It seems Toy Fair has once again been canceled. The event was scheduled for February 19-22, 2022 in it’s usually location at the Javits Center in New York City. Toy Fair is the big “Western Hemisphere” industry convention run by the The Toy Association, where companies showcase their upcoming toys for the new year. There are often a lot of upcoming toys for Disney owned properties that get revealed at this event.
The last in person event was back in 2020 and many were excited for it to return. Now it seems that is not happening.
This statement was released by the The Toy Association President and CEO, Steve Pasierb:
“Key to our efforts these past two weeks has been the balance of some 700 remaining committed toy manufacturers saying they need and want Toy Fair 2022 to build their businesses, weighing that against those departing and seriously on the fence, and needing to provide a sufficient quantity and quality across the retail buying community necessary to deliver a positive experience. As that balance has shifted, we are obligated to make the best decision in everyone’s interest no matter how heartbreaking for so many and potentially damaging some business’ future prospects. The wide range of other events that occur across New York City during Toy Fair week are now also impacted.
Certainly, there are legitimate concerns around the pandemic that has guided thinking. Many are saying they are very comfortable with being at the Javits Center and at the show given strict health and safety protocols in place, while travel concerns and for some, staff absences due to illness at home, rightfully weigh on their minds.
Delivering a best-in-class next Toy Fair for all the varied audiences it serves so well is now our focus. We will be working with all exhibitors on next steps to unwind February 2022 and build a solid base for visitors from across the world to again experience Toy Fair.”
It is unclear if the toy companies will do presentations virtually or via some other method, since the big industry event has been canceled. A lot of companies rely on this event to present to buyers their upcoming products as well as gain interest in the market.
Hopefully we will still see some presentations, because I for one always look forward to it.
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