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

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!

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

 

Financial, Legal and Tariffs

Q1 Growth at Hasbro Fueled by Magic: The Gathering Momentum

As expected, a strong performance lifted first-quarter results as the company reaffirmed its 2026 outlook.

VTech Announces FY2026 Annual Results

Higher gross profit margin despite lower revenue and profit

Sony is being sued for alleged tariff 'double recovery windfall'

A new lawsuit alleges that Sony will receive "a double recovery windfall" following the Trump administration's IEEPA tariff refunds.

Where Are the Tariff Refunds for American Consumers?

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.

Target Reports Strongest Sales Gain in Years but Sounds Note of Caution

After a string of weak results, retailer says more shoppers are gravitating to refreshed products and stores. Executives say much work still lies ahead.

Stories, Comments, and Advice

Everyone’s a winner... it’s the Friday Blog!

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.

WiT Stories: The Future We’re Building

"Every year, when I read our scholarship applications, I think the same thing: The future of this industry is in good hands."

Game Review: Command of Nature

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.

Play with Purpose: A Force for Good

Why Play Is One of the Most Powerful Tools for Social Change

Pop Quiz with Wendy Smolen: Licensing Expo 2026 Edition

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

From the Toybook Editor: Viva Las Vegas!

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, Dream Mechanics Entertainment to Release Film

'Zoonicorn: The Original Dreamer' will run in theaters and on streaming sites.

The Fandom Feed: Lean In

Meet Fans Where they are!

Disney on Toy Story 5's upcoming retail activations

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.

Get involved in the July issue of Toy World

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.

To Pursue or Not Pursue: How to Evaluate PR Opportunities

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 Top Auction Sites Ban Resale of McDonald’s New Chiikawa Happy Meal Toys

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.

History and Nostalgia

Vintage Toy Restoration – Action Force Roboskull from Palitoy

Watch as Dave of the Toy Polloi YouTube channel repairs a Roboskull toy from the Action Force line produced by Palitoy.

Tattooz from Lakeside

Released in 1982 by Lakeside, Tattooz were temporary transfer tattoos designed to give children the appearance of real body art without permanence.

Leave It to Beaver: Rocket to the Moon Space Game from Hasbro

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.

Star Wars Escape from Death Star from Kenner Products

“The Force can also be against you.”

Licensing and Entertainment

Funko celebrates 30 years of Spice Girls

The Spice Girls' 30th anniversary will be marked with an iconic collection including Pop! figures, Bitty Stages and Keychains.

Series 2 of My Friend Maisy gets greenlight at BBC

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.

Revell releases The Mandalorian and Grogu Movie vehicle range

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.

Moose Toys and Netflix expand master toy partnership

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 Unleashes New Bluey Pop! Vinyl Figures

Funko and BBC Studios are launching a licensed Bluey collection that transforms fan-favorite pups into Pop! vinyl figures.

Excitement Builds for Horizon Group USA’s Minecraft Activity Kits

Horizon Group USA is entering creative mode with Mojang Studios to craft a new line of activity kits inspired by 'Minecraft.'

Mattel Adds Live-Action ‘Moana’ Dolls to Disney Portfolio

The new line includes fashion and collector dolls.

‘Masha and the Bear’ Creator Launches New Studio, Plans Feature Film

Oleg Kuzovkov regains creative control of the franchise as Studio MiM begins work on a rebooted theatrical vision

Licensing Expo: Universal Expands ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Franchise Push

Consumer products, theme park experiences, and gaming partnerships fuel the franchise’s next growth phase.

World Series of Licensing Q&A: Jamie Stevens, Sony Pictures Entertainment

The studio behind 'The Boys' and 'Jumanji: Open World' strikes deals and builds programs tailor-made for the fandom.

JAKKS Pacific’s DC Collector Dolls Soar onto Walmart Shelves

JAKKS Pacific is powering up its portfolio with a new line of collectible dolls inspired by DC Comics’ classic heroes and villains. 

World Series of Licensing Q&A: Christa Pitts, The Lumistella Company

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.

World Series of Licensing Q&A: David Born, Born to License

"Licensing has to be a long-term vision, not a short-term experiment."

World Series of Licensing Q&A: Todd Lustgarten, Westbridge Licensing

The licensing exec repping Carlos Santana and Smokey Bear discusses the trends shaping the business today.

JAKKS Pacific Reveals Chomping Wonder Bowser Jr. Figure

JAKKS Pacific expands its The Super Mario Galaxy Movie collection with Chomping Wonder Bowser Jr., now available for preorders.

World Series of Licensing Q&A: Rachel Bader, Penguin Random House

Creating products that live beyond the page.

The Toy Book’s Licensing & Entertainment Issue is Here!

Timed with Licensing Expo, this issue is packed with exclusive features and hundreds of new toys and games.

Licensing Power: Unlocking the Value of Spin Master’s Biggest Brands

Spin Master heads to Licensing Expo with a stacked lineup and big plans for the future.

BBC Studios Expands ‘Bluey’ with Global Partnerships

BBC Studios expands the reach of ‘Bluey’ through live experiences, consumer products, and licensing partnerships.

You’ve Got Mail! The USPS Delivers an Expanded Licensing Program

USPS-branded toys, collectibles, and more are arriving at the doorstep and in the mailbox.

Bratz Celebrates 25 Years in Style with New Products, Podcasts, & Partnerships

For Bratz’s 25th anniversary, MGA Entertainment is strutting its stuff with new collaborations, collectibles, and content for all fans.

The LEGO Group Unveils Disney Main Street Building Set

The LEGO Group brings faith, trust, and pixie dust to fans with the launch of its LEGO Disney Main Street, U.S.A. set.

Hasbro Expands Franchise Experiences, Licensing Push at Licensing Expo

New attractions, dining concepts, collectibles, publishing, and retail partnerships spotlight the company’s franchise-first strategy.

Creativity for Kids Unveils New Disney STEAM Lineup

These hands-on kits will be available nationwide this fall.

Jakks Pacific Debuts Anime Division and Unveils New Protoypes at Licensing Expo

The prototypes are available to view at the hololive productions booth for the rest of the show.

Disney Lands Exclusive Streaming Rights to the Banana Bowl

The championship game for Banana Ball will stream live on Disney+ this October as part of a with the Savannah Bananas.

That’s Entertainment! The Toys Inspired by this Year’s Blockbuster Moments

With new iterations of Star Wars, Toy Story, and more hitting theaters, this year promises cinematic adventures packed with licensing potential.

Netflix, Ferrero Group Enter Global Partnership for Wonka Brand

Netflix is partnering with Ferrero Group to launch a new confectionery product range inspired by the Wonka universe.

Hasbro Expands Monopoly Collection with Formula 1 Board Game

Monopoly F1 Edition features popular Formula 1 teams and circuits.

Raising the Bar: Make Money with Licensing

Unlock new revenue streams and leverage your IP.

‘Rick And Morty’ Movie In Early Development At Warner Bros.; Jacob Hair In Talks To Direct

A 'Rick and Morty' movie is in early development at Warner Bros., with Jacob Hair in talks to direct, Deadline can confirm.

LEGO Poké Ball seemingly delayed for production reasons

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 made $966.59M at box-office

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has been a tremendous success for both Nintendo and animation studio Illumination.

The Super Mario Bros. movie directors head to Netflix

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.

Lego Donkey Kong coming soon, Nintendo reveals

Nintendo and Lego are teaming up again for a new release

@Hasbro Unveils New #MarvelLegends Action Figures Based on Marvel Animated Series, Marvel Comics and #SDCC Exclusives

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.

Smart Toys and Games to distribute Bopster Fidget Toys in UK and Ireland

The Bopster range includes a variety of tactile, collectible and sensory-driven toys designed to support focus, relaxation and everyday play.

Rainbow Designs appointed global master toy partner for Milo

Rainbow Designs will produce a wide range of products worldwide based on the iconic pre-school brand owned by DeAPlaneta Entertainment.

Freeway Fighter to be reimagined as AR Smart Book

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.

CATAN Studios Hints at Collaboration with Bluey

"Wackadoo! We've got something special coming up and we can barely contain our excitement."

People of Play

How an architect is healing Hongkongers’ ‘inner child’ with free sketches, figurines Cherry Yeung started handing out sketches to spread positivity. Now, her Cute Soulz project includes a doll that represents a person’s inner child.
Generation Media announces leadership expansion

Dean Weller says these leadership appointments reflect the strength of talent within Generation Media and will deliver more integrated, effective and future-focused solutions.

Michael Hick to take on new Mattel role

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.

The LEGO Group Appoints Beiersdorf CEO Vincent Warnery to Board

Consumer goods veteran joins LEGO A/S Board as the company continues evolving its global brand strategy.

Marvel Shake-up Continues; Buckley Moves On

The new executives are Brad Winderbaum as Head of Marvel Television, Animation, Comics & Franchise, and David Abdo as General Manager, Comics & Franchise.

People on the Move: Promotion and New Hire at Skybound

Blake Kobashigawa to VP, Katii O'Brien to Edit 'Capes'

“We need to stop being reactionary”: New GAMA president Meredith Placko on being data driven

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.

Target Names a New Supply-Chain Head as It Struggles With Weak Sales

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.

Meet “The College Cuber” Who Creates Live Rubik’s Cube Art

Dylan Sadiq, aka The College Cuber, creates massive portraits out of hundreds of Rubik’s Cubes, often building live at sports events.

Ted Wu’s Eye for Design and Business Acumen Have Found a Home at Mattel

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.

One For Fun welcomes Heather McAlister as Allen Murray retires

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.

Companies and Brands

Bricks & Minifigs and Santoki Launch Nationwide LEGO MOC Clock Building Contest

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.

From Movies to Merch: Disney Unveils Its Blockbuster Merch

Disney expands its Blockbuster Summer with its “Lights, Camera…Play!” campaign, featuring merch for Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel.

Sesame Workshop Promotes Mental Health for Moms in New Ad Campaign

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 Unveils Its Rebrand, Plus Four New Games

Taco Cat Games celebrates its rebranding with four original games that spark family connections and encourage screen-free fun.

Mattel’s ‘Masters’ Plan: The Summer of He-Man Begins

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.

The Snowball Effect: Pudgy Penguins

Despite lacking the ability to fly, Pudgy Penguins has truly taken off. Once a simple PNG, $PENGU is taking the plunge into consumer products.

Spin Master Unboxes OneZZZ Collectibles Ahead of Retail Rollout

The new line launches at Miniso this month before expanding to Walmart.com this summer.

Forever Fast: Sonic Celebrates 35 Years of Speed

SEGA's iconic hedgehog brings anniversary collabs at breakneck speeds.

Big Snack Attack

Food Brands Take A Bite Out of Retail with Playful Licensing Opportunities

The Hobby: Building Fandom, One Pack at a Time

Kayou has made a smooth transition into the U.S. market.

Designed to Disrupt

Two former-Loungefly execs have brought a new style to an established brand.

Hauck Debuts New Accessories for Its High Chair Collection

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. 

Pokémon: 30 Years of Catchin' Em All

Three decades in, the franchise continues to drive toys, collectibles, and licensing with unmatched global appeal.

‘Supergirl’ Soars in Warner Bros.’ Extensive Merch Collection

Ahead of the movie’s theatrical release, Warner Bros. is launching a ‘Supergirl’ merch collection featuring apparel, collectibles, and more.

The Lego Group partners with BAFTA to inspire next generation of creators

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'.

Müller enhances digital experience with Icecat Product Stories

Icecat Product Stories are dynamic, below-the-fold content modules that enrich product pages with structured visuals, key features and use-case-driven storytelling.

Commotion introduces Tickit SiliShapes Sensory Activity Maze

The innovative fidget-friendly design supports focus, fine motor development and creative expression, and expands the Tickit silicone range.

Lowe's is betting on MrBeast to drive 'lipstick effect' sales

Lowe's is partnering with the world's biggest YouTuber for a range of toys and in-store kids workshops.

Amazon Cuts Affiliate Commissions Up to 50% for Publishers

Publishers are scrambling to reorient their commerce businesses after the tech giant also gut reporting tools.

Insight #1 from the Licensing Expo: The Global Growth of Miraculous

Licensing Magazine explores the strategy behind its global growth, in a conversation with Roz Nowicki, Global Head of Consumer Products at Miraculous Corp.

Insight #2 from the Licensing Expo. Moomin Growing Expansion in the US Market

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.

Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Xbox hires game industry analyst Matthew Ball to lead strategy

The second major Xbox leadership changes this month.

Subnautica 2 has surpassed 2 million sales in 12 hours

The long-awaited sequel finally launched into early access following a high-profile legal battle between developer Unknown Worlds and publisher Krafton.

The Nex Playground is launching in the UK and Ireland

The controller-free console is heading overseas after outselling Xbox on U.S. soil during the 2025 holiday season.

Arc Raiders tops 16 million sales and could be heading to China

More than half of active Arc Raiders players spent over 100 hours in-game during Q1.

Sony increasing the price of PlayStation Plus for new customers

The change will effectively require new Essential subscribers to pay $1 more per month.

How the Nex Playground intends to become 'as big as the Wii'

After outselling Xbox in the United States, could the Nex Playground eventually eclipse one of Nintendo's best-selling consoles?

Hasbro cancels Dungeons & Dragons game led by Respawn veterans

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.

Highlighted Press Releases

OZ CREATIONS BRINGS EMPOWERING PLAY TO ASTRA WITH OLYMPIA® DOLL COLLECTION

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.

Safety and Regulatory

Ohio Legislation Introduced to Modernize Stuffed Toy Manufacturing Standards

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.

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

The Toy Association™ Introduces Alan G. Hassenfeld Humanitarian Award; Nominations Open May 20

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 Helps Deliver Joy to Bronx, NY Children at Spring Fling Giveaway

The Toy Foundation™ (TTF) was proud to support Giving Friends’ annual Spring Fling Giveaway, hosted in partnership with Pelham Bay Little League last month.

Nominations Open for 2027 Toy Industry Hall of Fame

The Toy Association™ announced that nominations are now open to submit candidates for induction into the 2027 Toy Industry Hall of Fame.

How to Boost Holiday Campaign Performance (June 11 Webinar)

Registration is now open for an upcoming Toy Association webinar designed to help brands build smarter, more effective holiday campaigns.

June 18 Webinar: How to Succeed on TikTok Shop

Registration is now open for an upcoming Toy Association webinar designed to help brands build smarter, more effective holiday campaigns.

Toymaster Awards Night celebrations take place

At Wednesday’s Awards Night, Toymaster honoured both suppliers and retailers for their hard work and dedication to the success of the toy sector.

KidultCon Heads to London as the U.K. Market Keeps Growing

The new event blends nostalgia, fandom, and immersive entertainment as brands continue chasing adult consumers.

Licensing Expo 2026 Returns with a Powerhouse Lineup

Licensing Expo returns to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center with more than 400 exhibitors and over 5,000 brands.

Bad Date Bears Swipes Right at Licensing Expo

The plush line brings dating culture humor to Las Vegas with Remarkable Brands.

From IP to IRL: Location-Based Experiences

Licensed properties step into physical spaces, transforming stories, characters, and gameplay into interactive experiences.

The world’s first-ever Pokémon-themed airport is opening in Japan this summer

With the goal of attracting visitors and bringing joy to local children, it’s got decorations, snacks and merchandise to match the new theme.

Iranian designer’s Persian folklore game about exorcising demons wins 2026 Cardboard Edison Award

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 announces return to Gamescom 2026 in August

Nintendo has announced that it will be returning to the annual Gamescom event in Cologne, Germany. 

Game Guru opens second location

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.

Comic Relief and Dungeons & Dragons launch ultimate Kynren adventure

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.

Thunderbolt Models to hold tribute event for Armed Forces Day

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.

Golden Teddy Awards for Jason Mahy and Allen Murray

The BTHA has presented Golden Teddy Awards to both Jason Mahy and Allen Murray during this week's Toymaster Show.

Mattel is Searching for the First Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal

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

Licensing Expo concludes with record-breaking show

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.

Strong support from exhibitors at the Spielwarenmesse for the Spirit of Play Foundation

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.

RIP - Rest in Play - Remembering Those that have Passed

Tom Kane

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)

  1. Everyone’s a winner… it’s the Friday Blog!
  2. MGA debuts L.O.L. Surprise! Plush Surprise
  3. Michael Hick to take on new Mattel role
  4. Simba Smoby showcases Star Wars RC at movie premiere events
  5. The Lego Group partners with BAFTA to inspire next generation of creators
  6. Commotion introduces Tickit SiliShapes Sensory Activity Maze
  7. Smart Toys and Games to distribute Bopster Fidget Toys in UK and Ireland
  8. One For Fun welcomes Heather McAlister as Allen Murray retires
  9. Toymaster Awards Night celebrations take place
  10. Generation Media announces leadership expansion

 

Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld

  1. Licensing Expo concludes with record-breaking show
  2. Exclusive: Disney on Toy Story 5’s upcoming retail activations
  3. Moose Toys and Netflix expand master toy partnership
  4. Hasbro reveals brand-new Monopoly F1 edition
  5. Funko celebrates 30 years of Spice Girls
  6. Rainbow Designs appointed global master toy partner for Milo
  7. Revell releases The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie vehicle range
  8. Bluey expands beyond the screen with new partnerships
  9. Series 2 of My Friend Maisy gets greenlight at BBC
  10. Volt Factor launches platform built to scale creator IP into global brands 

 

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.

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