The quantity of young kids under the age of 14 and babies, toddler and preschool children in China is over 300,000,000, accounting for 25% of the whole population. Among them 80,000,000 live in the city, which form a great number of toy consumption. Especially in recent years, parents identify with the concept that toys can enlighten children on their intelligence, moreover, majority of modern families in China only have one child, parents are willing to spend money on their child.

In recent years, it has appeared some features and special trends for toy sales in the mainland of China:

1. RC Toys

Appeared with high technology, for instance, electronic toys that can sound or shine, rc toys and interactive toys that can speak or perform a series of actions are salable goods. Presently, various rc toys on sale in the market reach about 1 hundred kinds, mainly are variety of rc toys (remote control toys) and hobby items, such as rc car, rc helicopter, nitro rc car, rc gas boat, remote control helicopter, remote control car etc., each rc car(remote control car) costs about 20-65 dollars?rc gas boat(remote control gas boat) is about 20-50 dollars?and the price of rc helicopter differs between 450 – 2,000 dollars.

2. Model Toys

Electric model toys attract both children and adults, such as tank cars, cars installed with alarm whistle and so on. Though these toys are not cheap in price, especially the electric toys, commonly between 8-10 dollars, some even as high as 80-100 dollars, but they have a strong footing in the market.

3. Adult Toys

Besides the children toys, adult toys in mainland of China are also have large market. According to the latest investigation of China Social Investigation Office, 33% of adults think they are fond of toys and would like to buy them. It is investigated that except for traditional Chinese Chess, I-go and kite, adults prefer rc toys (remote control toys) and hobby items, such as rc car, rc helicopter, nitro rc car, rc gas boat, remote control helicopter, remote control car etc. The last research of China Toys Association shows the acceptable toy price for most consumers in the large and medium sized cities is no more than 15 dollars. However, in some large cities and some medium sized cities, some ingenious and top graded toys reaching up 150 dollars and even 1200 dollars still have their market. It takes an average of about 5% of the whole year consumption for Chinese citizens to buy toys, and with the toy development of top grade, brightness and series, in particular, rc toys (remote control toys) and hobby items, such as rc car, rc helicopter, nitro rc car, rc gas boat, remote control helicopter, remote control car etc., the toy consumption will be in the status of advancing.

4. Plastic Toys

Plastic has taken the place of metal, wood and have become the main material for toys making, because it costs low, easily deals with, safer and light.

Although according to the official statistic, the toy sales in mainland of China are no more than 2,000,000,000 dollars in 2006, it is estimated by people in this industry that the actual market demands should be 9,000,000,000 dollars. People in this industry believe that the forecast demands of Chinese toy market will increase at a rate of 40% per year in the following years, and the consumption of Chinese toy market will hopefully exceed 13,000,000,000 dollars.

An Overview for the Sales Market of Toys in China is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Toys are important items in the homes of anyone who has children. Toys keep youngsters occupied, interested, and help them to learn as well. However, it can sometimes be stressful to figure out which toys to buy, and finding them at various stores can also be frustrating. Therefore, toy shopping online can offer you great choices as well as excellent conveniences, which will allow you to make sure that you provide yourself with those wonderful toys!

There is a lot to be said about toy shopping online. First of all, you can look at pictures of the toys to get a good idea of the types of things that are offered. Also, you can get a good idea of the specifications of the toys, just by looking at them. You can provide yourself with a lot of information about the toys, just by seeking them out on the internet. The best deals, prices, and information can be found online – so you can make a great choice regarding the toys that you are going to be finding.

Also, there are plenty of different types of toys that you can find while toy shopping online. With so many different types of toys to choose from, it is no longer hard to find just what you are looking for – and have them delivered to your front door.

Activity Toys

There are plenty of great activity toys that you can find online. Activity toys are the toys that keep children entertained and keep them moving and active. There are plenty of them to choose from, and with the right activity toys, you can make any child happy. Toys like Legos and other building materials help a child to develop that great creativity that is often used later in life. Toys like farm play sets, cars, and cooking play sets help children to develop interests, and allow children to continue to build up their creativity. Outdoor activity toys are toys that kids can use outdoors – in the winter or the summer – toys that provide them with skills or creative play as well.

Learning Toys

Learning toys are another category of toys that can be found online – and these can be great ways for kids to enjoy learning. With toys like books and word and letter blocks, kids can learn about the various letters and how to make words. Other toys, like erector sets, can be great activities, but can also help a child to reason and learn how to do mechanical functions with the toys they use. From learning toys, kids can learn more about the world around them. There are toys that enhance reading and math skills, and toys that enhance science and biology learning. Even regular toys, like toy cars or dolls, can be learning toys as well because they have been developed to teach some sort of skill to the children as they play.

Toddler Toys

For each age group, toys are very important. The most important thing about choosing toys for different age groups is that you need to be sure that you are providing children with toys that are developmentally appropriate. With toys like kitchen sets, dolls, and toy cars, careful attention must be paid to the age that is appropriate. For toddlers, dolls and cars as well as kitchen sets need to be monitored. Those that are made for toddlers are made without the small parts that a child could choke on, and they are made with the bigger pieces that can be more easily moved and grasped by younger children. Toddler toys are also often brightly colored, and are often learning toys as well – with giant letters and numbers. Many times, toddler toys make noises or have music. The best toddler toys are going to encourage brain development by having lots of different stimulation and lots of fun things to think about and learn.

No matter what type of toys you are looking for, one of the best things that you can do is help to provide yourself with an easy and affordable way to buy them. Buying toys online can do both of these things for you.

Toy Shopping Online Offers Great Choices is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Video game cheat codes are designed to give gamers an added advantage in particular video games, which enables them to give their video game character infinite health, special abilities, or other necessary advantages that helps them to advance to the next level.

Video games used with any video game system on the market today have certain cheat codes that enable gamers to get through seemingly impossible areas in video games. Gamers are given special ability when using cheat codes that make walking through walls capable and many other fantastic functions as well. Many cheat codes allows gamers to finish difficult levels in particular video games, which be found in a variety of video game publications and through several web sites.

When getting stuck in particular areas of video games, gamers will search a variety of web sites to find the cheat codes that they are looking for to complete the most difficult video games. Of course, on several of these web sites cheat codes are submitted by other fellow gamers that have either figured a cheat code out on their own or have found the cheat code on another gaming web site. Normally, gamers can find these cheat codes listed by the different video gaming system used and then by the type of video game, which makes looking for the cheat code desired much more convenient for gamers. Another added convenience for gamers is that when these cheat codes are released they have been tested for their accuracy and ability.

Each cheat code will give gamers access to a variety of different hidden abilities or tips to assist the gamer through particular stages of a video game. Many gamers only use cheat codes to enable them to pass difficult stages within a video game and other gamers will use cheat codes throughout the entire video game. Being stuck on a particular level in a video game can be extremely frustrating for even the advanced gamer. When a video gamer uses cheat codes regularly they will often write them on either index cards or some sort of tablet for the easiest access possible, which keeps the gamer from constantly having to look particular cheat codes up.

Cheat codes for video games are enter into the video game system by using a set sequence using the pads on a gamers controller, joystick, keyboard, or steering wheel. The majority of cheat codes are created by video game developers and beta game testers for the sole purpose of testing out specific aspects and functions of a video game. Once a video game has been tested for its accuracy and gaming performance, then these video games are often disregarded and left behind forgotten.

There are very few avid video gamers that do not know what a cheat code is or has never used a cheat code while playing video games. Cheat codes are terrific for any video gamer that desires to add a little zing to video games in which they have already defeated. Cheat codes allow video gamers the ability to unlock hidden items or with video games involving sports often times hidden teams within the video game itself. Some times cheat codes will allow the difficulty of video games to become harder so that video gamers will become much more interesting for the more advanced gamer.

Benefits Of Cheat Codes Used With Video Games is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Toys are not only for kids. Adults need the relaxation and the memories beloved toys can bring back to their memories. I still have in my room the Rubik’s Cube which I managed only once to solve and numerous times I thought of taking off its colored rectangular stickers and placing each color on every side. I never actually did it because I was afraid of the consequences if I destroyed my fathers favorite toy. When I understood that solving the cube requires some planning and problem-solving skills, I was determined to succeed and I still remember the joyful screaming when I managed to “solve” its mystery; probably by accident. Since then, I have been catching myself thinking of my favorite old toys, like Lego and Playmobil, not very girly I know, and recapturing the times I was playing in our then common room with my brother.

Toys are used in play by children, adults and pets. The difference a toy has from a game is that toy play does not have clearly defined goals; that is if you do not play with my brother. Today, huge toy chains, like “Toy-R-Us,” carry a vast assortment of different toys for any age and background, covering the needs of children and parents. But while parents spend a small fortune on acquiring the latest model of their son’s favorite car toy, the young boy will continue to play with the old one and although he will at the beginning be extremely happy with his new possession, the old car that misses a wheel and a door will never leave its bed.

The explanation for this type of behavior is rather simple. In fact, if you try to recall your favorite toy while you were a kid, you will probably remember that its prime time had long passed, but you continued holding it in your arms as you fell asleep. Some people state that their favorite ‘toy’ was not even a regular purchased toy. Any item in the house that a kid for some reason will pick up, toss in the air or play around with can become a toy. As long as children’s imagination is at work, even a rubber band or a pillow can become a toy with which a child will feel a close connection.

Finally, today’s commercialization has introduced another type of toys that are not intended as play toys, but rather as collector items for adults. People around the globe collect these type of toys and constitute a niche (specific target) market audience for manufacturers. But whether you are currently a collector or not, remembering your old toys and the enthusiasm with which you played with them can only bring a smile to your face which will last as long as your happy memory.

Toys are not only for kids. Adults need the relaxation and the memories beloved toys can bring back to their memories. I still have in my room the Rubik’s Cube which I managed only once to solve and numerous times I thought of taking off its colored rectangular stickers and placing each color on every side. I never actually did it because I was afraid of the consequences if I destroyed my fathers favorite toy. When I understood that solving the cube requires some planning and problem-solving skills, I was determined to succeed and I still remember the joyful screaming when I managed to “solve” its mystery; probably by accident. Since then, I have been catching myself thinking of my favorite old toys, like Lego and Playmobil, not very girly I know, and recapturing the times I was playing in our then common room with my brother.

Toys are used in play by children, adults and pets. The difference a toy has from a game is that toy play does not have clearly defined goals; that is if you do not play with my brother. Today, huge toy chains, like “Toy-R-Us,” carry a vast assortment of different toys for any age and background, covering the needs of children and parents. But while parents spend a small fortune on acquiring the latest model of their son’s favorite car toy, the young boy will continue to play with the old one and although he will at the beginning be extremely happy with his new possession, the old car that misses a wheel and a door will never leave its bed.

The explanation for this type of behavior is rather simple. In fact, if you try to recall your favorite toy while you were a kid, you will probably remember that its prime time had long passed, but you continued holding it in your arms as you fell asleep. Some people state that their favorite ‘toy’ was not even a regular purchased toy. Any item in the house that a kid for some reason will pick up, toss in the air or play around with can become a toy. As long as children’s imagination is at work, even a rubber band or a pillow can become a toy with which a child will feel a close connection.

Finally, today’s commercialization has introduced another type of toys that are not intended as play toys, but rather as collector items for adults. People around the globe collect these type of toys and constitute a niche (specific target) market audience for manufacturers. But whether you are currently a collector or not, remembering your old toys and the enthusiasm with which you played with them can only bring a smile to your face which will last as long as your happy memory.

Toys are not only for kids. Adults need the relaxation and the memories beloved toys can bring back to their memories. I still have in my room the Rubik’s Cube which I managed only once to solve and numerous times I thought of taking off its colored rectangular stickers and placing each color on every side. I never actually did it because I was afraid of the consequences if I destroyed my fathers favorite toy. When I understood that solving the cube requires some planning and problem-solving skills, I was determined to succeed and I still remember the joyful screaming when I managed to “solve” its mystery; probably by accident. Since then, I have been catching myself thinking of my favorite old toys, like Lego and Playmobil, not very girly I know, and recapturing the times I was playing in our then common room with my brother.

Toys are used in play by children, adults and pets. The difference a toy has from a game is that toy play does not have clearly defined goals; that is if you do not play with my brother. Today, huge toy chains, like “Toy-R-Us,” carry a vast assortment of different toys for any age and background, covering the needs of children and parents. But while parents spend a small fortune on acquiring the latest model of their son’s favorite car toy, the young boy will continue to play with the old one and although he will at the beginning be extremely happy with his new possession, the old car that misses a wheel and a door will never leave its bed.

The explanation for this type of behavior is rather simple. In fact, if you try to recall your favorite toy while you were a kid, you will probably remember that its prime time had long passed, but you continued holding it in your arms as you fell asleep. Some people state that their favorite ‘toy’ was not even a regular purchased toy. Any item in the house that a kid for some reason will pick up, toss in the air or play around with can become a toy. As long as children’s imagination is at work, even a rubber band or a pillow can become a toy with which a child will feel a close connection.

Finally, today’s commercialization has introduced another type of toys that are not intended as play toys, but rather as collector items for adults. People around the globe collect these type of toys and constitute a niche (specific target) market audience for manufacturers. But whether you are currently a collector or not, remembering your old toys and the enthusiasm with which you played with them can only bring a smile to your face which will last as long as your happy memory.

Toys are not only for kids. Adults need the relaxation and the memories beloved toys can bring back to their memories. I still have in my room the Rubik’s Cube which I managed only once to solve and numerous times I thought of taking off its colored rectangular stickers and placing each color on every side. I never actually did it because I was afraid of the consequences if I destroyed my fathers favorite toy. When I understood that solving the cube requires some planning and problem-solving skills, I was determined to succeed and I still remember the joyful screaming when I managed to “solve” its mystery; probably by accident. Since then, I have been catching myself thinking of my favorite old toys, like Lego and Playmobil, not very girly I know, and recapturing the times I was playing in our then common room with my brother.

Toys are used in play by children, adults and pets. The difference a toy has from a game is that toy play does not have clearly defined goals; that is if you do not play with my brother. Today, huge toy chains, like “Toy-R-Us,” carry a vast assortment of different toys for any age and background, covering the needs of children and parents. But while parents spend a small fortune on acquiring the latest model of their son’s favorite car toy, the young boy will continue to play with the old one and although he will at the beginning be extremely happy with his new possession, the old car that misses a wheel and a door will never leave its bed.

The explanation for this type of behavior is rather simple. In fact, if you try to recall your favorite toy while you were a kid, you will probably remember that its prime time had long passed, but you continued holding it in your arms as you fell asleep. Some people state that their favorite ‘toy’ was not even a regular purchased toy. Any item in the house that a kid for some reason will pick up, toss in the air or play around with can become a toy. As long as children’s imagination is at work, even a rubber band or a pillow can become a toy with which a child will feel a close connection.

Finally, today’s commercialization has introduced another type of toys that are not intended as play toys, but rather as collector items for adults. People around the globe collect these type of toys and constitute a niche (specific target) market audience for manufacturers. But whether you are currently a collector or not, remembering your old toys and the enthusiasm with which you played with them can only bring a smile to your face which will last as long as your happy memory.

Toys For All is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Dear Consumer,

As you search for the perfect toy to give to the little ones in your life this holiday season, you may be confused and even scared about some of the recent media attention on toy recalls and overseas manufacturing of toys, in general.

Some parents have even decided to look for other gift alternatives instead of buying toys. But is this really wise? Toys are intended not only to be a form of entertainment for children, but also a beneficial and vital part of their development. They provide a wonderful source of learning and entertainment for kids of all ages. Playing with creative toys enhances motor skills and provides a constructive way to release energy. By selecting quality toys from a company that researches their manufacturers thoroughly and regularly, you are giving a child an amazing way to foster creativity and stimulate intellectual development.

With this extreme attention on toy safety and product recalls in recent months, particularly on toys imported from China, it is crucial that consumers be informed and not misled. While it is true that over 80 percent of the toys sold in this country are imported from Chinese manufacturing plants, countries don’t make toys — companies do. It’s important to not view all toy companies as a singular entity.

It is a fact that big name toy companies like Mattel have had some products recalled due to safety issues, but it is imperative to set the record straight. Most toy recalls are due to design issues – such as small parts that come off and present a choking hazard and not for the use of unsafe materials. These design-types of recall issues have nothing to do with Chinese manufacturers and are, in fact, not a manufacturing issue at all.

Small toy companies are concerned about recall fears being attributed to all companies, instead of the specific companies affected. There are thousands of toy companies in the U.S., yet the weight of attention to recalls among the large toy companies such as Mattel and Hasbro bears heavy on small toy companies. A small toy company in Madison, WI had this to say on their blog regarding the Mattel toy recall:

“The Mattel recall is bad for the entire toy industry… Mattel’s failure to effectively oversee their suppliers darkens the public perception of all Chinese manufacturers. It’s unfortunate this negative perception extends to companies that actually enforce rigorous quality standards, factories whose products consistently pass safety and lead tests…”

American consumers should be aware that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) is also working very hard to ensure the safety of toys and other products imported from China. An International Consumer Product Safety Program known as the 2007 China Program Plan has been implemented. Responding to the problem of product recalls from China, the CPSC states, in part:

The Commission is exploring a variety of means to reduce the number of consumer products imported to the U.S. that pose a substantial product hazard, that violate mandatory product safety standards or that otherwise pose an unreasonable risk to American consumers. These efforts have included the creation of a new Office of International Programs; the development of the China Program; participating in product safety seminars; direct notification to manufacturers and to General Administration for Quality Supervision Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) when a Chinese manufactured consumer product recall occurs; and stepped-up port and market surveillance to help keep defective or violative products out of the hands of consumers.

It is important to understand the impact of applicable U.S. standards, including ASTM-F963, which “relates to possible hazards that may not be recognized readily by the public and that may be encountered in the normal use for which a toy is intended or after reasonably foreseeable abuse. The standard covers requirements and contains test methods for toys intended for use by children under 14 years of age.” These standards are put in place as a voluntary way for the toy industry to police itself and protect the public.

A second way that the CPSC works with toy companies to provide safety information to consumers is with package labeling. Parents and others can help safeguard the children they are buying toys for by reading the labels and following the recommendations and warnings. Many issues in toy safety are directly related to consumer choices to purchase toys not intended for a particular age group. Most toys are given an age rating and a warning if there are specific reasons, such as small parts, if there are inappropriate for young children.

Recall information that is presented to the media and the public fails to properly identify problems related to age-appropriate products for children. There is a combined responsibility of toy companies, manufacturers, government, and parents/consumers to screen age appropriate toys based upon the development of a child. While it is easy to choose a learning game or an intellectually stimulating toy for a particularly mature child, it is important to remember that the behaviors and instincts of small children that can lead to some safety issues with some toys and that the guidelines are put in place with that consideration in mind.

There is a deep concern for children and safety issues in the toy industry, and it is a very real issue that is addressed by most toy companies. The standards that are set by the toy industry have not changed despite the recent media uproar. These standards are high and, when adhered to, are more than sufficient to keep toys safe.

At my toy company, History in Action Toys, I have taken great care in the design of our action figures to ensure that our toys are safe for the children who play with and love them. It is important to me that they provide a real opportunity for social interaction and educational benefits, but safety is my number one priority when designing and producing our toys. We currently market three action figure toys that each depict a leader from American history. We have had our toys independently tested by a third party to determine if they meet the safety standards set forth in CSMC’s ASTM F963.

THIS toy company does not ignore safety issues. I care deeply about children and would never have gone into this business or developed toys for them if this were not true. I worked hard to select a top-notch manufacturer in China, based upon their history, the clients they work with and their capabilities to produce a safe, quality product. I personally visited the manufacturing plant in China that I chose to produce my products, both to ensure quality control and to get to know the people I am working with. I consider this both a responsibility and a privilege and I have spent a great deal of time and money to guarantee that our products are and continue to be safe. Even though the manufacturer I chose was not the least expensive proposal that I received, when it came down to a choice between knowing I was producing a safe, quality toy and saving some money, safety and quality won hands down.

I have employed Bureau Veritas, an independent agency that works with companies worldwide to provide independent testing, inspection, auditing and certification to help ensure they meet and exceed all standards of safety. This independent testing agency determined that my toys met the ASTM-F963 standard. I am pleased with the positive results I have obtained regarding the safety of the toys I produce.

Don’t paint all toy companies with the same brush. While some companies have been hit hard with recalls, many more companies are in the same category as mine, having never had an unsafe toy on the market.

You can buy toys for your children this Christmas, made in the U.S. or in China with confidence and safety. Research the companies you are buying from to determine their safety history and their reputation for addressing and eliminating problems and concerns.

It is important to remember that most manufacturers, in the U.S. and in China, produce safe, quality toys that meet or exceed safety standards and that the number of recalled products is an extremely small percentage of the total amount of toys on the market today.

Check recall lists such as the one that is provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (http://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx). You can sign up for e-mail notification of all product recalls. You can also find great information about toy safety at the Toy Industry Association’s Web site, www.toyinfo.org. It provides recall lists, facts on toys, buying tips and more. It also addresses the issue of buying toys manufactured in China in the “Frequently Asked Questions” section of their website with the following response:

Q: Should I avoid any toys made in China? Won’t that be safer for me?

A: All toys sold in America regardless of where they are made must conform to tough U.S. safety standards – standards that have served as models for other industries and countries around the world.

Since it is companies, not countries, that make toys, it is companies that are responsible for adhering to rigorous safety standards and conducting inspections throughout the process. Random on-site and off-site testing occurs in all manufacturing plants, in China and elsewhere. Toys are also randomly inspected before export to the US.

In light of the recent recalls, there has been additional testing and vigilance by toy manufacturers, retailers and importers.”

I encourage consumers to review and follow helpful toy shopping tips listed below:

• Carefully read the label and choose toys that bear the ASTM F963 label (Products with this label have gone through a full array of tests and design specifications to reduce or eliminate potential harm caused by the toys’ makeup or use.)

• Look for recommendations of appropriate age ranges and warnings of small parts or other hazards

o Consider whether there are younger children in the home and whether they can be harmed with the toy

o Consider whether the recipient is likely to use the toy in a manner other than the toy’s intended use

• Diligently research any concerns with a particular toy company

o Check the recall lists at the CPSC’s Web site: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx

Buying a toy doesn’t have to be a frightening venture. You can buy toys for your children this holiday season and be confident of their safety and quality. Remember, the safety of our children is a joint venture between toy companies and consumers. We can all do our part to ensure children can reap all the benefits quality toys have to offer without being in harm’s way.

As I am a strong believer in my toy company, I am more than happy to speak to consumers and media to help address and alleviate concerns regarding the safety and quality of History In Action Toys.

Kind regards,

Sterling Ashby

Founder, History In Action Toys

(202) 487-8376

sashby@hiatoys.com

How you Can Choose Safe Toys This Holiday Season? is a post from: Fasemex Toys

All toy companies are eager to grow sales in a stagnant $22 billion market, they want to know which toys are “hot” for the year. Invariably, the toy trends for the year are strongly influenced by movies being released that year. This year, there are some awesome icons vying for our attention – Indiana Jones, the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man and Batman. Aside from these superheroes, the hot toy trends for 2008 also include dinosaurs, robots, musical toys and of course, web connected toys!

Aside from these, “Electronics and the Internet. That’s what kids are obsessed about today,” said Jim Silver, editor and co-publisher of Toy Wishes magazine. “They have an iPod, they are on Facebook and some are e-mailing by age five.”

1. Web Connected Toys

IToysWe all know and love Webkinz, the pioneer of the “virtual toy” revolution. Webkinz is still doing very well and now has been joined by several other toy manufacturers. Russ’s Shining Stars, TY Girlz, Barbie and now even TY’s Beanie Babies. Aside from dolls and plush toys, there’s a brand new preschool game which nicely incorporates play and technology. It’s called Me2 from IToys. Also worth noting is Clickables, a wonderful line of toys from Technosource. Clickables integrates the virtual world of Disney Fairies with toys for girls. There are a lot of other web connected toys and dolls. My collegue, the Doll Collecting guide, has a great article up on the virtual doll trend.

2. Dinosaur Toys
Dinosaurs have been around for a while now, (remember the very recent Pleo?), but they certainly made their presence felt at the Toy Fair! Here is one dinosaur which was hard to miss – Kota the Triceratops from Playskool. This friendly creature is pretty tall at approximately 40 feet and is equipped with sensors, which when activated, make him move his head, tail and horns. Kids will enjoy sitting on this playful (and very pricey) creature. Another dino in the spotlight comes to use from Mattel. D-Rex, a remote controlled dinosaur with a lot of different sounds and realistic motions aims to fascinate kids this year.

3. Indiana Jones Toys

HasbroIndiana Jones is really something to look forward to this year. The movie Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is slated to be one of the hot movies of 2008. It’s no wonder then, that Lego, Hasbro and the rest have jumped onto Indy’s bandwagon! The plot of the movie isn’t yet revealed fully. Still, Lego had some wonderful sets based on Indiana Jones. The Indiana Jones LEGO sets include Indiana Jones Temple Escape, Indiana Jones Race for the Stolen Treasure, Indiana Jones and the Lost Tomb and Indiana Jones Motorcycle Chase. Some of Hasbro’s Indiana Jones offerings include Mr Potato Head: Taters of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones Sound FX Whip and of course Indiana Jones action figures.

4. Science and Nature Related Toys

Jakks PacificI noticed a large variety of Science Kits and nature themed toys at this year’s Toy Fair. Elmers (the glue company) had some really cool science kits represented by Bill Nye, the science guy. Scientific Explorer had a lot of fun kits to offer where kids can experiment with fascinating stuff like bubbles, perfumes, volcanoes and more. The biggie in the science category is none other than EyeClops from Jakks Pacific, which has updated versions(read night vision and higher magnification) available. Also, Uncle Milton of the Ant Farm fame had some cool Indiana Jones based products to show.

5. Batman – The Dark Knight Toys

MattelThe new Batman movie, The Dark Knight is slated to be released later this year. Mattel has a host of Batman related toys and action figures up their sleeve. The Stealth Batmobile and the Wayne Tech Tri Fire Blaster are must haves. Apart from those two, there are a lot of pretend play options and Batman action figures from Mattel. Lego also has some great Batman themed construction sets for release this year.

6. Speed Racer Toys

MattelSpeed Racer is another big movie franchise on which Mattel has a great lineup of toys. I know that Hot Wheels has a Morph Mach 6 vehicle and an interactive helmet to offer as well as the Speed Racer Sky Jump Track Set among other toy vehicles. The movie should spark off a craze for racing and toy cars which is going to be huge. Lego also had some great Speed Racer kits on display at Toy Fair. Personally, I think this is THE franchise to watch out for.

7. Animated Toys/Robots

Fisher-PriceOk, so by now everyone must have heard of Elmo Live, right? Well, the animated toy trend seems to be very prevalent this year with Elmo Live, Hasbro’s Biscuit, Playskool’s Kota the Triceratops, Tomy’s ISobot and more. While I’m on the topic, let me mention that I just previewed an adorable duckling from Hasbro’s Furreal Friends line – it’s too cute for words. Just like me, it seems like everyone enjoys seeing animated animals nowadays!

8. Iron Man Toys

HasbroHasbro has a fantastic line of action figures based on the Iron Man. This is another movie franchise for this year which is going to be popular with Marvel fans.

9. Green Toys

It’s no wonder that everyone is focusing on healthy and safe play this year. The “green” theme is predominant with many toy firms promoting their eco-friendly products. One toy manufacturer which I really liked was Plan toys from Indonesia which had a wonderful lineup of natural wooden toys. There were some toys made out of recycled milk bottles from a company called Green Toys. They had tea sets, gardening sets and beach sand sets on display which looked very appealing. I also noticed the Kapla line of wooden construction planks which falls into the “green” category as well. 12. Classic Toys – Lots of Anniversaries!

10. The Incredible Hulk Toys

HasbroThe Hulk was at a lot of places at Toy Fair 2008. I specially loved the Kid Designs line of Hulk laptops and learning toys. Hasbro has a fantastic lineup of Hulk toys including the much awaited Hulk Smash Hands, a plush animated Hulk toy, conventional Hulk action figures, a Hulk power glow electronic mask, a Hulk dart blaster and much more. Looks like “green” is popular in more ways than one!

11. Musical Toys

KID Designs For the last couple of years, toys based on musical instruments have really grown in popularity. Remember Piano Wizard, Piano Made Easy, I Can Play Guitar, Guitar Hero and the other toys on similar lines? This, along with musical toys based on celebrities like Hannah Montana and hit TV shows like American Idol practically dominated the musical toy scene. This year, the trend continues with some more Hannah Montana toys, new DVD games based on American Idol (KIDDesigns has an awesome American Idol DVD game) and much more. Stay tuned. (pun not intended)

12. Keyboard for toddlers, Wallcrawler Spiderman

The portable DVD player is made to withstand a kid’s abuse. It features a 3.2-inch color TFT screen, rechargeable batteries with a two-hour lifespan, an anti-skip buffer, grip handles and a stand for hands-free viewing. The player, which plays DVDs and CDs, comes with a battery charger and wall power unit, a video output jack, and a headphone jack.

13. Wall Crawler Spider-Man

“Wall Crawler Spider-Man” is a standout innovation from Hasbro. The remote-controlled Spider-Man toy, which incorporates vacuum-pump technology, actually crawls ups and down walls.

Last, but not the least, classic toys are very much in the forefront. This year, many classics were celebrating their anniversaries. Hasbro’s My Little Pony celebrated their 25th anniversary with a lovely birthday party at the Hasbro showroom, complete with a cake cutting! Cabbage Patch Kids celebrates it’s 25th anniversary as well. The LEGO brick celebrates its 50th anniversary with a commemorative gold brick. Other brands celebrating this year include Scholastic’s Clifford, the big red dog, the Toy Company’s Wham-O and Mary Meyer (who is turning 75 this year). We’ll wind up with congratulating Hasbro’s Mr Potato Head who is turning 80 this year. Way to go!

2008 Hot Toy New Trends is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Have you ever thought to yourself what makes a good video game? Strong visuals and good controls are essential as well as well crafted concepts. Great video games have feeling, surprise, emotion, interaction, and even addiction and the final votes are for the year are in.

When video games offer all these elements gamers know the sure enjoyment of being able to turn on their video gaming system and instantly becoming involved in one of the best video games on the market. Great video games can cause gamers to want to stay up all night no matter if they have to go to school or work the next morning. Being able to play a great video game forces gamers to experience a new way to push your reflexes and brain harder and faster. Great video games allow gamers to become a galactic warrior, fight aliens, villains, undersea explorers, or even be the hero.

Video games from last year have been voted on and the results for best video game of the year are in. The video games that has been voted best video games of the year are BioShock, Call of Duty 4 – Modern Warfare, Assassin’s Creed, Super Mario Galaxy, and Orange Box. BioShock is an adventure video game that becomes a complete experience for gamers. Gamers become immersed in the action of this video game where the environments are remarkable and the game play begins to invade your mind.

BioShock has the ability to make gamers feel like that are actually wandering through the 1960s era of a undersea utopia that is populated by a crazed zombie and crazy girls that go around carrying chemicals that will help enhance your biological superpowers. This video game goes right down to the detail with props and costumes from the 1960s period, which make such a realistic experience for gamers. The story and concept are incredible and the within the video game there are many rooms to explore, not to mention all the creepy elements that make this video game part sci-fi novel and part horror film. This video game has been rated M for mature.

Another great video game is Call of Duty 4 – Modern Warfare, which is a combination of edge of your seat warfare along with a great story line and even better visual effects. This version of Call Of Duty has been reinvented into a more modern conflict and is a perfect blend of action and realism of visual affects that are unbelievable. This video game has a well-crafted story line that is full of unexpected surprises that is sure to keep gamers pleased for hours of fun. This video game has been rated M for mature.

Assassin’s Creed is another stunning video game that has naturally fluid control capabilities and incredible missions that are set within the Middle Ages. The main character in this video game has free-run abilities that are the best of any video game this year. This video game has been rated M for mature. The Mario Brothers are back with Super Mario Galaxy. In this new video game Mario soars from planet to planet within a colorful masterpiece where controls are easily handled. This video game is a combination of puzzles and action. This video game has been rated E for everyone.

The Orange Box is a combination of five amazing video games in one and has become one of the best values in video games of the year. This video game consists of a brain busting game called Portal and a multi-player game called Team Fortress 2 that is fun and stylish. It also includes the intense story of Half Life 2 that is filled with action. This is an incredible video game that has some thing for every one and is rated teen to mature.

Video Games Get The Final Votes is a post from: Fasemex Toys

WOOD

Birds need to chew, wood is an excellent material to satisfy this natural urge. Birds play most often with wood toys. Wooden toys are meant to be destroyed. Some bird owners may be frustrated by the destructive nature of their parrots. However, chewing is a natural instinct and vital to birds mental and physical well-being. If you provide only acrylic toys they will often find other, more expensive ways to satisfy their chewing needs (i.e., molding, furniture). It is important to know what woods are safe for your bird. Both soft and hardwoods are commonly used in toys.

Safe Woods (not a complete list):

Pine, Balsa, Birch, Basswood, Poplar, Maple, Walnut, Ash, Apple, Elm, Cactus (Cholla) and Manzanita

Unsafe Woods (not a complete list):

Cedar, Red Cherry, Plywood. Oak

If you like to make your own toys NEVER use pressure treated wood, it is treated with arsenic and will poison your bird. If using natural branches make sure they have not been exposed to insecticides. Also, take care to collect branches in areas removed from highways where plant life may have absorbed toxic emissions from cars. Scrub all branches with a non-toxic disinfectant (dilute chlorine bleach), rinse and dry thoroughly.

If you need to clean wood toys, don’t soak them. It is best to wipe them clean with a damp cloth or sand the soiled area until clean. If your bird likes to dunk his toys beware that moisture can promote bacterial growth and the toys should either be discarded or thoroughly cleaned and dried in a low temperature oven before returning them to the bird.

Birds are able to distinguish colors therefore color makes wood toys more attractive and interesting to birds. Manufacturers usually color wood with food coloring or vegetable dyes. We don’t believe in flavoring wood as the bird should not be encouraged to ingest the wood and, unless properly controlled, the fruit sugars often used provide a perfect medium for bacterial growth. Do not buy toys that have been stained or varnished to add color. If you are interested in a toy with painted parts (ie, ABC blocks) make sure that only non-toxic, child safe paints were used.

ROPE

Several kinds of rope are used in bird toys. Only 100% natural fiber ropes such as cotton, hemp (jute), or sisal should be used in bird toys. Nylon blend ropes should never be used as they can result in serious injury and cuts due to the strength of the strands if the birds get caught in it. Ropes can be safe as long as they are maintained properly and the bird’s beak and nails are kept trim. There have been safety problems noted when excessive fraying occurs. Birds have choked and lost circulation to legs by getting tangled in ill maintained ropes. Rope toys have proven very beneficial in solving feather picking problems and therefore we don’t like to discount rope as a viable material. Bird owners have a responsibility to check their bird’s rope toys daily and to cut back or discard rope toys when they become frayed and present a hazard to their bird.

CHAIN

Chain should have welded not open links. Un-welded chain provides sharp surfaces and narrow openings which have been known to cut toes. Make sure the links are a safe size for your bird, if toes get caught in the links the result can be broken toes or legs. Chain length is also a consideration as a long length of chain could conceivably end up wrapped around a bird’s neck during a vigorous play session. As the wood components are chewed off, a chain hazard could develop. Owners must monitor the status of toys and ensure that as they physically change safety hazards do not develop.

FASTENERS

This is a crucial area of concern as good fasteners are expensive and therefore many manufacturers cut corners and use potentially unsafe items such as split key rings or dog leash type snap hooks. Birds have been cut and lost circulation to toes and tongues on toys utilizing split rings and spring type clamps. For conures or larger birds we recommend either Quick-links (also sometimes called C-clamps) or Pear links to attach toys to the bird’s play area. They come in a variety of sizes and can be tightened with a wrench easily to prevent the bird from unhooking his toys. This type of fastener provides the least potential for injury. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be purchased from your local hardware store if needed to replace unsafe fasteners from existing toys.

Do not use split key rings, spring loaded clips or metal shower rings to fasten your toys. Small hardware pieces can be ingested accidentally. Birds have cut toes and tongues on split rings and spring type clamps.

ZINC

A lot has been mentioned recently about zinc toxicity in birds. Many bird toys are made with zinc coated (galvanized) metal components. Zinc is also commonly found in cage powder coatings. Some avian health specialists have stated that in order for zinc related health problems to result that the parrot must actually swallow the metal components and that “beaking” the parts is insufficient for toxicity to develop unless the galvanized coating is extremely brittle and flaky. If a bird spends a lot of time chewing on toy hardware (i.e., washers, quick links, wire) then it is possible they will ingest enough zinc to build up toxic levels in their systems over time. Owners who are worried about the possible health effects can often find stainless steel replacement components at their local hardware store. This option is also often much more cost effective to the consumer than buying toys constructed with stainless steel parts.

PLASTICS

Acrylics are used in many toys today and if sized properly to the bird are virtually indestructible. If purchasing acrylic toys we recommend the acrylic have a minimum thickness of 3/16?. Recently, there has been a shift back towards wood toys because although the acrylics are durable and attractive they are also not as fun for the bird who likes to chew. We recommend that a few of your birds toys be acrylic or a blend of acrylic and wood, they will be long lasting and the bright colors used are stimulating to your bird.

When considering toys with plastic components a bird owner must consider the nature of the plastic component (i.e., soft vs. brittle) relative to the size of the bird. Brittle plastics should not be given to larger birds because when they break very sharp, cutting edges are formed and if swallowed accidentally could result in ruptured organs. Hard plastic toys specifically designed for parakeets and cockatiels should not be given to larger birds with the beak power to destroy them.

LEATHER

Leather is a great material for birds to safely play with and chew on. Most birds especially like to spend hours untying knots made in leather strips.

Only vegetable tanned leather should be used on bird toys. Do not buy toys with dyed leather or leather tanned with chemicals as most are toxic to birds (i.e., chromium, formaldehyde). For this reason you should also not retire old shoes, belts and pocketbooks to your birds toy chest.

Replace leather if soiled or wet. Bacteria will flourish under these conditions. Many toy companies will sell replacement leather strips.

When hanging toys strung on leather (or rope or chain), avoid leaving a long strand between the toy and the cage. Some birds when rambunctious with their toys can get the leather wrapped around their necks and strangle. It is best to tie the toy close to the bars of the cage.

RINGS

When choosing toys with rings or large plastic chain links make sure that the rings are of a size that the bird can’t get his head stuck in them and choke. Also beware of toys with multiple rings looped directly together as birds have met similar fates when they have been trapped between the rings.

BELLS

Birds love to make noise and bells provide a fun source for their merrymaking. If a bird is mechanically inclined and can remove the clapper the potential exists for swallowing/choking. Make sure the bell clapper can not be removed by the bird. If it is not securely fastened either remove it or weld it (we recommend silver solder). Make sure the clapper is not lead (toxic), if it is lead you will be able to dent the clapper with your fingernail. Do not buys toys that use jingle type bells, toes can become caught and cut in the wide to narrow openings, we recommend the cow or liberty bell design. Appropriately size the bell to the bird so it will be able to withstand the power of the beak.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Just because the label says the product is safe doesn’t mean that it’s OK for your bird. Any toy has the potential to be unsafe if improperly sized to the bird. Ask your toy vendor or bird store owner for help or advice on choosing a toy appropriate for your bird.

As with kids, no toy is 100% safe for all birds. Use common sense and supervise your bird when you first give him a new toy. Observe how he interacts with the toy to determine how best to hang it and where and when to allow him to play with it (some toys are safer outside the cage).

Provide a wide variety of toys and rotate them in and out of the cage or play area. Variety will help alleviate boredom and keep your bird more alert and curious. Keep 2-3 toys minimum in the birds cage and don’t overstuff the cage so the bird doesn’t have room to move.

Don’t assume that if your bird doesn’t like a toy that it won’t play with any toy. Try something different and take the time to observe what your bird finds interesting in terms of design, texture or size.

Introduce toys to baby birds but make them small…don’t intimidate them. Hand toys are some of the safest toys available and they are especially great for young birds as they help to develop hand-eye coordination.

Play with your bird…most birds think it’s great fun to chase balls across the floor or couch, play “catch” or “pick it up” with mom or dad.

This guide is by no means comprehensive but we have tried to address as many issues as possible. When in doubt, ask for help. We sincerely wish you a long, happy and healthy relationship with your bird.

Parrot Owners – Materials Commonly Used in Bird Toys is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Government of India has prohibited import of ‘Toys’ from China appearing under ITC Codes 9501, 9502, 9503 of Schedule – I of ITC(HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items. The prohibition has come with effect from 23 January 2009 and will remain in force for six months. Prohibition covers following toys from China:

9501 Wheeled toys designed to be ridden by children (for example, tricycles, scooters, pedal cars); dolls’ carriages

Although DGFT notification No. 82 /(RE-2008)/2004-2009 dated 23 January 2009 says that “Import of Toy” are prohibited, since the prohibition covers all goods falling under Codes 9501, 9502, 9503, even parts of such toys are covered within the said prohibition. The apparent reason for import ban on Chinese toys is concern about child safety. It is believed that Chinese toys contain high level of toxicity injurious to the health of a child. High levels of lead in children’s bodies can cause physical illnesses, including diarrhea and nausea, and can also, reportedly, harm children’s intellectual development and their IQ levels. Phthalates -DEHP, DBP and BBP, commonly added to plastic products to make them soft and pliable, found in soft plastic toys may cause serious long-term side effects, such as hormone malfunctioning and reproductive defects. CPC and other hazardous chemicals used in doll dress are believed to be carcinogenic. It is also alleged that Chinese toys have loose small parts which may come off from the toys while playing and may be a health hazard when swallowed by the child.

In recent months, Chinese toys have created a scare worldwide for above reasons and led to recall of many toys. Mattel recalled “Sarge” vehicles, Dora the Explorer products, gangly dolls of Big Bird from Sesame Street and almost a million other toys from its Fisher-Price line and Nickelodeon characters, all manufactured in China. RC2’s Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway toy line were recalled. In January 2009, DDI Inc., Iowa, USA recalled Toy Construction Play Sets and Fantas-Eyes Inc., New York, USA recalled High School Musical Manicure Kits all manufactured in China due to lead containment. A comprehensive list of the Chinese toys recalled in recent months in USA can be accessed @ http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/category/toy.html. I

t is really very scary to know that our children are playing with life threatening Chinese toys and it appears that Government has really done a commendable job. USA and European countries have taken a lead in recalling the Chinese toys, and India, a latecomer joined the bandwagon by banning the import. Many countries in the world have quality standards for Toys & Children’s Products. Most of these seek to limit potential hazards, such as choking or fire hazards that could cause injury. Children, especially very small ones, often put toys into their mouths, so the materials used to make a toy are regulated to prevent poisoning. Materials are also regulated to prevent fire hazards. Children have not yet learned to judge what is safe and what is dangerous, and parents do not always think of all possible situations, so such warnings and regulations are important on toys.

Presently, India does not have quality standard for toys. It is reported in media that Government is working out quality standard for toys and within six months we will have our own standard. Till such time, our children are deprived from the pleasure of toys. I think you know all what I have told as you may also be following the frenzied media reporting about the recall of dodgy Chinese products from superstore shelves in the US, UK and other European countries. All this happened in spite of the fact that they have very tough quality standard. We also know that quality of Chinese toys exported to US and Europe is much higher than what the Indian importers have been importing into India. Therefore, India is rather facing a much more precarious situation at home.

Still I am wondering whether ban on Chinese toys is correct. Are Chinese toys actually lethal or “toxic toys” drama is a poisonous metaphor for contemporary fears of China, of its apparently rapacious economic growth, of adulteration of milk and chocolate products. Lead-based paints are dangerous when the lead is leached and indigested by the children. Lead can’t be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Lead from the paint can be leached only by continuous sucking on such toys and putting them in the mouth for days at a stretch, or by indigestion of significant amount of scrapings of paints. Children often suck on toys, but not for ‘days at a stretch’.

In the year 1998-99, the George Foundation under “Project Lead Free” screened blood of children in major cities and found that over 51% of the children below the age of 12 living in major urban areas of India had unacceptably elevated levels of blood lead of 10 mcg/dl or more. Blood lead levels in children of around 10 mcg/dl are associated with disturbances in early physical and mental growth and in later intellectual functioning and academic achievement. Lead contamination most often arises from the dust and soil, but can also come from lead water pipes or environmental pollution. Lead concentrations in blood of residents near waste dump, where you can see a large number of children playing, is typically high. However, none of the various studies have ever pointed out lead in paints of toys as a contributing factor for higher lead concentration in children blood.

Toys have a history as old as human civilization itself. The origin of toys is prehistoric; dolls representing infants, animals and soldiers are readily found at archaeological sites. They have been written about in some of our oldest literature. Toys excavated from the Indus valley civilization (3000-1500 BCE) include small carts, whistles shaped like birds, and toy monkeys which could slide down a string. Toys, like play itself, serve multiple purposes in both humans and animals. They provide entertainment while fulfilling an educational role. Toys enhance cognitive behavior and stimulate creativity. They aid in the development of physical and mental skills which are necessary in later life. Toys for infants often make use of distinctive sounds, bright colors, and unique textures. Through play with toys infants begin to recognize shapes and colors. Repetition reinforces memory.

We grew with toys made from clay and wood. They were simple toys produced by village artisan. Fancy toys were luxury meant for affluent. A lot of water has flown in Ganges since the import of toys was de-regulated. Now, Chinese toys are not only available to urban kids but even invaded remotest and poorest household in India. Chinese toys are complicated with flashing lights and sounds which appeal to children. Cheap Chinese toys create a ‘wow’ moment for kids that have fun, innovative features and include new technologies and engaging content. I am amazed with a cheap Chinese helicopter which goes 10 feet up in the air and cost just Rs 800/.

Chinese toys are not “Toxic” but “Exotic” for the children. There are more toxic substances out there ruining health of our kids and killing them. A World Bank study of 2000 put the number of yearly deaths in India among children due to dirty water at 2.06 million. The maximum permissible level (MPL) of lead recently proposed by Codex Alimentarius Commission is 0.1 ?g/g for cocoa butter (a key ingredient in chocolate) and 1.0 ?g/g for cocoa mass and cocoa powder (COPAL 2004b). In a recent study of cocoabased chocolates sold in India, Dahiya found the average lead concentrations to be 1.92 ?g/g, which is much higher than MPL. By banning the import of Chinese toys, we are depriving our children from some cheap exotic toys which the kid has become accustomed to. I fail to understand how parents are going to convince the child about harmful effect, or it is going to be “Tabilisation” of childhood.

Some may argue that Government has banned import of toys only from China and imports from other countries are still allowed and therefore our children will not be deprived of the pleasure of toys. Import statistics of toys for past 5 years reveals that about 90% of imported toys were from China. Korea is a distant 2nd source.

Therefore, other countries are unlikely to fill in the vacuum created on banning of Chinese toys. The notification has banned import of toys parts also. Domestic toy manufacturer importing parts from China are also likely to suffer. China has shown the world that mass production can bring the cost of products to ridiculous low level. Even if Indian entrepreneurs tries to fill in the gap, they will never be able to match the price which our remotest and poorest household in India have witnessed in near past. Surprisingly, notification prohibits import of ‘Toys’ from China. It is estimated that about 75% of toys sold in USA are manufactured in China. It is also known that parts and components manufactured in China are widely used by toys manufacturer around the world. It is a question of interpretation whether Chinese toys imported from USA or other countries will be permitted free import. Toys sold by Mattel, Funskool & Lego will also be affected as either toys or parts are Chinese. Many quality standards around the worlds are available for toys. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has certain quality standards, ISO 8124-1:2000 for Safety of Toys, ISO 8124-2:1994 for Flammability, ISO 8124-3:1997 for Migration of Certain Elements. Similarly, ASTM, American and European standards are also available. Till our standards are drafted, Chinese toys may be allowed importation as per ISO or ASTM standard. I Hope that cry of our children will be heard by the policy makers in near future. Till then, I am mourning the demise of Chinese toys from the life of our kids.

Banning of Chinese toys- Kids’ Story is a post from: Fasemex Toys

Video games suppliers were already doing business in the internet without video games distributors during the early years of the video game business in the internet. During those early years there were only two players in the video games business: the video games suppliers and the video games retailers. The video games retailers were only those who had website stores and sold video games to online clients supplied to them by suppliers.

Originally, suppliers of these video games were usually the marketing department of the company that made the video games. As the competition for the production of new video games and its marketing heated, affiliated companies involved in the manufacture of video games began to realize that they can save more if they just concentrate in video games production and let other middlemen do the marketing for them. A perfect example of leverage and delegation for sure!

This concept gave birth to the wholesale distributorship of video games. Soon, wholesale video games distributors were already the ones supplying the video games need of both the online and offline retail outlets.

With this set up, wholesale distributors will purchase from the video games suppliers or maker of the video games the finished products and will be the ones to distribute them to their respective retailer outlets at wholesale prices. Depending on their arrangement with suppliers, the cost of marketing tools like stickers, leaflets, posters and even TV and print media ads will either be shouldered by supplier or wholesale distributor.

Some knockout differences between the two and things you should know about how they conduct their business most of the time. In Terms of Ownership: Suppliers are usually the sales department of a firm engaged in the production or bulk distribution for some companies for video games.

Originally, they were supposed to be tasked the marketing and distribution of their products, but to save on cost, they are now mainly the servicing department for privately owned wholesale distributors who would purchase their products in bulk orders and distribute them to online and offline retailers at wholesale prices. Thus, suppliers are owned by the manufacturer of goods while distributors are privately owned firms that buy goods in bulk from the supplier.

In Terms of Function: In most cases, video games distributors have exclusive contracts with suppliers that would make distributors the only firm to market the video game products of their company. As such, suppliers will have only to sell direct to the wholesale distributors.

On the other hand, wholesale distributors will be the one who will function to market the products they bought from the suppliers. Their distribution of the video game products will include both online and offline retail.

In terms of effort, it is the wholesaler distributor who is tasked with the burden in making sure that the video games will be popular with players. But in terms of profit, he also has the most to gain because of the volume of transaction that he handles among the video game retailers that he supplies.

In a sense, video game distributors have the freedom to be retailers as an additional option to maximize profitability while video game suppliers would be more than happy seeing their products well marketed by video game distributors. So what is better for you may be the next question you may ask perhaps?

Video Games Suppliers or Video Games Distributors For Business? is a post from: Fasemex Toys