International participation remains high, with new innovations proving popular.
Boasting an improved hall structure, innovative products and a colourful supporting programme, the Spielwarenmesse celebrated its 70th anniversary with industry members from all over the world. Both exhibitors and visitors attending the five-day event provided a reflection of the global market, as 2,886 companies from 68 countries presented their innovations to 68,500 trade visitors and buyers, who flocked to the fair from 131 nations.
Factors such as the continued decline of independent retailers and the reassessment of distribution channels are affecting visitor numbers, however the quality of visitors remains consistent, with 64% travelling to Nuremberg from abroad. Paul Heinz Bruder, MD of Bruder Spielwaren, stated: “For us, the Spielwarenmesse isn’t just the most important but also the most international trade fair. The quality of the visitors is extremely high, giving rise to good prospects for 2019.” Ynon Kreiz, chairman and CEO of Mattel, added: “The Nuremberg toy fair brings together the best of our international toy communities.”
The show organiser has introduced forward-looking measures such as an improved hall structure and new product categories. Speaking of new product group Electronic Toys, for example, Sebastian Budich of Jazwares said: “We’re delighted with the high footfall that comes with the move and the strong interest in our diverse product portfolio.” Manuela Pfeifer, MD of Rubie’s Deutschland, also described the Showtime activity area as a great asset: “The catwalk allowed us to show trade buyers many of our new costumes several times a day. This is something we just couldn’t do at our own stand.”
The extended support programme of information and industry knowledge was warmly welcomed by visitors, with talks by highly respected experts all well attended. Licensing now has a firm place at the Spielwarenmesse, thanks to the exclusive LicensePreview and the new LicenseTalks.
Ernst Kick, CEO of Spielwarenmesse eG, summed up: “We obviously have no direct control over the market, but what we can do is ensure that all our actions are tuned to the future. We’re delighted to be the high-quality, leading trade fair that exhibitors and trade visitors expect, and we intend to approach the event with the same energy and commitment in years to come.”
The next Spielwarenmesse will take place in Nuremberg from 29th January to 2nd February 2020.
