Inside Out

Inventors and creators toying with ideas of how to introduce their new products now have an outlet. FAO Schwarz—more specifically the toy retailer's New York City location—has started monthly toy auditions, where new toys can be previewed for David Niggli, FAO president, merchants and executives. If a toy is “hit,” interested buyers will contact the creators to discuss distribution, cost, packaging and everything that goes into making a toy sell—at FAO, that is! All chosen toys will go up for sale in the FAO store, Web site and catalog. Highlights from the April audition included the Hammerhead sled, a high-end, lightweight sled from CherryMax Sleds, Ferrisburg, Vt., and a frame for kids that shows digital images through a memory card by Storybook Frames, New York. Yes, you can add your own images, if you please. Inventors are asked to present fully developed products only. Toy auditions will take place every second Thursday of each month at the store...The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers Association (LIMA), New York, has incorporated a fundraising plan into the Licensing 2005 International show this June 21-23 at the Javits Center in New York...LIMA's Charity Committee announced several initiatives to help the organization raise $1 million over the next five years for the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF), New York. The Committee created “Partner Tables,” three different sponsorship levels of silver ($5,000), gold ($10,000) and platinum ($25,000), where contributors will be listed on-screen prior to the awards ceremony as well as recognition in the event program. Each table will be distinguished with special signs denoting the level of giving. A silent auction will also take place at the annual members-only reception, Monday June 20. A portion of the ad sales will be donated to CBTF as well as proceeds from the “Ask the Experts” program.