Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
Why do I keep mentioning the Young Inventor Challenge? Because these participants were exceptional when they competed as kids, and they’re exceptionally exceptional now as adults! These photos of Carlyle and Nick are from when they won the YIC over 10 years ago. This week, we’re highlighting their journeys and celebrating them as Young Inventor Challenge Legacies.
CLICK HERE to make an investment in the future (just $20)—the next generation will support and inspire us! And... it is our 20th Anniversary of the Young Inventor Challenge!
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Mary and the POP Team
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Person of the Week: Carlyle Skelton, SCAD Student
When I am Done, I Only Wish to have Contributed to the Cherished Memories of Children Worldwide
Hi Carlyle! Thank you for joining us at our TFNY Connolly's Pub event and taking time for this interview! How did you get involved in the Young Inventor Challenge 10 years ago?
When I was around 10 years old, my parents decided to take my siblings and me to Chicago for vacation. Being from Georgia, this was a huge deal and my parents told us to make an itinerary of things we would like to do. Of course, the top of my list was immediately the Museum of Science and Industry, and anything after that was whatever else my siblings wanted to do. But then my mom brought up the Chicago Toy and Game Fair and that was my new top priority.
We were a couple of months out from our big trip, so my mom encouraged me to enter into the Young Inventor Challenge. I decided to look at the past competition on my iPod and immediately got to thinking about what I could do that would “wow” the competition and amuse myself. I figured kids were already so glued to their devices that it would be good to combine toys and iPhones to create a new experience. Therefore, I made (out of playdough) a digital pet that used the iPhone/iPod as a face. I’m pretty sure something like that has long existed by now, but man, I should have gotten that patented.
Person of the Week - Nick Metzler aka Doodles
"I'll see you on the big screen playing for a million bucks Friday April 11th, on Hulu's "Got To Get Out!" Read More on Deadline...
Toy Companies Unite to Contribute $1.3 Million in Support for Children in Need through The Toy Foundation™
TA President/CEO Greg Ahearn and TA BOD President & President of Build-A-Bear Sharon Price John
There is immense positive impact when the toy industry unites behind The Toy Foundation™ to deliver the power of play to children when they need it most. Last week, during the 25th Anniversary Toy of the Year® (TOTY®) Awards and throughout Toy Fair®, both held in New York City, $1.3 million in toy donations and financial contributions were generously donated by the toy community in support of children in need around the world.
Play is more than fun and games; it provides comfort, joy, and hope, and it is critical for all children to have access to play. As the philanthropic arm of The Toy Association™, The Toy Foundation is the only toy industry-wide initiative uniting the philanthropy of companies of all sizes to benefit children. To date, The Toy Foundation has delivered play to 35 million children in under-resourced communities, affected by disasters, and undergoing medical treatment, bringing them immeasurable comfort during difficult times.
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to the person who wishes to remain anonymous for the cartoon this week!
Memorable Quotes: "A step backward, after making a wrong turn, is a step in the right direction.” – KURT VONNEGUT, PLAYER PIANO
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
Canadian Devs Are Backing Out of Attending GDC. Amid deteriorating relations between the US and Canada, many Canadian video game developers are opting not to travel to San Francisco for next week’s Game Developers Conference. Every year, several key gaming events take place in the US, including DICE, PAX West and PAX East, Summer Games Fest, and GDC; it was also the home of the now defunct E3.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
2024 was Kickstarter’s biggest year yet. Here are the creators who raised $706 million. In mid-2024, Kickstarter highlighted how more creators are using its platform to crowdfund projects that are offshoots of their usual content. YouTube animator CircleTunesHD raised $729,197 to bring his fantasy tabletop game Fool’s Blade to life. Then there’s YouTuber and inventor Simone Giertz, who raised nearly $1.2 million...
Walgreens to be acquired in $10B take-private deal. The struggling retail pharmacy chain’s nearly 100-year run as a public company could end following an agreement to be purchased by private equity firm Sycamore Partners. The private equity firm will pay $11.45 per share in cash for Walgreens, giving the company an equity value of about $10 billion. But shareholders could earn another $3 per share based on...
Court rules to not hold up the Paramount and Skydance merger. But Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick will still consider an injunction presented by a collective New York City pension group before the merger's end date on April 7. A Delaware judge has declined to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) yesterday that would have stalled the US$8-billion merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media.
France’s Mediawan has finalized a deal to acquire a 51% majority stake in London- and Sydney-based production company See-Saw Films. Financial terms have not been made public, but this acquisition should buoy See-Saw by providing it with access to more financing and sales capabilities under the growing auspices of Mediawan’s conglomerate, as well as opening up more co-pro opportunities with some...
Disney Animation workers ratify their first union contract. With a strong 96% eligible voter turnout, the new agreement was accepted with 93% in favor. Production management workers at Burbank’s Walt Disney Animation Studios have ratified their first union contract. Represented by The Animation Guild/IATSE Local 839, this milestone moment has been two years in the making.
Toys are expected to cost more by fall due to new US tariffs on Chinese imports. Toy Association CEO Greg Ahearn expects price increases of 15% to 20% on games, dolls, cars, and other toys by the back-to-school shopping season.
Disney is absolved of wrongdoing in its Moana lawsuit. A jury has ruled that the team behind the 2016 film did not have access to animator Buck Woodall's script or outlines, which he claims were copied.
Tariffs on Imports from China Rise to 20% as Mexico & Canada Paused Until April 2. President Trump has announced a delay in tariffs on goods imported from Mexico and Canada until April 2.
ILA & USMX to Sign 6-Year Master Contract Today. The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) are set to sign their six-year master contract agreement.
Sale of WHSmith down to two bidders. WHSmith is reported to be making progress on the sale of its high street business. According to Sky News, just two bidders remain in contention to acquire the retailer’s store portfolio.
SAG-AFTRA calls out 'alarming loopholes' in AI proposals from major game studios. Striking voice performer union SAG-AFTRA claims negotiations with major video game studios continue to stall due to "alarming loopholes" in proposals that would leave members open to AI abuse.
52Toys taps China’s designer toy boom in play for Hong Kong IPO. Once known as a cruel villain in Disney’s animated film “Toy Story 3,” Lots-O’-Huggin’ Bear, or Lotso, with his pink fur, big plum nose, and signature strawberry scent, has now become a darling of young toy collectors in China.
Consumer outlook sinks as recession fears take hold. Consumers are growing increasingly pessimistic about their financial future as a wave of economic uncertainty takes hold.
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Financial Reporting
Board game crowdfunding major CMON issues profit warning, says losses could exceed $2m for 2024.
The hobby games market stabilized in 2024, after the huge surge in sales during the Covid pandemic and the changes to the market after the pandemic ended. The result was a solid year with sales at a continuing high level, still roughly 70% higher than they were in 2019.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
The Lego Group delivers record top- and bottom-line results in 2024. The company achieved record revenue and operating profit, outpacing the toy market with significant market share gains.
Dick's Sporting Goods is latest retailer to forecast rocky 2025 as recession fears swirl. Dick's Sporting Goods issued weak guidance for 2025 as consumers contend with tariffs, persistent inflation and fears around a potential recession.
Stonemaier sales were $23.7 million in 2024, up 42% from $16.7 million in 2023, a second down year after a big year in 2021, when sales were $24.7 million
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
THE TEN MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES 202
The Best and Biggest Video Games of 2025 So Far, According to NPR Staff and Contributors
FULL YEAR 2024 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN – TOP 20 MANGA GRAPHIC NOVELS
FULL YEAR 2024 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN – TOP 20 AUTHOR AND SUPERHERO GRAPHIC NOVELS
*** the above posted after tBR circulated March 14th ***
Best of the Best Toy Fair 2025: BestReviews gives awards to 13 top toys.
In a fascinating study, we have explored how social media is reshaping children’s language. The analysis of over 43,000 stories submitted by 5-11-year-olds to the BBC 500 Words 2024 competition highlights intriguing trends in vocabulary and themes.
TOP 20 MANGA GRAPHIC NOVELS – FULL YEAR 2024 (UNITS & DOLLARS)
The latest roles from the Toy World recruitment section. Curious Universe, Huggables, Sinco and The Brand Department are the latest companies to advertise job vacancies.
Exclusive: UK March’s Circana insights. Rory Partis from Circana expects 2025 to be a good year for the toy market, with consumers expected to seek out an increase in everyday value over promotions.
Retail Layoffs Surge As Retailers Adjust To Mounting Economic And Profitability Pressures. Retail job outlook is bleak as retailers have announced over 45,000 layoffs to date, nearly 7 times more than last year, and store closures will far outpace openings.
How Brands Are Expanding Beyond Stores To Deliver Immersive Retail. Brands are increasingly leveraging pop-ups, and hospitality concepts to bring a new dimension to their retail offerings centered around engagement and immersion.
New Bricks Hitting The Toy Aisles As Companies Compete With Lego. Lego is the unmatched leader in the construction category, but two new bricks brands are aiming for a piece of its market share.
State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Zack Farber, RMS. Zack Farber, CEO of RMS USA, discusses how the company is making a splash in the U.S. this year with great products at competitive prices.
State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Isaac Larian, MGA Entertainment. The company behind L.O.L. Surprise! and Little Tikes takes on the action aisle and makes plans for the future.
22 New Products Joining the Action Aisle This Year. This showcase features upcoming action figures, playsets, collectibles, and more that kids can use to bring some excitement to playtime.
Retailers to continue frontloading amid tariff tumult: forecast. A sustained cargo surge at U.S. ports will continue as Trump administration policy uncertainty continues, per the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates' Global Port Tracker.
A blend of comfort and connection, plush toys capture young consumers' hearts. In the traditional toy industry, plush toys have always been linked to childhood, with interest fading once consumers hit 18. But that's no longer the case.
Spotlight on Science and Nature. As consumer demands and technologies evolve, the Science and Nature category is also adapting to new and innovative play patterns.
‘Pokemon TCG’ Turns on the Afterburners; Best of the Rest are Caught in its Jet Wash. TCGplayer Top 25 Sealed TCG Products Chart Analysis for February 2025
February 2025 Circana Bookscan - Top 20 Adult Graphic Novels. Two Second Volumes Point to Strong Manga Debuts.
Stories, Comments, and Advice
NYC parents are pushing to level the playing field — between chess kids and student athletes. The Citywide Council on High Schools on Wednesday called on the Public School Athletic League to recognize chess as a sport. The PSAL currently oversees 25 sports in city high schools, from football, basketball and baseball to soccer, table tennis and double Dutch.
Sending Children's Art to the Moon + Book Publication. Historic Moon Mission. Your child's artwork will be permanently etched and sent to the lunar surface on LifeShip's historic Lunar Pyramid Capsule mission! This isn't just art class - it's a chance to be part of human history preserved on the Moon for generations to come. Children join our guided virtual workshop where they'll explore space concepts, create visionary...
How Alabama students went from last place to rising stars in math. "We wanted to bring math alive," says Julie West, who was hired during the tumult of the pandemic to lead a districtwide math makeover. A new roadmap for teachers, along with some toys. "Instead of working out problems and models on the page," West says, "let's get 'em out and let the kids touch them. Hold them. Manipulate them."
*** The above posted after March 14th when tBR circulated ***
John Baulch, Toy World - A catalogue of chaos … it’s the Friday Blog! Several people asked me why I didn’t mention tariffs in my review of the New York Toy Fair last week. Predominantly, this was because I was already over the wordcount – and the tariff situation isn’t something you can sum up in a brief paragraph. In addition, I was – and remain – concerned that anything I write about tariffs on a Thursday afternoon could...
What’s Up With Lamb Chop? by Christopher Byrne. Shari Lewis’ Lamb Chop is currently the #1 dog toy, at least according to a recent article in the NY Post. How this happened, nobody quite knows, but there it is. The Post article indicates that this has all the makings of a fad among pet parents, including photos of dogs with many Lamb Chop toys.
NASA's Artemis 2 crew wants your help designing the plush toy that will fly with them around the moon. The first astronauts preparing to fly to the moon in more than 50 years want your help identifying their fifth crew member — their "moon mascot." NASA's Artemis 2 crew is seeking an original idea for their zero-g indicator (ZGI), a stuffed toy or doll that will be suspended from a tether in their Orion spacecraft to...
DEI Is Disappearing in Hollywood. Was It Ever Really Here? As Trump cracks down on diversity and inclusion policies, studios are at a crossroads with some observers questioning how effective the benchmarks were to begin with. If Hollywood’s answer to Donald Trump’s first months at the White House in 2017 was resistance, the 2025 edition so far appears more muted and a tad indifferent.
Are Family Vloggers Really Leaving California to Avoid Paying Their Kids? After a handful of California-based family influencers announced they were ditching the Golden State for Tennessee, other folks on the internet shared a theory: What if the reason they were leaving was because of a new child-labor law that requires parents to put a percentage of their earnings into a trust?
Five Ways Exhibitors at Toy Fair Stood out in a Sea of Playfulness. The first visual we laid eyes on at Toy Fair 2025 in NYC, March 1-4, was a larger-than-life Rubik’s cube suspended in the air and surrounded by disco lights and bumping music. There was something about a handheld toy that has transcended generations, blown up in epic proportions, that activated the joy meter for this geriatric millennial. And there was...
Kids aren't invited to Toy Fair. But the industry expo can tell us a lot about the playthings they'll be asking for. Toy Fair, which is all about “the business of play,” is for adults' eyes only; more specifically, it’s for the toy industry insiders who come together once a year to network, talk shop and exchange information on the latest toy trends.
Teaching students with autism, ADHD starts with play. There’s more than one way to follow the stepping stones of progress, and kids of all abilities can make their own path, experts say. A small collection of private and public education providers in Kitsap County came together March 1 for Bainbridge Island’s first Neurodiversity Symposium, a networking and supportive learning event for families with neurodivergent children.
I Attended NY Toy Fair, and I’m Calling It: These 11 New Toys Will Be on Every Kid’s Wish List. A Squishmallows crochet kit, family board games, and more toys your kid will be asking for.
Mike’s Tariff Update: Indecision May or May Not Be The Problem. For those of you taking notes, here’s a summary of tariffs over the past few weeks.
March 2025 State of Freight. A little over 2 months into 2025 and it’s already been a rollercoaster ride! Here’s what’s been going on so far in the state of freight!
Tariffs are 'lose-lose' for U.S. jobs and industry, economist says: 'There are no winners here'. Tariffs aim to insulate certain sectors from foreign competition. But evidence shows they often end up losing U.S. jobs.
From chatbots to intelligent toys: How AI is booming in China. Money is pouring into AI businesses seeking more capital, fuelling domestic competition.
History and Nostalgia
A Utah resident’s Hot Wheels collection is so vast, it caught Mattel’s attention. Ian Weber has around 5,000 Hot Wheels cars in his collection. The three-time American Ninja Warrior competitor’s collection started growing when he got into customizing the cars nearly two decades ago. The awards that adorn the walls come from customizing Hot Wheels at different conventions around the country...
Vintage Toy Demonstration: Charlie Choo-Choo from Child Guidance (1959). Charlie Choo-Choo from Child Guidance was an action pull-toy for children ages one to three.
Land of the Lost from Milton Bradley. Released in 1975 from Milton Bradley, Land of the Lost board game was adapted from the Sid and Marty Krofft science-fantasy television series that ran from 1974-1976.
Gilligan’s Floating Island from Playskool. Released in 1977 from Playskool, the Gilligan's Floating Island playset inspired children to recreate scenes from the Gilligan's Island television series and use their imaginations to create their own desert island scenarios.
'Disturbing' 19th Century German toys sell for £192k. More than 400 German toys dating from the 19th Century have sold at auction for almost £200,000.
The five most expensive LEGO sets of all time. If you happen to have any of these LEGO kits in your collection, you might be sitting on plastic brick gold!
Archaeologists unearth ancient clay puppets with open mouths and detachable heads that ‘resemble modern toy dolls’. The five carved figurines are about 2,400 years old, and they may help shed new light on an ancient Mesoamerican society.
Licensing and Entertainment
‘Leprechaun whisperer’ teams with Barbie maker for children’s series. Kevin Woods has teamed with Mattel in securing €8 million in funding for a children’s TV series. Those involved include a former Disney exec, the creator of Bob the Builder, a one-time Ireland ambassador to the US, and Woods himself, with their series tapping into a worldwide recognition of Irish legends that is reinforced every St Patrick’s Day.
Sony Pictures Debuts Licensing Rollout for Season 2 of ‘The Last of Us’. In line with the global trailer release, and ahead of the HBO Original series premiere date on April 13, Sony Pictures Consumer Products reveals the first product lineup inspired by the second season of “The Last of Us.” The comprehensive collection captures key themes from the storyline, such as love and loss, and incorporates unique...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
Upper Deck launches DC trading card collection. Upper Deck has released its inaugural DC trading card set – DC Annual, marking the first full DC Comics-based set available for purchase through the company’s collaboration with Warner Bros.
Revell invites Stranger Things fans to enter the Upside Down. New for 2025 and also an all-new tooling, Jim Hopper´s Chevy Blazer K5 is a Level 4, 1:25 scale model kit for intermediate builders.
Disney unveils live-action Lilo & Stitch trailer. The trailer gives a detailed look at what Stitch will look like and a sneak peek at what audiences can expect from the 120-minute film.
Tamagotchi, Bandai Namco partners with Angel City Football Club. Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America becomes the first major toy sponsor of an American professional women’s soccer team.
TOMY embarks on global toy partnership with Momiji. TOMY International is set to launch new toy lines with Momiji, a brand known for its collectible friendship dolls.
Snow White premiere relocated to remote Spanish castle as Disney 'scales back' promo for scandal-hit film. Film bosses are said to have originally planned glitzy events around the world to mark the release of the $269.4 million live action remake.
Panini partners with Ed Sheeran and Ipswich Town. A limited edition Ipswich Town sticker will be gifted to fans at Portman Road on Saturday 17th March.
LEGO's rumored $1,000 Death Star set will reportedly include more than 40 Minifigures. More details relating to a new Death Star set supposedly releasing this year have leaked.
Jon Favreau preps an Oswald the Lucky Rabbit series. Veteran filmmaker Jon Favreau (Iron Man) is spearheading the development of a new series in the works for Disney+ that will adapt an IP that’s nearly 100 years old.
‘Stumble Guys’ Starts New Season with the Return of Looney Tunes. “Stumble Guys,” the action-packed game acquired by Scopely in 2022, is starting its latest season with a new theme: “Cowboys & Ninjas.”
The LEGO Group debuts Disney ‘Beauty and the Beast’ castle set. The LEGO Group, in collaboration with The Walt Disney Company, has unveiled the LEGO Disney “Beauty and the Beast” Castle Set.
Yoto Expands its Library with New Harry Potter Audiobooks. Yoto offers kids a new way to discover the magic of reading. After successfully adding Harry Potter to the platform last fall, the company is heading back to Hogwarts for a new series of kid-friendly audiobooks.
Bad Crow Games reveals 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' board game: 'Journey of Aang'. In Avatar: Journey of Aang, releasing in 2025, players assume roles of Aang's companions as they guide him on a quest to restore balance to the world.
Ultra Pro brings back 'Fine Art: The Great Wave Off Kanagawa' accessories: New playmat, deck box, and sleeves. One of the most popular accessories series that Ultra PRO has released in recent history was their Fine Art series.
These ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ LEGO Sets Are Far from Extinction. Families can dino-soar into building adventures with new playsets inspired by Universal Pictures’ Jurassic World Rebirth.
LEGO Levels Up: Celebrate MAR10 Day with New Super Mario Kart Set. Nintendo fans can celebrate MAR10 Day with a new set from The LEGO Group. The LEGO Super Mario: Mario Kart set is available for preorder and ships May 15.
Spin Master Renews Licensing Partnership for ‘Gabby’s Dollhouse’. Children’s entertainment company Spin Master is renewing its global master toy licensing agreement with Universal Products & Experiences for DreamWorks Animation’s Gabby’s Dollhouse.
Moonbug, Build-A-Bear Launch ‘CoComelon’ Collection. The first ever collection includes a “CoComelon”-themed sleeper and T-shirt for stuffed animals, along with interactive 2-in-1 sound chips featuring popular nursery rhymes like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” and “Old MacDonald.”
Major Movement with The Wiggles. The Wiggles is preparing for its 35th anniversary with new consumer products, a tour and more.
Bulldog Announces Apparel and Accessories Deal for BEYBLADE X. Following its appointment by ADK Emotions NY and T-Licensing as U.K. and Ireland licensing agent for BEYBLADE X, Bulldog Licensing has announced its first licensing partnership for the toy brand.
Wizards of the Coast announced Magic Presents: Pride. Magic Presents: Pride events will occur during Pride Month, between the dates of June 27, 2025 and June 29, 2025.
Mattel x G-SHOCK Collaborate on Limited-Edition Barbie-Inspired GMA-S110BE Watch. Mattel has partnered up with G-SHOCK for a limited-edition GMA-S110BE timepiece inspired by Barbie.
Nickelodeon explores blended family life in Wylde Pak. This original 2D-animated comedy series marks the second project to be greenlit from the US kidsnet's shorts incubation program.
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People of Play
Relatable, the company behind What Do You Meme?, Emotional Support Pals, and Buzzed has hired Casey Collins as its Chief Commercial Officer. Collins has an extensive background in entertainment, licensing, and gaming; he will steer the company toward new opportunities in digital experiences, global expansion, and strategic partnerships.
Azhelle Wade's Exclusive Interview with Thin Air Brands. Inspired by a thought-provoking LinkedIn post from Mike Searls, founder of Thin Air Brands, we sat down for a post-Toy Fair deep dive into how these tariffs will shake up the toy industry. Mike brings over 30 years of experience to the conversation, and he’s seen the industry survive some major shake-ups before.
Magic: The Gathering creator Richard Garfield on designing Vanguard Exiles so you could play with dice if your computer died. "It's definitely an art as much as a science". What can we learn about games by comparing the thrill of a nailgun kill in Quake to the elation of triple word score in online Scrabble? For Richard Garfield, creator of Magic: The Gathering and KeyForge, it's actually quite a bit.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
The Playground Podcast: Greg Ahearn on Toy Fair Today & Tomorrow, by Christopher Byrne. They talk about the almost universally positive response to the show, the future of the NY show, what’s going on in LA, the exceptional work being done by the Association in DC, and the important work of The Toy Foundation.
The Joy Factory: How Mattel Keeps Its Enduring Brands Present in Pop Culture. As the toymaker celebrates its 80th anniversary, CEO Ynon Kreiz and senior leaders reflect on the company's deep roots and IP-focused future. It’s in the hand-painted eyelashes on every Barbie doll prototype. It’s in the meticulous detail found on the millions of Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars made every year.
He Voices Porky Pig, and That’s Not All, Folks. Listen to the performer Eric Bauza voice the characters Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny and more. His work appears in the new animated feature, “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie.” “We all want to be like Bugs, but we’re all really Daffy,” said the voice actor Eric Bauza with a hearty laugh during a recent interview in Los Angeles.
Just four months after joining BBC Studios Kids & Family, Gráinne McNamara has been promoted to VP of development for live action and animation. McNamara joined the company in November 2024 as an executive producer of development and live action—an area of expertise that she honed in her previous roles as head of live-action development at Disney EMEA (2014 to 2018) and VP of live-action development...
Trailblazing Women in Video Gaming: Meet the Pioneers Who Shaped Design History. Their contributions have changed the gaming industry in both subtle and consequential ways. Female gamers are no longer the anomaly they once were, though it's still not easy for a woman who wants to break into video game design. Since the 1970s, women have had to fight to be included in the industry. And some were very successful.
Curious Universe welcomes Claire Hampshire as managing director UK. Curious Universe is pleased to announce the appointment of Claire Hampshire (formerly Claire Grasby) as the new MD for the UK.
Generation Media appoints new head of Gaming Partnerships. Generation Media, a trusted name in gaming media strategy, is expanding its specialist services with the appointment of Greg Weller as head of Gaming Partnerships.
Netflix’s Gen AI gaming boss Mike Verdu has left after just four months. The SVOD says its games division, which Verdu helped build, is honing in on a new gaming strategy that will focus on a few key genres, including kids titles.
Russell Binder joins Acclaim in an advisory role. The licensing veteran will help the newly relaunched game developer resurrect its legacy franchises and build consumer products programs for upcoming titles.
Companies and Brands
Move Over, Kids. Hasbro Wants Adults to Play. Already, roughly 60% of Hasbro’s revenue comes from people who are 13 and over. Now, in the midst of a yearslong turnaround effort that has involved cutting $600 million in costs and over two-thirds of its individual products, Hasbro is pinning growth on adults and teens interested in Star Wars fighter vehicles, Spider-Man action figures and other toys and collectibles...
Luki Lab applied the technology from its award-winning Flat 2 Fast Card Racers and applied them to Pets 2 Love, introducing a pop-out toy that can be launched from its cozy home in the shape of a purse. These flat-pack toys introduce kids to friendly cat characters like Luna and Olive, as well as dogs like Louie and Milo, each of which is housed in a heart-shaped purse with a handle that doubles as a leash.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated March 14th ***
Lego is working to build up its in-house game development. Lego boss Niels Christiansen said the company was increasing its focus on video game experiences created by its own teams, following years of partnerships with outside companies. "We can definitely say, as long as we're...
Pop Mart Opens New Location in Connecticut. Collectibles and pop culture merchandise manufacturer Pop Mart will open a new location, The SoNo Collection Store, in Norwalk, CT, marking the company’s first location in the state.
Build-A-Bear Workshop Announces Multi-Level Experiences in Orlando. The beloved kids’ company is set to provide innovative and multi-level shopping experiences for one of the largest tourist destinations in the United States, with construction starting later this year.
‘Toys as Art’: Gallery kickstarts Mattel’s 80th anniversary. A new exhibition coming to Corey Helford Gallery on March 15 will be “the perfect kickoff” for toy company Mattel Inc.’s 80th anniversary.
Exploding Kittens unveils two new card games coming to retail soon. Exploding Kittens unveiled two new card games. One features a collaboration with Tim Feriss.
Made In USA: Cra-Z-Art Expands U.S. Manufacturing in Response to Trump Tariffs. The daily threat and potential impact of tariffs on the U.S. toy industry is prompting new moves to bolster domestic manufacturing capacity.
Tonies introduces Sleepy Friends ahead of World Sleep Day. With many families looking for ways to keep their children’s bedtime routines on track, Tonies has announced its Sleepy Friends collection.
Thames & Kosmos reveals two MSRP $19.95 games. Thames & Kosmos revealed two new games, 'Dice Words' and 'One of Us', which will head to retail soon.
R&R will release 'Shapely'. R&R Games will release Shapely, a new party game, into retail in June 2025.
The Op previews three hobby games coming to retail in 2025. The Op Games previewed three new games at NYC Toy Fair, which will be coming to retail in the latter half of 2025.
Beacon Media Group and Bazooka Brands Launches In-House Integrated Agency Team. Beacon Media Group is launching an in-house Integrated Agency Team management service.
Jazwares Celebrates Squishmallows Day with Largest Single Donation. Jazwares is celebrating the third-annual Squismallows Day by announcing the largest single Squismallows donation of all time.
Toymaster Spring Regional Meetings hailed a success. The independent buying group Toymaster has enjoyed a great turnout at its Dublin and Coventry Spring Regional Meetings.
'Exploding Kittens: The Board Game' Revealed. The first ever Exploding Kittens board game marks the 10th anniversary of the card game's release and will release on August 1, 2025.
Catan unveils new look for special sixth edition. Celebrating its 30th year as one of the most recognizable and iconic games of the 21st Century, Catan is unveiling a fresh, new look.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
8 Video Games That Recreate Famous Movie Moments. Video games and cinema have always had a strong connection. With the rise of video game adaptations, these two mediums influence each other more than ever. But long before this trend, many games were already paying homage to iconic films, sometimes recreating legendary scenes shot for shot, other times just making clear references to their inspirations.
Opinion: The Best Anime Games You Can Play Right Now. Anime is great. So are video games. Why not enjoy them together? There are thousands of anime games out there, some good and some bad, but anime fans flock to them anyway and sink hundreds of hours into games that remind them of the anime they love.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
Nintendo Download Adds Mario Madness to March. As March 10 represents Mario Day for many in the gaming community, Nintendo celebrates this special occasion with popular games and special announcements for its devoted fanbase.
Scopely buys Niantic’s entire gaming division in a US$3.5-billion deal. Pokémon GO was a key asset in the acquisition orchestrated by the mobile gaming studio behind Stumble Guys, along with a booming live fan event business.
Overwatch 2’s new collab brings K-pop fandom back to Blizzard’s shooter. K-pop group Le Sserafim has reunited with Blizzard Entertainment for a new Overwatch 2 collaboration that will bring stylish new skins to the game later this month.
A dating app for video games tackles one of the industry's big issues. Almost 19,000 titles went live on PC games store Steam in 2024 - about 360 a week. But for developers "discoverability", getting new releases noticed, has never been more challenging.
Moon Studios becomes 'fully independent' after securing No Rest for the Wicked's publishing rights. The company now hopes to develop the action-RPG 'without restrictions.'
Virtuos establishes new South Korea studio. The Seoul-based office will help Virtuos build on its relationships with various South Korean partners.
Live-service game engine Pragma nets $12.75 million in funding. Pragma will use the new funds to continue 'delivering scalable, live-service infrastructure while expanding our suite of game dev tools.'
Mountaintop Studios shutting down after debut shooter Spectre Divide falls short. The company secured over $35 million to develop the free-to-play title, which will now be scrapped.
Indie dev Serene Questworks accused of replacing game's cast with AI voices. Generative AI is becoming more prevalent in games, and not every developer is completely honest about their intentions with it.
2025’s Unexpected Hit Game Split Fiction Has Choice Words For AI. In the opening moments of Split Fiction, two aspiring novelists arrive at a publishing company, excited to broker a deal.
Xbox handheld due in 2025, next-gen console for 2027. Microsoft's previously teased Xbox handheld may come out sometime this year. The tech giant is working with a PC gaming manufacturer to create a branded device that will look "unmistakably Xbox."
Split Fiction sells 1 million copies in two days. Hazelight's newest co-op adventure is hitting big and has the numbers to show for it. It's the fastest-selling game to date from the studio: 2021's It Takes Two and 2018's A Way Out took two weeks after their respective launches to reach that same milestone.
World Video Game Hall Of Fame 2025 finalists announced. Every year, the Strong Museum in Rochester, New York inducts some games to be a part of the World Video Game Hall Of Fame that are considered to be among the very best that gaming has to offer.
‘Stumble Guys’ starts new season with the return of Looney Tunes. The battle royale game has a global community of over 50 million monthly players. “Stumble Guys,” the action-packed game acquired by Scopely in 2022, is starting its latest season with a new theme: “Cowboys & Ninjas.”
Are AI-generated video games really on the horizon?. Microsoft and Google have both recently released new generative AI models that simulate video game worlds – with notable limitations.
Nintendo Switch just quietly got two cult-favorite Game Boy games. Nintendo’s Switch Online retro library just inducted two more cult-favorites from the Game Boy. Mario’s Picross and Donkey Kong, commonly referred to as Donkey Kong ‘94, joined the subscription service overnight.
The best RoboCop game is getting a sequel and is only $10 on Steam right now. RoboCop: Rogue City is getting a standalone sequel. The new installment, as RoboCop: Rogue City - Unfinished Business is set to arrive later this year.
Former Xbox exec says Microsoft would stop making hardware if it could. The Xbox that fans have known for decades is currently undergoing an unprecedented transformation as Microsoft sets its sights on a multiplatform approach to gaming and its console sales continue to decline year after year.
Respawn lays off staff, cancels another unannounced game. Apex Legends developer Respawn Entertainment laid off several developers earlier this week, and canceled an unannounced, incubated project.
Highlighted Press Releases
($100/week/press release)
PAUSE WITH PANDA RECEIVES OFFICIAL MESH ACCREDITATION. The Soft and Self-Soothing Bear Plush Passed with Top Scoring in Key Categories. Bernardsville, NJ (March 17, 2025) – Very big news from the manufacturer of the bamboo-loving toy bear: Pause with Panda is proud to announce its official MESH accredited status via meshhelps.org! The exciting new self-soothing and emotional regulation toy making waves in the toy space was just recognized highly by official reviewers through MESH Helps, awarding Pause with Panda top scores in the categories of Adaptation and Self-Regulation. Pause with Panda also scored strongly in the Perseverance and Self Advocacy categories.
Safety and Counterfeiting
Toymakers Worry About Safety as Tariffs Roil Business. The industry is asking Trump for relief. President Donald Trump’s trade war with China could have unintended consequences for the littlest Americans, such as increased choking hazards, lead paint contamination and other risks, if there’s a sudden global shakeup of the toy supply chain. At least that’s what the industry is warning.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on March 14th ***
Roblox CEO on child safety concerns: 'If you're not comfortable, don't let your kids be on Roblox'. Roblox CEO and co-founder Dave Baszucki has told parents to keep their children off the popular game platform if they have safety concerns.
Vietnam targets toys featuring South China Sea map used by Beijing. Vietnam is stepping up inspections of particular children’s toys over concerns that imagery on the model’s face resembles a map China uses to stake competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.
The Toy Association™ Addresses Global Product Safety at International Symposium. Toy Association staff attended and led a panel discussion at the International Consumer Product Health and Safety Organization (ICPHSO)’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Training Symposium.
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Kids India set to bring together key players in the sector. Regional events promoting the Indian toy industry will be bolstered by support from the Indian government, as Kids India returns to Mumbai from 6th to 8th October. Offering expertise and contacts in the Indian toy market, the eleventh Kids India takes place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai from 6th to 8th October.
HKTDC Hong Kong International Licensing Show & Asian Licensing Conference to return for 2025. Driving innovation and expanding opportunities in licensing, the HKTDC Hong Kong International Licensing Show & Asian Licensing Conference takes place 28th to 30th April.
The HKTDC Hong Kong International Licensing Show (HKILS) is back from 28th to 30th April 2025, turning Hong Kong into a buzzing...
*** the above posted after tBR started to circulate on March 14th ***
119th Toy Fair® Unites Global Play Community to Drive Business Growth & Celebrate Latest Innovations. Largest Toy Show in Western Hemisphere Welcomed Play Professionals from Nearly 100 Countries
Toy Companies Unite to Contribute $1.3 Million in Support for Children in Need through The Toy Foundation™. Last week, during the 25th Anniversary Toy of the Year® (TOTY®) Awards and throughout Toy Fair®, $1.3 million in toy donations and financial contributions were generously donated by the toy community in support of children in need around the world.
Richard Gottlieb Toy Entrepreneurship Grant Recipients at New York Toy Fair. Richard Gottlieb’s family and close friend and colleague, Steve Abdo, established a grant at the University of Richmond, along with The Toy Association in Richard Gottlieb’s name to carry on his legacy. The first recipients came to the NY Toy Fair 2025 for the weekend on March 1, 2025
GAMA Origins Awards nominations revealed. Plus a chat with GAMA executive director John Stacy. The Game Manufacturer’s Association GAMA), makes its return this year with a slate of industry and consumer-facing events, including GAMA Expo which took place last...
Another record attendance at North America’s biggest board games industry trade show, GAMA Expo, has left the event pressed for space once again – just a year after the show was transported to Louisville in an attempt to handle surging interest. More than 3,420 people attended this year’s GAMA Expo at the end of February – up 26% compared to its first event at the Kentucky International Convention Centre...
Toymaster Spring Regional Meetings hailed a success. Toymaster, a buying group dedicated to supporting the UK & Ireland’s specialist independent toy retailers, is celebrating the successful completion of its Spring Regional Meetings.
Toy & Hobby China to Highlight New Trends. Toy & Hobby China, taking place at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center from April 7-9, is expanding its focus to reflect the changing manufacturers, according to Messe Frankfurt, organizers of the show.
YMA unveils its 2025 Awards of Excellence shortlist. Sinking Ship and WildBrain are among the Canadian companies dominating this year's nominees for outstanding work in children's production and broadcasting.
Poland’s Kids’ Time Fair reports strong 2025 show. Over the course of three days at the end of February, the latest toys, games and products for children were on display at Kids’ Time as manufacturers unveiled their latest innovations.
Blizzcon skipping 2025, but will return next year. Blizzard's (sometimes) annual event for its community hasn't been held since 2023.
Make-A-Wish needs your help. Make-A-Wish, which grants wishes to critically ill children across the UK, is in need of sensory and outdoor toys, as well as arts & crafts products, for a special summer event.
San Diego Comic-Con readies its first international edition. The four-day event will take place in Spain this September at the Malaga Trade Fair and Congress Center, which can accommodate up to 20,000 guests.
Capcom Announces Partnership with the Esports World Cup. Capcom today announced a three-year partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation’s Esports World Cup (EWC) event held in Saudi Arabia as part of the company’s esports initiative.
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
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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Hot for ’25: 100+ Toys and Games to Stock This Year (The Toy Book)
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Made In USA: Cra-Z-Art Expands U.S. Manufacturing in Response to Trump Tariffs (The Toy Book)
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State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Isaac Larian, MGA Entertainment (The Toy Book)
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State of the Industry Q&A 2025: Zack Farber, RMS (The Toy Book)
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22 New Products Joining the Action Aisle This Year (The Toy Book)
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JAKKS Pacific Partners with Authentic Brands Group for Roxy Dolls Collection (The Toy Book)
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The LEGO Group Dominates Earnings Season, Brick by Brick (The Toy Book)
Toyworld (UK)
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The Toy Trust partners with Kids Inspire for Mega Midsummer Mayhem
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Curious Universe welcomes Claire Hampshire as managing director UK
Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld
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The Lego Group delivers record top- and bottom-line results in 2024
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New retailers confirmed for BLE 2025 Retail Mentoring Program
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Spin Master renews global master toy partner agreement for Gabby’s Dollhouse
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BBC Studios highlights Bluey’s digital presence and successes
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McFarlane Toys and Warner Bros. announce Mortal Kombat Klassic collaboration
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BBC Studios expands Bluey licensing portfolio with FMCG products
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- 'Magic: The Gathering's' 'Secret Lair X SpongeBob SquarePants' Gets a Date
- Wizards of the Coast Announces 'Magic Presents: Pride'
'Pokemon TCG' Turns on the Afterburners; Best of the Rest are Caught in Its Jet Wash
- Upper Deck Will Release TCG Mentioned in 2023 'Disney Lorcana' Lawsuit
- New Wave of 'D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures' Head to Retail
- Stonemaier Sales Up in 2024
- WizKids Unveils New 'Pathfinder Battles Deep Cuts'
- Ultra PRO Brings Back 'Fine Art: The Great Wave Off Kanagawa' Accessories
- Funko Shows Q4 and Full Year Loss
- Rolling for Initiative -- Into the 'Fallen Empires'
Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)
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Miraculous Ladybug Celebrates 10 Years with a Collectible Doll
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Tom & Jerry Celebrate 85 Years: Products, Experiences, and Surprises
Global Toy News
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The Playground Podcast: Greg Ahearn from the Floor at NY Toy Fair
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Richard Gottlieb Entrepreneurship Grant Recipients at Toy Fair NY
The Bugg Report (Australia)
The Toy Universe (Australia)
hobbyDB
Finance / company news
Board game crowdfunding major CMON issues profit warning, says losses could exceed $2m for 2024
Stonemaier’s “pretty big gamble” with large Wyrmspan print run pays off, as soaring sales help company’s revenue surge to $23.7m
Record GAMA Expo attendance leaves show straining at the seams again, as drive to represent whole board game industry continues trade body’s rapid growth
Fewer releases, spending freezes and rising prices: board game publishers face volatile financial future as US hikes China tariff to 20%, brings in 25% Canada, Mexico tariffs
Awards
New-look Origins Awards has a massive 120 nominees this year; new Hall of Fame inductees revealed
Toy Store (Italy)
Video of the Week!
Top 10 Action Figure Relaunches in Toy History
2025 New York Toy Fair
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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
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