It’s Spring So It Must Be ToyCon

Well, it’s spring and that means it’s time for ToyCon. For those not familiar with it, ToyCon is a gathering of toy industry leaders. It draws industry leaders (primarily manufacturers) with a smattering of people in other areas. It’s enjoyable, it’s smart and it’s amazing that more people don’t attend. It’s really a nice chance to talk to industry leaders at a time when they are not in their customary state of angst that results from having to set up a showroom or booth and than do as much business as possible in a few days. 

I having been going to ToyCon for some time now so will be interested in seeing who shows up this year.   A decision to attend or not attend will, I believe, in some ways speak to how people see the recession and their response to it. 

I think it will say something about whether people see educational / networking events like ToyCon as an investment or an expense. Those who perceive it as an expense will see cutting back travel as a means of lowering expenses during reduced times and thereby saving money for their company. Those who see it as an investment will see attending as a means of learning something new or meeting someone new and thereby growing their company.

No one view is right or wrong. Why do I go? Well, I obviously one of those who see ToyCon as an investment. But there is also another reason; I just plain enjoy getting together with everyone. It feels good.