The latest issue of Toy World is available to view online now.

The August issue, which boasts Kids@Play’s Harry Potter Magical Infinity Calendar as its cover star, includes comprehensive category features on plush toys, STEM toys and wooden toys. We also take a look at what will be on show at this year’s Autumn Fair, and speak to some leading exhibitors in the toy & games category about their presence at the event.

We’ve spoken to Richard Stone, founder of UK company Beehive Toys, about how independent retailers can benefit from the company’s innovative product range and refreshingly simple terms, and caught up with N. Smith’s MD Nigel Reynolds about the display and packaging solutions making a difference to brick & mortar stores. Victor Caddy of Wynne-Jones IP looks at the potential implications of a departure from the EU for UK toy companies, and familiar faces including Nat Southworth, Jim Hawker and Ruth Clement offer their Viewpoints on topics ranging from the perfect line to sustainable packaging.

Plus, we present the first part of our in-depth look at the licensing industry. Working in conjunction with Brand Licensing Expo, Toy World publisher John Baulch has gathered comments and insight from some of the most straight-talking licensees the industry has to offer, in an effort to better understand how the toy community views the state of play in the licensing arena right now. We’re sure you’ll all agree that it makes for fascinating reading. Part two of this article, which will be published in the September issue, will look at the biggest challenges that licensees and retailers will face in the coming months, and what licensors could do to improve their relationships with licensees and retailers.

To read the August issue of Toy World Magazine, click here.