Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
TAGIE nominations close tonight - we will leave the submissions portal open over the weekend for Bloom Report readers. Free, easy and fast to nominate! Submit yourself or a colleague! The TAGIE Committee is looking for the most innovative designers, retailers, suppliers, PR and marketers and inventors of the year. Here are the fun photos from the 2023 TAGIE Awards.
In news we have two compelling feature stories. While the stories are different, they both speak to persistence, perseverance and love of play.
The fun photo of the Mattel team at the TAGIE Awards. In the photo is Dave Harris, a longtime POP Advisory Board member. He is leaving Mattel and our industry (but does anyone ever really leave?) and we will miss him. He was involved in everything we do from planning the conferences, to hosting POP Pub events during the Pandemic and being a judge and mentor in our Young Inventor Challenge. The kids loved him. We will miss him! Thank you, Dave!
Register for POP Week!
Connect, pitch and learn at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference,
Celebrate colleagues at the TAGIEs
Encourage a creative kid to enter the Young Inventor Challenge
Meet consumers, influencers and trade in your Chicago Toy & Game Fair booth
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Mary
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"I go to work 6 days a week and magic happens! On day 7 I read the Bloom Report." 😁 - Rick Derr, Learning Express
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"Tell me you're in the toy industry without telling me you're in the toy industry... Friday Morning = a cup-a-Joe and the Bloom Report!" -Tim Walsh The Playmakers
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"I don't know anyone in the industry that doesn't read the Bloom Report." -Ken Lewis, President, 4Kidz, Inc.
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"I am a long-time reader and champion of the Bloom Report. The quantity of quality articles on so many different aspects of our industry is unmatched and I regularly share and discuss them with my management team as an important business tool." - Jim Engle, President & Founder, Little Kids Inc.
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Person of the Week - Nextoy's Robert Fuhrer
Yair's 10 Year Overnight Success - Goliath's Power Saber
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In an exciting new venture, Goliath Toys & Games, in partnership with Nextoy, has introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the toy industry—the Power Saber. This revolutionary product is the world's first automatic retractable and extendable saber, a technological marvel years in the making. “The world's greatest toys are born from a passion to turn the impossible into reality; when that happens, you don't just create a fantastic toy—you create pure magic,” says Brian Weiss, President of Goliath North America and Head of Global Toys. “Continuing Goliath’s strategy to bring unique and meaningful products to market, the saber will cut through an incredibly crowded market.”
“After nearly five years of collaboration with Yair and his team, I am honored to help bring to market the most eagerly anticipated toy of all time—an automatic extending and retractable saber, with bright lights and exciting sound effects—through our partnership with Goliath,” says Robert Fuhrer, President of Nextoy. "We debuted the Power Saber at ComicCon and the lines were blocks long!" READ MORE...
Person of the Week: Learning Express's Melissa Palacios
Encourage Young People Struggling to Believe in their own Potential
What do you do in our industry?
I work for Learning Express Toys, specifically at the Lake Zurich location owned by Rick and Joanne Derr. I have the privilege of being a team associate and a buyer for the store. In our industry, I sell products to customers, build relationships with them, network with vendors and other people in the toy industry. I'm continually learning and growing in my role.
If you look back at yourself 10 years ago, is this where you thought you’d be? Where did you think you’d be? What changed? What went right?
Reflecting on the past 10 years, I never imagined to be where I am today. I certainly have faced many adversities but am grateful for them because they've shaped me into who I am today. Every negative situation faced helped build my values and perspective in life. Ten years ago, I probably imagined myself living in El Salvador with my grandparents. What changed was the opportunity that life and God gave me to start all over again. READ MORE...
People of the Week: Chris Byrne Interviews Matt Nuccio
Design Edge and Its Ongoing Success
In this episode, Chris talks to Matt Nuccio, president of Design Edge.
This full-service design, production, and marketing agency over its long history has been involved in groundbreaking innovation. From Tickle Me Elmo to POGS, to, yes, a very successful stick; the team has guided inventors and companies to exceptional successes.
Matt talks about design, innovation, AI, what’s needed to make a (hopeful) hit, and much more.
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
"Finish your food son, there are hippos out there who are hungry hungry."
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to the person who wishes to be anonymous for the funny cartoon this week!
Memorable Quotes: “When you're good at something, you'll tell everyone. When you're great at something, they'll tell you." - Walter Payton
Toy Industry Word of Day: On the Water - If you can think of a toy/game industry word not in our POPDictionary, add it and we will connect it to you POP profile, feature it here in an upcoming week and on POP's homepage!
People celebrating birthdays this week - Happy Birthday!
Mike Sorrenti, Kristen Mott, Mary Lenehan, Ken Johnson, Philip Bloom and Tami Murphy
Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary
Financial and Legal
The Toy Association™ and People of Play™ Announce Merger. Association Elevates its Focus on Creativity, Innovation & Consumer Engagement
for the Toy Industry. Mary Couzin, founder of People of Play, will be joining the senior leadership team at the Association. Couzin will be responsible for guiding the future and growth of this new addition to the Association, effective immediately.
Basic Fun! will be able to stay in business after securing US$50 million in debtor-in-possession financing from asset management firm Great Rock Capital. This news comes just one month after the Florida-based company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and Basic Fun! will use the funds to support ongoing business operations while it restructures for future growth opportunities, says Great Rock CEO Stuart Armstrong.
Barbie to move into El Segundo office. Mattel bought the 168,000-square-foot building at 2160 East Grand Avenue for $59 million, or $351 a square foot, according to property records and financial filings. No loan was recorded in connection with the acquisition, making it likely the Barbie manufacturer paid in cash.
Google Lost This Round of Monopoly. A federal judge ruled yesterday that Google violated federal antitrust laws to hold a monopoly on online search and search advertising. The Justice Department and a number of states sued Google in 2020 over allegations that it pays billions of dollars to companies, like Apple and Samsung, to be the dominant search engine on smartphones.
In Win for Studios, Mattel Prevails in $46 Million Suit Filed by Producer Over Allegation of Stolen Reality Show. The verdict follows a 2½-month civil trial in Santa Monica that pitted the “Lone Survivor” producer against the company whose intellectual property spawned the Hollywood blockbuster “Barbie.” In a crushing blow, the 12-member jury shot down Herrick’s claims of breach of an implied contract...
China’s video game regulator has approved another 15 foreign-developed titles for the local market, bringing this year’s total to 75, with domestic tech giants Tencent Holdings and NetEase securing licenses for some big games. Tencent secured approval to release Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six, one of the most popular tactical shooter games, and role-playing game Paper Mario: The Origami King for the Nintendo Switch...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated August 2nd ***
SAG-AFTRA’s striking video game performers have chosen WB Games in Burbank, California as the site of their first picket line, which is expected to start tomorrow. Union officials sent word instructing its members to cease providing services and performing work for companies covered by the Interactive Media Agreement, Interactive Localization Agreement and Interactive Low Budget Agreement...
The copyright infringement case between Squishmallows and Build-A-Bear Workshop’s Skoosherz brand shows no signs of settling down anytime soon. In the most recent update, a US judge has denied Build-A-Bear’s attempt to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Kelly Toys, the Jazwares-owned company behind the top-selling Squishmallow brand.
Layoffs are underway at Disney Entertainment Television on Wednesday. Roughly 140 people are affected, representing about 2% of the total DET workforce. National Geographic is the hardest-hit brand with about 60 layoffs, or some 13% of its staff. Other significantly impacted divisions include the ABC Owned Television Stations, Freeform, the operational side of the Disney linear entertainment networks...
Following a unanimous vote, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a Decision and Order against Amazon.com, determining that Amazon was a ‘distributor’ of products that are either defective or fail to meet federal consumer product safety standards. As a result, the online retail giant now bears legal responsibility for their recall. More than 400,000 products are subject to this order...
On Monday, Disneyland Resort’s unionized workers ratified a three-year contract that includes a $24 hourly minimum wage in 2024 (more for some jobs), wage increases, seniority increases, more flexible attendance and sick leave policies, and other benefits. Most employees will be receiving an increase of $6.10 per hour over the next three years. The contract goes into effect immediately upon ratification.
In the latest chapter of the Paramount Global/Skydance Media merger saga, shareholders are challenging the terms of the deal by filing a class-action lawsuit. According to court documents dated July 24, the crux of the complaint claims that the “unfair” merger will primarily benefit Shari Redstone (who holds a controlling share in Paramount via National Amusements), while costing other shareholders US$1.65 billion...
The US is one step closer to turning two bills designed to protect kids online into laws and creating new rules and regulations for techcos and companies trying to reach the country’s children. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0) are wide-ranging bills that include requirements for social media companies to disable addictive product features...
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Financial Reporting
Nintendo Q1 profits decline 55% as the Switch nears the end of its lifecycle. Hardware sales were down 46.3%, while software sales decreased by 41.3%
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet become the third Pokemon RPGs to hit 25 million sales, surpassed only by Sword and Shield and the classics
News. More and more Pokemon trainers have been diving into the open-world RPGs
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on August 2nd ***
Spin Master Reveals Q2 2024 Earnings; CFO Mark Segal to Retire. Toy gross product sales were $384.7 million, including Melissa & Doug Toy gross product sales of $51.7 million. In Q2, revenue was $412 million, a decrease of 2.1% versus Q2 last yr. Entertainment revenue spiked 7.4% while Toys dipped 1.6% followed by a 14.3% slide in Digital Games.
Roblox revenue jumps by 31% in Q2. The platform's community of 79.5 million daily users spent US$955.2 million on virtual items for their in-game characters and additional content from April to June this year.
Jakks Pacific sales dip 11% in Q2. Winter movie releases Moana 2 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 can’t come soon enough for Jakks Pacific. The California-based toymaker reported global net sales in its second financial quarter totaling US$148.6 million—an 11% drop compared to last year’s US$166.9 million.
Xbox hardware revenue is in decline, but Microsoft says subscriptions and content define success. Xbox hardware revenue decreased by 42 percent year-over-year during Q4. As noted in a separate 10-K filing, that resulted in full-year Xbox hardware revenue tumbling by 13 percent year-over-year, "driven by lower volume of [Xbox] consoles sold."
EA beats net bookings expectations in Q1, feels record-breaking Q2 could be on the cards. EA delivered Q1 net bookings of $1.26 billion, exceeding its high-end guidance range of $1.25 billion.
Net sales down at Capcom, but company on track to meet financial targets. According to the publisher's latest fiscal report, net sales decreased by 32.5 percent yr-on-yr to 29.5 billion yen ($190.5 million) and operating income fell by 46.4 percent to 12.8 billion yen ($82.6 million).
Roses are red, Meta is blue, Reality Labs lost $4.5 billion during Q2. That's significantly more than the $3.7 billion loss it recorded this time last yr. It's a trend that has come to define Reality Labs–which reported full-year losses of $16.1 billion and $13.7 billion across 2023 and 2022 …
Nvidia just grew by $329 billion in a single day. The AI binge is transforming the graphics card manufacturer. Most people know Nvidia as the manufacturer of the chip that powers their Android phones, Nintendo Switches, and top-end PC gaming rigs.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
Amazon worth US$1.03 billion on TikTok. Fortnite, Barbie, Disney and Roblox amongst the kids brands with the highest earned media value on the video-sharing platform.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on August 2nd ***
France Toys Market Report by Segments and Sales Channels
Viewing of foreign content up 24% in English markets
The licensing industry generated US$15 billion more sales in 2023. Entertainment/character brands were responsible for 41.4% of all licensed product sales last year, driving a 4.6% year-over-year bump.
Licensing International’s 2024 Global Licensing Industry Study - Global sales of licensed merchandise and services reached $356.5b in sales and the overall licensing industry grew by 4.6% in 2023.
Report details toy sector online visibility. Salience Search Marketing‘s annual sector report examines the performance of toy brands, based on their online prominence and visibility.
Outdoor adventures: new toys & games encourage creativity, healthy habits, and screen-free play.
Shared adventures, heated battles: 18 new games to stock.
Stock this! 6 hot toys & games for your store.
The action aisle: 20 new action figures & collectibles.
Toy trends and child development: Open-ended play vs. closed-loop toys.
Stories, Comments, and Advice
How Specialty Retailers Create Unforgettable Customer Experiences. Specialty retailers are in many ways the ultimate customer experience specialists. Freed from the constraints of big box chains, specialty stores focus on a specific product category or niche market. They cater directly to customers, carrying high-quality products sold by knowledgeable staff – all of which can translate into memorable experience for customers.
What does the word 'gamer' actually mean? Imo Kaufman, a PHD student at the University of Nottingham who has been conducting research in collaboration with the National Videogame Museum, sought to unpack the term at during another breakneck Hyper Talk at AMAZE Sheffield. Taking to the stage for just five minutes, Kaufman explains she wants to unpack the identity and experiences that surround the term–for both...
A weird, whimsical game is hiding in the bookshelves at Los Angeles Public Library. “I love puzzles and I love games,” Crocker says. “But this, in particular, I was really trying to design an experience as art. The world is very stressful. The library makes me feel at peace and curious and in control of my time. I love that it’s a public space where I can also have a private moment. We can be alone together. To me, that is sacred.”
For customer experience to work, everyone needs to understand their role – and the RACI model can help. Though the model was developed back in the 1970s, well before CX became truly top-of-mind for most organizations, its principles apply very well today. What is the RACI Model? The RACI model is a responsibility assignment matrix that helps clarify roles and responsibilities within a project or organizational...
*** The above posted after August 2nd when tBR circulated ***
John Baulch, Toy World - Summertime (and the living is easy) … it’s the Friday Blog! It’s certainly been a case of ‘Phew, what a scorcher’ around these parts this week. After May and June, surely no-one is complaining? Actually, it turns out that some people are… I have spoken to a few retailers who have seen rather lacklustre footfall this week, presumably because it’s just too darn hot to head to the shops...
Rick Derr - How the Learning category got smarter. I remember first opening our toy store, where the Science category was made up of just a few items in rather drab packaging, and most were items you saw in schools. This included microscopes, telescopes, metal detectors, rock tumblers and kits that featured basic experiments. Well, this has certainly changed over the years.
Steve Reece - BOARD GAMES PACKAGING – 5 KEY THINGS TO GET RIGHT FOR A SUCCESSFUL GAME. There are a couple of major drivers of board games sales. Arguably the most important is the quality of the game experience itself, because a good game, or even better, a great game, will eventually start to sell itself when enough people have played it. Games are innately sociable, so you are automatically sharing a good...
Marvel is on the rebound. After its worst performance of all-time at the box office last November, the studio is back on top with “Deadpool & Wolverine.” The 34th entrant in the Marvel Cinematic Universe hauled in $211 million during its domestic debut, the highest debut of 2024 and of an R-rated film ever. It’s also the highest-opening MCU film since 2021′s “Spider-Man: No Way Home.” It’s a promising development...
The key message that made Inside Out 2 bigger than Barbie. While anxiety is one of our most uncomfortable emotions, the Pixar sequel shows how it can be valuable, and not always just something to be "fixed". Popular psychology might not seem like box office gold. Yet Inside Out 2 is now the highest grossing animation of all time, and its box office takings have already surpassed those of last year's blockbuster, Barbie.
Julia Fitzgerald - Today’s Midsize Match Up gets SPECIALIZED. Where does a CMO go for an Out Of Home (OOH) quick solution or an OMG! OOH national/local strategy? This is a powerful and specific channel that requires expertise. So today, I’m introducing you to Enza Chiodi, US Chief Client Officer from Talon America. Because they can help you. You’re welcome.
You Won’t See Them at the Olympics, but These Speed Puzzlers Are World-Class. Puzzling has been around for more than 250 years, but a budding tournament featuring participants from more than 75 countries in Spain is giving it new life. (Hey puzzle companies - we could have a tournament at our Chicago Toy and Game Fair! Send me a note if interested. -Mary)
From Black Barbie to Blind Barbie, Is it Enough? Does the Toy Industry Need More Diversity? The toy industry has long reflected societal norms and values, often perpetuating stereotypes and limiting the representation of diverse communities. However, the push for diversity in toys is gaining momentum, with parents, activists, and educators advocating for more inclusive options. Companies are starting to respond...
Check out this positively pink full-sized ‘Barbie Dreamhouse’ for sale in New Jersey… The bungalow includes a cinema room, large walk-in wardrobe, a craft room, and a handbag wall—all in bright pinks and calming lavenders. The three-bedroom property on Hughes Drive in Hamilton Township has a unique style that may only be perfect for a Barbie superfan—but it’s charm has gone viral on the Instagram account Zillow...
Every four years, when people watching the Olympics find themselves oddly transfixed by fencing. A surprising number of the fencers in Paris actually discovered the sport a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. They started fencing because of “Star Wars.” From the moment they saw Luke Skywalker duel with Darth Vader, they knew they wanted to wield lightsabers. Since they couldn’t play with laser swords, they settled...
How one toy almost killed the ‘Gundam’ franchise before it even began. One of the interesting stories behind the now massive Gundam franchise, is how it almost ended before it even started and all it took was one really terrible toy. While Gundam may be this monolithic success nowadays, it originally had quite a rocky start.
Where have all the heroes gone? A dramatic shift took place about 20 years ago, and now the door is wide open with opportunity. Action and adventure remain staples of classic play, but a new generation of heroes (and villains!) is mostly MIA. Notably, a dramatic shift takes place around 20 years into the archive as the once incredibly robust “action” categories shrink and, in some cases, essentially disappear.
The need for new action IP: Who will create the next great brand for kids ages 5-10? Can a toy commercial inspire play? Can it teach play patterns? Can it enrich a childhood through creative inspiration? Or is it just crass commercialism aimed at parents’ wallets? For nearly 15 yrs, these questions have remained top of mind through my work as a documentary filmmaker exploring the history of iconic toy brands...
Backstory: Forming Voltron — 40 years of defending the universe: A look at the history of an iconic toy brand. On September 10, 1984, Voltron: Defender of the Universe premiered — the result of a collaboration between World Events Productions (WEP) and Toei Animation. Conceived by TV pioneer Ted Koplar, the series drew inspiration from Japanese anime and focused on a team of pilots who command..
History and Nostalgia
Slip Disc from Milton Bradley (1980). Published by Milton Bradley in 1980, Slip Disc was billed as an exciting skill and action game that pit players against each other in a race for the win. The goal of the game was to match nine discs to the corresponding shapes on the game board. The board was visually divided into quadrants: red, yellow, blue, and green. Each player chose a section for the game.
Strong Museum’s ‘Eras Tour’ highlights classic toys. The Strong Museum has been hosting its National Toy Hall of Fame “Eras Tour” all summer, paying homage to toy history from different eras. The tour is named in honor of Taylor Swift’s summer tour. From now through August 4, the museum is highlighting classic toys that emerged more than 100 years ago.
DynaMo Racing Cars from Transogram (1969). Transogram’s DynaMo series of high-impact plastic cars and trucks were in constant motion thanks to their exclusive “auto clutch” feature. Released in 1969, each 1:43 scale car was powered by two N-cell batteries and featured pivoting front wheels and paint jobs with an aluminized finish.
Flashback: Action-packed toys from 1989: From cuisine-based warriors to licensed heroes, 1989’s toys were every bit as adventurous as today’s. In some ways, action and adventure toys are timeless. (Who has truly improved upon the action figure?) But in other ways, the decades change our ideas of action and adventure, and these changed attitudes inevitably makes their way into our toys.
Licensing and Entertainment
Spin Master is throwing its hat into the branded mashup ring, and tapping into the growing kids sports content trend. Spin Master’s construction-themed preschool series Rubble & Crew is getting a helping paw from the series it’s based on, in a bid to generate buzz for its upcoming second and third season episodes on Nickelodeon and its first-season premiere on Paramount+ on September 4.
Looking to capture the youngest demo of sports fans, the New York Yankees’ YES network is going for a home run with an original 2D-animated series. Bronx Buds (six x seven minutes) is slated to debut on the northeast US regional sports network’s app on August 17, with a new episode rolling out every Saturday until October.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on August 2nd ***
Barbie fever is still going strong, and Turkey Hill, the ice cream company, is here to keep the good times going. In honor of her 65th anniversary, Turkey Hill is unveiling two brand-new Barbie-inspired flavors, Strawberry Marshmallow and Frosted Cupcake. "Turkey Hill and Barbie both believe in unlocking your limitless potential and turning everyday moments into lifelong memories," Brittany Smith...
Cloudco Entertainment has signed deals with three new licensees to expand the global reach of its flagship Care Bears franchise with more toys and plush. Product rollouts will start to play out later this year, with German toyco Simba Dickie Group manufacturing and distributing its new Care Bears SKUs in select EU markets initially, and then expanding with wider European retail coverage in Q1 next year.
Marvel Comics announced two new characters and a new lineup for the Time Variance Authority during its presentation at the Diamond Lunch at Comic-Con International in San Diego. Following the death of Deadpool in Deadpool #6, Wade Wilson's daughter Ellie will step up to replace him, debuting in Deadpool #7, which will be co-written by regular series writer Cody Ziglar and co-writer Alexis Quasarano...
'Marvel United' take on 'World War Hulk'. New expansion by CMON and Spin Master Games. Asmodee will release World War Hulk, a new expansion for Marvel United by CMON and Spin Master Games, which will hit stores on August 9, 2024. The World War Hulk expansion adds enraged Gladiator Hulk as a new foe for the heroes to battle against.
‘Skibidi Toilet’ Film and TV Franchise in the Works From Michael Bay, Adam Goodman. That Goodman is even presenting migrating Skibidi IP to TV or film as an option is a testament to the audience size the property has amassed on YouTube and Roblox, where the monetization opportunity is ample. The audience growth for all things Skibidi has been staggering...
The coolest Hasbro Star Wars, Marvel, and Transformers toys revealed at Comic-Con. Every Comic-Con Hasbro always manages to wow us with the amazing new action figures that are going to bleed our wallets dry over the next few months, and this year is no exception. With major reveals from Star Wars‘ Black Series and Vintage Collection, Marvel Legends, and the Transformers team, here’s a rundown...
Hasbro introduces new G.I. Joe, Transformers collectibles at SDCC. Among the products guests have previewed are new G.I. Joe Classified Series action figures, including Edward “Starduster” Skylar,” and the new G.I. Joe Assault Copter Dragonfly (XH-1) HasLab. It also debuted the action figure-laden Transformers Legacy United Dinobot Dinoking Multipack.
San Diego’s IDW Publishing has partnered with anime distributor and publisher Viz Media to launch comic books that mash up the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with Naruto. The four-issue series, which features the brands’ characters teaming up to fight villains from both universes, will roll out internationally on November 13.
Supersocial and Bandai Namco Entertainment America have announced the launch of Pac-Man Simulator, creating an all-new experience on Roblox based on the globally beloved video game icon. Pac-Man Simulator adapts the revered IP for the first time on Roblox. Supersocial and Bandai Namco plan to expand on the core experience with new content and features in the coming months.
Rocketship Entertainment, the 2021 Ringo Award winner for Favorite Publisher, and Rovio Entertainment have entered into a multi-book publishing agreement to bring all-new Angry Birds graphic novels and young readers comics to fans, starting later this year. Facilitated by Angry Birds’ licensing agency IMG, this collaboration is part of the 15th anniversary celebration of the franchise.
One of the internet's most famous Vocaloids and Japan's most popular virtual idols, Hatsune Miku is officially getting her own anime movie which has just revealed a new exciting trailer and release date. Easily one of the biggest internet sensations of the 2010s, Project Sekai's new anime movie is set to revive the Hatsune Miku fandom once more.
Comic book publisher Dynamite Entertainment is expanding its partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) by adding five new licenses to its portfolio. Under the expanded agreement, which was announced at last weekend’s San Diego Comic-Con, Dynamite will adapt WBD’s 2D-animated cartoon series Ben 10 (2005, pictured), Captain Planet (1990), Thundarr the Barbarian (1980)...
Bluey will release its third album, Bluey: Rug Island, featuring 16 original tracks from the global hit animated series, on 25th October via Demon Music Group. The new music is created by the series’ award-winning composer Joff Bush and the Bluey music team. Bluey: Rug Island will be released on streaming services, CD, beautiful sunset orange vinyl and limited-edition vinyl picture disc.
Hot Toys unveils Deadpool & Wolverine sixth scale figures. With Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine ripping up the box office and breaking R-rated records left, right and center, Hot Toys has taken the opportunity to showcase its upcoming sixth scale figures inspired by Ryan Reynolds Merc with the Mouth and Hugh Jackman’s Logan as seen in the superhero blockbuster.
Funko highlighted ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ products, revealed ‘Funko Fusion’ details at SDCC. Multimedia collectibles brand Funko was busy last weekend at Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) as it held panels, unveiled video game details, and more. To center its upcoming video game debut, Funko Fusion, the brand held a “Funko Fusion: A Festival of Fandom” panel, in which previously unreleased details...
SDCC: LEGO reveals new Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi set. LEGO is bringing warp pipes to wine nights! This year’s Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) features a full collection of companies bringing their best sneak previews and new reveals. The LEGO Group is no exception. The company took to the convention to showcase its upcoming LEGO Super Mario Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi set.
SDCC: JAKKS Pacific reveals new ‘The Simpsons’ figures and plush. The iconic adult animated series The Simpsons is at this year’s Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) thanks to JAKKS Pacific. JAKKS Pacific has an impressive portfolio of figures and other collectibles featuring popular franchises such as Super Mario, Disney, Sonic the Hedgehog, and more.
Mr Bean Licensing intros plush and novelties. Bulldog Licensing, which has been appointed by Banijay Kids & Family as the U.K. and Ireland licensing agent for Mr Bean, has announced a major new licensee signing for the comedy character. Posh Paws International and its parent company, Whitehouse Leisure International, will be producing Mr Bean plush for both the retail and amusement/leisure sectors.
SDCC: Jazwares unveils exclusive Total Anime collection. Jazwares, one of the world’s leading toy companies, is showcasing a first look at Total Anime, a comprehensive portfolio of acclaimed Anime, across all figure formats, at San Diego Comic- Con. At Jazwares’ booth 3513, fans can get the Total Anime Exclusive Eren Jaeger (“Attack on Titan”) and preorder 6.5-inch scale figures from properties “Attack on Titan”...
Bridgehead debuts licensing division with L.O.L Surprise!, Original Stormtrooper. Bridgehead International, a growth agency, has announced the launch of its brand licensing division. The strategic move aims to expand its growing portfolio and bring beloved brands to consumers worldwide. The licensing division has just signed agreements with L.O.L Surprise! and the Original Stormtrooper.
Warner Bros. Discovery announces ‘Back to Hogwarts’ IRL and digital celebrations. On Sept. 1, Snapchatters can access two new Back to Hogwarts Lenses inspired by the famous Sorting Hat and Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions, exclusively via the app. Aug. 26-Sept. 9, fans in London, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, New York City and Tokyo can see how the Hogwarts Express looks against a backdrop of five of the world’s...
Hot Wheels City Experiences arrives in Manchester in August. With just two weeks remaining until the Hot Wheels City Experience arrives at Manchester’s B.E.C Arena for its European debut, preparations are shifting into high gear. Opening its doors between 13th August – 12th September 2024, the 6,000 square metre experience is set to ignite excitement amongst Hot Wheels fans of all age...
Super7 showcased products inspired by D&D, TMNT, & More at SDCC. The company’s booth featured IPs like G.I. Joe, Wonka, and Toho. Last week, toy and collectible company Super7 highlighted several IPs at Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC). The company’s booth showcased products inspired by Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), G.I. Joe, Wonka, and more.
Fast & Furious takes over Jada’s MegaCon Live stand. Fans saw a Toyota Supra signed by one of the directors from the Fast & Furious film series at Simba Smoby UK’s Jada stand at MegaCon Live. Fast & FuriousSimba Smoby UK completed stage two of its Jada triple comic convention tour this weekend with a Fast & Furious showcase at Manchester’s MegaCon Live.
Paizo teams up with The Game Theatre to offer 'Pathfinder' and 'Starfinder' weekend getaways. Paizo Inc. has teamed up with The Game Theatre LLC to create a series of Paizo-licensed weekend roleplaying getaways that feature gaming events and experiences. It seems as the though Paizo has entered into the travel business with The Game Theatre LLC, a gaming vacation production company.
'Deadpool & Wolverine' blows the roof off: Robert Downey Jr. is Doom in 'Avengers'; 'FF4' movie gets a title; 'Rings of Power S2,' 'Star Trek,' and 'Penguin' trailers; 'The Boys' prequel ordered. Showbiz Round-up. Deadpool & Wolverine grossed $205 million, the biggest R-rated opening in history, and the 8th best opening weekend of all time, according to Variety.
Topps launches Match Attax UEFA Club Competitions football cards. Topps, the trading card brand of Fanatics Collectibles, will launch the new season of Match Attax trading cards on Aug. 29, when the new UEFA Club Competitions (UCC) 24/25 hits the shelves. Fans can collect some of the world’s biggest superstars such as Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and Phil Foden, with the new Match Attax UCC 24/25 collection...
Aristocrat Gaming to intro ‘House of the Dragon’ slot game. Aristocrat Gaming has announced the introduction of the new “House of the Dragon” slot game, anticipated to light up casino floors before the end of the calendar year. Ahead of the show’s Season 2 finale, the game will be on the King Max cabinet, offering fans of the show a new way to experience the action and excitement of the HBO Original drama series.
Chaos arrives at Hot Toys with new Deadpool & Wolverine Cosbi minis. Get ready for the greatest road trip in your life as Hot Toys announces a new Deadpool & Wolverine Cosbi Collection. This series of bite-size collectibles stands roughly 3" tall and features nine impressive best bubs. Each of these little cuties is blind-bagged for rarity, with one of the nine being a limited edition Mystery Cosbi.
Hootenanny Games launches Sour Patch Kids edition of SIXEM. Hootenanny Games has launched a Sour Patch Kids version of its popular SIXEM dice game. The game sees players aim to be the first to line up their Xs in a way that matches a chosen pattern, all by rolling combinations of numbers and colors.
'Superman' is in the can; Harrison Ford is Red Hulk; Animated Series based on 'Infinity' game; 'Creature Commandos,' And 'TWD' 'Carol' and 'Dead City' trailers; 'Doctor Who' spinoff. Showbiz Round-up. James Gunn took to social media on July 30, 2024 to tell the world that Superman: Legacy had officially wrapped main production.
Wizkids unveils 'Dungeons & Dragons Gamelings': Collectible wooden tokens. WizKids unveiled Dungeons & Dragons Gamelings, a new line of collectible wooden tokens, which will hit retail in November 2024. These wooden tokens were designed and decorated to represent some of fan favorite D&D creatures, characters, and more.
LEGO launches SDCC activation with space station display. The buildables company is showcasing Star Wars, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Super Mario products. Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) is underway, and the LEGO Group has made its presence known with a massive space-themed booth display.
On Friday 26th July, the BBC and Disney Branded Television jointly announced their first brand-new Doctor Who spin-off titled, The War Between The Land And The Sea, during San Diego Comic-Con. The series is created by Doctor Who showrunner and executive producer, Russell T Davies, who has written the series with Pete McTighe.
Serious Kids and Keyframe Studios have partnered to co-produce a mixed-media adaptation of the Cats React to Facts books. Aimed at seven to 12s, this 2D/CG-animated series features cat news anchors and their comedic takes on interesting science facts. The project is based on Izzi Howell’s same-name books for six- to eight-year-olds.
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People of Play
In late May 2024, Greg Ahearn was named president & CEO of The Toy Association, the US trade organisation representing the toy industry. Bringing to the role significant experience from both the supply and retail sides of the fence, his appointment has been widely hailed as a wise choice for the association, which is now preparing to move forward and evolve with the ever-changing market. Toy World’s John Baulch...
Congrats to Matt Nuccio, Bredan Boyle and Mark Garcis for a successful IFIA event! Here's a bit of Matt's post: I Just wrapped up an incredible experience as a juror for the IFIA-International Federation of Inventors' Associations, SCVIIF, and it was nothing short of amazing! Special thanks to Brendan Boyle of IDEO and Stanford Design School fame, Mark E. Garcia from Hasbro Inventor Relations for....
Azhelle Wade’s Own “Toy Story”. Podcaster, educator and consultant Azhelle Wade, (BFA, Toy Design ’10), sees potential toys and potential six-figure salaries everywhere in the booming toy-and-games industry. She says she has FIT to thank. Many others say she should be thanked as well. She’s founder and CEO of The Toy Coach, helping toy industry newbies and companies thrive.
How a Murder Mystery Tabletop Game Managed to Outsell Monopoly (on Amazon). We chat with the makers of Cryptic Killers. Perhaps even more astonishing is the fact that this sales behemoth arose from a chance holiday meeting. "Luke Stephenson and I met each other at the beach bar in Mexico, over a beer back in 2012," Hobbs continues. "When the holiday came to an end, we added each other on Facebook and left it ...
13-year-old Analise Potsander wins young inventor challenge with pirate game. Analise shared her journey of how she got into game design. In 2018, her sister created a game for fun, and their mother discovered the Young Inventor Challenge. Analise and her siblings entered the competition, and Analise won that year. She has participated every year since.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on August 2nd ***
The Changemakers: Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment. Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, chairwoman, Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment, discusses the organization’s efforts to promote the advancement of women in the licensing, toys and entertainment industries. To celebrate the initiatives and individuals behind change, License Global explores how the licensing industry is impacting sustainability, diversity and inclusion...
Dave Yearick and his son Rudiger Yearick of South Carolina are founders of The Good Game Company, a creator and publisher of various board games. The Good Game Company just released its 20th game, "Big Foot vs. Yeti Splat Attack," which is available for purchase at Target. Before this big-time presence on store shelves, game-making began as a small hobby for dad Dave Yearick.
BBC Studios Brands and Licensing has announced the appointment of Nicki Sheard as CEO, Brands and Licensing as the BBC Studios division sets a new global approach to its Consumer Products and Licensing business, with the creation of two distinct global teams.
From BBC NY, Global Consumer Products will be led by Suzy Raia, SVP Global Consumer Products, while in London, Stephen Davies, now SVP Global Licensing, will oversee the newly created Global Licensing team.
BBC Studios also welcomes Lee Allentuck who joins the Global Consumer Products team in New York as VP, CP, North America to complete the CP leadership team.
Andre Kieren has joined LongPack Games Manufacturing as their new North American Sales Director. LongPack is a board game manufacturer based in Shanghai, China that has its own in-house factory. Kieren is the co-founder and current CEO of Golden Goose (see "Golden Goose"), and has also previously worked at Games Workshop and more recently Asmodee.
The winner of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour Chicago stop has just been announced! More than 118 cars participated and over 5,000 Hot Wheels fans attended the event at Walmart in Morris, IL. Mark Cryer has claimed the top spot at the Chicago event with his custom 2009 Smart ForTwo. About the 2009 Smart ForTwo. After purchasing a wrecked Smart car, Mark Cryer went to work with his son and a few close family...
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have been changed for good by their Wicked dolls. The two actresses, who star as Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba and Glinda the Good Witch, respectively, in the upcoming Wicked big-screen adaptations, are getting their very own in-character Barbie dolls. In a video posted to Instagram by Erivo, 37, Grande, 31, Mattel and the Wicked movie, the duo are seen joyfully reacting to seeing a...
Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Only this time he won’t wear the red-and-gold mask of Marvel’s heroic philanthropist Iron Man, but rather the titanium one of the mystic scientist Doctor Doom, one of Marvel’s most notorious villains.
“New mask, same task,” Downey said on his return. “What can I tell you? I like playing complicated characters.”
Stephen Nedoroscik can solve a Rubik’s Cube in 8.68 seconds and enjoys playing video games, particularly one that resembles soccer but with a car that blasts the ball around. Nedoroscik also happens to be better than just about everyone on the planet when it comes to swinging his body around a pommel horse. And for the U.S. men’s gymnastics team to win a breakthrough bronze medal at the Olympics, it needed...
Companies and Brands
Japan's leading community-powered marketplace, Mercari customers in the U.S. can now access its Japanese marketplace. Via a press release, the launch of "Mercari x Japan" means fans can now access inventory from millions of Japanese sellers, including niche and hard-to-find collectibles like manga and action figures, as well as from extremely popular brands and franchises like Dragon Ball, One Piece, Sanrio...
The operator of Disney's cruise line in Japan has revealed plans to expand its fleet if its first ship is a success. Earlier this month Disney announced that its cruise line will venture into the Japanese market for the first time in its 26-year history. It has a natural home as the cruise terminal on the outskirts of Tokyo is just a 12 minute drive from a Disney resort with two theme parks and six hotels.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated August 2nd ***
Disney is launching its new Disney Princess "Create Your World" campaign, encouraging fans to embrace their inner Princess magic.
Beyond just shopping the assortment of products below to bring Disney magic into your home, families and children can check out a brand new Disney Princess series on YouTube that was filmed in front of a live audience at the Disneyland Park.
MOOSE TOYS OOZES WITH INNOVATION AT COMIC-CON DEBUT — Hazmat helpers emerge from a tanker spill holding MrBeast Lab Swarms and Mutators surrounded by blue slime outside of Comic-Con. The activation launched the debut line of MrBeast Lab collectibles co-created by Moose Toys and MrBeast, AKA Jimmy Donaldson, the #1 most subscribed YouTuber in the world.
Hasbro Children’s Hospital recently announced it has been recognized as one of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals in 2024 for pediatric endocrinology by Newsweek and Statista Inc. “The division of pediatric endocrinology at Hasbro Children’s Hospital is committed to providing the community with first-rate quality care, treating each child as an individual and prioritizing research to learn more about the effects of diabetes...
'Modern Horizons 3' expected to vie for bestselling 'Magic' set of all time ahead of 'Lord of the Rings'. Modern Horizons 3 was the fastest-selling Magic: The Gathering set of all time in the first weeks of release, leading Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks to note the comparison to the Lord of the Rings set in the conference call.
Jakks Pacific to launch fall lifestyle collection. Toy and consumer products manufacturer Jakks Pacific has revealed a new line of branded lifestyle products. The collection will include Quiksilver, Roxy, Element, and Juicy Couture products such as skateboards, helmets, knee pads, and roller skates.
Revisit the dawn of mankind in 'Doggerland': New worker placement game by Super Meeple. Hachette Boardgames will release Doggerland, a new board game by Super Meeple, into retail on August 21, 2024. In Doggerland, players take charge of a tribe trying to survive in the year 15,000 BCE.
Hornby makes tracks with Playtrains. Playtrains marked a significant step-change for Hornby Railway and, since its announcement earlier this year, has been positively received by both retailers and consumers. The market has shown a keen interest in the new line, particularly due to its focus on younger audiences, filling a gap in the market for train sets for children aged 4-9 that blend play value and interactivity.
New Barbie Dream Besties. The four dolls are available now, each with a unique personality and dream career. Mattel has a new line of dolls designed to encourage older girls to follow their dreams. The Barbie Dream Besties Assortment is the newest in Barbie doll offerings, bringing a fresh take to the popular fashion dolls.
FanRoll unveils Catan Game pieces ahead of Gen Con. FanRoll’s latest licensed offerings are headed to Indianapolis. FanRoll is headed to Gen Con in Indianapolis, Indiana with new Catan collectors dice and stone robbers. The highlight of this launch is the set of oversized six-sided dice. Inside the dice, Catan fans can find resources from the game, including wool, grain, lumber, brick, and ore.
Il Viaggio di Hamleys continues with third Italian store. Hot on the heels of successful openings in Milan and Rome, Hamleys has continued to drive its Italian expansion with the opening of its first shopping center location in Bergamo’s Oriocenter. The new store, opened in partnership with Giochi Preziosi S.P.A., one of Italy’s leading toy manufacturers and distributors...
Polly Pocket celebrates 35th anniversary. Mattel is marking the 35th anniversary of the Polly Pocket brand with the release of a new product collection and a host of consumer product activations. A millennial at heart, Polly Pocket has spent the last 35 years making the ordinary, extraordinary, and igniting a sense of adventure in kids everywhere.
Dark Horse nabs 'Dungeons & Dragons,' 'Magic: The Gathering' licenses for comics, graphic novels, and art books. Dark Horse has inked a new deal with Wizards of the Coast to publish comics, graphic novels, and art books based on Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering. The new line will launch in Summer 2025 and will include new stories based on the worlds of both games.
Join the destruction derby in 'Thunder Road, Part 5': 'Carnival of Chaos'. Restoration Games will release Carnival of Chaos, the fifth part of the Thunder Road board game series, into retail on October 2024. In this expansion for Thunder Road: Vendetta, players make it to Free City in time for the Carnival of Chaos participate in Turbo Tina's destruction derby.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
Destiny developer Bungie cutting 220 jobs after exceeding 'financial safety margins'. Destiny developer Bungie is laying off 220 worker due to "rising costs of development and industry shifts as well as enduring economic condition." The studio, which was acquired by PlayStation maker Sony for $3.6 billion in 2022, said the redundancies will result in a 17 percent workforce reduction.
Humble Games' recent restructure is hurting devs and their games. Last week's sudden restructuring of Humble Games has affected various developers, including Squid Shock Games. The creator of Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus revealed it's been dealt a "critical blow," particular with the game's console ports.
GameStop dunks on digital games and gets savaged by Xbox 360 fans. Everyone has been mourning the death of the Xbox 360 after its marketplace officially shut down earlier this week, recalling some of their favorite memories with the console that introduced them to life-long friends and some of their favorite games. Leave it to GameStop to show up to the party with nothing but petty grievances.
PlayStation VR2 is $200 off in desperate fire sale. It’s no secret that the PlayStation VR2 headset has struggled since launching back in 2023 and a new sale makes those challenges clear: Sony is currently selling the PS5 accessory for $200 off. Normally $600 for the headset, controllers, and a copy of Horizon: Call of the Mountain (the virtual reality spin-off of Horizon Zero Dawn)...
Contact Sales Maxx Tech range available to enhance video game play. The Maxx Tech range, available via Contact Sales, comprises over 30 products including accessories for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation, VR peripherals for Meta Quest and PSVR, as well as racing wheels, headsets, joysticks and gaming accessories with various compatibilities across PC, Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
Highlighted Press Releases
SUPER BLANKYS® GIVE KIDS A WARM SNUGGLE AND INSPIRE THEM TO FEEL LIKE THE SUPERHEROES THEY ARE. Moon Sonder™ Has Designed a Delightful Combination of a Soft Comforting Hug and Fun Superhero Play In Wearable Blankets. Keego Harbor, MI (July 23, 2024) – “Cool Aunt” Karen Bonnici invented Super Blankys® homemade blankets with sleeves as gifts for her young nieces and nephew. She’s always been a homemade gift maker but the outsized reaction to these gifts helped her see she just might have the seed for a successful entrepreneurial idea.
Safety and Counterfeiting
Toy guns recalled due to eye injury hazard; failure to meet federal safety regulations for projectile toys; Sold Exclusively on Temu.com by Youjiu. Name of Product: Victor Electric Folding Soft Bullet Toy Guns. Hazard: The recalled toy guns fail to meet federal safety standards, as they do not have a blaze orange tip that is required by the mandatory toy standard to differentiate toy guns from real guns...
EcoWaste Coalition: Some toys sold outside Philippine public schools pose choking and other safety hazards. Some cheap toys being offered for sale outside public elementary schools in Metro Manila pose choking hazards and other safety issues. The environmental and health watchdog group EcoWaste Coalition made this observation following the test buys it conducted on July 29 coinciding with...
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Young Inventor Challenge® registration is NOW OPEN for kids ages 6-18 from all over the world to submit their toy and game inventions judged by toy industry professionals. Participants have the opportunity to win prizes and get their creation published! Learn more about the Young Inventor Challenge® and get inspired to create!
Gen Con LLC. announced that it has broken its previous attendance record at its 2024 convention. The convention sold out at over 71,000 unique attendees. The previous attendance record was over 70,000 unique attendees at Gen Con 2023, a show which had broken record from the 2019 numbers (see "Gen Con Releases Attendance"). The show also sported over 540 exhibitors as well as nearly 24,000 events run.
The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) has unveiled that it will present the first Children’s and Family Film Award at the 78th edition of its awards ceremony in February. The award will be the first new category BAFTA has added to its ceremonies in 5 yrs, since the introduction of its Casting category in 2020.
Here is the 10th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show from SDCC, presented by Mattel, and hosted by Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott. The 2024 Her Universe Fashion Show, presented by Mattel, celebrated its 10th anniversary this year at San Diego Comic-Con with a show full of fun, fashion, and innovation. Watch as 25 designers compete for the chance to win the opportunity to design a Her Universe collection...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on August 2nd ***
Registration for People of Play’s Inventor Pitch & Innovation Conference opens. Registration for People of Play’s (POP) Inventor Pitch & Innovation Conference is now open. POP invites companies in the toy and game industry to attend the conference at the Embassy Suites in Rosemont, IL, from Nov. 7-9. The event, deemed the world’s largest and longest running toy and game inventor pitch and innovator conference...
Spielwarenmesse 2025 plans for a revamped Toy Business Forum. Spielwarenmesse eG is already looking toward its namesake trade show next year, with plans for a re-designed Toy Business Forum. The forum has a 20-year history of presentations and offerings for industry attendees. Now, it’s updating its experience to include a fresh look, new interactive talks, and additional networking opportunities.
Board Game Club announces new party games special. Board Game Clubparty, the popular games night for grown-ups, is back with a packed menu full of party games on Tuesday 3rd September, 6pm-10pm at Century Club in London’s Soho. As well as the hottest new party games from Big Potato, Hot House Games, Exploding Kittens, Format Games, Golden Bear, Moose Games...
Micro Scooters shortlisted for National Sustainability Awards 2024. The prestigious National Sustainability Awards recognize companies and brands who have great stories of innovation and breadth of impact across all sectors that can help build a more sustainable and better future. Micro Scooters UK has been shortlisted for the Circular and Recycling Award – Materials Recycling...
San Diego Comic-Con 2024: The good, the bad and the ugly. San Diego Comic-Con happens gradually then suddenly. One minute the doors are opening for preview night, and four and a half long, long days later, we are spat out the other side, staggering back to wherever we came from. It is, in the words of cartoonist Scott Shaw, America’s favorite ordeal. .
Gen Con 2024 news: Diana Jones Award winner announced. The Diana Jones Award committee announced the winner of the 2024 Diana Jones Award on Wednesday July 29, 2024. The five finalists for this year's award were all worthy of the coveted DJA Award in their own way. However, one nominee stuck out over the rest as far as the major contributions they made to the games industry, the United Paizo Workers..
Netflix is making its virtual “Geeked Week” fan event a reality with the show’s first in-person component in Atlanta this September. While the entire Geeked Week celebration will run Sept. 16-Sept. 19, the majority of the experience surrounding TV, film and gaming news from Netflix will take place online (as the three previous versions of Geeked Week have), and then conclude with the real-life...
Canada’s public broadcaster has announced the first kids stream finalists for its AccessCBC program, an initiative that provides training, mentoring and pre-development funding to emerging deaf and disabled content creators in Canada. Earlier this year, applicants were encouraged to submit concepts for either animated or live-action short-form series...
The 11th China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair ( CCBF ) will take place in the vibrant city of Shanghai from 15 to 17 November. Over the past eleven years, CCBF has established itself as the leading event for children’s books and content in the Asia-Pacific region.
ASIFA-Hollywood—the largest chapter of the international non-profit org Association International du Film d’Animation—has selected interim executive director Aubry Mintz to take on the role permanently. Mintz is a veteran animation educator, writer and character animator who currently teaches animation filmmaking at California State University, Long Beach.
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 readers. Archives can be found HERE
Beth Schlansky, licensing and retail veteran, a pioneering figure in the licensing industry, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2024, at Columbia Presbyterian Hospice in New York City due to complications from cancer. She was 70 years old.
Schlansky began her career in Macy’s Executive Training Program, where she honed her skills in the buying office and learned the store line. In 1979, she joined the corporate office of British American Tobacco U.S. (BATUS), where she sourced home goods for major retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Marshall Field’s, Gimbels, and Kohl’s. Her role involved extensive international travel, particularly in Europe and Asia.
In 1986, Schlansky was recruited by Spencer Gifts, where she recognized the growing potential of licensing. She became one of the nation’s first Vice Presidents of Licensing for a retailer and was an early adopter of Direct to Retailer licensing contracts. Her innovative approach led to numerous successful licensing ventures.
Schlansky also contributed significantly to Licensing International (formerly LIMA), the leading trade association for the global brand licensing industry. She served on its Board of Directors, was a LIMA Retail Officer, and became the first Charity Chairperson, where she helped inaugurate the Licensing Industry’s Charity focus, The Hole in The Wall Gang Camp, founded by Paul Newman.
In 2006, she founded her own company, Beth Schlansky, Inc., offering licensing and consulting services to licensors, manufacturers, and retailers. Her expertise facilitated numerous successful licensing deals across various industries.
Schlansky is survived by her husband, George Velasco. She was predeceased by her parents, Morris and Lilian, and her beloved dog, Anna.
Sam Mowry, a voice actor for League of Legends and other games, passed away this weekend at 64 years old. Per Oregon Arts Watch, Mowry went into cardiac arrest while preparing for surgery to alleviate arterial blockage. In League, Mowry played the character of Rhaast. Other notable credits include Dota 2 (as the Anti-Mage), Sly 2: Band of Thieves (Arpeggio), Infamous (Kessler), and Amnesia: The Dark Descent (Alexander).
"For the voice of a Darkin, Sam was a bastion of light," wrote Riot. "It was an honor to work with him and he will live on as a part of Runeterra forever." Outside of games, Mowry performed in Portland theaters and in radio dramas. He co-founded the Willamette Radio Workshop in 2001 and performed in musical versions of Sherlock Holmes and The Jungle Book.
Jürgen Stöhr. died on 28th April 2024. H was a businessman and entrepreneur, was a mainstay of the German Toy & Games market for many years and invented the classic family game Kniffel.
The European Games market owes much to Jürgen and his family, who were the final owners of Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit. The company was initially founded 1907 by Jürgen’s grandfather, Josef Friedrich Schmidt, an entrepreneur and an inventor of games who was inspired by the antique predecessors of their modern-day counterparts. Josef invented some of Europe’s most popular board games under the Schmidt Spiel banner, including Mensch Ärgere Dich Nicht (Take It Easy), Ludo and Paschisi.
In 1970, Schmidt Spiel joined forces with board game company Franz Schmidt to create Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit. The company flourished thanks co-owner Jürgen’s experience in product development, sales and marketing. With Kniffel, which is often described as ‘poker with dice’, he created a massively successful product in the German game market which ultimately saw Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit become the second largest toy and game producer in the region. The company had subsidiaries in France, Austria and the Netherlands, while the the rest of Europe was under franchise agreement. Read More...
Rob Ramash - Tribute from Kim Carter: Today we are saddened to learn that our friend, and former business associate, Rob Romash died suddenly on June 9th. Rob was a larger than life talented individual.
Rob had a passion for flying toys as a kid and he extended this into his business career, building his business, Eclipse toys on the numerous flying toys he designed.
A native of New Jersey, Rob started out in toys with Larami, moved on to Tyco / Mattel (where he worked on Matchbox) and subsequently joined Estes Rockets before setting up Eclipse toys.
Beyond toys Rob was well known in model flying circles, was a talented artist, crafted wooden furniture and even designed his wife Nida’s wedding ring.
Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories
Some Added Friday Morning Chicago Time. Check Back for Complete Lists.
Toy Trade Monthly Issues
Adventure Media & Events (US)
aNb Media (US)
Toyworld (UK)
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Hasbro Q2 results reveal strong profits despite revenue decline
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Micro Scooters shortlisted for National Sustainability Awards 2024
Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld
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BBC Studios revamps Consumer Products and Licensing business
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Licensing International releases annual Global Licensing Industry Study
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Story House Egmont and Spin Master partner for Unicorn Academy magazine
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Rovio partners with Rocketship Entertainment for Angry Birds’ 15th Anniversary
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- WizKids Unveils 'Dungeons & Dragons Gamelings'
- Steamforged Unveils New 'Warmachine' Boxed Set
- 'Magic: The Gathering' 'Secret Lair' Inside the Elevator Superdrop Incoming
- Dark Horse Nabs 'Dungeons & Dragons,' 'Magic: The Gathering' Licenses
- More New 'D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures' Revealed
- Paizo Teams Up with The Game Theatre
- Sirius Dice Unveils 'Dungeons & Dragons: New Adventurer Dice Set'
- Rolling for Initiative -- 'Magic: The Gathering - Bloomburrow,' 'D&D' and Local Game Store Day
- New 'Warhammer 40,000: Blood Angels Army Set' Revealed
- 'Modern Horizons 3' Expected to Vie for Bestselling 'Magic' Set of All Time
Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)
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Mattel presents a Black Barbie with Down syndrome and a blind Barbie.
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People of Play opens registration for the world's largest toy and game inventor conference.
Global Toy News
The Bugg Report (Australia)
The Toy Universe (Australia)
hobbyDB
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10 Valuable Olympic Collectibles From Hard Rock, Breyer and Beyond
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Entire "The Amazing Spider-man" Comic Book Collection Vol. 1-7
Video of the Week
From Electric Novelty to National Pastime: 123 Years of Lionel Trains
Tim Walsh's Where's the Fun from?
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Thank you for being a reader of the Bloom Report. — Mary and Graeme
Founding Editor and Publisher (1998-2020, Retired): Philip Bloom
We are honored to carry on Phil's 22 year legacy and continue the Bloom Report. Phil has been a mensch
and we've loved working with him. Here is a fun and interesting interview with Phil.
If you would like to reach Phil: philip.bloom100@verizon.net
Publisher: Mary Couzin, Chicago Toy & Game Group, Inc.
Managing Editor: Graeme Thomson
Assistant Editor: Patrick Fisher
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
Do you have news to share? Send us a note! mary@chitag.com
