Table of contents
August 2010 volume 5, no. 9
features
departments
on this page
20 Play with a Pop: The bubble category
4 observations & opinions
(left to right): Fisher-Price’s Power Wheels Tough Talkin’ Jeep, Razor Sole Skate, Little Tikes 3-in-1 Trike, Little Kids’ Ni Hao, Kai-Lan Bubble Dragon, and Swing-N-Slide’s RealTree Sportsman Wood Complete Play Set
by Paul Narula
22 bubbles: Product Presentation by Paul Narula
24 outdoor Play: Product Presentation by Chris Adams
28 Specialty Emporium: Zoobies by Paul Narula
30 Specialty Emporium: Product Presentation by Laurie Leahey
6 sizzlers 8 specialty sizzlers 10 The Ticker 12 entertainment Marketplace: Spot 14 Merchandise Makers: Scratch-Art 16 industry Forum: TIA 18 industry Forum: Design Edge 32 you’re Hired 34 calendar of events
on the cover (clockwise from top left): Little Kids’ SpongeBob SquarePants Adventure Wand with Nickelodeon bubble solution; Funrise’s Gazillion Bubbles Bubble Exhaust; Imperial’s Miracle Bubble solution; and the Buzz Space Vehicle, by Kiddieland cover by
Design eDge
OBSERVATIONS & OPINIONS
WWW.ANBMEDIA.COM
SILLYBANDZ SAVE RETAIL? BY
NANCY LOMBARDI
ook all around and it seems kids of all ages are wearing SillyBandz—and I am using the term “kids” loosely here. I have seen everyone from preschoolers to teenagers and a handful of adults sporting colorfully adorned wrists. These bracelets are reminiscent of the rubber O-ring bracelets (also known as Jelly Bracelets) that were so popular, thanks in part to Madonna, in the 1980s. Except those bracelets were simply round, and, like the Model-T, mostly black. Today’s SillyBandz are fun because they are colorful and come in many shapes. It’s the shapes that make them appropriate for boys given that the collection includes a Marvel-licensed set, sports theme, animals, and music. But one of the best things about the SillyBandz is that they are bringing shoppers into stores—especially small toy and gift stores—during a time of the year when there is not much of a reason to shop. While this has been a summer of big movies, unless children are of a certain demographic the summer blockbusters may not appeal to them. Summer movie toys also mean that moms have to be willing to spend a bit more on a toy when they are probably in the store to simply purchase bubbles, beach toys, and other such outdoor (and usually inexpensive) items. SillyBandz are the perfect impulse buy. One always needs to check out what new styles may have debuted. They can also serve as a destination purchase when the child must have the next one in the series today. Each generation has its share of fad-based fun. Over the past 25 years there have been slap bracelets, friendship bracelets, POGS, stickers, cards of all sorts to collect, Beanie Babies, pins, key chains, and on, and on. These fads are part of the fun of being a kid. But for retailers it’s a chance to pick up a few extra dollars, which is perhaps why every store you walk by promotes that it is selling SillyBandz—or at least a similar incarnation of SillyBandz. BCP Imports, for the record, is the maker of the original SillyBandz. Consumer confidence may be down, the housing situation may still be dire, unemployment may still be high, but even with all the challenges that consumers face, the low price point (under $5) for SillyBandz is not something most parents will say no to. As we enter the back-to-school season—usually considered a good barometer of the impending holiday season—let’s hope that SillyBandz are just the tip of the iceberg of what gets thrown into a consumer’s shopping cart.
L
4 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
PUBLISHED
BY ANB
MEDIA • Volume 5, Number 9
PUBLISHER BOB GLASER BOB@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ANDY KRINNER ANDY@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTROLLER MARY GROGAN MARY@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR IN CHIEF JIM SILVER JIM@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NANCY LOMBARDI NANCY@ANBMEDIA.COM MANAGING EDITOR CHRIS ADAMS CHRISA@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR AT LARGE CHRISTOPHER BYRNE CHRISB@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSISTANT EDITORS LAURIE LEAHEY; LAURIE@ANBMEDIA.COM PAUL NARULA; PAUL@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB MASTER ERIK KIECKHAFER ERIK@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB CONTENT MANAGER BRENDAN SANABRIA BRENDAN@ANBMEDIA.COM
MATT
CONTRIBUTORS STACY LEISTNER; NUCCIO, MATT@DESIGNEDGE.NET
PUBLIC RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE JOSSLYNNE WELCH LITZKY PUBLIC RELATIONS, 320 SINATRA DRIVE, HOBOKEN, N.J. 07030 (201) 222–9118 EXT. 13 • JWELCH@LITZKYPR.COM INTERESTED IN A SUBSCRIPTION? CONTACT SUBSCRIPTIONS@ANBMEDIA.COM ANB MEDIA, INC. 229 WEST 28TH STREET, SUITE 401, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10001 PHONE: (646) 763–8710 • FAX: (646) 763–8727 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT and SPECIALTY EMPORIUM are published monthly by aNb
Media, Inc. Copyright 2010 aNb Media, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or
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ENTERTAINMENT and SPECIALTY EMPORIUM are registered trademarks of aNb Media, Inc.
Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by editors, contributing writers, or solicited or unsolicited documents are not necessarily those of management.
SIZZLERS
Sizzlers: What’s Moving Off Store Shelves? What Are the Hottest Web Orders? Here is an alphabetical listing of the hottest-selling items in the toy industry, based on a combined survey of both offline and online retailers, reflecting the previous month’s sales.
LEGO Toy Story 3 Western Train Chase
two Sing-a-Ma-Jigs; a total of four will be available
LEGO Toy Story 3 Trash Compactor Escape
COZY COUPE Little Tikes CRAYOLA 3-D SIDEWALK CHALK Crayola HOT WHEELS TOY STORY 3 SPARKS TURBO L AUNCHER Mattel
3-D Sidewalk Chalk
LEGO TOY STORY 3 TRASH COMPACTOR ESCAPE LEGO
STEP2 WATERWHEEL ACTIVITY PLAY TABLE Step2
LEGO TOY STORY 3 WESTERN TRAIN CHASE LEGO
SUPERSOAKER WARS SHOTBLAST WATER BLASTER Hasbro
SCRABBLE SLAM CARD GAME Hasbro
TOY STORY 3 BARBIE AND KEN MADE FOR EACH OTHER GIFT SET Mattel
IMAGINEXT TOY STORY 3 PLAYSET ASSORTMENT Fisher-Price
SILLY BANDZ BCP Imports
LEGO STAR WARS ASSORTMENT LEGO
SING-A-MA-JIGS Fisher-Price
TOY STORY 3 U COMMAND BUZZ LIGHTYEAR Thinkway ZHU ZHU PETS & ACCESSORIES Cepia
6 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
SPECIALTY SIZZLERS
Specialty Sizzlers: What’s Moving Off Store Shelves in the Specialty Market? This is an alphabetical listing of the hottest-selling items in the specialty segment of the toy industry, based on a survey of independent toy and gift retailers, reflecting the previous month’s sales.
BANANAGRAMS Bananagrams BOTTLE CAP NECKLACES M3 Girl Designs DJUBI—THE NEW TWIST GAME OF CATCH Djubi
ON THE
HEXBUG Innovation First
Tea Set
LEARN
TO
DRESS MONKEY Alex
AND
KITTY
Tidoo Strawberry Doll
MINI AUTOMOBLOX Manhattan Toy QWIRKLE MindWare TEA SET Green Toys TIDOO STRAWBERRY DOLL Corolle Bottle Cap Necklaces
8 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
YBIKE EXTREME YBike
Hexbug
The TICKeR
A Recap of Industry Headlines Visit www.aNbMedia.com for More Mattel RepoRts on Q2 Mattel, Inc., reported 2010 second quarter financial results. For the quarter, the company reported net income of $51.6 million, or $0.14 per share, compared to last year’s second quarter net income of $21.5 million, or $0.06 per share. For the quarter, net sales were $1.02 billion, up 13 percent compared to $898.2 million last year, including unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates of 3 percentage points. On a regional basis, second quarter gross sales increased 17 percent in the U.S. and increased 9 percent in international markets, including unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates of 5 percentage points. Operating income for the quarter was $69.4 million, compared to prior year’s operating income for the quarter of $32.5 million. For the second quarter, worldwide gross sales for the Mattel girls and boys brands business unit were $653.2 million, up 21 percent versus a year ago. Worldwide gross sales for the Barbie brand were up 6 percent. Worldwide gross sales for other girls brands were up 3 percent, driven by the Disney Princess doll line. Worldwide gross sales for the wheels business, which includes the Hot Wheels, Matchbox, and Tyco R/C brands, were up 5 percent. Worldwide gross sales for the entertainment business, which includes Radica and games and puzzles, were up 60 percent for the quarter, primarily driven by growth in the Toy Story 3 and World Wrestling Entertainment properties, as well as core games. Second quarter worldwide gross sales for the Fisher-Price Brands business unit, which includes the Fisher-Price Core, Fisher-Price Friends, and Power Wheels brands, were $385.2 million, or up 4 percent versus the prior year, primarily driven by sales of products supporting evergreen entertainment properties, such as Thomas and Friends and Dora the Explorer as well as solid performance in Fisher-Price Core. Second quarter gross sales for the American Girl Brands business unit were $58.9 million, down 4 percent versus last year.
HasbRo RepoRts on Q2 Hasbro, Inc., reported 2010 second quarter results. The company reported net earnings of $43.6 million or $0.29 per diluted share, an increase of $4.4 million or 11 percent, compared to $39.3 million or $0.26 per diluted share in 2009. The company reported net revenues of $737.8 million compared to $792.2 million a year ago, a decrease of 7 percent. Foreign exchange impact was a positive $1.6 million to revenues in the quarter. Worldwide net revenues for major product categories grew in two of the four categories. The games and puzzles category increased 22 percent to $262.2 million; the preschool category grew 32 percent to $103.5 million; the girls category was flat at $133.2 million; and the boys product category decreased 34 percent to $238.8 million. U.S. and Canada segment net revenues were $444.5 million compared to $490.9 million in 2009. The results reflect growth in the games and puzzles, girls, and preschool categories, which was offset by a decline in the boys category. The U.S. and Canada segment reported an operating profit of $58.7 million compared to $56.3 million in 2009. International segment net revenues were $261.4 million compared to $276.2 million in 2009. Foreign exchange had a negative $0.8 million impact on the segment’s second quarter revenues. The international segment reported an operating profit of $11.6 million compared to $16.5 million in 2009. Entertainment and licensing segment net revenues of $30.5 million increased 26 percent versus $24.2 million in 2009. The results primarily reflect an increase in movie-related revenue. The entertainment and licensing segment reported an operating profit of $13 million compared to operating profit of $2.9 million in 2009.
10 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
Jakks Pacific RePoRts Q2 Jakks Pacific, Inc., reported results for the company’s second quarter and first six months ended June 30, 2010. Net sales for the second quarter of 2010 were $123.3 million, compared to $144.8 million reported in the comparable period last year; and net sales for the six months were $200.6 million, compared to $253.5 million in 2009. Net income for the second quarter was $3 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, which includes a one-time pre-tax charge relating to the benefit payment of $2.8 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, to the estate of Jack Friedman pursuant to his employment agreement, compared to a loss of $406.6 million, or $14.96 per diluted share, reported in the second quarter of 2009. The net loss for the six month period was $2.2 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, which also includes the payment to Jack Friedman’s estate, compared to a loss for the first six months of 2009 of $417.4 million, or $15.35 per diluted share. On a non-GAAP basis, net sales for the second quarter of 2010 were $123.3 million, compared to $145.4 million, and $200.6 million for the six month period, compared to $254.1 million reported in the comparable period last year. On a non-GAAP basis, Jakks reported net income for the second quarter of $3 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $0.9 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2009. Non-GAAP results for the first six months of 2010 was a loss of $2.2 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $11.7 million, or $0.43 per diluted share, for the first six months of 2009.
MGa exPands Moxie BRand MGA Entertainment expands its Moxie Girlz doll brand with the introduction of Moxie Teenz, which are 14-inch dolls that feature realistic eyes, interchangeable wigs, and 15 points of articulation. The first four Moxie Teenz characters—which are named Melrose, Arizona, Tristen, and Bijou—do everything from attend college to perform on Broadway, living the kinds of exciting young adult lives to which girls aspire. A full line of products will be available this fall. Additionally, MGA’s Moxie Girlz partner with Burger King Corp. for a Kids Meals program, which is expected to begin August 23 and runs through September 12 in the U.S.
new additions to iHoBBy exPo The iHobby Expo, scheduled to take place October 21–24 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont, Il., will feature more than 200 exhibitors in 500-plus booths with 50 new first-time companies. The show is expected to host 2,000 trade attendees and 20,000 consumers. New to the show this year, provided by the Volo Museum, is the original Herbie the Love Bug and the Dukes of Hazzard’s General Lee. Also new to this year’s Expo is an historic display based on the radio control segment of the industry. Items from 1937–present are expected to be on display.
toMy intRoduces toMica to noRtH aMeRica TOMY Corp. announced that it will be introducing Japan’s No. 1-selling die-cast car and train set brand to North America beginning this September. TOMY says it has been the most popular system in the line for Japan for the past 40 years. The initial North American launch will include seven die-cast cars, three train sets, six accessory sets, six destination sets, and five deluxe playsets. All elements of the line can be combined to create TOMICA city.
AUGUST 2010 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 11
ENTERTAINMENT MARKETPLACE
CHORION BY LAURIE LEAHEY
story told by a father to his son becomes a worldwide bestselling children’s book. Back in 1976, Eric Hill probably wasn’t expecting the story about a puppy that he told his 2year-old son Christopher to become anything more than a bedtime story. However, in 1980 the story did get published as the classic lift-the-flap book Where’s Spot? Where’s Spot? wasn’t Hill’s first time using a lift-the-flap technique. While working in London as a freelance graphic designer, one of Hill’s jobs
A
above: inside spread of Spot’s Noisy Night below: 30th anniversary cover of Where’s Spot?
12 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
involved an advertising flyer design that had a flap covering part of a funny picture. Hill showed the design to his son who was very responsive to the idea of seeing a flap lift up with a funny picture underneath. Hill decided to make his son a book using flaps as part of the story. He based the story on a young puppy (drawing the spots on Spot based on the markings on an aircraft) who was hiding from its mother. Over the years, the Spot saga has grown to include new characters and new experiences. 50 million Spot books have sold globally, with children in more than 100 countries reading Spot books. The Spot licensing program has grown as well. Through Chorion, Spot’s global licensing program includes toys, apparel, gifts, home décor, stationery, books, and DVDs. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Spot and Chorion is celebrating with ongoing promotions and events across multiple territories. Penguin’s Frederick Warne & Co. division, which acquired the book property in 1993, will release a 30th anniversary special edition Where’s Spot? along with new publishing formats, including touchand-feel books, book and plush sets, and an 18-button sound book. Kids Preferred, the master toy licensee, is expanding its Spot product lineup for this year and 2011. BBC Worldwide will release new Spot DVDs. And with Zoobies, Starry Story Art, and Andover Fabric also on board, it soon won’t be difficult to find Spot on store shelves.
NEED TO KNOW • Spot has many aliases: Dribbel in Holland, Tippens in Sweden, Bolinha in Portugal, to name a few. • Spot put in an appearance at this year’s White House Easter Egg Roll.
• There are more than 1.5 million hits per month on the www.funwithspot.com website. This official Spot website provides activities for parents and children, competitions, games, and information about the brand and author. • Author Eric Hill’s favorite books are English actor and novelist Dirk Bogarde’s autobiographies. • In 2008, Hill was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to children’s literature.
Andover Fabric is a design studio and fabric converter specializing in printing of cotton fabrics for quilting applications. The company’s extensive print design catalog now includes Spot fabric.
ANDOVER FABRIC
Kids Preferred’s current Spot lineup includes beanbags, plush (shown), and soft books. As the master toy licensee for Spot, Kids Preferred will expand its Spot product line to include puzzles, backpacks, bath toys, and wooden toys for rollout in 2011.
KIDS PREFERRED
Spot can be found as a Zoobie, a plush animal that turns into a pillow and blanket. Last month the Spot Zoobie was featured on QVC.
ZOOBIES
BBC America released Where’s Spot? on DVD in April and will continue to release additional titles, including Spot Goes to School in August and Spot’s Magical Christmas in October.
BBC AMERICA STARRY STORY ART
Starry Story Art produces and sells framed and readyto-frame licensed prints of original artwork from children’s literature, including Spot. A variety of Spot images are available.
AUGUST 2010 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 13
MERCHANDISE MAKERS
SCRATCHING OUT FUN
BY
PAUL NARULA
efore Scratch-Art hit the mar- ment at Scratch-Art. “Parents used it when ket, kids were already playing they were children and have fond memories with a homemade version of of scratching pictures with the product.” In the product in schools. Kids addition, Scratch-Art is one of the few art would cover a piece of paper in activities that provides a wide variety of colcrayon and then coat the entire thing in a layer ors and creates a minimum amount of mess. of black crayon or ink that could be scratched Scratch-Art products are also highly affordoff. This was an extremely time-consuming able, ranging from as little as $1.39 for a process and, while children enjoyed the activ- smaller kit to $15.99 for deluxe editions. ity, art teachers and educators had to spend enormous amounts of time just to ready the materials. One such art educator, Nathan Polsky, decided to find a way to make this popular classroom activity easier to access. In 1964, Polsky succeeded and created the first Scratch-Art paper, founding the company that still exists and produces its paper today. Polsky discovered an easier way to layer the paper, making mass production easy and costeffective. While he originally Scratch-Art has had great success with its stickers. sold Scratch-Art in the school supplies market to reach the market that had This makes the high-end products strong created the play pattern, the company eventu- gift-giving options for parents on the go, ally opened up to the retail toy and craft mar- while smaller products such as notepads or ket with the creation of the Scratch Magic line mini-notes make solid party favors. of children’s activity products. Most of Scratch-Art’s products are aimed Scratch-Art has found popularity in toward children between 7–11 years old, and, today’s world for a number of reasons. while girls are definitely the majority of Nostalgia plays a large part in a parent’s Scratch-Art’s consumer base, the company decision to purchase Scratch-Art products doesn’t want to ignore the strong boys demofor their children. “Scratch-Art is a classic graphic in that age group. “We strive to create toy,” says Debbie Kurlansky-Winer, vice- products that boys will also enjoy and ones president of marketing and product develop- that are devoid of gender biases by selecting
B
14 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
subject matter that appeals to both boys and girls: sea life, safari animals, arctic animals, rainforest, etc.,” says Kurlansky-Winer. In addition to the basic Scratch Magic kits, Scratch-Art has seen a great deal of success with the fashion-oriented Scratchin’ Fashion line. The company has created a number of products that expand on the core product by incorporating stickers or stationery products that can be customized via Scratch-Art or themed kits that allow children to create stained glass imagery with Scratch-Art. Though the economic downturn caused a number of problems for retailers and manufacturers alike, Scratch-Art’s affordable price points and established presence in the marketplace for more than 40 years allowed the company to continue to profit. In addition, the company is always mindful of how its product appears on retailers’ shelves. “Our product packaging is top shelf, designed to stand out at retail,” says Kurlansky-Winer. “We hope that the packages tell the story clearly and succinctly.” While Scratch-Art has significantly expanded its offerings since the company’s beginnings in 1964, it hasn’t come close to running out of ideas. Next on the line for Scratch-Art is a full set of activity and sketch books that will each feature a wide variety of Scratch-Art products, including stickers, stencils, and more. While the Scratch-Art concept may be old, teaching it new tricks is just a matter of course for this company.
RETURN
HONG KONG VENDOR POCKET GUIDE 2011
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HONG KONG VENDOR POCKET GUIDE, A STAND-ALONE SUPPLEMENT TO THE DECEMBER 2010 ISSUE.
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AN B
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2011 Edition
INDUSTRY FORUM
TIA Celebrates Inventors BY
STACY LEISTNER, TOY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
omage to all inventors will be paid throughout August as part of National Inventors Month, an annual celebration dedicated to promoting the positive image of individual inventors and their contributions to society. The celebration was launched in 1998 by the United Inventors Association of the USA (UIA-USA), the Academy of Applied Science, and Inventors’ Digest magazine. Built on a foundation of innovation and creativity, the toy industry depends upon the vision, creativity, perseverance, and drive of inventors and designers to bring toys and games from idea to fruition. These new ideas are the backbone of the toy industry and the need for innovative product is constant. “Innovation is codified in our nation’s DNA,” says Mike Drummond, editor-in-
H
SIX INVENTORS HAVE ALREADY BEEN INDUCTED INTO THE
TOY INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME:
• MARVIN GLASS, Rock ’Em, Sock ’Em Robots (1985) • JEFFREY BRESLOW, HOWARD MORRISON, AND ROUBEN TERZIAN, founders of Big Monster Toys and team creators of Ants in the Pants (1998) • EDDY GOLDFARB, Kerplunk (2003) • REUBEN KLAMER, The Game of Life (2005) Klamer’s signature creation, The Game of Life, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and is part of the permanent collection in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
16 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
chief, Inventors’ Digest. “America remains the epicenter of invention, and we must honor the inventors that made this country great.” Of the estimated 7,000 toy industry products introduced by U.S. toy companies each year, most are created by in-house designers and R&D teams. But many also originate from toy design firms and independent professional inventors and designers who sell their ideas to toy companies. Some inventors devote themselves fulltime to their venture; others pursue their design as a hobby or side business. Each year, toy companies review hundreds of thousands of new product ideas from which they select their new products for future seasons. An original idea―one that is fully developed to a point where it is presentable in either complete drawings or prototype format—may not be seen on the market for 18 months to two years. To assist inventors and designers with tips and techniques and rules and requirements that may help them take an idea from a sketch on a napkin to a product on a retail shelf, Toy Industry Association (TIA) publishes a free Toy Inventor and Designer Guide (available via the “Tools” link on the www.toyassociation.org website) and welcomes industry professionals as associate members. TIA also supports future toy designers through contributions to the toy design education programs at Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and Otis College of Design in Los Angeles. TIA is also a supporter of the annual Toy & Game Inventor Expo sponsored by the Chicago Toy & Game Group and held in
CRAYOLA SUPPORTS INVENTORS
Crayola.com is honoring National Inventors Month with printable coloring pages, crafts, eCards, and lesson plans that feature facts about famous inventors and activities that inspire innovation. Visit www.crayola.com/calendar and visit the August 2010 page for details.
conjunction with the Chicago Toy & Game Fair (ChiTAG). This year’s event, to be held November 18–19 at Chicago’s Navy Pier, will cover topics such as licensing, IP protection, design and development, production, sales representation and marketing, retailing in domestic and international markets, and more. On Friday evening, November 19, the Toy & Game Inventor Awards will honor Excellence in Toy Design, Excellence in Game Design, a Rising Star Inventor, and the Young Inventor of the Year. Additionally, the Lifetime Achievement, Humanitarian Award, and In Memoriam honors will be bestowed. “It has never been more important to develop a future generation of inventive thinkers and problem solvers,” says Arthur Molella, director of the Lemelson Center for the study of invention and innovation at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. “Research shows that curiosity, imagination, and visual thinking are all skills developed during ‘play’ that can lead to invention and innovation.” Stacy Leistner is vice-president of strategic communications for TIA.
INDUSTRY FORUM
Why All the Bells & Whistles?
oes everything in the toy industry need to have the proverbial bell or whistle? I find it amazing how few toy companies are willing to even present a quality basic toy line to a buyer. I’m always sitting in meetings listening to marketing departments and sales teams spewing on and on about how buyers are uninterested in new products unless they have a mechanism with a “Try Me” feature. It’s certainly become a cliché in our industry. But is it, in fact, true? Does everything need to have light-and-sound mechanisms? The toy aisle is now louder and brighter than Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Now don’t get me wrong, a good
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Have e Have extra xtra in ventory? inventory?
Donate it Donate tto oK .I.D.S. K.I.D.S.
18 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
mechanism can have tremendous play value. But the tendency is to over-think mechanisms. That seems to happen, in part, because there are very few true engineers left in our industry. A true engineer will always tell you that to build a better machine you need to build a simpler one. And, what is simpler than a traditional toy? Yet, sadly, our industry has allowed traditional toys to become commodities to be sold at the dollar stores and in bargain bins. Is a doll just a doll and a block just a block? Thankfully not all companies feel that way. Consider the classic lines of Corolle, American Girl, Madame Alexander, Alex, Schylling, Learning Resources, Melissa & Doug, and certainly there are so many others.
Y Your our e excess xcess e pr oduct ccan an product put smiles es on fac on faces! es!
BY
MATT NUCCIO, DESIGN EDGE
And, of course, there is MGA—the company that did what no one thought was possible. They made a new fashion doll a success. Up until the introduction of Bratz, the choices were Barbie or some Chinese trading firm’s commodity 11.5-inch fashion doll. If Bratz has taught us anything (other than don’t mess with Mattel), it’s that a welldesigned and thought-out item can have a basic, traditional play pattern and be a mega success. Bratz didn’t need gizmos, they had style. And style trumps bells and whistles. Design Edge is a New York-based graphic design and research development studio. Matt Nuccio can be reached at (516) 377–0500 or at matt@designedge.net.
Poverty iiss a disaster Poverty disaster that that h happens appens every e very d day, ay, b but ut K K.I.D.S. .I.D.S. b brings rings h hope ope tto o 4.5 4.5 m million illion cchildren hildren aand nd their their ffamilies amilies e very yyear. ear. D onating every Donating yyour our e xcess apparel, apparel, sshoes, hoes, ttoys, oys, excess b ooks and and jjuvenile uvenile p roducts books products ccan an p rovide your your ccompany ompany w ith provide with a g enerous ttax ax d eduction a nd generous deduction and rreplace eplace despair despair w ith d ignity. with dignity. FFill ill out out the the donation donation fform orm o nline online aatt w ww.KIDSdonations.org o all www.KIDSdonations.org orr ccall 1 -800-266-3314. 1-800-266-3314.
Get into the Fun!
™
Sports Themed Toys
Novelty Lighting & Stationery TM
TM
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Novelty Lighting, Stationery & Wood Puzzles
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Novelty Lighting & Wood Puzzles
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Novelty Lighting
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PLAY WITH
BY
PAUL NARULA
A
POP: THE BUBBLE CATEGORY
ecades ago, the bubble category consisted of parents mixing water and soap, bending a pipe cleaner into a circle, and telling the kids to have fun. Nowadays, a wide variety of retailers carry bubble products that range from simple solution-and-wand combinations to complex mechanical toys that have as many features as any of today’s toy products. Bubbles has long since become a category in its own right, sharing shelf space with other classic toy categories. While the roots of the category are in a simple do-it-yourself activity, manufacturers have stepped up to create a category that far exceeds what parents were able to do with the materials they had at home.
D
WHY BUBBLES?
At first glance, it’s hard to see why the bubble category has been so successful when the base materials for the play pattern are available in every home. One of the major factors in the category’s growth has been the time aspect. Mixing up a bubble solution in the home takes one of Little Kids’ time. “Today’s busy mom doesn’t Big Bubble Friends want to spend her time mixing soap and water,” says bubble makers David Erck, founder of Extreme Bubbles. It takes effectively no time at all to grab a container of bubble solution during a shopping trip. In addition to the time factor, simple chemistry has played into it. While the ingredients for bubble solution are available in the home, a number of manufacturers noted that the formula for dish detergent—the most commonly used soap for homemade solution—has been changing over the years and makes a less effective bubble than it used to. Some companies, such as Steve Spangler Science and The Young Scientists Club, have added the process of making the solution into the play pattern, providing ingredients and instructions for kids to mix their own bubble solution with packaged ingredients. Bubbles are also a product that can help get children outdoors, which is especially important for parents during the spring and summer
20 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
months. “Bubble season really kicks off at the first sign of spring,” says Kathy Hawk, marketing manager at Funrise Toys (makers of the Gazillion Bubbles line of Bubble Toys). “Our biggest sales occur at Easter, when consumers are buying bubble items to place in Easter baskets.” However, a number of manufacturers and retailers note that the bubble “season” has begun to change. “The season for bubbles is steadily expanding,” says Diana Nelson, owner of the Kazoo & Company toy store. “With the advent of the web, we have orders all year round.”
OFF THE SHELVES
The popularity of the bubble category has not gone unnoticed by retailers, who have many reasons to stock up on bubble toys as the season expands. “They’re a fantastic grab-and-go item,” says Nelson. “We turn over our main line of bubbles four or five times a year.” The bubble category has been around for long enough that most retailers can be certain to move at least some product off the shelf as parents go toy shopping. Small bubble kits fit neatly into the impulse category, which has been growing in importance as parents are watching the contents of their wallets more closely. In addition, bubble products rarely require a great deal of space on the shelves to market effectively, making them a solid option for retailers who have limited space in the summer months. However, it isn’t just the smaller products that are selling out. Nelson notes that even higher-end items, such as bubble dispensers or toys priced over $10, are selling out regularly, if slower than the
Set 12 from The Young Scientists Club uses bubbles to explore the concept of surface tension.
impulse-priced items. “No matter what the plest—Little Kids’ No-Spill container techprice points, people are buying bubbles,” says nology has been incredibly successful for the Nelson. It certainly helps that the demograph- company simply by helping eliminate messes. ic for bubbles is not necessarily pinned Imperial’s Thompson notes that many of down to one age group. While chilthe company’s bubble toys (a number of dren 3–5 are the most common conwhich are also licensed, featuring sumers for the category, even brands such as Thomas the Tank teenagers and adults will occasionEngine, Hello Kitty, and a number ally pick up a bottle of solution out of upcoming Hasbro properties of a sense of nostalgia or whimsy. such as Transformers and My Additionally, the necessity for Little Pony) have a number of purchasing bubble solution leads patents based solely on creating a to another source of income and toy that can effectively deliver bubtraffic for the retailer—refills. bles in a unique way. “It’s not as easy While not every bubble manufacas it sounds,” he says. “This is literalturer offers refills for its products, ly both an art and a science.” those that do make sure to keep Sometimes, innovation can take their retail partners stocked. the category in an entirely new direcImperial Toy’s vice-president tion. Alex’s Blow Bubbles in the Solutions such as the of marketing Tim Thompson Tub line brings bubbles indoors, Gazillion Bubbles brand compares the business of bub- bubble solution from Funrise specifically to bath time. “Bubbles have helped the consumer ble toy refills to that of razor realize that bubble solutions and the bathtub are a perfect pairblades. “It’s a reason to keep ing,” says Nurit Amdur, CEO and are not created equal. the customer coming back to co-founder of Alex. Alex’s decision the aisle,” says Thompson. Every time the cus- to bring bubbles to a specific part of indoor tomer enters the store, another chance for a play has opened up the category for the comsale is generated—something that every retail- pany and the Blow Bubbles in the Tub line has er can appreciate today. its own special formula and accessories. In addition to the delivery of bubbles, the THE SCIENCE OF BUBBLES solution itself has become a more important While at first glance bubbles remain cre- part of the equation. “It’s taken a long time, ations of soap and water, the category has but consumers can finally see the difference come a long way from its beginnings in the between different types of bubble solutions,” family kitchen. The method of delivery has says Jim Engle, president of Little Kids. “They become as important as the bubbles them- know it actually matters.” While simple soluselves. While many basic wand-and-solution tions are built out of soap, water, and glycerin, kits are still sold, products such as the many companies have chemists working Gazillion Bubbles Bubble Rocket from specifically on designing new bubble soluFunrise and the motorized Monster Bubbles tions. Extreme Bubbles’ record-setting Beeboo bubble blower from Alex take the creation of solution was years in the making and the combubbles to another level. Some of the most pany’s new Dip Stix formula improves upon successful innovations have been the sim- that. Steve Spangler Science both sells its own
formula and provides children with the ingredients to create their own solution. “It’s all about making a better bubble,” says Steve Spangler, founder of Steve Spangler Science, which has created a number of unique bubble kits such as the Bouncing Bubble and Square Bubble makers. Spangler’s company takes advantage of the chemistry inherent in the bubble category to teach children about chemistry via a classic play pattern. The kits and the company’s website explain the science behind how each product works. The Young Scientists Club also takes advantage of bubbles to provide a natural gateway to science education. “When children are young, they’ll just buy a jar and play,” says Esther Novis, founder of The Young Scientists Club. “But as they get older, they want to see the how and why.” The company’s Awesome Bubbles kit provides children with a number of experiments focusing on bubbles, while for older children bubbles are incorporated into chemistry experiments about the nature of surface tension. “With bubbles, you can have fun playing and learning at the same time,” says Novis.
NOT GONNA POP
Like all classic categories, the bubble category has had its ups and downs but has remained solid thanks to low price points and regular innovation from manufacturers. Almost all of the manufacturers interviewed for this piece are looking forward to next year with high expectations. Not only will a number of companies be releasing brand new formulas or new products, but the expanding bubble “season” makes 2011 look extremely attractive from a sales standpoint. “Bubbles are a rite of passage for the summer months,” says Imperial’s Thompson. From the looks of it, consumers seem to agree.
AUGUST 2010 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 21
Bubble Toys BY
PAUL NARULA
Blowing bubbles is one of the long-standing traditions of the summer months. Today’s kids have dozens of options when it comes to creating the soapy, shimmery, floating entertainment that everyone is familiar with. From motorized bubble blowers to high-tech chemistry solutions, the world of bubbles continues to change and move forward. Here’s a sampling of some of the latest products in the bubble category.
Imperial Toy
Extreme Bubbles
The new Dip Stix kit from Extreme Bubbles features a new solution that allows kids to make even bigger bubbles. Dip Stix comes with a Dip Stix bubble bag and refills are available for purchase.
Little Kids
Little Kids’ Ni Hao, KaiLan Bubble Dragon is a motorized bubble dispenser that features the popular Nickelodeon animated character. Little Kids also produces bubble toys featuring SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.
Alex Toy
Alex will continue to develop its Blow Bubbles in the Tub line by adding a variety of new products, including a suction cup-held solution bottle, floating foam bubble wands, and more.
22 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
Funrise
The Gazillion Bubbles Bubble Exhaust is a battery-powered bike attachment. When turned on, it will leave a trail of bubbles behind a child’s bike.
The Young Scientists Club
The Awesome Bubbles science kit from The Young Scientists Club allows children to perform a variety of experiments based on the science of bubbles. Children will learn to make bubble shapes, bubble chains, and more.
Imperial will continue to develop its Super Miracle Bubble solution, which is designed for use with all of Imperial’s bubble toy products. Also coming up from Imperial is an assortment of Hasbrolicensed products, including Transformers, My Little Pony, and Fisher-Price brand products.
OutdOOr Play BY
CHRIS ADAMS
Outdoor play is an intrinsic part of childhood. While there are endless freeform ways for kids to play outside, utilizing ride-ons, bikes, scooters, swingsets, play tents, and playsets offer kids additional means of enjoying all that the outdoors has to offer. On the following pages is a range of outdoor play items from a range of manufacturers that can open up endless avenues of outdoor play for kids both young and old.
little tikeS Coming this fall from Little Tikes is the Tikes mobile (shown). This race car-styled ride-on features a push handle that locks into position, two cup holders, a seatbelt, and a storage area under the hood, which opens backward just like many real sports cars’ hoods. Also on the way is the Little Tikes 3-in-1 Trike that is a beginner trike for babies and beginning riders that grows with the child. In order to accommodate a range of riders, the trike has three modes. The first has it function as a parentpushed trike. Second is the parent-guided trike mode. Third is kidpowered trike mode.
PlaSmart PlaSmart continues with its popular PlasmaCar. It harnesses inertia, centrifugal force, and friction to propel kids. By rotating the steering wheel from side to side it can go forward and flipping the wheel 180 degrees the same motion will propel it backward. It is available in a range of colors.
24 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
Pacific Play tentS With its carry bag and easy set-up, the Seaside Beach Cabana is perfect to take along to the beach or the pool. It features two mesh windows that allow for adequate ventilation and provide kids with a view.
fiSher-Price Fisher-Price offers a range of introductions to its Power Wheels line. Leading the pack is the Power Wheels Tough Talkin’ Jeep, which features a working microphone, two seats, and a chrome grille. It has settings for 2.5 and five m.P.h going forward and 2.5 m.P.h. in reverse. Also new to the line are the Power Wheels Toy Story Lil Quad Ride On, Power Wheels Thomas the Tank Engine, and Power Wheels Lightning mcQueen.
outdoor PlaY razor Razor introduces the Razor Sole Skate (shown), which utilizes a three-wheel, single skate design. It functions much like a skateboard, but unlike a skateboard it features a low-profile deck that sits flush with the axle, which allows for greater mobility. The Sole Skate isn’t much larger than a shoe. Also on the way from Razor is the Razor Siege, which is a caster scooter that is basically a combination of Razor’s scooter and its RipStik. Speaking of the basic Razor Scooter, this year marks the 10th anniversary of that product’s release. As part of its celebrations, Razor is offering the Razor 10th Anniversary Limited Edition kick scooter. And last, but not least, Razor Ground Force Drifter is an electric drifter kart that can reach speeds of 12 M.p.h.
Kettler Well-known for its trikes, Kettler introduces a new take for toddlers with its Smoovy. The four-wheeled ride-on, which was developed with child physiotherapists, features low-noise wheels and a seat that can double as a leg rest. It also features a patented mechanism that limits turn radius to 45 degrees, which greatly reduces the chances of it tipping. In addition to the Smoovy, Kettler, of course, offers a range of new trikes, including the hKS Kettrike happy Navigator, Layana Trike, and Racer Trike, which present kids 1–5 years old with a range of options to get rolling.
26 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
M.Y. Products While riding the Rockboard Scooter, the rider rocks back and forth to propel it. Its manufacturer says that speeds of up to 10 M.p.h. can be reached without having to put a foot on the ground. In addition to this mode of propulsion, the scooter can be converted into a low-profile kick scooter. The Rockboard folds up for easy transportation and storage.
street surfing The Whiplash can be ridden just like Street Surfing’s Wave or like a scooter. Centered around the Wave’s caster design and torsion technology, Whiplash’s flexing deck and handlebar provide a ride that doesn’t require riders to put a foot on the ground. Its wide skate-inspired deck, available in black with red grip tape, is made with carbon reinforced composite material.
Kiddieland Kiddieland offers a range of Disney-licensed rideons. The Buzz Space Vehicle has Buzz play his favorite songs while lights flash. In addition to music, it features sound effects such as a rocket blasting off and an engine revving. Additional Disney ride-ons include the Lightning McQueen Activity Racer and Ariel Magical Trike.
Swing-n-Slide The RealTree Sportsman backyard playset features RealTree Hardwoods pattern on a Summit slide, a climbing mountain, and the canopy roof. In addition, the kit comes with three swinging accessories as well as a sandbox.
Huffy Huffy Corporation has redesigned its iconic Green Machine that utilizes contemporary styling and coloring. Using the Green Machine’s two levers, the rider controls the steering and braking action to produce spins and slides. The redesign features a new wider front wheel with a semislick tread.
Amloid Amloid is adding to its ride-on offerings in 2011, which includes the Pretty Princess Racing Cycle (shown), a pedal-powered ride-on that features a big front wheel with wide rear wheels for stability, as well an adjustable seat.
rAdio flyer Radio Flyer’s Slider Rider (shown) features caster wheels for its two rear wheels. These wheels create easy spinouts for budding daredevils. Its contour seat provides kids with support and the trike’s frame adjusts for kids 2–5 years old. For younger children, the Scoot ’n Zoom has wheels that twist and spin to help propel kids on this foot-to-floor rideon. Designed for kids 1–3 years old, the Classic Bumper Car is a ride-on that recalls the classic styling of bygone days. It features seven sound effects that are activated with bumping action. Also on the way is the Grow ’n Go Flyer, which is an adjustable trike that features a rear storage bin.
leArning Curve Learning Curve’s 21” John Deere Big Scoop Tractor (shown) is a fully functional front loader that features a real steel hood. It is ideal for sandbox excavation. The rugged John Deere 36” Steel Stake Wagon is constructed of heavy duty, rust-resistant steel and has air-filled off-road tires that give passengers and pullers a smoother ride. Its features include an anti-tip steering mechanism that helps prevent spills around turns. It also features high, hardwood stake panels. It is available in John Deere green as well as pink. Additional John Deere offerings include the 12” John Deere Bicycle.
AUGUST 2010 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 27
Three-in-One Fun
BY
PAUL NARULA
n long car trips or plane “blankie” size of the product. Jumbo while many small companies were rides, space is always a lux- Zoobies are much larger versions enduring numerous monetary hardury. When children want to of the original size, aimed at a ships. Despite the disadvantages bring a number of comfort slightly older crowd than the presented by that situation, items on a trip, parents core 0–5 age demographic of Zoobies has continued to grow have to put their foot down for the sake of con- the regular Zoobie. and expand its distribution venience. The Smoot brothers, who grew up In addition to these varialevels. “We’re focused on with seven other siblings and had a good idea tions on the core product, specialty, high-end departof how precious space could be, decided that Zoobies has also introduced ment stores, and bookthere was a way to consolidate a significant the new Storytime Zoobies. stores,” says Passas. The amount of what children want to travel with. These are the company’s company has continued to Thus, they created the Zoobies, a collection of first licensed products, Cookie the Cow, one of the newest Zoobies see growth in all three of plush animals that are part stuffed animal, part featuring popular chilthose sectors, especially pillow, and part blanket. dren’s book characters and packaged with the thanks to the success of the company’s Zoobies were designed to be the ultimate storybooks of the characters the plush are licensed products. “This past year has been our traveling companion for children. The default styled after. The line began a year ago with the best year ever,” says Passas. “While the econform of the product is that of a plush animal. company’s first license, Eric Carle’s The Very omy has definitely impacted some of our Undoing a set of velcro straps transforms the Hungry Caterpillar. “We couldn’t produce retailers, we’ve continued to get our product plush toy into a pillow. Unzipping the pillow enough of the first run to meet the demand,” out there successfully.” allows the Zoobie to open up into a full- says Passas. According to the company, part of The company also does not intend to let its fledged child’s blanket. The company has cre- this line’s popularity has been the natural rela- growth stagnate going forward. Passas says ated an extensive number of Zoobies based on tionship between cuddling activities and either that in addition to Olivia and Peter Rabbit, a wide variety of animals, ranging from hippos being read to or reading. As a result, the com- Zoobies will be working to secure a number of and crocodiles to moose and ladybugs. pany began to seek additional licenses for this new licenses for the Storytime collection as “Zoobies are something that product line. Zoobies will be adding Peter well as other product lines. The Jumbo moms have seen that are Rabbit and Olivia to the Storytime col- Zoobies product line will also be expanded more than just cute, but are lection. “This is a big growth area into a new product, which Passas was unable also functional and versafor us,” says Passas, “and it’s to share details about. In addition, Zoobies is tile,” says Arete Passas, significantly increased our looking at an expansion into new product cateCEO of Zoobies. distribution.” gories that are an extension of the core prodThe first Zoobies hit Increasing distribu- uct. While Passas was unable to share details the market in 2007 and tion is key for a compa- about this upcoming project as well, it is since then the company ny such as Zoobies, already in testing and will be hitting the marhas added a number of which started while the ket soon. Even though the product was originew lines. Baby Zoobies are U.S. was just beginning to nally created to save space on long trips, it The Very Hungry Caterpillar in pillow form smaller versions of the basic see the effects of the reces- looks like Zoobies are getting ready to take up Zoobie, which Passas describes as the sion and has gone through its growth period plenty of space at retail.
O
28 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
CCA and B Publishing
A Light In The Night, from CCA and B Publishing (the same company that did Elf On The Shelf: A Christmas Tradition), is a board book and plush nighttime guardian that provides a simple remedy for dealing with nighttime fears and bedtime worries. The book, written and illustrated by first-time author and inspired-mom Sandy Harsanyi Murphy, is based on the story of a nighttime guardian that wards off all things that slither and creep with its tummy light. Each copy of the book comes with its own plush nighttime guardian, which emits a soft, green glow when squeezed. The nighttime guardian is available in bubblegum pink, ice blue, and mint green shades.
Eurographics
Eurographics 100-piece children’s puzzles are designed to be fun and educational at the same time. The Penguins jigsaw puzzle features more than 15 species of penguins. The Rockets jigsaw puzzle (shown here) features more than 15 of the most popular rockets. Both puzzles are 13 x 19 inches with perfect and easy-fit, unbreakable puzzle pieces, according to Eurographics. The images are printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink. The puzzles are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Thames & Kosmos
In September, Thames & Kosmos will introduce its 2010 Construction Series, a new line of seven science and building kits. Each kit demonstrates how different forms of energy, particularly renewable energy, can power a broad range of vehicles, tools, and machines. Students must build each model from the ground up, using the trademark Thames & Kosmos full-color, easyto-read manuals as a guide. The plastic building pieces in these sets—including gears, axles, pulley wheels, sprockets, and frames—have been specifically designed to enable children to easily assemble functional models that really work. The pieces are not only compatible with the other Construction Series kits, but with 10 existing Thames & Kosmos products. Students can design their own custom models using the pieces in any one kit, and enhance their model-building potential by combining two or more kits. Shown is the Electric Generator kit.
30 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
Peaceable Kingdom Press
Peaceable Kingdom Press adds new kits to its Quick Sticker Kits lineup of fun and imaginative make-and-decorate sticker craft projects for ages 3–10. The Pillow Box Tooth Fairy Kit lets kids make and decorate up to four pillow boxes for their lost teeth using glitter stickers and fold-and-seal notes. The Kooky Cootie Catcher Kit (shown) comes with three pre-folded cootie catchers, an instruction sheet, and 100 stickers. Also new in the line is the Pirate Ship Adventure Kit, Mermaid Mobile Kit, Princess Castle Kit, and Light Switch Covers Kit.
Woodstock Chimes
The Woodstock Music Triangle from Woodstock Chimes comes with a metal beater and suspension string. To play, hold the triangle by the red loop. Strike any side of the triangle for a single beat, or sweep the striker rapidly around the inside edges of the triangle for a tremolo effect. It is for ages 3 and up.
The Young Scientists Club
With The Young Scientists Club’s Magic School Bus Solar Energy to the Rescue kit, kids can explore the greenhouse effect, collect real carbon dioxide, recreate global warming in a bottle, use a solar panel to spin a fan, make a solar secret code, design solar spinners, watch solar energy inflate balloons, and more.
Aeromax
Aeromax’s new My 1st Career Gear line includes the My 1st Career Gear Chef costume. It comes with a white chef’s coat adorned, in graphic style, with everything a master chef might need—printed glove, spatula, spoon, double breasted red buttons, and obligatory red kerchief tied at the neckline. The breast pocket is stitched in black letters with the word “chef.” The costume is for ages 3–6.
AUGUST 2010 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 31
YOU’RE HIRED
WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS
PILAR ZULUETA, EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, EMEA
Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) promoted Pilar Zulueta to executive vice-president and general manager, EMEA. Zulueta continues to hold responsibility for the management of licensing and retail business development activities. Working with licensees, retailers, promotional partners, and WBCP offices, she oversees regional sales and marketing initiatives related to key consumer products categories including toys, apparel and accessories, housewares, promotions, and publishing, among others. The entertainment licensing portfolio Zulueta manages in the region encompasses global entertainment brands such as Looney Tunes, Harry Potter, Scooby-Doo, and the DC Comics superheroes. Zulueta joined WBCP in 1997, most recently serving as senior vice-president.
HASBRO, INC.
LISA GERSH, BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Hasbro, Inc., elected Lisa Gersh, president, strategic initiatives at NBC News, to the company’s board of directors. In her role at NBC News, Gersh has direct responsibility for NBC News’ growth initiatives, including the Weather Channel companies, and for promoting the global interest of NBC News. Gersh joined NBCU in November 2007 after the company acquired Oxygen Media, which she co-founded and served as its president and COO.
NOVEL ENTERTAINMENT
KELLY HENWOOD, CHILDREN’S BRAND MANAGER
Novel Entertainment, independent producers of children’s programs Horrid Henry, Fimbles, The Roly Mo Show, Rockit’s Pocket, and Ping & Pong, appointed Kelly Henwood as children’s brand manager. In her new role, Henwood will work closely with Novel’s licensing agency Copyright Promotions and international distributors, as well as expand and consolidate the brands’ online presence. She is responsible for coordinating a wide range of brand partners across a variety of product areas, as well as initiating marketing campaigns and cross-promotional strategies. Most recently Henwood was licensing & marketing manager at Oxford Limited, a subsidiary of the University of Oxford, where she managed the global brand licensing program.
32 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
STEVE BALLMER TO DELIVER CES PRE-SHOW KEYNOTE ADDRESS
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) announced that Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will deliver a pre-show keynote address at the 2011 International CES. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2011 International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology trade show, is scheduled for January 6–9, 2011, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ballmer will kick off the 2011 International CES with a preshow keynote address at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, January 5, in the Las Vegas Hilton Center. The full lineup of 2011 CES keynote addresses will be announced in the coming months.
SCHOLASTIC, INC.
MATT BROWN, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, SCHOLASTIC, INC., AND PRESIDENT OF KLUTZ
Scholastic, Inc., appointed Matt Brown to senior vicepresident of Scholastic and president of Klutz, the publisher of “books plus” for children and a division of Scholastic. Brown will lead the creative direction of the Klutz publishing program and will manage the strategic development of the Klutz brand. Most recently, Brown was the co-founder and “play czar” of big BOING, LLC, a strategic innovation company committed to promoting happiness and well-being through play and ecological harmony. In addition to launching its own brands, big BOING has worked with partners including Coca-Cola, Playskool, Disney Retail, Kraft, Toys “R” Us, PBS Kids, Nickelodeon, and Learning Curve to develop new and revitalize existing brands. Brown also serves on the board of GoAnimate, a socialnetworking animation start-up, and is an advisor to ReeLife and Playing For Keeps, non-profits committed to enriching lives of kids and teens through play and creative expression.
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EVENTS OF
CALENDAR
Industry-Related Trade Shows OCTOBER 4–8
MIPCOM
mipworld.com
Palais des Festivals
Cannes, France
10–13
The ABC Kids Expo
theabcshow.com
Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas
5–8
Fall Toy Preview
21–24
toyassociation.org
iHobby Expo
ihobbyexpo.com
NOVEMBER
Dallas Market Center
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
Dallas
Rosemont, IL
16–18
G2E
globalgamingexpo.com
Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas
20–21
Chicago Toy & Game Fair
chitag.com
Navy Pier
Chicago
5–8
Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merch. Show
urban-expo.com
Myrtle Beach Convention Center
Myrtle Beach, SC
8–11
Philadelphia Gift Show
philadelphiagiftshow.com
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
King of Prussia, PA
21–24
California Gift Show
californiagiftshow.com
Los Angeles Convention Center
Los Angeles
Nuremburg, Germany
18–19
Toy & Game Inventor Conference
DECEMBER JANUARY 10–13
25–27
Hong Kong Toys and Games Fair The Toy Fair
toyandgameinventors.com
hktoyfair.com toyfair.co.uk
FEBRUARY
Navy Pier
Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center
Olympia Grand Hall
3–8
Spielwarenmesse Intl.Toy Fair
www.toyfair.de
Nuremburg Exhibition Center
15–18
KidScreen Summit
summit.kidscreen.com
Hilton New York
13–16
American International Toy Fair
toyassociation.org
Jacob Javits Convention Center
Chicago
Hong Kong London
New York City
New York City
FALL TOY PREVIEW 2010 OCTOBER 5–8; DALLAS MARKET CENTER, DALLAS; WWW.TOYASSOCIATION.ORG
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR 2011 FEB. 13–16; JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER, NEW YORK CITY;
WWW.TOYASSOCIATION.ORG
INTERNATIONAL HALLOWEEN COSTUME & PARTY SHOW 2011 MARCH 10–13; AMERICA’S CENTER & DOME, ST. LOUIS, MO.; 34 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 2010
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