I had the opportunity to visit the International Toy
Fair last weekend in Nuremberg, Germany. As usual for
this show, the vast array of everything from model railroads to helium balloons,
giant stuffed animals to huge die-cast construction equipment was almost too
much to take in.
I did get my first hands-on opportunity with the new 2012
Norscot models, which are nicely detailed and generated a good amount of buzz at
the show. However, pricing and delivery dates will not be available until a bit
later.
NZG has an impressive line-up of new models for this year and alluded to
next year being even better with the massive Bauma construction show rolling
around in 2013.
Motorart will be releasing four new Volvo construction models
later this spring.
Universal Hobbies continues to roll along with new Case
agricultural and Komatsu construction models all planned for this spring and
summer. They have plans to develop more US-specific models going
forward.
Bruder has a new Mack fire truck which is totally cool and will be a
Christmas sensation this year.
I also met with WSI, Eligor, GreenLight
Collectibles, and several other manufacturers and media
people.
Overall the mood was moderately upbeat. Collectors and
manufacturers both seem ready for a good year with a reasonable range of
carefully selected new models. Be on the lookout for the return of a
3000toys.com favorite in the weeks to come. Watch our blog, Facebook page, and
weekly emails for details as they become available.
Darin Stratton
President – 3000toys.com
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