In a revision to its previously released April dates, INDX Toy & Gift will now be returning to Cranmore Park Exhibition and Conference Centre on 14-15 March 2023. To reflect a more inclusive product offer, the show has also changed its name from INDX Toys & Nursery Gifts to INDX Toy & Gift.
Organised by Associated Independent Stores (AIS), the UK’s leading buying group for Fashion, Home, and Leisure, the show’s new direction is a result of feedback from retailers and suppliers. Subsequently, the new March dates have been chosen to align with the industry’s key order-writing window.
Commenting is Rosie Marshall, Head of Toys & Children’s Gifts at AIS
“By bringing our next show forward to 14-15 March, we’ll be offering greater accessibility to a wider audience. We understand that April is a key time for our garden centre and department store retailers, so holding the show in March will enable them to see the latest products and be prepared for the Easter holiday trade.”
In addition to covering licensed products, toys, games and preschool, the 2022 show also effectively launched into the nursery gift arena. Building on that success, the 2023 show will see further expansion into the gift sector, allowing for a strengthened product showcase to fit a wider variety of retail spaces.”
Suppliers have been quick to praise the changes
“What a sensible, positive and fantastic move by the AIS/INDX Team,” says Simon Prest of Orchard Toys. “The new dates will be welcomed by all previous exhibitors/suppliers and should encourage new ones. We invest in the show with the hope of seeing the maximum number of AIS Members along with other buyers outside of the group. The date change will allow the garden centres to attend and the name change will bring a new dimension to the show attracting a wider audience, which will lead to a more successful event.”
“A new identity as the Toy & Gift show is a good differential that gives AIS the opportunity to embrace and market its unique position,” adds Nicola Bergot of Magic Box Toys. “Bringing the timing forward to a new March date nicely spaces out the toy trade show calendar and should mean that as suppliers we can meet AIS Members, plus a broader group of retailers, including garden centres, department stores and other buyers from stores across the toy and gift industry.”
Key toy suppliers exhibiting in 2023 include Character Options; Top Model; Hasbro; Funko; Moose; Ravensburger; Spin Master, and Schleich. They will also be joined by gift sector suppliers including Hippychick, Tonies, Happy Horse and Bam Bam.
INDX Toy & Gift welcomes all retailers. Admission is free and visitors can take advantage of free onsite parking plus complimentary barista coffee and refreshments. Click here for further information and visitor registration. Exhibitor enquiries should be directed to Faz.Akhtar@play-room.uk.com.
