The trade war continues, however the present should go on!
ABC Kids Expo is within the remaining planning phases for its subsequent occasion at Mandalay Bay Conference Middle in Las Vegas, Could 21-23, 2025. This 12 months, the annual commerce present overlaps with the adjoining Licensing Expo, conveniently providing attendees of each reveals the chance to attach, make offers, and uncover one thing new.
Whereas issues about tariffs and worldwide commerce have alarms sounding globally, the organizers of ABC Youngsters Expo are charging forward with greater than 325 exhibitors, 23 of whom simply signed on throughout the previous two weeks, prepared to indicate off new merchandise throughout a number of classes, from child gear to preschool toys to furnishings and past. Some exhibitors acquainted to Toy Ebook readers embody Child Paper, Blue Orange Video games, Delta Kids, Manhattan Toy, Melissa & Doug, Micro Kickboard, Peg Perego, Radio Flyer, Ravensburger North America, TOMY, TriAction Toys, and extra.
In accordance with Aaron Pederson, President & CEO of All Child & Little one/ABC Youngsters Expo, the present stays true to its goal in these chaotic instances: “to deliver individuals collectively, encourage necessary dialogue, and assist us all transfer ahead.”
For extra on what makes ABC Youngsters Expo an necessary, cross-industry occasion, The Toy Ebook caught up with Jill Hegstad, Supervisor of Advertising and Sponsorships, to debate the newest developments.
The Toy Ebook: What makes ABC Youngsters Expo a must-attend occasion for retailers?
Jill Hegstad: ABC is actually extra than simply “the infant present.” It’s a complete occasion showcasing varied merchandise, starting from child gear and toys to attire and items. It’s distinctive as a result of we deliver collectively established manufacturers and rising startups, providing a various mixture of exhibitors. This variety permits retailers to find merchandise throughout classes they won’t have thought-about earlier than. Now we have child shops that may discover merchandise they’ll promote for older siblings. We even have attire shops that may discover plush, items, and room décor to shock and delight clients. They typically discover thrilling new alternatives that might improve their choices and create recent income streams for his or her companies.
TB: How does ABC Youngsters Expo assist retailers differentiate themselves in a aggressive market, particularly within the child gear, toys, and attire classes?
JH: Customers right now have so many buying choices, and so they’re savvier than ever, so retailers actually need to remain forward. ABC is the proper place for that. It’s not nearly seeing the merchandise that might be in demand sooner or later — it’s additionally a terrific alternative to study. Our exhibitors do a tremendous job of not solely showcasing their merchandise but in addition exhibiting retailers easy methods to merchandise them of their shops to maximise gross sales. It’s inspiration central for anybody seeking to develop their enterprise.
TB: How do the standard toy and child markets converge at ABC Youngsters Expo?
JH: We’re positively seeing quite a lot of manufacturers broaden their product choices lately. At ABC, that’s actually on full show as a result of our patrons come from so many alternative markets. For instance, we’re seeing child gear manufacturers venturing into attire, and types historically centered on toys are actually branching into classes like feeding and tender items. Whereas these manufacturers would possibly solely showcase toys at toy reveals, ABC offers them the chance to indicate off their total product vary. It’s a good way for retailers to see the larger image of what these manufacturers provide.
TB: What alternatives does the present present for locating rising manufacturers or unique product launches?
JH: We love rising manufacturers! Many iconic child merchandise truly made their debut at ABC or had been a part of our New Product Showcase over time. ABC is so particular as a result of it’s a extremely collaborative occasion — everybody there may be centered on elevating and shaping the way forward for the juvenile merchandise {industry}. For patrons, it’s not nearly what’s new from well-known manufacturers like UPPAbaby; they’re additionally excited about discovering recent, revolutionary merchandise, even one thing so simple as a single SKU from a mother inventor. For rising manufacturers exhibiting at ABC, it may be their finest likelihood of getting picked up by a serious retailer and even touchdown a licensing deal.
TB: How does face-to-face interplay with producers and model reps at ABC Youngsters Expo affect buying selections or strengthen partnerships?
JH: Conversations at ABC are far more genuine and in-depth than emails or different communication types. It’s a two-way alternate—whereas manufacturers are educating patrons about their new merchandise, they’re additionally gaining beneficial insights into what’s actually taking place within the retail world. They hear instantly from patrons about what clients are saying, how they’re buying, and what traits are rising. You possibly can have remoted conversations, however the sheer variety of interactions over a centered 3-day interval actually offers you the complete image. By the present’s finish, attendees are buzzing with new concepts and energized by the alternatives they’ve found.
TB: What sorts of present specials or purchaser incentives can retailers anticipate to make the most of through the occasion?
JH: The overwhelming majority of ABC exhibitors provide present specials unique to attendees, and these offers can simply cowl the price of your journey to Las Vegas. We see quite a lot of reductions, free freight, and nice provides on “finest vendor bundles.” ABC is commonly the primary alternative for retailers to put orders for brand-new merchandise, so that they get early entry earlier than anybody else. In right now’s world, the place shoppers anticipate quick supply, being the primary to get these merchandise is a large benefit.
TB: What recommendation would you give retailers who haven’t attended earlier than on benefiting from their time at ABC Youngsters Expo?
JH: Begin getting ready now! Preparing for an enormous occasion just like the ABC Youngsters Expo is essential. Observe our social media channels for important updates and sneak peeks main as much as the present. On our web site, you can begin your Show Planner, the place you’ll be able to try present specials, add your favourite manufacturers to your checklist, and start strategizing the way you’ll navigate the ground. On a private word, I all the time suggest carrying comfy footwear, bringing a bag that may maintain a number of catalogs and samples, and carrying a refillable water bottle. We additionally present complimentary espresso each morning and snacks all through the day on the present ground, so make the most of these!
The Toy Ebook group might be in Las Vegas for ABC Youngsters Expo and Licensing Expo subsequent month. The Toy Ebook’s Licensing & Leisure (+Child!) problem debuts Could 20, 2025. Wish to get your organization and merchandise in entrance of shops and the remainder of the commerce in a single shot? Restricted advert area remains to be obtainable!
Contact the advertising and marketing group and guide your spot right now:
James Devin, jd@toybook.com
Stephanie Katz, stephanie@toybook.com
Kate Kenny, kate@toybook.com
Jackie Breyer, jackie@toybook.com
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