Spotlight on TIA Members

August 30, 2016 | This month’s Toy Industry Association (TIA) “Member Spotlight” includes updates from Crayola, Hasbro, JAKKS Pacific, Nickelodeon, and Spin Master.

Crayola’s New Partnership with Minor League Baseball
Minor League Baseball (MiLB) and Crayola have announced a strategic partnership making Crayola a “Preferred Partner” of Minor League Baseball and a number of its teams. Beginning in 2017, the Minor League Baseball brand will be featured on select Crayola product packaging throughout key retailers. Crayola will aim to appeal to Minor League Baseball's family-centric fan base with its assortment of outdoor products during key retail months. The two brands will also host a Crayola All-Star Experience Sweepstakes and exclusive experiences at select ballparks.

Hasbro CEO Joins Gap Inc. Board of Directors
Brian Goldner, CEO of Hasbro Inc. was recently appointed to Gap Inc.’s board of directors. According to the Wall Street Journal, Goldner was added to the board’s compensation and management development committee in an effort “to turn around operations amid a prolonged sales slump.” “His leadership has enabled Hasbro to emerge as one of the most profitable and forward-thinking companies in the toy and game industry,” Gap board chairman Robert J. Fisher said in a news release. Goldner’s appointment expands Gap’s board to 11 members.

JAKKS Pacific, Inc. Expands Strategic Investor Relations Program
JAKKS Pacific has engaged Liolios Group to lead an expanded strategic investor relations and financial communications program. JAKKS will continue to work with licensing partners as well as develop a growing base of proprietary IP and brands through organic growth and acquisitions as part of a “transformative process” to expand into new market segments and geographies.

Nickelodeon Collaborates with Unique Concept Shop STORY
“Remember When,” an immersive retro experience that celebrates Nickelodeon’s iconic shows and characters from the ’90s, has been unveiled at STORY, a unique concept store in New York City. Open through September 18, the installation takes a nostalgic look back at the decade that gave birth to Rugrats, dial-up Internet and leggings as pants. STORY has teamed up with over 25 brands on items that celebrate the spirit of Nickelodeon from the ’90s.

Spin Master Forges Outdoor Business Segment with Acquisition of Swimways
Spin Master is now a player in the outdoor and sports toy category with the acquisition of pool toy company Swimways. This marks the company’s fifth acquisition since listing its stock on the Toronto Stock Exchange in July 2015. Swimways will operate as a stand-alone subsidiary based in Virginia. The company makes squirt toys, flotation devices and pool décor.

Want to be included in next month’s Member Spotlight? Email kmorency@toyassociation.org with company news and include “Member Spotlight” in the subject line.