The outdoor toys sector faced a tough 2012, mainly thanks to the poor weather, but suppliers remain optimistic for the year ahead.
Plum Products, which supplies play houses, trampolines, slides and more, weathered the storm, with swing sets up over 20 per cent and trampoline sales almost doubling.
Sales director Jon Tilley (pictured centre) told ToyNews: "The trade is always optimistic at this time of year with the spring and summer not far away. With Easter coming a little early again we are hopeful for a great start to the season. Parents love to get their kids out in the fresh air. As ever, we hold our breath and hope that the sun is going to shine. The outdoor trade is so dependent on this."
Traditional Garden Games' Richard Alexander Smyth added: "A repeat of last year's growth for us would be great. We believe the consumer will continue to focus on value for money in 2013, and this is supported by the high levels of interest shown in our 5 in 1 Games Compendium and our Sports Day Set."
Wheeled toys specialists are also confident. Re:creation and MV Sports both showed growth last year.
