IMC Toys

Please provide a brief introduction to yourself and the company you work for

Sue Barratt, Country Manager at IMC Toys. I’ve worked in the toy industry for over 35 years, originally as a salesperson for LEGO, several great companies in between, and now with IMC whose growth in the market has been exciting for the last 3 years with a lot more to come!

IMC Toys was founded in 1981 and is the largest 100% Spanish-owned toy company. In

2004 IMC Toys embarked on its International expansion through its subsidiaries and now

has offices in the UK, France, Portugal, Italy, Germany and the US.

What is your favourite part about working in the toy industry?

It has to be the friendships! I have made some fabulous lifelong friends (and met my husband!!)

Give us the inside scoop, what products are you launching at Toy Fair 2023?

IMC Toys are launching some innovative new products within evergreen brands; Bloopies, Cry Babies, Cry Babies Magic Tears, BFF by Cry Babies, and we are also bringing a brand new collectible range to market! We’ll be showcasing our new value range within the Cry Babies Magic Tears collection, as well as the latest extension to the Cry Babies brand which introduces a new offering to infants – if you want to know more then you’ll just have to come see us at Toy Fair!

What trends do you predict for the Toy Fair industry in 2023?

Sustainability and value – these aren’t just fleeting trends either but key developments which are becoming more important in the toy industry day by day, especially given the current economy

How many years have you exhibited at Toy Fair 2023? Any favourite memories?

My first Toy Fair was with Lego in 1989 (I think!) – Earls Court days. There are so many, to have one pick out memory is impossible however if pushed I do remember the year Nicola Bergot and JC Bergot got together. They have been trying to shake me off ever since!!!

What is your favourite toy?

Anything to do with ponies!

What top tip would you give to a fellow exhibitor or visitor attending their first Toy Fair?

Wear comfortable shoes, those concrete floors are brutal!