Welcome to the exciting month of Toy Fair! For those attending the international toy fairs before our Australian Fair, we wish you successful trips, and we hope the jet lag as you arrive at the Melbourne Toy Fair is manageable.
Australian Toy Association
The Australian Fair is scheduled from the 11th to the 14th of February, promising an incredible showcase of toys, games, vibrant colors, and magic. We extend a warm welcome to our returning exhibitors and to those new to the Fair, may this mark the beginning of many more to come.
Throughout the week, there are numerous activities both during and after hours. The Gala Dinner on Sunday night marks the commencement of festivities at Crown Palladium. This annual awards ceremony celebrates industry achievements, introducing a new inductee into the hall of fame — an individual who, through determination and passion, has contributed significantly to the industry’s longevity and success.
The 2024 Rising Star Award will also be announced, with the finalists being Cristalle Sapieja of Let’s Play Games, Amy Lim of Jellystone Designs, Josh Bonello of BMS Brands, and Jesse Marios of Diecast Distributors Australia. Regardless of the winner, all four will join the ATA’s new Mentor/Mentee program, set to launch alongside the Fair.
Other highlights include the announcement of Product of the Year, Environmental & Sustainability, Judges Choice, and Kids Choice Awards. Licensing partners will also be recognized for their outstanding marketing prowess with the Licensing Awards.
Independent industry retailers and professionals play a crucial role in judging these awards, generously volunteering their time for assessment and deliberation. We express our gratitude for their contribution.
Following the awards, media coverage on Monday morning will amplify the event’s exposure, reaching local and national audiences. The 25-year club function on Monday night provides a relaxed setting for members to catch up, welcoming new additions and commemorating those we have lost.
As the fair concludes, Tuesday afternoon features the Women in Toys event with four inspiring guest panelists. Special thanks to our sponsor Jazwares for making this not-to-be-missed event possible.
Throughout the Toy Fair week, don’t forget to explore the ATA Learning Hub and enjoy the insights from our fantastic presenters.
Without our exhibitors and sponsors, the Toy Fair would not be the unmissable event that it is and I would like to take this opportunity to give a special thanks to Bugg Media, Connetix, Hello Kitty and Friends, Jazwares, Just Kidding, Mumpower, Sanrio, The Walt Disney Company, Total Licensing and Warner Bros. for their support.
Wishing everyone a successful Toy Fair!
This article originally appeared in Edition 8 of The Toy Universe Magazine
