Figures.com is covering the Fall Mass Market Toy Expo in New York.

The Fall Mass Market Toy Expo 2003 is an event where toy companies showcase next years product to potential buyers. Some of the new collectible projects shown are already green lighted; the Expo is simply an opportunity for the company and buyer to iron out the fine details in person: distribution, retailer space, prices, etc.

On the other hand, many new toys displayed are still in need of a buyer. They are concepts that the toy company would like to pursue, but will not without backing- those key ingredients: money and distribution. If nobody is interested, then there is little point in continuing.

What’s this show mean to the collector? In essence, it’s Pre-Toy Fair, an early sneak peek at the main event come February 2004: The International Toy Fair. There will be instances where toy photography is not permitted due to a company ironing out final details, licensing arrangements (read movie spoilers: “LOTR: Return of the King” for example), or even because of a companys desire to keep it a surprise for a later date. Some projects will be mentioned in our articles as POTENTIAL, meaning that it is safe to announce, though no buyer as been firmly locked into place.

Check out the Mass Market Toy Expo galleries!

Posted by Jess Horsley on October 22, 2003 04:17 AM