February 2012 by The Toy Book

Vol. 28, No. 1

February 2012

Page 56 page 185

Clockwise from top left: Cutie Pops, from Jada Toys; Finger Tips Matching Game, from Wiggles 3D; Ambi One Man Band, from Schylling; The Avengers Iron Man R/C Trike, from Silverlit; Color Bloomz, from Spin Master; Pteranodon, from Aurora World; Soft Elephants, from Edushape; Moshi Monsters Diablo key chain, from Basic Fun

Trolls Get Funky page 58

State of the Toy Industry: 2012

s I write this, I’m continually interrupted by a growing list of companies (whose stocks I cover) that have announced that their results for the fourth quarter of 2011 were worse than expected. That means that either I’ve gotten worse at predicting how companies will do, or that last holiday season turned out to be tougher than we thought. I’ll go with the latter. Consumers proved as inscrutable as ever, and as hungry for discounts. And they’re becoming trained to expect discounts as the calendar gets deeper into December. For the upcoming year, I think we can look forward to a year where consumers continue to be cautious, where manufacturing costs have stabilized enough not to require big price increases, and growth outside the U.S. will continue to outpace domestic expansion. continued on page 40 by Sean McGowan

State of the Industry Q&A Page 44

page 227

table of contents

Fe b ru a r y 2 0 1 2 State of the Industry 2012 Cover; Page 40

Published by Adventure Publishing Group, Inc.®

Volume 28, Number 1 www.toybook.com P UBLISHER Jonathan Samet jsamet@adventurepub.com

Are Your Customers Always Right? How to Reward Your Loyal Customers Page 226

CES 2012: Tech Playground for the BIG Kids

State of the Industry Q&A Page 44

departments Publisher’s Viewpoint Page 22

Industry Update Page 24

Stat Shot Page 28

Go Figure Page 30

Talking Social Media Page 34

TIA Perspectives

Page 290

Making Toy Safety an Issue Every Manufacturer Can Understand Page 292

How to Appeal to Your Market Online Page 298

LIMA’s Good Practices for Complying with Licensors’ Codes of Conduct Page 302

Toy Fair 20 1 2 Category Guide What’s New Appcessories Dolls & Plush Activity & Construction Games & Puzzles Boys’ Infant & Preschool

page 56 page 98 page 106 page 129 page 152 page 178 page 214

Page 38

5 Questions with TCG

The Halloween Insider

page 227

Page 72

Raising the Bar Page 293

Marketing Memo Page 296

Industry Marketplace Page 304

Flashback: February 1992 Page 306

Specialty Toys & Gifts: Page 185

Toy Fair 2012 Edit Lettor’s er

Pag e S3

Page S6

Media Center Page S29

S ASTRA’ s Insight4 Page S

E DITOR IN C HIEF Jackie Breyer jbreyer@toybook.com A SSOCIATE E DITOR Elizabeth A. Reid ereid@toybook.com A SSISTANT E DITORS Melissa Tinklepaugh mtinklepaugh@licensingbook.com Ericka Johnson ejohnson@toybook.com C ONTRIBUTING W RITERS /E DITORS Ashlee Breitner, Martin Brochstein, Frank Farina, Jazmin Idakaar, Bryan Joiner, Betsy Kruger, Andy Marken, Sean McGowan, Kathleen McHugh, Kristin Morency, Reyne Rice, Joseph Siprut, Meagan Walker, Matthew Warneford, Nancy Zwiers A DVERTISING D IRECTOR Diana Veach dveach@adventurepub.com P RODUCTION D IRECTOR Anthony K. Guardiola aguardiola@adventurepub.com C ONTROLLER /O FFICE M ANAGER Robert Forde rforde@adventurepub.com O FFICE A SSISTANT Jazmin Idakaar jidakaar@adventurepub.com U.S. Corporate Headquarters Laurie Schacht, President laurieschacht@aol.com

Adventure Publishing Group, Inc.® 307 Seventh Ave., #1601 New York, NY 10001 Phone: (212) 575-4510 Fax: (212) 575-4521

Member, International Toy Magazine Association

Top Licenses for 2012! Booth #3103

#3103

Publisher’s

Viewpoint

Covering the Hot Trends and New Products

he toy business has always been a fashion business, with manufacturers looking to quickly introduce new products to capitalize on the latest trends. This has never been more apparent than with the quantity of “app-related” products that are being introduced for smartphones and tablets. For the holidays, the new “toy” I received was an iPad. I am still a novice on all it can do, but in just the short time I have had it, it never leaves my side. I email with it, read with it, watch videos and TV shows, and of course, I play on it! I love number games so I play Kakuro, Suduko, and other mind puzzles. But who out there has not played, or at least heard of, either Angry Birds or Words with Friends? And the fact is, when I put down my iPad for even a second, my daughter Allyson picks it up and is playing some game (This week she is addicted to Temple Run and Fruit Ninja.). As I wrote in my October column, Steve Jobs and Apple have changed so much of our personal and business lives. From the Mac, to the iPod, to the iPhone, and now the iPad, Apple has changed the way we work, listen to music, talk on the phone, take photos, and even the way we play. It is not only the adults who own these tablets and smartphones who are addicted to them, but also their children, whom you see playing with them on airplanes, in restaurants, and at home. Many toy companies have recognized this trend and are acting quickly to capitalize on it. We began our coverage of this growing category in our October 2011 Fall Toy Preview issue, and continue in this issue. We created a dedicated section, beginning on page 98, in this issue’s Toy Fair product coverage. And, most certainly, you will

22 • THE TOY BOOK

Jonathan Samet publisher

see much more coverage of app-related products and technology in future issues. Of course, there are other trends to follow and many great new products in other toy categories, as well. That is why we are proud to present our Toy Fair 2012 issue. Our strongest and most comprehensive issue of the year, this issue shows that we continue to be the leading source for the toy industry. Annually, in our Toy Fair issue, we kick off with our State of the Industry (page 40), which opens with an informative article by Sean McGowan, one of the leading financial analysts covering the toy industry. Sean reviews his predictions from last February, and then provides some industry trends and predictions for the upcoming year. We have also reached out to some leading players in retailing, manufacturing, and the inventor community to gain their perspective on the trends affecting the industry. We also present the strongest coverage of new products that manufacturers will be introducing this year (page 56). As in previous years, we break our coveragedown into key toy categories, and deliver the broadest coverage available of the show. We round out the issue with a number of articles on relevant topics such as social media, licensing compliance, toy safety, and maintaining customer loyalty, all important topics that the industry needs to address. Though this is my seventh year as publisher of The Toy Book, I have now been in the toy business for close to 30 years and I have always picked up the February issue of The Toy Book, read it cover to cover, referenced it throughout the year, and archived it for years after. I am certain that after you read this issue, you will do the same! ■

FEBRUARY 2012

Industry Update ‘GIANTS’ IS THE NEW SEQUEL TO LAST YEAR’S SKYLANDERS Activision is launching the sequel to last year’s Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure at American International Toy Fair. In Skylanders Giants, the sequel, the Portal Masters embark on an all-new adventure to save the Skylands. The video game features a new lineup of heroes, including giant-sized toys that use their massive scale and super strength to battle evil forces. Activision will showcase Skylanders Giants at Toy Fair. Additionally, entertainment licensing veteran Ashley Maidy has joined Activision to head the newly formed licensing division. Maidy has more than 16 years of experience, building licensing and merchandising programs for Sony Pictures and Saban Entertainment. In her new role, Maidy will extend Activision’s properties into complementary product categories, as well as comarketing and promotional programs. Maidy has also brought entertainment industry veteran Alicia Mandeville on board, who will leverage her licensing and merchandising experience to build powerful programs for Activision’s brands.

Skylanders Giants

24 • THE TOY BOOK

MAY CHEONG GROUP ACQUIRES MUSCLE MACHINES BRAND The May Cheong Group (MCG), manufacturers of Maisto and Bburago, has announced the acquisition of the tooling and intellectual property of the Muscle Machines brand from Bodylines/Bruce Schultz, the 3-D artist who worked on the original models. The Muscle Machines brand features American muscle car replicas with exposed chrome-plated engines, beefy rear wheels, and on the larger scales, steel-braided hoses. The distorted cars with cartoon-like features were represented on trading card art created by Australian artist Rohan Day, which accompanied the original 1:64 models and much of the packaging. Day has also been retained by MCG to create new artwork for the line. The company will showcase the Muscle Machines line at American International Toy Fair, and plans to ship to market starting at the end of Q2 2012.

TCG DEBUTS NEW COLLECTIBLE, COMPETITIVE GAME TCG (formerly known as The Canadian Group) is introducing Roxx, a new collectible, tradable, and competitive game of skill. In an exclusive arrangement, TCG has partnered with Imperial Toy to launch the brand in the U.S. Roxx are collectible game pieces that feature art in diverse themes, targeted to boys ages 7 and up. The game’s freestyle play features open-ended games using only the Roxx pieces. Trixx play uses launchers, play sets, and other accessories to enhance the Roxx experience. To reinforce collectibility and game play, Roxx will feature uniquely numbered proprietary and licensed designs for each series. Licensed assortments will include Marvel Super Heroes, Spider-Man, Marvel’s The Avengers, and more, distributed worldwide. TCG will also launch NHL assortments in Canada this year. An online component will allow Roxx game play to continue to be enhanced on the web, on an iPhone, or on an iPad. Roxx and related accessories are expected to hit retail shelves this summer.

Get the latest toy industry news delivered straight to your inbox each week for free! Subscribe to The Toy Book’s Toy Report. Just send a request to subscribe@adventurepub.com, and add that address to your address book to ensure delivery. For up-to-the-minute news, follow The Toy Book on Twitter: twitter.com/ToyBook, and “like” us on Facebook: facebook.com/TheToyBook. Visit our blog at www.toybook.com.

FEBRUARY 2012

Industry Update KIMMIDOLL GETS NORTH AMERICAN AGENT The Aird Group, creator of international brands Kimmidoll and Kimmi Junior, has appointed Redasign Studio as the North American licensing agent for both brands. The Aird Group has already inked a deal with Kids Preferred to distribute Kimmi Junior resin dolls, key chains, and additional merchandise for the specialty market. Kids Preferred will launch its products at American International Toy Fair. Kimmidoll is a modern version of the ancient Kokeshi dolls that were exchanged throughout Japan centuries ago. Kimmi Junior is the younger sister of Kimmidoll, and primarily targets girls ages 4-10. The Kimmidoll brand is distributed in more than 50 countries. Kimmi Junior, Bonnie

CLASSIC MEDIA SIGNS DEALS FOR WHERE’S WALDO? Classic Media has signed new consumer products partners for Where’s Waldo? in the U.S. Techno Source, a division of LF Products, will develop board games, puzzles, card games, and novelty items, including the original Where’s Waldo? search-and-find glitter wands. Classic Media has also signed agreements for cloth and collectible limited-edition dolls from Alexander Doll Company, and virtual goods from Virtual Greats. The new Where’s Waldo? program will hit retail this fall, timed to Waldo’s 25th anniversary.

NEW LICENSEES FOR SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN An initial list of licensees for Snow White and the Huntsman, the upcoming epic action-adventure movie that stars Kristen Stewart (Twilight), Charlize Theron (Monster), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), and Sam Caflin (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), has been announced. Committed licensees for Snow White and the Huntsman include Cardinal for trivia-based games and puzzles in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America; Rubie’s Costume Co. for costumes in the U.S. and Canada; High IntenCity for costume jewelry, novelty, and hair accessories in the U.S.; Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for a young adult novelization, distributed worldwide; and Pacific Solutions for prop replicas in the U.S. Other deals include HBA, accessories, decorative calendars, and apparel. The movie releases June 1. Products will launch up to six weeks prior to the film’s release at a range of retail outlets.

MING THE MINIBUS DVDS AND APPS PREMIERE Good Link International has released the first series of Ming the MiniBus DVDs. Each DVD has five different episodes in which Ming takes two students to a different location around the world. Through the three specially written songs for each episode, kids learn about an iconic place or cultural phenomena for that destination. The DVD series is divided into seven categories: Europe, North America, Eastern Europe, Asia, Pacific, South America, and Middle East/Africa. The episodes are in English with English subtitles. Additionally, starting this month, Apple’s App Store will feature 15 Ming the MiniBus apps. Each app will cost 99 cents, and will feature an 11-minute episode, a game, and the episode’s songs in a karaoke rendition. ■

26 • THE TOY BOOK

FEBRUARY 2012

S TAT S HOT Dollar Sales in Billions, U.S. Toy Industry Supercategories Categories

Annual 2009

Annual 2010

Change

Annual 2011

Change

Action Figures/Acc/Roleplay

$1.6

$1.4

-13%

$1.3

-7%

Arts & Crafts

$2.8

$2.7

-4%

Building Sets

$1.1

$1.2

$1.6

33%

Dolls

$2.6

$2.8

$2.7

-4%

Games/Puzzles

$2.4

$2.2

-8%

$2.1

-5%

Infant/Preschool

$3.0

$3.2

Outdoor & Sports Toys

$2.6

$2.8

Plush

$1.5

$1.7

13%

$1.3

-24%

Vehicles

$1.8

$1.6

-11%

Youth Electronics

$0.8

$0.6

-25%

$0.5

-17%

All Other Toys

$1.4

$1.5

$1.3

-13%

Total Toy Industry

$21.6

$22.0

$21.1

-4%

Source: The NPD Group /Consumer Tracking Service

TOP 10 FAMILY E NTERTAINMENT & CASUAL GAMES TITLES R AN KED BY T OTAL U.S. U NITS , D ECEMBER 2011 RANK 1

TITLE

JUST DANCE 3

DANCE CENTRAL 2

JUST DANCE KIDS 2

THE BLACK EYED PEAS EXPERIENCE

7 8 9

WIPEOUT 2

MICHAEL JACKSON: THE EXPERIENCE WIPEOUT: THE GAME ROCKSMITH

PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES JUST DANCE 2

Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service

28 • THE TOY BOOK

A MAZON . COM B EST-S E LLING T OYS & G AM ES D ECEM BER 27, 2011-J ANUARY 26, 2012

1 SYMA S107/S107G R/C HELICOPTER

2 ANGRY BIRDS: KNOCK ON WOOD GAME 3 RORY’S STORY CUBES

11 LEGO BRICKS & MORE BLUE BUILDING PLATE 12 PERPLEXUS EPIC 13 LEAPFROG APP CENTER DOWNLOAD CARD

4 LEAPFROG LEAPPAD EXPLORER LEARNING TABLET 14 SNAP CIRCUITS SC-300 5 QUIRKLE BOARD GAME

15 SPOT IT!

6 AIR SWIMMERS REMOTE CONTROL FLYING SHARK

16 LEGO ULTIMATE BUILDING SET

8 PERPLEXUS MAZE GAME

18 CHICA PLUSH FROM THE SUNNY SIDE UP SHOW ON SPROUT

10 LEAPFROG EXPLORER LEARNING GAME:

20 FIVE CROWNS

7 LEAPFROG LEAPPAD EXPLORER CARRY CASE

9 THE SETTLERS OF CATAN

MR. PENCIL SAVES DOODLEBURG

17 V FOR VENDETTA MASK

19 DOMINION

FEBRUARY 2012

Categories Consumers Are Purchasing for Kids, and the Seasonality Impacts Among These Categories

50%

45%

40% 35% Dollar Share

30%

25%

20% 15% 10%

Ite m s

Sp o

fo r

rti

G am e

G oo

So ftw

M us ic

om e

ar ds

th e

Ba b

G ift

St at io

Jul/Aug ʼ11

Vi d

Nov/Dec ʼ10

/P C

y/ In fa n

Bo o

Fo o

lth

Ar ts

Be a

ut y

fts

G ea

Sc ho

s, Vi d

Ap p

To ys

Spending by category will fluctuate depending on the time of year. Apparel and school gear rank much higher during back-to-school, while toys and DVDs do particularly well during the holiday season. Not illustrated in this chart, but worthy of a mention, is the role that seasonality plays within various retail channels. For example, mass merchants, which represent the largest percentage of sales overall, captured close to 40 percent of retail sales over the holiday shopping season (November-December), but just below 35 percent during the back-to-school season.

Source: The NPD Group/Kids Industry Data Service

120% 100%

How does spending on kids differ by age across categories?

Dollar Share

80% 60% 40%

Ar ts

Ba b

Ap p

ar el

ra fts y/ I nf C on an su t m Bo D VD er ok E s, s le c Vi de tron o ic s D ow nl oa d Fo ot w ea G r ift C ar d H s al H ea low e l t en Ite h & m Be s fo au rt ty he H om e M Pa us rty ic Su Sp pp or l i es tin g G oo Sc ds ho ol G ea St r Vi at de io ne o/ PC ry G am Vi To de ys e o So G ftw am a e re H ar dw ar e

20%

0-2 Years

3-5 Years

6-8 Years

12-14 Years

9-11 Years

Consumer electronics and music have a higher share with older children, while toys and party supplies tend to skew younger. When it comes to licensing, younger children, ages 3-5, represent the largest percentage of spending, with just under one-third of licensed products coming from this age group.

Source: The NPD Group/Kids Industry Data Service, Jan-Nov ’11

Should we be talking to the parents or the kids?

Children are being very vocal about what is being purchased for them, with 40 percent of sales being requested by the child. Older children have more of a voice, with 60 percent of sales being requested by the child. Girls in this age range edge out boys when it comes to requests, with 63 percent of sales for girls coming from the childʼs request, versus 60 percent of sales for boys.

Ages 0-8

Ages 9-14

1.6%

1.5%

Dollar Share

26.3%

37.0%

72.1%

Requested by Child

Not Requested

Donʼt Know

Requested by Child

61.6%

Not Requested

Donʼt Know

For those respondents that answered “Requested by Child”

Source: The NPD Group/Kids Industry Data Service, Jan-Nov ’11

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 29

Go Figure! by Funosophy

After the Toy Gets Home

by Nancy Zwiers, CEO of Funosophy, Inc.

e in the toy industry hope and dream for a strong sell-through of our toys. We expend a lot of effort getting consumers to buy our toys, and often define success in terms of sell-through. However, do we focus enough resources on maximizing the satisfaction children get from playing with our toys once the sale has been made? The short answer is “no.” While many toys do deliver hours of fun for children, it appears we often miss the mark on delivering play value. The Michael Cohen Group, a prominent research company based in New York, presented research at the 2011 PlayCon that reveals how we deliver play value as an industry. What they discovered represents a call-to-arms for the entire industry. With social media turbo-charging word-of-mouth advertising—both positive and negative—it is clear that delivering true play value is a key factor for sustainable success going forward. The group’s research suggests that the toy industry is on a slippery slope when it comes to how much time kids actually play with the toys we sell. Fourteen percent of parents (5 percent + 9 percent, below) say that most of the toys they buy are never used! Almost 30 percent of parents (21 percent + 4 percent + 3 percent, below) tell us that at least 25 percent of the toys they buy for their kids are used only once.

“What percentage of toys have you [parents] purchased that have been…”

Less than 25% of toys 25% to 50% of toys 51% to 74% of toys

75% to 100% of toys Total

Parents that said “Never Used”

Parents that said “Used Once”

Parents that said “Underused”

79%

72%

75%

21%

14%

100%

Reasons range from the child was uninterested in the toy to begin with (71 percent, and perhaps a poor selection) to a more disturbing reason: that the child quickly became bored with the toy (40 percent). Toys that break also contribute to the problem (22 percent). In terms of what kinds of toys are often unused or underused, some categories fare worse than others. Plush toys top those lists. Action figures for boys and dolls for girls are not far behind, although outdoor toys and dolls/action figures seem to do a better job in delivering play value. Some people may hear these statistics and not be concerned, thinking that repeat purchases aren’t important in our business. Since kids don’t buy the same toy twice, the industry might reason that there aren’t any consequences if a satisfactory experience is not delivered; kids will be moving on to the next new thing anyway. But key implications include pricing power/profitability, effects of word of mouth, and the ability to compete against screen-based play.

30 • THE TOY BOOK

FEBRUARY 2012

“Of underused toys, what percent came from the following categories?” Plush

Computer Games

Latest Gadget

Arts & Crafts

Board Games

Dolls/Action Figures

Outdoor

25%

21%

20%

19%

20%

14%

Pricing Power It appears that play value of a toy is related to how much a purchaser is willing to pay for the toy. A relatively small, closed box of Lego bricks successfully sells for $60 retail because purchasers trust that play value is there. On the other hand, according to The NPD Group, the average price of all toys sold in this country is declining, despite rising costs. Could this trend perhaps reflect the diminished overall perceived value of the toys we are selling?

Word of Mouth Our industry is being challenged like never before, and we should pay attention to this research, especially in an age when word of mouth is explosive. Cohen says, “It used to be when people had a negative experience with a product, they complained to a few friends and family members. In the age of social networking, unhappy consumers can easily reach millions of prospective purchasers with their criticism. The flip side is equally true—delivering a positive play experience can help a brand take off behind consumer recommendations.”

Screen-Based Competition Carly Shuler is a consultant for The Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop, where she evaluates trends related to children and play. She makes an interesting point about play value and monetary value of toys in general, versus another key kids’ entertainment competitor: digital screen-based play. Shuler says: “Though the industry often views boxed toys as an entirely different market than digitally distributed interactive media, today’s children are growing up in a world where play crosses the boundaries between physical and digital. We’re often paying almost $20 at retail for a toy that offers similar play value to a $2 app. While apps and other forms of digital media are usually cheaper to produce and distribute than boxed products, as these digital experiences become increasingly complex, they will continue to offer increased play value for a lower price point, forcing the toy industry to focus on providing more value for the money.” The toy industry has brilliantly mastered the art of making the sale. The opportunity now—and the strategic imperative—is to focus on improving the play value we deliver. Now is the time to invest in understanding, on a deeper level, how children play (aka play patterns), and what levers drive longer play sessions. One lever we all know and understand, but don’t always heed, is “open-ended creative play.” The more we create products that aid children’s creativity, the more engaged children will be in play over time. Features should not only drive the excitement needed to drive desire and purchase, but they ideally will also drive open-ended creative play. ■

Nancy Zwiers is CEO of Funosophy, Inc., a consulting firm and girls’ brand invention firm. For more information on company services, email Zwiers at nancy@funosophy.com. The Michael Cohen Group is a research firm with substantial business in the kids’ space. For more information on company services, email Michael Cohen at mcohen@mcgrc.com.

32 • THE TOY BOOK

FEBRUARY 2012

Talking Social Media

Social Media:

Facebook Is Where Friends and Enemies Gather PART 9 OF A SERIES by Andy Marken, Marken Communications

hen the Internet was in its infancy, an editor once commented that if a person didn’t have an email address, he had no reason to talk with him. Today, if you don’t have a Facebook page, it’s almost as though you don’t exist. That’s true of individuals, and increasingly, it’s true of companies. Facebook is the location to go for news, information, ideas, and friends. In eight years, Facebook has gone from zero to more than 800 million active members, and is published in more than 100 languages. People can’t produce infographics fast enough to keep up with Facebook’s growth. Put in a global perspective, if Facebook were a country, it would be the third most populous behind China and India. Because of its size and influence, Facebook has become a major source and resource for businesses. CEO Mark Zuckerberg sees Facebook becoming the “open” resource for individuals and organizations. He said, “People have really gotten comfortable not only sharing more information and different kinds, but more openly and with more people—and that social norm is just something that has evolved over time.”

first thing in the morning. • 28 percent of users check the website on smartphones before getting out of bed. For Facebook, it’s all about sharing—and selling. “By giving people the power to share, we’re making the world more transparent,” says Zuckerberg. Of course, Facebook has put all that transparency to good use. It has been reported that it gathers an average of 800 pages per user. Its stash about users includes check-ins, education, dates of birth, hometowns, name changes, relationships, shares, and much more. Many companies and organizations can see a lot of marketing potential in having fresh pages on Facebook.

PAGES FOR FANS Organizations—large and small—have rushed to Facebook aiming to have a major page presence even though the ability to measure results has been mixed to say the least. The growth of mobile apps is further stimulating Facebook page growth.

USERS ARE BUSY According to stats, every month the average Facebook user: • has 130 friends on the site. • sends out eight friend requests. • clicks “Like” nine times. • writes 25 comments. • becomes a fan of two pages. • is invited to three events. • is a member of 12 groups. Additionally, every day: • 50 percent of users log on. • 35 million users update their status. • 20 million users become fans of pages. • 48 percent of 18- to 34-year-old users check Facebook

34 • THE TOY BOOK

FEBRUARY 2012

Top brand pages include Facebook (58 million “likes”), YouTube (49 million), Coca-Cola (36 million), Disney (30 million), and Starbucks (27 million). While you may be quick to say your organization is no Disney or Starbucks, not being present on Facebook isn’t an option. Facebook’s recent SMB (small and medium businesses) survey found: • 46 percent were sole proprietorships. • 39 percent had one to five employees. • 77.5 percent created their Facebook page through the website. • 16.5 percent used a DIY Facebook tool. • 85 percent created business simply by sharing information about the business. • 62 percent shared content. • 47 percent reported that they saw an increase of website traffic from Facebook. The key is being there in a meaningful, profitable way. The worst thing you can do with Facebook (and your website and marketing/sales activities) is be boring. With Facebook that means having your page become stale. You need to gain your fans’ attention and keep it. A good way for organizations to achieve this is by using Facebook marketing strategies infographics. Just type “Facebook Marketing Infographics” in your search engine for hints. Choose tactics and combine them into a meaningful, results-oriented marketing campaign. Tactics by Socialmediaonlineclasses.com include asking fans to share, hosting a limited-time award activity, crowdsourcing content, sharing meaningful prizes, holding a photo contest, working with other websites, using quick response codes to link to information and locations, and promoting Facebook pages and activities through advertisements. Keep your Facebook page fresh so fans come back weekly, if not daily. The challenge when time and money are in critically short supply is to determine how well your Facebook efforts are working and your real or intangible return on investment (ROI).

WORK IN PROGRESS Measuring the success or shortcomings of social

FEBRUARY 2012

media, such as Facebook, is an evolving process. Some feel conventional, and emerging measurement techniques are okay, but others believe it is too soon to make an accurate measurement of such a young marketing channel. Everyone has different criteria and priorities for their Facebook activities, so just don’t focus on measuring your cash register. A sound effort can help you expand your fan base over time, or keep products from returning back to stores. Everyone can agree that if you aren’t trying, you can’t reap the benefits. How you strike it rich should depend on your long-term goals. In some ways, it’s like panning for gold in the early days of the West. You know it’s there, and you just have to keep swishing the pan around to pick the nuggets from the gravel.

LIKE? Companies and brands are like people—they like to be liked, too! But getting folks to hit the “Like” button is the beginning of a relationship you need to carefully nurture. Although many Facebook users utilize the “Like” button, the action means different things to different people. With some, it’s merely a way of social bookmarking so they can quickly find the location again. A study by ExactTarget concludes that: • 45 percent of Facebook users say they “like” a company at least monthly, while 35 percent say they never “like” a company. • 44 percent “like” something posted by a company on Facebook at least once a month. • Only 15 percent say “liking” a company’s Facebook page should always be interpreted as permission to post marketing messages that appear in a user’s News Feed. • 39 percent say their “like” should never be interpreted as permission. • People who “like” a lot of brands (11 or more)

THE TOY BOOK • 35

are more likely to be motivated by rewards, in the form of coupons or exclusive deals, in exchange for their “like.” • Younger consumers (age 18-26) tend to use the “Like” button for self-expression and public endorsement of a brand. • Consumers 27 and older are more likely to expect something of value in exchange for their “like.” • Among people who have “liked” at least one brand, 31 percent have avoided “liking” more brands because they do not want to push things into their friends’ News Feeds. • The average U.S. Facebook user “likes” an average of 14 companies/brands.

WHAT “LIKERS” EXPECT The majority of Facebook users feel that “liking” a company/brand is as far as the relationship should go. They aren’t interested in having their “like” taken too seriously, and they don’t want to suddenly begin receiving highly targeted, hard-sell marketing and communications messages. And, for the most part, Facebook users feel that information about friends should not be used by marketers at all! Many who “like” a brand, do it because: • 58 percent want to receive discounts or promotions. • 47 percent want to see updates on a company, person, or organization in their News Feed.

• 49 percent want to keep abreast of the organization or person’s activities. While users want to read content, share information, and post brand content, taking advantage of a “like” is an easy way to lose friends. They can unsubscribe, disengage, and “unlike” the company or brand. Companies, brand managers, and communications specialists walk a fine line as they begin to engage more with users on a one-to-one basis. Being social isn’t a one-way street like traditional advertising and publicity. Instead, be active in your brand’s space. The gold miners of the past didn’t chase all over the West swishing and digging everywhere. They found a good location that looked meaningful and promising, and started working. Chasing and counting fans, friends, “likes,” and followers is fool’s gold! ■

This is Part 9 of a series. Andy Marken is a marketing and communications consultant with more than 30 years of experience. He has written more than 400 articles. In addition to consulting with and being a spokesman for major clients, he also speaks on industry subjects, including management, marketing, and consumer relations. He can be reached at andy@markencom.com.

ADDITIONAL FACEBOOK USER STATISTICS • Facebook hosts nearly one million local business pages. • Facebook supports 70 languages, and 100 languages have translation services. • 50 percent of mobile users are active on the site.

• 48 percent of young Americans find their news on Facebook. • 48 percent of people online go to Facebook to meet new people.

• 3.5 billion pieces of content are added every week.

• 32 percent feel empowered on Facebook to do something they want to do.

• 2.5 billion photos are uploaded weekly.

• 20 percent lash out at companies/brands on the site.

• 3.5 million events are created every month.

• 77 percent read brand posts, News Feeds, special offers.

• 57 percent of people talk to others online more than in real life.

• 17 percent share that information with others.

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• 13 percent post about the brands.

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State of the Industry 2012 continued from cover I think, as usual, that the toy industry will not rise or fall much in the aggregate, but that the performance of individual companies will vary greatly. Moreover, the relentless onslaught of competition from tech toys will continue to nip at the heels.

Review of Last Year’s Predictions In this space a year ago, I made three general predictions. First, I predicted that retail sales of toys would be modest, but that since retail inventories began the year above desired levels, manufacturers’ shipments might actually be down on the year even if consumer takeaway was up. I think it worked out that way, although the final sales figures are still being tallied. I also predicted that manufacturing costs would continue to rise, pressuring the profits of manufacturers. This was accurate—costs for commodities such as plastic resin, oil, gasoline, paper, cotton, memory chips, and zinc were up double digits on average. On top of this, the Chinese yuan continued to appreciate, adding to manufacturing cost increases. The impact was seen in the gross margins of many companies, which either declined or did not expand as much as they might otherwise have done. Finally, I predicted that the topic of companies’ moving toy manufacturing out of China to other lower cost locations would gain more traction. I don’t think this turned out to be right, although it was meant to be a longer

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term conversation. I still think such moves are inevitable, but China remains overall the best place to make toys, and there hasn’t been much acceleration in the effort to move that production elsewhere. Two other aspects of 2011’s performance warrant a closer look. First, it appears that Walmart fared much better in 2011 than it had the prior year, causing some significant shifts in market share among the leading retailers. Online retailers continue to gain share too, but Walmart’s decision to offer layaway on toys, and its better execution of buying and merchandising, resulted in the market leader outperforming some of its rivals. Another aspect of 2011 that had a big impact on overall retail sales (not just toys) was the transformation of Black Friday into something that might be called Black Thursday/Friday. The decision by many retailers to start their Black Friday “door-busting” activity on Thanksgiving Day raised the ante on that weekend’s contest. Putting aside the “ethics” of opening stores and enticing shoppers away from Thanksgiving gatherings, I have some serious reservations about whether or not this is a good thing. I have big doubts that it’s good for business, and am fairly convinced that the net result of bigger, broader, deeper, earlier discounts that weekend is simply that sales get sucked out of December and profits are squeezed. When you see retail sales up double

digits over Black Friday weekend, it’s easy to get excited and think that the holiday season is going to be a strong one. But this past year you had to ask yourself, “Are consumers really planning to spend that much more than last year?” I don’t know about you, but I went into last holiday season feeling that at best I was going to spend the same as the prior year. More likely, I was going to spend less. So, if that cautiousness was prevalent, and consumers spent much more on Black Friday weekend, it only makes sense that the rest of the holiday season would be pressured. In fact, it was, and it only showed that consumers are becoming very well-trained to expect deep discounts over Black Friday weekend (and even before), going back into hiding right after the weekend, and then being enticed back into stores with more discounting. I wonder whether some retailers will wake up one day and realize the craziness of this pattern. I don’t believe the toy category is one that really stands to benefit much from the traffic-building hype of these door-buster sales. It seems to me that in order to lure shoppers out of their homes either on Thanksgiving night or in the next day’s pre-dawn hours, you have to offer the prospect of serious savings. Most toys are priced so low compared to other big-ticket items that the dollar savings (as opposed to percentages) really aren’t that enticing. Save $500 on a TV or a computer?

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State of the Industry 2012 Sure, I’ll get up early. Get a $500 tablet for $200? Sure, where do I line up? But am I gonna drag my tryptophan-laden butt out of bed to save $10 on a doll or even $50 on a big play set? Nah. Even if I do get up early to take advantage of big savings, am I going to work toys into my intricate savings-maximization strategy, which involves coordinating special prices that might last only an hour, and requires optimal parking lot positioning? Not so sure. I think the whole Black Friday thing has shown itself to be an invitation for retailers and manufacturers to lose margin, and I’m not sure it’s accomplishing the goal of building unit sales for toy companies.

2012 Predictions Here are four predictions for 2012. First, let me remind you that we have a big election coming up. The U.S. presidential election campaigns promise to be bruising, and the experience of past close contests have shown that consumers tend to sit on their hands as they watch the theatrics and wait for the outcome. The 2008 election came against the backdrop of the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy and the global financial meltdown. Even if the context this year is not as tumultuous, I think it’s going to absorb a lot of mind share, and will, at the very least, make it harder to get the advertised messages heard. Second, I predict that manufacturing costs will actually turn out to be more of a source of positive surprise than negative. Most commodities (with the exception of the Chinese yuan) are

42 • THE TOY BOOK

below their peak levels, and assuming current prices hold, will be lower at mid-year (the peak factory time) than it was a year earlier. This should allow manufacturers and marketing companies to preserve gross margins without having to rely on significant price increases, and should leave toys more attractively priced this coming holiday season. Third, I predict that growth in markets outside the U.S. and Europe will continue to accelerate. In what is one of the most important trends affecting the future of the toy industry, a strong, prosperous, and “acquisitive” consumer middle class is rapidly emerging in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and elsewhere. Many of these markets are characterized by faster growth in the population of kids, and/or much faster rates of growth in the purchasing power of middle class consumers. These people have been exposed via either traditional or new media to the products they want, and, with their basic housing/food needs met more than in the past, they are in a position to consume. I believe that these markets’ growing ability to spend will soon result in international sales exceeding domestic sales for giant U.S. toy companies like Hasbro and Mattel. Finally, I predict that digital toys will continue to make inroads. The industry has seen many toys over the years that attempted to bridge the world between interactive digital entertainment and traditional toys. Most past attempts have failed to capture a broad market. In many cases, it may

have been that the toys weren’t much fun, quite frankly, offering new technology but not innovative play patterns. Others actually offered innovation, but it was difficult to convey the marketing message in a 30-second TV commercial. With the advent of smartphones and tablets as popular devices among young consumers, we have already seen a number of toys that work with the devices and offer enhancements to the digital experience. While I predict that many of these will fail, I believe that two factors are working in their favor. First, the emergence of alternative media channels (Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Quick Response Codes) has made it much easier to communicate messages that can’t be succinctly delivered in 15 or 30 seconds. Second, and perhaps more importantly, young consumers are much more likely now to expect a degree of digital interaction from their toys, even if the toys look and act like traditional toys. In the past, consumers had to be told that their toys interacted with a digital device; now it’s almost assumed. I think this may tip the odds of success in favor of some digital toys. Happy Toy Fair to all. ■

Sean McGowan is a managing director in the Equity Research department of Needham & Co., a New York-based investment bank. He has been covering toy stocks since 1986, and has also covered (currently or in the past) video games, juvenile products, sporting goods, and consumer electronics.

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State of the Industry 2012 Anne Marie Kehoe, Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Toys, Walmart What is the effect of online retail on your overall business? Do you anticipate continued growth in 2012 and beyond? We see customers responding to our Pick Up Today and Site to Store programs as convenient shopping options online. We are seeing growth in our online business and are optimistic for additional growth in 2012. What are your thoughts on the “appcessory” category of toys geared for use with smartphones and tablet computers? We see this as the natural progression of new technology and a way the toy industry can continue to innovate and stay relevant. Toys that can be used alone or enhanced with technology makes great sense for customers, and we’re prepared to provide those options at a great value. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? Kids and parents are responding to innovation and items that serve dual purpose. “Play and learn” and “play and activity” are popular. Did you have success with higher price point items for holiday 2011? Is there an opportunity to expand in this area going forward? We saw customers respond to products both at opening price points and higher price points. Our customers are seeking value and therefore look at the features and benefits that come at any price. If a product is innovative, relevant, and entertaining, a customer is more likely to see the value and make the purchase even if at a higher price. We also saw many customers utilize our Christmas layaway option, which allowed them more flexibility in their budget to make bigger ticket purchases. What effects has social media had on the way you do business? Our customers who are engaged in social media are more willing to give their honest feedback. It’s a great way to find out early how customers respond, what they like and what they don’t like, and we engage with customers online often. We also provide information about our new toys and great value on toys via social media channels since it’s a fast and effective way to communicate with customers who are interested in that information.

44 • THE TOY BOOK

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JohnAlteio,DirectorofToys&Games, JohnFrascotti,GlobalChiefMarketingOfficer, Hasbro What is the anticipated effect of online retail on your business? Do you anticipate continued growth in 2012 and beyond? We anticipate that online commerce, and multiple forms of online engagement with consumers, will continue to grow significantly in 2012. This is strategically beneficial in several ways. Online engagement with consumers gives us a wide range of opportunities to provide kids with deeper and more meaningful online brand immersion. It also provides us with the opportunity to communicate with parents and grandparents who are doing research about our brands and products. We believe that an engaged and informed consumer is a major advantage for us. Kids who engage with our brands online develop a stronger identity with our brands, and consumers who research our brands and products will gain a better understanding of Hasbro’s high standards for quality and safety. Toys and technology continue to intersect in new ways. Have you altered your product strategy to take advantage of this growing trend? We have been developing several new technologies and successfully embedding those technologies into many of our most popular toys and games for many years. One important example is our continued emphasis on providing consumers with all new ways to enjoy our gaming brands on all major digital platforms. Clearly, technology will continue to play an important role going forward as we look to provide increasingly immersive brand experiences for children and families around the world. Our design, development, and engineering groups will continue to develop technologies that make a difference to our consumers. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? We continue to see the growing importance of entertainment and all types of visual media, delivered across a multiplicity of platforms. Hasbro will continue to deliver a broad variety of entertainment offerings, from innovative toys with the latest technologies, to new movies and TV shows, to online extensions of our product experiences, to a wide range of gaming options that can be enjoyed on all key digital and analogue platforms.

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Amazon.com Did you have success with higher price point items for holiday 2011? Is there an opportunity to expand in this area going forward? Amazon customers purchased items at all price points this holiday season. Our goal is to continually expand our selection and provide a variety of mainstream favorite toys as well as hard-to-find niche toys. What are your thoughts on the “appcessory” category of toys geared for use with smartphones and tablet computers? With the popularity and demand for tablets and smartphones, opportunities for innovation are limitless for toy manufacturers. As gadgets are becoming popular gift items for kids, appcessories have become the new tool to engage, entertain, and teach kids. We think manufacturers that are developing relevant content and activities will help meet the needs of our customers as they look for ways to integrate fun and learning through technology. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? We’ve seen the influence of digital content on physical items, and we think it will continue to be a big trend this year. For example, the popular app Angry Birds made its way to the physical world with plush dolls and a board game. In addition, appcessories have become incredibly popular and will continue to be a major trend. How do you keep abreast of the latest trends in the toy industry? There are several ways we stay on top of trends. Trade shows like Toy Fair have been a great source of direction for our team. Also, listening to what our customers say through customer reviews and forums has been really helpful. In addition, our best-sellers and movers and shakers lists are an important tool for us to learn what customers are currently buying, and gauge what items will be popular. Lastly, we work very closely with toy manufacturers so that we stay up to speed with future plans and launches.

THE TOY BOOK • 45

State of the Industry 2012 Mark Sullivan, EVP, Marketing, Spin Master What are your thoughts on the “appcessory” category of toys geared for use with smartphones and tablet computers? Most consumers have already invested hundreds of dollars to get the processing power in their phone or tablet. What we’ve done is married that power to simple toys so consumers get an incredibly “smart” toy at a very reasonable price. We have a line of AppMates toys that we’ve developed with our partners at Disney, which turn your iPad into a virtually endless play mat, allowing kids to take Pixar Cars characters and have them virtually interact with the world of Radiator Springs. We have an Appfinity brand that lets you take your smartphone and play “shooter” games with our AppBlaster, driving games with our AppDrive, fishing games with our AppFishing, and much more to come. What kind of a shift are you seeing in overseas toy manufacturing? As labor rates in Southern China continue to increase, the major levers to keep costs in line are: 1) looking at other lower cost areas to manufacture, 2) adding automation, or 3) designing the toy to minimize the labor needed. What would you like to see retailers do differently in the toy aisle? From a manufacturer’s perspective, we know that a high percentage of people that make it to the toy section end up buying a toy, but a low percentage of people who enter a “big box” retailer make it to the toy section. Whatever retailers can do to help draw people to the section— demos, interactive displays, rewards for visiting—would help boost toy sales.

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Carter Keithley, President, Toy Industry Association How did the toy industry fare in 2011? What is your outlook for 2012? Toys fared quite well in 2011. After a slow start, toy sales picked up nicely from Thanksgiving/Black Friday through to year-end. While toys overall was probably not a core category that benefited from the earlier openings on Black Friday (or Thanksgiving itself), shoppers headed out early to make sure they were able to get their top picks before the toys sold out. Although shoppers are attracted to low prices, it is still a value-conscious economy, and we’re expecting that to persist in 2012. More and more, consumers are showing that they will skip a less expensive item for a higher-priced item that is known for its longstanding play value and quality. For example, despite its higher price point, the LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer was a huge hit last year thanks to the tablet’s ability to educate and entertain kids for hours on end. On the production end of things, manufacturing costs in 2011 were well-above 2010 levels, leading some manufacturers to increase wholesale prices. We also saw price increases among Chinese factory operators hoping to offset their cost increases and recapture some profit that was lost in concessions made to their U.S. customers. However, we are hearing that some relief is in sight for 2012. By late 2011, the rate of increase had slowed, suggesting that during peak production this year, comparisons will be quite favorable. Finally, we can’t forget a major victory for the industry that came in August 2011, when the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) was amended to address unintended consequences. The TIA worked for more than three years alongside numerous other industry organizations to call for the adoption of legislation to fix the problems with the CPISA. This included suggesting language that would cure the problems while preserving the important consumer product safety protections within the Act. The Amendment proved to be a victory for consumers, legislators, NGOs, and the industry, and this victory will be felt in the months and years to come.

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Sharon DiMinico, Founder and CEO,

Marc Bertrand, CEO,

Learning Express

MegaBrands

Did you have success with higher price point items for holiday 2011? Is there an opportunity to expand in this area going forward? Yes, we had success with some higher price items, especially if they were tied to a promotion and advertised in our catalogs. Examples include Alex’s Super Art Table, Original Toy Co.’s Trampoline, Melissa & Doug’s Easel, PlaSmart’s PlasmaCar, and International Plaything’s Calico Critters Townhouse.

Toys and technology continue to intersect in new ways. Have you altered your product strategy to take advantage of this growing trend? Absolutely. The growth and impact of technology is being felt everywhere, and we are definitely exploiting this trend. We were one of the first toy companies to include on-pack QR codes in 2011, allowing consumers to scan and access mobile microsites that delivered focused POP messages. We have created online digital interactive instruction books for our construction sets, and in 2012 we will launch a series of iPad apps developed to help parents create a rewarding play experience for their children with our core Mega Bloks First Builders preschool construction toys.

Is online retailing having a negative effect on traffic to brick-and-mortar stores? What strategies are you implementing to make certain shoppers return to the toy aisles? Online retailing is having a negative impact on all brick-and-mortar stores. We believe we are positioning ourselves to effectively compete by offering more exclusive products, running strong promotions, and marketing our customer-centric services such as free gift wrapping, VIP programs, and free personalization. It’s not possible to compete with Amazon on price, so we have to offer our customers an in-store experience they cannot get online. What are consumers looking for when they walk through the toy aisles? Our customers are looking for unique products that are of exceptional quality at a good value. Do you have certain eco-friendly requirements toy manufacturers must adhere to? We actively partner with vendors who are good stewards of the environment. For example, Creativity for Kids is one of our key arts and crafts suppliers and they have used innovative package designs so the child utilizes all elements of the kit, including the packaging.

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Are tweens and teens still interested in toys? How are you trying to reach them? Not just tweens and teens, but adults as well! Our Mega Bloks Halo, Need for Speed, and Hello Kitty lines have proven that construction toys can deliver a great experience not only for children, but also for older kids and adult collectors. This year, Mega Bloks Power Rangers will leverage more than 20 years of brand equity that reaches a broad age range, and of course the launch of Mega Bloks World of Warcraft construction sets is already eagerly anticipated by fans of the franchise. In our RoseArt activity lines, kids of all ages have fallen in love with customizing their own Color Blanks characters and sharing their work in our online gallery. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? The economy will likely continue to be an issue, and in an uncertain economic climate, parents need to make the most of their toy spending. We are well-positioned across all of our product lines with wonderfully designed toys that deliver fun and engaging play experiences—all delivered with unbeatable value. The digital world will continue to grow in importance, as will the opportunity to involve our customers more directly in the development and decision-making process.

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State of the Industry 2012 JuliaFitzgerald,ChiefDigitalEngagement Officer, Toys & Sporting Goods, Sears Holdings Corporation What are consumers looking for when they walk through the toy aisles? In an effort to manage budgets, we see parents and gift givers sticking to their child’s wishlists and to their budgets, so they may be buying fewer items overall for holiday. We see parents looking for toys with “staying playing power.” Those are the toys that will still be used months after the holiday, not just the next day. Some of the classic play patterns did very well last year—construction, dolls, and bikes—and we would expect to see the same this year. What effects has social media had on the way you do business? Social media has impacted how our customers learn about our products, our deals, and our events. Whether it is Rico Rodriguez tweeting about our Fab 15 toys, bloggers posting our videos of the hottest toys, or moms posting our wishlists on Facebook or posting about our special sales on Café Mom, social media is a major force in our communication plan. Our Playdate Place Blog continues to attract moms and caregivers who share great insights around play, toys, birthdays, and how to make them special. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? We continue to see that innovation and strong brands will win the day. We see that new technology will influence toys heavily in 2012 as toys merge with screens and app play. There is also an evolving trend in the way parents and gift givers shop for toys—it is more of a multi-channel marketplace with every option available for researching and buying at home, in stores, or on the go.

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Stephen Berman, President and CEO, JakksPacific Toys and technology continue to intersect in new ways. Have you altered your product strategy to take advantage of this growing trend? Infusing technology in toys is a way to deliver innovation, “wow” factor, and a unique point of difference. Our strategy is to integrate technology if it makes sense to the play pattern or license, or if it provides an affordable mass-market alternative to more expensive versions. For example, our Spy Net line infuses real working technology, such as night vision and digital imagining, into classic spy toys, taking them well beyond role-play while playing up the “James Bond” appeal of high-end electronics and interactive gadgets. Are tweens and teens still interested in toys? How are you trying to reach them? We believe that tweens and teens are still interested in toys but it takes the right kind of technology and license to get their attention. For example, this year we are offering The Walking Dead Deluxe TV Games, based on AMC’s highly rated show, The Walking Dead. Zombies are a huge trend right now, and our plug-and-play title captures the look and feel of the series, and allows gamers to experience the action adventure from a pump-and-shoot shotgun controller through multiple levels of zombie madness. And as with all of Jakks’ TV Games titles, the controller simply plugs into the A/V jacks of any standard TV, and contains multiple games inside each controller with no additional consoles or software required. What kind of a shift are you seeing in overseas toy manufacturing? China remains the dominant region for sourcing product, but we are exploring other regions as they develop the quality, capacity, and infrastructure to accommodate our needs. With increasing labor costs and strained labor availability in China, we are looking for cost-effective alternatives so that we can remain competitive.

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State of the Industry 2012 Kathleen McHugh, President, American Specialty Toy Retailing Association Is online retailing having a negative effect on traffic to brick-and-mortar stores? It’s no surprise that technology accelerates change, but the speed at which Internet shopping has changed consumer behavior at the store level was faster than our independent stores anticipated. As one retailer said, “What I thought would take a year or two to manifest took less than three months!” For stores experiencing less traffic, it’s hard to sort out what is caused by Internet shopping versus the economy, but we do have some clear trends. Price shoppers are not showing up, or not making a purchase when they do. Buy local shoppers are identifying themselves to retailers and making clear their commitment to the store. Purchases of higher ticket items ($100 or more) are shifting online. How did independent retailers fare in 2011? In a hot-off-the-presses survey taken immediately after the 2011 holidays, over 50 percent of ASTRA retailers reported increases in sales in Q1, Q2, and Q3. For the fourth quarter, 80 percent of retailers reported an increase in sales ranging from 5-10 percent. What effects has social media had on the way independent retailers do business? Independent retailers build their businesses on relationships, so social media is a good fit for the specialty store model. It’s not so much that it’s transforming as it is one more useful tool in the relationship-building toolbox. Not only does it support sales, it also supports the delivery of customer loyalty ideas such as buying local and saying no to using independent stores as unpaid, involuntary showrooms for online sales. ASTRA has made big breakthroughs using social media for support of our Best Toys for Kids program and Neighborhood Toy Store Day. We pushed the specialty toy message directly to consumers through mommy bloggers, Facebook advertising, and other outlets in 2011, resulting in 300 million consumer impressions about Neighborhood Toy Store Day.

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Chuck Scothon, SVP, Marketing, Mattel North America Division What would you like to see retailers do differently in the toy aisle? We continually partner with our customers to work with them to create a meaningful experience at retail. We all know that establishing a clear reason for being with the consumer is essential, and each retailer has a different approach. It’s important to improve the shopping experience by finding ways to make it easier to navigate the toy aisle, simplifying it, and making the experience fun for both kids and adults. Toys and technology continue to intersect in new ways. Have you altered your product strategy to take advantage of this growing trend? We’re seeing more and more technology being incorporated into classic, basic toys because the technology that is being used is so much more affordable and accessible. This year we are introducing Fashion Camera Barbie, a doll with a digital camera built into it that displays the image. It’s not just a “toy” camera, it has the resolution of an iPhone for a $50 retail price. We are also seeing technology, with girls specifically in mind, gaining traction industry-wide. Have licensed products hit a plateau, or is there an opportunity to expand licensed products and evergreen brands? We connect with our consumers through stories that help shape play experiences—not only with our IP, but also with licensed properties and third-party content that is popular with kids. Regardless of platform, properties with great content that resonate with kids have the opportunity to be licensed across multiple categories. Those who are thinking differently now are the ones who are going to better maximize their properties.

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State of the Industry 2012 Eric Levin, Division Head, TechnoSource,adivisionof LFProducts What is the effect of online retail on your business? Do you anticipate continued growth in 2012 and beyond? As consumers purchase more and more online, it has really begun to impact all retailers of consumer goods. However, online retailers still seem to be best at driving sales based on deep discount promotions with a strong sense of urgency and selling “considered purchase” items. Given this, it puts a lot of pressure on toy companies to work with online retailers to plan promotions and make sure our products are included. This is tough on everyone’s margins, but necessary for the visibility and volume. Additionally, making sure your key items are on kids’ holiday gift lists is more important than ever. Has partnering with retailers for exclusive products been a key component of your product mix? Do you plan to expand on this in 2012? In the past, this has not been a large part of our business model. However, as retailer consolidation continues to be the dominant trend, this has to become more important. We are looking at ways to do this more aggressively than ever before. What would you like to see retailers do differently in the toy aisle? We would like to see more patience from retailers. Toys seem to be getting more and more like the movie business. If you don’t have a huge opening weekend at the box office, the movie is a failure. Some toys need to be explored to be truly enjoyed. It can take some time for a new toy or game to build via word of mouth. Give a good toy a chance to be played with before it is written off.

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Bruce Lund, Founder, Lund and Company Invention What kind of a shift are you seeing in overseas toy manufacturing? There is a positive message that continues to appear and reappear in the press. The recent issue of Control Engineering discusses the return of manufacturing to the U.S. For certain product sectors, the “tipping point” is when the manufacturing cost advantage that China has long enjoyed will no longer be compelling enough to justify the disadvantages of making products so far from home, and this is predicted to take place as early as 2015. It is estimated that seven industry groups could add $100 billion to the U.S. economy as manufacturing is repatriated back to our shores. What do you see as major trends affecting your business in the year ahead? The cost of manufacturing toys in China is up as much as 20 percent in the last year alone, and that is on top of the increases of recent years. Labor costs are the main reason for the most recent increases, as well as new requirements for safety testing, material costs, and shipping. A toy with a single motor mechanism, of which we have created and sold many, will now retail for $30, when only a few years ago it would have been $19.95. A two-motor, TVpromoted mechanism is now $50 at retail, where a few years ago it would have been $29.95-$34.95. Are tweens and teens still interested in toys? How are you trying to reach them? There is undoubtedly a “tectonic shift” in the value prospect of games and how the consumer, teens in particular, perceives them. One commentator has suggested that if more people are actually playing games, courtesy of digital platforms, they may become consumers of more traditional cardboard and plastic games, as well. One can hope. At the very least we all need to take a hard look at what we are doing and how it is working, and use this as the incentive to get better at what we do. Now is the time to create more engaging games, more fun products, more diverse, better-promoted, and better-marketed products, distributed and retailed in new and better ways.

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John Barbour, CEO, LeapFrog Enterprises What effects has social media had on the way you do business? We recognize the importance of social media in today’s culture. It’s a valuable way to bring our brand closer to consumers, build community, and stay top of mind. Currently, LeapFrog has more than 539,000 Facebook followers, an active Twitter handle, and a YouTube channel. We believe it’s important to engage our fans in conversation, and encourage a consistent twoway communication. We find it rewarding to hear fan stories, gather feedback, and announce big news in social media. Facebook, for example, is where we first teased LeapPad Explorer. This approach was very successful, generating consistent interest and excitement leading into our biggest product launch of 2011. Toys and technology continue to intersect in new ways. Have you altered your product strategy to take advantage of this growing trend? LeapFrog has been combining toys and tech in innovative ways for over 15 years. We want to be everywhere kids want to play, and to ensure they have a positive and engaging learning experience. We take into consideration what a consumer wants, where they want to shop, and what they need. We recently altered our product strategy to include App Cards, which provide a way for consumers to purchase our digital learning content through the convenience of their retail shopping. This has been especially popular for gift-giving occasions. Have licensed products hit a plateau, or is there an opportunity to expand licensed products and evergreen brands? LeapFrog continues to find opportunities with licensed products. Currently, we are focused on strengthening existing partnerships and expanding our digital learning library. Recently, we announced licensing deals with a variety of entertainment and educational brands, including Kidz Bop, Word World, Discovery Education, Hasbro, Hit Entertainment, and Nickelodeon.

FEBRUARY 2012

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Toy Book Exclusive

by Melissa Tinklepaugh

odee, a chain of codeable building blocks that Techno Source plans to launch at retail this fall, was inspired by the doctoral project of two MIT students, Saul Griffith and Jonathan Bachrach. The project explored nanotechnology and how objects could be built from codes, but Dan Klitsner, founder of Kid Group, saw the project’s essence as the heart of a new toy. Recommended for ages 6 and up, Codee is a single chain that can build many different things when left to a child’s imagination, and also specific animal creatures with the right code configurations. A green and orange chain could make a turtle, for example. “When you first look at it, it just looks like a bunch of green and orange blocks,” says Klitsner. “But then when you put it together, all of them line up in the right place to make the shell orange and the legs green.” Klitsner, who invented Bop It, met Griffith and Bachrach at a TED (Technology/Entertainment/Design) conference and then met with the pair in his San Francisco office to look at different projects they were working on. Toward the end of the meeting, they pulled out a little chain that caught Klitsner’s eye and became the basis for the Codee toy, Klitsner says. “I saw the potential [of Codee] because it was the idea of a no-loose parts kind of construction toy,” says Klitsner. “It intrigued me that you could just have this single chain and configure it into different shapes.”

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That was about three years ago. When Eric Levin, division head at Techno Source, saw Codee about a year ago, it was already deep into development. Techno Source loved Codee’s addictive tactile nature, its simple and fun play value, and especially its unique code system. “Codee is a bit of a category buster,” says Levin. “It has a little bit of art activity play, a little bit of construction play, a little bit of puzzle play, and a little bit of creativity play all rolled into one.” While the chains come with instructions for specific figures, kids can create their structure without following a code, then write down and share the code for their own invention. “That was a real goal: how to let kids be involved in the invention process,” says Klitsner. Techno Source and Kid Group are working on a microsite and app for sharing codes to new Codee creations. After a code is entered, the site will build the 3-D figure online. “Even though we have codes for specific things, the whole idea is what they call crowdsourcing, where you have the ability for many people to contribute ideas,” says Klitsner. “You can connect all of these chains together to make a chain as long as you want and build something as big as you want, but it would always be definable with code.” Techno Source worked closely with Kid Group to develop the product line, which it plans to launch in six single-color strands, packed with a mystery code. The company also plans to launch a Special Edition Codee series, engineered to build specific creations, in six themed, two-color strands—robot (black and white), scorpion (orange and black), alligator (green and black), flamingo (white and pink), penguin (black and white), and pig (white and pink). Attachable accessories may include special eyes and feet to customize the Codee once it’s built. Once a Codee chain is assembled correctly, the finished figure has moveable joints and can be posed. A chain easily disassembles, as well. With a tug on the ends, the Codee creature turns back into a long chain. “It sort of looks like a magic trick right before your eyes,” says Klitsner. “You pull on it, and there’s this three-dimensional character that turns back into a chain.” ■

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Dark Horse Offers a Unique Take on the Good Luck Trolls

Toy Book Exclusive

he Good Luck Troll was originally created in 1959 by Danish fisherman and woodcutter Thomas Dam. At various times since the early 1960s, Trolls have been a topselling toy, building a seldom-achieved brand equity. Dam Things, which holds all rights to the works of Thomas Dam, is in the process of launching a complete slate of merchandise activities and products for the Good Luck Trolls. Dark Horse Comics has been granted the license for a collectibles program. The line will consist of 15 different trolls, some of which are rare, sold in mystery box assortments. Dark Horse felt the Good Luck Troll would be a natural fit in the designer vinyl and specialty retail arena, and has created Trolls with unique variations of color and surface treatments. The product development was closely supervised by Dam Things and its brand manager Dannie Festa of Festa Entertainment, including a trip from Denmark to the West Coast prototyping facility to assess and approve the works in progress. The mystery box, or “blind-box” trading figures, are essentially the same product, varying in decoration and materials and sold at random in sealed packages. Some of the figures are common to every counter display, and some are scarce, and are known as “chase” figures. The ratio of availability is printed on a graphic on each package, so the consumer knows the relative scarcity of the figure purchased. This type of assortment is common in Japan, but a relatively recent phenomenon in the U.S. The Good Luck Trolls “mystery box” is presented in a counter display unit, holding 15 individual blind boxes. Each Troll is packaged in an opaque foil bag inside its box to prevent tampering or viewing prior to purchase. Dark Horse’s previously produced “mystery box” assortments of Japanese stop-motion animation character Domo have continually sold out at retail. Rather than reprint its Domo figures, the company has simply created new designs, and presented a new series. This will be the approach intended for Good Luck Trolls as well.

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Toy Book Exclusive

PPW Toys Has Yo Gabba Gabba!

ans asked PPW Toys for more Yo Gabba Gabba! character figures, and the company will deliver this spring. The new Yo Gabba Gabba! Jumbo Action Figures are vinyl, articulated, and will range from seven inches to 10 inches tall. PPW Toys will introduce two lines of plush dolls based on characters from the Mr. Men and Little Miss book series in the U.S. market. The large Designer Plush dolls will measure 12 inches tall. The collectible four-inch Minis include a plastic clip to conveniently attach to any bag or backpack. Both plush lines feature colorful and embroidered character logos. The third figure in the company’s Elvis Mr. Potato Head line will make its debut in the third quarter of this year. Elvis Presley Mr. Potato Head Blue Hawaii follows the company’s previously released Elvis Live and Elvis ’68 Special figures. As with the first two versions, production will be limited and focused on the specialty retail channel. Elvis Presley Mr. Potato Head Blue Hawaii

Hasbro Gets Dizzy

asbro dazzles young girls with the introduction of Dizzy Dancers. The line includes twirling and spinning animals, from the makers of Furreal Friends. Pull the included dizzy cord to set the pets in motion, spinning round and round. Each Dizzy Dancer pet comes with a spinning base, a dizzy cord, and a twistin’ tricks card. More than 50 Dizzy Dancers characters will be available this year, and girls can interchange the top and bottom of any pet to create a custom Dizzy Dancers collection of her own. The Dizzy Dancers Dizzy Twirlin’ Dance Studio play set complements the Dizzy Dancers assortment. Appropriate for ages 4 and up, the pink play set features tons of places for pets to twirl, including various dance floors, slides, and ramps. The dance studio includes one Dizzy Dancers pet, a spinning base, and a dizzy cord. Twistin’ tricks cards challenge girls to show off a new dance trick with their Dizzy Dancers Pet. Hasbro celebrates Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head’s 60th anniversary by renewing their wedding vows. Mashly in Love Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head can hold hands and show off their rings as they celebrate the big day. The limited-edition, 22-piece set includes Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head and lots of accessories: holding hands, top hat and tux, veil, wedding handband, and more.

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Diggin for Capz

ith Diggin’s ZapCapz and ZapCapz Mini games, kids can strike the caps and watch them fly and flip around. The game requires skillful shots, and executing precision landings helps players accumulate points. Diggin also releases the GoGo Pogo, an electronic multi-game pogo bouncer, and the Bucket o’ Balls Baseball and Golf sets, which help kids learn the basics of the sports.

GoGo Pogo

Imperial’s Got Kidz Bop Glammerati

mperial Toy introduces a new product line of pop star role-play toys based on kids’ music brand Kidz Bop. The Kidz Bop Glammerati Party Like a Pop Star product line includes blinging microphones, instruments, fashion accessories, glam kits, and more with on-trend styles and color palettes, and technological features. The items include LumeFX light-up features, VIP allaccess backstage badges, concert tickets, and Kidz Bop songs built right in. Imperial expects to launch the line timed to coincide with the release of Kidz Bop 22 this summer. Imperial’s Super Miracle Bubbles line adds the Super Miracle Bubbles Bubble Turbine, allowing kids to create giant bubbles and perform a variety of bubble tricks. Other new Super Miracle Bubbles products include Lunar Light Up Bubble Blaster, Starlight Orbs, and the Dip & Twirl Bubble Pinwheel. Kidz Bop Kids Imperial’s new line of Disney Super Miracle Bubbles are based on characters from Disney Consumer Products, including Disney Princess, Disney Fairies, Toy Story, Cars, Minnie Mouse, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. The product line includes Minnie Mouse and Disney Princess Bubble Tea Party Sets, Mickey Mouse and Disney Fairies 3-D Bubble Sets, and Mickey Mouse, Disney Princess, and Cars Bubble Bellies. Also new to the Super Miracle Bubble line is a licensed Go Bubbles assortment. The Go Bubbles product line includes kid-sized bubble push toys fashioned after the Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, Disney Princess Carriage, and Hit Entertainment’s Thomas the Tank Engine. Each Go Bubbles push toy stands over 18 inches high, produces a continuous stream of bubbles when pushed, and includes a full bottle of Super Miracle Bubbles Premium Plus bubble solution. Imperial’s Kaos brand innovates water balloon play with the use of high-performance launchers and accessories. Kaos Cyclops and Nemesis are one-handed water balloon launchers designed to launch water balloons up to 150 feet with a simple flick of the wrist. They have large scoop tops for quick reloads, and come with 25 biodegradable Kaos water balloons. The Kaos Catapult is a super slingshot that launches water balloons up to 150 feet. Imperial also introduces a new line based on MGA Entertainment’s Lalaloopsy property. Imperial plans to produce novelty toys that will be available beginning this fall, and Lalaloopsy bubble, sand, and beach toys beginning in spring 2013. Imperial will introduce a comprehensive line of bubbles, bubble accessories, and novelty products based on superhero characters from the upcoming Marvel’s The Avengers and The Amazing Spider-Man movies. Imperial’s novelty toy line for fall is expected to include play cell phones and watch projectors.

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Antelopes and More From Collecta

ollecta International, Ltd. offers a variety of animal figures. Shown here are antelopes (clockwise from top): Waterbuck, Giant Sable Antelope, Black Wildebeest, and Giant Eland Antelope.

Yomega’s Got a Yo to Pro System

omega meets a variety of skill levels and trick needs with the Yomega Yo to Pro Counter Display. Rookie players start with the auto-return Brain, while seasoned pros will go for the Raider and Maverick. They’ll keep coming back as they build their skills along the Yo to Pro dial. Yomega’s yo-yo packaging features the Yo to Pro dial system, plus easy-tounderstand feature icons and a collectible poster.

PlaSmart Launches the PlasmaCar Pro

erplexus Twist, from PlaSmart, Inc., is a new addition to the Perplexus marble maze game line. Perplexus Twist adds a fourth dimension—the player must twist and realign the tracks to escape traps, decoys, and cliffhangers. Each Perplexus game, available in 3-D and 4-D, is a marble maze game in which players maneuver a small marble around barriers inside a transparent sphere. Unlike traditional flat-surface mazes that are composed of one path, Perplexus has numerous paths to choose from and dozens of barriers to overcome. Players can race one another or the clock. Perplexus exercises problem-solving, motor, and dexterity skills, and improves hand-eye coordination. Perplexus Twist is designed for ages 6 and up. With a top speed of six mph, PlaSmart’s PlasmaCar is known for its speed and performance. PlasmaCar is propelled by the natural forces of inertia, centrifugal force, gravity, and friction, and requires no batteries. This year, PlaSmart launches the PlasmaCar Pro. The PlasmaCar Pro comes equipped with an additional set of new, patented polyurethane wheels that will enhance the PlasmaCar’s performance for a smoother ride. The new polyurethane wheel sets are available separately as an accessories kit, or fully equipped on the new PlasmaCar Pro line. Also launching this year is a new line of PlasmaCar Pro car decals, so riders can decorate their PlasmaCar to fit their personality. Styles range from flames to flowers. PlasmaCar Pro is recommended for ages 3 and up.

PlasmaCar Pro

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Dragon-i Toys Introduces Talking Friends Plush

ragon-i Toys, makers of the Chatimals animated toy line, has recently acquired the global license for Talking Friends app-associated toys. Dragon-i will launch Talking Tom and Talking Ben globally in late April. Talking Tom and Talking Ben have talk-back functionality in the same recognizable voices of the well-known characters. Additionally, there are sensors spread over the body of each toy to allow for playback of the identical sounds that appear in the free apps. Dragon-i will also feature a range of 12-inch and 10-inch Talking Tom and Talking Ben beanies in basic plush and press-and-talk functionality versions. The first wave of the Dragon-i Toys Talking Friends line rounds out with an entry-level price point key ring of Talking Tom and Talking Ben, with and without the sounds from the app. Talking Tom and Talking Ben apps can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or through the Android Marketplace

Uncle Milton Explores the Outdoors

ncle Milton Industries explores new licensed toy territory this year with the introduction of new lines from evergreen brands. The National Geographic Outdoor Explorer Series will add new products in the fall, including an authentic Explorer’s Torch with a realistic flickering flame. Fall also marks the launch of the Nat Geo Wild line of animal-based toys, with an Anteater Bug Vac and a Laughing Hyena Cub leading the pack. The John Deere brand’s classic tractor and more inspires a new line of farm-themed toys, insect habitats, and the Rooty’s Root Farm grow environment. Expanding on its Fireworks Light Show In My Room, the company is adding five additional items to create a new Fireworks line, including the Roman Candle Fireball Blaster and the colorchanging Light Frenzy Sparkler. Become a powerful Sith as you construct your own Darth Maul-edition, double-bladed Lightsaber Room Light. Mount the double-bladed lightsaber to your wall and rotate it for a horizontal or vertical display. When you’re ready, activate its red glowing blades. It makes authentic Lightsaber sound effects, and is more than 50 inches long. Anteater Bug Vac

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Jazwares Brings Gaming to Gifts

his year, Jazwares brings the adventures of Fruit Ninja to life with a toy and electronics line based on the game. The initial line includes Fruit Ninja-themed headphones, ear buds, and a portable speaker set. A plush line will include a Mini Plush Assortment with Sound, a five-inch Plush Assortment with Sound, and a 10-inch Plush Watermelon with Blade, which includes sound and a slicing feature.

Neat-Oh! Launches New Branding and Development Strategy

nown for its flagship ZipBin brand, Neat-Oh! is announcing a new branding and product development strategy with the launch of the new Neat-Oh! ZipBin Dinosaur line, Neat-Oh! ZipBin Full Throttle line, and Neat-Oh! ZipBin Farmland line. Neat-Oh! is giving consumers the ability to decorate a room with the themed line of Dinosaurs, Full Throttle, and Farmland storage cases, totes, toy boxes, play mats, tins, and more. New products from the Neat-Oh! ZipBin Dinosaur line include Dinosaur Explorer Day Tote Playset, Dinosaur Fold Up Playmat, and Dinosaur Collector Tin Playset. New products from the Neat-Oh! ZipBin Farmland Line include Farmland Bring Along Backpack, Farmland Fold Up Playmat, and Farmland Collector Tin Playset. New from the Neat-Oh! ZipBin Full Throttle line is the Space Bring Along Backpack. Neat-Oh introduces the ZipBin Princess Enchanted Pony Day Tote Playset. Easy to carry and decorated with animals, the Pony Day Tote unzips into a stable ready for play. Weighing less than one pound, it’s the perfect size for toys, note pads, pens and pencils, and even lunches. It wipes clean with a damp cloth, and unzips flat to make cleaning easy. Lego Star Wars Minifigures have found a home with the Lego Star Wars ZipBin Small Millennium Falcon Minifigure Case and the Lego Star Wars ZipBin Large Millennium Falcon Messenger Bag, both shaped like the iconic spacecraft. Each item features detailed artwork and a play mat on the inside and outside of the case and the bag. The masters of Spinjitzu have leveled up. The new Lego Ninjago Neat-Oh! Battle Arena features new artwork this year. This battle arena doubles as both a storage case for the Ninjago masters to hide in, as well as a supreme battle arena. There are pull-out storage areas to protect Ninjago figures, spinners, weapons, and cards. The battle arena has an easy-to-clean, wipeable surface. Lego bricks are not included. Fashionistas can create their own fashion week with the Barbie Neat-Oh! Fashion Show, ZipBin Princess Enchanted Dressing Room & Runway Case. The Barbie ZipBin Blizzard Bag has a soft, white faux fur Pony Day Tote Playset exterior with a durable interior and pink satin shoulder strap. The Barbie ZipBin Winter Bag features a Barbie pink and white faux fur exterior. Both items unzip to reveal a scenic ski slope play area. Neat-Oh! is also introducing a line of lunch boxes and backpacks. The Go Sport Basketball Backpack features a dropdown hoop, net ball return, and three-inch basketball for basketball play.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Spotlight on: American Plastic Toys The Toy Book Chats with John Gessert, President

merican Plastic Toys, Inc. is a privately held domestic toy manufacturer of injection-molded plastic toys. The company was founded in 1962 by A. B. Littleton and Glen Yoquelet, with the original company name Gay Toys, Inc., a combination of the founders’ initials. The company changed the name to American Plastic Toys in 1986. APT has operated continuously for 50 years in various locations in Michigan and Mississippi. The original corporate headquarters was located in Birmingham, Michigan, and then moved to its current location in Walled Lake, Michigan in the early ’70s. APT currently has more than one million square feet company wide, and approximately 300 employees, with shipping points in Walled Lake, Michigan and Olive Branch, Mississippi. The company has a comprehensive line of injectionmolded toys. The current product line features approximately 125 items, excluding customer-specific special items. APT started by producing small plastic vehicles that retailed for $0.19, $0.29, and $0.39. The company now manufactures products in most major toy categories, including spring toys, bulk vehicles, riding toys, girls’ toys, doll accessories, sports toys, role-play, and furniture toys. APT distributes products throughout North America and beyond, including Puerto Rico and South and Central America, and has products listed at most mass merchants, on many websites, and in nationally distributed catalogs. What are the benefits of manufacturing your products in the U.S.? While there are many, four benefits stand out. The first is confidence. It is easy to have a high confidence level that our products are safe and high quality since assembly is done in our U.S. plants. The vast majority of components are either molded in-house or purchased domestically. All

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of our raw materials, plastic, packaging colorant, etc. is purchased and produced domestically. The second is control. Domestic production provides APT the ability to closely monitor all aspects of molding, production, testing, and shipping of our products. The third is service. This is clearly important based on consumers’ thank you letters we’ve received regarding how we handle questions and concerns with live people here in the U.S. Domestic production also affords retailers the ability to tailor their replenishment according to changes in demand, weather, or product popularity. Importing seasonal products is inherently riskier since retailers order containers rather than full or partial truckload shipments. A buyer once said, “Is it worth a few cents on a pail and shovel if you have to import it?” Finally, it has been APT’s opinion that producing toys domestically is the right way to conduct business. APT employees and customers all benefit from the company staying in the U.S. Everyone at APT can sleep well at night since they know that they are involved in something special— making affordable, quality, safe toys in the U.S. What are your plans for American Plastic Toys’ 50th anniversary? The 50th anniversary will be a key aspect of our increased marketing effort in 2012. The entire APT team takes great pride in and understands how special it is to manufacture affordable toys in the U.S. for 50 years! What is the company’s focus heading into 2012? New product introductions for 2012 include two new additions to our successful My Very Own line, a new unique approach to the classic doll stroller and shopping cart. In response to customers asking for lower retail prices, APT is offering a line of preschool toys that will retail for $5. Finally, we are extending our ride-on toy offerings with the introduction of a $10 ride-on Fire Truck. ■

FEBRUARY 2012

Impulse Toys from Play Visions

ew from Play Visions, TongZo BattleChipz are spring-loaded chips that pop into the air with flipping and spinning action. The BattleChipz come in Zombie vs. Ninja and Colorburst styles. Tung Too Text Toos are candy-flavored, temporary tongue tattoos that display the latest in texting abbreviation lingo. Also new for Play Visions is the Pac Man Sounds Keychain, which plays the sounds from the original arcade game.

Zydeco Studios Introduces Floppets

loppets are the homegrown brainstorm of Ilyse Brainin, a reading teacher and mom from Chicago. Brainin’s vision was to create story-driven transmedia toys and novelties. Her first effort, Floppets, are collectible and wearable pets for ages 4 and up that go “wear” you go. The customizable character collection attaches to everything from fingers to flip-flops. The Floppets have a versatile connector and hook-andloop fastening tether. Kids can attach them wherever they please, or link them together by connecting their tethers to create instant wrist bands, rings, anklets, and necklaces. Each character has a story within the world of Floptopia, which is based on kids’ intrinsic interests and built around the Floppets characters. Kids can collect, share, and trade them with their friends.

FEBRUARY 2012

Kent and Pinkalicious Team Up

ans of the Pinkalicious book series can now ride with Pinkalicious herself. Kent Pinkalicious bicycles in 12-, 14-, and 16-inch sizes feature a handlebar bag, doll seat, pink streamers, adjustable training wheels and seat, and rear-foot brakes. Another Pinkalicious bike is adorned with pink peonies and butterflies, as well as all the aforementioned features. To keep fledgling riders safe, a new Kent Pinkalicious helmet also hits the market this spring. The helmet has jewel accents and 17 top and side vents to help keep the head cool while riding. The headpiece is adjustable and secures with nylon web strapping and a quick-release buckle. The helmet is designed to fit children ages 5 to 8.

THE TOY BOOK • 71

QUESTIONS WITH

Michael Albert, partner

1. What led to the decision to re-brand The Canadian Group as TCG? As our business opportunities extended beyond the Canadian toy market, we felt it was necessary to communicate to the trade and licensing communities that TCG was a global company. We feel the name “TCG” represents a nod to the past with a focus on the future as we expand globally.

Please share some of the history behind The Canadian Toy Group. Jerry Smith, George Fegan, and I established the company in 1998 to offer full-service distribution to toy companies in the Canadian market. We came from a variety of backgrounds and brought more than 80 years of toy expertise to the market. We entered the U.S. market with our Surelox puzzle line, and made inroads with our Justin Bieber products at many leading retailers. The Canadian Group was instrumental in launching successful products such as 20Q and Hush Little Baby. We are expanding our distribution throughout the U.S. and international markets with exciting new products and licenses in a broad range of retail outlets.

How important is licensing to TCG’s overall growth strategy? Licensing is vital to TCG’s overall strategy. It has allowed us to introduce innovative new products with strong branding as a point of differentiation. Our recent partnership with Fisher-Price has opened up avenues for us in the preschool puzzle market. Justin Bieber allowed us to tap into the preteen market with games and room accessories. Our lineup of other licenses, including Spider-Man, Marvel’s The Avengers, Lalaloopsy, Bratz, Cody Simpson, DreamWorks, Build-A-Bear Workshop, NHL, Pocoyo, and more, represent great opportunities in our puzzles and game categories. Licensing will remain a key element of our growth strategy as

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we expand our products and distribution into new markets.

4. Puzzles and games have historically made up the greatest percentage of your business. Do you plan to expand beyond these product categories? We are preparing to launch Roxx, our hot new collectible product, globally. We’ve partnered with Imperial Toy, which will act as our distributor in the U.S. market, and several other companies around the globe to launch this range. In addition to Roxx we have an array of kids’ and adult action games, puzzles, yo-yos, and room décor.

Please explain TCG’s relationship with Imperial Toy. Does TCG plan to enter into similar joint venture relationships in the future? When it came to bringing Roxx to the U.S., initially we had every intention of doing so ourselves. Upon close examination of all the elements necessary to make the biggest impact in the U.S., we had to make a very difficult decision. Imperial has enjoyed meteoric success with multiple toy crazes over the past five years, and is an ideal partner to launch Roxx for the U.S. market. Imperial has committed to a very significant promotional program to support the brand in all forms of media. This will be Imperial’s largest financial commitment ever in supporting a brand. By the time this article is published, I am certain that we will have announced our plans for all territories outside of North America. We are in discussions with various leading toy companies around the world. Whether it will be a distribution agreement, a license arrangement, or something inbetween, our final determination will have been based upon the financial support from our international partners, so that Roxx is the key focus for any company that we are fortunate enough to enter into an arrangement with. ■

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Pacific Play Tents Has Tee Pees

oung imaginations can run wild with new Pacific Play Tents, available in Cowboy Tee Pee or Authentic Tee Pee styles. Nearly five feet tall by almost four feet square, each Tee Pee is large enough for an entire tribe. Made of durable 100percent cotton canvas and wooden poles, the Tee Pees are easy to set up and can be used indoors. The bright walls feature interesting designs, and the tents have an easy-access opening, as well as a mesh window for ventilation purposes. The Tee Pees assemble easily and are extra durable. Each Tee Pee comes in its own carry bag for easy storage. Cowboy Tee Pee

Sakar Nerfs It Up

akar’s line of Nerf-themed products expands this year to include new youth electronics products. The Nerf DVR is a palm-sized digital video recorder, which features a 1.8-inch LCD preview screen, 640 x 480 resolution, and one-touch wireless uploading capabilities to YouTube and other web outlets. It also comes with a built-in microphone and light, an SD card slot for video and still image capture, a USB connector, and a TV cable. The Nerf Helmet Cam, whether mounted on a helmet or the bike itself, lets kids record and display their street exploits, hands free, at a 1280 x 1024 resolution. Like the Nerf DVR, the Nerf Helmet Cam includes downloadable Vivitar Experience software for organizing, editing, and sharing video clips. It comes with two helmet mounts and one bike mount. An additional line of electronics based on the Nickelodeon series Victorious will include a digital camera, SMS text messengers, a pocket digital video recorder, a microphone, a clock radio, MP3 and CD players, a portable karaoke system, and computer accessories. Sakar will bring the Hello Kitty brand into the kitchen with a new line of appliances. The products range from a hand mixer and tea kettle to a slow cooker, pancake maker, rice cooker, ice cream maker, popcorn popper, cotton candy maker, and cordless hand vacuum. All products feature Kitty’s signature pink color scheme.

Nerf DVR

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FEBRUARY 2012

New YBike Runs on Pedal Power

Bike USA introduces the Explorer Go Kart, designed for ages 5 and up. The three-wheeled bike comes in orange and white, and runs completely on pedal power. The YBike features two easy-to-grip handles that make the ride secure, and the unique back wheel steering allows for control on the pavement.

Get Out There and Just Play

ust Play is bringing the specialty plush line YooHoo & Friends to mass market this year with new plush and the first YooHoo & Friends small dolls. Featuring big round eyes and long fluffy tails, YooHoo & Friends characters are based on rare and endangered animals from around the world. The new YooHoo & Friends plush and doll line will highlight several YooHoo characters in a new look, as well as lots of other characters for kids to collect. Coming to Disney Junior this year, Doc McStuffins is a new animated series about a 6-year-old girl who communicates with and heals stuffed animals and toys out of her backyard clinic. Just Play will release a full line of plush, feature plush, small and large dolls, play sets, and dress-up and roleplay items inspired by the show. The toy line will feature Doc and her pals, and will embody the core message of the series: the importance of taking care of yourself and others. Inspired by the Disney Junior animated series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Just Play will launch a line of plush and role-play toys for the property. A line of Minnieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bow-Tique toys will focus on Minnie. Minnieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pink-and-white polka dot signature pattern, along with the overall bow theme, will be featured prominently throughout the line. Just Play will bring a line of Barbielicensed role-play toys and dress-up items to retail this fall. Items include dresses with ruffles and bows, styling sets, tea sets, and vanities. Doc McStuffins

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Rock on with Rockboard

ockboard offers the brand-new Descender this year. Featuring high-performance treads, this cross-over board enables riders to “surf” down grass and all-terrain hills. With its four treads positioned around triple sets of wheels for traction and power, the Descender extends snowboarding and surfing into every season. The Descender can hold riders up to 200 lbs., and is recommended for ages 8 and up. The RBX is the newest scooter from Rockboard, featuring Rockboard Propulsion Technology, in a new, more affordable, non-folding model. Just like the Original and Mini Rockboard scooters, the RBX’s steel power-drive chain propels you forward with every up-and-down motion. The faster kids rock, the faster it goes. The RBX stands at an adjustable handlebar height of 48 inches, and is available in a black finish. The RBX can hold riders up to 220 lbs., and is designed for ages 8 and up.

RBX

Sun-Mate Corporation Licenses Big Brands for U.S. Marketplace

un-Mate Corporation, a global consumer products manufacturer, has licensed manufacturing rights to a broad spectrum of entertainment brands for the U.S. market. Among its licensed products, Sun-Mate will develop ATM machines, arcade-style games, tabletop games, and guitars based on the Star Wars brand. Spider-Man and other Marvel Heroes, including Wolverine, Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor, will be featured among the keyboards, drums, ATM machines, and other outdoor activities being developed. Sun-Mate will develop various pinball game machines under the Power Rangers brand as well. Sun-Mate will manufacture a variety of outdoor and backyard games for the entire family under the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) brand. Consumers will be able to purchase WWE blasters, pool and beach toys, water guns, and vinyl balls. Sun-Mate will also develop electronic productions under the joint Hello Kitty KISS brand. These products include cameras, MP3 players, cell phone cases, iPhone cases, laptop computer cases, microphones, headsets, headphones, SMS text messengers, PDAs, musical instruments, electronic watches, boom boxes, speakers, walkie-talkies, amps, ATM machines, karaoke machines, and doll houses. Through its licensing agreement with Union Pacific, Sun-Mate will continue to manufacture opening-priced toy train sets. Sun-Mate has acquired North American licensing rights for Chevron, Texaco, and Gulf, part of the Chevron Products Company family of brands, and will continue to manufacture toy oil tanker trucks.

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Calego Plays in the Dollhouse

alego International’s 3D Imagination Dollhouse requires no tools to assemble, and instead uses a ColorMatch system. The dollhouse is child-safe and parent-friendly, folding flat for quick and convenient storage. The dollhouse is available in traditional and modern décors.

The Wish Factory Has Cody Simpson Dolls

he Wish Factory has created a new line of Cody Simpson 11.5-inch dolls and accessories, figures, and plush koalas. The Cody Simpson Fashion Doll Collection features bendable joints and each includes a pair of shoes, sunglasses, a microphone, a guitar pick, and a lanyard. The dolls have Cody’s signature side-swept surfer ’do. With the push of a button, the Cody Simpson Singing Doll Collection sings the song “On My Mind.” The doll comes complete with Cody-style clothing and also includes shoes, stickers, a microphone, a guitar pick, and a lanyard. Pop Grrl is a brand new line of fashion accessories for tween girls. The first line in the Pop Grrl collection from The Wish Factory is Nail Charms, which are 3-D stick-on nails. Nail Charms combine the collectibility of charms with the personal expressive nature of safe and easy stick-on fashion nails. Nail Charm designs include the Sweet Tooth Collection, Animal Instincts Collection, and Bow So Cute Collection. Licensed Nail Charms include Blow Pop, in strawberry, grape, watermelon, and apple scents, as well as chocolate Tootsie Roll and Gummy Bears varieties. Squinkies and Monster High Nail Charms will be available as well. The Pop Grrl collection also introduces the i-Poppin’ products line, featuring a variety of fashion accessories that double as earphones. i-Poppin’ Clip-On has retractable earphones and a power plug. It attaches to any bag, backpack, purse, key chain, or clothing with a belt loop and comes in four designs: lollipop, cherry, star, and diamond. i-Poppin’ Bracelet is a multi-use plug-in suitable for computers, mobile phones, and other audio devices. It has retractable earphones and a power plug, and comes in strawberry, zipper, heart, and bow varieties. Each pop out toy design is detachable from the clip-on bracelet. i-Poppin’ Necklace is a fashion necklace with retractable earphones and a power plug, and the necklaces are available in bear, panda, robot, and skull designs. The i-Poppin’ i-Share music sharing device has three outlets for earphones, allowing girls to share music with their friends. It has a retractable power plug and is hands-free, attaching to any mobile phone, computer, or audio device. Designs include bear, bunny, popsicle, and boombox. Cody Simpson Fashion Doll

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Yoha Technology’s Terrific Tandars

oha Technology first launched the Tandars in September. The company will launch at Toys “R” Us in Canada this spring, and roll out to all Canadian mass accounts this fall. The company will also introduce the “Aji Baz” Story Telling Tree with three additional storybooks and cartridges this fall. Yoha is continuing to build the product line and brand with the addition of the Charging Fruit, Baby Tandars, and clothing.

Innovation First Launches Bobble Bots

nnovation First International is expanding at retail in the U.S., the UK, and Canada, Moshi House with the debut of Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters. These bobble-head mini robotic play set pets and customizable play sets leverage the company’s patented Hexbug Nano vibration technology. The company’s new licensing partnership with Mind Candy will see Monstro City brought to life in the physical world with collectible Moshlings that buzz around and explore their customizable environment. The initial assortment of Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters products will include 24 battery-powered collectible Moshlings and a variety of configurable 3-D “dollhouse” replicas of the streets, yards, buildings, and houses found online in Monstro City. Every Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters product will include secret codes to unlock digital assets in the online world. The Bobble Bots Moshi Store Assortment includes the Bobble Bots Moshi Ice Scream Store, Moshi Gross-ery, Moshi Bizarre Bazaar Store, and Moshi Yukea Store. Innovation First continues to innovate and create new Hexbug Micro Robotic Creatures with both the Nano line and its mechanical line of products. New for this year is the Hexbug Scarab. Scarab is a high-speed, mechanical, beetle-like robotic bug. Scarab skitters around on six angled legs, propelling itself forward and backward, bouncing off objects in its path, and jumping from its back to its feet if placed upside down. Its inner body is full of robotic intelligence and is protected by a hard, transparent exoskeleton casing. Scarab is CPSIA-approved for kids age 8 and up. The Hexbug Nano Zipline Starter Set unlocks new possibilities and nearly endless heights for the Nano to explore. Once the set is built, each daredevil Nano bug can bravely scurry up the curvy spiral ramp where it will connect to the zip line with the help of its custom-fit “backpack,” and soar down to the lower-level cul-de-sac where it preps to do it all over again. This set makes a great connecting piece that can bridge the gap between other existing habitat sets, enabling children to customize and create the ultimate playground for their Hexbug Nano to traverse. The Hexbug Nano Zipline Starter Set includes 23 easy-connect pieces and one extremely rare Nano mutation with a removable zip line backpack. It is CPSIAapproved for kids ages 3 and up.

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FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Briarpatch Is Totally Tubular

riarpatch expands its collectibles line with Marvel Avengers Wonder Tubes. Tilt and tip the Marvel Avengers Wonder Tubes to find all of the Avengers floating inside. Collect all six colors. Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, and Captain America are ready to head out on special missions. The Avengers Sculpted 3D Collectibles clip on backpacks, belt loops, and other strategic locations.

Rubber Duck Floats Back to America with CelebriDucks

elebriDucks brings the rubber duck industry back to the U.S., where the original soft floating rubber duckie was invented. The company unveils its first Hatched in the USA ducks at Toy Fair. CelebriDucks is best known for its line of celebrity ducks, including The Wizard of Oz, Elvis Presley, Alice in Wonderland, and KISS, among hundreds of others. CelebriDucks has produced ducks for the NBA, Major League Baseball, the National Hockey League, Collegiate Mascots, and NASCAR.

The Bridge Direct Has More Bieber

fter singing along with the Justin Bieber Singing Dolls, fans now have the chance to have a chat with the pop idol. The Justin Bieber Talking Doll speaks 10 different phrases in his own world-famous voice. Blingoos, an update on The Bridge Direct’s Inkoos activity plush, come with glitter glue, gems, and washable markers so kids can create sparkly works of art, wash it in the washing machine, and do it all over again. Blingoos are available in four styles, all with shiny embroidery and lots of white space for maximum doodling. With new phrases and facial expressions, the fall collection of Annoying Orange Talking Fresh Squeezed Plush debuts. The web series comes to life with these talking 3.5-inch plush Kitchen Crew characters, including Orange, Pear, Midget Apple, and Marshmallow. The Bridge also announces a toy line inspired by the upcoming films The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and The Hobbit: There and Back Again. The line will feature basic action figures, adventure packs, beast packs, and detailed collector’s figures. Role-play items include a Basic Sting Sword, a Basic Orcrist Sword, a Dwarven Battle Axe, and a Deluxe Sting Sword that features a blue glow just like in the films.

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Justin Bieber Talking Doll

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New New Look for Toobee’s Amazing Flying Can

oobee introduces new packaging for its Amazing Flying Can. The transparent tubelike container has been expanded to hold up to three Toobees, and doubles as a carrying case. To play with Toobee, grip it and throw it; it spins like a football. It has no sharp edges, and is safe for indoor play. Toobee is made in the U.S., can be recycled, and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Geospace Gets Kids Jumping Disguise Yourself

et ready for Jake and the Neverland Pirates this Halloween as Disguise introduces a Jake Deluxe Costume, along with appropriate swashbuckling accessories. Kids can transform into Jake with the included jumpsuit, bandana, and boot covers. It’s a busy year for superheroes, and Disguise’s line of costumes inspired by Marvel’s The Jake Deluxe Avengers includes the Thor Classic Muscle Costume, the Iron Man Mark VII Classic Muscle Costume, the Hulk Classic Muscle Costume, and the Captain America Classic Muscle Costume. The Spider-Man Movie Classic Muscle Costume is an updated look for web-slinging wannabes, based on the May relaunch of the film series. Disguise is set to complement two Disney re-releases with new costume sets. The 3-D plush Finding Nemo Deluxe pullover is inspired by the September release of Finding Nemo 3D. For the Cinderella Diamond Edition DVD, Disguise releases the Cinderella Light-Up Deluxe costume.

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eospace has a pogo for smaller tykes and beginners. The Jumparoo Boing! Jr. is shorter, making it more convenient for smaller kids from 40-80 lbs. (ages 4 and up). The pogo stick’s metal spring is completely encased within a steel housing for safety. It includes foam grips on a T-handle and a rubber-like, non-slip foot. Also new is the Geospace Jack Hammer Pogo Jumper. The new Fly Max Football can fly up to 100 yards, and creates a whistling sound as it soars through the air. It uses patented RPM turbine technology, consisting of a super-aerodynamic shape, a hollow interior for less wind resistance, and adjustable fins. Geospace’s biggest Jump Rocket, the Jump Rocket Jumbo Set, soars up to 150 feet or more. The set, for kids ages 6 and up, includes two foam rockets, each with patented Thrust Boosters for longer flight. Also new is Jump Rocket Triple Shotz, which launches one, two, or all three foam rockets at the same time, flying up to 300 feet. Jumparoo Boing! Jr.

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Moose on the Move

oose Toys, the Australian toy company behind Mighty Beanz, will debut the second series of The Trash Pack, the garbage-inspired line of collectibles. More than 150 new Trashies (including limited-edition Trashies and a new Trashie family) will be brought to market. This year, Moose will also introduce new play sets in The Trash Pack line, which will offer children a new way to collect and play with their Trashies.

Waboba’s Flying Object

aboba’s newest addition, the Tosy AFO (Alien Flying Object) is a spinning propeller-like flyer that is launched from a handheld base. It can be used for a game of flying catch or as a boomerang for solo play. It can also be used indoors. The deluxe version features LEDs that ignite automatically when launched. Waboba also has a new version of the original Waboba Water Bouncing Balls, Surf. Targeted to kids ages 8 and up, Surf has three different levels. The Extreme and Pro balls are for open water, and the Blast is for swimming pools. Tosy AFO

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Playmobil Enters the Stone Age

ids will defend against ancient enemies with the Stone Age Cave with Mammoth dwelling, from Playmobil. The cave is filled with paintings, raised lookouts, and a rotating waterfall, as well as a giant woolly mammoth. The set includes four figures, foldable trees, a Stone Age Cave with Mammoth wolf, and other accessories. The product is recommended for kids ages 4-10. Fly into the future with the Future Planet E-Rangers’ Headquarters. Equipped with a swiveling LED spotlight to help illuminate the surrounding terrain, a knockout cannon to disable enemy vehicles, and a functional solar fan module, this galactic headquarters is filled with top-notch technology. The included balance racer can be converted into a propeller or jet car racer. The opponents, the Dark Rangers, also have their own stomping grounds where they plan their invasion of the E-Rangers’ territory. Little girls (ages 4-10) can create their own dazzling and regal fantasy world with the Princess Fantasy Castle. With turrets, a gilded entrance gate, a grand staircase, and lots of rooms, this castle is a great home for her royal highness. The set includes two figures, many accessories, and a life-size tiara, bracelet, and ring.

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New VTech Electronics Transforms Playtime with Switch & Go Dinos

Tech Electronics brings dinosaurs and vehicles together to create a two-in-one play experience. Switch & Go Dinos transform from dinosaurs into vehicles in as little as four steps. Each of the Switch & Go Dinos comes equipped with a customizable LCD screen, allowing kids ages 3-8 to choose dinosaur eyes (when in dino form) and their driver (when in vehicle form). Dino and vehicle sound effects are included, as well as educational facts about each dinosaur. There are seven dino/vehicle combo toys including Sliver the T-Rex, T-Don the Pteranodon, Tonn the Stegosaurus, Horns the Triceratops, Attila the Ankylosaurus, Span the Spinosaurus, and Brok the Brachiosaurus.

Luca Introduces the FunPod

ritish invention FunPod will make its debut in the States with its new exclusive U.S. distributor, Luca & Company. The FunPod was developed by a UK mom aiming to get her daughter up to kitchen worktops safely and involved in food preparation. The product is available in five contemporary colors to match kitchen interiors, and is height adjustable, allowing kids as young as 1 to safely reach counter levels. It can be used for kids up to age 6.

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Kidz World Furnishes Pinkaliciously

ew from Kidz World is the Pinkalicious Sleep/Sofa. The sofa is constructed using a mixed hardwood frame that is padded with foam for greater comfort and durability. The backrest can be unfolded, which transforms Pinkalicious Skirted Rocker the piece into a 48-inch surface to use as a sleeper for guests. The Pinkalicious Skirted Bench can be used at the end of a bed, as a seat in front of a vanity table, or just as additional seating. There are four plastic knobs attached to the bottom of the legs to avoid “wear and tear” of the upholstery fabric that covers the frame. The Pinkalicious Skirted Rocker includes a matching skirted ottoman.

FEBRUARY 2012

Daydream Toy Keeps Spinning

aydream Toy announces distribution of Tosy Toop Lightning Tops to the U.S. market. The motorized Lightning Top combines spinning action with LED lights. Spin the tops on top of one another to make a top tower. Spin one on your hand, or spin them on any hard surface. The tops are offered in a variety of colors and designs. The Tosy Toop was recently certified by The Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest-running mechanical spinning top with a non-stop spinning time of 24 hours, 35 minutes, and 15 seconds. The Battling Lightning Top Set lets players battle Lightning Tops. The battling set includes a battle arena, two Lightning Tops, and two stick controllers. Other Daydream Toy products include the Doodle-Track Car, SquashBlox Block ’n Roll, and AFO Flash Flyer.

Lightning Top

Movies and More from Jakks Pacific

ollowing last year’s The Smurfs film release, Jakks Pacific has expanded its themed toy line to include the Movie Grab Ems Figure Pack, which features more characters and different poses and outfits. Kids can relive their favorite movie scenes with the Smurf Movie Moments Adventure Gift Pack, each including one 2.75-inch Smurf figure and accessories. Returning this year are Agents J and K in the third installment of Men In Black. Jakks will introduce MIB3 Four-Inch Figures with Small Accessory. Agent J comes with a neuralizer that transforms into a hover cannon, while Agent K rides in on a Noisy Cricket, which transforms into a Cosmic Hopper. For fans of the film’s canine character, the Frank the Pug Six-Inch Talking Plush comes complete with his signature suit, tie, and spoken phrases straight from the movie. Moving on to electronics, the Action Shot Camera will be released for those who want to capture themselves playing on the edge. The portable mini camera can be attached to skateboards, bikes, or helmets with a secure mounting system to record up to 20 minutes of footage. Kids can use the USB port on the Action Shot Camera, or the alternate HD Action Shot Camera version, to upload their videos for all to see. Building on Jakks’ Winx doll line, CDI, a division of Jakks Pacific, will bring Winx Club into the musical instrument department with the release of the Winx Club Rock Star Guitar, which features built-in Winx Club songs, light-up strings and neck, and bass and drum buttons to create a full-band sound. A guitar pick necklace is also included. The Winx Club Dance Mat allows young girls to dance to the beat of three of the group’s songs. Icons light up the console to show dancers exactly where to step. The Winx Club Rock Star Microphone can play the built-in Winx Club song, or users can plug in their MP3 players to sing along with any tune of their choosing.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 89

What’s New Style Your Locker with LockerLookz

ockerLookz debuts two new lines, the Couture Collection and the Bold & Beautiful Collection, designed to help tween girls decorate their school locker with style. Each collection offers wallpaper, rugs, flowers, bins, mirrors, clocks, curtains, and valances. The Couture Collection is more whimsical, concentrating on details young girls appreciate and featuring prints like houndstooth, fleur-de-lis, damask, and scroll. The Bold & Beautiful Collection adds more punch, including lime green and purple colors, zebra prints, and polka dots.

Smart Play Announces New Lines

mart Play, LLC introduces 3-D flash cards. Realistic 3-D images help children learn animal or fruit and vegetable names in three languages: English, French, and Spanish. Each set includes 20 durable cards with card rings to keep stacks organized. Available in three styles, the cards are recommended for ages 3 and up. With Magic Flash Cards and 3D Magic Magnets, kids tilt and see images flip to learn the alphabet, numbers, opposites, or animals. Special lenticular printing makes these cards interactive for children ages 3 and up.

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Zag’s Got Grab Bags

ag Toys introduces Grab Zags, a collectible toy line with a surprise toy in every bag. The company’s new line of licensed toys feature characters from Marvel classics, Ultimate Spider-Man, and Marvel’s The Avengers. Each Grab Zag has one toy, blind-packaged, inside each foil bag. Every assortment has collectible Marvel Minis—1.75-inch figures of classic and movie characters including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, and Hulk. There are also mini-projectors, disc launchers, and other novelty toys. Each assortment has up to 24 toys with more than 100 toys in the entire Grab Zags line. In addition to the Marvel Grab Zags series, Trick or Treat Grab Zags, featuring a collection of goblins and ghouls, will be launched in time for the Halloween shopping season.

FEBRUARY 2012

What’s New Rise and Shine with Zazoo Photo Clock

azoo Kids introduces a sleep solution for children who wake up too early or don’t stay in bed all night. The Zazoo Photo Clock teaches children the concept of “sleep” and “awake.” When a child sees the sun, they know it is time to wake up. When they see the moon, they know to stay in bed until the alarm picture changes. There is even a nap-time setting. Parents can use the pre-programmed image to set an alarm time, or can personalize the awake and asleep photo alarm images using the included USB, flash drive, or SD card slot. The Photo Clock features a rotating photo frame, music, an audio book, an alarm clock, and video. It also includes an 11-song compilation of music built right into the memory. Listen to your own music, or play and dance to these built-in tunes.

Mix It Up with WowWee

ut a new spin on your music with the Paper Jamz Pro DJ Mixing Station. Download the free app to mix it up with songs from your own library, or connect another Paper Jamz instrument—drums, guitar, or microphone—to start a band with a friend. The Pro DJ Mixing Station features interactive turntables, a mixer, and a beat pad to create your own DJ sound. It also includes a built-in microphone to record vocal loops, and offers beat synchronization between two tracks. You can also scratch, rewind, fast forward, speed up, or slow down your beats, as well as crossfade and add various sound effects. Paper Jamz Pro DJ Mixing Station WowWee introduces Talking Sprites to its Lite Sprites collection. Talking Sprites can express themselves with both colorful light and “Spritely” sounds. Lite Sprites talk in their own language. Bleak is a rebel who likes to stir up mischief and steal color. Brooke is an adventurous Sprite who colors the waters. Meadow loves all plants and flowers, and is a prankster. Astra is a dreamer who adds sparkles to the stars and glow to the moon. Lite Pets are forest friends that add a little more color and sparkle to Lite-Topia. Styles include butterfly, firefly, frog, bumblebee, snail, turtle, and caterpillar. Flower Buggy is a new play set. Lite Sprites hop in the Flower Buggy to travel around Lite-Topia, and paint the town red, blue, or any other color. Another new play set is the Gazebo and the Fountain of Lite. Girls can be just as fashionable as their Lite Sprites with wearable interactive necklaces and rings. A Lite Sprite game will also be introduced, designed to take girls on a journey through Lite-Topia to help Lite Sprites color the world.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Mix, Match, and More with Mungi Bands

ungi Bands are silicone bands that connect magnetically to allow interchangeability. Any half-band connects with other half-bands to create a whole band. Children can design, collect, and trade necklaces, anklets, and other jewelry. Each package of Mungi Bands comes with three half-bands of differing shapes, colors, and styles. The bands are offered in small and large sizes and come in a variety of themes.

Razor Gives Girls the Royale Treatment

ony Royale is a new fashion line from Razor USA, LLC. The Pony Royale collection includes 12 Princess Ponies, one for each month of the year. Each pony has a jeweled birthstone blaze and a realistic look. The mane and tail slide in and out easily. The ponies have articulated heads, and their 6.5-inch bodies stand on their own. Each pony comes with an extra mane and tail, a hair brush, and one set of Mix-It-Up Fashions, including a saddlette, saddle blanket, crown, and skirt. The Pony Royale Dressing Carousel Playset opens up to two feet wide, revealing a big closet. The play set features a display for Change-It-Up Hair and Mix-It-Up Fashions. There are three mirrors and a styling center, with storage for a hair brush and saddlette. The Dressing Carousel comes with two Princess Pony skirts, which also double as curtains. The Pony Royale Salon Style Assortment—Change-It-Up Hair includes a styled mane and tail set, decorative hair accents, and a color-coordinated brush. Four initial styles include Feather Fantasy, Gold & Glam, Girly Glitz, and Silver Dazzle, with more on the way. Add to a pony’s wardrobe with Pony Royale Designer Collection Assortment— Mix-It-Up Fashions. The Designer Collection Assortment will feature three initial themed fashions: Prance Along the Beach, Chasing Butterflies, and Party at the Palace. Each assortment will come with a saddlette, saddle blanket, crown, skirt, and decorative Pony Royale Princess Pony, Harmony hair accessories. Razor USA is improving on the classic three-wheeler of the 1970s with the FlashRider 360, which turns, drifts, and sparks. Riders engage the spark bar while riding and spinning for real sparking action and a flashy riding style. The spark bar has a replaceable spark cartridge to keep the sparks going. The FlashRider 360 has rear, dual-inclined caster wheels for 360 degrees of resistance-free drifting and spinning. It features an all-steel frame and double crown fork, with MX-style handlebars FlashRider 360 with rubber grips. Recommended for ages 5 and up, it can hold up to 160 lbs. Kids can shoot up to 100 rounds of vapor gel ammo without reloading their Vapor Delta 500 gel ammo blaster. With trigger action and long-range firing up to 80 feet, it’s a rifle-like blaster with a removable stock. It comes with 500 rounds of ready-to-go vapor gel ammo for mock battle. There is no mess to clean up after blasting, and you never have to retrieve the single-use vapor gel ammo. Refill packs are also available. The blaster is recommended for ages 14 and up.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 95

What’s New Basic Fun Charms with Moshi Monsters

asic Fun introduces new products for Moshi Monsters. Moshi Monsters accessories include key chains, zippsters, and charmlings. Zippsters are 3-D mini figures that come blindboxed and attach to a backpack or jacket with 11 in a set. Charmlings are enameled charms that come in a variety of 12 Moshling characters, and attach to a specially designed Moshi gel bracelet. Packaged in a blind foil bag, each includes two Charmling charms and a bracelet. Kids can create their own Pinkalicious scenes with tiny magnetic pieces, by opening the Pinkalicious Storybook Keychain to find a background from Pinkalicious. They can then pull out the drawer, and use the pieces to recreate some of their favorite scenes from the book. Basic Fun is introducing six new handhelds in miniature carabiner format, including Fruit Ninja, Monopoly, Scrabble Flash, and classic Atari titles Break Out, Centipede, and Yars’ Revenge. All games play like the originals. For boys, products for The Amazing Spider-Man, hitting theaters in July, will include a Battle Launcher. The Battle Launcher comes with three Spider-Man tops that load and can be stored inside the launcher. Load the tops into the launcher, squeeze the handle, and watch the tops fly away and spin. Also, collect all three styles of The Amazing Spider-Man key chains. Each three-inch mini figure comes in a different action pose. Additionally, collect all four styles of Power Rangers Samurai mini key chains in red, blue, green, and gold. Each figure features a Super Samurai action pose and measures 2.5 inches tall. Super Samurai Power Rangers harness the mystical Samurai Symbols of Power to fight evil with the elements of fire, water, forest, and earth. Kids can battle as their favorite Ranger with the Battle Launcher. The Battle Launcher comes complete with three tops, each styled for a unique Power Ranger: Red, Blue, or Green. Each launcher stores all three tops for play on the go. Once kids are ready to battle, they load the tops, squeeze the handles, and the tops fly and spin.

FyrFlyz Tryphoon

FyrFlyz Brighten 2012

new line of FyrFlyz, from i-Star Entertainment, includes new shapes and designs to the lightup spinning toys. The FyrFlyz Tryphoon features two sides that contain a static LED light, but adds a blinking third side to the action, giving kids the opportunity to create different shapes and light shows. For younger children, the new FyrFlyz Vortex features three soft vinyl edges and handles designed for smaller hands. Nine new colors for the line include Fyrblaze (red), Nytryder (transparent), Goldstar (gold), Stryker (orange), Icefyr (silver), Nytstorm (aqua green), Fyrstar (lime green), Super Nova (ash blue), and Skybryte (sky blue). Also new this year are the Sunflare, Heatwave, and Flying Dragon, which make up the FyrFlyz Radical Series. Each item spins and cycles through a series of six LED-lighted designs.

Moshi Monster Poppet key chain

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FEBRUARY 2012

Appcessories ITC Is the Ultimate Spy

nteractive Toy Concepts brings video surveillance vehicles to the toy aisle this year with the Wi-Spi Series. The Wi-Spi Helicopter is an app-driven R/C helicopter with a builtin video camera that offers a live feed directly to your device. Spy from the sky and upload your videos within seconds to YouTube, Facebook, email, etc. It is a full three-channel R/C. The Wi-Spi Intruder is the ultimate spy car. Controlled by your smartphone or tablet, the Intruder offers live video transmission to your device and allows you to record video, pics, and sound. Then, you can upload your missions and share with your friends in a matter of seconds. Wi-Spi Intruder

Toy Book Exclusive

CarBots Are Pets for Your Desk

esk Pets’ CarBots are smartphonecontrolled micro-robotic cars. Using infrared technology, they can navigate mazes on their own. Using the free Desk Pets app, you can battle and race the CarBots.

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iPad Karaoke, from Sakar

akar’s upcoming iPad Karaoke System includes a microphone with an iPad docking station, which will allow users to download an app called Karaoke Anywhere, enabling lyrics to be displayed on the iPad instead of on a separate machine. Sakar unveils Disney AppClix, a 7.1 digital camera that connects directly to the Apple iPad via the tablet’s proprietary 30-pin connector for easy photo transfer even by children. Developed under liDisney AppClix 7.1 MP cense with Disney Computer Products as part of that organization’s family-friendly iPad app-based accessory offerings, the new camera allows kids to take their own pictures and then connect for instant photo downloading, customizing, and sharing. The Disney AppClix 7.1 MP edition features Disney characters such as Tinkerbell, Minnie Mouse, and Phineas & Ferb.

FEBRUARY 2012

Appcessories Nukotoys Has Something New in the Cards

ukotoys is a toy industry start-up that creates toys and games that combine both digital and physical play. This spring, Nukotoys will launch its Animal Planet and Monsterology Nuko Collectible Trading Cards. The cards contain characters and items that spring into action when touched to the screen of an iPad, iPod touch, or iPhone in conjunction with the free Animal Planet and Monsterology game apps being released in the iTunes App store. Virtual Nuko cards are also available within the free Nuko application. Players receive one free pack of virtual cards when they download the Nuko app, and can purchase more of the digital version by paying for them via their iTunes account. Physical Nuko cards are more powerful than the virtual ones. The Animal Planet Nuko game is an iPad/iPod+ trading card game that lets kids collect, trade, learn about, and interact with 50 exotic animals in wild lands. Animal Planet Nuko cards were designed with realistic 3-D animals, plus videos and photos from Animal Planet’s extensive library. The Monsterology Nuko game, based on The New York Times best-selling Ology book series, is a world of monsters and myths that comes alive. Monsterology is a Animal Planet Nuko tactical turn-based iPad/iPod+ trading card game where kids ages 6 and up can collect, train, trade, and play with 3-D mythological creatures, including unicorns, cyclops, and sea serpents, in a quest to become “Master Monsterologists.”

WowWee Introduces App Gear

owWee’s App Gear brand launches with several items. App Commander lets you connect your Apple/Android device to a physical app gun and seamlessly play against real world foes or digital enemies at the same time. App Commander brings digital first-person gaming into the real world. Zombie Burbs is a collectible line of zombies that battle it out with human opponents. The figures unlock missions, abilities, and new levels of game play. Alien Jailbreak is an augmented reality shooter game in which the user looks through his or her smart device at included set markers to see an alien prison rooftop and searchlights scanning the area. The object of the game is to stop the escaping aliens by shooting them. Foam Fighters is a collectible line of small, detailed foam airplanes that look realistic and really fly on their own. The Foam Fighter attaches to the device to allow your hands to fly the planes. Mysterious Ray Gun is a container of 12 random parts. Put together in dozens of different ways, players create their own unique ray gun that is scanned via image recognition into your smart device Zombie Burbs and used in-game.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Appcessories Eastcolight Takes Kids to Space

his year, Eastcolight (HK) Ltd. introduces the updated Planetarium with Multimedia Speaker and Radio. Designed to entertain and educate, the planetarium brings astronomy education into the bedroom. Precise star field data is used, and there’s a shooting star every minute. With the multimedia speakers, kids can play their own music through a smartphone, an iPod touch, or an iPad. Automatic star field rotation is available in five different speeds to match the music. A built-in radio is also available to keep listeners up-to-date with the latest news and information. Users can set an automatic off timer for 30 or 60 minutes. It is available in six colors.

To Appfinity and Beyond, with Spin Master

pin Master’s Appfinity brand of mobile gaming platforms takes interactive gaming to a new level. Each Appfinity item is compatible with iPhone 4, 3Gs, and iPod touch 4th Generation devices, and will be available for select Android devices this fall. Make any iPhone a playful plush pal with Appfinity Applingz. Download the free app and slide your phone into the sleeve. Adopt an appling and give it a name and birthday, and then care for him, play with him, and build a relationship. The more you play with it, the smarter it gets. The Appling will talk back and respond to voice commands, touch, and motion. Take fishing to a new level with the Appfinity Appfishing Rod. With real casting and jiggling, it uses device gyro to simulate a real fishing experience. Reel and casting buttons are connected through touchpad technology. Put the pedal to the metal with the Appfinity AppDrive. Take to the streets with racing, to the air with flight games, or head off-road with motocross games. Four console-designed buttons create a seamless driving experience. Lock ’n load your iPhone or iPod touch with the Appfinity AppBlaster. Using dual triggers, trigger-tap technology, and augmented reality applications, the AppBlaster turns any environment into a virtual gaming experience. The iPhone/iPod touch connects securely and safely to the Blaster, locking it in place for high-intensity action. Discover the fusion of reality and technology through seven different apps: Alien Attack, Overkill, Marine Sharpshooter, Pull! Clay Pigeon Shooting, Tin Can Alley, Wacky Hunter, and Duck Hunt. Cars 2 Appmates is a new toy line that comes to life digitally when used with an Apple iPad, transforming the tablet’s screen into a virtual play mat. Cars 2 Appmates features miniature vehicles with sensors on the base of the toy that are recognized as a unique “footprint” by the Cars app—with no cable or Bluetooth connection required. Download the free Appmates Cars app from the iTunes App store, place a Cars 2 Appmates character on the screen, and play. The virtual play mat provides a seemingly endless world to explore where kids can re-create favorite movie moments and dream up new stories in the world of Cars. The line features four new characters, including Sub McMissile, Jeff Gorvette, Carla Veloso, and Raoul CaRoule. Each character unlocks different features and content.

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Appfinity Applingz

FEBRUARY 2012

Appcessories Silverlit Flies with Bluetooth Technology

ilverlit uses Bluetooth technology for its Interactive Bluetooth R/C Series. The Interactive Bluetooth Blu-Tech Heli is a three-channel helicopter with full-gesture controls that connect and follow the movements from an Apple iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Sound effects and force feedback vibrations simulate a real flying experience, while the gyro stabilization design allows for easy flying. The app is free for download with the purchase of the product. The Ferrari Enzo is an interactive Bluetooth-controlled vehicle with full-gesture controls that connect and follow the movements from an Apple iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. This 1:16-scale Ferrari includes full-function digital controls, variable speeds, multi-racing steering, and head, tail, and turning lights. The Porsche 911 Carerra is an R/C car designed to run using the power of an iPod touch, iPhone, or iPad as the remote control. Full-gesture control allows you to control the car with the tilt of the controller, giving you the feel of real racing. Sound effects from the Porsche deliver the rev of the engine; force feedback delivers the engine’s rumble, which increases as you go faster (iPhone only). The classic Porsche 911 body features functional headlights, tail lights, and signal lights. Silverlit’s Smart Link Ferrari allows you to control movements and gestures directly from an iOS or Android smart device. Each 1:50-scale Ferrari features a compact design and interactive speed, with full- and partial-gesture I/R controls. Download free apps from the App store/Android market for replica Ferrari dashboards and controller programs. Smart Link Ferrari is recommended for ages 5 and up.

Physical Apps Is Here

hysical Apps, a New Hamsphire-based technology company, has created TheO, a new ecosystem for mobile games, activities, and learning. The soft foam ball, together with specially designed mobile apps, allows players to have an entertaining movementbased experience while safely protecting people, their smart devices, and their surroundings. TheO works with the iPhone, iPod touch, and Android smartphones to create a fresh approach to gaming and physical activity. The ball features a secure cushioned slot to hold a variety of smart devices, enabling fun, ball-based games and activities to be played by a single player or a group. The smart ball can be safely rolled, tossed, and bounced, with the smart device protected safely and securely inside, while players physically interact with each other. Current apps include Hot Potato, Bowling, and Interrogo, a social interactive game. A variety of custom app-based games are in development. They all take advantage of the unique features of smart devices such as acceleration sensing, direction, and motion sensing, plus sound and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing TheO to link with additional accessories.

Interactive Bluetooth Blu-Tech Heli

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Mattel Goes iNitro

attel’s Hot Wheels R/C iNitro Speeders transform the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch into fully functioning control pads for Hot Wheels micro R/C vehicles. To get started, download the free iNitro Speeders functionality app with controller-themed skins. Next, plug in the included wireless iOS adapter to the device’s headset jack, tap on the app, and you’re ready to race. iNitro also comes with a racing game to play when not using the app’s R/C mode. Each vehicle includes a compact carrying case, which also doubles as a charger. The Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Apptivity Monkey is an interactive plush learning toy for babies that also lets them enjoy their own apps on a parent’s iPhone or iPod touch device. Simply place the Apple device into the case located on the monkey’s belly and twist the lock. Baby can squeeze monkey’s hands and feet to interact with the app, which teaches baby about colors, numbers, animals, and more. The monkey entertains baby with more than 10 songs, tunes, and phrases, without a device inside. It is compatible with iPhone 1G, 3G, 3GS, 4G, and iPod touch 3G and 4G. Parents can download free Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn apps from the App Store on iTunes.

FEBRUARY 2012

Hot Wheels R/C iNitro Speeder

THE TOY BOOK • 105

Dolls & Plush Clip and Go with ZombieZoo

Toy Book Exclusive

uddly and creepy collide with plush toys from ZombieZoo/Boo2Yoo, Inc., created by children’s author and illustrator Neecy Twinem. ZombieZoo is a family of plush animals including Boo the black cat, the natural born leader of the group; Stich, a pig obsessed with hygiene; Muck, the “party animal” monkey; Rob, the poetic rabbit; and Toxic, the competitive red snake. The new Mini ZombieZoo clip-on plush, in four-inch sizes, are soft replicas of each character that hang from a red hook. Each character comes with a tag telling its story.

sive Toyok Exclu Bo CJ Products’ New Pillow Pets Serve and Protect

J Products introduces two new styles in its Pillow Pets plush foldable stuffed line. The Pillow Pets Police Car and Fire Truck will be available in this year’s first quarter. The Police Car’s classic styling includes different shades of soft blue with a white cab, and red, white, and blue lights on the roof. The Fire Truck is bright red with black and gray accents, and has a gray ladder design on top. Both styles will be available in the large 18-inch size. Pillow Pets Fire Truck

Toy k Exclusive Boo

JC Toys Has Lil’ Cutesies

he Lil’ Cutesies doll line, from JC Toys Group, Inc. offers a new item this year: the Lil’ Cutesies Buggy with an 8.5-inch vinyl doll. The Lil’ Cutesies line has expanded to include different themes and accessories. There are three Lil’ Cutesies available: Bibi, Mimi, and Lulu. They are available in a variety of outfits and with fun accessories. Lola, a 14-inch, all-vinyl doll, is available again, and dressed in a floral print dress and matching hat. Her new outfit is embellished with bows and ribbons. Lola

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Dolls & Plush Jada Gets Girly

Cutie Pop

Toy Book Exclusive

ada Toys is moving into the girls’ segment with the introduction of Cutie Pops, a line of dolls, pets, and accessories that girls can customize to create their own styles and fashions. Each articulated doll comes with extra styling accessories so girls can change their look or style. The pets also have their own styling accessories. The Cutie Pops line includes fashion packs, accessories, and the Decoration Station, a carrying case to hold the Cutie Pops accessories. Jada enters the small doll category with Flittles, a collectible line of fairies in training. Imagine a rainbow-filled sky in a world where animals fly with sparkly wings, and the sweetest of babies are being trained to be Flittle Flyers. The line includes dolls, accessories, and play sets.

Folkmanis Offers Furry Friends of All Sizes

olkmanis, Inc. introduces 20 new puppets this spring, including a new category, Little Puppets. Little Puppets are specially sized for younger children, scaled down to approximately seven inches tall to fit the small hands of a young child. The line includes seven detail-rich plush puppets: Alligator, Brown Bear, Polar Bear, Chipmunk, Hare, Lion, and Raccoon. Folkmanis also offers full-bodied plush puppets. The American Alligator Puppet is 31 inches long, with soft, plastic teeth, realistically rendered scales, and a long tail. The 16-inch, tri-colored Basset Hound Puppet has the breed’s classic droopy eyes, long floppy ears, and pink tongue. The 15inch Cow Puppet has a movable mouth and soft hide, horns, and hooves. The colorful Crab Puppet has a 12-inch, multicolored body and rounded shell. Slip your hand into his underside to wiggle his legs, pincers, and movable mouth. The Duckling is a small, nine-inch puppet with moveable wings and mouth. Its bright-yellow faux fur emulates soft down. The Golden Eagle Puppet features feather-like bronze-and-golden plush fabric, a movable beak, and broad, flappable wings with a 24-inch wingspan. The Gopher features a movable mouth, soft buckteeth, and long child-safe claws made for digging. The 20-inch Horse Puppet has a flowing mane and tail. Designed like it’s galloping, one American Alligator can operate her mouth, turn her head, or buck and rear. The six-inch Nibbling Mouse Puppet sits with his wedge of cheese while his rotating head is always on the lookout. The 15-inch, two-toed Baby Sloth Puppet is designed to be carried everywhere, with soft “claws” to hang from the nearest branch or bedpost. The Leatherback Sea Turtle Puppet is the largest living sea turtle, recreated in this 12-inch Folkmanis puppet with a movable mouth and flippers. Brown leather-like fabric creates a realistic-looking shell. Folkmanis introduces its line of finger puppets, the Minis. The Mini Lop-Ear Rabbit is four inches tall, off-white, and has a lop ear that flops. The black-and-white Mini Woodpecker is six inches tall with a scarlet Mohawk tuft.

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Dolls & Plush Underground Toys Expands Licensed Toy Range

nderground Toys has expanded its toy range following the success of its Star Wars Talking Plush. The company has signed new deals to manufacture Sonic the Hedgehog, Transformers Prime, Thundercats, and Doctor Who soft toys. Underground also has the license for Lalaloopsy. Chewbacca

Aurora Releases New Garfield, Signature Premium Plush

urora World, Inc. will release a variety of plush products based on Garfield and his friends. Aurora will launch the new Garfield Collection, including classic and seasonal styles, in October. Garfield plush will be distributed to specialty shops, gift stores, and retailers in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand through December 31, 2015. Aurora has also signed a license for Air Penguin, the kids’ adventure game for iPhone, iPad, and Android. In January, Aurora released three five-inch Air Penguins plush in pink, blue, and brown. Signature by Aurora is a new, high-end plush animal line that is detailed and handcrafted using sumptuous materials. The line initially includes 30 plush animals in the wildlife, jungle, and exotics categories. Signature pieces range from seven to 43 inches. Aurora also debuts new dinosaur-themed plush toys, featuring five lifelike dinosaur designs and three hand puppets that join an existing line of more than 15 plush dinosaur pieces and puppets. The five new dinosaurs include Triceratops (10 inches), Pteranodon (10 inches), Stegosaurus (12 inches), Brachiosaurus (11 inches), and T-Rex (12 inches). The dinosaurs have plastic eyes, and their scales are highlighted with a reflective material. Three new dinosaur hand puppets include Iguanodon, Parasaurolophus, and Oviraptor, each 10 inches in size. Aurora adds jungle and domestic/barnyard assortments to its WannaBes line of five-inch YooHoo & Friends dressed as other animals. Also new for this year, threeinch key chain styles feature a YooHoo & Friends animal holding a message such as Pteranodon the peace sign, “xoxo,” and “Happy Birthday.” Aurora will release two-toned fabric for a number of its new lines this year, including Sweet & Softer, an 11-inch Wishful Bear, Silly Monkey, and Jewel Pets. The short pile plush appears reflective and bright from one angle, and soft and smooth from another. Nine 12-inch animals join the Sweet & Softer line, including Sense Skunk, Squiggle Squirrel, Foxy Fox, and Bashful Bear. The Silly Monkey assortment includes six 16.5-inch huggable and colorful monkeys with long fluffy tails and big fuzzy cheeks.

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Dolls & Plush CJ Products Releases Character Pillow Pets

J Products’ newest Pillow Pets line of plush foldable stuffed animals features characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine, Dora the Explorer, and SpongeBob SquarePants from Nickelodeon, as well as Shrek and Donkey from DreamWorks Animation. CJ Products is also releasing a line of 18-inch Disney character Pillow Pets, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Lightning McQueen, and Tow Mater. CJ Products offers Pillow Pets plush in a premium line for specialty retailers and a standard line for the mass marketplace. The Pillow Pets Premium plush line features softer, more luxurious fabrics and special “collector-level” branding, including an exclusive tag. The Premium styles are exclusive to specialty retailers for a limited time, and then will be introduced to the mass market as new Premium styles are created. Minnie Mouse Pillow Pet

Pretty Ugly’s Uglyverse Expands

retty Ugly, LLC introduces new Uglydoll products. The Uglydoll family began with a drawing of an orange character called Wage, and this spring, Pretty Ugly will release a nine-inch 10th anniversary Wage plush doll. Uglydoll plush characters are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Ghosty, who will be available in August/September, has fear issues. He’s afraid of all kinds of things and needs your help to get through it all. It’s really scary stuff: “What if my bread turns to toast? What happens when it’s time to change a light bulb? What if I follow my heart, ignore others who doubt me, and work night and day to make my dreams come true?” So you see, his fears and your fears aren’t much different, but that last one with the dreams come true part—you can help him through that one, as you obviously already know how that one goes. Other new characters include Gragon, Softy, Little Bent, Flatter, Mover, Handsome Panther, and Gassy. Uglybuddies will launch this spring in six styles: Ox & Ice-Bat, IceBat & Wage, Wage & Babo, Babo & Babo’s Bird, Wedgehead & Ox, and Bop ’n Beep & Jeero. This line consists of a nine-inch plush with a four-inch plush buddy. Everybody needs a buddy. Sure, your buddies will have your back after a bad dream, or when it’s dark, or when the cookie jar is empty, but they are also there for you to share the good times. BBQ? Buddy is ready. BBQ with pie after? There. Kick the ball around? Done! Ride in the cart at the market? OK! Help with rude people? Yes! Help with homework? No. See, your buddies are there like 90 percent of the time! But they are 100 percent behind you as you work hard to make your dreams come true and do what you love. OK, now get in the pouch. Ox & Ice-Bat Uglybuddy

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Dolls & Plush Hang with Howly Owls, from Piggy Wiggies

owly Owls are new from the creator of Piggy Wiggies. Mr. and Mrs. Owl have five owlets, including Cheeky Chicken and Pipsqueek the Pirate. Rest your head on Mr. and Mrs. Owl pillows, or take your Howly Owl everywhere with Howly Owl key chains. Each owl comes with a name and backstory.

“Frill”ing Fashion from Douglas

ouglas Company debuts its latest purses. Ruffle Totes have layers of frilly ruffles filled with floral prints and polka dots beneath an embroidered yoke. Each eight-inch bag has two wide coordinating print handles embellished with grosgrain ribbon. There are seven new Ruffle Totes to choose from: Hot Jazz Ruffle Tote, Floral Harvest Ruffle Tote, Flower Dance Ruffle Tote, Fresh Lime Ruffle Tote, Cool Bloom Ruffle Tote, By the Sea Tote, and Mimi Mermaid Tote. Douglas Company will debut seven new Sillo-ettes wristlets this year. Sillo-ettes are the silhouette of an animal shape fashioned into a wristlet purse that swings from the wrist, or readily clips on to a larger bag. Each bag is corded on the edges to outline and define the animal’s shape. Styles include Flicker Bird, Owl Blossom, Peace Dog, Bubbles Fish, Shelly Turtle, Pink Filly, and Dreamy Caravan Elephant. Sassy Pet Sak Sillos are bags shaped like the silhouette image of the animal they’re named after. Each quilted fabric bag is trimmed in coordinating cording. These over-the-shoulder bags come in eight new styles: Floral Harvest Bird, Owl Blossom, Rodeo Pink Horse, Dreamy Caravan Elephant, Pink Filly, Moon Flower Butterfly, Hip Happy Chihuahua, and Flower Dance Butterfly. The new Furry Couture pieces feature peace signs and animal prints in four new styles. The Duchess Westie and Pippa Golden Retriever boast peace signs on their tie-dye colored bag body. Rachel Chihuahua and Kira Shih-Tzu are covered in high-sheen animal prints. New Sassy Pet Saks designs include Floral Harvest Tote with Golden Retriever, Pink Filly Tote with White Horse, By the Sea Sak with Cream Lab, Owl Blossom Tote with Owl, Hip Happy Tote with Bichon, and Rodeo Pink Tote with horse. Each design is detailed with its own citrus hues, polka dots, geometric patterns, and plenty of paisley and florals. Douglas Company has signed a licensing agreement with Scholastic Media to introduce the Clifford the Big Red Dog’s Fun Fashion Assortment. Along with plush Clifford dogs of all shapes and sizes, Douglas has created a fashion line for Clifford, too. The products include a Clifford Tote, Clifford Sillo, Clifford Sillo-ette, Clifford Head shoulder bag, and Clifford hand bag. Dreamy Caravan Elephant Sassy Pet Sillo

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Dolls & Plush Fiesta Gets Sweet

iesta’s Fiestalicious line is a set of cupcakeshaped, zip-up totes, each holding a 7.5-inch plush animal. The set comes in puppy, teddy bear, frog, turtle, giraffe, elephant, and monkey versions. The totes come in lemon yellow and raspberry color schemes, and are adorned with plush frosting, embroidered sprinkles, and a red cherry on top. Also new for Fiestalicious is the Peek-A-Boo Plush, a cushion that unzips and turns inside out to become a pink smiling cupcake. The cushion is embroidered with the phrase “Sweet Dreams.”

Fiestalicious, puppy

Playmates Is Furbulous

laymates Toys introduces a new collection of toys inspired by Build-A-Bear Workshop. Furbulous Fashion Friends, available in bear, kitty, puppy, and bunny varieties, are four inches tall. Fancy, Grooving, Daisy, Hip Hop, Ruffles, and Jazzy are dressed in mix and match fashions and include shoes and earrings. Additional friends include Buttercup Kitty, Pretty Pup, and Petal Bunny. The four-inch Shopping Fur Fashions bears are dressed in casual daytime outfits, but come with an additional dressier nighttime option complete with a handbag. Basic and deluxe play sets are also available.

Tonner Doll Has Miss Matched Style

onner Doll introduces its new line of dolls, sculpted by Robert Tonner. The Little Miss Matched Dolls, including the Rock ’n Roll, Uptown, Sporty, and Artsy Girls, are full of personality. They come fully dressed with a coordinating fashion bag, nonmatching socks, and a headband. An additional pair of glasses are included for the Rock ’n Roll and Artsy dolls. The dolls are 15.25 inches tall with 10 points of Little Miss Matched Dolls articulation. The City Girls dolls are fresh from college and ready to start their careers. The deluxe dolls come fully dressed with removable outfits designed by Robert Tonner. The basic doll comes with a dressing gown and separate fashion packs. The dolls measure 16 inches tall with 12 points of articulation, allowing for maximum poseability. The dolls have rooted saran hair for styling fun. Maudlynne Macabre is a quirky young girl who lives in a slightly sinister Victorian mansion in a sleepy Upstate New York town. She’s bitter sweet and goth chic, and likes things slightly dark, whether it’s dark chocolate, walks in her moonlit garden, or just hanging out with her best friends Victoria, the ghost in the attic, and Poe, her talking raven. The doll is 15.25 inches tall and has 10 points of articulation. She has rooted saran hair for hair play. Fashion packs are also available.

Furbulous Fashion Friends, Pretty Pup

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Dolls & Plush FFD Designs Has Five Pet Blankies

y Pet Blankie is a roll-up plush blanket by FFD Designs. This multipurpose blanket transforms into a plush toy. When unrolled, the blanket is made of hypoallergenic material that is machine-washable and stuffing-free. Ideal for pets as well, My Pet Blankie is available in five character styles: Ernie the Doggy, Elliot the Elephant, George the Giraffe, Mookie the Monkey, and Lily the Bunny.

Adora Dolls Come to Life with Cuddly Bodies and Giggles

dora introduces its Adora Giggle Time baby doll line for ages 2 and up. The Giggle Time new collection of 14.5-inch Adora Giggle Time babies includes five styles with three different skin tone and eye color combinations. Each doll has been handcrafted to be lifelike, with a soft, doeskin body and a bean bag-weighted bottom. They are also hand-painted, made of Adora’s baby powder-scented Gentle Touch vinyl, and don individually sewn costumes. At just over 16 ounces, Giggle Time babies are easy to take along in their very own baby carrier. The baby dolls come with a magnetic pacifier, a baby doll carrier, and a “giggle” sound, activated by a gentle touch of the tummy. The giggle mechanism is removable before machine washing. Adora produces dolls based on the Girl Scouts of USA. Founded in 1912, the Girl Scouts’ mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Girl Scouts celebrates its 100-year anniversary this year. Nursery Time Babies are swaddled in a one-piece jersey outfit, and tucked inside a cushioned baby doll carrier. Weighing two pounds, seven ounces, they feature button noses and tiny hands and feet. Adora Playtime Babies, weighing approximately 12 ounces, are designed to be a first baby doll and have a silky smooth body. Both handmade dolls are also created in the company’s Gentle Touch vinyl, and feature bean bag-weighted bottoms. The Wizard of Oz Dorothy Amazing Singing and Talking Doll is 22 inches, and features dark brown hair and brown eyes. The doll is officially licensed and completely interactive, responding to a child’s voice. There are 35 interactive phrases, complete with facial and head movements. Dorothy is dressed in the classic Wizard of Oz blue-and-white checked gingham dress and red ruby slippers. Adora’s Toddler Time line features dolls with hand-painted, lifelike faces. Each costume is hand sewn. There are several styles to choose from, including Oink!, a 20-inch doll with light blond hair and blue eyes. Pink piggies, black-and-white polka dots, and ruffled stripes decorate her costume. Also available is Adora’s Classic Snow White, created in celebration of the 200th anniversary of Snow White (Brothers Grimm). The 20-inch doll has dark brown hair and brown eyes. She is costumed in a storybook-inspired satin dress that was created in the traditional colors of white, yellow, red, and blue.

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Dolls & Plush Kids Preferred Has Squaredy Cats

ids Preferred is the new licensee for Squaredy Cats, and is focusing on building the plush line in specialty market accounts. A new series of Squaredy Cats plush was introduced into the marketplace over the holiday season, feeding the excitement of the property’s growing fan base and adding to the existing line of cats. The new Squaredy Cats include Sandy, Not Squared to Make Waves, complete with her favorite surf board; Pearl, Not Squared to Smile, who proudly displays the braces on her teeth while holding a camera; Scarlett, Not Squared to Bug You, dressed up as a ladybug; and Star, Not Squared to Shine, who is made out of a shimmery, iridescent fabric.

Spin Master Reigns Victorious Jay at Play Introduces Little Miss Muffin

pin Master’s Victorious fashion doll line is based on the Nickelodeon show, Victorious, which is entering its third season. The premise of the show circles around Tori Vega, one of the most talented students at Hollywood Arts High School. The Freak the Freak Out doll sings the hit song, “Freak the Freak Out.” Lift her left arm and microphone to her mouth to hear her sing and lift her right arm to hear the crowd go wild. The Tori Doll wears her signature red dress, which comes straight from the show. She also wears boots and other accessories so girls can play out key scenes from the series. The Victorious Friends Dolls assortment includes Trina, Cat, and Jade. Each doll looks just like the real character, and their fashions come straight from the show. The Victorious Microphone gives any girl the chance to express her inner Tori Vega. Kids can sing the theme song “Make It Shine” along with Tori, or try it all on their own with just the instrumental as a back up. Combine with additional sound effects, such as a back beat and audience applause, to make the performance unique.

ittle Miss Muffin, new from Jay at Play, is a “Pop ’n Flip” doll packed with surprise. Little Miss Muffin peeks out of the muffin cup when you pull her hat, and can be pulled all the way out to reveal a full 19-inch soft doll. Little Miss Muffin is also available in a nine-inch version. The doll is available in 10 “flavors,” and is safe for ages 3 and up.

Tori Doll

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Dolls & Plush Corolle Introduces Babipouce

ntering Corolle’s classic Babicorolle collection for newborns is Babipouce Blackcurrant, a soft and huggable first doll. With her soft pink paisley outfit and knitted cap, she’s the ideal doll for little hands to hold and snuggle.

MGA Expands Bratz, Lalaloopsy Offerings

ratz Catz are new to MGA Entertainment’s Bratz lineup this spring. Each doll has sunglasses that convert to cat ears, a fur wrap that transforms to a cattail, and a reversible skirt/tutu. Also new for Bratz, Featherageous is a fashionista doll that allows girls to create different hairstyles with a “magic” hair tool and feather accessories. The Featherageous kit comes with an easy-to-use styling tool, faux feathers for the doll or child, and a doll stand. Bratz Funk ’n Glow fashion dolls feature light-up party dresses and tiaras. Girls put on the 3-D glasses to watch the doll’s light show. New Lalaloopsy Littles are the younger siblings of the original characters. Each doll has a unique personality and a pet. Lalaloopsy Sew Magical Mermaid Doll has hair that changes under water. Her pet blowfish squirts water. The new Mini Lalaloopsy Silly Pet Parade is composed of animated wagons with their own motion features. The wagons link together to make a parade of animals, each with its own motion feature, from spinning to wobbling to moving up and down. Each product includes one pet and one wagon. Lalaloopsy Littles

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Kingstate Offers More Than Just Pretty Faces

ingstate Doll Company introduces eco-friendly Baby Emma’s Travel Trunk. Baby Emma’s Travel Trunk is shipped open for retail display. Once its window is removed, the package folds to become a reusable carry case, which holds Emma and all of her accessories. It is safe for ages 2 and up. The trunk is similar in cost to a disposable package. Baby Emma’s Travel Trunk line is available in 16-inch and 18-inch doll sizes. Kingstate also manufactures a line of corresponding baby doll outfits, accessories, and furniture for its line of dolls. Kingstate now offers free membership to www.LotsOfLearningFun.com as a bonus with a doll purchase. For members only, the site features an editorial staff that locates, reviews, rates, and indexes the best “free stuff” the Internet has to offer parents. The selectable directory links to more than 18,000 resources that provide ideas and creative ways to entertain and educate children ages 0-5, including e-books, crafts, music, math, and reading activities.

FEBRUARY 2012

Dolls & Plush Olly Oogleberry Teaches Kids About Space Gund Dolls Have Personality

und offers Gund Girls, soft, cute, and stylish fashion dolls for spring. Four different dolls are available to suit the unique personalities of little girls. Brooklyn is a glamorous city girl who loves pink; Sloan is a California surfer girl; DeeDee loves traveling; and Emma is artsy and loves to dance. Appropriate for ages 3 and up, each 17-inch doll comes with one removable outfit for dress-up play. Gund brings Boo, “the world’s cutest dog,” to brick-and-mortar stores everywhere this spring. The Internet sensation with 2.7 million fans on Facebook, and the star of his own books, calendars, and YouTube videos, is available to fans for the first time. Boo is suitable for kids ages 1 and up. Gundimals soft animals are produced using meticulous manufacturing techniques to create the most realistic animals as possible. Animals, available in three sizes, include dogs, cats, farm animals, and wildlife. The plush toys are safe for ages 1 and up.

Gund Girl Brooklyn

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ickle Me Silly will be debuting its first character property, Olly Oogleberry, a curious alien looking for adventure and discovery. Olly and his band of alien misfits find earthlings and teach them about space, aliens, UFOs, and galaxies. In addition to the collection of “cosmically cool” plush dolls, there is an Olly Oogleberry book, The Fabulous Adventures of Olly Oogleberry: Mission to Save Earth. The hardcover book has 52 pages of illustrations.

North American Bear Updates a Classic

nspired by the traditional European style of the classic Waldorf Doll, 18-inch Willow Dolls, made of soft cotton jersey knit with yarn braids, are contemporary soft companions. The dolls’ subtle embroidered facial expression and relaxed body shape enables a child to imagine their own doll personality and special characteristics. The doll wears sewn-in linen shoes with a coordinating removable linen jumper and a striped cotton knit top. It is recommended for kids ages 3 and up.

FEBRUARY 2012

Smart-Looking Dolls from Smart Zone

mart Zone announces the release of two new doll lines, Color Fun Girls and Girl Time, in a 12-inch size. The dolls have long comb-able hair and set-in disk eyes. Color Fun Girls have a magic wand, and when the special spot on a doll’s outfit is touched, the wand lights up and she talks. Each doll has five fashions for her specific color. The Girl Time line is designed to celebrate special moments in little girls’ lives. The first six themes are Flower Girl, Ballet, School, Sleepover, Holiday, and Birthday. Each themed doll is sold individually or as a set featuring child-size accessories to match the doll’s theme. Color Fun Girls

Toys Talk Brings Spark Dogz to the U.S.

oys Talk brings its Spark Dogz (formerly known as Spock) line to the U.S. this spring. This series of plush dogs features voice recognition technology and fully articulated movement. Children are able to ask various questions and receive different answers every time the toy is turned on. All characters tell jokes, answer questions, and sing their ownsongs. Characters include Super, Hip Hop, Rock & Roll, and Kat.

Dolls & Plush A New Steiff Donkey

teiff’s Issy Donkey is made of soft plush, is machine washable, and has the classic Steiff “button in ear” trademark. It is recommended for ages 4 and up.

Playdin Zips It Up

laydin, LLC’s new Zip-Itz are plush creatures targeted toward ages 3 and up. The plush creatures “came to life” after a mysterious factory machinery malfunction at the Zany Zipper Factory. Instead of zippered rain boots, wallets, and purses, the machines spewed out colorful ZipItz instead. The plush items are adorned with rainbow-teeth zippers that open to reveal secret pockets. Each creature has its own story, fabric pattern, and design based on what it was intended to become at the factory. The line includes six Zip-Itz characters and 12 mini Zip-Itz friends. By 2013, Playdin plans to develop play sets, pillow plush, plastic zipper creatures, and more for the Zip-Itz brand and the Zany Zipper Factory world.

The Wild Side of Plush

ild Republic improves its cuddleability and quality with all new materials and fabrics. The new eight-inch mini Cuddlekins and new 12inch Cuddlekins sizes add nearly 200 new items of African, rainforest aquatic, North American, and prehistoric animals. Wild Republic’s classic Hanging Monkeys line receives a “fur lift” with the addition of the new Hanging Hug ’ems Monkeys in both 14inch and 20-inch sizes. Also new are Noodle Doos, stretchable, twistable, and super long (54-inch) plush animals. The Noodle Doo crocodile, leopard, giraffe, and tiger are the first to arrive, with additional styles to follow. Cuddlekins, Bear

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Vermont Teddy Bear Introduces Pillow Puppets

he Vermont Teddy Bear Company introduces Pillow Puppets, a new plush toy that is made from soft furs and fabrics and features long puppet arms and hands. Kids slide their arms in and bring their Pillow Puppet to life. The cast of Pillow Puppet characters includes five furry friends, each complete with a buddy: the Blue Monster with Spider Buddy, Monkey with Banana Buddy, Frog Pillow with Dragonfly Buddy, Teddy Bear with Bee Buddy, and Pink Monster with Spider Buddy. The plush toy also doubles as a naptime cuddle buddy. Blue Monster with Spider

FEBRUARY 2012

Zoobies’ Versatile Companions

oobies’ versatile Duffle Dogs duffle bag and soft plush toys are great for travel. Posh the Poodle is bedazzled with soft pink curls and little hair bows. Dot the Dalmatian has soft fur and black spots. The soft, plush bodies, which are also duffel bags, have a blanket zipped inside and straps for carrying. A child can pack and carry their belongings as they head out for an adventure or a sleepover. Zoobies brings classic storybook characters to life with Book Buddies. The plush toy opens up into a well-known bedtime story. Buddies include The World of Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar and the classic Norman Bridwell storybook character Clifford the Big Red Dog. Zoobies and Hello Kitty team up to offer the Hello Kitty Blanket Pet. The plush toy is also a pillow that comes with a uniquely printed cozy coral fleece blanket zipped inside. Llama Llama Red Pajama is not only a plush toy, but also a pillow and a cozy coral fleece blanket with a printed patchwork quilt design from the original classic. Book Buddies, Clifford the Big Red Dog

Dolls & Plush Madame Alexander Finds Waldo

adame Alexander has created two limited-edition Where’s Waldo dolls—a 10inch doll and a 14-inch cloth doll—to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Classic Media property. The company also introduces two new 12-inch cloth play dolls, for all ages, based on the award-winning book series Ivy and Bean, by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall. Where’s Waldo cloth doll

Tomy Introduces Treena and Friends

omy International introduces Treena and Friends, a Japanese toy brand targeted to young girls in the U.S. Ideal for ages 3-6, the Treena and Friends line will include more than 20 collectible figures with whimsical facial expressions. With one touch, a character’s face magically transforms between two distinct facial expressions. Each figure also has a distinguishing look and personality, and comes with an activity booklet. In addition to the figures, the Treena line will include a variety of play sets that feature one-touch transformations. With one touch, the Treehouse Playset transforms into a deluxe party treehouse with three levels of play space. Themed mini play sets and mid-sized play sets will also be available. Treehouse Playset

Jakks Rocks Out with Winx Club

akks Pacific is ready to bring the fairies of Winx Club to toy aisles with the release of its new 11.5-inch Basic Fashion Dolls, featuring the characters in either concert or everyday fashions. The Deluxe Fashion Dolls feature the six friends with 11 points of articulation, fashionable outfits, and hinged wings. Girls can then migrate to the Winx Club Rock Concert Stage, complete with music, sounds, and a Bloom doll. The Magic Wing Bloom Feature Doll allows kids to be in control of the character’s Believix transformation. Once placed in the transformation station, and after the lever is slid into place, Bloom will spin, sing, and gain wings. Hello Kitty Fashion Wear is a line of soft, 11-inch plush that feature a new body style with longer legs, fashionable shoes, and removable clothes. The available styles include ballet dress, sporty, and daytime. With the Hello Kitty Fashion Winx Deluxe Fashion Doll Packs, girls can change Kitty’s style every day with five new fashion outfits, including prepster, cheerleader, tennis, PJs, and rainy day. Add wheels to the ensemble with the Hello Kitty Fashion Rollerskater Feature Plush, which comes wearing a hoodie, rainbow accessories, and roller skates.

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Activity & Construction Smart/Tangoes USA Zooms On

Toy Book Exclusive

mart/Tangoes USA introduces SmartMax Racers building sets. The wheels and cockpits can be easily clicked onto the bars, and the racers can be combined with all existing SmartMax sets. SmartMax Airborne trades in wheels for wings, with build-your-own rocket and airplane kits. One of three different kinds of wings, the propellers, and the cockpit can be easily clicked onto the bars. The SmartMax Express allows kids to build trains, cars, and trucks. SmartMax Drive and Fly includes cars, trucks, and airplanes. Finally, the SmartMax Stunt set uses magnets to allow children to build towers, bridges, and other super-sized constructions for their vehicles. Later on, kids can complete SmartMax with extension sets. Parts in all sets can be combined with existing SmartMax sets.

Drive and Fly Airplane

K’nex Speeds Ahead with Roary and Top Gear

Toy Book Exclusive

’nex introduces the Kid K’nex Roary the Racing Car Building Set Assortment, which let kids construct the speedy PBS character. Both Roary and Max come with 18 pieces for building, and Tin Top comes with 16 pieces. The building sets also include a flag, a trophy, and a road sign. An included adapter allows for the cars to run on a track. For more Roary action, the Silver Hatch Garage Building Set includes 40 pieces with a removable hood, gas pumps, walls, stairs, and other garage accessories. The Silver Hatch Start Line Building Set has 48 pieces and includes Roary, a tower, road signs, a track, and other start line accessories. With K’nex’s Top Gear Stig’s Track Car and Bike/Rally Car Building Set Assortment, kids can build and modify vehicles inspired by Top Gear challenges. The assortment includes a track car, a race car, a rally car, a Stig figure driver, a label sheet to customize a build, and a Stig poster. Kids can create a launcher with the Car Darts Building Set, which includes a front-loader that can haul the launcher or serve as a target for the cars. A laminated bull’s-eye is included to help practice accuracy. Stig can also hit the air with Stig’s Attack Copter and Off-Roader Building Set. The helicopter’s missile launcher shoots three foam darts, and can combine with the off-roader to form a mega-assault vehicle.

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See us at Toy Fair Booth #1765

Activity & Construction Amav’s Got Mythical Horses

mav Enterprises introduces a new collection of pre-cut wood kits. Kids can build the Pirate Ship, Extreme 4 x 4, or a Knights Castle kit that includes pre-cut wooden pieces and all accessories necessary to complete their designs. Kits are recommended for ages 7 and up. Amav is expanding its line of horse and animal painting activities with Mythical Horses. This activity brings two horses of legend, the winged-horse Pegasus and the unicorn, straight out of mythology to today’s kids. Horse enthusiasts can paint and design their own animal sculpture. Illuminated electronic drawings can be created on Amav’s new double-sided 5 in 1 Hi-Lite Art Easel. This art easel features a light-up drawing surface that automatically rotates through seven different color patterns, including a flashing one, so drawings can be displayed in a variety of colors. The sturdy easel also includes a chalk board, a magnetic board, and an art drawing board with a pull-down, tear-off paper roll. 5 in 1 Hi-Lite Art Easel

LaQ Pax in the Possibilities

aQ is a new construction toy that can create flat, two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and spherical models from just seven types of parts, available in 10 colors. The square- and triangle-shaped base parts connect with five different angled joint pieces to produce endless possibilities. LaQ makes a “snap and click” sound when parts are connected. Beginners can start out by simply connecting the parts, and quickly progress to flat models, creating various patterns and figures. Once a child learns how to add an angle joint, a flat model of an animal can become realistic by making it two-dimensional and three-dimensional. LaQ has been used in therapy and rehabilitation centers as a fun and effective tool for improving fine motor skills and cognitive function. The new Hamacron Constructor Series kits offer the added bonus of motion with specialized Hamacron parts and wheels. Each of the four kits in the series features a 26-page instruction guidebook that shows step-by-step instructions to make race cars, helicopters, jet fighters, excavators, motorcycles, fire trucks, and more. Pax 56, a new starter kit for children ages 3 and up, is designed to expand creative thinking through construction play. The 56-piece kit is composed of two types of large rectangle- and hexagon-shaped blocks in red, blue, yellow, and green. Pax parts snap together by inserting the side of the parts into the grooves. Pax 56 includes an instruction guidebook with step-by-step illustrations to make eight interchangeable models, including a train, horse, car, flower, snail, windmill, helicopter, and bird, all from only two types of blocks.

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Activity & Construction Sweet Play-Doh Treats, from Hasbro

Play-Doh Swirling Shake Shoppe

he Play-Doh Swirling Shake Shoppe, from Hasbro, allows kids to create their own Play-Doh ice cream shakes and smoothies. Children can mold their favorite fruits out of Play-Doh compound, then swirl them together in the transparent color-mixing blender, and turn the crank to pour their shake into the cup. The play set includes four three-ounce cans of Play-Doh, a whipped cream extruder, and molds and accessories. The Play-Doh Perfect Pop Maker play set assists kids in making Play-Doh popsicles and lollipops. The set includes four pop sticks, four two-ounce cans of Play-Doh compound, and two interchangeable book molds that allow kids to create and display their favorite “pop treats.” Both Play-Doh products are safe for ages 3 and up.

Mega Launches First Builders Brand

ega Brands introduces its new flagship brand, Mega Bloks First Builders, the new collective name for all preschool blocks designed for little builders ages 1 and up. Mega Brands will implement this brand across the globe on all Mega Bloks first block products, accompanied by a fresh new look. Mega Bloks now caters to the girls’ category with its new Sparkling Princess collection, designed specifically for preschool girls ages 1 and up. Mega Bloks launches a whole new scale of building with Super Builders, enabling children to build and rebuild lifesize play structures such as castles and houses, which they can play inside. The collection is for ages 2 and up. Whirl ’n Twirl Ride-Ons feature cute designs as well as caster wheels that allow kids to “whirl ’n twirl” in any direction. Mega Bloks expands on its girls’ line of building toys with several additions to its Hello Kitty line, including the Ice Cream Parlor and Pool, which features its own carry case. The company will also introduce its new Moshi Monsters line. Mega’s Thomas the Tank Engine line has been completely refreshed for this year with new packaging and new builds. For kids and collectors, Mega Bloks is licensed to launch the exclusive construction toy collection based on World of Warcraft, the epic fantasy massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). Fans will soon be able to bring the iconic locations, races, and vehicles to life with the new Mega Bloks World of Warcraft collection. Mega Bloks will be driving its Mega Bloks Halo brand to new heights with Halo Universe by synchronizing its collection with the upcoming launch of Halo 4. This authentic construction line brings to life the vehicles, characters, and locations from the Halo Universe. A new license for Mega Bloks is Power Rangers Samurai, which will become Super Samurai this year. The line recreates the key elements of the show in buildable and collectible micro figures, vehicles, buildable action figures, and play sets, with mix and match, rebuilding, and other features. The Power Rangers Samurai line is designed for kids ages 5 and up, as well as collectors.

Power Rangers Samurai Megazord Claw Zord

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Activity & Construction The Orb Factory Sticks ’n Styles

he Stick’n Style Cupcake Clutch craft set, from The Orb Factory, is designed for ages 5 and up. Follow a simple numbered legend and add more than 150 sparkling jewels to create this tasty clutch. Match fabric colors to numbers to decorate the PlushCraft Butterfly Pillow. Use the purple stylus to punch pretty fabric into a pillow to create this craft. Children ages 4 and up can create a froggy friend with the PlushCraft Frog Prince set. Use the stylus to punch fabric and make this fabric-by-number craft. Add a crown and jewels to complete the character. Follow the numbered legend to make Stick’n Style Hippy Chic Crystal Cuffs. The kit comes with two different cuffs to decorate and share.

My First Creative Collage gives kids ages 3 and up the chance to explore textures and colors while creating prehistoric pictures. The colorful 3-D collage sets come in T-Rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus themes. Young girls can create their very own headbands with the Sticky Mosaics Fancy Nancy Fun with Fashion accessories set. Stick glittering crowns to headbands, and slip pretty charms on ribbon and pipe cleaners to make bracelets and hair accessories. Each set comes with three headbands, three hair clips, six pipe cleaners, six satin ribbon pieces, three glittering crowns, 16 fancy charms, and more than 850 sparkling tiles and jewel pieces. With the VeggieTales My First Sticky Mosaics Fun Friends craft kit, match colors and shapes to make Bob, Larry, Junior Asparagus, and more. Use stands to display your creative creations. Follow the numbered legend on the VeggieTales Sticky Mosaics Friendship Box and add sparkling jewels and tiles to complete the project.

Good Link International Introduces Ballooniac Kits

ood Link International’s Ballooniac balloon brand has a new line of instructional Balloon Twisting Kits, which include detailed instructions and videos to make it easy for children of all ages to learn how to twist balloons into animals and other shapes. Ballooniac is celebrating the success of the launch of its dedicated Balloon Boutiques at Toys “R” Us Times Square and FAO Schwarz in New York City. Ballooniac began a worldwide association with Toys “R” Us in 2011, starting with its dedicated Balloon Boutique at the Hong Kong Ocean Terminal Toys “R” Us and balloon sections throughout the entire Hong Kong chain. In addition to selling a full range of balloon-related toys, Ballooniac Boutiques teach children how to twist balloon animals and shapes with in-store demo workers and video monitors with instructional videos. The Ballooniac has brought his live show of balloons and songs directly to stores, performing pop-up shows in the Ballooniac Boutiques at Toys “R” Us stores around the world. Ballooniac’s live touring show is hitting the road for scheduled stops throughout Asia and the U.S. Good Link is actively looking for media partners and app partnerships.

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Activity & Construction Laser Pegs Figures Light Up

aser Pegs Ventures offers a variety of kits that allow kids to build with bricks that light up. New for this year are action figures that light up just like the Laser Pegs Bricks. Laser Pegs will soon be compatible with other popular building sets, so kids can light up all their creations.

Alex Introduces More Than 100 New Products

mong Alex’s 100-plus new items for this year, the company introduces five fashion products using specially formulated and safety-tested duct tape, in eight bright colors and patterns, as a craft material for tweens and teens: Duct Tape Bangles, Duct Tape Tote, All Duct Out deluxe fashion kit, Duct Tape Fashion, and two multi-packs of tape in hot and cool colors. Alex has created three new headband kits: 2 Pretty Headbands, Color 4 Sweet Headbands by Alex/Dylan’s Candy Bar, and So Many Headbands!, which comes with 10 headbands and lots of decorative accessories to make countless looks. Girls can create their own flavors and colors of makeup with Mix & Make Up kits. With Juice Tab Jewelry, make bracelets All Duct Out out of juice tabs in 12 colors (including neon) and a variety of punch-out shapes, such as hearts, stars, and peace signs. The kit includes

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enough tabs to create four bracelets. The Tots Art Start is a toddler’s first art kit, and comes with materials for six works of art. Alex is expanding its line of developmental toys for baby with 11 products including wooden toys, teethers, rattles, and arts and crafts products. The Mix ’n Max toys have vibrant illustrations featuring the character Max. Alex’s Little Hands line for preschoolers expands with eight new products, including eco-friendly puzzles, wooden toys, and craft kits. Alex partners with the creator of Gallop! to introduce ScaniMagic, which lets kids color their own animation. Open the lid of the ScaniMagic scroller, color the scrambled image with the markers, and roll the knobs back and forth to watch the picture move. Bling Along is a new collection of craft kits that lets kids decorate items with sticky tiles and sparkling gems. It’s easy to follow the color guide to apply the pieces. Bling by color to create shimmering Bling Along Frames, a Flip Flop Jewelry Box, or 3 Cake Jewelry Boxes. Pops Craft is a new series of activity kits that provide parents with a quick, fun project for their child. Each Pop comes in a “fun-sized” package, and each one is identified by a different bright color. There are Pops for both boys and girls that feature a variety of activities such as making Paper Chains, Spoon Critters, Bling Treats, and Pretty Headbands. There are eight kits to choose from, all easy enough for a younger crafter.

FEBRUARY 2012

Activity & Construction Tech 4 Kids Has New Activity Sets

ech 4 Kids’ Color ’n Glow activity board combines UV light and glow pens to turn images into multi-dimensional pictures. Easy and safe to use, the board’s screen wipes clean so kids ages 4 and up can create limitless 3-D artwork designs. On the double-sided board, kids can trace images or play games such as tictac-“glow” in 3-D. Each unit comes with a special design glow easel, two twin tip glow pens in four colors, four tracking stencils, and 3-D ultra vision glasses. Tech 4 Kids introduces LumiLite, an activity toy that allows kids to create and light up glowing art in 3-D. Use the pre-designed template art stencils and free draw stencils to create free-draw designs. Scratch off the stencil to reveal the colors, and insert into the frame to see the creation in 3-D. Licensed and non-licensed refill design packs are available in Hello Kitty, Moshi Monster, Fairies, and Cosmos themes. The Magna Color activity board transforms designs into 3-D artwork by using a magnetic coloring studio and colorful 3D Magic Dots. Four Magic Dot dispenser pens allow kids to place corresponding dots to color in the design template. Draw designs with the dots, and put on 3-D glasses to see the finished product. The Magna Color activity board comes with a specifically designed magnetic drawing studio with screen sweeper, four design stencils, four Magic Dot dispensing pens, 106 pieces of 3D Magic Dots, 3D Ultra Vision glasses, and a self-contained storage system. Refill packs include Rainbow Sky, Midnight Garden, Hello Kitty, SpongeBob, and Dora themes.

Colorbök Does Arts and Crafts with Dr. Seuss

olorbök, Inc.’s new activity sets include Dr. Seuss and National Geographic licenses. Colorbök’s Dr. Seuss Stoopendous Clock Kit comes with everything children need to build their own clock. Portable and reusable, Dr. Seuss Wipe Erase Fun offers fun, educational activities, from learning ABCs to how to draw. The six Dr. Seuss Activity Pads offer a variety of activities, ranging from a scissor (cutting) activity and journaling to art and doodling and an on-thego dry-erase activity. Colorbök introduces a line of textured sculpting clay and kits. The National Geographic Textured Clay kit includes wood, sand, stone, and terra cotta textures, and allows kids to replicate dinosaur fossils or archeological artifacts. The all-inclusive National Geographic Paper Mâché Confetti Sculpting Kit features a full-color idea guide and directions on how to make a volcano. National Geographic Activity Pads, offered in six themes, include 30 pages of puzzles, games, paper crafts, and more. The National Geographic Animals Around the World Kit includes a 50-inch wall map of the world, five sheets of animal stickers, and a collectible fact card. Colorbök’s Sew Easy Plush Pals line includes 15 designs ranging from an assortment of National Geographic endangered animals to Keith Kimberlin and Precious Moments cuddly pets. Each kit comes with everything needed to create a plush pal, along with a craft activity, picked to complement the plush pal.

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Activity & Construction New Crayola Colors Are Full of Wonder

ith Crayola Mess-Free Color Wonder, kids can color and create with Color Wonder paper without getting paint stains on skin, clothing, or walls. Deck the walls with Crayola Mess-Free Color Wonder Glow Murals. Color the murals and watch the colors appear. Turn out the lights to make creatures glow in the dark. The glow effect recharges in the light. The set includes three Glow Murals and five Color Wonder Markers. The Crayola Mess-Free Color Wonder Floor Puzzle is a two-foot by three-foot dinosaur-themed floor puzzle. As kids color with Color Wonder markers, colors and images appear. Easy to assemble, the puzzle can be put together again and again. Crayola’s new My First Crayola line is designed for little hands and includes three ways for children to create: with art tools, mess-free art activities, and creative activities featuring dry-erase crayons and music. My First Crayola Washable Crayons, Markers, and Stampers are the right size and shape for a toddler’s hands. The rounded holders are shaped for the proper palm grip, and they also come in animal character styles. Toddlers can create colorful marks, or stamp out bright designs with crayons, markers, and stampers with washable ink. My First Crayola Musical Rub-Art Station offers toddlers sights and sounds as they create farm-themed artwork. Select one of the dual-sided rubbing plates, place it in the frame with paper, and then watch toddlers create a scene with the character rubbing tool. The Rub-Art Station magically recognizes rubbing, and plays music and sounds for toddlers to enjoy while they create. My First Crayola Dry-Erase Activity Mat is an on-the-go creativity mat that features 12 activities that slip into place so little ones can draw, erase, and draw again with Crayola Triangular Dry-Erase Crayons. The crayons’ triangular shape helps guide little fingers into a “tripod,” or writing grip, so toddlers can more easily trace and color. The mat folds up easily and features carrying handles and built-in storage.

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Simple Mobility with Tegu

egu’s Mobility line brings fully modular, magnetic wooden wheels to the magnetic wooden construction system. With Mobility, the crafted wheels click onto any Tegu Block creation, transforming it into a mobile vehicle. Mobility is fully compatible with existing Tegu products.

Connor’s Science Universe for Kids Has Polymer Power

onnor’s Science Universe for Kids, LLC will release two of its science kits, Polymer Power and Plant Pals, as party packs. Polymer Power comes with Slime Base Solution and Slimerizer Mix to make slime. Kids will learn about chemical reactions, polymers, and the process of experimentation. The Plant Pals party pack is for budding gardeners. It includes everything needed to grow mung bean, alfalfa, and wheat grass. Kids can take their newly planted seeds home and watch sprouts appear in just three days. Each pack has enough supplies for up to 10 children to conduct reallife experiments that will teach them science concepts. Designed for ages 4 and up with adult supervision, the packs include all of the elements for the experiments, plus a selection of gift bags and science-related party favors, such as toys and gadgets that can be mixed and matched in different quantities to suit any group. Connor’s Science Universe for Kids produces all of its products in the U.S. Both Polymer Power and Plant Pals, along with Crystal Explosion and Awesome Insta-Pets kits, are available as individual kits or classroom-sized activity packs.

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Activity & Construction RainbowBrush Pops Off the Page

ew to RainbowBrush’s calligraphy-style, brush-tip marker sets is the 3D Dinosaur Kit, which invites kids to create visual effects using the special markers and the included 3-D glasses. Each set comes with five RainbowBrush markers, 3-D glasses, 16 pages, step-by-step instructions, a jumbo banner, 21 stencils, and three 3-D effect scenes.

Fly High with Fashion Angels Enterprises

ashion Angels Enterprises’ new signature fashion products include the Braidzilla Bracelet Braiding Kit. Tweens and teens can make their own braided bracelets from a set that is packed with cording and the official Fashion Angels Braidzilla tool to make up to a dozen personally styled bracelets. The new Color Rox Hair Chox Kit offers experimentation with the trend of hair chalking. The temporary hair coloring kit is easy to apply and washes out with shampoo. The Feather Fashion Accessory Kit allows tweens the opportunity to create necklaces, earrings, and a hair extension using colorful feathers. Fashion Angels’ Velvet Poster Collection includes eight velvet-flocked posters and 10 markers to get the designing fun started. The Fashion Sticker Stylist Set is an album that features a fashion model to dress up and style. Choose the model’s garments, accessories, fabric swatches, and more. The set also comes with 20 style sheets and 700 metallic, puffy, and paper stickers to mix and match. Draw outfits with the Lalaloopsy Drawing Portfolio Set. Trace the stencils to different outfits for the Lalaloopsy gang, then color and embellish them with stickers. Stencils make drawing easy for beginners. The Lalaloopsy drawing portfolio includes 260 stickers, 40 activity sheets, six crayons, and two stencil sheets. The Lalaloopsy Gel Sticker Tin Playsets are customizable travel-size gel sticker tins. Dress Lalaloopsy characters with reusable gel stickers and place them in the scenes. This set includes 45 gel stickers and two scenes inside a travel tin. The Lalaloopsy Mini Sketch Book allows girls to sketch new outfits for their favorite Lalaloopsy characters. Color custom sketches with colored markers and a variety of stickers. This kit includes 72 stickers, 25 sketch sheets, 10 markers, and two stencil sheets. Fashion Angels also offers a Lalaloopsy Fashion Sticker Stylist Set. The new Monster High Fashion Sticker Stylist album comes with 20 style sheets and 700 stickers to mix and match. Choose fashions, accessories, beauty swatches, and more to create the Monster High look. This all-in-one album is easy to carry and features metallic, puffy, and paper stickers for tons of outfit combinations. Fashion Angels also offers a new Monster High Velvet Poster Collection, Barbie Velvet Poster Collection, and Barbie Fashion Sticker Stylist Set.

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Make Friends with Choose Friendship Company

y Friendship Bracelet Maker, from Choose Friendship Company, allows users to easily create friendship bracelets while storing their thread neatly inside. A butterfly clip keeps the bracelet in place during knotting. Easy-to-follow pattern instructions and 56 pre-cut threads are included in the slide-out storage drawer. Companion online pattern tutorials are available at myfbm.com. My Friendship Bracelet Maker Traveler is designed for kids on the go. The slide-out drawer comes with 20 pre-cut threads in 10 different colors. A globe clip keeps the bracelet in place during knotting. Numbered slots keep threads organized for written and video instructions featured at www.myfbm.com. With ribbons and beads, My Ribbon Barrette Maker lets kids create hair ornaments for themselves and their friends. The barrette holder and loom pegs secure barrette and ribbons as kids weave. The slide-out drawer keeps ribbon, beads, and barrettes securely stored. Eight different ribbon colors and tri-beads in eight colors are included. The My Ribbon Barrette Maker Refill Kit contains more than 300 pieces, including eight straight and eight wave barrettes, 32 ribbons, and 256 tri-beads in eight colors. My Ribbon Barrette Maker

Activity & Construction Three New Levels of Discovery

evels of Discovery introduces three new themed items to its Activity Desk Collection. Each new piece features a slow-closing metal safety hinge on the desktop, which opens to reveal a storage area with multiple compartments. The Princess Activity Desk Set comes adorned with the message “Always a Princess.” The Race Track Activity Desk Set includes eight 1:64-scale cars, and the Artist Activity Desk includes a color wheel design and compartments to hold crayons, markers, and pencils. Race Track Activity Desk Set

Eitech Races Ahead

ace to high speeds with the Eitech Radio Control F1 Race Car Construction Set. Designed like a real Formula 1 race car, the set teaches kids how to construct their very own race car model. Once the car is assembled, a twoway remote control allows kids to race against friends. Each set includes more than 300 parts made of high-quality steel, tools, and a rechargeable six- and nine-volt block battery and charger. It comes with one toy racer figurine and step-by-step illustrated instructions. Eitech is designed, engineered, and manufactured in Germany.

International Playthings Expands Arts and Craft Lines

nternational Playthings, LLC has re-launched its creative bead crafting sets, Wonderbeads, and re-branded it as Aquabeads. As before, the product allows children to make bead creations that stay together with a simple spritz of water. New this year and targeted for ages 4 and up, Spiral Bead Pens include three pens, more than 600 beads, four template sheets, a spray bottle, and three key chain attachments. International Playthings unveils a new category of magnetic play sets to its newly revamped and redesigned line of Imaginetics products, Coloring Playsets. These new play sets feature four sheets of magnets that children can color prior to play and use on the double-sided, printed play board. New coloring Imaginetics sets include Color Me Princess Set, Color Me Dinos play board, Fun on the Farm play set, and Race Day play board. Georello Basic Dog New additions to the Quercetti product line include Georello Basic and Fantacolor Portable. Whipple, a non-edible craft crème, gives children ages 7 and up the tools to become pastry and dessert designers. The Whipple line of craft activity sets includes Sensational Sweets, Perfect Pastries, Sweet Heart Cookies, and Gingerbread Treat House. Expanding the Whirl ’n Wear Charms product line, Whirl ’n Wear Headbands allows girls ages 5 and up to create trendy headbands with clip-on decorations. New headbands include Spin ’n Style, Hip Bands, Swinging Bands, and Glamour Bands. New accessory sets for the Whirl ’n Wear Charms line of craft activity sets are designed for use with the brand’s Spectacular Spinner, the easy-to-use stringing machine. New Whirl ’n Wear accessory sets include Accessory Assortment One, Alphabet Charms, Sea Life Charms, and Precious Charms.

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Have Fabulous Fun Making Things with Toysmithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Makedo

Makedo Find&Make

ick a theme, find your material, and get creative with the Makedo Find&Make, from Toysmith. Each kit includes Makedoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reusable reclips, lock-hinges, a safe-saw, a poster, and stickers to complete the creation. Take recyclable materials commonly found in the home, such as boxes and plastic containers, and transform them using Makedo reusable parts as the connecting mechanism. Introduce letters to children with the Alphabet Squiggle Game. Kids improve letter recognition and strengthen vocabulary while transforming letters into pictures and words as they move around the gameboard. The Flashback Rebound Ball lights up when bounced. Catch it as it rebounds on its stretchy 50-inch cord. Add a recycled magazine and two plastic bottles to the Green Science Green Rocket kit, and blast a paper rocket up to 80 feet high. Disguise yourself with pink fuzzy Peach Fuzz peel-and-stick moustaches. Sticker Club has more than 35 different sets to choose from. Order individual packs, or receive the entire selection with the counter display. Sticker themes include glitter, letters and numbers, and 3-D embossed collections. Friendship Bracelets includes two knotted silk bracelets for friends to share.

Activity & Construction Spin Master Bloomz

pin Master’s Color Bloomz is a paper craft activity set that allows kids to color and create a scene that magically bloomz to life. Create a scene using the jungle- and underwater-themed graphics. Color the blooming shapes with special markers; the color chosen is the color that blooms. Slot the printed graphic and blooming shapes together to create designs. Arrange the scene in the display case and add the magic solution; within 30 minutes the Bloomz will begin to grow. The Bloomz will continue to expand and transform for up to 24 hours. From the twisted mind of Doctor Dreadful comes heaps of horrifying treats to create and eat. Crank up deliciously juicy organs with the Doctor Dreadful Organ Grinder. Each tasty organ comes crawling with tasty bugs, and includes a syringe for injecting delicious goo. With Doctor Dreadful’s Alien Autopsy, make alien eyeballs and creepy lung bugs, and inject intestines. Watch as the bubbling alien guts brew to see them quiver to life and move. Share the delicious guys with family and friends. Jungle Color Bloomz

Design and Doodle with New Cra-Z-Art Products

ra-Z-Art’s new activity items include the 5in1 Activity Lite Cube, which features dry erase, tracing desk, glow dome, light peg art, and chalkboard in an all-in-one unit. The Ultimate 5in1 Activity Easel can be used as a portable lap desk or easel. It has two sides for dry erase, with a clip for paper or a chalkboard, and a slide-out drawer for storage. The iSlate Dry Erase Activity Case features a double-sided white and black dry-erase surface to create on, in a high tech-looking storage case. Cra-Z-Art now has the license for the classic Magna Doodle, and offers it in a small travel version, as well as Deluxe Doodler, School Bus, Travel Easel, and 2in1 Learning Board versions. Design and make colorful beaded strands of hair with the salon-style Shimmer ’n Sparkle Hair Beader. It’s easy to use—no batteries required. Fashion Marks offers a new coloring experience for tween/teen girls. It uses eight different coordinating designer marker color palettes, eight different fashion doodle line art styles, and a specially formulated Shimmer FX that is overlaid on top of marker colors to create colors that sparkle. 5in1 Activity Lite Cube

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Activity & Construction CitiBlocs Moves Ahead with Vehicles

itiBlocs is bringing its Neon 100-Piece Set to Toy Fair. For ages 3 and up, the building block set comes with green, pink, blue, orange, and natural-colored blocks for building towers, towns, castles, and more. Each set comes in a sturdy, paint can-style container for storage with a handle. The CitiCars 8-Piece Wooden Car Set features a taxi, police car, fire truck, and more that act as accessories for CitiBlocs constructions. The cars range in size from two to four inches, and are the same width/height as the standard blocks (approximately ¾-inches), making them suitable for kids ages 3 and up. The CitiBlocs Storage Bin folds or holds blocks. It’s lightweight, made of phthalate-free, non-woven poly fabric, and is decorated with a vibrant CitiBlocs city theme. Every CitiBlocs piece is the same shape and size, precisely cut from Grade A Radiata Pine from certified renewable forests in New Zealand, and packaged in China. CitiBlocs building requires no glue, snaps, connectors, or magnets––just gravity, balance, and imagination. CitiBlocs are certified safe and nontoxic, and have been tested and approved according to all Consumer Product Safely Improvement Act (CPSIA) regulations.

Manhattan Toy Gets into the Groove

anhattan Toy’s Groovy Girls get an update with the Craftalicious Cupcake Creations set. With clay frosting and colorful foam, kids can decorate each cupcake any way they choose. The set includes three cupcake-shaped containers, six pots of clay, three piping bags, glitter, stickers, paint, and more. After the cupcakes are done, kids can move to the Groovy Girls Sweetalicious Baking Set, which includes a mixing bowl, three measuring spoons, a baking tray, and a whisk. The Groovy Girls Glam-It-Yourself Jewelry Box is an open canvas waiting to be decorated. Each petal of the flowershaped box opens to reveal five compartments for jewelry and accessories. Groovy Girls FrameIt-Fabulous Magnetic Frames includes six puff paints, peel-and-stick magnets, and an instruction sheet to help kids make their photos all the more memorable.

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Build Along with Ohio Art

andzini, from The Ohio Art Company, is a vibrantly colored compound. Young craftmakers can cut it, mold it, and sculpt it. Once satisfied with their finished product, kids simply cover the Sandzini, let it dry, and then get ready to show it off. Kids can create 3-D works of musical art with musical versions of The Ohio Art Company’s nanoblocks. Kids use the micro-sized building blocks to create a violin or guitar version, which can fit in the palm of their hand. Clics is a single-piece building block set developed and made in Belgium. Kids “clic” the blocks together to build their creations. Sandzini Pony

FEBRUARY 2012

Lego Introduces Its New Friends

ego’s new Lego Friends line tells the story of five girls Vampire Hearse, The Ghost Train, and the Vampire Castle. from Heartlake City. It features a new mini-figure size Exclusive mini-figures are included in each set. Lego Ninjago tells the story of four young Nindesigned to encourage customization and role-play jas. This hybrid play theme for ages 5 and up. Twenty new sets are available, combines building and roleincluding a buildable house, café, beauty shop, play with social gaming. and convertible. The sets include Stephanie’s Customize Ninjago spinners Outdoor Bakery, Olivia’s Inventor’s Workwith the Kendo Cole and shop, Mia’s Puppy House, the Heartlake Dog Mezmo booster packs, which Show, City Park Café, Emma’s include one mini-figure, Splash Pool, Andrea’s Bunny tools, strategy cards, and House, the Adventure Camper, new elements. Add to the and more. game with the Venomari Create dinosaurs with Lego Shrine, Kai's Blade Cycle, Jay’s Dino, which includes Dino Defense Lego Friends City Park Cafe Storm Fighter, the Rattlecopter, Epic Dragon Battle, HQ, Ambush Attack, and Raptor Chase. Lego Monster Fighters features classic creatures and and more. Other Lego games include City Alarm, Maya Mystheir vehicles and home, including The Swamp Monster, The tica, and Heroica Ilrion.

Games & Puzzles ThinkFun’s Roll & Play

Toy Book Exclusive

oll & Play, from ThinkFun, is a child’s first game, designed specifically for toddlers. To play, simply toss the big plush cube and identify which colored side faces up. Choose a matching color card and perform the simple activity shown. Activities include “Make a happy face” and “Moo like a cow.” Designed for ages 18 months and up, Roll & Play includes a large plush cube, 48 Cards, and a storage pocket for the cards. The game is designed for a parent and child to play together. The game helps teach colors, numbers, and language skills, and encourages creativity, active play, and gross motor skills.

Boost Your Cosmic Consciousness with Cosmic Karma Game Partners

Toy Book Exclusive

osmic Karma Game Partners presents the concept of karma in a board game, with its Cosmic Karma Game. The board itself is mandala-inspired. Collect good karma as fast as you can while avoiding bad karma. Acquire the tools for skill development: torches (intuition), swords (reason), and wands (action). Maneuver around pitfalls, and don’t relapse with “fear” or “ego.” Collect Free Will Cards to expand your choices. The first player to eliminate all negative karma, collect all master tools, and return to Cosmic Consciousness wins. Game play encourages conscious choice, consideration of actions, recognition of free will, and recognition of the value of skills. Cosmic Karma Game is recommended for two to four players ages 13 and up. Game play takes 30 to 90 minutes.

Verdes Expands with V-Cube 3

erdes Innovations S.A. expands its V-Cube line with the introduction of V-Cube 3. V-Cube 3 is a three by three by three version of the original V-Cube, and will be available in two variations: the classical flat shape and the new “essential” pillow-shaped version, derived from the original V-Cube 7. Both of them have the same V-Cube mechanism. V-Cube 3 is a multicored, three-layered cube designed for smooth rotation. The player is required to discover a strategy to achieve uniform colored sides on his or her V-Cube 3. V-Cube 3 has 4.32* 1019 possible permutations and weighs only 98 grams. It consists of 26 smaller pieces and a solid cross that supports them, enabling them to rotate independently on based axes.

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Games & Puzzles Winning Solutions Makes Giant Scrabble

inning Solutions introduces Giant Scrabble, made under license from Hasbro. The Giant Scrabble game features an oversized, rotating wooden game board, with all pieces 50 percent larger than Hasbro’s classic version. The tiles and rack are also made with wood and the raised grid keeps letters in place during play. A tile pouch and score pad are also included.

Pressman Toy Says CatRatBatSplat

ressman Toy will develop a line of games based on the new preschool series Tinga Tinga Tales. Tinga Tinga Tales Swinging Monkey Race Game allows players to put their strategy skills to the test as they try to swing their monkey mover onto as many trees as they can. In the Tinga Tinga Tales Tell Me a Story Memory Game, kids get a chance to creatively tell their own story of why an object or animal is placed where it is within the game board, and then apply their memory skills to reveal it at the end. Additional games for Tinga Tinga Tales, such as dominoes, a Go Fish card game, a Pop ’n Race game, and a Make a Match game, will also be released. Another new license for Pressman is Power Rangers Samurai, the Nickelodeon and Nicktoons series. In the Power Rangers Samurai Samuraizer Switch Game, players move around the board collecting Zord tokens. When they reach a gap sensor, a challenge to a Nighlok is made and then the battle takes place. Power Rangers Samurai Make a Match and Pop ’n Race games will also be released. CatRatBatSplat is a frenzied dice game in which everyone is a player on every turn. The oversized dice feature images of a cat, a bat, a rat, and a splat, and the object of the game is to find the pattern from the dice on a game card and shout it out. No Speed Limit is a fast-paced domino game that starts with one tile in the middle of the play area. At the same time, all players begin matching their tiles to tiles that are in play, in an effort to get rid of them all. The Zombie, The Princess, and The Kid Next Door is a new threein-a-row game in which each player receives three tiles that depict a character, a shape, and a color. To win tokens, players must get three of the same tiles in a row. In Bass Ackwards, the right answers are wrong, and the game starts at the finish line. After questions are read, players must do their best to guess one of the two wrong answers out of the three given. It’s a Chicken is a child’s first drawing game. Roll to see what image you have to draw, then set the chicken timer and start. The pre-printed shape sheets help you get started. The sooner a player guesses what you’ve drawn, the further you’ll both move on the board.

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Games & Puzzles Who’s Got the Winning Moves?

inning Moves Games’ Scribbo is Bingo with words. Players call out a letter and a number, then write the letter in the space on their Sribbo grids. With careful letter placement, letters turn into words, horizontally and vertically and along the diagonal. Play continues until all grids are filled in, and points are scored for each word you make. Scribbo score pads, pencils, and illustrated rules are included. Winning Moves introduces new brain teasers. Brain Blocks is made up of eight plastic block pieces, each composed of a number of cubes topped by bumps and divots. In some positions, the blocks interlock, in others they don’t. Tower Challenge is a classic puzzle that looks simple, but is challenging. Move all the discs from one tower to another. Only one disc may be moved at a time, and you may never place a disc on top of a smaller disc. Scopa is a traditional Italian card game where players claim cards by playing a card from their hand that matches the value of one or more of the cards on the table. Taking a “scopa” means to sweep all the cards from the table. The set includes 40 illustrated cards, reference scoring cards, a score pad, and rules.

Hasbro Games Has Sunk Your Battleship

he classic two-player Battleship game gets a facelift with this spring’s Move Edition, based on the soon-to-open Battleship motion picture. The goal is simple: sink your opponent’s fleet before he sinks yours. Choose to command the navy or the alien fleet, and defeat your enemy with new special ops cards that allow you to fire out complete columns of coordinates, fire as many shots as you have ships, or force your opponent to reveal missed coordinates. For those who want a little more technology, the Deluxe Battleship Movie Edition is electronic and allows for single-player games against the computer. Another new installment of the classic Battleship game, the Battleship: Hidden Threat card game, hits the market this spring. This game’s card action takes just 15 minutes to play as contestants play peg cards to hunt down hidden enemy ships. Boost your attack and defense with special cards and ship powers. Be the first to sink the enemy fleet, and you win the game. Two new Star Wars-licensed games step onto the scene from Hasbro. In Operation: Star Wars, players must fix R2D2 before it’s too late. He’ll whistle and bleep if players make a mistake. A Guess Who? Star Wars edition is also on its way. Players ages 6 and up use the force to guess the mystery face. Who has caused a disturbance in the force? Is it a man? Is it a droid? Does she have brown hair, or is he wearing a white uniform? Spider-Man versions of Operation and Guess Who? are also on tap. Hasbro also brings a Spider-Man Wrist Shooter to the market. Kids use the wrist shooter to fling stretchy webs and knock over the targets to score points. The player with the highest score at the end of the game wins.

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Games & Puzzles GeoToys Goes Outside the Box

eoToys takes puzzles out of the box with new Puzzle Pouches and Puzzle Purses. The Puzzle Pouch is a soft, six-inch zipper pouch that contains a nine-bynine, 36-piece U.S./Canada puzzle and a printed map. Each Puzzle Purse features a nine-by-nine, 36-piece puzzle of Purple Little Bird, the children’s book by Greg Foley. Both of these items are portable, durable, and can be taken on-the-go. Each item comes in a shelf tray and is suitable for ages 3 and up.

Wiggles 3D Plays Checkers in Space

ith Randomonium, from Wiggles 3D, try to make as many connections between tiles as you can before the timer runs out. You have 20 seconds to link the words on your tiles to the tiles already played. You can be as creative as you’d like, but your fellow players will decide if your play counts or not. Spanish and French editions will also be available. The game is for two or more players, ages 10 and up. Army vs. Aliens tests your gaming skills in fast-paced dice combat. Can flying saucers and death rays beat out tanks, nukes, and troopers? Choose whether you want to fight off alien forces as the army, or if you want to be the aliens trying to conquer Earth. Players can outsmart their opponents to win by combining strategy, cunning, and a little luck. There are 18 custom dice—nine for each team. Included guides help players plan their battle moves. The game also features two dice cups that snap together to double as a carrying case for portability. The game is for two players, ages 8 and up. Space Checkers combines the luck of dice with the strategy of checkers. Four races of aliens have discovered Earth. All of them want to invade the planet, and they’re not interested in sharing. The races agree to decide the matter in a space showdown. The winner takes all, with Earth as the prize. Players capture opponents’ flying saucers by jumping over them. The first race to collect any 10 ships wins the game. Space Checkers is designed for two to four players, ages 6 and up. Fingertips, a finger puppet-inspired game, has three games in one. The deck of cards features lions, penguins, nurses, and clowns, among others. The game is designed to build matching skills, hand-eye coordination, and memory skills. Games can be played cooperatively or competitively to match kids’ skill levels and needs. It is for two or more players, ages 3 and up. Ding combines the fun of trick-taking and trump card games with the card strategies of draw poker, plus the ultimate game changer—spelling D-i-n-g with the letter cards. The mix of number, letter, and wild cards makes Ding a challenge. It is designed for three to eight players, ages 8 and up. Army vs. Aliens

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Games & Puzzles Get Creeped Out with Yamodo

amodo! Good to Go!: Creepies and Crawlies, the new game from Yamodo!, follows the familiar Yamodo! game play pattern. In traditional Yamodo!, each player selects a card, then uses his or her imagination to draw and define the made-up word on the card. The twist with the themed sets is that the drawings and definitions should relate to the category of the theme.

Play Games with TCG

CG offers new games for adults. Relay the Game is a fast-paced game that features three games in one. Players simply explain their word as quickly as possible to encourage their opponents to guess correctly. The faster they guess, the more points both players receive. With RFID technology, the baton identifies players, tracks time, and keeps score. Knotz is a fast-playing game of cards. Game play begins with two rows of colored cards and a deck of colored cards for each player. Players turn over their colored cards, one at a time, and find its match in the middle two rows. When there’s a match, players keep their hands on their card pile. The first player to finish matching his or her deck wins. TCG’s new games for kids and families include Sqworm. In this game, players use their “sqworm ’n worms” to surround and eat the most apples. They roll the dice to choose their worm and the number of spaces to move. The player with the most apples eaten wins. Didi Dotter is an egg scramble extravaganza. This fast-paced game challenges players to find their matching egg halves before their opponent steals the other half of the egg to complete their own. The player to match the most eggs and find complete matches for all of their tokens wins. Loopin’ Louie challenges hand-eye coordination when Louie starts loopin’. Players use their springboard to bounce Louie back into the air before he knocks down their chickens. The player with the most chickens in their coop wins. Bouncin’ Bingo offers bouncin’ fun for everyone. To start the game, players bounce the ball into the game box to see what character to cover on their card. The player to match and cover five characters in a row calls “Bingo!” by sounding the noise of his or her card’s character. A Max & Ruby-licensed version is also available. TCG also offers licensed games for kids. With Little Tikes Games for Growing, even the youngest game player can have fun while learning the alphabet, numbers, colors, and shapes. Each game features eight learning card games and three levels of learning, as well as a teaching guide. In the 3-D matching game Lalaloopsy Find ’n Seek, girls lay out the 12 Match-It cards face down, then pull the lever to spin the dial. When the dial stops on a Lalaloopsy ragdoll, players select a Match-It card. If the card matches the ragdoll, players keep the card. A Pocoyo Find ’n Seek game is available as well.

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Games & Puzzles Griddly Games’ New Generation of Wise Alec

riddly Games introduces new expansion packs for its Wise Alec game of strategy, as well as the new Wise Alec Junior for ages 4 and up. Wise Alec Junior contains four separate games that combine memory, matching, charades, counting, and storytelling. Wise Alec Body Works and Wise Alec Bright Ideas are two new travel packs that aim to put a light spin on elementary classroom topics. The two sets don’t include a board, making it convenient for on-the-go play, but they can also be played with the original Wise Alec board. Body Works explores the ins and outs of the human body and its functions. Bright Ideas challenges players to shine a light on inventors and their inventions. Wise Alec Body Works

The Haywire Group Is Robbin’ Eggs

eaturing a robin’s nest with 18 eggs, The Haywire Group’s Robbin’ Eggs is a game of math, memory, and luck. Each egg has a number on the bottom—some positive, some negative. Turn over eggs one at a time trying to get the sum of your eggs as close to the rolled number on the die while following the rules on your drawn card. Your opponent might have a “rob” card and steal the egg you need before you can get it. Players try to remember the location of numbers as play progresses, until another player scrambles the locations with a drawn card. The player with the lowest score at the end wins the game. It is recommended for ages 7 and up. Bear in Underwear is based on the book by Todd H. Doodler. Help Bear and his furry friends find their lost underwear. Players race through the forest trying to find the matching underwear for their animals. The first player to complete their card wins the game. The Bear in Underwear board game is for ages 3 and up. Animal Soup is another animal game based on a book by Todd H. Doodler. Players try to complete their silly animals first by mixing and matching animal tops and bottoms. Be the first to make a squale (squirrel + whale), birdle (bird + turtle), croctopus (crocodile + octopus), or other weird combination. The game is for ages 3 and up. Dicecapades Dice-T is a dice-rolling crossword game where spelling words plus lots of luck equals a win. Each player gets 12 dice and three cards. Most cards have incomplete crosswords on them, while some cards might give you bonus points or have you swapping cards with an opponent. Beware of the penalty cards. Use your rolled dice to complete your crosswords and the first player to complete all of their puzzles earns a bonus. Every completed card is worth points. The first player to earn 50 points wins. The game is for ages 8 and up. Dicecapades! Fill in the Dice, for ages 8 and up, is a fast-paced word-spelling dice game for the whole family. The dice will tell you how many letters your word needs to have, whether certain letters have to be in the word, whether you’ll need double letters, or whether the word needs to start with or end with a certain letter. Be the first to come up with a matching word and win the round. Lo Yo!, for ages 7 and up, involves strategy, risk, memorization, and luck. When you think you can win the game and you’ve shouted “Lo Yo,” a player can use Lo Yo! Catch Up and turn the whole game around.

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Games & Puzzles Spot It! with Blue Orange Games

lue Orange Games is rolling out new games, including four new versions of its best-selling card game, Spot It!. With Spot It! On the Road, for ages 7 and up, turn over a card, and scan the scenery for things that match the card’s symbols, which represent something on a typical road trip. Spot It! Jr. Animals, for ages 4 and up, has a scaled down card deck and six symbols, instead of eight, making the game accessible for youngsters. Adorable animals appear on all the cards, with one big animal on each card for easier spotting. Blue Orange Games also offers two sports editions, Spot It! MLB Edition and Spot It! NHL Edition, both for ages 7 and up. With Chef Cuckoo!, players ages 7 and up are armed with a stack of Ingredient Cards, and are given a food challenge: create the yummiest or yuckiest meals with Chef Cuckoo. The best—or the worst—chefs will emerge from the kitchen with the stars to prove it. Search the seas for matching shrimp in Shrimp Cocktail, for ages 7 and up. The shrimp may share any of four characteristics—quantity, origin, size, and color. When you catch a matching shrimp trait between the three fishing zones, squeeze the starfish to haul in your catch and collect your cards. The slickest shrimp spotter will be crowned King of the Prawns. Drawing inspirations from cards illustrated with whimsical characters and situations, players of Tell Tale Fairy Tales weave fanciful stories ranging from the romantic to the preposterous. The game is designed for ages 5 and up.

University Games Has Kids Poppin’ and Hoppin’

niversity Games introduces Poppin’ Hoppies—an activity game for the entire family. This game will have players jumping around the room racing to catch the Hoppies. In Spot the Difference, players compete against one another to find the subtle differences in images that seem to be identical. Front Porch Classics is also offering new games. Don’t Tip the Cows invites players to roll miniature cows into unnatural positions to score points. World’s Best Dice Games includes a dozen favorite dice games, plus a few new ones. These games include Baseball with Dice, Poker Dice, Hooligan, Yacht, and Saratoga. BePuzzled, a division of University Games, expands its selection of puzzles with new lines designed to appeal to people of all ages. Young puzzle solvers can create stories with Moshi Monsters and Tinga Tinga Tales characters through the new Colorforms Activity Puzzles. Once solved, the puzzle becomes a backdrop for Colorforms story creation using pieces that stick “like magic.” The new My Generation jigsaw puzzles depict photographic images from important events of the past 50 years, and feature special pieces that are easy to see and pick up. These 300-piece puzzles may be easier to use, but they are not easier to solve. For those who like an extra challenge, BePuzzled is now the official distributor for Beverly Enterprises’ Original 3D Crystal Puzzle line. The complete line comes in three different sizes and more than 30 challenging versions.

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Games & Puzzles Buffalo Games Releases Charles Wysocki Puzzles

uffalo Games plans to release two new puzzle series from Americana artist Charles Wysocki. The new series, including 1,000-piece and large size 300piece puzzles, shows off some of Wysocki’s most beloved paintings. Other new 2012 titles include City Collages, Majestic Castles, Eyes of the Wild, Days to Remember, and, the “game of all time,” Chronology.

Find It Games Launches Into Space

or the future astronomer, Find It Games introduces Starry Night, a game that features 40 glow-in-the-dark items that kids can gaze at to see what cosmic images turn up. The game begins with a star-shaped container filled with brightly colored pellets. When the room is darkened, and the container is shaken, players look inside and document the items they see. Shapes include Saturn, a satellite, and even “down-to-Earth” objects, such as a sleeping bag and a mug. Many different items are tucked among the siloshaped cylinder of On The Farm, another new hidden object game from Find It Games. The new Pieces of History line of puzzles features images of significant events familiar to both children and adults. On Dry Ground captures the crossing of the Red Sea, and The Parade of Animals shows a world full of animals prior to Noah’s Ark. Completing the puzzle is just the first step. Like traditional Find It games, players need to look closely to uncover hidden objects within the artwork.

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FoxMind Travels the World

oxMind’s I Go! is a fast-paced game that gets the whole family thinking on their feet. Draw cards in turn and try to improve your hand. Have a dynamite hand? Declare “I Go!” Were you too hasty, or was it worth taking the risk? FoxMind also introduces two versions of Map It, the ultimate geography exam. In the World edition, players take turns placing randomly drawn location cards in the correct position around a given starting point. Is Bangkok north or south of Cancun? What about Mount Everest? Is it to the east or west of St. Petersburg? If you’re not sure, make your best guess. You’ll also score points by catching errors made by confused opponents. Bringing families a little closer to home is the U.S. version of Map It, which challenges players with city and landmark cards within the U.S. Is New York north or south of Seattle? What about Miami? Is it to the east or west of Memphis? With two levels of play, young minds and seasoned globetr otters can lose themselves in this game of directions.

FEBRUARY 2012

Eurographics Is Puzzling

urographics introduces several new titles and collections in poster prints and jigsaw puzzles. The company dedicates half of its titles to science and education. Best-selling puzzles include the Illustrated Periodic Table of the Elements, The Human Body, and The Solar System. Eurographics is the exclusive licensee for puzzles and posters for the movie Dolphin Tale, the story of the dolphin Winter and her prosthetic tail. The company has partnered with Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, to create puzzles and posters. Eurographics Vintage Art collection will offer several historical images of the Canadian Pacific Railways in both posters and jigsaw puzzles.

Fat Brain May Drive You KooKoo

ith Fat Brain Toy Co.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s KooKoo Puzzles, arrange, overlap, and angle six puzzle pieces to form a continuous image. KooKoo Puzzles have colorful, silly illustrations, and expand visual and critical thinking skills. They are available in three titles: Classic Fairy Tales, Funny Fliers, and Moovin & Groovin. There are five themed puzzles in every box, designed for ages 7 and up.

FEBRUARY 2012

Games & Puzzles Take a Trip to Wowopolis

owopolis brings a fresh perspective to game time for kids and families with Sound It! Found It!, Puzzle Match, and Colorgami, combining traditional games with a creative spark. Sound It! Found It! is a two-in-one board game that is both a guessing game of silly sounds and a hidden object game featuring original scenes drawn in a humorous, contemporary style. Puzzle Match is a memory and matching game designed for young children. When the matching portion is complete, players assemble the pieces into a giant scene. Colorgami is a series of activity coloring sets that also pop out and become three-dimensional. The Space Adventure, Red Carpet Collection, and Puppet Maker activity sets each come with four large Colorgami sheets, themed environments and accessories, and markers.

Funnybone Offers a Colorful Trio

ew to the world of game making, Funnybone Toys will launch three new card games: Array, Cubu, and Spectrix. The goal of Array, which is appropriate for ages 8 and up, is to connect the cards to build an array of colors. Array can be played on a table, but to see how big an array can get, the floor is recommended. To win, build the largest array of color possible. In Cubu, visual illusion leads to confusion as players try to follow number and color sequences. The ultimate goal is to reach 100 points before your opponents. A spin-off version, Speed Cubu, tests players’ visual perception. Both Cubu games are suitable for ages 8 and up. Spectrix challenges players to build and expand groups of beautiful color sequences by mixing and matching their own and other players’ cards into strategic groups. Be the first to play your entire hand to win.

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Ceaco Celebrates 25 Years

eaco introduces 171 puzzles from more than 40 artists including Thomas Kinkade and Jane Wooster Scott, and a Ceaco Classics line of the company’s best-known images over the past 25 years, in celebration of its silver anniversary. A newly licensed artist series is the Sylvia Weinstock Cakes 550-piece series for the “Queen of Cakes.” Another new artist is Debbie Mumm, whose lifestyle brand will be commemorated in a 550-piece assortment. Ceaco Kids will introduce new sticker and glitter puzzles for Pinkalicious, based on the books by Victoria Kahn; fuzzy puzzles and sticker puzzles for Lalaloopsy; and puzzles for MoshiMoshiKawaii. MoshiMoshiKawaii is a Japanese brand that started as a good luck charm—“kawaii” means cute and kitschy in Japanese.

FEBRUARY 2012

Techno Source Raises Waldo’s Visibility

his fall, Where’s Waldo?, the character that’s always difficult to locate, can be found at Techno Source (a division of LF Products) with a new line of product offerings in celebration of the brand’s 25th anniversary. The Where’s Waldo? Join the Search Board Game has players racing to find Waldo and a whole slew of hidden objects on the beach, in the Wild West, or in outer space. The Where’s Waldo? Amazing Picture Hunt Board Game lets players create their own complex Waldo scene with the included 100 object chips for others to sift through. The Where’s Waldo? Assorted 2-in-1 Search and Find Puzzles need to be assembled before budding detectives can look for the man in the striped shirt. The puzzles come in 50-piece mini sets, 100-piece foil puzzles, and 500-piece suitcase puzzles, among other sizes. Where’s Waldo? Passport Covers feature a classic Waldo scene on the outside, and come with six search-and-find activity cards on the inside. They include two Where’s Waldo? postcards with classic book scenes, and are available in three styles. Where’s Waldo? Explorer Wands re-introduce the original searchand-find glitter wand play pattern. Tilt and turn the liquid-filled wands to search for Waldo and hidden items floating inside. The assortment includes an 11-inch wand and a four-inch wand with a carabiner clip. They are available in three styles: Waldo & Friends, Deep Sea Divers, and Wild, Wild West. Expanding its Toy Island puzzle portfolio, Techno Source will introduce a new line of adult puzzles featuring National Geographic photography. Available in 500, 750, and 1,000 pieces, the puzzle assortment at mass retail will center around four key themes: In the Wild, Natural Wonders, Monumental Marvels, and World Travel. Special themed lines of 1,500- and 2,000-piece puzzles will be introduced for the specialty market.

FEBRUARY 2012

Games & Puzzles Ravensburger’s Got Chuggington

avensburger introduces three new puzzles based on the animated series Chuggington. Chuggington: Bedtime is a super-sized, 24piece, glow-in-the-dark floor puzzle with a nighttime view of the trainfilled town and its three main characters—Wilson, Brewster, and Koko. Chuggington: End of Day is a 100-piece puzzle that also glows in the dark and features nighttime imagery. For the daytime, Chuggington: Busy Day is a 100-piece puzzle that depicts a scene of the town’s colorful and active train station. New 3-D building sets let puzzle solvers work in a more vertical format. The debut collection features 216-piece puzzles of the Empire State Building, a New England Lighthouse, the Eiffel Tower, and Big Ben. Electronic Labyrinth is among the newest game offerings from Ravensburger. It features an electronic book that has players searching for magic gems. Also new, Asara has gamers competing to see who can build the highest and most grand set of towers over four rounds.

Grill Your Friends with Asmodee

smodee’s new games lineup includes Fame Us, a game targeted at tweens who know their celebrities. The game challenges players to match a celebrity to a series of description cards placed in turn by each player. If you can’t match a description, bluff your way through it. But beware: there’s a twist. Each player chooses a card at the outset of the game that indicates what team they are on, but the player will not know who they’re playing with or against until the end of the game when the cards are revealed. For four to 10 players, ages 8 and up, each game takes approximately 15 minutes to play.

FEBRUARY 2012

Cardinal Soars with Angry Birds and More

ardinal has signed licenses for Angry Birds and Monster High puzzle lines. Angry Birds is the newest addition to Cardinal’s growing line of puzzles, and includes Super 3D boxed sets, as well as foil, lenticular, and wood puzzles. Monster High puzzles, licensed from Mattel, come in two varieties, a Super 3D Puzzle and a Foil Holographic Puzzle in a coffin-shaped package, featuring 150 pieces. Cardinal is also introducing a Minnie Mouse bow-shaped tin with three puzzles inside. The Big Bang Theory Fact or Fiction Trivia Game includes 400-plus questions designed to test players’ knowledge of the show, while they compete in rounds of “Rock, Paper, Scissor, Lizard, Spock.” Pretty Little Liars, the teen girls’ television show, is now a game with trivia and conversation-provoking questions for girls and their friends. Where Is Hello Kitty? and Duck Duck Move are two new get-upand-go games from Cardinal this year. Each game will have kids playing, moving, and laughing as they draw cards and use their whole house as a play area.

INI Has Players Thinking Fast

NI, LLC (Ideas Never Implemented) offers its line of I’ve Never games and Dabble, The Fast Thinking Word Game. Dabble, The Fast Thinking Word Game was developed by George Weiss, an 84year-old inventor. Each player selects 20 random tiles, and has five minutes to spell five words (a two-, three-, four-, five-, and six-letter word). If you’re struggling, you can discard any number of tiles, draw new ones, and try again. When a player completes the task by spelling all five words correctly, they receive the point totals from the unused letter tiles of all the other players. The first player to get 100 points wins.

FEBRUARY 2012

Games & Puzzles R&R Is Gettin’ Ready for Some Football

&R Games, Inc. is ready to launch its new 1st & Goal game, which pits two football teams in a classic gridiron match. Players choose teams from cities across the U.S. and Canada, taking the roles of coaches who call plays using the cards available in their hands. The yardage is determined by the roll of the dice and the combination of the plays called by the offense and the defense. The basic game is further augmented with six expansion divisions consisting of four unique teams. The game is for two to four players, ages 10 and up. R&R Games provides a website where hardcore R&R Football League players can run their own clubs and play a full season of games, including playoffs and season championships. Players using the website can track scores and statistics at all levels including team, division, and conference. To learn more about the RFL and all of the teams, visit www.rnrgames.com. R&R Games has created Hide and Seek Safari Junior as a plush variation of the original Hide and Seek Safari. To play this toddler-friendly game, press the button on the seeker wand and the animal will call out to you. The child must listen and follow the sounds of the animal in order to discover where it is hiding. The core Hide & Seek Safari Junior toys are a plush lion, a monkey, and an elephant, plus the new second edition dog, cat, cow, and panda.

Play, Create, and Collaborate with Briarpatch

lay, create, and collaborate with StoryPlay, PaintPlay, and ColorPlay from Briarpatch. Every game has several ways to play as well as fun activities for kids ages 5 and up. The StoryPlay game offers kids a way to create a story collage together, encouraging language development, creativity, and cooperation. Play together to create a piece of artwork in the PaintPlay game. Try to collect paint tokens but beware of eight “meanies” who want to steal players’ creative juices. The ColorPlay game includes three distinct games: Pattern It!, Shape It!, and Balance It!. Players reach into the Hocus Pocus hat and feel for the object they want to find in the I Spy Hocus Pocus Game. Cards show what players need to find just by feeling. Everyone can feel for the same thing, or players can switch it up and find as many I Spy objects as they can. It comes with six blank cards so players can customize with their own things to find. Help kids learn to skip-count with I Spy Ready to Count. Skip-counting is a skill kids develop in kindergarten. Start counting by twos and fives, and work up to counting by 10s and 20s. Mayhem is a new family game where players call out words that fit the category on the card. The words need to match the letters on the board. There are categories for kids and adults so it’s fun for the entire family. It can also be played as a party game. Crustacean Migration and Gecko Grab are games in carry-along boxes. In Crustacean Migration, collect three crabs by moving across the U.S., visiting tourist sites along the way. Fishermen abound to pull out the crabs and keep them from their destination. In Gecko Grab, be fast or be last, and don’t be left holding your cards. When a gecko is played, grab a plastic likeness. If a player is left without one, they get all the cards.

Gecko Grab

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There’s Always Room for Playroom

xperience specialized decks with the new Killer Bunnies and the Ultimate Odyssey Pre-Constructed Specialized Starters in two-player A/B, A/C, and A/D combos, from Playroom Entertainment. Each box contains two pre-constructed decks with a mix of starter and expansion deck cards. From the makers of Killer Bunnies comes an all new adventure—Psychic Penguins. The Penguins are on their voyage home, and your goal is to be the first player to send them off before your opponents do. There are items that you must gather, and opportunities to stop your foes. In Penalty Pong, your goal is to make your opponents do wacky and sometimes embarrassing tasks while avoiding having to do them yourself. Aim and throw, or bounce, the ball into your opponent’s cups. If you’re successful, they have to draw a penalty card and perform the task indicated on it. Playroom Entertainment announces the release of Vampires of the Night, the newest addition to the Three Magicians games line. The vampire hunter flew above the old castle and emptied a whole sack of garlic over the ruins. It is Leo Longtooth’s job to watch over the sleeping vampire children in the castle basement. With the aid of his bat, you can clear the garlic out of the castle without touching it, but can you help Leo clear the garlic without dropping it into the basement? Vampires of the Night can be played in the dark with the glow-inthe-dark 3-D board.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 173

Games & Puzzles Square Shooters Debuts New Rummy Game

odeo Rummy is a new game from Heartland Consumer Products, and features the patented Square Shooters dice. It offers a new spin on classic rummy games. In Rodeo Rummy, players use a spinner to determine which rummy hand they should try to roll with the dice. Players have three rolls of the dice to earn either a rummy set or a rummy run as assigned by their spin. Every spin brings a bonus or a penalty. And just like the original Square Shooters game, you can use the Square Shooters dice to invent your own dice version of rummy. Rodeo Rummy is designed for two or more players, ages 8 and up.

Gamewright Takes Action

amewright introduces Elephant’s Trunk. In the game, Emmet the Elephant is late for a trip and needs help packing. Take turns rolling the die and placing a piece of clothing into the matching colored trunk. But watch out for the sneaky mouse, who will try to dump out everything you just packed. Be the first to pack all of Emmet’s clothes and he might take you with him on vacation. Elephant’s Trunk takes approximately 15 minutes to play with two to four players, and is suited for preschoolers. Sparks fly in Zip Zap, a lightning-fast card game. Quickly rid your hand of cards by playing numbers in order. Lay down a run and consider yourself in the zone, but don’t get caught taking a break or another player will steal the lead. Be the first one out of cards to win. Play takes approximately 15 minutes with two to six players. Zip Zap is appropriate for ages 6 and up.

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FEBRUARY 2012

USAopoly Gets the Party Started

SAopoly’s Telestrations game will now be available in a party pack version that expands game play from eight to 12 players, and includes new content. In Telestrations 12 Player Party Pack—a modern twist on the classic “telephone” game—players pass around multiple words at once as everyone sketches and guesses at the same time. At the end, players get their own books back and share how “this” became “that.”

FEBRUARY 2012

Set Out for Fun with Outset Media

amily Charades in a Box is six games in one box. Picture Charades makes it easy for younger children to join in the game. The pictures are open to interpretation—no reading required. Kid’s Charades, for ages 7 and up, is easy to read and easy to act. Family Charades, for ages 8 and up, is slightly more challenging for the whole family. Animal Party Charades, for ages 10 and up, includes animal sayings. Hollywood Charades, for ages 12 and up, is full of clues from the world of entertainment and pop culture. Time Capsule Charades, for ages 14 and up, offers charades from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.

THE TOY BOOK • 175

Games & Puzzles Jakks Joins The Walking Dead

akks’ Plug It In and Play Games line will expand with the release of the zombie-filled Walking Dead Deluxe TV Game, based on the AMC TV series. Gamers can experience an outbreak firsthand with a pump-and-shoot shotgun controller through multiple levels of madness. Bringing touch-screen technology to its Plug It In and Play gaming systems, Jakks will now allow gamers to touch, drag, point, and tap along with its game releases. Just like with all of Jakks’ TV Games, the TV Games Touch games plug into the A/V jacks of any standard TV. The SpongeBob SquarePants TV Games Touch features puzzle games. The Star Wars TV Games Touch features classic jedi lightsaber battles. The SpiderMan TV Games Touch lets kids sling webs and bash the bad guys.

Catch a Word, with Fundex

nstructures is fast paced and interactive. Two “crews” race to build a structure with the blocks provided, but only the “foreman” gets to see the blueprint and direct their crew by using verbal instructions. Hand motions are not allowed. When the crew’s structure is complete, the foreman shouts, “Done!” and building inspection begins. If the structure passes, the team wins the round, rolls the die, and moves forward on the game board. The crew that reaches the “Done!” space first wins. Add on challenges like Silent Foreman, Memory Challenge, Blind Foreman, and Timed Challenge. In Catch Word, players race to be the first to spell words combining the consonants on their cards and the vowels on their colored die. The first player to call out a word wins the hand. The player with the most Catchword cards at the end of the game is the winner.

Kids and Toys Get Clever Together with Goliath Games

oliath Games, LLC introduces Sonny the Seal. Sonny the Seal is life-like in his movements, and each time you toss a ring around his neck he claps his flippers and barks. Goliath Games recently launched Wordsearch. Players must race to find a hidden word. The first to find the word squeezes the totem and puts their tokens over the letters of the word. The object of the game is to have the most colored tokens on the board after all the words are found. The game comes with 20 different puzzles that can be swapped out on the board. In Goggle Eyes, players advance around the board by getting their teammates to guess what they are drawing. The catch is that while you draw the item that your card has assigned, you are also wearing the crazy eye-goggling glasses. The game comes with three sets of changeable lenses that determine the difficulty level. Domino Rally was launched in the U.S. in the ’80s, and is back this year. The game has been retooled and redesigned. The Domino Rally launch in May will include four new pirate sets with new tricks and characters.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Spin Master Will Stomple You

pin Master Games introduces Volcano Island Countdown, the family game where everyone plays together as a team. Players win together or lose together in 30 minutes or less. Players race against the clock to find the four lost Guardian Totems. As the players explore the island, the evil Volcano Tiki stalks the path, trying to capture them. If they don’t return the Guardians to their shrines before the time runs out, the Volcano explodes and the Tiki wins. If the four Guardians are returned, the Tiki is banished back to its Volcano prison. In Fibber, kids play picture cards in order, and then tell everyone what they’re playing. If you don’t have the next card in order, you must play a different card—but don’t get caught fibbing, or your nose will grow. The shortest nose wins the game. With Stomple, once you start stomping, you won’t want to stop. Stomp your opponents’ marbles by pushing them through the board with your Stomper. Leave them trapped with no marVolcano Island bles to stomp, and you win. It’s an easy-to-learn, fast-playing strategy game for up to six players. Battle of the Sexes Enhanced Performance Edition reignites the age-old question: Which sex is superior, male or female? Put to the test everything you know about the opposite sex with all-new gender-specific pictures, trivia, challenges, and more. Do women know which football player snaps the ball? Can men tell you what makeup is applied with a wand? It’s your chance to challenge yourself on what you really know about the opposite sex.

Boys’ Jada’s Got a Skateboarding Dog

Toy Book Exclusive

xperience the Halo universe with Jada Toys’ new line of licensed Halo die-cast vehicles and figures. For the first time, vehicles featured in the Halo video game will be offered as authentic die-cast vehicles. The entire line is offered in a “unified approach” by developing all the vehicles in scale to one another, just like in the game. The line will feature vehicles and characters from the entire Halo universe, including the upcoming Halo 4 video game, launching for holiday 2012. Jada brings Buddy the Dog, an R/C skateboarding dog, into the feature plush category. This bulldog is cute on his own, or you can put him on his full-function R/C skateboard and watch him ride. Daisy the Dog is also available. Jada offers a new Battle Machines experience with Battle Machines Laser Combat Tag: Quad Racers. These quad bikes and figures feature full-function radio control, a three-hit scoring system, and the same styling that Battle Machines is known for. They work with all Battle Machines cars and trucks. Kids can battle up to six vehicles at once. Jada also introduces LoPro, the company’s latest line of die-cast collectibles. LoPro features popular styles in custom vehicles. Available with the 1:24-scale cars are two sets of rims, a tool, and extra axles. Extra rims can be displayed on the tire rack that is included in the package. Buddy the Dog

Zing Launches an Air Storm

ing Toys’s new Air Storm line gives kids five ways to play with foam ammo. The Z-X CrossBow has Power Swing technology. The bow arms pop open for action, and send super-soft suction cup Zartz flying. Pull the trigger to hit and stick targets from more than 45 feet away. Built-in ammo clips keep extra Zartz at the ready. Take aim with the Zip-Bak Bow, a long-range bow that sends foam arrows flying more than 95 feet. This compact shooter transforms for firing with Power Swing technology. Ready, aim, fire as the bow arms pop open for extra action and added punch. Soft foam Z-Arrows fly right on target, and feature bounce-back action. The Z-Curve Bow is the ultimate in long-range foam archery, blasting targets from more than 125 feet away. The Z-Curve Bow fires both foam Z-Arrows and Zartz. It includes a Zip Clip ammo holder to keep extra arrows at hand. The Zing Shot is a foam ball launcher. It’s a compact shooter with a quick shot. Load up with BlazeX Power Ballz and blast targets from more than 45 feet away. Prepare for take-off with Pop Rocketz. This pocket-sized, air-powered rocket launcher blasts foam rockets up to 50 feet. It is safe both indoors and out.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Boys’ ITC’s Got Street Shifters

rive, crash, transform, and battle with the new Street Shifters, from Interactive Toy Concepts. Street Shifters is a series of remote-controlled vehicles that magically transform into a “beast” upon impact and maintain full R/C control in “beast mode.” The series consists of four vehicles that transform into their own unique battle beast. Street Shifters are recommended for ages 6 and up.

Tech-Savvy Playtime with Silverlit

ilverlit’s original 3D Twister is a compact R/C vehicle capable of fast speeds, two-sided driving, and big air stunts, flips, and jumps. Its 2.4 GHz technology allows for real-time crash feedback through the remote and constant communication between the car and remote. The company’s new 3D Twister: Future Force is a two-sided indoor racer. This infrared-based R/C vehicle is built for indoor racing, fast speeds, two-sided driving, and big air stunts, flips, and jumps. It is designed for ages 5 and up. Become the rescue commander with Silverlit’s RC Youniverse Rescue Line Series, or the construction site commander with the Construction Line Series. Each line features interactive R/C vehicle sets that allow you to take control of the action. The Rescue Line features a police car, fire truck, ambulance, and Rescue Command Center. The Construction Line features a bulldozer, dump truck, trailer truck, and crane play set. All units light up, feature sound effects, and can be controlled from a single interchangeable radio hand set. Each vehicle is sold separately. The Construction Line set can also be purchased as a full set, which includes all of the vehicles and a play set. Silverlit’s RC Youniverse is recommended for ages 4 and up. Experience the Amazing Spider-Man Action Quad. This full-function R/C works for both indoor and outdoor play, and on all terrain surfaces. A posed Spider-Man sculpt sits in the driver’s seat. The Amazing Spider-Man Trike features spinning stunt action. The full-function R/C control works for both inIron Man R/C Trike door and outdoor play. A dynamic, posed Spider-Man sculpt relief sits in the driver’s seat. With the Amazing Spider-Man Mini Quads, Spider-Man takes on Lizard, and each character comes on his own styled quad. The quads feature full-function IR control—forward, backward, right, and left. Mini Quads measure four inches in length, and retail individually or as a twin pack. Take to the skies like an Avenger with the Outdoor R/C Quinjet from the movie. This turbo prop jet uses radio control for outdoor control, and features great flight stability and control, even for new flyers. The Iron Man R/C Trike is a detailed, fixed Iron Man figure posed on a 12-inch trike. It has full-function control, with power spin action for 360-degree turns. Captain America rides into action on his Captain America Motorbike. The detailed, fixed figure is posed on a 12-inch motorbike. It features multi-direction control in two modes, speeder and wheelie.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Tech 4 Kids Releases Marvel and Angry Birds Products

ech 4 Kids launches the wrist-shooting action game Amazing Spider-Man Splat Strike, based on the upcoming The Amazing Spider-Man movie. Begin by throwing the sticky wall crawlers against any wall. Then load the launcher with the Sticky Spider Shots and fire away to knock the wall crawlers off before they reach the ground. With Angry Birds Splat Strike, launch the sticky red bird to splat and stick to any hard surface, or shoot the pigs onto the target to collect points and win. For ages 6 and up, the game comes with a SlingShot, three Sticky Red Bird shots, and a hanging target. Mashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ems, the new collectibles featuring Marvel Universe and Angry Birds characters, is a squish, squeeze, and launch toy. Mashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ems Series 1 features 12 Marvel Universe characters made of dual-layer TPR rubber, which allows for removable layers on special characters, and six Angry Birds characters. Series 1 characters are Venom, Iron Man, Black Spider-Man, Silver Surfer, Hulk, War Machine, Thing, Green Goblin, Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, and Wolverine. Series 2 will be released later this year.

Boys’ Gyroscopic Ratchet & Clank Heli-Pack

NKOK Speeds Ahead

KOK’s new line of licensed radio-controlled, die-cast, and battery-operated vehicles will feature Sonic, Scooby Doo, and Ratchet & Clank. NKOK will also preview radio-controlled collectibles featuring the vehicles and characters from Sony Computer Entertainment America’s vehicle combat game, Twisted Metal, in conjunction with the franchise’s new release. With NKOK’s new radio-controlled Axel and Sweet Tooth’s Ice Cream Truck, gamers will be able to join Sweet Tooth in a contest of vehicle combat skill and destruction. Fly the new infrared-controlled Gyroscopic Ratchet & Clank Heli-Pack and bring your favorite Lombax and his sidekick, Clank the Robot, to life. Mean Machines are NKOK’s off-road trucks that include Ford and Ram in 1:10-, 1:16-, and 1:24-scale sizes. NKOK will unveil its all-new rock crawling, 1:10-scale hobby-style trucks, offered with a four-wheel drive chassis, driven by a 7.2-volt Ready to Run battery pack. The Rock Crawling Truck series has a full independent suspension, soft TPR tires with aggressive tread pattern, and low-torque gearing. The lightweight Lexan bodies are offered in the Ram 2500 Power Wagon, Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, and F-250 Super Duty styles. NKOK’s line of Halo radio-controlled vehicles will be expanded to include a new Reach Ghost radio-controlled vehicle with an Elite Minor action figure and an infrared-controlled flying Falcon, as well as off-road Reach “Rocket” Warthog with Noble 6 & Emile. Discovery Kids is the “real world” brand for kids. NKOK Discovery Kids items include the new Build Your Own Radio Control 4x4, which teaches kids the fundamentals of what goes into making a vehicle operate in a fun, easy-to-learn play pattern. The fast-paced Space Ship Laser Tag game teaches kids reflexes and accuracy, while each Spaceship lights up, makes shooting sounds, and vibrates with each direct hit. The new motion-controlled Saber Wand U.S. Coast Guard Helicopter teaches new skills with just the flex of your wrist to make it fly. NKOK will also expand its line of Air Banditz flying, radio-controlled helicopters. The first line of metal 3.5CH gyroscopic helicopters, Air Banditz will use the latest in technology, offering applications for Apple and Android systems to fly specific models. They will also introduce a new video/camera model that includes an SD Card for easy downloads. NKOK also launches its “Seal Team 6” Sikorsky PaveHawk. This gyro radio-controlled helicopter comes with multiple remote firing missiles with targets. Urban Ridez is NKOK’s co-branded licensed radio-controlled cars. They are offered in 1:10-, 1:16-, and 1:24-scale vehicles under the umbrella of Dodge Viper, Challenger, ’70 Dodge Charger, Ford Mustang, and Ford GT. The RTR 1:10 scale has a hobby-style Lexan body, low profile rims, and tires with LED lights illuminating the chassis. “Seal Team 6” Sikorsky PaveHawk

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FEBRUARY 2012

The Maya Group Hits the Pavement

he Maya Group’s Max Tech brand is revving up with the introduction of the Super X Moto. The R/C motorcycle comes with a dual-purpose ramp for kids to attempt backflips or long jumps.

Tree House Kids Has Superheroes on a Micro Scale

ree House Kids expands on its Heroics line of miniature figurines with figures based on Marvel’s The Avengers, The Amazing SpiderMan, and The Dark Knight Rises. As with the classic lines, these detailed, fully painted, collectible figurines will come blind packaged in an assortment of colorful balls. In addition to lines dedicated to the summer movie properties, all-new waves of classic Marvel and DC characters will be available in the fall. Heroics Armed Forces is a complete line of figurines and vehicles that portray modern soldiery and vehicles on a micro scale, bringing the classic play of army men into the 21st century. Transforming play sets will round out the assortment. The company will also introduce Micro Vehicles. These custom-designed vehicles incorporate the look and powers of the Marvel Superheroes, and include hidden features in miniature form. THK is also rolling out play sets in various sizes based on the Marvel Universe, and compatible with the Micro Vehicles. Amphibious R/C ATV Tree House Kids brought a new twist to radio control in the past couple of years by incorporating figure play and fullscale R/C play sets, with trucks and ATVs that can tow trailers and have opening doors and real rubber tires. For 2012, the company introduces the new Amphibious R/C ATV, a six-wheel vehicle that works on both land and water. It is able to hold two action figures, and has additional storage space for gear.

Boys’ Toy Fair Coverage Continues on Page 280 FEBRUARY 2012

The Voice Reaching Both Trade and Consumers

CONTACT: JONATHAN SAMET OR LAURIE SCHACHT ADVENTURE PUBLISHING GROUP 307 7TH AVENUE, SUITE 1601 NEW YORK, NY 10001 TEL: 212-575-4510 FAX: 212-575-4521 WWW.ADVENTUREPUB.COM

FEBRUARY 2012

T HE D EFINITIVE I NFORMATION S OURCE

FOR THE

T OY

AND

G IFT M ERCHANT

It Always Comes Back to Value hile the toy industry was down 4 percent in 2011, mainly due to the economy (what else is new?), toy manufacturers, retailers, and industry experts tell me that it’s not necessarily low prices that consumers are looking for, it’s value. While a low price will grab attention, all interest fades if the toy doesn’t appear to have lasting play value. Parents are understandably frustrated when their child loses interest in a toy 10 minutes after they open it, even if it was a great price. The Michael Cohen Group conducted a survey (page 30) about what happens after a toy gets home, and the results are mind boggling. Some toys don’t get played with at all, and others are only played with once. Retailers are reporting that higher price point toys were selling this holiday season (check out our industry Q&A beginning on page 44), and they indicated that while consumers were still spending on toys for their kids, they were definitely looking for value. As specialty retailers and manufacturers, you understand the importance of play value in a product, and that many consumers are not looking for a one-trick pony. This desire for play value and toys that last might help explain why the building sets category was up 33 percent over 2010, after being up 9 percent the year prior, according to The NPD Group. Building sets is a

FEBRUARY 2012

category geared toward the imagination. They can be played with endlessly without ever building the same thing twice. Recently, there was some concern surrounding the launch of Lego’s pink, girl-focused building line. Personally, I think it’s a brilliant idea. Mega Brands offers building sets for girls, as do many construction toy companies. Getting girls interested Jackie Breyer, in building sets is a win-win situation. It’s just aneditor in chief other option. My 5-year-old niece was excited about the new Legos, and she wasn’t interested in building sets at all before, so that’s saying something. Find a niche, and fill it. Successful retailers and manufacturers figure out what kids want and provide it. ●

ON THE COVER: HAPE’S POUND AND TAP BENCH IS A COLORFUL IN-

STRUMENT THAT COMBINES POUNDING BALLS AND TAPPING OUT

TUNES. POUND AND TAP MEASURES 9.45 X 5.91 X 5.31 INCHES. FOR INFORMATION ABOUT

HAPE’S 2012 INTRODUCTIONS, SEE PAGE S8.

SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS

Toy Safety 2012

ASTRA’S INSIGHTS

Keeping Up with New Regulations by Kathleen McHugh, president, American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) hile the rest of the world was celebrating, toasting, and singing “Auld Lang Syne” at midnight on New Year’s Eve, the toy industry was marking significant changes in federal toy safety regulations. The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) continues to track and communicate information that our members must know to make effective business decisions related to toy safety. This issue is ongoing, and our manufacturer members in particular need to be aware of phased-in federal requirements. For example, as of January 1, the stay of enforcement was lifted on key areas of the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). Third-party testing by a Consumer Products Safety Commission–accepted laboratory is required to confirm and issue a certification that banned phthalates, lead over 100 parts per million (ppm), and lead paint over 90 ppm are not present in children’s products. More regulatory changes will phase in over time. For example, manufacturers and importers will be required to have a periodic testing plan in place by February 8, 2013. A number of resources about current and upcoming regulations are available to manufacturers and others in the toy industry. Here are a few: ASTRA maintains CPSIA information as it becomes available, and posts it on the members-only portion of its website. A tool that allows members to post relevant CPSIA articles is also available. Member manufacturers can find a copy of the law, a recall handbook, frequently asked questions for small businesses, and more at www.astratoy.org.

Information Available from ASTRA

The latest available information is typically posted on the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website at www.cpsc.gov. For consumers, the CPSC has created the “publicly available Consumer

Government Websites

SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS

Product Safety Information Database” at www.saferproducts.gov. This website allows the public to report a putatively unsafe product, and search a recall database. CPSC includes the caveat that it “does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents” of information posted by the public. Manufacturers are encouraged to register on this site so they can monitor and respond to unsubstantiated reports about their products, and to see complaints and comments about complaints. On November 29, Neal Cohen, small business ombudsman at CPSC, presented a webcast for ASTRA members titled “Manufacturers of Children’s Toys: What Do I Need to Know and Do by December 31, 2011.” The webinar gives a summary of current and upcoming regulatory changes. It can be accessed on the CPSC website at www.cpsc.gov/webcast/previous.html.

ASTRA Webinar by CPSC’s Small Business Ombudsman

The CPSC is renewing its emphasis on strategic outreach and education to toy industry stakeholders. As more information becomes available, ASTRA will share the latest with its members. In the meantime, here is a quick list of websites where you can source information about specific toy safety topics: • For general information about implementation of CPSIA, visit cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html. • For specific information about CPSIA as it relates to toys, check out cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/sect106.html. • For a list of banned phthalates, visit cpsc.gov/phthalates. • For information about lead content, go to cpsc.gov/lead. • For a list of CPSC-accepted labs, visit cpsc.gov/labsearch. • For information about testing and certificates, visit cpsc.gov/3pt. • For information about small-batch producers, visit cpsc.gov/smallbatch. • For information about age determination, visit cpsc.gov/sbo. • For information on tracking labels for children’s products, see cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/sect103.html. ●

FEBRUARY 2012

Specialty

Toy Book Exclusive

Hansa Offers a Ride on a Dragon

he Year of the Dragon has the potential to be magical and mythical, and has links to both power and wealth. The newest creation in the HANSA Fantasy Collection is the Red Dragon, which symbolizes the fifth sign of the Chinese Zodiac. The soft-sculpture Red Dragon is made with a strong, lightweight steel frame, and is capable of being ridden by children and adults up to 150 lbs.

Watch Skills Take Shape, with Edushape

Toy Book Exclusive

offers toys that identify which developmental skills they develop. Edushape has concentrated on eight categories of developmental skills, so consumers can make informed decisions about how Edushape toys will benefit children. The information is equally important for children with and without special needs. The Edu-Fit Mega Pack is a baby fitness center. It is designed to develop baby’s fine and gross motor skills while strengthening core muscles. My First Ball is a soft fabric ball that opens like an orange with different textures, patterns, and colors, and has a mirror in the connected wedges. The Edu-Training Mat is baby’s first workout mat. It is soft and colorful with a baby-safe mirror that promotes head lifting as well as neck and upper body strength. Edu-Weights is a set of two weight shakers with an integrated baby-safe mirror, rattle, and various textured fabrics. The Power Stretch includes a baby-safe mirror reflecting a peek-a-boo star, sun, and moon. Pull the handle for vibrations or shake the toy for sounds. It is designed with various textured fabrics, colors, and patterns. The Handy Bells Display Pack has 24 brightly colored, assorted jumbo stainless steel bell rattles with three non-removable Jumble Bells on each rattle. Create that classic whooping sound that’s so familiar in cartoons and children’s movies, with the Puppy Slide Flute. Learn agility and consequence with the Sensory Balance Toy. Children add one piece at a time to stack shapes as high as they can without tipping them over. DUSHAPE

Edu-Fit collection

SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS

FEBRUARY 2012

Specialty

Enticing Edutainment, from Learning Resources

earn about quantity with the Primary Science Mix & Measure Set, from LEARNING RESOURCES. The scale, bowl, three self-standing spoons, and six unique cup designs are contoured for little hands and help children visualize quantities as they make paint, play with slime and goo, and more. Activity cards are included. This set of 12 pieces is designed for ages 4 and up. Pop together frozen treats to match uppercase and lowercase letters with Smart Snacks Alpha Pops. The pops are double-sided to include all 26 letters. This 13-piece set is designed to enhance color recognition, fine motor skills, and imaginative play in kids ages 2 and up.

sive u l y c x E o T ok Bo

Primary Science Mix & Measure Set

Hape Brings Bamboo to Playtime

APE signature products are made of bamboo and colored with water-based paints. The company’s Italian-designed vehicle line includes

three new styles: the e-chopper, the e-superbike, and the e-drifter. The Magnetic Animals and Magnetic Vehicles are two different sets of themed mosaic pieces with a lap-sized magnetic board. Hape’s Super Moose is a building and balancing game that requires a steady hand. It can be played both alone or as a group. Players of Quattro take turns planting by putting the colored bamboo rings on the shoots to connect four rings of the same color. The Baby Gym, part of Hape’s Happy Baby collection, encourages baby to participate in a host of brain- and sensory-building activities. The Rainbow and Lawnmover are both push and pull toys that aim to keep a child’s feet in motion and imagination churning. Two Little Friend Rattles and the Early Melodies Little Drummer will also be released. Young builders with big ideas can work with the Fix It Tool Box or on the Master Workbench, which features adjustable height. Budding bakers may prefer the Pancakes set, the Hamburgers and Hot Dogs set, or the Gingerbread Baking Set, which includes a rolling pin, cookie cutters, and “dough” made from felt. Countdown, Moon Walker, and Ring-Around-a-Rosy are new bead and wire mazes. The Happy Family set includes grandpa, grandma, mom, dad, sister, and brother, four of which can go for a spin in the Family Car, which has elasticized door hinges and a sporty design. Hape will also introduce 11 new Early Explorer toys, including farm- and zoo-themed Mix and Match Games, an Animals Memory Game, Stacking Jack, Stacking Jill, and a Balance Boat. Two new Beleduc games, Cloud Matchmaker and Topsy Towers, along with two wood block puzzles, an alphabet puzzle, and durable Mighty Shovels round out the preschool collection. Super Moose

SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS

FEBRUARY 2012

Elf Help with Elf Magic

n 2011, Elf Magic Elves expanded their wardrobe selection with new Forever Elf Fashions. Elves wear these new “Elfits” during their annual holiday trips from the North Pole. The new Team Hockey Elfit comes with a screenprinted red “00” jersey, a red helmet, and a pair of black ice skates with white laces and faux silver blades. The Arctic Play Elfit is a sky blue Arctic jacket with a zipper closure, lined in soft green Polartec fabric. The set also comes with blue waterproof snowboard pants, a white snowflake shirt, green Polartec mittens, a green Polartec hat with pompom, and a pair of black boots with closures. Twirls & Swirls Elfit is a Funky Chic four-piece set that comes with a blue skating dress edged with Elfit faux fur; snowy white leggings; a blue headband with white fluffy earmuffs; and a pair of white ice skates with a faux fur accent, snowball pompoms, and a silver faux blade. Elves will be warm in the Jolly Holiday Robe & Slippers Elfit plush red robe set. This Elfit comes with a red robe trimmed with white corduroy and an embroidered Elf Magic snowflake, and a pair of snowman slippers with a snowman face, earmuffs, and a Santa hat. The Funky Chic Elfit six-piece set comes with black velour leggings, a jumper with colorful faux buttons and trim, a yellow long-sleeved shirt, a zebra print scarf, a matching pocketbook, and black suede boots with a faux sheepskin trim. The three-piece Wintry Wonder Elfit comes with a red coat edged with fluffy faux fur, a red satin bow, and two Elf Magic snowflakes; a pair of white suede boots trimmed with faux fur; and a red hat with furry accents and a snowball pompom. The Snowy Night Princess Elfit is a ball gown with a black velour bodice that cascades into a black-and-white dotted overlay skirt. Tie the look together with the included white satin ribbon at the waist and pair it with the Wintry Wonder Elfit jacket set. Keep track of Elfits with the SnowCase. Inside, there’s plenty of space to hang Elfits. The new Believe in the Magic Washcloth magically expands from its compressed puck shape into a full-sized washcloth when introduced to water. Before laying down for a long winter’s nap, Santa’s Elves can partake in Elf Magic-customized games such as Snowball Fights, Merry Matchup, and Candy Canes with the new Elf Magic Pick an Elf Playing Cards.

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Go a Round or 2 with Captain Action

aptain Action, the hero from the 1960s, returns to the modern day, thanks to a partnership between Captain Action Enterprises, ROUND 2, and Marvel. This 11.5-inch figure is a detailed and updated version of the classic character, and features an all-new posable body, a cloth costume, and crime fighting equipment. He comes in a retro collector’s box. Fans can accessorize Captain Action with official Marvel Comics costume sets. Wave 1 features Spider-Man and Captain America, and Wave 2 features Thor and Loki. Each costume set comes with accurate accessories. Dr. Evil, an alien with an exposed brain (and Captain Action’s old arch-nemesis), will return in July as part of Wave 2. Dr. Evil will assume the identities of villains such as Thor’s brother, Loki, and the Red Skull, via costume sets. This evil alien comes with three interchangeable brains: a battle brain, a brilliant brain, and a bionic brain. The exclusive Toys “R” Us versions of Captain Action and Dr. Evil each come with a collector’s item comic book. The deluxe versions, available at comic shops nationwide, come with bonus accessories to assemble the Avenger Hawkeye. Comic legend Joe Jusko is providing the Dr. Evil illustration for the packaging.

Dr. Evil

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Specialty Anamalz Makes Its Toy Fair Debut

ustralian-based ANAMALZ brings its handcrafted poseable Anamalz to American International Toy Fair for the first time, showing off its latest box sets in animal kingdom themes of wild, farm, jungle, and prehistoric. Designed for ages 3 and up, this line of ecofriendly wooden toys consists of 38 figures to collect, as well as accessories, including a play mat, barn house, and tree house. An added online experience awaits Anamalz owners. Click on the “online play” link at www.anamalzna.com (Anamalz of North America), and enter the password printed on the Anamalz hangtag. There, kids can animate their new pal, download wallpaper, and play games available only to owners. Kids can also find tips on improving their environment, and send feedback to the toymakers.

Wild Anamalz

Workman Shows Kids That Glasses Are Cool

he new book by Barney Saltzberg, Arlo Needs Glasses, from WORKMAN PUBLISHING, is an interactive, illustrated, pop-up book about a dog who needs glasses because he can’t see the ball when playing fetch. The book comes with a pair of glasses for kids to wear while reading the book. The goal is to teach kids that glasses are cool, fun, and enable us to do anything we want. Workman is also redesigning its BrainQuest decks, and has re-written the content to reflect the core curriculum.

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Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta’s a Hit

atherine Dines, a songwriter, recording artist, and teacher, has been making engaging music for children since 1992. She debuts her new CD, Hunk-TaBunk-Ta Hits, at Toy Fair. The whole HUNK-TA-BUNK-TA collection of 11 CDs, with various themes appropriate for babies up to fifth graders, has been redesigned with new cover art and eco-packaging that sports a new series moniker: “HunkTa-Bunk-Ta: Music for Growing Families.”

FEBRUARY 2012

The Sun Is No Match for Mogo

OGO DESIGN releases a new line of sunglasses called Mogo Shades, which come in four neon colorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;pink, green, turquoise, and orange. Sixteen themed charm collections will be available so girls can customize their look.

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Play Your Way Thin, with Eat to Win

at healthy, exercise, and learn about nutrition while having fun. EAT TO WIN brings all of these elements into board games for the entire family. A travel version is also available.

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Specialty OWI Multiplies the Building Fun by Seven

he 7-in-1 Rechargeable Solar Transformers, new to OWI’s RobotiKits line of construction sets, are made of snap plastic parts, a solar panel, and accessories. The seven different modules include five different vehicles and two power-charging stations with outlet plugs for solar charging and battery charging. After activating the fuel cell module with a salt water mixture, the Salt Water Fuel Cell Giant Arachnoid powers up and scurries away. The kit was designed to show children firsthand how a more effective utilization of our natural resources can be applied. The spider can operate for five to seven hours on one salt water charge. Likewise, the Salt Water Fuel Cell Monster Truck is equipped with fourwheel drive and two transformable engine types: V engine and flat engine. Each monster wheel can change its angle individually, and the truck itself can change height and shape. The truck’s transparent casing allows young builders the chance to see the rhythm of the piston in vertical or horizontal position.

Salt Water Fuel Cell Monster Truck

GrandCamp Adventures Continues the Journey

nown for closing the gap between grandchildren and grandparents, GRANDCAMP ADVENTURES offers a host of multimedia products. Here We Go! Around the World Family Adventure Story Book is an illustrated story about grandparents and grandkids who go on an adventure around the globe with the assistance of Papa’s magical compass. Along the way, Savannah, Luca, Aidan, and their “Pa-Parents” get to know one another as they discover faraway lands and traditions, breach castle walls, survive a brush with quicksand, and meet a stowaway meerkat. While listening to the Here We Go! music CD, grandparents and grandkids will hear pirates singing in their search for treasure and join in a chorus about family with a mob of meerkats. From blues to bluegrass to reggae, and even a lullaby, the CD features 10 songs that cover a broad spectrum of musical genres to appeal to all ages. Create your own grandparent/grandchild secret handshake with the guidance of 24 handshake cards in Shake It Up!. Kids can begin their stuffed animal collection with the entire Meerkat GrandCamper Family. The plush toys are a reminder of the adventures, and can serve as travel companions for adventures yet to come. Longbeard’s Treasure Hunt was especially created for grandparents and grandkids. The easy-toset-up activity includes a twist. The Longbeard’s Treasure Hunt activity features a note from the pirate himself as well as treasure maps, clues, coins, and special action cards. MeerKat GrandCamper Family

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FEBRUARY 2012

You Otter Have Tea with BeginAgain

oin the BEGINAGAIN Tea Otter for a beverage party. The soft, natural rubber Tea Otter floats, holding a cup and saucer on its tummy. Designed for play in and out of water, the beverage set serves four friends, and is made in the U.S. from 100-percent recycled plastic. A compact nesting design allows for easy clean up and storage. This play set features a lemonade style pitcher with a lid, four cups and saucers, and a Tea Otter character. It is designed for ages 3 and up.

Start a Family with The Rose Cottage, from BigJigs

he Rose Cottage, from BIGJIGS, expands to reveal four fully furnished rooms along with a hinged roof to the attic. Complete with functional doors and windows incorporating a sliding patio door at the back, The Rose Cottage includes six dolls so kids can start to play and create a family right away. It is designed for kids ages 3 and up.

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Specialty Be a Shape Explorer, with Happy bvba

appy Cube XL, from HAPPY BVBA, is a set of six extra large Happy Cubes. The box includes a booklet with 101 challenges in three levels. In Explorer, you make cubes with one color and put them back into their frames. A Builder makes 3-D constructions one way with multiple colors. An Architect constructs multi-color masterpieces in several directions.

Green Toys Provides Eco-Friendly Fun

TOYS introduces a new lineup of eco-friendly products made in the U.S. Watch healthy eating habits sprout with the Green Toys Salad Set. Toss lettuce and veggies, then top with a dash of dressing or salt and pepper for the greenest salad around. In this 20-piece stackable set, each realistic part is made from food-safe, 100-percent recycled plastic milk containers. Sized for Green Toys kitchen sets and interchangeable with other Green Toys play food products, the Salad Set includes a serving bowl, a salad plate, two serving utensils, three lettuce leaves, three sets of cucumbers, two tomatoes, two red peppers, onions, mushrooms, and fold-your-own oil and vinegar and salt and pepper. The set is dishwasher safe and appropriate for kids ages 2 and up. With the Green Toys Build-a-Bouquet, budding florists can create their own floral arrangements with flowers made from 100-percent recycled plastic milk jugs. This brightly colored 44-piece set includes four bases, 16 stem and leaf pieces, and 24 flower pieces. The lilies, petunias, and daisies stack interchangeably on the assorted stems. It is appropriate for ages 2 and up. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ambulance, police car, taxi, or red Fastback, the Green Toys Mini Vehicles are made from 100-percent recycled plastic milk jugs. There are no metal axles or external coatings, making the vehicles suitable for ages 1 and up. The Green Toys Tool Set includes a tool box, a Phillips screwdriver, a flat screwdriver, a hammer, a saw, a wrench, pliers, two two-hole connectors, two nails, two bolts, and two nuts. The tool kit is suitable for ages 2 and up, and comes in both pink and blue. Build a castle or dig for buried treasure with the Green Toys Sand Kit. The kit has four pieces, including a bucket, a shovel, a rake, and a sand castle mold. For ages 18 months and up, the Sand Kit comes in pink and blue. Green Toys Mini Fastbacks are palm-sized cars, available in red, blue, green, and yellow. The two-door coupes are high-design and low-emission, with a classic sloping roofline, racing stripes, and no metal axles. The Fastbacks are safe for ages 1 and up. The Green Toys Pink Dump Truck is ready for any task, hauling sand and rocks or dolls and diamonds with ease. This durable, eco-friendly rig is both safe and stylish, with no metal axles and has a workable purple dumper. It is appropriate for ages 1 and up. A Green Toys School Bus is also available. REEN

Green Toys Build-a-Bouquet

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FEBRUARY 2012

UBELE’s

Bubele Cuddles Up with Patch Buddies

new plush toy line, Patch Buddies, combines a cuddly toy, soft blanket, and functional backpack as a toy and storage solution. Bubele’s Patch Buddies is a division of G&S IMPEX, and the line is made for 2- to 7-year-olds. The line includes 10 animals and four special character toys. Each collectible toy fits inside an opening in the backpack, displaying the toy. The characters and backpacks are available in four colors, and each character has its own personality, such as the adventurous Panda, the funny Bunny, and the rambunctious special characters Bruno and P-Jay.

Kaskey Kids Plays Hockey

ew from KASKEY KIDS, INC., the NHL Hockey Guys are action figure sets of the six original NHL teams. Each action figure set includes up to 30 total pieces—including two full teams, a field, accessories, and a storage container—that allow a child to recreate games. These action figures can also serve as a visual teaching aid for youth.

Dark Horse and Domo Go Groovy

ew four-inch Domo vinyl figures, from DARK HORSE COMICS, come in a range of seven colors, but with a twist—each features a variety of fluorescent colors that glow under a black light. Also new this year, Dark Horse’s Qee Series 4 is a set of 15 figures that arrive in a mystery box. Domo Vinyl figures

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Specialty

Interactive Toys from The Learning Journey International

arly Learning on the Go Fire Truck, from THE LEARNING JOURNAL INTERNATIONAL, is an interactive, freewheel Fire Truck with a working ladder that moves up and down and rotates 360 degrees. It also has interactive buttons that play sounds and melodies. Chopper the Number Remote Control Copter guides a child through learning colors and numbers. Chopper has three play modes (Learn Colors, Numbers, and Find It!) that are played by simply inserting the plastic numbers into their proper slots. Count & Learn ATM Machine will guide a child through the grown-up world of banking. With three play modes and five different coin values, it encourages kids to go to the bank, count coins, and determine values. The Techno Gears Marble Mania Sidewinder high-tech construction set includes 230 pieces to build and create an introductory marble and gear run. Sidewinder includes a hand crank to move the marbles through the spiral lifter to the top of the twisting and turning tracks.

Guidecraft Showcases Storyboxes

he exclusive Steve Light Storyboxes, from GUIDECRAFT, help budding scholars discover a new approach to developing language skills and the art of storytelling. Popular fairy tales and folktales from around the world are now story boxes containing stylized characters and props, as well as booklets that retell the stories in Steve’s own words. Users can be true to the original story lines or add their own twist. Each story box designed by teacher, author, and illustrator Steve Light includes hand-painted resin pieces and other unique props. Guidecraft’s durable Plywood Trucks are available in a variety of styles, including a fire engine, a front loader, a Desk-to-Easel Art Cart dump truck, and a garbage truck. Each vehicle features plywood construction, bold colors with natural accents, and rubber, non-skid wheels. The Desk-to-Easel Art Cart can be positioned as an upright, angled easel or a folded-down, flat workspace. The cart features easy-toclean laminated surfaces with a writeon/wipe-off surface. It has a paper roll on one side of the easel and a chalkboard on the opposite side. There is plenty of storage for supplies. A paper roll, five paint cups, and side clips for artwork are included.

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Early Learning on the Go Fire Truck

Tuneville’s Interactive Beat

HE TUNEABLES interactive DVD/CD series teaches the fundamentals of music to young children. Through the world of Tuneville, characters encourage children to participate in songs and activities that provide rhythm, tonal, and voice development, establishing a base for future music learning.

FEBRUARY 2012

Specialty

Creative Education of Canada Dresses Up

e a King with a cape and crown made of a durable, heavy material that is machine washable and made for play from CREATIVE EDUCATION OF CANADA. The cape attaches at the neck and features an “ermine” trim. Marie Antoinette is an embellished addition to the “haute couture” collection, and has a stiff gold collar, boning, a full underskirt, a taffeta bustle, and metallic gold lace. The lilac Musketeer Dress is a second addition to the company’s “haute couture” collection, with gold bows, a full skirt, and a mask. The Medieval Princess Dress is being re-released this year in size XSM for 2- to 3-year-old princesses. With two layers of stiff tulle, a deluxe satin skirt, and a stretch velour top, this dress offers sizing flexibility. Also releasing is a new pirate skirt and hat, pirate top, and pirate set for the Pirate Collection. All items are machine washable and can be combined with the company’s pirate accessory collection for a complete look. The company’s Baby Bat Cape is a redesign of the original Bat Cape to fit youngsters. This velour cape is washable and fits over clothes, coats, or sleepwear.

Pirate Collection

Educational Insights Teaches Habits for Being Happy

reated by the authors of the best-selling 7 Habits series, EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS’ 7 Habits of Happy Kids Game introduces seven kid-friendly principles for personal happiness. Players work their way around the board together, read anecdotes, share personal responses, and listen to one another. The Magic Moves Electronic Wand has 90 physical commands, light shows, and 26 musical styles to get little ones moving. The Magic Moves Electronic Wand promotes creative movement, gross motor skills, and physical activity. It also helps users develop listening skills and the ability to follow directions, while enriching vocabulary. Trap your opponent in Nowhere to Go, a step-by-step strategy game for two. Take turns blocking paths and crossing bridges until one player is completely cornered. Rhyme Out is a triple-rhyming, family-friendly card game for all ages. It includes 600 questions in two levels, and is designed for three or more players. Grab your spatula and get ready to play BBQ Blitz. The game includes a barbecue gameboard, 16 burgers with four different toppings, 12 buns, four paper plates, and four spatulas. The GeoSafari Talking Planetary Mat is an interactive way to demonstrate the changing forces of gravity on the different planets in our solar system. The mat features all eight planets and the moon, as well as recorded facts to help kids understand gravity, weight, mass, and basic astronomy. Choose a bug and drop it into the GeoSafari Jr. Talking Bug Net to hear 100 bug facts and quiz questions. Then listen as the Talking Bug Net asks players questions using the facts they learned.

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FEBRUARY 2012

CandyRific’s Got Scooby

goes classic with new licensed products. Products include a Star Wars Classic 12-inch Gumball Dispenser with Gumballs, in Darth Vader & Darth Maul styles, available March 1 in limited quantities. The Scooby Doo 12-inch Gumball Dispenser with Gumballs will be available on or around July 1. ANDYRIFIC

Beeline Creative Gets Funny

EELINE CREATIVE brings a new line of Three Stooges items to retail in the spring. New collectibles include tin lunch boxes, nesting dolls, and the first-ever Larry, Moe, and Curly Talking Bobbleheads. The bobbleheads are made from poly-resin, and feature a likeness of each of the Three Stooges. Each speaks several phrases. The bobbleheads will be sold separately, and stand approximately 8.5 inches tall.

MyKaZoo Caters to Kids

armer Jason, a family music artist, will release a new collection of original songs and music videos on a brand new music label, MYKAZOO MUSIC through Universal Music Enterprises. Nature Jams features guest appearances from top artists, and will be the debut release from the new label. MyKaZoo TV, a new 24/7 interactive kids’ entertainment channel, will premiere additional music videos based on these songs. Nature Jams is a package of 16 original songs, four music videos, and a 20-page booklet created by designer Brad Talbott. The song styles range from rock ’n roll anthems and sea shanties to jazz and folk. Farmer Jason talks with his musical guests about taking hikes, canoeing, skating, and even spelunking. Guest artists include Steve Gorman of The Black Crowes, Mike Mills from R.E.M., Tom Petersson of Cheap Trick, Iris DeMent, Brandi Carlile, Vic Wooten, Todd Snider, Alison Brown, Terrance Simien, Suzy Bogguss, The Sawdoctors, Webb Wilder, Hank Williams III, and Tommy Ramone.

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Specialty

Wooden You Know, Haba’s Toys Are Sustainable

erman toymaker HABA crafts its wooden items from sustainably forested German maple and beech. Nine baby and toddler wooden products are new this year, and are suitable for children ages 6 months and up. The Little Sparrow and Little Sheep Clutching Toys have dangling feet and bright colors just for baby. Push Tumble-Turn, Flapping Frank, Cackling Cathy, or Chris Croak Push Toys, and watch them go. Or if you’d rather pull, try the Caterpillar Rina Pull Toy. The Zoolino Effect Building Blocks comes with 24 wooden pieces to create a stacking animal zoo. Each beechwood piece has either a drilled hole or a peg for toddlers to easily manipulate it into different characters. The set includes a little bell, a peephole, and a kaleidoscope. Roll the dice and move around wooden pieces in My Very First Games Gitti Giraffe. Toddlers and caretakers grasp, build, and might even topple the Caterpillar Rina Pull Toy long-necked giraffe.

The Young Scientists Club Takes a Ride on The Magic School Bus

HE YOUNG SCIENTISTS CLUB will be showing new The Magic School Bus science kits for ages 5 and up. The new kits will teach children how to make and race magnetic cars, how to create slime, and how to grow pretty polymer petunias and super balls, and includes more than 50 other experiments. Attracted to Magnificent Magnets sends kids on a magnetic scavenger hunt, and shows them how to build a compass, make magnetic slime, design magnetic faces, experiment with lodestone, play magnetic games, hold magnetic car races, and more. The kit includes a poster with a racing track, a gameboard, and experiment diagrams. Explore goo with the Slime and Polymer Lab. Young scientists take polymers out of milk, make slime, create goop, produce a snow eruption, melt snow, grow absorbent flowers, germinate seeds in polymers, perform a polymer trick, dehydrate polymers, and more. If you have a large group, there’s the Grow Amazing Polymers Group Pack for 30 participants. The pack provides enough materials for 30 students. Grow super balls, snow, rainbow beads, crystal gels, and polymer flowers while learning about the importance and science of super-absorbent polymers. This kit comes with 30 manuals that are based on The Magic School Bus TV and book series.

Slime and Polymer Lab

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Hedstrom Goes Bozagga

ew from HEDSTROM SPECIALTY, the Bozagga Bomber Bat is a nitrogen-filled bat for long-distance hitting. It is lightweight, allowing for great bat speeds. The Hydro-Stik is three-in-one summer fun that you can throw, catch, or spray in or out of the water. Two Stiks and one ball are included.

Specialty P’kolino Lowers the Price Tag

’KOLINO’s Puzzle Stacker has a new shape and lower price. The new Puzzle Stacker has all the benefits and functionality of the original, but has a reduced price by $10 at retail. P’kolino’s Puzzle Stacker offers challenges for little ones through multiple stages of development. It is designed to improve motor skills, spatial logic, and color and size recognition. Children are initially challenged to fine-tune motor skills by placing the easy to hold rings on an extra thick stacking pole. With that mastered, the child begins to enhance spatial logic by interlocking any one puzzle piece to any other, in any order. Through “solving” the puzzle sequence, the child learns color and size recognition. The stacker pole is thicker than average stackers, making the stacker more durable while reducing poking hazards. Each puzzle piece is cut from a single piece of wood, reducing the possibility of breakage.

Play, Learn, and Discover with innovativeKids

he INNOVATIVEKIDS Green Start line allows kids to play, discover, and learn using earth-friendly materials. This year, the company introduces new products made with wood from sustainable forests. The carry-along storage package helps keep pieces from getting lost. Green Start Chunky Wooden Puzzles have big pieces that are the same size and shape, fit in every spot, and are easy for little fingers to grasp. Five titles for children ages 1 and older are coming in March. For older toddlers and preschoolers, the Green Start Wooden Puzzles line offers a range of challenge levels for children 18 months and up, 2 years and up, and 3 years and up. In March, innovativeKids will release one new title for each age and stage. The company’s Green Start giant floor puzzles are made with 98-percent post-consumer recycled materials, printed with eco-friendly inks, and measure two feet by three feet when built. InnovativeKids expands its line to include a 60-piece set for more experienced puzzle makers ages 3 and up. Each puzzle stores inside a durable, eco-friendly carrying case with a natural rope handle. Two new titles to be released in March feature dinosaurs and magical creatures. The Junior Groovies series combines a storybook with collectible mini toys. Facts on each page keep kids learning, while a built-in storage compartment makes for easy cleanup. New for March is Junior Groovies Construction. Kids join a construction crew to learn about the vehicles that get the job done. It includes plastic toy trucks to extend playtime and help bring the story and facts to life.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Adventures Await, with Safari

AFARI, LTD. offers a range of creatures, from fantastic to realistic, domestic, exotic, or even extinct. The Best in Show Golden Retriever Adult has a shaggy coat and an eager expression. Originally from Herefordshire, England, the Safari Farm Hereford Cow replica captures its famed red color with white face characteristics. It has a thick, anatomically correct, hand-painted body. Wild animals abound. Study the life-sized Incredible Creatures Eastern Chipmunk Baby. The Wings of the World Barn Owl is a detailed sculpt from Safari with forward-looking eyes. It is hand-painted. The Wildlife Wonders Wolf figure is also hand-painted. The Wild Safari Wildlife Meerkats sculpture features an adult meerkat and baby modeled as one piece. The oversized Wild Safari Wildlife Sable Antelope is handpainted. The Mythical Realms Hydra is a hand-painted sculpt, right out of Greek mythology. Safari taps into the world of Harry Potter with the Wild Safari Dinos & Prehistoric Creatures Dracorex. This detailed sculpt of the plant-eating dinosaur, whose name means the “dragon king of Hogwarts,” is hand-painted. Gaze into the yellow eyes of the meat-eating Wild Safari Dinos & Prehistoric Creatures Ceratosaurus. All products are phthalate- and lead-free to ensure children’s safety.

Mythical Realms Hydra

Matryoshka Madness! Stacks Dolls

ATRYOSHKA MADNESS! introduces plush Matryoshka Dolls, in-

spired by souvenir dolls from Japan. The name Matryoshka comes from a popular Russian female name. The six plush nesting dolls are crafted in polyester/cotton. All six dolls can nest together or stand alone.

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Toymarketing Int’l Races with Rody

Specialty

Wild Republic Builds with Nuts & Bolts

ade in Italy, TOYMARKETING INT’L’s new Racin’ Rody Horse Silver and Gold Rody help children to learn balancing and coordination while hopping on their Rody. Rody toys can be used in therapy for special needs children because of their softness and ride-on qualities. They are made of heavy duty, latex-free vinyl, and can be inflated according to the size and weight of the child (inflation by adult). Rody’s surface is washable, and a base is available for transforming it to a Rocking Rody Horse. The Original Rody Horse is available in 12 colors, and is designed for ages 3 years and up.

ILD REPUBLIC introduces an assortment of new Nuts &

Bolts construction sets with challenging designs and improved metal and plastic parts. The sets come with construction tools. New sets include snake, spider, scorpion, crocodile, and shark. Also new is Galaxy Quest, a line of space exploration-themed play sets that push the boundaries of imaginative interplanetary play.

Greenpoint Introduces Discovery Dog

y Natural Discovery Dog is the first item in the new My Natural Activity Bunch, a collection of learning and discovery toys for babies and toddlers from GREENPOINT BRANDS. This pup is designed to excite baby’s curiosity. Each paw offers a tactile experience, and a pouch on his side opens to reveal a variety of sensory exploration toys. Safe and age appropriate, My Natural Activity Bunch toys help children learn naturally by nurturing three key aspects of growth: sensory exploration, emotional awareness, and physical development. The characters feature eco-plush fabrics and tactile accents made from Spudmer, a patented biodegradable plastic polymer made from reclaimed potato starch. The line is recommended for ages 9 months and up.

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More at Stake Than Winning in Peaceable’s Games

KINGDOM introduces Preschool Skill Builder games, in which everyday tasks, such as cutting with safety scissors or recognizing left from right, are practiced and mastered in a cooperative game setting. The new titles include Feed the Woozle, Willy’s Wiggly Web, and Snug as a Bug in a Rug. In Feed the Woozle, kids must feed Woozle 12 silly snacks without dropping them from the spoon, while they perform actions such as walking backward or hopping like a bunny. The included child-safe scissors in Willy’s Wiggly Web allow two to four players to cut all the little bugs free from Willy’s Web before he drops down from the top. Spin the spinner in Snug as a Bug in a Rug, find the matching bug, and then secretly slide it under the rug, all while working on visual discrimination, the concept of taking turns, and counting. The two newest games in Peaceable Kingdom’s Cooperative Games for Kids collection are Seeds for the Birds and Race to the Treasure. In Seeds for the Birds, players turn over one card at a time and attempt to help Mama Bird by gathering seeds. One visit from the squirrel, however, and the seed stash might end up significantly lighter in volume. The race in Race to the Treasure pits players against a greedy ogre. Along the path, players must work together and strategize to collect the three keys necessary to open the lock. EACEABLE

SeatPets Are Ready to Ride

hildren can now buckle up with SeatPets, a new line of three plush characters—Whish, Awty, and Airheart—that aim to keep children occupied during long or short drives in the car. The 22-inch items attach and cover the length of a seatbelt, and include zipped-up compartments that hold surprise toys. Each character has a soft head that serves as a cuddly pillow to sleep on.

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Specialty Doll Up Your Dolly Domicile with Sophia’s

HERITAGE COLLECTION introduces a new doll furniture line. Sophia’s has continued to supply 18-inch doll clothes and accessories to fit popular dolls by American Girl and Goetz, as well as the Modern Girl Collection 18-inch doll line by Sophia’s. Now, the product line has expanded to include a new doll furniture line of beds, table and chairs, and doll trunks. The highlighted furniture piece is the White Floral Bunk Bed. Hand-painted details include colorful flowers. This easyto-assemble bunk bed includes two mattresses with attached pillows. It is versatile and easy to store. The dolls from the Sophia’s Modern Girl Collection are sold separately. OPHIA’S

VeggieTales Slam into Action with Gregg Gift

GIFT COMPANY and ENESCO introduce VeggieTales Bath Toys and VeggieTales Slammers. VeggieTales Bath Toys are available in Larry the Cucumber and Bob the Tomato styles. VeggieTales Slammers are action-activated sound toys that say the characters’ trademark lines. Larry’s lines include “I am that hero!” and “Super suction ears, away!” Bob the Tomato says phrases such as “Hi, I’m Bob the Tomato, and I’m here to help!” and “Look, this is sitting and this is standing.” REGG

White Floral Bunk Bed

Maple Landmark Keeps Toys Natural

he Schoolhouse Natural brand, from MAPLE LANDMARK WOODCRAFT, introduces six new products, all of which are crafted from responsibly harvested hardwood maple, have laser-engraved detailing, and have no finish. The Gardentown Cars are safe for children ages 6 months and up. The Inchworm Bus measures about six inches long and almost three inches tall, and is cut from a solid piece of one-inch maple. The Bean Car is about six inches long, three inches tall, and one-inch thick. The Peapod Racer is seven inches long, two inches tall, and one-inch thick. Each car has oversized wheels for easy rolling and fun organic shapes to touch and feel. Schoolhouse Naturals Animal Shapes come in two different sets, Wild Animals and Farm Animals, with four animals in each set. The Wild Animal set has an elephant, zebra, gorilla, and lion. The Farm Animal set has a cow, pig, duck, and dog. All the animals are engraved on both sides, and are three-quarters-of-an-inch thick. These animals are sanded flat on the bottom so they can stand upright for open-ended play. Each set is shrink-wrapped for shipping.

VeggieTales Slammers

Inchworm Bus

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MEDIA CENTER

New York-based children’s musical performers and producers, BARI KORAL FAMILY ROCK BAND are set to release their sophomore album titled Anna and the Cupcakes on February 14. Anna and the Cupcakes will feature 10 songs with melodies ranging from roots pop-rockers and infectious blues to country. Tracks on the album include the title track “Anna and the Cupcakes,” “Gingerbread Man,” “Butterfly,” “Hearts,” and others. This release follows the band’s first CD, Rock and Roll Garden, which, recieved critical acclaim and awards.

Based on the children’s book, the story of Stellaluna, a spirited young fruit bat who finds friendship, love, and acceptance in unexpected places, is now an animated feature from SCHOLASTIC. When Stellaluna is separated from her mother, she is taken in by birds, but soon discovers she isn’t like them at all. Her playmates like to sleep at night, and she wants to fly. They sing, and Stellaluna doesn’t have a beak. Just when she feels like an outsider, Stellaluna makes an amazing discovery. The DVD bonus includes an on-screen read-along, a sing-along feature, and a Stellaluna activity booklet.

Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year In The Day is the newest DVD/CD package from APPLE-EYE PRODUCTIONS, and includes hand-drawn music videos from cartoonist/songwriter/performer Morgan Taylor. Follow Gustafer Yellowgold as he experiences a number of Earth’s classic and unusual holidays, including Groundhog Day, Pancake Day/Fat Tuesday, St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween, and more. The Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year In The Day features a focused theme of melodic soft rock throughout 11 music videos ranging from sublime alternative-pop to gentle acoustic.

Author Margaret McNamara and artist Barry Blitt present the illustrated tale George Washington’s Birthday: A Mostly True Tale from SCHWARTZ & WADE. The book gives insight into history, and debugs the myths and truths of the former president’s life using the most current research, such as, Did George Washington wear a wig? Did George Washington chop down a cherry tree? Readers will get a glimpse of the first president as a kid, as opposed to seeing him as an adult.

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Infant & Preschool Build and Roll with Gorgeous’ Boikido

Toy Book Exclusive

orgeous Products introduces the Boikido Wooden 40-Piece Construction Toolbox, which can be used as storage for the set and even rolled around like a vehicle. Five projects are included, and the tools available to builders include 11 geometric shapes, four wheels, 12 screws, 10 nuts, a screwdriver, and a wrench. The set was designed to develop imagination, hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, problem solving, and fine motor skills.

Edushape Offers Fun for the Senses

Toy Book Exclusive

dushape’s Soft Hippo includes a baby-safe mirror, extendable legs and arms, a teether hand, and a teether tail, which can be pulled to make Soft Hippo vibrate and shake the non-removable jangles on its legs. The Soft Elephants are mommy and baby elephants with shakers, rattles, squeakers, an embedded rolling ball rattle, and multi-patterned surface textures. The mommy elephant’s tail can be pulled to make her shake and vibrate, and the ball on top of the mommy’s trunk squeaks when grabbed. The Tub Art Pirate Set and Tub Art Princess Set each comes with four nontoxic soap crayons, a toddler-safe “What would I look like if I were a pirate or princess?” mirror, and two double-sided Edu-Foam drawing pads, all of which adhere to tiles when wet and wipe clean with water and the included eraser. Four coloring surfaces and the new low-distortion mirrors are made of Edu-Foam, which is colorfast and resistant to mold and mildew. They will not absorb water, create residue, or change shape. See Me Sensory Balls are now available in more colors. The Original Sensory Balls are a safe, long-lasting, brightly colored product. Therapeutic Sensory Balls are available in many varieties: Opaque (solid color), See Me (see through), Glow-in-the-Dark (seven-inch only), and Senso-Dot (adds visual sensatory qualities) in both seven-inch and four-inch sizes. With new 33 percent thicker characters, updated graphics, and modernized accessories, Edushape’s Magic Creations Splash of Fashion and Traffic Fun Edu-Foam kits are better than before. Edu-Foam sticks to bathroom tiles and one another when wet, is colorfast, and is resistant to mold and mildew.

Soft Elephants

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Prince Lionheart Introduces One Mat for All

Toy Book Exclusive

rince Lionheartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new playMAT was designed to last throughout all of a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s developmental stages. It can cushion babies during tummy time, entertain toddlers during playtime, and encourage young learners of all ages to engage and explore. Youngsters can search for the hidden characters, count the creatures, sound out letters, and more. The playMAT is dual-sided with two dynamic illustrations. The soft and cushiony mat is water-resistant, easily wipes clean, and is nontoxic. The mat measures 5.8 feet by 6.5 feet, and folds up to fit into its carrying case. It can be used indoors or outside.

Infant & Preschool Capture Baby’s First Years with Faux Paw Productions

apture baby’s first moments with Baby Beginnings from Faux Paw Productions. This baby book records memories and milestones of a baby’s first four years and the first day of school. It features the characters from the Bowzers and Meowzers book series by Debby Carman. Baby Beginnings offers a tote bag, plush hand puppet, stickers, and a growth chart.

sive Toyok Exclu Bo

Have a Ball with Bright Starts

he Bright Starts Having a Ball collection launches with a number of new products. Having a Ball Bunch of Balls includes 16 multicolored character balls in reusable packaging that doubles as storage. The balls can be used in most Having A Ball toys. Having a Ball Shake ’em Pals includes an assortment of six character balls that can be used in many Having a Ball toys. Each character ball makes sounds when shaken, and the reusable packaging can be used for storage. Insert a character ball and press down to make the Having a Ball Press & Zoom Pals vehicle “crank up” and go. You can choose from three characters: a bear, puppy, or frog (each sold separately). Each vehicle has car, fire truck, or airplane sound effects and melodies. Each Press & Zoom Pal includes one character ball. Use the soft plastic mallet or your hand to pound balls through holes, activating lights, sounds, and melodies with the Having a Ball Bop & Chomp Gator. Open the gator’s mouth to release the balls and play again. Bop & Chomp Gator teaches colors, opposites, and cause and effect. It comes with three balls. Insert a ball into the ladder bucket to start the action with the Having a Ball Roll & Pop Fire Truck. The fire truck drives forward and the ball pops out when it automatically stops. Lights flash while fire truck sounds and melodies play. Buttons teach children their ABCs. It comes with three balls. Drop balls into the tailfin to Bop & Chomp Gator load the Having a Ball Get Rollin’ Jet Popper, and push to see balls pop around. If you pull the handlebar trigger, balls pop out. The trigger activates realistic jet sounds and sound effects. The item helps develop motor skills and introduces cause-and-effect play. It includes four balls in addition to the balls in the popper chamber. There are five ways to play with the Having a Ball All Star Game Zone, including baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, and more. The digital scoreboard features counting and animations, and 360-degree play features multiple ball drops and ball play. Lights, sounds, and music add to the play. The set includes a soft plastic bat, basketball, soccer ball, and golf balls. It promotes motor skills and muscle development, and teaches counting and hand-eye coordination. The All Star Game Zone folds for storage.

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Roll & Pop Fire Truck

FEBRUARY 2012

Cloud b Calms Kids Down

loud b presents Tranquil Turtle, a toy that projects a moving underwater effect. Tranquil Turtle is the first Cloud b product to incorporate both sights and sounds. Parents and children can switch between the turtleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soothing melody and calming white noise. The item comes with an illustrated storybook. Soothing Puppets are plush toys that contain a removable hot/cold pack. Both fun and functional, Soothing Puppets can be an addition to a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedtime routine, and are good for bumps and bruises, too. Slumber Scented Puppies contain a removable scented pouch, available in one of four unique fragrances to match the color of the puppy. They colors/scents are pink-strawberry, natural-vanilla, brown-chocolate, and blue-blueberry.

Tranquil Turtle

FEBRUARY 2012

Infant & Preschool Gorgeous Products Goes for Fun and Earth-Friendliness

ew from Gorgeous Products, the Boikido Wooden Animal Construction Set has children building their favorite Boikido animals or creating their own by mixing the pieces together. The set includes 54 pieces—three heads, three bodies, six arms, six legs, 18 screws, and 18 nuts. The Boikido Wooden Bongo Drum Trio includes two drumsticks, and helps children develop motor skills, rhythm, and melody. The easy-to-assemble Wooden Dinner Set includes a table, plates, cups, forks, knives, and a teapot. Boikido games can be built as well, and the Wooden Marble Game includes 30 colorful wooden blocks, allowing kids to create and build their own marble games. The Eco-Friendly Wooden Hammer Game Snail is made of wood from an FSC-monitored source, painted with water-based paints, packaged in a sturdy tub made of recycled materials, and printed with soybean ink. Toddlers are encouraged to learn numbers and colors while hammering away. The Eco-Friendly Wooden Construction 100-Piece Set has all of the environmentally responsible features of the Hammer Game, and is an open-ended building experience for kids. Kids can use the 100 pieces to construct anything that comes to mind. Wooden Hammer Game Snail

Manhattan Toy Has Style

y Little Salon, from Manhattan Toy, lets kids set up their own shop with four rollers, a stain smock, soft scissors, faux shampoo, a nail file, nail polish, and more. All items can be stored in the included carry bag. Baby Stella Sweet Sounds Doll features three sounds—pacifier sucking; “mama,” when her hand is squeezed; and giggling when her foot is squeezed. The Baby Stella Grocery Tote set includes two strawberries, a magnetized teething biscuit, and baby cereal. For the backyard, Manhattan’s Bug Bungalow and Magnifier Set encourages kids to get up close and personal with backyard critters. The plastic door on the bungalow swivels left and right to open. Manhattan Toy hits the road with the EdToy MagnaMobiles Pickup Truck and the EdToy Creator Davinci Automobile, both boasting a rotating magnetic technology that allows the pieces to join together and rotate, adding another element of design. For the younger set, the Whoozit Blissful Bolster Toy has varying textures and colors designed to stimulate the senses. It features crinkle paper, a rattle, teething rings, and a mirror. The Tickety-Tock Clock features adjustable hands that click as they move. The Wimmer-Ferguson See and Say Book displays high-contrast images and easy-to-read letters that are designed to help babies practice image recognition and reading skills. Dinoz Cera and Snugglies Lamb, two new plush toys from Manhattan Toy, feature soft fabrics and a weighted bean-filled bottom. For puppets, Chompeez Moose, Deer, and Bear, and the Duskaroo Owl, Flying Squirrel, and Bat feature soft fabrics and vibrant colors.

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Jakks Keeps Baby and Young Kids Covered

ntering the infant electronics category for the first time, Jakks Pacific introduces its Baby Watch line, which aims to give parents the freedom to go about their daily tasks while never taking an eye off their baby. The Baby Watch has a digital, 2.4GHz signal and a 500-foot range. Baby Watch 1.0 has a 1.77-inch color screen, a water-resistant monitor, and high-tech features, such as night vision and a low battery alarm. The Baby Watch 2.0 WiFi Edition features a wireless connection from a home’s router to a smartphone, tablet, computer, or other web-ready device. Accessories include a baby monitor charging stand, a smart device charging stand, a standard watch band, an EZ slap wrist band, a necklace, and a belt clip. The Baby Watch line will also offer a WiFi-enabled camera that connects to any Internet-ready device. Pawggles are furry animal friends that transform into slippers. The five varieties include Bront the dinosaur, Taffy the pink kitty, Mazzie the unicorn, Fletch the puppy, and Ranger the bear. Creative Designs International, a divsion of Jakks Pacific, introduces the 3Versible Blanket, a multifunctional fleece cover with three designs. With two layers and an extra design on the back, it’s like having three different blankets in one.

Delta Offers Care and Comfort to Baby

elta Children’s Products’ Fun Time Lil’ Playstation II Activity Walker is a 360-degree stationary activity center, walker, and rocker, all in one. Each setting is designed to grow with baby, and aids in reaching numerous developmental stages, such as hand-eye coordination, object exploration, and more. With the 360-degree swivel seat, baby can engage all nine interactive toys, plus colors, shapes, animals, and music. The Fun Time 36 x 36 Play Yard was designed with convenience in mind. The 36- by 36-inch padded play area provides a large space for baby to rest or play, while the large mesh panels allow mom to keep an eye on baby’s activity. The play yard folds compactly, and the coordinating carry bag has sturdy handles. The Ultimate Convenience Stroller, in models designed for boys and girls, has a reclining seat that allows for comfort-adjust seating. Its five-point safety harness with soft shoulder pads keeps baby secure. The stroller also has 600D sport tech fabric, shock-absorbing wheels, a carry handle, a large storage bag, and a removable cup holder. The frame folds conveniently with auto-lock. The Simmons Elite Collection Gliding Bassinet features a large 18-inch by 34-inch bassinet frame, a soothing sideto-side gliding rock motion, an electronic mobile arm with spinning lamb toys, variable speed vibration, a calming night light, and soothing music. The bassinet’s large plush canopy is removable and adjustable, and soft plush fabrics create a comfortable sleep space for baby. Locking casters provide easy mobility and added safety. The Simmons Slumber Time Deluxe Gliding Bassinet is made with soft plush fabrics and a memory foam mattress. It also features an MP3-ready electronic mobile arm with spinning lamb toys, variable speed vibration, a calming nightlight, and soothing music. The 18-inch by 34-inch bassinet frame has a side-to-side gliding motion. The plush canopy is adjustable and removable. The bassinet also has a two-section storage basket, five adjustable height positions, and locking casters for added safety. Delta offers a variety of kids’ properties on its bedroom sets for little ones. Disney Princess covers a twin bed, nightstand, and dresser. Dora the Explorer dresses up a toddler bed. Spider-Man enhances a toddler bed and multi-bin organizer. Delta also offers a Sesame Street Table & Ottoman, Cars Twin Bed, Cars Night Stand, and Cars Dresser. Fun Time Lil’ Playstation II Activity Walker

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Infant & Preschool Touch ’n Go with Blue Box Toys

ith the Touch ’n Go Animated Book, from Blue Box Toys (B Kids), kids can make screen pictures come to life by touching and moving the images on the display. The book teaches about different musical instruments on each page, and plays the melody of the instrument. The Music Mates Smart Phone allows youngsters to activate animations, music, and sound effects by pressing keys on this personal phone replica. Shape ’n Slide Pals is a four-color, two-in-one shape sorter with sliding rattle. Blue Box Toys also offers the Dedee Bath Organizer, which stores bath toys and other items, and comes with a tote bag for outdoor use. Touch ’n Go Animated Book

Tiny Love Soothes ’n Grooves

iny Love’s new crib mobile, Soothe ’n Groove, features three brightly colored, friendly-faced animals hanging from the rotating mobile, and the music box has a selection of 18 different tunes, playing 40 minutes of non-repetitive music. Additional features include shuffle mode, nature and white noise sounds, a calming night light and baby activation button, and volume control. As baby grows, parents can detach the rotating mobile piece, and the music box can remain attached to the crib. The music box also has a carry handle for baby to use outside of the crib. T he Gymini Move ’n Play activity mat adapts to a baby’s growth, allowing for play throughout a child’s first 12 months. Sliding arches create a variety of play positions. For newborns, the activity mat includes hanging toys, teethers, and a mirror. The arches can be repositioned from the traditional dome setup to accommodate a crawling infant.

Snuggle Up with a Hoodie Pet

oodiePet is both a fleece hoodie and a plush toy that attaches with Velcro to the front pocket of the hoodie. An item of clothing and an imaginative puppet in one, HoodiePet encourages creative play.

Gymini Move ’n Play

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Tollytots Partners for New Products

ollytots introduces new products under a variety of licensing agreements. Safety 1st Cubikals Stack ’n Play Blocks are versatile, collectible blocks that can be stacked and sorted, and come in a three-block set, including one character block, a coordinating accessory, and a spinner block. Baby Genius Be a Star Sing-Along Jukebox is like a real jukebox—kids insert plastic coins and use the letter and number buttons to listen to Baby Genius songs. The jukebox can also be played with in karaoke mode. Two microphones are stored on the back, and LED lights flash to match the beat of the song. The Baby Genius Be a DJ Bear Jambouree station lets kids create musical combinations while developing their rhythm, musicality, and motor skills. A Baby Genius version of the classic Jack-in-the-Box, Musical Friends-in-a-Box has three pop-out doors. Wind the wood-effect handle to start the music, causing four animal friends to pop out. My First Rubik’s Cube is a Rubik’s Cube for little ones. The rattle, squeaker, and crinkle fabric add to the multi-sensory, on-the-go play. Rubik’s Big Softy is a soft, skill-building toy that turns like a real Rubik’s Cube. Little ones develop motor skills and color recognition as they play. The Fisher-Price Little Mommy Doctor Mommy interactive doll responds to the doctor tools when getting a check up. Children can take her temperature; check her throat, heartbeat, and reflexes; give her a shot or medicine; and put on a bandage from the carry-along doctor’s kit.

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Infant & Preschool Learning Resources Introduces New Sprouts

he New Sprouts line of toys includes three themes that children can relate to in their everyday life. New Sprouts Munch It! My Very Own Play Food features soft, durable plastic food that’s familiar to toddlers. There are 21 pieces included in the set. New Sprouts Fix It! My Very Own Tool Set encourages imaginative play with tools made from durable, soft plastic. The set includes a saw, hammer, screwdriver, wrench, drill (with sound), and tool box. New Sprouts Cure It! My Very Own Doctor Set comes with soft plastic tools, including a stethoscope, syringe, bandage, ear scope, thermometer, and vinyl bag. All three New Sprouts items are recommended for ages 2 and up. New Sprouts Fix It! My Very Own Tool Set

International Playthings Expands Calico Critters and More

nternational Playthings, LLC introduces several new Calico Critters products for this year, including new families, ready-to-play sets, and homes. The Motorcycle & Sidecar includes Marvin and Maggie Mulberry Raccoon, goggles, eight bumper stickers, two driver licenses, two maps, a magazine, a motorcycle manual, and a club membership card. It also features two helmets and two motorcycle straps for safety. It has spinning wheels, and there are two compartments for storage. International Playthings reveals a new logo, new packaging, and new products for its infant line, Earlyears. The Jungle Activity Center fits snugly in the corner of a crib, opens up to tie on the crib, or lies on the floor for tummy time exploration. The lion’s tail rattles, the bird squeaks, and flowers and leaves crinkle. There is also a fluffy cloud and an interactive mirror. It offers multiple textures, sounds, and features. International Playthings is expanding its Kidoozie line this year. The Deluxe Build-A-Road with Elevator comes with more than 15 feet of flexible track that can be constructed in an infinite number of ways. It includes more than 240 pieces and comes with two batteryoperated cars, a multi-directional connector, and a turnaround. It also includes an elevator that brings the car up to the next level. International Playthings is also expanding Tumblekins, a line of toddler vehicle play sets made with real wood. New products include a Locomotive and a Race Car. International Playthings has new product additions to its Viking Toys line, which features first vehicles for children ages 1 and up. Circus Train includes a ring master, a giraffe, and an elephant. The Train features a hitch and can be attached to other Viking vehicles. Calico Critters Motorcycle & Sidecar

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Ginsey Home Solutions Debuts Helpful Household Tools

he Graco Sure Foot Step Stool, from Ginsey Home Solutions, provides a solid step for little feet. When it comes time for potty training, the contoured shape nests against the base of an adult toilet, while the textured top and gripping feet offer stability to safely reach the potty, sink, or bed. The Graco Travel Folding Potty makes training-on-the-go possible. The potty easily folds into a quarter of the size to easily tuck away into diaper bags and travel totes. The Growing Up Green Stump! pays homage to Mother Nature with a tree trunk shape. The step stool is constructed with eco-friendly Sprigwood material and is made in the U.S. The Dora the Explorer Inflatable Safety Bathtub is made of soft cushion material, and features a comfortable back piece for additional support during washing. It is 30.5 inches by 20.5 inches by seven inches in size. It also has a water temperature display and large storage pockets. The tub hangs by suction hooks to air dry and may also be deflated for travel. Dora the Explorer Inflatable Safety Tub

FEBRUARY 2012

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Infant & Preschool KaZAM’s Got Good Balance

each kids to balance without training wheels using the KaZAM Balance Bike. KaZAM’s point of difference is a foot rest. Children lift their feet up naturally and position them on the foot rest, maintaining the proper balance and center of gravity they would need to ride a traditional bicycle. A realistic approach to learning coordination and balance, it teaches kids how to ride a pedaled bike a different way. It is available in blue, red, green, and pink.

Chicco Introduces New Cybear Toys

hicco dials into Toy Fair with the Cybear Land Mobile. Baby’s first phone is a bilingual toy with language and play mode selector buttons. The phone features four play modes: mobile phone, music, learning, and games. It teaches numbers, greetings on the phone, and countries of the world. It is designed for kids ages 18 months and up. The Cybear Land Babyberry is an interactive, bilingual smartphone that allows kids to play with the letters of the alphabet on a QWERTY keypad. Play modes include letters, alphabet, shapes and music, and words. It is for ages 3 and up. The Cybear Land Dot Kid Pad and Laptop allow kids to play with small computer devices. Both are designed for children ages 3 and up, and teach a range of subjects and encourage creativity. The Land Dot Kid Pad features four levels of play, while the Laptop features three levels with a total of 17 different activities. Chicco’s Talking Carpenter, Talking Kitchen, and Talking Key get the discussion going in multiple languages. The Talking Carpenter includes a vice, a measuring stick, a drill, and three removable tools: a hammer, a saw, and a screwdriver to develop hand coordination skills. The Talking Kitchen, for ages 1 and up, includes a similar set of accoutrements, all appropriate to the kitchen, while the Talking Key is a scaled down version for kids ages 6 months and older that teaches first words, sounds, and colors. The Bubble Gym play mat for children of all ages includes 20 minutes of prerecorded music and sound effects, an MP3 hookup, and soft toy features such as a mirror, crinkle, and rattle. A plastic toy features rattle, teething, and rings. Go Go Buddies are three characters that can move with the Press ’n Go feature. When their backs are pressed, the animals move forward and play a variety of music and sound effects. The harder you press down, the farther they travel. Charge & Drive Vehicles are a child’s first radio-controlled play friends. AvailGo Go Buddies able in police car and fire engine versions, the vehicle’s engine roars as it travels forward, and makes a funny noise when it changes direction.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Little Tikes Has a Big Digger

GA Entertainmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Tikes brand debuts a number of outdoor items this year. The Big Digger Sandbox is modeled after a construction site box, featuring molded ramps and roadways and a working excavator. The truck ramp doubles as a lid to keep sand dry. Accessories include two characters, a sand cup and sifter, shovel, rake, and dump truck. The Big Digger Sandbox is safe for ages 3 and up. For younger kids (6 months to 3 years), Little Tikes offers the Activity Garden. This play center helps infants develop fine motor skills, and easily transforms, without tools, into an open, two-sided area. The interactive take-along, double-sided panel features a mirror, learning clock, ball shaker, three-language interactive telephone, and moveable clicking bugs. The garden also offers an obstacle course, mailbox, tap-a-tune piano, telescope, and open-close window shutters with a flowerpot. Little Tikes is also offering a soft character ride-on, Pillow Racers Dino, for racing around. Children ages 18 months to 3 years can use the product while positioned on their stomachs or while sitting up. The four caster wheels allow the pillow character to easily turn in any direction, and the easy-to-grip handles help little ones hang on. Pillow Racers Dino is soft and washable, and easily detaches from the base. The Big Adventures Raceway includes a classic ramp with three levels of racing, lights that change from red to green, and two stunt car flippers. The molded handle makes for easy transport. The raceway is safe for ages 2 and up. Activity Garden

Wonderworld Puts a Twist on Classic Toys

onder Glow Blocks, from Wonderworld, is a classic wooden block set with 30 glow-in-the-dark pieces in 11 different shapes and colors. Children can play under normal light to see the blocks in one color or turn the lights off to watch as the blocks change to a different color. The Flame Balance Bike has no pedals or training wheels. It has bright orange flames, and features pneumatic rubber tires with extra long tube valves as well as rubberized handle bar grips for easy steering, which is also limited to prevent jackknifing. The cushioned leatherette seat gives kids comfortable support as the spoke-less disk wheels Wonder Glow Blocks glowing in the dark prevent little feet from getting caught. The adjustable seat offers five height positions. The Wonder Tricycle is a simple wooden ride-on for toddlers. Its chunky rubber wheels provide a firm grip on floors, and a 360-degree handlebar allows kids to steer in any direction to their next destination. The Peek A Boo Roller keeps kids engaged when learning new movements and coordination. As kids push the roller, little smiley faces pop up and out with every rotation. The classic design lets kids direct the roller from a handle on a 24-inch pole that promotes goal-directed movement and encourages walking. New to the Wonder Kids Furniture line, the Zebra Long Bench is constructed from environmentally friendly Rubberwood. It is finished in black-and-white stripes with two smiley-faced zebras that serve as the seat. Wheely Giraffe is new to the Fun Safari Collection of hand-sized wooden vehicles. The character waddles and shakes from side-to-side as kids wheel it around. Wonder Glow Blocks

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK â&#x20AC;˘ 225

Are Your Customers Always Right?

How to Reward Your Loyal Customers by Betsy Kruger, author of Top Market Strategy: Applying the 80/20 Rule

n toy retailing, the squeaky wheel almost always winds up getting the grease. Your customers tend to be rewarded for complaining, but that strategy leaves money on the table. You can increase your profits by rewarding your loyal customers, rather than the complainers. Were you, like many toy retailers, disappointed by your holiday profits? Was your toy store filled with bewildered grandmas, frenzied kids, and desperate procrastinators? You can become a hero to your business—and to your loyal customers. How can this be possible? You can implement a top market strategy. But before I share this secret with you, let me first ask, “Are all customers created equal, or are some customers more ‘equal’ than others?” No matter what you answer, you are right. All customers are created equal, but some customers are more valuable to your business than to other businesses. Maybe bewildered grandmas drive the profits of your business, but frenzied kids drive the profits of video arcades.

20 percent of your customers. Contrast them with your less profitable customers. These customers are much more valuable to your store than your other customers. According to the 80/20 rule, you can expect the top 20 percent of your customers to drive 80 percent of your profits from customers.

Step 2: Target your top customers. The next step is to gratify your highly profitable customers. What makes them tick? What toys do they want to buy, why, when, and how? Then implement a market strategy that focuses on your top customers. Provide the toys and services they want, appeal to their reasons for buying, and facilitate the timing and steps of their buying process. As a result, your market strategy will delight these customers.

Step 3: Promote to top prospects. Step 1: Distinguish your top customers. The first step in implementing a top market strategy is to identify who drives the profits of your toy store. Which customers are loyal shoppers, and which ones are complainers who waste your resources? Sort your customers by their profitability and identify the top

226 • THE TOY BOOK

The third step is to target prospects with the same distinctive characteristics as the top 20 percent of your customers. Obtain a contact list of these prospects, and focus on converting them into highly profitable customers. The 80/20 rule predicts that when these new customers replace the bottom 80 percent of your customers, your

profits from customers will quadruple. For example, if bewildered grandmas drive your profits, your sales staff can ask them about their purchase criteria and recommend the perfect toys for their grandchildren. These solutions will greatly reduce the chaos of the holiday rush. Focusing on your most profitable customers will magnify your profits, whereas focusing on your complainers will magnify your complaints. When you use the 80/20 rule to prioritize your customers, you are prioritizing your profits. ■ Betsy Kruger’s mission is to empower prosperity, one business at a time. Her book, Top Market Strategy: Applying the 80/20 Rule, shows managers exactly how to profit. Visit betsykruger.com, or see videos at segmentmarket.com.

FEBRUARY 2012

Welcome

e d it or ’ s n ote

Welcome to the full edition of The Halloween Insider. With retailers and manufacturers reporting a profitable 2011 season, we turn our focus to 2012 and all the spookiness it will bring. If Nostradamus is correct, and the world will end this December, the apocalypse may be a theme to consider for Halloween. Zombies were a popular theme in 2011, and thanks to apocalyptic fear and the continued success of The Walking Dead on AMC, it may well carry into Halloween 2012. Another popular theme for 2012 is superheroes. With Marvel and DC Comics slated to release a number of superhero films in theaters this year, superheroes are likely to top the charts for popular costume themes (as long as men can buck up and don the tights!). Female superheroes are predicted to gain in popularity as well. At The Halloween Insider, we have taken the liberty of dressing classic monsters in superhero costumes on our cover (special thanks for YOE! Studios for the illustration). Being that classic characters are also perennially amongst the most popular costumes, we felt we’d give them a chance to go out and trick-or-treat as someone else for a change! We hope you enjoy our coverage of what’s to come in 2012. Happy Halloween! —Jackie Breyer

CO-PUBLISHERS

Laurie Schacht and Jonathan Samet laurieschacht@aol.com and jsamet@adventurepub.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jackie Breyer jbreyer@toybook.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Elizabeth A. Reid ereid@toybook.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Melissa Tinklepaugh mtinklepaugh@licensingbook.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Bryan Joiner

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Diana Veach dveach@adventurepub.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Anthony K. Guardiola aguardiola@adventurepub.com

All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without prior written consent of Adventure Publishing Group. All photographs, logos, and artwork are the property of their respective owners.

8 The Halloween Insider

ADVENTURE PUBLISHING GROUP, INC.®

Winter 2012 Ta b l e o f C o n t e n t s 10 The Dark Night Rises 14 Start Spreading the “Boos” 15 Houston, We Have

a Holiday 16 Stat Shot 18 The Beauty of Halloween 20 Q&A with Howard Beige 24 Monsters of the Midweek 26 Halloween Knows No

Borders 36 Making It (Better) 44 Add to Cart, If You Dare 28 Product Showcases

28 Adult Costumes 32 Kids’ Costumes 34 Accessories 38 Pets 39 Novelties 40 Home Décor 42 Toys 46 Directory of Advertisers

ADVENTURE PUBLISHING GROUP, INC. www.adventurepublishinggroup.com 307 Seventh Ave., Room 1601 New York, NY 10001 PH (212) 575-4510 FX (212) 575-4521 Cover by Yoe! Studios, illustration by Luke McDonnell; pumpkin from sxc.hu user svrick; Halloween fonts Demons and Darlings, Haunting Attraction, and October Crow: Chad Savage, and Skullbearer from Brian J. Bonislawsky.

Winter 2012

Trends

Feature

The Dark Night Rises Zok!

alloween participation and spending is now showing year-over-year increases as Americans mark their calendars and budget for spooky, sexy, or pop culture-related costumes each year. While consumers spent more money on the holiday in 2011 than in any previous year, how they shop is changing. Online retailers and pop-up stores are taking business away from year-round party and costume shops. The consumer buck is being divided among more types of retailers wanting a slice of the ever-expanding pie or pile of candy, so to speak. “Traditional, year-round brick-and-mortar specialty retailers are still the backbone of the industry, and will continue to be important to the consumer,” says Jonathan Erwin of the Halloween & Party Expo. “But the consumer is now more likely to check prices and browse for products online and at a pop-up store, even if they eventually make their final purchase at a party or traditional costume shop.” Seven in 10 Americans (68.6 percent) planned to celebrate Halloween in 2011, according to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) 2011 Halloween Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey conducted by BIGresearch the highest figure in the survey’s nine-year history, up from 63.8 percent in 2010. The survey also revealed that Halloween spending could

Disguise’s Iron Man costume from its Marvel Super Hero Squad line

Batman and other superheroes fight their way onto the Halloween scene as the holiday becomes bigger than ever. By Melissa Tinklepaugh

1 0 The Halloween Insider

reach $6.86 billion as the average person planned to spend a total of $72 (up from $66 in 2010) on costumes, decorations, and candy. A look at survey results from 2005 through 2011 shows that Americans are spending more on Halloween after a dip in 2009. 8

Year-Over-Year Total Halloween Spending

$6.86

$5.80

$5.77 $4.96

$5.07 $4.75

4 $3. 29

Pow!

Average spending in billions of dollars

Sock!

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

It’s hard to tell whether Halloween is totally free from U.S. economy woes since “nothing is recessionproof,” says NRF’s Kathy Grannis, who adds that customers were eager to celebrate Halloween in 2011. The increase in Halloween spending comes from adults, who are buying more costumes than ever

Winter 2012

“

The consumer is now more likely to check prices and browse for products online and at a pop-up, even if they eventually make their final purchase at a party or traditional costume shop.” —Jonathan Erwin, Halloween & Party Expo

Rubie’s will have new additions to its Super Mario Bros. line, which features Wario, Mario, Princess Peach, and Luigi.

before. “It’s really no longer just a children’s holiday. In recent years, as adults continue to participate in the holiday and celebrate earlier in the month, not just on Halloween, the size of the celebrations and the holiday itself has continued to grow,” says Grannis. Young adults are spending more money on Halloween than the average consumer, says Cheryl Kerzner, vice president of product design and marketing for Disguise. With Halloween falling on a Monday in 2011 and on a Wednesday in 2012, they’re more likely to buy two different costumes as celebrations occur throughout the weekend. Young adults are “the ones buying the bulk of the accessories and really making the costume sing,” says Kerzner. Tweens have joined in the celebrations as well previously feeling they outgrew Halloween after childhood and later jumping back into the celebrations during their college years, says Howard Beige, executive vice president of Rubie’s Costume Co. Halloween’s cultural hold has as much to do with the shared experience it offers as it does with the family budget, according to costume manufacturers. Beige, also a member of the Halloween Industry Association, says that many customers shopped for family or group costumes in 2011, including those inspired by The

Winter 2012

Wizard of Oz, Super Mario Bros., superheroes, and Harry Potter. Beige anticipates this trend to grow next year since Halloween falls on a Wednesday, bringing more families together to trick-or-treat. Beige names licensed costumes and musical superstars specifically Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Michael Jackson, and KISS as other trendy outfits, since they tend to be easily recognizable. Three new superhero films Marvel’s The Avengers, The Amazing Spider-Man, and The Dark Knight Rises will be released in theaters this spring and summer, and are almost certain to increase consumer demand for superhero costumes. “Most of the time our licensed costumes based on a current movie provide a reminder of a shared experience that you had with your friends and family,” says Beige. Retail is also getting ready for a superhero takeover. Launching for Halloween 2012, Party City will host a branded Marvel Halloween Costume Feature Shop in its 800 stores across the country. The shop will showcase costumes and accessories inspired by Marvel’s superheroes and its two summer blockbusters. Disguise manufactures Marvel costumes along with costumes inspired by big brands from Disney, Sesame Street, and Mattel. The costume company found success for Halloween 2011 with costumes inspired by Captain America and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and with its Halloween to Go (H2Go) line, which includes T-shirts, masks, and accessory kits for instant costumes. H2Go caters to parents who don’t want to wear a full costume but still want to participate with their children. At the same time, demand increased for couples’,

Rasta Imposta’s SpaghettiOs costume for kids, from its new Campbell’s soup cans line

The Halloween Insider 1 1

Trends

Disguise’s Snow White Sassy Deluxe costume from its Disney Princess line

mommy-and-me, and family costumes, says Kerzner, adding that The Incredibles family line has sold well continuously since the film’s release in 2004. Like Beige, Kerzner anticipates high demand for superhero costumes next Halloween. “We always have a super strong year as a company when it’s a Spider-Man year,” she says. After the buildup for Thor, Captain America, and The Hulk in their own movies, for which Disguise has the licenses, those characters will come together in Marvel’s The Avengers in May, and kids will take notice. “Anything that’s happening in music, in arts and entertainment, that’s what kids want to be,” says Kerzner. “Once Captain America came out I heard kids screaming in the stores for Captain America shields. Even though those movies are sometimes rated older, these kids know what’s going on, and they want to be those characters.” Rasta Imposta sticks to well-known and long-lasting brands in American culture— including Crayola, Mars, and General Mills cereals—for its humorous costumes. While 30 to 35 percent of Rasta Imposta’s business is licensed, the company tries to avoid “here today, gone tomorrow” licenses, instead looking for longevity with its lines, says Gary Schneider, general manager of marketing and licensing. Its new branded costumes for 2012 include Campbell’s soup cans for all ages, LazyTown and In the Night Garden kids’ costumes, and Nestlé and Wonka candy lines that include Butterfinger, Nerds, SweeTarts, and Laffy Taffy. “We know that the brands we have, led by Crayola, M&Ms, Charlie

1 2 The Halloween Insider

“

Anything that’s happening in music, in arts and entertainment, that’s what kids want to be.” —Cheryl Kerzner, Disguise Brown, and Snoopy, are the types of brands people and families are going to want, and are going to feel comfortable dressing up in,” says Schneider. NRF’s survey showed spending on Halloween costumes could have exceeded $2.5 billion this past Halloween, with $1 billion spent on child costumes (up from $840 million in 2010), $1.21 billion spent on adult costumes (up from $990 million in 2010), and $310 million spent on pet costumes (up from $220 million in 2010). In the same survey, however, nearly onethird (32.1 percent) of respondents said they expected the state of the U.S. economy to impact their Halloween plans. That number is up from 30.1 percent in 2010 and 29.6 percent in 2009. Of the one-third of respondents planning to spend less this past holiday, 87.1 percent said they would spend less overall, 18.9 percent would make a costume instead of purchasing, and 16.6 percent would use last year’s costume. Still, those numbers aren’t worrying costume manufacturers. Beige says people will continue to dress up in increasing numbers because of the low cost of purchasing a costume and accessories. “For a similar price to going out to dinner or going to the movies you can buy a relatively nice costume and celebrate with your friends and family,” he says. Nor were manufacturers too worried that survey results showed more caution toward spending. Consumers now shop smarter, choosing a simpler costume over a deluxe version and comparing prices among traditional costume stores, pop-up shops, and online retailers, but they will still make a special purchase for themselves and their children. “I do think that even in a down economy you’re not going to deny a kid a Spider-Man costume,” says Kerzner. “If a child wants to be Spider-Man, Captain America, or a Disney Princess, parents are going to invest in the costume.” X

Winter 2012

Trade Show

In t’ l H al l owe e n s h ow

Start Spreading the “Boos” Every year, the International Halloween Show, the first of the trade show season, offers frights and delights to regional buyers. In December, the ghouls and goblins came out to play at the Halloween Tower in New York City. By Angela Showell he Halloween Industry Association (HIA), a advantage of a customized and personal sales experitrade organization representing businesses ence. “HIA is pleased to offer these new benefits to involved in the manufacture, importation, regional buyers,” says Biordi. “Early orders allow for and distribution of Halloween products, better planning and decision making, and will ultirecently changed the format of its mately save companies money.” The show is a great opportunity for exhibitors as International Halloween Show in New York City. well. The International Halloween Show is smaller Each year, the International Halloween Show and more exclusive, allowattracts approximately 400 to 500 buyers ing for an intimate experiand online retailers, from the U.S. and internationally, who come from large corporaThe HIA International ence, and the opportunity tions or multi-location outlets. This past Halloween Show offers for a sales increase. As menshow, for the first time, HIA offered open the earliest look at tioned before, it’s also the earliest show of the season, hours for the last two days (December 8-10), upcoming trends.” which means it gives buyers and regional buyers had the opportunity to —Michele Biordi, HIA the first look at the followget a special sneak peek at 2012’s costumes ing year’s trends. “The size and Halloween apparel. The new format of the show means no prodallowed regional buyers a longer lead time and a personal- uct gets overlooked,” Biordi continues. “It can be a great way for a smaller company to break through into ized sales experience. As in years past, the first half of a larger market.” Buyers interested in registering for the 2012 show the show (December 5-7) was reserved for invitation-only, pre- should visit www.hiaonline.org. Manufacturers of scheduled appointments. “The HIA Halloween products interested in exhibiting at the International Halloween Show show should also visit www.hiaonline.org, and click offers the earliest look at upcoming on the “Exhibitor” tab. HIA offers an exhibitor tool kit, trends,” says HIA Executive which is available online and contains information on Director Michele Biordi. “It’s the carpet and furniture rentals, order forms for signage, first show of the season, and will shipping forms, and other necessary items. HIA was formally incorporated as a 501(c)(6) trade give buyers the chance to get a head organization in 2005 to promote and build the celebrastart in planning for 2012.” Appointments were also accept- tion of Halloween in the U.S. HIA represents businessed during the show’s open hours so es involved with Halloween products, including costhat regional buyers could take tumes, décor, novelty items, and party supplies.

“

Angela Showell, Halloween Industry Association (HIA)

1 4 The Halloween Insider

Winter 2012

Trade Show

Hal l owe e n & Pa r ty E xp o

Houston, We Have a Holiday The 2012 Halloween & Party Expo is filled with products, parties, special guests, shows, and even a Boo-hemian Lounge. By Jonathan Erwin he Halloween & Party Expo, running January 28-31, 2012, brings the Halloween, costume, and party industries’ top vendors and buyers together under one roof, and is a great show for seeing—and ordering—what’s new for the coming year. Besides the thousands of buyers and more than 350 manufacturers from around the world, the event’s January timing and centralized meeting location are often cited as two benefits of attending the expo. Covering more than 600,000 square feet of exhibition, education, and performance space, the expo highlights the industry’s top vendors in three distinct areas: Halloween, party, and sexy costumes. Inclusiveness and comprehensiveness are two strengths of the expo. The customer-focused, businessfriendly environment further enhances the experience. In addition to generating traffic and sales, the expo offers a number of popular events, including the Halloween Costume Style Show and Saturday Night After-Party. This year’s Style Show features a 90-foot projection screen and a professionally choreographed production, with special effects and a customized surprise video opener. More than 100 new costumes and licenses will debut. After the Style Show, participants can mingle at the Saturday Night After-Party hosted two blocks away at Little Woodrow’s Pub. The party will feature a professional video DJ, drink tickets, networking opportunities, and up-close looks at featured costumes displayed by live models. This year’s expo also features an education and demo center in the party area. Attendees can learn from a host of professionals during seminars and demonstrations held throughout the show. Topics

Winter 2012

include current industry trends, online selling, social media, management and customer service, and much more. This year’s educational sessions will even feature some star power; former Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member Dina Manzo will present a tablescape demo and party-planning seminar, followed by an autograph signing on Sunday. Manzo hosts the show Dina’s Party, which airs Saturdays at 10/9c on HGTV. Other celebrity appearances, announcements, and social media updates will be posted on the Halloween & Party Expo website. Attendees can also stay informed during the show by checking out the expo’s new plasma screens along the main aisle, which feature general information, videos, and a Twitter feed. Join in the fun with Twitter, and let everyone know your favorite parts of the show with the “#hpe12” hashtag. Jonathan Erwin, While the show’s primary focus is facilitating busi- Halloween & Party Expo ness, it also features a number of areas specifically designed to help busy buyers recharge during their fast-paced days. For example, the Zen Den offers free massages, and the Boo-hemian Lounge features daily happy hour specials. Expo attendees are also encouraged to visit the Green “Scream” Photo area for a complimentary souvenir photograph, and to enter one of the featured contests for a chance to win a prize. The four days of the Halloween & Party Expo are here, so dive in and take advantage of everything the expo has to offer. For more information, visit www.halloweenpartyexpo.com.

The Halloween Insider 1 5

Stat•Shot

Ha l low e en p u rc ha s es

Spooky Spending Stats Here are the top costumes for adults, kids, and pets, as reported by the National Retail Federation’s 2011 Top Costumes survey, conducted by BIGresearch. Kids’ Costumes

Adult Costumes

Batman, The Dark Knight Child’s Deluxe Costume, from Rubie’s Costume Co.

Pet Costumes

Witch

Princess

Pumpkin

Pirate

Witch

Devil

Vampire

Spider-Man

Hot Dog

Zombie

Pirate

Bee

Batman Character

Pumpkin

Cat

Dog

Witch

Vixen

Action/Superhero

Bowties/Fancy Collars/Bandanas

Ghost

Tie: Batman/Vampire

Pirate

Nurse

Tie: Disney Princess/Zombie

Dog

10 Scary Costume/Mask

10 Star Wars Character

Halloween Is BIG for KIds

10 Ghost

PD Group took a look at how money was spent on kids from September–November 2010. “For the first three months that our new Kids Industry Data Service (KIDS) captured cross-category spending on kids ages 14 and under, spending on the Halloween costumes and accessories category captured 7 percent of all dollars spent on kids. Female buyers spent 57 percent of the total for this category. Boys and girls are benefitting equally in this category as the spending splits into 49 percent on girls and 51 percent on boys, which is equal to the gender split in the population. The vast majority of spending occurred at a store, with websites accounting for 7 percent of dollar sales and catalogs comprising 1 percent.” —Antia Frazier, industry analyst, NPD Group

1 6 The Halloween Insider

Winter 2012

REtailer Spotlight Ri ck y ’ s N YC

The Beauty of Halloween Based in New York, Ricky’s NYC uses its unique attributes to stand out from other Halloween retailers. By Elizabeth A. Reid he big standout for Ricky’s NYC this past Halloween started on National Walk of Shame Day. The New York-based hair care and cosmetics retailer, which has expanded to become a costume supercenter, teamed up with vodka manufacturer Svedka for a novelty product, the Walk of Shame After, After Party Pack. The two declared July 27 to be the day to “Forget the blame, and embrace your game.” Inside the pack, owners could find everything needed for that morning after. The pack was a hit, and the duo teamed up for a new product, the Svedka_Grl Halloween costume. Modeled after the robot featured in Svedka’s commercials, the costume is form-fitting and sexy, and was a popular choice for many reality TV stars. “Did you see the cover of the New York Daily News?” Todd Kenig, Ricky’s CEO and chairman, asked in our interview. The front page featured Jersey Shore cast member “JWoww” in the Ricky’s exclusive costume. Kim Zolciak (The Real Housewives of Atlanta) and Coco Austin (Ice Loves Coco) were also fans of the get-up for the holiday. Kenig believes the collaboration worked because of Ricky’s strong fan base in the Big Apple. “Svedka came to us and they know that we get the most eyes on us. There are eight million people in New York and all the press,” Kenig says. “They pumped it out to get press, and we pumped it out getting press, and it became such a limited-edition costume that everyone wanted.” In New York City, Ricky’s is a top destination for costumes. As Merri Rosenberg of The New York Times wrote, Ricky’s is “where a well-dressed vampire shops for fangs.” Founded in 1989 by Todd Kenig’s father, Al (Todd’s brother, wife, and childhood friend

Svedka_Grl Halloween costume

1 8 The Halloween Insider

also serve as executives for the company), Ricky’s has always sold wigs and boas. The shop made its official Halloween premiere when Todd Kenig’s friend requested a Frankenstein statue. Bringing in a Rubie’s catalog, the friend asked Kenig to order the product. Because of the minimum order price, Ricky’s was forced to order more accessories—$3,000 more. That year, the Halloween products sold out. The following year Ricky’s ordered $10,000 worth of products. The next year it was $100,000. Now Ricky’s is ordering in the millions, and has a yearlong costume shop in New York City’s TriBeCa. While the main business for Ricky’s NYC is beauty, Halloween makes up 15 percent of its sales. “It’s probably one of the most profitable parts of our business, but if we didn’t have it we’d still survive,” says Kenig. “It’s the icing on the cake.” This past Halloween, Ricky’s also strengthened its partnership with Rubie’s. Along with TV network AMC, the retailer and manufacturer promoted costumes based on The Walking Dead. Rubie’s secured the license for the popular cable show, Ricky’s promoted the products in its store windows, and all three companies benefited. Knowing that zombies would be a hot trend for Halloween 2011, propelled by AMC’s series, Ricky’s made sure to have them in its stores, and, as always, took the attractive approach. Ricky’s beauty background sets it apart from many other Halloween retailers. “What we did was make zombies sexy,” says Kenig. “First and foremost, we are a beauty supply store, and we try to incorporate Halloween into the beauty. So it’s not just a scary zombie if you see our images. We try to make them pretty.” The result? “Zombies: Looking Dead. Feeling Good.”

Winter 2012

To stay on top of trends, Ricky’s starts its Halloween merchandising in December, attending the big trade shows. The retailer goes over the best-sellers from the previous season and takes a look at the new products for the upcoming year. “I have a very creative team,” Kenig boasts. “In February, we sit down and look through all the catalogs. We see what direction we want to go in, and then decide on the costumes that fit that direction.” By April 15, most of the costume selections are finalized. Currently, in store and online, Ricky’s carries around 10,000 SKUs, with up to 300 adult costumes and approximately 100 kids’ styles. Although adults are the main focus, Ricky’s carries a variety of children’s products, mostly licensed, because of its maturing fan base. The same Ricky’s fans from years ago now have their own kids to shop for, he says, and children’s costumes please the parents. Although most of Ricky’s Halloween merchandising is wrapped up by mid-April, pop culture events keep the retailer on its toes. Having strong relationships with vendors from its beauty business allows Ricky’s to put together last-minute costumes as news erupts. A month before Halloween, Kenig and his crew look at the hottest newsmakers at the moment and try to create a product. Examples from the past include costumes mimicking Sarah Palin, Bernie Madoff, and Joe the Plumber. “[In 2010] we did The Angry Steward—you know, the JetBlue guy,” says Kenig. “It was national. It was all over the press, and we made a costume within a month. We try to do that because it’s relevant.” Exclusive costumes from this past Halloween included Kim Jong-Il and Prince William (Underwrap Costumes), Che Beret with Hair (Elope), and the “Three New Stooges” of “Arnold,” “Weiner,” and “Sheen” (under its own brand). The retailer is still selecting items for 2012, but Kenig expects superheroes to be big due to the number of anticipated movies slated to premiere in theaters this year. At first look, Halloween 2012 falling on a Wednesday may look like a drawback, but Kenig assures business will be brisk. “In New York, that’s my favorite. The weekend before

Winter 2012

“

We are a beauty supply store, and we try to incorporate Halloween into the beauty.” —Todd Kenig, Ricky’s CEO and chairman Halloween will be the biggest numbers,” he explains. “On Monday people forget about it, and then everyone in the city is getting ready for the parties on Wednesday night. Cities are always alive during Halloween night.” He expects consumers to buy the big outfits for the weekend events, and pick up smaller items, such as a wig or glasses, for Halloween night— an extra sale. “It’s a gimme.” For those outside New York, Ricky’s may be coming to a location near you. The retailer is currently working with General Growth Properties and Simon Malls for mall deals. Additionally, the chain is negotiating a deal in Philadelphia. Last year, the team opened a temporary pop-up store in the area and it turned out well; a regular store is the next step. Ricky’s often uses its pop-up stores as a way to test the waters in different areas. At the end of the Halloween season, the retailer scours possible pop-up locations, researching demographics. If the pop-up does well, Ricky’s looks into opening a permanent shop at the location. “It’s great to open up a pop-up shop, but if you can’t have that spot next year, and you do well, you’re never going to show the same numbers next year,” the CEO says. “It’s very important to look for spots that you can do real stores in because that’s the real growth.” With approximately 30 permanent stores open right now in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, and Miami, Ricky’s hopes to open up to 10 more stores in 2012. In store, customers around the nation will be able to find the same fun, chic, and trendy products New Yorkers have loved since the retailer’s founding more than 20 years ago. “You walk out with a Ricky’s bag and it’s cool,” says Kenig. “You know that something cool and funky is going to be in a Ricky’s bag.”

The Halloween Insider 1 9

Expert Q&A

R u bi e ’ s C os tum e Co .

Rubie’s Knows Halloween The Halloween Insider chats with Howard Beige, executive vice president, Rubie’s Costume Co., about the economy, predictions for 2012, and what he thinks you should know about the business. By Jackie Breyer

Howard Beige, executive vice president, Rubie’s Costume Co.

The Halloween Insider: Did Halloween 2011 meet your expectations? How and why? Howard Beige: I think Halloween 2011 was a little bit tricky for everyone. The economy is still struggling. People are participating in Halloween, but they’re also making sacrifices, figuring out where they want to spend their money and in which areas they can conserve. When the economy was normal, Halloween continued to grow, and the day of the week that Halloween fell on didn’t really matter that much. But you see what’s going on with things like Occupy Wall Street and all—there are an awful lot of people that are out of work. We are more fortunate than most industries in the respect that it’s still a very inexpensive holiday to participate in. You can go out and buy a costume for $20-25, and that will ensure you have a good time at the party and you can be part of all the activities. THI: How do you anticipate Halloween falling on a Wednesday in 2012 will affect sales?

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HB: If the economy is better, because of the election year, then I think we will be pleasantly surprised with an increase in sales. If the economy is the same as it was in 2011, I think that you’ll find Halloween will be pretty similar to 2011.

THI: What were Rubie’s best-sellers for 2011? HB: Monster High was absolutely phenomenal for us. Green Lantern was a great costume; I think that surprised a lot of people. Lalaloopsy, which is a line of dolls from MGA Entertainment. Harry Potter— because the last film came out in the middle of the summer—was very strong for us. Katy Perry. Hello Kitty sold very well for us. I think one of the surprises that people didn’t believe in early in the year, but wound up being a very good seller, was Smurfs.

THI: Why wasn’t Smurfs anticipated to do well? HB: Halloween buyers were not really behind the film; they didn’t have a lot of confidence in it. But the film did very well at the box office, and the costumes did very well at retail. In addition to that was zombies; we had the Walking Dead license. That was absolutely huge this year. Strawberry Shortcake was very strong again for the second year in a row. Super Mario Bros. continued to be very successful. And Batman—Batman’s popular every year.

THI: Will Batman be strong this year with the new movie? HB: No. 1 this year, for sure.

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THI: Any other anticipated best-sellers for this year? HB: For us, The Walking Dead, because the new season is getting phenomenal ratings. I think Monster High will grow again this year. We are more than doubling our product line for Monster High. We’ve got all types of new characters coming out, new dresses coming out. We’ll be bringing that into teen and adult costumes as well. Last year was just kids. This year we’re going to be putting more emphasis on three key things. One is entertainment properties, like Monster High, The Dark Knight Rises (Batman), and The Walking Dead. Then, we’ll be doing more in the video game arena, where we’ve been very successful with things like Super Mario Bros. and Pokémon. Last year, we added Mortal Kombat for adults only and that was a total sellout. This year, we’re adding Sonic the Hedgehog. The third part is entertainer licenses. We have Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Michael Jackson. We’re adding Rihanna this year, and I think we might even have one or two more surprises.

THI: Do you have any tips for retailers as they prepare for Halloween 2012? HB: I think what was necessary last year was having a selection of opening price point merchandise. We also saw definite growth in group costumes. It used to be couples’ costumes. Last year we saw growth in group costumes, such as Monster High, where we offered five characters and girls were getting together and going as all five characters. We’ve seen families get together and go as the characters from The Wizard of Oz. Another recommendation is, if a retailer has space, to make a boutique in the store. With Monster High, [retailers] were putting the Monster High costumes next to the Monster High makeup kits, Monster High wigs, and Monster High accessories. People were buying the items because they were sitting right next to the costumes—they were easy to find.

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Whether the theme is vampires, Batman, pirates— generic or licensed, it doesn’t matter—I would really love to see, if people have the space, that they boutique the theme. Typically what we recommend is to put your adult costumes on one side of the section, put all of the add-on items— the wigs, the hats, the beards, the moustaches, the makeup—in the middle, and then put the kids’ costumes on the other side. It’s also important to have some signage saying “Pirate Headquarters,” “Vampire Village.” Get a little creative.

THI: Any other merchandising tips? HB: We saw the use of mannequins last year in different stores in the Northeast. A small chain of temporary stores used hundreds of mannequins in the store layout to help customers choose their costume. Their point of differentiation was that they had probably more than half the costumes out on mannequins. I think using mannequins to show off better quality and more popular costumes would be a very positive way to sell more product.

Monster High: Clawdeen Wolf

THI: How do you scope out trends for Halloween costumes more than a year in advance of the holiday? HB: We basically look at themes that are growing. We do a lot of research at retail and with retailers themselves about sell-through and things that are doing well. Generally, a theme doesn’t all of a sudden happen one year and disappear the next. It’s normally a three- to four-year cycle on these themes. We look at themes that are growing and haven’t peaked yet. We also look at what’s happening in the fashion industry and the entertainment industry. When you know that three or four different studios are doing zombie films, you can pretty much predict that zombies are going to mean something. That’s how it hap-

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Expert Q&A

Ru b ie ’ s Cos tu me C o.

pens. It’s not usually one lone movie that comes out. We look at themes that are building. Did they do well? If so, how do you expand that business for the retailer? We also look at what’s going on in Hollywood. We have to commit a lot of dollars to develop a theme so we’re pretty careful about it.

THI: How has technology impacted the Halloween industry? HB: You can look at that question many different ways. When you say technology, I could consider Internet sales—that’s certainly had a profound impact on Halloween. I think Internet sales is one of the areas of Halloween that actually grew in 2011.

The Smurfs

THI: Is that impacting brick-and-mortar retailers? Or are these generThe Walking ally offshoots of brickDead: Little Girl and-mortar retailers? Zombie HB: It’s both. There are certain online retailers that only do online sales, and they don’t have a brickand-mortar storefront, but then there are hundreds of brick-and-mortar shops that also have an Internet store. They’ve come up with new and creative ways to show the costumes online. Some of the websites today, you can actually see the costumes in motion; you see an eight- to 10-second clip of a model walking in the costume. That’s newer technology. In some cases you see the costume in still images, but you can see the front, the back, and the sides of the costume. That is impacting Halloween in a way that a person feels they can see quite a bit about the costume

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and they’re more comfortable purchasing it.

THI: Do you agree with the current timing of the trade shows? HB: Yes, I do. I think that it has become challenging as more of the products continue to be made overseas. The lead times have become a little bit longer, so I think the first major preview for Halloween being in December is appropriate. Then for the biggest show in the industry, the Houston show, mid- to late January is very appropriate. I think the key shows have to take place early in the season so retailers can visit with the different suppliers, see what’s available, and then make their buying decisions within a month or so. I think for any of the suppliers and manufacturers, they really need their orders in house by February or March at the latest, and in order to accomplish that, you’ve got to have your shows before that. So I think the timing is actually optimum for our selling and production seasons.

THI: Is there anything you would change or add to create the perfect Halloween show? HB: I would try to market the show more internationally. I think back to what the toy show used to be in February, and Toy Fair truly was an international toy show. I don’t really think the Halloween show has gotten to that point. Halloween is celebrated in many parts of the world, so it would make sense to promote it on more of an international basis.

THI: Have you decided what you’re going to dress up as next Halloween? HB: Not yet; I’m still trying to figure out what’s going to be very popular. Last year I took a more comfortable approach to it; I was a grunge pirate. And I had hair again, the first time in years!

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Trends

Pe r sp e cti ve s

Monsters of the Midweek As Halloween grows, the day of the week it falls on matters less and less. It’s a holiday over the hump. By Howard Beige, executive vice president, Rubie’s Costume Co.

hat does it mean for Halloween to be on a Wednesday in 2012? Having Halloween fall midweek actually promotes consumers to dress up the weekend before and the weekend following October 31, so potentially there are three different opportunities for consumers to dress up to celebrate the holiday. Not only will retailers benefit from the midweek holiday, but rental shops in particular look forward to a Wednesday Halloween because they will be able to rent costumes the weekend before Halloween and the weekend after Halloween. Overall, Halloween continues to grow each year regardless of the day it falls on, and the overall growth of Halloween is more important than the day of the week that Halloween actually falls on; more and more people are Batman, The participating in Halloween Dark Knight Child’s Deluxe each year. Costume As Halloween remains a profitable industry, there are specific categories that have also seen an increase. The children’s costume category continues to grow. In addition, tweens (ages 10-14) have a new desire to dress up in costumes

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that are hip and trendy. There has also been growth in infant and toddler costumes, as parents want cute, comfortable costumes, and are willing to spend a little extra money to assure their child looks topnotch along with their siblings. Alongside costumes, accessories (including makeup) are a hot commodity since they are an easy add-on for those who want to feel festive without the commitment of a head-totoe look. For example, a wig will provide a fun yet different look with very little effort. I believe Halloween 2012 will surpass 2011. Retailers are entering the new year with a cleaner inventory and less carryover from 2011, resulting in an increased opportunity for fresh new products for the season. With that in mind, Rubie’s has added more than 1,000 new items and more than 20 new licenses for 2012, including The Dark Knight Rises (Batman), The Dark Shadows, Snow White and The Huntsman, The Hobbit, John Carters of Mars, The Adventures of Tintin, Dorothy of Oz, Skylander, Frankenweenie, and Sonic the Hedgehog. As always, Rubie’s customers remain a top priority, and we take pride in providing a variety of options to fit the whole family.

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Trends

Gl ob al Ce l eb r ati on s

Halloween Knows No Borders Many cultures are hanging on to their traditional Halloween celebrations, while others are embracing the holiday in an American fashion. By Amy Francisco, Halloween & Party Expo

A traditional Mexican Catrina figurine, often used to adorn altars during Día de los Muertos

n Germany, they put away their knives. In Japan, they hang red lanterns. In Mexico, they build altars decorated with flowers and photographs. In Belgium, they light candles. Halloween, a day historians say originated in Ireland with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, exists in one form or another in many countries around the world. The American version—characterized by costumed trick-or-treaters and candy, as well as spooky, themed parties and horror movies—is growing in popularity around the world. The celebration is the result of a centuries-long evolution from a religious occasion dedicated to honoring the dead (as it is still celebrated in Mexico as “Día de los Muertos”) to one more focused on fun and frivolity. Halloween festivities in Australia are relatively new, but when the day is celebrated it's mostly Americaninspired. “These days, if you know there are children in the area who like to dress up and trick-or-treat, it has become an accepted practice to have lollies [lollipops] available to hand out,” writes the webmistress of Halloween-

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Australia.com, a “Sydney mum who likes decorating her house with supplementary cobwebs” and goes by the name of Chris. She advises Australians to “let them know you're taking part by having decorations or black or orange balloons at your front gate.” While Halloween is just taking off in Australia, it's starting to be big business in Europe. “People are doing Halloween in Russia, Holland, and even Israel,” says Halloween & Party Expo exhibitor Juan Pablo Cabrera, a designer of feathered costumes and accessories. “It’s incredible… very exciting.” In just nine years, from 2001 to 2010, British spending on Halloween products increased nearly 1,900 percent. Cadbury, a UK chocolatier, even launched a line of Halloween treats including a “Screme Egg.” According to the Taipei Times, some people in Hong Kong pay the equivalent of $128 for a Halloween pumpkin imported from Japan. The novelty aspect of Halloween might be the reason for the holiday’s growing popularity in Asia, but according to Businessweek, American companies are fueling the craze in Europe. Disneyland Paris began promoting Halloween in 2001, holding events complete with walking jack-o-lantern characters. After other American businesses, including McDonald’s and Toys “R” Us, began promoting Halloween in Europe, local businesses followed suit, decorating with black and orange and selling costumes and candy. There are still differences. Go to a Halloween festival in Italy, and you’ll see plenty of witches and ghosts, but not very many Luke Skywalkers. Europeans opt for classic Halloween costumes, rather than Disney

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Princesses or superheroes, reports Businessweek. Vampires, on the other hand, are everywhere, thanks to the phenomenon triggered by the Twilight and True Blood series, says the BBC. While marketing may be the reason why Halloween is growing in popularity in some countries, there could also be a simpler explanation, says Leslie Gaylor, sales and brand manager of the Halloween division of Ellie Shoes, a costume footwear wholesaler and Halloween & Party Expo exhibitor. “I think as people see how much fun we’re having with it, everyone wants an excuse to be silly and let loose and have fun.” International exhibitors contributed to the anticipated sellout of the 2012 Halloween & Party Expo, including vendors from the UK, Taiwan, Canada, and Mexico. In addition to the growth in international exhibitors, there was also a rise in international buyer registration. The timing and location of the Halloween & Party Expo, which is held in January each year in

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Houston, also contributes to its global appeal. “The early show dates certainly benefit domestic and international manufacturers and retailers,” says Jonathan Erwin of the Halloween & Party Expo. “And because it’s a major port and a leading energy capital, Houston has been a gateway to world markets for a long time. This show—produced for the industry and by the industry—brings vendors and buyers together from around the globe at the critical ordering time.” The Halloween & Party Expo is endorsed by the National Costumers Association, the Halloween Industry Association, and the International Balloon Association, as well as Party Club of America and Paper First Affiliates, who conduct their annual meetings in conjunction with the show. The Expo is also home to the Halloween Costume Style Show and Rubie’s Annual Halloween Bash. For more information on the expo, visit www.halloweenpartyexpo.com or turn to page 15.

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Ad ul t C os tum e s

lear the runway for Derek Zoolander by Rubie’s Costume Co.! The male model, famous for his “Blue Steel” pose, is captured in costume with a stylish shirt, pants, and wig. Joining Zoolander is the movie’s evil fashion guru, Mugatu. Just like actor Will Ferrell’s ensemble in the movie, the costume includes a shirt with attached vest, corset, wig, and goatee.

utu Lulu The Clown is part of Forum Novelties’ new Circus Sweetie line. The collection of female clown-themed costumes and accessories is a new take on a classic best-seller. The company is also debuting Donkey Mascot, part of a new full range of lower-priced mascot costumes, and a new line, Lady in the Navy, filled with nauticalthemed costumes and accessories for women. Tutu Lulu The Clown

Derek Zoolander costume

Spider-Girl Sassy Deluxe

he Women of Marvel take the spotlight in a collection of costumes by Disguise. The collection includes Spider-Girl Deluxe and Spider-Girl Pink Deluxe, each of which includes a dress, petticoat, pair of leg warmers, and eye mask. The Spider-Girl Sassy Deluxe costume includes a dress, petticoat, shrug, and eye mask. The Amazing Spider-Man is set to release in theaters July 3.

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or the first time, the Coca-Cola brand is coming to the Halloween market. Rasta Imposta has been granted the license to produce Halloween costumes, adult-sized only, featuring the world’s No.1 brand. The initial lineup from the company for 2012 will include Coca-Cola and Diet Coke cup, can, and bottle costumes. Rasta will also release a Coca-Cola version of its popular tank dress. Classic Soda Jerks and Car Hop waitresses will round out the line.

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rom totally tattered to super sexy, Fun World has zombies for everyone. The Dark Zombie features a stained and shredded shirt, an overshirt, and pants (also available for teens). The Zombie Monk includes a distressed robe, shoulder stole, and matching hood with cowl. Just add a little makeup and theatrical blood and the Monk is ready to stalk the living.

Zombie Monk

asta Imposta has been granted the license to produce Halloween costumes using the Nestlé Chocolate and Nestlé Wonka candy brands. The line will debut in time for this year’s Halloween, and will feature costumes for infants (buntings), teens, and adults. Brands include Nestlé 100 Grand Bar, Nestlé Butterfinger Bar, Nestlé Crunch Bar, Nestlé Goobers Chocolate Covered Peanuts, Nestlé Raisinets, Nestlé Sno-Caps, Nestlé Milk Chocolate Bar, SweeTarts Candy, Nerds, Fun Dip, Laffy Taffy, and Pixy Stix. Products will include wrapper costumes and tank dresses.

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Dark Zombie

Sassy Bedtime Bear

ore than 600 new styles from Disguise will be unveiled at the Halloween trade shows, including Care Bears. The Frilly Cheer Bear costume includes a dress and headband. The Cheer Bear Deluxe Plush is a jumpsuit with a soft character headpiece. The Sassy Bedtime Bear costume includes a dress and headband with ears.

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ound 5 is releasing a new Bruce Lee costume line, inspired by some of Lee’s most iconic roles. The Kung Fu uniform resembles the uniform Lee wore for years while studying Wing Chun kung fu, the foundation of Lee’s system of Jeet Kune Do. The Yellow Gi costume is perfect for training to fight in a secret tournament or just for making an impression at a holiday party. The jacket-and-pants combination includes a black belt and an official Bruce Lee-branded patch on the lapel. Also available is the Classic Jumpsuit and the Jumpsuit Mini Dress for women.

ubie’s Costume Co. makes it easy to be green, as Kermit, the popular Muppet character, goes girly. The Kermit dress includes a tulle bottom and matching belt. Also available is Animal, a rockin’, fun-andflirty costume. The costume based on the crazed percussionist Muppet includes a top, skirt, and cuffs. The company also releases the Star Wars Darth Maul jumpsuit, allowing owners to transform into the mysterious Sith Lord. Kermit Woman

Yellow Gi

his year, Disguise will premiere new costumes from 14 television shows, including Fox’s Bob’s Burgers. The Bob’s Burger costume includes an apron, mustache, and faux Bob’s pen. The Gene’s Burger costume includes a foam overlay and faux megaphone cutout. Shirts, pants, burgers, and trays are not included. The company also releases costumes based on 10 theatrical blockbusters, including Austin Powers. The fourth movie in the Austin Powers movie series is slated to release in 2013. Gene’s Burger

he Hostess Twinkie and Cupcake line from Rasta Imposta will continue this year, available in adult and child costumes. Also continuing in 2012 is the “A Christmas Story Movie” line. The line including the Leg Lamp sexy dress, the Fragile Box, and Ralphie’s favorite gift, the Pink Bunny Suit. Other licensed adult costumes include Tootsie Roll, and new properties Wiffle Ball, Campbell’s soup, and Chiquita Banana. Hostess Tank Dress

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Product Preview F

Ki d s’ C os tum e s

orum Novelties introduces a costume line based on the Anno ying Orange web series. Forum will produce a full line of child, teen, and adult costumes and masks in a range of characters from the series. The Anno ying Orange is coming to TV next year.

ock On! Fun World is bringing the ’80s back with looks for the whole family. The ’80s Pop Party line features a dress with graffiti-print top, leopard tutu skirt, fishnet glovelets, and a lace hair tie. Just accessorize with bracelets and neon anklets and you’re ready to party. The Glam Rocker costume for teens features leopard stretch pants, a printed tank top, and a fishnet “Flashdance” cut-over shirt.

’80s Pop Party

isguise, celebrating its 25th anniversary, has the license for Marvel’s The Avengers costumes for 2012. The film is due to hit theaters May 4. Disguise’s Iron Man Mark 7 Avengers Classic Muscle costume features a jumpsuit with muscle torso and arms, and a mask. A Thor Avengers Classic Muscle costume is also available.

ubie’s Costume Co. is banking on The Muppets making a splash with a new generation for Halloween 2012. The company’s Fozzie Bear costume includes a dress with attached sash, headpiece, and cuffs. A costume based on Kermit the Frog features a dress with tulle bottom and matching belt. A pink and black rockin’ Animal costume will be available as well. The costume, based on the crazed percussionist from The Muppets, includes a hot pink top, black skirt, and cuffs.

Fozzie Bear Iron Man Mark 7 Avengers Classic Muscle

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asta Imposta introduces the first licensed banana costume to the Halloween industry, featuring Chiquita Banana. Chiquita Banana costumes will come in all size ranges from baby bunting and toddler styles to adult and adult plus-size styles. Rasta also introduces new dress styles to its line of Tootsie Roll-branded dresses. Tootsie Roll, Blow Pop, and Sugar Babies brands will be featured in new styles for kids, teens, and adults this year.

it Entertainment has partnered with Disguise for the Frilly Thomas for Girls costume. The dresses feature tutu-inspired skirts, and the bodice features glittery character artwork. A conductorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cap on an easyto-wear headband completes the look.

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un Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zombie line for teens includes the Night Zombie, featuring a fashion-forward empire dress with matching attired leggings. Just add a zombie wig for a finishing touch. The line is also available for ladies.

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Insider Look At: accessories

he Fall Fairy accessory, from Zagone Studios, presents a cute look that will light up a room with its added glitter. It’s designed for women of all ages. Complete the costume with a simple pair of fairy wings.

ace up new boots from Ellie Shoes to give your costume the kick in the pants it needs to kick butt, solider-style. The one-inch heel men’s combat boot is a great addition to military-inspired costumes, while the one-inch children’s camo boot, available in sizes XS-XL, is great for the little soliders out there.

ew from XGen Products are Eye Candy False Lashes. These lashes are available in 36 varieties: 20 Glamour and 16 Premium styles. Glamour lashes include feathers, rhinestones, and other ornate options, while the Premium lashes are all black in a variety of looks. All of the lashes are lightweight, easy to wear, and include adhesive. The clear packaging displays the product and features application instructions in four languages.

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reative Innovations USA’s County Coroner line of accessories is designed for guys looking for a lastminute costume. A T-shirt and hat are emblazoned with the County Coroner logo and the tagline, “Our Day Begins When Your Day Ends.”

un and flirty, Pleasure Wigs from XGen Products are designed to be realistic and are washable. Sixteen new styles will be introduced this year. Pleasure Wigs also offers clip-in hair extensions available in an assortment of colors.

Disney Princess Glitter Kit, by Disguise, Inc., allows children to make their Cinderella and Snow White costumes even more sparkly. A Women of Marvel Glitter Kit, just in time for Marvel’s The Avengers film release, is also offered.

orum Novelties brings the undead to life with Biohazard Zombie Goggles, part of a new Biohazard Zombie line, which includes costumes and décor. Forum Novelties also introduces the Vintage Hollywood line, with accessories including a Mink Stole that evokes the glamour of a bygone era in Tinseltown.

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Accessories

Do I t Yo ur s el f

Making it (Better) Halloween is a great time to break out of a routine and do things a little differently. A surefire way to celebrate in a one-of-a-kind costume is to make it—or improve it— yourself. By Bryan Joiner

eople are generally creative, but many of them sories. Analog and digital displays were also a big hit, spend a good portion of their waking hours sit- he said, specifically Zombie Babies, a house line from ting in a cubicle or at a cash register, repeating Spirit Halloween of undead infants. Steampunk—a style of fashion evoking the steamsimple tasks. Halloween is different; it’s a holipower era of Victorian Britain—grew in popularity, day where people get to work out their creative says Zolper, including goggles, aviation gear, monomuscles until they need to be replenished. cles, and old revolvers. While my costume was a DIY representaZolper expects to see fewer tion of a cartoon character—I was the Magic “zombified” costumes next School Bus, for which no licensed costume I see people buying year, as she feels the zombie exists—many people take popular licensed [...] an extra sword, craze may cycle into remischaracter costumes and put their own twist on them, according to Dotty Zolper of some lace gloves or hot sion, but there are always BuyCostumes.com. A big trend this year colored nylons—fun lit- pop-culture driven trends for which to prepare. AMC’s was “zombifying” pop culture icons like— tle accents that personThe Walk ing Dead helped but hardly limited to—Justin Bieber, she alize costumes.” spur the zombie trend just says. “I see people buying the standard cosas Tw ilight helped push the tumes so they don’t have —Dotty Zolper, BuyCostumes.com vampire trend into the pubto put their own outfit lic eye. The release of the together, but then buying the cool accessories to give them a fourth and fifth Tw ilight movies, Tw ilight: Break ing personalized touch: an extra sword, Daw n Part 1 (2011) and Part 2 (2012), could mean figsome lace gloves, or hot colored uratively sunnier times ahead for the undead. It’s not just movies that stir trends. Music videos nylons—fun little accents that perlike those from Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj have sonalize the costume.” Eddie Viechec, a sales associate increased sales of brightly colored wigs, says Zolper. at Spirit Halloween’s midtown To that end, BuyCostumes monitors pop culture pheManhattan pop-up outlet (one of nomena throughout the year for potential hot-ticket three operated in New York City; items. Last year, anticipating interest in Kardashianthe others were in Brooklyn and the related accessories, BuyCostumes stocked up on long Bronx), says capes were the No. 1- dark wings and—yes—booty enhancers. Keeping up with the trends is no easy task, but if selling accessory in the store, followed by wigs, angel wings, retailers don’t do it, their competitors will. No one wants gloves, and Michael Jackson acces- to become a real member of the walking dead.

“

The author as the Magic School Bus, with Miss Frizzle

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The Voice Reaching Both Trade and Consumers

CONTACT: JONATHAN SAMET OR LAURIE SCHACHT ADVENTURE PUBLISHING GROUP 307 7TH AVENUE, SUITE 1601 NEW YORK, NY 10001 TEL: 212-575-4510 FAX: 212-575-4521 WWW.ADVENTUREPUB.COM

InsiderLookAt:

pet Costumes

he Man of Steel and The Dark Knight have gone to the dogs, literally, with officially licensed costumes from Rubie’s Costume Co. Additional costumes include Batman from Batm an: The Brave and The Bo ld , and The Joker. All costumes are available in sizes small through extra large.

aco dog! Dress up a smaller pooch with a simple wrap-over-back taco shell from Fun World. It features a covering of yummy fillings, adjustable straps, and a sombrero. Devil Dog is a chocolatey costume for smaller dogs. Easy wrap-over-back cake sides and a creamy filling cover with devil horns give it the final touch. Big Daddy Dog, designed for large dogs, features a purple velvet jacket with leopard trim and a matching hat.

The Dark Knight-licensed Batman pet costume

Crayola Crayon

ew pet costumes from Disguise, Inc. include a classic Spider-Man outfit. The costume includes a printed shirt and headpiece that’s easily wearable and lightweight.

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Underdog

asta Imposta will debut a line of costumes for dogs this year. The line will include some of Rasta’s licensed property portfolio, along with some of its own generic designs. Sizes run from XS to XL, with five different sizes in all.

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Insider Look At: C

egent Products offers a large and diversified assortment of “Extreme Value” consumer packaged goods for retail stores. Among its Halloween products, Regent Products has a Pumpkin Bucket with Handle, which can hold lots of goodies. It also offers a Trick or Treat Bag with Handle and Drawstring, available in six different prints. The soft-sided bag is an economical option for those on a tight budget, and it’s big enough to hold lots of candy.

Nov el ti e s

reate the perfect crime scene anywhere with Creative Innovations USA’s Crime Scene Kit. The Crime Scene Kit includes five bright yellow evidence markers, glow-in-the-dark body outline chalk, and 100 feet of “Caution Crime Scene Do Not Enter” tape. The new County Coroner Body Bag measures 6.5-feet long by 2.5-feet wide, and is made with heavy tear-resistant nylon and a full-length double zipper. Creative Innovations USA’s Toe/Drink Tags can be attached to any glass or party cup as drink charms. They can also be used as gift tags, invitation inserts, and place cards. They come in a counter display containing 24 packs of six tags each.

elebriDucks introduces its Halloween Screaming Rubber Duck in new horror-themed packaging. The company makes a line of celebrity ducks, including The Wizard of Oz, Elvis Presley, Barack Obama, Marilyn Monroe, and KISS. CelebriDucks has produced ducks for the NBA, Major League Baseball, the NHL, Collegiate Mascots, and NASCAR.

easons USA, Inc.’s Kookie Characters come in four assorted styles in a case pack of 12. These frightening little guys are 7.5-inches tall and are made of latex.

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Insider Look At: Ho me D ec or

ccasions’ new home décor products include Life-Size Blood Bags, with five on a string. The bags have a LED light show in-sync with creepy music, and are battery operated. Occasions also offers a Zombie Porch Greeter that stands three feet tall and has poseable arms. It holds candy in its head and has motion-activated eye lights with zombie sounds. Other products include Zombie Hand Pathway Markers featuring a light-up eerie glow with LED lights, sound-sensor activation, and zombie-moaning sound effects; and a three-foot-tall Floating Ghost that features LED lights and motion-activated swaying and spooky sounds.

Life-Size Blood Bags

he Graveyard Gothic Garden, by DuneCraft, celebrates plants that are strange, ugly, and unusual—even the seeds of some of these plants are bizarre. Gardeners simply plant the seeds in the graves they have created by using the included Blood Rock and Tombstone Stakes. Then, water and step back. Witches’ Woods is a mystical garden containing plants used to make flying potions, ward off the Evil Eye, attract money, and help to see the future. Each garden is safe for ages 3 and up. Graveyard Gothic Garden

orum Novelties has new indoor and outdoor décor for 2012. The company introduces its new Biohazard Zombie with costumes, accessories, and décor, expanding its zombie line. The line includes the Biohazard Zombie Light Up Eyes Nurse Standing Prop.

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allerie II introduces the 48-inch Agatha the Witch prop as part of its 45piece 2012 expansion of the Gathered Traditions softsculptured characters line from artist Joe Spencer. The 2012 additions include new wall canvas and resin ornaments.

Winter 2012

keleton Store has new items for 2012, aimed to thrill haunted house-goers and attract those who love scary stuff. The 13-inch tall 3-Skull Candle is five-inches wide with three light-up skulls at the base, LED lights inside, a flickering flame powered by two AA batteries (not included), and a hangtag. Other offerings from Skeleton Store include a Fetal Skeleton with Stand, a Glow in the Dark Bucky Skull, and Light Up/Moaning Ground Breaker Zombie. 3-Skull Candle

Freddy Krueger window poster

OWindows, LLC offers reusable colored and translucent plastic window posters (three feet by five feet) that light up with everyday household lamps to spook or delight. The WOWindow Posters line includes licensed Freddy Krueger, Silent Shrieker, Grim Reaper, and Sinister Sid prints.

easons USA, Inc. has many products for the wholesale, costume, and haunted house buyer. Its home dĂŠcor offerings for 2012 include a 30inch Fiberglass Tombstone that can withstand being outdoors and a 60-inch-tall Post â&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Stay Skeleton that has locking joints in its arms and legs to support itself.

30-inch Fiberglass Tombstone

Winter 2012

The Halloween Insider 4 3

Insider Look At:

Toys & Me d ia

iamond Select Toys has secured the license for Lenore, The Cute Little Dead Girl, from creator, writer, and artist Roman Dirge. Celebrating her 20th anniversary this year, Lenore, already a star of a comic book and animated series, will soon take the spotlight in a diverse product line of action figures, MiniMates, PVC figurines, banks, bottle openers, and ice cube trays.

rick or shriek! Innovation First, Inc.’s Limited Edition Hexbug Nano Mutant Zombie rises to the occasion from coffin-shaped packaging and has a removable glow-in-the-dark exoskeleton. The Hexbug Nano Mutant Zombie is available in a black or orange coffin, and includes a button-cell battery.

he Jolly Jack-O-Lantern doll, from Adora Doll, is ready to celebrate Halloween all year long. Made from baby powder-scented vinyl, the doll is 20 inches tall, and features a crisp, cotton black dress with jolly jack-o-lantern appliqués on the skirt. Each appliqué is embellished with rickrack trim and ribbons. Her hair is styled in two high ponytails.

ncle Milton’s R/C Rat has a realistic fur texture. Using the remote control sends the rat crawling across any smooth, flat surface. The company’s Scurry and Scare Bugs are creepy crawlers that scamper into action. Perfect for scaring friends and family, the line includes a black widow, a cockroach, a hissing cockroach, and a Jerusalem cricket. No batteries are required, just rev them up and let them go.

4 6 The Halloween Insider

Winter 2012

retty Ugly, LLC is releasing a new Uglydoll—Ghosty—in Clip, Little Ugly, Classic, and Two-Foot sizes. Ghosty has fear issues. He’s afraid of all kinds of things and will need help to get through it all. It’s really scary stuff: What if my bread turns to toast? What happens when it’s time to change a light bulb? What if I follow my heart, ignore others who doubt me, and work night and day to make my dreams come true? His fears and your fears aren’t much different. That last one, you can help him through that, as you obviously already know how that one goes.

rom the PBS Kids’ series starring the voice of comedian Martin Short, comes The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! Tricks and Treats, a spooky new Halloween adventure for preschoolers. In the NCircle Entertainment DVD, viewers will meet some eerie creatures, including a coconut crab, spider monkeys, bats, and more. Also to be released this year is Sid the Science Kid: Halloween Spooky Science Special. In the DVD, Sid and his pals, dressed in costumes for a Halloween party, learn about bats, spiders, cats, and skeletons, plus how to make green, gooey slime.

ooper and his friend Trooper are excited to spend Halloween together in Cooper and Me and the First Halloween. In the book, the mischievous duo have some silly antics in mind. But soon they meet Bella, a cute and confident Morkie, who doesn’t let them get away with their trickery. Bella must stand up for herself and use her magical powers to turn their trick into a treat. The book, illustrated and written by Monique and Alexa Peters, discusses the importance of standing up for yourself, thinking about others, and being a good friend.

Winter 2012

lexander Doll Co. will introduce Halloweenthemed dolls for this Halloween. To premiere will be Bonesy, featuring a skeleton suit and cape, and Apprentice Witch, in an orange gown and hat. Bonesy

The Halloween Insider 4 7

retailer spotlight

b uy co st um es .c om

Add to Cart, If You Dare BuyCostumes.com, a division of BuySeasons, sells costumes for kids, adults, and pets. We talked to Daniel Haight, CEO and president of BuySeasons, about Halloweens 2011 and 2012, last-minute shopping, and more. By Bryan Joiner

Daniel Haight, CEO and president of BuySeasons

ounded in 1999, BuyCostumes.com has grown to carry more than 10,000 costume options. More than 50 percent of its sales comes from Halloween costumes and accessories.

The Halloween Insider: How was Halloween 2011 compared to 2010? Daniel Haight: It was a good Halloween for us. Every year, consumers seem to wait a little longer to make their purchases, but it was strong for us. It was a little bit stronger on the kids’ side year-over-year than the adult side. For the Monday Halloween, there were probably fewer adult celebrations, but our adult business was strong. THI: Does business coming in later work to your advantage or disadvantage? DH: Either way, Internet shoppers are going to be Internet shoppers. I think it makes things more difficult, operationally, for us to handle it, but we have many, many years of experience handling this and are very well-pre-

4 8 The Halloween Insider

pared for it. Compared to our Internet competitors, I think it works to our advantage.

THI: When do you start preparing for Halloween? DH: (laughs) Before the existing Halloween ends, but it depends on the department. Our merchants started the process of ordering for 2012 Halloween in September. They start their planning process based on the current year’s styles and the following year’s styles coming out. Our operational planning starts a little bit right now, but the detailed planning and scheduling will happen in early Q2. That’s when we get into staff planning for our customer service center, for our distribution center, all those types of things.

THI: What were some of the more popular costumes and accessories in 2011? DH: It varied by segment. For kids, we always have popularity with licensed properties. Monster High for little girls was extremely strong and was a Rubie’s license this year. On the boys’ side, Captain America was very strong, Harry Potter continues to be strong, Mario and Sonic were both strong—video game characters continue to do well for us. On the adult side, retro costumes tied to retro TV superheroes were extremely popular. That included He-Man and She-Ra, which were exclusive for BuyCostumes and CostumeExpress this year, and also things like Top Gun and Flashdance. Those surprised me. The other one that surprised me, and probably surprised a lot of other people, was Edward Scissorhands—in particular the sexy Edward

Winter 2012

every year. We were shipping in the neighborhood of 60,000 packages per day at our peak in October, and we certainly have the capacity to do more, so that doesn’t scare me. The only thing that would challenge us is if it came down to the last two days. Then the process of shipping overnight to everybody might become a challenge shipping in to make that economically feasithe neighborhood of ble for both our company and 60,000 packages per day for the consumer.

Scissorhands costume for women. We saw a lot of strength with traditional pirates. Pirates always do well, and 2011 was no different. There are some years where sales for pirates are through the roof, but this one wasn’t quite like that. Vampires were strong again, and zombies were very strong. Across all themes, it We were was the year of the zombie. THI: What trends are you seeing for 2012? DH: We expect a big year in boys’ costumes with the new Spider-Man movie, Marvel’s The Avengers, and other superheroes.

“

THI: Is there anything about this past Halloween or your planning for next Halloween that’s differ—Daniel Haight ent from previous ones? DH: The customer expects an improved user experience THI: How will the Wednesday date online, so we are looking for affect the holiday? DH: I think it’ll be a little stronger than a Monday ways to describe the product better, and to improve Halloween. I think you’ll have some celebrations hap- our sizing capabilities so that they can be confident pening, certainly in the middle of the week for trick- that the product is going to fit them. We want to or-treating. You’ll probably have adult celebrations on improve our images to show different angles so the weekends before and after Halloween, so that we get 360-degree views of the products, so they might extend it a little bit, probably not a lot because know what the back looks like, and add more we’ll be moving into November at that point in time. video as well. All of those things are critical for But we expect it will carry longer than a Monday— the user experience. Since you can’t see it, although we were shipping Saturday in 2011 with touch it, feel it, all those types of things, we try to give them a great experience that delivery on Monday. makes them feel quite comfortable with that THI: Did anything surprise you about this Halloween? purchasing decision. DH: The biggest thing that surprised me was how long the consumers waited. I don’t know if it’s the THI: Is that a response to competition economy, or if it’s a Monday Halloween, but people from pop-up shops? are just waiting longer and longer to part with their DH: It’s somewhat a response to the dollars. They still want to get out there and celebrate pop-up stores, but it’s also a response the season and the holiday, but I think people are just to other online retailers. Online shopvery, very conscious about the timing and when pers have grown to expect more and more capabilities from the online retailer they’re spending their dollars. to help them make purchasing decisions. A lot of it is content, video, and images, and then THI: How do you tackle that? DH: We have no issues with it—our capacity and our making sure you’ve got exemplary customer ability to handle later and later gets better and better service.

at our peak in October, and we certainly have the capacity to do more”

Edward Scissorhands costume for women

Winter 2012

The Halloween Insider 4 9

Directory of Advertisers Rubie’s Costume Co. www.rubies.com pp. 1, 2, 23, 25, 47, 48 Houston Show: Rubie’s: 2519, 2619 Morbid Enterprises: 2518 Secret Wishes: 2819, 2919 Delicious Sexywear: 936 Forum Novelties: 2311

WOWindow Posters! www.wowindows.com p. 31 Houston Show: 1416

Warner Bros. www.warnerbros.com pp. 4, 5

Regent Products Corp. www.regentproducts.com p. 27 Houston Show: 1237

5 0 The Halloween Insider

Rasta Imposta www.rastaimposta.com p. 13 Houston Show: 2937, 3037

Fun World www.fun-world.net/Pages/costumes pp. 6, 7 Houston Show: 1817

Disguise www.disguise.com p. 9 Houston Show: 1901

Zagone Studios www.zagonestudios.com p. 17 Houston Show: 1401

Winter 2012

Boys’ Continued from Page 183 Race Ahead with Life-Like Products

he Lil Smokey Train Set, from Wm. K. Walthers, Inc./Life-Like Products, is a complete and ready-to-run, HO-scale train set. The set includes locomotive and tender, caboose, infrared battery-operated controller, 10 shade trees, 22 curved pieces of track, one detachment track, and eight single straight tracks. The track size is 65 inches by 36 inches. It requires 10 AA batteries (not included). The Smokestack Express Train Set is a fully loaded 75-piece HO-scale train set with an infrared remote control and locomotive with working smokestack, lights, and four sounds. The Smokestack Express train set includes a locomotive and tender, a flatcar, an animal wagon, a caboose, an infrared batteryoperated controller, an operating crossing gate, eight rocks, a railway station and loading platform, 10 evergreen trees, 10 shade trees, 22 pieces of curved track, a detachment track, eight single straight tracks, and two curved switch tracks. The set up track size is 51 inches by 89 inches. It requires eight AA batteries (not included). The Steer ’n Race Road Racing Set’s fast cars race around a figure-eight track. This battery-operated set features audible engine and brake sound effects. It includes two steering wheel controllers with speed control and brake functions, 8.5 feet of squeeze track, and two racers. It requires six AA batteries (not included).

Aeromax Blasts Off to Space

ith Aeromax’s new astronaut-themed toys, kids can pretend to be space explorers. Junior explorers can blast off to indoor or outdoor adventures on the Jr. Space Explorer, an inflatable space shuttle for ages 3 and up. This shuttle boasts genuine looking instrument panels, gauges, a built-in portal view of Earth, and the red and white stars and stripes of the U.S. flag. Designed for a limit of 90 pounds, the shuttle has a 45-inch wingspan and spreads 43-inches in length. With the Astronaut Space Pack, kids ages 5 and up can shoot aliens (or next-door buddies) with a 30-foot blast of water. The space pack holds a liter of water and can shoot water in two directions at once or in a single straight-on stream. The pack has pretend pressure and instrument panels along with adjustable black straps, and can be played with or without water for indoor or outdoor galactic role-playing.

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Jr. Space Explorer and Astronaut Space Pack

FEBRUARY 2012

Obstacles Ahead for Senario’s Zibits

enario introduces a new launch for its Zibits line of two-inch tall R/C robots. Zibits Remote-Controlled Mini-RC Robots have lights, sound effects, and a remote control (or “Z” mote), allowing you to make your Zibit race forward and spin 360 degrees. Zibits are powered by two AAA batteries (not included) and three LR47 button batteries (included). There are more than 70 styles to choose from. The new Wave 3.0 Zibits are available in 12 styles. The Zibits Obstacle Course: The Gauntlet introduces hazards to the Zibits world, including a swinging hammer and a tilting bridge. Zibits Obstacle Course: Action Sets have Zibits dodging a slammer paddle, slipping past a grasping claw, and avoiding a battering fist. Each Action Set can be combined with the Gauntlet or other Action Sets to create the ultimate challenge for the Zibits. Each Action Set includes a limited-edition Zibit Drone available only in that set. Wave 3.0 Zibits

Blast Off with Spin Master’s Bakublasters

he Air Hogs Battle Tracker, from Spin Master, brings physical battle play right into your home. With multiple ways to play you can engage in physical battle between the all-new Saw Blade Heli and an auto-tracking missile turret. Choose between autonomous or manual control as you evade 12 missiles from the turret. Shoot up to seven disks from the Saw Blade and deactivate the turret to claim victory. The remote holds additional ammo for quick reloads and storage. The Air Hogs 1:24th R/C NASCAR features a race-inspired design and has a range of up to 30 feet. Choose from Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Amp Energy or National Guard), Tony Stewart (Office Depot), and Jimmy Johnson’s (Lowe’s) cars, and create your own starting grid. These cars have multiple R/C frequencies. Air Hogs 1:24th R/C NASCAR Crash has come to NASCAR toys for the first time in a fun and fantastical way. Redefining what a toy crash should be, the NASCAR Crash line features cars and haulers that burst open. The product features the sport’s top drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jimmie Johnson, and Tony Stewart, among others. NASCAR Crash Cars are styled like an actual NASCAR race car and actually crash. With multiple different dramatic crash transformations, there are countless ways to wreck. Once you’ve crashed, it’s time to rebuild your car and head back out on the track. Add some speed and skill to make your crashes even more spectacular with the NASCAR Crash Car with Launcher and Ramp. The launcher has multiple settings to blast your NASCAR crash cars straight for speed or into spins and drifts, or aim for the included jump for some high-flying crash action. Get ready to face off and take aim against your opponent with BakuBlasters. For the first time ever, you can blast your opponent in battle with auto-firing Bakudiscs. Each disc reveals an added G-power bonus that can make you the most powerful brawler on the planet. Tech Deck is Spin Master’s fingerboarding brand. With the Triple Set Combo Ramp, you can challenge yourself with three different setups. Start with the basics on the mini ramp, then move to the street setup with a kicker ramp, and stair set with a rail and ledges. Finally, hit the banked wall or the spine on top for pro-level tricks. Go bigger faster with the new Trick Tape included with each fingerboard. Tech Deck Trick Tape helps you pull even bigger fingerboard tricks. The new Trick Tape is made from a rubber-like material that adheres to your fingers without adhesive or glue, and instantly improves your fingerboarding skills.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 281

Boys’ Bossa Nova Expands Mechatars with Exomorphs

ossa Nova Robotics introduces Exomorphs to its Mechatars line of connected toys. Exomorphs are robotic creatures that accompany Mechatars in battle against the Swarm. You control them in command mode by clapping your hands or making any loud noise, and they will take off. Exomorphs also run free in speed mode—just flip a switch and watch them attack all obstacles in their path. In addition to the physical play, each Exomorph comes with an online code that unlocks exclusive content and weapons in the Mechatars free-to-play online game.

Maisto and Bburago Race Ahead

aisto and Bburago race into Toy Fair with a huge selection of new products. Maisto’s ultra-thin Flat Out Racers—Wacky Flats have a 3mm thin body, fast-rolling wheels, and customizable overlays to change their appearance. To use the new Pedal Jammers, press the pedal to activate lights, engine sounds, and shaking. With a third press of the pedal, the car zooms away and stops when it hits an obstacle. The product requires four AA batteries (not included). Maisto’s ARM-ered Attack manually converts from a handheld weapon to a full-function R/C vehicle that fires multiple discs in each configuration. The Squeeze and Go remote-controlled car is made of soft plastic, features an infrared controller with chunky styling, and requires four AAA batteries. Express Lane is a 1:14-scale full-function, radio-control car, made with a lightweight polycarbonate body. It requires six AA batteries and one 9V battery. Glow Riders include an LED torch (with battery included) to make the three-inch cars light up. The die-cast vehicles have a metal body with plastic parts. The Cycle Shop Play Set features ramps, storage, and operating details, including a motorcycle lift and display stand. The set also features a simulated computer station, graphic cut-outs, and a die-cast motorcycle. The Downtown Play Set includes tunnel, ramp, and elevator features; a simulated computer station; a storage unit; custom graphic cut-outs; and one die-cast vehicle. The Marvel Avengers line of three-inch Maisto vehicles features Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye, and Black Widow. The vehicles have a die-cast body or chassis with plastic parts. The Lamborghini Sesto Elemento and the Jaguar XKR-S come to Bburago’s 1:24 Collezione Star line. The 1:24-scale Lotus Evora S IPS is a replica of the car with the linear power of a supercharged V6 and an automatic six-speed gearbox. The Bburago 1:43 Mega Dealer Showroom features four levels and several action features, including an elevator, rotating car wash rollers, and a pair of repair robots. Two 1:43-scale die-cast cars are included. Bburago’s 1:32 Wrist Racers let users charge up the formula car with the controller, then go racing. The infrared controller has a realistic steering wheel with full-function forward, reverse, left, and right control.

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Flat Out Racers

FEBRUARY 2012

Thinkway Rides into Action

hinkway Toys is gearing up for the May release of Marvel’s The Avengers with the introduction of two new themed vehicles. The Avengers Quinjet is an 11-inch electronic vehicle that lights up and features battle and voice sound effects. By using the joystick on the wireless infrared remote control, kids can move the Quinjet forward or spin it. Once a button on the new Avengers Transforming Vehicles is pushed, the vehicles spring into action, revealing hidden weapons and an Avengers figure inside. Iron Man and Hulk styles are also available. Avengers Iron Man Transforming Vehicle

Topps Has Monsuno

he Topps Company has the license to product trading card games based on Monsuno, an epic actionadventure where kids discover, command, and battle creatures with destructive potential. A race to harness the power of Monsuno ensues between a group of heroic kids and the evil forces focused on destroying the Earth. Topps’ Two-Player Starter Pack includes everything two players need to play. There are two versions: Core Tech vs. Ekipse and Core Tech vs. S.T.O.R.M. Each version contains two 33-card decks, a 12-card booster pack, a bonus foil card, and a rules sheet. A booster pack containing 12 cards, including a rare card and a foil card, is also available.

Wild Planet Enters Sonix City

n Wild Planet’s Sonix City, everyday events are brought to life with sounds. Drive your vehicles around the play set, and the special conductive material in the cars and on the circuit-embedded paper board will interact, blending the worlds of technology and play. Every move you make and stop you take will trigger different noises and voices. Hear squealing tires, sirens, alarms, and emergency calls while driving your police car or fire truck. Diesel engines chug and grind, tools clank, and construction workers holler and grumble as you move dirt, demolish old buildings, and operate the giant crane in the construction set. With the airport play set, hear jet engines as they take off, request permission to land from the flight tower, and hail a cab once you’re safely on the ground. Each 3D play set comes with two vehicles, and features more than 100 sound effects. The four different themes—Rescue, Raceway, Construction, and Airport—can be used individually or can be combined to form one giant city. New Spy Gear devices from Wild Planet include an adjustable wrist unit. The Motion Tracker has an LCD display and two motion-activated sensor pods that work through walls and reach up to 75 feet. Night Sight is a hands-free, headmounted infrared night vision scope that switches between long and short range, and allows you to see up to 50 feet in complete darkness. The movement-activated Alarm Pad system allows you to protect your valuables in plain sight with the infrared beam, which activates when an item is removed. Listen in to conversations through walls and up to 75 feet away with the Spy Listener, a dish-shaped directional microphone and ear bud listening device. Grow an alien with Wild Planet’s Test Tube Alien collection. Hatch your Test Tube Alien and watch it grow in a waterfilled tube over the course of 14 days by feeding it “sloog.” As the alien begins to fizz, an LED light will start blinking, meaning the alien is alive. The alien can be kept in the test tube chamber and studied for up to a year, when water levels and light conditions are managed properly.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 283

Boys’ Konami’s Dragons Collide

onami Digital Entertainment, Inc. will introduce the latest Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game products. The Yu-Gi-Oh! Dragons Collide Structure Deck is a ready-to-play 40-card deck that can be played right out of the box, or players can use the cards to create and customize their own deck. Many of these cards work well with cards that can be found in the Order of Chaos and Photon Shockwave booster sets. Dragons Collide also includes many cards that work well in any deck, including Chaos Sorcerer, Lyla, Lightsworn Sorceress, and Call of the Haunted. Players get a second chance at Mega-Packs with the hottest cards from Yu-Gi-Oh! GX in the Ra Yellow Mega-Pack. With 11 cards per pack, there are more chances to pull the cards duelists want. Ra Yellow Mega-Packs still contain all the variant art cards from Legendary Collection 2. Konami will also release Order of Chaos Special Edition and Premium Collection Tins.

Playmates on the Half Shell

laymates Toys introduces a new line of action figures, play sets, vehicles, and role-play items inspired by Nickelodeon’s new CGI-animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. New for Basic Action Figures are the four main turtles: Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo, as well as their sensei Splinter, and friend April O’Neil. On the side of evil, Shredder, The Krang, and Foot Soldier figures join the basic line. Deluxe Power Sound FX Figures deliver battle phrases when kids pull on the activation limb. For a blast from the past, Playmates introduces the RetroCollector Action Figures, which reflect the look of the original TV series from the 1980s. Battle Shell Figures are fully articulated and come with their core ninja weapons, which are stored either on their belt or on their back holster. Secondary weapons can be found by opening each Turtle’s shell. Sewer Spinnin’ Skateboards are compatible with all the Basic Action Figures, and the vehicle includes a ramp and Ninja Battle Boost technology that allows it to perform 10 different tricks. The Rippin’ Rider, the newest turtle motorcycle, comes with chopper front forks, quadruple rear exhaust, and a T-shaped headlight. Missiles, shot with the flick of a finger, help ensure no foot soldier gets close to the new chopper. The new turtle vehicles may meet their match with the foot soldier’s Dragon Cycle, which features a foot soldier figure in the driver’s seat. With the push of a button, the soldier performs a 360-degree flip over the handlebars and lands on its feet. The Shellraiser Deluxe Vehicle has entrances on top, in the front, and on the side of the car, and up to eight basic figures can fit inside. The Secret Sewer Lair Playset stands almost four feet tall, and includes more than 20 features, such as periscopes, a rope swing, an elevator, and lines that can be connected to objects in a kid’s bedroom, allowing turtles to rappel into action. Kids can not only play with turtle figures, but can now be a turtle with the release of Playmates’ Ninja Combat Gear. Each set includes a noise-making weapon, a signature bandana, and two throwing stars. Shellraiser Deluxe Vehicle

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FEBRUARY 2012

Boys’ Toy State Takes Vehicles to a Musical New Level

ear Heads Forest Protector Mech, from Toy State, offers kids construction, action figure play, and lights and sounds. Use your action figure, the “head” in Gear Heads, to unlock sounds and light effects. Trigger the chain saw to cut through the forest, or launch fire extinguishing projectiles with the Forest Protector Mech. The Ripp’s Customs Chevrolet Camaro with Lights & Sound Mod is a motorized car that features light-up speakers and slots for all of the Ripp’s Custom FX, containing vehicle sounds and music. Add a Ripp’s R/C Mod or Ripp’s Drag Race Mod, and Ripp’s Custom Add-Ons accessory packs to your car. Dub Garage presents the Dub Garage Control Freakz, Chrysler 300C (R/C) Gear Heads Forest Protector Mech with full-function radio-controlled driving, realistic vehicle sounds, music, and light-up “turbo drive” mode. The Dub Garage-Blazerz Dub Edition DI7 (Muscle Car) has motorized driving action, custom music, and lights and sounds. Road Rippers offers the new Lightning Rods Dodge Viper with light-up oversized authentic engines, sounds, and tunes, and the Road Rippers Preschool R/C-Bubble Driver R/C Ice Cream Truck. The Cat—Job Site Machine Excavator L&S has working lights, foreman vocals, motorized driving, a machine bucket, and a boom feature. For younger children, there’s the Cat Preschool—Lightning Load Dump Truck with a light-up dump bed, sounds, and music. The 007-British Secret Service R/C Aston Martin DB5 (Goldfinger) has full-function radio-control driving, lights, sounds, lightup hidden weapons, and the signature James Bond theme music.

Test Your Core and Spy with Jakks Pacific

py Net is back for Jakks Pacific, and the company will introduce a variety of new sleuth-related products this year. The company’s existing Spy Net Video Watch has now evolved into the Spy Net Video Watch with Night Vision. Now agents can record photos, up to three hours of audio, and up to 20 minutes of video in complete darkness. For extra secretive capabilities, the Spy Net Stealth Video Glasses record video through the built-in camera in the middle of the frames, and the Spy Net Night Vision Infrared Stealth Binoculars allow amateur agents to see up to 50 feet in complete darkness. Get ready for adventure with Jakks Pacific’s new line of toys based on Monsuno, in which kids discover, command, and battle creatures with the potential for destruction. Boys can unleash the power of their monster with Monsuno Transforming Action Figures, which include a collectible Monsuno core and three game cards. Monsuno Core Combat Two-Packs include two cores, two figures, and six collector’s cards. Jakks’ Monsuno Strike Launcher releases the core with animation-inspired lights, spin, and accuracy. Thrill seekers can reap the ultimate spinning action on the battlefield with the Monsuno Auto Strike Multi-Launcher, which fires five cores with activated lights. For head-to-head battle, the Monsuno Launch Zone Combat Set houses the competition between two monsters, as does the Monsuno Strike Sector Combat Set, which is travel-friendly and can bring the competition anywhere.

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FEBRUARY 2012

Bachmann Trains Rides the Rails

earing a familiar cap and armed with his trusty snowplow, Large Scale Thomas hauls two festively decorated cars to deliver big winter fun to one and all. Bachmann Trains’ new Large Scale Thomas’ Christmas Delivery ready-to-run electric train set comes complete with Thomas the Tank Engine (with hat, snowplow, and moving eyes), cargo car, coach, track, speed controller, power pack, and DVD-format video instructions. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus has partnered with Bachmann Trains to offer the excitement of “The Greatest Show On Earth” as it travels by rail with two vintage ready-to-run electric train sets. The G-Scale train set comes complete with a 4-6-0 steam locomotive (with operating headlight, smoke, and speed-synchronized sound), a coal tender, a performers’ car, an elephant stock car, a flat car with a lion in cage wagon and a tiger in cage wagon, over eight feet by four feet of track, and DVD-format video instructions. Bachmann’s HO-scale Ringmaster train set includes a 0-6-0 steam locomotive and tender with operating headlight, three cars, body-mounted E-Z Mate couplers, and 47 inches by 38 inches oval of snap-fit E-Z Track. Both sets include a power pack and speed controller, plus an illustrated instruction manual.

Large Scale Thomas’ Christmas Delivery

Hasbro’s Got Boys Covered

asbro adds a number of Nerf products to its spring lineup. The Vortex Lumitron glows in the dark. The pump-action blaster includes a 10-disc clip and 10 glow discs, so kids can keep an eye on their shot, even in the dark. The Tactical Rail System is compatible with most Vortex and N-Strike Mission Kit accessories. The Nerf N-Strike Rayven Blaster is a motorized, semi-automatic dart blaster with firefly-inspired styling that comes with an 18-dart tech clip, which charges 18 glow-in-the-dark darts at a time. Nerf introduces three new offerings from its Super Soaker line. The Lightning Storm Water Blaster features powersoak technology with a range of 25 feet. This new Super Soaker is the only blaster that comes with a 35-ounce capacity clip, which is interchangeable with other items in the line for quick refills. The Super Soaker Electrostorm Water Blaster, recommended for ages 6 and up, requires no pumping thanks to the motorized blaster, which holds 2.6 ounces of water. The Microburst Blaster features pump-to-fire action. Kids simply slide the pump forward to load with water, and pull back to blast. The Soaker holds 20 ounces of water. Hasbro debuts a Beyblade Extreme Top System Halfpipe Battle Set this spring. With the set, fans can enjoy a stealth battle straight out of the box. The set includes two discreet Stealth Battler tops, one half-pipe Beystadium, and two ripcord launchers. Each set also includes two collector cards that may be used to battle other Beybladers at www.BeybladeBattles.com. Kids can mix it up with the Beyblade Extreme Top System Stealth Battler Top Assortment. Each Stealth Battler top boasts a weapon attack that deploys during Beyblade battle for higher stakes and more intense action. Each top comes complete with a ripcord launcher. Each pack also includes a collector‘s card that may be used to battle other Beybladers online at www.BeybladeBattles.com.

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK •

287

Boys’ WowWee’s Got Two Sides to Ride

owWee’s new Flip Force line includes vehicles that can ride on two sides. There are four vehicle styles available: Rod to Racer, Destruction to Construction, Off-Road to Off-World, and On Patrol to Ready to Roll. Play sets are also available. Transform your cars and propel them to new heights with the Flip & Fire Launcher. The bi-level Super-Charged and Turbo-Charged play sets each come with one vehicle and transform for two styles. Just lift the handle or turn the knob to unfold new adventures. A Carry Case is also available. Just flip the case over and the vehicles will flip too. Monster Marbles is a collectible toy line complete with official games, as well as options for creative play. Monster Marbles come in one, two, and three packs, which are all blind purchases so kids never know what styles they will get. There are 12 basic styles and more than 40 variations available. The Carry Case and Collector’s Tin each come with uniquely styled Monster Marbles to add to the collection. Games include Long Shot, Monster Bash, Monster Shuffle, and Target Practice.

Launch, Blast, and Dive with PrimeTime

ew Max Liquidator water blasters are at the heart of PrimeTime Toys’ plans for this year. The HydroBlaster is a compact blaster that measures 10 inches long and can send water up to 35 feet. The HydroBlaster Max is a 20-inch shooter that blasts water up to 35 feet. The HydroBlaster Pro measures 15 inches and can also send water up to 35 feet. The Marine Mine Target Shot is a floating mine that sharpshooters can sink by filling it with water. PrimeTime’s Seven Piece Pool Party Pack includes a Jai Alai set, Giant Splash Football, Splash Fling, Splash Football, and a Splash Bomb, all in one mesh bag. PrimeTime’s 40-piece Sunken Treasure dive set is designed to rest on the bottom of the pool for treasure-hunting fun. Divers can also try and beat the clock of the new Marine Mine Dive Bombs, which are brightly colored bombs that must be deactivated underwater and then brought back to the surface. With the water-resistant Sea Sounds Voice Changer, kids can record whatever message they choose, and then bring the device underwater to play it out loud as the acoustics transform into three playback modes. PrimeTime’s Silly Sprinkler is a handheld toy that aims to keep kids cool and entertained, without batteries or a garden hose. To activate the water flow, just pump, press, and spray. New to the company’s Dart Zone product line, the Quickfire Powerstrike is a motorized fly-wheel shooter that sends darts flying with impressive accuracy. The foam darts fly in groups of 24 in just a matter of seconds. Remove the cap on the launch cylinder of the Big Jump Launcher and, with the flick of the wrist, watch the skydiver soar and then float to the ground with a real parachute.

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Quickfire Powerstrike

FEBRUARY 2012

GreenLight Goes to the Movies

reenLight Collectibles is collaborating with multiple proprieties in 2012, offering die-cast in entertainment and movie product themes. As the third release in the franchise Men in Black (MIB) hits movie theaters Memorial Day weekend, GreenLight will offer 1:24-scale replicas of vehicles from the movie. GreenLight is also creating vehicle replicas for other movies and TV shows such as Dukes of Hazard, Bullitt, NCIS, 2Fast 2Furious, and Bewitched. GreenLight is ready to introduce NASCAR and Daytona 500 authentic Pace Cars and Tribute cars, and 1:18-scale replicas from the IZOD IndyCar Series. GreenLight has tooled the 1:18 2012 Brand New IndyCar Dallara chassis. The scaled models will feature authentic graphics, real rubber tires, and a full die-cast metal body and chassis. GreenLight teams up with Car Town to create social media game-inspired toy replicas. Car Town is a Facebook game where players buy, restore, and race cars. The models within the Car Town release will replicate actual vehicles that appear in the Facebook game and mobile app. Each Car Town toy replica will feature the game’s cartoon characteristics, and will include an added pull-back motor. GreenLight introduces its first DIY product line, Motobuildz 3-Dimensional Foam Paper Model Kits, for those at a beginner skill level. The all-in-one kit includes detailed sheets of pop-out pieces so there is no paint or glue required. Each vehicle kit includes a pullback motor to install. The assembled cars are available in a variety of muscle car models, such as 1:18-scale Dukes of Hazard Corvettes, Camaros, and Mustangs, as well as heavy duty trucks.

(’79-’85) ’69 Dodge Charger

Tomy Expands to New Heights

omy expands its Chuggington product lines based on Ludorum’s animated series. The Chuggington Die-Cast Railway will offer new die-cast engines and play sets, and will debut a new track system that enables fans to build track layouts vertically by providing the stability required to achieve tall, spiraling layouts. One Chuggington diecast set will be more than three feet tall. The Chuggington Wooden Railway system adds more characters to its lineup of engines, as well as feature-packed starter train sets, buildings, and tunnels. All are made with high-quality wood construction, and are compatible with other major wooden railway toys. Tomy expands its line of Dinosaur Train toys, based on The Jim Henson Company’s animated PBS series. Extreme InterAction Figures will incorporate all the features of the original InterAction Figures, including the ability to respond to other characters in the line with more than 50 dino sounds and phrases. In addition, these Extreme InterAction Figures actually launch into action. Mr. Quetzalcoatlus’ wings flap, Mayor Kosmoceratops sits back on his haunches, and Alvin lunges forward. Arnie Argentinosaurus is bigger than all of his other friends, and his movements are kid-inspired. By wearing a wristband, kids signal Arnie’s movements as he walks, rears up on his legs, and even stomps forward, all while interacting with more than 80 dino sounds and phrases. Tomy will introduce a new line of toys that offers remote-control play, featuring characters from Nintendo’s Mario Kart Wii video game. Key items include Mario Kart Wii Pullback Racers; Mario Kart Wii Q-Steer remote-control vehicles, single cars with spin-out tires, and full-function remote-control racing action; and the Mario Kart Wii Battle Set, which allows fans to re-create the Mario Kart Wii video game in real life with interactive battle play. Tomy will also debut a comprehensive range of John Deere items, including educational preschool products, R/C vehicles, and die-cast farm and construction replicas.

Chuggington Die-Cast Railway

FEBRUARY 2012

THE TOY BOOK • 289

CES 2012:

Tech Playground for the BIG Kids

by Reyne Rice, trend expert for the toys and games industries

he 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) had another record-breaking year, representing the largest show in CES’s 44-year history, with more than 3,100 exhibitors. The 153,000 professional attendees included more than 34,000 international visitors, and the convention show floor expanded to measure 1.86 million net square feet, which is more than 37 football fields filled with consumer technology innovations. Seriously, that is a lot of walking! According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the U.S. consumer electronics industry is forecast to increase by 3.7 percent this year, exceeding $202 billion. Global spending on consumer technology devices will surpass $1 trillion this year. Keynote speakers and special Tech Zones covered diverse industries, spanning in-vehicle technology, cameras and digital imaging, digital health, entertainment, mobile and wireless devices, interactive home products, audio and music tech, gaming, and a new section focused on robotics. Two arenas directly affecting families focused on Kids At Play and Mommy Tech, which were a part of the Living in Digital Times Lifestyle Zone.

Translating Technology to Kid-Friendly Tools From multi-touch screens and built-in accelerometers to voice-activated features and seamless wireless mobility, kids expect that these new tech features will be included in their devices and toy products. By now, everyone has probably seen the YouTube video of the toddler looking at a glossy French print fashion magazine and trying to swipe the pages to activate them. She thought the magazine was broken, since she expected the pages to be as interactive as the digital magazines that she saw on her parents’ tablet computers. Kids’ expectations for touch, swipe, pinch, and zoom interfaces are a real effect of the fast-moving world of technological advancements. The trickle-down effect is no longer on an 18-month cycle, so toy manufacturers need to stay further ahead of the technology curve than ever before.

Smartphones and Tablets for iTots to iTeens Kids are acquiring digital devices earlier. As their parents

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Apps and “appcessories” were the buzz of the 2012 CES show. Throughout 2011, 29 billion apps were downloaded, with app sales surpassing $5.2 billion dollars. That number is expected to increase this year to over $15 billion. By 2014, experts expect to see the number grow exponentially to $185 billion in sales.

and older siblings trade up for the latest technology devices, younger family members are experiencing the pass-back effect of receiving older technology devices as their own entertainment tools. Families are also beginning to experience passback-and-forth technology sharing, as families invest in iPads, tablets, smartphones, and other devices, where the intent is for the devices to be used by the entire family. This shared technology function is driving early adoption for the youngest users, since they are encouraged to play with these new tools as a shared interactive experience. Kids and parents are learning together, and more often than not, the kids are teaching the parents about the newest apps. At least eight of the tablet computers launched at CES were targeted specifically to kids. Nearly all of these devices run on Android operating systems, and have sophisticated applications and learning tools built in. The content is developmentally appropriate for kids, and includes multi-skill and multi-level interactive games, as well as touch-sensitive eBooks, allowing for the youngest of consumers to grow with the content as they become more proficient. Content is pre-loaded onto the devices,

FEBRUARY 2012

to consumers’ desires to access their favorite movies, TV and cable shows, photos, videos, social networks, and more, across all of their devices, at their convenience. Industry stake-holders in entertainment and communications are all working toward solutions to meet this demand, and many of these new services will be launched throughout this year, into your living room, and on mobile devices. With most consumer households owning more than 25 technology devices, gaining access to the content across all of the devices is becoming more important to organize a family’s life.

New Learning Platforms for the Whole Family Launched at CES, Sakar’s Hello Kitty seven-inch tablet runs on an Android 2.3 operating system.

and the majority of these tablets will be available by the fourth quarter of this year, priced at $250 or less. The overwhelming success of the LeapPad Explorer in the fourth quarter of 2011 revealed that parents are willing to spend the money for a device that will engage and educate their children.

The TV as the Family Entertainment Hub With more than eight million units sold in the first 60 days, Microsoft’s Xbox Kinect was the fastest-selling consumer electronics device ever to receive such wide-spread adoption. This signals that families are playing together, and embracing this new technology model. At CES, Xbox Kinect demonstrated new voice, gesture, and facial controls. The controls allow consumers to activate the device; easily search libraries of content, including movies, music, photos, and social media sites; and intuitively move between these functions, all with a voice command or a swipe of the hand (in the air—no more fumbling with a remote). With this remote-free identification technology, a Kinect device can now recognize individuals, offering a personalized viewing experience for each family member. Among other tools and handheld devices launched and demonstrated at the show, Sony’s PlayStation Vita handheld device offers a new gaming platform and a rollerball beneath the screen for a new, tactile gaming experience.

The Cloud: The Newest Option for Content Storage No longer stored on just a home PC or on a hard drive in the office, consumers and mobile families are shifting to store content in the cloud, and access it from anywhere. During CES’s Entertainment Matters and Digital Hollywood sessions, studio executives and wireless communication mavens referred

FEBRUARY 2012

Nintendo will launch Wii U this year, and Apple recently introduced iTunes U and an iBooks 2 app. Along with YouTube University and Khan Academy, these new lifelong learning options are bringing video learning to the living room, and interactive textbooks and lectures to the masses. With all these options, along with more than half a million apps in the Apple App Store and hundreds of thousands of Android, Blackberry, and other apps, there is a wide variety of content to keep kids and families occupied with digital products. In a new study called “iLearn,” Carly Shuler of the Joan Ganz Cooney Center reviews the current state of children’s educational apps, which points to the myriad ways and tools that the youngest learners are accessing and incorporating digital technology into their everyday lives. By shifting their digital media consumption to more mobile apps and games, a child’s share of day that is left for playing with offline toys and games is more limited. Offline play needs to be just as compelling to attract a young child’s attention and a share of their parent’s wallet. CES 2012 was just as revealing as a tech playground for adults as it was for the youngest consumers of technology, our kids and our core target market. We know that the pass-backand-forth effect of technology is expanding, and young consumers are actively and enthusiastically engaged in this new digital world. As manufacturers, marketers, and retailers to these young consumers, staying on top of technology options is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity, since it is touching the lives of families and children daily, for family connections, communications, education, and entertainment. So go play with the newest technology, or better yet, hand it to a child, and ask them to teach you how to play with it. ■ Reyne Rice is a seasoned industry professional with 30 years of experience in marketing, researching, and analyzing the toy industry and the youth marketplace. She advises broadcast and print media on the hottest trends in toys, games, technology, entertainment, and licensing as it affects the youth marketplace.

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Making Toy Safety an Issue Every Manufacturer Can Understand by Ashlee Breitner, group leader, NSF International Consumer Product Safety Program

hough toy safety is top of mind year-round, holiday seasons inevitably ramp up attention about the issue—for both consumers and manufacturers. In an effort to ease consumer worries, the federal government took steps last year to further ensure the safety of children’s products. In October, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) was amended regarding third-party testing of products. With the industry’s regulations regularly evolving, it can be difficult for toy manufacturers to stay on top of the changes while also running a successful business. The new regulations, impacting manufacturers of children’s products, are based on the regulations set three years ago. In 2008, the toy industry saw some of the most sweeping safety changes through the passage of the CPSIA. The act included 41 references to children’s products, mandated that all children’s products meet strict lead limits, introduced the idea of mandatory third-party testing, and required that children’s products would soon need to bear permanent tracking labels. The regulations were again amended in October 2011 when the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) adopted new rules related to third-party testing and certification for children’s products. Although many manufacturers already use third-party testing facilities or their own “firewalled” lab, this most recent legislation makes periodic thirdparty testing mandatory. To help manufacturers understand

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the most recent changes, below are some highlights of the new requirements passed in October.

Periodic Testing Even after a product has been tested and certified according to CPSC requirements, the certification isn’t valid forever. As part of the compliance requirements, every toy must be re-tested on a periodic basis to ensure it complies with CPSC requirements. This testing frequency depends upon the production-testing program the manufacturer has put into place. Additionally, if any component of a product changes—from design and manufacturing to the source of the component parts—manufacturers need to re-test and re-certify to demonstrate that the product is in compliance with the CPSIA regulations. The CPSC is working with industry members to evaluate what would be most effective for small batch manufacturers, but will still ensure safety and compliance with the regulations. These new requirements for small batch manufacturers will be phased in over time as they are further evaluated by the CPSC. For small to mid-sized manufacturers, it can be difficult to keep track of the different requirements for testing— building and housing a “firewalled” testing facility doesn’t make sense from a financial or operational standpoint. In these instances, outside third-party testing facilities provide a tremendous service because their experts know the intricacies of CPSC regulations and re-

quirements, and can counsel manufacturers on exactly when certain products need to be re-tested.

Labeling One of the most recent changes to the CPSIA allows manufacturers to bear a label that reads, “Meets CPSC Safety Requirements.” This voluntary label offers a visual cue for consumers as a reassurance that the product has undergone third-party testing, and is compliant with the legislation. The CPSC also has existing mandatory labeling requirements that manufacturers should be aware of. The labeling requirements passed in August 2010 mandate that tracking labels for children’s products include the manufacturer’s name, location of the production facility, production date, and cohort

Continued on page 294 FEBRUARY 2012

Raising

the Bar

Th e Man ufa ctu rer- Sales Representative Relationship

Why Transparency and Clarity Make Good Business Sense for Everyone by Joseph J. Siprut, founder of Siprut PC

onsider the following scenario: You are an outside sales representative for a manufacturer. Your contract with the manufacturer states that you will be paid a commission on all sales for a specified geographical territory for as long as the contract is in effect. You spend three years (and substantial resources out of your own pocket) developing a relationship with a major prospective customer, and finally succeed. On the eve of the customer’s first big order, the manufacturer congratulates you on your fine work, gives you a hearty pat on the back, and fires you. Then, the manufacturer claims that because the contract is now terminated, you have no right to commissions on that customer’s sales. Is the manufacturer right? Do you have any remedy? Scenario two: You are the manufacturer. You have an outside sales representative for a defined sales territory, and a major prospect (within that territory) calls you—not the sales representative— directly based on your relationship with that prospect. The prospect becomes a substantial customer, and places huge amounts of orders. The sales representative, however, demands that you pay him a commission on those orders pursuant to his contract, even though he had nothing to do with originating that business. Do you have to pay him?

FEBRUARY 2012

These are important questions, but too often they are questions that neither the manufacturer nor the representative thinks to ask until it is too late—which is to say, until a dispute arises. That is good news for litigators like myself, because those disputes will escalate to lawsuits. But it is not good business for you, and it is a waste of resources.

T h e P r o c u ri n g C a u s e D o c t r i n e One of the most important principles in this context is the “procuring cause rule,” a legal principle or doctrine adopted in many states. Generally, the procuring cause rule allows a salesperson to recover commissions on sales made after the termination of the agency relationship if the salesperson “procured” the sales through his activities prior to the termination of the agency relationship (this is the Illinois formulation of the rule, but formulations in other states are substantially similar). The procuring cause rule is an equitable doctrine designed to protect a salesperson who, although no longer an agent or employee when the sale is made, has done everything necessary to effect the sale. There is an important exception to the rule: The procuring cause rule does not apply if the contract between the parties specifies when commissions are earned. Thus, in the first hypothetical situation,

if the sales representative and manufacturer had no expressed agreement, then even if the manufacturer attempted to terminate the representative before any commissions were earned, the representative could still recover them under the procuring cause doctrine. (Note: the procuring cause doctrine is based upon the procurement of particular sales, not the procurement of customers.) But, because there is a contract between the parties in the first hypothetical, the language of the contract controls and trumps the procuring cause doctrine. As a result, the language of the contract likely defeats any claims by the representative—even though the results seem inequitable. The same rationale applies to the second hypothetical. If there was no expressed agreement between the parties,

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Toy Safety, by Ashlee Breitner

continued from page 292 information, such as batch, run number, or other identifying characteristics. The label must be permanent and affixed to both the product itself as well as the packaging to a practicable extent.

Record Keeping Under the new regulations, toys need to be tested by thirdparty facilities, and manufacturers need to keep diligent records. Toy manufacturers must keep a record of all documents related to the testing and certification in the U.S., in English, for at least five years after the product production or importation ceases. Additionally, these records must be made available to CPSC upon request. These are just the highlights of the major changes enacted by the CPSC’s October vote on toy safety, but it’s certainly not a complete list detailing the nuances of the changes. More information on regulations can be found at NSF.org. As with all

Raising the Bar, by Joseph J. Siprut

continued from page 293 then the representative would not be able to recover commissions on sales to the new customer, because he was not the procuring cause of those sales. But, because the parties have an expressed contract, the language of the contract—and not the procuring cause doctrine—rules. Also, if the language of the parties’ contract states that commissions will be paid on sales within the representative’s territory, without qualifying that the sales have to be procured by the representative, then the representative likely has a claim for those commissions.

S a l e s R e pr e s e nt a t i v e S ta tu t e s In addition to the procuring cause doctrine, many states (though not all) have “Sales Representative Acts,” or statutes. These statutes are powerful arrows in the sales representative quiver. For example, the Illinois Sales Representative Act states, “Commissions that become due after termination shall be paid within 13 days of the date on which such commissions become due. Any provision in any contract between a sales representative and principal purporting to waive any of the provisions of this Act shall be void.” The act goes on to state that failure to comply with this provision creates liability in a civil action “for exemplary damages in an amount which does not exceed three times the amount of

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regulations, however, the law can be complicated and difficult to follow. Manufacturers’ time and attention is often consumed with designing, developing, and manufacturing new products, not translating the latest laws. But if facilities don’t comply with the regulations it can mean lost business and heavy fines. Partnering with an accredited third-party testing facility is one of the easiest ways to ensure products are compliant with the law. Toy safety experts at third-party facilities are excellent resources, not just for testing products, but also for providing information about upcoming changes to existing toy safety laws—so contact an accredited third-party laboratory, get up to speed on the regulations, and ensure every product is compliant with CPSC regulations. ■

Ashlee Breitner is group leader for NSF International’s Consumer Product Safety Program. Her technical expertise in toy safety includes knowledge of international and U.S. toy testing standards and regulatory requirements.

the commissions owed to the sales representative.” Additionally, the representative can also recover attorneys’ fees. None of this necessarily changes the analysis of whether the representative is owed commissions in the first place, which is determined by the procuring cause doctrine and the parties’ contract. But, as a practical matter, the availability of these harsh remedies means that any manufacturer who refuses to pay commissions in a dispute is playing a very dangerous game because the stakes are ultra-high. The way to avoid problems like these is to make your contracts clear so that both parties—the manufacturer and the sales representative—understand precisely when commissions will be paid and when they will not be paid. Clarity and transparency must be embraced and emphasized at the outset of the relationship, so misunderstandings, disputes, and lawsuits can be minimized, if not eliminated. Of course, that is sometimes easier said than done, but it is also one of the ways that a good lawyer can help. ■ Joseph Siprut is an attorney and the founder of Siprut PC (www.siprut.com), a law firm specializing in commercial litigation. Siprut and his firm have handled all manners of business disputes, including claims between outside sales representatives and manufacturers. He can be reached at jsiprut@siprut.com.

FEBRUARY 2012

Marketing

Memo

Using Mobile Email to Drive Relationships and Sales

by Andy Marken, Marken Communications

martphones are becoming extremely popular. There are more than 90 million users in the U.S.—not because people want to make and receive phone calls, but because they “have to” stay in touch with friends and family. More importantly, they “have to” stay in touch with news, social media, and their brands and products. In fact, millennials have grown up with smartphones. They think nothing of sitting in a mall and using their phone to decide which stores they’ll visit. They’re ultra-confident standing in front of a display, checking the company’s website for the best features and values. According to a report by ExactTarget, email marketing drives most purchases in the mobile space with 59 percent, followed by text messages (41 percent), Facebook (30 percent), Twitter (20 percent), and shopping-related apps such as Groupon (15 percent). Studies also show that mobile email sways more decisions than ads or apps. More than half of the ExactTarget smartphone respondents indicated that they had made a purchase because of a mobile marketing email message. Two-thirds of respondents made their purchase at a local retailer, while the other third made their purchase through the phone’s web browser. The growing use of smartphones has shifted the balance of power from retailers to consumers. The key for marketers is to provide the information, quick response code, or coupon to the mobile consumer to fully empower them. Mobile email marketing should be an important part of your social marketing plan since Android phones claim around 700,000 activations a day, and Apple sells 190,000

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iPhone devices a day. Mobile email enables marketers to convince potential purchasers that immediacy, service, support, or attention trumps any savings there might be with a passive alternative. But, as with any marketing effort, the devil is in the details, and delivering the right message to the smartphone user is key.

Starting Right If you’re already testing mobile email marketing opportunities, or want to strengthen your relationship and support of smartphone-enabled consumers, there are some guidelines you should follow: Subject, From lines: The mobile device owner has complete control over whether or not he or she opens the email, and that decision pivots on the subject and “from” lines. Ensure your email marketing messages are consistent and that there is a trusted name in the from line. Avoid using something such as sales@XYZ.com. It’s a complete turnoff and helps phone users filter you out. For your subject line, try to keep your message to 15 characters or less so it is quickly and easily viewable on their device. If you feel that a longer line is necessary, put your best information at the beginning. Format: Most devices can handle HTML email viewing, but it’s best to use text for readability. Even better would be to use the multipurpose Internet mail extensions (MIME) format. This makes the message easily viewable on both mobile and computer systems, allowing either user to view

FEBRUARY 2012

the message. Web analytics will give you an accurate picture about the different types of mobile devices that are used to visit your website. Message: An inbox is a privileged destination, so avoid non-relevant emails. Your objective should be to optimize your open/read rates, not the volume of messages sent. That also means ensuring your message is short and action-packed so readers don’t have to scroll down to get the information they expect. Design: Design is important in your standard email marketing materials, but it’s vital in getting your mobile email opened. Designs outside the screen size or heavy on graphics get deleted no matter how powerful your message might be. Design for optimum viewing by keeping your message between 500-600 pixels. Put links after the main message and use paragraph breaks for easy viewing.

Moving Forward and Out With the basics behind you, work to ensure the mobile recipient is a subscription-based follower. If you’re just starting—and even on an ongoing basis—promote and encourage site visitors and interested parties to subscribe, selectively, to your important announcements. In addition to continually building your readership, here are other points that will improve your messages and their reception, readership, and use. Keep links uncrowded. When you include action links, such as navigation back to your main website, make sure the links stand out. The rest of your message may be inspired prose, but make it fast and easy for the reader to use the link. Remember, a loyal customer is only one click away from leaving. Draw the reader in. Refer to my earlier article on email marketing (in the December/January issue) on how to capture reader interest in the first 15 seconds. You have even less time with a smartphone

FEBRUARY 2012

screen. Your goal is to capture their attention and stimulate them to click. I suggested limiting subject lines to 15 characters because after that the message gets truncated and the best information may be lost forever. Tag images. If your smartphone email message includes images, make sure you have an alternative (alt) tag to describe the image, and keep it short, simple, and sweet. Increasingly, many smartphones can display images correctly, but not all of them, so err on the side of caution. Make a call to action. Smartphone users seldom sit down and read all the information on their device. The screen is small and users are usually on the go, so don’t be subtle or cute. Make certain you have a clear call to action. Put it in the beginning or where it will stand out so they can respond. Understanding the key elements to mobile email marketing helps you deliver messages to people who have invited you into their devices. Once you’re there, you should give them all the tools to make the right, informed decision. It won’t be long before these on-the-go individuals will be ready to embark on an educated, informed relationship with someone in your marketplace. You don’t have to be everywhere to build your relationship with them—just the right place with the message they want. ■

Andy Marken is a marketing and communications consultant with more than 30 years of experience. In addition to consulting with and being a spokesman for major clients, he also speaks on industry subjects, including management, marketing, and consumer relations. He can be reached at andy@markencom.com.

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How to Appeal to Your Market Online by Matthew Warneford, CTO of Dubit Platform

ith digital property-based toys, such as those based on Angry Birds, Moshi Monsters, and Club Penguin, becoming breakout hits this past year, will 2012 be the year when toys and games begin to play nice? This article will explain how to create an online game that makes a difference to your bottom line. First, take a step back and imagine what would happen if there were no costs to make and ship a doll. You could give them away for free—almost overnight you’d have the most popular doll on the planet. While there is no money in free dolls, there’s a huge business in selling accessories, clothes, and beach houses to the millions who snapped up the free doll. That’s the power of the Internet. If it can be digitized it can be duplicated and distributed online for next to nothing. Online, a customer has no marginal cost. Of course, a toy doll can’t be turned into 1s and 0s, but your brand, characters, and story can be captured in an online game. Millions of children can spend countless hours immersed in your brand for free—almost as if it’s a toy shop that sells only your products. While not all the players will purchase a toy, it’s OK because they may invite a friend who does. Of course, free toys, be those online games or offline products, will always be popular. But to make a business out of digital toys requires a shift in thinking. Unlike traditional game design, almost all elements of the game should be designed with a business objective in mind. The three most important objectives are reducing churn, increasing viral growth, and improving reactivation. Of course revenue from subscriptions, micropayments, or toy sales is important, but improving those three key metrics is like compound interest; each user you bring in will bring more users into the game. To drive these three metrics, you need to understand what makes your players tick. They’re not going to tell their friends about your game unless you motivate them to do so. Here are the most common types of players, their motivations, and how these motivations can be used to make your game a success for your business. Nurturers are an obvious archetype that the physical toy industry has been catering to since the invention of the doll. It

Archetypes

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FEBRUARY 2012

Player Archetypes should come as no surprise that young girls and, to a lesser extent, older girls like to care for their toys. An almost perfect digital replication of this is the washing and feeding of an avatar. That’s why Tamagotchis were so popular in the ’90s. But what if your toy isn’t a doll or you want to look beyond the main character? Online, we can allow the child to care for a pet or their house (although a living character is more interesting to a child than even the most amazing house). You can also service other types of players through the nurturing mechanic. What if to wash the avatar the player has to collect all the elements needed for a fun bath (rubber duck, bubble bath, and shampoo)? By rewarding the player with these items for finishing challenges, you’re also satisfying the Achievement archetype, which, as the diagram shows, crosses over the same age and gender range. Combat or fighting may seem like an odd term to be associated with games aimed at young children, but boys (mostly) look for this across all age groups. The game doesn’t have to be violent; slapstick works fine, too. I doubt anybody would classify Angry Birds as a violent game, but its destruction mechanics are a perfect example of age-appropriate violence. A less obvious archetype, Self-Stamper players are identity-driven show-offs who want to make their mark in the game world. They are likely to be older children, often boys. It’s very hard to satisfy this group with a physical toy, so they may not have exhibited this show-off behavior when playing with other toys. If your market consists of boys over age 10, however, they’ll most likely want to show off in your game. This may be achieved by allowing them to dress their avatar in clothing exclusive to players who have reached certain landmarks in the game, or who have bought a number of virtual goods.

Explorers: Confident and curious children driven by quests and challenges. These types were found equally in both boys and girls across all age groups. Social Climbers: Competitive outward children focused on their social position in the virtual worlds they inhabit. Research highlights a slight bias toward boys. Achievers: This group is interested in acquiring and accumulating virtual items and rewards. This group can be male or female, and tends to be younger children. Social: Older boys and girls who want to socialize and chat. Girls become socially engaged sooner than boys. Puzzle Solvers: Interested in solving puzzles and are mostly girls. Collectors: Interested in acquiring and accumulating virtual items and rewards with a perceived value. They are likely to be older children and slightly more girls than boys. Show-Offs: Identity-driven show-offs wanting to make their mark in-world. These types are likely to be older children with a slight bias toward boys. Combat: Interested in death, violence, and destruction. These are likely to be older boys.

How It’s Already Being Done

Power Users: Moshi Monsters drives viral growth by appealing to the Achievement and SoThese types are interested in helping others by sharcial archetypes. Players are encouraged to invite friends to play the game so they ing their knowledge of the virtual world. Research shows a slight bias toward girls but not toward specific can unlock 150 Rox (virtual currency) and the in-game “Friendship Trophy” ages. achievement. WeeWorld appeals to Social types by charging players to open their Nurturers: own chat spaces as a means to drive revenue. Interested in looking after their avatar and pet (if apStardoll, which has 23 million unique visitors each month, appeals to Nurplicable). They’re likely to be younger boys and girls, turers who want to play dress-up and meet friends. The core experience is free plus older girls. and includes a restricted social experience. But to unlock the full nurturing and social experiences, such as a virtual pet and deeper chat options, players have to pay for a premium subscription. Zynga, the creator of social games including Farmville and Mafia Wars, has mastered the art of viral growth. Most players won’t share a game with their friends unless they’re encouraged to do so. In Farmville, players need friends to set up neighboring farms in order to expand their own farm, a goal that appeals to Self-Stamper and Nurturer archetypes.

Winning the Battle The lure of an online game for your toy brand can be quite a pull. While risks exist, research and keeping player motivations at the core of the process can reduce those risks, while feeding into your business model. After all, if you keep kids happy, you’ve at least won the battle, if not the war. ■ Matthew Warneford is CTO of Dubit Platform, and can be reached at matthew.warneford@dubitlimited.com. Dubit Platform is a virtual worlds and social games studio, producing transmedia products that help brands reach young consumers. For more information, and to read more of Warneford’s articles, visit www.dubitplatform.com.

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LIMA’s Good Practices for Complying with Licensors’ Codes of Conduct by Martin Brochstein, senior vice president of industry relations and information, Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA)

uring the past decade, corporate social responsibility (CSR)—which encompasses the conditions under which products are made, as well as the environmental impact of the manufacturing and transportation process—has gained an increasingly prominent seat at the toy product development, manufacturing, and marketing table. But it’s not an easy road to follow for any product marketer that doesn’t do its own manufacturing. No two licensors’ or retailers’ sets of requirements match up precisely, which can lead to a costly and time-consuming collection of paperwork and audits. Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) and BSR, a leader in corporate responsibility for nearly 20 years, released a new guide in November to help the licensing industry promote social and environmental standards among licensors, licensees, agents, suppliers, factories, and retailers. The publication was developed with the help of the Licensing Working Group, consisting of Hasbro, NBC Universal, Time Warner, and The Walt Disney Company, among others. Good Practices for Complying with Licensors’ Social and Environmental Requirements: A Practical Guide for Licensees is a 28-page guide designed to help licensee executives and professionals understand how they might work toward meeting licensors’ requirements related to social and environmental compliance. Even for those not in the licensing community, the same thought process can help guide a supplier through the requirements of major retail customers. The full guide is available as a free download from LIMA at http://www.licensing.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010 /09/LIMA-licensee-guide.pdf. The adapted section of the guide below deals with the licensor’s perspective.

Licensors’ Standards and Expectations for Licensees Licensors’ brand reputation is linked to the working con-

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ditions in factories where licensed goods are manufactured. As a result, licensors have an interest in requiring licensees to uphold social and environmental standards. Many licensors have established codes of conduct, which define principles and requirements that licensees must uphold. These codes of conduct typically also apply to licensees’ subcontractors. In addition, many retailers have established similar requirements.

Overview of Codes of Conduct Codes of conduct are descriptions of expectations of business conduct related to human rights, labor standards, working conditions, occupational health and safety, environmental management, business integrity, and anti-corruption. These codes are generally based on the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and related conventions on core labor standards. Codes of conduct also typically reference local labor laws. Codes of conduct describe the standards that manufacturers are expected to uphold within their facilities. In many cases, licensors also require oversight of compliance by suppliers, subcontractors, and agents. In addition, some codes of conduct specify management systems requirements and continuous improvement principles for achieving responsible social and environmental support, or endorse global standards and/or industry specific codes.

Main Issues and Concerns Widespread instances of substandard working conditions continue to be a challenge for the licensing industry, particularly in the developing world, but also in developed countries. The following issues are known to occur, some more often than others, but note this isn’t an exhaustive list.

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Human Rights and Labor Standards • Child labor and forced labor • Incorrect payment of wages and benefits • Excessive overtime and insufficient rest days • Harassment by supervisors Occupational Health and Safety • Lack of machine guarding (risk of injury) • Substandard chemical management practices (risk of injury and illness) • Fire safety (risk of injury) Environmental Compliance • Missing required permits • Air and water pollution in excess of local legal requirements Business Integrity and Anti-Corruption • Falsification of records • Bribery of factory inspectors These conditions continue to persist in some cases despite the existence of labor laws banning them; adoption by sourcing countries of ILO conventions; inspection by government labor inspectors; more than a decade of factory monitoring by major global brands, retailers, and licensees; and activist attention and media coverage. There are many potential causes for these persistent challenges, including lack of licensor, licensee, and factory knowledge and capabilities; intense pressure on pricing; and systemic issues within each sourcing location. Licensees who can demonstrate that they meet licensors’ social and environmental compliance requirements may benefit from less frequent or less resource-intensive compliance audits and from maintaining and growing business relationships with licensors. In addition, they may avoid negative consequences, such as a reduction or termination of business.

Summary of Expectations for Licensees Licensors expect licensees to have a process by which they assess whether conditions in their manufacturing facilities comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and relevant standards, including licensors’ codes of conduct. In addition, licensees are responsible for ensuring that their suppliers, agents, and subcontractors involved in the production of licensed goods comply as well. In practice, li-

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censees are expected to take actions to monitor and promote compliance in their supply chain.

Guidance on Adopting a Code of Conduct A code of conduct provides clarity to potential and current suppliers, subcontractors, and agents about a licensee’s expectations for social and environmental compliance. Licensees should adopt an industry standard code of conduct, if relevant, or seek to adopt a licensor’s or retailer’s code of conduct. If a review of existing codes of conduct determines that none are suitable for the licensee company, the licensee could create its own code of conduct aligned with the needs of its customers, the standards of its peers, and internationally accepted good practice.

Practical Tips for Licensees • Ask the licensor which standards or industry codes it will accept, and adopt the most relevant one to avoid creating a new code, if possible. • Ask the licensors what a licensee can do to proactively demonstrate compliance. • Review licensors’ and retailers’ programs to identify key themes. For example, some licensors emphasize specific issues, such as environmental permits, more than others. • Review licensors’ and retailers’ implementation requirements to make sure all relevant policies and procedures have been implemented. • Seek clarification if there are differences in the licensors’ or retailers’ codes of conduct. • Assign people, systems, and resources to implement policies and to track compliance with them. • Collaborate with other companies in the licensing industry to avoid recreating the wheel. For example, join a future training session or workshop run by the Licensing Working Group. The Good Practices guide includes resources and references to help you get started, including examples of industry codes of conduct and examples of licensor codes of conduct, from The Walt Disney Company, Hasbro, Mattel, and Time Warner. ■ Marty Brochstein joined LIMA in 2008. Brochstein was a business journalist for more than 20 years, primarily covering the consumer products and retail industries. He spent five years as senior editor of Television Digest and was the founding editor of Consumer Multimedia Report.

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Industry Marketplace

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The Toy Book Volume 28, Number 1 THE TOY BOOK (ISSN-0885-3991) is published bi-monthly by Adventure Publishing Group, Inc.® Editorial and advertising offices are located at 307 Seventh Ave., Room 1601, New York, NY 10001, Phone (212) 575-4510. Periodicals Postage paid at New York and additional mailing offices. Copyright © 2012 Adventure Publishing Group, Inc.® All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in U.S.A. Subscription rates: $48 one year, foreign $200. The Toy Book is a trademark of Adventure Publishing Group, Inc.® Registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Toy Book, c/o Adventure Publishing Group, PO Box 47703 Plymouth, MN 55447. Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by editors, contributing writers, or solicited or unsolicited documents are not necessarily those of the management of The Toy Book.

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Advertiser Index Activision.............................................................................................308 Adora Doll ...........................................................................................113 Adventure Publishing Group...............................................................184 Aero Trading....................................................................................75, 77 ALEX...................................................................................................133 Alphabeasts..........................................................................................123 Amav Enterprises ................................................................................137 American Plastics ............................................................................10, 11 ASTRA................................................................................................S19 Aurora World .......................................................................................115 Bachmann ............................................................................................179 Bananagrams .......................................................................................153 Blue Box Toys .....................................................................................217 Blue Orange Games.............................................................................157 Calego International ............................................................................121 Carrera .............................................................................................20, 21 Cloud B................................................................................................109 CollectA...............................................................................................181 Cosmic Karma Games.........................................................................173 Delta Childrens Products.................................................................46, 47 Demdaco..........................................................................................18, 19 Douglas Company .................................................................................S3 Dr. Cool Science....................................................................................S9 Dragon-i Toys ......................................................................................117 Eastcolight .......................................................................................16, 17 Eat to Win............................................................................................S27 Elf Magic...............................................................................................S2 Floppets ...............................................................................................S25 Folkmanis ............................................................................................8, 9 Forum Publishing ................................................................................304 Fou Fou Dog .........................................................................................S5 FremantleMedia...............................................................................31, 33 Funosophy ...........................................................................................285 George & Co........................................................................................175 Good Link International ........................................................................87 Hapé International .................................................................................S7 Hasbro..................................................................................................1, 2 Imperial Toy ....................................................................................37, 39 Innovation First .....................................................................................15 Interactive Toy Concepts .....................................................................101 ITMA ...................................................................................................299 Jada Toys .............................................................................................107 Jonny Hawkins Cartoons.....................................................................304 Kids Preferred ......................................................................................111 Kids Wish Network .............................................................................301 LaQ ......................................................................................................142 Laser Pegs....................................................................................130, 131 Maisto........................................................................................12, 13, 67 Matryoshka Madness...........................................................................S17 MEGA Brands .......................................................................................57 Merch Source ..................................................................................59, 83 Mindware.............................................................................................177 MOGO.................................................................................................S21

Industry Marketplace

Neat-Oh! International.........................................................................145 NKOK..................................................................................................6, 7 NPD .....................................................................................................295 Nukotoys ................................................................................................99 Ollie’s Bargain Outlet ..........................................................................304 Pacific Play Tents.................................................................................139 Pajaggle................................................................................................174 Piggy Wiggies ......................................................................................119 PlaSmart.....................................................................................23, 25, 27 Play Visions ...........................................................................................93 Playtime Sales & Marketing................................................................304 Pressman Toy .......................................................................................171 Prince Lionheart...................................................................................221 QA International ..................................................................................S11 R&R Games .........................................................................................169 Regal Logistics ....................................................................................S23 Rockboard ..............................................................................................97 Round 2 LLC .......................................................................................183 Saban......................................................................................................85 Safari Ltd. ............................................................................................S13 Sakar International.................................................................................69 Senario ...................................................................................................73 Seven Towns/Rubiks............................................................................105 Shainsware ...........................................................................................151 Silverlit Toy .........................................................................................103 Smart/Tangoes......................................................................................167 Soma International...............................................................................147 Sophia’s Heritage.................................................................................S15 Sun-Mate Corporation ...........................................................................91 TCG .........................................................................................4, 5, 51, 53 Tech 4 Kids ............................................................................................41 Techno Source........................................................................................65 Thames & Kosmos ..............................................................................141 The Bridge Direct ..................................................................................81 The Haywire Group .............................................................................159 The Orb Factory...................................................................................143 The Wish Factory.................................................................................135 Tonner Toys .........................................................................................127 Toy Industry Association .....................................................................279 Transmonde Marketing Group LTD. ...................................................304 Ugly Doll .............................................................................................125 UL-STR................................................................................................149 Uncle Milton ..........................................................................................79 Underground Toys ...........................................................................61, 63 University Games ................................................................................155 Verdes Innovations...............................................................................161 Wiggity Bang Games...........................................................................163 Wiggles 3D ..........................................................................................165 Winfat ..........................................................................................215, 223 Winning Moves....................................................................................170 Yoha International..................................................................................55 Yomega ................................................................................................307 Zing Toys ...............................................................................................43

THE AD INDEX IS PUBLISHED AS A COURTESY. WHILE EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO BE ACCURATE, LATE ADDITIONS AND CHANGES IN LAYOUT MAY RESULT IN ERRORS OR OMISSIONS.

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Flashback: February 1992 1. KIDdesigns introduces a line of Girl Talk-licensed electronics for preteens. 2. Cardinal offers a Beverly Hills 90210 Game. 3. The complete line of Eureeka’s Castle stuffed dolls from Direct Connect International. 4. Milton Bradley introduces Gotta Love Me! game, based on Disney’s Dinosaurs. 5. Totally Hair Ken, from Mattel, comes equipped with his own hair gel. 6. A host of The Baby-Sitters Club-licensed products releases. 7. Family Matters’ Steve Urkel is seen on many products.

2. 6.

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7. FEBRUARY 2012