There are changes we make each year. It's kind of like the fashion business, where people always look for a new tie. I still find it challenging and fun. Production of an order, from processing raw material to packaging for delivery, is often completed in 24 hours, Bergman said. Sales have increased about 5 percent to 7 percent in each of the last 10 years.
Products range from toy soldiers and big-wheel tricycles to gum ball machines and dolls.
A number of other products are made through licensing agreements with names such as Hasbro, Mattel, Tonka, Playskool and Disney. Our design and marketing manager, Dave Plotnick, had been very instrumental not only in coming up with new product ideas but also in negotiating licensing agreements with companies like Hasbro and Disney. Bergman said Plotnick is given free reign on toy design, adding that the company usually offers about 15 to 20 new toys each year. My guess is they just went out and bought some and used them. They sure look like ours, but I can't say for certain they are.