Epoch Making Toys, the company behind best-selling toys Sylvanian Families and Aquabeads, opened its new UK headquarters in Uxbridge.

Toy World was invited, along with retailers, press and other special guests to the event, which was also marking the 60th birthday of parent company Epoch, whilst recognising the start of the UK business’ fifth year of trading.

Michihiro Maeda, Global CEO of Epoch, was at the party where he cut the ribbon and officially opened a new, state-of-the-art toy showroom, built to replicate the Sylvanian Families Cosy Cottage, the brand’s most iconic product.

Mr Maeda gave a short presentation detailing the 60-year history of Epoch, while UK managing director Neil Bandtock touched upon the company’s sales and marketing strategy and future plans. The presentation finished with a highly anticipated ‘sneak peek’ of the new Sylvanian Families products to be launched in 2019.

Neil Bandtock, Epoch Making Toys’ managing director, commented: “The fact that our offices are not only so close to Heathrow, but also only half an hour from about 80% of the UK Toy Industry, will allow for easier access for our customers and some exciting times ahead for Epoch Making Toys, both internationally and throughout the UK.”

The event culminated with the appearance of Sylvanian Families character mascots, who posed for photos with guests and gathered around Mr Maeda as he cut a celebratory cake which marked Epoch’s special anniversary.

The celebrations come off the back of a busy start to the year for Epoch Making Toys, which has just launched the Sylvanian Town series into the UK market, the biggest new product launch in the brand’s history.