Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
As much as we all wish it would just float away, we should talk about what’s top of mind these days across the whole toy industry. Tariffs. The foreseeable future is uncertain, and that’s putting it mildly. Some experts weigh in on possible ways we can navigate this situation, and whether or not anybody is prepared for the impending tariffs, we’re all in the same boat. This week's Bloom Report has more articles about this one single topic than any other topic ever. And, the Toy Association is leading the effort globally to work towards keeping toys tariff-free. (Read update below.)
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Mary and the POP Team
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People of the Week - Chatty Snap's Alicia Schwartz and Annalee Oakley: "No Means Not Yet"
Hi Alicia and Annalee! Thank you for taking time to chat with us. Please share with our readers what your claim to fame is in the toy industry?
We created a unique new product that did not exist before, requiring us to obtain multiple patents to make ChattySnaps a reality. That whole process slowed us down a bit out of the gate, but we were determined to see our idea through and as a result we have patented products!
Do you have a mantra that you live by?
When we first approached people with our products, we received our fair share of no's, which we expected, as we were new, but we always told ourselves that "no means not yet"--something we still say to this day.
What is it about the Toy and Game Industry that you love?
Definitely the people! This is such a fun group. We have learned from the best and made lifelong friends since being welcomed into this warm community. Read More...
Toy Association Leads Global Toy Industry in Advocating for Tariff-Free Toys
The Toy Association™ is working with associations around the world to reaffirm the industry’s commitment to keeping toys tariff-free.
The statement is a united call for toys to be excluded from all tariffs as the U.S. and its trading partners work to renegotiate better trade deals. Together with support from associations around the globe, The Toy Association is advocating to exclude toys from tariffs, noting previously established guidelines through the 1994 Uruguay General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) that have long recognized the essential nature of toys.
“Toys are essential products for childhood development and early education, and our industry works tirelessly to ensure these products remain safe and accessible," said Kathrin Belliveau, chief policy officer at The Toy Association. “Working with toy associations around the world, we are reaffirming our aspiration for toys to remain tariff-free globally.”
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to Bob Fuhrer for the cartoon this week!
Memorable Quotes: "When you're climbing Mount Everest, nothing is easy. You just take one step at a time, never look back and always keep your eyes glued to the top." - Jacqueline Susann, from "Valley of the Dolls"
Toy Industry Word of Day: 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!
Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary
Happiest of Birthdays to colleagues celebrating birthdays this past week!
Financial and Legal
The LEGO Group is suing a Dutch concrete mould manufacturer for using its brand name ‘in a way that leads to damage’. Betonblock’s website says its system of concrete block moulds is ‘similar to LEGO bricks’, drawing a line between the studs on top of LEGO elements and the studded system of its moulds, which ‘makes the blocks easy to stack’. The LEGO Group’s lawyer Jeroen Boelens argues this use infringes...
WHSmith is selling its UK high street business to Hobbycraft owner Modella Capital for £76m as it shifts its focus solely to its rapidly expanding travel retail division. The deal taking place later this year will see WHSmith‘s 480 high street stores, employing around 5,000 staff members, transitioning under Modella, with the current high street boss, Sean Toal, set to lead the newly formed retailer.
*** The above posted after tBR started circulating March 28th ***
Toy Association Leads Global Toy Industry in Advocating for Tariff-Free Toys. The Toy Association™ is working with associations around the world to reaffirm the industry’s commitment to keeping toys tariff-free.
China invites U.S. business leaders to Beijing as it tries to gauge Trump's plans. China courted the executives of major U.S. businesses at an annual conference this week in a sign of how Beijing seeks to offset trade pressures, rather than retaliate forcefully.
Trump pledges auto, pharma tariffs in 'near future,' sowing more trade confusion. President Donald Trump on Monday said he will soon announce tariffs targeting automobiles, pharmaceuticals and other industries, signaling his plans to pile more sweeping duties on top of his forthcoming “reciprocal tariffs.”
GameStop Board Votes to Add Bitcoin as Treasury Reserve Asset. The retail gaming destination also announced this update to its investment policy in a Form 10-K filed Tuesday with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), saying that a portion of its cash or future debt and equity issuances may be invested in bitcoin.
Amazon Seized More Than 15 Million Counterfeit Products in 2024. Amazon continued its fight against counterfeit goods in 2024 by using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, seeing that counterfeiters are held liable and increasing brands’ use of its brand protection features.
US expands export blacklist to keep computing tech out of China. The new restrictions announced by the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) are the latest attempt to block foreign access to cutting-edge American chips, despite prior objections from Nvidia and semiconductor industry groups.
Trump says tariffs coming in April will 'probably be more lenient than reciprocal'. President Donald Trump said that tariffs will likely be more “lenient than reciprocal,” as the April 2 tariff deadline looms for a number of levies to go into effect.
US plan to tax Chinese ships hits choppy waters as backlash intensifies. The US government is facing growing opposition over its plans to introduce steep fees targeting Chinese-linked ships entering American ports, with global shipping bodies and experts slamming the proposals as counterproductive.
Alliance Entertainment wins bidding for Diamond Comic Distributors. Diamond Comic Distributors has a new home. Pop culture distributor Alliance Entertainment has won the company’s assets through a court-supervised bankruptcy process.
Buffalo Games draws up acquisition of Boogie Board. Buffalo Games, a company known for puzzles and games, is acquiring Boogie Board, a leader in reusable drawing and writing tablets designed for creative play, arts and crafts, and educational purposes.
Rodeo FX acquires Mikros Animation. This acquisition includes all of Mikros Animations operations, plus Technicolor Canada’s equipment. However, the studio will retain its brand identity and continue working on its current projects, including the third PAW Patrol film, PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie.
Napster pioneered music sharing over 25 years ago. It just got bought for $207 million. A quarter century ago, Napster was notorious on the internet for allowing people to swap songs for free, long before the music industry had come up with a model for the digital age.
Virtual production studio Halon Entertainment invests US$36 million to open Glasgow studio. LA-based Halon Entertainment, which provides production services for feature films and final animation for video games, is investing US$36 million to open a new studio in Glasgow.
Walmart and Target Wrangling With Suppliers Following Tariffs. Walmart and Target are reportedly haggling with suppliers over proposed price hikes in the face of tariffs.
Proposed Texas law could ban RPGS in schools in attempt to ban Furries. A proposed Texas law that attempts to ban furries in public schools could effectively ban RPGs that include non-human characters. The law would ban students from presenting as non-human, or creating clubs related to such behavior.
Trump, Tariffs, Layoffs, & Price Hikes. Life in the business of play isn’t all fun and games, especially this year. While those within the toy industry and its adjacent realms know this well, the majority on the outside, including consumers, politicians, and legislators, are not aware of the nuances of the business.
China tariffs may be cut to seal TikTok sale, Trump says. US President Donald Trump says he may cut tariffs on China to help seal a deal for short video app TikTok to be sold by its owner ByteDance. Trump also said he was willing to extend a 5 April deadline for a non-Chinese buyer of the platform to be found.
Bioworld Merchandising acquires Character World Brands. Bioworld Merchandising, a leading global provider of lifestyle pop culture products, has announced the acquisition of Character World Brands, a leading European licensed home textile company.
Threat of Tariffs Forces 65% of CFOs Into Supplier Showdowns. Unlike multinational giants with deep pockets, and small businesses able to pivot quickly, mid-sized firms can find themselves in an awkward middle ground.
Tariffs are 'simply inflationary,' economist says: Here's how they fuel higher prices. There was an oft-repeated message in Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell’s recent press conference: Tariffs will raise consumer prices.
Recession is coming before end of 2025, generally 'pessimistic' corporate CFOs say: CNBC survey. The US economy will enter a recession in 2025, with Trump's tariffs leading top corporate CFOs to 'pessimism'.
Consumer expectations for future plunge to 12-year low on tariff anxiety. Consumers this month also grew more pessimistic about the outlook for price pressures. Expectations for inflation in 12 months has increased to 6.2%.
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Financial Reporting
Pop Mart released its financial report for 2024. The co continues to experience remarkable growth, with revenue surpassing 13 billion renminbi (RMB). This represents a year-on-year increase of 106.9%, along with an adjusted net profit of 4.4 billion RMB, up 185.9% compared to the previous year.
Toy Shares Sink After Trump Announces Reciprocal Tariffs. Shares of Mattel and Hasbro fell after President Trump unveiled a sweeping new tariff plan.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 28th ***
Toys R Us [Australia] auditors cast doubt on toy chain’s future after sales slump. Auditors of Toys R Us have cast doubts on the toy store chain’s future after it posted a slump in half-year sales. The company reported sales of just $3.1 million in the six months to the end of January.
Ultraman lifts Bloks Group to new heights in first post-IPO report. The toymaker’s shares have nearly doubled since their January trading debut, as its revenue also doubled last year despite losses.
Introduction to Alliance Entertainment history, operations, financials, and a look at what's next. Alliance Entertainment Holding Corp, which submitted the winning bid to acquire Diamond Comic Distributors, Alliance Game Distributors, and other assets, is a publicly traded company.
GameStop Closed Nearly 1,000 Stores. The store closings were concentrated in the U.S. and Europe. In the U.S., GameStop closed 590 stores, and had 2,325 as of February 1, 2025; in Europe, GameStop closed 337 of its 647 stores, leaving it with 311.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
Grown-ups are buying more toys than preschoolers — to the tune of $1 billion
*** The above posted after tBR circulated March 28th ***
Electronic Table Games Boom: The Next Big Play in the Casino Industry.
The 15 Best Mobile Games in 2025: Top iPhone and Android Games. From arcade classics to modern indie darlings, we've collected the best games you can carry in your pocket.
Best Buy Courts Influencers to Tap $32 Billion Creator Market. Best Buy is launching an influencer program, following a model popularized by Amazon and Walmart.
Inflation and Tariff Anxieties Spur Consumers to ‘Pull Forward’ Their Spending. Consumers are weighed down by concerns about tariffs and the state of their own financial conditions.
Gen Alpha tweens hold significant sway over parents’ purchases: study. Gen Alpha is emerging as a luxury-focused generation, with 68% owning a luxury product by the age of 10.
State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Brian Volk-Weiss, Nacelle. Brian Volk-Weiss, Founder and CEO of The Nacelle Company, discusses the company’s rapid growth across toys, publishing, and animation.
State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Cynthia Williams, Funko. Funko CEO Cynthia Williams sits down for a conversation about the company’s evolution, big wins, emerging trends, and the future.
State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Kotaro Hama, Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America. Kotaro Hama (BNTCA) discusses the company’s big wins and the outlook for the future.
8 trends defining influencer marketing in 2025. The influencer marketing continues to evolve rapidly, and staying ahead of the curve is essential for brands aiming to maximise their impact. In 2025, there are many top influence marketing trends that are set to shape the landscape.
Stories, Comments, and Advice
No batteries? Thinner packaging? US businesses look for ways to offset tariffs. Los Angeles-based toy company Abacus Brands Inc., which designs science kits and other educational toys, has most of its products made in China. By using slightly thinner paper in an 80-page project book that comes with two of its kits, the company expects to avert a $10 retail price increase, President Steve Rad said.
Minecraft is the world's best-selling computer game and soon to be a Hollywood film. This is why children can't get enough of it. AJ Minotti has three children – and they all love playing Minecraft. His twin girls aged 10 and his 6-year-old son are constantly building stuff with the endless supply of virtual blocks that fill the game. And Minotti, who works in marketing in Ohio, sometimes gets blown away with what they come up with.
John Baulch, ToyWorld - Something for everyone… it’s the Friday Blog! While for many it feels like Toy Fair Season has only just finished, and numerous suppliers are still waiting for retailers to finalise autumn winter selections, some key players from the global toy community will be heading to California in less than a month’s time for the first LA preview of the year. I won’t be there myself, so I will be interested to hear how...
Why Does Big Bird Look So Sad? Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit behind “Sesame Street,” is confronting what executives have described as a “perfect storm” of problems. Times are tough on Sesame Street. Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit responsible for Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster and the rest of the stars of “Sesame Street,” is confronting what executives have described as a “perfect storm” of problems.
Richard Wilkinson’s Star Wars Bugs. Brighton-based illustrator Richard Wilkinson blends our love of collecting with the richness of the natural world in a whimsical series of imaginary, Star Wars-inspired insects. Some of the visual analogies are subtle, like an all-black Darth Vader fly. But others, like a Yoda beetle, are charmingly familiar.
From the ToyBook Editor: Trump, Tariffs, Layoffs, & Price Hikes. Price increases and layoffs begin as consumer confidence slumps and uncertainty looms… While those within the toy industry and its adjacent realms know this well, the majority on the outside, including consumers, politicians, and legislators, are not aware of the nuances of the business. “You’d be hard-pressed to find another segment of the consumer...
5 years after pandemic lockdowns, is retail back to normal? Slowly but steadily, workplaces, schools and stores opened up again, and the National Retail Federation pinned its growth expectations to the vaccine rollout. Five years on, though, normal isn’t really happening.
Kids are craving an escape in the content they’re watching. According to new research from National Research Group and Young Storytellers in the US, kids ages six to 17 are very worried about the future, and they want to leave the real world behind when they have screentime.
OPINION: Leave room for the kid. In February, YouTube was the most-watched streaming service, with 11.6% of all TV viewing. That represents more than half of the total views of all US broadcast services. A substantial portion of those viewers are kids and teens, for whom YouTube is MeTV.
School Readiness – Is your brand part of the solution? With school readiness at the forefront of parental concerns, we are launching an expert-led School Readiness Campaign, offering brands a unique opportunity to support families while gaining significant industry exposure.
Backed by a comprehensive 360-degree strategy, the campaign highlights how play-based learning fosters essential skills such...
Learning is in session with these 32 educational toys. While many toys are made strictly for fun, others feature vital educational values. Kids can learn during playtime with products that feature STEM elements, tech literacy, critical thinking, MESH (Mental, Emotional, Social Health), and more.
Get some fun in the sun with these 42 outdoor toys. The weather’s getting warmer, and kids will soon be out on summer vacation. A great way to get some fresh air is to play with toys that encourage outdoor play, like water toys for the pool, sports toys, and ride-ons.
Big fun, small packages: 32 must-have impulse & novelty toys. Great items that won’t break the bank. From squishy fidgets to collectible miniatures, this year’s impulse and novelty toy lineup is packed with fun, affordable finds perfect for kids and collectors alike.
Stock This! 17 hot toys & games for your store this year. An assortment of new products that retailers should have on their radar. The 2025 edition of The BIG Toy Book features more than 600 new toys, games, and adjacent products that retailers should have on their radar to delight customers.
35 games for shared adventures & heated battles. Stock the shelves with games for the whole family. Family game night can always use new additions, whether it’s a trading card game, board game, engaging puzzle, or competitive sport.
33 preschool picks for parents, retailers, & more. Toys created for kids ages three and up are plentiful, but here are 33 new and upcoming toys and games for retailers to watch when searching for new products to delight preschool-aged little ones.
42 toys that prove you’re never too old to play. As kids grow up, they may no longer have a toy box in the corner of their room, but they never outgrow play. Instead, their toys become more complex or worthy of display on a shelf instead of in a playroom.
29 new toys & collectibles parked in the transportation hub. Any toy with wheels is a hit with kids of all ages, whether they’re pushing a toy car back and forth on the floor, speeding an R/C around a race track, or adding them to their collectible shelves.
Courcelette Students Design the Next "It" Toy with a Focus on Social Responsibility. In a unique challenge, Grade 7 students from Courcelette PS were tasked with designing the next big toy, but with a twist – each design had to incorporate social responsibility alongside innovative design thinking.
Spiders attend NYC Toy Fair. Eight students recently traveled with marketing professor Randy Raggio to the North American International Toy Fair at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. Their travel expenses were covered through a Richard Gottlieb Toy Entrepreneurship Grant.
Zigazoo dives into the minds of Generation Alpha. Today’s kids are on a new playing field. Generation Alpha, consisting of kids ages 7 to 15, is the most technology-savvy generation in history. Toys are unique, customizable, and more extraordinary than ever, all to cater to a new generation of kids.
History and Nostalgia
7 Things You Didn’t Know about Captain Kangaroo. Here are 7 things you may not know about television legend Bob Keeshan, a.k.a. Captain Kangaroo.
Scream’n Demons from Hasbro. Released in 1971, Scream’n Demons was a line of fast-moving motorcycle toys from Hasbro that was heavily influenced by the popularity of biker movies and culture at the time.
Early Birds from Parker Brothers. Released by Parker Brothers in 1989, Early Birds was a classic dexterity game where players battled their opponent to “snatch and grab the most squirmy worms” and place them in their worm nest.
Clue: Peanuts Edition from The Op Games. Just in time for the brand’s 75th anniversary, The Op Games, in collaboration with Hasbro, has something special for fans with the release of Clue: Peanuts Edition. This twist on the classic board game invites players into the world of Charlie Brown and friends.
Cast iron toys are the way to play. Leading a group of 21 clockwork tin toys by Althof Bergmann was this Santa in a sleigh pulled by goats, which was considered a Holy Grail, and a museum-worthy piece; one of its companions resides at the Strong Museum.
Licensing and Entertainment
Grammy award-winning rapper and producer Theron Thomas is working with Republic Records: Kids & Family to launch an album with his 12-year-old son, Sumo. Sumo’s World features educational lessons about handwashing, counting, the alphabet, and more with beats produced by Thomas, who has also worked with Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Usher, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Doja Cat, Lizzo, and more.
The J.M. Smucker Co. announced a licensing partnership with Pets + People (formerly Fetch for Pets) to create a new line of pet toys inspired by several of its leading brands, which includes Milk-Bone, Jif, Smucker’s and Meow Mix. This strategic partnership, facilitated by the company’s licensing agency Brand Central, marks an exciting expansion of these trusted brands into the pet toy category.
Walmart Digs Deeper Into Metaverse With Minecraft Partnership. Walmart is reportedly expanding metaverse efforts by teaming with virtual gaming world Minecraft. The retail giant is now running a limited-time interactive gaming experience dubbed “Skyward” on a Minecraft Java server.
Amazon’s new James Bond movie will be produced by Amy Pascal and David Heyman. Though it took Amazon MGM quite a while to wrest the James Bond franchise away from longtime producers Barbara Broccoli Michael G. Wilson, the studio has already found the duo’s replacements.
Smiffys announces new collaboration with Dr Seuss. Smiffys has announced a new licensing agreement with Dr. Seuss Enterprises that will see it create an officially licensed costume collection inspired by beloved Dr. Seuss stories.
Click gains UK distribution rights for Neopets Blind Plush. PhatMojo’s Neopets Blind Plush, which launched at specialty retailers in January 2025, sold out within hours in the US—a testament to the enduring love and enthusiasm of the Neopets community.
Mattel and Disney renew multi-year global licensing agreement for Toy Story. Mattel announced that it has renewed a multi-year global licensing agreement with Disney for new products commemorating Toy Story’s 30th anniversary and for the upcoming release of Toy Story 5 on 19th June 2026.
Build Your Own Bite with McDonald’s Minecraft Meals. A Minecraft Movie is almost here! While excitement builds for the new film, kids can open creative mode in real life with their favorite McDonald’s foods starting April 1 at McDonald’s restaurants worldwide.
A Coco sequel is in development at Pixar. Pixar’s acclaimed 2017 fantasy feature Coco (pictured) is the latest movie franchise from the Disney vault to have a sequel in the pipeline. CEO Bob Iger teased the project as being “in the initial stages” during the recent annual shareholders meeting.
Toonz gets “hangry” with Jay@Play. Hangry Petz will be a CG-animated take on characters from the plush collection, which had a soft launch last year, featuring house cat Bella and her tech-savvy bestie, Charlie Bulldog. The series is expected to launch in August on a dedicated YouTube channel.
‘Scooby-Doo’ Live-Action Show Ordered to Series at Netflix With Eight Episodes. First reported to be in development at Netflix in April 2024 with a script-to-series commitment, the show will delve into how Mystery Inc. and their beloved Great Dane first teamed up together.
Older viewers fuel YouTube move to no. 1 among TV distributors in February. YouTube commanded more TV time than any other media provider in the United States in February, and its top ranking was thanks in part to viewers over the age of 50.
Miraculous Corp widens its publishing footprint. Miraculous Corp, a joint venture between Mediawan and ZAG, is excited to announce a range of new publishing agreements and book launches based on the globally popular children’s franchise Miraculous.
Disney's Snow White film tops box office despite bad reviews. Disney's live-action version of the classic fairy tale Snow White has topped the North American box office chart despite underwhelming reviews. The movie has taken an estimated $87.3m (£67.5m) globally in its opening weekend.
Falcon descends upon 'Marvel Champions Card Game': New Hero Pack. Fantasy Flight Games will release Falcon Hero Pack, for Marvel Champions: The Card Game, into retail on June 20, 2025. The newest Marvel Champions: The Card Game Hero Pack features Sam Wilson, better known as Falcon.
Atomic Mass reveals two new 'Star Wars: Legion' expansions. Atomic Mass Games revealed two new Star Wars: Legion expansions, which will hit retail on May 23, 2025. The Clone Commander Cody character expansion brings the fan favorite leader to the battlefields of Star Wars: Legion.
Wizards of the Coast adds deets for 'Magic: The Gathering' 'Spongebob Squarepants' drop sets. Wizards of the Coast revealed the entire Our Boss is on Vacation Superdrop, a new wave of Magic: The Gathering Secret Lair drop sets, which will be available for preorder at 9 am PST on March 24, 2025.
2D minis for 'Marvel Multiverse RPG' from CMON. CMON will release two packs of 2D minis for the Marvel Multiverse RPG in April. Each includes 10 Acrylic standees of Marvel heroes and villains, with Collection Cards, for $14.99. Pack 1 features Iron Man on the box, and includes Acrylic standees for multiple heroes.
The 'Sesame Street' x 'Toys and Colors' collab your kids won't want to miss. Our friends over at Sesame Street are welcoming some newcomers to the block: The kids of beloved YouTube channel Toys and Colors are teaming up with the Muppets for a crossover episode.
WB may be looking to sell Looney Tunes brand after Coyote vs. Acme. Warner Bros. may now be looking to sell the entire Looney Tunes brand. Earlier this week, it was announced that Warner Bros. Discovery may finally be selling the distribution rights for Coyote vs. Acme to Ketchup Entertainment.
Bluey’s longest ever episode comes to CBeebies this Easter. The 28-minute special Bluey episode, ‘The Sign’, is set to land on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer on 18th April (Good Friday). Even more families across the UK will have the opportunity to enjoy this warm, heartfelt and extra-long episode of Bluey.
BBC Children’s unveils new commissions. In the mix are three new CBeebies titles, starting with I Spy, You Spy (26 x five minutes). Slated for a fall release, this show tags along with a puppet named Elsee as she travels across the UK taking in the sights in the countryside, the big cities and a few indoor spots.
Steven Yeun Joins Paramount’s Untitled Animated Aang ‘Avatar’ Film. Steven Yeun has joined the cast of Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies’ untitled animated Aang “Avatar” film. It’s not yet clear which of the Four Nations Yeun may hail from, as character details are being kept under wraps.
Marvel Unveils ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Cast With MCU Mainstays and ‘X-Men,’ ‘Fantastic Four’. Robert Downey Jr. returns to the MCU with other confirmed actors including stars Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston, 'X-Men' stars like Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, and 'Thunderbolts.'
Hasbro, Robosen unveil Auto-Converting Bumblebee collectible. Hasbro and Robosen Robotics have introduced a new addition to their line of interactive TRANSFORMERS robots: the Bumblebee G1 Flagship Series Auto-Converting Robot.
The LEGO Group drives up the Technic line with the addition of Monster Jam DIGatron.The JCB DIGatron is the latest addition to The LEGO Group’s Technic series. This release showcases JCB’s legacy of innovation to young builders and Monster Jam fans worldwide.
Master Replicas unveils new Star Trek collection. Models and collector books beam into stores July 2025. Master Replicas announced a new collection of Star Trek Starships, available in July. Under license from Paramount Consumer Products, the models are 4- to 5-inches long and include reference books.
Mill Creek Entertainment announces the launch of the free ad-supported streaming (FAST) ULTRAMAN Channel on Prime Video. Mill Creek Entertainment is excited to announce the launch of the Free Ad-supported Streaming (FAST) ULTRAMAN Channel, now available on Prime Video.
JAKKS Pacific [reveals] new Hogwarts House Robes. JAKKS Pacific‘s latest Harry Potter collection is too cool for school. In partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, the company is launching four premium robes for each of the Hogwarts houses.
Mo Willems expands publishing partnership. The Pigeon may be licensed, but he still can’t drive the bus. The two companies have agreed to a new 10-year agreement, which includes licensing for color and activity books, storybooks, readers, board books, workbooks, novelty formats, and more.
Marvel Unveils ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Cast With MCU Mainstays and ‘X-Men,’ ‘Fantastic Four’. Robert Downey Jr. returns to the MCU with other confirmed actors including stars Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston, 'X-Men' stars like Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, and 'Thunderbolts.'
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People of Play
Chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment and Studios Donna Langley Urges Theater Owners to “Deliver an Experience” Better Than Audiences Find at Home. Take Wednesday afternoon at CinemaCon as weary theater owners waited for Universal to present its upcoming slate. Instead of the usual speeches and industry shout-outs, she and her team started off the presentation with an orchestral presentation of...
Wyoming board game designer: Games are connection at play. Gracious in defeat, the Scrabble apprentice learned much more than which two-letter words begin with “e” and how to capitalize on a triple word score. By the time he was a teenager, Steve Curry had developed an enduring love for board games. Now 72 and living in Riverton, Curry has developed “about 35” original games.
*** The above posted after March 28th ***
He’s made a career out of toys, now this product developer wants to revolutionize them for Black kids. For three decades, toy designer David Vonner has turned musicians, comic book series and television programs into muscular action figures and collectors’ items. As product developer at ToyBiz, he created toy lines for Marvel Legends and Lord of the Rings. He went on to Hasbro, where he was responsible for....
Azhelle Wade's podcast: Have you ever wondered what it’s like to run a business with your spouse? Is it all fun and games, or does every dinner conversation turn into a boardroom meeting? Do you get to celebrate the wins together, or do you find yourself debating packaging details at 10 PM on a Friday? I was so curious about this dynamic that I sat down with Alex and Whitney Kimerling, the husband-and-wife team behin...
Young Inventor Challenge Results in Teen’s First Place Finish. Two years ago, during February break, Belmont resident Keegan Franck challenged himself to create a new game every day. Born from that challenge was a game he calls Endless, which earned him first place at the 2023 Young Inventor Challenge, a competition hosted by People of Play. A year later, he won the 2024 challenge in the Most Innovative category...
‘Don’t Think, Just Solve’. Max Park is a longtime speedcubing world record holder — for the 3x3x3 cube, his best official time is 3.13 seconds. Let's show you how he does it. Max solves the cube using a method developed by Jessica Fridrich in 1982. This method is now widely known as CFOP for its four stages...
Andmore Welcomes Scott Eckman as President. Andmore, a purveyor of the whole market experience named Scott Eckman President. He will assume the role on April 7. Andmore connects buyers and sellers in furnishing, gifts, and apparel.
Oscar-Winning Pixar Animator Pete Docter On 30 Years of ‘Toy Story,’ the Future of AI in Animation and New Sequel. Working on it, it was just a bunch of us nerds. It felt like working in our garage. It was not really fancy and a small team, so it was very casual and loose," the animator says.
Janine Weigold has left Netflix kids & family EMEA. Janine Weigold—an exec in Netflix’s kids & family international originals team for EMEA—has left the streamer. Weigold was responsible for sourcing original content from Europe for the streaming giant’s global kids & family audience.
‘One Piece’ Co-Showrunner Matt Owens Steps Down. In an Instagram post, Owens wrote that he is leaving the show to “focus on myself and my mental health.” One Piece recently finished filming its second season.
Companies and Brands
You Have to See These Toy Story Runway Looks That Take Cosplay to a New Level. Disney celebrated the Pixar classic turning 30 at Shanghai Fashion Week 2025. During a special designer showcase at Shanghai’s Fashion week 2025, Disney put on a celebration of Toy Story designer duds to commemorate the Pixar movie turning 30. Yes, 30… we can’t believe it either. Also staggeringly out of this world are the looks that hit the...
IMC Toys expand is expanding its Be Loved Babies brand. The Be Loved Babies Minis offer the same qualities consumers love about the Be Loved Babies but in a smaller size for travel-friendly experiences. Similar to the core dolls, the Be Loved Babies Mini line will feature baby-soft skin and squishy cheeks for a lifelike feel. These dolls are specifically designed for on-the-go play with cuddly bodies that stand 8.66 inches tall.
Teddy Mountain, the wholesale supplier of make-a-bear products for the leisure, tourism, entertainment, childcare, healthcare and education sectors, has launched in the UAE. “The launch of Teddy Mountain UAE is a tremendous milestone for our brand and for the entire global Teddy Mountain family,” said Ryan Davies, director at Teddy Mountain UK. “The MENA region is an untapped and underserved market for...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated March 28th ***
Target adds 2,000 products to baby assortment. The expansion of Target’s baby segment tracks with the retailer’s ongoing focus on advancing newness, style and value across its assortment. One-fourth of Target customers are shopping for baby-related items.
Five Below names chief marketing officer, hints at ‘selective’ price adjustments. Jacob Hawkins is joining the company from Forever 21 as the discount retailer is looking at its core price points. Five Below’s business reset, which began nearly a year ago, is working, analysts said this week.
MAGNA-TILES on The Today Show. Hottest toy trends for 2025: ‘Bluey’ Lego set, Koosh Kornhole, more. Stephanie Oppenheim, a TODAY contributor and co-founder of the Toy Portfolio, shares the hottest new products from this year’s Toy Fair in New York City, including a “Bluey” Lego set, The Original Koosh Kornhole and more!
Target tests new delivery method for Shipt drivers. Using Shipt drivers to deliver more brown box shipments from brick-and-mortar locations builds upon Target’s stores-as-hubs strategy, in which local stores are used to fulfill orders.
BuyBuy Baby to relaunch online in May. Nearly two months after BuyBuy Baby entered into a $5M purchase agreement that put it back with its former owner Bed Bath & Beyond, the baby retailer is staging a comeback.
Miniso struggles to impress investors, even with a successful ‘toy story’. People may put off buying in a slowing economy, but it seems they’re still willing to pay for more affordable joys like toys. The company is finding success with its Top Toy business, while its retail segment has become a drag.
YuMe Toys gears up for growth in 2025. YuMe Toys is gearing up for its most ambitious year yet, following two years of impressive growth. Kicking off 2025 with four major toy trade shows, the company is set for a dynamic year ahead.
LEGO Brings Middle-earth to Toy Shelves. The LEGO Group has created its own Lord of the Rings trilogy with its new set. The Lord of the Rings: The Shire brings builders to Hobbiton while joining Rivendell and Barad-dûr.
Dude Perfect goes for a kids-industry touchdown. Chief brand officer Chad Coleman says now is the "perfect" time to partner with the sporty brand, which already has a big YouTube presence and plans to grow with new content.
The Pokemon Company Announces 'Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals'. The Pokemon Company International announced Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, a new booster set for Pokemon TCG, which will hit stores on May 30, 2025.
Mattel Will Honor Its 80th Anniversary This Year by Giving Back 80+ Times - Gifts & Decorative Accessories. Toy and entertainment company Mattel is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a year-long philanthropic “celebration of its communities,” dubbing the celebration “80 Moments for 80 Years.”
The LEGO Group Invites Young Creators to Build and Imagine with Free 2025 Creativity Workshop Series. The LEGO Group is igniting imaginations and fostering valuable social skills with the launch of its 2025 series of free in-store and online workshops designed for young creators aged 6-12.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
Every ‘Assassin’s Creed’ Game, Ranked. From the slinking through the streets Renaissance-era Italy to sailing the high seas in the Golden Age of Piracy, Assassin's Creed has done it all — but some are better than others. For a series that’s ostensibly just about sneaking around and stabbing bad guys, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed has undergone more reinventions than most long-running franchises — from beloved innovations to...
7 cool indie games from GDC 2025. Some strange and fun things to look forward to. The Game Developers Conference, an annual gathering that brings thousands of game developers to San Francisco, has just wrapped up. While most of the event is about networking and interesting talks about game design and technology, there were also a bunch of unreleased indie games that we got to check out.
15 Awesome Trailers For Games That Never Came Out. When a trailer is released for a movie or a show, that usually means it’s coming out soon, but video games are another story, sometimes getting trailers years before they’re released. In some cases, though, they get cancelled after a trailer has already been made public. So, we pulled together some trailers for games that never came out, whether due to cancellation...
Meta Quest might add single window screensharing in VR soon. A yet-to-be-launched “share” feature for Meta Quest VR headsets might have been spotted inside the operating system’s code. The new feature might allow you to share views of single 2D windows on your headset with other Quest users.
Nvidia’s AI assistant is here to optimize your gaming PC. Nvidia’s G-Assist was originally an April Fools’ prank in 2017 before becoming a real tech demo last year and a functioning AI assistant for RTX GPU owners today. Project G-Assist is now available inside the Nvidia app, and will help to optimize game and system settings.
PS5 owners really want to play Xbox games, as Microsoft tops Sony’s preorder charts. If you’re looking for some solid evidence that Microsoft’s strategy to bring Xbox games to PS5 is seeing some early success, look no further than Sony’s own PlayStation Store today.
Game Informer has officially returned. Game Informer is back, and so is its entire staff. On Tuesday, editor-in-chief Matt Miller announced that Gunzilla Games has acquired the rights to the gaming magazine, helping to bring the site and its archives back online.
How Assassin's Creed Shadows strengthened Ubisoft's process for bringing history to life. Creative director Jonathan Dumont explains how the need to 'be humble' helped Ubisoft Quebec bring feudal-era Japan to life in a whole new way.
Activision user research workers are unionizing 'to create an industry that works for them'. A supermajority of user research workers at Activision have voted to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA) banner.
Why bloated budgets mean open world games are starting to think small – but mighty. After years of soaring costs and ever-expanding maps, open world games are getting smaller, and developers are creating richer landscapes in the process.
Nintendo Switch 2 will reportedly launch in June with an emphasis on first-party games. With only a week to go until the Switch 2's big Nintendo Direct showcase, there’s new reporting about when the console will launch and some of what players can expect from the hardware’s first six months.
Minecraft is getting a major visual upgrade, flying mounts, and my favorite quality of life feature in years. 2025 is going to be a neat year for Minecraft. Not only is the crafting game moving to more frequent feature drops, it’s also getting flying mounts and a boost to its more than decade-old graphics.
‘PAC-MAN Live Experience’ opens in Manchester. A new experience has opened in Manchester, bringing the nostalgia of PAC-MAN to life. Bandai Namco Entertainment, in collaboration with Little Lion Entertainment, has launched the “PAC-MAN Live Experience” at Manchester's Arcade Arena.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond’s new trailer is an intro to its alien world. Nintendo unveiled a new trailer for the game that serves as an introduction of sorts, showcasing the alien world you’ll be exploring along with Samus’ various abilities, including new psychic powers that work in combat and puzzle solving.
Nintendo introduces new lending system for digital Switch games. Coming in an April system update, Nintendo is introducing a new game management system called “virtual game cards.” Virtual game cards are meant to function similarly to physical ones.
Embracer studio Crystal Dynamics has laid off 17 workers. The Embracer-owned studio said the layoffs are "not a reflection of the dedication or ability of those affected" but will help the company realign to meet its "current business needs."
New Rhythm Heaven game announced at Nintendo Direct. Rhythm Heaven Groove looks to be what it says on the tin: a head-boppin’ rhythm RPG that has players clicking to the beat to get to the next level. In true Rhythm Heaven form, the game will have tons of mini-games, but also test your sense of timing.
Nintendo launches new mobile app to speak directly with players. The app was announced by Shigeru Miyamoto during a bumper Nintendo Direct and is billed as a "new channel based on the concept of delivering information to [players] directly."
Pokémon Legends: Z-A’s gameplay will change depending on the time of day. Real time day / night cycles have been featured in a lot of Pokémon titles since the Gold and Silver era, but Pokémon Legends: Z-A is going to take the classic mechanic in a wild new direction.
Subway Surfers cruises into partnership with Crossy Road. The collab is a first for Subway Surfers. Mobile game companies SYBO and Hipster Whale, the studios behind Subway Surfers and Crossy Road, are partnering to merge the two universes.
Atomfall: How a forgotten nuclear disaster inspired a video game. Fukushima. Three Mile Island. Chernobyl. Places that will forever be remembered as the sites of nuclear disasters. Most people will have heard of them. But fewer are aware of the Windscale fire.
Highlighted Press Releases
($100/week/press release)
Safety and Counterfeiting
Popular children's toy is urgently recalled over 'serious risk' that it could suffocate kids. A toy has been recalled from a discount retailer over a 'serious risk' of suffocation. The Easter-themed plushie has been taken off shelves at all Home Bargains stores with the retailer offering a refund to buyers.
Cuddly but Costly: The unseen dangers of fleece in kids clothes and toys. It’s not just the fleece sweater. It’s the fleece stuffed animals and lovies my kid sleeps with, cuddled up under his chin throughout the night. It’s also the blankets, hats and pants.
Nonprofit demands investigation into sensory toy after reports of blisters, chemical burns. Consumer Reports is urging the Consumer Product Safety Commission to investigate a popular sensory toy after reports of injuries and hospitalizations among children.
Low-cost drone add-ons from China let anyone with a credit card turn toys into weapons of war. As with any popular gadget type, there's a whole ecosystem of niche, wacky, and comical add-ons available for drones. But the more Red Balloon CEO Ang Cui thought about it, the more unsettled he and his colleagues became.
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Get in Front of Consumers and Media this November at CHITAG™ Fair. As families gear up for the holiday season, People of Play™, a division of The Toy Association™, presents the Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG) from November 8 to 9 in Rosemont, IL, offering toy and game companies a unique opportunity to connect.
The Toy Association™ & Clamour Open Submissions for Spring 2025 Influencer Choice List. Founded in 1916, The Toy Association, Inc. is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses that design, produce, license, and deliver toys and youth entertainment products for kids of all ages.
Toy Fair® Media Impressions Reach 3.5 Billion: Read the Recap Report. The Toy Association’s Toy Fair® 2025 Media Recap is now available. The report provides insight into global media coverage for the largest toy tradeshow in the Western Hemisphere, which took place March 1 to 4 in New York City.
BEYBLADE X Universe Expands on BEYBLADE Day to Announce World Championship and Exciting Products. 3, 2, 1, let it rip! Today's BEYBLADE Day recognizes the global phenomenon that is BEYBLADE X. To celebrate, ADK Emotions NY Inc. and T-Licensing Inc. announced the BEYBLADE X World Championship 2025 will be kicking off worldwide in April and culminating at the final championship tournament in Tokyo...
London Card Show returns with star-studded lineup. Following the overwhelming success of its previous sold-out shows, the UK’s largest trading card event is expanding once again, this time to a three-day spectacle, featuring over 1,000 tables and an expected 8,500+ attendees.
Animation Dingle Awards celebrate rising Irish and global talent. The 13th Animation Dingle Festival put the spotlight on up-and-coming creatives in animation on Friday at its annual RTÉjr Animation Dingle Awards ceremony.
Outdoor Toy Awards 2025 now open for entry. Testing will take place in the first week of June with the winners and other commendations being announced by 10th June. As the sun finally makes an appearance, the team is looking forward to a healthy year for the outdoor toy market.
Super celebrates major awards win as it announces expansion and new hires. Super – a media/ creative agency specialising in Skills campaigns – was last night awarded ‘Education & Learning Sponsorship Campaign of The Year 2025’ at the annual Sponsorship Awards.
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
Lori Rubin, (from her ToyBook colleagues) a cherished member of the Adventure Media & Events family who served as our Controller for more than a decade. After fighting through a cancer diagnosis for more than a year and a half, Lori passed away on March 26 with her loving husband and two daughters by her side. Known in our office as “Mama Lori,” she treated everyone at our company like family. A fierce protector, she always led with her heart, took an interest in our lives, and shared so many special moments with each of us.
Philip Moore. The owner of beloved independent toy store Howley’s Toymaster passed away after a battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Phil started work on Weymouth beach when he was 14, staying with extended family before his parents moved to the south coast.
Sir Torquil Norman CBE, founder of Bluebird Toys, which first brought the Polly Pocket brand and other iconic lines such as The Big Yellow Teapot to the toy market, has died aged 91.
Thomas Lee, EA alum and strategic advisor, a business development director and executive producer at several studios, recently passed away from cancer. He was 59.
Dave Mallow, a longtime voice actor across games and animation, has died at 76. For many, Mallow was best known as the voice of Baboo on Power Rangers and Angemon in the first two seasons of Digimon.
Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories
Some Added Friday Morning Chicago Time. Check Back for Complete Lists.
Toy Trade Monthly Issues
Adventure Media & Events (US)
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From the Editor: Trump, Tariffs, Layoffs, & Price Hikes (The Toy Book)
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25 Inclusive Toys for Autism Awareness Month (The Toy Insider)
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State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Cynthia Williams, Funko (The Toy Book)
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State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Kotaro Hama, Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America (The Toy Book)
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State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Brian Volk-Weiss, Nacelle (The Toy Book)
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Hot for ’25: 100+ Toys and Games to Stock This Year (The Toy Book)
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Alliance Entertainment Acquires Diamond Comic Distributors Assets (The Toy Book)
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Miraculous Corp Widens its Publishing Footprint (The Toy Book)
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Buffalo Games Draws Up Acquisition of Boogie Board (The Toy Book)
Toyworld (UK)
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Mattel and Disney renew multi-year global licensing agreement for Toy Story
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Super celebrates major awards win as it announces expansion and new hires
Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld
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Bliss Distribution to join Legend Story Studios as distributor for Flesh and Blood TCG
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Master Replicas and Paramount collaborate on new Star Trek collection
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Natural History Museum announces collaboration with West Design Products
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BLE nominates Sebby’s Corner as an official charity partner for 2025
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- New 'Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection' Incoming
- Wizards of the Coast Adds Deets for 'Magic: The Gathering' 'SpongeBob SquarePants' Drop Sets
- New 'Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG' Core Booster Set Incoming
- Alliance Entertainment to Acquire Diamond Assets
- heo Group Reveals New ' Secret Lair X SpongeBob' 'Squaroes' Deck Box
- Introduction to Alliance Entertainment History, Operations, Financials
- 'Gloomhaven 2E' Heads to Retail
- GameStop Closed Nearly 1,000 Stores
- The Pokemon Company Announces 'Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals'
- 2D Minis for 'Marvel Multiverse RPG'
Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)
Global Toy News
The Bugg Report (Australia)
The Toy Universe (Australia)
hobbyDB
Toy Store (Italy)
Video of the Week!
Lilo & Stitch | Official Trailer
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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: Evan Kale
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
