Winner:PLATINUM - Best Heritage Toy Brand (Brands Over 10 Years Old)
Who:Le Toy Van
What:30th Anniversary Collection
Why:
This year, Le Toy Van celebrates 30 years of making beautifully made, magical, wooden toys. Since 1995 when Georges Le Van designed his very first wooden dolls house, the brand has become loved around the world for its stunning dolls houses, kitchens, playsets, vehicles and much more — all thoughtfully designed to nurture creativity and inspire hours of imaginative fun. Our judges were enchanted by the entire collection on display at the JDAs and praised the brand for its dedicated use of FSC™-certified wood and sustainably sourced rubberwood. With eco-friendly practices like solar-powered production and reduced plastic waste, this heritage toy company is dedicated to making toys that last whilst practicing environmental responsibility. Congratulations Le Toy Van! Here’s to the next 30 years.
I absolutely love the 30th Anniversary All-Natural Cherry Tree Dolls House, which is a real collector’s piece but most importantly offers hours of blissful imaginitive play.
The most gorgeous toys. Every detail’s perfect and my children love every item we have. So innovative with the amazing dolls houses, Dr’s bag and activity table.
Creative and engaging. Great to keep the kids busy and off screens.
Nostalgic and creative toys that encourage independent play and look beautiful in a home. Hard wearing, tasteful and loved by my daughter... 10/10.
Winner:GOLD - Best Heritage Toy Brand (Brands Over 10 Years Old)
Who:DJECO
What:70 years of play heritage
Why:
A brand where play and art come together in the most imaginative ways. For over 70 years, they have been creating toys that feel like little works of art— full of character and designed to spark wonder and inspire storytelling. The JDA judges were astounded to learn that the brand encompasses a collection of over 1600 designs, ranging from classic pull-along friends like Roulapic the rabbit, to the ever stylish Pomea dolls. The panel agreed that DJECO is a go-to brands for toys that encourage children to imagine, create and explore. Made with FSC®-certified wood and cardboard, these toys are safe, sustainable, lasting treasures for children everywhere.
These are such unique, artistic and fun toys. They always make an impression as they don’t look like anything else available. So imaginative!
My children love the dolls and accessories.
Creative fun and engaging toys.
I love Djeco for their dolls especially. The Pomea babies are so stylish: My daughter is obsessed with their soft bodies and closing eyes and I'm obsessed with their linen co-ords!
Winner:SILVER - Best Heritage Toy Brand (Brands Over 10 Years Old)
Who:Plum Play
What:Over 35 years of creating award winning toys with a focus on outdoor play
Why:
The benefits of active play are profound, and our judges could see what a huge role Plum Play plays in providing brilliant activity based toys, that allow children to test and challenge their physical capabilities in a safe and fun environment. Feeding imaginations since 1988, when husband-and-wife team Jonathan and Diane Schaffer set out to make childhood magical, Plum Play is now a global brand with more than 35 years of experience of producing high quality outdoor toys. From trampolines and climbing frames to scooters and highly realistic play kitchens that encourage role play, our judges agreed that Plum Play creates joyful spaces where active play and big imaginations can flourish.
Plum Play is the benchmark for safe, exciting and cleverly designed toys that provide hours of fun. These are the kind of toys that create the fabric of childhood memories.
I love the way this company innovates and stays so in tune with what kids really want. A trampoline can now have the added excitement of a water jet and play kitchens can have working ice machines! Brilliant.
Perfect for the kids that want to play grown-ups! I genuinely have kitchen envy over these sets.
Winner:BRONZE - Best Heritage Toy Brand (Brands Over 10 Years Old)
Who: Tamagotchi
What:The iconic 90’s toy updated for a new generation
Why:
The original virtual pet, Tamagotchi, made its debut in 1996 and quickly became a must-have for kids everywhere. Its quirky egg-shaped design and simple pixel screen gave children a pocket-sized friend to feed, play with and care for. Fast forward almost 30 years and Tamagotchi continues to charm a new generation, reimagined with updated designs and features while staying true to its nurturing roots. Our judges all took a step back in time and loved reacquainting themselves with this cute handheld toy that encourages kids to take responsibility for its survival. With its mix of retro cool and modern play value, Tamagotchi remains a timeless companion that bridges generations with fun, style and heart.
I got truly nostalgic over these! It’s so impressive how they have evolved and yet still have that instantly recognisable appeal which encourages gentle responsibility and autonomy.
So much better than a tablet for long car journeys.
Oh gosh! The Tamagotchi is back! I know my son would love the interactive quality of this toy, which is as tactile and cute as ever.
