Spielwarenmesse 2025: A Dynamic Global Toy Fair Energizing Market Trends
The Spielwarenmesse, known as the world's premier toy fair, took place in Nuremberg from January 28 to February 1, 2025, marking its 74th edition. This year, the event exceeded expectations, featuring 2,362 exhibitors from 71 countries showcasing the latest innovations and trends in the toy industry. With a significantly expanded exhibition area and newly introduced networking formats, around 57,500 visitors from 126 countries navigated through a vibrant array of products, reflecting the fair's increasing influence and accessibility.
Daniel Levy, CEO of Buki France, exemplified the sentiment shared by many exhibitors, noting that the Spielwarenmesse remains an essential event for the industry. Approximately 97% of those showcasing at the event deemed their participation as important or very important for their business objectives. Exhibitors like Alison Coates from Just Play reported lively interactions and sustained interest at their booths throughout the event, indicative of heightened visitor engagement.
This year saw increased attendance from major European markets, with significant representation from the USA and China among the top countries visiting the fair. Thomas Eichhorn, managing director at MAG Zapf Creation in Germany, highlighted the growing international relevance of the event, stating that leading American retailers, including Target and Walmart, engaged actively with their team. Bhavesh Somaya from Hasbro revealed that the Spielwarenmesse serves as an exciting kickoff for their global event calendar, while Mattel leveraged the platform to launch major global initiatives.
Feedback from exhibitors demonstrated satisfaction not only with the event's professionalism but also with its enhanced networking opportunities. Christian Ulrich of the Spielwarenmesse eG noted measurable progress in the quality of service and the content presented. The introduction of Pavilion 3C, encompassing baby and toddler products alongside lifestyle items, fostered effective navigation and synergy among exhibitors.
New formats like the Toy Business Forum, featuring engaging discussions with CEOs, and the ToyPitch, where exhibitors presented their innovations in three-minute segments, were well received. The prestigious ToyAward ceremony also took place live, spotlighting various product categories and celebrating new entrants like Qubs, a small Swiss company that gained significant visibility.
The fair not only catered to children but also identified trends for 'Kidults', featuring products tailored for adult consumers with disposable income, presented engagingly at the entrance to the fair. Events like the RedNight, where approximately 100 exhibitors transformed their booths into networking hubs, cultivated a friendly atmosphere akin to a family reunion as many exhibitors remarked.
With a remarkable 96% of attendees recommending participation in future fairs, anticipation builds for the upcoming 75th anniversary edition of the Spielwarenmesse, scheduled from January 27 to 31, 2026. This event continues to be a crucial platform for networking, trendsetting, and engaging with the future of the toy industry. The Spielwarenmesse transcends a mere trade show; it embodies a global celebration of innovation and collaboration, ensuring that it remains a must-attend for industry leaders and newcomers alike.