Industry Moves

Addo Play has appointed Stefanie Moore as its new international sales director to oversee the international sales team for its two brands: Addo and Early Learning Centre, with a focus will on developing Addo Play’s strategic partners and further developing the company’s brands in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia/New Zealand. Stefanie joins the team with a wealth of knowledge and experience, having worked in the toy and licensing industry for 17 years leading international sales teams at MGA, Moose Toys and most recently Melissa and Doug. In her new role, Stefanie has been tasked with accelerating sales growth and building long-term partnerships with the company’s Addo and Early Learning Centre brands . She commented: “I am honoured to join the team at Addo Play and am very much looking forward to playing a key role in driving Addo’s already very impressive commercial success. I thrive on driving outstanding results, taking companies to their next growth phase and motivating and inspiring others by example. An exciting time to join.” Dave Martin, co-founder and CEO of Addo Play, told Toy World: “We are really delighted to welcome Stefanie to the Addo Play team and to our Operating Board. Stefanie brings a real wealth of knowledge of toys and international markets. Over the last six years, we have developed business in over 30 global markets with some incredible partners, and I know Stefanie is excited to continue to develop this business as well as helping us seek out exciting new opportunities.” Stefanie can be contacted at stefanie.moore@addoplay.com

Todd Merton, who is based in the United States, has joined IETP in the newly created position of head of Business Development.

Todd brings with him a wealth of experience in developing strategic partnerships including complex licensing agreements with renowned companies like Marvel, ViacomCBS and Warner Bros. He will focus on strengthening relationships with existing programme members and securing new members in the retailer, toy manufacturer and brand licensing categories.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to work with world’s leading retailers, brands and companies to ensure their products are being made in the most ethical manner and improving the lives of the workers responsible for that production,” Todd said.

Carmel Giblin, president & CEO, IETP, added: “IETP is dedicated to reducing duplication and helping our members achieve positive business and social impacts through their global supply chains. I’m thrilled to have Todd join the team, with his extensive experience we’ll build a stronger community of responsible buyers and ethical suppliers, creating long-term value for all.”

Readers can get in touch with Todd directly at Todd.merton@ethicaltoyprogram.org. IETP says Todd will be delighted to talk to interested parties, learn about their business needs and share with them information about IETP services and how they can help companies and individuals achieve their objectives.

Costume company Disguise has announced another key hire to its EMEA team with Lianne Barber taking on the role of marketing manager.

With over a decade of marketing, brand management and licensing experience at The Entertainer, Lianne will lead all marketing efforts in the EMEA territory for Disguise, a division of toy and consumer products manufacturer Jakks Pacific.

With Disguise recently announcing major licence acquisitions and renewals across EMEA, including a new multi-year licensing agreement for a wide range of Disney portfolio brands, and the rapid expansion of the retail footprint across all regions, the need for a global approach to marketing and retail promotions is a key focus for the company.

Lianne will be a major part of the marketing team developing targeted sales driving strategies and campaigns to drive business across Europe.

Rachel Middleton-Smith, VP of marketing, Disguise EMEA, said: “Lianne Barber will be an integral part to our success in EMEA. She brings key skills and experience to the table which will enable us to develop our marketing reach across our region.”

Disguise is hiring a complete staff of apparel-based experts to design, develop, sell and market costumes and accessories throughout Europe. With several new license acquisitions still to be announced, the company will bring new brands and characters to the EMEA market.

The Vivid Goliath Group has announced that Mark Standen has joined the team as national account manager, working on the Toy and Games portfolio.

Mark has been working on global toy brands in the retail industry for over 17 years and brings a wealth of experience in the independent sector across buying groups Toymaster and Playroom (AIS), thanks to his most recent role at Rainbow Designs.

“With the latest acquisition of Endless Games and a striking line up of new games, new categories and new innovations in toys, it is an exciting time for Mark to join,” stated sales director Gerbie Quilter.

Mark added: “I’m looking forward to getting stuck in as we start autumn/ winter ’22 previews. There is a lot to learn: the games portfolio has diversified into lots of exciting market segments, and toy brand innovations are taking the company into new categories. More will be revealed during retailer previews and at London Toy Fair.”