President’s Letter: Fall Toy Preview Is Shaping Up to Be a Success!

Summer might be in full swing, but fall is already priority #1 with Fall Toy Preview right around the corner. Taking place October 3 to 5, The Toy Association’s annual marketplace at the Dallas Market Center attracts high quality mass and specialty retail buyers for three days of trend-scouting, order writing, future product planning, and networking opportunities.

Everyone who attends 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; developmental and educational toys, outdoor toys, dolls, the latest tech, licensed product, board games, puzzles, infant and preschool toys… the list of what you will find at Fall Toy Preview is endless. Yet, buyers also place orders for the here and now including the vital Q4 selling season.

As we gear up for the show, we’re excited to share that Toys“R”Us, Walmart, Target, Marshalls/TJ Maxx, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Michaels Stores, JC Penney, Party City, and Hobby Lobby are among those that have already confirmed their attendance together with many other outlets, both large and small. About 220 companies are laying plans to unveil brand-new prototypes and product lines in closed, open, or combination booths.

And as always, Fall Toy Preview will offer plenty of opportunities for networking and learning:

  • SELL MORE!  Toy companies looking to expand their reach beyond the show and forge and strengthen relationships with buyers will want to attend our training session on the many features and uses of ShopToys365.com, the play trade’s business-to-business digital marketplace. Taking place Monday, October 2 at 3 p.m., the session is free for all exhibitors and can have a direct positive impact on your bottom line!
  • EMPOWERMENT!  Also on Monday, our colleagues at Women in Toys (WIT) are hosting their annual Empowerment Day, which includes opportunities for pitching product to Walmart buyers and top toy companies, mentorship activities, and networking for professionals in toys, games, licensing, and entertainment. It’s a great, energetic event that we’re honored to have at our show for the fourth consecutive year. More information about WIT Empowerment Day is available online.
  • VOTE!  Bright and early on Tuesday, October 3, when Fall Toy Preview opens its doors, The Toy Association will host a special gathering for members to review and approve a range of updates to the Association’s bylaws.  Members of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee will be on hand to take your questions and learn your ideas for our future.
  • PARTY!  Networking shifts into high gear on Tuesday as day one of the show floor closes and the annual gala opening night party takes place in the Grand Pavilion atrium of the Dallas Market Center, offering lots of fun, food, cocktails and signature drinks, entertainment, and networking into the evening. The DMC team always impresses us!

The most important aspect of your making Fall Toy Preview a success is planning well in advance.  Schedule appointments – fill that calendar to be sure your booth is always busy.  Don’t hope folks will simply stream into your space, as the show is a busy time for buyers. 

There will be more news to come!  Fall Toy Preview continues to broaden its appeal, giving everyone who attends the chance to become a true “game-changer” in the toy and youth entertainment product space. I think I speak for all of us when I say that I can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon for 2018.

See you in Dallas in early October.  Be there!

All good wishes,

Steve Pasierb
spasierb@toyassociation.org
Follow my toy and play musings on Twitter @StevePasierb