Retail Marketing News South Africa

It's toy time!

Toys for Boys is back! One of Gauteng's most exciting consumer expos is soon to make its long-anticipated return September 28-30 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (formerly Nasrec).

Toys for Boys is the quintessential modern lifestyle show for the aspirational Gauteng urban male. For a number of years this expo set the standard for others to follow, and now after being in hibernation, the event is back – even more exciting, even sexier and with more interactive features than ever before.

The return could not have come at a better time as we see the culmination of many lifestyle trends all catering to the aspirational urban man. The recent explosion and availability of gadgets, phones, PDA's, home theatre systems etc, has ensured that these kinds of technological lifestyle accessories are no longer seen as luxuries, but rather as must-haves for modern living. Combined with rocketing interest in men's magazines and grooming products, it is clear that The Man... is back! Toys for Boys is therefore perfect reminder that it really is great to be a man!

This year's expo sees a number of exhibition industry experts joining forces to produce an event that will raise the bar for consumer expos to follow. The team behind this year's Toys for Boys comprises of Global Village, The JHB Expo Centre and Oasys Exhibitions, who together bring their years of experience to bear in producing this event. Craig Newman, JHB Expo Centre CEO explains, “Our location, as well as our vast indoor and outdoor spaces, is the perfect setting to provide our guests with a memorable and amazing interactive experience. JHB Expo Centre Nasrec is proud to be affiliated with the event and to play host to what will, again, become Johannesburg's greatest consumer expo”.

Visitors will be able to try out the latest in technology, audio-visual equipment, outdoor and sporting equipment and accessories, luxury and power vehicles, high-end liquors and cigars, grooming products, and much more. They will also be able to take part in test drives of top cars on the JHB Expo Centre track as well as get up to date with the latest in 4 x 4 and off-road adventure trends. Extreme motorcycling, radio controlled cars, box car racing, and car pimping will all be on hand, as will a range of outdoor sports and adventure activities, from clay pigeon shooting to putting in the golf simulator.

For those more interested in technology, audio-visual equipment and gaming, there will be a wide array of audio-visual equipment, musical instruments and sound systems, PC and other interactive gaming opportunities and more gadgets than you can imagine.

Experience the best in men's accessories from jewellery and watches to grooming products and fragrances, and for the more sophisticated palate, whisky and wine tastings will appeal. The organisers haven't forgotten you naughty men, either… the exclusive Naughty Boys Bar will prove a favourite attraction. This super sexy and extravagant bar for over 18's will feature dancing, sizzling entertainment and top-quality cigars for your pleasure.

If you prefer the more laid-back environment, guests can also choose to relax in the Toys for Boys beer garden and enjoy live entertainment throughout the event from the best in South African music and the sexiest SA models. Live music will take place on-stage throughout the event featuring a host of top rock, pop and R & B acts. As if that's not enough, tasteful yet definitely sexy lingerie fashion shows will also inspire and intrigue the Toys for Boys guests.

Toys for Boys Event Director Yvonne Loxton explains, “As expos go, Toys for Boys is by far the most entertaining and experiential event out there. It has a unique magic that we are very proud to be bringing back for our exhibitors and public alike.” Marc Israelsohn – CEO of Global Village, goes on to add, “Global Village is extremely proud to revive the Toys for Boys event. This well established consumer expo brand will live up to its promise of excitement, cutting edge technology and the best in entertainment.”

For more information on exhibiting at the show, contact Yvonne Loxton at Global Village: 011 544 2300 or

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