Learning Express Among Retailers Who Consider Preview & Holiday Market “Essential” to Business

July 18, 2022 | With hundreds of toy companies preparing to exhibit at The Toy Association’s 2023 Preview & 2022 Holiday Market, buyers are making plans to get in facetime with toymakers from September 20 to 22 at the Dallas Market Center. Buyer registration is now open.

Lisa Visco, vice president of merchandising at Learning Express, who provides support to all Learning Express storeowners across all areas of buying and inventory control, said because there have been so few in-person shows in 2022, it was essential for Learning Express to make The Toy Association’s Preview & Holiday Market a priority this year.

“The Toy Association’s events in Dallas have always provided great opportunities for us to meet with our vendors to strategize for the coming year as well as to see product early in its development cycle. This has also allowed input that can help make the product more saleable,” she said. “The best part about attending this trade show will be the ability to work in-person with our vendor partners, and to see actual product. While Zoom meetings have been a great way to stay connected over the past few years, nothing can replace meeting in person.”

A wide range of exhibitors – including Basic Fun!, Jazwares, Bonkers Toys, Hape, PlayMonster, Melissa & Doug, and many more – will be on site showing their top 2022 holiday drivers and previewing 2023 product. With the option to display their toys in closed, open, or hybrid booths, companies will have the opportunity to meet privately as well as take walk-in appointments. See the latest floorplan here.

“Perhaps more than ever, there is so much value in being in Dallas this September,” said Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. “In just three days under one roof, buyers can shop the full spectrum of holiday must-haves while also scouting the creative innovations currently in development across every category. It truly is a one-stop shop for buyers looking to solidify plans for year-end and beyond.”

Showgoers are also invited to be a part of the TOTY Awards and Opening Night Party, which will take place on night one of the toy show and bring the industry together to unveil the much-anticipated TOTY winners and support the philanthropic work of The Toy Foundation.

Toy companies interested in exhibiting can apply and buyers can register at ToyAssociation.org/PreviewMarket.