JAKKS Pacific launched the first major Pokemon toy release for North American in more than four years in 2007 with action figures, plush, electronics and play sets. Pokemon merchandise from JAKKS Pacific's was a no show at this years Toy Fair 08 with no new Pokemon toys announced. Pokemon USA closed down their online store, Pokemoncenter.com last month in favor of selling Pokemon merchandise exclusively through its retail partners.

The American International Toy Fair is one of a few major toy industry trade shows held around the world. The Toy Fair features demonstrations and displays in an open trade show setting, while the toy district showrooms offer a chance for buyers to consult with sales representatives from the major toy manufacturers in a quieter setting. It's very odd that Pokemon USA and JAKKS Pacific would not announce any new Pokemon merchandise at such a large event. Hopefully we will see a press announcement from both these companies later this year.

The eighth annual T.O.T.Y. Awards were given out Saturday night. Women in Toys’ Wonder Women of Toys awards honored nearly a dozen women for excellence in their respective specialties. Pokemon USA’s Holly Rawlinson took home the Licensor award.

Sources: http://www.playthings.com/ & Jakks Pacific Press Release