By Alice Sanderson — Executive Manager at The Australian Toy Association
Spread across two levels, this year’s Fair brings together a fantastic range of exhibitors showcasing products designed to help your store stand out. From collectibles, plush and sensory products to arts, crafts and everything in between, there’s no shortage of inspiration as you plan for the second half of the year.
Make the most of your visit by exploring every stand and suite. There is genuinely something for every retailer. So don’t forget to head up to Level 3, where our exhibitors welcome all visitors without the need for an appointment. Avoid the lines at the canteen and grab a coffee or a bite from the café on Level 3 which will be open until 4pm and take the opportunity to discover even more great brands and products.
The Sydney Fair runs across 17–18 June and provides ATA members with the opportunity to showcase their products to retailers from across New South Wales (and all other states of course). The event continues to grow year on year, and with approximately 300 visits recorded last year, it was our most successful Sydney Fair to date.
On the first evening of the Fair, the ATA will once again host its popular networking event at Sahra by the River. Open to both members and non-members, it’s a great opportunity to connect with industry colleagues, share ideas and build relationships that extend well beyond the trade fair environment.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the registration desk during the Fair or head to the ATA Toy Fairs section of our website, where you’ll find details under Mid-Year Toy Previews and Networking Functions.
Looking ahead, we’re pleased to confirm the dates for the 2027 Melbourne Toy Fair, which will be held from 28 February to 3 March. While it may seem a long way off, we’re already halfway through 2026 and we all know how quickly the second half of the year disappears.
The Formula 1 Grand Prix is currently scheduled for early April, which should help make flights and accommodation more affordable for those planning their Melbourne Toy Fair visit. ATA members enjoy a substantial discount on exhibition space at the Fair; just one of the many valuable benefits available through ATA membership and participation in our industry events.
Looking ahead, members will also be invited to an exclusive online briefing hosted by Circana. The leading global market research and consumer insights company, Circana is widely recognised as a trusted authority on retail and consumer trends.
This session will provide a comprehensive review of the previous year’s sales performance, along with key market insights, emerging trends, and forecasts for 2026.
Consistently one of our most highly regarded member sessions, this webinar offers invaluable intelligence to help businesses plan, prepare, and capitalise on opportunities in the year ahead.
Following this, in October, the ATA will once again present our much anticipated and popular Hottest Toys for Christmas showcase. Media representatives and young toy enthusiasts alike will be invited to experience firsthand the exciting range of must-have toys and games set to top children’s wish lists this festive season. It’s a unique opportunity for members to have their products on national TV before the busiest buying period for our industry.
If you would like more information on any of the initiatives mentioned above or would like to learn more about the full range of ATA member benefits available, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team.
Wishing everyone a successful Sydney Mid-Year Fair, and a strong and prosperous second half of the year.
This article also appeared in Edition 21 of The Toy Universe Magazine
