History
Founded in 1932, the Canadian Toy Association (CTA) is Canada’s national Association serving the interests of the toy, game, seasonal decorations, hobby product, manufacturers, importers and distributors. The Association’s head office is located just outside of Toronto, and it is estimated that Association members account for 80% of sales in this industry.
Mission Statement
To work collectively on a national and international level with all stakeholders - industry, retail, government and consumer - to protect and improve the business of toys, hobbies and seasonal decorations.
It is recognized there may be divergent opinions between members on some issues. The Association will deal with these on an ad hoc basis as they arise by forming sub-committees representing the different factions and reporting back to the general membership.
Activities
Most visible among the Association’s many activities is the promotion, organization and sponsorship of the Annual Canadian Toy and Hobby Fair. Held in Toronto in late January, this show attracts buyers from across Canada, the United States and around the world.
As early as 1969, the CTA was instrumental in developing toy safety standards through the work of the safety committee. Through its work in this area, the CTA helped Canada to pioneer the way among toy producing nations.
In the increasingly complex world of business, liaison between government and the industry becomes ever more important. On a day-to-day basis, the Association’s Safety and Government Relations Committees, and numerous sub-committees remain the most active. Other Committees are particularly concerned with the subjects of the environment issues, tariffs, taxation, packaging and labeling, and advertising guidelines.
Standing committees are also maintained on many fronts. Members are also kept up-to-date on business and legal matters through regular communications.
Services
- Annual General Meeting Conference
- Association Newsletter via email
- Association Publications
- Association Website
- Avis Car Rentals
- Eligibility to exhibit in the Canadian Toy & Hobby Fair
- Industry up-dates
- Introduction to new inventors-Potential new business
- Public Relations Program
- Co-operative with Panalpina
- ASL Warehousing and product management
- The Credit Collective
- Jones Brown Insurance
Who is eligible for membership?
Full Membership
Applications for membership in the Association may be made only by a corporation, partnership, or individual (not to include retailers) engaged in Canada in the manufacture and/or importation and distribution of toys, games, children books and puzzles, seasonal decorations, hobby and craft or such other articles as the Board of Directors may agree upon as necessary.
Associate Membership
Suppliers of a service to CTA member companies. It is the CTA's belief that this outline will convince firms of the benefits to be gained as members of the Association. While the CTA already represents a significant portion of the Canadian toy and hobby industry, each added member increases the weight of the presentation or representation made by the Association. This factor is particularly pertinent when dealing with any branch or level of government.
Active Committees
Advertising
Board of Directors (Officers & Directors only)
Executive Committee (Officers only)
Canadian Toy & Hobby Fair
Environment
Financial
Government Relations
Membership
Nominations
Public Relations
Safety
Strategy Committee
Social & Conventions
Organizations Supported by CTA
Alliance for Children and Television
Camp Leucan
Camp Oochegias
Foster Parents Plan
Canadian Advertising Foundation-Advertising Clearance Committee
Member of the International Council of Toy Industries
Canadian Toy Association
Suite 212
7777 Keele St.
Concord, Ontario L4K 1Y7
Tel. 905-660-5690 Fax. 905-660-6103
e-mail: info@cdntoyassn.com
Hall of Fame
The Canadian Toy Asociation Hall of Fame was established in 1995 to honour those who have developed, and continue to shape, Canada's toy and decoration industry. The Hall of Fame is a travelling exhibit which is on display at CTA events.
