Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!
Happy Bloomin' Friday!
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People of Play™ Shares Preview of Chicago Toy & Game Fair 2025 Activities
The Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG) 2025, produced by People of Play™ (POP), a division of The Toy Association™, is just around the corner — taking place November 8 to 9 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL— and consumers can look forward to a wide range of exciting activations and family-friendly experiences.
This year’s fair will feature exhibitors including LEGO, Just Play, TOMY, E-Blox, The Op Games, Crazy Aaron’s, Smart Toys, Wigglitz, and many more, plus raffles, giveaways, and hundreds of live toy and game demos.
Here’s a preview of just a few of the activations and highlights attendees can expect:
Young Inventor Challenge: 20th Anniversary Spotlight
Michael Gramelspacher
Name: Michael Gramelspacher, Toy & Game Inventor, Co-Owner of SG Labs, LLC
Products: DJ Bouncin' Beats from Fisher-Price & FurReal Handfuls from Just Play
Location: O'Fallon, IL (St. Louis Metropolitan area), St. Clare Catholic School
I wanted to be an inventor and engineer from the time I knew what those words meant. I finally found a home for my proclivity towards inventing in the toy and game industry. I am an electrical engineer by degree and have been a full-time professional inventor in the toy and game industry since 2008.
When my family moved to O'Fallon, IL in 2021, my school-age children attended St. Clare Catholic School. The school had a desire to expand their Technology Club and given my engineering background, they reached out to me hoping I could use my experience with toy and game invention as a fun way to integrate STEAM topics. I proposed an after-school game invention club to the principal, Monica Ybarra. She immediately approved it and supported me wholeheartedly!
Now in our fourth year in 2025, the club is open to 5th-8th graders and we average 20 student participants annually. The club meets weekly in the school's STEM lab, which we have been growing into a full-fledged maker space. Starting with the YIC Design Guide and the help of my co-coach Jon Harter (a fellow school parent and game enthusiast), we created a curriculum that schedules the steps outlined across the first 10 weeks of school leading up to the Young Inventor Challenge. We have been revising and hopefully improving our approach every season! READ MORE
(Note from Mary: It is the 20th Anniversary of the Young Inventor Challenge! We have BIG plans and would love to include you - be a sponsor, a judge or a volunteer. We appreciate all the help we can get to support the next generation of toy people! Contact Ahren Hoffman ahren@peopleofplay.com today.)

Throwback to 2021: Hidden Roles Podcast: Aaron Muderick invented Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty!
Meet Aaron and Other Inventors at CHITAG Fair!
Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!
Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to Kim Vandenbroucke for the cartoon this week.
Memorable Quotes: “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” ― Jane Goodall
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!
Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary
Happiest of Birthdays to our colleagues celebrating birthdays this past week!
William Textores
Katherine Kaiser
Jack Placidi
Christopher Byrne
Justin Aram
Graeme Thomson
Dan Klitsner
Jack Katz RIP
Raymond Lohr RIP
Kiana Rhodes
Jon Cohn
Marilyn Gordon-Jackson
Jeaneane McKinnon
Danny Joe LaBrecque
Beth Schlansky RIP
Greg Otero
Angus Walker
Richard Harris RIP
Roy Raizen RIP
Dekan Wheeler
Brent Geppert
The longer a small and medium-sized business (SMB) expects new U.S. tariffs to be in place, the greater the percentage of that cost they expect to pass along to consumers, according to a paper published Monday (Sept. 29) by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
"Everyone seems to be loving them: from children to kidults and Gen Z," Jellycat said about its toys in its 2024 financial report.
The business has been valued at US$14 billion, and China's ByteDance would own less than 20%.
In a milestone moment for women in the global toy industry, Crystal Chen, CEO of Tree Toys Corporation (Taiwan), and Fanny Ng, General Manager of Edu-Science H.K. Ltd, met this week at Edu-Science’s Shenzhen factory, headquarters to formalize a long-term partnership that will unite two of the most respected names in science toys.
Pop Mart previously let Labubu resale prices run to boost its popularity, but is now pivoting to a more sustainable model, research firm ChoZan said.
More than 90 per cent of Chinese consumers born after 1995 recognise the importance of emotional value and seek it in their spending.
Commissioned by Hornby Hobbies, the research reveals growing concern about digital overload and shows that more traditional hobbies like miniature model making are enjoying a resurgence.
By borrowing strategies from Disney, Pop Mart aims to expand its IP into content and theme parks despite growing competition in the art toy sector.
A new global study to mark Asmodee’s 30th anniversary has revealed that tabletop games are the breakout star of leisure time, rivaling video games and podcasts.
The success of the new film has spawned an influx of toys and accessories, with Walmart and Amazon among the retailers shilling official 'Gabby's' movie merch.
The French Toy market has so far this year delivered very positive results (+10 percent) in 7 months. This is something that hasn’t been seen in 25 years!
As manufacturers, retailers and news outlets start to release their lists of Top Toys for the holidays, Rick tells us what he’s betting big on for the festive season this year.
Back in the office this week, and it feels like everyone is using this ‘calm before the storm’ period to get ready for something – whether that’s next week’s BLE show, or the run-up to Black Friday / Christmas in general.
An intensive pre-launch community-building campaign has already powered Don't Starve: The Board Game to one of the biggest Kickstarter raises of 2025, with about $1.5m pledged less than 24 hours after the project's launch.
Stephen Barnes and Mark Buschhaus share with readers how trade has been for them recently.
Head of UK Retail Sales Kieran McNamara and Marketing manager Katie Hearne discuss Winning Moves' biggest successes this year - and what is still to come.
GUND launches 'Forever Friends Promise' initiative, a program designed to help kids hold onto their stuffed animals, even if they're damaged or lost.
In this episode, Chris talks to Jamie Zhang, Senior Director and CFO of Robosen.The company has made a splash with its super, sophisticated robots based on Buzz Lightyear and Optimus Prime.
Released in 1970, Milton Bradley’s Peg Craft was a colourful construction kit that let kids build creations using a single peg shape.
In 1986 and 1987, Milton Bradley introduced a line of one-player action and puzzle games called T.H.I.N.G.S., short for Totally Hilarious Incredibly Neat Games of Skill.
Nigel Cook, vice president, Brand Commercialisation and Retail, Disney Consumer Products, tells Toy World readers about the film’s legacy during its 30th anniversary year and its impact in toy licensing.
BrandZone is a new licensing division in collaboration with Consumer Product Connection that will focus on scouting and developing innovative IPs that connect with today’s audiences.
Craft Buddy has entered into a partnership with Sanrio to add Hello Kitty and Friends to its portfolio, with ranges launching next year.
"Homer's coming back for seconds", 20th Century Studios announced on Monday.
The latest trailer for the final season of My Hero Academia showcases the series from the perspective of our protagonist, highlighting how far he's come and building up hype ahead of the season's premiere.
The company builds on retail and category momentum as the brand approaches its 45th anniversary.
Fauna Entertainment secures early wins with fashion and stationery as Pilkey’s hit series goes global.
New ReAction figures and Super Duper Plush are here.
A digital-first reboot of the beloved series promoting kids literacy will launch on Sony's Kidzuko YouTube channel, featuring TikTok librarian Mychal Threets.
Target brings the world of Netflix's 'Stranger Things' to stores nationwide with new themed items and unique retail experiences.
Dobble: Animal Crossing edition contains 55 cards adorned with classic symbols and characters from the Animal Crossing series.
Stockholders of FuboTV approved a planned combination of the company with Hulu + Live TV to form a bigger platform that will be controlled by Disney.
Wicked has expanded their Wicked: For Good collection with two new Elphaba and Glinda singing dolls, modeled after Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
Amazon is developing a live-action series based on the Shani doll line with Mattel
Ready for a fresh dose of spooky style? Monster High and MGM Televison have teamed up to bring Bianca Barclay, the ultimate siren queen of Nevermore Academy, to life in doll form, and she’s dripping with glam you won’t want to miss.
This month, independent toy company MAJOR debuted its new Major Stars action figure line, which celebrates the larger-than-life personalities of pop culture icons.
Have you ever dreamed of owning your own Formula 1 (F1) car? Now, you can — thanks to Memento Exclusives and its F1 collectibles.
'Allies' Comes in Booster Packs
The new representation significantly expands Miraculous Corp’s successful six-year relationship with WildBrain CPLG across Germany, Switzerland, and Austria (GSA).
The latest update introduces Cinnamoroll, Pompompurin, and Keroppi, along with new packs and gifting events.
For The First Time, More Than 35,000 Marvel, Star Wars, Disney, Pixar and 20th Century Studios Digital Comic Books Will Be Available in One Digital Platform for Fans to Experience.
Web3's NFT-born brand Pudgy Penguins is partnering with Allstar Innovations to further expand its retail footprint.
The Bratz Hello Kitty Dolls feature Cloe, Yasmin, and Jade with kawaii-themed streetwear and accessories inspired by Hello Kitty.
'Zootopia 2' is one wild ride! As the sequel slithers towards theaters, Disney is celebrating with a whole herd of toys, collectibles, books, and other metropolitan merch.
Building on past success for YuMe, Series 3 will introduce eight Stranger Things characters with fresh poses, costumes and accessories, including fan favourites Eleven, Dustin, Will, Mike and Lucas.
Find this activity book at your local bookstore.
Azhelle Wade will be among the marketing mavens pitching ideas for brands like Dunkin' to Marshalls to Captain Morgan on the new NBC reality competition "On Brand with Jimmy Fallon," which premiered on Tuesday.
Silverman brings decades of franchise and brand leadership, including major wins with Barbie, Hot Wheels, Marvel, and Disney.
In an announcement, the company stated that Bowser would be succeeded by Devon Pritchard, formerly the company's executive vice president of revenue, marketing and consumer experience.
Michelle will bring her leadership skills and innovative perspective to Jazwares, to play a key role in advancing the company's marketing strategy.
Becky will lead the strategic management of ToyMonster's Walmart USA account, and drive new business development initiatives to grow ToyMonster's portfolio across the U.S. market.
Responsible for building a US$7-billion consumer products business, she will stay on until the end of the year as a consultant.
1001 Lives by Guillaume Achaz, Archéo III by Aymeric Duperray and Xavier Violeau, Black Flag by Thomas Paradis and Trashing Bird de David Exertier were all named as winners in the 44th Concours de Boulogne-Billancourt.
The designer and illustrator of co-operative card game Présages have both picked up awards in this year's Prix des Boutiques Ludiques, chosen by French board game retailers.
The 2025 edition of Preshow Noël will have a stronger international presence, as well as an expanded FanZone and many new visiting retailers.
The new name reflects the fact that the majority of the membership consists of people and businesses that are involved in the tabletop industry, and not necessarily other game manufacturing industries (such as slots, pinball, and arcade games).
Retailers Vernon Franklin and Philip Kaye were presented with awards by Yogi Parmar on behalf of the BTHA during a recent Toymaster regional event.
The 2026 event will take place during London Toy Fair on the evening of Wednesday, January 21st at 116 Pall Mall, a magnificent Georgian building in the heart of London.
Finalists feature companies like Jazwares, Ghoulish, Disguise, and more.
The company brings its full roster to NYCC.
Hasbro Pulse will be returning to MCM London Comic Con this October, also bringing a panel of Hasbro brand marketing and design members to share product reveals and first looks.
The award was received in the Digital Transformation category, which honors organizations that have embraced significant digital change, leading to improvements in operations and member engagement.
Exhibiting at the upcoming Toy Fair®, taking place February 14 to 17, 2026 at the Javits Center in New York City, is a powerful opportunity for toy and entertainment companies to elevate their brands, connect with key players in the industry, and unlock new business potential.
With more kids than ever eager to showcase their original ideas, judges are needed to review submissions, provide feedback, and help inspire the next generation of creators.
This year’s fair will feature exhibitors including LEGO, Just Play, TOMY, E-Blox, The Op Games, Crazy Aaron’s, Smart Toys, Wigglitz, and many more, plus raffles, giveaways, and hundreds of live toy and game demos.
To create these impactful moments, The Toy Foundation’s (TTF) Toy Chest (formerly known as the Toy Bank) counts on industry donations to be able to deliver thousands of toys to children in need.
The retailer is also highlighting thousands of toys it will offer under $20, as a way to emphasize value.
Hasbro said the move will create hundreds of jobs.
It’s been 18 years since Magic: The Gathering first visited Lorwyn–Shadowmoor, a fantastical setting inspired by Celtic folklore. But early next year, fans will finally return to that world in Lorwyn Eclipsed.
Ousmane Dembélé, Ronaldinho and Cole Palmer feature as Match Attax takes over UK schools with its vibrant 3D ad van campaign.
The Official Fourth Wing: Rise of the Wingleader Game take players on a canon-true journey through Basgiath War College.
From spring 2026, the partnership will debut with a rollout of IMC brands including Cry Babies, Bloopies and Baby Paws, plus new developments to follow.
The line encourages kids to engage in imaginative play based on real-world interactions.
The retailer is looking to capitalize on the collectibles craze by attracting new investors to its chain that rivals Labubu's Pop Mart.
Spencer Gifts is tripling the footprint of its holiday pop-up chain this year, with all stores featuring photo opps with Santa to attract families.
With Fisher-Price's Mini Me Moments playsets, babies can parrot their parents’ hobbies, from sports to self-care, with kid-friendly replicas of real objects.
The first line to be shared, on store shelves before the end of this year, is the Magic: The Gathering — Final Fantasy collection.
Blokees' five-range festive line-up features licensed ranges from Sesame Street, Minions, Naruto, Ultraman and Evangelion.
Hong Kong-based toymaker expands west with a veteran leadership team and a mission to deliver safe, affordable fun.
The Nyíregyháza site grows to more than double its original size, adding capacity, jobs, and a commitment to renewable energy.
Barbie is celebrating Rita Moreno with a special-edition Barbie doll made in her likeness.
The marketing drive will ensure Ultimate Stitch and Just Play’s wider Disney Stitch range achieve maximum visibility throughout the season.
Medicom Toy Co. is pleased to announce that it has entered into a capital and business alliance with Integral Co., Ltd. and its affiliated company-operated fund.
The LEGO Group marked a milestone in Chesterfield County with the final steel beam raised on its 1.7 million-square-foot U.S. factory, set to begin production in 2027.
Enthusiasts can purchase through Amazon now and at other retailers this fall.
Available globally beginning November 1, the collectible is modeled after the game’s iconic Race Car token, designed to look just as at home on the game board as it does speeding around a Hot Wheels track.
The previous three-year agreement expired in July; negotiations on a new contract began in April.
In 1980, the world of arcade games got a jolt that changed the gaming world forever. That’s when a round yellow fellow with a large set of chompers known as Pac-Man first came on the scene.
Microsoft announced Wednesday that the price for its Game Pass Ultimate subscription will jump by 50% to $29.99 per month, effective immediately.
A consortium that includes Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund has agreed to acquire the Battlefield and EA Sports FC maker in a deal worth $55 billion.
The new business will be overseen by managing director, Takahiro Miura.
The news comes after upcoming title Contraband, which was being developed in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios Publishing, was placed on hold.
The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show convention has been underway and TT Games were there with a LEGO booth which featured a variety of classic LEGO games under the Nintendo Switch 2 banner.
The Nintendo Switch has been a surefire hit since its launch in March 2017 and new data from Japan has revealed that the system has now sold over 36,005,504 units in the country.
Bandai Namco along with other developers aren’t having much success with battle royale-style titles and it has announced that one is closing down on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
A fake Labubu doll has been seized after it was found to pose a “serious chemical risk” to members of the public.
family is organizing a celebration of Mike's life on Friday, October 10 in Livermore, CA, and Emily has extended an invitation to us all. Here's the link to the celebration details and to RSVP: https://www.paperlesspost.com/go/YrARQ2qCpRW3yETWWKQZV
A visionary leader at the intersection of toys, technology, and payments, Don served as President of Consumer Products at Atari. In 1985 he co-founded Worlds of Wonder, launching Teddy Ruxpin and Lazer Tag, and helping bring the Nintendo Entertainment System to major U.S. retailers.
Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories
Some Added Friday Morning. 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 Reveals 2026 'Magic: The Gathering' Lineup
- Review: 'Tiny Tina's Wonderlands: The Chaos Chamber' (Card Game)
- Stonemaier Games Announces 'Origin Story'
- Asmodee Will Release New 'LotR: Duel for Middle-earth' Expansion
- 'Magic: The Gathering' Cosmic Soul Stone Sells for $19,500 on eBay
- GAMA Board Renames GAMA
- 'Magic: The Gathering' Threatens to Jump the Shark
- Rolling for Initiative -- A Flood of Sets Hitting Standard
- PRH Reveals 'D&D: Player's Workbook of Epic Adventures'
- Gamegenic Will Release 'Dungeon PRO'
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
What are you waiting for? We've got the most powerful platform in our industry!
Join here: www.peopleofplay.com
