Nuremberg Spielwarrenmesse Toy Fair 2010: Lots of people and lots of languages
I am just back in New York after spending a week in Nuremberg and as always, I am amazed by its sheer scale. It is hard to believe that there is any show of any kind in the world that is as big as this one. There are over a million unique toys on displays and it looks like it. Each hall is huge and there are 17 of them. It takes me anywhere from 20 minutes to a half an hour to walk from one side of the show to the other depending upon whether I take short cuts (always a tough decision as you have to go outside and its cold).
It is truly an adventure to be in the midst of so many people (75,000) from so many countries (115). It is also a bit eye opening to attend functions in which English is not the preferred language. Sitting in the audience and listening to a speech given in a foreign language is a good reminder of what is must be like for those non-English speakers who attend our shows and either don’t have a translator available or, if one is available, have to take in vital information in such an awkward manner.
I wonder how many people don’t attend the New York Toy Fair because language is a barrier. In the future I plan to pay more attention, speak more slowly, choose my words more carefully and take more time with those who struggle with English.
Amidst all of this I continue to be impressed by the great hospitality showed by the show organizers. The layout is huge but manageable and the staff is extremely helpful and frequently gracious.
More in my next blog.
