ASTRA’s Marketplace & Academy, slated June 10-13, is a four day trade show and conference full of educational sessions featuring industry leaders, hands-on production demonstrations, and networking with friends and industry professionals.
The Marketplace & Academy will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.
The annual event sponsored by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association features more than 500 exhibitors and 1,300 independent retailer attendees. More than 100 new, first-time vendors will be on hand.
Features of the Marketplace include a special interactive zone which highlights the magic and excitement of Neighborhood Toy Store Day where visitors will find complimentary planning resources, hands-on product demonstrations, and special offers from vendors.
At the Industry Service Pavilion visitors will find the latest tools, technologies, and resources to streamline their toy retailing businesses. A complimentary business center, charging stations, and WiFi are included.
ASTRA’s New Product Nook is expanded for 2018, offering more new, never-before-seen products out of the box and all in one place to see, touch, and explore.
Keynote speaker for the event is Peter Sheahan, internationally known for his innovative business thinking and thought leadership. His presentation will be provocative, insightful, and packed full of real world examples designed to shift attendees perspective about their role and help them find opportunities in change and disruption.
A long list of well-known speakers/presenters will offer sessions on topics ranging from Play Through the Ages and The Changing Toy Market: Who’s Buying & How to Reach Them to 60 Innovative Marketing Ideas in 60 Minutes and Getting Your Customers to Talk About You.
A panel discussion—Mighty Together: Managing the Bottom Line—is planned, as are a series of OpenSpace sessions to allow attendees to participate in a series of mini-discussions on subjects such as trends, the aging population, in-store events, STEM, and more. More than 30 speakers and presenters are scheduled.
For more information visit www.marketplaceacademy.org .