The Toy Association Unveils Plans For Upcoming Trade Events

by KIMBERLY CARCONE, Executive Vice President of Global Market Events at The Toy Association

The Toy Association is gearing up to offer more resources and opportunities to help the global play community succeed.

Reflecting on the success of our re-imagined Toy Fair, this past show served as a dynamic stage where the pulse of innovation in play reverberated across every aisle and booth. The energy and enthusiasm showcased by exhibitors, buyers, and industry professionals were nothing short of extraordinary and we anticipate yet another chapter of innovation, collaboration, and opportunity at the 119th Toy Fair, which will take place at the Javits Center in New York City from March 1-4, 2025. 

The renewal period for returning exhibitors is currently in full swing and will conclude at the end of February, while general exhibit sales will open in April. Exhibitors that lock in their booth space early will be included in the priority round of booth assignments, starting in mid-March.

The Toy Association will roll out digital recordings of the 2023 Toy Fair University educational sessions, in addition to never-before-seen content, through May. The recordings feature experts covering a plethora of topics, from how to market in the metaverse and utilize generative artificial intelligence (AI) programs like ChatGPT, to lessons on unlocking new retail strategies and adhering to safety regulations. These product development, marketing, and retail insights are designed to further empower toy professionals at all stages of their careers with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricacies of the industry successfully.

The Toy Association has long been a champion of innovation, and this promises to be another significant year with a renewed focus on serving inventors, designers, and other creatives. On March 4, the Association will hold its first virtual Creative Factor Inventor Day of the year. These inventor days have become a critical component to our year-round work in creating opportunities for industry newcomers to meet with seasoned toy and game professionals, share ideas, gain insights, and — most importantly — connect with manufacturers who can help bring their creations to life. More information on how to get involved in Creative Factor Inventor Days, including those held in conjunction with Toy Fair, is available at toyassociation.org.

We’ve heard industry feedback loud and clear, and I’m excited to share that The Toy Association will have a presence in Los Angeles this fall. Our team has invested significant time engaging with toy companies, retailers, and other industry players to understand their needs and explore different ways the Association can provide and facilitate long-term exposure opportunities to companies that wish to be in Los Angeles during the upcoming fall preview season. The LA Fall Preview market week will take place Sept. 9-13, 2024. More details are coming soon!

In embracing the spirit of our industry through Creative Factor Inventor Days, education for all, and upcoming events in Los Angeles and New York, The Toy Association is paving the way for a new era of shared success for our play community. We hope you join us along the way!

This article was originally published in the February 2024 edition of The BIG Toy Book. Click here to read the full issue! Want to receive The Toy Book in print? Click here for subscription options!