Plush toy manufacturer Aurora World has appointed Lynn Ringer as Travel Retail Account Manager.

Ringer has been part of the Aurora management team for five years and moves to the travel retail division to support its continued growth in the air and on the seas.

Her resume includes management roles for LMS (the distribution arm of Stena Ferries) and Russ Berrie in addition to an overseas travel retail position in the US.

Aurora World’s travel retail business enjoyed growth of +35% in 2019 year-on-year with its doors increasing from 1,022 to 1,139.

Travel Retail Manager Garry Stoner said: “2019 was another phenomenal year for Aurora World as more and more retailers realise the potential of offering plush toys and gifts to consumers.

“The nautical and inflight sectors were particularly strong with a number of airlines listing Aurora for the first time including TUI UK.

“In order to ensure these businesses are well supported, and to continue the growth curve, we needed to expand the team. Lynn is the perfect choice, bringing huge experience to the table, both in terms of travel retail and plush.

“We’ve worked together before and so I know that she’ll be an indispensable member of the team and help to further grow Aurora World in global travel retail.”

Ringer added: “I’m really delighted to be back in the world of travel retail, working with Garry. I attended TFWA World Exhibition last year and the industry is every bit as exciting, dynamic and innovative as ever. What was really good to see was the interest in plush from new retailers and concessionaire groups.

“This year we’ve got some great new lines coming onboard, both for existing brands and new licenses – so it’s going to be a really busy year.”