In This Issue

Finding the Right Balance in Your Store and Inventory

By Julie L. Jones
April 2009

The trade show circuit continued into March, and TDmonthly Magazine hit the Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., to capture dozens of new toys on video at the Western States Toy & Hobby Show. What else is new? ToyDirectory's all-a-Twitter! Follow us for tweets on the latest news, best sellers and answers to toy industry questions. Then, read on for more about this issue.

TWIRLING INTO BUSINESS

If you’ve wondered how to make your business more than just a classic toy store, see this month’s Retailer Spotlight to find out how Molly McMullin and a group of fellow moms have energized a small community with fantasy filled décor, an outdoor playground, and frequent activities and events in their magical toy space.

BALANCING ALL THOSE BIKES

You’ve seen the recent flood of them at exhibitions, or at least heard about the trend for the preschool market that keeps rolling along with new launches. But how do you decide which training bikes to carry in your store? In an article dedicated to the breadth of balance bikes out there, see straightforward comparisons of the different brands on the market — in terms of size, price, design, and special features — and find out which models specialty retailers prefer for their stores, and why.

STAFF PICKS

Save time on browsing by checking out some of the hottest specialty products in our Staff Picks. Here’s a preview:

Little Kid Furry Backpack by BEATRIX NEW YORK

Little Kid Furry Backpack by BEATRIX NEW YORK Featuring forest characters and available in three designs (Jean-Pierre, shown; Droolie; and Fei-Fei), this backpack has faux-fur straps and sides, plus one interior pocket. It measures 9" x 12" x 5.5". 3/4/2009 (MSRP: $48.00; Age: 2 to 5)

Doodles™ by DOODLETOWN TOYS

Doodles™ by DOODLETOWN TOYS Doodles™ are small wooden starter toys that are designed based on the vehicles as a child would imagine them. There are 8 models available including a plane, copter, tractor, pickup, road grader, bulldozer, car and a train engine. All moving parts are glued and pressure fit for durability and child safety. 2/24/2009 (Age: 1 and Up)

Brown Horse Bookend by STREAMLINE INC.

Brown Horse Bookend by STREAMLINE INC. This handmade bookend features a faux leather exterior and is heavily weighted with a filling of natural cotton and iron filings. It measures about 8" x 10" and comes in a non-woven drawstring bag. 3/4/2009 (MSRP: $40.00)