Toymaster members cheer a successful first day at the Toymaster May Show with disco dancing and special recognition awards
Toymaster members celebrated a successful first day at the May Show yesterday evening with disco dancing and special awards.
On the opening morning, key suppliers told TnP they had taken orders before the show had even officially opened.
“It’s definitely busy this year,” one supplier told us. “The organisers have done a great job. We’re always early on to stand, and we had walk ons before 9am and had taken orders before the show was even technically open. It’s brilliant.”
After a busy day of selling and buying, the first well-earned drinks were quaffed. Toymaster MD Yogi Parmar took to the stage to deliver a rousing opening speech to cheers and roars of encouragement from suppliers and retailers.
“At Toymaster, we believe that strong partnerships are the foundations of success. And together, we’re far more powerful than we are alone”
“It’s great to see so many Toymaster members gathered together to celebrate independent toy retailing,” he said. “At Toymaster, we believe that strong partnerships are the foundations of success. And together, we’re far more powerful than we are alone. So make the most of your time here; network, connect and, importantly, enjoy a glass or two of wine this evening. Three cheers for independent toy retailing.”
BTHA chair Simon Pilkington took time to recognise industry veterans with two prestigious Golden Teddy awards. Recognised this year were Steve Kerrison, who operated family-run retailer Kerrison Toys in Norfolk for more than four decades, and industry veteran Gary Squires, described as a trusted advisor to many who is always happy to share support and advice.
“These are people who go above expectations,” Simon said.
The Lego Group was also given a special recognition award by Toymaster chair Chris Blatcher.
“For decades they’ve been a driving force in the toy industry,” he said. “They don’t just create toys, they create toys for learning.”
Christian Pau, VP for Lego Group UK and Ireland, collected the award, thanking members for the accolade.
“This is a surprise. We are truly honoured and will find a special place to display the award at our offices. Toymaster and the independent trade plays a fundamental role in the UK toy industry. We’re very proud to partner with you all. Thank you very much for this award – and thank you for the collaboration over the years.”
Awards winners feted, speeches clapped, members fed, it was time for the evening’s entertainment, as disco fever took hold. The dance floor lit up, and the entire room were on their feet dancing to The Trammps, Chic, Gloria Gaynor, and other icons of the 70s.
