Astra

Astra

Non-profit Organizations

Chicago, IL 2,255 followers

The Guiding Star of the Specialty Play Community

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About us

Founded in 1992, ASTRA (American Specialty Toy Retailing Association) is an international not-for-profit trade organization serving more than 1,900 independent retailers, manufacturers and sales representatives of the specialty toy industry. We are a dedicated community of industry professionals committed to providing children with healthy, quality play materials that have high play value. Our members build their businesses around specialty toys, which are designed with a focus on what the child can do, rather than what the toy can do. Our members are leaders who have a positive influence the economy, culture and creativity of the communities they serve. We provide members with access to networking opportunities, education, product discounts, business products and services to support members as they grow their businesses. ASTRA Academy houses a a robust offering of on-demand education and up-to-the-minute resources to help members navigate an ever-changing industry. Marketplace & Academy is the annual four-day trade show and education conference for the specialty toy industry and features new products, education from industry leaders and hands-on product demonstrations. The event draws more than 500 exhibits and offers attendees more than 30 hours of education. Learn more at www.astramarketplace.org. A volunteer board of 14 retailers, manufacturers and sales representatives governs the association.

Website
http://www.astratoy.org
Industry
Non-profit Organizations
Company size
2-10 employees
Headquarters
Chicago, IL
Type
Nonprofit
Founded
1992
Specialties
Toy Industry, Professional Development, Trade Show, Certification, Small Business, Independent Retail, Networking, and Industry Collaboration

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Updates

  • View organization page for Astra, graphic
    Astra

    2,255 followers

    It's National Book Lovers Day!😄 📘 Books are so important in the play community! Reading is critical for cognitive development in not only children but adults as well. Reading can not only stimulates your imagination but also expands your knowledge of the world. 🗺️ ⭐ Check out our store locator on our website to find Astra toy stores or book stores near you!📚 #astratoy #nationalbookloversday

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  • View organization page for Astra, graphic
    Astra

    2,255 followers

    We wanted to give some recognition to our amazing Marketing Manager, Victoria Weatherspoon!📈 💻 🌟 Victoria has a strong passion for Astra. Upon discussing with Victoria about her favorite part of Astra she proudly says the following, "This is hands down the best work environment I have had the honor to be a part of in my life. Everyone on staff truly works as a team and is there to support and encourage each other. We strive to create the best experience we can for our members and we do so together, with kindness and caring toward each other, patience and understanding with each other, and of course, lots of laughter along the way! I love these Astra all stars!"⭐ She continues to say her appreciation towards the play community, "I am monumentally grateful to be a part of the play community and it is such a unique experience. We bring play to people and I love that what we do is making the world a better place, one moment of joy at a time. The Play Community uplifts each other and sees the value in teamwork, camaraderie, and collaboration and I am here for it!" ❤️ We asked Victoria what her favorite way to play was and this was her response, "LOUDLY! I love things that get my body and/or mind moving and make me want to shout with excitement!"🗣️ 🤸♀️ Thank you Victoria for all of your hard work! Show some appreciation in the comments!😁 #astratoy #employeespotlight

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  • View organization page for Astra, graphic
    Astra

    2,255 followers

    🌟 Astra Play Awards nominations are now open!!🌟 Is it NEW, UNIQUE, SIGNIFICANT & AVAILABLE?👏 As a result of member feedback and requests, we started the nomination process earlier this year! Nominations will be accepted through February 28, 2025.🗓️ If you have any questions or would like to be on the Play Awards committee, please contact Kathy Trivisonno at ktrivisonno@astratoy.org or (773) 261-8707. 🤩 Start nominating here ---> https://lnkd.in/gP7CAwgN #astratoy #playawards

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