It wasn’t exactly a secret, but now it’s official: Stormin’ Studios is open for business.
Last November, the new, LA- and Toronto-based company acquired assets from TCG Toys, including tooling, artwork, trademarks, patents, and intellectual property associated with several established brands. That deal gave the startup something many new toy companies lack: an instant portfolio.
The lineup spans action figures, games, puzzles, activity sets, play mats, and collectibles under brands including Flexfigs, Magnetic Creations, Mega Mats, and Surelox.
Ahead of Toy Fair New York last month, CEO David Norman teased the new company in a conversation with People of Play, followed by a distribution deal to bring UK-based Orchard Toys’ games and puzzles portfolio to the U.S. Norman is a familiar face within the industry, most recently seriving as President of Games at Moose Toys, where the company’s games division grew rapidly during his tenure. Before that, Norman co-founded Goliath Games in North America, expanding the global brand’s reach.
“Stormin’ Studios was founded to bring energy, innovation, and fun back to the toy aisle,” Norman says. “We want to take these beloved [TCG] brands, honor their legacy, and push them forward with fresh ideas that surprise and delight kids and families.”
Jessica Gavin, former Executive Vice President of TCG, returns to oversee day-to-day operations as Managing Director of Stormin’ Studios.
“Our focus is on executing smartly and creatively — making sure every product we bring to market is exciting, fun, and meets the high standards retailers and families expect,” Gavin adds.
The company previewed its lineup in private meetings with buyers and media at Toy Fair New York and will showcase products during LA Spring Previews beginning April 20. Retail buyers and potential partners can make an appointment to visit Stormin’ Studios in its showroom (1960 E. Grand Ave., Suite 390, El Segundo, California).
Contact Jessica Gavin for more information: jess@storminstudios.com.
