EVENT FOCUS: NEW YORK TOY FAIR
APPLE WATCH
The countdown is on until the eyes of the global toy community turn to New York City for Toy Fair, which runs at the Javits Center from 1-4 March. PPS catches up with Kimberly Carcone, evp of global events at The Toy Association, to find out more on what’s planned.
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fter a year off in 2024, New York will once again play host to the global toy community in March when Toy Fair returns to the Javits Center. “It remains the most influential industry event in the Western Hemisphere, offering exposure and business opportunities for all - from first-time exhibitors and up-and-coming international companies looking to enter the US market, to buyers, press and the inventor community,” Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global events at The Toy Association tells PPS. More than 750 exhibitors will be showcasing their products from 1-4 March, while some 196 will be exhibiting at the show for the first time. “Showcasing at Toy Fair for a new company means
opportunities,” says Kimberly. “The opportunity to connect with buyers from top US companies; the opportunity for
Above: Over 750 exhibitors will be taking their place on the show floor from 1-4 March 2025. Below: Kimberly Carcone.
international companies to gain a foothold in the North American marketplace; and the opportunity to network and learn throughout the four-day show's various events and programming, like Toy Fair University sessions that cover topics ranging from the impact of AI to the power of social media in driving marketing solutions. “However, there is also a massive opportunity for all attendees to interact with these new and emerging companies. New ideas and new talent are the lifeblood of our industry, and Toy Fair is where those toy ideas come to life. You never know where the next big toy will be discovered, but many have debuted at Toy Fair.” When it comes to retailer attendance, to date, there are retailers registered from 48 US states and 53 countries/territories and counting, including 15 of the top 25 toy retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, Macy’s, Barnes & Noble and Five Below.
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09/01/2025 13:15