August Spotlight on Toy Association Members

August 9, 2018 | This month’s Toy Association member spotlight features Build-A-Bear Workshop, Jakks Pacific, Learning Resources, Moose Toys, PhatMojo, and Pressman Toy/Goliath Games.

Build-A-Bear Workshop Introduces Kabu, a New Lifestyle Brand for Tweens
Build-A-Bear Workshop recently launched Kabu, the company’s new lifestyle brand, which is inspired by “kawaii”-style art and the classic characters of the Build-A-Bear family. The Kabu brand comes to life in a new graphic novel and related furry friends. Fans can explore the world of Kabu by making their own furry friends — complete with colorful outfits — and through the mobile gaming app called Kabu Pop Party Quest. Other Kabu lifestyle items for kids and tweens include leggings, “squishies,” a Blind Bag Cub Condo, a shimmery pouch, and a pom lip-gloss keychain, with additional collection items planned for the future.

Jakks Pacific Launches FanHeads
Jakks Pacific entered the sports arena by kicking off the football season with the launch of FanHeads, a new and innovative product that offers football fans the unique opportunity to wear a realistic and lightweight NFL or college football helmet.Easy to assemble and adjustable to fit kids to adults, the helmets are a great addition to any game, tailgate, or party with family.

Learning Resources Offers Ultimate Toymaker Experience to Kids with Contest; Partners with Popular YouTubers to Spread the Word
Learning Resources is asking kid fans to step into the laboratory to create new creatures for the next series of Beaker Creatures collectibles with its “Create a Creature Contest.” Kid scientists of all ages are invited to design their own Beaker Creatures collectible through August 15. Ten finalists will win $250 Beaker Creatures prize packs, and one grand prize winner will have a one-of-a-kind toymaking experience of working with the Learning Resources team to turn his or her design into a real toy. Learning Resources is partnering with YouTube stars, Twin Toys Access and David’s TV. The two channels will each document their own creature creations and contest entries on their YouTube channels.

Moose Toys and Epic Games Partner to Launch Fortnite Battle Royale Collection
Moose Toys announced a new partnership with Epic Games to create a wide range of Fortnite mini collectibles including Fortnite branded figures 3 inches and under to be unveiled in December. The Fortnite Battle Royale Collection will give fans the opportunity to collect a huge roster of characters and miniature scale fort building sets. Additional Fortnite lines from Moose Toys, ranging from micro-collectibles to battle playsets, will hit stores in 2019.

PhatMojo Appointed Master North American Toy Partner for Preschool Brand, Llama Llama
PhatMojo, the Los Angeles-based toy and collectibles company, has been named master North American toy partner for preschool brand and children’s book franchise, Llama Llama. PhatMojo will create a line of Llama Llama-branded toy products, including figures, play sets, carry cases, plush, and construction activities set to debut in 2019.

Pressman Toy Releases The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley Card Game
Pressman Toy has teamed up with global learning company Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the third installment of The Oregon Trail game series, The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley. Based on the classic PC game, pioneers must gather their supplies and family members as they embark on the voyage from Independence, MO to Willamette Valley. With two to four players, ages 14 and up, The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley will require strategy and luck as players race and search for their fortune in the West.