PRAGUE — While some insiders question whether the toy industry needs a new toy show, and in a new location, Play-Global CEO Andreas Wissner and his team are forging ahead with the all-new Prague International Toy Fair, set to take place May 27-29 at the Hilton Prague Hotel & Conference Venue. The event will be designed for the trade only, with no general public access.
With the show still in its early stages, Wissner is reaching out to potential exhibitors, both manufacturers and distributors, and developing an attendee guest list. The plan is for the exhibits to be spread over the venue’s three floors, with the bigger, more open exhibit spaces located in the larger downstairs conference rooms and the two floors above for more intimate private showrooms behind closed doors.
“Since 2020, the toy industry has gone through a dramatic change with regards to the international exhibitions calendar: The obligatory 2-3 Hong Kong trips have all but gone and European shows, with the exception of Nuremberg Toy Fair, have been facing increasing challenges due to Brexit and a host of other issues. The development of the L.A. show in the Fall has been a positive addition, however there is currently no significant international toy event in Europe (specifically during Q2-Q3 and even Q4).”
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Wissner expects to firm up exhibitor commitments during Q4, with a cut-off date at the end of the year. Special hotel room rates and other show-related offers are available upon request.
Wissner expects this to be an annual event, telling Toy World: “Feedback has been universally positive — far better than we had imagined — so we are increasingly optimistic that we’ll put on a strong first show in 2025 and that we can continue to build on that momentum into the future.”
Play-Global specializes in sales, long-term growth and development, and management of children’s toy brands in Central and East Europe, including licensed toys from leading brands.
Prague is home to the second-largest private exhibition of toys in the world, which includes toys from all over the world, spanning from ancient Greece to the present.
“Prague International Toy Fair addresses the ever-changing global climate, changing buying and selling behaviors, and the need for a strong, European-based, truly international show,” Wissner told Toy World magazine. “The show will be held in the very heart of Prague, utilizing its strategic central location and the many benefits of showing in an EU state, including ease of access. We’re offering a flexible events strategy with its own unique style, and the ability to accommodate growing demand without compromising exhibitors, low prices and favorable business terms, as well as a stunning location.”
A website is still under development. Meanwhile, contact Wissner at info@pragueinternationaltoyfair.cz for more information.
