Toys n Playthings

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Helping everyone sell more

2015 March No.6 4 Vol. 3

Independently audited Independently audited ABC circulation circulation of ABC of5,130 5,130 July 2013 to 30 June 2014 1 1July 2013 to 30 June 2014

TP Debut on TV in 2015

CONTENTS Regular

2015 March No.6 4 Vol. 3

TEAM TnP

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Leader – with Mirella Anstey News – what’s the latest?

Quick Coffee Break with Barry Hughes from Golden bear Movie News – the latest from the silver screen Media News – the multimedia rundown Exhibition 15 Media Charts – the latest from Global Media on TV viewing figures What’s New – new products you need to get your hands on Toy Talk – the independent retailers have their say Trade Talk – we give suppliers a chance to talk business Licensing News – the hottest news from the world of licensing Don’t Miss – unmissable products for all buyers and retailers Step Back in Time – a slice of toy history from the industry’s longest running magazine

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Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Features 26

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Outdoor Toys - Everything kids need keep them entertained as the weather gets better Games & Puzzles – The very best product from this classic sector Interactive & Talking Toys – Toys that talk, walk and more Train Sets – Choo, choo: what’s new in train sets?

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Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

Special Report 10

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

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

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TnP TV is here! – Find out about TnP’s boundary-pushing new weekly TV show Mookie Toys – With our attention turning to spring and summer, Mookie Toys give us the lowdown on TP Toys, their fantastic outdoor brand Retail Interview – We catch up with Disney Store and SMF Toytown The Big Apple – Our report from the North American Toy Fair Safety First! – Malcolm Horner from Bureau Veritas gives you your regular safety update Hong Kong Calling – We take a look at the Hong Kong Licensing Show Toy Trust – we get the latest from the Toy Trust

Columnists 13 16 21 24 25 86 88

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The Media Whisperer – Columnist Clive Crouch looks at the importance of local TV Shop Talk – John Ryan talks looking good Retail Highs – The Entertainer’s Founder Gary Grant allows gives TnP’s Mirella a day of work experience The Independent and Secret Supplier – How old do you have to be to love toys?

Business Driver – Former European head of Hasbro John Harper on hiring and firing TnP Ambassadors – Our ambassadors test the toys you stock on your shelves Licensing Opinion – This month LIMA MD Kelvyn Gardner makes time for the movies

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

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

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Helping everyone sell more

It’s here!

TV Helping everyone sell EVEN more!

For more details on how you could proďŹ le your company and products to 60,000+ viewers contact Ryan Horwood on 01442 289930 ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

LEADER Mirella Anstey

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A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,195 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013

PUBLISHING

At the heart of retail Also published by Lema Publishing

licensing T O D A Y

W O R L D W I D E

magazine

onsumer confidence is running high according to reports and, talking to retailers and manufacturers alike, this certainly seems to be the case.

With Easter virtually upon us and the good weather news from The Met Office, the toy industry could be facing its best first and second quarters for quite some time.

We look forward to talking to more of you in the coming weeks and finding out more about your Easter and warm weather success stories.

This month I spent a fun and information-filled day with the guys from The Entertainer - no, not at Head Office but on the shop floor.

As you all know, I already spend a lot of my time in your shops, partly because of my job but actually, much more, because my kids insist upon it!

So, aside from seeing if they had Sky from know next to nothing about their jobs and how Paw Patrol in stock (they didn’t) I got my head they sell. Surely this is an important part of the around what great service is, how well these industry to get to grips with? Let me know your guys sell products and what consumers (other views. I’d also like to mention than me) want and look for in their toy the great efforts the BTHA are shops. putting in to ensure that our Toy Chatting to our Secret Supplier The most Fair is positioned at the most this month, I mentioned my belief likely Toy Fair opportune time possible for all that spending one day every five date for 2016 will in the industry. We currently or six months in a toy shop, would understand that the most likely be extremely beneficial to anybody be Sunday 24 Toy Fair date for 2016 will be working in the toy trade. And in his January to Sunday 24 January to Tuesday infinite wisdom and experience as Tuesday 26 26 January with Nuremberg due a top toy manufacturer, he agreed January with to open on the 27January. We with me! We will, of course, let you know the concluded Nuremberg due moment we hear otherwise. that so many to open on 27 We have a great magazine in the trade January for you this month, packed have no with industry-relevant content. understanding Our cover story is given over of the very to the team at Mookie Toys. people who Turn to page 17 to read all about TP Toys, sell our products in a Mookie’s outdoor range. TP Toys are due to daily basis - in fact we be TV advertised with the entire brand being showcased. This stint on TV will be TP Toys TV debut and you read about it in TnP first!

Speaking of the great outdoors, we feature toys centred on just that this month.

There are some really great toys featured this Lastly, I want to congratulate and month and the category is going strong yearextend my best wishes to Brian round, as suppliers tell us. We are also running features on Games & Puzzles, Train Sets and Simpson, of SMF Toys, and his Interactive Toys. beautiful wife Sarah who welcomed On another note, I want to invite you all to get their first baby, gorgeous little girl in touch with TnP’s Founder and MD, Malcolm Charlotte Rebekah into the world.

Naish to secure your spot in the TnP annual Brian, I expect to see you beaming but golf day! We have a super time at Goring and exhausted at AIS! Streetley, good food, a bit of liquid refreshment, That’s it from me, enjoy the issue, get great company - superb golf depends on you! If in touch and happy trading! you fancy it mark 23 June in your diary and email Malcolm on: malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Congratulations to Brian from TnP!

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NEWS The Entertainer recognised in prestigious list The Entertainer has been named in The Sunday Times ‘100 Best Companies To Work For’ list.

The company was ranked at arkable number 82, a remarkable his achievement as this e is the first year the group have taken part. ting They were competing n 1,050 against more than other businesses and essed. organisations assessed.

The methods of nd data-gathering and d analysis employed in the quest to find the country’s Best Companies to Work For mean that the list is widely acknowledged as the most extensive research into employee engagement carried out in

LeapFrog arms parents with learning know how

this country.

All the scores and ratings that are assessed to compile the list are based on employee opinions, yea the questionnaires and each year are revised and updated to cu reflect current workplace concerns Gary Grant, concerns.

Founder of the Entertainer, comment “To be included comments: Su in the Sunday Times Top 100 Com Companies list and being recognised and appreciated by our employees is both an encouragement and an honour that we won’t take for granted.”

LeapFrog has created a guide to support parents as they teach their children to read. As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, the company has created the ‘30 Ways in 30 Days’ guide which offers parents playful solutions and tools to tackle reading with their child at home.

Educational expert and editor of The Good Schools Guide, Janette Wallis, gives parents 30 non-taxing, fun and rewarding tips and ‘how to’ techniques to try at home as part of everyday family routine.

Tony Hicks, Chief International Officer at LeapFrog, comments: “LeapFrog was founded 20 years ago by a father who wanted to find a better way of teaching his son to read. Inspiring a love of reading and helping children achieve their full potential has been our passion ever since.”

Turn to page 21 to see how TnP’s Mirella Anstey got on during her day’s work at The Entertainer.

TREND SPOTTING This month, Kristin Morency Goldman from the US Toy Industry Association, asks an important question – what drives toy trends?

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It’s no secret that the toy industry has always been driven by trends.

Today’s kids are not only cognisant of what’s happening in their own communities and schools – they also have exposure to the latest worldwide fads and fashions through global and social media.

Kids are savvy consumers that ultimately drive the majority of purchase decisions for fashion, food and toys. According to research commissioned by the U.S. Toy Industry Association (TIA), six in 10 toy and game purchases resulted from an overt ask from a child.

Keeping up with what’s trending among kids is no easy task for the toy industry. According to TIA’s leading trend specialist Adrienne

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Kids are savvy consumers that ultimately drive the majority of purchase decisions for fashion, food and toys

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Appell some trend origins are fairly obvious, while others seemingly materialise out of thin air.

“For example, this year we’re seeing an upswing in dino-themed toys which makes sense given the upcoming releases of Jurassic World and The Good Dinosaur,” said Adrienne. “But we’re also seeing a major surge in water-themed toys of all kinds that aren’t licensed or obviously tied to any other pop culture trends”.

So what exactly drives trends for both licensed and non-licensed toys? According to toy inventor Don Rosenwinkel, President and COO at Big Monster Toys, “great ideas drive both sales and trends.”

As an inventor, Dan is constantly on the lookout for the next trend.

“Although we have no formal research department, we always keep our eyes open,” he says.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

A smashing new range As Marvel fans wait with bated breath for the release of the Avengers: Age of Ultron film on 24 April, LEGO has eased the yearning somewhat by announcing a new line of collectable play-sets.

The set features the all-star cast including Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Captain America (Chris Evans) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner).

The product was released early March and fans can get their hands on several sets including Iron Man vs. Ultron, Avengers Hydra Showdown, The Hulk Buster Smash, The Avengers Quinjet City Chase, Attack on Avengers Tower and The Hydra Fortress Smash.

Rob Hughes to leave Zeon Ltd Zeon’s Head of Character Licensing, Rob Hughes, is to depart the company on 31 March.

Rob has been with the company for the past five years following Zeon’s acquisition of his company Wesco in 2010. He managed the integration seamlessly and has been an important and valuable member of the Zeon team.

After 28 years in the industry, Rob has decided to hang up his licensing boots and enjoy some free time with his wife Kath.

Esther Jolley, General Manager, will handle character licensing after Rob’s departure.

“We spend hours online, we read magazines and books, and watch lots of TV and movies. We are looking for anything new or things that appear in more than one medium.”

Scott Brown, Co-Founder and Chief Merchant at Marbles the Brain Store, says: “broader cultural trends” tend to impact sales at his store.

“For example, while there is a significant trend towards anything and everything digital, we are seeing an interesting counter trend emerge consisting of consumers (primarily parents) pushing back against the digital uprising.

“They are looking for non-digital options for themselves and their children and are embracing the nostalgic qualities of products or those that offer a nice compromise between the digital and physical world.”

MARCH 2015

Brown watches customers closely while they engage with the products in-store, and then applies that knowledge to pick out new products at toy and gift fairs around the world.

“We also watch other industries such as fashion or architecture and the news both the more serious New York Times-type of news and the more frivolous US Weekly-type of news. Both can tell a lot about a culture and what people are looking for,” says Scott, adding: “We also do a lot research into the scientific advances in brain health and work with experts such as neurologists and occupational therapists to help us create and find products that are truly brain healthy.”

Brain healthy products never seem to go out of style, notes Adrienne. “Any type of toy or game that helps to build children’s

Beau votes for Battat There is no one more critical than a journalist and certainly no one more critical of toys than a sixyear-old toy reviewer. But when they give you their seal of approval, you’re on to a winner.

Luckily for Halilit, six-year-old Beau – an intrepid young journalist who toured the halls of the recent London Toy Fair - voted its Battat Take-Apart Airplane as his favourite toy.

Judith Stark, Halilit’s MD, says: “We’re delighted with this accolade! Beau has reviewed lots of toys that he saw at Toy Fair and we consider his praise for this low-tech toy to be a true reflection of what children of this age really enjoy playing with. Beau has over 3,600 Facebook likes and 12,800 Twitter followers, so we know that lots of children and parents are interested in what he has to say.”

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We are seeing an interesting counter trend emerge consisting of consumers pushing back against the digital uprising

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cognitive, social, emotional and fine and gross motor skills will always be hot. The toy industry is constantly creating a diverse range of playthings that are not only exciting and innovative – they are also truly beneficial to children of all ages.”

At the recent 112th North American International Toy Fair, TIA trend experts unveiled the hottest toy trends of the year during a packed seminar attended by hundreds of journalists and buyers.

Stay tuned for next month’s column, which will delve into the hottest toy trends of 2015 and include product examples from the New York City show.

For more information about TIA vi sit 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 Special Schylling promotions for limited time

Kiddimoto add to team

To celebrate Tobar’s new distribution partnership with Schylling there’s some special promotions for a limited time to help drive sales. The range of retro, tin, classic, music and collectable toys have just arrived in the warehouse.

Bright, colourful and designed to be robust yet appeal to the retro design fans the Schylling toys are fantastic quality. There are new lines in tin toys, sock monkeys and musical lines.

To take advantage Tobar advise you to speak to your account manager for the list of special prices today.

You can call the sales team on 0844 573 4299 or email sales@tobar.co.uk.

Kiddimoto have bolstered their team to the power of two. Nikki Toole, who started with the company in 2014, is now Sales Executive while Ali Anstee has joined the Kiddimoto team to implement a fully comprehensive marketing plan for 2015.

Ali has a wealth of experience in the toy and preschool arena having previously worked at RC2 (before they became Tomy), on the Bob the Builder and Thomas the Tank Engine wooden and die-cast toy ranges.

Remembering Cyril Steene Cyril Steene passed away on 21 January 2015 at Stoke Mandeville Hospital following a short illness.

Cyril’s career in the toy industry began back in the early 1950s when he joined Airfix as a pattern maker. With experience in making plastic kits, Cyril joined the ‘Frog’ division of Lines Bros. where he would design their Jaguar E-type among many others. After Cyril left Lines Bros, he met his wife of 40 years Barbara and in 1966, through contacts in the USA, commenced distribution in the UK for the Ideal Toy Company. Over the following 16 years, Ideal became known for a vast array of toys that became worldwide household names, KerPlunk (1967) Buckaroo (1970), Crossfire (1974) Total Control Racing – TCR (late 1970s), Evil Knievel (1972-77) and who could forget Rubik’s Cube (1974), which still does big business globally today.

It was at Ideal that many life long friendships were struck. John Walker, Vic Bolton, Tony Lawrie, Hayden Cousins and Gordon Roach were just a few.

Ideal went from strength-to-strength throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, and in 1982 it was taken over by CBS Toys. In a period where many of the new innovations were computer-based, Ideal remained at the forefront of the board game and doll categories.

Cyril left Ideal in 1987, and with ex-Ideal colleagues Tony Lawrie and Gordon Roche began their own venture – Welcome Toys. They marketed such products as Sylvanian Families and who could forget Noel Edmunds and Mr Blobby! In 1990, Cyril began a partnership with Ken Young and Horsman Toys, operating the franchise for Europe, which he continued until his retirement in 1996. He lived in Aston Rowant in the Chilterns, and it was very fitting that it was here that he was laid to rest at his funeral on 20 February 2015 attended by his many friends and family.

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Jakks go Smurf crazy Jakks Pacific aren’t feeling blue with the recent news that they have been signed as Master Toy Partner for Smurfs.

The agreement with LAFIG and Sony Pictures Consumer Products means Jakks will produce toys and related products based on the Smurfs franchise.

This includes the classic Smurfs brand and the upcoming Smurfs feature film premiering in August 2016.

The worldwide master toy agreement includes rights to produce figures, playsets, plush and more.

The new Smurfs toys from JAKKS Pacific are expected to be available at retail this autumn.

RIP Dave Harrison TnP MD and Founder Malcolm Naish remembers Dave Harrison “I am very sorry to report the passing of Dave Harrison. When I first became involved with the toy industry, there must have been 500 plus wholesalers in the UK. One of the very best was Cada Toys, owned by Dave Harrison who along with his sales director Gary Squires built up a most successful business trading around the Reading area and surrounding counties. Dave ran Cada until the late 80s, when following the bank calling in his overdraft facility, he decided to close Cada down. Dave soon continued in the toy trade and until 2009 owned three toy shops in Wokingham, Burnham and Sandhurst. He was also a prominent member of Youngsters toy buying group and a director for many years.

We had many laughs together over the years and his local shows including the Dolphin Hotel in Slough were riotous affairs – just as well there were no breathalysers in those days!

A good number of his family and friends attended his funeral at Caversham Crematorium and the celebration of his life at the Shurlock Pub just round the corner from his home. Typical Dave, he had arranged a raffle of some of his old Matchbox stock that his son organised with the proceeds going to the hospice.

Those lucky enough to win a prize found that they had acquired some excellent early die cast that included the original Thunderbirds die-cast and figurines.

Dave loved an occasional flutter on the horses, so it was quite in keeping with the day that he had printed out slips giving four tips straight from the horse’s mouth for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Grand National and two other meetings. Dave was a real grafter, he worked hard and was able to enjoy the benefits from all of his hard work – we’ll all miss you.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

EXHIBITION

NEWS

COFFEE BREAK With some stellar preschool ranges and favoured licences, Golden Bear know a thing or two about keeping young children happy. General Manager Barry Hughes has a quick Coffee Break with TnP

BTHA closer to date clash solution The BTHA has announced that it is close to a solution for next year’s date clash between the London and Nuremberg Toy Fairs.

To avoid the crossover, the BTHA hopes to open Toy Fair 2016 on Sunday 24 January and close on Tuesday 26 January.

Nothing is confirmed yet, but the industry organisation is working hard to finalise this with Olympia as soon as possible.

In a statement released in late February, the BTHA’s Roland Earl said: “Extra opening hours are planned on the first two days and build time is being arranged to allow for a comfortable schedule for contractors to create a great event. Once we have contracted dates with the venue we will, of course, look at the logistics we can help with to ease problems for exhibitors, such as moving prototypes from London to Nuremberg.

“More news will be given when the contract is finalised.

Thank you all for your patience.”

Strong UK presence In a post-show report, the organisers of Nuremberg Toy Fair have revealed that it continues to cement itself as a key event for the international toy industry, with visitors from 126 different countries attending the 2015 show, up from 122 last year.

The 40,420 international attendees represented 58% of the total visitor numbers, 1,871 of which were from Great Britain. Italy had the biggest international visiting presence with 4,131 making the trip.

The report also shows that Nuremberg Toy Fair continues to draw an increasing amount of exhibitors from outside of Germany. This year, 100 new international toy companies took stands on the 170,000sqm grounds, bringing the total to 2,051. Great British exhibitors counted for 174 of these, the second highest behind China with 290.

An overwhelming majority of exhibitors were satisfied with their participation and 90% said they plan to return for Nuremberg Toy Fair 2015.

The findings were collected through a survey of visitors and exhibitors conducted on all days of the fair by independent market researchers Gelszus MesseMarktforschung GmbH.

MARCH 2015

Barry, how is the pre-school market looking at the moment?

It has certainly been buoyant for us over the last couple of years. Long may it continue. 600k-700k new consumers every year in the UK helps!

What are Golden Bear’s hero ranges?

In the Night Garden and Something Special were our two biggest brands in 2014 and we are adding new CBeebies favourites Twirlywoos and Hey Duggee to our roster in 2015.

You’ve got some great licences, talk us through some of them?

Hey Duggee In The Night Garden is an evergreen favourite that plush has become firmly part of the nation’s bedtime routine for pre-schoolers. Star of Something Special, Mr Tumble, has a massive pre-school following with crowds in the tens of thousands turning up to watch him in arenas and at festivals. Hey Duggee, from early signs, seems to have grabbed the love and attention of the parents as well as the kids which is always a great indication of its likely success and Twirlywoos is the new hit show from the greatest pre-school TV programme maker the world has ever known - Anne Wood.

What ranges are you particularly excited about?

Twirlywoo’s We have some fantastic new product to further Big Red Boat strengthen the In The Night Garden brand with the highlight being an immersive interactive activity table. It is always exciting bringing new ranges to the market and we have already seen pent-up demand for Hey Duggee and Twirlywoos merchandise, so I can’t wait to see parents and kids reactions when they finally get their hands on the likes of the Twirlywoo Big Red Boat and the Woof Woof Duggee soft toy.

What initiatives do Golden Bear have to help retailers sell more?

Most importantly and impressively we plan to spend more money on TV advertising than in any previous year. TV is still the best way in getting in front of as many eyeballs as possible with your product and this year all our major brands will be getting significant TV support including Something Special for the first time. We will also plan to leverage social media more to further drive sales at retail.

In The Night Garden Sum up Golden Bear in three words?

Activity Leading pre-school specialist (good use of a hyphen!)

Table

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Follow these instructions to use the interactive content

TV

I WANT MY TnP TV Toy Trade gives TnP TV the thumbs up!

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oys n Playthings launched its new broadcast platform TnP TV last month. The trade is enjoying every instalment of TnP TV aired so far and we have so much more to give.

In the next episode of our new weekly TV show, we chat to TnP TV regular Dr Amanda Gummer of top parenting website FundamentallyChildren. com.

On the show, Amanda gives parents a steer on what toys help kids establish good learning patterns and motor disciplines. She also gives us an insight into the importance of creative play and why it can help shape the problemsolving minds of the future.

You’ll also be enjoying some top exclusives from the likes of MV Sports and Mattel, as well a bit of fight between TnP TV’s presenter and Editor-in-Chief of TnP Mirella Anstey and Mayur Pattni of Flair – not to be missed.

Schleich, Mookie and Director General of the BTHA Roland Earl all pop by for a chat (or a game in the case of Gemma and Matt of Mookie) and give the trade and consumers alike the lowdown on their great products and initiatives.

Mirella says: “The response from the toy industry and consumers has been overwhelming. The number of eyeballs on our clips are numerous and growing with each episode – and not just from the trade.

“We got off on the right foot with our first episode featuring Mr Tumble, a real favourite in my house, and we haven’t stopped since.

“And coupled with this has been the tremendous support the trade has shown us and the wonderful compliments we have received. Roll on TnP TV is all we can say.”

TnP TV airs every week and is delivered 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 289 930 or at ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

ne u J 23rd 15 20

GOLF £95 FOR THE DAY

CLASSIC 2008 - 2015

£95

A E R Y S 7 Goring & Streatley THE PACKAGE INCLUDES • Coffee and bacon rolls on arrival • 9 hole morning Texas Scramble from 9.30 • Lunch (ham, egg and chips) • 18 hole individual Stableford and team four ball, longest drive and nearest the pin • 3 Course Presentation Dinner Email: malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

FOR THE DAY

MOVIE

NEWS

LEGO crashes the Oscars Big Hero 6 scoops Oscar Big Hero 6 snapped up an Oscar at the 87th Academy Awards in February. Released in the USA in early November, Disney’s latest hit was named Best Animated Feature despite tough competition from the likes of DreamWorks Animation’s award-winning How to Train Your Dragon 2, stop motion animation The Boxtrolls, Song of the Sea, and The Tale of Princess Kaguya.

This critical acclaim was mirrored by commercial success, particularly at the UK box office where it launched 30 January. During the February half-term, the action packed animation filled cinemas nationwide taking £16.2 million. With global box office earnings now totalling $546 million, Big Hero 6 has become the third highest-grossing Disney Animation yet, behind only Lion King and Frozen. Big Hero 6 is inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name, featuring stand out comic-book style action and starring the adorable inflatable robot Baymax.

Noticeably absent from this year’s list of Oscar hopefuls was The LEGO Movie, but that didn’t mean the evening was completely devoid of the movie’s unique brand of ‘awesomeness.’ Comedy music group Lonely Island was joined on stage by a host of guests for a special performance of The LEGO Movie song, Everything is Awesome.

The LEGO action moved from the stage into the crowd as some lucky stars received Oscar statues made

from the iconic bricks, designed by artist Nathan Sawaya. Recipients included Steve Carrell, Emma Stone, Bradley Cooper, Clint Eastwood, Meryl Streep and an overjoyed Oprah Winfrey.

The LEGO Oscar statues and images of their lucky ‘winners’ from the ceremony became an online sensation in the following days, doing the rounds on social media and national news outlets.

SNYDER WHETS DC MOVIE FANS’ APPETITE Director Zack Snyder continues to tease fans with new images from his forthcoming superhero flick Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice. Previously using Twitter to reveal Ben Affleck’s new look Batman, Snyder took to the social media site once more last month to unveil Aquaman, played by Jason Momoa. He tweeted the picture with the caption: “There is only one true King. #unitetheseven”. In this new role, Momoa will reign as king of the seven seas in four forthcoming DC Comics Shared Universe films, debuting in Batman V Superman.

Spidey swings back to Marvel’s movies An announcement in February from Disney’s Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures has confirmed what many Spider-Man fans have been asking for: Spidey’s next outing will see him alongside his comic book companions in a Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) adventure.

The announcement confirms rumours that the web slinger will appear in a future MCU movie, but which movie that will be is not yet clear. Early speculation points to the next Captain America film, due out next year.

Sony Pictures owns the Spider-Man film rights, after a then-struggling Marvel sold them off in 1999, and this new agreement will not change that.

Sony will be keen to cling on to those rights for as long as possible as Spider-Man movies are the

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most profitable in its history, earning it more than £2.6 billion to date. After Spider-Man makes his MCU debut, Sony will then release the next instalment of its own lucrative franchise.

“Spider-Man is one of Marvel’s great characters, beloved around the world,” said Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company “We’re thrilled to work with Sony Pictures to bring the iconic web-slinger into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which opens up fantastic new opportunities for storytelling and franchise building.”

Michael Lynton, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment added: “We always want to collaborate with the best and most successful filmmakers to grow our franchises and develop our characters.

Marvel, Kevin Feige and Amy, who helped orchestrate this deal, are the perfect team to help produce the next chapter of SpiderMan. This is the right decision for the franchise, for our business, for Marvel, and for the fans.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

MEDIA

OPINION

Keeping it local I

have a good number of friends and colleagues who are currently involved in local TV channels in a variety of decision-making positions. These individuals each share a view on the potential and value of their respective local channel. They also have views on the ability of the Digital Terrestrial TV (DTTV) EPG slot on Freeview Channel 8 to reach out to an audience.

This theory is supported by the availability of children’s shows that do not succeed in obtaining a DTTV license with a broadcaster to go to air.

In 1982 TV-am found a way forward to build an adult audience by introducing the station to children in the shape of a seven-minute Popeye cartoon; the adults viewed the content that followed and the rest is history.

In today’s multi-channel world, with over 30 dedicated children’s channels, DTTV still has the power and ability to cut through with the right shows at the right time of day.

Sony TV have proved this recently by moving two of their children’s channels onto DTTV distribution and seeing immediate audience growth.

In May 2012, Ofcom issued 21 local TV licenses and a further 30 licenses in March 2013. Estuary TV (serving Grimsby) was the first to air and most recently Big Centre TV (Birmingham) launched in February this year. However in September of last year Ofcom announced that it would be “very unlikely that all local TV stations will succeed”.

This is a very unusual position for both Ofcom, and the broadcasters that Ofcom license and regulate. So where is Local TV just over two years on from Grimsby’s launch ?

Well, it is just three years since Jeremy Hunt, Government Minister for The Department of Media Culture and Sport (DCMS) launched his “Action Plan for local TV”.

Mr Hunt had become the champion for local TV, using USA local TV as the model.

Unfortunately, Jeremy Hunt was soon to be launched

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into the Department of Health - after his interrogation by The Leveson Enquiry. PM Dave was keen to put some distance between the former Charterhouse School Boy and The DCMS having any collusion with Rupert Murdoch and his media operations.

There was also some distance between the lifestyle’s of Birmingham folk in the UK when compared to those in Alabama.

Fast forward to January 2015 and the following announcement from The Westminster Media Forum, introducing; The Conference on the Future for Local Media: sustainability, plurality and policy priorities. This event takes place next month on 21 April.

The Westminster Media Forum (WMF) is a very powerful and important organization whose remit is “to help shape the policy agenda”. Following the Ofcom Local License reality check last September, it is no coincidence that the WMF have scheduled this conference.

It is worth noting that the WMF has no policy agenda of its own, other than to “raise the quality of debate on public policy developments creating informed discussion”.

From a previous experience with WMF and Ofcom; and after three years of debate and discussion surrounding child obesity, for which at that time television stood accused of. We arrived with the broadcast industry, food confectionery and drink manufacturers working to new regulatory codes for television and new production and labeling standards for high fat salt and sugar foods.

At the time each party had a different agenda, but the eventual outcome was better for one and all.

Given where local TV is at this point in time and the opinion published by Ofcom then this debate should be seen as a positive positioning for the future of local TV, their ownership, commercial models and the quality of local TV services that meet local needs.

Meanwhile, I know that my colleagues mentioned at the top of this piece will engage in the debate.

The programme makers amongst them have long shared a belief in syndicating children’s programmes at a time weekdays and weekends on local DDTV Channel 8.

We will have to wait and see.

In 1982 TV-am found a way forward to build an adult audience by introducing the station to children in the shape of a sevenminute Popeye cartoon

”

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

MARCH 2015

What’s next for local TV? asks Clive Crouch

MEDIA

NEWS

Line and shuffle ‘em up!

YouTube launches new kid-safe app The Walt Disney Company EMEA has revealed a multi-channel marketing campaign to support the Avengers franchise ahead of The Avengers: Age of Ultron movie release.

The heavyweight Avengers Hero Up! campaign will comprise of specially created TV content, advertising across TV, digital and cinema, retail promotions, and digital support via the MarvelKids websites which launched in February 2015. The campaign, which launches in March, will drive kids to the new MarvelKids website, which offer a large number of games, content, character bios and activities grouped around the Avengers and Spider-Man. The Marvel Avengers Hero Attax Cards from Topps will also launch at retail and digitally online. The new collection will consist of unique cards featuring characters from Disney XD’s Marvel TV shows and movie cards from Avengers: Age of Ultron, which releases in the UK 24 April, 2015.

The Pokémon Company International and Nintendo have given Pokémon fans a reason to be happy with the launch of a new free-to-play video game. Pokémon Shuffle, a new game for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, launched last month and tasks players with matching three or more Pokémon in a line to attack and progress through a variety of different stages.

Downloadable at no cost from Nintendo eShop, fans can play through every aspect and feature of the game for free. Players start the game with five hearts, and one is used up for each stage played. When players run out of hearts, they’ll need to wait for them to replenish to continue playing.

Pokémon Shuffle also incorporates fun connectivity features using the wireless connectivity feature StreetPass. Players can swap play records with others and get bonus Jewels too. Free special stages to download will be added regularly throughout the year.

Chuggington app arrives on mobile platforms Chuggington - We are the Chuggineers, the latest app from Ludorum and StoryToys is now available on iOS. Based on the popular TV show, it follows the best-selling Chug Patrol: Ready To Rescue app and is available now on the App Store.

Chuggington - We Are the Chuggineers is the official storybook app of the Chuggineers: Ready To Build extended episode. It includes seven clips from the TV show starring the newest Chuggers: Zack, Tyne, Fletch, Cormac and Payce. It also comprises seventeen pages of story, animation and illustrations and four exciting interactive 3D games.

The app is designed to reinforce the positive values promoted by the television series, such as problem solving skills, while the story emphasises the values of respect and loyalty, teamwork and patience.

“At StoryToys we’re committed to making quality, engaging apps that both entertain and promote learning through play,” said Barry O’Neill, CEO of StoryToys. “The Chuggington brand is a great fit for StoryToys and we’re delighted to be working with them again.”

14

WAYBULOO HEADS EAST Zodiak Kids has announced that CBeebies favourite Waybuloo is set to launch in China this month. Chinese network CCTV has taken all 150 x 19’ episodes of the series for its children’s channel CCTV-14, which will be dubbed into Mandarin.

Licensing partner Guangzhou Huaen Century Culture Communication Company Ltd will launch a range of Waybuloo products including plush, toys and DVDs with more products planned to follow.

Jean-Philippe Randisi, CEO, Zodiak Kids said: “We are delighted that Waybuloo will be launching in China across television, DVD and consumer products. CCTV will be an ideal partner to bring this landmark series to new audiences.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk

MEDIA

Watch this space W

elcome to the Global Media Report covering January 2015. As mentioned in previous reports, we saw many changes in the viewing landscape for 2014, and I dare say we will see similar ups and downs for 2015.

This report deals with the viewing data for All Boys, Girls and Housewives with Children Pre-school.

As the chart for the Boys shows, The Cartoon Network is market leader followed by Boomerang and Nickelodeon Junior, although I suspect for Nick Junior a high percentage of it audience is at the younger end of this age profile. Most of the stations are in a negative positioned compared to January 2014. In fact, total viewing for this target market is down overall by 2.2%.

Looking at the viewing levels for the Girls, Nickelodeon is market leader with Pop in second place and Tinypop in the third spot, you must remember that Tinypop is now on the Freeview platform and the benefits are clear to see. As the chart shows, most of the stations are delivering less than in the same period for 2014, although the total viewing level for this group is up by 3.2%.

In the viewing levels for Housewives with Children Pre-school there no major changes, Nickelodeon Junior continues to be a clear market leader, we see that Tiny Pop has doubled in size, all be it from a low base, this is due to Tiny Pop going onto the Freeview platform. Pop is up for the same reason. Cartoonito is also doing very well for reasons that are unclear at the moment, however we should mention that the total viewing levels for this category shows an increase of 19%, which is good news.

The Top Ten spenders are showing a decrease in reported expenditure terms of 5% while the total market is up by 13.4%, interesting to note there are fewer products advertising in January 2015 than 2014, we therefore conclude companies outside the top ten are spending more in January 2015 than in the corresponding period in 2014.

The TV revenue for January is showing an increase of 21% compared to January 2014. Could it be the year is off to flying start?

In the next issue we will look at Girls and Boys 4-9 years and All Housewives with Children.

CHARTS

8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Housewives & Kids TVR’s January 14 vs January 15

Jan-14

Jan-15

Jan-14

Jan-15

5000 4500 4000 0 3500 0 3000 0 2500 0 2000 0 1500 0 1000 0 500 0 0

Boys 4-9 TVR’s January 14 vs January 15 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Girls 4-9 TVR’s January 14 vs January 15

Jan-14

Jan-15

Jan 2013 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Jan 2014 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Mattel UK Ltd LEGO UK Ltd VTech Electronics Ltd Character Options Ltd Vivid Imaginations Ltd Bandai UK Ltd Hasbro (UK) Ltd Leapfrog Toys (UK) Ltd Peterkin Uk Ltd Total:

£394,831 £331,757 £333,602 £281,678 £248,068 £198,790 £163,092 £90,032 £53,740 £43,904 £2,139,494

Character Options Ltd LEGO UK Ltd Hasbro (UK) Ltd Vivid Imaginations Ltd Mattel UK Ltd Leapfrog Toys (UK) Ltd Brainstorm IMC Toys UK Ltd MGA Ent Jakks Pacific/Kidz Biz Ltd Total:

£578,518 £541,818 £192,972 £179,760 £170,284 £122,850 £84,552 £58,944 £41,927 £36,146 £2,007,771

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 TEMBE EMB EM BE ER 2013 2013 20 13

151

RETAIL

OPINION

On making a splash Too many toy shops look more or less the same, but how do you go about creating difference?

John Ryan puts some ideas forward

S

ame old same old. It’s a hackneyed phrase, but it’s hackneyed because there is more than a grain of truth about it and in few places is this more evident than on our high streets. When it comes to shopping, the UK has long been accused of being “Clone Britain” owing to the propensity of Big Retail PLC to make everything the same, everywhere. In part this is a response to economies of scale and it also has to do with the notion that brand loyalty has a bit to do with familiarity. Whatever the case, it does mean boring and whether it’s Cardiff, Croydon or Kilmarnock (OK, it doesn’t begin with ‘C’, but some alliterative slack please), there is a sense that things could be better.

This is where the independent retailer actually has a chance to be a high street force for good and to offer an alternative to the run of the mill. The thing is, how to go about it? Toy shops tend to be simple things, but that simplicity is deceptive. Starting therefore with the exterior, what matters?

The answer is almost everything. The name could be as simple as ‘The Toy Shop’, but it has to be something that local people can recognise and build a degree of loyalty towards. Then there’s the fascia itself. Any colour works, but it has to be done professionally and be, to an extent, sympathetic with the surroundings. The other point is, don’t be tempted to change the colour after a couple of years.

The way a store looks from the outside is every bit as important in gaining recognition as the name above the door. Choose a colour therefore and stick with it.

The one variable on a storefront is, of course, the windows. And it’s not enough to choose a few toys that have just arrived and then to stick them behind the glass. On Valentines Day, Hamleys ran a promotion. No, not hearts and chocolates, but Peppa Pig, who was on hand to open the store on the same day as the film Peppa Pig The Golden Boots was released in cinemas.

Bear in mind that there are thousands of toys and games that the Regent Street behemoth could choose from when it comes to getting shoppers through the doors. Every time it makes a decision about events or what goes in the window therefore, it has exercised editorial control.

This is the task in hand. It is not enough to put ‘stuff’ in the window. Your job is to create interest and this could mean anything from a single product, endlessly

repeated, á la Andy Warhol, to a themed presentation. The options are legion, but there has to be an obvious logic and entertainment value about what has been done, particularly as you are in the business of selling toys. And consider this. How many times have you seen toy shop windows that look both lacklustre and as if everything has been thrown at the problem of creating a display without any real understanding of what it is that is trying to be achieved?

Probably a fair few and it really doesn’t have to be this way.

Visual merchandising curation, editing, call it what you will, is nearly as important as buying the right stock in the first place. This is your shout and it doesn’t matter how good what lies within might be, if you fail at this first hurdle, you fail.

Assuming, however, that you do manage to convert passers-by into potential shoppers of your store, what will they find when the walk through the door? In an ideal world, the first thing that they’d probably encounter would be the promise of the window made flesh – or put another way, it’s no good showing off if you don’t deliver from the moment the shopper crosses the threshold. Practically however this means more than just stacking the toys up and saying ‘come buy’. As with windows, there is rather more to in-store visual merchandising than a pile of merchandise. Creating an appropriate temporary environment that walks the window walk is essential if you’re going to carry the shopper that extra yard to the cash desk.

Once again, this can mean almost anything, but what it does involve is significant editing to make an essential product splash. It also probably means considering the backdrop that you provide to do this. Most toy manufacturers are ready, willing and able to provide point of sale material that will do the job, but the problem with this may be that you look like anywhere else.

For the most part, the POS from the big brands will suffice. But as a retailer looking to separate yourself from the herd, you need to choose something that will make a difference and it may be a case of doing it yourself. This is what makes the difference and sorts a good toys hop from a workaday emporium.

So what does all of this add up to? Be selective. Make your decision and run with it and don’t try to be all things to all shoppers – this will never work. Just as importantly, plough your own furrow. A lot or retailers spend a lot of time looking at what the competition’s doing and then trying to imitate. This is fine, but being unafraid of others is the mark of the best.

Easy really… or maybe not, but all of this needs to be thought about, all of the time.

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.

16

toysnplaythings.co.uk

COVER FEATURE MOOKIE

TV for TP Toys The TP Toys brand is in for a big year. With 50 years experience under their belt making top notch outdoor toys, they are about to be TV advertised for the first time in their history. TnP find out more from Mookie

T

P Toys have been specialising in trampolines, climbing frames and swing sets for the past 50 years, and now in 2015 they are set to make their debut on TV. The TVC for Mookie’s outdoor range will focus on the TP Toys brand as a whole, sharing their core brand values of heritage, quality and active fun.

What can retailers expect to see?

The advert, which is currently being filmed in the sunny conditions of Australia, is set to launch on TV during the Easter Holidays and will then be shown throughout the summer. The campaign will consist of over 800 TVRs. In addition to this TP Toys will also be supported by radio advertising and a full PR campaign as part of a push

by Mookie to build TP Toys brand awareness and recognition. The TV advert will aim to produce an emotive response from the consumer using beautiful product shots and lifestyle images while the radio advertising and PR will be more informative, communicating the benefits and quality of TP products, as Mookie aim to offer a well-rounded campaign.

Speaking about the campaign, Gemma Lewington, Marketing Manager at Mookie said, “We are very excited for TP to be on TV, it’s a brand that has established itself over the past 50 years with very little marketing support by

offering great quality innovative toys and we are now keen to develop this exciting brand further.

This media campaign is in conjunction with a greater in store presence for the brand, with more products set to be on display.”

Gemma continued: “It’s key for us to get families seeing and feeling the quality of TP products.

This quality is a tricky thing to convey solely through images and information so we are always keen to get TP in store.”

What is special about TP Toys?

TP Toys have been designing and producing high quality outdoor toys for generations, with a dedicated design team here in the UK. Mookie

“

We are very excited for TP to be on TV, it’s a brand that has established itself over the last 50 years

Gemma Lewington, Marketing Manager

”

Fact file: • 2015 will see TP Toys range debut on TV • Advert due to launch during Easter holidays • Over 800 TVRs will be broadcast • Supported by radio campaign and PR push

acquired the TP Toys brand three years ago, and has always been keen to draw the public’s attention to the brands toys.

The core TP Toys wood range is manufactured using Latvian Pine which is pressure treated with an environmentally friendly preservative which penetrates all the way through the wood. This ensures TP products stand the test of time.

Their revolutionary trampolines include two patent protected technologies; SurroundSafe and the Igloo Door.

SurroundSafe is an interlocking skirt system which ensures that the springs can’t be accessed from the outside or the inside of the trampoline. The Igloo Door is a super safe entry/ exit system that requires no zips and incorporates a bounce back technology that always keeps jumpers securely on the trampoline. Both systems help to ensure children’s safety, making TP trampolines one of the safest on the market.

With so much activity in 2015, it is set to be a big year for TP Toys.

To find out more about the fantastic TP Toys range, contact Mookie Toys: Tel: 01525722722 Web: www.mookie-toys.co.uk Web: www.tptoys.com

17

WHAT’S B Brand spanking ing new launches ffrom top toy companies to help you sell more! y e!

A swimmingly immingly good range INNOVATION FIRST 01925453144 www.hexbug.com Innovation First are unveiling a new HEXBUG range for 2015. New lines include additions to the much-loved HEXBUG Aquabot range. The Aquabot Jelly Fish is available in five bright colours and propels its bell-shaped body deep down into the bottom of the tank and floats back up, using its surface sensor to detect when it’s at the top of the tank. Also in the range are the Aquabot Seahorse and the Aquabot Remote Control Angelfish. The HEXBUG Aquabot Seahorse, Jellyfish and Remote Control Angelfish can be purchased individually or with a tank.

Crazy games es on the go DKL 01604678780 www.dkl.co.uk Brand new from Miniland Educational is the On the Go collection of travel avel games. The fun collection includes six magnetic games for children aged 3-7 years old. The sleek, compact pact design of the games makes them practical for modern families to carry on the go, and the sturdy magnetic pieces prevent any parts from getting tting lost in transit.

There are six different games available: Crazy zy Sudoku, Crazy Robots, Crazy City, Crazy Faces, ces, Crazy Zoo and Crazy Tangram. Measuring 45 5 x 22cm each, the On the Go travel games are re ideal not only for long journeys but for retail il stores too.

The games can be purchased separately or in an attractive CDU which holds 18 units and nd takes up relatively little retail space.

Your very best farmyard friends TOMY 02087227300 www.tomy.com Sort & Pop Farmyard Friends from TOMY picked up the Best Pre-School Toy Award at London Toy Fair Best New Toy Awards 2015. And for good reason!

New to the TOMY Infant and Toddler Toy range for spring/summer 2015, the Sort & Pop Farmyard Friends offering characterful shape sorting fun complete with movement and sound. The cheerful farm truck drives forwards and the animals pop out as they reach their destination. Little ones can learn shapes and numbers as well as animal sounds as they play and sort. Cute farm animal characters, vehicle play, sorting, and popping means this toy is packed with surprises to keep little ones engaged. The Toy Fair Best New Toy Awards are voted for by a panel of independent toy retailers and provide the earliest retailer prediction of what will be big in the year ahead.

“We are delighted that one of our Infant and Toddler Range has received this accolade,” says Matthew Woolf, Head of Customer Marketing at TOMY.

1

toysnplaythings.co.uk

NEW Marbel-ous mania!

TOY ESSENTIALS 01285 762039 www.toyessentials.com essentials.com

Get crafty!

MATTEL M 0 01628 500 000 www.mattel.com w

Toy Essentials als has added yet anotherr dimension to its everexpanding toy portfolio. io.

Techno Gears Marble ble Mania offers rs multi piece,, colourful constructions ons sets that enable budding ding engineers from aged six plus to create their own spectacular marble run masterpieces. There are 12 sets in the UK range, each of which offer varying build levels to challenge even the most adventurous minds. The collection selected for the UK market includes the Techno Gears Marble Mania Genius 2 which comprises over 400 brightly coloured pieces. Kids can travel to a distant land with Techno Gears Marble Mania Voyager. This marble set features dual hand cranks that turn two bucket and chain pulley systems on either side of the build, lifting the marbles to the top of the build where they set off on an extraordinary adventure. More than 300 pieces will provide children with hours of fun in construction building.

M Mattel’s AmiGami is hitting retail with its llaunch this spring. AmiGami is a new crafting toy tthat captures the current crafting trend, and allows children to express ttheir individuality by creating a unique creation that they can share with ttheir friends and even the world.

Everything needed to create AmiGami is included in the pack, a cute AmiGami animal figure ready to decorate with special AmiGami paper A parts. Each paper part is easily attached with a jewel pin and comes with p llots of colourful tails and wings along with reusable stickers allowing children to create their own unique characters. c First up is the Mini AmiGami Figure. This cute AmiGami figure can be a pencil topper, a window hanger or a ring to wear. The set comes with llots of stickers and paper to create this fun accessory.

The full size AmiGami figure, comes with even more stickers and parts to customise and create the ultimate AmiGami animal. Also look out for the AmiGami Tool Set. This set includes lots of tools for even more creative fun including a crimper and different shaped punches plus an AmiGami figure, stickers and paper parts. The AmiGami House Playset is the perfect place to create a special home for your AmiGami figure to live. The set comes complete with a house, an AmiGami figures plus stickers and paper parts to decorate your AmiGami figure and the house.

Make those zombies furious HASBRO 02085691234 www.hasbro.co.uk Hasbro’s Zombie Strike Flipfury is here.

When you’re the only thing that stands between humanity and a horde of zombies, you can’t afford to waste time reloading.

With twin rotating drums that hold six Zombie Strike darts each, the Nerf Zombie Strike Flipfury blaster lets you fire 12 darts before reloading.

After you unleash six darts from the top drum, pull the secondary trigger to flip drums and keep blasting. Stop the undead in their tracks and make sure no zombie gets past you!

MARCH 2015

19

RETAIL

OPINION

Toy talk We catch up with retailers to find out which licences they think are going to sell well this year.

We also ask about consumer confidence...

JAMES MCCOMAS,

RICHARD HARDING,

Comaco Toys Direct, Drumnadrochit, Scotland

Puff’s Toyshop, Wymondham, Norfolk

Comaco Toys Direct is an online toy shop based in Drumnadrochit, by the shores of beautiful Loch Ness, Scotland. Owner James McComas, a former primary school teacher, retained firefighter and Munro bagger (a Scottish hill climber!), started the company in 2007 and set up the company website in 2009.

2015 is a big year for licences - Big Hero 6, Star Wars, all things Dinosaurs to name a few. What is currently garnering more interest and what sort of product is selling better?

We’re getting quite a lot of Transformers things in and also, although we haven’t gone directly for the Jurassic Park licensed products from Hasbro so far, we have got a lot of dinosour-related items in which are going very well.

Consumer confidence was high in February according to reports, have you seen a change in your store to reflect this?

I have seen something on this, and we’re finding it is fairly healthy for the time of year. We had a particularly good Christmas and then it obviously quietened down. Christmas was quite a lot up on a year ago, which is very gratifying, and this year is looking reasonably healthy – it’s nothing to shout about but I would say it’s up on where we were last year.

Any surprising products/brands that are selling well at the moment?

There’s nothing terribly surprising, there’s not one thing that’s going like the clappers, it’s quite general at the moment. Everything seems to be going reasonably well and there’s nothing I’m concerned about. We do a lot of different things but figures seem to be one of the key items that we do well on.

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

Richard opened Puff’s two and a half years ago, and has since moved to a larger location in the centre of town.

We’re pleased to welcome Richard to our pages this month as he tells TnP that Toy Talk is one of his favourite reads each month.

2015 is a big year for licences - Big Hero 6, Star Wars, all things Dinosaurs to name a few. What is currently garnering more interest and what sort of product is selling better?

We absolutely take the big movies and TV shows into account, but it doesn’t directly inform what makes it onto our shelves.

Consumer confidence was high in February according to reports, have you seen a change in your store to reflect this?

Yes, I think we have. Footfall has not increased noticably, but those that do come in are definitely spending more. We’re doing better than this time last year, which is always a good sign.

Any surprising products/brands that are selling well at the moment and performing better than expectations?

The Puppet Company products we stock are selling really well, and we’ve just received our order of their new Sock Puppets, which are really characterful.

Depesche’s Top Model continues to sell well too, but our surprise winner of the year so far has been Ravensburger jigsaws - mainly for adults, interestingly.

PAUL CARPENTER Totally Toys, Gloucester Road, Bristol Totally Toys is part of Bristol’s foremost independent retail community on Gloucester Road.

So far, he thinks 2015 could be a winner.

2015 is a big year for licences - Big Hero 6, Star Wars, all things Dinosaurs to name a few. What is currently garnering more interest?

LEGO is by far the biggest seller for us, and LEGO Star Wars is easily the biggest chunk of that. I have every confidence in Star Wars being a major licence for Christmas 2015 when the film launches, particularly with the nostalgic parental support.

Consumer confidence was high in February according to reports, have you seen a change in your store to reflect this?

We had a really big January - I think we were 16% up on last year.

February wasn’t as strong, but we were still up 5%. So it’s hard to deny that our customers are spending more.

20

toysnplaythings.co.uk

HIGH STREET

HIGHS

We are family Gary Grant, MD and Founder of The Entertainer invited TnP Editor-in-Chief Mirella Anstey to spend the day with them and meet the guys who are on the front line – the store managers and assistants. To get to know them, their customers and why making a success of retail – particularly in a toy shop – means being a very special person indeed – so much so that The Sunday Times has recognised the company as being in the Top 100 companies to work for in Britain. The team in Chelmsford agree and are a testament to this.

S

pending the day in The Entertainer in Essex isn’t coming back.” But does the team agree? Fascinatingly, this especially unusual for me. For one, as Editorsentiment is one I consistently hear from the guys in the in-Chief of the top toy trade magazine, it’s part store. Jordan, who joined just before Christmas, credits of the job to know what’s happening on the the training and nurturing he has received with giving him shelves of toy shops up and down the country. Secondly, confidence and, when asked why he enjoys his job, his I am a mum to two voracious consumers - so I am pretty answer is so simple, it is almost startling: “Because I like the comfortable in the environment. customers”. Shadowing Jordan for a very short time and But talking to Gary Grant, MD and seeing his enthusiasm and his Founder of The Entertainer, over the demonstrations of products really past few years, and more so over was a testament to a great team the past few months since he joined member. He helped sell more Team TnP as one of our columnists, toys than he would have if he was I have been thinking about what is just stocking shelves or standing really important at grass roots level, behind the counter! and why consumers, like me, choose Likewise, when chatting to to shop in one store over another.

Dani, who is looking forward Gary is always at pains to explain to her fourth incredibly busy that shoppers have so many choices Christmas at The Entertainer, and that it is not a given that they she explained that she “loves will come to The Entertainer, or Saturdays at the shop. We are indeed any shop. That takes hard so busy but there is lots of fun work and much thought. But to keep and we always have great things The Entertainer’s Marketing Manager them coming back you really need a happening in–store. This week we Gemma Porter with Mirella Anstey special ingredient. You need to be a cut have Sonic coming in, and for Easter above the rest to make that happen, and it’s more than we will have our usual egg hunts. I’m a big kid at heart, and price! being in this environment makes me feel happy. I think our Following on from The Sunday Times including them customers like that”. She is right. It was a drizzly Thursday in their Top 100 companies to work for in Britain, it in downtown Chelmsford, yet the store was never empty surely means this bunch of 1,200 or so people are doing yet between 12 and 2pm, it could have been a Saturday. something really right. After all it was the staff not They say happiness is infectious… management that filled in the questionnaires.

Manager Dan also told me a number of times that he So, when Gary asked if I wanted to spend some time felt like “part of a family at the Entertainer, where all getting to know his team, I jumped at the chance. ideas can be shared and everyone is open to listen and So what’s the secret? I ask Chelmsford store manager discuss. I also treat my team in the same way. We are a Dan, my retail Yoda for the day, why he and his team are little family here”. making a real triumph on the high street. For him it is There are so many warm fuzzy feelings I will simple: “I run this store as though it is my own business. take away from my day at The Entertainer, but the Our management empowers us – we make the difference overwhelming response for me is one that, in truth, I here at a local level. The training and support we receive did not need to go behind the scenes to experience is second to none and my team and I really transmit – it is one I feel when shopping there regularly: “The this to our customers and so, I believe, they enjoy shoppers are special”.

MARCH 2015

NEXT MONTH! We talk to Gary about the flip side – what The Entertainer looks for in its employees and how they come together in 100 stores, all 1,200 or so staff, to create the magic which keeps children and their parents engaged and enjoying their shopping experiences on a regular basis.

21

RETAIL INTERVIEW THE DISNEY STORE

That’s magic!

Disney have had a fantastic 2014 – do we need to mention the “F” word? Mike Stagg, General Manager, Retail For The Walt Disney Company UK & Ireland, tells TnP about their “phenomenal” year along with revealing all about 2015 This year has been another blockbuster year for Disney, particularly with the explosion over Frozen. Tell me a little about the Frozen products you have had in store this past year?

Last year, 2014, was truly a phenomenal year for Disney, not only because of the success of Frozen but across our portfolio of brands we celebrated success at retail with Spider-Man, p , Star Wars Rebels,, Doc McStuffins and Disney Princess to name a few. We also saw the introduction of Star Wars merchandise into the Disney Store for the first time in April last year, with Star Wars Rebels products in particular attracting a new generation of fans who tuned in to the new animated series which premiered on Disney XD last October.

Frozen merchandise literally flew off shelves and our ranges expanded over the year to support the high demand at the Disney Store and across retail. Products across all categories have been available from toys to dressup, clothing, stationery, books and bedding.

22

What sort of numbers and quantities have they been selling in?

Frozen was the hottest property at the Disney Store in 2014 and it is still showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, our US business reported that more than three million Frozen Elsa and Anna role-play dresses have been sold at Disney Store and mass retailers in North America alone.

What have been the most popular types of products?

Anna and Elsa costumes have been hugely popular among girls who love to play as their favourite character and continue the storytelling. Anna and Elsa dolls have become a must have among Frozen fans, especially the singing dolls which play songs from the film. An Olaf soft toy has also been hugely popular, appealing to both boys and girls who love the humour his character brings to the film.

“

Our US bus business rep reported that mo more than thre three million Fro Frozen Elsa and Anna role role-play dre dresses have bee been sold at Dis Disney Store and mass reta retailers in Nor North Am America alo alone

”

With the announcement last year of a new Toy Story movie, what sort of impact did that have on sales on the property in-store?

Toy Story is a classic property which continues to appeal to boys and girls as parents who grew up with the first film introduce the story and its characters to their children.

Despite the fact it’s been almost 20 years since the first film was released, the Buzz Lightyear action figure continues to be a popular Christmas gift each year. Even before the announcement of Toy Story 4, we saw an increase in demand for merchandise following the television special Toy Story of Terror which aired on SKY. There’s no doubt 2017 will be a huge year for Toy Story with the release of the fourth film from Disney/Pixar.

The new Marvel movies are out later this year and the past few years have been truly marvel-lous!

What new goodies do you have in store?

We believe 2015 will be Marvel’s biggest year yet with the release of Avengers: Age of Ultron. This epic film will see the all-star cast of Avengers Super Heroes re-unite for the first time since 2012 in what was the third highest-grossing film

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RETAIL INTERVIEW SMF TOY TOY

of all time and number one movie of that year.

Ant-Man will also be introduced into the Marvel vel Cinematic Universe, adding to further excitement for all things Marvel at retail. Plus Disney XD will have a plethora of Marvel content ent including new Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H., Avengers engers Assemble and Ultimate SpiderMan episodes. Plus, we will have an all new Guardians of the Galaxy animated series launching. ng.

How much more interestt has there been in Star Wars in 2014 14 versus 2013?

I mentioned earlier that the new animated series Star Wars Rebels launched on Disney XD last year, this has introduced the franchise to a new generation of fans and continues to grow in popularity.

Since Lucasfilm announced Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 2013 and as we edge closer to the film’s release date of 15 December 2015, anticipation and interest in all things Star Wars continues to gain momentum.

What do you currently forecast as being the top for 2015?

We see no signs of Frozen slowing down, especially with the

Welcome to the toy town new short Frozen Fever opening in cinemas on 27 March in front of the live-action Cinderella film from Disney. On Cinderella, we see this boosting our overall Disney Princess business for 2015 and, of course, we’re expecting big things from Marvel and Star Wars.

And what should we look out for that perhaps isn’t on our radar quite yet?

We opened up a new corner of the Marvel Universe with Guardians of the Galaxy last year and, with the launch of the animated series on Disney year, there’s a XD this ye opportunity for real opp merchandise to take mercha centre stage. Also, Disney will be at the heart of the market again with tween m launch of a new Disney the launc Original Movie titled The Channel Origin about the children Descendants, a Disney most villainous of some of Dis characters, and with the launch of Disney Tsum Tsum, a craze taken Japan and the which has take and will launch in US by storm an product range next the UK with a p month. favourite Disney What is your fa Store toy?

6 range is The new Big Hero H very innovative, fantastic and v nostalgia plays to however my no Star Wars Lightsaber. the classic Sta

MARCH 2015

W With 28 stores across the UK and Ireland, family-run U SMF ToyTown is a good-sized S operation. Buyer and General Manager Brian Simpson gives us a steer on the past 12 months and the next too!

How is 2015 looking, are initial predictions pointing towards a decent year?

My big hope is that Big Hero 6 is a huge hit, and that it will create footfall and sales in the early part of the year. 2014 is going to be a difficult year to match, but there is a massive amount happening, with Big Hero 6, Frozen Fever, Cinderella, Avengers, Jurassic World, The Good Dinosaur and Star Wars, so it has a lot going for it.

What does the industry need this year to keep things ticking over?

There is plenty of good stuff happening in 2015 that will keep our footfall high and sales ringing through the tills, but we really need another craze that captures kids minds and is all they want. The blessing in disguise is that we already have a couple of new areas that sales are flying, such as Paw Patrol and Half Shell Heroes, and Big Hero 6 too.

What potential hits have you seen so far?

Out of the brand-new ranges that haven`t hit our shelves yet, I am very interested to see how Thunderbirds from Vivid and Weebledown Farm from Character Options sell.

And what about in-store theatre, do you actively encourage this?

We try to give all of our stores the opportunity to maximise this. With suppliers like LEGO, Hasbro and Flair this becomes easy, as they are always the first to come up with prizes for colouring competitions, treasure hunts or any other type of fun for kids. At the end of the day, it is our key point of difference from purchasing online, so we need to focus on this and keep people walking through our doors.

23

THE INDEPENDENT

OPINION

Releasing your inner child Cherish the magic of toys, says The Independent, you don’t know how long it will last…

A

ren’t kids growing up too fast already? I know it probably sounds like I am way behind the times, but I take an interest in the habits of children around me to see if I can determine what the likely age is of a child who thinks they have outgrown toys simply because it is uncool to play with action figures or dolls at a particular age.

It astounds me and also breaks my heart to see children as young as seven or eight years old looking at their parents in an odd way when they bring them into one of my stores.

And the worst thing is, it has nothing to do with their own desires, you can see how fascinated they are by the item that just

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happens to be packaged in such a way that it makes them really want to grab it off the shelf and start playing with it in the middle of the floor. I see loads of Dads looking at boys’ toys like Star Wars or Transformers figures in awe, and they really, really want to buy something for themselves, and in a toy store!

It makes me laugh but, if I am being honest, I feel the same way when I open up a new product sometimes. It just has that look and feel that makes me want it.

Kids are constantly on the edge with their friends, and you either fit in, or get chucked out of a particular group of cool kids. The unfortunate thing is that this affects my business, as it is visible when I think back over the years that the age of children who love coming into my stores is decreasing as a slow but definite rate.

I applaud the likes of LEGO who create ranges like Technic to capture the older age groups, but no matter what toy suppliers try to do, our target audience is getting closer and closer to six and seven year olds and younger.

Or is it?

I don’t mean to jump around on this, but the situation that arose to make me write this article was visiting a friend of mine to help move furniture (I am really a nice guy at heart) and when I walked past her 22 year old daughter’s room my eye couldn’t help but catch that there were no less than

16 Monster High dolls all displayed on her windowsill.

And she is 22 years old!

This simply amazes me and shows me that although toys are aimed at young kids, there is always a market for capturing sales across older age ranges, the only issue is that it would be madness to aim for this target audience as it is hard enough to get traction in sales for our main audience.

I suppose what I am really getting at is that no matter what age you are, toys can still play a valuable part (even if it does get very small when we grow up) of our lives, even if that simply means that we as parents get to relive our childhoods by looking at and hopefully buying toys that are re-released to coincide with a new generation, hoping that it impacts our kids lives as much as it did with ours when we were younger.

Our stores regularly try to take advantage of occasions such as Father’s Day, and will merchandise products like RC Helicopters, Games and Adult Puzzles at the front of the store to possibly capture sales in this way.

It may not have a huge impact on our weekly turnover, but we do benefit from forcing adults to reminisce over something that is still on the shelf today that hasn’t changed in decades and still has the appeal of imaginative play.

THE SECRET SUPPLIER Appetite for consumption The Secret Supplier sees that the kids want to consume a lot – but the toy industry can offer a raft of top products to satisfy This month The Independent shines his light on a critical dilemma which effects both suppliers and retailers.

He highlights the fact that because kids are growing older younger the total toy market is apparently diminishing. There was a time when the total toy market embraced children up to 12 years of age. But today, as The Independent points out, even kids as young as seven or eight years of age have sadly moved on to more adult interests.

Although this is a well-defined problem affecting the Toy Industry we need to look further to try and identify its causes.

Sociologists tell us that the diminishing period that we can call childhood is caused by the changing lifestyles of adults. With more single parent families and families where both adults work, children face many new experiences. Children are also becoming consumers at an ever earlier age.

For the toy industry this trend perhaps helps explain why global pre-school brands struggle to maintain market share. It is the traditional pre-school market which is the biggest casualty of the 24

dilemma to which The Independent refers.

So how should The Independent defend his retail outlets against this digital onslaught?

The smart money points us towards concepts originally developed for video games or tablets that have helpfully spilled over into toys. Look at Skylanders and Moshi Monsters. None of these modern concepts carry typical description of toys and perhaps therein lies our problem. Toys are for really young kids!

Perhaps that explains the huge success of LEGO where the products are not described as toys but by the moniker of “LEGOS”. Similarly call a toy a hobby and suddenly you are playing to a much wider audience!

Amazing new technology brings us incredible flying drones and amazing RC vehicles that appeal to the boy in every young man.

As The Independent found out for himself there are products that appeal to the young girl in every women. In that respect while it is surely true that young kids are getting older, is it not also true that us older people are acting younger?

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BUSINESS

DRIVER

Hiring and firing H

iring the right people and making sure they are assimilated into the culture is important in companies both big and small. Indeed it is the most important task for anyone running a business. In my Hasbro European role, I spent 25% to 30% of my time on people related issues, ranging from recruitment, to training programmes, assessments, coaching and succession planning. In my experience training and promoting people internally within a company is always more successful than hiring externally. This is what we focused on at Hasbro Europe and it was critical to our success over the years.

As a start-up, however, recruiting internally is not an option, so you have to hire externally.

Equally the cost of getting your recruitment wrong is disproportionately high for a start-up business. The impact of a hire not working out in a large corporation where there are hundreds of people is minimal. For a start-up, however, this is likely to be a high percentage of your workforce.

Given this, what advice have I given to the business start-ups I am mentoring?

Firstly, and most importantly, wherever possible only hire people that you know and trust. At Hedstrom the first three hires were all people I had worked with previously. The key appointment was Melanie Stubbing. She was my top performing employee at both Fisher Price and Mattel and we had a great relationship. I hadn’t been planning to hire someone as senior at this early stage, but I knew that Mel would provide way more added value to the business than the extra cost of hiring her. Bringing Mel into the business was the best decision I made. In contrast, my fourth hire was someone I hadn’t worked with before. This person really didn’t work out well and it set the company back many months while also costing us much

needed profit and cash flow.

Secondly, make sure you hire generalists not specialists.

In start-up businesses you have to be able to deal with multiple challenges across all the disciplines. So it is critical that the people you hire have a breadth of experience and equally importantly, relish the opportunity of getting involved in all aspects of the business. When I hired Mel she was an experienced Marketing Director, who had also demonstrated great sales skills and a passion for working with the customers. Furthermore she had a finance training, so her profile was ideal for a start up business.

Finally, the people that you hire need to be entrepreneurial and comfortable taking risks at this stage in their career. Hiring someone who has a large mortgage and can’t afford to be without a salary for a while is not what you want to be doing. When I started up the Hedstrom UK business I had nearly 20 years of large company salary and benefits behind me. Equally importantly, I was passionate about starting up a business and proving to myself that I wasn’t just a big company operator.

Miguel at Science4You is setting up an operation in the UK for 2015, so I had the chance to put this advice into practice recently. Miguel needed an experienced sales person who could get the brand listed across multiple customers. omers. My advice to Miguel was to hire a sales agentt to avoid high fixed costs (protect the cash flow) and to work with someone we already ready knew. As a result, Mike Barratt’s att’s agency is now working with Science4You on the sales side. Mike and I worked together at Mattel attel and he is one of the best sales people I have worked with. I am confident that having Mike as part of the Science4You team will be a major asset to their UK start up.

Getting the right people in place is crucial to your business, John Harper explains why

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

MARCH 2015

2

FEATURE OUTDOOR

The great outdoors Fit, fun and fresh - outdoor toys are exciting, dynamic and a sure-fire hit with both parents and kids. But what’s new to the market and what should retailers get excited about?

I

t might not feel like it right now – but spring really is in the air. After months of children being cooped up, you can put money on parents practically pushing them outside at the first sight of sunshine.

This is good news for retailers and just about everyone who has anything to do with the outdoor toy category.

“

Year-round appeal But ensuring outdoor toys are attractive year-round is a battle every supplier and retailer faces.

So how do companies tackle this issue?

“We ensure our products are ‘feature’ rich, so have all year round appeal, whatever the weather,” explains Little Tikes Marketing Manager Michelle Lilley. “This, coupled with investment in marketing support, ensures we see strong sales throughout the year – in particular with items such as our infamous Cozy Coupes, Play Houses, 4-in-1 Trikes and Slides – they always remain stable whatever the season and weather.”

MV Sports Sales & Marketing Director Phil Ratcliffe told us: “Notwithstanding the assumption that

26

It is a certain that if retailers have the space to present outdoor products ‘out of box’ it will result in additional sales Phil Ratcliffe, MV Sports

”

outdoor toys are mainly used in the spring/summer season; the key buying season is still the run up to Christmas, especially where wheeled toys are concerned. Bikes and scooters are still seen by consumers as essential Christmas presents.”

This is echoed by re:creation’s Outdoor Brand Manager Katy Fletcher who told us: “Certainly from the Razor point of view, sales are actually spread well across the year and, in fact, we see a peak in the last quarter in the lead up to Christmas.”

All this is reassuring news to those stocking outdoor toys or looking into the possibility of extending their range.

How is the category performing?

Another reassuring factor for retailers is that the category is performing well.

Famosa’s Marketing Manager Nikki Jeffery explains more: “For us right now we are seeing some strong growth within our outdoor category.

We have opened up the availability by offering a selected range from our UK warehouse where minimum order quantities are reduced versus buying from our Alicante warehouse. We have also increased our online presence through a combination of

our new direct dispatch program as well as increased listing online generally. With click and collect seeing such and dramatic growth the online presence is key to such a purchase and a major driving force behind our growth.”

Little Tikes also reported on a strong 2014 which they say was “an extremely positive year”, as Michelle explains: “In 2014 Little Tikes had a strong mix of new lines across core categories such as Trikes, Wooden Playsets and additions to our iconic Cozy Coupe family. We have seen significant growth in the outdoor space – this was helped by the great weather we had over the summer period.”

The same can be said for MV Sports with Phil adding: “The outdoor category is performing very well at the moment. Last year we posted double digit growth and so far in 2015 we are ahead of last year.

Most of our key segments (own brand and licensed) posted growth in 2014 so things are going well at the moment.”

Another company which has embraced the Fit & Fun mantra is Chicco. Toys Product Manager Holly John revealed that retailers reported strong sales and positive feedback

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on the range allows Chicco to be confident that 2015 will be just as strong.

Show ‘em off By the nature of their use, outdoor toys are often more substantial than other categories which can leave smaller retailers in a bit of a quandary when it comes to showing them off to their best advantage. We asked suppliers how they help retailers tackle the issue. “We work closely with our retail partners to help them to showcase our products, including our outdoor toys,” explains Chicco’s Holly. “This includes point of sale, plinths, and a dedicated Chicco space to help customers recognise that the products are from a brand which they know and trust.”

Likewise, re:creation credit giving retailers as many assets as possible.

Katy explains, “We aim to provide as much content to retailers as possible to suit their environment.”

Phil says that from MV Sport’s perspective “it is a certain that if retailers have the space to present outdoor products ‘out of box’ it will result in additional sales. We do additional POS materials but there is no substitute for seeing the product in the flesh.”

Famosa’s Nikki adds: “Feber products, although large play pieces, are actually compact in themselves so make maximum use of any shop floor space. Being a considered purchase product a majority of the time, outdoor products will be researched online and via catalogue in the first instance where we can showcase our complete portfolio.”

These aren’t just fun There may be a perception that outdoor toys are solely focused on fun but that is not so. We asked our contributors if there is added value to the category. For Little Tikes, the drive to getting children outdoors and active continues to be key, says Michelle.

Famosa’s Nikki adds: “Outdoor toys help develop a child’s coordination as they will require games or climbing or figuring how to open and close a door. Outdoor products will always offer the child a higher level of physical play, but are always presented in a super fun, brightly coloured way.”

So, while spring is in the air and the summer months close in, ask yourself - is your outdoor offering going to keep kids happy?

WE ASKED… What new product can retailers expect to see in your range this season?

“We’re very excited to be extending our popular Fit & Fun range with the introduction of Mini Golf.

In our bikes and trikes range we have a brand new collection of U/GO trikes, available in three colours; Pink Rosa, White & Red or Ducati Red. Finally our outdoor range is bolstered by a new cross runner balance bike .”

Holly John, Chicco “The big news is our multi property agreement with Disney which covers their classic evergreen properties such as Disney Princess, Star Wars, Avengers, Cars/Planes.

We have also made key introductions to our portfolio of classic brands such as Thomas, Peppa, Fireman Sam and Batman. Our own brands have also been strengthened with key introductions to our Kickmaster, Hedstrom, Stunted and E-Moto ranges.”

Phil Ratcliffe, MV Sports

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27

FEATURE OUTDOOR

Wheely good MV SPORTS 01217488000 www.mvsports.co.uk Following a successful 2014, MV Sports continues to lead the market in licensed and own-brand wheeled toys. This year and Scoot MV’s portfolio of exciting sector-leading Cases; travel licences is further strengthened with the cases with flip addition of several highly anticipated new down scooter properties including an amazing multiattachment. property licences agreement with the MV’s Stormtrooper Another Walt Disney Company. The new Disney inspired range of Star great new line-up features Disney Princess, Disney Wars skateboards, pre-school Cars and Disney Planes as well as The scooters, bikes and range is In the Night Garden. MV Sports Avengers and Star Wars helmets has been a have developed a unique range of trikes, which are both gearing up star attraction since its scooters and ride-ons. For older boys, for huge film releases in launch. This offers an trusted favorites such as Batman and Star 2015. Disney Princess has time and exciting option for Wars lead the way. New licences are again proven itself as a staple retailers in advance of currently under development for licence in the girls’ pre-school the launch of Episode Thunderbirds and World of Warriors. market. The innovative new range VII later this year.

Marvel’s Avengers promises to be the combines magical accessories and superhero hit of the spring/summer cinema features with new regal colourways season with Avengers 2 Age of Ultron due and graphics. for release in April. Advance orders for the brand new striking For younger boys, the Disney Cars range of helmets, skateboards, scooters and bikes have been range revs into life with full on colours, phenomenal. MV’s own-branded wheeled range has attracted a graphic and recognisable Lightening McQueen character lot of attention throughout last year and into 2015. The Grow & features. The collection offers everything from scooters to Go range is focused on a parent-friendly combination of bikes and helmets to skateboards. convertibility and re-configuration which allows each product to Peppa Pig and Thomas are leading the way in the pre-school adapt to the child’s needs as they grow in confidence. For older children, the Stunted range of extreme stunt scooters has been market. Their ranges are boosted further enhanced with the addition of the XTS and XTC top spec with innovative products such as scooters for the skate park and brand new Voodoo Dirt Scooter the Sit ‘n’ Scoot, which converts for off road. from ride-on to scooter at the press of a button

STAR WARS

A monster load of fun DKL 01604 678 780 www.dkl.co.uk DKL is the exclusive UK distributor bestselling plastic vehicles are ibutor of Miniland Educational toys. Miniland’s b available in four different sizes, Minimobil, Go Jobs, Dumpy, and Giant which measure 9cm, 12cm, 18cm and 45cm respectively. The Minimobil vehicles make ideal pick-up lines for stores as they can be purchased individually, in tubs or in a CDU. The Go Jobs range offers even further variety with popular themes such as Boats, Racing Cars and Ambulance. To go along with these brilliant vehicles, there is the brand-new Traffic Box which can be used as portable storage for outdoor toys and also opens up into a play mat! New for 2015 is the Super Tractor; the yellow and green tractor measures 62cm in length and is therefore the biggest outdoor toy in the range. The Monster Truck is also a fantastic option for outdoor toys and children will be thrilled when they find that the Monster Truck doubles up as a ride on toy! Another great value for money item from Miniland Educational is the bestselling Garden Kit. The kit consists of nine different outdoor tools. All tools are encased within a handy outdoor bucket which can also be used for imaginative play. Other outdoor toys available in the Miniland range include the brand-new Giantte Deco. This fantastic educational toy is perfect for the beach or garden; in addition to the colourful numbered stacking cups, the Giantte Deco includes a shape sorter with four different shapes.

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Heavyweight TV campaign from Easter throughout the summer A fun novelty outdoor toy with a proven sales history AIMED AT boys & girls aged 5+ Key spring price points a RRP at RR RP 4.

4.99 4 .99 99 and and an d 9.

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Dedicated website Dedic De ed dica cat ated ted w we ebs sit te te www ww ww.p w.phlatball ph hla atb ba all l.c com co m www.phlatball.com

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throw as a disc

pops into a ball at random

AVA O S AL

FEATURE OUTDOOR

In flying form FLYING GADGETS 0844 209 2626 www.flyinggadgets.com Flying Gadgets already boast an array of the most innovative and contemporary helicopters, boats, ride-ons and quadcopters in the sector and 2015 sees the company launch a wide range of new and innovative products.

The Flying Gadgets X-Drone is a distinctive addition to the range, with blades surrounded in foam. This brand-new midsize quadcopter is fitted with the latest gyroscope technology and an optional high-definition camera can be added. The LCD controller (2.4ghz) has three different flying modes, while LED lights ensure the X-Drone can’t be missed. It’s capable of 360° flips and with the latest drone gyroscope technology guaranteeing incredible stability, is perfect for outside flying to take panoramic shots not normally captured on camera.

Flying Gadgets is also excited to offer The Big 1 – a 27mhz radio-controlled monster truck with a range of over 50m. Its giant wheels make it suitable for use on all terrains and it’s capable of handling the muddiest of puddles as well as jumps.

The Big 1 is available from March.

Finally, Flying Gadgets will be expanding its extensive fleet of licensed ride-on cars for children. These realistic scale replicas of cars including the Volkswagen Beetle, Bugatti, Porsche and Aston Martin are perfect for both boys and girls aged 3+. They each feature a 6V or 12V battery, seat belt and a parents remote control for safety. They also boast authentic ignition and engine sounds, steering wheel sounds on turns, a horn and working lights so children get a realistic driving experience every time.

Feel the Feber FAMOSA UK 01623 237433 www.famosa.es Toys have been rationalised into three categories – battery ride-ons, foot-tofloor and outdoor – in easily identifiable red, blue and green colour-coded new packaging for 2015 by Spanish outdoor specialist Feber.

New hero products for the year are the Baby Evolution Easy Trike, the Ferrari FF, the Modern House, the 6V Range Rover and the Roadstar Venture. Available for immediate delivery to meet customer demand, all these hero toys are held in Famosa’s UK warehouse.

Available in May, the new replica Range Rover 6V will appeal to those who prefer the looks of a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It is powered by a 6-volt motor, has forward and reverse gears, an accelerator and electric brake for ultimate cruising in style!

With a sleek black body, stylish alloy wheels and wing mirrors, the Range Rover 6V is a value-for-money alternative to its more powerful bigger brother, the 12V Range Rover Sport.

Other licenced battery ride-ons performing well for Feber are firm favourites, the 6V single-seater Ferrari FF, along with the 6V Cars 2 Lightning McQueen and the 12V two-seater Ferrari California. Safety, comfort and innovation are core values of the Feber outdoor toy range. After sales service includes an unrivalled spare parts service.

Full details on the complete range of outdoor toys from Feber can be found at the dedicated UK and Ireland website www.feber.com

30

Be a road star!

Available in June, the new Roadstar Venture is a new entry-level battery operated car from Feber. The aggressive, sleek sporting looks and bright red colour scheme will appeal to young ones thrilled with speed.

Suitable from three years old, the Roadstar Venture is powered by a batteryoperated 6V motor and also features forward and reverse gears, a foot accelerator and electric brake. It comes complete with battery and charger.

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© 2015 MARVEL

ORDER ULTRA FAST FOR MARVELLOUS SALES

FEATURE OUTDOOR

Fitness made fun A lil’ bit crazy RE:CREATION 01189736222 www.recreationltd.co.uk Re:creation will be blazing a trail in the outdoor arena in 2015 with incredible new launches across its industry leading Razor portfolio and performance launcher brand, Air Storm. The skies will be alight this year as Air Storm welcomes the FireTek range. With the introduction of LED lights, FireTek Rocketz and soon-to-launch FireTek Zeon Bow and FireTek Z-Curve Bows create an awesome light display like no other. Fire the bungee launched FireTek Rocketz as high as 76 metres into the sky while the new lightup Z-Curve Bow can launch illuminated FireTek arrows over 40 metres.

Innovators in ride-ons and scooters, Razor isn’t resting on its laurels either.

Kick and stunt scooters remain at the heart of the company’s offering and in 2015 – let there be lights! The amazing Party Pop Scooter injects ultimate fun into the action for scooter fans. This funky scooter features a light-up deck for pure party style and, with try-me packaging, it is set to quite literally ‘pop’ at retail too. Taking the action into new territory, the RX200 will join Razor’s electric scooter portfolio. This rugged scooter is loaded with a high torque motor and off-road robust, 60 psi pneumatic tyres for tougher terrains. The fun of the award-winning Crazy Cart is extended in 2015 with the Crazy Cart XL – an adult-sized edition of the drifting dream machine, and the Lil’ Crazy – an edition under the Razor Junior banner designed to offer pre-schoolers age 3+ the chance to get the drift too. The Lil’ Crazy isn’t the only chance for tots to get in on the electric action in 2015 as Razor Junior also introduces the Mini Mod – a pre-schooler take on the evergreen Pocket Mod, available in pink and green.

32

LeapFrog 01895202840 www.leapfrog.com LeapBand encourages active play and healthy habits as little ones play and move with the help of a virtual pet. LeapBand makes fitness fun and is perfect for integrating activity and comprehension while running around outside.

LeapBand comes with 14 pre-loaded activity challenges, designed to get children up and moving in fun and imaginative ways, such as ‘pretend to move like a train’, ‘wiggle like a worm’ and ‘walk to something yellow’.

Up to 36 additional challenges can also be downloaded free of charge via LeapFrog Connect, where parents can also see their child’s activity levels by day. Children can also play onscreen games such as Pet Chef and Pet Parlour, which all contribute to earning valuable energy points known as joules required to receive rewards for their pet and unlock additional game play on other devices.

Designed in conjunction with LeapFrog’s inhouse team of educational experts, LeapBand was tested with families throughout its development. High-tech features on the device include a built-in accelerometer, high-resolution colour screen, rechargeable battery and splashproof design, and its wearable design means that playtime doesn’t just have to stay at home.

LeapBand also doubles up as both an analogue and digital watch and, for peace of mind, parents can set school and night time modes through LeapFrog Connect, providing the ability to select when LeapBand will work only as a watch but continue to track and reward activity.

Supported by Olympians Beth Tweddle and Greg Rutherford, LeapBand has been certified for great outdoor play while offering a fun, motivational and innovative way to encourage children to get up, outside and moving.

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Stimulating play, learning new skills

through motor development

GOAL LEAGUE When a goal is scored fun lights and sounds are set off.

FISHING ISLAND Rod recognises fishes when caught and activates fun lights and sounds.

NFEOW R 2015

MONKEY STRIKE

MINI GOLF CLUB An electronic mini golf game tailor made for a child.

2 electronic game modes: Training and hit the mole With encouraging sound effects and lights.

Take the lane.

Aim for a colourful strike or get creative and build towers.

Use as a push scooter.

The

Use it as a Balance Board.

encourages children to play and have fun with sports An active lifestyle starting from early childhood is essential for our children’s growth.

Children nowadays tend to lead a more passive lifestyle; real play is limited – they don’t move around or run freely.

Fit&Fun combines motor development and new skills with social play allowing children to not only improve balance and coordination, but also enhance their self-esteem and self-confidence too.

BALANSKATE 3 games in 1 to gradually develop the child’s balance.

At 3 years, a first skate board.

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range

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

Happiness is a journey that starts when you’re a baby.

FEATURE OUTDOOR

Get into the swing of it!

CHICCO 01623750870 www.chicco.co.uk Chicco is extending its Fit & Fun range, which wh is dedicated to stimulating kids’ Golf game. For two years and motor skills, with the introduction of a Mini M upwards, the new golf game will help hel to develop toddlers’ accuracy skills. make it even more entertaining, The game’s lights and vibrant colours colo to keep track of their while the two scorekeepers help players p achievements. With two different differen modes, golf training or hit the target, there’s plenty to keep little ones one amused for hours.

The Mini Golf will add to the already successful line of Fit & Fun younger children aged 18 months upwards, toys. Starting with toys for yo the Monkey Strike bowling set is ideal to help with coordination and skittles and a bowling ball. For consists of a set of six brightly coloured c children aged from two years, the Chicco Goal childre League electronic nets set helps budding Leagu football stars practice their motor skills, with footb goal feedback for every ball scored. goa

A sizzling new range LITTLE TIKES 0800521558 www.littletikes.co.uk

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This is set to be a big year for Little Tikes with two exciting new launches for spring!

Little Tikes’ vast range of playhouses are as popular as ever – and delight children all year round. Brand new for 2015 is the Cape Cottage Playhouse offering the perfect little play home for any child who enjoys a spot of role-play. The cottage features a mailbox, two Dutch doors and working window shutters.

Cape Cottage comes in through fantastic colours – red, tan and pink. The new launch completes the wide range of playhouses in the Little Tikes range and is set to excite consumers by offering a competitive price point.

Spring will see the new Sizzle n’ Serve Grill launch adding lots of fun and creativity as kids role play BBQ fun, just like Mum and Dad. Cool colours and styling and lots of accessories to make BBQing time the best time ever!

Catch of the day Little ones will love learning to fish with Little Tikes Fish ‘n Splash Water Table, using their very own fishing rods and scoops to make their catch of the day. The fun and innovative design will delight little fishermen as they add their latest catch to the fish bowl ready to be counted, then watch it come splashing back down ready to be caught again!

With 10 fun accessories, little ones will have endless fun catching, counting, pouring, and splashing in their own back garden.

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Roadster Venture Battery and charger included with forward and reverse gears

Foot accelerator and electric brake.

WOW SRP ÂŁ99.99

Battery operated car which operates with a motor and rechargeable 6v battery.

Range Rover The ultimate car for kids! Cruise round in style in the super cool 1 seater Range Rover Sports which is powered by 6 volt motor

Foot accelerator, electric brake.

Top speed of 5 km/h.

Complete with rechargeable 6V battery and charger.

Land Rover and the Land Rover Logo are trademarks owned and licensed by Jaguar Land Rover Limited

For more Feber items Contact: famosauk famosa.es 01623 237 433 www.famosagroup.com

Forward and reverse gears add to the driving experience.

FEATURE OUTDOOR

A super range KIDDIMOTO 01749 871175 www.kiddimoto.co.uk Kiddimoto is looking forward to the sunnier months ahead. The balance bike category is growing every year as consumers become more aware of balance bikes.

The Super Junior metal range is a great first bike for any two-year-old. In a range of colours and two different specs, this is a perfect entry-level range for shops starting to explore the potential of balance bikes.

The Kiddimoto team is very excited about its latest creation – the BoxKart. A modern take on the original soap box racers, Boxkart is a wooden go-kart with adjustable frame, handbrake ke and pneumatic tyres and is designed to bring the whole family together.

Style savvy For spring/summer 2015, Kiddimoto has the beautiful new girly butterflies design as well as the skullz patterned wooden Kurve perfect for little boys, 3 years +. Matching stylish helmets and gloves complete the look.

Bursting with outdoor goodness BROOKITE 0183753315 www.brookite.com

Sunny side up

New for 2015 for Brookite are the giant Sunbeam and Skyburst kites - at over one metre in length, they come in exciting colourways and are fun and easy to fly with long streamer tails that make them look spectacular in the sky.

Also new are a fun Chicken Spinner, a Star Spinner and a Turbo Twister in the Windthings range and exciting designs in the updated Venom Skateboard products. Brookite also carry a large range of frisbees, windsocks, play parachutes and hobby horses plus much, much more.

PLUM 07866370336 www.plumproducts.com With 2015 marking Plum’s 25th year in outdoor toys, the brand has a lot to shout about!

New for spring/summer 2015 is the Plum In-Ground Trampoline.

Specifically engineered for sinking into the ground, the trampoline has a thick steel top rail, solid retaining wall and vented jumping mat for excellent bounce performance. With no need for a safety enclosure, the unobtrusive design blends perfectly into any garden.

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FEATURE OUTDOOR

Zip-It you!

BANANAGRAMS - WINNING MOVES UK 020 7298 9500 www.bananagrams.com

Sporting fun

The must-have outdoor games for summer 2015, Jumbo BANANAGRAMS and Jumbo ZIP-IT promise hours of wordplay fun, whatever the weather. While these innovative, supersized versions of two of Bananagrams’ best-selling word games are perfect for family outdoor play in the garden, at the beach, in the playground or in the park, they’re both equally great fun for rainy-day play at home or in the classroom.

Jumbo BANANAGRAMS is a giant version of the original international word game phenomenon, while Jumbo ZIP-IT is a large-scale edition of the fast-paced two-player word race, that can be played in as little as 20 seconds.

TRADITIONAL GARDEN GAMES 02877722562 www.traditionalgardengames.co.uk The Traditional group of companies encompasses three traditional brands which provide a wide range of products to meet all leisure needs.

The Traditional Garden Games range reflects the importance of tradition and heritage and encourages participation, competitiveness and fun. The Traditional Fun and Games range makes leisure time more enjoyable for all the family and inspires children’s involvement and interaction.

Finally, the Traditional Sports and Fitness range encourages the young to stay fit and healthy by engaging them in time-honoured classic sports.

As a national and global brand they care about their customers and work hard to continue offering traditional quality products including croquet, boules, rounder’s and quoits. New on offer in the Traditional Sports and Fitness range are the versatile Badminton, Volleyball and Tennis Play Sets available with 3m or 5m length nets. The timeless brands offer the right level of choice demanded by today’s mass consumer markets and reflect the highest standards of quality and safety. Traditional Garden Games differentiate itself through customer focus, trustworthiness, and innovation. They are well equipped to supply everyone from independent stores through to multi-channel retailers.

Wigwam play tent set – big for spring summer 2015 Traditional Garden Games Wigwam Play Tent Set stands at 1.9m Tall, with a diameter of 1.3m allowing loads of room inside. With broad appeal for both boys and girls between three and 10 years, the Wigwam Play Tent Set is sure to be the next big thing for spring summer 2015.

Flower power BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 www.bigjigstoys.co.uk Young wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the thrill of bug hunting when equipped with a Bigjigs Magnifying Glass and sturdy Bug Keeper or Bug Box with which to examine their minibeasts. Those with a passion for floral finds will adore the Bigjigs Flower Press, complete with colourful top board and chunky ladybird screws in each corner. Bigjigs Toys also offers a selection of sturdily-built rope ladders and swings for fun in the great outdoors. Both the traditional Rope Ladder and more challenging Triangular Rope Ladder will test the skills of the most confident climber while the Flat Swing, Cradle Swing and best-selling Ladybird Swing offer a more gentle garden activity.

The Wigwam Play Tent Set is a showcase product with fun printed designs and dress-up accessories enabling kids to enjoy the full imagination play experience.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

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FEATURE OUTDOOR

Pedal power!

GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk Outdoor fun for both tots and older children is more than catered for by Great Gizmos with traditional ride-on toys for the little ones, a wooden range of garden activities and a sky high rocket collection for kids of all ages.

The Geospace Air Thruster is an aerodynamic rocket plane that will fly 50ft into the sky or, for fast-paced action on-the-go, the Pump Rocket Micro Wrist Shotz will make even James Bond envious of this convenient and inconspicuous device that attaches to children’s wrists and fires three mini rockets using a hand pump!

Ideal for the girls is the Classic Pedal Car that has a new powder pink colour and is an authentic looking rideon car, hand-built in strong steel and more than sturdy enough for children aged

Get sky-high Blasting on to the scene is Geospace, a sky-high collection of pump rockets that lets kids have fun indoors and out.

The patented thrust booster included in all rockets allows kids to shoot the foam rocket up to 300 feet into the air!

New for 2015 is the Super Soft Slinger, a soft flying disc that will fly up to 50ft. With a variety of colours available, kids will be able to have fun indoors or out. For playtime as a pair, the Pop N Catch is a catching game; pull the trigger and kids can watch as the ball launches from their cup towards their opponent’s cup.

three to five. Expanding the collection further are the Ride-On Aeroplane, Rocket and Retro Racers in green and red.

For outdoor play, the Croquet Set is a family favourite and will delight children for years to come. The colourful set includes hoops, mallets and four wooden animal balls. The full set of Mini Golf can be played indoors or out and consists of wooden golf clubs, wooden balls and three challenging tracks. Alternatively the Monkey Bowling set features five monkey pins that children can knock down endlessly.

Swimmingly good

Hop to it, chick

JOHN ADAMS

01278 434440 www.hippychick.com

01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk INTEX from John Adams has added the hugely popular Hello Kitty range to its character collection for 2015. The range features a variety of traditional swimming aids, including the Swim Ring, the 20” Beach Ball and Armbands. Each product features the instantly recognisable Hello Kitty characters – perfect for future fashionistas! Joining the baby and small pools category for 2015 is the Sea Turtle Baby Shade Pool. Measuring 102 x 107cm when fully inflated, this soft and fun pool can hold up to 43 litres of water and features a built-in sunshade in a fun turtle shaped design, providing partial protection from harsh UV sunlight. This new addition joins the 124cm Lazy Fish Shade Baby Pool in the range, as well as a selection of products under the Sunset Glow and Crystal banners. All the pools in the collection are to assemble and available in a variety of sizes for the whole the family to enjoy.

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HIPPY CHICK

If it is something a bit different you are looking for then go no further than HappyHopperz, the inflatable toys that scream fun! These fantastic bounce-along toys take their inspiration from the cult Space Hopper.

Available in 14 funky animal designs (two sizes) everything from dinosaurs through to cows, dogs, horses and reindeers - there is a ‘Hopper’ for everyone!

These bright, inflatable animals take bouncing to a whole new level and are created with ears and horns for children to grip on to and feet to steady the bounce.

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FEATURE OUTDOOR

Blast with Boom MATTEL 01628500000 www.mattel.com BOOMco continues to bring the next generation in adrenalinefuelled fun to the outdoor market with a range of amped-up blasters, darts, shields and targets built for maximum distance and speed to blast better and faster.

Blasting through to 2015 is an impressive line bringing style and attitude to active play, giving kids a revolutionary blaster experience. Spring/summer sees the continuation of the popular Twisted Spinner which features a rotating barrel that spins 310 degrees with every dart you fire so you can launch eight darts in rapid succession up to 70 feet in the air. With Smart Stick Technology, you can see exactly where you nailed it as the tip of every dart sticks to the shields and sticky targets only. New, innovative launches for spring/summer include the Railstinger which blasts up to 60 feet and features two awesome ways to play and the impressive Slamblast. Also continuing this year are the Dual Defenders, Whipblast, Farshot and Clipfire.

Explore the world around us INTERPLAY 01628488944 www.interplayuk.com

Life in the fast lane H. GROSSMAN LTD D 01416132525 www.ozbozz.co.uk This year The Minions are everywhere and they are also starring in the HGL range which includes a whole collection of outdoor products, scooters, bikes, skateboards, satchel skateboards, t inline skates, and pogo stick. There are even helmets featuring Minions with one eye and Minions with two eyes.

Plus a whole host of pocket-money items including yo yos, bubble wands, balls, wobblers and fingerboards. Then in pole position is the Speedy scooter – this sturdy steed is designed for those who want to know how fast they can go.

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When it comes to outdoor play, Interplay’s My Living World range ticks all the boxes. These popular kits actively encourage kids to get outdoors with a down to earth approach to exploring nature and discovering the wonders of the natural world.

Each kit has been thoughtfully developed by nature experts and boasts quality components, appealing packaging and beautifully detailed activity guides. The range is competitively priced to allow strong sales at good margins. It’s no wonder that the My Living World range is highly rated by many retailers, delivering an excellent return in investment.

Top-selling lines include Ant World and Worm World which are mainstays of the range and perennial best-selling lines. Butterfly World, launched last year, has become a firm favourite with both retailers and consumers and sells strongly through the spring and summer seasons. For sub£10 offerings, the ever popular Bug Safari Kit provides children with fascinating bug hunting activities, and for those kids with a creative view of cute and cuddly pets then Snail World, Ladybird World and Spider World deliver expert hints, tips and fascinating insights into these little creature’s lives. In all the range consists of 10 fascinating and fun-filled activity kits all designed to encourage kids to explore and discover the world around them.

This year Interplay introduces an exciting new addition, the Instant Flower Press. This amazing new device is unique to the toy market and allows flowers to be pressed, dried and ready to use in a matter of seconds using a microwave oven.

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Tel: 0118 973 6222 • sales@recreationltd.co.uk • www.recreationltd.co.uk

FEATURE OUTDOOR

Nature close up LEARNING RESOURCES 01553819386 www.LearningResources.co.uk Promote active learning and adventure outdoors with the Primary Science Big View Binoculars and watch as children get a closer view of the natural world!

Made from strong, durable plastic, this scientific tool features soft rubber eyepieces, an easy turn focusing wheel and 6x magnification for hours of hands-on discovery.

Use inside to view everyday objects or take outside to watch the wonders of wildlife, the Big View Binoculars also include a safe, breakable lanyard to ensure that, even when they’re on-the-go, they never lose focus!

Primary Science, from educational toy specialist Learning Resources, has everything the budding young scientist will need to start to get to grips with the wonderful world of science. Perfect for introducing children to basic scientific concepts, the Primary Science range is packed full of real working equipment and sturdy well-sized tools suitable for children age 3 and over.

Wubble bubble with force VIVID 01483449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk What looks like a bubble, but plays like a ball? It’s the amazing Wubble Bubble Ball!

This innovative product is super stretchy, squishy and so lightweight that you can kick it, throw it, catch it and even whack it! Wubble will be available with a pump in blue and pink as well as without a pump in blue and purple. This exciting brand will be heavily supported throughout 2015 with TV and PR activity from launch.

Wubble was also voted best new toy in the outdoor category at London Toy Fair!

Achieving amazing flight times has never been so easy with Aero Force Sky Riders. These sleek, aerodynamic and ultra-lightweight gliders come equipped with precision wings that are designed to maximise flight times.

Sky Riders can become airborne by simply throwing them; however each Sky Rider comes with a launcher to help achieve amazing flight times and dizzying heights. With no assembly or batteries required you can start the soaring straight away. Available in six different cool wing designs. All of the outdoor SKUs will be TV advertised from March onwards, sunshine permitting!

Phlat out fun

After a year of strong sales in 2014, Phlat Ball has been a proven winner in the outdoor category. tegory. 2015 sees the introduction uction of the Phlat Ball Jr Neon eon available in three awesomely mely bright colours; neon pink, neon orange and neon on green. The range will also include the Phlat Ball V3 in three cool colours, red, yellow and purple. Simply throw a disc, catch a ball!

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Email: sales@traditionalgardengames.co.uk

www.traditionalgardengames.com

FEATURE OUTDOOR

The great outdoors SIMBA SMOBY 01274765030 www.simbasmoby.com/en Smoby has been delivering high-quality French-made outdoor toys for nearly 100 years, and Simba Smoby continues to expand its outdoor offering in 2015 with new ride-on and licensed garden toys from French giant Smoby. The Smoby brand, known and trusted by UK consumers for decades, has been growing steadily over the past five years backed up

by Simba Smoby’s excellent home delivery dropship service - helping retailers offer the widest range while freeing up valuable space and capital.

In the ride-on category, there is a new learning bike and two new Smoby tractors available, including the incredible Tractor Builder. At almost 2m long and with excavation and tipping equipment at the front and the back, this is every kid’s dream construction ride-on!

With summer soon to arrive, the new Smoby Fun Centre is the perfect garden accessory. Integrating a playhouse with slide-out picnic table along with a ladder and slide, 1st floor platform, football goal and basketball net - there’s no end to the fun kids will have. And on a smaller scale, the new Smoby Sand/Water table brings this classic garden toy up to date with an innovative central sand/water activity station.

Please contact Simba Smoby Toys UK for a full catalogue and details of its home delivery service.

Just glide and slide!

The Smoby licensed outdoor range is also expanding, with new XS slides featuring girls’ favourites Frozen, Sofia the First and Minnie as well as new Picnic Tables for the Minnie and Cars brands. Made in Europe to the highest quality, these slides and picnic tables are also competitively priced and available with short lead-times from Smoby’s French manufacturing base.

Fun on the farm GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.co.uk Golden Bear’s My First JCB range is a colourful, kid tough pre-school construction vehicle brand based on real-life JCB vehicles, created for little hands with big imaginations. New for autumn/winter is My First JCB Build and Go Digger Joey. Specially designed for children as young as 2 years, the Build & Go Digger includes a cab, easy to grip screw driver, four super-sized wheels and front scoop. Budding engineers can use the fun screwdriver to attach the wheels and front scoop to the cab and the digger can be assembled over and over again for lots of construction fun. The screwdriver stores neatly away at the back of the cab when not in use. Also new to the collection is My First JCB Fun Farm Tractor Tim. Designed for little hands, the vehicle encourages imaginative play and features a trailer with drop down tail gate which can also be detached from the tractor. Fun Farm Tractor Tim has big chunky wheels making him great for indoor or outdoor play.

Super-sized and kid tough My First JCB Big Wheeler Freddie features a fun green plough. Kids can use the plough to rake sand or soil and the plough folds up when not in use and can even be removed altogether for indoor play. Last but not least, RC Doug Dumptruck is a remote control vehicle 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 him to perform a reverse turn. Doug also comes complete with a manual tipping bucket which children can load, transport and tip whether indoors or out.

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Let’s get rad, man SBYKE 0800 566 8849 www.sbykeuk.co.uk Fresh from the United States, Sbyke is the next step in scooter evolution and the hottest new transport craze! This revolutionary new scooter features unique rearsteer technology, which gives the rider the sensation of skiing or snowboarding, without leaving the ground.

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FEATURE OUTDOOR

Take flyte HY-PRO 01582500846 www.hy-pro.co.uk

Balance baby!

PRINCE LIONHEART 0208 997 7054 www.princelionheart.com Sleek, modern and very stable for little boys and girls, the Prince Lionheart yoMOTO is a brand new motorbike style ride-on. Highly commended in the 2014 BANTA awards at Harrogate Nursery Fair, it’s available in white with a blue or red flash. 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. The bike is suitable for toddlers from 18 months plus.

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 balanceBIKEs. With its eco-friendly wooden frame with padded and adjustable seat for growing kiddos, 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 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! The brightly coloured toy and ride-on that has a secret compartment for little ones to hide and carry their favourite things on the adventure. The traveller can enjoy the YetiZOO’s manoeuvrability and comfort to make the trip.

The steering handlebar is constructed such that it ensures maximum safety for the child while riding and turning. The yetiZOO is constructed of innovative plastic materials which provide a velvety, strong and superior feeling. It provides great exercise indoors and out for little ones aged 1-3 Years.

Two designs, Joey the Smiley Hippo and Jerri the Happy Elephant available in three colourways of red, blue and green.

Make playtime anything but flat with the Prince Lionheart playMAT range. Create a safe and clean space for children to lose themselves to imagination and do what they do best, play.

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Keeping children active and outside is one of Zinc’s main focus. The new Zinc case scooter is proof of this, it was unveiled at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair and received an extremely positive response!

Designed for ease of transportation, the vibrant Zinc Flyte case scooter offers a travel solution for children.

Suitable for children aged 4 and over, the integrated footplate allows the case scooter to transform from a scooter to a pull-a-long case. Protected by worldwide design rights and patents, the case scooter is impact resistant, easy to clean and splash proof making it the perfect travel solution for everyday use!

Also revealed at Nuremberg Toy Fair, a newly developed Zinc backpack scooter accompanies the case scooter in the range. The backpack scooter provides a solution for kids on the go. The footplate can be removed easily and placed into its own compartment transforming it into a pull-along backpack.

Both of these products are available in numerous colours and will be supported by full marketing campaigns for 2015.

Based on the success of the Zinc electric scooters range Hy-pro have extended this range further for 2015 with the Volt Sport models. These models are available in an array of bright colours.

With a sleek appearance the push and go feature allows the Volt Sport to reach soaring speeds of up to 8mph.

The Volt Sport electric scooters have a longer life and a faster recharging battery so children can enjoy the Volts for longer.

The innovation continues with Zinc launching the first electric bicycle for kids. The Zinc 20 inch ReAction is powered by a powerful, light weight and environmentally friendly lithium battery.

Launch into summer REVELL GMBH 0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en Action, summer and fun - the perfect trio for kids – and the new, extended summer action range of Planes, Rockets and Action Games from Revell offers everything you need for a perfect, action-packed summer.

Five hand launch gliders are bound to be a flyaway hit and can survive even harder landings with their expanded rigid foam body. Notable is the amazing Circler, a battery-powered propeller plane with a pistol grip charger and an integrated charging function. It automatically flies in a circle until it lands, is easy to use and quick to charge.

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www.ggtrade.co.uk

TOYS GIFTS and great ideas!

award-winning outdoor toys for spring/summer 2015

See our full range at www.kiddimoto.co.uk or call us on 01749 871175 for more info

SUPPLIER

OPINION

Trade talk

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we speak to key wholesalers and suppliers to learn what’s on their minds. We explore this month’s hottest topics.

This month we ask key toy industry personnel about retailer reaction to their ranges, how they utilise apps and technology in their toys and crucially - what toy they would bring to a desert island!

LINDSAY HARDY Marketing Director, Trends UK Has retailer reaction to any of your new products surprised you?

We’ve found they have very healthy appetites for both well-known brands with traditional play like Puppy Surprise and new technology items like MiPosaur and REV. Have you utilised apps and technology with your products and has it been successful?

WowWee use both in their market-leading items.

Robotic Enhanced Vehicles (REV) use apps as the control for their battling. They have Artificial Intelligence which means they know where they are and have real time tracking and planning ability to attack each other, no need for track or mats which limit the play possibilities. MiPosaur is self-balancing and has gesture sense technology so he responds to your hand movements and also to being controlled via an App. If you had to pick a toy to take to a desert island – would you go tech or traditional?

I think traditional as I’d worry about the possible lack of power source and internet access. Maybe a weaving kit so I could make myself a nice sun hat and a shade to keep my gin and tonic cool.

JO BRAY Head of Sales and Marketing, West Design What is your focus for the next quarter?

To consolidate our position as sole UK distributor of Creativity for Kids craft kits, and to introduce the new Lego USB stick into Europe.

Has retailer reaction to any of your new products surprised you?

The new Lego USB stick has been even more popular than expected.

Have you utilised apps and technology with your products and has it been successful?

As distributors of over 18,000 products, we find that mainstream methods, such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are the most effective way to interact with our customers.

If you had to pick a toy to take to a desert island – would you go tech or traditional?

I’d like tech but worry about the damp, salty air and no electric sockets, so I’ll stick with my trusty teddy.

JEREMY MINCHIN Managing Director, Hippychick

MARVIN BERGLAS Founder, Marvin’s Magic Has retailer reaction to any of your new products surprised you?

Our products always get great reactions but this year I couldn’t be more proud of the phenomenal reactions that our new Marvin’s i-Magic has received worldwide.

Have you utilised apps and technology with your products and has it been successful?

Yes we have worked really hard to exceed everyone’s expectations with our Marvin’s i-Magic app.

If you had to pick a toy to take to a desert island – would you go tech or traditional?

So many to choose from but I’d be happy with a magic wand to magic up all the home comforts!

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Has retailer reaction to any of your new products surprised you?

Not surprised as such as we are always hopeful of a good reaction to the new ranges or styles. Most recently at Spring Fair, feedback was excellent regarding the new colours and styles of Boikido and HappyHopperz.

Have you utilised apps and technology with your products and has it been successful?

Not yet, being traditional toys, they are not natural bedfellows, although it is an area we are exploring.

If you had to pick a toy to take to a desert island – would you go tech or traditional?

Definitely traditional – tech would run out of batteries before very long, traditional lasts a lifetime!

toysnplaythings.co.uk

REVIEW

NORTH AMERICAN TOY FAIR One of the visitors to North American Toy Fair was Flair’s Chairman Peter Brown. Here he gives TnP a snapshot of why New York is a fair worth attending:

A big fair for a big city The toy industry celebrated Valentine’s Day in style at the 112th North American Toy Fair which took place recently.

Trends, top toys and a vibrant industry were all on display

N

ew York is a busy city that doesn’t do anything by halves – so when it hosts a toy fair, it lives up to its name and does it in a big way.

This year the 112th North American Toy Fair opened on Valentine’s Day, 14 February and ran until 17 February – allowing visitors plenty of time to explore the entirety of the Javits Centre - the equivalent of over seven football fields packed with toys.

UK exhibitors such as Bigjigs, BANANAGRAMS, Casdon, Galt and Flying Gadgets, to name just a few, were out in force while visitors walking the aisles were spotted from the likes of

“

WE’D HEARD A LOT ABOUT NEW YORK AND DECIDED TO EXHIBIT AS WE’RE LOOKING TO PENETRATE THE MARKET HERE Jonathan Palmer, Flying Gadgets

”

Toy of the Year winners Spin Master with Carter Keithley (TIA CEO), John Gessert (TIA chair) and Shirley Price (TOTY Committee Chair)

MARCH 2015

Flair, Great Gizmos and Green Board Games.

Prior to the show kicking off, the 15th annual Toy of the Year Awards were held in Grand Hyatt Hotel and Spin Master emerged victorious after Zoomer Dino was awarded Toy of the Year and Boy Toy of the Year.

This year the fair welcomed more than 30,000 visitors with nearly 1,100 exhibitors and among those was Bigjigs Director Liz Ireland. “This is our fifth year at New York Toy Fair,” explained Liz. “We set up a US office because we felt it was the best way to do business here. We didn’t want to use a distributor, we wanted to do it ourselves and at our own pace but we wanted an American dealing with the American market. This is the second year we’ve had our US Sales Manager in place and it allows us to drip feed product at a pace we’re comfortable with.”

First time exhibitors Flying Gadgets,were also present with Business Manager Jonathan Palmer telling TnP: “We’d heard a lot about New York and decided to exhibit as we’re looking to

“I love the New York Toy Fair! For UK buyers and distributors it is the US market that sets the trends in Britain for both product and licences so it makes sense to see what is being unveiled in New York for the coming year.

Like the London Toy Fair, New York has a very positive and friendly atmosphere with open stands, excellent hospitality and plenty of free buses to save on taxi fares!

And the cost of attending New York is only fractionally more than Nuremberg.

I booked a three-day Virgin Atlantic holiday with flights and hotels at just over £1,000. But, be warned, the weather can add an interesting diversion and this year we saw record low temperatures but no snow.

New York Toy Fair... well worth attending.”

penetrate the market here. Passing trade has been very enthusiastic about the product so we’re hoping for good returns on the show.”

The BANANAGRAMS stand was also heaving as the team presented their range to retailers. Top Banana Rena Nathanson was on hand to present the range to buyers and said New York was one of the most dynamic toy fairs of the season.

Speaking about the fair, Carter Keithley, President and CEO of the Toy Industry Association said: “This year’s attendees told us that they enjoyed a busy, successful and exciting show teeming with the best and brightest new toys and games of the year."

Next year...

The dates for next year’s fair have been confirmed. The show will once again take place in the Javits Centre from 13-16 February 2016.

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GAMES & PUZZLES

Roll the dice Offering exciting new experiences in a familiar format, games and puzzles are always a winner. With competition heating up in this flourishing sector, this year’s slate of table top releases are worth looking at

W

ith increasing pressure to offer more choice to consumers and squeeze value out of every inch of shelf space, games and puzzles could be toy retailers’ secret weapon in 2015.

Even a modest injection of new games and puzzles can freshen up any retailer’s product line-up and increase the options they offer their customers. From the frenetic, family multiplayer action with the likes of John Adams’ Elly Foutain, to a Sunday afternoon of magical puzzling with Winning Moves’ Harry Potter range, these products are both comfortingly familiar and excitingly fresh.

The game sector has gained momentum in the past couple of years with fresh product coming through and families turning to board games and puzzles as a way to spend time together away from the everpervasive screen. Refreshes and twists on established favourites have also given stalwart gaming brands new legs, and as Esdevium’s Ben Hogg identifies, the rise of crowdfunding has fuelled the sector with smaller, more niche offerings.

“For games, the competition in the marketplace is really strong, which drives up quality,” says Ben. “With the growth of crowdfunding, barriers to getting to market have been removed and diversity and innovation have benefitted. I genuinely think there is now a game for everyone.”

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“

Everyone loves a good game… we’re proud to offer games that the whole family can enjoy Simon Pilkington, John Adams Leisure Ltd

”

Drumond Park

Esdevium’s games range has performed strongly over the past 12 months. “Forgive the pun, but in the last 12 months we’ve seen terrific growth across the board for our games range,” Ben tells TnP. And it’s a similar story right across the industry.

Adult puzzle manufacturer Jumbo Games’ creative Wasgij brand, which flips the conventions of the traditional jigsaw on its head, continues to bring in new fans. “Wasgij continues to perform increasingly well for us as the number one puzzle brand,” explains Laura Canzio, Puzzle Product Developer, Jumbo Games.

“Wasgij Christmas 10 based on a mystery shopper theme was a great success in 2014 and the on-pack promotion we ran attracted over 20,000 entrants.”

In fact, Christmas is the perfect time to make the most of games and puzzles and pick up some extra sales on the back of the festive celebrations. “Games in particular provide a much needed boost to sales in the last couple of months of the year,” explains Mary Wood, Marketing

Winning Moves

Director at Vivid.

Last year was Vivid’s debut as a big player in the games sector, following the acquisition of games specialist Drumond Park, the company behind Articulate! and LOGO. And despite the inherent hurdles that come during such a transition period, Vivid’s new portfolio of popular games ended the year on a high.

“There was a huge learning curve to go through for both the Vivid and Drumond Park personnel, but we ended up in a very good place,” Mary adds.

“Games proved to be a very competitive sector in A/W14, particularly in children’s games with more competitors coming in to the market and more TV advertising than ever before.

Consumers certainly had plenty of choice but I think a combination of engaging TV adverts, strong sampling, PR activity and a comprehensive promotional programme saw Drumond Park deliver some great results.”

Generation game The games and puzzles sector is in a strong position to capitalise on the year ahead, but what is it that makes them so popular with consumers of all ages? For John Adams Leisure Ltd’s Managing Director, Simon Pilkington, it’s all about having a fun excuse to bring friends and family together.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

We asked...

What impact does licensing have on this sector?

Ben Hogg: Licenses certainly are not the be all and end all for games… but, particularly for children’s games, they can be vital in the decision process. We’re delighted to offer licensed titles for Frozen, Star Wars, Marvel, Disney Princess, Disney Junior, to name just a few.

Laura Canzio: Current licenses are important within the puzzle category. We launched a Game of Thrones puzzle at the end of 2014 which is a very popular seller.

Mary Wood: We know that licenses drive a huge part of the toy market and this will be an area into which Drumond Park will expand alongside a strong portfolio of inhouse developed games for children, families and adults. A good example of this is the introduction to the 2015 range with two hot licenses, Frozen and Star Wars, under the wellknown Spot the Difference game.

Rachel Wyatt: Licenses are great for raising consumer awareness about a product - for example Rory’s Story Cubes will be launching the Batman edition in September to bring the world of storytelling to those who don’t normally see themselves as creative.

MARCH 2015

Orchard Toys

“Everyone loves a good game,” Eyes on the prize he says. “We’re proud to offer So what games and puzzles should The games that the whole family can we be keeping an eye out for in the enjoy. Our whole ethos is about competition in coming year? Mary says there is bringing people together plenty to come from Drumond Park. the through play. marketplace is “There will be the long-awaited “Our success is down to the ‘sequel’ to the LOGO board game really strong, fact that our collection really being launched in the form of the offers something for everyone, which drives LOGO Lite family game, which from Doggie Doo and Gooey contains 260 cards completely up quality Louie for the kids, family games compatible with the original LOGO Ben Hogg, Esdevium such as Think Words and Linkee, game and is also a fabulous new to the ultimate brainteasers from game in its own right,” she says.

Rubik’s.”

“Additionally, there will be four new Ben thinks the increased TV advertised children’s games: Og popularity of board gaming is a on the Bog (already a Best New Game welcome knock-on effect from our winner at Toy Fair), Shh… Don’t Wake Dad, smartphones which bring gaming into Rattle Me Bones and Barbeque Party.” our everyday lives. “In today’s society, From John Adams there’s family fun and everyone is engaging with games fast-paced action on the horizon. “We’ve pretty much daily, largely due to got quite a few introductions for 2015 so technology,” he explains. “Think how there’s lots going on,” says Simon. “In the many apps we have that are either action games category we’ve got Greedy games themselves or encourage us to Sheep, whose fleece pops off when he win or compete with one another. gets full, and Elly Fountain, where players More and more people are gaming and get sprayed with water. We’re also adding board games make it a social Tipping Point to our TV games collection, recreation.” as well as launching a whole new selection Coiledspring Games’ Rachel Wyatt of games under the new kids’ educational agrees that both adults and kids are games banner.” On the puzzle front, looking to board games as a great way Wasgij’s politically-charged Wasgij General to have some social fun. “More and Election campaign has drummed up plenty more board game cafes are popping of excitement. “This product is getting a up and people are really getting into great response from retail, media and our games,” she says. “My neighbours Wasgij fans so we expect momentum to recently signed off a party invite with build as we get nearer to Election day,” ‘bring some board games!’” says Laura. “We have also launched But she also thinks value is a big specific themed Falcon de Luxe products consideration, with consumers looking to help build incremental sales for to get more bang for their buck. independent accounts around key gifting “Games and puzzles offer great value periods such as Mothers Day, Fathers Day for money for consumers as they can and Sporting Events such as the Rugby be played time and time again, that is World Cup.” a huge strength. If a retailer sells a And Ben teases some new licensed customer a great game, they know products from Esdevium including “some that customer will return for another games from a galaxy far, far away.” No great game.” prizes for guessing what that means.

“

”

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GAMES & PUZZLES

In a spin JUMBO GAMES 01707 260436 www.jumbo.eu

Jumbo Games will be celebrating the return of the popular Game of Thrones with a brand new collectors edition puzzle box set. This special edition will feature 3 x 500 piece puzzles with classic images and maps from the series to piece together.

The company also have lots of products for you to get excited about including a fantastic range of Giant Foam Floor puzzles. Made from durable foam, the puzzles are easy to assemble giant tiles, which can all be joined together to create a super-sized play mat of youngsters’ favourite characters.

They are perfect for outdoor play due to the durability the foam and can be wiped clean from messy of th play. The Giant Foam Floor Puzzles currently available include Doc McStuffins, Micky Mouse Club House, Disney Planes 2 and Disney’s Jake and the Neverland Pirates. This year will see Jumbo adding Peppa Pig to the range, with Sophia the First and Frozen launching later this year. Contact your Jumbo sales representative for more information.

In June we will see the return of awardwinning Peppa Pig Tumble and Spin from Jumbo Games.

This fun electronic game is great fun and ideal for playing aying with friends.

As Peppa Pig spins to music she will provide provid instructions. Then you need to use your memory to find the card you need.

Tumble and Spin is a great children’s game that will keep your little one entertained for hours.

54

Going big on games and puzzles BIGJIGS TOYS 01303 250400 trade.bigjigstoys.co.uk It’s been 30 years since the beginning of Bigjigs Toys and still the company is as passionate as ever about wooden jigsaw puzzles and games!

New for 2015 are three colourful Arched Puzzles. Split into three levels, these quirky puzzles give youngsters the chance to develop their dexterity and problem-solving skills as they build a unique scene with each layer. The puzzle designs portray popular themes of dinosaurs, the home, and farm animals.

In the new Chunky Alphabet Puzzle, lowercase joins its upper case equivalent in the educational puzzle range with an age suitability rating of 18 months+.

Meanwhile, a host of beautifully-crafted wooden games join the games collection, each with a modern Bigjigs twist on design.

Animal Shut the Box, Ludo, Lotto, Four in a Row, Chinese Checkers, Code Breaker and the Stacking Tower Game all deliver fun and learning by the bucket load for youngsters wishing to test their problem solving skills.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Games on the go DKL 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk Distributed by DKL, Miniland Educational offers a collection of games and puzzles with various educational benefits. Brand new for 2015 is the On the Go collection of travel games. The collection features fun, fold away games which include magnetic pieces – perfect for playing on the go. The fun games have themes such as Crazy Faces and Crazy Zoo, offer low price points and there is an eye-catching CDU to accompany them.

Elsewhere in the range, there is the Pairs game, which is sure to keep children on their toes as they memorise pictures, numbers, animals and more. The game includes 12 different double-sided game cards across four fun categories. Furthermore there are Mini Puzzles, which come in three fantastic designs and are made from highly resistant and washable plastic. As a child’s first puzzle, it will stimulate speech and develop their attention span.

Also distributed by DKL, Wonderworld Wooden Toys’ wooden games and puzzles are created from high quality rubber wood and are beautifully finished with smooth, rounded edges.

Alongside their eco policy, Wonderworld are also committed to advocating a fair trade ethos.

The Wonderworld Fun Safari collection features the Safari Puzzle. Made of chunky wood, children aged 18 months and above can get to grips with problem solving, trial and error, and handeye coordination.

As with all DKL ranges, Wonderworld and Miniland Educational are supported by a full marketing programme.

Game on!

JOHN ADAMS

01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk

Well known for its established games and puzzles portfolio, John Adams is boosting its collection with some classic brands and innovative new products for 2015.

First up is family favourite Triominos. A triangular take on the traditional dominoes game, the new range will contain five new products under this heritage brand in its 50th anniversary year, across a range of price points. The range will be led by hero product Triominos Classic Deluxe, which will feature the recognisable triangular packaging, Triominos Excel, Triominos XXL, Triominos Travel and Triominos Compact.

The company will also be expanding its action games category with two new additions, Greedy Sheep and Elly Fountain.

Greedy Sheep has players take it in turns to feed grass to the sheep. He keeps eating and bleating until finally his woolly fleece flings off. In Elly Fountain players take it in turns to feed Elly and press her arm. If she sprays a player with water, they must then take a splash coin, and the first player to get three splash coins wins. Both products will be supported by TV advertising and PR. The popular Shopkins licence will also be joining the games collection. The Shopkins Puzzle Tin, Supermarket Scramble Game, Pop ‘n’ Race Game and Big Roll Bingo, will all be released in the autumn and will offer exclusive Shopkins collectable figures, for added play value.

Continuing to build on its successful TV games portfolio, John Adams will be adding Tipping Point to its collection this year. Based on the popular daytime ITV quiz show, the game will come complete with a table top electronic Tipping Point machine with moving base plate, as well as question cards and counters.

The Rummikub range has also been expanded for 2015. New introductions include Rummikub Xpress, Travel Rummikub, Rummikub Prime, Rummikub Junior and Rummikub Word.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

New for you DRUMOND PARK 01473 322000 www.drumondpark.com This year is set to be an exciting year for Vivid Group’s Drumond Park division. The UK’s leading independent games brand has an array of new games, from pre-school to adult, adding to its existing portfolio of perennial favourites.

The eagerly-anticipated LOGO Lite is poised to be one of the most important game launches this year. It’s not only a pack of hundreds of new cards, fully compatible with the number one best-selling game, LOGO, but also a brilliant new game concept in its own right.

Next up is the spine-tingling Rattle Me Bones, where players must creep up on the skeleton of a pirate reclining on his treasure to steal his possessions. But if he ‘feels’ your touch, he’ll leap up, rattling and shaking to scare away the thief.

First to the fridge wins! Avoiding the howling cat, tinkling bell and hooting owl, players of Don’t Wake Dad must creep past Dad as he snores in bed, trying to reach the fridge and win that delicious cake.

In OG on the Bog, the ogre has retired to his outhouse loo and players must carefully collect three of his loo rolls to win. Trigger a noise and if he farts, you lift a loo roll from the gnarled stick outside. If he shouts, your turn’s over. But if the bog explodes you lose all your loo rolls and have to start again.

What a gem THAMES AND KOSMOS 01580 212000 www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk Thames and Kosmos is joining the world of board games with a selection of popular Kosmos games throughout 2015. The offer, which includes games by the designer of Settlers of Catan, Klaus Teuber, and Reiner Knizia will be available from May. The games on offer from Thames and Kosmos include the fast-paced, best-selling game, Ubongo, where players must solve their puzzle, then shout ‘Ubongo!’ and randomly grab a gem from the bag, all before the timer runs out. The player with the most valuable gem collection at the end of nine rounds is the winner.

Slower-paced gaming comes from Lost Cities. The game, written by popular game author Reiner Knizia, comes in board game and card game formats.

Players send their explorers on an adventure to forgotten cities to earn points. The game encourages players to think strategically while preventing their opponents from getting ahead.

The winner is the player with the most points at the end of the game.

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Who dunnit?

RED HERRING GAMES 01472 348909 www.red-herring-games.com Red Herring Games, the games company specialising in murder mystery entertainment, will unveil fantastic new boxed games and downloadable games this May to expand its Crime Time selection.

After seven years of dinner party game success, fans of murder mystery will be delighted with the extended choice of boxed games, such as Death at the Distillery, Murder in the Med and Bump off at the Barbeque. The boxed games come with all the material and accessories required to host the best murder mystery night.

Also launching in a new format in May, are ten new downloadable games which will be available in compact mini boxes – ideal for gifts. In the boxes is a gift card that allows players to download murder mystery games such as Murder in the Dark, Death Actually, A Mysterious Mayan Murder and Take Down at the Tate from the website.

The Red Herring Games website will be updated in April ahead of these new launches and will continue to be the online one-stop shop for personalised murder mystery products, with a full array of props and accessories to elevate any murder mystery party.

57 toysnplaythings.co.uk

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ESDEVIUM GAMES 01420 593593 www.esdeviumgames.com Esdevium Games offers a fantastic range of gaming product aimed at everyone from pre-schoolers all the way up to adults. 2015 is set to be a landmark year, with a bigger choice of exciting titles than ever.

The range of popular Disney licensed games continues to expand this year with the introduction of several new titles, while retaining key sellers from 2014, including the Frozen 6-in-1 board game and the Disney Princess range.

Disney Pictopia is the perfect new family game and introduces the concept of Picture-Trivia. Players assess a group of pictures from a range of Disney properties and correctly answer from a number of different trivia questions.

Playing in teams, this is the cue for animated family discussion and a real test of each player’s Disney knowledge.

A further new addition is the Star Wars licensed version of the popular card game, Timeline. Star Wars Timeline takes cards depicting events from Episodes IV, V and VI, and players take it in turns to place a card on the chronological line with the aim of being the first to correctly place all their cards. The game is set for a Q3 launch and is a must for fans of the series of any age, in what will be a huge year for the property. There may well be additional Star Wars games available from Esdevium, with further announcements possibly due soon.

Some of Esdevium’s big focusses from 2014 will continue to command a central role in this year’s offering including the Dobble Card Game. TV advertising will start for Dobble from the middle of March and continue across the Easter holidays.

Hotel Tycoon was another sell-out family game for Esdevium last year. This year will see Esdevium keep the same winning formula of fantastic distribution supported by a wide-ranging marketing plan centred on TV advertising.

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60

It’s game on for Mattel whose top-sellers, according to NPD include the number three Family Game Scrabble and the number one Card Game UNO. They also have the top drawing game Pictionary and the latest addition, Bounce Off. The Mattel Games portfolio will be supported with an extensive, multi-platform marketing programme under the umbrella communication of ‘Play the Game’. The programme will drive demand and awareness of the games portfolio during the key sales period leading up to Christmas. The campaign will be supported with TV and radio advertising, social media, retail page takeovers, instore POS and PR outreach, including competitions and blogger reviews. Other Mattel favourites in the games portfolio include Pictionary, the game of quick sketches and crazy guesses, Bounce Off, the ultimate in head-tohead competition and family strategy game Blokus.

Lord of the rings MARBEL 0845 6000286 www.marbel.co.uk Hape Toys has launched a new range of games including the Ringer and the Colour Croquet.

Both games are excellently made and bring a fresh look to the old classics.

The Ringer consists of four pegs set in a solid-coloured base while Colour Croquet is a beautifully designed croquet set for kids.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use .

toysnplaythings.co.uk toysnplaythings.co.uk

Shuffling things up CARTAMUNDI 01268 515522 www.cartamundi.com Cartamundi’s Shuffle is a very successful combination of great games, famous brands and a digital extra. It allows families to enjoy their favourite board games or games based on hit brands in card game form, games like Shuffle Monopoly Deal (also available in Monopoly Junior and Monopoly Disney form) Shuffle Guess Who, Shuffle Pitureka, Shuffle Cluedo, Shuffle Battleship and Shuffle trumps.

All are fun and quick to play, usually taking around 15 minutes a game. But these and other games can also be enhanced by the Shuffle app, downloadable from the Apple and Google Play stores.

That means you can either play the card games as they are, bring characters and scenes to life, or introduce new gaming possibilities on a tablet or also a smartphone.

Gaming essentials TOY ESSENTIALS 01285 762039 www.toyessentials.com Toy Essentials now offers a bigger and better puzzle collection with the recent addition of the Classic World educational toy brand. Look out for a range of beautifully-crafted puzzles, which include Wild Animals, Gardens and a highly innovative Breakfast puzzle in which little ones can lay a colourful and appetising breakfast table with several pieces including toast, a fried egg and cutlery.

As with the entire range, Classic World puzzles are modelled from wood sourced only from sustainable forests.

Also on board at Toy Essentials is The Learning Journey, an award-winning manufacturer of children’s interactive educational products.

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Monkeying around BANANAGRAMS 020 7298 9500 (Winning Moves) www.bananagrams.com BANANAGRAMS is the anagram game that drives you bananas! Requiring no pencil, paper or board, BANANAGRAMS comes in a small portable bananashaped pouch and is perfect fun for all the family, at home or on the go. Created by a word game-obsessed family of three generations, BANANAGRAMS is a labour of love that has quickly become an international phenomenon, selling 6.5million copies in more than 30 countries worldwide.

A new version of the game, BANANAGRAMS WildTiles, was unveiled at London Toy Fair earlier this year. The new game includes six unique monkey WildTiles, putting an all-new spin on the original! Now, with BANANAGRAMS WildTiles, players can pick up a WildTile and play it as any letter, as they race to complete their grids. If they change their mind as the game progresses, just like every other tile in play, they can move their WildTile around as they rework their grid and it can become any letter they wish!

A firm favourite with celebrities including the cast of ITV’s Downton Abbey, Dame Judi Dench, Ellen Degeneres and Scarlett Johansson, BANANAGRAMS is also available in a series of foreign language editions. There’s even a larger version, Double BANANAGRAMS, for up to 16 players, and a supersized outdoor version, Jumbo BANANAGRAMS, the perfect word game to liven up outdoor family events.

Another word game in the Bananagrams range, ZIP-IT, will be relaunched with a fresh new look in 2015.

MARCH 2015

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61

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Catch the puzzle bug TOMY 020 8722 7300 www.tomy.com

Coming up trumps WINNING MOVES 0207 298 9507 www.winningmoves.co.uk Winning Moves is adding lots of exciting new products to its Top Trumps portfolio with some very high profile licences.

The much-anticipated Minions Movie will have its own Top Trumps Tin which will include cards based around everyone’s favourite little yellow creatures. Star Wars fans will also be in for a treat with the Star Wars Top Trumps Tin, which will also include characters from the hugely-anticipated Episode VII film to be released later in the year. The popular Shopkins will also be a new introduction to the Top Trumps portfolio this year. These new introductions will join the already strong performing Top Trumps range which includes Big Bang Theory, and the number one selling Top Trumps range, Disney’s Frozen.

The company’s Monopoly Collection sees four new introductions this year with iconic family favourites from the worlds of Disney and Nintendo. Gaming favourites Zelda and Assassin’s Creed are also among the new additions as well as science fiction favourite Doctor Who Regeneration.

The Trivial Pursuits offering will include the cult US sitcom Big Bang Theory alongside some nature classics such as Wildlife and Dinosaurs, all joining the Radio Times Trivial Pursuit game.

Winning Moves’ puzzle collection also continues to grow with current offerings including various titles within the Harry Potter range. Both 500 and 1000-piece products are available including Hogwarts, Quidditch, Magical Creatures and Philosopher’s Stone. Christmas themed puzzles are also proving to be strong performers with both the Christmas is Coming 500-piece puzzle and the Christmas Building a Snowman 1000-piece puzzle continuing to be popular. The range will also be joined by some new Top Trumps puzzles later in 2015.

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Classic Tomy toy Puzzle Bug makes a comeback for 2015, offering colourful puzzle fun that is easy for little ones to use.

There are three images to discover by either twisting the buttons or turning the pictures to complete each puzzle. Electronic sounds reward completion of a puzzle.

Winnie the Pooh and his friends are hiding inside the lovely Hide ‘n’ Shake Hunny Pots. Mix, match and shake each of the six characters, Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet, Rabbit and Roo, to hear a fun sound. It also includes colour matching and shape sorting fun and game. Packed in a handy storage case, it’s perfect to pop in a bag and take it wherever you go.

Puzzle it out JOHN CRANE LTD 01604 774 949 www.john-crane.co.uk Taxing young minds is easy with an array of games and puzzles from John Crane Ltd. The own brand Tidlo range of puzzles continues into 2015, including the Touch and Feel puzzles, Bugs, Safari and Farm with different textures to entertain little fingers and promote vocabulary.

The First Shape Matching Farm Yard and Insects are ideal for tiny tots because the pieces never get lost and the familiar and highly colourful characters are great for hand-eye coordination.

The Lift and Look Alphabet puzzle encourages early letter recognition. Learning to count? Then the Number Puzzle is what you need, helping to develop early number skills.

The new portfolio for 2015 includes a brand new range of puzzles with the Sevi range. This bright, colourful range introduces a small collection of magnetic puzzles including Magnetic Fashion, Circus, Face and Seasons. The magnetic puzzles are a great space saving game which encourage creativity. With each set you can create three different scenes and all the pieces store inside the case with a magnetic closing mechanism.

Sevi has also introduced new play case puzzles made from card and wood and designed to create a 3 dimensional world.

Choose from Savannah, Farm or Forest. Each play case comes with expanding sections and 15 wooden figures that neatly store inside. The Sevi 4-in-1 Puzzles continue from 2014, have four layers, four levels of difficulty and tell a fun, educational story.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Pre-school puzzler GALT TOYS 0161 428 9111 www.galttoys.com Galt Toys has added to its popular preschool range with four new puzzles, the three-piece Tray Puzzles, Jungle Faces and Farm Faces, Jungle long floor Puzzle and Sticker Puzzles - Dressing Up. The Tray Puzzles encourage early sorting and matching skills using two sets of five three-piece tray puzzles with friendly animal faces. The inner pieces are sorted by shape, colour and size to fit into each animal face tray. Suitable for children aged from two years, the puzzle pieces are chunky for little hands and the round shape is tactile and appealing for a young child to hold.

The Jungle Long Puzzle is an extra long floor puzzle featuring a jungle scene with different animals to talk about. Suitable for children aged from three years, the puzzle is designed to develop matching skills and stimulate discussion and language development.

Sticker Puzzles - Dressing Up is three fun sets of four 12-piece puzzles with reusable vinyl stickers. Suitable for children aged 3+, children make the colourful puzzles then add stickers to dress up the characters in fancy dress and complete the pictures.

Play sailing GIBSONS 020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Established in 1919, Gibsons is the oldest British-owned company in the puzzle and game industry, so it’s safe to say the team knows their stuff about products that really pack a punch in terms of entertainment value.

This year, Gibsons has released the brand new Sherlock Holmes the Card Game, where players join Sherlock and Watson to arrest the villains before they make their escape. Travel cards have players travelling to locations such as Scotland Yard and Baker Street, Information cards provide clues, and Thick Fog will confuse everything by shuffling all the players’ hands together. All cards are illustrated with pictures from the original material.

For little ones, the My World range sees two new additions this year. Ships Ahoy! is a pirate themed lotto game where children turn their coins over one by one to match the pictures on their ship. Memory skills and their best pirate impression of course are required to be very best pirate and to be the first to fill their ship with treasure! Dino Jigosawrus is a set of eight progressive puzzles, from the four-piece Pteranodon to the 16-piece Diplodocus.

All My World products are designed in conjunction with Play Specialist, Dr Amanda Gummer, and teach essential skills. They are made from 100% recycled board and manufactured in Britain.

For children ready to move on from pre-school, Gibsons has introduced a new jigsaw puzzle to their ever-popular Spot the Sillies range. There are a few silly things you might see on the box of Crazy Kids Club, but a sneaky few will only appear when the puzzle is put together and the challenge is to find all 10.

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First class fun FLAIR 0208 633 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Flair has an exciting portfolio for fun-filled, competitive games for the year ahead that include Squeaky Chicken, Robo Smasherz, Freaky Franky plus brand new wooden games for the return of Thomas and Friends.

Thomas and Friends makes a welcome return to the Flair portfolio with a fine collection of wooden games designed to promote educational family fun with much loved characters.

Perfect for children aged 18 months and above, this collection of seven quality wooden games includes both new and familiar play concepts that will enhance learning while playing. The Wooden Track Dominoes Game has 28 dual sided dominoes and four engines pieces. Children can either play the traditional game matching the images or turn the pieces over to create a wooden train track for an altogether different experience.

The range also includes Shape Sorters, Tic-Tac-Toe, and a Wooden Clock Game with 12 double-sided selfcorrecting puzzle pieces, two jumbo time dice and a clock stand. Learning to tell the time has never been so much fun. Better hand-eye coordination is the name of the game when it comes to the Hammer and Peg and Sorting Box toys. This much needed early skill will be enhanced as they learn to tap the pegs as they follow the track.

There will be loads of family fun to be had with Squeaky Chicken, which features a nervous chicken protecting her eggs. The aim is to take as many eggs as you can from the coop, without waking the snoozing chicken. Players take turns stealing eggs, but every time an egg is gained the chicken will squeak.

But players need to be aware - when the chicken’s favourite egg gets taken, the chicken will jump up and squawk!

Robo Smasherz is a game for two players and includes a pair of InfraRed controlled robots that fight in the Ultimate Robot Championship! This action packed game sees two heavy weight robo fighters battling it out in the main event for the URC World Heavyweight Championship. Freaky Franky is a gruesome game of strength and features a large stretchable Frankenstein figure. For children aged 5–7 the aim is to stretch Franky’s flexible arms until his eyes pop out in the shortest time possible.

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Pre-school BrainBoxes New Range

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Brain game GREEN BOARD GAMES 01494 538999 www.greenboardgames.com ames.com With increasing demand mand for the Green Board d Games range, it looks ks as if 2015 is set to be the most exciting yet. et.

With its fantastic portfolio, GBG has a raft of product set to entertain the whole e family, including further development nt of the awardwinning BrainBox range. Recently launched at The London Toy Fair, GBG BG introduces BrainBox x Sport, Science, Space, ce, On the Farm and Cities of the World.. And GBG CEO Keith Grafham is ‘Mr Happy’ having recently ently secured the rights to produce a Mr Men BrainBox, due to launch later this year. ar.

Extending the BrainBox phenomenon further, GBG owner Gary Wyatt has developed a selection of BrainBox Pre-school ol Games, including First Numbers, Firstt Letters and First Colours, creating BrainBox appeal for or the under-fives.

David Harms, GBG G Marketing Executive ve is intent on driving in-store initiatives. nittiatives. He says: “To support our expanding range nge we intend to offer further rther marketing support rt by working with our customers to help build on existing consumer er awareness in a way that suits specific business needs. It is vitally y important for us to collaborate and leverage opportunity to maintain growth and support sales!” s!”

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Chick, chick, chick, boom!

COILEDSPRING GAMES COI www www.coiledspring.co.uk 020 3301 1160 Coiledspring Games’ range of Schmidt puzzles has grown, Coile with images from exciting new artists. Phil Koch’s Horizons is photographic journey through the landscapes of Wisconsin. a pho Alan Shapiro captures the beautiful, powerful and poignant, with his macro photography of flowers in bloom. Those who appreciate the arty jigsaw will enjoy Jon Rattenbury’s contribution, best known for his use of vibrant colours, light contr and his h portrayal of nature’s awe inspiring beauty. For the fantasy and science fiction fans, the work of Chris Saunders fanta brings a mind-altering element to the collection, with his bring approach inspired by a near death experience that left him appr compelled to create abstract images. comp Also new for this year, Chickyboom is a welcome addition Als to the th growing pre-school games sector. Chickyboom is a wooden game of balance and counting that fun, sustainable s hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills will develop d through balancing and weight assessment. Chickyboom will be throu followed later this year with Pengoloo, also from Blue Orange, fo ollow who plant two trees for every one used in creating their wh games. ga Arriving early due to high demand, March sees the first copies of original game Lift It!, a fun building game in which co players attempt to construct the shapes depicted on the cards. pl There’s a set time limit, and where you land on the board will Th determine your method of construction – will players use the de crane with their hand, or attach it to their head? cr Just in time for the fifth series of Game of Thrones, Coiledspring Games brings the island of Westeros to life - not Co in 3D, but 4D. Fans of the series can immerse themselves in building each kingdom, uniting Westeros from the Bay of Ice bu to o the Narrow Sea.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Mega fun CLEMENTONI 020 3206 1397 www.clementoni.com Clementoni launches a range of Mega 7-in-1 games kits from May 2015. With a choice from Disney favourites or Frozen, the cleverly assembled sets enable extensive and progressive play options for children from three years and up. The girls’ set features Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First and Minnie Mouse. The boys’ kit features Monsters University, Cars and Finding Nemo, while the Frozen set features all the favourite characters from the movie.

Within each handy box, there are 30-piece, 48-piece and 60-piece puzzles to choose from, a six-cube 3D puzzle with different images to build, memo and domino games to enjoy

and quiz z cards with up to 200 questions ns with an electronic tronic pen to reveal the answers! wers!

The seven games which all come in one useful box with a handle, feature the favourite Disney and Frozen characters and will keep children occupied and learning for hours.

They will also encourage children to develop dexterity, observation and association skills.

Class act ORCHARD TOYS 01953 859525 www.orchardtoys.com And the Oscar goes to Can You Guess?, the action-packed performance game from Orchard Toys.

In Can You Guess? players make sounds and perform actions, or both, which other players have to guess.

Confident children can show off their acting skills, while those who are a little more shy will grow more comfortable being the centre of attention.

The game can be played with 3-4 players or teams, and is suitable for children from as young as four. But with grandparents happily revealing their inner toddler, Can You Guess? really is a game for the whole family.

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Fair game HASBRO 02085691234 Hasbro have some great games to engage all the family. The iconic monopoly is celebrating its 80th anniversary and a special edition has been released.

With a retro gameboard and cards, the game takes you back to when it all began, but you still have to build your houses and hotels and see if you can bankrupt everyone else.

Jenga Quake is another classic that combines friends, skill, suspense, laughter, and maybe a little luck?

Croc Dentist is hilarious Crocodile Dentist game that challenges you to watch out for Silly Jock Croc’s sore tooth. When you press down on a tooth, he’ll chomp if it’s sore! Also in the Hasbro stable are Loopin’ Louie, Mashin’ Max Guess Who Extra and Twister Moves Hip Hop Spots.

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No pencil. No paper. No board.

JUST SPEED! Discover the word game phenomenon loved by millions worldwide

+44 (0) 207 298 9500 sales@winningmoves.co.uk www.bananagrams.com

Coiledspring Games @coiledspring

New games and puzzles for 2015

Chickyboom

Lift it!

Schmidt

Game of Thrones 4D

Fun preschool balance game

Early arrival due to high demand

Exciting new artists

Game of Thrones series 5 starts April 2015

www.coiledspring.co.uk Call 020 3301 1160 for more information

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

As seen on TV GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Golden Bear focuses on top TV hits for their new games and puzzles, including Peppa Pig, Something Special and CBeebies Bugbies.

The new Peppa Pig Glitter Dominoes is a fun game to help develop children’s recognition and manual dexterity skills. Based on the traditional game of dominoes, each player takes turns to match the pictures of key Peppa Pig characters with the winner being the first to place down all their dominoes. A fun and engaging game, the Peppa Pig Glitter Dominoes come in a wooden storage box for safekeeping.

Based on the popular Something Special characters, the Mr Tumble and Friends Wooden Puzzle includes six chunky wooden pieces each with a coloured peg to help pick up the pieces.

Developing recognition skills, dexterity and hand-eye coordination, this puzzle is bright and colourful and features different colours behind each shape to match the pegs. The new Wooden Dress Up Mr Tumble gets little ones mixing and matching. An entertaining and fun puzzle, children can create their favourite interchangeable Something Special characters.

Golden Bear’s CBeebies Bugbies range of toys includes the Toppling Bugbies.

Consisting of 30 stackable blocks each one features an iconic character from the CBeebies channel. With three different combinations of play, children aged 3+ simply roll the dice and take it in turns to remove the blocks until the Bugbies tower comes tumbling down.

Toppling Bugbies also teaches pre-schoolers about cause and effect, encourages dexterity and promotes social play.

Reach your goals LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819386 www.LearningResources.co.uk Dribble, tackle and pass across the pitch in Top of the Tables, the unique football-themed times tables game.

Focusing on individual times tables from two to 12, this skill-based board game can be kicked up to ‘premier league’ to include 13 and 14 times tables, too. Place a number card in the stadium, put the football players in position and take turns spinning the spinner to create an equation.

Go wild GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk Great Gizmos offers a huge variety of games and puzzles for children from its eco-friendly wooden toy range Plan Toys and brand new animal conservationist range, WWF, that will help develop fine motor and communication skills.

New for spring is a range of games and puzzles from WWF that incorporate game play with beautiful wildlife photography.

The Miombo Tumble Tower is made from FSC wood from well-managed forests and features patterns from Africa’s Miombo woodlands including a giraffe, zebra and cheetah.

For puzzles to keep kids entertained for hours, the WWF 1,000 Piece Puzzles are available in eight themes such as Owls, Marine, and Tiger. Each puzzle is made of thick cardboard and features striking and engaging images that kids and adults will love to recreate.

For 2015 Plan Toys introduces the classic game of four-in-a-row in a monkey theme. Monkeys in a Row has children place the correct coloured monkey face in order. This fabulous new game will help develop children’s strategic and logical thinking.

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Le

arn

un!

Fun learning games and jigsaws

ing Made F

For sales contact your local rep/agent or contact the sales admin team on

01953 859525/859530

sales@orchardtoys.com

TECHNICAL COLUMN BUREAU VERITAS

Focus on the infant

“

Children under 3 years are particularly vulnerable to the potential hazards presented while playing with toys

”

Malcolm Horner, Toy Technical Consultant, Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services tells all about the specific safety requirements for baby and pre-school toys. Read on to find out about this crucial sector.

Soft-filled toys: Fillings should not contain hard or sharp contaminants and seams must not open up after a tension test.

Plastic sheeting: Plastic sheeting of an area “The applicable requirements and tests in the Toy Safety Directive and the harmonised standards will depend upon the age of child for whom a toy is intended. It is therefore necessary for a manufacturer to assign an appropriate age grade to a toy, after which a safety assessment and applicable testing can be carried out. (You may recall that I have covered age grading in a previous technical column). The assessment and tests are usually applied to toys within the following age grade categories:

greater than 100 mm x 100 mm must not be too thin.

Cords: These must not present a risk of strangulation and therefore, depending upon the type of toy and the cord, there are requirements with respect to length, perimeter, attachments, loops, nooses and breakaway devices.

Liquid-filled toys: These are subject to a • Toys for children under 10 months • Toys for children under 18 months • Toys for children under 36 months

puncture test.

Electrically-driven ride-on toys: Must have a maximum design speed.

• Toys for children under 6 years • Toys for children of 6 years and over Children under three years are particularly vulnerable to the potential hazards presented while playing with toys.

In particular, it is expected that this group of children will place toys in their mouth as part of their natural development and therefore the Toy Safety Directive and EN 71 Part 1 “Mechanical and physical properties” includes specific test requirements for toys for children under 36 months. The requirements are aimed at reducing the risks presented by ingestion, inhalation, choking and strangulation:

Glass and porcelain: Must not be used.

Shape and size: For children who are too young to sit up unaided, these toys must be of such a size and shape so that they do not have any parts that protrude beyond a specified gauge.

Monofilament fibres attached to a fabric base: If longer than 50 mm, the toy must carry a warning.

Small parts: There should be no parts, or parts which

Small balls: These must not pass through a specified template.

become detached after the “use and abuse” tests, which fit wholly within the specified small parts cylinder.

Play figures: Such figures with a rounded, spherical or hemispherical end, with a tapered neck attached to a cylindrical shape and with an overall length not exceeding 64 mm be designed such that the rounded end does not protrude past the base of the specified template

Hemispheric-shaped toys: Depending upon the size of the opening and the volume and depth, these toys must be designed such that a vacuum cannot be formed around the child’s mouth and nose. This is usually achieved by the provision of small holes or by a contoured outer rim.

Suction cups: These must not pass through the specified template.

If you require any further details of any of the above, please contact the Bureau Veritas team who will be pleased to assist.

Bvsales@uk.bureauveritas.com 01925 854 360 www.bureauveritas.co.uk/cps 72

Straps intended to be worn around the neck: If these create a fixed loop they must have a breakaway feature.

Naturally, the above is only a short summary of the applicable requirements. Full details can be found in the actual standard.”

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REVIEW

HONG KONG LICENSING SHOW

Hong Kong calling...

Fact File: •

The 13th annual Hong Kong Licensing Show took place recently and the Asian market was buzzing with new brands and innovative thinking, TnP takes a look

T

he Hong Kong Licensing Show drew record attendance for its 13th edition. The 2015 show took place in January with nearly 20,000 visitors walking the hallowed halls of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The majority of visitors from outside Hong Kong came from China with a healthy percentage coming from the European market.

The Far Eastern licensing industry is certainly not one to be ignored.

Asian manufacturing a key component in the production of global licensed consumer goods, and the region most definitely has its finger on the licensing and production pulse.

But most interestingly, its own cultural influences play a key part in what makes a licence work.

And while the show gives visitors the chance to see the latest licences, it also offers a unique opportunity to check out Asian properties that aren’t represented at similar shows overseas.

“

The Far Eastern licensing industry is certainly not one to ignore.

Asian manufacturing a key component in the production of global licensed consumer goods

”

Next year’s dates…

The dates for 2016's Hong Kong Licensing Show have already been confirmed. The show will run from Monday 11 to Wednesday 13 January, 2016 and will once again take place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

MARCH 2015

The show was broken into several categories – each representing a key component in modern licensing. This year, visitors were able to peruse halls packed with categories such as animation and character, art and design, celebrity and entertainment, collegiate, corporate brands, fashion and lifestyle and sports.

Attracting licensors, agents, brand owners, digital entertainment specialists, designers, marketeers, consultants and service providers, organisers say the show’s aim is to assist licensors and agents as they search for partners to expand their regional licensing network in Asia – with China being a particular focus.

Another aim of the show is to source and promote new properties which may not yet have made it to the US or Europe.

This year’s show was a big success across the board, with exhibitors reporting that they either achieved or far exceeded their objectives of generating business and establishing new contacts.

A highlight of the event is the Asian Licensing Conference – the largest event of its kind in Asia.

The conference offers visitors the chance to sit in on seminars and talks with industry leading brand owners and licensing professionals.

A variety of topics are covered

• • •

More than 19,500 visitors attended 238 exhibitors 19,741 visitors Over 700 brands & properties

across the two-day conference as speakers share insights into areas such as brand extension, entertainment licensing and retail distribution to name just a few.

More than meets the eye…

Visitors to the show are also able to take advantage of several other trade shows, held concurrently with the HKILS. The Hong Kong Toy & Games Fair in particular brings the best in character and kids’ entertainment properties to life, with thousands of toys and consumer products on show. With over 800 exhibitors from Hong Kong and 1,000 from outside Hong Kong, there’s a real opportunity for new business, with a good mix of home-grown and foreign exhibitors.

While many from Europe and the US will be looking for new product to buy at the Toy & Games Fair, there are also plenty of opportunities for companies to sell into these new markets overseas. A number of European exhibitors this year were continuing to look for Asian distributors and partners to gain a real foothold in these emerging markets, as well as showcasing to the thousands of buyers.

Similarly, the HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and Hong Kong International Stationery Fair are held alongside the HKILS, where visitors can find fresh products and opportunities for their respective markets.

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FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Get interactive Interactive toys are becoming ever more sophisticated. But what exactly are they and how are they different to tech toys of the past?

C

hildren have always imagined that their toys are alive. Talking to teddies and looking after a favourite doll are all part of growing up but, as kids grow older, the magic eventually wears off.

What if toys actually did react and talk back though?

Enter the stellar line-up of interactive and talking toys, a new wave of hyperconnected playthings where birds react to the flock Guy Orr, Mookie around them, augmented reality (AR) breathes digital life into physical games and the internet gives a robot its brain.

Last year, Vivid launched My Friend Cayla, an internetconnected doll that, among other features, reacts to kids’ questions and searches the web for the perfect answer. It’s similar to voice enabled search functions Silverlit now found on most smartphones, but with ageappropriate results.

Cayla was a hit, exceeding Vivid’s high expectations, and its popularity has led to a wider range of interactive toys built upon the same blueprint. Vivid has three new lines joining Cayla later this year; i-Que, My Friend Freddy Bear and Real FX. Real FX is a slot-less track racing system that harnesses artificial intelligence to simulate a second player for human vs AI head-to-head races.

Mookie’s Pebli Toy uses a similar concept, elegantly exploiting technology to bring new experiences to traditional play patterns.

“

This new wave of toys are using their interactive nature to provide extra content and play value to children

”

74

Guy Orr, Mookie MD explains the idea behind it: “Pebli Town uses traditional play pieces and a physical play board that interact with a tablet to bring the toy to life.

“This new wave of toys is using their interactive nature to provide extra content and play value to children, that they haven’t in the past. The tablet and app interaction is key with Pebli as children feel that they are getting a tech based experience.”

But it’s not just the larger playsets and feature toys that are getting in on the action. Silverlit’s Digibirds collectables interact with both children and each other.

“We launched Digibirds midway through 2014 and were completely overwhelmed by the rate of sale and the demand from both girls and boys,” says Silverlit’s Tom Mullen.

“They also connect with the Digibirds website, unlocking new games and rewards such as extra tunes for the birds to sing.”

So as interactive toys continue to deliver the wow factor with the magic of technology, now is the perfect chance to get yourself connected and offer consumers what they’ve always wanted, a toy that really does come to life.

Mookie

We asked: What is the future for interactive toys?

“We’ve seen already that other products are using cloud technology to facilitate interactivity and there is no reason why this area shouldn’t keep growing. Even very traditional play patterns can be enhanced by technology while still keeping their core values at heart.”

Kerry Paternoster, Vivid “Through our development research it is evident that children of a much younger age are using technology while they play. Parents are becoming more relaxed with the idea of children playing with tablets. Despite this acceptance we are very aware that parents still want to see the benefits of this changing play pattern, including developing key educational skills.”

Guy Orr, Mookie “As children encounter technology at ever earlier ages they almost demand tech toys. I am sure this will be a growing area in the coming years.”

Tom Mullen, Silverlit

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FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Child’s play

Hop aboard the Dinosaur Train TOMY 02087227300 www.tomy.com Based on the characters from Jim Henson’s hit television series on Nick Jr, the TOMY Dinosaur Train range brings the dinosaurs to life. The Dinosaur Train range includes interactive dinosaurs, which feature SmartTalk technology, so favourite Dinosaur Train characters leap into action. Get the gang together to hear them chat, sing and roar, as well as relaying cool dino-data - simply press their buttons to get the fun started. New for 2015 is InterAction Hank Ankylosaurus. Watch his tail spin as he shows off his incredible Dinoball skills. Press Hank to hear him interact with the rest of the gang using 50 new sounds and phrases.

ZAPF CREATION 0845 0533 333 www.zapf-creation.co.uk

Sweet sounds CHARACTER OPTIONS 01616339800 www.character-online.com Character Options is to add to its award-winning interactive pets portfolios of Teksta and Little Live Pets while the firm’s Peppa Pig collection will have a new talking plush that’s eager to tell everyone a story. In the world of youth electronics the award winning Teksta brand will have a sting in its tail this autumn contrasting perfectly with the delightful Teksta Newborns that launched this spring! Little Live Pets captured kids’ hearts in 2014 and were joined in spring by new birds and sparkling butterflies, plus a delightful trio of Tweet Talking Owl and Babies.

These adorable owl families love to care and share.

Zapf Creation’s Baby Annabell brand will be adding the new Baby Annabell Potty accessory to its portfolio. When used with Baby Annabell, the interactive accessory will play applause and realistic potty sounds, alongside a charming Baby Annabell jingle.

The potty features a pink and white signature sheep design and is set to carry on the Baby Annabell nurturing theme.

Welcome to Pebli Town MOOKIE 01525 722722 www.mookie-toys.co.uk The launch of the interactive pre-school toy Pebli Town is drawing closer and Mookie is preparing for the biggest product launch in its history. Pebli Town is a multi-sensory connected pre-school toy and is set to successfully bridge the gap between physical and virtual toys.

Pebli Town had a hugely successful showcase at the London and Nuremberg Toy Fairs, with the toy reviewing well with buyers and international distributors alike. Pebli is developed to help build children’s problem solving skills, hand-eye coordination, creativity and imagination as well as enforcing their vocabulary skills, focus and attention through four modes of play.

Pebli Town will be launching this July and Mookie is set to ensure that every family in the country knows about it. The launch will be supported by Mookie’s biggest yet marketing campaign consisting of 40 and 20 second TV commercials with over 1300 TVRs, a celebrity endorsement, launch event, a full PR campaign, in store support, online targeted advertising and much more.

Mookie will also be launching the Pebli Safari expansion pack in conjunction with Pebli Town.

Pebli Safari is the first in a range of planned expansion packs created by Mookie with Pebli Garage launching spring/summer 2016. In addition, Mookie is working with some top licences

76

as it aims to introduce children’s favourite characters to the world of Pebli. This is all part of a focused strategy by the company to offer a huge amount play value for kids and allow parents to buy into the Pebli range.

The physical-virtual crossover world of Pebli will sit in Mookie’s new Toys Alive brand as Mookie aims to make a key impression in the interactive toy market.

This is all part of a focus by Mookie to become more of an all-year company rather than an outdoor specialist. Story Stars, the connected story telling night light plush will also be sitting under the Toys Alive range.

Story Stars was received extremely positively at the Toy Fairs and is set to launch August 2015. It will be supported with over 750 TVRs and a full PR campaign.

toysnplaythings.co.uk

FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Meet the DigiFriends

Heroes of the small screen

SILVERLIT

GOLDEN BEAR

01923 606147 www.silverlit.com Following on from the success of last year’s interactive collectable hit, DigiBirds, Silverlit is launching an exciting new range of DigiFriends.

The first new DigiFriend is DigiChicks - six colorful, chirping characters that truly complement DigiBirds. These chicks will interact with every product in the Digi range, including the original DigiBirds, to sing and move in synchronicity. They will be available instore in March.

DigiPenguins, a cool range of six individual birds, plus a group of three that come with their very own igloo, will follow DigiChicks. As with every DigiFriends release they will chime in and dance with DigiChicks and Birds.

Later in the year DigiOwls join the all-singing, all-dancing flock. DigiOwls are six stunningly detailed owls with LED eyes, joined again by a three pack that comes complete with an owl tree house.

The last new addition this year will bring the prehistoric to the world of DigiFriends with DigiDinos. Three roarsome, friendly individual dinos are joined by a group of three that come with their own habitat playset. And, for something extra special, Silverlit will launch a DigiDinos mast playset.

DigiDinos come complete with a brand new feature in the form of built-in recording capabilities, which allows kids to talk to their new friends and hear the recording in dino talk.

A full TV and marketing plan is in place to support each successive wave with its own TV campaign and advertising.

36 3 6

01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.co.uk uk Golden Bear’s Talking Toodloo dloo and Talking GreatBigHoo both say recognisable phrases and sounds from the brand d new CBeebies TV series Twirlywoos when their tummies are pressed, and are made from soft textured fabric. The Twirly Top Toodloo is made from tactile fabrics and features a spinning top, signature phrases, sounds unds and poseable arms. Hey Duggee is another CBeebies pre-school series enjoying the Golden Bear treatment.

The new Woof Woof Duggee Soft Toy features the loveable dog’s four interactive badges, each featuring a different play pattern. Hey Duggee Talking Squirrel Soft Toys come with a child-safe feature badge and say signature phrases with a gentle squeeze. For 2015, Golden Bear has unveiled a range of sensory toys based on the ever-popular Mr Tumble and his friends, focusing on five key learning elements to encourage touch, sound recognition, light, texture and dexterity. A new size Talking Mr Tumble includes fun sounds and phrases from the show, while the Textured Mr Tumble with Fun Sounds has lots to engage children and stimulate senses. Characters from CBeebies’ In the Night Garden are brought to life with the Peek-a-Boo Igglepiggle and Talking Tombliboos.

Write on!

LEAPFROG 01895 202840 www.leapfrog.co.uk

More than the bear necessities CLEMENTONI 020 3206 1397 www.clementoni.com

LeapPad3 is the fastest, highestperformance tablet ever from LeapFrog. Aimed at three to nine year olds, LeapPad3 is kid-smart, kid-safe and kid-tough, and is designed to provide children with the perfect combination of performance, durability and safety in their first tablet. LeapPad3 provides access to LeapFrog’s award-winning Learning Library of over 800 educator-approved games, apps, eBooks, and more.

Clementoni launches exciting new interactive toys to the Baby ne Clementoni range this summer.

Cl Each product will bring educational Ea and developmental benefits for an pre-school children while they have pr endless fun. en Tommy the Storyteller Bear is an exciting interactive infant toy, hitting shelves this July. He is a hit speaking bear who transforms into sp fun characters and tells stories. fu

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FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Bringing toys to life

Talk the talk CHICCO 01623 750870 www.chicco.co.uk

FLAIR 0208 643 0320 www.flairplc. co.uk Flair introduces some brand-new additions to the interactive toy portfolio with everyone’s favourite Doc and baby monster Xeno, plus a new licensed addition that will make you feel right at Home!

Everyone’s favourite cheeky, baby monster Xeno enters 2015 with a new neon colour. Xeno will really interact and play with kids and has over 10 emotions including happy, sad and hungry, plus more than 40 different eye expressions on his LCD-based graphic eyes.

Xeno sings, dances and will play five minigames for enhanced interactivity. There is a free app to play additional games too.

The big news for 2015 is a new addition to the Xeno family – Xeno Koopies.

These cheeky little monsters interact and play with kids. Squeeze their cheeks or pull their ears and tails to see them react. Their eyes glow in the dark and they feature six touch sensors with over 70 unusual sound settings to discover. They can interact with each other and the original Xeno figures, and once again have a free app for more fun.

Later this year comes the Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Interactive Doll, dressed in her favourite veterinary outfit. She will use the magnifying glass, brush and stethoscope to cure Findo and Squibbles’ boo boos. Children can have lots of fun with the Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Interactive Findo, the toy dog whose favourite activity is fetching bones. Findo barks when his head is brushed and picks up his bone with his magnetic nose! Attach the lead to Findo and take him for a walk.

The new DreamWorks Movie Home is now in cinemas. It focuses on the relationship between a banished alien Boov named Oh and a young girl named Tip. To echo the film, Flair’s animated Dancing Plush Oh dances to three different pieces of music while saying four funny and recognisable phrases from the film. To continue the play, Flair’s Home Talking Plush stand at 22cm tall and look just like the characters from the film. There are three styles to collect, Oh, Captain Smek and Pig, who each say individual phrases or sounds from the film.

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Musical Tales Singing Bear is the latest addition to Chicco’s range of bilingual toys.

Suitable from 12 months, the talking and interactive bear comes with five story cards that take kids on a different interactive adventure to the countryside, the seaside or even on an aeroplane.

Each card has three different buttons which prompts the bear to speak a range of phrases in both English and French. At the bottom of the card is the storyteller button, which offers an engaging story.

The bear also sings four different songs and melodies by pressing its hands and feet, including nursery rhymes and a parts of the body song.

Movie magic UNDERGROUND TOYS 01708 372727 www.underground-toys.com

It’s all app-ening VIVID 01483449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Vivid has a stellar line-up of interactive toys for 2015.

My Friend Freddy Bear with his In-app activities which develop with the child, and when not connected to a smart device Freddy Bear will talk when he’s cuddled. The i-Que Interactive Robot comes complete with jokes and fart noises. Download the app, connect via Bluetooth and explore i-Que’s games, fun facts and quizzes. My Friend Cayla has a new outfit and updated app to allow personalisation. My Friend Cayla Princess is brand new with extra princess-themed app content.

Dave the Funky Monkey has a gesture or sound for every occasion - burp, laugh, scratch, wave, cry or even break wind!

Activated by a pocket-sized remote control, there are four modes with over 30 behaviours. How will Dave behave? You decide!

Underground Toys continues to delight with its ever-expanding variation of talking plush toys.

The Star Wars Talking Plush range is available in 4”, 9” and 15” and 24” and features Chewbacca, Yoda, R2-D2 and Darth Vader.

Also look out for the new premium animatronic plush toys.

These include a 15” animated Roar & Rage Chewbacca which moves and roars and a 16” Lightsaber Battle Yoda, fully equipped with a glowing lightsaber, sound and motion. Underground will also launch a talking plush range for the hotly-awaited Avengers: Age of Ultron film. Characters will include Hulk, Captain America, Iron Man and Thor available in 4”, 9” and 15” sizes. Alongside the release of TED 2, Underground Toys has been busy expanding its range to include TED as a fully animatronic plush toy!

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FEATURE TRAINS

Full steam ahead Train sets are a classic category within toys. Beloved by children everywhere, there is just no stopping them

I

f you catch the train set bug early on in life, chances are you’ll be hooked forever. All you have to do is stroll through Hall 4A in Nuremberg, the model railways and accessories hall, to see grown men and women practically salivating over the latest advances in high-end train sets to understand that really, this category is ageless.

But it is also the epitome of a traditional toy and suppliers walk an interesting line when it comes to product development as they strive to maintain the traditional appeal while keeping things fresh.

When asked if their train products are on track for a good year, Liz Ireland of Bigjigs Toys told us: “With 13 new SKUs planned and our new Dino and Farm ranges topping the charts in our new products portfolio, for Bigjigs Rail, it’s full steam ahead!

As part of our 30th anniversary celebrations we’ve also got big plans for a special Bigjigs Rail retailer event this summer, which will be a great opportunity for retailers to bolster wooden railway sales.”

John Crane’s MD Jonathan Thorpe said the

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“

With 13 new SKUs planned and our new Dino and Farm ranges topping the charts in our new products portfolio, for Bigjigs Rail, it’s full steam ahead!”

Liz Ireland, Bigjigs

” John Crane

company anticipates “good things” for its Tidlo line with eight new products being added to the All Aboard range, from the classic figure of eight chug along train sets to roll out play mats and train tables to give inspiring conductors a place to work.

In terms of performance, Liz says that for Bigjigs, rail sets are “consistently one of our best sellers during Q4… we also have a variety of price points on offer, so there’s a train set to suit every budget.”

Liz says that in the US, the Bigjigs Rail Fairy Range is the best performing line.

For John Crane, the rail sets continue to perform well for the Tidlo brand, says Jonathan. “This year we have expanded the selection of the All Aboard range after both the vehicle and train assortments proved extremely popular and sold well last year, from the reaction we have had so far the rest of the range is set to steam ahead and be no different.”

But at the end of the day, a train set is just a train set, it can’t compete with edgier toys – right? Wrong, say our suppliers. In fact, they say train sets don’t need to compete.

“Traditional toys like train sets don’t need to compete, they will always be sought after and we are seeing demand increase,” says John, “But with the All Aboard range selling vehicles and trains to retailers at 99p it is obvious that they will sell.”

And Bigjigs agree, with Liz pointing out: “Wooden train sets will always have a place in the toy market because they offer a counterbalance to the ever-growing pool of tech-based toys available today. They hold their own because of their unique qualities as a more traditional toy with a timeless nature, durability and

What the kids think…

Latimer, aged three from Essex, tells us about why he loves trains: “My best trains are Thomas, Gordon and Stepney. They are all friends from Thomas on the island of Sodor. I like Sodor a lot. I have a Thomas which I use the remote control - it›s my little brother’s but I play with it. Sometimes I can’t find it when it goes under the cupboard. I like making a massive train track so all my trains can go around and around and stop at the stations, but sometimes my brother tries to break the track.

My daddy helps me make the track because it is too hard for my mummy to do. I like wooden tracks the best and I like it when my trains stick (he means magnetised!) together and I can make one long train with all the engines.”

unlimited creative play value. Consumers appreciate qualities such as these and know that purchasing a wooden train set is money well spent.”

Given that trains and their accessories are such a strong category for those it in, it is safe to say it is full steam ahead.

toysnplaythings.

New rolling stock, rail accessories and complete sets are in stock and ready to order.

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trade.bigjigstoys.co.uk

bigjigstoys

@bigjigstoys

bigjigstoysltd

FEATURE TRAINS

All aboard!

JOHN CRANE 01604 774 949 www.john-crane.co.uk All Aboard is a stunning collection of wooden trains and accessories produced

by Canadian brand Battat. The range is new to John Crane Ltd for 2015 and includes everything you need to get your train collection on track.

From a selection of 24 wooden vehicles including, aeroplanes, cars, construction and emergency vehicles or train engine and carriage assortments through to 102-piece deluxe wooden train sets, the train is coming so you better get your tickets! The set includes a track, two trains complete with carriages, vehicles, buildings, traffic signs and scenery.

The roll-out play mat is soft with colourful graphics, rolls away and ties together to keep it secure. Or choose the wooden train table and give aspiring conductors a place to work.

The wooden travel train case means you can open it, take out your trains and let the fun begin, anywhere.

The range also includes train track packs so there is no limit to the size of railway you can build, as well as an RC locomotive and car which comes with forward and reverse motion, the fun train sounds and image projecting lights.

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Beep, beep!

GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk Little ones can now create a whole host of wooden fun with great train sets that allow them to build and play using eco-friendly wooden blocks, bridges and vehicles. What’s more all sets interconnect so children can build a world of PlanToys railways from Great Gizmos. The Railway Set features lots of railway track as well as a three carriage train, signs and signals, plus foliage for a more realistic feel, while the Road & Rail Set includes traffic lights, miniature houses, a car and truck plus a flyover and real working bridge. PlanToys also has a vast array of trains that can be used on the railway networks. The Car Carrier Train features low level carriers that will hold the little red car and the blue pick-up truck, whilst the more robust Crane Train includes a real working crane to help take building materials to sites. Also available are the Fuel Train, Cargo Train and Recycling Train. For further play, children can add a Turntable to their rail systems to help choose the correct journey for your train.

Right on track BIGJIGS 01303250400 www.bigjigstoys.com The fantastic new Dino Range and Farm Range join Bigjigs Rail for 2015. Both lines boast the new-style Bigjigs Rail packaging and are sure to be extremely hot sellers this year. Building upon the popularity of miniature wooden railway, they extend the scope for imaginative play with a design based on two favourite themes among preschoolers.

Bigjigs Rail Dino Range combines a winning combination of trains and dinosaurs. The wonderfully detailed Dino Train, Ribcage Tunnel, Bronto Rise, Dino Crane and T-Rex Tunnel are all rail accessories available to add a new dimension to an existing wooden railway or extend the 49-piece Dinosaur Train Set. The 44-piece Farm Train Set offers railway adventures in a rural setting at an affordable price. The Farm Range Hay Barn, Farm Bridge, Country Windmill, Farm Train and Chicken Shed Tunnel are all accessories to grow the set. Bigjigs Rail is one of the most extensive and complete wooden railway systems on the market with accessories, train sets, expansion packs, heritage trains, rolling stock, train tables and more.

What’s more, other major wooden railway brands are compatible with Bigjigs Rail, making it easy to add and build upon any existing wooden railway systems.

ttoysnplaythings.co.uk oysnplaythings.co.uk

Keep chugging TOMY 01392281900 www.tomy.co.uk

Possibly the best in wooden toys Possi The revolutionary Chuggington StackTrack continues to bring action-packed train adventures to life with new, innovative sets for 2015. Building on its core features of sturdy, expandable train track construction that builds up as well as out, the system combines classic train play with the modern world of the hit CBeebies show, Chuggington. New for 2015 is Koko’s Speed Training Set. Race Koko around at high speed using the new start launcher, through the finish lines and round again! Two new engines, Payce and Asher, also move into the sheds to join Koko, Wilson, Brewster and the gang.

The Tunnel and Bridge Playset and Brewster’s Big Build remain at the top of every train fan’s wish list. Tunnel and Bridge includes a High-Performance (HP) Brewster engine, a tunnel and overhead signal. Recreate the TV adventure with Brewster’s Big Build Set, packed with action for HP Brewster and Cormac. The working crane doubles as a lift to rescue engines trapped in the trick bridge, lifting them to safety. The Chuggington Wooden Railway takes the classic charm of wooden train play and brings it up to date with the colourful, exciting world of Chuggington.

Wooden Train Assortment Wooden Vehicle Assortment

Music to my ears GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Following the successful launch of its award-winning Ninky Nonk Musical Activity Train last summer, Golden Bear is set to introduce an exciting new playset to its In The Night Garden range. Golden Bear’s new Musical Ninky Nonk Track and Train Set launches autumn 2015 and is based on the iconic Ninky Nonk Train from the much-loved programme.

Children aged from 18 months can simply press the easy start button to activate the train

which then races around the track and over the bridge. The Ninky Nonk Musical Activity Train is a deluxe train set which offers four products in one.

Activities include a musical pull-along engine, spinning shape sorter, pop-up and peek-a-boo carriages – which can all be used together or individually.

Wooden Chug Along

Wooden Train Table

01604 774949 sales@john-crane.co.uk www.john-crane.co.uk

MARCH 2015

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TNP

AMBASSADORS

Count down to fun This month in TnP Ambassadors we feature some brand new faces. Our intrepid toy explorers took on the mighty challenge of testing toys so all you retailers will know what to expect if you’re asked any questions by your young customers!

Counting cakes!

Kevin is a dad to two boys, Latimer not quite three and Edison who has just turned one. The boys played Cake Monster by Orchard Toys

My boys are typical boys, they love wheels, tracks, dinosaurs and space. So the fact that Orchard Toys’ Cake Monster didn’t have any of the normal ingredients which attract them, had me wondering how much they would enjoy the game. Well, honestly, I needn’t have worried. The game is brilliantly designed. The packaging is fun and robust and the cards you play with are also very strong and beautifully coloured. Each player has a cake stand and you have to use the spinner to find out which cake you need to add to your stand. The winner is the first to fill the cake stand. My eldest, Latimer, is good at counting and this game, which helps you count to 10, really sharpens up his skills, is funny and is great for us to play as a family. Edison, though, being just one, learns different things. When we first started playing he enjoyed playing with the spinner – I thought this was good for his coordination - but also he picks up the cakes and pretends to eat them, which I thought not only showed that he recognises the shapes and pictures but also that he understands the role-play side of things.

In any event, it helps them learn but, moreover, they have a blinking good laugh, and so do I!

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Is there a doctor in the house?

Claire is mum is Herbie, who is nearly three-yearsold. Herbie played with LeapFrog’s Mobile Med Kit This arrived just in the knick of time to our house. Herbie had just grazed his knee so once he saw the ambulance arrive, he set about checking the state of his injury right away! Luckily, thanks to the help of the stethoscope which is included in the pack, he deduced that he would survive. Herbie was immediately taken with the bold, bright packaging but the fact that the Mobile Med Kit had wheels was what initially sparked his interest. However, he eventually realised that what he was playing with was not your average wheeled toy – no! This kit comes with the aforementioned stethoscope, otoscope, thermometer and syringe and Herbie loved pretending he was a medic, it really sparked his imagination as it wasn’t a game he had played before. He also giggled out loud when he pressed the siren and realised it sang songs – “Head, shoulders, knees and toes” being a particular favourite.

After checking everyone’s temperature, including his own several times over, Herbie set about establishing an animal hospital with his little plush toys. All round, this toy was a great hit in our house and I think it may have inspired Herbie to enter the medical profession!

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NEWS

TOY TRUST

Put your trust in toys TnP gives over its pages this month to bring you bring the latest news from the industry’s most beloved charity – The Toy Trust

T

he Toy Trust brings the UK’s toy industry together! Fundraising, fun and more besides are all part of one collective effort to raise money for causes that directly benefit children; both at home and abroad. Our regular column is designed to bring you up to date with news of coming events, snippets of stories from personalities in the industry who are doing their bit, plus an insight into some of the causes that benefit from all the hard work.

COOKING UP A STORM Are you ready for the Big Toy Trust Bake off?

If you’re part of the industry be prepared to have your pinnies, cupcake cases and piping bags at the ready as April brings with it a new challenge that everyone can get involved in!

Cake sales and charity events go hand in hand, but with a fun industry behind it, how creative can you get?! There are awards at stake here so the challenge is set to find out who the cupcake kings or queens of the toy industry are.

It is up to you to set a day to hold your sale and everyone’s a winner. Here are the categories to spark your culinary inspiration!

Best license inspired - industry lead licenses.

It’s all about the kids - any children’s party would be proud to have them.

Here comes summer - summer inspired.

Chocolate heaven - white, dark and milk chocolate creations.

Best of British - whether flavors or style these represent all that is great about the British and Irish isles.

And a big thanks goes to…

Each month we want to acknowledge individuals who are doing their bit no matter how much they raised. This month is someone who has made a very big difference. Months of begging, borrowing and stealing by Jeff Taylor of Arena Azure resulted in the impressive list of media lots that raised £81,700.

Thank you Jeff! If you know someone who should be featured here please contact michele@evolution-pr.co.uk

MARCH 2015

Making a difference The Toy Industry Awards may be a night in which to find out who won all the year’s toy and retail awards, but for the Toy Trust it is one of the key opportunities to spread news of many of the good causes who benefit from all the events and hard work put in by industry members.

This sparkling occasion is also when our media colleagues come up trumps with their generous donations of airtime, display space and online advertising to be bid for on the night.

This year was a record breaking event which raised a colossal £81,700 - an amount that will make an instant difference to some!

And, amongst the many causes there will be a main beneficiary of the moneys raised is The Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice in Berkshire.

For those that were at the event, the heart-felt presentation given by the Toy Trust’s Chair, Foye Pascoe, gave a clear indication of why this charity caught the eye of the committee. For those that were not however, here’s a little more about the organisation and why we are proud to assist in their objective to build an excellent hospice facility for families during their most difficult times.

From the funds raised on the awards night, the Toy Trust has pledged £50,000 to build an outdoor play area at the new hospice which will be located near Maidenhead and the only of its kind in Berkshire. Currently the charity provides a hospice service to children and their families in the area. However, the vision of the founders, Fiona and John Devine, who lost their first child and son Alexander to cancer in 2006 after four and a half years of illness, is to have a purpose built facility. The outdoor play space provided by your generous pledges will create a great play space and happy lasting memories for all the families that will use it.

The Toy Trust needs you!

Not entering the Big Thames Challenge but want to be involved?

Now you can be, and your services are needed!

The toy trust is seeking willing volunteers to help with marshalling and/or on a water station on the day.

If you or someone you know would like to get involved in a great industry event.

Please contact Matt Jones (matt@ btha.co.uk) as soon as possible.

Give a thought to…

Martin Rowe, Brand Manager of Hasbro, who this month will be running the London Marathon in a personal Fundraising effort for the Trust

UpComing Events: Big Thames Challenge: 6 June Bake Off Week: 13-17 April

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LICENSING OPINION KELVYN GARDNER

Let’s go to the movies Movie licensing is having a bit of a moment, says LIMA MD Kelvyn Gardner – are you on board?

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or the first time in many years, 2015 is looking to be the year of movie licensing.

Movies have a long tradition of providing huge successes in the licensing arena. You can more-orless trace this back to the way in which the original Star Wars film ‘invented’ two things: the modern ‘blockbuster’, and the phenomenon of huge merchandise sales.

That was a long time ago, and, in recent years, successful film licensing has seemed more and more to belong to a ‘galaxy far, far away’. Movies are bigger and bolder than ever these days. The marketing that goes with them is more allencompassing, more sophisticated, and capable of reaching consumers at virtually any point in their day.

Compare and contrast to the 1970s heyday of Star Wars (Episode IV, as it is now known). Back then, in my home town, movie marketing seemed to consist of the black and white still photos in ‘coming soon’ frames at the local ABC or Odeon, plus getting a mention on Barry Norman’s ‘Film 77’(a show that continues to this day under the care now of Claudia Winkleman).

Licensed merchandise based on film IP is itself way advance over that of forty years ago as are the distribution channels open to licensees.

What has changed is the amazingly competitive movie market itself.

At the risk

Disney made cartoons, LucasFilm made space adventure, Universal did monsters, the Brits made James Bond and the Carry-ons, the other studios has their highlights too, among everyday motion picture releases that were there to sell tickets, not merchandise.

Fast forward to the twenty-first century, and every studio is into every genre. Disney is still huge in animation, allied now to Pixar.

DreamWorks, Sony, Twentieth Century Fox and Universal all have major animated movie hits and each of these studios outputs at least one film in this genre every year. Most of these films release in the summer, allowing ‘home entertainment’ (still in the format of DVD – but for how long?) to hit the shelves in time for Christmas. When you add in sci-fi, adventure, comedy, book adaptations and all the rest, we seemingly have a ‘tentpole’ movie release every fortnight from May to August.

For potential licensees these are very dangerous waters to navigate. For retailers, how do you chose which of many potential blockbusters you will support on your shelves? The result of this perceived extra risk has been a major retraction in film licensing.

Indeed, there have

been those who have argued that conventional film licensing is dead, to be replaced by ‘brand partnerships’ which are more about marketing than merchandise.

Never say never, though, and the film industry has fought back with some irresistible fare. So, for your film and merchandising delectation in 2015, we have The Avengers – Age of Ultron, Jurassic World, The Minions Movie, Ant Man, Fantastic Four, to name but a key few, all rounded up by the December release of Star Was Episode VII, the franchise that started it all. That’s not even to include the continuing phenomenon that is Disney’s Frozen, with a new short film out in spring and an overhang of popularity which it is sure to ride throughout the current year. All of these films are very well supported by licensees. In the case of Minions, the big grocers are said to be committing to huge orders for stock. Avengers has already proven itself as a brand, and Star Wars, well, to say that it is highly anticipated in licensing circles is the understatement of the century so far. So buy a ticket, and stock some exciting film merchandise in 2015.

You’ll have a great time either way.

LIMA the trade association for the licensing business www.licensing.org/uk email rbeaird@licensing.org

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W O R L D W I D E

NEWS

Olaf firm favourite with Frozen fans Tomy’s Pop Up Olaf – from Disney’s Frozen has gone down a snow storm. The company revealed that the toy is ranked as number one in Hot New Releases for board games after it was launched as a pre-sale item on Amazon.

Pop Up Olaf is Tomy’s new twist on a classic anticipation game. Quick and easy to set up, simply twist Olaf into his barrel and take turns to slide in the crystal sticks. If nothing happens, the player is safe, but if the crystal stick makes Olaf pop up out of this barrel, they’re out! Play the game with a group of Frozen fans until the last player in is the winner.

VTECH ON BOARD FOR TELETUBBIES VTech is the latest licensee announced for the Teletubbies brand. The company will produce interactive electronic toys with products due to roll out from autumn/winter 2016 in the UK, followed by the core European territories, France, Germany, Benelux, Iberia and Australia and New Zealand.

The new partnership was announced by Teletubbies licensor DHX Brands.

Andrew Barrett, VTech Europe’s Director of Product Development and Licensing says: “To be working with DHX and their Teletubbies brand on the relaunch of this very exciting children’s licence… will strengthen our range further”.

The new 60-episode series of Teletubbies has been commissioned by CBeebies and is being produced for DHX Media by award-winning UK production company, Darrall Macqueen Ltd. Over 20 new licensees have been signed to date including Worlds Apart (Furniture & Accessories), Aykroyds (Nightwear and Underwear), Character World (Bedding), Amscan (Partyware), Bon Bon Buddies (Confectionary), Posh Paws (Bags) GB Eye (Posters) and Zak UK (melamine tableware).

Gruffalo goes to the meadow A

A world’s first is taking place in the run up to Easter involving the beloved Gruffalo. Licensors Magic Light Pictures has teamed up with Unit 10 Eventive to bring the Gruffalo Experience to Meadowhall Shopping Centre.

The event is open to the public from 21 March until 12 April 2015. This exclusive face to face Gruffalo Experience at Meadowhall is a chance for children to interact with the characters from the story of the much-loved children’s book. The Gruffalo, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, has now sold over 13.5 million copies.

IT’S TSUM TSUMS TIME Disney’s new Tsum Tsums have landed in the UK. The collecta ble plush are based on popular Disney characters and sold exclusively at Clintons stores. They’ve proved such a hit with children and teenagers in Japan and the United States that they have sold in their millions.

The Tsum Tsums (pronounced ‘tsoom tsoom’ and translated from the Japanese meaning ‘stack stack’) are stackable toys of varying sizes that children place one on top of another.

MARCH 2015

The toys are supported with a Candy Crush-style game, downloadable for iPhone and Android phones. Since its launch the Tsum Tsum app has topped the Apple and Android charts in Japan and has been downloaded more than 14 million times.

“We’re expecting a mad rush when the toys go on the shelves here,” said Clintons’s Marketing and e-Commerce Director, Tim Fairs. “This definitely brings back memories of Beanie Babies, Pokemon and BeyBlades.”

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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: Big Hero 6 Baymax SuperShape Balloon Company: Amscan International Phone: 01908 288500 Website: www.amscan.co.uk

Product: Flying Gadgets X-Voice Company: Flying Gadgets Phone: 0844 209 2626 Website: www.flyinggadgets.com

Product: Yoda 10” Plush Toy Company: Posh Paws Int Phone: 01268 567317 Website: www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk

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Product: Shuffle Disney Cars Company: Cartamundi Phone: 01268 51 15 22 Web: www.cartamundi.com

Product: Express Yourself Range Selfie Jewellery Company: Galt Toys Phone: 0161 428 9111 Web: www.galttoys.com

Product: DC Comic’s Justice League Figures Company: Schleich Phone: 01279 870000 Web: www.schleich-s.co.uk

Product: Seaside Birthday Party Company: EPOCH making toys Phone: 08435 574062 Website: www.sylvanianfamilies.net/uk

Product: Our Generation Dolls Range Company: John Crane Phone: 01604 774949 Web: www.john-crane.co.uk

Product: Karcher for Kids High Pressure Washer Company: Trends UK Ltd Phone: 01295 768 078 Web: www.trendsuk.co.uk

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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 March 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2010

March 10 Volume 29 Number 6

MARCH 2010 • Everyone is waiting for the ‘Majors’ selections and just like in 2015 the country is well into election mania.

• We produce a stonking Disney supplement of 84 pages in size highlighting all that is good within Disney.

• In a trading update, Character Group reveal that they are 70% up on the first two corresponding months of 2009.

• Can it be five years ago that Clive Crouch left GMTV after 18 fantastic years? Yes it’s true, the company had been bought by ITV with the result that many changes were made within the company structure. ITV’s loss was our gain as Clive very soon became one of our main contributors. A veritable ‘Who’s Who’ of the toy trade turn up at Langans to help him on his way.

• Many suppliers are telling us that freight charges have almost doubled on containers from Hong Kong and Chinese manufacturers are finding it difficult to attract enough staff. It is estimated that millions did not return to work in the Pearl Delta following the Lunar New Year break. This will undoubtedly reflect in delayed deliveries of stock to the U.K.

MARCH 2005 • Toys R Us is sold in the States for $5.7. billion and in the U.K. the BTHA announce that they will be handing out two ‘Lifetime Achievement’ awards to David Rurka and Philip Shayer – M.D. and deputy M.D. of Toys R Us. • I am sorry to learn that Gary Conrad has announced his intention to retire from Benjamin Toys following 34 years in the industry.

• Apax pay 300p. per share to acquire licensing company Hit Entertainment, valuing them at £490 million.

• Mr. Alan Munn retires from his job of M.D. at Tomy. Back in 1969 Alan began a short-term contract with Airfix via a firm of management consultants, called in to sort out their warehouse problems. He never left the industry and as many of you are aware, after leaving, he set up the Macaws Agency with Andrew Wood.

MARCH 1995 • Mr. Blobby is still going strong and it is announced that the Beeb are about to make a series of 15 minute animated cartoons.

• Hamleys announce an increase in profits up 46% to £5.6 million.

• Vivid take over distribution for Monster Wrestlers in My Pocket from Tyco Matchbox. Vivid intend mega TV from May to support the brand.

• Peter Brown made a recent speech and suggested that toy companies have trading terms that positively discriminate in favour of the independents meets with much approval from retailers that we speak to this month, but I can’t personally see it working.

MARCH 1985 • The news is announced that Hasbro and Milton Bradley have formed a U.K. holding company. Both companies will continue to run totally independently and the new company will be headed up by Norman Walker.

• Proving the longevity of Hello Kitty we highlight a new launch by Matchbox Toys of ‘Hello Colour’ – bath toys that magically change colour when immersed in water. Pinewood Studios is the venue for this new launch.

• Tomy launch the ‘Get Along Gang’ – six characters created by American Greetings that will feature in 26-15 minute episodes on TV-AM and is already selling well in stores.

• Woolworths report great figures to the City with profits of £56.8 million compared with £29.4 million for 1983. Their share price closed at 747p. Where did it all go so wrong?

• The latest ICC report on the toy industry concludes that 30% of companies made a loss in 1983, 26% achieved a return on capital of over 20%. That seems pretty good to me. Star companies were Kiddicraft, Dekker, Action Games, Milton Bradley and Majorette.

MARCH 2015

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