Companies, Brands . . .  

Mattel Earns Great Place to Work Certification. At Mattel, our purpose is to empower the next generation to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We know this incredible work wouldn’t be possible without our people, which is why we are thrilled to share that Mattel is now Certified™ by Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture. 

Jakks Pacific is updating its baby doll line with a variety of new outfits and revised sculpts reflecting the character traits of each ethnicity. The Perfectly Cute collection from Jakks Pacific is known for its diversity. The dolls, which are available in 8- and 14-inch scales, are offered in various ethnicities and skin tones including African-American, Asian, Latinx, and Caucasian. 

Here’s some fantastic news from Hasbro Pulse: There’s a new wave of Fantastic Four Marvel Legends figures. As revealed in a Fan First Monday livestream yesterday, this wave includes six 6-inch-scale Fantastic Four characters, all in retro packaging and featuring classic comics-inspired designs. The lineup includes Mr. Fantastic, Marvel’s Invisible Woman, Human Torch, Marvel’s Thing, Psycho Man...

FULL EPISODE OF SPIN MASTER’S ‘BAKUGAN: GEOGAN RISING’ SET TO PREMIERE ON ROBLOX, Kids are obsessed with Roblox, the multiplayer video game that allows users to program games that others can experience and enjoy. Recently, the Roblox platform has been giving thanks to its fans by hosting a lineup of digital experiences, including online performances by Lil Nas X and KSI...

ZURU recently launched Angel High, a new line of six dolls with swappable fashion accessories and wings. Each doll includes 10 surprises that are unique to their personality and comes packaged inside a clear capsule with peek-a-boo window that transforms into a display. Surprises range from hairstyles, outfits, mini wings, fashion, jewelry, eyewear, hair accessories (brush, color-changing clip, and extension), and...

Google's Stadia launches kids section  With a focus on reaching families playing together, the soon-to-launch section will include six titles from Outright Games. Launching August 13, the new category signals Stadia’s growing commitment to reaching younger demos and the increasing number of families who game together, according to a release from Stadia.

ACTF & Stan put out call for kids features  Beginning today, eligible writers, producers and creators can submit original Australian live-action concepts targeting youth and family audiences. Applications are now open for original live-action feature ideas that are at least 80 minutes in length. The projects have to have a G or PG rating, and should be aimed at either children aged six to 12 and their families, or tweens...

Melissa & Doug announces sustainability initiative  New initiative, Project Restore, cements the company's commitment to "making timeless, sustainable toys for a thriving and inclusive world." The initiative, called Project Restore, will guide the company in its existing work on environmental responsibility, social equity and inclusion, as well as its ambitious new plan to make the world a better place.

Lalaloopsy is back by popular demand thanks to MGA  The release, which will reintroduce 25 Lalaloopsy dolls with a focus on DIY crafting and traditional doll play, marks the brand's 10th anniversary. Lalaloopsy offers a whimsical world of characters with unique personalities derived from the fabric used to sew them, inspiring kids to develop their own creativity.

Nacelle pivots to launch its own toy brand The company behind Netflix's The Toys That Made Us is shifting from documenting toys to reviving Robo Force with new products and a series. Now, Nacelle is gearing up to jumpstart the ’80s IP again with a new show and consumer products push. 

Cartoon Network Studios, WBA expand into anime  Adult Swim exec Jason DeMarco will oversee the studios' growth into long-form anime and action series for all ages. In this newly created role DeMarco started on August 1, he reports to Sam Register, president of both Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios, and Michael Ouweleen, president of Adult Swim.

Funko eyes international growth after record second quarter and major executive moves.  Funko’s president, Andrew Perlmutter is to be appointed the firm’s new CEO as Brian Mariotti transitions to the newly created role of chief creative officer, detailing the top level moves the same week the firm delivered ‘its largest topline quarter in company history.’ Last week, the pop culture specialist revealed that second quarter net sales 

Rubies hails inclusivity with new Adaptive Costumes  Rubies' range of Adaptive Costumes has been designed for children with limited mobility, letting every child join in roleplay and dress-up. Specialised design features include back openings in the trousers and skirts, which allow wheelchair users to dress in bed or in a laying down position.

Hasbro hosts camps for children battling life-threatening illnesses.  Hasbro Children’s Hospital is back to hosting two very special camps for children battling serious illnesses, after pausing for a year during the height of the pandemic. The hospital hosted Camp Grace last week and is hosting Camp Dotty this week.

Breaking Games Launches Multiple Highly Anticipated Games in Top Retailers Across the Nation.  Some new games include the ubiquitous Cards Against Humanity with their latest Cards Against Humanity: Family Edition Glow in the Dark edition; Café Chaos by TheOdd1sOut, which has a wildly popular YouTube channel with more than 17 million followers; and a brand-new IP called PANDO, which helps people...

The Best Nickelodeon Character Bracket. As Nicktoons’ 30th anniversary approaches, it’s time to celebrate the heroes, villains, sponges and starfish, and cats and dogs who redefined children’s programming in the 1990s and beyond. Nick can mean many different things to many different people depending on when, exactly, they were between the ages of 6 and 16. The generational divide is most cleanly drawn...

MGA unveils new Glitter Babyz nurturing doll range.  The Glitter Babyz dolls feature large eyes filled with distinctive nature imagery, plus accessories that promote imaginative, nurturing play. MGA Entertainment‘s new range Glitter Babyz introduces Dreamia Stardust, January Snowflake, Lila Wildbloom and Solana Sunburst to nurture doll lovers aged three and above. 

The Toy Book chats with Ross Hyman, director of product development and marketing at Alex Global Products, about the company’s legacy, evolution, and future plans. Toy Book: Alex Global Products emerged during a tumultuous year. What are the key differences between the former Alex Brands and the new Alex Global Products?

Mattel launches Lucille Ball Barbie doll for 70th anniversary of I Love Lucy.  There is no greater female icon in the world of comedy than Lucille Ball and her legacy will continue to inspire others for many years to come. In celebration of the star’s 110th birthday (Ball was born Aug 6th, 1911) and the upcoming 70th anniversary of her sitcom I Love Lucy, Mattel is launching its new Tribute Collection with a Barbie doll modeled...

(the above posted after August 6th)

How do you playtest a board game for 5-year-olds?  Inside the creative process at HABA, the German tabletop giant.  TheThe very concept of the kindergarten was born in Germany, and with it the idea that young children can learn a lot through play. It’s no wonder then that some of the world’s best educational children’s games are made there as well. But how do you go about designing games for five-year-olds? 

Disney to open Vancouver studio for long-form animated series  Led by Amir Nasrabadi, the new studio will be focused on shows for Disney+, such as the upcoming Moana. Nasrabadi most recently served as EVP and general manager at WildBrain Studios in Vancouver, and previously oversaw Pixar Canada as VP and general manager. He also held senior leadership roles with Illumination and Paramount Animation.

Mattel plans to halve its greenhouse gas emissions and hit zero manufacturing waste by 2030  Mattel has detailed new plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent and achieve zero manufacturing waste by 2030 in its 2020 Citizenship Report. The report, published today, features updated Environmental, Social, and Governance strategy and goals, while underscoring the toy maker’s previously...

LEGO redoubles commitment to Asia Pacific with government partnership to invest in its Singapore Hub.  LEGO has underlined its commitment to expansion in Singapore and the Asia Pacific region with the promise of greater investment in developing key digital and creative teams at its Singapore hub. 

What's cooking at SmartLab Rachael Simpson-Jones spoke to George Scott, senior brand manager at SmartLab from The Quarto Group, to find out more. SmartLab is the only toy-centric ‘imprint’ from a portfolio of 33 brands within The Quarto Group, a leading international publisher of books and intellectual property products. Created in 2004 to offer fun, fact-filled and fictional novelties for kids aged 8-14 years old...

Mattel Once Again Says #ThankYouHeroes by Supporting First Responders Children’s Foundation and Honoring Global Frontline Medical Workers with One-of-a-Kind Barbie Dolls.  Barbie® to donate $5 for each Barbie doctor, nurse or paramedic doll sold* at participating Target locations during the month of August. The brand is also spotlighting six women who are modern real-life heroes of the pandemic...

ZURU Launches Series 3 of Popular 5 Surprise Mini Brands Line.  The newest launch features the biggest collection yet, with more than 100 all new miniature versions of popular grocery and drugstore products. Some of the new teeny treats include Teddy Grahams, Hershey’s Chocolate, ICEE Slushies, and TGI Fridays.

Barbie honours vaccinologist Prof Dame Sarah Gilbert with one-of-a-kind doll  As well as Prof Gilbert, Barbie is honouring 5 other women in STEM around the world who it says are 'modern real-life heroes of the pandemic'. Prof Gilbert is the Saϊd Professor of Vaccinology at the University of Oxford and Project Leader for ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, a vaccine against the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 which is now in use in many countries...

Moose Toys Launches Blingle Bands Gem Friendship Bracelet Kits.  To celebrate National Friendship Day, Moose Toys launched Blingle Bands, a new craft kit series that combines diamond painting with wearable accessories. Kids ages 7 and up can follow the included templates or create their own designs by sticking colorful gems to the bracelet bands using a “dip, dot, bling” process.

MGA details Rainbow High autumn/winter launches.  MGA has seen strong growth for Rainbow High since its launch last year, retailing as the second top selling fashion doll for young girls. MGA Entertainment is also introducing its Winter Break Fashion Dolls range this month.  Rainbow High will also introduce the official designer collector doll, Jett Dawson.

Take on the Skatepark Nyjah Huston-Style with Spin Master's New Tech Deck Sets.  Six-time world champion skateboarder Nyjah Huston is sizing down his skatepark for some ultimate finger-shredding action. Spin Master‘s Tech Deck line is helping kids ages 6 and up bring this skate hero home with a set inspired by Huston’s private skatepark.

Golden Bear - Play today, protect tomorrow. Rachael Simpson-Jones found out about the company’s upcoming product launches, and why sustainability is currently taking centre stage. “I’ve never known a time filled with so many challenges outside our control,” says MD Barry Hughes at the start of our meeting, when asked how the company is faring. 

MGA Entertainment Drops a Little Tikes Dino Ride-on and a Massive L.O.L. Surprise Dollhouse.  The Little Tikes Chompin’ Dino Trike is a pedal-powered ride-on toy designed to look like a fearsome dinosaur. The new L.O.L. Surprise! House is a multi-story, wooden dollhouse that stands 4 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with four stories and 10 different rooms. 

Hasbro Builds up Its Monopoly Empire with a New Constructible Board Game.  Monopoly Builder, the newest addition to the Monopoly lineup, is Hasbro’s latest experiment that’s been recently released into major retailers. When players buy property in this iteration, they physically stack buildings with included builder’s blocks.

Funko Launches Philanthropic Pops! With Purpose Initiative to Debut at FunKon Auction.  The philanthropic mission connects Funko Pop! characters to causes that are important to the Funko community. Pops! With Purpose will debut through an auction at this year’s FunKon, which runs through Friday. 

Hasbro Reveals New Kid-Friendly Star Wars Lightsaber Forge Series. Customizable lightsabers are nothing new, but Hasbro is back with some new one with their brand new Lightsaber Forge series. This kid-friendly series continues the legacy of padawans creating their own unique weapons from the Star Wars universe.

Play-Doh has announced a Home Protection Service scheme designed to take the stress out of creating mess and encouraging kids to unleash their creativity. Play-Doh’s new Home Protection Service already has the stamp of approval from celebrity parents, including McFly’s Harry Judd, TV personality Ferne McCann, Author and TV presenter Candice Brathwaite and comedi-Mum Sophie McCartney, ...

Mattel launches environmentally focused UNO with artist and activist Shepard Fairey. The new deck has been designed by both Fairey and the UNO team at the artist’s LA studio, Studio Number One and features new, original environmentally-themed art in Fairey’s iconic graphic style and design elements. These elements include a consistent illustration style and colour palette to mirror the artist’s signature style.

Panda Mony to Release Alter Nation Phase 2 Action Figures. Setbacks from COVID-19 restrictions aren’t going to stop Panda Mony Toy Brands. Cancellations of the company’s 2020 live-event tour for its Toy-of-the-Year-nominated action figure brand, Alter Nation, compelled them to change their marketing approach, and even relocate to Tennessee. Alter Nation packaging indicated two new villains, Alpha and Bomber, would be...

The Insights Family expands again with new offices, new starters, and a new venture into Poland. The kids, parents, and family market intelligence outfit, The Insights Family is expanding once again; moving to a larger office space in Manchester city centre, opening a satellite office in Mayfair, London, welcoming three new starters to the company and launching its Kids Insights and Parents Insights businesses into Poland. 

Panini’s Premier League Adrenalyn XL returns for new season  The popular Premier League Adrenalyn XL Trading Card Game is back for the 2021/22 season with brand-new categories and a revamped look. With a stunning redesign, Panini’s world-renowned trading card game will hit shelves in the UK and Republic of Ireland on 5th August 2021, featuring top talent from across the Premier League.

Exploding Kittens announces two new games and jigsaw launch. Throw Throw Avocado and Exploding Kittens: Recipes for Disaster are the latest launches from the tabletop creator, which is also adding jigsaw puzzles to its range. Recipes for Disaster is the ultimate collection of favourite cards from the entire Exploding Kittens library in one box. New fans and experienced Exploding Kittens players can use the Recipe...

Mattel issues a pledge to be a better global citizen. Toy giant Mattel MAT +1% has written its 2020 Corporate Citizenship Report, a document that is both an assessment of its past efforts to be a good citizen of the world, and a promise to become an even better one. A big part of that pledge is a commitment to getting greener. In the report, an advance copy of which was shared by Mattel, the company reaffirms previously...

Wilder Toys, WowWee debut Masterchef Family Cooking Game. Families can get ready to gamify meal time with the latest board game from Wilder Toys and WowWee. In partnership with Endemol Shine North America, the companies are releasing the officially licensed MasterChef Family Cooking Game, inspired by the popular culinary competition series. 

Welcome to the Squishmallows quad! Population: Squishmillion. Hi, I’m Jack, and I’ll be your Squishmallows tour guide today. I’m the strong and silent type, butI’m always here when you need me. I’m not afraid to speak up for myself or for my friends. I can be a little feisty, but I love to cuddle. I love giving back and think we should always lend a helping hand.

Capstone Games asnnounces 'Boonlake'. Capstone Games announced Boonlake, a new board game by Alexander Pfister, for release into retail in mid-November. In this game, players assume the roles of pioneers that have left civilization to settle the shores of Boonlake, which has been abandoned by humans. Players will need to explore the landscape, build houses and settlements, raise cattle, and develop an...

Genius Brands expands ‘Rainbow Rangers’ global reach. The adventures of Rainbow Rangers are swinging into new countries around the world. Following the recent news that Never Wrong Toys inked a deal to serve as master toy partner for the property, Genius Brands International revealed new broadcast and streaming deals to expand the reach of Rainbow Rangers to entertain audiences on a global scale.

'No, Mr. Bond, I expect you to die' in 'Spectre: The Board Game'. Modiphius Entertainment revealed SPECTRE: The Board Game, a new 007 villain-themed board game, which will release in spring of 2022. In SPECTRE: The Board Game, players assume the roles iconic villains from the James Bond films vying for the opportunity to become SPECTRE’s Number One operative.

First Huffy bikes head to the UK as brand plans ‘huge development strategy’ for the market. The first shipment of Huffy bikes are now heading for the UK in a move that marks the beginning of a ‘huge brand development strategy’ for the company and its European distributor, United Wheels UK. The update follows the recent news of United Wheels UK’s expansion into Europe and its plans to have stock available to ...

Luma Imports will release 'Museum: Pictura' into U.S. retail. Luma Imports will release Museum: Pictura, a new set collection game, into U.S. retail in Q4. In Museum: Pictura, players take on the roles of curators in an art museum. Their goal is create collections of epic works of art for spectacular displays. 

Osprey seeks the unknown in 'Cryptid: Urban Legends'. The designers behind Osprey Games’ 2018 title Cryptid return to the hunt with the all-new head-to-head deduction game Cryptid:  Urban Legends, releasing in April 2022. In Cryptid:  Urban Legends, one player takes on the role of a scientist trying to capture the cryptid:  an unproven and possibly mythical creature that has made its home somewhere in the city.  T

Ravensburger NA reveals new 'Horrified' game. Ravensburger NA revealed Horrified: American Monsters, a standalone board game, for first release in October into Target stores. This game is a follow-up to 2019's Horrified, which featured the Universal Monsters. Horrified: American Monsters focuses on the monsters of American legend such as Bigfoot, Mothman, the Jersey Devil, the Chupacabra, and more. 

Thwart Cobra's evil schemes in 'G.I. Joe Deck-Building Game'. Renegade Game Studios will release G.I. Joe Deck-Building Game in October. Renegade has tapped another Hasbro IP that was included in their licensing expansion agreement (see " More Hasbro Brands For Games"). In G.I. Joe Deck-Building Game, players recruit Joes and Vehicles to send them to complete Missions that are included in the Story Pack. 

Minifigures Marvel Studios (71031) from LEGO. LEGO has a new Marvel-themed minifigure collection that ties directly into the original television series on the Disney+ streaming service. Minifigures Marvel Studios (71031) features 12 new figures, including The Scarlet Witch, The Vision, and Monica Rambeau from WandaVision; the Winter Soldier and Captain America from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Loki s …

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