Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Sisters Rachel & Jenn Rothman champion includive play in our latest PIE News.
Happy Bloomin’ Friday
Play in Education (PIE) has always been close to my heart. Long before we launched the Chicago Toy & Game Fair or any of our other events, we created the Games in Education website and newsletter—efforts that eventually evolved into Play in Education website, newsletter and conference. Every quarter, we share the latest insights and resources through our PIE newsletter, reaching over 150,000 educators and librarians.
This quarter, we’re thrilled to welcome Guest Editors Rachel and Jenn Rothman. They are sisters and passionate advocates for inclusive play. In this issue, they focus on empowerment, education, and support for the special needs and neurodivergent community.
You can view the current issue of PIE News on this webpage.
Chicago Toy & Game Fair's programming includes the Play in Education Conference where educators learn how to incorporate play into the classroom and receive continuing education credits. We have not yet finalized this year's lineup, 2024's PIE lineup was stellar and this year be as well!
Registration is Open for November's POP Week
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Connect, pitch and learn at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference
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Encourage a creative kid to enter the Young Inventor Challenge
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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: Thank you to Eric Lang for posting the featured cartoon to fb - we had to share it!
Memorable Quotes: “We define ourselves by our actions. With each decision, we tell ourselves and the world who we are. Think about what you want out of this life, and recognize that there are many kinds of success." -Bill Watterson
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!
Marvin Glass RIP
Harvey Diamond RIP
Podcast of the Week - Chris Byrne's Playground Podcast
CLICK HERE to hear Chris's podcast!
Thank you, Chris!
Happy 60th Anniversary, Spirograph!
Sixty years ago, a simple set of interlocking gears, wheels, and pens forever changed the way kids and adults alike approached drawing. Spirograph, the iconic geometric drawing toy, is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025, a milestone that speaks to its enduring legacy as a creative powerhouse and cultural icon.
Invented in 1965 by British engineer Denys Fisher, Spirograph was originally conceived as a drafting tool – but it quickly became a beloved toy thanks to its ability to transform math into mesmerizing art. By guiding a pen through spinning gears, users could create intricate, spiraling designs that were both hypnotic and endlessly unique. The magic of Spirograph lies in this fusion of art and science, where symmetry meets surprise with every turn of the wheel.
Over the decades, Spirograph has transcended generations, captivating artists, engineers, teachers, and kids around the globe. Today, it remains one of the few toys that has stood the test of time without losing its core identity. At PlayMonster, we’re proud to be the team behind Spirograph, since solidifying our licensing agreement with Hasbro in 2019, and to have had the opportunity to reimagine the cherished classic in exciting new ways, including jewelry, fabric, 3D effects, animation, and licensed collaborations with beloved brands like Disney’s Frozen and Star Wars. New for 2025, we’re continuing to innovate the iconic brand and will introduce the first-ever electronic Spirograph, the Electronic Spirograph Machine, launching this fall! Read More...
People of the Week - Tim Walsh & Robert Fuhrer
WTFF - Where's the Fun From? 10,000+ views in 10 days!
Tim Walsh writes, "Bob is a producer of playthings and the man responsible for the collaborations that led to Crocodile Dentist, Gator Golf, Thin Ice, Power Saber, KenKen and so much more. This is the Robert Fuhrer Edition of Where's the Fun from? (WTFF)" Read More...
YIC Executive Director Ahren Hoffman with Maria
July 18, 2025 - YIC Spotlight #3 YIC in our 20 Week Countdown to POP Week and the YIC!
Name: Maria Schwartze
Location: St. Louis, MO
YIC: 2024 Junior Most Engaging Winner
Invention(s): Calming Cuddlees
Where is your invention now?
I presented Calming Cuddlees as one of four finalists in the National Academy of Inventors K-8 Genspiration Foundation award competition through the National Academy of Inventors. I hope this competition will help get Calming Cuddlees on store shelves to help more kids like me give big hugs to their big feelings!
Have you invented any other toys/games since the YIC?
I’m working on a few other ideas now.
Are you planning to work or study in a related field (STEM, design, entrepreneurship, toy/game industry, etc.)?
My dream is to be an entrepreneur and inventor when I grow up.
(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
Substack 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.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on July 18th ***
Italy-based confectionery manufacturer The Ferrero Group is acquiring WK Kellogg, the maker of iconic kids breakfast staples like Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops and Rice Krispies. As part of the US$3.1-billion sale, Ferrero will take over all manufacturing, distribution and marketing of Kellogg’s cereal brands across the US, Canada and the Caribbean.
The EU is testing a prototype age verification app. The app prototype was announced on Monday alongside guidelines that online platforms are recommended to adopt in order to comply with the bloc’s Digital Services Act (DSA).
Trump announces billions in investments to make Pennsylvania an AI hub. President Donald Trump announced more than $90 billion in investments from private companies tied to AI, tech, and energy during the “inaugural” Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit on Tuesday.
Trump denies that he plans to fire Powell: "Highly unlikely". The comments came after the Supreme Court indicated that President Donald Trump does not have the authority to arbitrarily fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
Racine County board game designer sues son of Dungeons & Dragons co-creator. The lawsuit was filed this week by Racine County resident Christopher Clark, founder of the independent publishing company Inner City Games Designs.
Consignors Can Win in Bankruptcy Cases. The news that Diamond Comic Distributors was seeking to seize and sell consignment inventory in its warehouse instead of returning the inventory or selling it and paying the consignors was a big blow to the 182 suppliers affected by the potential move.
Diamond Consignment Suppliers Uniting to Fight Inventory Seizure. Publishers who were consignment suppliers of Diamond Comic Distributors are uniting to block Diamond's seizure and sale of consignment inventory, according to a notice sent to ICv2.
US Senate takes steps toward cutting PBS funding. The US$1.1 billion currently allocated to public media by the US government remains in limbo, as the US Senate narrowly voted yesterday in favor of debating a proposal to cut these funds that support PBS KIDS and local stations.
Trump says Coca-Cola agrees to use cane sugar for coke in US. Coca-Cola did not immediately return a message seeking comment. The company already sells a version of Mexico Coke that contains cane sugar.
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Financial Reporting, Tariffs
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.
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.
*** The above posted after tBR started circulating July 18th ***
President Trump said the United States would impose “very severe tariffs” on Russia if there was no peace deal with Ukraine in 50 days. He said there would be “secondary tariffs” at about 100 percent. Mr. Trump’s remarks came as he met with NATO’s secretary general, Mark Rutte, at the White House; Mr. Rutte has been coordinating European efforts to send Ukraine more weapons to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
The 30 percent tariffs on goods from Mexico and the European Union announced by President Trump on Saturday apparently do not apply to imported cars, some of which are already subject to duties of at least 25 percent. If so, that would be some relief to carmakers who are already facing weak sales and trying to cope with shifting policies that affect electric vehicles.
Trade war: President Trump on Saturday released letters imposing new 30 percent tariffs on imports from Mexico and the European Union, dashing hopes for deals that would avoid such punishing levies. The tariffs, which are set to take effect Aug. 1, are a significant escalation in Mr. Trump’s trade battles, aimed squarely at two of America’s closest and most pivotal trading partners.
William Brangham discussed the tariffs and their impact with Jay Foreman, CEO Basic Fun, which sells toys like Tonka trucks, Care Bears and Lite Brite.
Trump Threatens Higher Tariffs on Canada in the Middle of Trade Talks. The president revived his discredited claims about fentanyl entering the U.S. from Canada to justify his latest proposed rate of 35 percent.
President Donald Trump said Thursday he plans to impose blanket tariffs of 15% or 20% on most trade partners, dismissing concerns that further tariffs could negatively affect the stock market or drive inflation. “We’re just going to say all of the remaining countries are going to pay, whether it’s 20% or 15%. We’ll work that out now,” Trump told NBC News’ “Meet the Press” moderator Kristen Welker in a phone call.
Toymaker Hasbro is stepping up board game production at a manufacturing partner’s plant in East Longmeadow, in part to maneuver around the Trump administration’s tariffs. Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks described the move as a reaction to the administration’s import policies Thursday morning in a broadcast segment with CNN’s Audie Cornish.
America’s toy prices could rise later this year, particularly if higher tariffs take effect, Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks told CNN’s Audie Cornish, host of “The Assignment” podcast. “I don’t know. I didn’t hear anything about Hasbro. I don’t care about their prices,” Trump said, according to an NBC report. Later, he said: “But if they make their toys here, if they made their toys here, they wouldn’t have a price increase.”
Costco Sales Rise 5.8%, Driven by Fresh Food and Non-Food Categories. The retailer’s sales were up 4.7% in the United States, 6.7% in Canada and 10.9% in its other international markets.
Small Lenders Face Tariff-Related Turmoil While Big Banks Thrive. That’s according to recent data showing that while the country’s banking giants are flourishing, regional lenders are having a tough time.
Treasury posts unexpected surplus in June as tariff receipts surge. Last month saw a surplus of a little more than $27 billion, following a $316 billion deficit in May.
Inflation picks up again in June, rising at 2.7% annual rate. The consumer price index in June was expected to increase 2.7% from a year ago, according to the Dow Jones consensus estimate.
EU prepares list of counter-tariffs on US$84 billion of US imports. The EU is still hoping to find a negotiated solution in a dispute with Washington over trade imbalances and threatened tariff increases.
China’s economy withstands US tariff war with 5.2% growth in second quarter. Analysts cautioned that weak demand and external uncertainties could provoke a slowdown in the second half of 2025.
Trump says U.S. has 'deal' with Indonesia, but shares no details. Trump in a Truth Social post called it "great deal, for everybody," and said it followed dealings with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
Labubu maker Pop Mart expects first-half profit jump of at least 350%. Chinese toymaker Pop Mart is gearing up for another period of growth, saying it expects a surge in first-half revenue and profit.
Trump to hit at least 100 smaller nations with tariffs over 10%. US President Donald Trump told reporters on Tuesday that he plans to place tariffs of over 10 per cent on smaller countries.
Hamleys posts 2024 financial results. The retailer’s latest results show improved revenue and pre-tax profit, as Hamleys continues to assess its portfolio and cut costs in a challenging UK marketplace.
Prime Day was even bigger than expected. Back-to-school products saw huge increases in sales as Amazon's expanded four-day event raked in US$24.1 billion, beating its US$23.8-billion forecast.
Japan’s exports fall for second straight month with no U.S. trade deal in sight, raising recession fears. The decrease in exports was a reversal of the 0.5% rise expected by economists polled by Reuters, and comes amid a lack of a breakthrough in trade talks with the U.S.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
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
*** The above posted after tBR started circulating July 18th ***
Interest in dog adoption skyrockets 500% thanks to 'Superman' canine companion, Krypto
This $30 Labubu doll became an international status symbol—it brought in $423 million for its company last year. Here's how the toy's maker Pop Mart built the viral fashion sensation.
More ‘True,’ Less Aspirational Luxury Is The Next Priority For Luxury Brands. Now facing a slowdown, brands must return to core luxury values and first principles.
‘Made In USA’ Brand Reputation Still Stands Strong In Global Markets. Despite global trade tensions, a new study finds "Made in USA" remains strong globally.
Labubu Furniture Is Happening. Now that many have gotten their hands on the coveted creatures, some are doing more than simply taking their Labubu home to display or putting them on bags.
Labubu is not the first toy craze, and it certainly won’t be the last. What makes the Labubu a must-have, or any toy for that matter, is a decades-old question that toy makers have yet to figure out.
Parents expect to spend US$548 on kids’ holiday gifts this year. SuperAwesome is predicting the Christmas shopping season will start earlier in 2025, as families hunt for sales and discounts.
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Stories, Comments, and Advice
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.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on July 18th ***
John Baulch, Toy World - Skeleton staff … it’s the Friday Blog! I popped into town for a few things last Sunday, and I am beginning to notice the impact of the Chancellor’s NI and minimum wage changes at retail. I started in Choice, where the lady on the tills was bemoaning the fact that she was literally running the whole store on her own – and it’s not a small outlet by any means.
Would You Pay Nearly $9,000 for a Puzzle? Some of the most devoted hobbyists are willing to shell out big bucks for what one called “a couture puzzle.”
Toymaker behind Lite Brite and Operation also designed this Evanston, IL home. In the mid-1960s, Marvin Glass, head of a Chicago toy design firm, fashioned the home from a former carriage house. It's going on the market at ...
When learning is play: How play-based education creates stronger foundations. Play-based education has become more than just a popular
choice in preschools. It’s now being seen as a powerful method...
Watch thief steal $100,000 worth of Pokemon cards #Shorts. A masked thief broke into a collectibles store and stole $100,000 worth of Pokemon cards in Massachusetts. The suspect has yet to be identified.
Top 100 best toys of all time named by experts - see if your favourite made full list. Hamleys has put together what it thinks are the 100 greatest toys of all time, ranging from age-of favourites to new technology.
This Wacky Omni-Directional E-Bike Has the Rear Wheel Mounted Sideways. Famous British inventor James Bruton is relentless in his exploration of wacky robotics and unconventional mobility systems. The latest project he's been working on is a sidewinding chopper-style omni-bike.
Conrail employees called heroes for saving man from flooding. Less than 10 miles from Plainfield, New Jersey — where two women were killed after their car was swept into Cedar Brook — floodwaters nearly claimed another life. In Piscataway, two Conrail employees are hailed as heroes for their actions.
‘We’ve become a fixture of people’s childhoods’: York Maze reveals 2025 design. Characters from Toy Story have been created in the 15-acre field using more than a million maize (corn) plants at the attraction near Elvington.
The Playground Podcast: The Young Inventors Challenge. Listen to a really special episode. We’re talking about the Young Inventor’s Challenge with program director Ahren Hoffman, Amy Saldana from kiddywampus, Hilary Key from The Toy Chest, and Julie Burczyk from Tools for Teaching.
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History and Nostalgia
How Etch a Sketch Became One of the Most Popular Toys of All Time. The mechanical drawing toy, which its French inventor called 'The Magic Screen,' let kids make art without making a mess.
Pirates of the Caribbean Ride History. This now-iconic attraction—initially envisaged as a small addition to a dining experience—quickly grew in popularity and marked the first completed application of Audio-Animatronics® technology for Walt and his team of Imagineers.
Memory Games from Milton Bradley. This advertisement from the 1980s shows how the company expanded the line to include themed editions, such as Animal Families Memory, as well as versions that required more memory skills, like Step-by-Step Memory and Match-and-Move Memory.
Garton Toy Company (1963). Over nearly a century, the Garton Toy Company manufactured a wide variety of ride-on toys in wood, metal, or a combination. The Sheboygan, Wisconsin-based company was once the largest manufacturer of wheel goods toys, with many models still sought after by collectors.
Vintage Game Demonstration: Color Match from Ideal. In 1982, Ideal launched the Color Match game, challenging players ages 7 and older to strategically position coloured tiles to achieve solid, matching colour fields across its grid.
Barbie Country Camper from Mattel. Released in 1970 by Mattel, the Barbie Country Camper playset took Barbie and friends from the playroom to the imagined wilderness without sacrificing style or comfort.
'Action Comics' #1 Superman Cover Wrap Goes for Over $400,000. An Action Comics #1 cover wrap hammered at over $400,000 at Heritage Auctions' June 26-29, 2025 Comic & Comic Art Signature Auction.
Masters of the Universe (MOTU) Hurricane Hordak from Mattel (1986). “You’re next, bone face.”
Licensing and Entertainment
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 above posted after tBR started circulating July 18th ***
To celebrate the anniversary of the beloved movie Clueless, Mattel and Paramount Consumer Products have teamed together for a nostalgia packed collaboration as iconic as Cher’s revolving closet. No, you’re not “totally buggin” – it really has been 30 years since Clueless first entered the pop culture zeitgeist.
Mattel Brick Shop Ignites Australian Collectible Market with Hot Wheels Collaboration, Featuring Racing Legend Craig Lowndes at the Wheel. The campaign kicks off with a standout model of the iconic 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL—personally built and customised by racing legend Craig Lowndes.
Bratz, the on-trend lifestyle and fashion doll brand from MGA Entertainment (MGA), has announced the launch of its Bratz x Clueless Collector dolls in collaboration with Paramount Consumer Products, a division of Paramount, whose Paramount Pictures produced the endlessly watchable 1995 classic.
DC Is Already Planning Two 'Superman' Spinoffs. Two breakout characters from the Superman movie may be getting spinoffs of their own, but do they have what it takes to carry a show all by themselves?
First image of new Harry Potter released as filming begins for TV series. JK Rowling's series of novels has already been made into a film, but HBO is now producing a TV series which is expected to take 10 years to complete.
Nintendo and Universal register copyright for Donkey Kong movie. Nintendo Studios LLC and Universal Pictures have registered a copyright for a Donkey Kong motion picture seemingly hinting that this could be the next big new project for Nintendo Studios LLC.
Nintendo’s Zelda movie has found its princess and hero of time. Via its news app, Nintendo announced that Bo Bragason (Renegade Nell, The Radleys) and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth (The Haunting of Bly Manor, Pinocchio) have been cast as Princess Zelda and Link, respectively.
My Little Pony Gallops into Live-Action with Upcoming Movie from Amazon MGM and Hasbro. The decades-old franchise — which has generated a bevy of toys, animated movies, TV shows and more since its inception — is getting the live-action treatment for the first time.
'PAW Patrol' Currently Casting Three New Female Recurring Characters. Larissa Mair Casting & Associates Inc. has announced that they are currently seeking three young performers from across Ontario to voice three new recurring female characters named Salty, Spice, and Sweets in PAW Patrol!
Global Galactics Launches with Industry Powerhouses to Ignite Wonder in Kids’ Entertainment. Global Galactics, a new kids’ entertainment company focused on inspiring curiosity and connection in kids ages 5 and up, has launched with the support of Beacon Communications and Kids Industries.
Is Superman Finally the Comic Book Movie That Sells Comics?. With Superman, Gunn sensibly ignored the 21st century trend of trying to make superhero movies "believable" by drenching everything in world-weary cynicism and shades of gray.
MAJOR and AEW Team Up for ‘Big Rubber Guys’ Line, Fusing Retro Energy with Wrestling’s Future. MAJOR, the independent toy company built by fans, for fans, announced its new licensing partnership with professional wrestling promotion All Elite Wrestling (AEW) this past weekend.
Just Play Assembles Action-Packed Disney Doorables Expansion. Inside the surprise capsules, kids will find four of 50 characters, each posed mid-battle, and an epic background. The capsules easily snap together to create the ultimate multiversal battle or bookshelf display.
These ‘Wicked’ Care Bears Will Change Playtime for Good. Your family’s favorite Care-A-Lot residents are heading to the Emerald City! Basic Fun! and Universal Products & Experiences will release a collection of Galinda-fied Care Bears, where each plush resembles a Wicked: For Good character.
Sky Kids to wind down commissioning. The broadcaster will honor all existing commitments, but will not be ordering any more new original kids programming, opting to pursue an acquisitions-focused strategy instead going forward—and some small team changes are expected as a result.
Box Office: ‘Superman’ Saves the Day for DC Studios With $122M Domestic Opening, $217M Globally. James Gunn's tentpole appears to be succeeding in rebooting the Warner Bros.-owned DC and its most prized superhero franchise.
Streaming Ratings: ‘Bluey’ Reign Continues in First Half of 2025, ‘Squid Game’ Leads Originals. Nielsen’s rankings for January to June show library series continue to accumulate the most viewing time.
Colombia’s Burgeoning Animation Scene Finds Its Voice With Afro-Colombian Tales, Eco-Activism and Myth at BAM. Colombian animation is hitting a fresh stride, driven by a mix of social storytelling, ancestral mythologies and new talent, plus determined governmental support.
‘Talking Tom’ Games and ‘Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir’ Set Year-Long Crossover Event, Including Roblox Collab. Two mega children’s franchises are teaming up for an epic year-long global crossover event: Outfit7’s “Talking Tom & Friends” and Miraculous Corp.’s “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir.”
Legendary’s ‘Street Fighter’ Movie Casts Vidyut Jammwal As Dhalsim. Indian action star Vidyut Jammwal (Commando) has landed the role of Dhalsim in Legendary’s live-action Street Fighter movie, based on the video games from Capcom, sources tell Deadline.
Tom Holland Teases ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Will Be A “Breath Of Fresh Air” As It Will Lean Into “Old-School” Moviemaking. It looks like the MCU franchise itself will also go back to the beginning in terms of its moviemaking approach.
Harrison Ford, Aimee Lou Wood and Cooper Koch Among First-Time Emmy Nominees in Acting Categories. Other people up for their first Emmys include Owen Cooper, Kristen Bell, Colin Farrell, Chloë Sevigny, Adam Brody and Martin Scorsese.
‘Harry Potter’: Nick Frost Transforms Into Hagrid in New Look at HBO Series. Fresh off HBO’s announcement that its upcoming “Harry Potter” series has officially started production — and the network has revealed the first image of Nick Frost as the lovable half-giant.
'Mortal Kombat 2' Will Be All About The Series’ Most Lovable Loser. From Karl Urban’s hilarious turn as Hollywood’s B-list playboy Johnny Cage to the debut of series antagonist Shao Kahn, Mortal Kombat 2 seems to be a perfect follow-up to the flawed but fun 2021 film.
‘Barbie’ Animated Film in the Works at Illumination, Mattel Studios. The project will be the first theatrically released animated “Barbie” film after years of straight-to-video animated movies. It also marks Illumination’s second project based around an outside IP after “Super Mario Bros. Movie.”
‘Lilo & Stitch’ Becomes Hollywood’s First Movie to Hit $1 Billion in 2025. After eight weekends in theaters, the family comedy has grossed $416.1 million in North America and $584.8 million internationally for a global tally of $1.001 billion.
‘Invincible’ Gets Early Season 5 Renewal At Prime Video; Matthew Rhys Joins Voice Cast. Ahead of its Season 4 premiere in 2026, Prime Video has renewed its Emmy-nominated adult-animated superhero series for a fifth season.
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People of Play
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”...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 18th ***
When Mark Rober built a glitter bomb for porch pirates he sparked a global movement around science storytelling that is now on track to transform STEM education for the next generation. His latest ambition? To reach one billion brains.
Behind the Success of KenKen: An Interview with Entrepreneur Robert Fuhrer. Robert Fuhrer explores his years-long journey in the toy and game industry in this interview. He reminisces about the many experiences that shaped his career from early exposure to the toy industry, his first creation, his various partnerships and ventures and how he ended up being the owner of the popular puzzle game, KenKen.
The United Inventors Association (UIA) has named Mary Couzin, SVP and founder/leader of People of Play at The Toy Association™, as one of its Inspire Top 24 of 2024. Couzin is well known in the global toy and game industry for her dedication to supporting the inventor and design community
Lucky Duck brings in former Quartermaster Logistics sales director Matt Goldrick to boosts B2B localisation, licensing arm. Goldrick previously spent almost five years with Quartermaster, joining as sales manager before being named director of sales and business development at the start of 2023.
STC Group appoints new regional business development director. STC Group has appointed toy industry stalwart Will Sharman, who will be bringing his decades-long experience in the toy industry with a move to the Hong Kong Standards and Testing Centre.
@Super7 Appoints Toy Industry Veteran Geoff Walker as CEO to Lead Next Phase of Growth. Geoff Walker has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, while founder Brian Flynn will focus on his role as Chief Creative Officer and continue serving on the company’s board.
BBC Studios Appoints Dion Vlachos as SVP of Consumer Products, North America. In this newly announced role, Vlachos will oversee the growth and development of BBC Studios’ brands across the U.S. and Canada, including Bluey, Doctor Who, and new business initiatives.
Kids TV maven Gary Milne sets up shop. With this new venture, the former creative director of Banijay Kids & Family is offering support to clients at any point in a project’s lifecycle—from input during the concept stage and providing market insights, to helping to create engaging characters.
Hasbro's Kaiser Ramos discusses new launches for FurReal, Jem and the Holograms – and the key to fruitful creative collaborations. Kaiser Ramos – Associate Product Development Manager in licensing at Hasbro – talks Brandsuntapped through collaborations with Just Play and The Loyal Subjects.
Companies and Brands
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.
*** The above posted after tBR starting circulating on July 18th ***
Go Bananas: Moose Toys Acquires Bananagrams. This move strengthens Moose Toys’ growing games portfolio and brings together two family-owned companies that value creativity and innovation in play. Moose Toys launched its games division three years ago and has been developing it ever since.
Hasbro Introduces Connect 4 Frenzy, a New Twist on the Classic Game. Instead of taking turns, players race to bounce their discs off the table and into a horizontal grid, aiming to get four in a row while intercepting and stealing opponents’ spots along the way.
Moose Toys has announced a new distribution partnership in Italy with one of the country’s most respected names in the toy industry, Rocco Giocattoli. The partnership took effect in June 2025 and sees Rocco Giocattoli take over distribution of Moose’s award-winning portfolio, including popular brands such as Little Live Pets and Bluey.
Target to open 8 new stores this summer. The larger strategic plan includes a $4 billion to $5 billion investment this year in stores, supply chain and technology, along with a merchandise revamp featuring an emphasis on private labels and newness.
Master Replicas Announce #SDCC Exclusives. All of the exclusives are priced at $24.99 and will be available in person from Booth #531/533, with new stock released every day. Anyone attending SDCC in person will have a chance to collect exclusive collectible promo cards.
Mattel Creations launches in ANZ. By launching Mattel Creations in Australia and New Zealand, Mattel is bringing its global collector platform to local audiences with exclusive drops, artist collaborations and fast domestic shipping for the first time.
Airfix releases new parts and reintroduces new moulds. New parts are now available for the Consolidated B-24D Liberator and Boeing Chinook HC.1 (Late), and modelers can also get new moulds of the Fokker Eindecker and Royal Aircraft Factory BE2c.
Connetix and The Kid Collective launch charity partnership. The Kid Collective will work with Connetix to raise funds for the charity which provides care and support to babies, children and young people with life-limiting and terminal illness across the East Midlands.
YuMe Toys expands in anime with original collectibles. YuMe Toys, a leader in licensed collectibles, continues to expand its presence in the anime category with a stand-out launch of its original, in-house designed lines through late 2025 and into 2026.
The Lego Store Cardiff set to relocate. The new and improved store will offer visitors opportunities to fully immerse themselves in the world of Lego building, with imagination and creativity throughout the store.
Claire’s Accessories appoints restructuring advisors. The accessories, jewellery and toys retailer Claire’s Accessories has appointed restructuring specialist Interpath as it reportedly mulls a sale. The retailer has an outstanding loan of £355m which must be repaid by December 2026.
Tonies gets ready to celebrate 10th anniversary. As Tonies comes up to its 10th anniversary year, the brand reflects on how its bold vision to reimagine how children experience storytelling has grown into a global parenting essential.
Tamagotchi Paradise launches with in-store events. Saturday 12th July saw Tamagotchi fans celebrate the evolution of the brand at a number of store locations, where photo opportunities, giveaways and more delighted the crowds.
Relatable Teams Up with Sam and Colby for Hunt A Killer: The Haunting at Wicker Ridge. Combining the classic mystery element of the Hunt A Killer series with the thrill of the paranormal, Relatable brings fans the newest entry to the series, Hunt A Killer: The Haunting of Wicker Ridge.
Re-Introducing the Rubik’s® WOWCube®, a New Spin on the Beloved Puzzle from Leading Global Children’s Entertainment Company Spin Master and Cubios. The Rubik’s WOWCube is a new handheld smart device and gaming platform that’s set to turn gaming and tech upside down.
Tonies Introduces New Ms. Rachel Tonie to Its Screen-Free Catalog. Kids can listen and respond to interactive prompts, sing along to Ms. Rachel’s favorite songs, and dance around while learning about colors, feelings, letters, and routines.
PUMA, Jazwares Collaborate, Create Squishmallows Sneakers. Shoe company PUMA and toy company Jazwares are once again teaming up to create the ultimate comfort wear: the Squishmallows x PUMA 2.0 collection.
Dynamite Goes with Simon & Schuster. Simon & Schuster Distribution Services will handle sales to book chains, indie bookstores, other non-comic brick and mortar retailers, e-commerce retailers, and libraries worldwide.
Asmodee announces new Flip 7 game. Flip 7 isn’t just an average deck. There’s only one 1, two 2s, three 3s, all the way up to seven. The more players flip, the more they score, but flipping a duplicate means the game is over.
Sideshow Unveils Life-Size Pikachu Collectible. You may need to make some extra space on your shelves to fit this figure into your collection, but the figure is packed with details that every Pokémon fan will appreciate, including a wide smile, bright red cheeks, and perked-up ears.
The Nacelle Company Unveils First-Ever Biker Mice From Mars SDCC Exclusive Figure Sets. The Nacelle Company is revving up excitement for Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) with the reveal of two exclusive figure sets based on Biker Mice From Mars.
Pillow People Celebrate 40 Years with Cozy Comeback for Collectors and Kids. The new collection blends the charm of the original characters with ultra-soft, huggable materials and modern design updates, delivering nostalgia for longtime fans and comfort for a new generation of kids.
Jellycat pulls supply leaving independent shop owners confused. The BBC spoke to owners and managers from four independent shops who said they had been hurt and surprised when Jellycat abruptly told them it would stop supplying them.
DKB to launch Kid Kreations’ BedHedz. BedHedz taps into the booming global cotton doll trend—a phenomenon that gained traction in South Korea’s fandom culture. There, stylised plush dolls resembling idols and celebrities became popular collectibles, allowing fans to feel closer to their favourite stars.
Canal Toys celebrates success of Photo Creator Mini Cam collection. With built-in colour filters, video mode, flash and instant playback, Canal Toys says kids are loving the freedom to snap, style and share without the need of a phone.
Connetix Creates More Play Opportunities with New Building Sets. Connetix continues to encourage educational, open-ended play by revealing three new building packs. Consumers can encourage kids to explore their imaginations with packs featuring new tiles, varying in size, shapes, colors, and more.
Ethical Supply Chain Program Marks 10 Years of Family-Friendly Spaces Initiative. First piloted in 2016 at two factories in China, the program was developed in response to research identifying a lack of childcare as the primary reason for worker attrition.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
Halfbrick Studio’s Jetpack Joyride launches a limited-time experience with Mattel’s Masters of the Universe later this summer. Jetpack Joyride is a mobile game. Starting July 30, players can take part in a Masters of the Universe-inspired version of the game.
Goliath opens Polish games development studio. Goliath Digital Studios is set to revamp classic titles such as Sequence and Triominos, turning them into digital games under the leadership of industry veteran Vincent Vergonjeanne.
The best Mario Kart tracks, ranked. It might come as a bit of a shock if you haven’t been paying attention, but Mario Kart is far and away the most popular Nintendo franchise. That’s right, not even the mainline Mario games or best Pokémon games sell as many copies as this kart racer.
Report: Candy Crush maker King is allegedly replacing laid off employees with AI tools. Microsoft-owned developer King, best known for the Candy Crush series, is reportedly replacing a number of employees with AI tools created internally.
SEGA boss wants to revive the SEGA spirit of the 80s and 90s. SEGA president Shuji Utsumi has said in a recent interview that he wants to revive the SEGA spirit of the 80s and 90s, which is when the company was in top form with multiple successful IPs and a company which wasn’t afraid to take risks.
Arc System Works has apparently canceled a new Guilty Gear game. Sources have told the publication that the aforementioned game’s cancellation took place within the last couple of weeks and a reason hasn’t been given over the reasoning.
Overwatch 2 director admits Blizzard needs to ‘get back to’ story content. Overwatch 2 remains a popular online multiplayer game with a large community, but Activision-Blizzard have had to fight tooth and nail against growing competition in the online multiplayer space and the mishandling of the IP.
Camelot Software is in late stages of development work. The revered team at Camelot Software, the developers behind the Golden Sun franchise ands Mario Tennis and Mario Golf, are currently in the late stages of developing a project.
MGA’s Miniverse™ Goes Mobile! New Make It Mini™ Game Brings Big Fun in Tiny Form. Make It Mini is a mobile game that extends the play and engagement with MGA’s Miniverse Make It Mini™ viral DIY collectible lines and empowers users with creativity and never-before-seen community tools.
Rumour: Square Enix apparently developing Dragon Quest VII Remake for 2026. The next Dragon Quest game Square Enix is looking to give the remake treatment is the PlayStation One title Dragon Quest VII.
Japan: Nintendo asking for feedback on Game-Key Cards. Game-Key Cards are obviously a cheap way of distributing physical games, but the majority of players would rather have an actual 64GB cartridge with the full game on it.
Final Fantasy producer says there’s no clear-cut winner between turn-based and action combat. The success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sparked many a discussion online regarding whether or not the mainline Final Fantasy games should go back to turn-based combat.
Nate the Hate claims Nintendo Direct planned for July after Donkey Kong Bananza release. Reasonably respected video game event leaker Nate the Hate has said in a new video that he had heard from his sources that the next Nintendo Direct presentation is scheduled for later this month.
Donkey Kong Bananza turns destruction into joy. With the Nintendo Switch 2 finally out in consumers' hands for more than a month now and the luster of the console's newness fading, we're left asking, "What's this thing actually capable of?"
Report: Nearly 8,000 games on Steam disclose GenAI use. Ichiro Lambe, CEO of Totally Human Media and former Steam Labs developer, used Steam's API via an internal game discovery platform to get the results.
Sega, Netflix and others will let Roblox creators monetize their major franchises. Roblox's new licensing platform will let UCG creators earn revenue by crafting experiences based on franchises including Like a Dragon and Stranger Things.
Destiny 2 Recast Iconic Voice Actors For Edge Of Fate. Fans were quick to notice that some of the characters in the expansion sounded off, including Ikora Rey, originally voiced by Gina Torres, who now sounds a lot like Savathun from The Witch Queen, who is voiced by Debra Wilson.
Gaming in their golden years: why millions of seniors are playing video games. Adults over the age of 50 represent nearly a third of US gamers and are becoming more visible in the mainstream.
DressX enters Roblox with new game, collabs with Puma. The game offers mystery boxes players can unlock through randomized drops. Players can wear mystery box items for free within the game, with the option to purchase them using Robux to wear across the Roblox platform.
A gritty Pac-Man reboot makes for surprisingly solid Metroid-style action. The concept of a gritty reboot of Pac-Man first reared its strange head in Secret Level, an anthology that turned notable video games into animated shorts that mostly felt like extended commercials.
Report: Wardogs developer Bulkhead is laying off workers. Via LinkedIn, employees have written farewell posts during the past day, claiming that their jobs have been made redundant, and that they've been "affected by the most recent round of layoffs at Bulkhead."
Virtuos confirms it's laying off 270 workers across Asia and Europe. External developer partner Virtuos has announced a round of layoffs affecting around seven percent of its workforce, effectively impacting 270 roles.
Japan: Nintendo Switch 2 sells 71K units while Switch family still sold 13K units. There’s no stopping the Nintendo Switch 2. The Switch 2 sold 71,885 units while the original Nintendo Switch family managed to sell an additional 13,411 units.
Highlighted Press Releases
($100/week/press release in this highlighted section and on newsletter sent Friday)
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).
*** The above posted after tBR circulated July 18th ***
MAKE MUSIC COUNT: THE BEST WAY TO MAKE MATH LESSONS MUSIC TO CHILDREN’S EARS
The Make Music Count App and Keyboard Kits Demystify Math and Frame it in a Fun and Relevant Cultural Context. Atlanta, GA (July 10, 2025) – Math! The scariest school subject for many kids, but a critical one to understand. Some children would do anything to avoid math class, and it’s no wonder. In many public schools, a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching math, based on repetition, lectures and sheer memorization fails to connect with so many kids. We all have our own aptitudes, learning styles and cultural backgrounds which make this approach...
Safety and Counterfeiting
Reddit is rolling out age verification in the UK. Reddit announced on Monday that UK users will need to upload a selfie or a photo of their government ID in order to view content that’s restricted for under-18s by the UK Online Safety Act (OSA), including abusive, violent, and sexually explicit materials.
Thousands of ‘toxic’ toys are recalled in UK over chemical that ‘can damage children’s reproductive systems’. Parents are urged to immediately remove the toys from their children, and dispose of them responsibly.
Beach toys made from marine by-products among projects from Politecnico di Milano. Dezeen School Shows: biodegradable beach toys made from algae and discarded shells are among the design projects from students at Politecnico di Milano.
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
2025 Spiel Des Jahres Award Winners Announced. The Spiel des Jahres jury has announced the winners of the 2025 awards for Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year), Kinderspiel des Jahres (Children's Game of the Year), and Kennerspiel des Jahres (Connoisseur Game of the Year).
Alex Kirsch, Age 16, Won at the Young Inventor Challenge!. During last 10+ years, over 10,000 kid entrepreneurs — Kidpreneurs — between the ages of 6 and 18 have entered the Young Inventor Challenge hosted by the Chicago Toy and Game Fair (CHITAG), North America’s largest consumer toy and game fair!
“New Connections – Nearshoring opportunities in the Northern Triangle of Central America” is being hosted by the Ethical Supply Chain Program on Wednesday 16th July.
Kids India Roadshow gets off to strong start. Prominent participation from Gujarat-based companies at the trade fair will be bolstered by local industry meetings in Mumbai, Jalandhar and Hyderabad.
A Sneak Peek into Brand Licensing Europe 2025. Anna Knight, Senior VP at Informa Markets’ Global Licensing Group, shared some insights into the upcoming 2025 edition of Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), taking place October 7-9, 2025, in London.
*Assembly Required & GoHero Bring the First-Ever "The Designer Toy Art Festival" to Philadelphia, August 1–10. The successful *Assembly Required show teams up with pop culture powerhouse GoHero and local creative agency POP Solutions, to bring over 100 indie brands together.
Comic-Con 2025 Schedule: ‘Star Trek,’ ‘Alien: Earth,’ ‘Project Hail Mary’ and George Lucas’ First-Ever Appearance. San Diego Comic-Con is rolling out its schedule for the 2025 convention this week, which runs from July 24–27.
Apply by Aug. 22 to Present on the Toy Fair® 2026 University Stage. The Toy Association™ is reminding thought leaders from across the global toy and play community to apply to present at Toy Fair® University, taking place throughout Toy Fair from February 14 to 17, 2026 at the Javits Center.
Winner Announced: 2025 Hot Wheels Legends Tour – July 12 Kansas City Event (PR). With more than 155 cars competing and 7,000 fans in attendance, Kansas City local Clint DeVine won the judges over with his custom 1990 Chevrolet S10 Truck.
#SDCC NEWS: @POPMART Unveils Exclusive Releases & IT’SUGAR POP-UP SHOP. From July 24–27, booth #135 will be transformed into the Ultimate Play Stop, inviting fans to fuel their sense of fun and step into a world where imagination knows no speed limit.
Etopia to host Amazon event for toy brands. Set in the heart of London on Thursday 11th September, this event promises sharp insights, honest talk and practical Amazon tactics from insiders and industry experts.
Hasbro, Sideshow Present First-Ever Cold Slither Performance and More at SDCC. Hasbro and Sideshow are collaborating to bring a new G.I. Joe experience to Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC).
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.
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Toy Trade Monthly & Special Issues
Adventure Media & Events (US)
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‘Wicked: For Good’ Takes Flight in Mattel’s Latest Collection (The Toy Book)
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The Pop Insider’s SDCC Comic-Con Coverage Hub (The Pop Insider)
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Previewing the Holidays’ Hottest Toys at Sweet Suite on PIX 11 New York (The Toy Insider)
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Legendary UK Retailer Hamleys Unveils Top 100 Toys of All Time (The Toy Book)
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Super7 Appoints Geoff Walker as CEO to Accelerate Growth Strategy (The Toy Book)
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MAJOR Announces Licensing Partnership with AEW for Big Rubber Guys Figure Line (The Toy Book)
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Shimmering Shapes: Connetix Reveals Glitter Tiles in Two New Packs (The Toy Book)
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Exploring Digital Worlds: Nintendo Brings Exploration Video Games to Its Consoles (The Toy Book)
Toyworld (UK)
Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld
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BLE reveals first look at 2025 conference and networking agenda
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Master Replicas launches new Foundation model ships with exclusive costume giveaway
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Rocketship Entertainment kicks off Angry Birds Kickstarter campaign
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Care Bears re-imagines Wicked: For Good characters for new collection
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- 'Secret Lair X Sonic the Hedgehog' Bonus 'Magic: The Gathering' Cards Unveiled
- Vintage 'Magic: The Gathering' Singles Prices Struggle
- 2025 Spiel des Jahres Award Winners Announced
- Atomic Mass Announces Four New 'Star Wars: Legion' Miniatures Expansion Packs
- 'Pokemon TCG' Undergoes a 'Mega Evolution'
- Wizards of the Coast Reveals New 'Magic: The Gathering' Event Promos
- New 'Dungeons & Dragons' Starter Set Incoming
- Rolling for Initiative -- Green Ronin Vs. Diamond; 'Horus Heresy' Sales Soft
- People on the Move: Christian Moore Joins Paizo
- R.I.P. Alan Hassenfeld
Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)
Global Toy News
The Bugg Report (Australia)
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Moose Toys Powers Up Games Portfolio with Bananagrams Brand Acquisition
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KEYCRAFT Is Excited to Reveal 2025’S Must-have Pocket Money Toys!
The Toy Universe (Australia)
hobbyDB
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Co-op designs continue to dominate board gaming’s biggest prize as Bomb Busters seals Spiel des Jahres win. “I’m rather worried about the restriction of liberties of all sorts in the US”: Spiel des Jahres chairman takes aim at Trump policies, tariffs during awards ceremony
Toy Store (Italy)
TAGIE Awards 2025, nominations for the awards open
Video of the Week!
Hoppers | Teaser Trailer | In theaters March 6, 2026
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Thank you for being a reader of the Bloom Report. — Mary
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/Editor: Mary Couzin, SVP Toy Association, Founder & Lead People of Play, formerly Chicago Toy & Game Group
Assistant Editor: Evan Kale
Not only does the Bloom Report give you all the news you need to know...
we give you all the news you didn't know you needed to know!" -Phil Bloom
Do you have news to share? Send me a note! mcouzin@toyassociation.org
