The toy industry and its adjacent partners are awash with news. The Toy Book’s Daily Pulse provides the latest happenings in the industry to keep you informed and #pulseofplay. Learn more about Toutiao and click on the links for more details.
Paramount, Hasbro debut new ‘Transformers: Episode I’ trailer
Transformers One Tells the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, who were known as sworn enemies but were once friends like brothers and changed the fate of Cybertron forever. Transformers One The voice cast features a star-studded cast including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan McCoy, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne and Jon Hamm. To learn more about the film, see the September issue toy book!
Toy:
Melissa & Doug launches Ocean Easy-Fold baby fitness equipment
Carefully designed with children’s development in mind, the brand’s first-ever play gym is the latest addition to its existing range of infant and toddler toys, stimulating learning and skill-building at every stage. Melissa & Doug conducted extensive research with parents to understand their needs and address the pain points they experienced with their existing playgrounds. learn more…
Ice Spice launches Funko POP! treat
POP! will be available exclusively at Funko.com and the Ice Spice official music store from July 31st to August 8th. The Grammy-nominated rapper’s work is sure to add a touch of nostalgia to fans’ music collections. Pop music! Rocks Vinyl figure measures approximately 3.25 inches tall. learn more…
license:
Keanu Reeves’ BRZRKER gets consumer product plan
Last year, Boom Studios appointed IMG to develop BRZRKR’s global licensing program. Partners announced in conjunction with SDCC include artist Todd McFarlane’s McFarlane Toys for action figures and collectibles; toys and collectibles inspired by Youtooz internet culture; RJ Bullion for gold bars, collectible coins and miniatures; and Iconiq Studios for board games and Collection. In addition, Medicom, Diamond Select Toys, Prime 1 and Bellfine will develop a line of toys, action figures and collectibles based on the series. The BRZRKR licensing program also includes a collection of metallic posters with Displate, featuring some of the series’ most iconic visuals. learn more…
Cloudco launches new nursing bear plush toy discount
Cloudco Entertainment, owner of the beloved Care Bears brand, has signed new plush partnerships with Simba Dickie Group (EU), Dan Dee International (seasonal plush toys for the US and Canada) and Grupo Ruz (Mexico) .
“We are honored to continue our partnership with the Care Bears brand to bring their cherished characters and timeless message of love and care to our wide audience,” said Menal McGrath, Senior Vice President of Global Licensing at Dan Dee International. Dan Dee’s Care Bears Plush Product rollout will begin in early 2025.
Dark Horse, Wizards of the Coast Ink Publishing Deal
Dark Horse Comics and Hasbro Wizards of the Coast will launch a new publishing series in 2025 that will expand the worlds of Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering with comics and graphic novels. The officially licensed publishing program will feature original stories based on fantasy role-playing and trading card games.
“Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering are two legendary games with incredibly strong fan bases and world-building gameplay,” said Marianne James, senior vice president of licensed consumer products at Hasbro . “We are committed to expanding these areas through unique branded products and world-class partnerships, ultimately bringing players and fans new and exciting ways to interact with these iconic franchise brands.” With Dark Horse Comics’ licensed publishing program, we anticipate there will be a lot of excitement around new artwork and creative storytelling. Learn more…
retail:
POP MART announces San Diego store plans
POP MART POP MART will open a new store at Westfield UTC in San Diego on August 3rd. The opening coincides with the annual San Diego Comic-Con International, which celebrates pop culture with exclusive content and merchandise. learn more…
game:
Miraculous Corp and Nex bring Miraculous Active Runner game to Nex Playground
Miraculous Ladybug: Paris Dash Will be available for the first time in the US later this fall, exclusively on the award-winning Nex Playground console (reviewed in Toy Insider).
“With its sophisticated design and simple setup, Nex Playground transforms the living room into an active digital play space for the family,” said Julian Jacob, chief operating officer of Miraculous Corp. “We are confident that our Miraculous fans around the world will be delighted to be standing in the scoop. Move your body in Bug’s Shoes and use arm gestures to save Marinette’s beloved city of Paris from the evil villain.
Op Games partners with Sanrio to launch Yahtzee: My Melody
Join My Melody from Hello Kitty and Friends in a fun-filled adventure with Yahtzee: My Melody. Featuring custom-designed dice, adorable artwork, and a custom My Melody dice cup with a bow on the hood, this Yahtzee will delight fans of all ages. learn more…
entertainment:
rainbow Mermaid magic (from the creators of Winx) Go to Netflix
Dive into the mesmerizing underwater world of Mertropia with this visually stunning collection advocating for the conservation of our oceans and marine life. Mermaid Magic spreads important environmental messages to children and their parents and encourages everyone to take even the smallest action to make a difference. The series will premiere on Netflix on August 22. learn more…
people:
Lansino welcomes Julie Kelly as President, North America
Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and more than 20 years of experience in consumer products marketing, sales, product development and general management to the Lansinoh team. Her valuable insights, combined with her ability to establish and execute a clear vision, enable her to drive incremental growth for Lansinoh in the U.S. and Canadian markets.
CandyRific names Shayne Quinn executive vice president of sales
Quinn comes to CandyRific with 25 years of experience in the candy industry. At CandyRific, Quinn is responsible for leading the entire sales organization and its network of brokers. In his previous roles in the industry, he managed all categories of trade including food, pharmaceuticals, mass, value, professional and broker relationships.
