A PlayConversation with TIA’s Marian Bossard
April 21, 2016 | Marian Bossard, SVP of Global Market Events at the Toy Industry Association (TIA) has been gearing up for PlayCon 2016 in Miami, Florida. She discussed with Toy News Tuesday (TNT) some final, exciting additions to the conference’s May 2-4 agenda.
TNT: What has been added to PlayCon’s itinerary recently?
Marian Bossard: We’re very excited to announce two new sessions that will enhance PlayCon’s content even further.
Kathleen Campisano, vice president of Toys & Games at Barnes & Noble, will deliver “Translating Consumer Insights Into Merchandising Strategies Driving Experiential Retailing” on May 3rd from 11:10 - 11:45 am. Kathleen is an industry veteran of 20-plus years who has helped Barnes & Noble maintain a leading retail position in the U.S. A glimpse into Kathleen’s methods and approaches will be extremely fascinating.
Additionally, on May 3rd from 2:45 - 3:30 pm, we’re hosting a new panel session, “Helping Children Explore, Learn and Dream Without Limits: Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Media & Toys,” which will be moderated by Dr. Knatokie Ford, Senior Policy Advisor to the White House Office of Science and Technology. This topic is on the minds of many industry professionals, so PlayCon is the perfect forum to continue the dialogue. Confirmed panelists are Andrea Barthello of ThinkFun, and Laura Post of LEGO.
Any inventor, maker, manufacturer or retailer will gain invaluable insight from the information being offered by our broad spectrum of presenters.
TNT: What fun networking events will PlayCon host?
MB: Opening day will feature a Welcome Dinner and Casino Night, which will raise money in support of the Toy Industry Foundation, which annually delivers toys and games to children in need worldwide.
Tuesday is an action-packed experience for all attendees kicking off with a networking breakfast, followed by a full day of sessions, networking, refreshments and opportunities for attendees to get to know one another while hearing from our A-list presenters on topics that run the gamut of innovation, inspiration, information and imagination. And after that full day everyone will have the chance to gather outside and continue the conversations that began in the ballroom. The PlayCon Networking reception is one of the most enjoyable events we host all year. The atmosphere is festive and everyone is relaxed and there is plenty of food and drinks to keep everyone happy. Plus, once the party ends anyone who wants to can join us for a special screening of "Star Wars, The Force Awakens" outside under the stars with your feet in the sand.
TNT: How does PlayCon stand out from other industry events?
MB: PlayCon is unique because it provides the toy community access to the most cutting-edge knowledge about our industry and other disciplines while meeting, connecting, and shaping the play industry for the next 100 years. This year in particular, the change in venue to the Miami Beach EDITION Hotel is a powerful factor. Miami is renowned for its exciting culture and nightlife, and provides a wonderful backdrop for the fun, relaxed atmosphere we aim to create. Professionals can network with each other away from the bustle of a trade show floor or a typical business engagement.
Register for PlayCon here, and visit view the full conference agenda online.
Blue Plate Media Services, Diverse Marketing, Freeman, Global Experience Specialists (GES) and Global Toy Experts are generous sponsors of the 2016 event.