Planning for the 72nd edition of the Spielwarenmesse fair has moved into top gear for the organiser Spielwarenmesse eG.
Retailers, buyers and exhibitors are looking forward to meeting again in person at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre from 2 to 6 February, when the leading international trade show for toys, hobbies and leisure will give them the opportunity to discover innovations and new trends and glean fresh ideas for their businesses.
“In the toy sector in particular, there is just no substitute for face-to-face communication. The visitor has to actually be there to experience the products with all the senses and develop new business relationships”
Christian Ulrich, spokesperson for the executive board of Spielwarenmesse eG
Christian Ulrich, spokesperson for the executive board of Spielwarenmesse eG, said: “In the toy sector in particular, there is just no substitute for face-to-face communication. The visitor has to actually be there to experience the products with all the senses and develop new business relationships. We are already noticing in our discussions that people are looking forward to the event with joyful anticipation, and we are getting thoroughly positive feedback.â€
Currently retailers can expect to encounter 1,700 leading producers and innovative start-ups from 62 countries, including all the market leaders. Already, total bookings account for about 80% of the floor space occupied at the last fair.
French firm Djeco, for example, has already secured its space. “We are looking forward to meeting our customers and business partners again next February at the Spielwarenmesse,†said export manager David Sainte-Cluque. “It is an important meeting place for the launch of our new collections and for strengthening our business relationships.â€
As far as retailers are concerned, willingness to make the journey is similarly massive: a representative survey of visitors by Spielwarenmesse eG found a clear vote in favour, with 77% planning to visit.
Among these is Sue Warfield, president of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), who said: “I’m so looking forward to attending Spielwarenmesse again in 2022. Meeting with companies, retailers and sales agents from around the world and seeing new products in-person makes such a difference in energising our industry. Sharing information and learning from others is what helps our Association stay relevant and grow.â€
To ensure the Spielwarenmesse runs smoothly, a sound and workable hygiene plan has been developed in consultation with the health authorities and the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre.
Christian commented: “The time has come when we are able to fulfil the widespread desire to bring back the real trade fair experience. We warmly invite all those involved in the market to the Spielwarenmesse, where a perfect mix of tried-and-trusted structures and new highlights awaits them.†The list of exhibitors will be available online from 17 November.
