With just one week to go before the show, independent brick & mortar retailers are urged to register for attendance. 

Taking place 21st to 23rd May at The Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, this year’s show is set to welcome over 100 of the very best suppliers to the toy industry, making it an unmissable event for any independent brick & mortar retailer. New exhibitors for 2019 include Canal Toys, Kids@Play and Siso Toys UK.

“The show presents an unrivalled opportunity for companies to get in front of our Members,” explains Brian McLaughlin, retail manager. “Very few Toymaster Members go to previews as they cannot justify time away from their businesses; our show, however, brings all the major suppliers together under one roof, making it an easily justified few days away from the ‘office’. It also affords Members quality time with suppliers, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.”

The Majestic is undergoing a substantial renovation, and visitors to the show are sure to appreciate the work that’s been done. All the public areas are now completed, along with most of the bedrooms, and there are a number of changes to room names and the layout – the Ballroom and North/South Lounges are now a Restaurant and Bar, so there will be an additional marquee outside instead.

“The show guide will be updated to reflect the changes that have been made,” says Brian. “Despite the renovation works, The Majestic still retains the charm and character that attendees have come to know and love.”

Evening events on the Tuesday and Wednesday day night will afford visitors the opportunity to network with friends and colleagues over drinks and food; while the Tuesday night will be an informal get-together, Wednesday will see everyone don their posh frocks for a rather more elegant affair. As it’s Toymaster’s 30th anniversary, a number of awards will also be handed out during the second evening event, to recognise members and suppliers.

Registration for the show is still open, and all independent brick & mortar members – irrespective of Toymaster membership – are warmly invited to attend. Any independents wishing to attend can still register at www.toymastermayshow.co.uk, and anyone wishing to discuss membership benefits and opportunities can contact Brian at brian.mclaughlin@toymaster.co.uk.

To read the full interview, which was published in the May issue of Toy World, click here.