69th Spielwarenmesse sees climb in international exhibitors and visitors, from 129 countries.

The proportion of international participants at the Spielwarenmesse continues to grow. From 31st January to 4th February, 2,902 companies from 68 countries, up from 63 in 2017, came to Nuremberg’s Exhibition Centre to show their products to retailers and buyers from all over the world. Travelling from a record number of countries, 71,000 trade visitors praised the exhibitors’ innovative spirit and energy.

Organiser Spielwarenmesse eG welcomed attendees from 129 nations, with 63% of visitors flocking to the fair from abroad. Asia, Eastern Europe and South America posted the highest growth rates. Even though the duration of the show has been cut by a day, the amount of time spent at the fair remains unchanged, with international attendees setting aside an average of 2.8 days for their visit. The event attracts high-quality visitors, with 86% having decision-making powers, and 83% of visitors have stated their intention to return next year.

The supporting programme met with a positive response from the trade. Tech2Play, the activity area for electronic toys, and the Special Area for Baby & Infant Articles were once again a success, generating plenty of positive interest, and the special show Toys meet Books celebrated its debut, being well received by the booksellers it was targeting.

Having undergone a recent facelift, the TrendGallery in Hall 3A provided retailers and buyers with plenty of inspiration. As well as the three Spielwarenmesse trends – Explore Nature, Just for Fun, and Team Spirit – it also showcased the nominees and winners of the ToyAwards. The jury selected the winners in four categories from a total of 643 entries, up from 635 in 2017, with Silverlit clinching the top spot for its Robo Chameleon.

The next Spielwarenmesse takes place from 30th January to 3rd February 2019.