By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief US toy and entertainment company Hasbro announced Jan. 26 that it would be restructuring, laying off 15% of its workforce. The news rocked Wall Street analysts, as Hasbro shares dropped sharply in overnight trading after the late day announcement Thursday, and continued its fall on Friday. Hasbro primarily blamed the decline in … [Read more...] about Toy Industry Shocker: Hasbro to Lay Off 1,000 Employees
Traditional Toys/Games
Licensing Law: Black Eyed Peas Suing MGA Over Pooping Unicorn Song
Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief As a journalist, you never think you're going to write a sentence like "The Black Eyed Peas are suing a toy company over a pooping unicorn toy," but such is life. When I saw the news that BMG Rights Management has filed a suit against MGA over their Poopsie Slime Surprise: Dancing Unicorn toy, I had to double check to make sure someone … [Read more...] about Licensing Law: Black Eyed Peas Suing MGA Over Pooping Unicorn Song
Chefclub Signs Five New Licenses For Cooking Themed Toys
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The food-themed content studio Chefclub has secured five new toy distribution partnerships with White Knight Toys, Autruche, Hutter Trade, JPM Toys, and CMC Global. The companies will be the exclusive domestic licensing agents for Chefclub’s line of kid-focused cooking utensils in their respective regions. White Knight Toys will be … [Read more...] about Chefclub Signs Five New Licenses For Cooking Themed Toys
Mattel Unveils All New Line for Disney Princess and Frozen
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Toymaker Mattel has revealed its new line up for its licensed Disney Princess and Disney Frozen lines. The Disney dolls line is among the most popular in the world, as it celebrates the adventures of Disney 'Princess' films and particularly Disney Frozen. The Mattel dolls are known for their attention to detail, allowing fans to bring … [Read more...] about Mattel Unveils All New Line for Disney Princess and Frozen
Magic Mixies Becoming “A Licensing Hit” Says Bulldog
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Bulldog Licensing has secured new licensing deals with Kokomo and RJ Bags for Moose Toys’ Magic Mixies brand. Founded in 2007, Bulldog is a UK-based licensing agency that works with brand owners to develop merchandise programs for both international and domestic markets. The Magic Mixies brand initially launched during Christmas 2021 … [Read more...] about Magic Mixies Becoming “A Licensing Hit” Says Bulldog
Who’s News: ZAG Makes Key Hire For New Toy Division
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter ZAG has appointed James Nunziati as Head of Global Sales for ZAG Play's recently launched Toy Division. In his new position at ZAG Play, Nunziati will build on the Toy Division's sales operations by developing and executing new sales strategies and establishing sustainable relationships with both customers and retailers. He will also … [Read more...] about Who’s News: ZAG Makes Key Hire For New Toy Division
Hasbro’s Releases Gelfire Blaster With World’s Top YouTuber
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Hasbro has released its much anticipated NERF Pro Gelfire blaster, in collaboration with YouTube star MrBeast. The latest licensed product from Hasbro is a testament to the growing commercial power of social media stars. Last week MrBeast surpassed the long-time record holder PewDiePie to become the most watched channel on YouTube, … [Read more...] about Hasbro’s Releases Gelfire Blaster With World’s Top YouTuber
Arcade1Up Literally Adds Some Risk To Your Gaming Life
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Arcade1Up and Hasbro have teamed up to add the classic strategy game Risk to Arcade1Up's Infinity Game Table. The Infinity Game Table is a hybrid touchscreen board game table that combines digital and tabletop experiences. Risk joins close to 100 other licensed games for the device, including Scrabble, Chutes & Ladders, Clue, and … [Read more...] about Arcade1Up Literally Adds Some Risk To Your Gaming Life
Spin Master Puts the Pieces Together To Acquire Puzzle Company
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Spin Master has reached an agreement to acquire the Canadian-based puzzle company, 4D Brands International. "As part of our long-term growth strategy, we're focused on finding new, pathbreaking acquisitions that will further expand our presence in key categories of play, as well as expanding our reach and connection with consumers," said … [Read more...] about Spin Master Puts the Pieces Together To Acquire Puzzle Company
Toy Association Names Top STEAM Toys for 2022
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The Toy Association has unveiled its Holiday 2022 STEAM Toy Guide, which includes 30 officially accredited STEAM-based toys. The STEAM Toy Guide features hands-on toys and activities that engage kids in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Each toy on the list has passed a strict product evaluation process to earn an official … [Read more...] about Toy Association Names Top STEAM Toys for 2022