the Bloom Report July 18-25 2025

July 18-25, 2025

CLICK HERE - THE BLOOM REPORT 24/7 NEWSFEED

Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!

Happy Bloomin’ Friday

I’m often asked about the difference between the TAGIEs and the TOTYs—especially now that nominations for both are open! While finalists for each are evaluated on innovation, design, play value, and market success, the distinction lies in the focus:

The TAGIEs honor the people behind the incredible products—recognizing the innovators along a toy or game's journey to retail shelf. 18th Annual TAGIE Award Submissions Here - they close August 2nd.

The TOTYs celebrate the incredible products themselves—highlighting the year’s most outstanding toys and games. 26th Annual TOTY Award Submissions Here - they close August 27th.

Registration is Open for November's POP Week

Connect, pitch and learn at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference
Celebrate innovative colleagues at the TAGIEs
Encourage a creative kid to enter the Young Inventor Challenge
Kick off the holidays by taking a booth at the Chicago Toy & Game Fair! Meet consumers, influencers, media and trade.

Thank you for reading the Bloom Report here or on the Bloom Report 24/7 News Feed! Please support our work by advertising and/or setting up a POP profile.

Mary and the POP Team

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Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!

"Cartoon" of the Week: Brett Goldstein is an actor and writer best known for his role as Roy Kent on Ted Lasso... and his love of the Muppets! Watch Brett Goldstein teach Cookie Monster about the F-word on Sesame Street.

Memorable Quotes: “"Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind." - Rudyard Kipling

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 our colleagues celebrating birthdays this past week!

Harvey Diamond RIP

Isaac Heller RIP

Commentary of the Week - Blue Plate's David Becker

Marketing in Today’s Volatile Environment

For marketers in the mom, kid, and family space, navigating challenges and market volatility can feel like steering through a storm without a map. But sitting still and waiting for the skies to clear isn’t a strategy; it’s a risk. In today’s environment, the most effective marketers are the ones who keep moving forward with intention, strategy, and flexibility to deliver their clients’ needs.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is doing nothing. Hoping conditions will improve or waiting for a crisis to pass often leads to missed opportunities and losing valuable time. Dwelling on challenges caused by external forces (i.e. tariffs, politics, or supply chain disruptions) instead of seeking solutions can leave your brand stuck while others move ahead. Remember: Action always speaks louder than excuses.

Marketers must reinforce their value to retail partners.

(Note from Mary: It is the 20th Anniversary of the Young Inventor Challenge! We have BIG plans and would love to include you - be a sponsor, a judge or a volunteer. We appreciate all the help we can get to support the next generation of toy people! Contact Ahren Hoffman ahren@peopleofplay.com today.)

Financial and Legal

The FCC has approved Skydance’s US$8-billion acquisition of Paramount, clearing the way for the long-awaited merger to potentially close in the coming weeks. The FCC voted yesterday to bless the deal, which includes Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and CBS. In a press release, the FCC noted that Skydance has committed to not establish any DEI programs and to keep CBS journalism “fair, unbiased and fact-based” ...

Australia bans YouTube accounts for children under 16 in reversal of previous stance. The Australian government has announced YouTube will be required to ensure account holders are at least 16 years old starting in December

After more than 55 incredible years in business, TREND enterprises, Inc. has made the difficult decision to close by the end of 2025. This decision was not made lightly. Like many companies, we’ve been impacted by shifting economic conditions—from rising costs in materials, manufacturing, and shipping to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated on July 25th ***

Abacus Brands Acquires Pixicade. Abacus Brands has acquired Pixicade, the award-winning brand known for its interactive “draw-your-own-video-game” platform. The acquisition builds on the companies’ 2024 distribution partnership and marks a strategic expansion into creative technology.

S ubstack has raised a $100 million Series C funding round, which will be used to fund the growth of the platform, including support for creators. The round was led by BOND and The Chernin Group, with participation from Andreessen Horowitz, Rich Paul, CEO and founder of Klutch Sports Group, and Jens Grede, CEO and co-founder of SKIMS.

Families of the Uvalde school shooting victims are suing video game and media companies, alleging the shooter was exposed to violence through those platforms before carrying out one of the worst school shootings in U.S. history. The families have sued Activision, the maker of the first-person military shooter game “Call of Duty,” Meta and one other company, reported the Los Angeles Times.

Trump Signs GENIUS Bill as Private Stablecoins Corner CBDCs in Digital Dollar Race. On Friday (July 18), at a White House Ceremony, U.S. President Donald Trump signed into law the country’s first-ever piece of crypto legislation, the GENIUS Act.

Blackstone Backs Off From TikTok Ownership Plans. The change, as Reuters pointed out, is happening amid mounting uncertainty about a deal for the popular social media platform, following numerous delays.

Treasury Secretary Wants to Review ‘Entire Federal Reserve’. Scott Bessent declined to comment on reports that he had advised President Donald Trump not to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, saying it would be the president’s decision.

China shores up status as top shipbuilder with Shanghai port expansion. China’s financial centre Shanghai is now positioning itself as a world-class shipbuilding hub, with an eye on high-value models such as those designed to transport liquefied natural gas (LNG) and containers.

Sylvanian Families' legal battle over TikTok drama. Sylvanian Families has become embroiled in a legal battle with a TikTok creator who makes comedic videos of the children's toys in dark and debauched storylines.

Trump backs further away from firing Powell: 'He's going to be out pretty soon anyway'. The president has accused Powell of being political and nicknamed him "too late" when it came time to adjusting interest rates.

GAMA Joins NCLA Federal Lawsuit. The Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has joined the New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA) federal lawsuit that challenges the President's tariffs imposed under the IEEPA.

Diamond Moves to Sell Diamond UK to Employee Group. Diamond Comic Distributors has filed a motion with the bankruptcy court to sell the shares owned by subsidiaries Comic Exporters and Comic Holdings in Diamond UK to an employee group of the UK company.

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Financial Reporting, Tariffs

PLAY TIME Mattel CEO makes promise to keep half of ALL Barbies and Hot Wheels under $20 for upcoming Christmas season. The company previously spiked prices, with shoppers seeing one product increase 42.9% in one week

Scholastic Corporation (SCHL) reported its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings, surpassing Wall Street expectations with an EPS of $0.87 compared to the forecasted $0.85. The company also reported revenue of $508.3 million, exceeding the anticipated $494.59 million.

Tariffs lead Jakks to a 20% Q2 revenue drop. The company attributes a 31% US toy sales decline to reduced orders and import price hikes, which it was partially able to offset by bolstering the international business.

Small business owners used the festive backdrop of Comic-Con on Thursday to discuss a sobering topic: the negative impact that US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs are having on the toy industry. "Not the most sexy topic," Jonathan Cathey, chief executive of collectibles company The Loyal Subjects, admitted at a panel titled "Toys, Tariffs, and Trade Wars" at the four-day convention in San Diego, CA.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Mattel posted a 6% drop in net sales for the second quarter of 2025, reporting $1.02 billion in revenue as softness in North America continued to pressure results. Despite the sales dip, Mattel’s gross margin improved to 50.9%, up 170 basis points, aided by cost savings, improved inventory management, and favorable product mix. Adjusted gross margin climbed to 51.2%.

Hasbro’s Q2 - Revenue dipped 1% year-over-year to $981 million, as a 23% surge in Magic: The Gathering — led by the record-breaking Final Fantasy set — helped offset declines in traditional toy sales. Monopoly Go! contributed $44 million in revenue as part of a 16% segment gain for Wizards and Digital Gaming.

Hasbro’s Magic: The Gathering growth helps offset toy revenue drop. The toy and entertainment company raised its full-year guidance, though it acknowledged that tariff rates remain fluid.

Netflix highlights original animation as a driver in its strong Q2 results. Revenue was up 16% to US$11 billion this quarter, which saw KPop Demon Hunters become one of the streamer's biggest animated films of all time.

Businesses are finalizing their holiday orders amid tariffs. One toy store had to eliminate half the products it normally buys. “The uncertainty has led us to spend all our time trying to rejigger what we’re ordering, where we’re bringing it in, when it’s going to get here,” Mac Harman, CEO of Balsam Hill parent company Balsam Brands, said. “We don’t know which items we’re going to have to put in the catalog or not.”

Less selection, higher prices: How tariffs are shaping the holiday shopping season. “The uncertainty has led us to spend all our time trying to rejigger what we’re ordering, where we’re bringing it in, when it’s going to get here,” Mac Harman, CEO of Balsam Hill parent company Balsam Brands, said. “We don’t know which items we’re going to have to put in the catalog or not.”

Before tariffs hit, this Lincoln Square toy store made a big bet. It may save their season. Earlier this year, as President Donald Trump started his second term and began talking tough on tariffs, Timeless Toys in Lincoln Square decided to make a bet. The 30-year-old toy shop bought a year’s worth of inventory.

Trump pushes for up to 20% minimum tariffs on European Union: FT. Trump has escalated his demands on the EU following weeks of negotiations over a framework deal, the Financial Times reported.

Bessent: Imposing Aug. 1 tariffs 'will put more pressure' on trade partners for deals. Bessent and Commerce Sec. Howard Lutnick view Aug. 1's tariffs as leverage in talks that continue past that date.

Retailers In The Crosshairs Over Tariff-Driven Price Hikes. Consumers blame companies for exploiting the disruption caused by tariffs.

From California to Gulf Coast, Trump's trade war take biggest toll on nation's smaller, secondary ports. The busiest port in LA has seen a bump, but at small ports, Trump trade policy is hitting hard.

Trump China tariff deadline likely to be extended, Bessent says. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he will meet next week with trade negotiators in Stockholm for discussions on avoiding steep tariffs.

Trump says U.S. struck trade, military deal with the Philippines; Manila has not confirmed. Trump said the trade deal with the Philippines includes a 19% tariff on goods from the southeast Asian country.

Trump tariffs, inflation have some parents worried about back-to-school shopping costs. This year, parents will pay more for back-to-school essentials such as pens, pencils and backpacks.

China’s logistics market slides as suppliers relocate to avoid US tariff war. Rents on logistics properties in mainland China extended a slump into the first half of this year.

Trump tariffs putting tens of thousands of board game industry jobs at risk, GAMA says, as it joins second anti-tariffs lawsuit it likens to “a sledgehammer” rather than “a scalpel”. Emergency tariffs are an “existential crisis” to board game companies.

Toys Market Size to Surpass USD 405.25 Billion by 2030. The Global Toys Market is undergoing a dynamic transformation globally.

Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry

Women Make Up 70% of Mexico’s Toy Industry Workforce. Toy production has increased 17.4%, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing and employment.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Christmas in July? Why Shoppers Are Getting a Head Start in 2025

Toy makers advising consumers to shop earlier

JUNE 2025 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN - TOP 20 AUTHOR, MANGA, AND SUPERHERO GRAPHIC NOVELS

18 Worst Video Game Sequels Ever, Ranked

JUNE 2025 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN - TOP 20 ADULT GRAPHIC NOVELS

Consumer sentiment edges up on expectations inflation will cool. Recent stability in consumer sentiment coincides with mixed signals on employment and retail sales.

Japan's core inflation cools in June as expected, easing from 29-month high. Headline inflation in the country dropped to 3.3%, coming down from 3.5% in May.

Marketing in Today’s Volatile Environment. For marketers in the mom, kid, and family space, navigating challenges and market volatility can feel like steering through a storm without a map.

Fans burn Labubu toys, fear they resemble demon, sparking lively debate in China. A conspiracy theory speculating that the popular Chinese plush toy Labubu is possessed by a demon has gone viral.

Toy Industry Resilient Despite Tariffs; It’s Game On For Holiday. Toy makers are hoping that consumer demand, and hit toys will help them weather the tariff impact.

Take the battery out: Toy makers rewire designs to weather trade tensions. This holiday season, U.S. parents may have to make an extra pit stop - not for toys, but for the batteries that power them.

Steak N Shake is Giving Away 100,000 Free Labubu Toys. In a move no one saw coming, Steak n’ Shake is giving away 100,000 Labubu figurines from POP MART’s cult-favorite The Monsters series.

Emerging Trends in Yiwu's Toy Market: DIY Blind Boxes and LABUBU Doll Outfits. Big data from Yiwugo shows that "toys" has consistently ranked among the platform's most searched keywords.

Labubu, soft power of a stealthy ‘ugly-cute’ sort, takes on America. The Chinese-made dolls, a playful global megahit, give Beijing an opportunity to make inroads into deep US distrust

Toyjobs has been the dominant recruiting

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Stories, Comments, and Advice

Google set up two robotic arms for a game of infinite table tennis. The match could help train the advanced AI models that power humanoids.

After Being Diagnosed with Leukemia at 3, Daughter Gets 'Daddy Doll' to Comfort Her During Treatment (Exclusive). The lookalike dolls made both Delta and dad Hayden feel closer to each other when difficult circumstances kept them apart

*** The above posted after tBR circulated on July 25th ***

John Baulch, Toy World - Schools Out… it’s the Friday Blog! So, the schools have finally broken up and kids have started that glorious six-week stretch of freedom and fun we all remember fondly from our youth. Of course, to coincide with the school holidays, the marvellous weather we’ve been enjoying has turned into a more typical British summer – sometimes, the scripts just write themselves.

OPINION: Ms. Rachel brings YouTube’s massive viewership to Netflix. The SVOD's latest earnings report proves the preschool sensation is one of its biggest new hits. There's just no beating a built-in audience.

How did a town just two hours from São Paulo become the Toy Capital of Brazil? The town has less than 30,000 inhabitants and has already sold millions of dollars worth of toys to foreign countries, making it an international benchmark in the sector.

Wait, is that a Labubu on Karl Marx's grave? Viral photo leaves internet amused. A viral social media post has captured a bizarre and oddly moving scene that’s surprised and amused the internet, racking up over nine million views.

India’s Toy Renaissance: From Importer to Global Contender. India's toy industry is witnessing remarkable growth. Government-led initiatives such as Make in India and Vocal for Local have made a game-changer.

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History and Nostalgia

From 75 years ago: Watch Bugs Bunny's debut. Seventy-five years ago today, on July 27, 1940, Bugs Bunny, the suave, smart-alecky rabbit who became the most popular of Warner Brothers' cartoon characters, made his first official film appearance, in "A Wild Hare."

*** The above was posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

The Toys of TMNT – An Unofficial Guide Book to Ninja Turtles Toys – Available for Pre-Order!. TMNT fans, THIS is the book you’ve been waiting for! A mondo, full-color hardcover chronicling the wild and wacky toys of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from their launch in 1988 through 1993!

Vintage Toy Restoration – The Real Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from Kenner. Released by Kenner in 1986, the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man figure was created in support of the animated series, The Real Ghostbusters.

Space Blaster from Coleco. Released in 1978, Space Blaster was part of Coleco’s first generation of tabletop electronic games and stood out for its unique but short-lived projection-based display. Players aimed a stationary gun-style console at a wall where spaceships were projected and “blasted” them.

Shark Attack! from Milton Bradley. Published by Milton Bradley in 1988, Shark Attack! was a swim-for-your-life game that raced fish around a track in hopes of outswimming a menacing mechanical shark.

'I created Hello Kitty'. In 1974, a 24-year-old Japanese illustrator called Yuko Shimizu put pen to paper to draw the famous cartoon. Her creation has helped the entertainment company Sanrio generate more than $80 billion to date.

Dancerina from Mattel (1969). Mattel brought ballet to the playroom with Dancerina, a 24-inch battery-operated doll that could pirouette, toe-dance, and gracefully turn her head, all at the push or twist of a control knob hidden in her plastic tiara.

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Licensing and Entertainment

‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Rockets to Marvelous $24.4M in Box Office Previews. The acclaimed movie scored the top preview of the year to date and the best since fellow Marvel superhero pic 'Deadpool & Wolverine' exactly a year ago.

*** The above posted after July 25th when tBR circulated ***

Amazon MGM Studios, Mattel, and Sony Pictures Releasing International have unveiled the official title treatment for the upcoming Masters of the Universe live-action feature film. The reveal includes localized translations in a wide range of languages, plus a special version rendered in Eternian, the fictional language of the franchise’s homeworld.

Just Play’s Disney Doorables collection now includes Marvel characters inspired by the Avengers, Spider-Man, the Guardians of the Galaxy and more, all featuring the iconic Doorables stylisation. The first two Marvel Doorables sets are launching this week at major US retailers, with a global rollout continuing throughout autumn in markets including...

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to end in May 2026. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end in May 2026 after 33 years on air, the CBS television network announced in a surprise statement on Thursday, July 17.

New Pokemon Show From Wallace & Gromit Creators Coming In 2027. Here, we get our first look at some familiar faces in Aardman's iconic style, as well as confirmation that the show will take us to the Galar region.*

South Park creators score $1.5B deal to bring show to Paramount Plus. After longstanding negotiations, South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, through their Park County production company, have scored a $1.5 billion deal with Paramount Plus for the show’s global streaming rights.

Topps and Premier League reveal details of new trading card range. Topps has marked its return as a Premier League licensee with the new Topps Premier League 2025/26 Trading Cards. The innovative product looks to deliver excitement in every pack.

Disguise, NBCUniversal Bring Blockbuster Films to Life Through Costumes. The collection will feature costumes based on NBCUniversal family and kid films of the year, including Wicked: For Good, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, and Jurassic World Rebirth.

REPORT: Kids and teens drove Netflix’s June viewership surge. The seasonal influx of kid viewers boosted Netflix to become the third most-watched media outlet in the US, and helped push an overall increase in time spent streaming.

J.Lo’s Cinderella musical wish comes true at Disney+. This is a new take on the musical version of the fairytale that was crafted in the ’50s by legendary composer-lyricist duo Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.

Warner Bros. to bring The Land of Stories to the big screens. Wreck-It Ralph and Zootopia's Phil Johnston is attached to write the script for this adaptation of Glee star Chris Colfer's hit book series about fairytales coming to life.

2025’s Back to Hogwarts campaign apparates around the world. Warner Bros. Discovery's Harry Potter celebration is about to enter its seventh year, with new 20th-anniversary screenings of Goblet of Fire and exclusive merch from regional partners.

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Trailer to Screen Exclusively in Theaters Before ‘Fantastic Four’. In a post on the official “Avatar” X account, it was revealed that the first trailer for James Cameron’s “Avatar” threequel will screen exclusively in theaters before showings of Marvel’s “Fantastic Four.”

‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ Going Later In June 2027. Fans will have to wait three weeks longer for Sony’s threequel Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, which is now opening on June 25, 2027 instead of June 4, 2027.

‘Wednesday’ Renewed For Season 3 By Netflix. Netflix is staying in the Wednesday game. The streamer has ordered a third season of the supernatural comedy series, which stars Jenna Ortega in the Addams Family reimagining.

‘Booster Gold’: HBO Series Progressing With Pilot Penned By ‘Our Flag Means Death’ Creator David Jenkins. Here’s a big one just in time for San Diego Comic-Con. HBO Max is progressing with its Booster Gold TV series and has attached Our Flag Means Death creator David Jenkins to write the pilot.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians season 2 trailer promises war, monsters, and a cyclops brother. Season 2 of Disney Plus’ Percy Jackson and the Olympians got its first look on Thursday at San Diego Comic-Con, revealing what Percy will get up to in the new live-action adaptation of The Sea of Monsters.

‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ Trailer: Josh Hutcherson Returns to Fight More Killer Animatronics in Video Game Sequel. The first trailer for “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” teases the continuation of Freddy Fazbear’s chilling reign.

‘Air Bud Returns’: 15th Film in Franchise, From Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment, Eyes 2026 Theatrical Release (EXCLUSIVE). “Air Bud Returns,” the latest film in the athletic canine saga, has been announced by Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment.

‘Avatar: Seven Havens’ Drops First Look at New Earthbender Avatar Set After ‘Legend of Korra’. Nickelodeon has released the first look at the upcoming animated series “Avatar: Seven Havens,” the sequel series to the popular shows “Avatar: The Last Airbender” and “The Legend of Korra.”

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People of Play

Etch A Sketch Artist Sells Portraits for Over $1K and Been Noticed by Stars Like Miles Teller and Kelly Clarkson (Exclusive). Jane Labowitch's etching was featured six times on Netflix's thriller Spiderhead.

How Mattel Studios President and Chief Content Officer Robbie Brenner Is Crafting a Post-‘Barbie’ Slate. Office With a View: The executive's ambitious, filmmaker-driven slate of films and TV shows includes a gritty "Matchbox" movie and a fantastical take on "Hot Wheels" from Jon M. Chu.

Duncan Fisher wrote the book about his father Denys – inventor of the Spirograph – to mark the toy’s 60th anniversary. Denys Fisher, who died in 2002 aged 84, lived in the Lake District for over 40 years, invented a host of much-loved toys including Cyclex and Stickle Bricks. Duncan said: “It was my great good fortune to have Denys Fisher as my dad. I think he accomplished something deeper than just a...

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Bold Journey - Peggy Brown. Peggy, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

Basketball star Quinten Post has officially scored another title for his resume: the first-ever champion of the Chesstival blitz tournament. Earlier this month, the Golden State Warriors player was one of several NBA players who took time away from the court to compete in the inaugural tournament, which pairs professional basketball players with chess grandmasters, like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana.

John Romero says indies are the future of game development: 'These people are the ones that make triple-A studios go, 'Wait a minute, we need to start doing this''.

YouTuber turns plastic toy into functional computer that adds, subtracts. YouTuber Shadowman39 built a K’NEX ALU that uses levers and gears to add numbers from 0 to 255 with visible mechanical steps.

Gold Derby grilled two of Mattel's top design team members to explain how they transformed a couple of their favorite screen moments into mini-machines, and some of the intricate details they included for fellow fans to geek over. Gold Derby: What inspired you to recreate these particular moments? Chris Colangelo (senior manager of product design for vehicles): “You’re going to need a bigger boat”...

Dr. Seuss Enterprises Promotes Ellie Terveen to EVP of Operations. In her expanded role, Terveen will lead strategic financial planning, oversee the company’s IT integration efforts, and guide digital transformation initiatives.

Moonbug scales up its team with new appointments. The company has just brought in writer-director Carlos Stevens (Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) to serve as its new head of creative development.

Companies and Brands

Moomins Enter the Cuteness Pantheon, With Help From Gen Z. Like Snoopy and Miffy, these adorable creatures have been rediscovered by members of a younger generation.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Allison Holker (“So You Think You Can Dance”) and her family’s visit to the Moose Toys Gui Gui slime pop up in Los Angeles. The Gui Gui pop up is an immersive, hands-on experience invites kids on journey through the five sensory steps of beautifying their slime — from mix to masterpiece. The pop up is running July 19 (today) and 20 at The Grove in Los Angeles, and guests can enjoy branded giveaways as well...

Hasbro Launches Play-Doh Learning Lab. Hasbro’s initiative proves that education and fun can go hand-in-hand. To keep the summer slide at bay, Hasbro is launching a line of learning materials for parents, daycare providers, and educators to use to keep learning fun. Ranging from five to 15 minutes, each activity comes with step-by-step instructions and options to expand on the lesson.

The Lego Group has announced the launch of the Lego Ideas Italian Riviera set, an architectural model kit designed for adults. This set invites builders to embark on a journey to the picturesque Ligurian coast, allowing fans to recreate the charm of a quaint fishing village nestled by the Mediterranean Sea.

Target Halting Practice of Price-Matching Amazon and Walmart. The retailer will stop the practice of matching the prices of products from rival retailers like Walmart and Amazon beginning July 28, Retail Dive reported Friday (July 18).

Here's where Walmart prices are changing — and staying the same — as Trump's tariffs hit. Price increases on things like baby gear and home goods at Walmart reflect broader trends following President Donald Trump's tariffs.

Target unveils ‘Back-to-School-idays’ savings event. Target’s school season event — dubbed “Back-to-School-idays” — is debuting weeks after the retailer already started offering specific school-related discounts.

#HotWheels Monster Trucks Are BACK – and It’s Sharks vs. Dinos!. After racking up over 16 million views with last year’s epic Power Smashers special, our high-octane heroes return with their biggest, boldest, most jaw-dropping showdown yet.

Craft Buddy outlines second half growth plans. Craft Buddy is celebrating a strong first half with a wave of significant new retail listings, operational investment and continued licensing success, all of which lay the groundwork for another year of business growth.

Toikido appoints Eolo as global master toy partner for Bad Egg Co.. This partnership follows Toikido and Eolo’s multi-IP collaboration and marks their second full rollout together, this time bringing the anarchy and charm of Bad Egg Co. to toy aisles worldwide.

Tomy steps into the ring with Dōteki. Now available, Dōteki invites players to blend strategy, speed and skill to create a high-energy, dynamic gameplay experience designed for solo and multiplayer fun.

Clixo Launches New Magnetic Sets at Target. Bullseye is welcoming new magnetic sets in the toy aisle — Clixo is releasing nine packs at Target this summer. The launch follows a recent test run. Five Clixo products were placed in 140 Target locations; families can find Clixo sets in Target stores nationwide.

Hess Celebrates Christmas in July with Its 2025 Mini Collection. Hess expands its collection of toy trucks with a new limited-edition set. The Hess Mini Collection returns to the retail roads with a limited-production set of highly detailed, small-scale versions of Hess Toy Trucks.

The Fisher-Price Big Little Feelings Collection Offers Solutions for Families with Toddlers. The Fisher-Price Big Little Feelings Collection features four solution-based kits and exclusive mini-courses for families with kids ages 18 months to 3 years.

Mattel Welcomes the Addams Family with New American Girl Doll. This collector’s item features the dark yet beloved heroine on an 18-inch doll. With only 6000 available, this limited-edition doll blends Wednesday’s gothic touches with American Girl’s beloved doll design.

PlayMonster Acquires Taco vs Burrito Game Portfolio. PlayMonster is adding to its lineup of family-friendly games with the acquisition of Hot Taco’s widely popular Taco vs. Burrito collection. The collection includes the core game and two expansion packs.

Spin Master Expands Its Ms. Rachel-Themed Collection. Spin Master and Rachel Accurso (Ms. Rachel) recently added more than 10 additional toys to the existing Ms. Rachel line. Families can find the new toys at mass retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

BBC Studios to relaunch a fandom-focused e-tail hub. Snow Commerce is building digital stores for each of the Beeb's flagship brands into this overhauled BBC Shop platform, including Bluey and Doctor Who.

Hot Wheels debuts most significant track update for 50 years. Hot Wheels has updated its tracks and play sets to feature a Speed Snap Track System, its most significant track innovation since it debuted the iconic orange track in 1968.

Magna-Tiles expands portfolio with new sets. This month, Magna-Tiles is expanding its best-selling portfolio with a host of new themed sets and the launch of its first-ever Advent Calendar, ready to drive interest across the summer holidays and into the key Christmas trading period.

MGA and Warner Bros. join forces for Powerpuff L.O.L. Surprise! launch. A mashup of style, superpowers and surprises, L.O.L. Surprise! Loves The Powerpuff Girls brings fans brand-new Tots and O.M.G. fashion dolls based on Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup.

Sesame Workshop Invests in Communities Through Its Road Trip Across America. Sesame Workshop is embarking on a cross-country tour in anticipation of Sesame Street’s 56th season. Starting July 27, the Road Trip Across America will incorporate Sesame Street characters into local events.

Bluey is transforming into a lifestyle brand. First reported yesterday by The Guardian, BBC Studios’ SVP of global consumer products Suzy Raia plans to accomplish this by hunting for new opportunities to expand Bluey’s consumer products program beyond its kids roots into both the teen and adult demos.

Hasbro CEO Teases K-Pop MTG Release to Entice Women to Play. In Hasbro’s recent investor presentation, the parent company of Wizards of the Coast had a lot to celebrate. Thanks to the Final Fantasy crossover, which made $200,000,000 in one day, revenue is massively up.

Miniso debuts first collectible toy store in Warsaw. Set to be filled with popular vinyl plush toys, the new store marks another major step in Miniso’s expansion in Europe and its ongoing commitment to bringing fresh retail experiences to Polish consumers.

Miraculous and FAO Schwarz team up for heroic 10th anniversary celebration. Miraculous Corp is unveiling a major wave of new licensed products beginning this summer, launching its 2025 retail campaign with a Miraculous brand activation at the legendary FAO Schwarz in New York City.

Lego and Asmodee launch Brick Like This!. Brick Like This! is all about teamwork under pressure. One teammate describes a Lego model, while the other races to build it, but there’s a twist: only one person can see the model.

Clickeez craze clicks into place for Vivid Goliath. Clickeez is a new collectible range of keyboard-style fidget caps designed to snap together into custom keychains, with over 70 designs to collect across four themes.

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Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Inside the struggle to create a cozy Lord of the Rings game. Tales of the Shire launches on July 29th, but the path to release was a bumpy one for Weta Workshop’s Game Studio.

The Unnerving Future of A.I.-Fueled Video Games. Game designers have used artificial intelligence since the 1980s. But digital characters demonstrating self-awareness is a far cry from the ghosts chasing Pac-Man.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Mobile subscriptions are shedding unique indie games in search of a bigger audience. In 2021, Netflix announced a new gaming initiative, offering users a chance to play games through the streaming service's mobile app. Apple launched a similar program with Apple Arcade just two years before that.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A has a detailed new trailer and Switch 2 bundle. There’s a new Pokémon puzzle game out right now. Pokémon Concierge season 2 has a release date. And on top of a new trailer for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, there’s a new Switch 2 bundle featuring the game, too.*

Ubisoft and Netflix greenlight Assassin's Creed live-action series. Five years after Ubisoft announced its partnership with streaming service Netflix, the two companies have greenlit an Assassin's Creed live-action series.

Microsoft no longer selling Movies and TV on Xbox (or anywhere). Customers who previously purchased movies or shows through the Xbox Store will still be able to watch them through the Movies & TV App.

The Chinese Room is independent again following management buyout. The Chinese Room has confirmed an undisclosed number of workers were laid off as a result of its split from Sumo Group. The UK studio said the redundancies are confidential and explained it currently employs 55 developers.

ZeniMax staff lambast chaotic Xbox layoffs: 'It's difficult to work when you're looking at a graveyard'. Employees at The Elder Scrolls maker ZeniMax explain how Microsoft's latest round of colossal layoffs unfolded and what they mean for the studio and its developers.

Nintendo employee data indicates the company excels at retaining workers. Nintendo's recently updated Employee Data Sheet suggests the company has a knack for retaining employees around the world.

Pokémon Friends is an unexpected mobile surprise from today’s Pokémon Presents. Pokémon Friends presents players with a new brain teaser once per day, such as lighting up all of the bulbs on-screen with a single line or determining which balloon is safe from being popped by arrows.

Mario Kart Tour is getting a Mario Kart World-themed event with new karts. Nintendo has confirmed today that the iOS and Android title Mario Kart Tour is getting a special crossover event with the Nintendo Switch 2 title Mario Kart World.

Supermassive Games is laying off 36 people and delaying Directive 8020. Until Dawn and Little Nightmares III developer Supermassive Games intends to make 36 employees redundant to adapt to a "challenging" industry environment.

Silent Hill 2 codev Side lays off "less than" 10 employees. Side, a support studio that has lent services to games like the Silent Hill 2 remake, Kingdom Come Deliverance II, and Baldur's Gate 3, has laid off staff.

1047 Games lays off developers, CEO says he's made 'many, many mistakes'. Splitgate 2 developer 1047 Games is laying off developers and shutting down the original Splitgate in an effort to revamp the game after launching, in CEO Ian Proulx's words, "too early."

Borderlands 4 is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on 3rd October. Well we’ve finally got a firm release date for the long awaited new entry in the Borderlands franchise Borderlands 4 and it’s coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on 3rd October.

The Switch 2 had a very good launch month. We already knew that Nintendo got off to a strong start with the Switch 2’s launch, and now that the console has been out for a bit, we’re getting a clearer picture on exactly how it performed.

Outright Games and the Lumisella Company Team Up for ‘The Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes’ Video Game. The Lumistella Company and Outright Games are joining forces to launch a new game, The Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes, to honor the anniversary of the Elf on the Shelf characters.

Roblox launches a learning hub stocked with Sesame Street and Care Bears. Setting itself up as an educational stopgap for kids over the summer, Roblox has launched a new Learning Hub to spotlight games from some well-known kids & family brand owners.

The Outer Worlds 2 will no longer be Microsoft’s first $80 Xbox game. Microsoft-owned developer Obsidian Entertainment is announcing a price drop for the The Outer Worlds 2 today. The game was originally supposed to debut at $79.99 in October, but it’s now $69.99.

Here is Lego’s official Nintendo Game Boy — with lenticular display. After revealing this January that Lego would take up the challenge, it has revealed a most impressive take on the 1989 classic that’ll cost a relatively reasonable $60 in the US.

VTuber agency VShojo shuts down after talent exodus. VShojo, the VTuber agency that billed itself as “talent first,” is shutting down. VShojo CEO Justin “Gunrun” Ignacio made the announcement on X writing, “I take full responsibility for the decisions that led us to this point.”

Highlighted Press Releases

($100/week/press release in this highlighted section and on newsletter sent Friday)

BRING A SMILE TO KIDS’ LIPS WITH THESE WATER BOTTLES THAT ENTICE SIPPING IN STYLE
Kids (& Kidults) Keep Hydrated With Cocosmile Cups Clever Drinkware That Comes With Lanyard For Hands-Free Fun Outside, On-The-Go, Away At Camp. Alpine, CA (July 24, 2025) – As millions across the United States brace for the next round of oppressive summer heat, keeping kids from sweating by staying hydrated has never been more important. The solution is an adorable brand that looks as cool as it works! Introducing Cocosmile Cups that blends style, functionality, and fun to make hydration easy and motivating for kids to sip in style.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated on July 25th ***

GET A GRASP! SMART STEPS TOP 5 TOYS INTRODUCE HOLDING ABILITY, CAUSE & EFFECT AND AUDITORY CUES
Happy Hammer Improves Baby’s Dexterity; Gadget Gears Boasts STEM Learning; Balance Monkey Moves Toddlers To New Levels Of Motion Coordination! Fontana, CA (July 21, 2025) — We’ve all heard the expression baby steps. It’s an act that makes a very small amount of progress towards achieving something. One toy company, Alpha Group, dedicates a whole toy line called Smart Steps® to give baby all the clues and fun to develop during those crucial first months — at their own pace and enjoyment! All of the baby toys in this line have been STEM.org Authenticated.

YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST: COME SEPTEMBER EVERY KID’S UNIVERSE WILL GET A BIT SQUISHY
Introducing Squishyverse Snackipoos Tactile Characters Kids Can Create By Mixing, Styling & Squishing For One-Of-A-Kind Collectibles

Toronto, Canada (July 21, 2025) – This fall, instead of oopsies expect to hear kids shout Poopsies! That’s when Squishyverse Snackipoos arrive online and on toy shelves as kids clamor to get their hands on Cupcake Squish, Bubble Gum Yum & McSquish to name drop a few of the collectibles for ages 5-years-old and up. Choose from Squishy Pods and Refill Pods (MSRP $4.99), Series 1 Single Pack ($14.99), Series 1 Double Pack ($24.99), Family Pack ($29.99) or the Squish Factory Playset ($49.99).

Safety and Counterfeiting

Technology platforms operating in the UK now have a legal duty to protect young people from some of the more dangerous forms of online content. This includes pornography, content that encourages, promotes, or provides instructions for violence, promotion of self-harm and eating disorders. Those failing to comply face hefty fines.

*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 25th ***

Growing Number of States Advance Battery Disposal Legislation. The Toy Association™ is actively tracking and engaging in the state legislative process to protect toy manufacturers from undue burdens from these laws.

Hong Kong customs ‘powerless to stop fake Labubu, Chiikawa toys without records’. Hong Kong customs has approached the trademark owners of popular brands Labubu and Chiikawa to establish records that will help combat counterfeits.

ESCP and WRAP Partner to Advance Global Ethical Manufacturing Standards. The Ethical Supply Chain Program (ESCP) and Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) formed a strategic partnership to strengthen labor standards and ethical manufacturing practices worldwide.

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Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals

Mattel’s John Cena Tribute Figure Wins San Diego Comic-Con 2025. We are currently over halfway through Cena’s final year as an active WWE competitor. He says he will never wrestle again after this December and is currently dominating WWE as its champion.

Akira Comics of Madrid, Spain, owned by Jesús Marugán, Iván Marugán, Mariano Marugán, and Justina Escobar, is the recipient of the 2025 Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award. The store had previously won the award in 2012; the rules allow a previous winner to enter again after 10 years if there has been a significant change in ownership.

*** the above was posted after tBR circulated on July 25th ***

Set Your Schedule for LA Fall Preview® Market Weeks. Taking place at the Association’s brand-new Toy Building in El Segundo, the September 8 to 19 market weeks will include business-building opportunities, networking and philanthropy events, and educational sessions.

Nominations are Now Open for the 2026 Toy of the Year® Awards. Toy companies, inventors, and other industry representatives are invited to submit their top products and entertainment brands by August 27, 2025 for consideration across 16 categories.

Showcase Your Brand & Help Children in Need: Become a Sponsor for The Toy Foundation’s Golf & Give FUNdraiser. The Toy Foundation’s Golf & Give FUNdraiser will raise critical funds to bring comfort, play, and healing to children impacted by crisis.

Gen Con Names Ravensburger Co-Sponsor for 2025 Convention. The publisher — known for hit titles like Disney Villainous, Horrified, and Disney Lorcana — will receive dedicated event space and physical and digital marketing throughout Gen Con’s upcoming show.

The LEGO Group is transforming its booth at Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) into San Diego LEGO-Con, a convention totally made out of bricks. The diorama features more than 200,000 bricks, took more than 1,500 hours to build, and is packed with Easter eggs. It also features blank spots for “exhibitor booths.”

Why China is betting on theme parks like Legoland to boost spending. Tourists flocked to China's first Legoland theme park as it opened in Shanghai earlier this month, marking another step in the country's efforts to establish itself as a global travel destination.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Hosts Exclusive Screening/Tour Celebrating Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure. Go on an adventure with expert Tour Guides to find Pee-Wee’s missing bike and join in the quirky fun as you go behind-the-scenes from the actual filming locations on the iconic WB backlot.

Get involved in Toy World’s LA Preview feature. This feature is ideal for companies looking to gain visibility ahead of the trip. The dedicated feature will give companies the chance to tell retailers and distributors why they should add them to their diary for the show.

Hasbro Brings a New Pulse to SDCC Panels, Exclusives. Featuring its popular brand lineups, SDCC guests can visit Booth No. 3213 to interact with franchises like Transformers, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, G.I. Joe, and Beyblade.

Mattel’s Content and Franchise Chiefs to Deliver Joint Keynote at MIPCOM Cannes 2025. This marquee session will showcase how Mattel is building upon its 80-year legacy to drive relevance through bold storytelling, multiplatform content development, and a globally connected franchise ecosystem.

Exhibitor space filling up for London Toy Fair 2026. With approximately six months until Toy Fair, demand for exhibition space is high, with the Gold Zone already sold out and limited space available across both floors.

Masked Republic Brings Lucha Libre Legends and Comic Creators to SDCC. Masked Republic is returning to Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) for its 14th appearance with a stacked lineup of legendary luchadores, exclusive merchandise, and brand-new product drops.

‘Really Disappointed’: The Toy Industry Responds to Pause of ToyFest for 2026. As toy makers and retailers process the news, they share their thoughts on how this decision could impact the industry and what they’d like to see in 2027.

Mattel and Mischief Management Team Up for Barbie-Themed Festival. Held from March 27-29 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the event promises nostalgic activations, exhibits, play zones, hands-on workshops, and inspirational panels.

DC’s Comic-Con Booth Unveiled as Publisher Hits the Road to 100th Anniversary. In an outside the box move that kicks off a Road to 100 festivity, DC plans to celebrate every era of its storied history annually in 10-year increments, starting at the beginning: 1935-1945.

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

Alan Hassenfeld. (Hasbro's realease) Alan Hassenfeld was so much more than Hasbro’s former Chairman and CEO.

He was a beloved leader, a visionary, a mentor, and a friend. A champion for children, a pillar in his community, and always a kid at heart.
Alan devoted his life to causes greater than himself—reminding us that our true legacy lies not in the products we make, but in the lives we touch.

We will carry forward his legacy of giving through the Hasbro Foundation and Hasbro’s ongoing philanthropic initiatives to bring joy to children and fans around the world.

Alan’s spirit lives on in every toy that sparks imagination, every cause he championed, and every person he lifted up.

Thank you, Alan. We’ll keep chasing the wind in your honor.

Link to Hasbro's heartfelt video.

Link to official obituary and details for memorial service this Sunday.

Link to my (Mary's) tribute last week in tBR.

Julian LeFay. Julian LeFay, best known as Bethesda Softworks' chief engineer for pioneer games like The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall, passed away last night at the age of 59.

Shunsaku Tamiya. Tamiya, who died Friday of undisclosed causes, was known for contributing to the worldwide recognition of the toy maker, based in Shizuoka, central Japan, by developing radio-controlled cars and mini 4-wheel-drive models.

Ozzy Osbourne. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Black Sabbath frontman and solo star who helped pioneer the follow-around reality TV genre with his MTV series The Osbournes, died Tuesday. He was 76.

Rene Kirby. Rene Kirby, an actor known for his work in “Shallow Hal” died on July 11 in Burlington, Vermont. He was 70. His brother Jon confirmed to Seven Days that Kirby had died at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

Hulk Hogan. Hulk Hogan, the wrestling icon and actor who became the most recognized star in the sport, has died. He was 71. According to the Clearwater Police Department in Florida, Hogan died Thursday morning due to cardiac arrest.

Chuck Mangione. Two-time Grammy Award-winning musician Chuck Mangione, who achieved international success in 1977 with his jazz-flavored single “Feels So Good” and later became a voice actor on the animated TV comedy “King of the Hill,” has died. He was 84.

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- Wizards of the Coast Issues Errata for 'Magic: The Gathering - Edge of Eternities' Card
- New 'Magic: The Gathering - Mana Edition Boulders' Head to Retail
- SDCC 2025 News: 'ThunderCats RPG' Announced
- Square Enix Unveils 'Final Fantasy: Chocobo's Crystal Hunt (Deluxe Edition)'
- heo Group Unveils 'Magic: The Gathering - Edge of Eternities' 'Ultimate Guard' Line
- New Droid Miniatures Announced for 'Star Wars: Legion'
- Pokemon Reveals Deets on 'Scarlet & Violet: Prismatic Evolutions - Premium Figure Collection'
- Hasbro Looking at Romantasy, K-Pop 'Magic' Sets to Expand Female Players
- Rolling for Initiative -- More Thoughts on Diamond and DCC Day
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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.

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Publisher/Editor: Mary Couzin, SVP Toy Association, Founder & Lead People of Play, formerly Chicago Toy & Game Group

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