Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!

Happy Bloomin’ Friday!

I’m just back from Washington, DC, where, in celebration of the United Nations’ International Day of Play, nearly 200 industry colleagues and friends gathered on Capitol Hill for The Toy Association’s Annual Day of Play. The event featured hands-on activations from leading toy and game companies and remarks from bipartisan Congressional Toy Caucus co-chairs U.S. Representatives Ted Lieu and Rob Wittman. In this week’s issue, we share articles highlighting how our industry and communities around the world celebrated this important—and fun—day.

The toy industry lost a legend this week. Michael Kohner was a dear friend to many, a passionate advocate for inventors, a champion and supporter of People of Play, and a familiar face at Toy Fair for more than 60 years. He never missed reading the Bloom Report, mentored countless people throughout the industry, and helped bring joy to generations through games including LOOPIN' LOUIE, MR. BUCKET, GIGGLE WIGGLE, DON’T PANIC, PENCIL NOSE, and MAGIC TOOTH FAIRY.

Michael came from a family of toy industry pioneers. His father, Paul, and uncle, Frank, helped shape the industry, and the Kohner family was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 TAGIE Awards.

We have created a tribute page where friends and colleagues can share memories and celebrate Michael’s remarkable life, legacy, and contributions to the world of play. Michael touched countless lives throughout our industry. While he will be deeply missed by many, I will especially miss his friendship, encouragement, and the love and generosity he brought to our community, as well as his memorable advice to “give with warm hands.”

Celebrating Play and Those Who Make It Possible,

Mary and the POP Team

Bloom Report Subscribers Say...

  • "Love your report - keep up the great work!" -Rick Stringer, SVP, Crayola
  • "I’ve been reading the Bloom Report faithfully since the Phillip days and can’t be more impressed that Mary has carried on the tradition. It is the highlight of my Fridays. Not just for the comprehensive recap of all things in the industry, but for the little personal touches – the quotes, cartoon, birthdays, obituaries, Person of the Week interview – these bring out the heart and soul of our industry." -Alan Dorfman, Super Impulse
  • "The Bloom Report is always a Friday treat!" - Dana Cohler Moncrief, Moose Toys
  • "Thank you Mary!  My workday can now begin. Fridays always start out, at my desk, with a large iced coffee, SportsCenter in the background and The Bloom Report."  -Tom Rushton, Revenew Sales
  • "If you know, you know: the Bloom Report is the New York Times of the toy business." - Lev Nelson, Sky Castle Toys
  • "I read the Bloom Report religiously." - Josh Staph, Duncan Toys Company
  • "Mary, I'm building a wholesale distribution business in Australia. Another wholesaler told me about you and said it would be invaluable to get the Bloom Report."- Scott McCall, mishmashed
  • "I go to work 6 days a week and magic happens! On day 7 I read the Bloom Report." 😁 - Rick Derr, Learning Express
  • "Tell me you're in the toy industry w/o telling me you're in the toy industry: Friday Morning = a cup-a-Joe & Bloom Report!" -Tim Walsh, The Playmakers
  • "I don't know anyone in the industry that doesn't read the Bloom Report." -Ken Lewis, 4Kidz, Inc.
  • "I am a long-time reader and champion of the Bloom Report. The quantity of quality articles on so many different aspects of our industry  is unmatched and  I regularly share and discuss them with my management team as an important business tool."  - Jim Engle, Little Kids Inc.
  • “I seriously look forward to each Friday to learn most every update + more in the Industry. Priceless info! Thank you” - Michael Kohner, The Michael Kohner Corporation

The Bloom Report has over 26,000 subscribers with a 50%+ open rate.
A banner ad is $5,000/year or just $96.15/week. Get Your Ad Now! Purchase Here!

In Memory of Michael Kohner — A Toy Industry Legend and a True Gentleman of Play

The toy and game world has lost one of its most treasured figures, and I have lost a dear friend.

Michael Kohner's legacy stretched from his family's founding of Kohner Bros..."., through iconic products like Trouble and the Busy Box, to his own remarkable run with the Michael Kohner Corporation. 

He was a gentleman in every sense, patient, fair, and ethical to his core. His word was his bond, and in a business built on relationships, he set the standard for how those relationships should be conducted. READ MORE

Reyn Guyer’s Next 15 Minutes of Fun

Reyn Guyer claims he hasn’t grown up yet. “I don’t feel like I’ve achieved maturity,” the 91-year-old Guyer says honestly, but with a hint of a smile. “Maybe someday I will, but for now, I’ll just go where the ideas pull me.”

That’s right, the creator of Twister and Nerf and member of the Hasbro’s Inventor’s Hall of Fame is still at it. Embracing ideas and creating new products like the 15 Minute Fun & Done collection his company just released.

What keeps him from retiring and spending his days golfing by the ocean? There are simply too many good ideas coming to him and they’re still fun to explore.

The one that changed everything and the one that got away
Guyer began his career in his father’s Point of Sale advertising business, creating sales displays for Fortune 500 companies in the 1960s. In fact, he was attempting to create a sales incentive for a shoe polish company when he hit on the idea for what was to become the legendary board game Twister. He realized that there had never been a board game where the people were the playing pieces.

“There was no other concept like it in the market,” Guyer says. “That’s what kept me inspired, the ‘who knows?’ of it all.”

READ MORE

Boaz Coster Talks Creating Elefun, It's Return, and More!

Thank you Boaz for taking time to share your story with our readers.  While I’ve known you and your wonderful and creative family a long time, some of our readers have not had the pleasure.  What do you do in our industry?
I am a second-generation toy inventor. My late parents, Ora and Theo Coster (Theora Concept), filled my childhood with playful creativity. Among many other projects, they designed, invented, and licensed Elsie Stix to Borden, Guess Who? to Hasbro’s Milton Bradley, Zingo to ThinkFun, and Last Mouse Lost (Pop It) to FoxMind. The family tradition continues through Theora Concept, as my brother Gideon, my wife Aliza, and I carry on the creative journey my parents started.

READ MORE

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

Cartoon of the Week: Another wonderful cartoon submitted this week!

Do you have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to Mary.

Memorable Quotes: “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” ― Fred Rogers

Toy Industry Word of Day:  If you can think of a toy/game industry word not in our POPDictionary, add it and we will connect it to you POP profile, feature it here in an upcoming week and on POP's homepage!

Happiest of Birthdays to our colleagues celebrating birthdays this past week

Walter Sayers
Krysten Altenburg
Jael Golad
Draw Pillows
Paul Dixon
Lance Reddick
Jacob Berg
Nicholas Cravotta
Marta Mirallas

Scott Adams
Kimberly Merrill
Kyle Cosgrove
David Spears
Peter Reneday
George Pérez
Karyn Devlin
Peyton Gulley
Lauren Bath

 

Financial, Legal and Tariffs

Nintendo of Europe to pay 40m fine for Joy-Con drift issues

Nintendo of Europe has agreed to pay a $40 million fine in a settlement of an investigation regarding Joy-Con drift.

Moose Toys wins major victory against Gui Gui knockoff

UP International has been ordered to halt all sales of its Glossy Glue after it was found to have infringed on Moose Toys' design.

Relatable Acquires Hugimals World

The deal expands the company’s wellness and plush portfolio.

US firms pay price for Trump’s China tariffs, export controls, study finds

US-China Business Council survey points to lost sales for American companies, with few signs of reshoring.

Paizo Reports Almost $2 Million Loss in 2025 Due to Diamond Bankruptcy

Paizo, Inc. revealed that they had almost $2 million in losses in 2025, forcing the company to undergo restructuring in 2026.

Stories, Comments, and Advice

It’s a game of two halves (or is it four quarters?) … it’s the Friday Blog!

Thanks to everyone who got in touch to say they were pleased to see the Friday Blog return last week. It will be a gradual reintroduction to the world of work: I spent a day in the office for the first time this week, and I am still leaving most of the day-to-day activity to the team.

Touching Base with Kidult suppliers and retailers

Toy World touched base with a host of suppliers and retailers about the category's potential.

Spotlight on Wheeled Toys

The Wheeled Toys category continues to resonate with riders of all ages, and Toy World’s Caroline Tonks speaks with several leading suppliers to get their insights on the category’s place at retail all year round.

The Toy Book’s Specialty Toys & Gifts Issue is Here!

Timed with Astra Marketplace & Academy in Milwaukee, The Toy Book's annual Specialty Toys & Gifts Issue focuses on new products and trends geared toward independent toy stores, hobby shops, card shops, and more.

Brewed for Specialty

It’s June, and that means it’s time for Astra Marketplace & Academy, the annual mid-year gathering built to strengthen the specialty toy industry from the inside out.

The Design Shop: Bigshot Toyworks: From Concept to Collectible

The studio helps brands and creators turn ideas into reality.

WobbleWorks Keeps Kids Moving

The company taps into its inventive heritage for products in new categories designed for active, repeatable play.

WiT Stories: The Human Shelf: Why Connections Still Wins at Retail

In the world of online shopping, human interactions make the final sale.

The Realm of Play: Sir Troy’s Toy Kingdom

For the average person, running a toy store is a fantasy. It’s also a fantasy for Troy Cefaratti, owner of Sir Troy’s Toy Kingdom, but that fantasy is purely for aesthetic purposes. 

Play with Purpose: Courage Over Comfort

What Real Social Impact Requires from Toy Leaders

Pop Quiz with Wendy Smolen: Specialty Toys & Gifts 2026 Edition

Test your toy knowledge with Toy Book's latest Pop Quiz!

You Can Soon Build the Sagrada Família Out of 12,060 Legos. Here's Why the Famed Basilica Is an Architectural Marvel

Pioneering architect Antoni Gaudí’s plans for the basilica were ambitious and complex, drawing on creative geometric forms and ancient inspiration, which is one reason why it remains unfinished after 144 years.

Exclusive: June’s Talking Shop

Within June’s Talking Shop feature, Toy World's Caroline Tonks and Gabriela Jiménez García spoke to a selection of indies about how their year has been so far.

Spotlight on Kidult

Toy World’s Caroline Tonks speaks with a selection of leading players to gather their insights on the current outlook of the market and discover what trends are shaping its growing success.

Playing With Toy Soldiers

Harry Pearson on how the cultural landscape was littered with literary wargamers.

ASTRA Marketplace... whew!

"I returned from the Astra Marketplace in Milwaukee last night intending to write a brief, polite thank-you post before starting my day. But the longer I sat in my office reflecting, the more I realized I had thoughts."

History and Nostalgia

45 Years Later, He-Man's True Origin Is Much Weirder Than You Realize

For a generation of younger moviegoers who have spent the last two decades fed a constant stream of projects based on 60+ year old licensed superheroes from the Big Two (DC and Marvel), it’s easy to be unaware of the sheer prevalence of “superhero adjacent” original cartoons given to kids in the 80s.

Flashback: Hot Toys from 2016

2016 was packed with fun tech and cool collectibles.

Swing Swang from Milton Bradley

Published by Milton Bradley in 1971, Swing Swang was a skill-and-action game that challenged players to guide a wooden ball suspended from a string through a numbered course before time ran out.

Licensing and Entertainment

Super Mario Galaxy Movie has now passed $1Billion, first film of 2026 to do so

Great news for Nintendo and animation studio Illumination as The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has now surpassed $1Billion in revenue worldwide.

Craft Buddy launches new Harry Potter collectibles

The collectibles range features a Harry Potter and Hedwig bag charm, as well as a Crystal Art Pin Badge Blind Bag.

Rubber Road launches new Tubbz Mystery Eggs

Mystery Eggs kick off with a Minions collection to capitalise on the hype for the new Minions vs Monsters movie that drops on 4th July.

Jazwares launches official Love Island party game

With Love Island: Villa Life, fans of the show can experience the villa energy for themselves with fun questions and challenges.

Hasbro Launches Transformers: Cyberworld Energon Surge Bumblebee Power Spark at Walmart

The 11-inch action figure arrives alongside fan events at select stores.

The LEGO Group Plays with New ‘Toy Story’ Building Sets

Excitement is building for 'Toy Story 5,' and The LEGO Group is claiming a piece of the action with new building sets inspired by the series. 

Care Bears Expands European Retail Presence Through LPP Group Partnership

New collections spanning fashion, accessories, plush, and collectibles roll out across more than 26 countries.

Miraculous Corp, WildBrain Expand ‘Miraculous’ to New Locations

Miraculous Corp and WildBrain extend their partnership to bring the Miraculous franchise to new locations beyond the Americas.

Youtooz is Coming to the Cottage with a Heated Rivalry Collection

Youtooz is letting fans stay longer at the cottage by releasing three figures as part of its Heated Rivalry collection.

Paramount reportedly open to ditch kids channels for merger

The studio giant could potentially sell Nick or other kidsnets if it means easing the European Commission's regulatory concerns.

Preview: McFarlane Toys 'Marvel Rivals' Variant Covers

 As the next wave of Marvel Rivals statues release later this month, Marvel Comics joins the excitement with new McFarlane Toys Marvel Rivals variant covers.

‘Jem And The Holograms’ Live-Action Series In Works At Amazon With Kilter Films & Hasbro

Amazon MGM Studios is developing a 'Jem And The Holograms' live-action series with Lisa Joy and Jonathan Nolan’s Kilter Films & Hasbro Entertainment.

‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ & ‘The Patrick Star Show’ Renewed For More Seasons By Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon has picked up additional seasons of its longest-running series, SpongeBob SquarePants, and its spinoff The Patrick Star Show.

Doctor Who: BBC cancels Christmas special and Russell T Davies announces departure

The BBC said the decision was made "after careful consideration" and had "not been taken lightly".

KidAntics to launch National Geographic STEM range on 25th July

The new STEM range features science kits focused on geology, crystal growing, excavation and experimentation.

Hasbro Suits Up ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Line with New Toys

With Spider-Man’s latest adventure only a month away, Hasbro has unveiled its entire lineup of toys and collectibles inspired by the film. 

Topps’ ‘Toy Story 5’ Trading Cards Add Magic to Collecting

Topps puts magic in collectors’ hands with trading cards featuring Disney and Pixar characters, including new faces from 'Toy Story 5.'

MrBeast, Moose Games Reveals MrBeast: The Ultimate Game

Moose Games and MrBeast add high stakes and adrenaline-fueled fun to family game nights with the launch of MrBeast: The Ultimate Game.

‘Scooby-Doo’ Live-Action Netflix Series Rounds Out Main Cast

The live-action "Scooby-Doo" series at Netflix has revealed its entire main cast.

‘PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie’ New Trailer Debuts Backed by Backstreet Boys Track

The new spot follows the cuddly crusaders as they find themselves storm-swept onto a mysterious island, where they meet a new friends and discover a lost world of enormous, endearing dinosaurs.

Topps celebrates 30 years of Merlin with new Premier League collection

The collection blends 90s Premier League sticker collecting with modern technology to reimagine the football collectibles for a new generation.

Yoto Launches ‘Ultimate Football Heroes’ Collection Featuring World Cup Stars

Yoto's new audio card pack features life stories from five beloved soccer stars. The collection was launched to celebrate the World Cup.

People of Play

Just Play appoints Philipp Roser as Country Manager GSA

Philipp brings extensive experience through a variety of national and international leadership positions in the toy industry.

Hippychick founders announce step back after more than 25 years

The founders will be downsizing operations and working with brand partners to re-distribute core ranges as part of a planned transition.

Mattel taps Michele Hennessy for kids & preschool animation role

Netflix’s Heather Tilert also promoted to VP of kids and family series and Lindsay Turner joins BBC Studios Digital Brands.

How Cracker Barrel’s CEO Saved Her Job by Abandoning Her Own Strategy

Shares in the restaurant chain shot up after Julie Felss Masino unveiled a more profitable outlook and said diners were returning

Tonies extends CEO Tobias Wann’s contract through to 2029

Tobias Wann's leadership so far has included the successful introduction of Toniebox 2 and an increased revenue from EUR 361m to EUR 630m.

Companies and Brands

SuperAwesome partners with Roblox in advertising for under-13s

The partnership with Roblox is aimed at delivering brand-safe advertising for all ages on the platform, including Gen Alpha.

Carte Blanche Group announces change in ownership

Majority shareholders Steve Haines and Duncan Spence are set to exit the business, marking a planned and positive step in Carte Blanche’s evolution.

WeCool Toys announces collaboration with YouTube creator Just Ameerah

The collaboration will see WeCool Toys partnering with Just Ameerah under the popular Compound Kings banner.

Particula showcases strong tech toys portfolio

Particula's flagship GoChess platform provides players with a tournament-grade smart chessboard that connects them to a global community of over 200m competitors.

LEGO Launches Sagrada Família, Largest Building Set to Date

The LEGO Group reveals the LEGO Architecture Sagrada Família, the largest LEGO building set ever released, with more than 12,000 pieces.

Luki Lab Expands Fall Lineup

Luki Lab is gearing up for Fall 2026, with three new products set to debut at Astra Marketplace & Academy.

Hasbro Moneymaxxes by Launching Monopoly Brainrot Billionaire

Hasbro brings rizz and aura to family game nights with Monopoly Brainrot Billionaire, a game designed for Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

Five Little Monkeys' Mission to Curate Community

Specialty toy store Five Little Monkeys celebrates 25 years of serving the Bay Area.

New in Town: Schnerds are Here to Stay

Inspired by loss, Chris Zaccaria turned his art into purpose-driven plush.

Goliath Launches Series 3 of Clickeez

These collectibles feature all-new characters and click sounds.

NEW Drop from POP MART: Peach Riot Fruit Punch Series

Meet Peach Riot – original characters created by artist Libby Frame turned POP MART IP’s & musicians – and their newest drop & first-ever plush pendant: Fruit Punch Series.

Gibsons launches two new cat-themed games

The two cat-themed games gained positive responses at the UK Games Expo for their quick-to-learn mechanics and interactive gameplay.

Inside Out Toys stays ahead

Toy World’s Caroline Tonks spoke with Julian Garner, Managing Director of Inside Out Toys, to discover more about the company’s retail proposition and how it continues to strengthen its partnership with the independent trade.

Beehub invites buyers to Shantou

Beehub, the Netherlands-based global strategic partner of On Top, has organised an exclusive hosted buyer trip to Shantou, taking place from 1st-4th September.

Winning Moves kicks off World Football Stars range at retail

The World Football Stars Top 200 Top Trumps collection features six collectible packs showcasing many of the world's leading male and female footballers.

The evolution of Walmart Marketplace

Toy World sat down with Marion Sakowski, Director of Business Development of the platform, to discuss how Walmart Marketplace has evolved since its launch in 2009 and how it can help toy businesses grow.

The Puppet Company commemorates 25 years of fun in Hamleys display

The first-ever Puppet Company window display highlights the joy of puppets for six weeks with a summer scene in one of Hamleys' iconic windows.

Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Paramount unveils new 'unified' Paramount Games Studio The freshly unveiled studio will house all current Paramount and Skydance game studios moving forward.
Spyro the Dragon returns with a new game after almost two decades

90s PlayStation fans, rejoice: California studio Toys for Bob is making Spyro: Realms Beyond, intended to ‘inspire love, joy and laughter’

Platinum Games is working on TMNT: The Last Ronin

The game was briefly showcased during The Game Awards but platforms were not announced, so folks will have to wait and see where it lands.

Video: Hot Wheels Infinite Rush announced for Nintendo Switch 2

After being accidentally leaked earlier today ahead of the official reveal at Summer Game Fest, the next Hot Wheels game has now been confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2.

Tifa Lockhart coming to Street Fighter 6, more fighters announced

Capcom and Square Enix have announced a collaboration to bring Tifa Lockhart from the Final Fantasy VII Remake series to Street Fighter 6 in early 2027.

Final Fantasy VII Revelation announced, simultaneous release coming spring 2027

The final game announced during Summer Game Fest is the long-awaited final part of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy which is officially titled, Final Fantasy VII Revelation.

Xbox wants to become “number one gaming company” by 2030

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has lofty ambitious for the company as she said that she wants to become the number one gaming and entertainment company by 2030.

Mina the Hollower has sold 500,000 copies

The talented team at Yacht Club Games have announced that the spectacular Mina the Hollower has now sold over 500,000 copies.

Ninjala 2 announced with story mode

Nintendo and its third party developers have announced a brand new Ninjala video game. You may remember Ninjala for the original Switch which was a free to play multiplayer title.

New Xenoblade game Xenoblade Genesis coming to Nintendo Switch 2

Monolith Soft has finally unveiled what it has been working on all this time and it is a brand new Xenoblade adventure which is coming in 2027.

Deltarune: Chapter 5 launches for Switch and Switch 2 as free update on 24th June

Deltarune got a surprise announcement during the latest Nintendo Direct.

Kingdom Hearts 4 coming to Nintendo Switch 2 available at launch

The news was accompanied by a new trailer which shows off some of the intense action sequences you will play through when the game arrives possibly next year.

Kingdom Hearts Collection coming to Nintendo Switch 2 this October

A collection of Kingdom Hearts games has been announced for Nintendo Switch 2. Previously released as cloud versions, save data can be transferred to the upcoming native ports.

Nintendo announces Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake coming to Switch 2 this year

Nintendo finally unveiled the eagerly-anticipated The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Direct for 9th June roundup

The latest Nintendo Direct put the spotlight on anticipated games and updated titles coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch systems – as well as some new reveals.

EXG Pro releases new Buzz Lightyear Cable Guy

As anticipation builds for the next chapter in Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story universe, EXG Pro is tapping into the nostalgia with the new Buzz Lightyear Cable Guy.

Nintendo, FIFA, and More Lead a Busy Week in Gaming News

Nintendo unveils its latest Switch 2 lineup.

Safety and Regulatory

BTHA calls for stronger controls for online marketplaces to prevent sale of unsafe toys

The BTHA hosted a special industry event at Parliament yesterday to share the findings of its latest investigation, which showed shocking numbers of dangerous toys are still being sold across online marketplaces.

Toy Industry to Meet in Washington for DC Fly-In & Annual Day of Play on Capitol Hill

The events will bring together toy business owners and policymakers for meetings and interactive experiences to spotlight top industry priorities, the value of play, and the toy industry's contributions to the U.S. economy.

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

Reserve Your Booth for CHITAG 2026 by June 17 and Maximize Your Opportunities

Booth space is now open for the 2026 Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG), taking place November 7 to 8 in Rosemont, Illinois, offering toy and game companies a unique opportunity to connect directly with media and consumers in an engaging, hands-on environment during the holiday shopping season.

Big Ideas Wanted: Speaker Submissions Open for Toy Fair® University 2027

The Toy Association™ has announced that Toy Fair University, the official education program of Toy Fair®, is now accepting speaker proposals for the next edition of the show, taking place February 20 to 23 at the Javits Center in New York City.

Utilizing Toy Chest, Part II: How Spin Master is Scaling its Global Philanthropic Impact

At Spin Master, purpose and philanthropy are deeply intertwined with the belief that every child should have the opportunity to grow, explore, and learn through play, regardless of their circumstances.

Toy Association Perspectives: Big Support For Small Teams

Running a small toy business often means wearing multiple hats — from product development and sourcing to sales and marketing — all within a lean team.

Hasbro Levels Up International Day of Play with Gaming Events

To celebrate this year's International Day of Play, Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast are highlighting how games bring families together. 

The Road to the Worlds campaign starts in Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel

Duelists can take part in a two-stage qualifier for the World Championship 2026, alongside a special Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel campaign.

Restore Hope launches charity auction

Originally started by Gary and Cath Grant, this is Restore Hope's third year of running a live auction and it continues to grow in popularity each year.

Toy Trust cyclists complete London to Paris 24-hour Cycle Challenge

Seven riders from across the industry have successfully cycled from London to Paris in 24 hours covering 188 miles for charity.

Brand Licensing Europe 2026 Sets the Stage for Licensed Play

From kidults and collectibles to cross-generational fandom and entertainment-based IP, BLE returns to Excel London with a sharp focus on the future of play.

Barbie: The Exhibition at Kelvingrove - 70 years of an iconic doll’s design story

She's the fashion icon in the toy box, a billion-seller with a career spanning 200 jobs and the eternal youth of a 19 year old as she approaches her 70th birthday.

The Entertainer announces major micro-donations milestone

Britain’s toy shop, The Entertainer, has announced that it has raised £4m for four UK children’s hospitals across the UK through its partnership with micro-donation charity, Pennies.

BLE elevates attendee experience with new pass options

Taking place from 6th-8th October at Excel London, BLE opened online registrations last week and there are now four pass types to choose from.

Winners crowned at Outdoor Toy Awards 2026

The awards showed that fresh air can still be the best playground as children tested multiple outdoor toys and games.

Cat Earth sells out at UK Games Expo

Cat Earth gained popularity at the UK Games Expo, with visitors eager to learn more about the game that combines strategy and interaction with feline chaos.

Hasbro Brings Transformers Concert, Exclusives to SDCC

2026 marks 40 years of The Transformers: The Movie, and Hasbro is celebrating the anniversary with a tour, a concert, and a new soundtrack.

Hasbro Brings Heroic Figures and Exclusive Collectibles to SDCC

Hasbro returns to Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) with new exclusive collectibles featuring popular fandoms.

The Toy Foundation Raises $5.7 Million in Toys for Kids in Need

Thanks to generous donations, The Toy Foundation is celebrating International Day of Play by bringing joy to 450,000 families in need.

RIP - Rest in Play - Remembering Those that have Passed

Michael Kohner

Michael Kohner's legacy stretched from his family's founding of Kohner Bros..."., through iconic products like Trouble and the Busy Box, to his own remarkable run with the Michael Kohner Corporation.

Matthieu d'Epenoux

The founder of French publisher Cocktail Games in 2001, passed away at the age of 60.

Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories

Some stories added Friday afternoon. Check Back for Complete Lists.

Toy Trade Monthly & Special Issues​​​​​​​​​​​​​


 

Adventure Media & Events (US)​

 

 

​Toyworld (UK)


 


 Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld

 

 

 
ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US) 

- Wizards of the Coast Announces Delays for 'Magic: The Gathering - Marvel Super Heroes' Products
- Sirius Dice Unveils Images of Chonky 'D&D Themberchaud 55mm D20'
- WizKids Unveils New Wave of 'D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures'
- Fantasy Flight Games Unveils 'Star Wars Unlimited: Icons'
- WizKids Reveals New 'D&D Icons of the Realms' Dragon
- Paizo Reports Almost $2 Million Loss in 2025 Due to Diamond Bankruptcy
- 'Neon Odyssey TTRPG' Funding Total Passes Both 'Cosmere RPG' and 'Dungeon Crawler Carl RPG'
- Mothership Games Announces Two U.S. Hobby Game Distributors for 'Cataclysm Arcade TCG'
- Become an 80s Rock Hero in 'Garage Rock'
- Hasbro Unveils Two 'Monopoly' Games

 

Casual Game Insider

In this issue: Face your fears, collect cheese, and escape a mousy nightmare in Bézier Games' new ladder-climbing and card-shedding game, Haunted Mouse. Plus: best board games for the non-convert, how 'game feel' shapes the emotion and experience of gaming, the evolving trend of two-player games, tips from an educator about teaching game design in school, an interview with Happy Camper's Jason Schneider about his trek from circus performer to indie game publisher, and a FREE print-and-play game: Tooth & Talon by Aaron Lambert. Our readers also discuss the games at the top of their wishlist.

Read Online: https://online.fliphtml5.com/oabsj/tgcw/


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


Global Toy News​​​ 

 

 
The Bugg Report (Australia)​

 

 
 
The Toy Universe (Australia)

 

  
​hobbyDB


​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
BoardGameWire​​
 


 
Toy Store (Italy)

Video of the Week

Ken Thrives Under Pressure While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

POP Classifieds - Free and Easy

"I kept an eye on People of Play's Classifieds and now I work at TOMY!" -Jeff Hersheway, Digital Content Manager at TOMY International

Either post your job openings yourself (so easy!) to our POP Classifieds or send them to us to post for you. We all have colleagues looking now that would benefit.

You can also post IP and more to sell. We just posted a listing for US Utility Patent & Trademark: MOGO.

If you are looking for someone with particular skills and expertise, use POP's Advanced Search to fine that person or company you need!  

If you are not in the POP Directory, the largest searchable directory by skill, expertise and more, sign up!

Get Listed in the POP Toy Industry Database

It's Linkedin + IMDb and Searchable!

"I highly recommend that if anyone in this industry wants to be found, they join POP and fill out the skills and expertise section of their POP Profiles. I've had companies and a major media network reach out to me for a show based on my skills and expertise."
David Yakos, Founder of Streamline Design and Owner of Salient Technologies

  • Display your entire portfolio, unlimited products, videos, photos, media, and more
  • Advanced search skills, expertise, by roles, location, and more
  • Access to information of products, people, and companies
  • Post to homepage social feed - 149,000 unique visitors in past 12 month

What are you waiting for? We've got the most powerful platform in our industry!
Join here:  www.peopleofplay.com