with us – tell us a little about the history of Just Williams?

Just Williams was first opened in Herne Hill by a dear friend Jacquie Williams, hence the name, in October 2007. After 14 months of opening, Jacquie moved abroad and sold the business to me. Two years later we opened our second branch in East Dulwich, two years after that we opened our third branch in Clapham South and last August we opened our fourth branch in Beckenham.

We know you are a family-run business, who is involved?

I run the business on a day-today basis and my husband is our finance director overseeing all financial aspects of the business like running payroll, processing our VAT returns etc.

When we are short-handed we

We asked…

regularly pull in all members of our family including my brother and my children. My eldest son is looking forward to working over the summer holidays.

You now have four stores, is expansion something that comes naturally or is it something that you actively seek out?

A bit of both. When I first took over the business I had some definite ideas and views on where I wanted our branches to be. Some of those branches we actively sought and others fell into our laps.

Tell us about your staff, how many people work for you?

Across all four branches we have 24 employees, of which the majority work part-time. We have a really diverse range of staff from mothers and students to retirees, which is what I think makes it work so well.

What are your top tips for a novice toy buyer?

My top tip for a new buyer is to go with your gut and listen to your customers.

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Is staff training important to you and how do you go about that?

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Staff training is vital and something that is an on-going process. We have a training programme that all employees go through when they initially join focusing on our systems and customer service

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Staff training is vital and something that is an on-going process. We have a training programme that all employees go through when they initially join focusing on our systems and customer service.

The rest of our training mainly focuses on product knowledge which is key. We run quarterly training sessions for all staff which are informative but also a social event for our staff across the branches to meet and build relationships. These sessions have varied hugely from quiz nights obviously focused all on toys and brands, to playing board games, a science evening to presentations from suppliers.

In addition, I produce regular product updates which are distributed to all employees. As and when possible we try to organise for as many of our staff as possible to attend trade fairs.

What techniques do your staff use to get the maximum amount of spend from customers?

Our staff are all very good at asking customers if they would like any add-ons such as wrapping paper, birthday cards.

How has business been for you so far this year?

So far this year sales are slightly up – fingers crossed it continues.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Best-selling licences: What sort of initiatives do you use to get customers through the door?

We use a variety of initiatives to attract customers, from traditional advertising, social media, newsletters and offers to in-store events. We attend a lot of school fairs running stalls selling our products as well as running arts and craft activities providing us with an ideal platform to meet new and existing customers.

Do you find demand for stock is different in each of your stores?

Yes, demand for products does vary slightly from branch to branch but it tends to be due to current trends in different schools. For example last month in our East Dulwich branch Moon Balls was the hot item where as Rubix Cubes were hot in our Herne Hill branch.

Overall, what ranges are selling

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles My Little Pony Avengers well across your stores?

LEGO, Schleich and Great Demand Gizmos arts and craft/science for products kits always sell well across the four stores. Recently we have does vary slightly from seen an increase in sales by Plan Toys and Nerf blasters.

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branch to branch... last month in our East Dulwich branch Moon Balls was the hot item where as Rubix Cubes were hot in our Herne Hill branch

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And what are your top-three selling products currently?

Shopkins, when we can get them, Play-Doh four packs and Avengers figures.

What about licensed toys, which ranges have captured consumers?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and My Little Pony have been steady lines this year, but Avengers products are flying too.

VICKY SAYS… In terms of collectables, customers are asking for Shopkins, Rubix Cubes, Moon Balls and Match Attax.

JULY 2015

25

RETAIL INTERVIEW JUST WILLIAMS

Top-three selling products: Shopkins Play-Doh four packs Avengers figures

so by moving things around you are also bringing the items to customer’s attention.

What is your biggest challenge as a toy shop owner?

I would presume the biggest challenge to a toy shop owner is the same for any small business - rising overheads, shrinking margins and competition.

Collectables seems to be having a bit of a moment lately, what are customers asking for?

Shopkins, Rubix Cubes, Moon Balls and Match Attax.

In terms of what you offer customers, do you stock addons like party ranges, stationery, books etc?

We are always looking for different items that children would want and these items are not always categorised as a toy. As a result we sell lots of stationery, art sets, books, party goods, helium balloons and we are always open to new ideas.

If you could compare the first half of 2014 to 2015, has there been any change in buying tempo?

I feel that suppliers are providing many more offers to incentivise buying. However, this year I am trying to change my buying

Most popular licences: Shopkins Minecraft Despicable Me Paw Patrol How To Train Your Dragon

26

habits to ensure that we have a continual stream of new products ensuring that the stores look fresh.

“

Is online something you are looking to invest in?

Not at the moment but I never say never!

Looking towards Christmas, is there any product you have very high hopes for?

I think anything Star Wars will be a big hit, K’NEX K-Force and the 3D Maker from Mookie.

Recently, we worked for a launch with a supplier in which we filled up a window with blind bags, and believe me, there were a lot of bags needed to fill the space, but it did look pretty impressive

Savvy consumers are turning their minds towards the festive period, do Just Williams run a Christmas Club or some sort of incentive scheme to help ease the financial burden?

Our EPOS system allows us easily to run a Christmas Club and we have in the past but this is not something that we actively promote.

If you had to choose a favourite toy from your current range, what would it be?

That is a hard one as there are so many great toys at the moment but I like Kinetic Sand, Glitzy Globes and I love the new Playmobil Playgroup and Ferris Wheel.

”

What works well when it comes to merchandising your store?

We try to ensure that all our products are placed in a logical way to make it easy for customers to find things.

Moving items around keep the shop look fresh, and customers tend to look in the same area

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Š 2015 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

HIGH STREET

HIGHS

How do you compare?

Competition is a fact-of-life for retailers. In this month’s column, The Entertainer’s MD Gary Grant tells us how he and his team deal with it and what measures they take to ensure they are giving customers the very best offering and service they can

C

“

We stick to what we do well.

And that is range, price and customer service. We don’t make knee jerk changes

”

ompetition is everywhere, it doesn’t matter what type of business you run, you always have competitors.

Never has The Entertainer’s Gary Grant operated a business without other competition in close proximity. When he opened the first Entertainer in Amersham in the early ‘80s, he was up against three other retailers.

“Traditional toy shops were very common in the early ‘80s, there were two shops in Amersham exclusively selling toys and another store which had a wide selection of toys.”

For The Entertainer, there never was such a thing as being the only toy shop in town, says Gary. That luxury just did not exist.

“We would not react with unplanned price activity – we already offer great value. Customers know it’s about more than just price.

Range, store ambience and customer service are our distinctive hallmarks. Our Area Managers are always on hand to support the teams to deliver on all points.”

Interestingly, Gary says training staff to be responsive and onsong is also crucial.

“Never talk about or run down your competitors on the shop floor, staff should not talk badly to customers about the competition. We want the customers to make up their own minds as we excel with our offering.”

Don’t be scared of the competition Who is the competition?

In the early years, a naïve retailer may have been forgiven for thinking their only competitor was a rival toy shop but times have changed drastically.

“Competition is everywhere,” agrees Gary. “Toys have become a commodity, the industry is very seasonal so many people become involved with our produc products in the key season. Online retailers, grocers, department stor stores – they are all competitors, including out of town retail parks. parks.”

Key for any retailer is keeping your y customer happy and getting footfall through the door, even in the face of stiff competition.

So how does The Entertainer re react if a new outlet opens close to them? How do they keep people peop walking through the door?

“We stick to what we do well,” ssays Gary. “And that is range, price and customer service. We don’t make knee jerk changes.

We assess the shop, make sur sure we are on our game and review with our staff what w we do best and then we continue to be the best.”

On top of making sure ttheir stores are competing to the very best of their cap capabilities, Gary says they also use other avenues to attr attract customers too.

“We will often also do ssome local advertising, appea increase character appearances in-store, host activity days or use door-drop m media, just to ensure we stay fresh in people’s minds minds.”

It’s not personal, iit’s business So what’s a retail no-n no-no for The Entertainer when facing a competitor head-to-head? he Slashing prices, Gary tells us, is not something som The Entertainer embraces.

For toy shop owners who feel under-pressure as they face down majors, Gary believes that smaller retailers can still compete and, in fact, he says you can turn it to your advantage. “Be on your game,” he advises. “Make your shop interesting, maintain great and engaging merchandising, greet your customers and engage with them, make them feel special.”

To make maximum impact, Gary suggests making small but doable changes which will help you stand-out in the eyes of the consumer. “Go the extra mile for them, carry things to their car, get talked about, and make your shop an interesting and fun place that kids want to visit again and again. And focus on your strengths.”

To keep your shop front-of-mind with consumers and to matchup to the competition, Gary says investment is key.

“Invest in your shop, keep high standards and embrace new technology.” He adds that online is vitally important, describing it as a “24/7 shop front”.

“Keep your website up-to-date, you wouldn’t have last season’s top toy left in your window display, so make sure it doesn’t get top billing on your website either.”

TnP would like to congratulate Gary on receiving the BTHA’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the recent industry day. Well deserved! He is pictured with BTHA Chairman, Phil Ratcliffe.

RETAIL

OPINION

Why LEGO works and why it matters T

here’s a reason that LEGO is so good commercially. mercially. ade to It is a chameleon. This is a toy that can be made herever fit any location and will seem appropriate wherever it is. Walk into John Lewis on Oxford Street at the moment and the point is abundantly clear. urth The toy department is actually high up on the fourth es are floor and unless you know about it (and the chances that if you’re a John Lewis shopper you will), then itt could oy easily be missed. In this respect it’s a little like the toy p of the department in nearby Selfridges, which is at the top imes shop. But in both emporia it’s a fair bet that dwell times ed are long and therefore the toy space will be stumbled across at some point. you When this happens in John Lewis, the first thingyou ands see is Darth Vader. Next to the fallen Jedi Knight stands iny C-3PO, yellowish in colour, although not quite as shiny e two as the original. Both are in fact LEGO statues of the sci-fi legends and while they are both quite fetching, there is nothing too remarkable about what has been done, so used have we become to LEGO being deployed to replicate real and fictional worlds.

The clever bit is the pillars. Shops of any scale tend to have these in the middle of the selling floor - they support the ceiling, don’t you know? In the toy department on the fourth floor of John Lewis on Oxford Street there are two of these to either side of the escalator as the shopper arrives on the floor. In most of this shop the pillars are covered in white plaster, bland and unobtrusive, as the best pillars should be. In this instance, however, they have been covered in red LEGO bricks.

The two red pillars act a little like a proscenium arch, providing an introductory curtain raiser for the sci-fi characters. But what they in fact manage to do is grab the eye in a manner that ensures that you know that this part of the store is about your old friend LEGO, and nothing else matters.

And this is why LEGO is the ultimate stealth toy. In John Lewis it has been used not just as something that might be wanted by children (and very possibly adults), but which also has the capacity to provide texture and context to displays – or, in effect, to be a store fit-out in its own right.

Now try and think of other toys that have the capacity to shapeshift in order to make a statement and to fit in with the ambient surroundings. Managed? Very possibly not. It is in fact a pretty tall order to imagine any other toy that behaves in this manner. With LEGO, it is possible to create a distinct world and to make it work for any

shopper group.

Many other brands have tried to do something similar, fashioning worlds that use toys both as props and as the point of an environment in their own right.

And in general it’s an approach that has not borne fruit.

If you want something to work you need to anticipate shopper tastes and requirements rather than putting something that is broadly unknown into a space and hoping for the best.

Time was when LEGO was little more than a few bricks, with the occasional transparent one when you needed to build a house with see-through windows and that was about it.

In 2015, superheroes, super buildings and fictional characters can all made from specialist bricks that have been created for the purpose.

And with the exception, possibly, of tiny plastic soldiers and the cast of Toy Story, how many toys have successfully been turned into film franchises?

‘Adapt or die’ is one of those phrases that is regularly trotted out when retailers sit around with strategy consultants wondering what to do next.

Yet very few actually do adapt and the reason that LEGO works is in large measure down to its ability to be almost all things to all people. Which points perhaps to the contradictory lesson in all of this – if you want to stand out, blend in, or at least make your offer appropriate to the town you trade in and the demographic that you are supposed to be targeting.

Think before you leap and make sure that when you do leap, shoppers will be in place to accept what has been done.

LEGO can be found in a huge amount of retailers, but why does it work so well? John Ryan breaks it down

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.

JULY 2015

29

THE INDEPENDENT

OPINION

In the face of competition What do you do when you are faced with low-priced competitors?

P

romotions - they really get me. I spend a fair bit of time checking out other retailers who could potentially have an impact on my sales.

At the end of the day, I need to provide for my family, and have always felt I have a responsibility to keep my business afloat in order to help my staff do the same for their families.

Within a number of miles from any one of my stores I have Smyths, The Entertainer, Tesco, Toys R Us, Argos, Home Bargains and B&M Bargains, amongst others. These would usually be the stores I would visit to see what is going on out there.

Over the years I have been fascinated to see how some of these retailers have

Best sellers VOLUME:

1: LEGO Minifigures - LEGO 2: Frozen Fash’ems - Character Options 3: Shopkins 5 Pack - Flair VALUE: 1: Little Live Pets Bird Cage Character Options 2: Elsa’s Ice Castle - LEGO 3: Snow Glow Elsa - Jakks Pacific

improved their presentation and ranging, and also how some have gone severely downhill during the same period. I don’t want to pick on anyone, but I used to see one of these as a really good retailer but without the selection to have any real impact on me through the year. Recent visits, however, show me they have changed as they seem to have become extremely good at the merchandising and presentation of their ranges - so much so that a couple of things they have done gave me ideas for my own stores.

On the other hand, some stores seem incapable of actually putting a product the right way up on a shelf. I recently saw an item lying on the floor, and being diligent, with just a touch of OCD, I put it back on the shelf but neatly at the front of the shelf, with it facing forward and not upside down, I later worried it may have ruined the look of chaos which seemed to be normality.

Anyway, back to this promotion issue. I used to grind my teeth and worry about the run-up to Christmas in fear of what the majors were going to do with key products for the year.

Promotion to me seems to be for no apparent reason other than to give money away, as suppliers seem to be under-called on a lot of products, so the demand is higher than can be filled in many instances.

This makes me wonder why you would

discount items such as these.

Avengers: Age of Ultron was released a couple of months ago and a lot of the majors were around 25% off the range. Why? We bought in some products and it sold really well at full price, but we were asked regularly why we were more expensive than other retailers. To be honest I am just about fed up with having to explain the market share battles that are blamed for keeping prices low and promotions high. I am extremely lucky to have good staff and a good customer base that stay loyal to me, but I fear for others out there who are simply trying to make a living and are not in the same situation as me.

I suppose a lot of this is none of my business, and I certainly can’t imagine what a bit of buying power does for the majors, but there just seems to be more and more promotions. At the end of the day, giving 25% off items that will fly off the shelves just seems tragic for our industry and I do try to understand that I have never been in the situation (thankfully) where I need to worry about my percentage of market share (which I would estimate to be a whopping 0.001%) but I am in business to make money, and am being hampered by those who seem not to care about that aspect of business at all.

THE SECRET SUPPLIER

Between a rock and a hard place... life at retail This month The Independent is beating a very familiar drum. How does any independent retailer compete against the discounting competition?

T

his has been a familiar problem for retailers for many years going back to the launch of the Argos catalogue.

What makes the current situation more complex is that those retailers who demand “first to market” opportunities now also want to be “first to discount” All this is done with the active help and assistance of us suppliers who are anxious that their brands should gain some market leverage to the extent that a 25% price discount is now the most important part of the marketing pitch.

Why is this happening? The fact is that we greedy consumers will not part with our hard earned cash unless we know we are getting a promotion. In 2014 over one third of all toys were sold on promotion and although The Independent thankfully has a few loyal customers who will pay his price, the fact is no one likes to pay more than the going price.

Right now retail is a challenging place to be if you are one of the big high street names losing millions every year. Tesco, Sainsbury’s,

30

Morrison’s and even John Lewis have found the going very tough as they react to competition from privately-owned competition.

It is interesting that in the US market, independent retailers offer a very different product mix which clearly differentiates themselves from their big multiple competition. Here in the UK we all know that some independent retailers are prepared to go head to head with the competition, but sadly we all know who has the deepest pockets.

As ever The Independent needs to have a canny buying and pricing strategy so as to give the general impression of offering value promotions but at the same time making the best blended margin mix. Easier said than done, but Toymaster do seem capable of helping retailers achieve this delicate balance in an incredibly difficult and competitive market.

More than most I think The Independent truly knows he is between a rock and a hard place as are almost all retailers in these tough deflationary times.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

BUSINESS

DRIVER

Maximise life I

n 1977 I made my third best career decision and 30,000 days. Most people work for joined Procter & Gamble as a marketing assistant. about 44-45 years and, allowing The training was fantastic and over the next four for weekends and holidays, this and a half years I built the foundations for my career equates to approximately 10,000 in marketing and sales. working days. So a third of your life While Procter & Gamble was a great learning is wrapped up in your job. Given this experience, I didn’t find the job very fulfilling. I time commitment, feeling fulfilled in your job was working on Pampers disposable nappies and certainly helps you to be at your best more keeping babies bottoms’ dry was not my idea of of the time. I covered this topic in a previous fun. So in 1982 I made my best career decision article, but it is worth repeating the advice in and joined the toy industry and quickly became the context of maximising your enjoyment of life. passionate about it.

So what should you be doing to really enjoy your career?

It was easy to get excited when you were working Firstly, make sure you are in an industry that you enjoy. My with brands like Trivial Pursuit and Care Bears. The youngest daughter has always been passionate about clothes. products were fun, the industry was fast moving and When she graduated she wanted to get a job, any job, in the Toy Fairs were the highlight of the the fashion industry. She is now in the buying year. I had found an industry where I department of ASOS. She loves her job, she is could fulfill my career and really enjoy energised and joyful in her career.

I had found ambitious, myself. Importantly, I met some great So are you happy and passionate about the an industry people in the industry and some of toy industry? If not, find another industry or where I could them are my best friends today. profession that you can get passionate about.

Over the next 30 years, I was Secondly, you may be passionate about the fulfill my career fortunate enough to have worked toy industry but not the company you work and really enjoy in both UK and European roles for for.

To really enjoy your job you need to be myself. companies such as Fisher-Price, aligned to the company direction and values.

Importantly, I Mattel and Hasbro. I also wanted to Equally you need to be learning and growing met some great experience starting up a business and in your career. This keeps you interested and people in the I got this opportunity with Hedstrom motivated in your work. If either of the things UK. aren’t happening for you, then you should do industry and Then in 2012 I made my second something about it. some of them best career decision and took Thirdly, are you working in the right are my best early retirement. My time in the toy department within your company? If you are friends today industry had been very fulfilling and a frustrated sales person who wants to move had taken up a large part of my life into marketing or the other way round, then during these years. I didn’t mind talk to your boss. this because I really enjoyed the don’tt ask you don don’tt get get”..

As they say, “if if you don challenges that I had taken on, but it had limited my Maximising g your enjoyment of life is about enjoying ability to pursue my passions outside of work. Thus the journey and your career is a big part of this my decision to retire early. journey.

The last two years have enabled me to re-address Equally, ass discussed over the last few the work-life balance and focus on getting more articles, your ur emotional connection with time with the family, pursuing my hobbies and your home, shared experiences, family enjoying more holidays. life and pursuing suing your passions are all Making sure you have a fulfilling career is critical essential elements ements to optimising this to maximising your enjoyment of life. You only need journey called ed life. It’s the only one to do the maths to appreciate this. The average life you are going ng to get, so make the expectancy in the UK is around 81 years or nearly most of it!

“

Making the right career decisions will, ultimately, lead to a happy life, says John Harper

”

From his beginnings at Palitoy where he launched their Video Games software om in 1998, to business, to MD at Fisher Price in the 90s, starting up Hedstrom more recently, European 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!

JULY 2015

31

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

One for the boys Boys toys are having a moment with dinosaurs, superheroes and everything inbetween. TnP checks out the hottest trends

O

h to be a boy! Life is a constant surprise when you are a child and none more so than when you are a boy. Do you like football or cars or blasters or space? Do you like them all? The choice is endless and retailers have to be on top of their game to keep relevant stock on the shelves.

Boys toys are having a particularly strong year with a host of a properties making an impact at retail. Hopes are high for Vivid’s Tracy Island play set, all things dinosaur have been boosted by the box-office smashing Jurassic Park film and superheroes are never off the agenda, helped by Avengers, Spider-Man and Batman V Superman to name but a few.

And then we have Transformers, Thunderbirds, Paw Patrol, Ugglys Pet Shop, Minecraft, SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the list is endless and they all add up to make some exciting prospects for retailers.

32

The suppliers say…

RETAIL COMMENT: “We find that we sell more toys to boys than girls in general. In our experience, boys tend to want toys a little later into their childhood and don’t really grow out of things like blasters and bows and arrows.

Nerf is really popular for boys and we sell quite a few cap guns too. Even though kids these days are getting into their smartphones and technology at an earlier age, things like science kits, kites and stomp rockets never go out of fashion, and boys still love them.”

Katerin Pezeshkian, Co-Owner, The Toy Station.

“Boys toys are doing really well for Schleich this year with the introduction of many new ranges,” says Laura Bull, Schleich’s Marketing Manager. “The brand new DC Comics collection has already received encouraging results, plus with the introduction of eye-catching new dragons to the world of knights, and ten new dinosaurs so far, sales are positive for the boy’s brands. We’re almost 40% up on dinosaurs alone.”

That is certainly not a bad We’re statistic for anyone to hear!

Character Options is also coming almost up trumps with their boys offering.

40% up on Marketing Manager Mark Hunt dinosaurs says that the relaunch of Scoobyalone Doo in January worked well for the company. “The 5-inch scale action Laura Bull, figures offer great value and have Schleich driven the volume. Minecraft continues to sell week in week out, the demand remains high with a number of retailers showing an increase year-on-year. Ugglys Pet Shop launched in May with a comprehensive campaign across TV, online and print. Sales are Hasbro extremely positive, with 101 characters in Series 1 alone we expect to establish Uggly Pet Shop as a leading boys collectable.”

Simba Smoby’s Marketing and

“

”

Licensing Manager Alex Kovacevic described the company’s boys toys as performing “fantastically”. He adds: “Our core items at key price points are performing very well.

The vehicles category in particular has been especially strong for us.”

On trend The never-ending battle to manage, manipulate and predict consumer demands is always on a good retailer’s mind. So knowing what is going to be hot before the consumer does is vital. The same fight is on the supplier’s hands. But what do they see as being in-vogue now? Flair’s Marketing Manager Anne-Marie Noon singles out the heroes as being big-news for boys.

“Action heroes remain a dominant category. This can be seen with our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collections which, across the board, are doing well. In particular the new Mutations segment has got off to a great start owing to its additional play pattern.

The mutating trend also follows through into Mutant Mania, another new boys’ collectable in the portfolio. A further trend that is prevalent in the boys’ market is the success of digital platforms as toy licenses such as Minecraft. We are expecting this to be evident later in the year when we launch the World of Warriors master toy line.”

Character is looking towards film and digital too, with Mark saying: “Major film releases such as Avengers and Transformers remain one important factor in the boys

toysnplaythings.

action market and I think that trend will continue for years to come.

Digital properties are also a popular trend and Minecraft remains one of the strongest boys properties which is astonishing considering the level of marketing spend behind the brand.”

Setting digital aside, we all know dinosaurs are big news, as confirmed by Schleich’s Laura.

“Without a doubt, dinosaurs are number one in the boys category for us at the moment. I think this is also helped by the fact it’s such a huge year for dinosaurs. But this is followed by the superheroes from DC Comics, we’ve had a really great response.”

Another company benefitting from the dino-trend is Simba with Alex revealing: “2015 will definitely be a big year for dinosaurs with the release of Jurassic World. We’ve even seen a big uplift in sales of our generic dinosaur lines in response to the predicted trend.”

Consumer needs As we all know, the female of the species is different to the male. So making a toy appeal to the relevant consumer is vital – this is where something like packaging and merchandising comes into its own, so design and colourways must be taken seriously.

“Of course,” agrees Laura.

“Especially when it’s licensed as

Schleich

Prince Lionheart

“

A further trend that is prevalent in the boys’ market is the success of digital platforms as toy licenses…

We are expecting this to be evident later in the year when we launch the World of Warriors master toy line

Anne-Marie Noon, Flair

” JULY 2015

there will be a style guide to follow! But in all seriousness, yes, choosing colours and designs that inherently appeal to boys is important.”

And Flair’s Anne-Marie agrees: “Despite what many would like us to believe, yes design and colourways are important! We have to take this into account when creating our products.”

Making a product pop on the shelf is vital, agrees Alex: “In any category stand-out at retail is essential. With boys you need big, bold colours and exciting designs that grab the attention and the imagination. Being clear and bold in your messaging is also vital - what does the toy in the box do for the little boy who’s looking at it?”

The future With boys toys looking strong for 2015, retailers can be confident that there are strong lines to put on shelves, and NPD figures should confirm what we already know – this year is for the boys.

CONSUMER COMMENT: Tadhg (4) tells us about his favourite things: “I like tractors and space and Paw Patrol. My granny has a dog named Winnie and I think she could be in Paw Patrol except that she can’t talk. I play with my LEGO sometimes too but my favourite thing is my tractor.” actor.

Informatively, Tadhg dhg also told TnP: “I like space too. If you ou look into the sky y you can see the moon oon at night and the e sun in the day, but ut they are not the e same, so I hope ope grownups ps don’t get confused.” nfused.”

33

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Lookin’ uggly CHARACTER OPTIONS 01616339800 www.character-online.co.uk Character Options’ boys’ toys line-up takes a gross turn with a new collectable that’s positively uggly, while it’s all action ahead as kids take aim at an approaching Zombie and learn how to tame a clutch of imposing arachnids.

The Ugglys Pet Shop has introduced a whole new species to the world of boy’s collectable characters. The heart of the collection will be 101 gross and downright disgusting pet characters. Represented in groups, there are many themes to collect with the rare “Stickies” and “Rusty Pets” at the top of the proverbial pile. Added to this will be a range of playsets and vehicles such as the Gross Home Packs that can be combined and stacked into one multistory Pet Store, and the Dirty Dog Wash van with over 30 gross sounds.

Launched in May, The Ugglys Pet Shop is supported by a mega marketing drive. TV advertising, and a four month long kid’s press campaign is added to with the rollout of Ugglys Pet Shops FSDUs, in store sampling and a national newspaper giveaway campaign.

Scooby-Doo has been a key brand for Character for well over a decade and 2015 is looking to be a landmark year for the partnership with the reintroduction of the Mystery Solving Crew theme that is a proven favourite.

The spring launch encompassed fully articulated five-inch scale action figures, revitalised packaging style plus a competitive pricing structure to deliver volume sales. In autumn the new hero line will bring the canine sleuth to life like never before. Crazy Legs Scooby-Doo is the craziest most fun Scooby-Doo feature toy to date. This Scooby-Doo has super-fast moving 360 degree rotating legs. With a dedicated TV commercial for autumn, Crazy Legs Scooby Doo is tipped to have fans in a spin too and be top of everyone’s wish list!

In autumn a boy’s love affair with Teksta the Puppy will take a menacing twist with the launch of the Teksta Scorpion. This new species for the Teksta brand 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.

Target practice takes on new twist at Character with ZOMBIE BLAST, the shoot-em-up game where kids have to defeat the walking Zombie before the time runs out.

If it’s eight legged friends that they yearn for then Character has 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 light up eyes that change colour to indicate what mode your spider is in. Wild Pets will be available either as a single spider pack or complete with its very own habitat.

Do Doing it for the boys H. GROSSMAN GROSSM LTD 0141 613 2525 www.ozbozz.co.uk has an amazing HGL ha selection of toys selecti boys, from the for boy Elektra rrange of colour co-ordinated scooters, co-ordinate pogos, quad boots, helmets, pog skateboards and inline skates to the Torq range for older boys, a scooter designed for those with a bit more expertise.

Of course there are a wide variety of pocket money items including the best selling Alien Eggs.

For younger boys who want to jostle for pole position Car Trax has everything they need. This chunky flexible track connects and interconnects so that young children can collect the various sets and connect them all together if they like.

Designed in bright colours for children of 3 and up, each set includes it’s own vehicle.

Pop culture UNDERGROUND TOYS 01708 372727 www.underground-toys.com From Age of Ultron to Doctor Who, Harry Potter to Adventure Time, what boy wouldn’t love the Pop! vinyl figures brought to Europe by Underground Toys? Not to mention the company’s new Marvel talking plush range.

With new lines ‘popping’ up constantly (no pun intended), there is no rest for the team at Underground Toys when it comes to the very collectable three-and-three-quarter-inch Pop! vinyl figures. Taking the world by storm, there really is a Pop! licence that resonates with every boy, no matter their age! Nine Doctor Who Pop! vinyl figures have come to market this month, Harry Potter Pop! is due for release shortly and recently released Age of Ultron and Adventure Time Pop! ranges have already seen great success in retailers across Europe.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Beads galore!

Pocket monsters

DKL MARKETING 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk New to Hama collection this year is the exciting Disney Cars Ice Racing Gift Box. Kids will be thrilled as they create their favourite Cars characters and bring them to life in bead form. The Large Gift Box comes complete with 4000 beads, two pegboards, a design sheet, instructions and ironing paper. Also available is the Disney Cars Ice Racing blister pack, which also delivers excellent creative play value.

For boys, the best selling Space Mobile from Hama is always a top choice. Using this kit, children can create their very own solar system from colourful Hama beads.

Designs can then be made into a mobile using the display ring included.

Also don’t miss other fun gift boxes with themes such as Football and Pirates, and the exciting new Construction Vehicles.

POKÉMON www.pokemon.co.uk 02073817025

Rule the rails BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 www.bigjigstoys.co.uk Bigjigs Rail is a collection of more than 150 wooden railway toys that have inspired young minds since 2005. This year Bigjigs Rail embraces the dinosaur trend with the introduction of several new dino-themed rail accessories, including the wonderfully detailed Dino Train, Ribcage Tunnel, Bronto Rise, Dino Crane and T-Rex Tunnel.

Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and has grown into one of the most popular and successful entertainment properties in the world.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is one of the brand’s key pillars. Distributed in the UK

by Esdevium, the TCG range has seen rapid growth.

This year Master Toy partner Tomy has launched a range of figures and toys to support Pokémon’s latest releases for the Nintendo 3DS, Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire. A carefully designed range of articulated figures has been produced in relative scale so children can accurately recreate the world of Pokémon.

More than meets the eye HASBRO 020 8569 1234 www.hasbro.co.uk

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One moment they’re high-performance vehicles racing down the highway, and the next moment they’re towering robots charging into battle. Kids have seen the Transformers do it on TV and in the movies and now they can bring home the magic of that conversion with the Transformers: Robots in Disguise Mega Optimus Prime. It converts from robot to vehicle in three quick steps and can connect with Mini-Con figures to form weapons and armour for even bigger battles.

The Transformers Robots in Disguise Super Bumblebee Figure is a high-tech figure with the cunning to outwit and the speed to outmaneuver his Decepticon enemies.

His lights flash as he says things like “Time to bring the zoom and lower the boom!” He converts in just three steps from fierce robot mode to fast-moving sports car mode, and he’s got the speed and smarts to take on any Decepticon foolish enough to get in his way.

Get a dynamic duo of Mini-Con fighters with the awesome Transformers Robots in Disguise Mini-Con Deployers Autobot Drift and Jetstorm Figures. Jetstorm is a small but mighty fighter who converts in one step from covert mode to warrior mode, and his Autobot Drift buddy is a Mini-Con Deplo

Optimus goes on tour!

Over July and August, the newly rebranded Transformers Robots in Disguise truck will be touring Sunderland, Cheshire, Bristol, Birmingham and Hampshire for families to jump on board and take part in a range of activities. Equipped with iPads, the digital zone is a place for kids to transport their Transformers figures into the Robots in Disguise app.

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FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Gotta catch ‘em all TOMY 020 8722 7300 www.tomy.com Boys can collect the full range of Clip ‘n’ Carry Poké Balls found in all Pokémon adventures. Each Ball comes with a belt clip that is compatible with the roleplay items and holds a five cm character. New for 2015 are Pikachu and Poké Ball, Talonflame and Quick Ball, Pumpkaboo and Dusk Ball, and Tyrunt and Poké Ball.

When it comes to role-play, there is plenty to get involved with including the brand new Trainer’s Pikachu, an interactive plush with both chill out and attach modes. To complement this, the Clip n Carry Poké Ball Cross Belt has been refreshed for 2015 with new characters and Poké Balls. Each Belt pack includes two Clip n Carry Poké Balls, two figures and two Attack Tags as well as the belt which can take up to six Poké Balls at a time. Kids can capture, store and carry their characters, keeping them with them at all times.

From Battroborg, the precision katana controller commands TMNT’s Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as they master their battle skills in the secret training dojo arena to take down Shredder and the Foot Clan. Multiple gameplay modes add extra excitement as kids’ motions control the Turtles around the treacherous dojo trapdoors. Train, battle and score with the Battroborg Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

You’ll dig this!

JCB KIDS 01889 593499 www.jcb.com

Drift king CHICCO 01623 750870 www.chicco.co.uk Danny Drift boasts a superbly sporty design, including a spoiler on the back and racing stripes down the body. The car comes complete with a bright blue steering wheel, which includes intuitive remote control function. Danny’s friendly character face on the windscreen is sure to engage and entertain little ones for hours on end.

To make racing Danny even more fun, little ones can press the drift button and the car with start to perform spectacular skids. With real sounds effects Danny Drift is sure to become a much-loved toy, and is suitable for kids aged two to six years.

Spanners at the ready TOBAR 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk Tobar has a range of boys collectables to suit any budget, including the Model Mechanic Sets, which are brilliant for children who love kits and want to build up a collection of models. Each one comes with all the necessary model pieces, and a screwdriver and spanner. Different designs include Racing Car, Robot and Classic. The Slot Together Clockwork Vehicles are puzzles that fit around a wind-up engine and wheels, and there are three different designs.

JCB kids has an extensive range of new construction-themed toys for 2015 including My First JCB toys for younger children and a number of ride-ons, new toys, clothes and activity books for all ages.

The impressive 1:16 scale JCB 5CX eco Backhoe Loader from Bruder Toys is one for kids aged five plus and grown-up JCB enthusiasts with its stunning attention to detail. The 5CX toy has a fully functional front loader and backhoe with a tilting and locking bucket. From HTI comes the new JCB Mega Transporter. Aimed at children aged three and over, it is perfect for outdoor as well as indoor play. The rugged transporter truck features a streamlined cab and robust low loader with drop down ramps. The transporter also carries two chunky JCB plastic vehicles.

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FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Heroes of pre-history SCHLEICH

Easy Ridaz

01279 870000 www.schleich-s.co.uk

BUYME24SEVEN N

Schleich has created a journey into the realm of action heroes with its brand new DC Comics Action figures collection, while its vast array of Dinosaurs continue to stalk boys’ toy boxes.

The Justice League, the heroes of DC comics, not to mention their archenemies, have made their way to the Schleich collection.

In Schleich’s substantial series, there is much for comic book fans to get excited about, opening up a 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. Darkseid, plus other great heroes such as the Flash and Green Lantern joining both Batman and Superman (each in three separate poses) as standalone figures.

As a series, these figures can make up an impressive display complete with branded FSDU for a specialist retailer or can integrate into any store’s Schleich shelf-space and will make great impulse buys for the Comic-Con followers.

Schleich’s Dinosaur collection within the World of History is a staple, year in, year out. This year will be no different as Schleich takes its prized pre-historic pieces and add to them with even more dinosaurs plus a whole new price-point that will allow for pocket money purchases.

These collectable Mini Dinosaurs include eight figurines to collect.

Individually hand painted and intricately tooled they maintain the renowned Schleich high quality standard of the mid and larger size dinosaurs. 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.

The DC comics and Dinosaur collections from Schleich are available now and will be supported by cross platform PR throughout the year.

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sales@buyme247.co.uk n exciting e new co onc cep ept pt in in BuyMe24Seven brings an concept kids travel cases with its Ridaz range. Available in two very unique styles off well-known brands and s can choose from either fully licensed, consumers the all new Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 or the all-American Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Both styles are available in a range of colours and have many g two retractable handle useful features including ey or a pull along. Being options for use as a trolley s can also be used for multifunctional the cases ven make for a colourful everyday storage and even rable plastic shell, the fun toy. Made from a durable ches on either side for cases feature safety catches onal wheels making them secure closing, six functional a storage pocket very easy to use, an extra and elasticised tie down straps to keep es are things in place. The cases ad compatible with overhead lso storage compartments also thanks to their compact sizes. Recommended for ages three plus, daz makes a refreshing g Ridaz rnative to products already ready alternative tores and these fun, eye-catching in stores es are guaranteed to be a hit. Fully licensed and exclusive to cases Me24Seven, these cases are sure to BuyMe24Seven, az off the shelves fast!

Ridaz

Lighten up!

RE:CREATION 01189 736222 www.reacreationltd.co.uk Re:creation’s LEGO Lights collection continues to go from strength-to-strength.

Joining the hugely popular DC Super Heroes collection, The Flash will line up alongside popular characters Batman, Robin, The Joker, Superman and Wonder Woman.

Set to capitalise on the popularity of the recently launched Ninjago animated series, a range of six collectable LEGO Ninjago character keylights will be available this summer. The LEGO Star Wars keylight collection will continue to be in the spotlight.

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Š 2015 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Movie magic ICON LIVE 01444238365 www.iconlive.com Icon Live enters the world of Minions Madness with a wide range of licensed collectbles, accessories and impulse items, together with an extensive Father’s Day gifting range. Already strong at retail, popularity is increasing each week with the recent release of the movie.

Inside Out will also be a focus for Icon Live, to support the movie launch in July, with a range of jewellery and accessories to bring the animation to life. Later in 2015, the force will be with Icon Live as it launches a range of licensed Star Wars accessories for aspiring Luke Skywalkers and Darth Vaders. Products will include bandanas, reflective bag tags, key rings, cuff links, collectables and the obligatory Yoda ears.

Next year, Icon Live will be launching its Marvel Avengers range where boys can harness their inner superhero with Avengers accessories, novelty dress up, collectables and wristbands and can head back to school armed with Avengers bag tags and wrap band rulers.

Boy, oh boy!

Wheely fun

GREAT GIZMOS

GOLDEN BEAR

01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk

01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Golden Bear is expanding its boys market offering this year across its Go MINI and My First JCB ranges.

The Bash `N’ Spin Radio Controlled Bulldog is a new addition to Golden Bear’s firmly established Go MINI collection.

The Go MINI Night Challenge Raceway is guaranteed to get the hearts racing of every little petrol head. Dual Speed Switching technology allows parents to choose the right level of driving ability: there’s a low speed for younger racers and the car will never leave the track, and for the older drivers switch to high speed for an added turbo boost. A single player can also enjoy the track as they race against the pace car. For ultra-cool street action the cars glow as they race around the track in the dark.

New to the My First JCB collection for 2015 is the Build & Go Digger. Designed for children as young as two years, the chunky screwdriver can be used to attach the super-sized wheels and front scoop to the cab over and over again. Big Wheeler Freddie will also join the team for 2015 featuring classic chunky wheels and a fun plough. Also joining the collection is Farm Fun Tractor Tim and RC Doug – pre-schoolers can use the chunky controller to drive Doug forwards and listen out as his fun phrases play and light flashes.

Great Gizmos has plenty to offer boys of all ages, from 4M Science and Craft Kits to sky high Rockets!

There is a whole range of new motorised kits to create.

From the Fun Mechanics range from 4M come the Mecho Motorised Kits in four designs: Tractor, Robo Bug, Claw Bot and Race Car. New for 2015 is the Moon Torch that allows you to bring the moon with you wherever you go. This pocket torch will shine a replica of the moon onto any surface.

The Diving Octopus is a cool new gadget which teaches kids about the changes in pressure underwater – watch as the octopus moves up and down to display the pressure change! The 4M Micro Rocket will blast into the sky with the help of vinegar and baking powder, while the Cosmic Jet Racer will zoom across the floor and is only powered by yp y air!

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FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Let’s ride!

PRINCE LIONHEART 0208 997 7054 www.princelionheart.com Sleek, modern and very stable, the Prince Lionheart yoMOTO is a brand new motorbike style ride-on. Powered by little feet, the clever steering mechanism means it can be easily steered by leaning on the handlebars. The large wheels realign when riding over obstacles giving a smooth and comfortable ride. Suitable for toddlers from 18 months plus yoMOTO is available with a blue or red flash.

Balance and toddlers do not always go hand-in-hand.

Before their toes leave the ground, help them perfect the art of balance with the Prince Lionheart balanceBIKE. With its eco-friendly wooden frame with padded and adjustable seat for growing kids, the Prince Lionheart balanceBIKE range helps beginner cyclists feel secure and learn to balance – a crucial skill to master before transitioning to a traditional pedal bicycle. The range includes the Original balanceBIKE, the Whirl balanceSCOOTER and the CHOP balanceBIKE. An adventure awaits the intrepid traveler with the NEW yetiZOO. A fabulous ride-on, perfect for little ones who are keen to get moving, this brightly coloured toy has a secret compartment for little ones to hide and carry their favourite things. Kids can enjoy the YetiZOO’s manoeuvrability and comfort, and the steering handlebar is constructed to ensure maximum safety for the child while riding and turning. The yetiZOO is constructed of innovative plastic materials that provide a velvety, strong and superior feeling. It provides great exercise indoors and out for little ones age one to three Two designs, Joey the Smiley Hippo and Jerri the Happy Elephant, are available in red, blue and green.

Big brands for boys HTI 01253 778888 www.htigroup.co.uk With the Minions movie release in June, HTI has added two Minions Character Cases to its hugely popular novelty character case range.

Both are full of fun contents for either indoor or outdoor play. For Bob it’s all about catching bananas using the unique banana grabber, whilst Stuart is all about making music with a banana-shaped harmonica, mini ukulele and maraca.

JCB continues to be supported through an extensive new range inspired by the brand’s distinctive yellow and black theme.

Teamsterz, HTI’s die-cast vehicle range, combines sharp price points and quality manufacture across die-cast vehicles, playsets and track sets. Following the launch of new 1:64 scaled vehicles this spring, a range of real life and fantasy themed tracksets arrive this summer. Barrel Bash, Billboard Bash and Barricade featuring movie-style stunts, wheel-to-wheel racing and action.

Fantasy wise, it’s all about dinosaurs.

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High voltage HY-PRO 01582 670100 www.hy-pro.co.uk Zinc continues to focus on its successful boys BMX, Stunt and Electric scooter ranges, making the categories even stronger with an extended portfolio of new, exciting and innovative products for 2015.

The Zinc electric ranges have expanded this year with the Zinc Volt Sport models. Perfect for beginners, the Volt sport has a sleek appearance with push and go start up technology and encourages children to use a natural braking motion through a rear wheel brake.

Zinc has a full range of BMX specifications suitable for all levels of BMXers who are keen on learning new tricks and want to improve their skills.

For both the younger and the more experienced riders, the Zinc stunt scooter range offers a wide selection of specifications to meet all riders’ needs. New to the range is the Havoc 360 which is fully equipped with spec and quality.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

W E N in

22ines 15 l 20

Dinosaurs on the loose!

This year even more dinosaurs have joined the world of Schleich. With individual dinosaur figurines and boxed sets promising young dinosaur fans everywhere hours of fun and imaginative play.

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

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

On track for big things!

MATTEL 01628 500000 www.mattel.co.uk Mattel presents an impressive portfolio of some of the world’s most popular boy’s brands and licenses including Hot Wheels and Disney Pixar’s Cars, as well as exciting new launches from Hot Wheels Star Wars and Mega Bloks Minions.

Hot Wheels, the No. 1 non-powered vehicle brand*, sees the continuation of The Connectors this autumn including a further five videos released featuring different Hot Wheels challenges to inspire boys to become the ultimate track masters.

The Connectors will be brought to life through the ultimate Epic Race experience at Westfield, London during October half-term, where boys will be set adrenalinefuelled, racing challenges to become experts in building, connecting and racing epic Hot Wheels track systems.

An extensive marketing and PR programme includes amplification of The Connectors through partnerships with the Scouts Association and a leading boy’s magazine, as well as YouTube advertising. The Epic Race experience and record attempt will be supported with an extensive national, local and social media programme.

A first class toy range includes the continuation of the Super Speed Blastway and the launch of the TV advertised Nitrobot Attack, Track Builder Volcano Blast and new Porsche Anniversary and James Bond Diecast Car assortments. In addition, Star Wars fans will be able to collect the new Hot Wheels Star Wars range including Character Car and Starship assortments.

Under the newly acquired Mega Bloks brand, Mattel will launch a range of buildable Minion Characters following the release

of the highly anticipated Minions movie in June. Minecraft fans can also collect the 3-Pack and Single Blind Pack assortments featuring all the favourite characters.

Established evergreen property, Disney Pixar’s Cars, introduces the impressive TV-advertised Gear Up McQueen, while Disney Pixar’s Planes continues its popular range with the fantastic Diecast Car assortment.

The evergreen favourite WWE introduces the exciting new Create a Superstar and Customize a Superstar Figure Assortments, where kids can create and customise their own wrestling superstars and ring.

For all Batman fans there is the Six Inch Figure Assortment, featuring favourite DC Super Heroes and Villains, where kids can play out infinite DC Super Heroes-sized adventures. There are also 12 Inch figures in the range. *NPD – April 2015 - Non Powered Vehicles Super category NPD

Blast off VIVID 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk

Dino-mite!

BANDAI 01489 790944 www.bandai.co.uk Get ready to charge this summer as the countdown for the highly anticipated launch of the all-new Power Rangers is on and it’s going to o be dino-mite. The series hits screens on 31 August at 7:30am on POP!, To support the new TV series, a range of brand new action figures and role-play toys will be launching this month in a new Dino Charge style.

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i-Que Interactive Robot is the quick-witted, smart-talking know-it-all! Download the app, connect via Bluetooth and he can answer questions about almost anything, play in-app games, ask trivia questions and more. Vivid’s Thunderbirds toy range will be launching in July and will include 9.5cm articulated figures of all the Tracy brothers and the Hood, Thunderbird vehicles with sounds, Vehicle Superset, International Role Play Uniform, Supersize TB2 Playset and the hero product, Interactive Tracy Island, which is packed full of features and intelligent storytelling.

The Big Dog LITTLE TIKES 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk Little Tikes highlights for boys this year include the Touch N Go Racers.

Suitable for boys two to eight years, this firm favourite comes with ignition and racing sound effects as it darts in to the distance with the touch of three interactive buttons.

Then meet Big Dog, the 3-in-1 rideon with three modes of play: a push wagon for those learning to walk, a ride-on for those looking to develop their motor skills and a dump truck that will inspire little boys from 12 months to three years.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Licensed Kids Pull Along Travel / Storage Cases

• • • • • •

Durable Plastic Shell Two Retractable Handles Can be used for Travel, Everyday Use or as a Fun Toy! Simple to Open Safety Catches Easy to Pull Along (Not a ride on toy) Fully Licensed and Approved

To find out more contact sales@buyme24seven.co.uk

FEATURE BOYS TOYS

Build it bigger

Creepy crawlies

K’NEX

INTERPLAY

01189 497000 www.knex.co.uk

01628 488944 www.interplayuk.com The kind of boy who is obsessed with creepy crawlies is more than catered for with Interplay’s award-winning My Living World range of nature study kits, which actively encourage kids aged five plus to get outdoors and explore the fascinating world of minibeasts. Another of Interplay’s strong offering for boys are Technokits, a range of appealing construction activities designed to promote a practical knowledge of electrical or mechanical principles. Low priced lines include best sellers Stunt Buggy and Dragster. A new addition for this year is Racing Truck. The brand also includes Rivetz, a construction system that uses a patented rivet gun to make amazing 3D sculptures, and the build and fly Hovercraft kit.

Wood WorX is another fun and popular brand with plenty of boy appeal. There are three kits available: Robot Ranger, Dinosaur and Jet Fighter. The models are created by gluing together wooden components that can then be painted and personalised providing kids with a perfect introduction to DIY wooden construction.

This year, K’NEX will launch a number of new additions to its strong and diverse product portfolio that will bring innovation to the boys market.

At the heart of the K’NEX range remains a collection of building tubs and treasure chests, with generous piece counts and dozens of inspiring building ideas.

K’NEX launched into the blaster category this year with K-FORCE, a new range Inspired by hundreds of thousands of online searches for K’NEX blasters.

Also new for 2015, the K’NEX Beasts Alive range offers dinosaur and dragon themed construction play. X-Flame is a real showstopper, with motorised walking and wing movements and three alternate models to build.

Coaster themed construction range, K’NEX Thrill Rides, offers the chance to recreate the fun of a theme park at home.

Enter the dragon SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmastertoys.co.uk Spin Master’s DreamWorks: Dragons range for 2015 offers a selection of new characters and figures from the hugely successful film How To Train Your Dragon 2 and corresponding TV series, alongside some old favourites.

Launched 26 June exclusively on Netflix, episodes of the brand new series DreamWorks Dragons: Race To The Edge can now be watched, with seasons one and two being aired on CBBC and Boomerang throughout the year.

The Dragons Egg contains four pocket-sized, detailed, mini-dragon figures, while the Bucket of Dragons offers a selection of 18 dragons and seven Vikings, each small enough to fit in child-sized pockets to take the battle on the move.

Kids can play with their favourite Dragon and Rider together, whether its Astrid and Stormfly, Hiccup and Toothless, or Snotlout and Hookfang. Dragon Riders come with the addition of a Viking, their signature weapon and the ability to ride any dragon. Kids can also re-enact Toothless and Hiccup’s battle against the Armoured Dragon, launching missiles to free the fearless dragon’s armour which breaks away when hit. Both Dragon Riders and the Toothless & Hiccup Vs. Armoured Dragon will be TV advertised along with Blast & Roar Toothless in autumn.

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INDUSTRY

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.

It might be summer, but this industry doesn’t take a holiday! This month we catch up with key people and ask their thoughts on pop-up shops to licensing

GRETTA ADDISON Global Head of Marketing and Licensing, Zuru Shop Direct is closing its Woolworths website, do you think there is still hope for the brand name, will others swoop in to continue the legacy?

There is a lot of speculation in the industry on this topic and there have already been a few suitors identified who are likely to throw their hat in the ring Hopefully it can go into the right hands to breath some life back into it.

It has been estimated that there will be 3.4 million pop-up shops in the UK by 2017 – is this the future of retail?

Definitely, we have already seen this working across the UK, giving brands and retailers additional touch points and allowing them to gain presence in high traffic areas. We can see this working particularly well with highly seasonal offerings, allowing companies to capitalise on these key sales periods. Its great to see companies getting creative with the pop-up stores using shipment containers and providing an immersive experience for customers.

Licensing Expo in Vegas has just finished, what is your company’s approach to working with licensors?

Our business is centered around bringing the best and freshest innovation to market. We aim to work with our license partners and immerse ourselves in the storylines of new upcoming properties to understand how we can bring what kids are seeing onscreen into play through innovation in toys.

PAUL FOGARTY Managing Director, K’NEX UK Shop Direct is closing its Woolworths website, do you think there is still hope for the brand name, will others swoop in to continue the legacy?

I think the world has changed since Woolworths closure. We have seen a huge increase in value retailers, be it in the grocery sector or the more general/variety sectors. I believe these brands are dominating that sector so to some degree Woolworths as a brand would find it tough to compete with the new(er) kids on the block.

Is he has estimated that there will be 3.4 million pop-up shops in the UK by 2017 – is the future of retail?

It certainly is a feature of retail but not the future in my opinion. It’s a neat solution to deal with the seasonal demands, particularly in toys, but is still heavily reliant on the right sites being available at the right price. As we know we live in a country where space is at a premium so it seems unlikely to be able to be predictable growth area should retail space retract or become more expensive. In my experience they are also of variable quality in terms of shopper experience and can look more like the bargain basement rather than a credible toy store.

How has the first half of 2015?

We entered the year, our second since the re-launch, with ambitious targets and we are thrilled to say that we have exceeded all of these. We have had a wonderful response from most retailers who are happy to see a strong and resurgent K’NEX in the market place. Like most suppliers we are reliant on the major retailers but I am very proud of the uptake we have had from the independent retailers and their renewed support and interest in our brand.

How has the first half of 2015 been for you?

We have blazed into 2015 with really strong double-digit results. It has been really encouraging to see such a positive response from the market to our new innovation coming through in our new lines. We are seeing really strong results from all of our key markets being North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. We are expecting the second half to be even stronger.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

MARK JONES

JONATHAN KIRKLEY

UK Sales Manager, Cheatwell Games

Marketing Director, Re:creation Ltd

Shop Direct is closing its Woolworths website, do you think there is still hope for the brand name, will others swoop in to continue the legacy?

I think there is still hope for the brand. Woolworths was a High Street King, and nothing has really filled that gap effectively. Personally, I think it was one of those, that once it had gone, you realised how much you used it. The question for me is, was there really a place for the brand as a key online retailer?

Shop Direct is closing its Woolworths website, do you think there is still hope for the brand name, will others swoop in to continue the legacy?

The Woolworths brand name carries such heritage with it and has played such a part in so many lives, it would be sad to see it disappear altogether. I sincerely hope that someone will have the appetite to carry it forward and re-engage consumers but I do feel it would be a considerable challenge at this point.

Is has been estimated that there will be 3.4 million pop-up shops in the UK by 2017 – is this the future of retail?

The world of retail is constantly changing and the rise of pop-up shops is just another example of how quickly the industry adapts. They have proved themselves to be another great retail innovation and I have confidence there is a long term future for them. Of course there will always be a need for permanent bricks and mortar stores but pop-up shops and internet shopping certainly address a need depending on purchase intention and occasion.

Licensing Expo in Vegas has just finished, what is your company’s approach to working with licensors?

Re:creation has great relationships with all the major licensors and we have a history of working with those who can react quickly and help us get products to market on time and budget. A very recent example is the forthcoming launch of our new Minions Make-a-Bar Chocolate Factory product. We have worked extremely well with CPLG/Universal rsal to bring this fantastic product to market.

Is has been estimated that there will be 3.4 million pop-up shops in the UK by 2017 – is this the future of retail?

I think pop-up shops is a great marketing tool for retailers. When done right they can have a great impact through a form of ‘disruption’ and the buzz it creates, allows the retailer to talk face to face to the consumer. I wouldn’t say is the future of retail, but it is certainly is an effective, innovative way to connect with the consumer and grow brand awareness.

Licensing Expo in Vegas has just finished, what is your company’s approach to working with licensors?

As a company strategy this is an area we would like to develop further. At present our route to market is through the traditional channels. However, we have exciting plans for the business going forward, and we are keen to grow our relationships within this field in the future.

How has the first half of 2015 been for you?

Re:creation has had a great first half of 2015 and that is reflected in a strong NPD reported performance of +37% 37% YTD. We have seen stand out performances from our Razor electric and kick scooters, particularly the S Sport. port. Our LEGO Lights range and our Stretchkins tretchkins plush characters have also delivered elivered great results. We have a lot off new news to come in the second half and so we expect this trend to continue ontinue over the summer as we launch unch our new Zigamazoos TV advertised plush line from July.

What is your favourite toy or range at the moment?

I think the Shopkins range is fantastic. tic. A simple idea executed brilliantly.

Have you got the best partner?

Amethyst is the brand leader in UK Toys and Games Logistics

Our flexible and proactive service optimises costs for our clients and we deliver a pain free peak year after year.

For a stress free, multichannel, logistics solution, please contact: info@amet info@amethystgroup.co.uk 01580 895600 www.amethystgroup.co.uk

JULY 2015

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FOCUS MOOKIE TOYS

Growing the range Mookie Toys are changing the way they do things. Although renowned as an outdoor specialist, the company has added pre-school and arts & crafts categories to its portfolio

M

ookie Toys first established itself within the toy market with a range of general outdoor and roleplay items 27 years ago. The company has built-up a portfolio of household brands which dominate their market, including Swingball, TP Toys, Scuttlebug and Smart Trike.

All of these brands have managed to be successful by offering unique play value as well as being incredibly high

“

Mookie Toys are now set to diversify their toy portfolio in autumn/ winter ‘15 with a range of launches into new categories

Play

quality.

In 1993 Mookie became the exclusive global manufacturer and distributor of Swingball. The brand has gone from strength-tostrength, with well over 11 million units sold in the UK to date and it consistently finishes as the number one item within the outdoor sports and activities category.

In 2012, TP Toys was acquired by Mookie Toy. Since then the brand has grown considerably with more in-store displays than ever before.

In spring 2015, TP Toys made its

3D Magic

debut on TV with a 40 second commercial promoting the brands values of heritage, active fun and unique design.

However, Mookie Toys are now set to diversify their toy portfolio in autumn/winter ‘15 with a range of launches into new categories.

This is part of a company-wide focus to expand its offering to all year rather than focusing specifically on spring/summer. This Christmas Mookie will be launching Pebli Town, Pebli Safari, FluffiMals, 3D Magic and Skwooshi.

Finger on the pulse Mookie Toys’ Director Guy Orr gives TnP the lowdown on how the company is expanding its retail offering this autumn/winter 2015 Guy, tell us about the efforts to change how Mookie is perceived within the toy industry. You are not just outdoor specialists, are you?

Contact Mookie Toys sales team by calling 01525722722 or email sales@mookie.co.uk

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Mookie has had great success within the outdoor toy market and it continues to be a hugely important part of the business, with brands such as Swingball and TP Toys. However we are also working hard to develop our position in other categories within toys. We are launching a wide range of new lines this autumn/winter ‘15, as Mookie’s product portfolio expands

offering a wider array of products throughout the year.

Why and how did you come to the decision to diversify your offering to retailers and consumers?

The move is just a natural progression for the company as we continue to grow. Mookie has had a lot of success and become very well established within the outdoor market, diversifying our product portfolio is just the next step in the company’s future.

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Taking on pre-school Pebli is a connected interactive pre-school toy and is the company’s first product to launch within the educational learning aids sector. Pebli brings physical characters to life in a virtual world using hot-spot technology on the Pebli board which is connected via Bluetooth to a tablet app. Any action on the board is created on the screen, allowing children to immerse themselves in stories, play games, create movies and watch videos. Pebli Town Starter Pack and Pebli Safari Expansion Pack will both be launching this year, offering children a huge amount of available content.

This launch is part of an understanding by Mookie that preschool children are becoming far more tech savvy as tablets become more accessible. However parents are still keen for children to get the same traditional play value from toys, and this is Pebli’s unique selling point. Children are using a tablet but they are still ll interacting with a physical toy because cause 99% of all game play is created ed using the play pieces.

Play Pebli personalised bear. Girls get to pick a personality to match their bear, bring their bear to life using the FluffiMals Fluff Factory, they can add a glowing heart and glittery pompoms, create a birth certificate for their new cuddly friend and make them look their best with the FluffiMals hair brush. With additional expansion packs there is loads to do and plenty for little girls to collect. The toy effectively bridges the gap between arts & crafts and plush with the ability to design and create as well as offering a cuddly plush bear, FluffiMals offers amazing play value.

Next is 3D Magic, a revolutionary 3D creator that allows children to create anything their imagination

Get crafty FluffiMals, 3D Magic and nd Skwooshi see Mookie make a big g step into the arts & crafts category. gory.

FluffiMals allows girls ls to use their creativity and d imagination to design and create their own

How have you gone ne about implementing ng your plans?

We have a great product uct development team here re in the UK and in Israel who ho have designed a wide range e of innovative new toys which we are e really excited about.

How are Mookie hese communicating these rs and changes to retailers consumers?

We have used our already ady established success in the industry to ensure we are talking g to the right retailers at the right ght time of year. With an ever-expanding xpanding sales and marketing team and d growing knowledge base, this communication has been successful in Mookie getting our new lines listed for autumn/winter 2015.

Our consumer messaging is going

JULY 2015

Swingball

can think of. The toy uses a UV Creation Station to set the 3D gels into any shape, allowing children to design bracelets, create dinosaurs and build castles as well as much more. With a large range of expansion packs and refill gels; 3D Magic is set to be the toy to watch within arts & crafts this Christmas.

Finally, Skwooshi is an incredible compound which stretches and moulds into any shape. For autumn/winter 2015 Mookie are offering a brand new compound stretches further than ever which stretc before. With Skwooshi there is no mess, it doesn’t leave absolutely n any residue behind and will never dry out so it can be used over and Mookie are also set to over again. M launch a new range of higher price point items within the Skwooshi range offering offerin a great amount of play value. these new brands still All of thes follow the same philosophy of unique play value and offering u incredibly high quality, as Mookie did when iit established its self 27 years ago.

from strength-to-strength, we streng understand the wide range of consumers consumer we have to target and use us a variety of media outlets outle to ensure they understand each brand und and product. This is being bein achieved through the biggest-ever TV and online onlin campaign Mookie has ever built, a huge PR e launch and much more.

In terms of the future, what is your vision for Mookie?

“

Mookie will always have a big part to play within the outdoor toy market, however this new direction towards an all-year offering feels like the natural progression

The team at M Mookie and I want to growth into new and continue this g categories in 2016 and 2017. diverse catego We know the outdoor world very well and will c continue to have our finger on the pulse with new trends and safety requirements ensuring we continue our success in outdoor toys, while adding in new ranges to our ever-growing portfolio of toys.

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FEATURE RC

Kids in control Flying Toys/ Parrot Bebop Drone Skycontroller

RC toys are taking off in a big way, and we’re not just talking drones and quadcopters. This technology-driven sector is gaining widespread appeal and new innovation means there’s lots more to come from this classic sector

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elicopters swooping over fields, sports cars jumping ramps, camera-equipped drones hovering overhead for a bird’s-eye view. These are all the coolest moments that kids can see in films or play in video games, but recreating these moments in real life is a completely different, and far more exciting, experience.

The RC category is all about these magical moments, giving kids the control and freedom of some of the world’s coolest and most advanced vehicles.

It is all about the range To meet a diverse consumer base, RC toys range from basic four-way movement, to fully featured, scaled down facsimiles of cutting-edge vehicles.

For younger children, streamlined and distilled controls provide the perfect entry point, and on this end of the spectrum, Chicco’s range gives kids their first taste of RC fun.

From the Fiat 500 remote control car to the new, loveable

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“

There is a large leaning towards drones and quadcopters presently and lots of new innovations coming to the market Joshua Farleigh, Flying Gadgets

”

Danny Drift, Toys Category Manager, Holly John, says they’re proving very popular.

“Chicco toy sales have been increasing for the past year, with month-on-month growth,” she explains. “Our RC products have significantly contributed to this, especially with the launch of our new lines which are proving extremely popular. In particular, our Fiat 500 remote control car has been very successful, with little ones wanting to own their own sporty little Fiat.

Parents seem to enjoy it too!”

The partnership with Fiat and the eyes on both the Fiat 500 and Danny Drift injects real character into Chicco’s range, and Holly says, “this widens our appeal as some children like new characters, while others prefer a well-known car brand for their RC toys.”

Getting high-tech On the other end of the spectrum, Flying Toys MD, David Rawlings, has experienced similar popularity with the company’s latest in high-tech RC.

Flying Toys’ RC offering include the Bebop Drone – acclaimed, David says, as “the ultimate flying camera” – as well as Silverlit’s wide range of land and air RC vehicles.

“Both ranges have seen substantial sales growth during the past 12 months, despite considerable competition from other manufacturers,” says David, who also highlights the sector’s far reaching variety.

“Offering toy retailers a wide range of easy to fly Silverlit aeroplanes, helicopters and drones with generous margins, as well as hovercraft, gyro stabilised buggies and motorbikes, sophisticated i-Connect supercars and even robots, all supplied in attractive complementary packaging, consumers are spoilt for choice.”

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Chicco Keep things fresh Silverlit GM, Tom Mullen believes that diversity is key to catering to as wide an audience as possible, from “the basic radio controllers to the ‘geeks’ who are always looking for the state of the art.”

These upper echelons of RC enthusiasts are, of course, the ones that spend the most money. More than a toy, to them RC is a hobby. But as children continue to encounter technology at earlier stages in their lives, the demand for increasingly sophisticated toys is growing and driving the RC category to success.

Technology across the board is becoming cheaper and more approachable than ever before, and David thinks that the traditionally more specialist products have broken into the mainstream: “Drones are now common place, and available in many different shapes and sizes.”

Flying Gadgets MD Joshua Farleigh echoes this sentiment. He says that sales have consistently been on the increase for Flying Gadgets, and that growing appetites for technological showpieces are a big part of this.

“There is a large leaning towards drones and quadcopters presently and lots of new innovations coming to the market,” he explains. “The incredible advances in technology have increased their popularity. They are really exciting to fly, and the lowering of prices across the board has made flying them more accessible to everyone.”

Look who is talking!

One of Flying Gadgets’ latest drones has been the talk of the town – quite literally. The company’s X-Voice is the world’s first voice-controlled quadcopter. It makes complex flight patterns and manoeuvres more approachable for firsttimers and puts a new spin on the action for veterans. Using a number of voice commands the X-Voice is able to ‘take-off’, ‘land’ and even ‘dance’.

When it was first unveiled, X-Voice sparked lots of buzz around the web, and Joshua says Flying Gadgets “has been working hard on evolving that voicecontrol technology from the X-Voice and will be bringing out a range of top quality voice controlled products.”

Showing off the range So how can retailers showcase these products to their fullest in-store? Well, the classic product demo is always a winner, especially for products such as these that really shine when in motion. David says that this is the perfect way to showcase exactly what the products can do, even in a relatively enclosed environment.

“In addition to our Silverlit gyro stabilised indoor helicopters, the Parrot MiniDrones Rolling Spider and Jumping Sumo require remarkably little space to operate, and are guaranteed to attract attention,” he says. “Similarly the larger Parrot Drones are particularly stable, featuring an auto hover facility, and have proved perfect for in-store demonstrations during the

“

Chicco toy sales have been increasing for the past year, with month-onmonth growth. Our RC products have significantly contributed to this Holly John, Chicco

”

last three years.”

This is a technique that David himself employs when at trade shows, and believes a demo will always attract poitive attention.

“Visitors passing Flying Toys’ stand at the recent Spring Fair often expressed a personal interest in purchasing a drone, even where these were outside their commercial buying category,” he adds.

Tom says demonstrations can also be a big help with explaining some of the more ostensibly complicated features to customers and reassuring those that might deem them to complicated. It also helps when they look cool too!

Some retailers don’t have the luxury of space and demo time, however. But there are simple solutions to this, and Joshua says ”a good video and eye catching product and box design make the difference.”

Retail opinion: Laurie Smith, Jake’s Toys, Hampshire “RC is a good category for us with a surprising amount of variety and steady sellers.

The lower priced, smaller quadcopters and helicopters are great value and keep things ticking over nicely throughout the year. When Christmas rolls round, there’s a definite increase in interest for the big-ticket RC cars and drones. They have more features and make a great gift option for boys and girls.”

Toy State

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FEATURE RC

In the driving seat CHICCO 01623 750870 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 two years and upwards, the car is based on the Fiat 500 sport car 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 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 has been extremely popular since its launch in the UK, regularly featuring in the top 10 best-selling cars. The new licensed RC from Chicco will no doubt provide hours of fun and be just as popular as the actual car, in fact, Chicco think there might even be a few adults hoping to get their hands on this lovely remote control toy.

Spin along with Sam CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.co.uk For little ones taking their first foray into remote control action, Character Options offers chunky and robust Drive and Steer designs featuring pre-school favourites Fireman Sam and Postman Pat. Fireman Sam’s Jupiter Drive and Steer has a chunky steering wheel unit, which controls where Sam’s trusty fire engine goes. Simply press forward or reverse, while a turn of the wheel determines left or a right. There’s even a turbo button for extra speed. Packed with key Fireman Sam phrases and a siren to warn other vehicles, kids will be ready for any emergency!

Alternatively, kids can determine the movements of Postman Pat and his trusty companion Jess as they head off on their

56 6

deliveries in the Postman Pat Drive and Steer. Little ones can control the direction and speed of Pat’s van with the steering wheel, and also press the buttons to hear a fun Postman Pat tune plus other sound effects and phrases.

The Teksta world is about to get a little bit fiercer, sharper and faster with the brand’s latest addition that provides a new take on remote control action – The Teksta Scorpion.

This mighty creature has a sting in his tail, and he isn’t afraid to use it.

The Teksta Scorpion’s awesome interactivity is controlled with an infrared remote that straps to the back of the child’s hand to allow a full 360 degree control of realistic movement. Once in place, be ready for a battle to commence as this speedy arachnid also features articulated, giant pincers, which can pick up objects or compete for supremacy with two or more of these impressive creatures.

Mario is simply great with Carrera RC HOBBY COMPANY 01908 605686 www.hobbyco.net The latest incarnation of Nintendo’s Super Mario storms into the UK this September courtesy of Carrera RC with the launch of its new, officially licensed Mario Kart 8 items in radio control for 2015.

Mario swaps his kart for a Quad, with the Carrera RC – Mario Kart 8 Quad, featuring everybody’s computer game hero on a 1/20 scale big-wheel, radio controlled machine. Full function control is via the latest 2.4GHZ RC technology.

Quadmania REVELL GMBH 0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en Revell Control’s award-winning 2.4GHz Quadcopter “Rayvore” features gyro stabilization, highpowered motors and four flight modes from beginner to expert.

The 2.4GHz WiFi Quadcopter “X-Spy”, is a multi award-winning little gem equipped with a camera to instantly stream video or pictures to your Smartphone via WiFi. Also look out for the 2.4GHz Nano Quad which is not much bigger than a two-Euro piece.

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FEATURE RC

High flyers FLYING TOYS 01702 295110 www.flyingtoys.com Flying Toys’ best-seller for the first half of 2015 has undoubtedly been the brilliant Parrot Bebop Drone, acclaimed as the ultimate flying camera. Latest development, the Bebop Drone Skycontroller will be available separately soon, allowing pilots to fly the Bebop with a smartphone or tablet, and buy this sophisticated operating system later if they prefer.

Always attracting attention wherever it’s flown, the amazing Aerotron-RC Flying Man continues to prove popular, allowing youngsters to choose their favourite Superhero in red, orange or blue.

UK distributors for the leading Silverlit range of remote control models for more than 10 years, Flying Toys offers a wide selection of ready-to-fly helicopters, including many with special features.

The popular Spy Cam-2 and Sky Eye both feature video cameras,

while the Heli Express has a winch, the Heli Blaster and Air Cannon fire rockets, and Heli Splash sprays water.

The Heli Transbot transforms from a robot into a helicopter, the Heli Beast will walk along the ground before becoming a flying dinosaur, and Heli Combat combines a rescue mission, with firing missiles and dropping spinning discs.

New for 2015, Silverlit has introduced its third-generation of Guinness World Record-winning ‘smallest remote control helicopter,’ the Nano Falcon XS, with realistic and metallic options. Continuing this trend for tiny flying toys, Silverlit has added the 2.4GHz Nano Xcopter, and innovative Spy Cam Nano, which fits inside its transmitter transforming it into a camera, as well as taking pictures and video while flying.

Driving on the ceiling SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmastertoys.co.uk

Rule the skies JOHN ADAMS 01481 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk The new RC Flying Dragon is the latest addition to John Adams Leisure’s product offering, which sees the company taking a step into the tech toy arena.

Constructed from virtually indestructible super-strong plastic, the RC Flying Dragon is uber tough, so will easily survive a few crash landings while kids are getting to grips with their new wings.

With scarlet red colouring and a wingspan measuring approximately 40cm, just like a ‘real’ dragon, its wings flap when in flight. It can take off and land from its moveable legs and also features fire-breathing light effects.

The infrared remote control comes in an impressive dragon claw design and features throttle stick and direction/rotation stick, as well as the all-important button to make the dragon’s wings flap during flight. The dragon can go up, down, left and right as well as do a full 360 rotation. The handheld remote control also features three channels so up to four dragons can be used at the same time.

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After more than 15 years at the top of its game, Air Hogs continues to be a leader in RC toys, driven by kids’ desire to own innovative RC toys and parental approval for buying a tried and tested quality product.

In the second half of 2015, Air Hogs introduces a twist on the popular wall-climbing car with Zero Gravity Drive with patented technology to let users drive along the ground, wall or ceiling. Whilst defying gravity, the pilot tilts the directional controller to steer whilst giving the experience of actually driving the vehicle. The vehicle also has a light changing feature which is activated by pushing a button on the controller The bestselling Atmosphere Axis with its patented Wave Control Technology continues to be a top seller due to it’s easy to fly capabilities, which enables it to hover over a hand or object. It will be TV advertised alongside Zero Gravity Drive and the unstoppable, go-anywhere RollerCopter helicopter with protective roll cage. Digital activity will also be running during the approach to Christmas.

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Intuitive radio control

Turbo Touch 500 Press down, Rev up

GO GO GO!

Turbo Touch CRASH!

Billy Big Wheels R/C

db s an r o Do

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rin t sp e n n

en wh n pe go

cle ta s b no a it Discover yh e h t

the world of Turbo racing. A collection of vehicles with real horn sounds and revving engines.

Designed to develop motor skills through emulation and imagination.

Chicco Turbo Team presents a range of cars from press ‘n’ go to R/C cars.

Fiat 500 R/C

Danny Drift R/C

Steering wheel for Remote Control Happiness is a journey that starts when you’re a baby.

w w w.c h icco.co.u k

For information on these products, contact us at orders.uk@artsana.com, or please call 01623 750870

FEATURE RC

Time to split TOBAR 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk

Take to the skies

Tobar’s collection of RC toys was popular earlier this year at the shows. The Syma range of Quadcopters and Helicopters like the X3, X12, S39 are superb for fans of all skill levels. The Stunt Racer 360 is a remote control stunt car with unique wheel splitting action. The left and right wheel sets are both hinged, allowing the car to split down the middle as it rotates to perform very impressive spinning tricks. The wheels and other prominent features on the car’s body light up, giving an enhanced air of spectacle as it moves and spins in its own special way.

This remote control car is truly unlike any other and will draw crowds and lots of attention if demoed in store.

FLYING GADGETS

0844 209 2626 www.flyinggadgets.com Following its wildly successful reception across all media, the Flying Gadgets X-Voice – the world’s first voice-controlled quadcopter – has now hit retail and is enjoying another rapturous wave of exposure. A testament to Flying Gadgets’ specialism in bringing new and innovative products to market, the local media have been captivated by this world first in Menkind stores throughout the country.

As well as exploring voice-control technology further this year with additional RC products in the pipeline, Flying Gadgets is also excited about its hero products for Q4, which include the X-Drone, Xtra-Drone and a new T88c giant RC helicopter.

Next generation RC VIVID 01483 449944 www. vividtoysandgames. co.uk All new for A/W ‘15 is the Sky Rover Missile Fire Helicopter!

This voice controlled helicopter uses the latest in voice recognition software allowing users to easily fly and command their helicopter with just their voice. With 12 different commands kids can perform amazing aerial manoeuvres. For evasive action, kids can also fire two missiles upon command - perfect for aerial target practice. The Missile Fire Helicopter is stable and easy to control with its GYRO balanced engine and smart hover technology, which prevents the helicopter from hitting the ceiling when flying indoors.

Sky Rover will be TV advertised.

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. Watch out for it speeding into stores and off the shelves very soon.

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RC with character GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.co.uk The Bash`N’ Spin Radio Controlled Bulldog is a new addition to Golden Bear’s Go MINI offering. 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 that activate cheeky barking sounds and real working headlights.

Kid tough Remote Control Doug Dumptruck joins the company’s My First JCB collection from July and is suitable for children as young as two years.

The easy to hold controller activates Doug’s five phrases, flashing light and moves this fun and chunky dumptruck forwards or backwards, as well as enabling the vehicle to perform a reverse turn.

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FEATURE RC

A little luxury FLAIR 0208 643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk

Eye in the sky PARROT 0121 359 2380 www.parrot.com/uk Parrot is a global expert in consumer drones, with the Bebop drone the latest addition of its portfolio.

The Bebop drone is a flying action camera, controlled via a smartphone or tablet, and features a stabilised, fully HD, 14-megapixel camera, allowing the user to shoot both stills and high quality video like a professional.

The 180-degree fisheye-lens can be controlled via the dedicated app and streams live to the piloting screen of the app, allowing the user to control and see what the Bebop is filming in real-time. Content captured is stored on the Bebop’s internal flash memory (8gb) and can be downloaded onto the user’s smartphone or tablet and shared, edited or uploaded onto social media. All content is also geotagged, allowing the user to see exactly where the footage was shot on a map.

Users can download the accompanying Freeflight 3 application to access a whole host of features, available free on the iOS and Google Play store.

The Bebop drones weights only 390g, and is constructed using a hardwearing foam, meaning that it is resilient enough to fly outdoors, and light enough to fly indoors. The Skycontroller add-on allows the user to extend the wi-fi range of the drone to 2km as well as allowing the user to fly the drone with the precision of physical thumbsticks.

Speed freak TOY STATE 020 84405060 www.toystate.com

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This year, Flair will introduce pre-schoolers to one of the most prestigious car brands in the world, Ferrari, with a colourful car collection that includes a stunning first Ferrari RC. The Ferrari Play and Go F2012 Remote Control Car features an infrared steering wheel-shaped controller, with easy to hold handles on the side.

The colourful Ferrari moves backwards and forwards, featuring real moving Pirelli P Zero wheels, a front and rear spoiler, a personal driver and sponsorship to complete the racing experience.

This RC playset vehicle is ideal for aiding development through play, hand-eye coordination, and imagination in budding racing drivers – not to mention a luxury ride for any child.

The Nikko brand has been committed to speed, performance and innovation for nearly six decades. Partnering globally with an unmatched portfolio of high octane, iconic licensed automotive brands, as well as leading lifestyle and entertainment properties such as James Bond 007, Red Bull, DC Super Friends and WWE, Nikko brings kids only fun! the highest levels of quality, imagination and fun Experience the multi-terrain driving action of tthe new VaporizR2. Then hold on tight to Line, featuring the MINI enjoy the adrenaline-pumping speed of Nikko’s Evo-Pro E vehicle replicas from popular racing circuits.

Countryman WRC and many other licensed vehic enjoy the rugged performance of the Still looking for more fun? Head off-road and enjo Shadow Class Ford F-150! Nikko continues to bring the excitement of racing and offbr road adventure to RC fans around the globe. glob After nearly 60 years of innovation in the RC vehicle category, what’s next for the global RC leader? Nikko is taking the thrills of auto racing from fantasy to reality through new sponsorships with racing teams s worldwide. Currently enjoying its first season partnering with enjoy Tommy Baldwin Racing Racin on the No. 7 Nikko RC/ Toy State car in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Nikko recently finalised Sp terms on a sponsorship agreement with Sebastien Loeb spon Racing. This new programme brings the Nikko race n livery to Europe, with the nine-time world Eur champion, Sebastien Loeb, behind the wheel.

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FEATURE RE

Bigjigs

WOODEN NT TOYS OYS

Wooden it be nice…

They are beautiful and they hold a very special place in the hearts of parents.

Wooden toys will never go out of style, TnP talks to some key suppliers

T

here is something authentic about wooden toys - a level of craftsmanship which appeals to consumers, while children are taken with the creativity, look and feel, and this all means the category has endless appeal.

“Wooden toys need to have a natural quality to them,” agrees Green Board Games CEO, Keith Grafham.

“This is something consumers expect and want, but it is important to still bring innovation. Our wooden products are high quality, creative products which don’t require glue and become usable active toys.”

Being different While consumers have certain expectations when it comes to the quality of a wooden toy, they also expect the category to offer them something different.

This means suppliers have to keep inventing and differentiating themselves from others.

One such company is Great Gizmos with Brand and Marketing Manager Sarah Dayus explaining their wooden toy range from Plan Toys is “different to anything else on the market”.

Sarah says: “The story behind the brand is remarkable, consistently developing products with a strong

commitment to contribute positively to the environment. The entire range is refreshed often and each toy focuses on developing children’s skills while also having fun.

Trends have moved back towards traditional play We’ve and our range refi ned our complements this.” manufacturing One company who certainly knows the ins process over the and outs of wooden toys last 30 years so we is Bigjigs. Global can respond Marketing Coordinator relatively quickly to Alice Chagnis explains newly emerging how the company keeps on top of emerging consumer trends, trends. “We’ve refined when it became our manufacturing clear that dinosaurs process over the last 30 would be huge in years so we can respond 2015 we relatively quickly to newly emerging consumer immediately began trends, for example, when work on our new it became clear that Dino Range dinosaurs would be huge collection in 2015 we immediately began work on our new Alice Chagnis, Dino Range collection of Bigjigs Toys wooden rail accessories and full 49-piece set.”

“

”

The importance of display We know that consumers can quickly

RETAIL COMMENT “Wooden toys have a really appealing classic feel to them that people like. They’re always strong sellers for us and we’ve built up a bit of a reputation locally for being the go to place for this style of toy. It’s a nice point of difference for us. Bigjigs Rail is a particularly popular wooden range for us.”

Mark Stewart, Wise Owl Toys, Worcester

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fall in love with a wooden toy, but the onus often falls on retailers to showcase these products in the very best light. But how can you do this, and how can suppliers help?

“Wooden toys are generally tactile,” says Keith. “They need to be played with and touched to be appreciated. We offer POS and demo models on our wooden toys to enable shops to let the customer really see what they are getting.”

Keith adds that Green Board also supply online videos and examples “to fully demonstrate the play value and bring the contents to life.”

Great Gizmos also support retailers with branded display stands and Sarah points out: “Where these have been placed sales have far exceeded expectations as customers are able to shop the range more easily.”

She adds that Great Gizmos work flexibly with retailers and can offer bespoke display solutions to meet individual requirements.

From Bigjigs’ point of view, Alice says it is important to demonstrate the long-lasting, practical and aesthetic qualities of wooden toys.

To support retailers in their efforts, Alice says: “We supply Bigjigs Rail demo tables, which is often the first thing train-mad youngsters make a beeline for in a toy shop! We also offer a range of Bigjigs Rail stands as a space-efficient display solution for even the smallest of shops and this year we’ve introduced a new Pocket Money stand complete with stock of 15 different collectable playthings.

We also do a lot on social media and are always looking to feature stockists of our products, so get in touch if you’d like to be featured!”

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S

!

G N I H S A M es

m a G d r a o B n e e r G ! t i h t s l a te

• Landing August 2015 • Pre-order Now

NEW

• Social media campaign • In store marketing support

See our full range at: www.greenboardgames.com

Call: 01494 538999 01494 538646

sales@greenboardgames.com

FEATURE

WOODEN TOYS

Eco friendly GREAT GIMZOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk

Wooden wonders DKL MARKETING 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk Wonderworld is a leading brand of wooden toys for children aged 18 months and above. From innovative ball runs to educational toys, the range has a fantastic variety of toys to suit any retail store. Made from high quality rubber wood, Wonderworld toys are strictly eco-friendly: for every tree used in production, two more are planted.

Stand out stars for 2015 are the young mini vehicles, perfect for imaginative role-play. Each vehicle features a fun character design, such as Dog Police Car and Moo Moo Tractor, to engage children’s imaginations.

Another key collection in the Wonderworld range is the Role Play Kitchens, which includes a Cooker and Stove, Refrigerator, Sink, Washing Machine, and Little Chef Station. Built to last, these fantastically designed kitchen sets are durable and sturdy with a sleek painted finish.

To add even more play value to the Wonderworld Role Play Kitchens there is also a selection of accessories available to enhance the role-play experience. The Fruit and Veggie Baskets come with six food items that can be cut and stuck back together, and the Wonder Cash Register features a real calculator and toy money.

As with all DKL ranges, Wonderworld is supported by a full instore support programme, high profile marketing and social media campaign, and dedicated planograms, all to drive specifically targeted consumers into store.

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Great Gizmos’ ecofriendly collection of traditional wooden toys from Plan has a vast array of environmentally ethical toys that are suitable from birth and promise to open up a world of fun in 2015.

Plan Toys has an inspirational collection of naturally coloured wooden toys that appeal to both boys and girls from birth.

Suitable for when a baby reaches the age of one, PlanToys has a whole host of pull-along toys and vehicles. The Pull-Along Duck will flap his feet as he moves across the floor as well as moving his wings up and down. For budding racers, kids can start young with the Animal Train that includes three animal racers that can race as individual vehicles or be used as a pull-along toy.

PlanToys has a range of puzzles suitable for children from the age of two. Children can learn all about animals with the new Animal Puzzle that included six different animals including a tiger, elephant and monkey that children must match together. Alternatively the Vehicle Puzzle allows children to see the drivers of each vehicle including a spacecraft, helicopter, car and submarine.

For traditional play, the Plan Dollhouses and accessories make an ideal first play home for little girls. This year sees a fabulous new house entering the neighbourhood with the Creative Doll House.

This modern living suite has three units, which can be arranged up to 10 different ways. With a moveable staircase, solar cell roofs and decorative walls that move, this house is the perfect place to set up home. There are great outdoor accessories available from Patio Furniture that includes deckchairs and a parasol to a Playground that features a slide, seesaw and a sandbox.

Game on JUMBO GAMES 01707 289289 www.jumbo.eu

Make your move WINNING MOVES 0207 298 9507 www.winningmoves.co.uk The Waddingtons Collection of 3 in 1 Backgammon, Chess and Draughts set represents the more traditional side of the company’s board game range.

This premium bundle includes three classics: hand crafted wooden Chess, Draughts and Backgammon, made with the finest materials available.

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Goula is known for its beautiful high-quality wooden puzzles and games suitable for children aged two plus. Goula is a popular and trusted brand as it brings an educational aspect to children’s playtime. All Goula wooden puzzles and games are produced using high quality, sustainable wood.

Uncle Goose Classic ABC Blocks with Pull Wagon W-28 023287 Uncle Goose Nursery Rhyme 28 Block “Best of” Set NR-28 120047

Red Toolbox Mini Soccer Table Kit JK002

Uncle Goose Alphablanks Uppercase ABC Blocks AB-A 600099

Red Toolbox Pirate Ship K099

Red Toolbox Truck Catapult JK005

Skipper 10” Contender Yacht: Hula SKIP0119

Skipper Ride ‘n’ Roll Bumper Car SKIP0500

Skipper Ride ‘n’ Roll Lady Bird SKIP0503

Skipper 10” Contender Yacht: UK Flag SKIP0334

See our website to view the full range of our traditional toys

www.asobi.co.uk

T: 01628 200077 • E: info@asobi.co.uk asobitoys

@asobi_toys

FEATURE

WOODEN TOYS

Aye, aye Skipper ASOBI 01628 200077 www.asobi.co.uk Keeping with tradition, Asobi has expanded its wooden toy range to introduce Skipper toys to the range. Skipper is a brand that prides itself on making beautiful, handcrafted wooden pond yachts for more than 20 years. Branching out from its pond yachts, it has also produced a variety of ride-ons made from wood and EVA foam. With traditional patterns, Skippers’ products aim to engage children in active imaginative play and also promoting social interactions.

Skipper sits nicely alongside Red Tool Box. Its wooden kits and children’s tool sets create the perfect environment for parent and child bonding, surrounding fun-filled building games for kids. Parents and kids work together as a creative team, learn from each other, communicate and achieve real-life accomplishments.

For the younger audience Uncle Goose offers wooden blocks in many different designs and languages from the basic ABC learning blocks to periodic table building block. All are printed with non-toxic, colour ink to avoid destroying non-renewable forests.

They’re made of basswood that’s cut from industry-owned and managed land in Michigan.

Engineered for play KIDKRAFT +31203058620 www.kidkraft.com KidKraft is a proven leader in the wooden toys and furniture industry, with over 40 years of experience, specialising in toys that are inventive, interactive and educational.

Play kitchens, dollhouses, doll furniture and train sets are just some of the many items that KidKraft is known for throughout the world.

KidKraft also makes children’s furniture items such as chairs, tables, train tables, vanities and beds. In fact, if it goes in children’s bedrooms, there’s a good chance KidKraft makes it.

Because KidKraft was founded by engineers, the integrity of its designs goes beyond what the eye can see, resulting in higher quality products and customer satisfaction. Everything KidKraft sells is designed by a team of dedicated, experienced engineers who focus on making each product as safe and sturdy as possible.

KidKraft uses a wide range of wood – including beech and birch for train track pieces and strong poplar and pine for furniture – that has been sourced from around the world. Sturdy fir is often used for KidKraft’s large outdoor items, resulting in durable sandboxes and playhouses that look gorgeous even after a long summer, rainy weather and marathon play sessions.

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Wood works for HTI HTI

01253 778888 www.htigroup.co.uk HTI provides a fun range of Peppa Pig wooden puzzles and toys. The range offers a selection of colourful Peppa designs across classic lines that have been designed to encourage early learning and develop hand-eye coordination.

HTI’s own Wood Works range of traditionally crafted, premium quality wooden toy lines includes puzzles for children of ages 18 months upwards. The Wood Works pre-school offering comprises prises colourful chunky shape sorters, a learning clock, k, alphabet and more.

Right on track FLAIR 0208 633 0320 uk www.flairplc.co.uk ded a new GP Flair has added n games face to wooden tion of a with the addition iends Thomas & Friends o its collection to portfolio.

Perfect for children aged 18 months plus, this collection off quality wooden games includes both new and familiar ing while playing. play concepts that will enhance learning The Wooden Dominoes and Track Puzzle has 28 dualsided dominoes and four engines pieces.

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Visit - www.ggtrade.co.uk or call us! - 01293 543221

Wooden

TOYS GIFTS and great ideas!

New for 2015 In stock now and ready to order! trade.bigjigstoys.co.uk bigjigstoys

@bigjigstoys

bigjigstoysltd

FEATURE

WOODEN TOYS

KidKraft - Creating quality wooden toys for girls and boys!

Wheeling out the wood GREEN BOARD GAMES 01494 538999 www.greenboardgames.com The Build & Drive range consisting of a Truck, Tractor and Bulldozer allows kids to create their very own masterpiece. Each easy-to-construct kit provides a fabulous end result that is great fun to play with. No glue or tools are required, so there’s no mess to clear up or unstick. Simply slot the FSC wooden pieces together, incorporating the remote control motor with relevant sound, and the remote controlled vehicle is ready to go.

From down on the ground to up in the air, GBG’s Solar Powered range features a Biplane, Triplane and Helicopter, all with predesigned printed skins. The positioning of the solar panel adds to the fun of these great toys, making the propellers spin whether in daylight or lamplight!

GBG’s Robotic Dinosaur Range has three different dinosaurs, a T-Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and a Robotic Mammoth. These wonderful toys are sound activated, triggered to move and roar with a single clap. Last year’s new addition, the Build and Learn range, has been a growing offering from GBG with Creepy, Zoo, Danger and Farm animals, perfectly sized to create any type of scene, now incorporating 16 different animals. These quick and easy to build designs also come with printed skins and a fast fact sheet relating to the animal, so kids can learn key information as they build.

Marketing support is available for all retailers, including POS for the Trucks and Dinosaurs help consumers to see a complete construction in operation and 24 packs of the Build and Learn’s animals come packed in a CDU.

Contact Us! t: +31203058620 e: europesales@kidkraft.com www.kidkraft.com toysnplaythings.co.uk 70

A world of wonder BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 trade.bigjigstoys.co.uk

Play on

Bigjigs Toys has a wealth of experience to call upon when it comes to wooden toys, delighting young minds with exciting, educational toys for 30 years.

New for 2015 is the beautifully designed Sunflower Cottage, complete with gender-neutral colour scheme, six-doll family, 27 furniture pieces and a sheet of stickers for customised decoration.

The new Home & Garden Furniture Set extends imaginative play even further with 22 extra pieces to add to Sunflower Cottage or any of the other dolls houses in the Bigjigs Heritage Playset collection.

Joining the Cooking and Role Play range is the new 51cm-high Market Stall with removable stripy canvas awning and eight sections for role-play foods, separated by removable wooden dividers.

The three new Play Planks sets are a simple type of construction toy that are ripe for building fun. Available in natural, marine and sunset colours, these lightweight yet tough little planks can be stacked into all manner of designs.

The Wonderworld range includes Nursery, Pre-school, Mini Vehicles, Educational and Role Play.

facebook.com/DKL.Toys

08450533333 www.littletikes.co.uk With more customers looking for outdoor toys with a natural look while maintaining a responsibility to the environment, Little Tikes has a beautiful range with wood sourced from FSC forests, which promote responsible woodland management. Ensuring there is something for everyone, the Little Tikes Woodland Play range caters for all budgets and spaces from swings sets to sand and picnic tables. The Buckingham Climb ‘n Slide is an all-inone garden activity play centre designed to keep little ones entertained. The activity tower playhouse comes packed with features including three different types of swings, a slide, a climbing wall and a sandpit.

Unique design.

Different shape, sound & colour in each block

Rainbow Sound Blocks

twitter.com/DKLtoys

DKL Marketing Ltd 11 Deer Park Road, Northampton NN3 6QD, UK

JULY 2015

LITTLE TIKES

tel 01604 678780 • fax 01604 678787 • email dkl@dkl.co.uk • web www.dkl.co.uk

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FEATURE

CHRISTMAS STOCKING FILLERS

Stocking up Hung by the chimney, on a bedpost or a door handle, a fully stuffed Christmas stocking means one thing – Christmas day is here! TnP takes a look at the stocking fillers set to make Christmas 2015 the merriest yet

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or 364 days of the year, a big sock is a big sock, but for one magical day it becomes a festive bag full to the brim with little gifts and treats.

Traditionally, these were filled with fruit, nuts and little trinkets, and children’s main presents. But in 2015 it’s all about blind bags, card games, mini figures and much more. Digging into a stocking is the important warm up to the main event – the gifts have to be cool for kids, and attractively priced for adults Cartamundi’s fantastic range ticks both of those boxes, and Trudi Bishop, Head of Marketing and Licensing at Cartamundi Group says the company has some very special toys for this year.

Cartamundi

Winning Moves

“Before Christmas we expect to be able to announce further additions to the many successful launches so far in the Shuffle range, among them the Shuffle MONOPOLY JUNIOR card game,” she says. “Other branded material will be appearing relating to major end-of-year film launches, notably Disney’s The Good Dinosaur.”

The price is right

Icon Live

Price is a key component to a winning stocking filler; they have to be cheap enough to entice impulse purchases, but that doesn’t necessarily mean cheap.

Trudi says although price is important, it should be “allied to quality.”

“Take, for example, a deck of Pitch Black cards. It has a striking minimalist approach to playing card illustration, one that combines a deep black background with thin lines and geometrical shapes in either white or red. That on its own would be attractive; supported by a price point under four pounds, it is even more appealing.”

Savvy retailers will use this flexibility to ensure that impulse purchases and add-on sales are

available throughout. Intelligent merchandising makes all the difference, and gives busy parents the opportunity to pick up stocking fillers alongside the bigger purchases.

The classic and proven position for these pocket money lines, of course, is at the point of purchase: in front of, alongside, above, under and any other place by the till gives them great exposure. Trudi says this space is “essential” for making the most of stocking fillers, and that products in these key areas often see sales spikes around the Christmas period.

Beyond the till, the options are limitless. A licensed blind bag hanging alongside a corresponding hero product or playset is a nobrainer, and with so many big ticket items on sale this year with supporting movies – think Jurassic World, Minions, Star Wars, and the Avengers – these products are in abundance.

More than anything, though, variety is key. Retailers that offer gift buyers a wide choice stand to greatly benefit.

MUM SAYS! Sharon Palmer is mum to Jared (9) and Lizzie (6). She told TnP exactly what she looks for in the perfectly filled stocking...

“I still remember the excitement I had delving into mine on Christmas morning before my parents were up and awake. They’re a very important part of the day for kids. I spend around £20-25 on each stocking and make sure that it’s filled with lots of different goodies. Usually I’ll fill them with a couple of whichever collectable the kids are into at the time, a classic wooden toy – ball in a cup was a winner last year – some sweeties and maybe an accessory or add-on from their main gift. Last year it was a figure from a playset for Jared and a refill for a craft toy for Lizzie. These toys aren’t an afterthought, but it does help if I can get them all in one go with the main present.”

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FEATURE

CHRISTMAS STOCKING FILLERS

Deck the halls CARTAMUNDI www.cartamundi.com

Movie magic ICON LIVE

The continuing expansion of the Shuffle line from Cartamundi is driven by two major selling points.

Firstly, there’s the Shuffle concept itself. It’s a way to play card games with support from tablets and smartphones. An optional free app adds a whole new dimension to the cardplaying fun. Secondly the range is based on popular brands including Hasbro brands Transformers, My Little Pony, PlayDoh, Guess Who and Monopoly Deal, and more recently Disney Cars and Disney Frozen.

It’s no surprise that Frozen has been a recent addition to this very successful range. With the release of the allnew Walt Disney Animation Studios short announce film Frozen Fever, and recently announced plans for Frozen 2, brand awareness is certain to remain sky-high. Shuffle Frozen offers a matching game in which the ap app helps players. This and other Shuffle launches planned this year will no doubt add to the digita digital delight for Shuffle fans.

01444238365 www.iconlive.com

Icon Live’s first foray into world of movie merchandise was in 2014 with a range of Disney’s Frozen accessories for children and adults which continues to be the company’s and retailers’ top seller as Icon Live extends the ranges in time for this summer.

This year, Icon Live entered the world of Minions Madness and launched a wide range of licensed merchandise, including a broad range of accessories, impulse and collectables together with an extensive Father’s Day gifting range. These have proved extremely popular with retailers and consumers alike and sales are increasing week on week with the recent release of the new movie.

Inside Out will also be a focus for Icon Live, to support the movie launch in July, with a range of jewellery and accessories to bring the animation to life. The colourful and fun range includes necklaces, alice band and purses.

Later in 2015, Icon Live will be launching a range of licensed accessories for both children and adults to celebrate the arrival of the next film in the Star Wars franchise. Icon Live will be working across all retail to offer a complete range to cater for aspiring Luke Skywalkers, Darth Vaders and of course Princess Leias! Products will include bandanas, reflective bag tags, key rings, cuff links, collectables and the obligatory Yoda ears or Leia hair buns.

Next year, Icon Live will be launching its Marvel Avengers range where boys can harness their inner superhero with Avengers accessories, novelty dress up, collectables and wristbands and can head back to school armed with Avengers bag tags and wrap band rulers. Coinciding with the launch of the next blockbuster in the franchise, Captain America: Civil War in the spring, adult fans too will be catered for with accessories including innovative cufflinks, key rings and other gifts.

Also in development to support key 2016 theatrical releases are ranges of Alice in Wonderland and the much-anticipated Finding Dory.

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Rule the seven kingdoms WINNING MOVES 0207 298 9507 www.winningmoves.co.uk The highly anticipated Minions Movie will have its own Top Trumps, with cards based around everyone’s favourite little yellow creatures. Star Wars fans will also be catered for with the Star Wars Top Trumps. These new introductions will join the already strong performing Top Trumps range which includes Big Bang Theory, Shopkins and the number one selling Top Trumps pack, Disney’s Frozen. The Top Trumps collection will also boast a new Best of Bond pack for older Top Trumps fans.

The Monopoly must have for Christmas is the new multi-award winning Game of Thrones - see the US fantasy drama series immortalised in the classic Monopoly format. This special licensed collector’s edition of the classic board game will feature the infamous locations.

For those who love shopping, Shopkins is the hottest new super cute characters for kids to collect. In Shopkins Guess Who the classic guessing game meets the world of Shopkins.

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Š 2015 Disney/Pixar. Š 2015 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro.

Order now!

And get it delivered on time for Christmas sales

Sales@Cartamundi.co.uk Ph: +44 1268 511 522 www.shuffle.cards

REVIEW

LICENSING EXPO Licensing Expo Show Preview

It’s a showstopper Licensing Expo in Vegas has been and gone, and TnP were in Vegas for the largest licensing exhibition in the world. We caught up with some UK attendees who gave us the lowdown on the show

T

“

he UK contingent was out in force HTI is a at Licensing Expo growing 2015. The Las business and Vegas-based show is the driving world’s largest licensing event in the world, rivaled innovation with only in size and caliber by our licensor our own Brand Licensing partners is Europe. always worth The 35th annual show travelling for took place from Tuesday 9 to Thursday 11 June at the Chris Spalding, HTI Mandalay Bay Convention Centre. While the temperature outside was scorching, (although our American friends reliably informed us it was at least 10 degrees cooler than last year, but it didn’t feel any different to Team TnP), the temperature inside the convention centre was just as hot with the best of the world’s musthave brands on display.

Being Vegas, there was no shortage of razzmatazz at Licensing Expo. Warner Bros. Consumer

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Products exclusively unveiled the Batmobile from Batman V Superman while also showing off costumes from the flick, and from the upcoming Wonder Woman film.

Boxer Mike Tyson made an appearance, as did wrestler Hulk Hogan, comic actor Seth Green – who we spotted posing for numerous pictures with excited restaurant staff in the food court, and numerous teen starlets could be seen singing their hearts out at regular intervals.

As mentioned in our preview of Licensing Expo in our June issue, the show’s impact on the UK toy industry should not be underestimated, that is why so many UK visitors and exhibitors make the 10 hour flight from London to Vegas each year.

One of those who made the trip was HTI’s CEO Chris Spalding. HTI, of course, have a vibrant licensed offering and Chris explained that a trip to Vegas is a must for the company.

Retail Comment: “The Vegas Licensing Expo for us is an opportunity to look ahead to see what properties are coming through. We find out a lot of information about the licence so we can plan out the marketing calendar and buying strategy. We attend as a buying and marketing team so we can work together to look at how heavily we might back something. It gives us more information going in to previews so we understand the licence before we even see the toys and games. This show was really useful and we have formed some great partnerships that will give us a real point of difference on some of the licenses coming through. There’s a lot of exciting new properties on the horizon but also good to see a lot of old ones popping back up!”

Rebecca Rees, Head of Marketing & Licensing, The Entertainer

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Speaking about the show, he told TnP: “Vegas was a great show for us with over 30 appointments with both existing and potential licensors. The big show reels were really inspiring and set the creative juices going!”

In terms of business at the show, Chris explained that the HTI team “were shown some really strong business opportunities which will allow us to further drive our licensed sales globally. HTI is a growing business and driving innovation with our licensor partners is always worth travelling for.”

Another UK attendee was MV Sports & Leisure. Like Chris, Sales & Marketing Director Phil Ratcliffe said Licensing Expo is a great way to meet current and potential licensors in one place in a very short period of time. One of the benefits of attending, Phil explained, is the opportunities the show offers; “Licensees are often able to see visual updates on films and eventbased properties earlier in Vegas than in the UK.” He added: “The show is a great place to network and compare experiences with licensees in other categories and discuss licenses with key retailers.”

Pre-school hits were no doubt high on Golden Bear’s mind while they were in Vegas.

GM Barry Hughes told TnP that the show is vital for them.

“Vegas continues to be very important to us as a company. With around 95% of our business being based on licenses, it is a fantastic opportunity for us to further relationships with existing licensors, develop international opportunities and see what new licenses are coming up.”

The SEGA Europe team were out in force at the event with Jason Rice Director of EMEA licensing at SEGA

JULY 2015

Europe Ltd, telling TnP: “This year’s Licensing Expo allowed SEGA to showcase the continued extension of its most iconic brand Sonic The Hedgehog with its new CG series Sonic Boom. Already a ratings winner in the US and France, Sonic Boom is set to roll out this year across international broadcasters in key markets supported by master toy partner Tomy. The full breadth of the SEGA portfolio including our SEGA retro collection and Football Manager was also open to discussion during the Licensing Expo.”

Jason said Licensing Expo gave the SEGA team “a great opportunity to showcase our IPs to an international audience across all sectors: manufacturers, distributors, retailers and agents. We had meetings with a

“

Licensees are often able to see visual updates on films and eventbased properties earlier in Vegas than in the UK Phil Ratcliffe, MV Sports

”

variety of new partners across several categories with a particular focus on Sonic Boom given the new CG TV show rolls out across many EMEA later this year.”

And UK retailers were out in force too with The Entertainer and Tesco just a few of those on site. Meeting with TnP at the show, the team from The Entertainer said they have

attended Vegas for five years and confirmed that it is an extremely important show for them to be at.

The show itself certainly made a visit from retailers worthwhile with over 5,000 brands and properties represented, and nearly 500 exhibitors spanning various categories such as characters and entertainment, brands and agents, fashion and, art and design.

Speaking to TnP before the Advanstar organised event, Jessica Blue, Vice President, Licensing Expo, explained to us why the show is so important: “Licensing Expo is a mustattend show because attendees can see the largest selection of brands in the world available for licence, all in one place. Nearly 400 of our exhibitors don’t exhibit at any other licensing trade shows and only 80 of our 450+ exhibitors show at our sister show, BLE. Licensing Expo is a unique opportunity to meet-and-greet and make deals with the industry’s leading power brokers, all in three days.”

The three-day show was choco-block with different events from the International Licensing Award Winners where Disney’s Frozen reigned supreme to the Opening Night party and of course, the Licensing University which has a series of talks and presentations across the duration of the show.

Dates for next year’s event have already been confirmed and the show will run from Tuesday 21 to Thursday 23 June.

Next year…

Licensing Expo 2016 will once again take place in the Mandalay Bay Convention Centre. Next year’s event will run from 21-23 June 2016.

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TNP

AMBASSADORS

Thundering into shops Lucky 9-year-old Gabe got his hands on the Thunderbirds Are Go Interactive Tracy Island Play Set from Vivid. It’s timely as the range is launching in shops this July. Gabe’s dad Scott tells us how he got on Thunderbirds, the cult British kids scifi series, marks its 50th anniversary this year. Back in 1992, the BBC ran repeats of the show which Our son, proved such a hit with a new who has generation of fans that the Tracy never shown Island play set sold out. Such was the deafening sound of much interest disconsolate kids that children’s in TV stalwart Blue Peter came to Thunderbirds, the rescue, rather appropriately, was gripped and showed us how to make our very own Tracy Island play set by the set, out of “junk”. I remember it well, even going so helping younger siblings transform far as to toilet rolls and yoghurt pots into, declare it well, a big pile of toilet rolls and yoghurt pots. Relaunched once “well sick” more in 2000, Thunderbirds before went on to be an unexpected hit inviting his again. With the new computergenerated animated series besideThunderbirds Are Go launched himself friend earlier this year, Tracy Island is over to play back for 2015 – this time given all the bells, whistles and flashing lights kids have come to expect.

This set from Vivid requires a bit of assembly but nothing too taxing. The

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parts are clearly labelled and large enough to slot together relatively easily – if you can contain the excited hands of the average nine-year-old boy. There are also 40-odd stickers to place, and don’t worry if you build the island before fitting the batteries – the panel is cleverly located as part of ‘Brains’ Lab’ so you don’t need to flip it upside down.

So what do you get out of the box? Well, the all-talking and flashing island, of course, plus a rather nifty wrist communicator which churns out familiar phrases from the franchise. What you don’t get are the Thunderbird ships themselves, and you will be needing those to get any further joy out of Tracy Island.

The Thunderbirds Craft Super Set features all four ships and these ships interact with the island using smart technology. Thankfully we also had the vehicle set, and this is where Tracy Island really comes into its own.

Thunderbirds 1, 2 and 3 all have their own launch pads and sequences, triggered by pressing buttons on the play set. Thunderbird 3 rises

Rocket man! majestically from the mountain, while Thunderbird 1 emerges casually from under the rollback swimming pool (every home should have one).

Thunderbird 2 – surely everyone’s favourite – is the show-stopper though, trundling through the blast door before the palm trees part and runway rises ready for blast off.

Throughout the launch sequences and during play, lights flash, sound effects crash and the familiar gung-ho phrases of the evil-bashing family ring out. Our son, who has never shown much interest in Thunderbirds, was gripped by the set, even going so far as to declare it “well sick” before inviting his beside-himself friend over to play. For the uninitiated, “well sick” means Vivid could well have another FAB hit on their hands. Thunderbirds are go!

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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: Miniland Educational Giantte Deco Company: DKL Marketing Tel: 01604 678780 Web: www.dkl.co.uk

Product: Heroes Evel Knievel-inspired bike Company: Kiddimoto Tel: 01749 871175 Web: www.kiddimoto.co.uk

Product: Star Wars balloons Company: Pioneer Europe Tel: 0800 281215 Email: pelorder@qualatex.com

JULY 2015

Product: National Geographic Adult Jigsaw Puzzles Company: Clementoni Tel: 020 3206 1397 Web: www.clementoni.com

Product: LeapPad Platinum Company: LeapFrog Tel: 01895202840 Web: www.leapfrog.com

Product: DigiOwl with Tree House Company: Silverlit Tel: 01923 606147 Web: www.silverlit.com

Product: Zinc Flyte Case Scooter Company: Hy-Pro Tel: 01582 670 100 Web: www.hy-pro.co.uk

Product: Fisher-Price My Friend Bing Company: Mattel Tel: 01628 500000 Web: www.fisher-price.co.uk

Product: Paw Patrol Beach Rescue Game Company: Spin Master Tel: 01628 535000 Web: www.spinmastertoys.co.uk

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LICENSING

NEWS

Hot Wheels is making play epic

LEGO’S NEW DIMENSION Hot on the heels of the launch of LEGO Worlds at the start of June, LEGO and Warner Bros.

Interactive Entertainment have released fresh details for another LEGO videogame - LEGO Dimensions.

LEGO Dimensions, which merges physical brick building with interactive console gameplay, will include gameplay from some of the world’s biggest entertainment properties, including The Simpsons, Doctor Who, Ghostbusters, Portal, Jurassic World, Midway Arcade, LEGO Chima (pictured) and Scooby Doo. These fan favourite worlds, most of which have never before been in a LEGO videogame, will converge with the previously announced DC Comics, The Lord of the Rings, The LEGO Movie, The Wizard of Oz, LEGO Ninjago and Back to the Future worlds in one thrilling adventure playable with the LEGO Dimensions Starter Pack.

Mattel’s Hot Wheels is partnering with the Scouts Association, to engage with over 300,000 Beavers and Cubs by creating a unique new resource pack that amplifies the brand in a fun and educational way.

The year-long partnership will be supported with an extensive marketing programme that will engage Beavers and Cubs through a range of communications including branded activity packs, editorial in Get Active magazine, online and social media engagement.

The partnership will also be amplified at the Beaver and Cub Fun Day in June, where children will be able to visit the ultimate Hot Wheels Epic Race experience and put their racing skills to the test with awesome track creations.

Wendy Hill, Director of Brand Activation says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Scouts as it’s a fantastic way to engage with our target audience and existing brand advocates, while recruiting new Hot Wheels fans right across the UK.”

Shop till you drop Everyone is embracing the ‘shop till you drop’ mantra with the announcement that Bulldog Licensing has added four more licensees to the Shopkins licensing programme.

The new partners are MV Sports and Leisure who will release wheeled goods including bikes and scooters. Goliath joins with a range of board games that are already seeing huge sales in the US and will be distributed in the UK by John Adams Leisure Ltd and Roy Lowe & Sons will produce socks. Sambro have signed on for bags and umbrellas; Spearmark for lunchware, tableware, drinkware and lighting; Topps for collectable cards, trading cards, sticker products and accessories; and VMC Accessories for headwear, scarves, gloves, sunglasses and phone/tablet cases and accessories. Bulldog Group MD Rob Corney says: “Shopkins are selling in colossal numbers and branded merchandise is flying off the shelves.”

DREAMING OF BEING IN A SPIN Spin Master has renewed its global agreement with DreamWorks Animation and will once again act as global master toy partner for the third instalment of How to Train Your Dragon.

The flick is due to hit cinemas June 2018 and Spin Master has planned an entire new line which will include plush, flying toys, figurines and more.

Adam Beder, Executive Vice President, Global Licensing, Spin Master, says: “Spin

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Master has been a proud partner of the How to Train Your Dragon franchise since its launch, and we are so pleased to be continuing this relationship into the next phase of the brand. The Dragons franchise has seen incredible success through its inspirational and entertaining storytelling. With a new movie on the way, we are thrilled to continue bringing these amazing characters to the children who love them.”

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MOVIE

NEWS

Brick by beak Rovio has announced a partnership with LEGO to develop a line of construction toys based on its mobile gaming hit Angry Birds and its forthcoming film. LEGO Angry Birds will be available in spring 2016, releasing alongside The Angry Birds Movie, a full-length feature film based on the popular gaming franchise.

“We are excited to bring Angry Birds to life in LEGO form, given the popularity of the game and its characters with fans of all ages, which will only be amplified by the forthcoming film,” said Jill Wilfert, Vice President, licensing & entertainment at The LEGO Group Pekka Rantala, Chief Executive Officer of Rovio added: “We’re really excited to build experiences together with this amazing best-in-class partner.”

Eddie Redmayne brings magic to Potter spin-off Eddie Redmayne has been cast in the starring role of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Warner Bros. Pictures’ first spin-off from the core Harry Potter movie franchise. Redmayne will play Newt Scaramanger, The Wizarding World’s pre-eminent magizoologist, in a film penned

by J.K. Rowling in her screenwriting debut.

Greg Silverman, President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production, Warner Bros. Pictures said the Academy Award-winning actor “has emerged as one of today’s most extraordinarily talented and acclaimed actors.”

David Yates, who directed the last four Harry Potter films will return for Fantastic Beasts’, and said he “couldn’t be more excited” to be working with Redmayne, “as we start this new adventure in J.K. Rowling’s wonderful world, and I know she feels the same way.” Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them has been slated for worldwide release on 18 November, 2016. Image: Jason Merritt - © 2015 Getty Images

down Tangled, Disney’s animated take on the classic tale of Rapunzel, is heading to the small screen.

Based on the 2010 feature film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, the new animated TV series is coming to Disney Channel in 2017.

Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi will reprise their roles as the voices of Rapunzel and Eugene respectively, for the animated series set between the end of Tangled and the beginning of followup short Tangled Ever After.

Om Nom’s hungry for success Om Nom, from mobile gaming hit Cut the Rope, is making the leap from the very small screen to the big screen. The game’s developer ZeptoLab is teaming up with Blockade on the CG-animated feature, tentatively title Om Nom: The Movie, with a release sometime in 2016.

What if the dinosaurs survived?

Millions of years ago an asteroid six miles wide destroyed every dinosaur on Earth.

But what if it missed?

That’s the question posed by Disney Pixar’s first trailer for The Good Dinosaur as the fated asteroid narrowly misses the planet and whizzes overhead as dinosaurs graze below.

With the extinction averted, The

JULY 2015

Good Dinosaur follows the adventures of an Apatosaurus named Arlo who makes an unlikely human friend and sets out on an epic journey through the harsh and mysterious landscape.

Released 2 June, the trailer racked up half a million views on the Disney UK official YouTube channel. The film will release in UK cinemas 27 Novermber, 2015.

Play

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LICENSING OPINION KELVYN GARDNER

Livin’ la vida Vegas LIMA MD Kelvyn Gardner is back from a trip to Licensing Expo in Vegas – was it worth attending? You bet it was

I

n the licensing business June means just one thing - Licensing Expo in Las Vegas.

June may be ‘busting out all over’ but in this one city in Nevada, especially, the industry struts its sunny-side stuff like at no other event.

Hardly surprising, really.

Vegas is a city of one thousand and one different types of entertainment and it’s a tough job to stand out, to appeal for those business dollars over the competition just as the myriad stages, theatres, cabarets, sideshows, day trips, shopping malls and others vie for the consumer buck from one end of The Strip to the other.

Also, just like a town where the newest entertainment acts and shows like Rock in Rio and the annual Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC as it’s ubiquitously known) find themselves hustling for ticket sales with the ever youthful stars like Donnie and Marie or Olivia Newton-John, so does the licensing business cherish and promote its evergreens.

There’s Sesame Street, Thomas

(20-years-old and some), Mickey Mouse and Batman, all holding back the tide against the wave of new IP headed by the likes of Minions, Shopkins, new Power Puff Girls and 2015 Thunderbirds.

OK, so the EDC may be something of a specialist taste for the modern DJ dance-allnight-crew but as you might imagine, specialist tastes are catered for all over Las Vegas.

“

Is Las Vegas the natural home for licensing’s biggest annual trade show? It would be hard to argue the opposite

”

Where else can you finish your last business meeting at 5pm and be shooting a real machine gun in a gallery at 5.30?

In Vegas they can’t even leave the business of eating alone, whether from endless new varieties of themed dinner shows to the consistent clash of classic restaurants with the newly arrived phalanx of celebrity chefs.

Seriously, what exactly does Gordon Ramsay have to do with burgers or Wolfgang Puck – hardly a chef with authentic Latin roots - with Italian food?

Las Vegas has a reasonable claim to be the city where business and entertainment are the same thing, everywhere.

Licensing as a commercial

process can pretty much make the same claim, as all of us in it are trying to make a dollar by entertaining folks with tangible consumer goods, themselves inspired by brands, TV shows, films, characters, sports and much, much more that touch people’s hearts and promote loyalty.

So is Las Vegas the natural home for licensing’s biggest annual trade show?

It would be hard to argue the opposite. We Brits can maybe afford to concede the point, as we have our own opportunity each October to show the world what we can do with the increasingly multi-territorial, genuinely pan-European, and visibly truly international Brand Licensing Europe.

There is a fantastic contrast between the two with old London and new Las Vegas. They are entirely complementary, I would say.

Whatever, there is most definitely a Las Vegas experience to be had for all the visitors to Licensing Expo.

Arriving home, after a flight probably packed with your industry peers, it’s a memory mix of (hopefully) exciting business done, of long walks from hotel room to convention centre, of box lunches quickly grabbed and munched in quiet corners, of dinners with and without clients and customers, with, and not very often without, a cocktail or two, and of trying to pick up on the latest rumour and gossip.

I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

LIMA the trade association for the licensing business www.licensing.org/uk email rbeaird@licensing.org

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 July 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2010

July 2010

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• Toy Story 3 brings much needed extra sales to the summer. With England’s disappointing showing in Brazil, this is a ďŹ llip to the trade. • Tesco dedicate their ‘Power Aisle’ to Toy Story 3 and we suggest that Tesco have taken over the mantle as a destination store for ďŹ lm merchandise vacated by Woolworth’s decline. • I’m very sad to report on the closure of Martin Yaffe. Ronnie Yaffe was an important supplier and one of us for many years, not only in business, but social occasions including his excellent parties at Toy Fair. • There is an air of optimism about the year. Silly Bandz is expected to do well and Hexbugs are also about to hit the U.K. • Jon Gregory joins Colin Lisle and ďŹ ve years later remains an essential cog of this efďŹ cient business machine.

July 2005 • LEGO announce that they will be exhibiting at the 2006 London Toy Fair. • Andrew Wood and Alan Munn join together to create the Macaws Partnership. The ICTI Care Process is launched to ensure safe and humane workplace environments for toy factory workers. A number of major retailers are already on board. • Toys R Us announce their supplier of the year – Character Group win the accolade. Ty are back in business having been saved by Mark Swallow who has bought the assets of Ty Europe with the company remaining in Gosport. • Littlewood’s stores have been sold to Primark for a mere £409 million. The new owners plan to retain only 40% of Littlewood’s 120 stores, with the remaining 72 being put up for sale. • John Lewis plan to open 10 new stores in the next few years.

July 1995 • Barry Groves leaves as Dekkertoys M.D. to take on a similar role at Leisuretime Toys. • I visit Meccano in Calais in the company of their sales director a certain Mr. Graham Brennan. An interesting trip, I ďŹ nd that their Calais headquarters are an exact copy of the Margate Hornby H.Q. because as toy historians know that once upon a time they were both owned by the same British company. • David Fogel and Gary Grant raise an amazing ÂŁ15,000 in their BTHA ‘Fun Day’ shop which in 1995 was a lorra money. • The Paul Goodwill Memorial fund raises ÂŁ8,100, the majority of which is given to the Bury Hospice where Paul was cared for so lovingly in his ďŹ nal days.

July 1985 • I can’t believe how daring I was to criticize the Toymaster catalogue for 1986 that had dropped down to an offer of just 160 items. I was invited up to Northampton to see for myself and had to admit that in terms of layout (A5) and content looked pretty good. 6 million will be printed with a TV and press campaign to hammer home the message ‘Visiting your Toymaster shop will be fun for all the family’. • Palitoy annoy a few retailers as they enter in to a direct to the public promotion with drinks company Campari, offering Trivial Pursuit at just ÂŁ17.50. including p. & p. The average retail trade buying price from Palitoy is ÂŁ18.60. plus delivery. • So peeing off retailers is hardly a new experience! • I am sad to report the death of Richard Kohnstam. One of his claims to fame was to suggest to the Lesney die cast company that their little die-cast cars should be called ‘Matchbox’ and be presented in a Matchbox. The rest as the say ‘Is History’. • Mega toy mogul Mr. Richard Beecham retires as Executive M.D. of Tamwade – owners of Pedigree Dolls & Toys.

As we all know Richard certainly didn’t retire completely as he worked with Peter Brown to found Flair Toys. • Our ‘In the Pink’ ďŹ nancial page written by the F.T.’s consumer affairs correspondent believes that when Toys R Us open their ďŹ rst 5 stores in October, that this will herald the start of a new aggression in toy retailing. • HOW RIGHT HE WAS!

JULY 2015

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