Toy World January 2019

January 2019 Volume 8 Issue 5

NEW TOYS ON SALE

FIRE BREATHING TOOTHLESS

NOW!

DELUXE DRAGONS

FROM

In Cinemas on 1st February 2019 How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World © 2019 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The Team...

CONTENTS January 2019 Volume 8 Issue 5 70 Hot Properties

92 Retailer of the Year Awards

John Baulch

Publisher and Managing Editor john@toyworldmag.co.uk 01442 502 408 07932 651 207

Mark Austin

Sales Director mark@toyworldmag.co.uk 01442 502 405

Anita Baulch

Circulation and Financial Director anita@toyworldmag.co.uk 01923 711 439

News

Opinion

Features

09 From the Publisher

32 NPD column

46 Special Feature: Amazon

10 News

35 Talking Shop

70 Hot Properties

20 Industry Moves

62 Viewpoint

92 Retailer of the Year Awards

22 Marketing World

284 Allegedly

100 Nuremberg Preview 140 New York Toy Fair Preview

28 Licensing World

144 Special Feature: Fence Club

50 Fresh

146 Toy Fair Calendar

Contributors Rachael Simpson-Jones

David Ripley | Matt Smith | Vance Withers | Philip Bloom | The NPD Group | Mark Buschhaus | Stephen Barnes | Jonathan Chambers

Editor rachael@toyworldmag.co.uk 01442 502 406

Casey Goodman

Editorial Assistant casey@toyworldmag.co.uk 01442 502 406

100 Nuremberg Preview

Mark Crowford

Design and Production Manager markc@toyworldmag.co.uk 01442 502 405

140 New York Toy Fair Preview

toyworld The business magazine with a passion for toys

Alakat Published by

61 Maxted Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7DZ

www.toyworldmag.co.uk @toyworldmag @baulchtweet

toyworldmag

Toy World Magazine

CONTENTS Interviews

Toy Fair Preview

42 Brian McLaughlin - Toymaster

148 Toy Fair 2019 Preview

56 Mary Wood - Tomy

156 Exhibitor List

60 Michelle Lilley - Little Tikes

162 Touching Base: Toy Fair 2019

130 Michael Hick - Mattel

172 Toy Fair Exhibitor Guide

132 Richard North - Wow! Stuff 138 Steve Pasierb - The Toy Association

toyworld The business magazine with a passion for toys

See us at Toy Fair stand GH37 Toy World 6

W

hether you are one of those companies which ended last year on a high, or one which was glad to see the back of it, I think we can all agree on one thing: 2018 was an unprecedented year in so many respects.

Turbulent, tumultuous, unpredictable, volatile – and yet, if you think we reached ‘peak drama’ over the past 12 months, 2019 looks like it will be an even wilder ride.

from the publisher

John Baulch - @Baulchtweet

It certainly wasn’t all bad news – there were winners and losers, just as there are in every economic cycle. On the retail side, the demise of Toys R Us was predicted to offer significant opportunities to other toy retailers, and there is no question that some operations did benefit.

Smyths, The Entertainer, Shop Direct and B&M, as well as many specialist independent chains and outlets, can all look back on 2018 as a year of strong progress. Conversely, other retailers had a year to forget: the merger of Argos and Sainsbury’s led to a business which was described by many suppliers as being “in total disarray” for most of the year.

The supermarket channel as a whole didn’t have a great year; in-store space was cut back, online operations were curtailed and there was the general sense that the grocers were more focused on their food business than their non-food offering. Many department stores fared little better, while the year closed with rumours of the potential sale of Hamleys.

Likewise, the supply side saw some companies enjoy a barnstorming year, while others will no doubt be delighted to draw a line under 2018 and move on. Past performance is no guarantee of future prospects; a new year has begun and the dial has been turned back to zero for everyone. 2019 will unquestionably be a year of fresh opportunities and fresh challenges, and Toy World is looking forward to bringing you every twist and turn as it happens.

By the time you are reading this weighty tome, Toy Fair Season will already be in full swing – I’ll be on the first leg of my travels in Hong Kong, while London, Nuremberg and New York will all play host to the toy community over the next six weeks.

This issue contains details of a host of exciting new launches from all the leading toy companies.

No-one can afford to sit on their laurels; new products are the lifeblood of the toy market, and over the coming weeks, we finally get to see the lines which will be driving the business over the coming year. Our extensive previews of London Toy Fair and Nuremberg, together with our special pull-out supplement dedicated to Spring Fair, will give you all the information you need, whichever events you will be visiting.

Of course, there are some things which we can influence as an industry: other political and macroeconomic factors are way beyond our control.

Thus, the current chaotic Brexit situation casts an ominous shadow over every UK business right now.

At the time of going to press, we are still weeks away from a parliamentary vote on which form of Brexit we may choose to adopt, while the media has even talked about the army being deployed in the event of a no-deal Brexit. I genuinely wonder what our international business partners think about us right now.

For now, all we can do is focus on the things we can control. Great products, great partnerships, great marketing, great promotional strategies – these are the factors that help the toy market to thrive. Whatever happens in the political arena over the coming weeks, that will not change.

As an industry, we may have to be more reactive, more flexible and more creative in our approach to problem-solving than ever before – but the toy community is nothing if not resourceful. We have faced many challenges before and we will face many more in the future.

That’s all from me for now – enjoy this monster issue, which is packed to the brim with new products, the latest news, thought-provoking opinions and analysis, fresh ideas and all the information you need to help make the forthcoming Toy Fair Season a huge success. The whole Toy World team looks forward to seeing as many of you as possible over the coming weeks, and keeping you updated on all the latest developments from the world of toys via our ‘finger on the pulse’ website. Will the mantra of 2019 be ‘embrace the possibilities’ or ‘embrace the madness’ – or perhaps a little of both?

HARDWORKING PR FOR TOYS & GAMES B2B & consumer-facing PR Hands-on, bespoke approach Award-winning team of senior PR professionals Specialist understanding of the toys, games & fun sector

CONTACT +44 (0)1908 299 088 www.playtimepr.com Playtime Strip Advert_v4.indd 1

Toy World 9

16/03/2018 10:13

News University Games to combine UK operations with Paul Lamond

The Entertainer announces acquisition of Spanish toy retailer Poly

University Games is excited to announce that it is combining its UK operations with Paul Lamond Games in 2019.

In celebration of the company’s 34th Anniversary, it was also announced that Richard Wells will become the managing director of the merged University Games UK business, effective from 1st April 2019.

From 1st February, sales to independent stores will be managed by the Paul Lamond Games sales force for all University Games products. For independent retailer accounts, all orders can be placed for shipment from one facility with a single free carriage rate.

Bob Moog, president of University Games Corporation, commented: “This is a great opportunity for University Games UK and it will give Paul Lamond’s extensive independent account base an easy way to order and stock the University Games line as part of their product range.”

Richard Wells commented: “For our fantastic direct sales team, this provides a wonderful opportunity to offer our independent account base additional games brands, such as Googly Eyes, Pointless and Smart Ass. The University Games’ lines perfectly complement Paul Lamond’s comprehensive range.”

For National Accounts, Mark Jones will continue to represent Paul Lamond Games ranges, and Wendy Hicks will continue to represent University Games lines for the autumn/winter 2019 selection period.

In 2019, the new combined company is set to offer more than 30 new and exciting games, focused primarily in the pre-school and family games sectors.

The Entertainer has confirmed the acquisition of Poly, a chain of 57 toy shops in Spain.

Poly stores sell a range of toys and games and operate in shopping centres and high streets across Spain, making it an excellent fit for The Entertainer’s business model. Poly was acquired through a competitive bid managed by an administrator, which will result in all 57 of its stores remaining open, saving more than 350 jobs. The acquisition will add to The Entertainer’s growing International footprint, with the retailer aiming to regain the 5% Spanish market share that Poly previously had.

Gary Grant, founder and executive chairman of The Entertainer, commented: “This year has understandably been incredibly turbulent for the Poly team as they faced so much uncertainty, and we look forward to welcoming them to The Entertainer family. The Poly brand will be retained but aligned with The Entertainer’s core values, which put our people and our customers at the very heart of our business.”

“Our immediate focus is to work with our suppliers to ensure that all 57 stores are fully stocked. This will include the introduction of the full range of products from our sister company Addo, which will offer Spanish consumers excellent quality at affordable prices.”

The Entertainer has been expanding internationally for the last five years primarily through its franchise programme, resulting in the opening of over 30 stores in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

The Poly acquisition is part of a growth plan that will expand the company’s international reach and is the retailer’s first full European acquisition; it is a significant milestone for the business that takes its total locations to over 300.

MARKETING & DISTRIBUTING BRANDS

11 Deer Park Road, Northampton, NN3 6QD, UK • tel. 01604 678780 • email. sales@dkl.co.uk • www.dkltoys.co.uk

Š2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

News Addo Play enters into exclusive agreement with Toys R Us Canada

Top-Toy files for bankruptcy restructuring

The retailer has announced a strategic multi-year exclusive supply agreement with Addo Play Ltd, a vertical division of The Entertainer UK Ltd. The multi-year deal is expected to significantly step up Addo Play’s global trading footprint, making Toys R Us Canada a pivotal part of the UK startup’s growth trajectory and plans. The Addo Play range will be available in stores across Canada, as well as online, from January 2019.

Melanie Teed-Murch, president of Toys R Us Canada, commented: “We’re truly excited to be partnering with Addo Play to enhance our exclusive selection of toys for our customers. The company’s toy range is impressive and customer focused, so being able to offer this exclusively in Canada is an achievement and partnership we are proud to reveal.”

Toys R Us Canada has been looking for new, innovative routes of supply to augment its differentiated and exclusive offerings. Addo Play’s ranges, including Nick Jr Ready Steady Dough, Pitter Patter Pets, B Friends and Nickelodeon Liquid Lava Putty, among many others, offer excellent value for money and are designed with care, presenting a differentiated solution.

“We cannot wait to help Toys R Us Canada to build upon its complementary range of exclusive toys,” commented Mary Price and Dave Martin, co-founders of Addo Play. “Addo Play’s uniquely curated range of toys offers consumers a high-quality choice of products through our design-led categories which include compounds, craft, mechanical plush, science and dolls to name a few. We’re also in the midst of planning the creation of many new lines that will be developed exclusively for Toys R Us Canada.”

The largest chain of toy stores in the Nordic countries is to be streamlined. As a result of “significant changes in the way consumers buy toys”, the board of directors of Top-Toy has filed for restructuring in the bankruptcy court. ”We have not succeeded in making Top-Toy profitable in its current form, and therefore we now have to make fundamental organisational changes by simplifying and optimising the healthy parts of the business,” CEO Per Sigvardsson explained.

This is to prepare for an actual restructuring, which must subsequently be approved by the court.

Top-Toy filed the company’s annual report on Friday 30th November, which shows a negative operating profit of DKK149m and a net loss of DKK2,031m.

Operating profit has been negatively impacted by “very disappointing” Christmas sales in 2017 caused by the implementation of a new ERP system.

The executive management, board of directors and auditors have been unable to approve continued operations without a guarantee of further capital. Top-Toy’s owners, which have previously injected additional capital into the company, don’t wish to invest further, nor increase financing in the current structure. ”We have come a long way and have streamlined large parts of the company, but unfortunately, we have reached a point where a more radical change is called for if the company is to become profitable,” said chairman of the board Michael Hauge Sørensen.

The company now plans to close unprofitable stores, simplify the value chain and adjust fixed costs including support functions at the head office in Vallensbæk in Denmark and in Hong Kong.

This spring, the board of directors introduced a new executive management team in the form of CFO Christian K. H. Jakobsen and CEO Per Sigvardsson.

Christian and Per will now be in charge of creating a “healthy and future-proof Top-Toy”, according to a company statement.

Sky reports potential suitors circling Hamleys Sky News issued a report which claimed that several retailers have told advisers to C.banner International, the current owner of Hamleys, that they are considering bids for the business. These retailers are said to include The Entertainer, Smyths and Sports Direct owner Mike Ashley.

Once the Christmas trading figures are known, formal bids will be submitted. This reflects the importance of the festive trading season to the company’s fortunes.

Hong Kong-listed C.banner, which paid about £100m for Hamleys three years ago, is said to want about £90m for the company, which reported a multimillion pound annual loss in October.

If a deal does take place, it would be Hamleys’ fourth change of ownership in 15 years following a succession of largely failed attempts by a range of international shareholders to expand the renowned brand globally.

One insider said that the strategic review had prompted expressions of interest in buying Hamleys from around the world.

Toy World 12

Š2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

News After Japan openings, Hamleys eyes 15-year lease in prime New York location Reports suggest that Hamleys is close to opening its first store in the US at SL Green’s 2 Herald Square retail unit in New York. The new store would occupy about 30,000 square feet within the building over three floors.

The deal is likely to close at the beginning of 2019, and the store would then open at the beginning of 2020. Hamleys is expected to commit to a 15-year lease, at an asking rent of $8m per year.

The retailer has also marked its entry into the Japanese retail market with the opening of two large, theme park-style outlets.

Business development consultancy firm Intralink brokered a partnership for the iconic retailer with Japanese video games firm Bandai Namco Amusement to form a £300m venture.

The first two stores are located in Yokohama City near Tokyo, which opened on Friday 30th November, and in Fukuoka, western Japan, which opened on Saturday 1st December.

The stores will bring together Hamleys’ and Bandai Namco’s respective retail and entertainment expertise and will feature entertainers, playground attractions including merry-go-rounds, games corners and infant play spaces.

Hamleys plans to open a total of 30 stores in Japan over the next five years through its Bandai Namco partnership, which it said would secure 1000 UK jobs and over 3600 in Japan.

Former Toy State management launch Nikko Toys With their expertise and deep knowledge of the toy trade, Philip Redmond (CEO), John Arndt (SVP of product development), Stephen Skoutas (SVP of global sales) and Laibond Cheng (president), have teamed up to present the new company. Toy vehicles under the Nikko, Road Rippers and Machine Maker brands will launch for autumn/winter 2019.

Nikko Toys CEO Philip Redmond commented: “We are delighted to be able to continue our work together. As a group, we have a great balance of operations, sales, marketing and development experience; and we have the energy and the drive to really capture the imagination of customers and consumers alike.”

Character Group releases yearend financial results The company’s pre-tax profit for the 12 months ended 31st August 2018 was £11.6m, down from £13.4m the previous year, while revenue dropped £9.1m to £106.2m. Underlying basic earnings were 44.3p per share, down from 50.54p in 2017.

Additions made to Character’s key ranges – Peppa Pig, Little Live Pets, Teletubbies and Stretch – have seen sales growing, while its diverse core portfolio has been complemented by craze lines such as Soft ’n Slo Squishies, Cakepop Cuties and Cra.Z.Slimy.

Since completion of the acquisition of a 55% shareholding in Proxy in October 2018, Proxy has secured the exclusive distribution rights for the Nordic region of the Funko range including its Fortnite figurines. The company expects Proxy to be earnings enhancing in first full year.

Character will also be introducing new products and range extensions to its portfolio in the coming months, which will further strengthen the group’s offering for the year ahead.

In its official statement, the company said: “Character has delivered a solid performance in the second half of the year under review and we have started the current year in a healthy position, with a strong and balanced product portfolio and robust UK demand from our customers for our core ranges and new introductions.”

“Macroeconomic factors, including currency volatility, the potential implications of Brexit and the performance of the UK economy generally, will continue to dictate market behaviour in the coming months and our business is not immune from these factors. Notwithstanding this, the board remains confident in its strategy and the group’s flexibility to adapt to change and will continue to strive to grow the business, while facing any challenges as and when they arise.”

Hornby returns to Margate and announces employee profit share Hornby will be moving its offices back to Margate in January, also creating new showrooms at the site in Ramsgate Road.

The company is moving back to its original site, where it also runs its Visitor Centre. Marketing director Simon Kohler, who began his career with firm in the early 70s in Margate, commented: “The total move is expected to be complete by March. This is positive stuff, it is back to the future, and we believe Margate is the home of Hornby. It oozes the creative juices of what Hornby is now and will be in the future.”

Hornby moves back alongside Locomotive Storage Limited, which bought the site to provide storage for locomotives and rolling stock, such as the Bittern which arrived in June. Simon added: “It is terrific. Visitors will be able to see the real thing and see how the models are designed and then buy their own.”

As Hornby continues to make steady progress in its efforts to turn the business around despite falling sales, the company also announced a profit share scheme for its employees.

“Having slammed on the brakes as hard as we could to prevent further damage to the brands from discounting, the trust in the supply chain is starting to move in the right direction,” CEO Lyndon Davies said in a statement.

“Motivation and alignment has been an issue in the past for the business, especially for staff below board level who have not had their fair share of the rewards. As a result, I am proud to announce a profit share scheme for our employees. Employees at all levels who contribute to the success of the business will share in the rewards,” he added.

The company will give staff a one-off 5% bonus for getting to break even and around 15% of operating profit shared between employees thereafter.

Toy World 14

Š2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

News Toy companies refute Which? slime findings

newsanalysis

Game on at Bandai!

Toy World spoke to Nic Aldridge, managing director at Bandai UK, about the company’s entrance into the games market and the titles its new portfolio contains.

What made Bandai decide to enter the games category?

While the board game sector remains strong in the UK, we spotted a gap in the market for accessible, good quality interactive games with a strong mainstream appeal. We decided to partner with games company Zanzoon; its range perfectly combines fun and learning, plus it has a strong reputation for creating engaging, high quality games with an interactive element. We already have products in the gifting/tech gaming space, such as our successful PacMan Plug n Play game, and feel that the Zanzoon range enables us to move into the family game space perfectly.

Can you tell us about the new games in your portfolio?

Zanzoon specialises in creating and manufacturing interactive games for children and families. Its products are designed in France and distributed around the world. We will be distributing the iconic game Magic Jinn; an interactive game featuring a mindreading cat that uses voice recognition to guess the animal the player is thinking of. In addition, we’ll also be launching brand new games Fan Zone and Froggy Party.

Fan Zone features over 500 football related questions. The virtual games master can test players on five football topics to discover the ultimate football fan. The games master does it all; explains the rules, asks the questions, counts the points and gives out the scores, without the need for any additional devices or applications – it’s all in the box.

Froggy Party stimulates imagination, concentration and agility, and boasts 50 different challenges to get kids as young as four years old laughing and moving to music. The interactive frog asks kids to sing, dance or imitate before having them dash to the nearest lily pad, so there’s a strong physical element too. We have had a very strong retail reaction to this game, and firmly believe this is a perennial family favourite in the making.

We’re also expanding our offering the gifting/tech games space with Gorilla Games, bringing the arcade into people’s homes with a range of classic arcade games, all featuring light and sound effects. Punch King is the ultimate boxing arcade game in a portable size; with two modes, players can battle to discover who has the most power.

Hammer King is the ultimate hammer game in finger size; pull your finger back, flick and release to try and hit the high score. We’re also launching Mole King, a finger-sized whack-a-mole game.

In this busy sector, what will make Bandai’s new lines stand out?

The entire range is designed to be fun for all the family, yet cleverly delivers layers of learning and physicality. What really appealed to us is that the games come equipped with their own colourful ‘host’ of sorts, and there’s no need for parents to bring other devices or applications into play; everything a family needs for an interactive and fun gaming experience is in the box. What’s more, it truly feels that the added tech in these games isn’t there just for the sake of it. Instead, they deliver an additional and authentic new play pattern, especially for the audiences they’re aimed at.

Where can retailers see the new games, and when will they be launched?

We’ll be showcasing the games at the Hong Kong and London Toy Fairs, and they launch autumn/winter 2019.

Toy World 16

A Which? report has accused several putty and slime manufacturers of supplying products containing unsafe levels of boron, a common ingredient in slime that helps to create its stickiness. The EU safety limit is 300mg/kg for slime and 1200mg/kg for putty.

Products tested failed Which?’s own laboratory tests, with excessive boron levels. However, Which? declared several putties to be slimes, a claim that the manufacturers are refuting.

Both H.Grossman (HGL) and Keycraft have stated that their products are putties, not slime, and therefore are well within the safe limits for the element, and Zuru and HGL also commissioned independent testing.

HGL obtained reports which confirm that Ghostbusters Slime is technically a putty and that the levels of all elements are well within safety standards. The reports are available to interested parties on request, and were supplied to Which? before it published the story.

Zuru also obtained independent results which confirmed that samples of its product did indeed fall inside safe limits for boron content, and is happy to make the results available upon request.

A statement from Zuru read: “As with all of our products, our Oosh play compound range has been carefully manufactured to the very highest standards and tested by accredited laboratories to ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards. We were therefore surprised by claims made

by Which? that one of two Zuru Oosh products tested allegedly failed to meet requisite safety standards, and disappointed that the allegations were released without obtaining comment from Zuru. The safety of our products is paramount to us and we would like to reassure customers that they can remain confident in the safety and quality of Zuru products.”

A spokesperson for HGL commented: “It is regrettable that a consumer magazine has made an entirely untrue allegation without producing scientific support.”and over 3600 in Japan.

Basic Fun UK appoints Playtime Playtime will work closely with the UK and US teams to manage all aspects of UK trade and consumer PR. This includes handling the UK launch of new collectible plush brand, Cutetitos, which hit UK shelves in December.

Paul Fogarty of Basic Fun UK, commented: “With an expanded portfolio of products in the UK since Basic Fun acquired K’nex, we knew the time was right to bring on board an expert PR team. We chose Playtime as they understand the toy space in the UK and can hit the ground running with one of our most important new brand launches, Cutetitos, whilst also curating and implementing a solid PR programme across K’nex and other Basic Fun brands for 2019. We have a number of new launches to support next year and I’m confident Playtime is the strongest partner we could have wished for.”

Playtime PR’s founder and managing director Lesley Singleton added: “Basic Fun’s portfolio is like a dream toy box of treats for us – we’re not only getting our hands on the mighty K’nex brand, but we’re also going to be able to create campaigns for legendary playthings such as Fisher Price retro toys. Add Cutetitos to that mix and it’s just too exciting really – the whole team is blown away by the burrito-themed range and we’re looking forward to helping make that a huge success for Basic Fun in the UK.”

Š2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

News New distribution deals for Re:creation with Drone Slayer sets and Larva plush

Re:creation has been appointed exclusive UK and Republic of Ireland distributor for the Far Out Toys brand, Drone Slayer.

Launching in autumn 2019, with three new items and a slate of original video content, the Drone Slayer property challenges kids to join the battle against evil invading drones.

Taking blaster play to a whole new level, each set comes with a high-powered blaster and a drone that explosively reacts on impact.

Players can further immerse themselves in the Drone Slayer world online with a multi-episode YouTube series and an interactive website providing training challenges and activities.

Adrian Mayes, Re:creation sales director, commented: “Drone Slayer is truly one to watch. Unleashing something engaging and unique to the blaster world, this concept has real wow factor. The Far Out Toys team brings incredible energy to our industry and this shines through in the Drone Slayer property.”

Re:creation has also signed an exclusive deal to distribute a range of plush toys in the UK based on YouTube animation, Larva.

The hit property currently has almost 4m YouTube subscribers and more than 260 episodes. It features a variety of edgy but endearing CGI animated characters, with limited or no dialogue and great comic action, making it universal in appeal.

The first three Larva series have been streaming on Netflix, and a feature length movie is also in development for 2019.

Now airing in over 150 countries, the show’s YouTube viewing figures have exceeded 50m in September alone, seeing the property draw an audience of over 6m.

Re:creation will work with Larva’s multi-territory licensing partner Commonwealth Toys, to launch a series of plush character toys in the UK,

Kids@Play celebrates record breaking year Kids@Play has undergone a major transformation in the last 12 months which has seen a new personnel structure, the introduction of new ranges, a major warehouse overhaul, and the onboarding of nearly 100 customers. On the anniversary of the change of ownership, the team confirmed that it has set an all-time record for its company turnover.

Nathaniel Southworth, managing director, commented: “It has been an epic first year and I cannot thank everyone enough for their support and encouragement. We have assembled a great team and are working very hard to broaden our ranges to support a vibrant year-round toy business. We remain extremely grateful to all the customers who weren’t afraid to give us a go in 2018, and we look forward to building on this success.

We have a fantastic line up of product for 2019 with new introductions that work for both national and independent retailers. We kick start 2019 with our company rebranded and more exciting product news to come.

Kids@Play will be showing in Hong Kong, London and at Spring Fair. Please contact the team via info@kaptoys.com or by calling 01291 429007.

Goliath appoints Nick Thomas as general manager for Vivid UK Nick has enjoyed many senior management positions during his career at Vivid.

Most recently, Nick held the position of commercial director. He’s now looking forward to this new role managing the UK operation for Goliath, reporting into the group CEO, Jochanan Golad.

Jochanan commented: “Nick’s appointment recognises his wealth of experience in the industry as a well-respected and talented individual, working across retail and with international distribution partners.”

Under the new Goliath structure, Nick will be responsible for all aspects of running the UK market supported by divisional sales directors Gerbie Quilter and Steve Alexander, along with Emma Weber, Leon Jarmolowicz and Darrell Jones, who are responsible for marketing.

“We will continue to benefit from Vivid’s excellent R&D team to bring innovative and great new toy ranges to the market. This, matched with Goliath’s global distribution network, will give us a great opportunity to launch successful new products around the world in 2019 and beyond,” added Jochanan.

Nick stated: “Following the acquisition of Vivid by Goliath, we have an incredibly exciting future ahead building on a strong toy, Crayola and games portfolio supported by bolder marketing plans. Retailers will see the new ranges at Toy Fair with over 20 new Goliath games including the US success Sequence, Lucky Ducks and Gator Golf along with major new developments across Crayola and toys. We are already off to a great start with our new ranges which shipped this month, including a sell-out success for Ryan’s World with lots more to come next quarter.”

Brainstorm to launch Eugy in 2019 Brainstorm will become the exclusive UK distributor of craft brand Eugy in 2019, and will introduce the new collection at London Toy Fair.

Created by New Zealand based Dodoland, Eugy is a range of unique 3D craft collectibles that inspire creativity and are eco-friendly. The opening collection will feature 10 animals and creatures that enable children aged six plus to build beautifully detailed 3D models using biodegradable card cutouts printed with eco-friendly ink and non-toxic glue.

Nick Saunders, sales director at Brainstorm, commented: “We loved Eugy as soon as we saw it and the team at Dodoland is truly innovative so the possibilities to create line extensions are endless. With consumers becoming ever more conscious of our environment, these simple yet creative products will have massive appeal. Our initial range launches at Toy Fair but they are available to pre-order now; visit www.brainstormltd.co.uk/product-category/ eugy/ for more information.”

Toy World 18

Did you hear?

Interplay is launching new and exciting

games Autumn/Winter 2019

TV Advertised

Visit stand G10 to experience the full game line—fun for kids, families and adults!

TV Advertised

For more information please contact: 01628 488944

TV Advertised

email: trade@interplayuk.com

www.interplayuk.com

Industry Moves Cheatwell appoints UK head of sales The company has announced the appointment of Steve Asbey as Cheatwell’s new head of sales for the UK. Steve brings significant toy industry experience to the company following 19 years with Mattel and, prior to that, seven years at Waddingtons.

During his career, Steve has worked closely with the majority of UK toy retailers and is highly respected by those he has worked with.

Rob Eatwell, Cheatwell’s sales director, commented: “It’s great for us to have Steve on board. He has a passion for games, puzzles and toys and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge.”

Steve added: “It’s a great time to be joining Cheatwell as the company’s plans are so strong. We have many fantastic new lines to introduce in 2019 and joining the company takes me back to where I feel I belong, with a British games company offering quality games and toys.”

Mattel announces senior promotions Kelly Philp takes lead role for the UK marketing team, while Helen Genia takes leadership of the UK consumer products team.

Kelly has been with Mattel since 2013, when she joined the marketing team from Hasbro. During her career at Mattel, Kelly has held leadership positions in sales as the GSM for the impulse channel, as well has leading the infant/pre-school marketing team in the UK and Nordics. Kelly will now assume full responsibility of the marketing team.

Michael Hick, UK & Ireland sales & country manager, commented: “I am delighted to continue developing our talent from within our organisation with the appointment of Kelly. She has demonstrated her excellent leadership ability during her past roles in Mattel with determination and passion, and leading the UK marketing team, she will now continue to drive the UK business forward.”

As part of Mattel's continued global focus in establishing an effective franchise management organisation, the company has also announced that Helen Genia is to take charge of the consumer products team in the UK, alongside her current role as head of regional hardlines. Helen will continue to report to Lisa Weger, head of the regional licensing team. She will also report to Michael Hick.

Helen joined Mattel UK in 2014, having previously worked at Hasbro, and has led the hardlines team in the UK and Europe.

Jumbo welcomes new national account manager Carianne Wylie joins the team with over 10 years’ experience of sales and retail management.

Carianne will be looking after a wide variety of key accounts across the company’s portfolio, such as online platforms, toy specialists, high street retailers and garden centres and will be proactively maintaining the company’s strong relations with existing accounts.

Actively looking for new business opportunities for Jumbo’s adult and children’s jigsaw puzzles, strategy board games and wooden toys, Carianne has opened new doors for Jumbo to explore.

Steve Washbourne, sales director, commented: “Carianne has already proved herself to be a fantastic addition to the team. She brings boundless enthusiasm, coupled with a wealth of experience, not only from the toy and game industry, but also fashion and cosmetics. She has already offered a different perspective and new ways to get the very best for Jumbo Games for our loyal retailer base.”

Carianne will be present at both London Toy Fair (Stand E46) and Spring Fair (Hall 5, Stand K64) and is eager to meet new buyers.

Schleich expands UK sales team This year is shaping up to be one of record growth for Schleich UK which has ambitious plans for the future. To this end, the company has expanded its sales team with two key additions.

Jen Hodges joins as key account manager, returning to the toy industry after time at other ventures, following 10 years at Lego.

Kate Watson also joins the team as a key account manager and is also returning to the toy industry after time at John Mills, having previously worked at Hasbro, as well as Johnson & Johnson and Waitrose.

Thomas Randrup, Schleich UK’s country manager, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Kate and Jen to the team. They join us during a year of growth and their experience and pedigree will be great assets as we strive to realise our ambitions for the company. We also welcome them back to the toy industry; their return indicates just what a great industry it is to work in.”

Jen can be contacted on 07990 033651 – jenny.hodges@schleich-s.co.uk, and Kate on 07920 057414 – kate.watson@schleich-s.co.uk.

Toy World 20

Key Account Manager • Package: Competitive Salary, +car, +bonus, +benefits • Location: Midland/Northern based with regular attendance at the Oldham office • Website: www.character-online.co.uk www.thecharacter.com Character Options (part of Character Group plc) is a multi-award winning, forward thinking, top 5, UK toy company with many prestigious toy brands in its portfolio including; Peppa Pig, Laser X, Teletubbies, Pokémon and Little Live Pets. The UK Offices are based in both Oldham, Lancashire and New Malden, Surrey whilst international offices are situated in Hong Kong and China.

The Company has an exciting opportunity for the right sales professional to become a part of its dynamic sales force! The successful candidate will report to the General Sales Manager and will manage and develop existing accounts, whilst always looking for new sales opportunities. He or she will be a great team player with a flexible attitude and an ability to demonstrate the tenacity and personal commitment in reaching sales targets. Being able to work closely with sales support, marketing and operations is also a must in order to deliver the company’s commitment to its customers.

Applications are invited from persons with a proven record in sales and account management within the Toy or FMCG industries, having gained skills from developing key and independent accounts. They will need to be a strong manager and possess the ability to forecast, make sound commercial judgments and see beyond the short-term business challenges that today’s successful companies face. Your career history will demonstrate the ability to drive sales growth in a highly competitive market as well as an understanding of category management, promotional and ranging strategies.

To apply for this much sought after role, send your CV complete with a covering letter and details of your current salary and benefits to annec@charactergroup.plc.uk

Marketing World Big Potato reveals board game vending machine Shoreditch-based indie games company Big Potato has unveiled a new board game vending machine at East London gaming hub, Loading Bar. Customers can purchase a huge range of party games, from the deathdefying adult game Bucket of Doom, to the festive rhyming game Santa Banter.

The vending machine officially launched in November at Loading Bar in Dalston, where it will live out its year-long tenure. To celebrate, Big Potato is giving customers the chance to win an exclusive Potato Plushie whenever they use the machine – customers can look for the special sticker on the back of their new game and, if lucky, go up to the bar to collect their prize.

The Big Potato team also held a Twitch live-stream from Loading Bar on Wednesday 28th November, where they played a wide range of party games.

Big Potato’s Alex Lolies has been working with Loading Bar on the installation and commented: “We’re always looking to do something a bit different and cool.

We have a very good, longstanding relationship with our neighbours at Loading Bar, so this was the perfect opportunity to collaborate on something interesting that will also fit really well into their space.”

James Dance, the owner of Loading Bar, added: “When I got the email from Big Potato suggesting a vending machine, I was excited to have all kinds of snacks up for grabs – it was too awkward for me to say anything once I realised it was board games.”

Readers who are interested in installing a Big Potato Games vending machine of their own should get in touch with alex@bigpotato.co.uk or 0758 8690 997.

Breyer arrives at Hamleys Breyer Model Horses has teamed up with Hamleys to install a purpose-built display showing the quality and wide choice of Model Horses available.

The stand has been especially built for Hamleys to show the beauty of the Model Horses and give customers a true Breyer experience.

David Allan, sales and marketing director, commented: “We are delighted to work with Hamleys to show customers the quality and wide range that Breyer has to offer.”

Going forward, DKL will be supporting Hamleys with promotions, visits and social media activity.

Character maps out Mighty Beanz Golden Beanstalk campaign After a high-profile launch in December, stage two of the marketing for the brand will see Golden Beanstalks take root in UK retailers during February half term.

Kids can collect the bean shaped characters that can be flipped, rolled, raced and battled. TV, kids’ press and digital activity marked the launch and will continue throughout spring. Character is now adding to its marketing plan with experiential retail activity.

Blind bag laden sampling kits will be distributed to 150 stores in February, but the pinnacle of the activity will be 60 Golden Beanstalks packed full of Mighty Beanz Golden Slam Packs appearing at stores during the half term break.

Brand manager Kathryn Ludlam commented: “Where the Golden Beanstalks will grow is a closely guarded secret. But on the day they sprout, we will ensure that fans will be the first to know with a live online map detailing where they are available. The Golden Slam Packs will be highly collectible, and we expect there to be a rush for kids to get their hands on them.”

Golden Beanstalk locations will be announced to fans on a dedicated webpage on launch day and will be seeded through digital and influencer activity. TV, print and covermounts will all coincide with the campaign ensuring heightened consumer awareness throughout the spring.

For more information about Mighty Beanz and other collectible brands from Character Options call 0161 633 9800.

Toy World 22

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Marketing World Character Options unveils this year’s Peppa Pig Collectors Competition After a successful pilot year, Character Options’ Collectors Competition is to run again with an extended selection of 500 new prizes to win.

The competition will coincide with Peppa Pig’s 15th anniversary celebrations, led by Entertainment One (eOne).

From 1st December, tickets will be located inside every Character Options’ Peppa Pig Figure and Accessory pack that carries the special promotional logo, distributed across the retail channel throughout the year. The unique code on each ticket can be checked on the official website, where it will be instantly revealed whether the prize is one of the 500 included on an impressive list of Peppa Pig merchandise.

Working alongside eOne and other Peppa Pig licensees, the prizes include a wide variety from the current Character Options Peppa Pig collection, including bicycle helmets, DVDs, books, posters and family tickets to Paulton’s Park – the home of Peppa Pig World.

Laura Gunton, Character Options’ brand manager, commented: “Last year’s Collectors Competition was so successful that we have decided to enhance the mechanic in line with the Peppa Pig 15th anniversary celebrations. With the support of eOne and other Peppa Pig licensees, we have a huge list of Peppa Pig gifts to win from now until Christmas 2019 and we’re excited to start seeing the winners redeeming their prizes.”

For more information and about the new 2019 Peppa Pig Collection contact Character Options on 0161 633 9800

newsanalysis

The revolution will not be televised Toy World spoke to Diaframma’s Duccio Abolaffio about the changing media landscape and what the Italian media production company has planned for 2019 How did the media landscape change in 2018?

The Media landscape changed considerably in 2018, especially the digital arena. We went from the unboxing frenzy to a more well-rounded execution of digital content on YouTube. We have noticed throughout the toy community - from the top toy manufactures right through to the smaller players - that YouTube content has really made a huge impact this year. It has played a greater role in driving sales, as it has the ability to reach a wider audience than some traditional media channels.

How did these changes affect toy companies and also your own organization?

Toy manufacturers and their media agencies need to pay close attention to this development. Digital content is no longer a second thought; it is now is one of the most important drivers of consumer demand. Traditional TV commercials will still be an effective and valuable tool for toy companies: TV-advertised toys reach a different audience, whilst giving retailers a sense of confidence that the items on their shelves will be promoted and seen by their customers. However, digital content allows for more creative measures to be adopted and new avenues to be explored when talking about a product.

Looking ahead to 2019, what are your plans for the coming year?

2019 will be a very interesting year for us. We are very excited to embrace the digital world, as well as maintaining growth in our core TV commercial business. As we enter 2019, we are already exploring ways of expanding our creative capabilities, pushing the limits with our offering and opening new doors for our clients. We aim to be a one-stop creative shop for all our customers’ needs.

What do you see as the big challenges for the companies involved in the media world this year?

The big challenges for toy companies this year will be to push the envelope a little more to attract the attention of new consumers and retain them. There is so much content out there, the big challenge is cutting through it all and really connect with children.

How can you help toy companies navigate the changing media landscape?

2019 is a new year for us. We are coming out of a previous engagement, ready to sink our teeth into a brighter and more adventurous future. We want to help our clients elevate their new products and really make a splash. We will be investing heavily in social media content production, hiring specialized teams to maximize the benefits coming from the production time that our customers book.

Toy World 24

Flair and Spirograph team up with space pioneer, Helen Sharman Flair has announced a collaboration with the first-ever British Astronaut, Helen Sharman CMG OBE. The campaign to find the Spirograph Artist of 2019 came about when Helen Sharman spoke at a BTHA open day mentioning how, as a child, Spirograph was her favourite toy.

Since that moment, the Flair team has been keen to include Helen in a project that would combine her memories of the toy with her onward career in Space.

From January until March, a competition will be launched for children to create a Night Sky or Space picture using the shapes and patterns created with Spirograph. After judging in April, the shortlisted entrants will be invited to a London presentation where the winner will be announced by Helen Sharman.

Verity Groom, marketing manager, GP Flair, commented: “Helen Sharman is a true inspiration as both a motivational speaker and a forerunner in her field. It is an honour to be working with her on this project. The theme of stars and Space has an obvious connection, but is also the perfect way to practise your Spirograph skills. It will be something that all children can create easily whatever their level, and we look forward to seeing the entries come through.”

Helen Sharman added: “In my work, I am very fortunate to meet many children and I always enjoy connecting with them, through the wonders of Space and science. Combining this with one of my own favourite childhood toys is a real pleasure.

I am very much looking forward to seeing the wonderful entries.”

Opinion

2018 - The year that TV died (again)?

Jonathan looks at whether TV campaigns are still hitting the mark, taking children’s changing media habits into account, and how to ensure marketing investment is maximising its potential.

B

eing in the midst of toy fair season, the industry can be forgiven for looking ahead to Christmas 2019 and beyond. From a media and marketing perspective however, it is important to take stock of 2018 results now that delivery data is fully reconciled and the all-important sales results are in. 2019 plans can, and should, then be adapted accordingly.

However, it is important that we frame these judgements in the correct context. 2018 was a challenging year at retail for toys and games, for a multitude of reasons which have been covered at length. Despite the various contributory factors though, there will likely be plenty of direct correlation between retail performance, and the decline of live TV viewing.

Reviewing the October-November 2018 period versus 2017 produces a negative picture of the continuing power of TV:

Sky Kids

Turner

ITV

Disney

In total, against the children 4-9 audience, the commercial children’s channels recorded a 20% year-on-year decline in commercial impacts during this period. It would be all too easy, therefore, to report that TV campaigns missed targets by the same percentage. Further analysis

of the numbers however shows that there were a significant number of channels in growth.

Tracking these changes in season, and optimising campaigns accordingly, would have allowed campaigns to not only beat the market average (-20%), but deliver in full in many cases.

As with most trading seasons, each sales house produced its own winners and losers. Turner would have been able to manage the decline of Boomerang through the success of Cartoon Network (albeit delivering across different target audiences). Similarly, the success of Milkshake would have mitigated (although not necessarily balanced out) the impact of Nick Jr’s decline.

However, the same cannot be said of Disney.

All three channels declined at a faster rate than the market average – this is even more interesting when you consider that all three have very different target audiences. Disney did not replicate the patterns seen across the wider TV market on boys and pre-school audiences, indicating an internal problem which Disney needs to resolve.

Potentially (although not exclusively), this is down to content, and access to it. In a multi-channel, multi-platform, multi-device landscape, children of all ages will gravitate to their favourite content (which arguably Disney is no longer producing).

Perhaps, however, it is more to do with access to Disney’s content, than opinions of its quality.

The vast majority of content on Disney channels is Disney owned and not available on other channels. If you review the strategies of the other sales houses, content exclusivity is clearly a lower priority. CITV and Nicktoons share Horrid Henry, for example, Cartoon Network and CITV share Ben 10 (amongst others), whilst Viacom has long made use of Milkshake to extend the reach of Nick Jr properties.

All of these partnerships extend the reach of the show, as they almost invariably include a freeto-air channel. Disney properties do not benefit

Toy World 26

Jonathan Chambers

Director of AV Investment, Generation Media.

Tel: 0207 307 7906 Jonathan.Chambers@generationmedia.co.uk

from free-to-air coverage, limiting exposure and in turn driving fewer viewers back to the parent channel(s). This has also been compounded by the removal of Disney content from Netflix (in anticipation of the launch of NewTV). Short term versions of Disney content are of course available on YouTube, but this has yet to translate back into live TV impacts.

Assuming that 2018 campaigns were optimised effectively, TV should still be very much alive in the eyes of toy marketers, albeit maybe suffering with a slight cold (or dare I say it – old age). In fact, more 4-9 year-olds watched TV than ever before in October 2018 – over 4.8 m (versus 4.75m in October 2017). The problem causing the long term decline in live TV impacts is the fact that, on average, each child aged 4-9 is spending less time with live TV (9hrs 5mins in 2018 vs. 10hrs 23mins in 2017).

This is reflective of children’s media habits, and also of how industry definitions have not kept pace with these changes. If we continue to define TV as simply live linear broadcast on the main set, then the negative spiral will continue. The reality is that TV in the eyes of a child (and older audiences) incorporates many more forms of video viewing. Therefore creating marketing plans that continue to play on the strengths of traditional TV (mass scale at speed), whilst incorporating other forms of commercial video (YouTube and Broadcaster VOD), is the key to success. Current industry measurement techniques have not kept pace with this change, making effective planning increasingly challenging. This is why we incorporate Giraffe Insight’s ‘Kids and the Screen’ research into media plans, to ensure we have the full picture of children’s viewing habits. Until BARB and its counterparts provide an adequate measurement system which covers children (which remains several years away), this will be the only way to ensure plans are maximising their potential and marketing investment.

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Licensing World Tomy announces Molang master toy renewal UK brand extension and strategy agency, Licensing Link Europe - which manages licensing for the Molang brand in the UK on behalf of worldwide licensor Millimages - has announced the renewal of Tomy’s master toy deal for the brand.

The three-year extension covers EMEA and Australia.

The renewal follows the successful launch of Molang on Tiny Pop, the free-to-air UK television channel for children. Ratings for the 15-minute show have been well above the channel average, positioning the show within Tiny Pop’s top 10.

Tomy, along with Blueprint Collections (the Molang stationery and gift licensee), participated in Christmas on-air and online campaigns on the Tiny Pop channel and website.

Sarah Muller, vice president, children’s and youth entertainment programming, Sony Pictures Television, commented: “Molang is a delightful series, so we’re really pleased with how it’s performed on the channel since its launch on 29th September.”

Molang first came to the world’s attention on the personal blog of Korean illustrator Hye-Ji Yoon, becoming popular through instant messaging apps. French studio Millimages then gave Molang his own TV show, which is strongly based on visual humour. Molang and his friends speak a language entirely of their own, and so have international appeal.

Ian Wickham, director of Licensing Link Europe, commented: “We are delighted that Tomy has come back for a further three years as our master toy partner, just as we have seen Molang take off on free to air TV here in the UK, with strong audience numbers.”

8th Wonder partners with BBC Studios for new licensed products Having launched a renewed licensing campaign for 2019, 8th Wonder is delighted to have teamed up with BBC Studios to develop a new wooden toy range based on popular UK childrens series Hey Duggee, Something Special and Sarah and Duck.

The range will include wooden vehicles, sound puzzles and dominoes amongst other products that will begin to roll out in spring 2019.

Julie Kekwick, senior licensing manager at BBC Studios, commented: “We are thrilled to be working with 8th Wonder for the first time. Their wonderful range of products will perfectly complement our existing Hey Duggee and Something Special ranges.”

8th Wonder is also extremely excited to bring the iconic Only Fools and Horses series to life with a range of talking plush in early 2019. It has worked closely with the licensing team at BBC Studios to create a series of characters such as Del Boy, Rodney and Uncle Albert, with phrases such as “Cushty”, “Lovely Jubbly” and “My name’s not Dave, it’s Rodney,” as well as other fondly remembered sayings.

Gary Tyrer, MD at 8th Wonder, commented: “Being one of the best comedy series of all time, we feel privileged to work with BBC Studios on this iconic range and to bring it to retail for the very first time.”

Julie Kekwick said that she was really impressed with the plush range that 8th Wonder has developed for Only Fools and Horses and added that, “fans of the unforgettable comedy series are going to be thrilled with the results.”

Further licensed products are under development and are expected to be launched for spring/summer 2019.

Wow! Stuff ends 2018 with Award for Innovation The company capped off a strong year of growth with the Warner Bros. Consumer Products UK and Ireland Award for Innovation.

Wow! Stuff’s team won the award in recognition of the innovation it brought to the Wizarding World franchise in 2018, Wow! Stuff’s first year of working on the brand which saw its launch at retail.

The Mystery Snitch has also been nominated as the Most Innovative Toy in the Toy of the Year category, known as the TOTYs, in the USA. The award was presented to Wow! Stuff by Rachel Wakley, WBCP’s general manager UK and Ireland.

Richard North, Wow! Stuff CEO, commented: “We are proud to be an innovator and to fly the flag for the UK and Ireland at the TOTYs in February 2019.”

Toy World 28

AN EAGLEMOSS PUBLICATION

COLLECTION

®

COLLECTION

COLLECTOR’S MAGAZINE WITH COLLECTIBLE S TATUE

THE SUPERSTAR...

TO THE TOP, WITH

STYLE From international acclaim to a historymaking championship run in WWE, AJ Styles is redefining what it means to be “phenomenal.”

B

Y THE TIME AJ Styles exploded out to the ring at the 2016 Royal Rumble, he was already a fan favorite, having earned his stripes through years in sports entertainment. For someone with such an impressive and accomplished resume, Styles was unable to watch WWE as a child.

His family didn’t have a lot of money and could not afford cable television. However, he was still a phenomenal athlete, playing multiple sports in high school. When some of his friends decided to join a wrestling school, Styles decided to give it a try as well. Little did anyone realize it, but WWE history was about to be written.

EARLY YEARS After a few years working in small promotions, AJ Styles had a career breakthrough when he signed with WCW to form the tag team “Air Raid” alongside Air Paris.

Unfortunately, not long after Styles’s debut, WCW went under. He has said that, while the folding of WCW and the subsequent setback to his career was

 HIGH-FLYING AJ Styles appeared on WCW Nitro as part of the tag team Air Raid.

disappointing at the time, it ended up being a positive thing, as it gave him the chance to better hone his craft.

Over the next several years, Styles appeared in a variety of promotions around the world, before entering the big time in 2016 when he joined WWE. THE FACE THAT RUNS THE PLACE On January 24, 2016, AJ Styles officially set foot in a WWE ring, entering the Royal Rumble Match at number three. He managed to last nearly a half-hour in the 30-man battle royal before being eliminated by Kevin Owens. This impressive showing, however, was only the beginning. Styles went on to battle Chris Jericho in a match at Fastlane that saw him emerge as the victor, and then formed a tag team with his former rival called Y2AJ. The partnership proved to be short-lived however, and Jericho and Styles clashed at WrestleMania in a bout that Styles ultimately lost.

Undeterred, Styles vied for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in matches against Roman Reigns at Payback and Extreme Rules and then reunited with his former Bullet Club partners Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson to form The Club. He then went after a returning John Cena, and faced off against him in a winning effort at Money in the Bank. Following Styles’s jump to SmackDown in July 2016, the two then faced off again

 MAKING AN IMPACT Styles formed rivalries with Jericho (above left) and Kevin Owens (above right).

 TAKING ON THE BIG DOG! AJ Styles takes on Roman Reigns at Extreme Rules 2016.

at SummerSlam, which saw Styles win again and subsequently dub himself the new face of WWE and refer to himself as “the face that runs the place.”

 WRESTLEMANIA 33 Having been temporarily fired from WWE, AJ Styles returned to face Shane McMahon at The Showcase of The Immortals.

MONEY IN THE BANK (2016) AJ’s rivalry with John Cena builds as he defeats Cena with help from The Club.

SUMMERSLAM (2016) AJ Styles defeats Cena in an epic match, that sees Styles declare himself “the face that runs this place” .

PAY-PER-VIEW HIGHLIGHTS

ROYAL RUMBLE (2016) AJ Styles returns to the WWE as the third entrance in the Royal Rumble – lasting close to 30 minutes.

TM & © 2019 WWE. All Rights Reserved.

FASTLANE (2016) Styles takes on Chris Jericho defeating Y2J via submission with the devastating Calf Crusher.

PAYBACK (2016) Ultimately defeated

by Roman Reigns, this event featured AJ’s first attempt to take the WWE Championship.

COLLECTOR’S MAGAZINE

1:16

WITH COLLECTIBLE STATUE

SCALE

For more information on stocking Hero Collector or for distribution opportunities in UK and ROW please contact GLYNNDAVIES@EAGLEMOSS.COM

FIGURINE COLLECTION TM TM

TM

PROFESSOR

DUMBLEDORE

TM

AT HIS LECTERN

AN OFFICIAL

COLLECTION YOUR MODEL

4

PROFESSOR DUMBLEDORE

TM

WORDS OF WARNING STANDING AT HIS CANDLE-LIT LECTERN to address the Great Hall, Professor Dumbledore makes a chilling announcement. Until Sirius Black is captured, Dementors will guard the gates of Hogwarts.

The HEADMASTER OF HOGWARTS announces the arrival of the Dementors of Azkaban.

1:16

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™ & © WBEI. (s19)

Take a piece of magic home with you!

For more information on stocking Hero Collector or for distribution opportunities in UK and ROW please contact GLYNNDAVIES@EAGLEMOSS.COM

Licensing World Panini unveils raft of new trading card games Panini has experienced success throughout 2018 in terms of licensed product, particularly in the Entertainment category where its L.O.L Surprise! Sticker Collection has exceeded all the company’s expectations. Next year will see the launch of the L.O.L Surprise! Trading Card Game, which launches in mid-January. Backed by a multi-channel marketing campaign including press and digital advertising, social media activation, sampling and a national newspaper campaign, plus investment at retail across key listings, Panini is confident that the collection will prove a success.

In January Panini will also be launching its Invizimals New Alliance Trading Card Game, licensed by Sony. The collection will see the return of the Invizimals with all-new cards and several new characters. The collection will be supported by TV advertising, a diverse digital programme of activity including YouTube pre-roll, sampling and a social media campaign.

In March 2019 Panini is due to launch its much-anticipated Harry Potter Contact Trading Card Game. Harry Potter remains a firm favourite amongst collectors and presents strong opportunities for retailers in the toy channel in particular. The trading card collection launch will be supported by a robust multi-channel marketing campaign with investment at retail as well.

Harry Potter arrives at London Gatwick London Gatwick has welcomed the Harry Potter Shop to its North Terminal.

Following the release of Warner Bros. Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, the opening of the new 614 square foot store offers a selection of items from across the Wizarding World.

Over 46m passengers travel through Gatwick each year, with the airport offering connections to over 220 destinations, including more than 60 long-haul routes.

From gifts to clothing, souvenirs to collectibles, Gatwick’s latest addition will offer a unique experience for the airport’s global passenger mix. Fans can purchase a personalised Hogwarts acceptance letter, mystery flying Snitch or their favourite character’s wand.

Jonathan Sands, of the Harry Potter Shop, commented: “We are so proud to open the newest of our official Harry Potter Shops at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal. Our aim is to create a unique shopping experience, offering the best of what the Wizarding World has to offer.”

newsanalysis

That’s another story MTW Toys is gearing up for a positive reception to its new Toy Story 4 range. With the fourth instalment in the hugely successful franchise set for release on 21st June, nine years after Toy Story 3 aired, Toy World caught up with Geoff Sheffield, VP sales UK & Ireland, to find out more about the range, and where the new products can be viewed.

“We can’t go into too much detail about the full product line-up at this stage, although Thinkway always produces an innovative range of products to coincide with new Toy Story movie releases, and Toy Story 4 will be no exception,” Geoff explains. “To view the new range in all its glory, retailers can visit our showroom in Hong Kong and our stands in London or Nuremberg. The Thinkway 12” movie line is undoubtedly the most authentic range for the true Toy Story fan and it will fly off the shelves in 2019.”

He added: “MTW has driven some amazing targeted marketing support throughout 2018 and this has paid dividends to those retailers which have been stocking the range in the run-up to the movie year, when we expect sales to increase substantially. We will be working on more high-profile marketing initiatives in 2019 to drive sales before, during and after the launch of the new movie.”

While the plot of the fourth movie is still very much under wraps, Disney Pixar has offered some insight, stating: “Woody has always been confident about his place in the world and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that's Andy or Bonnie. But when Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called Forky to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.”

The film will feature returning cast members including Annie Potts and Joan Cusack reprising their respective roles from previous films as Bo Peep and Jessie. New additions include Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele and and Keanu Reeves.

Toy World 30

New toys dropping in 2019!

For sales contact: UKsales@jazwares.com

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Copyright Š 2018 Jazwares, LLC. All rights reserved. Š 2018 Epic Games, Inc. Fortnite and its logo are registered trademarks of Epic Games, Inc. in the USA (Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.) and elsewhere. All rights reserved.

NPD Insight

2018 - A Year in Review

Rory looks at how the toy industry has fared in 2018, looking back to see how it compared with the recent past, examining highlights and looking forward to what 2019 will bring.

W

e are nearing the end of 2018, with only two weeks to go at the time of writing of this article.

I’ve heard many things said about this year but I think we can all agree that it certainly hasn’t been dull!

Out of interest, I had a look back at the NPD article in December last year, to reflect on how this year compares. At this stage in 2017, we were commenting on a strong year for collectibles; a great showing from pre-school licences; a growing games category and some solid growth for our largest licensed properties, tempered with a relatively weak peak season and suffering by comparison with a record breaking 2016. Where this year differs is obviously the loss of Toys R Us and the significant impact this will have on the UK toy market. However, there definitely isn’t quite the same number of highlights to comment upon either. That said, there are still some positive messages and strong performances as we move into 2019.

According to November data, the UK toy market is down -12% in value vs. last year, and the weeks we have seen so far in December means that the full year trend will likely end up around the same number. This includes Toys R Us in the 2017 value, but the adjusted figure (removing TRU from the data from this and last year) the market is flat vs. 2017, though it is worth noting that even the adjusted number is down -7% for the month of November. This suggests December could be

quite tough too, though we could hold out hope that consumers are leaving it late in the hunt for bargains.

Even in a very tough climate, there have been some very positive trends to highlight in 2018; the clear winner of the year is L.O.L Surprise!, which at the time of writing had a total value of nearly £87m, a huge figure with three weeks of data still to be added. This is even more impressive when you consider the size of the range for the property; although it has expanded this year, the number of items available is still relatively small for a No.1 property, with just under six different items available in stores selling the brand in the latest month. If you look at the No.1 property for the same month in previous years, the number of items available per store is usually around 20-30.

L.O.L Surprise! is performing strongly with a range that’s around a quarter of the usual size of a top performer. It will be very interesting to see what the brand will do in 2019.

The collectibles trend as a whole has continued to grow in 2018. Collectibles accounts for nearly 15% of all toys value this year and the category is growing at +32% in value. However, it’s when you look at the volume share that the size of the collectibles market is truly revealed, with 27% of all toys volume now considered a collectible; that equates to a quarter of all toys bought in 2018. Properties that have contributed to the success of the collectibles category in 2018 include World Soccer, with stickers being helped by

UK Top Toy Properties 2018

Value Gain £m

£79 £34

Star Wars

£33

Marvel Universe

Playset Dolls & Collectibles Miscellaneous Toys

£24

Nerf

£24

LEGO Star Wars 20

£1

Brainteasers

£1

Adult Puzzles

£1

Scientific Toys 40

60

80

100

£1 0

Top 10 value (£m) 1

10

20

30

40

Value Gain (£m)

Source: The NPD Group | Retail Tracking Service | UK | YTD Nov-18

DocumentThe classification: Client/Third Party Confidential NPD Group, Inc. | Proprietary and confidential

£1

Bubble Toys/Solution

£22 0

£3

Card Games

£26

World Soccer

£6 £4

Pools

£27

Little Tikes

£14

Robotic/Interact Playmates

£29

VTech Baby

£38

Non-Strat Trade Cards/Collectible Stickers

£30

LEGO City

England’s run in the World Cup, squishy brands such as Soft N Slo and Smooshy Mushy and also Funko Pop! Poopsie has been the hit of the last few months, combining a number of key trends in a single product. It does seem that collectibles will remain a core part of the market next year, with more launches feeding into the trend.

Making predictions for 2019 is a risky business but I think it’s safe to say that the trend for next year will an improvement on this year, and we should see more positive stories to report. One thing that has definitely caught our eye in the latest week of data is Fortnite sales for the first week of December. With five items in the top 50 for the the total market, it has been a great start in toys for the property. Fortnite will definitely be one to watch in 2019, and is hopefully just one of many strong lines. We should be looking at a huge year for movie lines too, with a number of big movies in 2019 including The Lego Movie 2, Avengers: End Game, Toy Story 4, Frozen 2 and Star Wars Episode 9 all set for release. So, as 2018 draws to a close, let’s look forward to a very promising 2019 in the UK toy market.

Top Gaining Subclasses

L.O.L. Surprise!

Paw Patrol

Rory Partis

Director UK Toys & EuroToys NPD

DocumentThe classification: Client/Third Party Confidential NPD Group, Inc. | Proprietary and confidential

Toy World 32

Source: NPD EPoS Retail Tracking/ UK YTD Nov 2018

Top Gaining Subclasses Playset Dolls continues to be the top performing subclass in the UK toy market due to the success of L.O.L Surprise!, which has £79m in value sales so far this year. Non-strategic Trading Cards/Stickers is the second best performer, driven by a strong summer with the World Cup having an impact. Brainteasers and Adult Puzzles are also appearing in the top 10 for value gain, showing the strength of Games & Puzzles at the end of the year.

The NPD Group provides global information and advisory services to drive better business decisions. By combining unique data assets with unmatched industry expertise, we help our clients track their markets, understand consumers and drive profitable growth. Sectors covered include automotive, beauty, entertainment, fashion, food/food service, home, office supplies, sports, technology, toys, video games, and wireless.

To monitor what’s happening in the ever-changing toy market, NPD collects pointof-sale information from all major toy retailers. This information, combined with our analysts’ industry perspectives, delivers a comprehensive view of what’s selling and where. We also field over 12m consumer surveys annually to help industry leaders understand why consumers shop where they shop and why they buy what they buy.

For more information visit www.npd.com. Follow NPD on Twitter @npdgroup

Total Items

Oct 2017 Rank

Nov 2017 Rank

Fortnite

#783

#53

Property Progression: Fortnite has been one of the most talked about licences this year and has now made the jump into toys with over £1m in sales for the month of November. Most of this value in November has come from the Monopoly Fortnite Edition from Hasbro, but with the Jazwares Fortnite Action Figure range being launched in December, we can expect to see a strong month for the licence.

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Positive prospects This month, as the industry celebrates its retailers, Toy World spoke to independents about how 2018 has been for them, what has sold well and their plans for Toy Fair and 2019.

Dave Tree - All The Cool Stuff, Fordingbridge We opened on the edge of the New Forest in Hampshire in 2009, and celebrated our 9th anniversary last year. Being a huge toy fan and self-confessed geek, owning my own toys and collectibles store means I’m really living the dream. We’re a small shop with huge heart, and because we’re in the middle of the Bournemouth, Salisbury and Southampton triangle, we work incredibly hard at a local level to encourage customers to choose us over big-name retailers. We host craft fairs, toy fairs and festive markets, and in recognition of this we were honoured with the award for Biggest Contribution to the New Forest Community in 2017

by Hampshire County Council and the New Forest Business Partnership. We’re trying to think beyond our own business; these events benefit everyone in the town, and elements of fundraising are often involved too.

Last year, we put on 15 events in total. Our Star Wars event is held three times a year; the Saturday is a very family friendly day with carnival games and fundraising, while the Sunday is focused on products from the 70s and 80s to attract collectors.

It would be nice to be the default first-choice destination, but the modern retail scene just doesn’t work like that nowadays. Being a toy store, we are

this kicks in with any product over £30. At £15 and under, impulse kicks in and no one queries the price, but the more expensive an item gets, the more likely they are to believe it’ll be cheaper elsewhere. I’ve noticed that while an adult wouldn’t think twice about paying £3.50 for a coffee, they’re very quick to balk if their child to wants to spend £4 on a pack of trading cards. Parents don’t necessarily appreciate what’s gone into making that product; similarly, it doesn’t always occur to them that the amount of entertainment offered actually means it’s a bargain.

sometimes a low priority in how customers spend their money, but such events do convert into sales.

Nobody likes to be guilt tripped with the whole ‘shop local/use it or lose it’ approach either; you have to give consumers a good reason to come and visit you.

There’s a common misconception that being an indie means you’ll be more expensive, but this simply isn’t true. Thanks to smart phones, anyone can look up prices on the internet, and I find that

Toy World 35

Our particular business is at the mercy of trends and fads, but, as long as you’re watching what’s going on, being independent means you can get on things quickly. Over the years we’ve noticed a particular pattern; spring sees a boom in demand for things that are new, whereas consumers fall back to tried-and-tested toys in autumn. For example, we saw all things squishy and slimy flying off the shelves in the early part of last year, whereas in autumn - the Back to School period - kids were buying Pokémon cards, yo-yos and diabolos. Aside from L.O.L. Surprise!, there wasn’t a runaway success for us in 2018, though we did have some generally strong performers. Lego is often driven

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Talking Shop by tie-ins, and while Star Wars and Marvel haven’t really pushed things for it this year, Harry Potter has; it’s the most requested Lego range here. The addition of minifigures, with the collectible pocket money element, has created a lot of demand and has really boosted the range.

While I understand the challenges that the closure of Toys R Us has presented, I can’t fathom why some major toy companies are closing out brand new stock to discount retailers. As someone paying top whack for these ranges, seeing them being sold at a fraction of the price mere weeks later is galling. I get that it works for manufacturers looking to get a large quantity sold, but long term it’s going to backfire. To me, this is more of a threat to retail than the online sector. People will always assume that the internet may be cheaper, but when you’re physically in these stores, being confronted with products at rock-bottom prices all the time, I think it’s far more harmful to that product, brand or company than doing the occasional cheap selloff online. Historically, the big chains that indies were up against were never devaluing toys, but the migration to discount poses a very different – and very real – threat.

The loss of Toys R Us has also reduced the visibility of certain products and ranges, and this

leads to a contraction in the choice and availability of toys. When Toys R Us went, I’d like to have seen the big orders that it could no longer honour being split between existing independent accounts, and loyal independent stockists being rewarded with a discount for once. That way, the indie customer base would get good stock which offered higher margins. Instead, those orders were picked up by one or two big discount chains and closed out at very low prices. When people say there is fatigue for a property, it’s not always because people are tired of it – they just don’t see the value of paying the RRP because it’s far cheaper elsewhere.

Christmas was pretty flat for us. Our sales don’t pick up until the last two weeks of December, when people decide it’s simply not worth the hassle of battling Christmas traffic in the city centres. We accept where we fit into people’s rationale. As a result, our Christmas sales year after year are pretty much static. Harry Potter and Wizarding World products performed well, with the new Fantastic Beasts film having been released shortly before Christmas, but the standout licence was Fortnite.

After Lego, Ty is our biggest brand. We sell loads of Beanie Boo plush, and situated where we are, on the edge of the New Forest, seasonal tourism leads to high sales in animals like squirrels and donkeys.

The new sequin Flippables range was huge at Christmas; we sold both the product sizes, and the novelty and collectible elements of the range really drove demand. Customers loved our big festive window display of Flippables, and it translated into good sales.

We have slightly diversified over the past couple of years to incorporate an element of gifting.

Certain age groups aren’t into toys so much, but they are into products associated with franchises, especially video games like Fortnite and Minecraft.

Pop! Vinyl from Funko is a great example of this; they aren’t toys, but kids are buying them. Pyramid International likewise offers a strong range of licensed mugs and stationery, among other things.

These products have become the gifts of choice for the older child; the parent or grandparent knows they play the game, and that while they might not want a toy, they’ll appreciate something like a licensed mug. Pop culture is a growing area; I sell just as much to adults as I do to kids, and some of that is down to changing perception. The toy industry is contracting all the time, and I believe pop culture is an area of huge growth. I’ve had to adapt by repositioning with a strong gift offering; as a retailer, you have to be willing to change with the times.

Maurice Doyle - Banba Toymaster, Dublin Looking back over the whole of 2018, business was fairly good. We started off with a slow month in January, but that allowed us time to gather our thoughts, do a stock check and prepare for the London Toy Fair. It’s often a bit slow just after Christmas, as people are paying off December credit card bills. Things started to pick up gradually as we moved into spring; we were lucky to get hold of a lot of L.O.L! Surprise stock early on, which sold through really well. Considering that we’re next door to a substantial Smyths store, we held our own well. As an independent, we can react a lot quicker to trends - Pokémon cards, Lego Minifigures, that sort of thing - and we keep our finger on the pulse so that we can do that.

Towards May, we start really looking forward to the Toymaster show, where we put down a lot of our orders for Christmas. We also support the Toymaster catalogue 100%. We take in 200,000 catalogues and have them distributed in our area, so we generally try to get our hands on everything

Toy World 36

that’s listed. When customers start ringing to place an order, we need to make sure we have everything they might want.

We had a great summer weather-wise, but this doesn’t help sales in the city centre; people go to the beach or out to the countryside instead. We prefer dry, overcast summers to get people into town and doing some shopping. We benefit from of a lot of the tourist footfall that comes into Dublin though and, as the years go by, footfall is increasing. The tourist season is starting earlier in the year and ending later too, with city breaks becoming ever-more popular.

We’ve been nominated for Independent Toy Retailer of the Year, which means a huge amount not only to me but to the staff as well. A lot of our staff have been with us for over 10 years, and they put in a huge amount of work to create a fantastic atmosphere in the shop. When they found out we were entering, and when we filled in the application and took pictures to go with it, everyone was really excited. Being announced as a finalist gives them

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Talking Shop huge pride in the work they are doing, and this naturally transfers to the way they interact with our customers too; I often hear the staff proudly telling the customers about our nomination. Clearly it means a lot to us all, so fingers crossed.

We’ll be going to London Toy Fair this month, which gives us a chance to see the new products that are launching for 2019, as well as what’s been discontinued; if you’re sitting on a certain amount of stock, Toy Fair can give you the nudge you need to call it a day and get rid of it. We don’t put down a lot of figures at the show, preferring instead to work out what will suit us before returning home to decide which ranges we’re going to carry. It’s nice to see that Lego will be back at the show this year.

Being a Toymaster member gives us a lot of support; there is always someone at the end of the phone if you have questions or need help. A lot of the Irish Toymaster members will travel over for the May show, so it’s a great time to sit down and chat with them; to find out what their own challenges

are, or which lines are performing really well.

We’ve had people join Toymaster from other retail environments where dealings are a bit ‘cloak and dagger’, but Toymaster isn’t like that at all. People are willing to share their problems as well as their highlights. The central invoicing system is also a big draw, as are the twice-yearly FOB shows. These can help you pick up a little extra margin on products that you wouldn’t get on the main lines.

We always aim to get our hands on the new Q1 Lego ranges. Lego sells really well for us and we usually run out of a lot of lines before Christmas.

We therefore go in quite hard on new launches appearing from Boxing Day onwards. Our Q1 Toymaster window will feature Hatchimals Mermals, Sylvanian Families and Moshi Monsters from Flair, although we might be late getting hold of the latter. The window displays are another benefit of being a Toymaster member; it pays to get on board with these windows, bring the stock in and push it with those displays.

Looking forward to 2019, it seems Brexit is on everybody’s mind. It’s a difficult one, as we don’t know which way it is going to go, and the effect it will have on imports and VAT. We just have to keep our ear to the ground and wait.

We are celebrating our 75th anniversary this year, having opened on the 21st April 1944. We pride ourselves on being professional, we like to think we know the trade, and we have a good relationship with our agents and suppliers. We’re not a small shop, with just over 10,000 sq. feet across two floors, but we aren’t going to become too big for our boots.

As I mentioned earlier, we have a huge Smyths right next door and so we are careful to differentiate our ranges as much as possible so that we aren’t directly competing. We carry a huge range of jigsaws and model kits, including Airfix, Revell, Hasegawa, Kamiya, and we also offer a very wide range of Playmobil. Focusing on what we’re good at is what keeps the customers coming back.

Mark Stewart - Wise Owl Toys, Worcester Our most popular ranges this year have included Playmobil, Magformers, Orchard Games and Schleich. Overall, for 2018, the most popular product category for us was games – I think it has enjoyed a resurgence because parents are starting to realise that being stuck in front of a computer isn’t that sociable. More and more Board Game Clubs are opening around the country, as people are starting to realise that playing games is a really sociable activity. We helped to open one here called Wobog, which is Worcester Board Gamers, which has proved popular. Board games can also be educational; especially with young children, if you can make learning fun without them realising it, that’s half the battle.

We have enjoyed continued success with Dobble

by Asmodee and have reported the strongest sales in the whole country for three years running, outselling even Hamleys, Harrods and WHSmith.

Esdevium, as Asmodee used to be known, originally ran a competition where independents with sales of over 100 Dobble in a year would receive a credit of £1 for each game. We sold over 1000 - so we’re the Dobble capital of the country!

We see great sales from other Asmodee games, including Ticket to Ride, Diamants from Coiled Spring, King Domino, Code Names, Forbidden Island Forbidden Desert, Battle Sheep and Super Farmer. We have also found the lateral thinking IQ puzzles from Smart Toys and Games to be popular with our customers.

We will be going to the London Toy Fair this year, and we will be on the hunt for new products. It’s really interesting to meet the suppliers, and we’re looking for new introductions within the ranges that we already stock. We have already placed an order with Schleich so we are ahead of the game.

Looking at 2019, if I am being honest, I am concerned about how retail will shape up. With consumers using the internet more and more, the

high street is losing so many independent shops.

However, independents provide a service which allows customers to look at toys and play with them, to engage with them before they buy, and we need to focus on that. If the general public don’t use small shops then they will lose them, because as costs are going up and sales are going down, something’s got to give. Customers tell us that they hope we keep going and how much they love the shop, so there is obviously a demand. I think it would be really sad if we lost more independent shops.

I love what I’m doing and it’s going very well, but of course I’m concerned about the shift towards online shopping. We do have a website for our LeftHanded Shop side of the business, but we will keep our retail premises going, because we enjoy giving a service, and we enjoy selling good-quality toys that will actually make a difference to a child. I was truly

Toy World 38

heartened when we were short-listed as one of four best independent shops in the country, in the Indie Best Small Shops Awards.

We had an idea for a campaign called Green Friday, which came about in the run-up to the Black Friday sales this year. There’s a lot of hype about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so we thought it might be interesting to take a different perspective; encouraging consumers to look at toys that are environmentally friendly, or made of recycled goods, or anything that’s ‘green’. Many of our customers thought it was a good idea, but I don’t know if the toy industry is geared up for it yet or if it would work on a large scale. There are companies out there who focus on environmentally-friendly products and products made from materials like bamboo, as well as recyclable games. We spoke on our local radio station, BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester, about the idea, but we haven’t received much feedback from it yet, so for anyone who is reading this and is interested or would like to know more, please get in touch.

We spoke to many of our customers about the idea at our Christmas Fayre, and it was very well received. We do get people who prefer wooden toys and are concerned about how much plastic is in the ocean, so if we can start a movement to be a little more considerate about our planet, it can only be a good thing.

It needn’t be Black Friday, it could be any time of the year, to try and make consumers and manufacturers think a little bit more about what they buy and what they make. If we can at least get people talking about it, we could work with suppliers to offer promotions or discounts on these kinds of products. I’m sure that it would generate a lot of publicity for both the suppliers and the retailers, and it would benefit suppliers, manufactures, consumers and our planet.

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indie viewpoint Tracey May Clarke - Toyland, Blackpool Our standout Christmas line has been L.O.L dolls, but hasn't it been everybody's, thanks to the amazing marketing drive of Isaac Larian? Although it is mostly girls that are interested in the line, we have had boys buying into the range too, because they enjoy the unboxing videos just as much. I think if the range had been packaged more neutrally, it might have sold even more.

The Sock Game has been popular, thanks to Philip Schofield's How to Spend It Well At Christmas programme at the beginning of December. Our front bay is a huge display with a large cut-out of Philip Schofield and all of the toy products featured in the programme, but The Sock Game is the one that has been asked for the most. I think people trust Philip Schofield, because he shows viewers exactly how the toys and games work and gives an honest opinion.

After a great summer, with many events taking place in Blackpool that brought extra tourists and footfall to our shopping areas, major roadworks and bad December weather hasn’t helped local SMEs this winter. Toyland is still smiling into 2019, though, thanks to marketing campaigns that showed we are affordable, local and thinking outside the box. We have not paid for any advertising or marketing; instead we have used social media, posting videos and updates on Facebook. We regularly engage with customers online; we have chosen different local topics to talk about, and we find that this has kept sales going and provided a lot of interaction.

We offer a lot of work placements here, and I received a Leisure and Retail Manager of the Year Award for my work within the local community, along with my awesome branch team. We have offered free Spanish lessons for local kids and free training for young people with learning difficulties or who simply have no qualifications and can't get a job. We give interview training to local students to prepare them for working life.

One of the Q1 lines which we are most excited about is L.O.L Surprise!

Hairgoals. For the range to now be on Series 5, and still be as successful as it is, is pretty impressive. We are also excited about the new Dumbo ranges, which will be released next year when the film premieres.

I think it’s crucial for independent toy retailers to offer a high quality in-store experience, which hopefully gives customers an incentive to visit us rather than opting for the convenience but coldness of online shopping.

We have taken the decision to drop our online store, and are now bricks and mortar only.

It is also important to tap into the local community. Upstairs in our store, we offer an activity table and a play area, which is really popular and also provides somewhere for people on work placements to help out. This allows kids to get involved and try out toys, and we also offer a messy area, so kids can play without parents having to clean up after. Providing things like this for our customers is where we have an advantage as a bricks and mortar store; online simply can’t offer hands-on opportunities like this.

I’m excited to keep promoting the business next year, so that more customers hear about us. We are keen to publicise our Christmas Club Campaign 2019, as well as the free winter activity weekends we have planned. One thing we are particularly looking forward to is working alongside The Grand, Blackpool, a local theatre which is partnering with us on contra deals to cover marketing costs for SMEs. I also can't wait for Toy Story 4 to be launched and the new Dumbo movie; they both look fantastic and I’m sure will generate sales. Our boss will be attending Nuremberg Toy Fair, which is something I would like to do one day, but as I am the store branch manager, I am needed here.

Mark Buschhaus and Stephen Barnes Toy Barnhaus

Let's start the New Year right As we write this, we are in the final countdown of the week before Christmas. It is fair to say it has been an eventful Christmas on the high street, and looking at NPD figures, a tough one in general for the toy market. We found that November was a bit flat, and Black Friday certainly lagged behind last year. However, we think that one of the biggest factors in the slower Black Friday sales was the timing. Most people had not been paid by that stage in the month, and it certainly affected footfall and spend in our stores over the Black Friday weekend. Next year, it will drop back by a week, and that should help. However, we did find that the following payday weekend picked up a lot of the business that we had dropped. Since then, December has been a lot more positive, and we are on track to hit our targets for the month.

During peak Christmas trading, one thing that helps is keeping our bestsellers in stock at all times. Last year, we had run out of L.O.L. dolls by December, while this year we have had good stock throughout. When stock arrived in September and October, we were thinking “how much L.O.L. have we got?!” However, to do well in this business, you have to be bold. Based on the quantities we were selling, we predicted what we would need, and those stock levels have certainly helped. Along with L.O.L Surprise!, Harry Potter has been even bigger than we thought. Lego has also been phenomenal, and keeping that in stock has been a massive sales driver. Outside of that, Squeezamals has been hugely popular, along with a lot of our sales lines. Also, believe it not, some of our bestselling pick-up lines on the tills have been Loom Bands and fidget spinners. Now selling at a discounted price, but great stocking fillers nonetheless.

After a short break in the New Year, Toy Fair season will be upon us again.

As retailers, it is great to have something to look forward to in January. After the madness of December, it can feel flat in January when everyone has gone back to work, so to have the biggest trade event of the year to plan for gives us a great lift. With around 300 suppliers to see, it is a great time to catch up with everyone and also build new business relationships. We’re really pleased to see Lego back this year too. We take all our store managers up to the show for a day each, as it gives them a feel for the new products arriving in the coming months and really helps to keep them motivated and involved in the business.

One of our managers says it is their favourite event of the year. It is important to us to see all our key suppliers, and also try and pick out new ranges for the coming year. We book a lot of appointments, but also allow ourselves time to walk around and see what we can find that is new or a bit different. It is a good chance to catch up with other retailers after Christmas too, to swap experiences and review how things went.

Happy New Year to all. Here’s hoping it all came out well for 2018, and that 2019 starts on a positive note.

Toy World 40

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Toymaster

Don’t just survive, thrive!

With only six months in the newly created role of Toymaster retail manager under his belt, Brian McLaughlin is adopting a ‘boots on the ground’ approach to engaging with the buying group’s Members and potential new Members. As the busy show season approaches, Toy World editor Rachael Simpson-Jones caught up with Brian to find out how he is settling in at the group, and what new Members can expect when they join up. there to do is dictate; it’s their store at the end of the day and while I can offer hints and tips, that retailer can ultimately make their own decisions.

The response from our Members to this flexible approach has been overwhelmingly positive.

Secondly, I’m here to recruit new Members by letting existing toy retailers know who we are and what we can do to support them. Toymaster is here to help toy retailers in the UK & Ireland not just survive, but thrive. There is a place for independent retailers within the market, but we also know that it’s tough out there. We can help.

The role of retail manager is a new one for Toymaster – how are you finding it so far?

I joined Toymaster in July, with the focus on two key elements. Firstly, to help our Members trade more profitably. It’s a very broad brief, and one that is adopted by every member of the Toymaster team. I’m supporting our Members by visiting them in the retail space and seeing first-hand what their needs are, rather than simply calling them up from the comfort of my office. When you’re actually with someone, physically stood in their store, it’s far easier to offer advice on subjects like changing the layout and who to speak to for extra POS, or give them suggestions on what to range. What I am not

suppliers and retailers, what works and what doesn’t, and the toy ranges stores should be stocking. While I was buying, we learned to be critical of our own ranges. Speaking to store managers to understand better what worked for them taught me to look at what I was doing, as well as what could be done differently, and to flex to suit. The big difference with Toymaster is that no two stores are alike, and there is no silver bullet approach to solving challenges. However, all that knowledge from Mothercare and Toys R Us has come with me to this role and can hopefully be beneficial to the Toymaster Members I’m working with.

You’ve come from a background buying for some big names. How has this transferred over into your new role?

As a former employee, what are your thoughts on the Toys R Us situation?

I’ve been working in the toy industry for nearly 20 years now, most recently at Mothercare and Toys R Us before that. This role is very different in that it’s much more retail-facing, which requires a certain level of adaptability. It’s a really interesting challenge on a personal level. One thing that’s really struck me over the past six months is that every single retailer we work with is unique - I’ll admit I didn’t fully appreciate this before joining Toymaster. I was used to seeing big stores, centrally planned and laid out, but in my first weeks here I was visiting post offices with small toy sections, independent chains with five or six locations, hobby and model specialists, department stores and, of course, garden centres.

Toymaster is open to all bricks & mortar toy retailers, and we are happy to speak with anyone looking to sell toys year-round.

My previous roles have left me with a deep understanding of where the strengths lie for

Indies are close to their local communities, which is one thing nationals can’t be. Our Members know their customers, they know their names and how many children they’ve got. Combine this with involvement in the local community and there is huge opportunity to pick up the Toys R Us business. We’re seeing a similar situation with Argos moving out of towns and going into Sainsburys via concessions. That scheme is in its infancy, but we can certainly expect to see this increase, and the opportunities along with it. But while competitors might move out of town, there are others moving in – some of the bigger toy stores are quite aggressive with new store openings. The message we emphasise is to be local and proactive in the community, as this is where independents can really set themselves apart from multiples, particularly through social media as we can react quicker than our competitors. Indies can also react far quicker

Toy World 42

N HO N SEE UR N E O EM G W U BU KO PR R E RG N OD XC G U TO , L C ITIN Y ON TS G FA D AT IR ON S 20 & 19

THUMB ACCELERATOR CONTROL

ON/OFF SWITCH & CHRGE PORT

LED WHEELS

REAR BRAKE

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT HANDLEBARS

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Special Feature to emerging trends and customer requests, and being close enough to your customer base to get ahead on these tipoffs is key.

Has there been much fluctuation in Toymaster membership over the past 12 months?

We had a lot of enquiries early this year, the majority of which were drop-ins at Toy Fair.

Broadly speaking, the number of Members hasn’t changed – we have over 150 – but the number of stores has increased to 260. Some new Members have joined, and some have left for various reasons including closure and retirement. We have no targets for membership. The target is simply to recruit the right retailers for our group – those that will benefit from working with us but are strong Members in their own right.

What would you tell those retailers who are aware of Toymaster, but not yet a member?

I cannot stress enough that all our Members retain total independence and autonomy over all buying, ranging and marketing decisions for their own store. This includes identity and branding; Members are not required to put Toymaster branding on the front of their store unless they choose to. Some of our Members have spent years promoting their own store brand within their local community. Everything we do is optional,

Toymaster

and Members can pick and choose which elements they want to take advantage of. We also have two types of membership, Associated and Branded, where the Associate option allows you to gain the benefits without having to brand your store.

We believe that associating with the Toymaster brand adds value to an independent toy retailer, but ultimately our Members choose to do what they believe is right for their own business, and we respect that. They still get all the other benefits of membership that we offer. We have an online central invoicing system which saves our Members a lot of time. We offer a very strong window display programme throughout the year, and although it’s available to all Members, it’s not compulsory. Retailers can take displays up as and when they want to – if a window display focuses on a range they don’t stock, they can just skip it.

We have an FOB programme with twice-yearly regional meetings where members can take advantage of buying products with extra margin, and the close-knit Toymaster community, including our online members’ portal, is a huge bonus. Members can use this to ask anything, from whether a range is worth stocking to the best EPOS system to have, it’s a very friendly and supportive environment to be a part of. We try to get our Members to network, for instance at our regional meetings we invite them to our ‘It’s Good to Talk’ evenings. For £10 they get dinner,

Toymaster is a mutuality, a non-profit making organisation, which is wholly owned by its members, and every new member by definition also becomes a shareholder.

accommodation and an opportunity to catch up with each other.

What do your shows offer both members and non-members?

Our May show in is open to all bricks & mortar toy independents, regardless of whether or not they are Toymaster Members, and it’s where the main bulk of business is done for many of them.

All the key suppliers exhibit, and most offer deals and promotions specifically for that show which are available to all indies attending.

My main aim at the show will be to catch up with our existing Members; to find out how they are, how they’re trading and how things are in general. I also want to meet non-members so I can understand their reasons for attending, and whether they could benefit from membership of Toymaster. I’ll be setting up meetings in advance, but I also know what trade shows are like, so I’ll be very happy to speak with people on a flexible basis throughout the whole event. The whole Toymaster team will be available, so there will always be someone to help answer any queries.

Toymaster will also be at London Toy Fair, with the unmissable Toymaster lounge in the London Room - right at the front as you walk in. If anyone wants to speak to us over those three days, they can get in contact beforehand to arrange to meet, or they need only come and find us and say hello – we will have a cup of tea or coffee ready!

The benefits

- Access to over 200 toy suppliers.

This includes all of the major toy brands.

85% of suppliers offer Toymaster members end of month + three month payment terms.

This also includes exclusive offers and deals.

- Marketing your business.

Toymaster offers a year-round marketing campaign, including catalogues and exclusive window features.

This also includes help and advice on how to run social media campaigns for local communities.

- Central invoicing and central payment.

All Toymaster payments are available on a private, secure web area.

Payments are made to Toymaster for invoices due every month. Toymaster then pays the supplier on the member’s behalf.

- It’s good to talk.

The Toymaster membership with over 150 members (running 250 shops in the UK and ROI) make the most of networking and communication with fellow like-minded toy retailers.

- Communication.

Toymaster will send you up-to-date information regarding the toy trade, top 100 toy sellers, toy trends, and more.

Toymaster will also help with in-store theatre and merchandising.

There is also friendly and helpful staff on hand to help at all times.

- Trade shows.

Toy Fair Olympia – Members can take advantage of its room, only available for Toymaster members.

Regional Meetings – exclusive FOB programme to help with retailer’s margin mix.

May Show – Members can take advantage of Toymaster offers from over 100 suppliers and network in the toy trade.

For more information on how to become a member please contact: Brian McLaughlin - Brian.McLaughlin@toymaster.co.uk Paul Reader - Paul.Reader@toymaster.co.uk • Yogi Parmar - Yogi.Parmar@toymaster.co.uk • www.toymaster.co.uk/become-a-member/

Tel: 01604 674 477

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N HO N SEE UR N E O EM G W U BU KO PR R E RG N OD XC G U TO , L C ITIN Y ON TS G FA D AT IR ON S 20 & 19

Learn More / Request a Catalogue • Tel: 01626 835400 www.wiltonbradley.co.uk • Email: sales@wiltonbradley.co.uk

Special Feature

Amazon

in its Prime

Edge by Ascential provides accurate and actionable data, insights and advisory solutions for global brands and retailers operating in ecommerce. Sharing the latest sales data for the toy category on Amazon.co.uk, Edge reveals the trends driving Amazon UK’s toy business, and the impact this has had on the company’s performance. effort to reduce screen time for their children and encourage more active play and social activities, while at the same time they are nostalgic for the classic toys they remember from their childhoods.

Lego has benefited from both trends, producing 14 of the 50 bestselling toys on Amazon.co.uk during Q3. These bestsellers included two retro Lego Classic Creative Brick Box sets, the simple block sets we remember from our childhoods, with no digital components or pre-set designs.

This type of construction set puts a child's imagination at the centre of play and fosters creativity, problem solving and design skills.

The popularity of this type of toy among parents and children alike has helped make Construction the largest toy category on Amazon.co.uk.

S

ince Toys R Us announced the closure of all 100 UK locations in March, retailers have been working to capture these consumers, and Amazon is no exception. As of 2017, Amazon is the 5th largest overall retail operation in the UK, trailing only the big four grocers. In specific toy sales, Amazon is growing rapidly, and some observers have predicted that it could become the leading toy retailer by 2020.

Let's take a closer look at Amazon's toy offering. The UK is Europe's biggest toy market and has one of the highest rates of online penetration of any retail category. 36.8% of toy sales in 2017 took place online and, with the closure of Toys R Us, that number could potentially increase in 2018. Though Amazon.

co.uk does not (yet) control the largest share of these sales, it does enjoy the highest customer loyalty: 61.2% of customers shop at Amazon frequently, significantly higher than Argos (47.8%), driven by the Amazon Prime subscription service, user-centricity, infinite shelf and low prices.

Millennials with young children are now the largest consumer cohort and they are driving toy trends in two opposing directions. At one end of the spectrum, having grown up with digital technology, millennial parents are comfortable with robotic and/or app-enabled toys.

On the other hand, these same parents are investing in high-quality, traditional educational or skill-building toys. This trend is influenced by two factors: parents are making an

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Six of Lego's 14 leading toys are licensed products, four of them associated with the Harry Potter franchise. Licensed products are performing especially well in the UK compared to Amazon's other markets and with recent and upcoming movies in the Star Wars, Marvel, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park and Toy Story worlds, this trend looks set to continue.

In addition to its licences, Lego also has its own film franchise, with two films released in 2017 and another two scheduled for 2019 release.

The Lego Boost Creative Toolbox Robot Building Kit (number 4 best-selling toy of Q3) is the brand's contribution to the growing robotic toy trend. Although robot toys have actually diminished in popularity this year – Anki Cozmo was Amazon’s best-selling toy in 2017, but fell to number 38 in Q3 2018 - this is largely due to the fact that the current generation of robotic toys is now several years old. We expect another boom in the robotic toy category in the next year or two.

N HO N SEE UR N E O EM G W U BU KO PR R E RG N OD XC G U TO , L C ITIN Y ON TS G FA D AT IR ON S 20 & 19

WOODEN LIMBO

WOODEN RING TOSS

WOODEN GIANT STACK ‘N’ FALL

WOODEN SKITTLES

WOODEN CROQUET

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Special Feature

Amazon making an effort to raise active children, trying to foster an interest in sport and physical activity, even through the cold winter months.

Similarly, parents are also trying reduce their kids' screen time and encourage more social activity, which is driving growth in Family Gaming and Strategic Card Games, two subcategories of Games & Puzzles (although it's interesting to note that the top spot in the Games & Puzzles category is held by Cards Against Humanity, a game for adults).

Both of these trends are partially influenced by the nature of ecommerce – as some consumers are not bringing their kids to the toy store as frequently as they used to, they are less likely to buy toys on impulse and are more mindful of the potential benefits of their purchases, be it active play, social activities or educational/skill-building toys.

However, brick-and-mortar stores remain in a healthy position: many families still value the experience of trying out different toys in

Finally, Lego is also playing a role in the Kidult trend. The brand's Technic line (three items in the top 50) is predominantly marketed to an older audience than its classic toys. Toy spending 'by adults, for adults' is on the rise and Lego is benefitting from this trend.

The fastest-growing toy category on Amazon. co.uk is Outdoor & Sports Toys, which grew by over 40% year-on-year during Q3 2018, to surpass Games & Puzzles and Infant & Preschool in total sales. Many toy companies in this space benefitted from a very successful Prime Day, which saw the category tripling its sales compared to 2017. The lift generated on Prime Day by brands such as Little Tikes and Nerf helped to increase their visibility ahead of Cyber Weekend and into December, positioning them for a successful holiday season.

When we look closely at the Outdoor & Sports Toys category, we find a high proportion of outdoor-themed toys which can also be used indoors. This category is driven by parents

person. The effect of this can be seen by the fact the L.O.L. Surprise! collectibles are the UK's bestselling toy of 2018 and yet only ranked as number 49 at Amazon in Q3 2018.

Online and in-store retail are two very different things and toy companies recognize the role that each channel plays in reaching customers. The high street toy store provides families with the experience of playing with a toy, while Amazon offers convenience. When parents go online to shop, it's because they already know what they want or they want to see what other customers are saying about it.

Most toy companies make over a third of their annual sales during the holiday season and as 2018 is the first festive season without Toys R Us, some of those sales are going to migrate online.

Amazon is increasing its market share and we believe it will be at the heart of growth in toy retail going forward.

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N HO N SEE UR N E O EM G W U BU KO PR R E RG N OD XC G U TO , L C ITIN Y ON TS G FA D AT IR ON S 20 & 19

‘‘The Great British Sewing Bee will return to BBC Two for a 5th Series with a new host, award-winning British comedian Joe Lycett”

SEWING STATION

PILLOW KIT

BLANKET KIT

TOTE BAG KIT

APRON KIT

PHONE/TABLET KIT

WRAP SKIRT KIT

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fresh FRESH THIS MONTH:

Each month Fresh sets out to find the latest products that will have toy retailers reaching for the phone.

Heye Puzzles

Puzzles and Play 01354 669 733 | www.puzzlesandplay.co.uk

Puzzles and Play has announced a further 45 releases which will be added to its range of Heye Puzzles. This includes a selection of standard 1000-piece jigsaws as well as 10 new designs from its famous triangular box puzzle range. These come with a poster included and are an eye-catching addition to any display. The Australian Habitat has now been added to the Funky Zoo range of designs from Marino Degano. These puzzles can be joined with any other puzzle within the Funky Zoo range to make one large puzzle.

All of these products will be available in early 2019 and can be ordered in singles rather than in carton quantities. With over 250 different images in total, the Heye range of puzzles continues to improve in size and quality, and grow in popularity.

Siku range

Alpha Toys 00353 673 800 | www.siku.de For the first time there will be a January release in 2019, which will give stockists a chance to refresh their range in January, giving enthusiasts have new models to collect early in the year. There will be further releases in March, June and September.

Siku continues to develop the 1:32 range with a Fendt in January, new Siku Control in March and 1:50 JCB in September.

The pocket money blister range will see the introduction of over 20 new models in 2019, with specific UK models and three packs. There are also new boxed gift sets being introduced.

The mix of authentic licensed cars, trucks, construction and farm models at affordable everyday prices is attractive to retailers who want to cater for impulse purchasing whilst providing good value for money.

Boasting a huge assortment of items, the Siku range offers year-round sales.

Fortnite Battle Royale collectible toys Worlds Apart and Moose Toys 0800 389 8591 | www.worldsapart.com The brand-new range launched exclusively at Smyths Toys Superstores pre-Christmas.

The Wave 1 range includes 20 poseable 5cm figures, including fan favourites such as Skull Trooper, Omega and Cuddle Team Leader.

The figures are available in Solo (one figure), Duo (two figures) and Squad (four figures) packs.

Toy World 50

L

si n i k

de

Celebrating 50 years of playing big!

Celebrating 50 years of playing big!

Captain Marvel

Hasbro 0208 569 1234 | www.hasbro.co.uk Part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the range includes dolls, role-play items and more, inspired by the upcoming Captain Marvel movie due for release in March 2019.

Products will include the Captain Marvel Movie Cosmic Doll. This 11.5-inch scale doll includes accessories, rooted hair, and two superpower-inspired blast accessories. Poseable, and featuring five points of articulation, the doll can be put in dynamic poses, ready for action.

Also available is the Captain Marvel Movie Photon Power Fx Glove. Children can press the star button to activate effects and imagine blasting down villains.

Companion Goose the Cat is available with the 11.5-inch scale Captain Marvel Doll And Marvel’s Goose accessory.

Also available in the range are the Marvel Legends Figures.

The 6-inch Legends range includes the Captain Marvel Figure, the Captain Marvel in Bomber Jacket Figure, the Talos Figure, the Nick Fury Figure and the Star Force Commander Figure.

Lil’ Gleemerz

Mattel 01628 500 000 | www.mattel.com Mattel’s brand-new interactive toy Lil’ Gleemerz is supported by a host of celebrity parents, including singer and TV Personality Peter Andre, singer Una Healy, CBB Winner Ryan Thomas, I’m a Celeb Star Becky Vardy and CBB and The Apprentice star Luisa Zissman, all of whom have been debuting this new toy exclusively before Christmas.

With rainbow coloured light-up fluffy tails that respond to touch and sound, the interactive Lil Gleemerz feature over 100 reactions for children to discover and three ways to play. In hangout mode, children can pet and pinch the Lil’ Gleemerz for purrs, growls, jokes, funny phrases and more. In light party mode, children can clap or play music and the Lil’ Gleemerz will flash their eyes and tails to the beat for a dazzling light show. In game mode, children can play three different games (Catch the Kiss, Tail Tennis, and Stop the Spot). Lil’ Gleemerz are also available in a variety of bright colours, with four to collect. Cheat Codes will be dropped throughout the year to unlock even more reactions.

X-Shot Fast Fill

Zuru 01604 401 719 | sales@geemac.biz Available in the UK from spring 2019, the X-Shot Fast Fill is set to revolutionise the water blaster category. Due to its speed and ease of use, consumers are offered maximum performance. With a fill-time of just one second, children can refill their blasters quickly, thereby increasing valuable play time by getting back to the action long before their opponents. The blaster has also been designed to be filled anywhere, and is equipped with a superior ‘RapidSeal Technology’ that closes the blaster tank instantly. The tank holds up to 700ml of water and the blasting power reaches distances of up to 10 metres.

Since the brand’s launch, Zuru X-Shot has experienced success and strong growth. Latest figures (as of year-end 2018) show that the X-Shot brand has grown globally by 66% YOY (2017-2018), with Zuru reporting that it produced 80m blasters for the whole of the year and 3.4m darts produced daily throughout 2018. In addition to this upturn in growth, the innovative X-Shot Flying Bugs was also nominated for Toy of the year, reflecting the popularity of the range and its product lines.

The new blaster will be available from March 2019, with the launch supported by a robust PR and marketing campaign, including a global television commercial, as well as engaging social media content across all channels.

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In addition to celebrity endorsement, marketing support will include an extensive TV campaign launching on Boxing Day, plus kid influencer content and digital activations that will follow in the new year.

Q&A

Tomy

There’s something about Mary Since joining the company just over a year ago, Tomy’s UK & Ireland general manager, Mary Wood, has overseen a period of significant, positive change. With a raft of fresh product and a new collectible range in the pipeline, alongside the recently announced strategic partnership with leading UK games manufacturer Drumond Park, John Baulch and Rachael Simpson-Jones paid Mary a visit just before Christmas to find out what’s in store for Tomy in 2019. hard year for Tomy because of what we had in the portfolio going into 2018. Decisions were made a few years ago which saw investment pulled back from product development, and this resulted in the less strong ranges we had last year. However, that decision has thankfully been reversed, and we now have plenty in the pipeline to look forward to. A year ago, the company was a bit wounded by Pokémon being taken out of the portfolio, but one of the challenges with a big brand like that is that you can lose focus on the core business. With Pokémon gone, we’ve concentrated on healing and nurturing those brands that needed it, and it’s starting to pay off.

One of our highlights is our smartphone printer Kiipix; although it’s not sold in toy channels it has really come through and has helped us hit our 2018 numbers.

What attracted you to the role at Tomy?

Although I had thoroughly enjoyed the marketing positions I’ve previously held, I’d been hankering after a general manager role, so I was delighted when the opportunity arose at Tomy.

Interestingly, I applied just for the UK general managers’ role but, by the end of the interview, I’d also been offered the chance to oversee the European marketing business too. Mark Foster was here at that time, whom I really liked and respected; so often a job is as much about the people you work with as it is the brands you manage. Tomy had also been flying under the radar for a while when I came on board, and when a company has an opportunity to grow it’s nice to be a part of that growth. Joining a company at the top of its game is harder in some ways - carving a space for yourself can be challenging.

How have you found your first year?

Tough, as expected. I doubt there is anything I can say that hasn’t already been said by everyone else in the trade. We knew it was going to be a

What do you feel are Tomy’s core strengths?

Tomy is 94 years old, and the Japanese therefore take a very long-term strategic view of things. We’re preparing for the company’s 100th anniversary, and that’s very rare – certainly amongst the companies I’ve worked for. We still have to hit targets, don’t get me wrong, but the perspective on these things is markedly different.

There is a quote from our chairman, Kentaro Tomiyama, which really sums this up: “If ever you feel hesitant or lost, remember that Tomy has a 94 year history of Never Giving Up. I encourage you to take on challenges, without fear of failure, and to respond to the trends and needs of the moment.” It’s an outlook I’ve never experienced outside of Tomy, whether in the UK, USA or Germany, and it allows for a very different view on investment in brands and marketing.

When you joined Tomy, what were the key challenges you faced?

Tomy’s core brands were weak - there wasn’t enough new product - and the team needed to be brought together from a brand and sales perspective, in order to harness the combined

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strengths of everyone. It’s a cliché, I know, but if you get everyone working together towards a common goal you can achieve so much, and if they truly believe in what they can achieve, they’ll surpass their original goals too.

As a general principle, the UK operation looks to align itself quite closely with the US. If we have brands and strategies in common, it’s much more helpful than all of us doing individual things. We have a huge amount of autonomy over here, but at the end of the day I have to deliver results, and the team has to deliver results - I’m just given a huge amount of flexibility in how we do that. When you join a business there’s always a honeymoon period to make some changes, and to try some different things, and I’d like to think everyone is happy with where we are so far.

What are the plans for next year?

I’ve just come back from the Deauville preview in France, which I attended in 2017 after just six days in the role, and the difference in that year is remarkable. Customers who had only booked a short amount of time with us last year were spending two or three hours at the stand this time around, as there was so much to see. We had visitors gazing around in astonishment, and I’m confident that we’ll see the same reaction in London and Nuremberg.

We’ve stabilised Lamaze with new price points, categories and refreshed packaging. We’ve fixed the packaging for Toomies so that consumers can now see and try the product at point of purchase, and resolved issues with the price points too. The Aquadoodle range has seen brand extensions that widened its core target market of 18 months to up to three years old, and we are seeing strong sellthrough on it this year.

I’m sure most people know that we recently signed the global master toy deal for Ricky Zoom, which we believe will be the next big pre-school licence. With the phenomenal experience of eOne behind it, all the signs point to Ricky being a standout success. It may have come as a surprise to some that we landed that deal, but Alpesh

Q&A

Tomy

Patel, our global head of design, did an absolutely incredible job with the product pitch - he and his team and really did win us that licence, and deservedly so.

We’re launching a new girls’ collectible in autumn/winter 2019 called Ritzy Rollers, which was very well received at both the October Hong Kong show and the Deauville preview.

Ritzy Rollers is all about glitz and glamour, customisation and collectibility, plus it’s a really pretty product. It’s not a category you enter into lightly or half-heartedly, but we’re sure that buyers will be pleased with both the product and the level of investment we’re putting behind it.

There are some serious competitors in the girls’ market at the moment, but there’s no doubt Ritzy can hold its own.

On top of all that, we have a product that I can’t actually name. We’re hoping to showcase this at London Toy Fair, but it will be highly dependent upon the level of security we can organise. A Japanese-developed, one-off standalone product, it’s under very close protection at the moment and we think it’s a very big deal. If it’s not on show at London, it will be at Nuremberg, so attendees can see it there.

I very much hope that people see and believe

in what we are doing at Tomy. I’d urge everyone to set aside plenty of time with us at London Toy Fair, and to please keep their opens to buy directed towards Tomy in 2019, because there is so much on offer.

What are the plans for the future regarding your games portfolio, now that Tomy has signed a strategic partnership with Drumond Park?

The partnership with Drumond Park will give us a much bigger focus on our core games business. There aren’t many brands which allow you to bolt on that amount of turnover overnight, and landing the deal was worth all the hard work that went into the negotiations. It’s a huge coup for us and we fully intend to capitalise on it. We’ll be keeping the Tomy-branded games portfolio Pop Up Pirate does huge volume for us every year and the franchise will be expanded with new additions – while the Drumond catalogue gives us the Articulate family, the Logo family, Rapidough, the ‘Best Of’ games, and a raft of new products too that we will showcase for the first time at London Toy Fair.

The Drumond Park 2019 portfolio offers a wide variety of games and play patterns, and covers a range of price points and target age groups.

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Affordable, great value games sit right alongside more traditionally priced ones, and because the play patterns are so varied there is a real justification for people to stock the whole offering.

The games category has been incredibly tough this year, and we’ll be investing solidly going forward to ensure we’re strong in this area.

What do you hope to have achieved over the next 12 months?

I’d like the key new properties to perform as well as we hope they will, and for our key brands to continue down the positive route that we’ve been seeing. On top of this, we will be building an even stronger level of product development for 2020, and as we prepare for our 100th anniversary we’d like to be a top 10 toy company across Europe. If we have the success this year that we’re expecting we’ll have an excellent springboard to achieve those goals. It’s worth bearing in mind that a lot of the work that’s in place for this coming year was started two years ago; it’s not an overnight process. You need to look at what you can change and change it, and there is so much within our control. I’ve said to a lot of people that 2019 is Tomy’s year, and I’m excited for people to see this for themselves.

www.magictears.toys

Special Feature

Little Tikes

Little Tikes nifty at fifty Little Tikes is set to celebrate a landmark anniversary this year, so Toy World caught up with Michelle Lilley, UK head of marketing, to find out what’s in store and why the brand has remained such a success.

Little Tikes will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019 – how has the brand evolved since its inception?

Our core focus has always been on creating lifelong, fun-filled memories that enable children to develop through play. As we’ve moved through the years, we’ve innovated and kept up with industry trends and developments while staying true to the brand’s core values. We have always combined a mix of classic play patterns with innovation to offer a broad range of toys that both children and their gift-giver will love.

Our consumer is always at the heart of what we do, and we measure our success upon the value of play which is brought to children through our toys. This comes through the toys we make and the way we communicate with our consumers, whether that be through TV, social media or at events.

To what does the company owe its longevity in the marketplace?

At Little Tikes we understand the importance of always putting play and the consumer first; this, and the support from our retailers, has ultimately driven the success of the brand. We’re constantly developing our offering and providing regular new product development within core collections and new ranges.

Products such as the Cozy Coupe, Cape Cottage Playhouse and Turtle Sandbox have brought enjoyment to generations over the past 50 years, and have encouraged development and learning through play. We’ve also added new categories such as our STEM Jr. range to ensure Little Tikes remains relevant and continues to be a key player in the pre-school sector.

Can we expect anything special this year to celebrate this landmark achievement?

Absolutely; we have lots of new products launching as well as significant media support across all categories. To complement this, we will also be hitting the road in spring 2019 to deliver our Big Play Date to consumers. This will give both adults and children the opportunity to Play Big, something which is key to our values.

The British summer last year was one of the best on record. How did it affect Little Tikes’ performance?

Naturally we saw a rise in sales of outdoor toys, which secured us a place as the No. 2 brand property in NPD. We also had three toys featured within NPD’s Top 50 toys, while our Fountain Factory Water Table hit the No. 1 spot for outdoor toys.

As the Little Tikes portfolio diversifies, it secures our place in the industry as

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a key infant and pre-school brand, alongside our already successful outdoor and ride-on categories. We are very much an all-year-round brand with toys to suit all seasons. As our leader often says, “Every day is someone’s birthday” so we prefer to focus on marketing to our consumers all year round, to ensure we are there when they need us, and whatever the weather or occasion.

The challenges of 2018 look set to continue into this year; how is Little Tikes planning to weather the next 12 months?

With birthday celebrations and multiple activations across all categories on the horizon, 2019 is set to be a big year for Little Tikes. We have expanded the team and have finalised considerable trade plans to ensure new product launches - including a few surprise new categories alongside the core offering - are successful.

It’s a very exciting year for the brand and we’re prepared for whatever the weather throws at us.

How do you see the company evolving between now and its 60th anniversary?

The opportunity over the next decade is huge and being at one with our consumers (both child and adult), presents an even bigger space for us to flourish. We believe in thinking like a child and playing big. We have some of the best creators and designers worldwide sitting within the MGA family, and we are constantly looking for the newest way to talk to and engage with our consumers. This year has seen some exciting innovations in the way we get ourselves at the forefront of consumers’ minds. We worked with Yiannimize, car customiser to the stars, to launch our newest ride-on, the Sports Racer, and as a result we accessed a different audience and saw real diversity in our products.

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Viewpoint Another year over, a new one just begun…

David Ripley David is currently EMEA category director for Toys, Nursery, Sporting Goods & Pet Care at Groupon. His long career as a toy buyer has included stints at a number of the industry’s largest retail accounts.

You’ll recognise this month’s heading as the words of John Lennon, talking about the year to come in his Christmas song of 1972.

So, fast forward to 2019, what does the coming year have in store for the toy industry? My view is that the year will take the momentum of 2018, both good and bad, and deliver three trends: Further consolidation Last year saw the highest consolidation of retailers, licensors and suppliers for many years; this year will continue the trend, with companies seeking safety in numbers and improved operational efficiency.

We have seen a few large-scale retailers consolidate, led by the leading grocery brands, and a higher volume of supply- side SMEs join forces and consolidate their joint operations. But I am going to stick my neck out and predict that some much larger manufacturers will

join forces this year. Looking at the performance of the manufacturing Top 20 in NPD, it is inevitable that previous brand powerhouses will be forced into consolidation to create shareholder value.

Less innovation Uncertain times call for improved financial risk assessments and, typically, de-risking the investment on new products and marketing.

The counter argument is a circular reference; you invest in both to ensure that your company has a fresh customer offer, point of difference and strong product and brand awareness. However, with diminishing payback opportunities, this is an area that will not escape the financial belt-tightening.

At a retail level, expect space to continue to shrink at both a macro and micro level and existing store footprints to be shrunk or seasonally realigned at best.

Whichever way this is viewed, it

means further reduction in on-shelf sales opportunities for brands and licensors and their properties.

Brain drain This industry has always been supportive of individuals, but with fewer career opportunities in the toy industry comes the very real likelihood of many existing employees that make up the heart of this industry drifting away into different roles in alternative companies, disciplines and product areas.

Musical chairs has always been the game of choice in toys, with people jumping ship and at times the fence, but with fewer chairs comes fewer options to remain.

Personally, I see this as one of the biggest impacts to an industry that really does have a heart and soul on a global scale.

See you all at Toy Fair!

Life after Toys R Us

Philip Bloom Philip has spent 50 years in the toy retail business, including 20 with Toys R Us, where he became VP of international merchandising. Philip now edits The Bloom Report, a weekly online report on the toy industry.

The late Charles Lazarus, founder of Toy R Us, was arguably also the founder of Big Box Specialty Retailing. As he began to open large toy stores of 40,000 square feet, he gave toy manufacturers the opportunity to grow as they never had before. He did this by offering them a place to put their products and in most cases, their entire lines of merchandise - on a year-round basis. Up to that time, toys were basically seen as a fourth quarter business. Lazarus approached the manufacturing community and promised them year-round exposure. All they had to do was finance his inventory with long-term invoice dating. In other words, they could manufacture all year and ship all year by granting TRU payment terms that were stretched out for as long as a year. TRU would maintain inventory on new and carry-forward items, allowing consumers to buy toys all year - and buy they did!

Manufacturers could now put new items on the shelves early in the year to test their viability and TRU would develop sales projections and place orders with manufacturers for large scheduled deliveries later in the year.

For the first time, suppliers had realworld information on which to base manufacturing.

Over the years, TRU developed computer programmes to help their buyers to gauge demand at their stores and to place orders to satisfy that demand, giving TRU - and other big box toy chains at the time - the ability to maximize sales. TRU was able to do what no other toy retailer could or wanted to do - maximize sales on over 10,000 items during the six weeks prior to Christmas, and beyond.

TRU even forecast carry-over quantities on most items and purchased that carry-over inventory for mid to late December delivery, ensuring an in-stock position after Christmas and well into the first quarter of the next year. No retailer had ever done that before.

Which brings me to the point of this article: this year, I have constantly seen industry sales projections for the year and beyond which seem to me to be totally unrealistic. Of course, Amazon, Walmart and Target will probably show decent - maybe even largeincreases year on year. But rest assured, they do not want inventory on hand at year-end when they cut back their toy departments.

They will not be purchasing any significant inventory to stock their shelves after Christmas.

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Each year, our industry has 200300 items that come under the label of ‘hot items’. Any given retailer could probably sell an unlimited amount of these items if they could get them – but they can't. In the past, TRU was always the most likely to get some stock on many of these items.

And after Christmas, shipments of these hot items to TRU would generate sizable volume in the first quarter.

After the hot items come another 2,000-3,000 lines that are strong sellers, but not necessarily hot.

These are the items that TRU bought as carry-over. Without TRU carryover buying, many millions of dollars of sales will surely be lost to manufacturers, decreasing industry sales.

And what about the liquidation of the TRU inventory? Several billion dollars of inventory was put into consumer hands. That will surely have a huge impact on future toy sales.

While I have always taken an optimistic approach to our industry, it's getting harder and harder to see our industry grow in the next few years. In my opinion, in the US at least, we will need to adjust to being a smaller industry.

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Viewpoint Toy Fair season starts here

John Baulch John has worked in toy trade publishing for over 35 years, and will be well known to our readers for his personal analysis of industry matters and forthright opinions. If they get past Anita.

T

he festive trading period is over for another year and the thoughts of the toy community have already turned to Christmas 2019. By the time you are reading this, toy suppliers and retailers from across the globe will have headed to Hong Kong, where Toy Fair Season kicks off. Over the following six weeks, further toy shows will follow in London, Nuremberg and New York, before retailers head home to finalise their selections.

It is not an exaggeration to say that this six-week period is crucial to the fortunes of the majority of toy companies - decisions taken during this time can make or break the year for many businesses. All the hard work devoted to product development by suppliers over the past six months will shortly be judged by retailers, resulting in either glorious affirmation or crushing disappointment.

As ever, product is king in the toy trade: while buyers will have had precious few days to forensically analyse their festive sales figures before Toy Fair Season, they will arrive with ideas as to which categories performed well, which categories need freshening up and which areas may find themselves taking a back seat as new product sectors emerge to take their shelf space.

In addition to the opportunity to assess which products retailers will be backing over the coming months, Toy Fair Season also represents the perfect opportunity to network with peers and colleagues and get a better understanding of the business challenges which lie ahead.

Many believe that the toy industry – and indeed the entire retail sphere – finds itself at a truly historic inflection point. 2018 saw big winners and losers amongst suppliers and retailers, as well as some seismic shifts in the way in which the global toy trade conducts business.

Here are just a few of the major developments which are likely to impact the toy trade, and which will inevitably be the subject of much discussion over the coming weeks: The post-Toys R Us landscape The collapse of Toys R Us in the US in 2018 caused massive shock waves across the toy community. Some

territories have seen a viable retail operation emerge from the wreckage – including Asia, Canada, Germany and Spain – while the retailer has disappeared completely from many other countries, including the UK. Its future in the US remains shrouded in both mystery and controversy, as reports suggest that an own-brand programme, under the Geoffrey’s Toy Box name, aimed at providing existing retailers with a ready-made toy offering could be expanded into a fully-fledged stand-alone retail operation next year.

In the interim, many other retailers have moved swiftly to take advantage of the demise of Toys R Us, with results varying across international markets. In the UK, the Toys R Us business, which many believed would be spread across the trade, has been described as having “literally evaporated” by one prominent retail buyer. This anecdotal observation is backed up by statistical evidence from NPD: including Toys R Us in the numbers, the UK toy market up to the end of October was 11% down.

The comparative like-for-like performance, i.e. stripping Toys R Us out of the number, has the market 1% up, while October like-for-like was down 1%. Essentially, just before the festive season kicked off, it appeared that there had been no significant move of the previous TRU turnover to other retailers. The US numbers look slightly more encouraging, with the market growing by 2% to the end of September. Logically, the US should be missing Toys R Us far more than the UK: on which basis, one conclusion is that the key driver in terms of the respective performances of the two countries is likely to be the state of the economy in each territory.

Evolving Trading Patterns While it is dangerous to generalise, few would dispute that the global toy market remains volatile and unpredictable. It’s getting harder to anniversary numbers, as previous trading patterns are not being replicated, and while many retail buyers are looking to make decisions earlier and earlier, sales appear to be getting later and later.

US / China Tariffs Recent developments in the ongoing saga have offered a modicum of encouragement, with

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proposed US tariffs on $200bn of Chinese goods being delayed by 90 days to allow further discussion on key points of contention.

But few see this move as a definitive cancellation, more as a postponement which may still lead to an increase in tariffs if the two sides can’t find common ground in the next three months. Should the trade war escalate further, toys will inevitably be dragged into the equation, which will hurt both Chinese and US toy companies, as well as retailers and, ultimately, consumers. If it happens, it is unlikely that this impact will be confined purely to the US – America’s pivotal role in the global toy community means the shock waves would almost certainly be felt across the globe.

Brexit Here in the UK, we have our own specific trading challenge; the impending threat of Brexit.

While the situation is by no means cut and dried, it looks likely that the UK will leave the EU in March 2019 – although quite how we will leave, and what Brexit will mean for importers, exporters, the economy, the exchange rate, consumer confidence and a whole host of other critical variables, remains to be seen. Suffice to say that clarity and certainty are two essential tenets of business-planning strategy, and right now the only certainty is uncertainty. A worrying few months lies ahead for British toy companies, as they attempt to plan for a scenario which no-one can confidently predict or even agree upon (not even the politicians planning it).

Consolidation Given the turbulence in retail markets across the globe, the general consensus across the global toy community is that there will be further mergers, acquisitions and deals to come in the coming months.

Here in the UK, we have already seen Goliath Games acquire Vivid and Moose Toys acquire Worlds Apart in the past couple of weeks, while successful UK retailers such as The Entertainer, Smyths and Hamleys are growing their overseas presence through acquisitions and franchise deals.

On so many levels, this year’s Toy Fair Season certainly promises to be a fascinating one.

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Viewpoint It’s Show Time!

Vance Withers Vance is an experienced company director, now running The 496 Partnership.

He has previously worked at Worlds Apart, as a commercial consultant and in the FMCG industry.

W

ell, here we are again – refreshed, re-vitalised and raring to go.

It’s that crazy time of year, so get ready for a few weeks of pitching, negotiating, over-eating, over drinking and staying up too late.

Seriously though, there’s no doubt that January is a very exciting month in the toy calendar.

It’s a fresh start to another year of opportunities, challenges and rewards. You set the dial to zero and you head off into the unknown, with your plans made and your forecasts completed – ready to take on the world.

It’s exciting to think about the opportunities that are going to come out of all the trade fairs that take place during this period.

You get to confirm those key commitments that will shape your year to come. You get to catch up with old friends, see what’s new in the market and get a feel for how everyone views the commercial landscape. It’s also a great time to establish new relationships – both personal and commercial.

There’s so much effort that goes into every trade show and most of you reading this will have been working feverishly for the last few months (and probably over Christmas) making sure that you’ve got prototypes and samples ready and that you have the perfect stand that will showcase these new products and ranges to the key contacts in the trade. You’ll have been confirming appointments and practising your sales pitch. You will certainly have been making sure that you’ve got the back up support in place to allow you to process and follow up on each customer enquiry in a timely and professional manner. (incidentally, if this is an area where you feel you could improve, check out the latest product from the guys at Showcloud – it’s very impressive).

It’s fair to say that trade shows mean different things to different people. For some people reading this, these events have become a necessary evil. For others, these fairs could be make or break - and could even be the key to whether or not the company survives for another year. Whatever your situation, one thing is certain: there’s always plenty at stake and we all strive to do whatever it takes to make the shows as successful as they can be.

By the time the doors open at the first show, everything will be looking its best; all shiny, new and fabulous. You’ll be desperate to start demonstrating the new winners for the next season.

However, spare a thought for the products and ranges that got you this far - the ranges that deliver for you day in, day out.

The ones that keep the wheels turning, the offices lit and the bills paid. What happens to the established products - the core ranges - when you get to the trade fairs? They won’t have shiny plinths and spotlights, and even though these core products will be allocated space on the stand, you’ll find that (and this comes from personal experience) the people manning the stand will often resemble a group of very young children playing football – all herding around the ball. Everyone wants to be in at the key pitches – everybody wants to be the person that gets the winning goal. Of course, you can understand why everyone wants to join in and why limited time is available for all the rest; it’s just so important to get the new products selected.

However, we want to make sure that every product opportunity is explored, every promotional slot is discussed, and we need to maximise the impact of every square metre of our stands.

Of course, there are many ways to ensure that you get the right focus in the right areas, but there are some key things to consider:

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se your knowledge of the • U skills and strengths of your people to allocate roles to every member of your stand team.

Make individuals responsible for managing key aspects of the customer interaction – for example, team members who pitch the new products, those who pitch the core products, those who meet and greet, and those who look after the flow of people on and off the stand - critical to a smooth-running show. ake sure that the account • M managers detail exactly what they want from each customer meeting and share those key objectives with all the front-line members of the stand team. tart each day with a quick • S briefing to remind everyone exactly what you need to get out of every meeting. reat the core products with • T care and respect. Talk about the future and the opportunities and use this quality time when buyers are away from their desks to discuss new ways of doing things. Use the time to present new opportunities. Unless you’re at saturation point from a sales and distribution point, there will always be something to talk about.

There’s no doubt that 2019 will be at least as challenging as any year we’ve ever known so invest time beforehand to ensure every meeting is a productive as it could possibly be.

Focus on the new ranges as these are key to your future success but treasure the core products as much as you treasure the new products. They’ve served you well to this point and you’d miss them if they suddenly weren’t around.

Viewpoint Too much of a good thing

Matthew Smith Matthew is head of AV at Arena Azure, a specialist media planning and buying agency focused on child markets

I

n the advertising world, it is often said that, in times of hardship, it is those clients which continue to spend that will fare best. The same advice could be heeded by commercial kids’ TV channels. September and October, for example, are traditionally the months that these channels push their new programming; a chance to launch new licences, to attract new viewers and keep the faithful ones engaged with new content. However, there has been a recent trend of channels finding out what works well and focusing heavily on those shows. For example, Milkshake enjoyed a very strong September and October, with programming impacts increasing by 33% and 8% respectively YOY. The secret to its success? It increased the episode count of Peppa Pig by 235% - from 104 episodes over the same two months last year to 348 this year.

In 2017, Peppa Pig accounted for 10% of all programmes shown on Milkshake; this year that figure stands at 31%, nearly a third of all its programmes.

Milkshake has also applied this strategy to other programmes; the Ben and Holly episode count is up 100% on September and October last year. However, this is to the detriment of other programmes and the toy companies that hold the licences. The episode count of Bob the Builder, for instance, is down from 61 last year to just 18 this year, a decrease of 70%.

Similar stories can be told of the episode count of Rusty Rivets (down 59%) and Nella the Princess Knight (down 55%).

There are mitigating circumstances to the decline in airtime for some other programmes, such as the lack of new episodes, dwindling ratings or making space for new launches such as Thomas and Friends: Big World! Big Adventures. However, it does beg the question as to

why plans weren’t put in place to maintain a steady stream of new content: a lack of new programming doesn’t account for Peppa Pig representing almost a third of the schedule.

The conclusion is that this is a safe strategy that a channel can bank on; knowing that Peppa is a ratings winner, more programming is being pumped out to increase market share.

Which is all well and good for the short term; Nick Jr 2 is one of the few channels to see YOY increase in impacts, which has also been achieved by doubling its Peppa Pig count. The big question is how long this approach will continue to be successful? And how does it affect other licences and the opportunity to bring through new programmes?

Not everyone is doing it, though.

Cartoon Network also had a very good September and October, with programming impacts up 46%.

The variety of programmes has also gone up, from 17 different programmes last year to 24 this year. In September and October 2017, The Amazing World of Gumball accounted for 34% of all the channel’s episodes broadcast; in 2018 it is still the most frequent programme, but now only accounts for 25%.

Maybe it is because younger audiences are more likely to accept watching the same programmes and enjoy the familiarity. Disney Jr has increased its programming content, with the variety of programmes in September and October up 13% on last year, but impacts have decreased 34% in that time. Of course, some programmes are doing better than others: Vampirina has gone from an episode count of 36 last year to 371 in the same period this year, but that can partially be explained by the number of episodes available. Conversely The Lion Guard, a big programme for Disney Jr, has dropped the

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number of times it is broadcast by half. The easy option would have been to load up on its behemoth programme PJ Masks, but instead the channel was brave and tried new content. Unfortunately, that strategy hasn’t worked as well as hoped.

We can see from the limited data we have from November that Disney Jr has started to revert back to trusted favourites; PJ Masks, Jessie and Raven’s Home all made big comebacks in the month, in an attempt to shore up impacts.

The dilemma for the TV stations now is whether to be bold and search for that new big programme, take a punt and potentially find a few clangers, or stick with what works and hope that viewers come back to TV. Personally, I hope for the former, as it has long been acknowledged that new programming on kids’ TV is underfunded. TV stations have become complacent, increasing the number of repeats they show rather than investing in new content.

The other big question for TV channels is whether to adopt a new strategy. Q4 is too important a period in which to try out new programmes, and often too late for there to be licensed toys available for Christmas based on an untried format. Much better to test out new programmes early in the year, bleeding the new talent through so they are established ratings winners by the time Q4 comes around.

There is some hope out there though. Coming next year, Butterfly Rainbow Unicorn Kitty is a personal favourite, managing to cram in every buzz word possible for a generation of kids searching the internet. We don’t know how it will perform, but we do know that kids’ TV needs more investment to establish the next wave of new programmes, and hopefully discover the next Peppa Pig.

Hot

Properties

T

he world of licensing, despite facing its own particular set of challenges, remains a core part of the toy industry year after year, with evergreen and emerging properties alike offering accessibility to a strong range of toys and kids’ gifting products. Toy World takes a look at what’s in store for 2019.

NPD data showed that licensed toys accounted for 24% of the total value of UK toys (NPD POS Retail Tracking), while toys accounted for 25% of total licensed spending on kids aged 0-14 years, with the market worth around £977m in the last 12 months (NPD Licence Tracker).

Furthermore, NPD reported that over 8,000 new licensed toy items had been released as of October 2018, across all categories. New offerings were particularly strong in Action Figures, Building Sets and Vehicles, the latter driven (pun intended) by the likes of PJ Masks, Jurassic World and Paw Patrol, all of which feature vehicles as a key part of their respective themes.

Data also reveals that a strong licence doesn’t necessarily require a newlyreleased movie or TV programme to sell toys. The 20th anniversary of the year the first book was published saw Harry Potter become the No. 2 toy property in the UK market for the month of October, and the fourth fastest-growing licence this year. Indeed, the Harry Potter Hogwarts Great Hall Lego set was the only licensed product to make it into the list of the top 10 best-selling toys for the first week of December. The popularity of the Wizarding World franchise at large has also boosted sales of Harry Potter, with the two Fantastic Beasts films reigniting the passion for all things magical among older fans, and providing an entry point into the fandom for younger kids.

The 2019 movie scene has a veritable smorgasbord to look forward to.

Marvel’s hugely anticipated Avengers: Endgame will see a new wave of action figures and role-play accessories hit the market, while the studio is also set to premiere its first female-led superhero movie, Captain Marvel, which could potentially inject new blood into accessories and action figures for girls.

DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon 3: The Hidden World also hits cinemas

in February, and Toy Story 4 returns in June, nine years after we all wept at Woody, Buzz and co holding hands in an incinerator. Live-action/CGI remakes of The Lion King, Aladdin and Dumbo are on the way from Disney, though it’s arguably unlikely that these will translate into toy sales as strongly as other cinematic properties might. As seen with 2017’s Beauty and the Beast, the natural aging up of live-action remakes, visually stunning as they may be, can lead to the removal of toyetic elements from the property. It has also been suggested that these live-action remakes appeal more to grown-up fans of the original cartoon versions than to kids.

Much attention is being given to Fortnite at the moment, the co-op, multiplayer survival/shooter game with close to 125m players around the world.

While licensed products based on popular computer games have long been common, the immense popularity of Fortnite – largely due to it being free to play – has seen companies falling over themselves to license everything from dart blasters to pencil toppers, with merchandise being well received at retail by fans (and their parents) eager to secure the newest products.

The marriage of licences and pop culture has given a numerous properties a new route to market via a strong foothold in gifting and kidult products, with manufacturers and retailers predicting that the popularity of pop culture products will continue to soar. Defined as “modern popular culture transmitted via the mass media and aimed particularly at younger people”, pop culture offers both kids and adults a way to support their favourite brands and properties in a way that many view as cooler than buying traditional toys. One need only look to the likes of Funko and Wow! Stuff to see the growing demand for these products. If one thing is for certain, it’s that this category is one to watch in 2019.

The Hot Properties section is split into two simple categories – Pre-School, and Kids & Families – and over the next few pages we bring you a selection of the hottest properties that will be driving the toy market in 2019.

Hotproperties

Twilight zone Rachael Simpson-Jones spoke to Ian Chambers, CEO of Mind Candy, about how Moshi Monsters is making a comeback in the toy market, and how the property is helping kids – and their parents – to get a good night’s sleep.

Can you tell us about the Moshi Egg Hunt range and how it fits into the Moshi world?

Moshi Egg Hunt is a Top 5 mobile game, with no in-app purchases or social media features for parents to worry about. The game gives toy manufacturers and retailers an opportunity to bring new products to market; our deal with Flair will see a new collectibles range hit shelves at the end of this month. The first wave will comprise 40 Moshling characters from the game, including ultra-rare, limited edition and Super Moshlings.

Egg Hunt offers kids an experience that combines physical and digital play, something which has always been very important to Mind Candy. In the game, kids can collect eggs containing Moshlings, while a range of pseudo-social features lets them decorate rooms, compare their collection with others and, as always in Moshi, play a range of “stealth education” games which parents love just as much as kids do.

The products themselves provide a clear link back to the game world. We know that kids come to Moshi from a range of angles, including physical products and the game itself. When kids buy a collectible from Flair, they’ll receive a unique code which unlocks content within the game. Any monetisation is therefore happening outside the game, allowing parents to decide for themselves if they want to reward their child with a toy. Collectibles are the centrepiece of the line and have proven very successful in the past, but we’re looking at other opportunities to bring the Egg Hunt IP to life too. Our head of licensing, Holly Lackey, is the person to speak to if anyone is interested in coming on board.

What is the idea behind Moshi Twilight and how will it be translated into physical product?

Moshi Twilight is a new direction for the Moshi IP. Michael Acton-Smith, the original founder of Moshi, is a co-CEO of Calm - Apple’s App of the Year 2017 - and he’s seen spectacular success with the app over in the US. We saw an opportunity to address the global issue of sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep affects children’s development, growth and learning, so by using the world of Moshi, and the affinity kids feel for the characters, we’ve created similar mechanisms to those used in the Calm app to create content that can help kids to relax and sleep well. Key to this concept is the fact that Moshi Twilight is audio-only; the last thing we want to do is bring more blue light into kids’ bedrooms.

Moshi Twilight sleep stories are designed specifically to aid the process of children going to sleep. Each story is 20 minutes long; they start off in a very engaging manner, to activate the child’s creative mind, and feature a range of singing, narration and music. Over the 20 minutes, they gradually become more and more soporific, until they simply become white noise at the end.

The app has been live for a year and it’s performing really well. We’ve signed a global deal for licensed product with Posh Paws, and will be revealing more details on this at Toy Fair. Every licensed product will come with a subscription for the Moshi Twilight app, giving parents the chance to go beyond the free trial and to realise how well the app works.

Our main ambition when looking to expand the physical product range is to create toys that, when used with Moshi Twilight, help kids drift off to sleep by supporting the bedtime routine. We’re not looking to put Moshi Twilight across every product that is found in a bedroom; rather, we want to find licensees that would like to bring a small number of market-leading products to the sleep market and give them their own niche in the collection. Ultimately, every product released will support our goal – helping kids to sleep – which will naturally benefit parents and the wider family too.

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Hot Properties

Pre-school Masha and The Bear Lisle Licensing Masha and The Bear had its launch on free to air with Tiny Pop in December 2017 and quickly became the channel’s top performing show.

Masha was also a strong performer on Cartoonito, also ranking as the top performing show, with Season 3 launching in March 2018.

The brand has been a sell-out success at retail, with total toy sales up 24% YOY according to latest NPD market data. Sell through at retail is also up a massive 516% YOY. This has been driven through increased distribution and successful marketing campaigns, including support from TV advertising, on air sponsorship, YouTube and retail activations.

2019 will see the programme being added to, along with further launches from key licensees in the UK.

44 Cats Rainbow Spa 44 Cats is a Rainbow production in collaboration with Antoniano Bologna and Rai Ragazzi. The 52 x 13’ CGI series follows the daily adventures of Lampo, Milady, Pilou, and Meatball – four kittens who are part of a music band named The Buffycats. The protagonists live in the Clubhouse, a garage beside old Granny Pina’s house. Their adventures explore the themes of friendship and altruism: the four cats love helping others and always find creative solutions to everyday hitches by dealing with important themes like tolerance, diversity and acceptance. The show debuted on Rai Yoyo in November, whilst other broadcasting deals have been signed with Nickelodeon (multi-territorial), Discovery Kids (Latin America), Carousel (Russia) and Super RTL (Germany). Major broadcasting deals in France, the UK and many other countries are also in the pipeline.

Top Wing Nickelodeon Top Wing is the latest addition to Nickelodeon’s portfolio of pre-school properties. The animation boasts all the signature elements of a top toy property, including appealing characters, pre-school friendly themes, humour, and hi-tech gadgets and vehicles.

65.3 thousand UK viewers tuned in to watch the season debut in March 2018, and in its first six months on air the show reached 1m kids, cementing its position as one of Nick Jr.’s Top 5 most popular launches.

Produced by 9 Story Media Group, the 52-part CG-animated action-adventure series follows the adventures of four rescue birds who are training to earn their wings at the Top Wing Academy on Big Swirl Island.

Master toy partner Hasbro will commence a roll-out of plush, vehicles, gadgets and figures from March 2019. Additional licensee deals have also been confirmed across the UK, spanning new categories and lines to create even more opportunities for fans of action, adventure and comedy. The captivating product ranges will enable pre-schoolers to join the Top Wing team and go on action-packed rescue missions of their own, with figures, mission-ready vehicles, play sets and plush inspired by the characters and adventures on the show.

Publishing and home entertainment products will be the first to launch in 2019, ahead of the season 2 launch in the autumn. Accessories will hit shelves in 2020.

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Hot Properties

Moon and Me Sutikki Moon and Me is a ground-breaking new pre-school series, created, written and produced by the multi award-winning English producer, writer, composer, puppeteer and actor Andrew Davenport. Andrew specialises in creating television and publishing for young children and is the original creator of the successful shows In the Night Garden and the original Teletubbies. The show is narrated by Nina Sosanya (W1A, Marcella, and Love Actually), who tells each story in a calm, fun and enchanting tone.

Moon and Me (50 x 22’) is a landmark BBC commission which launches on CBeebies in February as well as on NBC Universal Kids in the US, CCTV in China and ABC 4Kids in Australia. The show is tipped to break new ground in its technical, visual and conceptual ambition and aims to create a new benchmark in quality and integrity for its young global audience. Combining the latest production methods with traditional storytelling, comedy and music, all scenes are shot in camera without CGI, using a combination of puppetry and stop-motion to bring the colourful characters to life.

Inspired by well-loved tales of toys that come to life when nobody is looking, Moon and Me is the story of a special friendship between two characters from completely different worlds.

Each episode of Moon and Me begins with a child gently placing her beloved toys down to sleep in their Toy House. The child then leaves a special item for them to find, switches off the light and asks the Moon, shining through her window, to tell her a story. The Moon happily obliges, telling her how the magical doll, Pepi Nana, comes alive whenever the moonlight shines. Through their adventures and story-telling they often learn a lesson about life, and always return happy and tuckered out, ready for bed. The other lead character is Moon Baby, who is in charge of bedtime and looks after everyone as they sleep.

The licensing programme, which will launch in the UK later this year, has had a very positive reaction. In total, some 40+ Moon and Me licensees across all categories will release product right through to spring/summer 2021.

Master toy partner Hasbro is launching with an initial range of toys for autumn 2019. HTI Group, Jumbo Games, Orange Tree Toys and VTech are also on board, while Scholastic has worldwide publishing rights, launching autumn 2019.

With the unprecedented brand response to date, and the aforementioned best in class partnerships already in place, Moon and Me is well positioned to establish itself as a lead contender in both the national and global pre-school space for many years to come.

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Paw Patrol Nickelodeon Paw Patrol has captured the hearts of kids and families around the world. In just five years, audiences spanning 160 countries and 30 languages have fallen in love with the heroic pups which work together to protect the community.

Currently airing its fifth season in the UK on Nick Jr. and Series 4 on Channel 5’s Milkshake!, the Spin Master co-production is the UK’s No. 1 licensed pre-school property and a top three property across the UK toy market overall.

At retail, Paw Patrol has huge penetration with over 70 UK licensees across toys, apparel, publishing, accessories, home and FMCG categories. Its strong trajectory is set to continue in 2019 with the exploration of new lines for its consumer products programme.

The international live tour The Great Pirate Adventure is selling out venues across the UK and internationally. The heroic pups are also dominating the digital space, with Paw Patrol the No. 1 visited page on NickJr.co.uk with views increasing +26% YOY. Paw Patrol has also had a successful year in the gaming space. The launch of Paw Patrol Pawsome Missions in November 2017 has driven Paw Patrol gaming up by +56% YOY, and it consistently remains the No. 1 game on Nick.co.uk.

Looking ahead to 2019, Nickelodeon, alongside master toy partner Spin Master, is preparing to unveil even more UK retail activations. Fans will be spoilt for choice with a range of new products supporting all new themes, style guides and packaging, plus even more characters, outfits and locations, all of which will create further opportunities for new licensees.

The year will culminate with the launch of Season 6 in the autumn.Master toy partner Hasbro is launching with an initial range of toys for autumn 2019. HTI Group, Jumbo Games, Orange Tree Toys and VTech are also on board, while Scholastic has worldwide publishing rights, launching autumn 2019.

With the unprecedented brand response to date, and the aforementioned best in class partnerships already in place, Moon and Me is well positioned to establish itself as a lead contender in both the national and global pre-school space for many years to come.

For further details on our Batman 80th campaign please contact: Shane.Sweeney@Warnerbros.com

Hot Properties

PJ Masks Entertainment One eOne’s animated superhero TV property PJ Masks has swiftly become a leading pre-school property both on screen and on shelf. The show’s universal appeal has won audiences all around the world and broadcast ratings have soared thanks to a growing slate of FTA and VOD partners. Here in the UK, the show airs on Disney Junior and Tiny Pop, with series 2 currently airing on Disney Junior. Fans of the show can look forward to more adventures, as series 3 is currently in production and series 4 is also in development, ensuring a fresh pipeline of content through to 2021.

The global licensing programme has enjoyed strong sales led by Just Play’s master toy line, with products now available across a wide range of licensing categories in most markets. There are now 45 licensees in the UK across all major categories. Flair/Just Play is developing new vehicles and play sets, and is expanding the toy line to include villain-focused SKUs. There will also be heightened experiential events for PJ Masks in 2019, as eOne explores enhanced meet and greets and branded activities that build on the brand’s USP as an entry point to the world of superheroes. New and refreshed lines across key secondary toys, from puzzles to pocket money items, will provide new and existing fans alike with more heroic products to help them save the day.

Peppa Pig Entertainment One Entertainment One is gearing up for the 15th anniversary celebrations for Peppa Pig in the UK this year, which will be marked with a year-long calendar of activity. This will include a nationwide cinema release, live events, new content, brand partnerships, retail initiatives and product exclusives that will be united under the theme of Family Celebrations.

The brand is anchoring the anniversary celebrations with a nationwide cinema release.

Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun will be released in UK cinemas nationwide from April. Continuing to encourage little ones to interact and sing along, the format is designed as a gentle introduction to the cinema experience and will offer fans 10 new and never-before-broadcast episodes including a two-part festival special. eOne continues to expand the UK licensing programme with new and existing partners that are set to drive growth for the property in its anniversary year. Character Options’ 2019 range will be one of the strongest ever, with over 14 new lines planned for spring 2019. A line-up of exclusive brand partnerships and product ranges tied to the year-long theme of Family Celebrations will include party themed plush and figures from Character Options, an ‘Ultimate Collection’ of 50 books from Penguin, magazine anniversary specials from Redan, special edition figurines from Enseco, new partyware from Gemma and Fashion UK party themed apparel, with more partners soon to be announced.

To support the widespread Peppa Pig activity, eOne has made a longstanding commitment to new content. New episodes began airing in 2017 and will continue through to winter 2022.

This investment will sustain success, inspire new creative style guides and drive longevity to ensure the brand remains fresh for each new generation of fans.

Ricky Zoom Entertainment One Ricky Zoom, eOne’s all new pre-school show, is set to launch globally from spring/summer 2019. From the producers of PJ Masks, Ricky Zoom is a CGI action comedy adventure series that follows the adventures of Ricky, a little red rescue bike who shares his experiences with his loyal Bike Buddies Loop, Scootio and DJ. Together they race around the sports track, try new stunts at the park and zoom into every adventure.

Broadcasters are lining up to air the show across multiple territories with Gulli in France, RAI in Italy and Discovery Kids in Latin America already on board. More broadcasters are soon to be announced. Building on the solid broadcast platform, eOne is now assembling the consumer products programme and has recently appointed leading children’s toy manufacturer, Tomy International, as global master toy partner. Products will launch from autumn/winter 2019.

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FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD and HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. WB SHIELD: © & ™ WBEI. WIZARDING WORLD trademark and logo © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18)

Hot Properties

Kids & Families Shane the Chef Hoho Entertainment

Shane the Chef, a 52 x 11’ pre-school series targeting kids aged 4-6 years old, launched in April 2018, supported by a strong digital advertising campaign in 38 shopping malls nationwide.

Each episode follows Shane, an ambitious, energetic chef, and his daughter Izzy, who together run a restaurant in the town of Munchington. For Shane, every day is a new adventure, with each episode focusing on his high energy exploits and passion for food. Because he's a chef, Shane's firm belief is that "fresh is best” when it comes to the food he cooks. The programme also emphasises the importance of local foods; fresh vegetables are sourced from Maggie's farm, while Sam Spratt catches fish fresh from the sea.

The series was commissioned by UK broadcaster Channel 5, for the children’s channel Milkshake!, and has been performing strongly since its launch. Shane has driven Channel 5 to rank as the No. 1 TV channel for Kids 4-15 in its slot since its launch in April, through to September. The show has reached 3.8m viewers so far, including 1.4m kids, and has grown the shares in its broadcast slot for Adults 16-34 (+20%), Kids 4-15 (+2%) and Boys (+27%) versus the previous six months (source: BARB). Feedback received from fans of Shane the Chef through Hoho’s social media channels also indicates that the series is engaging well with its audience, while data shows that the series has broad appeal for both boys and girls, with audience figures showing an equal male/female split.

The series offers a wide range of toy opportunities encompassing multiple themes and play patterns. Opportunities within the toy category for licensors cover figures, plus play sets based upon key locations and vehicles from the series - restaurant, kitchen, mobile market, deli, windmill, lighthouse, school and Shane’s scooter. The property also translates well to larger role-play products and cooking gadgets such as blenders, yoghurt makers, bread makers or popcorn makers alongside pretend play kitchens and market stalls. The strong cooking theme of the show will also appeal to fans of dough play, with potential for sets based upon themes such as pizza, pasta, and bread baking, plus there will be opportunities aplenty for licensed Shane the Chef games and puzzles.

Angry Birds Rovio Rovio activity will be driven this year by the late-scheduled Q4 2019 theatrical release of The Angry Birds Movie 2, the anticipated sequel to Rovio’s 2016 cinematic debut The Angry Birds Movie, which made over $352m (around £270m) at the global box office.

Rovio is also developing an intensive, long-term and diverse slate of entertainment projects for global audiences. The key highlights include a new long-form animated series which will debut in 2020, an unscripted competition TV series, new live stage shows, location-based entertainment projects, and original live-action and animated content for the highly successful Angry Birds YouTube channel, which has over 2.5m subscribers and a monthly viewership of nearly 200m minutes. In June 2018, Rovio expanded its portfolio of activity parks with the grand opening of its biggest theme park yet, Angry Birds World, situated in the heart of Doha, Qatar. The indoor section of the park opened last summer, while the outdoor area opened in Q4. The park covers 17,000 square metres of floor space, and is home to numerous on-site retail points selling a wide range of Rovio toys and branded products.

Working alongside Resolution Games, Rovio has released a mixed reality (MR) game for Magic Leap One Creator Edition - Angry Birds FPS: First Person Slingshot. The game lets players see realistic animated characters and objects overlaid onto their actual environment, bringing Angry Birds to life like never before, right in users' homes.

To date, the Angry Birds family of games has garnered over 4b downloads since launching back in 2009. Throughout 2019, Rovio will continue its games event and partnership programme, developing bespoke in-game brand integrations.

Previous partnerships include Imagine Dragons, 2018 NFL Super Bowl, Iron Maiden and Everton Football Club.

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Winx Club Rainbow Spa Winx Club is the evergreen classic that follows the adventures of a group of young fairies as they combine school life with battling against the forces of evil. The show mixes action and adventure with comedy, and appeals to girls from four years old to tweens/teens. The brand first debuted in 2004 and now boasts 182 episodes, four TV movies and three theatrical releases. Series 8 - featuring 26 brand new episodes - will premiere at the beginning of this year to celebrate 15 years since the launch of the brand. The 15th anniversary will also see Rainbow launch a global marketing plan, featuring lots of engaging activities that will reach out to the millions of Winx fans across the world and involve the brand’s licensing partners.

Licensing available from Warner Bros. Consumer Products For more information contact: Shane.sweeney@Warnerbros.com Toy World - Friends Half Page .indd 1

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Licensing Available from Warner Bros. Consumer Products For more information contact: Shane.Sweeney@Warnerbros.com Toy World - Horror Half Page .indd 1

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Hot Properties

Smooshy Mushy Lisle Licensing Smooshy Mushy launched in the UK towards the end of December 2017 in the UK as one of the fastest growing girls’ licences.

It has continued to appear in the top New UK Properties on NPD during its launch year with high hopes for 2019.

Since the toy launch, licensees in categories such as apparel, BTS, lunch bags, arts & crafts, games & puzzles and plush have been appointed.

In 2019, Smooshy Mushy will continue to expand in the toy space, beyond existing foam and squishy products.

How To Train Your Dragon Universal DreamWorks

Subway Surfers Sybo Games Boasting over 2.1b downloads in its six-year history, Sybo Games’ Subway Surfers was named the most downloaded game in Google Play's 10-year history, the first game to cross one billion downloads and the most downloaded endless runner game in the App Store's history.

Every month, Subway Surfers lands in a new city or country, and key characters have travelled to more than 43 destinations to date. Players take on the role of graffititagging protagonist Jake or one of his many friends. They run from the inspector and his dog through the subway systems of famous cities around the world, collecting coins and dodging oncoming trains.

In 2018, Subway Surfers: The Animated Series premiered, a 10 x 4 minute-series, scripted by Brent Friedman (Star Wars Rebels, Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and produced by Daytime Emmy award-winning producer Sander Schwartz (The Batman, Justice League, Scooby Doo). The series takes fans further into the universe, as they see their favourite characters navigate both the joys and dilemmas of teenage life. A long-form series is slated for 2019.

Subsurf is the consumer and lifestyle arm of the mobile game phenomenon, and aims to emulate the authentic, street-smart, edgy youth culture, skate music and dance ethos of Subway Surfers. Targeting Gen-Y & Gen-Z fans, the Subsurf programme has over 10 style guides, each celebrating the authenticity of the Original Street Art brand. The style is very much part of the brand and is represented in all aspects.

Subway Surfers plays on a global stage with a massive presence in territories including the United States, Latin America, United Kingdom, Germany, Benelux, Latin Europe (Portugal, Spain, France, Italy) and Russia, among others.

Sybo seeks partners that think locally for its market, but also bridge the gap and recognise the common pattern that fans and audiences embrace, no matter the language or culture.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, the third instalment in the movie series based on the best-selling books by Cressida Cowell, will make its theatrical debut in February, nine years after the first movie was screened in cinemas.

The franchise has amassed global box office revenues of more than $1b, and has enjoyed a successful transfer to TV with the Dragons: Race to the Edge animated series showing on CBBC, Netflix and other channels across the globe. How To Train Your Dragon 3 is also the first DreamWorks movie to be released since the acquisition of DreamWorks Animation by Universal, and is therefore the first feature film to benefit from the promotional and marketing expertise of the studios.

Licensees launched toys onto the market in time for the 2018 festive gifting season.

Posh Paws, the official plush partner, has released a range of characters including Toothless, Hookfang, Stormfly, Barf and Belch as well as the new Light Fury, whom fans will meet in the upcoming film. As an added extra, the medium and large plush will come with glow-in-the dark features, including their wings and eyes. Playmobil is also on board with a new range to coincide with the launch of the movie in February. Debuting at retail in August 2017, the company’s initial offering was well received, and new toy lines launched in Q1 2018.

Now chief and ruler of Berk alongside Astrid, Hiccup has created a gloriously chaotic dragon utopia. When the sudden appearance of female Light Fury coincides with the darkest threat their village has ever faced, Hiccup and Toothless must leave the only home they’ve known and journey to a hidden world thought only to exist in myth. As their true destinies are revealed, dragon and rider will fight together to protect everything they’ve grown to treasure. Director Dean DeBlois returns alongside the all-star cast, which includes Cate Blanchett, T J Miller and Kristen Wiig.

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Hot Properties

Pokémon The Pokémon Company Pokémon is gearing up for yet another landmark year in 2019, with anticipation growing for the release of the first-ever Pokémon live action movie next May. The star-studded Pokémon: Detective Pikachu looks set to raise the brand’s profile even higher, with tremendous interest already – the first official trailer garnered 140m global views in the 24 hours after its launch.

This will stimulate major growth not just from movierelated products, but other licensed products too: puzzles with Ravensburger, construction toys with Mattel and Nanoblocks, special edition Monopoly from Winning Moves, electronics with OTL and TeknoFun, and Party Goods with Amscan and Rubie’s.

Meanwhile, the hugely popular Trading Card Game introduces a new mechanic, Tag Team, which pairs two Pokémon together on one card, in Pokémon: Sun & Moon – Team Up, the latest expansion set to launch on 1st February. In addition, there will be a supporting movie tie-in TCG expansion.

Later in the year, the next introduction to Pokémon’s popular core role-play game series, which was teased last year at E3, arrives on Nintendo Switch for the first time.

The release of Nintendo Switch exclusive titles Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! last November helped make Pokémon one of the most successful video game franchises of all time, with more than 324m games sold worldwide. Designed to bring new players into the VG universe, while also appealing to core fans, the new titles offer players the ability to connect to their Pokémon GO and transfer Pokémon between the two platforms. The innovative, portable new Poké Ball Plus controller can also be used across both platforms, either as a Joy-Con type controller or on a compatible smartphone.

The exciting new partnership with Wicked Cool Toys made an award-winning start, with its first master toy range earning the Toy Fair Editor’s Choice Award.

The most detailed Pokémon toy range yet, it has now rolled out internationally and launches an expanded range in 2019, including movie tie-in products with added retail support.

2018 saw successful retail promotions in major stores including Selfridges and Hamleys, and Pokémon is seeking to expand this further throughout 2019, working on a strong retail programme with toy specialists and mass market retailers in the UK and across Europe.

With new licensed product releases and more exciting partnerships and collaborations coming, 2019 is set to be another big year for Pokémon.

Sonic the Hedgehog Sega Europe It’s set to be a big year for Sonic as he hits the silver screen in Sonic the Hedgehog, a live-action theatrical release from the filmmakers behind Deadpool and The Fast and the Furious.

On the 21st May, on Xbox One, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC, Sonic will be back behind the wheel in Team Sonic Racing.

Developed by award-winning studio Sumo Digital, Team Sonic Racing is the ultimate arcade and fast-paced competitive style racing experience, featuring players’ favourite characters and environments from across the Sonic Universe. Fans can race together and win together in online multiplayer or local co-op mode, utilising the dynamic team mechanics and vehicle customisation features to dash across the finish line.

Sega Europe has tied up a number of licensing deals for kids and adults Classic and Modern Sonic themed apparel. Sun City has renewed in France and overseas French region, while Licensee Factory is a new partner for Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

Poetic Brands and Global Brands Group have renewed their licences, which also include Sega’s retro games and consoles covering the UK and European Markets respectively.

Elsewhere, Half Moon Bay successfully launched its range of Classic Sonic gift and novelty products in Q4 2018, and The Hut Group has signed up to sell apparel, accessories, homeware, gift and novelty merchandise across its portfolio of online stores for Classic and Modern Sonic, Total War, Football Manager and Sega Retro IP. Sega Europe’s award-winning Brand Licensing team will be attending the London Toy Fair and the Nuremberg Toy Fair in January, and will be bringing with it an engaging line-up of Sonic the Hedgehog and Sega licensed products.

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Hot Properties

Thunderbirds Are Go ITV Studios Global Entertainment Season 3 of the popular action TV series Thunderbirds Are Go continues this year in the UK, with multiple markets to follow. The first nine episodes of Season 3 reached 1.4m kids in the first run in the UK, with the broadcast platform rollout in 2019 set to support the launch of the new toy line in autumn/winter. The line consists of collectibles, action figures and vehicles which encourage imaginative rescue role-play, as well as interaction between the characters and vehicles.

Robozuna ITV Studios Global Entertainment The action-packed series Robozuna launched in the UK on CITV at the end of 2018 and on Netflix globally outside of the UK, with the animation becoming available to stream on Netflix in the UK from this month. In this kids adventure series, 14-yearold Ariston and his robot Mangle join a team of robot gladiators known as Combatabots whilst fighting to free their oppressed nation from the evil Corvus Imperium.

In addition to linear and VOD broadcasts, short-form content featuring influencer Ali-A is launching on YouTube Kids in January, and a gaming app in partnership with award-winning Kuato Studios is available. Global social media influencers Ethan Gamer and Ali-A both star in the series and are involved on an ongoing basis in promotion, as well as creating unique online content to supplement the series. The toy line is planned for launch spring/summer, with Bandai on board as UK distributor, and Basic Fun! in the US.

SpongeBob SquarePants Nickelodeon Nickelodeon prepares to celebrate SpongeBob SquarePants’ 20th anniversary in 2019. An international pop culture icon, the show airs in more than 208 countries and 55 languages, making him a character with worldwide and cross-generational appeal. SpongeBob is the No. 2 show on Nicktoons in the UK with children aged 4-15, after Horrid Henry.

Having generated millions of UK sales to-date, SpongeBob remains a powerhouse brand, spanning all categories and lines including toys, video games, publishing, apparel, accessories and homeware.

The brand has been supported with theatrical releases such as The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie and Sponge Out of Water, as well as by high profile fashion collaborations. A limited edition SpongeBob Gold range, created by leading UK designers, was launched at London Fashion Week, and a Vault by Vans apparel and footwear collection has also been produced.

Nickelodeon will mark SpongeBob’s 20th anniversary with a host of activities including on-air stunts, new retail and experiential activations, a dedicated marketing campaign, and digital product launches including a new app, a podcast and YouTube series.

Master toy partner, Alpha, will launch a new line of toys, collectibles, plush, novelties and more, appealing to kids, teens and millennials.

A further 60+ UK licensee deals are fuelling excitement ahead of the March launch of season 12 on Nicktoons. This activity will build up to the big screen release of SpongeBob SquarePants 3, which is launching in summer 2020.

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Shane the Chef © Hoho Entertainment Ltd

For more information please contact: Helen Howells Joint Managing Director helen.howells@hohoentertainment.com t• +44 (0) 207 682 3154 w• www.hohoentertainment.com

Hot Properties

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Nickelodeon Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is the latest re-imagining of the classic property, with a new look, new weapons, new powers, new villains and new voices. However, the four same enduring themes remain; brotherhood, heroism, action and humour.

The new series had its UK debut in September 2018 on Channel 5’s Milkshake and Nicktoons, following a sneak peek Nickelodeon VOD launch on Sky. The series follows the Turtles as they encounter a mystical world beneath the streets of New York. With reinvention rooted deep within its DNA, the 2D series embraces a fresh look and feel, including a brighter contemporary style, as well as new aspects of character development.

Between Nicktoons and Channel 5, the series has already reached more than 2.8m fans, with premieres on Channel 5 averaging 53.2k kids, +7% vs the FY18 slot average.

Master toy partner Flair launched the toy range in October 2018, including action figures, vehicles, play sets and role-play, all supported by Nickelodeon with crowd-pleasing activations in collaboration with leading high street retailers.

Viacom Nickelodeon Consumer Products (VNCP) staged a raft of retail activity including a costume character appearance debut at Hamleys, an in-store Which Turtle are you? quiz at The Entertainer and an unboxing video with Diversity’s Perri in collaboration with Smyths.

This year will see even more episodes, retail activations and product ranges spanning apparel, publishing, dress-up, arts and craft, stationery, FMCG and health and beauty, all ahead of the launch of Season 2.

Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed Beano Studios Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed is a CGI action-adventure series which first aired in 2017.

Starring Beano’s iconic and dynamic duo, it became the highest rated show on the UK’s BBC at launch, as well as the highest rated show across all kids’ TV. The series’ success continued, as it became the Top 10 show for kids across all channels (including network family shows such as Strictly Come Dancing and The X Factor etc.) and the No. 1 show on CBBC for first three weeks of transmission, with a 26% average share.

The series stars Dennis, a kid with an extraordinary imagination, awesome skills and a fearless attitude. He is inseparable from Gnasher, a stray dog adopted by Dennis and now his faithful sidekick. They are joined by their irrepressible and adventurous friends Rubi and JJ, plus Pieface and his pet potato, Paul. Together they cook up crazy plans, get into all sorts of scrapes, and take on every challenge going, no matter how big.

Last year saw Dennis travel the globe as the series aired on the world-leading free-to-air public service broadcasters Super RTL in Germany, ABC in Australia, SIC in Portugal and YLE in Finland. Further international deals were also announced for Beano Studios’ first landmark TV production. These included TVE in Spain, HSCC 8 in Israel and France Télévísion.

Fans of Dennis and Gnasher are also able to play DGU themed games and access further content on Beano.com; the award-winning digital network is the fastest growing UK digital destination with a reach of 5m.

Superzings Lisle Licensing The collectibles brand SuperZings saw record sales in 2018. Five Superzings products are listed in the latest YTD NPD data for the Top 20 New Items (action figures), with all five appearing within the 10 highest positions.

Over 7m units were sold in the UK in 2018. Series 2 SuperZing sales outperformed Series 1 by 125%, driven by fans trying to find the new and elusive Professor K. Series 3 is set to launch in 2019, followed by partnerships with licensees for magazines and games in the UK.

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FOR LICENSING OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT:

EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA: Jason Rice Email: jason.rice@sega.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 208 996 4568 www.sonicthehedgehog.com/uk

@Sonic

US, CANADA & LATIN AMERICA: Anoulay Tsai Email: anoulay.tsai@segaamerica.com Tel: +1 (747) 400 2410, ext.203 @sonic_hedgehog

/sonicthehedgehog

/sonic

REST OF THE WORLD: Shigefumi Tanzawa Email: shigefumi.tanzawa@sega.com Tel: +81 3 6871 7122

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©SEGA

Hot Properties

Boat Rocker Media The Next Step Following a phenomenally successful Series 6 launch in the summer, The Next Step consistently drives huge ratings for CBBC, and Boat Rocker Rights UK is actively talking to prospective partners across apparel, accessories publishing and promotional partnerships.

Soft’n Slo Squishies Bitz & Bob Fun and inventive STEAM-inspired animation Bitz & Bob, a ratings hit on CBeebies, has just launched internationally.

Boat Rocker is actively seeking partners across a range of categories including STEM toys, arts & crafts, games & puzzles, publishing and more.

The latest craze in slow rising collectible toys from Character Options, Soft’n Slo Squishies has enjoyed a sensational start since last February’s launch. Boat Rocker is actively talking to partners and retailers across a wide range of categories to extend the brand in the UK and has just secured a deal with DC Thomson’s Sweet magazine, aimed at girls aged 7 -11, to create engaging and humorous activity pages around the brand.

Trulli Tales After recently signing a deal with Congedo CulturArte S.r.l. Boat Rocker Rights will represent the award-winning animated children’s series. Already airing on Disney Jr and set to launch on Tiny Pop in the new year, this pre-school show blends magic and cooking. A series which extends naturally into consumer products, existing European licensing deals include toys from Giochi Preziosi (distributed by Flair in the UK), educational toys from Clementoni and stickers and magazines from Panini (Italy). The toy line launches at retail from autumn/winter 2019.

Mysticons

Danger Mouse

Master toy partner Playmates recently launched its new line in North America and UK distribution rights are held by Flair;

The world’s greatest secret agent, Danger Mouse, continues to attract exciting partnerships and brand extensions, including the recent critically acclaimed Danger Games on Nintendo Switch.

Nelvana brands As well as managing its own portfolio of brands, Boat Rocker Rights also represents leading Nelvana brands in the UK and Eire. Owned by Corus Entertainment, Nelvana is one of the world's leading international producers and distributors of children's animated content, including; Ranger Rob, a preschool animated adventure series proving enormously popular since its launch on Tiny Pop in March.

Boat Rocker Rights is currently working with master toy partner ID Toys and talking to UK distributors.

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Feature

Retailer of the Year

BTHA Toy Retailer of the Year finalists

The British Toy & Hobby Association has announced the finalists for the Toy Retailer of the Year Awards 2018.

Nominations were invited from BTHA members’ sales directors, toy agents and national account directors, as well as toy retailers which were also invited to self-nominate. Shortlisting was done by a panel of 15 people from across the industry members of the BTHA Council, strategically based toy agents, sales and national account directors from around the UK and a representative from the leading toy trade magazine, Toy World.

The winners of the prestigious Toy Retailer Awards will be announced at the annual Toy Industry Awards held at Olympia, London on Tuesday 22nd January 2019. The gala event, which takes place on the first evening of Toy Fair, is organised by the BTHA with the Toy Retailers Association (TRA), which will also present the Toy and Supplier Awards 2018 on the same evening.

The shortlist is as follows:

Independent Toy Retailer of the Year (single store) Banba Toymaster, Dublin, Ireland Originally set up in Dublin City in 1944 as a second hand book shop, Banba joined the Toymaster group in 1985 and became Banba Toymaster. The retailer moved into its current premises on Mary Street, Dublin, in 1991. The 12,000 sq. foot store is set across two floors, and prides itself on the knowledge of its staff and the customer service provided. Banba currently has 15 staff in total, nine of whom have been employed by the retailer for over 10 years. The store has over 15,000 SKUs in stock at any one time, and offers a huge range of jigsaws, model kits, board games and big name brands.

Thomas Moore Toymaster, Exeter, Devon Having traded from the same building for over 100 years - making it Exeter’s longest running business – Thomas Moore strives to keep itself relevant to the local community with an emphasis on having fun. Instore theatre is used to create eye-catching and engaging displays for its consumers, and the shop also has a dedicated play area for children. As one of the biggest independent Lego accounts in the country, the shop boasts five life size statues including Chewbacca and The Joker, a Lego play table, interactive displays, Lego TVs and a year-round Lego window.

T & G Allan, Morpeth, Northumberland T&G Allan has been selling toys for 50 years, offering a wide selection of products suitable from birth including brands such as Lego, Playmobil, Schleich and Sylvanian Families. This year the store installed a new Schleich POS featuring a huge lion, which has become a firm favourite with visitors to the store. T&G Allan operates a customer loyalty card scheme to encourage repeat footfall and sales, and offers a traditional toy store experience that allows parents and children to stay a while in-store and enjoy playing together.

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Retailer of the Year

Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (2 - 29 stores) Toytown In 2018, Toytown aimed to cement its position as a destination retailer for toys, opening five new stores and upping its investment in the overall consumer experience. Having have worked hard on its staff knowledge and customer service, Toytown is ensuring that as the business grows, its level of service increases to match. The retailer has also been able to move into multiple ex-Toys R Us units and is proud to have hired a number of the staff from these to prevent people from becoming unemployed.

Toy Barnhaus Formed nearly 10 years ago, following the demise of Woolworths, where the owners worked, Toy Barnhaus now operates eight stores, all in the southeast of England. The Toy Barnhaus Price Promise, which has been running for over two years, offers customers peace of mind that the retailer will match any other high street price. Playing a prominent role in the toy industry, co-founders Stephen and Mark have written a column in Toy World Magazine for over six years, providing an insight into how they run the business.

East Midland Toy Company Whilst all EMTC stores are ambassadors for the Toymaster brand, each is unique and retains a strong feeling of ‘local toy shop’. Regular customers are the backbone of the business, and staff endeavour to listen to, and react to, their needs and wishes, as well as surprising them along the way. Providing a clean and fresh retail experience, a roll-out of LED lighting and high tech infra-red heating has ensured comfortable and bright stores where parents and children can feel at ease.

Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (30 stores or more) The Entertainer The Entertainer was founded in 1981 in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, by Gary and Catherine Grant, and is today the largest family-owned toy retailer in the UK with 158 stores. Recognised for its charitable giving, each year The Entertainer tithes 10% of its net annual profit to charity. It’s also an active member of Pennies, the digital upgrade of the traditional charity box, which enables customers to donate a few pence to charity at the till when paying by card. In addition, 49% of its employees give to charity through the Payroll Giving scheme and over £750,000 has now been raised through the scheme since it was launched seven years ago.

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Retailer of the Year Smyths As the fastest growing toy retailer in the UK and Ireland, Smyths Toys Superstores is a primary example of how a top toy company maintains a high level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, while simultaneously creating an outstanding shopping environment. With 116 stores now open and more scheduled to open in 2019, Smyths Toys Superstores is now available throughout the UK & Ireland, offering products sourced from all over the world at competitive prices. From educational toys for all ages to the latest robots and drones, plus the latest collectibles, bikes and scooters, and outdoor and baby products, Smyths Toys Superstores aims to go above and beyond to offer the widest range possible

General Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year Asda Asda offers a multi-channel seamless shopping experience. To avoid queuing to pay a cashier, customers can now buy toys much quicker on their mobiles and pick up at their convenience with the in store click-and-collect service at George and Asda stores. The Asda toy offering includes top rated brands promoting pre-school, girls’ and boys’ toys while focusing on key learning strategies such as imaginative play. George Home wooden toys offer a wide range of options including kitchens, dolls houses and accessory sets.

Tesco Toys were ever-present in Tesco promotions last year, reflected in promotional ends at the front of stores, the retailer’s biggest ever toy sale, and two toy-specific catalogues; the first to support its October half price toy sale, and the second highlighting the range of toys in its larger stores at Christmas. With customer satisfaction at the fore, Tesco has further developed its Carousel range into outdoor toys and games and placed an increased focus on lower price points with its top toys. In addition, the retailer has been working closely on its offerings for bigger kids with brands such as Funko and has positioned itself as a retailer of choice for World Cup Stickers.

Sainsbury’s Argos Toys is a key category for Sainsbury’s Argos and one that the whole business is passionate about. Since combining with Sainsbury’s, Argos continues to make it as easy as possible for customers to collect from stores. Argos now has over 1,200 store ‘touch points’ including standalones, collection points and over 260 concessions inside Sainsbury’s stores. In keeping with Argos’ aim to be the No. 1 choice for toys, the retailer announced its Top Toys for 2018 list before anyone else, and to celebrate its 45th anniversary an exhibition (Argos – 45 Years of Toys) was held at the Tottenham Court Road store.

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Retailer of the Year

Department Store Toy Retailer of the Year Morleys Stores Morleys Stores has eight full-line department stores, with permanent toy departments in each. The departments range from 800 to 3000 sq. feet and offer a wide selection of toys tailored to each location. In all its stores the retailer aspires to offer a product range and shopping experience that will capture both kids’ and families’ hearts, open their minds and unlock their potential through play. Morley’s constantly analyses sales, but also uses real feedback from customers and staff to ensure that the range selected and merchandised is the best it can offer.

W J Daniel & Co, Windsor The Toy Kingdom, which covers 10,000 sq. feet, is the heart of this family run, independent department store. In its newest addition to the department The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - the store has levitating broomsticks, flying golden snitches and talking Sorting Hats. The Toy Kingdom is dedicated to creating magical experiences for children. Hosting play events and demonstrations each weekend, with popular brands such as Brio, Beaker Creatures and more, the store welcomes suggestions from both its toy team and customers to ensure it continually evolves and improves.

Boswell & Co, Oxford Boswells is one of the oldest department stores in the world, with trading success based on heritage, endeavour, resilience, mindfulness and realism. Its toy department is based on traditional toy lines which offer customers value, heritage, comfort and familiarity, and has subsequently become renowned for quality, choice and excitement. All its staff offer customers a high level of product knowledge. Boswell’s attention to detail has enabled the store to prosper where others falter, and this heritage will continue to provide the toy industry with a retail outlet that suppliers can be proud of.

Online Toy Retailer of the Year Smyths

The Entertainer

Shop Direct

Smyths Toys’ ‘audience first’ focus on its digital platforms is reflected in its strong platform growth and performance on Google Shopping, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and recently PopJam. The retailer’s email alerts, which are distributed to its customer database, have a high open rate proving they are engaging and relevant. Click and collect is also available within one hour, while a range of free delivery and next day delivery options ensures consumers can shop whichever way they want.

The Entertainer’s new website offers a more refined consumer journey for faster shopping, improved performance to support increasingly high levels of traffic - especially during peak seasons such as Christmas - and a new predictive search engine for ease when locating products. With almost 80% of The Entertainer’s web traffic coming from mobile users, the website has also been designed with a mobilefirst approach to enhance browsing on tablets and phones.

The toy category has become a real focus for the Shop Direct business over the last few years, and in 2018 the company was tasked with growing both category demand and awareness within a challenging retail landscape.

Last year saw a significant investment from the business to support the toy category, while sponsorship of Milkshake on Channel 5, a toy-specific marketing campaign including TV adverts for both Very and Littlewoods and a renewed focus on the on-site journey, have positioned Shop Direct as a leader in toy retail.

In addition, the updated website now closely reflects the branding found in store and allows shoppers to view products by the same categories such as action toys and figures, dolls and soft toys, and arts and creative play.

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Nuremberg Toy Fair

Hear from the experts In our December issue, we took a look at what visitors to the 70th anniversary edition of Spielwarenmesse could look forward to seeing between 30th January - 3rd February. Since then, the show organisers have revealed yet more information about the 2019 fair. Rachael Simpson-Jones brings you up to speed on the latest news from behind the scenes.

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very day between 1pm - 3pm, experts at the Toy Business Forum in Hall 3A will show independent retailers and buyers how to equip themselves for changing markets. Each day is devoted to a different topic area, with the presentations spotlighting the trends at the Spielwarenmesse bringing each day to a close.

The presentations start on Wednesday with a focus on trends in the toy industry and retail trade. Recognising the right trends at the right time is key to success, and so two experts from the USA will take a closer look at this topic; toy trend expert Reyne Rice will shed a light on the latest toys and technical toys, while Richard Gottlieb (CEO of Global Toy Experts) will outline the global challenges facing the toy industry. Additionally, Frank Rehme (gmvteam GmbH) will present retail trends from different countries.

On Thursday, attention will turn to the future of bricks & mortar retailers in the era of digitalisation and online trade. Offering plenty of inspiration, speakers will include Christian Prill, Klaus-Dieter Koch, Claudia Rivinius and Kimberly Mosley, president of ASTRA (American Specialty Toy Retailing Association).

On Friday, Axel Dammler of iconkids & youth GmbH will look at how children play around the world, while Florian Klaus of K&A Brand Research AG, will discuss the generational difference between parents and grandparents making toy purchases. Finally, Karen Klessinger of Berlin-based Dan Pearlman will explain how retailers in the digital age can benefit from their customers in two different ways.

The new LicenseTalks programme, an addition to the Toy Business Forum for 2019, will offer attendees to Spielwarenmesse a deeper look at the licensing industry. LicenseTalks expert panels are scheduled to take place at the Toy Business Forum in Hall 3A on the first three days of the fair. From 10.30am- 11.30am every day, specialists from the licensing industry will speak about current themes and unveil global trends. On Wednesday, leading voices from the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) will shed light on licensing basics and provide a market overview. A day later, the spotlight will fall on 'Toys, Technology and Licensing', with Sam Ferguson, VP global licensing at Jazwares, among the speakers.

Friday’s focus will be on 'The Influence of Entertainment in the Toy Industry', featuring

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Sebastian Seppelt (senior manager licensing GSA, Nickelodeon/Viacom Consumer Products), Joachim Knoedler (managing director Central Europe, CPLG) and Werner Lenzner (manager licensing and strategic development, Simba Dickie Group). The LicenseTalks are supported by LIMA and License Global Magazine.

Providing licensors and licensees with a central point of contact, LIMA will once again have its own stand at the Spielwarenmesse in the foyer of Hall 12.0. Moreover, LIMA’s members will have the opportunity to present their latest licences to selected business contacts in the exclusive setting of the LicensePreview.

The previews take place in separate, suitably equipped rooms at the exhibition centre. Major studios such as NBC Universal and Nickelodeon have already booked slots.

Visitors can use the LicenseGuide to locate the licensed products on show both quickly and easily. Available from 13th December from the official website (www.spielwarenmesse.de), the guide contains information about exhibitors with licensing portfolios, their products and location at the fair.

Returning for 2019, the PressPreview gives international journalists, bloggers and buyers

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Nuremberg Toy Fair

the opportunity to be among the first to view and experience product premieres and highlights.

The event traditionally takes place at NCC Ost the day before the trade fair officially opens.

Kicking off at 8.55am with an entertaining musical spectacle in the Glass Gallery by the Press Centre, the participating companies will then meet for a group photo with Ernst Kick, CEO Spielwarenmesse eG. Back at their stands, the exhibitors will then present their products for maximum media effect. The show is supported by a variety of different promotions for trying out products, as well as by child models, celebrities and show-floor performers.

Big players in the German toy industry will be turning out alongside their international counterparts and numerous start-ups.

Nickelodeon and Jazwares are joining forces with TV chef Alexander Herrmann, actor Christian Tramitz and YouTuber Freshtorge to announce the launch of Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in Germany, Austria and Switzerland,

while the Spielwarenmesse is bringing to life the three latest trends – Ready, Steady, Play!, The WOW Effect and Toys 4 Kidults – with the help of corresponding products.

Speed Interviews are also among the allnew features at the PressPreview. During short time slots, company owners and marketing directors can present their innovations to media representatives who are new to the industry. Separate rooms will be set aside for these exclusive presentations and their selected participants; journalists and bloggers interested in taking part are requested to register in advance of the event at presse@spielwarenmesse. de.

In addition, five quiet zones or VisitorLounges will be dotted around the exhibition centre for the first time, equipped with free water dispensers and charging stations. On Thursday, the Spielwarenmesse is hosting the ToyFestival as a major programme highlight, and on Saturday, visitors can enjoy a spectacular fireworks display

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over a mug of free mulled wine. The on-site services are rounded off by a wide variety of catering options.

Finally, for those looking to unwind after a day on the show floor, the official 2019 ToyCocktail has been announced. For the past 15 years, as part of the ToyCity initiative, Spielwarenmesse has invited Nuremberg’s bars to participate in the ToyCocktail Competition, and to create a cocktail for the international visitors to the trade fair.

The winner, the appropriately red Pill-toy-rika! from Gasthaus Pillhofer, will be served during the Spielwarenmesse at all nine participating bars around the city - Admiral Filmpalast Skybar, Australian Bar & Kitchen, Bar Europa, die rote Bar, Enchilada Nürnberg, Gasthaus Pillhofer, Gelbes Haus, PARKS, and Seagull (at the Mövenpick Hotel Nürnberg).

Over the following pages, we take a look at what leading toy and game manufacturers will be showcasing at the 2019 event.

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Chicco

Active duty Toy World spoke to Chicco about the company’s exciting new ranges for 2019. With an emphasis on active play, involving both sporting and musical themes, the new introductions are expected to build further on the company’s ongoing success.

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hicco’s pre-school offering has continued to perform successfully, thanks to the rising popularity of the educational toy sector. Last year allowed us to strengthen our position within the UK marketplace, and we rounded off 2018 on an incredible high. This was largely attributed to impressive sales of our core preschool active play range, including the best-selling Goal League football toy and the introduction of a new range. We also saw great success with our educational toys, thanks to their multi-functional capabilities.

In 2019, we will be building on our achievements within the toy sector with a number of exciting new launches that not only help to develop cognitive skills but also social and interaction skills.

Following the popularity of our 2018 Summer of Sport campaign, we have extended our Fit n Fun offering to include even more of Britain’s best-loved games. All the toys in the range have been designed for both indoor and outdoor use to encourage active joint play, with friends or all the family.

Encouraging social and cognitive skills through classic sporting games, our new Dribbling Goal League incorporates all the features of our classic Goal League, with enhancements to develop key skills, plus additional levels of increased difficulty.

Also new to the range is Happy Darts, which joins

existing basketball, hopscotch and golf games, all supporting vital development through active play. At Chicco, we place great emphasis on how playtime can help with little ones’ education and progress - and understand the important role these toys play.

Expanding on our range of educational toys that encourage learning through play, we’ve recently launched our new Happy Music range. The range takes inspiration from a number of traditional musical instruments to help develop cognitive skills and provide stimulation. Piano DJ Mixi features two different settings – fun mode and play mode – as well as a realistic deck with LED light panels. With four musical styles and eight melodies, children can add in animated sounds including scratch sound effects and musical notes to create their own song.

Songy the Singer is the perfect singing partner and comes with its own disco effect flashing LED lights, four musical genres and a total of eight different songs to choose from.

Last year we also embarked on an exclusive high-profile Ferrari licensing partnership with the launch of the new Ferrari RC super-fast remotecontrol car. It has proved to be really popular with budding car enthusiasts and Formula 1 fans alike, and we are delighted to announce that we are extending the Ferrari licensing partnership to our popular balance bike range in 2019.

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With so many exciting new launches planned for the upcoming year, it’s important for us to ensure we are maximising key opportunities to promote our new ranges to both parents and suppliers.

Last year, we supported a number of our key toy ranges on social media with a range of campaigns and competitions running on our Facebook page, which reaches over one million parents. We tied promotions into key sporting events, such as promoting our Fit n Fun Goal League during the World Cup, while our Ferrari Formula 1 Remote Control Car celebrated Sebastian Vettel’s final race of the season. December also saw the return of our infamous 12 Days of Chicco Christmas competition, which gave parents the chance to win a host of different toys just in time for Christmas.

Having achieved such fantastic results with these campaigns, we plan to continue this level of marketing into 2019 to support our new launches and give parents the opportunity to get their hands on them. In 2019, we will also be returning to key trade events such as Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Nuremberg International Toy Fair, to showcase the latest developments to our pre-school toy range.

It’s an incredibly exciting time here at Chicco, and we can’t wait to get our latest innovations in toys out into the market and in front of parents.

Key products of interest to retailers include: The latest addition to the Move & Grow range, Baby Gardener is a 2-in-1 toy; an activity centre and a walking aid with large wheels to support RRRP £24.99 little ones. Using the interactive watering can, children can water the plants, which light up and make fun sounds. Each of the different shaped blocks is easily removed, to be replaced in the correct space. With a number of different interactive modes as well as the other manual activities, the toy provides stimulation and helps with cognitive development and learning.

Baby Gardener

In 2019, Chicco will be expanding the Happy Music range even further with the launch of Flashy the Xylophone. The colourful new electronic toy features flashing lights and different melodies; children can play along or create RRP their own tune. In Follow the Lights mode, little ones have to match the pattern of the flashing lights to replicate the melody.

Flashy the Xylophone

Happy Darts

Happy Darts allows little ones from 18 months+ to develop their coordination and numerical skills through play. With an interactive Velcro dartboard and three soft Velcro balls, children hit the targets to gain the highest points possible.

The interactive dart game encourages development and offers two play modes including Hit the Target, challenging little ones to aim the ball at various numbers on the board.

Countdown mode requires landing the ball on each number counting down from five. Success is celebrated with lights and sounds every time a point is scored.

RRP £9.99

£17.99

The Dribbling Goal League is a moving electronic net suitable for children from 2 years+. Developed with exciting new design features such as the option to move from side to side and a striking new appearance, the goal is complete with interactive sounds, flashing lights and 25 different melodies - perfect for any future football stars.

Three modes of play include Penalty Shots mode, where children score as many goals as they can by shooting at the net. Every goal scored is celebrated with cheering crowd noises. Golden Goal mode is a race against the clock to score the winning goal.

Lastly, Challenge mode allows little ones to battle it out, to see who can be the first to score five goals.

Dribbling Goal League RRP £29.99

Rocket the Crossover RRP £29.99 Balance Bikes are getting the Ferrari treatment with the newest addition to the Move & Grow family of toys. The new Scuderia Ferrari Balance Bike is ideal for children aged 2 years+ and measures 57cm x 85cm. The ultra-lightweight metal frame makes it easy to manoeuvre and the adjustable, soft handlebars and seat means it can be adjusted to grow with the child. With its iconic Ferrari aerodynamic design, Grand-Prix wheels and logos, the bike is a real style statement for young cyclists.

Scuderia Ferrari Balance Bike RRP £39.99

Rocket the Crossover RC joins the Turbo Team, which includes licensed Fiat 500 and Ferrari Formula One RC cars.

A mix between an SUV and a hatchback, Rocket is the perfect first set of wheels for any young driver and has a fun, friendly design. Ideal for children aged between 2 and 6 years old, Rocket has a friendly face, large wheels and styling reminiscent of modern SUVs. The ergonomic remote control allows small hands to confidently control Rocket both indoors and out. With full manoeuvrability in left, right, forwards and reverse directions, Rocket’s remote control has infrared technology, guaranteeing accurate control and meaning children can drive with confidence.

*All RRPs stated are preliminary and may be subject to change

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Nuremberg

Sequin Art 01760 721 390 www.sequinart.com Hall 4, Stand C18 The Sequin Art team will be showcasing 12 exclusive designs plus two new ranges aimed at a younger target market at this year’s Nuremberg show.

The company already has a strong portfolio of products suitable for children and ‘kidults’ alike, and is preparing to officially launch Smoogles and Sequin Art Easy ranges at the fair.

The Smoogles collection comprises a family of seven cute baby animals including Octopus Splash, Puppy Boop, Tiger Scratch and many more. The team at Sequin Art is expanding its product range and already has a longterm development strategy in place for the collectible Smoogles characters.

Sequin Art Easy is a brand-new concept that does not involve using push pins or glue, making it ideal for younger children. The six kits come with everything kids need to complete the craft, including a picture board, sequins and the play pattern, plus a special pen that will make picking up the sequins effortless for any aspiring Sequin Artist. These new crafts are ideal for nurturing and developing creative minds, and are aimed at children from four years old.

In addition to the new concepts, Sequin Art is also introducing 12 designs to its established Blue, Red, Craft Teen and Gorjuss ranges.

The Craft Teen range was created with teenagers in mind, but is also perfect for those who appreciate modern style and vibrant colours. The company is launching four new designs to the Craft Teen collection; Elephant, Fairy, Flower Skull and Doe are joining the best-selling Unicorn design from 2018. A bright mix of colours and patterns transform these contemporary designs into pictures that make a big impression.

The popular Blue range welcomes two captivating and previously unseen designs - the Lilac Breasted Roller and German Shepherd dog. The Blue range is aimed at more mature and/or experienced Sequin Art fans who enjoy a challenge.

The newest addition to the Red range, Spick & Span, is bursting with charm and features two royal corgi dogs. In 2019, the Red collection will welcome Poppy Popcorn and Harry the Hare.

In partnership with the award-winning Santoro, Sequin Art also adds two designs to the licensed Gorjuss collection. Friends Walk Together features two embracing girls in gaily coloured dresses and signature stripy socks, while So Nice to Sea You captures the companionship of the Gorjuss mermaid and playful sea creatures.

Stax Europe B.V (+31) 880 909 396 www.lightstax.eu Hall 4A, Stand B-01 Stax aims to reinvent the classic building block.

The product range contains functional bricks like Light Stax with powerful LED lights; Sound Stax with built-in speakers; and Power Stax, which provide the energy source. Stax Hybrid combines all these elements with regular bricks, in imaginative play sets that provide plenty of play value at an affordable price.

Stax Europe CEO Arno Fluitman is aiming to bring a new dimension to building blocks, having realised that the way kids play and spend their time has undergone drastic change. By making bricks interactive, in order to engage all the senses, Stax stimulates creative building but is compatible with other toy bricks. The company is proud to have created a creative physical toy that can compete with the digital distractions of smartphones and tablets.

The concept was solidified four years ago, with Light Stax (Junior), the first line to be made available, offering large light-up bricks for younger constructors. The company then started producing smaller bricks with the Light Stax System. Each Light Stax contains a tiny but powerful LED light, which illuminates while building and playing.

The full Stax range of brick play sets includes Stax Hybrid, Stax System and Stax Junior, with each range comprising its own power base brick with specific functions.

The new Stax Hybrid line includes an animal theme with light-up eyes and recordings of real animal sounds, while the vehicle theme boasts front, rear and cabin lights, combined with motor sounds and sirens. Accessories include a light-up spinner and keyring, both fully customisable and at accessible entry level price points.

In 2018 the company pushed its innovation further with the introduction of Sound Stax - a 2x4 speaker brick which can produce specific sounds, from the meowing of a cat to a police car siren. The Power Stax brick controls the sound and motion activation and brings each Stax Hybrid creation to life. In 2019 Staxy will join the range; these interactive light-up minifigures introduce an element of storytelling to the mix. Several collaborations will also be explored, including with the iconic toy train brand Märklin, and Mercis, owner of the Miffy character.

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Avengers Cyclone

Paw Patrol E-Cruiser

For appointment contact Malcolm Cook malcolm@mc-international.co.uk Mobile: +44 (0)7770 68 88 58 www.hauck-toys.com

Nuremberg

Imperial Toy Company 07921 817 776 www.imperialtoy.com Hall 12, Stand F-27 Celebrating 50 years in 2019, Imperial is built on the mission to be ‘First in Fun’. The company continues to grow with award-winning proprietary brands, innovative products and some of the biggest internationally-known licences. As a global leader in bubbles and novelty toys, Imperial is offering several new products and brands for the UK and EMEA markets in 2019, including Lick-A-Bubble, Blitz and Disney Licensed Novelty.

Lick-A-Bubble is the world’s first proprietary bubble solution that has kids of all ages lining up to create their own flavoured bubbles. Users simply add their beverage of choice and blow bubbles to instantly enjoy delicious ‘lickable’ bubbles. Invented by a paediatric allergist, Lick-A-Bubble is safety tested and kid approved. Bubbles support active play and creativity and are the ideal play day activity or party favour.

Blitz Bubbles are a true classic, offering hours of bubble fun with the 55oz bottle of Blitz premium bubble solution. Blitz Bubbles float higher and last longer. With assorted scents available, including Apple and Candy Apple, Blitz provides a retail-ready solution for bubble play.

A brand leader in licensed goods, Imperial Toy has developed a strong assortment of Disney and other licensed product, from novelty Life Like characters and Sticky Patches to the signature Lights & Sound Bubble Wands and Bubble Toppers including items for Minnie, Mickey, Muppet Babies, Toy Story, Disney Princess, Frozen, L.O.L. Surprise! and more.

The Imperial Novelty line includes a large range of novelty items that offer innovation for this fast-moving category. The company’s worldwide access, sourcing, creative strength, product development and overall speed to market allows its customers to be first to offer the newest, biggest and latest trends. Imperial’s latest novelty items include Bon Bons, Funky Farm, Boba Balls and Boba Fruit.

In 2019, Imperial Toy will be involved in a variety of engaging events and experiences as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The team is looking forward to seeing everyone in Nuremberg, as well as Hong Kong and New York, where it will have showrooms and/or booth space to showcase both spring 2019 and the upcoming autumn lines. For more information, contact Simon Juniper, UK sales director, on the number provided.

Worlds Apart 01637 882 200 www.worldsapart.com Hall 7, Stand C21 Hot off the back of its acquisition by Moose Toys, Worlds Apart will be ringing in the New Year with a host of new launches for 2019 including new additions to its Boys’, Girls’ and Licensed product portfolios.

Following a successful launch in autumn/winter 2018, Worlds Apart will be unveiling its full line-up of 2019 additions to the anticipated Scruff-a-Luvs range. The rescue plush brand has proven to be a hit with children, parents and gift givers alike, garnering millions of views on YouTube, as well as celebrity endorsements and a charity partnership with the RSPCA. The 2019 range will include six new additions to the current line-up including limited editions, new animals and SKUs at a wide range of price points to suit every pocket. The marketing lineup will consist of a 360 marketing campaign across all the new lines, running from January-December.

There will also be new brands introduced in 2019 within the Girls’ category, including a range of action dolls with a unique feature. OmGems is a range of gymnastic dolls that come with a ‘magic’ ring which allows the child to balance their gymnast in over 30 different gravity-defying poses. Featuring on-trend styling, surprise accessories and a range of play sets, this range will launch globally from October.

Within the Boys’ category, Worlds Apart will be debuting the Fortnite Battle Royale Collection which it is distributing in the UK on behalf of Moose Toys. The Battle Royale Collection is a line of authentic skins, vehicles and play sets that will grow to a Royale-sized roster of 100 figures in 2019. Every poseable 2” figure includes swappable accessories, weapons and Back Bling.

Because players love the game’s skins and constant updates, the Battle Royale Collection will deliver non-stop freshness with five waves of product being released throughout 2019. There are 16 figures to collect in the first wave of Solo, Duo and Squad packs, as well as limited edition die cast figure. Worlds Apart will be launching the Fortnite Battle Royale Collection in the UK from January, backed by an engaging marketing campaign which will include partnerships with gaming influencers, PR activities, retail activations and digital advertising on streaming sites.

Last but not least, January will see new licensed products being revealed for the movie properties Toy Story and Frozen 2. The lines will cover a variety of Worlds Apart products at a range of price points in line with the cinematic releases, with the Frozen 2 range being ready for the global launch from 4th October 2019.

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Nuremberg

Hauck 07770 608858 www.hauck-toys.com Hall 12.2, Stand P-19 Launching more new toys than ever before, Hauck’s 2019 Nuremberg product line-up includes a new selection of ride-ons and dollrelated toys alongside an entirely new product category.

New introductions to Hauck’s successful ride-on range include innovative go-karts, trikes and electric cars. Added to the range are engaging Hauckbranded ride-ons and wagons, plus new vehicles featuring popular licences such as Toy Story, Avengers and Star Wars. All three of these family favourite properties will benefit from blockbuster film releases this year. Also new is the Hot Wheels go-kart and the Paw Patrol electric car and go-kart. A range with appeal for all ages, from pre-school to adult, Hauck’s ride-on offering provides something for all young drivers.

A new collections of dolls prams, strollers, beds and accessories will also be on show in Nuremberg; a comprehensive range featuring exclusive and stylish designs and fabrics for realistic role play.

A new category for the company, Hauck is launching a range of play food and beauty products. This extensive line-up includes portable play sets and great value kitchens, offering strong play value and prices to suit all pockets.

To make an appointment contact Malcolm Cook - malcolm@mc-international co.uk.

Craze Toys (49) 721 38 13 47 www.craze.toys Hall 6, Stand C-11 Craze Toys’ best-selling Magic Dough is extremely stretchy and malleable; it melts, breaks up, bounces like a bouncy ball and is available in many different colours and special-effect options.

Available in 20g, 40g or 80g tins, which are ideal for storing the dough safely, there is a Magic Dough to suit all tastes. The Doc Brown-Design range includes dough in metallic-blue, glow in the dark, magic galaxy, green colour-change, red lava glitter and ocean metallic options, while the on-trend Unicorn range includes galaxy glitter, pink colour-change and pink metallic-effect doughs.

Special effect Craze Dough is also available in Flamingo, Mermaid, Pineapple (glow in the dark), Sloth, Dinosaur (Predator Black, Mesozoic Red and Palaeozoic Green), Alien and Llama, while fans of gross themes will enjoy the Mr Poo tin of brown dough.

Fantastic Fruit, a special variety of Craze Magic Dough, comes in six different delicious smelling fragrances - strawberry, watermelon, peach, coconut, vanilla and cherry.

Craze Magic Dough was nominated from by the Federation of Toy Retailers as one of the Top 10 toys of 2018 last year. The dough was also Germany’s second highestselling, coming in just after Play-Doh, according to NPD.

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Jan 30th - Feb 3rd 2019

Hall 4A, stand B-01

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Nuremberg

Quercetti 07789 316 417 www.quercettistore.com Hall 5, Stand C-58 Quercetti enters 2019 with a new proposition for the UK market.

Now managed by Kids International Marketing (K.I.M.), the brand is offering more flexible trading terms, great prices and exciting new products.

Quercetti is an Italian based toy manufacturer, shipping products direct from its factory in Torino to customers in the UK and Ireland.

All products in the Quercetti range have been developed with a STEAM focus. The company likes to think of itself as an original STEAM toy manufacturer, since it has been operating this way since it was founded in 1950.

Quercetti was the original maker of peg toys, which has become the Fantacolor brand of today. The company also boasts the world’s largest range of marble runs, with products appealing to children from 18 months to 12 years old. The Georello gear range is also extensive, featuring top selling classics like Kaleido Gears, and the company has also recently moved into the wooden toy category with unique and original products joining its portfolio.

Two highlights from Quercetti at Spielwarenmesse are Peg Brite and Rami Code. Peg Brite is a peg toy which allows children to create different pictures over and over again, which also light up. Rami Code, although a reintroduction of a Quercetti classic, is appealing to today’s children, teaching how coding works through play.

To make an appointment with K.I.M.’s Wendy Wood email www. associates1@outlook.com.

Guidecraft 07725 833 273 www.guidecraft.com Hall 4, D-50 Guidecraft offers a wide selection of open-ended building toys designed to stimulate early engineering and other STEM skill development in children as young as 18 months.

Guidecraft’s stand at Spielwarenmesse’s international toy fair in Nuremberg will showcase this year’s new product offerings, which include new wooden and natural play products designed to bring the benefits of outdoor and loose-parts play into the classroom.

In particular, Guidecraft’s new Wood Stackers – Standing Stones invite children to build thoughtfully and organically.

Inspired by prehistoric building blocks, these geometric, wooden ‘stones’ foster a child’s curiosity for creating ancient structures using organic, natural materials. Each wooden block is sanded to an incredible smoothness to highlight the beautiful, natural grain and tones of the wood pieces.

Different sizes help children understand weight, gravity and relationships. Educators will find that the Inspiration Cards, included with each set, provide many creative ideas to encourage children to experiment with stacking and building to create familiar objects. The Wood Stackers come in a set of 20 pieces and are intended for both indoor and outdoor use.

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Make It Real 01613 024 100 www.makeitrealplay.com Hall 4, B-11, C-14 Make It Real’s mission is to inspire kids with its ever-expanding range of arts, craft and cosmetics kits, all of which have been designed to foster and encourage creative skills in 6-11 year olds.

To help children recreate the designs featured in its products, Make it Real offers a free app containing step-by-step instructions and support for every product in its portfolio.

Additionally the app offers a collection of inspirational videos featuring interviews with real life creative professionals, as well as a forum that allows children from around the world to showcase their finished designs.

New for 2019 is the inclusion of a Playtray in all entry-level kits.

The Playtray activity centre makes it simple to use the app while crafting or creating, so little fingers can really get to grips with their project. The range will expand later in the year to include larger machines, stations and value sets, all of which will be presented at the upcoming trade shows.

Make it Real's licensed offering for 2019 will include Disney ranges such as Descendants 3, launching in spring, and Frozen 2.

The popular Juicy Couture range of designer fashion craft kits will welcome additional products to the range, while summer will see product ranges introduced to stores nationally following the signing of a new long-term partnership with Goldieblox.

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Rubie’s Masquerade 08453 070 707 www.rubiesuk.com Hall 12.2, Stand P-24 Rubie’s is releasing a brand new How To Train Your Dragon 3 costume range including Deluxe Battlesuit Hiccup and Deluxe Battlesuit Astrid, both of which are printed front and back, and feature wings and a snood. Rubie’s is also offering Toothless and Light Fury costumes which include glow in the dark wings and accurate dragon masks. The company expects the range to be popular for World Book Day, and during the run-up to the third and final instalment in the movie franchise, set for release in February. With the first two films also on Netflix, the characters in this popular franchise maintain their popularity year on year.

Mary Poppins Returns is expected to draw plenty of families to the cinema, eager to see how the story has developed. Rubie’s expects to see the popularity of both its original fancy dress and the new costume increase as the company approaches the World Book Day period. Rubies has also introduced a Mary Poppins Returns adult costume, ideal for school teachers.

Rubie’s also launches innovative Transformers costumes for the highly anticipated PG-rated Bumblebee Movie, which was released in cinemas on the 26th of December. These cutting-edge padded costumes are available in two characters; the Optimus Flip and Reveal top and mask and the Bumblebee Flip and Reveal top and mask. Both costumes allows kids to transform from truck to robot in one simple movement.

To complete the Bumblebee movie range, Rubie’s is also offering a Bumblebee flat-chested jumpsuit which resembles the classic style, including a felt mask with mesh eye holes, while the Deluxe Bumblebee padded-chest jumpsuit offers a more rustic design while still capturing the retro and recognisable style of the VW Beetle. The jumpsuit comes with a soft mask with mesh eye holes and a felt detachable sword.

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hall us at stan 12.2 d P19 For appointment contact Malcolm Cook malcolm@mc-international.co.uk Mobile: +44 (0)7770 68 88 58 www.hauck-toys.com

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Mattel 01628 500 000 www.mattel.com Hall 12.2, Stand P15 Mattel’s iconic portfolio celebrates the world’s No. 1 doll’s 60th anniversary plus engaging brand campaigns and innovative toys across Fisher-Price, Thomas & Friends, Hot Wheels and more.

Since 1959, Barbie has inspired girls to be anything. Today, 60 years since her introduction and with over 200 careers and counting, she continues to inspire the limitless potential in every girl. In 2019 Barbie will be spotlighting the Dream Gap; the critical time between the ages of 5-7 where girls start to believe they are less brilliant than boys. To combat this, Barbie is launching a campaign dedicated to research and resources for parents on how to help girls transcend this gap. Barbie represents a broader view of society for the next generation of girls by showcasing careers typically under-represented by women through the 60th Career Dolls, highlighting role models and ‘Sheroes’, and by introducing the most diverse and empowering dolls on the market. This continued dedication is a reflection of Mattel’s belief that Barbie is more than just a doll; Barbie is a role model that helps shape futures, because when a girl plays with Barbie, she imagines everything she can become.

In 2019, Hot Wheels celebrates how the brand ignites and nurtures the challenger spirit that lives within every child. Bringing to life the brand ethos - Challenge Accepted - Hot Wheels will raise further awareness through marketing campaigns that engage boys with digital and real-life experiences. Driving the excitement in spring/summer 2019, Hot Wheels introduces a new segment with Hot Wheels Monster Trucks. The vehicles incorporate the iconic die cast kids love, with bigger wheels, smashing action and a whole new way to play.

Polly Pocket is back. Re-launched in autumn/winter 2018, this retro icon has been reimagined for a new generation with new product, new content and a new ethos - Tiny is Mighty. Polly Pocket will inspire kids to be adventurous, courageous and tenacious, just like her. Each compact has a different theme, secret reveals, accessories and a micro figure for kids to discover.

Enchantimals is an animal-themed property that celebrates caring and compassion towards all living things. In 2019, it expands the play experience for kids by offering new character and product launches. Included among the fresh content is an all-new world, Petal Park, which will benefit from new adventures airing on Tiny Pop. Mattel offers a dynamic portfolio of own-brands such as Scrabble, Uno, Break Out Beasts and Lil’ Gleemerz, and partner brands including Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 4, 101 Dalmatian Street, Disney Pixar’s Cars, DC’S Shazam, DC’s Batman, Jurassic World, WWE and Shimmer & Shine.

Fisher-Price continues to support parents in 2019 with products suitable for all ages and stages, plus help and advice to support those on the parental journey. An expansive and innovative range sees new products across the portfolio, from items to support baby at birth to toys designed to entertain toddlers. New in Babygear is the Sit-Me-Up Floor Seat in a new modern windmill pattern, while the Rainforest range continues to remain a key focus. Newborn introduces the new Hug & Play Tummy Wedge, plus the Coffee Cup Teether which helps little ones mimic what their parents do. New for Infant is the Sit-to-Crawl Learning Fox which supports movement development, while the Silly Sounds Piano introduces musical learning fun and the Busy Learning Tool Bench teaches colours, numbers and more. Pre-school welcomes the Little People Helpful Neighbour’s Garage, which engages kids in imaginative play.

Following a big year for Thomas & Friends in 2018 with the evolution of new content, 2019 will see continued communication of the engaging content narratives, characters and the brand’s UN partnership to maintain conversation and reinforce the values of Thomas & Friends. The overarching focus will be on positioning Thomas as a trusted friend for adventure and discovery, while introducing kids to the bigger world around them through the wonder of trains. This will be supported with a strong product range including a simplified product segmentation enriched with new products across the Trackmaster, Minis, Wood and My First ranges. Key products link to the new TV series; the TrackMaster Dragon Escape Set is based on a special episode where Thomas travels to China. The latest TrackMaster engines include Monkey Mission Thomas, Animal Adventure Percy and a new female engine called Rebecca who is joining the Steam Team.

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HTI Group 01253 778 888 www.htigroup.co.uk Hall 12.2, P-09 At this year’s Nuremberg toy fair a huge new product launch for HTI Group will be publically previewed for the first time.

Falling under the Teamsterz brand, and already previewing exceptionally well, expectations are high for HTI’s latest addition, which promises to unwrap the boy’s collectible market. Nuremberg will be a key industry showcase prior to the large consumer launch in the UK, followed by campaigns in local territories.

The investment into Teamsterz for 2019 will also see product innovation in the form of the new line Mighty Movers, a range of vehicles which features movement, light and sound and includes JCBs, fire trucks, police cars and more.

HTI’s core line of vehicles and garages will have an increased presence thanks to new additions and range extentions with new vehicles, track sets and transporters along with a newly dual-branded Teamsterz and JCB construction range. HTI will also offer other new product lines, including additions to the ever-popular batteryoperated ride-ons under the Teamsterz and Evo brands.

Additionally, prams and pushchairs will be a huge focus for the business, with new launches for Baby Born, Baby Annabell and Joie, including a new 6-in-1 evolve system which creates endless role-play opportunities for children.

The Puppet Company 01462 446 040 www.thepuppetcompany.com Hall 1, Stand F09 The Puppet Company is showcasing two new ranges for Nuremberg 2019.

The Story Tellers range offers kids 13 distinct characters to choose from, with many more in the pipeline. The range includes Super Heroes, a Wizard, Witch, King, Queen, Princess, Fairy and Prince, all of which will allow young imaginations to run wild. Retailing at an attractive sub-£10 price point, the quality and level of detail make the Story Tellers range a solid option in-store.

Large Dino Heads, retailing at under £20, have taken a long time for the company to perfect, but the result is a puppet that combines realism and fun for fans of all things dinosaur. With three designs of the most popular Jurassic creatures to choose from, the Large Dino Heads make for strong additions to any Puppet Company range.

To complement the new offerings, The Puppet Company has welcomed additions to its everpopular Long Sleeve, Finger Puppet, My First Puppet, Full-Bodied and Car Pet ranges. Each new product embodies the company’s high level of quality and attention to detail.

The Puppet Company’s new gift brand Wilberry is proving to be a success, with retailers giving positive feedback on the diversity of fabrics and designs. The range offers a significant margin on all items, further increasing its appeal.

The eagerly anticipated new Wilberry Dancer and Dolls toys will also be on show in Nuremberg, along with new Linens, Knitted, Snuggles and Woollies. The Wilberry Robots are also lining up to be big in spring/summer 2019, and the recent launch of the Super Heroes range also proved successful.

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Trefl 07850 779 797 www.sklep.trefl.com Hall 10.1, Stand F-36 Trefl is one of the biggest manufacturers of puzzles and games in Europe, and holds most of the major licences for children. The company also has a varied portfolio of games; the focus for the UK in 2019 is on its Mistakos stacking chair game. Suitable for up to four players, the innovative game has sold over 480,000 pieces worldwide in the past three years.

As Trefl products are delivered direct from the factory in Gdynia, Poland, the company is able to offer some of the most competitive prices around. For this year the range has been increased by 25%, with over 600 items now available.

New for 2019, Trefl is launching its 1,000-piece Crazy Element Puzzles. These puzzles don’t have a straight edge, and so offer a real challenge to even the most seasoned puzzler.

As in previous years, A.B.Gee of Ripley is distributing the Trefl range for buyers who perhaps cannot meet the MOQs for direct delivery. The comprehensive range will be presented on A.B.Gee’s stand at London Toy Fair.

For more information, please contact Trefl’s representatives, Steve Richardson or his daughter Ria, at SJR Associates.

Little Tikes 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk Hall 12.2, Stand P-08 Little Tikes is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary. New product launches for spring 2019 will lead the Nuremberg offering, with innovation at the forefront of the brand. The Little Tikes stand will showcase classic products which remain core to the brand, including the Cozy Coupe, Cape Cottage Playhouse and Turtle Sandbox.

Bringing play patterns to life through discovery and surprise, the new Fantastic Firsts range encourages kids to take their first steps and develop all-important skills. Highlights within the range include the Sleepy Stacker, Singing Sorter, Peeky Pals and the 3-in-1 Activity Walker, which is capable of keeping the most curious of toddlers entertained.

The Fun Zone range brings the thrill of a water park to consumers’ own back gardens. New for 2019, Pop ‘n Splash Surprise is an interactive game full of delight, surprise and excitement. Kids take turns spinning the wheel, then step on the stomp pad, use the hand pump or rotate the crank. At any moment, Pop ‘n Splash Surprise will launch water and/or balls high into the air, depending on whether it is being enjoyed indoors or outdoors.

Putting kids in the driving seat with brand new technology for 2019, the Little Tikes YouDrive range is the company’s latest set of remote-control vehicles offering thrill seekers a brand-new adventure. The Flex Track includes 50 pieces to make endless track combinations, and is easy to use with its quick-click bumper system. For younger drivers, the ‘grow with me’ feature means the bumper can be used to keep the car moving in the right direction, making it ideal for even the smallest children.

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s at Visit u 4 HALL 0 D5 Stand

Sales Rep: Lorna Smith Email: lsmith@guidecraft.com Booth Info: Hall 4 - Stand D50

Phone: 44 (0) 7725833273 Skype: lorna.smith966

www.guidecraft.com

Nuremberg

Zapf Creation 0845 0533 333 www.mgae.com Hall 12.2, Stand P-08 Zapf Creation, creator of the best-selling nurturing doll brands Baby Annabell and Baby born, will be revealing new brands as well as engaging updates to its evergreen offering at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair.

Now in its 20th year, the leading nurturing doll Baby Annabell will welcome heightened functionality and play patterns. The company is also bringing more innovation to the nurturing doll category with new launch Elli Smiles. Set to be the most technologically advanced doll available, Elli Smiles’ realistic facial movements, and the heightened play value they offer, must be seen to be believed.

Baby born will enter the collectibles category in spring/summer 2019 with Baby born Surprise, cute dolls that transform to reveal the many creative features of each collectible character. Baby born will also see fresh innovation added to its interactive doll and accessories offering.

Finally, the new collectible brand Lil Snaps’ is set for release in autumn 2019. Kids can collect and snap together their Lil Snaps’ dolls and accessories to create on-trend necklaces and bracelets for themselves and their friends.

toyworld

MGA Entertainment 0845 0533 333 www.mgae.com Hall 12.2, Stand P-08

The business magazine with a passion for toys

Pick up a copy of Toy World magazine from the British Pavilion in Hall 12 during the Nuremberg Toy Fair

MGA Entertainment, one of the world’s leading toy and family entertainment companies, will be showcasing its comprehensive product offering at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair.

The company will highlight key and top-selling brands including L.O.L. Surprise!, which this spring welcomes the new Makeover series. The L.O.L. Surprise! #Hairgoals dolls now have hair, while L.O.L. Surprise!

Fuzzy Pets will include new characters and come with colourful fur.

Viro Rides Vega and 550E are ready to cruise off shelves this spring; the only 2-in-1 electric scooter, Vega promises to get kids where they need to be in style.

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Our contact in UK: Stephen Richardson, SJR Associates Phone number: +44 7850 779 797 E-mail: sales@sjr-associates.co.uk

Company Profile

Import Services

Meeting the challenges of Brexit With the Brexit situation still mired in uncertainty, Toy World caught up with Mike Thomas, client services director at Import Services, about how the shipping and logistics sector can address the challenges it faces during this period of instability.

What is the latest on the Brexit situation, and how can Import Services help the toy community to minimise the impact from Brexit over the coming months?

The Brexit discussions are now even more complicated and the lie of the land uncertain.

However, if political factions back some form of deal in parliament, then the process of withdrawing from the EU is likely to keep us in a customs arrangement. For the toy industry, with products coming from the Far East for distribution through the UK and continental Europe, this situation would likely mean that very little would change - unless things go really wrong and we crash out of the EU without a deal.

A hard Brexit would see strict customs borders come into force on 29th March, at which point the process of clearing product between the UK and continental Europe (and vice versa) will become trickier.

Despite this unsettled period, Import Services is in the privileged position of operating AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) bonded logistics sites in and around the container port of Southampton, and is already managing international flows of goods with electronic clearances on behalf of our clients. If the situation requires it, we can hold products manufactured overseas under bond, eg: VAT and duty-free within our warehouse, and then move products to another customs jurisdiction outside

of the UK, with VAT and Duty paid at destination.

We’re therefore in a strong position to assist our current and future clients adjust to the new Brexit regime, whatever shape it may take.

What are the biggest shortterm challenges that the current uncertainty surrounding Brexit will bring to toy importers and retailers?

Most of our customers will have already organised their inbound shipping, certainly for the next quarter. In the toy market, products are typically sourced from China and the Far East, and these will continue to come into the UK or the EU in the normal way. Shipments arriving from outside the EU will be unaffected in the short term too; they’ll arrive at a deep-sea port by container and move through to the receiving warehouse.

Thereafter, the main concern will be the potential length of time it may take to move products from the warehouse to the end consumer, particularly for orders destined to Continental European markets. Clients importing both raw materials and finished products from the continent would be wise to look at bringing stock in earlier than the end of Q1 2019, to make sure they have a buffer in place.

We are already being asked to bring in products ahead of the end of March 2019, by companies that typically wouldn’t import so early in the seasonal cycle; however, they have decided to do so as a precautionary measure. We then manage distribution with the available routes to market to meet required delivery schedules.

How is Import Services adapting to eet the challenges ahead?

It would appear the PM’s plan is appreciated by businesses from a certitude perspective; it also sets out a timeframe and mechanism, making it the sort of solution to get behind. Whatever

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Import Services

Company Profile from the UK, we are again in a privileged position with our pricing model. There’s more capacity going out from the UK looking for work to carry to the continental market than is coming in a result of the imbalance of trade. This is even more compelling, sited at a deep-sea container port with links globally. This trade imbalance won’t change overnight; if anything, it’ll stay this way for the foreseeable future.

If there are unacceptable queues and disruption to the supply chain, then the proximate ports will open up – Ramsgate and Portsmouth, and potentially other RORO ports will be activated. Trade patterns might change, and logistics routes too, but we’ll always find a route to market. We realise speed to market is hugely important for launches, so we’ll find creative ways to resolve any challenges we face, even if this involves holding a buffer stock in-situ while we figure out the best solutions to offer our clients.

How does Import Services go ‘above and beyond’ in supporting its customers?

Brexit roadmap ends up crystallising has got to be carried out in a structured way; a chaotic, hard Brexit will obviously be disruptive in the short-term. However, business will ultimately win through and we are in the best position to facilitate transition.

We are also expanding capacity as a business, with plans in place for 2019. Medium term, Import Services is planning a game changer at our container port facility, with significant further capacity on stream in Q1-21. This jump is designed to enable further growth from our client base and the advent of new business.

As well as companies which import goods into the UK for sale domestically, some suppliers move their goods on to other European territories - what changes should they be looking out for?

Moving products across customs jurisdictions will require assistance from AEO accredited logistics, trucking and freight forwarding businesses; this accreditation is recognised across the EU. Many people reading this won’t be experts in logistics - what they do best is design, manufacture and distribute great toys so they need to be working with AEO accredited reputable logistics companies. The ability to manage information flow and to interface with customs jurisdictions electronically, by data exchange comprising ASN’s commercial invoices, packing lists, customs tariff codes and commensurate descriptions, will be key to successful movement should customs borders arise.

It’s also important to look for carriers that are already planning options when crossing frontiers. Alternative methods of delivery, from RORO (roll on, roll off) to short sea container traffic, could help alleviate potential pinch points at known key freight corridors via Dover/Calais, if a Hard Brexit materialises.

Import Services currently processes and distributes orders to 64 Amazon sites across the UK and Continental Europe. Our clients supply retailers from the Iberian Peninsula, Italy and France a growth market - right across the Benelux, Germany and increasingly now to Eastern Europe and Scandinavia too.

Is the toy trade well-positioned to ride out potential short-term disruption?

The toy trade is resilient and creative, serving an evergreen market. Products are sourced overseas and supply chains founded in the rigours of international trade; given the right logistics partner and a spirit of collaboration exists when road blocks are faced, the prospects for our industry are pretty good.

Looking at distribution to European markets

We invest a significant amount of money every year in our information systems. Our clients

advise us that our ability to supply real-time information and continually improve this is a compelling reason to partner with Import Services.

Clients are able to see their orders inbound, moving status through our warehouse processes and then en route and final delivery with POD. This is truly where our systems and client facing teams go above and beyond, and we will continue to do so; it’s a vital part of supply chain logistics in this new world of retailing we all face.

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Company Profile

Mattel

Mattel shakes it up Following a ‘transformational’ year which saw big changes happening within Mattel, Rachael Simpson-Jones spoke to Michael Hick, UK & Ireland sales & country manager, to find out how this will translate into performance for the manufacturer, and what there is to look forward to as we enter 2019.

How has 2018 been for Mattel in the UK? It was certainly an interesting year to start my new role as country manager, with Toys R Us going shortly after the beginning of 2018 and where the UK toy market ultimately ended up.

On top of this, Mattel also went through a massive transformation last year. To ensure that we’ve got the right talent in sales, marketing and digital there has been a substantial shakeup of the teams. While we’ve always benefitted from plenty of talent within Mattel, we’ve increased the support in key areas with the particular skill sets we wanted to bring into the business. It proved an interesting challenge; bringing new people on board from outside the toy category means they can see the challenges with a fresh perspective as well as the hurdles we have to overcome.

We also changed distribution channels in April, which is always a more complicated process than you would ideally want it to be. In November, we predicted the challenging environment that the category would experience, and we managed to cut our cloth accordingly, coming up with a strong plan and a P&L in line with this new world.

In December, we had tight levels of inventory out across our distribution channels, we were down on inventory at retail, and a lot of our key items were out of stock. What this means is that we started this year with clean shelves, fresh new product - but strong sales.

How does that compare with the company’s global performance?

We’re pretty much in line with the US, in terms of where we both are in the market. The US toy market has been up all year by high-single digits, and, relative to the US, the UK business is very similar in both market share and performance.

We’ve grown our share since the summer, which is really pleasing. It was something of a game of two halves; in the first half of 2018 we were underperforming versus our competitors, as we were focused on our internal changes and

working on new opportunities for distribution.

However, in the second half of the year, as the new team bedded further in and those fresh skills started to shine through, we saw excellent market share increases and if anything, we were over performing. We’ve got real momentum coming into 2019 as a result.

What have been the bright spots for you over the past year?

Barbie has been a standout success, showing huge growth for the brand. In a year when competition has been taking spend from Barbie’s target audience, we’re delighted by the traction she’s got. Had we mentioned some of the numbers we’re seeing in Nuremberg last year, we’d have been told by our customers to go back and check them, the assumption being that they must have been wrong - we’re talking big, double digit growth. With Barbie’s 60th anniversary in 2019, we’re teed up nicely for a very strong 12 months.

Hot Wheels also enjoyed a massive resurgence in the second half of 2018; although we were initially below the global trend, we ended the year above it. The marketing team did a great job on its plans for the back end of 2018, and our key drivers were supported by some big retail activations. At the end of the day, the brand is about that iconic die cast element, and we managed to secure a better distribution spot on the individual cars. If you drive the single cars

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– no pun intended - you won’t sell so many sets at the back end. We managed to catch that throughout the summer and then implement the sets for the end of the year, which was a good move. The global team has done a fantastic job repositioning Hot Wheels, just as they did with Barbie, creating a core brand that fans can really get behind.

Polly Pocket has been a great launch for us too; it was a slow build for a number of reasons, but now we are seeing some really good traction.

Outside our own-brand portfolio, Jurassic World has been phenomenal.

We’ve achieved five times the volume another manufacturer did when it held the licence, and we’re winning awards thanks to the joint marketing plans we’ve worked on with Universal.

Is the internal team structure now finalised, or are there further changes still to come?

At Mattel, things are always changing.

Consumers and the retail landscape are also changing at a rate of knots, so we try to predict what the future could look like and line up our structure, investment and marketing as we go forward. We won’t see the same level of change this year as we did last year, but we do have a new lead in marketing, Kelly Philp, who has worked with us for a number of years across both marketing and sales. She’s been a huge part of building the marketing team up, securing the talent that we want for the future.

Would you say Mattel is prepared for the major developments taking place in the retail channel?

There is no manufacturer that can truly say it is ready for the future of retail. There are suggestions that it’ll change more in the next five years than it has in the past 40. We’ve made a big leap forward to ensure we’re as prepared as possible, by upping our e-retail and digital marketing teams, and changing up the skill sets of the sales and marketing teams compared to two years ago, but there is always more to do.

Company Profile

Mattel level to ensure it’s an absolute success. Our new launch, Lil’ Gleemerz, was TV advertised across Boxing Day, and there are other new launches I can’t even talk about yet.

As a UK business, we weren’t taking enough bets, particularly on new items - we’d pass them by in the showrooms or go into them lacking conviction – but this year you’ll see that we’re going in hard on new launches. Harry Potter is a great example of this; we increased the number on it five times and it still wasn’t enough.

Management took the view that it would really go after it, and together with great support from both Warner Bros and our retail partners, it’s been a runaway success.

We’re also feeling very positive about the traction that the new Thomas & Friends content has got, and those positive ratings will convert to toy sales in this year. On the face of it, 2019 looks set to be a great year. There will always be things that don’t go 100% according to plan, but we’re very excited.

I worked it out that 1,900 physical stores went out of business last year, and that’s only the ones in the public eye. The disruption has been huge, and the government must do more or we’re not going to have a high street left. We need all channels of distribution to be in a good place; they’ve all got different roles to play for the manufacturing community, particularly in toys.

As it stands, we have a good mix, but if we start to lose more specialist retailers it’ll become trickier.

Looking at the overall retail picture, how have sales through different retail channels changed in 2018?

NPD data is showing that a large majority of the Toys R Us business has disappeared. Some of it will go to retailers outside the NPD retail set, but you’d still expect some of those within NPD to have picked it up.

We looked at what happened when Woolworths went under, and we saw that whilst circ 70% of the business looked like it had initially disappeared, it started to come back over the following few years. We expect the same with Toys R Us. Unlike those that are involved in toys, there are consumers out there who may have been totally unaware that Toys R Us was gone until they drove to their local retail park to do their Christmas shopping. That business must go elsewhere. There are strong players within the discount and specialist channels, and the pure toy outlets continue to grow too.

However, even with the loss of Toys R Us, I don’t think the industry was prepared to see double digit decline last year; that was unexpected.

Looking ahead to 2019, what do you see as Mattel’s biggest challenges next year?

We’ve got the brands, we’ve got momentum and we’re set for a strong year, but the main challenges will be the consumer and the market.

Brexit will have an effect on consumer spending and on logistics; retail figures for November were 2.3% down, indicating that people are saving money because they’re unsure what Brexit will bring. For toys as a category, and Mattel as a manufacturer, this mind-set is a major thing to navigate. We have the talent and the knowledge to weather the storm

What are your aspirations for 2019? and deliver a strong year, but it’s going to be the macro factors which pose the biggest challenge to us all.

Are there any particular brands or product developments you’re excited about?

I have to start with Barbie. The momentum we’ve got, and the plans in the pipeline for her 60th this year, will see a huge amount of noise surround her in 2019. Hot Wheels’ momentum has rolled us into this year on a strong footing, and Fisher-Price welcomes some fantastic new additions. One thing we’d always struggled with on Fisher-Price was innovation, but the global team is now bringing through great new products as we move through the new management globally. We have a full year of Harry Potter and Polly Pocket ahead, and Toy Story 4 is something both Mattel and Disney Pixar are hugely excited about. We’re both working hard on every

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Last year was our big transformation, so 2019 needs to be our growth year. We’ve got to take all our plans, brands and products and carry them forward, aiming for market share gain and solid, decent growth.

On a personal level, I want to keep learning and improving, continue developing the team and keeping supporting our retailer partners.

Importantly, I don’t want to become too confident or complacent. I’ve seen this before, and in previous years it’s fair to say we were perhaps over-confident here at Mattel, but we have to keep listening to our consumers, suppliers and retailers.

How do you feel the UK toy market will fare next year?

I believe that it will show low-to-mid single digit growth, perhaps 2-3%.

However, I think there will be a lot of movers and shakers from both a property point of view and a manufacturer point of view; we’ve seen MGA achieve great things on L.O.L., and Fortnite product is now coming through thick and fast. Even with Brexit and the retail turmoil, I know the toy industry can cope with whatever is thrown at it in the coming months.

Company Profile

Wow! Stuff

The right stuff

Having ended 2018 with an Award for Innovation from Warner Bros. for its Mystery Flying Snitch, Wow! Stuff is entering this year on a real high. Rachael Simpson-Jones spoke to Richard North, CEO of the company, to find out what innovation means to the team, and why pop culture is set to explode in the years to come.

Congratulations on your recent award – that must have been a proud moment for the team?

The award was the icing on the cake at the end of a successful year in terms of sales growth; we are up 50% YOY. However, what’s even better for us is the recognition of the creation and innovation we pride ourselves on. Innovation excites everyone here at Wow! Stuff, and it’s truly fulfilling for Warner to have honoured us, out of all of its many superb licensees, with an award that says that we are the most innovative.

When it comes to securing bigname licences, how important is that level of innovation?

We’ve been in business for 12 years as Wow! Stuff, but we’ve actually only been involved in the toy market since 2010. Our very first product was an animatronic monkey called Dave, which sold a quarter of a million pieces in the UK in its first year. We all thought this was great, and congratulated ourselves heartily on being fantastic at making toys. And then, of course, it all came crashing back down to earth again two years later with an almighty bump when one of our products absolutely tanked. At that point, we went back to the drawing board and did a bit of a re-set.

Licences were at the forefront of that re-set,

but it was only about three years ago that we went for Tier 1 licences. We approached Disney, but we found it very difficult to see the right people there; a lot simply didn’t know who we were, and we didn’t have a high-profile so were easily brushed off. A friend of a friend eventually put me in touch with Simon Philips. I remember sitting in his very grand office and showing him what we’d invented for the likes of Hasbro and Mattel; he hadn’t realised they were our products, as they didn’t have our branding. When we showed him Air Swimmers, our globally successful second product, he said he’d been looking for us for a long time and asked why we hadn’t spoken to Disney before. I told him: “I have, I’ve been knocking on your door for ages!”

Any new company will take some time to become established, and you really have to be prepared to take the hits before people look at you seriously. Warner Bros. gave us a huge opportunity with its Wizarding World property, treating us like any other big licensee from the get go, and we have returned their

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vast confidence in us with our award-winning product range. Two years ago we couldn’t use our innovation to open doors like we can now, and this is down to our awards and other achievements. Nowadays, licensors know that if we work on their brands we really will deliver, creating massive excitement and awareness with our innovation.

Over the years, many licensees have become risk-averse and have moved more towards breadand-butter products like play-sets, action figures and gifting. We aren’t big enough to land master toy deals, and we don’t want to create play sets, as there are companies out there who already do that really well. We are prepared to take risks, but because we specialise in innovating, the product we come up with has probably not been done before, or anything quite like it. This means there is no prior knowledge on which to base confidence that it will sell. We take a risk on the design and the commitments on MGs, and sometimes these risks won’t pay off and we’ll get hit. But crucially, the licensor will remain unaffected. What we’ve therefore done is carved a niche – quite a big one – for five or six key products featuring major innovation, plus a range of other, slightly less innovative products which are nonetheless still highly engaging.

Company Profile Our innovation drives incredible sales numbers. As our products are sold in both gift and toy retailers, we’re getting two bites of the cherry and so is the licensor.

How important do you think pop culture is to the UK toy market, and do you think it will increase its popularity in years to come?

Because we came from a gift background, pop culture and kidult products was the area we were in when we started up 12 years ago. We targeted the 8-16 year old audience, so it was a natural move to age our ranges up, which we started doing in earnest three years ago. Funko has made pop culture accessible in the toy industry, and retailers have accepted that the category exists.

With £1 in every £9 being spent on kidult toys, it’s an important part of the market now. Wow! Stuff is creating innovation in the pop culture area for the adults that want toys, and the more we innovate and sell, the deeper an understanding we gain of that 16-24 year-old consumer base.

In two or three more years, I’ve no doubt that pop culture will have become a very substantial part of the industry. It’s not just young kids that enjoy toys; adults do too. They offer the escapism we all crave. This is reflected in the movie industry, which is aging up properties that were originally aimed at kids. The older age groups enjoy escaping into a fantasy land just as much as children do, and they want that land to feel as immersive, realistic and authentic as possible.

Our focus at Wow! Stuff is on making products that are faithful to the universe in question, and allow the consumer to feel like they are really in there. Take our Harry Potter range, for example; our wands are authentic, heavyweight and fullsize, but our innovation adds extra magic that brings the wands to life in a way that’s true to the movies. An action figure can’t take someone into

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a universe in the same way our products can.

You’re also seeing elements of consumers’ lives outside of their chosen fan universe - fashion, music, online etc. - making their way more strongly onto the pop culture scene. There’s a kind of cross-fertilisation of brands, products and ideas, and this creates a hybrid between two worlds that becomes unique and cool in itself.

Only those people who live those lifestyles know what it means to them, and when they buy into it, they’re looked up to by youngsters. These aspirational products are then desired by the kids, and that’s when the mass market appeal really kicks in.

What can we expect from Wow! Stuff this year?

We will be introducing the single biggest product Wow! Stuff has ever created this year, but before I say anymore we need to go back in time a little. The biggest product we ever launched was Air Swimmers - the helium-filled flying shark and clownfish - and we sold a million pieces. Within a year we were being ripped off by Chinese companies, and I spent the next four years suing to protect our IP rights. We knew we needed to make a stand; if we didn’t, we knew beyond all doubt that it would happen again the next time we produced something truly innovative. The legal case cost us a huge amount of money and caused massive downtime, as we couldn’t focus on our core business. However, we won the case in the Royal Courts of Justice, and this meant that we could continue with our innovating unabated.

As a result, our new product is set to have orders of magnitude, even bigger than Air Swimmers. We’ve shown it under strict NDAs to approximately 100 companies, and we’ve never experienced a reaction like it. And quite honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever see another reaction like it ever again in my lifetime. A lot of things have come together at the right time for launching this product – technology, a brand, a moment in time – and nothing has ever been created like it. I can’t say much more, it’s too sensitive. We have every major retailer in the world on the line, and people are already calling it the No. 1 toy worldwide for 2019. I have footage of buyer reactions when we’ve revealed the product, and, funnily enough, the one word we heard more than any other was “Wow!” We also have a new collectible called K-bling, which marks the first time we’ve entered the collectibles market. It’s a collectible that can

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attach to any cable – charging cables, mouse cables, power cables for your games console – so collectors can not only display their love of various brands but can also protect the end of the cable that tends to get frayed. As well as being highly collectible and very cute, they also have a practical purpose, which sets them apart from other collectibles in the market. Our research led us to a trend that was happening in Japan, so we linked up with one of the original designers to launch it in Europe. We have huge pre-orders already, and we’re really excited.

VIEW THE WHOLE SCALEXTRIC RANGE ON the HORNBY HOBBIES’ STAND, B20, AT LONDON TOY FAIR

Come and see the full exciting range on the Hornby Hobbies Stand at London Toy Fair (B20) or call 01843 233525 for more details.

New York Toy Fair Q&A

Steve Pasierb

The changing face of the US toy market Late last year, Toy World editor Rachael Simpson-Jones spoke to Steve Pasierb, president & CEO of the Toy Association, about how recent events have affected the US toy industry and what’s in store at the upcoming New York Toy Fair.

It has been a turbulent year for the global toy industry – how is the mood within the US toy community heading into the holiday season?

I think it’s fair to say that the mood is one of cautious optimism. It’s been a good year so far we were up about 7% for mid-year and we were up around 2% at the beginning of December - but it’s always the last six weeks that really tell the tale.

We do know that Toy Association members have had great success selling product to retailers; the question now is what sell-through will be at the retail level. The NPD Group was saying that even if the US is down a few percentage points this year, it can be considered a success considering everything that has gone on. Popular opinion would point to the US toy market ending the year flat to slightly up.

Has the demise of TRU provided opportunities for other retailers?

Definitely; in fact, it seems to be happening more here than in other parts of the world.

Big retailers such as Target, Walmart and Amazon have all mobilised. Target has done a phenomenal job of adding toy space to a lot of its stores and is merchandising it really well.

Mid-mass retailers such as JC Penney and Kohls, plus arts & crafts stores like Michaels, are taking a much bigger stake in toys, and we’re seeing this with some of the larger grocery chains too – Wagmans has always sold toys, and Kroger has taken a big stake with the new Geoffrey’s Toy Box offering. In the US right now, you could say that there are fewer toy stores but more toy departments, because there are more retailers carrying different lines of toys. Some will naturally be more successful than others.

Have suppliers been able to adapt their business models to cope with TRU’s disappearance?

They are still in the process of adapting. In

the US market, Toys R Us was the one retailer that would always take a bet on toys, and so it provided a bridge between being a small or medium company and a big one. A supplier who was too small to sell to a major retailer, but big enough to no longer want to sell purely to specialist retailers, found Toys R Us was the place to go to next. If successful with Toys R Us, it could make that leap to mass market retailers across the country. Look at Moose Toys; Toys R Us took a bet on Moose in Australia and brought it to the states, and that’s a large part of the reason Shopkins was so successful. The question is, who’s going to fill that gap?

What have been the standout products of 2018?

Collectibles are still really hot in the US, with L.O.L. Surprise! in particular remaining hugely popular. We’re seeing a lot of development in STEM/STEAM, which has translated to better sales and also better products – ones that are fun first and educational second, so that kids can really embrace them. Our list of finalists for the Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards was published in November. We received 550 entries from a little over 200 companies, and the screening panel has whittled this down to 123 finalists, with voting closing on the 16th of January. This year there doesn’t seem to be that one hot ‘everyone’s got to have it’ toy.

What is the latest on the ‘Trump tariff’ situation?

We’ve been fortunate enough to work closely with US trade representatives at Capitol Hill and the Department of Commerce on this. Broadly speaking, the US toy industry came through the first three rounds of tariffs largely unscathed.

The third round did see our members get hit on the raw materials, component parts and fixtures, but generally suppliers were able to absorb the increased costs. A fourth round of tariffs would pose a very real challenge for 2019 as we continue to recover from the loss of Toys R Us.

How do you think the New York Toy Fair will be impacted by these events?

The October Dallas Toy Fair saw a much higher turnout than usual, for the reasons I outlined earlier. It’s a positive anomaly which repeated itself in the run up to the New York Toy Fair.

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Firstly, the show is sold out from an exhibitor standpoint, and by the end of November we were way ahead – up about 20-30% year-to-date - on registrations for buyers, sales reps and trade guests. It would seem that the events of 2018 have worked out really well for the New York Toy Fair.

What can visitors expect to see at the 2019 show?

We’ll have over 1000 companies from six continents, so visitors can expect to see the same volume of new and exciting toys as they have at previous iterations. The popular Launch Pad area, which sees all the first time exhibitors placed together in one hall, has been continued for 2019. Retailers really flock to this hall to view never-before-seen toys, which makes it a worthwhile and valuable area to offer.

Over the last decade or so we’ve offered a programme exclusively for designers and inventors called Creative Factor, and this year we’re expanding it into the entire lobby of hall 1D. The advisory board we’ve worked with over the years is really blowing this up for 2019. Mojo Nation’s Billy Langsworthy will be hosting the Creative Factor Play Innovation Panel on the Sunday, and our talent board is increasing its programme with free educational seminars for show attendees. The TOTY Awards will be held the night before Toy Fair opens (Friday 15th February) and we’ll be putting on the international visitors’ reception like we do every year.

How do you see 2019 panning out?

We’re all still working through the loss of TRU, and the long term story there remains to be told.

Tariffs are the hottest government affairs issue we are facing in the United States, but we’re also investing an enormous amount of time into IP theft, counterfeiting, safety and grey market products. The Toy Association will be publishing a white paper on IP and counterfeiting in the USA sometime early this first quarter. Also, we’re paying a lot of attention to potential issues surrounding marketing to children, as some NGO groups are concerned about the internet of things (IoT). Over the coming years, it’s likely that more and more companies will look to produce internet connected toys, so observing COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule) guidelines is very important. The settling out of the retail situation will continue throughout 2019.

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New York Toy Fair Preview

Countdown to Toy Fair New York T

he 116th North American International Toy Fair will take place Saturday 16th – Tuesday 19th February at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, where the newest and most innovative toys and games for 2019 will be unveiled to nearly 30,000 toy and play professionals from all over the world.

Featuring 1,000 exhibiting toy companies from six continents, Toy Fair attendees will be able to view hundreds of thousands of new playthings – including classic toys, tech toys, educational toys, novelty products, party games, activity sets and much more. The Launch Pad area will exclusively highlight first-time exhibitors that are new to Toy Fair, offering a rare glimpse at never-before-seen product. Buyers and licensors will be there to do business and strike lucrative deals, while global media will be on-site in search of the next big toy or game.

“With less than three months to go, we’re gearing up for an exciting show filled with deal-making, networking, after-hours events and educational opportunities, all of which are designed to help our guests grow their businesses and expand their horizons. And with the show’s square footage already sold out, Toy Fair New York is the place to see the most cutting edge toys, games, and youth entertainment products,” said Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of The Toy Association, the US trade association that produces the annual show.

With something for everyone at Toy Fair New York, here’s why the marketplace is a ‘must attend’ event for the global toy and play community.

Knowledge Network Highlights Through Toy Fair’s Knowledge Network programming, attendees will be privy to a line-up of rich educational sessions to help them stay current on industry happenings and learn about compelling topics to help them succeed.

• T oy Safety & Compliance: The Toy Association is once again hosting the Toy Safety & Compliance Update at the show on Monday 18th February.

The update provides industry stakeholders with information on important changes in state, federal and international toy safety requirements, and covers emerging issues under consideration by legislators around the globe.

• L icensing: Given that licensing represents a significant component of global toy sales, Toy Fair’s Licensing Content Connection educational series offers valuable seminars addressing licensing fundamentals, how to negotiate a licensing deal, global licensing trends, and how to evaluate whether a property is ready for licensing.

• C reative Factor: The Creative Factor programme for entrepreneurs and inventors will expand at this year’s Toy Fair and feature a deep line-up of engaging demonstrations and educational content presented by experts. Topics include: how to build your brand’s narrative, tips on out-of-the-box distribution, how the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, AR and VR is driving toy innovation, and how to protect your

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IP. Creative Factor’s refresh is thanks to its new advisory board, which includes Brett Klisch (the program’s co-founder and creative director at Peru Meridian Studios), Robin Raskin (founder of Living in Digital Times), Warren Tuttle (president of the United Inventors Association Board of Directors), Billy Langsworthy (cofounder of Mojo Nation in the UK) and Matt Nuccio (owner of Design Edge).

• G lobal Market Research: The marketplace will also offer sessions for companies looking to grow their businesses internationally.

The Toy Association’s exclusive Global Trade and Market Expansion programming will include sessions on Brazil and China, with updated data from consultancy firm Kidz Global on consumer behavior in each country.

Presenters will also cover additional market entry research focusing on each country’s demographics, business environment, and overall expansion opportunities. Global Trade and Market Expansion programming is free to Toy Association members; the cost for nonmembers is $99.

• T rendspotting: Global buyers and media are invited to The Toy Association’s annual Toy Trends Briefing, taking place on Sunday 17th February. During the seminar, the Association’s trend experts will unveil their top trend predictions for the coming year using product examples from the floor.

Feature

New York Toy Fair Preview

Advance Planning Want to get ahead of the game? Buyers can visit ShopToys365.com, The Toy Association’s B2B e-commerce platform, to browse exhibitors’ virtual showrooms, place orders, and make vital business connections before Toy Fair even opens its doors.

The Toy Association also hosted a free webinar to help buyers, particularly those coming to the show for the first time, prepare and maximise their time at Toy Fair. Buyers interested in listening to a recording of the webinar may contact Jackie Retzer, manager of audience relations at The Toy Association, at JRetzer@ toyassociation.org.

Visiting From Overseas?

With the growing number of international attendees at Toy Fair, the show organisers have arranged special events and resources for these guests. An invite-only International Visitors’ Welcome Reception at the end of opening day (16th February) will allow international Toy Fair exhibitors, press, trade officials, embassy representatives and other attendees to meet and mingle. International buyers will also have access to the Toy Fair Buyers Lounge & International Business Center (Room 1B03) during the show.

Visit www.ToyFairNY.com or download the free Toy Fair Mobile App (available in the Apple Store and Google Play) for information about registration, exhibiting companies, special events, educational opportunities, hotel bookings, and more.

Visit us at Spring Fair: Hall 5 Stand G36-H37

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NEW FOR 2019!

Special Feature

Fence Club

The Fence Club 70 years young

The Fence Club is a toy trade institution. As it approaches its 70th birthday, John Baulch looks at how the club has evolved in recent years, moving away from its ‘old boys club’ roots to a more inclusive institution which reflects the modern-day toy community.

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he Fence Club was first inaugurated in 1950, so will be celebrating its 70th birthday in November 2020. It’s fair to say that the toy trade into which the club emerged was a very different environment to the toy community of today. The years of Far Eastern manufacturing dominance were still some way ahead, so Britain was one of the global forces in the toy market. The eight people from the toy trade who formed the Fence Club were serious ‘movers & shakers’, and the club reflected the toy industry of its time in that all the members were male.

Fast forward seven decades and the toy industry has changed beyond all recognition; thankfully, the Fence Club, which for many years epitomised the old-school toy trade, has acknowledged the importance of moving with the times too. The somewhat fusty image of an ‘old boys club’ has gradually transformed in recent years; no longer does the club see the need to rigidly adhere to conventions established in a vastly different time and place.

The ethos of the club is “to strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends.” A series of functions is held throughout the year, some of which are limited to members only, while other events see guests invited by the members. Of the public events, the Fence Club Christmas Party has long been established as a glamorous and prestigious festive industry event, while the Toy Fair Party is a more informal, relaxed evening that takes place on the penultimate night of the show. At each function, the emphasis is on having fun and raising money for good causes. Along with the bi-annual Toy Trade football match in Hong Kong,

these functions are vital to the club’s fundraising efforts.

Interestingly, for the first 20 years or so, there was no real charitable angle to the Fence Club – it was purely a fine dining, social society. This started to change in the early 1980s, culminating in the club being awarded charitable status in 1998, since which time the club has given away £2m in donations. The club raises substantial sums of money every year, focusing its efforts on small children’s charities which support underprivileged kids in the UK. In addition to valuable financial funding, the club also gives away around £50,000 of toys each year to children’s hospices and charities; these donations come from across the toy industry, not just from companies with Fence Club members – any toy company with spare stock can participate in this very worthwhile scheme.

The club only ever has 45 members, together with 38 “Wall Members” – those who have reached retirement age qualify for wall membership.

The committee is always open to considering new members who fit the ethos of the club and who are able to support the club’s charitable work. Club secretary Clive Jones admits: “We appreciate that it’s not cheap to be a member, but it’s very rewarding and extremely prestigious.

Membership is a personal invitation; companies aren’t invited to become members, people are. We look to keep membership numbers consistent, as we’re keen to maintain the exclusivity and special nature of the club.”

Like any exclusive institution which has been around for a while and values its traditions, the Fence Club has sometimes struggled with how it is

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perceived by the wider toy community. I won’t lie, when I first became aware of the club, I saw it as being somewhat stuck in the past and largely full of old men. While the club still has four members who joined in the 1960s, recent years have seen a younger intake - a valuable injection of new blood resulting in the club being more vibrant and representative of the toy industry as a whole.

But perhaps the biggest bone of contention was the absence of female members – a subject which has led to fierce debate (both inside and outside the club) for many years. Thankfully, the committee has taken the entirely sensible view that it is crucial that the club catches up with evolution within the toy trade, and that it needs to modernise while continuing to embrace tradition.

As a result, 2018 saw the appointment of the club’s first four female members: Mary Wood, Nicola Bergot, Andrea Gornall and Jacqueline Taylor-Foo. More will follow in the years to come.

As a Fence Club member, I am delighted that the membership has fully embraced these very necessary changes; this year’s Fence Club AGM saw the best turnout in years, with many commenting on how the atmosphere was the best it has ever been. We are fortunate to work in a creative, vibrant, diverse trade, and the Fence Club should be a true reflection of all that is great about this wonderful industry. That is how it will survive and thrive, and how it will continue to provide opportunities for the toy trade to get together, have fun and raise money for extremely worthwhile causes for many years to come.

There is still some way to go, but finally, we can say that the Fence Club is looking seventy years young!

Show Diary January Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair 7th – 10th January Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong, China www.event.hktdc.com

2019

May Toymaster

21st – 23rd May The Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, UK www.toymaster.co.uk

London Toy Fair 22nd – 24th January Olympia, Kensington, London, UK www.toyfair.co.uk

Nuremberg International Toy Fair 30th January – 3rd February Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, Nuremberg, Germany www.spielwarenmesse.de

February

Distoy 28th May – 31st June St James’ Court & 51 Buckingham Gate, London, UK The St Ermin’s Hotel, 2 Caxton Street, London, UK www.distoy.com

June Licensing Expo 2019 4th – 6th June Mandalay Bay Convention Centre, Las Vegas, USA www.licensingexpo.com

Spring Fair 3rd – 7th February NEC Birmingham, Birmingham, UK www.springfair.com New York Toy Fair 16th – 19th February Jacob K. Javits Convention Centre, New York City, New York, USA www.toyfairny.com

September Autumn Fair 1st – 4th September NEC Birmingham, Birmingham, UK www.autumnfair.com

Kind + Jugend

April The Independent Toy & Gift Show 29th – 30th April Cranmore Park, Cranmore Avenue, Solihull, UK www.independenttoyandgift.co.uk

19th – 22nd September Cologne exhibition centre, Cologne, Germany www.kindundjugend.com

October Brand Licensing Europe

1st – 3rd October London Excel, London, UK www.brandlicensing.eu

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Golden Bear’s new toy range launches AW ‘19

Series 4 coming in 2019

26 x ‘7 episodes

Brand new Bing feature plush

Supported

by TV and digital activity

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Come and see us at: LONDON TOY FAIR STAND E69 NUREMBERG STAND Hall 1, D03

Also available: • Bing and Flop soft toys • Bing and Sula talking soft toys • Figurine gift pack • Wooden peg puzzle • Bing fun phone All enquiries: Telephone: +44 (0)1952 608308 customerservices@goldenbeartoys.co.uk www.goldenbeartoys.com

Feature

Toy Fair 2019

Get your kicks at Toy Fair 66 As Toy Fair once again opens its doors at London Olympia, more than 270 exhibitors will be presenting their latest products to UK retailers and visitors from the global toy community. Rachael Simpson-Jones finds out more.

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t was announced back in October that the 66th iteration of the Toy Fair had sold out, three months before the three-day show opens on 22nd January. Nearly 40 exhibiting companies will be attending Toy Fair for the very first time, while 11 others - including some big names - are returning after time away from the show.

“Toy Fair 2018 was such a huge success,” enthuses Majen Immink, director of fairs & special events at the BTHA. “It was a great way to celebrate the 65th year of the show and we are looking forward to making Toy Fair 2019 just as successful. There are more than 270 exhibiting companies this year, some of which will be making a much-welcomed return to the show such as Lego and Wow! Stuff. We also have 38 exhibitors who will be experiencing Toy Fair for the very first time, including 3Style Scooters, The Toys Boys and Cloudberries. It’s fantastic to see so many new exhibitors dive into everything the show has to offer and become part of the Toy Fair family.”

Although firmly into its sixth decade, the BTHA continues to develop the show for the modern attendee, reflecting the changing nature of the business. To this effect, the association has announced a brand-new Content Creation Zone, which will be made available to vloggers and influencers at the show. This new, dedicated media area will give content creators the chance to get hands-on with some of the sought-after toys from

Toy Fair, as well as provide the tools needed to blog live from the show floor.

“We’re always looking for ways to improve Toy Fair,” Majen explains. “Last year we introduced Toy Fair’s Hero Toys, a prestigious award to celebrate the most innovative toys at the show. This year, we’re focusing on influencers with the brand-new Content Creation Zone. The landscape of media coverage has changed a lot over the last few years, so we’ve been working hard to give influencers and vloggers the tools to make the most of their time at Toy Fair and maximise the media reach of the show.

The Content Creation Zone is complete with seating area, demonstration space and a view of the whole show from the balcony, so it’s ideal for conducting interviews, toy reviews and pieces to camera. Slots can be booked at the Content Creation Zone on a first come, first served basis, so make sure you don’t miss out.”

Toy Fair’s Hero Toys returns for this year, having been welcomed with open arms at its debut.

Nominees for the prestigious award are selected by an independent panel of retailers and industry experts, and represent some of the most exciting and innovative products launched at Toy Fair. The awards provide one of the first opportunities to see these potentially best-selling toys before they are officially launched throughout the year.

“Toy Fair’s Hero Toys will be announced on the first day at the show,” says Majen. “These 25 toys will

Toy World 148

be available for all to see at the press office (Room 158, next to the TFTV Demo Zone and Toy Trust Coffee Lounge), so make sure you swing by during your visit to see the hottest toys of Toy Fair 2019.”

The winners of the prestigious Toy Retailer Awards will also be announced on day one of the show. A gala event, which takes place on the first evening of Toy Fair, is organised by the BTHA with the Toy Retailers Association (TRA), which will also present the Toy and Supplier Awards 2018 on the same evening. Nominations for the awards were invited from BTHA members’ sales directors, toy agents and national account directors, as well as toy retailers which were also invited to self-nominate.

Shortlisting was done by a panel of 15 people from across the industry - members of the BTHA Council, strategically based toy agents, sales and national account directors from around the UK and a representative from the leading toy trade magazine, Toy World. You can read more about each of the nominees on pages 92, 94 and 96 of this issue.

With so much to see at Toy Fair during the day, Majen recommends taking a break to enjoy a little screen time. “One of the best ways to discover the latest toys is by watching them on Toy Fair TV, our in-house television channel,” she says. “Over the three days of the show, Toy Fair TV covers everything from toy demonstrations to interviews with toy manufacturers and is broadcast on screens all over London’s Olympia. We’ll be giving another

Feature

Toy Fair 2019

warm welcome to presenters Anna and Gavin, who’ve become the well-known faces of Toy Fair TV over the years. They’ll be travelling around show floor as well as hosting the Demo Zone, where they’ll be joined by the toughest judges of all – kids themselves. In the Demo Zone, our kid testers get hands on with the hottest toys, with the help of the Toy Fair TV team.”

The Greenhouse Area continues to offer a flexible option in the middle of the Grand Hall for companies wishing to take a smaller space.

Introduced in 2004, the Greenhouse Area has proved extremely popular with new and small exhibitors and is usually sold out by late summer.

This year’s Greenhouse exhibitors include Green Elephant Trading, distributor of Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty and Waff World Gifts; Rachel Lowe, a licensing company that creates games and puzzles for film and television; and The Source Wholesale, a forward thinking gift and gadget company that focuses on design, innovation and fun.

“The Greenhouse Area allows exhibiting companies which require less space, or who are exhibiting for the first time, to really flourish,” Majen comments. “Every show, we get to see what the creative minds of these inventors and start-ups have achieved, which never fails to bring excitement. The Greenhouse Area is also a great stepping stone into a larger presence at Toy Fair.”

On the Thursday (24th January) the Apex Room will play host to the 9th Design Student Seminar. An

annual event organised by the BTHA, the seminar is aimed at current design students to encourage them to consider a career in the toy industry, and features presentations from leading industry experts. Talks cover diverse subjects from the process of designing a toy, to legal and IP protection. This year, speakers include Marisa Morgan, designer and owner of Illumiarti and consultant to Mattel, as well as David Fry from Agile IP, who will discuss the importance of protecting intellectual property, as well as Billy Langsworthy, co-founder of Mojo Nation.

“We’re delighted to host the ninth annual Student Design Seminar at Toy Fair this year,” says Rebecca Deeming, public relations manager for the BTHA. “The UK is renowned for its creative and innovative toy industry, and we’re proud to do our part in supporting our pipeline of talent from top universities.”

“The annual visit to the Toy Fair has become an essential calendar event, introducing our students to the amazing and varied world of toy design,” adds Philip Davies, associate professor and course director of Product & Furniture Design BA at Kingston University. “The talks provide direct knowledge of toy design, marketing and intellectual property protection, essential for the professional practice experience of our students. It’s an inspiring event that triggers the imagination of the next generation of toy designers.”

KidsOut will return as the official charity partner for Toy Fair 2019. A children’s charity that works

Toy World 150

with Women’s Aid Federation refuges across the UK, KidsOut provides positive experiences for children who have escaped domestic abuse.

As well as organising fun days out and toys for refuge playrooms, the charity also rehomes toys to children directly through the Toy Box Initiative.

“The relationship KidsOut has with Toy Fair and its exhibitors is essential in helping the charity bring fun and happiness to Britain’s most disadvantaged children,” explains Gordon Moulds, KidsOut CEO. “The children we provide relief for have often experienced physical, emotional and even sexual abuse, and often flee to refuges without any possessions. Industry support from Toy Fair goes a long way to showing these young people that someone does care, while bringing joy and a sense of normality back into their lives.”

2019 will be the fourth time KidsOut has hosted the Trolley Dash, which saw more than 4,000 toys collected at last year’s show. The drive will take place on the final day of Toy Fair, when volunteers from the charity will race across the show floor with empty shopping trolleys, gathering toys donated by exhibiting companies.

“The Trolley Dash is one of my favourite parts of the whole show,” admits Majen. “Volunteers will be running around the show, piling as many toys in their trolley as they can with the donations from our generous exhibitors. As something so close to all our hearts, it’s wonderful that we are able to give thousands of toys every year, thanks to the kindness

Join us at London Toy Fair @ Olympia 22, 23, 24 January 2019 Stand 520 Come and meet new and old friends alike, explore over 30 games from our new partner Drumond Park and discover exciting new launches Please contact TOMY Sales and Marketing to book an appointment

Feature

Toy Fair 2019

of our exhibitors. If you’re an exhibitor, keep an eye out at the end of day three if you want to add to the trolley.”

Visitors to the show can also take advantage of a number of special areas across the three days to enhance their experience. The Toy Fair offers all visitors and exhibitors the chance to take advantage of complimentary reflexology, an Indian head massage, or a simple head, shoulders and neck massage at the Relaxation Garden.

Readers are advised to book early each day to avoid disappointment. The BTHA Lounge is open to BTHA members who are exhibiting at the fair, as well as their guests. It is situated on the gallery edge overlooking the show and offers ample meeting

space, free wi-fi and complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

The Toymaster Lounge (limited entry to Toymaster members only) offers a cloakroom, complimentary wi-fi, experienced personnel to offer advice, and free tea/coffee facilities. It is located in Olympia’s London Room just off the main hall floor. Senior Toymaster officials will also be on hand throughout the show to answer questions from retailers interested in becoming a member. Readers can find out more about the independent toy buying group on pages 42 and 44 of this issue.

With so much to see and do, Majen stresses the need for careful Toy Fair planning. “Make sure you study the floor map and highlight which exhibitors

What's on at a glance

are your priority. There are companies of every size at Toy Fair, from the biggest names in the industry right the way through to start-ups. Whether you’re a buyer, exhibitor, or visitor, there is so much to do and explore. Having the UK toy industry in one place for three days creates the perfect environment to build those all-important business relationships, meet up with old friends and see what the industry has been working on over the past 12 months.”

Over the next pages, Toy World covers the best new toys that will be on show at Toy Fair, and where to find them. See you there – you can find us at the heart of the show on stand GH37, right on the main aisle.

Tuesday 22nd January: 9am – 6pm Press day – Character parade

Olympia, Kensington, London W14 8UX Grand Hall, West Hall, Upper West Hall and Gallery

Toy Fair Toy Heroes showcase – Opening morning, Press Office (Room 158) Toy Industry Awards gala event - 6pm Drinks reception - Pizza Express - 7pm Awards Presentation - Apex Room

Wednesday 23rd January: 9am – 6pm Thursday 24th January: 9am – 5.30pm The Design Student Seminar – Apex Room KidsOut charity Trolley Dash – Close of play (approx. 5pm)

Toy World 152

NEWed Them Kits!

r Supee Slimio!

Stud

x & Make Mi

NEW de a M e Pr ime!

Sl

VISIT STAND E119 TO SEE THE ALL NEW AW19 RANGE

165

GH67

GH65

Spin Master

Spin Master

153

E70

Ravensburger Ltd

G122

Funko UK

Wind Designs Ltd

H52

Siso Toys UK

DGL GROUP

G135

Big Potato

re:creation Ltd

G125 Canal Toys UK

West Hall Lounge G100

8th Wonder

H40

Indigo jamm Winning Moves

F110

John GmbH / Toys & Sporting Goods

Bliss Lanka Distribution Kade (UK) Ltd

H36Wicked

F100

F101

JWS

ORGANISERS

GH69

H30

F90

G90

Kidicraft Ltd

Tactic Games

Funrise

GH78

GH71 GH79

GH70

GH62 GH39

GH59

GH58 GH41

GH42

GH55 GH44

GH54 GH45

GH34

GH13

GH32 GH15

GH31

GH16

GH30 GH17

GH28 GH18

GH20

GH26 GH21

GH48 GH46

GH24 GH23

GH65

GH50 GH49

GH67

Press Office & Toy Fair's Hero Toys OFFICE

Dolu Toy Factory

G101

John Adams Leisure Limited

G110

Trends UK Ltd

Rainbow Designs

H42

ROLLPLAY

G115

155 The Elf on the Shelf TFTV Demo Zone

157

ORGANISERS Press Office & Toy Fair's Hero OFFICE Toys

158

GRAND GALLERY

TFTV Silverstream

STAIRS TO/FROM GALLERY

GH10

GH08

GH06

GH05

GH01

GH03 GH02

DKL Marketing Ltd

F66

Skip Hop

Intertek

G66

G65

Depesche UK Ltd.

H50

F50

Paul Lamond Games

TOBAR Group Trading Ltd

Accentuate Games Ltd

Marvin's Magic

H65

Wind Designs Ltd

H52 H46

Indigo jamm

F44

Jumbo Games

Star-Images

F40

F46

H39

H40

House of Marbles

Bigjigs Toys Limited

Trends UK Ltd

H42

Keycraft Global Ltd

Big Potato

GRAND GALLERY

F36

H20

F20

Plum

Wild Card Games

Cheatwell Games

F15 Thames and Kosmos

F16

F10

K-Play International University Games Ltd

G10

Interplay UK

H1

F1

Le Toy Van

GREENHOUSE EXHIBITORS

Smart Toys & Games F25

G22

The Happy Puzzle Company

Great Gizmos Limited

Kidicraft Ltd

G20

H30

Casdon Ltd

Technology Will Save Us

RED ROBIN TOYS

G25

G30

Insect Lore

Lanka Kade (UK) Ltd

H36

LEGO

OLYMPIA ROOM

Room Copenhagen A/S

Coiledspring Games

ToyNews

EDUK8 Worldwide Ltd

Cartamundi

Gibsons

WEST GROUND

COBI

Toys 'n' Playthings Magazine

Asmodee UK

Cartamundi

EDUK8 Worldwide Ltd

ToyNews

Toys 'n' Playthings Magazine

Fiesta Crafts

Halilit

Flying Gadgets

Battlefront Miniatures

Coiledspring Games

Vision E100 Ltd

H20 GH37

Room Copenhagen A/S

COBI

Big Potato

The Green Board Game Company Ltd

Spin Master

H46

Wild Card Games

GH36 GH11

SNAZAROO

GRAND GROUND

E70

GH01 SWAG Distribution E2 Padgett bros AtoZ ltd GH02 Lionstrike Footballs E50 E135 E30 E120 E20 E10 E115 E90 E16 E46 E130 E140 E66 E125 E40 GH03 Albion Hobbies 1 GH79 GH03 GH02 GH50 GH49 GH24 GH23 H50 H65 H39 VISITORS GH05 EasyRead Time Teacher ENTRANCE GH48 GH26 GH21 E99 E69 E131 E119 E39 E129 E109 E79 E35 E15 E21 E9 E89 GH01 H1E49 E149 GH06 3Style Scooters Marvin's Magic E151 E150 Great Gizmos Limited Depesche UK Ltd. Bigjigs Toys Limited Insect Lore GH78 GH46 Interplay UK GH08 Rainbow Eco Products Ltd E1 The Sales Partnership Ltd GH05 Brainstorm E152 TKC Sales Wilton Bradley Golden Bear Ltd GH10 Aardvark Swift Recruitment Limited GH20 Galt Toys G20 G10 G30 G65 GH11 WOW Toys H Grossman Ltd Flair Leisure Products Plc Accentuate Games Ltd IMC Toys GH13Melissa FOCO Learning Resources Spin Master Character Options & Doug UK D2 Mookie (UK) Ltd G66 GH54 GH45 GH28 GH18 G25 G22 D36 D20 G90 GH15 VAP Games GH06 TheD98 Happy Intertek D90 D109 RED ROBIN Puzzle GH16 RACHEL LOWE H42GH30 GH17 GH55 GH44 TOBAR TOYS Lanka GREENHOUSE EXHIBITORS Company Games Workshop K-Play gns Indigo Keycraft Global D35 Group Kade GH17 Clarendon Games D11 Trends UK Ltd International University Games House of Marbles nrise Plum jamm Ltd GH16 GH42 (UK) Ltd THE KidicraftTrading Ltd Posh Paws GH01 SWAG Distribution Ltd Technology Smart Toys & GH18 Green Bean Collection Skip Hop H30 H46 H20 H36 H40 Ltd C45 C42 GH08 TOYMASTER Wild Card Will Save Games Aurora World Ltd West GH31 GH02 Lionstrike Footballs F1 Games Us Ginger Fox GH20 The Toy Project Melissa & Doug, LLC F25 Design MEMBERS F20 F40 F46 F50 F10 VividF16 F36 F66 Products GH03 Albion Hobbies Jazwares Hornby GH21 Allsorted Ltd LEGO H39 LOUNGE Ltd Hobbies A.B.Gee of Ripley B149 B125 B121 Marbel B150 B130 B115 OLYMPIA ROOM GH05 EasyRead Keel ToysTime Teacher GH23 Eurofins GH32 GH15 GH58 GH41 F44 F90 F15 Legler OHG Zimpli H1 GH10 GH06 3Style Scooters Theo Klein Alpha Group UK GH24 Rawk Haven Games small foot Kids Thames and Star-Images Micro Scooters Ltd. Great pesche UK Ltd. Bigjigs Toys Limited Insect Lore Epoch Making toys Gizmos Limited Orchard toys company Ltd Interplay UK GH59 GH13 Make Time 2 Play Games JURATOYS Jonathan's Toys Ltd GH08 Kosmos Rainbow Eco Products Ltd GH26 juminiB20 B50 B70 Café B12 B100 B80 B60 B45 B35 B25 B90 DKL GH10 Aardvark Swift Recruitment Limited B40 GH28 B22MURO GH62 GH39 GH34 Casdon Ltd Cheatwell Games Toy Van G10 G30Marketing G20 Paul Lamond Games WOWLeB65 Toys B95 GH30 Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles B56 B85 B82 B75GH11 B49 STAIRS B18 B30 E2 Ltd Games GH37 GH36 GH11 Tasma Padgett bros AtoZ heo Jumbo Games TO/FROM Tonies UL VS LTD alilit GH13 FOCOPockos UKProducts GH31 Progressive Pre-School Magazine Ltd GALLERY ltd lexibook G25 G22 GH15 VAP Games GH32 The Source Wholesale Limited The E50 Happy E30 E20 E10 E90 E16 E46 E40 REDE66 ROBIN Puzzle GH16 RACHEL LOWE GH34 Naranja Minimalista TOBAR TOYS Company K-Play GREENHOUSE EXHIBITORS VISITORS Keycraft Global Group GH17 Clarendon Games MV Sports & GH36 Leisure Ltd Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services International University Games House of Marbles Plum Ltd Trading ENTRANCE Ltd Technology Smart Toys & GH18 Green Bean Collection GH01 SWAG Distribution GH37 Toy World Ltd H20 E89 E79 E35 E15 E69Will Save E49 E39 E21 E9 Games Wild Card Us GH20 The Toy Project GH02 Lionstrike Footballs GH39 Freod Games Games F1 F25 F20 F40 F46 F10 F36 F16 GH21 Allsorted Ltd LEGO GH03 Albion Hobbies GH41 UGears Mechanical Models E1 The Sales Partnership Ltd OLYMPIA ROOM Brainstorm GH23 Eurofins GH05 EasyRead Time Teacher GH42 Green Elephant Trading Bradley Golden Bear F15 LtdF44 H1 Galt Toys GH24 Rawk Haven Games GH06Thames 3Style GH44 Cloudberries and Scooters Star-Images s Limited Kosmos Interplay UK GH26 jumini GH08 Flair Rainbow Eco Products Ltd GH45 Strictly Briks H Grossman Ltd Leisure Products Plc GH28 MURO GH10 Aardvark Swift Recruitment Limited GH46 Stora Enso Biocomposites Casdon Ltd Cheatwell Games amond Games Le Toy Van Learning Resources Melissa & Doug G10 D2 GH30 Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles GH11 WOW Toys GH48 Mojo-Nation E2 Padgett bros AtoZ Jumbo Games D36 D20 GH31 Progressive Pre-School Magazine GH13 FOCO UK GH49 Risk & Rewards Board Games ltd D90 GH32 The Source Wholesale Limited GH15 VAP Games GH50 Five Stars H.K. Ltd E30 E20 E10 E16 E46 E40 GH34 Naranja GH16 RACHEL LOWE GH54 Magic Box D11 Minimalista D35 VISITORS K-Play GREENHOUSE EXHIBITORS GH36 Bureau Veritas Consumer Products THE Services GH17 Clarendon Games GH55 KRASATOYS International University Games Plum Posh Paws ENTRANCE Ltd GH37 Toy World Bean Collection GH58 Piqipi Limited GH01 SWAG Distribution E35 E49 E39 E21GH18 E9 C45E15 Green C42 TOYMASTER Aurora World Ltd West GH39 Freod GH20 The Toy Project GH59 Alphabet Pie GH02 F10Lionstrike Footballs F1 Melissa & Doug, LLCGames Design MEMBERS F16 Vivid GH41 UGears Mechanical Models GH21 LEGO GH62 Getretro.co.uk GH03 Albion Hobbies Products Allsorted Ltd E1 The Sales Partnership Ltd Hornby LOUNGE OLYMPIA ROOM GH42 Green Elephant Trading Ltd GH23 Eurofins GH65 Xiamen Chituo Imp. & Exp. Co.,Ltd. GH05 EasyRead Time Teacher Hobbies of Ripley F15 Marbel GaltA.B.Gee Toys Games Keel Toys GH44 Cloudberries GH24 Rawk Haven GH67 LaQ GH06 3Style Scooters Thames and Zimpli Kosmos GH45 Strictly Briks GH26 jumini GH69 My Little World Limited GH08 Rainbow Eco Products Ltd sman Flair Leisure Products Plc Theo Klein GroupLtd UK Kids Micro Scooters GH46 Ltd. MURO GH70 OTL Technologies GH10 Aardvark Swift Recruitment Limited Melissa & Doug GH28 OrchardStora toys Enso Biocomposites Ltd Learning Resources eatwell Games Jonathan's Toys LtdLe Toy Van D2 GH48 Mojo-Nation GH71 The Toys Boys Ltd GH11 WOW Toys B50D20GH30 Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles E2 B70 B20 D36 B22 B12 Padgett bros AtoZ B80 B60 B45 B35 B25 B40 GH49 Risk & Rewards Board Games GH31 Progressive Pre-School Magazine GH78 Norman Global Logistics Ltd GH13 FOCO UK ltd GH50 Five Stars H.K. Ltd GH32 The Source Wholesale Limited GH79 Schaefer Toy Company GmbH GH15 VAP Games E10B75 B65 B56 B85 B82 E16 B49 B18 GH54 Magic Box B30 GH34 Naranja Minimalista GH16 D11 D35 Tasma Pockos VISITORS heo RACHEL LOWE Tonies UL VS LTD Products Ltd GH55 KRASATOYS GH36 Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services GH17 Clarendon Games THE lexibook ENTRANCE GH58 Piqipi Limited GH37 Toy World Collection Aurora World Ltd E15C45GH18C42Green Bean E21 TOYMASTER E9 West GH59 Alphabet Pie GH39 Freod Games GH20 The Toy Project Melissa & Doug, LLC Design MEMBERS GH62 Getretro.co.uk GH41 UGears Mechanical Models GH21 Allsorted Ltd E1 GO Products Hornby artnership Ltd LOUNGE Ltd A ROOM GH65 Xiamen Chituo Imp. & Exp. Co.,Ltd. GH23 Eurofins Hobbies GH42 Green Elephant Trading MV Sports & Leisure Ltd A.B.Gee of Ripley Marbel Toys GH67 LaQ GH44 Cloudberries GH24 GaltRawk Haven Games Zimpli GH69 My Little World Limited GH45 Strictly Briks GH26 jumini Theo Klein Kids Micro ScootersMURO Ltd. GH70 OTL Technologies GH46 Stora Biocomposites GH28 Orchard Enso toys Ltd ssa & Doug D2 GH71 The Toys Boys Ltd GH30 Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles B50 B20GH48 Mojo-Nation B22 B12

GH69

yISERS Fair's Hero sICE

157 155 The Elf on TFTV Demo Zone the Shelf

Retailers Association

UPPER WEST

Toy Trust Coffee Lounge

160

TFTV Silverstream

Mindpower

162 Max

D GALLERY

178 Chaperone Lounge

175 Thought Machine

STC Testing, Inspection and Certification

The Northern Testhouse Leicester Ltd

The Green Board Game Company Ltd

150 Toy

The Green Board Game Company Ltd

149

Gibsons

Cartamundi EDUK8 Worldwide Ltd

ToyNews

SNAZAROO

Toys 'n' Playthings Magazine

Fiesta Crafts

Cartamundi

EDUK8 Worldwide Ltd

ToyNews

Toys 'n' Playthings Magazine

Fiesta Crafts

Toy World 154

COBI

Coiledspring Games

The Green Board Game Company Ltd

Gibsons

SNAZAROO

GH01 GH02 GH03 GH05 GH06 GH08 GH10 GH11 GH13 GH15 GH16 GH17 GH18 GH20 GH21 GH23 GH24 GH26 GH28 GH30 GH31 GH32 GH34 GH36 GH37 GH39 GH41 GH42 GH44 GH45 GH46 GH48 GH49 GH50 GH54 GH55 GH58 GH59 GH62 GH65 GH67 GH69 GH70 GH71 GH78 GH79

S Lio Alb Ea 3S Ra Aa W FO VA RA Cl Gr Th All Eu Ra ju M Lar Pr Th Na Bu To Fr U Gr Cl Str St Mo Ris Fiv Ma KR Piq Alp Ge Xia La My OT Th No Sc

GREEN

VISIT US AT TOY FAIR!

STAND GH01

GET IN THE LOOP!

THE ULTIMATE SKILL BUILDING TOY FOR SUMMER 2019! sales@swagdistribution.co.uk www.swagdistribution.co.uk 0121 3891 092

An opposable thumb for your phone!

Exhibitors

Stand Number

3Style Scooters

GH6

8th Wonder

G110

A.B.Gee of Ripley

B40

Aardvark Swift Recruitment Limited

GH10

Accentuate Games

G65

Albion Hobbies

GH3

Allsorted

GH21

Alpha Group UK

B90

Alphabet Pie

GH59

Amerang

Gallery 215

Asmodee UK

E109

Aurora World

D35

Bandai UK

Gallery 600

Battlefront Miniatures

D98

Big Potato

H46

Bigjigs Toys Limited

H39

BinaryBots

Gallery 505

Bladez Toyz

Gallery 123

Bliss Distribution

F100

Brainstorm

E79

BTHA Exhibiting Members Lounge

Gallery 205

Bubblegum Stuff

Gallery 162

Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services

GH36

Canal Toys UK

G125

Cartamundi

H1

Casdon

E30

Character Options

E119

Cheatwell Games

E20

Clarendon Games

GH17

Clementoni

Gallery 140

Click Distribution (UK)

Gallery 120

Cloud b

Gallery 310

Cloudberries

GH44

Cobi

B22

Coiledspring Games

E35

Deco-Pak

Gallery 325

Depesche UK

H50

DGL GROUP

G135

DKL Marketing

E66

Dolu Toy Factory

G101

EasyRead Time Teacher

GH5

EDUK8 Worldwide

F1

The Elf on The Shelf

Gallery 155

Ephemeris

Gallery 320

Epoch Making toys

B130

Eurofins

GH23

Five Stars

GH50

Flair Leisure Products Plc

E39

Flying Gadgets

B95

FoCo UK

GH13

Freod Games

GH39

Funko UK

E130

Funrise

G90

Galt Toys

E9

Games Workshop

D109

Geomag

Gallery 501

Getretro.co.uk

GH62

Gibsons

E40

Ginger Fox/Milly&Flynn

B115

Golden Bear

E69

Great Gizmos Limited

G20

Great Inflate

Gallery 147

Green Bean Collection

GH18

The Green Board Game Company

E15

Green Elephant Trading

GH42

H Grossman Ltd

E49

Halilit

E90

Hasbro UK Ltd

Gallery Suites

heo

B75

Toy World 156

Exhibitors

Stand Number

Hippychick

Gallery 305

Hornby Hobbies

B20

Hornit

Gallery 122

House of Marbles

F40

idance

Gallery 420

iimo

Gallery 315

IMC Toys (UK)

E129

Indigo jamm

H40

Insect Lore

G30

Interplay UK

G10

Intertek

G66

J Perkins

Gallery 312

Jazwares

B100

John Adams Leisure

G100

John GmbH / Toys & Sporting Goods

F110

Jonathan's Toys

B80

Jumbo Games

E46

Jumini

GH26

Juratoys

B121

JWS

F101

K-Play International Ltd

F16

K'Nex UK

Gallery 510

Kapla

Gallery 143

Keel Toys

B60

Keycraft Global

F46

Kidicraft

H30

Kids@Play

Gallery 180

KidsOut

Gallery 306

Theo Klein

B25

Krasatoys

GH55

Lanka Kade (UK)

H36

LaQ

GH67

Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles

GH30

Laser Beam Eyes

Gallery 126

Le Toy Van

E10

Learning Resources

D36

Legler OHG small foot company

B125

Lego

Olympia Room

Lexibook

B18

Lionstrike Footballs

GH2

Magformers UK

Gallery 540

Magic Box

GH54

Manobesaz

Gallery 316

Marbel

B50

Marvin's Magic

H65

Melissa & Doug

D11 & D20

Merlin Games

GH71

Micro Scooters

B45

Miss Nella

GH72

Mojo Nation

GH48

Mookie

E149

MTW Toys

Gallery 105

Muro

GH28

MV Sports & Leisure

B30

My Little World Limited

GH69

N Smith Packaging & Display

Gallery 124

Naranja Minimalista

GH34

Natmark Distribution

Gallery 150

Norman Global Logistics

GH78

The Northern Testhouse Leicester

Gallery 149

The NPD Group

Gallery 146

Orchard toys

B12

OTL Technologies

GH70

Oxford Diecast

Gallery 195

Padgett Bros AtoZ

E16

Papo UK

Gallery 128

Paul Lamond Games

E50

Petron

Gallery 308

Piqipi

GH58

Playmobil (UK)

Gallery 210

Toy World 157

Exhibitors

Stand Number

Plum

F20

Pockos

B65

PopJam

GH74

Posh Paws

D90

Progressive Pre-School Magazine

GH31

Rachel Lowe

GH16

Rainbow Designs

E120

Rainbow Eco Products

GH8

Ravensburger

E140

Rawk Haven Games

GH24

Re:creation

E125

Red Knight Toy Group

Gallery 148

Red Robin Toys

G25

Revell

Gallery 110

Risk & Rewards Board Games

GH49

Rollplay

G115

Roma

Gallery 144

Room Copenhagen A/S

B82

The Sales Partnership

E21

Sambro International

Gallery 400

Schaefer Toy Company

GH79

Schleich

Gallery 100

Seatzac

Gallery 650

SES Creative

Gallery 102

Siso Toys UK

E135

Skip Hop

F66

Smart Toys & Games

F25

SnapDragon

Gallery 200

The Source Wholesale

GH32

Spin Master

E131

Star-Images

F44

STC - Testing, Inspection and Certification

Gallery 165

Strictly Briks

GH45

Stora Enso Biocomposites

GH46

Swag Distribution

GH1

Tactic Games

F90

Tasma Products

B56

Technology Will Save Us

F36

Thames + Kosmos

F15

The Happy Puzzle Company

G22

The Toy Project

GH20

The Toymaster Members Lounge

London Room

Thinkgeek

Gallery 202

Thought Machine

Gallery 175

TKC Sales

E99

Tobar Group Trading

F50

Tomy

Gallery 520

Tonies

B85

Toy World

GH37

ToyNews

E2

Toys 'n' Playthings Magazine

E1

Trends UK

H42

Turner Media Innovations Lounge

Gallery 130

TUV Rheinland

Gallery 218

Ty UK

Gallery 119

UGears Mechanical Models

GH41

UL VS

B49

University Games

F10

VAP games

GH15

Vivid

B70

VR Distribution UK

Gallery 145

VTech/LeapFrog

Gallery 500

West Design Products

C45

Wicked Vision

E100

Wild Card Games

H20

Wilton Bradley

E89

Wind Designs

H52

Winning Moves

E115

Wow! Stuff

Gallery 190

Wow Toys

GH11

Xiamen Chituo Imp. & Exp. Co.

GH65

Zimpli Kids

B35

Toy World 158

Greenhouse Exhibitors Exhibitors

Stand Number

GH1

Swag Distribution

GH2

Lionstrike Footballs

GH3

Albion Hobbies

GH5

EasyRead Time Teacher

GH8

3Style Scooters

GH10

Aardvark Swift

GH11

Wow Toys

GH13

FoCo UK

GH15

Vap Games

GH16

Rachel Lowe

GH17

Clarendon Games

GH18

Green Bean Collection

GH20

The Toy Project

GH21

Allsorted

GH23

Eurofins

GH24

Rawk Haven Games

GH26

Jumini

GH28

Muro

GH30

Larsen Jigsaw Puzzles

GH31

Progressive Pre-School Magazine

GH32

The Source Wholesale

GH34

Naranja Minimalista

GH36

Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Service

GH37

Toy World

GH39

Freod Games

GH41

Ugears Mechanical Models

GH42

Green Elephant Trading

GH44

Cloudberries

GH45

Strictly Briks

GH46

Stora Enso Biocomposites

GH48

Mojo Nation

GH49

Risk & Reward Board Games

GH50

Five Stars H.K.

GH54

Magic Box

GH55

Krasatoys

GH58

Piqipi

GH59

Alphabet Pie

GH62

Getretro.co.uk

GH65

Xiamen Chituo Imp. & Exp. Co

GH67

LaQ

GH69

My Little World

GH70

OTL Technologies

GH71

The Toys Boys

GH78

Norman Global Logistics

GH79

Schaefer Toy Company

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Toy World 160

545

Upper West Café

320

iDance

iimo 315 312

TOMY

GOSH Designs part of the PMS International Group plc

654

520

540

Magformers UK Limited

420

316

Petron 308

KidsOut

650 Seatzac

510

K'NEX UK a Division of Basic Fun

Cloud b

310

UPPER WEST

325

Deco-Pak Ephemeris Manobesaz

J Perkins

306

Geomag

Bandai UK Ltd

600

VTech/LeapFrog

505

BinaryBots

500

501

Sambro International LTD

400

305 Hippychick

fighting fakes online

200 SnapDragon:

BTHA Exhibiting Members Lounge

205

Playmobil (UK) Ltd.

210

Amerang

215

TUV Rheinland

218

Schleich 100

202 THINKGEEK

Relaxation Garden 220

Zone

198 Content Creation

195

105

GH70

GH69

GH65

Wow! Stuff

GH67

190

MTW Toys SA

Oxford Diecast Ltd

SES Creative B.V.

102

110

Revell GmbH

180

Click Distribution (UK) Ltd. 120 Bladez Toyz 123

178 Chaperone Lounge

175 Thought Machine

HORNIT 122

STC Testing, Inspection and Certification

165

124

N Smith Packaging & Display

Mindpower

162 Max

126

Wind Designs Ltd H52

Big Potato

H46

Trends UK Ltd

H42

128

Papo UK

H40

Indigo jamm

Lanka Kade (UK) Ltd

H36

Toy Trust Coffee Lounge

160

Laser Beam Eyes Ltd

GRAND GALLERY

Kids@Play Ltd

STAIRS TO/FROM GALLERY

119

Ty UK Ltd

H30

Kidicraft Ltd

Clementoni

157 155 The Elf on TFTV Demo Zone the Shelf

140

H20

Wild Card

Press Office & Toy Fair's Hero Toys

158

130

Turner Media Innovations Lounge

153 TFTV Silverstream

148

147

The NPD Group

146

145

VR Distribution UK

Roma

144

KAPLA

143

Great Inflate Retailers Association

The Northern Testhouse Leicester Ltd

150 Toy

149

Kn Red ig G Toy ht ro up

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Toy Fair 2019

The greatest show A selection of Toy Fair exhibitors spoke to Toy World about the highlights of their new ranges, the challenges and successes they are expecting from 2019 and the main focus for their business right now.

Anthony Temple

Nic Aldridge

2018 has been a great year. We seem to have bucked the trend and have had our best year to date. The Peter Rabbit Movie release in the spring was a great start to the year. We then launched our new Classic Paddington collection ready for the 60th Anniversary activities in October and the last few months of 2018 have been all about the 40th Anniversary of The Snowman. We also launched our new website, which has been exceptionally well received and is proving a fantastic platform for showcasing our products and a great asset for retailers.

We have a number of exciting new collections launching this year.

2019 is the 50th Anniversary of Eric Carle’s classic storybook, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and as part of our plans we are introducing a completely new collection called The Tiny and Very Hungry Caterpillar that focuses on toys and gifts specifically for the newborn to 18 months age range. We also have a fun and exciting new collection starring the characters from the renowned Usborne Book series; That’s Not My… There are also two eagerly anticipated Disney movies premiering this year, so we are also looking forward to presenting our new Disney Baby Dumbo and Lion King collections at Toy Fair.

One of the biggest challenges that the toy industry has faced during 2018 is the continuous turbulence across the high street with closures and mergers of many stores and businesses. With the political challenges that Britain is currently facing and the uncertainty and instability this brings, this has the potential to affect 2019 in much the same way.

In recent years, Bandai UK’s portfolio had been focused on one brand – Power Rangers – but 2018 saw that shift with some of our strongest new brand introductions, which will continue into 2019. Despite the toy industry climate and impact of the loss of Toys R Us, we managed to achieve good growth in 2018 and are anticipating strong growth this year after entering five new product categories, and with a number of new brand launches planned for later this year.

Bandai UK continues to evolve its portfolio, and this will be the first Toy Fair where Power Rangers will not form part of our business; instead we have lots of exciting new brands to present as well as extensions to existing successful brands such as Pomsies and Smooshy.

We’ll be showcasing of our full-year Robozuna range, which launches at Easter. Initial signs of the TV viewing figures are extremely encouraging, and the mixed media format of support has been received fantastically well by the retail trade so far. Bandai UK will also be expanding its games offering with a mix of new arcade-style games and our first foray into electronic board games driving some innovation into the category. We’ll also be presenting some exciting Bandai IP developments, such as Pretty Pixels and Dragonball, in addition to our ever-expanding Collector Range.

London Toy Fair is the first opportunity to reconvene with retailers and licensors following Hong Kong, allowing us to finalise plans with customer for spring/summer 2019 and discuss all the new brands being introduced for autumn/winter. It’s also the perfect opportunity for us to lock down all activity going forward for autumn/winter with the majors before they head into the selection process.

Additionally, Toy Fair presents the first opportunity to show our full range to our growing independent customer base; to start conversations and the planning process for business in the year ahead. This obviously continues throughout the year at the other key trade fairs. We’re confident of a strong reception to our new portfolio of brands, and trust that customers and licensors will leave the show with a great impression of Bandai UK and what we can deliver for them in 2019. Ultimately, of course, we’ll be aiming to generate business for 2019 with both mass and independent customers.

Rainbow Designs

Managing director, Bandai

Kingsley Li

Business development manager, Rollplay We will show three brand new products in London, including new items in the high performance and electric ride-on categories. We will also be showcasing the new BMW Series 8 and a refreshed version of the BMW i8.

Toy Fair provides a great opportunity to meet our London customers. Our products speak for themselves, and Toy Fair allows our customers to view them in detail and to meet our team directly. We are looking forward to meeting new customers and interested buyers, and demonstrating the quality of the products we offer.

Toy World 162

FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT 01235 555545 OR EMAIL TRADE_SALES@VTECH.COM

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Toy Fair 2019

Paul Fogarty VP Europe, K’Nex

Despite the state of the overall market, we ended the year 5% up. The core K’Nex line has been very resilient to the market downturn, and we are seeing good growth in the Kid K’Nex line. We also have some early 2019 launches from Basic Fun that are attracting a lot of attention.

Outside of a new and rejuvenated K’Nex line, we will be showcasing the latest from Basic Fun. Cutetitos are expected to be a real star of the show. The initial launch in the USA has been fantastic and we have a lot of development as we move forward into autumn/winter. Our latest food-craze driven product, Little Lucky Lunchbox, will also be on show. More than just a food collectible, these toys have a really cool collectible Tin Lunchbox to keep them in. Basic Fun has completely overhauled the Uncle Milton Science line and we will have some hot licensed science items, with Frozen and The Avengers alongside Dr Steve - a line of museum-quality excavation kits which feature some fantastic innovation. Retro toys will also feature heavily with Fisher Price, My Little Pony and Lite Brite. We are seeing this market trend grow both internationally and in the UK too.

Toy Fair is simply the best place to meet with all our customers, from single store owners right through to the majors. For K’Nex it’s also the one chance we can get to really showcase the scale and movement of our product line, and emphasise how this can be merchandised to drive sales. The fair is also a great opportunity to get feedback from customers. I’ll then take all this feedback, be it positive, neutral or negative, and use it to create stronger and better-executed plans that will drive our business forward.

Mike Gascoigne

National account manager, Wilton Bradley 2018 has been another strong year for Wilton Bradley. The great summer weather led to growth in our summer brands and a very positive trading period for our customers. Heading into the busy Christmas period there was a lot of positivity for our new products, and we are really pleased with their success.

We saw the demise of some high profile retailers in 2018, with many more facing store closures, and I fear that this trend is likely to continue into 2019. The changing retail landscape, the continued growth of online shopping and the uncertainty over Brexit will no doubt create challenges for manufacturers and distributors alike this year.

Wilton Bradley has a number of great new lines to add to its portfolio for 2019. The Xootz Typhoon Power Drifter is set to be one of our key new items, as well as the X-Factor Karaoke Disco Cube and Mini Monster Smash-Ups. Within Bestway we have some really exciting new sub-brands including Float’n Fashion, The Art Collection and a partnership with Slime Baff, which will bring the slime craze into 2019 with Swim N’ Slime pools and slides.

Nici Wilcox

Managing director, Green Elephant Trading We’re pleased with how 2018 has gone, considering the current retail climate. 2017 was phenomenal for us, as was Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty worldwide, and sales remain steady going into 2019.

At London Toy Fair we’ll be two launching new brands into the UK for 2019. Waff Worldwide Gifts is a high quality, colourful and fun range of interactive stationery, while Constructive Eating is a truly unique range of children’s eating utensils. We are really looking forward to showcasing these new brands alongside the latest creations from Crazy Aaron’s.

Political uncertainty and the effect this is having on the value of sterling is making pricing for 2019 very challenging.

Also, the unfair advantage that Amazon and eBay sellers have over reputable bricks & mortar retailers is increasingly concerning.

There are many issues that need to be urgently addressed in order to legislate for the rapidly changing retail landscape.

Barry Hughes Golden Bear

2018 has seen a resurgence for In The Night Garden and Hey Duggee within our pre-school portfolio, whilst the likes of Mr Tumble and My First JCB have also grown, despite a challenging retail climate. Paint Sation has become number one brand within paint kits, and we have also had strong international growth with Bush Baby World.

We are very excited to be launching our range of Bing Bunny toys at Toy Fair. Bing, alongside Hey Duggee and Waffle the Wonder Dog, constantly top the BBC iPlayer charts, which I think is a great indicator of the level of engagement the shows have with kids and parents. We have high hopes for the Bing range across both plush and plastics. There is a new feature plush for Hey Duggee which I am sure will make everyone smile, and Waffle the Wonder Dog has started off to sell out success in Q4 2018, so we will be expanding the range. Outside of pre-school we have new ranges of Bush Baby World toys, as well as Funlockets and Pups in Surprise Cups which launch in spring/summer 2019.

I think the biggest challenge facing the toy industry in 2019 is, quite simply, uncertainty of exchange rates.

Toy World 164

WELCOME!

Visit us at The Toy Fair 22nd - 24th January,

Stand F90, Olympia London.

Tactic Games Oy | www.tactic.net | info@tactic.net | +358 (0) 2624 4144

touchingbase

Toy Fair 2019

Julia Cake

Commercial director, Magic Box Toys We have seen record sales for 2018 following the launch of SuperZing series 1 and 2, and we are up 48% versus 2017. Collectibles continue to drive the market growth and we are thrilled to have appeared in the Top 10 New Properties category from NPD for the first time.

Magic Box is excited to be showcasing SuperZings Series 3, which brings articulation, innovation and a bit of tech to collectibles, as well as our stunning ‘emotions’ based collectible IP, MojiPops. Toy Fair is a great opportunity to showcase the full toy range, especially our play sets; these really bring our collectibles into the core toy category.

London Toy Fair is one of the key trading shows of the year, and one in which we need to be showing our new ranges in order to expand distribution into the toy arena. Our aim is to secure MojiPops firmly within the toy channel, and for our SuperZings partners to have seen Series 3. The main aim is to emphasise how serious we are about our toys and play sets in the toy channel, and the show will also be a good opportunity to meet buyers from all sectors.

Meriç Pekcan-Butcher Marketing manager, Interplay

Despite a challenging 2018, we have proven our brands to be consistent, classic performers and we have extended distribution even in these tough market conditions. We are excited about the increased growth potential for both PlayMonster and Interplay through new and incremental product categories. This year, we are looking to grow our brands in UK and international markets.

2019 is likely to be a challenging year along with the changes in consumer behaviour and confidence due to political and economic factors and the effects of all these on the retail industry worldwide.

We are introducing three new products into the My Fairy Garden range, including Fairy Kitchen Garden, a beautiful playset where children can also grow delicious and healthy microgreens to eat. It sure to be a hit among parents as well as children. We are also very excited about the launch of the new FabLab Tie Dye Luxury kit, which is supported by a fantastic TV campaign, and we’re preparing for the big re-launch of the Fuzzikins range. This will include new packaging and product introductions across everyday low price point items and higher-priced craft & play sets.

Finally, we’re launching a new and exciting brand called Face Paintoos; easy to apply and remove face tattoos.

Stewart Middleton Sales director, IMC Toys

Last year was challenging and didn’t result in the growth we initially forecast. However, within a challenging retail landscape we have had some strong successes within our core portfolio.

Cry Babies continues to perform strongly in the doll category and this autumn/winter we launched our new collectible range, Cry Babies Magic Tears. Magic Tears is off to a great start, especially considering the strength of other collectibles in the market. In addition to the success we’ve seen on toy sales, the web series continues to out-perform our expectations; it’s currently the No. 2 most watched programme on Ketchup TV and has over 14.5m episode views on YouTube. With series 2 launching spring/ summer 2019, we have big plans for this brand going forward.

We have a new Cry Babies doll which I can’t say too much about, but I can reveal that it has some amazing features and lots of play value, making it one to look out for at Toy Fair. We have some new Magic Tears vehicles and play sets launching which will drive the range forward, and we’re also launching several new feature plush toys in the Club Petz brand. These will build on the success of Betsy last year, as they offer something different to what is currently on the market.

The biggest challenges this year will be the continuation of lower consumer spending, the longevity of new licences and how long they will be supported at retail, and ensuring wide enough distribution for new launches.

Toy World 166

Paul Dearlove

Trade marketing manager, Schleich It’s been a year of positive change for Schleich; we welcomed a new head of UK with the arrival of Thomas Randrup, and our sales team has been strengthened further. As a result, we experienced record growth in tough market conditions during 2018 to achieve our best ever results. With our new structure now in place for the ambitious targets the company has for the next few years, we believe we are in a great place for 2019.

There’s still a lot of uncertainty in the marketplace which can lead to both retailers and suppliers being over cautious, but that’s not the case at Schleich. Although we have an evergreen product, the way the brand identities within the ranges have been developed means we’re able to move with the times and keep things fresh.

Investing in greater marketing support, including TV advertising and event sponsorship, has to be part of the agenda as well.

There are so many new products we’re looking forward to launching. The new Pony Agility set in Farm World is the perfect example of a play set with instant play appeal, and the Wild Life Flash Cards add a new dimension to learning. There’s some very impressive new Dinosaurs that fans will be keen to collect, and we’re also delighted to be launching the new Horse Club Rider Café. I’m also really looking forward to showing the new POS displays and revealing our marketing plans for 2019, which will really make a difference at retail.

touchingbase

Toy Fair 2019

Graham Canning Sales director, VTech

2018 has been a positive trading year for VTech, particularly in a year of market change. It has been a tough retail environment with the well-documented exit of Toys R Us, but the key has been to keep doing what we do well - making and selling great toys.

The LeapFrog brand has also been growing in 2018, which has been a great help as well.

We will be showcasing over 100 new products at London Toy Fair. In addition to some fantastic brand new ranges, VTech Baby will see the introduction of the Hop-a-Roo Kangaroo, which is a motorised kangaroo that hops forward and encourages children to move with them. In addition to this, the Learn & Dance Dino will be added to the VTech Toddler range. Children will be able to customise the dinosaur using nine action plates that will affect the dino's voice, emotions and dancing style. Across the LeapFrog range, we will be showing two amazing new role-play toys that will sit alongside the incredibly popular Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart.

Confidence is needed right now; confidence in the macro environment and that the on-going political issues will be resolved, confidence in the retail environment, and confidence from the consumer that they are going to spend their money on toys.

Mark Hunt

Marketing Manager, Character Options Our key brands such as Peppa Pig, Little Pets, Teletubbies and Stretch remain in demand and have performed very well. Our core portfolio has been complemented by trend driven lines such as Soft N’ Slo Squishies, Odditeez and Cra-Z-Slimy Creations, with new product being launch throughout the year to meet the ever-changing demand of the consumer. We also have three major launches in December with Boxy Girls, Mighty Beanz and Peppa Pig Surprise hitting shelves before Christmas.

Slimi Café is the new, innovative Soft N’ Slo line that will rejuvenate the Squishy sector…it’s simply brilliant. We are celebrating 15 years of Peppa with the release of our strongest range to date; we have a total refresh on the packaging and have just launched Peppa’s Secret Surprise, which brings the on-trend unboxing play pattern into the pre-school category, while in autumn/winter we have a brand-new Deluxe Car, a huge Wooden Family Home and an impressive Stage Playset. Our 2019 product portfolio is our biggest yet and we can’t wait to showcase all our new ranges in London.

Rob Fort

Sales director, Tactic Games UK 2018 has been a good year for Tactic. We had a number of successful launches in the summer including Molkky, which was already hugely popular in Finland and on the continent. In the height of the heatwave its ranking went up 3000% on Amazon, which was also driven by its TV debut on This Morning.

Our product portfolio will cover a number of new launches suitable for a range of ages, including Mud Party - a unique drop and splat action board game; Don’t Upset the Llama, in which players must be quick and be right to avoid getting sprayed; and Faces, the party game for people who love to judge other people. In addition, Tactic will have a larger stand to allow us to showcase the ever-expanding Lumo ranges which include some great new merchandising opportunities.

Toy Fair will be the shop window at which we’ll demonstrate the continued new direction we are going in, whilst still staying true to our values of bringing people together. We hope to demonstrate to all the buyers there that our products offer both quality and value for money, whatever the age range - whether it be children, families, teens or adults.

Debra Tiffany

Marketing manager, Brainstorm It’s been another cracking year for Brainstorm. As well as adding successful new lines to our Brainstorm Toys collection, we launched StikBot Dinos which has been a huge seller for us. We’ve also been working hard on product development with a view to launching more ranges in 2019.

Many issues that present themselves in the news are often then reflected in the challenges we face as an industry, as we’re creating products for the next generation. The reduction of plastic is a big challenge for us all, as well as creating diverse product lines. Of course, the issue of Brexit still looms large and we must all prepare to adapt to whatever challenges will accompany any deal that is made (or no deal at all, as the case may be.)

Toy Fair is the perfect platform to showcase new products and gauge industry reaction. We’re excited about launching Eugy, a brand new eco-friendly arts and crafts range created by the New Zealand toy company Dodoland. We are also bringing StikBot Monsters to the show – we know already that this will be a huge range for 2019, and due to the level of demand we released some stock pre-Christmas. Thanks to Zing, which is a brilliant innovator, the range just gets better and better, and it will continue to be a key line for us next year.

Toy World 168

touchingbase

Toy Fair 2019

Florian Loh

Area sales manager, Bruder Last year was one of great success for Bruder. The company not only maintained its elevated level of turnover but also managed to achieve further growth within the domestic and international markets.

We are pleased to announce that the increasingly popular Bruder bworld series will be welcoming an original innovation this year. The concept, which offers realistic background elements in order to support themed play, will encourage kids to embrace even more imagination. Each bworld scenery set makes countless themes accessible; for example, a police station, a medical station, a motorcycle service centre or a horse barn. Combining one theme with another is also possible, extending the play possibilities even further.

For fans of forestry Bruder will be introducing two tractor-trailer combinations for spring, the Massey Ferguson 7480 with front-loader and timber transport trailer, and the John Deere 7930 with forestry trailer and four trunks.

The agriculture play world is rounded off with a completely functional bale gripper including one round bale, which is suitable for all tractors with front-loaders. For construction there is a Cat Skid Steer Loader, while the MB Arocs truck comes with a roll-off container and a Schaeff HR16 mini-excavator.

Generally speaking, Brexit and its implications when doing business with the UK is certainly one of the biggest challenges facing the toy industry at the moment.

Clive Wooster UK country manager, Geomag

Last year was certainly tough but ultimately we've grown pretty much as we forecast. The loss of Toys R Us was, to a certain extent, offset by our increased presence in the indie sector and growing stockists within national retailers. Updated ranges have helped of course, making sure we have a dynamic and evolving group of top 10 best-sellers each year.

Our Mechanics Gravity range has not stayed on the shelves for long this year; we've been delighted with the sales so we will be adding to that range for 2019.

MagiCube, our pre-school range, has a great new theme for this year, but visitors will have to come to our stand to view it for themselves. We’ll also be adding to the success of our Confetti range too.

Brexit must be up there as one of the biggest challenges of 2019. I would like to think when/if a deal is agreed, some stability will come to our industry and the economy as a whole. Looking specifically at the toy industry, I was pleased to see the issue of counterfeit toys was very clearly and successfully demonstrated to Parliament recently. When we go to such lengths to ensure our products are safe, we must have a mechanism to keep counterfeit products out of the market.

Toy World 170

Darrell Jones

Marketing Manager, Vivid 2018 has certainly been an interesting year for the toy industry.

We have had some great lines which we have launched this year, and in a normal year these would have been a success, however with ongoing Brexit fears they have not performed to our forecast levels. The shining light for us has been Squeezamals – we have struggled to keep up with demand. Our STEM range Science4you is also proving to be a winner, especially the Glow in the Dark Slime Factory. Our big news was being acquired by the Goliath Group in November. Goliath is a global leader in the games category, which presents many exciting opportunities for the business – so watch this space in 2019!

We are launching the Ryan’s World toy range at Toy Fair. Ryan is the worlds’ leading kids YouTube creator and his toy line has been a runaway success in the US during 2018 – the UK is his second most popular market behind the US, so all signs are looking like his toys will be as popular here too. We have a fantastic games offering from Goliath, with over 20 games being launched across the kids action, family and party games categories – make sure you drop by our stand B70 at Toy Fair to play some of our great new games.

The biggest challenge facing us is the ongoing uncertainty of Brexit – it’s all everyone seems to be talking about – we’re doing it now! Hopefully the US and China will also sort out their trading relationship; the last thing everyone needs is higher priced toys.

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Toy Fair 2019 Toy Fair 2019 Index Exhibitors

Page Number

Exhibitors

Page Number

8th Wonder

282

H.Grossman

204

A.B.Gee

217

Hacche (Milly & Flynn)

200

Accentuate

206

Halilit

190

Alpha Animation & Toys

208

Hasbro

236

Asmodee

220

Hornby

208

Baby Republic

276

IMC Toys

268

Bandai

212

Interplay

240

Big Potato

188

Jazwares

242

Brainstorm

224

John Adams

228

Bruder

184

Jumbo

210

Canal Toys

222

Kids@play

280

Casdon

192

K'Nex/Basic Fun

234

Character Options

180

Le Toy Van

198

Cheatwell

190

Leapfrog

252

Clementoni

213

Learning Resources

178

Click Distribution

194

Lego

274

Exhibitors

Page Number

Cobi

234

Magformers

202

Skip Hop

238

DGL Group

246

Magic Box Toys

216

Smart Toys

186

DKL Marketing

196

Marbel

210

Spin Master

254

Dolu

250

Marvins Magic

260

STC Group

204

Easy Read Time Teacher

268

Mookie

278

Swag Distribution

236

Eduk8 Worldwide

206

Orchard Toys

218

Tactic Games

172

Epoch

182

Paul Lamond

219

Thames + Kosmos

266

Flair

248

Playmobil

282

The Source Wholesale

258

FoCo

256

Posh Paws

214

TKC Sales

276

Funko

194

Rachel Lowe

282

Tobar

184

Funrise

262

Rainbow Designs

226

Tomy

270

Galt

188

Ravensburger

200

Trends

238

Geomag

244

Re:creation

242

University Games

274

Gibsons

192

Red Knight Toy Group

215

Vivid

232

Golden Bear

260

Rollplay

230

VTech

272

Green Board Games

198

Sambro

264

Wilton Bradley

266

Green Elephant Trading

186

Schleich

196

Winning Moves

264

H.Grossman

204

Siso Toys UK

176

Wow Stuff!

280

Tactic Games 01483 332 070 www.tactic.net STAND F90 Lumo Stars is a range of collectible Mini, Classic and Big plush toys covering various key price points and inspired by Nordic nature and mythologies. The Northern Brights New Collection will be supported in the market via the free Lumo Stars app which provides a community forum for Lumo Stars fans. These tactile plush creatures have deep, colourful eyes complemented by unique patterns and colour combinations.

The 3rd series will include new animals such as a Butterfly, Ladybird, Mouse, Unicorns and Pandas, as well as very cute looking Snakes and Spiders. In addition, the ever expanding Lumo ranges will be complemented by new merchandising opportunities.

Faces is the new party game for people that love to judge. The aim of the game is to try and imagine what total strangers are like based only on their face. Six cards showing faces are placed on the board, one player reads out a description and each player must decide which face suits the description best. Players who pick the most popular answer receive a point, the player who is first to reach five points wins.

Draw Out Extreme is a fun and entertaining drawing game. Players invent, name and share their own style with the supplied custom cards that include The Drunk, The Show off, The Fencer, The Builder, The Snoop, The Cook etc. Players can make it harder by mixing it up with how they have to hold the pen and whether they need a pen attachment. Both teams guess at the same time and the team with the most points win.

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Come and meet us on Stand D36, London Toy Fair

NEW Stems® is the incredibly flexible ‘maker’ toy that stimulates STEM learning through creative construction. The unique feature about Stems® is that there is just one component which is exactly the same shape.

They are so bendy that you only need this one shape to make pretty much anything you can imagine!

R

LSP 8594-UK 60 Piece Set LSP 8593-UK 20 Piece Set The Flexible 3D Maker Toy

Toy Fair 2019

Siso Toys UK 01620 674 778 www.simba-dickie-group.de Stand E135 Siso Toys UK will be making its much-anticipated debut at Toy Fair this year and unveiling its 2019 line-up to the trade, in what is shaping up to be a strong first full year for the business.

Siso Toys UK will be showcasing its eagerly awaitied RC line up from Toy Story 4. The range includes 1:24 scale RC toys based on key characters from the movie as well as 1:18 scale RC toys. Siso Toys UK will be launching the range in April; retailers can see the full range on display at the company’s stand at Toy Fair, with Toy Story benefitting from its own private showroom. Siso will be investing in a full 360 marketing plan, including TV investment, to drive sell-through at retail.

The Deep has been broadcast for two seasons on CBBC, both of which have delivered exceptional ratings. A third season is launching in 2019 which fans are eagerly awaiting. Siso Toys UK will be showcasing its range of impressive action figures, vehicles and underwater robot suits at Toy Fair. The range will be supported by an allencompassing marketing plan, with the various action figures and the popular underwater robots, known as Knights, featuring on TV. The White Knight was the first robot to be created in toy form by Siso; the 25cm tall toy lights up, is fully articulated and offers space inside to store one figure. In contrast, the yellow Mag Knight is equipped with a firing mechanism, as it is armed with magnetic missiles in the series.

Next up for Siso is Trollhunters - Tales of Arcadia, a Netflix original which launched in December 2016. It has so far proved very successful in terms Netflix ratings, and has broadcast on Pop since September. The range will comprise detailed figures, play sets and role-play products that will bring the world of Trollhunters to life for kids aged between six and nine. The range includes various sets of figures including 3“ non poseable multi-pack figures and 6“ deluxe figures with light and sound features. Young fans can become Trollhunters with role-playing articles such as the sword wielded by the lead character, Jim, and the amulet which gives him his magic powers. The Trollhunters Easter launch will be supported with an Easter TV campaign.

Child and kidult collectors alike will love Siso Toys‘ Majorette range of die cast vehicles and play sets. The Majorette range is highly detailed, with the die cast models boasting opening doors, suspension, transparent frontlights and interiors. The vehicles are in 1:64 scale and cover a strong portfolio of iconic cars including Mercedes, Lamborghini, Audi, Porsche and many more. The range includes different themes and sets for car fans to enjoy.

From this month, Siso will takeover distribution and marketing of Masha & The Bear, and will support the range with full 360 marketing support comprising heavyweight TV, YouTube, social media, digital and PR. The range will be made up of a mixture of current best-selling lines such as the 12cm dolls, the 23cm soft body doll, a plush bear in various sizes from 25cm to 50cm, as well as the ever popular play sets. A hero item that will continue into 2019 will be the Big Bear House play set, which has light and sound features and two floors for interactive play. A new Masha playhouse will also be introduced, which comes with a 12cm Masha doll.

Wissper saw its second season premiere on Milkshake in late 2018, and Siso Toys UK is pleased to be supporting the show with a cute range of dolls, figurines and play sets. Also on display at Toy Fair will be a range of plush and styling heads based on Mattel’s Enchantimals brand.

Siso will also be unvieling its premium doll range Corolle at UK Toy Fair. The iconic French doll brand celebrates its 40th aniversary in 2019, the year that Siso will launch the brand into the UK market. The heart of the range is made up of dolls with realistic faces that express emotion. The dolls have asymmetrial faces and are the ideal size for doll play, with the proporations of a real baby. Furthermore, each doll has a delightful vanilla scent to make play even more enjoyable. The 2019 range will be on full display, including the Mon Premier Poupon 30cm dolls and the Mon Grande Poupon 36cm dolls.

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Learning Resources 01553 819 386 www.learningresources.co.uk Stand D36 Learning Resources returns to London Toy Fair in its 25th year. Now the No. 1 manufacturer of educational toys in the UK toy market, the company has always been a leader in educational toys and provides over 1,000 different products to more than 80 countries. This year, new products include additions to the company’s popular coding, collectibles and construction ranges.

Artie, the new coding and drawing robot, puts children in control of their artwork. Artie has a built-in Wi-Fi server, so it can be used anywhere without requiring an internet connection. The easy-to-use drag and drop programming can be used on a Mac, PC or tablet and offers four modes of play; pre-programmed shapes, games, art for colouring and freeform coding. Artie has 360-degree movement – kids can tell him to turn right or left, forward or backward, or spin in any direction. Four swappable, washable coloured pens are included, and the innovative drawing simulator software allows coders to test their ideas before setting Artie down on paper.

In 2019 Learning Resources will also be launching a new Challenge Accessory Set for its successful coding robot Botley. The hands-on and screen-free coding robot made quite a name for itself at last year’s Toy Fair, having been awarded London Toy Fair Hero status and featuring on BBC Breakfast television. Throughout 2018 Botley scooped a number of prestigious industry awards including Gold at the Right Start Awards and Primary Teacher Awards, and is recommended in the Good Toy guide. The Botley the Coding Robot Action Challenge Accessory Set is an interactive, 40-piece accessory set that includes everything a young coder needs to set up STEM-inspired challenges to programme Botley through.

Learning Resources will also be launching new products into its 2018 collectibles ranges, including Playfoam Pals and Beaker Creatures.

Playfoam Pals combine creative play with discovery because all Playfoam Pals are hidden inside Playfoam; a squishy, sculpting material that encourages creativity and imagination whilst developing sensory and fine motor skills. It’s child friendly, won’t dry out and doesn’t stick to clothes or carpet. Playfoam Pals Fantasy Friends join the popular Wild Friends, Pet Party and Snowy Friends series. Children can enjoy opening the colourful Playfoam Pals Fantasy Friends pods to reveal their surprise collectible, and the heads and bodies can be mixed and matched for endless character combinations. These collectibles add elements of role play and nurturing, allowing Playfoam Pals to own a distinctive space in the competitive collectibles market.

The company’s range of science-themed collectibles Beaker Creatures combines the thrill of collecting with hands-on science experiments. By dissolving the Reactor Pods kids can discover, classify, and explore collectible characters from different families. Beaker Creatures sets double as working lab sets, complete with science experiments that encourage hands-on learning. The range includes individual Reactor Pods, The Liquid Reactor Super Lab set, Magnification Chamber set, and a 2-Reactor Pod pack with Bio Home. 2019 sees a number of additions to the Beaker Creatures range, including over 30 new characters in a completely new series. Plus, there’s a new Whirling Wave Reactor and Volcano set to dissolve the pods.

Learning Resources is also looking forward to showcasing Stems, the incredibly flexible toy that stimulates STEM learning through creative construction. Stems’ intriguingly organic-looking pieces join together along their bobbly spine to create surprising models from bouncing balls to DNA strands. Tactile and brightly coloured, Stems’ possibilities are as unlimited as a child’s ingenuity or imagination. The company believes that inventor Euan Lind has “created that rarest of products in the international toy industry – a truly unique new construction toy”. One of the most striking features of Stems is that there is just one component which is exactly the same shape; the key to play is how the pieces can be joined and how they connect.

Strong, lightweight and portable, Stems delivers long lasting play value as one colourful creation follows another. Stems suits all ages and abilities appealing to all kinds of learners, creating confidence through success.

For educational fun outdoors is the 5-in-1 Outdoor MeasureMate. Whether configured as a vertical measure, callipers, trundle wheel, spirit level or measuring stick, this versatile tool is the perfect way to introduce measurement to young learners in an outdoor setting. Its robust build means that it will cope with vigorous use in in rough terrain, and its bright colouring ensures the components will all be returned to its handy mesh bag. Ideal for non-standard measuring or the introduction of standard units, the primary aim of the Measure Mate is for young learners to have fun exploring -and measuring - the natural landscape. This will be enhanced by the bird footprints that the trundle wheel leaves, and deciding where to place the stickers that allow for customisation of the Measure-Mate.

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©2019 K’NEX Limited Partnership Group.

Toy Fair 2019

Character Options 01616 339 800 www.character-online.com Stand E119 With 15 years to celebrate, 2019 is a landmark year for Peppa Pig. The launch of Peppa’s Secret Surprise is one of the ways Character is marking the occasion; the innovative peel-and-reveal toys hold six blind bagged surprises inside a brightly coloured box. Series 1 is Party themed, and includes glittery party figures, party accessories, gifts and stickers or gems. New waves will follow throughout the year.

Peppa’s Stage Playset is another new addition, and brings a fresh play pattern to the range. The curtained stage comes with three reversible backdrop cards, while the pull-out stage floor has sound effects such as music, applause and laughter, plus separate theatre seating ready to be filled with an audience. Every stage needs actors and props, and themed accessories and cut-out scenes are also included to inspire young Peppa fans.

A key new line for autumn will be the Deluxe Peppa’s Family Home. This impressive three-storey wooden house stands 2.5 feet tall and has a different backdrop and flooring in every room, including the attic. There are plenty of accessories included plus a garden and a storage area. The collection also includes a Deluxe Family Car and Fun Mud Kitchen, plus all-new figure and accessory sets that offer a special collectors’ competition.

The Stretch collection will continue to expand into 2019, when the stars of WWE join the existing big-name licences. Launched this January and TV supported, the superstar WWE fighters Roman Reigns and AJ Styles have been immortalised in giant stretch figure form. Kids can stretch them, pull them and tie them in knots; once defeated, releasing the toy will allow it to return to its normal shape. The extensive Mini Stretch line also welcomes four of the world’s best professional WWE wrestlers - Roman Reigns and AJ Styles will be joined by wrestling legends Finn Balor and John Cena.

From the makers of Orb Soft‘n Slo Squishies comes a recipe for fun with Orb Slimi Café. This new product builds on the YouTube trend of customising Squishies and combines deconstructed Squishies with a range of compounds to create the ultimate squishies. Kids simply choose their squishie, construct, pick their toppings and decorate, then squeeze and deconstruct to use again and again. The squishies and compound toppings will be sold individually, or kids can choose the All-in-One Slimi Café starter kit, which includes one squishie and three compound toppings.

The Odditeez collection offers more odd squishy balls and collectibles to discover. The portfolio includes a technicolour assortment of Mega and Extreme Slimiballz, Beadiballz and Fuzzy Squeezy Plopzz! Splatteez that will stick to anything they are thrown at, while Wriggleballz will unravel and wiggle as if alive. The Fuzion Foodz have a peel back element to reveal a fun surprise within.

As a 2018 Dreamtoy-winning brand, Cra-z-Slimy Creations will continue to drive the slime craze, adding large tubs of colourful premade slime to its array of creative kits. A variety of textures and sizes will appeal to even the greatest slime fans, all of which can be displayed on an eye-catching FSDU. The Fun Food Tubs of scented slime contain quirky food choices; Mac ‘n’ Cheese and Mint Choc Chip among others. In addition to the tubs and buckets, further themed kits will be introduced to keep the brand offering fresh and enticing throughout the year.

Pokémon is one of the biggest franchises in history and underpins four core brand pillars - video games, trading cards, TV animation and apps.

2019 is set to be a landmark year for the brand with the Detective Pikachu Movie set for release in May and continual app developments throughout the year. In-line with this, Character’s master toy range will move into a new phase for 2019. New waves of figures will be released across all sizes and price points, and will include special vinyl collectible figures. The plush collection will see even more Pokémon to collect including the feature-packed Power Action Charmander, which joins the already successful Power Action Pikachu plush. The new Charmander toy will react to movement and impact with realistic sound effects, plus the tail and mouth light up.

This year will also see the roll-out of a Pokémon Electronics range including the fun Pikachu in My Pocket. At just 4” tall, this Pikachu has touch sensors that trigger cute reactions while his mechanised arms and ears allow him to move freely and even walk.

For high-flying outdoor action this spring, Kitedrone is a range of performance kites that will transform the skies into a colourful spectacle. This new brand will be supported by an extensive marketing drive.

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Toy Fair 2019

Epoch making toys 08435 574 062 www.sylvanianfamilies.com | www.aquabeadsart.com Stand B130 Epoch making toys will be at Toy Fair 2019 with its flagship brand Sylvanian Families and No. 1 arts and crafts brand, Aquabeads.

Sylvanian Families, the evergreen collectibles brand by Epoch, will be launching 19 new product ranges including items in its refreshed Nursery series, which has just had a successful launch in autumn/winter. Hero products from the range include the Baby Ferris Wheel and Baby Airplane Ride, both of which will be launching in spring.

The new theme park rides fit alongside the previously launched baby Nursery sets, including the popular Baby Castle Nursery, meaning hours of immersive and imaginative play for children. Each set in the Nursery series comes with a baby Sylvanian character, a key USP for the range, allowing fans to play with the toys straight away. This feature, as well as the lower price point of the products, makes the Nursery sets an ideal introduction to the Sylvanian Families brand.

For autumn 2019 there will be a new Red Roofed Houses collection, including a full model revamp of Beechwood Hall which has been renamed Red Roof Country Home. The new model has three working lights and options for multiple floor layouts, offering even more opportunities for young imaginations to run wild. There has also been a remodelling of the best-selling Cosy Cottage Starter Home. Now named Red Roof Cosy Cottage, the new set has a balcony and customisable windows which open and shut. A completely new addition to the new Red Roofed Houses collection, the Sweet Raspberry Home starter set comes with a Chocolate Rabbit baby figure and furniture, making it perfect for new collectors.

The brand will also be launching its second Baby Collectibles collection with a set of never-seen-before characters such as a Koala Baby, Deer Baby and Elephant Baby. The range contains a total of nine characters to collect, each one with their own accessory to play with. These toys are the most affordable Sylvanian Families products and so offer a strong pocket money range.

2019 also sees the launch of new three-member families for Sylvanian Families including Elephant and Polar Bear families alongside traditional Alpaca and Otter four-member families. Meanwhile, the Sylvanian Town range, which was launched at last year’s fair to critical acclaim, has gained an additional seven play sets including the Elegant Town House and Blooming Flower Shop.

Epoch making toys will also showcase its arts and craft brand Aquabeads, featuring a mix of core and licensed lines. Ten new products will be on show including brand new Aquabeads 3D products; the Crystal Carriage set, the Merry-Go-Round set and the Picture Frame set enable fans of arts and crafts to bring their creations to life.

The brand’s best-selling Beginners Studio set has had a major revamp with a new flip tray feature, allowing crafters to create more designs at the same time. The brand has also added more beads than ever before to its Starter Pack, making this a great value product. Aquabeads will be unveiling a whole range of new pastel beads in its spring/summer refills collection too, in keeping with predicted summer colour trends set to hit the fashion and lifestyle industries.

The new Aquabeads Box of Fun Safari Set comes with over 3,000 beads, meaning hours of playtime for crafters and great value for money. As well as beads, the set comes with its own play mat showcasing a savannah scene, opening a world of imaginative play for Aquabeads fans whilst they create animals from the collection including lions, parrots and zebras. The whole collection can then be kept in its own large storage box.

Aquabeads will also be unveiling its first ever Aquabeads festive Advent Calendar for Christmas 2019, while featured licensed Aquabeads products on display will include items from two of the biggest movie launches of 2019: Frozen 2 and Toy Story 4.

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Toy Fair 2019

Bruder 01491 412 415 www.bruder.de Stand E21 Bruder returns to Toy Fair with the latest products from its portfolio of “Just like the real thing” scale models and vehicles.

The 1:16 Caterpillar Skid Steer Loader is ideal for construction, landscaping, agriculture and other applications thanks to its great versatility. Like the life size vehicle, this Bruder model is equipped with a functional loading arm and a tilting, removable front bucket which kids can use to transport small objects, sand, or anything else required to complete the job. The loading arm can be equipped with numerous accessories, and robust tread tyres complete the picture.

The Bruder model Man TGS crane truck, in 1:16 scale, is well equipped for any recycling job. The two-tone black and green cab features opening doors, and the crane can be used to load and unload the three supplied recycling containers. To increase learning and play value, colour-matched bottles are also included. Three side walls of the model’s rear loading bed can fold down for easier loading and unloading, plus it includes a lockable tilting mechanism.

The red cab of the Mercedes Benz Arocs lorry features opening doors, while the roll-off container has two hinged wing doors and can be removed from the gripper arm to the rear. If the container is standing on the ground, and the doors are open, a small Bruder vehicle can even be driven into it ready for transport. This model set includes the popular Schaeff mini excavator which features a fully functional excavator arm, removable bucket and adjustable dozer blade.

For maximum manoeuvrability, the Schaeffer Compact Loader has working articulated steering, while the loading arm and bucket also function just like the real thing. The new bale grabber will help young farmers to transport and unload the supplied round bales into the barn. The gripper opens and closes by simply turning the top wheel.

The bale gripper set, which includes one round bale, is also available separately. It fits to all Bruder front loaders for tractors, as well as many other vehicles from the company’s comprehensive portfolio.

Tobar 0844 573 4299 www.tobar.co.uk Stand F50 Tobar will unveil its new Angry Birds range on a brand new stand at London Toy Fair. With the Angry Birds 2 movie scheduled for release in August, the Tobar range, which is built around Red and five other major characters, will include pocket money items such as slime and light-up gadgets such as lava lamps and night lights. Six characters will appear in the popular Jellyball range of large, squishy stress toys.

The pocket money Squishy Buddies range is a collectible blind bag line comprising squishy versions of the Angry Birds characters, all of which have been designed to sit on a phone, desk or computer.

Tobar already has a strong relationship with Bburago and Maisto, and 2019 will see the Angry Birds licence extend across these brands to include a new line of products with differing price points from pocket money and up. Other items include radio control and a blind bagged range of collectible construction toys. There will also be a fast and fabulous Slot Car Racing Set. The popularity of squidgies and slow release foam has been an influence on stress release fun products for 2019. Brand new Jellyballs make their debut appearance, a mixture of the popular existing fruit line combined with animals.

Zuru Oosh Cotton Candy Cuties is a collectible range offering lollipop shaped containers within which kids can find a generous handful of sweet smelling putty that stretches into web-like strands. Buried in the middle of the putty is a cute squishy toy. Highly collectible, competitively priced and the focus of a major TV ad campaign supported by mainstream PR, Cotton Candy Cuties should prove popular.

Tobar’s focus is on pocket money toys, with imaginative takes on mythical beasts being the order of the day. Llamacorns, a combination of Llama and Unicorn - two of the trendiest creatures of the moment – have created a new pocket money range. The range includes the Llamacorn balloon ball, magic putty, a night light and a money bank, plus Llamacorn magic poo.

The existing Animigos line has welcomed New Born Animigos, baby animal versions of the existing animated plush. The top quality packaging adds value to this new line, which lets kids choose from Pug, Kitten, Bunny or Guinea Pig all sold in their own home with a carry handle. Each New Born Animigo also comes with a baby bottle so that kids can feed and nurture their new pet.

Mention must also be made of the best-selling and award-winning Zuru Robo Alive range, which sees a new addition in the form of a Dragon, while the Zuru Pets Alive range offers two new items – a dancing, bottom tweaking Llama called Boppi, and an interactive Unicorn.

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The vet visits ! le b a t s e s r o h w e n the Brand new SchleichÂĽ pony and horse sets

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Green Elephant Trading 0870 803 2116 www.greenelephanttrading.com Stand GH42 Green Elephant is returning to Toy Fair for the fifth year running, with the ever-popular Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty and Tokidoki collectibles on show alongside two fun new brands the company is launching in 2019.

The company is introducing Waff World Gifts to the UK market. Waff brings a unique sense of innovation and design to its range of stationery products, with journals that are functional, playful, colourful and - most importantly - fun to use. Inspired by the grid of a waffle, journals are available in three sizes and a wide range of colours. Each journal comes with a bag of colourful letter cubes kids can use to decorate and customise their journal. The Waff pencil case is practical, soft to touch and can also be personalised with the included cubes, some of which feature fun emojis and can also be attached to a favourite Waff Journal or any hardback book.

The range also includes a Pixelated Art Set. This pack includes a silicone play mat, 800 assorted cubes, a cotton bag and a design ideas booklet, making it ideal for travel.

Green Elephant is also looking forward to launching the Constructive Eating range of fun and functional children’s utensils and plate sets. Available in three designs - Construction, Fairy Garden and Dinosaur - Constructive Eating helps children stay engaged at the table so they can nourish both their bodies and imaginations.

Patented features on each plate work with the utensils to make scooping up each morsel a breeze. Made in the USA, this will be the first time the range is available for the UK marketplace.

The company will also be exhibiting its complete range of Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. Crazy Aaron has been hard at work innovating and has some great new additions to the range for 2019. Available in four tin sizes as well as a great range of gift sets and Mixed By Me Kits, there really is something for everyone.

Visitors to Toy Fair can also discover the sweet and quirky universe of Tokidoki with its diverse range of Japanese inspired characters. Collectors can enter the everexpanding world of Unicorno, Mermicorno, Seapunk and Donutella blind box collectibles; each high-quality plastic figure comes in its own themed presentation box.

Smart Games 01903 885669 www.smartgames.eu Stand F25 Smart Games’ award-winning portfolio of logic games boasts multi-level challenges ranging from easy to tricky, so the whole family can help to support little ones as they grow and develop. The popular brand has become known for creating truly unique games with innovative and engaging mechanics, and 2019’s launches will not disappoint.

Brand-new game Atlantis Escape is launching for spring. This compact travel puzzle game has 60 3D challenges from easy to expert. Ideal for game lovers who enjoy an adrenaline rush, Atlantis Escape sees players trying to escape before the beautiful city disappears underwater. Aimed at kids seven years and above, participants will need to navigate staircases to find the shortest path from the high tower to the harbour, where a boat is waiting to take them to safety.

Kids can enjoy an interactive trip to the farm next spring with Smart Games’ Smart Farmer, a fun game for players aged five and above. The pigs, sheep, horses and cows are making a big mess and need to be separated, but as there are only three simple fences to divide the field into separate meadows, the player will need to give their strategy some serious thought. Kids must place the fences so the animals each get their own space, and mustn’t forget about the animal’s water either - they each need their own supply.

The Smart Games’ Brain Train will be introduced in late spring. Ideal for the younger members of the family, this colourful game not only doubles as a toy, but also promises to excite and develop the minds of little ones. Players need to match the shapes in the challenge and follow the sequence, ensuring the wagons are connected before the train departs; with fewer hints each level, it gets trickier at every stage.

Finally, kids can match colours and catch the bugs in Smart Games’ Colour Catch, an engaging new puzzle game launching in spring for those aged six and over. The game challenges players to place the puzzle pieces on the game board so that the frogs and salamanders match the colours shown in the challenge. But they must watch out - the animals are transparent and their colours will change on different parts of the game board.

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Toy Fair 2019

Big Potato 07472 824 526 www.bigpotato.co.uk Stand H46 The Big Potato team is returning to London Toy Fair armed with its brightly coloured stand and a raft of brand new party games. Included in next year’s line-up is the fast and frantic family game 20 Second Showdown, the mind-reading party game Head Hackers, and the recently released secret missions game Don’t Get Got. 20 Second Showdown is a rollercoaster family game which sees two teams racing to complete a series of ridiculous challenges. The group must pick a player to start in the hot seat and read out a Challenge Card, then flip the timer and try to complete whatever crazy task the game throws at them. There are 400 different challenges in the game, from saying “hello” in three different foreign languages to swapping shoes with a team member. The first team to run out of time loses and must reset the timer, whilst the winners have to parade around the room.

In Head Hackers, players will get a chance to practise their psychic powers as they try to get their teammate to read their mind, whilst keeping everyone else out. During a turn, a secret word is revealed to every player – except for the chosen player’s teammate. By writing down three one-word clues, the player’s job is to communicate the secret word across and get their teammate to yell it out. If they shout out the right word, both players receive the points.

Finally, there’s the secret missions party game Don’t Get Got. In this game, players are each given six Mission Cards to carry around. On each of these cards is a mission – one that requires them to trick another player in some way without getting caught. This game is a bit different from most other party games; participants don’t sit around a table to play, it’s designed to run in the background, which means it can be played anywhere – at home, on holiday, in the office or at a party. But no matter where players are or what they’re doing, they’ll always need to keep their wits about them, because there’s no telling what the other players might be planning.

At the show, Big Potato will also be announcing two brand new licensed games for 2019. While the company is keeping this information so closely guarded it can’t currently reveal anything solid, visitors to the Big Potato stand at London Toy Fair 2019 can see for themselves what’s in store. To book an appointment, get in touch with Emily Polglase at emily@bigpotato.co.uk, or call the number provided.

Galt 01614 289 111 www.galttoys.com Stand E9 Galt has introduced eight new science products including a range of Explore and Discover kits in compact boxes. The Bubble Lab, Dino Lab, Kitchen Lab and Slimy Lab sets are packed with experiments and include a full-colour 16 page lab booklet. The Horrible Science range welcomes Perilous Planes, which lets kids experiment with a glider launch, parachute tests and a helicopter rotor, while the Chaotic Kitchen Experiments include powering a clock with a potato and fishing for frozen cockroaches.

This year sees the introduction of a new The Very Hungry Caterpillar Playnest, which includes a variety of features to explore such as a crinkle leaf, furry patches and a mirror. Ideal for days out and fully machine washable, Galt’s new fabriccovered inflatable First Years Activity Ball is decorated with butterflies, flowers and bees. The popular Follow Me Ball is being relaunched with an easy-to-use external switch, and the Ambi Toys range of retro pre-school products welcomes Tick Tock Clock.

Galt’s Activity Packs offer an entry level price point. With the Clay Cars set, children can make two animal cars using colourful air drying clay, while Cute Lockets allows kids to create keepsake lockets with animal sequins and charms. For ages six plus, there is also a make-up kit with everything from eyeshadow to stick-on gems.

In 2019, Galt is launching a new Marble Run. An 80-piece set with a whole suite of cause-and-effect features, the run includes a starter top, vortex, ramp, rope swing and drum base, as a well as a domino track. The company is also launching a new Giant Floor Puzzle with large, wipe clean pieces made from thick board, plus eight template pieces in the shape of rides and attractions. A new 4-in-box Jungle puzzle features images of elephants, lions and giraffes; each puzzle has a different number of pieces to encourage matching and sorting.

Galt’s Cosmic Coding game is designed to introduce children to coding and has been designed to fit in with key stage 1 of the National Curriculum. It features plastic rocket pieces and movement, plus mission and star cards. The new double-sided Jungle Floor dominos help develop image recognition and encourage matching and counting for two to four players. Galt is also introducing a new Magnetic Letters set of 80 brightly coloured letters for use on any magnetic surface.

The company’s new reusable sticker books – Animals, Dinosaurs and Farm – let kids create scenes using over 150 reusable stickers. Galt’s latest Water Magic title, Unicorns, is suitable for ages three plus, while Young Art features new Non-Spill Pots and Giant Chalks.

Finally, Galt’s Creative Cases range sees four new additions; French Knitting, Animal Pottery, Hair Studios and Sparkle Body Art.

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Cheatwell 02392 524098 www.cheatwell.com Stand E20 Cheatwell’s new board game, Quicksand is a hectic and frantic game, which brings fun and laughter to any social get-together. In this team game, players must race to draw and guess pictures in the sand; the more they guess, the more points the player scores. With over 300 topics and almost 2,000 things to draw, Quicksand is an imaginative family game that brings home all the seaside fun of sketching in the sand.

For those who are tired of trivia challenges dominated by the clever clogs is Quiz Bingo.

Featuring favourite categories that will appeal to any player - from Entertainment to History, and Science to Sport - the game lets anyone score at any time. Players simply write their solutions down on the answer grid as they go, and score just as they would in bingo.

Pickles to Penguins is a rapid reaction party game for fun-loving competitors everywhere. There’s no taking turns in this game; players simply race to get rid of their cards as fast as they can. Having checked their hand, if a player spots a link with the cards on the table they must play their cards down. However, if they stretch the connection too far they’ll pick up a penalty. There are hundreds of pictures in the game, but the fun lies in how many a player can link together.

Following huge demand, Cheatwell has brought back its popular Family Fun range. Chattabox, Up-A-Bit and Family Charades are giant games in little boxes, and are ideal for taking on travels or for brightening up a birthday.

I Spy With My Little Eye is the ultimate observation game. If players can spot the lot then they are guaranteed to be the winner. I Spy is ideal for helping children to develop their observation and communication skills.

Cheatwell’s Round Tin Games have proved very popular. Hot on the heels of the award-winning Polar Panic comes Scissors Paper Stone, a fresh take on the perennial playground pastime.

Quirky proved a success last year and 2019 sees the launch of two sister products in the series. Big 6 is the fast-thinking bidding game for family and friends. Players have just 30 seconds to say how many questions they can answer against the clock, but if they fail to name them all they could lose the lot.

Read My Mind is the game in which like-minds battle quick-thinkers. Players write down their answer to a given statement then try to communicate it to another player. Participants must think fast and think smart to make the connection before someone else beats them to it.

Finally, Cheatwell is introducing new Poppers to its best-selling Squeeze Popper range. New Poppers being launched in 2019 include Llama and Flamingo, plus the Tutti-Frutti range of Banana, Avocado and Pineapple.

Halilit 01254 872454 www.halilit.co.uk Stand E90 Halilit is exhibiting at what will be its 35th London Toy Fair, keen to meet with both current and prospective customers. This year brings changes, with the new Edushape rebrand offering an eye-catching, redesigned packaging style. New additions focus on developmental values in addition to Sensory and STEM qualities; the innovative Tub Sub features a flexible push and pull action to turn a floating boat into a sinking submarine during bath time play. Edushape has also expanded its classic sensory balls to include shapes such as the Wobbles - a large and tactile triangular ball for sensory play - and the Tickles, a peanut shaped textured ball with a ‘nubby’ exterior to ensure maximum developmental value. For its impulse purchase offering, Halilit will be unveiling Edushape’s new mini toddler toys, including the pull-back and go Mighty Mini Cars and Helicopters.

The acclaimed Halilit musical instrument range continues to go from strength to strength, and the team will be showcasing some of the latest colours and styles within this evergreen pre-school brand. Featuring an elastic drumskin for a pleasing resonant tone, the Super Drum complements the brightly coloured and tactile tropical collection, and is expected to become a best-seller within the range. A new gift set featuring some of the most popular rattles for babies aged 6 months and up, and redesigned products such as the Baby Xylophone, set up Halilit for another successful year in the musical play category.

Koala Daydream is the latest theme from the award-winning Taf Toys design team, with a host of new products being launched at Toy Fair. This cute collection introduces Kimmy Koala, her baby Joey and friend Scotty Snail, and includes a creative Flip and Play Tummy-Time book filled with lots of illustrations, textures and engaging activities to keep babies happy while they develop important skills. The Honey Bunny Stacker and a new Koala themed Car Activity Play Centre also feature within the Koala Daydream range.

New items also feature in the Taf Toys Mini Moon and North Pole collections which have both seen success over the last year, with products such as the Musical Newborn Cosy Gym being voted the overall winner in the recent Mother&Baby review of baby gyms. The brand continues to win many accolades and receive positive blogger and social media reviews. As the baby grows, the Taf Toys North Pole collection offers a variety of engaging developmental toys including the double-sided North Pole Activity Book, due to be launched at Toy Fair, whilst the Mini Moon collection is expanding for 2019 to include a stylish Pram arch and Activity Centre.

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Toy Fair 2019

Casdon 01253 608 428 www.casdon.com Stand E30 At London Toy Fair, Casdon will showcase continuing classic lines, plus new licences that have been added to the company’s extensive portfolio of role-play toys.

Casdon combines pretend play with renowned household names to bring replica appliances and role-play accessories to the play room. Whether children are Little Helpers, Little Cooks or even Little Shoppers, there’s something in the Casdon collection for retailers across multiple territories.

The new Tetley Tea Set will appeal to kids and adults alike thanks to its durability and nostalgic charm. Children can enjoy hours of role-play fun with this traditionally styled set, which contains a tin teapot, tray, cups, saucers and plates, all housed within a carry-case for easy portability.

For springtime, kids can help mum and dad in the garden with the Flymo Turbo Lite Lawnmower, another eye-catching replica from Casdon Toys. The Flymo features a foldable handle for easy storage and a mechanical click when the mower is on the move, plus it also features the iconic orange base.

Continuing into 2019 is the collection of Dyson replica vacuums. The toy replica of the famous Dyson Cord-free Vacuum makes pretend play so much more realistic, with working suction to pick up small bits and a debris compartment to empty out when the hoovering is finished. The simulated cyclone action has moving colourful balls in a clear cylinder, so it looks and sounds like the life-size Dyson. There are also different ways to play, with kids able to choose from either short nozzle or long handled twist & turn cleaning. All the attachments have an easy-release removal system. This role-play toy looks just like the real thing, and is ideal for kids’ hands as well as for developing essential life skills.

Gibsons 020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Stand E40 Gibsons is exhibiting an array of jigsaw puzzles and games at the 2019 London Toy Fair. It’s a special year for Gibsons, as the company will be celebrating its centenary having traded as a British family business for 100 years. A special stand design at this year’s show will celebrate this landmark achievement, along with an archive featuring some original Gibsons’ games.

Gibsons’ fast and frantic dice game, Zonkers, will be launched at Toy Fair. The aim of the game is for players to match their dice with the dice graphics on the cards. When the cards are filled with dice, or when a player places their last dice, the round ends and the player with the most dice on a card wins. Unused dice are worthless and when the deck of cards runs out, the player who has collected the most cards is the winner. Gibsons will be holding a Zonkers competition on its stand for the duration of the show; visitors who swing by can be in with the chance of winning a discount off their next order.

In addition, Gibsons will be adding 50 new jigsaw puzzles to its range in January. Among these will be two centenary themed puzzles, including specially commissioned Steve Crisp and Thomas Kinkade designs. Like all Gibsons’ puzzles, they are made from the highest quality recycled board, making them a pleasure to work with again and again.

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Toy Fair 2019

Funko 020 3376 3223 www.funko.com Stand E130 Funko is showcasing a host of new products to wet the appetites of pop culture fans and collectors ahead of a strong year of pop culture landmarks and releases. The company will be exhibiting its instantly recognisable Pop! Vinyl line as well as some of the newest additions to its Gifting & Homewares collection, alongside the Loungefly range of bags, wallets and purses. Covering licences including Marvel, Fortnite, Rick & Morty, Disney, Stranger Things, Star Wars and DC, Funko’s portfolio offers something for everyone. Visitors to the stand at Toy Fair can even get a sneak peek at some of Funko’s newest collections before they hit the market.

An ideal range for the older pop culture fan, the Gifting & Homewares collection covers a range of popular licences, with plenty of products to suit all tastes. Funko will be showcasing its Disney Retro line to mark Mickey Mouse’s 90th birthday, as well as its outlandish Rick & Morty kitchen range. Pickle Rick fans can enjoy a Pickle Rick Bottle Opener and a Pickle Rick Banana Guard, or get their hands on a Mr. Meeseeks mug and Rick & Morty Egg Cups. With plenty more licensed offerings on the way including The Little Mermaid (celebrating the film’s Pearl Anniversary), Toy Story, the Genie from Aladdin and a second wave of The Nightmare Before Christmas line, the Gifting & Homewares line is one to watch.

Funko will also be displaying a selection of its Loungefly products. This recent acquisition includes apparel such as bags, purses, and accessories, covering a broad range of licences from Marvel to Disney, Overwatch and Star Wars. Marvel fans can choose from a selection of micro-backpacks; from Captain America to Groot and even the mischievous Loki, these distinctive designs are the ideal fashion accessory. The high quality and distinctive prints of Loungefly make this line a must-see for visitors.

Finally, Funko will be showcasing the newest additions to its Pop! Vinyl collection, as well as a selection of its other figure lines. 5 Star - one of the newest ranges from Funko - features articulated, poseable figures of iconic characters, complete with a selection of accessories to further the character’s narrative. Covering licences from Harry Potter to Fortnite, with many more on the way, 5 Star figures shouldn’t be missed. Funko will also be bringing along a large selection of Fortnite products, a licence that has taken the EMEA market by storm, as well as Aquaman, Premier League Football, Pop! Rock legends and products from upcoming Marvel releases such as Captain Marvel.

Visitors can also catch a glimpse of Funko’s pocket money products, including Mystery Minis, Pint Size Heroes and Pocket Pop! Keychains.

Click Distribution 01604 877 888 www.clickdistribution.co.uk Stand Gallery 120 Click Distribution (UK) is preparing for its most exciting Toy Fair to date, with no fewer than eight exclusive master toy programmes to present to customers both old and new. In addition to these, the company will be unveiling the collectibles publishing programmes from both Panini and Topps, plus a new IP which Click has developed itself.

Click’s exclusive arrangement with Phatmojo has already brought the company’s popular Bendy And The Ink Machine range to the trade, which has proved a particular hit with gamers and mass consumer customers alike. Click will be unveiling series two of this strong licence, which the company is sure will grow even further in 2019 following the games release onto PS4, Xbox and Nintendo Switch. Also from the Phatmojo stable, Click will be presenting master toy ranges for Unstable Unicorns, Llama Llama, Chibi Puffs, Baldi’s Basics, It, and True and The Rainbow Kingdom, in a varied range that offers something for everyone.

Click’s own IP, Alien Bogeys, really has to be seen to be believed. The gross range is great fun for collectors and has been very well received at home and abroad.

Panini’s collectible range for 2019 is tipped to be its strongest ever. The company’s success in obtaining the Premier League Football rights away from its competitor Topps will see it launching the Adrenalyn Trading Card game and a Sticker collection during the course of the year. Both ranges are eagerly awaited and are supported by a promotional and marketing campaign which will surpass the company’s spend on its successful Fifa World Cup collections. The Entertainment programme is also particularly strong, and includes collections for L.O.L., Harry Potter, Fortnite, Toy Story 4 and Frozen 2 among others. All these ranges are supported with strong marketing campaigns across all forms of media.

Click will also be unveiling Topps’ collectible programme for 2019, which will include a number of own-brand Topps IPs for stickers, trading cards and collectible figurines. Topps will also be unveiling its plans for the Match Attax brand, following the loss of the Premier League rights.

Finally, Click will be presenting the Worlds Apart/ Moose Toys range of Scruff-a-Luv’s, which has been one of the biggest toys of 2018. The programme for Scruff-a-Luvs in 2019 is slated to be “outstanding”, and Clicks is looking forward to sharing the range with visitors to the fair. Also not to be missed is Moose’s range of Fortnite Collectible Figures, which Click believes will be one of the strongest collectible ranges available in 2019.

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Toy Fair 2019

DKL Marketing 01604 678 780 www.dkl.co.uk Stand E66 The Hama Beads brand sees a raft of new products introduced for 2019. The craft brand was TV advertised twice last year, in a campaign that encouraged creativity and imagination while highlighting Hama’s endless play possibilities.

A major change to the 2019 range is the packaging, which has been refreshed to ensure it keeps pace with modern styles and trends, as well as showcasing the opportunities that Hama provides. New additions to the Hama portfolio will be presented at Toy Fair; new sets include the 3D Rabbit and Fox Gift Boxes, alongside four new Hanging Boxes including Princess and Circus themes.

One of the fastest selling ranges from DKL Marketing in 2018 has been the new Plus-Plus range, simple building bricks which offer open-ended and imaginative construction play. Plus-Plus lets children create impressive models that are limited only by their imagination. Since launching in 2016, the Plus-Plus Tubes range has seen growth which has exceeded expectations - in the USA, over 1m tubes have been sold so far. The line will be expanding this year, with new tubes set to be unveiled including a space range with glow in the dark features.

The Breyer Model Horse brand has long been synonymous with quality equestrian models and play accessories.

Stablemates provides kids with an entry point range of horses, sets and accessories at competitive prices. The brand has exceeded 2018 growth plans, with the Classic Play Horses, Unicorns and Painting Sets proving particularly popular. Keeping up with the popular Unicorn and Fantasy Horse theme, the eye-catching Aurora and Cupcake models, from the Classic Horses range, will be unveiled during the show. The brand will also be expanding its Traditional Collectibles and Arts & Craft range this year.

Bloco is a realistic construction range comprising high-density foam pieces and uniquely designed connectors which interlink, stack and rotate at any angle to create animal constructions. Sets include popular themes such as Dinosaurs, Animals, Sea Creatures and Unicorns, plus other captivating characters that can either be played with or displayed as decorative items.

A category that continues to go from strength to strength for DKL, Scentco’s range of eco-friendly scented stationery offers a wide variety of scents that last two years. Kids can choose from Smencils, Smens, Smarkers, Smencil Buddies and more - each colourful product features its own delicious scent.

PlayMais lets kids make beautiful creations just by adding water. This all-natural crafting toy is 100% biodegradable, and is easy for small hands which want to create imaginative 2D mosaic creations and 3D models. Bath time can be made fun for babies with the Escabbo range of bath toys. This colourful range includes items such as the Squirters, Fish Scoop, Bath Book, Bath Mats, Kissing Turtles, Cubes, Letters, Numbers and more.

DKL will be supporting all of its ranges with high-profile marketing campaigns to include in-store activations, experiential activities, dedicated planograms, and extensive social media and PR activity.

Schleich 01279 870 000 www.schleich-s.com/en Stand Gallery 100 The riders from Schleich’s Horse Club, the animals from Farm World and Wild Life, and the mythical beasts of bayala and Eldrador Creatures will have plenty of new additions to their ranks for 2019, all of which can be displayed effectively thanks to the company’s many POS solutions.

For the youngest of collectors the Farm World offers a staple for the toy box, and new animals from the pasture, plus pets you’d find in the farmyard, join the line-up for 2019. The new Puppy Pen Play Set is a 12-piece set including three puppies, their pen and all the accessories they need including a Teddy Bear.

The traditional farm horses also have new breeds to discover, plus a bright new Pony Agility Training Set to put them through their paces. This set comes with everything young equestrians need to train and have fun with their ponies; paddock fencing, small jumping obstacles that can be adjusted, a see-saw and more.

An articulated child figure is also included to add to the play value this set offers.

Continuing the equine theme, spring will see the Tournament Season begin for the Horse Club with new mares and stallions joining the ranks. The horses have highly detailed manes and tails, while matching accessories will ensure they are awarded best in show. Once the tournament is complete, Hannah’s Guest Horses, complete with Ruby the Dog, will add even more choice to the comprehensive line-up, while the eagerly awaited Rider Café will be available from July.

The café provides horses and their riders with an ideal place to stop, rest and relax after a hard day’s eventing.

Schleich’s world of Wild Life sees some exotic new species are added to the line-up. The Komodo Dragon from Indonesia, and the Quokka - a lesser known marsupial from Australia - join the Ring-Tailed Lemur in the 2019 range. The range also includes the Okapi, the animal that was voted for by Schleich’s fans. Plus, perfect for playing, learning and discovering are the Schleich Wild Life Flash Cards. This combination of double-sided flash cards and intricate figurines adds more possibilities to playtime.

Finally, Monsters of a mythical kind will also be top of the agenda as the fight for the Superweapon of Eldrador Creatures continues. Each of the lands - Lava, Ice, Stone and Water - will have a new figure join the battle, including the Fire Bull and Ice Spider.

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PR E- E M VE IU HI M CL ES

BA PO T T R I W E E RY DE R -O E D NS

HI RI G H D E PE S R

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TO VE DD HI LE CL R ES VISIT US AT THE TOY FAIR: London: Booth No. G115 Nuremberg: Hall 7 Stand B-50

Quality ride-ons for every age Toddler & Preschool: from foot-powered vehicles and push-cars, to low-speed e-vehicles for ages 2yrs+ Battery-Powered Vehicles: 40+ different 6v and 12v battery-powered rides for ages 3yrs+ High Performance: innovative drives to satisfy kids’ need for speed, stylishly designed for ages 6-14yrs

UK contact: Kingsley Li • kingsley.li@rollplay.com • +44 798 6971 902

www.rollplay.com

Toy Fair 2019

Green Board Games 01494 538 999 www.greenboardgames.com Stand E15 Green Board Games is preparing to showcase three entirely new ranges at the 2019 London Toy Fair, which will take pride of place on the company’s stand. Alongside the new ranges, over 40 new products have been added to an already varied product portfolio, meaning there will be plenty for fair visitors to see and enjoy.

Retailers can expect new introductions from the award-winning and best-selling BrainBox range. These titles will include six new licensed Disney and Roald Dahl BrainBox games, which will be an attractive prospect for buyers searching for the next best licensed game. Green Board Games will be launching two other BrainBox titles, World Traveller and Time Traveller, which will help young children learn about the world and major historical events thanks to the classic BrainBox game play and a series of charming scene-based illustrations.

Pre-school buyers will be well supported with numerous new lines available from the bright and colourful, award-winning Fat Brain Toys range, which Green Board Games distributes to the UK market. The two new, beautifully illustrated pre-school ranges have been carefully designed to promote fun learning and early development. Products in the Foot Steps range are ideal for children up to three years of age, while the Leaps and Bounds range targets children aged three and above.

New to the Foot Steps range, Stacking Cubes offers five ways to stack and learn. In the Leaps and Bounds range, Green Board Games will be presenting four new games including Miximals, a hilarious game that encourages children to mix and match animal head, body and tail pieces; Match-a-Rhyme, a fun matching game that provides some sing-along fun; Mucky Pups, a game that gets children to pick their pup and race to clean them up; and Story Scenes, a game that encourages children to create fun stories using the characters and scenes included.

Mad Moose, the third new range from Green Board Games, has been designed for children aged five and over. Visitors to the stand at London Toy Fair will be introduced to an engaging selection of fun family titles, including Alpha Chase, the winning game from the company’s Young Games Inventor competition in 2017. The highly entertaining, animal-themed titles Monkey Mischief and Noah’s Ark should also be on any buyer’s list of must-see products at the fair.

Le Toy Van 0208 979 2036 www.letoyvan.com Stand E10 Le Toy Van’s toys are designed to cater to developing senses and are packed with layers of discovery for young, growing imaginations. The company believes childhood should be enjoyed to the full, which is why it has been making imaginative wooden toys, designed in Great Britain with a touch of French ‘je ne sais quoi’, since 1995.

This year, Le Toy Van is launching more than 35 brand new toys, all of which have been well received by the company’s trusted partners and retailers. From the largest closed dolls house ever designed for children and the new glittery rocking unicorn, through to the quirky new addition in the company’s role-play food section, 2019 is set to be a year of strong growth.

Bedecked in a rose and white striped fabric canopy and featuring a secret drawer, the Tea Time Trolley graces the front cover of Le Toy Van’s 2019 catalogue. A classic barrow style trolley with two wheels and handle, the trolley is adorned by eye-catching artwork including illustrated drinks and cakes menus on both side panels. A flourish of golden paint adds an extra touch style to afternoon tea. The trolley has been scaled for Le Toy Van’s award-winning Honeybake role-play collection to further stimulate imaginative and social play.

To support the launch of the Tea Time Trolley, Le Toy Van has refreshed its stand design for the London Toy Fair. While the company will be exhibiting its portfolio at the same location, visitors will notice a stunning new look. Reflecting one of the core pillars of the business - producing eco-friendly toys and reducing its impact on the environment without compromising on products’ fun and educational values - visitors to the Le Toy Van stand will discover the spirit of the forest and the deep respect that the company holds for the trees.

The company states that wooden toys are biodegradable, longer lasting than their plastic counterparts, and are only powered by make-believe, so it’s the child’s creativity that does the legwork. Ethically created from sustainable tactile materials, Le Toy Van toys encourage creative long lasting play and are sure to become well-loved family favourites.

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PUZZLES & GAMES FOR ALL THE FAMILY

VISIT US AT THE LONDON TOY FAIR, ON STAND E46 AND VISIT US AT SPRING FAIR, HALL 5 STAND K64

Toy Fair 2019

Ravensburger 01869 363 830 www.ravensburger.com Stand E140 Ravensburger’s saw its seventh consecutive year of growth in 2018. The company has every intention of growing again in 2019, and will reveal its future plans, including increased marketing spend, digital campaigns and TV advertising, at London Toy Fair. With almost 200 new products joining the Ravensburger portfolio, attendees to the UK’s leading toy show will have much to discover.

The GraviTrax Starter Set will be Ravensburger’s best-selling item of 2019. Customer feedback indicates that it is the best-selling of all STEM products at retail, appealing strongly to both older boys and girls.

GraviTrax is developing into a stand-alone category, and the company will launch eight new items in autumn/ winter 2019 for fans of the range.

The company’s multi-award-winning Peppa Pig range has been very successful, with more products in the pipeline for autumn/winter 2019. This year will also see new designs for Thomas & Friends, PJ Masks, Bing Bunny and Disney, plus movie products for How to Train your Dragon 3, Secret Life of Pets 2, Toy Story 4 and the much-anticipated Frozen 2. Ravensburger also welcomes Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, Spirit, Rusty Rivets, That’s Not My…, Enchantimals, Top Wing and School of Roars to its collection of the UK’s most popular licences.

Adult puzzles show growth of 19% YTD, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to UK specific development and its selection of the best international images.

Ravensburger’s 80 new titles for 2019 reflect British consumer tastes and, importantly, deliver fresh ideas and themes to attract new consumers into the puzzle market.

3D Puzzle remains an important category, and Ravensburger will drive growth with new TV spots and digital content. Key products are vehicles (the Porsche 911 and the Harry Potter Night Bus), iconic landmarks with lights, stylish storage sneakers and licensed balls in various formats and licences, including Frozen 2 and Harry Potter designs.

The company’s games have enjoyed a positive year, with over 29% growth and similar growth planned for 2019, supported by a heavyweight TV-focused media spend.

Disney Villainous, Harry Potter Labyrinth, Harry Potter Pictopia and Break Free are among the key items available now, and Ravensburger has more major launches planned for autumn/winter 2019.

As proud owners of the multi-award-winning ThinkFun range, Ravensburger plans for high sales growth in the future. There is tangible retail opportunity for this fun and original STEM-based games range, and the company will support the Rush Hour family with TV advertising.

Finally, Ravensburger had another strong year of growth with Brio and will launch 15 new, innovative products for spring/summer 19, with more new additions arriving in autumn/winter. The company will invest in a major consumer marketing campaign for this heritage brand, with the details to be confirmed at the 2019 trade shows.

Hacche Retail 01242 241765 www.gingerfox.co.uk | www.millyandflynn.com Stand B115 Hacche has been busy in the Ginger Fox den, creating a new range of innovative and appealing games, championing upcoming trends and introducing exciting new licences.

Perfect for players with a sweet tooth, Dough Nab! is a bakery blitz which sees everyone racing to match cards and grab doughnut props. With a stylish head baker’s hat for the winner, this family game comes in tempting doughnut-box style packaging.

Players can get ready to battle their bros in a game of Bump This!, the ultimate handshake showdown. Passing hilarious handshakes from player to player, participants must try not to lose their cool as the seriously ‘street’ greetings get more and more elaborate. One wrong move and the player is out.

Game lovers can also put their brain power to the test in Ginger Fox’s new University Challenge or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? card games, or take on a more off-the-wall challenge with the Taskmaster board game.

From Milly&Flynn comes an exclusive Gruffalo range featuring a fun selection of tempting toys and gifts, with monster appeal for parents and children alike. The Gruffalo Height Chart boasts a large image of the Gruffalo in all his toothy glory, and comes complete with stickers parents can use to mark their own little monster’s growth. This hanging wall chart makes an eye-catching, practical and decorative addition to any child’s bedroom or playroom.

Little ones can save up their pennies in Milly&Flynn’s tin Gruffalo Money Box, which is decorated with scenes and phrases from the classic story. When it’s time to play, Gruffalo fans can also choose from a Snap Card Game, a Snakes and Ladders Game, or a Jigsaw Puzzle Play Set. Carefully created to entertain, help develop key skills and encourage imaginative play, these fun family games offer lasting appeal.

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Magformers 0800 0385195 www.magformers.co.uk Stand Gallery 540 Magformers will unveil seven new animal and vehicle themed play sets at London Toy Fair in January. All the new sets combine Magformers’ magnetic geometric pieces and a range of add-on, non-magnetic pieces which significantly increase the creativity and play value of every set.

Depending on the set, children make up to 50 different models from one box of pieces, with mini-figure characters and cute animal heads and body parts bringing fun and role-play to the fore.

There are five new vehicle lines. The Amazing Police & Rescue Set makes 30 different police and fire themed models and is joined by three larger 50-in-1 sets – the Amazing Construction Set, Amazing Police Set and Amazing Rescue Set. Special dual-purpose accessories have been developed for each set which transform, such as an emergency light block which opens out and turns into a spinning propeller; a grille that can be used as window bars or vehicle bumpers; and an angled, extendable arm that also becomes a ladder.

The vehicle line-up is completed by the 30-in-1 Amazing Transform Wheels Set featuring special adjustable in-line wheels which can be 'folded' to make robot arms. The wheel position can also be altered, depending on the vehicle being built, to suit a buggy, low-profile racer or monster truck. In all, kids can make 30 cars, bikes, SUVs and trucks from the set.

Inspired by the cute pop culture phenomenon, Magformers has renewed focus in the pre-school market with two kawaii-styled My First animal-themed sets. The Animal Jumble 40-piece and 60-piece sets offer three different ways for younger children to make models as they develop; progressing from simple 2D shape-making, to stacking and then mastering more advanced 3D model-making.

The clip-together pieces have soft, curved lines and neutral colours, while the design is characterised by oversized heads and tiny eyes – the epitome of kawaii culture.

The pieces also draw influence from stickers created for the messaging app Line by South Korean artist Kang Byeongmok; Magformers global HQ is also based in Korea.

Meanwhile, the different animal characters that can be made have typically kawaii names like Trunky (the elephant), Lofty (the giraffe) and MooMoo (the cow).

All the new sets also stay strong to Magformers’ guiding principles of being educational. Every set contains magnetic triangles, squares, rectangles, super rectangles or isosceles triangles, so children can make 2D nets and 3D structures, learning about geometry and using mathematical language as they play.

®

Exciting new products for 2019!

• Expanded range of family-focused products • New Elf Pet® • A new animated special

Visit us at London Toy Fair 22 - 24 January Stand 155 ® and © 2017 CCA and B, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

To place your order, visit www.elfontheshelf.co.uk or contact sales@babyrepublic.co.uk

Toy Fair 2019

STC (Hong Kong Standards and Testing Centre) (+8) 522 666 1888 www.stc.group Stand Gallery 165 As most in the toy industry will be aware, the United States, Europe, Japan and many other countries have tightened their safety regulations and standards for toys and children’s products. New requirements covering a wider range of products have emerged, such as the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Acts (CPSIA) in the United States, the General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) in the European Union, and the China Compulsory Certification (CCC) scheme in China.

This is where STC comes into the picture, by providing industry-leading compliance solutions to toy manufacturers and importers. Established in 1963, STC is an independent, not-for-profit testing, inspection and certification organisation with a global network headquartered in Hong Kong, offering one-stop professional conformity assessment services for customers around the world to get access to the global markets.

STC’s Toys and Children’s Products Division offers solid technical expertise and state-of-the-art testing methodology to support customers dealing with the constantly changing national and international safety regulations. It has gained recognition from the major national accreditation bodies, including Hong Kong Accreditation Service (HKAS), DAkkS in Germany, the China National Accreditation Service (CNAS), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States, the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (JMHLW), the Japan Toy Association (JTA), Japan’s Consumer Product Safety Association (CPSA), and others.

It is also a member of the China National Technical Committee of Standardization for Toys.

STC’s service scope covers not only traditional toys and children’s products, but also sporting products, such as bicycles and helmets. The company seeks to keep widening its service portfolio and expand its footprint for toys and children’s products testing around the globe.

H. Grossman 0141 613 2525 www.ozbozz.co.uk Stand E49 The Grossman stand this year will feature a range of top quality plush at attractive prices, with many items priced to retail at under £10. Alongside the award-winning plush Unicorns, which are available sitting, standing and with wings, there are llamas, sloths, flamingos, llamacorns, elephants, tigers and gorillas in a variety of sizes and colours.

The Ozbozz brand is renowned for outdoor toys, and this year new items in its portfolio are aimed at the younger market. My First Scooter has been a classic for HGL, and this year will see the addition of My First Trike and My First Balance Bike. Available in two colourways, the trike has light up wheels. Both products are sturdy and easy to manoeuvre for little hands. For slightly older children, the new Jungle Scooter has threewheels for extra stability and an eye-catching jungle design across the steering column and deck. Dog and cat lovers will enjoy the new Kitty Paw and Puppy Paw scooters, which are both decorated with appealing kitty and puppy designs.

Putty and slime are still big business, and HGL saw very strong sales across the UK last year for its glittery pots of Unicorn Poo. This year, Grossman will be introducing two new pocket money offerings to its putty range; Llama Poo and Dog Poo, the latter complete with two flies. Planet Putty will feature all the planets while Unicorn Horn slime is another best-seller. Putty and slime are just a few of the thousands of pocket money items on offer from Grossman.

Visitors to the Grossman stand can also be among the first to discover secret products which are set to be revealed at the fair.

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Accentuate Games 01420 593 593 www.accentuategames.com Stand G65 Sibling inventors Graeme and Fiona Fraser-Bell, the duo behind the hilarious guess-the-accent game Accentuate, are preparing to return to London Toy Fair with new games and the aim to strengthen their portfolio on a global scale.

Joining up with a new game designer, strategic card game Rats to Riches is the first creation from Singaporean student Eugene Lim. Based on the financial ‘Rat Race’, Rats to Riches casts every player as a filthy, scheming rat.

They all race to collect 100 coins and work their way to a better class of sewer, by investing in assets, hiring gangsters and, of course, stealing whatever they can.

Joining Rats to Riches, the team listened to its fans and as a result a new version of the hugely popular Accentuate will make its debut at Toy Fair. The number of accents has increased from 30 to 40, with the addition of some fun character accents such as Dracula and Surf Dude, while the number of film quotes has doubled. These are now housed in their very own mini-box for ease of use.

In addition, 2018 launch Frenetic is back at Toy Fair. Frenetic is the fast and furious new word game with a scientific twist; it uses element symbols of the Periodic Table. Players race against the clock to form as many words as possible using the Element symbol tiles, and score points equivalent to the atomic numbers of each tile used to create the word. For example: Ba Na Na = Banana = 78 points. The first player to 1000 points wins.

Frenetic was enthusiastically received in 2018, winning several awards and recommendations.

Eduk8 Worldwide 01434 672 336 www.eduk8worldwide.com Stand F1 Eduk8 Worldwide has found that more and more parents are keen to find alternatives to computerised play with traditional and imaginative games and toys that are educational too. At London Toy Fair the company will be launching a range that fits this bill under the brand Chalk & Chuckles, which Eduk8 is the exclusive UK distributor for. Games from Chalk & Chuckles have few instructions but endless possibilities, and don’t require a single battery.

Spearheading the range is Caring Cats, a brand new game that makes caring fun for children and families alike. Players can take turns to roll the dice and move around the town. Whether at a school, park, zoo or street, kids can leave a trail of smiles as they walk the mile by playing any one of the five Caring Cats, each with their unique care style. Players can collect charms by making something kind, being thoughtful or cheering up someone with their words, but they must be careful of rolling the Mean Mouse or being bugged out on the Mean Hill. The first player to collect five charms wins the game.

Christine Lawson, MD at Eduk8 Worldwide, strongly believes that encouraging kindness and thoughtfulness is one of the best ways to help children prevent bullying, as “acting with kindness improves our physical health, mental health and wellbeing in general”. Caring Cats is a fun game that educates children in very simple terms about how to act with kindness, and the company is sure it will hold huge appeal in the marketplace.

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The Home of Classic Characters

y Fair, E120 o T : t a ction e l l r, Hall 5, Stand H21 i o a C F g 9 1 n 0 i 2 See our complete & Spr 2 2 E d Nuremberg Toy Fair, Hall 1, Stan www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Toy Fair 2019

Alpha Animation & Toys 01293 804 599 www.auldeytoys.us Stand B90 2019 is Alpha Animation & Toy’s inaugural appearance at London Toy Fair. As a global leader in content creation and toy design, the group knows what makes strong and compelling products for retail and consumer audiences. Attending the fair will allow the company to showcase its new and award-winning portfolio of products and to offer support to retail partners, both existing and new.

Success for the popular animation Super Wings continues, and Alpha will be revealing new offerings from the pre-school show. Series 3 is readying for take-off with a new twist on the plot, featuring Mission Teams for each core character, which acts as a basis for the new collection.

Key highlights include the Build-it Buddies. A new 3-in-1 transforming vehicle called Remi, a member of Donnie’s Build-it team, features a cement mixer, crane and dump truck, the big construction claw, plus space for other members in Donnie's team, allowing Super Wings fans to re-enact their favourite missions from the show. The Super Wings range covers all price points, from everyday impulse lines to hero pieces for those special buying occasions.

Retailers are invited to get hands on with the new transforming vehicles and Transform-a-Bot formats, both of which add innovation and interactive fun to the range.

High Flying Jett brings a new element to the collection, allowing children to launch him into the sky. Jett will be making an appearance at the show too, not only taking part in the character parade but flying high over Alpha’s stand.

The TV advertised Massive Monster Mayhem is set to wreak havoc with new super-sized inflatable play products from the action-packed massive monster toy range. The range brings to life the intergalactic action from the over-the-top TV show. Alpha is also unveiling Smacktion figures, motion-activated foam Power Punchers and a range of oversized role-play toys.

Alpha Animation will be celebrating the 20th Anniversary of SpongeBob SquarePants with an exclusive new range. The iconic character, who is celebrated for his humour and silly personality, is reflected in a range which will encourage children to get their hands dirty and embrace their adventurous side.

Finally, the thunderous power of the Grrrumball gets its first outing. This must-see RC toy delivers super-fast spin attacks and the ultimate arm smash from the SFX controller. With light up eyes, the monstrous Grrrumball is set to send any opponent into a spin.

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Hornby Hobbies 01843 233 500 www.hornby.com Stand B20 Hornby Hobbies signed a global partnership with Warner Bros.

Consumer Products in 2018, and the official ranges have recently been announced. For Hornby and Corgi, a range of Harry Potter licensed products will be available including a Harry Potter Hornby train set and accompanying accessories, plus a range of Corgi die cast collectible models such as the Hogwarts Express and Ford Anglia. Ideal for die cast collectors and Harry Potter fans alike, the detail and quality promises to be impeccable.

Micro Scalextric will be offering a range of sets and cars from Looney Tunes, Wacky Races and Justice League, with sets that feature loops and half pipes. Racers will get the chance to battle as their favourite caped crusader - Wonder Woman or Man of Steel - or recreate their own Wacky scene in the Mean Machine or Compact Pussy Cat. There will also by a new My First Looney Tunes set for the pre-school racer, with the option of racing as Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck.

Scalextric is also adding new technology to its 1:32 scale sets with Spark Plug. This latest innovation from the brand allows fans to race their car using their smart device. Racers simply plug the Spark Plug dongle into their Scalextric powerbase rather than a traditional hand controller, download the app and race away with no more wires. Other in-app features include single player or versus mode options, the ability for racers to boost their own speed while restricting their opponents’, and added rumble and sound effects on their personalised account.

Corgi will be introducing a new range in 2019 for kids aged 3-6.

Construction and emergency vehicles form part of the new Chunkies toy range, which is sure to delight youngsters with its wide array of vehicles and moving parts. Kids can collect and play with up to 36 items from this new range.

Humbrol’s Painta Pet will also be introduced in 2019. This new fun craft range gives the kids the chance to paint their favourite family pet in 3D. When painted, the cat, dog, horse or small pet can be mounted in a frame, to be displayed for all to see. Following the Pet range will be Painta Dinosaurs and Painta Unicorns.

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Toy Fair 2019

Marbel 08456 000 286 www.marbel.co.uk Stand B50 At this year’s London Toy Fair, Marbel will be presenting a selection of brands packed with the latest product releases, including plenty of new arrivals from Hape Toys.

Visitors to the stand can view new developments within the Hape Music range, which benefits from a whole new redesign with the toddler and pre-school markets in mind. The instrument line allows children to play music in real life, and to explore the concepts of rhythm and sound at home, helping to spark an interest in music from a young age. Additions to the popular range include the Rainbow Xylophone, Blue/Red Ukulele, Percussion Duo, Clap-Along Castanets and Tap-Along Tambourine, among others.

Hape also continues to extend existing ranges such as Hape Infant, which offers products that focus on a baby’s early needs; training, playing, self-discovery and movement. Hape continues to utilise sustainably sourced materials in new textures for added sensory development, which are reflected as bright and cheerful designs incorporating loveable garden creatures. Products include the Garden Friends Play Arch, Bumblebee Pram Chain and Ladybug Pacifier Clip.

Hape will also be unveiling new concepts at London Toy Fair such as the Junior Inventor range, suitable for children aged four and above. Offering anything from 3-15 experiments, the concept is based on a process of trial, error and creation. The kits offer children the fun of invention and experimentation at their fingertips, as they explore the basics of physics phenomena and learn how these simple scientific principle apply to the real world. A number of different kits are available to choose from, depending on parental budget and the child’s skill level; kids can start with the compact Science Experiment Toolbox before advancing to Hape’s Deluxe Scientific Workbench when they’re up to the challenge.

Visitors to the stand can also receive further information on Marbel’s other brands, including Nanoblock, Kathe Kruse, Relevant Play, Nebulous Stars and Eureka Kids.

Jumbo Games 01707 289 289 www.jumbo.eu Stand E46 Jumbo welcomes six new Wasjig puzzles across the Original, Destiny and Mystery puzzle concepts. The new releases will include the Wasgij Original 31: Safari Surprise!, Wasgij Destiny 19: The Puzzlers Arms! and Wasgij Mystery 16: Birthday Surprise!, all across 1,000-piece formats. Jumbo will also be re-releasing the third installments in the Wasgij Retro range, with the titles Original 3: Full Monty Fever!, Destiny 3: The Sands of Time! and Mystery 3: Drama at the Opera! in 1,000-piece formats.

New puzzle releases to Jumbo’s Falcon de luxe range will include 20 new puzzles; 10 in January and a further 10 for April.

These new puzzles cover the traditional Falcon themes of Nostalgia, Scenery, Cottages, Animals and Transport, across varying piece counts from 500XL to 1,500-pieces. The puzzles include A Summer Evening at the Pub 2x500-piece, A Day on the River, Farmer’s Market and The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage 1,000-piece, and A Beautiful Summer’s Day 2x1000-piece box set. Jumbo will be releasing a further 20+ Falcon puzzles for autumn/winter.

Jumbo will be expanding its range of Disney Classic Collection puzzles. New additions include a 1,000-piece puzzle for both Aladdin and Dumbo featuring classic artwork from the original films, to celebrate the release of the live-action movies. Looking ahead to the autumn/winter movie releases, Jumbo will also be releasing 1,000-piece Movie Poster Puzzles for both The Lion King and The Little Mermaid.

Jumbo is launching six new Jan van Haasteren puzzles for spring, including the 500XL-Piece The Kitchen, the 1,000-piece Camping in the Forest, Acrobat Circus and National Puzzle Championship, as well as a 1,500-piece Highland Games puzzle.

Two new tabletop games join the Strategy Game range. Caper challenges two players to draft their team of Thieves and arrange their Gear strategically to collect sets and make card combinations, all while trying to steal from three central locations.

Overbooked is an interactive strategy puzzle game. Players have been thrust into the world of airline booking and are tasked with managing competing airlines. The aim is to satisfy each passenger’s different needs to score prestige for the airline.

Jumbo will also be unveiling key pre-school and children’s puzzles & games including its new range of Disney Toy Story 4 and Frozen II products, as well as Moon & Me puzzles. To accompany these new children’s ranges, Jumbo is also launching a range of puzzles for the Disney Muppet Babies and Fancy Nancy properties.

Lastly, Jumbo is launching a new environmentally friendly Eco-Games range, focusing on games made with recycled materials. Four Eco-Games are available - Catch the Mouse, Colour Chameleon, Honey Yummy and Peek-a-Boo. At Toy Fair, Jumbo will also be showcasing 12 new wooden products from its Goula range; Peacock Puzzle, Magnetic Interchangeable Farm Animals Puzzles, Bunny’s Garden Balancing Game and Robot Mix.

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Toy Fair 2019

Bandai 020 8324 6160 www.bandai.co.uk Stand Gallery 600 Visitors to London Toy Fair can expect to see further series of Smooshy Mushy, the squishy, scented surprise collectible brand. Throughout 2019, kids can get their hands on new themes, new Besties and new innovation, all developed to ensure the enduring appeal of the Smooshy Mushy range.

Bananas is the latest collectible craze to hit the market, which sees silly characters hiding inside pieces of tropical fruit. Series 2 launches for spring/summer and sees the introduction of new Bananas and fruits with all-new characters to collect too. Moving into autumn, Series 3 will include chocolate-dipped bananas, plus even more fruits and play sets.

The popular Rescue Runts brand is expanding with the introduction of Rescue Runts Babies, an assortment of 16 different 12.5cm plush creatures for kids to rescue, love and care for. In addition, the existing four Rescue Runts are joined by new puppies for autumn/ winter 2019. Designed to nurture a child’s love of animals and show them how caring for a pet can result in great things, each Rescue Runt needs love and care before it can transform into the perfect pet.

Pretty Pixels Eraser Maker is a craft activity that lets users make their own erasers from pixel templates. Offering plenty of opportunity for eraser creativity across various price points, themes include the Animal Deluxe Set, which makes 16 erasers, the Fairy or Cool themed starter sets, and the Cute Mini set.

Slurpees Snot Suckers combine the collectible and slime crazes. Wave 2, launching spring, will see more snotty characters join the mix, and for autumn/winter the Slurpees will go big with Mega Mites, as well as microscopic with Micro Mites.

Following the October TV release of the new ITV series Robozuna, Bandai will follow its spring/summer 2019 toy launch with phase 2 for autumn/winter including role-play and articulated figures. The Robozuna range will be supported by heavyweight marketing including TV and a digital campaign featuring the stars of the show, Ali A and Ethan Gamer.

Taking the arcade home in 2019, classics such as Mole King and Hammer King are brought to finger sized format, while Bandai’s games portfolio welcomes the Zanzoon Games brand, with titles including Magic Jinn, Froggy Party and Fan Zone.

Clementoni 020 3206 1397 www.clementoni.com Stand 140 Gallery 140

NEW for 2019!

Clementoni is putting a strong focus on the Infant market at Toy Fair with Baby Clementoni, while its Education and Development category welcomes engaging new scientific launches.

New for 2019 is the Baby Clementoni Llama, an adorable plush pal for babies from six months of age. This lovable creature will entertain little ones with a host of sound and light effects, and helps development by teaching letters, numbers and colours. This charming discovery toy helps further babies’ development in an easy and engaging way.

The Interactive Hippo is suitable for aged nine months and above. The hippo dances, sings and claps his hands, and is packed with interactive features for hours of fun as babies learn their first numbers, colours and animals.

Also in the line-up is Turbo Track, the first interactive talking race track designed for babies. Two cars are included, and with features such as lap counts, pit stops and the ability to overtake by going under the bridge, little ones from 10 months and over can enjoy car racing fun.

The science category has always been strong for Clementoni, with robotic and coding kits being best-sellers throughout 2018. Joining the range for 2019 is pet_bits, interactive new coding pets that each have their own personality and voice. The four collectible animals – bunny_ bit, panda_bit, cat_bit and dog_bit – interact with each other when brought together, and they also offer solo play potential with interactive functions such as hand clap reaction, and voice recording and playback.

A coding app brings the pet_bits world to life, allowing children to learn all about their pet_bit as they take care of them through three stages of development, using their voice to programme, teach and nurture.

For slightly older children, Clementoni is launching Science Museum Action & Reaction. With this unique scientific kit, finding out about the wonders of physics becomes easy and fun. Featuring a variety of special pieces and accessories - scales, a hammer, pendulum, slides, towers and lots more - the kits offer a host of play options, so kids can experiment with gravity, forces and levers. As kids develop their knowledge, they can build ever more ingenious compositions.

The licensed puzzle range from Clementoni continues to be a strong foundation of the business. New launches for children are tied into popular licences including the hotly anticipated 2019 cinematic releases Frozen 2 and Toy Story 4.

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Toy Fair 2019

Posh Paws 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Stand D90 Posh Paws will be showcasing a host of new properties and plenty of new additions to some of the most popular licences of the year this January.

2019 will see the team bring a plethora of Disney properties to life in plush form.

Aladdin, Dumbo, The Lion King and Toy Story 4 are included among new collections launching early 2019. With all four properties set for movie releases this year, the Posh Paws collections are perfectly timed for new and existing fans looking to collect their favourite Disney friends.

With the premier of Disney’s new Dumbo movie set for March 2019, the retail market is gearing up to be overtaken by the floppy eared elephant. As official plush partner, Posh Paws is also readying itself for the launch of its Dumbo soft toys range, which includes four different sizes of the world’s most recognisable elephant.

Toy Fair will also be the place to see Posh Paws’ Aladdin collection, which will be launching in support of the May movie release. Aladdin, Jasmin and Genie will all be available in 10” and 20” versions, with recognisable Posh Paws quality and detail.

Posh Paws has been named as the official plush partner across EMEA for the 2019 release of How to Train your Dragon: The Hidden World. With product available now, the range includes small, medium and large versions of the key Dragons from the franchise, and as an added extra the medium and large plush comes with glow in the dark features to really bring each dragon to life.

As official plush partner, Posh Paws is also readying itself for the launch of Toy Story 4 soft toys which will be on display for the first time at London Toy Fair with new, never seen before characters currently under wraps. The range consists of old favourites alongside the new, in multiple sizes so fans can go to infinity and beyond with their collecting.

Red Knight Toy Group 07539 109 569 Stand Gallery 148

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The Northern Ireland-based Red Knight Toy Group (RKTG) is exhibiting at this year’s Toy Fair under its own umbrella for the first time.

For company MD Rory Kelly this will be Toy Fair No. 4, having attended previous shows with the team at Story Cubes and Coiledspring Games.

As well as continuing its representation of Wrebbit3D puzzles on an international basis, Red Knight has partnered with Brain Games to help promote its ever-popular range to the UK and Irish market. Additionally, this year’s booth will include demonstrations of the GutterHead board game from Gutter Games. This hilarious British-designed board game is described as ‘what happens when Cards Against Humanity meets Pictionary’, with hilarious consequences.

RKTG has secured the exclusive rights to distribute new ranges from The Good Games Company. Good Games has brought some major new titles to the market this year, with RKTG set to distribute Idiom Addict and DooDad, the latter being a code game of icons in which players use letter cards to spell the word DooDad. It sounds simple, but the symbols and/or colour on the adjacent cards need to match to spell out the perfect high-scoring word. Participants can steal cards from other players, as they try to score as high as they can to win the game.

Epic Beard Game has already drawn large interest across the UK gaming sector. An ideal gift for peak season, this bluffing card game offers a hint of a classic poker night. Players can try to bluff a double Rocky Balboa, or outwit an opponent who is playing a double Van Dyke.

Whichever way they play it, bluffers must get rid of their Beardless Harry as quickly as they can.

Further additions to the Red Knight range for 2019 include the strong line up of card games from Binca. The games company made a big impact in 2018 on its debut at the UK Games Expo, where it saw success with the card game White Washers. Binca is following up this success with its combined word-game system, Fletter and Fletter Fuse, which are both already making waves in the education sector. In Fletter, players take turns to show cards which include single letters, with each player needing to be the fastest to spot words that appear at random. The first to shout out the words wins those card, each of which has a point value.

Players compete over four rounds, looking for everything from threeletter words through to six-letter words. The game may sound simple, but each round becomes more frantic. In Fletter Fuse, the cards contain double and triple letter words as well as some hidden extras to spice up the gameplay.

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Toy Fair 2019

Magic Box Toys 01403 251 286 www.magicboxint.com Stand GH54 Magic Box Toys, the collectible toy specialist behind Star Monsters, Zomlings and SuperZings, has announced plans for a third series of SuperZings, plus the launch of a brand new emotions-based collectible IP for 2019 – MojiPops.

Set to hit shelves on 8th February following a successful Series 2 launch in September, the collectible toy brand SuperZings continues to evolve for Series 3 with innovative new additions to the line-up SuperZings Series 3 maintains the popular ‘hero vs villain’ format of the previous two series using everyday objects and food as collectible characters. Hideouts have been given a premium overhaul for Series 3 in the form of Kaboom Blasters which make SuperHero or Villainous sound effects. SuperZings Super Slider vehicles also get an upgrade for Series 3, and for the first time will include a pull-back motor for added play value. Also new for this series are eight futuristic, articulated robot characters, plus starter and blister packs to encourage collectability.

MojiPops Series 1 is made up of everyday objects brought to life as unique, fun-loving characters with an array of colourful emotions based on popular emoticons. From an ice cream to a cactus, and a television to a pillow, each blind-bagged character has a removeable double-sided face; kids can flip it over to switch between emoticon-based expressions depicting a huge variety of sentiments, or even swap faces completely with another character in the collection. Children can also switch their character’s mood from sleepy to happy, sad to cool, as there are six different-coloured face pieces, each with two distinct emotions to alternate between. The series features 90 different characters to collect from the worlds of pets, home, nature, travel, music, food and sport, including six ultra-rare Glitter Moji Pops. These new characters, and the accompanying accessories and toy range, offer hours of role-playing potential for young Moji Pops collectors.

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A.B.Gee of Ripley

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Following on from a strong and successful year, 2019 is shaping up to be productive for A.B.Gee as it continues to strengthen its varied portfolio of high-quality toys.

New for 2019, and launching at Toy Fair, is a range of premium woven plush animals. Each design is beautifully crafted and exclusive to A.B.Gee. The range includes Mr Fox, who stands 40cm tall. Made of natural and soft woven fabric with a cute embroidered face, he wears blue and white stripy clothes and a very dapper cravat.

Mr Fox is just one of the options from A.B.Gee’s new woven collection, which captures the current trend for natural, soft and traditional toys. Supplied at extremely competitive price points, the range offers retailers a very attractive POR when compared with ranges from a number of competitors.

A.B.Gee will again be representing many big-name lines, in some cases exclusively. Visitors to the stand can view the new lines from Mattel, MGA Entertainment (including Little Tikes and Zapf), Make it Real, TellTails, Cheatwell, Learning Resources and Trefl puzzles.

Another highlight on the stand is the premium bubble manufacturer Dulcop. Founded in 1938, it is the only bubble manufacturer in the world to obtain the highest EC TYPE Certificate, covering the whole range of soap bubbles and bubble toys. Dulcop is renowned for quality, and offers a strong range including popular licences such as Barbie, Peppa Pig, Hot Wheels, Shimmer & Shine, Paw Patrol and many more.

A.B.Gee will also unveil new pre-school range Chuckles. The range comprises 16 classically designed pre-school toys packed with functions that will keep little ones playing for hours. Including Build & Play, Bath Time, Peg Basher, Musical & Pull along toys, the line has been designed to develop dexterity, problem solving and concentration whilst encouraging creative and imaginative play.

As well as new toys and games, A.B.Gee will present of a raft of favourite names including Play-Doh, My Little Pony, Barbie, Disney Princess, Baby Annabel, WWE, Marvel Avengers, Peppa Pig, FisherPrice, Little Tikes, Thomas & Friends, Num Noms, Nerf, Hot Wheels and many more.

The company has a large open stand with dedicated display areas filled with affordable toys for all ages, including early years, boys, girls, plush, wooden, craft, role-play, puzzles, games, outdoor, remote control and die cast. A.B.Gee aims to be a ‘one stop shop’ supplying wholesalers, large high street outlets, online stores and independent retailers alike.

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Toy Fair 2019

Orchard Toys 01953 423 422 www.orchardtoys.com Stand B12 Orchard Toys adds five new products to its growing educational range; a new sound matching game with supporting app, a magic literacy game, a three dimensional counting and addition board game, a number puzzle for toddlers and a dinosaur lotto for pre-schoolers. The award-winning manufacturer has worked innovative twists into several of the new launches, which visitors to its Toy Fair stand can experience for themselves. Orchard Toys will also be offering an attractive promotion to all customers placing orders at the show.

Sound Detective is the first Orchard Toys product that can be used in conjunction with the new free Orchard Toys app. In this detective-themed game, players listen to the sound clues within the app and match them to their picture cards to build a path and catch the thief. The game of chance encourages the development of children’s observational skills through both sight and sound, whilst offering simple and fun gameplay to engage a wide variety of ages.

Magic Spelling is a literacy based counterpart product to Magic Maths, which has been a success since its launch 18 months ago. Players race against the timer to discover hidden letters to spell out words, before using the magical rub-andreveal cards to check that they have spelt the words correctly. If they have, players get to collect the ingredients listed in their magic spell book to win the game. Magic Spelling is ideal for school children aged 5-7, supporting literacy skills in line with the national curriculum.

Counting Mountain is a fun counting and addition game for 4-8 year olds, featuring a 3D board and plethora of mountain animals. Players take turns to flip over two cards at a time, add them together and move that number of spaces along the board as they race to reach the top of the mountain. However, players must watch out for the yetis who live on the mountain, as they can send them backwards or even chase all players off the mountain altogether, right back to the start.

Dirty Dinos is a fun traditional lotto game, with simple gameplay and quirky, engaging characters that will capture the imaginations of children aged 3-6. Players match and collect dirty dinosaurs to fill their bath tub in this colour, counting and observation game, which offers three ways to play. The player with the most bubbles at the end wins the game.

Number Street is the latest addition to Orchard Toys’ jigsaw range. The 20-piece floor puzzle helps children learn their numbers from 1-10. The character jigsaw features large, chunky pieces, helping to develop manual dexterity. Number Street also includes a giant pull out poster.

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Paul Lamond Games 020 7254 0100 www.paul-lamond.com Stand E50 At the London Toy Fair, Paul Lamond Games will be asking the question: Are you Dumber than a Box of Rocks? This new, quick play trivia game is easy to learn and is ideal for parties as any number of players can take part. Visitors to the fair are invited to take the challenge for themselves.

As well as Are you Dumber than a Box of Rocks, the games and puzzles specialist will be launching a series of games for all the family including Tip of the Tongue. This innovative, easy to learn and fast-paced game will have the family in stitches, as players have just two seconds to answer the quick-fire trivia questions. While players may have the answer on the tip of their tongue, it’s up to them to think fast and spit it out.

Also new to the family games portfolio is Shaboom! From kids to grandparents and everyone in between, Shaboom! brings the whole family together. Using the colourful components in their tray, players must stack, roll, bounce, and spell their way to victory. The first to complete ten tasks wins the game.

For the younger board game players, Gangsta Granny Stash the Swag is a new board game that fans of The World of David Walliams are sure to enjoy. Based on the best-selling book by the author-comedian, the game sees players aid Granny and Ben as they attempt to avoid the Queen and collect and stash all the ‘jewels’, ultimately trying to be the first player to spell out the word Gangsta. This is an engaging and easy to play family board game that encourages strategic thinking.

Flickin’ Chicken is a hilarious game of insane chicken throwing. The chickens bounce and roll, making it challenging for the flicker to hit the target. A go-anywhere game, Flickin’ Chicken is perfect for the garden, the park, the beach and for taking on holiday.

Paul Lamond also welcomes I Spy Eagle Eye to its family games portfolio. It is a race to ring the bell as players use their eagle eyes to spot an item on their card which is also on their game board. A pre-school version is also available in which players match riddles with pictures; interlocking pairs ensure only correct matches are possible.

Other new 2019 releases from Paul Lamond include a colourful preschool series of 35-piece puzzles and a Memory Game in an embossed tin, starring the renowned Oi Frog! Oi Cat! and Oi Dog! characters from the award-winning rhyming storybooks.

019 2 g n i Spr al t i g i D TV and

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... toys for a brighter future

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01628 488944

Toy Fair 2019

Asmodee 01420 593 593 www.asmodee.co.uk Stand E109 Asmodee UK is returning to Toy Fair in 2019 with a number of new additions to its extensive line-up of games, collectibles and toys, making it a must-visit stand for show attendees.

One of the highlights of the Asmodee stand will be the introduction of a dedicated Party Games range. This brand-new roster of fun, casual games with simple and accessible rules has been designed to excel with larger groups, and is guaranteed to get friends and families laughing together.

Headlining the Party Games collection is Telestrations, a new addition to the Asmodee catalogue for 2019. The game sees players sketch out a word from a secret card, then pass their drawing to their neighbour. The neighbour then writes down what they think the word was, before that word is passed along again for another drawing, and so on. Watching a word get distorted round by round – or unexpectedly making it all the way without any mistakes – is a sure way to get the whole table in stitches.

Telestrations is joined by the creative word-association game Just One, and the clues and mimes of Time’s Up, which benefits from a fresh new edition focused on the UK market. Riotous dexterity-based fun is provided by the games Crazy Eggz and Maki Stack.

There will be a big presence from the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) at the Asmodee stand, as befits the continuing success of this powerhouse collectible. Awareness of the brand is set to surge further in 2019 with the upcoming release of its first-ever live-action movie, Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, after the film’s first trailer was met with high praise in November last year.

The TCG itself will be attracting attention with a brand-new Tag Team mechanic, which for the first time ever pairs up two iconic Pokémon on one card. Having joined forces, these pairs boast some of the most powerful attacks ever seen in the Pokémon TCG, but must be protected at all costs to avoid severe penalties. This offers a fresh challenge to master for both new and veteran players alike.

Toy Fair also offers visitors the chance to try out Dice Academy, a new entry into Asmodee’s successful range of Fun Fast Games. This portable game of speedy association sees players roll dice that show a category, such as a singer or item of clothing, as well as a letter. The players then compete to name things from those categories that start with the designated letters. This accessible, brain-teasing game is a natural fit with Fun Fast Games, a range comprising the best of Asmodee’s quick-playing, demonstration-friendly titles.

Dobble is a key part of the Fun Fast Games collection, and the game of matching symbols is expanding its range after a stellar year. A signature product for Asmodee, Dobble sold its millionth copy in the UK in 2018 and stands as the year’s single biggest-selling game. Visitors to the Asmodee stand will be able to preview multiple new versions of the game.

Also included in Fun Fast Games are the likes of Rory’s Story Cubes, Who Did It?, Cobra Paw and the ever-popular Bananagrams, which has enjoyed a strong first year under the Asmodee UK umbrella. The hit game, in which players use letter tiles to build connected grids of words, is gearing up for a relaunched version of its successful partnership with schools. Over 1,600 schools currently participate in the Bananagrams Challenge, which translates to over 40,000 students playing the game and having fun whilst also developing their vocabulary and problem-solving skills Asmodee will also be displaying its Modern Classics collection, which highlights bigger-box board games that have played a large part in the growth of the tabletop gaming market in recent years. Great for getting families sitting around a table together, these titles offer a variety of gameplay styles that reflect the vast range of products available in modern board gaming, whilst all being accessible for anyone who wants to play.

The Modern Classics range includes Catan, the bestselling game of trading and expansion on a fertile island, plus the railway-building Ticket to Ride and the medieval tile-laying Carcassonne. Also featured are the creative interpretation game Dixit, the clever gemtrading action of Splendor, and Pandemic - the pioneering cooperative game that sees all players working together to fight the spread of deadly diseases.

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NICK.COM/SPONGEBOB © 2019 Alpha All rights reserved. © 2019 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Created by Stephen Hillenburg.

Toy Fair 2019

Canal Toys 07492 411 142 www.canaltoys.fr Stand G125 Canal Toys, an arts & crafts market leader, unveils its hero lines for 2019. To support its retail partners throughout the launches, Canal Toys is investing in a series of integrated marketing campaigns including TV and digital advertising, PR campaigns across national press, lifestyle and parenting, influencer and online press. Canal Toys, which launched into the UK in 2018, is building on its success to date with key lines and is bringing innovation through new product categories.

Now available nationwide, So Bomb DIY creates fizzy bath bombs that are ready to use in just 30 minutes. Everything kids need is inside the box, and each pack includes a charming collectible figurine. New shapes will be introduced to the range for autumn/winter 2019, but visitors to the London Toy Fair will be able to see the full range on the Canal Toys stand.

The Original DIY Slime brand is bigger and better than ever before. This year sees three new ranges joining the best-selling So Slime DIY brand. Launching in Q1, the So Slime DIY Colour Change range magically transforms in front of kids’ eyes as they warm it in their hands. For slime fans who want something different, the new So Slime DIY Factory, available in April, now comes with six slime designs including crystal, starry, glow in the dark, colour change, glitter and crunchy. Finally, available in February and combining two classic play patterns, the new Slime Bubble kit turns slime into fun bubbles and transforms it back again in seconds.

Kids can light up their rooms with the new Glow in The Dark Magic Jars.

The three pack includes a cute collectible, glitter, stickers and glow in the dark confetti. Children simply mix up the coloured powder, glow in the dark confetti and glitter with water. Next, they can decorate their jar any way they want, and then shake it. By turning off the lights, kids can watch the confetti glow and the Magic Jar light up and shimmer.

The new Style 4 Ever Cryst-a-Gel collection combines art, design and jewels in one box. Everything kids need to design their own cosmic jewellery is inside, allowing crafters to create bracelets, pendants and rings using the coloured gels and moulds. Mixing them with glitter results in a child’s own bespoke accessories.

An exciting and innovative range is set for launch in autumn/winter 2019.

Canal Toys has been secretly designing a new line of arts & crafts products that it says need to be seen to be believed. Suitable for children aged six and over, these creative sets will be revealed to visitors at the London Toy Fair.

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THE LEGO® MOVIE 2™ © & ™ DC Comics, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. & The LEGO Group.

LEGO, the LEGO logo, DUPLO, the Minifigure and the Brick and Knob configurations are trademarks and/or copyrights of the LEGO Group. ©2019 The LEGO Group.

All rights reserved. WB SHIELD: TM & © WBEI. (s19)

Toy Fair 2019

Brainstorm 01200 445 113 www.brainstormltd.co.uk Stand E79 Brainstorm is set to launch an array of new products and brands at London Toy Fair 2019, with arts & crafts range Eugy taking centre stage.

Distributed exclusively in the UK by Brainstorm, the company states that Eugy is ‘unlike anything seen before’ and customers are invited to the Brainstorm stand to see the product for themselves.

Created in New Zealand by Dodoland, Eugy is an eco-friendly craft collectible that allows children to create their own 3D models using environmentally friendly, biodegradable card printed with natural eco-friendly inks. The simple numerical sequence assembly belies the intricate creations children can make; a collection of cute animals and creatures including a dinosaur, panda, elephant and more. Kids can collect them all as well as enjoying the fun educational facts that accompany each model.

London Toy Fair wouldn’t be the same without StikBot, the stop-frame animation social sharing toy that has enjoyed success at the show for the past few years. In 2019, Brainstorm will launch StikBot Monsters, a highly anticipated addition to the range and one which allows retailers to capitalise on the collectability of the brand. Fans can also try to collect all six StikBot Monster Capsules in Brainstorm’s latest collectible assortment. Each capsule includes a collector’s sheet, and one capsule in every 16 will feature a rare Monster. StikBot Mega Monsters also launch with scary StikBots - Cerberus the three-headed dog; the indestructible Gigantus; and the fire breathing dragon Scorch. The existing StikBot collection, including StikBot Dinosaurs, Animals, Zanimation and more, continues at retail.

The Brainstorm Toys brand is synonymous with quality educational toys, and the company’s product development team continuously adds new lines to inspire a love of learning. This year will see more new lines added than ever before. The Outer Space Rocket Projector & Nightlight is predicted to be hugely popular during 2019, a year which celebrates 50 years since the first Moon Landing. This retro style red rocket not only acts as an asteroid nightlight but as a mini projector too. While it’s the ideal size for fitting onto a bedside table, the projector is also capable of projecting 24 high-quality images up to one metre wide on walls and ceilings. A Sea Creatures Projector & Nightlight also launches this year, giving children aged three and over a fascinating insight into the world beneath the sea.

The successful Torch & Projector range continues to expand with the addition of the Pirate Torch & Projector. A strong impulse price point product, this must-have product for pirate fans features 24 themed images. A Mermaid Torch is also available, so kids can enjoy seeing pictures of mermaids and their friends projected onto their walls and ceilings.

Kids can get outdoors in spring/summer with new Brainstorm products set to launch in the Outdoor Adventure collection, including Outdoor Adventure Camping Projector. The 3-in-1 light can be used when camping or in the bedroom, and allows children to project images inspired by nature, whilst the base of the Camping Light also projects a star light show. The product also features a nightlight mode with campfire effect; the perfect accompaniment to family camping trips.

Parents and guardians can teach children how to navigate and explore the outdoors with the brand new Outdoor Adventure Compass. Kids can learn all about navigation and grid references with a simple yet fun guide, then set off on expeditions. The Outdoor Adventure Compass includes a magnifier and travel direction arrow with measurements in mm and inches. It’s also waterproof and comes with its own protective lanyard.

The Original Glowstars Company has been lighting up children’s bedrooms for the past 30 years and Brainstorm continues to innovate and refresh the brand. This year, two brand new products will be introduced at Toy Fair. Capitalising on the ever-popular unicorn craze, Glow Stars & Unicorns includes eight colourful glow unicorns and 35 Glitter Stars, ideal for decorating a child’s bedroom, while the Glitter Unicorns blister pack comes with a selection of pink glitter unicorns and pink glitter stars.

Each glow star features adhesive backing, allowing it to stick easily to any flat surface.

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Rainbow Designs 01329 227 300 www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk Stand E120 The Very Hungry Caterpillar looks set to take centre stage at this year’s Toy Fair, thanks to the classic character’s 50th anniversary and a new nursery toy range from Rainbow Designs.

Brand new from the ‘Home of Classic Characters’ is the Tiny and Very Hungry Caterpillar Collection, based on Eric Carle’s charming and hugely successful picture books. This new collection features an eye-catching selection of products crafted specifically for the newborn to 18 months age range.

New nursery toys include a wooden and plush Ring Rattle, a colourful apple-shaped Comfort Blanket with attachable clip, and a textured Jiggle Attachable Toy. Also new from Rainbow are Booties, which come presented in a gift box, a developmental Activity Spiral, and a fun-packed Activity Toy for enjoyable sensory play.

To mark the 50th Anniversary of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Rainbow Designs will also be launching the colourful and cuddly Made With Love Very Hungry Caterpillar, created from knit fabric with embroidered detail to give a stylish homespun feel.

Retailers can join Rainbow in celebrating the landmark anniversary of this evergreen brand, and the launch of the new Tiny and Very Hungry Caterpillar range, with a party on Rainbow’s stand. Anniversary celebrations will include Very Hungry Caterpillar-themed goodie bags and cake, as well as a visit from the Hungry Caterpillar himself.

Another spring arrival also on show is the new Dumbo range, created to coincide with the anticipated launch of Disney’s Dumbo movie in March. Rainbow’s new collection, starring Disney’s most famous elephant, features soft and cuddly plush Dumbo toys, available in three sizes, as well as a baby soft Dumbo Ring Rattle and Comfort Blanket.

Retailers can also look forward to the arrival of a brand new My First Thomas & Friends range, previewing at Toy Fair, which will launch later this year.

Toy Fair Stand GH05

Great gifts for little learners Watches & clocks that kids can easily read

www.easyreadtimeteacher.com

| 01684 566832

Toy Fair 2019

John Adams 01480 414 361 www.johnadams.co.uk Stand Gallery 100 Colouring just got more creative with ColourMazing, the new patented way to colour the world. Kids can use the pens and watch the ink spread without going out of the lines. The successful Blopens range is welcoming new products at key price points including a Toy Story 4 Easel, Creative Eggs, a special Rainbow Set and Blopens Squeezy, a great starter kit for tiny hands. Pixelo lets young artists create vibrant, colourful artwork with incredible dotted effects. The line now includes Pixelo Cuties, cute and quirky character sheets for kids to colour in with pastel dots. eZee Beads has added Surprise Bags at pocket money prices; kids can collect and create cute designs with six characters available in each series. With the Eraser Studio range, children can also make their own erasers with mouldable magic clay. Ideal for pencil cases and stationery enthusiasts, kids simply create, bake, collect and erase.

Paw Patrol fans will enjoy the new Glowpad, which features their favourite firefighting pups. Simply use the neon markers to draw and then switch it on to see the pictures glow and transform. Fans of My Little Pony can explore a whole glitter universe with the new Glitterizz set, which lets them personalise pony pictures with colourful glitter.

Pre-schoolers can bring their imaginations to life with the Play Stuff range. The range of dough kits all come with fold-out play areas, which are wipe clean and have illustrated play scenes on. The kits pack away with a handy clip and the dough can be stored neatly in the product after play has finished.

John Adams continues to lead the way in the Action Science category. Science in Wonderland is a new way for kids to explore science in a fairy garden; they can make flowers bloom in seconds, create a kaleidoscope in a tree stump, use solar energy to make a ladybird’s wings fly and get their fairy to dance, as well as much more.

Following the success of brands such as Soggy Doggy and Mr Pop, John Adams’ range of Ideal games grows again in strength and volume. Families can lose those extra Christmas pounds with the family game Shake Off, where the more players shake, the more they score. The family challenge game Whoopee Doo is sure to get the whole family giggling; players must sit on the large inflatable whoopee cushion and complete challenges before the time runs out, otherwise they’ll blow off in front of everybody. New action game Shark Chase sees players trying to escape the hungry shark. Players can also test their skills against the clock in a fast-paced game of Clock It. Say, draw or mime, this game is a race against time.

With Tetris celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2019, the collection has been extended to include new single and multiplayer games all based around the iconic Tetrimino shapes. Tetris Quake is the strategy game where players’ stacking skills and nerves are tested to their limits, while the card game Tetris Speed lets players prove they’ve got the quickest reactions. Tetris fans can also put their grey matter to the test by trying to re-build a 3D 16-piece Tetrimino puzzle.

With 43 quintillion combinations and its unique turning and twisting action, the Rubik’s Cube has boggled minds since the 80s. Fans of the world’s most perplexing puzzle can take on a new challenge with the Rubik’s Edge. The 3x3x1 Cube is a single layer puzzle with nine cubes in a square, but it’s harder than it looks. Fans of the classic 3x3 Cube will enjoy Rubik’s Blocks, a version of the classic which can be twisted and turned in the same way as a 3x3. In Rubik’s Orbit players must solve all six sides of the 360 rings to have matching colours all the way around. Rubik’s Cage is a fun and strategic game of Tic Tac Toe for up to four players. It may seem easy to get three in a row, but players can twist and turn the cube to re-shuffle the game and deter their opponent. And in Rubik’s Match, players race to build the pattern on the challenge cards, using their own set of Cubie Cards. The first person to complete the pattern wins the round.

Finally, The Strictly Come Dancing range has been extended with a fun family card game inspired by the hit show, as well as a new Glitter Ball Challenge game.

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Rollplay 07986 971 902 www.rollplay.net Stand G115 For 20 years, Rollplay has been a manufacturer of e-vehicles for children and a licensee of well-known car brands such as Porsche, BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes and Audi. The development of the company’s products sees high quality standards and innovation combined with realistic designs and a fun driving experience. The European distribution center, based in Nuremberg, Germany, distributes over 50 products from the lines Toddler & Pre-School, Battery-Powered Vehicles and High Performance, including OEM products and original designs for children between the ages of 2-12.

Rollplay will be showcasing a number of engaging brands during the London Toy Fair. Highlights include the award-winning Nighthawk, new and refreshed licensed vehicles from the BMW and VW range, as well as new vehicles in the high performance and electric ride-on categories set to be revealed at the show.

The Nighthawk is a sit, slide and glide ride for preteens. With its leading-edge design creating a new sub-segment of ride-on toys, kids can glide through curves and feel the sensational control of the Rollplay Nighthawk as they learn how to master the unique riding action. Riders steer the Nighthawk by leaning into the curve, while gas and brake pedals allow variable speed control. Handlebars placed either side of the seat protect hands and offer complete control, plus there’s a rear flag for safety.

With a 2-metre turning radius, Nighthawk runs at a max speed of 12 km/h for kids aged six years and over. The 12V battery is quickly rechargeable overnight and has a run time of approximately 60 minutes. The Nighthawk is available in both white and red.

The BMW 8 Series will also be showcased at the fair, with a street version, M850i, and the racing version, M8 GTE. The BMW range is known for its luxury and performance and is a popular vehicle brand amongst consumers. The 8 series is BMW’s top-of-the-line, flagship car, and the new ride-on replicates the reallife car with horn sounds, two opening doors, a light-up dashboard and working headlights. An MP3 player also lets kids to listen to music while they drive, allowing them to feel just like a grown-up. The ride-on is suitable for ages 3-8 and reaches speeds of around 3MPH in both forward and reverse. The 12 Volt battery is also quickly rechargeable, and the dashboard houses a battery life indicator to show when it needs charging; once charged, the car has a run time of around one hour.

Rollplay will also be introducing the VW range, with a refresh to both the iconic Bus and the Beetle models. The 6V Volkswagen Bus is a battery powered ride-on, with realistic features including front doors that open and latch shut, working headlights, and horn and engine sounds. Launching in the summer, the bus will feature a new Flower Power design to mark the 50th anniversary of Woodstock festival. The colourful flower stickers can be stuck onto the car - and easily removed - so that children can customise their own vehicle. The 6 Volt VW Bus reaches speeds of 2.5MPH and operates in both forward and reverse; its heavy-duty rubber traction strip also makes the trip safer and smoother. The Bus is suitable for children from the age of three and over.

The 6V Volkswagen Beetle is a battery-powered ride-on that looks just like the real thing, right down to the silver VW emblems and highbacked contour seat. Kids will enjoy driving around in this replica model, which is packed with features that can be found on the lifesize car including working headlights, a horn and engine sounds, plus a door that opens and latches shut. Similar to the VW Bus, the Beetle will also feature the new Flower Power design with stickers to help create different looks and patterns. As well as the Flower Power Beetle which is available in pink, Rollplay will also showcase a Beetle racing car in black with yellow headlights. Both 6 Volt VW Beetles can reach speeds of up to 2.5MPH, and are suitable for children aged three years and over.

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Vivid Toy Group 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Stand B70 Vivid is tapping into the squishies trend further in 2019 with the launch of Splishies, a soft range of animals with squishy insides. Available in two sizes, Splishies and the larger Super Splishies, there are seven different characters for kids to collect. Shaking and squishing them lets kids see the glitter and charms swirl inside their bellies. Supported by an integrated TV, PR and digital campaign from launch, Series 1 launches early this year with further range intros planned throughout the year. A range of low RRPs will maximise year-round sales from impulse and pocket money purchases.

A new arrival under the successful Animagic interactive plush brand, the My First Puppy collectible range features four pups looking for a new home. Kids can unwrap each to reveal a little surprise puppy complete with nine hidden accessories. The puppies are contained within a dog carrier which doubles as a cosy basket.

Featuring soft, slow rise foam, cuddly Squeezamals will introduce Wave 2 characters in early 2019.

Collectible and sweet-smelling new clip-ons, as well as Medium and Large versions, will launch from early 2019 alongside a new Squeezamals Dessert themed range. This range includes clip-on and medium sized cupcakes, ice creams and doughnuts, plus more treat-style versions of the hit squishy range.

Introduced in 2018, sequinned Shimmeez will launch Wave 2 in 2019, with clip-on, 8” and 14”versions of the transforming, customisable plush available. New characters in the range will include elephant, sloth and unicorn.

This year sees the introduction of new Harry Potter Character Collectibles, with 36 to collect including a limited edition golden Harry Potter and furry Hedwig, single-figure blind bags, sevenfigure blister packs and a mixture of common and rare characters to collect.

Encouraging STEM learning via educational and fun science kits for children aged eight and over, and with a range of accessible price points and introductory sets for ages four plus, Science4You is an ideal range to encourage children to discover the world around them. 2019 will see the introduction of Yucky Science, Manicure Factory, Bath Bombs and Science of Crystals, each packed with multiple experiments to challenge even the most budding scientist.

Autumn/winter 2019 will see Crayola launch two brand new play sets into its Washimals range.

With the Vet Clinic Playset and Beauty Salon Playsets, kids can play with their Washimals pets at home or on the go. Using the included Crayola markers, kids can bring their Washimals to life with their own designs before cleaning them off to play again.

Launching in July, Gator Golf is a fun golfing game for children. Kids use the flamingo-shaped putter to putt the coloured balls into the gators mouth and watch as it returns the balls. Each ball kids putt scores one point, and the first player to score four points will win the game.

Boomtrix is the new extreme marble track system consisting of towers, trampolines, stunts and a goal. Kids can use their imagination to create the craziest track set-ups they can imagine, using all the components provided, plus they can design a different track every time and share it online. Three different starter sets will be available from July, as well as trampoline packs.

Having recently been appointed as lead toy in the UK for Ryan’s World, Vivid will be launching a toy range inspired by the successful YouTuber early this year. Already a hit in the US, the Ryan’s World range will include blind bags, squishies, plush, action figures and more. With a variety of content on his channel Ryan Toys Review, including toy reviews, animation and family vlogs, seven year old Ryan has created fun, engaging characters which have their own videos such as Gus the Gummy Gator and Combo Panda. These and other characters, including Ryan’s Super Hero alter ego the Red Titan and Peck the Penguin, will also be featured within the toy line up.

The award-winning Phlat Ball and recently introduced extension to the successful inflatable Wubble line, Super Wubble, will continue to feature as focus items for spring/summer within Vivid’s outdoor range.

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Cobi 07796 175 764 www.cobi.pl Stand B22 For 2019, Cobi will focus primarily on the development of its Historical Collection which is dedicated to World War II. To mark the 75th anniversary of Operation Overlord and the landing of Allied forces in Normandy (D-Day), Cobi will feature a variety of new models. These new models include the LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle and Personnel) Higgins Boat, a Sherman Firefly tank, transport Douglas C-47 Dakota transport aircraft (Skytrain) and many others.

Continuing in 2019 will be Cobi’s licensed series World of Warships. In 2018, Cobi released popular ships including the Bismarck and Tirpitz, as well as British battleship HMS Warspite, which is more than 60cm in length. These huge models are 1:300 scale and consist of well over 1,000 Cobi blocks.

World of Tanks is one of the most significant and most developed Cobi licences to date. Cobi meticulously recreates some of the most popular tanks from the game, which is played by millions of people across the globe. These sets are popular not only with the gaming community but also with collectors of military tanks and armored vehicles.

For younger fans, this year will welcome licensed models based on the animated TV series Super Wings. The collection will include over a dozen different designs depicting characters such as Jett, Dizzy, Donnie, Jerome and others. These new sets will come in simple designs for the beginner builder or slightly more difficult sets of nearly 200 blocks, while advanced sets with over 300 blocks, like Jett's Station or the World Airport, which boast over 500 pieces, offer the ultimate challenge.

Sports car fans will enjoy Cobi’s latest collection of licensed Italian luxury cars from Maserati. These new models will be released in 1:35 scale. Thanks to specially created body parts, fans will find it hard to believe that these cars are built with construction blocks. In addition, pad prints will be utilised on the blocks to create a vehicle that even the most demanding collector will appreciate. Rubber tires, movable wheels and durable construction will ensure that kids can have fun with them as well.

The new series of licensed Skoda automobiles consists of models such as the Skoda Fabia, 2019 Skoda Fabia Combi, 2019 Kodiaq Skoda, Skoda Kodiaq RS and Skoda Fabia R5. These construction blocks cars from Cobi are designed in classic 1:35 scale.

Continuing for 2019 is Cobi’s licensed Smithsonian collection, which includes models that have played an important role in the history of mankind such as the Apollo 11 Lunar Module, the Space Shuttle Discovery, the Pilgrim ship Mayflower and others. The company’s officially licensed passenger aircraft from Boeing continues, while a new Boeing Space Capsule CST-100 Starliner will make its debut.

K’Nex UK (Basic Fun) 01189 253 270 www.knex.co.uk Stand 510 US-based toy company Basic Fun is building on last year’s London Toy Fair success with even more additions to the Basic Fun portfolio including K’Nex and Cutetitos, as well as unveiling a new collectible, Little Lucky Lunchbox, at the show.

Basic Fun will showcase the new 2019 K’Nex ranges with a focus on new colours, innovative parts, motors, action play features and more impactful on-shelf pack designs. The Kid K’Nex range of preschool building sets sees the launch of the new Dino Dudes Building Set, which inspires young dinosaur fans to build with easy-to-assemble parts and engaging movements.

The new Beginner 40 Model Building Set features a new K’Nex connector piece which simplifies building in 3D, making this item ideal for builders five years of age and older. New designs in the classic range include a Motorbike, Jeep Wrangler and working Construction Crane.

New motor designs bring added play value to the Tabletop Thrills Amusement Park; powering three rides at once, the motor delivers a full theme park experience. The Dragon Quest Roller Coaster Building Set features a moving dragon battling to catch the coaster car as it loops around the castlethemed ride.

Finishing off the construction portfolio, the new Bendy and The Ink Machine and Exploding Kitten ranges cater for collectors of the hottest new licences with impulse offerings up to play sets.

Basic Fun’s Cutetitos are collectible stuffed animals wrapped and hidden in burrito blankets for kids to unroll and discover. Based on the current trend of pets rolled up in blankets like burritos, kids can collect all 12 different Cutetitos and make their own pet burritos, including some super rare ones. Each one comes with its own burrito blanket and Pet Collector card, and comes in a large blind bag which, when opened, reveals which one is concealed inside. It could be a Slothito, Puppito, Bunnito, Monkito or others. More fun surprises include finding the Cutetitos’ personality Hot Spot (mild, medium, hot or super spicy), their birthday and favourite ‘quotito’.

The Little Lucky Lunchbox range will satisfy any collectible appetite. Each Little Lucky Lunchbox contains two Foodie Friends that hold a secret inside. A Little Foodie Friend or Sticker is the secret ingredient that brings the Little Lucky Lunchboxes to life. Kids can mix, match and trade their Foodie Friends to create the cutest menu around. Each Little Lucky Lunchbox includes two Foodie Friends, one Little Foodie, one Sticker and one Collector Guide.

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Hasbro 0208 569 1234 www.hasbro.co.uk Gallery Suites For 2019, Hasbro will be showcasing the latest selection of products across its portfolio of brands, including Nerf, Hasbro Gaming, Play-Doh and Transformers.

Players aged eight and over can load and fire quickly with Nerf N-Strike Elite Rukkus ICS8 blaster. This blaster features an eight-dart clip that automatically indexes to the next dart.

The clip stays attached to the blaster, making it fast and easy to reload, so that players can insert more darts without removing the clip. With less time needed to reload, there’s more time to play. The blaster includes eight Elite darts designed for distance travel.

Habsro Gaming continues to bring fun and innovation to the gaming market in 2019. In the Monopoly Cash Grab game, players face a mad dash to get the cash. To play, users load the Monopoly Money into the Money Blaster (aka: the Bank) and spin the spinner to blast cash and Chance cards into the air. Players then rush to grab as much cash as they can to win the game. Collecting Chance cards to adds an element of strategy to the game, such as swapping money stacks with another player, taking half of any other player’s money stack, or making all the players pass their money stack to the left. Once the blaster is empty, the player with the most cash wins.

The hilarious Toilet Trouble game is back, but this time two players will take the plunge. Toilet Trouble Flushdown sees players go head-to-head in a fast-paced race to avoid the spray. Players must race to spin their rolls of toilet paper the fastest to avoid getting sprayed by the plastic throne. The player who causes the toilet to spray their opponent with a splash of water wins.

In the Connect 4 Shots game, players engage in a rapid-fire race to get four shots in a row. A fast-paced twist on the classic Connect 4 game, players bounce the lightweight, colourful balls off the table and into the grid. The first person to get four of their chosen colour in a row wins. When the game is over, users can fold the grid into a handy storage, ready for the next competition.

Aspiring bakers can let their imagination go wild with the new Kitchen Creations Sprinkle Cookie Surprise Play Food Set. Pre-schoolers can use this Play-Doh cookie set to create and decorate with sprinkles made of different charm shapes. From classic circles and stars to cookies with silly emoji faces, users can make pretend cookies in over 15 different ways with the cookie cutters, rolling stamper and moulds.

Hasbro will also be showcasing its new collectible segment, Transformers BotBots. This new collectible range offers an engaging back story for Transformers fans; not long ago, a flowing mist of Energon came down from the sky and covered a shopping mall, causing the objects inside to be brought to life as little Transformers robots.

These bots can hide in plain sight as everyday objects, meaning no one knows what's a bot and what's not. Mischievous, funny and silly, these BotBots characters are little figures with big personalities. Collectors of the 1” toys will discover that they change from totally normal objects to adventurous little robots in 3-5 easy steps.

Transformers BotBots Series 1 features 61 characters across three assortments.

Swag Distribution 01213 891 092 www.swagdistribution.co.uk Stand GH01 New to the UK market this year from Swag Distribution is Pindaloo, the company’s latest craze-driven skill toy. Launching at Toy Fair, this innovative toy combines basic components with simple active movement to create an addictive and challenging toy. Kids can begin by mastering the basic movement of looping the ball around the Pindaloo before progressing to harder tricks, or work on developing their own. Pindaloo can be used to improve concentration and hand-eye coordination, and to strengthen focus. A library of tricks can be found on YouTube, while the dedicated Pindaloo website (www.mypindaloo.co.uk) provides inspiration and challenges. Fun for all of the family, Pindaloo can be taken to the park, to school and on holiday for hours of entertainment. With an attractive price point, it provides great value either as a gift or bought with pocket money. Pindaloo also encourages children to spend more time being active and playing outdoors.

Swag will also be showcasing more innovation from its popular PopSockets brand. This year, the company will be launching the new multi-pack PopMinis. Available in a range of engaging and colourful designs, PopMinis are collectible phone accessories for kids. Spring/ summer 2019 will see the PopSockets range expand with the introduction of the second generation PopGrip featuring swappable tops, which allows kids and adults alike to easily swap their PopTop designs. Original PopGrips and PopMinis attach to most smartphones and tablets, making devices easier to grip, and can also be used as a phone stand to make watching videos and taking selfies much easier. At Toy Fair, Swag will also be presenting the latest licensed PopGrips designs, which in 2018 included big names such as Marvel, DC, Disney, Star Wars, Fantastic Beasts, Harry Potter, Minecraft and Stranger Things.

Both Pindaloo and PopSockets are available to buy from Swag’s retailer-friendly B2B website, with next day delivery available and top class after-sales service.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the team at Toy Fair to find out more about Swag’s brands and exclusive Toy Fair offers, and to discuss how Swag Distribution can supply and support their business.

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Big names

for Little Helpers!

NEW

See us at: Hong Kong Toy Fair: Mon 7th Jan - Thurs 10th Jan (Booth 1A–F32).

UK Toy Fair: Tues 22nd Jan - Thurs 24th Jan (Stand E30).

Nurnberg Toy Fair: Weds 30th Jan - Sun 3rd Feb (Hall 12, Stand C-04).

Spring Fair: Sun 3rd Feb - Thurs 7th Feb (Hall 5, Stand 5L76).

New York Toy Fair: Sat 16th Feb - Tues 19th Feb (Booth 6062).

ASTRA: Mon 10th June - Weds 12th June (Booth 223).

Real life toys for fun & play Casdon Ltd., Cornford Road, Blackpool, Lancs FY4 4QW Tel: +44 (0)1253 766411 Fax: +44 (0)1253 691486 Email: toys@casdon.co.uk www.casdon.com

Toy Fair 2019

Skip Hop 07920 798401 www.skiphop.com Stand F66 Babies can experience a wonderland of bright colours and vibrant sounds with Skip Hop’s new Tropical Paradise Collection, which contains three key pieces that fit in with the Must-Haves Made Better products already available from the company.

The Tropical Paradise Activity Gym features bold colours, friendly rainforest animals and a crinkly leaf, together with the choice of two sounds and an over-sized removable plush sloth soother for cuddling. Parents can stimulate little one’s senses further with the Tropical Paradise Toucan Maraca. Just the right size for little hands, this lively rattle will help strengthen baby’s sensory and gross motor skills. The Tropical Paradise Leopard Jitter toy is an ideal accessory for when baby is playing on their activity gym, and can also be taken out and about by clipping it to a pushchair.

Featuring vibrant colours and textures, the leopard on this leaf-shaped teether will vibrate when pulled to help encourage cause and effect play.

Parents can help their little ones get into a day and night time routine with Skip Hop’s new Sleep Trainer. Children will grow to understand that the Sleep Trainer changes colour depending on the time of day, to help them get into a routine. When it’s time to sleep the trainer has a warming red glow, and when it’s time to get up it turns a cheerful green. Plus, for children who are eager to get out of bed, it also gradually turns yellow 10-minutes before wake-up time to let them know its nearly time to get up. For older children, there is also a musical alarm clock.

New to Skip Hop’s renowned Zoo Collection for 2019 is the Zoo 3-in-1 Ride-On Toy. Designed to grow with babies and encourage development of gross motor skills, these rideable characters are perfect for getting children on the move and encouraging balance and coordination. Designed for indoor use, the toy has three ways to play: walk, ride and scoot. As toddlers grow, it converts from a ride-on to a scooter and features a storage compartment that flips over to convert to a seat. For even more fun, children can press the button on the front for lights music and sound effects. The new Zoo Rid- On Toy is available in three signature zoo characters: Unicorn, Dog and Fox. A long-awaited addition to Skip Hop’s popular Zoo Collection is the Plush Zoo range. Now children can take home their own favourite zoo character to cuddle in bed or take with them on their adventures. These soft 8” plush toys are available in six signature zoo characters - Dog, Butterfly, Dino, Fox, Monkey and Unicorn.

Trends UK 01295 768 078 www.trendsuk.co.uk Stand H42 Peppa Pig celebrates her 15th anniversary in 2019 with a raft of new TV content, a cinema event, live shows and plenty more for her fans to enjoy. The best-selling, multi award-winning and 5-star rated Count with Peppa is the star of the Trends ELAs range, enabling children to have fun with 10 colourful play coins as they learn about numbers and colours.

The Mr Tumble Learning Pad is an ideal toy for any fan of the Something Special programme, combining colour, letter and number recognition as well as musical instruments, while Learn with Thomas Alphaphonics is an easy-to-handle toy featuring seven different play modes.

As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of science toys, Trends celebrated gold awards from MadeForMums and Creative Play for the Science Mad Chemistry Set. New kits join the range in 2019; the Science Mad Build Your Own Robotic Vacuum Cleaner includes 75 pieces so kids can build a working model that can sense walls and obstacles, complete with a floating suction indicator and dust collection chamber. The Science Mad Circuit Lab features over 50 experiments to teach kids about electricity, electrical components and circuits, while an interactive Science Mad Pop Globe features AR technology, and is supported by an app that scans the geo-political globe to reveal fascinating facts and pictures.

Trends UK is also refreshing their popular science toy range as Discovery Adventures with a new look and packaging designed to appeal to adventure-seekers.

The new SpyX Drone Strike will put would-be agents through aerial spy training. The mission is to defend and protect against enemy drone reconnaissance. Players must blast the self-flying drone with foam darts to eliminate the threat. The drone has a crash resistant frame, so kids can practise their aim with the foam darts again and again.

Velcro Brand Blocks is a play system for pre-schoolers. The lightweight, soft foam blocks attach together with clever Velcro Brand Fasteners, allowing for infinite creativity. Because the special hook and fasteners are in one piece, the blocks connect easily and are forgiving for little hands. The hero item Velcro Brand Blocks T-Rex is a 33-piece set which can be used to create an impressive dinosaur with movable arms and legs, while the Jumbo Robot lets kids builds an industrial style-robot with hands that really grip.

The award-winning no-mess Paint Sticks range is being expanded with the new Paint Sticks Art Station. Ideal for creativity on the go, the fold-up, double-sided easel has both a whiteboard and chalkboard side. With six classic Paint Sticks and Chalk Sticks, plus a paper and duster included, the station is ready for art action straight out of the box.

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New Fun for Everyo ne!

...a nd of cou rse som e cla ssi c fun !

VISIT US AT OLYMPIA on STAND F10

For more information please contact us: T 03334 050120 E sales@ugames.uk.com Lorem ipsum www.university-games.co.uk

Toy Fair 2019

Interplay 01628 488 944 www.interplayuk.com Stand G10 The My Fairy Garden brand is performing well for Interplay, celebrating a global double-figure million-pound value and the growth of distribution and listings in the UK. For 2019, Interplay is introducing new products into the best-selling My Fairy Garden range. The evergreen brand will be supported by an enhanced marketing programme designed to build awareness, loyalty and depth of purchase, with TV advertising, year-long PR activity and a strong retail presence.

The new Fairy Kitchen Garden is the first fairy home with pea shoots kids can grow, harvest and eat. Featuring a beautiful fairy, complete with a cottage and picket fence, the windowsill set takes children on the journey of food from seed to delicious home-grown greens. For autumn/winter, Interplay is introducing the Fairy Nature Garden. Designed to supports children’s learning about nature, the fairy plant pot house comes with two fairies, a frog, a butterfly, two ladybirds, a bug house, a water butt and a wind spinner. In addition, My Fairy Garden welcomes the Dragons’ Tower Garden set. Featuring a magical castle, home to a mother and baby dragon as well as a fairy, the set allows kids to grow pea shoots and mustard seeds in three different growing areas.

Utilising its extensive expertise in the field, Interplay has created the new Face Paintoos range. With its advanced temporary face tattoo technology, Face Paintoos transforms face painting into a fun and easy activity for children and parents.

With Face Paintoos, it is simple to achieve perfect, long- lasting results every time; enjoyable and quick, everyone can apply and remove the face tattoos with ease. The range is launching with four different sets; the Wild Pack, Pet Pack and Pretty Pack will all be available at under £10, while a bigger Party Pack is available for under £20. The range will be launched with an extensive PR and social media programme, as well as digital marketing campaigns, which will promote its play values and benefits to parents and carers.

FabLab is all about learning, experimenting and having fun with style. Designed for children and created with top quality ingredients that are fully tested, the FabLab range reflects Interplays wholesome values, combined with new, fresh and innovative launches. With an all-year performance, which continues to grow significantly year on year, FabLab is a popular, longstanding brand.

Interplay is introducing the new Tie Dye Luxury Kit with seven fashionable colours. Tie Dye is the hottest new look coming off the catwalks, and with the FabLab Tie Dye Luxury set kids can experiment with the creation of their own fashion masterpieces on clothes, hats, bags and shoes. Supported by influencer activity, a YouTube channel, TV sponsorships, PR and brand ambassador campaigns, plus social media activity, FabLab is set for a busy 2019 securing followers, excitement and sellthrough for the brand.

The multi-award winning Fuzzikins sets are ideal for creative kids. With positive blogger, social media and customer reviews, Fuzzikins are cute fuzzy animals to colour and play. The craft sets offer kids hours of fun customising the Fuzzikins and their world. When they are washed, they can be coloured again to create a whole new look.

Fuzzikins is a rapidly growing brand. With over 100% brand increase in 2018 alone, Interplay has new launches with new animals for 2019, introducing everyday low price point items and higher-priced play set items that will offer a play experience for all occasions. Fuzzi Babies will launch for spring/summer. A collectible range of little Fuzzi baby animals with a bed, a cuddly teddy and three pens for decorating, Fuzzi Babies will be available at a pocketmoney price point.

A Fuzzi Street range featuring cardboard shops with cute animal characters and accessories will also launch, which kids can customise with the included pens and stickers, while the bigger Fuzzi School Pop-up Playset comes complete with six Fuzzi babies and a wise owl teacher. The new Fuzzikins launches will be supported with digital marketing, TV, PR and social media activity, plus a press event, to build awareness throughout the year.

Designed by experts, the award-winning My Living World range enables kids to study animals, insects and flora in close-up detail, supporting STEM learning and exploration of the natural world. My Living World will be promoted in 2019 with pro-active PR and digital activities to increase consumer brand awareness and appeal. A YouTube Channel featuring teacher testimonials, product reviews, unboxing and tutorials is also in the pipeline.

CraftBox Make Your Own Charm Jewellery is a quality craft range which allows kids to create over 10 pieces of beautiful silver, gold and enamelled jewellery. A successful brand with a proven sales record and 5-star customer reviews, Interplay is supporting the range with PR, social media and YouTube activity. Interplay is also introducing a new games range into its portfolio from July. Featuring children’s, family and travel games, the entertaining games range will launch with UK versions of best-selling Playmonster games such as 5 Second Rule and 5 Second Rule Junior, Relative Insanity, Nasty Things, Brain Fart and many more. Showcased at Toy Fair, the autumn/winter launch will be supported by TV advertising, marketing, PR and social media campaigns that will reach multiple touch points and audiences.

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Toy Fair 2019

Jazwares 020 3598 5119 www.jazwares.com Stand B100 Jazwares is preparing to unveil several new product lines as well as extensions to its most popular brands at London Toy Fair.

Following the launch of the hugely anticipated Fortnite toys range in December 2018, Jazwares will reveal new developments throughout the year which include true-to-game figures, Domez, loot chests, building sets, plush and game-replica weapons, all supported by a multi-channel marketing campaign.

Further refreshes and new themes for Roblox, the largest social platform for play, will include all new characters, vehicles and play sets.

Fingerlings will enjoy further expansion with new characters and innovative tech features to refresh the successful line. Untamed by Fingerlings, a Dream Toys 2018 winner, will benefit from refreshes with the introduction of new creatures and play sets. The company will also be unveiling a mustsee extension to the brand as well as the imaginative collectible line Untamed Mad Lab Minis. WowWee also has an array of innovative new brands including S.W.A.K (Sealed With A Kiss), a collectible lips keyring line complete with KissTech technology and supported by TV advertising.

Toy Fair also sees new extensions to the Feisty Pets brand, including new characters and expressions, with vehicles set to be introduced in autumn 2019.

Jazwares will also be showcasing the new Feisty Pets pocket-money blind collectibles, Mini Misfits, as well as 4” plastic characters while at the show.

New refreshes of the popular Nerf gear range will also be revealed on the stand, including targets, vests and more. A new girls’ collectible comprising a world of tiny houses and characters, each with their own unique storyline and place, will also be launched at the show. Marrying the physical world with the virtual world, the range utilises AR (Augmented Reality) to complement play.

There’s also a new Russ plush launch including Petooties plush collectibles, Li’l Peepers and Me Bears.

New for 2019 is ZtringZ, a rainbow-coloured cat’s cradle-inspired playground craze toy. Supported by a TV and digital marketing campaign, the ZtringZ Academy YouTube channel offers tutorials and 45+ ZtringZ figures to learn and make.

Jazwares will also showcase a new range of Angry Birds toys in time for the premiere of The Angry Birds Movie 2. The new toy line brings the Angry Birds charisma to life with splat balls, blinds, figures, playsets and plush by Russ.

Jazwares’ global licensed toy range for Go Away Unicorn – which airs on the Disney Channel in the UK from January 2019 – will also be featured on the stand, as well as a variety of figure packs and plush toys by Russ.

Re:creation 01189 736 222 www.recreationltd.co.uk Stand E125 Among the new Razor rides on show will be the Drift Rider electric drift cycle, which combines drifting action with moto-inspired cornering. This is joined by the E Punk micro electric bike. This mini electric bike is set for a summer launch, but visitors to the fair can get a first look at this power ride along with new additions to the Razor’s Hovertrax and Crazy Cart lines.

Drone Slayer takes blaster play to new heights. Due for an autumn launch, this property invites children to join the battle against invading evil drones. A series of three blaster product sets will be showcased, each including drones that react explosively on impact with blaster darts.

Immersive content will support this launch in 2019.

Re:creation will launch a collection of character plush based on the YouTube property Larva, enabling the show’s many fans to enjoy Larva adventures at home. With interest in interactive pets showing no signs of abating, 4-Eyed Friendzies are also set to be unleashed on Toy Fair.

This collection of four plush friends respond to their owner’s touch with movement and sound, while their ‘try-me’ packaging will stand out at retail.

Also joining Re:creation’s plush line-up, Floofie Surprise is a collectible range of giggly, wiggly pets. As children pull the Floofie Surprise rainbow powder-puff tail, the character will give a fun reaction. There are 12 to collect, and all offer a ‘try-me’ feature on the blind packaging. The Unicornies bring a new take to the unicorn trend with personalities and accessories that will capture hearts, while the Punkymals are a range of rock’n’roll plush pooches with a passion for music.

Globally-respected in the STEM world, Engino is set for a full UK launch in 2019 with a range of exclusive licensed JCB building sets key in the line-up. Re:creation will also showcase a wide of range of STEM Heroes Engino sets which each come complete with activity booklets packed with further learning and challenges. Also to be launched at Toy Fair, a range of licensed Oxford University Engino sets enables students to get hands on with key scientific concepts such as biochemistry and mechanical engineering.

Aqua Gelz lets children design and make their own squishy characters using gels, and see them magically transform when submerged in a special water solution mixture.

Floof, the lighter-than-air compound, introduces Floof Ice Cream Dreams set. Set for a spring launch, this set includes everything needed for children to mould their own ice creams. Further new introductions will be released in the second half of 2019.

With The Lego Movie 2 on its way, Re:creation’s Lego Lights range welcomes new additions to key lights and torch collections. These join the Classic, DC Super Heroes and Lego Star Wars offerings.

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TOBAR is excited to announce a range of Angry Birds lines that are coming soon.

Due to launch ahead of the movie later this year, we’ll have a fantastic selection of top trending products including putty, squishy toys and more.

Come and find us at

NLOCEATWION London Toy Fair

22-24 January 2019, Stand F50, Olympia, Kensington, London

A World of Fun!

Toy Fair 2019

Geomag 07831 886 997 www.geomagworld.com Stand Gallery 501 Geomagworld SA, a company that aims to develop creativity and learning through its innovative Swiss-made products, will be presenting two new offerings for its Magicube brand - Paw Patrol Character and Vehicles Sets. Partnering Magicube with the No. 1 pre-school licence is a natural fit for the brand, and with the new TV series set to hit screens, Geomag anticipates that its latest range is sure to be a hit with all Paw Patrol Fans.

The award-winning Magicube product line is revolutionising the Junior Construction category by allowing kids to reinterpret the classic cube in a magnetic way. The patented system of magnets allows the cubes to stick together on all six sides. By exploiting these invisible forces, builders of all ages can give free rein to their imagination as they create a variety of constructions. Magicube allows even the youngest children develop their first manual and dexterity skills, enabling solid 3D building through simple and creative play activities.

The Magicube Paw Patrol character contain three cubes, with each side featuring a part of one of the heroic pups. Two SKUs are available; the first featuring Chase, Skye and Rocky, and the second containing Marshall, Zuma and Rubble. Each pack show the pups in different positions and poses, so fans can enjoy mixing and matching them all.

Also available are Paw Patrol Vehicle 5-piece Magicube sets. The three available SKUs feature the vehicles of Skye, Chase and Marshall, and allow kids to build 3D models of each character’s vehicle or badge.

The innovative Magicube playing platform is also complemented by a wide range of products which feed and stimulate imagination. All items across the Magicube range let children experience the most common themes of early childhood and pre-school - animals, fruit, princesses, robots, castles and other constructions – across a wide price range.

Order your stock today!

RRP £6.99

Leaps & Bounds 2019 Show Details London Toy Fair: 22nd – 24th Jan 2019 Grand Hall, Stand E15 Nuremberg Toy Fair: 30th Jan – 3rd Feb 2019 Hall 12, Stand B-03-01 Spring Fair: 3rd – 7th Feb 2019 Hall 5, Stand 36-J37

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You can see us at London Toyfair on stand

Stand G101 and

visit us in Nuremberg at SPIELWARENMESSE 2019

Hall 5, Stand B76

www.dolu.com.tr

For UK sales contact Steve or Ria Richardson 07850779797 • sales@sjr-associates.co.uk

Toy Fair 2019

DGL Group 01162 081 246 www.dgltoys.com Stand G135 DGL is looking forward to exhibiting at London Toy Fair for the second year running, where the team will be meeting with many of its existing and prospective EMEA partners.

Throughout 2018, the company has been focused on introducing DGL Group to the international stage, with the aim of building relationships that will help it replicate the successes of the US into 2019 and the years to follow. To achieve this, DGL has partnered with many key retailers and distribution partners across EMEA to ensure that its products are now visible through various channels across the UK and Europe, as well as South Africa, Israel, India, Singapore and the Middle East.

DGL’s award-winning inflatable plush Inflate-A-Mals and Inflate-A-Heroes are based upon a revolutionary concept designed to give the plush category a facelift. The Inflate-A-Mals range consists of four 1.5ft ride-on animals; a horse, giraffe and cow are available, alongside a completely on-trend unicorn. For those seeking the ultimate plush showstopper, the range also includes 5-foot-tall/long animals such as a bear and unicorn, while a shark and t-rex have joined the range for 2019. The star of the show, however, is the 6-foot-tall giraffe – a real head-turner, this product is perfect for retailers looking to create a serious impact with their in-store theatre displays.

Inflate-A-Mals and Inflate-A-Heroes are machine washable, lightweight and hypoallergenic, and are soft and cuddly like any traditional plush. With the substantial added benefit of being inflatable and deflatable, each plush can be merchandised in a neat, portable box to keep the product clean and tidy while saving precious space on the shelf.

2019 will see DGL’s Inflate-A-Heroes family grow. Joining the range will be 12” and 18” Heroes to complement the existing 30” Heroes, and new characters will be available too. Marvel fans can choose from new Heroes including Groot, Hulk and Antman, alongside fan-favourites such as Spiderman, Captain America and Ironman.

DGL aired its first ever Inflate-A-Mals TV commercial across multiple channels in the UK during 2018. A ground-breaking moment for the company, the advert helped drive sales of its Inflate-A-Mals at key partners such as Argos.

The company has also secured placement across Europe for Hover-1. The leading hoverboard manufacturer in the USA, with 33% market share, also boasts the title of the US’ biggest hoverboard brand. DGL has products listed with both Argos and Amazon, and will announce further retail partners in 2019. In the UK, Argos will be a key player in the growth of this range into 2019, alongside Expert and Media Markt in Germany which are also major partners for this year. Visibility for the Hover-1 brand will also expand to France, Spain and the Nordics in 2019.

Hover-1 is not just a hoverboard company; it also specialises in producing scooters and electric mountain bikes. With a number of new ranges coming to market in 2019, the company is looking forward to growing its share in this particular product area on the international stage as well as in its native US. DGL Group can cater to many different product categories, and intends to showcase this at the fair. A wide range of audio products will be present at the stand; the popular LED cat headphones and plush unicorn headphones will appear along with new additions for 2019.

DGL will also be unveiling other product areas for 2019, which the company will be revealing at its Toy Fair stand.

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If you'd like to see us at London Toy Fair, get in touch with emily@bigpotato.co.uk or to check out all our games head over to bigpotato.com

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Toy Fair 2019

Flair 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Stand E39 Flair/Just Play will once again bring a raft of new ranges to Toy Fair whilst building on key properties with new spring and autumn launches.

Big news for toy fair season is the return of Moshi Monsters. The master toy deal with GP Flair will see the production of a new collectible range based on the Top 5 free-to-play kids’ mobile game, Moshi Monsters Egg Hunt. The range will center on character collectibles, incorporating QR codes that unlock digital gifts worth 100s of game time minutes within the mobile game.

Series 1 features over 40 cute Moshlings to collect, including Ultra Rare and Limited Edition Super Moshlings. Single Pack Moshlings are presented in individually styled surprise eggs that kids can pop open. As with all collectibles, kids will be able to bolster their collections with larger packs. There are 4 Packs, 7 Packs and even 17-piece Monster Packs for the most ardent collectors.

One of the most popular characters in the world of Moshi is the Ultra Rare Moshling, Blingo the Flashy Fox. This fast-talking rapper’s music video has over 4.5m YouTube views, which is why he is the star of the main play set, Blingo’s Party House. This is where Moshlings can take a swing in an egg chair, make a VIP entrance through a trapdoor onto the dance floor, or use the Super Slide to leave in style.

Shopkins Lil’ Secrets combines the successful Shopkins franchise with the proven play pattern of miniature collectibles and secret reveals. New for 2019 will be the Lil’ Secrets Party Pop Ups collection. At the pocket money end will be new Party Themed Secret Lockets, each holding its own tiny world and teeny Shoppie figure.

With the new Shopkins Lil’ Secrets Shop ‘n’ Locks, the party theme continues. Kids can open the pop-up party invitation, find the code and reveal the party within.

Wave 1 will include a Mermaid Day Spa, Princess Hair Salon and Masquerade Party, with more party themes to follow in wave 2.

There’s plenty of development in the pipeline for Pikmi Pops. Pikmi Pops Bubble Drops will be released in February; packaged in a gumball inspired CDU, there are 24 Bubble Drops characters to collect including a limited-edition unicorn. Each contains a squeezable Pikmi Pops plush and surprise message; kids can give them a squeeze and watch them blow a squishy glitter filled bubble.

In April, the core collection’s Season 4 will be released introducing new, freshly baked doughnut-shaped Pikmi plush. These cute DoughMis feature scents like Cinnamon, Chocolate Glaze and Strawberry Jelly. There are over 40 sweet scented DoughMis to collect, with patterns on the doughnut-shaped packs making them even more collectible.

The new PJ Masks Fold N Go Headquarters Mini Playset is a nifty storage case that doubles up as a miniature three-storey HQ play set for the best-selling blind bag collectible figures. The play set features a fur ball catapult, a ladder to access all three levels, a collapsible floor, five accessories and two mini figures, and is the ideal place to store the PJ Masks mini figure collection. The blind bag collectibles will be refreshed for spring with 24 new figures, including four rare and one ultra-rare character.

The Super Moon Adventure themed segment also expands with the new Super Moon Adventure Fortress Playset. Packed with interactive features, hero and villain figures can battle it out in Zero Gravity, but be aware of the crystal trap beneath the mountain which will snap shut when the loser falls in. The play set comes with two articulated figures; Cat Boy in his space outfit, and Luna Girl, who is ready for battle.

In autumn, fans will be able to go on a musical tour with Vampirina and her friends in the Rock N’Jam Touring Van. The van features a Ghoul Glow Roof top stage, transforming sofa, and light and sound effects.

With a strong launch behind it, Flair will extend Just Play’s Spirit Riding Free range with the introduction of engaging new products at key price points. The Mini Horse collectibles will see blind box stables containing one of eight different steeds from the show. An 18cm Classic Sounds & Action Horse assortment is also new. Each has rooted hair that can be groomed and realistic facial features that move and respond to touch, plus realistic horse sounds. Also included are themed accessories to add to the play value.

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Toy Fair 2019

Dolu 07850 779 797 www.dolu.com Stand G101 Dolu has undergone a plethora of changes since inception that reflect the company’s development and evolution, as it aims to stay abreast of the changing marketplace and emerging trends.

Eight years ago there were no pink or purple products in the range, and most items were fully assembled in poly bags - even for export. For 2019, most of the company’s ride-on and outdoor products now come in a sturdy box with product photography on the outside.

Dolu is releasing a raft of on-trend new products for this year, with 15 unicorn-themed offerings set to hit the market including play houses, slides, tractors, trikes, sit’n’rides and play kitchens. These are complemented by a new range of building blocks compatible with other leading construction brands, plus a new Unicorn Rocker. The company will also be offering the same ranges in unisex colours, offering consumers more options to choose from.

Over the last four years Dolu has seen a 40% growth in exports, with a 19% increase noted for the UK in 2018 alone. Feedback also indicates a 90% + sell out rate. To support its growth, Dolu is building a new 55,000 sq. meter purpose built factory - equivalent to five football fields - which will include warehouses and offices plus a 1,000 sq. meter permanent showroom. This should be ready for opening in early 2020.

Alongside quality, service and value, Dolu products offer an attractive proposition compared to Chinese imports without the minimum order quantities and leadtime. All products offer EU quality.

SJR Associates will be presenting the Dolu product portfolio at Olympia for the first time, and is looking forward to welcoming customers both new and existing to the stand. Steve Richardson of SJR has been representing Dolu for the last eight years, and was joined in the business last year by his daughter Ria. Please contact Ria or Steve for further details; to book an appointment at any of the shows please either call the number provided, or email sales@sjr-associates.co.uk.

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LeapFrog Toys 01235 555 545 www.leapfrog.com Stand Gallery 500 LeapFrog will be returning to London Toy Fair this year to showcase its biggest toy launch yet. Over 30 new products will be presented at the event, all of which will help LeapFrog continue to build on its previous success in this sector.

The engaging new range will see 10 new LeapFrog Learning Toys released in 2019, with five being released in spring/summer, and another five released for autumn/ winter. The latest additions are expected to help further boost LeapFrog Baby, which is currently a top 3 brand in the Early Electronic Learning subclass (NPD, YTD Jan-Oct ‘18) and is also growing at 15.7% (NPD, YTD Jan-Oct ’18, Early Electronic Learning subclass).

Spring/summer will see the launch of the Butterfly Counting Friend, My First Scout/Violet Book, Peek-a-Boo LapPup (Scout & Violet), Scout’s Learning Lights Remote, and Storytime Buddy/Bella.

Kids can enjoy a flutter of colour with the Butterfly Counting Friend plush learning toy. Five colourful number buttons play a variety of songs to teach colours and numbers, and the butterfly’s light-up wing shows the colours of the rainbow. Butterfly Counting Friend also helps babies to fall asleep with soft, classical melodies. Each segment of this on-the-go toy features a dangling toy that rattles, squeaks, turns or crinkles to help develop fine motor skills. Kids can learn at home or on the go by using the included straps to secure the butterfly to infant carriers and push chairs.

My First Scout/Violet Book will also be released in spring/summer. Every page of the My First Scout/Violet Book offers something new and engaging for kids to learn, while each spread of this touch-and-feel book will delight babies as they explore the shiny pond, crinkly flower, peek-aboo flap and baby-safe mirror. A welcome song and four sing-along songs introduce little ones to numbers, letters, colours and shapes when they press the light-up button on the book. Kids can explore more learning on each page by pressing the soft page tabs to hear phrases and music, and can help Scout find the hidden bone on each of the two-page spreads. This soft book for babies also features a handle, so families can take it everywhere they go.

The portable Peek-a-Boo LapPup offers more than 40 learning activities, introducing babies to numbers, colours and shapes. Pressing Scout/Violet’s name tag will trigger a fun game of peek-a-boo, while opening and closing the LapPup helps kids to learn about opposites. The five crayon keys play colour names and music notes while the shapes and number buttons play shape and colour names. In addition to counting along with Scout/Violet, kids can also press the musical space bar to playing rhyming songs about colours, numbers, shapes and the ABCs. Sliding the mouse will help build motor skills and trigger learning phrases.

Learning is on every channel with Scout’s Learning Lights Remote. Kids can explore all 17 buttons on the learning remote to hear more than 100 phrases, sounds and music while building fine motor skills. Flipping between modes will offer role-play entertainment or learning activities that introduce numbers and letters, while fun pretend channels inspire imaginative play. The French channel lets kids hear common French phrases, or they can listen and dance along to three different music styles on the music channel.

Finally, the weather channel plays rain, snow and wind sound effects.

Parents and guardians can encourage a love of reading with the plush Storytime Buddy. Kids can choose from five books about Buddy and his friends Bella, Cooper, Mona and Pepper, and listen as Buddy reads each one. Beginner readers can follow along while learning about emotions, shapes, numbers, colours and opposites. Kids can also interact with Buddy by answering reading comprehension questions and singing along to learning songs. When it's time for bed, kids can snuggle up and drift off to sleep as Buddy quietly reads bedtime stories or plays Brahms' Lullaby, while his tag becomes a colour-changing nightlight. This product is also available as Storytime Bella.

As well as these new products being added to the LeapFrog Learning Toys range, two new role-play toys will be released in autumn/winter, a brand new innovation to LeapStart will be unveiled, and a unique handheld device that builds on crazes from gaming and the playground, whilst also incorporating learning, is also set for launch.

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A brand new year, a brand new look.

Visit us at Toy Fair, Nuremberg and Spring Fair to ďŹ nd out more.

+44 (0) 1268 567317

sales@poshpawsinternational.co.uk

Gloucester House Basildon Essex SS14 3BX UK

Toy Fair 2019

Spin Master 01628 535 000 www.spinmastertoys.co.uk Stand E131 Launched on Boxing Day, Spin Master’s latest fashion inspired collectible line brings innovation to the girls’ market.

The new Off the Hook doll range features fun fashions and styles so young fashionistas can play dress up with their ‘Best Fashion Friends’. Children can mix and match styles, snap together outfits and discover surprise accessories with the new Style Girl, Style BFF and Style Studio, all with customisation options. The extensive marketing and PR launch campaign saw Off the Hook offered to the kids of some of the top parenting influencers in the UK, and was supported by a Boxing Day Instagram campaign to mark its in-store debut. A heavyweight marketing campaign for spring includes TV advertising and fashion-themed influencer endorsement kicking off in time for London Fashion Week in February.

Hatchimals Colleggtibles Season 5, Mermal Magic, launches in February. The line includes new sea shell eggs, more character detailing and a variety of water transformations. Children can experience the underwater world with the new 1-pack, 2-pack and 4-pack as well as the 6-pack Seashell carton. Play sets including Flower Shower and Water Slide include real water features, while the Coral Castle Playset also complements the collectible range. Autumn/winter will see yet more new introductions from Hatchimals, as Spin Master continues to build on this evergreen brand with fresh thinking that embraces current social trends.

February also sees the release of the third film in the highly successful DreamWorks Dragons franchise, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. Backed by a heavy weight launch campaign, fans can relive all the magic and adventure of the film with Spin Master’s master toy line. Imaginations can soar with the new Dragon and Viking figure sets, as well as Deluxe Dragons featuring lights and sounds plus a special action feature for more interactive play. Toothless, complete with 22” pull-open wings, fire breathing and plasma blast action, also joins the line. Further innovation in the Dragons range will come through for autumn, as Spin Master expands its action-packed offering.

Spin Master’s 10-year global partnership with Monster Jam kicks off this month with the launch of the Monster Jam toy line.

Featuring trucks with the authentic detailing and features of the originals, each vehicle comes with real working wheels so fans can recreate their favourite Monster Jam crashes. From die cast and Rev and Roar vehicles to stunt play sets and Kinetic Dirt Starter and Deluxe sets, the toy line also allows fans to build their very own tracks as well as collect all the vehicles. In addition, the range includes the only RC products that let fans of all ages feel like they are behind the wheel of Monster Jam trucks; Monster Mutt Dalmatian, Megaladon, Grave Digger and more are set to launch in the autumn, alongside other products.

Interactive toys featuring innovative robotics continue to be part of the Spin Master portfolio with a brand-new addition for spring. Lollipets are fun new interactive collectible pets with a big personality and a sweet tooth. Children can make their pet move by showing them their favourite treat. They can speed them up, slow them down, or guide them with the bright colour candy as they hug, chase, skip, scamper and explore. Lollipets come in a 1-pack and a 2-pack.

Having acquired Gund last year, Spin Master is preparing to enter the gift business. Established in 1898, Gund offers plush across categories including Baby, licensed collections featuring Pusheen and Boo, plus core and animated items. Flappy the Elephant, a singing animated plush, will be the hero product in the UK for 2019. With two different play modes, Flappy sings songs as its ears move, providing an interactive and musical experience for kids. Made from high-quality, huggable plush material that is surface-washable, Flappy is suitable from birth.

This spring, popular pre-school property Paw Patrol welcomes a brand-new range of toys. The line includes the TV promoted Paw Patrol Ultimate Rescue Construction Truck. This fully equipped dump truck has all the features kids need to create their own rescue missions with Rubble. It’s also a big year for Paw Patrol content, with new releases set for both spring and autumn promising strong retail opportunities throughout 2019.

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Tel: 01869 363800 sales@ravensburger.com

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Toy Fair 2019

FoCo 01923 851 450 www.foco.com Stand GH13 The name may have changed from Home Win to Forever Collectibles, and now to FoCo, but the company’s dedication to its passionate fans hasn’t wavered since its journey began in 1998. The team has a shared goal – to help people all over the world represent and support their favorite sports teams.

While FoCo has been helping fans show their support for over 20 years, the company is confident that it is only just scratching the surface.

With dozens of major sports and entertainment licences at its disposal, FoCo prides itself on being one of the world’s leading manufacturers of officially licensed fan products. Some of its licences include prominent European football leagues including the Premier League, Scottish Premiership, La Liga and Serie A. FoCo also holds licences for the England, Scotland and Northern Ireland national teams.

With its headquarters based in the US, FoCo has a special relationship with American sports, holding licences for both the National Football League (NFL) and the National Hockey League (NHL). From the world of entertainment, FoCo has licences to produce products for Disney, Warner Bros/DC Comics and more.

For over 20 years, FoCo has served fans of all ages, and the company prides itself on its ability to get products to market at a fast pace. FoCo’s ever-growing product line includes officially licensed products from back-to-school items such as backpacks and stationery to apparel, accessories, textiles, collectibles and novelty items.

FoCo has gained worldwide recognition for its bobbleheads, which span players, managers and mascots throughout sports, plus characters from all over the entertainment world. Each handcrafted bobble offers the top-of-the-line craftsmanship fans have come to expect from the company.

As well as bobbleheads, FoCo fans can also choose from a range of Eekeez Figurines. Each figurine portrays prominent players, club mascots or entertainment characters in an animated, realistic wood carving design. Every Eekeez Figurine is hand painted, stands approximately 4� tall and comes in a window box for ease of display.

In addition to the above, FoCo is featuring Brxlz, a unique construction toy designed for fans of all ages. Launched in 2016, Brxlz allows fans of sports and entertainment to use micro-blocks to build detailed pixelated sets. There are plenty of unique Brxlz sets to choose from, giving fans the ability to build miniature logos, players, mascots, footballs, stadiums, NFL helmets, characters and more.

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The Source Wholesale 01306 646 885 www.thesourcewholesale.co.uk Stand GH32 The Source Wholesale Limited, which is exhibiting in the Green House area, is a relative newcomer to the toy industry. The company nonetheless enjoyed a major breakthrough into the toy channel in 2018, thanks to its combination of educational STEM products, innovative toys and appealing confectionery. The Source has been working hard on several new projects recently, and has also been forging exclusive distribution agreements for several engaging growth product categories.

The Source will be unveiling three new additions to its best-selling STEM product range, sold under the Construct and Create brand. Following the success of Tobbie the interactive AI Robot, which the company says offers ‘more robot for your money’ compared to other robot products, Tobbie 2 will be hitting the market ready for autumn/winter 2019. Tobbie 2 adds a coding element to this already popular robot, with included free software and an insertable chip which takes the learning experience to a whole new level.

Children can take control of the 5x5 LED display screen, pre-programme Tobbie’s movements and control the robot from a smartphone phone using wireless technology. The robot also offers a built-in directional compass and heat sensor and will even play dice with its owner.

The Construct and Create brand welcomes further additions including a mechanically programmable robot and a sound activated hedgehog that rolls on command. Each product comes in kit form, designed to maximise the child’s STEM learning experience.

Waboba, the brand behind the world’s leading water bouncing and high-bounce balls, will also be represented on the stand. In addition to the best-selling Waboba Moon and Waboba Extreme, The Source Wholesale will be unveiling the Wingman, a foldable mini frisbee with precision aerodynamics so it’s incredibly easy to master. The wingman is highly portable, is suitable for indoor and outdoor play, provides hours of endless fun and offers a very affordable impulse purchase. The team at The Source Wholesale invites Toy Fair attendees to take a break from walking the aisles to try out the Wingman at the exhibition.

A licensed range of Jelly Belly products will be launched to the market at the show. Jelly Belly is the No. 1 gourmet Jelly Bean in the world, and fans of the confectionary will enjoy how the official licensed scents and flavours have been used to develop an innovative new range comprising squishy Jelly Belly Stress Toys, Jelly Belly Slime and the Source Wholesale’s new Jelly Belly Slushy Machine, Jelly Belly Slushy Cup and Jelly Belly flavoured Slushy Syrups.

Innovation is a key part of The Source’s formula and this is evident in its specially developed Motion Controlled Toy range, which includes a Drone, UFO, Car and Robot. The motion control technology translates users’ hand gestures into movement and actions, making the products easy to master in just a few minutes. The Turbo Looper Car, a gravity defying, superfast USB-chargeable car, can perform tricks with other cars and complete 360 degree loop-the-loops when placed in the performance sphere, which is included free in every pack.

The Source will also be taking the opportunity to show off its Treat Factory brand, which offers an enticing collection of mouth-watering and on-trend novelty sweets and confectionery related games ranging from Llama Lollies to Chilli Challenges, and Unicorn Pic Nics to miniature Pic N’ Mix stands.

To pre-book appointments for the show please contact Stacy Guest on 01306 646619 or email stacy.guest@thesourcewholesale.co.uk.

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Golden Bear 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com Stand E69 Golden Bear is preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2019, which coincides with the launch of its new toy range for Bing. The company will be showcasing this new collection following its appointment as master toy partner in October. The Bing range will launch in autumn/winter 2019 across UK, Ireland, EMEA and Australia, with visitors to London Toy Fair able to enjoy a sneak peek at the range. The new Bing toy line features super-soft plush with features including speech, lights and sounds across an array of sizes. Figurines, play sets, role-play items, bath toys and wooden peg puzzles will also be available.

Golden Bear’s Bush Baby World collection will be expanding further in 2019. The introduction of the new plastics collection is an engaging new extension to the brand, and is the first time the Bush Babies have been miniaturised. There are 24 new Bush Baby World Mini Collectibles launching in January 2019. Kids can unwrap the 10cm Pod and slide open the leaf door to reveal a mini figurine, two accessories, a bracelet, a surprise jewellery charm and a sticker sheet.

Each figurine comes with funky hair or moving eyes, and children can have fun dressing their character with the themed accessories. The pod can be decorated with stickers before kids then find the perfect spot to hang it up. The charm accessory can be clipped to the bracelet to start building a jewellery collection, and there are also Rare and Ultra-Rare Mini Collectibles to look out for.

Going from strength to strength, Paint-Station is the No. 1 selling no-spill paint kit range from Golden Bear. 2019 sees the range extend into themed sets including a Unicorn set and a Wizard set, while new neon and pearlised colours are also being introduced.

In The Night Garden continues to be a favourite at No. 5 in the pre-school charts. Golden Bear is introducing new plastic lines and new feature plush lines too.

Storytime Igglepiggle features fun stories read by the actual show narrator to help entertain and relax little ones, while the Dancing Igglepiggle soft toy will move and dance in time to music, encouraging young children to watch and join in.

The CBeebies hit show Waffle the Wonder Dog went on air in February 2018 and Golden Bear has seen success with its soft toy Waffle with sounds in the run up to Christmas. For 2019 the range has been further extended, with the new Everybody’s Best Friend Waffle the Wonder Dog joining the roster. This feature plush includes movement, songs and phrases.

Golden Bear has now extended the Hey Duggee toy range to include the new Move and Music Duggee. Duggee’s ears flap and move in time with upbeat music and songs from the show. For added fun there are also flashing lights under Duggee’s iconic badges.

Marvins Magic 01582 849 000 www.marvinsmagic.com Stand H65 Marvin’s Magic is recognised as the brand leader and No.1 for magic worldwide. The company has won many accolades, produces the best-selling magic sets on the market, and boasts the largest following of young magicians anywhere.

Magic is normally based on dexterity, skill and many years of practice, but with Marvin’s Magic budding magicians can perform similar sensational effects in no time. Marvin Berglas, the internationally acclaimed magician and creator of Marvin’s Magic, is passionate about the brand and aims to inspire and encourage the next generation of magicians through excellence in magic. His dedication has been recognised in both the toy and magic industries through numerous awards, and he was recently re-elected as vice president of the Magic Circle.

In addition to all the tricks and props included in Marvin’s Magic’s innovative and fun magic sets, new sets such as the affordable Marvin’s Amazing 300 Magic Tricks will include augmented reality tricks, a mini Marvin which performs tricks in 3D, bonus online content and easy to follow video instructions, making it ideal for young magicians who prefer visual explanations.

Marvin’s Mind Blowing Magic reflects the trends and attitudes of the streetwise magicians of today. This best-selling set enhances the magic even further, and now includes impressive 3D augmented reality magic, video instructions and bonus online tricks. The set is perfect for magicians aged eight and over who are keen to impress their friends.

Catering for all price points and ages, Marvin’s Magic has also created a special edition Deluxe Box of Tricks. This hand-picked selection of Marvin’s favourite professional-quality effects is strictly limited to just 3,000 copies worldwide, and has been released in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Marvin’s Magic.

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Funrise 01908 555 640 www.funrise.com Stand G90

MIDNIGHT

Funrise International will be bringing its largest selection of ranges to London Toy Fair this year with a host of new own IP collections as well as licensed additions to its portfolio.

New for spring is the master toy range for Paramount’s Easter movie launch Wonder Park, and Funrise has created a collection of playsets, figures and plush featuring characters from the movie.

At the heart of the rage are the movie’s Wonder Chimps, which will be available in blind bag collectibles, wind-up and scented plush forms. With over 5,200 cute chimps featured in the film, they’re sure to capture the hearts and imagination of movie fans.

Fart Ninjas, interactive farting Ninjas, is Funrise’s latest development. Kids will love collecting the different characters to create a symphony of fart noises perfect for pranking friends and family, with the motion sensor activated sounds. Included in the initial range will be four smaller collectible figures, as well as a Deluxe Fart Ninja which not only creates noises, but records and plays them back too, for added pranking.

For outdoor fun, Gazillion Bubbles has led the charge in creating premium bubble products for over a decade. With an already extensive array of premium bubble solution, bubble toys and machines, the Gazillion range will be expanding in 2019 with innovative bubble blasters and machines.

The star of the show will be the new Gazillion Bubble Rush machine. With its revolutionary design, this high-powered machine blows the most bubbles ever. The next generation bubble machine has a three-sectioned, no-spill modular design including a removable washable top, solution recycling tray, with batteries and motor sealed inside the base. Children pour solution into the reservoir and push the button for a bubble explosion in seconds. This item was designed to create hours of fun for kids, but is easy to clean for parents.

Herodrive is an innovative, one-of-a-kind collection that combines kids' favourite entertainment characters with fun and original play features to deliver vehicles for pre-schoolers. DC Super Friends launched at the end of 2018 and this year will extend into the world of Marvel.

The mighty trucks from Tonka will also have a large presence on the Funrise stand, with the classic Steel range, innovative Power Movers collection and Tonka Tinys creating a plethora of choices for vehicle play.

Finally, visitors can experience the master toy collection for Rainbow Bunny Unicorn Kitty which has been developed by Funrise to complement the exciting, animated TV series set to air in 2019. With both the toy line and the TV show being created and produced by Funrise, this licensed range will have synergy in all areas.

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Which sea surrounds New Zealand?

What’s bigger: Europe or Africa?

What is above the Arctic Circle?

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Where is Tanzania located?

Answers to all these and many more questions about Earth and its geography can be found on this durable acrylic globe.

Discover the countries and their capitals.

The globe gives you an informative overview of Earth’s surface, right at your fingertips. Country borders and geographical features of the individual landmasses can be intuitively grasped.

Learn about the useful features of the globe such as latitude lines, longitude lines, and timezones. Explore your planet with the Student Desk Globe!

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© 2018 THAMES & KOSMOS, LLC., 301 FRIENDSHIP ST., PROVIDENCE, RI, 02903 USA MANUFACTURER: © FRANCKH-KOSMOS VERLAGS-GMBH & CO. KG, PFIZERSTR. 5-7, 70184 STUTTGART, GERMANY +49 (0) 711 2191-0 www.kosmos.de ® THAMES & KOSMOS IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF THAMES & KOSMOS, LLC. PROTECTED BY LAW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. RIGHT TO TECHNICAL ALTERATIONS RESERVED. CUSTOMER SERVICE NORTH AMERICA: 1-800-587-2872 www.thamesandkosmos.com

Physical

10–Inch Diameter

Physical

with GEOGRAPHY Geopolitical BOUNDARIES

10–Inch Diameter

Durable Acrylic Globe Please read the instruction manual before use and follow all of the instructions. Keep the packaging and instructions as they contain important information.

Durable Acrylic Globe

10–In

Dura Glob

Quick-start instructions Manufactured by

Manufac

673018-01-######

Made in Germany KIN 1618100

No. 673018

Student Desk Globe

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Toy Fair 2019

Sambro 08458 739 380 www.sambro.co.uk Stand Gallery 400 One of the leading names in licensed toys returns to Toy Fair for 2019 with a portfolio of new product launches.

The Let’s Dough range is one of Sambro’s most anticipated launches of the year, and will be showcased for the first time at Toy Fair. Supported by a robust marketing strategy encompassing TV, digital, social and retail activation, the range will launch in multiple territories from June 2019.

First to launch will be hero play sets from the Disney’s The Little Mermaid, which will feature Ariel in her own underwater world. Combining arts & crafts with traditional role-play, each set is uniquely tooled and includes dough tubs, press moulds and a character to re-enact favourite movie scenes with. The Let’s Dough collection also features collectible surprise capsules, with six characters to collect per property. Each capsule contains press moulds, dough and a cutter; ideal for treats or in party bags. As well as various toyetic play sets unlike any seen before from Sambro, the Let’s Dough ranges will also feature Lets Dough Electro characters with an extra special twist.

Sambro’s successful Palz collection will be expanding in 2019. Joining Puzzle Palz & Squishy Palz, which launched in 2018, this year will welcome Giant Puzzle Palz and Gelli Palz, Glitter Palz and Bubble Palz.

Scribble Town, Sambro’s first owned IP, is set to launch in autumn/winter 2019 and will include four core play sets featuring key characters Arty, Dotty, Sketch and Penny. The unique arts and crafts brand aimed at pre-schoolers will be supported by heavy weight TV advertising, including channel sponsorship, animated shorts, digital and social activity and a comprehensive retail programme.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back with Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (RTMNT).

Sambro has a pan-European licensing deal with Nickelodeon and will launch several RTMNT collections across toy, arts & crafts, games, bags and more.

The successful Nickelodeon Slime range will go supersized in 2019 and takes the art of slime making back to basics, giving little scientists more options to create the infamous green gooey slime.

Nickelodeon Slime will be available in single ingredient components so children can get creative with activator, glue, glitter and more to create their own customised blend, while still relying on the quality and safety that Nickelodeon Slime offers.

The hit Nickelodeon series Top Wing is proving popular with pre-schoolers, and Sambro will be one of the licensees to launch a toy collection autumn/winter 2019.

As featured on ITV’s How to Spend it Well at Christmas, Arcade 1Up is back and this year will include two iconic new arcade games. The gaming powerhouse Pac Man will launch as will Galaga in this authentic at-home arcade experience, which features original cabinet art as well as life-sized 17” colour LCD screens with joystick and buttons.

Winning Moves 0207 262 9696 www.winningmoves.co.uk Stand E115 In Lex-Go! players aim to be the first to get rid of all their playing card tiles in the fastest time possible, by creating words, swapping letters and even adding their tiles onto other players’ words. This super-fast, fun and frantic word game is suitable for all the family and is playable anywhere.

Word game fans can get ready for a happily-ever after with Disney Lex-Go! Using special tiles based on their favourite Disney characters adds an element of surprise to the game for players, while using the Disney tile will allow players to get exactly what they need to win. It’s the classic fast and fun word game, only with an added touch of Disney magic.

Also new from Winning Moves, Harry Potter Lex-Go! lets players use the game- changing spell tiles to increase their chances of winning.

Visitors to London Toy Fair can take advantage of Winning Moves’ show offer; 5% off £500 orders and 10% off £1000, plus a free Lex-Go! with every order placed at the show. One-drop delivery; Terms & Conditions apply.

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Wilton Bradley 01626 835 400 www.wiltonbradley.com Stand E89 Wilton Bradley comes to London Toy Fair with a large range of new products for retailers to see and experience, including developments to its Mi-Mic, The X Factor, Monster Smash Ups and Xootz brands.

The company’s focus while developing its new 2019 product ranges has been to evolve products within existing brands at more competitive price points, as well as targeting a younger age group whilst also progressing and growing ranges which have been a success in the current market.

This year is also set to see additional growth to Wilton Bradley’s licensed product collections. These new products will be available to view in Wilton Bradley’s UK showroom and also at the 2019 London Toy Fair in January.

The new Mi-Mic and The X Factor range includes a new Mi-Mic Mini and The X Factor XF1S. Both have the same fun features of the best-selling Mi-Mic range but at a more compact size, so all members of the family can join in the fun. Following on from the success of the XF2 Mi-Mic, with its echo function, voice changer and multi-coloured lights, the XF2 sees the introduction of a brand-new feature; the integrated new phone holder makes the fun of karaoke even easier to enjoy than ever before.

The innovative RC brand Monster Smash-Ups also sees a new range of all-exploding trucks, with two new, smaller models available at lower price points. The Monster Smash-Ups Mini characters Cyborg and Phoenix both have an eye-catching design to match the other characters in the range, but are intended for younger smash and crash enthusiasts.

After the success of the Xootz Viper Go Kart, 2019 brings the release of the Typhoon Power Drift Trike.

This new ride-on evolves the signature and stylish design of the Viper whilst bringing more actionpacked fun to the range. After the success of the Xootz Element electric scooter in 2018, Wilton Bradley is introducing a new electric product to the market as well as two new electric scooter models, Electro and Evader.

With the Great British Sewing Bee television programme due to return to screens in 2019, sewing is set to become popular again amongst younger children. Wilton Bradley’s licensed range for 2019 will offer new and improved high-quality sewing machines, alongside easy-to-follow kits that will encourage and inspire children as they learn to sew.

Finally, Wilton Bradley is preparing for yo-yos to make a resurgence in 2019. As the exclusive distributor for YoYoFactory in the UK, the company’s collection of yo-yos includes something for everyone, for every skill level and for every price point, from beginner yo-yos with LED lights to advanced yo-yos with patented technology.

Visitors to the fair can drop by the stand or make an appointment at Wilton Bradley’s UK showroom by contacting the sales office - sales@wiltonbradley.co.uk.

Thames & Kosmos 01580 212 000 www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk Stand F15 Returning to London Toy Fair for the eighth year, Thames & Kosmos will unveil its strengthened STEM toys and games portfolio.

Thames & Kosmos is adding two new sets to its successful STEM range, Pepper Mint. The sets centre on engineeringand design-led activities that follow the adventures of Pepper Mint, a curious, capable and creative girl. Launching in spring are The Space Adventure and The Secret Island Adventure.

Continuing its growth in the board games sector, Thames & Kosmos will also be showcasing a number of new tabletop titles at London Toy Fair. Featuring original art from Anna Llenas’ best-selling book series of the same name, The Colour Monster is a children’s game based on a confused monster who’s unable to understand his own emotions until he’s helped by his friend, a little girl. The Colour Monster is designed to encourage children to talk about and understand their own feelings. Players must first find different colours representing various feelings such as calm, anger, fear and sadness. As play progresses, they also have to find an object which can hold the feeling they’ve found, before they move on to talk about a time when they experienced that feeling themselves.

After a strong year of sales for the Exit: The Game series, Thames & Kosmos is adding another two adventures to the range: The Catacombs of Horror, which features slightly longer, expanded gameplay, and The Rollercoaster of Horror which features original riddles for beginners. Players must use their team spirit, creativity and powers of deduction to crack codes, solve puzzles, collect objects and earn their freedom bit by bit. With luck, tactics, high-quality playing materials and colourful festive atmospheres, the games are exciting until the very end.

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Imagine toys changed for good.

DuraSense

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Making good choices, for our kids and the future of our planet.

Imagine a green, cost-efficient and versatile material for toys and childcare products. A blend of wood fibres and plastic material, offering a light and flexible solution with the mouldability of plastics, yet the sustainable benefits of wood.

Biocomposites offer the benefit of using less fossil-based material. It is possible to achieve products made out of 98% renewable material, reducing the fossil carbon footprint by up to 80%. Enabling the possibility of making good choices, for our kids and the future of our planet.

Visit us at London Toy Fair 22 - 24 January 2019 You will find us in the Greenhouse Area, stand GH46.

Come visit us for a cup of coffee.

We’ll show you around the biocomposite plant, and tell you more about this gamechanging material.

Demand more. Demand renewable. www.storaenso.com/biocomposites

Toy Fair 2019

IMC Toys 01904 720 908 www.imctoys.com Stand E129 IMC Toys is planning for growth this year, supported by a combination of new product launches, increased retail distribution and a strong portfolio of licensed brands including Disney Frozen and Toy Story toy lines. This year will see new launches across the entire IMC portfolio, which is based on five core pillars; dolls, collectibles, feature plush, games and licences.

IMC’s best-selling doll brand, Cry Babies, are lovable dolls that cry real tears. The brand has enjoyed success since its launch, securing a leading position in the special feature nurturing doll category. This year will see the brand expand with the release of new dolls and the introduction of a fantasy doll range; Cry Baby Dreamy the Unicorn, and Cry Baby Bruny the Dragon.

Cry Babies extended its popularity with the successful launch of Cry Babies Magic Tears. These surprise collectibles, miniature versions of the full-size dolls, come with numerous accessories and are able to cry real tears. The range has been supported with a new animated series available to view on You Tube, Amazon Prime, Ketchup TV and via the dedicated new website (www.magictears.toys).

Furthermore, IMC will be launching a second series of the dolls and a new segment of collectibles, Cry Babies Magic Tears Pets.

Bloopies launched with strong sales, quickly becoming a best-selling bath toy. This year, the brand welcomes Bloopies Mermaids. As well as the standard features, such as squirting water out of their mouths and blowing bubbles, the pattern on their tails will change colour when they are submerged in warm water. IMC will also be launching new Bloopies content in May, with 6x5 webisodes set to showcase the Bloopies’ stories.

For feature plush, the company has revealed plans for new additions to its interactive Club Petz range. Puffy the magical Unicorn, Funny Llama and Snotsy the Festive Reindeer will join the successful launches from autumn/winter 2018, which included Bowie Your Real Kissing Pup, and Mystery Mao.

EasyRead Time Teacher 01684 566 832 www.easyreadtimeteacher.com Stand GH05 This will be EasyRead Time Teacher’s second visit to London Toy Fair. The company makes colourful time-teaching wall clocks, alarm clocks, children’s wristwatches and card games. All the products feature the company’s innovative clock face design, which makes it possible for children age five and over to learn to tell the time in three simple steps – a really easy way to master the clock.

2019 sees the launch of EasyRead Time Teacher’s new retail brand – ‘ertt’.

Since its inception in 2012, EasyRead Time Teacher has made products for two different markets; colourful and fun time-teaching products for families, and more serious educational products for schools. Following the re-brand, the brightly coloured products for families will be manufactured under the new brand name ertt, complete with new packaging designs for attractive display.

EasyRead Time Teacher will be introducing a new range of Waterproof Children’s Time Teacher Wristwatches at Toy Fair. The new watches will still feature the company’s trade mark innovative design and simple teaching method. The waterproof watches have a robust stainless steel body, brightly coloured nylon strap and are guaranteed water resistant to 5 ATM, making them suitable for any type of outdoor activity or water sport.

In addition, the existing EasyRead watch range now has more strap colour variants, including bright pink, bright red and bright blue, making any display box of assorted ertt watches a very colourful affair.

EasyRead’s time teacher wall clocks won several awards in 2018, including a Toy Shop UK Silver Award in the Educational Category and a Right Start Award, plus they now feature in Fundamentally Children’s Good Toy Guide.

EasyRead Time Teacher also supplies schools and educational suppliers with its range of Classroom Wall Clocks, Playground Clocks and classroom Teaching Aids, all designed to help children learn to tell the time.

For small retailers wishing to introduce EasyRead Time Teacher products for the first time, the company offers a Starter Pack comprising five wall clocks, five alarm clocks and a display box of assorted wristwatches.

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Toy Fair 2019

Tomy 01271 336 155 www.tomy.com Stand 520 Tomy UK heads to London Toy Fair 2019 with its strongest ever line-up of toys and games. From the new girls’ brand Ritzy Rollerz, core brands such as Lamaze, Aquadoodle, Britains and Tomy Toomies, through to products for Ricky Zoom – the new CGI action comedy animation show from eOne due to hit screens in 2019 – there’s plenty to discover in the Tomy portfolio for 2019 and beyond.

Following the recent announcement of the new strategic partnership with Drumond Park, Britain’s No.1 games brand, Tomy will be also be showcasing the broad range of kids’, family and adult games that now form part of the Tomy portfolio. Visitors will see extensions to the hugely popular Articulate, Logo and Pop Up Pirate brands, in addition to highly entertaining new games like Puffball, Face It and Sushi Scramble.

Tomy will be showcasing a number of new releases in its nursery and pre-school categories as it prepares to build upon the success of 2018 following a heavyweight TV advertising campaign in the run up to Christmas. Tomy’s nursery and pre-school brands prioritise playtime between parents and children, whilst also creating products that make lives easier for busy parents, making the toys a hit with parents and children alike.

In the nursery space, Lamaze continues to deliver on its promise of “The Right Toy at The Right Time”, creating products that are ideal for every developmental milestone of a child. Featuring rattles, squeakers or crinkle textures, the popular Clip & Go range is being extended to feature entry point price points to appeal to all consumer budgets. The range is further strengthened by the addition of the Toy Story licence.

Tomy Toomies will continue to build on its successful character-led strategy, showcasing new bath and toddler toys that bring to life the range of unique and colourful characters that children will recognise and love. In addition, an innovative new product range – Parade Pals – will be on show. This new line will allow toddlers to learn animal sounds and songs as they mix, match and connect the characters to hear them ‘magically’ harmonise. From low-price single characters to higher-priced combination packs, the line will help develop colour and sound recognition, and hone fine motor skills in toddlers.

The popular pre-school brand Aquadoodle continues to help stimulate hand-eye coordination, motor and thinking skills through no-mess creativity. In 2019, the brand will expand its range with products that follow a child’s development as they approach school age, focusing on specific developmental milestones: fine motor, cognitive, language and social/ emotional.

Turning to vehicles, Europe’s oldest specialist in agricultural toys and collectibles, Britains, looks to maintain its leading position in the farm role-play and replica models sector. New releases for 2019 include a new Slurry Silver Tanker (Fieldside) from manufacturing firm NC Engineering and the newly licensed Fendt 828 Vario Tractor and Vicon FastBale.

For younger children, Johnny Tractor from the John Deere collection encourages pre-schoolers to grow up green with friendly farming characters for children aged 18 months plus.

Hero items include Build-a-Johnny Tractor and Learn and Pop Johnny Tractor, helping little-ones develop their hand-eye coordination, numbers and shapes skills. After a successful TV advertising campaign in late 2018 which delivered over 1,000 TVRs, Johnny Tractor will carry momentum into 2019 with TV support for the brand over the October half-term, a key period in the run up to Christmas.

Ritzy Rollerz, the unique new girls collectible from Tomy, promises to be a real highlight in 2019 with strong retail partnerships and a heavyweight media campaign to drive awareness and engagement with kids aged 4-9. Ritzy Rollerz is a world of fun, customisable characters with an assortment of sparkling, glitzy charms.

In addition, Tomy is delivering innovation in the girl’s space with the launch of Adorbs.

The company aims to establish the brand as an entry-point solution to the world of dress up with a solution that both kids and their parents will love.

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Toy Fair 2019

VTech 01235 546 810 www.vtech.co.uk Stand Gallery 500 The Toot-Toot ranges have helped VTech secure its No. 1 Infant and Toddler postition for another year in 2018 (NPD Jan – Nov 2018), with particular success stemming from the Toot-Toot Friends Kingdom Pirate Ship. Supported with TV advertising, PR and social campaigns, the interactive ship was featured in the Tot Spot category at DreamToys. The Pirate Ship is packed full of features and can open up to reveal two sides of play, so kids can discover the Treasure Island, battle the octopus and find the treasure chest. The new play sets planned for 2019 will come to life with motion and lights when characters are set on the MagicPoint locations.

New Toot-Toot vehicles for spring/summer will now include special press buttons or manipulative features, which will trigger movement or sounds. The new feel will benefit from enhanced body detailing and expressive features, whilst still including all the classic fun features of Toot-Toot Drivers vehicles. New developments in track styling will help drive Toot-Toot forward for the next season, whilst children can conduct their own fun with one of the new introductions planned for this year.

New introductions and developments in the VTech Baby range will further strengthen the company’s position for 2019. Spring/summer will see the launch of a Rock & Ride Unicorn, a concept which sees the ever-popular unicorn offer two ways to play. With a simple change of the base it can be used as a rocking unicorn or as a ride-on, while the motion sensors trigger phrases and melodies for added play value.

Also new for spring/summer are the PetSqueaks by VTech. These pocket-sized first robotic pets have three sensors that interact when one of them is triggered. Kids can pet the Head Sensor or tickle the Tummy Sensor to make their PetSqueaks giggle and respond with sounds, phrases and motion. Holding the PetSqueaks in the palm of a hand will trigger the Bottom Sensor and cause the pet to stand up. The PetSqueaks move and scurry around on flat surfaces, just like a real pet, their cheeks light up with delight as they eat, and they even make funny or embarrassing noises. The PetSqueaks will be TV advertised from January.

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come see what’s

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Book your appointment today to check out all that’s new in baby gear, toys and so much more!

London Toy Fair 22 – 24 January F66

Spielwarenmesse 30 January – 3 February Hall 2 Stand C-08

Spring Fair, NEC 3 – 7 February 5F80-G81 ®

Toy Fair 2019

University Games 03334 050 120 www.university-games.co.uk Stand F10 University Games is pulling out all the stops for London Toy Fair 2019, thanks to the launch of a number of new lines set to add more strength to the company’s existing range. With a host of strong performers already in the lineup, such as Smart Ass, Googly Eyes and Pointless, the business has focused its efforts on diversifying its portfolio, bringing new games to the market which are easy to learn and provide rapid, fun action.

In the interactive game Inch Worms, players spin the spinner and pull the worms one segment at a time until their colour is revealed. Some worms may be long, and some may be short, but they player will never know until they start pulling. If they free a worm, it's theirs to keep. Once the last worm is pulled, the players attach the worms together; the longest worm wins.

In Five Little Fish, payers flip a Lily Pad Card to see which fish to catch before using a Fishing Rod to hook the fish they think will match. If it is a match, they keep the catch. Fishers must pay close attention as the fish change positions remember which one is which. The player who catches the most fish wins.

Squeak and Seek Mice is a fun game for children aged three years and over. The player who finds the most cheese will be crowned the winner, but they must take care not to be caught out by the napping cat.

Señor Pepper is a fast-paced card game which challenges players to grab the correct pepper figure faster than their opponents. To play, all players turn over their cards and display their Señor Pepper’s, then grab the colour pepper that they believe to be correct - red, yellow or green. While it may sound simple, there are catches.

Those with quick hands will enjoy the addictive and high energy game Swipe Out. Players aim to be the first to swipe their chips off the board to match the pattern on the Swipe Out card. Winning the card wins the round, with the first player to collect five Swipe Out cards crowned the winner of the game.

Sort It Out is the game of putting things in order. Players attempt to form a list, and when they think they have the correct order they can turn over the card and learn, for example, if a lion is faster than swordfish.

An extension to the popular drawing game, Googly Eyes Battle Pack now sees two teams go head to head with the vision altering glasses. Six new wacky lenses, and four new categories, provide even more drawing fun.

Tactical PR and influencer campaigns, along with TV advertising and pre-roll on YouTube, will support these new releases, as well as social activity throughout the year.

The Lego Group 01753 495 000 www.lego.com Olympia Room

Continuing to build on the findings of the Lego Play Well Report, which surveyed nearly 13,000 parents and children to understand the state of play today, the Lego Group is inspiring the nation to stay playful in 2019. Starting the year with the anticipated The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, the Lego Group will be revealing a variety of innovative products throughout the year to inspire creativity and imagination for the builders of tomorrow.

A collection of 19 building sets, inspired by The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, offers something for the entire family, from a Lego Duplo set for the youngest of builders to Lego System sets for kids and adults. Fans will be able to recreate the action and adventure of the film with Emmett, Lucy, Lego Batman and Unikitty, who are joined by new characters Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi, Sweet Mayhem and Ice Cream Cone.

Fans can also make their own movie with The Lego Movie 2 Lego Movie Maker. Featuring a movie stage and swivelling camera stand, kids can choose from Apocalypseburg or Systar System as their backdrop, then set up the action with nine characters from the film, plus accessories including Emmet’s Escape Buggy, Rex's buildable Rexplorer, mini Systar Starship and more. Two builtin sliders let kids to move characters around the stage, while three attachment points for the camera stand allow for camera panning and alternative angles.

Kids can patrol the Lego City streets from above with the highly detailed 60210 Sky Police Air Base toy set, featuring threelevel police station control tower with jetpack storage, an office on the ground floor, attached tool storage area, and a jail cell with a bed and breakaway wall. This set, which includes over 500 pieces, allows Lego fans to build a police plane complete with removable nose cone and a hatch underneath for parachute drops, as well as a police motorbike and getaway car. Young builders can load the parachute and the included Sky Police Officer Minifigure into the bottom of the aeroplane, and push the lever to launch him at the escaping crooks.

Lego fans can celebrate an icon of engineering excellence with the Lego Technic 42096 Porsche 911 RSR. This building set includes authentic features like a rear wing with ‘swan neck’ mounts, extended rear diffuser and aerodynamic side mirrors, plus black-spoked rims and realistic head and tail lights. The model includes a detailed cockpit, independent suspension and a six-cylinder boxer engine with moving pistons positioned in front of the rear axle. With over 1,500 pieces that make realistic movement and mechanisms, this set can introduce young Lego builders to the universe of engineering in an approachable and realistic way, or make for an amazing collectible for adult fans of Lego.

The Lego Group is showcasing 2HY products to select media under embargo at Toy Fair 2019, while all 1HY products can now be found on shop.lego.com.

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Toy Fair 2019

TKC Sales 01380 872 950 www.tkcsales.co.uk Stand E99 TKC has been specialising in outdoor and leisure fun since 1989, and looks forward to marking its 30th year with customers both new and old at Toy Fair.

Building on its launch at last year’s fair, TKC will be highlighting the success of Mini Frisbee Disc Golf. An ideal family game, Mini Frisbee Disc Golf is safe, easy to assemble and ideally suited to active indoor and outdoor fun. Mini Frisbee Disc Golf improves hand eye co-ordination and team participation whilst providing a great opportunity to learn the fundamentals of golf. Once assembled, the net can be moved around the house, garden or local park, allowing players to mimic the holes on a golf course.

The aim of the game is for players to come in under par, with the set of six mini-discs allowing up to a ‘6-Ball’ round. Handicaps for little ones are discretionary, but penalties are encouraged. The Mini Frisbee Disc Golf set, comprising a net and six discs, comes in a case size of four and has an SRP of under £20, making it affordable fun for all the family this spring/summer.

The TKC team will be presenting all of its existing products alongside its new offerings for 2019, demonstrating Mini Frisbee Disc Golf as well as the newly improved Aerobie, Stomp, Nerf and many others.

Baby Republic 0800 009 6177 www.elfontheshelf.co.uk Stand: Gallery 155 The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition is the only Christmas elf to include a keepsake box and an enchanting children’s storybook, which tells the story of how the Scout Elves are sent from the North Pole to help Santa manage his nice list.

Santa’s official Scout Elves join their families at the start of the Christmas festivities, creating memorable family moments until Christmas Eve when they return to the North Pole with Santa, until the following year. Each night the Scout Elves return to the North Pole, and each morning families wake up to discover where their Scout Elf has landed on their return.

2018 saw The Elf on the Shelf’s co-author Chanda Bell embark on a UK author tour resulting in national placements across ITV’s This Morning, the Daily Telegraph, the Mail Online and more. In the lead-up to the Christmas period, The Elf on The Shelf also hosted experiential events at Winter Wonderland and Hamleys’ toy stores. A co-branded partnership with Kellogg’s also generatedhuge interest across the UK and IE markets.

Over Toy Fair, visitors will preview exciting new products launching for 2019 including an animated special, Elf Pets A Fox Cub’s Christmas Tale alongside the new Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition, a soft toy plush which comes with its own story book. Additional products to be showcased include the new Claus Couture Collection for 2019, the first ever Orna-POP! Advent Countdown as well as the new Scout Elves at Play inflatables, to create even more special family moments.

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Toy Fair 2019

Mookie Toys 01525 722 769 www.mookie.co.uk Stand number E149 Mookie Toys has enjoyed great success in 2018. With inspiring new product launches in a number of different categories, the company will continue to expand its portfolio with new and exciting brands, as well as development of its existing lines. The new ranges will be heavily supported with a varied marketing strategy including TV campaigns, digital marketing, PR activities and in store display.

Mookie Toys is proud to be the exclusive UK distributor for Yulu, with new, exciting products in a variety of categories such as collectibles, games and outdoor toys. Yulu has already had success with the awardwinning Watermelon Smash, a water roulette game popular with YouTube influencers, including EvanTubeHD, Ryan Toys Reviews and Family Fun Pack, generating hundreds of millions of online views.

As well as Yulu games, Mookie will be launching Flip Finz, Yulu Sports, Stik & Stuffs and Pop Pops. The Yulu Sports range includes Double Juggle, using unique bounce technology, which children can play solo or with two players.

Flip Finz is the next generation of skill and action fidget toys. It has a unique shape and each fin contains a bright LED light that pulses with each move, so children can play day and night. With over 100+ tricks, Flip Finz provides nonstop, exciting challenges to master.

Pop Pops will signal Mookie’s entry into the collectible and slime markets. Inspired by the addictiveness of bubble wrap popping, the range capture the biggest trends in toys: unboxing, collectible and slime crazes. Pop Pops is available as Pop Pops Snotz and Pop Pops Pets. In each range there are 60 to collect, ranging from common to special edition glow in the dark characters. Pop Pops Snotz Play Set not only has bubbles to pop but also has a hammer to slam them with, as well as slime and character storage. The Pop Pops Pets Play Set includes a carousel to display the collected characters and play with. Pop Pops will be supported with multichannelled marketing campaigns throughout the year, including TV, digital, PR activity and in-store displays.

Arts & Crafts continues to be a major focus in 2019. Tybo has been a huge success in 2018, performing consistently well in both spring/summer and autumn/winter.

Mookie is looking to build on this success by adding to the Tybo brand, as well as, launching a new collectible brand RainboElla.

Tybo is a unique, mess free tie-dye experience that children can use with great results every time. New sets will allow children to accessorise their creations after using the Tybo orb to tie dye them. These sets will include a Tybo Print Studio, to screen print various designs onto tie dyed t-shirts using fun stencils and special dye.

Also available will be new glitter and neon dyes, bringing a new element of fun to an already popular product. As in 2018, Tybo will have a heavy media presence in 2019 including TV, PR and a range of social media activities comprising of new digital videos.

RainboEllas are creatable collectibles using a gel that can be cured and hardened, to accessorise and decorate each character.

For the past two years Mookie has been the official UK partner for Silverlit, offering innovative, revolutionary and high-quality remote-control drones, helicopters, cars and robots. For 2019, Silverlit has invested in lower priced innovative tech toys, such as Chimpy, a dancing robot ape.

Robo Chameleon has enjoyed huge success this year, after winning the Spielwarenmesse Toy Award, as well as obtaining a spot on How to Spend it Well at Christmas with Phillip Schofield, and securing a Best in Show trophy. Following on from this success, Mookie is launching Gloopies, a collection of reptile creatures which light up, change colour and make fun noises. There are three to collect including a chameleon, lizard and frog.

Mookie Toys will be showcasing Silverlit at Toy Fair with a focus on new and unconventional robots.

Also at Toy Fair will be Mookie’s outdoor toy lines, including TP Toys, with new products building on the success of 2018. 2019 will be one of the biggest years yet for TP, as the brand celebrates its 60th birthday. Following on from the success of the mud kitchen range, TP Toys has designed a mud kitchen accessory that attaches to the side of the playhouses.

A unique, revolutionary trampoline will be introduced for 2019. The patent pending innovative design has two levels, offering an unrivalled trampolining experience.

The new trampoline will also feature the new TP ‘Elevate’ system, which will revolutionise the way we look after our trampolines.

Mookie will also be showcasing new additions for Swingball in 2019, 3-in1, 5-in-1 and Speedplay Soccer. The company has also invested in engaging new assets to be used in 2019 digital campaigns.

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Toy Fair 2019

Kids@Play 01423 611 047 www.kids-at-play.com STAND 180 Kids@Play welcomes 2019 following a record-breaking year, and having completed its first year under new management. The team will showcase products within the Outdoor, Plush, Games, Pre-school and Arts & Crafts categories.

The products will be available through FOB and domestic supply routes, offering a broad range of price points but importantly meeting the margin needs of retailers. There will be a host of licences on display at Spring Fair; JCB, Landrover, DC Comics, Looney Tunes, Scooby Doo, JK Rowlings Wizarding World, Ecoiffier and Fisher Price.

The Fisher Price Elephant Piano is a key product in the range; an electronic 25-key piano with fun features including four built-in rhythms, four animal sounds, 15 demo melodies and play, stop, and record functions.

Kids@Play ranges will be available to view in Hong Kong, London, Spring Fair, and then at the Toymaster Show and Autumn Fair. It is recommended visitors book an appointment, as the company is anticipating a very busy trade show season, and the team cannot wait to talk to customers about what they are doing.

Wow! Stuff 01902 390 428 www.wowstuff.com STAND 190 Wow! Stuff is focused on innovation in toys for 8-12 year-olds, as well as items for Kidults, with an emphasis on pop culture.

This is reflected in its new launches for 2019.

K-blings, shipping January, is a duel purpose collectible that has become a sales phenomenon in Japan. Originally designed to protect the weakest area of a mobile phone cable, K-blings quickly gained cult collectible status, adopted by celebrities and teens, and adorning every type of cable from headphones to PC console and mobile phone cables.

K-blings are available in singles in blind bags and in five-packs including a blind mystery K-bling, Wow! Stuff has obtained key licences for K-blings across the biggest pop culture brands.

Also new from Wow! Stuff are Talkie DoTs, compact licensed brand Chibi style figures that speak with six iconic phrases that fans will recognise. A unique Patent Display or Tag system makes Talkie DoTs a unique pop culture collectible that can be displayed on the shelf, in the box or on bags.

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Toy Fair 2019

Playmobil 01268 548 111 | www.playmobil.co.uk Stand 210 New licensed products from Ghostbusters, and an array of play sets to accompany the popular Netflix series DreamWorks Spirit Riding Free, will be on show at this year’s London Toy Fair. Playmobil will also launch new DreamWorks Dragons play sets to coincide with the launch of the third film in the successful animated franchise.

A wide range of innovative new play sets will also be unveiled. Pet lovers will enjoy the Playmobil City Life Tiny Paws Pet Hotel, which contains everything animals could possibly need for a comfortable stay away from home. Aspiring astronauts will get the chance to create their own galactic adventures at home with the launch of the Playmobil Mission to Mars Space Station, while the Playmobil Family Fun Summer Villa gives kids access to all the accessories they need to create the perfect vacation, including a fully equipped kitchen, barbecue and flowered balcony.

Attendees to the fair will also gain a sneak preview of Playmobil: The Movie as well as the new toy range. Life-sized Playmobil figures will feature on the stand, and a range of costume characters taking part in the parade.

Rachel Lowe 07957 186 064 | www.rachellowe.co.uk STAND GH16 Rachel Lowe Games & Puzzles has created a board game based on the hit TV drama Call The Midwife. The series is one of the most watched shows on TV, with the Christmas Special being the most watched programme on Christmas Day, with around 10m viewers.

In the board game, women all over Poplar are going into labour. The midwives ofNonnatus House have never been so busy, delivering babies in all sorts of locations. midwives must try not to get a bicycle puncture or forget their delivery pack as they might be delivering twins or even triplets. It is a race to get back to Nonnatus House to find out where their next delivery will be. The midwife to deliver the most babies wins the game. Players can enjoy playing this fun, family game, even if they have not seen the show.

The board game is one of three products in the range, which also includes a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle and a set of playing cards.

The announcement of the new release on the Call The Midwife Official Facebook page created so much international interest, that rights were extended to include worldwide shipping, and deliveries were made to all four corners of the globe.

Rachel has been creating games for over 16 years and is well known for the Destination brand of board games for which she created games under licence, for Disney Pixar, Harry Potter, The London 2012 Olympic Games and Downton Abbey. The new licensing company creates games and puzzles for film and television, and her new range includes products for Call The Midwife, Hotel Transylvania and Jumanji, and she has recently signed global rights for Laurel & Hardy with Larry Harmon Pictures Corporation.

The Hotel Transylvania Board Games features Drac and Mavis embarking on a cruise ship adventure with the gang, and the aim of the game is to complete cruise ship activities and collect must-have accessories. The winner must also find their Zing.

8th Wonder 01942 829 811 | www.8thwonder.co.uk STAND G110 8th Wonder has been designing and manufacturing high quality durable wooden and plush toys for over 20 years. All its wooden toys are FSC accredited.

8th Wonder will be revealing four new licensed popular pre-school character ranges across wooden and plush toys. This will be alongside BBC Only Fools and Horses interactive plush toys and 8TH Wonder own branded products.

The company’s wooden toy ranges are based on popular childrens series Hey Duggee, Something Special and Sarah & Duck. They feature classic wooden toys including a light & sound train, a bus, sound puzzles, dominoes and clocks.

Additionally, 8th Wonder will have interactive plush toys available under the Sarah & Duck licence. All ranges will be available spring 2019.

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Allegedly

I briefly touched on the subject of Black Friday in last month’s Allegedly column. Rather like the overall trading picture, the feedback I’ve had has on this year’s event been decidedly mixed. Talking to a selection of suppliers, it seems that some retailers experienced a surge in demand, while others fared less well – there was no consistent pattern. The challenges presented by Black Friday are well documented: the reduction in margin is a key issue. I saw a forensic examination of the numbers posted on LinkedIn by an American toy company owner, which inferred that neither suppliers nor retailers make any profit at all on the high- profile Black Friday sale items. I am not sure if the ‘zero margin’ effect would be quite as pronounced here in the UK, but there is no doubt that everyone in the chain takes a considerable hit in terms of profit. As ever, the media focused on the fact that some offers were not all they seemed, and there is no denying that some retailers used ‘smoke and mirrors’ tactics to imply huge savings which were perhaps not as great as were being portrayed.

The conundrum is arguably one of expectation versus commercial reality: consumers are looking for ‘wow’ offers that are almost too good to be true, and given the level of promotional activity that has already taken place over the past month or two, retailers rarely have much further wriggle room. Timing is also an issue: many believe that Black Friday comes a little late for the toy industry.

Some have suggested that it would be far more effective if it took place just after Bonfire Night – otherwise, there is a risk that consumers are being encouraged to delay their purchase in the hope of making incredible savings (which may or may not come), which brings its own set of challenges. I have some sympathy with that argument, and also the accompanying belief that sales suffer in the weeks running up to Black Friday. However, I can also offer some tangible evidence which muddies the waters, from what some may see as an unlikely source: John Lewis increased its toy sales by a whopping 37% in Black Friday week, beating its forecast by 15%. I’m told that customer reaction to this year’s promotional offer was “unprecedented”, with high price point items selling out within hours.

John Lewis’ toy department sales were down during the two weeks preceding Black Friday, but it took just three days last week to make up that loss, illustrating just how significant that week has become for many retailers. It’s another example of a disruptive retail initiative which presents both challenges and opportunities for the whole toy community…

I’m hearing rumours that Disney’s Frozen sequel may have a few surprises in store; chiefly, that the core themes of the first movie – ice, snow and general coldness…. there’s a clue in the title – are being side-lined this time around. The style guide is said to be something of a departure too – and, according to licensees, not necessarily in an altogether good way. I also gather that the licence is being pitched as a 50:50 boy / girl split, which may raise a few eyebrows. The inevitable secrecy (some might say paranoia) surrounding the project makes it difficult to know just how accurate these rumours are – but as one licensee has taken to referring to the new movie as ‘Defrosted’, it does seem likely that it is not a complete exaggeration. It will be fascinating to see how retail buyers and movie-goers react to the new twists…

Top Toys has become the latest specialist toy retailer to hit financial trouble, filing for restructuring in the bankruptcy court. I’m told that it was a good quality, premium toy retailer, held in high regard both locally and internationally. Hopefully its strategy of “simplifying

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and optimising the healthy parts of the business” will enable it to continue to play a key role in the region. But its tribulations have certainly struck a chord with domestic retailers, with my phone ringing within seconds of the news being sent out. The general consensus is that we are nearing – or indeed may have already reached – a tipping point; one person asked “How many more retailers do we need to lose before we wake up and, as an industry, do something differently? Do we genuinely value the magical experience of children buying toys in stores? If so, we need to face reality and start talking about practical solutions.”

It’s certainly not easy to start a dialogue of this magnitude on a worldwide scale, and even harder to come up with tangible solutions – if there were ‘easy wins’, they would surely have been enacted by now. However, I can at least start the ball rolling by throwing it out there and starting a conversation…

The tired TV programme Watchdog decided to take a swing at the toy market in December. Lazy thinking – it’s Christmas, let’s run a scare story about toys – was compounded by lazy investigation, as the show tried to whip up a storm in a teacup over connected toys (that old chestnut), and specifically VTech’s Innotab. It was a nonstory from the start: no data breach ever occurred, any risk was ridiculously unlikely in the first place – it would have taken a military intelligence-grade hacker and a series of highly unlikely events – and, crucially, VTech fixed the tiny loophole months ago anyway, so technically there was nothing to see here. Of course, that didn’t stop Watchdog, even though it should have done. Contrast that with the power of TV to support the toy trade: Philip Schofield’s ‘How to spend it well at Christmas’ show may not win any awards, but I would wager it helped to sell a lot of toys. And you only have to look at the Late, Late Show toy special over in Ireland to see just how effective TV coverage can be in the run-up to Christmas. It’s just a shame the BBC couldn’t adopt a more positive stance, rather than trying to imitate The Grinch…

Someone representing Amazon – who was allegedly calling from Lithuania – has been contacting UK toy suppliers with a tempting proposition. Essentially, they are being asked to sign up to what have been described as “horrendous” new terms (effectively doubling their current financial obligation), with the threat that Amazon will stop raising orders if they don’t submit. Described bluntly by several suppliers as “bullying”, it does appear to be a conscious attempt at reducing the number of vendors, particularly those whose turnover is under the £5m required to qualify for a vendor manager. The suggestion is that pressure is being applied to ‘encourage’ suppliers to move from the vendor central to the seller central programme. Of course, the advantages of this to Amazon are clear; no risk with stock and also an easy way of obviating responsibility for safety issues and counterfeits…

Another major problem suppliers have increasingly found with Amazon is trans-shipping – Amazon’s predilection for buying goods from the cheapest supplier in Europe, regardless of whether or not it has a relationship with the official UK distributor. One supplier told me this week that Amazon had even charged him for promotional activity on a particular line, despite the fact that the stock of the item in question was being purchased via a completely different European supplier. One of the very few upsides of Brexit could be to throw a spanner in the works of this onerous practice.

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