his issue will be widely distributed at all of the top trade shows,
including New York’s Toy Fair in February, an annual event that
generates a great deal of excitement in the industry and serves as a
springboard for the latest playthings and games.
The oldest children – teens – present unique merchandising challenges for
amusement park shops. Parks across the country are targeting this thrill-seeking
market with souvenirs and apparel, our story found.
In our Toys Section, “It Pays to Play,” we examine the top toy retailers
in the country and announce the Toy Industry Association’s (TIA) Toy of
the Year Awards Nominees. It’s fascinating to learn when many classic toys
and games were released, and we provide a list for easy reference. We also
offer look at toy industry earnings, some of the activities available at Toy Fair,
an overview of the TIA’s leadership and more.
Our Zoo and Aquarium Buyers Association Group (ZAG) section
continues to grow, and this issue we feature three stories full of tips and ideas
on how to run successful retail operations. In “ZAG Retailers Say Toys Are
Top Sellers,” we look at what is popular in zoo stores. We also offer stories
on successful zoo birthday party promotions and how to hunt for new merchandise.
Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and in a special section we offer facts
about the day and spending estimates Events such as Mother’s Day
often call for new advertising strategies, as retailers look for ways to increase
their exposure to potential customers. In our Marketing Section we
look at how the public responds to different types of newspaper circulars and
ads.
A selection of foods are often just the thing a gift shop needs to boost
sales. In our Gourmet section we look at how specialized edibles
such as low glycemic foods and beverages are faring and how factors such as
the Internet and governmental and parental concerns are influencing the
$15 billion kids’ food and beverage market.
We also offer a Hospital Gift Shop Section, a look at which sports
are grabbing the attention of the public an examination of which
Internet activities enjoy the most popularity and a listing of the many
activities that will be available to attendees of the Halloween and Party Show
on Feb. 23-26 in Rosemont, Ill.
We hope you enjoy the issue. Please e-mail us at the address below with
your comments, questions and suggestions.
Scott C. Borowsky
President and Executive Editor
SOUVENIRS, GIFTS AND NOVELTIES MAGAZINE
EDITORSGNMAG@KANEC.COM
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