The company has made the difficult decision to close the UK operation. IMC product continues to be available to UK retailers via FOB and DDP programmes, while a solution to maintain supply to independent retailers will be confirmed shortly.
Due to recent cost challenges including escalating warehousing and freight rates, and in order to drive business efficiencies, IMC has made the difficult and sad decision to close its UK operation.
All functions have been centralised with immediate effect and will be managed by the experienced Hong Kong and Spanish teams for finance, operations and marketing.
The company’s FOB & DDP programmes will continue and will be managed by the Hong Kong subsidiary moving forward. IMC is also in conversation with several parties to support its independent and specialist retailers in the UK. UK country manager, Sue Barratt, told Toy World: “As soon as we have appointed a partner, we will announce the details and timing.”
IMC’s portfolio includes the top selling Cry Babies, Magic Tears and Baby Paws brands, and the company will continue to deliver its award-winning content and media strategies across UK and Ireland going forward. Autumn winter media plans remain in place for 2024.
IMC will be presenting its 2025 developments in LA, Nuremberg and at previews.
Sue Barratt commented: “The business is hugely grateful to the UK team for all their dedication, hard work and professionalism, especially over the last few weeks.”
As of now, all sales and operational enquires should be directed to Sue at sbarratt@imctoys.com or 07767 822260.
Marketing, communication, and media enquiries should be sent to Raquel Roca, rroca@imctoys.com.
