Toy Industry Association Announces 15% Increase In Buyer Attendance at 2007 American International Toy Fair®

Toy Industry Association - March 2007

The Toy Industry Association (TIA) proudly announced today that over 28,000 buyers, industry executives and media attended the 104th American International Toy Fair at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City in February. This attendance figure represents a 15% increase from 2006's Toy Fair. With positive fourth quarter toy sales and a renewed sense of optimism, exhibitors showcased the newest and most innovative products, while buyers crowded the aisles of the Javits Center in search of items to stock their shelves during the 2007 holiday season.

Global media presence continued to be strong, with close to 800 media representatives--including CNN, CNBC, The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Early Show, Reuters, and the Associated Press--reporting for countries around the globe including England, Belgium, Israel and Japan. The 2007 show was held February 11th- 14th at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The four-day event is the largest toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere, and is the showcase for the newest toy trends for 2007, specifically the upcoming holiday season, which accounts for approximately 65% of annual toy sales. In addition to the exhibitors at the Javits Center, other manufacturers showcased their latest innovations in showrooms in the Toy District and other New York City locations.

"We are excited about the tremendous momentum we are seeing in the toy industry," said Carter Keithley, TIA President." "With holiday sales up and the increased global presence at this year's Toy Fair we are poised for another great year."

A total of 1,236 exhibiting companies from 28 countries showcased their products, which included more than 5,000 new items being unveiled for the first time. International pavilions represented countries including China, Hong Kong and Spain. Special product categories included the brand-new Seasonal Celebrations and Arts and Crafts. In addition, product demonstration areas and drop-in learning centers, helped buyers address their specific needs and provided exhibitors with valuable takeaway information.