New York, NY — Irwin Toy announced that its Dragon Ball Z actions figures are among the "Top 10 Best Selling Toys Overall," based on an survey of retailers by PlayDates Inc., as announced at the PlayDates 2001 exposition in New York. 

Kevin Sayer, Director of Marketing, Irwin Toy Development, said, "The tremendous popularity of Dragon Ball Z reflects the hit Dragon Ball Z show, which tops the Cartoon Network's ratings. Irwin Toy's Dragon Ball Z sales are up dramatically, signalling strong retail demand through the holidays."

Alison Myles, Marketing Manager, added, "Retailers are featuring the line as kids and collectors seek out the figures of their favorite Dragon Ball Z characters, which reflect the storyline of the TV show."

PlayDate 2001 provides early predictions on what toys will be the best sellers. The event featured some 25 manufacturers and retailers, toy and game demonstrations, product launches and expert presentations on industry trends. This is the third year PlayDate has been held in the US. 

PlayDates 2001 "Top 10 Best Selling Toys Overall: Bionicle (Lego), Bob The Builder Electronic Talking Scoop (Playskool), Dragonball Z Figures (Irwin Toy), Tonka Dusty My Talkin' Tool Bench (Hasbro), Jam 'n Glam Barbie (Mattel), LeapPad (LeapFrog), Play TV Sports (Radica Games), Polly Pocket (Mattel), Rescue Heroes (Fisher Price), Rumble Robots (Trendmasters)