The changes will coincide with its 70th anniversary event from 30th January to 3rd February 2019.

The Electronic Toys product group will celebrate its debut. In addition, ground-breaking changes are afoot in the Festive Articles, Carnival, Fireworks and Model Railways and Model Construction product groups. Commenting on these changes, Ernst Kick, CEO Spielwarenmesse eG, states: “These steps are necessary if we are to respond to the changing market and reflect the needs of buyers and retailers.”

Initial talks with exhibitors took place at the last event. The response so far has been positive, particularly with regard to the biggest move: Model Railways (until now in Hall 4A) and Model Construction (until now Hall 7A) are to be merged in Hall 7A. This move will allow the fair to reflect the international diversity of both sectors in a single location, offering a wide portfolio to their identical target groups. Both well-known brand manufacturers and smaller niche suppliers will come together to create an inspiring and comprehensive mix of products. At the same time, the profile of the Model Construction segment will be raised by relocating those suppliers whose ranges target the toy trade as opposed to stores specialising in model construction. They will be moved to Hall 4A.

A new product segment for Electronic Toys will be created, encompassing RC vehicles, drones, planes, robots and much more. This new distinction provides independent retailers and buyers with valuable guidance in the field of technology and digitalisation, both of which have evolved from a fleeting fad to a firm facet of the toy sector. The foundations for this latest move were laid in 2017 when the Tech2Play activity area was first introduced. This popular feature is set to stay and will continue to attract widespread visitor attention into the future.