ORLANDO, Fla., June 30, 2025 — Learning Express Toys, the nation’s leading franchisor of specialty toy stores, proudly hosted its 26th Annual Convention & Toy Expo at the enchanting Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World. The event, held from June 22nd to June 25th, united store owners, managers, and more than 100 top toy vendors from across the country for a dynamic week of inspiration, collaboration, and celebration.
The Learning Express Toys Annual Convention & Toy Expo continues to be a cornerstone of the franchise, offering a powerful mix of product discovery, business education, and community spirit. Attendees were immersed in the latest toy trends, participated in hands-on vendor demonstrations, and attended sessions designed to ignite growth, innovation, and customer delight.
“This year’s convention at Walt Disney World was nothing short of magical,” said Lauren Derse, CEO of Learning Express Toys. “From powerful keynote moments to unforgettable evenings under the fireworks at EPCOT, this event brought our entire community together with purpose and passion. We are leaving energized and inspired to bring even more joy to our customers.”
Convention Highlights:
- Motivational Keynote Speaker: A professional Disney speaker delivered a powerful message on leadership, storytelling, and creating magical guest experiences.
- FAC & MAC Committee Meetings: Franchise Advisory Council (FAC) and Merchandise Advisory Council (MAC) convened to collaborate on key initiatives for the year ahead.
- Vendor Expo: Dozens of vendors showcased and demoed their newest and most innovative toys, helping retailers prepare for a strong second half.
- Schmiesing 5K Memorial Run: A heartfelt and energizing start to the day, honoring a beloved member of the Learning Express family.
- PowerPlay Game Night: A high-energy, competitive evening where franchisees connected by learning and testing out new-to-market games.
- Private EPCOT Dinner & Awards Gala: A celebratory banquet and awards ceremony held at EPCOT, complete with a private viewing of Disney’s fireworks spectacular.
- Community Giving: At the culmination of the convention, Learning Express Toys and vendors proudly donated hundreds of toys to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, reinforcing the franchise’s commitment to spreading joy and supporting families beyond the sales floor.
Award Announcements:
- Banquet Awards
- Spotlight: Wireless Express
- Toy of the Year: Silent Basketball & Accessories
- Vendor of the Year: Melissa & Doug
- Marketing Excellence: Learning Express Toys of the Woodlands
- Founder’s Award: Learning Express Toys of Scarsdale
- Sales Awards
- Toy Network
- DM Merchandising
- US Toy
- Fahlo
- Hot Focus
- Wireless Express
- Top Sales
- 1st Place: LEGO
- 2nd Place: Epoch
- 3rd Place: Melissa & Doug
- 1st Place: LEGO
- Best Marketing Program
- Kawaii
- Product Awards
- ARTS & CRAFTS – Foil Fun
- DOLLS – My First Playset
- PUZZLE – Montessori Writing Lab
- PARTY FAVORS – Mystery Dragon Egg & Twiddle Dragon
- PLUSH – DC Softies
- PRESCHOOL – Vending Machine
- SCIENCE – Pinball Gumball Machine
- TRANSIT – Wild Style Remote Control Car
- TWEEN 7+ – Jellyfish Speaker
- TEEN 13+ – Mini Matte Crags
- BOOKS – Taylor Swift Paint By Sticker
- ACTION/SKILL SPORTS – Silent Basketball & Hoop
- COMPOUNDS – Dopeslime Texture Pack
- GAMES – Fast Push Game
- INFANT / TODDLER – PlayTab
- CONSTRUCTION – MicroMags Travel Set
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offered an inspiring backdrop, blending southwestern charm with Disney’s signature magic. Guests enjoyed stunning accommodations, on-site dining, beautiful pools, and seamless access to all the wonders of Walt Disney World.
About Learning Express Toys Inc. Convention
Learning Express Toys is the nation’s leading franchisor of specialty toy stores with over 85 locations, each one locally owned and operated. Known for its exceptional service, curated toy selection, and community involvement, Learning Express offers a magical in-store experience that includes free gift wrapping, personalization, gift registries, and exciting events for families year-round.
To learn more about becoming a Learning Express franchisee, contact Bruce Schneiderbauer at [email protected]
For media inquiries, please contact:
Meghan Thompson
[email protected]
(978) 889-1083