The Toy Association reaffirms LA's status as a crucial toy industry hub with its 2027 preview market dates, alongside major product launches and retail strategies for the holiday season.
The Toy Association has announced the dates for its 2027 Spring and Fall Preview Market Weeks in Los Angeles, reinforcing the city’s status as a pivotal hub in the toy industry. As reported by Global Toy News, the spring event will take place from May 17-21 and the fall market from September 13-24. These market weeks not only provide manufacturers, retailers, and buyers with opportunities to connect and preview upcoming product lines but also reflect the growing demand for the Toy Building, which is expanding to include 50,000 additional square feet of showroom space.
Elsewhere in the industry, Hamleys has revealed its annual “Festive 15” list, a curated selection of toys expected to be hits this holiday season. According to The Toy Book, the eclectic mix on the list highlights consumer trends and provides insights into what might drive holiday sales. As Karen Dennett, Senior Buyer at Hamleys, notes, a broad range of factors influence what earns a spot on this coveted list, underscoring the dynamic nature of toy retailing.
Licensing agreements continue to drive product launches, with Just Play releasing a new “Cat in the Hat” toy collection to coincide with the character’s return to cinemas. The Toy Book outlines how Just Play has created an array of plush toys and collectibles as part of its role as the film’s master toy licensee, a position secured earlier this year through a multi-year agreement with Dr. Seuss Enterprises. This range includes beloved characters from the Dr. Seuss universe, and with availability already rolling out to major retailers, it’s set to attract families looking to expand their collection.
Simultaneously, Claire’s is launching an exclusive Disney Villains collection in partnership with Disney, featuring items inspired by beloved characters such as Ursula and Maleficent. As The Toy Book details, the collection encompasses beauty products, jewelry, and accessories, all retailed at under $30. This launch underscores the ongoing collaboration between fashion retailers and entertainment giants, offering consumers a new avenue to engage with beloved franchises.
