Y DA
NEWS
2
DAILY
Don’t M iss In
The Toy Fair’s ONLY officiall d daily aily paper
Pie in the sky Hasbro crowned winners at toy awards
Monday, M Mo nday nd ayy, January Jan 25, 2016
side:
• Interv ie Playmo ws with Wye vale an bil d • Indep endent retailer • Best New To s ys anno reveal all unced
Alan Simpson awards a happy team Hasbro with the much-coveted prize
Spicing up toy fair It’s the award that everyone one in the toy industry wants to win. n. Forget the Oscars, ignore the Baftas, s, as for the Golden Globes… last night’s ht’s awards are the only game in town. wn. The awards are the culmination lmination of a year’s hard work by the e toy industry and this year saw Hasbro o smiling all over their Pie Face as they ey lifted the night’s top award. The cream of the industry stry gathered for the awards presentation tion at Olympia. Two dozen gongs were handed out over the course of the evening g including two much-coveted Golden Teddy eddy Awards, plus a special Toy Personality Of The Year was announced for Mattel’s Paul Dean. The full list of awards and winners can be found on page three. The nightt opened with the award for Independent Toy Retailer of the Year, which went to Julie Bennington and Jason Mahy of Aladdin’s Cave from Guernsey. They said: “We’re over the moon, thrilled; it’s absolutely brilliant.”
Retailer of the Year was Overall Toy R Smyths Toys, who also won the category for sspecialist retailer with stores. Speaking to the Daily over 30 stores News, owner Padraig Smyth said: “We P have a great st store team and operations team, everyone works really hard. It’s a combination of everyone at Smyths, a real team effort.” effort for Department In the new category ca Store Toy Department WJ Daniel & Co Depar came out on top while Argos took the General Multiples Retailers title, with Toy Barnhaus Barnha winning the Specialist Multiples Up To 30 stores, Mult while Toytown Seaford took wh the title for up to five stores. Owner Ginette McGee, who Ow collected the award with col the rest of her team, said: “I’m ssurprised, honoured and delighted.” delighted The Toy Of The Year was awarded to Pie Face Game from Hasbro with BTHA Chairman Phil Ratcliffe introducing it by saying that when something is a hit everyone wants to copy it, adding: “But our award is to the original!” Continued on Page 2
Eagle-eyed celeb spotters were lucky enough to catch Spice Girl Mel C at Toy Fair yesterday. Melanie was supporting pal Toy Fair TV’s Gavin Inskip. Speaking exclusively to the Daily News, Melanie said: “As a parent it’s nice to see so many educational toys out there and things we can do together. The girls like Sylvanian Families, Shopkins - and they love Marvin’s Magic. We’re having an excellent day.”
Top 10 for 2015 Collectables and a certain snow princess helped spur the UK toy trade to further growth in 2015. According to NPD’s top 10 best sellers for 2015 in sterling, LEGO Minifigures, Flair’s Shopkins 2 pack and LEGO’s Disney Frozen Elsa Sparkling Ice Castle topped the charts as the year’s three hottest toys. LEGO - LEGO Minifigures Flair - Shopkins 2 Pack LEGO - Disney Frozen Elsa Sparkling Ice Castle Hasbro - Pie Face Game Mookie Toys - Smart Trike 4 in 1 Trike Assorted Jakks Pacific - Disney Frozen Sing Along with Elsa GP Flair - Shopkins Pack of 12 Hasbro - Nerf N Strike Elite Modulus Blaster Mattel - Hot Wheels Basic Car Assorted LEGO - Star Wars Millenium Falcon
Head Buy er Laura B utler picks up Sm yths’ first win of the even ing
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Toy Barnhaus scoops the Specialist Multiple award up to 30 stores
The stars of the toy story
WJ Danie l&C take o the n ew a buyers W ward arren
Du P reez With Phil presenting the industry awards, Toy Retailers’ and L aure Association Chairman Alan Simpson presented the retailers’ n Ca no honours, pointing out beforehand that “the UK is Europe’s top per capita toy market”. Phil added: “On behalf of the BTHA, I would like to congratulate all the winners of this year’s Toy Retailer Awards.” Speaking of the big win, Hasbro’s Martin Rowe said: “Although it was brought to the forefront by a viral video, it is a testament to a great product and marketing campaign that has brought families together and makes them laugh out loud.” Having picked up the Construction Toy award with Star Wars LEGO, the company was also named Supplier of the Year. There was a Special Recognition award for Epoch Making Toys while Disney’s Commercial Director UK Claire Peacock collected the Toy Licence Of The Year Trophy for Frozen. Spin Master picked up two awards — having to run up to Shop Direct the stage as PAW Patrol PAW Patroller took the Pre-School scoop Onlin e Toy Reta title almost before they had time to sit down from collecting iler of the d n Year a n o t g in n the Creative award for Wacky-tivities Kinectic Sand. The n e B e li u J ’s er Interactive title went to Little Live Pets Bird Cage and Character Options winn Year f the Marketing Director Jerry Healy: “Little Live Pets is just a great product, with o r e il Reta Cave t Toy great range. All the price points are there at retail and the brand is only going ’s n e in d d en lad Indep ahy of A to get stronger from now on.” M n o Jas Flair’s Shopkins took the Collectable title with Marketing Director Nic Aldridge saying: “There’s stiff competition in this category, and that makes us even more proud of the win. We’ve had two phenomenal years on the run with Shopkins, and 2016 is looking just as healthy.” The time flew by as the gongs were handed out and soon it was time for the winners to bask in the reflected glow of their triumph as the runners-up offered genuine congratulations. All in all, it was another unforgettable night in the British toy industry.
Epoch Recog
Nic Aldridge and the Flai r team are tr with Shopki iumphant in ns the Collectab les category
Nerf Modulus and the Hasbro team hit the target in the Action category
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Julie Be nningto n and Ja the Yea son Mah r winne y from In r Aladd in’s Cav depend e with B ent Toy THA Ch Retailer airman of Phil Ratc liffe
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And the winners are!
Golden toy boys honoured
TOY RETAILER OF THE YEAR WINNERS: Independent Toy Retailer of the Year: Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (up to 5 stores): Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (up to 30 stores): Specialist Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year (over 30 stores): Online Toy Retailer of the Year: General Multiple Toy Retailer of the Year: Department Store Toy Retailer of the Year:
Aladdin’s Cave, Guernsey Toytown (Seaford) Toy Barnhaus Smyths Toys Shop Direct Argos W J Daniel & Co, Windsor
TOY AND SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR AWARDS: Collectable Range of the Year : Construction Range of the Year: Action Toy of the Year: Doll of the Year: Interactive Toy of the Year: Creative Toy of the Year: Pre-School Toy of the Year: Innovative Toy of the Year: Feature Plush Toy of the Year: Toy Licence of the Year: Supplier of the Year: Special Recognition Award: Personality of The Year: Toy Retailer of the Year: Toy of the Year:
Shopkins, Flair Star Wars, LEGO Nerf Modulus, Hasbro Disney Frozen Sing-Along-Elsa, Jakks Pacific kks Pacific Little Live Pets Bird Cage, Character er Op Options Wacky-tivities Kinetic Sand, Spin Master Mast Ma M ster te Paw Patrol Paw Patroller, Spin Master ster IDo3D Deluxe 3D Design Studio, Flair Puppy Surprise, Trends Star Wars, Disney LEGO EPOCH making toys Paul Dean, Mattel Smyths Toys Pie Face, Hasbro
Golden Teddy Award Tom Beach Tom Beach has been a stalwart of the BTHA Toy Safety Advisory group and member of the BTHA Technical committee for many years. He is known for his thoughtfulness and care with an honest approach and always gives his best to every task. He is a popular member of the technical toy community and is widely respected for his integrity and enthusiasm.
Golden Teddy Award Mike Frost, Generation Media Mike Frost of Generation Media Exchange has worked in the toy industry for over 30 years. He is described as a true gentleman and someone who places honesty and integrity at the heart of the manner in which he conducts himself. He is respected by clients and peers alike.
Characte r Option s’ Little L Bird and ive Pets Cage take s the titl Interactiv e for e Toy of the Year
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NEWS Her MAJ-esty says A preview of what to expect from today’s Media Day from the head of Toy Fair operations and sales, Majen Immink Yesterday saw the celebration of the best of toys, suppliers, personalities and retailers at the Toy Industry Awards. The Toy of the Year 2015 went to Pie Face from Hasbro, Smyths was voted overall Best Toy Retailer of 2015 and the coveted Supplier of the Year Award was picked up by LEGO. In addition, I would like to give huge congratulations to the winners of the people’s Oscars, the Golden Teddies – the winners were Tom Beach and Mike Frost. Congratulations to all! Having celebrated the best of the industry last year – all of which helped to drive the increase in market value that will be reported today – we move forward to reveal the products of 2016! It never ceases to amaze me how positive the toy industry is as it moves into a new year
Top choice for dads
Stand and deliver Green Board Games (E15) has done it again, taking the prize for the BTHA’s Best Designed Stand in the open space category. The junglethemed display houses all the company’s fantastic card and board games, and there’s even a chance to take a wild selfie with a funky mirror and accessories. In the shell scheme category, it was Big Potato (H22) that came out on top with a fruit and veg stall inspired stand that comes complete with its own lawn. “We’ve had the groundsman in,” joked co-founder Tris Williams. “We didn’t have a lot of money or space, so we wanted to get really creative and produce something that showcases our products to their best. “We test ran the stand at a few other shows, and it’s always gone down well. Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair Operations and Sales, said the choosing of the winners had been tough, but creativity came out on top. “Big Potato’s stand is really eyecatching, and both the winners have got really creative to make the most of their space. Both of the winners really stood out to us, so congratulations.”
Dad’s Choice A wards 2016 will open to all exhibitors for en tries in Februa ry . Following a successful 20 15 awards, the team behind Dad’s Choice la unched a new website in October and w ere thrilled the awards gained fantastic PR co verage in natio na l press, online and women’s lif estyle magazin es . David Ross, founder said: “W e are delighted with the ongoing succes s of the Dads C hoice Awards.” More informatio n about how to enter can be found at www.d adschoiceawar ds.co.uk
with brand-new product launches. Our industry continues to be innovative and imaginative - not surprising when you consider that more than 50,000 new products entered the toy market last year. We expect to welcome more than 300 journalists today for Media Day as well as our usual buyers and visitors. The 9.30am Press Briefing will take place next to the information desk in the centre of the ground floor. Phil Ratcliffe, BTHA Chairman, will welcome exhibitors, visitors and media to the fair and tell you exactly what you can expect to see going on in the halls today with product launches and celebrity appearances; and Frederique Tutt of NPD group will be giving a round-up of toy industry statistics and letting us all know how our industry performed in 2015.
L I A R RET E N CORwith... with.... Sarah C Cheeseman and Stephen Barnes Toy Barnhaus “We like the show and, seeing as it’s on a Sunday, there seems to be a good amount of people here. It was actually easier for us to get here by train and public transport. Last year Paw Patrol was the stand-out licence and there is a lot more around this year. We did very good business last year and had a good Christmas so it’s very positive. We’re looking to see what’s new and we’re here tomorrow too.”
Stars in their eyes Arklu were celebrating at Toy Fair yesterday after UK astronaut Tim Peake tweetd a picture of one of their products in space. Stargazer Lottie was captured in the space station yesterday, Sunday. Team Arklu told us: “It almost looks Photoshopped but it’s definitely real because he sent it and within an hour or so there were 291 retweets and over 800 favourites. We do have a #lottieinspace campaign going on Twitter and have created images for that which look good, and she answers questions online from chidren about space.”
Show offers HALILIT – Stand E90 - Buy any 6 CDUS of Halilit products and receive the FSDU FOC - Lower carriage paid minimum order value – just £150 until the end of January! - Special launch offers on our brand new ranges Lori and Terra and all Taf Toys new items:
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Lori – spend £250 and receive a free box of outfits worth £80 at retailTerra – buy Terra bundle receive a 15% discount - 10% discount off all orders placed at the Show (excludes special deals). Terra Bundle: 1 box playsets (4pcs). 2 boxes
families (8pcs). 3 boxes tubes (8pcs). Total retail value £243.80 Offer price = £110 – SAVE 15% JUMBO GAMES – Stand E46 Offer 1: 5% OFF on all orders placed at the show (can be used in conjunction with trading
terms and other offers but excluding clearance stock). Offer 2: 15% OFF on orders over £1500 (capped at 15% cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer). Jumbo Games will hold a prize draw each day of the show and 1 lucky winner will WIN £500 of
Jumbo credit on their next order (only valid for orders placed at the show. Credit valid for 6 months. Credit to be redeemed against the next order). LES & LOU – Stand B92 Discount of 10% for orders placed at Toy Fair 2016.
Best New Toys
Vivid’s Kira Mutimer with the Supersize Thunderbird 3
Hornby corgi
Thunderbirds and Scalextric show oldies are best at Toy Fair Awards
Arklu-Lottie Dolls-Stargazer Lottie
Evergreen favourites show they have what it takes to stay at the top Classic toys Thunderbirds and Scalextric took home gongs each last night at the BTHA ceremony. Evergreen favourite Teletubbies also went home from Olympia with a prize. The Thunderbird playset from Vivid won and the Teletubbies triumphed with the 8-inch talking plush toys from Character. New toys were not left out as the Lilypad Gardens from Interplay UK and the 4M Green Science Junk Yard Drummer from Great Gizmos all won awards. The thirteen categories produced 35 winning toys from 25 different companies. Toy Fair is the UK’s only dedicated toy, game and hobby trade exhibition, playing host to more than 260 exhibitors launching thousands of new products. A panel of independent toy retailers picked the winners who they believe have the potential to make a splash in shops throughout the year and beyond. The winning toys cover the gamut of price points from the very affordable such as the Star Monsters, Pocket Friends priced at £1 (Esdevium) and StikBot at £3.99 (Brainstorm) to the big budget buys for special occasions like the Scalextric Track day, priced at £199.99 (Hornby) and City Airport £79.99 (Lego). Since the first awards in 2009, more than 200 toys have received the respected Best New Toys Award including apps, licensed toys and construction toys. “Once again, we are delighted to be able to showcase the winners at Toy Fair” commented Natasha Crookes from the British Toy and Hobby Association. “It’s fantastic to see such a diverse range of products on offer this year — for every budget and play experience. More than 50,000 new toys enter nter the market each year that need to excite parents and children alike. This year’ss winners once again highlight the innovation and creativity of the UK toy industry”. *Pending approval. Final product may vary from shown.
Danger Mouse Jazwares*
Ravensburger railway set
Lego NexoKnights
Green Science Junk Yard Drummer
John Adams, Simon Pilkington, with their best new toys
COMPANY
PRODUCT NAME
RRP
STAND
ACTION TOYS Jazwares Character Vivid
Danger Mouse – Mark IV Danger Car Stretch Armstrong Supersize Thunderbird 3 Playset
£14.99 £19.99 £49.99
D99 E119 B70
£39.99
Gallery
£79.99
Gallery
£15.99
Gallery
Corgi Top Gun F-14A Scalextric Track Day JCB 4220 FASTRAC TRACTOR
£19.99 £199.99 £19.99
D11 D11 Gallery
DOLLS Arklu Ltd Flair
Gold Collection Stargazer Lottie Doll Shopkins Shoppies Dolls
£19.99 £14.99
B135 E39
O OUTDOOR W Wicked V Vivid H. H Grossman
Wicked Mega Bounce XL Harry Kane Volley Blaster Speedy Scooter from Ozbozz
£19.99 £9.99 £20.00
E100 B70 E49
P POCKET MONEY B Brainstorm E Esdevium
StikBot Star Monsters, Pocket Friends
£3.99 From £1
D2 E109
P PLUSH S Spin Master R Rainbow Designs C Character
Popples Talk & Pop Plush Whizzpopping BFG Teletubbies 8 inch Talking Plush Toys
£19.99 £19.99 £9.99
E131 E120 E119
Freddie the Firefly Gym
£29.99
Gallery
CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING SETS LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS: Jestro’s Evil Monster 550 LEGO City Airport 550 Revell GmbH Junior Kit 100 HOBBIES & VEHICLES Hornby Hobbie Hornby Hobbies TOMY 520
INFANT & PRE-SCHOOL IN TOMY T 520 5 Vtech V 500 5 Spin Master S
Toot-Toot Splash Bath Island
£21.99
Gallery
Paw Patrol Air Patroller
£39.99
E131
CREATIVE Flair Interplay Character
Cool Create 2-in-1 Sticker Magic Lilypad Gardens Pom Pom Wow!
£19.99 £19.99 £29.99
E39 G10 E119
PIXL i-loom
£9.99 £29.99
B70 Gallery
Soggy Doggy Silly Sausage Where Do I Live?
£19.99 £19.99 £9.50
G100 G100 B12
£39.99 £39.99 £49.99
E140 B130 Gallery
£16.95 £29.99
G20 Gh42
TECH TOYS Vivid Wooky Entertainment 180 GAMES & PUZZLES John Adams John Adams Orchard Toys
PLAYSETS Ravensburger My First Railway Battery Train Set from Brio Epoch Sylvanian Families Boutique Playmobil Pirate’s Combat Ship 210 SPECIALITY TOYS Great Gizmos Eduk8 Worldwide
4M Green Science Junk Yard Drummer Large Playmat Games
Making a splash in 2016...
Stand
500
t a u o y e e S r i a F y o T n o d n Lo
VTech is excited to launch Toot-Toot Splash at the 2016 London Toy Fair. With developments to much loved ranges as well as brand new additions in other categories. Visit our stand to see more!
NEWS
L I A T E R RNER CO
Vicky Brown and Laura Chalkley Just Williams Toys
What stand impressed you most? I really liked the Ravensburger stand.
Pep in their step
What is the most exciting product that you’ve seen or are looking forward to seeing?
Trends UK Stand B20
The range of Brio wooden toys has been impressive.
Trends UK is stepping into new territory with its first range of electronic learning aids — and Peppa is along for the journey. Still in development, Adam White, Marketing Assistant, Trends UK tells Daily News that its new Peppa Pig licensed ELA range is something the team are really excited about. “Trends is already well known for our science lines, and now we’re really beginning to branch out into other categories. These are all new products, with re-recorded lines and fun designs, and we’re working really hard to bring something fresh to the market in this space.”
E E F F COREAK B
Flying Gadgets Stand F101
VTech
Stand 500
VTech baby has had a fantastic year, as the highest ranking non-film led property. It’s something we’re really excited about. We have ranges from birth upwards. We’re both senior brand managers so we have our sections to focus on. We have clear divisions of what we excel in. It also helps us to meet trends in the older age group, for example our Kidizoom smart watch before the leading adult version.
You’re also adding to your doll range, tell us more about that?
Technology! There are so many apps to accompany products, technology is definitely playing a huge part
Making waves
with... Rebecca Lazarus and Charlotte Drake
You’re launching more than a hundred new products this year, how do you ensure that you diversify?
What’s standing out for you so far?
added a new doll to the range and this year we’re adding Little Love Cuddle and Care. Each doll has unique features with a different character, and can be played with together or as the child develops.
Have you applied any new licences, and if not is this on the horizon? We always look at licences — we don’t rely solely on licences but it is important to us especially in items such as software. We’ve got popular titles such as Lion Guard, Finding Dory, Teletubbies range has three items and a couple of items in PAW Patrol. Licences for Vtech in other areas helps us grow.
What’s your favourite
We first launched Little Love brew? doll in 2014 and it did really A strong cup of tea! Builder’s well, coming in the top five of tea! That’s what you get with nurturing dolls. Last year we two Northern lasses.
Flying Gadgets has brought an incredible new drone to Olymp ia this year: one that can function on land, sea and air. The X-Water is a qua dcopter that acts exactly as you’d exp ect in the air, but functions just as well when submerged in water. Ace drone pilot and Flying Gadget s Business Manager, Jonathan Palmer, was giving demos on the stand.
Crayola announces new range of branded games for 2016 With sales across the Crayola portfolio historically focused around stationery and toy, this year sees Vivid introducing a range of adult colouring into the Crayola offering alongside the new games line, as the company celebrates its 100th anniversary. Second to none in terms of creative play, Vivid believes that although the games market is new to Crayola, with the massive consumer awareness and brand heritage to support its arrival into the games aisle, the brand could easily become one synonymous with games. Believed to be a natural move for both the company and for the Crayola brand, Vivid will be launching three new games for autumn/winter 2016 each designed to introduce a range of ages to the concept of fun and creative gameplay.
NEWS Tim Holness, Paul Seymour-Simpson, Tony Lewis & Chris Smalley Amscan Stand B75 “We’ve just launched a new dress-up catalogue with more than 500 new SKUs, there’s lots more accessories and wearables that can be put together to make outfits. And we have an exciting new range of balloons and foils, with new milestone ages and alphabet letters. And in the Airwalkers range the Storm Trooper is one of the most popular with Paw Patrol and Minions so that ties in with a lot of the licences that are around the show.”
5 things about… Green Board Game Company: Stand E15
L I A T E R RNER CO
with... Jarrolds buyer Selina Clarke
“I’m the buyer for toys and arts & crafts, haberdashery, young craft and baby gifting. I can buy toys and baby gifting so it’s very good for me. “I did have to get a bus and a train to get here today though. I’m looking for new and original really. “We had a good year with preschool so anything that helps with that and new lines and new licences.
Shopkins are great, they just come in and fly out of the store. We’ve just done some new bits with DKL from the Scratch range which is a new bit of wooden range so that covers baby gift. “I’m now looking at Sofie le Girafe because we keep being asked for it so would be great for baby gifting — I’m just about to tackle them!”
Run-along for Twirlywoos silliness Today’s the day you can see Golden Bear’s new Run-along Twirlywoos collection as the company is showcasing it on their stand. The range includes all four Twirlywoos characters — Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy and Chick — and has been designed to replicate the hilarious Twirlywoos run which fans will recognise from the hit CBeebies TV show created by children’s TV legend Anne Wood.
1. It’s Green Board Games 25th Anniversary this year! 2. Alpha Animals, the first game founder Gary Wyatt invented is still being sold today. 3. The only company in the Toy Industry that have three Green Apple awards! 4. Before Christmas, the whole of the GBG team were in the warehouse processing orders because the world went BrainBox Crazy. 5. 7,800 GBG products are sold per week in the UK!
The toy trade has had a strong few years by all accounts. What can we all do as an industry to ensure this winning streak continues in 2016? Keep moving forward. We all need to keep working hard to make sure that the industry is evolving to meet consumers’ expectations.
Sam Ireland, Operations Manager, Bigjigs Toys
Snout and about We’d be telling porkies if we said Winning Moves’ giant inflatable Pass the Pigs at the visitors entrance didn’t wow the Daily News team!
Winning Moves, Stand: E115
What is your favourite Toy Fair memory or funniest Toy Fair moment? Last year at Toyfair, one of our Account Managers decided to throw a bit of a catwalk style walk up the aisle to our stand first thing on a Tuesday morning — sunglasses on, jacket swung over the shoulder, the works! Not sure why but it was the funniest thing at the time. Definitely started the day well. Angie Tutt, Brand Director, LEGO
NEWS Dedicated to guiding the way Stand: Gallery 154 s at Fundamentally There’s a unique Toy Fair offering this year, from the expert exciting toys when Children. As producers of the Good Toy Guide, they know t lines not produc they see them and this year’s stand will display five new being showcased anywhere else at the event. designed wooden Toy Fair visitors can see top quality products from British accessory — the toys by Indigo Jamm to the latest must have scooter and bike Mini Hortnit. ng feedback from Skinny Sketcher has expanded their product range followi ing their new Fundamentally Children’s expert testers, and they are launch to get a sneak peak Colour Me Cup on the Good Toy Guide stand — be the first Teepee as well MyWee at it. Gallery 154 will also house a gorgeous teepee from as a new maths game prototype from BeGenio.
Chicco Gallery120
(left to right) Team Chicco wer e out in force at Toy Fair, pictured is: Cath Nee dham, Jon Tilley, Giulia Toselli, Natalie Jac kson
Art + Soul! Henry Chan, a student at Liverpool’s Hope University will be making a star appearance on all three days of Toys Fair after being named GP Flair’s Brand Ambassador for IDO3D. Henry was selected following months of appeals, shortlisting and after hundreds of student and artist entries were submitted to the search. He will receive a bursary of £2,000 towards his future art career which will be formally presented at 12 noon on Monday 25th by GP Flair! Make sure you visit the stand (E39) to see Henry at work!
Sleeping granny Stand: Gallery 520 Make sure you tiptoe onto the Tomy stand, because you won’t want to wake their special guest! Granny is on the stand going head to head with visitors on the brand new
Tell us your favourite joke… but keep it relatively clean!
Greedy Granny Game, which tasks players with stealing her biscuits without disturbing her slumber.
Two toy experts brought home a puzzle one day, and sat down to solve it. A week later, they finished the puzzle. “Well, that didn’t take so long,” said one of them. “No, it didn’t,” the other replied. “Especially considering it says 3-5 years on the box.”
Severine Hemms, Tomy’s Senior Trade Marketing Manager, says that the new launch marks the company’s refocus on the burgeoning games category. “This is our quirkiest game yet, and a great new addition to the games category which is enjoying real growth across the industry.”
David Allan, Sales and Marketing Director, DKL
Show offers UL VS LTD — Stand B71 Giving away a free safety seminar place each day. Clients leave a business card on stand B71 to be in the daily draw. WILD CARD GAMES — Stand H20 10% off all orders placed at Toy Fair for SKI RUN, the action packed race across
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the mountain where you try to be the first player back to the resort for the Après Ski. To find out more about our new games and the success of our existing lines that are proven year round sellers, book a meeting or come and see us on Stand H20.
Celebrity chef Annabel Karmel takes afternoon tea with Casdon Leading children’s chef, food expert and entrepreneur Annabel Karmel is to make an appearance on Casdon’s stand (E30) at 2pm today, where she will chat with visitors about the stunning Children’s Cookware Range that is part of the Casdon’s roleplay portfolio.
On Trend
My Living World — Ant World Interplay UK
Stand: G10 Discover the fascinating life of a formicary — ants in an ideal environment. Watch the ants build tunnels, keep their home tidy and feed each other — the best entertainment for a young naturalist. Ant World provides hours of fun as well as being educational. Children are encouraged to collect their own ants and told how to in the instruction manual.
Cyber Robot Clementoni
Stand: Gallery 155 Download on tablet and smartphone, the APP Free programme to assemble and programme the robot and use your tablet to give it commands with movements and lighting effects of the robot! You can also control the robot in real time, as if using a remote control!
Looking for...
STEM Explosive Science Science4you
Stand: Gallery 199 Developed to encourage little scientists from the age of eight, this Explosive Science kit isn’t just a toy — it has a scientific learning component. The set includes all the required materials and a booklet providing instructions.
Education is an incredibly important part of play and STEM toys are designed to meet that need — while also providing plenty of fun. Take a look at some of those available at Toy Fair
Discovery Kids Globe Planetarium Trends UK
ScienceX CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Ravensburger
Stand: E140 With this amazing set of experimentation, you can investigate like the famous forensic biologist Mark Beneke. The set includes 12 activities designed to stimulate children aged 8 and older. ScienceX is where science, fun and learning collide.
Stand: B20 Discovery Channel science toys range have been refreshed with Discovery Kids branding for 2016, enhancing the appeal. The Globe Planetarium features a light-up globe that projects on to the walls and ceiling. The base rotates the globe and a light pointer enables particular constellations to be pointed out.
Robot Mouse Activity Set Learning Resources
Stand: D36 Programme your mouse to find the cheese and customise a maze. For ages 5+, it provides an introduction to STEM learning, as children start to understand concepts such as coding, step programming and logic. For solo or small group activities.
Magic Cauldron Orchard Toys
Stand: B12 This magician-themed maths game makes learning addition and subtraction fun! Includes heat-sensitive patches that reveal the answers.
Wyevale Interview
Roots of new fruits Wyevale Garden Centres started selling toys 18 months ago and it’s a growing category. The Daily News caught up with buyer Steve Pearson to find out more Toys are a bit of a departure from the plants and garden ornaments that Wyevale is known for. When did you first begin adding toys to the product mix? Wyevale Garden Centres have always ranged a small selection of toys within our centres. However, we really seriously expanded the space and range from Christmas 2014. How much space is dedicated to toys — presumably it differs between locations? How do you merchandise toys in-store? Our toy departments differ in size dependent upon the space and footfall of the centre. Our garden centres vary in scale from large destination centres, to smaller more garden-centric establishments. We try to inspire and excite all our customers with colourful and vibrant toy displays. Great
visual merchandising techniques are really important to our kids’ departments. And what do you look for when sourcing new toys for Wyevale customers? We source and range a variety of toys and kids’ products for all ages that resonate with all our customers. Our ranges have to offer great value for money whilst providing superb play value. Educational, safe and environmentally friendly toys are important to our customers. Whilst, getting the kids enjoying and having fun with toys outside, in the garden or park fits perfectly with our product offering. Garden centres have been moving into a family destination over the past few years, with
Safari animal rescue lorry
Wyevale Interview restaurants, events, gifts departments and the like. How do toys slot into this vision at Wyevale? We are working really hard to attract more families to our garden centres using our Little Diggers initiatives. This includes offering children’s parties and inviting families to interesting events throughout the year. We are doing this through offering regular kids’ events over school holiday periods in many of our centres and restaurants. A great example would be our Little Diggers’ Wildlife Week coming to many of our centres this half term. We offer great value kids’ meals in all our restaurants, and many of our garden centres offer soft play areas to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy your coffee. Some of our larger destination garden centres offer adventure golf and Christmas ice rinks. Our centres are great places to visit at Christmas with the kids to perhaps choose the Christmas tree, have tea or breakfast with Father Christmas or visit Santa’s Grotto. Plus, our range of products has developed in our centres to offer something for all the family in our stores or many different concession partners. Does bringing elements of play to the retail environment with things like kids’ parties and face painting boost your toy sales? § Our family friendly events are an important part of our business. We offer a huge array of events throughout the year in many of our centres, because we want all our customers to enjoy
their visits to our garden centres and have a great shopping experience. Interesting and compelling events for 2016 include story telling, Bee Week and Kids’ Nature Workshops and these help to increase footfall and maximise our sales in all areas of the centre including toys. Could independent toy retailers do something similar to get more feet through the door? Wyevale Garden Centres offer events for all the family throughout the year to offer our loyal customers a reason to visit our centres, and attract new customers to our stores. Many independent book and toy retailers already offer exciting free events in order to reach new customers and create theatre in their shops to improve footfall, and this should be encouraged. What toy categories do you currently offer, and what’s working particularly well with you customers? We offer a broad range of toys and kids’ products in our garden centres. We have been working cooperatively with many new toy suppliers over the last 18 months to introduce new ranges to our stores. We have done particularly well with pocket money toys, wooden toys and arts & crafts. We are really excited to be launching our new transactional Elmer wooden pull-along website later this
year which will
Animal puzzle train
include a select toy range. We are aiming to launch the best garden and horticulture website in the UK. How did toys perform over Christmas? Do you find there are other seasonal peaks in toy sales outside of the festive period? Wyevale Garden Centres have had a couple of years of fantastic growth within the toy department and the Christmas period was no exception. We have many customers visit our centres over the Christmas period, but we also get really busy in the spring when our customers start to get back into their gardens following the winter period. How important is licensed product to your offering? Roughly how much of your total toys do they represent, and what licences in particular work well for you? We offer a small and select range of licensed toys in most stores with our larger centres offering a broader range. We have a very specific amount of space dedicated to toys dependent upon the grade of store. So we have to ensure that we can maximise our sales and profit within the space, by selecting licensed products that will deliver these expectations. Do you think it’s important to maintain a distinct balance between licensed and non-licensed toys?
Tractor Ted
®
In partnership with
....the Tractor sensation that’s gripping the nation Tractor Ted on TV!
See us at:
Stand No: 5F28
Real Life Farm Discovery and Adventure Tel: 01373 834500 • www.tractorted.co.uk
Tractor Ted has signed a commercial partnership with Nick Jr. and is showcasing 30-sec and 60-sec promotional clips across the Nick Jr. network! This is a major new partnership for Tractor Ted with the first 3-months already demonstrating a significant referral from both the TV clips and the Nick Jr. digital platform.
“I’ve just seen Tractor Ted on Nick Jr. Wow! So great to see these mini promotional clips on TV introducing the real life farming DVDs that we love so much as a family. Thank you Tractor Ted!” Mrs Spencer, Somerset
Wyevale interview It is really important to Wyevale Garden Centres to offer a great selection of toys for all ages groups, genres and prices, which include licensed and nonlicensed toys. Do you have any suppliers that you work particularly closely with, bringing their products to a new retail market? We work very closely with many toy and gift suppliers, many of whom are new. We are the largest garden centre group in the UK with 152 centres and continue to grow our store base. It’s an exciting time to work at Wyevale Garden Centres, and many of our suppliers are enjoying the fruits of our rapid expansion. We work with our suppliers on business plans to maximise opportunities which include new and exclusive products, great promotions and selling exciting toys.
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GREAT VISUAL MERCHANDISING TECHNIQUES ARE REALLY IMPORTANT IN OUR KIDS’ DEPARTMENTS
”
What would you most like to find here this year? We are on the lookout for new toy ranges and products that would resonate with our customers. Are you looking to add new categories to your offering? If so, what and why? Or are you looking to build on tested categories you know work well? We have only been serious about toys for 18 months, so we have learnt a lot about what sells and what our customers like to buy from our centres. The only constraint to adding further categories to our offering is space in our centres. We often trial products or ranges in larger centres before making any decisions.
Alphabet puzzle caterpillar
ALL NEW AR TECHNOLOGY come by stand g20 to see the products being demonstrated and the dinsoaurs coming to life! dinosaurs
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Visit - www.ggtrade.co.uk
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The Sales Partnership Distributors Ltd Ancastle House Gravel Hill Henley on Thames RG9 1TP Tel: 01491 412415 Fax: 01491 412915 Contact Name - James Triptree
SPOTLIGHT ON MAGIC BOX Check out Star Monsters, the latest collectable toy from Magic Box Int Toys, the company behind Zomlings & Gogo’s Crazy Bones. You’ll find them on Esdevium’s Stand E109
Launching 4 February 2016 with huge marketing support: 00+ UK TVRs 1000+ (4-9) 4- ) 4-9)
Collect and Play – huge range of games to play
72 characters to collect including special rare Gold, Silver and Evolution editions
Digital and social media paign campaign
Pop Channel sponsorship
Esdevium Games will be showcasing the product at Toy Fair on Stand E109. They will be offering some show exclusive introductory offers and discounts, this includes a great FSDU offer.
Da Dailyy M Mail p omotion promotion
Wide product range and low pocket money pricing – RRP’s start at just £1
The BIG Interview
Real-life toy story
Stand Galler : 210 y
Uffe Kloster, the commercial director of Playmobil, talks 2015 sales, the latest hospital theme and what it takes to really stand out at Toy Fair
I
t’s the biggest toy show in the UK and Uffe Kloster from Playmobil is looking forward to showing off their new toys. “It’s great for us to be able to showcase the new launches for the year ahead in such a fun and exciting way,” he said. “We launch around two hundred new products every year, so this requires a lot of space and Toy Fair gives us this opportunity. The fact that it is so well-attended by independent and national accounts alike makes this a fantastic show.” Having most of the main manufacturers under one roof is also beneficial for Playmobil. “It gives us a springboard into the year that would be difficult to replicate on our own,” he says. “The organisation of set-up, breakdown and the show itself is always handled very well
and in a professional manner too, which has probably secured its longevity to this point.” Playmobil saw its best sales year so far in 2015 and they also launched their Super 4 range of product, bringing the fantastic TV series to life.
Evergreen ranges “Our evergreen ranges always prove very popular,” revealed Uffe, “and with the new Fire and Knights ranges launching in 2015, they performed well. One surprise launch was the Preschool range to build on our City Life category. “The Fire and Knights ranges in particular are synonymous with Playmobil as a brand so we are always quietly optimistic about their performances.
The BIG Interview
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“The essence of the Playmobil brand is detailed products depicting real life situations, so the Preschool plays right into these values, which is why we believe this was also successful.” Playmobil has a mix of old favourites including Pirates, Zoo and Farm plus some new themes based around Adventure Treehouse and City Cleaning. “The ranges are made up of the usual mix of small pocket money products, all the way up to large boxed items great for birthdays and Christmas,” says Uffe. “One of the most-requested ranges children ask for is a new hospital, and I’m pleased to announce that there will be a new medical theme for 2016.”
THE DETAIL IN OUR TOY SETS IS ONE ELEMENT THAT GETS STRONGER EVERY YEAR, AND 2016 IS NO EXCEPTION
Young fans’ requests At their research and development department back in Germany, the company employs eighty designers. They get some of their ideas from requests sent in by young fans and they also work on refreshing popular ideas. “There is also a huge wealth of experience within the team, which means that they know what works and
what can be improved,” said Uffe. “The detail in our sets is one element that gets stronger every year, and 2016 is no exception.” Playmobil bases its evergreen ranges on everyday situations, as well as historical themes taught within the National Curriculum. “Emergency services are always popular,” said Uffe, “and with the new Hospital theme launching this year, we now have a full offering of Fire, Police, Medical and Coast Guard. “Knights and Pirates are other ranges, which prove very popular amongst boys and girls alike, and the new Pirates theme for 2016 is bolder and more exciting than ever.” There are hundreds of stands at Toy Fair and so it is necessary to stand out. “Our brand is all about having fun, and we try to have fun with everything we do,” said Uffe. “Our Toy Fair stand is no
We asked… Playmobil saw its best sales year so far in 2015 and they also launched their Super 4 range of product, bringing the fantastic TV series to life. “Our evergreen ranges always prove very popular,” revealed Uffe, “and with the new Fire and Knights ranges launching in 2015, they performed well. One surprise launch was the preschool range to build on our City Life category.
“
EMERGENCY SERVICES ARE ALWAYS POPULAR AND WITH THE NEW HOSPITAL THEME LAUNCHING THIS YEAR, WE NOW HAVE A FULL OFFERING OF FIRE, POLICE, MEDICAL AND COAST GUARD
different and we take great care to ensure that it is as eye-catching and fun as possible. “We have such a great team that are constantly improving, add to this a product range that gets brighter and more exciting every year, and you have a winning result. Our team of designers and builders in Germany know how to make the most from any space, and we think this year’s stand is the best yet.
in production and logistics happening at the head offices in Germany, aim to make working with Playmobil even easier in the long run.” In a bid to give shops something fun to offer for their local area, Playmobil is running roadshows. “Customers should get in contact should they want to run an event and if we can fit it into our schedules, we will be there.” Uffe gets pleasure from his company’s products: “My favourite would be the Playmobil Pirate Ship — the new one looks amazing.” Pushed to name another toy he likes, he said, “I have always loved die-cast model cars in all shapes and sizes.”
Roadshows Uffe continued: “We are a heritage brand with a lot of love and experience of the toy industry. Having a tight-knit team in the UK we are all here to help our customers sell more and ultimately prosper. The investments
r u o h t i w c i g a M s t e e M e ! l e Scienc e h W r u o l o C s ’ n o t w e N Y Y Y Y Y Y
Educational Fun Value for money Pocket money High margin Great service.
We have been suppliers to the schools and school wholesale market since 2008 and are now ready to offer retailers the same great service with a brand, new, fun educational line in attractive retail packaging. Newton’s Colour Wheel by Education Harbour Ltd is the first of a range of science meets magic products that we will be introducing.
Visit us at GH40 The Toy Fair call free on 0800 756 9788 or visit www.educationharbour.com
On Trend
Gold STEM Collection Stargazer Lottie Doll Lottie Dolls (Arklu)
Barbie Heart Princess Dress & Mini Me Amscan International
Stand: B75 Amscan has added to its licensed Barbie costume collection for 2016 with five new outfits including the Barbie Heart Princess dress complete with a matching Barbie doll.
Stand: B135 Stargazer Lottie became the first doll in space recently, having travelled to the International Space Station with British astronaut Tim Peake. Stargazer Lottie comes with her own telescope, and collectable solar system cards and aims to make astronomy more accessible, teaching children about the solar system and notable women in space in a fun way.
Looking for...
DOLLS Minimondo Asobi
Stand: Gallery 124 Each Minimondos character has a distinctive personality, a unique sense of style and expression, and a diverse heritage. Asobi want to encourage children to embrace their own, and each others, individuality in a fun way.
Dolls are perennial favourites but there’s always something new around. Check out the latest lovelies at Toy Fair
Lori Dolls & Accessories Halilit
Stand: E90 Lori Dolls are a gorgeous range of 15cm softbodied fashion dolls ideal for the youn younger child. The collection also includes beautifully des designed outfits and accessories, an urban living dolls’ house, furniture sets, a convertible car and a Glamper, encouraging a whole world of discovery and role play play.
Cicciobello Sunny Flair
Stand: E39
Little Love Cuddle and Care VTech
Stand: Gallery 500 Two years after VTech’s entry on the market the company is unveiling its latest arrivals to the Little Love family with Little Love Cuddle And Care, who joins Little Love Baby Peek-a-Boo and Little Love Learn to Walk.
Cicciobello Sunny has eyes, hair and is fully articulated, like other dolls, but there’s one things this doll has that is unique — the ability to tan. Take Cicciobello outside and when he’s exposed to light his skin will take on a golden tone. Although Cicciobello Sunny is meant for fun and his colour-changing properties are exciting to children, he comes with a serious message too, and opens up a valuable discussion between child and parent about their own sun care regime.
FUN AND GAMES NOT TO BE MISSED!
STAND
E69
Meet
JUSTIN FLETCHER Star of Justin’s House & Something Special
SEE OUR FABULOUS NEW RANGES!
™
© 2016 Ragdoll
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ted/DHX Worldwi
Productions Limi
N U F E H T JOIN IN
BBC logo © BBC 1996. Licensed by BBC Worldwide Limited. MR TUMBLE SOMETHING SPECIAL logo mark™© BBC 2016.
Give Duggee a hug
A Ltd © Studio AK TM EE and HEY DUGG rldwide. by BBC Wo Licensed
t a d e p p a n s s e d o B b d d O h t the o o b o t pho
2016.
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e l i m S n e r d l i h C Making since 1979
Licensee Spotlight Stand: Gallery 400
Bigger and better than ever before Nikki Samuels, Licensing Director at the e award-winning Sambro, Samb tells us why this year is going to be his company’s best yet
N
ikki Samuels’ company Sambro could not have had a better 2015. “We were named Nickelodeon Licensee of the Year 2015 and were recognised by Hasbro for our development and innovation,” Nikki told Daily News. “In addition we won a prestigious NorthWest Business Insider award for being International Company of the Year and our Financial Director also received an industry award. To top it off, NPD named us the UK’s fastest-growing toy company — a stat we intend to build upon in 2016.” Sambro has in fact moved to a bigger stand at this year’s fair so that they can showcase even more of their licensed ranges. Nikki said: “Visitors can see our brand-new licensed collections including Finding Dory, Little Tikes, Tsum Tsum, Trolls and more. As well as brand-new licensed ranges we have also added to many of our existing and supremely popular ranges including PAW Patrol, Frozen, Disney Princesses, Minions and more. “As most people will now know we offer licensed products across many different categories and our new stand allows us to show complete ranges. Therefore, visitors can expect to cherry pick key products to create their own bespoke licensed offering.” Sambro had some great
successes in 2015 including Paw Patrol, Minions ns and of course Frozen, which hich continues apace. “This year, we have a wide array of new licences which ch are all set for success cess including Finding Dory, Tsum Tsum, Blaze,, Secret Life of Pets and Trolls,” said Nikki. “Our bag category continues to perform beyond all expectations and our innovation means that lines are not only extensive but are also constantly refreshed.” Nikki continues: “We are very fortunate at Sambro as the team we have is just unbelievable. The design team work tirelessly getting to know each and every licence so that they can get to grips with each property. This ensures that our products are both unique and innovative. “Having just opened our new larger showroom in Hong Kong and relocated key staff there, we are able to manage the design process from start to finish and have developed our own tooling which allows us to replicate successful lines across different licences.” The company is known for its arts and craft ranges and has other extremely strong categories including games, wooden puzzles, wheeled toys, stationery, bags and pocket money toys. Sambro pride themselves on their longstanding working relationships with some of the biggest licensors in the industry. Nikki said: “We work hard to
delive deliver products that reflec ect characters and brand brands perfectly and by us using high-quality ma materials, getting pro product to market qu quickly, offering mar marketing and PR suppo support, we are able to con continue successful part partnerships.” O One of Sambro’s maj major deals is with Nic Nickelodeon as “they are extremely supportive and are really responsive to our ideas as we share the same vision. We want to bring all of their brilliant characters to life and ultimately drive sales and brand awareness”. Manufacturers and wholesalers do not exist in a vacuum. Deals are important. “We want to make the retailer’s experience of Sambro as seamless as possible and provide a high level of customer service from initial order to the product on shelf. We offer realtime online ordering and have stock on the floor so retailers can keep shelves replenished. We also create bespoke POS materials to help drive sales and provide PR support to drive footfall and raise brand awareness. “We have created a number of crosscategory FSDUs for retailers, which have proved extremely successful at key selling periods.” Finally, we put Nikki on the spot by asking him his favourite from his own stock: “I love the Minions and the Minions Character 3D Erasers are a fantastic pocket money line. The attention to detail paid by our designers in this product alone is really clear to see and that makes me really proud.”
Visitors i i to the stand can come and expect to cherry pick key products to create their own bespoke licensed offering
WIN Win 25 FREE 25 FREE BrainBoxes BrainBoxes
x o B n i a Br * ! e g n e l Chal
For every 25 BrainBoxes y tr n e e n o e iv e c e r l ’l u o y ordered, ! w a r d e iz r p ly th n o m a into • From 1st January to 31st December 2016! • The winner, drawn at the end of each month receives 25 FREE BrainBoxes of their choice! • The challenge starts afresh each month - 12 chances to win! We can provide free sales support: • POS • Giant display BrainBoxes • Posters • Window stickers • BrainBox promo packs • Assisted demo days
For more information visit us on stand E15 Call: 01494 538999 Email: davidh@greenboardgames.com ... the makers of
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NEWS
E E F F COREAK B
Vivid reveals all new TB3 with Smoke Tech
with... Rena Nathanson
Seeing smoke coming from the Vivid stand? Don’t worry, it’s not on fire, it’s just the all new Supersize Thunderbird 3 playset which comes with launch smoke technology! This 48cm rocket has 3 play modes: launch, flight and drill and with built in flight technology, TB3 automatically knows when you’ve switched modes. With over 30 actions, lights and sounds – this playset is packed full of features and sure to be at the top of any Thunderbirds fans wish list. Blast off into space and leave a trail of smoke in your wake at stand B70
Rena, firstly, congratulations! Bananagrams are celebrating 10 years at London Toy Fair. Is it too much to call this a momentous occasion for the company? Thank you! It is indeed a momentous occasion! We never in our wildest dreams imagined just quite how successful Bananagrams would be when we invented it all those summers ago! I am sure my father (who passed away five years ago) is smiling down on us all. Hopefully he is proud of the journey the brand is on.
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We are manufacturers looking for a distributor. We have one new arts and crafts product and we’ve found the show incredibly useful. We’re totally new to the toy industry and this is our first ever toy far!
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And, of course, you’re celebrating with some bubbles on your stand today. Tell us a little about that? We just really wanted to thank all of those people who helped us along the way – all the loyal retailers, journalists and partners that have given us unwavering support. So may I take this opportunity to say thank you to the many Bananagrams supporters out there, even if you aren’t available to have a glass of bubbly with us, you are very dear to our hearts!
Bananagrams
Stand E115 What are your top three hero products at Toy Fair this year? We’re unveiling two brand new games on the stand this year – My First Bananagrams is for ages three and above, it sees the iconic pouch in a ripening shade of green! It has lower case tiles, an array of curriculum-based games for young readers and unique double-tiles with vowel teams, word families and digraphs. Bananagrams Party is an exciting new edition with 13 Party Power tiles – as players race to complete their word grid, they face challenges and forfeits, which add an energetic new dimension to the game. Our revamped ZIP IT game is proving really popular – it’s the no-space word race, compact enough to play on an airplane tray table. It really can be played almost anywhere so is a great travel word game for all ages. How were UK sales for Bananagrams in 2015? UK sales were tremendous last year. We’re fortunate that there’s still plenty of room for growth with our brand and we’re always looking at new avenues to raise further awareness and new partners to work with to increase our audience.
Peter Roma, Kay Roma, Giselle Tab, Alessandro Fabrizio of Ander Klein Associates
L I A T E R RNER CO with... Su Gill Morley Group
“We have eight department stores in and around London and our new one in Borehamwood, Camp Hopson, that we bought last year. I’m looking for any newness that leaps out from current suppliers and what they have new for this year. Magformers looks very interesting because construction is very strong and it makes a change that it’s not a complete clone of other construction kits already out there. For us it really is construction that’s selling well and Star Wars is very good too, as is Shopkins and all the licences. My favourite so far — although it is quite early still is Sophie La Girafe that 1 Two Kids have, there are some really nice gifting sets which look very sweet. And I’ve been on LEGO which is amazing — I know it’spredictable to say but their stuff is so good.”
Milly and Flynn are exhibiting in stand B115 where Alison Lakin is excited to be promoting their Limited Edition range; “It is Beatrix Potter’s 150 year anniversary, and to celebrate we are launching a limited edition Beatrix Potter Race Game.” They are also promoting their well-known brands of Peppa Pig, Winnie the Pooh and Snowman and the Dog at their stand. Their new ranges include lift-the-flap puzzles, which offer more than a normal puzzle, as they tell a story once made. Most of their toys are aimed for ages 12-18 months.
What is the best thing about Toy Fair?
“The vibrancy and exuberance of the toy industry all in one place.” Mitch Levene, Managing Director, Chicco
New To Toy Fair Stand Gallery 340
Stacking the Track Product designer Carl Tatum has created a toy unlike any other. Daily News went to see him to find out more...
M
any inventions don’t actually need inventing. While there is nothing wrong with something that is entirely decorative, if it is functional so much the better. Carl Tatum has created a device that is actually useful. He tells us: “Put simply, it’s a storage system for die-cast toy cars with an integral interlinking ramp. “Years ago, you would get carry cases for toys which were just moulded plastic trays. My tray holds five cars in individual storage bays. I have a 90-degree ramp from the top to the bottom. If you put them together correctly, you can create a helter-skelter. There is one design for the tray but you can
stack an infinite amount of trays. In the past trays were just for storage; they didn’t have ramps. “I thought it would be a good idea to put a ramp in to link them up. I had the idea when
I was a kid but I didn’t act on it until my profession made that possible.” Carl, 39, has had interest from major toy car manufacturers for his invention. He is not surprised: “When children get hold of it they love it, they love the fact that they can put cars down a ramp. When they learn how to build the tower, at two or three, they want to get as many trays together and build it as high as they can. “It has a high playability factor; it’s quite addictive. “Before we just used to throw all the cars into a drawer, on top of one another, scratching all the paintwork. What is Carl’s background? How did he come up with the idea? “I’m a product designer. I’ve worked for eighteen years in automotive product design. “My wife calls me a car designer but as someone in the business I know there is no such thing as a car designer. “There is a team of 2,000 people designing any car. “I’ve worked at some quite nice companies because I am good at my job. I was working for a sports car company at Woking and when there I got quite heavily into 3D printing. “I made prototype parts for the cars. Then I realised I could get my invention printed for about a hundred quid. I designed it in Cad, which is what I do and printed off five or six trays. “I made my daughter a little tray for her toy
cars and my wife said I should go and see a patent lawyer. They told me it was an original idea and said I should patent it, which is what I did. “I can now license or since I have had a tool made I can produce it myself.” The toy tray will get its first public airing at Toy Fair. Carl said: “It’ll be fun. I have ave no expectations of what the future will be. It’s t’s what I do for a living so it’s a bit of a punt. nt. “I have three objectives for or the show: firstly, I’d like to license nse it to a big toy company like e Corgi or Mattel. “Or, I’d be interested in wholesalers or a chain of toy oy shops to take the product and brand it as theirs. “My third option is to set up an online store and sell it myself. “I’m having packaging made ade by a company in Bury St Edmunds unds for the show.” Whichever route Carl Tatum um takes his tray, we wouldn’t bet against seeing g them in the shops in time for Christmas.
Great new
branding for 2016
All new Peppa Pig learning toys coming
summer 2016!
Making a splash with the latest game Discovery Kids - © 2015 DCL. Shopkins © 2016 MOOSE Enterprise. WET HEAD™ is a trademark of Zing © 2016 Zing. Trademarks and patents pending. All Rights Reserved. Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.
sensation!
New
Buildable figures & play-sets from The Bridge Direct.
www.trendsuk.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1295 768078
E-mail: info@trendsuk.co.uk
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Character Options’ Mark Hunt
Anne-Marie Noon of Flair
Anthony Temple of Rainbow Designs
On the small screen Catch up with TnP TV. We’re back at Toy Fair! Toys ’n’ Playthings’ stand, E1, was a hive of activity yesterday as TnP TV made a glorious return to Toy Fair, marking one year since it launched. Host Mirella Anstey interviewed a slew of well-known toy industry faces during the day as she caught up on their hottest new products, ones to watch for autumn/winter, and learned all about their top news, views, latest licences and upcoming trends. There will be more filming today so make sure to wave for the camera.
Farel Williams of DKL
Tobar’s David Airey
NEWS
E E F F COREAK B
with... Guy Orr
Make Time 2 Play sponsors show foyer Campaign promotes importance and benefits of play The Make Time 2 Play campaign is very excited to be sponsoring the foyer at this year’s Toy Fair. Set up by the British Toy & Hobby Association in 2010, the campaign promotes the importance of play in the healthy development and well-being of children as well as highlighting the positive role of toys. Through a fun and vibrant transformation of the foyer, Make Time 2 Play aims to promote the many different benefits of play to the wider toy industry as a way of encouraging more of the industry to get involved. “We are delighted that Make Time 2 Play is sponsoring the foyer this year at Toy Fair. It’s the perfect opportunity for us to promote the true value of play and emphasise the important role that the toys here at Toy Fair have in providing children with a natural way of learning – as well as just being fun. “The fantastic space in the foyer has allowed us to promote this message via an animated and entertaining entrance for visitors to enjoy before they enter the world of play that is Toy Fair,” said Natasha Crookes, the Director of Communications The Make Time 2 Play team for the BTHA. pictured in the foyer “The more children play, the more life skills they learn that will stay with them into adulthood, from increasing fitness and improving communication and creativity to building social skills and resilience. The really great news is that access to toys and playthings has been shown to lengthen the time that children spend playing – which gives them longer to pick up the vital skills they need to develop. In addition, playing with different types of toys encourages different types of benefits. “For example, children learn spatial skills that can aid in their learning of maths and engineering while playing with building blocks or build up the fine motor skills they will need to hold a pen and learn to write while playing with their first crayons. “Make Time 2 Play highlights these benefits while providing daily tips and play ideas to parents and carers via a free mobile app, Facebook page and website. The campaign is supported by numerous media companies including; Disney, Nickelodeon, Sky, ITV, Cartoon Network, Boomerang, Turner, Pop, Tiny Pop, Cartoonito, Digital Cinema Media and Milkshake, who all generously donate free airtime to Make Time 2 Play to run the adverts on TV and cinema. “Thank you for the support from these companies in promoting the messages to parents.”
Mookie Stand E149
How are you diversifying, Guy? We have done a couple of things, we’ve picked up new distribution lines. This has allowed us to go into new categories. We’ve spent a lot of money on our product development with the purpose of branching out. It’s a combination of working with other people who are experts in different fields within the categories. This grows us and enables us to develop product. We’ve had a great deal of success with 3D Magic which followed this model. What’s your hero product for 2016? We’ve got two crazy lines – one of the them is Kazooloo, the wild augmented reality product. The second one is the Big Robots. If you remember Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em, the old school manual fighting robots, this is basically them with a huge boost – they’re free moving and remote control. As you
punch, they will punch, they mimic your actions and are very good fun. With the Scuttlebug, the Disney license is new. Will you do more in the future? Not too many, not on the bugs. I think it’s quite limited but we are looking to grow our licensing business a little bit in other ways. What is your focus at Toy Fair? Showcasing products and entertaining customers - we’ve got a barman kicking off in a minute! I tend to think Toy Fair is more about spending time with your customers and getting to know them. Getting everyone together and telling them what we’ve been doing and what we’re going to do, but in a fun and interactive way. What’s your favourite brew? Espresso with Baileys!
What is the best thing about Toy Fair? “Our new Shuffle additions - Subbuteo and Twister - fantastic fun for all the family as well as our expanded Snap range - we now have some great licensed Snap games which we know kids love.” Trudi Bishop, Head of Marketing and Licensing, Cartamundi
We asked... Miguel Pina Martins, CEO, Science4You The toy trade has had a strong few years by all accounts. What can we all do as an industry to ensure this winning streak continues in 2016? Innovation is this business’s soul. We believe that the key for success stands in the development of toys that follow the latest trends and in the brands that bear in mind its consumer’s wishes and fulfil theirs expectations.
Kirsten Chambers, Marketing Manager at IMC Toys is pictured on their stand E129 with award-winning feature plush Lucy The Dog.
NEWS Golingo Games GREENHOUSE STAND GH20 Peter Skinner was on a flight when he had a brilliant idea for a new game. He had no paper with him so had to jot his idea for Golingo on the only thing to hand — a sickbag. Golingo is a word tile boardgame that can be tailored for different age ranges. “The Toy Fair is the place to come to launch a game,” he says, “I’m hoping to find my dragon.”
Crayon Rocks GREENHOUSE GH35 ubby Crayon Rocks are st strengthen crayons designed to , in children’s pencil grip writing. preparation for hand d non-“They are organic an are made toxic, Crayon Rocks ara Lee’s on the creator Barb erica farm in Kentucky, Am ing do where they’ve been Sarah really well,” reports ny McCarthy, the compa director.
Green Elephant Trading GREENHOUSE GH31 “Our unique putty is made in the US by adults with learning difficulties; it’s been doing very well since being coming to the UK 18 months ago. It’s great for children and has been popular with adults as a tool for stress relief. The colours are customisable and can be drawn on with UV light,” said Nici Wilcox, the Managing Director.
icommerce Now GREENHOUSE GH6 icommerce Now is a retail software company, specialising in product interactivity. “Clients can send us ten products and we will process and create an interactive 360 view for online retail, displaying parts and providing sounds, this increases customer confidence and allows you to almost try before you buy,” said Joe Chandler, Digital Marketing Executive.
Destination board game GREENHOUSE GH13 The idea for the board game came to Rachel Lowe, when she was driving black cabs in London more than 10 years ago. Destination now has 25 editions including a new Christmas and Junior edition. “It’s done really well in Debenhams, John Lewis and WH Smith last Christmas, we want to build on that success,” she said.
tel. +44 (0)1628 488944 email sales@interplayuk.com
...toys and gifts designed to inspire
Fresh and appealing creative activities. All competitively priced for volume sales and good margins. margins
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Greenhouse Interview
A happy balance We talk to Simon Nickols, the founder of Nicko Toys, and find out why he started the company and why China is so important to him
In a nutshell, what’s the story behind Nicko Toys? I started Nicko Toys in 2014 after deciding I needed a new challenge. I loved the idea behind balance bikes and was confident their popularity would continue to grow. They are a fantastic way for children to learn how to balance on two wheels, and I’ve seen first-hand that they really do teach a child to progress straight on to a pedal bike without the need for stabilisers. I travelled to China with the intention of choosing a supplier to work with and came back with two
Stand GH63 :
new suppliers, one for balance bikes and another that specialised in higherend bikes and a beautiful selection of sustainably-made wooden toys. Since then it’s been a busy year and a half, and 2016 promises to have lots more in store, starting with our first Toy Fair attendance.
This is the first time you’ve exhibited at Toy Fair, why have you chosen to come here in 2016? In 2015 we exhibited at a couple of other major shows, and Toy Fair was
TOY FAIR STAND F101
Nicko Toys Simon Nickols, founder & Managing Director the next logical step. Our complete range of bikes and toys will be on display so we’re excited to get our range in front of so many potential new customers.
What are you hoping to get out of the show? We’re still relatively new to the industry so the aim of the show for us is to gain exposure of our products and hopefully introduce ourselves to many potential new customers, both for the wooden balance bikes and the smaller wooden toys we offer.
Greenhouse Interview
Nicko Toys specialise in balance bikes and wooden toys and have already expanded into clocks, bamboo puzzles and musical toys, and beach sets, what’s next?
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I HAVE A GREAT AFFECTION FOR OUR STANDARD BALANCE BIKES AS THEY ARE THE PRODUCT I LAUNCHED THE BUSINESS WITH
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This year we will launch a new style of balance bike. It’s a bike with a reversible frame meaning the height of the saddle can vary greatly, from low to the floor for short legs, to a higher saddle than other balance bikes which will take the child straight to pedal bike age.
Currently which is your topselling item? Sales for our mini 2-in-1 bikes and standard balance bikes were remarkably similar in 2015, both exceeded our forecast. As balance bike
popularity grows the market grows, so we are keen to stay ahead of the curve and keep introducing new designs and styles.
Which is your personal favourite Nicko product — and why? I have a great affection for our standard balance bikes as they are the product I launched the business with – and they’re the bike my son has been whizzing around on ever since he was big enough for them. I particularly love our 2-in-1 mini balance bikes. They’re smaller than a normal balance bike making them suitable for toddlers, and the fact they can first be set up as a trike and later converted to a bike allows them to be used from a really young age.
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NEWS
Vivid’s
Crayola Quiz:
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Our lead line is Crazy Cafe which is brand-new and the official launch is here. You get to pull the tablecloth out from under the crockery which is great fun. There will be TV advertising for autumn-winter 2016. Tactic, Valentine Wicks, Stand D109
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See the rainbow!
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I do usually have colour in my hair but it works particularly well for the show as I’m with Rainbow! This is our Whizz-Popping BFG toy
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Liz Price, Area Sales Manager North East, Rainbow Designs, Stand E120
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We have lots of licensed wheeled toys, Finding Dory, Paw Patrol, Shopkins, Avengers Assemble, that are launching here and we have our own brand range of Electrik scooters. Stefanie Millward, Lauren Foulds, Nicky Hall, Melissa Hockley and Charlie Howarth, MV, Stand B30
e Mega Bounce It’s the global launch of th — usually we launch balls and the Sky Spinners year later but for these a y all ob gl en th re he em th her. two we’re doing it altoget
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Mark Holland, Wicked Toys,
”
Stand E60
What is your favourite Toy Fair moment?
Our glass-topped floor display creates many funny moments watching visitors step on it unaware, then panicking with looks of horror thinking it might break… it is safe to walk on! Simon Prest, Sales Director, Orchard Toys
250+TVRS
Peppa Pig Š Astley Baker Davies Ltd /Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.
NEWS We asked…
Sharon Willcocks Darlington Trading Co, Devon
The toy trade has had a strong few years by all accounts. What can we all do as an industry to ensure this winning streak continues in 2016?
“I’m a very traditional toy shop so don’t go with TV-advertised stuff, it’s the new and unique things I’m looking for. I’ve found a couple of things but I’m keeping them under my hat for now. We do really well with art and craft and have the Steiner School nearby so I’ve been looking for that and I’ve been in the Green House and will go back - I’m here for the long haul today and back agin tomorrow.”
“Innovation is key. Our target audience has increasingly sophisticated tastes especially with the unrelenting advances in tech toys, therefore we as an industry have to continue to create engaging entertaining products. I think licences are also extremely important and popular properties can really drive sales.” Nikki Samuels, Director, SAMBRO
5 things about… Thames & Kosmos Stand: G60 1. It’s a T&K tradition to have a Beer & Steak Night at each of the trade fairs they visit. 2. They haven’t had an employee leave the company … yet. 3. Their office and showroom is on a trading estate surrounded by a pheasant shoot farm in rural Kent … but they are planning on moving soon. 4. Their UK demonstrator Brad Gross, who they met at a UK science centre, was born in Providence, Rhode Island, US, which is where Thames & Kosmos was founded. Brad’s brother grew up with Ted McGuire — the founder’s son and their current US MD. 5. They have more skeletons than staff in their office.
L I A T RERNER CO Jim Gray
What are your top products this year? “We’ve pushed the boat out this year with multiple new licences and two new brands. Finding Dory, Shopkins, Teletubbies and PAW Patrol are all highly sought after and sit alongside firm favourites such as Thomas, Peppa, Star Wars, Avengers and Batman. “Our new Electrick range of electric scooters boards and other ride ons has been very well received and we will also showcase our new Twista scooter range.” Phil Ratcliffe, Sales and Marketing Director, MV Sports
A1 Toys Silverburn, Glasgow
Do you do a lot of buying or planning for the year ahead at the show?
but it became popular again because of social media.
Yes I do. A lot of the stuff we are being shown is not out yet; it’s more of what will be available over the year. We take advantage of any offers and deals that are available.
Any licences or products you are really looking forward to seeing?
Which stands are you excited about going to? Ones that impress, nearly always LEGO. We started off years ago as a comic shop so a lot of our roots are in superhero stuff. What I am really hoping for this year is that stand–out toy, someone taking a chance and making something different. Last year, everyone wanted Snow Glow Elsa. Pie Face was also popular. It had been out for a while
I have three kids – two girls and a boy – so I try to look for toys through their eyes. When I see something I think if my wee girl has been talking about this or is it something she would play with, or has it been on TV?
Best thing about Toy Fair? Everything being in one place. The downside is that there is never enough time to see everything. You are on your way to one stand and then something catches your eye and you get distracted.
Discover more with Amscan... ts! a r g Con
Come & see us on stand:
B75 TEL: +44 (0)1908 288 500 E-MAIL: sales@amscan-uk.co.uk WEB: www.amscan.co.uk ©Amscan 2016, ©Anagram 2016 All rights reserved
Distributor Focus
: d n Sta66 E
Quality street A byword for quality brands, DKL returns to its most important show of the year with a phenomenal cross-category portfolio. We caught up with David Allan, the Sales and Marketing Director, to find out more about the company’s 2016 launches and more Husband and wife team Kai and Dorte Hawaleschka opened DKL Marketing Ltd for its first day of trading 26 years ago with one goal in mind: to distribute quality brands. With Trolls and Hama Beads, which is still a huge success for the distributor all these years later, the founders got off to a phenomenal start, and the company has grown into the industry stalwart it is today — those same founding principles still intact. “It is still a family owned company distributing quality brands to UK and Irish retailers,” David Allan, DKL’s Sales and Marketing Director, tells us. “With Kai as Managing Director, my role is to manage the whole sales and marketing function, liaising with key retailers and our suppliers.” The pair are always on the look out for fresh product, travelling the
world on the search for brands that scream quality and fit in with the portfolio. DKL returns to the Toy Fair show floor this year to showcase the best products across its range, and of course for visitors to meet the fantastic DKL team. “The show is a great PR opportunity to showcase and discuss and to plan for the year, of course a few orders would be gratefully received too,” David says. And how does David measure Toy Fair success? A longing for bed at the end of the day for one. “The best measure is that you have
“
THE SHOW IS A GREAT PR OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE AND DISCUSS AND TO PLAN FOR THE YEAR, OF COURSE A FEW ORDERS WOULD BE GRATEFULLY RECEIVED
”
been busy all day. We look at the number of visitors to our stand, the opportunities and the follow up but if you are not tired you have not been busy.” Brilliant brands Hama Beads is a jewel in DKL’s quality crown, a creative brand that offers a huge range of bead sets and accessories. “It is our leading brand and has been with DKL from the start, enjoying growth year on year,” David explains. “In fact, nearly all retailers will have a Hama offering.” DKL has been building the
Distributor Focus
trusted image of Hama since launching with it in 1989, offering consumers a broad variety of craft opportunities and play patterns. “And now with the launch of the Hama App,” David says, “we see even further growth this year.” Other stalwarts in the DKL stable include Breyer Model Horses, Miniland, and the recently introduced Scentco Scented Stationery, Scratch, and Playmais ranges — and there’s lots of new additions to these brands to get excited about at Toy Fair. For 2016, Breyer Model Horses will bring the biggest range of horses, accessories, and craft kits across different sizes and price points. “The detail in these items for the price offers great perceived value and for 2016 there has been significant price decreases to grow the range in the toy market.” From educational brand Miniland, David tells us that the range is designed for consumers to teach their children key educational subjects while having fun, all at a good price point.
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As with all DKL ranges, Miniland brings additional perceived value. “Each set has an additional selling feature of a parent book,” David says. “Another unique feature, Play Miniland, is a website that covers Miniland products where additional play boards and information can be downloaded for free.” A recent, and hugely popular, addition to the DKL line-up is Scentco Scented Stationery, which debuted with a soft launch in June 2015. “The reaction has been amazing,” David explains, admitting that the whole team was a little blindsided by the impact it had on the market. “I just did not bring in enough stock but it is a nice position to be in! “As we go into 2016 with a full range of generic and licensed product, we know from reactions that this range is going to be one of our top ones. Scentco just keeps on growing the range so we are constantly evolving the range. We met with the owner a year ago and he has so much drive, which can be seen by the growth in the ranges already.”
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Why is Toy Fair so important to you? “The London Toy Fair offers every exhibitor the chance to meet UK buyers from all sectors. It is always well attended and the size of shows allows for visitors to go to all sizes of stands. DKL will always be at the London Toy Fair, it is the most important show of our calendar year to showcase all our ranges and from this show we can decide on our strategies for the year.” David Allan, DKL
All DKL brands must have… Quality Brand awareness Perceived value
MULTI AWARD
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Come and see us at BTHA OLYMPIA E10
info@letoyvan.com
www.letoyvan.com
0208 979 2036
Did you know... ToyFair will be the official global launch of 14 new Magformers, bringing the total UK product range to more than 60.
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1. Tomy’s staff are always smiling — their mission is to make the world smile. 2. Tomy has a heritage of developing innovative toys and marketing to surprise and delight. 3. Tomy’s evergreen toys stand the test of time and are beloved by children and parents of all ages. 4. The award-winning toys and top brands are recognised for everything from quality to innovation to longevity. 5. There will be biscuits on the Tomy stand!
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Sticking to learning values and fun Orchard Toys Stand B12 Leading educational games and jigsaws manufacturer Orchard Toys is excited to announce a new range of colouring, sticker and activity books, which will be launched at London Toy Fair 2016. Designed with education in mind, the books feature bold, engaging illustrations of familiar Orchard Toys characters, uncluttered pages for children to work through step-by-step and clear learning goals and activities. Every book also includes a sheet of colourful stickers to use in activities and they have been tested in schools with children and teachers to ensure both learning values and fun factor are at the forefront. The colouring books range has numerous educational benefits, helping to improve manual dexterity, encourage creativity and link with early learning goals. Great for on the go or in a home enviro environment, Orchard Toys’ colouring book range is a pra practical, travel-friendly addition to the range of learning games and jigsaws. company’s ra
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6227 Pop! Star Wars: Kylo Ren
2224 POP! Marvel: Captain America
6218 Pop! Star Wars: BB-8
6220 Pop! Star Wars: Rey
3780 Pop! Marvel : Spider-Man
5858 Pop! Harry Potter: Harry Potter
55860 Pop! Harry Potter: Hermione Granger Herm
5859 Pop! Harry Potter: Ron Weasley
2274 Pop! Marvel: Iron Man
COME VISIT US! BOOTH E130 Underground Toys all rights reserved. The information contained within this advert is the property of Underground Toys and is not permitted to be shared or distributed without permission.
NEWS Don’t you worry! Coiledspring Stand E35 Coiledspring’s popular Worry Eaters range is growing in 2016. Not only will six new additions join the plush family but there’s also a brand new collection of stationery and novelty items perfect for primary schoolaged boys and girls! Visitors to the show can also say hello to three brand-new Worry Eater plush characters. Pat, Sita and Lily are Classic Worry Eaters measuring 32-40cm, while characters Schnulli and Pom join the Junior Worry Eaters, measuring 22-24cm. For bigger worries comes giant Flint, measuring 97cm!
E E F F COREAK B
with... Miguel Pina Martins Science4you founder & CEO
Stand: Gallery 199 How excited are you about the 2016 Toy Fair?
product from the range and why do you like it?
We’re very excited about Science4you’s participation at London Toy Fair! This is a huge opportunity for us to reveal our novelties for the year and also establish contacts with other representatives of the toy industry.
I am particularly a fan of the Chocolate Factory and I bet there’s one chocoholic in almost every family. Chocolate is universal and puts a smile on everyone’s face. Science4you’s latest Chocolate Factory is good for this and blends entertainment, joy and scientific knowledge not only for the kids but as well as for older ones.
What are your new product launches for the show and how many do you have?
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Science4you will launch ten new products at the fair, such as the Chocolate Factory, the Rocket Factory and the Explosive Science Kit.
What’s your personal hero
What licences have got you going for 2016? We’ll have the Discovery line and the University Of Oxford kit.
What’s your favourite brew? I really enjoy a cup of cinnamon and apple tea in the morning.
How many meetings do you schedule per day? I spend my time as wisely as I possibly can during Toy Fair. There are always too many things to do to fit into the three days and I have to be extremely selective with the amount of time I give any particular company, but business goes on once Toy Fair is over so I always chase things up with those I missed once I get back home afterwards. At the moment my busiest day has 25 appointments, so it is pretty full on. Brian Simpson, General Manager, SMF Toytown
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Did you know? Sales volume at Wild Card Games increased by more than 50 per cent in 2015 and sales value increased by significantly more. See them on Stand H20
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Ali Brown & Simon Prest Orchard Toys Stand B12 “Our trains are on time and stopping at Olympia today (Sunday)! We’d heard there were a few train issues here but not with our new Giant Railway Floor Jigsaw, that links with our Giant Road System. Everything works on our railway.”
Stand: E125
Wilton Bradley Stand E89 Mike Gascoigne and Phil Cumper: “We are one of the only UK companies to complete full UK testings for our hoverboards. There have been some issues with other versions, which were related to the batteries and charge but ours have Samsung lithium batteries, fuses and auto cut-offs.”
Andy Dittrich & Rene van de Geer
Sluban
Stand B49 “This is our third time here but we’re now out of the Green House for the first time, on a bigger stand. We have three new ranges that we’re launching with about 40 different sets. We moved so our new bigger stand would allow more customers on.”
Laura Ball Schleich
Stand B121 “We’ve taken our horse rse range out of what was historically ally a farmyard range and made it into to the Horse Club, which we’re launching unching this year, and we have the DC licence with the movie elements. Also new packaging for the he Horse Club, Dinosaurs, rs, Wildlife and Farmlife so giving each ach range it’s own identity and positioned ned them more appropriately. We’ve also just signed Marvel for the likes of Iron Man and Hulk. This is Vinnie the he Veloceraptor, it was good fun painting ting him yesterday! I had to get et down in my maternity jeans and crawl underneath him to spray paint him m so he matches the product. I got green een paint all over my jeans — but good d old baby wipes got it all off!”
NEWS
L I A T RERNER CO
with... Sarah & Alice Martin with...S Yellow Dot Nursery, Winchester
In numbers… Available in 27 languages and in 57 countries, over four million Green Board Games BrainBoxes have been sold!
In charity we trust Malcolm Naish, MD of Lema Publishing and Toys n Playthings magazine, tells us about some of the excellent fundraising work undertaken by the Fence Club Since the early 1950s, the Fence Club has been both raising money for deserving children’s charities and hospitals and in addition to the money raised, several hundred pallets of toys are distributed to hundreds of hospitals, hospices and children’s homes prior to Christmas. Much of this work goes unnoticed by much of the toy industry. In 2015 the Fence Club sent over £100,000 to many deserving recipients. The Fence Club has tended to support smaller charities and homes, believing that a few thousand pounds to pay for a swimming pool hoist, or perhaps a sensory garden goes a long way towards helping a little, but most deserving cause. Why was the Fence Club created in the first place? A group of like-minded toy people were dining back in the early fifties during the British Industries Fair (a pre-cursor to an individual toy fair). Realising that they all earned their living from the toy trade, it was discussed that surely they could find some way of putting something back, to help the less fortunate children within society. This may sound a little high-minded 60 plus years on, but try telling that to the many deserving kids homes, hospitals, schools and individual children with severe health problems that have enjoyed a better quality of life as a result of Fence Club generosity. If you have a charity or good cause in mind please contact Joe Kissane on joe@charactergroup.co.uk
‘The Fence Club has tended to support smaller charities and homes, believing that a few thousand pounds to pay for a swimming pool hoist, or perhaps a sensory garden goes a long way’
“We’re looking for toys that children can use creatively rather than just have one purpose so we saw one stand where they have a Dorothy puppet with a Tinman and the others. We are looking for a boy puppet and a girl puppet with accessories today they might be Dorothy and the Tinman but tomorrow the children want to make them someone else. We do like wooden toys, more the natural look and things we can put in the garden or in the sand and water tray. We want the natural look for the garden rather than all the plastic but it’s hard to find. Plan toys do some lovely ones in a new wood that floats and you can keep in the water. They’re recycling the wood and making them out of there sawdust, which is of great interest to us. Lanka Kade, they’re a Fair-trade company bringing in items from Sri Lanka and their wooden arks are beautiful. We’re also looking for cultural activities which we need for Ofsted but they’re really hard to find.”
From the movies Cartamundi Stand H1 Disney’s Zootropolis — a modern mammal metropolis like no other where animals from every environment live together — arrives in March 2016 and has inspired the Cartamundi Zootropolis two-game card deck, which includes many characters and scenes from this hilarious animated adventure comedy.
We asked… What can retailers tailers do this year to stimulate sales outside ed peak sales of established periods? With a host of exciting movies, dvds and games es scheduled for release throughout oughout 2016, a terrific opportunity rtunity exists for retailers to satisfy ever increasing, all year consumer demand for character haracter licensed merchandise. Andrew Smith, European Sales Director, Underground ground Toys
Introducing
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products
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Come and find us at GALLERY 305 01603 397105
sales@tobar.co.uk
www.tobar.co.uk
We’re back! TV Come to Stand E1 to find out more!
Toys ‘n’ Playthings Helping everyone sell more Do you have some breaking news or hot stories? Then visit Toys ‘n’ Playthings on Stand E1
June t s 1 2 2016
GOLF £95 FOR THE DAY
CLASSIC 2008 - 2016
£95
8 YEARS Goring & Streatley
FOR THE DAY
TEAM TnP Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk
Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk
Editor
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES • Coffee and bacon rolls on arrival • 9 hole morning Texas Scramble from 9.30 • Lunch (ham, egg and chips) • 18 hole individual Stableford and team four ball, longest drive and nearest the pin • 3 Course Presentation Dinner Email: malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk
Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk
Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk
Media Solutions Manager Bradley Mason bradley@lemapublishing.co.uk
Additional Reporting Tracey Bearton
Additional Reporting Kate Birch
Come and see us at stand G60 www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk
01580 212000
sales@thamesandkosmos.co.uk
Must See
Don’t miss at Toy Fair We bring to the fore a selection of the hottest and newest products that will help you sell more! Buyers and retailers, get in touch with your sales contacts!
Product: Stack a Cat Company: Bigjigs Toys Ltd Stand: H39 Tel: 01303 250400 Web: www.bigjigstoys.com
Product: Sandwich Keeper Dinosaur Company: Bertoy – Crocodile Creek Stand: Gallery 148 Tel: + 32 3 777 05 33 Web: www.bertoy.com
Product: Super 11 Company: Premium World Stand number: B65 Tel: 01483 429119 Web: www.super11.co.uk
Product: Shuffle Subbuteo Company: Cartamundi Stand: H1 Tel: 01268 511522 Web: www.cartamundi.com
Product: Magformers Princess Set Company: Magformers Stand: Gallery 540 Tel: 01582 545330 Web: www.magformers.co.uk
Product: Little Tikes Medium Colur Magnetic Scribbler Company: Sambro Stand: Gallery 400 Tel:0845 873 9380 Web: www.sambro.co.uk
Product: Sylvanian Families Seaside Ice Cream Shop Company: EPOCH making toys Stand: B130 Tel: 08435 574062 Web: www.sylvanianfamilies.net/uk
Product: Big Robots Company: Mookie Toys Stand: E149 Tel: 01525 722722 Web: www.mookie.co.uk
Product: Code Gamer Kit Company: Thames & Kosmos Stand:G60 Tel: 01580 212000 Web: www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk
Product: Buddy Tag Company: Buddy Tag Web: www.buddytag.co.uk Stand: GH43
Product: Tobar Dino Hand Puppet Product: Dino Hand Puppet Company: Tobar Stand: Gallery 305 Tel: 01603 397 105 Web: www.tobar.co.uk
Product: Roar. Catch the monster Company: Trefl SA Stand: H30 Tel: (+48 58) 66 67 100 Web: www.trefl.com
© EPOCH