ASTRA Fact Sheet

Mission: The mission of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) is to “lead the way through play” by providing quality products that help children have fun, achieve success and lead happy, healthy lives. We do this by providing leadership and resources to manufacturers, retailers, sales representatives, and others who are committed to producing and selling quality play materials with high play value.

Founded: 1992

Website: www.astratoy.org

Leadership:

Kathleen McHugh, President
Steven Aarons, Chair of the Board
Michael Ziegenhagen, Chair-Elect of the Board

Members: ASTRA currently has over 1300 members.

Locally-owned independent toy and children’s products retailers
Specialty toy manufacturers
Manufacturer’s representatives
Industry affiliates
Suppliers and service providers

Key Consumer Programs

Neighborhood Toy Store Day: Second Saturday of November each year. Promotes the advantages of buying specialty toys, and provides a free step-by-step guide to members.
Best Toys for Kids: leading toy list that represents the year’s top picks by independent toy store owners nationwide
ASTRA’s online store locater gives consumers a quick and easy way to find a neighborhood toy store.

Key Industry Programs

ASTRA’s Marketplace & Academy, the year’s largest gathering of the specialty toy industry
Resources for retailers, including product locater and group discounts
ASTRA at Toy Fair, including social events and Share the Fair guide
Educational programs and publications for independent toy retailers and specialty manufacturers

Click here to contact ASTRA