Toy World attended yet another successful Toymaster show this May with a packed itinerary and lots of friendly faces.
The Toymaster May Show returned to the beautiful DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa from 21st-23rd May, hosting more than 100 leading toy suppliers and a raft of independent retailers for three days of networking, ordering and fun. Toy World reports back on all that went on and all our takeaways.
The Toymaster May Show has long been a favourite of Team Toy World for its relaxed atmosphere, lovely location and welcoming, friendly vibes. This show falls at a time when sales tend to be steadily ticking over for the indie sector, although in the weeks leading up to it, trading was arguably more challenging than it has been in many years. Indeed, one retailer told us it was the worst period he’s seen in the past 30 years, leading us to ponder whether the event would be a little subdued – a reflection of the mood out there in the sector. Happily, this simply wasn’t the case. Arriving early on the first day of the show, we were immediately struck by the buzz that’s created when experienced, no-nonsense toy retail specialists get together with the UK’s leading toy suppliers.
The beloved May Show follows the same format, year in, year out. That meant that once again, the hotel and marquees were filled with over 100 companies, ranging from small start-ups and first-time exhibitors to industry behemoths such as Mattel, MGA Entertainment, Hasbro, Spin Master, Character Options, Lego, Tomy and Epoch. Even early in the morning of day one, before visitors could possibly have had time to look round the whole show, suppliers were reporting that healthy-sized orders were rolling in – one had even opened two new accounts by 11am – which is exactly what the show is all about.
Indie retailers have told us for years that while London Toy Fair is where they do their initial ‘window shopping’, the Toymaster May Show is where they place their main autumn winter orders, turning up armed with spreadsheets and checklists of where to go and what to buy. Reasons for this vary: some say they prefer to wait until the Harrogate show because by then, launch dates and RRPs are firmer than in January, while others say they much prefer to place orders at the event because of its more laid-back atmosphere, with its wide open stands, transparent product displays and genial atmosphere, not to mention the tempting deals on offer from suppliers.
Of course, there’s plenty to be said for also remaining open minded to new launches spotted around the show that weren’t at Toy Fair, or perhaps were missed at a show of that scale – many we spoke to reported that they’d uncovered some hidden gems.
The first day of the Toymaster May Show wrapped up with an evening of food, music, dancing and drinks, as suppliers and retailers alike celebrated a successful opening day. John Adam’s Bruno Gallone, who retired shortly after the show, took home a Special Recognition Award during the evening. Toymaster managing director Yogi Parmar, who presented the award, praised Bruno for his warm approach, caring ways and Italian charm, adding: “Bruno has always been a great supporter of both indies and of Toymaster, and always finds the time to help. Bruno, thank you for being you and for all your hard work.”
To read much more of this in-depth review with plenty more insight and anecdotes, click here for the full article from Toy World’s July issue.
