About PlaSmart

How and when did PlaSmart get its start?

Timothy Kimber, an Ottawa entrepreneur, discovered a unique ride on toy in China in late 2002 and instantly saw it’s potential in the toy market on a grander scale. He proceeded to develop a marketing plan and brand that is today’s award-winning PlasmaCar.

PlaSmart introduced themselves to the Toy Industry in 2003 with the introduction of PlasmaCar at the Canadian Toy Fair in Toronto. After learning about the toy industry in a small market and tweaking the marketing plan for 2 years in Canada, PlasmaCar arrived at the New York Toy Fair in 2005 and was an instant success with American retailers. PlaSmart has since expanded Internationally with distribution in 5 continents and over 20 countries.

With the success of PlasmaCar, PlaSmart has expanded their product line to include other unique, award-winning toys such as I-Gami and Rubbabu. PlaSmart has also continued to grow its operations in Canada by partnering with many US manufacturers to expand distribution of other award-winning brands in the Canadian market.

How would you describe the philosophy behind PlaSmart¹s toy-making?

Smart, simple toys. PlaSmart chooses products that are smart, simple, fun and unique and we avoid electronic toys and toys that are complicated to understand or operate. We continue to seek unique, one-of-a-kind toys that meet this smart and simple philosophy.

What do you consider the key demographic for your products?

Generally: PlaSmart products have been most successful in specialty toy and educational stores and have only recently been selling in larger and national retail establishments.

What is the product or line that to you exemplifies PlaSmart's products and philosophy, and why?

Rubbabu. Made from natural foam rubber, these vehicles, animals and balls are available in a range of bright, eye-catching colors. Unique materials, simple designs and exceptionally fun, appealing colors make it a perfect fit with our philosophy.

What have been some of PlaSmart's greatest successes, product-wise?

PlasmaCar is PlaSmart’s greatest success story to date. It has been a success since its introduction in Canada in 2003 and continues to grow in North America and expand Internationally.

What would you say is the defining characteristic of PlaSmart, as a company?

In addition to our smart, simple toys philosophy, we have an internal belief of “under promising and over delivering” to our retail partners with regards to products. Although there is an expectation to continually introduce new products, we resist the pull to add items for the sake of showing retailers something new. We focus on delivering products that offer a unique value for retailers and their customers alike.