With a product patent for the US and Europe in place since 2010 – and having received a number of enquiries – Play Innovation finally touched down on American soil this May. The company received an invite from Chris Shelby, CEO of the IIMC (International Institute of Municipal Clerks) to take a booth at the organisation’s annual conference at the Hyatt Hotel and conference centre in Minneapolis.

The four-day IIMC Annual Conference is renowned for offering those working in local authority roles with practical and theoretical solutions to solve topical issues, such as tackling physical inactivity and anti-social behaviour in their communities.At the event, Play Innovation had the opportunity to introduce its unique range of products – designed to bring communities together and generate a positive impact on lives by engaging people in play and physical activity – to visitors.

Play Innovation focused on showing its patented target games and explained to potential customers how they are designed to tackle inactivity in children, young people and adults and can be attached to almost any rigid fence or wall.The Play Innovation stand generated a huge amount of interest among delegates, as the company’s message resonated with the event’s theme of finding innovative ways to improve lives.“What a journey we’ve had – in more ways than one,” says Marco Boi, Play Innovation founder.“We planned to explore the US market a few years ago but then the pandemic scuppered our plans, so we were delighted to take this first step.

The response was unbelievable. A unanimous thumbs up from almost every state and now we are actively thinking about a joint venture with a stateside partner to fully maximise the opportunity.“Our message really connected with the audience at IIMC, as they were receptive to finding and listening to new ideas and solutions.“We can’t wait to see where this latest stage of the journey takes us!”Fun Fact: As the event’s only overseas exhibitor, Play Innovation team shared the floor with some powerful players – such as Homeland Security and Dominion Voting. The latter was recently made famous by being the target of false accusations by Fox News over the 2021 US Presidential Election results and ending up winning US$787m in an out-of-court settlement!