TIA Announces Changes for Fall Toy Preview | Key4Communications |

The Toy Industry Association (TIA) has announced that Fall Toy Preview (October 7-9, 2014) will include several enhancements to widen the show’s attendee base and provide added value for members of the global toy industry that have come to rely on the Dallas marketplace to jumpstart the fourth quarter planning.

“Fall Toy Preview has been refreshed so that it may continue to be a successful event that has true value for the toy companies, retailers, importers, licensors and many other industry stakeholders in attendance,” said Marian Bossard, TIA vice president of meetings and events. “By introducing new elements and revamping the show’s offerings, we are striving to ensure that the fall marketplace meets the contemporary wants and needs of all our attendees.”

The following is an overview of the changes that were initiated by TIA’s Trade Show Committee and are being introduced for the 2014 event. Some of the updates shown here were developed based on feedback received from buyers and sellers who responded to TIA’s post-show surveys:

Fall Toy Preview is no longer strictly a “by-appointment-only” event
When it was first conceived a decade ago, Fall Toy Preview was by-appointment-only. In answer to exhibitors who have said that walk-in appointments are good for business, pre-set appointments will no longer be a requirement at the show and exhibitors are encouraged to welcome onsite opportunities.

Open booths are encouraged
Because retail attendees have said they like to “window shop,” this year TIA is offering new booth packages that will provide  exhibiting companies with  open or combination booths (closed with open display areas).

Specialty buyers now welcome
Traditionally, Fall Toy Preview has been open only to long-lead or mass retail outlets, and only toy companies that sold product to mass were allowed to exhibit. This year, mid-tier buyers who have an interest in previewing product are invited to attend the marketplace and all companies (regardless of whether they have an existing relationship with mass) are invited to exhibit, as long as they are ready to show product for Holiday 2015.

New educational programming and special events
Additional enhancements to the show are currently in development – including the introduction of new educational programming and a Women’s Empowerment Initiative co-hosted by Women in Toys and Walmart.  TIA members and Fall Toy Preview attendees will be kept apprised as details about these and other special events are announced in the coming weeks.

“We look forward to creating an even stronger industry marketplace  and to welcoming industry stakeholders to a collaborative and energetic event at the Dallas Market Center this fall!” added Bossard.

Toy and youth product companies who are ready and able to show products for fourth quarter sales next year are invited to contact the appropriate TIA Account Executive for information about exhibiting at the show: