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The Spin on Flying Toys
By Pennie Hoover
March 1, 2003


Finding Comfort in Flight

“We saw an increase in stores after September 11, as many people wanting to take control of their lives started stores,” said Koehn. They also found new customers returning to hobbies in search of family activities, resulting in an increase in sales and two good holiday seasons. As the target market widens to include younger shoppers, stores like Hobby Town are also stocking more specialty toys and impulse items—ranging from water and hand-operated products to wind-powered toys.

Kites Keep Up with the Times

Kite makers today are keeping up with consumer demand for innovation. Along with upgrading the materials to improve the appearance and movement of the kite, mainland China kite manufacturers are continuously developing smaller, foldable models for easier packaging and transport. Other popular options include artistic designs, lights, and even whistles. However, sales of the newer electric kites have been below expectation.

Maggie Vohs, Executive Director of Kite Trade Association International (KTAI) says, “ At a time when many associations are suffering, KTAI is holding it’s own with modest growth.” At a recent trade show, KTAI manufacturers received over 700 orders, up significantly from the previous year. Vohs explained she has been seeing increases over the last ten years as retailers have begun coming to trade shows armed with purchase plans, discount requests and a desire to place orders.

Vohs foresees new entrants in the kite market too. “We are finding more and more specialty retailers of things like cameras, books, etc. adding kites to their lines for seasonal boosts.”

 

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Flying Toys:
The View From Up There: Kites Just Keep Getting Cooler

Industry Overview:
The Spin on Flying Toys

Product Spotlight: Toys that Take Flight Without a Kite

Ask The Expert: The History of Kites

Cool Company:
DraganFly: Bringing the Wild Blue Indoors

Real Retailer: It’s a Dolly-Doll World

ToyDirectory Mom: A Tomboy Mom with Barbie-Doll Daughters



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