A number of educational topics related to the toy industry will be explored at PlayCon, the Toy Industry Association’s (TIA) International Conference of Play Professionals, scheduled to take place May 7 to 9 at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz.
The May 8 program includes a keynote address delivered by Doug Van Andel, executive creative director at global ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi; a case study presented by Michael Moynihan, vice president of marketing at Lego Systems Inc.; a two-part session by The NPD Group focused on the latest sales data; a presentation entitled “The Broader World of Play,” from Katie Rottier, head of U.S. industry, sports & toys, at Google/YouTube; and more.
The May 9 program includes a presentation by Euromonitor International’s Utku Tansel, head of toys and games research; Tom McGrath, consultant and former general manager at Hasbro, who will present his predictions for the next hit properties; and more.
Hotel reservations can be made online or by calling Starwood Central Reservations at (800) 354-5892. The code, “PlayCon 2014,” can be used to receive the group rate of $219, although the cut-off date to reserve at the discounted rate is April 14.