the Bloom Report

Toy & Game Industry's #1 News Summary Globally
Below is October 8 - 15, 2021. Click Here for Last Week

Articles posted daily with the most recent at top of each section and previous week drops off on Friday when we email you highlights.
Not only does the Bloom Report give you all the news you need to know... we give you all the news you didn't know you needed to know!" -Phil Bloom

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Welcome to your Weekly News Brief . . .

No Happy Friday today.

There is a palpable void in the ether of the toy industry. We have lost a visionary. Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s Chairman and CEO has passed away. We are all better for his creativity and leadership, whether we worked with him or competed with him, and we are all left with the indelible marks he made on Toy Nation. I didn't know Brian as well as some of you, but he always had something upbeat to say when we chatted and he responded to emails faster than one would think he could. Last July I asked him for a few written words to wish Reuben Klamer a Happy 99th. Instead, he recorded a heartfelt video of his birthday wishes and sent it to me right away. People were important to him.

If you knew Brian and would like to share a memory or message, a message board has been set up here.

Thank you for reading the Bloom Report.

Mary

tBR Columnist Tim Kilpin: Glimpses of an Extraordinary Life, in Three Dinners with Brian Goldner

I can’t say we were close. I knew Brian well enough to be on a first-name basis with him, and our professional paths had crossed many times over the years. I knew, of course, what the whole world knew – that he was a brilliant, driven, visionary leader who, with the help of an outstanding and talented team, built Hasbro into a formidable force, changing it and our industry for the better, forever. Though not always the largest company in toys, Brian ensured that Hasbro was, by far, the most influential.

Amidst the shock and sadness of Brian’s sudden passing, however, I can recall three dinners where I was lucky enough to have had a front-row seat to Brian’s impressive intellect, to witness his spark up close.

Early in 2001, just a few months into my role overseeing the Disney Toys business, my team and I had a day of meetings in Rhode Island with our newest and largest partner. I had just inherited the management of our complex, global, multi-category and multi-property deal, and navigating it would be both our teams’ top priorities in the years ahead. But over dinner on a cold New England night, what I remember most was the light in Brian’s eyes as he described his view of toy retailing in the future. Twenty years ago, Brian was looking past the significance of Toys R Us, had already pivoted to a landscape that Walmart was dominating, and had begun to ponder the meaning of eToys having recently gone public. We barely had the words to describe ecommerce at the time – but Brian was seeing far down the road, and we hadn’t even finished the appetizers yet. Read More . . .

tBR Columnist Nancy Zwiers: Brian Goldner Reminds Us: How Do We Want to be Remembered?

Our industry lost a giant this week. Brian Goldner, CEO of Hasbro, passed too soon at 58 and days later, we are still reeling. Many of us have taken to social media to express our sorrow and to share how we will remember him. Some knew him well, working alongside him day to day. Others interacted with him sporadically over time. Some simply saw him in his public role as an industry leader at industry and media events.

In combing through the countless tributes to Brian, I see some of the ways his business community remembers him. What emerges is a portrait of a truly inspiring human being, as the quotes below attest.

Inspiring in life, Brian continues to inspire…specifically, the impact he leaves behind inspires us all to re-examine the question: How do we want to be remembered?

Take this moment, review these quotes about Brian, and ask yourself, “How do I want to be remembered?”

Do I want to be remembered for what I accomplished?

“Instrumental in transforming the Company”

“Tireless advocate for the toy and play industry”

Do I want to be remembered for how I led? Read More . . .

Marc Rosenberg: Real Heroes Live On - a Tribute to Brian Goldner

In a text exchange just a couple of months ago, Brian said, “Life always reminds me of the Velveteen Rabbit. “When you’re tattered and your stuffing starts showing, you know you’re real.” While we had discussed his illness over the years, it was the first and only time he hinted that his time, like all of ours, is borrowed. Having been fortunate to catch his rising star from the beginning, I always imagined he would wind his way through a myriad of attacks like the superhero in any one of a million scenes he had helped curate, and he would dust himself off and smile walking away unscathed. But as Brian reminded us this week, life is all about the story, it has to grab you, move you through countless emotions and then, if it’s great, leave you screaming for more. Brian’s story did that and so much more.

Like so many, I was incredibly blessed to have minor part in the early scenes of his thriller. In 2000, Brian was coerced gently by Alan Hassenfeld to join Hasbro. While it was clear that Alan had a starring role with Brian’s name already on the script, he was initially brought in to run Tiger after our sale in 1998. Randy Rissman and Roger Shiffman,Tiger’s founders and my original mentors, were moving on to other things and Furby was still the rage with major new projects in the works. While it was to be a short scene with Brian living in Chicago, measured in months not years, to me it was still tremendous. Our kids went to day camp together and he and I started spending a lot of time together. He would talk of his ultimate plan to run Hasbro and how we would “Transform” the business into the biggest entertainment company the toy world had seen. Brian’s mantra then, and always, was “Dream Big and know nothing is impossible.” Read More . . .

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Financial & Legal News . . .

GOLIATH ACQUIRES ENDLESS GAMES. The privately held company adds Endless Games to its family of brands that has consistently grown through company acquisitions, such as the Pressman Toy Co. and Tucker Toys. “This acquisition provides an endless catalog of great games and puzzles that Goliath will add to its global portfolio,” says Jochanan Golad, CEO, Goliath. “This is Goliath’s fourth North American and eleventh global acquisition in the past seven years as we continue to expand and strengthen our position in the market.”

Hot holiday toys may not be as scarce as predicted. Good news for fretting parents: The doomsayers who've been sounding the alarm about 2021 holiday toy scarcities are being tempered by sanguine optimists. Why it matters: While shopping early is definitely a good idea, fears of empty shelves and online shortages are probably overblown, given how skilled the toy industry has grown at managing global supply...

Selfridges in talks about potential sale. Selfridges’ owners are said to be in talks with Qatar about a potential £4bn sale that would be a defining moment for the business. According to This is Money, sources claim the Qataris are not in exclusive talks and it is possible a rival bidder for Selfridges may yet be successful. However, if the deal comes to fruition, it would see the Middle Eastern state take ownership....

Azure Media merges with Havas Entertainment and bolsters team. The new Havas Entertainment agency will offer services across media, creative, content, data and eCommerce. Leading toys and games media agency Azure Media has merged with Havas Entertainment as the agency continues to evolve and extend its services to clients across media, creative, content, data and eCommerce.

(the above posted after October 15th)

Hasbro announced the passing of its longtime chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner. “Since joining the Company more than two decades ago, Brian has been the heart and soul of Hasbro. As a charismatic and passionate leader in both the play and entertainment industries, Brian’s work brought joy and laughter to children and families around the world,” said interim CEO Rich Stoddart. “His visionary leadership, kindness, and generosity made him beloved by the Hasbro community and everyone he touched. On behalf of the Hasbro family, we extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his wife, daughter, and entire family.”

The Nacelle Co. Acquires Marx Toys Brand. The Nacelle Co. has acquired the Marx Toys brand from Jay Horowitz of American Classic Toy and has plans to revamp and revitalize the company, its name, and some of its iconic properties. Immediate efforts include books and lifestyle products while film and TV projects loom on the horizon.

Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles to Operate 24/7. The Biden Administration has stepped in to address delays and congestion across the transportation supply chain. The administration and leadership from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union have announced that the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will begin operating 24/7.

EA in a messy fight over FIFA license, money. Last week EA hinted that it might be renaming its massively popular FIFA series. Now we know why. According to a new report by The New York Times, the International Federation of Association Football is asking the sports publishing giant to pay $1 billion for exclusive rights to the FIFA brand going forward.

Workers union objects to Activision Blizzard settlement as legal maelstrom rages on. The Communication Workers of America (CWA) union has objected to Activision Blizzard's attempts to settle a harassment lawsuit with the the U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) by creating an $18 million compensation fund. The EEOC sued the publisher "to correct unlawful employment practices based on sex...

Google countersues Epic for dodging Play Store developer fees. Google has filed a counter-lawsuit against Epic Games for its original "Project Liberty" stunt, where the company attempted to circumvent Play Store fees by having Android Fortnite players purchase in-app currency directly from Epic. This countersuit also repeatedly denies the claims made in Epic's original lawsuit against Google...

Congestion at Felixstowe, UK’s largest container port, reaches critical level. The congestion has reached the stage where the port’s management is seriously considering turning ships away. With only 10 weeks until Christmas, the UK’s largest container port Felixstowe is struggling to cope with the volume of cargo arriving. Reports suggest that the site has become severely congested, due in part to a shortage...

California will require large retailers to provide gender-neutral toy sections. California became the first state in the nation Saturday to adopt a law requiring large retail stores to provide gender-neutral toy sections under a bill signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The new law, which takes effect in 2024, says that retail stores with 500 or more employees must sell some toys and child-care products outside of areas...

Apple appeals injunction that would loosen App Store payment restrictions. Apple is appealing an injunction that would allow developers to add links to third-party payment options on the App Store. The injunction was the result of the Epic v. Apple lawsuit and was issued by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez-Rogers in a bid to increase competition and transparency on the mobile marketplace.

Dutch antitrust regulator finds Apple App Store payments anti-competitive. A Dutch antitrust authority has found Apple's in-app payment system to be anti-competitive for some developers, following an investigation into the firm's store policies. According to a report from Reuters, the The Netherlands' Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) launched an investigation into Apple's position in the market in 2019,

Chinese state media calls for closure of gaming restrictions. A state-owned newspaper in China has drawn attention to loopholes in the government's recently-introduced restrictions for online gaming and urged for them to be closed. Reuters cites an article in the People's Daily, the official newspaper of the Communist Party, that identifies methods by which children under 18

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Trends, Market Research Reports . . .

Out-of-stock warnings are up 172% from pre-pandemic levels at online retail (Insider) . . . . . . September 2021 NPD BookScan - Top 20 Author, Manga, and Superhero Graphic Novels . . . . . . Comic Store Publisher Market Shares - Q3 2021

(the above posted after October 15th)

September 2021 NPD BookScan - Top 20 Kids Graphic Novels . . . . . Toy prices up as much as 10 percent ahead of Christmas: trade group . . . . . . ASTRA’S insights: what specialty retailers can expect in Q4 . . . . . . 'As seen on TikTok' is the new 'As seen on TV' . . . . . China: Key price measure rises at fastest rate on record . . . . . Talking Shop, Sam Giltrow caught up with Toys N Tuck, Osborne Sports & Toys, Roys Toys and Toys Galore . . . . . . September 2021 NPD BookScan - Top 20 Adult Graphic Novels . . . . . . Sports score big with European kids

Financial & Brokerage News . . .

Sony Pictures Sells Game Show Network’s Mobile Gaming Subsidiary To Scopely For $1B . . . . . ‘CoComelon’ Owner Moonbug Weighs Sale, IPO . . . . . IO Interactive reports record-breaking year driven by Hitman 3 . . . . . . Final Fantasy 14 surpasses 24m players, is series' most profitable game . . . . . . Perch acquires Gutter Games, makers of #1 Amazon UK game Beat That! . . . . . . Diamond acquires toy and video game grading company. Third deal in grading space in four months

Future Financial Reporting . . .

Mattel announced that it plans to release its third quarter 2021 financial results on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at approximately 4:05 p.m. ET. Following this, Mattel will host a conference call and webcast at 5:00 p.m. ET. The conference call will be webcast on Mattel's Investor Relations website, https://investors.mattel.com. To listen to the live call, log on to the website at least 10 minutes early to register, download and install any necessary audio software. An archive of the webcast will be available on the Company's website for 90 days and may be accessed beginning approximately two hours after the completion of the live call. A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time the evening of the call until Thursday, Oct 28, 2021 and may be accessed by dialing +1-404-537-3406. The passcode is 6941839.

Toyjobs has been the dominant recruiting

Stories, Comments & Advice . . .

Top 10 most iconic Barbie dolls of the 2000s. Were you a kid playing with Barbie in the early 2000s? If so, you’ll probably recognize some of these iconic dolls/lines from the decade. Hip 2 Be Square Barbie. ne of the last series of playline dolls to use the Twist n’ Turn body mold, the Hip 2 Be Square dolls stand out with their colorful geometric-print dresses and large rectangular earrings.

'Bizarre' doll discovered behind Oak Bay wall connected to former German toy designer. A song about exploring the Northwest Passage was playing over the construction site speaker when Will discovered something unexpected behind a wall that made him shriek. “But in excitement,” Will clarifies, before laughing. “Not eeek!” Will had uncovered many things during renovations before, including a licence plate...

How the hyper-violent Squid Game has crept into digital content targeting young children. The latest controversy to arise around Squid Game, which is rated MA15+ in Australia, relates to the interest it has sparked amongst young children. This includes warnings from an Australian school that children as young as six are recreating games featured in the dark and gory hit show. A council in Southern England recently sent...

Steve Cox of Keel Toys on why sustainability shouldn’t cost the earth. Keel Toys’ Keeleco plush range will be showcased in the Sustainability Activation at BLE in November. Keel Toys is participating in the BLE Sustainability Activation in partnership with Products of Change. BLE takes place in person from 17th-19th November 2021 at Excel London, and online 30th November – 1st December).

(the above posted after October 15th)

John Baulch, ToyWorld UK - Christmas Magic…it’s the Friday Blog!. The questions I have been asked most frequently in recent weeks (apart from whether Watford were right to sack our manager – we were) largely revolve around what’s happening with Toy Fair Season ’22. I am gradually piecing together the overall picture, so for anyone who is looking for clues, I am happy to share what I have uncovered thus far.

Selfridges unveils its top Christmas toys for 2021. The retailer says Christmas-related online searches are 225% ahead of forecast as excitement for the festive season builds and customers shop early. Selfridges has revealed its pick of the toys it believes will be topping kids’ letters to Father Christmas this year, with a number of household names making the list. The retailer’s predictions for the best-selling toys ...

Letter from America with Rick Derr. This month, Rick reveals lessons learned from the pandemic, looking at physical toy stores and how he believes their future is guaranteed. Rick opened the first Learning Express Toys franchise in the Chicago area in 1996, and then became a sub-franchiser, opening nine more stores. “Over the last decade or so, we all have questioned at one time or another whether physical brick...

Hamleys reveals its top toys list for Christmas 2021. Christmas 2020 came round in a year unlike any other, where lockdown effectively cancelled the festive season, resigning it to the realm of the virtual. So this year, we are celebrating the return of a “normal” Christmas period – and it is with that in mind that Hamleys has curated its gifting options.

Amazon UK reveals top ten toys for Christmas with Trending Machine. As it reveals its prediction for the top ten most desirable toys for this Christmas, Amazon.co.uk has announced it is taking a ‘Trending Machine’ around UK cities this week to dispense festive joy and free toys to passers-by and local hospitals.

How experiential tactics are ushering in a brick-and-mortar retail revival. Some good news for a change: Retail store openings are outpacing closures this year. After the pandemic dealt what appeared to be a death blow to brick-and-mortar retail in 2020, the sector is quickly recovering and talk of the “retail apocalypse” is largely in the rearview window. Much of this revival can be attributed to experiential retail tactics.

Industry insight: the power of play in educational development. UNICEF says that 1.6 billion kids worldwide were unable to attend school because of COVID-19-related restrictions. As the pandemic caused disruption to the traditional schooling system, teachers and parents have turned to alternate paths in order to engage kids in their daily education.

When will supply chains be back to normal? And how did things get so bad? Wondering why everything from cars and refrigerators to books and toys is in short supply? Blame the fouled-up supply chain that connects manufacturers around the world with the makers and assemblers of their component parts, as well as with the consumers and businesses that buy the finished goods.

Remembering the Toy Industry's Past . . .

Remember Fisher-Price's classic toy telephone? It's now a real working phone, and you can buy one. The toy company announced Tuesday it will launch a version of its Chatter Telephone capable of taking real phone calls. The phone is available for pre-order at BestBuy.com while supplies last for $60, about six times more than the toy, which normally sells for around $9.99. The toy phone connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth, allowing you to make and receive calls directly from the Chatter. Owners can also use Chatter as a speakerphone, and it's compatible with both iOS and Android. You also recharge it with a charging cable.

(The above posted after October 15th)

The James Bond “007” Game from Milton Bradley (1965). In 1965, Milton Bradley invited players to “enter the dangerous world of James Bond” with the release of the 007 game. The game combined strategy and chance. Two, three, or four players were placed in competing red or black teams depending on the colour of the letters, B-O-N-D, facing them. Once divided into the two camps, each team attempted to capture its opponent’s tiles over the course of several rounds. Numbered tiles labeled with either “007” or dots were placed into 16 windows on the board.

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Worldwide Licensing News . . .

Nintendo's Tiny Licensing Business Could Have a Big Future. Nintendo's (OTC: NTDOY) stock declined about 30% this year as investors fretted over its post-pandemic slowdown. The Japanese gaming giant's revenue rose 34% in fiscal 2020, which ended this March, as many people purchased Switch consoles and games throughout the pandemic. Unfortunately, Nintendo expects its revenue to decline 9% in fiscal 2021...

Goliath announces its new collaboration with industry heavyweight, Hasbro. Toy and game maker, Goliath, is thrilled to announce its newest licensing deal with global power player, Hasbro. Under these new licenses Goliath Australia & New Zealand will be showcasing some of the world's most popular kids brands in their own well-loved toys and products.

To celebrate the launch of the new LEGO Ideas Home Alone set, the LEGO Group is celebrating Kevins across the globe. The detailed set is based on the house from the original Home Alone movie and was designed by LEGO fan Alex Storozhuk from Ukraine, via the LEGO Ideas platform. In addition to the house, the set includes a LEGO minifigure version of Home Alone icon Kevin McCallister, plus four other minifigure....

VP Racing Fuels and Mattel have struck a licensing agreement for the Hot Wheels brand. Under the agreement, Mattel will produce a line of diecast cars and trucks displaying VP Racing Fuels brand names and logos. VP Racing’s licensing agency, Pacific Swell Brands, brokered the deal.“Hot Wheels is the most iconic brand of collectible toy cars and trucks in the world,” said VP Racing director of brand mgt, Bob Merz.

JAKKS's costuming division, Disguise, is expanding its licensing partnership with Disney throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.In a multi-year agreement, Disguise will produce dress-up items, costumes, and costume accessories for various Disney brands in EMEA, starting spring 2022. A North American costume partner for Disney for over 30 years, this marks the first time Disguise holds Disney costuming...

Mattel has secured the global licensing rights (excluding Japan) to create a toy line for Disney and Pixar’s Lightyear. Lightyear, the origin story of the Buzz Lightyear character from the Toy Story franchise, is slated for theatrical release in June 2022. Mattel’s line of action figures, playsets, role play, vehicles, preschool, games, plush, value figures, novelty, and more is expected to hit shelves that same month. “At Mattel....

Barbie gives L’Oréal Professionnel’s Steampod a limited-edition pink makeover. Fans of L’Oréal Professionnel’s innovative Steampod hair styler will be thrilled to know that a new, limited-edition pink Barbie model is set to the hit the shelves this month. With over 2.2 million followers on her @BarbieStyle Instagram page, Mattel’s Barbie is a recognised fashion influencer. So when L’Oréal Professionnel was looking for a fresh …

(the above posted after October 15th)

WowWee is launching a line of collectible dolls inspired by hit Roblox game Twilight Daycare. The toymaker’s partnership with Gamefam, the LA-based developer/publisher of 20 games for Roblox, marks a significant switch in its efforts to take advantage of the wildly popular platform. WowWee initially viewed Roblox primarily as a marketing channel for its own brands, but VP of brand developmt & creative strategy Sydney...

Corus Ent’s Nelvana is looking to reach millennial and GenZ fans of Max & Ruby via a new licensed apparel line from Juniper Creates. The Max & Ruby Remix Collection consists of tops, overalls, oversized fashion earrings, and a Max & Ruby blanket sweater. “Millennials and Gen Zs all over the world have fond memories of watching Max & Ruby as preschoolers,” said head of Nelvana Enterprises Mellany Masterson.

Several broadcasters have picked up a new 2D-animated adaptation of The Little Prince from Paris-based production company ON kids & family and the Saint-Exupéry-d’Agay Estate. Currently in production, The Little Prince and Friends will air on France Télévisions, WDR (Germany), RAI (Italy) and Gloob (Brazil) in 2023. The 52 x 11-min series is aimed at four- to 7-yr-olds and will see the Little Prince set off on a spaceship...

Peacock, Hulu pick up another Dragon spinoff. Set in modern times, DreamWorks Animation's Dragons: The Nine Realms will drop simultaneously on both streamers on December 23. It’s set in a scientific research facility, where a group of outsider kids discovers the truth about where dragons have been hiding all these years.

Spin Master Champions New League of Legends Collection. Spin Master launches the first of its collection as the global master toy licensee for Riot Games’ League of Legends, the most-played PC game in the world. A mainstay in the multiplayer online battle arena, League of Legends is a team-based, strategy game where two teams of five powerful champions face off to conquer the other’s base.

Tilting Point and Carry1st team up to publish SpongeBob: Krusty Cook-Off in Africa. Leading free-to-play games publisher Tilting Point and Carry1st, Africa’s number-one mobile publisher, have partnered to bring the award-winning game SpongeBob: Krusty Cook-Off to the entire African continent.

Sakar International and Sega partner for Sonic the Hedgehog wheeled goods. The ‘Blue Blur’ is spinning into the wheeled goods category thanks to a partnership between Sakar International and Sega. As part of Sonic the Hedgehog’s 30th anniversary, the new deal will bring hoverboards, scooters, four-wheel ride-ons, and both manual and electric skateboards and scooters.

The world of ‘Ghostopia’ expands with The Addams Family. Supersocial, a developer and publisher of experiences for the metaverse, has announced the next phase of its multiplayer RPG “Ghostopia,” available exclusively on Roblox. As part of the game’s launch, “Ghostopia” will feature a special partnership with MGM and United Artists Releasing's 3D animated film, “The Addams Family 2,” allowing players ...

Sanrio partners with Player 2 to grow licensing revenue in the global gaming market. Gaming and esports marketing agency Player 2 and Japanese company Sanrio have announced a partnership that will see the two collaborating to grow gaming-related licensing partnerships for lifestyle brands Hello Kitty, Hello Kitty and Friends, Gudetama, and Aggretsuko across the EMEA, India, and Oceania regions.

2001: A Space Odyssey ULTIMATES! figures from Super7. Super7 has a new 2001: A Space Odyssey collection of figures that lets fans of the iconic Stanley Kubrick film proudly express their fondness for the film. Released in 1968, the feature film took viewers on a journey rich with intrigue. The sparse dialogue, commanding score, and trippy production deepened the mystery of the film and earned an enthusiastic fan base.

Weave tales of Hogwarts with 'Rory's Story Cubes: Harry Potter'. Asmodee USA will release Rory's Story Cubes: Harry Potter, a storytelling game by Zygomatic, on November 26. The new Harry Potter version Rory's Story Cubes allows players tell stories based in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. These cubes references iconic characters from the series, and are a great way to exercise the imagination.

Disguise expands adaptive costume line. Disguise, the costume division of Jakks Pacific, expanded its line of licensed wheelchair cover sets and accessible costumes for Halloween this year. This follows last year’s global launch of licensed adaptive wheelchair covers. The line now features adaptive jumpsuits and dresses, in addition to new wheelchair wraps available in six popular licenses.

Mattel, Tesla collaborate on Mega X Cybertruck project. Following the success of their Hot Wheels collaborations, Mattel and Tesla have teamed up for the first-ever buildable Cybertruck model. The MEGA x Cybertruck features more than 3,000 pieces and includes authentic details, like the sharp-angled exoskeleton, adjustable air suspension, functional tonneau cover, a folding tailgate, and armor glass windows.

People . . .

“Power Kid Podcast,” host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Blinger creator Angie Cella to the show. In 2014, Cella devised an invention that lets kids easily add sparkle to their hair. Through further development, Kickstarter campaigns, and self-funded experimentation, Cella scored a deal with Wicked Cool Toys at a Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment Empowerment Day.

Succession at Scholastic Seemed to Be a Shock, Even to the New Chairwoman. The powerhouse children’s publisher, known for Harry Potter, had been passed from father to son until Iole Lucchese, a top executive, was given control. Being handed control of the company, which is valued at $1.2 billion, has made Ms. Lucchese, 55, one of the most powerful women in book publishing, and the stock provides her...

Kevin Clark exits Netflix. One year after joining the SVOD as director of preschool animation, Clark has left. Clark started in the role last September and was based in LA, reporting to head of preschool Heather Tilert. “Kevin is an incredibly talented thought leader in the space, and we wish him all the very best in his next chapter,” Tilert told Kidscreen in a statement.

Herschend Entertainment Studios has hired Sarah Maizes as senior director of development and executive producer. In the newly created role, which she started on September 13, Maizes is expanding the Georgia-based company’s development and production slate with a focus on franchises. Maizes previously served as VP of television for The Jim Henson Company, but she left at the end of last year.

(the above content posted after October 15th)

ZAG promotes Lisa K Foster to SVP, Licensing, North America. As award-winning global independent animation studio ZAG continues to build a robust consumer products programme for flagship brand Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir, the company is elevating North American Licensing VP Lisa K Foster to the role of Senior Vice President, Licensing, to manage the company’s portfolio of brands under...

Jason Badal has been named VP and GM of Disney+ in Canada. The role will leverage Badal’s expertise in consumer products and leading multinational companies, but no additional details about his portfolio of responsibilities were available at press time. Badal announced on LinkedIn that he had departed Shopify on September 24, after...

Flat River Group promoted Dan Myers to vice president of purchasing and business development. Myers joined the company in March from WeCool Toys where he served as global sales director. Flat River is a a distributor of toys, games, and other consumer products in addition to serving as a full-service provider of warehousing and fulfillment for a variety of e-commerce retailers, is strengthening its buying team.

Hasbro, Inc. Chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner is taking a medical leave of absence, effective immediately with Rich Stoddart appointed interim CEO. The news follows last year’s disclosure that Goldner had been undergoing continued medical care following treatment for cancer in 2014. “After careful consideration, I have decided to take a medical leave to focus on my health,” Goldner says. “I feel confident knowing ...

Hasbro, today announced the hiring of Carrie Ratner as Senior Vice President, Global Corporate Communications. In this strategic role, Ratner will be responsible for leading Hasbro’s external and internal corporate communications and storytelling strategy with Hasbro’s brands and purpose at the center. She will direct Hasbro’s corporate communications team and will assume responsibility for Hasbro’s external media...

Adventerra Games North America names France Mer as director of marketing. France Mer has joined Adventerra Games North America as the newly created position of director of marketing. Mer will lead and implement brand marketing strategies across digital and traditional channels for Adventerra’s line of educational games.

TGGplayer adds board member. TCGplayer has added Savneet Singh, CEO of PAR Technology Corporation, to its Board of Directors, the company announced. PAR Technology, a publicly traded company, is one of the largest providers of point-of-sale software for restaurants. Originally a board member, Singh took over as CEO in Jan 2019 and is leading a transition from a traditional hardware and software business to ...

Innovation First International (UK) appoints Alison Ferguson as Marketing Manager. Innovation First Int'l (UK) has appointed Alison Ferguson as its new Marketing Manager. Alison officially joined the company on Monday 4 Oct and will be responsible for the marketing and PR activity across Innovation First’s three brands – HEXBUG, VEX Robotics and Rack Solutions – with a focus on driving consumer awareness ...

PlayStation Studios names former Apple Arcade leader as head of mobile. PlayStation Studios has quietly named former Apple Arcade head of content Nicola Sebastiani as its new head of mobile. As spotted by PushSquare, an update to Sebastiani's Linkedin profile indicates the hire was made back in July.

IMC Toys boosts UK sales team. Leading toy company IMC Toys has promoted Lisa Cox to UK Sales Manager and appointed Kieran Smith as National Account Manager. The boost to the UK team reflects the company’s success over the last 18 months, and its ambitious growth plans for the future. The appointments expand the IMC Toys team to 13 in the UK.

Companies, Brands . . .

Hasbro reveals star-studded line-up for its Hasbro Pulse Con fan event. Hasbro has released the official programming schedule of experiences for Hasbro Pulse Con 2021, a two-day, free livestream event featuring fan-favourite celebrity guests and must-see music appearances. Featured guest talent includes Patton Oswalt, Matthew Lillard (Scream, Scooby-Doo), select cast members of the upcoming film Ghostbusters...

Dubit launches eSports program. The Metaverse Gaming League will create sponsored events in platforms like Roblox, while also helping the company gain new insights into kids. Companies and brands including L.O.L. Surprise! and GoNoodle are able to sponsor the Roblox or branded game streams, while players compete to earn big prizes. The events are streamed on Twitch, YouTube and TikTok, and after the...

Spin Master has established Spin Master Ventures, which aims to use strategic minority investments to help grow each of the company’s 3 creative centers — toys, entertainment, and digital games. “We’ve always stayed true to our entrepreneurial DNA based on innovation, openness to ideas, partnerships, and pushing boundaries,” said Ronnen Harary, Spin Master’s co-founder and board chair. “The pace of innovation...

Disney revises release schedule for upcoming movies. Disney claims that the scheduling overhaul is related to production matters rather than box office returns. Delays have been announced to the release dates for Doctor Strange 2, Thor 4, the Black Panther Sequel and Indiana Jones 5.

Disney has moved Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness from March 25th to May 6th next year, Thor: Love and Thunder from....

Camp opens seventh store on former Toys R Us site. The US toy retailer, which offers ‘family experiences’, says it plans to double its store count every year. Experiential retailer Camp has opened its seventh store in the previous Toys R Us premises in Paramus, New Jersey, one of the US East Coast’s largest malls.

Spin Master Makes a Splash With New Mermaid High Fashion Dolls and Content Series. Spin Master makes a splash with the debut of Mermaid High, a collection of fashion dolls with animated digital content and a vlog-style series. Each of the fashion dolls, Searra, Finly, Oceanna, and Mari, come with their own removable premium fabric mermaid tails, unique outfits, and six accessories from sunglasses and beach...

Animal Planet roars into Burger King with King Jr Meal toys. Animal Planet, a member of the Discovery Inc family of brands, today announced its collaboration with Burger King on a collection of paper-based King Jr meal toys and activities in an effort to inspire young animal lovers around the world as well as reduce the kids’ meal plastic footprint. Animal Planet fans can find the

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has recognized Mattel with a 2021 Leadership Award for its use of FSC-certified products. In 2020, Mattel achieved 97% recycled or FSC-certified content in the paper and wood fiber used in its products and packaging — exceeding its goal of 95%. The sourcing of its materials was validated by the nonprofit Rainforest Alliance. “Responsible and sustainable sourcing is a critical component ...

(the above posted after tBR sent on October 15th)

Why Peacock put a kids spin on The Tonight Show. The Kids Tonight Show combines the popularity of Jimmy Fallon's series with added zaniness to attract kids and families, says the show's EP. Hoping to attract a younger audience to its streaming platform, NBCUniversal is aging down late-night talk show The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The Kids Tonight Show premiered exclusively on Peacock on October 14, and new ...

Disney+ focuses on anime with APAC slate. Disney is mounting a major new campaign in the Asia-Pacific streaming wars, announcing 18 new local-language originals that will be produced in the next year for its SVODs in the region. The new projects hail from Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, China and Australia, spanning series and films in genres including anime, comedy, fantasy, drama, science-fiction, documentaries...

Build the Ship of Dreams with the Massive LEGO Titanic. One of the most iconic vessels of all time is joining the LEGO fleet. The LEGO Group created an authentic, 9,090-piece replica of the RMS Titanic, the legendary ship that sank during its maiden voyage in April 1912. Geared toward the growing market of adult builders and collectors, the massive model measures 52-inches in length and contains several sections that....

Mattel's Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part 2 Brings Savage He-Man to the Action Aisle. After leaving fans — and the fate of He-Man — hanging with a cliffhanger ending in July, Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part 2 will debut on Netflix on November 23. Alongside the series comes some new additions to the growing Masterverse line of action figures.

ViacomCBS, RECUR Team up for Fan-based NFT Platform. Soon, you’ll be able to collect and trade some of your favorite TV shows as NFTs. ViacomCBS Inc. has partnered with leading non-fungible token (NFT) company RECUR to create a platform in which fans can buy, collect, and trade NFTs as digital products. Fans of ViacomCBS’ portfolio of brands will have access to the company’s catalog, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central...

Jazwares and its subsidiary Kellytoy have surpassed 100 million Squishmallow plushes sold, and they’re marking the milestone with a limited edition special release. Hans, one of the core characters from the original Squishmallows squad, returns as two different 16-inch styles this week. “Hans with Golden Details” is the classic brown Squishmallow with gold trim, top hat, and bowtie.

Walmart has introduced a Netflix hub on Walmart.com, which now serves as the largest dedicated online shopping platform for Netflix merchandise in the U.S. It also marks Netflix’s first digital storefront with a national retailer. Fans who visit the hub will be able to find toys, game, collectibles, apparel, stationery, bedding, and more consumer products available for purchase, based on Netflix’s top properties....

Toy World brings you an exclusive Barbie Special, in conjunction with Mattel’s Barbie Licensing team, with highlights from the yr so far and a peek into the future. As the brand records 5 years of year-on-year growth, 2021 looks set to be another record-breaking period. The Consumer Products range is enjoying the same success, seeing double digit growth yr to date. Helen Genia, Consumer Products Licensing Leader...

Going above and beyond with Octonauts. Silvergate’s Octonauts: Above & Beyond arrived on Netflix on 7th September, introducing audiences to new characters, new vehicles and new environments as the intrepid crew takes its adventures onto land for the first time ever. A week after the release, Toy World spoke to Lisa Macdonald, senior vice president CP and TV Sales, North America, EMEA, Aus/NZ, Silvergate Media...

Smyths Toys Superstores has unveiled a magical new board games campaign in collaboration with Hasbro Gaming. The creative campaign captures all the fun of iconic Hasbro board games as Smyths Toys’ beloved brand character, Oscar, gets competitive. The story follows Oscar on a journey through a world of larger-than-life Hasbro board games, animated by McCann Manchester Animation House.

Lego addresses gender stereotypes. Informed by its latest research, The Lego Group launches its ‘Ready for Girls’ campaign to celebrate girls who rebuild the story of old-fashioned gender norms. New research commissioned by The Lego Group reveals that while today’s girls feel increasingly confident in engaging in all types of play and creative activities, they remain held back by society’s ingrained gender stereotypes...

TIME Celebrates International Day of the Girl with LEGO and Barbie. On Oct. 11, TIME will celebrate International Day of the Girl by launching two exciting partnerships with LEGO and Mattel’s Barbie. Red Border by TIME (TIME’s branded content studio) has partnered with LEGO for International Day of the Girl to highlight inspirational girls and young women who are doing amazing things in the world.

Target and the LEGO Group expand partnership with limited-edition lifestyle collection, just in time for the holidays. Target Corporation today announced its limited-edition collection with the LEGO Group, featuring a lifestyle assortment that goes well beyond the company's iconic brick, with joyful, colorful items across home goods, pets, toys and gifts, as well as apparel and accessories for the entire family.

Carrera Revell of Americas introduces Slot Car Set that works with major building, construction brands. Slot car racing is hot, and this year Carrera Revell of Americas has a new product innovation that brings the action together with another hot play pattern: building and construction. Carrera GO!!! Build ‘N Race Slot Car Race Track Sets include a 1:43-scale electric slot car race track and two customizable vehicles...

TH3rd World Studios will release 'The Stuff Of Legend: The Boardgame'. Th3rd World Studios will release The Stuff of Legend: The Boardgame, a new game based on the New York Times Bestselling GN, into retail in 2022 after its successful Kickstarter campaign. This three to six player cooperative board game is based on Th3rd World Studios' 2009 GN about a Boogeyman that kidnaps a boy from his bedroom in 1944 Brooklyn.

Wizards of the Coast announces changes to 'Innistrad: Crimson Vow' prereleases. Wizards of the Coast announced changes to Innistrad: Crimson Vow prereleases, due to shipping and production delays. After changing the prerelease prize support from Draft Boosters to Set Boosters for Innistrad: Midnight Hunt. WotC was forced to reverse course due shipping and production issues.

Mattel unveils new He-Man figure. While fans will soon have the chance to see the savage version of He-Man on Netflix for “Masters of the Universe: Revelation” in a showdown against Skelegod, they will also have the opportunity to bring He-Man home in a completely unique form to add to their collection. Joined by Orko, Eternia’s most powerful sorcerer, Savage He-Man represents the latest in the Masters of the Universe...

Playmonster’s Drone Home takes flight around the globe. After a successful launch in 2020, PlayMonster‘s Drone Home game is landing in new markets around the world. The first-ever game to feature a real drone launched to massive acclaim in the U.S., Canada, and the UK, and is now available in more than 20 countries. “This is one of the fastest expansions we’ve seen among all PlayMonster games,” says Richard Gill, vice president International at PlayMonster.

Video Games, Gaming Hardware & Game Development News . . .

EA is removing ex-Raiders coach Jon Gruden from Madden after email scandal. He’ll be replaced with a ‘generic likeness’. Electronic Arts is removing former Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden from Madden NFL 22 following reports that he had used racist, homophobic, and misogynistic language in emails. Gruden resigned as the Raiders’ coach soon after the emails came to light.

Spelunky world record holder busted as a cheater. A player by the name of BarryMode has, for the last eight years, held the world record for a speedrun through Spelunky. Not anymore, though, after fans discovered that he’d cheated, with the evidence clearly visible in the video he’d recorded of the run.

Netflix boss doubles down on Dave Chappelle's transphobia in embarrassing email. Dragging 'first party shooter games' into this is a very odd thing to do, as employees plan a 'virtual walkout'. Dave Chappelle’s latest comedy special, The Closer, contains some very sad, very harmful anti-trans comments. Faced with widespread criticism over his company’s decision to bankroll and air the special, Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos has decided to email the entire company twice, and in doing so made things worse.

Paradox staff accuse management of enabling toxic environment. In two separate reports, current and former Paradox Interactive employees are claiming that Paradox's senior management have tolerated a culture of sexual harassment. In a particularly egregious case, the company allegedly employed an executive accused of sexual harassment at a prior job in 2016, and only released him from the company in 2021.

Sorry, no more telling your League of Legends opponents they suck. Riot announced today it will disable chat between opposing League of Legends teams in the game’s next update as a way of cutting down on the toxicity that’s often present in these conversations. “While all chat can be the source of fun social interaction between teams as well as some good-hearted banter, right now negative interactions outweigh the positives,” the development team explained in an official blog post.

The Grand Theft Auto trilogy is getting remastered for PC and consoles, including Nintendo Switch. After several rumors, Rockstar Games has confirmed that Grand Theft Auto III, Vice City, and San Andreas are each getting HD remasters. They’ll be released in a package called Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition.

US gaming has lost half of the audience gains it made in 2020 - NPD. It's well established that more people started playing games when the pandemic hit, but a new report from the NPD Group suggests a chunk of those new gamers have moved on. According to the NPD's 2021 Evolution of Entertainment report, 2020 saw the number of Americans playing games jump from 73% to 79%. H

Toy Safety & Counterfeit Related Articles . . .

A new study warns that toxic chemicals in popular baby toys may impair children’s brain development. TOXIC chemicals found in plastic toys and electronic gadgets can harm children’s brain development, a study found. Exposure to even low levels of organophosphate esters (OPEs), designed to make products fire-proof, may harm youngsters’ IQ, attention and memory.

Tulsa police warn of using 'Gel Shooters' after Union shooting incident. Tulsa police are urging kids to be careful with any toy that might resemble a gun.This comes after a shooting involving a toy that shoots gel projectiles was used Tuesday afternoon at Union Public Schools. Police said that two Union High School students shot the gel projectiles from a car.

Peggy brown PBCC Bloom ReportAd 2021 540

Highlighted Press Releases . . .

PASS THE BROCCOLI, PLEASE! ECOLOGIC MEMORY GAME ENTICES EVEN PICKY EATERS TO CHOOSE SEASONAL PRODUCE (AND SAVE OUR PLANET) Eating in Season Hits Shelves Now With Five Int’l & U.S. Awards For Adventerra Games’ Swiss-based Company That Empowers Children Through Play. – What’s a July picnic without corn on the cob or a Thanksgiving meal without pumpkin pie? Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only delicious but make a healthy diet and, more importantly, help the environment. These big concepts are tucked into Eating In Season ($14.99), an innovative ecologic memory game for preschoolers. Before hitting the store shelves this week, the sweetly illustrated game has caught the eye of Toy Industries of Europe (TIE) and American toy judges with a mantle full of accolades.

HESS TOY TRUCK READY FOR TAKEOFF OCTOBER 18 WITH AN EARLIER THAN EVER HOLIDAY BUY. Cargo Plane & Jet Wins A Fleet Of Honors Including Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum, Mom’s Choice Gold, Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide, National Parenting Center Holiday Seal of Approval. New York, NY (October 18, 2021) – The 2021 Hess Cargo Plane and Jet becomes available for purchase at 10 am EDT on Monday, October 18 exclusively at HessToyTruck.com for $39.99 with free standard shipping* and Energizer® batteries included. Across the country, families gleefully await this annual purchase as a treasured holiday tradition.

(the above added after October 15th)

YOU’LL NEVER HEAR “WE’RE BORED” WHEN YOU MAKE THEIR DAY WITH MAKE-A-FORT KITS. Durable and Reusable Explorer Kit Will Stand Up To Playtime. (And Save The Couch Cushions For You!) – Raise your hand if you’ve ever positioned the couch pillows on the floor to become walls topped by a roof of blankets. Suddenly there’s a secret entrance to crawl through. There’s something magical about an indoor fort that brings joy to every child. Take that thought and ratchet it up a notch with Make-A-Fort Explorer Kits at https://www.makeafort.fun.

News from Associations, Trade Shows, Awards, Events & Festivals . . .

Spielwarenmesse highlights sustainability with Toys go Green area. The Toys go Green area will host four themed ‘islands’, each offering visitors an insight into the materials and innovation that go into sustainable toys. With sustainability remaining a significant and much-discussed topic worldwide, Spielwarenmesse’s 13-member strong International TrendCommittee has identified it as a ‘mega trend’ ...

MIPCOM news you can use. The deals are flowing in Cannes this week, including plenty of acquisitions, Superprod's first deal with Nick International and Atlantyca's foray into live action. MIPCOM and MIP Junior are in full swing this week, and industry news is coming in steadily as companies reconnect in person and online. Check out this Kidscreen roundup of all the hot deals happening at market, and shows...

The Toy Association and Clamour‘s “Best of Holiday 2021″ Influencer Choice List is here. Highlighting top toys and games chosen by influencers in the Clamour network, the list will help families complete their holiday shopping early this year amid global supply chain bottlenecks and toy shortages.

UK parenting site MadeForMums has announced the winners of the MadeForMums Toy Award 2021, as judged by kids, recommended by parents and approved by experts. Ranging from a £3.99 fidget toy to a £300 play set, this year’s winners include toys from well known brands such as Barbie, Thomas & Friends, Peppa Pig, CoComelon, Bluey, Playmobil and L.O.L! Surprise.

30 Years SAZ – A Success Story! In 1991, twelve game designers founded the Game Designers Association (SAZ). In the following 30 years, it has become a powerful interest group with 550 members from 21 countries, which also has a political impact. Its successes are impressive. Today, game designers have a stronger position vis-à-vis publishers and can act with greater confidence.

Toy World spoke to Anna Knight, VP Licensing, Informa Markets, about Brand Licensing Europe’s much anticipated return to Excel

London from 17th-19th Nov., which will see the licensing industry gather under one roof again for the first time in a very long time. Anna told us that the team is really excited to welcome everyone back: “It will have been two years since BLE was last held in-person and it’ll be the first time...

Calling All Whizkids! People Of Play’s Annual Young Inventor Challenge Kicks Off. The Young Inventor Challenge is blasting off 2021 with their newly awarded STEM.org Accredited™ Educational Experience Trustmark, and several new winning categories. People of Play (POP) is gearing up to kickoff the annual Young Inventor Challenge (YIC). This year’s contest is sponsored by toy giants; Goliath, Mattel, HABA, New Key Pet, LLC, and Crazy Aaron’s. The YIC provides an outlet for young inventors to create, present and connect with toy industry professionals to receive professional critiques and guidance.

RIP - Rest in Play - Remembering Those that have Passed . . . If you know of a colleague's passing, please send us information so we may share with our colleagues. Archives can be found HERE.

Tom Morey - Boogie Board Inventor Dies at 86: 'His Simple Gift…Will Be His Joyous, Lasting, Legacy' Tom Morey, an innovator whose love of surfing inspired the best-selling Boogie Board, died on Thursday in California. Even before inventing the Boogie Board in 1971, Morey was a surfing pioneer. He created the first professional surfing contest, the Invitational Nose Riding Championships, as well as a number of surfboard innovations, including the first polypropylene fin, per the California Surf Museum. Morey's most famous creation came about in 1971 when he cut a piece of surfboard foam in half and covered it in newspaper, reported The Washington Post. "The first thing that happens, I feel the ocean," he previously said of the experience of his first ride to The Orange County Register. "You don't get to feel the contour of the ocean until you get on a Boogie Board." He recalled thinking at the time, "This can really be something; this thing can really be something." The creation was originally called SNAKE — which stood for "Side, Navel, Arm, Knee and Elbow" — but Morey eventually decided on the name Boogie Board, a nod to his love of jazz, reported The Orange County Register. As for his early pricing, the initial ad in Surfer Magazine listed the boards as costing $37, a number he picked because of his age at the time, per the newspaper. "That single device introduced more people to the joy of waveriding than any other person in the world," Kempton wrote in the California Surfing Museum's tribute to Morey. "His simple gift — a design that allowed anyone from paraplegics to Pipeline pros to boogie their brains out on a wave — will be his joyous, lasting, legacy." He went on to sell the creation and its trademark to Wham O in 1977, although he did not earn much money from the deal, according to The Washington Post.

Brian Goldner - Oct. 12th-- It is with deep and profound sadness that Hasbro announces the passing of beloved leader and longtime Chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner.

Rich Stoddart, Interim CEO, said “Since joining the Company more than two decades ago, Brian has been the heart and soul of Hasbro. As a charismatic and passionate leader in both the play and entertainment industries, Brian’s work brought joy and laughter to children and families around the world. His visionary leadership, kindness, and generosity made him beloved by the Hasbro community and everyone he touched. On behalf of the Hasbro family, we extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his wife, daughter, and entire family.”

Mr. Goldner, 58, joined Hasbro in 2000 and was quickly recognized as a visionary in the industry. He was appointed CEO in 2008 and became Chairman of the Board in 2015. He was instrumental in transforming the Company into a global play and entertainment leader, architecting a strategic Brand Blueprint to create the world’s best play and storytelling experiences. Through his tireless work ethic and unwavering focus, he expanded the Company beyond toys and games into television, movies, digital gaming and beyond, to ensure Hasbro’s iconic brands reached every consumer. The culmination of his pioneering strategy was the 2019 acquisition of independent entertainment studio eOne. Mr. Goldner served on the Board of Directors of ViacomCBS and was the Chair of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Goldner and his wife Barbara were passionate advocates for improving systems of care for vulnerable members of society.

Edward M. Philip, Lead Independent Director of Hasbro’s Board of Directors, said “Brian’s passing is a tremendous loss for Hasbro and the world. Brian was universally admired and respected in the industry, and throughout his over twenty years at Hasbro, his inspiring leadership and exuberance left an indelible mark on everything and everyone he touched. A mentor and friend to so many, his passion and creativity took Hasbro to new heights. Our love and thoughts are with his wife, daughter, and family during this extraordinarily sad time.”

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