Walmart, WIT to Host Joint Event

For a second year, Women In Toys and Walmart are teaming up to hold the WIT–Walmart Women’s Global Economic Empowerment Initiative at New York Toy Fair Tuesday.

Described as  “speed dating meets Shark Tank," the event will feature a panel discussion followed by the opportunity for women-owned businesses of all sizes to pitch their products to Walmart.

The collaboration is part of Walmart’s initiative to source $20 billion from women-owned businesses by 2016.

"Walmart is very excited and committed to our women-owned business initiative," says Anne Marie Kehoe, vice president of toys, Walmart U.S. "We’re working against specific goals in key areas like sourcing and training in order to empower women across its global supply chain. We believe the Women in Toys–Walmart Global Economic Empowerment Program for Women can continue to help us find women-owned companies with products that buyers can come and see during Toy Fair."

At last year's inaugural event, 55 WIT member companies met with 11 Walmart toy buyers in multiple categories resulting in the arrival of several dozen products at Walmart stores and online.

"We are extremely pleased with the outcome and the successful placement of many products from entrepreneurs that pitched to 11 Walmart buyers last year,” says Joan Luks, president, WIT. “We expect to expand both the reach and categories this year to make it even more meaningful to all the participants.”

The event, which will be held on Tuesday, will kick off with the panel discussion "What You Need to Know: Top Five Tips for Pitching Walmart" featuring Raquel Taylor and Kelly Deimel, whose Bobo Buddy plush pacifier was picked up for 1,600 Walmart stores at the 2013 event.

For more information and to sign up go to WomeninToys.com.