Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!

Happy Bloomin’ Friday!

The Licensing Show wrapped up this week with record-breaking attendance. Although I wasn’t there, the photos and posts shared by many captured the excitement and energy of the event. Keeping the momentum going, this week's featured interview is with PlayMonster President Jonathan Berkowitz, who shares the incredible Hacky Sack story. Jonathan and last week's featured guest, Matt Proulx, previously worked together at Hasbro—our industry is a small world built on great relationships.

Now’s your chance to recognize colleagues who have made a difference in our industry. Nominations are open for the 2027 Toy Association's Alan G. Hassenfeld Humanitarian Award and the Hall of Fame. Alan is deeply missed by so many of us and remembered not only for his extraordinary leadership, but for his generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

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Jonathan Berkowitz, CEO of PlayMonster, Talks Hacky Sacks, Gen Z Trends, and the Value of Simplicity

Hey Jonathan! Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us. To start off, Hacky Sack has seen a noticeable resurgence across social media and pop culture. What do you think is driving renewed interest in this classic playground pastime?
We recognized early on that consumers – and particularly teens and young adults – are gravitating toward activities that feel authentic, social, and low-pressure, especially in a world that’s increasingly digital. Hacky Sack naturally delivers on all of those needs, and we’ve intentionally leaned into this cultural shift to relaunch the brand and bring the game back into the spotlight both online and offline. It’s simple, accessible fun, and that’s resonating with people right now.

How has PlayMonster tapped into nostalgia while also making Hacky Sack relevant for a new generation of consumers?
Hacky Sack fits seamlessly into how today’s kids and young adults want to connect – through active, social, shared experiences. When we relaunched Hacky Sack this spring, we focused on modernizing how today’s consumers could discover and connect with the brand... READ MORE

The Association for Games and Puzzles International Announce Speakers and Outstanding Achievement Honoree

The Association for Games and Puzzles International (AGPI) invites you to their 2026 Annual Convention in Bloomington, Minnesota, our first convention in Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes! The annual convention includes guest speakers, expert workshops and seminars, panel discussions, “Show & Tell”, an auction, and game buying and selling.
 
AGPI members Nadine Sehnert and Mike Tangedal are the 2026 convention hosts and the main AGPI convention events will take place from Friday evening, July 10, 2026 through Sunday noon, July 12, and will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis Airport located at 2020 American Boulevard East, Bloomington, Minnesota.
 
2026 Speakers Include:
Julien Sharp: General Manager, Asmodee North America
Mirek Stolee: Curator for Games and Puzzles at The Strong National Museum of Play
Martin Grider: Game designer and owner of Abstract Puzzle game studio
Melanie Rice: Founder, RCS Minnesota Puzzles
Bob Finn: AGPI Member and co-website administrator of AGPI Website (gamesandpuzzles.org)

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: “Success is attaining your dream while helping others to benefit from that dream materializing.”  – Sugar Ray Leonard 

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

Tomas Ahjopalo
Erica Hernandez-Wieczorek
Rieko Kodama
Ignacio del Valle Sierra
James Ward
Todd Jacobs
Harry Bradley
Bob Ferron
Ivan Coronas
Erik Quam
Tom Kremer
Mark Hatherill
Gwendolyn Taylor
Patrick Girvin
Ana Montoya-Wade
Robert Bernhard
Vance Manchester
Colleen Kelley

 

Financial, Legal and Tariffs

Asmodee’s annual revenue surges to €1.68bn on TCG distribution power, but sales of its own board games fall - Asmodee’s escalating power as a global TCG distribution giant was evident again in its newly-released annual results, which showed the company’s net sales surging 23% year-on-year to more than €1.68bn.
Tariff Refunds Create a New Test for Middle Market Resilience

On the face of it, tariff refunds are slated to restore cash to firms. Instead, for many middle market firms, it has introduced a different question: who can wait?

Ex-MGA toy designer charged with stealing $1 million in miniature cars from Chatsworth company

Investigators seized more than $1 million worth of the collectibles from the Simi Valley man’s residence, according to the District Attorney’s Office. He has pleaded not guilty.

Stories, Comments, and Advice

Submit Your New Products for The Toy Book’s ‘Action, Adventure, & Mystery’ Issue!

The clock is ticking to get your toys and games into Toy Book's summer spectacular!

Action figures: An increasingly durable category

Kids and collectors are sticking with the category across generations—but with that increased staying power comes higher expectations.

Get involved in the School Ready feature (Toy World)

The July edition of Toy World will contain a selection of focused category features including, for the first time ever, School Ready.

Can Dungeons & Dragons roll with Gen Alpha?

Hasbro and Basic Fun! are teaming up to age down the beloved RPG to create a new generation of fans.

Nurturing Caring Through Play: Peanuts Exhibition Opens at The Strong

The Strong National Museum of Play welcomes Take Care with Peanuts: The Exhibit as part of its summer exhibition schedule.

Grand Rapids board game cafe invests $1M to revive former Fat Boy diner

Kobold's Kitchen plans June opening after $1 million renovation of the former Fat Boy restaurant location in the Creston neighborhood. 

Here’s the Real Reason Why Tennis Balls Are Bright Yellow

Once upon a time, tennis balls had a whole different vibe. Now they're serving looks in neon—and for a very good reason.

History and Nostalgia

Flashback: Top Licensed Toys from 1996

A quick look at some of the hottest toys from 30 years ago.

Where’s the Fun From? – Twister

In this installment from his YouTube series, Where’s the Fun From?, guest contributor Tim Walsh explores the origins of Twister.

Robin Hood from Parker Brothers

Published in 1973, the Robin Hood board game reflected the story as interpreted by the animated film from Walt Disney Productions.

Colossal Cars Collection from Monogram

Monogram’s Colossal Cars line brought oversized 1/8th scale model kits to store shelves in 1976, including the Big “T” Street Rod, ’65 Corvette Sting Ray, and Jaguar XKE.

Licensing and Entertainment

Simba Smoby showcases Star Wars RC at movie premiere events

Authentic styling in keeping with the new movie has meant the RC has proved a hit, and Simba Smoby says its marketing support is a force to be reckoned with.

Hasbro reveals brand-new Monopoly F1 edition

In this new version of Monopoly, players can choose their favourite F1 Team and race around a bespoke board inspired by iconic circuits from across the world.

HTI to launch new Puzzle Palz inspired by Harry Potter and DC

Fans will now be able to discover characters like Harry Potter, Professor Dumbledore, Batman, Superman and more in Puzzle Palz form.

Warner Bros. Discovery launches global Supergirl product collection

The global collection spans toys & collectibles, fashion & accessories, publishing and more to celebrate the new film and classic Supergirl imagery. Warner Bros.

Mighty Boards forges UK distribution partnership with Zatu Distribution

Award-winning titles like Rebirth and new hits Pinched!, Tenby and Red North are set to reach more UK tabletops with this partnership.

BMW Group and the Lego Group celebrate the BMW M3 E30

To mark the 40th anniversary of the BMW M3 E30, the Lego Group and the BMW Group have come together to extend their collaboration with a special project.

PBS Partners with Sesame Workshop for Wild New Episode of ‘Nature’

For the 'Nature’s 45th season, PBS is partnering with Sesame Workshop, BBC, and more to bring fans face-to-face with flora and fauna. 

Old World Christmas Expands Ornament Lineup With Music and Literary Partnerships

Old World Christmas expands its licensed ornament portfolio for 2026 with new partnerships spanning music, food, and publishing, including collections inspired by Elvis Presley, Def Leppard, Bee Gees, and Kiss.

ACD Distribution Announces Exclusive Agreement with Incredible Dream

For Distribution of 'Mechs vs. Minions' Product Line

Topps unveils 2025/26 Chrome Arsenal collection

After an unforgettable 2025/26 season, Arsenal supporters can celebrate a legendary campaign with the new Topps Chrome Arsenal collection.

Animaj and Hasbro’s Lumee ad house to rep Disney’s YouTube portfolio

The joint-venture created to navigate the challenging ad landscape for online kids content will handle sales for 65 Mouse House channels in the US.

Toho Greenlights Third Season of Cult Anime ‘Dorohedoro’

The first two seasons of the dark-fantasy series, based on Q Hayashida's 18-year manga and produced by Jujutsu Kaisen studio MAPPA, are now streaming on Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu/Disney+ and Rakuten Viki.

The Playful Pursuit of Philately (Boundless Play)

Why do I collect postage stamps? by Graham C. Scott

BTS Is Teaming Up with Oreo for Limited-Edition Cookies Inspired by Popular Korean Treat

The new Oreos feature the flavors of hotteok, a brown sugar–stuffed pancake, along with the brand's first-ever purple wafers.

People of Play

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.

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz's 2026 Wharton Undergraduate Graduation Speech

Watch Ynon Kreiz (PAR’26), Chairman and CEO of Mattel, Inc., deliver his graduation speech at the 2026 Wharton Undergraduate Graduation ceremony.

“Play is evolving…”: Hasbro’s Tim Kilpin talks kids, Kidults and KPop Demon Hunters

Tim Kilpin, Hasbro’s President of Toys, Board Games, Licensing and Entertainment, on recent highlights – and things to get excited about.

Anton Rabie Offer A Piece of Advice

The people you're around. The conversations you're having. The books you're reading. The advisors in your corner. All of it shapes how you think, how you lead, and how far you go.

The Jim Henson Company taps Shirley Bowers to lead distribution

Plus, Mike Katzman, who’s been leading Blippi’s growth, is now tasked with CoComelon's franchise strategy, too.

Companies and Brands

Bandai Expands The Tamagotchi Paradise Universe With New Device Shells, Accessories, And Collectibles

Tamagotchi Paradise reimagines virtual pet nurturing with a built-in telescopic Zoom Dial, letting players shift between macro and micro perspectives — from observing a character’s cell composition to watching an entire Tamagotchi Planet flourish.

The Bedtime Battle and Why SleepToy is Reimagining Evening Routines

Discover how SleepToy is tackling the daily bedtime battle and reimagining evening routines for families with an innovative approach to children's toys....

Walmart Debuts Program to Streamline Distribution Network

Walmart has introduced a logistics strategy designed to simplify the way suppliers move products into its distribution network.

MGA debuts L.O.L. Surprise! Plush Surprise

As the brand celebrates its 10th anniversary milestone, the new launch from L.O.L. Surprise! is perfectly timed for Half Term sales opportunities.

Mattel searches for first Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal

Entries will be judged by some of the biggest names in the automotive industry, including F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali and F1 Champion Jenson Button.

The Entertainer enhances product pages with Icecat Product Stories

By integrating Product Stories, The Toy Shop enhances its product detail pages with richer and more interactive content.

Zuru launches Starbox collectibles

The Starbox range features Nook Nooks, Sad Baby Animals, Sad Baby Care Bears and more, ideal for the growing Kidult market.

Plants vs. Zombies: The Board Game Is Coming to Kickstarter

Mantic Games is launching a Kickstarter campaign this fall for the official licensed Plants vs. Zombies: The Board Game.

Fun In Motion Toys Debuts Shashibo Canvas Art Kit at Astra

Fun In Motion Toys expands with a new series of Shashibo toys, including the launch of the Shashibo Canvas Art Kit.

Crayola Teams Up with Burger King on New Themed King Jr. Meal

Families can find the meals beginning June 9.

Cryptozoic Revives Cryptkins with New Kickstarter Campaign

They do exist! Cryptozoic Entertainment is bringing back its creepy-cute collectible brand Cryptkins with a new Kickstarter campaign. 

Hasbro Brings Back 'Crossfire'

Popular Marble Shooting Game Will Release into U.S. Hobby Retail

Ravensburger launches 3D Puzzle Vase series

Each of the 162-piece vase puzzles measures 18cm when built and includes a waterproof liner making them ideal for a fresh flower display.

Mattel Brick Shop Expands with Seven Hot Wheels Sets

Mattel Brick Shop and Hot Wheels are launch seven new sets featuring vehicle partnerships with Lamborghini, Chevrolet, and more.

Hasbro opens world's first Monopoly Steakhouse in Mexico

Gastronomic concept inspired by the world’s favourite board game

Hasbro's Secrets for Top Licensing Programs

Matt Proulx, senior vice president, global experiences, partnerships and music, Hasbro, discusses how Hasbro keeps coming out on top, and what’s next for the company.

Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Destiny 2's active development to end in June

The game's next live service content update will be its last.

Nintendo Switch 2 production estimates contrast hardware forecast

The company is reportedly planning to assemble 20 million units during the current fiscal year—a total that exceeds its latest hardware sales forecast.

Online child safety campaigners call for US inquiry into Roblox

Groups claim game platform’s design and business model conflict with children’s developmental needs

Pokemon series has now sold over 515 million software units worldwide

The Pokemon Company has announced today that the Pokemon series of video games have now sold over 515 million units worldwide since its inception back in 1996.

Rayman Legends remake is called Rayman Legends Retold coming October

The Rayman Legends remake which has been in development at Ubisoft appears to be titled Rayman Legends Retold.

007 First Light sells 1.5 million copies in 24 hours

It seems the hype for the new James Bond game from IO Interactive, 007 First Light, was deserved given some of the review scores the game has received over on Metacritic.

Donkey Kong 64 is coming to Nintendo Classics on Switch Online

The 1999 game will be added on Wednesday, June 3, for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, Bluey, and More Lead This Week’s Gaming News

The Heelers take over Apple Arcade while Aang bends the elements across titles and platforms.

Video game pioneer Atari relocates its headquarters to Luxembourg

The long-established US company is leaving France for the Grand Duchy in July

Highlighted Press Releases

PLAYCOR BRINGS SOPHISTICATED BABY TOY SENSIBILITY TO SPECIALTY AT THIS YEAR’S ASTRA MARKETPLACE

Toys for babies and kids are important for their development into imaginative, intelligent little people – but giving your children the world doesn’t have to mean giving up on a cohesive living space! These toys can be technicolor jumbles that clash with an aesthetically-minded and intentional home. But that’s where Playcor comes in, showcasing for the first time at Astra Marketplace & Academy in Milwaukee June 5-8 at the Baird Convention Center in The Toy Coach’s Booth #435!

MOOSH-MOOSH AQUA BRINGS PLUSH POWER TO SUMMERTIME WATER PLAY

 We all see it this time of year: kids start the countdown until they can play in the backyard pool, head to the beach, or enjoy other water activities. They are just waiting for the water to warm up so they can jump straight in and officially welcome summer 2026. For kids with beloved plush pals and a yearning need for raucous water play, it’s always been an either-or situation – you can’t have both. That is, until now!

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

Crunchyroll 2026 Anime Awards: All winners and nominees

The 10th Crunchyroll Anime Awards celebrated a big year for anime series like Dan Da Dan and The Apothecary Diaries, which led the group with nominations.

Toy Trust to raise money for charity with cycle challenge

Seven riders from across the industry are set to cycle from London to Paris in 24 hours, covering 188 miles, for charity.

VR Distribution returns to UK Games Expo with curated line-up

Visitors to UK Games Expo can expect to get hands on with games such as Magical Athlete, Hot Streak and the UK retail rollout of Skyjo.

Toymaster concludes another successful show in Harrogate

The DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa hosted another successful Toymaster May Show this year from 19th-21st May. Toy World reports back on the event.

Preview: Brand Licensing Europe 2026

The momentum from Licensing Expo continues in London.

Master Toys Returns to Astra Marketplace

The longtime toy company showcases sensory toys, mini collectibles, bubbles, and impulse items.

Baby Jack & Co. Brings Its Signature Lovey to Astra

Baby Jack & Co. welcomes Astra to Milwaukee and will debut its Lovey multi-sensory toys at the trade show.

North East Toy and Gift Show Returns for Third Year

Retailers and manufacturers connect ahead of fourth quarter sales.

Licensing Expo 2026 Wraps with Record-Breaking Attendance

Licensing Expo 2026 has officially come to a close with record-high levels of participation, setting the stage for a year of major growth.

Oz Creations To Debut Olympia Doll Collection at Astra Marketplace

These Greek goddess dolls will be showcased at Booth No. 1831.

Playcor Heads to Astra with Decor-Friendly Developmental Toys

Playcor is making its first-ever appearance at Astra Marketplace & Academy this year at The Toy Coach’s Booth No. 435.

Team Genius Squad Makes Astra Debut

The mother-daughter founders introduce hands-on learning kits and plush companions designed to make STEAM more accessible.

Here are the Canadian Screen Awards kids winners

Odd Squad and Old Enough took home multiple trophies at the children's-focused ceremony.

New Universal Kids Resort In Texas Sets July Opening

Universal Kids Resort, designed for families with young children, will officially open on July 1 in Frisco, Texas.

When paleontology meets Pokémon, at the Field Museum

Pokémon fossils and real fossils are displayed side-by-side in a new exhibit at the Field Museum

The LEGO Foundation donates $97 million to bring play-based learning to over 5 million children in conflict zones

The partnership, with the International Rescue Committee, is expected to touch over five million children in conflict zones over the next five years.

Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories

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

Video of the Week

What toys have kids played with throughout history?

POP Classifieds - Free and Easy

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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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