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The Gathering of the Tribes
February 12, 2009
Every year at this time I get a keen sense of anticipation knowing that our tribal get together, Toy Fair, is about to commence. In my mind’s eye, I look out into the distance and can almost see them coming, flying their tribal flags: The Toy and Game Inventors, Designers, Packagers, Publicists, Manufacturers, Retailers, Advertisers, Journalists, Agents, Sales Representatives, Consultants and more.
They will gather on the floor of the Jacob Javits Center as well as in parties, bars and restaurants. The Women In Toys banquet, the ASTRA get together, the TOTY Awards, Mary Couzin’s Game Industry Get-Together, and countless other parties and events will be points of celebration all over town.
I truly believe that it is this mingling of the tribes that is by far Toy Fair’s most important contribution to the industry. Yes, it does function as a market place where manufacturers show their new products to retailers. I think, however, that the true importance of Toy Fair is as a marketplace for ideas. It is the place where the magic happens when so many intelligent, creative, aggressive, really aggressive and really, really aggressive people come together in one place at one time to cross pollinate their hopes and dreams.
If you are a first time attendee at Toy Fair, or even if you are a veteran, take the time to appreciate the moment. It is a rare opportunity we have to meet new people, see old friends, get new ideas and become motivated to take on the new year.
I for one am excited. See you in New York!
Posted by Richard Gottlieb on February 12, 2009 | Comments (0)
