Hong Kong 2009: Day 4

Brian Maggio, wrote in a comment that: “It would be great to get an update on products that really stand out…, especially for those who couldn’t make it over this year.”

Brian, thank you for the suggestion. It is my practice in this blog not to comment on specific products but I can tell you that I have engaged in and overheard several conversations in which buyers and reps have commented on having seen some outstanding and innovative new products. So, feel good about the future because more good toys are in the pipeline.

Beyond the product issue, I am finding that attendees are adjusting to market conditions and moving forward with realistic yet positive attitudes. One major buyer commented to me that she was glad 2008 was over and, though 2009 may not be much better, at least her and her company’s expectations are in line with current conditions. She knows what she is up against and what she has to do. Similarly, an industry leader told me that he had moved from contemplating changes he needed to make to implementing them and he feels more positive since he began that phase. Finally, a sales representative told me that he is getting good responses from buyers in his presentations. He feels they will be more conservative in their purchases but he will do all right.

We are an industry with resiliant people.  Bottom line:  Never bet against the toy industry.