Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
A Bloom of Remembrance and Respect This Memorial Day...
This weekend marks Memorial Day—a time to honor and remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.
My father (upper right in photo) was a Major in World War II and part of the forces that liberated concentration camps. He never spoke of those experiences to me or my siblings, but the impact was clear. At times, his anger revealed the battles he still fought within, and even the sight of blood when one of us was hurt was something he couldn’t bear.
Still, he was proud to have served. His uniform remained hanging in his closet until the end of his days—a quiet symbol of sacrifice, duty, and enduring pride.
With Gratitude and Respect to those Who Served,
Mary
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Matt Proulx of Hasbro Talks the Company's Portfolio, Using Music for Brand Storytelling, and More!
Hi Matt! Thanks for taking the time to speak with us! What can you tell us about your journey into the industry and journey/role within Hasbro’s global experiences, partnerships, and music division?
I’ve been with Hasbro since 2007, and my journey really mirrors the company’s own evolution into the global games, IP, and toy powerhouse it is today. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work across multiple parts of the business – from managing the TRANSFORMERS brand through its first three films to overseeing marketing and business development for Hasbro’s entertainment studio. Having the opportunity to touch so many iconic brands along the way laid the foundation for where I am now.
Today, I lead teams within Hasbro’s Global Licensed Consumer Products division, where we focus on big‑picture, long‑term strategies across experiences, music, partnerships, and promotions. The goal is to bring brands like PEPPA PIG, Dungeons & Dragons, and MY LITTLE PONY to life in bold, unexpected ways – whether that’s through immersive attractions, live shows, original music, or standout partnerships. It’s an incredibly exciting space to play in, and it’s all about creating unforgettable moments that deepen how fans connect with our brands around the world. 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: “All gave some; some gave all. Remember them this Memorial Day.” – Unknown
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

| Harrison Brooks Frank Hornby Brian Trueman Jason Keener Joseph Gonzalez Victor Davila Steve Pepoon |
Peter Mayhew Jim Ward Kia McCormick Joshua Garrett Hunt Rettig Giada Conte Tomas Ahjopalo |
As expected, a strong performance lifted first-quarter results as the company reaffirmed its 2026 outlook.
Higher gross profit margin despite lower revenue and profit
A new lawsuit alleges that Sony will receive "a double recovery windfall" following the Trump administration's IEEPA tariff refunds.
The Trump Administration has started repaying more than a hundred and fifty billion dollars to companies that paid its import duties. So far, most of their customers are still waiting to see much benefit.
After a string of weak results, retailer says more shoppers are gravitating to refreshed products and stores. Executives say much work still lies ahead.
Toy companies tap into real-time cultural moments to create fan-favorite products.
This year's hottest brands are setting trends at licensing's big show.
Sue Warfield, President of Astra, discusses the importance of licensed products to specialty retailers.
Supply Chain Oversight is Part of Responsible IP Protection
Maura Regan of Licensing International discusses industry trends, the rise of kidult fandom, and why licensing continues to shape the toy aisle.
Inside the shifting habits of a growing audience.
DC's Absolute line of comics continues to top the charts.
This has been a very strange week for me. Under normal circumstances, I would have been travelling to either Harrogate for the Toymaster Show, or Las Vegas for Licensing Expo.
"Every year, when I read our scholarship applications, I think the same thing: The future of this industry is in good hands."
Command of Nature is a deck-building strategy game, where the Sages of four different Elemental factions compete for the title of Master of the Elements.
Why Play Is One of the Most Powerful Tools for Social Change
Test your toy knowledge with Toy Book's latest Pop Quiz!
Las Vegas doesn’t do subtle. And the famous saying, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” is the opposite of what Licensing Expo is all about.
'Zoonicorn: The Original Dreamer' will run in theaters and on streaming sites.
Meet Fans Where they are!
Ollie Pryor, Director of Retail & Trade Marketing, UK & Ireland, and eCommerce EMEA, Disney Consumer Products, tells readers of the May issue all about the upcoming retail activations for the new Toy Story film.
Here’s everything you need to know about the July edition of Toy World, how you can get involved and the deadlines to make a note of.
Whether you’re making an announcement, trendjacking a moment in the news, or crafting your own story, deciding when to pursue a PR opportunity is a bit of an art and a science.
Japan's three largest online flea market platforms have officially announced a strict ban on the resale of McDonald’s new Chiikawa Happy Meal toys.
Watch as Dave of the Toy Polloi YouTube channel repairs a Roboskull toy from the Action Force line produced by Palitoy.
Released in 1982 by Lakeside, Tattooz were temporary transfer tattoos designed to give children the appearance of real body art without permanence.
Published by Hasbro in 1959, the Leave It to Beaver: Rocket to the Moon Space Game capitalize on a successful sitcom and the growing fascination with space exploration to extend the program’s presence beyond the screen and into play.
“The Force can also be against you.”
The Spice Girls' 30th anniversary will be marked with an iconic collection including Pop! figures, Bitty Stages and Keychains.
Trustbridge Entertainment has appointed BBC Studios to lead the global expansion of the Maisy 2D animated pre-school series across content, consumer products and licensing.
As Star Wars returns to the big screen with The Mandalorian and Grogu movie, Revell has created model kits featuring significant vehicles from the film.
The partnership between Moose Toys and Netflix for new Kids & Family entertainment will bring to life characters from Young MacDonald and Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory.
Funko and BBC Studios are launching a licensed Bluey collection that transforms fan-favorite pups into Pop! vinyl figures.
Horizon Group USA is entering creative mode with Mojang Studios to craft a new line of activity kits inspired by 'Minecraft.'
The IP will be represented at Licensing Expo.
The new line includes fashion and collector dolls.
Oleg Kuzovkov regains creative control of the franchise as Studio MiM begins work on a rebooted theatrical vision
Consumer products, theme park experiences, and gaming partnerships fuel the franchise’s next growth phase.
The studio behind 'The Boys' and 'Jumanji: Open World' strikes deals and builds programs tailor-made for the fandom.
JAKKS Pacific is powering up its portfolio with a new line of collectible dolls inspired by DC Comics’ classic heroes and villains.
The Licensing Book speaks to Christa Pitts about The Elf on The Shelf's growth into a year-round brand and a new collaboration with Warner Bros. and Harry Potter.
"Licensing has to be a long-term vision, not a short-term experiment."
The licensing exec repping Carlos Santana and Smokey Bear discusses the trends shaping the business today.
JAKKS Pacific expands its The Super Mario Galaxy Movie collection with Chomping Wonder Bowser Jr., now available for preorders.
Creating products that live beyond the page.
Timed with Licensing Expo, this issue is packed with exclusive features and hundreds of new toys and games.
Spin Master heads to Licensing Expo with a stacked lineup and big plans for the future.
BBC Studios expands the reach of ‘Bluey’ through live experiences, consumer products, and licensing partnerships.
USPS-branded toys, collectibles, and more are arriving at the doorstep and in the mailbox.
For Bratz’s 25th anniversary, MGA Entertainment is strutting its stuff with new collaborations, collectibles, and content for all fans.
The LEGO Group brings faith, trust, and pixie dust to fans with the launch of its LEGO Disney Main Street, U.S.A. set.
New attractions, dining concepts, collectibles, publishing, and retail partnerships spotlight the company’s franchise-first strategy.
These hands-on kits will be available nationwide this fall.
The prototypes are available to view at the hololive productions booth for the rest of the show.
The championship game for Banana Ball will stream live on Disney+ this October as part of a with the Savannah Bananas.
With new iterations of Star Wars, Toy Story, and more hitting theaters, this year promises cinematic adventures packed with licensing potential.
Netflix is partnering with Ferrero Group to launch a new confectionery product range inspired by the Wonka universe.
Monopoly F1 Edition features popular Formula 1 teams and circuits.
Unlock new revenue streams and leverage your IP.
A 'Rick and Morty' movie is in early development at Warner Bros., with Jacob Hair in talks to direct, Deadline can confirm.
The LEGO Poke Ball set which handily opens up to reveal a scene inside has apparently been pushed back due to production reasons.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has been a tremendous success for both Nintendo and animation studio Illumination.
Netflix has struck a deal with Michael Jelenic and Aaron Horvath, the directors behind The Super Mario Bros. Movie and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, to develop new content for the streaming service.
Nintendo and Lego are teaming up again for a new release
Hasbro Pulse’s latest Marvel Legends Fanstream unveiled new Marvel Legends Series 6‑inch action figures based on Marvel's Fantastic Four, 2099 Unlimited, and Hulk 2099 comic runs.
The Bopster range includes a variety of tactile, collectible and sensory-driven toys designed to support focus, relaxation and everyday play.
Rainbow Designs will produce a wide range of products worldwide based on the iconic pre-school brand owned by DeAPlaneta Entertainment.
The first in a series of adaptations of the legendary Fighting Fantasy series, a high-octane, AR adaptation of Freeway Fighter will take the adventure to new audiences.
"Wackadoo! We've got something special coming up and we can barely contain our excitement."
Dean Weller says these leadership appointments reflect the strength of talent within Generation Media and will deliver more integrated, effective and future-focused solutions.
Mattel has announced that Michael Hick is moving to the US to take up the position of Senior Vice President, US Commercial for Mattel, Inc. Following the appointment of Sanjay Luthra as Chief Commercial Officer.
Consumer goods veteran joins LEGO A/S Board as the company continues evolving its global brand strategy.
The new executives are Brad Winderbaum as Head of Marvel Television, Animation, Comics & Franchise, and David Abdo as General Manager, Comics & Franchise.
Blake Kobashigawa to VP, Katii O'Brien to Edit 'Capes'
Speaking to BoardGameWire in her first long-form interview since being elected GAMA president last month, Meredith Placko said putting proactive structures in place to prevent GAMA "stepping in the mud all the time" was one of her priorities.
Former Walmart executive Jeff England will lead supply chain and logistics at the retailer as it tries to pull out of a yearslong sales slump.
Dylan Sadiq, aka The College Cuber, creates massive portraits out of hundreds of Rubik’s Cubes, often building live at sports events.
Motortrend sat down with Mattel’s Ted Wu, known for his leadership of the Hot Wheels and Matchbox brands, to discuss design, leadership, and inclusivity.
As David Mordecai thanks Allen for his dedication over the years, One For Fun looks forward to a new chapter with Heather joining the team.
The in-store promotion invites LEGO fans across the U.S. to design customizable wall clocks for a chance to win prizes and gift cards.
Disney expands its Blockbuster Summer with its “Lights, Camera…Play!” campaign, featuring merch for Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel.
Sesame Workshop is partnering with the Ad Council to create a new series of PSAs that highlight the importance of maternal mental health.
Taco Cat Games celebrates its rebranding with four original games that spark family connections and encourage screen-free fun.
Mattel maps out a global Masters of the Universe launch that blends kid-first play, collector appeal, and licensing scale for a cross-generational icon.
Despite lacking the ability to fly, Pudgy Penguins has truly taken off. Once a simple PNG, $PENGU is taking the plunge into consumer products.
The new line launches at Miniso this month before expanding to Walmart.com this summer.
SEGA's iconic hedgehog brings anniversary collabs at breakneck speeds.
Food Brands Take A Bite Out of Retail with Playful Licensing Opportunities
Kayou has made a smooth transition into the U.S. market.
Two former-Loungefly execs have brought a new style to an established brand.
Hauck is finding new ways for families to get the most out of their mealtimes with new accessories and activities for its wooden high chairs.
Three decades in, the franchise continues to drive toys, collectibles, and licensing with unmatched global appeal.
Ahead of the movie’s theatrical release, Warner Bros. is launching a ‘Supergirl’ merch collection featuring apparel, collectibles, and more.
As an official partner of Young BAFTA, the Lego Group will continue to build on its mission to empower children through play and creativity, kicking off alongside the Lego Insiders Club x Aardman short film, 'Boop'.
Icecat Product Stories are dynamic, below-the-fold content modules that enrich product pages with structured visuals, key features and use-case-driven storytelling.
The innovative fidget-friendly design supports focus, fine motor development and creative expression, and expands the Tickit silicone range.
Lowe's is partnering with the world's biggest YouTuber for a range of toys and in-store kids workshops.
Publishers are scrambling to reorient their commerce businesses after the tech giant also gut reporting tools.
Licensing Magazine explores the strategy behind its global growth, in a conversation with Roz Nowicki, Global Head of Consumer Products at Miraculous Corp.
Licensing Magazine sat down with Thomas Zambra, Director of Business Development at Moomin Characters, for an in-depth conversation about the brand's strategic expansion in the US market.
The second major Xbox leadership changes this month.
The long-awaited sequel finally launched into early access following a high-profile legal battle between developer Unknown Worlds and publisher Krafton.
The controller-free console is heading overseas after outselling Xbox on U.S. soil during the 2025 holiday season.
More than half of active Arc Raiders players spent over 100 hours in-game during Q1.
The change will effectively require new Essential subscribers to pay $1 more per month.
After outselling Xbox in the United States, could the Nex Playground eventually eclipse one of Nintendo's best-selling consoles?
Within a year of announcing the partnership, Hasbro's Wizards of the Coast and Giant Skull collaboration on a Dungeons & Dragons game has been canceled.
Astra attendees should expect the presence of goddesses this year! Oz Creations, LLC, creator of the Olympia Doll Collection, is eager to show their core product line to specialty retailers and toy media at their first ever Astra Marketplace & Academy in Milwaukee June 5-8 at the Baird Convention Center in Booth 1831.
Ohio Representative David Thomas introduced House Bill 873, which would modernize the state’s outdated stuffed toy law by allowing the use of recycled materials in stuffed toys manufactured and sold in the state.
The Toy Association™ has established the Alan G. Hassenfeld Humanitarian Award, a new annual recognition celebrating individuals or companies that lead with compassion, generosity, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of children.
The Toy Foundation™ (TTF) was proud to support Giving Friends’ annual Spring Fling Giveaway, hosted in partnership with Pelham Bay Little League last month.
The Toy Association™ announced that nominations are now open to submit candidates for induction into the 2027 Toy Industry Hall of Fame.
Registration is now open for an upcoming Toy Association webinar designed to help brands build smarter, more effective holiday campaigns.
Registration is now open for an upcoming Toy Association webinar designed to help brands build smarter, more effective holiday campaigns.
At Wednesday’s Awards Night, Toymaster honoured both suppliers and retailers for their hard work and dedication to the success of the toy sector.
The new event blends nostalgia, fandom, and immersive entertainment as brands continue chasing adult consumers.
Licensing Expo returns to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center with more than 400 exhibitors and over 5,000 brands.
The plush line brings dating culture humor to Las Vegas with Remarkable Brands.
Licensed properties step into physical spaces, transforming stories, characters, and gameplay into interactive experiences.
With the goal of attracting visitors and bringing joy to local children, it’s got decorations, snacks and merchandise to match the new theme.
The debut design from Iranian video game veteran Yasaman Farazan was praised by judges for its "genius" action selection system, which makes use of a physical 'astrolabe', calling it "thematic, toyetic, and an absolute joy to engage with".
Nintendo has announced that it will be returning to the annual Gamescom event in Cologne, Germany.
After successfully launching the first Game Guru location in October 2025, Krishna Yadlapalli and business partner Faheem Badur have now opened their second board game café.
An exclusive prize quest where winners get VIP access to Kynren’s new attraction, The Storied Lands, and more, will raise vital funds for Comic Relief.
Model railway enthusiasts from the West Midlands and the surrounding area are invited to attend a special event at the end of June at the Thunderbolt Models store, as part of activities to mark Armed Forces Day.
The BTHA has presented Golden Teddy Awards to both Jason Mahy and Allen Murray during this week's Toymaster Show.
Entries to be judged by some of the biggest names in the automotive industry: Formula 1® President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, FIA Formula One World Drivers’ Champion 2009, Jenson Button, and General Manager & Head of Vehicles at Mattel Ted Wu
130 first-time exhibitors signaled explosive growth across sports, gaming and food & beverage, while industry heavyweights converged to shape the next wave of consumer products.
Through its Spirit of Play Foundation, the Spielwarenmesse was able to share three 20-foot containers packed full of products with the Kinderhaus in Nuremberg and the Kinderlachen Association in Dortmund.
The voice actor known for roles in “Star Wars” and “Powerpuff Girls,” died Monday. He was 64.
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)
- 'Dungeon Crawler Carl' BackerKit Campaign Surpasses $12.5 Million
- 'Dungeon Crawler Carl' Rolls Past $13.29 Million
- Sirius Dice Announces New 'D&D: Mists of Ravenloft Treasure Packs'
- 'Yu-Gi-Oh TCG' Unleashes 'Magnificent Monsters'
- Spiel des Jahres Nominees for 2026 Announced
- 'Magic: The Gathering' Officially Goes to the Cats
- Asmodee Announces Partner Publishers for Middle-earth Enterprises
- Rolling for Initiative -- 'Dungeon Crawler Carl' - The BackerKit
- 'Secrets of Strixhaven' Breaks 'Lorwyn Eclipsed' Record
- Square Enix Reveals New 'Final Fantasy VII Rebirth' Collectible Figures into U.S. Retail
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
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.
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