the Bloom Report

July 19 - 26, 2024

CLICK HERE - THE BLOOM REPORT 24/7 NEWSFEED

Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!

2023 TAGIEs Brendan Boyle, Angus Walker, Mary Couzin, Bea Pardo, Tim Kilpin .jpg

Happy Bloomin' Friday!

Submit your TAGIE nominations! Free, easy and fast! Deadline is August 2nd! Here are the gorgeous fun photos from the 2023 TAGIE Awards.

Submitted your nomination? Thank you! Now... check out the feature stories below. Economies worldwide are on the rise and Hasbro and Mattel's reports were positive, so let's celebrate! Donate to the Toy Foundation to help kids in hospitals AND to Rachel Griffin's GoFundMe to swim the English Channel and fund the cure for cancer.

Connect, pitch and learn at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference,

Celebrate colleagues at the TAGIEs

Encourage a creative kid to enter the Young Inventor Challenge

Meet consumers, influencers and trade in your Chicago Toy & Game Fair booth

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Mary

"Congratulations on the outstanding job that you and your team are doing on producing The Bloom Report. It seems like it is getting better and better almost every week!!! Bravo!!!" -Ron Cantor, Rainbow Concepts, Inc.
If you are tired of these quotes, send me yours!

Commentary: Pam Mastrota

Join The Toy Foundation at “Party with a Purpose” to Bring Play to Children’s Hospitals

Play is a critical need at children’s hospitals to improve pediatric care and treatment outcomes. Annually, 5 million children are hospitalized, and The Toy Foundation’s (TTF) Children’s Hospital Play Grants program will have delivered the power of play to 500,000 children and families by the end of 2024.

What we have accomplished is remarkable. With the toy industry’s united support, we can bring play to more children’s hospitals, especially those which serve economically disadvantaged communities, and reach as many young patients as possible. TTF’s upcoming fundraiser, “Party with a Purpose” at TAO Los Angeles, is the perfect opportunity to come together, combine resources, and create a greater impact than any one company could achieve on their own.

Taking place on Monday, September 9 to kickoff The Toy Association’s LA Fall Preview market week (Sept. 9-13), “Party with a Purpose” will feature an exclusive performance from legendary rock band Blues Traveler; networking opportunities with the industry’s top movers and shakers; an auction of unique experiences and items; and delicious food and drink, to make for an unforgettable evening. A hospital partner will also be there to share the importance of play in the lives of their patients.

Join us by purchasing a ticket, serving as a sponsor, and participating in our online auction (open to the public starting Sept. 9). All proceeds will directly support hospitalized children and their families and are tax deductible. READ MORE...

Person of the Week: Timothy Savas

Toys Breakthrough Innovation at Ferrero

What is your role at Ferrero?

Toys Breakthrough Innovation at Ferrero. I research and develop new technologies for the toys inside of Kinder Surprise and Kinder Joy.

Why and how did you get into the toy industry?

My background is in research and engineering. Before Ferrero I was a staff researcher and engineer at MIT Media Lab, making various electromechanical devices and running experiments. Media Lab is a place where research, engineering, design, and also play, are encouraged to come together. Kinder toys R&D involves a similar way of thinking.

Tell me about Ferrero’s North America innovation center.

Ferrero launched an innovation center here in downtown Chicago in 2023. Without pulling the curtain back, I’ll say it’s an amazing place. Truly not unlike Willy Wonka––engineers 3D printing toys in one room, bakers pouring chocolate in the next.

A main reason we’re located here is to intake and participate in the innovation happening in North America, and to bring it into our products. For me, that’s Kinder.

What are you up to in the Toys Lab these days?

All kinds of toys R&D projects––top secret ones!

A thing to know is that we’re growing the Toys Lab and currently looking to hire someone to work with me here. Tell all of your friends in Chicago.

Here’s the link to apply: www.ferrerocareers.com/us/en/jobs/toy-innovation-lab-project-manager-kinder-surprise READ MORE...

Person of the Week: Rachel Griffin

(English) Channeling a Cure - Making Waves Against Cancer

My name is Rachel Griffin and my heart is set on making a positive impact on the world. Daily, I draw inspiration from the unwavering strength of those facing the battle against cancer. In light of this, I've decided to take on a substantial challenge—pursuing the Triple Crown in swimming. To date, only 331 people in the world have successfully completed this trifecta. My mission is to raise funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer research, patient care, advocacy, and more. I will do this in honor of my mother, Patricia A. Griffin, who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer 16 years ago this May.

Recognizing the ambitious nature of this goal, I embarked on my journey in 2018. As a solo swimmer, I successfully conquered two of the world's toughest open water swims—the Catalina Channel, 21 miles from Catalina Island to Palos Verdes, California - 2018 and the 20 Bridges, also known as the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim, a 28.5-mile circumnavigation of Manhattan Island - 2019.

This summer, in honor of my mom and all of those who are battling cancer, I am taking on the challenge of swimming across the English Channel (minimum of 21 miles) on August 28th (or as close to that date as weather permits) to complete the Triple Crown. If I am lucky, the weather will be favorable, the water temp with be in the upper 50s / low 60s, the jellyfish will be sleeping, the freighter traffic will be light and the lady of the sea will politely let me cross - all while ONLY wearing a swimsuit, swim cap, goggles and ear plugs. I know this journey will demand rigorous training—cold open water swims, countless hours at the pool and gym—testing my body and mind like never before. Yet, these challenges pale in comparison to the struggles faced by those battling cancer.

READ MORE... AND DONATE

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

Mr Potato Loaded from Debbie Labinger.jpg

Cartoon of the Week: Thank you Debbie Labinger for the funny cartoon this week!

Memorable Quotes: “Small victories remind us that progress is not always a leap; sometimes, it's a series of baby steps.” – Unknown (While this quote was not attributed to anyone, it has been Alan Hassenfeld's sage advice to me on many times over the years. -Mary)

Toy Industry Word of Day: On the Water - 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!

People celebrating birthdays this week - Happy Birthday!

Peggy Brown, Tim Kilpin, Isaac Heller, Kelly Ehrenman, Hemant Gupta, Maria McLane, Michele Goren, Sabrina Cameli, and Beatrix Potter

Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary

Financial and Legal

Haba has announced the successful completion of its restructuring. The company says it is experiencing growth and remains committed to its mission of providing exceptional play experiences for children worldwide.In a testament to its dedication to innovation, Haba continues to launch new products across all categories, including wooden toys, games and puzzles.

Mattel’s stock rallies on news of acquisition offer as Hasbro may enter the fray. D.A. Davidson says Mattel ‘fits the bill’ as a private-equity takeover target thanks to its low valuation and high free cash flow. The news was reported by Reuters, which said that rival Hasbro knew about the move by L Catterton and was weighing whether to make its own offer, potentially marking the latest attempt at a tie-up between the 2 companies.

L Catterton, the private equity firm backed by luxury goods giant LVMH, opens new tab, has approached Mattel, opens new tab, the toy maker behind Barbie and Hot Wheels, with an acquisition offer, people familiar with the matter said on Monday. The move could prompt other potential suitors to consider bids for Mattel, including rival Hasbro, opens new tab, which has become aware of L Catterton's approach...

Mattel’s Turnaround Toy Story Is Working, But Will Investors Buy It? Mattel delivered new evidence in its second-quarter earnings report that its turnaround plan is working. But the boost in the company’s stock today most likely is a reaction to a rumored buyout attempt, rather than Mattel’s performance. Mattel’s stock was up more than 9 percent at mid-day, after reporting better than expected earnings and improved...

Social media platform TikTok has agreed to pay a penalty of US$2.4 million to UK media regulator Ofcom after failing to respond accurately and within a set timeframe to a request for information about its parental controls safety feature. In this particular case, Ofcom says it was seeking information from video-sharing platforms under regulations that pre-date the UK’s Online Safety Act...

The whole world came to a halt thanks to a single software update. Americans are waking up this morning to discover that the whole world isn’t working properly. It’s a crisis that has spread around the planet, grounding flights, shutting down hospital procedures, and causing worldwide travel chaos, and it’s all because of a single software update by cyber-security firm Crowdstrike.

FTC Calls Xbox Game Pass price hike 'exactly the sort of consumer harm' it tried to stop. The agency filed a letter in its ongoing appeal of the Activision Blizzard merger. On Wednesday, the Federal Trade Commission pointed to Microsoft’s recent pricing overhaul of Xbox Game Pass as evidence of the harm its merger with Activision Blizzard has had on consumers.

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Financial Reporting

Hasbro Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates as Turnaround Continues. Hasbro reported revenue of $995 million in Q2 as it turned a profit compared to a loss in the same quarter last year. The bulk of the revenue loss came from the exit of the eOne business and a shift in entertainment timing. Excluding this, revenue dipped 6%. Wizards of the Coast and Digital Gaming grew 20% in Q2.

Mattel Kicks Off Q2 Earnings Season with Resilience. Net sales slid 1% worldwide while sales in North America dipped 3% compared to last year. Reported operating income was $83 million, an improvement of $20 million. Adjusted operating income was $96 million, an improvement of $21 million.

Amazon Prime Day drives U.S. online sales to record $14.2 billion

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

Top Toy Companies to Work for in 2024

GAMING LAYOFFS ALREADY TOP 2023’S TOTAL — AND IT’S ONLY JULY

Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’ Becomes Top Animated Film of All Time at Global Box Office. The record-shattering summer tentpole passed up fellow Disney release 'Frozen II' on Tuesday.

As Comic-Con Kicks Off, Japan’s Booming Anime Industry Is Attracting Institutional Finance. New funds and technologies aim to boost a sector with increasing global appeal

Sales slump in the middle-grade book market. Print book sales for the segment are down by more than 1.8 million units in the US for the first half of the year, as more screentime pulls kids away from recreational reading.

FMI’ Analyst view: “The Magic of Toy Packaging: Market Insights and Trends”

82 percent of adult gamers have spent money in a F2P game, new study shows.

Gamers with disabilities say a culture shift in studios is leading to a more inclusive experience

Kids prefer to watch live sports on TV at home. KidsKnowBest's latest sports research draws on insights from the company's always-on community of 1,500 kids ages three to 18 in the UK and US.

New survey reveals favorite games for summer holidays. The Entertainer’s survey revealed the most popular board and card games adults pack for a family trip, including Uno, Scrabble and Monopoly.

Toyjobs has been the dominant recruiting

Stories, Comments, and Advice

John Baulch, Toy World - Time of the Season … it’s the Friday Blog! It’s the time of year when everyone fixates on the weather (which thankfully looks good for the next few days) – it’s also a bit of a lull period for the toy market, the calm before the storm in many respects. On the plus side, that means I can get little tasks done like booking our hotel rooms for next year’s London Toy Fair and sorting out our flights to...

Chefs create new recipes for vintage food toys. I was excited to see THREE of my own toy designs included: Doctor Dreadful Drink Lab and Food Lab, and the Queasy Bake Oven. My toy inventor's hat is off to chefs Mike Finsilver, Rece Hogerheide, and Chris Allen for whipping up hilarious haute cuisine in the 1990's "gross food" toy style. Foie gras mousse "dog bones?" "Red Wine Vinegar Pickled Cauliflower Brains with...

THE SARASOTA TOY MUSEUM, SET TO OPEN IN AUGUST ON 17TH STREET, PROMISES A NOSTALGIC JOURNEY WITH ITS IMPRESSIVE MODEL RAILROAD AND VAST COLLECTION OF VINTAGE TOYS. OWNED BY RICHARD PIERSON, THE MUSEUM FEATURES A PROFESSIONALLY BUILT HO SCALE TRAIN LAYOUT BY DAVID FRARY, SHOWCASING SEASONAL TRANSITIONS AND OVER 28,000 HANDMADE TREES.

Julia Fitzgerald - In today’s Midsize Match Up, we are expanding our scope and talking to a DIGITAL agency! Yes, our digital friends were saying, “Hey, what about us? The performance growth gurus?” So we are kicking off with Philip Ware, VP of Strategy at Thrive Digital —no pressure, Phil, ushering in a whole new chapter for Midsize DIGITAL agency match ups. So let’s go!

Steve Reece - THE PRODUCT SELECTION PROCESS: HOW TO FILTER OUT PRODUCTS WHICH WILL FAIL & IDENTIFY POTENTIAL SMASH HITS?
There is fairly true cliché regarding the Toy business – it’s sometimes seen as better to throw plenty of stuff out there against the wall and to see what sticks, because so many Toys in the marketplace are transient.

Autism Study Reveals 'Valuable' Benefits of Board Games. Anecdotally, it has been observed that board gaming is a popular hobby among people with autism. However, new research from the University of Plymouth in the U.K. has, for the first time, explored the association scientifically, and uncovered important reasons for this link.

'Hello Kitty is not a cat': Fans in denial after creators reveal she's 'a little girl'. Hello Kitty was created in 1974 by Sanrio. Jill Koch, the SVP of marketing and brand management at Sanrio, appeared on Today on Thurs. and said, "Hello Kitty is not a cat," and "she's actually a little girl.” Koch then told the TV show that Hello Kitty, who "weighs 3 apples" and is 5 apples tall, grew up in the London suburbs with her twin sister, Mimmy...

How Playing Games Shaped Our Species. Games are an extraordinary invention. A game—whether a video game, board game, casino game, or otherwise—is an arrangement of ideas the brain devised to give itself free pleasure out of nothing. In other words, the brain created games to hack itself. We’ve had some sense of this for thousands of years: the Greek historian Herodotus wrote about the Lydian people who supposedly...

The importance of immediacy. Having a "rapid response" team watching for opportunities to quickly create timely series can help companies keep up with YouTube's popularity—and kids' interests, says David Kleeman. At this month’s Children’s Media Conference in Sheffield, the “CMC Debate” covered the role of YouTube in young people’s lives, and how its popularity may displace culturally relevant media...

Why is it so expensive to make games in the United States? In the midst of a layoff crisis impacting game developers across the globe, a disheartening trend has emerged: American studios are being crushed under the weight of the country's high cost of living. This phenomenon is hitting companies of all shapes and sizes.

The coolest exclusive toys and collectibles at San Diego Comic-Con 2024. It’s San Diego Comic-Con week, and that means news, it means cosplay, and it means—whether you’re on the convention floor or not—oodles of fancy exclusive toys and merch to tempt your wallet with. There’s a lot on offer this year, both at SDCC itself and online during the event, so here’s our annual round ups of just some of our favorite toys...

The Politics of Play. The Toy Book’s Editor-in-Chief shares a few thoughts amid historic times. To borrow an overused phrase that popped up en masse throughout the pandemic, “We’re living in unprecedented times.” No matter what your party affiliation or lack thereof, there is an undeniable truth that we’re collectively experiencing historic events that, like it or not, will impact our businesses down the road

History and Nostalgia

The great outdoors: Sum-Sum-Summertime simulation games. The weather is warm, the skies are clear, and we are off for … a round of golf, a sailing outing, a healthy hike, or maybe a picnic. But what if the weather turns rainy? While we likely won’t enjoy being outside under thunderclouds, several vintage and contemporary board games simulate all these summer activities and more inside the home.

Barracuda Motorized Atomic Sub from Remco (1962). Introduced in 1962, Remco’s Barracuda Motorized Atomic Sub allowed children to imagine underwater adventures without needing water. The “play anywhere” toy ran on four D-batteries and stood 37 inches long. The sub was put in motion by turning the pericope, moving over flat surfaces via a set of concealed wheels built into its hull.

Rare vintage toys seek new homes in latest Hake’s Auction. Looking to adopt a rare vintage toy? From He-Man to G.I. Joe to ThunderCats, the collectibles of the 1980s (and ’70s, and ’60s) are up on the auction block at Hake’s, looking for their new forever homes. While bidding starts at all levels, the following are some of the rarest of the rare, commanding some of the highest prices.

‘Toys of Sports’ exhibition at Istanbul Toy Museum. A new exhibition, "Toys of Sports," organized with the support of Trendyol, the first Turkish partner of the International Olympic Committee, combines the excitement of the Olympics with fascinating toys. Toys from various sports from Ancient Greece to modern times can be seen in the exhibition.

Licensing and Entertainment

Hasbro dominates the licensed gaming market. Hasbro is leading the pack as the top licensor in the multi-billion-dollar video game industry, according to new research published by SuperJoost earlier this week. The top 10 companies on the list generated US$9.9 billion in combined revenue.

Some of Mattel’s most well-known characters have a new streaming home on Kidoodle.TV. In a multi-year deal, the AVOD platform will welcome 850 episodes from nine different Mattel brands, including Barbie, Thomas & Friends, American Girl and Hot Wheels. Some of this content is already available, and more episodes will roll out weekly, says chief content officer Brenda Bisner.

To celebrate the release of Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine, Disney Consumer Products India has collaborated with 25 brands across apparel, food and beverage, accessories and technology to launch an array of themed merchandise locally. These brands include Adidas, BoAt, Coca-Cola, Myntra, Nestle Polo, The Souled Store, Wrogn and more. Deadpool joins the ranks of powerhouses like Iron Man...

To mark the first day of San Diego Comic-Con 2024, the Lego Group announced the fifth addition to its Lego Super Mario range for adults by welcoming the beloved and fan-favorite character, Yoshi, in homage to his earliest appearance, carrying Mario into adventure. This is the first time fans will see Mario’s trusted companion, Yoshi, in 2D Lego brick form.

Story House Egmont and Spin Master have announced an agreement to launch a Unicorn Academy™ magazine in the UK market. Laura Adnitt, Publishing and Brand Management Director at Story House Egmont said: “we are really excited about launching the Unicorn Academy magazine in the UK market. The hugely successful Netflix series, coupled with the relevant and timeless storytelling from the original...

TOMY INTERNATIONAL AND PARAMOUNT ANNOUNCE A CROWD-FUNDED STAR TREK™ U.S.S. ENTERPRISE NCC-1701 FROM THE FIRST MOTION PICTURE. TOMY continues to work with noted Star Trek experts, such as Gary Kerr, to ensure this replica is as accurate as possible to the original motion picture studio model. “As far as I'm concerned, this is the most accurate model of the Motion Picture Enterprise...

Mattel is announced a new partnership with AthLife, Inc. to create branded game day activations at sporting events across the country to celebrate Barbie’s 65th anniversary year. The first event as part of the partnership will be on Aug 20th at the Boston vs. Houston Astros MLB Barbie Night Game, shortly followed by the first WNBA Barbie Night Game on Aug 30th when the Indiana Fever take on the Chicago Sky.

Cra-Z-Art recently showcased its new Disney Crystal Surprise toy at Sweet Suite. Kids can unbox more than 12 different Disney figures — including Stitch, Disney Princess Belle, Minnie Mouse, and Mickey Mouse — and each figure has a crystal-like appearance. The Disney Crystal Surprise balls also include additional surprises such as small accessories.

Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and City Football Group (CFG), the parent of English Premier League champions Manchester City, have struck a strategic deal to co-develop and produce scripted, non-fiction and kids programs for a global audience. The plan will incorporate CFG’s global network, sports expertise and access to football talent, facilities and its City Studios production division with SPT’s production smarts.

WildBrain secures a US$415-million investment. Private lenders including Savard and Comvest have rallied behind the company’s growth strategy, which is focused on key franchises and partnerships. Working with a number of private lenders including Sagard and Comvest Credit Partners, WildBrain will get a US$375-million term loan and a US$40-million revolving credit facility.

Sanrio Company and Nippon TV’s ClaN Entertainment subsidiary have inked an agreement to share capital and production resources to build a business in the market of animated YouTubers/live streamers. The goal of this partnership is to create virtual YouTubers, which are 2D- or CG-animated avatars—typically produced through motion-capture technology—that take the place of YouTubers or live-streamers.

Hasbro Pulse launches new Deadpool roleplay item. Hasbro Pulse, Hasbro’s destination for fans and fan merchandise, has recently announced The Marvel Legends Series Deadpool’s Head; a premium, electronic, interactive, app-enhanced collectible with over 600 SFX and phrases, multiple sensors and motors for expressive movement.

Just Play expands Doorables offerings with additions to Star Wars lines. Just Plays’ toy-collectible brand Doorables has debuted its second Star Wars series. The initial Star Wars Doorables line was released early this year, and included plush and figures. Adding to Just Play’s lineup of hot Doorables collectibles, the new line includes the Ewok Village Galaxy Peek and a Star Wars Wide-Screen Movie Moments product,...

Hunter Price named partner on L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Crayola. Hunter Price International has been named the consumer product partner in the UK and Europe for the high-profile collaboration between L.O.L. Surprise! and Crayola for the L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Crayola announced late last year.

Here are the new LEGO Fortnite sets, including a horrific Peely statue. The Lego Group and Epic Games announced new Lego sets based on the popular free-to-play shooter Fortnite. Three of these sets are cool and fun. One of these sets is a horrific nightmare that might feature the first time a living creature’s guts have been displayed in a Lego build.

Ultraman Trading Card Game to launch. Tsuburaya Productions is bringing fans into the Ultraman universe with the first trading card game based on the Japanese hero, the Ultraman Card Game. The trading card game will debut at retail Oct. 25, with an industry-first release in four languages and 15 countries and regions.

Meow Wolf designs Shashibo Cubes for Fun In Motion Toys. Families and art lovers who have walked through one or all of Meow Wolf’s “trippy visuals with cosmic storytelling” – as Fast Company describes them – can now be found through the patented magnetic puzzle cube known as Shashibo, which stands for shape-shifting box.

JAKKS Pacific Reveals New ‘Simpsons’ Rollout at SDCC. New line of toys and collectibles based on the animated series will be introduced at the event. JAKKS Pacific and Disguise have announced details about their panel at San Diego Comic-Con, which will take place Thursday, July 25, at 11 a.m. in room 29AB.

Nacelle announces seasons 4 & 5 of ‘The Toys That Made Us’. Nacelle, the Burbank-based diversified media company known for Netflix’s The Movies That Made Us, Disney’s Behind the Attraction, and the upcoming animated series Biker Mice from Mars, and RoboForce is bringing The Toys That Made Us back for at least two additional seasons, which are currently in production.

Moose Toys secures licensing deal for ‘The Amazing Digital Circus’. Moose Toys will serve as the series’ master global toy partner. Moose Toys has inked a licensing deal with Glitch Productions, the company behind the YouTube series The Amazing Digital Circus. Moose Toys will serve as the master global toy partner for the animated series and plans to launch a product line next year.

Modiphius brings 'Space: 1999' to the tabletop: Role-playing the classic sci-fi show. Modiphius Entertainment has teamed up with Anderson Entertainment to produce a tabletop role-playing game based on the 1970s science fiction television series Space: 1999. The new game will launch later this year, shortly before the show’s 50th Anniversary in 2025.

U.S. streaming rivals team up to catch Netflix. U.S. video streaming companies are joining forces to attract new viewers, boost ad sales, and finally turn a profit -- something only Netflix has managed to accomplish so far. Be it Disney Plus, Hulu, and Max, or ESPN, Warner Brothers Discovery and Fox -- the streaming world is reshaping into unlikely alliances.

Russo Bros. back on 'Avengers'; 'X-Men 97' gets Emmy nom; Trailers and news for 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,' 'Agatha All Along,' 'Dune: Prophecy,' 'Dragon Ball Daima'. Geek Showbiz Round-Up. In the run-up to San Diego, there was a flurry of showbiz action to clear the decks for the big announcements, and we round up the news here.

'Disney Lorcana Gateway' hits Target: Details of entry-level set revealed. Disney Lorcana TCG Gateway, the new entry-level starter set for Ravensburger’s trading card game, is now available at Target stores and will be released to other retailers starting on August 9. Announced back in January, Gateway is intended to offer a jumping-on point for players new to the game by incorporating elements of board games...

Magneto gravitates towards 'Marvel Champions: The Card Game' brand-new hero pack. Fantasy Flight Games revealed Magneto Hero Pack, for Marvel Champions: The Card Game, which will hit retail on November 15, 2024. The X-Men's primary nemesis Magneto turns good guy as he enters Marvel Champions: The Card Game with this Hero Pack.

Toybox Labs signs its first celebrity license. EXCLUSIVE: Iconic magicians Penn & Teller have partnered with the company behind the world's only 3D printer for kids to launch an exclusive line of make-at-home magic tricks. Branching out from licensing kids entertainment brands from companies including Warner Bros. Discovery,

HarperCollins imprint Clarion Books is set to adapt Ursula Le Guin’s iconic fantasy novel A Wizard of Earthsea as its first-ever graphic novel. Fred Fordham will illustrate the comic, drawing on his experience adapting other classic works such as Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World for the format.

Former Topps VP Ira Friedman and artist Joe Simko have teamed up with Titmouse in LA to co-develop an animated series for kids ages six to 12 based on their fledgling trading card game Crainiacs. The brand’s backstory kicks off when two planets collide and a stone-age society meets a futuristic one.

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People of Play

Following this morning’s earnings release and call, I caught up with Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks by phone for a deeper dive into how the company is reshaping its business to embrace consumers of all ages in new ways with a refreshed focus on play. On the earnings call this morning you noted that 60% of Hasbro’s revenue comes from consumers ages 13 and up and that “play is aging up and going more international, more digital, and more direct.” How does that break down?

Laugh Factory Taps David Fuhrer, John Weiser for Senior Leadership Roles Amid Expansion Plans. The iconic comedy brand, headquartered on L.A.'s Sunset Strip and owned by Jamie Masada, is launching Laugh Factory Entertainment, a new content division for TV, film, podcasts and more. David Fuhrer is now on board, serving as president, while John Weiser has been appointed head of entertainment to oversee the new...

Lego's CEO on the business case for play. As digital innovation reshapes the toy market, the BBC's Executive Lounge meets with Lego's Chief Executive, Niels B Christiansen, to discuss why playing around is good for children, adults and business. Inside Lego's factory in Billund, Denmark, rows of moulding machines churn out tiny plastic pieces as robots shuttle around the shop floor. 

BBC Studios has tapped veteran TV exec Zai Bennett to lead its BBC Studios Productions content division as CEO and chief creative officer. Reporting to BBC Studios CEO Tom Fussell, Bennett will join in Nov. His oversight encompasses genres including kids & family, factual, scripted and audio, spanning the co’s 12 UK production units and int'l production bases in the Nordics, India, Australia, Spain, South Africa, U.S...

Toy Business Unboxed episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jim Seymour, VP and CTO of E-Blox. Our conversation explored the vital role of STEM education, innovative product designs, and the future of educational toys. Here’s a breakdown of our discussion: Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed, Meet Jim from E-Blox, E-Blox Mission and Unique Features, Challenges and Adaptations During COVID...

While the madcap adventures of loveable blue heeler Bluey has turned the Queensland cartoon character into a global superstar, another home-grown animation powerhouse is also taking Hollywood by storm. "Creative hurricanes" Kristen Souvlis and Nadine Bates have built the only female-led and owned animation studio in the country, with every frame carefully crafted in Brisbane.

Former Epic Games exec Alain Tascan is the new president of Netflix Games. Epic Games former EVP of game development, Alain Tascan, has been named president of Netflix Games. Prior to joining Epic, Tascan served as CEO of Umi Mobile, vice chairman at Funcom, VP and general manager at EA Montreal, and VP of production at Ubisoft.

Companies and Brands

Mattel Introduces Its First Blind Barbie to Further Inclusivity in Dolls: 'Great for Our Community'. Eric Bridges, CEO of American Foundation for the Blind, tells PEOPLE that the new Barbie "can help get blindness out into society in a way that is accurate and attention-getting". On July 22, two new Barbies are being brought to life at Mattel: a blind Barbie and a Black Barbie with Down syndrome.

In January 2024, we (Target) introduced toy brand Gigglescape, a Target owned brand that brings discovery, play and imagination to the forefront for kids and their parents. Our newly imagined toy brand launched with adorable plush animals and spring-themed board books, and in July 2024 expanded to include preschool toys, puzzles and games. Gigglescape items will continue to roll out through 2024 and into early 2025.

GEPPI FAMILY ENTERPRISES LAUNCHES DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER PROGRAM Retailers Can Participate Via Affiliate Links. and receive 10% of the sale price, in Diamond account credit, for any qualifying purchases made through those links. FandomWorld handles all fulfillment, including customer service, returns, and exchanges.

Wizards of the Coast announced a Gen Con 2024 special edition of the Dungeons & Dragons: 2024 Player's Handbook, which will be on sale during the show at the Lucas Stadium Northwest Concourse from August 1-4, 2024. WotC will bring the first 3,000 copies of the 2024 Player's Handbook to Gen Con 2024 for collectors and fans to purchase.

This month, Imagination Playground is celebrating 15 years of innovation, and reflecting on the continued growth and success of the company mission to bring enriching, imaginative play to children everywhere. Made in Providence, Rhode Island; Imagination Playground has made its way to all 50 states, plus Puerto Rico, and over 70 countries across the globe.

IMC Toys, the brand known for its Cry Babies dolls, introduced the Be Loved Babies line at The Toy Insider’s event Sweet Suite Wednesday. Be Loved Babies feature a soft-skin fabrication, making the texture and soft articulation of the body key selling points for the dolls. There will be two dolls in the collection initially, Alex and Sam, each wearing onesies and matching headbands.

Moose Toys unveiled XOX Kweenie, the newest “crowning” achievement in collectibles. Notable for their elevated aesthetic and finishes like high gloss metallic or flocked, plus fun fills like liquid or rattling beads, these premium, weighted vinyl figurines are all about modern self-expression. With 26 dolls across two teams – Quirky and Fearless – there’s an XOX Kweenie for everyone, including the Kween of Cat Naps...

NSI International unleashes new SIREN line of foam dart blasters. NSI International, the maker of the at-home laser tag game LASER X, has reinvented the foam dart blaster with its new SIREN line of blasters. With a range of up to 200 feet and a speed of 220 feet per second (fps), these blasters take speed and accuracy to new heights for the toy category.

Games Workshop unveils 'Warcry: Briar and Bone': New Warband set. Games Workshop unveiled Warcry: Briar and Bone, a new warband set, which will hit preorder on July 27, 2024. The battle to protect the Gnarlwood continues in this new set. The set features two warbands: Teratic Cohorts adn the Twistweald.

New wave of 'D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures' incoming. WizKids will release a new wave of D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures packs into retail in January 2025. The new wave of unpainted miniatures features an array on monsters and characters that come primed and ready to paint. These miniatures, per usual, have deep cuts for easier painting.

Ghost dog haunts 'Pokemon TCG' with new 'Houndstone Ex Box'. The Pokemon Company International will release Houndstone Ex Box, for Pokemon TCG, which will hit retail on October 4, 2024. Houndstone may be a scary-looking ghost pup, but should a Trainer befriend them, they will have a loyal Pokemon to the end.

Looney Labs delays 'Looney Oracle' due to Panama Canal shipping issues; new estimated ship date. Looney Labs has announced the delay of the release of Looney Oracle, which was originally due July 25, 2024. Looney Oracle is a decision making toy that give players cryptic advice from a deck of cards.

WHP Global announces deal with NEXCOM to bring the magic of Toys"R"Us to military families. WHP Global, parent of Toys"R"Us announced today a license agreement with the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) to open Toys"R"Us shops within its NEX stores. Beginning this Fall, Toys"R"Us will launch at NEX Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA, followed by a second location at NEX Jacksonville, FL.

Ultra Pro will release 'Pokemon Trainer Guess: Unova Edition'. Ultra Pro will release Pokemon Trainer Guess: Unova Edition, a new edition of the electronic guessing game, into retail in September 2024. The Pokemon Guess line of games adds another product to its roster. Like the other electronic games, it utilizes speech recognition software to interact with trainers and deduce different Pokemon...

'Final Fantasy XIV TTRPG: Standard Rulebook' heads to retail: Contains Core Rules for the RPG. Square Enix will release Final Fantasy XIV TTRPG: Standard Rulebook, a new core rulebook, into retail on February 28, 2025. The new core rulebook is another addition to the Final Fantasy XIV TTRPG line that launched with a unique starter set.

Neopets hits 25th anniversary with a mission of revival. The virtual pet game and franchise Neopets is 25 years old this year, and it’s going through a reinvention inspired by its new owner and CEO Dominic Law. Neopets is showing up at San Diego Comic-Con from July 24 to July 28 to draw attention to the anniversary, which happens on November 15.

Pocket.watch launches an AI-powered custom merch platform. Pocket.watch has partnered with Chicago-based AI software company Vermillio to create a website where fans can make their own superhero character and then print it on products such as apparel, wallets, mugs, lunch boxes and water bottles.

'South Tigris' series continues with 'Inventors of the South Tigris’: New standalone game by Garphill Games. Renegade Game Studios will release Inventors of the South Tigris, a new standalone game from Garphill Games, into retail in October 2024. Inventors of the South Tigris is the newest game in the South Tigris series.

Sambro achieves ‘excellent’ ESG audit result. Sambro International has continued to invest in its ESG commitments, as it progresses yet more sustainable operations across the business. The global business has achieved ‘excellent’ status in key categories, including climate change, supply chain, human capital management and environmental footprint as part of its annual ESG audit and ratings report...

Brand new Yu-Gi-Oh! set The Infinite Forbidden is out now. Konami Digital Entertainment has announced the brand-new core booster set The Infinite Forbidden for the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG, out now in Europe and Oceania. One of the most highly anticipated sets of the year, The Infinite Forbidden returns the game to where it all began with a new strategy featuring the unstoppable Exodia.

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Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Burger King recently launched a new video game for its 70th birthday called Balloon Burst that gave members of the chain’s Royal Perks loyalty program an opportunity to enter a sweepstakes and earn points. Balloon Burst arrived just a month after the QSR offered the Cloud Float game for four weeks to promote its new Frozen Cotton Candy beverage. These examples reflect the key role games play in Burger King’s...

Hasbro’s earnings reveal ‘Monopoly Go!’ has made $3 billion in just over a year. ‘Monopoly Go!,’ the interactive app inspired by the classic board game, may be the most successful mobile video game launch of all time. On Hasbro’s second-quarter earnings call Thursday, the toymaker revealed that the mobile video game has grossed more than $3 billion in revenue since its launch on April 11, 2023. That makes Hasbro the...

Hasbro brings Monopoly full-circle with app-inspired Monopoly Go! Board Game. The new game is a physical version of the quick-play Monopoly mobile app. Capitalizing on the popularity of the mobile app Monopoly Go!, Hasbro and Scopely have introduced a tabletop Monopoly Go! board game. The Monopoly Go! board game is intended for kids eight and up, and two to four people can play at a time.

Entering the Digital Dojo: Jawares Game Studio presents ‘Cobra Kai: Karate Legends’ to Roblox. Jazwares’ renowned game studio collaborates with Sony Pictures Consumer Products to introduce Cobra Kai: Karate Legends to Roblox. Cobra Kai: Karate Legends features many gameplay elements inspired by the TV series. With this Roblox expansion, players can train to become the ultimate karate sensei.

Humble Games confirms layoffs amid 'restructuring', denies full shutdown. In a statement provided to Game Developer, Humble said its game publishing label is "undergoing restructuring" rather than fully shutting down. This restructure "involved much deliberation and careful thought, with the goal of ensuring the stability and support of our developers and ongoing projects."

Towers & Titans dev Rumble Games shut down in 'ruthless' pursuit of profits. Last week, mobile developer Rumble Games (or R Studios) closed its doors, laying off 36 people. According to senior web architect David Bethune, the hammer came down from parent company Forte. "This is [Forte's] second recent studio axing after Phoenix Labs got this treatment a few weeks ago," wrote Bethune.

Mattel, Outright Games bring Monster High to consoles and PC this Fall. Mattel, a global toy and family entertainment company, in collaboration with Outright Games, publisher of family-friendly interactive entertainment, has announced the first Monster High video game for the current generation of consoles – “Monster High: Skulltimate Secrets.”

Game Pass is finally getting its first Call of Duty later this week. It appears that finally, almost a year after completing its acquisition of Activision, Microsoft is adding a previously released Call of Duty game—2023's Modern Warfare III—to its Netflix-like subscription service. And you won’t have to wait long.

This might be one of the worst things Fortnite's ever done. Fortnite’s next crossover isn’t with a cool new movie or a beloved comic book franchise. No, instead Epic is adding Tesla’s silly and ugly Cybertruck to the F2P game in a move that might be one of the worst and cringiest things yet.

Highlighted Press Releases

SUPER BLANKYS® GIVE KIDS A WARM SNUGGLE AND INSPIRE THEM TO FEEL LIKE THE SUPERHEROES THEY ARE. Moon Sonder™ Has Designed a Delightful Combination of a Soft Comforting Hug and Fun Superhero Play In Wearable Blankets. Keego Harbor, MI (July 23, 2024) – “Cool Aunt” Karen Bonnici invented Super Blankys® homemade blankets with sleeves as gifts for her young nieces and nephew. She’s always been a homemade gift maker but the outsized reaction to these gifts helped her see she just might have the seed for a successful entrepreneurial idea.

Safety and Counterfeiting

Sustainable stuffies? New Pa. law lifts ban on recycled stuffing in plush toys. For decades, Pennsylvania law has forbidden recycled materials to be used in stuffed toys. Last month, that changed. “We were only able to use all new materials to stuffed toys with, basically polyester fibers,” said Francesco Curto, vice president of city-based Curto Toys.

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

PEOPLE OF PLAY ANNOUNCES REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE WORLD’S LARGEST AND LONGEST RUNNING TOY & GAME INVENTOR PITCH & INNOVATION CONFERENCE. POP is excited to announce the Welcome Keynote Speaker will be Sharon Price John, President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, on the board of directors at Jack in the Box, and Chair of the Toy Association Board of Directors.

A new look, exciting presentation formats and networking opportunities in a relaxed atmosphere is being promised by the Toy Business Forum in Nuremberg next year. For 20 years now, the programme has been designed to be the first port of call for retail expertise at the Spielwarenmesse. At its usual location in Hall 3A, from 28th January to 1st February 2025, trade visitors can expect...

The Spiel des Jahres jury has announced the winners of the 2024 awards for Game of the year, Children's Game of the Year, and Connoisseur Game of the Year. Sky Team, by Luc Remond, Scorpion Masque and published in the U.S. by Hachette Boardgames, has been awarded the Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year). The Kennerspiel des Jahres (Enthusiasts Game of the Year), the top game...

Walmart is hosting its virtual Collector Con this weekend as fans flock to Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) this week. The two-day event is packed with exclusives and other popular drops from the hottest toy companies, including Mattel, Hasbro, Jazwares, and more, each bringing licensed toys for Star Wars, Marvel, WWE, Stranger Things, and more.

Jared’s Epic Blaster Battle is back again, this year celebrating 10 years of partnership with Playview Brands. Jared’s Epic Blaster Battle is a foam-filled event for blaster enthusiasts and has previously earned the Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Toy Pistol Fight. The event has utilized a Playview Brands item, BUNKR BattleZones, for a decade to enhance the blaster experience.

UK Toy Fair embraces another year of strong re-booking. London Toy Fair has already sold out the entire ground floor and Gold Zone spaces for next year’s show, encouraging potential exhibitors to apply as soon as possible so not to miss out. Toy Fair, which will celebrate its 71st show in January 2025, has once again welcomed an extremely high returnee booking rate for next year’s event...

Brands Licensing Africa (BLA) is the first event dedicated to licensing and brand extension in Africa, organized by LA MAISON DE L'AFRIQUE in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Côte d'Ivoire and supported by Licensing International. LICENSING MAGAZINE is proud to be Media Partner of the first edition of this event.

Curious Hedgehog and Showpath Entertainment, under licence from Hasbro and its Wizards of the Coast division, have announced that the live theatrical production Dungeons & Dragons The Twenty-Sided Tavern will soon launch a national tour and a new block of tickets for the New York production at Stage 42 in New York City through April 2025. Tickets are on sale at thetwentysidedtavern.com.

Back to Hogwarts, the annual “Harry Potter” fan event, is set to return this year in a slightly new format. While in-person events will be taking place in select locations, Warner Bros. Discovery are discouraging fans from traveling to Kings Cross train station in London, where previous celebrations have taken place.

Skybound Entertainment’s new unscripted division has teamed up with NYs reality series powerhouse DIGA Studios to co-produce a new competition series that’s all about finding the next visionary animator à la Hayao Miyazaki. Project details are still few and far between, but the show will feature animators flexing their skills in challenges, and it could put some up-and-coming talent...

The most significant awards show for the U.S. animation industry – the Annie Awards – opened its call for entries today. ASIFA-Hollywood has set the date for next year’s event, its 52nd edition, on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at UCLA’s Royce Hall. The event is considering awards in 37 categories for animated productions that were released in the United States between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024.

AN INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL'S GUIDE TO SDCC 2024 PANELS. It's that time of the year again, folks. For those of you coming to San Diego to do business, network or keep abreast of trends in the industry, here's my annual trip through the voluminous San Diego Comic-Con International programming to highlight panels of particular interest for professionals, including business folk, creators, educators, librarians and lawyers.

NY-based TV network Great American Media has partnered with the owners of NHL hockey team the NY Islanders to create a Christmas event that will see the mediaco premiere kids films and offer family-friendly activities. The first-ever Great American Family Christmas Festival is set to run from Nov 20, 2024 to January 5, 2025 at UBS Arena —the Islanders’ home base that’s located just outside...

The Spring 2024 PAL Awards - Best Toys, Games and Media that Spark Language Development Through Play. Play On Words, led by highly respected speech-language pathologist Erika Cardamone, announces Spring 2024 PAL Award Winners, the toy industry's only recognition directed by a credentialed speech-language expert identifying the language learning edge in exceptional toys, games and media.

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

Sam Mowry, a voice actor for League of Legends and other games, passed away this weekend at 64 years old. Per Oregon Arts Watch, Mowry went into cardiac arrest while preparing for surgery to alleviate arterial blockage. In League, Mowry played the character of Rhaast. Other notable credits include Dota 2 (as the Anti-Mage), Sly 2: Band of Thieves (Arpeggio), Infamous (Kessler), and Amnesia: The Dark Descent (Alexander).

"For the voice of a Darkin, Sam was a bastion of light," wrote Riot. "It was an honor to work with him and he will live on as a part of Runeterra forever." Outside of games, Mowry performed in Portland theaters and in radio dramas. He co-founded the Willamette Radio Workshop in 2001 and performed in musical versions of Sherlock Holmes and The Jungle Book.

Jürgen Stöhr. died on 28th April 2024. H was a businessman and entrepreneur, was a mainstay of the German Toy & Games market for many years and invented the classic family game Kniffel.

The European Games market owes much to Jürgen and his family, who were the final owners of Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit. The company was initially founded 1907 by Jürgen’s grandfather, Josef Friedrich Schmidt, an entrepreneur and an inventor of games who was inspired by the antique predecessors of their modern-day counterparts. Josef invented some of Europe’s most popular board games under the Schmidt Spiel banner, including Mensch Ärgere Dich Nicht (Take It Easy), Ludo and Paschisi.

In 1970, Schmidt Spiel joined forces with board game company Franz Schmidt to create Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit. The company flourished thanks co-owner Jürgen’s experience in product development, sales and marketing. With Kniffel, which is often described as ‘poker with dice’, he created a massively successful product in the German game market which ultimately saw Schmidt Spiel & Freizeit become the second largest toy and game producer in the region. The company had subsidiaries in France, Austria and the Netherlands, while the the rest of Europe was under franchise agreement. Read More...

Rob Ramash - Tribute from Kim Carter: Today we are saddened to learn that our friend, and former business associate, Rob Romash died suddenly on June 9th. Rob was a larger than life talented individual.
Rob had a passion for flying toys as a kid and he extended this into his business career, building his business, Eclipse toys on the numerous flying toys he designed.
A native of New Jersey, Rob started out in toys with Larami, moved on to Tyco / Mattel (where he worked on Matchbox) and subsequently joined Estes Rockets before setting up Eclipse toys.
Beyond toys Rob was well known in model flying circles, was a talented artist, crafted wooden furniture and even designed his wife Nida’s wedding ring.

Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories

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Toy Trade Monthly Issues

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ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)

- Spiel des Jahres Winners Announced
- Steamforged Games Unveils 'Warmachine's' New Look
- heo Group Reveals New 'Magic: The Gathering' 'Bloomburrow' Accessories
- 'Disney Lorcana Gateway' Hits Target
- Hasbro Names New WotC President
- Rolling for Initiative -- New Boss, Same As the Old Boss
- 'Pokemon TCG' 'Charizard Ex Super-Premium Collection' Incoming
- Modiphius Brings 'Space: 1999' to the Tabletop
- Konami Reveals New 'Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG' Booster Set
- Wizards of the Coast Announces Gen Con 2024 'D&D: 2024 Player's Handbook'

Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)

Global Toy News

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The Toy Universe (Australia)

hobbyDB

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Video of the Week

Who Invented Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots? | Tim Walsh's Where's the Fun from? (with guest star Bruce Buffer)

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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

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