Finding the next big hit for kids and parents alike is all in a day’s work for Guillaume, the purchasing director at Pierre Belvédère. His secret? A sharp instinct, careful analysis, and hands-on testing.
Hunting for Hidden Gems
Guillaume starts by keeping a close eye on emerging toy trends—eco-friendly designs, new technology, popular themes… But for him, a great toy goes beyond the latest craze. He’s looking for the WOW factor, that instant spark that grabs attention and makes kids’ eyes light up. “A toy should make you want to play the second you see it,” he explains.
Hands-On Testing: Play, Observe, Analyze
No toy makes the cut without a hands-on test. Guillaume gets to work, asking himself three key questions: Is it intuitive? Sturdy? Fun over time? “If a toy loses its appeal after an hour, it won’t make it into our selection,” he says.
Safety First, Then the Final Pick
Every product must meet strict standards: no small, hazardous parts, compliance with Canadian and European regulations, and durable materials. But beyond the tests, a toy must create an instant connection. “If I hesitate, I move on,” Guillaume admits.
That’s how he handpicks the best toys—by combining instinct, expertise, and high standards. Because a great toy isn’t just something kids play with… it’s the one they keep coming back to, again and again.