Toys n Playthings by Lema Publishing

toysnplaythings.co.uk

Helping everyone sell more

2017 March No. 6 6 Vol. 3

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,125 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

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CONTENTS Regular 2017 March No. 6 6 Vol. 3

TEAM TnP Group Editor Mirella Anstey mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Leader - with Mirella Anstey

News - hot off the press

Quick Coffee Break – with Emily Maclennan, Marketing Director at Worlds Apart

10 Movie News – the latest from the box office 11

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Media News – the multimedia rundown

12 Media Charts – the latest kids’ TV viewing figures and toy TV advertising spend 14 Retail News – the latest from across the retail landscape 24 What’s New – new products that you need to get your hands on 26 Toy Talk – retailers let us know what is selling well

Editor Mairead Wilmot mairead@lemapublishing.co.uk

Writer Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

Publisher Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

59 Spotlight on… Chelford – one new product, all the USPs explained 78 Watch Out For… – a round up of toys you really don’t want to be without

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93 Trade Talk – we give suppliers a chance to talk business 104 Licensing News – the hottest news from the world of licensing 106 Step Back in Time – a slice of toy history from the industry’s longest running magazine 107 Don’t Miss – unmissable products for all buyers and retailers

Features 28 Games & Puzzles – everything you need for this dynamic category 60 Outdoor Toys – breathe in the fresh air with these winners 82 Back to School – all the best bits to make going back to school a breeze 94 North American Toy Fair – TnP reports back from New York

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Design and Production Marian McNamara marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

96 Interactive Toys – a look at what is making this category tick

Special Report 16 Retail Interview – we caught up with Miles Penhallow of the AIS buying group 23 Cover story – Mookie tell us about its exciting line up for 2017

Columnists 13 Retail Opinion – keep it fresh like Games Workshop, says John Ryan 20 The Independent and Secret Supplier – the battle continues 58 20.20 Column - Mariann Wenckheim, Director at Strategic Design Consultancy 20.20 talks making an impact at retail

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80 TnP Ambassadors – our ambassadors test the toys you stock on your shelves 92 Media Whisperer – Clive Crouch looks at the threat to children’s advertising

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At the heart of retail A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,125

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1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

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LEADER

T A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 5,125 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

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Mirella parents spending about his first quarter has proven to be very £55 for their kids’ exciting and one filled with good sales Anstey costumes — that’s a lot of cash, so far. For instance Flair is having an really. We live in a world where people are very extraordinarily good time currently with time poor and both parents work. Add their newly-launched PJ Masks range. I can personally vouch for this as I trawled to that the fact that parents probably feel a little guilty so spend a little bit through several big toy shops in extra on odd things that perhaps my area to get Gecko, Owlette and Catboy and the vehicles too. they wouldn’t have in the past. These days nobody has the time Good value at £13.99 in my view! to run up a quick outfit, or search One local Toys R Us told me they in wardrobes and attics for a were selling out as fast as they were getting the shipments in. They even said a new pallet was PJ Masks is going being delivered the next day and great guns for Flair there would be parents queuing We’re sad to see up outside from long before the Darrell leave Bandai shop opened just to pick one up or, as in my case, all three of the characters. Now, that’s Flair a great toy is having a story, wouldn’t good time you say? with their newlycouple of items to pull together The first few launched PJ to dress their kids up like Charlie months look Masks range… Bucket. In my experience, parents good when you One local Toys R would rather go the whole hog and also add into Us told me they spent £20-odd quid on buying a the mix something like were selling out really good outfit. World Book Day. The as fast as they Another terrific brand about to go number of parents I were getting the huge again and really blow things know personally who shipments in up is Power Rangers. The new movie have spent a lot of is out in just a matter of weeks and money on several already shops are selling the toys outfits for their pretty fast! The movie looks edgy various children and cool, but I also know that all the to wear at school for toys lines — not just the movie line World Book Day is phenomenal. — including the Imaginext line from Fisher-Price is I reckon I know about 20-odd doing really well. It’s unsurprising really; the brand has some great heritage, a lot of humour and the old fashioned good triumphing over evil narrative — what kid doesn’t fall hook, line and sinker for that perfect mix? But Bandai has more news to share than just their great toys — one of the trade’s most respected and loved faces Darrell Jones is leaving the company after more than 20 years, latterly as Marketing Director. We here at TnP are jolly saddened by the news — Darrell is a great and straight-shooting member of the toy trade and he’s been a great supporter of ours. So we wish him the best of luck and hope our paths cross again… and of course, we look forward to welcoming the newest member of Team Bandai — we will reveal all soon!

“

”

World Book Day continues to increase in popularity

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NEWS LEGO President and CEO Jørgen Vig Knudstorp

LEGO is a super brand LEGO has been named the second strongest UK consumer brand in the 22nd annual Consumer Superbrands listing. A poll asked 2,500 UK consumers to vote on more than 1,500 leading brands, considering which offered reliability, distinction, and perceived quality. In the 2017 listing, LEGO moved up a place from third position in 2016. It now sits behind only British Airways as the nation’s favourite brand. John Lewis also moved up the charts, sitting just shy of the top five in sixth position. Boots, Marks and Spencer and Amazon.co.uk round out the retail brands that made it into the top 20. Stephen Cheliotis, Chief Executive of list managers The Centre For Brand Analysis and Chairman of the Consumer Superbrands Council, said: “In uncertain times people turn to brands they trust, brands they can be reassured will deliver on any promises made. “Outperforming so many other contenders and achieving this status is affirmation of a brand’s credentials and testament to the positive reputation it enjoys.”

Willoughby’s top dogs TV personality Holly Willoughby has shared her family’s love of PAW Patrol with her millions of Instagram followers. The This Morning co-host posted an adorable video of her two-year-old son Chester excitedly naming PAW Patrol characters. Captioned “Paw Patrol obsessed! #chester #adorbs #pawpatrol”, the video has been viewed over 300,000 times. Spin Master’s Marketing Manager Emma Eden said: “We’re delighted to hear that PAW Patrol is clearly well loved in the Willoughby household, and at just two years old we hope Chester will continue to enjoy PAW Patrol for some time.”

DARRELL TO LEAVE BANDAI Bandai UK’s Marketing Director Darrell Jones will be leaving at the end of March after 26 years with the company. He joined in 1990, initially working on the Nintendo video games business, before moving across to the toy division just as the company was about to launch Power Rangers. “I’ve worked with so many fantastic people during my 26 years at Bandai and have been very fortunate to be involved with some of the greatest brands — Power Rangers, Ben 10, and Tamagotchi to name a few,” said Darrell. “I would like to thank the Bandai UK team who have become my second family. I am looking forward to taking some time off to relax and spend time with my family before pursuing new challenges.” You can keep in touch with Darrell at darrelljones@gmx.com.

HASBRO APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENT Hasbro has promoted John Frascotti to the position of President. He will continue to lead Hasbro’s product design and development, global marketing, digital gaming, entertainment and consumer products initiatives, reporting to Brian Goldner, who becomes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company. “John’s strategic vision and consumer-centric approach to our brands and our business, combined with his authentic leadership style, has played a pivotal role in our evolution from a traditional toy and game company to a

global play and entertainment leader,” said Brian Goldner. “He has been a critical member of our senior management team for nearly 10 years and I look forward to continuing to work alongside him.” John joined Hasbro in 2008 as Chief Marketing Officer and in 2014 became President of Hasbro Brands. During his tenure, he has played a critical role in rejuvenating Hasbro’s brands, including Transformers, My Little Pony and Monopoly. “I am humbled and honoured to take on the role of president of this phenomenal company,” said John.

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Lamaze amazes Tomy is celebrating a return to growth for its infant toy brand Lamaze, with sales climbing three per cent. The brand re-launched in 2016 with a new look and an integrated marketing campaign designed to reach consumers through a celebrity ambassadorship with Coleen Rooney, parenting media partnership, large scale digital and social media, and in-store activation. “After our focused efforts to return Lamaze to growth in 2016, we are excited for what 2017 has in store,” said Emma Fryer, Head of UK Marketing at Tomy. “We’ll continue to put the full strength of our marketing teams behind the brand and support new launches.” Looking ahead, Tomy will continue to support Lamaze with a year-round strategic communications plan across multiple consumer touch points, along with additions to the Clip & Go range and expansion of its popular gifting and activity toy segments.

Spin Master patents Hatchimals in US Spin Master has been granted a US Patent and a Chinese Utility Model Patent on the innovation behind its award-winning Hatchimals toy. The patents generally cover the Hatchimals character emerging from its shell, which kids nurture through touch using the patented technology. The company has additional patent applications for the Hatchimals technology pending in the European Patent Office, Canada, and other major territories, including further applications in the US. “We believe the innovation and ingenuity of Hatchimals’ ground-breaking

technology was a significant contributor to the brand’s success,” said Ben Gadbois, COO and Global President, Spin Master Ltd. “We are currently developing new features and have filed several additional patent applications globally to cover other features of the unique play pattern.” Hatchimals recently received the prestigious Innovative Toy of the Year award at New York Toy Fair, where Spin Master officially revealed the latest additions to the range: Hatchimals Glitter and Hatchimals Colleggtibles.

US Toy of the Year winners The winners of this year’s US Toy of the Year Awards have been announced. Unveiled during a gala at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City, the big winners of the night were LEGO Friends Amusement Park Roller Coaster, taking home the prestigious Toy of the Year award, and Pop! from Funko, LLC, which won the coveted People’s Choice award. Congratulating this year’s finalists, Steve Pasierb, TIA President and Chief Executive said: “This year’s TOTY winners truly run the gamut, from quirky collectables and skill-building construction toys, to family games and educational tech toys. But there is one thing they all have in common: they bring fun, laughter, and learning to kids!”

Awards were handed out in 14 categories, and the winners are: ● ● ● ● ●

● ●

Trolls 2 is coming! A sequel to Universal DreamWorks Animation’s all-sing, all-dancing animated movie Trolls has been announced. Trolls 2 will release in cinemas on 10 April 2020. Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, who opened this year’s Oscars with a rendition of the first movie’s breakout single Can’t Stop the Feeling, will reprise their lead roles. Trolls earned $339m worldwide.

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Action Figure of the Year: DC Super Hero Girls Action Figure Assortment, Mattel Active/Outdoor Toy of the Year: Bunch O Balloons, Zuru Activity Toy of the Year: Crayola Air Marker Sprayer, Crayola Collectable of the Year: Pop!, Funko Construction Toy of the Year: LEGO Friends Amusement Park Roller Coaster, LEGO Systems Doll of the Year: Barbie Fashionista Doll, Mattel Game of the Year: Yeti in My Spaghetti, PlayMonster! Infant/Preschool Toy of the Year: Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital Care Cart, Just Play Innovative Toy of the Year: Hatchimals, Spin Master License of the Year: PAW Patrol, Spin Master Rookie of the Year: 3DoodlerStart Essentials Pen Set, WobbleWorks Specialty Toy of the Year: LEGO Disney Castle, LEGO Systems Tech Toy of the Year: CodeGamer, Thames & Kosmos Vehicle of the Year: Air Hogs Star Wars X-Wing vs. Death Star - Rebel Assault, Spin Master

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NEWS Hasbro have stars in their eyes Hasbro was joined by some of Hollywood’s brightest talent for its Entertainment Preview Event held during New York Toy Fair. Transformers: The Last Knight stars Mark Wahlberg (pictured), Josh Duhamel, Isabela Moner, Laura Haddock, director Michael Bay and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura all visited to get a sneak peek at the new movie-themed figures which are set to release later this year. Below, the stars of My Little Pony: The Movie also stopped by. Taye Diggs, Uzo Aduba and Tara Strong, who voice characters in the film, had the opportunity to get up close and personal with the new moviethemed figures ahead of launch.

Toy boy Kevin celebrates Toy boy and ace football referee Kevin Belcher celebrated his 60th birthday in style while in Nuremberg in February. Trust Character Group to lay on a great party, enjoyed hugely by the crème de la crème of the industry! Congratulations from all at TnP! Kevin, second right, pictured with friends enjoying his party in Nuremberg.

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FRIDAY COUNTDOWN BEGINS Disney and Lucasfilm are bringing back Star Wars Force Friday to celebrate the retail launch of licensed Star Wars: The Last Jedi product later this year. Star Wars Force Friday II will see toys, collectables, books, apparel and more go on sale from 12.01am on 1 September 2017. Hundreds of thousands of fans turned up for midnight store openings around the world for the first Force Friday in 2015, and this year retailers will open for a weekendlong celebration. “The first Star Wars Force Friday event was truly unique, uniting fans across five continents in an unprecedented global live unboxing event ahead of thousands of midnight openings at retail,” said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. “Plans for this year’s worldwide event are top secret.”

Trio join Magformers Magformers has expanded its team with three key new appointments. Jill MacNeill has been appointed Sales Executive and will be responsible for developing Magformers’ growing business in Ireland. Patricia Hartshorn has joined the company’s UK head office team in Cheshire as Office Manager, and Jill Paget has been recruited as company accountant. Magformers UK Managing Director, David Kelly said: “Jill MacNeill brings an enormous amount of retail experience with her and I believe her deep understanding and empathy with retail will play an important part in expanding our sales in Ireland. Jill Paget and Trish are already having an impact in the smooth running of the head office.”

Toy Fair trolley dash a success Around 1,000 children will benefit from this year’s Toy Fair trolley dash. The charity event, an annual tradition that closes out each Toy Fair, saw 60 volunteers collect 4,000 toys donated by generous exhibitors on the show floor. KidsOut returned as the official partner for Toy Fair 2017, working in partnership with Women’s Aid Federation. Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair Operations and Sales said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to all our exhibitors who generously donated toys to KidsOut and hopefully we can achieve the same again next year.”

Toy Fair TV presenters enjoying the Trolley Dash

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Sowing learning seeds A tree is to be planted for each of the 80 guests who attended Learning Resources’ annual Nuremberg party this year. The company made a donation to World Land Trust to celebrate the customer reception, which this year had the theme Garden in the City. Held at the Neues Museum for Modern and Contemporary Art, the evening celebrated growth and invited guests to share quality food, drinks and entertainment Dennis Blackmore, Learning Resources Managing Director, said: “We really appreciate this opportunity to support the work of the World Land Trust; our customers who come from all over the world were enthusiastic about having a tree planted on their behalf.” Pictured enjoying the party is Jo Stonebanks (Learning Resources), Lauren Hughes (Findel Education) and Rosie Mann (Learning Resources)

In The Night Garden Baby launches Golden Bear is taking In the Night Garden into the nursery sector in SS17 with the launch of In the Night Garden Baby. The beautiful collection of nursery toys is based around the TV show’s much-loved characters Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka. Building on the strength of its In the Night Garden pre-school line — the range is the perfect introduction to the popular brand and includes plush toys in pastel colours as well as themed blankies, rattles and hanging chimes. The multi-sensory Soothe and Glow Igglepiggle plush joins the range later in the year.

Rubik’s Cube is magic! Rubik’s has teamed up with Fantasma Magic to create a range of exciting Rubik’s themed magic sets. The sets are inspired by a Rubik’s magic routine that went viral from America’s Got Talent 2016. Debuted to the trade at New York Toy Fair, the range has already been a hit with toy buyers from around the world. The magic sets, developed by new Rubik’s master licensee The Smiley Company, will be available at a variety of price points. Activities include the Perplexing Magic set with 135-plus tricks. They will hit retail shelves in the US and Europe later this year. Smiley CEO Nicolas Loufrani said: “With the Rubik’s range of novelty items we are creating for the first time a lifestyle range for people who want to show their smart side.”

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COFFEE BREAK Emily Maclennan is the Marketing Director at Cornwallbased company Worlds Apart. The company enjoyed astonishing success in 2016 with the SelfieMic. Here Emily tells us about some top Worlds Apart products Emily, tell us a little about what is new for Worlds Apart in 2017? In 2017 Worlds Apart will be going into the games category, with two new product launches. Spin to Sing, which is a singing talent show game, and Woofy Whoops, which is a hilarious suspense game. Both games have had an amazing reaction, with distribution partners secured across the globe. What other new categories and licences are you delving into this year? We are excited by this year’s licensing slate as there are some big movie opportunities with Cars 3, Spider-Man and My Little Pony being the biggest focuses for Worlds Apart. We are also seeing good growth in pre-school licenses and are expanding our pre-school range to include PJ Masks and Shimmer & Shine. Headphone Hats is our new kids’ headphone brand that launched Q4 last year and we are launching Spider-Man, PJ Masks and Cars versions for 2017. What marketing and retail promotions are you planning to help retailers sell more? Overall our marketing budget has grown considerably in 2017 with TV, digital and PR all increasing. We have tripled the marketing investment in our night light brand GoGlow for 2017, due to the amazing sell-through in 2016. We saw great success with celebrity influencers in 2016 so we see this being part of the marketing mix going into 2017. We continue to see in-store experience as critical and will be offering retailers POS solutions to maximise sales and customer engagement. And what about the super success of SelfieMic last year — what are your plans for that brand? SelfieMic was distributed in over 26 countries in 2016 and we are expanding this further in 2017 and beyond to include Japan and China. Feedback from UK retailers has been fantastic and they are expecting the second year to be strong, so we are continuing to build the brand and support growth with a robust

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MOVIE

NEWS

Barbie levels up Barbie Video Games Hero, a new video game-inspired Barbie movie, launched on DVD and digital download in February. The feature film re-imagines Barbie in a bold video game world along with Bella the roller skating princess and new friend Cutie. Together they traverse a world that morphs into different video games styles around them, including 2D, pixel and anime-inspired settings. The new movie is brought to life with a vibrant toy line, including a Barbie Video Game Hero Light-up Skates Barbie Doll. The range is further supported by the Barbie co-star Dolls Assortment, and cute 2D world-inspired Barbie Video Game Junior Doll Assortment, and the Barbie Video Game Hero Vehicle and Figure Play Set.

It’s morphin’ time! Just a few weeks remain until the Power Rangers battle their way into the box office, and to celebrate a new poster has been released. Lionsgate put the poster out exclusively in the UK, showing the heroes in their colourful armour as villain Rita Repulsa plots in the background. Bryan Cranston, Bill Hader and Elizabeth Banks all star in the movie, which release 23 March in UK cinemas.

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All about Batman The LEGO Batman Movie topped the half-term box office charts in February, opening to the tune of £7.91m. Those figures include revenue taken during previews, and puts it in step with The LEGO Movie’s opening in 2014, which later went on to make £35m in the UK. The LEGO Batman Movie, which stars Will Arnett as the titular caped crusader, performed well despite tough competition in the form of Illumination’s Sing, Fifty Shades Darker and action cult hit John Wick 2 all jostling for eyeballs. Ahead of the film’s premier, Warner Bros. Pictures released a trailer for its next toy-inspired animation, The LEGO Ninjago Movie. Fronted by martial arts maestro Jackie Chan and based on LEGO’s ninjathemed sub brand, it’s set for UK release this October.

Bright future Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment have shed light on their future movie slate, scheduling four untitled movies for release between 2021 and 2023. The studio will release a movie every summer between 2021 and 2023, with a Christmas release also coming in 2022. It has not revealed whether they will be original animations or sequels to its established franchises, like Despicable Me or its most recent hit Sing. Illumination also announced date changes for Secret Life of Pets 2, moving back a year to July 2019, and Minions 2, which will now release seven days earlier than forecast on 3 July 2020. Illumination is currently gearing up for its next release this June, when Gru and the Minions return in Despicable Me 3.

Mulan makes a comeback Disney has landed a director for its live-action take on Mulan, with Niki Caro taking the reigns. Niki is the second female director at Disney to helm a movie with a budget over $100m, a fitting move given the classic Chinese tale’s focus on gender and subverting traditional social roles. The movie follows the adventures of female warrior Mulan and is slated for release in November 2018.

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MEDIA

Dream deal

NEWS

Hachette Children’s Group’s kids’ imprint Hodder Children’s Books has signed multiple deals with Universal Brand Development for DreamWorks Animation properties, including How to Train Your Dragon. Publishing licenses for Noddy Toyland Detective and Dinotrux are also part of the deal. “A key part of our licensing strategy at Hachette Children’s Group is to become a home for well-known brands, so we’re extremely excited by the addition of these DreamWorks licenses for the Hodder Children’s imprint,” said Hodder’s Senior Publisher Anne McNeil. “We are delighted to have acquired the publishing rights for Noddy which is often where a child’s journey through the world of Enid Blyton begins.” The books began rolling out in late 2016, with more coming throughout this year.

It only gets Jetter

App-y days for Hey Duggee

CBeebies and BBC Worldwide has commissioned a second series of pre-school animation Go-Jetters. The renewal follows the first series’ success, which has reached a cumulative linear audience of 10 million viewers in the UK alone, and sold to 90 territories globally. The 50 new episodes in series two will be joined by a 22-minute special.

Hey Duggee has crossed a major milestone on mobile, with downloads of the brand’s apps passing one million. The BAFTA-winning CBeebies show has five best-selling apps, including The Big Badge App, The Big Outdoor App and the We Love Animals app, as well as standalone apps The Sandcastle Badge and The Tinsel Badge.

LEGO builds mobile team

Show quiz A new app gave SpongeBob SquarePants fans the chance to play along with a live quiz broadcast on Nicktoons in February. Available for free on iOS and Android, the SpongeMaster app uses questions that appear live on air to quiz audiences, with the top-scoring players in with a chance to win a host of prizes. Episodes of the irreverent animation that featured SpongeMaster questions aired on Nicktoons between 13 and 24 February. With a recent Ofcom report revealing that 83 per cent of UK kids aged five to 15 now have access to a tablet, Nickelodeon is hoping to tap into this growing audience. Alison Bakunowich, General Manager, Nickelodeon UK & Ireland said the app “demonstrates Nickelodeon’s commitment to delivering the best kids’ content in innovative ways”.

TT Games, the developer of the LEGO video game series, is bringing a top mobile game maker in-house to work on new LEGO content for smartphones and tablets. Playdemic is one of Europe’s top rated mobile developers, and will work alongside TT Games studios Traveller’s Tales and TT Fusion to create the new games. TT Games MD, Tom Stone said: “Playdemic brings a unique set of skills to complement our existing studios, and a tremendous track record on mobile. They’re a perfect fit — and will enable us to take advantage of exciting new opportunities to build new kinds of socially-connected LEGO games.” Paul Gouge, Playdemic CEO, added: “We’re all huge fans of the LEGO Group and the LEGO games made over the years by TT Games, and we’re tremendously proud to be able to make a new contribution to that legacy.” Playdemic’s back catalogue includes mobile hits Golf Clash and Village Life, which have generated more than $50m of revenue.

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CHARTS

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Boy, oh boy W

elcome to the media report for January 2017, this month we are reporting on viewing levels for all Boys, Girls and Housewives with Children. As the charts shows there are some big drops in viewing levels for Boys. Overall this group is down by 30 per cent when compared to January 2016. Most of the stations have lost ground but Kix and Disney Junior are up, and CiTV is holding its own. The viewing levels for Girls is showing a similar pattern with a downturn of 22.9 per cent. Again most of the stations are losing ground but Channel 5, Kix and CiTV are marginally up. It is surprising to E H T see stations such F O MOST AVE as Boomerang and NS H STATIO ROUND BUT Nickelodeon showing a shortfall. LOST G D DISNEY N Looking at the data for A P KIX ARE U R Housewives with Children O I N JU we see a similar pattern. It is good to see that ITV Breakfast is only marginally down. There are some big decreases from Nickelodeon Junior and Tiny Pop and overall this group is 21 per cent down on January 2016. The top ten spenders for January 2017 are 38.4 per cent down when compared to January 2016. Looking at the total for reported expenditure it is down a massive 69 per cent compared to January 2016. While the usual suspects are all within the top ten we can see clearly that their expenditure is dramatically down. The TV market continues to show a decrease in revenue, the year has not got off to a good start. Next month we will report on both Girls and Boys 4-9 years and Housewives with Children â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pre School.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

1500 1000 500 0

Housewives Children January 16 vs January 17

Jan-16

Jan-17

5000 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Boys TVRs January 16 vs January 17

Jan-16

Jan-17

Jan-16

Jan-17

4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Girls TVRs January 16 vs January 17

Jan 2016 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Jan 2017 Toy Company TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

Company Name

TV Expenditure

MGA Ent Epoch UK Smyths Toy Superstores Golden Bear Prod Ltd Spin Master Toys Ltd Mattel UK Ltd Vivid Imaginations Ltd Character Options Ltd LEGO UK Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd Hasbro UK Ltd

182,557 185,152 222,308 225,887 246,909 296,586 375,605 399,899 406,270 784,908 2,080,965

Bandai UK Ltd Topps Europe Ltd VTech Electronics Ltd Spin Master Toys Ltd Vivid Imaginations Ltd Mattel UK Ltd Character Options Ltd John Adams Leisure Ltd Hasbro UK Ltd Flair Leisure Prod Ltd LEGO UK Ltd

78,513 98,929 167,401 185,378 207,476 213,978 217,780 299,597 440,316 909,790 1,093,992

For more information on viewing levels please contact Mike Penfold. mike@globalmedia.me.uk Tel: 01494 763178. All graphs and information supplied by Global Media Services

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RETAIL

OPINION

Play to your strengths R

emember Warhammer? If you are a male of a little past its sell-by date? certain age you may have spent a considerable This kind of visual audit is readily undertaken simply part of your youth painting plastic figures that by trying to recall the last time you gave the interior, looked like they had emerged from the pages of a and the exterior, a makeover. Tolkien epic. This done, you’d indulge in a spot of Most retailers will be quick to tell you the interval fantasy warfare with your friends who had been similarly between store refurbishments is growing ever shorter preoccupied, all hoping your warriors would prevail. and if a store looks the same as it did five or more years If you were really lucky, you’d be taken to a ago, it will be both out of date and probably losing Warhammer shop where enthusiasts would gather and shoppers. The problem is, during the course of half a where play was part of the experience. There weren’t decade there is a sporting chance that others operating actually that many branches, so spending time in a store in the same sector as you do will have given their store was a treat. Now that is changing. The 140 strong chain a facelift. called Games Workshop is set to gradually disappear Practically, this will mean that their stores look worth as its stores morph into Warhammer a visit while those that fall into branches. the traditional category will prove Games Workshop is, in fact, the easier to bypass. Games Workshop is owner of Warhammer and it has Never underestimate the power the owner of Warhammer decided to rebrand its stores simply of the new, even if it means a and it has decided to because that is where it makes most complete shift of emphasis and rebrand its stores simply money. The decision means that a fascia change as is happening because that is where it reasonably well-known name will, with Games Workshop. store by store, cease to exist in the Mention should also be made makes most money UK as Warhammer takes its place. at this point of the influence of digital. The allure of electronic toys is such that any olderlooking store will be assumed not to be part of the digital sphere of influence. Digital means modern for most shoppers and whether it’s projections or holograms in the window the expectation is such that if you want to be noticed you have to give notice of what your store offers — and tradition and digital make uneasy The transformation illustrates two things — play to bedfellows. Even a distinctly traditional retailer your strengths and be prepared to change if necessary. such as Clarks, the shoe retailer, has been Toy shops, as a rule — other than the very biggest — putting a brace of moving holographic shoes are not terribly good at doing this sort of thing. Indeed, in the window of its Regent Street store the words traditional and toy shop are frequently lately, so why not toy shops? yoked together, whether or not this is what shoppers A lick of paint, some new shelving actually want. There is, of course, a place for heritage and a few decent graphics may well, in in most forms of retailing and if you want tradition, many instances, be enough to convince look no further than Pollock’s in Covent Garden, where the passing shopper. If you need to do shoppers can sample a little Victoriana while buying a more than this, try to keep things intoy theatre, or something associated with it. house, professional advice does not come Pollock’s is the exception however. For the most part, cheap, unless you happen to operate on a tradition means fusty and left to decay, rather than substantial scale. something to be savoured. So here is a question; if The real point is don’t stand still. And if you are a toy shop owner, take a look at the face you an organisation the size of Games present to your customers and consider whether it is Workshop can change its spots, then up to the minute, one of the herd or, put bluntly, is it a why can’t you?

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Games Workshop is rebranding its stores

Traditional toy shops may have their place in the scheme of things, but beware of being left behind, warns John Ryan

John Ryan is Stores Editor at Retail Week. He has worked for the magazine for more than a decade covering store design, visual merchandising and what makes things sell in-store. In a previous life he was a buyer.

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03/03/2017 15:47

RETAIL

NEWS

Footing the Bill Toymaster member Bill Bulstrode is running the London Marathon next month. The owner of Bulstrodes toy shop in Framlingham, Suffolk will be taking part in the annual event to raise money for cancer charity CLIC Sargent. You can donate to the worthy cause and support Bill by searching his full name on uk.virginmoneygiving.com.

Super retail campaign Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media is debuting an all-new retail campaign for its Marvel brand this spring. The campaign builds on three years of success for Marvel’s Super Hero Spectacular retail event, and this year it will be tailored to heroes everywhere. The Marvel Heroes Come in All Sizes initiative is a celebration of Marvel Super Heroes — and everyday heroes — across a broad spectrum of merchandise, new story content, digital storytelling, and collaborations. The campaign will package content with brand-driven marketing and new product releases to drive Marvel retail placement for fans of all ages. “Whether you are big like Hulk, small like Ant-Man or smart and quick-to-action like Black Widow, Marvel truly has a hero for everyone,” said Paul Gitter, SVP, Licensing, Marvel at Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. “From young kids to teenagers, to a casual fan or a diehard adult collector, Marvel Heroes Come in All Sizes showcases that there is no singular definition for a hero and that our diversity is what makes us so powerful.” 14

News Retail.indd 1

Toys R Us restructures HQ Toys R Us has axed around 10 to 15 per cent of the workforce at its US headquarters. Around 250 corporate employees were handed termination letters last month. A Toys R Us spokesperson said in a statement that the move was part of the retailer’s efforts to “continually look for opportunities to work more efficiently and effectively, particularly as customer shopping patterns are evolving”. The retailer also stressed that the changes were not solely driven by cost-containment, adding: “our growth plans require us to have the right structure, talent and determination to transform our business and achieve the financial objectives we’ve set for the company.”

Two new for The Entertainer The Entertainer is opening two new stores this spring in Truro, Cornwall and Northampton, Northamptonshire. The openings will bring the toy retailer’s total number of UK outlets to 133. Each of the new locations will be among the retailer’s biggest stores at more than 2,500 sq ft. The store in Truro will be The Entertainer’s first in Cornwall, and its most westerly, opening on the town’s bustling high street. The new Northampton store will be located in the Grosvenor Shopping Centre. “We have a solid footprint right across the UK on both the high street and in shopping centres,” said The Entertainer’s Founder and MD, Gary Grant. “We are really excited to be expanding our retail base early on in 2017, and are particularly excited to be opening our first toy shop in Cornwall.”

New warehouses for Amazon Amazon is to open three fulfilment centres in the UK this year, in Tilbury, Doncaster and Daventry. The new warehouses will be used to keep up with the online retail giant’s growth in the UK, which is its second biggest market outside the US, behind only Germany. The openings will also further speed up delivery times and improve fulfilment for its third-party sellers and retailers. Amazon’s UK Country Manager, Doug Gurr, said: “We are creating thousands of new UK jobs including hundreds of apprenticeship opportunities as we continue to innovate for our customers.”

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 15:49

High five for Aldi Value retailer Aldi has jumped above Co-op to become the UK’s fifthlargest grocer, according to Kantar’s latest grocery market report. With 6.2 per cent of the market share, it sits just below the big four — Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons — climbing from tenth place in just a decade. The supermarket chain’s rapid growth looks set to continue, with more and more consumers choosing to shop there. Aldi welcomed over 800,000 more shoppers through

its doors in the last quarter than it did in the same period last year. Fraser McKevitt, Head of Retail and Consumer Insight at Kantar said Aldi’s growth was “impressive”. Meanwhile, Morrisons was the biggest winner of the big four, growing its share of the market for the first time in nearly two years. Waitrose, Lidl and Iceland also saw positive trajectories, with the frozen food specialist in particular posting record sales growth for the tenth consecutive period.

Ice, ice baby! Lidl teamed with 20th Century Fox Consumer Products for the launch of an infant apparel line inspired by the Ice Age movie series. The Ice Age Baby launch comes on the heels of 20th Century Fox Consumer Products and Lidl’s comprehensive summer Ice Age promotion across Europe. The collection features looks for both boys and girls ages 3-24 months that highlight the franchise’s most beloved characters, and will be available in stores and online across Europe. Sandra Vauthier-Cellier, SVP of Consumer Products EMEA for Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products said: “Following the success of our summer 2016 Ice Age promotion we are thrilled to once again partner with Lidl to launch a line for our littlest fans across Europe.”

Display of power Toymaster has launched a new window display for March celebrating the Power Rangers movie and Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir. Bandai is the master toy partner for both of these top properties. Members of the buying group can opt in to receiving all the materials for this striking window display, which also highlights giving a gift for Mother’s Day. The window display will be supported by Toymaster with a social media campaign on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MARCH 2017 News Retail.indd 2

Asda’s on the up Asda’s struggling sales took a turn for the better during the fourth quarter of 2016, as losses slowed to a trickle. Sales dropped 2.9 per cent in the final three months of last year, a marked improvement on the 5.8 per cent slide in the third quarter and 7.5 per cent drop in the three months prior to that. An “encouraged” Sean Clarke, Asda’s chief executive, said: “We are putting customers first and have sharpened our prices, improved our ranges and availability, all with friendly service.” Doug McMillon, chief executive of the supermarket’s US owner Walmart, added: “In the UK, we faced some challenges this past year… I’m glad store sales improved during the fourth quarter, but we have a lot of work to do.”

The great divide A consumer attitudes study by retail services company BookingBug has found almost half of all consumers use high street stores as their main shopping channel. The Modern Consumer survey found that while 95 per cent of shoppers rely on multiple channels when shopping — with 70 per cent heading online to research products — only 15 per cent of those chose to shop for the majority of their goods online. Many retailers have decried the impact online retail has had on offline revenues. But Glenn Shoosmith, BookingBug chief executive, said: “As any retailer worth their salt understands, the two channels aren’t exclusive. In fact more and more often shoppers are switching between the two.”

03/03/2017 15:49

RETAIL AIS

Independently talking What: Independent Toy & Gift Show When: Tuesday 4 – Wednesday 5 April 2017 Where: Cranmore Park, Solihull, B90 4LE

With 30 years in the industry under his belt, AIS’ Miles Penhallow is a well-known figure within the toy trade. He talks to TnP about the strength of the AIS buying group, and how the Independent Toy & Gift Show is continuing to grow and develop Miles, tell us a little about AIS for those unfamiliar with what you are and what you do.

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We pride ourselves on the quality of our show and offer a genuine welcome to all visiting independent buyers

plaY-room is the toy division of a much larger buying group known as Associated Independent Stores (AIS). Our primary function is to offer support services and to increase profitability for the members of this association, which in the majority of cases

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are department stores and garden centres. We also extend these services to other independent bricks and mortar toy retailers. Based in the West Midlands, AIS has surpassed 30 years of service to the independent retail trade and, of course, we run the Independent Toy & Gift Show.

How was 2016 for AIS members? Our members’ invoiced business grew by 5.5 per cent in 2016, helped by the strength of collectables and a multitude of children-related film properties.

Visitors to the AIS show can expect a busy two days

The Independent Toy and Gift show has been growing at a rate of knots in the past few years. Why do you think that is?

Fact! LEGO, K’Nex, Geomag, Engino and Magformers are just some of the companies exhibiting in 2017

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It was also refreshing to see a hot property such as Hatchimals selling at the full recommended retail in the run up to Christmas in nearly all retailers.

While other national shows in the UK are losing key exhibitors, our show continues to receive their valued support. Our aim has always been to put the independent buyer first. We strive to make their visit as pleasant as possible and hence registration, parking and refreshments are all free.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 15:51

Fact! The theme for this year’s show is STEM

What would you like to do or what are you already working on to take this show to the next level for 2018? Miles with members of the AIS team

Did you know…

Although we will continue to grow our show moving forward, we do not want to lose the unique ambience we have successfully created. As always, our aim will be quality and not quantity.

Exhibitors will be offering special single product ‘Show Stopper’ deals to all visitors while stocks last.

We hear there are more exhibitor stands than ever before. What new exhibitors can we expect to see and what do they add to the show?

visiting independent buyers. Exhibitors will be offering special single product ‘Show Stopper’ deals to all visitors while stocks last.

Our intention has always been to blend in children’s lifestyle suppliers with our existing toy suppliers and as a result we have had to add more stands. We look forward to welcoming Funko UK, Bertoy and Steiff, among others, as first time attendees. A full exhibitor list is available on our website, www.independenttoyandgift.co.uk.

What’s your highlight of the show each year?

STEM is this year’s theme. Why STEM and what can visitors expect to see from the theme it at the show? Following the introduction of a theme for last year’s show, we have chosen STEM for the 2017 theme. There has been a healthy growth in this category and our construction companies include LEGO, K’Nex, Geomag, Engino and Magformers.

For retailers and buyers who have yet to visit. What can they expect and what makes your show special? We are fortunate to have a wonderful facility at our disposal conveniently located in the middle of the country with excellent transport links. We pride ourselves on the quality of our show and offer a genuine welcome to all

MARCH 2017 Retail Interview AIS.indd 2

Although we continue to improve the show for both visitors and exhibitors, it is inevitably the quality of our hot lunches that we are remembered for!

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Even though we continue to improve the show experience for both visitors and exhibitors, it is inevitably the quality of our hot lunches that we are remembered for!

LEGO Batman

” Bandai

MILES SAYS… “I am in a fortunate position to have attended a number of supplier previews and I was particularly impressed with Glimmies from Flair, Bandai’s range for the Power Rangers movie range, and Little Live Pets Ladybugs from Character Options.”

03/03/2017 15:51

RETAIL AIS

Did you know… Funko UK, Bertoy and Steiff are among the first time attendees to the 2017 show

The Independent Toy & Gift Show is based at Cranmore Park, Solihull

What is the general outlook for the toy industry in 2017 from your members? The popular terminology in the toy trade is that it will be ‘challenging’. Independents are faced with unprecedented promotional activity from the grocery sector during peak sale months and the growing threat of the discounters. Retail prices will have to rise due to low exchange rates but fortunately most toys are sold at comparatively low retail prices.

The show is a favourite with many retailers

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Our intention has always been to blend in children’s lifestyle suppliers with our existing toy suppliers

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You were a toy buyer for your own family-run department store in a former life. What has piqued your interest and stood out so far this year? I am in a fortunate position to have attended a number of supplier previews and I was particularly impressed with Glimmies from Flair, Bandai’s range for the Power Rangers movie range, and Little Live Pets Ladybugs from Character Options.

accurate depiction of the popular film character.

You joined the toy industry 30 years ago this year! What keeps the excitement and interest? Being paid to do the job I enjoy helps! Seriously, the toy industry is forever evolving with so many new products available to buy each year. I guess I am just a big kid at heart! Miles is impressed with Glimmies from Flair

And what about licensed toys? What are AIS members most excited about? I hope that both The Power Rangers Movie and Cars 3 result in strong toy sales.

What’s your personal favourite brand or toy — recently or even from your childhood. It has to be the original electronic Buzz Lightyear which was so well crafted and such an

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03/03/2017 15:51

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10/02/2017 11:52

THE INDEPENDENT

OPINION

Fair is fair Where is the camaraderie?, asks our columnist

your head spin. I mentioned one strategy we would be working on is buying more into FOB product as this is where I make decent money on branded goods, and I have to thank my buying group for making this possible. Another area is reducing my ranges to free up shelf space. This is a big problem and reducing ranges across all brands will naturally aid my overall spending by bringing it down in what is set to be the most difficult of VOLUME: years. This 1) LEGO Batman Minifigures – LEGO will force 2) Pokémon Sun & Moon Boosters – Esdevium me to look 3) Num Noms Light Up Mystery Packs – MGA at every line I am VALUE: potentially 1) LEGO Batman Minifigures – LEGO going to 2) Pokémon Sun & Moon Boosters – Esdevium purchase 3) Num Noms Light Up Mystery Packs – MGA and really work hard on choosing

ast month I wrote about 2017 being a challenge for all independent retailers. But I explained I am up for the task ahead and am taking steps to ensure my business is in a good position. We are looking at things pragmatically and changing them to suit the current market. To recap quickly, the barriers were the exchange rates, retailer margin being squeezed, some retailers selling at way below cost price and so many new ranges it would make

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I have learned that the total independent sector amounts to about one per cent of the total spend on toys. That’s not a typo

Best sellers:

THE SECRET SUPPLIER

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what I think the best ones are. This is not good news for the suppliers I work with, as inevitably spend will be down, even if I sell more of one line, it isn’t likely to be more than two previous lines. However, things are too difficult in retail and I have to do what is right for my business. But then again, why do I feel the need to justify this? More and more suppliers are ignoring me and my needs, so why should I worry about

Everything to fight for It is all about approaching something in the correct way, says our Secret Supplier

The Independent.indd 1

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and overheads Mr Independent that can’t easily describes a visit to a be changed. The ability to supplier who has a be able to react room that contains to changing only products for consumer discounters. Mr demand quickly Independent is is a strategic advantage enjoyed keeping the wrong primarily by the company! What is he independent retail doing working with a sector. supplier like that? There is no reason to believe that in cash terms toy volume will be less in 2017, although with higher

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he Independent’s feature this month focuses on the challenges of 2017 but perhaps he is not seeing the real opportunities? Yes, as The Independent highlights 2017 will be a challenge for all independent retailers, but importantly it will be a much bigger challenge for his high street competitors. As an independent, he has the key advantage of flexibility whereas his big competitors will be locked into seasonal promotional plans plus big inventory commitments and, more importantly, they will have big costs

average prices unit sales may well be down so there is everything to fight for in the coming year. A key asset in that fight will be, as Mr Independent rightly points out, the nature of the relationship he enters into with his most important suppliers. It is a sad fact of life that the trend in recent years has been for all independent retail sectors to be in decline as consumers chase down discounted prices from all retail sectors. Toys are no exception but Mr Independent is wrong to imply that suppliers aren’t worried about this trend.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 15:53

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Things are too difficult in retail and I have to do what is right for my business

anything other than myself? I have been in business for a long time, and would like to think I have seen it all in some way or another. But on top of that I have been in business long enough to know how important strong relationships are, and focusing on key relationships can really add value to your business and make your entire operation better. These relationships only work if both parties are working together,

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and I am sorry to say that in 2017 less and less seem to be willing to work alongside every type of retailer. They are simply doing what they feel is right for their business, which ultimately means the independent retailers gets put upon. The first thing to get out of the way is the percentage of our market share against the rest of the industry. From experience I have learned that the total independent sector amounts to about one per cent of the total spend on toys. That’s not a typo, it is actually that low. But, I am going to go out on a limb to say I am speaking on behalf of every toy specialist, and that makes our piece of the pie somewhat bigger and worth considering. A positive working relationship between two parties would commonly use terms like; “I’m not sure about that but I’ll give it a go”, “I don’t think it’ll stand that retail price but I’ll try a small amount and see”, “that wouldn’t really be the kind of thing we would sell but let’s take some in and see what our customers think”, and “you have to be kidding me, you are launching that when this range is on fire? OK, I will support you on it and see if it gains any traction”. All of these gestures used to give suppliers and retailers a working partnership, but they are being eroded on a daily basis by the decisions that are being made by

suppliers. I stand on my shop floor and gain all of the knowledge I need about who is working with me and who is taking my money to fund their special deals with someone else. Customers are only too happy to let me know how much I am ripping them off, but now I get the same information up front from suppliers when they tell me: “you can have this in six months once someone else has had it and taken all the meat off it”. I was in a showroom recently when we walked passed a room and I asked why we were not going in there, only to be told that it was a special room of products for the discounters! I said I must have misheard but they just repeated it and moved on. So I stopped them and tried to make my point (to no avail) that this particular discounter has caused massive issues in the trade, and not only do suppliers seem happy to trade merrily with them, they create bespoke ranges in special rooms and use that as a justification that they are working with the whole trade for a mutual benefit?! Where is my secret room of bespoke products? No doubt the products in this room are value offerings, hence it being for a discounter, which simply means that there will be branded products on their shelves that customers will most likely think are the same as my branded ones but cheaper! Good job Mr Supplier, any other bright ideas?

Toymaster is all about positive partnership

Even if their share of market has declined for many suppliers the independent sector accounts for nearly 10 per cent of total volume and that is a huge amount of business that should never be ignored. Mr Independent describes a visit to a supplier who has a room that contains only products for discounters. Mr Independent is keeping the wrong company! What is he doing working with a supplier like that? Time spent developing good relations with positive minded suppliers is truly a worthwhile investment Any reputable supplier will always be keen to work with independent retailers, and Toymaster is a good example of what can be achieved through positive partnership.

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Mr Independent is wrong to imply that suppliers aren’t worried

Toy Barnhaus are a great example of how to do things, says our Secret Supplier

MARCH 2017 The Independent.indd 2

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Despite the steady decline in recent years of family-owned independent toy retailers there is occasionally great encouraging news like the success of Toy Barnhaus where two gentlemen have worked extremely hard and diligently to build up an expanding and successful business. Along the way I would like to think that many suppliers have willingly worked closely with this up and coming independent retailer thereby highlighting Mr Independent’s important point about the value of supplier relationships. The coming year will be tough but the independent retailer has the advantage of flexibility and speed to market and with a positive attitude he will get plenty of cooperation from suppliers who are keen to help independent retailers maintain their market share.

03/03/2017 15:53

The Puppet Company Ltd. The

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www.thepuppetcompany.com Tel: +44 (0) 1462 446040 TNP - The Puppet Company - Advert Template - New.indd 26 Puppet Co.indd 1

2/17/2017 12:30:06 PM 20/02/2017 14:34

COVER FEATURE MOOKIE

The full Mookie

TP’s Early Fun Play Centre

It is an exciting time for Mookie Toys, along with an impressive outdoor range from TP Toys, it has some exciting offerings in plush and arts & crafts. TnP finds out more…

his year is set be a big one for Mookie Toys as the company looks to build on recent growth in the plush and arts & crafts categories, as well as its new partnership with Silverlit. Despite success in these areas, Mookie hasn’t forgotten about its biggest strength — outdoor toys. TP Toys is one of Mookie’s most successful and established brands, specialising in trampolines, climbing frames and swing sets for over 50 years. The brand’s popularity with retailers and consumers is due to a range of high quality innovative products. Offering up to 10 years guarantee and a whole host of patents protecting the pioneering designs, TP Toys ensure that its outdoor range stands out from the competition. For 2017, TP will be supported with a TV campaign as well as PR and online activity throughout the key months.

And there is more…

Let’s play In the past couple of years, TP Toys has capitalised on the demand and growing popularity for children’s wooden playhouses. By developing a wide range of original designs with amazing play value, TP has been able to rapidly grow this area of the brand. For 2017, TP will be building on this success with a new range of beautifully painted playhouses. This offers the key advantage that parents will no longer be required to pre-treat the wood in order to prevent weather damage, as well as a more aesthetically pleasing design.

Perfect for pre-school

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For 2017, TP will be supported with a TV campaign as well as PR

TP Toys will be introducing the Early Fun Play Centre for 2017, the latest in a long history of innovation around creating active play products for the pre-school market. This is the perfect outdoor toy for children as young as six months, helping to get them active, moving and exploring the world. Complete with a foldaway baby swing seat, slide and sandpit, the Early Fun Play Centre offers a wide range of TP’s mini bouncer gives amazing play patterns. Keeping with this focus on the hours of fun pre-school market, 2017 will see the launch of TP’s new innovative Mini Bouncer. Designed to offer a high quality first trampoline for children as young as 12 months it is perfect for developing pre-schoolers balance and coordination. The Mini Bouncer also includes some unique features, flip the Mini Bouncer to transform it into a ball pit or fold down the legs to make it compact and easy to store away.

MARCH 2017 Cover Story Mookie.indd 1

Plush Craft is sure to be a favourite

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In addition to some exciting new launches for the TP brand, Mookie is also set to expand its plush and arts & crafts offering with new brands including; Spray Art, Fluffables, Plush Craft and Scented Pillow Pets. Each of these new brands with be launched with a heavyweight TV campaign, supported with PR, online and in store activity. Spray Art allows children to get creative as they paint with an airbrush. Simply attach the pen to the airbrush and spray onto anything from paper to a t-shirt. With stencils included children can easily create colourful designs. With Fluffables children can create their own super soft animal, by attaching colourful fluff and accessories to the mould. There is loads of Fluffables to collect and a mystery accessory in each set. Plush Craft allows children to create and personalise 3D characters and soft pillows by attaching colourful fabric with no sewing or glue required. Mookie’s hugely successful Pillow Pets brand is back with a bang in 2017, with the launch of Sweet Scented Pillow Pets. Each of these cuddly characters’ smell of a different sweet treat, including gummy bears, cookies and candy floss. Just like the original designs, these characters are made from super soft chenille and with the pop of the strap convert from a cuddly character to comfy pillow.

Contact Mookie! Pillow Pets are now scented

Tel: 01525 722722 Web: www.mookie.co.uk

03/03/2017 15:54

WHAT’S N Brand spanking new launches from top toy companies to help you sell more!

Movie magic HASBRO

020 8569 1234 www.hasbro.com

Did you know... Young and older fans alike will love rediscovering the world of Beauty and the Beast with the line of Hasbro dolls and figures inspired by the live-action film, featuring Belle and the Beast and their pack of lively, enchanted household objects – Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, Chip and Plumette

March 2017 sees the highly-anticipated release of Beauty and the Beast, the timeless tale with unforgettable music starring Emma Watson, Ian McKellan, Ewan McGregor and Dan Stevens, and with it Hasbro welcomes the Beauty and the Beast Enchanting Melodies Belle and Village Dress Belle. Featuring details inspired by the film for children to imagine playing out their favourite moments, the Enchanting Melodies Belle is robed in her golden gown, with beautiful glitter detailing, a removable necklace and pair of shoes. Kids can relive the most enchanting moments from the film, such as when Belle realises there may be more to the Beast than she first thought, and sing along with Belle by pressing her stomach to hear the classic song “Something There” from the live-action film. With Village Dress Belle, she wears her iconic blue dress with removable shoes and fans can recreate their favourite fairy-tale moments from the live-action film and imagine their own stories.

A magnetic draw FIESTA CRAFTS

020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

Did you know… 24

What's New.indd 1

The Magnetic Activity Box was named Best New Creative Toy 2017 at London Toy Fair!

The Magnetic Activity Box from Fiesta Crafts encourages children to create their own artistic masterpieces with the contents of the box. Each part of the box is useful. The lid is a double-sided magnetic board, one side is a blackboard and the other is a whiteboard. The box itself holds over 70 chunky, colourful and magnetic wooden pieces which is ideal for little hands, as well as chalk, dry wipe markers, and cue cards. Children can place the pieces on the board to create their own artwork. Fiesta Crafts also received lots of attention at Toy Fair and Spring Fair by exhibiting their exciting Stickabouts range using a colourful water feature. The small waterfall over a glass pane showed how the Stickabouts can be placed on any smooth surface, wet or dry.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 15:56

NEW

Fact! The Hyper Stunt Drone is suitable for ages 8+.

Hogging the air SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmaster.com The Air Hogs Hyper Stunt Drone from Spin Master is a high speed indoor stunt quad with a removable roller cage making this drone crash resistant and unstoppable on any surface. Watch it as it rolls up walls, across ceilings and along the ground.

Game on for Barbie! MATTEL 01628 500 000 www.mattel.com

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The new entertainment release is brought to life with a vibrant toy line inspired by the game including a Barbie Video Game Hero Light-up Skates Barbie Doll

Barbie kicks off Q1 with a bold and dynamic new feature film, Barbie Video Game Hero! Available on DVD and Digital Download, this fast-paced new adventure re-imagines Barbie in an energetic video game world along with her new friend Cutie, the lovable cloud-shaped character, and Bella, the roller-skating princess. Supported with an extensive marketing and retail programme, this major release for spring includes a TV campaign, PR activation with girl influencer programme plus an exciting new partnership with Just Dance, the dance game franchise published by Ubisoft, including a fun new Barbie level update within the game. The new entertainment release is brought to life with a vibrant toy line inspired by the game including a Barbie Video Game Hero Light-up Skates Barbie Doll complete with fantastic features including 360-degree spins controlled by a matching handle, and roller skates that light up in flashing multicolours. The Barbie Video Game Hero Barbie Doll represents the film’s Barbie real world gamer look, while the Barbie Video Game Hero Match Game Princess Doll inspired by the co-lead character Bella’s Video Game Hero anime look hides a fun, interactive, pattern and light memory game. The range is further supported by the Barbie costar Dolls Assortment, and cute 2D world-inspired Barbie Video Game Junior Doll Assortment, and the Barbie Video Game Hero Vehicle and Figure Play Set.

”

This will tickle your fancy TOMY 01392 281928 www.tomy.com Tomy’s Tickle Me Feet proved to be a huge success at London Toy Fair with live demonstrations from the famous Pirate Pete — star of the best selling Pop Up Pirate and Tomy’s brand new game! Launching in July, the new game challenges players to collect treasure by completing tasks during the allotted time while trying not to laugh as the other players tickle their feet. The winner is the player with the most treasure. Tomy will continue to feature lots of surprises and expand its children’s games portfolio by creating quirky games like the award winning Fizzy Dizzy Hippo, a hilarious game sure to inspire a lot of laughter, Phil the Fridge — a fast-paced fun for all the family and two new Pop Up games with hottest licenses from Minions and Star Wars.

Fact! Tickle Me Feet launches in July and players have to tickle each others feet!

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03/03/2017 15:56

RETAIL

OPINION

Toy talk Retailers are important to us here at TnP. We love chatting to them each month to get industry insights into what is selling well and we ask some key questions...

LINDA ROBINSON

BRETT JARVIS

Grovers Toymaster, Northallerton, North Yorkshire

Eko Toys, Maldon, Essex

Family run business Grovers has been going since 1968 — that’s nearly 50 years!

The Eko Toys team love experimenting with their window displays, and are currently inundated with Pokémon requests. What has been selling well for you in the opening months of the year? PJ Masks has been great so far, and Playmobil has been selling well — we have new lines from them coming over the next few weeks. Pokémon has just continued to be phenomenal, too. We only sell the TCG currently, but they fly out the door. With a glut of anticipated movies hitting cinemas in 2017, how important are movie licenses to you and what’s looking big for this year? We’ve ordered the FSDU for Despicable Me 3. We didn’t have that much Minions product when the last film came out, but what we did have sold out. Hopefully it’s the same again this time. We tend to stick with Flair’s FSDUs, and they work great. What’s currently in your shop window display, how often do you rotate it and how do you choose? There’s all sorts at the minute: Shopkins season 7, Grossery Gang, PJ Masks, Playmobil, and various Interplay lines. It’s always interesting to just try different things — something random every now and then. If you have a great line that for whatever reason isn’t selling, putting it in a window display will almost always help the sales begin to roll in.

HELEN BELLENIE Toys n Trends, Tankerton, Kent Toys n Trends isn’t just a toy shop — the team also hold workshops and parties to get footfall flowing and offer local kids a creative outlet. What has been selling well for you in the opening months of the year? Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty has been very popular, but it’s Pokémon that continues to do really well. We have the cards from Esdevium, along with plush and Pokéballs from Tomy, books, boxes — all of it! We also host Pokémon workshops, so kids come down to trade their cards, make Pokémon-themed t-shirts and have a great time. For girls, YooHoo and Depesche’s Top Model are our absolute biggest sellers. 26

Toy Talk.indd 1

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we chat with retailers around the country to see what is selling, and what movies they think will make an impact this year

What has been selling well for you in the opening months of the year? LEGO, LEGO, LEGO, and that’s across all the launches! Schleich’s new lines are selling well for us too, particularly the play sets. With a glut of anticipated movies hitting cinemas in 2017, how important are movie licenses to you and what’s looking big for this year? We do look at the new movies and order a selection of related licensed products. But we have been caught out in the past, so we don’t get too carried away these days. What’s currently in your shop window display, how often do you rotate it and how do you choose? We have new lines in the window at present. There’s LEGO, Playmobil and PJ Masks, all of which we often have to swap as we sell out! As Toymaster members we generally change the display every four weeks and use their chosen assets, but if we decide not to go with their choice, we look at stock levels and promotions and go from there.

With a glut of anticipated movies hitting cinemas in 2017, how important are movie licenses to you and what’s looking big for this year? We do have a healthy mix, although as a small independent it’s a case of limited space for us. We do keep our eyes on all the upcoming films, because even if we don’t stock the licensed lines, they usually indirectly help our sales. For instance, when a movie about dinosaurs is in the cinemas, we make sure to order more dinosaur-themed toys as we know they will sell. What’s currently in your shop window display, how often do you rotate it and how do you choose? I’ve just this second changed it to our first outdoor toys display of the year. There’s a bit of everything really: Smackerz, which are great! Nerf, Little Ripperz Gliders, Moonballs. We try to switch it up every few weeks or so and always make sure to dedicate some space to the latest craze, like Pokémon or Minecraft.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 15:59

LEE BORASTERO Kids Stuff Toymaster, Wells, Somerset The Kids Stuff team are celebrating 19 years in their store this month. One of owner Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relatives recently opened a toy shop in Gibraltar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So I guess you could almost call us international,â&#x20AC;? he jokes.

Tweet Talk Share your thoughts with us and keep up to date with all things TnP on Twitter @toysnplaythings

What has been selling well for you in the opening months of the year? Across the board, LEGO is still the big thing for us. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a massive part of our annual turnover. Playmobil is another great brand, and then generally weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been selling plenty of role-play, dolls, and science sets. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really quite lucky where we are, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about a 45-mile round trip to the nearest toy shop from us. With a glut of anticipated movies hitting cinemas in 2017, how important are movie licenses to you and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking big for you this year? Primarily itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the licensed LEGO sets â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what our customers want. So far this year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had great sales from The LEGO Batman Movie ranges and more recently Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only had the Guardians range in for one day and already weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve sold a handful of sets. Other than that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TV licensed lines that work for us â&#x20AC;&#x201D; mainly PAW Patrol, Teletubbies and Peppa Pig.

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VOLKSWAGEN BBQ HAMPER VOLKSWAGEN TOASTER

MARCH 2017 Toy Talk.indd 2

03/03/2017 15:59

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Get your game face Games and puzzles is an all-time favourite category – not just for shoppers who snap them up, but for retailers too and after a healthy 2016, there are high hopes for this year

o, you’re selling games and puzzles — it’s an evergreen category, a consistent performer, but you want to keep it fresh, you want to keep stock moving from the shop floor — how do Growth you do it and what do has really consumers want? Remarkably, when it comes stepped up a to games and puzzles, the notch in the category never seems to get stale. It has all the right last year or ingredients; it’s family friendly, two it’s fast moving, it’s considered value for money and most of Steve all, it’s entertaining. Buckmaster, The category has benefitted Esdevium from consistently strong growth figures — take 2016 where it was up 21 per cent, according to NPD. In fact, the majority of suppliers we speak to say the same thing — there is growth in games and puzzles. That is probably why the behemoth that is

Paul Lamond

“

Character Options has decided to dip its toe into the pool, and you can be sure it isn’t going to launch into a category that is not performing.

The numbers add up Jumbo Games’ MD Stewart Middleton tells us the company remains the UK’s number one adult puzzle manufacturer (NPD FY 2016) and not only that, it saw growth throughout the year. “Our adult puzzles sales have grown over the past year — Falcon de luxe grew at 26 per cent, our Puzzle Mates jigsaw accessories range grew eight per cent last year and Wasgij continued to grow also. This year we are already seeing doubledigit growth for these three adult puzzle brands, which is fantastic,” says Stewart, but he is realistic too, admitting children’s games and puzzles has been “challenging for us with certain licenses taking a huge share”.

He tells us: “Retailers continue to be selective in what new licenses they run in-store and what existing licenses to back. For us Peppa continues to be very strong and our new Thomas puzzles have got off to a great start!” Another company enjoying growth in the category is Vivid with its games division enjoying sales over 10 per cent up on 2015. “We have seen growth across all games categories with success stories in adult, family, kids and preschool games,” Marketing Director Mary Wood tells TnP. Vivid isn’t the only ones excited about prospects for the coming year, Esdevium’s MD Steve Buckmaster points out that the games category is enjoying “a real growth period right now”. Encouragingly, he tells us: “We have been seeing this trend for a number of years in our sales, but the growth has really stepped up a notch in the last year or two. On NPD, games were at +21 per cent for 2016 and that is at least consistent with the growth we have seen across our portfolio.” It’s been a strong year for Paul Lamond too with MD Richard Wells revealing: “We have had a very good twelve months, with strong

In 2016, Games and Puzzles was the fastest growing super category in the UK, up +21% or +£42M reaching £242M sales. Source: NPD Toys Retail Tracking 2016

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Character Options Clementoni

New kids on the block

and consistent sales across our entire portfolio. The popularity of board games is certainly on the increase and we have seen this reflected in sales over the last year.” John Adams retained its position as number three games manufacturer in the UK with MD Simon Pilkington echoing that 2016 was a strong year for games. “Our growth in the category was boosted by hugely successful new lines such as Silly Sausage and Soggy Doggy, and underpinned by heritage classics including Rubik’s, Rummikub, Othello and Triominos,” he tells TnP, adding the company is “looking forward to 2017 with some fantastic new

As most will know, Character Options has decided to dip its toe into the games and puzzles category with four games — undoubtedly a new venture for them. Marketing Manager Mark Hunt says consumers are looking for games which are “fun, innovative and that can be played together with friends and family, this seems to be the winning formula at this time. We have a number of titles launching this year that deliver on these points: Boom Blast Stix is an explosive high risk game with a real surprise element and with Five Night at Freddy’s growing popularity we have a scare game that has the shock factor! Name It! is our pop culture audio trivia game and is highly competitive and then we have the Piston Cup Race Game which has a classic and proven play pattern to support the Cars 3 film launch.” Character Options say it’s taking a “multifaceted” approach for the launch of each new games title. Mark tells us more: “A number of titles have some very innovative Try Me features that actually challenge the consumer to a number of mini games, which should lead to them wanting more. Others will be given off-shelf presence via FSDUs or high impact and interactive POS. However we also have a targeted consumer marketing plan for each title across TV, digital, YouTube and unboxing that will drive brand awareness and drive consumers into retail to search for these games.”

“

From our research we have seen that there is still a place, despite lots of new technology, for a traditional family game Mary Wood, Vivid

family fun games in the pipeline including Giggle Wiggle, Mr Bucket, Don’t be a Donkey and Tetris Dual.” The same can be said for games specialist Bananagrams with Top Banana Rena Nathanson revealing the category has been “growing consistently year on year”. “We are excited to have substantially grown our international markets over the past 12 months, adding more than 14 different territories,” Rena tells TnP. “We have added a number of new products to our range, which includes Grown by Bananagrams products — games that we develop in-house — and Picked by Bananagrams products, which are games we prospect and distribute from other developers.”

What do consumers want? With all this positivity in the sector, it is sometimes easy to forget that innovation is still needed to move

Did you know… Esdevium launched Dobble six years ago and are incredibly proud of its development Vivid

MARCH 2017 Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 2

03/03/2017 16:08

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES things forward, and crucial to that is establishing what buyers actually want. So, what do the manufacturers think? Rena tells us she feels the toy-buying public’s needs Our adult have remained the same. puzzles sales “I feel the wants and needs of the consumer have not really have grown changed that much over the over the past years. The core strengths that timeless classic games offer year… This are still very much in demand. Family time, year we are gameplay which spans all already ages, the fast and interactive and, of course, educational seeing spins — these all add double-digit different dimensions.”

“

And there is more!

growth, which is fantastic

”

Getting kids away from the constant allure of screens is Stewart another plus for the Middleton, category, says John Adam’s Jumbo Games Simon. “Consumers recognise and value the benefits that games can offer away from the abundance of screens; whether it’s as simple as learning to take turns with fun action games, or encouraging more strategic thinking and problem solving with games like Othello and the Rubik’s Cube.”

Jumbo Games

The millions of units which Bananagrams’ flagship game has sold globally.

Quality is another important factor, says Paul Lamond’s Richard Wells: “Customers who enjoy board games are really looking for a high quality, good value, fun and entertaining activity that the whole family can enjoy. When it comes to preschool games, recognised licenses with an educational value such

Fact! After more than 40 years in the industry, Rubik’s Cube continues to perform well for John Adams. “It has strong heritage and a retro appeal which makes it a great gift for all ages,” says Simon Pilkington. “There’s a certain magic to it and to be able to say that you can solve it is still impressive.”

Fiesta Crafts

as our new We’re Going on a Bear Hunt 4-in-1 Games Cube, also plays a big part.”

Games that give value Value for money is another crucial element which can’t be forgotten, as Esdevium’s Steve reminds us. “I think consumers want value for money, but we see that they are also prepared for games they believe will deliver good experience. I think games are actually getting played more now as well, which is encouraging.” Bringing it back to basics is Vivid, with Mary Wood explaining: “There have been some great games released over the past year that prove consumers are just looking to have a really fun time! From our research we have seen there is still a place, despite lots of new technology, for a traditional family game… an area Drumond Park is very good at.” Gibsons’ Sales Director Nicki Gumbrell says consumers are looking for a combination of things. “For traditional puzzlers it’s all about the image and the sense of escapism they experience when piecing together the painting. However, our Iconic Brands Collection is aimed at a different kind of puzzler. We’ve teamed up with famous brands to create a range of puzzles that are packaged in replicas of some of the nation’s

The top item in 2016 was a game, Hasbro’s Pie Face. Source: NPD Toys Retail Tracking 2016

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FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Did you know… Vivid is launching a new game called Who’s the Dude — it’s a game of charades using a blow-up dude! favourite brands, such as Marmite, Pringles and VW. These jigsaws are anything but traditional; they are innovative, quirky and entertaining, and appeal to puzzlers of all ages and genders.”

Ravensburger

Stand-out appeal Often times, a challenge for retailers can be showcasing games and puzzles to their best advantage on the shop floor. A square box doesn’t cut it all the time. “We have been in the board game business for almost 100 years, so we know a thing or two about the best way to For merchandise boxed retailers it is products,” laughs Gibsons’ Nicki. “We ensure that our all about shelf branding is consistent and space and so that each product is easily recognisable as a Gibsons. We compact eyealso offer a wide array of free catching POS items.” And how does Vivid tackle packaging is the issue? “Merchandising can what they are definitely be a challenge with games,” says Mary. “Many looking for retailers add additional space for the AW period and Richard Wells, therefore on most occasions, Paul Lamond the front of the box is shown and the product on offer is therefore at its most attractive to consumers. As more and more consumers are turning to online shopping, especially

“

”

in the AW season, this gives us an excellent opportunity to present our games in an even better light, fully supporting them with additional information, product photography, 360 degree pack imagery and TV adverts.” From Jumbo’s point of view, MD Stewart says the company is “investing in more POS in-store, which is certainly one of the easier wins because it will improves awareness of the products to consumers, letting them know they are available and still very popular. Also we have recently refreshed our packaging on Falcon.” On top of that, Stewart says Jumbo sees the most success when “retailers merchandise licensed product all together, as it makes it easier for the consumer to locate and identify the licensed product they want, rather than looking in different areas of a store.” He adds that the company has “invested heavily in product videos and content to help retailers maximise sales of Jumbo products.”

Showcasing product

Gibsons

Esdevium’s Steve concedes that showcasing games and puzzles on shelves can be a tough thing to do but they strive to help retailers. “For some games we have developed POS displays to give them a bigger presence on shelf and

prevent them from becoming lost in a games wall. With the considerable recent and ongoing growth in games as a percentage of overall toy sales, it would be great to see retailers expanding their range and the way they display games to better reflect this.” Bananagrams takes a unique approach to its packaging, as Rena explains: “We strive to produce unique fabric packaging and try to avoid typical packaging such as boxes. If we are pushed to use a box, it certainly won’t be square! The colour palette is just as important to us.” Packaging is “key”, agrees Paul Lamond’s Richard Wells. “For retailers it is all about shelf space so compact eye-catching packaging is what they are looking for.” Agreeing that “there is a lot of competition within the retail space for games”, John Adams’ Simon explains that the company ensures all of its games “are supported by strong promotional campaigns, which include TV, VOD, YouTube and digital advertising, PR, influencer outreach and social media, to raise brand awareness, coupled with eye-catching product packaging that’s designed to guarantee that the brand is then easily recognisable on shelf.” As the category continues to grow, and with new players entering the field, we can’t wait to see which direction games and puzzles goes in next.

Fact! Peppa Pig is Jumbo Games’ best-selling children’s license in games and puzzles, while Wasgij is its top seller in the adult category

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 4

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03/03/2017 15:26

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Bucket list JOHN ADAMS

01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk Fresh from a successful 2016 with the launch of hugely popular games Silly Sausage and Soggy Doggy, John Adams is expanding its established games portfolio for 2017. All games will be supported by strong TV / digital and PR campaigns from launch. Joining the range for autumn 2017, Mr Bucket is the original racing, chase the bucket game. Players aged four-plus must pick a colour and race to be the first to scoop up all of their coloured balls as Mr Bucket moves around the floor. The first person to complete the task and pick up Mr Bucket by his handle wins. Also joining the John Adams action games portfolio this year is Giggle Wiggle. Designed for children aged four-plus, players must press Giggle Wiggle’s button to watch him start dancing to the samba music. Then they must race to be the first to stack all of their

coloured balls on Giggle Wiggle’s hands as he twists and turns. Designed with hilarity in mind, Don’t be a Donkey provides plenty of laugh out loud fun for the whole family. In this fast-paced action game, players aged six-plus must wear their donkey headbands and pass the cards until they get a full house. At this point they shout “donkey!” and grab a carrot. The last person to react must lift up one of the donkey ears on their headband, and if a player misses out three times they lose and must wear the donkey mask. A twist on the retro classic, Tetris Dual brings the iconic video game to the table top. Featuring two thrilling games, players must go head to head in a strategic battle and race against the clock to create rows. The electronic unit keeps score until a winner is declared. A new challenge for the youngest Rubik’s fans, Rubik’s Junior is Rubik’s in animal form! Available as bear, bunny, cat and puppy characters, little ones can twist and turn the crazy animals to create wacky mixed-up characters, then keep twisting until they solve the puzzle and turn them back to their normal state. The award winning Doggie Doo also has a brand new look for 2017, featuring a cute dog and new and improved food.

Now that’s what I call fun! PAUL LAMOND 020 7254 0100 www.paul-lamond.com Some fantastic new lines from Paul Lamond Games are on the way this year. The games and puzzles specialist has unveiled more than 30 new products for 2017, includinag fun and exciting family board games Now That’s What I Call Music, Who Dares Wins and Silly Spaghetti. Now That’s What I Call Music is one of the most successful compilation album series of all time, and music fans can now test their musical knowledge with a brand new board game. The new Who Dares Wins board game is a game of lists, bidding dares and steals. Based on the hit TV show, this family game will have teams bidding and challenging on how many items they can name from a particular category list. Also joining Paul Lamond’s renowned family favourites such as Perudo and Who’s in the Bag will be Silly Spaghetti. The fast and exciting new

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 5

fork-spinning game will see players intently twirling their forks in an attempt to be the first to claim their spaghetti! The popularity of Murder Mystery Dinner Parties is on the increase, and Paul Lamond Games is adding an intriguing new title to its successful Murder Mystery portfolio. The brand new, six to eight player A Slice of Murder game will be available this summer, joining the thriving range that also includes The Brie, The Bullet and The Black Cat and The Diamonds, The Dagger, and One Classy Dame. There will also be four new and entertaining 1,000-piece That’s Life Spot the Difference puzzles available this spring. The fun-packed puzzles include Kitchen Chaos, Canal Commotion and Bar Bedlam. Paul Lamond Games will also make its debut into the world of magic this year in partnership with Britain’s Got Talent magician Jamie Raven. Four mind-blowing Magic Sets - Card Magic, Magic of the Mind, Street Magic and Sleight of Hand - will be available from March.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:10

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20/02/2017 14:26

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Coming up trumps WINNING MOVES 0207 298 9515 www.winningmoves.co.uk

Family fun TREFL

07850 779 797 (SJR Associates) www.trefl.com Trefl is the largest manufacturer of jigsaw puzzles, board games and playing cards in Central and Eastern Europe. Its range of merchandise also includes arts and crafts products. Trefl is a distributor of toys from leading world brands such as SIKU, vTech and Science4you to the Central and Eastern European market. The company has operated since 1985, and its products are sold in more than 50 countries all over the world. Jigsaw puzzles count for as many as 20 product lines from a total of over 500 SKUs. Treflâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to provide ideas for families and groups of friends to spend free time together and combine educational values with fun.

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 6

Winning Moves enjoyed a successful London Toy Fair and Spring Fair, showcasing a range of licensed products, including the new Disney Classics and WWE Top Trumps Quiz. With TV support, this instant knockout battle game with a twist became a huge success in 2016. The story continues with Top Trumps Match, the Crazy Cube Game. A new range of licensed products to be released in 2017 includes Shopkins, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Super Mario, Emotis, Despicable Me and DC Comics. With great buyer feedback and TV support for both Disney Princess and Marvel Avengers Top Trumps Match, this exciting snap-close, strategy game is fun for all ages. Winning Moves is also reviving six Retro Top Trumps titles, including football, horror and fantasy. For sheer nostalgia, the packs will include 30 cards with all the original artwork and come in a newly designed cassette-style case, presented in a cool retro CDU. Each pack will showcase its original production date, making it the perfect gift for those born in the same year.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:11

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The next big player in Children’s Games! Top 6 new Children’s Game*

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Fizzy Dizzy Hippo

*NPD 2016 EPOS Value Sales - December YTD 20/02/2017 14:22

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

A jumbo range JUMBO GAMES 01707 289289 www.jumbo.eu Following the launch of 90 brand new adult jigsaw puzzles, Jumbo is continuing to build on its solid start to the year with 15 new releases planned across its Wasgij, Falcon de luxe and Jan van Haasteren puzzle brands. Wasgij is commemorating its 20th anniversary throughout 2017, and Jumbo is re-releasing the very first Wasgij puzzles for new fans to enjoy. Branded in a specially designed Wasgij Retro packaging to maximise on-shelf presence, these new releases include the very first Wasgij Original 1, Destiny 1 and Mystery 1 1,000-piece puzzles. Looking ahead, June releases include the latest Wasgij Original 26, and Back to…? 3 1,000-piece puzzles, plus Christmas 13 2 x 1,000-piece box set. There will also be a special edition 20th Anniversary Wasgij Original 27 2 x 1,000-piece box set. Jumbo will also be adding 10 new Falcon de luxe puzzles to the much-loved collection in April. The new puzzles cover the traditional Falcon themes of Nostalgia, Scenery, Cottages, Animals and Transport, across varying piece

counts, from 200XL-piece up to 1,500-piece puzzles. Jumbo’s Disney Cars 3 range will launch in June. The range includes the entertaining and fun-fuelled Piston Cup Race Game along with an extensive puzzle range. Puzzles include Puzzle & Colour Box Set, Giant Floor Puzzle, 4in1 Shaped, 4in1 Bumper Pack and 4in1 Puzzle Box Sets, offering retail and consumers a variety of movie related products. To support the series launch of Disney’s Elena of Avalor, Jumbo has two brand new jigsaw puzzles in the popular 4in1 Shaped box set format and a great value 4in1 puzzle box set. Jumbo will also be introducing a brand-new Disney Mickey and the Roadster Racers and Disney Minnie’s Happy Helpers puzzles later this month, to support the TV launch of the new Disney Junior programmes. Other key new product launches include Jumbo’s Thomas & Friends foam puzzles, featuring a 4in1 Shaped Bath Puzzle and Large Foam Floor Puzzle – both ideal for pre-schoolers for inside and outdoor play. New additions to Jumbo’s Bob the Builder range of jigsaw puzzles include the creative Puzzle & Colour and 4in1 Foam Bath Puzzles, while the Peppa Pig Puzzle & Colour and Bath Puzzles have been refreshed and repackaged. Jumbo has also expanded its offering of wooden puzzles, games, toys and arts and crafts products, with over 100 new products available in the extensive Goula portfolio.

Game on! CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com Character Options is raising the bar with an all new lineup of games launching in autumn. Thrill-seekers will enjoy explosive stacking game Boom Blast Stix. Featuring sensitive, interlocking springs that can go off at any time, the aim of the game is to stack as many of the 40 interlocking pieces as possible before they explode. Nerves will also be pushed to the limits with Five Nights at Freddy’s. Bringing one of the world’s most popular jump-scare mobile games to life, kids and young adults will love playing this game. Slide FX is a new game which tests memory, speed and skill. Inspired by classic games such as Tetris and the Rubik’s Cube, Slide FX is an electronic pattern and colour memorisation game with a unique twist-and-slide feature. Laser X is a new game that will have children and adults alike blasting their opponents with impressive light and sound effect laser-style infrared guns. Unlike other laser games in the market, Laser X guns allow players to shoot their opponent from up to 200 feet away. Sold in packs of two, including two infrared laser blasters and two receiver vests, additional blasters and receiver vests can be added for multiplayer adventure! Challengers can choose red, blue or neutral colours for their vest to signify their team, and the full colour lighting effects help to keep track of shots and hits. Licensed games will also launch with the Piston Cups Race Game, which sees players’ frantically race to the finish with characters from the new Cars 3 film.

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 7

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:11

John Adams.indd 1

03/03/2017 15:32

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Drop the mic! WORLDS APART 0845 602 2119 www.worldsapart.com Following the success of hit toy SelfieMic in 2016, Worlds Apart is diversifying its product range and expanding its promotional toy offering with exciting launches in 2017. The company will be developing its games category with two new games launching in A/W 17. The games, which will be available in the UK from July, made their debut during toy fairs in January and are set to launch worldwide with distribution partners currently being signed. Spin to Sing is the first of the two new games, merging performance and jeopardy for hilarious family fun. Spin to Sing is the talent show game where the best performer wins. Players spin the microphone to select a performer who has to sing to one of the tracks on their phone through the free Spin to Sing game app. Each fellow player scores your performance and at the end of the game, the player with the highest average score winning! Performance jeopardy cards add a hilarious twist to each performance and at the end of each game, the winner is awarded with a Winner’s Journey photo montage of all the best bits from

their performances – just like a real talent show! The second game launch for 2017 will be Woofy Whoops. This hilarious children’s game builds on the popularity of the suspense/roulette genre, but with an added twist of an integrated app that records the laugh out loud moments for everyone to enjoy. Players take turns to spin the dog and whoever Woofy lands on has to pat him according to how many times the app barks. If you’re unlucky enough to have the last pat, Woofy won’t be able to hold in his wee and the player will get sprayed with water. The app then enhances the game-play by recording the moment the player gets sprayed in slow motion, allowing families to watch back, save and share the moment of horror and hilarity. Both games will be backed by heavyweight TV campaigns, along with PR and digital marketing.

All fun and games VIVID IMAGINATIONS 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Gassy the Cow from Vivid Games is a new pre-school game for ages four-plus with an adorable character and hilarious sound effects. Kids walk their welly boots up to Gassy’s bottom and lift up her tail to see if she will moo or if she will poo! Stand in the poo and stick it to the bottom of your welly boots. Look out for Gassy’s wee as this washes it away, but be careful, too much poo and you’re out of the game! Shark Bite tasks players to save their catch using the fishing rod before the shark’s jaws snap! Roll the dice to see how many fish you need to pull from the Shark’s jaws, but watch out for his big leap and snap of his jaws that will make you lose your catch. The player with the most fish at the end of the game wins. SnotCha is the sneeze-spraying action game that really

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 8

sprays water in your face! Players take it in turns to place SnotCha in front of them before pressing down on his snotty nose to see if he needs to sneeze or if he can hold it in for now. When he needs to sneeze, water will spray from his big nostrils directly into your face, complete with gross sneezy and snotty sound effects. All these games from Vivid Games will be TV advertised throughout AW17. Following another excellent year from Drumond Park, new family and kids’ games are on the way for AW17! In Bang On, players bang on to get more time to think of as many answers as they can! The more answers they think of, the more spaces they move in this banging new family game, that will be TV advertised for AW17. Pandemonio is the frantic card-swapping boardtravelling game. Players keep an eye on their cards and play tactically, only swapping those they don’t or won’t need. Reach the top of the board, add a ring to your playing piece and be the first back to the start to win. TV advertised from launch in AW17.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:11

THE

NUMBER 1 UK ADULT PUZZLE BRAND!*

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-80%2 7R\V Q SOD\WKLQJV :$6*,- LQGG Jumbo Ad 1.indd 1

20/02/2017 11:44

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

I Love puzzles GIBSONS

020 8661 8866 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk Gibsons has been producing high quality games for almost a century, and is bringing plenty of innovative new jigsaw puzzles and games to its 2017 collection. The first of which is I Love Autumn, the latest instalment of the best-selling I Love range. First introduced 30 years ago, the I Love range has been a core part of Gibsons’ puzzle offering from the beginning. I Love Autumn is the 14th jigsaw in this series and is bigger and better than ever before. With jigsaw-delivering drones and crazy Halloween antics, the tongue-incheek 1000-piece jigsaw is filled to the brim with chaos and calamity. Another puzzle that has joined the Gibsons range this year is the official VW Campervan jigsaw. Packaged in a mini tin replica of the classic VW van, the 500-piece

puzzle is a montage of quirky campervans that were a common sight in the mid-20th century. Featuring the iconic split screen campervan and a flower power pattern, this montage will have puzzlers dreaming of hot summer days spent caravanning by the coast. Once the puzzle is complete, the sturdy tin is the perfect place to store campervan keys! Mind the Gap is Gibsons brand new TFL licensed card game, which is perfect for entertainment on the move. Packaged in a compact tin, the family card game transports players to the world famous London Underground as they take turns to discard a card that matches the relevant tube line. Each player is dealt eight cards and must match a coloured line from the previous card in order to play. Players must not Bank on their opponents giving them an easy ride – as they aim is to slow rivals down with an Arsenal of special cards that can be Euston other passengers to trip them up. Simple yet engaging, this game is just the ticket for young travellers and old timers alike!

Feeling hip TOMY

01392 281928 www.tomy.com Having celebrated phenomenal sales in 2016, Tomy will continue to drive its children’s games category this year with the addition of five launches to its portfolio. Tomy’s range jumped from eighth to fourth in the children’s Games category during 2015*. Last year the company’s goal was to establish itself as the next big player in games, and the company says it achieved that in both the eyes of the consumer and trade, thanks to its pride in creating quirky games that can be enjoyed by all the family. At the end of 2016 Tomy reported growth of 44 per cent*, driven by continually solid performances of classic games Pop Up Pirate and Screwball Scramble. The successful launch of Greedy Granny also strengthened Tomy’s position in the category. The game was supported with an integrated marketing campaign including events, PR, TV and cinema, and in October Tomy was sold out of the product and couldn’t keep up with the huge demand. Tomy will continue to support its core games and focus on Greedy Granny to ensure a strong second year for the game. Looking ahead to 2017, Tomy will continue to strengthen its position with a number of exciting new releases, including Fizzy Dizzy Hippo, a hilarious game sure to inspire a lot of laughter, which has already won a BTHA Best New Toy Award in the Games category. Also new to the collection is Tickle Me Feet, a pirate themed game where players are truly part of the action, plus there’s fast-paced fun for all the family with Phil the Fridge, and two new Pop Up games from hot licenses Minions and Star Wars. *NPD YTD Dec, 2016

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 9

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:12

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-80%2 7R\V Q SOD\WKLQJV )$/&21 LQGG Jumbo ad 2.indd 1

20/02/2017 11:45

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Games galore CHEATWELL GAMES 02392 524098 www.cheatwell.com This year has been great so far for Cheatwell’s games portfolio with a tranche of new titles to appeal to both the toy and gift markets. High-flying successes at Toy Fair and Spring Fair were the brand new Round Tin Games. The three fun titles are all super simple to learn, open and play, with no complicated rules but plenty to keep brains buzzing. Players try to find missing animals in Silly Safari, learn to talk like a Caveman, or collect sets of cards to Lift Off. Available as solids or a mixed case, the range comes complete with Cheatwell’s very generous margins. For retailers looking for travel games, the Game Pod has landed. Three tried and tested titles in a fantastic storage case allow for easy dealing and cycling of cards, and they’re perfect to pop in a pocket. Cheatwell’s games for gifts line is also very strong this year with two brand new games: What’s in the Box, from renowned designer David Snow, and Quirky, the quiz where players decide the answers. Snow’s What’s in the Box? is beautifully executed, with a solid wooden box to house the games cards. Players simply find an object, place it in the box then invite other players to guess what it is using a limited number of careful questions and guesses. Meanwhile, Quirky invites players to make it up as they go along, but be ready to fight their corner and bluff their way out of it if another player challenges them. Not forgetting Cheatwell’s puzzles, with a brand new range of brain teasers at a fabulous pick up prices, each packed with challenges to train your brain. For fans of traditional dexterity and reasoning puzzles, The Great Zucchini range will delight. Starting with chunky metal puzzles up to elaborate wooden logic problems, the classic retro packaging looks great on the shelf – and even better as it goes through the till!

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Mass a-peel BANANAGRAMS 020 7298 9500 (Winning Moves) www.bananagrams.com The Re-Gifter, The Thief, Switcheroo, Pouch Head - these are just some of the 14 chaos-inducing Party Power tiles in the new Bananagrams Party edition. Each tile gives players the power to unleash a special action on the opponent of their choice. Whether it’s making them play without using their thumbs, or forcing them to do a lap around the table, each action is sure to cause mayhem while players race to use all their letter tiles and complete their own word grids. A sociable spin on the classic anagram game that drives you bananas, Bananagrams Party is available now. Also available is My First Bananagrams! A new title for the younger player, the iconic Bananagrams pouch is now a ripening green and, in response to customer requests, contains colourful lower-case letter tiles. The collection of fun games caters to a wide range of reading abilities, with 10 curriculumbased mini games for early learners, and word game challenges that grow in difficulty as the child’s skill level advances. This culminates in a simplified version of Bananagrams, and introduces children to the classic game. My First Bananagrams uniquely includes new double-tiles with vowel-teams, word families and digraphs, making it the perfect game for children as they learn to read and spell. The original Bananagrams game has sold more than eight million copies in 30-plus countries globally since launching in 2006. The Bananagrams Challenge, a primary school tournament for children in Key Stage 2 is now in its third year in the UK.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:12

Roll the cubes. Make a story.

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Esdvium Games.indd 1

02/03/2017 09:36

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Egg-cellent games GREEN BOARD GAMES

01494 538999 www.greenboardgames.com

Green Board Games has significantly boosted its product range for 2017, with the introduction of wellknown products from Fat Brain and Mindware proving very popular with retailers at recent trade shows. Another two new games that caused a great deal of excitement on GBG’s stands are Froggy and Catch a Roo. Both are fast paced, strategic, memory-based games that are quick, easy and fun to play! New entries into the world of the wonderfully addictive BrainBox include the licenses of Peppa Pig and Marvin’s Magic, while an updated Roald Dahl BrainBox - including The BFG, Matilda and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - will follow later in the year. Other additions to the evergreen BrainBox range are Myths and Monsters and Animal Families. These will be followed by Under the Sea, People at Work and the introduction of Things that Go in the BrainBox Pre-school range, with a phonic-centred, curriculum-aligned update of BrainBox ABC hot on its heels. As of July, GBG will be distributing the renowned range of Gigamic games. These offer something different to their existing ranges, but they all help to improve critical learning skills, which GBG aims to do with every game!

Just like magic! Gone fishing MARVIN’S MAGIC 01582 849000 www.marvinsmagic.com Marvin’s Magic Curiosity Collection is a range of magical mysteries that you’ll want to keep out on the coffee table. They offer unique entertainment that will guarantee to be the talking point at dinner parties. Eccentricks Mystery Box, one of the sets in the range, is a collection of impressive magical curiosities including gambling tricks and stunts. Master entertaining, audience-tested feats of skill to astound family and friends. Another impressive set in the range, Quirkology Mind Games, contains illusions, science stunts and experiments that will seriously bamboozle your brain. The fiendish mind games are enjoyed by Quirkology’s two million YouTube subscribers.

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 11

FIESTA CRAFTS 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk What better way to learn spelling or counting than through an enjoyable goodnatured race? With the Fish N Count and Fish N Spell games, children are encouraged to develop their counting or spelling skills in a race against the other player. The Fish N Count game not only improves counting skills, it improves co-ordination and memory skills. Players use fishing rods with sticky pads to fish ducks out of a pond in a game where they use numbers on the ducks to get to their target number, using addition with yellow ducks and subtraction with green ducks. There’s added danger to make it more exciting – get caught by a crocodile and it’s all the way back to the start!

In the Fish N Spell game, a word is selected from the cards and the players have to fish for the letters as quickly as they can before someone else spells it first! There are 100 word cards in English, French, Spanish and Italian, making it ideal for language learning! These are fun games with educational messages at heart, and are perfect for developing important skills, and the confidence to use those skills.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:13

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Paul Lamond.indd 1

20/02/2017 13:27

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

A game for all occasions ESDEVIUM 01420 593 593 www.esdeviumgames.com Esdevium Games is gearing up for 2017 with its best-ever selection of key family gaming titles. With the Dobble Card Game now an established family favourite among customers and stores alike, Esdevium will be looking to build upon this success with a number of both new and existing titles that are quickly establishing themselves. New for 2017 is the Rory’s Story Cubes range of products from The Creativity Hub. Led by the original game the collection has found popularity across the globe with over seven million games sold worldwide. Esdevium has taken on distribution of the full range of StoryCubes, including the additional 9-cube sets in Actions and Voyages and the licensed range including top properties Doctor Who, Batman, Scooby-Doo, Moomin and Looney Tunes. The range of SKUs shall continue to grow in 2017 with the introduction of a brand new 9-cube base set in the form of Rory’s Story Cubes Fantasia and the addition to the licensed range of Rory’s Story Cubes AdventureTime. Fantasia combines the cubes from Mythic, Medieval and Enchanted MIX sets (three-cube top-up packs) to make up a brand new 9-cube base set. Set to launch at the popular UK Games Expo in June, fans shall be able to get their first taste of Fantasia! Rory’s Story Cubes AdventureTime will allow fans to create their own Finn & Jake inspired stories in the colourful and bonkers world of the cartoon! Appropriately, AdventureTime shall be launched on the Esdevium stand at MCM London Comicon in May! Two other successes for Esdevium from London Toy Fair were Codenames and Cortex Challenge. Codenames was awarded the Spiel des Jahres seal of approval in 2016, the highest accolade in board gaming for its simple yet challenging word association mechanics. Cortex Challenge is a quick fire card game in the mould of Dobble, where players are tasked to use different parts of their brains to solve the various tests including memory, recurrence, problem solving and even tactile cards for players to guess using only their sense of touch! Cortex was received fantastically well by the toy industry in 2016 and Esdevium shall be looking to grow the game’s distribution across 2017.

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Un-brie lievable! GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 www.greatgizmos.co.uk Great Gizmos has added some new boards games and puzzles into its portfolio for 2017. Everyone loves Piggy Pile Up! Be the first player to place your last piggy on the pile without any pieces falling and you will win! The Cheese Stack Game features three fun games and is fun for all the family. Teach the Time Clock Game encourages kids to learn counting, colours, shape recognition and how to tell the time! Meanwhile, Big Fish Little Fish is a fun game where the little fish are hiding under the big fish. Brand new and exciting are 3D puzzles. Puzzlers can piece the jigsaw together and create mesmerising and colourful 3D images that jumps off the jigsaw. The 48-piece puzzle is available in Butterfly, Space and Dinosaur designs. The 100-piece puzzle is available in Butterfly and Sealife styles.

Play time LE TOY VAN 0208 979 2036 www.letoyvan.com Le Toy Van has brand new releases in 2017. New launches in the Petilou range include Petilou Memory Game Animal Pairs, a solid rubberwood memory game. This game encourages social play, developing speech and recognition skills. Petilou Gears & Cogs Busy Bee Learning is another new release. This bright and beautifully illustrated gear set has a bees and flowers theme. The set enables little ones to explore the mechanism of cogs and gears, and supports cognitive development and colour recognition. The Petilou Woodland Tree Puzzle is a woodland-themed tree puzzle featuring six water based, painted pieces with wooden pegs.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:14

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Worlds Apart.indd 1

20/02/2017 11:25

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Piece offering RAVENSBURGER 01869 363800 www.ravensburger.com/uk Ravensburger Children’s Puzzles continues to see growth for its games in the UK market. Children love to integrate their favourite characters into playtime, which is where Ravensburger’s licensed collections really fit the bill. With some of the hottest licensed properties around, children can enjoy recreating scenes in the most creative and mind developing way. Ravensburger’s Games are guaranteed to help families ‘Discover Fun for Everyone’! This year brings an extensive Thomas & Friends collection with 15 puzzles and six games to choose from. The hugely popular PAW Patrol range sees the addition of the new six-piece Cube Puzzle in a handy carry case for those days out from home. During 2017, Ravensburger will welcome 16 exciting new licences to its portfolio including Animal Jam, Disney’s Beauty and

Bull’s eye! DKL MARKETING 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk DKL Marketing distributes the ultra-chic Scratch Europe range, a beautifully packaged brand that produces a fantastic array of games and puzzles from pre-school to four years and up. A best-seller from Scratch Europe is the amazing Magnetic Darts. These reversible hanging darts boards are packaged in unique tubes, designed for ages five years and up, and are great fun for all the family! Not to be missed for retailers from this range is the Magnetic Darts FSDU, which holds both the small and large sized darts-tubes for effective merchandising. Due to the growing success of the line, DKL has added four new designs to the range for 2017. Customers are now also able to buy Magnetic Dart refill packs separately as a pack of six. Not to be missed is the Classic Fishing Game for ages 18 months and up. Kids can catch the colourful fish from the aquarium, which is its beautiful, sturdy box. The one catching the most fish will be the winner! More experienced fishers can add up the numbers on the fish and determine the winner that way.

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 13

the Beast - with products available in time for the film release - as well as Paddington and Rachel Ellen. Later in the year will see puzzles and games from some other big names including: Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Minnie’s Happy Helpers, PJ Masks, Pokémon, Despicable Me 3, Disney’s Elena of Avalor, Disney Tangled the Series, Disney Cars 3 and Power Rangers. As well as the vast licensed collection, Ravensburger also has a range of non-licensed puzzles and games. Featuring themes such as dinosaurs, funny animals and famous locations, they are ideal for older children to ensure they find the jigsaw or game that’s right for them.

Find the fun CARTAMUNDI 01268 511522 www.cartamundi.co.uk Cartamundi’s Fundels range combines entertaining, colourful games and packaging with educational themes like language, conceptual thinking and mathematics. Fundels offers four games across three educational themes, all aligned with the UK national curriculum. Each game has its own colour: the mathematics game is red, while green signals the languages game and the two conceptual thinking games are blue. The flagship premium games add to the fun of the card-playing experience with markers, dice and special wipe-clean cards for writing, all packaged in highly robust cases that are easy to carry and store. There’s a pocket money-priced standard version as well, which offers a take-anywhere, play-anywhere deck of regular flash cards full of exciting spelling, counting and drawing fun.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:14

Winning Moves.indd 1

24/02/2017 15:30

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Minion impossible CLEMENTONI 020 3206 1101 www.clementoni.com Having launched many new licensed and non-licensed puzzles at this year’s London Toy Fair, Clementoni has always been renowned for its innovation in the puzzles market and continues to strengthen it’s 2017 puzzle offering. In its non-licensed portfolio, the eye-catching 3D Virtual Reality puzzle collection received a fantastic response at Toy Fair. Its unique features include panoramic qualities and cover themes of cities, animals, scenery, sightseeing and much more, which can all be enjoyed through the included 3D goggles. This luxury panoramic range will expand with other SKUs throughout 2017. Clementoni also strengthened its licensed puzzle portfolio with many additions. A key hero line expected to be popular is the newly launched children’s animated television programme Shimmer & Shine. The Clementoni product includes interactive giant mat and puzzles with 3D jewels and glitter elements offering retailers and consumers a unique variety. Ahead of the highly-anticipated Despicable Me 3, Clementoni has new adult SKUs including a 1000-piece Impossible Puzzle with all three popular characters and high definition imagery, perfect for testing adults’ intellectual skills.

Feeling flush HASBRO 020 8569 1234 www.hasbro.com

Roll the dice EDUK8 WORLDWIDE www.eduk8worldwide.com 01434 672 336 Eduk8’s new 2 in 1 Jigsaw Game, Ludo, and Snakes and Ladders, have been a big hit. Made from thick, high density foam, these games offer both a jigsaw playmat and, once completed, a fun family game complete with counters and dice. What’s more, such was the popularity of the dice domes last year that were offered as part of the playmat game range, Eduk8 has decided to offer them as single buy items as well. Both large and mini versions are available. The dice are encased in a dome, and when the plunger is pushed they spin and land with a new number face-up. As well as providing an engaging way to build numeracy skills it means no more lost dice!

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Toilet flushing and cake-based mysteries are the name of the game for Hasbro Gaming in 2017, with Toilet Trouble and the new Cluedo Junior game. Filled with suspense and excitement, Toilet Trouble is a new hilarious game for both kids and families. The aim of the game is to flush but be the last player left without getting sprayed. Players take turns spinning the toilet paper roll which will dictate how many times each player must flush the toilet handle. If the player hears the flushing sound but no water is sprayed, they are safe. But watch out for the random spray of water as that player will be eliminated. The unit is easy to set up and put away, and with every flush comes toilet flushing sound effects. With the new Cluedo Junior game, kids can put their detective skills to the test to discover who took the last piece of cake, as well as finding out when they took it and what they drank with it. Players can look under the characters and furniture to find clues and eliminate the choices one by one. The game features the iconic characters Miss Scarlett, Mrs. Peacock, Col. Mustard, Mr. Green, Prof. Plum and Dr. Orchid, a genius biologist with a sweet tooth. Cluedo Junior is part of the Junior Hasbro Gaming range, that also features Monopoly Junior and The Game of Life Junior.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:15

Our contact in UK: Stephen Richardson, SJR Associates Phone number: +44 7850 779 797 E-mail: sales@sjr-associates.co.uk

Trefl.indd 1

22/02/2017 15:17

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Pieces of great! LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819 380 www.learningresources.co.uk Learning is fun with award-winning educational games from Learning Resources. Jolly Roger’s Pirate Pieces brings fractions to life through a voyage for hidden treasure. Players collect treasure pieces to fill all four spaces in their treasure chest. With a fresh approach to representing fractions, spaces are shaped as a gold cup, gem, gold coin, and treasure map. Pieces represent a whole, half, third or quarter, with advanced play options also introducing decimals and percentages. Young Learners embark on a maths adventure with Sum Swamp. Featuring contemporary illustrations and classic gameplay, players complete simple equations to make their way through the swamp and to the finishing line. Look out for special spaces on the board including Evens or Odds, the Crocodile Shortcut and the Endless Loop! The game includes game board, four critter pieces, two number dice and one operation die. Learning Resources’ line of Bingo games are fun for the whole family and reinforce essential Literacy and Maths skills. Sets include Sight Word, Alphabet, Picture Link and Rainbow Fraction Bingo and feature updated packaging, charming illustrations and real-life photography. Suitable for ages four and above, games feature two levels of play to support progression. New content in Sight Word Bingo is fully aligned to phases of the Letters & Sounds phonics programme, helping to reinforce what children have learnt in the classroom. Games include four double-sided bingo cards, 36 game markers, double-sided spinner and activity guide.

Marvel-ous KD UK 01727 827194 www.kdplanet.com/uk Brand new in the KD UK portfolio is a range of 3D Sculpture Puzzles from Spanish games and puzzles supplier Educa-Borras. Discover unique puzzle fun in the third dimension by creating objects in a brand new format. Users can enjoy piecing together this highly detailed 3D puzzle that has been cut into 160 shaped pieces. By simply placing the pieces of card on top of each other over a plastic base, puzzlers can create the complete strong and sturdy structure in spectacular detail without using glue. The licensed range includes four Star Wars titles Darth Vader, Yoda, Stormtrooper and Kylo Ren, as well as Marvel’s Iron Man and Spider-Man, plus Tutankhamun and Venus De Milo. There’s also a brand new Minions item, which is planned to launch in time for the movie release this summer. The puzzle comes with a plastic stand which can be used for display purposes. Suitable for children aged six years plus.

Piece of work HTI 01253 775544 www.htigroup.co.uk HTI’s own in-house Games range provides an extensive selection of traditional board, family and strategy games, from Draughts, Chess, Ludo and Snakes & Ladders to Bingo and Lotto. The Games range also includes playing cards and snap cards, plus compact magnetic compendium travel games that offer four classic board games in one. All the magnetic play accessories can be stored away in the pocket-sized locking cases – ideal for gameplay on the move! Robust, quality designs and colourful, eye-catching artwork ensure maximum onshelf visibility and customer appeal. HTI’s own Wood Works range of traditionally crafted, premiumquality wooden toy lines includes puzzles for children of ages 18 months up. The Wood Works pre-school offering comprises colourful

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 15

chunky shape sorters, a learning clock, alphabet and number puzzles, dominoes, an abacus, chalk board and jumbo floor puzzle. Assorted peg puzzles provide little ones with hours of shape sorting fun with pegs that are perfect for little fingers. All Wood Works pre-school puzzles have been designed to help develop recognition of numbers, letters, shapes and colours as well as enhance hand-eye coordination, cognitive abilities and stimulate visual development. All supplied in fully branded display CDUs, the Wood Works range provides fantastic margins to retail partners as well as great value for money for the consumer.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:16

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Page 55.indd 1

03/03/2017 15:22

FEATURE

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Party time! ORCHARD TOYS 01953 859525 www.orchardtoys.com Orchard Toys has redesigned its popular Party, Party, Party game to broaden its appeal. The game, now aimed at a slightly younger age range of four to eight, features fun 3D rucksacks instead of handbags and a new dynamic game board. The redesigned game now also includes updated characters and party items, giving Party, Party, Party a fresh look and more universal appeal. Alongside the new illustrations, the game now features fun 3D rucksacks for children to collect their items in as they make their way around the board.

U-no the score MATTEL 01628 500000 www.mattel.com Mattel continues to provide entertainment for the whole family in 2017 with an expanding portfolio of games, from staple favourites to exciting new licenses and launches. Bringing something new to the card game sector UNO Emoji will join the UNO range early this year, adding a fun new dynamic to classic play. Featuring cards with Emoji faces and symbols, players must imitate those Emoji expressions and hold them or pick up more cards. The UNO range continues the excitement with the relaunch of the family favourite UNO Extreme, plus the continuation of the classic product range, which includes the classic game Get Wild 4 UNO. Scrabble remains a popular choice as number two in the total Family Games sub category (NPD, Family Games, Jan 17), offering fun mind and educational challenges. A strong range for the full year includes Scrabble Original, Scrabble Junior, and Scrabble Deluxe, with exciting new innovation joining the range later this year. Making game play magical this year is the special edition Harry Potter Scrabble. Scrabble celebrates the unique vocabulary from the world of Harry Potter with a special glossary of wizarding words plus additional magical cards for scoring more points!

Feature Games & Puzzles.indd 16

New games THAMES & KOSMOS 01580 212 000 www.thamesandkosmos.com With the increasing popularity of Exit/Escape gaming in the UK, Thames & Kosmos UK is launching three new titles for 2017. Thames & Kosmos UK will launch a total of 12 new board games this year - significantly more games in the first half of 2017 than in any previous year. As with all games in the Thames & Kosmos portfolio, the new Exit Games range expand play boundaries by offering unique, innovative and often surprising play experiences. Designed for up to six players and with each game lasting between 45 and 90 minutes, players 12-plus can bring the real-life exit room experience trend to the tabletop. There are three different titles in the Exit Games collection: The Pharoahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tomb, The Secret Lab and The Abandoned Cabin.

Name it! TRENDS UK 01295 768078 01353 724140 (independents) www.trendsuk.co.uk New from Megableu for 2017, players can find the perfect balance with Tumball. Players observe the cluster of balls, suspended by nothing but thread, and see how many balls they can balance on them before the cluster separates. Name That is the frantic word game where players must think fast to win. Person? Place? Food? The answer to the category shown on each card lies in the letter shown on the next card. Blast Box from Zing Toys is a suspense filled action game with an explosive outcome that will make players jump out of their seats! Inflate one balloon per player and place them inside the Blast Box.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:16

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If you want to reach 5,125* total average net circulation, then call Ryan Horwood on 01442 289945 or email ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk *. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 2015 to 30th June 2016

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Toys house advert.indd 1

03/03/2017 17:14

COLUMN

20.20

Capture the imagination Encouraging children to have fun and be creative remain the key drivers when it comes to buying toys. So retailers should look for new ways to spark the imagination, argues Mariann Wenckheim, Director at Strategic Design Consultancy 20.20

“

Bricks and mortar stores that continue to compete on convenience against online toy retailers face a much harder battle

”

ccording to research by Mintel, more than threequarters of people choose toys that will allow their children to have fun, and over half say they buy ones that promote creativity. Lower down the list are more serious motivations such as improving cognitive and motor skills. Given this, would it not make sense for toy stores to reevaluate their proposition with a renewed focus on fun and creativity? This focus would give customers clear reasons to visit, and stores are best placed for enabling parents to understand experience — live — how they can capture the imagination. Bricks and mortar stores that continue to compete on convenience against online toy retailers face a much harder battle. Customers, of course, value that goods bought from a website arrive at their home or office at an increasingly precise time. Playing the convenience card on the high street means redefining this offering. Purchasing toys online makes sense when customers know what they want. However, when they don’t, a conversation with a knowledgeable and trustworthy toy expert could be the most convenient experience. This might, of course, take place via a chat with an online retailer — but more often than not, a customer’s lack of knowledge or inspiration are reasons why they might walk into a trusted store. In other words, convenience on the high street could be redefined as a meaningful dialogue with instant product availability. During busy periods, there will be times when your store team — who are your brand ambassadors — will be busy serving customers, while others are left to shop on their own. This is the stress test of your proposition, with a focus on convenience likely to fail on a busy Saturday. When the

customer feels let down and the expectation your brand has set is not met — the customer looses trust. We need to ask ourselves how to create an experience that is consistent, empowers and excites the customer — even at peak times — and therefore goes beyond the ideal conversation with the store team. This leads us to the conclusion that toy stores should focus their proposition on combining the highest level of service with customer engagement. Parents are more likely to trust a brand when they see their children having fun and being creative while playing. There is nothing more inspiring than a destination that allows adults and children to connect with each other and feel at home. Let them experience what having fun and being creative feels like in real life. Those concerned about the cost of making drastic changes will be delighted to hear that the simplest ideas are often the most effective. For example, while observing young fans and interviewing the store team in the LEGO store, we noticed that the mini figures pods — to create their own figures — proved to be extremely popular. Further to this, when 20.20 designed the new Mothercare experience, we found that the most popular ‘hangout’ in store was the tiny teahouse, which provides a space for children to create their own stories with others. Winning high street propositions focused around convenience will need to be built around human contact. And ultimately I believe in human connections, which are more memorable and long-lasting. That said, your proposition needs to go beyond that in order to fully support your team. So when you rethink your customer journey and your offering, delight your customers with ways of exploring how to inspire fun and creativity in their children. Ignite their imagination — toy retailers of all people know exactly how to do that!

Contact 20.20 by visiting www.20.20.co.uk

20.20.indd 1

21 toysnplaythings.co.uk

03/03/2017 16:20

Spotlight on CHELFORD If you are after plush with a difference, Chelford’s iPlush is just the thing for you. Inflatable, easy to store away, portable, hypoallergenic and washable, the iPlush is a must-have for your shelves machine s i h s The iPlu ble and it’s washa o you can , s portable anywhere take it

The iPlush INFLATES and DEFLATES making Inﬂ atable plush comes it the ideal companion! wit h a carry case and pump

Contact Chelford

When it’s time to store away, simply deﬂate and fold it up

Tel: 0161 7371881 Web: www.iplushtoy.co.uk

Spotlight Chelford.indd 1

Cuddly, soft and hypoallergenic — it’s perfect for sensitiv e little noses

03/03/2017 16:20

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS Plum Products

The great escape B

y their very nature, toys that fall into the outdoor category tend to inspire a sense of adventure. They conjure up images of escapism, freedom, and best of all, you get to breathe some fresh air. Gone are the days when outdoor toys meant a clapped out bike from the tip which was rescued by your granddad. Oh no, these days outdoor toys are everything from the shiniest licensed scooters to the most futuristic of hoverboards. In short, the outdoor toys of 2017 are turning the category on its head. Bubbles, trampolines, garden games, and drones, they all fall under the remit and they are all gold for kids. When it comes to what makes the category tick, there is a lot happening. “There is a trend of the consumer moving towards great quality products rather than being price driven, whether that be a trampoline or wooden play centre,” says Bradley Wild, Head of UK Sales, Plum. “People are looking for good pricing and choice, but are also considering brands, features and quality — products that will last are at

the forefront of their purchasing decision. Customisation is also a trend we are seeing more and more in all product industries. The consumer wants to be a part of the design process and buy into a product that is personalised for them.” MV Sports Sales & Marketing Director Phil Ratcliffe says from its perspective the company is seeing a trend towards “battery powered vehicles across the board, from kids’ cars to hoverboards”. Another company that highlights the more futuristic end of the market is Hy-Pro with Product Manager Susannah Mytton telling us: “The £100-plus product price region seems to be growing the most rapidly. Electric scooters and hoverboards are the focus with massive investment in lithium battery technology seen across the board. On the other hand, low cost lines are still vital to retailers with the focus on value for money while 2in1 and multiuse products are reigning in younger categories.” And while all that is true, this dynamic category is traditional at heart too. “It’s a fairly traditional sector to

“

There is a trend of the consumer moving towards great quality products rather than being price driven

“

The outdoors never gets old, and with more and more toys seeking to join the category, this sector is as exciting as ever. TnP takes a closer look at the sector…

Bradley Wild, Plum

DID YOU KNOW… MV Sports is seeing a trend towards "battery powered vehicles", says Sales & Marketing Director Phil Ratcliffe

Feature Outdoor.indd 1

toysnplaythings.co.uk

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:33

We asked… Can you recall your own favourite outdoor toy when you were a nipper?

Hy-Pro

“I would have to say my Chopper bike – I’m showing my age now!” Bradley Wild, Plum

be honest,” agrees Funrise’s UK Head of Sales, David Martin. “You have wheeled toys, sand and water play and of course, bubbles. Drones and RC flying toys have entered the arena, but for younger kids it’s about having fun and that often comes with getting wet, or whizzing around on two wheels.”

Something for everyone

“

Electric scooters and hoverboards are the focus with massive investment in lithium battery technology seen across the board

As the category has grown and expanded beyond just sand and water play, so too Susannah has retailers’ scope for selling Mytton, Hy-Pro — not just in the summer months and Christmas — but all year round. So other than December, when do the suppliers we spoke with find sales peak? “After Christmas, sales start to build at Easter with continual growth throughout spring, peaking in the summer months,” says Hy-Pro’s MV Sports Susannah. “Electric scooters and wheeled toys are definitely the most fun at this time of year, when you can actually get outside!” For MV Sports, peak sales depends on the product, says Phil. “Our Hedstrom range of swings, slides and trampolines peaks in the summer months; as does Kickmaster football. However bikes, battery operated vehicles and hoverboards are most certainly main Christmas presents.” For Funrise, Dave says that from February half term through to the end of the summer holidays is key for the Gazillion Bubbles brand, although sales do continue year round. And for Plum, Bradley points out that the outdoor peak season runs from Easter through the summer, however, he adds the caveat “weather always affects buying behaviour”.

”

“Yes! I had a beautiful rainbow coloured scooter with chunky air blown tyres that I had coveted for months in the toy shop’s window and was finally given it for Christmas from my parents. I rode it everywhere for years!” Susannah Mytton, Hy-Pro “I used to love my red scooter. I was heartbroken when a lorry reversed over it in a back street behind my friend’s dad’s chippy.” Phil Ratcliffe, MV Sports “Anyone who knows me will know my outdoor toy of choice is a set of golf clubs!” David Martin, Funrise comes down to it, quick set up, easy use and low maintenance marks out the winners in my opinion.” For Funrise, it is about interaction and quality. “The toy is best if it is something that can come out of the cupboard as soon as a good day comes around,” says Dave. “Outdoor is also a cooperative play-zone so something that can be enjoyed with friends is also a key to success.” MV Sports’ Phil points out that a license can also work wonders for an outdoor toy, and when teamed with affordability, innovation and extended play value, you’re onto a winner. Plum’s Bradley Wild tells us interactive play is what really helps make a product sing. “An outdoor toy should incorporate fun features allowing children to slide, climb, swing and use their imagination. The best outdoor toys incorporate physical active play and encourage creativity.” With all of these incredibly exciting outdoor play options to hand, it is no wonder the category continues to be a firm favourite.

What makes a good toy? Given that there are so many different types of products within the outdoor category, we asked our suppliers what sums up a really good outdoor toy, in their opinion. “Initially it’s the shape and design of a product that really grabs the eye,” says Susannah. “But when it

MARCH 2017 Feature Outdoor.indd 2

03/03/2017 16:33

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Smart choice HY-PRO

01582 670 100 www.hy-pro.co.uk Hy-Pro has a busy 2017 ahead with the launch of multiple new products. This S/S will finally see the launch of the Flyte Maxi model, the final addition to the Flyte case scooter range. This new model builds on the successful Flyte formula, but instead of a hard cabin case the Maxi converts into a stylish backpack – perfect for tweens and teens. The Maxi has real scooter credentials with a high quality specification, making it ideal for commuting to school, long trips and holidays. To further expand the brand, Flyte has also launched a series of accessories including plush toys with blankets and backpacks and Flyte character-inspired luggage tags. Zinc is also introducing multiple new products including the stylish, lithium powered Smart range and a series of brand new Volt electric scooters. The Smart range features sleek, lightweight designs across five new lithium-powered e-scooters. The lithium batteries allow for more efficient power, longer battery life and faster recharge times. The Smart Quantum commuter scooter is a foldable,

lightweight model with an aircraft grade aluminium frame and reaches speeds of up to 15mph. As part of the Smart range, Zinc is also putting its wheeled knowledge into power boards. The Smart range debuts Zinc’s first three power boards: Smart First, Smart A and Smart X. The Smart First is the ideal ride for first time balancers, hitting speeds of 5mph with a front LED light. The Smart A power board reaches speeds of 6.5mph and can travel up to 20km in one go. The Smart X offers a refreshed and unique design aspect to the power board, while reaching speeds of 7.5mph. All three are fully UL certified offering peace of mind to retailers. The Volt XT range continues the electric scooter expansion with another five new models, all of which take advantage of developed lead acid battery technology. This allows for new reliable, slimline and lightweight electric scooters. These five new models reach varying speeds, starting at 6mph for the younger Volt XT model, whilst the Volt XT3 and Volt 200 both reach an impressive 15mph.

Pitch perfect GP FLAIR

0208 643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk Football stars don’t get much bigger than Lionel Messi, and now with GP Flair’s new Messi Training System range, kids everywhere can emulate one of the world’s favourite footie heroes. From July, the Messi Training System range will become the ultimate fun skills range for budding footballers. Heading up the range is the 4-in-1 Training Station, a multi-feature goal that has four modes of play for young footballers to practice. Kids can aim and shoot at the targets to hone their goal scoring skills, use the curved surface to train ball control and touch, use the net to learn how to pass, and then use the large target and net to show off what they’ve mastered! In addition to the full Training Station, aspiring footballers can work their way through the range to practice specific Messi talents. The Auto Trainer lets children perfect ball control and touch skills by placing the ball on the scoop then pushing down on the paddle to launch the ball.

Feature Outdoor.indd 3

Ready, steady, go-cart! ASOBI 01628 200077 www.asobi.co.uk Asobi offers a number of exciting outdoor toys for 2017. For lovers of traditional outdoor toys, Skipper has been producing beautiful handmade wooden sailing boats for over 20 years. Available in four sizes, all yachts have genuine sail cloth, adjustable rigging, solid wood hull and a steel keel and are handmade using natural materials. Handlebar Heroes is the perfect way for any child to jazz up their ride – a fun accessory to dress up their bike or scooter with a range of amazing animal head masks. Inspired by the international success of the Red Bull Soapbox Race, BoxKart is a build your own wooden racer in kit form. It features heavyduty pneumatic tyres.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:34

COOL PRINTED GRIPTAPE & DECK

MINI SKATEBOARD M

“LIGHTYEAR” PRINTED WHEELS

FOLDS FOR EASY STORAGE

FULLY ENCLOSED PRINTED CHAINGUARD

FOLDING IN-LINE SCOOTER

PRINTED CRASH PAD & WHEEL DISCS

14” BIKE

Revving up your sales! MV.indd 1

21/02/2017 12:54

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Your carriage awaits LITTLE TIKES 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk Little Tikes is adding to its active outdoor play portfolio in spring 2017. The new Fountain Factory Water Table, with interchangeable pipes and fittings makes learning fun and hands-on. Water can be channelled through these pipes and in to three water fountains. It really is a great way for STEM learning while having endless amounts of fun. In the trikes category,the upcoming Fit ‘N Fold Trike is designed to provide maximum portability and compact fold. With a fully adjustable sun shade and reclining seat, the Fit ‘N Fold Trike will be a most unique trike in the market. The 5-in-1 Deluxe Ride and Relax Trike has all the fantastic features of the 4-in-1 trike with innovative extras including a three-position reclining seat back, height adjustable canopy and ‘perfect fit technology’, meaning the soft and stylish seat moves with the flip of a switch. Not forgetting the hero Cozy Coupe range, with over 10 variations to choose from. Spring 2017 sees an addition to the ride-on range with the Little Tikes Princess Horse & Carriage – the ultimate princess fantasy comes to life. With a beautiful white horse at the front for imaginative play, this carriage also comes with a foldable handle which can be rotated for use by

parent or child and also makes a life like clip-clop sound when on the move. Playhouses remain a core area for Little Tikes, which this year continues to drive the category forward with the unique Go Green Play House. This modern playhouse is filled with earthfriendly features and activities for children from two years plus. Designed for the ultimate in eco-fun, it aims to teach children about the environment and the importance of thinking green for the future.

Digging it! GOLDEN BEAR 01952 608308 www.goldenbeartoys.com A top 15 licensed pre-school vehicle brand (NPD FY Dec 16), Golden Bear’s My First JCB range is a colourful, kid-tough preschool construction vehicle collection based on real life JCB vehicles. Joining the My First JCB line for AW17 will be the new My First JCB Rolling Diggers. Tough and durable, these mini diggers are designed to fit perfectly into little hands and feature a simple push-along mechanism, so kids can just push and play. Also joining the line-up are the Muddy Diggers Water Squirters, which feature mud splats that magically vanish in warm water – perfect for use in the bath or in the paddling pool in the summer. Both new items will be available in July and sit alongside the Big Wheelers range led by the award-winning Stacking Stanley Mega Truck. All items in the range reflect the overarching brand ethos of encouraging kids to get ready for an indoor or outdoor adventure in 2017!

Feature Outdoor.indd 4

Camp out MYWEETEEPEE 01963 548140 www.myweeteepee.co.uk Myweetepee debuted the new Scandinavian inspired Chevron teepees at London Toy Fair and received an extremely positive response. In a simple two-colour design, the Chevron designs offer a great piece of décor to nurseries and include the key Myweeteepee features of a play house window and functional blind for imaginative play. Available in Black, Grey and Lemon, the Chevron design is completely on trend for 2017 living. The Chevron designs are a perfect complement to the multi award winning traditional Myweeteepee bundles and the mini sized Tweeteepeee – little teepees created especially for toys and dolls.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:29

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20/02/2017 10:47

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Retro racing GREAT GIZMOS 01293 543221 ww.ggtrade.co.uk Great Gizmos offers a fantastic range of outdoor toys, including sky high rockets, pedal cars, ride-ons for little ones and more! Check out the Pedal Cars from Great Gizmos. For the girls is the Classic Pedal Car in powder pink. The range also features the car in red, green and yellow, plus a traditional Fire Engine Pedal Car complete with a ladder, hose and bell. The popular Ride Ons collection has been expanded further with the addition of the Ride On Aeroplane, Ride On Rocket and Ride On Retro Racers in green and red. Blasting onto the scene is Geospace, a sky high collection of jump rockets that lets kids have fun indoors and out. The exciting rocket Bungee Blast is the lastest addition to the range. They’re available in Original, flying up to 150 feet and Mini, launching up to 75 feet. The Geospace Air Thruster is an aerodynamic plane that will fly 50ft into the rocket sky and will really amaze kids. For fast paced action on the go, the Pump Rocket Micro Wrist Shotz attaches to children’s wrists and fires three mini rockets using a hand pump!

Inflatable fun TRENDS UK

01295 768078 01353 724140 (independents) www.trendsuk.co.uk The new inflatable Pops Up City play-scapes create an instant fantasy world for kids, offering lots of soft, safe, imaginative roleplay. Suitable for indoor and outdoor play, they come in a small storage box and inflate to a kid-sized play area. In this patented system, each set is made of separate, easy to inflate parts that attach together with Velcro, so no assembly is required and they stand up ready for play. Themes include: Princess Castle, Emergency Rescue Centre, Construction Site and Knights’ Castle.

Pool party! SPIN MASTER 01628 535000 www.spinmaster.com Decked out with a fierce design, the Air Hogs E-Charger is ready for action. Made for the outdoors, this plane has durable materials to withstand the toughest crash landings and an aerodynamic construction. The E-Charger flies up to 100 yards - simply plug in the E-Charger for 30 seconds and you’re ready to fly. Spin Master recently acquired SwimWays, a diverse portfolio of toys, games and sporting goods for the pool, beach and garden. The company’s top selling brands and products are being sold in the UK this spring and include the popular, patented Spring Float line of products, Baby Spring Float, COOP, swim gear and water toys.

Full flight REVELL

0845 459 0747 www.revell.de/en Say hello to the ultimate selfie stick, as Revell Control introduces C-me, the go anywhere social media flying camera. Available in four vibrant colours and exciting shelf and peg retail packaging, C-me is small, portable and easy to fly, letting users instantly share full HD images and videos on their social sharing channels at the touch of a button. Designed with everyone, everyday, everywhere in mind, C-me is the smallest micro folding flying camera that features virtually all the functionality of a commercial-grade camera drone but at a price that appeals to the casual user. Virtual reality is the new buzzword in RC technology. The VRQuadcopter VR Shot brings virtual reality flight through your smartphone, and the Quadcopter Spot VR features virtual reality flight and a full HD Camera. Revell’s Race Drone makes VR racing a reality, and on the ground, the X-treme VR Racer has won a prestigious Nuremberg Toy Fair award in the Teenager and Adults category for bringing VR to the model car racing scene. Some innovative camera quads from Revell include the GPS

Quadcopter Pulse FPV, which enables you to hold your position and return to home through GPS, plus automatic landing function. The Cam-Copter Demon features a 20-minute flight time, and the highend Navigator GPS Quadcopter FPV features return to home and follow me function. Other quirky new quads include the colourful Quadcopter Froxxic with protective guards, and users can learn to fly with the extremely well-protected Quadcopter Mini Cager. In addition to Revell Control X-treme, with top speeds of up to 25 km/h and dust and splash-proof electronics, other new RC cars include an attractive range of Mini RC Cars for ages three-plus. For off-road racing fun there’s the 4WD RC Cars, Crawlers and Trucks. Finally the pre-school brand Revell Control Junior is extended with some fun new RC models including a Dump Truck, Concrete Mixer, Towing Service, Police Car and the cute Croc and Pony! Few parts, easy assembly, sturdy construction and lots of fun make them the perfect introduction to the world of RC for children ages two and over.

Feature Outdoor.indd 5

03/03/2017 16:29

Put a spring in your sales. Order our outdoor games today!

01603 397105 sales@tobar.co.uk www.tobar.co.uk

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03/03/2017 15:25

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

On a roll MV SPORTS

0121 748 8000 www.mvsports.co.uk MV Sports is on a roll for 2017 with great new innovative and stylish designs, combining both evergreen and hot new licences. With the highly anticipated release of the Cars 3 movie in 2017, MV Sports has some incredible models to support the brand including a range of scooters with authentic Lightyear printed wheels. 10”,12” and 14” bikes featuring cool graphics from the upcoming movie enhance the core range with a selection of accessories such as helmets and safety pads. The range also includes a host of ride-ons with striking Lightning McQueen features,

most notably the award-winning Lightning McQueen 6v battery operated car, which features forward and reverse gears and lights and sounds. With authentic McQueen features, any little Cars fan will feel like they are Lightning McQueen! MV’s new line-up of authentic battery operated vehicles includes the giant 12v Thomas the Tank Engine with realistic moulded features and light and sounds. Plus there’s the PAW Patrol 6V models based on vehicles from the show, Chase’s Cruiser and Ryders ATV - all sure to bring sales rolling in! The iconic 6V Batmobile has been upgraded for 2017 with a more contemporary look. Budding superheroes will feel right at home riding in this mean machine! With several blockbuster movie releases for 2017, MV’s Star Wars, Power Rangers, Transformers 5, Guardians of the Galaxy and My Little Pony licensed ranges are set to complement classic evergreen performers such as Thomas, Peppa Pig and Disney Princess.

Away with the fairies

Trucking forward

INTERPLAY UK

BRUDER

01628 488944 www.interplayuk.com

01491 412415 (The Sales Partnership) www.bruder.de

Interplay’s My Fairy Garden - Fairy Watering Can is a beautifully detailed playset to provide children with the tools to look after their gardens and flower pots, while offering great play value with a fairy figurine, her swing, gardening tools and a fairy house. Fenn the fairy loves to water plants whilst playing on her swing. She also has tools to help tend the garden and after a hard day’s work she can sit on the bench in her home and watch the flowers grow. This kit is a lovely and imaginative stand-alone toy or a perfect companion for other My Fairy Garden grow and play sets.

Feature Outdoor.indd 6

Thanks to its durability and off-road capability, the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon forms the ideal basis for fire service deployments. Just like the original, the Bruder model features off-road axle suspension. The Ackermann steering geometry, including a drag link extension through the vehicle’s roof, enable imitations of incident scenarios.

Engineered for fun HAUCK 07770 608858 www.hauck-toys.com German design and meticulous development means that every Hauck rideon is engineered to ensure maximum fun, reliability and value. Hauck’s range of exciting and innovative ride-ons offers something for all ages from baby to adult. The range features both strong evergreen licenses and exclusive nonlicensed designs too.

toysnplaythings.co.uk toysnplaythings co uk 03/03/2017 16:29

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Introducing the latest innovation from Zinc, our Smart Range. Powered by lithium technology with sleek, clean aesthetics it epitomises a new generation of Zinc products and Zinc customer. Please contact info@hy-pro.co.uk or call 01582 670 100 for further information on the range. Hypro.indd 1

10/02/2017 10:46

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Rïpp-roaring fun! HTI

01253 775544 www.htigroup.co.uk HTI’s wheeled toys offering with Blaze and the Monster Machines includes a 3 Wheel Scooter and In-line Scooter, a Balance Bike, 10” and 12” bikes as well as helmet and protection gear. There’s even a Battery Operated Quad Bike. HTI brings outdoor construction themed play to life with a range of JCB free-wheeling sand play construction vehicles. HTI’s wheeled offering also includes the new Spider-Man Homecoming movie, Despicable Me, Num Noms, Shimmer & Shine and Bing as well as Disney favourites Frozen, Descendants, Toy Story, Tsum Tsum, Disney Fairies, Mickey and Minnie Mouse. When it comes to scooters, HTI let Rïpp with its inhouse range of high spec, high detail scooters and accessories. The Rïpp R500 and Dirt Rider scooters offer solutions for both track riders and all-terrain. Offering a quality range of bubble solution and bubble toys across all value price points, HTI’s licensed and own brand portfolio includes assorted solution bottles, wands, swords, guns and play sets.

Scooting ahead H. GROSSMAN 0141 613 2525 www.ozbozz.co.uk H. Grossman is introducing a revamped scooter offering for 2017 with over fifty per cent of the range updated with new themes and new packaging. This year sees a whole selection of new lines including the brand new Twist and Fold Scooter. The stylish scooter is available in three colourways, with four wheels and height adjuster which folds away. Two brand new electric scooters are also available with a smaller and larger version. Emojis are massive worldwide and Grossman is introducing a wide range of outdoor products for 2017 including scooters, pogo sticks, skateboards and spiral ball.

Dig the outdoors KIDS@PLAY 01291 429 007 kids-at-play.com JCB is no stranger to the great outdoors, and when it comes to toys, the focus is very much on offering a great play experience both indoors and out. Kids@Play continues the JCB Excavator for 2017 following a successful launch in Q4 last year. Complete with multipositional excavator arm, bucket scoop, detachable trailer, rake shovel and hard hat, the Excavator has a 360 degrees turning unit and easy movement with foot to floor power.

Jump for joy PLUM

01522 7737136 www.plumplay.co.uk Plum is an innovator when it comes to trampoline design and outdoor adventures. Leading the way in safety, style and active play, Plum has exciting new outdoor rages for 2017. It’s all about colour and play features this spring/ summer. Adding a twist to outdoor fun, Plum introduces its Premium Metal Mist range. The metal set includes a unique water feature that hooks up to a hose pipe and sprays a fine water shower. The swing sets have a larger 2.2 metre height frame, enhancing performance for a bigger swing. With powder coated steel, galvanised inside and out for added durability, Plum offers an extended two year warranty on this premium range. A Nest Swing big enough for two and a Mist See Saw, bring the fun factor to the back garden. Inspiring fun outdoor play continues with Colours by Plum Trampolines. Supplied with a reversible pad and two foam sets, styles can easily be switched between the two colour options or mixed and matched. No tools are required! The enclosure design simplifies assembly and adds durability while Plum Springsafe technology and features separate the jumper from the springs and frame. Plum springs give an even and controlled bounce that is kind on joints.

toysnplaythings.co.uk Feature Outdoor.indd 7

03/03/2017 16:30

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Little Tikes.indd 1

01/03/2017 09:29

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Garden games TOBAR 01603 397 105 www.tobar.co.uk

Moving on up SIMBA SMOBY

01274 765030 www.simba-dickie.com When it comes to outdoor fun, Simba Smoby has the perfect collection for tots on the move! The Be Move licensed trike collection launched last month offering parents and their little ones an outdoor ride with their favourite characters. Masha and the Bear, Disney Cars, Frozen, Lion Guard and Disney Princess make up the collection, making this a catch-all range for the most popular pre-school properties. At a reasonable price point, the Be Move trikes are sturdy and durable with an incorporated storage facility for added value.

A leading wholesale supplier of toys, games, gifts and gadgets, Tobar has an exciting range of outdoor toys for 2017. Fun family hits such as the Lawn Darts, Mini Wooden Golf Set and Wooden Rounders Set are expected to be big hitters this year. Lawn Darts is an exciting outdoor game. It comes with four large, weighted, soft-tipped darts and two rings, making it easy and safe for children to play with. The aim of the game is to land the dart as close as possible to the bullseye. Kids can test their best throwing arm and accuracy skills to hit the target. A perfect lighthearted game to play out in the garden among friends and family - and no batteries needed! The Mini Wooden Golf Set traditional garden game comes complete with two wooden golf clubs and a variety of wooden obstacles. The set is par-fect for little ones, but make sure they don’t miss tee time with all the fun they’ll be having. The whole family will be mastering their swing in no time. The Wooden Rounders Set is a traditional bat-and-ball game set that can easily be played in a garden or taken away on days out. Hit the ball and race around the base pegs to complete a rounder and see who will be crowned champion. This classic game is ideal for casual play or full blown tournaments.

Get active VIVID IMAGINATIONS 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Phlat Ball had another record-breaking year in 2016. The must-have unique toy transforms from a 9-inch disc to a 6-inch diameter ball when thrown, perfect for outdoor active play. A new addition to the range for spring is Phlat Ball Flash, which lights up for lots of flashing Phlat Ball fun, along with the original V3 Fusion and Neon Jnr options, which see vibrant new colour refreshes later in the summer. Super Wubble is squishy, squashy, super soft and lightweight and can be inflated to up to 80cm for lots of outdoor fun! Super Wubble is available with a pump or without pump and comes in assortments of pink and blue. Also new to the Super Wubble range for SS17 is Water Wubble, the amazing refillable water balloons. Super Wubble & Water Wubble will be TV advertised throughout the summer season. Kite flying is a breeze with the all new Kite-a-Pult. Featuring a unique and innovative launcher, children can now launch and fly a kite on their own. Kite-a-Pult will be TV advertised from Easter. Also new to Vivid’s outdoor range for SS17 are Sky Flyers. Interconnecting launchers allow kids to launch up to four planes at the same time or in a sequence. Sky Flyers come in a Twin Pack or Bumper Pack and will be TV advertised from Easter. Smackerz is the smack-tastic new craze. This addictive new toy is being TV advertised now.

Feature Outdoor.indd 8

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:30

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Golden Bear.indd 1

10/02/2017 12:04

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Forever blowing bubbles... FUNRISE 01908 555640 www.funrise.com

Pump up the fun JOHN ADAMS 01480 414361 www.johnadams.co.uk John Adams Leisure continues to expand its range of Intex outdoor toys in 2017, which will sit alongside Intex’s existing portfolio of above ground pools and inflatables. The Mushroom Baby Pool is the latest addition to the Intex Baby Pools collection designed for young children aged between one and three years old. Featuring a fun red and white mushroom canopy to shade baby from the sun, this starter pool also features a soft inflatable floor for extra comfort. Measuring 102 x 88cm when fully inflated, the pool holds a water capacity of 45 litres and sits alongside the popular Lazy Fish Shade Baby Pool in the range. The Intex Spray Pool offering is also expanding with the launch of the Friendly Caterpillar Sprayer and the Gator Spray Pool. In a bright green caterpillar design, the Friendly Caterpillar Sprayer simply attaches to a garden hose and sprays water continually for lots of water play. The sprayer includes a fast spin for extra fun and is suitable for children aged three plus. The Gator Spray Pool features a gator mouth water sprayer which simply attaches to a garden hose, and also comes complete with a baby duck inflatable toy for added play value. Suitable for outdoor or indoor play, the cool Ka-Pow Bumpers include two individual Ka-Pow tubes in bright and colourful designs. Complete with heavy duty handles, the Ka-Pow Bumpers are great fun for kids aged fourplus and include one air chamber for easy inflation. Similar to a rubber ring, children hold the Ka-Pow tubes around them enabling them to bump into each other for hours of active play.

Following a bumper year for bubbles in 2016, Funrise is set to create a bigger bubble bonanza with a new Giant Gazillion collection that’s perfect for outdoor play as the milder months approach. Gazillion Bubbles give kids the ultimate bubble experience, with its specially created formula that has been shown to create bigger, more plentiful bubbles. Still at affordable price points the new lines include a Giant Bubble Mill, the ultimate large machine that blows giant bubbles. Coming complete with an 8oz bottle of Giant Bubble Solution, key features include a rotating wheel that blows giant bubbles continuously with no pump and no waiting! Alternatively look out for the Giant Bubble Power Wand, a Toy Fair 2017 Best New Toys winner. For those that still enjoy creating a Gazillion smaller bubbles, the new Double Bubble Barrel Blaster is an innovative hand-held bubble shooter featuring dual barrels for double the bubble blasting fun! Gazillion Bubbles will be receiving heavy weight marketing support thought the spring and summer seasons including Kids press, Digital campaigns and a substantial TV advertising schedule. Continuing with the outdoor adventure fun is Funrise’s Tonka range, featuring the perfect assortment of Tonka tough vehicles for kids to choose from. The Tonka Steel collection is the ideal way for kids to enter a whole world of sandpit play. These rough and tough vehicles are made from real steel and include a variety of cranes and trucks to choose from. The Tonka Steel Dump Truck features a vibrant yellow dump bed for holding mud, rubble or other toys plus over-sized tires, so going off road won’t be a problem!

Ride in style KIDDIMOTO 01749 871175 www.kiddimoto.co.uk Kiddimoto is introducing a range of new designs for its quality balance bike. With a retro pop of colour and decorative floral pattern, little ones are sure going to bloom with Fleur, launching for spring 17! Matching bells, horns and helmets will complete this stand out, fresh spring look. Fleur products include the Kurve bike, helmet, bell and gloves. Inspired by ferocious dinosaurs, Fossil is 74

Feature Outdoor.indd 9

perfect for all dino-mad little ones! The bold and eyecatching pattern features the mighty tyrannosaurus rex, brachiosaurus and stegosaurus, and matching bells, horns and helmets are available to complete this roar-some look. Star is the latest design from Kiddimoto, a bright and colourful look that is sure to delight toddlers and adults alike. Ideal for cool kids, the vivid colours in Star’s funky designs come on matching bells, horns and helmets to complete this superstar look.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:31

Looking smart! MOOKIE TOYS 01525 722722 www.mookie.co.uk

create visibility

Mookie Toys is set for a big 2017 in the outdoor category, with big changes across Swingball, TP Toys and Smart Trike. Mookie has taken the bold decision to redesign, repackage and update the Swingball brand. For the past 40 years Swingball has been one of the biggest selling outdoor toys, selling over 12 million units, and expanding from just one SKU to an entire sports range. At London Toy Fair Mookie unveiled a new Swingball logo, packaging and product design. In addition to this there will also be a new Swingball TV advert which will be premiered during the Easter holidays. The move is designed to offer a more holistic and consistent brand message which effectively communicates the range and brand messages to the consumer, where each SKU now has a clear position in the market and target audience. The Swingball rebrand will be supported with a TV campaign throughout the summer months and strong PR support. For A/W Smart Trike will be launching the revolutionary Folding Trike. The Smart Trike Folding Trike comes with all the great features consumers expect, including the patented Touch Steering swivel wheel for easy transition between parent and child control and a folding canopy. However, it will now fold into a bag small enough to carry on a plane as hand luggage or pack into the boot of a car without having to dismantle it. With the patented technology, no other trike is able to fold to a size as small, making the Smart Trike Folding Trike the most portable and easy to store. The Smart Trike

Folding Trike will be launched with a heavyweight TV campaign, strong PR and online activity using popular influencers and vloggers. TP Toys will be launching a new range of painted playhouses, after the success of their playhouse range in 2016. The market for children’s wooden playhouses has shown significant growth, and TP’s new painted range will mean that parents no longer need to pre-treat the wood before assembly. TP has also designed a new toddler play centre, which is perfect for children as young as one to keep active, discover the world, swing, slide and explore the sandpit. For the Trampoline market, TP Toys has a new updated Genius Round range. TP’s most popular range still features the patented SurroundSafe and Igloo Door technology for safety, and has been updated with a new stylish blue and black paint colourway. TP toys will be back on TV for the key months of the year, including the Easter holidays and build up to the summer.

Create Visibility in the Leading Toy Trade Magazines! Belgium: Kids Universe, China: Toys & Hobby, Finland: Lelukauppias Germany: das spielzeug, Japan: Weekly Toy News Netherlands: Speelgoed en Hobby, Norway: Baby, Hobby & Leketøy Poland: Świat Zabawek, Spain: Juguetes B2B, Sweden: Lek & Babyrevyn United Kingdom: Toys ‘n’ Playthings, USA: The Toy Book

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MARCH 2017 Feature Outdoor.indd 10

ITMA Presidents: Lena Hedö Lek & Babyrevyn, Sweden e-mail: lena@lekobaby.se Telephone: +46 70 590 77 33

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03/03/2017 16:31

FEATURE

OUTDOOR TOYS

Power ahead RE:CREATION 01189 736 222 www.recreationltd.co.uk While recent launch HoverTrax 2.0 continues to drive strong interest, Re:creation is also set to introduce further lithium-fuelled rides from Razor’s. The RazorX Cruiser lithium-powered electric skateboard is a high performance ride that is accessible to more riders than ever. With geared rear-wheel drive, this ride-on can reach speeds of up to 10mph with up to 40 minutes of continuous use. Lithium power also packs a punch in Razor’s new electric scooter offering, Power A. This ultralight ride-on features a patent-pending antirattle and its high torque motor can reach speeds of up to 10mph with a continuous ride time of up to 45 minutes. Power A will join Razor’s electric scooter line-up including the ever popular

Power Core E90 and E100 electric scooters. The recently launched HoverTrax 2.0 ride-on is off to a strong start, and will continue to be a focus in 2017. With its exclusive EverBalance technology, it is the only hover board that auto-levels for the smoothest ride possible. With a cruising speed of 8mph, HoverTrax 2.0 features two riding modes including a training mode to help build rider confidence. Joining the popular A5 Lux scooter, Razor has a line-up of five stylish new additions for later this year that are ideal for taller riders. Among the new scooters is the Razor A5 Air. With shock-absorbing pneumatic tyres and anti-rattle, plus easy-fold design, this scooter delivers a uniquely smooth and comfortable operation making it ideal for commutes. Re:creation will continue to keep Razor top of mind in 2017 with heavyweight TV, PR and event activity.

New heights TOY STATE 020 8440 5060 www.toystate.com Toy State’s Nikko brand has been a leader in RC for more than half a century, and the launch of Nikko Air this fall is sure to take it to new heights. In December the Drone Racing League, the premier drone racing circuit for elite FPV pilots around the world, announced a three-year licensing and global sponsorship deal with Toy State. The deal centres on the first and only co-branded, racing toy drone from Toy State’s upcoming drone line Nikko Air. DRL Nikko Air Drones will be available in stores this autumn, hitting retail shelves on the heels of DRL’s second season. Don’t miss out on the latest Nikko Air Race Vision™ 220 FPV Pro. Leverage the latest technology used by Drone Racers and deliver the ultimate immersive experience for aspiring racers to see exactly what the drone sees as it happens. Also coming in the autumn is the DRL Nikko Air Elite 115 Race Set. Allowing pilots in training to perfect their skills, create custom race tracks, and challenge friends, it’s designed for every experience level and is highly durable. This racing drone is the perfect solution for new pilots to master their skills.

Feature Outdoor.indd 11

Ride on! YVOLUTION

0800 802 1197 www.yvolution.com Yvolution has something for all ages when It comes to outdoor fun, and 2017 is set to be a big year with new scooters, boards, heels and more hitting the shelves. For a child’s first scooter the Y Glider is already a proven winner, and for 2017 Y Glider is smarter yet with the added ability to adjust the patented lean-to-steer system as kids progress through the ranks. Kids can also choose their own colourful deck and wheel inserts to suit their style. Also part of the range is the Y Glider Deluxe and the Y Glider XL for kids aged five-plus. Not to be missed is the Neon Collection, which has already brightened up dark nights with light up skateboards and scooters, and is now adding to the range with Neon Kyx light up trainers. Packed with LED lights in four cool settings - pulse, flicker, strobe and gradual teens and tweens can choose between seven different colours to match their mood or outfit. These are scorching hot trainers that are sure to make a serious fashion statement!

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:32

Email: sales@simbasmoby.com Tel: 01274 765 030 Simba Smoby.indd 1

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03/03/2017 16:36

S R O D A S S A B AM

Burn baby, Three-year-old Edison and his dad Kevin put Bruder’s Scania Fire Engine through its paces Wow! This was our first reaction, mine and my son Edison's, when we saw this amazing Bruder R Series Scania Fire Engine. It certainly is a class bit of kit! I think the best place to start describing this terrific toy is the amazing quality. It is tremendously well-made — so solid and authentic in every single way. Unboxing the fire engine was a joy in itself for Edison — he couldn’t get it out quick enough! The box allows you touch and feel the toy, which I think is a really crucial element, especially when you’re spending fairly big amounts of money (this toy retail for between £65 and £90). It helps make the buying decision for you if you can feel what you’re buying before

parting with your cash. Back to the opening of the toy, unusually for items like this it wasn’t a case of using screwdrivers, scissors and Swiss army knives to get the thing out. It literally just opened and out it came. Simple and straightforward. Just how I like it! It was no trouble to put together either: just push the light and sounds module on top of the fire engine’s cabin and away you go. The little module is brilliant, really - four siren and engine sounds, two sets of coloured lamps, lots of choice and the ability for Edison to chop and change his game play. This really is a big piece of kit and once the slewing ladder is fully extended it reaches to well over my little boy’s height. This toy provided hours and hours of endless play and Edison’s

Perfect pup pad play! 19-month-old Austin is a PAW Patrol connoisseur — granddad Antonio can’t help spoiling him with Spin Master’s amazing range — here he tells us about the PAW Patrol Ryder's Pup Pad! Austin and his brothers have every PAW Patrol toy imaginable — PAW Patroller, Lookout, Air Patroller, vehicles, plush and all the rest too — but when I saw the Pup Pad I just had to buy it! His older brothers are often playing or watching YouTube on the iPad, and he is a bit small for it (though he does give it a go), so I knew that Ryder’s Pup Pad would make him feel like a big boy and at the same time give him the chance to pretend to be Ryder from his favourite TV show. Honestly, the toy gets a battering, because Austin

looks as though butter wouldn’t melt in his mouth but he is quite a little bruiser. So he presses the buttons with the pups’ faces on them like his life depends on it. But he loves the phrases and he laughs his head off when I put the Pup Pad's French phrase setting on! All in all, a good little toy that I would recommend. It extends the imaginative play and as soon as the show comes on Nick Jr, the pad comes out and little Austin starts pressing and pushing buttons!

Amazon user N. Cuffy loved the Pup Pad. “Small pad for small hands. Bought for my four year old and he loves it. When you press on one of the pictures of the pups, their phrase is spoken in their own voice. Ryder has his phrase when you press on him, just like the TV show. A must for all PAW Patrol fans.” 80

TnP Ambassadors.indd 1

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:44

y, burn! It is tremendously wellmade — so solid and authentic in every single way imagination was really stretched. He used all his little toys and figures to play the parts of the fire crew and other characters played the parts of toys needing rescuing. As such, I decided to buy the little Bruder fire crew too and am waiting for them to arrive. The other thing that pleased me, and him too of course, was that the fire engine has loads of clever little handles, wheels and bits and bobs. He used every little device on the truck to make it work to its maximum ability — he used the stand

to keep the engine still, the ladder was up and down constantly, the doors where open and closed all day, the hose was reeled and unravelled and then reeled again — it was exhausting to watch! Edison has two brothers, and frankly the toys they have get real bashing, but as expected from Bruder, this is one seriously robust toy. The sticking point? There isn’t one. The price may be a bit heavy but I genuinely think it is worth every penny and some.

Amazon shopper RattyCube is envious of his son's Bruder Scania Fire Engine! “I'm slightly jealous of my son - if only we had this when we were young! My son loves it. I was a little hesitant buying this because of the price, however the quality of the item is brilliant. It’s exceptionally well made.”

Outfoxed!

Four-year-old Latimer needed an outfit for World Book Day and only a fox would do! He tells TnP all about why he chose Rubie's Mr Fox outfit... "I love reading Peter Rabbit and Fantastic Mr Fox — so when my teacher told us that we had to dress up for World Book Day I told my mummy that I wanted to go as a fox. My mummy looked on Google and found this outfit and it came the next day from the postman. Mummy says it is made by Rubie's and that I have other costumes made by Rubie's — all my superhero outfits are. I wore this on 2 March to school and I brought my two books in too so we can read at school. I love dressing up and I was really excited to show my friends at school my outfit. Maybe next year I might go as Mr Twit from the Twits or maybe Ash from Pokémon."

Carly Downer bought Rubie’s Mr Fox costume for World Book Day. She reviewed the product on Amazon.

“The product was so much better than I had thought it would be. Brilliant product, for a very good price. Five stars!”

MARCH 2017 TnP Ambassadors.indd 2

03/03/2017 16:44

FEATURE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Class act

Posh Paws

Back to school brings a peak season of spend and high street traffic in late August. TnP learns how savvy toy retailers can do big business before the sun sets on the summer holidays

he summer holidays may seem to stretch on forever, but eventually it’s time for parents and school children to make their annual trip to the shops to stock up on school supplies. With parents prepared to spend, and kids who want the hottest, coolest back to school goodies, many toy retailers are tapping into this burgeoning seasonal peak. “The return to school for a new academic year has become a time when parents expect to purchase their children a full range of supplies in readiness for the new term,” explains Mark Jeffries, Head of Sales at West Design. Back to school is a key sales period for the supplier, and Mark reveals that as more of its retail partners take greater advantage of the seasonal peak, it has enjoyed year-on-year growth.

We asked…

What attracts parents to back to Posh Paws is another company school products? benefitting from the back to school season, particularly with its licensed “Parents will always want something that looks good quality and will last for most of the year. But I am sure ranges. Lauren Shipman, the most parents will tell you that for kids it is ultimately company’s Group Brand Manager, comes down to their favourite brand at that moment in says: “Last year was a great year for us time!” Lauren Shipman, Posh Paws with brands such as Secret Life of Pets, Care Bears and Thunderbirds bags performing well at retail. Toy retailers looking to tap into this We’re extremely excited about back to market have lots of options to turn to, school 2017 with popular new licensed from pens and pads, to novelties, bags backpacks in our range for and more. And if retailers are already Despicable Me 3, Powerpuff Girls and on to a winner with a particular brand, Animal Jam.” Lauren says back to school products As schools largely dictate what are a great way to pick up some extra uniform to buy, kids have little sway on spend — as well as driving footfall. where that budget is spent. But where “It can offer toy retailers an they can express themselves is in additional purchase for brands that the stationery and accessories they The return are already a success in their stores need. “Toy retailers therefore can to school for a and can easily become an extension take advantage from customers new academic of an existing range,” says Lauren. “It who have a budget to spend and also offers another driver for kids and where the kids get to influence the year has parents to come into toy retailers purchasing decision,” says Mark. become a time during the summer months and the when parents key back to school period.” Licensed product is a big winner for expect to Skip Hop this time of year, with merchandise purchase their tied to top movies, TV shows and children a full more, giving kids the chance to “show their own individuality in the range of classroom,” according to Mark. “The supplies recognised brands also give parents confidence in their purchase and Mark Jeffries, encourage them to invest more in West Design their child’s back to school equipment.” For the fashion conscious, Posh Paws is seeing a trend towards subtler licensed designs. “A lot of kids want to support their favourite programme, character or movie but sometimes want to move away from the in-your-face designs to a more trendy look and feel,” says Lauren. “We’re introducing this approach on the brands within our portfolio that appeal to an older age bracket, Powerpuff Girls is a classic example where you have both the appeal of new fans, as well as the retro appeal of original fans that are now in their early teens.”

“

”

West Design

1 26

Feature Back To School.indd 1

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:48

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03/03/2017 15:14 JAKAR INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, 410 Centennial Park, Els ee, WD6 3TJ â&#x20AC;¢ Tel: 020 8381 7000 email: info@jakar.co.uk

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FEATURE

BACK TO SCHOOL

A doll’s life ARKLU 01 203 773 27 26 www.lottie.com

Got your back POSH PAWS 01268 567317 www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk Posh Paws has a growing range of popular licensed backpacks and plush bags for a collection of properties including; Despicable Me 3, Powerpuff Girls, Animal Jam, Teletubbies, Care Bears, Thunderbirds, Star Wars, Frozen, Minnie Mouse and many more. New for 2017 is a brand new range of Despicable Me 3 bags to support the Minion movie that is set to dominant the big screen and shelves this summer. The brand new high quality backpack range includes all new designs, lenticular bags, EVA bags, bags with sound, trolley bags and of course Posh Paws renowned plush backpacks. There really is something for everyone from young boys and girls to tweens, teens and young adults. Another license that is new to Posh Paws budding backpack portfolio is Cartoon Networks’ Powerpuff Girls. The backpack collection combines a mixture of basic back to school bags to more trendy designs for an older girl. In addition there is a range of plush backpacks available from the more practical plush head bags to the adorable full body backpacks. But that’s not it, also fresh for this year is the Animal Jam backpack collection, the property has proven to be a huge success online with over 5.2 million UK registrations and great sales figures in the toy aisle. The bags also have an added sales driver for Animal Jammers as with every purchase of a Posh Paws bag it unlocks an in game den item – so each user can get their very own backpack within the game. The company has also refreshed and expanded some existing popular licensed bags with new designs coming through for Thunderbirds, Care Bears and new plush bags for Teletubbies. Across all of its licenses, Posh Paws provides a range of styles and price points to suit every age and every pocket.

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Lottie can’t decide what the best thing about going back to school is; seeing her friends, learning new topics, or meeting her new teacher, Miss Fiona. Miss Fiona encourages Lottie and her classmates to work together and to simply do their best, and reminds them that it’s ok to ask for help. The product includes 10 special collector cards featuring leadership tips for girls.

School daze!

LEARNING RESOURCES 01553 819 380 www.learningresources.co.uk Learning Resources’ Pretend & Play School Set has everything young learners need to create their own pretend classroom. Including 145 pieces, detailed resources such as double-sided maps, calendars and hand pointers helps children to build confidence about starting school as they role-play classroom scenarios. The unique, tri-fold structure features wipeclean materials for quick clean-up and storage after use. Learning Resources also offer a language-free, international version of the set that features maps and activities that focus on teaching the continents of the world and the counties of Europe. New for 2017, Pretend & Play School Stamps make the perfect companion for school themed imaginative play. Encouraging children to share positive feedback from a young age, the set includes ten colourful stamps with phrases such as Nice Work, Smart Cookie and Super Star and a two-colour stamp pad with washable inks. Creativity and curiosity is unlocked with the colourful Latch & Learn School House, a new addition to Learning Resources’ growing Early Years range. This interactive play set will pique young learner’s curiosity while helping them learn shapes, numbers and colours.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:48

LEGO BATMAN MOVIE BUNDLES

Perfect for any super hero or LEGO fan, this new collection offers a huge variety of products from luggage tags of their favourite characters to LEGO friendly graphite pencils and Bat-tastic hardback journals – the perfect place for secrets thanks to the invisible ink pen!

UP TO 55% MARGIN

For more details contact: 01303 297888 or sales@westdesignproducts.co.uk LE51727

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Luggage Tag - Batman RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Batgirl RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Mariachi RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Robin RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Harley Quinn RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Easter Bunny RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Vacation RRP £9.99

Luggage Tag - Joker RRP £9.99

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Batman Mini Notebook with Gel Pen RRP £5.99

Batman Journal RRP £9.99

Harley Quinn & Batgirl Journal RRP £9.99

Batman Light Up Journal RRP £14.99

Batman Journal with Invisible Writer RRP £14.99

Batgirl Journal with Invisible Writer RRP £14.99

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Pencils with Toppers RRP £3.99

Eraser aser 3 Pack (Batman/ Robin/Joker) bin/Joker) RRP £4.99

Eraser 3 Pack (Batman/Batgirl/ Harley Quinn) RRP £4.99

Eraser 2 Pack (Batman/Batman n/Batman Easter Bunny) RRPP £3.99 £3 99

TEL: ()+(+ *1/ 000 EMAIL: K9D=K8O=KL<=KA?FHJG<M;LK&;G&MC WEB: OOO&O=KL<=KA?FHJG<M;LK&;G&MC

West Designs.indd 1

27/02/2017 14:08

FEATURE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Paint the picture JAKAR/CARAN D’ACHE 020 8381 7000 www.jakar.co.uk

Smells like school DKL MARKETING 01604 678780 www.dkl.co.uk DKL Marketing distribute ranges perfect for back to school. One of the bestselling collections from Scentco is Smencils: a selection of scented pencils in various themes, scents, colours and merchandising options. For example, the popular graphite Smencils are available in a cylinder of 40 pieces, a CDU of 20 five-packs, or refill packs of five. Another much-loved Scentco collection is the fantastic Smens which has plenty to offer for the stationery category. Black Ink Smens and Glitter Gel Smens are available in a tower display of 24 while Metallic Smens can be purchased in a CDU of 25 or a CDU of five-packs. Brand new to 2017 are the Neon Gel Smens, available as backs of four or as a tower display of 24! What’s more, to complement the pens and pencils, there are a range of brilliant accessories including Smencil Buddies pencil cases and Sketch & Sniff notebooks.

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Jakar has been the sole importer and distributor in the UK and Ireland since 1960 for Caran d’Ache artists materials and colouring products which are 100 per cent Swiss made. As well as manufacturing a wide range of writing instruments, they are famously known worldwide for their artists materials and colouring products. Last year Caran d’Ache introduced a new range called School Line consisting of colouring products aimed specifically at the children’s market. This range is available in metal tins of 12 and 18 water-soluble colour pencils in assorted colours, boxes of six, 12 and 18 water-soluble colour pencils, boxes of six and 12 permanent colour pencils in assorted colours, boxes of 10 and 15 in both water-soluble and permanent wax pastels, wallet of 10 water-soluble fibre tipped pens with water-soluble ink in 10 assorted colours (they are guaranteed to not dry up for seven days if the lids are left off). Also available is a gouache tin of 12 pans in assorted colours, 1x 10ml tube of white, two mixing trays and a paint brush, a blister pack of two Maxi Fluo highlighter colour pencils in yellow and pink and a blister pack of four graphite pencils 2x3B and 2xHB. All of these products are available in the UK. Two merchandisers are also available, a floor standing display measure 58cm width x 163cm height x 38cm depth with 16 metal hooks and a base to accommodate the tins, and a counter top display measuring 43.8cm width x 54.5cm height x 29.5cm depth. Also available is a totem display poster measuring 40cm width x 140cm height.

At your fingertips VIVID 01483 449944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Back to school continues to grow and is now the biggest trading season after Christmas. In 2016 Crayola had an excellent BTS performance across all key partners with retail sales showing double-digit growth year on year. In 2017 Crayola will be focused on continued Back To School growth with several exclusive opportunities and expanding on core range. Supertips continue to be the strongest Back To School item for Crayola with enough Crayola Supertips being bought in 2016 Back To School period to reach the moon three times!

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:49

Posh Paws.indd 1

20/02/2017 12:12

FEATURE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Paint with pride LITTLE BRIAN

01295 768 078 (TrendsUK) www.littlebrian.com Ahead of getting back into the classrooms, why not give a child’s pencil case a colourful makeover and let them start the new term in style with Little Brian Paint Sticks. Distributed by Trends UK, Paint Sticks are ideal for all those art and craft lessons and allow children to have lots of fun, without the usual mess that goes with painting! Providing a clean and convenient way to paint, Paint Sticks have no need for water and they’re quick and easy to set up and pack away, showing how versatile they really are. Twisting up and down, just like a glue stick, Paint Sticks come in a variety of colours from Classic to Metallic and even Day Glow, meaning kids’ creations can have either a vivid, luminous or shimmering look. Paint Sticks don’t just stop at being used on paper either, the colours can be transferred on all sorts of surfaces including wood, canvas and even glass making them ideal for all sorts of activities, both inside the classroom and at home. Well-known and trusted art manufacturer Brian Clegg is the ‘brother’ company that launched Little Brian and is an established supplier of art and craft products into the educational and retail markets.

Bat-tastic fun! WEST DESIGN

01303 297888 www.westdesignproducts.co.uk Since the release of the incredibly popular LEGO stationery, the question has continued to be, ‘what’s next?’ By public, and retail demand, a new LEGO stationery range has appeared from the shadows, the shadows of Gotham! The LEGO Batman Movie has already hit cinema screens and West Design is proud to bring to the world the caped crusader and more in the LEGO Batman Movie Stationery! Perfect for any superhero or LEGO fan, this new collection offers a huge variety of products from luggage tags of their favourite characters to LEGO friendly graphite pencils and Bat-tastic hardback journals – the perfect place for secrets thanks to the invisible ink and pen! With super heroes and super villains being the biggest trend taking over the world and now that The LEGO Batman Movie has topped the box office, this new range will be flying off the shelves! It is perfect for back to school. Not only is it high quality LEGO stationery, but it is part of one of the most highly anticipated films of the year.

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:50

well-curated smartly designed essentials for parents, babies and toddlers

See our full range of product at Harrogate International Nursery Fair 28 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30 March at Hall 5, M62. Contact our UK office to book an appointment at the show. WWW.SKIPHOP.COM

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28/02/2017 11:31 $0

FEATURE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Pencil perfect FIESTA CRAFTS 020 8804 0563 www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

Animal magic SKIP HOP

Fiesta Crafts has the perfect accessory for all children going back to school. These colourful character pencils are adored by all, especially as they are part of Fiesta’s pocket money range! Each pencil is topped with an adorable character, from Kings and Queens to sheep and wolves, and even some of the big names in history – Napoleon, Marie Antoinette, King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria. They make the perfect companions during history lessons. Most of the pencils have cute little legs that make a clacking noise when you jiggle them, and all have intricate and adorable details on their costumes and accessories. These pencils are ideal for making writing more fun, and providing that extra bit of imagination and creativity. These pocket money toys are definitely way more than just pencils, and they make the perfect pocket money gifts.

01582 434250 www.skiphop.com Skip Hop’s zoo collection is a huge hit with toddlers and parents alike. This collection spans across mealtime, on-thego, travel and home accessories and features an adorable array of zoo characters. From Eureka Unicorn to Marshall Monkey and Otis Owl, there’s a zoo character for everyone! The range includes backpacks, lunchboxes, straw bottles, bibs, utensils, rolling luggage cases, storage bins, tableware sets and much more. The zoo collection has won a host of awards in the US and UK. On top of this, the Zoo Otis Owl luggage case made a debut appearance in Heathrow Airport’s first ever TV ad.

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Tasty treats MGA Entertainment 0845 0533 333 www.numnoms.com Heading back to school is an exciting time and Num Noms, the collectable scented craze, is making this even more fun with the introduction of its stationary line. In keeping with the brand’s key feature, all items have a scented element including pages, ink, erasers and stickers. The full product portfolio includes; Stacking Pencil, A5 Notebook, Mega Stationary Set, Pencil Case, A4 Poster Set and Stickers. The stationary product comes from Blueprint, a specialist in designing licensed stationary and gifts. Further back to school product is on its way for 2017, including Spearmark lunch boxes and Alpa bags.

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:51

Vivid.indd 1

20/02/2017 13:59

MEDIA

OPINION

Call to action A ban on adverts during children’s programme? Not on my watch, says Clive

ust as the toy industry geared up for toy fair some challenges inherent to season, a group of far left MEPs were lighting deciding public policy. the blue touch paper to torch the funding Warwick would have provided a model for UK children’s programmes. Before we very informative and interesting go on, the following facts paint the picture: forum for those MEPs in Brussels. Firstly, the EU Amendment 144 seeks to prohibit Furthermore, the debate was audiovisual commercial communications, during and to conclude with a vote after a between programmes targeting children’s audiences. “diplomatic and collaborative spirited discussion on the available recommendations or bans and provide variations Secondly, expenditure by toys, games and toy retailers of options if necessary”. in 2016 in children’s programmes amounted to £191m, I am reliably informed that I changed the minds of some according to Nielsen Research. of the students who had originally thought the ban was Readers of this magazine will know that a proposal a good thing and enlightened them about the benefits of to ban advertising to children has been put before the advertising to children while not forgetting the parliament before. From my experience, revenue funding the programmes. in a situation where two contradictory Readers of I enjoyed the day and the topic, fully aware positions collide, it is normally an this magazine will that the BTHA would be in a real same subject indication that something has gone wrong know that a discussion sometime later this month in in the past, and indeed it has. Brussels, as opposed to Warwick. Without going into detail, proposal to ban Changing topic, I must write a brief tribute Ofcom — the regulator in advertising to to Pac-Man. Over previous years, TnP would 2003 — and Tony Blair in children has been have written many paragraphs on Pac-Man. 2006 imposed regulation put before the Last month Masaya Nakamura, the Japanese that has left the industry parliament before toy and game entrepreneur and founder of with a familiar news Namco, whose company released Pac-Man, headline, ‘UK children’s died aged 91. His passing should not be content production in without mention given the enormous impact decline’. of Pac-Man. Nakamura, working with designer Amendment 144 arrived Toro Iwatani, developed Pac-Man as an arcade game, just before London Toy Fair, as the industry launched by Namco, in Japan in May 1980. was in full toy fair mode, as was the BTHA Creativity knows no boundaries and Pac-Man came to who were also at full stretch. life marketed initially as an arcade game, and licensed The BTHA, together with the TIE into the United States in October of the same year. At the (Toy Industries of Europe), were time, Space Invaders and Asteroids were the most popular already on the case, preparing to arcade video games. Pac-Man succeeded in creating a new lobby MEPs as the proposal heads genre in this sector. towards The Culture Committee Nakamura saw the potential of video games and in March. employed software engineers to develop their own video Meanwhile, I discovered games which could compete with the likes of Atari at that that this subject matter is of a time. wider interest. On January 23, Pac-Man’s list of landmark sales, revenues and users I received an invitation from Dr worldwide are endless. In 2001, Pac-Man was voted the David Rowthorn and Dr Karen greatest video game of all time in the UK by retailer Simecek to speak at the Warwick Dixons. And Pac-Man is part of the collection at the University Philosophy Department Smithsonian Institution in Washington, and on the topic ‘Should we ban New York’s Museum of Modern Art, now television advertising aimed at how about that?! children?’. In a 1983 interview, Nakamura said he I was asked to join three other did expect Pac-Man to be successful experts, each with 20 minutes but: “I never thought it would be this to speak on the subject matter. big”. That big, was 30 million active Unlike taking the argument players across the USA in 1982, with to the EU MEPs, the students over seven billion coins placed into the were there to listen, debate and Pac-Man machines. critically explore an important RIP Masaya Nakamura (right). public policy issue while facing

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Shows that have been supported through the Creative Europe Fund include Channel 4’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

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Clive Crouch www.clivecrouch.com, info@clivecrouch.com, mobile: 07831 670453

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:51

TRADE

Trade talk

TnP loves to hear your views. This month we speak to key wholesalers and suppliers to learn what’s on their minds. We explore the hottest topics.

OPINION

This month, Team TnP catches up with some of the industry’s finest to discover what products retailers are loving at, which categories they've noticed selling well and more... AMY DAVOLLS Head of Sales, Bandai UK Have you been impressed by any retail initiatives recently? To be honest, no. Since the turn of the year it feels like retailers have needed time to regroup and rethink strategies for the year ahead, I think all the activity at the end of 2016 was painful for many. I was very surprised at the lack of activity during the half term, it does make you wonder if there may be a few strong campaigns around this Easter. Which of your products are retailers loving at the moment? Everybody is loving Power Rangers! NPD report +75 per cent growth and we were the number three action property for January. We just can’t keep it in stock! Incredible when you remember this brand has been a top 10 action figure brand for the past 24 years. This growth is all from our core range too, we have the movie yet to come, which looks “I was very surprised at incredible. It’s set to the lack of activity during be a morphenominal the half term, it does make year for us, and the you wonder if there may Rangers! be a few strong campaigns Which categories around this Easter.” have you noticed selling well? I just cannot believe the growth in the games category. It’s incredible when you realise the majority of the growth comes from trading cards. It will be an interesting watch to see how the craze progresses throughout the year. What product have you seen recently that has really impressed you? LOL from MGA, so cute and so collectable. Looks like a winwin!

MARK JONES, Head of UK Sales, Cheatwell Games Have you been impressed by any retail initiatives recently? I think we’re going to see more retailers adopting in-store theatre and activities — this is something that the independents do really well and the leading majors now have it firmly on their agenda.

“We’ve had a fabulous response to our Round Tin Games… we’re really excited to get them on the shelves!”

Which of your products are retailers loving at the moment? We’ve had a fabulous response to our Round Tin Games, they were the big hit of Toy Fair and Spring Fair so we’re really excited to get them on the shelves! Which categories have you noticed selling well? Family games are still really strong even post-Christmas. I think it’s a combination of consumers wanting fewer things to own and more things to ‘do’ and our easy-tolearn, fun-to-play games. What product have you seen recently that has really impressed you? We really loved the Mardles 3D range and we’re all great fans of The Sock Game from Jono and Nick who were in the Greenhouse at Toy Fair.

GARY WOOD, UK Country Manager, Infantino BKids Have you been impressed by any retail initiatives recently? I’m always impressed when I walk into a Smyths Toys store. In my opinion, they are a business that has decided they want their stores to look different and the product always shouts out to the consumer with simple display, a focused range and multiple facings — that means you are always really impressed by the range they offer. Which of your products are retailers loving at the moment? London Toy Fair marked the incredibly successful launch of our Sensory Toy Collection. Best of all, the collection is extremely well priced, meaning it’s affordable for every family. Having sold out in France and the US, we are confident it will be an extremely popular line in the UK and the reaction we received at the official unveiling was phenomenal, with many major retailers on board already. Which categories have you noticed selling well? It seems to me that on trend collectable items like Shopkins always sell well! I love the idea of low price blind bags for kids, as they are a great low-priced gift that foster the highs and lows of collecting and it’s a smart way to drive people into set purchases.

MARCH 2017 Trade Talk.indd 1

251

03/03/2017 17:01

REVIEW

NEW YORK TOY FAIR

The States of play The world’s biggest toy market hosts tens of thousands of toy professionals in New York each year, and the 2017 event was the biggest yet. TnP was invited to dive into the show to learn how UK suppliers can make it big in America

he glass-roofed Javits Centre was transformed into America’s biggest toy box in February as the industry headed to New York City for the 114th North American International Toy Fair. For many, the Big Apple show marks the end of a two-month toy buying campaign that stretches around the globe. But for President and Chief Executive of the US TIA, Steve Pasierb’s money it’s “the best part of toy fair season”. This year’s show was a big one — even by New York standards. “It’s the largest Toy Fair we’ve ever done,” Steve said. And the event’s international credentials can not be called into question: “We have 102 entrepreneurial new companies from 32 countries at the show this year.” With toys stretched out as far as the eye can see across the Javits Center’s multi-tiered show floor, more than 1,100 companies, ready to showcase their latest and greatest, welcomed the masses across the expanded 443,000 square feet of exhibition space.

UK heads to NY Among the crowds, the UK toy industry was out in full force. Casdon’s Phil and Peter Cassidy were run off their feet as they welcomed US and Canadian buyers onto the stand. As with their customers in Europe, it was the Little Helper Dyson Cord Free Vacuum which the North American crowds were loving. “That’s been our big winner everywhere we take it this year,” Managing Director, Phil Cassidy

Review TIA.indd 1

up that trust, they said. “Everything aren’t afraid to sells well across As well as the scale of the order and buy with the ranges, but market here, there’s also a confidence. We the Dyson has greater demand for different find that our more captured the colourful puppets imagination.” types of products draw greater The Casdon Sue Lockey, The Puppet Company interest here, team are compared with the show more traditional veterans and realistic now, looking puppets visiting the that perform so well for us in show for the ninth consecutive the UK. So as well as the scale year in 2017. “Each time it just of the market here, there’s also gets better,” Phil said. “We a greater demand for different move to a different location types of products. That opens every year, and this time we things up even further.” have another good-sized stand to Sue told TnP that she had seen showcase our product to its fullest. a good mix of retailers from the US We’re busy, busy, busy!” and Canada, but also some The Puppet Company surprise walk-ons that had was another UK made the trip across the stalwart at the show. pond even more valuable. A busy Sue Lockey, “We’ve actually met Director, took five some retailers from South minutes away from America, buyers from Brazil demonstrating the and Argentina. It’s been company’s latest great.” colourful and cuddly Exhibiting with their puppets to explain why biggest-ever product the show can make range, the Le Toy Van team a big difference to were upbeat after a party international exhibitors. Arklu say they had a great fair with customers on their “This is our seventh stand on the close of the year here at New York Toy Fair, and each time we meet more retailers and further establish our name. The market here We finished the show feeling is in many ways much different from very optimistic about 2017 the UK and Europe. Retailers and consumers like to buy into a brand Liza Abrams, Sakar and name that they trust, but once they’re hooked and you’ve built

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:54

Trend spotting It’s the largest Toy Fair we’ve ever done Steve Pasierb, President and Chief Executive, US TIA first day. “We’re having a 1,000 stores across the nation. great show — and a very But this year, MD Ian Harkin busy show!” said Marie and Communications Manager Bureau, Le Toy Van's Marie Shields were manning Marketing and Product the company’s first dedicated Development Manager. stand. With two Toy of the “The American market is Year nominations under their hugely important to us belt, the team was at the show and we’ve gone all out this not only to boost awareness year. We have our biggest of the Lottie brand, but also to Team Le Toy Van were out in force range to date available trial some fresh and exciting to US retailers, and we’ve new concepts. created a special version “We’re taking the of our catalogue that is opportunity here to get tailored to the North American feedback from as many buyers and market.” retailers as we can,” Marie said. “We Show regular Sakar enjoyed a have a new range of diverse dolls, packed stand with new hairstyles and one with an throughout the ear implant. It’s all about making sure four-day event. girls can relate to Lottie dolls, and Liza Abrams, diversity is a topic of great discussion Senior Vice here in America.” Prototypes of a tree President of house and stable, two twists on the Licensing, Sakar dolls’ house that better represent was on the Lottie’s character, also went down a booth: “Maybe it storm. was the springThe 115th North American like weather, but International Toy Fair is already this year’s show shaping up to be another winner seemed busy when it returns to the Javits Centre and buzzing 17-20 February 2018, so we don’t with retailers, think they will be the only ones licensors, media — the lot! There was returning. a very upbeat mood all around, and the feeling was generally very positive. We finished the show feeling very optimistic about 2017!” What: 115th North American International Toy Fair Irish doll company Arklu Where: Javits Center, New York already have a presence at When: Saturday 17 - Tuesday 20 February 2018 New York Toy Fair through distributor Schylling, with Why: 1,100+ exhibitors, trend forecasts and more Lottie dolls sold in around

The sales growth in the North American toy industry in 2016

Next year

MARCH 2017 Review TIA.indd 2

The US TIA’s experts have put in the hard work, travelling the country to learn this year’s trends. “All trends are what we’ve discovered in the toy industry’s creativity, inventions and re-invention for 2017,” said US TIA’s leading trend expert Adrienne Appell. Collectables 2.0: Collectables will continue to thrive, from basic and affordable blind bags to more expensive licensed offerings and those that offer dual-use play patterns. Up and Active: Toys that encourage kids to get up and active - indoors and outdoors - are on the rise, motivating kids to get healthy and engage with family. Technology: Emerging technologies from just a few years ago are firmly here, like 3D printing, are more affordable, leading to more tech and further innovation in the toy aisle. Oh So Classic: Low-tech and no-tech toys balance the technology driven play things, as games and puzzles, dolls and wooden toys carry momentum from 2016. Movie Mania: Movie licenses have propelled toy sales to new heights over recent years and this year’s box office releases promises even bigger things. From STEAM to STREAM: Robotics join Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths in this crosscategory educational trend.

03/03/2017 16:54

FEATURE

INTERACTIVE Character Options

In on the act Interactive toys are taking play to new levels, bringing magical experiences to kids and allowing retailers to reach new audience. TnP finds out more...

ore advanced technology is being used in increasingly creative ways to bring toys that are full of It has to be personality to life. Toys that engaging and fit talk back, remember kids’ with its target birthdays and even audience… recognise their face when they enter the room were encouraging their once just a pipe dream but imagination are now a reality. through play So what makes a great interactive toy? For Mark Mark Hunt, Hunt, Marketing Manager at Character Options Character Options, it’s all about meeting expectations — and then taking it one step further. “It has to be engaging and fit with

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WE ASKED… What are your best-selling interactive toys? “Little Live Pets and Teksta Robotics are well established and there is a loyal consumer base for both brands. We ensure the range is fresh and offers newness to drive collectability. Sales of Teksta Micro Pets, Little Live Pets Surprise Chick and Hedgehogs have been extremely encouraging this spring.” Mark Hunt, Character Options “Kidizoom Duo, which even in its 10th year was the number two item in the Youth Electronics category. Showing consistent sales since launch, it remains dependable for both VTech and the retailers. The new Star Wars Stormtrooper Digital Camera is set to be one of the top sellers this year.” Rebecca Lazarus, VTech

Feature Interactive.indd 1

its target audience, holding their attention, exciting and stimulating their creativity, and encouraging their imagination through play,” he says. VTech’s brand new Kidizoom Flix certainly ticks all the right boxes. The fun alien friend can detect faces and will sound out funny alien responses to questions when he’s spoken to. “You can also customise Kidizoom Flix by changing its eyes or background colours to make its appearance unique,” says Rebecca Lazarus, Senior Brand Manager at VTech. “Kidizoom Flix has a camera with a rotating lens that can be used to capture pictures and videos and is packed with lots of other interactive features,” she adds.

Reaching tweens These high-tech features make interactive toys a winner with younger children, who see the personal ways to play as magic. But it also captures the attention of the notoriously tricky to target tween market. “For the older generation, innovation is key,” Marks tells TnP. “They want the latest tech, it has be on trend and socially acceptable among their peers.” Mark points to Character’s new BeatMoovz line as a perfect example. The wearable allows anyone to make their own music or sound effects through movement, as the wrist and ankle bands translate users’ gestures into sounds. “The reaction at Toy Fair to BeatMoovz gives us the confidence that we have something very special; it literally has no limits when it comes to the user’s

creativity.” Toys in this category need to have the wow factor and really excite kids to stand out — and that’s not a problem for VTech with its latest range tied to the biggest license in the galaxy. “The on-trend product designs and aesthetically pleasing packaging of the new Stormtrooper and BB8 Camera Watches will really make these products stand out at retail,” says Rebecca. “With the winning combination of a huge, well-known license and the proven achievements and our experience of this category, the two new Star Wars Camera Watches are set to be a standout success in 2017.”

Big for 2017 So what’s set to keep kids interacting in 2017? VTech’s resurgent Switch & Go Dinos are definitely ones to watch. “The most popular character, Lex the T-Rex, and some of the other favourite 2-in-1 toys are set to make an impressive comeback in 2017,” Rebecca tells TnP. “Depending on which mode you are in, interact with the LCD screens and press the buttons to activate interesting facts and cool sound effects.” For Character, Mark says: “Our portfolio for 2017 has a variety of interaction. Laser X gives kids and adults a real life infrared gaming experience and can be played inside and outside. Boom Blast Stix is an explosive high risk game with a real surprise element and with Five Night at Freddy’s growing popularity we have a scare game that has the shock factor!”

toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 16:58

NEXT GEN SMART WAT C H FOR KIDS

Now on TV! Camera

Video

Motion Games Includes three exciting motion games and a pedometer for your active child.

Watch Learn to tell the time with a 3D style clock face, stopwatch, alarm, timer and calendar. Choose from over 50 digital and analogue displays.

Games & Downloads Play eight included games and discoveries, then download more and more from the Learning LodgeÂŽ.

For more details please contact 01235 555545 trade_sales@vtech.com

TnP smart watch DX advert 0217 v3.indd 1 Vtech.indd 1

22-02-2017 09:59:57 AM 22/02/2017 10:22

FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Cute as a button MOOKIE TOYS 01525 722 722 www.mookie.co.uk

Don’t miss a beat

Mookie is all set for the launch of Cutesy Pets by Silverlit as the company continues to develop its pre-school offering. Designed to be children’s first introduction to interactive toys, each Cutesy Pet comes packed with loads of personality. Cutesy Pets love to discover the world around them. Tilt their head to the centre position and they will begin to walk, or guide their head to the left or right to make them turn. Simply push their head up and Cutesy Pets will wag and begin to bark, or tap their nose down and they will stop walking and begin to cry. With a range of different movements, motions and responses, Cutesy Pets are the perfect first pet for any pre-schooler. There are four different adorable designs to collect each with its own unique personality. Cutesy Pets will be launching with a heavyweight TV campaign supported with PR and online activity using popular influencers and vloggers.

CHARACTER OPTIONS 0161 633 9800 www.character-online.com

Fresh from Toy Fair is Beatmoovz, the innovative interactive app-based gadget from Character. Beatmoovz is a movement-activated instrumental gadget that is worn on the hands and ankles. Budding dancers will be able to produce music, rhythm, beats and more as they move around, magically controlling the beat in perfect timing with their moovz! The Teksta brand is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interactive pets and this year the range has grown to include the miniature Micro-Pets. Small enough for children to hold in the palm of their hand, the Kitty, Puppy, Dino and Racoon Micro-Pets are low priced but boast the same talents as their larger counterparts. In addition to the assortment of individual pets, the range also includes the Adventure Park Playsets which can transform from a track to a wheel when the pieces are snapped together. More interactive pets come in the form of Little Live Pets. Four Lil’ Hedgehogs have made their way onto the shelves in assorted styles along with a cute multi-feature playset for extended play. Autumn will see a smaller world of pets arrive including the cute Teeny Ladybugs, which scamper about and interact just like real insects. Also watch out for Fluffy Friends and the Dream Kitten, the perfect counterpart for Snuggles My Dream Puppy! Learning through play is one of the many play patterns in the Peppa Pig range, and the new ABC Singing Peppa interacts with children to help them learn the alphabet. Pre-schoolers will also be turning their attention to the Tiddlytubbies who will crawl their way into little ones’ hearts this autumn. The eight-inch giggling plush toys have new muted colours with towelling fabric bodies that closely resemble the Tiddlytubbies on the Teletubbies TV show. Available in four styles – Umby Pumby, yellow; Nin, purple; Mi-Mi, light blue; and Ping, pink – the Tiddlytubbies release a tumult of speech and giggles when their tummies are squeezed! Another option is the super cute Shuffle and Giggle Tiddlytubbies. These two delightful 10-inch toys shuffle along and giggle as they crawl.

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Ben is back! GP FLAIR 020 8643 0320 www.flairplc.co.uk

All together! SAKAR INTERNATIONAL 02476 518 500 www.sakar.com Sakar International will roll out a new line of all-in-one Bluetooth Karaoke Speaker and Microphones for autumn 2017. The products feature wireless Bluetooth technology and fun, innovative designs spanning a variety of popular kids licenses. Sakar also previewed a collection of virtual reality headsets and other additions to its Discovery youth electronics range.

GP Flair is ready for the new adventures of Ben 10 which from July 2017 is predicted to be a major player in the boys’ action figure market. Central to the TV show and also the new toy range is the Omnitrix watch, and this new collection has not one but two to choose from. Once fans of the TV series get their hands on these, they can transform into one of the many alien characters just like Ben does.

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20/02/2017 13:34

FEATURE

INTERACTIVE

Watch this space VTECH 01235 555 545 www.vtech.co.uk With a few simple steps, the interactive Switch & Go Dino range simply switches between a cool vehicle and a fierce dinosaur. The most popular character, Lex the T-Rex and some of the other favourite 2-in-1 toys are set to make an impressive comeback in 2017. Depending on which mode you are in, the interactive LCD screens and buttons activate interesting facts and cool sound effects. What’s more, the talk and sound buttons let kids hear fun phrases and dinosaur facts at the touch of a button. Not only are Switch and Go Dino’s being advertised on TV now, they will be back on again in peak season. Amalgamating the huge success of VTech’s cameras and watches with the biggest property in the UK in 2016, according to NPD, the new Star Wars Stormtrooper Digital Camera and Star Wars Camera Watches are set to be top sellers this year. The on-trend product designs include exciting features such as Star Wars mini games, signature sound effects and Star Wars themed 3D-style clock faces. Plus kids can add themed effects to the photos and videos that are captured using the built-in camera. The ultra tough design of the Stormtrooper camera resembles the black and white helmets of the Stormtroopers. Using the chunky grips, it’s easy to take photos or videos and add Star Wars effects, stamps or frames. Play one of the three fun and interactive augmented reality games such as Fighter Battle, where imperial ships appear on the screen, ready to be shot down.

Cute and creepy VIVID IMAGINATIONS 01483 449 944 www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk Hug & Giggle Care Bears are adorable cuddly companions - simply tickle their bellies to hear them giggle and see them shake. Share Bear and Cheer Bear available. TV advertised from July. Meet Nocto Arakno if you dare! This super creepy interactive arachnid definitely looks scary, but get to know him and he will soon become a loyal spider sidekick. Kids can watch as he scuttles along the floor to scare their siblings, or hang him up from his string to protect their room. When he detects any movement he will suddenly drop down, warning off any unsuspecting trespassers - that’s enough to scare anyone! Arakno boasts over 50 interactive features including movement, sounds, moods, modes and lights, which bring him to life, along with four spider-themed games for lots of interactive play! Penny My Cute & Curious Puppy from Animagic is a life-like puppy pal. Just like a real dog, Penny responds to a child’s voice and loves a scratch behind the ear. Kids can talk to Penny and she will cock her head towards them as she listens.

Just like magic MARVIN’S MAGIC 01582 849 000 www.marvinsmagic.com Marvin’s Magic has received a great response to the awardwinning Marvin’s i-Magic. Each set combines a series of timeless magical props with the unique Marvin’s iMagic app to unveil incredible, interactive, secret smart magic for smart devices.

Cook up a treat LITTLE TIKES 0845 0533 333 www.littletikes.co.uk The Little Tikes innovative Cook n’ Learn Kitchen is an engaging and unique play experience with interactive accessories and an integrated app that magically recognises the kitchen accessories. With four modes of play, including recipes, free play, games and song and music, there is endless amounts of creative fun to be had.

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Bilingual babies CHICCO 020 8953 6627 www.chicco.co.uk Sam the Mole is an adorable bilingual educational activity centre, designed to encourage children to learn how to say shapes, colours and animals in both English and Italian. Much more than just a traditional shape-sorter toy, once all shapes have been placed into the correct slot, Sam will pop up to congratulate kids and the game will begin again. It also features a 123 button, which will teach children numbers in both languages, and an ABC button, which teaches children letters in both languages too. With over 30 songs and words in Italian and English, Sam the Mole is the perfect toy to get any child started on their journey to learning new languages. A modern take on the timeless treasure hunt concept, Detective Dog is a walker toy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage children to take their first steps. Coming with an interactive plastic bone, which can be hidden by parents or teachers, Detective Dog is designed to make noises and flash as the child walks him closer to his bone. Once he’s found it, the light on his cap will turn green to let the child know that they have completed the task.

Hands-on fun

THE PUPPET COMPANY 01462 446040 www.thepuppetcompany.com The dictionary definition of interactive states that it is ‘involving the communication or collaboration of people or things’. So what makes an interactive toy that is good value and provides opportunities for learning and interaction? Well The Puppet Company believes the answer is simple: it’s a puppet! A puppet can engage one child, a classroom or a theatre full of people. So if you are looking for a fun-filled interactive toy look no further than The Puppet Company’s range of fine puppets of all shapes and sizes. With over 700 styles there is something for everybody!

Leap into learning LEAPFROG 01895 202 840 www.leapfrog.co.uk LeapStart is an award-winning interactive learning system designed to help children aged two to seven prepare for and succeed at school. LeapStart is available in two models. LeapStart Preschool, for pre-school children aged two to four, includes an ergonomically designed stylus for smaller hands, while LeapStart Primary for children aged five to seven has a pen-shaped stylus to help practice finer pen control. LeapStart works with a library of 16 replayable activity books across four learning levels, providing safe, productive and fun off-screen play. The books, each sold separately, are designed to work with both LeapStart models and together teach 50-plus key skills, from the alphabet and 123s to space science, basic coding and educational problem solving. My Pal Scout & Violet are a pair of super-soft plush interactive puppy pals that help introduce children to words, counting, colours and feelings through a wide range of activities. They also sing over 40 songs, and can be set to play five, ten or fifteen minutes of gentle lullabies. Read With Me Scout and Violet are interactive soft toys that help to encourage a lifelong love of reading. Designed for children aged two to five, Read With Me Scout and Violet come with five colourfully illustrated books.

Globe trotters CLEMENTONI 020 3206 1101 www.clementoni.com Clementoni broadens its interactive toys offering in 2017 with exciting new additions such as the Interactive Globe, which allows kids to explore the world using the optical reader pen. Children can learn about continents, countries, capital cities, surface areas, populations, currencies, languages, territories, elevations, time differences and many more interesting facts. With more than 300 questions divided into different difficulty levels, children can test their knowledge. An accompanying app can be downloaded and used interactively with the Globe, allowing kids to see every angle of the world and heighten the play and learning experience. Also new to Clementoni’s existing portfolio in the infant sector is the Interactive Football Table, a 2 in 1 talking educational toy.

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27/02/2017 09:27

LICENSING OPINION OPINION LICENSING KELVYN GARDNER KELVYN GARDNER

The new IP kings What we license is changing and how we license is changing — can you keep up?, asks Kelvyn Gardner

ith the first wave of 2017 trade fairs now slowly receding from the licensing shores I have been wondering whence truly comes our inspiration for success in the year ahead? Like a lot of folk who have, shall we say, been around for a while, I do sense that we are on the edge of an amazing new world as far as IP rights and licensing is concerned. Platforms multiply seemingly weekly, while the big beasts that currently rule the licensing universe themselves output more and more quality content. The plethora of devices on which to access these platforms and the content they offer also grows constantly, as does accessibility. Some of these devices will be part of your own ranges, of course, so good business for you even before your customer puts their purchase to use in the digital world. A big shake up is in the offing, all the signs are there. One example: how many of you have had requests to fill in surveys from TV suppliers like BT, Sky or Virgin? The one we got at home a few months ago was deeply interested in what we thought of Google Play, Wuaki, TalkTalk TV, and, top of the pile, Netflix and Amazon Prime.

With the established broadcasters doing more and more to popularise their catch up services such as ITV Hub, ALL4 and BBC iPlayer, it has all the makings of a media war. And that’s even before we come to YouTube, the one that may be the biggest challenge to them all. Let’s state right here that there are tremendous opportunities for licensing that flow from this. The new media platforms know that the old mould where

“

Already both Netflix and Amazon have bigger budgets for original, exclusive content than our own dear BBC

”

TV-based licensing was largely confined to kids’ content has been blasted apart already by the likes of HBO. With TV shows such as Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead generating dozens of licensees and scores of products, some of them award-winning, we can safely say that grown-up licensing (as against adult licensing epitomised by examples Fifty Shades of Grey and Motorhead) is a growing field. And grow it will as the new platforms flex their muscles. Already both Netflix and Amazon have bigger budgets for original, exclusive content than our own dear BBC. How astonishing must it be to get to your desk each morning

knowing that your company is budgeting to lose hundreds of millions of dollars over the next few years, a huge investment aimed at the riches that a powerful, global presence as a major player in the SVOD (streaming video on demand) world could bring in the decades to come. Moreover, just as Sky and Virgin are looking at these new threats, so do the newcomers take inspiration from the CabSat boys. Sky was considered a joke when it started, but their own patient investment and deep pockets over many years has won them a powerful position and an enviable customer base. If Sky can do it with old fashioned satellite, what is the size of the prize with broadband and super-fast WiFi, not to mention 4G, 5G and beyond for mobile access? I don’t imagine that my household is unusual — as our WiFi has improved we probably spend at least a third of our TV viewing time now outside of the offerings of the established broadcasters. Once it gets easy to do, it is really nothing to do with technology and is simply a viewing choice. Where do we look for licensing inspiration? Everywhere, it seems. We’ll all need a lot of stamina to research it. Pass the remote control.

LIMA the trade association for the licensing business www.licensing.org/uk email rbeaird@licensing.org

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Brought to you by

licensing T O D A Y

W O R L D W I D E

Party time MIRACULOUS PARTNERS Bulldog Licensing has signed three new licensees to the Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir programme. The new deals will see Maad Toys produce colourin backpacks, shoulder bags, handbags and purses, while Rubie’s is on board for dress-up, and Gemma International joins for greeting cards, gift packaging and partyware. The new partners join a fast-growing licensing programme. Master toy licensee Bandai launched with terrific success, and the 11 February debut of the show on free to air channel POP is spurring sales further — with more product news and marketing promotions in the pipeline. “Miraculous is a truly beautiful show with engaging storylines that tap into the superhero phenomenon,” said Bulldog Group Managing Director, Rob Corney. “This is reflected in a rapidly growing licensing programme that I’m sure we will be adding to again very soon.”

Amscan partnered with the LEGO Group to launch an action-packed new LEGO Batman Movie themed ensemble. The range launched ahead of the movie’s UK release, kickstarting Amscan’s strong licensed offering for 2017. Mel Beer, Amscan’s Licensing Director EMEA, said: “We’re excited to welcome the LEGO Batman Movie to our party and balloon offering for 2017. There is such a buzz around this property and it is sure to make a fantastic party theme. The strength of both the LEGO and Batman brands is phenomenal.” The range features a variety of items to create a fun LEGO Batman Movie party theme, from disposable tableware, to letter banner decorations, postcard invitations and foil balloons. The striking design includes the iconic Batman colours of yellow and black, and of course, contains the key characters for the movie. Batman, his sidekick Robin, plus fellow super hero Bat Girl, laughing lunatic the Joker and mischievous Harley Quinn all make an appearance, to name just a few.

Royal collection

Season’s hottest Mattel has teamed up with Gap to bring a new Hot Wheels fashion collection to retail. The Hot Wheels capsule collection is brought to life with signature prints and the iconic track across 12 different styles. The toddler and boys’ line features quality fabrics, glow in the dark elements and a pop of orange on each product to tie back to the classic iconic Hot Wheels brand. To celebrate the UK launch of the new collection, Gap offered a free Hot Wheels die-cast car with the purchases of the new Hot Wheels collection between 20 and 27 February at its flagship store on London’s Oxford Street.

Disney Princess fans can now collect their favourite heroines with the launch of Topps’ Disney Princess Trading Card Game. The collection features all 11 Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Snow White, Ariel and Rapunzel, plus images and scenes from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. “Children are set to feel enchanted by this new magical collection as they race to see who can complete a full set first and become the ultimate Disney Princess Collector,” said Louise Ramplin, Entertainment Marketing Manager for Topps. “We are also really excited to be able to include live-action movie stills from the new

Beauty and the Beast film which is set to be one of the biggest movies of 2017.” Disney Princess Trading Card Game Starter Packs contain a collector binder, game mat, collector guide, one packet of trading cards and a limited edition card. Packs of eight cards and multipacks will retail separately.

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LICENSING

Smiles for trials Tobar has signed a two-year licensing deal with ITV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here for a range of games and edible treats. The range will feature toys and games directly related to the show alongside a selection of creepy-crawly edibles — including chocolate lollies and a make-yourown pizza set with a bug-related twist. Products will be available from summer 2017 onwards.

NEWS

Tobar CEO, David Mordecai said: “I’m A Celebrity is a household favourite across the UK and we’re thrilled to be bringing out a product range that will offer retailers the chance to help their consumers get involved in the fun!” To accompany the range Tobar will provide a branded FSDU for retailers, and is working with ITV on bespoke video clips for promotional purposes.

MOOSE MEETS MINIONS Moose Toys is launching a new line of collectables based on Illumination Entertainment’s Despicable Me franchise. Partnering with Universal Brand Development, Moose will launch the all-new Mineez range this summer to coincide with the cinema release of Despicable Me 3. Mineez will feature the largest-ever selection of Despicable Me characters, including those from the new film as well as hundreds of others from the previous movies and short-form content, including Gru, Agnes and everyone’s favourite Minions. “We are incredibly proud to be the go-to partner for collectable Despicable Me toys globally,” said Paul Solomon, Co-CEO at Moose Toys. “This partnership with Illumination and Universal Brand Development is a fantastic way for us to showcase the magic Moose brings to developing a sought-after collectable toy line. The global phenomenon Despicable Me franchise is filled with iconic characters as well as hundreds of characters that have never been on shelf. A perfect combination for a great collectable programme.”

Frozen tops magazine charts Egmont Publishing UK revealed it’s mostread licensed magazines in February — and Frozen still tops the charts. An ABC audited circulation of 82,009 between July and December 2016 sees the Disney-licensed title reign supreme.

MARCH 2017 News LicensingMASTER.indd 2

Spectrum of play Fisher-Price has signed as master toy partner for Genius Brands’ pre-school animation Rainbow Rangers. The series follows seven girls, each with her own unique personalities and powers, and is a behind-the-curtain peek at the real lives of superheroes — Earth’s First Responders. As global master toy partner, Fisher-Price will create a broad range of pre-school toys, including dolls and figures, playsets, plush, vehicles, technology and interactive toys, musical toys, role-play and much more. “Bringing Rainbow Rangers to life though engaging product allows us to address the opportunity in the pre-school toy aisle for a girl-targeted, heroic, action-focused line,” said Susie Lecker, EVP & Chief Brand Officer, Mattel’s Toy Box. “We’re looking forward to the continued collaboration with Genius Brands and the incredible pedigree of talent behind the development of the series.” Andy Heyward, Chairman & CEO, Genius Brands added: “We could not have asked for a better partner than Fisher-Price whose pedigree speaks for itself.”

Watch this space Viz Media Europe has mapped out the 2017 strategy for Yo-kai Watch following a successful first year on the market. Season 2 of the hit show will launch in April, with 50 new episodes introducing new storylines and Yo-kai characters. The series will also make its debut on Netflix in July. Hasbro’s toy line will be expanded with a brand new model of the Yo-kai Watch toy and new collectable medals equipped with Yo-motion technology, allowing projection of Yo-kai images. The first trading card game launched in January and will also roll out in Europe in spring. Nintendo will also launch new sequels to its video game series on the 3DS handheld gaming system, and fans can catch feature length film, Yo-kai Watch: The Movie in summer.

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Step back in time A rather personal look back through time beginning with March 1987, 1997, 2007 and 2012 by TnP Founder and MD Malcolm Naish

March 2012 • Hasbro were leading the TV spenders for March with a spend of just under £700,000 at rate card. • We have noticed that app based toys are growing in popularity back in early 2012 with our feature on the subject including app-based toys from Hot Wheels, Jumbo, Character Options, Zeon, Flair, Cheatwell, Mookie and Ravensburger to name but a few. • We include an interview with Tesco’s Lucy Williams who tells us that 600 of their stores promote toys all year round, making it a most important category for them, much helped by their online service that lists over 4,500 toy items.

March 2007 • Youngsters buys five Toyworld stores which are in receivership, the then MD Bob Wiggins is confident that they will all eventually be profitable. • David Allan leaves Brio for pastures new and we wish him well. • Keith Elmer joins John Crane to head up sales. • Mothercare announces that it is in talks with the Early Learning Centre to buy the group for £85 million. ELC have 215 stores in the UK and over 80 stores in 19 different countries. • House of Fraser welcomes five new Hamleys concessions giving them up to 50 per cent more retail toy space. The first will open in Glasgow, then Edinburgh,

March 2012

Volume 31

Manchester, Birmingham and Belfast. • We are hearing reports that Asda are likely to place a bid for Sainsburys. We believe that Asda will check with the Competition Commission over the feasibility of such an offer believed to be in the region of £10 billion.

MARCH 1997 • Would you believe 20 years ago we still had a British toy manufacturing business? Except that Hasbro with manufacturing plants in Leeds (Waddingtons) and Paddock Wood, Kent and Bluebird (Swindon) both announce the closure of their U.K. manufacturing. This heralds the beginning of the end for UK toy manufacture. • Littlewoods announce they are to sell their stores and are looking for a buyer of the whole chain-store division. • Who remembers Graham Webb? The larger than life character who ran Jesmar for quite a few years? Back in 1997 Graham leaves Jesmar to concentrate on his Toy Time company. • Dave Cave’s then best mate David Barker leaves the world of licensing to join Dave’s Matheson Distribution. I write that this means a new double act The Two Daves are set to replace the Two Ronnies. • Tim Waterstone’s brainchild of a luxury department store for kids is announced. Daisy & Tom was due to open in the summer in London’s Kings Road and what a breath of fresh air it was.

March 1987 • Hornby announce that turnover is up by 17 per cent to £14.2m, and profits doubled to £608,000. • More and more ladies are taking up buying positions with the major retailers, much to the disgust of quite a few sales managers and reps. The reason, these newcomers most wi th very little toy experience seem to be taking far longer finalising their toy selections. The times they are a changing! • Woolworths launch their first Kidstore – a one-stop High Street retail store for kids. This invites inevitable comparisons with Boot’s Childrens World. • We highlight the growth of books with cassettes adding that the product package offers the consumer a high perceived value. Leading the way are Anne Miles’ Tempo company, Pickwick’s Tell-a-Tale and Rainbow Communications. • Top selling game Trivial Pursuit comes under pressure to produce a Welsh edition, there already being a Scottish version with an Irish edition due to launch next month. Was it ever produced?

Number 6

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toysnplaythings.co.uk 03/03/2017 17:10

DON’T MISS…

We bring to the fore a selection of the hottest and newest products that will help you sell more. Buyers and retailers, get in touch with your sales contact now!

Product: BRIO Family Home Playset Company: Brio Tel: 01869 363 800 Web: www.brio.uk

Product: Disney Princess Belle Styling Head Company: Just Play (Flair) Tel: 0208 643 0320 Web: www.flairplc.co.uk

Product: Spin and Splash Jellyfish Company: TOMY Toomies Tel: 01392 281 928 Web: www.tomy.com

MARCH 2017 Don't Miss.indd 1

Product: Mr Ring Company: Chicco Tel: 020 8953 6627 Web: www.chicco.co.uk

Product: Porsche 911 Targa 4S Company: Playmobil Tel: 01268 548 111 Web: www.playmobil.co.uk

Product: Arakno Company: Vivid Imaginations Tel: 01483 449 944 Web: www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk

Product: DC Superhero Girls Mash’ems Company: Character Options Tel: 0161 633 9800 Web: www.character-online.com

Product: Bunchems Theme Pack – Glow in the Dark Company: Spin Master Tel: 01628 535 000 Web: www.spinmaster.com

Product: Craftivity FSDU Company: West Design Products Tel: 01303 297 888 Web: www.westdesignproducts.co.uk

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