Remembering Global Toy Expert’s Richard Gottlieb

October 27, 2023 | The Toy Association™ and its members mourn the passing of Richard Gottlieb, founder and CEO of Global Toy Experts. He passed away on Thursday, October 26.

“Richard was truly part of the heart and soul of the toy and play community, having left each of us who knew him better for the experience, having considered his thoughtful perspectives, and constantly witnessing his passion in action,” said Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of The Toy Association. “Richard was relentlessly focused on the overall health of the business of toys, play, and games from the very largest global publicly traded companies to the newest entrepreneur just trying to get their first idea brought to reality. He took great joy in finding fresh ideas and innovative thinking while holding deep respect for the history and traditions of the industry.”

Gottlieb founded his consultancy Global Toy Experts in 1994, where he offered business development consulting, helped manufacturers enter the North American and global markets, and provided intellectual property development and third-party placement to inventors and designers.

In 2010, Gottlieb launched Global Toy News and published his own commentary on the industry and articles from play industry experts on the toy business. He also began producing and co-hosting “The Playground Podcast” in 2019.