This new honor “celebrates the inventive ideas and achievements that make Halloween such a magical time of year,” including costumes, accessories, and decor. According to the HCA, “these finalists represent the brilliance that shapes our industry.”
Designed for teens and adult collectors alike, this collection of surprise toys features four ways to collect iconic characters and imagery from the series. The Mystery Surprise Toilet features a spring-loaded pop-up head and makes realistic flushing sounds. Inside the toilet, teens can find collectible figures, stickers, and more.
The collectible figures can also be found in the Mystery Figure Collector Series, which features eight figures including Cameraman, Speakerman, Skibidi Toilet, Speakerwoman, TV Man, G-Toilet, Plungerman, and TV Woman. These characters are also available in the Mystery Mini Figures series. The collection is rounded off with a set of Mystery Plush, which includes Cameraman, Speakerman, Skibidi Toilet, and TV Man.
“The Skibidi Toilet toys bring an exciting, immersive experience to fans worldwide,” says Brian Bonnett, CEO of Bonkers Toys. “The toy line perfectly captures the classic good-versus-evil battle play of the sci-fi series, with epic Skibidi humor thrown in. Now fans of Skibidi Toilet all over the world can build their collection of Skibidi Toilet characters and create their own action and adventure at home.”
“Play and creativity have always been at the heart of what Boom created with Skibidi,” says Adam Goodman, Founder of Invisible Narratives and rights holder of the Skibidi Toilet IP. “The Bonkers toy line is the next stage of evolution for Skibidi, offering fans worldwide tangible representations of these iconic characters.”
The Skibidi Toilet Mystery collection is available now at major retailers, including Amazon, Target, and Walmart, and select specialty retailers across the U.S.
Windy City Novelties has acquired U.S. Toy Co., expanding its role as a leading supplier of party supplies, light-up toys, and novelties. The acquisition will diversify Windy City’s product portfolio and strengthen its position in the novelty industry.
“The acquisition of U.S. Toy aligns perfectly with our mission to provide fun and innovative products that bring joy to every celebration,” says Jeffrey Schrimmer, President of Windy City Novelties. “We look forward to continuing the legacy of excellence that U.S. Toy has established over the years.”
U.S. Toy’s commercial division will maintain the current leadership of Jack Rollin and Don Dewitt, and the Specialty Toy Division will be led by Doug Bordegon, Bill Bordegon, and Jeff Bunkowske.
I am never a fan of change but this one seems to be a no-brainer, the Windy City team and assortment will only add to the already amazing things we have done here and continue to allow us to grow in the market and offer even better service for our customers."
— Jeff Bunkowske, U.S. Toy Co.
The acquisition will allow Windy City to serve existing customers better while expanding into new markets. The combined company will benefit from increased operational efficiency, product availability, and competitive pricing. Constructive Playthings, a division of U.S. Toy, will remain independently operated by the family ownership.
The first East Coast and Gulf Coast port strike since 1977 is in effect.
Workers hit the picket lines at 12:01 am today as the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) failed to come to an agreement prior to the six-year master contract expiring last night. In recent months, the union and the USMX have publicly clashed and butted heads over wages, benefits, and automation.
This morning, the National Retail Federation (NRF) issued a statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay calling upon the Biden Administration to step in stop the strike.
NRF urges President Biden to use any and all available authority and tools — including use of the Taft-Hartley Act — to immediately restore operations at all impacted container ports, get the parties back to the negotiating table and ensure there are no further disruptions."
— Matthew Shay, President & CEO, National Retail Federation
While the overall financial impact of the strikes on the U.S. toy industry is unknown, estimates on the total impact of the strike on the U.S. economy vary. According to The Conference Board, a one-week shut down could cost the economy $3.78 billion while simultaneously spiking inflation as consumers grapple with higher costs on products across the board.
“A disruption of this scale during this pivotal moment in our nation’s economic recovery will have devastating consequences for American workers, their families and local communities,” Shay adds. “After more than two years of runaway inflationary pressures and in the midst of recovery from Hurricane Helene, this strike will result in further hardship for American families. The administration must prioritize our economy — and the millions of Americans who depend on it for their livelihood and wellbeing — and intervene immediately to prevent further hardship and deeper economic consequences.”
“The president can protect manufacturers and consumers by exercising his authority, and we hope he will act quickly,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons.
Thus far, Biden still rejects the idea, telling reporters on Sunday, “It’s collective bargaining. I don’t believe in Taft-Hartley,” according to CNBC.
Toy Industry Concerns, Preparation, Echoes of the Past
The lead-up to this year’s Presidential election between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald J. Trump is serving up echoes of a few years ago, with talk of tariffs, inflation, and rising freight costs grabbing headlines once more. According to the NRF, the 11-day strike on West Coast ports in 2022 may have cost the U.S. economy $1 billion a day while creating a six-month jam-up.
While nuanced, the port strike presents several challenges for the U.S. toy industry. Most major toymakers and their retail partners have already imported a good portion of products ordered for the holiday season — largely via West Coast ports which saw record imports this summer. Impact at retail should appear nonexistent today, but restocks of any sleeper hits could be in jeopardy as freight remains stuck on the water.
The strike threatens to severely disrupt the U.S. toy industry, which contributes $157.5 billion to the economy, by disrupting the supply chain and preventing critical holiday shipments from reaching shelves in time. The Toy Association is part of a coalition of impacted industries that continues to urge the Biden administration to immediately intervene on this issue and help the ILA and USMX come to a solution at the bargaining table as soon as possible.”
— Greg Ahearn, President & CEO of The Toy Association
New products for 2025 post-holiday resets and the spring selling season could also be delayed leading to empty shelves come January.
In the meantime, the industry’s thin margins may also be tested again if the need for air freight emerges to get restocks delivered for the holidays. In that case, shippers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL may come to the rescue at a significant cost during their busiest season.
“Who’s gonna win here in the long run?”
Last month, the ILA published a video on YouTube in which Union President Harold J. Daggett shared his thoughts on a number of topics, ending with a firm warning for the USMX and the companies it supports.
“Who’s gonna win here in the long run?” Daggett asks. “You’re better off sitting down and let’s get a contract, and let’s move on with this world. In today’s world, I’ll cripple ya. I will cripple you. You have no idea what that means. Nobody does!”
While the sentiment sounds harsh, it’s best viewed in the context of the entire video below in which Daggett outlines the record profits that ocean shippers enjoyed during the pandemic, a time when many in the toy industry accused those same shippers of price gouging.
Source: ILA
The Toy Book will continue monitoring the situation at the ports in the days ahead.
Next year marks the 125th anniversary of Lionel Trains, and the company founded by Joshua Lionel Cowen is on-track for a big year filled with special events, new products, and interactive experiences.
Since its founding as the Lionel Corp. in 1900, the company has remained a leading name and innovator in model railroading for fans of all ages. The company’s pioneering spirit and constant evolution cemented its legacy as a cross-generational toy company loved by kids and collectors alike.
This 125th anniversary is not only a celebration of our legacy but also a reflection of the enduring passion and loyalty of the Lionel community. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated customers and partners who have supported us throughout this journey. As we look to the future, we remain committed to delivering the highest quality products and experiences that continue to inspire and bring joy to model train enthusiasts worldwide.”
— Mike Phillips, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Lionel Trains
The Lionel Trains 125th Anniversary Celebration begins this month promising a variety of highlights designed to connect with enthusiasts, families, and those new to the world of model railroading.
Select highlights include:
Exclusive Commemorative Models: Lionel will unveil a collection of limited-edition trains and accessories, featuring designs that honor classic models and key innovations from the company’s extensive history.
Virtual Events and Webinars: Train enthusiasts across the globe are invited to join virtual events, including live Q&A sessions with Lionel engineers, virtual tours of the Lionel headquarters, and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the design and production process.
Special Editions and Collaborations: The celebration will feature unique collaborations with renowned brands and artists, introducing fresh designs and creative expressions into Lionel’s extensive product lineup and licensed offerings.
Additional details on 125th anniversary can be found at Lionel125.com with more information set to be revealed in the weeks and months ahead.
Lionel Trains will present a panel at New York Comic Con (NYCC) on October 19 (more details to come) where the company will offer four exclusive models. Additionally, the company — a pioneer in the licensing space through deals with NASCAR, Warner Bros., Disney, Mattel, John Deere, and others — hints that a major partnership announcement may be revealed in New York.
Spearheading innovation across the industry and forging new partnerships, Toys ”R” Us Asia has made strides in engaging store design. The retailer has launched IP-driven experiences through immersive store environments across the region.
As part of our transformation, we are committed to investing in concepts that elevate the customer experience. Our collaborations with iconic IPs like TOMICA and Sanrio, and partnerships with Kiztopia demonstrate our ability to create immersive environments for diverse tastes. We aim to offer something special for every generation, including Gen Z and kidults, making play an integral part of their lives.”
— Leo Tsoi, Chief Executive Officer, Toys "R" Us Asia
The Playful “R” concept store w/ TOMICA Brand Store in China
The Playful “R” concept store (pictured above) in Shanghai’s The Place features the first Toys “R” Us IP “Character Street.” This format is designed as a veritable mecca for IPs and spanning generations for fans of all ages. At the heart of the store is China’s first-ever TOMICA Brand Store, bursting with innovative merchandising, such as the world’s largest TOMICA Wall. The collection features 2,396 TOMICA die-cast cars, showcasing current products alongside rare and discontinued models. Additionally, visitors will find a dedicated lifestyle collection from Sanrio featuring iconic characters such as Hello Kitty and her friends. This store also includes a large section dedicated to ACG Toys and its extensive range of licensed properties.
Kiztopia Flagship store at Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia
At Mid Valley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur, Kiztopia’s newly renovated flagship location is home to Malaysia’s first-ever Kiztopia playground. This expansion was inspired by the success of the Kiztopia collaboration in Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport store. Each is inspired by the Toy+Play concept that Toys “R” Us Asia is building upon.
Playful Piazza at K11 MUSEA in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, Toys ”R” Us Asia partner K11 Group saw success with its Playful Living concept store at K11 Art Mall earlier this year. Now, the team-up of Toy and Entertainment titans is introducing the Playful Piazza store at K11 MUSEA. The store targets kids, families, and visitors from around the world.
Tsukuba store in East Japan
Last but certainly not least, the freshly remodeled Tsukuba store is the latest concept store in Toys ”R” Us Asia’s Japan sector. The marketplace boasts an immersive layout for a selection of toys and collectibles for all ages, accented by IP-focused displays.
Toys ”R” Us Asia has pledged to continue its transformation and invites global partners to join its efforts in future collaborations and retail experiences.
ZURU’s Mini Brands has collaborated with Ulta Beauty to make the first-ever beauty Mini Brands collection.
Mini Brands are miniature replicas of full-sized products, a concept the brand brought to life in 2019 that has since become a global sensation.
Ulta Beauty has been an incredible partner, connecting us with 13 top beauty brands that will appeal to both beauty enthusiasts and mini collectors alike. We are confident this collection will be a hit — after all, good things really do come in mini packages!”
— Corey Roman, Chief Marketing Officer of ZURU Toys, the maker of Mini Brands.
ZURU’s Mini Brands is entering the beauty market with Ulta. | Source: ZURU
The collection will be available on Oct. 6. A pack of five minis will cost $9.99. There are 68 to collect in total.
“This partnership captures the joy and sense of community that beauty brings across various age groups,” adds Muffy Clince, Senior Director of Emerging Brands & Initiatives at Ulta Beauty. “We’re excited to awaken the kid in all of us with this one-of-a-kind collection, making it a must-shop for the holiday season. The thrill of unwrapping each capsule to discover iconic beauty product replicas creates a nostalgic and fun experience that resonates with both new and existing fans.”
Ulta is the largest beauty retailer in the U.S. The collectibles will be available exclusively in Ulta stores nationwide and on Ulta.com. To learn more about both companies, visit Ulta.com and ZURU.com.
With a plan set for a big-screen release, the franchise’s third movie has now cast two big names to add to the group of pups. Jennifer Hudson and Fortune Feimster are now a part of the PAW Patrol universe, as they were cast in the animated film.
Cal Brunker directed the first two films, which earned over $345 million at the global box office. Feimster and Hudson are joining McKenna Grace, who will resume her lead role as Skye.
Hudson has recently become an EGOT winner and has an extensive list of accomplishments in the entertainment industry. Feimster is a highly accomplished and well-known stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, with two Netflix comedy specials.
Spin Master Entertainment’s PAW Patrol is one of the most successful series in kids’ television globally.
“Jennifer and Fortune are both exceptional talents, each bringing with them a global audience of devoted fans.” says Jennifer Dodge, President of Spin Master Entertainment “Their addition to thePAW Patrol 3 cast, along with the return of Mckenna, whose work in the film’s predecessor was instrumental to its success, will build on the exceptional storytelling for this beloved franchise. This dynamo trio will undoubtedly make this film a puptastic adventure for preschoolers and their families around the world.”
Pop Mart’s next location in the U.S. is headed to Chicago.
The 15th Pop Mart retail location in the U.S., the store will be unveiled on Oct. 5 on Michigan Avenue. At the grand opening event, shoppers can check out U.S.-exclusive collectibles, including the Peach Riot Frankie-Virtues Figurine, the Peach Riot Gigi-Dark Angel Figurine, and the Peach Riot Poppy-Seraphim Figurine. Shoppers who spend more than $59 can take home a DIMOO Woven Bag and shoppers who spend more than $199 can take home a ZUMOMO-Dupont Paper Shoulder Bag.
The new pop-up store allows POP MART to introduce artist-forward designer toys to the community and provide another way to engage with our loyal fans and collectors across the country. The store marks a significant milestone for Pop Mart as we continue to expand our retail presence in the United States.
Larry Lu, Head of Pop Mart North America
The store will feature some of Pop Mart’s most popular collections, including the Crybaby Cheer Up, Baby! Series Plush dolls, the Pucky Roly-Poly Kitty Series vinyl plush surprise toys, and more.
Pop Mart has more than 450 stores in 30 countries along with 2,300 surprise toy Robo Shops. Pop Mart collectibles and toys are also available at popmart.com.
From Sept. 24-26, Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) took over the ExCeL with more than 250 exhibitors for the show’s 25th year running. The milestone event broke BLE attendance records.
More than 10,800 attendees from 172 countries stopped by the show, a 12% increase over last year. More than 1,400 retailers were in attendance, a 46% increase over 2019 and 22% over last year. Retailers in attendance included Aldi, ASOS, Dick’s Sporting Goods, H&M, Miniso, Uniqlo, and more.
Source: Brand Licensing Europe
Source: Brand Licensing Europe
“We’ve had fantastic feedback from retailers on the brands they’ve been able to meet through pre-booked meetings — which also reached record-breaking levels — and shopping the show floor for product inspiration and unexpected new connections,” says Laura Freedman-Dagg, BLE’s Head of Retail. “We work hard to bring new retailers to the show each year, and there’s nothing more gratifying than seeing them walking the show and engaging with our exhibitors who, once again, have really brought their A-game.”
“What a fitting way to celebrate BLE’s 25th anniversary by breaking all previous records held by the show,” says Anna Knight, Senior Vice President of Licensing at Informa Markets. “It is testament to the hard work, commitment and passion of an amazing team who really care about delivering the very best event for this industry. On behalf of them and me, thank you again to everyone in the European licensing industry that supports us year after year — attendees, exhibitors, partners, retailers, media and more. It means everything.”
The number of exhibiting companies also increased by 5%, with more than 60 new exhibiting companies. Next year’s BLE will take place from Oct. 7-9.
