The London Toy Fair, organised by the British Toy and Hobby Association, closes its doors today after 250 exhibitors displayed their latest products to visitors. The fair, held at the Olympia Exhibition Centre, London, is the only UK show to be totally dedicated to the world of toys, hobbies and games.

Exhibitors, ranging from the large internationals to the new start-up companies, display thousands of brand new toys, games and hobbies to the UK’s largest gathering of toy industry professionals.

Exhibitors of all sizes show their products and new ideas to a wide range of interested visitors. These range from buyers, inventors, merchandisers, importers, distributors and, of course, the media.

A spokesman for the fair said: “It’s a great place to launch new products, and many of the bigger companies have lavish stands and celebrities to announce the new ranges.

“The event provides visitors with a real overview and insight into a fun, innovative and exciting industry, as well as providing a great networking opportunity and the chance to touch, feel and experiment with the products of the future.”

More than just a showcase of new and innovative products, the fair is also a place where buyers can get to meet industry top executives and discuss their current and future plans, as well as meeting their fellow retailers to exchange news and ideas.

The spokesman remarked that the high-profile nature of the fair made it the perfect opportunity to act as an awards ceremony too – and there is always a lot of interest surrounding the Toy of the Year and Toy Retailer of the Year awards.

The show is celebrating its 58th anniversary. (Sources: PA/ British Toy and Hobby Association)