Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
A Bloom of Remembrance and Respect This Memorial Day...
This weekend marks Memorial Day—a time to honor and remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.
My father (upper right in photo) was a Major in World War II and part of the forces that liberated concentration camps. He never spoke of those experiences to me or my siblings, but the impact was clear. At times, his anger revealed the battles he still fought within, and even the sight of blood when one of us was hurt was something he couldn’t bear.
Still, he was proud to have served. His uniform remained hanging in his closet until the end of his days—a quiet symbol of sacrifice, duty, and enduring pride.
With Gratitude and Respect to those Who Served,
Mary
Bloom Report Subscribers Say...
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Person of the Week - Hasbro's Kim Boyd
Be Curious and Never Stop Asking Questions
Welcome, Kim! What can you tell us about your new role within Hasbro’s licensed consumer products division?
Thanks for having me! As President of Global Toy & Licensed Consumer Products at Hasbro, it’s all about propelling our brands forward. I oversee many of our talented teams, helping streamline the workflow and integrating toys and games into the right campaigns.
How did you get into the toy and game industry?
No matter what toy, game, or brand you’re working with, this industry is about one thing: play. I have countless memories of family game nights and letting my imagination run wild when I was younger. The childhood joy of play made me realize I wanted to be a part of that myself helping families, play, connect, and imagine together.
What keeps you motivated?
Every day at Hasbro is full of opportunities to create magical moments that bring joy to millions. There’s a lot of lifelong impact and meaningful relationships that we are creating through our brands’ storytelling, and that forward momentum is what keeps me grounded.
Industry Commentary - Gray Matters Games' Joe Barron
Game Changers Who Go It Together
I've noticed a fun trend is emerging with game inventors - they all seem to be teaming up with a bestie to create a dynamic duo of innovation. It's like watching Dr. Dre drop the beat and Eminem spit mad rhymes. These collaboration stories are a behind-the-scenes peek at the magic that happens when inventors join forces—whether through accidental run-ins or emails that start with “Hey, this might be weird but…” From idea-swapping over pizza to tag-teaming prototypes across time zones, it’s proof that the best games are built with a buddy.
Together these inventor teams have dozens of games launching in the market over the next year with publishers like MindWare, Fat Brain, Gray Matters Games, Hootenanny Games, Mattel, Pandasaurus Games and more!
Industry Commentary - Balance Innovation's Rene Polin
Essential Human Skills
The heart of successful product design is a creative problem-solving approach called Human Centered Design (HCD). Most of your internal design teams, and any reputable consultant, already know the value of HCD. This method focuses on placing the people who will be using your product or service at the heart of design to create solutions that are functional, relevant, and enjoyable to them. Human Centered Design, just like Design Thinking, has been around long enough to now be considered essential approaches for any design team’s toolbox - table stakes: already baked in.
Designing with Empathy
The most important key principle of HCD is empathy. This includes observation, active listening, and contextual research to gain the best understanding of problems. When identifying challenges to solve, researchers want to know what people are doing, thinking, and feeling and where they are experiencing problems. The emotional connection made between the researcher and the user during ethnography is the super glue that holds this approach together.
With incredible advances in AI technology, it’s this empathy portion of the process that has garnered great interest and debate as of late. Read More...
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to the anonymous person for the cartoon this week!
Memorable Quotes: "What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead." - Nelson Mandela
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!
Financial and Legal
President Trump said on Sunday that he would delay imposing 50 percent tariffs on all imports from the European Union until July 9 to allow more time for trade negotiations.
*** the above posted after May 23rd when tBR circulated ***
Fillip, a holding company focused on scaling and revitalising iconic and disruptive properties in the sports and entertainment industries, announced that it completed the acquisition of Tycoon Enterprises, the leading brand licensing agency in Latin America, at the end of 2024.
This acquisition marks a decisive step in building a robust ecosystem of properties across the region.
Diamond Select Toys and Gentle Giant LTD Shuttered by New Owner?. While there has been no official word yet, the news over the weekend seems to be that both Diamond Select Toys and Gentle Giant Ltd were for all intents and purposes shut down on Friday and most if not, all employees were dismissed.
Judge calls out 'Apple official who is personally responsible' in Fortnite app order. Apple must work out its latest issues with Epic Games, or head back to court to prove it has a legal basis for delaying the restoration of the popular Fortnite game to its iOS App Store.
Chinese exporters are offering sweet deals to U.S. businesses. They often come wrapped in fraud. The practice, which has been around since Trump's first term, is gaining momentum as businesses scramble for workarounds to sidestep the new tariffs.
Federal Reserve will reduce staff by 10% in coming years, Powell memo says. The Federal Reserve will look to reduce its headcount by 10% over the next couple of years, including offering deferred resignation to some older employees, central bank Chair Jerome Powell said in a memo.
Trump signs the Take It Down Act into law. President Donald Trump signed the Take It Down Act into law, enacting a bill that will criminalize the distribution of nonconsensual intimate images (NCII) — including AI deepfakes.
Trump administration cuts funding for the Strong Museum of Play. The Trump administration's questionably legal cuts to federal programs have created a half-million dollar shortfall for the Strong National Museum of Play.
Universal Distribution completes Alliance Game Distributors buyout from Diamond Comics after chaotic bankruptcy auction. Canadian board game, TCG and comics distribution major Universal Distribution has completed its takeover of US peer Alliance Game Distributors.
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Financial Reporting, Tariffs
Target sales drop in 1st quarter and retailer warns they will slip for all of 2025. Quarterly sales fell 2.8% from last year to $23.85 billion, and that was short of the $24.23 billion Wall Street expected, according to FactSet. Target earned $1.04 billion, or $2.27 per share, for the period ended May 3. That compares with $942 million, or $2.03 per share, in the year-ago period.
Second federal court blocks Trump tariffs, this time for Illinois toy importers. A federal judge blocked Trump's tariffs for a pair of Illinois toy importers, the second ruling against the tariffs in as many days
*** The above posted after May 23rd when tBR circulated ***
A Video to President Trump. TOY TOP 10: Reasons to #KeepToysTariffFree. If you've wondered why toys are being discussed so much in relation to this administration's tariff policy with China, I hope you'll take a look at this video. And if you know someone, who knows Kevin Bacon, who knows someone, who knows Donald Trump, I'd appreciate you sharing this video with them
Walmart is cutting 1,500 corporate, tech-related jobs as part of a restructuring plan, reports say. News of the job cuts followed an announcement last week that Walmart is raising prices to counter President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Consumers Brace for Economic Storm, Confidence Plunges to 3-Year Low. Households are worried about inflation, about their own pressured finances as incomes and purchasing power weakens.
US signals reciprocal tariffs will return for some countries. The White House will alert countries of their specific rates in the next two to three weeks.
Trump tells Walmart to 'eat the tariffs' after retailer warned it will raise prices. Trump blasted Walmart after the retailer warned it would raise prices due to tariffs.
China's April retail sales growth of 5.1% misses expectations as consumption remains a worry. Industrial output grew 6.1% in April, stronger than analysts' expectations for a 5.5% rise.
China says U.S. undermined trade talks with Huawei chip warning. China accused the U.S. of undermining the two countries' preliminary trade agreement reached in Geneva, Switzerland.
JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon says markets are too complacent on tariffs, expects S&P 500 earnings growth to collapse. Jamie Dimon said markets and central bankers underappreciate the risks created by record U.S. deficits, tariffs and international tensions.
Chinese businesses stick to diversifying away from the U.S. despite trade truce, survey shows. The blistering trade war has left lasting scars on Chinese exporters with many diversifying away from the U.S..
Temu And Shein Still Caught In Crossfire Of Changing Tariff Policy. While the Trump administration announced a temporary trade deal Monday slashing tariffs on Chinese goods.
How Walmart Will Use Tariffs To Its Advantage And Hold The Line On Prices. Walmart will leverage tariffs to gain market share by encouraging competitors to raise prices while strategically keeping prices low where it matters most to customers.
Trump tariff pause bumps up China imports, but less retail choice and higher prices are coming: CNBC Supply Chain Survey. Importers are bringing in more goods with a recent tariffs pause, but not enough.
Over 50% of US firms plan to raise prices amid Trump trade war risks: survey. More than half of surveyed companies from the United States plan to raise prices on their products in response to tariffs.
Mexico will not choose sides in US-China tariff war, but envoy urges Beijing to boost trade. Mexico will not take sides in the US-China tariff war and aims to boost agricultural exports to tackle its trade imbalance with China.
Retail Earnings Continue; Target Disappoints While Lowe’s Reaffirms Guidance. Retail earnings are mixed as Lowe’s beats and Target warns. Revenue misses raise efficiency concerns.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
Lilo & Stitch and Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning have joined forces to deliver the biggest Memorial Day weekend box office in history, according to Variety. Lilo & Stitch brought in $145.5 million domestically over the weekend, and is projected to get a cumulative $180 once Memorial Day is through.
*** The above posted after May 23rd when tBR circulated ***
Circana: ‘The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered’ Ranks No. 1. The video game was April’s best-selling game and ranked third for best-selling game of 2025.
“Best of Spring & Summer 2025 Influencer Choice List” Unveiled by The Toy Association™ & Powered by Clamour. From road trip-ready games to screen-free boredom busters and toys perfect for backyard adventures, 24 of the season’s most buzzworthy toys and games were unveiled.
Top Market Trend Impacting Construction Toys Development in the Coming Years: Ravensburger Unveils Gravitrax Starter-Set Bounce To Redefine Innovation In The Construction Toys Market. The construction toys by The Business Research Company provides a comprehensive analysis of the industry, covering market size forecasts from 2025 to 2034.
Labubu frenzy as toys Aussies wait hours for sell for $1,000 online: ‘Hottest trend'. The Labubu craze isn’t going anywhere and some Australians are going to extremes to get their hands on the viral trinkets.
Plushie Pandemic: Labubu dolls take over as latest trend that has a grip over Australians and their wallets. Blink and you’ll miss the chance to buy them.
Stories, Comments, and Advice
The single, sole, biggest tire manufacturer in the world is…Lego. Yes, you read that right – the Danish toy maker is the biggest tire manufacturer in the world. And it is not by some small distance, either – in fact, Lego makes around 100 million more tires than Michelin. You might be sitting there scratching your head at how this is possible – but there’s a good explanation.
Maniac beats 60-year-old woman into coma at Beanie Babies founder’s California mansion. Russel Maxwell Phay, 43, of Nevada, was charged with first-degree attempted murder and related offenses for invading the Ty Inc. billionaire’s Montecito home...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated May 23rd ***
John Baulch, Toy world - I bet you look good on the dancefloor… it’s the Friday Blog! I’ve just arrived home after three very enjoyable and productive days at the Toymaster May Show in Harrogate. If you were there, you know… and if you weren’t, I’ll try my best to sum it up succinctly. Long story short, it was an extremely successful event.
“The secret of the Muppets,” Brett Goldstein explains, “is they’re not very good at what they do. Kermit’s not a great host. Fozzie is not a good comedian. None of them are actually good at it. But they love it. They’re like a family. They like putting on a show. And they have joy. And because of the joy, it doesn’t matter that they’re not good at it.” “And that,” concludes Goldstein, “is what we should all be like: Muppets.”
Pop Culture Perseverance: Funko Keeps Charging Forward. The Everett, Washington-based maker of Pop! Vinyl figures and a wide array of toys, collectibles, and lifestyle products under its Funko, Loungefly, and Mondo brands kicked off 2025 on a high note.
Tamagotchi Paradise has you caring for an entire planet of virtual pets. There are still plenty of Tamagotchi devices that have you focusing on raising just a single digital character, but the new Tamagotchi Paradise puts you in charge of a planet full of needy dependents.
Ethical Supply Chain Program: Getting Ahead of Emerging Regulations. The licensing industry is entering a new era of accountability, driven by global regulatory developments focusing on ensuring ethical and sustainable supply chains.
Oh Baby! ImCraig Drops Baby Party on Kickstarter. Players have three babies to drop, flip, and launch onto reversible tile cards based on unique prompts given by challenge cards. The club grows as players flip the game cards over and are able to arrange them to build the club however they’d like.
Diamond Will No Longer Distribute Marvel Comics. Penguin Random House Publisher Services has told its customers that it will no longer distribute comics through Diamond as a sub-distributor, and provided a schedule for the transition.
History and Nostalgia
15 Classic Toys That Started as Military Tech. Many of the playthings that have brought joy to generations of children have surprising origins in military research and technology. Behind the colorful packaging and playful marketing lies a fascinating history of innovation born from necessity during wartime.
Yakity-Yak: 60 Years of Teeth That Talk Back. here’s something to be said for being easily amused. In the 1940s, toy inventor Eddie Goldfarb saw an ad for a false-teeth holder called a “Tooth Garage” and he started cracking up. In his head, he saw a pair of dentures, chomping and sputtering down the road like a car, and parking on their own.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated May 23rd ***
Vintage Toy Restoration – Batman from Mego. Mego was an early adopter of licensing characters from various entertainment properties. Their success demonstrated the potential of tying toys directly to movies, television, and comics — a strategy that is now widely embraced by the toy industry.
Mars Attacks! Martian Flying Saucer from Trendmasters. Released in 1996 by Trendmasters, the Mars Attacks! Martian Flying Saucer brought the delight and terror of Tim Burton's science fiction comedy film to toy shelves, offering a tangible piece of the movie's unique and darkly humorous spirit.
This Record-Setting Robot Can Solve a Rubik's Cube Faster Than You Can Blink. Blink and you might miss it: A new robot developed by college students can solve a Rubik’s Cube in 0.103 seconds, setting a new world record.
The Mad Magazine Game from Parker Brothers. In 1979, Parker Brothers partnered with Mad magazine to release a board game with a play pattern that mirrored the publication’s zany storytelling and irreverent humour.
Brick Shop Hot Wheels Sets from Mattel. In an epic collaboration with Hot Wheels, the debut lineup reimagines seven classic cars as buildable models, inviting fans to experience 57 years of Hot Wheels history like never before.
Licensing and Entertainment
Hello Einstein Studios, Gamisodes Partner to Launch Interactive Baby Einstein Playable Episodes. Collaboration transforms edutainment episodes into interactive, gamified learning for young children.
Disney+ picks up CoComelon after Netflix doesn’t renew it. The once-mighty preschool hit will switch streamers in January 2027, but audience drop-off may make it a questionable bet.
Goliath and Hasbro sign multi-year agreement for Mastermind. “At Goliath, we’ve always believed in the power of classic board games to bring families together across generations,” said Jochanan Golad, CEO of Goliath. “Mastermind has been a beloved mainstay for decades, and we’re excited to introduce new ideas to the next generation of codebreakers and codemakers.”
Ravensburger has revealed a new line-up of children’s puzzles reflecting the recently announced addition to the Peppa Pig family, Baby Evie. Fans of the hit pre-school animation will be able to piece together scenes in four new jigsaw products, including ever-popular formats as well as a new 22-piece wooden puzzle.
*** The above posted after May 23rd when tBR circulated ***
Nickelodeon and Spin Master Entertainment’s pre-school powerhouse has a brand-new slate of five original hour-long specials. Each of the animated specials centres on a different pup, with the first featuring jungle rescuer Tracker set to premiere this autumn, followed by a holiday event focusing on construction-savvy Rubble.
The CW has renewed Scrabble for a 30-episode 2nd season and has recruited Craig Ferguson to take over as host. Trivial Pursuit featuring emcee LeVar Burton has also been picked up for 30-episode 2nd season. Both series that are based on the classic board games will return in 2026 and are produced by Hasbro Entertainment alongside Lionsgate Alternative Television, with Mattel Television Studios co-producing Scrabble.
Sesame Street Is Coming to Netflix Get ready for more sunny days, brought to you by the letter “N”. For more than a half a century, Sesame Street has been a beloved cornerstone of children’s media, enchanting young minds and nurturing a love of learning.
Mattel and TriStar Pictures to Develop Whac-A-Mole Hybrid Feature Film. The project will be overseen by Elizabeth Bassin and Steve Spohr for Mattel Films, and by Shary Shirazi and Kelseigh Coombs for TriStar Pictures.
The Miniverse Make It Mini series from MGA Entertainment grows and expands by taking a blast to the past. Consumers and collectors can uncover miniature dinosaurs with MGA’s Miniverse Jurassic World Make It Mini Dinosaurs line.
Lilo & Stitch is about to take the world by storm. Over the past couple of years, Stitch has firmly embedded himself in public consciousness (impressively, until now, without the aid of any new entertainment content).
Mob Entertainment, the force behind indie video game Poppy Playtime, is powering up globally. The company has a new lineup of robust partnerships and licensing deals across various categories. The vast diversity of the brands Mob Entertainment works with will allow fans of all ages a piece of Poppy Playtime.
Hidden Pigeon Company Spreads Its Wings with Expanded Licensing. Hidden Pigeon Company (HPC), the licensing and entertainment venture dedicated to keeping the feathered friend out of the driving seat has signed 22 licensing agreements for its character brands.
MAJOR Adds ‘80s Blockbuster Icons to Big Rubber Guys Line. MAJOR is expanding its Big Rubber Guys collectible line with an action-packed double feature. The upcoming line includes the brand’s first non-wrestling action figures: Rambo’s John Rambo and Kickboxer’s Kurt Sloane.
The man who brought funk to the masses is getting ready to hit the road. With a new album, Album of the Year #1 Funkateer, and a West Coast tour, Bootsy Collins is bringing otherworldly funk to the stage. While fans wait to see the legendary music star in their hometown, they can have the stage at home, with three action figures from Super7.
Ponke and 223 Partner to Bring Solana IP to Shelves Worldwide. Through this collaboration, 223 will serve as Ponke’s global master licensee, leading the charge on manufacturing, distribution, and sub-licensing across key product categories including toys, apparel, accessories, and next-generation phygital collectibles.
Old World Christmas Unwraps Nostalgic Licensing Partnerships. Through a licensing agreement, the company will deliver ornaments from Magic: The Gathering, General Mills, and more. The whimsical and memory-stirring collection of hand-blown glass ornaments will trim holiday trees this year.
Blockbuster Brands: Just Play Unveils Big Deals at Licensing Expo. Now, as one of the top 10 toy companies in the U.S., per Circana, Just Play is looking toward the future, rolling into Licensing Expo with a full slate of new licenses from partners including Universal, Hasbro, Dr. Seuss, and The LEGO Group.
From Frights To Flights: This Year’s Hottest Brands Take Off At Licensing Expo. As kids discover new favorites and reconnect with familiar ones, their demand for immersion grows. Today’s top IPs are expanding beyond traditional toys, making their way into apparel, publishing, and digital spaces.
IMG Licensing Renews Global Agreement with Ubisoft. IMG Licensing renews its global representation agreement with Ubisoft. As the company’s exclusive licensing agency, IMG Licensing will continue building on its successful franchises while driving new partnerships and collaborations.
Celebrating Silly: ‘Yo Gabba Gabba!’ Revives Licensing Program Following Apple TV+ Reboot. The final episode of Yo Gabba Gabba! aired on Nick Jr. on Nov. 12, 2015. Nine years later, the show has returned with a fresh look and title — Yo Gabba Gabbaland! — on Apple TV+.
Santoki Unveils New LEGO Products. Santoki’s collection of botanical products includes a LEGO Combination Lock Diary Set, a LEGO Gift Wrapping Book, and a LEGO Stationery Box Set, all featuring the popular LEGO flowers.
BBC Studios Expands Bluey’s Licensing Portfolio. New partnerships include The Woobles, Pez, Jacmel, and Hometown Food Company in the U.S., Addo Play in the U.K. and Ireland, Danwares in Canada, and Paladone, Horizon, and Danone in Mexico.
Mexican wrestling brand owner Fillip acquires Tycoon Enterprises. The 30-year-old regional licensing agency that reps major kids brands including Disney and Hasbro will now also apply its experience to Fillip's growing sports business.
Gumball stages a comeback. Titled The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball (40 x 11 minutes), season seven of the animated sitcom will roll out later this year on Cartoon Network’s international channels, Hulu (US) and HBO Max (outside the US).
Zag opens an outpost in Japan. Heading up this outpost as COO is Kanji Kazahaya, who previously spent 15 years working at Toei Animation in roles such as director of international operations (licensing properties like Dragonball Z and One Piece), COO and president.
Netflix Doubles Down on Kids Games, Adds Exclusive ‘World of Peppa Pig’ Alongside New Episodes. The Peppa Pig game is Netflix's first big foray into kids and family video games, and its deal with Sesame Workshop lets it do the same thing.
‘Iyanu’ Renewed for Season 2 at Cartoon Network and HBO Max, Alongside Two New Feature Spin-Offs (EXCLUSIVE). Cartoon Network and HBO Max have officially renewed “Iyanu,” the animated fantasy series based on Roye Okupe’s Nigerian graphic novel, for Season 2.
Don’t be surprised Guillermo del Toro says his Frankenstein won’t be a horror movies. Guillermo del Toro recently spoke at the Cannes Film Festival, sharing some details about his upcoming film Frankenstein, set to release on Netflix later this year.
Barbie Mysteries: Beach Detectives to premiere on Netflix. From Mattel Television Studios, Barbie “Malibu” Roberts and Barbie “Brooklyn” Roberts return as Beach Detectives with a new mystery and five original songs.
Toikido appoints Eolo as Global Master Toy Partner for Beep Boop. Toikido has announced that Eolo Toys has been appointed as the global master toy partner for Beep Boop, its upcoming animated IP launching later this year.
Monster High joins Playmobil following global licensing agreement with Mattel. The partnership will bring Monster High, one of the most successful and beloved kids’ properties of all time, into the world of Playmobil, reimagined in the brand’s signature style.
Dora the Explorer Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Licensed Products. Dora the Explorer is celebrating 25 years of being a hit bilingual children’s show and franchise, and Paramount’s Consumer Products is capitalizing on its success with licensing deals with a wide variety of large brands.
PlayMonster Partners Up on Distribution Deal with Story Time Learning. The deal makes PlayMonster the exclusive distributor for Story Time Learning’s products through 2027 in the U.S. and across the globe.
Visional Pop Launches with YoBoHo Acquisition. Visional Pop, a new U.S.-based entertainment company focused on developing creator-led animated intellectual property, launches and announces its first major move: acquiring YoBoHo, a leading kids’ media company based in Mumbai.
TeeTurtle Kicks off Pride Month with Teletubbies Reversible Plush. This whimsical line perfectly combines nostalgia with the show’s timeless message of joy and acceptance. The line will launch June 1, but families can start the celebration early; the plush is available for preorder.
Line Friends Joins Ketnipz to Grow Global IP Expansion. With an already established strong fanbase in Europe and the U.S., Ketnipz brings a unique audience that, combined with Line Friends’ global reach, strengthens both parties’ influence in the international IP landscape.
‘Winx Club’ and Spaceport Bring Fairy Magic to Roblox. Titled The Winx Club Official Game, the video game comes Roblox later this year. The game takes inspiration from the CGI-animated reboot of Winx Club, which streams on Netflix this fall.
Care Bears Join Squishmallows Squad. Through a fresh co-branded collaboration between Jazwares and Cloudco Entertainment, the residents of Care-A-Lot will bring their Care Bear stare to FigBands, BLDR, Squishmallows, BumBumz, HugMees, and more Jazwares brands.
Peanuts and Wicked take home Licensing International Excellence Awards. Peanuts, LEGO and a handful of blockbuster film extensions were some of the biggest winners at this year’s Licensing International Excellence Awards.
Burger King Mexico Launches “Superman” Movie Kids Meal Toys Collection. The limited-time collection includes seven different figures: Superman, Mr. Terrific, Guy Gardner’s Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Lex Luthor, Superman’s super-dog Krypto, and The Engineer.
Bravda revealls the latest additions to its roster at this year’s Licensing Expo. Grammy Award winner Karol G officially joins the artist merchandising company and will expand her branding with their resources and expertise.
Mexican wrestling icon and priest, Fray Tormenta, is stepping into the ring with Masked Republic to create his first officially licensed products. Aided by Fray Tormenta, Jr., one of many orphans Tormenta mentored and inspired, the company intends to shine a light on the man behind the mask, preserving the luchador’s legacy of love for years to come.
Retailers, start your engines — the licensed automotive and motorsports toy category is shifting into high gear. From the iconic loops and stunts of Hot Wheels to the larger-than-life thrills of Monster Jam, the latest product lines are revved up with real-world branding and high-speed storytelling.
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People of Play
Hasbro CEO’s Good News: Christmas ‘Is Going to Happen’. Toymaker Hasbro will be able to navigate tariffs relatively smoothly, said chief executive Chris Cocks. “I think the important thing on tariffs is Christmas is going to happen,” Cocks said during The Wall Street Journal's Future of Everything event in New York. “The North Pole has most favored nation trading status still,” he joked.
Powering Innovation: How Make48's Advisory Board Fuels Future Success. Make48 is an incredible force for innovation, bringing together makers, engineers, and entrepreneurs in a high-energy, 48-hour invention competition. But behind the whirring tools and rapid prototyping lies a strategic layer of guidance: the Make48 Advisory Board.
Hasbro Chief Marketing Officer Jason Bunge joined Seth Matlins on his Forbes podcast, “The CEO’s Guide to Marketing.” Click below to listen to an honest and super insightful conversation about building marketing capabilities in a 104-year-old-company, the different strategic roles Marketing plays across different parts of the business, and the possibilities that can live within constraints.
Houston Toy Museum will welcome toy-industry veteran Tim Walsh this month for its ToyTalk series. Walsh serves on the National Toy Hall of Fame selection committee and is a regular expert on History Channel’s The Toys That Built America. As a designer, he created hit games such as Mad Gab, Blurt!, and Tri-Bond. Author of The Playmakers: Amazing Origins of Timeless Toys and Wham-O Super-Book...
Transcending mere audio experiences, Bop It might just be the 90s’ most nostalgic song. The famous Bop It! Pull It! Twist It! beat isn’t only catchy; it brings back fond memories, making people smile as they look back on their childhood years. According to Dan Klitsner, the phenomenon’s inventor, it is Bop It’s unique physical link to childhood....
Chris Byrne, The Playground Podcast - Sue Warfield of ASTRA. Chris talks to Sue about theiir shared perspectives n play and its role in child development, and the necessity of play in building helathy children.
Sofia Dumery, MID ’98, head of design at toy company Melissa & Doug, discusses her unique path, making a space for yourself in design, and mentoring a young Pratt alum.
Inside of the West Paw factory off Frontage Road in Bozeman, CEO and founder Spencer Williams greets each employee by name as he walks by. Williams points out each machine in the factory and offers insight into the manufacturing processes. One such device is an employee-directed injection-molding machine that was forming the “Toppl” toy — a round, multi-use enrichment toy for dogs.
Can a toy make you a billionaire overnight? Meet the Chinese CEO who made $1.6 billion in a day thanks to a viral doll. What do a gremlin-faced doll, Blackpink’s Lisa, and a near-riot in a London toy store have in common? The answer lies in one mischievous word: Labubu.
Margot Robbie Kept This Item from Barbie: ‘They Were Quite Expensive, Actually’. The actress gave a behind-the-scenes tour of her office and it contains furniture from the Mattel CEO's office
*** the above posted after tBR circulated May 23rd ***
He took the title for “Best Pitch” at Toy and Game Fair’s Young Inventor Challenge. For his one-of-a-kind game! Kidpreneur, Elliot Anderson joins WGN with a look at “Aliens vs Cows”.
Roblox hires its first-ever head of parental advocacy. Elizabeth Milovidov's remit is all about building programs to make parents more comfortable with Roblox—and attracting more families to the platform in the long term.
Meet the boy behind Bat Cat – young cancer patient’s toy design wins national competition. Children like Spencer were invited to draw and enter a picture of their dream best friend, for the chance to see their creation brought to life as a cuddly toy made by leading sensory soft toy producer Warmies®.
Companies and Brands
Everybody’s Mad About Uno. The card-shedding game is more popular than ever among adults, but they can’t agree on the rules. When a fight breaks out between a couple at one of his New York board game cafes, Greg May can guess the likely culprit without even looking up: Uno.
More than 50 years after its debut, the card-shedding game is now more popular than ever, fueled by savvy marketing, nostalgia and viral stunts.
*** The above posted after tBR circulated May 23rd ***
‘Lilo & Stitch’: How a Fuzzy Blue Alien Became a Disney Cash Cow. Step aside, Moana, Elsa and Simba. In recent years, Stitch has quietly become one of Disney’s most popular — and most merchandised — characters.
Peppa Pig’s new baby sister: could Evie Pig become a billion dollar brand? Her birth has been welcomed by everyone from fashion magazines to the TV show Good Morning Britain. Here’s why everyone is making such a big deal of it ...
Uno plays into game night trend with themed social clubs. To kick off the campaign, the Mattel-owned brand plans on decking out a Las Vegas suite in themed decor.
Relatable announced a strategic shift in its international distribution business. The company has entered into new partnerships with leading distributors in the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and New Zealand to expand its global reach and accelerate growth in key markets.
Just three weeks after its last expansion, another batch of beasts is invading Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket (TCG Pocket). Launching May 29, the Extradimensional Crisis Booster Pack rounds out last month’s Pokémon Sun and Moon-inspired set, officially introducing Ultra Beasts to the mobile game. Trainers can catch more than 100 new Pokémon from the Aola region...
Konami is establishing a new branch of the company starting in June, set to focus entirely on the iconic studio's lineup of arcade games. Konami Arcade Games will split from Konami Amusement, which will shift its focus solely on pachinko games, due to the "changing environment" in the arcade market.
Nintendo Opens New Retail Location in San Francisco. Nintendo of America has just opened its first official store on the West Coast and its second location in the U.S., Nintendo San Francisco. The two-story store is home to a wide array of Nintendo-licensed games and merchandise.
Build-A-Bear’s New Collection Is Ripe with Fruity Cuties. Freshly-squeezed fun is in season at Build-A-Bear Workshop! This summer, kids can create a whole bushel of besties with the new Fruit Stand Collection.
BEYBLADE X North American Tournaments In Partnership With Walmart Kicks Off This Summer. ADK Emotions NY Inc. and T-Licensing Inc. announced that the BEYBLADE X World Championship is spinning into North American Walmart stores starting in June through the summer.
Mattel Unites its Iconic Brands for First Time Ever in a Mobile Game with ‘Mattel Match: Toybox Unlocked’in Partnership with Uken Games. Embark on a Mobile Puzzle Adventure Featuring Fan-Favorites Barbie, Hot Wheels, UNO, and More.
MGA Entertainment Launches Wonder Factory– The Game-Changing Dough and Sand that Never Dry Out!. This exciting new creative play line is designed to spark creativity and imaginative play through a variety of dough and sand products that never dry out.
Kid Kreations supports Blue Smile as charity partner for Heartfuls. Ahead of the launch of its Heartfuls doll range, Kid Kreations has confirmed its support for Blue Smile, a children’s mental health charity providing arts-based therapy and support in schools across Cambridgeshire.
Basic Fun UK! launches new B2B ordering system. Basic Fun UK! has announced the launch of its brand-new B2B eCommerce ordering system, which is now live and available to all the company’s retail partners.
Simba Smoby UK returns to MCM Comic Con. Simba Smoby UK is to return to MCM Comic Con this month with host of fan-favourite pop culture brands, including Disney’s Lilo & Stitch.
The Entertainer to open its first Generation 5 store in Bluewater. The new 3,000 sq. ft space, is set to open in Bluewater shopping centre, from 9am on Saturday 24th May, replacing the retailer’s current, smaller, store from which it has traded since 2011.
Super7 Lays Off Employees, to Shrink. The 145% tariffs initially announced stopped all new products from leaving the factory, and required payment of sky-high import taxes on products that were on their way to the U.S. when tariffs were announced.
Mattel announces some buzzy deals at Licensing Expo. While toy companies continue to formulate new game plans in a market landscape brimming with tariff-fueled uncertainty, Mattel doesn’t seem to be slowing its roll on a broader business strategy rejig.
Renegade Game Studios boosts European distribution amid US tariffs uncertainty with new Saga Alliance, HEO tie-ups. US board game publisher Renegade Game Studios has expanded its distribution in Europe by teaming up with Saga Alliance and HEO, amid ongoing volatility due to tariffs on imports.
Pickle Everything Games Gets Set to Ship G’Nuzzle. G’Nuzzle (MSRP $19.99 for 2-4 players ages 7+) is the clever new product creation from the Pickle Everything Game guys that combines the best of both worlds: puzzles and games.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
From fantastical feats to retro classics, gamers can play their roles with new titles coming to Nintendo. This new array of video games showcases titles that are available now and for preorder.
Nex Playground has a vast catalogue of kid-friendly video games, but its latest launch is turning up the heat. As How to Train Your Dragon soars towards theaters, Nex is teaming up with Universal Products & Experiences for fiery fun inspired by the live-action reimagining.
Dungeons of Hinterberg publisher Curve Games acquired by Nazara Technologies. Curve Games former parent company Catalis Group confirmed the deal in a post on Linkedin. The value of the transaction wasn't disclosed.
What's driving growth in the Chinese video game industry?. Online free-to-play titles, such as Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves, have millions of players around the world, while others like Etheria: Restart gear up for their full release.
Leaker claims Injustice 3 is in development. A prominent MultiVersus leaker has teased that Injustice 3 is in development following the successful launch of Mortal Kombat 1. WB Games made a costly mistake with MultiVersus, so it seems the company is playing it safe and sticking with a tried and tested formula.
Nintendo is now using Samsung to make Switch 2 chips to ramp up production. Bloomberg is reporting this morning that Nintendo has turned to Korean firm Samsung to help make customized chips or processors designed by Nvidia for the Nintendo Switch 2 using its 8-nanometer node.
Warner Bros. Games Announces DC Worlds Collide. Warner Bros. Games today announced DC Worlds Collide, a new free-to-play squad-based role-playing game for mobile devices, where players can collect, upgrade and unleash teams of their favorite Super Heroes and Super-Villains in dynamic PvP and PvE battles.
Fortnite is finally back on US iPhones. Fortnite is once again available on the iOS App Store in the US, according to Epic Games. You can get it from the App Store here. Epic says it has returned to the Epic Games Store and AltStore as well.
Shigeru Miyamoto knows you'll love SUPER NINTENDO WORLD #Shorts. Nintendo legend and Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto was spotted throughout SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe theme park.
Nintendo explains why it’s not called Mario Kart 9. Nintendo’s latest entry in its “ask the developer” interview series has some fun new details about the Switch 2 launch title Mario Kart World. Among the many things discussed is an explanation for why the game isn’t called Mario Kart 9.
As the game industry cuts back, accessibility is feeling the impact. Since 2020, accessibility in games had become a mainstream discussion, bolstered by high-profile releases like The Last of Us Part II, and it appeared things could only get better.
Report: Playtika-owned studio Wooga has laid off 50 people. According to PocketGamer.biz, the news comes just as the developer moved into a new Berlin office. Wooga also canceled Claire‛s Chronicles: Solitaire, which had a soft launch in October 2024.
Avowed game director joins Netflix Games developer Night School Studio. Avowed game director Carrie Patel has departed Microsoft-owned Obsidian Entertainment to join Netflix Games. In a post on Linkedin, Patel confirmed she has joined Netflix Games subsidiary Night School Studio as a game director.
Embracer is spinning off Coffee Stain Group and rebranding its remaining business. The move comes after the Swedish conglomerate explained it would be splitting its business into three standalone entities.
Borderlands 4 could potentially cost $80. Nintendo fans were fairly pleased to hear that Borderlands 4 will be making its way to Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 platform. However, one thing that wasn’t mentioned is pricing.
SEGA releases new Shinobi footage. Today, SEGA released a new video for their upcoming 2D action platformer SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance, showcasing the game’s Neo City stage, and giving fans another peek into one of the many visually stunning hand-drawn worlds created by the team at Lizardcube.
Ubisoft Milan hiring for big budget Rayman brand game. The mainline Rayman series has been one of the most mismanaged franchises at Ubisoft but hope is on the horizon as the company continues to expand the development team for their big budget Rayman title.
Miyamoto discusses new Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong designs. Read an interview with legendary video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto ahead of the launch of Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida.
Mario Kart Tour could get new driver and 4 new karts to tie in with Mario Kart World. Nintendo has previously used its mobile titles to promote new software as was the case with Super Mario Run promoting Super Mario Wonder and Mario & Luigi Brothership.
Naughty Dog has another new game in the works. While we know Naughty Dog is currently developing its next big single-player adventure Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, studio head Neil Druckmann casually mentioned Tuesday that the studio concurrently has another game in the works.
Highlighted Press Releases
VISITING ASTRA? SAY HELLO TO HONEYSTICKS AT BOOTH 110!
Planet-Conscious, Kid-Safe Products That Spark Creativity– Straight From New Zealand. Auckland, New Zealand (May 27, 2025) – Early creativity just got a whole lot safer – and more sustainable! Honeysticks®, the creative play brand from New Zealand, is exhibiting at Booth 110 at ASTRA Marketplace in San Antonio – showcasing its full range of non-toxic, planet-conscious crayons, paints, and bath-time products designed especially for little creators.
PYE GAMES DEBUTS AT ASTRA MARKETPLACE WITH HUNDREDS OF TARIFF-FREE 3D PRINTED PRODUCTS MADE IN USA
Family-owned Idaho Business is Biggest 3D Toy Printer in USA and is the Solution to Tariff Chaos Confronting Astra Retailers. PYE Games, founded in 2019 by Paul and Kristi Young, has grown to become the biggest 3D printer of playthings and collectibles for kids and kidults with over 500 sophisticated professional grade printers running 24/7 in the tiny rural town of Buhl, ID, with a population of fewer than 4,500 residents. Bending your mind around that? Come on over to their PYE 3D Booth 103 at the Astra Marketplace next week in San Antonio, TX.
*** The above posted after TBR circulated May 23rd ***
BUILD THEN PLAY, OR BUILD AND DISPLAY, WISE BLOCK FROM ALPHA TOYS COVERS ALL PLAY PREFERENCES!
Whether you crave an exciting action element to your brick building experience, or just love to build and admire your handiwork, Wise Block has something for you! Fontana, CA (May 16, 2025) – There’s just something about brick construction toys that excites kiddos like nothing else! The intricate and involved building process, the wave of satisfaction upon completion of the set, or the rush of imaginative discovery while disregarding the instructions, this style of toy has something for everyone.
Safety and Counterfeiting
OPINION: Proceed with caution. The fact that kids have migrated from linear to connected TV is no longer the headline—streaming is now the norm for Gen Alpha. What is news is that the enforcement of digital privacy laws is catching up with young families’ new consumption behaviors.
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Thousands Of Toy Elephants Will Parachute Down From The Sky In NYC This Week. NYC's beloved Dumbo Drop will return once again, raining down thousands of toy elephants over Washington Street!
*** The above posted after TBR circulated May 23rd ***
Nominations are Now Open for 2025 Toy & Game International Excellence Awards Lifetime Achievement Honor. Nominations are now open for the prestigious Lifetime Achievement honor at the 2025 Toy & Game International Excellence (TAGIE) Awards, hosted annually by People of Play™ (POP).
Toy Association’s NYC Office is Available for Member Use. The Toy Association™ offers space for member companies or individuals in need of conference rooms or private offices while visiting New York City, available by reservation and based on availability.
Astra is so proud to publish this year’s curated list of play products chosen by Certified Play Experts. The nominees cover a wide array of play needs with finalists in 19 categories. A huge thank you to all of you who nominated this year. There were over 500 products for the Play Awards Committee to review. As usual, committee members took their responsibility seriously while also enjoying the play process!
Toy Association Update: The Toy Building Set for August Grand Opening. After an energizing return to Toy Fair, the toy industry is riding a wave of momentum, and we’re building on that energy in a big way.
Wall Members’ Walk raises vital funds for The Fence Club. A total of eleven members and toy trade stalwarts walked almost 25km, crossing 16 London bridges in the process, to raise money for the Fence Club charity.
The ABCs of EPR: Upcoming Webinar Breaks Down Key Compliance Requirements. An upcoming Toy Association webinar will cover a comprehensive overview of state legislative activity, including what to expect as programs roll out in the months ahead and how to start preparing now.
Spielwarenmesse eG is joining forces with German toy industry partners to celebrate the inaugural International Day of Play June 11 with a variety of public events in the heart of Nuremberg, Germany. As one of the most influential organizations in the toy trade show space,
Mattel & COFACE Families Europe to Host Webinar on International Day of Play. The webinar will explore how play — recognized as a right under Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child — can help future generations of kids and families rebuild connections and restore happiness.
Flip 7, Bomb Busters, Krakel Orakel to battle it out for this year’s Spiel des Jahres award. Press your luck card game Flip 7 is up for the main Spiel des Jahres prize alongside collaborative bomb disposal game Bomb Busters and Krakel Orakel, described as a co-operative drawing game for people who can’t draw.
Registration is live for Autumn Fair 2025. Registration is now officially live for Autumn Fair 2025. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 7th–10th September, the show caters to buyers preparing for the all-important golden quarter of retail.
Belvoir Toy Fair 2025: A must-visit for collectors and enthusiasts. Scheduled to take place on 28th May 2025, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to explore an extensive selection of rare and desirable items, perfect for adding to your collection or discovering unique gifts for the holiday season.
App-assisted, real-time board game Dot Com wins this year’s Cardboard Edison Award, which celebrates the best in unpublished designs. Dot Com has been crowned the winner of this year’s Cardboard Edison Award for unpublished board game designs.
BotCon ’25 Rolls Back Into Fort Wayne This Father’s Day Weekend June 12–15, 2025 | Grand Wayne Convention Center. BotCon, the original Transformers fan convention, returns to Fort Wayne, Indiana, bringing fans to the Grand Wayne Convention Center from June 12–15, 2025.
Toymaster celebrates with disco bunnies and Golden Teddies. After a busy first day, Toymaster members enjoyed Disco Night at the Majestic last night, and applauded the presentation of two prestigious Golden Teddies from the BTHA.
Booghe Toys nominated for two prestigious awards. Birmingham’s Booghe Toys, which opened in 2024, has been nominated for a Global Elite Award and a Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Award, to the delight of Krishna Yadlapalli.
Toymaster Awards Night celebrations take place. At Wednesday’s Awards Night, Toymaster honoured both suppliers and retailers for their hard work and dedication to the success of the toy sector.
Ty’s Beanie Bouncers Take Over the Las Vegas Sphere. From May 19 to May 25, Ty’s Beanie Bouncers is taking over the Sphere with a special animated show featuring licensed characters from the product line, including Paw Patrol, Bluey, Spider-Man, and more.
2025 Young Game Designers: ‘Game Concept’ Finalists. The 2025 Young BAFTA Game Concept Award finalists have been revealed. So, get ready to take a peek and be inspired.
2025 'Spiel Des Jahres' Nominees Announced. The nominees for the 2025 Spiel des Jahres, the German "Game of the Year," were announced, along with the nominations for the Kennerspiel des Jahres and Kinderspiel des Jahres awards, on May 20, 2025.
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
Robin Muller - (Goliath shared the following): We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of our dear friend and colleague, Robin Muller, following a fatal accident. Robin had been with Goliath for over a decade and had grown into the role of Sales Manager Benelux. He was a deeply loved colleague, known for his passion, speed, and big heart. He was only 33 years old and leaves behind his wife, Lieke, and their one-year-old son, Loek.
Judy Blau in NY times this morning. Judy was a lovely person and the article captures her spirit. I was honored to get to know her when she was the recipient of our 2017 TAGIE Lifetime Achievement Award and we kept in touch. Two researchers from the NY Times reached out to me for help on the article, including photos. Here is our article about Judy, written by Ruth Green Synowic that we ran in 2017.
David McLeod: Longtime Disney Syndication Executive Was 62, a syndication and content sales executive whose career at Disney spanned 35 years including 25 running the studio’s Chicago syndication office, died May 4 in Downers Grove, Illinois, following complications from an undiagnosed illness. He was 62.
Funeral details announced for Geoff Smith. Geoff Smith was a well-known and cherished figure in the toy industry whose career spanned an impressive 50 years. As a former director of A.B.Gee, Geoff played a central role in shaping one of the UK’s most enduring toy companies.
Geoff Smith. It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Geoff Smith, a well-known and cherished figure in the toy industry whose career spanned an impressive 50 years. As a former director of A.B.Gee, Geoff played a central role in shaping one of the UK’s most enduring toy companies.
George Wendt, the Beer-Loving Norm on ‘Cheers,’ Dies at 77. George Wendt, who bellied up to the bar to portray the beer-quaffing everyman Norm Peterson for all 11 seasons of the fabled NBC sitcom Cheers, has died.
Steve Pepoon, who received an Emmy for writing an episode of The Simpsons as a freelancer, worked on other TV comedies like It’s Garry Shandling’s Show, ALF and Roseanne and co-created The Wild Thornberrys, has died. He was 68.
JUDITH BLAU - Renaissance woman, artist, author and illustrator: "The Bagel Baker of Mulliner Lane," toy designer: Baby All Gone, environmental educator: Treetures. A woman of unending creativity, light, and magic; she will be missed. Judy was honored with a TAGIE Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. Here is her story.
Mike Wood, founder of Leapfrog and Smarty Ants to Achieve 3000. After selling his businesses, Mike went back to Oakland, CA schools to teach children how to read, three or four days a week. His passion and dedication to helping kids read is a great loss for our community. Read tributes from colleagues here.
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Toy Trade Monthly Issues
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Still stuffed (just less stuffed than last week) … it’s the Friday Blog!
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Lego unveils retro-inspired Lego Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine Set
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The Entertainer to open its first Generation 5 store in Bluewater
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Monster High joins Playmobil following global licensing agreement with Mattel
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Viral YouTube sensation Skibidi Toilet set to expand global footprint
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Toikido appoints Eolo as Global Master Toy Partner for Beep Boop
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Licensing International unveils 2025 Excellence Awards winners
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- Wizards of the Coast Launches Standard Showdown for 'Magic: The Gathering - Universes Beyond' Sets
- WizKids Offers Refunds for Recent 'D&D Icons of the Realms' Product
- First of Gen Con Heist Crew Sentenced
- WizKids Unveils Three New 'Pathfinder Battles' Boxed Sets
- 2025 'Spiel des Jahres' Nominees Announced
- Rolling for Initiative -- On the Diamond Sale, More on the GW Lawsuit and Congratulations Mike Webb
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Video of the Week!
Zootopia 2 | Teaser Trailer
Walt Disney Animation Studios has unveiled the first teaser trailer for Zootopia 2, the long-anticipated sequel to the studio’s Best Animated Feature Oscar winner from 2016, which opens in theaters on November 26.
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Either post your job openings yourself (so easy!) to our POP Classifieds or send them to us to post for you. We all have colleagues looking now that would benefit.
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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.
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
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Do you have news to share? Send me a note! mcouzin@toyassociation.org
