Spielwarenmesse Brings New Sustainability Category to ToyAward

Sustainability and climate protection are increasingly edging into focus in the toy industry. Demand for toys made from ecological materials or that encourage environmentally friendly behavior is on the rise. In response, Spielwarenmesse is reflecting the topic of sustainability in the ToyAward as well. The team is introducing the new Sustainability category in time for the 72nd edition of their eponymous toy fair (Feb. 2-6).  

Entries for the awards open on Oct. 1. All submissions will be considered by a jury of international experts, which is welcoming some new members this year. The accolades will be presented to the winners at the PressPreview for the first time. 

In the Sustainability category, exhibitors at the Spielwarenmesse can submit innovations that encourage environmentally friendly behavior in children. The category is also open to products that are made from ecological materials, have a sustainable supply chain or have been upcycled or recycled. The Startup category remains unchanged along with the four age-specific categories: 

Exhibitors can enter up to three innovations for the ToyAward on Toyaward.com. The closing date for entries is Dec. 6. Three products in each of the six categories will be nominated for the accolade by the expert jury, which has become more international. Contributing their expertise are the newly recruited members Sue Warfield, president, U.S. association, ASTRA; Jean Youn, head, toy business, Kakaokids (Korea) and Dr. Harald Käb, owner, narocon Innovation Consulting (Germany.) 

The innovations nominated for the ToyAward will be unveiled at the fair’s main press conference on Jan. 27 and publicized in numerous communication campaigns across the industry’s international network. The winners will be announced in the new setting of the PressPreview for the first time. The awards ceremony will represent the climax of the innovation show which will be staged for international media representatives at Nuremberg’s Exhibition Center, NCC Ost on Feb. 1.