Toys n Playthings

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Featuring: Vivid Toy Group, K’Nex Character Options, Vtech Jumbo Games, Orchard Toys John Adams, Ty UK & many more ...

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CONTENTS Regular 5

Leader – with Mirella Anstey

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News – the latest toy industry headlines

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Media News – the multimedia rundown

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Media Charts – the latest kids’ TV viewing figures and toy TV advertising spend

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Movie News – the latest from the box office

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Toy Talk –retailers let us know what is selling well

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Retail News – the latest from across the retail landscape

Group Editor

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Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Licensing News – the hottest news from the world of licensing

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

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Spotlight on… Trends UK – one new product, all the USPs explained

2017 mber Septe No. 12 6 Vol. 3

TEAM TnP

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

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

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

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

Managing Director

Amba ial Spec

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90 Trade Talk – we give suppliers a chance to talk business 91

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Watch Out For… – a round up of toys you really don’t want to be without

98 Step Back in Time – a slice of toy history from the industry’s longest running magazine 99 Don’t Miss – unmissable products for all buyers and retailers

Features 28

Games and Puzzles – from traditional to on-trend, this category continues to grow

60 NEW TnP Ambassadors Special: Outdoor toys – our ambassadors test the toys you stock on your shelves in this special edition 78

Pre-Christmas TV Advertising – toys hitting the small screen in a big way ahead throughout the festive season

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Bath time toys – this category is cleaning up!

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

NEssW adors

Special Report 20 Retail Interview – Buying and Merchandising Manager Tracie Nesham tells us about the growing toy business at ZSL’s London and Whipsnade Zoos 26

Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Cover Story – KD UK gives us snapshot of the latest incredible innovation from the kid-safe Kurio brand

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

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NEW Media Analysis – Generation Media’s Alex Taylor-Smith looks at where TV spend goes in the back to school period

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The Independent and Secret Supplier – the Indie muses over the fidget toy craze

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Retail Opinion – It’s beginning to look a little like Christmas – lots to do until it actually is though, says John Ryan

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

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,125 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

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ack to the office, back behind the tills, and importantly for the toy industry, back to school for the nation’s kids. That was summer Mirella 2017, and although it Anstey was a mixed bag on the Toys are big business at ZSL weather front, it seemed like swift business at UK family attractions. We spoke with ZSL’s built-in editing apps. That’s just one of the highlights Buying & Merchandising Manager, Tracie from this year’s Kurio range — you’ll have to head to Nesham to learn how toys are nearly as page 26 for the full scoop. big an attraction as the zoo animals I’m also excited to share something themselves these days — it really is a new from us this month. Our TnP fascinating read on page 20.

Ambassadors feature has been We went into this summer in a bringing you consumer comment frantic spin, with fidget toys all the and reviews rage, and it will be interested to see every month whether they whirl their way back for the past into the playground. Perhaps we’ll few years — see the rise of another fidget toy take and we know its place; The Independent is backing how popular Peterkin’s Mokuru, and you can and valuable find out why in his column this it is. So this month on page 16. month we went The start of a new school one better by KD UK gave us a snapshot of their latest Kurio lines year also heralds the real bringing you a beginning of the toy industry’s TnP Ambassadors busy period. No sleigh bells special, all focused on outdoor toys. as far as I’ve heard, but it Our Ambassadors tried out the won’t be long before it’s time latest and greatest in everything to bring in the big-box toys from water and sand tables to and set about preparing for quadcopters and slime blasters, the coming wave of parents, and we know you will find value in grandparents and other gift hearing why the products are great buyers. Notice I’ve yet to use from both the parents’ and kids’ the C-word? Seems sacrilegious perspectives – invaluable knowledge until the John Lewis ad graces for any retailer looking to tell both our screens, but alas, I must, as sides of the story to their customers. this month we took our annual Get the lowdown on page 60. look at supplier’s pre-Christmas TV Here at TnP towers we’re gearing up for advertising plans. Advertising in the coming Brand Licensing Europe show, the last quarter of the year is a which takes place next month. We don’t hugely integral part of the annual need to tell you how important licensing is marketing spend, ensuring kids to the toy industry, but we’ll let the experts and parents are clued up on all the at LIMA enlighten you anyhow. Their latest incredible products before they Annual Global Licensing Industry Survey splash the cash. Learn more about revealed that toys is the second bestthe coming slate of small-screen selling licesned product category, worth a sizzlers on page 78. cool £26.9b worldwide last year alone. And Our cover stars this month, it probably won’t surprise you to learn KD UK, gave us a look at that after North America, it’s us in the their ever growing, ever UK who buy the most licensed product. developing Kurio brand.

Along with our cousins in France and Think you’ve got your Germany, we spent a whopping £40b selfie perfected? Well, let on merchandise in the past year. me tell you about a little If that’s not enough to get your something called the attention, then we’re sure there Kurio Snap. This brilliant will be plenty of new deals and device lets kids grab a selfie reveals at this year’s BLE to pique whenever, wherever — and of anyone’s interest. As ever, we’ll be the first course tinker with it using the to let you know.

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Think you’ve got your selfie perfected?

Well, let me tell you about a little something called the Kurio Snap.

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Our Ambassadors trialled some top outdoor toys

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news Selling out fast LEGO appoints new CEO LEGO has appointed Niels Christiansen as its new CEO, replacing the British boss it hired in January 2017.

Niels will become the new Chief Executive of the Danish toy company, which last month celebrated its 85th anniversary, as former boss Bali Padda moves to a “special advisory role” after just eight months in the job.

At 61, Bali’s proximity to the average retirement age would leave him only a short tenure in charge, and this, LEGO Chairman Jorgen Vig Knudstorp said, was the reason for his replacement. Niels, 51, will take the reins this October.

Toy Fair 2018 is set to replicate the success of the 2017 show, with the vast majority of the overall exhibition space already sold.

Just five per cent of the space remains nearly six months before the show is set to open at Kensington Olympia on 23 January 2018, with space in the popular Greenhouse area already completely sold out.

The show will also welcome back 75 per cent of exhibitors across the toy, hobby and game sector, from last year’s Toy Fair, with returning companies including Flair, Playmobil, Spin Master, Character Options, Vivid, Orchard Toys and many more.

Interested in exhibiting? Contact the Toy Fair team on 020 7701 7127.

For sponsorship opportunities contact Majen@btha.co.uk

DPR Models takes off…

DPR Models, founded in 1978

by David Rawlins, is set to make a return following the sale of the manufacturing business to aeromodelling enthusiast Mohammad Adeem. The company became the UK’s leading manufacturer of traditional balsa wood gliders and rubber-powered aeroplanes, making well over a million models in 25 years.

The DPR Models range will be jointly distributed across the UK by wholesalers, J. Perkins Distribution Ltd and Javis Manufacturing.

Stamp of toy approval Royal Mail today unveiled a new stamp issue featuring some of the most iconic and much-loved British toys from the last 100 years.

The toys featured include the Sindy Doll, Spirograph, Stickle Bricks, Meccano, and Action Man.

Trend Spotting Kristin Morency Goldman of The Toy Association explores the continuing success of blind bags and collectabless and what impact it has had on the global toy landscape Collectable toys have been a boon to the global toy industry over the past few years – in the US, the category captured nine per cent of total toy sales in 2016, and sales of blind packs grew 60 per cent for the year.

In 2017, toymakers are betting on the continued success of the category, rolling out an array of skill-building and innovative collectable toys leading up to the holiday season.

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The latest wave of collectables all have something in common – fantastic play value!

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characters and collectables that double as educational or active toys, the latest wave of collectables all have something in common – fantastic play value!” says Adrienne Appell, trend expert at The Toy Association in the United States.

The following are some of this year’s most coveted collectable: Like stress balls, Orb Factory’s Soft’n Slo Squishies are foodthemed squishies to collect and squeeze, thanks to their ultra-soft material and slow-rising action post compression. Food shapes include ice cream cones and doughnuts.

Sweetlings from Alex Brands are dessert-themed collectables kids

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Vivid Chairman moves on Vivid Toy Group Chairman Paul weston has stepped down to form his own consultancy business.

Vardhan Rajkumar of Privet Capital, the private equity firm that acquired Vivid earlier this year, will step into the role.

“I have been so fortunate in my career to have been involved in two majorly successful start-up companies, working alongside some of the most talented people in the industry and on some of the biggest and most iconic global toy brands,” said Paul.

Paul will bring his unique 30plus years of his new consulting business, Press Play, allowing him to advise across the whole spectrum of product development, distribution, licensing and retail. He will continue to work with the company in an advisory capacity.

“I have been so fortunate in my career to have been involved in two majorly successful startup companies, working alongside some of the most talented people in the industry and on some of the biggest and most iconic global toy brands,” Paul Weston

Hasbro’s best friend Hasbro has partnered with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help promote the animal rescue centre’s important work.

Spearheaded by Hasbro’s FurReal Friends Chatty Charlie The Barkin’ Beagle toy and his best friend, rescue dog Conker, Hasbro’s support will highlight the importance of rehoming rescue animals.

Craig Wilkins, Marketing Director at Hasbro, said: “Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is such an iconic institution and their commitment and passion towards the welfare of dogs and cats is so important. It’s fantastic to help Battersea reinforce this message using Chatty Charlie, one of the most exciting new additions to the FurReal family.”

Purr-fect launch

Super sales

Character Options launches Cuddles My Dream Kitten, the latest release in the hugely successful Little Live Pets range. This fully interactive plush toy moves and feels just like a real pet: she opens and closes her eyes, makes sleeping sounds, nuzzles, purrs, and much more. Mark Hunt, Marketing Manager, said: “Snuggles, My Dream Puppy quickly established itself as a must-have toy in 2016.

Cuddles, My Dream Kitten will grow the category and give even more choice to gift buyers.”

Batman was found to be the topselling superhero in NPD’s recent findings on superhero toys as it emerged such toys accounted for £1 in every £13 spent on toys in the UK in the first half of 2017. Spend on superhero toys exceeded £200m. “It’s fascinating to see long-standing characters like Batman and Spider-Man resonate as well with today’s kids as they did with their parents all those years ago,” said Frederique Tutt, Global Industry Analyst, Toys, NPD.

can create and customise with whipped clay and accessories.

They come in two different sizes and feature cupcakes, cake pops, doughnuts, and more.

Little Sprouts by wicked Cool Toys is an extension of the popular Cabbage Patch Kids line, featuring 120 miniaturesized kids, babies, and pets that live in the Cabbage Patch Kids world. In blind packs, 4-pack or 8-pack sets, including kids, babies, pets, accessories, and surprise limited-edition pets.

Bbuddieez by Jupiter Creations, Inc. is a wearable, playable, and educational collectible toy line. Helping kids learn about the world they live

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collect with ultra rares to discover. in, each Bbuddieez represents a Awesome Little Green Men by country and can be viewed online.

Entertainment Inc. is a new Adora’s Mixxie line includes a Sales of MGA take on the little green Army men, plush pony, kitty, mermaid, and blind packs where kids can engage in battle other characters. Each comes with interchangeable body parts, grew 60 per with new characters. The first series accessories, outfits, and more, cent for the offers kids more than 100 unique characters to collect, including four allowing children to customise their year super-rare figures. collectables and enhance their Sweet Shop Scented Jewelry motor skills while they play. by zorbitz started out as scented Spin Master has expanded its necklaces and charms shaped as Hatchimals line, with Hatchimals doughnuts and lollipops. The line Colleggtibles, which come in has expanded to include Fun Foods small, speckled eggs and need a like popcorn, tacos, fries and more! child’s touch to hatch. A miniature Hatchimal with magical, glittery want to be among the first to preview next year’s hottest trends? Visit wings is revealed. the upcoming North American International Toy Fair, taking place More than 70 February 17-20, 2018 in New York City. Visit www.ToyFairNY.com Colleggtibles to

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news

Express your Elf! PMS International has unveiled a must-have accessories rnage for retail partners to get ready for 2017 Elves Behavin’ Badly displays.

Following the huge sales demand last year, the team has designed some fun new lines to help families develop their collection of Elves Behavin’ Badly. It’s hard

for an Elf to create havoc without transport, so this year there’s a range of stunning sleighs. After a hard night Behavin’ Badly an Elf needs sleep, and the Time for Bed Single Bed is just the ticket.

Also available is the Play time 2-Seater Elf Swing, four adorable Elf-sized Christmas jumpers, and much more!

Doctor’s orders A heartwarming story saw Character Options and toy retailer SMF Toys rally around to make a little girl’s toy dream come true recently.

Kinley Brown, six, from Co. Antirm in Ireland wanted nothing more than a Doc McStuffins Lambie Fash’ems, but after a story on BelfastLive told of mum Jamie’s attempts to track one down online failing, the toy industry pulled together to help.

SMF Toys’ Andrew Addley shared the story with Character Options, and although Character didn’t run the line in the UK, that wasn’t going to stop them. The team soon had Tech4Kids, the company behind the collectable brand, on the case, who generously packed up a care package of the Lambie toy and a host of other Fash’ems for little Kinley, who has learning difficulties, to enjoy.

So it was a happy ending for Kinley and family, and a display of what the toy industry is all about. Great job everyone!

US TOTY Awards now open Nominations are now open for the The Toy Association’s 2018 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards. Toy companies, inventors, and other industry representatives are invited to submit their toys, games, and licenses for consideration across a total of 17 TOTY categories until 20 September.

“The TOTY Awards celebrate the collective toy industry’s most creative and innovative toys and games that deliver the incredible benefits of play to children of all ages,” said Ken Seiter, VP of Marketing Communications at The Toy Association. “We are proud to continue this time-honoured tradition, and look forward to announcing the big winners at our gala in February 2018.”

Visit www.toyassociation.org for more details.

Megan wins bronze Countdown to Christmas Playmobil is providing a perfect countdown to Christmas 2017 with a selection of exciting advent calendars on sale now.

The range includes three returning favourites, and three brand new introductions: an update of the Christmas on the Farm calendar for kids aged 18 months, Jewel Thief Police Operation and Royal Ice Skating Trip. These new sets join returning favourites Pirate Treasure Island, Dress Up Party and the original Christmas on the Farm calendars.

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Last month TnP shared the news of Megan Barratt’s qualification to ride in Team GB at this year’s European Pony Championships. This month we’re happy to report that Megan, daughter to industry stalwarts Mike and Sue Barratt, won a bronze medal at the prestigious event.

Mum and dad are “highly delighted!” Congratulations from Team TnP.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 13:13

Dad knows best The entry window for this year’s Dad’s Choice Awards is drawing to a close, with just weeks left to get involved. All nominations for the fifth annual awards must be in before 29 September, with 20 categories to enter.

David Ross, founder of the Dads Choice Awards, said: “This year we’ve recruited even more Super Dad testers who are ready to put the entries through their paces… We’ve had support from amazing brands over the years including VTech, Spin Master, Anki, Playmobil, Bananagrams and Ravensburger to name a few. We cannot wait to see what 2017 has in store for our Dads.”xe Visit www.dadschoiceawards.co.uk for full entry details.

BLE to spotlight toys

Toys and video games will be centre stage at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe. A slate of talks in The Licensing Academy will focus on the key trends affecting the future of licensing in Europe, with Brexit, gaming and toys all featuring high on the agenda.

Frederique Tutt, Toys Global Industry Analyst, The NPD Group will present an overview of the European licensed toy market in 2017 — a must attend for any visitor interested in toys and toy brands.

Complementing NPD’s session, Mojo Nation will lead a panel called Playing with brands: A look at the design process behind toys and games.

BLE takes place 10-12 October at Olympia London.

Egg-citing line-up Spin Master is inviting Hatchimals fans to “Hatch a Whole World”, with the expansion of its hugely popular Hatchimals Colleggtibles line and the launch of Hatchimals Glittering Garden.

“We know collectibles are a rising toy trend, and we are pleased to offer the hatching experience at a low price point with over 70 to collect,” said Ben Gadbois, President and COO of Spin Master said: “Our fans now have more offerings through brand extensions, and licensing programs to build their own Hatchtopia.”

Hatchimals has also been tipped for Christmas success

by The Entertainer, with Buying Director Stuart Grant saying: “The current success rate puts Spin Master and Hatchimals in a great position to be at the top of 2017 Christmas wish lists.”

EOLO teams with TKC

New home for Thames & Kosmos Thames & Kosmos is making a swift exit from its former home base as it prepares to move to larger premises in Kent. The new site will allow the company to continue its growth, following a stellar year so far which has seen its Exit games win the coveted Spiel des Jahres award.

The company will be moving over the next few weeks to Cranbrook in Kent. The company’s new full address is: 20 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 3HE, and the phone number is: 01580 713000.

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TKC has has inked an exclusive distribution partnership with Hong Kongbased EOLO to bring the company’s brands to the UK and Ireland.

Aqua Gear, Aqua Creatures, Real Flyerz (pictured), Popup Kites and Disc Jock-e, will be available exclusively in the UK and Ireland from TKC from 2018.

Richard Hawkins, Toy & Gift Sales Manager at TKC, said: “We are very excited to have been given the opportunity to distribute the EOLO brands in the UK. EOLO products are a perfect addition to our current range. We very much look forward to bringing these to market and expect strong performance and growth in 2018.”

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MEDIA

news

Pic-achu Pikachu has been popping up all over the world in a new Snapchat Lens.

The Pokémon Company partnered with Snap Inc. to launch the custom Pikachu Snapchat Lens for a limited time, and fans are loving it.

Pokémon fans can use the Lens now, and will see Pikachu’s ears, nose, and bright-red cheeks appear over their face. Then, they can open their mouth to hear Pikachu’s iconic voice as it jumps onto the screen and strikes a pose.

PJ Masks expands in Asia Entertainment One (eOne) is expanding the reach of its popular pre-school superhero property PJ Masks in Asia, with a new broadcast partner and toy distributor in Tawian.

The series will air daily on Yoyo TV, the country’s number one channel for kids, which is also home to eOne’s Peppa Pig and Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom. Pro & Pacific is on board to distribute the award-winning toy range from master global toy partner Just Play from late September.

Andrew Carley, Head of Global Licensing at eOne, said: “With its core values of adventure, teamwork and friendship, PJ Masks is striking a chord with young fans all around the world. We’re delighted to be expanding the brand’s presence in Asia.”

Netflix acquires Millarworld

Building followers K’Nex is celebrating passing 25,000 followers on kid-safe social platform PopJam. Since launching a year ago, the @KNEXUK PopJam account has gained 26,000 followers, using a mix of engaging content to spark and retain users’ interest. Recent highlights include 52,857 downloads of a bespoke Sticker Pack containing emoji style K’Nex parts and pieces. K’Nex UK MD Paul Fogarty said: “Today’s kids are super savvy consumers and find it easy to spot sales copy and tune it out, so it’s important we offer them genuinely engaging content they want to like and share.”

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Netflix has made its first acquisition with the purchase of comic book publisher Millarworld for an undisclosed amount.

It is the first move the US video-on-demand giant has made into other forms of media, although Millarworld’s rich portfolio of IP seems to be the key reason behind the purchase.

The comic company has produced some of the most successful comicmovie adaptations of the past decade, including Wanted and Kingsman.

Netflix has said it intends to turn the comic publisher’s characters and worlds into TV, movies and children’s shows.

Moana hits newsstands Egmont Publishing launched Moana Magazine in August, a new monthly magazine for fans of the Disney character.

Moana Magazine joins other Egmont publications including Disney’s Princess magazine and Frozen magazine, the number one title in the UK children’s market.

Laura Adnitt, Publishing Director at Egmont Publishing said: “We are delighted to launch Moana Magazine. The thrill, humour and adventure of the movie is rich content for a regular frequency magazine and we are sure that fans of the movie will want to continue their adventures with Moana and Maui through the joy of print.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 10:48

MEDIA

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Housewives Children July 16 vs July 17 Jul-16

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elcome to the Media Report for July. We are reporting viewing levels for Boys & Girls 4-9 years and Housewives with Children Pre–school.

Traditionally at this period of the year, viewing levels tend to drop due to the kids’ school holidays, although saying that there are some stations that show an increase in viewing, so there are a few ups and downs. Looking at the viewing levels for the Boys, although they are down by 15 per cent, they’re not too bad for the time of year. The biggest drop is Cartoon Network, but on a positive note we see CiTV, Nickelodeon and Tiny Pop are up, and Channel 5 is only slightly down on the same period in 2016.

G TAKIN Again, not a bad E picture for the Girls, ALL THRS INTO with total viewing down O FACT NT, IT’S by just 7.6 per cent. We ACCOUBAD see a big increase for NOT A RMANCE Pop with Tiny Pop showing a big decrease; PERFO Nick Junior is breaking even as is CiTV. Taking all the factors into account, it’s not a bad performance.

It’s a different picture for the Housewives with Children — Pre-school. This group is down overall by 29 per cent. Tiny Pop and Disney Junior show the biggest drop, but Channel 5 is holding on, as is Pop, CiTV and Cartoonito. We are hoping the drop is due to school holidays.

Looking at the top 10 spenders, we can see that Hasbro is slightly down, and the group is down by 2.9 per cent — again an expected figure at this time of the year. It’s interesting to note that the make-up of the top 10 for 2017 is quite different compared to July 2016. The total market is up by 23.4 per cent on reported TV expenditure, and we would envisage August showing a similar picture.

Next issue we will continue to report on Girls and Boys 4-9 years, and Housewives with Children Pre–school.

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Boys 4-9 TVRs July 16 vs July 17 Jul-16

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Girls 4-9 TVRs July 16 vs July 17 Jul-16

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July 2016 Toy Company TV Expenditure

July 2017 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

VTech Electronics Ltd Zuru Toys Inc LEGO UK Ltd Spin Master Toys Ltd Mookie Toys Vivid Imaginations Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Character Options Ltd IMC Toys UK Ltd Hasbro (UK) Ltd

252,558 272,913 360,666 442,853 482,328 703,679 730,875 1,069,759 1,195,118 1,371,656

Mattel UK Ltd Thinkway Toys Panini LEGO UK Ltd Character Options Ltd Golden Bear Prod Ltd IMC Toys UK Ltd Zuru Toys Inc Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Hasbro (UK) Ltd

312,604 337,036 368,257 397,425 440,873 515,330 551,887 565,196 1,662,490 1,930,830

For more information on viewing levels please contact Mike Penfold. mike@globalmedia.me.uk Tel: 01494 763178.

All graphs and information supplied by Global Media Services

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 16:37

MOVIE

NEWS

UK box office thrives The UK film and cinema industry has been highlighted by the Office for National Statistics as a key contributor to the nation’s economic growth in the three months to June 2017.

Growth of 8.2 per cent during the period makes the industry the second largest contributor to economic growth behind retail. The UK’s longstanding production industry makes up the core of this, but box office takings for hit movies like Wonder Woman and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 also played a key role.

“These latest headline figures confirm the success of the UK cinema industry over recent times at the national level,” said UK Cinema Association Chief Executive Phil Clapp. “Even set against the successes of last year, we are already six per cent ahead on admissions and 12 per cent ahead on box office compared to the same point in 2016.”

Time to transform Transformers is going back to its cartoon roots. Hasbro confirmed an animated feature film is in the works at Boulder Media Studio.

The untitled, undated production is planned to be the first in a new series of cinema outings for the Autobots and Decepticons, with Hasbro hoping to release a new animated adventure every year. The movies will not replace the live-action Transformers franchise, instead taking place, and telling new tales within the same narrative universe.

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Billions for Minions The Despicable Me series has become the highest-ever grossing animated movie franchise. A strong showing for the third main entry in the series pushed Universal’s world of super villains and Minions past £2.7bn in early August, taking the crown from DreamWorks’ Shrek series, which topped out at £2.68b.

The record breaking series includes the three Despicable Me movies and the 2015 Minions spin off, the highest grossing of the lot so far with £674m in ticket sales.

A Minions 2 in the works and plenty more weeks at the box office for Despicable Me 3 means this lead will only increase.

Catch ‘em while you can A new Pokémon animated movie is headed to cinemas later this year, but for just two days. Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! will be hitting the big screen on 5 and 6 November for a number of special screenings in select theatres around the world.

“As an origin story, Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! is the perfect way for a new generation of Pokémon fans to experience the beginning of Ash and Pikachu’s friendship, and it offers longtime fans an exciting new look into the start of their epic adventures,” said Colin Palmer, VP of Marketing at The Pokémon Company International.

Art of the Ninja New posters are popping up for the LEGO Ninjago Movie, introducing us to the film’s heroes and villains. An all-star voice cast includes kung-fu legend Jackie Chan as Master Wu, Justin Theroux as nemesis Garmadon, and Dave Franco and Olivia Munn as Ninjago heroes Lloyd and Koko – each with their own posters in signature colours. The LEGO Ninjago Movie battles its way into UK cinemas 13 October.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 10:51

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MEDIA

ANALYSIS

Top class A

s August draws to a close, a new school year However, collectable products are not just focused beckons with fresh school uniforms being to TV-only media approaches; we have seen a number ironed, pencil cases filled and lunchboxes of advertisers employing the use of influencers. With hunted out in kitchens across the nation! With the price point for collectables typically being low, it is the anticipation of a new school year, comes with it an understandable that there is not a significant investment explosion of collectability as children prepare to share, into online partnerships or e-retail for example as it is swap and exchange collectables in playgrounds across an impulse purchase. However having buy in from key the country. In preparation, we will no doubt see a surge influencers certainly helps to generate that collectability in the number of collectable campaigns as we approach craze. the key back to school weeks.

All you have to do is take a look on Tiana’s Toys & Me As we rewind to 2016 (see chart bottom right), page (as of 17 August) and there are five collectable the number of collectable campaigns products within the first 20 videos shown. on air increased across August in Including the likes of Worldeez, Grossery Gang, This level of line with a final push before the Mashems & Fashems and Play-Doh take on airtime is indicative school gates re-opened. However, fidget spinners, among others. With some of the more notable is the average weekly videos raking in over 2.3m views it is no surprise of the cost delivery of the campaigns, reaching that collectables are taking this word of mouth effective airtime over 90 Kids 4-9 TVRs per week approach. across August to in this month. This level of airtime However it is important to note that while the September is indicative of the cost effective numbers may look high on first glance, one must airtime across August-September take into account that those views are global and before entering October when costs account for any one person viewing, whether to TV advertise increase in line with that be a journalist, client, media agency or the demand across potential consumer. the half term period.

If you need assistance in understanding the Despite this we can see the largest increase in recommended media split to deploy for a product the number of campaigns was in October. This is no launch please contact us on the details at the bottom doubt in correlation with promotion of higher price of teh page. We can take you through The Media point playsets that are fighting for a spot Aggregator; our propriety tool produced to help you on the Christmas wish list. justify investment outside of TV. 05-Sep-16 12-Sep-16 19-Sep-16 26-Sep-16 03-Oct-16 10-Oct-16 17-Oct-16 24-Oct-16 31-Oct-16 07-Nov-16 14-Nov-16 21-Nov-16 28-Nov-16 The marketing push clearly resulted in sales 111 177 195 191 117 193 297 351 274 236 254 257 237 7 10 10 9 11 5 15 14 5 6 8 9 9 Source: BARB, 2017. Campaigns selected by GM. NPD Group 2016. following the NPD Group update earlier in the year 66 46 45 43 45 45 27 29 30 40 41 41 34 showing the collectables market in the UK had increased by 44 per cent YoY, Collectable Toys & Games TV Campaigns accounting for almost one in four 27th JuneChart Title - 31st December 2016 16 100 toys sold.

90 A key tactic still employed 14 80 for collectable TV campaigns 12 70 this year is to run high weekly 10 60 weights throughout their 8 50 campaign duration. So it will be 40 interesting to see how other 6 30 categories compete in terms 4 20 of share of voice during the 2 10 core October-November 0 0 period, or whether the average weights across the wider market will Average Weekly CH4-9 TVRs N.o. of Collectables Campaign drop off as a result.

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26-Dec-16

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No. of collectable campaigns

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Avr Kids 4-9 TVRs

The beginning of a new school year brings a flurry of TV activity ahead of the preChristmas period.

Generation Media’s Alex delves into cost-effective collectable campaigns

Generation Media is the UK and Ireland’s largest independent media buyer of toys and games advertising. Visit generationmedia.co.uk or call 0207 307 7900 to learn more.

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Generation Media.indd 1

toysnplaythings.co.uk1 05/09/2017 11:46

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16-08-2017 2:51:32 PM 05/09/2017 09:47

the independent

opinion

Keep on spinning As the Secret Supplier takes a month off, The Independent has fidget toys on the brain as he ruminates on the challenges of keeping on top of a craze – and this time, he says, the suppliers have it spot on

A

“

s we move into the season where the nights are starting to get a bit shorter, the days a bit colder and we realise that summer is starting to come to a close for another year, our minds tend to immediately fast forward to snow and a big fat guy in a red suit.

This is where our livelihood comes from, and although I am a massive fan of summer time, I still, after so many years, get a massive buzz from working in such a versatile and everchanging industry.

So, as we now enter this annual phase of jumping forward to Christmas, why am I sat at my desk trying to master playing with this Mokuru Fidget Stick and failing miserably?

I love nothing more than when a toy or gadget captures the imaginations of a large age group. There are always products that do this if I think about it - LEGO, games, puzzles, and so on – but this fidget thing should have been invented years ago. As I sit at my desk, I now have numerous

16

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I applaud the suppliers who have been innovative enough to keep the spinners alive with different shapes, materials and qualities. We have done very well out of them

”

items that I have randomly acquired from my shop floor, and even now, four months after the fidget craze swept the market, I still sit and from time to time give it a good spin with my finger, certain that if I try it just once more I will break my current record.

I love this craze and hate it at the same time. I know most retailers are still a bit scathed by the Loom Band situation and how that dropped off a cliff so quickly.

But with the fidget craze, we are in a much better position and are taking in smaller amounts of stock regularly, trying to get that difficult balance between not missing sales but not having too much stock to shift. I applaud the suppliers who have been innovative enough to keep the spinners alive with different shapes, materials and qualities. We have done very well out of them, and now we have been in stock of this Mokuru Fidget Stick from Peterkin and once again, for totally different reasons, I applaud them for what they have been doing behind the scenes.

Let me explain: while I was still waiting for my fidget spinners to arrive, there were thousands and

thousands being sold (no CE mark, but still being sold) in the markets in the towns where my stores are. I had no idea how I could have been so late to market, as the moment I saw them I ordered a pile of them, but for the first time in a long career of toys it seemed that the usual copycats were ahead of the curve while making us specialist toy retailers look, dare I say, a bit stupid. It also seemed to me that there wasn’t very much action in the way of the authorities sorting out the mess. In my opinion it seemed as if it might have been too much hard work, so they just turned a blind eye. I may be wrong, but even when I complained to my local council they were of very little help, and for weeks and weeks all of the shoe shops, butchers and men in white vans seemed to be merrily selling away.

Peterkin on the other hand have been influential in their strategy of protecting the Mokuru product. When I first saw the item I knew there would be lots of copies, but from the questions I asked and research I have done, they have really been on top of who has what and making sure copycats are challenged and told to cease trading if it infringes on their patents or copyrights. Well done to you guys for doing this; it makes life a little simpler for us all knowing that some suppliers don’t just let things go on because it might be too much hassle, or it might upset someone.

Fidget toys are both fantastic and a total pain at the same time.

I’ve had a fair bit of cash through my tills from them — all at a good margin return — but I have noticed a dip in my regular lines across a number of ranges. While I wouldn’t ever discourage someone from coming in and buying exactly what they wanted from my stores, it still makes it harder to hit my targets with various suppliers, which is the backbone of my profit.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 10:53

RETAIL

OPINION

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

TRACEY CLARKE Toyland toy shop, Blackpool, Lancashire What has been selling well for you recently over the summer?

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we chat with retailers around the country to see what was hot this summer, surprises of the year and how they stay unique

ALAN DADSWELL Toys ‘n’ Tuck, Southend, Essex What has been selling well for you over the summer?

Licensed lines for PJ Masks have sold well, as have Glimmies from Flair.

Smaller items and pocket money toys are great sellers for us — Pokémon cards, Playfoam and Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. LEGO, PAW Patrol and PJ Masks also sell well.

How important are suppliers’ Christmas TV advertising plans in informing your purchasing decisions?

How important are suppliers’ Christmas TV advertising plans in informing your purchasing decisions?

It’s very important to us, but in our experience independent stores such as ourselves, with only seven stores, rarely get told in advance.

For us, advertising is becoming less and less important — especially now marketing campaigns are diluted by being spread across so many channels.

In terms of purchasing we will go with characters such as PAW Patrol or PJ Masks — plus Playmobil Ghostbusters has been selling well.

What’s been the biggest surprise of the year so far?

Zimpli Kids’ Gelli Baff and Slime Baff have been great. Another highlight has been Little Live Pet Butterflies from Character Options, which have flown out the doors thanks to the fab moving window displays they provided us with.

What do you offer your customers that makes you unique?

We have a 0 per cent interest Christmas club to help spread the cost, which is really popular. We also give back to the community by offering free retail training in our Blackpool store alongside trained staff, which is council funded and free for local unemployed or those with learning difficulties.

What’s been the biggest surprise of the year so far?

Probably Bush Baby World from Golden Bear, which is brand new and has sold really well.

What do you offer your customers that makes you unique?

Something we can do as an independent that national chains just can’t is really target our social media.

We talk to customers in our area and have a great following of around 8,500 followers on Facebook.

PHIL HAWKINS Toys UK, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire What has been selling well for you over the summer?

LEGO is our bestseller, and has been all year. Star Wars LEGO is still very popular, as is LEGO Ninjago.

How important are suppliers’ Christmas TV advertising plans in informing your purchasing decisions?

Advertising certainly makes a big difference to what we stock for Christmas. Our suppliers tell us which brands they are going to be heavily trailing and that has an impact on what we as a store purchase and promote. Predictions for this year’s festive bestsellers are still somewhat up in the air, but I think Hatchimals will be big news again, as will PAW Patrol merchandise.

SEPTEMBER 2017 Toy Talk.indd 1

What’s been the biggest surprise of the year so far?

That’s a hard one, but I think the success of fidget spinners was unexpected.

Pokémon is still also huge — it’s definitely become an evergreen product category.

What do you offer your customers that makes you unique?

Personal service — we will always go out of our way to help customers, finding a way to help them get what they want, even if we don’t stock it.

17

05/09/2017 10:59

RETAIL

OPINION

Time to take stock Christmas is just around the corner, but what to do in the calm before the storm?

John Ryan shares sage advice

I

t’s been a tricky month. Negotiations for Brexit might not be such a bad thing. appear to be mired in indecision and political First up is display. This is the thing that will make the wrangling. Consumer confidence is faltering (to put difference between your store and that of your rivals. it mildly) and whenever a new set of results appears from The focus may well be on how to deck the windows with one of the big retailers, it seems that the only way is down. holly and suchlike, but there’s still a little time before the But where does all of this leave the more modest baubles and tinsel get to see the light of day. Meanwhile, operators? If your business is one of the many have you in fact managed to make your windows thousands within retail, let alone toy retailing, that attractive in the interim and are they themed? is looking at the run-up to Christmas with a certain Walking past a toyshop in Crouch End, North London amount of nervousness, then what needs to be the other day, it did rather seem that whoever owned it done? Not much, some might say. The die is cast, the subscribed to the more is more school of thought. It is merchandise is bought and all that’s needed now is not, and some pretty robust decluttering was required healthy footfall and a little prayer that you’ve ordered to make this one work. It’s also worth noting that it was the right toys when you were at that trade fair a few a busy Saturday. Shoppers were out in force, but this months ago. toyshop was empty. You reap what you sow.

Of course, there will be those who’ve left things late as Theme your window therefore – relatively far as inventory is concerned, hoping that in so doing they straightforward, don’t put too much in it and then think will be able to read the runes a little about the rest of the shop. As in so more clearly. Maybe, but probably many things in life, there is quite a lot Be economical in your to be said for keeping something in not – until the first few items of a specific line change hands over reserve and this may be the moment approach – it’s perfectly the counter, there is no guarantee possible to make an interior to work on a few key items as far as of any kind: who would have seen display is concerned and not to try attractive without filling it spinners coming this time last year? and cram everything out in the hope to bursting Assuming, therefore, that the that something will sell. great bulk of what Christmas It’s also worth thinking about the shoppers will be perusing a couple walls as well as the display tables. of months from now is done and dusted, what else Toy manufacturers are pretty adept at producing should be attended to? posters that adorn the walls of toyshops, from Star Well, maybe the website that you’ve laboured over in Wars to LEGO. As with everything else, these are fine, your spare time needs an autumn clean. The sun may but using them as an alternative form of wallpaper is still be cracking the flags – sorta – but take a leaf out of unlikely to be looked upon favourably by the shopper. the fashion retailers’ book: autumn is already upon us Be economical in your approach – it’s perfectly and in the toy trade that means little more than a possible to make an interior attractive without filling it precursor to the main event. to bursting and the 80/20 rule can always be applied.

This also means that your web presence should So much for the front of house; what about the reflect this. But what to put on it? New. That’s stockroom and behind the scenes? When was the it and the home page should be changed last time you did any kind of audit of what’s in there? regularly, but very probably isn’t. Now, The chances are that there are a fair few toys that however, is the time to do something about it. have been sitting on the shelf since the turn of the There is a mild hiatus between today and the millennium. They haven’t sold and you’ve not had the moment when the festive season kicks in and strength of character to chop them out and move on. best to make the most of it – you’ll be busy This might be the year, and indeed the month, in which soon enough. you finally get round to doing this.

Virtual retail is one thing, however, A lot to do therefore, in spite of the fact that sales garnering sales in your shop(s) is another, and over the next month are not at their zenith. The this remains the most vital element in your temptation when things are quiet(er) is to do little commercial equation for the next few and sit tight until November. Follow this road and months – it won’t take care of itself. all the dire predictions currently appearing in our And if this really is the calm before papers will come to pass. It’s time to get straight the storm, then perhaps a checklist and nothing beats preparation.

“

”

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

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 10:57

World Concepts Mega Show.indd 1

14/08/2017 16:40

RETAIL ZSL

Wild about toys ZSL’s London and Whipsnade Zoos have been loved and visited by generations of families, but these days the gift shops are almost as big a draw as the animals — especially when it comes to toys. TnP spoke to ZSL’s Buying & Merchandising Manager, Tracie Nesham, to find out more…

W

chalking up a massive 65 per cent of sales within this category.

“I never thought I’d say it but we get really excited about plush,” Tracie confides. “It’s our bestseller a massive draw. and huge business for us.

But we’re not just talking about “Sales are through the roof on the colonies of cute Humboldts, hammerhead and blue sharks and perky Rockhoppers and African we’ve sold nearly 3000 units of a black-footed birds here. Plush stand-alone tiger. Sloths are the penguin chick Beanie animals are most looked-for item online and pretty popular in the zoo gift shops Plush is a so we have three different sizes too, costing just three pounds bestseller and — and we have one tiny giraffe apiece and shifting more than beanie that sold 10,000 units huge business 4000 units since May! last year.

Which could explain why ZSL’s for us — our “Our total Beanie range is Buying & Merchandising Manager total Beanie around 70,000 units a year.”

Tracie Nesham admits that she and range is The importance of the Toys her 15-strong team who oversee around 70,000 & Games category to ZSL’s two main gift shops each at ZSL units a year gift outlets is easy to see when London and ZSL Whipsnade in Tracie tells us that over the past Bedfordshire and seven satellite year it’s taken 36 per cent of outlets in total like plush. the sales mix, with this toy trend Just as well when you consider continuing apace even during the that plush is by far the biggest organisation’s busiest time of year sub category within the shops’ — the summer holidays. huge Toys & Games product range, hen it comes to the Zoological Society of London Zoos the penguins are always

“

”

As well as Plush, within which the £3 Beanie animals drive a lot of volume, Pocket Money, Model Animals and Dress Up have also all been key areas within Toys & Games for ZSL in 2017.

With its customers looking for "value for money, balanced with quality", ZSL strives to cater for all needs – from family day trippers to zoo members to school children with only a couple of pounds to spend – and prides itself on stocking toys at all price points.

Pocket Money toys under £5 are a key area for Tracie’s team, contributing around 30% of Toy & Games sales this year. Aside from Beanie soft toys, slime products retailing andplush animal tails are also big sellers.

Tracie is well-placed to be top of the toy tree for ZSL, as she’s also mum to her seven-yearold son Freddie – who is so proud of her working

Spending swimmingly One new child-focused range that Tracie has introduced at ZSL is the bespoke branded marine line of tableware for little ones.

“We have an aquarium, so it makes sense to build on that,” she says. “It’s also educational because it names all of the species on there. It’s more relevant to us than the Smurf and Gruffalo items we had before.”

Future plans introduce further educational items, including a top that looks like a tour t-shirt, but with names of endangered species on the back rather than bands. And next year it will apparently be all about bugs!

“They’re everywhere around us, they’re beautiful and we should look after them,” says Tracie.

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Retail Interview ZSL.indd 1

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 16:42

Ethically sourced As a conservation charity it’s vital for ZSL to work with ethical and sustainable suppliers who support their brand ethos. Hence companies such as Nature Planet, Ravensden and Traditional Craft are top of the list.

“We deal with very ethical suppliers, like Nature Planet who only work with attractions and don’t sell to the high street at all,” Tracie explains. “Our clothing supplier only exports from India, where they can trace every single component back. The majority of our plush is made in Indonesia because we know that it’s a quality product and we can price it reasonably.”

for the society that he stood up in school and declared that she was his hero.

“He worships David Attenborough, so he was thrilled when I joined ZSL,” she explains.

Coming from a background that included fashion names Monsoon, Debenhams and Kurt Geiger, joining ZSL was a big change for Tracie, but she says it’s one of the most exciting career moves she’s made and hasn’t looked back in her two years in the job.

Since Tracie’s arrival, the commercial team at ZSL has seen sales rise 7 per cent over the past year. “We have two million customers coming through the zoos each year and they all want to spend in the shops,” she says. “There is more spend per transaction now, with an average transaction value of around £10, which is amazing when you consider that we have a lot of product under £10.”

As well as covering both zoo sites, Tracie’s role also involves overseeing a recently launched online presence with Online Trading Manager Rachael Smallwood and she works alongside a talented visual merchandising retail team headed up by Chris Webb in London and Simon Maples at Whipsnade.

As Tracie explains, every single item sold in the shops is carefully thought through.

“We live and breathe conservation and education, and I

“

We have two million customers coming through the zoos each year and they all want to spend in the shops believe it’s essential that each item in the shops is related to what we do as an organisation.

“We showcase new products to our Conservation Programmes Director to get his approval, making sure nothing controversial goes into the shops. It can take anything up to nine months to make sure that a product is absolutely right before it goes in-store.

“One of the first things I did in the job was have a massive sale to clear out anything that wasn’t right for us conservationally or as a zoo. A product has to fit with the remit of who we are.”

Tracie’s next step was to look at pricing: “Last year we carried out a huge price exercise to standardise all of our prices, making sure we were

SEPTEMBER 2017 Retail Interview ZSL.indd 2

”

in line with, or just under, high street prices," she says.

“It was essential we weren’t seen as expensive — people pay a lot of money to visit us already.”

With both these factors in mind, one reasonably priced, new collection that Tracie is especially proud of introducing is the Little Zoo Keeper range.

“I suggested we created a uniform that children could go away with,” she explains. “We introduced hoodies, socks, shorts, caps - the entire outfit.

My son and his friends wear them the whole time.

“We have also introduced a baby Zoo Keeper body this year with matching socks and this summer we launched a cute Zoo Keeper dress.”

So whether pint-sized animal lovers are in the mood for playing dress up or simply parting with a couple of quid for a clever or cute pocket money toy, ZSL shops have them covered.

Getting out and about As well as developing their own lines, Tracie and her team are always on the lookout for new products. They visit a lot of toy fairs and gift shows, always looking for something new — and products and toys with elements they haven’t seen before.

Toy Fair in January is always seen as a golden opportunity to find new resources for ZSL’s toy offering for the year ahead.

“I don’t believe a buyer should be sat behind their desk all day,” Tracie explains. “They should be in the field, coming back with constant ideas and inspiration. Buyer Roz Roper and her team do a fantastic job.

“Toy Fair is a brilliant chance to look for new products, trends and to meet up with our existing supplier base.”

21

05/09/2017 16:42

RETAIL

NEWS

Click at your convenience Sainsbury’s has laid out plans to bring Argos’s click-and-collect service to 100 convenience stores following a successful trial across a handful of Sainsbury’s Local locations. Shoppers will be able to collect Argos and Tu clothing purchases they place online at the new partner locations, with plans to have the full service up and running by the end of this year.

Sainsbury’s CEO Mike Coupe said the move, along with Argos’ digital offering and supply chain, would give the retailer a “reasonably powerful combination to compete in future”.

Breaking bad run Asda posted its first quarter of growth in three years recently, breaking a spell of disappointing results that began in 2014.

Like-for-like sales lifted 1.8 per cent in the three weeks to the end of July, a striking turn around when compared with the 7.5 per cent sales decline the Walmart-owned supermarket experienced in the same period last year.

Asda boss Sean Clarke added: “Our continued focus on delivering great value and service meant 275,000 new customers chose to shop at Asda in Q2, particularly during Easter, which saw us return to positive comparative growth.

“Recognition should go to our store colleagues for the progress made from 2016, but we know we need to continue to up our game to be in the best shape possible.”

B&M swoops on Heron Discount retailer B&M acquired Heron Food Group’s grocery chain of 251 stores in a deal worth £152m. B&M boss Simon Arora said the move would add “proven discount convenience grocery brand to our own structural growth story”.

He pointed out that while the convenience sector was enjoying a period of rapid growth and success, much of it was based on premium-priced products.

B&M said Heron’s turnover hit £274m in 2016, with three per cent growth and pre-tax profits of £8.6m.

22

News Retail.indd 1

Co-Op is nicer for

Nisa

In other Sainsbury’s news, the supermakret pumped the brakes on its £130m takeover bid for Nisa, fearing potential intervention from the Competition and Markets Authority.

The concerns arose in light of CMA investigations into Tesco’s merger with Booker — a similar, though bigger deal to the one Sainsbury’s was exploring with Nisa.

The convenience chain, owned by its members who vote on any deal, is now considering a larger offer from Co-Op that analysts say is a better option. The CMA would be less likely to get involved in the merger given the joint market share would be lower than Sainsbury’s 12 per cent alone. A Co-Op spokesman confirmed the retailer has entered a period of exclusivity with Nisa to carry out “more detailed due diligence”.

Duo join toy group Toymaster welcomed two new retailers last month, adding Deegans in Co. Wexford and Aberdeen-based Wills Toyshop as members of the toy buying group.

To get in touch with Deegans, email Anthony Deegan at adeegan@woodbinewholesale.com, and for Wills Toyshop contact Brendan Will on brendan@arwill.co.uk.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 11:09

Brought to you by

licensing T O D A Y

LICENSING

NEWS

W O R L D W I D E

Stable mates The brand-new range of My Little Pony toys and accessories has launched at Argos, bringing more than 30 new products, from character figurines to playsets and movie scene collections, to fans.

“We love this new range of My Little Pony toys for children, and have no doubt they will too,” said Linzi Walker, Chief Toy Buyer, at Argos. “In a year of blockbuster animated film releases, it’s great to offer children the chance to enjoy PonyVille beyond the movie screen.”

Although eager fans will have to wait until 20 October to see My Little Pony: The Movie in cinemas, they can get their hands on toys from the film right now.

From cute character toys to spectacular castles, there is sure to be something for everyone looking to join the pony club.

TRUE MASTERS Toy State has been appointed global master toy licensee for Guru Studio’s hit new Netflix Original, True and the Rainbow Kingdom.

The toy company will bring the pre-school series, which is brought to life through a diverse cross-category range featuring figures, role-play, plus, playsets and dolls. The partnership marks a major expansion into new product categories for Toy State and part of the company’s overall global growth strategy.

“We’re elated to be partnering with Guru Studio to create an innovative new toy line with the same magical quality that makes the series so special,” said Toy State President Andy Friess. “We’ve long been category leaders at retail, and we’re excited to be delivering toys inspired by the worlds of play and imagination found in True.”

New GM for Warner Bros.

Hot property Playmobil’s hotly anticipated How To Train Your Dragon has hit retail shelves around the UK – and already its popularity is catching like wildfire.

This is Playmobil’s second venture into entertainment brand licensing, following the release of its Ghostbusters range earlier this year.

Fans of the DreamWorks animation can care for their own pet dragon with Toothless, Stormfly and Thunderclaw all part of the new range, alongside favourite characters from the film and TV property’s Island of Berk.

Jamie Dickinson, Marketing Manager, Playmobil, said: “We are looking forward to seeing children enjoy bringing one of their favourite films to life.

We can’t wait to see the new adventures Hiccup, Toothless and their friends get up to when in the hands of our fans.”

SEPTEMBER 2017 News Licensing.indd 1

Rachel Wakley has been appointed General Manager of Warner Bros. Consumer Products UK & Ireland.

Formerly Head of Licensing at Tesco, Rachel will be charged with leading the Warner Bros. Consumer Products team in the region, promoting the company’s crosscategory plans across retail, and managing and developing a diverse portfolio of brands and licensees. Rachel will also join Warner Bros. UK’s Executive Committee.

Super slime Zimpli Kids is set to launch an extra special new line of its Gelli Baff and Slime Baff products in partnership with DC. The new range will feature Superman Blue Slime Baff, Wonder Woman Glittery Pink Gelli Baff, plus brand-new and exclusive Slime Baff colours Batman Black Slime Baff and Joker Putrid Purple Slime Baff.

23

05/09/2017 11:11

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

Do the robot!

MATTEL 01628 500000 www.fisher-price.co.uk

Elf and safety PMS INTERNATIONAL 01268 505050 www.pmsinternational.com How do you monitor behaviour in the Christmas countdown? A great new addition to the Elves Behavin’ Badly range, the Elf Surveillance Dummy Security Camera is a fun, fake camera to be placed around the house. It’s a fun way to let children know that Elfie is watching them and sends daily reports to Santa. It includes a flashing LED light to convince little ones the Elves are keeping an eye on the house! Available now from PMS International.

24

What's New.indd 1

The latest product in the Fisher-Price Think & Learn range, Teach ’n Tag Movi is a cool little robot friend who’s ready to roll - and he’s getting little ones moving and learning along with him.

With three exciting ways to play, kids choose from Alpha Fun Actions, Think & Move Shapes and Learn & Play Games. Whether he’s asking questions to engage critical thinking skills, prompting little ones to follow directions to a fun game, or getting silly on the dance floor, Teach ’n Tag Movi encourages pre-schoolers to get their minds and bodies moving while teaching them to follow directions and think critically about the world around them.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 11:17

NEW All aboard!

SMART TOYS AND GAMES 01903 885669 www.smartmax.eu The magic of SmartMax continues to grow with two brand new My First sets, Safari Animals and Animal Train.

A magnetic construction toy that has been designed to encourage logical thinking and imaginative play for children from the age of oneplus, My First: Safari Animals features all the favourite animals: crocodile, hippo, lion, rhino, elephant and giraffe.

The bright and bold colours with a soft, tactile feel will stimulate any child, and as the magnetic bars are interchangeable, mixing up these well-known creatures is a great way to test their knowledge and understanding.

Encouraging creativity and hand-eye coordination, the unique My First: Animal Train set will enable little ones to build their very own train while gaining an understanding of magnetism. The simple, yet effective design aids children of all ages to engage with the product, which educates and entices. All parts are 3cm-plus, so SmartMax is super safe and will keep children highly engaged.

Speed demon REVELL 01296 660291 revell.de/en The new Demon from Revell is a mid-size camera drone for use indoors and out. Its 720p HD camera with manually-adjustable lens can shoot both stills and video, and a slot accepts micro SD cards to allow download/sharing of captured images.

Demon has three speed/skill settings, headless steering assist, auto-motor start, altitude hold and auto-land features, plus it can perform flips in all directions — not bad for a drone measuring just 20cm without its blade guards fitted! However, what makes Demon different from the rest is its flight time — up to 20 minutes per charge is possible from its included high-capacity LiPo battery pack, giving users never-before-available time to compose and shoot the perfect image or video, or both!

Hero range WORLDS APART 0845 602 2119 www.worldsapart.com Worlds Apart will be launching its brand new PJ Masks range for Christmas 2017. A huge focus behind the superhero brand will back the range launching in October covering Worlds Apart’s key categories of home, toy and outdoor.

Originally planned as a tight range for Q4, with a wider offering in 2018 and beyond, Worlds Apart has broadened its offering for this year following increased demand from consumers and retailers alike. The fun and colourful range includes everything from a Cat Car feature play tent for active adventures inside or out, to a GoGlow Pal night light plush, offering comfort and security at bedtime.

The PJ Masks range also features a ReadyBed, entry-pricepoint play tent and a comprehensive home range including a bed, multi storage unit, bookcase and table and chairs — everything a superhero in the making needs.

The SS18 range will then include a brand-new GoGlow Bendables lighting SKU. Available in Catboy, Owlette and Gekko designs, GoGlow Bendables are characterised night lights featuring light-up eyes and flexible, bendy arms that allow children to position their superhero light wherever they are.

There will also be a new Headphone Hat added to the range.

“

We are really excited about the launch of our PJ Masks range for Q4 of this year and beyond.

The feedback from retailers on the licence has been very positive and we have a strong range across of our best performing lines.

Lucy Wynn Jones, Head of Licensing at Worlds Apart

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COVER FEATURE KD UK

Snap to it!

Kurio Watch 2.0

This year saw the launch of several new products in KD UK’s Kurio range of childsafe technology — and among the most exciting is the arrival of the Kurio Snap and a revamped and improved Kurio Watch 2.0

T

apping into the trend of selfies and Instagram, the Kurio Snap is a portable, digital photo booth – but with the Kurio closed platform that enables parents to rest easy in the knowledge that their kids are safe. The Kurio Snap gives children the chance to take fun pictures and selfies — alone or in a group — anywhere, at any time using the swivel lens. Packed with lots of interactive games and fun editing apps, the Kurio Snap allows children to be creative and share their images and videos via Wifi or USB connection to a printer to capture the moment. In terms of the safety of the products, KD is highly committed to ensuring this: “We don’t produce any device that allows open access to the internet if a parent doesn’t wish such access,” says Seth Bishop, MD of KD UK. “Our products are designed to either operate in closed environments or use highly developed software such as our Kurio Genius platform, which provides multiple options for parents to manage online access and time spent with their device. We also develop content and include content

The Kurio Next 2 is also part of KD UK’s kid-friendly tech range

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Retail friendly MD Seth Bishop talks us through how KD UK is supporting Kurio at retail “As a retail category, the Kurio brand offers something that is different and incremental to traditional toys and we are spending heavily on marketing in a solid window from late September through Christmas that will create strong demand.

“With the new product launches for this season we have a comprehensive line of Tablets, Smart Watches and Snap digital cameras that allows retailers to make the kind of brand statement that we’ve not been able to present before.

“We want to meet with independent retailers who want to give this category a go in a comprehensive way and we will work with interested partners to support their commitment with a programme to support merchandising and de-risk the enterprise as far as we can.

“Margins in consumer electronics are not traditionally as high in percentage terms as toys, but we have sought to provide class-leading margins for toy retailers and have ourselves seen the significant volumes that can be driven with products at very valuable price points.”

Kurio Snap

from partners that has been carefully curated to ensure it’s an appropriate fit to the age of users.”

Children the world over love to emulate what their parents are doing and this increasingly is even more the case when it comes to their use of technology.

And with the tendency towards wearable technology growing, KD UK hooked on to this current movement early on and launched the Kurio Watch 1.0 in 2016. Such was the success — UK retailers sold 350,000 units bewteen September and December 2016 — that KD UK introduced two new versions of the children’s smartwatch.

The Kurio Kurio Watch 2.0 is an updated version of the original, with four different watch bands available to help make each watch unique to the user. Offering many of the popular features from Kurio Watch 1.0, including messaging,

motion sensor games, an activity tracker, a camera and new photo filters, the Kurio Watch 2.0 also includes 256mb of memory and Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity.

But what next for KD UK and the Kurio range? Seth and the team at KD are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve.

“As far as the next big thing we see a continued demand for mobile digital devices and a continuation of trend towards small mobile platforms at the expense of traditional laptops, PCs and gaming consoles. New technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence will in due course make their presence felt in the toy market but there is work to be done to get these absolutely right for a young and sensitive audience. We also see elasticity in the Kurio brand to allow the future introduction of some more novel and toyetic electronics. Watch this space!”

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 11:20

Spotlight on TRENDS UK Kids can learn alongside their favourite blue engine with the Learn with Thomas Alphaphonics from Trends UK. The interactive toy teaches fundamental skills through seven fun and engaging modes of play

ildren h c p e e Will k ng and learni d for e n i a t r e ent hours!

Seven different games help kids with their spelling

Double-sided handle makes it suitable for kids to hold either with their right or left hand when playing

ith Helps children w ation hand-eye co-ordin lls, and vocabulary ski from letter and n, number recognitio n to communicatio d an skills, and memory lls concentration ski

er to Easy-to-use slid mes select different ga Contact Trends UK

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Tel: 01295 768078 Web: www.trendsuk.co.uk

Spotlight Trends.indd 1

05/09/2017 16:45

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Ahead of the game Games and puzzles are experiencing a period of dramatic growth and consumer popularity.

With Christmas on the horizon, TnP took a look at what to expect from this vibrant category in the second half of the year

U

ndoubtedly one of the most vibrant sectors of growth for the toy industry for the past several years, games and puzzles continue to raise the bar in 2017 — and the peak Christmas period is just on the horizon. Games and puzzles come into their own during the cold months of the year, especially as friends and family gather to celebrate the festive season. They’re the perfect solution for getting teens to put their smartphones down for an hour or two, and their ability to get the whole family laughing and interacting has seen a huge rise in sales and popularity.

But that’s not to say the sector has had a quiet start to the year, quite the opposite in fact. Games

“

We’ve had a really strong year across all our adult puzzles so far and it’s great to see continued growth YOY

Stuart Middleton, Jumbo Games

Jumbo Games and puzzles is the fastest growing Supercategory that NPD covers, up 23 per cent over the past 12 months, from August 2016 to July 2017. Worth a whopping £255m in that period, the category has become a staple for retailers of all sizes.

For Mark Mitchell, owner of Crocodile Toy Shop in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, a refresh of games has given the category new life. “We have turned our specialist games around for the upper age

and grown-up markets, so wooden games but in the specialist sector,” he says. “We use companies like Big Potato. Traditional values games seem to be coming back in, and it’s all about going back to root values.”

Game for growth Jumbo Games, a leading name in puzzles, continues to see year-onyear growth across its ever-growing portfolio for kids and adults. The company remains the UK’s number one Adult Puzzle and Accessories manufacturer, according to NPD, with growth of 20 per cent in the first half of 2017. To further stoke the engine, the company is releasing more than 30 brand new adult

Tomy

Did you know…

The games and puzzles category was worth £255m in the 12 months ending July 2017, according to NPD

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We asked…

Thames & Kosmos puzzles for AW, the most recent 10 from the Falcon de luxe brand.

“We’ve had a really strong year across all our adult puzzles so far and it’s great to see continued growth YOY, even before we hit the key selling period,” says Stewart Middleton, Managing Director at Jumbo Games. “Following its anniversary year, our Falcon de Luxe brand continues to remain a favourite with puzzlers across the UK and we’re excited to launch these new products as we move into the autumn season.”

Other key releases for Jumbo include the 20th anniversary Wasgij puzzles, with two additions coming with a free 1,000-piece pack-in product to offer fans of the brands phenomenal added value.

Gearing up for Christmas Tomy, is another company gearing up for a strong Christmas of gaming.

Since launching in August 2016, Tomy’s Greedy Granny ended the year as one of NPD’s top six new kids’ games, YTD 2016, December.

With a retail tour for the quirky family game just about to kick off at Smyths Toys Superstores, it’s sure to be another top-seller for 2017.

“Greedy Granny has proved to be a top selling children’s game, thanks to its quirkiness,” says Severine Hemms, Tomy’s Senior Trade Marketing Manager. “Kids just love the idea of stealing biscuits from Greedy Granny without

You recently won a prestigious Spiel des Jahres with your EXIT games.

What impact do you expect the award to have on sales and visibility of the brand?

“We’re really hoping that the SDJ Kennerspiel award will make us more prominent in the market. We have a wide variety of games and it’s great when they get acknowledged in this way. Demand for the Exit games has really increased since the announcement and it looks as though this will only continue to grow.”

Joanna Drage, Sales Director, Thames & Kosmos

waking her up!

“The Greedy Granny Tour is a great opportunity to share the fun and mischief of the game ahead of the Christmas season. We know that in games, getting children and adults to play the game is the winning formula to raise interest and drive sales.”

And it’s been a year of growth and awards for Thames & Kosmos, a company that has The launched significantly more games in 2017 than in any games industry other year. doesn’t seem “The last 12 months has to be slowing seen the popularity of our games grow enormously,” says down at all, Joanna Drage, Sales Director, and nor are we!

Thames & Kosmos. “YTD sales are double, compared Joanna Drage, to this time last year and Thames & Kosmos we’re expecting sales to grow even more in the coming months to Christmas. It’s well known that a large proportion of business is done in Q4 when it comes to games, however, all three titles in the Exit series have

“

consistently been best sellers since their arrival earlier this year, which goes to prove just how popular this sector is becoming!”

Thames & Kosmos’ Exit games secured a prestigious Spiel des Jahres award earlier this year, but the company won’t be resting on its laurels anytime soon.

“We’re still so surprised at how well games are performing for us, and we hope this continues,” adds Joanna. “We’ve got more titles launching in the next couple of months, and then more being released at Toy Fair 2018! The games industry doesn’t seem to be slowing down at all, and nor are we!”

With peak period still to come, now is the time for retailers to ensure their shelves are fully stocked with the latest and greatest games and puzzles. Turn over for an in-depth look at some of the category’s most promising launches, established best-sellers, and twists on tradition that are sure to take the category higher in the coming months.

NPD’s Top 5 Best Selling Games & Puzzles Items - YTD July 2017 Pokemon Sun And Moon Booster Pack Pokemon Sun And Moon Starter Deck Monopoly Standard Pokemon Legends Of Alola Dobble

Esdevium Games Esdevium Games Hasbro (Corp) Esdevium Games Esdevium Games

Esdevium Games

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© 2017 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

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© 2017 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Fun for the whole family

HASBRO 020 8569 1234 www.hasbro.com Get involved with new games from Hasbro Gaming, including innovative game Simon Optix, challenge games such as Fantastic Gymnastics and Get a Grip, and new takes on classics such as Pie Face Sky High and Monopoly Gamer, as well as toilet flushing hilarity from Toilet Trouble, more mouthpiece challenges with Speak Out Kids vs Parents and cracking family fun with Egged On. Get a Grip makes simple tasks hilariously hard because no thumbs are allowed! Players

wrap their thumbs in the bands which come included to make them utterly useless, and then try to perform the Draw it, Sculpt it, or Do it challenges listed on the cards. Players earn cards by completing challenges and the first to 3 wins!

Monopoly joins forces with your favourite Nintendo characters in Monopoly Gamer but instead of using standard Monopoly tokens, this thrilling game features the iconic Super Mario characters Mario, Princess Peach, Yoshi, and Donkey Kong, each with their own special powers that come out during the gameplay and players finish the game by defeating Bowser at the end! It’s not just about money in this game – players earn points by buying Properties, collecting Coins, and beating Bosses.

See the world through the Simon Optix game! The innovative Simon Optix game is a wearable headset electronic game

Pie Face The hilarious and wildly popular Pie Face game now lets players test their strength in Pie Face Sky High as they attempt to give their opponent a face full of whipped cream.

Pie Face Sky High is set up like a strengthtester carnival game, towering over 3 feet tall! While one player stands and looks through the mask, the other spins the spinner to see the difficulty level and the number of swings, then hits the base plate with the plastic hammer hard enough to “pie” their opponent! Score a point each time an opponent gets “pied” and the first player to reach 3 points wins.

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of lights and sounds in which players must repeat random light-led sequences by moving their hands over the sensors in the correct order. Simon Optix senses your moves with touchfree technology and as players successfully complete levels, the game becomes more and more challenging and complicated.

Play solo or challenge friends!

The Egged On game is Hasbro’s hilarious twist on the popular egg roulette challenge, and players Get into the swing of take turns picking plastic things with the new game eggs from the egg carton based on the bottleto “crack” them on their flip challenge, Fantastic heads. Some of the eggs Gymnastics. Players need are filled with water and to get the rhythm and players never know which speed just right for the one they’ve got in their gymnast figure to rotate hand. If a player presses an around the high bar. At egg against their head and the right moment, press it splashes water, they’re and hold the release out. The last player left in button to dismount the the game wins. gymnast, and try to stick Filled with suspense and the perfect landing to excitement, Toilet Trouble earn the most points. is a new hilarious game for both kids and families. The aim of the game is to flush

Fantastic Gymnastics

September 2017 Feature Games and Puzzles.indd 4

but be the last player left without getting sprayed.

Players take turns spinning the toilet paper roll which will dictate how many times each competitor must flush the toilet handle. If the flushing sound is heard, but no water is sprayed they are safe, but watch out for the random spray of water as that player will be eliminated. The unit is easy to set up and put away, and with every flush comes toilet flushing sound effects.

Speak Out Kids vs

Parents brings laughout-loud fun for the whole family, with the ridiculous mouthpiece challenge game. Mums and dads pick from the Parents deck of cards, filled with typical phrases, such as “This playroom is a positive pigsty!”, whilst the kids choices include “What a bummer, brother,” as their teammates attempt to decipher the phrase to earn the card.

Those with the most cards will result as the winning team.

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05/09/2017 12:48

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Figures of fun TOMY 01392 281928 www.tomy.com

Ranking now within the top three manufacturers in children’s games, Tomy continues to drive the children’s games category with new products including Tickle Me Feet, the pirate themed game challenges players to win the treasure by completing tasks during the allocated time, while having their feet tickled by the other remaining players; Phil the Fridge, a fast paced game that challenges players to get their coloured food shapes into Phil’s fridge before he decides to pop open; and despite only being released last August, Tomy’s Greedy Granny has already gained a place as one of the top six new children’s games.

The toy giant will follow on its success with the launch of Fizzy Dizzy Hippo this month, having already won an award for best new game in BHTA’s Best New Toy Awards, Fizzy Dizzy Hippo is a hilarious game sure to inspire a lot of laughter between families.

Tomy has also expanded its collection of Pop Up games with the addition of two new licensed products including Pop Up Minions in July and Pop Up BB8 in September.

Join the action JOHN ADAMS 01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk Joining the range of kids’ action games is Mr Bucket. Players aged four plus must pick a colour and race to be the first to scoop up all the balls of their colour as Mr Bucket moves around the floor.

Also joining the John Adams action games portfolio this year is Giggle Wiggle. Designed for children aged four-plus, players press Giggle Wiggle’s button to watch him start dancing to the samba music. Then they must race to be the first to stack all of their coloured balls on Giggle Wiggle’s hands as he twists and turns around.

In the fast-paced action game, Don’t be a Donkey, players aged six-plus must wear their donkey headbands and pass the cards until they get a full house. At this point they shout ‘Donkey!’ and grab a carrot. The last person to react must lift up one of the donkey ears on their headband. If a player misses out three times they lose the game.

A new take on the retro classic, Tetris Dual brings the iconic video game to the table top. Featuring two thrilling games, players must go head to head in a

strategic battle and race against the clock to create rows.

Rubik’s Junior is Rubik’s in animal form. Available as bear, bunny, kitten and puppy characters, little ones can twist and turn the crazy animals to create wacky mixed-up characters, then keep twisting until they solve the puzzle.

The award winning Doggie Doo also has a brand-new look for 2017, now featuring a cute new dog and improved food.

Joining the Rummikub family of games, Rummikub Twist adds an extra twist to the classic game. Three new jokers, Colour Change, Mirror and Double join the standard Joker to add more strategy, fun, challenge and pace to gameplay.

The new addition sits alongside Rummikub Classic, Travel and Prime and Word versions.

All games will be supported by strong TV, Digital and PR campaigns from launch.

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05/09/2017 12:50

NEW

NEW

TOP-SELLING WASGIJ PUZZLES FOR CHRISTMAS! NEW

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CONTACT YOUR JUMBO SALES REP FOR MORE INFORMATION Jumbo Games &DUWHUV 5RZ +DW¿HOG 3DUN +DW¿HOG 8. $/ 1% 7HOHSKRQH (PDLO XN VDOHVKRWOLQH#MXPER HX www.jumbo.eu

Jumbo Ad 1.indd 1

15/08/2017 12:30

Feature

Games & Puzzles

Riding the rails Esdevium

01420 593593 www.esdeviumgames.com

Facing the music Paul Lamond Games 020 7254 0100 www.paul–lamond.com Now in stock are two fantastic additions to Paul Lamond’s family games range. The new quiz-style Now That’s What I Call Music board game is based on one of the most successful music compilation series of all time and will see music fans test their musical knowledge with questions from the 80s, 90s and 21st century. There are also covers to sing and song titles to be mimed ensuring that the whole family will be entertained with this great new board game.

The new Who Dares Wins board game, based on the hit TV show, is a game of lists, bidding dares and steals. This family game will have teams bidding and challenging on how many items they can name from a particular category list which team will have the courage to hold their nerve and win the valuable places?

The popularity of Murder Mystery Dinner Parties is most definitely on the increase, so Paul Lamond Games have added an intriguing new title to their successful Murder Mystery portfolio. The brand new 6-8 player Murder Mystery Dinner Party Game; A Slice of Murder joins the thriving range that includes The Brie, The Bullet and The Black Cat and The Diamonds, The Dagger and One Classy Dame.

Silly Spaghetti, Colour Cube Sudoku, Lunar Landing and Roller Coaster Challenge are just a few of the new titles that are also now available in Paul Lamond’s extensive children’s games portfolio.

These action-packed logic games are certain to keep kids entertained this winter.

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Esdevium Games has been able to grow some of its most successful and bestknown brands in 2017, including Dobble, Rory’s Story Cubes, Ticket to Ride and Cortex Challenge.

Moving into Q4 Esdevium will continue to focus on these key properties in addition to some new game launches.

Celebrating the Year of the Train, a wide-reaching campaign will raise awareness of the successful game of train travel adventure, Ticket to Ride. In Q4 the campaign will really steam along with the games mascot, Max, embarking on an epic cross-country adventure across Europe. Beginning in London and running events in each country, Max will travel to Paris, Munich and finally Copenhagen. All stages of the journey will be filmed at quirky locations with interesting guests joining him. Esdevium will also release dedicated Year of the Train kits to allow for in-store events and competitions across the UK. Esdevium will also release three brand new Ticket to Ride games in the form of Ticket to Ride Germany (out now), Ticket to Ride France (coming soon) and Ticket to Ride Europe First Journey. Both Germany and France games feature new mechanics and adapted gameplay to make each a unique Ticket to Ride experience for fans of the franchise. Ticket to Ride First Journey Europe offers the same celebrated gameplay from Ticket to Ride Europe in a simplified form, with a beautifully-illustrated and condensed European map, enabling the basics of Ticket to Ride to be enjoyed by children as young as six.

Esdevium will also release two brand new versions of brain-training card game, Cortex Challenge. Cortex 2 will include a host of new challenges as well as developing the existing challenges to test different parts of the brain! Cortex 2 will be available in both in both regular and kids editions.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 16:46

THE PERFECT COLLECTION OF CHRISTMAS T & WINTER THEMED PUZZLES…

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Jumbo Ad 2.indd 1

15/08/2017 12:31

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Crack it open SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmaster.com New for this autumn Spin Master is bringing out a range of games based on this year’s hottest properties, including Hatchimals Eggventure Game and JoJo Siwa Bust a Bow Dance Game.

Players can test their memory and strategy skills or get up and dance with these great family games. Available in time for Christmas, the Hatchimals Eggventure board game is a perfect gift for HatchiFans everywhere and features four exclusive Hatchimals characters – one of which is found within a Hatchimals Colleggtible egg. The object of the game is to travel around the Giggling Tree hatching eggs and bringing your Hatchimals home. The first player to collect all his or her Hatchimals wins! The game comes complete with the Hatchimals figures, cards and tokens required to play the game again and again.

The JoJo Siwa Bust a Bow Dance Game is sure to be a hit with Siwanators all over the world. Encouraging physical play through

dance and movement, the game comes with a dance mat and mini JoJo bows that players place in their hair. The object of the game is to complete a dance activity without your mini bows falling off!

Kids can challenge their friends and family to a dance off in this active and fun game.

Just two of the many items in its portfolio, Spin Master offers a wide range of quality family-friendly games, innovative puzzles and contemporary and evergreen licensed products for game and puzzle lovers of all ages.

In the game CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com When it comes to games, look no further than Character Options’ portfolio which offers a variety of exciting game-play patterns for kids and adults to discover!

Boom Blast Stix is the explosive stacking game featuring sensitive interlocking springs that can trigger at any time.

The aim of the game is to stack as many of the 32 interlocking pieces before they explode. Presented in a tube which doubles as the tower’s base, this game is unpredictable, addictive and fun for all ages.

Nerves are also being pushed to the limits with the jump-scare Five Nights at Freddy’s game. Freddy, the demon teddy holds the tokens and is resting peacefully when the lights are low. Players must then take suspense-filled turns spinning the dial and taking tokens from under his nose. One token too far and they wake Freddy from his slumber, unleashing his fury.

Inspired by classic games such as Tetris and the Rubik’s cube, FlipSlide is a highly addictive and fast moving game which has players flip and slide the blocks to solve the puzzles.

Pokémon Trainer Guess is the electronic guessing game which asks players questions to guess which Pokémon character they’re thinking of. The ball uses speech recognition technology to read the user’s mind and the aim of the game is to add all 151 characters to your electronic collection.

Another brilliant licensed option from Character is the hugely popular Cars 3 Piston Cup Race Game. Featuring two slot-style tracks and buttons which players must use to frantically race Lightning McQueen and new challenger from the film, Jackson Storm, to the finish line in order to win the Piston Cup. However, this race isn’t as straightforward as it seems; when the light turns green, players pump the button as fast as possible to get ahead but when light turns red they must stop or be sent to the start again.

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TomyGames-ToyWorld_230x315.pdf

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The next big player in Children’s Games!

Top 6 new Children’s Game*

+95%

Pop up Pirate

growth*

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Top 10

Greedy Granny

Children’s Game*

Screwball Scramble

New for A/W 17 Tickle Me Feet

TV CAMPAIGN

ONLINE VIDEO

Phil the Fridge

PR STUNT

CALL THE SALES DEPARTMENT ON 01392 281928 OR EMAIL UKCUSTOMERSERVICES@TOMY.COM Tomy Toys.indd 1

Fizzy Dizzy Hippo

*NPD 2016 EPOS Value Sales - December YTD

31/08/2017 11:35

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Exit makes an entrance THAMES AND KOSMOS 01580 212 000 www.thamesandkosmos.com

Piecing it together JUMBO GAMES 01707 289289 www.jumbo.eu Jumbo Games remains the UK’s number one adult puzzle and accessories’ manufacturer and half-year NPD sales show that the company is showing growth of plus 20 per cent with YTD June data.

With 35 brand new adult puzzles for autumn/winter, the company is expecting this to continue.

Wasgij, continues to lead the way for the manufacturer, driving year on year increases in sales during its 20th anniversary year. Key to the growth this year has been the special edition Wasgij Original 27: The 20th Party Parade! 1000-piece puzzle, that also includes a free 1000-piece puzzle. Other key Wasgij puzzles include the Wasgij Original 26: Celebrity Chief Chef! and the must-have Wasgij Christmas 13: Turkey’s Delight which contains two 1000-piece puzzles for the price on one. Both these new releases offer retailers and consumer fantastic added-value.

Jumbo’s Falcon de Luxe range of traditional puzzles is also showing substantial growth throughout 2017 with its well-loved collection of nostalgic puzzles, and half-year NPD figures show the brand is up 20 per cent and set for continued growth into the Christmas period.

To continue this growth, Jumbo have released 10 brand new Falcon de Luxe puzzles this month to add to the 30 new releases that are have already been released this year. These new puzzles cover the traditional Falcon themes of Nostalgia, Scenery, festive and cottages, across varying piece counts from 500 to 1000 pieces, with autumn and themes featuring heavily for the key puzzle selling period.

Highlights to the range include the new Falcon de Luxe Santa’s Christmas Helpers is a limited edition 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle that includes a free 1000-piece puzzle making it the perfect gift for Christmas.

Other highlights in the range include the Falcon de Luxe, The Christmas Journey that is a 200XL piece puzzle. Seasonal Cheer, The Writer’s Cottage, Festive Skaters 1000-piece puzzles.

Jumbo Games continues to retain the number one spot in the UK with its Portapuzzle and puzzle, and roll puzzle accessories.

Highlights of the ranges include the Puzzle Mates Portapuzzle de Luxe which can store jigsaw puzzles up to 1000 pieces securely.

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Further signaling the increasing popularity of the exit room trend in the UK, Thames and Kosmos UK is adding three more games to its Exit: The Game range.

In Exit: The Forgotten Island, you’re on the perfect sailing excursion. But then you spot something on the horizon, dark clouds are rolling in and soon darkness has surrounded you. A mighty gust of wind capsizes your boat and you are knocked unconscious. When you wake, you are on a black sand beach. with no sign of your boat.

Everything on this island seems to be secured with locks… and you must figure out all the combinations to open the locks in to order to escape. Can you solve the riddles left for you and escape the island?

In Exit: The Polar Station, you belong to a large research organization, which is divided between several stations. As part of Division IMB-Q-12, you are researching climate change at the North Pole. Everything is strictly secret. Suddenly the evacuation alarm goes off and you run to the door, but it has already been locked. Through the window you can see your colleagues run to the helicopters. You are left alone in the freezing Arctic. You crawl into an adjacent station via a ventilation shaft but the door is already locked. The lab is devastated but you find a notebook and a strange disk. Everything in the room is secured with numbered locks. If you can figure out all of the codes to unlock the locks in time, can you escape?

In Exit: The Forgotten Castle, you’re going to an idyllic village in the mountains. Your mission is to solve the puzzles in order to escape. If you fail, your creepy host may never let you leave again.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:53

TnP Boom Blast Stix V3.pdf

1

18/08/2017

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Character Boom Blast Games and Puzzles.indd 1

18/08/2017 16:54

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Top banana BANANAGRAMS 020 7298 9500 www.bananagrams.com The Re-Gifter, The Thief, Switcheroo, Pouch Head... these are just some of the 14 chaos-inducing Party Power tiles in the new Bananagrams Party edition.

Each tile gives the receiving player the power to unleash a special action on the opponent of their choice! Whether it’s making them play without using their thumbs, or forcing them to do a lap around the table, each action is sure to cause mayhem while players race to use all their letter tiles and complete their own word grids. A sociable spin on the classic anagram game that drives you bananas, Bananagrams Party is available now.

Also available is My First Bananagrams, a new title for the younger player. The iconic Bananagrams pouch is now a ripening green and, in response to customer requests,

contains colourful lower-case letter tiles.

The collection of fun games within caters to a wide range of reading abilities. There are 10 curriculum-based mini games for early learners, and word game challenges which grow in difficulty as the child’s skill level advances. This culminates in a simplified version of Bananagrams, and introduces children to the classic game that sees players racing to complete their own word grid. My First Bananagrams uniquely includes new doubletiles with vowel-teams, word families and digraphs. This makes it the perfect game for children as they learn to read and spell.

The original Bananagrams game has sold more than eight million copies in 30 plus countries globally since launching in 2006, and is loved by an army of fans including the cast of ITV’s Downton Abbey, Dame Judi Dench, Scarlett Johansson and many more. The Bananagrams Challenge, a primary school tournament for children in Key Stage Two is now in its third year in the UK.

Total recall CHEATWELL GAMES 02392 524098 www.cheatwell.com Cheatwell has a reputation for easy to learn, out of the box family games and a raft of new titles joins their tried-and tested range in 2017.

Launched at Toy Fair earlier this year, three fun titles all super simple to learn, open and play, with no complicated rules but plenty to keep your brain buzzing. Try to find missing animals in Silly Safari, learn to talk like a Caveman or collect sets of cards to Lift Off. Back by popular demand is Topix, the rapid recall race. Joining Topix in this fantastic new format is Host Your Own Quiz, another Cheatwell favourite that’s still packed with all the features you expect from their great value family games.

Three new trivia games are here in time for Christmas family fun. The Quizmaster Range of three themed quizzes are a double challenge, it’s not just what you know it’s what you roll that will help you win.

The build-your-own range has a new addition that will be flying off shelves – the Supermarine Spitfire. This clever puzzle needs no tools or glue to assemble and is a great gift for model fans and plane enthusiasts alike.

The traditional dexterity and reasoning puzzles have not been forgotten either with The Great Zucchini range sure to delight — starting with chunky metal puzzles to elaborate wooden logic problems. Plus, a new range of pick up puzzles and trivia completes the range with a pocket friendly price.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Terrific trivia BIG POTATO

Let’s twist again!

GIBSONS 020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Gibsons has lots of brand new products arriving this September, the first of which is the latest addition to the Iconic Brands Collection, the licensed range which combines cleverly-designed puzzles with largerthan-life packaging.

The 250-piece, doublesided Wall’s Ice Cream Twister puzzle is presented in a giant tin replica of the iconic green and white ice lolly. With 250 mouth-watering pieces, the puzzle is guaranteed to bring back warm summer memories!

Following the success of the TFL licensed card game, Mind the Gap, Gibsons have another new card game coming this September. Chicken Out! is the feather-ruffling card game for two to six players.

Players must take it in turns to play cards from their hand with the aim of reaching 21, but there are hidden obstacles in the form of 10 cheeky foxes that will either help or hinder players’ chances of winning. Presented in a beautifully designed CDU, Chicken Out! is the perfect stocking filler for children aged seven and up.

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07472 824 526 www.bigpotato.co.uk The creator of Linkee, now licensed to John Adams, is back with Colourbrain, one of three new releases from Big Potato this year.

Players split into teams, and each team is given 11 different coloured cards. A colourrelated question is called out and teams must answer by placing a colour (or colours) face down on the table. The first team to do so shouts out “Colourbrain!” which gives the other teams 10 seconds to answer before the time is up.

Questions range from “What colour is a baby swan?” to “What colour is Charlie Brown’s shirt?”

The scoring system adds a twist to Colourbrain as teams only earn points when other teams make mistakes.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Hop to it!

SMART GAMES 01903 885669 www.smartgames.eu The magic of SmartGames grows, as two new games are introduced to the growing range, Jump In’ and IQ Focus.

Bright colours, fun relatable rabbits and a multitude of different solutions, Jump In’ will have little ones as young as seven puzzling for hours.

With themes that appeal to both boys and girls, mums and dads, this exciting new game is a must have for any family, whether it be at home or on the go. With pieces that are a toy within themselves, these delightful little games come in a compact case, so are the perfect companion for summer travels. This brain teaser contains 60 multi-level challenges ranging from the very easy to expert.

Get the rabbits to safety in their burrows by manoeuvring around the board, but be careful - you can only slide the foxes, and jump over the mushrooms. What may seem like a simple solution soon becomes a challenge; the perfect way to encourage children to plan, problem solve and use logical thinking.

Easy to pick up, but hard to put down; Smart has added IQ

Focus to the popular IQ range. Following the global success of IQ Puzzler Pro, IQ Focus boasts being the most challenging game yet…. not one for the faint hearted. Using the popular tried and tested method of working through the challenge book at your own pace, this educational and enticing game encourages players to focus on the central 3x3 squares to find the solution to the puzzle. Stay focused, with 120 multi-level challenges across five different levels, this unique and portable game will soon become your brain’s best friend.

Get smart OMNI GENEIUS 0208 123 7973 www.omnigeneius.co.uk Unlike many other board games one of the key features of Omni GENEius products is the motivational rewarding system (stars/medals) also known as the Omnicians Program.

Fun Genes is an evolutionary wooden block set for creative play, storytelling and imagination development is a set with multiple intelligence activities for three years onwards. The set contains 40 wooden blocks with 240 Ideas and 24-plus educational and creative subjects.

Smarty Genes - An abstract and advanced wooden block set for creative play, mini puzzles, learning various patterns and concepts. The set contains 38 Wooden Blocks with 184 Ideas and 15-plus creative concepts embedded in them.

Omni-wits is a fun-filled educational game for one to six players. The game improves memory recall, intense concentration improvement and witty moves. A game with various levels of play for kids and fastpaced advanced levels for grown-ups. Aimed at ages four-plus, it contains multiple intelligence activities.

Footy-Smart is an open-ended football strategy game that teaches players to play as a team in a fun way. Footy Smarty is designed on a unique diamond shaped grid, a completely new perspective that provides ample space to manoeuvre on the board for realistic football/soccer scenarios that has never been possible before, aimed at aged six-plus.

Omni-Tact is an evolutionary game of patriotic defence with exponential strategic options consisting of 12 simple to advanced missions. The game instils a sense of patriotism, ethically designed and positively themed around rescue, protect and defend. Played by two players, or as a four-player co-op game, the board has a diamond shaped grid of 161 Spaces with 17 Pieces per side – a new patent-pending perspective to play board games on.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

On to a winner WINNING MOVES www.winningmoves.co.uk 0207 298 9515 Winning Moves is reviving six of the most requested Retro Top Trumps titles, including: Crazy Cars, Exotic Sports Cars, Fantasy, Horror 1, Horror 2 and Today’s Strikers. You’ll get a guaranteed nostalgia hit as you discover which 90s sports car was the fastest, what 70s b-movie creature has the highest horror rating and how many international goals your favourite striker had in 1992. The packs include 30 cards with all their original artwork, in a newly designed cassette style case, presented in a cool Retro CDU.

Scratching the surface DKL MARKETING 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk DKL Marketing distributes the ultra-chic Scratch Europe range.

Bestseller from Scratch Europe is the amazing Magnetic Darts: reversible hanging darts boards which are packaged in unique tubes, designed for ages five years and up.

Not to be missed from this range is the Magnetic Darts FSDU, which holds both the small and large sized darts-tubes for effective merchandising. Also the Classic Fishing Game for ages 18 months and up. Finally the Four Cube Puzzle Farm which helps colour recognition skills, creativity and fine motor skills.

Let the games begin EDUK8 WORLDWIDE 01434 672336 www.eduk8worldwide.com Introducing Chalk and Chuckles – a range of 20 table top games, where the instructions are few, possibilities endless – and you don’t need a single battery.

The games turn playtime into learning, while maintaining the balance between skills and fun. Inspired by the latest research and created by a team of professionals in the area of child development, product design and most importantly people who love kids and know them.

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Feature

Games & Puzzles

First class portfolio Mattel 01628 500000 www.mattel.com Family favourite Scrabble is gearing up for the amazing 70th Anniversary celebrations in 2018. A bumper year will kick off this amazing milestone, with marketing, partnerships and PR. In AW17 Scrabble will launch an exciting digital-led strategic partnership with ITV across the I’m A Celebrity app and ITV hub.

Mattel introduces brand new Squawk, the egg-plosive new chicken game for children, with hilarious sounds effects and crack-able eggs! Suitable for ages four-plus, the game challenges players to win the most chicken tokens – but watch out for the exploding hen house.

Classic card game UNO expands play themes with UNO Junior and Extreme Relaunch – along with new for 2017 Disney Pixar’s Cars 3 and Emoji launching a brand-new UNO family game.

Mattel also introduces new Bounce-Off Stack ‘N’ Stunts, the ultimate in head-to-head competition, a fun new version of the game that brings a challenging stunts element to the game.

Rounding off Mattel’s portfolio is Gas Out. Be the last player to pass Guster the Gas Cloud without him passing wind and win.

Strikes, spares and smiles!

Fiesta Crafts 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk Fiesta’s Jingly Jungle Bowling is the perfect game for keeping toddlers occupied as well as developing hand-eye coordination. With six soft animal skittles to try and knock down, it’s just like real bowling, except there’s an exciting acoustic addition as each of the brightly coloured fabric pins make a jingle sound.

The ABC Bus will help children learn the alphabet in a fun and exciting way – all whilst playing games.

Each of the 26 wooden pieces are double sided with the letter on one side and an adorable character on the other. Game suggestions are included, such as matching characters, spelling out basic words, and finding the correct letter piece when given a name.

With several game ideas, the wooden ABC Bus will be played over and over again.

It takes two Orchard Toys 01953 859525 www.orchardtoys.com Traditional favourites are given an exciting, magical twist in Fairy Snakes and Ladders and Ludo. With a double-sided board featuring two classic board games in one, the game offers customers great value for money as well as being fun for the whole family. Children will love the colourful illustrations of friendly fairies and unicorns.

Animal Shapes is a simple first colour and shape matching activity for children aged 18 months and over.

Orchard Toys’ Games Compendium features four fun games in one box. These include Old Macdonald Game, Monster Dominoes, Red Dog Colour Game and Jungle Snakes & Ladders, all based on classic Orchard Toys gameplay.

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New Lamond.indd range Aug 2017 Paul 1 Advert TNP.indd 1

11/08/2017 10:45 13:50 14/08/2017

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Join the rat race!

GP FLAIR 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk GP Flair is offering endless laughter with Rat Trap, the suspense-filled action game, which puts your nerves to the test.

The aim of Rat Trap is to steal the cheese from the pesky rat trap. Designed like a real Rat Trap, this game takes suspense to a whole new level as players race to steal as much cheese as possible before they get caught. The objective is to end the game with more slices than your opponent. With 30 cheese cards included, Rat Trap has an ideal game duration and children can play on their own or with their friends.

What the doctor ordered CARTAMUNDI 01268 511522 www.cartamundi.co.uk Shuffle Go, the popular card games range by cards and board games manufacturer Cartamundi, added an exciting new edition to its collection, Shuffle Go Operation. The game challenges players to make the iconic Operation character Cavity Sam better by removing ailments on the operating table. Shuffle Go Operation adds the takeanywhere flexibility of a card game in the iconic Shuffle packaging.

Thanks to its compact size and handy case, families can play the game anywhere, turning the world into a giant playground. And that’s not all.

Cartamundi created an extra game dimension by adding an X-ray card. This magical iCard links the physical card game to an app.

Shuffle Go Operation comes with a free app that offers an easy-to-watch-andlearn video guide.

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Back to nature KIDICRAFT 01282 505988 www.kidicraft.co.uk Four more colourful Super 3D National Geographic Kids 63-piece puzzles launched by Kidicraft at Autumn Fair allow retailers to choose from over 50 magic motion puzzles.

These new puzzles appeal to children from as young as four and feature a great white shark, twin pandas, a penguin family and a beautiful seal pictured sunbathing.

Look out for more information coming soon about even more exciting designs that will be added to the already huge range of Super 3D lenticular puzzles, children’s wall posters, table placemats, notebooks and bookmarks.

There’s a specially-designed floor display unit which holds a wide selection of puzzles and there are counter and floor spinners for the other products, too.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:58

Do you know where all the exits are?

Find them all... end of September

www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk Call 01580 212000 or email sales@thamesandkosmos.co.uk for more information.

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FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Bursting with fun TRENDS UK 01295 768078 www.trendsuk.co.uk New for 2017 from MegaBleu is Tumball, the nerve-wracking beadstacking game. With every bead, the space between the coloured balls will open, make a false move and… Tumball! Add the fallen beads to your collection, the first to get rid of all their beads wins!

The potty bug-flipping game Beat the Flush sees players race catch coloured bugs with a magnetic cap and flick it into the bowl.

The winner’s the one who lands the most bugs in the bowl before it flushes.

Creepy Hand is the scary forfeit game to entertain all ages on dark and blustery nights, Who will face a ‘Truth or Dare› question?

The frantic word game, Name That, forces players to think fast to win. Person? Place? Food – name it fast!

From Zing Games comes Wet Head, the famous game that drenches losers with water following a truth or dare game continues to be popular.

Younger kids and families will have fun playing the fast-paced Stick’em game. Arm yourself with the suction cup stick, keep an eye on the picture cards placed in-front of you and match the right picture with the sound from the app.

Blast Box from Zing Toys is a suspense-filled action game! Inflate one balloon per player and place them inside the Blast Box. Players use the spinner to determine how many spikes are needed per turn. Burst a balloon and you’re out.

In pieces RAVENSBURGER 01869 363 800 www.ravensburger.com In stock and available now are jigsaw puzzles and games for PJ Masks, Despicable Me 3, Disney Cars 3, Spider-Man, Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Minnie’s Happy Helpers, Tangled, and Pokémon. The highly sought-after and hugely popular limited edition 1000-piece jigsaw for Christmas 2017 features a richly illustrated scene, showing a fancy dress party in the local village. Which One’s Santa 1000-piece will keep you guessing who the real Santa is.

Ravensburger has four children’s Christmas jigsaw puzzles available, including the new Thomas & Friends Shaped Christmas Puzzle. The giant floor puzzle is cut into 32 large chunky pieces, and it even comes with a colourful Stop Here! door hanger.

With 11 Christmas jigsaw puzzles to choose from, Ravensburger has Christmas 2017 all pieced together. Look out for the very cool Sneaker 3D puzzle that comes in three fun designs: Graffiti, American Flag or Despicable Me 3. Each plastic puzzle piece is shaped to fit perfectly with the next to create a stunning and practical desk tidy. Also available are pencil pots, and storage box 3D puzzle designs. Other 3D highlights include VW T1 Campervan, Cinderella’s Carriage, Marvel Empire State Building, and more.

Street smart LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819 380 www.learningresources.co.uk Word on the Street is the ultimate tug of words game that the whole family can enjoy and can be played by up to eight players aged 10 and above.

The game board features fun illustrations in the style of a street with printed letters lined up down the middle. Each turn, a team draws a category card and quickly comes up with a one-word answer before the time runs out. Once a word is chosen, the team moves each letter tile of the word towards their side of the street. The first team to move eight letters off the board wins!

Also available for younger players, Word on the Street Junior has simplified game play for ages seven and above, helping to develop vocabulary, communication and strategic thinking.

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Perfect Puzzles and Great Games.

All NEW for 2017

www.cheatwell.com

Page 55.indd 1

For more information and a copy of our latest catalogue please contact mark@cheatwell.com or call 02392 524098

05/09/2017 09:59

Feature

Games & Puzzles

Whoops-a-doggy Worlds Apart 0845 602 2119 www.worldsapart.com Reality TV singing contest fans of all ages can now bring the excitement home with Spin to Sing – the exciting new interactive talent show game where the best performer wins.

Spin to Sing is all about recreating your favourite Saturday night TV talent shows direct from your home. Take it in turns to spin the mic to select a performer to sing one of the their own downloaded tracks on their phone through the free Spin to Sing game app.

Fellow players score the performance and the performer with the highest average score at the end of the game wins.

There are also twists to shake up gameplay, which let players shuffle the songs, spin again or have everyone sing the track as a group.

Just like a real TV talent show, the star of your talent show is rewarded with a Winner’s Journey photo montage of all of their best bits, which they can save to the camera roll to share their glory online for all to see.

Woofy Whoops! is a suspense-style game with a digital twist that takes slapstick games to the next level with its integrated app. Players take turns to spin Woofy and whoever he lands on has to pat him as many times as he barks. Pat him once, twice, three times (or more), but if a player is unlucky enough to have the last pat, Woofy won’t be able to hold in his wee and the player gets sprayed with water!

So what’s the digital twist? The app records the laugh-out-loud moment in slow motion, so players can watch back the moment they get peed on, and then share online or with family and friends.

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What’s up, DOC? Clementoni 020 3206 1101 www.clementoni.com DOC is the first ever game that brings children closer to educational robotics in a fun and creative way and will accompany the child as they learn logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, letters, numbers, colours and the names of animals. Children learn through play by programming commands from game cards to follow routes to find objects or DOC can be programed to roam at will. Perfect for ages four to seven, DOC is a great way of enhancing eye-hand coordination and fine motor skills.

2017 has seen new launches for children tied into popular licenses from Nickelodeon, Disney, Pixar and Dreamworks including key theatrical releases such as Despicable Me 3 and Cars 3 and trending properties such as Num Noms and Shimmer and Shine.

Clementoni’s Impossible Puzzles are a head scratching flurry of characters within 1000 pieces and lend themselves perfectly to key licenses such as Tsum Tsum. Emoji, Despicable Me, Num Noms, Trolls, Finding Nemo, 101 Dalmations, Frozen and The Penguins of Madagascar with a special Marvel edition due to launch in time for Christmas.

The High Quality Panorama Collection is a stunning landscape of 1000 pieces which draws on beautiful imagery from classic Disney properties as well as trending licenses such as Despicable Me 3 and Trolls.

The Clementoni range of puzzles offers difficulty levels for all Jigsaw fans from 20 piece maxi for younger puzzlers right through to 104, 250 and 1500 pieces.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 13:01

THE

SNEAKIEST, CHEEKIEST

BANANAGRAMS

EVER!

The anagram game that drives you bananas just got chaotic with 14 new pandemonium inducing party power tiles! Mix in the chaos, stir up the fun!

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

%L*

3R7D7R

J$P(V

Page 57.indd 1

05/09/2017 14:14

FEATURE

GAMES & PUZZLES

Baffle and bewilder MARVIN’S MAGIC 01582 849000 www.marvinsmagic.com Master some quintessentially quirky and amazing feats of skill and ingenuity with Marvin’s Magic Presents range, new for 2017.

Each unique gift contains 20 amazing stunts plus fully illustrated instructions guaranteed to amaze and impress. Enjoy discovering the Magic of Shadows, Science, Illusions, Card Tricks, Pub Tricks and Origami Paper Magic. Collect all six and baffle and bewilder your audience with fascinating skills.

Family fun VIVID IMAGINATIONS 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Drumond Park introduces six new game across children’s and adult categories.

For younger kids, Shark Bite, Gassy the Cow and Snotcha are sure to cause a stir. For older children aged eight plus and families, there’s Bang On, the actionpacked team game. Answer questions, bang the hammer and gain extra time to win the game.

Race your friends up and down the board by swapping and gaining as many of your cards as you can before the timer runs out in Pandemonio.

And throw your balls into the cube and try to empty your tray first to win the game in King Pong.

All Drumond Park kids games will benefit from increased, heavyweight TV support across the autumn/winter season.

Adult games are about to blow up with Who’s The Dude?, the double act charades game where you compete against the timer to get your team to guess as many charades as possible. Who’s The Dude? will be supported with a comprehensive digital and social led marketing campaign, including social media advertising across Facebook and Snapchat; influencer videos with UniLad and online advertising across a variety of online and digital platforms.

Tongue twisters ACCENTUATE 0330 400 4162 www.accentuategames.com Accentuate features 90 different quotes from famous movies – players pick a card then read that movie quote aloud in a randomly selected accent. Team mates have just thirty seconds to guess the accent, and can also earn points by identifying the movie, and even the film’s year of release. There are 30 different accents from around the globe, a third of which are home-grown British accents.

The game is compatible with the Film Quotes Expansion Pack, which features a completely different set of 90 movie lines – players might recite ‘I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti’ in a strong Brummie brogue, or ‘Say hello to my little friend’ in an out-of-context Cornish.

To keep the game challenging and to appeal to as broad an age range as possible, the quotes have been taken from a spread of movies spanning eight decades, including My Fair Lady, Ghostbusters, Jaws, The Graduate, Monty Python & The Holy Grail, Casablanca, The Devil Wears Prada and Back to the Future.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 13:02

Helping everyone sell more

The UK’s highest audited toy trade publication.

5121 Circulation figure relates to period from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017

toysnplaythings.co.uk www.abc.org.uk Be wise when you advertise Look for the ABC stamp of trust. An ABC certificate provides An ABCverified certificate shows accurate, independently circulation figures giving you confidence in your advertising investment.

Page 59.indd 1

www.abc.org.uk

05/09/2017 10:44

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

S AMBAIA L SPEC

IBLE D E R INC VALUE

The great outdoors

“

This month, TnP brings you a special edition of our hugely popular TnP Ambassadors feature. Our toy testers have put a variety of the latest and greatest outdoor toys to the test to bring you a sense of what the kids and parents think about each.

From Hasbro’s latest Nerf lines and Star Wars favourites, to MV Sports’ PJ Masks scooter and helmet, Revell’s high-flying Quadcopter Spot VR, P&C’s Bubble Dolphin and plenty more, the TnP Ambassadors took to their gardens, parks and village greens to bring you their thoughts.

Which product is a parent’s favourite thanks to clever design that keeps both the kids and house clean? What toy has become a summer holiday must have? And which had added surprises after the testers thought they were done? Read on to find out…

“ TM & © Cartoon Network

ONCE T, PLA YOU S ’S THERE ING NO GO BACK!

INTRO TnP Ambassadors.indd 1

“

JUST TTLE I L T A WH ANT W S L GIR

D MY ME AENRS PLAY H S BROT THI H T WI RYDAY EVE

“

COMING SOON!

05/09/2017 11:53

Slime time!

Zimpli 08454 591 818 www.zimplikids.com

Claire and her kids, Poppy, 8, and Herbie, 5, had a whale of a time enjoying the outdoors with just two of Zimpli’s smashing range of fun toys – designed to give kids oodles of joy and strike terror in the hearts of all parents! They take up the story…

the lads vs dads showdown.

“And we hid behind the tents to ambush them, Forget soaking your friends in water, it’s time to blast them with the slime shoots Slime! Simply add our magical prea good long way measured Slime Powder to your — the boys aren’t water tank, shake to create the allowed all the fun,” Slime and get ready, aim, fire! says Poppy.

Forgetting all our brought out this worries about stains Slime Blaster Gun and stickiness, all the mums so the water fights joined in — we remember Bugsy Malone on our recent camping trip with and the splurge guns, and it was fun in pals turned into great gooey shorts and tees, crawling around the adventures. campsite.

You just pour the powder and Herbie said: “I loved getting slimed! I water into the tank, shake — great was hit on my leg and it all ran into my hilarity ensued when the cap was left off so sandals so I could squelch out green the green gunk flew out — and the pumpgoo as I walked around.” action shooter is ready to fire.

The guns come with plenty of ammo – Not all the slime made it into the guns 12 slime powder sachets – and it’s worth as Herbie and his pals snuck off with a stocking up on extras too because once couple of the packets to make their own you splat, there’s no going back! green gunge, but there was plenty left for Water blasters are a favourite in our house — Poppy and Herbie have been known to hide in the garden to catch daddy as he comes in from work. Now the fun stakes have been raised even higher because Zimpli have

WATER ED URN T S T H FIG REAT G O T IN GOOEY URES T ADVEN

“

Zimpli says…

Let it snow!

My kids are outdoorsy and we live in the country so they love anything that makes a mess. And the fun of chucking snowballs around in summer was right up their street.

All we had to do was mix the magical powder with water and watch it turn into realistic snow which we then made into snowballs and threw at everyone, including a few people walking past our cottage!

Herbie said: "I liked throwing the snow at daddy and Poppy. They both looked funny when it splatted near him — and it was very fun.”

One of the great things about these Zimpli products from a parent's point

SEPTEMBER 2017

of view is that they’re 100 per cent safe on skin and clothes (and furniture, as we found) so it won’t do any harm at all.

Poppy said: “It was great because the sun was out and the snowballs didn’t melt.”

Great value at £4.99, you can make around 60 balls and have snowball fights all year round!

Zimpli says…

Our ever so popular Gelli Snow powder has been transformed to create our brand-new SnoBall Battle Pack! Simply add the SnoBall powder to water, and watch it transform into realistic snow. Get ready for snowball fights all year round!

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Š 2017 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

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YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

s r a w f f Sta

Hasbro 020 8569 1234 www.hasbro.com

Claire is mum to Poppy, eight and five-year-old Herbie, both of whom are mad about Star Wars and have really been carried away with the latest instalments in the saga. Claire and her children tell us how much fun they had with their Star Wars Forces of Destiny Rey Extendable Staff, by Hasbro.

Poppy, as you can see from our photos here, is a really huge fan of all things Star Wars – her Dad is too and I love seeing them sit together watching the movies or him playing out scenes with her when she is dressed in her Rey outfit.

I know there has been a lot of controversy over the amount of Rey toys and, more generally, the positive female role models there are in toy shops, but to be honest, our children play together and are

Hasbro says…

Brave and true, Rey uses her staff to defend herself and protect others. With the Rey of Jakku extendable staff, kids can imagine their own epic adventures across the face of the remote desert Planet Jakku and in the galaxy beyond. Spin the staff, and it snaps out to over 3.5 feet long (104 cm). combine with lightsabers from the bladebuilders system (each sold separately) and imagine the protecting the innocent traders of Jakku with a custom fighting staff!

not really bothered if it is a girl toy or a boy toy — it’s just a toy.

The Rey Staffs were excellent in my view. I felt they really helped them with their characters – they love playing imaginative games where they act out scenes they have made up.

And the look was authentic, especially when Poppy is dressed up as Rey, she looks fabulous!

“

IT KS 0 O L LLY A E R L REA

Fast and furious!

Nerf is a must in most kids’ toy chests nowadays and Hasbro are masters at adding new twists and spins to this trusted, loved and topselling range.

But this year, they have brought a

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new dimension to it – Heather and her two boys, Harry, six and Teddy, five tell us all about it.

My two boys are typical of lads their ages… cars, blasters and competing against one another, so when my husband brought home Hasbro’s Nerf Nitro MotoFury Rapid Rally set, I knew it would be a firm favourite over the summer and beyond”, says Heather.

I found the set easy to put together – it's a good and strong quality. I just

Hasbro says…

Blast into motorised, rapid-fire stunt challenges with the Nerf Nitro Moto Fury Rapid Rally set. Power up the blaster’s motor with the acceleration button, take aim, and unleash the cars into fast-firing action.

The blaster has a clip that holds up to nine cars, so load up the clip and send the cars flying out of the blaster and into speeddriven, high-flying stunts! The Moto Fury Rapid Rally set comes with six cars and three cars that are special to this set!

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 16:56

Herbie is also into Star Wars and he had great fun with the staffs too — he was swinging it about like there was no tomorrow! All in, very fun, good value and, as the toy only works if you have an imagination, which all kids have, the potential is limitless.

Poppy said: “My brother and I really love watching Star Wars — my Daddy loves it too and Mum a little bit as well — but Herbie and I have got a lot of the toys. I got the Rey outfit for my birthday last year and I often use the little branches that I find in the garden as the staff.

"But now I’ve got my own one and Herbie has his too, we don’t have to use the branches anymore.

“

THE STAFF Y POPP S E K A M OLER O C K LOO "The best thing about the staff is that it looks really real, just like the one Rey uses when I watch Forces of Destiny. I like play-fighting with my brother Herbie because in the film Rey is really tough and tries hard to win every battle. She is a good character and is only fighting because the other people are bad. I don’t mind that Herbie plays with the Rey Staff too — it’s just for fun!

Herbie is equally as happy with the Hasbro Staffs, he said: “My sister is

snapped it together easily and quickly. I was surprised by how many cars came as part of the set. Sometimes these things can leave you a little underwhelmed, but the opposite was true! I thought, Hasbro have pushed the boat out with the quantity.

I would feel happy buying additions to the

always dressing up as Rey — she looks cool.

But the staff makes her look cooler. She is quite a good fighter but I think i use the staff better than her. I think it’s good for us to have the staffs because we can play act Star Wars better than we did when we only had the branches."

set because I got quite a lot in the first playset.

Harry says: “When mum started putting this together me and Teddy were really excited. I love my Nerf blasters. The best thing about this is that the cars fly out of the blaster really fast – they are awesome! Teddy is very good at it to but I think I'm a bit better."

Teddy adds: “It's the fastest car trick set I've played with. The cars shoot out the front and it's fun to see which one goes further.

We play with it a lot and mum says we can get more cars and add more bits to the track."

Product features ■ Motorised, rapid-fire car-blasting action ■ Foam cars designed for speed and distance ■ Includes high-jump ramp and long-jump ramp ■ Comes with a special offering of 9 cars ■ Includes 12 obstacles.

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YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

e k a T

s e i k s e h t o t ISN’T QUALITY ERE RN H A CONCE HIS EITHER; T TER IS P QUADCO LAST BUILT TO

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Revell

0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en

George, loves anything techy and took to Revell’s Quadcopter Spot VR like a seasoned pro. The same can’t be said for uncle Paul, but thanks to the built-in auto-fly features he wasn’t embarrassed too much. Find out how they got on…

I had toy helicopters when I was a kid, but to even try and draw parallels between what I had and Revell’s incredible Spot VR is an exercise in futility. This is the future we dreamed of when I was young, and even in today’s world of Minecraft and iPads, the magic wasn’t lost on my seven-year-old nephew George — he loved it.

First thing's first, even for the technophobes out there this is a cinch to get going. Everything is clearly labeled, and it only took us a couple of minutes to download the free app and get ready for lift off.

The big draw of this quadcopter is the first-person view, which lets you see what the quadcopter’s very good video camera sees by strapping a smartphone to your face with the included goggles — and I’m pleased to report it’s far comfier than it sounds. But to begin with we tried flying the drone about without the added FPV feature.

George took to it like a natural, whizzing around the park and bringing

“

it back to land after just a few goes. I’d like to say I followed suit — not quite — but even my relatively poor performance was good enough for a quick display of aerial acrobatics.

Then we strapped on the VR goggles and things truly took off. George had a great time flying round and taking videos of us from up on high. It took him a couple of minutes to get the hang of it, but for a toy as technologically advanced I was very impressed that it was so simple to fly. Even in the gusts of wind the drone stayed steady, and before long George was swooping down over our heads and capturing some impressive footage.

You can tell the Revell designers have thought of everything.

There are multiple speed options to ensure everyone can have a fun time, even me with my “old man reactions” — George’s words, although I have to agree!

Quality isn’t a concern here either; this quadcopter is built to last and considering the heights and speeds you can fly this thing at, a few collisions with trees and even the ground

TLING A STAR HIGHNT OF NE U O M A UN IN O F H C E T GE PACKA

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didn’t scratch it, let alone break it.

Even when we got home, there was fun to be had. We had a great time going through the footage we’d captured. It’s a startling amount of high-tech fun in one package, and although it’s on the main present end of the price spectrum, I have no regrets whatsoever — this is incredible value.

I can see George having countless hours’ fun with the Quadcopter Spot VR, and I really do think it will give him a valuable new skill and interesting new hobby to get into — what’s not to like about that?

George says…

This is the coolest thing ever. My friends are so jealous. I’ve already started making movies of us playing football and chasing the dog around the garden. Dad or uncle Paul let me borrow his phone and then when I’m done flying around and recording we sit together and watch what the videos back. I feel like I’m a secret agent and it’s so awesome!

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:03

N O S I E M I T !

E D I S R U YO

AVAILABLE

SEPTEMBER

Demon has all you’d expect of a performance camera drone, plus exceptionally long flight time.

Demon can operate for up to 20 MINUTES on a charge, giving you plenty of time to compose the perfect photo or shoot the ultimate video... or both - it’s up to you!

Additional Features: 720P HD Video & Stills Camera / 3 Speed/Skill levels Headless mode / Flips / Auto-start / Auto-land / Altitude Hold Revell GmbH, Unit 10, Old Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Tring, HP23 4QR. For trade enquiries Tel: 01296 660 291. Email: ukbranch@revell.de © 2017 Revell GmbH. A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc. Revell_DemonFlyer_138x210.indd 1

10/08/2017 15:03

Publication:

Toys N Playthings T

Job Number:

4547

Signed-off by:

Insert Date:

September Issue

File Name:

Rev_TNP_Demon_138x210_10-08-17.pdf

Date:

Trim Size:

138 mm x 210 mm

Proof Stage:

1

Line Screen:

150

Date:

10-08-17

FLY VR!

If any problems arise concerning this document, please contact Oyster Studios on 01582 761212 or email enquiries@oysterstudios.com

AVAILABLE

AUGUST

DRIVE VR! AVAILABLE

OCTOBER Experience the thrill of flying a drone from the cockpit or racing an RC car from the driver’s seat with Spot VR and VR Racer from Revell Control!* * Requires iOS/Android smartphone.

Revell.indd 1

Publication:

Revell GmbH, Unit 10, Old Airfield Industrial Estate, Cheddington Lane, Tring, HP23 4QR. For trade enquiries Tel: 01296 660 291. Email: ukbranch@revell.de © 2017 Revell GmbH. A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc.

Toys N Playthings

Job Number:

4547

Signed-off by:

15/08/2017 10:29

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

t u o b a ’ n i t o Sco

What’s it all about?

MV Sports 0121 748 8000 www.mvsports.co.uk Three-year-old Edison is always tearing around, so his grandma Carmela knew that the MV Sports PJ Masks Tri Scooter would be just what the little lad needed. They tell TnP about their experience.

Edison is really mad about PJ Masks — he has loads of the vehicles and figures, he buys the magazines and he watches the show. He's quite boisterous and mad about anything with wheels — his balance bike, his car and his big brother’s scooter… and therein lies the rub! It’s too big for him and so he struggles with it. So when I saw the MV Sports PJ Masks Tri Scooter I knew it was the perfect vehicle for our lovely little (very energetic) grandson.

What’s good about it? Well, I assembled it — I’m very proud of that! The instructions were straightforward and it took me no time at all. The hardest thing was keeping his hands off it while I was putting it together.

Once it was assembled he was off. I made sure he had a matching helmet, which he adores and wore the whole time I was screwing the various parts together. The helmet is very light but well-cushioned and fits his little head very well — and of course it's fully adjustable.

The inner part is made from shock absorbent material and it's really wellventilated, so no hot heads here!

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THIS IS MY OY T BEST

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■ PJ Masks character colour printed anti-slip footplate ■ 15cm front wheel with puncture proof tyre ■ 10cm rear wheels with puncture proof tyres ■ Fun character plaque and graphics ■ Fun, bespoke shaped character plaque

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RFECT E P E H T R OR OU F E L C VEHI LE Y LITT ETIC) L E V O L ENERG (VERY ON S GRAND

I’m very happy with it — it's simple, well-designed and eye-catching. Put it this way, he sticks out like a sore thumb when we're at the park!

Edison says: “This is my best toy – I love this scooter because it's super-fast and my brothers can’t catch me.

Catboy is the fastest in PJ Masks and that’s who I am when I’m on my scooter. I can scoot back on myself and my front wheel twists around — it is my best trick. I like my PJ Masks helmet too — and sometimes I let my little brother try it on as well.”

Smyths' shoppers say…

"I bought this a few weeks ago for my son’s third birthday and he absolutely loves it. He’s still getting the hang of it but he loves it. The scooter was fairly easy to assemble."

Devena

"I bought it for my daughter and she loves it.

It's easy to assemble."

Fathama

"My two-and-a-half-yearold son chose this scooter and he loves it. It’s wellmade, colourful and easy to use. Great purchase."

Lovetoys123

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:10

Tri-Scooter

Safety Helmet

COOL PRINTED DECK

FOAM PADDING FOR COMFORT

MORE ACTION PACKED PRODUCTS TO FOLLOW!!

FULLY ENCLOSED PRINTED CHAIN GUARD

PJ Masks © Frog Box / Entertainment One UK Limited / Walt Disney EMEA Productions Limited 2014.

Check out these hero products TNP JUN AD 2017 - PJ Masks FINAL.indd 1

11/05/2017 17:10:34

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

! n u f g n i h s a Spl AMBAS

A.B.Gee of Ripley 01773 570444 www.abgee.co.uk

A.B.GEE says...

A.B.Gee of Ripley has a fantastic new range of Sand and Water tables. These sturdy designs are sure to be popular with children of all ages, as they offer hours of year-round, indoor and outdoor playtime fun. Each table offers great value for money, and comes complete with a full range of play accessories.

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Mum Sonia joined Charlie, four, and Rosie, three, for a fun afternoon with the Square Sand and Water Table from A.B. Gee of Ripley.

Here's what they discovered...

Splish, splash, splosh! This may be billed as a sand and water table, but it’s definitely the wet stuff that made this colourful toy a brilliant hit for my pair of little monkeys.

At four, Charlie was very happy wearing his pirate hat to match the toy’s theme and directing young Rosie in how she should build sandcastles — though she soon pushed him out of the way to show him how to make them her way.

The packaging boasts 21 pieces, so there are plenty of bits and bobs to make playtime fun, including a rake, boat, bucket, water wheel, watering can, shapes and a couple of flags for decoration.

And at just £19.99, this is definitely a good buy.

Once assembled, the table is a perfect size for a couple of kids to use together and, as we live in a small block of flats, didn’t take up too much room and would fit on even the smallest of balconies so the children can take advantage of the fresh air.

It would probably be better on grass so the bigger children can sit down or kneel as it's quite low to the floor.

Determinedly wearing his wellies even though the sun was shining, Charlie said: “I liked sinking the boat, and the pirate flag was good – and making

“

THERE ENTY L P E R A S AND D T I B F O LUDE C N I S BOB KE TO MA E FUN IM PLAYT

Rosie wet was fun,” but I did have to stop him watering her with the can!

Being quite mature for a justturned-four-year-old, Charlie would have much preferred to be left alone to experiment with however much water he could mix in before the sand refused to stand up, but little sisters are rarely on message, so he had to let her play too.

Rosie’s just nudging the three-plus recommended age but, with adult supervision, there was absolutely no reason to keep her away, which is a good job as she absolutely loved it — splashing away, whizzing the water wheel around and generally having a whale of a time. All she could say was: “Mine!”

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:12

Av In ail Sto ab ck le No w Sand & Wa Water Wat ate te er Play Pla lay ay from A.B.Gee Gee G ee of of Ripley Riple ley ey O

X Includes 20 play accessories Pirate Ship Sand & Water Table Item: 827 8808 Size: W: 60cm x H: 28cm x D: 38cm

Sand Box 2 in 1 Game Item: 827 8809 Size: W: 50cm x H: 30cm x D: 48cm

b a gee First Choice in dŽLJ Θ ,ŽďďLJ ŝƐƚƌŝďƵƟŽŶ͊

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New 2017

Square Sand & Water Table Item: 827 8812 Size: W: 40cm x H: 59cm x D: 40cm X Includes 21 play accessories

Pira Pirate rate Ship Sand & Water Table Item: 827 8810 It Size: W: 51cm x H: 58cm x D: 31cm X Includes 24 play accessories

Fantastic range of Indoor and Outdoor Toys, Games and Beach Goods A .B.Gee of Ripley Ltd, Asher Lane Business Park, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3SW. Tel: 01773 570444 www.abgee.co.uk Email: sales@abgee.co.uk 17/08/2017 10:52

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

g n i w o l b r e v e r o F s e l b bub Funrise

Amazon shoppers say…

01908 555640 www.funrise.com

What kid doesn’t love to play with bubbles? But when you want a little step up from your usual bubble bottle Funrise hits the spot with its range of brilliant bubble machines.

TnP Ambassador Latimer put Funrise’s Gazillion Whirlwind Bubble Party Machine through its paces with the help of his uncle. Latimer and his Uncle, Lib, take up the story…

Latimer is full of energy, as most five year olds are, and he loves running around the garden and playing on his various garden toys and bikes. But when I saw Funrise’s Whilrwind Bubble Party Machine I knew he would have a ball with it. My wife and I are always on the lookout for cool toys for him that have a little twist and this really hit the spot.

It gets him out and about. While he is a very active boy, I find that sometimes, like all of his peers, he wants to sit on the sofa watching Odd Squad or playing on

Funrise says…

Instantly create a bubble party with the Gazillion Bubbles Whirlwind Party Machine! This is our biggest bubble machine yet, perfect for any event from birthdays, to graduations, to weddings. With no pump and no wait time, you can get the party started in a flash! This machine blasts more bubbles than ever before! Just pour the solution into the spout, push the button, and watch as tons of bubbles blow into the air!

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Love this bubble machine, it puts out a ton of bubbles and doesn’t waste bubble solution!

Ashley M

HING T T S E THE B RE WERE THE T A H LES, T B B IS U B OF LOADS EY WERE H AND T MASSIVE Y REALL

“ HE T S IT ' BBLE BU T S BE EVERthe tablet and while that’s ok, we prefer to get toys that encourage TOY

“

him to be outdoors.

The machine requires a couple of AA batteries (not included) and a whole load of bubbles – a large bottle is included and away you go.

Instantly, the machine produced loads of greatsized bubbles. Latimer was darting in and out of them, really larking about and having a great time.

I think we were both surprised at just how many bubbles we

got! And they floated high in the sky, which made it more spectacular.

The quantity of bubbles is what Latimer loved the most. He said: “The best thing is that there were loads of bubbles, and they were really massive.

Also, another brilliant bit was that the bubbles never stopped – my mummy has bought loads more bubble mixture as me and my brothers play with this every day. Even though they are little, they have a lot of fun with this. One day, my friends came to play at my house and they brought their doggy Buster over too – and even he liked it because it is the best bubble toy ever!"

Latimer is really looking forward to playing with the Gazillion Whirlwind Bubble Party Machine with his two younger brothers, but the seal of approval from him was obvious when he said: "I'm going to bring this to Show & Tell at school… and then the whole school can play with it in the playground.” A big thumbs up, I’d say!

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:15

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23/08/2017 13:48

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

h s a l p s a g n i k Ma P&C Toys (+852) 9067 4260 kevin@pnctoys.com

Mia says..

"I love bubbles and princesses and animals and my Bubble Dolphin is my new best toy. It was so pretty like a rainbow. I love popping bubbles and now there are lots and lots in my garden – more than mummy and daddy can make!"

Mia, four, loves nothing more than dressing up as a princess and playing with bubbles, and luckily, P&C’s Bubble Fun Bubble Dolphin is just the ticket. Mia’s mum Leanna gave us the lowdown...

Other than stories of princesses and princes, bubbles have to be Leanna’s favourite thing. We’ve had plenty of fun in the past with bubble wands, little bottles of bubbles and, in times of crisis, a bent coat hanger and washing up liquid. The Bubble Dolphin has blown all of them out of the water, and for such a relatively simple idea, it has given Mia and her friends hours of fun.

We’ve been lucky with the weather recently, so getting outside has been a must — but Mia wouldn’t go anywhere without her trusty Bubble Dolphin. For her, it’s magic; for me, it’s a godsend. It’s so simple to use, just stick in some batteries, dribble in the solution, flick the switch, and away we go.

It claims to blow thousands of bubbles in minutes, and having seen it action I can confirm that you will have a bubble-filled back garden in no time at all. Big bubbles, small bubbles, all shimmering in the light — it really is impressive and for such a reasonable price.

Mia had a great time playing with the bubble machine, and so did a few of her friends who came over for tea. They were mesmerised and they really enjoyed dancing about and popping the bubbles, which disappeared without leaving a trace on Mia’s precious princess dress.

I think P&C have done a great job keeping parents in mind, too. It’s the little details that count, and being able to easily fill up the machine by pouring solution in through the mouth means no mess and no wasting the precious bubble-making liquid. A really nice touch is the ability to pour any unused solution back out through the dolphin’s mouth and into the bottle — cost-effective and great for ensuring you don’t splash it everywhere while tucking it away after a full day's play.

The Bubble Dolphin comes with a good-sized bottle of solution, which is plenty for several very long, and very exciting, play sessions. Again, it’s a hardy bottle with a good pouring nozzle, and yes these are the boring details, but they count a great deal for us parents — anything that makes life simpler gets a gold star and two thumbs up from me! We have a lot of birthday parties coming up and I think this would be a great pressie for any kid.

INK H T I VE EAT A H P&C E A GRNG DON KEEPI N JOB ENTS I PAR D, TOO MIN

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IT HAS D A GOO G N POURI E NOZZL

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:21

YS O T R O S R O OUTDO D A S

AMBAS

! y t t e B h o o O “

Hy-Pro

THIS IS ST E B E H T AVE H I Y O T AD EVER H

01582 670100 www.hy-pro.co.uk Little Daisy was so excited to be going on holiday, so grandma Melanie decided to buy her HyPro’s Zinc Flyte Betty suitcase scooter. Melanie and Daisy, aged 4, share their thoughts…

My granddaughter Daisy is a real little Princess. She likes everything just so, and normally her way too!

So when we all decided to go on a family holiday she was very quick to start putting aside her belongings — a whole month before we even went away. Daisy wanted to take toys, nail polish and sparkly shoes, all the things little girls love. So, I thought a good way to keep the excitement up for the rest of the month and for the duration of the holiday was to get her some luggage.

There is so much out there to choose from but I was taken with the Zinc Flyte Betty Suitcase Scooter from Hy-Pro. I know from experience with my other grandchildren that the scooters from Hy-Pro are all very good — sturdy, safe and, above all,

super fun. Knowing this was a great outdoor toy, with the added bonus of having its own luggage, made it more special.

FIrst of all, this suitcase scooter looks great! Secondly, it means Daisy can zip around everywhere and her parents don’t have to carry around a bag. In fact, Daisy loves it so much, she takes it to the park and keeps her drinks and snacks in it! I think it helps make her feel independent and cool.

The case is brilliant too. From a design point of view, it's vibrant and stylish — not garish or, dare i say, cheap-looking. And the shell is really tough and can withstand the constant knocks, opening and closing, and dragging around the place that

ELY T I N I F DE I WILL THIS FOR ING Y IDS U K B D E N B A E GR H T L L A Daisy puts it through.

“

Hy-Pro says…

The ever-smiling Betty will brighten up every adventure. This nesting doll has cleared out her companions to make room for everything little ones needs.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

25 litre capacity – plenty of room for travel essentials Cabin sized – perfect for stowing in your overhead compartments Rock ‘n’ roll steering – stable steering system for safety Sturdy but squishy – soft, bouncy surface to resist impact Secure, integrated deck – scooter folds away and locks in place

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Also, Daisy, as I mentioned, is our little princess, and all princesses like to be the star attraction, and this scotter has really put her in the spotlight! She gets so many comments, attention and compliments, and people always say what a great idea a scooter with a suitcase is.

It's two great products rolled into one which makes my beautiful granddaughter happy — what more could any grandma want? In fact, I know Hy-Pro have them in all sorts of colours and ranges so I will definitely be buying them for all the grandkids.

Daisy said: “This is the best toy I have ever had. I put my best things inside the suitcase — her name is Betty — and then mummy and daddy take me to the park. When we went on holiday I was in charge of picking all my things too."

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 17:08

Soar through the skies or tame the tracks...

Whatever the journey, Flyte is making travel fun for kids across the UK and around the world.

The original, globetrotting travel toy which combines the fun of a scooter and the functionality of a wheeled trolley case.

Pre-Flyte Safety ;aniZã^hãi]ZãÁghiãe^dcZZg^c\ã[daY^c\ãXVhZãhXddiZgãidã]VkZã8:ãXZgi^ÁXVi^dc!ã ASTM!ã:C,&ãVcYã:C&)+&.ãVeegdkVaãjcYZgã^ihãWZai#

All aboard

Flyte takes on 3 forms – a cabin sized case, a pull along trolley and a swift but sturdy scooter.

Worldwide Approval Flyte is ready to spread its wings internationally as it passes all worldwideãgZ\jaVi^dchãl^i]ãÂn^c\ãXdadjghãVcYã]VhãldgaYl^YZãYZh^\cãg^\]ih and patents.

While the long-awaited Maxi is still in development, expected now in 2018, Flyte has also launched a series of accessories including plush toys which hide blankets or backpacks inside for extra travel fun.

These miniature Flyte characters are soft, cuddly and practical, making i]Zbã^YZVaãXdbeVc^dchã[gdbãXVgã_djgcZnhãidãadc\ã]VjaãÂ^\]ih#ã:VX]ã plush matches one of the beloved Flyte designs and each one has a velcro strap on the top, giving it the ability to attach to a case.

For more information on our Flyte range, please contact Ying on 01582 813033 or email ying@hy-pro.co.uk

Hypro.indd 1

14/08/2017 12:31

FEATURE

PRE-CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING

TV winners Pre-Christmas advertising has become big business in recent years with many memorable marketing campaigns heralding the start of the festive shopping season — but how important is it for the toy sector? TnP talks to some industry experts…

R

emember the one with the snowman who travelled far and long to buy his frosty soulmate the What’s perfect festive present? Or the one worked for about a penguin called Monty who was a little boy’s best friend? us in the past What about the supermarket is having an marketing campaign based around families reuniting around the warm ad that hearth for Christmas that never completely failed to bring a tear to your eye engages with – or last year’s clever TV advert about a nurse getting home from and speaks a long shift to find her loved ones to the child had waited to celebrate with her?

The power and profit impact of – but that a well-crafted festive marketing parents can campaign simply cannot be also find a underestimated – whether it’s pulling at the consumer’s heart or connection purse strings. And as Christmas is with hugely focused on both children Logan Stone, and families, it’s little wonder that the toy industry places so much Worlds Apart. importance on advertising in the months running up to the big day.

But just how far in advance do

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Worlds Apart

John Adams

those in the know start planning, and is there such a thing as the perfect recipe for festive marketing success?

TnP took a closer look to find out.

Emotional selling It’s a tall order hitting on the right combination to guarantee Christmas advertising success. You’re talking multi-channel marketing at its most effective with a clearly defined and clever social media strategy thrown in for good measure – and then there’s style, story, music and the human interest factor to think about.

But all this aside, a great Christmas ad has to have emotional pull for all generations.

“What’s worked for us in the past is having an ad that completely engages with and speaks to the child – but that parents can also find a connection with,” reveals Logan Stone, Brand Manager for Worlds Apart.

“Children are of course the biggest influencer for our products, so the ad needs to be fun, colourful, memorable and relatable – however we also use our TV adverts to market to parents online. So ads that mums and dads can connect with and see their child or family engaging with, are hugely important to influencing parental and gift giver purchases, in addition to child pester power.

“For example, with our new games, Spin to Sing and Woofy Whoops we have aimed to create ads that children will think they are really fun to play, as well as appealing to parents through how they represent fun, quality time with the family.

“Similarly with our GoGlow ads we aim to make the night lights look as fun and appealing to children as possible, while showing the benefits to bedtime routines for the parental seal of approval.”

Kerry Tarrant, Marketing Manager for Alpha Animation agrees that establishing an emotional connection with the consumer is vital.

“Everyone will have a different opinion as to what makes the perfect Christmas advert and I imagine for the creative production teams who have the task of delivering and creating the advert it is a combination of many elements,” she says.

“Personally though, the adverts that have an emotive connection are the ones that touch me.

“My two personal favourites are both from John Lewis; the Snowman Love Story in 2012 and Monty the Penguin in 2014.”

Timing is everything When asking leading toy designers and manufacturers how far in advance they plan in terms of dreaming up and perfecting their Christmas marketing campaigns, for some it seems there is no such thing as too early. But those in the know

Did you know…

The Worlds Apart team plan their Christmas marketing a year in advance in order to keep retailers and buyers in the loop from the start

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Alpha Animations

season. In 2016 the last three months of the year accounted for 50 per cent of sales in value, so Alongside TV marketing, there is no denying the social media has become a key It is vital importance of getting destination for grabbing the marketing timings right. for toy attention of parents. Zimpli Kids Planning for this always brands to supports its ranges heavily on starts early in the year with YouTube to create viral buzz campaigns being signed build early off as early as May for the around products consumer season ahead.

“The build up to awareness as the big day to engage customers Christmas begins in everyone is early and cut through the Christmas earnest as early as September fighting to noise! We focus our marketing plan when retailers launch their heavily on social media - particularly Christmas catalogues. be included YouTube - creating a viral buzz “It is vital to build early consumer on children’s awareness as everyone is fighting to around our products.” be included on children’s Christmas Christmas Parental pester power lists. Festive sales are important lists The parental pound is absolutely for all toy companies which is why Kerry Tarrant, crucial to profit margins for toy marketing activity starts to ramp Alpha Animation brands, but to harness this you also also report that the toy industry up pre-October half term, right the have to strike the right balance itself is quite unique in launching way through to Christmas. between getting your festive festive brand campaigns from the “This autumn winter is Alpha’s message out there without summer. oversaturating the airways.

“Pre-Christmas marketing is It’s a delicate toy tightrope crucial to pushing sales in quarter to walk – so what do those four for Worlds Apart,” explains in the know have to say on Logan. the matter?

“From awareness building early on, “I don’t think there is to driving sales at key gift purchasing anything wrong with periods, it’s important to have the launching festive ad right marketing mix to target parents campaigns early - many as well as children. We’ve seen parents start their Christmas significant impacts on sales when shopping early so there’s a running digital campaigns, influencer good reason for brands to activity and TV, so a strong marketing act on this,” says Zimpli Kids’ campaign is pivotal.

Jessica.

“We always aim to have our “Yes there may be some Christmas marketing planned 12 commercial pressure on months in advance to allow for parents to buy presents thorough planning, as well as when the Christmas ads having plans ready for when we are Playmobil hit the screens but they previewing new ranges to retailers should appreciate the extra so they are aware of what we will be planning time! supporting our products with.” first season selling into the “Pester power is very important.

Alpha Animation’s Kerry UK market, so getting our Every brand wants to encourage adds: “It is important marketing initiatives right to children to pester their parents to buy that as soon as the new support sales throughout the There may be their products - even if it may cause autumn/winter ranges season is critical.” some commercial some family tiffs!” launch in July that the Jessica Coy, Head of “I think it all comes down to what brands and products get off to pressure on parents Marketing for Zimpli Kids, says you are using to advertise at different a good start and continue that a strong focus on social media to buy presents times and where you are placing way throughout the season. is also needed when thinking when the Christmas about festive ad planning. it,” Logan adds. “By launching ad Building early momentum and campaigns early you allow for brand awareness helps to cement “The Christmas season is ads hit the screens building - but it’s important to not this in the run up to Christmas. a huge opportunity for toy but they should over saturate your message over a “At Alpha, we started brands to increase sales, so the long period of time, so at Worlds our marketing campaigns appreciate the extra sooner the planning starts, the Apart we will use a variety of content in the summer for that better,” she says. planning time! over various channels so children and very reason, however we “We make sure we have our parents continue to engage without Jessica Coy, Zimpli Kids also ensure that we have festive marketing plan in place the message being diluted.” activity planned during peak at least four months before

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Fact!

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September 2017 Feature Pre-Christmas.indd 2

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FEATURE

PRE-CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING

Racing onto our screens ALPHA ANIMATION AND TOYS 01293 804599 Alpha Animation and Toys aired its first TV advertising campaign on Super Wings in July, showcasing the iconic World Airport Playset and the Transforming Vehicles. TV will continue in September ahead of targeted Facebook and Instagram activity which launches at the end of September through to the beginning of November.

This Autumn has seen the launch of RC brand, Drone Force.

Alpha have put heavy support behind the launch with TV playing out across 12 key channels during the summer months to create early awareness.

The multimedia campaign also sees a collaboration with SuperAwesome with a branded microsite hosted on Cartoon Network. Additional digital media is also planned across key sites including Bin Weevils.

To complement this activity, YouTube will be used as a platform to reach kids with bespoke video content through tailored targeting to ensure high reach and relevancy.

Late Q3 introduction, Wave Racers will speed onto TV in September following the launch at retail. Wave Racers will benefit from three bursts of TV in the run up to Christmas.

Alpha will also be adding to its advertising schedule with Infinity Nado. Following a summer of instore demos and TV advertising, the battling craze brand will be driven into December with the aid of further TVRs.

Curious for Christmas VIVID IMAGINATIONS 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Vivid’s TV and digital campaigns will support its AniMagic launches Fluffy Goes Walkies, the newest version of this feature plush as well as Penny My Curious Puppy. Disney Emoji launches in September bolstered by a strong TV campaign starting in October. Other supported launches include Arakno, Care Bears, Flip a Zoo, Flip Zee Girls, Ooshies and the Sky Viper.

Drumond Park will be showcasing 14 games from its successful children’s portfolio. Who’s the Dude? and Crayola will also be supported.

Craft-filled Christmas MOOKIE TOYS 01525 722722 www.mookie.co.uk Campaigns include building on the success of Buddy Balls, 3D Maker and 3D Freestyler from 2016, as well as building on the new launches for 2017 with brands including Fluffables, Plush Craft, Spray Art and Scented Pillow Pets.

New launches include the innovative Spray Art. The new brand will be on TV every month in the run-up to Christmas with over 1200 TVRs, as well as online activity.

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Going turbo!

SIMBA SMOBY 01274 765030 www.simba-dickie.com Simba Smoby is readying itself for the Christmas season with a heavyweight TV campaign for one of its most exciting brands. The Cars 3 Turbo Racer has been turning heads since launch and with a full schedule of TV advertising this autumn, the hero line will be a musthave this Christmas. Added to this is a six week programme for the Cars 3 role play commercial.

In the lead up to Christmas, retailers can rely on increased awareness of lines such as the Mack Truck Simulator, Workbench and V8 Car Seat, thanks to the comprehensive advertising campaign which runs right through to midDecember.

Further to TV advertising, Simba is also ensuring increased awareness through a full Cinema campaign for the Cars 3 range.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 05/09/2017 12:34

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9243 Berk Fortress

9244 Drago‘s Ship

9246 Hiccup & Toothless

$VWULG 6WRUPÁ \

9245 Gobber with Catapult

04.08.17 08:32

9248 Drago & Thunderclaw

9249 Eret with 4-Shot Firing Ballista

@PlaymobilUK Phone: 01268 548111

FEATURE

PRE-CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING

Morphinominal!

BANDAI 0208 324 6160 www.bandai.co.uk Bandai UK is delivering a comprehensive marketing plan that includes TVCs and sponsorship on key kids’ networks throughout the run-up to Christmas.

The heavyweight Power Rangers campaign running from July to December includes three TVCs for the Deluxe Ninja Megazord, Deluxe Battle Gear, and Ninja Star Morpher and this Christmas’s must-have, the epic Lion Fire Fortress Zord. Power Rangers.

Advertising license PLAYMOBIL

01268 548111 www.playmobil.co.uk This Christmas will see Playmobil continue its strong TV advertising investment, with an extra push in the run up to the festive season. The focus for manufacturer’s national campaign is the two new exclusive licensed product ranges, Ghostbusters and How to Train Your Dragon.

A total of 17 product ranges are featuring in this year’s advertising schedule, which is running on children’s TV channels, across both the UK mainland and Ireland, including Milkshake, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.

As well as the new licensed ranges further product launches have also hit TV screens throughout 2017, including Knights, Pony Farm, Police and Romans and Egyptians. During the run up to Christmas, ranges such as Summer Camp, City Action Airport and Princess Castle will also be appearing on screen.

All in good toomie TOMY 01392 281928 www.tomy.com Tomy will kickstart its Christmas marketing drive with strong TV campaigns for collections including Tomy Toomies, Aquadoodle and Tomy Games.

The toy giant will support Tomy Toomies and sell-out Foam Cone Factory with a strategic TV campaign beginning in November, delivering 160 TVR’s. Aquadoodle will be another driver with TV advertising running from November with expected delivery of 160 TVR’s. Tomy Games will benefit from additional TV support with activity planned from August that’s set to deliver nearly 750 TVR’s through the key Christmas sales time.

Shop stars GP FLAIR 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Shopkins will lead the way this autumn with extensive TV advertising through to December. The new Season 8 range will be centre stage, with a new World Traveller theme for girls to jump on board with. Adverts for Wave 2 of Season 8 will air this month focusing on Asia, with Wave 3 and Americas in October, and Skyanna’s Jet Playset from now until December. Glimmies, Snuggle Pets and Cool Create brands will also be heavily supported.

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Feature

Pre-Christmas advertising

Got the scoop LeapFrog 01895 202 840 www.leapfrog.co.uk LeapFrog’s advertising activity kicked off in July with a TV campaign for the LeapStart Interactive Learning System. The second of five bursts started in August, and TV will continue through to November, with over 1200 TVR’s expected. Twenty-second TV adverts will be placed on key dual viewing channels to target both parents and kids, while a digital campaign will target over four million mums.

LeapStart is also receiving a huge PR effort including a partnership with influencer Vicki Psarias of Honest Mum who has developed 10 top tips for parents with children starting school this year.

In July, LeapFrog’s new Scoop and Learn Ice Cream Cart was introduced to over 300,000 mums in beautiful imagery through Takumi’s Instagram influencer network. The role-play range will be on TV from August to December with four bursts of 20-second commercials and over 900 TVRs. The TV activity will be complemented with video on demand as well as a digital campaign.

Three bursts of 20 second TV commercials will continue to showcase LeapFrog’s family of first tablets for kids and its licensed content.

With over 950 TVRs planned, this will run from September all the way through until the end of November.

Pony club Schleich 01279 870000 www.schleich-s.co.uk The Horse Club collection will benefit from an extensive digital campaign on the Pop Fun platform, reaching millions of children. Added to this will be promotional TV space for Horse Club on the Pop Fun channel. Schleich Dinosaurs and the Wildlife Range will also be supported.

Everyone loves PJs!

Gearing up for the big day!

Character Options 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com In the run up to Christmas, Character Options will deliver a high profile marketing plan for its key brands.

Snuggles My Dream Puppy from the Little Live Pets range was one of the most exciting and sought after Christmas gifts in 2016! For 2017, Snuggles will make a return to TV screens along with the new Cuddles My Dream Kitty. Cuddles will also star in its own TV commercial as Christmas approaches. Also from the Little Live Pets property is the new Ladybugs who will scamper onto the small screen in a series of TV adverts. Little Live Pets Ladybugs will also star in a digital campaign on the Pop Fun platforms with further promotional TV space.

Character’s creative play portfolio is also not to be missed with extensive TV support from this month through to November. The new Cutie Stix play advert shows how to create stunning jewellery.

Character also begins its pre-Christmas TV advertising for Oonies. The new advert for Easy Braids will be on screens from August through to November, showing girls just how fun and easy it is to braid and style their hair.

This is just a snapshot of Character Options’ preChristmas TV advertising; Peppa Pig, Teletubbies, Ben and Holly, Stretch Armstrong and Vac-Man, and Scooby Doo will all benefit from TV spots as Christmas approaches.

Flair Just Play 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk PJ Masks will be a priority for Just Play this autumn with 1000 TVRs expected between now and December.

As well as adverts promoting the popular figure and vehicle assortments there will also be a new advert for the PJ Masks HQ Playset.

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TRANSFORM FROM PLANE TO ROBOT

12.5CM TALL

TRANSFORMING VEHICLES

WORLD AIRPORT PLAYSET

90 CM LONG LIGHTS, SOUNDS AND PHRASES FROM THE SHOW

© 2017 Funny Flux / Alpha All rights reserved.

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FEATURE

PRE-CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING

From Peru with love Rainbow Designs 01329 227300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Paddington will not only be appearing on cinema screens this winter when Paddington 2 premieres in November but everyone’s favourite bear will also be appearing on small screens in exclusive adverts for Rainbow Designs’ movie range of feature plush toys.

The movie range includes two new feature plush toys for 2017; Dancing Paddington and Cycling Paddington, both of which star in the new range commercial that will air AW17 with 500-plusTVRs. Youngsters will love dancing along to the calypso rhythm with Dancing Paddington as the fun-loving bear swings his hips to the beat of the music. Dancing Paddington comes with his traditional blue toggle coat which can be reversed to reveal a brightly coloured calypso-style shirt.

The adventurous Paddington is now off on his bike too! The new Cycling Paddington will see the lovable character having plenty of fun and adventures as he cycles around on his red bicycle to a catchy tune!

Welcome to Dreamtopia MATTEL 01628 500000 www.mattel.com Barbie will support key segment Dreamtopia with a look at all new magical kingdom Sweetville. TV will support the Barbie Dreamtopia Sweetville Princess Doll, Carriage and Castle. Barbie Dolphin Magic is an all new underwater adventure with key products featuring on TV. Also new on TV for AW17 is Barbie DreamHorse, and further TV campaigns include the Barbie Camper and new Barbie Newborn Pups.

AW17 saw the launch of brand new Enchantimals with the Enchantimals Doll/Animal Assortment with TV campaigns to support the dolls, playsets and vehicles and DC Super Hero Girls will power up with TV campaigns on the 12 inch action dolls assortment.

The Hot Wheels range includes TV campaigns for the impressive Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage playset, the epic new Hot Wheels Roto Revolution trackset, plus the thrilling Hot Wheels Track Builder Stunt Bridge kit. Disney Pixar’s Cars 3 Florida Speedway Playset and Movie Moves McQueen will also receive TV support. Other key TV support will air for Justice League, WWE Tough Talkers and Fisher-Price.

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Magnetic marketing MAGFORMERS 08000 385195 www.magformers.co.uk Following the success of its extensive pre-Christmas TV advertising last year, and additional airtime in April and May, Magformers has committed to another Q4 campaign for 2017.

Planned airtime partners currently include CITV, the Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr and Kix, with the magnetic toy brand pledging to support its existing stockists and new retail partners that have come on board in 2017, including John Lewis and Toys R Us. Magformers has launched a number of new sets this year. UK sales for Jan-July 2017 are up 107 per cent year-on-year.

Bugged out RAVENSBURGER 01869 363 800 www.ravensburger.com Ravensburger will support key games and puzzles with a massive £1m TV advertising campaign, starting in mid-September and continuing well into December.

The highly-targeted TV campaign will be screened across the UK and Ireland, and features six different TV advertisements focusing on seven different children’s and family games, 3D Puzzle Shapes and 3D Puzzle Buildings.

Deck the halls EPOCH MAKING TOYS 08435 574062 www.sylvanianfamilies.net Epoch making toys is ensuring Sylvanian Families and Aquabeads toys end up as gifts under the tree this Christmas having secured 4500 TVRs aimed at girls aged four to nine.

The adverts focus on best-selling and newly launched items, and will be extended into January to capture pocket money spend during the busy sales season. Adverts will be targeted at all major children’s channels, across both brands.

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Feature

PreChristmas

Discover what’s trending

Sing it loud and proud!

Worlds Apart 0845 602 2119 www.worldsapart.com Worlds Apart is upping its investment in pre Christmas TV advertising this year, with its biggest ever TV slate. With TV advertising campaigns having already started and running until December, Worlds Apart will showcase a whole host of exciting products on the small screen, including hotly anticipated new games, Spin to Sing and Woofy Whoops, as well as 2016 Top Toy SelfieMic and a number of GoGlow night lights.

The pre-Christmas media plan amounts to over 4000 TVRs and includes advertising campaigns for seven lines in total: Spin to Sing, Woofy Whoops, SelfieMic, My Little Pony GoGlow Magic, Disney Princess GoGlow Magic, Spider-Man GoGlow Pal and Cars Lightning McQueen GoGlow Pal. Of the seven TV advertised lines, SelfieMic and the My Little Pony GoGlow Magic Night Light were advertised during the pre Christmas period in 2016 and were a great success at retail, while the other five lines are brand new products that are being introduced this year.

Worlds Apart’s debut in the games category will be marked by new games, Spin to Sing and Woofy Whoops which will be TV advertised from September-December. The heavyweight TV campaigns will run alongside a digital advertising campaign to children and parents, as well as influencer partnerships.

The company has also significantly invested in TV advertising on its night light brand, GoGlow, with four lines in total being advertised between July and December. The brand’s move to a more toyetic night light design combined with compelling TV commercials has proven to be a winning-formula in past seasons. Worlds Apart will look to replicate that this year with TV advertising on its newest Cars, Disney Princess and Spider-Man SKUs, combined with digital marketing to parents.

Trends UK 01295 768078 www.trendsuk.co.uk Trends UK will be supporting their Peppa Pig ELA’s range and science toys like the Discovery Planetarium as the nights draw in.

Megableu Games will benefit from innovative TV campaigns for new launches Tumball and Beat the Flush as well as classic favourites Creepy Hand and Ghost Hunt Evolution.

Trends UK ranges are also being promoted with marketing and PR campaigns targeting gift guides, social media, blogs and lifestyle media opportunities.

Luna love!

Funrise

01908 555640 www.funrise.com Funrise will be pulling out all the stops when it comes to marketing the new master toy collection for preschool license, Luna Petunia. The campaign will be centred on TV advertising throughout November. Delivering additional awareness and providing key interaction with the Luna brand and toy range will be digital activity on Tiny Pop during late October.

This activity will include a fully branded microsite, advertising banners and the ever important TV Drivers.

The TV advertising and digital campaigns will be supported by a plethora of other marketing and PR activities including kids press advertising, competitions, parental outreach and YouTube unboxing.

Digital advertising is at the core of the marketing drive for Tonka and substantial impressions and TV drivers are due to be delivered during October and November. The digital plan includes a fully branded microsite on the online Tiny Pop network which will be accompanied by pre-roll activity across SuperAwesome’s kid’s networks.

Further marketing and PR will take place across the entire Tonka collection including monthly Tonka Tough Mothers blogging projects, competitions, unboxings, and more.

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Trade

opinion

Trade talk This month, Team TnP catches up with some of the industry’s finest to talk Snapchat, in-store theatre and retail reaction for new launches

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

We explore the hottest topics

Mark Hillier Managing Director, Click Distribution

James Triptree Sales, Bruder UK agent The Sales Partnership Recent research suggests YouTube is used less by kids than Snapchat . How does Snapchat influence your business?

A balanced portfolio between the two is required. YouTube is still very highly viewed and offers more depth than Snapchat. Snapchat is however coming up fast on the rails.

John Lewis is giving its staff drama training to improve the customer experience. Is there enough theatre in UK retail?

There is not enough theatre in-store and few retailers get behind it. I think John Lewis must be commended for their action.

Which of your products are getting a great reaction from retail?

The new Bruder Ambulance is just hitting the market and being really well received.

Research suggests YouTube is used less by kids than Snapchat. How does Snapchat influence your business?

It’s clear Snapchat is a dominant social platform for kids today but it’s not something we’ve considered. We have to look at what’s going to be most effective and it does have its limitations.

For now, we are focusing our efforts on YouTube as this is an area that's already proved successful for us.

John Lewis is giving its staff drama training to improve the customer experience. Is there enough theatre in UK? As a supplier, we always try to support any of our retail partners who demonstrate a desire to display and sell our ranges effectively and imaginably. We are happy to say there are many retailers who can demonstrate the importance of these skills, from the big multiples to creative independent traders.

Which of your products are getting a great reaction from retail?

Our core paper collectables business from Panini and Topps are still doing exceptionally well, particularly in the sports category, and will grow significantly in the coming year again. We are also delighted with the sales of our licensed children’s hair products and jewellery ranges, the Shimmer and Shine ranges are excelling currently.

eight H eavyw AW17 TV marketing

Play sets now available!

For orders, please contact Dan Sugrue: 0203 598 0272 · dsugrue@jazwares.com 90

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WATCH OUT FOR‌ The monthly focus on products that are hot right now and can help you sell more

Our Briell Generati on ea www nd Rees .john e dolls -cran

Shopping Trol ley, the Honeybake Col lection

by Le Toy Van

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Roller Co aster Challenge game www.pau

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Plum Farmhouse Kitchen

Sylvanian Families Starry Point Lighthouse

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mos.co www.thamesandkos

66 JULY

2014

Watch out For Single.indd 1

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05/09/2017 11:43

Feature Bath Time

Creating a splash!

Tomy

Children have been bubbling with excitement over bath toys for decades – but they’ve come a long way since the days of rubber ducks and simple plastic boats.

TnP looks at the latest lines bringing rich, beneficial play to bath time

A

s well as bringing humour, colour and conversation to an everpresent part of the daily family routine, bath toys also encourage children’s motor skills, and promote role-play, turn-taking and numerous other benefits — as well as fuelling their creative juices.

This is a toy sector that’s not limited by seasonal factors, is popular with retailers and customers alike because it won’t break the bank and is also much loved by both children and their parents.

“

The key to the success of the bath toy sector is all about the right blend of innovative design and feeding children’s imaginations Michelle Probert, Juratoys

Secrets of success “I think bath toys will always be popular, because for many working parents it’s one of the few times in the week where you get quality time with your children,” says Michelle Probert, Sales and

Juratoys

Marketing Manager for Jura Toys.

“The key to the success of the bath toy sector is all about the right blend of innovative design and feeding children’s imaginations.

“Some children don’t enjoy bath time, or might even have sensory issues with the water – but bath toys can play a huge part in distracting them and helping them learn to love it.”

Nicola Jenkins, Head of UK Marketing for Tomy, says the brand’s renowned Toomies baby and toddler bath range is all about building on the fun element of bathtime for consumers of all ages.

“Bath time is a very special time for parents to bond with their children and we really utilise those consumer insights to drive our product development for Toomies,” she explains. “Our toys provide hands-on fun and unexpected surprises for both generations.”

For Skip Hop, it’s the timeless aspect to bath-time toys and products that’s a crucial part of their enduring success.

“Of course bath-time toys are firstly about encouraging babies and toddlers to get in the water, and then getting everyone involved in the fun,” says Gemma Stokes, Skip Hop UK’s Marketing Executive.

“But all of our bath toys are quite timeless and I think that’s a really important part of their appeal.

“The same toy that keeps a baby fascinated can equally be as

fun for a five or six-year-old, and consumers also want something that’s durable and well made with multifaceted features.

“It’s this timeless element that I think drives year-round sales of bath toys, although we do see a sales spike at Christmas. Great bath toys are all about brilliant design combined with functionality – which fits in perfectly with the Skip Hop slogan Must-Haves, Made Better.”

Tradition meets technology As a continually popular toy sector bath time products need to push design boundaries as well as fuel creative imaginations.

“Consumers are always looking for more for their money, and so technology is certainly something they’re interested in when it comes to bath toys,” Gemma says.

“Light, noise and music are all important features for our products.”

“The key when it comes to the future of the bath sector is about taking traditional toys and moving them forward with great design features,” says Michelle.

“That’s certainly what we do at Alex Brands. Such as taking something simple like stacking cups for the bath and adding a fun turtle character to them.”

So forget the old rubber ducks, the diversity of new products on offer is dazzling — and sure to catch the eyes of shoppers.

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05/09/2017 16:58

Meet the New

Hands on Fun!

Sandy The Sealion

Foam Cone Factory

Octopals

Bubble Blast Train

Toomies love to have fun!

In a world dominated by learning and developmental messages, Toomies stands for ‘sheer joy of play’.

So, get ready to play…beep, bop, squirt and splash!

New 2017

Sort & Pop UFO

• TV and VOD Shake & Sort Cupcakes

• Digital partnership with Made for Mums • POS, Digital retail assets • Toomies instore playdates in partnership with Fundamentally Children Mr ShopBot

Contact us today to find out more.

Phone: 01392 281 928 Email: ukcustomerservices@tomy.com www.uk.tomy.com

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FEATURE BATH TIME

Skip, hop and splash!

SKIP HOP 01582 434250 www.skiphop.com Skip Hop, a much-loved global lifestyle brand devoted to designing innovative products for parents, babies and kids comes bearing two adorable new bathtime toys!

Tub time is a slam dunk with the Skip Hop Zoo Bathtime Basketball. Easily secure the suction cup basketball hoop to glass or tile, then get ready to splash and score.

It comes with three ball squirties that store right in the drawstring net when playtime is over. Another bathtime favourite, the Zoo Fill Up Fountain, helps baby learn all about cause and effect. Just dunk the Bee bath fountain in water, then lift it out by the easy-grab handles to create a fun water umbrella effect.

A buzzworthy addition to little ones’ water toys collection.

Slime time!

ZIMPLI KIDS

Underwater exploring

08454 591 818 www.zimplikids.com

LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819 380 www.learningresources.co.uk Explore underwater worlds without goggles with the GeoSafari Jr Underwater Explorer Boat.

The glass-bottom boat features a clear, magnified plastic floor that enables children to peer into the depths with three times magnification.

Perfect for exploration and discovery, it is the ideal activity for bath time and features a ring-buoy wrist strap with breakaway safety cord, steering wheel and spinning propellers.

Absolutely splashing!

GP FLAIR 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk

The world has gone slime crazy! Slime is the new trend with kids all over the world and Zimpli Kids has the perfect products for this gunky craze.

It’s bestselling line, Slime Baff, magically transforms boring bath water into gooey oozy slime and back again by just adding more H2O. Bath time is no longer a daily struggle full of tantrums, it’s a fun and unique experience. Slime Baff has contributed hugely to the 2.5 billion views the Zimpli Kids YouTube campaign has clocked up since October 2015. Slime Baff is 100 per cent safe on skin, made in the UK and environmentally friendly, so can be disposed of safely and easily down the plughole.

Just Play’s range of PJ Masks toys is expanding this autumn with the introduction of new Water Squirting characters.

The PJ Masks Water Squirters let fans of the pre-school licence have hours of bath time fun by filling the characters with water and squirting it back out again. The pack comes with all three pyjama wearing heroes so little ones can have endless bath time adventures with the whole crew.

PJ Masks is supported by a full marketing and PR programme.

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Rub a Dub Fun in the Tub NEW

Turning Bath Time into Fun Time!

60 amazing bath products to choose from

32 High Park Road • Kew Gardens • Richmond • TW9 4BH • United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)20 8878 2133 | janod.com - kaloo.com - alexbrands.com

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FEATURE BATH TIME

Light up bath play LITTLE TIKES 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk Little Tikes Sparkle Bay range is the only line of bath and water toys that magically light up as kids play.

This range of active and engaging light-up bath play comes with multi-coloured LED lights, motion activated by water contact and motion. There are four SKUs aimed at pre-school children aged 18 months to three years.

Bubbling fun TOMY 01392 281928 www.tomy.com Tomy continues to excel in the bath category with exciting multipletoys-in-one from Tomy Toomies including the Bubble Blast Train, Sandy The Sea Lion and Spin and Splash Jellyfish. Simply scoop up water to fill the Bubble Blast Train then pull the lever to make bubbles. Little-ones can also use Captain Seagull as a pouring cup and twist the yellow lever to release the water from the train.

Spin and Splash Jellyfish is another great toy for getting little ones used to the water, dip the Jellyfish underwater to fill it up and hold it high above baby’s head to see the tentacles spin and splash water.

Also new to the Toomies collection is Sandy The Sea Lion. Set Sandy going by pressing the button on his back and watch him bob along. Place the ball on Sandy’s nose and he spins the ball all on his own. Parents and toddler can join in Sandy’s show and fling the ring over his head.

Who’s on the foam?

JUMBO GAMES 01707 289289 www.jumbo.eu The 4n1 Shaped Foam Bath Time Puzzles from Jumbo are the perfect toys to make bath time even more entertaining for children aged three-plus and parents.

Each Bath Puzzles pack has four brightly-coloured shaped puzzles that float on the water and can be stuck to the bath and tiles without leaving any marks. These entertaining Bath Puzzles are available across multiple licensed ranges depicting popular characters that little ones know and love including Thomas & Friends, Peppa Pig, Disney Princess Ariel and Bob the Builder.

Geography in the tub JURATOYS 020 8878 2133 www.juratoys.co.uk It’s geography class in the tub!

Kids can learn about world geography while soaking in the bath with animals and fun landmarks. Featuring foam puzzle pieces that float and stick to the wall when wet, the set includes 29 colourful foam pieces and a suction cup mesh bag for storage. It’s recommended for children three years of age and older.

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Bath time has never been so much fun with our selection of tub time toys!

WWW.SKIPHOP.COM

Skip Hop.indd 1 UK Trade Magazine Advert_ToysnPlaythings_240X315.indd 1

TO BECOME A STOCKIST CONTACT: Email: ukoffice@skiphop.com | Tel: 01582 434250

17/08/2017 11:45 8/16/17 12:23 PM

TNP

LOOKS BACK

Step back in time A rather personal look back through time beginning with September 1987, 1997, 2007 and 2012 by TnP Founder and MD Malcolm Naish

September 2012 September 2012 Volume 31 Number 12

• We interview Jamie Kerruish – head of trading at Boots on their toy offering. Their big seller for Christmas is the LeapPad Explorer 2 and their LEGO Minifigures have been a big hit throughout the year.

• Group Ludendo pay £60 million to buy Hamleys adding this historic toy store to the 300 or so they already own across Europe.

• Gary Grant predicts his top five toys for Christmas. They are Nerf, Furby, Moshi Monsters, Trash Pack from Flair and of course LEGO. • Corgi celebrate 50 years of producing Bond’s DB5. It must be worth a fortune now if you own the original from 1966.

• I loved our ‘Toy Watcher’s’ comment on Nick Clegg at the Liberal Conference “Tax the rich more – he sounds like Dick Turpin without the Turpin”.

September 2007 • I am saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Stephens. He was a lovely guy and a very good toy agent, spending his life in the toy trade representing the likes of Harbutt’s Plasticine.

• My long-term mate Pete Brennan sells his company Toybrokers to Drumond Park for an undisclosed fee.

• Sue Barratt is to head up the UK arm of Meccano following her 10 years as boss of Mega Brands in the UK. • Mattel issue a third recall, apologising for design faults in the recalled magnetic toys. The third recall was for levels of lead paint in a number of Barbie branded pet and furniture playsets plus three Fisher-Price toys.

• As a global company Mattel have been quick to recall and in the process improved their testing operations.

September 1997 • Bandai’s Tamagotchi reigns supreme. It must make Toy of the Year in January.

• I love their Elvisgotchi, ideal for oldies like myself. He starts life as the slim King of rock ‘n’ roll, but fed on a diet of hamburgers, fries and peanut butter sandwiches he develops into an overweight slob. Rather than exercising he stands in front of the mirror swinging his hips and definitely looking ‘All shook up’. However well you look after him, he won’t live beyond the age of 41.

• Teletubbies are also a licensing brand that have really taken off. Those licensees who backed them from the start such as Golden Bear and Ronnie Yaffee are reaping the benefits of their gamble.

• We start our first ‘Letter from America’ written by Norman Walker following his move to the States as boss of K’Nex. It was one of my better ideas as Norman continued to write for many years on the differences between the UK and USA toy industries.

• Roger Dyson leaves Ertl after a 12 year stint served with great distinction.

• The Spice Girls hit the shelves as 12cm. fashion figures.

September 1987 • We are offering our Earls Court hotel deal at the Kensington Hilton at a mere £56 for a single and £71 for a double.

• The BTHA are looking at the possibility of a permanent Toy Centre, possibly on the Caledonian Road in London.

• It of course never bore fruit.

• A very young-looking Denis Horton (pictured right) is promoted to deputy MD at Tonka.

• I loved a piece printed in our ‘Grapevine’ page. Evidently residents of Pontypool were horrified to learn via a printed circular that their local care home was being turned into a Leper colony, the sufferers to be brought over from Africa to populate the care home.

• On checking, the circular was sent by a publishing company promoting a game called ‘The Complete revenge kit’. The local council were trying to find the culprit to sue them for libel by implication.

• Good to see the high salaries being offered in 1987. LJ Associates were looking for sales executives - £15,000 plus company car.

• Our thought for the month in September was “Bigamy is having one wife too many. Monogamy is sometimes the same!”

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DON’T MISS…

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 contact now!

Product: Drone Force Morph Zilla Company: Alpha Animation & Toys Tel: 01293 804599

Product: Miraculous Ladybug Zoomin’ Ladybug Scooter Company: Bandai UK Tel: 020 8324 6180 Web: www.bandai.co.uk

Product: LeapStart Interactive Learning System Company: LeapFrog Toys Tel: 01235 555545 Web: www.leapfrog.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2017 Don't Miss.indd 1

Product: Shuffle Aqua Company: Cartamundi Tel: 01268 511522 Web: www.cartamundi.com/en

Product: My Mermaid Lagoon – Pearl’s Lagoon Company: Interplay UK Tel: 01628 488944 Web: www.interplayuk.com

Product: Ride-on Vespa Company: Peg Perego Tel: 07743 878084 Web: www.pegperego.co.uk

Product: Seek’O Blocks Company: Chelford Ltd Tel: 0161 737 1881 Web: www.chelfordltd.com

Product: Wasgij Original 27: The 20th Party Parade! 1,000-Piece Puzzle Company: Jumbo Games Tel: 01707 289289 Web: www.jumbo.eu

Product: Flip Zee Girls Company: Vivid Imaginations Tel: 01483 449944 Web: www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk

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31/08/2017 14:46

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