Anticipation is building for Fall Toy Preview 2018, slated to take place October 2–4 at the Dallas Market Center in Dallas, Texas. If you’re wondering what’s in store for the fall marketplace, read on as The Toy Association’s Kristin Morency Goldman breaks down the top five things you need to know about Fall Toy Preview:
- Retailer Attendance is Up
A massive influx of new retail outlets and individual buyers will be at this year’s show. In the first month since attendee registration opened, event organizers have reported a 23 percent increase in registered outlets and a 63 percent hike in individual buyers compared to the same period last year. All are looking to grab market share following the loss of some larger, more traditional toy outlets – and all recognize that Fall Toy Preview is THE place to see what’s coming down the pipeline in terms of brand-new toys, reinvented classics, and trending play patterns. - You’ll Get to Preview Never-Before-Seen Product
Everyone who attends Fall Toy Preview remarks it’s a unique experience in the world of toys. Where else can one get a sneak peek at innovative toys and games – all under one roof – more than a year in advance of in-store delivery? New and returning retailers at this year’s show will get to see the latest product lines and most innovative new toys from upwards of 300 exhibiting toy companies in closed, open, and combination booths. - The Show Offers Unique Opportunities to Gain Exposure for Your Brand
If you’re a Fall Toy Preview exhibitor, you already know that you’ll have the opportunity to meet with an array of buyers from mass, mid-tier, and specialty retail outlets. You’ll also gain exposure in front of bloggers and online influencers, thanks to a brand-new Bloggers’ Breakfast that will be hosted by The Toy Association on the morning of Tuesday, October 2. The goal is to better acquaint online influencers with the marketplace and take them on a special tour of select exhibitors’ booths. To find out if your booth can be a featured stop on the tour, contact The Toy Association’s Laura Mangiaracina. For additional exposure, consider booking a preview appointment with a member of The Toy Association’s trends team. Trend-spotters will meet with roughly 100 companies throughout the show to track what’s new and cutting edge in toys and games – crucial information that will be shared by The Toy Association with media and consumers in broadcast segments, publications, and on social media throughout 2019. Contact Akshata Hase to book an appointment. - There Are So Many Ways to Forge New Connections
Don’t forget to take part in special sessions and events, whether you want to network, forge business connections, or learn something new about the business of toys and play. On October 1, the annual WIT Empowerment Day will connect women entrepreneurs with Walmart buyers and top toy companies like Hasbro, Spin Master, etc., giving them the exclusive opportunity to pitch their products. Top industry experts will also help entrepreneurs take their business, concept, or product to the next level through one-on-one mentoring that will include important trends and insights, education, support, and guidance. And on Wednesday, October 3, a free lunch-and-learn session will be held with David Becker, president of Blue Plate Media Services, who will share strategies for a “balanced diet of media buying.” - You Can Show Your Support for The Toy Foundation at the Opening Night Party
At the end of the first day of the show (Tuesday, October 2), The Toy Association’s themed Opening Night Party will once again welcome show guests for a fun time with fantastic food and entertainment. Each exhibitor receives two complimentary tickets to the party; tickets are otherwise $25, with proceeds benefitting the philanthropic work of The Toy Foundation, which brings toys and games to millions of children in need around the world.
To find out even more information on the upcoming event this fall, visit www.FallToyPreview.org to learn more.