Nuremberg Hosts the Ultimate Toy Industry Showcase
The Spielwarenmesse is back for its 74th edition, set to captivate the global toy industry from 28 January to 1 February 2025. As the premier B2B event, it continues to attract exhibitors, buyers, and industry leaders from around the world. Held in Nuremberg, this vibrant platform will unveil the latest trends, innovative products, and unique networking opportunities, solidifying its reputation as the industry’s must-attend event.
A Dynamic Platform for the Toy Industry
The Spielwarenmesse is renowned for representing the full spectrum of the global toy market. This year, 2,362 exhibitors from 71 countries will showcase their products and visions in a sprawling exhibition space of 175,000 square metres. Christian Ulrich, Board Spokesperson at Spielwarenmesse eG, emphasises the fair’s renewed focus on enhancing networking opportunities and streamlining its layout. “By creating new structures and adding an extra hall, we’ve developed an even more efficient experience for attendees, fostering crucial industry connections in a relaxed atmosphere,” Ulrich explains.
Enhanced Hall Layout for Efficient Exploration
With 13 product groups across 18 halls, the fair is designed for maximum accessibility. Notable highlights include the debut of Hall 2, dedicated to School Articles, Stationery, and Creative Design, and the use of the architecturally impressive Hall 3C to feature Baby & Infant Articles and Lifestyle Products. Visitors can easily navigate the fair thanks to these restructured layouts, which create synergy between related categories.
Hall 7 brings Model Railways and Model Construction closer to Technical Toys and Educational Toys, while the Sports, Leisure, and Outdoor segment expands into Hall 7A, offering an interactive testing area for ride-ons, roller skates, and sports gear.
Spotlighting Trends and Sustainability
This year, Spielwarenmesse places special emphasis on the emerging “Kidults” market – toys aimed at adults and teenagers aged 12 and above. This demographic, with a market value of €4.5 billion in Europe, continues to drive growth in segments such as collectibles, tabletop games, and creative hobbies.
In addition, the ToyTrends area will focus on two major themes: “Anime & Friends,” highlighting the growing influence of Anime and Manga, and “Healthy Heroes,” promoting movement, mindfulness, and healthy living. Sustainability remains a core focus, with the Toys go Green Special in Hall 3C showcasing eco-friendly innovations.
Networking and Expertise Sharing
Spielwarenmesse continues to lead as a hub for knowledge-sharing, with its Toy Business Forum marking its 20th anniversary. The expanded programme includes presentations on AI, sustainability, and digitalisation, along with interactive sessions like ToyPitch and live podcasts.
The LicenseLounge also returns, serving as a dedicated space for licensors, licensees, and retailers to explore the thriving licensed goods market, valued at $357 billion globally.
Unforgettable Networking Events
The fair is packed with opportunities for meaningful connections. The ToyAward ceremony on 29 January celebrates industry excellence across six categories. Meanwhile, RedNight on 30 January invites attendees to relax and network over drinks and music. The Game Inventors Convention on 31 January provides a unique platform for game creators to present prototypes and network with publishers and content creators.
Conclusion
Spielwarenmesse 2025 is more than just an industry fair – it’s a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and creativity. With a forward-looking approach and an engaging schedule, the event promises to set the tone for the year ahead in the toy world.