Vegas Baby, Vegas!
The toy industry slot machine is all 7’s this week as North America’s first major in-person toy industry event of the year opens its doors at the Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas (WMCLV).
International Market Centers (IMC) hosts ToyFest West 2022 from March 9-11, an event for retail buyers to go hands-on with a variety of new toys, games, and gift products in a new mixed-use venue.
“IMC’s unique combination of temporary exhibit space and permanent showroom resources will redefine the ‘market’ experience for exhibitors and attendees alike,” says IMC Chairman and CEO Robert Maricich.
The opening of the Expo at WMCLV prompted the Western Toy & Hobby Representatives Association (WTHRA) to move ToyFest West from its previous, hotel-based venue.
“A number of the exhibitors of ToyFest also have permanent showrooms in Building C of the World Market Center complex, so moving the show to The Expo creates a lot of synergy in one convenient location,” says WTHRA Chairman Bill St. John. “The move is creating a lot of buzz in the industry, and we know our customers will enjoy the new aesthetics and safe environment.”
Following the decision to sideline Toy Fair New York for the second year in a row as The Toy Association makes plans to reimagine the event in a new fall position, ToyFest West has received a new burst of attention this year as attendees look to take advantage of ToyFest’s increased product assortment.
“Cooperation between permanent showrooms and temporary tradeshows give attendees a more enhanced experience and additional shopping opportunities to see more diverse lines,” says Diverse Marketing CEO Wes Hardin.
According to the organizers, this week’s temporary exhibitors will join nearly 50 permanent showrooms to exhibit toy, game, gift, and adjacent product lines this week.
