Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
The TAGIEs! Only one week left to vote for your favorite innovator! VOTE HERE!
We've brought back our Play in Education (PIE) Conference. Thank you to Joyce Hemphill for making it happen! You'll enjoy her interview below which reminded me how I met Joyce. She watched a Cupcake Wars episode which featured the TAGIE Awards! The PIE Conference is part of the Chicago Toy & Game Fair and educators are one of our Fair attendee pillars. Jamie Gallagher, who many of you know, will be one of our keynote speakers!
Register for November's POP Week!
Connect, pitch and learn at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference
Passionate about play in education? Attend the PIE Conference.
Celebrate innovative colleagues at the TAGIEs
Encourage a creative kid to enter the Young Inventor Challenge
Sign up as a 19th annual Young Inventor Challenge® judge? Click here!
Kick off the holidays! Focus group in the wild! Meet consumers, influencers (46+), media and trade in your Chicago Toy & Game Fair booth
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
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"I go to work 6 days a week and magic happens! On day 7 I read the Bloom Report." 😁 - Rick Derr, Learning Express
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"Tell me you're in the toy industry without telling me you're in the toy industry... Friday Morning = a cup-a-Joe and the Bloom Report!" -Tim Walsh The Playmakers
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"I don't know anyone in the industry that doesn't read the Bloom Report." -Ken Lewis, President, 4Kidz, Inc.
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"I am a long-time reader and champion of the Bloom Report. The quantity of quality articles on so many different aspects of our industry is unmatched and I regularly share and discuss them with my management team as an important business tool." - Jim Engle, President & Founder, Little Kids Inc.
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Person of the Week: Joyce Hemphill
Cupcakes and Play ... A Winning Combination
Hi Joyce! Can you share with our readers what is your connection to play?
I have always been a play person. I honestly cannot name a time when I did not know or feel the importance of play and leisure activities in one’s life. Is this due to nature? Nurture? Most likely both. Growing up I observed my parents’ enjoyment in getting together with friends to play cards, go bowling, and volunteer. My mother’s creative outlet was playing the piano, embroidering and crocheting. My father found pleasure and relaxation in gardening, fishing, and making things out of wood (e.g. shelves, toys, duck decoys).
I also picked up on the importance of playful activities when my father would reflect on his time spent in a German POW camp during WWII. At night when they were locked in the barracks they would play cards, tell stories, and sing. However, this changed when they were evacuated and forced to march westward; there was no card playing, no storytelling, and no singing. In camp, they got some food, and a shelter to sleep in. On the march, they had none of that. Every ounce of psychological and physical energy they had went to their survival.
Person of the Week - Tim Walsh - WTFF?
We've Got Cooties! The History of the Name and the Games
It's a parasite AND a plaything, a playground game and a paper origami fortune teller. And as if all that weren't enough, it's the first ever plastic game! This is the Cootie Edition of Where's the Fun from?
(Note from Mary: This is Tim's latest video. We feature Tim's WTTF videos often and there is a reason. Tim obviously is passionate about our industry, knows more about it than anyone I know and can present people and plaything in the most entertaining way!)
Podcast of the Week - The Toy Coach's Azhelle Wade
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Guessing some of you have played pool with a golf club.
Memorable Quotes: "That thing that gives you butterflies, that lights you up. That world you see when you close your eyes. Chase that.” – EDDIE PINERO
Toy Industry Word of Day: If you can think of a toy/game industry word not in our POPDictionary, add it and we will connect it to you POP profile, feature it here in an upcoming week and on POP's homepage!
Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary
Happiest of Birthdays to colleagues celebrating birthdays this week!
Financial and Legal
Target plans to reduce its regular prices on over 2,000 items across its owned and national brand assortment this holiday season, the company said Tuesday. The price cuts are on holiday gifts, toys, board games, health and beauty products, snacks, beverages and grocery items. The company previously announced a round of price cuts on 5,000 items in May. Target said Tuesday it surpassed that goal by lowering...
*** the above posted after tBR circulated on October 19th ***
Thunderbird Entertainment’s future is in its own hands, now that its board of directors is no longer actively seeking a sale of the company. That key message was delivered earlier this week at the presentation of the company’s year-end financial results. “After a thorough strategic review process…the board determined that remaining a standalone public company and executing on our strategic business plan...
Cra-Z-Art acquires Top Secret Toys. Cra-Z-Art, a leading US manufacturer and innovator in the toy, activity, art and school supply industries, has announced the acquisition of Top Secret Toys. Cra-Z-Art, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, significantly expands its footprint in both domestic and international markets. Founded in 2015 in Chicago, Top Secret Toys has established itself as a trusted name...
Japanese film producer/distributor Toho has acquired GKIDS, a New York- and LA-based company that specializes in bringing anime content into the North American market. GKIDS will become a wholly owned subsidiary of LA-based Toho International, although its founder/CEO Eric Beckman and president Dave Jesteadt will stay on in their current roles.
Not done yet on the acquisition and investment front, Superprod has taken a majority ownership position in Philippe Alessandri’s production/distribution outfit Watch Next Media. Watch Next has studios in France and Italy, and is best known for recent animated series such as Hello Kitty: Super Style!, Nate is Late and Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese (pictured), although it also has a fair number of older-skewing...
Microsoft settles antitrust lawsuit contesting Activision Blizzard acquisition. Microsoft has settled a lawsuit against last year's $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard brought forth by Call of Duty players. In late 2022, the 10 players (who lived in California, New Mexico, and New Jersey) filed a private consumer lawsuit against the Xbox maker.
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Financial Reporting
Mattel believes sales will be flat to slightly down this year. Reported operating income was $488 million, an improvement of $14 million. Adjusted operating income was $504 million, a decrease of $2 million. Reported earnings per share were $1.09, an improvement versus $0.41 per share. Mattel says its adjusted EBITDA of $584 million is an improvement of $5 million
Netflix reported quarterly revenues of US$9.8 billion—a 15% year-over-year increase. Its total number of subscribers reached 282.72 million, which is up significantly by 5.1 million from Q2, but just a little behind the gains of Q3 2023 (when it added around 8.8 million).
*** The above posted after tBR circulated October 18th ***
The latest accounts filed by Smyths Toys UK Ltd shows that operating profits increased by 4% to £20.3m. The directors said that revenues increased by £28m, from £910.7m to £938.7m, due to an increase in footfall in the stores and the addition of two new stores.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
Los Angeles Film and TV Production Approaches Historically Low Levels. Amid the decline, some industry observers are calling for an expansion of the California film and TV tax credit program to compete with other countries and states beefing up their incentives to lure Hollywood dollars.
Nearly half of US consumers plan to shop in person this holiday season. Experian's Holiday Spending Trends and Insights study also finds that Millennials intend to spend more than they did in 2023, with a preference for bargain-hunting at discount retailers.
*** The above was posted after tBR circulated on October 18th ***
NRF: Holiday retail spending set for modest growth in 2024. ‘Tis the season to sell some toys!
HalloweenCostumes.com Dress-Up Ideas & Halloween Survey results.
Dollar General to launch Toys Holiday Sales Guide.
Smyths reveals its Hero Toys for Christmas 2024
The Most Popular Halloween Candy
SEPTEMBER 2024 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN - TOP 20 AUTHOR, MANGA, SUPERHERO GRAPHIC NOVELS
The Toy Insider reveals Top Holiday Toy Trends of 2024.
BargainMax.co.uk reveals its Top Toys for Christmas.
A.B.Gee of Ripley unveils 2024 Christmas Buyers Guide.
The only gift guide for a 3-year-old you’ll ever need.
The only gift guide for a 4-year-old you’ll ever need.
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58 gifts that will entertain your 7-year-old seven days a week.
Stories, Comments, and Advice
Sony and Disney Marketing Execs on Collaborating With Influencers and Leaning Into TikTok’s Algorithm. Variety and TikTok held the third annual Variety Culture Catalysts Dinner on Tuesday evening to celebrate marketers across film and television. The night opened with a warm welcome from Dea Lawrence, Variety’s chief operating and marketing officer, followed by remarks from TikTok’s media and entertainment director Reia Davidson.
John Baulch, Toy World - too good to be true … it’s the Friday Blog! Let’s start with some of the more positive news of the week. The Entertainer has completed its rollout in Tesco stores – the mammoth project has been completed on time (no mean feat considering the scope of the initiative), meaning 861 branches of Tesco across the UK & Ireland now have The Entertainer toy aisles greeting shoppers
Julia Fitzgerald - In today’s Midsize Match Up interview, we are in Boston, and I get to talk with Kristen Standish, CEO of VizSense, an innovative influencer agency that combines operational expertise with data science. Her company transforms the complexity of influencer marketing into streamlined, results-driven campaigns. I can’t wait to hear more.
The attacks On TikTok are about protectionism, not protecting teens. The protectionist attacks on TikTok continue, this time care of thirteen state attorneys general and the District of Columbia. The New York Times reports that the multi-state lawsuit against TikTok is rooted in the accusation that it’s “creating an intentionally addictive app” that is allegedly harming teenagers and children.
New survey data from Rainbow High reveals that toys inspire self-confidence – 61% of parents report kids are more confident with toys based on colors of the rainbow. The top five takeaways include: 63% believe if their kid plays with toys or dolls early in life, they’ll have an easier time fostering new friendships later in life. A whopping 81% of parents confirmed that their child appears happier...
History and Nostalgia
Perquackey from Lakeside. Released by Lakeside in 1956, Perquackey was a fast-paced word-building game that had players race to form as many words as possible within a set time using lettered dice. The game was played with 13 dice: 10 with black letters and three with red letters. The black–lettered dice were referred to as Non-vulnerable cubes, while the red-lettered dice were called Vulnerable cubes.
Familiar Places McDonald’s Playset from Playskool. Released in 1974 from Playskool, the Familiar Places McDonald’s playset let children set up a restaurant in the home and immerse themselves in a world of burgers and fries. The activity toy incorporated many of the exterior and interior elements one would find at a McDonald’s location in the 1970s.
Licensing and Entertainment
‘Phineas and Ferb’ Revival Cast, Teaser Art Revealed for Next Year’s Disney Return. There’s 104 more days of summer vacation on the docket, as the long-awaited return of “Phineas and Ferb” gets closer to reality. Co-creators and exec producers Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh were set to share more information about the upcoming revival during a Thursday panel at New York Comic-Con — including...
*** The above posted after October 18th ***
A Monster High Squid Game Young-Hee Doll has joined The Monster High Skullector series, which reimagines horror icons through the lens of Monster High style. The Monster High brand has teamed up with Netflix’s Squid Game to design the latest addition to the Skullector Series. The sweetly menacing Monster High Squid Game Young-Hee Doll reimagines the iconic robot who sent chills down viewers’ spines during the hit...
Just Play announces marketing plans for new FurReal lines. Under license by Hasbro and new to the Just Play UK portfolio this year, the FurReal brand stampedes into autumn with two standout lines to capture children’s attention and imagination: Peanut the Playful Monkey and Daisy the Yoga Goat.
Live-action ‘View-Master’ movie, based on 3D image toy from Mattel, in the works. Mattel, the toy company behind Barbie and Hot Wheels, is developing a feature film about the stereoscopic image device View-Master. The live-action movie will be developed with Sony Pictures and Escape Artists. View-Master has been around since 1939.
Moose Toys stretching the reach of its mega popular original Brand 'Heroes of Goo Jit Zu' with new animated series. Moose Toys is taking a significant next step in growing and supporting its IP brands beyond the toy aisle, announcing today they entered into an entertainment development deal with creative studio and writing collective Man of Action Entertainment (MOA).
LEGO encourages creativity with COLORSxSTUDIOS and Jacob Collier. The brand collaboration celebrates the need for rest and creativity. The LEGO Group has partnered with musician Jacob Collier and COLORSxSTUDIOS (COLORS) in an effort to encourage adults to unwind. The partnership follows a global research study that found that 9 in 10 adults believe rest and relaxation are crucial to finding happiness.
Vancouver’s Wind Sun Sky Entertainment (Future Chicken Today Show) has partnered with Toronto-based talent agency Viral Nation to co-develop and co-produce a pair of series based on YouTuber Like Nastya, along with 2B Productions in the US. Positioning the 10-year-old’s popular brand to reach more than one demo, this collaboration will yield a 2D-animated series for kids ages five to eight, as well as a...
After two years of speculation, Amazon MGM Studios has finally announced that it’s moving forward with a feature film based on World Events Productions’ iconic Voltron franchise. The studio picked up live-action theatrical rights to the IP in 2022, but production details have been kept under wraps until now. Rawson Marshall Thurber (Red Notice, Skyscraper) is confirmed to direct and has also co-written the movie’s...
Canada’s Landslide Entertainment and Arcana Studio have joined forces to adapt the graphic novel Max Velocity as a same-name 2D-animated short series. Published by Arcana, the graphic novel was created, illustrated and written by Graeme Partridge-David. It features a speedy young superhero with autism who ventures out on daring missions with his friends.
Pixel Zoo, Liquid Rock Entertainment join forces for new animated series. Australian animation studio Pixel Zoo, a subsidiary of MGA Entertainment, has teamed up with brand management house Liquid Rock Entertainment and acquired the rights to co-produce a new series, The Secret Explorers. The CGI-animated series will consist of 52 11-minute episodes for kids ages 4-7.
Toikido, Jellyfish Originals, team up for ‘Battalor’. The toy-led property is in development and will be shown to buyers in February 2025. As the hunt for new action brands continues, Toikido is teaming-up with Jellyfish Originals on a new property, Battalor. According to the company,
Crayola Studios and Hallmark reviving Rainbow Brite for new generation with film, TV project. The once-popular kids franchise is being resuscitated by Crayola Studios and Hallmark with grand plans for a feature film and TV series that would likely bring the superhero tot, Starlite the horse and a kaleidoscope of colors to screens big and small.
Mattel unveils official trailer and theme song for Barney’s World. MattelBarney's World has revealed the official trailer and extended theme song music video for Barney’s World, Mattel Television Studio’s all-new animated series premiering today (Monday 14th October) on Max, followed by Cartoon Network on 18th October.
Miniso unveils exclusive Harry Potter Collab at Langham Place pop-up. Lifestyle brand Miniso has unveiled an exclusive Harry Potter collection with over 500 products and a special pop-up in Hong Kong. The officially licensed by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products include blind boxes, plushes, stationery, bags, accessories, and home goods.
L.O.L. Surprise! announces celebrity ambassador Kelsey Parker. MGA Entertainment‘s global toy brand, L.O.L. Surprise! has announced a long-term partnership with celebrity mum Kelsey Parker. The exclusive five-month collaboration, running from September through to January, is set to increase brand awareness, highlight key product launches and strengthen the brand’s core messaging.
Epic drop for 'Joker: Folie A Deux'; Henry Cavill in 'Voltron'; 'Velma' sent packing; 'Shinobi' headed for silver screen; 'Alien: Romulus' heads to streaming. Showbiz Round-up. Joker: Folie a Deux had an epic drop at the box office in its second weekend, taking in only $7.06 million, an 81% drop from the first weekend, when it ended up with a disappointing $37.6 million, according to Deadline.
Hasbro reveals Transformers X Naruto Shippuden product collab. The worlds of Transformers robots and Naruto collide with the Transformers X Naruto Shippuden mash-up pack! Inspired by the characters from the Naruto Shippuden anime series, this 2-pack features the iconic Kurama and Gamakichichi characters as Transformers robots.
Cloudco Entertainment and WildBrain Studios are bringing together two ’80s mega-brands that have never paired up before. Care Bears and Strawberry Shortcake will unite in a 44-minute animated preschool special with the working title The Care Berry Switch. The companies are co-developing the project, but WildBrain will take the lead on animation production.
People of Play
Azhelle Wade's The Toy Coach Podcast - In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade looks into Richard North's life, sharing how he went from a determined 19-year-old to a multi-award-winning entrepreneur and the founder of Wow! Stuff. You will learn about his career’s turning points, such as being featured in Channel 4's Secret Millionaire TV Show, including the emotional inspirations behind the...
*** The above posted after October 18th when tBR circulated ***
People of Play announces new Advisory Board members. People of Play (POP) is bringing in new professionals from across the toy industry to join the Chicago Toy and Game (ChiTAG) advisory board. As a division of The Toy Association, the group organizes industry events such as POP Week, the POP Platform, and The Bloom Report. In order to continue promoting a network of creativity and connectivity, successful innovators Tara McGrath, Mike Bisogno, and Amy Friedland are joining the ranks of the POP advisory board.
In 2019, I did a photoshoot with the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile 🌭 at ChiTAG. Later that night, my husband Christian won his first TAGIE Award, and I watched him receive it with major pride swelling in my chest. It wasn’t just an award—it was the spark that lit a fire in me, too. 🔥
I remember thinking, One day, I’m going to earn my place here. One day, I’ll have a chance to share the magic of the toy industry in a way that truly makes a difference.
Miraculous Corp appoints Roz Nowicki as global head of Consumer Products. As the global head of Consumer Products for the hit Miraculous franchise, Roz will report to Andy Yeatman, CEO of Miraculous Corp, who made the announcement yesterday. Miraculous Corp is a recently formed joint venture between premier European independent studio Mediawan led by Pierre Antoine Capton, which now operates more than...
Legendary game designer Jordan Weisman's next project is an open world deck-building pirate romance tactical RPG. If you're anything like me, you probably spent long hours of your childhood afternoons playing BattleTech on the kitchen table and listening to the MechWarrior 2 soundtrack on your Discman. No? Just me?
Steve Horvath retires from Asmodee after over 25 years in the games industry. Steve Horvath, Global Head of Publishing at Asmodee Group, has retired as of October 1, 2024. Horvath served as Head of Publishing and later Global Head of Publishing for over six years, starting in 2018. He had spent over 17 years total of his career with Fantasy Flight Games and Asmodee Group.
Sesame Workshop promotes Hallie Ruvin to SVP of Communications & Public Affairs, Aaron Bisman to SVP of Marketing. Hallie Ruvin will oversee the Brand Narrative, Public Affairs, PR, and Events departments as the SVP of Communications and Public Affairs, while Aaron Bisman will oversee the Audience Development, Brand Marketing, Brand Creative, and Marketing Operations departments as SVP of Marketing.
Companies and Brands
Plush where everyone fits in! Los Angeles-based toy company Yoonique LLC today revealed the first two series from its debut plush line Pluzzles, rolling out nationally on retail shelves this November. Pluzzles are a new, innovative, and creative approach to plush – each piece is as loveable and huggable as the next, and connects together with other Pluzzles to form a larger vibrant collection.
Toy company Zuru enters haircare market with new consumer goods venture, Zuru Edge. The brand has launched Monday Haircare, a haircare range that is now available in Clicks stores across South Africa. This marks a milestone for Zuru’s move beyond toys into the world of everyday consumer products, applying the same innovative approach. Glenn Ambrose, country manager at Zuru, explains that Zuru's decision...
*** the above posted October 18th when tBR circulated ***
Attention Kmart Shoppers: It’s Closing Time. As the last full-size Kmart in the continental United States prepares to close, shoppers reminisced about the store that once sold everything, everywhere. When Chrissy Economos and Gloria McCourtney heard that the last full-size Kmart in the mainland United States was closing down, they knew they had to pay their respects, even if the store was more than 1,300 miles away.
Spin Master outlines growth plans for Melissa & Doug. Following Spin Master’s acquisition of Melissa & Doug earlier this year, the company has laid out an exciting and ambitious plan to accelerate growth by fully integrating the Melissa & Doug business into its international commercial operations, and in turn help more parents support their child through ages, stages and individual learning styles.
Funko alum will launch new collectibles company, Thrilljoy at NYCC. The new company is focused on its high-end, exclusive collectibles. The company will bring its wares to booth No. 1023. Thrilljoy is founded by two Funko alums, former CEO Brian Mariotti and former SVP of Licensing and Emerging Brands Dolly Ahluwalia, and Eric Peng Cheng, Owner of Undefeated, and MD Young, owner of MINDstyle International.
Girl Scouts get new STEM makerspace for anything they can dream up. Foothill High School senior Kenna Kashima would love to see herself working in a career of toy design. She said she was inspired by the popular “Barbie” movie that was released last year, and she also admires American Girl dolls. Kashima is currently taking graphic design and art classes.
Taking a Lesson From Barbie, Mattel Builds a More Nimble Supply Chain. The toy maker is shuttering some plants, trimming product lines as it tries to respond more quickly to consumer demand. When “Weird Barbie” became an unexpected breakout hit of the “Barbie” movie last year, Mattel kicked its new supply chain strategy into action. The toy maker accelerated the doll’s design and manufacturing process to tap...
Roblox is assembling its first Teen Council in the hopes of making its platform a more civil and respectful place for 79.5 million daily active users. The company has posted an application form on its site to recruit 15 individuals between the ages of 14 and 17 to participate in a five-month pilot program that will run from March to July 2025.
The Entertainer completes roll-out at over 850 Tesco stores in UK and Ireland. The Entertainer has completed a major roll-out of more than 850 brand-new toy shops within Tesco stores as part of its new partnership, expanding its retail presence in the UK and Republic of Ireland and creating 1200 jobs.
Hot Wheels launches new Challenge Accepted platform. Mattel has announced that Hot Wheels is furthering its mission to ignite the challenger spirit in every child with the creation of Challenge Accepted, a new platform that aims to empower children through play to try, fail, repeat and grow to cultivate a growth mindset. To help inform the new platform, Hot Wheels consulted with Mindset Works...
'My Little Pony' host a 'Festival of Lanterns'. New version of classic abstract strategy game by Christopher Chung. Renegade Game Studios will release My Little Pony: Festival of Lanterns, a new version of a classic abstract strategy game by Christopher Chung, into retail in April 2025. This game features the same mechanics from Lanterns: The Harvest Festival with a MYLP theme.
Radio Flyer utilizes Formlab Fuse 3D Printers in prototype production. In 2022, Radio Flyer added its first 3D printer to its Prototype Shop. Since then, the printers have become an integral part of the design process for the brand’s iconic ride-ons, bicycles, and other active toys.nRadio Flyer’s Prototype Shop uses Formlabs’ Fuse selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printers and large-format stereolithography (SLA) printers...
Holiday Hill Farm’s Spookley the Square Pumpkin is back for October and is here to celebrate a (not so spooky) Spooky Season. Spookley was created back when his creator, Joe Troiano’s son, asked for a story about pumpkins that was not scary, and he is still here to bring delightful Halloween joy to kids today. This year, Holiday Hill Farm will release eight new Spookley Halloween videos featuring the square pumpkin.
Book Pocket Tonies land on shelf. Tonies has announced the launch of Book Pocket Tonies – a new range of unabridged audiobook Tonies perfect for older children, featuring titles and authors loved by 5-10-year-olds. The Book Pocket Tonie collection launches with 20 titles from bestselling authors, including Tom Fletcher, David Walliams, Adam Kay, Enid Blyton, Dav Pilkey and Andrea Beaty...
Capstone Games teams up with Pink Troubadour to bring 'Galileo Galilei' to North American markets. Capstone Games has teamed up with Pink Troubadour to bring Galileo Galilei, a new Eurogame, to North American markets in Q2 2025. In Galileo Galilei, by Tomas Holek, players assume the role of an astronomer looking to discover new heavenly bodies in space.
Games Workshop unveils 'Warhammer 40,000: Kill Team - Starter Set'. Games Workshop unveiled a Warhammer 40,000: Kill Team - Starter Set, an entry level miniatures boxed set, which will hit preorder soon. The new Starter Set comes fresh off the announcement of the Hivestorm launch set that kicked off new edition of the Kill Team rules.
Japanime Games will release 'One Piece: Adventure Island' into U.S. retail. Japanime Games will release One Piece: Adventure Island, a new card and dice game by Topi Games, into U.S. retail on January 22, 2025. In this game, players take on the roles of the One Piece pirate crews as they race through the Islands of Grand Line.
Amigo Games reveals a 'Magic Dwarf' coming to U.S. retail. Amigo Games revealed Magic Dwarf, a new cooperative children's card game, that will hit U.S. retail in Q4 2024. In Magic Dwarf, players race sorcerer's apprentices towards the mine to collect crystals from a dwarf named Rupert for their magic wands. However, standing in their way are the witches that need to be avoided at all costs.
Renegade engages in further 'Diplomacy': Announces 'Era of Empire' standalone game. Renegade Game Studios announced Diplomacy: Era of Empire, a standalone board game, for release into retail in September 2025. Diplomacy: Era of Empire places players in the 19th Century, when Asia was mostly controlled by competing empires.
Gamestop becomes an Authorized PSA Dealer. GameStop Corporation has teamed up with Collectors, via their Professional Sports Authenticator division, to become an authorized PSA dealer. This deal brings a whole new dimension to GameStop's retail stores. GameStop recently entered the business of buying and selling high grade TCG and sports cards via some of their U.S. locations.
Bandai rocks the Dragon with a brand new line of Dragon Ball DAIMA toys to celebrate the new Anime. Dragon Ball DAIMA is finally here as the first Dragon Ball anime series since Dragon Ball Super went off the air in 2018. Fan excitement is understandably through the roof. The entire franchise is gearing up to celebrate Dragon Ball – from the Dragon Ball DAIMA anime itself to Sparking! Zero...
Clementoni’s Pen Creator Studio writes itself into top spot. Clementoni is gearing up for a bumper Christmas season after securing the No. 1 slot in the Arts & Crafts category for September with Pen Creator Studio from the Idea! range. Since launching in 2023, Pen Creator Studio has seen progressively strong sales, resulting in a 300% growth year on year.
'Flesh and Blood TCG' introduces a Guardian Hero via new 'Armory Deck Origins' series. Legend Story Studios will release Armory Deck Origins: Jarl Vetreidi, for Flesh and Blood TCG, into retail on November 29, 2024. This is the first Armory Deck that has introduced an entirely new hero to the game.
New 'Warhammer 40,000' 'Combat Patrol' set incoming: Features Blood Angels faction. Games Workshop will release Combat Patrol: Blood Angels, for Warhammer 40,000, into retail. This new and improved Combat Patrol features an assemblage of Blood Angel units that are geared up for close combat. The force is led by a new Blood Angels Captain who is accompanied by 6 elite Sanguinary Guards.
Wage war on the bottom of the ocean in 'Battle for the Deep'. Renegade Game Studios revealed Battle for the Deep, a new game powered by the Axis & Allies game system, which will release in March 2025. This new fantasy game takes the Axis & Allies game system to new depths as it features four factions battling it out on the bottom of the ocean floor.
Next 'Digimon CG' booster set unveiled. Two champions from 'Digimon Liberator' return to the game. Bandai unveiled World Convergence, a new booster set for Digimon CG, which will hit stores on April 25, 2025. The new set brings more Digimon Adventure characters from the anime series to the game as cards.
Devir announces 'The White Castle: Matcha' - new expansion adds geishas. Devir Games announced The White Castle: Matcha, a new board game expansion, which will head to retail in 2025. The White Castle: Matcha expands the core game (see "'The White Castle'") by adding a new board and more actions.
The LEGO Group plans training program in China ahead of new factory opening. LEGO will open a factory in Vietnam in 2025. The LEGO Group announced plans to train hundreds of its Vietnamese factory employees in high-tech production in Jiaxing, China. Employees will learn the skills and knowledge necessary for operating at the company’s new factory in southern Vietnam, which will open next year.
Carrom returns with new management and rebranding. Michigan-based board game company Carrom has returned to the market under new management. Originally developed in Ludington, Michigan, in 1889, the company is known for its unique and sustainable wooden board game boards, which include offerings such as Skittles, Nok Hockey, and a Multi-Game Board that enables players...
PlayMonster UK launches Spirograph Design Competition. PlayMonster UKCompetition has partnered with Teacher’s Pet to launch a Spirograph Design Competition, inviting pupils from the UK’s 20,000 primary schools to create their own autumn themed Spirograph designs. PlayMonster UK is also providing 250 schools with Spirograph kits, plus free educational Spirograph themed resource packs, created in ...
Helsinki-based Gigglebug Entertainment has opened a new studio in the Canary Islands to expand its European pipeline for producing 2D animation. CEO and co-founder Anttu Harlin is heading up the new hub in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, which started operating earlier this month. Joining him is managing director Beth Parker and several Gigglebug artists and staff who have relocated from Helsinki.
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
Don't Nod facing 'potential reorganization' and layoffs amid 2024's first-half struggles. A statement from Game Dev union STJV criticizes Don't Nod's plan that would lay off nearly 70 developers, and suggests a 'large-scale social moment is necessary' for dev protections. French game development union STJV condemned Don't Nod's potential layoffs in a translated statement, calling it "the climax of a series ...
Riot Games lays off staff to 'solve challenges and build for the future'. A spokesperson for Riot Games confirmed 32 employees were let go. Of that number, 27 were active League of Legends developers, and five were from Riot's publishing division. Developer Riot Games is eliminating staff, said co-founder Marc Merill. "This isn’t about reducing headcount to save money," he added.
Baldur's Gate 3 publisher condemns scalpers as Collector's Edition hits $3,000. The $270 box of RPG treats is being resold for over ten times its original price. Scalpers are just capitalism working efficiently. As such, they’re absolute scumbags who ruin fun things, proven yet again with the release of Larian’s physical “Collector’s Edition” of Baldur’s Gate 3.
GTA online players kill 430 million zombies in just 3 days. The revised goal of 800 million zombie deaths looks like it could have been so much bigger. It’s arguable that GTA Online’s Halloween event is proving somewhat popular. The zombie-slaughtering North Yankton Nightmare, added to the game along with GTA V’s opening location, Ludendorff, has been so popular Rockstar had to increase the community ...
This might be the biggest hack in Pokémon history. Gen 10 details, unused Pokémon designs, the Switch 2 codename, and more has seemingly leaked. Pokémon maker Game Freak has suffered a massive data breach that saw employee info as well as tons of details about past games and upcoming sequels stolen from the developer.
Three more Tomb Raider games are getting remasters in 2025, including the most divisive one. Tomb Raider IV, V, and VI will be part of a second updated collection. Following a year after the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection, three additional Lara Croft games are getting updated with visual upgrades and new features. Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered arrives in February 2025 for $30.
New Tetris collection contains over 15 versions of the classic game. Tetris Forever includes versions of Tetris from the Game Boy, Apple II, NES, and more. Digital Eclipse has revealed the full collection of Tetris games included in its upcoming Tetris Forever collection and it’s an impressive list. The game will feature an “interactive timeline” that lets you play through each game in order of release, offering...
Many of 2024's biggest games don't play well (or at all) on Steam Deck. Valve's portable PC struggles to play games like Space Marine 2 and Dragon's Dogma 2. In February 2025, the Steam Deck will turn three years old. And while plenty of games still run like a dream on the portable PC, it’s clear that over time, more and more big new games are pushing this tiny computer to its breaking point.
Mark Zuckerberg says he's probably the best Civilization player in the world. Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook and CEO of parent company Meta, has played a lot of Civilization on PC. In fact, he’s played so much that he claims to be the best player in the world, and would be shocked if anybody else could “beat” him in a match.
Report on Roblox describes it as 'a pedophile hellscape for kids'. The Hindenburg Research investigation also makes claims, refuted by Roblox, that it's lying to investors. Roblox stock fell a whopping nine percent after the publication of a report that claims the software is a “pedophile hellscape,” alongside figures that it claims suggest the company is massively exaggerating the number of people using it.
Highlighted Press Releases
CUTE, SOFT AND PUNNY PUNCHKINS ARE SO HERE FOR THAT 2024 HOLIDAY CHEER. Glastonbury, CT
(October 21, 2024) – Spice up your holiday season and warm the hearts of your family like hearths against the chilly weather with some punchy humor! Punchkins, the beloved brand of punny plush, has a host of year-round charmers that will bring smiles and more than a few chuckles to the gift-giving circle. Best of all, Punchkins have offerings that will please the humor palettes of everyone, young and old.
WHAT’S NEW IN ARTS & CRAFTS FOR NIMBLE FINGERS? BRIGHT STRIPES HAS A TRIO TO TRY! Ages 8+ Will Amaze Friends With Nimbler Knitter Or Decorate-A-Cake Jewelry Box As Preschools Discover An Array Of Basics In Ready For School Art Set. Bloomfield, NJ (October 18, 2024) – As kids spend more time indoors this season, get them to flex their fingers with fun activities that introduce them to pleasurable pastimes of knitting, drawing and ceramic decorating. Bright Stripes, the world-class purveyor of arts and crafts supplies, has a trio of brand-new kits, just in time for holiday gift giving!
*** The above posted after tBR circulated on October 18th ***
YOUR KIDS CAN NOW TAKE CHARGE OF PLANNING YOUR LOS ANGELES WEEKEND ADVENTURES THANKS TO TRIP JONES NEW KIDS’ GUIDES. Here We Come LA With The Brand New Kids’ Guide to Los Angeles featuring the Best Places to Explore, Play, See and Eat From A Kid’s View. Chicago, IL (October 14, 2024) – If a parent had to guess which future memory would become the most vivid for their child, would they pick a birthday? December holidays? No, according to the US Family Travel Association. It’s a vacation! It might be spending a day at a hidden gem discovered in your own city. Or the day that everything seemed to go wrong but turned out to be an incredible adventure.
CRA-Z-ART FUELS GROWTH WITH KEY ACQUISITION OF TOP SECRET TOYS. Cra-Z-Art, a leading U.S. manufacturer and innovator in the toy, activity, art, and school supply industries, proudly announces the acquisition of Top Secret Toys. Cra-Z-Art, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, continues its trajectory of rapid growth and with this strategic investment, significantly expands its footprint in both domestic and international markets. Founded in 2015 in Chicago, Top Secret Toys has established itself as a trusted name in the toy industry with its popular Dissect-It, Giga Pet Brands and Spin Pop brands. Known for delivering toys that blend creativity, education, and fun, Top Secret Toys has earned the trust and loyalty of both children and parents alike. The company’s diverse product portfolio spans categories such as flying toys, STEM activities, and games.
Safety and Counterfeiting
Instagram is introducing a series of new safety features to protect users from sextortion scammers, the company announced on Thursday. Most notably, the company is no longer going to allow people to screenshot or screen record ephemeral images or videos sent in private messages.
*** The above posted after October 18th when tBR circulated ***
TIE finds more unsafe toys on online platforms. Toy Industries of Europe (TIE) recently bought over 100 toys from third-party traders from both within and outside the EU on 10 online marketplaces. 80% of the toys failed to meet EU safety standards, such as those set by the EU Toy Safety Directive. Independent laboratory tests show these toys pose serious health risks for children, including choking hazards...
Fisher-Price Recalls 2 Million ‘Snuga Swings’ After Five Infant Deaths. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall, which one of its commissioners said was “doomed to fail.” “In most of those incidents, the infants were unrestrained and bedding materials were added to the product,” it said.
Parents warned after Temu toys risk 'serious injury or death'. Parents are being warned their children are at risk of "serious injury or even death" if they play with a number of toys available from online marketplace Temu. Consumer group CHOICE purchased and tested 15 random toys from the popular Chinese-owned site and although the type of product varied, they had two things in common...
In an effort to keep kids safer online, government branches in the UK and US have come together to set up and launch a new joint children’s online safety working group. Announced yesterday in a statement issued by UK Technology Secretary Peter Kyle and US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, the initiative calls for online platforms to go “further and faster” to protect kids online.
Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Spectrum Laboratory’s double whammy. Hot on the heels of its Sept 26 Jorge Gutierrez-led “Fighting with Autism” animation career seminar at the Burbank, CA Victory Theatre comes a Spec Labs one-two punch on Sunset Boulevard: the HOUSE OF MASKS short film premiere and Spec-ond City improv presentation on the Laugh Factory comedy club mainstage. The event unfolds on Oct 21 at 5:30 p.m., and admission is free...
*** The above posted after tBR circulated October 18th ***
The World of Toys Pavilion from Spielwarenmesse eG opens up direct access to the N.A. market for international businesses. The shared stand at Toy Fair New York, which runs from 1st to 4th March 2025, provides an opportunity for exhibitors to present their products in a concise, targeted way. The World of Toys Pavilion also offers a prominent location, being based on Level 3 of the Jacob K. Javits
Int'l Tokyo Toy Show 2024, Bursting with Novelty and Nostalgia. Tokyo Toy Show 2024 was filled with innovative and nostalgia-invoking products that expanded our imaginations and introduced a new sense of wonder. Many visitors at the Bandai Co. Booth at International Tokyo Toy Show in Koto Ward on August 29.
NYCC: 12 must-attend toy & game industry panels. Toys and collectibles are invading New York Comic Con in a big way… New York Comic Con (NYCC) is this week and the toy industry is hitting the Javits Center in a big way — and it’s not even Toy Fair! While many toy, game, and collectibles manufacturers will be exhibiting and selling products on the show floor...
Spring Fair launches Retail Insights podcast with Jeff Banks CBE. Spring Fair has launched a new Retail Insights podcast series for retail, and by retail, to both celebrate its upcoming 75th anniversary and shine a light on businesses in the industry. The retail trade show has collaborated with legendary designer and TV personality Jeff Banks CBE to create a series of free podcasts featuring interviews with 15...
Wizards of the Coast announces three Magiccon 2025 dates and locations and Pro Tour schedule. Wizards of the Coast announced the dates for three MagicCons planned for 2025. MagicCons are back again for 2025, after a successful 2024 tour. These events offer Magic: The Gathering fans a chance to play, collect, attend panels, and watch Pro Tour matches unfold.
Independent retailers prep for ASTRA’s Neighborhood Toy Store Month. Throughout the country, independent toy retailers are preparing for Neighborhood Toy Store Month (NTSM), the annual celebration organized by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). Neighborhood toy stores offer a curated selection of products, and many have Certified Play Experts (CPEs) on staff.
NYCC is upon us, but it's not the only worthwhile event in October. Fan culture contains multitudes, and three events taking place this month capture a broad spectrum of special interests. Yes, there’s NYCC that will take up a lot of oxygen, energy and money, but the following week, LightBox Expo in Pasadena will gather the cream of commercial artists for a professional conference...
Harvey Awards announce 2024 Hall of Fame inductees. The Harvey Awards Hall of Fame has announced the five 2024 inductees, who will be honored at the awards ceremony at New York Comic Con this week. The five inductees are: Arthur Adams, the artist and writer who’s best known for his work at Marvel, including Uncanny X-Men, Excalibur, and X-Factor.
Wizards of the Coast announces WPN Retailer Summit. Wizards of the Coast announced that they will be holding a new virtual WPN Retailer Summit on November 12, 2024 at 9 am PT for North American stores. This summit will give retailers a chance to listen to presentations from WotC teams as well as President John Hight.
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
Ace Edward Fogarty - It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ace Edward Fogarty of Siesta Key, Florida, husband of Bonnie, inventor of Glo Worm amongst many other toys, who passed away on August 13, 2024, at the age of 80
Loren Hildebrand, 85, of La Quinta, California passed away on October 8, 2024. As a young person, Loren excelled academically and remained an active reader and learner throughout his life. He attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma where he earned a degree in Economics, advancing to the University of Washington, to receive an MBA. Shortly thereafter, he began a three-decade long career in the toy industry during which he achieved great successes and mentored many.
Loren rose through the ranks of Mattel Toys to the role of Executive Vice President. Following 24 years at Mattel, Loren entered into a partnership with Bandai to launch Toy Soldiers and from there went on to Galoob, where he served in an executive leadership role, assisting in the launch of the Star Wars brand. Loren was known as a polished executive, strategic thinker and a leader who was greatly admired and respected. He had a unique ability to manage the needs of both company and customer for the betterment of both organizations. He was a role model and advisor to countless individuals during his career, many of whom remained close friends. Read More...
Ned Mansour - Shortly after retiring in 2000 as president of toy maker giant Mattel, where he spent 22 years, Ned Mansour became the caretaker of Mattel executive Joe McKay. Mansour’s friend had been diagnosed with colon cancer. For six months, Mansour drove McKay to medical appointments at UCLA and ran errands for him.
McKay was divorced and didn’t want to share the severity of his condition with his three adult children. When it became evident that McKay’s disease was terminal, Mansour began researching hospice services and discovered Providence TrinityCare Hospice.
TrinityCare subsequently began caring for McKay. During a vigil in McKay’s home, when it was apparent his end was near, Mansour took a short walk on the beach so McKay’s family could could be alone with him. When Mansour returned, McKay had passed away.
Mansour was so moved by the the compassionate care that McKay received under hospice that he decided to devote his time to Providence TrinityCare Hospice.
He served on the TrinityCare board from 2001 to 2006, then returned in 2011 to chair the board. Read More...
Tim Brooke-Hunt, former ABC head of children’s and a founding partner of Kidscreen’s Asian Animation Summit event, has died after a long illness. Brooke-Hunt joined the ABC in 2007 as executive head of children’s content for ABC TV and then became controller of children’s in 2010. During his tenure, he spearheaded the launch of ABC3 for school-age kids and the relaunch of preschool channel ABC4Kids. Brooke-Hunt also oversaw the ABC’s educational programs and online content for children, including two dedicated portals.
Shukuo Ishikawa, a former president for Bandai Namco in the late 2000s, passed away at 69 years old on September 9. Per Oricon News, the developer released a statement explaining it chose to wait until after his private funeral to reveal his death.
Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories
Some Added Friday Morning Chicago Time. Check Back for Complete Lists.
Toy Trade Monthly Issues
Adventure Media & Events (US)
Toyworld (UK)
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The Entertainer completes roll-out at over 850 Tesco stores in UK and Ireland
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Surprise Kobbie Mainoo Match Attax appearance stuns Man U fans
Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld
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Jellyfish Originals and Toikido strike co-production deal for Battalor series
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Crayola Studios and Hallmark announce expansion of Rainbow Brite
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- Wizards of the Coast Announces Three MagicCon 2025 Dates and Locations
- Wizards of the Coast Announces WPN Retailer Summit
- Wizards of the Coast Offers Up New Event Cycle for 'D&D: 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide' Release
- 'Marvel HeroClix Iconix: First Appearance X-Men' Incoming
- GameStop Becomes an Authorized PSA Dealer
- Become a Noveaux Elder with New 'Vampire: The Masquerade 5E' Sourcebook
- Rolling for Initiative -- Store Championships, Melee and the Spooky Season
- Keyrune Inc. CEO Issues Response to ICv2 Column
- People on The Move: Steve Horvath Retires from Asmodee
- Games Workshop Unveils 'Warhammer 40,000: Kill Team - Starter Set'
Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)
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Famosa relaunches Chabel, the iconic doll from the 80s and 90s
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Sports and anime drive the growth of toy licensing in Europe
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FAMOSA release a limited edition of 'Nancy Aitana Alphahouse'
Global Toy News
The Bugg Report (Australia)
The Toy Universe (Australia)
hobbyDB
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New Showcase Feature: Customizable Estimated Value Top-10 Lists
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Should Shipping Be Included in a Price Point for a Collectible's Estimated Value?
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Thrilljoy to Debut at New York Comic Con 2024! See Them All on hobbyDB!
Video of the Week
Calling all Kids! Enter the Young Inventor Challenge
JOIN PEOPLE OF PLAY (POP)
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Thank you for being a reader of the Bloom Report. — Mary and Graeme
Founding Editor and Publisher (1998-2020, Retired): Philip Bloom
We are honored to carry on Phil's 22 year legacy and continue the Bloom Report. Phil has been a mensch
and we've loved working with him. Here is a fun and interesting interview with Phil.
If you would like to reach Phil: philip.bloom100@verizon.net
Publisher: Mary Couzin, Chicago Toy & Game Group, Inc.
Managing Editor: Graeme Thomson
Assistant Editor: Patrick Fisher
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 us a note! mary@chitag.com
