INDEPENDENT SURVEY
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Do you feel the toy fair season benefits you?
With many execs now rediscovering their desks after what will have been for some, pretty much a full two months travelling, ToyShopUK asks its listers how they feel about the annual visits to London and Birmingham
“ 20 March
Claire Hainstock Acting the Party “Would have loved to attend, but unable to get there this year. Who would find them useless?”
Lisa Clay Armadillo Toys
“In the tough economic times we are in, you would be a fool not to go to both fairs, we need to be on top of our game at the moment. Product selection is crucial, and you can take advantage of show deals, too.”
Matt Booker
Automattic Comics and Toys
“Just attended Toy Fair, found some fab new products and some great old products at great
prices. Yet again the big boys don’t want to show most retailers their wares though, just kept super secret for the biggest retailers - makes me want to stock less of their product every year.”
Sue Needham Cot ‘n’ Togs “It's good to see new products. However some suppliers seem to have a very long lead time.”
Tracie Peacock-Quinney Ella’s Toy Shop “We go to Spring Fair to look at the new products our existing suppliers are launching and to see if we can find any new companies we may have overlooked previously. As our business grows and
changes it is important we don't become stale.
Ben Biscoe Fairy Goodies “Okay to see new trends, but there was nothing vital there for us as a retailer, although we're pretty niche. We were also there as an exhibitor, which was much more successful. Plenty of new customers (new to us and some new to retail) and good orders. However it was very expensive to exhibit, which puts a huge strain on finances over the year, so still questioning if it's worthwhile even though we covered our costs.”
Amanda Alexander Giddy Goat Toys “I attend Spring Fair and
find it really useful for viewing new products 'in the flesh' and checking out potential new
suppliers. As a small indie retailer, it's also a great way of maintaining a sense of being connected to the toy industry.”
Charlotte Croser Jollys “This year I found the Toy Fair useful but not essential for Jollys Toys. I find a lot of the exhibitors are big companies wanting to deal with the big retailers. It is useful for ideas and to catch up with some existing suppliers. I much prefer Spring Fair and it is a must visit for us. I find many more small suppliers selling niche items which help us to
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