By Alice Sanderson — Executive Manager at The Australian Toy Association
Welcome to the 59th in-person Toy, Hobby and Licensing Fair, proudly hosted in glorious Melbourne, Australia.
Across four action-packed days, attendees will have the opportunity to touch, try, and experience products that are uniquely Australian alongside leading ranges from around the world. This year’s energy, creativity, and innovation are all brought together under one roof at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, creating an unmissable showcase for our industry.
With the Fair selling out prior to Christmas, the ATA is thrilled to welcome 165 exhibiting companies to the show floor. Exhibitors will be showcasing an exciting mix of toys and games, educational products, outdoor play, and everything in between. Whether you’re a dedicated toy retailer or a business with a broader product offering that includes kids’ ranges, the Fair is the ultimate opportunity to connect with industry partners, discover new lines, and source products that help drive foot traffic into your store.
Our exhibitors are the innovators and trendsetters of the toy industry, and their passion is evident in every carefully curated stand. The pride they take in presenting their products is what makes this event so special. A big welcome to those exhibiting with us for the first time, and a warm welcome back to our valued returning exhibitors.
From the moment you step through the Toy Fair entrance, you’re immersed in the colour, creativity, and magic that define our industry. Play is our purpose, and the products on display are designed not only for children, but also for the young at heart.
Three standout trends continue to shape the industry this year: the ongoing excitement of collectibles and unboxing, the strength of licensed products, and the ever-growing Kidult movement. Toy Fair brings all of these trends to life… and so much more.
On the opening night of the Fair, the ATA will host our annual Gala Dinner. At the time of writing, more than 500 guests are booked for what promises to be a memorable evening of awards, networking, and entertainment. It’s always a highlight for me, as we celebrate and recognise those the judges deem to be our industry standouts, and by judges, I mean retailers, licensing professionals, industry leaders, and of course, kids.
Throughout the Fair, we will also acknowledge our 25 Year Club members – including some incredible members who are now reaching 40 and even 50 years of involvement in the industry. We wrap up the event on Wednesday morning with our breakfast celebrating the women in toys, whose stories, leadership, and achievements continue to inspire the next generation.
I would like to sincerely thank our media partner, Bugg Media, for their support in the lead-up to the Fair, along with all of our sponsors and supporters whose ongoing commitment helps make Toy Fair such a standout and truly unmissable event.
To our exhibitors, I wish you an outstanding Fair, one that strengthens existing relationships and creates many new opportunities. To our retail partners, happy sourcing, and to all other visitors and attendees, I wish you a productive and successful Fair.
There is so much to see, experience, and celebrate at this year’s event. If you’re part of the industry, this is one Fair you won’t want to miss. I can’t wait to see you all there.
This article also appeared in Edition 53 of The Bugg Report Magazine
