Toy & Game International Excellence Awards - the TAGIEs
October 20-27, 2023
Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
POP Week starts November 1st! There is still time to...
Pitch Your Ideas or Discover the Next Hot Toy/Game - there will be 250+ attendees at the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference. I guarantee there is no easier. more efficient and more effective pitching event in the world!
Get your TAGIE Tickets and Celebrate the Toy Industry Innovators - deadline tomorrow! Read our feature interview with Barry and Jason describing their creative process for the TAGIEs!
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Mary
POP Week is November 1st- 5th!
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Attend the Inventor Pitch and Innovation Conference, POP Roast, Toy Takedown
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Celebrate at the Toy & Game Innovation Excellence Awards - the TAGIEs
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The BLOOM REPORT is fantastic and it allows me to stay on top of all the breaking news in the Toy industry! - Wai Or, Longshore Ltd.
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People of the Week - Barry & Jason
How We Write an Awards Show
Barry Mclaughlin and Jason Lautenschleger of Barry & Jason Games and Entertainment were brought in to write this year’s TAGIE awards, and we thought we’d try an experiment: Let’s see just how in sync these two guys are! We asked them to each recount, separately, what the process was for writing the awards show. Do they share a brain? Or is one of them from Mars and the other Venus? Let’s find out! -Mary
Jason’s Memory:
When we were asked to help out with the TAGie Awards show, we were as honored as if we had been told that we won every single one of the TAGie Awards ourselves. So we acted as if we had done exactly that and celebrated for two weeks straight on the French Riviera--telling everyone we were Melissa & Doug and that they should just “put it on our tab.” That’s how we start writing all our awards shows.
The second thing we always try to do is put ourselves in the shoes and seats of everyone attending as we wonder aloud, “What would Rich Mazel want to see?” Pyrotechnics…feats of grace and strength…talented bears… READ MORE...
Barry’s Account:
When Mary asked if we would help write the TAGIEs, we immediately carb-loaded with 32 baked potatoes, stood up very slowly (so we didn’t pass out), bought all the pencils we could find, sharpened those pencils, counted the pencils over and over and over while calling ourselves The Pencil Kings, asked ourselves “Who has more pencils than the Pencil Kings??? No one!!”, took out a full-page ad in the Bloom Report challenging anyone to take us on in a Who’s Got More Pencils Competition, got no takers, reconsidered our approach, bought more pencils from a shady pencil dealer, asked ourselves “Why are we ruining our lives with all these pencils???”, and then decided to just sit at our computers and type up the script like normal human adults.
The meat and potatoes of the night (great Chicago reference!) are really the various speakers and the awards themselves. Everyone is there to see who takes home the hardware! But we were able to sneak in a handful of funny moments throughout the event, including a new video series called The Toys That Didn’t Make It. With Karri Bean as our host with the most, music from Skip Towne and the Greyhounds, and a fun new venue at Joe’s Live, this event is sure to be a hoot and a half! (Keep an eye out for that half-hoot, whoever spots it first gets an extra salad!) READ MORE...
Person of the Week: TOMY’s Nicoleta Becheanu
Traditions and Childhood Treasures
Thank you, Nicoleta, for taking time to share a bit about yourself with our readers!
What have you been working on at TOMY?
I’ve been working on some really cool toys that are just now hitting store shelves! There are new games out like Screwball Scramble Level Up and The Game of Saying Huh!?!, and, we just launched A Little Spot of Emotions social-emotional toy line inspired by Diane Alber’s book series that parents and educators alike really love. The new licensed Toomies bath toys and Grow with Peppa preschool toys are also lines I’m excited to see at retail.
I work on a wide range of toys from babies to young adults and honestly, that keeps me from ever being bored and makes my days fun!
You’ve worked closely with best-selling author, Diane Alber, and have become very educated on social-emotional learning? What strikes you as most impactful about Diane's A Little Spot creation?
How simple, yet relatable the Spots are! Kids understand the concept right away and it takes the burden away by saying “I have an anger Spot that is growing” vs. “I am angry”. We encounter various feelings and emotions every day and learning how to identify and manage them in a healthy way is important. All emotions are good and learning about them in a fun way will have a positive impact on the social-emotional well-being of young children as they learn to navigate the complexities of daily interactions.
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you, Alan Dorfman, for the funny cartoon this week!
Lexophile Lovers: "If you are being chased by a pack of taxidermists, do not play dead." Thank you, Jerry Cleary for sharing with our readers!
Memorable Quotes:
"A good game is like a good conversation: engaging, stimulating, and memorable." - Jane McGonigal, game designer and author.
“Fall seven times, get up eight.” ― Japanese Proverb
Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share with your colleagues? Send it to me! Mary
Financial and Legal
SAG-AFTRA has unanimously voted to approve a tentative deal with studio association AMPTP that it says is valued at more than US$1 billion. The agreement includes pay increases, protections against AI and a first-ever streaming participation bonus. It’s also raising pension and health benefit caps and increasing the pay scale for background actors. SAG-AFTRA will share full contract details after the union’s...
***The above posted after November 3rd***
Publisher Scholastic Backtracks on Isolating Works on Race and Gender. The company was faulted for the practice, which it said was an effort to help schools navigate new laws restricting books about racism and L.G.B.T.Q. identities. Among the books included on the list were biographies of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson of the Supreme Court and the civil rights activist and congressman John Lewis; a novel about a Lakota girl...
U.S. video game content spending increases as ‘Starfield’ leads new releases. Total U.S. consumer spending on video game content, hardware, and accessories grew 10% in September 2023 when compared to a year ago, totaling $4.5 billion, Circana reports. Double-digit percentage growth in spending on video game content (13%) and accessories (11%) offset an 8% decline in hardware sales.
International police take down Capcom hackers. A hacker gang that breached various high-profile companies like computer component manufacturer ADATA and video game publisher Capcom within the last several years has been arrested by an international police force, according to law enforcement agency Europol. An October 20 report by the government agency states that the ransomware group known...
Instagram sued over harm to young people's mental health. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has been accused of misleading the public about the risks of using social media and contributing to a mental health crisis among youth. The claims were made in a federal lawsuit, which was announced by dozens of US states.
Valve wants Steam developers to submit new pricing for Argentina and Turkey. Valve is changing the currency used for Steam sales in Argentina and Turkey to USD on November 20, 2023, due to "exchange rate volatility" in those regions. The move means developers selling titles on Steam in either country will need to add USD pricing for their projects in the new LATAM-USD and MENA-USD pricing section of Steamworks'
Disney poised to sell its business in India to Reliance. Mumbai-based multinational conglom Reliance Industries is gearing up to buy a majority stake in Disney’s operations in India. According to a new Bloomberg report, the Mukesh Ambani-led company has assessed the related assets at between US$7 billion and US$8 billion. This would peg the total value of Disney India at around US$10 billion.
Diverse Companies acquires On the Road Reps, DGA Trendsetters. Diverse Companies, a synergistic collective, has recently acquired On the Road Reps and DGA Trendsetters. On the Road Reps has sales representatives for companies from Connecticut to Delaware, including mid-tier shops in card and gift, toy, souvenir, attractions and resorts, pharmacies, and more.
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Visit the York-Jersey Underwriters website at www.toy-insurance.com
Financial Reporting
Disney released its Q4 and full-year earnings reports yesterday, and the fiscal picture looks positive. Total annual revenue for 2023 was up by 7% to US$88.9 billion, driven largely by growth in the company’s entertainment and experiences businesses.
Sony profit slumps 29% on chip weakness but maintains 25 million unit PlayStation 5 target
***The above posted after November 3rd***
Hasbro reported a 10% dip in revenue to $1.5 billion in Q3. Compared to the same period last year, its Consumer Products division (including toys) slid 18% while Entertainment revenue declined by 42%. The losses were offset by strong growth in Wizards of the Coast and Digital Gaming where revenue spiked 40% in Q3 driven by the licensing success of Baldur’s Gate III and Monopoly Go!, which Hasbro says contributed $63 million in incremental revenue to the bottom line.
Mattel Q3 Earnings: Barbie, Hot Wheels Drive 9% Sales Spike... in net sales to $1.92 billion alongside gains in gross margin and operating income. Classic categories, including dolls and vehicles moved the needle back in the right direction amid a challenging year for Mattel and the rest of the toy industry. Additionally, the co. repurchased $60 million in its own shares and raised its 2023 guidance for adjusted gross margin, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted earnings-per-share (EPS).
Microsoft CEO's compensation no longer tied to Game Pass growth. Xbox Game Pass has missed its projected growth target for the third year in a row, and Satya Nadella's compensation is no longer linked to its performance. Revenue growth for Xbox content and services was included as a component of Nadella's pay in 2021 and 2022, and in both instances, failed to meet their intended targets. The same holds true for 2023: Game Pass was projected to grow by 4.4 percent this year, but in reality saw growth of 0.7 percent.
Potential industry slowdown in toy sales weighs on shares of Hasbro and Mattel. Hasbro's third-quarter revenue performance missed Wall Street's expectations and the company cut its full-year revenue outlook again as signs of a possible industry slowdown in toy sales heading into the holiday season weighs on jittery investors
Reality Labs has lost $11.4 billion during 2023 (and there's still one quarter left). Meta lost $3.7 billion during the last quarter attempting to birth the metaverse within its Reality Labs division.
Trends, Lists, Market Research, and State of the Industry
TOP 20 GRAPHIC NOVELS - OCTOBER 2023
OCTOBER 2023 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN - TOP 20 ADULT GRAPHIC NOVELS
OCTOBER 2023 CIRCANA BOOKSCAN - TOP 20 KIDS GRAPHIC NOVELS
***The above posted after October 27th***
‘The Marvels’ Tracking for $75M-$80M Domestic Debut in Latest Test of Box Office Superhero Fatigue. The sequel looks to come in notably behind the $153.4 million launch of 'Captain Marvel' in 2019.
Tractor Supply unveils Top Gift picks.
Game reveals the toys on its Holiday Hits list.
Home video landscape transforming as large retailers cut the category.
French dev study shows optimism amid industry shifts.
REPORT: US teens are craving more “nomance” content
Stories, Comments, and Advice
John Baulch, Toy World - Giving it all away …it’s the Friday Blog! Q4. The Golden Quarter. Silly Season. Yes, it’s that time of the year when the whole toy community is pumped and primed to reap the rewards from the seeds sewn across the first nine months of the year. It’s also a time when emotions run high, and elation can turn to frustration in a heartbeat – and vice versa.
Steeve Reece, Toy Industry Journal - BOARD GAME MANUFACTURING: TRENDS, TRIVIA & TOP TIPS. WHY IS THERE MORE BOARD GAMES CAPACITY IN ‘NEAR SHORE’ OR DOMESTIC LOCATIONS VERSUS TOY MANUFACTURING CAPACITY? Games manufacturing is much more easily automated versus Toy production and therefore the labour cost element for Games production is much lower.
Canadian toymaker Ronnen Harary is helping Israeli kids, soldiers and hospitals. Ronnen Harary and his university friends founded the toy and entertainment company Spin Master in 1994, launching with Earth Buddies and later the wildly successful Air Hogs toys. Today, it’s their Paw Patrol characters and Gund stuffed animals that are globally famous.
Tapping into the licensing power of gaming. Executives from Microsoft, SEGA of America, Toikido and PhatMojo discuss their strategies for adapting video game IPs into booming consumer product lines for retailers. The success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie is spurring the industry to get in the game with video game adaptations.
How toy and game companies are winning back their grown-up former customers. I was on vacation and hanging out quietly in the hotel room with my friend when, out of nowhere, she screamed “Zoo Pals are back!” We immediately tried to buy some. But to our misfortune, they were sold out. For days we refreshed the page to see if they were back in stock. Sure enough, I got my Zoo Pals a few weeks later.
As striking actors enter spooky season, SAG-AFTRA released guidelines for members looking to “celebrate Halloween this year while also staying in solidarity” with the strike. That means union members can hang up their “Oppenheimer” porkpie hats and put away their “Barbie” pink.
“Choose costumes inspired by generalized characters and figures (ghost, zombie, spider, etc.),” the actors union recommended in a website...
Hasbro and Play-Doh released a study on the value of imagination. Hasbro and Play-Doh have released a new consumer study that investigates the impact of imagination. Through a team of experts, as well as conversations with 9,000 parents and children, the study Imagination is a Superpower reveals the value of imagination in society, what barriers inhibit imagination, and discusses why imagination...
Kids are attending pro-Palestinian protests in this popular game. In the midst of the ongoing escalation between Israel and Palestine, gamers who can’t attend protests in real life are turning to digital spaces to show their support for those suffering as a result of the conflict. The latest venue? The ultra-popular tween hit Roblox. On October 23, an X (formerly Twitter) user shared a post that read “y’all my cousin is 15...
Make it Real sets up initiative to support children of all faiths across Israel. Make It Real is distributing toys to children across the country and is looking for additional donations from companies with stock in the UK or Israel to bolster its efforts in the region. In partnership with a number of non-profit organizations, US-based toy company Make it Real has opened up a warehouse outside of Tel Aviv to distribute toys...
Holiday-themed game gifts for retailers to consider for the 2023 Shopping Season. There were quite a few spicy holiday game selections announced this year. The trend of game publishers gravitating towards releasing seasonal games is a continuing theme from 2022. This year, there were quite a few more game holiday-themed game products entering the market ahead of the season.
Ex-PlayStation boss has a warning for the game industry. Shawn Layden has been out of PlayStation for four years now, but retirement hasn’t stopped him from weighing in on larger trends in gaming. Long worried about ballooning blockbuster development budgets, the former CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment America has added studio consolidation and the state of game preservation to his warnings...
Tapping into the licensing power of gaming. The success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie is spurring the industry to get in the game with video game adaptations. This week, we’re publishing stories from our October/November magazine issue that dive into the lucrative-if-done-right art of turning video games into films and series. In today’s feature, toycos unbox the growing potential of vidgame adaptations at retail.
The 23 most rare and expensive Pokémon cards. Have you got any rare Pokémon cards hidden in your collection? Wondering if that shiny Charizard or promo card stashed up in the attic or down in the basement is valuable? You’re in the right place, as we’ve rounded up a definitive list of the most expensive Pokémon cards of all time - along with how much they’re worth, what makes them so valuable and when they last...
Opinion: Toy Fair thoughts and the physical/digital connection. Dubit data shows that the same play patterns drawing kids to physical products are also what they like about digital experiences, and kidcos should lean into the overlap, says David Kleeman. I’ve been going to the New York Toy Fair for more than 10 years.
Mood swing: Global producers in US hunt for China alternatives. Iowa-based Vermeer, a 4,000-employee maker of industrial and farm machinery, opened a plant there two decades ago—and Andringa, the company’s president and CEO, frequently visited what many considered the world’s premier fast-growing, future-oriented economy. But the mood of Vermeer and many other global producers has turned sour on China.
$20 and under stocking stuffers: Inexpensive gifts for Holiday retail inventory. Around Christmas time, shoppers often seek last minute, inexpensive gifts for white elephant events, office parties, or just simply to stuff kids' stockings. Retailers usually benefit from investing some time into curating gift items with these price points, as they often lead to impulse buys and quick sales.
Alan Wake 2: How one of gaming's lost sequels finally got made. "It's been a great year to be a gamer." This year has seen one of the strongest videogame line-ups in quite some time. But what if you're a game maker about to release your most personal, ambitious project yet into the world? Sam Lake, creative director at Remedy Entertainment, says it's a "thrilling" time but also a nervous one.
History and Nostalgia
Picture Maker from Mattel (1970). In 1970, Mattel released the Picture Maker series of drawing sets featuring patterned stencils that allowed children to create illustrations based on popular brands and licensed cartoon characters. The tools of the Picture Maker trade included a plastic drawing board that incorporated a frame and magnet to hold a standard 8 ½-inch x 11-inch piece of paper in place...
Comic Games from Mattel (1971). In 1971, Mattel introduced Comic Games, a series that combined card games for two to four players with eye-catching blister packaging styled after comic books. Geared to children ages 6 to 12, each game was housed in a plastic carry case and included an instruction card as part of the standard playing deck.
Licensing and Entertainment
Spin Master and Candle Media’s Moonbug have inked a deal for a strategic global alliance spanning kids’ content, products, and experiences. The new agreement taps into the capabilities of both cos. with a focus on growing the intellectual property in their portfolios through a mix of licensing, production, and media placements. Under the deal, Spin Master will take the lead as global master toy licensee for...
Guess Joy is hard at work for Pixar fans, because “Inside Out 2” has just dropped its first trailer. “Inside Out 2” is the sequel to 2015’s animated coming-of-age film “Inside Out.” The first film centered on 11-year-old Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) and the five emotions in her brain, led by a star-studded cast: Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), Fear (Bill Hader) and Anger (Lewis Black). In the sequel...
The Ghostbusters are back with an icy new mission. The first teaser trailer for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire debuted on Wednesday, seeing the return of Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace and Finn Wolfhard from 2021's Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Original stars Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson and Annie Potts are also teased as returning in the first glimpse. The cast also includes Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt,...
***The above posted after November 3***
Hasbro has renewed its long-standing partnership with Takara Tomy, T-Licensing and ADK Emotions NY to launch Beyblade X, the next generation of Beyblade products. Following a July debut in Japan, these much-anticipated Generation 4 products will expand the global launch in autumn 2024, coinciding with the brand’s 25th anniversary. New Beyblade X introduces a new spin on the toy line, commemorating...
LEGO adds ‘Dune’ to licensed lineup for 2024. Some of LEGO’s most popular products are its licensed building sets. From Marvel to Star Wars, to The Lord of the Rings, these sets feature iconic characters, scenes, and settings from several franchises. Now, LEGO is adding Dune to its lineup. The LEGO Dune Atreides Royal Ornithopter features almost 1,400 pieces that come together to create the giant, dragonfly-like...
Sesame Street joins Jay At Play’s Happy Nappers lineup in 2024. Jay At Play discovered how to get to Sesame Street.The company inked a licensing deal with Sesame Workshop for the evergreen Sesame Street brand under which it will develop, market, and sell a wide range of products set to launch in fall 2024. The Sesame Street Happy Nappers collection is set to include Sleeping Bags, Blanket Wraps, Pillow Blankers...
Crayola, Spalding team up for colorful basketballs. The outdoor and indoor activities of our childhoods are combined. Crayola and basketball brand Spalding are joining forces in a new licensing pact to make colorful basketballs and other outdoor accessories. Spalding will officially launch the partnership with Crayola with “Doodles to Dribbles,” a design-your-own-basketball activation.
Nelvana along with the Clifford Ross Company and Spanish fashion brand The Animals Observatory, announce the launch of a premium line of Babar apparel for kids, available internationally in stores and online. The Babar capsule collection features vintage artwork designs of the iconic elephant on fashion-forward tops, pants, dresses, accessories and more.
TheSoul Publishing, a global leader in digital content creation, announces a strategic partnership with E Mishan & Sons, Inc (Emson), a family-owned business renowned for investing in, importing, and distributing innovative products. This collaboration introduces a new line of DIY craft kits, based on TheSoul Publishing’s wildly popular 5-Minute Crafts brand, now available on Walmart.com and...
Just Play unveils toys inspired by Disney’s ‘Wish’. With just a month left until it hits theaters, toy makers are all in on Disney’s Wish toys. Just Play just launched its collection of toys featuring Asha and other characters from the movie. The highlight of Just Play’s Wish collection is the latest series of Disney Doorables. The Disney Doorables Wish Collector Pack features nine exclusive 1.5-inch figures inspired by the movie...
University Games’ party game celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Rocky Horror Show. It’s just a jump to the left… and a step to the right… to grab a copy of University Games‘ new Rocky Horror Show Game. The experiential new party game hits store shelves this year in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the cult-classic show. Players choose a favorite character and try to escape the castle to win the game.
Hasbro extends Marvel partnership through Wizards of the Coast’s Magic: The Gathering. Wizards of the Coast’s ever-popular trading card game Magic: The Gathering has already seen the successful launch of a number of licensed collaborations, with Doctor Who Commander decks, a full Lord of the Rings set, and more. Now, the Hasbro-owned company is partnering with Marvel for a new series of sets in...
McFarlane Toys unveils licensed dragons figures inspired by Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings. McFarlane Toys is well-known in the industry for its detailed action figures and statues across a variety of brands, including anime, sports, Disney, and more. The company’s dragon series has previously featured a number of fantastical dragon figures, but will now showcase two licensed dragons from iconic fantasy franchises.
Fantasy Flight Games to release Star Wars: Unlimited TGC. Asmodee subsidiary Fantasy Flight Games, in partnership with Lucasfilm, has announced the upcoming release of Star Wars: Unlimited, an all-new trading card game. This game features iconic heroes, villains, ships and settings from all facets of the legendary Star Wars franchise, including movies, TV series, comics, video games and everything in between.
IMC Toys’ Kitoons debuts as a third-party content distributor for kids. IMC Toys, a toy and entertainment company, has announced its shift in content strategy. Kitoons, the umbrella brand that encompasses all of IMC Toys’ entertainment, will launch as a distributor of third-party content, transforming its platforms and channels, including YouTube, OTT and social media, into outlets for recently acquired high-quality...
Kitoons launches ‘Molang’ on YouTube and social media. IMC Toys’ entertainment brand, Kitoons, is launching as a distributor of educational content from different brands for YouTube and other social media platforms. Kitoons has inked an agreement with the French company Millimages for more than eight series, including Molang.
BBC Studios launches ‘Bluey’ official toys in South Korea. BBC Studios has launched the first official global character toys for the animated series “Bluey” in South Korea in partnership with the official distributor for South Korea ‘Sonokong.’ Following the launch of the six “Bluey” toys, BBC Studios plans to strengthen “Bluey’s” presence in South Korea with a range of play and educational content, including...
Skybound Tabletop unleashes new 'Invincible' game. Skybound Tabletop unleashed Invincible: Escape From Mars, a new board game, which will hit retail in February 2024. In this game, based on the hit Amazon series (see "'Invincible' S2"), players assume the roles of the Guardians of the Globe or astronauts who are trying to escape Mars without bringing home a Sequid parasite, which could potentially destroy the world.
KiwiCo launches new ‘Innovators of Awesome’ game show. KiwiCo, known for its subscription-based art and science kits across numerous age groups, is launching a new mini-series aiming to get kids inspired to innovate. Innovators of Awesome is a four-part game show in which three young builders try their best to recreate larger versions of beloved KiwiCo products.
Lego Icons Dune Atreides Royal Ornithopter launches. The Lego Icons Dune Atreides Royal Ornithopter has functional blades, foldable landing gear and comes with eight Lego Minifigures of key characters. The Lego Group has announced its first ever build experience from the Dune universe, from Legendary Entertainment based on Denis Villeneuve’s film adaptation of Frank Herbert’s masterpiece...
Cloudco Entertainment, Snow Commerce partner for Care Bears online store. Care Bears are going direct-to-consumer! Cloudco Entertainment, owner of the longstanding Care Bears brand, has partnered up with Snow Commerce for the launch of a new web store. From its start as characters found on greeting cards to its first appearance in an animated TV special in the ’80s...
Thunderbird to distribute and manage consumer products for BooSnoo! Vancouver’s Thunderbird Distribution has acquired consumer product rights to BooSnoo! and will also sell the British series internationally outside the UK. Tailored with neurodiverse audiences in mind, BooSnoo! features ASMR, repetition and calming music.
People of Play
Funrise, Inc is pleased to announce that Kelly Woon, VP of North America Sales will be inducted into the Canadian Toy Association (CTA) Hall of Fame for her outstanding contribution and lasting impact on the toy industry. Kelly's passion about building teams with an entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to strong retail partnerships has played a key role in her 2-year tenure as a member of the Canadian Toy Association Board...
National Parenting Product Awards: Meet: Mary Couzin, Inventor of People at Play and the Chicago Toy & Game Fair. 1. Please tell us a little about your career path and how you ended up in the toy industry? I’d worked in many different industries before finding the toy industry – my tribe. A friend was working at Western Publishing (later purchased by Hasbro). He would share stories about toy and game inventors...
***The above was posted after October27th***
ICV2 INTERVIEW: ASMODEE USA GENERAL MANAGER JULIEN SHARP. The first question is asking if you could share with our readers Asmodee's view of the big picture: how is the overall games market performing in 2023? Julien Sharp: Right now, Hobby seems to be doing quite well; it's very stable for us. We're pretty happy with how things are going there. That is our really important channel for Asmodee historically and currently
On most days, Ray Adler, the global head of games for Mattel, carries a deck of UNO cards in his pocket, just in case someone might be up for a friendly round. The nice thing about the game, he said in an interview, is that it transcends language barriers and is familiar to just about everyone. Sitting down to a spontaneous game is a great way to break the ice.
Exploding Kittens founder on his board game philosophy. What if the goal of a board game wasn’t entertainment? What if, instead, it was about making the people around you entertaining? That is the mission Exploding Kittens Inc. has been on since it was founded in 2015. Elan Lee is leading the charge. The co-founder and CEO of the game maker is an experienced game designer who spent time at Microsoft and Xbox before...
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is restructuring its Global Brands, Franchises and Experiences (GBFE) division as president Pam Lifford steps down. Lifford oversaw the management and development of franchise strategies for WBD brands, DC and themed entertainment. She joined Warner Bros. as president of consumer products in 2016, and before that held jobs at Disney and Quiksilver. Lifford is leaving...
Joe Barron, Mary Couzin, Dan Facchini - The Chicago Toy & Game Fair and the importance of play with Innovation DuPage. Managing Director of Innovation DuPage Dan Facchini joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to talk about how they are helping small businesses and entrepreneurs accomplish their goals. Dan talks about their member meet-ups where they provide resources and networking opportunities for...
Falcon’s Beyond is proud to announce it has named Bruce A Brown as Executive Vice President of Legal, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, reporting to the Company’s President Simon Philips. With more than 20 years of legal expertise, Brown will strategically advise and oversee legal, compliance, enterprise risk management, and government relations for Falcon’s Beyond. Brown will also serve as a key advisor...
The Toy Book caught up with Luki Lab’s President and CEO Didier Pietri to talk about the company’s new moves and the importance of specialty retail. The Toy Book: Let’s start by talking about this past year. What successes did Luki Lab see? Didier Pietri: 2023 has been a phenomenal year for Luki Lab! We are excited to launch five completely new and innovative brands at Toy Fair — across a variety of toy and ..
Marvin’s Magic appoints first global head of demonstration. As Marvin’s Magic approaches it’s 36th anniversary, the company has appointed Sacha Johnstone to the newly created role of global head of demonstration. Sacha first began working with Marvin’s Magic as a teenager, completing a two-week work experience placement in Hamleys, Regent Street.
PMI Kids’ World welcomes Mark Kingston in advisory role. Mark Kingston will work with the company as lead of Licensing and Business Development to help further develop PMI’s growing catalogue of licences. PMI Kids’ World, a company which is already brimming with collectibles from some of the hottest brands, has announced the appointment of Mark Kingston as the new lead of Licensing and Business...
Alessandra Dematteis joins DeAPlaneta Entertainment as head of media sales of kids & family division in Italy. DeAPlaneta Entertainment is pleased to announce that Alessandra Dematteis has joined as Head of Media Sales for the company’s Kids & Family division in Italy, where she will also oversee operations in Greece, Turkey and Asia. Alessandra Dematteis has extensive experience in the production...
Enchanted Moments appoints Cindy Persing as the director of special projects, B2B sales, and rep development. Enchanted Moments, a sales agency for toys, trends, and gifts, welcomes Cindy Persing to the team. Persing will serve as the Director of Special Projects, B2B Sales, and Rep Development. She has over three decades of experience in the industry, with recent roles in sales, management, support...
Warner Bros. Discovery sets new leadership for global consumer products and franchises. Bruce Campbell, Chief Revenue and Strategy Officer of Warner Bros. Discovery, announced a new global structure for Global Brands, Franchises, and Experiences (GBFE), the division that comprises WBD’s worldwide consumer products, themed entertainment, franchise management and development, and DC Comics businesses.
Companies and Brands
Radio Flyer is banking on bricks-and-mortar in Schaumburg, where the little red wagon maker will open the first retail location in its 106-year history. Radio Flyer will sell stroller wagons, tricycles, scooters, go-karts and bikes from the 15,000-square-foot location on the first floor of Woodfield Mall, which is set to open Friday. The store will also feature a racetrack and a bike shop where shoppers can test ride products.
***The above posted after November 3rd***
Ultra PRO Introduces the Stackable and Waterproof Black Box™ Deck Box® Made With Highly Durable, Crush-Resistant Material. he Black Box™ Deck Box® is a stackable, waterproof container that can hold up to 100 double-sleeved standard size collectible trading cards. This newest addition to Ultra PRO's extensive array of protective accessories made for card collecting adds the ultimate element of security for...
Moose unleashes Beast Lab on Roblox. Moose Toys has unveiled an innovative Roblox game integration to amplify the launch of Beast Lab by merging real-world and metaverse play. Beast Lab, a first-of-its-kind interactive playset, engages kids in an experiment-based process to create their own beast: a shark or reptile-inspired electronic action figure.
Crayola plans launch of family attraction location in Beijing, China. Crayola is going global! The Crayola Experience is already successfully operating across a number of locations within the U.S., but now the entertainment offering is expanding internationally. In association with Max-Matching Entertainments, Crayola is laying the groundwork for the Crayola Experience to come to Beijing’s Top Park...
Miniso opens first-ever Sanrio-themed IP store in Indonesia. Miniso has launched its first Sanrio-themed flagship store. The store, which opened on Oct. 21 at Margo City Store in Indonesia, features Sanrio characters as the brand’s first of its kind anywhere in the world. This development underscores Miniso’s commitment to the brand’s upgrade in Indonesia.
Games Workshop announces six 'Warhammer 40,000' boxed sets coming for the Holidays. Games Workshop announced six Warhammer 40,000 boxed sets, which will be hitting preorder soon. Games Workshop continues its yearly tradition of dropping new Battleforces before the holidays (see "Games Workshop Unleashes Eight"). The six new boxed sets feature an array of factions with desirable miniatures.
Zuru opens new flagship LA campus. Three new buildings on the Zuru campus in LA now house key departments including tech development, product design and a state-of-the-art showroom. Zuru continues its long-term growth plans with the opening of a new flagship campus in El Segundo, LA. The expansion comes following a year of milestones and successful UK launches including...
Hess Toy Truck rolls on following Hess Corp. sale to Chevron. A holiday tradition is set to continue despite the winds of change. This week, Chevron entered into an agreement to acquire Hess Corp. in a $53 billion deal. While oil industry mega-mergers fall outside the business of play, members of the toy industry were joined by families across the U.S. in asking the serious question: What about the Hess Toy Truck?
Norton PR to become part of new agency group. Norton PR is set to become part of a new multi-disciplined communications agency group headed up by successful entrepreneur, Stephen Fourie. After over thirty years of delivering some the most successful and iconic communications campaigns in the toy industry, from the famous Blue Peter ‘Make a Thunderbirds Tracy Island’ through to persuading Google...
Games Workshop unleashes new 'Warhammer Age of Sigmar' battletome. Games Workshop unleashed Cities of Sigmar, a new battletome for Warhammer Age of Sigmar, and 11 model kits onto preorder. The new battletome offers details on how the regular people of the Mortal Realms wage war. It contains the history and background of the Cities of Sigmar as well as all the rules needed to play this faction.
Weebs of the Shore reveal next 'Grand Archive' set. Weebs of the Shore revealed Alchemical Revolution, a new booster set for Grand Archive, which will hit stores on January 24, 2024. The Alchemical Revolution standard set adds three new classes to the mix: Guardian, Cleric, and Ranger. It also introduces the new advanced elements of Neos, Astra, and Umbra, which allow players to construct new deck strategies.
Jelly Bean-inspired toy collections. These new Jelly Belly toys have been created by the Incredible Group as a series of jellybean-inspired items perfect for avid fans of all ages to pick up and collect. The products feature jellybean-shaped toys that are squishy, collectible and scented to make them the perfect option for consumers aged six and up to collect.
Miniland partners with National Down Syndrome Society to raise awareness. Miniland has partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month this month. The company is known for its inclusivity-focused dolls, including its dolls with Down syndrome. Miniland has partnered with the NDSS previously for sponsorship of the annual NYC Buddy Walk...
Far Out Toys launches Squadz Place Tokyo Trends dolls. Far Out Toys has launched a new line of dolls with fashion inspired by Tokyo streetwear, currently available at Target. The company is already known for its previous doll line Glo-Up Girls, with dolls featuring makeup and color-changing nails. Now, Far Out Toys is jumping on the surprise box trend with Squadz Place Tokyo Trends...
'Fluxx' heads to the great outdoors with 'Camping Fluxx'. Looney Labs will release Camping Fluxx, a new edition of the classic card game, which will hit retail on February 2, 2024. Camping Fluxx is Looney Labs' first release of 2024. The new Fluxx variant adds two Creepers (Rain and Mosquitoes) and a camping supply of Keepers to the mix.
Mattel partners with Abrams, IDW for 'Monster High' novels and comics. IDW Publishing and Abrams Books will publish new comics based on Mattel’s Monster High franchise, including middle-grade and YA novel series from Abrams and a 10-issue comic series from IDW. IDW will launch Monster High: New Scaremester on Free Comic Book Day 2024 with a 32-page comic that will feature a new story plus a preview...
Bozo the Clown signs Firefly as exclusive North American licensing agency. Firefly Brand Management has signed with David and Christina Arquette’s company Send In The Bozos to be the exclusive North American licensing agency for Bozo the Clown. David Arquette purchased the rights to Bozo in 2021 from Larry Harmon Pictures based on a personal passion and his desire to keep the legacy of the character alive.
Every card revealed for Magic: The Gathering's Jurassic World crossover. Lots of Magic: The Gathering's worlds can be described in one or two words. Innistrad? Horror. New Capenna? Mobsters. For Ixalan, that word is "Dinosaurs", and for our return to the world in The Lost Caverns of Ixalan, Wizards is teaming up with Jurassic World for a whole host of new, Dinsoaur-themed cards.
Fart Face Fugglers blow into The Entertainer. The Entertainer has revealed an all-new variation of Fuggler that trumps the originals, as Fart Face Fugglers hits the shelves in time for a flatulent festive season. Fart FaceExclusively launched at The Entertainer, the latest Fuggler variation range, Fart Face, offers a ‘fart-tastic’ take on the quirky monsters beloved for their contagious mischief, funny-ugly looks and unique...
GraviTrax Starter-Set Bounce gets things rolling. Ravensburger’s GraviTrax Starter-Set Bounce helps kids learn through play and teaches about gravity, magnetism and kinetic energy. Ravensburger has announced the launch of its new marble run, GraviTrax Starter-Set Bounce, which it describes as the ultimate gift for children who love to build through play.
Kids can get everything they need to start a lemonade stand in New Me & the Bees Kit. Build a business thanks to the tried and true recipes of Me & the Bees! Fashion Angels has a whole pile of crafty activities for kids, but it also has kits offering everything kids need to start their own little businesses. The new It’s My Biz! Lemonade stand kit was made in collaboration with Me & the Bees, a company...
Asmodee makes Southern Hobby 'Star Wars Unlimited TCG' sub-distributor. Asmodee USA has signed Southern Hobby Disribution as a sub-distributor for Fantasy Flight Games’ Star Wars Unlimited TCG, bypassing ACD Distribution, its sub-distributor for all other products, the company announced. ACD has been Asmodee’s only hobby channel sub-distributor (except for a time when Asmodee was distributing...
Board & Dice launching 'Side Quest' line. Board & Dice is starting a new line of puzzle games called Side Quest, with the first two titles built on licenses from major tabletop games: Side Quest: 7th Sea and Side Quest: Nemesis, both releasing November 3. Created by Jakub Caban and Bartosz Idzikowski, authors of the Escape Tales series, the Side Quest games combine themes and concepts from popular...
Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development
Super Mario Bros. Wonder Is the Face of Nintendo’s Transformation. On the heels of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the new Mario game sets up Nintendo’s future as more than a video game company. NINTENDO IS HAVING a very good year. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was a record-breaking success; Switch sales continue to climb even in the console’s sixth year. In Feb., the company opened Super Nintendo ...
Spider-Man 2 fastest-selling game made by PlayStation. Sony has announced its latest Spider-Man release is the fastest-selling video game made by PlayStation. Spider-Man 2 sold more than 2.5 million physical and digital copies in its first 24 hours, it said in a blog post. The game, developed by PlayStation-owned Insomniac Games, has won rave reviews since it was released on Friday for the PS5.
Report: Unity's Runtime Fee quietly gave large devs exemptions in launch rush. It's been over a month since Unity introduced its controversial Runtime Fee policy. Though it was eventually changed after intense backlash from developers across the game industry, a new report from MobileGamer seemingly shows the engine maker's true intentions with the policy.
Lords of the Fallen crosses 1 million sales in 10 days. Lords of the Fallen has crossed 1 million sales in 10 days, according to publisher CI Games. The title launched on October 13, 2023, for PC and console platforms including Xbox Series X | S and PlayStation 5. The dark fantasy action-RPG was developed by CI Games' internal studio Hexworks and features a unique dual-realm mechanic that lets players flit..
Mario v Sonic: Rivals launch similar games in same week. What's better, Mario or Sonic? People of a certain age will remember growing up with this debate dominating conversations at school in the '90s. Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog led the gaming charts back then, and ultimately became two of the most recognizable faces in the industry, spanning countless spin-offs and even recent feature films.
Safety and Counterfeiting
Fisher-Price is recalling about 21,000 units of some of their popular Thomas & Friends toys. Parents and customers are being advised to stop using Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway Troublesome Truck & Crates and Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway Troublesome Truck & Paint toys because a small magnet encased in a plastic piece that can connect the toys to additional train toy pieces "can detach or become loose...
Fisher-Price recalls Thomas & Friends Troublesome Trucks. Fisher-Price has put out a recall for two of its Thomas & Friends trains. The recall is for Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway Troublesome Truck & Crates and Troublesome Truck & Paint. The Troublesome Truck & Crates is a black-and-gray train car with brown crates while the Troublesome Truck & Paint is a black-and-gray train car with gray paint cans...
Associations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals
Palos 118 Students Win at 2023 Young Inventor Challenge. Students from Palos East and West Elementaries participated in the event on November 4th and 5th in Chicago. Students from Palos East and West Elementaries participated in the event on November 4th and 5th in Chicago. The program gives students ages 6 to18 an opportunity to develop and pitch their original inventions to toy and game companies...
Newsweek - The Young Inventor Challenge: Illuminating the STEM Brilliance of Tomorrow's Toy Architects If you're in the market for other STEM events that mirror the enriching experience of the YIC, identifying the hallmarks of a compelling educational contest is key. Leading People of Play (POP), formerly known as The Chicago Toy & Game Group (CHITAG), Mary, in concert with a dedicated team she acknowledges as instrumental to...
***The above posted after November 3rd***
Licensing International Announces 2023 Rising Star Award Recipients. The Global Rising Star Awards recognizes the next generation of leaders around the world for their commitment, passion and contributions to their company and the licensing industry. Since 2012, Rising Stars are nominated each year from across the global brand licensing community. Recipients will be recognized at the Hall of Fame Gala...
The 16th annual Toy & Game International Excellence Awards (TAGIES) to debut at new venue. People of Play, the organization known for championing toy and game innovators around the world, will honor outstanding achievements at the 16th Annual Toy & Game International Excellence Awards (The TAGIEs) on November 3, 2023. With the theme “Heroes of Play” and sponsored by Disney, Oxford Games, Mattel..
The BTHA tells Toy World how Toy Fair 2024 is shaping up. Majen Immink, director of Fairs & Special Events at the British Toy & Hobby Association, details new and returning exhibitors for next year, plus how the organisation is celebrating the show’s 70th anniversary. How are things shaping up for Toy Fair 2023? Toy Fair is shaping up to be an incredible event.
Consumers given opportunity to vote for TOTY Awards People’s Choice winner. The Toy Foundation (TTF) is calling on play enthusiasts to use their voice and be a part of toy history. Consumers can cast their votes for the Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards People’s Choice award. The winner will be unveiled just in time for holiday shopping on Nov. 20, along with the winner of the prestigious Toy of the Year award.
Disney Lorcana will begin hosting competitive tournaments and fan events in Summer 2024. Despite its resounding success of a launch in September, Disney Lorcana has struggled to stay relevant as an actual trading card game thanks to product availability issues and a lack of organised events engaging fans in their community. Solutions for both are on the horizon, as publisher Ravensburger...
The Paley Center for Media honors Hasbro Centennial with gala tribute, media speakers. The first toy ever advertised on television was Hasbro’s Mr. Potato Head. Frank A. Bennack Jr. and Maureen Reidy of The Paley Center for Media called this historic moment to mind to an audience of toy industry professionals, media figures, and philanthropists to kick off The Paley Honors: A Gala Tribute to Hasbro’s Centennial on...
Meijer to host webinar for veteran-owned businesses to showcase products and services. Meijer is expanding its opportunities for veteran-owned businesses next month. The retailer will host a virtual “Roadmap to Retail” event for veteran-owned businesses, offering qualified vendors the chance to showcase their products and services for Meijer merchants to consider having on store shelves.
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
Richard Gottlieb - From Chris Byrne: "It is with great sadness that I'm letting you know that my dear friend and colleague Richard Gottlieb died last night.
Richard struggled with ALS and approached his illness with grace and good humor.
I knew Richard for many years, but it was in the past four doing The Playground Podcast that we really got to know one another. We shared an abiding love for the toy industry, children, and child development. We also shared a love for literature, especially 19th Century novels, poetry, and Shakespeare that we loved talking about--as well as being able to quote classic Looney Tunes cartoons to one another. Off mic, Richard always made me laugh, and his sometimes-quirky, always mordant humor was a constant delight.
Richard had a huge heart, loved his wife, Wendy and of course his kids and grand kids. He took great pleasure in one grandson's approach to play and loved watching that.
We've lost a really great man who devoted his life to helping others and who took great joy in life. As Houseman wrote:
"Today, the road all runners come,
Shoulder-high we bring you home,
And set you at your threshold down,
Townsman of a stiller town."
He will be missed. We're all a little richer for having known him, and his loss will be deeply felt."
Global Toy News Mourns the Loss of founder Richard Gottlieb
On October 26th Richard lost his battle with ALS which he had fought for roughly 2 years. He slogged through language slurring, then no language and using an electronic voice, then a feeding tube to eat and finally in the last few weeks deep double pneumonia that was too much for him to overcome. Throughout the ordeal, he maintained his sense of humor saying when asked to do a chore, “I have a disease, you know” and never lost his interest in others.
Born in Hampton, Virginia, he went to the University of Richmond and then started with Southern Distributers in 1971, he was with them until 1984 when he joined Western Publishing Company and traveled all over the United States selling books and other products. In 1990 he went to Cadaco and then in 1994 he moved to New York City and launched Global Toy News in 2007 which he wrote for weekly until 2 weeks ago. He also started Global Toy Experts with his former client, then colleague and friend, Steve Velte doing Expert Witness work, mergers and acquisitions and all things toys.
Richard was a big personality and he loved life, he loved people and he loved the toy industry. When we met over 7 years ago, since I am an educator, I was so taken with his fascinating career choice which I soon came to understand was his life blood. We talked about toys and games and their usage constantly. We often played games, especially word games which we played daily challenging each other to be better. He was a wordsmith and a book lover, reading constantly.
Richard had a highly creative mind, he loved all aspects of the toy business from the creation, the manufacturing, the marketing, the selling, the packaging- the whole shebang. Over the 25 years he did this he traveled to Texas, California, China, Germany and other places to speak about, write about and celebrate the business of toys. He met the most wonderful people from all corners of the world, a small portion of whom I was lucky enough to meet too, and he spoke about the many ideas, the friendships, the joy these toys, the toy companies big and small and, the toy people brought children. He was fascinated with all the possible ideas for their implementation at home and in schools. His advice when asked what toys to buy a child was always the same: Buy them something that you love and that has meaning to you and they will love it.
Earlier this month Richard was at The New York Toy Fair where so many of you said hello, came to find him, met with him and told him how meaningful he was to the industry. This meant the world to him and he felt the love and the respect and was both touched and gratified. We celebrated his 76th birthday a week later, so he exited elegantly with touchpoints from family, friends and colleagues earlier this month.
We were working on a book together with Chris Byrne about the toys famous people played with as children and the career paths they chose, and in his honor, we will continue that work.
Thank you all for making his world so full, he fed off your ideas, your energy and your wisdom. He was a lifelong learner, consummate story teller and always playful. I know that he leaves the toy world a little richer, a little bolder and a little more fun.
He always wanted to be interesting and interested and that he was.
This article was written by Wendy Levey (Richard’s Wife)
https://globaltoynews.com/2023/10/27/global-toy-news-mourns-the-loss-of-richard-gottlieb/
David A. Miller, 91, died in Rye, NY on October 24, 2023. A long-time resident of White Plains, NY, he is survived by his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth (Dubitzky), children Alison Gjersvik (Gilbert), Susan, David A., Jr. (Karen), Nancy, and Deborah Sindell (Matt), grandchildren Elizabeth, Rachel, Benjamin, Matthew, David A., III (Trey), Chloe, Paige, Sam and Charlie, brother Richard J. (Judy) and sister-in-law Mildred Dubitzky. Graduate of University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) and NYU Law School and served in the Coast Guard. Co-founder with his brother of Eden Toys, a leading toy manufacturer, and later president of the Toy Industry Association (TIA) and chairman of the International Council of Toy Industries. He was inducted in the TIA Hall of Fame and served on the boards of Blythedale Childrens Hospital and Head Start White Plains and advised FIT's Toy Design Program. Board member of JCC White Plains (Kol Ami). A quiet formidable presence. Donations in his memory can be made to Blythedale Children's Hospital.
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Adventure Media & Events (US)
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Moose Games’ Kangaroo Cleanup Crewmember Has Done His *Doo*ties (The Toy Insider)
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The Paley Center for Media Honors Hasbro Centennial with Gala Tribute, Media Speakers (The Toy Book)
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These Ted Lasso Barbie Dolls Will Lift Your Spirits Just Like Ted Does (The Pop Insider)
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Crayola, Spalding Team Up for Colorful Basketballs (The Toy Book)
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Sesame Street Joins Jay At Play’s Happy Nappers Lineup in 2024 (The Toy Book)
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Just Play Unveils Toys Inspired by Disney’s ‘Wish’ (The Toy Book)
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Hess Toy Truck Rolls On Following Hess Corp. Sale to Chevron (The Toy Book)
aNb Media (US)
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Licensing International Announces 2023 Global Rising Star Award Recipients
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Warner Bros Discovery Sets New Leadership for Global Consumer Products and Franchises
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Cloudco Entertainment’s Care Bears Announces Exciting Partnership with Snow Commerce
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Walmart Debuts DIY Kits from TheSoul Publishing’s 5-Minute Crafts
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University Games’ Party Game Celebrates The 50th Anniversary of the Rocky Horror Show
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ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US)
- WizKids Unveils New 'Pathfinder Battles' Miniatures Boxed Set
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- WizKids Reveals 'D&D Icons of the Realms: Adult Moonstone Dragon'
- ICv2 Interview: Asmodee USA General Manager Julien Sharp
- Asmodee Makes Southern Hobby 'Star Wars Unlimited TCG' Sub-Distributor
- WizKids Announces 'Retail Chase Booster Organized Play Kits'
- 'Magic: The Gathering' and Marvel Team Up
- Games Workshop Announces Six 'Warhammer 40,000' Boxed Sets
- Don't Dream It, Be It with 'Rocky Horror Show Game'
- Skybound Tabletop Unleashes New 'Invincible' Game
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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
