According to a new report from the Toy Industry Association (TIA), the U.S. toy industry supports more than 491,000 jobs, generates $24.51 billion in wages, contributes $9.93 billion in combined state and federal taxes, and has a total annual economic impact in the U.S. of $76.71 billion. Nearly 98 percent of U.S. toy manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors are small businesses.
Month: April 2015
DC Collectibles to Release Justice League: Gods & Monsters Action Figures
DC Collectibles will launch a new 6-inch action figure line based on the upcoming direct-to-video DC Universe animated film, Justice League: Gods & Monsters. The first wave of figures will consist of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, and will be available in stores this fall.
The official trailer, featuring Justice League: Gods & Monsters producer and animator Bruce Timm, includes a preview of the action figure line:
COMMENTARY: Toy Shoppers Have More Tools at Their Disposal than Ever
Today’s toy shopping experience has become a combination—or choice—of in-person browsing, online price comparisons, and research in a way we’d previously never seen before the dawn of the smartphone. Gone are the days of browsing the aisles of a single store, limited to its inventory and prices. Competitors used to be a trip or a phone call away, and often, shoppers didn’t have the time or desire to drive around town in search of a slightly lower price.
Wonder Crew Successfully Funded on Kickstarter
The creators of Wonder Crew are trying to bring new elements to the mainstream blue aisle with its new line of dolls for boys. Wonder Crew was funded more than $40,000 during its successful 30-day Kickstarter campaign, resulting in approximately 500 pre-orders from 35 states and five continents.
Backers voted on the first adventure to go into production, selecting a superhero character as the first Crewmate.
Mattel and Quirky Partner to Re-imagine Play
Mattel and Quirky have entered an exclusive partnership to spark invention in toys, play, and more. Harnessing Quirky’s global community and Mattel’s iconic brands, the two companies will re-imagine Mattel’s portfolio of products to drive growth for brands such as Barbie, Fisher-Price, and Hot Wheels.
Mattel Reports First Quarter Financial Results
For the first quarter, Mattel Inc. reported worldwide net sales up 5 percent in constant currency, as well as reported worldwide net sales down 2 percent, reflecting the impact from changes in currency exchange rates. On a regional basis, first quarter gross sales increased 9 percent in constant currency, and 8 percent as reported in the North American region, which consists of the U.S., Canada, and American Girl. For the International region, gross sales increased 2 percent in constant currency, and decreased 14 percent as reported.
Douglas Company Expands Douglas Baby Line
Douglas Company has added to its Douglas Baby line with four new Sshlumpies, four new Lil’ Snugglers, and a new PlayTivity Blankee. The new additions are available now at specialty gift and toy stores in the U.S. and Canada.
TIA Creates Social Media How-To Guide for Sharing the Genius of Play
As part of The Genius of Play campaign, the Toy Industry Association (TIA) has kicked off an industry-wide social media initiative to open a dialogue with parents and raise awareness about the developmental benefits of play. TIA suggests that the social media posts range from encouraging kids and parents to engage in imaginative play, such as arts and crafts and dress up, to asking parents to share how toys and play helped their children reach important developmental milestones.
Toys “R” Us Raises More than $2 Million to Benefit Special Olympics
Toys “R” Us’ recent campaign to benefit Special Olympics, hosted at its stores across the U.S. and online at toysrus.com, raised more than $2 million. Throughout the duration of the eight-week awareness and fundraising program, Toys “R” Us customers pledged their support to help children with intellectual and developmental disabilities learn how to hit balls, run bases, take jump shots, and other sports moments.
ABC Hosts the First North American Pavilion at CBME SEA
From April 16 to 18, ABC Kids Expo is hosting the first North American Pavilion at the Children-Baby-Maternity Expo (CBME SEA) in Singapore. ABC has joined forces with the show organizer, UBM, to host the pavilion, which will feature exhibitors such as Baby K’tan, Bumkins, Itsy Bitsy Pantry, Kittrich, and Zoli.