Latest Company News & Highlights

May 3, 2024 | Take a look below for a roundup of the latest news and product launches from a variety of companies, including Dan Dee International, Just Play, Mattel, and more.

Dan Dee International Secures Global Master License Agreement with SMOKO
Dan Dee International has signed a global master license agreement with SMOKO, a lifestyle brand known for its unique and quirky designs. This company will create plush, collectible toys, seasonal and gift items, and home décor products inspired by the brand for department stores, mid-tier, and mass-market retailers.

Funko Appoints Cynthia Williams as CEO
Funko, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Cynthia Williams as its CEO, effective May 20, 2024. Williams is also expected to join the Funko Board of Directors on that date. Michael Lunsford will remain the company’s interim CEO until Williams joins the company later this month.

Just Play Unveils Toys Inspired by Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’
Ahead of Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” coming to theaters on June 14, Just Play has released a new line of toys inspired by the animated film. The collection features plush, figures, and collectibles that aim to help kids understand complicated feelings in new ways. The products are available now at major retailers.

LEGO Expands DREAMZzz Collection with 9 New Buildable Sets
To celebrate the second season of the animated series “LEGO DREAMZzz,” The LEGO Group will release nine all-new sets that encourage children to bring their wildest dreams to life. The first half of the new season of the animated series will launch on May 17, while the new products will be available for purchase starting August 1.

Mattel Launches Fisher-Price Little People Collector Harry Potter Sets
In collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, Mattel is heading to Hogwarts with the unveiling of the latest addition to the Little People Collector line — Harry Potter The Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets sets. The sets capture some of the most beloved adventures and characters as 2.5-inch Little People. The next two Harry Potter Little People Collector editions, Prisoner of Azkaban and Goblet of Fire, are set to launch later this year.

Moonbug Entertainment Appoints Ashley Maidy as Managing Director of Consumer Products
Moonbug Entertainment appointed Ashley Maidy as its new managing director of consumer products. With 25 years of experience in the entertainment and gaming industries, Maidy will be responsible for expanding Moonbug’s consumer products business, connecting licensing and retail partners to brands like CoComelon and Blippi. She will report to René Rechtman, founder & CEO of Moonbug Entertainment.

Moose Toys Launches Goo Jit Zu Collection with WWE
Moose Toys will launch a Superstar Heroes of Goo Jit Zu collection in collaboration with World Wresting Entertainment (WWE). The series of stretchy action figures, launching in August, will feature four of WWE’s biggest Superstars — John Cena, Rey Mysterio, Roman Reigns and “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes.

Schleich Launches Family FUNFluencer Program
Schleich has officially launched its family FUNfluencer program, a new initiative that allows fans worldwide to engage in challenges for the chance to win rewards. FUNfluencer missions provide opportunities for individuals to showcase their interaction with Schleich products. These family-friendly tasks offer rewards to participants, such as drawing characters or taking "shelfies" of their Schleich collections. By sharing photos and videos on Instagram and Facebook, families can complete their missions and receive rewards like gift cards and products.

TOMY International Appoints Julie Gwaltney to Vice President of Toys
TOMY International has appointed Julie Gwaltney as vice president of the company’s toy division. Gwaltney has more than 30 years of experience in the toy industry, most recently holding the position of TOMY International’s senior director of toys. Gwaltney will now be responsible for all TOMY International toy brands, including Lamaze, Club Mocchi- Mocchi-, TOMY Games, Big Farm, Monster Treads, John Deere Preschool, and Build-A-Buddy.

Want to be included in a future news roundup? Email The Toy Association’s Maddie Michalik with your company news.